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U. S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
JAMES J. DAVIS, Secretary

BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS
ETHELBERT STEWARTt Coounissioncr

BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES'!
IT
JO A
BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS/.................. WO. •tLV
M I S C E L L A N E O U S

S E R I E S

HANDBOOK OF
AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS




OCTOBER, 1926

WASHINGTON
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
1926

ACKNOWLEDGMENT
This bulletin was compiled by Estelle M. Stewart of the United States
Department of Labor.

n




CONTENTS
Plage

Introduction________________________________________________________
1-3
3,4
The American Federation of Labor--------------------------------------------------Local unions____________________________________________________
3,4
Local trade-unions__________________________________________
3,4
Federal labor unions-----------------------------------------------------------4
State federations and central labor unions________________________
4,5
Departments----------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- 5-16
Building trades department_________________________________
5,6
Metal trades department-------------------------------------------------------7,8
Railway employees department______________________________
8,9
Union label trades department----------------------------------------------- 9,10
Building trades-------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------- 11-42
Asbestos Workers, International Association of Heat and Frost In­
sulators and--------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11,12
Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterers* International Union of America. 12-15
Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers, International
Association of — -------------------------------------------------------------------- 15-17
Carpenters and Joiners of America, United Brotherhood of_______ 17-21
Electrical Workers, International Brotherhood of_________________ 22-26
Telephone operators’ department____________________________ 25,26
Elevator Constructors, International Union of____________________ 26,27
Engineers, International Union of Steam and Operating___________ 27,28
Granite Cutters' International Association of America, The_______ 28,29
Hod Carriers, Building and Common Laborers* Union of America,
International-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29,30
Lathers’ International Union, Wood, Wire, and Metal_____________ 30-32
Marble, Stone and Slate Polishers, Rubbers and Sawyers, Tile and
Marble Setters’ Helpers and Terrazzo Workers’ Helpers, Interna­
tional Association of----------------------------------------------------------------32,33
Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Brotherhood o f. 33-35
Plasterers and Cement Finishers’ International Association of the
United States and Canada, Operative___________________________ 35-37
Plumbers and Steamfitters of the United States and Canada, United
Association of Journeymen-------------------------------------------------------37,38
Roofers, Damp and Waterproof Workers’ Association, United Slate,
Tile and Composition_________________________________________ 38,39
Steam Shovel and Dredge Men, International Brotherhood of_____ 39,40
Stone Cutters’ Association of North America, Journeymen_________ 40-42
Metals and machinery----------------------------------------------------------------------- 43-64
Automobile, Aircraft and Vehicle Workers of America, United_____ 43,44
Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, International Brother­
hood o f ______________________________________________________44-46
Boilermakers, Iron Shipbuilders and Helpers of America, Interna­
tional Brotherhood of-------------------------------------------------------------- 47,48
Draftsmen’s Unions, International Federation of Technical Engi­
neers, Architects and__________________________________________ 48,49
Engravers* Union, International Metal------------------------------------------49
Firemen and Oilers, International Brotherhood of______________ — 49,50
Foundry Employees, International Brotherhood of_____________ „ __ 50,51
Iron, Steel and Tin Workers of North America, Amalgamated Asso­
ciation of-------------------------------------- ,---------- -. — ___ __________
51
Machinists, International Association of—, ___ ____ ___________ 52-56
Metal Workers of America, Amalgamated-------------------------------------56
Metal Workers’ International Association, Sheet_________ ________ 57-59
Molders* Union of North America. International______ __________ 59-61
Pattern Makers’ League of America_________ ____________ _______ 61,62
Polishers’ International Union, Metal___ _________________ ___ 62,63
Stove Mounters* International Union of North A j p e r i c a , ^ ^ ^ , ^ 63.64
m




IV

CONTENTS
Pag#

Transportation-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 65-95
Agents, American Railway---------------------------------------------------------65
Carmen of America, Brotherhood of Railway-------------------------------- 66,67
Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employees, Brother­
hood of Railway and Steamship----------------------------------------------- 67,68
Conductors, Brotherhood of Dining Car----------------------------------------68,69
Conductors, Order of Sleeping Car----------------------------------------------69
Conductors of America, Order of Railway-------------------------------------70-72
Engineers, Grand International Brotherhood of Locomotive----------- 72,73
Expressmen, Order of Railway----------------------------------------------------73,74
Express Workers, American Federation of----------------------------------74
Firemen and Enginemen, Brotherhood of Locomotive-------------------- 74-76
Maintenance of Way Employees, Brotherhood of-------------------------- 76,77
Porters, Brakemen and Switchmen, Association of Train----------------77,78
Porters, Brotherhood of Sleeping Car------------------------------------------78
Railroad Supervisors of Mechanics, International Association of— 78,79
Railroad Workers, American Federation of----------------------------------- 79,80
Signalmen of America, Brotherhood of Railroad-------------------------- 80,81
Station Employees and Clerks, Brotherhood of Railroad----------------81
Street and Electric Railway Employees of America, Amalgamated
Association of-------------------------------------------------------------------------81,82
Switchmen’s Union of North America------------------------------------------83
Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America, Inter­
national Brotherhood of----------------------------------------------------------83,84
Telegraphers, Order of Railroad_________________________________ 84,85
Track Foremen and Allied Brotherhood of Railway Track Laborers,
American Brotherhood of Railway_____________________________ 85,86
Train Dispatchers, Association, American-------------------------------------86,87
Trainmen, Brotherhood of Railroad____ !_________________________ 87,88
Trainmen, Association of Colored Railway----------------------------------88
Tunnel and Subway Constructors’ International Union of North
America______________________________________________________
89
Yardmasters of America, Railroad----------------------------------------------- 89,90
Yardmasters of North America, Railroad-------------------------------------- 90,91
Engineers’ Beneficial Association of the United States of America,
National Marine-------------------------------------------------------------------- 91,92
Engineers, Ocean Association of Marine_________________________
92
Longshoremen’s Association, International_______________________ 92,93
Masters, Mates and Pilots of America, National Organization____ 93,94
Neptune Association------------------------------------------------------------------94
Seamen’s Union of America, International________________________
95
Mining, oil and lumber-------------------------------------------------------------------- 97-101
Loggers and Lumbermen, Loyal Legion of----------------------------------- 97,98
Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers, International Union of_________ 98,99
Mine Workers of America, United_____________________________ 100,101
Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers of America, International
Association of------------------------------------------------------------------------101
Paper, printing, and bookbinding__________________________________ 103-118
Paper Makers, International Brotherhood of^__________________ 103,104
Pulp, Sulphite and Paper Mill Workers, International Brotherhood
of---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 104,105
Wall Paper Crafts of North America, United_________ - _________105,106
Printing Trades Association, International Allied_______________ 106,107
Bookbinders, International Brotherhood of___________ _________ 107,108
Engravers! Union .of North America, International P.hoto_--_____ 108,109
Lithographers. of.. America, vAmalgajpajted__ ___ w------ — - ________109-111
Pressmen, and. Assistants? Union of .North America, International
P rin tin g^ -^ -^ ^ -*-,,-,-,----------------------------------------------------------111-113
Prtnter^.Pie Stampe£s..and. Engravers’ Union of North America, In­
ternational Plate________________ ___________________________ 113,114
Siderographers, International Association of_____________________
114
Stereotypers and Electrotypers’ Union of North America, Inter­
national---------------- --------------------------------------------------------------114,115
.Typographical .Union of North America, International,._________ 115-118




CONTENTS

V
Page

Clothing_________________________________________________________ 119-131
Boot and Shoe Workers’ Union________________________________ 119,120
Clothing Workers of America, Amalgamated----------------------------- 120,121
Fur Workers’ Union of the United States and Canada, Interna­
tional----------------------------------------------------------------------------------121,122
Garment Workers’ Union, International Ladies’-------------------------- 123,124
Garment Workers of America, United__________________________ 124,125
Glove Workers’ Union of America, International------------------------ 125,126
Hat, Cap, and Millinery Workers’ International Union, Cloth------- 126,127
Hatters of North America, United_____________________________ 127,128
Neckwear Workers_____________________________________________ 128
Shoe Workers’ Protective Union_______________________________ 128,129
Tailors’ Union of America, Journeymen-------------------------------------129-131
Textiles_________________________________________________________ 133-135
Textile Workers of America, United____________________________ 133,134
Full Fashioned Hosiery Workers------------------------------------------134
Federated Textile Union----------------------------------------------------------134,135
Cotton Mule Spinners_____________________________________ 134,135
Lace Operatives, Chartered Society of the Amalgamated---------135
Tapestry Carpet Weavers----------------------------------------------------135
Textile Operatives, American Federation of______________________
135
Food, liquor, and tobacco__________________________________________ 137-145
Bakery and Confectionery Workers’ International Union of Amer­
ica________________________________________________________ 137-139
Brewery, Flour, Cereal, and Soft Drink Workers of America, Inter­
national Union of United____________________________________ 139,140
Food Workers of America, Amalgamated________ 1---------------------140,141
Hotel and Restaurant Employees’ International Alliance and Bar­
tenders’ International League of America____________________ 141,142
Meat Cutters and Butcher Workmen of North America, Amal­
gamated____________________________________________________142,143
Cigar Makers’ International Union_____________________________ 143,144
Tobacco Workers, Amalgamated_________________________________
144
Tobacco Workers’ International Union_________________________ 144,145
Glass, clay, and stone_____________________________________________147-155
Brick and Clay Workers of America, United------------------------------- 147,148
Glass Bottle Blowers’ Association of the United States and Canada.
148
Glass Cutters and Flatteners’ Association of America ( Inc.), Window.
149
Glass Cutters and Flatteners’ Protective Association of America,
Window___________________________________________________ 149,150
Glass Cutters* League of America, Window_______________________
150
Glass Workers, National Window______________________________ 150,151
Glass Workers’ Union of North America, American Flint-------------151,152
Paving Cutters’ Union of the United States of America and Canada,
International----------------------------------------------------------------------- 152,153
Potters, National Brotherhood of Operative-------------------------------153,154
Quarry Workers’ International Union of North America________ 154,155
Leather__________________________________________________________ ! 157-159
Leather Workers’ International Union of America, United_______ 157,158
Leather Workers of America, International Union of United_______
158
Pocketbook Workers’ Union, International_____________________ 158,159
Woodworking____________________________________________________ 161-164
Carvers* Association of North America, International Wood______ 161,162
Coopers* International Union of North America_________________ 162,163
Piano, Organ, and Musical Instrument Workers, International
Union o f _____________________________________________________ 163
Upholsterers* International Union of North America___________ 163,164
Public service____________________________________________________165-179
Federal Employees, National Federation of_____________________ 165,166
Fire Fighters, International Association of_____________________ 166,167
Pavers, Rammermen, Flaggers, Bridge, and Stone Curb Setters,
International Union of______________________________________ 167,168
Policewomen, International Association of________________________
168
Teachers, American Federation of______________________________ 168,169




VI

CONTENTS

Public service—Continued.
Paw
United States Post Office______________________________________ 169-179
History of post-office organizations_________________________ 169,170
Postmasters of the United States, National Association of______
171
Postmasters of the United States, National League of District- 171,172
Postmasters’ Association of the United States, Service_________
172
Mail Service, National Council of Supervisory Officials of the
Railway________________________________________________172,173
Mail Association, Railway_________________________________ 173,174
Postal Supervisors, National Association of___________________
.174
Post Office Clerks, National Federation of__________________ 174,175
Post Office Clerks of the United States, The United National
Association o f __________________________________________ 175,176
Letter Carriers, National Association of------------------------------- 176,177
Rural Letter Carriers' Association, National________________ 177,178
Rural Letter Carriers, National Federation of_________________
178
Postal Employees, National Alliance of_____________________ 178,179
Post Office Laborers of the United States, National Associa­
tion o f ___________________________________________________
179
Amusements---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 181-184
Actors and Artistes of America, Associated______________________181,182
Musicians, American Federation of_____________________________ 182,183
Stage Employees and Moving-Picture Machine Operators of the
United States and Canada, International Alliance of Theatrical 183,184
Miscellaneous manufactures----------------------------------------------------------- 185-190
Broom and Whisk Makers' Union, International________________ 185,186
Diamond Workers’ Protective Union of America-------------------------186.187
Jewelry Workers' Union, International_________________________ 187,188
Powder and High Explosive Workers of America, United________ 188,189
Sawsmiths' Union of North America______________________________
189
Wire Weavers’ Protective Association, American______________ 189,190
Miscellaneous trades----------------------------------------------------------------------191-199
Barbers' International Union of America, Journeymen----------------- 191.192
Bill Posters and Billers of America, International Alliance of_______
192
193
Building Service Employees' International Union__________________
Clerks' International Protective Association, Retail______________ 193,194
Horseshoers of the United States and Canada, International Union
of Journeymen--------------------------------------------------------------------- 194,195
Laundry Workers' International Union___________________________
195
Pharmacists, American Registered---------------------------------------------195,196
Telegraphers’ Union of America, Commercial-------------------------------196,197
Telephone Workers, International Brotherhood of_________________
197
Industrial Workers of the World---------------------------------------------- 197-199
Knights of Labor (Inc.), Order of_______________________________
199




INDEX OF UNIONS

A

Page

Actors and Artistes of America, Associated-------------------------------------- 181,182
Agents, American R a ilw a y ------------------------------------------------------------65
Aircraft workers. See Automobile, aircraft, and vehicle workers.
Architects. See Draftsmen.
Asbestos Workers, International Association of Heat and Frost Insu­
lators and_______________________________________________________ 11,12
Automobile, Aircraft and Vehicle Workers of America, United-------------- 43,44

Bakery and Confectionery Workers’ International Union of America— 137-139
Barbers’ International Union of America, Journeymen----------------------- 191,192
Bill Posters and Billers of America, International Alliance of-------------192
Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, International Brotherhood of— 44-46
Boiler Makers, Iron Shipbuilders and Helpers of America, International
Brotherhood of___________________________________________________47,48
Bookbinders, International Brotherhood of-------------------------------------- 107,108
Boot and Shoe Workers’ Union____________________________________ 119,120
Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers of America, Interna­
tional Union of United----------------------------------------------------------------139,140
Brick and Clay Workers of America, United----------------------------------- 147,148
Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterers’ International Union of America----- 12-15
Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers, International Asso­
ciation o f _______________________________________________________ 15-17
Broom and Whisk Makers’ Union, International____________________ 185,186
Building Service Employees, International Union-------------------------------193
c
Carmen of America, Brotherhood of Railway-------------------------------------- 66,67
•Carpenters and Joiners of America, United Brotherhood of____________ 17-21
Carvers’ Association of North America, International Wood__________ 161,162
Cigar Makers’ International Union________________________________ 143,144
Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employees, Brotherhood
of Railway and Steamship________________________________________ 67,68.
Clerks’ International Protective Association, Retail_________________ 193,194
Clothing Workers of America, Amalgamated________________________ 120,121
Conductors, Brotherhood of Dining Car______________________________ 68,69
Conductors, Order of Sleeping Car___________________________________
69
Conductors of America, Order of Railway____________________________ 70-72
Coopers’ International Union of North America_____________________ 162,163
i>
Diamond Workers’ Protective Union of America___ ■________________ 186,187
Draftsmen’s Unions, International Federation of Technical Engineers,
Architects and____________________________________________________48,49
E

Electrical Workers, International Brotherhood of_____________________ 22-26
Elevator Constructors, International Union of________________________ 26,27
Engineers’ Beneficial Association of the United States of America,
National Marine--------------------------------------------------------------------------- -91,92
vn




VIII

INDEX OF UNIONS
Pace

Engineers, Grand International Brotherhood of Locomotive____________ 74-76
Engineers, International Union of Steam and Operating----------------------- 27,28
Engineers, Ocean Association of Marine______________________________
92
Engineers, Technical. See Draftsmen.
Engravers’ Union, International Metal______________________________
49
Engravers* Union of North America, International Photo____________ 108,109
Expressmen, Order of Railway______________________________________ 73,74
Express Workers, American Federation of____________________________
74
p

Federal Employees, National Federation of--------------------------------------165,166
Fire Fighters, International Association of_________________________ 166,167
Firemen and Enginemen, Brotherhood of Locomotive__________________ 74-76
Firemen and Oilers, International Brotherhood of_____________________ 49,50
Food Workers of America, Amalgamated__________________________ 140,141
Foundry Employees, International Brotherhood of____________________ 50,51
Fur Workers’ Union of the United States and Canada, Internationa]__ 121,122
a
Garment Workers’ Union, International Ladies’____________________ 123,124
Garment Workers of America, United______________________________ 124,125
Glass Bottle Blowers’ Association of the United States and Canada_____
148
Glass Cutters and Flatteners’ Association of America, Window_________
149
Glass Cutters and Flatteners’ Protective Association of America, Win­
dow------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 149,150
150
Glass Cutters’ League of America, Window___________________________
Glass Workers, National Window_________________________________ 150,151
Glass Workers’ Union of North America, American Flint____________151,152
Glove Workers’ Union of America, International___________________ 125,126
Granite Cutters’ International Association of America, The____________ 28,29
H

Hat, Cap, and Millinery Workers, International Union, Cloth________ 126,127
Hatters of North America, United_________________________________ 127,128
Heat and frost insulators workers. See Asbestos workers.
Hod Carriers, Building and Common Laborers’ Union of North America,
International_____________________________________________________ 29,30
Horseshoers of United States and Canada, International Union of
Journeymen------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 194,195
Hotel and Restaurant Employees’ International Alliance and Bartenders’
International League of America_________ _______________________141,142
I
Industrial Workers of the World_________________________________ 197-199
Iron, Steel, and Tin Workers of North America, Amalgamated Associa­
tion of__________________________________________________________
51
J
Jewelry Workers’ Union, International_____________________________ 187,188
K
Knights of Labor-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

199

Lace Operatives, Chartered Society of Amalgamated---------------------------135
Lathers’ International Union, Wood, Wire and Metal-------------------------- 30-32
Laundry Workers’ International Union----------------------------------- ----------195
Leather Workers’ International Union of America, United---------------- 157,158
Letter Carriers, National Association of------------------------------------------- 176,177
Lithographers of America, Amalgamated-------------------------------------------109-111
Loggers and Lumbermen, Loyal Legion of-------------------------------------------97,98
Longshoremen’s Association, International-------------------------------------------92,93




INDEX OF UNIONS

M

IX
Page

Machinists, International Association of____________________________ 52-5(5
Mail Association, Railway------------------------------------------------------------ 173,174
Mail Service, National Council of the Supervisory Officials of the
Railway________________________________________________________172,173
Maintenance of Way Employees, Brotherhood of----------------------------------- 76,77
Marble, Stone and Slate Polishers, Rubbers and Sawyers, Tile and Marble
Setters’ Helpers, and Terrazo Workers’ Helpers, International Associa­
tion of__________________________________________________________ 32,33
Masters, Mates and Pilots, National Organization_____________________ 93,94
Meat Cutters and Butcher Workmen of North America, Amalgamated- 142,143
Metal polishers. See Polishers.
Metal Workers of America, Amalgamated___________________________
56
Metal Workers* International Association, Sheet-------------------------------- 57-59
Mine Workers of America, United___________________________________98,99
Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers, International Union of_____________ 100,101
Molders’ Union of North America, International_____________________ 59-61
Mule Spinners, Cotton____________________________________________ 134,135
Musicians, American Federation of_________________________________ 182,183
N
Neptune Association________________________________________ _______

o

Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers of America, International
Association of____________________________________________________

94
101

p

Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers. of America, Brotherhood of___ 33-35
Paper Makers, International Brotherhood of________________________ 103,104
Pattern Makers’ League of America_________________________________ 61,62
Pavers, Rammermen, Flaggers, Bridge and Stone Curb Setters, Inter­
national Union of----------------------------------------------------------------------- 167,168
Paving Cutters’ Union of the United States of America and Canada,
International___________________________________________________152,153
Pharmacists, American Registered-------------------------------------------------195,196
Piano, Organ and Musical Instrument Workers, International Union of_ 163
Photo-engravers. See Engravers.
Plasterers. See Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterers.
Plasterers and Cement Finishers’ International Union of the United
States and Canada, Operative-------------------------------------------------------- 35-37
Plumbers and Steamfitters of the United States and Canada, United
Association of Journeymen-------------------------------------------------------------37,38
Pocketbook Workers* Union, International-------------------------------------- 158,159
Policewomen, International Association of__ _____________________ ;___
168
Polishers’ International Union, Metal________________________________ 62,63
Porters, Brakemen and Switchmen’s Association of, Train_____________ 77,78
Porters, Brotherhood of Sleeping Car------------------------------------------------78
Postal Employees, National Alliance of_____________________________ 178,179
174
Postal Supervisors, National Association of----------------------------------------Postmasters of the United States, National Association of_____________
171
Postmasters of the United States, National League of District_______ 171,172
Postmasters’ Association of the United States, Service_________________
172
Post Office Clerks of the United States, United National Association of_ 175,176
Post Office Clerks, National Federation of_________________________ 174,175
Post Office Laborers of the United States, National Association of_____
179
Potters, National Brotherhood of Operative------------------------------------- 153,154
Powder and High Explosive Workers of America, United____________ 188,189
Pressmen and Assistants’ Union of North America, International
Printing------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 111-113
Printers, Die Stampers, and Engravers’ Union of North America, Inter­
national Plate__________________________________________________ 113-114
Printing Trades’ Association, International Allied---------------------------- 106,107
Pulp, Sulphite and Paper Mill Workers, International Brotherhood of— 104,105
a
Quarry Workers’ International Union of North America____ . . . _____154,155




X

INDEX OF VXT0N8

R

Page
Railroad Supervisors of Mechanics, International Association of_______ 78,79
Railroad Workers, American Federation of__________________________ 79,80
Railway Mail Association. See Mail Association.
Roofers, Damp and Waterproof Workers’ Association, United Slate, Tile
and Composition----------------------------------------------------------------------------38,39
Rural Letter Carriers’ Association, National_______________________ 177,178
Rural Letter Carriers, National Federation of_______________________
178

s
Sawsmiths’ Union of North America-------------------------------------------------189
95
Seamen’s Union, International______________________________________
Siderographers, International Association of_________________________
114
Signalmen of America, Brotherhood of Railroad_____________________ 80,81
Sheet metal workers. See Metal workers.
Shipbuilders, iron. See Boiler makers, iron shipbuilders and helpers.
Shoe Workers’ Protective Union___________________________________ 128,129
Stage Employees and Moving Picture Machine Operators of the United
States and Canada, International Alliance of Theatrical___________ 183,184
Station Employees and Clerks, Brotherhood of Railroad----------------------81
Steam Shovel and Dredge Men, International Brotherhood of_________ 39,40
Stereotypers and Electrotypers’ Union of North America, Interna tic__ 114,115
Stone Cutters’ Association of North America, Journeymen-------------------- 40-42
Stove Mounters’ International Union of North America________________ 63,64
Street and Electric Railway Employees of America, Amalgamated Asso­
ciation o f ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 81,82
Switchmen’s Union of North America________________________________
83
T

Tailors’ Union of America, Journeymen____________________________ 129-131
Teachers, American Federation of_________________________________ 168,169
Teamsters, Chauffeurs. Stablemen and Helpers of America, International
Brotherhood of----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 83,84
Telegraphers, Order of Railroad_____________________________________ 84,85
Telegraphers’ Union of America, Commercial_______________________ 196,197
Telephone Operators’ Department, International Brotherhood of Elec­
trical Workers----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22-26
Telephone Workers, International Brotherhood of_____________________
197
Textile Workers of America, United-------------------------------------------------135
Textile Operatives, American Federation of________________________ 134,135
Textile Union, Federated----------------------------------------------------------------133,134
Tobacco Workers, Amalgamated-------------------------------------------------------144
Tobacco Workers’ International Union---------------------------------------------144,145
Track Foremen and Allied Brotherhood of Railway Track Laborers,
American Brotherhood of Railway-------------------------------------------------- 85,86
Train Dispatchers’ Association, American------------------------------------------- 86,87
Trainmen, Association of Colored Railway----------------------------------------88
Trainmen, Brotherhood of Railroad-------------------------------------------------- 87,88
Tunnel and Subway Constructors’ International Union of North America.
89
Typographical Union of North America, International----------------------- 115-118

v
Upholsterers’ International Union of North America________________ 163,164

v
Vehicle workers. See Automobile, aircraft, and vehicle workers.
w
Wall Paper Crafts of North America, United------------------------------------105,106
Wire Weavers' Protective Association, American------------------------------189,190
Wood carvers. See Carvers.
Y

Yardmasters of America, Railroad----------------------------------------------------- 89,90
Yardmasters of North America, Railroad-------------------------------------------- 90,91




BULLETIN OF THE

U. S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS
no.

WASHINGTON

420

Oc t o b e r , » m

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS
INTRODUCTION
This handbook represents an effort to list all o f the existing labor
organizations o f the United States having national entity and sig­
nificance, and to present for each o f the organizations listed the
following information: The relation of the organization to the
American Federation of Labor; a brief account o f its origin and
history; jurisdiction, both trade and territorial; form o f govern­
ment; qualifications for membership; apprentice system (as intended
by the organization and provided for in its constitution); method o f
negotiating agreements; benefits paid; official organ: location of
headquarters; extent o f organization; and total membership.
The data on jurisdiction, distribution o f local unions, and total
membership are presented as furnished by the organization. Where
membership was not reported, the figure represented by the voting
strength or the organization in the American Federation o f Labor
has been used for the affiliated unions. Membership is not given for
some o f the small independent unions, which declined to furnish it
for publication. Not all o f the organizations supplied complete in­
formation, and a few did not furnish any o f the data requested.
This compilation disregards entirely unions which are purely local
in character, works councils, and those organizations which are or
may fairly be regarded as company unions. It deals only with bona
fide labor organizations functioning in June, 1926. In relation to
inclusion or exclusion in the present work, a bona fide labor organiza­
tion may be defined as a group o f wage or salaried workers organized
for the purpose o f employing economic or political pressure to im­
prove the material condition o f its members. Under this definition
some professional organizations have been included and others ex­
cluded. The American Federation o f Teachers, for example, is
organized for the purpose o f improving the economic condition o f
teachers as well as the teaching standards, while the National Edu­
cational Association deals with methods and standards o f teaching
alone. Similarly, the American Society o f Marine Engineers con­
cerns itself with professional standards, methods, and legislation deal­
ing with marine engineering, and includes in its membership persons
not engaged in or connected with the profession. It is not included in
the list o f organizations, while similar organizations, such as the Na­
tional Marine Engineers9 Beneficial Association and the Ocean Asso­
ciation o f Marine Engineers, are listed, as they concern themselves
with actual working conditions, wage scales, and agreements. Some
o f the organizations in the United States Post Office disclaim any




1

2

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TBADE-UNIONS

labor connections or significance. Nevertheless among their objec­
tives are improved salary ratings and control o f working conditions,
objects whicn bring them within the scope of this work, even though
the method o f attaining their objects must in the nature of things
differ from those of trade organizations.
The National Association o f Piano Tuners is a craft organization
which includes in its membership men employed on salary as tuners
in warehouses and salesrooms. Most of the members, however, are
independent operators, each with an individual clientele, so that they
rank more nearly as small business men than as wage workers. It
is therefore not listed as a labor organization, nor is the National
Association of Foremen, an organization composed o f foremen in
industrial plants o f widely divergent character, and which so far is
solely an educational and standard-setting body. Both of these as­
sociations are, however, potentially at least, wage-fixing organiza­
tions.
One hundred and fifty-six organizations are included in the hand­
book. O f these 107 are affiliated to the American Federation o f
Labor. Many o f those outside the federation have never been iden­
tified with it, among them being most o f the railroad organizations,
including, o f course, the “ Big F ou r” brotherhoods, and practically
all o f the organizations in the United States Post Office. The purely
craft or industrial organizations outside the American Federation o f
Labor have been formed chiefly as the result o f secession from the
American Federation of Labor unions, thus creating what in Ameri­
can Federation of Labor parlance are known as “ dual ” or “ outlaw ”
unions. They are found principally in the clothing, textile, and
shoe industries.
Care has been taken not to include in the bureau’s list o f existing
bona fide unions those sporadic groups which, however authentic and
effective they may be for a time, do not attain real stability. How­
ever, labor organization is not static and the situation six months
hence may differ materially from that o f to-day. Since the first
o f the present year (1926) two organizations which appear in con­
temporary lists, the Amalgamated Society o f Carpenters and Joiners
and the Elastic Goring Weavers’ Amalgamated Association, have
closed their offices and passed out o f existence. Another organization,
the Brotherhood o f Sleeping Car Porters, which had barely come
into existence at the first of the year, is rapidly attaining a vitality
which indicates permanency. Among the dual unions, notably those
in the textile industry, negotiations and conferences looking toward
amalgamation with each other and with the American Federation o f
Labor unions are frequent, and their status may change at any con­
vention.
jk.s nearlyas could'be determined.by the Bureau o f Labor Statis­
tics, /however, this compilation' includes all o f the organizations as
definedwhich are m iiQ i^ m /ib ppe or in purpose, They are grouped
by* industries, cro^-refereiices 'being 'given 'in cases where the organi­
zation is concerned with more than one industrial division. An
index is presented which shows for each industrial divison the organ­
izations therein which are and those which are not affiliated to the
•Federation o f Labor. In the concipilatipn^itself no sep&r.aEion is made o f affiliated and unaifilTated unions.




AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR

3

The total membership o f the international organizations affiliated
to the American Federation o f Labor, as shown in their reports to
the Bureau o f Labor Statistics, is 3,333,597. This, together with
50,400 additional in directly affiliated local unions, gives the Ameri­
can Federation o f Labor a total membership o f 3,383,997. Member­
ship o f organizations outside the federation, including the Industrial
Workers o f the World, is 1,059,526.

THE AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR
The American Federation of Labor was the outgrowth of the movement
of skilled craftsmen away from the form of organization, practiced by the
Knights of Labor. Promoted chiefly by the molders, cigar makers, printers,
iron and steel workers, and lake seamen, organized as assemblies of their re­
spective trades under the Knights of Labor, a convention was held in Pitts­
burgh, Pa., at which the Federation of Trades and Labor Unions was organ­
ized on November 15, 1881. The name under which the second convention was
held, in 1882, was Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions of the
United States of America and Canada.
This organization was loosely formed and operated under a platform rather
than a constitution. A legislative committee served in the capacity of execu­
tive and steering committee, and the chairman of the legislative committee
presided at the annual sessions.
The sixth annual convention of the Federation of Organized Trades and
Labor Unions, held at Columbus, Ohio, in December, 1886, adjourned as
such after the second day and resolved itself immediately into the first con­
vention of the American Federation of Labor. Twenty-five national labor or­
ganizations were represented. Samuel Gompers became the first president of
the reorganized federation. By the time the second convention was held a
formal constitution had been drawn up, which was adopted at the convention
of 1887, held at Baltimore, Md.
During the first two decades after its establishment, the American Federa­
tion of Labor took into membership and chartered as affiliated bodies all the
organizations that applied for affiliation. In consequence, more than one
union in the same industry or even in the same craft held membership at the
same time. For example, both the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and
Joiners and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners held member­
ship in the federation for years.
However, with the development in 1907 of departments to include all the
unions in the largest industries, the policy of “ one craft, one union,” was
adopted and carried out. This involved the merging of those unions which
exercised jurisdiction in the same or similar trades, and reduced the number
of affiliated international organizations.
The carrying out of this policy resulted as well in a number of expulsions
from the federation of unions which refused to merge their identity and these
becoming independent, created what, from the viewpoint of the American
Federation of Labor, is known as “ outlaw organizations.” Instances of this are
the International Brotherhood of Steam Shovel and Dredge Men, which did not
comply with the instruction to amalgamate with the International Union of
Steam and Operating Engineers ; and the Amalgamated Lace Operatives and
the International Mule Spinners’ Union, both of which were ordered into the
United Textile Workers and refused to comply.
There are at present 107 national and international unions affiliated to the
American Federation of Labor. These are treated in detail in the following
sections.
LOCAL UNIONS

In addition to the autonomous national and international trade organizations
comprising it, the American Federation of Labor contains 444 organized bodies
known as local trade and Federal labor unions which are chartered and gov­
erned directly by the federation itself.
LOCAL TRADE-UNIONS

A directly affiliated local trade-union is composed of workers in a trade
which is not organized nationally, or the national organization of which is




4

HANDBOOK OF AMEBICAN TRADE-UNIONS

not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. When these directly
affiliated local organizations within a given trade become sufficiently numer­
ous and represent a substantial number of workers, they form the nucleus
of a national union of that trade. Many of the existing international unions
were organized from local craft unions.
Of those so organized at present the most important are the public service
employees, embracing State, city, and county clerical employees, police, library
attendants, sanitary inspectors, etc., of whom there are 34 unions with a mem­
bership of 2,000; the stenographers, typists, bookkeepers and office clerks, with
2,000 members organized into 23 local unions; theater attendants, including
ushers, ticket sellers and takers, wardrobe mistresses, and dressers, in which
callings there are 18 locals, and hospital attendants and nurses.
Unions of colored workers in a.jurisdiction covered by an international union
which does not admit negroes are also chartered by the American Federation of
Labor as directly affiliated trade-unions. The outstanding instance of direct
affiliation of this character is the negro baggage men, freight handlers, and
station employees in railroad service. This jurisdiction is held by the Brother­
hood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Sta­
tion Employees, which, until its expulsion in January, 1926 (see p. 67), was
affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, but it does not admit negroes to
membership. Hence there are 44 local unions of colored freight and baggage
handlers, railroad station employees, station porters, etc.
There are also unions in direct affiliation to the American Federation of
Labor in jurisdictions which are definitely covered by international unions
belonging to the federation. This is notably true of cleaning and dyeing, work
which comes under the jurisdiction of the Journeymen Tailors’ Union, but
shared in certain instances with the Laundry Workers* International Union, by
agreement between the two internationals. Badge and lodge paraphernalia
workers, chartered by the American Federation of Labor, are included in the
jurisdiction of the International Jewelry Workers* Union. Paper bag and
envelope makers are also chartered as directly affiliated locals, although the
International Brotherhood of Paper Makers claims jurisdiction.
The reasons given by the American Federation of Labor for this apparently
chaotic situation are various, having to do generally with unsettled jurisdic­
tional disputes or instability in the international union itself.
Three other crafts now organized as American Federation of Labor locals,
the sawmill workers and woodsmen, the slate workers, and the gold beaters,
have been represented in the past by national organizations. They have, how­
ever, collapsed as national unions, the charter of the sawmill workers and
woodsmen (International Union of Timber Workers) having been surrendered
in 1922; that of the slate workers (American Brotherhood of Slate Workers)
in 1913; and that of the gold beaters (National Gold Beaters* Protective
Union) in 1908.
Miscellaneous crafts and occupations in which such organizations as exist are
chartered directly by the American Federation of Labor are egg candling,
sail and tent making, bathtub enameling, hair spinning, tire repairing, button
making, canning, gardening, and embalming.
FEDERAL LABOR UNIONS

A Federal labor union is composed of workers in localities where no na­
tional or local trade-union exists. It may include any number of different
crafts and callings, and is somewhat analogous to the “ mixed assemblies ** of
the old Knights of Labor. “ A local union composed of one trade or calling
exclusively is not a Federal labor union.*' (American Federation of Labor law.)
The members of a Federal labor union are chiefly unskilled workers in un­
classified occupations.
STATE FEDERATIONS AND CENTRAL LABOR UNIONS

State federations of labor are delegate bodies composed of representatives
from all the affiliated national and international unions, American Federation
of Labor local unions, and city central bodies within the State. There is one
in each State in the United States and one in Porto Rico.
The function of a State federation is chiefly legislative and propagandist.
Central labor unions, or “ city centrals,** are also delegate bodies made up of
representatives of all the affiliated local unions in a city or town. Some inter-




AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR

5

national unions require their local unions to affiliate with the central body If
one exists, and it is the general policy of international unions even when it is
not a constitutional requirement. American Federation of Labor locals must
be represented in central bodies.
The central labor unions meet weekly, as a rule, and serve as clearing houses
for the varied labor activities of their localities. They may serve in negotiat­
ing agreements and as a medium of arbitration and conciliation in disputes.
Like the State federations, they are also legislative and propagandist organiza­
tions. Frequently they take an active part in strikes, and one of the most im­
portant phases of their work is promoting the union label.
City centrals are chartered by the American Federation of Labor, and
under American Federation of Labor law only delegates representing unions
affiliated to the federation are eligible. ( “Central bodies can not seat delegates
from suspended, seceded, dual, or unaffiliated unions.**—American Federation
of Labor law.)
There are 850 of these central bodies in the United States and Canada, cover­
ing all the States, Hawaii, Panama, and Porto Rico.
DEPARTMENTS

There are four departments in the American Federation of Labor: Building
trades, metal trades, railway employees, and union label trades.
These departments, under American Federation of Labor law, are “the offi­
cial method of the American Federation of Labor for transacting the portion
of its business indicated by the name of the department/’
Each department, however, manages and finances its own affairs, holds a
convention distinct from that of the American Federation of Labor, and func­
tions independently within the limits set by the constitution of the federation.
The two largest departments, building trades and metal trades, function
through local councils of the industries. It was the intention of the American
Federation of Labor that all the organizations concerned should be represented
in their respective department and local councils. To that end it was hoped
that the international unions would adopt a policy of requiring their locals
to become affiliated with the industrial councils in their territorial jurisdiction.
However, not all the internationals have adopted a policy of compulsion in
this regard. In consequence, not all local councils in the two industrial groups
represent all the local unions in those industries. But as a rule the councils
do represent most, if not all, of the craft organizations eligible to membership.
BUILDING TRADES DEPARTMENT

The Building Trades Department was established in February, 1908, as the
first result of action taken at the 1907 convention of the American Federation
of Labor declaring that “for the greater development of the labor movement,
departments subordinate to the American Federation of Labor are to be estab­
lished.”
The nucleus of the Building Trades Department already existed in the Struc­
tural Building Trades Alliance of America, a combination of building tradesunions founded in Indianapolis in 1903. This alliance was independent of die
federation, although composed chiefly of American Federation of Labor inter­
national unions.
Following its adoption of a policy of group or industrial divisions, the feder­
ation met the alliance in conference and reorganized it as the Building Trades
Department of the American Federation of Labor.
The declared objects of the department are “the encouragement and forma­
tion of local organizations of building tradesmen and the conferring of such
power and authority upon the several locals of this department as may advance
the interests and welfare of the building industry; to adjust trade disputes
along practical lines as they arise from time to time; and to create a more
harmonious feeling between employer and employee.”
Membership in the Building Trades Department is “confined to national and
international building trades organizations that are affiliated to the American
Federation of Labor and which are universally employed in the building in­
dustry either in erection, repair, or alteration.”
The department recognizes “the justice of trade jurisdiction” and aims “ to
guarantee to the various branches of the building industry control of such work
as rightfully belongs to them and to which they are justly entitled/*




6

HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TBADE-X7NIONS

To that end the constitution of the department provides for a board of arbi­
tration to act on “ all cases of trade disputes between affiliated organizations on
questions of jurisdiction.” The board is composed of one representative from
each of the contesting parties and a building trades man selected by the presi­
dent of the Building Trades Department Decisions of the board are “ binding
on all parties concerned” but are subject to appeal to the executive council or
to the convention of the Building Trades Department.
The department is also represented on the National Board of Jurisdictional
Awards in the Building Industry, a body consisting of representatives of the
American Engineering Council, the American Institute of Architects, the Asso­
ciated General Contractors of America, the National Association of Building
Trades Employers, and three representatives elected by the Building Trades
Department. “The immediate object” of the board “ is to settle disputes as to
jurisdiction over work that is claimed by more than one building trade.”
The Building Trades Department is governed by an executive council com­
posed of president, secretary-treasurer, and five vice presidents, no two members
of which may belong to or represent the same international union. The presi­
dent is the chief administrative officer.
Building trades councils

The department operates through local building trades councils organized in
cities and towns, membership in which is made up of the locals in each city
and town of the international unions comprising the Building Trades Depart­
ment. The councils are delegate bodies, representation being based upon the
total membership of each affiliated local. The constitution and by-laws gov­
erning local councils are imposed by the department.
Trade movements and strikes must first receive sanction of the national
or international union of the craft involved and then of the local building
trades council. When a strike is called the local council “ shall have full juris­
diction,” and the business agent of the council “ shall have full power to order
all strikes when instructed to do so by the council or its executive board.”
State building trades councils may be organized at the option of the local
councils, and when organized are chartered by the department with “ power
to make their own laws in conformity with the laws of the department. ”
Organization

The 16 international unions comprising the Building Trades Department are:
Asbestos Workers, International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators
and.
Bricklayers, Masons, and Plasterers’ International Union.
Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, International Association of.
Electrical Workers, International Brotherhood of.
Elevator Constructors, International Union of.
Engineers, International Union of Steam and Operating.
Granite Cutters’ International Union.
Hod Carriers, Building and Common Laborers’ Union, International.
Lathers, International Union of Wood, Wire and Metal.
Marble, Slate, and Stone Polishers, Rubbers and Sawyers, Tile and Marble
Setters’ Helpers, International Association of.
Metal Workers* International Association, Sheet
Painters, Decorators, and Paperhangers, Brotherhood of.
Plasterers and Cement Finishers, International Association of Operative.
Plumbers and Steamfitters, United Association of Journeymen.
Roofers, Damp and Waterproof Workers’ Association, United Slate, Tile and
Composition.
Stonecutters’ Association of America, Journeymen.
The largest union in the building industry, the United Brotherhood of Car­
penters and Joiners of America, is not a member of the Building Trades De­
partment. It withdrew in 1922 in protest against a jurisdictional award
granting to the Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association control over
the setting of hollow trim in building construction. Carpenters’ locals of the
brotherhood are nevertheless seated in some local building trades councils.
State councils: States having State building trades councils and the number
of local councils therein are California, 27; Connecticut, 14; Indiana, 16;




AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR

7

Massachusetts, 20; Michigan, 9; New Jersey, 19; New York, 30; Ohio, 27;
Oklahoma, 11. Total, 9 States, 173 local councils.
Local councils: United States—Alabama, 2; Arizona, 1; Arkansas, 2; Colo­
rado, 5; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 6; Georgia, 3; Idaho, 3;
Illinois, 27; Iowa 9; Kansas 3; Kentucky, 3; Louisiana, 5; Maine, 2; Mary­
land, 3; Minnesota, 6; Mississippi, 1; Missouri, 5; Montana, 3; Nebraska, 3;
Nevada, 1; New Hampshire, 2; North Carolina, 5; North Dakota 1; Oregon, 2;
Pennsylvania. 31: Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina, 2; South Dakota, 2; Ten­
nessee, 4; Texas, 10; Utah, 1; Virginia, 4; Washington, 10; West Virginia, 4;
Wisconsin, 11; Wyoming, 2. Canada—Alberta, 1; British Columbia, 1; Mani­
toba, 1; New Brunswick, 1; Nova Scotia, 1; Quebec, 1; Ontario, 10. Total, 204.
The Building Trades Department holds an annual convention, preceding the
convention of the American Federation of Labor. Vice presidents are elected
annually in convention, while the salaried officers (president and secretarytreasurer) are elected every third year. The headquarters of the department
are in the American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
METAL TRADES DEPARTMENT

