In the 30s when most of the 20th century blue laws were written there
was a blurry line between religion, government, labor and society in
general. The fact remains, liquor stores stayed open later than
grocery stores and pharmacies. I remember the new Giant food bragging
about being "open all day on saturday" in the early 50s.
Most mom and pops were only 9-5 monday-friday and maybe till noon on
saturday. Nothing was open on sunday. The excuse mostly heard involved
overtime.