Industrialization spawns the Elder Craftsmen Shop

Research on the Wilmington Senior Center Elder Craftsmen Shop provides the background for this sociological examination of the role of the elder craftsmen shop in our society. The shop is put into historical context by discussing the development of pension plans and the evolution in the means of producing goods. It is argued that, as a social utility, the nonprofit elder craftsmen shop provides a uniquely flexible work situation. It allows for the expression of the work ethic in the framework of retirement.