The Metal Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor was
established as a department in June, 1908. A federation of some of the metal
trades-unions had been functioning since 1900, when the Federated Metal
Trades was organized. While not all of the metal trades were included, the
federation organized local metal trades councils in various cities. It was an
independent organization, but when the departmental program was undertaken
by the American Federation of Labor, the Federated Metal Trades, with its
nucleus of industrial federation in the metal industry, was taken over and
chartered as the Metal Trades Department of the American Federation of
Labor. Thereafter the affiliated metal trades-unions in the American Fed­
eration of Labor which had not been identified with the Federated Metal
Trades became members of the Metal Trades Department.
The purpose of the department, as declared in its constitution, is “ the en­
couragement and formation of local metal trades councils and the conferring
of such power and authority upon the various local organizations of this de­
partment as may advance the interest and welfare of the metal industry ” ; to
“ adjust trade disputes” ; and “ to use its good offices in assisting affiliated
national and international unions in the adjustment of any dispute arising
over a question of jurisdiction.”
It is governed by an executive council consisting of the president, secretarytreasurer, and six vice presidents, no two of whom shall be representatives of
the same organization. The president “ exercises supervision over the Metal
Trades Department throughout its jurisdiction.”
Membership in the department is “ confined to national and international
metal trades-unions which are chartered by and affiliated to the American
Federation of Labor, and metal trades councils chartered by and affiliated to
the department, and which are employed in the metal industries.”
Local metal trades councils are formed wherever “ there exists three or more
local unions of trades” affiliated to the Metal Trades Department. These
councils are governed by the laws and constitution of the department, and any
by-laws adopted for local government must be approved by the executive coun­
cil of the department. The territorial jurisdiction of a local council is deter­
mined by the executive council.
Trade movements and strikes undertaken by a local council must be sanc­
tioned by ihe international officers of all local organizations involved and by
the department before being carried out.
Organization

The 16 national and international unions comprising the Metal Trades De­
partment are:
Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, International Brotherhood of.
Boilermakers and Iron Shipbuilders of America, International Brotherhood
of.
Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, International Association of.
Draftsmen’s Unions. International Federation of Technical Engineers, Archi­
tects and.
103312°—26----- 2




8

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

Electrical Workers of America, International Brotherhood of.
Engineers, International Union of Steam and Operating.
Firemen and Oilers, International Brotherhood of Stationary.
Foundry Employees, International Brotherhood of.
Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, Amalgamated Association of.
Machinists, International Association of.
Metal Polishers' International Union.
Metal Workers' International Association, Sheet.
Molders' Union of North America, International.
Pattern Makers' League of North America.
Plumbers, Gas Fitters, Steam Fitters and Helpers, United Association of.
Stove Mounters' International Union.
Metal trades districts: There are eight districts, two industrial and six
geographic, known as “ metal trades districts,” over which a district council
has jurisdiction. These are: American Locomotive Co., with headquarters in
Dunkirk. N. Y .; the plants of the General Electric Co., headquarters, Schenec­
tady; and the Canadian (Montreal), Delaware River (Philadelphia), Great
Lakes (Duluth), New England (Portsmouth, N. H.), Pacific Coast (Seattle),
and South Atlantic and Gulf Coast (Pensacola, Fla.) districts.
Local metal trades councils: United States—Alabama, 1; California, 4;
Colorado, 1; Connecticut, 4; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 2;
Georgia, 1; Illinois, 1; Indiana, 1; Louisiana, 1; Maine, 2; Maryland, 1;
Massachusetts, 9; Michigan, 1; Minnesota, 2; Missouri. 1; Montana, 3 ;
Nebraska, 1; New Hampshire, 2; New Jersey, 3; New York, 8; Ohio. 4;
Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 8; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina, 1; Texas, 3;
Utah, 1; Virginia, 4; Washington, 7; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 4. Canal
Zone, 1. Canada—British Columbia, 1; Nova Scotia, 1; Ontario, 5; Quebec, 4.
Total, 99.
The Metal Trades Department holds a convention annually at a time and
place designated by the executive council. The custom is for the Metal Trades
Department to me t in convention immediately following the adjournment of
the convention of the American Federation of Labor. The officers are elected
annually in convention.
The headquarters of the Metal Trades Department are in the American
Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
RAILWAY EMPLOYEES DEPARTMENT

The Railway Employees Department was organized in November, 1908.
It grew out of a movement, begun several years earlier, toward amalgama­
tion into system federations, of the various organizations in the railroad-shop
crafts. The department at first functioned principally as a legislative and
organizing medium in which the affiliated organizations had very little part.
After the strike on the Harriman lines, in 1912, a conference of the shopcraft
unions on 40 railroad systems was held in Kansas City, looking toward unity
and a more militant program. The outcome of this conference was the forma­
tion of a Federation of System Federations. At the convention of the Railway
Employees Department held at Rochester, N. Y., later in 1912, the constitution,
policies, and officers of the Federation of System Federations were indorsed
and accepted by the Railway Employees Department.
The platform of the department “ aims to bring within the organization all
railway employees; to shorten the hours of labor to 44 per week—5 days of
8 hours and 4 hours on Saturday; to establish a minimum wage scale for all
employees in all branches of railway service; to bring about a uniform agree­
ment; * * * to prevent strikes and lockouts wherever possible.”
The department is composed of “ national and international and brotherhood
organizations of railway employees recognized as such, duly and regularly
chartered by the American Federation of Labor.” It is divided into three
autonomous sections: Section 1, switchmen; section 2, the various member
organizations covering railroad shops; and section 3, the stationary firemen
and oilers and the maintenance of way employees.
The Railway Employees Department is governed by the president, vice
president, and secretary-treasurer. elected at the biennial convention, and an
executive council composed of the international presidents of the component
organizations. vThe president is “ the supreme executive officer, subject to the
directions of the executive council in all matters wherein authority is not




AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOE

9

specifically conferred upon the president alone, or upon other officers of the
department.”
The unit of organization is the system federation, composed of not less
than three local craft unions, members of organizations holding membership
in the department, on any railroad system. A railroad system is defined
in the constitution as “ a railway under one general manager.”
System federations are chartered by the department, hold their own con­
ventions, adopt by-laws for local government subject to the approval of the
president, and elect their own officers.
Agreements presented by system federations for negotiation with railroad
managements must be approved by the president and the executive council of
the department before negotiations are begun.
Machinery for the adjudication of jurisdictional disputes provides: First,
that “ there shall be no withdrawal of workmen from any system by a com­
ponent or subordinate organization” pending adjustment; second, “ that a
committee of one from each craft employed at the local point” where the
dispute arises “ shall by a majority vote decide such dispute,” such decision to
be “ accepted by all craftsmen represented at the local point.” Thereafter,
the general chairman of each craft on the system shall formulate a policy
covering the point at issue, based on the findings of the local committee. If
agreement is not reached through these two avenues, appeal is taken to the
president of the department, whose decision is “ to be final and binding on all
crafts represented until reversed by an action of the executive council or a
convention of the Railway Employees Department.”
Organization

The nine organizations comprising the Railway Employees Department are:
Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers, and Helpers, International Brotherhood of.
Boilermakers, Iron Shipbuilders, and Helpers, International Brotherhood of.
Carmen, Brotherhood of Railway.
Electrical Workers, International Brotherhood of.
Firemen and Oilers, International Brotherhood of Stationary.
Machinists, International Association of.
Maintenance of Way Employees, Brotherhood of.
Metal Workers’ International Association, Sheet.
Switchmen’s Union of North America.
There are active system federations, working under federation agreements
with the management, on 37 railroads.
Headquarters of the Railway Employees Department are in the America
Fore Building, 844 Rush Street, Chicago, 111.
UNION LABEL TRADES DEPARTMENT

The Union Label Trades Department was organized in March, 1909. It is
composed of “ national and international unions regularly chartered by and
affiliated to the American Federation of Labor using labels, cards, or buttons
on the products of their members or to designate membership therein.”
It was organized “ to promote a greater demand for products bearing the
union label and of labor performed by union workers; to investigate into,
devise, recommend, and within the limits of its authority carry into effect
methods for the advertisement of union-label products.”
Control over the laws and trade regulations governing the use of union
labels remains with the affiliated organizations, and the department has no
authority over their issuance or use. It is merely an educational and publicity
medium in promoting a demand for union labels.
The department holds a convention each year just preceding the convention
of the American Federation of Labor, at which its officers are elected. The
executive board consists of a president, vice president, and secretary-treasurer.
The secretary-treasurer is the full-time salaried official, charged with the
duty of “ carrying out the purposes for which the department was created.”
The department issues an official directory of manufacturers using union
labels.
Local label leagues are established with the indorsement of the central
labor union of the city or town. There are 194 of these local label leagues
under charter from the department in various cities.




10

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

The organizations represented in the department are:
Bakery and Confectionery Workers International Union of America.
Barbers’ International Union of America, Journeymen.
Bill Posters and Billers of America, International Alliance of.
Bookbinders, International Brotherhood of.
Boot and Shoe Workers’ Union.
Brewery, Flour, Cereal, and Soft Drink Workers, International Union of
United.
Brick and Clay Workers of America, United.
Broom and Whisk Makers’ Union, International.
Carpenters and Joiners of America, United Brotherhood of.
Cigar Makers’ International Union of America.
Clerks’ International Protective Association, Retail.
Coopers* International Union of North America.
Electrical Workers of America, International Brotherhood of.
Engravers' Union, International Metal.
Engravers’ Union of North America, International Photo-.
Garment Workers of America, United.
Glove Workers’ Union of America, International.
Hat, Cap, and Millinery Workers’ International Union, Cloth.
Hatters of America, United.
Horseshoers of United States and Canada, International Union of Journey­
men.
Hotel and Restaurant Employees and Bartenders’ International League.
International Alliance of.
Iron, Steel, and Tin Workers, Amalgamated Association of.
Jewelry Workers’ Union, International.
Leather Workers’ International Union, United.
Machinists, International Association of.
Meat Cutters and Butcher Workmen of North America, Amalgamated.
Metal Workers’ International Association, Sheet.
Holders’ Union of North America, International.
Musicians, American Federation of.
Painters, Decorators, and Paperhangers of America, Brotherhood of.
Paper Makers, International Brotherhood of.
Plasterers’ International Association of United States and Canada, Opera­
tive.
Polishers’ International Union, Metal.
Pressmen and Assistants’ Union, International Printing.
Printers, Die Stampers and Engravers’ Union, International Plate.
Stage Employees and Moving-Picture Machine Operators, International
Alliance of Theatrical.
Stereotypers and Electrotypers’ Union of North America, International.
Stove Mounters’ International Union.
Street and Electric Railway Employees of America, Amalgamated Associa­
tion of.
Tailors’ Union of America, Journeymen.
Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen, and Helpers, International Brotherhood of.
Tobacco Workers’ International Union.
Typographical Union, International.
Upholsterers’ International Union of North America.
Wall Paper Crafts of North America, United.
Wire Weavers’ Protective Association, American.




BUILDING TRADES
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Building Trades Department, A. F. of L------------------------------------------------- Asbestos Workers, International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators andBricklayers, Masons and Plasterers* International Union of America-----------Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers, International Association o fCarpenters and Joiners of America, United Brotherhood of------------------------Electrical Workers, International Brotherhood of-------------------------------------Elevator Constructors, International Union of-------------------------------------------Engineers. International Union of Steam and Operating------------------------Granite Cutters’ International Association of America. The------------------------Hod Carriers, Building and Common Laborers’ Union of America, Inter­
national_______________________________________________________________
Lathers’ International Union, Wood, Wire and Metal----------------------------------Marble, Stone and Slate Polishers, Rubbers and Sawyers, Tile and Marble
Setters' Helpers, and Terrazzo Workers’ Helpers, International Associa­
tion of_____________ __________________________________________________
Metal Workers’ International Association, Sheet (classified under Metal
Trades)_______________________________________________________________
Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Brotherhood of__________
Plasterers and Cement finishers’ International Association of the United
States and Canada, Operative----------------------------------------------------------------Plumbers and Steamfitters of United States and Canada, United Association
of Journeymen---------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------Roofers, Damp and Waterproof Workers’ Association, United Slate, Tile and
Composition___________________________________________________________
Stone Cutters' Association of North America, Journeymen------------------------Independent organizations:
_
, ,
, ^
. Steam Shovel and Dredge Men, International Brotherhood of-------------------- -

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5
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ASBESTOS WORKERS, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HEAT
AND FROST INSULATORS AND
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1904 from directly affiliated American Federation of Labor
local unions.
Objects.—“ The object of the International Association of Heat and Frost In­
sulators and Asbestos Workers shall be to assist its membership in securing
employment, to defend their rights and advance their interests as workingmen ;
and by education and cooperation raise them to that position in society to
which they are justly entitled.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—All workers engaged in “ the practical mechanical appli­
cation, installation, or erection of heat and frost insulation such as magnesia,
asbestos, hairfelt, woolfelt, cork, mineral wool, infusorial earth, mercerized
silk, flax fiber, firefelt, asbestos paper, asbestos curtain, asbestos millboard, or
any substitute for these materials, or engaged in any labor connected with the
handling or distributing of insulating materials on job premises.”
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, secretarytreasurer and three vice presidents of equal rank, “shall supervise the affairs
of the international union.”
2. Local unions. “Local unions are subordinate branches of the inter­
national association and can only exercise local autonomy in matters upon
which the international constitution and by-laws are silent.” They “ shall have
power to regulate the hours of labor to less than eight per day and to fix wages
within their chartered jurisdiction or trade agreement radius.”
3. Convention. Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general offi­
cers.
Qualifications for membership.—Applicants for mechanical (journeyman)
membership must pass an examination. Applicants for improver membership
must be not less than 18 nor more than 25 years of age, and must read, write,
and understand the English language. Applicants for apprentice membership
must be not less than 16 nor more than 20 years of age, and must read, write,
and understand English.




11

12

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Apprenticeship regulations.—“Local unions shall have power to regulate the
working conditions * # * apprentices* in any manner they deem proper.”
Agreements.—Negotiated locally, by committees from local unions and local
employers, but must contain “ the several principles as declared, enacted, and
adopted by the international association,” including the prohibition of “con­
tracting, subcontracting, lump work, or piecework.”
Agreements cover hourly rates, apprentice regulations, overtime regulations
and pay; adjustment of grievances.
Hours: Constitutional eight-hour day.
Benefits.—Strike (by special assessment only; no strike fund).
Official organ.—The Asbestos Worker (quarterly).
Headquarters.—United Home Building, St. Louis, Mo.
Organization.—Local unions: United State*—Arkansas, 1: California, 4;
Colorado, 1; Connecticut, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Illinois, 1; Indiana, 2;
Iowa, 1; Kentucky, 1: Louisiana, 1; Maine, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 2;
Michigan, 1; Minnesota, 2; Missouri, 2; Nebraska, 1; New Jersey, 1; New
York, 5; Ohio, 5; Oklahoma, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 3; Rhode Island, 1;
Texas, 2; Virginia, 1; Washington. 3; Wisconsin, 1. Canada, 2. Total, 50.
Membership.—Not reported. Voting strength in American Federation of
Labor, 2,400.

BRICKLAYERS, MASONS AND PLASTERERS’ INTERNATIONAL
UNION OF AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized October 17, 1865. The first steps toward national unity among
the scattered local organizations of bricklayers were taken by seven men be­
longing to the Philadelphia and Baltimore associations. Meeting in Philadel­
phia on October 17, 1865, they drafted a constitution, elected officers, and in­
structed the secretary to “ correspond with all bricklayers* unions known to
exist in the United States, requesting them to send delegates to the next con­
vention, to meet in Baltimore on January 8, 1866. ”
This convention was held as planned, with delegates from eight cities in at­
tendance, and the International Bricklayers’ Union of North America was es­
tablished. Two years later the name was changed to National Bricklayers’
Union. During the panic of 1871-1873 and the years of depression which fol­
lowed, the organization was demoralized, losing 95 per cent of its member­
ship. The 187& convention met in Covington, Ky., with only three unions repre­
sented—Covington, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis. The entire membership at
that time was 229. The organization did not disband, however. It met again in
1881, reorganized, and survived. Stone masons were admitted to membership
and in 1883 the name was changed to Bricklayers and Masons’ International
Union, with jurisdiction over Canada, where organization had already begun
with the chartering of a Montreal local in 1880. The journal of the organi­
zation was established in 1898.
Absorption of an independent organization, the Stone Masons* International
Union, in 1903 brought about an increased membership and a wider field, and
in 1910 jurisdiction was extended to plasterers. To include them definitely
in the organization, the name became and remains Bricklayers, Masons and
Plasterers’ International Union of America.
The union maintained an independent position in the labor movement from
its inception until 1916, when it changed its policy and joined the American
Federation of Labor as an affiliated body.
Objects.—“ The object shall be to unite into one parent body, for mutual
protection and benefit, all members of the mason craft that work at the same,
who are citizens of the country within its jurisdiction, without condition as
to servitude or race. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Bricklayinfj masonry shall consist of the laying of
bricks made from any material in, under, or upon any structure or form of
work where bricks are used, whether in the ground, or over its surface or be­
neath water; in commercial buildings, rolling mills, iron works, blast or smelter
furnaces, lime or brick kilns; in mines and fortifications, and in all under­
ground work such as sewers, telegraph, electric and telephone conduits. All
pointing, cleaning, and cutting of brick walls, fireproofing, block arching, terra­
cotta cutting and setting, the laying and cutting of all tile, plaster, mineral-




BUILDING TRADES

13

wool, and cork blocks, or any substitute for above material, the cutting, rub­
bing, and grinding ol* all kinds of brick and the setting of all cut-stone trim­
mings on brick buildings, is bricklayer's wofk.
"Stone masonry shall consist of layiug all rubble work, with or without
mortar, setting all cut-stone, marble, slate, or stone work (meaning, as to
stone, any work manufactured from such foreign or domestic products as are
specified and used in the interior or on the exterior of buildings by architects,
and customarily called “ stone” 11 the trade).
“ Cutting all shoddies, broken ashlar, or random ashlar that is roughly
dressed upon the beds and joints, and range ashlar not over 10 inches in
height; the dressing of all jambs, corners, and ring stones that are roughly
dressed upon the beds, joints, or reveals, and the cutting of a draft upon same
for plumbing purposes only; and the cleaning and pointing of stonework.
“ This is to apply to all work 011 buildings, sewers, bridges, railroads, or
other public works, and to all kinds of stone, particularly to the product of
the locality where the work is being done, and the same shall be considered
stone masonry.
“ And the stonemasons shall have the right to use all tools which they con­
sider necessary in the performance of their work.
“ Marble masonry.—Marble masons' jurisdiction claims shall consist of the
carving, cutting, and setting of all marble, slate, stone, albereen, glass scagliola,
marbleithic, and all other artificial imitation or cast of whatever thickness or
dimension. This shall apply to all interior work such as sanitary, decorative,
or other purposes inside of building of every description wherever required,
including all polish, honed or sand finish; also the cutting and fitting of above
materials after same leave mills or shops, and the laying of all marble tile,
slate tile, and terrazzo tile.
“Artificial masonry.—The cutting, setting, and pointing of all artificial
stone, either interior or exterior, when set by the usual custom of the stone­
mason and marble cutter. All cement that is used for backing up external
walls, the building of party walls, columns, girders, beams, floors, stairs, and
arches and all material substituted for the clay or natural stone products, shall
be controlled by members of the Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterers’ Interna­
tional Union.
“ Plastering.—All exterior or interior plastering, plain and ornamental,
when done with stucco, cement, and lime mortars or patent materials, artificial
marble work, composition work in all its branches, the covering of all walls,
ceilings, soffits, piers, columns, or any part of a construction of any sort when
covered with any plastic material in the usual methods of plastering, is the
work of the plasterer.
“ Marble mosaic and terrazzo work.—Marble mosaic Venetian enamel, and
terrazzo, the cutting and assembling of art ceramic, glass mosaic, the casting
of all terrazzo in shops and mills.
“All scratch coat on walls and ceilings where mosaic and terrazzo is to be
applied shall be done by plasterers, with an allowance of one-half inch bed to
be conceded to mosaic workers.
“All bedding above concrete floors where mosaic and terrazzo is to be applied
shall be the work of the mosaic and terrazzo workers.
“All terrazzo finished (rustic) or rough washed for interior or exterior of
building shall be set by mosaic and terrazzo workers.
“ (Jutting and assembling of art ceramic and glass mosaic comes under the
jurisdiction of the mosaic workers, and the setting of same shall be done by
tile layers.
“ Tile layers* work.—The laying and setting of all tile where used for floors,
walls, ceilings, walks, promenade roofs, all promenade tile, when laid in as­
phalt or mastic or kindred composition, and over a sub-base or foundation of
cement mortar, stair treads, stair risers, facings, hearths, fireplaces, and deco­
rative inserts, together with any marble plinths, thresholds, or window stools
used in connection with any tile work. Also to prepare and set all concrete,
cement, brickwork, or other foundation or materials that may be required
properly to set and complete such work. The setting and bedding of all tiling,
stone, marble, composition, glass mosaic, or other materials forming the fac­
ing, hearth, or fireplace of a mantel, or the mantel complete, together with the
setting of all cement, brickwork, or other material required in connection with
the above work. Also the building, shaping, forming, construction, or repairing
of all fireplace work, whether in connection with a mantel, hearth, or facinf
and the setting and preparing of all material, such as cement plaster, wort;.;




14

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

brickwork, ironwork, or other materials necessary for the proper and ife con­
struction and completion of such work, except that a mantel made exclusively
of brick shall be conceded to be bricklayers’ work.”
Government.—“ The powers of this union shall be executive, legislative and
judicial. The government and superintendence of subordinate unions shall be
vested in this union as the supreme head of all unions in its jurisdiction. It
shall be the ultimate tribunal to which all matters of general importance to
the welfare of the several unions and the members thereof shall be referred
for adjustment and its decisions thereon shall be final and conclusive. To it
shall belong the power to determine the customs and usages in regard to all
matters in relation to the fellowship of the craft.”
All legislative powers shall be reserved to this union duly convened in ses­
sion, and shall extend to every case of legislation not delegated to or reserved
for subordinate unions.
All the executive and judiciary powers of this union, when not in session,
shall be vested in the executive officers, the president, first vice president,
secretary and treasurer.
The president “shall have a general supervision of the interests of this union
as the supreme executive officer.”
The executive board, composed of the third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh,
eighth, ninth, and tenth vice presidents, “ shall have entire control of all execu­
tive business and the official journal of this union when not in session; viz,
all grievances relating to and all strikes and lockouts, the settlement of all dis­
putes between employers or exchanges and members of this union or subordi­
nate unions,” and shall have “ entire control over all judicial business of the
international union when not in session.”
2. State and provincial conferences: Chartered by the international union
when two-thirds of the locals of a State or Province affiliate.
“ Each State or provincial conference shall regulate all details and construe
the proper definition of practical masonry in its several branches.” “Confer­
ences shall also regulate their own apprentice laws, subject to the general
laws,” and shall have power “to establish and maintain beneficial or mortuary
funds for the benefit of their members.” .
3. District councils: “ Where there are two or more unions in any city or
town each union shall be required to elect or appoint three delegates whose
duties shall be to establish a uniform rate of wages, initiation fee, and hours
of labor, together with rules and regulations under which all can work in har­
mony. The body thus convened shall be known as the executive committee, to
which shall be referred the construction of all general working laws for all
branches of the trade for such city or town.”
4. Local unions.—Subordinate: “ Powers reserved to subordinate unions:
To regulate its rate of wages; its rate for legitimate overtime work; to estab­
lish beneficial or mortuary funds; to establish measures and regulate the de­
tails as to joint arbitration; to designate what constitutes an emergency as
to working overtime; to regulate by details questions that may arise as to what
constitutes masonry; as to affiliating with other trades or building councils;
to define the difference between contractors and journeymen; to define its local
(territorial) jurisdiction and operate its area of territory; to establish and
maintain a strike fund,” subject to the provisions of the constitution of the
international union.
5. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Applicant must be “ a practical bricklayer,
stonemason, plasterer, marble mason or tile layer, and competent to command
existing scale of wages for work,” and must be a citizen or have declared
legal intention to become a citizen of the country in which he works.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ It being impossible for the international union
to formulate and maintain a general apprentice law within its jurisdiction, it
hereby grants to each subordinate union the power to regulate its own ap­
prentice laws” subject to certain restrictions:
“ Every apprentice shall be registered with the international union at the
time of his indenture, * * * a register number * * * to be assigned to the ap­
prentice until the day of his initiation.
“ No subordinate union shall be allowed to indenture apprentices to jour­
neymen. Sons of members of the Bricklayers, Masons, and Plasterers Inter­
national Union shall be exempt from this rule.




BUILDING TRADES

15

“Each and every apprentice binding himself to serve a stated term shall be
required to fill his contract with his employer or leave the business entirely.
“All regularly assigned apprentices shall be required to serve not less than
three years.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by committees of local unions and local employers.
International officers are called upon to assist in negotiations if agreement
can not be reached locally.
A supplementary agreement is made between international officers and con­
tractors operating in more than one city.
Contracts cover preferential union shop, hours, hourly rates and overtime
pay; must provide for joint arbitration boards.
Hours: Constitutional maximum, nine hours; eight hours in most agree­
ments.
Benefits.—Strike; pension (old age and disability, including widow over 60
years of age of member drawing or entitled at time of death to draw old age
or disability pension); mortuary.
Official organ.—The Bricklayer, Mason and Plasterer.
Headquarters.—No. 1417 K Street NW., Washington, D. C.
Organization.—State conferences: Arkansas; California; Colorado; Con­
necticut; Illinois; Indiana; Iowa; Kansas; Maine; Massachusetts; Michigan;
Minnesota; Montana; New Jersey and Delaware; New York; Ohio; Oklahoma;
Pennsylvania ; Rhode Island; Texas; Virginia; Washington and Oregon; West
Virginia; Wisconsin. Provincial conferences: Ontario.
Local unions: Divided into craft groups in cities and large centers where
there are a sufficient number to maintain separate organizations (i. e. brick­
layers, tile layers, plasterers, marble masons, stone masons, etc.) : United
States—Alabama, 7; Arizona, 3; Arkansas, 2; California, 26; Colorado, 9;
Connecticut, 22; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 3; Florida, 23; Georgia,
13; Idaho, 4; Illinois, 71; Indiana, 48; Iowa, 25; Kansas, 22; Kentucky, 14;
Louisiana, 7; Maine, 12; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts, 37; Michigan, 39; Minne­
sota. 23; Mississippi, 10; Missouri, 22; Montana, 9; Nebraska, 10; Nevada, 2;
New Hampshire, 7; New Jersey, 43; New Mexico, 1; New York, 69; North
Carolina, 11; North Dakota, 4; Ohio, 61; Oklahoma, 21; Oregon, 6; Pennsyl­
vania, 72; Rhode Island, 7; South Carolina, 10; South Dakota, 5; Tennessee,
12; Texas, 33; Utah, 4; Vermont, 4; Virginia, 8; Washington, 10; West Vir­
ginia, 13; Wisconsin, 28; Wyoming, 5. Canal Zone, 1; Porto Rico, 1. Canada—
Alberta, 4; British Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 2; New Brunswick, 3; Ontario,
29; Quebec, 5; Saskatchewan, 3. Total, 954.
Membership.—103,600.
BRIDGE, STRUCTURAL AND ORNAMENTAL IRON WORKERS,
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Pittsburgh, Pa., on February 4, 1896, by local unions of six large
cities, which merged to form the International Association of Bridge and
Structural Iron Workers.
The 1914 convention extended the jurisdiction of the union and changed its
name to International Association of Bridge, Structual, and Ornamental Iron
Workers and Pile Drivers. This move brought about a dispute with the United
Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners over the locals of pile drivers con­
cerned, and resulted in the suspension of the bridge workers* union from the
American Federation of Labor. It then relinquished the locals of pile drivers
to the United Brotherhood and dropped “pile drivers” from the new title, re­
taining, however, the claim to the ornamental-iron workers. The association
was reinstated, but the American Federation of Labor has never recognized
the extension of jurisdiction or the title used by the international association.
So far as its American Federation of Labor charter is concerned it is still the
International Association of Bridge and Structural Iron Workers.
Objects.—“ The objects of the international association shall be to encourage
and develop a higher standard of skill; to cultivate feelings of friendship
among the craft; to equitably distribute opportunities of employment; to secure
by legal and proper means pay commensurate with the hazard, physical and
mental taxation and exhaustion and average life endured by its members in
performing the services of the trade; to discourage piecework and promote
safe and reasonable methods of work; to cultivate the moral, intellectual, and




16

HANDBOOK OF AMEBICAN TRADE-UNIONS

social conditions for the well-being of its members, their families and depen­
dents, and in the interest of a higher standard of citizenship.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The fabrication, erection, and construction of all iron
and steel, ornamental lead, bronze, brass, copper and aluminum; reinforced
structures or parts thereof; bridges, viaducts, inclines, dams, docks, dredges,
vessels, locks, gates, aqueducts, reservoirs, spillways, flumes, caissons, coffer­
dams, subways, tunnels, cableways, tramways, monorails, blast furnaces, ovens,
cupolas, smoke conveyors, penstocks, flagpoles, drums, shaftings, shoring, fur
and storage rooms, fans and hot rooms, stacks, bunkers, conveyors, dumpers,
elevators, vats, enamel tanks and vats, tanks, towers, pans, hoppers, plates,
anchors, caps, corbells, lintels, Howe and combination trusses, grillage and
foundation work; all grating, bucks, partitions, hanging ceilings, hangers,
clips, brackets, flooring, floor construction and domes, rolling shutters, curtains,
frames, kalameined and iron doors, cast tiling, duct and trench frames and
plates; all wire work, railings, including pipe, guards, fencing, grill work, side­
walk and vault lights, skylights, roofs, canopies, marquise, awnings, elevator
and dumb-waiter inclosures, elevator cars, tracks, faces, aprons, operating de­
vices, sash, frames, fronts, lockers, racks, bookstacks, tables and shelving; metal
furniture, seats, chutes, escalators, stairways, ventilators, boxes, fire escapes,
signs; jail and cell work, safes, vaults, safe-deposit boxes; corrugated steel
when attached to steel frames, frames in support of boilers; material altered
in the field, such as framing, cutting, betiding, drilling, burning, and welding,
including by acetylene gas and electric machines; metal forms and false work
pertaining to concrete construction; sectional water tube and tubular boilers
and stokers; traveling sheaves, vertical hydraulic elevators; bulkheads, skip
hoists; the making and installation of all articles made of wire and fibrous
rope; all rigging in shipyards, vessels, and Government departments: false
work, travelers, scaffolding, pile drivers, sheet piling, derricks, cranes, the
erection, installation, handling and operating of same on all forms of construc­
tion work; all railroad bridge work, including their maintenance; the moving,
hoisting and lowering of machinery, and placing of same on foundations, in­
cluding in bridges, cranes, derricks, buildings, piers, and vessels; the loading,
necessary maintenance, erection, installation, removal, wrecking, and dis­
mantling of all of the above housesmith work, and submarine diving in con­
nection with or about same.
“ The above claims are subject to trade agreements and final decisions of
the American Federation of Labor.”
Government.—Executive council, consists of president, secretary-treasurer,
and nine vice presidents. The general executive board consists of president,
secretary-treasurer and a third member selected by them from among the
nine vice presidents.
The president “ shall exercise a general supervision over the affairs of the
international association * * * shall appoint all officers and committees
♦ * * shall decide all points of law and have power to suspend any sub­
ordinate body for violation of constitution and laws * * ♦ and with the
approval of the general executive board shall have full power to effect a
settlement of any strike.”
The executive council is the court of appeal from decisions of the general
executive board.
2. District councils: Where two or more locals exist in any one city or lo­
cality it shall be mandatory for them to form a district council or joint execu­
tive board for the control of all local unions in the jurisdiction.
3. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution and regulations imposed by in­
ternational office.
4. Convention: Held biennially unless otherwise ordered by referendum.
Elects general officers; enacts legislation. Constitutional amendments adopted
by convention must be submitted to referendum. Legislation and amendments
also by initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ To be admitted to membership in any local
union of the international association one must be a practical workman versed
in the duties of some branch of the trade, of good moral character and compe­
tent to command standard wages. Any person or member known to hold
membership in the Industrial Workers of the World, the One Big Union, or
the Ku Klux Klan, or who by act or deed does or says anything in furtherance
of the objects or welfare of these organizations, or in any organization whose
purpose, aims or objects are contrary to the purposes, aims and objects of




BUILDING TRADES

17

the international association, shall not be eligible to membership in the
association.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ There shall be admitted to membership in
the international association men who can read and write, of not less than
17 nor more than 30 years of age, for the purpose of acquiring a practical
knowledge of the various branches of the trade; who shall, to qualify as jour­
neymen, serve an apprenticeship of two years.
“ The number of apprentices in a local union shall be limited to the yearly
average membership of the local union.
“ Apprentices on construction work may be employed at the ratio of not more
rhan one apprentice to every seven journeymen employed by any employer.
•*Apprentices on ornamental and finishing work may be employed at the
ratio of not more than one apprentice to every four journeymen.”
Apprentices must pass a satisfactory examination before being admitted to
journeyman membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, with the advice and subject to the
approval of the general executive board; generally deal with employers’
associations.
Agreements cover hours, hourly rates, overtime regulations, and pay, and
usually contain an arbitration clause.
Benefits.—Old-age and disability pension; death.
Official organ.—The Bridgemen’s Magazine.
Headquarters.—Syndicate Trust Building, St. Louis, Mo.
Organization.—District councils: Chicago and vicinity; Cincinnati and
vicinity; New York City and vicinity; western New York (headquarters at
Syracuse); St. Louis and vicinity; St. Paul-Minneapolis and vicinity; Texas
(headquarters, Galveston).
Local unions—mixed unions mostly; separate organizations of branches only
in large centers (navy yard riggers, etc.): United States—Alabama, 2 ; Ari­
zona, 2; Arkansas, 1; California, 8; Colorado, 1; Connecticut, 1; District of
Columbia, 2; Florida, 2; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 14; Indiana, 6; Iowa, 3; Kansas,
2; Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 2; Maine, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 5; Michi­
gan, 1; Minnesota, 3; Missouri, 4; Montana, 2; Nebraska, 2; New Jersey, 7;
New York, 12; North Carolina, 1; Ohio, 7; Oklahoma, 2; Oregon, 1; Penn­
sylvania, 7; Rhode Island, 1; Tennessee, 2; Texas, 7; Utah, 1; Virginia, 3;
Washington, 4; West Virginia, 2; Wisconsin, 2; Wyoming, 1. Canada—Alberta,
1; British Columbia, 1; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 5; Quebec, 1. Total, 136.
Railroad system locals: “ There shall be issued to the bridgemen working
directly for railroad companies a separate charter which shall be designated
railway system charter. * * * Railway locals shall have the right to move
their charters with them throughout and over their respective systems and
hold their meetings likewise. The jurisdiction of systems locals shall extend
to all of the work being done directly by their respective railroad companies.”
Santa Fe system local (headquarters Topeka, Kans.); Chicago, Rock Island
& Pacific system local (headquarters, Chicago, 111.)
Membership.—18,350.

CARPENTERS AND JOINERS OF AMERICA, UNITED BROTHER­
HOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., on August 12, 1881. Efforts toward national
organization of carpenters were made in 1854 and again in 1867. Although
both of these movements failed, local organizations of carpenters were main­
tained in cities and in some cases were fairly powerful. The third movement
toward consolidation of the various scattered groups of organized carpenters
came through a four-page journal called “ The Carpenter,” which commenced
publication in St. Louis, Mo., in May, 1881. After three months of agitation
on the part of the journal a conference was held in Chicago on August 8,
1881, attended by 36 delegates representing 12 local unions, with a combined
membership of a little more than 2,000. At this meeting was founded the
Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiuers of America, the word “ America ” spe­
cifically including Canada and other British dominions as well as the United
States.
The United Order of American Carpenters and Joiners, a local body of
New York City and vicinity, which had been in existence for years and had
grown powerful in its own field, remained outside the newly formed brother­




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

hood until 1888. Amalgamation was then accomplished through compromises
and concessions which involved the retention by the New York group of a
degree of its own identity and a merging of the two names. Thus the organi­
zation became the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.
Woodworkers not in the building trades were organized into two groups—
the International Furniture Workers’ Union, founded in 1873, and the Machine
Wood Workers’ International Union, organized in 1890. In 1895 these two
organizations united, becoming the Amalgamated Wood Workers’ International
Union, and affiliated with the American Federation of Labor.
Jurisdictional disputes over carpentry shop and mill work began between
the two organizations, and continued with increasing intensity, coming to a
head in 1903, when A. F. of L. officials tried to bring about an amicable ad­
justment. This effort did not succeed and the United Brotherhood continued
its organization work among cabinet makers and shop craftsmen, making
serious inroads on the membership of the rival union. From 1909 to 1911 re­
peated efforts were made to amalgamate the two organizations. Finally the
1911 convention of the A. F. of L. ordered the Amalgamated Wood Workers to
come to terms with the United Brotherhood as drawn up by representatives of
the two unions. Revocation of their charter was threatend as the penalty
for noncompliance. By that time the membership of the A. W. W. was less
than it had been at any previous time in its history. In April, 1912, the or­
ganization merged with the United Brotherhood under an agreement which
was in effect absorption.
Prior to the founding of the original brotherhood in 1881 the Amalgamated
Society of Carpenters and Joiners of Great Britain established an American
branch. While it was a fairly large and successful organization, it never had
the following which the brotherhood gained, chiefly, perhaps, because it wap
primarily a beneficiary society rather than an aggressive trade-union. In 1890
it was chartered by the American Federation of Labor as an affiliated organ­
ization, although clearly dual to the previously chartered United Brotherhood
of Carpenters and Joiners. The story of the relations between these two
organizations is essentially the same as in the case of the woodworkers. The
United Brotherhood, with the help of the American Federation of Labor, and
later of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L., fought persistently
for amalgamation, using the slogan “ One trade, one organization. ” Efforts
to bring the two groups together under an agreement which would preserve
the identity and autonomy of both failed repeatedly. In 1912 the Amalgamated
Society refused to participate in further conferences, and its charter was
revoked by the American Federation of Labor in August, 1912. In 1913 some­
thing in the nature of a truce between the two organizations was arrived at,
by the terms of which the United Brotherhood asserted jurisdiction over mem­
bers of the Amalgamated Society in trade matters, leaving to the rival organ­
ization its nominal membership and its beneficiary features. This arrange­
ment has resulted in practical absorption of the Amalgamated Society by the
brotherhood.
When a jurisdictional award granted to the sheet-metal workers the right
to install metal trim, sash, and doors in buildings, the United Brotherhood
refused to accept the decision. As a disciplinary measure the Building Trades
Department suspended the carpenters in 1910. Both the Building Trades De­
partment and the American Federation of Labor conventions .in 1911 ordered
the reinstatement of the brotherhood. By a referendum vote the organization
accepted reinstatement in 1912. As an affiliated organization it appealed from
the decision on the matter of hollow trim. The original decision was affirmed,
however, and in 1914 the United Brotherhod of Carpenters and Joiners with­
drew from the Building Trades Department and has remained outside it ever
since, although retaining its relations with the American Federation of Labor.
Objects.—“ The objects of the United Brotherhood are: To discourage piece­
work, to encourage an apprentice system and a higher standard of skill, to
cultivate feelings of friendship among the craft, to assist each other to secure
employment, to reduce the hours of daily labor, to secure adequate pay for
our work, to establish a weekly pay day, to furnish aid in cases of death or
permanent disability, and by legal and proper means to elevate the moral,
intellectual and social conditions of ail our members, and to improve the
trade. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada, and New­
foundland.




BUILDING TRADES

19

Trade jurisdiction.—All branches of the carpenter and joiner trade, specifi­
cally, “ all milling, fashioning, joining, assembling, erecting, fastening, or dis­
mantling of all material of wood, hollow metal, or fiber, or of products com­
posed in part of wood, hollow metal, or fiber, the laying of all cork and compo,
all asphalt shingles, the erecting and dismantling of machinery and the manu­
facture of all wood materials where the skill, knowledge, and training of a
carpenter are required, either through the operation of machine or hand tools.
“ Our claim of jurisdiction therefore, extends over the following divisions
and subdivisions of the trade: Carpenters and joiners, railroad carpenters,
bench hands, stair builders, millwrights, furniture workers, shipwrights and
boat builders, reed and rattan workers, ship carpenters, joiners and calkers,
cabinet makers, floor laying, box makers, bridge, dock, and wharf carpenters,
car building, and all those engaged in the running of woodworking machinery. '*
Government.—General executive board, composed of general president, first
general vice president, secretary, treasurer, and one member from each of the
seven territorial districts, decides “ all points of law, all grievances and appeals
submitted to them in legal form, and their decisions shall be binding until
reversed by a convention” ; has “ power to authorize strikes * * ♦ enter
into agreement with sister organizations with reference to jurisdiction over
work; or a general offensive and defensive alliance * * * make agreements
with employers covering our jurisdiction.,, It also constitutes a board of
trustees for the management and control of brotherhood property and funds.
2. State and provincial councils, which are federations of local unions within
the State or Province, “ have power to make laws to govern the local unions,
district councils and the membership of the brotherhood.” Where such councils
are “ composed of as many as five local unions of the State or Province, repre­
senting 55 per cent of the membership, it shall be obligatory on all local unions
within the State or Province to affiliate."
3. District councils: “ Where there are two or more local unions located in
one city they must be represented in a carpenters' district council composed
exclusively of delegates from local unions of the United Brotherhood, and they
shall be governed by such laws and trade rules as shall be adopted by the
district council and approved by the local unions and the first general vice
president. District councils may be formed in localities other than cities where
two or more local unions in adjoining territory request it, or when in the
opinion of the general president the good of the United Brotherhood requires it."
They shall “ have power to make by-laws, working and trade agreements for
the government of their local unions and the membership of the United
Brotherhood working in their districts * * * have power to enforce work­
ing and trade rules in their respective localities. * * * They shall adopt
by-laws and rules governing local, strike, and other donations, except sick dona­
tions, and shall provide for and hold trials of all violations of trade rules."
Local unions other than those working on building material shall not have a
voice, vote, or delegate in any district council of the building tradesmen, but
may establish their own district councils under by-laws approved by the first
general vice president.
4. Local unions: 44Local unions where no district council exists shall have
the power to make by-laws and trade rules for their government and the mem­
bers of the United Brotherhood working under their jurisdiction,” and “ shall
have power to regulate and make payment of sick donations.”
5. Convention: Held quadrennially; nominates general officers. Election of
officers by referendum. Constitution and laws amendable only by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Citizenship or declaration of citizenship inten­
tions. Applicants for beneficiary membership must be under 60 years of age.
“ A member can enter into the business of contracting providing he pays the
union scale of wages, obeys trade rules and hires none but members of the
United Brotherhood, and that he is not and does not become a member o f any
contractors’ or employers’ .association."
Apprenticeship regulations.—-'‘An apprentice of good-moral character between
the ages of 17 and 22 years may be admitted to membership as a semibeneficial
member, and after having served four years as such and qualifying * * *
he shall be classed as a full beneficial member.
“An employer who employs two or more journeymen may have one apprentice,
but the number may be increased at such rate as the district council or local
union having jurisdiction may decide."
Agreements.—In-large centers agreements are -ipade between the executive
officers of the district council and the employers’ association, in building'work;




20

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

in mill and shop work, and in localities having no district council, agreements
are generally negotiated by the local union with the individual employer.
Agreements cover hours, hourly rates, and apprentice regulations.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; total disability; funeral (member and wife) ;
sick (by locals only).
Property in Florida acquired in 1925 to found a home for the superannuated.
Official organ.—The Carpenter.
Headquarters.—Carpenters* Building, Indianapolis, Ind.
Organization.—Territorial districts.
District No. 1. Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode
Island, Connecticut, New York, Provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
District No. 2. New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, District of Columbia,
Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
District No. 3. Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
District No. 4. North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama,
Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
District No. 5. Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa,
Kansas, Missouri, Texas, and Oklahoma.
District No. 6. Washington, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, California,
Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and Alaska.
District No. 7. Dominion of Canada.
State councils:
Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana,
Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, New York,
North Carolina, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah,
Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Provincial councils:
Ontario and Quebec.
District councils:
Alabama—Birmingham, Mobile, Montgomery, and Muscle Shoals.
Arkansas—Little Rock.
California—Bay Counties (San Francisco and vicinity) ; Fresno County;
Los Angeles; Monterey and vicinity; Sacramento; San Diego; San
Joaquin; San Luis Obispo and vicinity; Santa Clara Valley.
Colorado—Denver and vicinity.
Connecticut—Bridgeport and vicinity; New Haven; New York, New
Haven & Hartford.
District of Columbia—Washington (includes Alexandria, Va.).
Florida—Brevard County; East Coast (Miami and vicinity); Jackson­
ville and vicinity; Pensacola; Volusia County; West Coast (Tampa);
West Palm Beach County.
Illinois—Chicago and vicinity; Du Page County; Fox River Valley (Au­
rora, Batavia, and St. Charles) ; Peoria; Tri-City (Rock Island, Moline,
and Davenport, Iow a ); Will County (Joliet).
Indiana—Fall Cities (New Albany and vicinity); Indianapolis; Lake
County (Gary, Hammond, etc.) ; St. Joseph (South Bend and Elkhart).
Iowa—Cedar Rapids.
Kansas—Pittsburg and vicinity.
Kentucky—Fall Cities (Louisville); Kenton and Campbell Counties (Cov­
ington).
Louisiana—New Orleans.
Maine—Portland.
Maryland—Baltimore.
Massachusetts—Berkshire County (Pittsfield and vicinity); Boston; Cape
Cod; Central Massachusetts (Hudson, Framingham, and Marlboro);
Fall River; Holyoke; Lawrence; Lowell; Middlesex (Arlington, Wake­
field, Woburn, Winchester, Reading, and Stoneham); New Bedford.
Newton; New York, New Haven & Hartford; Norfolk County; North
Bristol; Northern Massachusetts (Fitchburg, Leominster); North Shore
(Salem, Gloucester, etc.); South Shore (Quincy, Braintree, etc.);
Springfield; Taunton; and Worcester.
Michigan—Detroit; Grand Rapids; Tri-County (Bay City, Saginaw, and
Flint).
Minnesota—Twin City.
Missouri—Kansas City (includes Kansas City, Kans.) ; Jasper County
(Jopl.'n); St. Louis (includes East St. Louis and other river towns in
Illinois).




BUILDING TRADES

21

District councils—Continued.
New Hampshire—Manchester; Portsmouth and vicinity (includes York.
Me.).
New Jersey—Atlantic County (Atlantic City and vicinity); Bergen County
(Hackensack); Burlington County; Elizabeth and vicinity; Essex
County (Newark, Orange, Montclair, e tc.); Hudson County (Jersey
City and Hoboken); Middlesex County (Perth Amboy, New Brunswick,
etc.) ; Monmouth County (Asbury Park, Long Branch, Belmar, Keansburg, etc.) ; Morris and Union Counties; Passaic; and Paterson.
New York—Adirondack (Glens Falls, Hudson Falls, Fort Edward, and
Lake George); Albany; Batavia; Buffalo; Elmira; Fulton County
(Gloversville, Johnstown, etc.); Mohawk Valley (Utica, Herkimer,
Oneida, Ilion, etc.); Mountain Top (Saranac Lake and vicinity); New
York City and vicinity; New York City Furniture Workers; North
Hempstead (Great Neck and Mineola, L. I . ) ; Rochester, Rockland
County; South Shore (Long Island); Syracuse; Troy; and Westchester
County (Yonkers, etc.).
North Carolina—Charlotte.
Ohio—Cleveland; Dayton; Hamilton County (Cincinnati, includes Ken­
ton and Campbell Counties, Kentucky); Summit County (Akron and
vicinity).
Oklahoma—Oklahoma County and vicinity.
Orego#—Portland.
Pennsylvania—Central Pennsylvania (Berwick, Sunbury, Danville, etc.) ;
Delaware County (Chester, Media, and vicinity); Lehigh Valley (Allen­
town, Bethlehem, etc., includes Phillipsburg, N. J .) ; Lower Anthracite
Region (Shamokin, Mahanoy City, and vicinity); McKeesport; Middle
Anthracite (Hazleton and vicinity) ; Monongahela Valley (Charleroi.
Monessen, and vicinity); Montgomery County (Norristown, Pottstown,
and vicinity); Philadelphia; Pittsburgh; Shenango, and Beaver Valley
(New Castle, Sharon, and vicinity); Wyoming Valley (Wilkes-Barre
and vicinity).
Porto Rico—San Juan Territorial Council.
Rhode Island—Providence; Pawtucket and Central Falls.
South Carolina-—Charleston; Columbia.
Tennessee—Davidson County (Nashville and vicinity).
Texas—Jefferson County (Beaumont, Port Arthur, e tc.); Klebing and
Nueces (Kingsburg, Corpus Christi, and vicinity).
Utah—Salt Lake City.
Virginia—Tidewater (Portsmouth and Norfolk).
Washington—Seattle, King County, and vicinity; Skagit Valley (Belling­
ham, Sedro-Woolley, and vicinity); Tacoma.
West Virginia—Ohio Valley (Wheeling; includes Bellaire, Ohio, and vicin­
ity).
Wisconsin—Fox River Valley (Oshkosh, Neenah and Menasha, Fond du
Lac, Green Bay, etc.); Milwaukee; Wisconsin River Valley (Wausau.
Stevens Point, and vicinity).
Canada—
British Columbia—Vancouver.
Manitoba—Winnipeg.
Ontario—Frontier (Niagara Falls, St. Catherines, Thorold, e tc.);
Hamilton; London; Toronto.
Quebec—Montreal; Quebec and vicinity.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 18; Arizona, 9; Arkansas, 18; Cali­
fornia, 128; Colorado, 23; Connecticut, 44; Delaware, 2; District of Colum­
bia, 3; Florida, 60; Georgia, 14; Idaho, 13; Illinois, 189; Indiana, 67; Iowa,
37; Kansas, 34; Kentucky, 34; Louisiana, 15; Maine, 21; Maryland, 9;
Massachusetts, 129; Michigan, 46; Minnesota, 28; Mississippi, 12; Missouri,
51; Montana, 21; Nebraska, 13; Nevada, 4; New Hampshire, 15; New Jersey,
112; New Mexico, 9; New York, 185; Ohio, 113; Oklahoma, 45; Oregon, 30;
Pennsylvania, 175; Rhode Island, 19; South Carolina, 11; South Dakota, 3;
Tennessee, 22; Texas, 95; Utah, 8; Vermont, 7; Virginia, 12; Washington, 48;
West Virginia, 31; Wisconsin, 48; Wyoming, 14; Canal Zone, 1; Hawaiian
Islands, 1; Porto Rico, 14; Virgin Island, 1. Canada—Alberta, 3; British
Columbia, 8; Manitoba, 3; New Brunswick, 1; Ontario, 48; Quebec, 25; Sas­
katchewan, 3; Nova Scotia, 3. Total, 2,155.
Membership.—376,400.




22

HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TBADE-UNIONS

ELECTRICAL WORKERS, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in St. Louis, Mo., in November, 1891. Five cities—-St. Louis,
Evansville, and Indianapolis, Ind.; Toledo, Ohio, and Chicago, 111.—were repre­
sented by delegates of existing organizations of linemen and wiremen chartered
under the American Federation of Labor. Milwaukee, Duluth, and Philadel­
phia designated members of the St. Louis union to act as proxy for their or­
ganizations. Thus was formed the National Brotherhood of Electrical Work­
ers of America.
By 1899 the organization was spreading to Canada, and at the convention of
1899 the jurisdiction was expanded and the name changed to International
Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
A secession movement in 1905-6 disrupted the organization, but in 1914 the
factions reunited.
Objects.—“ The objects of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Work­
ers are, namely, to organize all electrical workers into local unions, to establish
an apprenticeship system, to maintain a higher standard of skill, to encourage
the formation of schools of instruction in local unions for teaching the prac­
tical application of electricity and for trade* education generally, to cultivate
feelings of friendship among the men of our craft, to settle all disputes be­
tween employers and employees (if possible), to assist each other in sickness
and distress, to secure employment, to reduce the hours of dailj* labor, to
secure adequate pay for our work, and by legal and proper means elevate the
moral, intellectual, and social condition of our members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Territories, Dominion of Can­
ada, Cuba, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Electrical workers in the jurisdiction of the Inter­
national Brotherhood of Electrical Workers shall be divided into and char­
tered under four general branches, namely: Outside electrical workers, inside
electrical workers, shop electrical workers, and railroad electrical workers.
“ Outside electrical workers.—Outside electrical workers shall include line­
men, outside electrical inspectors, outside cable splicers, trimmers, maintenance
men, aerial and underground cable men, and combination trouble men work­
ing for distributing companies, load dispatchers, meter men, station attendants,
and switchboard operators in central lighting and power stations, telephone
switchboard operators and trouble men working for distributing companies, lire
and police operators, maintenance and battery men, signal men, electrical lay­
out and operating engineers and electrical rail engineers and electrical rail
grinders, foremen, groundmen, helpers, and others employed on line-construction work. They have jurisdiction over the following work:
“ Installing and erecting all poles, steel and concrete towers and supports
of all kinds for the carrying or support of aerial wires or cables or wireless
systems, aerial wires and cables on- poles and from poles to buildings over or
outside of buildings when any fixture attached to buildings ig used in place
of poles; installing and laying of all fiber, clay, and concrete ducts, pump logs,
laterals, pneumatic tubes for transmission of messages by air pressure or
air suction, underground conduits or raceways used for electrical wires or
cables, installing transformers and connecting secondary wires to houses, wires,
installing, pulling in, or placing and racking of cables and wires in underground
conduits, ducts, or raceways up to first point of distribution within first bulk­
head or partition in buldings, hanging streamers across street between build­
ings or between buildings and arches in street, where messenger or guy wires
are required for support when fed and controlled from street, series arc
wiring where fed and controlled from street, and when same remains property
of distributing company, fire alarm, burglar alarm, district and police work
signal systems, trimming, cleaning, patroling and repairing lamps, maintenance
on thoroughfare and public park illuminations, cable splicing, cable testing,
racking, bonding, connecting, clamping, and insulating of all cables, installing
and connecting of all transformers in manholes, setting and testing of meters,
load dispatchers when employed on work covered in this jurisdiction, main­
taining and operating motors on concrete mixers when used, preparing material
for outside electrical work, operating dynamos, switchboards, and all other
apparatus in central lighting and power stations when done by distributing
companies; painting of poles, towers, fire and police boxes, pedestals, and all
other apparatus attached thereto, and all cutting and channeling made neces­




BUILDING TKADES

23

sary by tlie introduction of electrical devices and materials herein specified,
installing and maintaining of all lines of work in public, private, or amusement
parks, installing and maintaining of all trolley work or catenary work, either
overhead, underground, or tunnels, running all feed wires for same and feed
wires for third rail and monorail, and primary work for electric lighting, ex­
cept when installed in conduits or in or on buildings, inspection of electric
equipment herein specified.
“ Inside electrical work.—Inside electrical workers shall include wiremen,
cranemen, and crane repair men, signalmen, load dispatchers, trouble men,
switchboard operators and erectors, operating engineers, inside cable splicers,
telephone instrument, switchboard, and telephone exchange installers, motionpicture-machine operators, inspectors, fixture hangers and shopmen, bridge
operators, crane and elevator operators, meter testers and installers, battery
men, fire and burglar alarm installers and repair men, marine, radio, telegraph
electrical workers. They shall have jurisdiction over the following work:
“ Wiring in and wiring and installing all conduits, raceways, and supports,
moldings and metal trimming when it becomes part of the electrical system of
the building, and cables and wires in all buildings and structures, subways,
tunnels, mines, ships, bridges, arches and cars, installing, repairing, wiring,
and maintaining electric charging plants, vehicles, batteries, and electric start­
ing and ignition systems, automobiles and electrical locomotives, installing,
operating, repairing, and maintaining isolated block plants, electric equip­
ment on private property, pump logs, underground conduits and wires for same
except line work; switchboard operators and load dispatchers not covered in
other jurisdictions, installing electrical switch and signal apparatus and all
wiring pertaining thereto; manufacturing, repairing, installing, maintaining
and operating of all electrical machines and devices and drills not in other
jurisdiction in this constitution, electric bells, flashlight systems, and all ap­
paratus and fixtures used in connection therewith, hanging drop cords and
wiring show cases, installing annunciators and thermostat and electrical heat­
ing systems, automatic controlling devices, installing wireless systems, instal­
ling and operating all lamps for moving-picture or projection machines, erect­
ing, assembling, wiring, and hanging of all electric decorations and signs and
connecting same to service wires, hanging streamers across streets between
buildings or between buildings and arches in street, except line work, main­
taining, erecting, operating, and installing electric motors used on conveyors,
bridges, concrete mixers, air compressors, motor generators, pumps, hoists and
elevators for carrying passengers or material of any kind, the work of operat­
ing elevators, temporary or otherwise, shall be performed by elevator operators,
members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers; installing
and operating motors used for floor surfacing machines, installing, maintain­
ing of all dictaphones, ducts, and raceways in buildings, fire or burglar alarm
work except line work, installing and maintaining telephone exchanges and
all telephone work, beginning at first point of distribution or first terminal
inside of building or property lines, installing all speaking and voice tubes, in­
stalling, maintaining, and operating all radio and electric equipment in all
ships, lighters, and floating cranes, installing, maintaining and operating elec­
trical devices in theaters and amusement parks, and all electrical stage devices
necessary for the operation of shows, installing transformers not covered in
other jurisdiction, wiring, assembling, hanging, and connecting all electric, gas,
and combination fixtures, all cutting and channeling made necessary by the
introduction of all electrical devices and material herein specified.
“ Telephone electrical workers.—This jurisdiction covers the male telephone
workers employed by telephone companies and actually engaged in the inside
construction, installation, maintenance, and repair work associated with tele­
phones and telephone switchboards.
“ Railroad and Pullman electrical work.—Railroad and Pullman electrical
workers are those employed by railroad and Pullman companies and shall
have jurisdiction over all electric wiring and repairing, rebuilding, installing,
inspecting, maintaining, assembling, and dismantling of all electrical apparatus,
including all electric generators, switchboards, motors and controls, rheostats
and control, statis and rotary transformers, motor generators, electric meters,
electric headlights, and headlight generators, electric welding machines, stor­
age battery and axle lighting equipment, winding armatures, fields, magnet
coils, motors, starters; transformers and starting compensators, the slotting

103312°—26----- 3




24

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

of all commutators, all telegraph, telephone, signal, and power limiting and
indicating equipment, pole lines and supports for signal, telephone, and tele­
graph wires and cables, catenary, monorail, third rail, trolley conductors and
feed wires, overhead and underground; outside and inside wiring, including
all conduit, in and on buildings, yards, structures and on steam and electric
locomotives, passenger trains and motor cars, all rail bonding and testing,
and testing and calibrating of electrical instruments used on railroads, include
wiremen, fixture hangers, armature winders, metermen, electrical inspectors,
switchboard operators, generator attendants, motor attendants, substation at­
tendants, electric crane operators, cable splicers, linemen, groundmen, signal
men and signal maintainers, telegraph and telephone linemen and repairmen,
electric coal pier operators, electric bridge operators, and all other electrical
work on railroads.
“ It being provided, however, that under no circumstances shall railroad
electrical workers do any construction or reconstruction work where building
trades mechanics are doing work in connection with same.
“ Shop electrical work.—Shop electrical workers are those who make, assem­
ble, test, inspect, rebuild, and repair all electrical machines, switchboards, panel
boards, control boards, electrical devices and all electrical apparatus in manu­
facturing shops and shall have jurisdiction over the following:
“ The making, assembling, repairing, testing, and inspecting of armatures,
fields, generators, motors, coils, transformers, rheostats, dimmers, motor gen­
erators, convertors, reacting boxes and all generating devices, auto trans­
formers, compensators, welding and drilling machines, also operating cranes
in metal-trade shops.
“ The making and assembling, repairing, testing, inspecting, insulating, slot­
ting, trimming, cutting, and grinding commutators, and collector rings, also
making, forming, taping, insulating, setting and soldering of all armature,
stator or rotor coils, brazing, soldering, sweating and riveting or rotor short
circuiting rings.
“ The making, assembling, repairing, testing, and inspecting of all types of
controllers, starting boxes, and regulators, both manual and automatic, in­
cluding coils, segments, and contacts of all kinds. Gutting, grinding, making
and cabling of carbon, brass or copper brushes.
“ The making, assembling, repairing, testing and inspecting of all telegraph,
radio-telegraph, telephone, radio-telephone apparatus, both manual and auto­
matic, annunciators, musolophone, dictaphone, dictagraph, and all other call­
ing or communicating devices.
“ The making, assembling, repairing, testing, inspecting, laying out, wiring
and drilling of switchboards, panel boards, distributing centers, charging and
control boards, both manual and automatic, switches, fuses, fuse-blocks, cut­
outs, circuit breakers, and other safety devices of all descriptions.
“ The wiring, assembling, testing, repairing, and inspecting of all electrical
thermostats, stoves, ovens, irons, heaters, urns, and other heating and cooking
apparatus, either open coil, sheath wire or casting, vacuum cleaners, washing
and burnishing machines, lamp sockets, head lights, and spot lights.
“ The wiring, inspecting, repairing and testing of automobiles, street, ele­
vated and subway cars.
“ The casting, pasting, trimming and burning of plates, compounding, as­
sembling, charging and making of accumulators and storage batteries, both
primary and secondary, and all electrical work in connection with ignition
systems.
“ The making, assembling, repairing, testing, inspecting and calibrating of
all electrical instruments, vibrators, vibrating machines, medical batteries and
violet ray apparatus.
“ The making, assembling, repairing, testing, and inspecting of car switches,
limit switches, floor stops, door locks and other electrical devices for elevators
and hoisting machinery, and in case of units where impractical to move they
shall repair same on job, it being definitely understood that men who are em­
ployed in shops and doing what is known as combination electrical installation,
repair and maintenance work come under the jurisdiction of the inside elec­
trical workers.”
Government.—1. General officers are: President, secretary, treasurer, eight
vice presidents and nine elective members of the executive council. The presi­
dent is the chief administrative officer, with comprehensive powers. The vice
presidents are organizers. The executive council is a trial and audit board.




BUILDING TRADES

25

2. Local unions: Subordinate; laws and regulations imposed by the inter­
national brotherhood.
3. Convention: Biennial; enacts legislation and elects general officers. Con­
stitutional amendments by initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any electrical worker of good moral char­
acter not over 55 years of age nor less than 18 and of good sound health and
not afflicted with any disease or subject to any complaints liable to endanger
life ; who has worked for four years as an electrical worker; and who is com­
petent to command the general average wage, is eligible to membership in this
brotherhood as a journeyman member, provided he passes a satisfactory ex­
amination * * * and is found to be qualified in all respects.
“ Any electrical worker who is not able to qualify as a journeyman mem­
ber but who is otherwise eligible may be admitted as an apprentice, provided
he has worked three months at the trade.”
Applicants not meeting physical and age qualifications become nonbene­
ficiary members.
Female members: “ Any female engaged in the manufacture or operation
of any electrical apparatus or device may become a member of a local union.
Local unions composed of male and female electrical workers shall be classified
and chartered as local union, class B.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ Each local union shall provide ways and
means for governing their apprentices and helpers, either by admitting them
as members or registering them so that they will be under the jurisdiction and
control of the local union and not subservient to any other organization. All
apprentices one year or more with electrical experience in the local union shall
upon application through his local union be initiated in the International
Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
“ Each local union shall adopt its own apprenticeship system as the peculiar
conditions of each district may require.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions to cover separate branches of the
trade, except where several branch locals are employed by one concern when
joint agreements may be made to include all employees. Agreements call for
closed shop, 44-hour week, double time for overtime.
The National Council on Industrial Relations is a conciliation medium com­
posed of five representatives each of the brotherhood and of the National Asso­
ciation of Electrical Employers. Its services are used when local agreements
can not be reached or carried out.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; funeral. Female members are entitled to a
small funeral benefit.
Official organ.—The Journal of Electrical Workers and Operators.
Headquarters.—Machinists* Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—Local organizations only, classified as linemen, inside men,
trimmers, cranemen, cable splicers, fixture hangers, maintenance, shopmen,
power-house men, telephone operators, railroad, bridge operators, studio men.
United States—Alabama, 7; Arkansas, 3; Arizona, 5; California, 39; Colo­
rado, 6; Connecticut, 10; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 15;
Georgia, 3; Idaho, 2; Illinois, 46; Indiana, 28; Iowa, 22; Kansas, 9; Kentucky,
7; Louisiana, 8; Maine, 6; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts, 24; Michigan, 16;
Minnesota, 9; Mississippi, 2; Missouri, 11; Montana, 13; Nebraska, 3; Nevada,
3; New Hampshire, 4; New Jersey, 19; New Mexico, 1; New York, 54; North
Carolina, 5; North Dakota, 2; Ohio, 43; Oklahoma, 14; Oregpn, 5; Pennsyl­
vania. 41; Rhode Island, 5; South Carolina, 3; South Dakota, 1; Tennessee,
10; Texas, 25; Utah, 3; Virginia, 11; Washington, 13; West Virginia, 12; Wis­
consin, 19; Wyoming, 4; Canal Zone, 2. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Co­
lumbia, 4; Manitoba, 2; New Brunswick, 1; Nova Scotia, 2; Ontario, 10;
Quebec, 6; Saskatchewan, 1. Total, 629.
Membership.—140,000.
TELEPHONE 0PEBAT0BS’ DEPARTMENT
The Telephone Operators’ Department of the International Brotherhood of
Electrical Workers is an autonomous department within the brotherhood, hav­
ing jurisdiction and complete control over telephone operators. It was or­
ganized as a department in November, 1918. Previous to the establishment
of the department organization of telephone operators existed only as sub­
locals of local unions of electrical workers. The first of these to be chartered
by the international brotherhood was that organized in Boston in April, 1912.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

The officers of the department are president, vice president, secretary, and
treasurer. “ The department officers shall have the same jurisdiction over
affairs relating exclusively to the department which international officers have
over affairs relating to the brotherhood.”
Any telephone operator actually engaged in the trade is eligible to member­
ship. Chief operators are organized separately with the consent of the local
union.
The department pays a funeral benefit. Conventions are held every other
year, at which the general officers are elected. Amendments to constitution,
by-laws, and local rules, by referendum.
There are at present 24 local unions of telephone operators, with a total
membership of 6,000, as follows: California, 2; Illinois, 10; Indiana, 1; Massa­
chusetts, 3; Montana, 2; Ohio, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 3.
The headquarters of the Telelphone Operators' Department is Tremont Build­
ing, Boston, Mass.

ELEVATOR CONSTRUCTORS, INTERNATIONAL UNION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized July IS, 1901, in New York City as the International Union of
Elevator Constructors of the United States. Jurisdiction was later extended
to Canada, and in 1903 the name of the organization was changed to Interna­
tional Union of Elevator Constructors. A jurisdictional dispute with the Inter­
national Union of Building Service Employees over elevator operators and
starters ended in 1922 with a decision by the American Federation of Labor
granting the jurisdiction over these workers to the elevator workers.
Objects.—“ The object of the international union shall be to bind together
and unite the locals of which it is composed for mutual interest and pro­
tection.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The construction, installation, and operation of ele­
vators and elevator machinery. Specifically: Hydraulic, steam, electric, belt,
hand power, or compressed air; also assembling and building escalators or
traveling stairways; the assembling of all cars complete; putting up of all
guides, either of wood or iron; the setting of all tanks, whether pressure, open,
or pit tanks; the setting of all pumps (where pumps arrive on job in parts
they are to be assembled by members of this union) ; all electric work con­
nected with car, machinery, and hoisting; all overhead work, either of wood
or iron, and supports for same where required; the setting of all templets; all
automatic gates; all indicators; all foundations, either of wood or iron, that
would take the place of masonry: the assembling of all hydraulic parts in con­
nection with elevators; all locking devices in connection with elevators; the
boring, drilling, and sinking of all plunger elevators; all link-belt carriers; all
air cushions, with the exception of those built of brick or those put together
with hot rivets; the operating of all temporary cars, and all work in general
pertaining to the erection and equipment of an elevator complete.”
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president (who is
also chief organizer), secretary-treasurer, and six vice presidents. The general
executive board shall decide all points of law, all grievances and appeals
submitted to it in legal form, and their decisions shall be binding as law until
reversed by a convention. The executive board shall meet annually, and may
submit new legislation and rules to referendum vote.
2. Local unions: Autonomy not defined by constitution.
3. Convention: Time indeterminate. Elects general officers. Constitution
may be amended only by convention.
Qualifications for membership.—All persons employed within the jurisdiction
are eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Three-year term. One apprentice to each shop
and one additional for each eight mechanics employed in the shop.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally on terms embraced in a mutual agreement
drawn up by a joint committee representing the manufacturers and the inter­
national union. Local agreements signed by the general executive board.
Contract calls for one shop, 44-hour week with overtime regulations, and
arbitration of differences.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—The Elevator Constructor.




BUILDING TRADES

27

Organization.—Local unions only; operators and starters have separate
locals: United States—Alabama, 1; California, 3; Colorado, 1; District of
Columbia, 1; Florida, 3; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 4; Indiana, 4; Iowa, 2; Ken­
tucky, 1; Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 4; Michigan, 2; Minnesota,
2; Missouri, 2; Montana, 1; Nebraska, 1; New Jersey, 1; New York, 7; Ohio, 6;
Oklahoma, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 5; Rhode Island, 1; Tennessee, 2;
Texas, 3; Utah, 1; Virginia, 2; Washington, 1; West Virginia, 3; Wisconsin, 1.
Canada—Ontario, 1. Total, 71.
Membership.—18,000.
Headquarters.—No. 191 Joralemon Street, Brooklyn, N. Y.

ENGINEERS, INTERNATIONAL UNION OF STEAM AND OPERATING
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized December 7, 1896, in St. Louis, Mo. At the American Federation
of Labor convention of 1896 there were in attendance four engineers repre­
senting other trades. They conceived the idea of a separate union for engi­
neers and called a meeting of engineers in St. Louis in December of the same
year. The National Steam Engineers’ Union was thus established. In 1905
the name of the organization was changed to International Union of Steam
Engineers, and in 1915, on account of widened jurisdiction, it was again changed
to international Union of Steam and Operating Engineers.
Objects.—“ The objects of the organization are: The elevation of our craft
to its proper position in the ranks of the workers; to encourage a higher stand­
ard of skill among our members; to cultivate feelings of friendship among the
men of our craft; to assist each other in securing employment; to reduce the
hours of labor; to secure a higher standard of wages for work performed; and
by legal and proper means to elevate the moral, intellectual and social con­
ditions of our members.'*
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All those engaged in the operation of steam boilers,
stationary, marine, Deisel, portable, hoisting and electrical engines, gas en­
gines, or any machine that may displace the steam engine, irrespective of its
motive power.
“All hoisting and portable engines and boilers on building and construction
work, when operated by steam, electricity, or compressed air, including pumps,
siphons, pulsometers, concrete mixers, stone crushers, air compressors and
elevators when used for hoisting building materials, street rollers, steam
shovels, cableways, clamshell buckets, orange-peel buckets, pile drivers, dinky
locomotives, or any other machine, irrespective of motive power.”
Government.—1. General executive board, consisting of the general president,
the five vice presidents, and the general secretary-treasurer. “All the powers
of the International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers when not in
session shall be vested in the general executive board. * * ♦ The general
president shall act as chairman. He shall have full control of all matters of
interest to the organization."
2. Joint executive board: “ Where there are two or more local unions in one
city or town, there shall be formed a joint executive board to be composed of
three members from each local union. * * * joint executive boards may adopt
such by-laws as they may deem necessary to govern their local conditions, pro­
viding they do not conflict with the constitution of the general organization.”
3. Local unions: “ Local unions reserve power at their own option by vote
of their members to approve or reject all or any part of any legislative act,
measure, resolution, by-law, rule or constitutional amendment enacted by the
convention or promulgated by any general officer or officers. These reserved
powers are expressly declared to include all measures relating to elections and
finances of the organization.''
4. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and nominates general
officers. Election of general officers by referendum. Constitutional amend­
ments by convention and referendum, or by initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“A candidate for membership must be a com­
petent engineer or apprentice engineer. He shall possess a license in localities
whore such is required. * * * No person who is a member of any organiza­
tion opposed to organized labor may be admitted to membership.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—Determined by legislation in States which re­
quire that an engineer be licensed. No apprenticeship required in work for
which no license is demanded.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNJONS

Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions with local employers upon terms
approved by the general executive board prior to negotiation. Agreements
cover wages, overtime rates, hours and general working conditions. Monthly
payment based on hourly rate. Forty-four hour week in the building trades.
48 generally in other crafts.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—The Steam and Operating Engineer.
Headquarters.—No. 6334 Yale Avenue, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local unions: United States—Alabama, 3; Arizona, 2; Arkan­
sas, 1; California, 19; Colorado, 4; Connecticut, 2; District of Columbia, 2;
Florida, 2; Georgia, 2; Illinois, 36; Indiana, 8; Iowa, 5; Kansas, 1; Kentucky,
2; Louisiana, 4; Maine, 2; Maryland, 3; Massachusetts, 14; Michigan, 4:
Minnesota, 8; Missouri, 6; Montana, 2; Nebraska, 3 ; New Hampshire, 1; New
Jersey, 10; New Mexico, 1; New York, 28; North Carolina, 1; North Dakota,
2; Ohio, 39; Oklahoma, 2; Oregon, 4; Pennsylvania, 13; Rhode Island, 2; Ten­
nessee, 2; Texas, 14; Utah, 1; Vermont, 1; Virginia, 3; Washington, 7; West
Virginia, 3; Wisconsin. 4; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—Alberta, 3; British Colum­
bia, 4; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 17; Quebec, 1. Total, 300.
Membership.—33,000.

GRANITE CUTTERS’ INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
AMERICA, THE
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Rockland, Me., on March 10, 1877. Organization of granite
cutters began as early as 1820, but continued purely local in character until
1877, when the local unions then in existence met in Rockland, Me., and es­
tablished the Granite Cutters’ National Union. Jurisdiction was subsequently
extended to Canada, and since 1905 the organization has been known as the
Granite Cutters’ International Association of America.
Objects.—“ The objects of this association are: To encourage a regular ap­
prentice system and a higher standard of skill; to cultivate feelings of friend­
ship among the craft; to assist each other to secure employment; to reduce
the hours of daily labor; to discourage piecework as tending to degrade the
trade; to secure adequate pay for our work; to furnish aid in case of death
and to assist, to the best of our ability, disabled members; to endeavor by
legal and proper means to elevate the moral, intellectual and social conditions
of our members, and to improve the trade.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ It is hereby declared and set forth that the Granite
Cutters’ International Association of America claims the right of jurisdiction
over cutting, carving, dressing, lettering and all metal lettering, sand-blasting,
sawing and setting all granite (natural and artificial) and hard stone on
which granite cutters' tools are used. This includes from the roughest of
street work and rock-faced ashlar to the finest of molded work, carving stat­
uary, machine cutting, turning, rubbing, polishing or dressing, sandblasting,
including work of preparing and placing of composition necessary, sawing and
setting of any kind of granite (natural and artificial) and other hard stone
on which granite cutting tools or machines are used, and making up, sharpening
or dressing such tools either by hand or machine.”
Government.—1. General executive council, composed of five granite cutters
(one from each zone), one polisher, one tool sharpener, and the international
president, is the executive and administrative power.
2. Branch associations: Subordinate; dues, officers, officers' salaries, etc.,
determined by international constitution.
3. Referendum: All general officers elected by referendum; international
association business submitted to branches for action monthly.
4. Convention: On referendum call only; constitutional amendments by con­
vention, except that in “ extreme emergency” amendments may be made by
referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Eligibility of persons presenting them­
selves for membership shall be determined by branches where application is
made. ”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ The number of apprentices shall be left with
the different branches to regulate, but in no case shall there be more than three
apprentices employed to each full tool sharpener’s gang of journeymen, nor
more than two when the number of journeymen engaged is less than a full




BUILDING TRADES

29

gang; when six or less are employed there shall be but one apprentice. No
apprentice tool sharpener to be employed unless there are at least three jour­
neyman tool sharpeners employed. No apprentice polisher to be employed
unless there are at least three journeyman polishers employed.
•The term of apprenticeship at granite cutting shall be three years; at
tool sharpening two years, and at polishing two years, and no apprentice shall
be admitted to membership in this association unless he has completed his full
term of apprenticeship. It shall be the duty of the branches to see that
apprentices are given a fair opportunity to make themselves proficient at our
trade. ”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local branches on terms approved by the execu­
tive council. Agreements cover minimum wages, weekly pay day, 44-hour week,
double time for overtime, shop conditions, apprentice regulations, and adjust­
ment of grievances.
Hours.—Constitutional 44-hour week.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death; loss of sight
Official organ.—The Granite Cutters* Journal.
Headquarters.—25 School Street, Quincy, Mass.
Organization.—Five territorial divisions: Zone 1, eastern Canada and Ver­
mont ; zone 2, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and
Maine; zone 3, New York, New Jersey, Delaware Pennsylvania, Maryland,
District of Columbia, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia; zone 4, Wisconsin,
Michigan, Illinois. Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, North Carolina,
South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Louisiana; zone 5, western
Canada, Washington, Oregon, California, Montana, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Ari­
zona, New Mexico, Wyoming, Colorado, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska,
Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Minnesota, Iowa, and Arkansas.
Local unions only: United States—California, 4; Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 7;
District of Columbia, 1; Georgia, 3; Illinois, 1; Iowa, 1; Kentucky, 1; Louis­
iana, 1; Maine, 10: Maryland, 2; Massachusetts, 17; Michigan, 1; Minnesota,
4; Missouri, 1; New Hampshire, 3; New Jersey, 1; New York, 5; North Caro­
lina, 2; Ohio, 3; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 2: Rhode Island, 2; South Caro­
lina. 1; Texas, 2; Utah, 1; Vermont, 13; Virginia 2; Washington, 3; Wisconsin,
1. Canada—British Columbia, 1; Ontario, 1; Quebec, 1. Total, 101.
Membership.—£,500.

HOD CARRIERS, BUILDING AND COMMON LABORERS9 UNION OF
AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Washington, D. C., on April 13, 1903. The organizing conven­
tion was called by officials of the American Federation of Labor for the purpose
of forming a trade-union from the various directly affiliated local unions of
hod carriers and building laborers. The first convention was attended by dele­
gates from 26 American Federation of Labor local unions. At the second con­
vention, held the next year, delegates from 130 locals of the new international
organization were in attendance. The name of the union as at first established
was International Hod Carriers and Building Laborers* Union of America, and
it was solely a building trades union. Later it widened its scope to include
unskilled labor in other fields, and the name was changed to include “ common
labor.”
Upon the dissolution of the American Brotherhood of Cement Workers in
1916, the cement laborers who had been members of that organization were
taken over by the hod carriers* union. In 1918 the Compressed Air and
Foundation Workers’ International Union merged with the Hod Carriers, Build­
ing and Common Laborers’ Union.
Objects.—“ The object of this union shall be the protection of its members,
to assist each other by all legal means to obtain fair and just treatment for
all laborers, and to elevate their social position.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Wrecking of buildings, excavation of buildings, dig­
ging of trenches, piers and foundations, holes, digging, lagging and sheeting
of said foundations, holes and caisson work; concrete for walls, foundations,
floors or any other construction, whether done by hand or any other process:
tending 1*> masons, mixing and handling all materials used by masons, building
of scaffolds for masons and plasterers: building of centers for fireprooflng




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

purposes; tending to carpenters; tending to and mixing all material for plaster­
ing, whether done by hand or by any other process; clearing of debris from
buildings; shoring, underpinning and raising of old buildings; drying of
plastering when done by salamander heat; handling of dimension stones; and
common laboring in the construction of streets, sewers, and tunnels. Working
in air pressure (compressed air) whether in caisson cylinders, subway tunnels,
or compartments; sinking of all open caissons for whatever purpose they may
be used; common laboring in factories, mills and shipyards.”
Government.—1. General officers, president, six vice presidents, secretarytreasurer. “ The international union shall have supreme ruling power over all
local unions.” Its powers “ shall be executive, legislative and judicial, * * *
its jurisdiction shall be the ultimate tribunal and * ♦ * its decisions shall
be final and conclusive.”
2. District councils, composed of “ regularly elected delegates from local
unions,” have “ general supervision and control over all matters relating to
agreements with employers in their respective localities by arranging the
wage scale and the number of hours of labor and all the details necessary to
guard the interests of all locals.” Affiliation of local unions to district coun­
cils is mandatory.
3. Local unions: “ The government and superintendence of subordinate
unions shall be vested in the international union as the supreme head of all
local unions. * * * The jurisdiction of local unions shall be that assigned
to them by the international union.”
4. Convention: Held every five years, unless otherwise ordered by referen­
dum. Enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Qualifications for membership.—“ No person shall be accepted to membership
in any local union under the jurisdiction of the international union unless he is
actually working at the calling and is a man of good moral character and
known by at least two members in good standing.” Applicants must be
citizens or have made legal citizenship declaration.
Apprenticeship regulations.—No apprentice system.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally between local unions or district councils,
and individual employers. Subject to approval of international office. General
officers assist in conferences if needed. Agreements usually cover hours, wage
scale, overtime regulations and rates, method of payment, arbitration, and
renewal clauses.
Benefits.—Death.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 25 School Street, Quincy, Mass.
Organization.—District councils: California, Fresno, Sacramento, and San
Jose; Illinois, Aurora, Benton, and La Salle; Iowa, Des Moines; Massachu­
setts, Boston; Minnesota, Minneapolis; Missouri, Kansas City and St. Louis;
New Jersey, Hackensack and vicinity; New York, Utica; Ohio, Cleveland and
Cincinnati; Pennsylvania, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 2; Arizona, 1; Arkansas, 4; Cali­
fornia, 44; Colorado, 5; Connecticut, 11; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 2;
Florida, 5; Georgia, 1; Idaho, 2; Illinois, 81; Indiana, 14; Iowa, 11; Kansas,
7; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 3; Maryland, 3; Maine, 3; Massachusetts, 21;
Michigan, 4; Minnesota, 5; Missouri, 14; Montana, 7; Nebraska, 1; Nevada, 1;
New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 51; New Mexico, 1; New York, 52; North
Carolina, 1; North Dakota, 1; Ohio, 27; Oklahoma, 10; Oregon, 4; Pennsyl­
vania, 34; Rhode Island, 2; Tennessee, 3; Texas, 1; Utah, 1; Virginia, 3;
Washington, 11; West Virginia, 5; Wisconsin, 7; Wyoming, 2; Porto Rico, 1.
Canada—Alberta, 1; British Columbia, 1; Ontario, 2; Nova Scotia, 1. Total,
480.
Membership.—65,000.

LATHERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION, WOOD, WIRE, AND METAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized December 15, 1899, in Detroit, Mich.
Object.—“Our object shall be to encourage and formulate local unions of the
craft, the closer amalgamation of locals under one head, to establish the eighthour day, to effect an equitable adjustment of all differences arising from
time to time between our members and their employers, to the end that trade
quarrels, strikes, and lockouts may be reduced to a minimum, to more




BUILDING TBADES

31

thoroughly inculcate the principles of unionism and secure an improvement of
the conditions under which we labor.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Erecting and installing of all light iron construction;
furring, making and erecting of brackets, clips, and hangers; wood, wire, and
metal lath, plaster board, or other material which takes the place of same,
to which plastic material is adhered; corner beads, all floor construction,
arches erected for the purpose of holding plaster, cement, concrete, or any other
plastic material.
“ The foregoing classification of work, as defined in numerous decisions
and rulings since this jurisdiction was granted our organization, covers such
work as—
“ Light iron partitions, constructed of channels, fiat iron, Knapp, Berger,
and other patent pronged studs, iron wall furring, all light ironwork for
suspended and other metallic lath ceilings, making and erecting light iron
brackets, which are used in connection with ornamental plastering for cornices,
paneled ceilings, groin, elliptical, Gothic, proscenium, and all other arches of
this description; the erection of metal corner beads, metal picture mold, metal
base screed, and other metal specialties which are covered with plastic
material; the wrapping of beams and columns, the placing of steel tile and
other forms of floor reinforcement, the placing, nailing, and tying of all wire
and. metallic lath no matter for what purpose used—which includes wire cloth,
expanded metal, all Hy-Rib, Self-Sentering, Shure-Bond, Trussit, Ferro-Inclave,
Ferro-Lithic, Plate Lath,' Clianelath, Rib-Centering, Kno-Fur, Corr-Mesh,
Truss-V-Rib, Truss-Metal, Key-Ridge, and all other similar forms of selfsupporting lath; the fabrication and installation of all light iron erected for
the purpose of receiving metallic lath, or plastic material, and all other forms
of lath, including wood, plaster board, Bestal board, button lath, woven-wood
lath, metalite lath, mastic board, Bishopric board, E-Cod-Fabric, weldedsheathed-lath, composite or brick lath, basket lath and lath of any other make
or description erected to receive or hold plastic material.”
Government.—The president “ shall supervise the affairs of the international
union,” with extensive executive powers. General executive board, composed
of the seven vice presidents, is a trial and appeal board.
2. District councils: Composed of delegates from local unions in districts
having two or more locals. Affiliation compulsory on part of locals. “A
district council shall have such authority within the limitations of the laws
of the international union as may be delegated to it by the local unions of
which it is composed.”
3. Local unions: Autonomous within limits of national constitution. Con­
stitution and by-laws subject to approval of general office.
4. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Discretionary with local unions, but applicant
must have two years’ experience in the trade, be a citizen of the United States
or of Canada, or have declared citizenship intentions. “ No one shall be dis­
criminated against for race or color.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“All apprentices shall work not less than six
months on wood lath before being placed on metal.” Apprenticeship term
“ shall in no case be less than two years.”
“Apprentices shall in no case be admitted to any local union in excess of one
apprentice to each local and one additional to each five members, said appren­
tice not to be under the age of 16 years nor over the age of 21 years. * * *
The matter of shop distribution of apprentices shall be left entirely to the will
of the local.”
Agreements.—Wage scales and working conditions established locally either
by district councils or local unions. Wage scales uniform throughout a district
where a district council exists; such scales and working conditions approved
by component local unions.
Hours of labor.—Constitutional eight-hour day.
Benefits.—Funeral.
Official organ.—The Lather.
Headquarters.—Lathers’ Building, Cleveland, Ohio.
Organization.—District councils: California, 2 (Golden Gate District Council
and Los Angeles County District Council); Illinois, 2 (Illinois State Council
and Mississippi Valley District Council, includes St. Louis); Indiana. 1
(Hoosier District Council); Louisiana, 1 (Crescent City District Council, New




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNJONS

Orleans); Massachusetts State Council; Michigan (Auto City District Council.
Detroit); Minnesota, (Interstate District Council, Duluth and Superior) ; New
Jersey State Council; New York, 2 (Western New York District Council,
Buffalo and vicinity and Westchester, Greater New York and Long Island
District Council); Ohio, 2 (Buckeye State Council, and Ohio and Pennsylvania
District Council, Youngstown and W arren); Pennsylvania, 3 (Quaker City
District Council, Philadelphia and vicinity; Ohio and Pennsylvania District
Council, Sharon and New Castle, and West Penn District Council, Pittsburgh
and vicinity); Washington (Pacific Northwest District Council).
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 2; Arizona, 1; California, 30; Colo­
rado, 5; Connecticut, 8; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia. 1; Florida, 13,
Georgia, 1; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 22; Indiana, 11; Iowa, 5; Kansas, 3; Kentucky,
2; Louisiana, 3; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 14; Michigan, 9; Minnesota, 2;
Missouri, 3; Montana, 2; Nebraska, 2; Nevada, 1; New Jersey, 16; New
Mexico, 1; New York, 17; North Carolina, 2; Ohio, 19; Oklahoma, 6; Oregon,
4; Pennsylvania, 21; Rhode Island, 1; Tennessee, 4; Texas, 7; Utah, 2;
Virginia, 2; Washington, 7; West Virginia, 4; Wisconsin, 7; Wyoming, 2.
Canada—Alberta. 1: British Columbia, 1; Ontario, 3; Quebec, 1. Total, 271.
Membership.—17,000.

MARBLE, STONE, AND SLATE POLISHERS, RUBBERS, AND SAW­
YERS, TILE AND MARBLE SETTERS’ HELPERS AND TERRAZZO
WORKERS’ HELPERS, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Detroit in 1901 as the International Union of Marble Workers.
After the Bricklayers, Masons, and Plasterers’ International Union joined the
American Federation of Labor the organized marble setters who were then
members of the International Association of Marble Workers transferred their
membership to the bricklayers international and the marble workers changed
the name of their organization to the International Association of Marble,
Stone, and Slate Polishers, Rubbers, and Sawyers. In 1918 the Bricklayers,
Masons, and Plasterers’ International Union requested the marble workers to
make provision for the admission into their union of tile setters’ helpers. Ap­
plication for this extended jurisdiction was opposed by the International Hod
Carriers, Building and Common Laborers’ Union. By decision of the American
Federation of Labor, however, jurisdiction was granted to the marble workers
union, and in 1921 tile and marble setters’ helpers were taken into the organ­
ization and the name changed in accordance therewith. Still later jurisdiction
was extended over the terrazzo workers’ helpers, and now all of these branches
of the craft are recognized in the title of the organization.
Objects.—“ The objects and aims of this international association are to
discourage piecework, to encourage an apprentice and improver system, to
cultivate feelings of friendship among the men of the different industries
named, to assist each other to procure employment, to reduce the hours of
daily labor, and secure adequate pay for our work, and by legal and proper
means elevate the moral, intellectual, and social conditions of our members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The sawing, rubbing, and polishing of marble, stone,
and slate used for structural, sanitary, decorative, commemorative, and other
purposes inside and about buildings of every description, in subways and
cemeteries or wherever required for floors, wall linings, wainscoting, ceilings,
stairways, steps, platforms, tile, door and window trims, counters, store fronts,
vaults, operating rooms, bath and toilet rooms, and switchboards.
“ Our polishers and rubbers shall polish, rub. and clean all marble, stone,
slate, and glass, and all compositions and imitations that require the same proc­
ess of finishing required in polishing, rubbing, and cleaning marble, stone, or
slate; this work applies to shop and building, hand and machine.
“ Sawyers shall run all gang, cable, and diamond saws, set all blocks in
gangs, and hammer and set all saws.
“ Marble setters’ helpers shall do all utility work, such as loading and un­
loading trucks at shop or building, rigging for heavy work, and such other
work as is required in helping a marble setter.
“Tile layers’ helpers shall do all the cleaning of tile set by the tile layer,
handle all sand, cement, lime. tile, and all other materials that may be used
by tile layers after being delivered at the building.




BUILDING TRADES

33

“ Terrazzo workers* helpers shall do all the handling of sand, cement, lime,
terrazzo, and all other materials that may be used by the marble, mosaic, and
terrazzo workers after being delivered at the building, or at the shop; rubbing
and cleaning all marble, mosaic, and terrazzo floors, bare wainscoting when run
on the building by hand or machine.”
Government.—1. General executive council, composed of president, secretarytreasurer and nine vice presidents, is the governing body, with the president
as the chief executive officer, with comprehensive powers.
2. Local unions: Autonomous, but constitution and by-laws must be approved
by general president.
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Qualifications for membership.—Applicants for membership must be or become
citizens of the United States. Four years' apprenticeship is required for marble
polishers before admission to the union.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Apply to marble polishers only, in which branch
there is a four-year term. One apprentice to each five journeymen, but not
more than five apprentices per year are allowed in any one shop.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions.
Constitutional requirement:
“Local unions must embody in their constitutions and by-laws a general law
providing for a form of agreement with employers and the establishment of a
joint committee of arbitration.”
Benefits.—Death (by local).
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 406 East One hundred forty-ninth Street, New York City.
Organization.—Local unions only: California, 5; District of Columbia, 1;
Illinois, 5; Indiana, 1; Kentucky, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 2; Michigan,
2; Minnesota, 1; Missouri, 5; New Jersey, 1; New York, 6; Ohio, 3; Oklahoma,
1; Pennsylvania, 4; Rhode Island, *1; Texas, 1; Washington, 2; Wisconsin, 1.
Total, 44.
Membership.-—4,500.

PAINTERS, DECORATORS AND PAPERHANGERS OF AMERICA,
BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Baltimore, Md., on March 15, 1887. Incorporated December 7,
1894. Painters took active and prominent part in the Knights of Labor
movement from the beginning and were extensively organized thereunder.
They were, however, among the first to break away from that movement and
join the ranks of the craft unionists. At the instigation of the organization
of painters in Baltimore, Md., a conference was called in that city on March
15, 1887. This meeting was attended by representatives of Knights of Labor
assemblies and independent craft unions to the number of 13. From this
conference emerged the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators. A journal
was started the first year. In 1890 the name was changed to include the
paper hangers, and the title then adopted remains the official name of the
organization.
A division of interests between the locals of the East and of the Middle West
crystallized into a conflict over the location of permanent headquarters, which
up to 1894 had been in Baltimore. The result was a schism and the organiza­
tion of the western faction into a new body. Both organizations functioned
independently, the insurgent western group soon outstripping the parent union
in membership and. aggressiveness. In 1900 the executives of both groups met
with representatives of the American Federation of Labor in Washington, and
secured an adjustment which again brought them together as one organization.
Headquarters were retained by the western group at LaFayette, Ind.
Originally composed exclusively of house painters and decorators, the
brotherhood has extended its scope to the entire field of painting as wdl as
paper hanging and the decorative arts, and by so doing has absorbed into its
own membership the United Scenic. Artists, the National Paperhangers’ As­
sociation, the National Union of Sign Painters, and the Amalgamated Glass
Workers* International Union (stained and decorative glass workers).
Objects.— “ The objects of this association are: The aiding of members to

become more skillful and efficient workers; the promotion of their general
intelligence; the elevation of their character; the regulation of wages,




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

hours, and conditions of labor; the cultivation of friendship among the mem­
bers of the association and the rendering of assistance in securing employ­
ment; the promotion of their individual rights in the prosecution of their
trade or trades; the raising of funds for the benefit of sick, disabled, or unem­
ployed members; and the families of deceased members who continuously
complied with our laws; and such other objects for which working people may
lawfully combine, having in view their mutual protection and benefit.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators, and Paperhangers of America shall have jurisdiction of all house, sign, pictorial, coach,
car, automobile, carriage, aircraft, machinery, ship and railroad equipment
painters; over all decorators, paper hangers, hardwood finishers; grainers,
glaziers, varnishers, enamelers, gilders, and scenic artists; over all men en­
gaged in applying or removing paints, oils, varnishes, water colors, wall paper
or other materials used in the various branches of the trade, and over all
glass .workers, to w it: Setters of art glass, prism glass, leaded glass and pro­
tection glass, bevelers, cutters, glaziers in lead or other metals, shade work­
ers, silverers, scratch polishers, embossers, engravers, designers, painters on
glass, chippers, mosaic workers, benders, cementers, flat glass or wheel cutters
and other workers in glass used in the construction of buildings or for archi­
tectural or decorative purposes; and shall be comprised of an unlimited num­
ber of local unions, district councils, and other subordinate bodies, subject to
its laws and usages.”
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, six vice
presidents, exercises “ general supervision over the affairs of the brotherhood.”
2. District councils, composed of delegates from all local unions within a
given jurisdiction, “ shall have legislative and executive power on all matters
relating to the common interest and welfarfe of the local unions in the district
subject to a referendum vote of all affiliated locals. * * * They shall estab­
lish a uniform rate of wages, dues, and initiation fees. * * * and shall
have power to frame all working or trade rules and to enforce the same.”
Affiliation of local unions to district councils compulsory.
3. Local unions: Local by-laws subject to approval of the general executive
board. Locals, where no district council exists, control wage scales and work­
ing conditions.
4. Convention: Held biennially. General officers elected by general assembly
or by referendum (in case convention is not held). Amendments to constitu­
tion and revision of laws by convention and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person to be admitted to membership
in this brotherhood must have followed for three years one of the branches
of our trade as enumerated in the constitution and be competent to command
the minimum wages established by the local union or district council in which
he applies for membership.
“ The admission of contractors to membership or the refusal thereof shall be
determined by the by-laws of the local union or the district council * ♦ *
but they must comply with the trade rules and working conditions of the
locality in which the work is done, must pay the union scale, and hire only union
men and not belong to any employers’ or contractors’ association.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“Any boy engaging to learn the trade of paint­
ing, paper hanging, decorating or other allied trades enumerated in this con­
stitution, must be under the age of 21 at the time of his registration (unless by
dispensation), shall be required to serve a regular apprenticeship of three
consecutive years and shall register with the local union or district council in
the locality where he is employed. ♦ * * An apprentice leaving (his em­
ployer) except for good reasons shall not be permitted to work under the
jurisdiction of any local union in our brotherhood, but shall be required to
return to his employer and serve out his apprenticeship.
“Apprentices in the last year of their service shall be initiated as apprentices
and entitled to a seat in the union, but shall have no vote.
“ Each local union and district council shall make regulations limiting the
number of apprentices employed in each shop to one for such number of journey­
men as may seem just.”
Agreements.—Negotiated locally, by district councils where such exist, other­
wise by local unions, generally with individual employers, and are subject to
approval by the general executive board.




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35

“ There is no stated policy regarding agreements, further than that they
must specify that only members of the brotherhood be employed, and that
the contractors pay the prevailing wages and observe the working conditions. ”
Forty-four hour week prevails: in some instances a 40-hour week of live days.
Benefits.—Strike; death (member and member’s w ife); total disability;
injury (by some locals).
Official organ.—The Painter and Decorator.
Headquarters.—Painters and Decorators’ Building, La Fayette, Ind.
Organization.—Conferences: California State conference; Colorado confer­
ence; Connecticut conference; Connecticut Valley conference (headquarters,
Westfield, Mass.); Eastern Conference of Sign, Scene, and Pictorial Painters
(headquarters New York C ity); eastern Pennsylvania district conference;
Florida State conference; Fox River Valley district conference (headquarters
Oshkosh, W is.); Illinois State conference; Indiana State conference; Iowa State
conference; Massachusetts North Shore district conference (headquarters,
Marblehead); Massachusetts State conference; Minnesota State conference;
National Conference of Sign, Scene, and Pictorial Painters conference (head­
quarters, Chicago, 111.); New Jersey State conference; New York State
conference; Northwest Painters’ conference (headquarters, Everett, Wash.);
Ohio State conference; Oklahoma State conference; Rhode Island State con­
ference; St. Joe Valley conference (headquarters, Elkhart, In d .); Texas State
conference; western Pennsylvania tri-State conference (headquarters, New
Castle, P a.); Wisconsin State conference; Worcester County (Mass.) con­
ference ; Triple Alliance of Denver, Colo.
District councils: California, Los Angeles and San Francisco; Florida, Mi­
ami; Georgia, Atlanta; Illinois, Chicago, Mississippi Valley (Rock Island),
and southern Illinois (Carbondale); Indiana, Indianapolis; Louisiana, New
Orleans; Maryland, Baltimore; Massachusetts, North Shore (Gloucester, Bev­
erly, etc.), Berkshire County, Boston, and Natick and vicinity; Michigan,
Detroit; Minnesota, Twin City; Missouri, St Louis and Kansas City; New
Jersey, Hudson County, Essex County, Bergen and Passaic Counties; New
York. Buffalo, Manhattan and Bronx, Rochester, Westchester County, Rensse­
laer County and Albany, Nassau County and Queens, Kings County, and Hud­
son River counties; Ohio, Cleveland and Cincinnati; Pennsylvania, Philadel­
phia and Pittsburgh; Texas, Dallas and Houston; Washington, Seattle; Quebec,
Montreal.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 10; Arizona, 5; Arkansas, 9; Cali­
fornia, 76; Colorado, 13; Connecticut, 27; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 6;
Florida, 32; Georgia, 9; Idaho, 4; Illinois, 121; Indiana, 53; Iowa, 27; Kan­
sas, 17; Kentucky, 16; Louisiana, 12; Maine, 12; Maryland, 7; Massachusetts,
70; Michigan, 24; Minnesota, 16; Mississippi, 6; Missouri, 37; Montana, 12;
Nebraska, 8; Nevada, 2; New Hampshire, 6; New Jersey, 53; New Mexico, 4;
New York, 106; North Carolina, 5; North Dakota, 4; Ohio, 67; Oklahoma, 33;
Oregon, 14; Pennsylvania, 78; Rhode Island, 6; South Carolina, 3; South Da­
kota, 2; Tennessee, 11; Texas, 60; Utah, 4; Vermont, 6; Virginia, 8; Washing­
ton, 22; West Virginia, 15; Wisconsin, 27; Wyoming, 8; Canal Zone, 1; Porto
Rico, 4. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 1; Nova Scotia,
2; Ontario, 15; Quebec, 7; Saskatchewan, 2. Total, 1,210.
Membership.—125,000.

PLASTERERS AND CEMENT FINISHERS* INTERNATIONAL ASSO­
CIATION OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA, OPERATIVE
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1864 as the National Plasterers’ Organization of the United
States. The name was changed in 1889 to Operative Plasterers’ International
Association of the United States and Canada. In 1916 the American Brother­
hood of Cement Workers was dissolved and the cement finishers belonging to
that organization were transferred to the plasterers’ union. The name was
again changed to signify amalgamation with the cement finishers, and the
present title was adopted in 1916.
Object.—The object of this association shall be to facilitate the organization
of the trade it represents, for mutual benefit, protection and education.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Plasterers.—“All interior or exterior plastering of cement,
stucco, stone imitation or any patent material when cast, the casting and




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

setting of .same, also corner beads when stuck must be done by practical
plasterers of the Operative Plasterers and Cement Finishers’ International
Association. This includes the plastering and finishing with hot composition
material in vats, compartments, or wherever applied; also the setting in place
of plaster boards, ground blocks, patent dots, cork plates. Also the sticking,
nailing, and screwing of all composition caps and ornaments. The prepar­
ing, scratching, and browning of all ceilings and walls vthen finished with
terrazzo or tile shall be done by plasterers of this association, allowing suffi­
cient thickness to allow the applying of the terrazzo or tile and the application
of any plastic material to the same must be done by members of the Operative
Plasterers and Cement Finishers* International Association who are practical
plasterers. All casting must be done by members of 'shop-hand locals/ The
applying of any plastic materials to sofiits, ceilings or perpendicular work is
recognized as the work of the plasterer, except a base 6 inches or less when
the same is of the same material as the floor. * * * No member of this
association shall be allowed to work to any corner beads that are put on
beams, arches, or groin ceilings.
“All casting and finishing of all imitation stone shall be the work of the
membership of the Operative Plasterers and Cement Finishers’ International
Association/’
Cement finishers.—“ All concrete construction, including the foremanship of
same, such as buildings, bridges, elevators, smokestacks, curbs, and gutters,
sidewalks, street paving, alleys and roofs, of mass or reinforced concrete,
slabs and all flat surfaces of cement, rock asphalt, mastic in block or any other
form, composition, terrazzo, granitoid, mosaic and nail coat, whether done by
brush, broom, trowel, float, or any other process. The rodding, spreading and
tamping of all concrete, and the spreading and finishing of all top materials,
sills, coping, steps, stairs, and risers and running all base 6 inches or less
in height when floors of the above-mentioned materials are used, patching,
brushing, rubbing, chipping, and busli-hammering of all concrete constructions,
setting of all strips and slakes and grades. All glass set in cement. The
pointing and patching around all steel or metal window frames that touch con­
crete. That above does not include any work done in and by the usual method
of plastering.”
Government.—1. General officers: General president, first vice president and
12 additional vice presidents, secretary-treasurer, editor, executive board, and
organizer. The executive board consists of three members: General president,
first vice president, and secretary-treasurer.
“ The executive board shall have control of all executive business and shall
fill all vacancies. They shall have power to settle all disputes, grievances,
lockouts between employers or exchanges,” and their “ decisions shall be
binding, subject to an appeal to the convention. * ♦ * They shall have full
and complete control over all strikes.”
2. Local unions: Autonomy not defined in constitution.
3. Convention: Held triennially, enacts legislation and elects general officers.
No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ No applicant for membership shall be ini­
tiated into any local of this association until he has completed his full term of
apprenticeship to the trade.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ Subordinate associations shall have jurisdic­
tion over the apprentice system. * * * In any local where there is not more
than 25 members there shall be not more than 2 apprentices allowed.”
Ratio of apprentices to journeymen governed by agreement, not by con­
stitutional provision.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions with local employers, either indi­
vidually or in association. Agreements subject to approval of the executive
board.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death.
Official organ.—The Plasterer.
Headquarters.—Castell Building, Middletown, Ohio.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 7; Arizona, 2;
Arkansas, 7; California, 29; Colorado, 8; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia,
1; Florida, 16; Georgia, 5; Idaho, 3; Illinois, 37; Indiana, 31; Iowa, 15;
Kansas, 13; Kentucky, 6; Louisiana, 5; Maine, 1; Maryland, 3; Massachu­
setts, 6; Michigan, 13; Minnesota, 6; Mississippi, 4; Missouri, 16; Montana,
4; Nebraska, 3; Nevada, 2; New Jersey, 5; New Mexico, 2; New York, 14;
North Carolina, 5; Ohio, 32; Oklahoma, 16; Oregon, 8; Pennsylvania, 43;




BUILDING TRADES

37

Rhode Island, 1; South Carolina, 4; South Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 6; Texas, 23;
Utah, 4; Virginia, 7; Washington, 11: West Virginia, 7; Wisconsin, 11; Wyo­
ming, 4; Hawaii, 1. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 1; Manitoba, 2;
Nova Scotia, 1; Ontario, 7; Quebec, 2; Saskatchewan, 2. Total, 466.
Membership.—32,000.

PLUMBERS AND STEAMFITTERS OF THE UNITED STATES AND
CANADA, UNITED ASSOCIATION OF JOURNEYMEN
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized October 11, 1889, in Washington, D. C. Prior to the founding of
the present United Association an organization known as the International
Association of Plumbers, Steamfitters and Gas Fitters was formed at Cincin­
nati, Ohio, composed of Knights of Labor locals and a few independent craft
unions. This organization and representatives of local organizations which
had not identified themselves with the national body met in Washington on
October 11, 1889, and established the United Association of Journeymen
Plumbers and Steamfitters.
A dual organization, the International Union of Steam and Hot Water
Fitters, was chartered by the American Federation of Labor in 1899 and both
unions functioned separately until 1912, when amalgamation was ordered by
the American Federation of Labor and the Building Trades Department. The
International Union of Steam and Hot Water Fitters refused to comply with
the order and was expelled from the Federation. Subsequently, while actual
amalgamation did not occur, local organizations of the outlawed union with­
drew from the parent body and were chartered as local unions of the United
Association, and the International Union of Steam and Hot Water Fitters
passed out of existence.
Objects.—“ The aspirations of this association are to construct an organiza­
tion which shall subserve the interest of all its members and be a fitting monu­
ment to the unions attached thereto. The objects of this association are to
protect its members from unjust and injurious competition, and secure through
unity of action among all workers of the trade throughout the United States
and Canada, claiming as we do that labor is capital, and is the only capital
that possesses power to reproduce itself, or, in other words, to create capital.
Labor is the interest underlying all other interests; therefore, it is entitled to
and should receive from society and government protection and encourage­
ment.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—All branches of the pipe-fitting industry (plumbers, gas
fitters, steam fitters, sprinkler fitters, railroad fitters, marine plumbers, marine
fitters, general pipe fitters, steam, sprinkling and marine fitters’ helpers and
apprentices).
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, secretarytreasurer, assistant secretary, 9 general organizers, and 14 vice presidents (7
plumbers and 7 fitters), “ shall have full discretionary power over all things
connected with the association between conventions” (except decisions made
at conventions).
2. State associations: Delegate bodies chartered by the association. “ Where
such State association exists it shall be mandatory upon all locals in that
State to affiliate.” * * * State associations “ shall have power to create
* * ♦ such funds as in their judgment seem wise, such funds to be used
for the protection and promotion of the trade in their respective jurisdiction.”
3. Local unions: Subordinate.
4. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Amendments to constitution and revision of iaws by convention or by initiative
and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any competent journeyman plumber or steamfitter is eligible to membership. Competency determined by examination.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ Whenever necessary, local unions may allow
each shop 1 apprentice, where they employ 1 or more journeymen steadily,
and 1 additional apprentice for every 5 men steadily employed up to 20: but
in no case shall any shop be entitled to more than 4 apprentices. Each
apprentice shall be registered by a joint committee of employers and journey­
men and must serve an apprenticeship of five years.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, generally with employers’ associa­
tions.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

A national agreement covering sprinkler fitters in Local No. 669 (branches
in Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Los Angeles,
Newark, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Providence) is made between the general
officers of the United Association and representatives of five concerns manu­
facturing and installing automatic fire-extinguishing apparatus.
(Kansas
City, Minneapolis, St. Louis, and San Francisco sprinkler fitters make local
agreements with sprinkler companies.)
Hours: Constitutional eight-hour day. “ No financial aid will be rendered
to any local going on strike for more wages whose hours of labor are more
than eight on building work.”
Wages: “ Each local union shall have a fixed scale of wages, by which
the different classes of workmen shall be governed, and there shall not be
more than one rate of wages.”
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; sick; death.
Official organ.— Plumbers, Gas and Steam Fitters’ Journal.
Headquarters.—United Association Building, 1138 North Dearborn Street,
Chicago, 111.
Organization.—State associations: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida,
Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota,
Missouri, New England (headquarters in Providence), New Jersey, New York,
North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Potomac State Association (District of
Columbia), South Carolina, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin; Saskatchewan
Provincial Board.
District councils: California, Los Angeles; Northern district (headquarters
San Francisco); Massachusetts, Boston and vicinity; New Jersey, Hudson
County (Jersey City) ; New York, Albany and vicinity; Buffalo and vicinity;
Central New York (headquarters Syracuse); Greater New York (New York
C ity); Hudson Valley (headquarters Newburgh) ; Westchester County League;
Pennsylvania, Philadelphia and vicinity; Wisconsin, Milwaukee Pipe Trades
Council; New England Water Front Council (headquarters Portsmouth, N. H.) ;
District Council of the Great Lakes (marine fitters, headquarters Cleveland,
Ohio).
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 4; Arizona, 3; Arkansas, 5; Cali­
fornia, 40; Colorado, 9; Connecticut, 20; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 2;
Florida, 17; Georgia, 6; Idaho, 5; Illinois, 49; Indiana, 27; Iowa, 20; Kansas,
13; Kentucky, 6; Louisiana, 5; Maine, 6; Maryland, 3 ; Massachusetts, 45;
Michigan, 21; Minnesota, 13; Mississippi, 3: Missouri, 13; Montana, 10;
Nebraska, 5; Nevada, 2; New Hampshire, 5; New Jersey, 32; New Mexico, 1;
New York, 64; North Carolina, 9; North Dakota, 3; Ohio, 43; Oklahoma, 11;
Oregon, 7; Pennsylvania, 42; Rhode Island, 6; South Carolina, 5; South
Dakota, 2; Tennessee, 8; Texas, 19; Utah, 3; Virginia, 12; Washington, 13;
West Virginia, 7; Wisconsin, 21; Wyoming, 4; Hawaii, 1; Canal Zone, 2;
Porto Rico, 2. Canada—Alberta, 3; British Columbia, 4; Manitoba, 2; New
Brunswick, 2; Nova Scotia, 1; Ontario, 14; Quebec, 3 ; Saskatchewan, 2.
Total, 706.
Membership.—60,000.

ROOFERS, DAMP AND WATERPROOF WORKERS’ ASSOCIATION,
UNITED SLATE, TILE AND COMPOSITION
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Pittsburgh, Pa., on September 8,1919. It is an amalgamation of
two international unions engaged in roofing work, the International Slate and
Tile Roofers* Union of America, organized in 1903, and the International
Brotherhood of Composition Roofers, Damp and Waterproof Workers, organized
in 1907.
Objects.—“ To create and maintain a more harmonious and amicable relation
one with another for the mutual benefit of all concerned; to increase, nourish,
and sustain the prestige and dignity of all affiliated locals, at the same time
guaranteeing to and retaining by each its own local and individual autonomy;
to broaden the scope of usefulness and extend the field of employment of each
and every individual member; to confederate as far as possible our somewhat
spasmodic individual efforts into one continuous collective undertaking for the
upbuilding and improvement of this association.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Slate, tile, and composition roofing; specifically, “ail
slate where used for roofing of any size, shape, or color, including flat or




BUILDING TRADES

39

promenade slate, with necessary metal flashing to make water-tight. All tile
where used for roofing of any size, shape, or color, and in any manner laid,
including flat or promenade tile, with necessary metal flashing to make water­
tight. All cementing in, on, or around the said tile and slate roof. All laying
of felt or paper beneath the above-mentioned work. All dressing, punching,
cutting of all roof slate or tile. All operation of slate-cutting or punching
machinery. All substitute material taking the place of slate or tile, as asbestos
slate or tile, cement or composition tile, excepting shingles of wood and metal
tile. All removal of slate or tile roofing as defined above where the same
is to be relaid. All forms of plastic slate, slag, and gravel roofing. All kinds
o f asphalt or composition roofing. All rock asphalt mastic when used for
damp and water proofing. All prepared paper roofing. All compressed paper,
chemically prepared paper, and burlap when used for roofing or damp and
water proofing purposes, with or without coating. All damp-resisting prepa­
rations when applied with a mop, three-knot brush, or swab in or outside of
buildings. All damp courses, sheeting, or coating on all foundation work. All
tarred floors. All laying of tile or brick when laid in pitch tar, asphalt mastic,
marmolite, or any form of bitumen.”
Government.—General executive board, composed of president and six vice
presidents. General secretary-treasurer is an international officer but not a
member of the general executive board.
General executive board has general supervision over the association; deci­
sions binding unless reversed by convention.
2. Local unions: Largely self-governing. Autonomy not definitely fixed.
3. Convention: Held every two years, or subject to referendum call. Enacts
general legislation, acts on G. E. B. decisions, and elects general officers.
Qualifications for membership.—Any skilled or apprentice roofer is eligible to
membership; but members must be or become American citizens.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Under control of local unions.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions with individual employers.
Benefits.—Funeral.
Oflicial organ.—The Journeyman Roofers’ Magazine (quarterly).
Headquarters.—No. 3091 Coleridge Road, Cleveland, Ohio (variable).
Organization.—Local unions only: California, 9 ; Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 2 ;
District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 3; Illinois, 9; Indiana, 1; Louisiana, 1; Mary­
land, 1; Massachusetts, 4; Michigan, 1; Minnesota, 1; Missouri, 3; Nebraska,
1; New Jersey, 7; New York, 6; Ohio, 7; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 5; Texas,
2; Washington, 1; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 1. Total, 70.
Four other local unions, Locals Nos. 100, 101, 102, and 103, are maintained
by the United Association for workers in the trade located “ in any locality
where the requisite five men for the formation of a local can not be found.**
They are general membership organizations, membership graduated from
Local No. 100 to Local No. 101 after one year’s membership, then to Local No.
102, etc. Membership in Local No. 103 entitles member to all rights and privi­
leges of membership in a regularly organized local.
Membership.—3,500.

STEAM SHOVEL AND DREDGE MEN, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., in 1896. In 1915 the brotherhood amalgamated
with the Associated Union of Steam Shovelmen, and the combined body was
chartered by the American Federation of Labor as the International Brother­
hood of Steam Shovel and Dredge Men. The International Union of Steam
and Operating Engineers protested against recognition of shovel and dredge
men as an entity, and claimed jurisdiction over the trade. Successive efforts
to adjust the differences between the two organizations and to bring about
amalgamation failed. When, in 1915, the International Brotherhood of Steam
Shovel and Dredge Men refused to merge with the International Union of
Steam and Operating Engineers on the terms of a decision of the executive
council of the American Federation of Labor, its charter was revoked by the
American Federation of Labor. It has remained an independent craft organiza­
tion since 1918.
Objects.—“ With the purpose of establishing for the men in the excavating
industry a wage scale commensurate with their effort and skill, to establish
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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

favorable working conditions for them, to enact or to have enacted laws in
our interest and to be of assistance to all workmen in similar aims, the Inter­
national Brotherhood of Steam Shovel and Dredge Men is organized.” (Pre­
amble to constitution.)
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Engineers, operators, cranemen, firemen, and oilers em­
ployed on steam shovels and dredges (with the exception of firemen employed
on dredges on the Great Lakes), clam shells, drag lines, orange peels, and in
fact any machine engaged in excavation, regardless of motive power. * * *
The International Brotherhood also claims jurisdiction over watchman on
these machines.”
Government.—General executive board, consisting of general president, two
general vice presidents, general secretary-treasurer, and seven district repre­
sentatives, “ shall act on all general business of the brotherhood, take up and
adjust all grievances, requests for charters,” etc., and “ shall have power to
suspend or expel any international, local, or district officer ” for cause.
2. Districts: Canada is divided into two districts; the United States into
live. “ Paid representatives shall be in charge of each district, whose salaries
shall be paid by the district. This representative will conduct the business of
the district in accordance with the laws of the general organization. * ♦ *
The districts are conceded and will have authority over all district affairs such
as enforcing and establishing their wage scale, the adoption of district laws
.to apply within their own territorial lines providing they do not conflict with
the constitution,” etc.
District executive board is composed of district president, vice president,
secretary-treasurer, and four trustees.
3. Local unions: “ Local lodges shall be under the jurisdiction of the district
in which they are located.”
4. Initiative and referendum: No convention. All legislation, constitutional
amendments, and election of all officers, general, district, and local (in locals
of over 25 membership) by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Twelve months’ experience for engineers and
cranemen; one month’s experience for firemen and oilers.
Agreements:—Negotiated by district executives to cover entire district.
Benefits.—Death; strike (by assessment).
Official organ.—Steam Shovel and Dredge Magazine.
Headquarters.—Machinists’ Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—Districts: No. 1—Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota,
Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota. South Dakota, and Wisconsin; No. 2—
Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New
Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Vermont, West Virginia; No. 3—
Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Okla­
homa, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas; No. 4—Cali­
fornia, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Canal Zone; No. 5—Idaho, Montana,
Oregon, and Washington; No. 6—Western Canada; No. 7—Eastern Canada.
Local unions: United States—Arkansas, 1; California, 2; Colorado, 1;
Georgia, 1; Illinois, 2; Indiana, 2; Kansas, 1; Kentucky, 1; Massachusetts, 1;
Minnesota, 1; Missouri, 1; New York, 2; Ohio, 3; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 2;
Tennessee, 1; Texas, 2; Washington, 2; Wisconsin, 1; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—
Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 1; Ontario, 2. Total, 34.
Membership.—11,500.

STONE CUTTERS* ASSOCIATION OF NORTH AMERICA, JOURNEY­
MEN
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized December 5, 1887. Craft unions of stonecutters were among the
earliest established in the United States, but the organization as it exists
to-day was launched on December 5, 1887, at a convention held in Chicago,
111., attended by representatives from 20 widely scattered cities. The stone­
cutters were the first craft to obtain a universal eight-hour day, which was
accomplished by 1904. Up to 1907 the Journeymen Stone Cutters’ Association
had been an independent organization, but it affiliated with the American Fed­
eration of Labor in that year.
Two rival organizations of stonecutters existed in New York City—the New
York Stone Cutters’ Society and the Architectural Sculptors and Carvers’
Association of New York. In 1915 both these organizations merged with the




BU11.DINU TRADES

41

Journeymen Stone Cutters, which thus became the only organization in the
trade, with jurisdiction over carvers as well as cutters.
The official organ of the association has been in continuous publication since
1888.
Objects.—“ The objects of this association are: To protect the trade from the
dangers surrounding it and by cooperative effort to place ourselves on a founda­
tion sufficiently strong to prevent further encroachment. We propose to main­
tain an apprentice system, to encourage a higher standard of skill, and to culti­
vate a feeling of friendship among the men of our craft.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The cutting, dressing, setting, carving, fitting, picking
out of all stone for position on the wall, drilling and patching of all stone,
marble, Caen stone and artificial stone, exterior and interior, in or about a
building, irrespective of any finish that may be specified; the trimming and
rubbing down of all stone and artificial stone where stonecutters* tools, car­
borundum, emery or coarse sandstone is used; the molding of all artificial stone
and the cutting of terra cotta in shops; all reinforced concrete, concrete cement
blocks or artificial stone dressed or cut with stonecutters’ tools, bush hammer
and patent hammer; this classification to cover all stonecutting done in quar­
ries, shops or buildings, and in the construction of bridges, culverts, manholes,
archways, etc., and the cutting of street curbings and all rock-faced stonecutting.”
Government.—General officers are president, vice president, general secretarytreasurer, and an executive board of nine elected members, one from each dis­
trict. They are the executive and administrative heads of the organization.
“All local, State and provincial conferences shall be subordinate to and abide
by the rulings of officers of the association.”
2. State, provincial, and district conferences: Formed from two-thirds or more
of the locals in their respective territories, and “ shall have power to make
laws to govern themselves ♦ * ♦ so long as such laws do not conflict with
the constitution and by-laws of the association.
3. Local unions: “All local unions shall have the right to establish their own
local laws, provided they do not conflict with the constitution.”
4. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Journeymen stone cutters and carvers, bluestone cutters and carvers, marble cutters, marble setters and carvers, bridge
and curb cutters, tool sharpeners and grinders, and all who operate stone,
bluestone, marble, and artificial stonecutting and sawing machinery and all
molders in artificial stone plants and all who are engaged in the fabrication of
stone, bluestone or artificial stone, stone setting and interior marble setting,
who are citizens of the United States or Canada, or who have declared citi­
zenship intentions, are eligible to membership, after demonstrating ability by
actual work performed.
“ Planermen and all machinemen, including all men operating diamond saws,
circular diamond saws, lathes, carborundum machinery used in the fabrication
of all materials over which we claim jurisdiction, may become members.”
“ Molders of cast or artificial stone will be taken in under a separate
charter.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ No applicant under the age of 16 years or
over 20 shall be allowed to apprentice himself to the trade. All apprentices to
the stonecutting industry shall serve a term of four years and shall comply
with all the rules and regulations governing journeymen.
“ One apprentice will be allowed to every 5 men in a shop; 2 apprentices
to 15 men; but in no case shall there be more than 3 apprentices in any one
shop.
“ Locals shall stipulate the rate of wages apprentices under their jurisdiction
shall receive each year.
“ The employer shall provide all tools for apprentices until said apprentices
become journeymen. Apprentices are not to use pneumatic machines.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions with local employers, generally
individually but occasionally in association.
Agreements generally call for closed shop, 44-hour week, arbitration of dis­
putes, hourly rate of pay based on skill and length of training.
Constitutional 44-hour week; eight hours per day for five days in week, four
hours on Saturday.




42

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN t b a d e -t t n io n s

Constitutional prohibitions: “ This association strictly prohibits piecework
and subcontracting of stone cutting or carving. * * * Any member taking a
contract shall be compelled to take out an employer's card. Employers shall
not work at cutting or carving unless they have two or more members of the
association employed. ♦ * * This association does not permit its members
to do any carving unless they receive carvers’ wages. Carvers shall receive at
least $1 per day more than journeymen stonecutters. * * * No member
of this association shall be allowed to work on any material that is fabricated
in a prison. * * * No members of this association shall be permitted to make
time contracts with employers. No member of this association is to cut stone
where lines are drawn on by apprentices or nonmembers/’
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death.
Official organ.—The Stone Cutters' Journal.
Headquarters.—American Central Life Building, Indianapolis, Ind.
Organization.—Districts:
District No. 1. California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming, New
Mexico, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, and Washington.
District No. 2. North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wiscon­
sin, Kansas, and Iowa.
District No. 3. Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, and Kentucky.
District No. 4. Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia,
Florida, South Carolina, and Oklahoma.
District No. 5. Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and North Carolina.
District No. 6. Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, District of
Columbia, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine,
New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.
.District No. 7. Quebec, Newfoundland, Maritime Provinces.
District No. 8.—Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia.
District No. 9. Ontario.
State and provincial conferences: Alberta and Quebec; Ohio, Oklahoma, and
Texas.
Local union: United States—Alabama, 1; Arkansas, 1; California, 1; Colo­
rado, 3; Connecticut, 4; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 1; Georgia, 1; Idaho,
1; Illinois, 9; Indiana, 13; Iowa, 4; Kansas, 8; Kentucky, 3; Louisiana, 1;
Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 3; Michigan, 4; Minnesota, 5; Missouri, 4 ; Mon­
tana, 2; Nebraska, 2; New Jersey, 2; New York, 11; Ohio, 16; Oklahoma, 2;
Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 11; Rhode Island, 1; Tennessee, 3; Texas, 4; Utah, 1;
Virginia, 1; Washington, 2; West Virginia, 3; Wisconsin, 4; Wyoming, 1.
Canada—Alberta, 3; British Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 9; Quebec, 3;
Saskatchewan, 2. Total, 156.
Membership.—5,075.




METALS AND MACHINERY
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Face
Metal Trades Department, American Federation of Labor___________ . ___. . .
7
Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, International Brotherhood of________
44
Boilermakers, Iron Shipbuilders and Helpers of America, International Brother­
47
hood o f ____________________________ . _________________________________
Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers, International. Association
of (classified under Building Trades):_________________________________
15
Draftsmen’s Unions, International Federation of Technical Engineers, Archi­
tects, and------------------------------------------------------------ -------------------------------48
Electrical Workers of- America, International Brotherhood of (classified under .
Building Trades)----------------------------------------------------------------------------------22
Engineers, International Union of Steam and Operating (classified under
Building Trades)--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----27
Engravers7 Union, International Metal_____________________________ _______
40
Firemen and Oilers, International Brotherhood of-------------------------------------49
Foundry Employees, International Brotherhood of__________________________
50
Iron, Steel, and Tin Workers of North America, Amalgamated Association o f.
51
Machinists, International Association of__________________________________
52
Metal Workers’ International Association, Sheet___________________________
57
Molders* Union of North America, International____________________________
59
Pattern Makers' League of America______________________________________
61
Polishers’ International Union, Metal____________________________________ _
62
Stove Mounters’ International Union of North America__________________ __
63
Independent organizations:
Automobile, Aircraft, and Vehicle Workers of America, United______________
43
Metal Workers of America, Amalgamated_________________________________
56

AUTOMOBILE, AIRCRAFT, AND VEHICLE WORKERS OF AMERICA,
UNITED
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1918. This organization was originally the International
Union of Carriage and Wagon Workers, which organized in 1891 and affiliated
to the American Federation of Labor in 1893.
When the industry in which the union functioned changed from car­
riage and wagon making to automobile manufacture, the union endeavored
to change with it By a resolution introduced into the American Federa­
tion of Labor convention of 1910 the carriage and wagon workers sought
an extension of jurisdiction- to cover the automobile industry, carrying with
it the addition of the word “ automobile ” to the name of the organization.
At a conference of the heads of the American Federation of Labor and
the craft unions interested, held in April, 1911, an agreement was reached
by which the International Union of Carriage and Wagon Workers, already
an industrial union, could proceed with the organization of the automobile
factories without interference from the craft unions. The carriage and
wagon workers’ union was to accept the cards of the craft men who desired
to transfer their membership and was to concede the right of the craft
unionists to remain in their respective organizations if they so preferred.
In the 1912 convention of the American Federation of Labor the Brother­
hood of Blacksmiths charged the carriage, and wagon workers’ union with bad
faith and violation of the agreement. The whole subject was throwo open
again and the convention of 1913 passed a group resolution presented by
the blacksmiths, the slieet-metaj workers, the metal polishers, the painters,
the pattern makers, the machinists, the. carpenters, the electrical workers,
and the upholsterers demanding that the carriage and wagon workers’ union
release its members to the respective craft unions holding ,jurisdiction and
that the word “ automobile” be droned from the title of that organization.
Succeeding conventions reaffirmed the craft principle as applied to the
situation in the automobile industry, and in April, 1918, the International
Union of Carriage and Wagon Workers was expelled from the American
Federation of Labor for failure to comply with convention decisions.




43

44

handbook

o f a m e r ic a n

trade-u n io n s

Following the separation from the American Federation of Labor the union
adopted a new constitution and launched an independent industrial organiza­
tion under the name of United Automobile, Aircraft, and Vehicle Workers of
America.
Object.—“ The object of this organization shall be to establish and uphold a
fair and equitable rate of wages, lessen the hours of labor, and regulate all
labor matters pertaining to members.
“ To educate the workers in all economic and political questions neces­
sary to better the condition of wage earners; to endeavor to replace strikes
by arbitration and conciliation in settlement of all disputes concerning wages
and conditions of employment; to elevate, protect, and maintain the position
of the workers in our industry.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The automobile, aircraft, and vehicle industry.
Government.—“ The government of this organization shall be vested in a
general executive board, consisting of the general officers and five members
to be elected by the local in the city in which the general headquarters is
located. * * * It is the duty of the general executive board to repre­
sent the general organization in every respect. The general executive board
shall decide all questions of jurisdiction and law and shall have full power to
authorize strikes, so far as they are not prohibited by this constitution.*'
2. Local unions: “ The shop shall be the basic unit of structure, local unions
to be composed of an unlimited number of shop units.”
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Qualifications for membership.—Any worker of good moral character engaged
in the industry is eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None by general organization. So far as ap­
prenticeship system exists it is regulated in agreements.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, with the approval of the general
executive board, but “ it shall be obligatory upon all unions to insert the arbi­
tration clause in all contracts,” and “ it shall be mandatory to provide for the
lay-off system in every contract.”
Benefits.—Strike and lockout.
Official organ.—The Auto Worker.
Headquarters.—No. 4620 Beaubien Street, Detroit, Mich.
Organisation.—The unit of organization is the shop. Local unions: Illinois,
1; Michigan, 2; Missouri, 1; New Jersey, 1; New York, 2 ; Ohio, 3; Pennsyl­
vania, 1; Wisconsin, 1. Total, 12.
Membership.—3,000.

BLACKSMITHS, DROP FORGERS, AND HELPERS, INTERNATIONAL
BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Atlanta, Ga., in 1889. An organization called the Grand Union
of Machinists and Blacksmiths was formed at Philadelphia, Pa., on March 3,
1859, by delegates from live cities in three States. It did not survive the
Civil War, and was succeeded by local assemblies of machinists and black­
smiths organized under the Knights of Labor, the first of which was in
Philadelphia, in 1873.
The present organization began as an association of railroad blacksmiths
under the title of International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths. It was practi­
cally wiped out by the American Railway Union strike, but revived sufficiently
to secure a charter from the American Federation of Labor in 1897. Juris­
diction was extended to include blacksmith helpers, and in 1903 the name o f
the organization was changed to International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths
and Helpers.
Drop forgers formed an organization at Boston, Mass., in 1900, and in 1905
merged with the International Association of Machinists. They withdrew later
and formed an independent organization known as the Brotherhood of Drop
Forgers, Die Sinkers, and Trimming Die Makers. Affiliation to the American
Federation of Labor was refused because of conflicting jurisdiction, since black­
smiths included drop forging in their claims. In 1919 the Brotherhood of
Drop Forgers amalgamated with the Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, which then
became the International. Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers, and
Helpers.




METALS AND MACHINERY

45

Objects.—“ Believing it to be the natural right of those who toil to enjoy to
the fullest extent the wealth created by their labor; and realizing that under
the changing industrial conditions of our time and the enormous growth of
syndicates and other aggressions of capital it is impossible for us to obtain
the full reward of our labor except by united action; and believing that
organization founded on sound principles as to the wisest use of our citizen­
ship, based upon the class struggle along cooperative, economic, and political
lines, with a view of restoring the common wealth of our governments to
the people, and by using the natural resources and means of production and
distribution for the benefit of all the people, * * * we pledge ourselves to
labor unitedly in behalf of the principles herein set forth, to perpetuate our
association on the basis of friendship and justice, to expound its objects and
work for their general adoption.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ It is hereby established and imperatively ordered that
the following shall be blacksmith work, which includes all blacksmith work
in the railroad shops, shipyards, navy yards, arsenals and naval stations,
automobile shops, carriage and wagon shops, motor cycle shops, and contract
shops, frog and crossing shops, drop-forge shops, forge shops, spring shops,
chain shops, nut, bolt, and rivet shops, and acetylene, electric, or thermit
welding shops, and all other shops where blacksmith work is done.
“ (a) All forging, all welding, whether by acetylene, electric, or thermit or
any other process, also flue and tube welding, straightening of iron and steel,
both hot and cold; all blacksmiths* work on structural-shaped steel, all forging,
tempering, and dressing of tools, including sharp-edge tools and instruments;
bending and straightening of angle iron, channel iron, T iron, and I beams,
whether done hot or cold, from furnaces or fires, operating forging and upset­
ting machines, drop forging and trimmers, both hot and cold; axle forgers, bolt
machines, bulldozer machine work, or any machine doing blacksmith work,
and all work performed on Bradley hammer, punch, and shear machines
when connected with the blacksmith department, hot or cold hand press
machines, all frames on engines, cars, tanks, and trucks, all welding of rails,
building up switch points and frogs, and all track work, all dredge-dipper
and steam shovel work, hardeners, case hardeners, annealers, and heat treaters,
and the reclaiming of scrap.
“ (&) Automobile and wagon and carriage shops, putting on, taking off, and
fitting auto fenders, putting on running-board brackets, building and rebuild­
ing fire trucks, making and repairing all springs, putting on and taking off
all springs, making all springs and spring fittings, setting and riveting when
done in conjunction with blacksmith work, grinding pertaining to blacksmith
work, benders, resetters, bath men, forgers, and finishers.
“ (c) Putting on and taking off rubber tires, putting flanges on wheels,
putting on and repairing bumpers, putting on and taking off wheels, putting
on and riveting fiber of brake bands, putting on and taking off radius rods,
putting on pyrene brackets, repairing and setting all axles, straightening and
repairing of auto frames, putting on brackets for radiator, fitting up wind­
shields, putting handles on doors, fitting hand rails on back of auto,
fitting up gongs. All drilling, filing, lining up wheels, adjusting brake rods,
tip welding and tire setting, making and putting on license brackets, headlight
brackets, making and putting on body iron.
“ (d) All the foregoing, and in addition thereto any other work which does
now or in the future may, as industries develop, fall naturally within the
scope of the jurisdiction of blacksmiths, drop forgers, and helpers.”
Government.—1. General president 11shall have the direction and supervision
of all subordinate and district lodges • * ♦ and have full control of the
work of the organization throughout the jurisdiction of the brotherhood.”
General executive board consists of president, secretary-treasurer, and seven
elected members, one of whom shall be a member of a local in Canada.
2. District council: Composed of delegates from all affiliated locals within a
given district; affiliation compulsory. “Action by a district council in regu­
lating the affairs of said district shall be final.” Constitution dictated by
international brotherhood.
Railroad councils: Composed of delegates from affiliated shops or locals.
Affiliation compulsory. Constitution dictated by international brotherhood.
3. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution and by-laws dictated by inter­
national brotherhood.
4. Convention: Held quadrennially.




46

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TBADE-UNIONS

Initiative, referendum, and recall. Nomination and election of general offi­
cers by referendum; constitutional amendments by initiative and referendum.
Recall of officers provided for.
Qualifications for membership.—Any man who is a competent worker at any
of the occupations embraced in the jurisdiction, “ capable of earning the mini­
mum wage established by the organization in his locality,” is eligible to mem­
bership. Persons who are members “ of the Industrial Workers of the World,
State militia, miners* police, sheriffs office, police force, detective force, or
secret-service force” are ineligible. Any blacksmith “ conducting a black­
smith shop and employing not to exceed three blacksmiths ” may be admitted
to membership.
Colored: “ Where there are a sufficient number of colored helpers they may
be organized as an auxiliary local and shall be under the jurisdiction of the
white local having jurisdiction over that territory. * * * Colored helpers
shall not transfer except to another auxiliary local composed of colored mem­
bers, and colored members shall not be promoted to blacksmiths or helper
apprentices, and will not be admitted to shops where white helpers are now
employed.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“Any boy engaging himself to learn the trade
of blacksmithing must serve four years. He shall in no case leave his em­
ployer without just cause. Any difficulty arising between the apprentice and
his employer must be submitted to the shop committee.
"T he following ratio of apprentices will be allowed: One to every five
blacksmiths regularly employed.
“ No boy shall begin to learn the trade until he is 16 years old nor after the
age of 21 years.
“Apprentices who have served six months shall be eligible to membership.
“ Local unions shall do all in their power to encourage the apprentice
system.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by district councils or local unions, approved by
the general executive board. District councils and railroad system councils
must establish a minimum wage rate, by constitutional requirement. Con­
tracts' covering railroad workers are negotiated in conjunction with other
railroad crafts.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers,
and Helpers’ Bi-Monthly Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 2922 Washington Boulevard, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—District councils: Chicago, 111.; Greater New York; San
Francisco and vicinity; St. Louis; New Orleans; Boston; Pittsburgh and
vicinity; Philadelphia and vicinity; Norfolk, Va., and vicinity; Anthracite
District.
Railroad systems councils: Missouri Pacific; Canadian Pacific; Baltimore &
Ohio; Frisco; New York, New Haven & Hartford; Illinois Central and allied
lines; Milwaukee System; Louisville & Nashville; Erie; Chicago & North
Western; Rock Island; Chesapeake & Ohio; Southern and allied lines; Big
Four; Norfolk & Western; Boston & Maine; Central of Georgia; Missouri,
Kansas & Texas; Delaware & Hudson; Denver & Rio Grande; northwest
district (Wisconsin) ; Mobile & Ohio; Wabash; Atlantic Coast Line; Santa Fe;
Burlington; Chicago & Alton; Seaboard Air Line; Pennsylvania; Union
Pacific; Southern Pacific; New York Central and allied lines; Delaware, Lacka­
wanna & Western; Lehigh; Chicago Great Western; Central of New Jersey;
Grand Trunk; switching and terminal lines.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 5; Arizona, 2; Arkansas, 2; Cali­
fornia, 4 ; Colorado, 1; Connecticut, 2; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 5 (one
colored auxiliary); Georgia, 6 (two colored auxiliaries) ; Illinois, 20; Indiana,
11; Iowa, 6; Kansas, 1; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 2; Maryland, 5; Massachu­
setts, 4; Michigan, 6; Minnesota, 5; Mississippi, 1; Missouri, 6 < Montana, 5;
Nevada, 1; New Jersey, 3; New York, 14; North Carolina, 3 (one colored
auxiliary); Ohio, 16; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 16; South Carolina, 3 (one
colored auxiliary); South Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 7 (one colored auxiliary);
Texas, 1; Utah, 1; Virginia, 6 (two colored auxiliaries); Washington, 2;
West Virginia, 8; Wisconsin, 5; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—Alberta, 2; British
Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 2; New Brunswick, 2 ; Ontario, 6; Quebec, 5. Total,
212.
Membership.—15,000.




METALS AND MACHINERY

47

BOILERMAKERS, IRON SHIPBUILDERS AND HELPERS OF AMER­
ICA, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., October 1, 1880, at a conference held by representa­
tives of nine independent unions. A few years later boiler makers in the South
organized the National Brotherhood of Boilermakers, at Atlanta, Ga. At a
special conference held at Chicago, September 1,1893, the two national organiza­
tions consolidated under the name of the International Brotherhood of Boiler­
makers, Iron Shipbuilders and Helpers of America.
Objects.—“ Organization beis*g necessary to protect the wage earners and to
institute better conditions with the assistance of progressive, intelligent com­
binations, therefore, in order to emancipate our fellow craftsmen from the
oppressive burdens they are now suffering under, we have organized this
brotherhood.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All boilers, all forms of tube work, all grate work and
rigging connected with same, all chipping and calking, all front-end and
netting work, fire doors and fire-door frames, all breeching, uptakes, iron-andsteel-ship building, all rigging work, all work in connection with mold loft,
all fabricated parts of ships, all metal plates and shapes in connection with
construction and repair of steel, composite and concrete ships, barges, tankers
and boats, masts, derricks, booms, ship tanks, air ports, metal doors, venti­
lators, foundations, pillars and stanchions, inboard and outboard fittings, sucli
as house pipes, bitts, chocks, plugs, pads, ringbolts, railings, metal ladders,
gratings, doublers and stiffening rings, fire and engine room and other portable
floors and platforms, all drilling and tapping in connection with construction,
installation, and repair of ships and their equipment, it being distinctly under­
stood that a failure to mention any parts of the work belonging to this brother­
hood does not constitute a relinquishment of any of our rights. All plate
straightening on tank and ship work, all iron and steel tanks, pontoons, air,
oil, gas and water tight work, purifying boxes, standpipes, all riveted iron and
steel pipe lines, smoke consumers, brewery vats, condensers, superheaters,
water towers, all work on furnaces, roasters and converters around mines, mills,
and smelters, gasometers, including all framework in connection with same, all
heaters, and all sheet-iron work of 16 gauge and over, all stacks in connection
with mines, mills and smelters, manufacturing and power plants of all kinds,
all connections between boilers and stacks (commonly known as breeching),
built of sheet steel or iron, all iron and steel work contracted for by boiler
firms, shipbuilding firms, or other firms employing our members, all tube welding
and tube setting, acetylene or electric welding, or any other welding process
used on work formerly done by our members, all steel or iron engine tank
frames or trucks, all steel-car work, all angle-iron work, all laying out,
straightening, bending or repairing, of channel irons, I beams and brake beams,
and the installing of all tanks, including enamel, penstocks, sluice-tube works,
all breechings and framework pertaining thereto, all water-tube work, all
water-wheel and turbine work, all water-wheel and turbine casings and all
connections thereto, all framework of whatever description pertaining to any
and all of the above classifications of work, all work around mines, mills,
and smelters except that which is included in the exact construction of
building bridges and viaducts, and the erection of gallows, frames, the prepar­
ing and fabricating of any and all materials handled by our members, the
building and repairing of skips, top riggings, ore, water and toilet cars, all
ore bins, hoppers, skips, chutes, and shaft work in connection with mines,
mills, and smelters, all soot blowers and all work pertaining to the trade in
all of its departments not herein mentioned.*’
Government.—1. “ The international lodge has full jurisdiction over all sub­
ordinate lodges and is the highest tribunal of the brotherhood.”
“ The executive and judicial powers only of the international lodge when not
in session shall be vested in an international executive council of the brother­
hood, which shall consist of the international president, assistant president,
and all the international vice presidents (10).”
Legislative powers reserved to convention and initiative and referendum.
2. Local unions: “ Subordinate lodges shall be competent to make, alter, or
amend their by-laws, rules, and regulations,” subject to approval of the inter­
national. Constitution dictated by international.
3. Convention: Meets every third year, legislates and elects general officers.




48

HANDBOOK OP AMEBICAN TBADE-UNION8

Qualifications for membership.—“An applicant for membership must be a
free-born male citizen of some civilized country, 16 years of age, working at
some branch of the trade at the time of making application.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ There shall be only one apprentice to every
five boiler makers or shipbuilders, * * * and all firms employing such ap­
prentices shall draw up an agreement satisfactory to this organization.
“Any person engaging himself as an apprentice must be between the ages
of 16 and 40 and must be given an opportunity to learn all branches of the
combined trade of this brotherhood.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions through wage-scale committees.
International officers act with other organizations in agreements covering rail­
road workers and shipbuilders.
Benefits.—Strike, death, and disability.
Official organ.—Official Journal of the Boilermakers and Iron Shipbuilders.
Headquarters.—Brotherhood Block, Kansas City, Kans.
Organization.—Local unions in railroad work are organized into district
lodges, one district for each railroad system so organized. Systems represented
in district lodges are: Erie; New York Central; Southern; Chicago & North
Western; Big Four; Northern Pacific; Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul; Cana­
dian Pacific; Baltimore & Ohio; and Chesapeake & Ohio.
Local lodges: United States—Alabama, 6; Arizona, 2; Arkansas, 2;. Alaska,
1; California, 13; Colorado, 4; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 2; Georgia, 3;
Idaho, 1; Illinois, 27; Indiana, 17; Iowa, 18; Kansas, 8; Kentucky, 7; Lou­
isiana. 5; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts, 6; Michigan, 8; Minnesota. 7; Missis­
sippi, 1; Missouri, 6; Montana, 6; Nebraska, 4; Nevada, 2; New Hampshire, 1;
New Jersey, 7; New York, 22; North Carolina, 4; North Dakota, 1; Ohio, 23;
Oklahoma, 2; Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 19; South Carolina, 2; South Dakota,
3; Tennessee, 7; Texas, 8; Utah, 2; Vermont, 1; Virginia, 9; Washington, 5;
West Virginia, 9; Wisconsin, 12; Wyoming, 2; Hawaiian Islands, 1; Canal
Zone, 2. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 3; Manitoba, 2; New Bruns­
wick, 2; Nova Scotia, 1; Ontario, 15; Quebec, 6; Saskatchewan, 4. Total, 342.
Membership.—23,000.

DRAFTSMEN’S UNIONS, INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF TECHNICAL ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized 1918, in Washington, D. C.
Objects.—The object of this federation shall be the encouragement of friendly
relations between the employer and the employee, and for the establishing of
methods for the amicable adjustment of any difficulties that may arise be­
tween them, and for the advancement and improvement of the economic, moral,
and social conditions of the individual members of the respective crafts that
may enlist under the banner of organized labor; and to the attainment of these
objects the encouragement of the formation of local unions.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Technical engineers, architects, and draftsmen.
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of the president and five vice
presidents, who shall represent the following divisions: State and municipal,
industrial, architectural, Federal, and marine. “ The duties of the executive
council shall be to pass upon all matters of policy of the federation affecting
the rights and developments of the federation and its affiliated locals,” subject
to review and action of convention or referendum.
2. Local unions: Subordinate to and governed by rules of the international.
3. Convention: Meets annually, elects officers and enacts legislation. Ini­
tiative. referendum, and recall.
Qualifications for membership.—“All technical engineering and architectural
employees who have not the final power to hire and to fire other such employees
shall be eligible to membership,” with full rights and privileges. “All techni­
cal engineering and architectural employees who have the -final power to hire
and fire shall be entitled to all rights and privileges of membership except the
right to vote or hold office.”
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None. (Official Bulletin; discontinued July, 1924.)
Headquarters.—American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C,




METALS AND MACHINERY

49

Organization.—Local onions only: California, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Illinois, 1; Massachusetts, 2; New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 1; New York, 2;
Pennsylvania, 1; Rhode Island, 1; South Carolina, 1; Virginia, 1; Washington,
1. Total, 14.
Membership.—500.

ENGRAVERS’ UNION, INTERNATIONAL METAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Buffalo, N. Y., September 7, 1920.
Objects.—“ To encourage a closer relationship among the various crafts
within the industry to the end that the principle of mutual helpfulness shall
be extended so as to embrace the workers of the entire industry.1'
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Metal engraving (except stationery and jewelry) ; steel
and brass stamps and rolls; steel and brass embossing dies and rolls; book­
binders' stamps and rolls; picture-frame dies and rolls; lace and wall-paper
dies and rolls; steel and brass type; brass signs and all other branches of
steel and brass engraving; routers of all steel and brass stamps, dies, hubs,
and brass signs; metal stencil cutters.
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of president, vice president, and
one representative from each local union “ shall have general supervision of
the business of the international union and of local unions."
2. Local unions: Subordinate; “ to local unions is conceded the right to
make all necessary laws for local self-government which do not conflict with
the laws of the international.''
3. Convention: To meet annually; elects general officers; enacts legislation.
Constitutional amendments by convention.
Qualifications for membership.—Steel and brass engravers, hub cutters, and
routers other than employers are eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ We favor the adoption of a legal apprentice­
ship. No employer shall have more than one apprentice for every five men in
his employ and not more than two apprentices will be allowed in any shop.”
Agreements.—Negotiated independently by local unions through committees.
No signed contracts.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—Bulletin.
Headquarters.—Rochester, N. Y.
Organization.—Local unions: Illinois, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 1;
New York, 2; Wisconsin, 1. Total, 6.
Membership.—140.

FIREMEN AND OILERS, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Kansas City, Mo., in December, 1898, from a number of
American Federation of Labor locals and some independent unions of firemen.
As at first organized it was called the International Brotherhood of Stationary
Firemen and included only men engaged in that work. Later it became neces­
sary to extend jurisdiction and control to the oilers and helpers in the boiler
rooms, and in 1902 the name was changed to International Brotherhood of
Stationary Firemen and Oilers. Some years later the word “ stationary”
was dropped from the title of the organization.
By a ruling of the Railroad Labor Board the Brotherhood of Firemen and
Oilers was granted the right to represent the roundhouse and railroad shop
laborers in hearings before that body. Prior to the war, workers of that
class, when organized at all, were in American Federation of Labor local
unions. These locals were transferred to the Brotherhood of Firemen and
Oilers as a result of the Labor Board decision. Railroad-shop laborers are
also, however, organized under and included in the jurisdiction of the Brother­
hood of Maintenance of Way Employees.
Objects.—“ The objects of this brotherhood shall be to organize local unions;
to place our occupation upon a higher plane of intelligence, efficiency, and
skill; to encourage the settlement of disputes between employers and em­
ployees by arbitration; to secure employment and a fair wage for the same;
provide for a respectable burial for our dead; to establish schools of instruc­
tion for imparting practical knowledge of modern operation of steam plants;




50

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

to reduce the hours of day labor; and by all legal, proper means to elevate
our moral, social, and intellectual condition.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Boiler firemen, retort firemen, water tenders, boiler
washers, boiler-washers’ helpers, oilers, ash handlers, coal passers, stoker
firemen, stoker helpers, roundhouse and railroad shop helpers, and laborers.
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of president, secretary-treasurer,
and seven vice presidents. “ All powers of the international * * * when
not in session in convention, shall be vested in the international president,
with the approval of the international executive board.” .
2. State districts: When organized by three or more locals all locals must
affiliate. “ State districts shall have the right to make their own constitutions
and by-laws and make such rules and laws” as may be necessary, in con­
formity with international constitution.
3. Local union: “All local unions shall have the right to compile constitu­
tions and by-laws for their government, subject to the approval of the inter­
national president.”
4. Convention: Held triennially; elects general officers and enacts legisla­
tion. Amendments to constitution by convention vote only. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any “ trustworthy ” person employed within
the jurisdiction is eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions with individual employers on terms
approved by the executive board before negotiations are begun. Railroad
agreements negotiated in conjunction with Federated Shop Crafts.
Agreements are of indefinite duration, with continuation clause. Cover
hours (eight-hour day), weekly wage rates, and shop conditions.
Benefits.—Death; strike donations.
Official organ.—Firemen and Oilers* Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 3611 North Twenty-fourth Street, Omaha, Nebr.
Organization.—State district unions: Massachusetts, Illinois, Iowa, and Ne­
braska.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 7; Arizona, 2; Arkansas, 17; Cali­
fornia, 13; Colorado, 9; Connecticut, 3; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 2;
Florida, 6; Georgia, 8; Idaho, 6; Illinois, 43; Indiana, 26; Iowa, 42; Kansas,
42; Kentucky, 26; Louisiana, 14; Maine. 10; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts, 24;
Michigan, 18; Minnesota, 24; Mississippi, 14; Missouri, 31; Montana, 16;
Nebraska, 16; New Hampshire, 6; New Jersey, 11; New Mexico, 8; New York,
42; Nevada, 1; North Carolina, 8; North Dakota, 14; Ohio, 33; Oklahoma, 17;
Oregon, 7; Pennsylvania, 30; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina, 12; South
Dakota, 10; Tennessee, 15; Texas, 38; Utah, 6; Virginia, 28; Vermont, 2;
Washington, 13; Wisconsin, 18; West Virginia, 31; Wyoming, 7. Canada—
Manitoba, 1; New Brunswick, 2; Nova Scotia, 1; Ontario, 23; Prince Edward
Island, 2; Quebec, 6. Total, 820.
Membership.—17,000.

FOUNDRY EMPLOYEES, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in St. Louis, Mo., on March 26, 1904, from a number of local
unions directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Objects.—Not declared.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All molders’ helpers, cupola tenders, melters, furnace
men, chippers, steel workers, casting cleaners, gangway men, yardmen, crane­
men, flask makers, blackeners, craters, sand cutters, shaker-outs, flask sorters,
pattern carriers, shippers and shipper helpers, enamel workers, and all others
employed in or around foundries and not covered by other legitimate juris­
diction.”
Government.—International executive board, composed of president, five
vice presidents, and secretary-treasurer.
2. Local unions: “ Each local union may have local autonomy in the making
of necessary laws for the governing of their local union, which must not con­
flict with the laws of the international brotherhood.”
3. Convention: Meets triennially; legislates for body and elects general
officers. No referendum.




METALS AND MACHINERY

51

Qualifications for membership.—Any person employed within the jurisdiction
as defined above is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally by agreement committees of local unions,
but subject to approval by the international brotherhood.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 418 Calumet Building, St. Louis, Mo.
Organization.—Local unions only: Illinois, 4; Iowa, 1; Louisiana, 1; Mis­
souri, 4; Montana, 1; New Jersey, 1; New York, 3; Pennsylvania, 3; Ten­
nessee, 1; Hawaii, 1. Total, 20.
Membership.—3,500.

IRON, STEEL, AND TIN WORKERS OF NORTH AMERICA, AMALGA­
MATED ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized August 4, 1876, in Pittsburgh, Pa. It was an amalgamation of
various independent unions in the industry, the most important of which at
the time were the United Sons of Vulcan, the Associated Brotherhood of Iron
and Steel Heaters, Rollers and Roughers, the Iron and Steel Roll Hands’ Union,
and the Nailers’ Union.
Objects.—“ The object of this association shall be the elevation of the posi­
tion of its members; maintenance of the best interests of the association, and
to obtain by conciliation or by other means just and legal a fair remuneration
to members for their labor; and to afford mutual protection to members against
broken contracts, obnoxious rules, unlawful discharge, or other system of injus­
tice or oppression.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Rolling mills, tin mills, steel works, chain works, mail,
tack, spike, bolt and nut factories; pipe mills, and all works run in connection
therewith.
Government.—1. International executive board, composed of president, assist­
ant president and general organizer, secretary-treasurer, assistant secretary,
benefit secretary, managing editor, three divisional vice presidents, and resident
trustee, “ shall have jurisdiction over all matters and subjects not clearly
defined by law.” The president “ shall superintend the work of the associa­
tion throughout the jurisdiction.”
2. Subordinate lodges “ shall have power to make such by-laws for their gov­
ernment as they deem necessary, providing they do not conflict with any of the
laws, rules, or regulations ” of the international organization.
3. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation. Initiative, referendum, and
recall. International officers elected by referendum. Constitutional amend­
ments by convention and referendum or initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person employed at any jo b ” in and
around the works covered by jurisdiction is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Wage scales are drawn up by the wage-scale committees of the
separate craft divisions of the industry at the annual convention. These scales
are then submitted to a conference between local employers and committees
representing local unions, assisted by representatives of the international office.
All agreements terminate annually on the same date.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; sick, accident, disability; death (member and
wife).
Official organ.—Amalgamated Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 510 Fourth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Organization.—Districts: First, Pittsburgh and vicinity; second, West Vir­
ginia and part of Ohio; third, Kentucky, part of Ohio, and Indiana; fourth,
Illinois and Indiana adjacent to Chicago; fifth, Indiana; sixth, Ohio, Detroit,
Mich., and Hamburg, N. Y .; seventh, Alabama; eighth, Erie, Pa.; ninth, Mis­
souri and western Illinois; tenth, Pennsylvania (Scranton, Steelton, Reading,
e tc .); Canadian district.
Local unions: Alabama, 2; California, 3; Illinois, 14; Indiana,. 13; Iowa, 1;
Kentucky, 5; Maryland, 2; Michigan, 2; Missouri, 11; New York, 7; Ohio, 30;
Pennsylvania, 24; Rhode Island, 1; Texas, 1; Utah, 1; Washington, 1; West
Virginia, 8. Total, 126.
Membership.—12,500.




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HANDBOOK OF AMEEICAN TRADE-UNIONS

MACHINISTS, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
The International Association of Machinists grew out of an organization of
19 machinists of Atlanta, Ga., formed on May 5, 1888, which called itself
the United Machinists and Mechanical Engineers of America. A year later,
May 6, 1889, a convention was held in Atlanta, which was attended by 22
delegates representing 34 locals in 14 States. This convention elected national
officers and changed the name of the organization to National Association of
Machinists. Headquarters were established in Atlanta and a journal was
published. In 1890 the general office was moved to Richmond, Va., and in
1891 the name was changed to International Association of Machinists, be­
cause of the expansion of the organization into Canada. In 1899 headquarters
were moved to Washington, where they have remained.
The first general movement for improved working conditions began on May
20, 1901, in a strike for a nine-hour day. By 1903 many agreements were in
force covering increased wages and shorter hours.
The International Union of Bicycle Workers amalgamated with the Inter­
national Association of Machinists in 1899, and in 1904 the Metal Workers of
America combined with the machinists. More recently the International Asso­
ciation of Machinists absorbed the American branch of the English organiza­
tion, the Amalgamated Engineering Union.
Objects.—“ The Grand Lodge of the International Association of Machinists
aims to bring within the organization all employees, male and female, who
are actively engaged in or connected with the machinist’s trade; to adopt and
put into active operation an effective plan for securing the continuous em­
ployment of all members of the organization; to secure the establishment of
a legal apprenticeship system of four years; to impress upon all employers
the necessity of paying the full current wages weekly, giving preference in
employment to members of organized labor, and abolishing personal record
and physical examination requirements; to settle all disputes not defined in
the constitution of this organization and arising between employees and em­
ployers by arbitration; to shorten the hours of labor to 44 hours per week,
consisting of 8 per week day, except on Saturday, which shall be a half
holiday, thereby allowing the members of this organization time and oppor­
tunity for self-improvement and social enjoyment; to adopt and carry out a
plan of cooperation with other crafts—with the ultimate purpose of amal­
gamating all metal trades—thereby eliminating strikes of one organization
at a time and by concerted action all reap the full benefit of their labor; to
stimulate the political education of the members to understand their political
rights and to use the ballot intelligently, to the end that the Government may
be a government of, for, and by the people and not to be used as a tool to
further the ends of combinations of capital for its own aggrandizement; to
urge the membership to vote only for and support candidates who are in favor
of this platform and the following political demands: Initiative, referendum,
and recall, national income tax law, national inheritance law, National and
State employers* liability law; all judges, without exception, to be elected
by vote of the people; national law granting pensions for old age or total
disability and accident benefits; public ownership of all public utilities; woman
suffrage; change of the Constitution of the United States or any country
under our jurisdiction where any of these subjects or questions can be applied;
self-government of cities; abolition of contract system on all public work,
city, county, State, or National, such work to be done on the day-labor plan
at union wages.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The jurisdiction of the International Association of
Machinists includes any person who has served an apprenticeship of four years
at the machinist trade or has acquired a fundamental knowledge of shaping,
sizing, turning, boring, or fitting metal parts of machinery .of any character,
whether said metal be steel, iron, brass, lead, copper, aluminum, or bronze or
any substitute used therefor, as well as any person who may have worked at
the trade for four years, either as a vise hand, lathe hand, planer hand,
slotting-machine hand, milling-machine hand, horizontal or boring machine
hand, operators of Gisholt, Jones & Lamson, and all other turret lathes and
of gear cutters, floor hand, millwright, or general erector of machinery;
persons engaged in the repair and maintenance of machinery; persons making,




METALS AND MACHINERY

53

fitting together, and installing valves of all kinds and flange and high-pressure
piping; persons engaged in the manufacture of metal model novelties, where
hand labor or machine labor is used, jig work, gauge makers or die sinkets,
die, tool, or mold makers, and metal-pattern makers; also automobile chauf­
feurs who operating high-grade touring cars are expected to keep same in
repair; sewing-machine adjusters and adjusters of all kinds of automatic, semi­
automatic, and self-contained machinery.
“ Classification of work included.—The making, erecting, assembling, in­
stalling, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling of all or any parts thereof of
all machinery, engines, motors, pumps, and ail other metal power devices,
either transmission, excavating, elevating, shooting, or conveying, whether
driven by hand, foot, steam, electricity, gas, gasoline, oil, air, water, or other
power, including all metal appurtenances thereto, composed of steel or iron,
whether structural, angle T, boiler, galvanized, ornamental, cast malleable,
bar, tube, pipe, rod, shafting, sheet, or plate; or of nickel, bronze, tin, lead,
copper, brass, aluminum, babbitt, or other metal substitute therefor.
“ The manufacture and installation of all machine tools; the operation of
all machines used in the manufacture of machine-limslied metal parts and
devices and all bench and vise work pertaining thereto, and all machinists'
work on steam, gas, gasoline, oil, air, and water-tight work.
“All riveting, calking, cutting, chipping, patching, grinding, turning, siz­
ing, boring, fitting, laying out, shaping, and drilling pertaining to machinists’
work. All drilling, cutting, and tapping in boilers, tanks, drums, frames, or
other structures required for engine and machinery attachments, mounting, or
other metal construction and installation.
“All oxyacetylene, electric, oil, or thermit welding when used to substitute
the former method of performing new or repair work, including dismantling.
All lubricating devices, injectors, and inspirators, and parts thereof and attach­
ments thereto. All devices used in the transmission of power, except elec­
tric wiring, this to include all line and counter shafting, shaft hangers, shelves,
and pulleys.
“All instrument, gauge, tpol, and die making, metal mold, novelty, model,
and metal-pattern making, and die sinking; the making of jigs, templets, spiral
and coil springs, and all molds for shaping glassware.
“ The manufacture and installation of all printing, paper, and pulp-making
machinery. The manufacture and installation of all brewery machinery, in­
cluding all soakers, Pasteurizers, bottle washers, crowning machines, bottlefilling devices, and conveyors. The manufacture and installation of a!<l factory,
mill, and laundry machinery.
“ The manufacture and repair of all counting, recording, and correspondence
devices, such as cash registers, typewriters, adding machines, and other office
machinery such as sealing and addressing devices.
“ The manufacture and repair and maintaining of all automobiles, fire­
arms, fire engines, locomotives, hydroplanes and airplanes, agricultural machin­
ery and mining machinery, rock drills, and pneumatic devices used as hand
tools for the transmission of power. The manufacture and installation of all
ice-making and refrigerating machinery. The manufacture and installation
of all abattoir, bakery, and confectionery machinery, textile, carding, and gin
machinery, refinining machinery, and machinery used in reducing plants, rockcrushing and quarry machinery, concrete mixers and concrete mill machinery,
rolling mill and steel converting machinery, loading and unloading machinery,
and traveling roadways.
“ The manufacture, installation, repairing, and maintaining of all machinery
used in making malt, cans, nails, pottery, horseshoes, brick, shoes, hats, cloth­
ing, pianos, organs, musical and surgical instruments, tobacco, cigarettes and
cigars, flour, cereals, and all other products where mechanical devices are
necessary for the making.
“ The manufacture and installation of all automatic stokers, all mechanical
devices used in amusement parks, all dredging machinery, and all hoists, ele­
vators, loweratoms, escalators, derricks, and other lifting or hoisting devices.
“ The inspection of all machinery, ordnance, and engines, including locomo­
tives, and the operating of all power machinery during the period of control
or until accepted by the purchaser.
“ Marine work.—All marine work as follows: The installing, assembling, dis­
mantling, and repairing of all engines, pumps, dynamos, refrigerating machin­
ery, steering gear, winches, windlasses, capstans, or other devices used in
handling the ship.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-tXNIONS

“ The removing and replacing of the rudder, propeller shaft and propeller
wheel, and the placing of all deck fittings and mast fittings, including mast
headlights.
“ The installing and repairing of all condensers, evaporators, feed-water
heaters, overhauling and repairing of all valves, either steam, water, air, gas,
oil, or other liquids and strainers attached to hull.
“ The installation of all pipes, pipe hangers, valves, and fittings for engines,
boilers, ice machines, evaporator plants, telemotors, air compressors, and power
pumps.
“ The installation of deck operating gear for all valves.
“ The boring, facing, chasing, or tapping and drilling holes for bolts of all
pipe flanges.
“ The bending, threading, and installing of tubes in boilers in which threads
are used.
“ The bending, welding, and installing of heater coils used for fuel oil tanks,
or heating purposes.
“ The installation of all condensers and feed-water heater tubes, whether
rolled, screwed, or ferruled.
“ The installation of all tubes in oil heaters and coolers, except those under
the jurisdiction of the coppersmiths.
“ The installation of all gratings, ladders, and hand rails, port lights, ven­
tilator operating gear, and water-tight doors.
“ All of the foregoing, and in addition thereto, any other work which does
now or in the future may, as industries develop, fall naturally within the
scope of the jurisdiction of the International Association of Machinists.”
Government.—1. “ The government and superintendence of all district and
local lodges shall be vested in this grand lodge as the supreme head of all such
lodges under its jurisdiction. To it shall belong the authority to determine
the customs and usages in regard to all matters relating to the craft.
“ Between conventions all of the executive and judicial powers of the grand
lodge shall be vested in and exercised by the general executive board, which
shall be composed of the international president, the general secretary-treasurer,
and five elected members.”
2. District lodges: “ District lodges shall be established upon railroads, in
industries where mutual shop interests require it, and in localities where two
or more local lodges exist. * * * District lodges shall have authority over
and control of all local lodges within their jurisdiction, subject to the approval
of the grand lodge.”
3. Local lodges: “ The grand lodge shall provide a constitution for the gov­
ernment and control of local lodges, and all local lodges organized and affiliated
in the grand lodge shall be governed and controlled thereby.” Locals may
adopt their own by-laws, subject to the approval of the general executive
board.
4. Initiative, referendum, and recall. Conventions quadrennially if called by
referendum vote. All general officers nominated and elected by referendum.
Constitutional amendments by referendum or by convention and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any machinist, specialist, machinist helper,
helper apprentice, woman worker, or any apprentice who has served six months*
apprenticeship, working in the machine or metal industry, is eligible to mem­
bership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“Any person engaging himself to learn the
machinist trade shall serve an apprenticeship of four years.
“ The ratio of apprentices shall be one apprentice for every five journey­
man machinists employed. No person shall engage himself as an apprentice
until he has reached 16 years of age, and no person shall engage himself as an
apprentice after he has reached the age of 21; except that any person who
has been a member of two years’ continuous good standing in a local lodge and
has worked as a machinist helper for two years in the shop where he desires to
become an apprentice, may, if he is not at that time past the age of 30 years,
engage himself to his employer as an apprentice. Such person shall be known
as a ‘ helper-apprentice ’ and shall serve three years in learning the machinist
trade, during which time he shall be governed by the rules and laws applicable
to apprentices.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by district or local lodges, subject to approval of
the general executive board.
Benefits.—Strike, lockout, and victimization; death; sick (local only).




METALS AND MACHINERY

55

Official organ.—Machinists’ Monthly Journal.
Headquarters.—Machinists’ Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—District lodges (79 ): Composed of railroad districts (37),
territorial districts (37), and industrial districts (5 ):
Railroad districts

No.

Atlantic Coast Line------------------- 35
Baltimore & Ohio---------------------- 29
Big Four______________________ 23
Boston & Maine-------------------------' 42
Canadian Railroads------------------2
Central of Georgia-------------------- 49
Chesapeake & Ohio-------------------- 66
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy----- 25
Chicago & Eastern Illinois---------- 76
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul—
73
7
Chicago & North Western----------Delaware & Hudson------------------- 41
Delaware, Lackawanna & West­
ern (Pocono district)-------------- 80
Denver & Rio Grande----------------- 20
Erie___________________________
85
Fort Worth & Denver— ----------- 71
Grand Trunk----------------------------106
Illinois Central________________
21
Louisville & Nashville__________
81
Midland Valley------------------------- 70
Missouri Pacific and St. Louis &
. Iron Mountain----------------------5
New York Central---------------------- 84
New York, New Haven & Hart­
ford_________________________
43
Norfolk & Western and Virginia. 30
Northern Pacific and Great North­
ern__________________________ 32
Pennsylvania system----------------- 40
Pere Mprquette------------------------- 17
Rock Island system------------------- 36
San Antonio & Aransas Pass
Railway-------------------------------60
Seaboard Air Line---------------------- 16
Southern Pacific system------------- 89
Southern and affiliated lines____
4
Texas Pacific---------------------------- 51
Union Pacific---------------------------- 11
Wabash system------------------------- 53
Western Maryland-------------------58
Western Pacific________________
91

Territorial districts

No.

Baltimore, Md_________________ 12
Boston, Mass__________________ 38
Chicago, 111., and vicinity_______
8
Cleveland, Ohio________________ 54
Connecticut____________________
22
Detroit, Mich__________________ 60
Fall River, Mass_______________ 64
Fresno, Calif__________________ 98
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada_____ 24
Harrisburg, Pa., and vicinity____ 83
Hudson Valley (N. Y .)_________ 100
Illinois, Southern______________ 27
Indiana________________________ 72
Kalamazoo, Mich______________ 108
Lowell, Mass__________________ 50
Mexico, Me____________ *______ 112
Michigan______________________
90
Milwaukee^ Wis., and vicinity___ 10
Montreal, Canada, and vicinity__ 82
New Jersey____________________ 47
New Jersey (northern)_________
55
33
New York (central portion)_____
New York City and vicinity_____
15
Ohio---------------------------------------- 31
Ohio (eastern)_________________ 88
Philadelphia, Pa_______________
1
Pittsburgh, Pa., and vicinity____
6
Rochester, N. Y________________ 75
St. Louis, Mo., and vicinity______
9
St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minn.. 77
Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and
vicinity---------------------------------- 28
Toledo, Ohio, and vicinity______
57
Toronto, Ontario, Canada_______
46
Vancouver, British Columbia, Can­
ada__________________________ 78
Virginia----------------------------------- 48
Washington and Oregon________
26
Wheeling, W. Va----------------------- 107
Industrial districts

No.

Locomotive manufacturing______ 87
Marine, Gulf Coast, and Rivers__ 104
Marine, South Atlantic_________ 105
Navy yards and arsenals________ 44
Pullman car----------------------------- 93

Local unions, classified as contract, railroad, automobile, and mixed: United
States—Alabama, 12; Arizona, 7; Arkansas, 5; California, 25; Colorado, 4;
Connecticut, 11; Delaware, 3; District of Columbia, 5; Florida, 8; Georgia,
12; Illinois, 65; Idaho, 2; Indiana, 31; Iowa, 29; Kansas, 14; Kentucky, 13;
Louisiana, 11; Maine, 8; Maryland, 12; Massachusetts, 27; Michigan, 18;
Minnesota, 19; Mississippi, 6; Missouri, 26; Montana, 12; Nebraska, 7; Nevada,
4; New Hampshire, 4; New Jersey, 19; New York, 61; North Carolina, 9;
North Dakota, 3; Ohio, 60; Oklahoma, 10; Oregon, 4; Pennsylvania, 55; Rhode
Island, 3; South Carolina, 6; South Dakota, 5; Tennessee, 13; Texas, 21;
Utah, 3; Vermont, 4; Virginia, 18; Washington, 13; West Virginia, 20; Wis-

103312°—26----- 5




56

h a n d b o o k op a m e r ic a n t r a d e -t j n i o n s

consin, 29; Wyoming, 2; Alaska, 1; Hawaii, 1; Porto Rico, 2; Canal Zone, 2 ;
Mexico, 1. Canada—Alberta, 4; British Columbia, 10; Manitoba, 4; New
Brunswick, 3; Nova Scotia, 2; Ontario, 43; Quebec, 10; Saskatchewan, 4.
Total, 845.
Membership.—130,000.

METAL WORKERS OF AMERCIA, AMALGAMATED
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized March 11, 1920. A group of insurgents within the New York
district lodge of the International Association of Machinists called a protest
meeting against the action of the grand lodge with respect to a local election.
At this meeting, held in Cooper Union in New York City, the Amalgamated
Metal Workers was launched as an industrial union. Later in the year the
membership was materially increased when the Brotherhood of Metal Workers,
an independent group also organized on industrial lines, merged with the new
association.
Objects.—“ The object of this organization shall be to educate the workers to
the understanding of the causes of the existing evils of the present society,
economic, political, and social, to enable them to develop the necessary strength
to enforce the principle ‘All power to the workers.* * * * To achieve this
end it is necessary that the workers be organized by industries, as a class.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Metal, machinery, and allied industries.
Government.— “ The government of the Amalgamated Metal Workers of
America shall be vested in the following branches: (a) Local lodges; (&) Shop
committees; (c) Shop steward district councils; (tf) Regional council; (e)
National executive committee; (f) National council; (g) National convention;
(h) Referendum.
“ (a) Local lodges shall have jurisdiction over all financial and educational
work.
“ (&) Shop committees shall be composed of one good standing member from
each department and they shall have supervision over all work pertaining to
the organization within their respective shops.
“ (o) Shop steward district councils shall be composed of all shop stewards
and two delegates from each local lodge within the district * * * and they
shall have control over all legislative, executive, and propaganda work per­
taining to the district
“ (d) Regional council, composed of three delegates from each district, shall
be established for the purpose of coordinating the work of all the districts
within their jurisdiction.
“ (e ) National executive committee shall be composed of seven members,
one from each region, and * * * they shall carry on such organization and
educational work as the welfare of the organization requires and shall adjust
any grievances or differences of opinion that may arise between the districts or
local lodges.
“ (f) National council, composed of three members from each region shall
decide all matters, of moment that arise between conventions * * * shall
appoint the national secretary-treasurer and have full control and supervi­
sion over him.
“ (g) Convention. Held annually.”
Qualifications for membership.—“ Membership in the Amalgamated Metal
Workers of America shall be open to all wage workers in the metal, machinery,
and allied industries regardless of creed, color, or sex.”
Agreements.—No provision.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None. The Metal Worker (discontinued).
Headquarters.—No. 81 East Tenth Street, New York City, N. Y.
Organization.—Districts: No. 1, New York and vicinity; No. 2, Connecticut;
No. 3, New Jersey; No. 10, Rhode Island.
Local unions: Connecticut, 1; New Jersey, 2; New York, 7; Rhode Island, Z
Total, 12.
Membership.—Not reported.




METALS AND MACHINERY

57

METAL WORKERS’ INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SHEET
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized January 25, .1888, in Toledo, Ohio, as the Tin, Sheet Iron and Cor­
nice Workers* International Association. In 1896 the name “Amalgamated
Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association” was adopted. This was
changed in 1903 to Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers’ International Alliance.
In 1907 the Coppersmiths’ International Union amalgamated with the sheetmetal organization, and the Chandelier, Brass and Metal Workers joined in
1924. The convention of 1924 changed the name of the union to the Sheet Metal
Workers’ International Association.
In 1922 a secession movement among western locals resulted in the formation
of “ The Pacific Coast Conference of Sheet Metal Workers.” This organization
reaffiliated with the parent body in 1925.
Object.—“ The objects of our association are, namely, to elevate our trade to
the highest standard to which it belongs, and by mutual effort to place our
organization upon a foundation sufficiently strong to prevent encroachment; to
establish an apprenticeship system to encourage a higher standard of skill by
the formation of schools of instruction in the local unions, for teaching pattern
cutting, and for trade education generally; to cultivate feelings of friendship
among the men of our craft; to settle all disputes between employers and
employees by arbitration; to assist each other in distress and to secure employ­
ment; to reduce the hours of labor and secure adequate pay for our work;
and by legal and proper means to elevate the moral, intellectual, and social
condition of all our members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association
claims jurisdiction over the manufacture, erection, and installation of all sheetmetal work of No. 10 gauge or lighter; this jurisdiction covering all metal
roofing, the manufacture, erection, and finishing of all sheet-metal cornice,
metal skylights, all hollow sheet-metal doors and trim, and metal baseboards,
all metal picture molding, all metal chair rail, all wire molding in connection
with interior and exterior finish; the manufacture, installation, and erection of
all metal frames and sash and the adjusting of same; all metal furniture, metal
lockers, metal shelving, and library stacks; all metal ceilings and sidings, both
interior and exterior; all corrugated iron on roofs and sidings; all metal
shingles; all metal tile, plain or covered with a foreign substance; the covering
with sheet metal of all doors, shutters, and partitions; all marquis of all
descriptions; the manufacture and erection of all spouting, gutters, flashing,
roof outlets made of copper, tin, iron, zinc, or lead; all metal ridge roll and
coping; the manufacture and installation of all sheet metal in connection with
store fronts and windows.
“ The manufacture and installation of all sheet-metal work in connection
with heating and ventilation, such as air ducts, air washers, fans, housing, and
air brushes, and all connections made of sheet metal both to and from same;
all furnace work, all wall stacks, local vent pipes, and sheet-metal air chambers;
the installation of all registers, register faces, doors, and louvers in connection
with same.
“ All sheet-metal elevator legs, chutes, carriers, pipes, cyclones, and dust col­
lectors in connection with mills or grain elevators; all blowpipe work in mills;
all sheet-metal connections to machines in planing mills, sawmills, and other
factories, whether it be used for ventilation, heating, or other purposes; the
manufacture and erection of all sheet-metal work in sugar refineries, breweries,
malt houses, and distilleries.
“ The manufacture and installation of all breeching, and smoke pipes for
boilers, hot-water heaters, and furnaces; all sheet-metal lagging and jackets on
boilers and engines, all drip pans, all exhaust pipes and heads, all safety
flues, and all safety appliances around engines and machinery. All sheetmetal fire escapes, package chutes, and conveyors; and sheet-metal switch and
cut-out boxes; all sheet-metal speaking tubes.
“All sheet-metal columns and casings, all floor domes, and all sheet-metal
work used in connection with concrete construction.
“ The manufacture and erection of all sheet-metal work in the building of
sheet-metal houses, consisting of floor beams, uprights, partitions, sidings, etc.,
and all sheet-metal garages.
“All sheet-metal work in connection with the outfitting of kitchens, such as
ranges, canopies, steam tables, dish washers, coffee urns, kitchen utensils.




58

HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONB

laundry dryers and washers, sinks, the covering of drain boards, lining of coil
boxes, ice boxes, and other sheet-metal work in connection with bar and sodafountain fixtures.
“All sheet-metal ice cans and sheet-metal work in connection with refrigerat­
ing plants.
“All sheet-metal decorations, metal spinning; the manufacture and erection
of sheet-metal signs and billboards, whether attached to structural or wood
frames; the manufacture and erection of all moving-picture booths, the lining
with sheet metal of all foot and side lights, and all sheet metal in connection
with the indirect lighting system in theaters, moving-picture houses, or other
places where this class of work is used.
“ Manufacture and installation of all sheet-metal work in connection with
the building of railroads and street cars. All sheet aluminum work. All
sheet-metal work in connection with the manufacture of automobiles and air­
planes. All sheet-metal assortment work, such as manufacturing household
ware* can making and miscellaneous articles made in factories. The soldering,
either hard or soft, done by flame or other methods, in connection with the
manufacture of badges, buttons, and metal novelties. The preparation and
tinning of castings of all descriptions and the sweating on of same by any
process.
“All copper work in connection with coppersmithing of any and all gauges.
The erection and dismantling of all work manufactured by coppersmiths, such
as pipe work, etc., or any work to be repaired, manufactured, or tested in any
way in connection with the coppersmithing industry.
“ The manufacture and erection of all sheet-metal work of 10 gauge and
lighter on all boats, such as smokestacks, sheet-metal lifeboats, life rafts, life
buoys, crow’s nests, sheet-metal bulkheads and ceilings, the lining and covering
of boats with sheet metal, either interior or exterior. The fabrication and
assembling on boats of all metal lockers, furniture, the manufacture and
installation of metal doors and trim, the installation of all telegraph ana
speaking tubes, the manufacture of switch and cut-out boxes; the installation
of lagging on all boilers and engines; the lining of all partitions, paint and
lamp lockers and galleys with metal; the manufacture and installation of all
ventilating work, kitchen equipment, etc.
“ The cutting, fabricating, and assembling of all sheet-metal work, whether
seamed, brazed, locked, soldered, riveted, bolted, and welded, by any process.
“ Railroad shopmen shall include tinners, coppersmiths, and pipe fitters em­
ployed in shop, yards, and buildings and on passenger coaches and engines of
all kinds, skilled in the building, erecting, assembling, installing, dismantling,
and maintaining parts made of sheet copper, brass, tin, zinc, white metal and
lead, black planished and pickled iron of .10 gauge or less, including brazing,
soldering, tinning, leading, and babbitting; the bending, fitting, cutting, thread­
ing, brazing, clamping, and testing, connecting, and disconnecting of air, water,
sand, gas, oil, and steam pipes, and the operation of babbitt fires and pipethreading machines, oxyacetylene thermit and electric welding on work gen­
erally recognized as belonging to railroad shopmen.” [Constitution.]
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president and 10 vice
presidents, “ shall decide all disputes between employers and employees when
appealed to by local unions ” and “ shall exercise general supervision over the
officers and affairs of the international alliance.”
2. District councils “ shall be formed in all cities or vicinities where two or
more local unions exist * * * and shall have jurisdiction over all local
unions within a radius of 50 miles or more, and shall formulate such rules
and regulations as may be necessary.”
3. Local unions: “ Each local union shall have power to frame its own local
by-laws, which shall in no way conflict with the constitution of the inter­
national alliance.”
Local unions must affiliate with “ State federations, central bodies, district
councils, and building trades departments of the American Federation of Labor
where such exist.”
4. Convention: Held triennially; elects general officers, enacts all legisla­
tion except that “ at any time the general executive board deems a new law
necessary to govern the international alliance ” between conventions, it may be
enacted by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person to be admitted to membership
in the union must be a sheet-metal worker, competent to command the mini­
mum wage at any of the branches covered by our jurisdiction claim.” He must




METALS AND MACHINERY

59

also be or signify his intention of becoming a citizen of the country in which
he makes application. Employers may hold membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ The Sheet Metal Workers* International Asso­
ciation favors the adoption of a sound system of apprenticeship which will
give the fullest opportunity to apprentices to learn the trade of sheet-metal
worker in the various branches of the industry in a thorough manner. We
favor and urge upon all local unions to adopt a uniform system governing
apprentices of a five-year period, to be served between the ages of 16 and 21
years.”
Recommended provision for local agreements: “ Provide for an apprentice­
ship system upon basis of one apprentice to every four journeymen, and one to
a fraction thereof.**
Agreements.—Negotiated by committees of the local union and the local em­
ployers, subject to the approval of the general executive board, which recom­
mends the use of a general form. Time rates of pay.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; funeral.
Official organ.—Sheet Metal Workers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 624 Transportation Building, Washington, D. O.
Organization.—Local unions organized by branches of the trade, classified
into jobbers, assortment workers, coppersmiths, stove and range workers,
automobile workers, railroad shopmen, stockyards, shipyards, and mixed.
District councils: California; New York; Chicago; Ontario; St. Louis; Mis­
souri and vicinity; Massachusetts; Iowa; Northwest (Pacific States) ; Ohio;
Rock Island, Moline, and Davenport; Illinois; New Jersey; Wisconsin; Texas;
Tri-State (Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia).
Railroad district councils: Baltimore & Ohio; Boston & Maine; Chesapeake
& Ohio; Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul; Chicago & Northwestern; Denver &
Rio Grande; Erie; Missouri Pacific; New York Central; North Western District
of Railway Employees; Rock Island; Seaboard Air Line; Southern; Western
Pacific.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 6; Arkansas, 2; California, 17;
Colorado, 5; Connecticut, 3; Delaware, 2; District of Columbia, 1; Florida,
9; Georgia, 5; Illinois, 37; Indiana, 23; Iowa, 20; Kansas, 7; Kentucky, 9;
Louisiana, 5; Maine, 2; Maryland, 7; Massachusetts, 16; Michigan, 7; Minne­
sota, 7; Mississippi, 1; Missouri, 7; Montana, 5; Nebraska, 1; New Hampshire,
2; New Jersey, 20; New York, 31; North Carolina, 5; Ohio, 30; Oklahoma, 8;
Oregon, 4; Pennsylvania, 29; Rhode Island, 1; South Carolina, 3; South
Dakota, 2; Tennessee, 8; Texas, 16; Utah, 1; Virginia, 7; Washington, 11;
West Virginia, 14; Wisconsin, 14; Wyoming, 1; Canal Zone, 1. Canada, 17.
Total, 429.
Membership.—25,000.

MOLDERS’ UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Philadelphia, Pa., July, 1859. In its earliest stages organiza­
tion among molders took the form of cooperative foundries. A beneficial
society of molders was formed in 1849 in New York City, which in 1854 in­
corporated under the name “ The Journeymen Iron Molders’ Society.” Many
local organizations of molders which placed the emphasis on* association for
economic rather than beneficial purposes sprang up and died out during the
fifties. Many of these were in communication and contact with each other,
and formed the nucleus of the National Union of Iron Molders, a trade
organization launched from Philadelphia in July, 1859, by 32 delegates repre­
senting 12 local unions.
Canadian unions were represented at the third convention of this organiza­
tion in 1861, and in 1863 the name of the body was changed to Iron Molders’
International Union, and jurisdiction was specifically extended to Canada.
This is the first instance of the extension of the territorial jurisdiction of a
labor organization from one country to another. A movement among Canadian
molders in 1884 toward secession and national organization failed for lack of
popular approval. The present name of the union was adopted in 1907.
In 1883 the machinery molders seceded and organized the Brotherhood of
Machinery Molders. This union was maintained separately until 1892, when
it returned to the parent body.
Brass molders, by secession from a Knights of Labor Assembly, formed the
International Brotherhood of Brass Molders in 1890, and in 1896 amalgamated




60

HANDBOOK OP AMEKICAN TRADE-TTNIONS

with the metal polishers to form the Metal Polishers, Buffers, Platers and
Brass Workers* Union of North America. Both this latter organization and
the International Molders’ Union were affiliated to the American Federation
of Labor, and the molders protested against the encroachment of the new
organization on their jurisdiction over brass. Disagreements and difficulties
lasted until 1911 when they terminated in the transfer of the brass workers to
the molders’ organization.
As at first organized, coremakers were not eligible to membership in the
International Molders* Union. They organized independently in 1896 as the
Core Makers* International Union, and were chartered by the American Fed­
eration of Labor. Two autonomous organizations in the same craft proved
incompatible, however, because of the interchangeability of the two occupa­
tions and chaotic conditions produced by independent action in the matter of
strikes. By agreement between the two organizations in 1903 the core makers
became part of the International Molders* Union.
Objects.—“ Believing that under the present social system there is a general
tendency to deny the producer the full reward of his industry and skill; and
that the welfare of the community depends upon the purchasing power of its
members; and that the only means of successfully resisting the power that the
centralization of capital has placed in the hands of the few is by organized
effort; therefore we, the molders of North America, in order to promote our
craft interests and enable us to maintain our rightful position as citizens, have
organized this International Molders* Union of North America.**
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Molding in all its branches and subdivisions.
Government.—1. The government and superintendence of subordinate unions
shall be vested in this union, as the supreme head of all unions under its
jurisdiction. It shall be the ultimate tribunal to which all matters of general
importance to the welfare of the several unions and any member thereof shall
be referred for adjustment, and its decisions thereon shall be final and con­
clusive. To it shall belong the power to determine the customs and usages
affecting all matters pertaining to the craft.
“All executive powers of the union when not in session shall be vested in
its executive board, which shall consist of the president and seven trustees.
* * * The judicial powers when not in session shall be vested in the
president and the executive board.
“All legislative powers shall be reserved to this union duly convened in
session (except by referendum) and shall extend to every case of legislation
not delegated or reserved to subordinate unions.**
2. Conference boards: Delegate bodies composed of local unions within a
given jurisdiction assigned by the executive board. Affiliation with conference
boards where formed compulsory on part of locals.
District councils: Delegate bodies composed of five or more locals in sections
where conference boards can not be maintained.
3. Local unions: Subordinate; may adopt their own by-laws and local rules,
subject to the approval of the executive board.
4. Convention: Held every third year, if ordered by referendum vote. Enacts
legislation, nominates and elects general officers. Constitutional amendments
by convention or referendum.
Qualifications 'for membership.—“Any molder who has served an apprentice­
ship of four years at the trade in any of its branches or subdivisions * * *
may be admitted to membership. * * * Any person competent to operate
any machine, squeezer, or other mechanical device used for the purpose of
molding castings in sand may be admitted to membership.** Woman core­
makers specifically excluded from membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“Any boy engaging himself to learn the trade
of molding shall be required to serve four years. He shall in no case leave
his employer without just cause, and any apprentice so leaving shall not be
permitted to work under the jurisdiction of any subordinate union, but shall
be required to return to his employer.
“ The following ratio of apprentices shall be allowed: One to each shop,
irrespective of the number of journeymen employed, and one to every five
members thereafter. No boy shall begin to learn the trade previous to arriving
at the age of 16.**
Agreements.—The stove, heater, and hot-water casting molders have an
annual agreement negotiated by representatives of the international union




METALS AND MACHINERY

61

and the Stove Founders' National Defense Association. In other branches
agreements are negotiated by local unions.
Benefits.—Strike, lockout, and victimization; sick, disability, and death (life
insurance established by 1923 convention).
Official organ.—International Molders' Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 530 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Organization.—Conference boards (19 ): New York City and vicinity; Buffalo
and vicinity; central New York; eastern Pennsylvania; eastern New England;
Connecticut Valley; Chicago and vicinity; central Ohio; St. Louis and vicinity;
Indiana; Michigan and vicinity; Pittsburgh and vicinity; Ontario; Miami
Valley; Cleveland and vicinity; Boston and vicinity; Detroit and vicinity;
northern California; Illinois and Iowa district council.
Local unions classified into machinery and jobbing, stove plate; bench,
heater work, brass molding, agriculture, hollow ware, radiator molding, machine
operator, and core-maker branches: United States—Alabama, 4; Arizona, 1;
California, 4; Colorado, 3; Connecticut, 10; District of Columbia, 1; Florida,
2; Georgia, 5; Illinois, 29; Indiana, 22; Iowa, 9; Kansas, 6; Kentucky, 2;
Louisiana, 1; Maine, 4; Maryland, 4; Massachusetts, 28; Michigan, 15;
Minnesota, 4; Missouri, 8; Montana, 3; Nebraska, 2; New Hampshire, 6;
New Jersey, 12; New York, 39; North Carolina, 6; Ohio, 48; Oklahoma, 2;
Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 48; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina, 2; Tennessee,
6; Texas, 3; Utah, 1; Vermont, 2; Virginia, 5; Washington, 6; West Virginia,
4? Wisconsin, 12; Hawaii, 1; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—Alberta, 1; British
Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 1; New Brunswick, 3; Nova Scotia, 4 ; Ontario, 25;
Quebec, 2. Total, 412.
Membership.—30,000.

PATTERN MAKERS* LEAGUE OF AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized May 18, 1887, in Philadelphia, Pa.
Objects.—“ The objects of this league shall be to elevate the condition and
maintain and protect the interests of the craft in general; to establish and
uphold a fair, equitable rate of wages, regulate the hours of labor, and all
trade matters appertaining to the welfare of its members; to create and
maintain a more uniform condition as to hours and wages throughout the
jurisdiction of the league, thereby protecting the employer and the employee
from unjust competition; to influence the apprenticeship system in a direction
of intelligence, competency, and skill in the interest of employer and em­
ployed; to ghdeavor to avoid all conflicts and their attendant bitterness and
pecuniary loss by means of arbitration and conciliation in the settlement of
all disputes concerning wages and conditions of employment; to provide sick,
total-disability, and death benefits; also tool benefits for loss of tools by fire
or flood.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Pattern making in wood, metal, and plaster.
Government.—1. The general executive board, composed of president and
five other elected members, “ shall have general supervision of the league.”
2. Local unions—“ Associations” : Subordinate; constitution and rules dic­
tated by league.
3. Convention: Held every fourth year; legislates for body and elects
general officers. Constitutional amendments by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any competent pattern maker of good char­
acter is eligible to membership. All apprentices who have been such for one
year shall, after examination by the executive committee, be eligible to
membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ This league recognizes five years as the length
of time an apprentice should serve at the trade, and we shall use our influence
to establish this as a universal rule.
“ The following ratio of apprentices shall be allowed: One to each shop,
irrespective of the number of journeymen employed; and one to every eight
journeymen employed thereafter, such regulation to be governed by the average
number of journeymen employed in the shop.
“ No boy shall begin to learn the trade previous to arriving at the age of
16 years.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Each association must insist on all apprentices serving the recognized time
of apprenticeship and on a strict compliance with the terms of any indentures
existing between apprentices and employers.”
Agreements.—Wage rates established by local unions. Hourly rates, with
prohibition of bonus, premiums, or piecework rates.
Benefits.—Strike, lockout, and victimization; sick, death, and disability;
tool insurance.
Official organ.—Pattern Makers* Monthly Journal.
Headquarters.—Second National Bank Building, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Organization.—Local associations may have branches within their terri­
torial jurisdiction. Frequently this jurisdiction includes neighboring towns
and cities in different States.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 1 (1 branch); California, 2 (1
branch); Colorado, 1 (1 branch) ; Connecticut, 2 (4 branches); District of
Columbia, 1; Georgia, 2; Illinois, 1 (4 branches); Indiana, 2 (3 branches);
Kentucky (1 branch of Indianapolis); Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 3 (6
branches); Michigan, 2 (9 branches) ; Minnesota, 1; Missouri, 1 (1 branch);
Montana, 1; New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey (5 branches of New York City) ;
New York, 6 (6 branches); Ohio, 4 (11 branches) ; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania,
8 (8 branches); Rhode Island, 1; South Carolina, 1; Tennessee, 2; Texas, 2;
Utah, 1; Virginia, 3; Washington, 1; West Virginia (1 branch of Pittsburgh);
Wisconsin, 1 (5 branches) ; Hawaii, 1; Canal Zone (branch of New York City).
Canada, 6 (7 branches). Total, 60 locals, 75 branches.
Membership.—8,985.

POLISHERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION, METAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Syracuse, N. Y., on July 2, 1896. Metal polishers and brass
workers were fairly well organized under the Knights of Labor, and in Octo­
ber, 1888, they formed National Trades Assembly No. 252, Knights of Labor, with
jurisdiction over all branches of the brass industry. At the convention of the
National Trades Assembly held in New Haven, Conn., in 1890, 80 local organiza­
tions were represented. A movement toward trade autonomy and identification
with the American Federation of Labor movement split the convention. All
the representatives from cities from Pennsylvania westward withdrew and
organized the International Brotherhood of Brass Workers. This organization
joined the American Federation of Labor. The unions on the seaboard and
the Canadian locals remained with the Knights of Labor. Both organizations
functioned successfully for several years.
In the meantime the metal polishers, buffers, and electroplaters in several
western cities, members of the International Brotherhood of Brass Workers,
determined to subdivide into closer craft unions, and meeting in Toledo, Ohio,
in 1892, they organized the Metal Polishers, Buffers and Platers* International
Union of North America, thus forming a third international union in the
industry.
In 1895 the Knights of Labor Trades Assembly No. 252 amalgamated with
the International Brotherhood of Brass Workers, and the combined organiza­
tion was chartered by the American Federation of Labor as the United Brother­
hood of Brass and Composition Metal Workers, Polishers, and Buffers.
The following year this organization and the Metal Polishers, Buffers, and
Platers* International Union, meeting in Syracuse, N. Y., on July 2, merged
and became the Metal Polishers, Buffers, Platers, and Brass Workers Inter­
national Union of North America, and were chartered as such by the American
Federation of Labor.
With the inclusion of brass molders in the jurisdiction, those workers de­
manded and received recognition in the title of the organization. Their example
was followed by the silver workers, so that, by 1902, the name of the organi­
zation was Metal Polishers, Buffers, Platers, Brass Molders, Brass and Silver
Workers’ Union of North America.
Through jurisdictional readjustments, however, brass molders were trans­
ferred to the International Molders’ Union in 1907, and brass workers operating
lathes went into the International Association of Machinists not long afterward.
In 1917 the organization decided to limit its field to metal polishing, buffing,
and electroplating. Silver workers were turned over to the Jewelry Workers’
Union and by a new American Federation of Labor charter issued in 1917 the
organization became the Metal Polishers’ International Union.




Me t a l s

and

m a c h in e r y

63

It has since absorbed a considerable portion of the membership of the Pocket
Knife Blade Grinders and Finishers’ National Union which disbanded in 1917.
Objects.—“ Believing it to be the natural right of those who toil to enjoy to
the fullest possible extent the wealth created by their labor, our membership
is requested to study the economic questions of the day, particularly those
relating to the class struggle now going on. Therefore we, the Metal Polishers’
Union, pledge ourselves to labor unitedly in behalf of the following principles:
1. Reduction in hours of the workday. 2. Increase of wages. 3. Municipal
ownership of all public utilities. 4. Government ownership of all national
monopolies. 5. Abolition of government by injunction in controversies between
capital and labor.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Metal polishing, buffing, and plating.
Government.—1. “ The government of all local unions and members shall be
vested in this general union as the supreme head to which all matters of general
importance shall be referred.”
Executive board, composed of president, five international vice presidents,
and general secretary, “ shall have general supervision of the business of the
international union, its officers and local unions.”
2. Local unions: Wholly subordinate; constitutions fixed by international.
3. Initiative and referendum: General officers nominated and elected by refer­
endum. Convention on call only. Officers subject to recall.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person not a foreman (with power to
hire and discharge), superintendent or manager, working at “ any of the
crafts,” is eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“All persons desiring to become apprentices to
any branch or branches of our trade shall serve an apprenticeship of three years
before being granted a journeyman’s card.
“ Wages shall be adjusted by the local union in which jurisdiction the ap­
prentice is employed.
“ No apprentice shall be allowed to work in any shop under our jurisdiction
unless at least one journeyman is permanently employed.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions with individual employers, upon
terms suggested by the general organization. Duration of contract, one year,
long-term contracts being contrary to the policy of the general office. Agree­
ments cover hours, fair day’s work, day rates and piece rates.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—Our Journal of the Metal Polishers’ International Union.
Headquarters.—Neave Building, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—California, 2; Connecticut,
8; District of Columbia, 1; Illinios, 9; Indiana, 9; Iowa, 2; Kentucky, 1; Massa­
chusetts, 9; Michigan, 5; Maryland, 1; Missouri, 4; Nebraska, 1; New Jersey, 3;
New York, 15; Ohio, 9; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 6; Tennessee, 2 ; Washington,
1; Wisconsin, 3. Canada—New Brunswick, 1; Ontario, 5. Total, 98.
Membership.—9,000.

STOVE MOUNTERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Quincy, 111., on December 29, 1892, as the International Stove
Mounters’ Union. Various changes in the name of the organization were
made from time to time to include the steel range workers, but these titles
were dropped and the union is now known and chartered as the Stove Mounters’
International Union of North America.
Objects.—“ Believing that the welfare of a community depends upon the
purchasing power of its members, and in order to promote our craft interests
and to enable us to have a voice in determining the hours, wages, and conditions
under which we work and live, and that we may maintain our rightful position
as citizens, we have organized this union.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The following crafts and their branches: Stove mount­
ers, steel and malleable range mounters, furnace mounters, gas-range mounters,
drillers, steel, gas, and electric range riveters, machine and bench hands, whitemetal workers and repair men, cutters, punchers, and breakers, pattern fitters,
pattern filers, manifold fitters and testers, gaters and welders.”




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TBADE-UNI0N8

Government.—1. “ The government and superintendence of subordinate unions
shall be vested in the hands of the executive board of the international union.
It shall be the tribunal to which all matters of general importance to the wel­
fare of the several unions or any member thereof shall be referred for
adjustment.
“ The executive and judical powers of the union when not in session shall
be vested in the executive board,” which is composed of president, four vice
presidents, and secretary-treasurer.
“All legislative powers shall be vested in the entire membership, by initiative
and referendum or in convention duly assembled.”
2. Local unions: Autonomy limited.
3. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any competent workman who has served an
apprenticeship of three years is eligible to journeyman membership. Appren­
tice membership after three months at the trade.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ No local, where apprentices are employed,
shall allow more than one apprentice to every 15 journeymen or majority frac­
tion thereof.
“Apprentices shall be confined to regular apprentice work only after the
first six months of their apprenticeship; they shall serve three years at the
trade before being eligible to membership in this organization.”
Agreement.—Negotiated by membership o f local union and individual em­
ployer, on terms proposed by the international executive board. If agreement
is not reached, disputed matters are taken up by officers of the international,
with the employer or with the officials of manufacturers’ association to which
the employer may belong.
Agreements cover hours, piece prices, sanitation and general working condi­
tions, adjustment of grievances with provision against stoppage of work by
either party pending adjustment. One year duration.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death.
Official organ.—Stove Mounters and Range Workers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 6466 Jefferson Avenue East, Detroit, Mich.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—California, 2; Georgia, 2;
Illinois, 6; Indiana, 3; Kentucky, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 2; Missouri,
5; New Jersey, 3; New York, 5; Ohio, 10; Pennsylvania, 7; Tennessee, 2.
Canada—Ontario, 1. Total, 50.
Membership.—Not reported. American Federation of Labor voting strength,
1,600.




TRANSPORTATION
Land:
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor—
Railway Employees Department, A. F. of L___________________________
Carmen of America, Brotherhood of Railway_______________________
Conductors, Order of Sleeping Car--------------------------------------------------Maintenance of Way Employees, Brotherhood of_______________________
Signalmen of America, Brotherhood of Railroad______________________
Street and Electric Railway Employees of America, Amalgamated Asso­
ciation of---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Switchmen’s Union of North America--------------------------------------------------Teamsters* Chauffeurs, Stablemen, and Helpers of America, Interna_ tional Brotherhood of— ----------------------------------------------------------------Telegraphers* Order of Railroad_______________________________________
Tunnel and Subway Constructors’ International Union of North America—
Railroad shop crafts (classified under Building Trades and Metals and

Pace
8
6(»
69
76
80
81
83
83
84
89

Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers, and Helpers__________________________ ___ 44
Boilermakers ana Iron Shipbuilders_______________________________ ___ 47
Electrical Workers----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
Firemen and Oilers---------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- 49
Metal. Workers, Sheet------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- 57
Machinists------------------------ --------------------------------------------------------- ----- 52
Independent organizations—
Agents, American Railway-------------------------------------------------------------------------65
Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employees, Brotherhood
of Railway and Steamship-------------------------------------------------------------- ------67
Conductors, Brotherhood of Dining Car----------------------------------------------------- 68
Conductors of America, Order of Railway-------------------------------------------- ------70
Engineers, Grand International Brotherhood of Locomotive____________ ___ 72
Firemen and Enginemen, Brotherhood of Locomotive__________________ ___ 74
Expressmen, Order of Railway-----------------------;-------------------------------------- ------73
Express Workers, American Federation of------------------------------------------------ 74
Porters, Brakemen, and Switchmen. Association of Train_______________ ___ 77
Porters, Brotherhood of Sleeping Car--------------------------------------------------- ------78
Railroad Supervisors of Mechanics, International Association of_________ ___ 78
Railroad Workers, American Federation of-------------------------------------------- ----- 79
Station Employees and Clerks, Brotherhood of Railroad_______________ ___ 81
Track Foremen and Allied Brotherhood of Railway Track Laborers, Ameri­
can Brotherhood of Railway--------------------------------------------------------------------85
Train Dispatchers’ Association, American---------------------------------------------- ------86
Trainmen, Brotherhood of Locomotive-------------------------------------------------- ------87
Trainmen, Association of Colored Railway------------------------------------------- ------88
Yardmasters of America, Railroad------------------------------------------------------- ------89
Yardmasters of North America, Railroad---------------------------------------------------90
Water:
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor—
Longshoremen’s Association, International-------------------------------------------- ------92
Masters, Mates, and Pilots of America, National Organization-------------- ------93
Seamen’s Union of America, International-------------------------------------------- ------95
Independent organizations—
Engineers’ Beneficial Association of the United States of America, Na­
tional Marine--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------91
Engineers,- Ocean Association of Marine------------------------------------------------ ----- 92
Neptune Association---------------------------------------------------------------------------------94

AGENTS, AMERICAN RAILWAY
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Minneapolis in May, 1920. Originally this association was the
Order o f Railroad Station Agents, organized in 1908. Internal dissension split
the organization in 1920, and the Order of Railroad Station Agents has since
passed out of existence. The American Railway Agents Association has a
small organization on the Big Four, the Baltimore & Ohio, the Pennsylvania,
and the Cincinnati, Indianapolis & Western. The organization on the Cincin­
nati, Indianapolis & Western is the only one having an agreement with the
railroad management.
The association publishes the Railway Agent; its headquarters are No. 120
South Alabama Street, Indianapolis, Ind.; and it has a membership of
about 200.




65

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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TBADE-UNIONS

CARMEN OF AMERICA, BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Pueblo, Colo., in August, 1891, as the result of a consolidation
of various other organizations in the same field, among them the Brotherhood
of Railway Car Repairers, which had been in existence since 1888, the Car­
men’s Mutual Aid Association, and the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen,
organized in Toronto, Canada, in 1890. The organization functioned inde­
pendently until 1909, when it affiliated with the American Federation of Labor.
Following its affiliation with the federation, it became involved in many juris­
dictional difficulties with the craft unions, which claimed many of the occu­
pations in car building, such as the carpenters, painters, sheet-metal workers,
etc. Adjustment has in most cases been reached by agreement with the various
craft organizations, however, and the brotherhood continues to function essen­
tially as an industrial union.
Objects.—“ We declare the intent and purpose of this brotherhood is to ad­
vance the moral, material, and industrial well-being of its members. First, to
bring within the fold of our brotherhood every carman eligible to join our
ranks. Second, to secure for our members a just remuneration in exchange
for their labor. Third, to shorten the hours of labor as economic development
and progress will warrant. Eight hours per day is the workday desired, and
44 hours per week, in order that our members may have more opportunities
for intellectual development, social enjoyment, and industrial education.
Fourth, to combat wherever it exists piecework, the bonus system, and all
other degrading systems of labor, and to endeavor to establish through joint
conferences of employers and employees such rates and working conditions as
befit the ideal of honorable labor. Fifth, to federate with all other railway
labor organizations for the common good and protection of all. Sixth, to
cooperate with all trade, labor, and farmer organizations to secure the passage
of such laws as are beneficial to the working class. Seventh, to encourage and
stimulate our members to take a lively interest in the civil affairs of their
country in order that they can, as a class, vote intelligently and effectively for
the interests of the working class. Eighth, to encourage the establishment of
sick, accident, death benefits, and old-age pensions in all lodges where it is
possible.”
' Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—Car building, covering specifically: “ Railroad, electric,
or motor car builders or repairers on any class of cars, wood or steel; car
inspectors, car oilers, coach, gas, and steam pipe work, steel cabs, steel pilots,
pilot beams and steel running boards, millwrights, drill-press men, air-brake
and triple valve work; cabinet work, upholsterers, pattern makers in car
department; planing-mill work, bench, coach, locomotive and all other car­
penters in car departments; tender and tank work; locomotive, coach, and car
painting and all finishing work pertaining thereto; tinners; all axle lathes,
wheel borers, wheel press, bolt cutters and threaders, nut tappers, pipe fitters
employed in car department; material handlers; boiler lagger and axle light
work on wood or steel cars; foremen and assistants; wrecking engineers and
crews; punch and shear operators in car department, and employees assigned
to handle acetylene, thermite, or electric process on work that was generally
recognized as carmen’s work prior to the introduction of such process; coach
cleaners and all helpers employed in any of these classifications.”
Government.—1. General officers: President, assistant president, 12 vice presi­
dents, secretary-treasurer, editor, and general executive board of 5 elected
members.
The general president “ shall perform the executive duties of the brother­
hood, with power to settle all differences and grievances.” His powers are
comprehensive. The general executive board is a trial and audit board.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution fixed by grand lodge, but with
“ power of making rules and regulations for their own welfare, provided
always that such rules and regulations are in accordance with the con­
stitution.”
3. Convention: Held triennially: enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by initiative or convention and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any white person between the ages of 16 and
65 years,” employed in any capacity covered by the jurisdiction, “ who believes
in the existence of a Supreme Being, who is free from hereditary or contracted




TRANSPORTATION

67

diseases, of good moral character and habits/’ is eligible to membership; “ pro­
vided, that any person making application for membership who is not a citizen
of the United States or Canada must present first naturalization papers or
make affidavit” that such papers have been applied for. Male and female
membership.
Carmen over 65 years of age may become honorary (nonbeneficiary) members.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“An apprentice is a person who while between
the ages of 16 and 21 years is engaged to an employer to serve an apprentice­
ship learning the carmen’s trade. Any person engaging himself to learn the
carmen’s trade shall serve an apprenticeship of 4 years of 290 days each.
“ The ratio of apprentices shall be one apprentice for every five journey­
men carmen employed. * * * Apprentices upon completion of their appren­
ticeship shall receive not less than the minimum rate of pay for carmen.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by railroad systems federations, composed of joint
protective boards representing the various locals on a system. Indefinite dura­
tion, with 30-day notice clause.
Benefits.—Strike; death and total disability; injury and sick (by locals).
Official organ.—Railway Carmen’s Journal.
Headquarters.—Hall Building, Kansas City, Mo.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 6; Arkansas, 6;
California, 6; Colorado, 5; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 2;
Georgia, 10; Idaho, 4; Illinois, 59; Indiana, 32; Iowa, 27; Kansas, 7; Kentucky,
10; Louisiana, 9; Maine, 1; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts, 3; Michigan, 20; Min­
nesota, 16; Mississippi, 4; Missouri, 19; Montana, 6; Nebraska, 7; Nevada, 1;
New Hampshire, 2 ; New Jersey, 7; New York, 30; North Carolina, 6; North
Dakota, 1; Ohio, 49; Oklahoma, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 32; South Caro­
lina, 8; South Dakota, 5; Tennessee, 11; Texas, 8; Utah, 1; Vermont, 1;
Virginia, 16; Washington, 6; West Virginia, 20; Wisconsin, 30; Wyoming, 2;
Canal Zone, 1. Canada—Alberta, 13; British Columbia, 12; Manitoba, 7; New
Brunswick, 5; Nova Scotia, 5; Ontario, 44; Quebec, 17; Saskatchewan, 11.
Total, 621.
Membership.—56,000.

CLERKS, FREIGHT HANDLERS, EXPRESS AND STATION EMPLOY­
EES, BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY AND STEAMSHIP
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Sedalia, Mo., in 1898, as the order of Railway Clerks of America.
The order affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, but dropped out
within a few years. After a reorganization the name was changed to Brother­
hood of Railway Clerks. This organization functioned independently until
1909, when it was chartered by the American Federation of Labor. Following
a substantial and steady growth as an organization of clerks, the scope was
widened to include various other branches of railroad work, the extent of juris­
diction being reflected in the name adopted in 1919, Brotherhood of Railway
and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employees.
This extended jurisdiction was not sanctioned by the American Federation
of Labor and was contested by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters,
who claimed jurisdiction over the express wagon drivers. The American
Federation of Labor sustained the contention of the teamsters and ordered
the release of all members of the clerks’ brotherhood who were employed as
drivers in the railway express service. The Brotherhood of Railway Clerks
refused to comply with the order and their charter of affiliation to the American
Federation of Labor was revoked in January, 1926.
Objects.—“ For the purpose of promoting unity of action, for our mutual pro­
tection and to promote the general welfare of our crafts.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Clerks and other employees in railway offices; freight
handlers, ticket sellers, baggagemen or other station employees; train and
engine crew dispatchers and callers; storehouse or storeroom employees; and
express employees in the service of railroad, steamship, express, or other trans­
portation companies (except employees at ocean and Great Lake ports handling
freight between marine warehouses and deep water vessels and between rail­
road cars and deep water vessels; i. e. longshore work).
Government.—1. “ The grand lodge * ♦ * is the legislative and judicial
head of the brotherhood and is vested with full power and authority to enforce
upon its membership a strict adherence to its laws and regulations.”




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Grand lodge officers are: President, secretary-treasurer, senior vice president,
and six other vice presidents, national legislative counselor, editor, and an
executive board of five members.
“ The grand president shall exercise general supervision over all the affairs
of the brotherhood.”
“ The grand executive board shall have jurisdiction over the affairs of brother­
hood during the recess of the grand lodge and its decisions shall stand until
reversed by the grand lodge convention.”
2. Local unions: “ There shall be one form of constitution for the govern*
ment of all local lodges (emanating from grand lodge), which shall be con­
sidered the law by which each lodge shall be governed, provided that lodges
may, with the approval of the grand president, adopt such laws for their
local government as may be necessary.”
3. Convention: Held triennially; legislates for organization and elects grand
lodge officers.
4. Initiative, referendum, and recall. Constitutional amendments either by
convention or by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“All white persons, male or female, of good
moral character who have had actual experience” within the field covered by
the jurisdiction, “ and who at the time of making application are in the employ ”
of railroad, steamship, express, or other transportation companies, are eligible
to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by general wage committee composed of representa­
tives of locals of each road. Contracts are of indefinite duration with 30-day
renewal clause.
Benefits.—Strike and death.
Official organ.—The Railway Clerk.
Headquarters.—Brotherhood of Railway Clerks Building, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Organization.—Locals only: United States—Alabama, 14; Arizona, 4; Arkan­
sas, 18; California, 39; Colorado, 20; Connecticut, 12; Delaware, 1; District
of Columbia, 4; Florida, 11; Georgia, 19; Idaho, 7; Illinois, 123; Indiana, 47;
Iowa, 41; Kansas, 31; Kentucky, 24; Louisiana, 19; Maine, 6; Maryland, 8;
Massachusetts, 59; Michigan, 51; Minnesota, 39; Mississippi, 19; Missouri, 56;
Montana, 19; Nebraska, 20; Nevada, 4; New Hampshire, 5; New Jersey, 12;
New Mexico, 9; New York, 80; North Carolina, 25; North Dakota, 11; Ohio,
86; Oklahoma, 24; Oregon, 9; Pennsylvania, 54; Rhode Island, 3; South Caro­
lina, 15; South Dakota, 9; Tennessee, 19; Texas, 62; Utah, 7; Vermont, 8;
Virginia, 18; Washington, 27; West Virginia, 14; Wisconsin, 38; Wyoming, 5.
Canada—Alberta, 4; British Columbia, 6; Manitoba, 5; New Brunswick, 6 ;
Nova Scotia, 1; Ontario, 15; Quebec, 8; Saskatchewan, 6. Total, 1,306.
Membership.—135,000.

CONDUCTORS, BROTHERHOOD OF DINING CAR
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized and incorporated in New York City in December, 1918.
Objects.— “ It shall be the object of this brotherhood to promote the general
welfare of its members; advance their interests—social, moral and intellectual;
to protect their families and themselves by the exercise of such benevolences
as are established by the grand division. It shall be the aim of the brother­
hood to maintain harmonious relations with those whose interests they serve
and to act as a representative body to adjust such differences as may from
time to time arise between employer and employee to the end that mutual
confidence would function to raise the standard of dining-car service.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Dining-car conductors, assistant dining-car conductors,
dining-car stewards, assistant dining-car stewards, railroad restaurant stewards
or managers, railway ferry steamer stewards or managers.
Government.—1. General officers are: President, 2 national vice presidents,
and 4 regional vice presidents, general secretary-treasurer, and an executive
board of 12 elected members in addition to the president and secretarytreasurer.
“ The executive power of the brotherhood shall be vested in the president.”
“ The judicial power of the brotherhood shall be vested in the executive
board.”
Regional vice presidents are an adjustment board.




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69

2. Local divisions: Organized and allocated by grand division, subordinate
to and governed by its constitution and rules.
3. Convention: Held triennially; elects general officers. “All legislative
powers are vested in the grand division ” in regular session assembled. Con­
stitutional amendment by convention only.
Qualifications for membership.—“An applicant for membership must be of the
Caucasian race and have had at least three consecutive months’ experience in
the capacity ” covered by jurisdiction.
Agreements.—Negotiated by committees on individual roads with railroad
management, subject to approval by the brotherhood.
Benefits.—Life insurance (through an insurance company).
Official organ.—News Bulletin.
Headquarters.—No. 101 West Forty-second Street, New York City, N. Y.
Organization.—Local divisions only: California, 1; Colorado, 1; District of
Columbia, 1; Illinois, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Minnesota, 1; Nebraska, 1; New
York, 1. Total, 8.
Membership.—700.

CONDUCTORS, ORDER OP SLEEPING CAR
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Kansas City, Mo., February 20, 1918, as the Order of Sleeping
Car Employees. At the first triennial convention, held in 1919, the name was
changed to Order of Sleeping Car Conductors.
Objects.—“ That they may serve one another in peaceful and harmonious
relations through the constant efforts of this organization. To advance the
interests, social, moral, and intellectual, of its members, and to establish mu­
tual confidence through a policy of general understanding. Such is the aim
and purpose of this order.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico ( “ wherever the
Pullman Co* operates” ).
Trade jurisdiction.—Sleeping and parlor car conductors.
Government.—1. General officers: President, vice president, general* secretarytreasurer, and an executive board of five elected members.
“ The president is the official head of the order,” with comprehensive execu­
tive and administrative powers.
The general executive board members have departmental assignments (for­
eign relations; constitution and rules; statistics and insurance; publicity and
service; finance), and “ act as advisory counsel to the president.” It is also a
trial and audit board.
2. Local divisions: Subordinate; constitution and by-laws dictated by gen­
eral division. Dues paid to headquarters office and rebated to local by general
secretary-treasurer (75 per cent to headquarters office, 25 per cent to local
treasury).
3. Convention: Held triennially; elects general officers. Constitutional
amendments by convention vote only.
Qualifications for membership.—“Applicant for membership must be a white
male, sober and industrious, and must join of his own free will. He must be
sound in body and mind. He must be actually employed as a sleeping or
parlor car conductor and have served at least 10 days as such prior to and at
the time he makes application.”
Agreements.—The executive officers of the order confer with representatives
of the Pullman Co. to establish rules governing working conditions, based on
demands formulated by the membership. Agreement deals with hours, over­
time, hours off duty, seniority, grievances, etc. Wages not covered. No time
limit to agreement; 30-day notice required of both sides to change rules. Com­
pany confers with “ representatives of its conductors,” not with order.
Benefits.—Insurance (compulsory contributory membership).
Official organ.—The Sleeping Car Conductor.
Headquarters.—Union Station, Kansas City, Mo.
Organization.—Local divisions only: United States—Alabama, 1; California,
2; Colorado, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 1; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 1;
Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 1; Minnesota, 2; Mis­
souri, 2; Nebraska, 1; New York, 3; North Carolina, 2; Ohio, 3; Oregon, 1;
Pennsylvania, 2; Texas, 3; Tennessee, 2 ; Utah, 1; Virginia, 2 ; Washington, 1.
Canada, 1. Mexico, 1. Total, 39*
Membership.—2,300.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

CONDUCTORS OF AMERICA, ORDER OF RAILWAY
Not affiliated to the American Federation* of Labor.
Organized at Mendota, 111., on July 6, 1868. Organization of railroad con­
ductors began early in 1868 when a group of conductors on the Illinois Central
formed the Conductors’ Union at Amboy, 111. Shortly thereafter a group of
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy men met at Galesburg and organized Galesburg
Division No. 2 of the Conductors’ Union. In July of the same year these two
groups met jointly at Mendota, 111., and established an organization “ to be
known as the Conductors’ Union,” which should proceed with the organization
of railroad conductors over the entire country. This group held another meet­
ing at Columbus, Ohio, on December 15, 1868, reorganized, elected a “ grand
division ” and adopted a constitution and by-laws.
At the first annual convention held in 1869 the name “ Conductors’ Brother­
hood” was adopted. This was changed to Order of Railway Conductors of
America in 1878.
Originally this organization was not a labor union. It was a fraternal
benefit and temperance society which definitely opposed economic action. From
1877 to 1890 participation in strikes was punished by expulsion from the order.
Out of that attitude on the part of the conductors grew the charge of the
other railroad organizations that the conductors were strike breakers, active
opposition on the part of the labor unions to the conductors and efforts to
disrupt their organization, and the establishment, in 1885, of the Brotherhood of
Railway Conductors, based on a labor-union philosophy and program.
Pressure from without and disaffection within produced a radical change
in policy by 1890, when the old leaders were displaced and a more aggresive
program of trade regulation was adopted. The cooperation of the other rail­
road unions was secured, insurgency was checked, and the dual organization
was absorbed.
Fraternal and beneficial features are still strong but the paramount doctrine
and activity of the Order of Railway Conductors at present is the regulation
of working conditions and the adjustment of difficulties througlftrade agree­
ments.
The order was incorporated under the laws of Iowa in 1887, and Cedar Rapids
became its permanent headquarters. Publication of the official organ of the
order, The Railway Conductor, began in 1884.
Objects.—“ The particular business and objects for which this association is
formed are as follows: To unite its members; to combine their interests as
railway conductors; to elevate their standing as such and their character as
men, for their mutual improvement and advantage, socially and otherwise; to
secure to members the proper support, cooperation and assistance of each other;
* * * and to organize subordinate divisions, bodies or associations under
the jurisdiction ajid control of, and in subordination to this association;
* * * to furnish material aid and benefit, from a fund obtained upon the
assessment plan, to disabled members ♦ * * and their widows, children,
and heirs.” (From the articles of incorporation, 1887.)
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railway conductors. “ The term ‘ conductor’ applies
to a person who is in charge of a complete train of any kind whatsoever and
who supervises the movements of a complete train without regard to the terri­
tory in which it operates. Also to those who act as assistants in the perform­
ance of conductors’ duties of honoring or lifting transportation or acceptance
and execution of train orders.”
Government.—1. “ The grand division shall have exclusive jurisdiction over
all divisions, * * * and to its constitution, statutes, edicts, and resolutions
all divisions and members of the order shall render true obedience.”
“ The powers of the grand division are legislative, judicial, and executive.”
“ The president is the official head of the order,” with comprehensive powers.
The board of trustees, composed of three elected members, is a trial and
audit board.
The board of directors, composed of the president, eight vice presidents,
secretary and treasurer, trustees, and members of the insurance committee, is
an appeal board.
Committee on jurisdiction, composed of the president, the senior vice presi­
dent, the general secretary and treasurer, association chairmen and a member
who shall be a citizen of Canada appointed by the president, is a wage com­
mittee.




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71

General legislative committee. In the United States, composed of the board
of directors. In Canada, composed of the Canadian vice president, the
Canadian legislative representative and another member appointed by the
president.
2. Divisions: Subordinate; governed by constitution, laws, and regulations of
grand division, except that they “ shall have power to enact such by-laws for
their government as they may deem necessary,” subject to the approval of the
president.
Divisions must maintain legislative committees, which combine into a legis­
lative committee for the State or Province.
Divisions must maintain adjustment committees, which combine into general
adjustment committees for wage negotiations.
3. Conventions: Held triennially; enact legislation and elect general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention, but under certain conditions must be
ratified by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any white man shall be eligible to member­
ship under the following conditions:
“A. Who has qualified as a road train conductor on a surface railway,
where steam and electricity are intermingled, or where steam or electricity
is the motive power, and the operation of which is governed by time-tables,
rules or other requirements which necessarily constitute a requisite qualifica­
tion of a bona fide railway conductor, and who at the time of making applica­
tion has his name on road train conductors* rosters and holds road rights, and
has had at least one year’s experience in road or yard service and is in
road or yard service at the time of making application.
“ B. Who acts as assistant in the performance of conductor’s duties in
honoring or lifting transportation or acceptance and execution of train orders.
“ C. Who at any time has been actually employed as road train conductor,
and has had his name on road train conductors’ roster, and who is at the time
of making application employed in road or yard service.
“ D. Who is actually assigned as conductor of a regularly established trans­
fer service, doing only transfer work.”
“ The use of alcoholic liquors as a beverage shall be sufficient cause for
rejecting any petition for membership.”
Agreements.—“ On each system of railway where there are divisions of the
order there shall be a general committee of adjustment. ♦ * * On systems
of railway under management of more than one general manager where sep­
arate general committees are formed, the several chairmen will constitute a
system advisory board.”
General committees in turn form associations, one association for each of
the following districts:
“ District No. 1 shall be composed of all territory lying west of, and including,
the southern lines of the Illinois Central Bailway, and lying on the west side
of Lake Michigan and south of Lake Superior, and west of a line laid through
Duluth and Fort William, and shall be bounded on the south by the Mexican
border.
“ District No. 2 shall be composed of the territory east of the aforementioned
line and north of the lines of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway.
“ District No. 3 shall comprise the territory south of and including the
Chesapeake & Ohio Railway and as far west as the Illinois Central line men­
tioned as the boundary of district No. 1.
“ District No. 4 shall comprise all the territory in the Republic of Mexico.”
These associations are established “ for the purpose of carrying on concerted
movements relating to wages, hours of service and other important general
working conditions of conductors.”
Benefits.—Strike ( “ striking members and other striking conductors” ) ; life
insurance and total disability insurance (compulsory membership); accident
insurance (voluntary membership); indemnity (contributory retirement pen­
sion).
Official organ.—The Railway Conductor.
Headquarters.—Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Organization.—Local divisions only: United States—Alabama, 7; Arizona,
4 ; Arkansas, 9; California, 22; Colorado, 9; Connecticut, 3; Delaware, 2; Dis­
trict of Columbia, 1; Florida, 8; Georgia, 10; Idaho, 2; Illinois, 39; Indiana,
25; Iowa, 26; Kansas, 20; Kentucky, 13; Louisiana, 9 ; Maine, 4; Maryland, 5;
103312°—26------6




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Massachusetts, 8; Michigan, 14; Minnesota, 14; Mississippi, 9; Missouri, 27;
Montana, 12; Nebraska, 13; Nevada, 3; New Hampshire, 2; New Jersey, 9;
New Mexico, 7; New York, 31; North Carolina, 8; North Dakota, 7; Ohio, 33;
Oklahoma, 10; Oregon, 5; Pennsylvania, 58; Rhode Island, 1; South Carolina,
5; South Dakota, 4; Tennessee, 11; Texas, 38; Utah, 4; Vermont, 3; Virginia,
11; Washington, 10; West Virginia, 18; Wisconsin, 14; Wyoming, 6. Canada—
Alberta, 7; British Columbia, 7; Manitoba, 6; New Brunswick, 2; Nova Scotia,
3; Ontario, 32; Quebec, 8; Saskatchewan, 8. Total, 686.
Membership.—60,000.

ENGINEERS, GRAND INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF LOCO­
MOTIVE
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized March 17, 1863. The earliest organization of railroad engineers
was formed at a convention in Baltimore, Md., on November 6, 1855, attended
by 70 delegates representing 14 States and 55 railroads. This association,
known as the National Protective Association of the United States, lasted only
a year. Subordinate branches which it had organized at the height of its
activity lived somewhat longer, but were never active.
Working conditions resulting from the rapid development of railroads and
their consolidation into trunk lines produced discontent on the part of the
engineers, which led to a concerted movement of those on the roads running
through Michigan. At a meeting held in Detroit in March, 1863, 12 engineers
established division No. 1, Brotherhood of the Footboard, and adopted a con­
stitution and by-laws.
Local organization followed so rapidly that there were 54 divisions at the
time of the second annual meeting, in August, 1864. At this convention, held
in Indianapolis, the name was changed to Grand International Brotherhood of
Locomotive Engineers.
During 1864-65 the brotherhood gained a firm hold in the East as well
as What was then the West. The official journal was established in 1866 and
the Mutual Life Insurance Association, a subsidiary, in 1867. In 1870 Cleveland
was made the permanent headquarters of the brotherhood.
Never a militant organization, it has developed gradually from a fraternal
benefit society to a powerful economic body in practical control of the field
it covers.
Objects.—“ The purpose of this organization shall be to combine the interests
of locomotive engineers, elevate their social, moral, and intellectual standing,
to guard their financial interests, and promote their general welfare; its cardinal
principles, sobriety, truth, justice, and morality.
“ The interests of the employer and the employee being coordinate, the aim
of the organization will be cooperation and the cultivation of amicable rela­
tions with the employer, and to guarantee the fulfillment of every contract
made in its name by the use of every power vested in it.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Locomotive engineers. (Men operating power on ele­
vated roads or subways, wholly or in part within incorporated limits of the
city, or men upon roads of not less than 25 miles in length, 20 miles of which
shall be outside of the incorporated limits of the city, or upon roads that are
or have been operated by steam power, shall be known as engineers.)
Government.—1. “ The grand international division shall have exclusive
jurisdiction over all subjects pertaining to the brotherhood, and its enact­
ments and decisions upon all questions are the supreme law of the brother­
hood, and all divisions and members of the order shall render true obedience
thereto.”
Grand division officers are: Grand chief engineer, nine assistant grand chief
engineers, secretary-treasurer, editor, president, and secretary-treasurer of
insurance.
“ The grand chief engineer shall be the official head of the order, and shall
have the general direction of the assistant grand chiefs in their work, and
shall exercise full control over the grand office and the order in general.”
2. Divisions: Subordinate; constitution, rules, and regulations dictated by
grand division.
3. Convention: Held triennially at Cleveland, Ohio. Legislates for ordei:
and elects general officers. No referendum,




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Qualifications for membership.—“ No person shall become a member of the
Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers unless he is a white man 21 years of
age, nor shall he be initiated if more than 50 years of age; can read and write
the language used in operating the road where he is employed, is a man of
good moral character and temperate habits, and an engineer in active service.”
Membership in any other labor organization, except the Brotherhood of Locomo­
tive Firemen and Enginemen, disqualifies an applicant until such membership
is surrendered.
Agreements.—Negotiated by general committees of adjustment. “ On any
system of railroad where two or more divisions are organized, there shall be
a standing general committee of adjustment. * * * Each division on a
road or system shall be entitled to one representative and one vote in said
committee.” On a road or system where there is only one division, the local
committee of that division will be the general committee of adjustment. Com­
mittee members are elected triennially.
Benefits.—Strike and victimization (from general funds).
Locomotive Engineers’ Mutual Life and Accident Insurance Association, a
subsidiary established on December 3, 1867, and incorporated on March 3, 1894,
carries life and accident insurance, which is compulsory for all members; and
provides old age and disability pension, accident indemnity, and sick benefit
through funds raised by assessment on voluntary membership.
Official organ.—Locomotive Engineers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers Building, Cleveland,
Ohio.
Organization.—Local divisions only: United States—Alabama, 12; Arizona,
4; Arkansas, 10; California, 22; Colorado, 14; Connecticut, 4; Delaware, 3;
District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 7; Georgia, 19; Idaho, 4; Illinois, 56;
Indiana, 27; Iowa, 34; Kansas, 26; Kentucky, 16; Louisiana, 11; Maine, 6;
Maryland, 6; Massachusetts, 10; Michigan, 22; Minnesota, 26; Mississippi, 10;
Missouri, 31; Montana, 11; Nebraska, 11; Nevada, 3; New Hampshire, 3;
New Jersey, 17; New Mexico, 6; New York, 49; North Carolina, 8; North
Dakota, 5; Ohio, 57; Oklahoma, 11; Oregon, 7; Pennsylvania, 75; Rhode
Island, 1; South Carolina, 5; South Dakota, 3; Tennessee, 16; Texas, 45;
Utah, 7; Vermont, 5; Virginia, 19; Washington, 15; West Virginia, 12; Wis­
consin, 23; Wyoming, 6. Canada—Alberta, 9; British Columbia, 11; Manitoba,
7; New Brunswick, 5; Nova Scotia, 7; Ontario, 39; Quebec, 14; Saskatchewan.
10. Total, 903.
Membership.—88,200.
EXPRESSMEN, ORDER OF RAILWAY
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., June 23, 1919.
Objects.—“ To solidify the expressmen, to promote and uplift their general
welfare and advance their interests, social, moral, and intellectual; to protect
their families by the exercise of a systematic benevolence.”
Territorial jurisdiction.— United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railway express service.
Government.—1. General officers: President, five vice presidents, secretarytreasurer, editor, board of trustees of three members, executive board of five
members, and board of directors, composed of president, senior vice presi­
dent, secretary-treasurer, and chairman of the board of trustees.
The president “ shall perform the executive duties of the order and shall
exercise general supervision over its affairs.”
The board of trustees is a, financial body; the executive board is a trial body.
The board of directors is legislative and administrative and advisory to the
president.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution, by-laws, and regulations fixed by
grand lodge.
3. Convention: Held biennially; legislates for order and elects general
officers. Constitutional amendments by convention or by referendum at initia­
tive of grand lodge officers.
Qualifications for membership.—“All employees of a railway express company
who are white and have reached the age of 18 years are eligible to member­
ship, except officials of the company who rank higher than an agent, agents
whose duties are supervisory and who do not perform routine office work, route
agents, and chief clerks to superintendents.”




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Agreements.—Negotiated by general officers with employers (i. e., American
Hallway Express). Covers hours, overtime rates, and wage scale.
Hours of labor.—Eight per day.
Benefits.—Strike; sick (local).
Official organ.—The Railway Expressman.
Headquarters.—No. 105 West Monroe Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local lodges only: United States—Illinois, 2; Maine, 2 ;
Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 10; Michigan, 2; Minnesota, 3; New York, 18;
Ohio, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 6; Vermont, 3; New Hampshire, 3. Canada—
British Columbia, 1; Quebec, 1. Total, 55.
Membership.—18,000.

EXPRESS WORKERS, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized August 4, 1925, in Chicago, 111., by secession of the express com­
pany employees from the Brotherhood of Railway Clerks.
Objects.—“ Believing in the basic principles of the American trade-union
movement and acting on a conviction that only through the most intelligent
form of union organization can the hopes and aspirations of the workers in
industry for a better citizenship, bringing with it a more happy and contented
condition of employment, be realized, and believing further that the best and
most intelligent form of union organization for workers in such industries as
the express transportation industry is a modified form of industrial unionism,
* * * this industrial union organization * ♦ * is organized and estab­
lished.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—The United States, its Territories and island pos­
sessions, Cuba, Central America, Mexico, and the Dominion of Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The express transportation business.
Government.—1. General officers, consisting of president, vice president, sec­
retary-treasurer, and board of administration composed of the district general
chairmen. “ The president shall exercise general supervision over all the
affairs of the federation.” “ The board of administration shall have jurisdic­
tion over the affairs of the federation during the recess of the supreme lodge.”
2. Local unions: Constitution and laws established by supreme lodge for
government of subordinate lodges.
3. Convention: Triennial; enacts legislation and elects general officers. Con­
stitutional amendment by convention or by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“All white persons, male or female, of good
moral character, who are employed by corporations, companies, firms, and/or
persons engaged in an express transportation business, shall be eligible to
membership.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by general officers with employers. (Present agree­
ment with American Railway Express Co. covers all persons employed by the
company.)
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—Mills Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—Local unions: Alabama, 2; Arkansas, 3 ; California, 1; Colo­
rado, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 3; Georgia, 3; Illinois, 4; Indiana, 2;
Iowa, 4; Kentucky, 3; Louisiana, 3; Maryland, 3; Massachusetts, 2 ; Michigan,
1; Missouri, 2; Mississippi, 3; New Jersey, 3 ; New York, 6; North Carolina, 6;
Ohio, 3; Pennsylvania, 6; South Carolina, 5; Tennessee, 6; Virginia, 6 ; West
Virginia, 3; Wisconsin, 5. Total, 90.
Membership.—15,000.

FIREMEN AND ENGINEMEN, BROTHERHOOD OF LOCOMOTIVE
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Port Jervis, N. Y., December 1, 1873. The Brotherhood of
Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen grew out of a meeting of nine firemen in
an old shed in Port Jervis, N. Y., at which Deer Park Lodge No. 1, Brotherhood
of Locomotive Firemen, was organized. A constitution and by-laws covering
the craft was adopted. Organization of other local lodges followed rapidly,
and two years after the first gathering a convention held at Indianapolis
represented 31 lodges. This convention established the official organ of the




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brotherhood. In 1906 the name was changed to Brotherhood of Locomotive
Firemen and Enginemen.
The development of the firemen’s organization parallels closely that of the
conductors and the engineers, starting out as a fraternal benefit society and
growing into a craft union with virtual control over the working conditions
and trade relations of its members.
Objects.—“ For the purpose of uniting locomotive enginemen and hostlers,
elevating their social, moral, and intellectual standing, for the protection of
their interests and the promotion of their general welfare, the Brotherhood of
Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen has been instituted as an international
organization, having as one of its aims the desire to cultivate a spirit of
harmony between employer and employee. Realizing that our vocation involves
ceaseless peril, the necessity of making suitable provisions for ourselves, our
families, and those we feel obliged to aid, against those disasters which almost
daily overtake us, and of extending to each other the hand of charity, becomes
self-evident, and hence the brotherhood has adopted as its motto: Protection,
charity, sobriety, and industry.”
Territorial, jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, Newfoundland, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Locomotive enginemen, engine hostlers, hostler helpers,
engine dispatchers employed handling engines in or about roundhouse or ash
pit, in shop yards, locomotive works, industrial plants, motormen or helpers on
electric engines, motor or gas cars on roads where electric energy is used or
has been substituted for steam. Engine hostlers or engine dispatchers are
persons who actually handle and are responsible for the care of locomotives.
Hostler helpers are persons who are assigned and required to assist outside
or main-line hostlers.
Government.—1. General officers of the grand lodge are: President, assistant
president, 10 vice presidents, national legislative representative for the United
States, general secretary-treasurer, editor, general medical examiner, and a
board of directors consisting of seven members.
The president is the administrative and executive head of the organization,
with comprehensive powers.
The board of directors is advisory to the president. It is also a trial board
and an audit board. The vice presidents are organizers.
The national legislative representative is a full-time salaried officer who is
head of the organized legislative and political activities of the grand lodge
and subordinate lodges, with headquarters in Washington during sessions of
Congress.
2. Subordinate lodges: Autonomy almost wholly restricted by constitution;
rules and regulations imposed by grand lodge.
3. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Amendments to either grand lodge or subordinate lodge constitution by con­
vention vote only. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any worker within the jurisdiction who has
served for at least 30 days, white, of good moral character, sober and in­
dustrious, not less than 18 years of age, and able to read and write the
English language, is eligible to membership. Mexicans, Indians, or those of
Indian or Spanish-Mexican extraction are ineligible.
Failure to pass the required physical examination makes applicant eligible
only to nonbeneficiary membership.
Agreements.—“ Protective department,” organized into the local grievance
committees, general grievance committees, associations of general committees.
General committees are composed of the chairman of the local grievance com­
mittees on each railway. (On railway systems having but one lodge the local
grievance committee shall be the general grievance committee.)
“ General grievance committees shall have authority to make and interpret
agreements with representatives of railway companies concerning rates of
wages, rules respecting seniority rights, adjustment of grievances and other
matters necessary in the interest of the members they represent. When the
general committee is not in session the general chairman has authority to
interpret the schedule.”
Associations of general committees are composed of the general committees
in each of the following districts:
District No. 1. All territory lying west of and including the southern lines
of the Illinois Central Railroad and lying on the west side of Lake Michigan
and south of Lake Superior, and west of the line drawn through Duluth, and




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

shall be bounded on the south by the Mexican border and on the north* by the
Canadian border.
District No. 2. The territory east of the aforementioned line of district No. 1
north of the lines of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway and south of the
Canadian border.
District No. 3. Territory south of and including the Chesapeake & Ohio Rail­
way as far west as the Illinois Central lines mentioned as boundary of district
No. 1.
District No. 4. All territory within the Dominion of Canada, provided the
firemen on the western lines of the Grand Trunk Railway, which are located
entirely within the United States, with no overlapping seniority be allowed to
withdraw from the Canadian lines of the Grand Trunk and join the district
having jurisdiction over the territory through which they operate.
The associations of general committees $re “ for the purpose of carrying on
concerted movements relating to wages and other important general working
conditions.”
Benefits.—Strike; legal aid in manslaughter trials growing out of accidents;
tuberculosis treatment; insurance department: life and disability insurance
(compulsory membership) ; accident insurance (voluntary); pension (volun­
tary and contributory). Funeral benefit for nonbeneficiary members; sick
benefits (local only).
Official organ.—Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen’s Maga­
zine.
Headquarters.—Guardian Building, Cleveland, Ohio.
Organization.—Locals only: United States—Alabama, 9 ; Arizona, 6; Arkan­
sas, 11; California, 20; Colorado, 19; Connecticut, 4; Delaware, 3; District of
Columbia, 1; Florida, 4; Georgia, 10; Idaho, 4; Illinois, 03; Indiana, 28; Iowa,
33; Kansas, 26; Kentucky, 19; Louisiana, 12; Maine, 5; Maryland, 6; Massachu­
setts, 10; Michigan, 24; Minnesota, 25; Mississippi, 7; Missouri, 33; Montana,
14; Nebraska, 14; Nevada, 4; New Hampshire, 3; New Jersey, 15; New
Mexico, 6; New York, 55; North Carolina, 6; North Dakota, 5; Ohio, 56; Okla­
homa, 12; Oregon, 4; Pennsylvania, 85; Rhode Island, 1; South Carolina, 4;
South Dakota, 6; Tennessee, 13; Texas, 52; Utah, 7; Vermont, 7; Virginia, 14;
Washington, 16; West Virginia, 11; Wisconsin, 22; Wyoming, 6; Alaska, 1.
Canada—Alberta, 11; British Columbia, 9; Manitoba, 8; New Brunswick, 6 ;
Nova Scotia, 8; Ontario, 37; Prince Edward Island, 1; Quebec, 13; Sas­
katchewan, 11. Newfoundland, 1. Total, 926.
Membership.—106,800.

MAINTENANCE OF WAY EMPLOYEES, BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
0
Organized at La Porte City, Iowa, in 1886. A southern organization in the
same field was organized at Demopolis, Ala., in 1887. In 1891 both came
together at St Louis, Mo., and formed the International Brotherhood of Rail­
way Track Foremen of America. This organization was purely social and
benevolent in character until 1896, when it extended jurisdiction to track
laborers, changed its name to Brotherhood of Railway Trackmen, and became
a labor union. In 1902 the Canadian organization of trackmen merged with
the American body, forming the International Brotherhood of Maintenance of
Way Employees. A secession movement in 1914 resulted in the formation of a
rival organization in the Southeastern States which continued to function until
1918, when it reaffiliated with the parent body under the combined name of
United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees and Railroad Shop
Laborers, carrying with it an extension of jurisdiction over roundhouse and
shop laborers. The convention of 1925 shortened the name of the union to
Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees.
Objects.—“ The objects of this organization are: To exalt the character and
increase the ability of its members; to insure greater safety to the traveling
public and effect economy in the department in which our members are em­
ployed by interchanging ideas and adopting the best methods of performing
our duties; to benefit the general public by raising the standards of efficiency of
our membership; to alleviate distress and suffering caused by sickness or dis­
ability among our members; to assist the widows and orphans of deceased
members; to allow no person to remain a member of the brotherhood unless he
lives a sober, moral, and honest life ; to require all members to faithfully and
honestly perform their duties to the best of their ability for the brotherhood




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Itnd for their employers; to use all honorable means to secure the passage of
laws beneficial to our membership, and to improve labor conditions generally;
to stimulate the civic education of the members in their political rights and to
use the ballot intelligently to the end that the Government may not be perverted
to the interest of the favored few, but that it may be a government of the people,
by the people, for the people in the fullest sense.”
Territorial jurisdietion.—United States, Canada, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—Maintenance-of-way employees, including, specifically, all
maintenance men below the rank of supervisor, pumpers, crossing and bridge
flagmen, bridge operators and helpers, and shop laborers.
Government.—1. General officers: President; five vice presidents, one of
whom shall reside in and be a citizen of Canada; secretary-treasurer and five
elected members of the executive board, one of whom shall reside in and be
a citizen of Canada.
“ The president shall exercise general supervision over all the affairs of the
brotherhood.” The executive board is advisory to the president.
The Canadian vice president is the executive head of the brotherhood in
Canada.
The policy committee, composed of the general officers and 32 general chair­
men elected “ equally, as nearly as possible, from the southeastern, south­
western, northeastern, and northwestern sections of the United States,” deter­
mines wage movements, terms, and conditions of agreements, strikes, etc.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution and by-laws determined by grand
lodge.
3. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments either by convention or by initiative and referen­
dum. Elected officers subject to recall.
Qualifications for membership.—Any worker within the jurisdiction “ who is
sober, moral, and otherwise of good character,” is eligible to membership.
Colored workers “ shall be entitled to all the benefits and protection guar­
anteed by the constitution to members and shall be represented in the grand
lodge by delegates of their own choosing selected from any white lodge on the
system division where they are employed. Nothing in this section operates to
prevent colored employees from maintaining a separate lodge for social
purposes.”
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally by joint protective boards, on terms approved
by policy committee. Joint protective boards are composed of elected repre­
sentatives from each local lodge on roads or systems which are 51 per cent
organized.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death and total disability.
Official organ.—The Railway Maintenance of Way Employees’ Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 61 Putnam Avenue, Detroit, Mich.
Organization.—Local lodges only: United States—Alabama, 21; Arizona, 4;
Arkansas, 36; California, 13; Colorado, 13; Connecticut, 6; Delaware, 2; Flor­
ida, 12; Georgia, 16; Idaho, 6; Illinois, 105; Indiana, 45; Iowa, 64; Kansas,
35; Kentucky, 46; Louisiana, 15; Maine, 11; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts,
11; Michigan, 39; Mississippi, 18; Missouri, 72; Montana, 19; Minnesota, 33;
Nebraska, 25; New Jersey, 8; New Mexico, 5; New York, 42; North Carolina,
19; North Dakota, 17; New Hampshire, 6; Ohio, 44; Oklahoma, 38; Oregon, 5;
Pennsylvania, 34; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina, 15; South Dakota, 11;
Tennessee, 26; Texas, 51; Utah, 3; Vermont, 5; Virginia, 19; Washington, 15;
West Virginia, 20; Wisconsin, 40; Wyoming, 4; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—
Alberta, 17; British Columbia, 19; Manitoba, 15; New Brunswick, 11; Nova
Scotia, 6; Ontario, 63; Prince Edward Island, 2; Quebec, 28; Saskatchewan, 12.
Total, 1,276.
Membership.—Withheld; American Federation of Labor voting strength,
37,400.

PORTERS, BRAKEMEN AND SWITCHMEN, ASSOCIATION OF TRAIN
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Florence, S. C., in July, 1918, by 18 porters. It was then called
the Colored Organization of Railway Trainmen. On December 2, 1919, it
incorporated under the laws of Virginia as “ The Association of Train Porters,




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

Brakemen, and Switchmen/' with “ rights to organize and establish locals or
branches generally throughout the United States."
Objects.—“ To organize, develop, and improve the condition of the colored
trainmen of America, to secure fair and just compensation for services ren­
dered, and maintenance of proper wages, together with fair working conditions
for its members."
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Colored railroad workers employed as train porters,
brakemen, switchmen, and switch tenders.
Government.—1. President is chief executive officer, to whom other grand
lodge officers are subordinate. General officers are: President, two or more
vice presidents, general secretary, general treasurer, counselor, general chair­
men (one or m ore); general grievance committee of not less than three
members.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; dues, general laws, etc., fixed by grand lodge.
3. Convention: Annual; legislates for body and elects general officers. Con­
stitutional amendments by convention.
Qualifications for membership.—Train porters, brakemen, switchmen, and
switch tenders (colored) only are eligible to membership.
Agreements.—
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 622 North Thirtieth Street, Richmond, Va.
Organization.—Local lodges: Alabama, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida,
2 ; Georgia, 2; Mississippi, 1; North Carolina, 1; South Carolina, 2; Virginia,
2 ; Tennessee, 2. Total, 14.
Membership.—1,100.

PORTERS, BROTHERHOOD OF SLEEPING CAR
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
The movement to organize sleeping-car porters began in 1925. It is still in
the formative state, and while organization is being aggressively pressed, it is
secretive in its nature. Locals have been established in New York, N. Y .;
Boston, Mass.; Chicago, 111.; St. Louis, Mo.; Kansas'City, Kans.; St. Paul
and Minneapolis, Minn.; Spokane and Seattle, Wash.; Portland, Oreg.; Oak­
land and Los Angeles, Calif.; Salt Lake City, Utah; Denver, Colo.; Omaha,
Nebr.; Washington, D. C .; Jacksonville, Fla.; New Orleans, La.; Pittsburgh,
Pa.; Cleveland, Ohio; Detroit, Mich.; Asheville, N. C.; and Richmond, Va.
The Messenger, a negro publication, is being used as the. official organ of the
brotherhood and headquarters are maintained at No. 2311 Seventh Avenue, New
York City.

RAILROAD SUPERVISORS OF MECHANICS, INTERNATIONAL ASSO­
CIATION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in St. Louis, Mo., in October, 1918.
Objects.—“ The purpose of this association shall be to combine the interests
of the railroad foremen of mechanics and elevate their social, moral, and intel­
lectual standing, to guard their financial interests and promote their general
welfare. Its cardinal principles: Justice, service, sobriety, truth, and morality."
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Shop superintendents and assistant superintendents
where no general foremen are employed; general and assistant general fore­
men; foremen and assistant foremen; gang leaders, gang and hourly rated
foremen; district foremen; material and equipment inspectors; chief and
assistant chief car inspectors; traveling car inspectors; piecework and work
inspectors; traveling boiler inspectors; traveling machine inspectors; travel­
ing air-brake inspectors; traveling electrical inspectors; mechanical inspectors;
maintenance-of-way inspectors; foremen of mechanics, maintenance-of-way de­
partment; wrecking foremen; apprentice instructors; foremen of draftsmen;
chief engineers, power plants.
Government.—1. “All executive and judicial power of the grand lodge when
not in session shall be vested in the general executive board," which shall con­
sist of the international president, the general secretary-treasurer, and seven




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district presidents, and which “ shall supervise and direct all the affairs of the
association.”
2. Local unions: “ Subordinate lodges will adopt their own constitution and
by-laws, subject to the approval of the grand lodge.”
3. Convention: Held annually.
4. Referendum: Election of general officers and initiated legislation by ref­
erendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person employed within the jurisdiction
is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally by committees representing the employees
and railroads.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None. The Railroad Mechanical Foreman (discontinued).
Headquarters.—Transportation Building, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 6; Arizona, 4;
Arkansas, 6; California, 11; Colorado, 6; Connecticut, 2; Delaware, 2; Dis­
trict of Columbia, 1; Florida, 5; Georgia, 8; Idaho, 3; Illinois, 16; Indiana,
13; Iowa, 14; Kansas, 12; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 3; Maine, 3; Maryland, 6 ;
Massachusetts, 5; Michigan, 11; Minnesota, 9; Mississippi, 3; Missouri, 6;
Montana, 12; Nebraska, 5; Nevada, 2; New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 4;
New Mexico, 3; New York, 7; North Carolina, 5; North Dakota, 3; Ohio, 13;
Oklahoma, 5; Oregon, 3; Pennsylvania, 11; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina,
3; South Dakota, 5; Tennessee, 7; Texas, 11; Utah, 2; Vermont, 2; Virginia,
7; Washington, 4; West Virginia, 8; Wisconsin, 4; Wyoming, 5. Canada, 18.
Total, 311.
Membership.—16,440.

RAILROAD WORKERS, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Buffalo, N. Y., May 22, 1901, from a group of directly affili­
ated American Federation of Labor local unions, as the International Asso­
ciation of Car Workers. It remained in affiliation to the American Federa­
tion of Labor until 1911, but its chartered jurisdiction conflicted with that
of several other American Federation of Labor unions, involving it in a number
of conflicts. In 1911 it withdrew from the federation and reorganized as an
industrial union, under the slogan “ One railroad,* one organization.”
Objects.—“ The object of this organization is to advance the material, finan­
cial, social, and moral conditions of the railroad workers of America.
“ Believing a concentration of effort is the best medium through which
the men engaged in the railroad industry can promote their general welfare
and elevate their moral, social, and material standards, we therefore de­
cided to unite and solidify men engaged in all branches of this industry
under the constitution of the American Federation of Railroad Workers,
an industrial organization, based upon the principle of democratic cooperation.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The railroad industry.
Government.—1. General officers: President, two vice presidents, secretarytreasurer, a board of managers of three members, and a judiciary board of
three members.
The president is the executive and administrative head of the organization.
The board of managers is the financial agency and “ shall act as a law de­
partment.” The judiciary board is a trial board.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution, by-laws, dues, regulation, etc.,
fixed by general office.
Systems councils formed on railroads have two or more local lodges.
3. Initiative, referendum, and recall. General officers elected by referendum.
Convention on call only.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any white person of good moral character
under 65 years of age who is not afflicted with any chronic disease and who is
not of otherwise unsound health, and who is employed as a wage worker on
a railroad, except higher officials who have general supervision over railroad
workers, shall be eligible to membership.”
Applicants over 65 years of age or disqualified physically may become non­
beneficiary members.
Apprenticeship.—None.




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Agreements.—Negotiated by general advisory boards composed of the chair*
men of the local advisory boards on each system.
Agreements now in force cover Philadelphia & Reading shops; carmen, shop
laborers, and maintenance-of-way men on the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie; and car­
men in one shop of the Nickel Plate.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—The Railroad Worker.
Headquarters.—No. 315 South Ashland Avenue, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Systems councils: Philadelphia & Reading; Boston & Maine;
Pittsburgh & Lake Erie; New York Central Lines West; Toledo & Ohio
Central.
District councils: Toledo, Ohio; New York; and New Jersey.
Local lodges: Indiana, 2; Iowa, 1; Massachusetts, 4; Minnesota, 1; New
Jersey, 5; New York, 4; Ohio, 17; Pennsylvania, 17. Total. 51.
Membership.—15,000.

SIGNALMEN OF AMERICA, BROTHERHOOD OF RAILROAD
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Altoona, Pa., in 1901. Incorporated in 1908. This organi­
zation began as a local union of signalmen on the Pennsylvania Railroad.
It functioned independently from its inception in 1901 until 1914, when it affili­
ate J with the American Federation of Labor, as the Brotherhood of Railway
Signalmen of America. In 1918 the title was changed to Brotherhood of Rail­
road Signalmen of America.
Objects.—“ The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen of America is an organi­
zation incorporated for the purpose of uniting all persons of good moral char­
acter who are actively engaged on construction or maintenance of signals,
locking and interlocking plants, mechanical, electric, pneumatic, or otherwise,
to establish a fund for the relief of sick and distressed members, to guard
their financial interests, and promote their general welfare.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railroad signal departments or signal construction, main­
tenance of electric, electropneumatic, electromechanical, or mechanical inter­
locking systems, color or position light signals, electric, electric-pneumatic,
mechanically operated signals, or automatic train controlling or stopping
device, highway-crossing protection, high-tension and other lines overhead or
underground, poles and fixtures, wood fiber, iron, or clay conduit systems,
transformers, arrestors, and distributing blocks, wires or cables pertaining
to railroad signaling and interlocking systems, or signal poles and other
lighting, as required for the operation of railroad signaling and interlocking
systems, or storage-battery plants with charging outfits, with switchboard
equipments, substations and current-generating plants, compressed-air plants,
as used for the operation of signaling and interlocking systems, or compressedair pipe mains and distributing systems, as used for the operation of signaling
and interlocking systems, pipe-line connections for mechanically operated
switch and signal apparatus, with cranks, compensators, foundations, and
supporters, or carpenter, concrete, and form work of all classes in connection
with installing any signaling or interlocking system.
Government.—1. General officers: President, four vice presidents, secretarytreasurer, and an executive board of six elected members.
The president is the executive head of the organization and “ shall exercise
a general supervision over the affairs of the brotherhood.”
The executive board is advisory to the president, and a trial board. Vice
presidents are organizers.
2. Subordinate lodges: Limited autonomy; constitution dictated by grand
lodge. Local by-laws subject to approval of general president.
3. Convention: Held biennially. “ The convention shall adopt all laws and
regulations of general application for the government of the brotherhood, and
alter, amend, or repeal the same.” Constitutional amendments by convention
or initiative and referendum. Election of general officers by convention.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person of good moral character and
sound bodily health who is 18 years of age or over ” and is actually employed
in the construction or maintenance of railroad signal service (except operation)
is eligible to membership.




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Agreements.—Systems committee, composed of representatives from each
local on a given road, negotiate agreements with that road.
Contracts cover seniority, hours, general working conditions, hourly and
monthly rates.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The Signalmen’s Journal.
Headquarters.—Nos. 4750-4754 North Kimball Avenue, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local lodges only: United States—Arizona, 1; California, 5;
Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 1; Delaware, 2; Florida, 1; Georgia, 1; Idaho, 2;
Illinois, 15; Indiana, 8; Iowa, 7; Kansas, 1; Kentucky, 3; Maine, 1; Mary­
land, 3; Massachusetts, 3; Michigan, 6; Minnesota, 2; Mississippi, 1; Missouri,
5; Nebraska, 1; New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 9; New York, 20; North Caro­
lina, 2; Ohio, 14; Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 16; Tennessee, 3; Texas, 3; Vir­
ginia, 3; Washington, 1; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 4. Canada—Manitoba,
1; New Brunswick, 1; Ontario, 4; Quebec, 1. Total, 157.
Membership.—8,000.

STATION EMPLOYEES AND CLERKS, BROTHERHOOD OF
RAILROAD
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Boston, Mass., in 1908.
Objects.—“ The objects of this organization are: First, to exalt the character,
protect the interest, and promote the social, moral, and intellectual conditions
of its members, thereby insuring greater safety to the traveling public; second,
to benefit our employers by raising the standard of efficiency of all railroad
station employees; third, to use all honorable means to secure the passage of
laws beneficial to railroad employees; fourth, to allow or admit no member to
tbe brotherhood unless he lives a moral, sober life ; fifth, to require all mem­
bers to faithfully and honestly perform their duties to the best of their ability
for the companies employing them.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railroad passenger and freight stations.
Government.—1. The president is the chief executive officer, assisted by the
grand division board of directors, composed of the first, second, and third vice
presidents, and four other elected members.
2. Local unions: “All local divisions shall have the power to enact such local
by-laws as they may deem necessary,” subject to the approval of the general
president.
3. Convention: Held biennially, elects general officers, enacts legislation.
Constitutional amendment by initiative and convention. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any railroad-station employee born of white
parents who is sober, moral, and otherwise of good character, and over the ago
of 18, is eligible to membership,” except persons on the pay roll of the police
departments of the railroads. (Includes “ freight and passenger station em­
ployees, foremen, checkers, receiving and delivery clerks, clerks, freight han­
dlers, baggage-room employees, station force, janitors, callers, crossing tend­
ers, fuel-station foremen, engineers, shovelers, and round-house employees.” )
Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—No apprenticeship.
Agreements.—Negotiated by general boards of adjustment, composed of the
chairmen of the local adjustment boards of all locals on a railroad system.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—The Station Employee.
Headquarters.—Olympia Building, Boston, Mass.
Organization.—Local divisions in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire,
New York, and Vermont. Number not reported.
Membership.—Not reported.

STREET AND ELECTRIC RAILWAY EMPLOYEES OF AMERICA.
AMALGAMATED ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Indianapolis, Ind., September 15, 1892, as the Amalgamated
Association of Street Railway Employees. With the spread of electric power




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

for street railways the name was changed in 1903 to Amalgamated Association
of Street and Electric Railway Employees of America.
Objects.—“ The objects of this association shall bo * * * to place our
occupation upon a higher plane of intelligence, efficiency, and skill; to encour­
age the formation in division associations of sick and death benefit funds in
order that we may properly care for our sick and bury our dead; to establish
schools of instruction for imparting practical knowledge of modern and
improved methods and systems of transportation and trade matters generally;
to encourage the settlement of all disputes between employers and employees
by arbitration; to secure employment and adequate pay for our work; to
reduce the hours of labor, and by all legal and proper means to elevate our
moral, intellectual, and social condition.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—Fuited States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Street and electric railway service, “ comprising motormen, conductors, guards, brakemen, trolley men, street-railway transportation
bus operators employed in connection with the operation of street railways,
and all men operating cars and trains, all gatemen, watchmen, and wardens,
all employees of the car houses and pit department, all employees of the track
department, all collectors, janitors, watchmen, yard crews, elevator men,
porters, clerks, and laborers.”
Government.—1. General officers are: President, 14 vice presidents, treasurer,
and a general executive board of 9 elected members.
The president “ shall have supervision over the association as its chief
executive officer and organizer.”
The general executive board “ shall audit all books, * • ♦ decide all
points of law, grievances, and appeals, * * * and shaU have power to
authorize strikes * * * and. levy assessments.”
2. Local divisions: Autonomous within limits of international constitution.
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention. Referendum under certain stipu
lated conditions.
Qualifications for membership.—“A candidate to be admitted must be of good
moral character, in good and sound health, and a competent workman in his
line of work. He must be working at the occupation in some capacity * * *
at the time he applies.” Male and female membership.
“ No manager, superintendent, foreman, or other officer of a street and
electric railway having the rules and regulations of the company to enforce
over the employees can become a member.” Members promoted to minor
supervisory positions (starters, inspectors, etc.) may be retained or not at
discretion of local divisions.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local divisions through the executive board or a
specially appointed wage committee, with individual street-car companies.
If more than one division is employed by one company, a joint agreement is
negotiated by joint committees of all divisions concerned. Agreements are
submitted to international president for approval.
Contracts cover hourly rates of pay, hours, overtime regulations, arbitration
of disputes, and seniority rules.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death, total disability, and old age (all lump
sums; disability and old-age benefit payable only to those in actual service);
sick (by some locals).
Official organ.—The Motorman and Conductor (monthly); the Union Leader
( weekly).
Headquarters.—No. 260 East High Street, Detroit, Mich.
Organization.—Locals only: United States—Alabama, 5; Arkansas, 3; Cali­
fornia, 7; Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 14; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 1;
Florida, 1; Georgia, 3; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 27; Indiana, 5; Iowa, 13; Kansas, 4;
Kentucky, 2; Louisiana, 2; Maine, 3; Maryland, 2; Massachusetts, 25; Michi­
gan, 12; Mississippi, 2; Missouri, 5; Montana, 4; New Hampshire, 5; New
Jersey, 12; New York, 32; North Carolina, 2; North Dakota, 1; Ohio, 30;
Oklahoma, 4; Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 30; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina,
1; South Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 2; Texas, 3; Utah, 2; Vermont, 1; Washing­
ton, 7; West Virginia, 5; Wyoming, 1. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia,
3; Manitoba, 1; New Brunswick, 1 ; Nova Scotia, 1 ; Ontario, 14; Quebec, 2;
Saskatchewan, 3. Total, 314.
Membership.—100,000.




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SWITCHMEN’S UNION OF NORTH AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Kansas City, Mo., October 23, 1894; incorporated at Buffalo,
N. Y., January 9, 1902. An “ outlaw strike” in 1920 resulted in a dual
organization of switchmen which functioned for two or three years. The
membership of the dual organization, however, has been gradually reabsorbed
by the parent body.
Objects.—“ The objects of the Switchmen’s Union are: First, benevolence; to
unite and promote the general welfare and advance the interests—social,
moral, and intellectual-—of its members; benevolence, very needful in a calling
as hazardous as ours, has led to the organization of this union. Second, hope,
believing that it is for the best interests both of our members and their em­
ployers that a good understanding should exist at all time between them, it
will be the constant endeavor of this union to establish mutual confidence and
create and maintain harmonious relations between employer and employee.
Third, protection, by kindly bearing with each other’s weaknesses, aiding with
our counsel distressed or erring brothers, and to exercise at all times its
beneficial influence in the interests of right and justice, such are the aims and
purposes of the Switchmen’s Union of North America.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railroad yards; yardmasters, switchmen, switch tenders,
towermen, and interlocking men.
Government.—1. Grand lodge officers are president, assistant president, five
vice presidents, secretary-treasurer, editor, and a board of directors composed
of five elected members.
“ The international president shall have general supervision ” and the board
of directors “ shall have authority to define the policy of the union during the
interim between conventions.” The vice presidents are organizers.
2. Subordinate lodges: Limited autonomy; constitution dictated by grand
lodge. By-laws for local government must be approved by general president.
3. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any white male person of good moral char­
acter who is actually engaged in railroad yards as covered by the jurisdiction
is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—General adjustment committees composed of the chairmen of
the several local adjustment committees on a system “ shall negotiate with
the officers of the company represented for the purpose of creating a closer
relationship * * * to establish a uniform wage scale and mutual working
rules for the benefit of the switchmen employed thereon.”
General wage committee composed of the president and the chairman of the
general adjustment committees controls general wage movements.
Benefits.—Life and disability insurance (membership compulsory for the
physically qualified); funeral (for noninsured members).
Official organ.—Journal of the Switchmen’s Union.
Headquarters.—No. 39 North Street, Buffalo, N. Y.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 2; Arizona, 3;
Arkansas, 4; California, 7; Colorado, 1; Florida, 2; Georgia, 1; Idaho, 2;
Illinois, 24; Indiana, 9; Iowa, 16; Kansas, 12; Kentucky, 2; Louisiana, 5;
Massachusetts, 2; Michigan, 19; Minnesota, 11; Mississippi, 2 ; Missouri, 10;
Montana, 11; Nebraska, 3; Nevada, 1; New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 4;
New York, 16; North Dakota, 5; Ohio, 16; Oklahoma, 8; Oregon, 3; Pennsyl­
vania, 15; South Dakota, 2; Tennessee, 4; Texas, 20; Utah, 3; Washington,
10; Wisconsin, 5; Wyoming, 1. Canada—British Columbia, 1; Manitoba, 1;
Ontario, 5; Saskatchewan, 2. Total, 271.
Membership.—9,000.

TEAMSTERS, CHAUFFEURS, STABLEMEN AND HELPERS OF
AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1899 as the Team Drivers’ International Union. A secession
movement in 1901 resulted in the formation in Chicago of the Teamsters
National Union. These organizations functioned separately until 1903, when
they came together in a convention at Niagara Falls, N. Y., and formed the




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

International Brotherhood of Teamsters. With the displacing of horses by
automobiles, jurisdiction was extended to include chauffeurs and truck drivers
and in 1909 the name of the organization was changed to International
Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen, and Helpers.
Objects.—“ To organize under one banner all workmen engaged in the craft
and to educate them to cooperate in every movement which tends to benefit
the organization; to impress upon the teamsters and the public that a profit­
able teamster, chauffeur, or stableman must be honest, sober, intelligent, and
naturally adapted to the business; to teach them to take advantage of their
industrial position and to build up and perfect an impregnable labor organ­
ization ; to improve the industry by increasing the efficiency of the service and
creating a feeling of confidence and good will between employer and employee
which will prevent a recurrence of the unnecessary conflicts which have arisen
in the past and to cooperate and deal fairly and honestly with all employers
who are willing to investigate and adjust difficulties which may arise, and to
securc for the teamsters, chauffeurs, stablemen, and helpers reasonable hours,
fair wages, and proper working conditions."
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ This organization has jurisdiction over all teamsters
and helpers, chauffeurs and helpers, stablemen and all who are employed on
horses, harness, carriages or automobiles, in and around stables or garages."
Government.—1. General executive board composed of president, general
secretary-treasurer, and seven vice presidents, is the controlling body. The
president is the executive and administrative officer, with wide powers. The
vice presidents comprise a trial board.
2. Joint councils: Joint councils are delegate bodies formed in cities having
three or more locals, or in territories with three or more locals in small cities
and towns. The local officers are the delegate members of the joint councils.
“All local unions within the jurisdiction must affiliate, comply with its laws,
and obey its orders."
3. Local unions: “ Only one local of any craft chartered in any city.”
Bach local union “ shall have the right to make such by-laws as it may deem
advisable, provided they do not conflict with the laws of the international
unions.”
4. Convention: Held every five years; enacts legislation, elects general
officers, revises constitution. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—All team drivers, chauffeurs, stablemen, and
helpers who load and unload wagons and automobiles are eligible to member­
ship. “ No person shall be entitled to membership in this organization who
owns or operates more than one team or vehicle."
Agrements.—Negotiated by local unions with the approval of the general
president. In large centers agreements are generally made with organized
employers.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—Official Journal of the International Brotherhood of Team­
sters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen, and Helpers.
Headquarters.—No. 222 Bast Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Ind.
Organization.—Local unions only; in large centers locals are divided accord­
ing to the kind of service, such as laundry drivers, bakery wagon drivers, taxi­
cab drivers, etc.: United States—California, 31; Colorado, 2; District of Co­
lumbia, 2; Florida, 1; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 103; Indiana, 13; Iowa, 6; Kansas,
4; Kentucky, 2; Louisiana, 3; Maine, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 28;
Michigan, 5; Minnesota, 12; Missouri, 17; Montana, 4; Nebraska, 1; New
Jersey, 11; New York, 27; Nevada, 1; Ohio, 26; Oklahoma, 3; Oregon, 4 ;
Pennsylvania, 14; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina, 1; South Dakota, 1;
Texas, 5; Utah, 1; Vermont, 1; Virginia, 2; Washington, 16; West Virginia,
1; Wisconsin, 7; Wyoming, 5; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—Alberta, 2; British
Columbia, 4; Manitoba, 1; Quebec, 2. Total, 375.
Membership.—100,000.

TELEGRAPHERS, ORDER OF RAILROAD
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on June 9, 1886, as the Order of Railway
Telegraphers of North America. The present title was adopted several years
later. The order was a benevolent and fraternal society until 1891 when
it dropped its “ no strike " law and became a labor union.




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Objects.—“ For the protection of their [telegraphers’ ] Interests, to elevate
their social, moral, and intellectual condition; to promote the general welfare
of its membership; to establish a protective fund; and to promote and en­
courage a mutual-benefit department for the aid and comfort of the bene­
ficiaries of deceased members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada, Mexico,
“ and other countries of the world.”
Trade jurisdiction.—Railroad telegraphers, train dispatchers, agents located
at railroad stations, line repairers, towermen, lever men, interlockers, tower
and train directors, telephone operators, block operators, and staffmen.
Government.—1. General officers are president, secretary-treasurer, seven
vice presidents, and a board of directors of five elected members.
The board of directors exercises administrative and appellate jurisdiction
over the order. The president is the chief executive officer, subject to the
board of directors.
2. Local divisions: Subordinate; constitution and by-laws fixed by general
division.
3. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendtnents by convention only. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any white person of good moral character
who is 18 years of age or over and is actually employed on a railroad in
a capacity covered by the jurisdiction is eligible to membership. Male and
female membership.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by general committee, composed of chairmen of
boards of adjustment of local divisions on each system, with individual rail­
roads. Contracts subject to approval of general president. Adjustment com­
mittees on the various roads act independently in negotiations, but policies
are frequently determined by the national organization.
Benefits.—Life insurance.
Official organ.—The Railroad Telegrapher.
Headquarters.—No. 3673 West Pine Street, St. Louis, Mo.
Organization.—The unit of organization is a railroad system. Telegraphers
on any given road hold membership in the division controlling that road, no
matter where located. Members not regularly attached to any road or any
given locality hold membership at large in grand division.
There are 135 systems divisions, of which 10 cover Canadian railroads, 1
covers the Panama Railroad, and 1 (Division No. 89) the Boston Elevated.
Membership.—75,400.

TRACK FOREMEN AND ALLIED BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY
TRACK LABORERS, AMERICAN BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized March 19, 1916; incorporated May 26, 1916. In 1919 this organi­
zation amalgamated with the United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Em­
ployees and Railroad Shop Laborers, the American Federation of Labor union
claiming jurisdiction over track work. It remained in affiliation until Novem­
ber, 1924, when dissension led to withdrawal. The old organization was
renewed, the constitution was amended and revised, and an independent exist­
ence has been maintained since that time.
The organization comprises two departments with mutually exclusive mem­
berships—track foremen and track laborers.
Objects.—“ To unite the men together in brotherly love and unity for their
social, intellectual, and financial improvement; to raise the standard of their
worth to the railroad companies employing them by interchanging ideas, thus
to be enabled to put the track in proper condition for the use and benefit of the
traveling public; to assist the sick and disabled members; to bury deceased
members; to lend a helping hand to the widows and orphans of deceased mem­
bers; to assist a brother in securing employment; to encourage each other to
live sober, moral lives and to allow no person to remain a member unless he
does s o ; to appoint State legislative boards in each State to cooperate with other
labor representatives and endeavor to secure the passage of laws favorable to
the craft.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railroad trackmen.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Government.—1. Grand lodge officers: President, vice president, secretarytreasurer, and an executive board of six elected members, three of whom shall
be foremen and three laborers.
The president is the executive head of the organization; he “ shall look after
all business pertaining to the brotherhood/’
The executive board is a trial and audit board.
2. Subordinate lodges: “ Subordinate lodges may enact such laws for their
government as do not conflict with the constitution and by-laws of the grand
lodge.**
3. Convention: Quadrennially and on call; enacts legislation and elects gen­
eral officers. Amendments to grand lodge and subordinate constitution by con­
vention only.
Qualifications for membership.—Foremen's department: “Any male person
who is employed or who has served in the maintenance-of-way department in
the capacity of section foreman, yard foreman, extra gang foreman, or assistant
foreman is eligible to membership in this department”
Laborers' department: “Any male person who is employed in the maintenanceof-way department as section laborer, extra gang laborer, crossing watchman,
track walker, or lamp lighter is eligible to membership in this department.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by a grievance committee of track foremen on any
road or system on which 80 per cent of the track foremen are organized.
Grievance committee of track laborers on road or system on which a majority
of the section laborers and trackmen are organized negotiate agreements cov­
ering those workers.
Benefits.—Sick, accident, and burial.
Official organ.—American Railway Trackman.
Headquarters.—Missouri Building, St. Louis, Mo.
Organization.—Locals only: Arkansas, 3; Illinois, 5; Indiana, 1; Iowa, 2 ;
Kentucky, 5; Missouri, 6; Ohio, 1; Texas, 2. Total, 25.
Membership.—27,000.

TRAIN DISPATCHERS’ ASSOCIATION, AMERICAN
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized November 1, 1917, at Spokane, Wash. Incorporated. The asso­
ciation began as a local organization of train dispatchers at Spokane, Wash.,
and developed into the Western Train Dispatchers’ Association. At a con­
vention held in 1918 the name was changed to American Train Dispatchers*
Association. Two years later headquarters were moved from Spokane to
Chicago, where the organization now occupies its own building.
Objects.—“ The purpose of this association shall be to unite train dispatchers
in one fraternal organization to the end that there may be coordination in the
protection of their mutual interests; to promote their social, moral, and intel­
lectual standing and general welfare; to secure just compensation for their
services and promote the establishment of just and reasonable working con­
ditions.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Train dispatching on steam and electric railroads.
Government.—L Executive board, composed of president, secretary-treasurer,
three vice presidents, and a board of trustees of three elected members, “ shall
in a general way perform the executive and administrative functions of the
association.*’ The president is the administrative head, with supervisory
powers over its “ work and policies.”
2. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention vote. Convention (called general
assembly) open to entire membership, but only delegates may vote.
3. Local assembly: “ Local assemblies for the purpose of promoting the wel­
fare of the association and its members may be formed with the consent of
the president, provided that such local assemblies shall exercise no authority
or powers which by this constitution are delegated to other agencies.”
Qualifications for membership.—Any train dispatcher, white, of good moral
character and over 21 years of age, is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated by the systems committee, which is composed of the
chairmen of the committees selected by the unit of organization; i. e., all
members working under one general manager or “ similar officer in charge of
operation.” *




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Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The Train Dispatcher.
Headquarters.—No. 10 East Huron Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—General membership organization. Local assemblies main­
tained at Birmingham, Chicago, Cleveland, Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Minne­
apolis, New York, Pittsburgh, Omaha, Seattle, Spokane, and St. Paul.
Membership.—4,357.

TRAINMEN, BROTHERHOOD OF RAILROAD
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Oneonta, N. Y., September 23, 1883, as Brotherhood of Rail­
road Brakemen of the Western Hemisphere. This name was changed in 1886
to Brotherhood of Railroad Brakemen, which in turn became, in 1899, the
Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen.
Objects.—“ To unite the railroad trainmen; to promote their general welfare
and advance their interests, social, moral, and intellectual; to protect their
families by the exercise of a systematic benevolence, very needful in a calling
so hazardous as ours, this fraternity has been organized.
“ Persuaded that it is for the interests both of our members and their em­
ployers that a good understanding should at all times exist between the two,
it will be the constant endeavor of this organization to establish mutual con­
fidence, and create and maintain harmonious relations.”— (Preamble to the
constitution.)
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The term Railroad trainmen’ shall be held to cover
the following occupations:
“ In road service: Conductor, assistant conductor, ticket collector, train bag­
gageman, or persons performing the duties of train baggageman on the train
if such service is classified under any other name, brakeman and train flag­
man.
“ In yard service: Yard master, assistant yard master, yard conductor, fore­
man, flagman, brakeman, switchman, ground switchman (switch tender) or
persons performing the duties of such positions and paid the compensation
therefor, if occupation is given under any other name.
“ Train or yard men working on surface electrical railways who come in con­
tact and work with the men employed on steam railways and are subject to
and governed by the rules and regulations of the operating department which
govern the steam railway employees.”
Government.—1. Grand lodge: President, assistant to the president, 10 vice
presidents, general secretary-treasurer, board of directors, board of trustees,
beneficiary board, insurance board, executive board, and board of appeals.
“ The president shall * * ♦ perform its (grand lodge) executive duties
when the same is not in session and shall exercise a general supervision over
the affairs of the brotherhood.” The board of directors is the advisory and
coordinate administrative body. The executive board is a trial board.
2. Subordinate lodges: Autonomy closely limited; constitution dictated by
grand lodge. May make own by-laws subject to approval of the president.
3. Convention: Meets triennially; elects general officers, legislates for brother­
hood. Referendum only in specified instances. Constitutional amendments by
convention only.
Qualifications for membership.—Any white male between the ages of 18 and
45, who is “ sober and industrious” and who has been employed for at least
one month as a railroad trainman within the expressed meaning of the term,
and who passes the required physical examination, is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—General grievance committees composed of the chairman of the
local grievance committees, where three or more such locals exist on any line
or system. Boards of adjustment composed of the chairmen of the general
grievance committees where there are three or more on any line or system of
railroad having two or more general managers. General committees, which are
associations of the committees within given districts, established “ for the
purpose of carrying on concerted movements as to wages and other important
general working conditions of the brotherhood.” Districts are: No. 1, composed
of all territory lying west of and including the southern lines of the
103312°—26----- 7




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

Illinois Central Railroad, and lying on the west side of Lake Michigan, and
south of Lake Superior, and northwest of a line laid through Sault Ste. Marie,
Mich., and shall be bounded on the south side by the Mexican border; No. 2,
composed of the territory east of the aforementioned line, and north of the
lines of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway; No. 3, the territory south of and
including the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway and as far west as the Illinois Cen­
tral line mentioned as the boundary of District No. 1; No. 4, the yards of all
roads in the Chicago Switching District and the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad.
Benefits.—Life insurance (contributory); total disability (contributory);
funeral (for nonbeneficiary members); strike; sick (local).
Official organ.—The Railroad Trainman.
Headquarters.—Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen Building, Cleveland, Ohio.
Organization.—Local lodges: United States—Alabama, 7; Arizona, 5; Arkan­
sas, 11; California, 24; Colorado, 15; Connecticut, 9; Delaware, 3; District of
Columbia, 2; Florida, 6; Georgia, 13; Idaho, 3; Illinois, 57; Indiana, 26; Iowa,
32; Kansas, 23; Kentucky, 13; Louisiana, 9; Maine, 7; Maryland, 9; Massa­
chusetts, 26; Michigan, 26;. Minnesota, 24; Mississippi, 10; Missouri, 32; Mon­
tana, 15; Nebraska, 14; Nevada, 3; New Hampshire, 4 ; New Jersey, 27; New
Mexico, 8; New York, 56; North Carolina, 10; North Dakota, 7; Ohio, 61;
Oklahoma, 14; Oregon, 4 ; Pennsylvania, 102; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina,
5; South Dakota, 6; Tennessee, 14; Texas, 13; Vermont, 7; Virginia, 16; Wash­
ington, 12; West Virginia, 20; Wisconsin, 20; Wyoming, 6. Canada—Alberta,
8; British Columbia, 8; Manitoba, 8; New Brunswick, 7; Nova. Scotia, 7;
Ontario, 35; Quebec, 14; Saskatchewan, 8. Newfoundland, 1. Total, 934.
Membership.—180,000.

TRAINMEN, ASSOCIATION OF COLORED RAILWAY
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized February 17, 1912, at Knoxville, Tenn. Reorganized and incor­
porated under the laws of Tennessee on February 27, 1918.
Objects.—“ To unite the colored railway employees, to extend their interests
and promote their general welfare, to provide aid and assistance to their fami­
lies, to use legitimate and lawful means of harmonizing and rectifying differ­
ences between members of the association and employers.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railway brakemen, switchmen, and train porters.
Government.—1. Grand lodge officers: President, two vice presidents, secre­
tary-treasurer, organizer, board of trustees of three members, and an executive
bo&rd of three members. The president is the executive head of the organiza­
tion, under the general direction of the board of trustees. The executive board
is a trial board.
2. Subordinate lodges: Controlled by grand lodge; constitution and by-laws
uniform and imposed by general organization.
3. Convention: Held annually, enacts legislation, elects general officers.
Amendments to general constitution and subordinate constitution by convention
vote only.
Qualifications for membership.—Any colored railway employee serving as
switchman, brakeman, or train porter, who is “ a sober industrious male,” is
eligible to membership.
“ This organization will accept for membership men minus one arm or one
leg as long as they are railway employees in such capacity as switch tender,
baggage-room porter, crossing flagman, or call boy, and they must be ex-railway
brakemen, switchmen, or train porters.”
Agreements.—
Benefits.—Funeral.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 27 West Jackson Mound, Memphis, Tenn. (variable).
Organization.—Locals only: Alabama, 6; Arkansas, 2; Colorado, 2; Florida,
2 ; Georgia, 3; Illinois, 1; Kentucky, 3; Louisiana, 6; Mississippi, 6; Missouri,
1; New Mexico, 1; North Carolina, 4; South Carolina, 4 ; Tennessee, 7; Texas,
6 ; Virginia, 4; West Virginia, 2. Total, 60.
Membership.—4,800.




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TUNNEL AND SUBWAY CONSTRUCTORS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION
OF NORTH AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City in January, 1910, from directly affiliated Ameri­
can Federation of Labor unions, of which Emmett’s Local No. 1 of New York
was the first.
Objects.—“ The objects of this organization are: The elevation of our craft to
its proper position in the ranks of the workers; to encourage a higher stand­
ard of skill among our 'members; to cultivate a feeling of friendship among
the men of our craft; to assist each other in securing employment; to reduce
the hours of labor; to secure a higher standard of wages for work performed,
and by legal and proper means to elevate the moral, social, and intellectual
condition of our members^ We favor the enactment of laws that will better
conditions for the protection of life and property.” (Constitution.)
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The jurisdiction of the International Union of Tunnel
and Subway Constructors shall be as follows: Drilling of tunnels with or
without pressure, sewers, cellars, cutting through of streets, also railroad
cuts, either by hand, steam, air, or any other motive power; also subways,
reservoirs, dams, and also handling of explosives for blasting purposes. All
men handling explosives must be members of foremen blasters. The jurisdic­
tion of the tool sharpener shall be to sharpen tools for rock drillers and rock
men in this class of work.
“ The jurisdiction of the timberman is the handling of all timbers in tunnels
and subways, bracing of cuts and sewers, underpinning of building.
“ The jurisdiction of form makers is the construction of box forms for
concrete for subway, tunnel, dams, reservoirs, sewers, abutments for railroads.”
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of general president,
general secretary-treasurer, and five general vice presidents. “All the executive
powers of the international union between.conventions shall be vested in the
general executive council, which shall meet at least every three months.”
The general president shall have “ full supervision of the work of the organi­
zation thrQughout its jurisdiction.”
2. Local unions: Autonomy not defined by constitution.
3. Convention: Meets biennially and elects general officers.
Legislation, amendments, laws, etc., by convention or by initiative and
referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“A candidate for membership must be a rock
driller or tool sharpener, rock man, foreman blaster, timberman, laborer,
wooden concrete form maker, assistant, or foreman.”
Apprenticeship regulations:—None.
Agreements.—International union is represented on all agreement committees.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 246 East One hundred and sixteenth Street, New York
City.
Organization.—There is one branch of the international in New Jersey. Ex­
cept for this it is a general membership organization, workers being sent out
from New York to tunnel and subway construction jobs wherever needed.
Membership.—4,000.

YARDMASTERS OF AMERICA, RAILROAD
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Cincinnati, Ohio, in December, 1918. It is a consolidation of
several local organizations of yardmasters formed during 1918. A secession
movement in 1924 removed the membership on some of the eastern lines and
resulted in the formation of the dual organization known as the Railroad Yardmasters of North America.
Objects.—“ To improve and maintain at the highest possible level the working
conditions and remuneration of yardmasters and station masters. This will
consist in the universal establishment of the eight-hour day; a rest period of
one day in seven; and a vacation period of at least two weeks each year, to­
gether with a wage that will be a just measure of the importance of their
position in the transportation world.”

Territorial Jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

Trade jurisdiction.—General yardmasters, assistant general yardmasters,
yardmasters, assistant yardmasters, station masters.
Government.—1. General officers: President, chairman of the central division,
and treasurer. “All leg slative and judicial power except as hereinafter
provided rest in the central division.”
“ The president of the central division will be the executive head of the
organization. I-Ie will represent the organization in all public relations and
before all public bodies.”
The chairman is advisory to the president, and “ the treasurer can pay out
no money without his consent.”
2. System divisions: “ System divisions may set up such by-laws for their
government as may to them seem proper, provided such by-laws do not con­
flict ” with the general constitution.
3. Convention: Held tr.'ennially, enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Qualifications for membership.—Any male white person of good moral charac­
ter actually employed within the defined jurisdiction is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated by committees on various systems.
Benefits.—Life insurance (compulsory membership).
Official organ.—The Railroad Yardmaster.
Headquarters.—National Bank Building, Columbus, Ohio.
Organization.—Systems divisions only: Southern Pacific; Louisville & Nash­
ville ; Baltimore & Ohio; Erie; Chesapeake & Ohio; Gulf Coast; International
Great Northern; Texas & Pacific; Fort Worth & Denver City; Missouri Pacific;
Southern Railway; Spokane, Portland & Seattle; Northern Pacific; Wabash;
Kansas City Terminal; Missouri Central; Western Maryland; Richmond,
Fredericksburg & Potomac; Central Vermont; New York, New Haven &
Hartford; Boston & Maine; Frisco; Minnesota Transfer; Florida East Coast;
Jacksonville Terminal; Atlantic Coast Line; and Seaboard Air Line.
Membership.—4,000.

YARDMASTERS OF NORTH AMERICA, RAILROAD
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized and incorporated in Buffalo, N. Y., January 10, 1925, by secession
from the Railroad Yardmasters of America.
Objects.—“ To unite the yardmasters and station masters employed on the
various railroads of the United States and Canada for the purpose of pro­
tecting their interests and promoting their general welfare, to maintain and
improve the living and working conditions of said yardmasters and station
masters, to encourage a spirit of cooperation between said yardmasters and
station masters, to encourage thrift and the safe investment of the earnings of
its members and disseminate information regarding the same among its mem­
bers ; to provide through duly organized insurance companies, or by other legal
method, protection for its members and their families; to organize subordinate
branches in accordance with the constitution and by-laws of this corporation;
to acquire, hold, lease, mortgage, and sell real property to carry out the pur­
poses of this corporation; to do all and everything necessary and not incon­
sistent with any law to promote the welfare and best interests of its members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—Railroad yards.
Government.—1. Board of directors of 15 members has general supervisory
control. “ It shall be the duty of the board of directors to provide suitable by­
laws, rules, and regulations for the organization and for conducting the affairs
in subordinate branches in such localities as the board of directors may
determine.”
General officers: President, vice president, secretary, and treasurer, elected
by the board of directors.
2. Branches: Subordinate; constitution and by-laws imposed by general
organization.
3. Convention: Held annually on call of board of directors. Elects members
of the board of directors. Constitutional amendments by convention only.
Qualifications for membership.—Any male white person “ of good moral char­
acter” actually employed as general yardmaster, assistant yardmaster, yardmaster, or station master, is eligible to membership.
Apprentice regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by systems committees with the advice of the board
of directors.




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Benefits.—Group insurance covering death and total disability.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—Liberty Bank Building, Buffalo, N. Y.
Organization.—Branches only: California, 1; Illinois, 5; Indiana, 4 ; New
Jersey, 3; New York, 5; Ohio, 5; Pennsylvania, 3. Total, 26.
Membership.—Not reported.

ENGINEERS’ BENEFICIAL ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES
OF AMERICA, NATIONAL MARINE
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
In 1864 marine engineers from Buffalo, Cleveland, and Detroit met in
Cleveland and organized the International Association of Engineers. Repre­
sentatives of this organization met again in Cleveland in 1875 with representa­
tives of the engineers of Baltimore, Chicago, and St. Louis. On February
23, 1875, they formed the National Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association
of the United States of America.
In 1886 the engineers on the Great Lakes withdrew and formed the Brother*
hood of Lake Engineers, but four years later they reaffiliated with the parent
body.
The organization affiliated to the American Federation of Labor in 1918,
but withdrew in 1923 because of the stand of the American Federation of
Labor on ship subsidy. At the 1924 convention of the American Federation of
Labor jurisdiction over marine engineers was granted to the Steam and
Operating Engineers, an affiliated organization.
Secession movements within the National Marine Engineers’ organization
have resulted in the creation of two other bodies—the American Society of
Marine Engineers (California) and the Ocean Association of Marine Engineers
(New England).
Objects.—“ The objects and purposes of this association shall be to elevate
and maintain the rights of the craft, advance and safeguard the economic
and working conditions of marine engineers under its jurisdiction, and other­
wise labor for their better protection and advancement.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States; territory divided into jurisdictional
districts, as follows: “ Gulf coast district, all associations on the Gulf of
Mexico; Atlantic coast district, all associations on the Atlantic coast and
rivers, bays, and sounds of the same; Great Lakes district, all associations
on the Great Lakes and bays, rivers, and harbors of same; river district,
all associations on the Mississippi River and its tributaries; Pacific coast
district, all associations located in the United States territory on the Pacific
coast, rivers, sounds, and bays thereof, and west of same.”
Trade jurisdiction.—United States licensed or commissioned marine engineers
on vessels, boats, barges, scows, or any other craft flying the American flag,
propelled by steam, gas, oil, electricity, or machinery of any kind.
Government.—1. General officers are president, three vice presidents, secretary-treasurer, and an executive board of five elected members, one from
each territorial district.
Executive board is the administrative body with the president as the chief
executive officer and organizer. Executive board is also a trial board.
Each district under the control of a deputy appointed by the president.
2. Local associations: Subordinate; constitution dictated by national asso­
ciation, but “ each subordinate association has the inherent right to make
by-laws and regulations for its own government and concerns not inconsistent
with or prohibited by the constitution, laws, and regulations of the national
association.”
3. Convention: Held annually; elects general officers. Constitutional amend­
ments and general legislation by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Membership is limited to those licensed as
engineers of vessels of over 10 tons by the United States Steamboat Inspec­
tion Service, those commissioned by the United States in the Navy or United
States Coast Guard Service for engineering duty, and those holding United
States engineers’ license of motor boats of 100 tons or over.” Members must
be or become American citizens.
Agreements.—Agreement covering United States fleet negotiated by the
national executive board and the United States Shipping Board. Great Lakes
agreement by the Lakes executive committee and operating lines with approval
of the general executive board.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Benefits.—At option of local associations.
Official organ.—The American Marine Engineer.
Headquarters.—Machinists’ Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—Districts: Gulf coast; Atlantic coast; Great Lakes; river
(Mississippi and tributary waters); Pacific coast.
Local associations: Alabama, 1; California, 2; Connecticut, 2; District of
Columbia, 1; Florida, 4; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 2; Indiana, 2; Kentucky, 1;
Louisiana, 1; Maine, 2; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 9; Minne­
sota, 1; Mississippi, 1; Missouri, 1; New York, 9; North Carolina, 1; Ohio,
4 ; Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 3; South Carolina, 1; Tennessee, 1; Texas, 1;
Virginia, 1; Washington, 2; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 4; Canal Zone, 1;
Hawaiian Territory, 1. Total, 65.
Membership.—10,000.

ENGINEERS, OCEAN ASSOCIATION OF MARINE
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in June, 1916, as Local No. 66 of the National Marine Engineers
Beneficial Association, embracing the engineers on ocean-going vessels. A year
later the ocean-going engineers withdrew from the parent body and organized
the Ocean Association of Marine Engineers. Incorporated in New York State,
February 19, 1918. It continued in operation as an independent organization
until 1919, when it again joined the National Marine Engineers Beneficial
Association. Withdrawing again in 1922 they re-formed the Ocean Association
of Marine Engineers and have continued a separate existence since that time.
Objects.—Not declared.
Territorial jurisdiction.—Atlantic seaboard.
Trade jurisdiction.—Licensed United States marine and Diesel engineers.
Government.—Board of directors of five members, president, and three vice
presidents. One vice president for each branch of the craft, that is, Diesel,
shore, and steam. The board of directors appoints all paid officers of the
organization. Secretary is the executive head.
Qualifications for membership.—All licensed marine engineers on ocean steam­
ships, operators of Diesel engines are eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated by the board of directors.
Benefits.—Employment bureau.
Official organ.—Ocean Engineer (temporarily discontinued).
Headquarters.—No. 15 Whitehall Street, New York City.
Organization.—General membership. No locals.
Membership.—1,500.

LONGSHOREMEN'S ASSOCIATION, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Detroit, Mich., August 27, 1892, as the Lumber Handlers of the
Great Lakes. With the object in view of organizing all men engaged in long­
shore work, the name was changed in 1893 to National Longshoremen’s Asso­
ciation of the United States. The next year jurisdiction was extended to
Canada and it became the International Longshoremen’s Association. In 1902
the organization attempted another extension of jurisdiction to include all
marine workers and added marine and transport workers to the name of the or­
ganization. This move, however, resulted in a long fought contest with the
International Seamen’s Union. The extended jurisdiction was never recog­
nized by the American Federation of Labor and several years later the long­
shoremen relinquished jurisdictional claims over the marine and transport
workers and reverted to their original recognized title.
Objects.—“ To associate ourselves together for an association of effort and
more extended action in behalf of our own rights and interests.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada, Central and
South America.
Trade jurisdiction.—Longshore work, which shall be construed to mean “ all
work in the direct operation of loading and unloading all floating structures
on the Great Lakes, rivers, and seacoasts in the United States, Canada, Central
and South America and the United States possessions, covering all com­
modities in transit; the loading and unloading of all railroad cars on docks,
piers, or in marine warehouses, whether direct to ship or car or whether for




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assembling of cargoes; all work done in or about all grain elevators, boats,
stationary or floating; all work done in cotton compresses and cotton ware­
houses located in the several ports.”
Government.—1. “ The powers of this international association shall be exec­
utive, legislative and judicial, and shall have full and final jurisdiction over all
locals. * * * All executive and judicial powers of the association when
not in session shall be vested in the executive council or majority thereof;
which council shall consist of president, 14 vice presidents, and secretarytreasurer.” Of the 14 vice presidents, 4 shall represent the Atlantic coast
division (1 of whom must be lota ted in the Canadian Maritime Provinces);
4, the South and Gulf coast district; 4, the Great Lakes district; and 2, the
Pacific coast district (1 of whom must be from British Columbia).
“All legislative powers shall be reserved in the international duly convened
in session, * * * and shall extend to every case of legislation not delegated
or reserved to locals.”
2. Local district council: “ Wherever there are two or more locals in any
port or vicinity thereto they shall form a district council in order properly
to discuss local conditions and adjust grievances that may arise from time to
time.” Locals must affiliate. Duly chartered district councils “ have full juris­
diction over affiliated locals, subject to final appeal to the international.”
3. Local unions: “A local union may make its own by-laws, provided they
in no way conflict with the constitution of the international.” The interna­
tional concedes to locals “ full power to regulate their own wages, whether by
the hour, by the thousand, by the ton, or otherwise.”
4. Convention: Meets biennially; elects officers, enacts legislation. Consti­
tutional amendments by convention only. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any competent worker within the jurisdiction
is eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—International representatives negotiate separate agreements for
different jurisdictions. The New York agreement covers North Atlantic ports;
Galveston agreement covers Texas ports; New Orleans agreement covers other
Gulf ports; Great Lakes ports covered by a number of separate agreements.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—None (International Longshoreman discontinued).
Headquarters.—Branison Building, Buffalo, N. Y.
Organization.—Jurisdiction divided into four geographical districts: Atlantic
Coast, Great Lakes, Pacific Coast, and South Atlantic and Gulf Coast.
Atlantic coast district locals: Maine, 4; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts, 9;
New Brunswick, Canada, 5; New Jersey, 6; Port of New York, 30; Nova Scotia,
1; Port of Philadelphia, 2; and Virginia, 11.
Great Lakes district locals: Illinois, 5; Michigan, 28; Minnesota, 5; New
York, 16; Ohio, 14; Ontario, 4; Pennsylvania, 3; Wisconsin, 13.
Pacific coast district locals: Alaska, 1; British Columbia, 3 ; California, 3;
Oregon, 3; Washington, 12.
South Atlantic and Gulf coast district locals: Alabama, 5; Florida, 4;
Georgia, 1; Louisiana, 10; Mississippi, 2; Panama, 1; Porto Rico, 4; Texas,
24; and Virgin Islands, 1.
Total, 236 locals.
District councils: Baltimore, Md.; Boston, Mass.; Mobile, Ala.; Newport
News, Norfolk, and Portsmouth, Va.; New York City; New Orleans, La.; Pasca­
goula and Gulfport, Miss.; Pensacola, Fla.; Porto R ico; Savannah, Ga.; Beau­
mont, Galveston, Houston, and Texas City, Tex.; and St. John, New Brunswick.
Membership.—35,000.

MASTERS, MATES AND PILOTS OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ORGANI­
ZATION
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City in 1887, incorporated under the laws of the State
of New York as the American Brotherhood of Steamboat Pilots. In 1891 the
scope was widened to include captains, and the organization reincorporated on
April 3, 1891, as the American Association of Masters and Pilots of Steam
Vessels. In 1905 it became the American Association of Masters, Mates and
Pilots, with jurisdiction covering all three grades, and in 1916 the present title,
National Organization Masters, Mates and Pilots of America was adopted.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Objects.—“ The regulation of matters pertaining to our crafts, the elevation
of their standing as such, and their character as men.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—Officially licensed masters, mates, and pilots of lake, bay,
river, and ocean steamers and sailing vessels, and operators of motor boats.
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, eight vice presi­
dents, secretary, treasurer, and three trustees, “ shall, between the session of
the national organization, have and be clothed with all powers.” The president
is the chief administrative officer.
2. Subordinate associations: Controlled by constitution and regulations o f
national.
3. Conventions: Held annually; elects general officers, enacts legislation;
constitutional amendments by convention only. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any white person of good moral character,
“ in sound health, and a firm believer in God, the Creater of the Universe,”
holding a United States license and with two years’ experience “ on water
craft ” is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—National agreement negotiated by national executive committee
with the United States Shipping Board covers deck officers on ocean and coast­
wise ships operated by the United States Shipping Board and its agents. No
other ocean or coastwise agreements.
Agreements covering Great Lakes shipping negotiated by lake business
manager and a committee composed of two members from each of the locals on
the Lakes. Agreements covering harbors, bays, sounds, and rivers negotiated
locally by union having immediate jurisdiction.
Benefits.—None nationally; local sick and death; some locals maintain an
emergency fund for widows of members.
Official organ.—None.
Organization.—Locals only: Alabama, 1; California, 1; Connecticut, 1;
Georgia, 1; Illinois, 1; Indiana, 1; Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 1; Michigan, 1;
New Jersey, 2; New York, 5; Ohio, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 2; Rhode
Island, 1; South Carolina, 1; Texas, 1; Virginia, 1; West Virginia, 1; Wis­
consin, 1; Canal Zone, 2. Total, 28.
Membership.—9,457.

NEPTUNE ASSOCIATION
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Incorporated in New York City, March 21, 1912.
Objects.—“ The object and purpose of this association is to unite into one
great body the licensed masters and mates of ocean and coastwise steam vessels
and thus enable them to demand and obtain a voice in the making of laws and
regulations under which they are governed; to improve the condition and status
of the profession generally; to furnish assistance in professional matters and at
the same time to promote cordial relations with employers.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Licensed deck officers on steam vessels.
Government.—1. Executive committee composed of president, two vice presi­
dents, secretary-treasurer, and a board of trustees of five members is the
governing body. President is the chief executive officer.
2. Branches: Subordinate; under jurisdiction of general organization.
3. Convention: Annual. Elects general officers. Constitutional amendments
by convention vote only.
Qualifications for membership.—Any white person of good moral character
who is licensed as a master or mate on ocean or coastwise vessels by the
United States Steamboat Inspection Service is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated by the executive committee. Wage scales deter­
mined by a special elected committee and approved by a 60 per cent vote of
members.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The Neptune Log.
Headquarters.—No. 82 Broad Street, New York City.
Organization.—General membership organization, with branches in New
York, Mobile, Galveston, and New Orleans.
Membership.—2,500.




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SEAMEN’S UNION OP AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., April 22, 1892. Seamen on the Great Lakes had a
onion in 1878; marine organization on the Pacific coast began in 1883 and on
the Atlantic coast in 1888. The unions thus formed functioned as independent,
unrelated locals until 1892, when at the call of the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific
a convention was held in Chicago. It was attended by seven seamen, represent­
ing the Pacific coast, the Gulf coast, and the Great Lakes. The Atlantic coast
unions, while sympathetic to the movement, had not sufficient funds to send
delegates to the conference. This meeting resulted in the establishment of the
National Seamen’s Union. In 1893 this organization affiliated with the Ameri­
can Federation of Labor and in 1895 changed its name to the International Sea­
men’s Union of America.
Structural reorganization, providing for territorial districts and craft
autonomy, and a revision of the constitution, at the convention of 1899, estab­
lished the union essentially as it now exists.
Bitterly fought jurisdictional disputes with the International Longshore­
men’s Association over the loading and unloading of vessels lasted nearly a
decade before agreement between the two organizations was reached. At one
time in the history of the Seamen’s Union the Hotel and Restauraht Em­
ployees’ Alliance contested its right to organize cooks and stewards and was
granted this jurisdiction by the American Federation of Labor. The marine
cooks' unions, however, finally determined the matter by returning their Hotel
and Restaurant Employees’ Alliance charters and affiliating with the seamen.
Objects.—“ Recognizing that organization is the only means by which the
seamen may hope for the amelioration and final emancipation from the many
evils attending their calling, and for the purpose of furthering organization,
strengthening it where it already exists, and bringing into close fraternal rela­
tions the various bodies of organized seamen, we have organized this Interna­
tional Seamen’s Union of America.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Bona fide seamen” of the three departments on ship­
board (deck, engine room, and steward’s), and deep-sea fishermen.
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of president, 11 vice presidents,
and secretary-treasurer, “ shall act in the interests of the union between con­
ventions.”
2. Local unions: “ Each affiliated organization shall have jurisdiction over its
local affairs. * * * Any question as to what is 4local affairs ’ shall be deter­
mined by the convention, or, in its absence, by the executive board.”
3. Convention: Held annually; legislates and elects general officers. Con­
stitutional amendments by convention or by convention and referendum.
Qualification for membership.—Practical seamen capable of becoming citi­
zens of the United States or Canada.
Agreements.—Negotiated by territorial districts to cover district ports.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout.
Official organ.—Seamen’s Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 359 North Wells Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—The international union is in reality a federation of autono­
mous craft organizations embracing sailors, firemen, cooks and stewards, and
fishermen. These craft organizations are in turn sometimes subdivided into
branches.
Districts: Pacific district consists of all locals on the Pacific coast; head­
quarters, 59 Clay Street, San Francisco, Calif.; Atlantic district consists of all
locals on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts; headquarters, 1% Lewis Street, Boston,
Mass.; Lake district consists of all locals on the Great Lakes; headquarters,
359 Wells Street, Chicago, 111.
Local unions: Sailors (20 ); marine firemen, oilers, watertenders, etc. (16);
cooks and stewards (16 ); fishermen (9 ); ferry and harbor boatmen, etc. (3).
United States—California, 8; Illinois, 3; Louisiana, 4; Maryland, 4; Massa­
chusetts, 5; Michigan, 3; New York, 7; Ohio, 3; Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 3;
Rhode Island, 3; Texas, 3; Virginia, 3; Washington, 6; Wisconsin, 3 ; Hawaii,
1; Alaska, 1. Canada, 2. Total, 64.
Membership.—18,000.







MINING, OIL, AND LUMBER

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Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers, International Union of__________________
Mine Workers of America, United______________________________________
Oil Field, Gas Well, and Refinery Workers of America. International Asso­
ciation of______________________________________________________________
Sawmill Workers and Woodsmen (American Federation of Labor locals)_
Independent organizations:
Loggers and Lumbermen, Loyal Legion of_________________________________

OS
ICO
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97

LOGGERS AND LUMBERMEN, LOYAL LEGION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1917. The Loyal Legion of Loggers and Lumbermen (Four L)
is not strictly a labor union, as its membership includes employers as well as
workers in the lumber industry. It originated in 1917 as a war measure. It
was organized and fostered by Army officers and employers primarily to expedite
spruce production for airplane manufacture and secondarily to combat the
influence of the Industrial Workers of the World in logging and lumber
camps. During the war it was quasimilitary in character, and was under
the direction of high commissioned officers of the United States Army.
The degree of success attained in keeping up production and acceptable
working conditions during the war period and the firm footing which the
organization and, through it, the eight-hour day, had gained in the industry
determined the issue raised after the armistice—Shall the Four L continue?
That question was affirmatively decided with practical unanimity at two con­
ventions held in December, 1918, and reorganization followed.
Objects.—“ (a) To establish an organization to which both employee and
employer may belong and in which they may meet on common ground; (6)
to maintain the basic eight-hour day; (c) to insure just wages to the employee
and efficient service to the employer; (d) to improve living and working con­
ditions in camps and mills; (e) to provide employment service; (f) to provide
means for the amicable adjustment, on the job, of all differences between
employer and employee and for the development of their mutual interests
and friendly personal relations; (g) to furnish trade information to its meml>ers by means of puolications, circulars, and other forms of communication;
(h) to promote matters of local public welfare in its various communities;
(i) to promote education and recreation in camps and mills; ( /) to encourage,
and to provide when feasible, cooperative hospital, medical, and insurance aid
to members and their families; ( k ) to cooperate with legislative bodies for
the improvement of accident and insurance laws; (I) to develop loyalty to
the United States, its laws, institutions, and flag,”
Territorial jurisdiction.—The lumber districts of Oregon, Washington, and
Idaho.
Trade jurisdiction.—Logging, lumber manufacturing, and allied industries
(shingle mills, tie and cedar products, sash and door mills, box and match
manufacture).
Government.—1. Local unit, composed of employees and employers at any
single logging or lumber manufacturing operation; officers—chairman, vice
chairman, secretary, and treasurer, elected semiannually by the membership.
2. District board: “ District boards for each district shall consist of four
employees (two millmen and two loggers), to be elected at the annual conven­
tion by the employee members; and four operators (two millmen and two
loggers), elected by the employers of the district.” They “ shall hear all
matters on appeal from conference committees or employers, and initiate
matters of general import for the consideration of the board of directors.”
3. Board of directors, “ composed of the employees’ district board chairmen
and the employers’ district board chairman * * * constitute the legislative
body of the organization.” It “ shall elect the executive officers and have gen­
eral supervision of the affairs of the organization ”




97

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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TBADE-TJNIONS

General officers: President, elected by the board of directors, “ shall have
general supervision of the administration of the organization as its chief
executive, subject to the approval of the board of directors ” ; executive secre­
tary, general treasurer, and editor, nominated by the president and elected by
the board of directors.
Qualifications for membership.—American citizens or eligible aliens who have
declared intention to become citizens, engaged directly or indirectly, either
as employer or employee, in logging or lumber manufacturing or allied in­
dustries, are eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Agreements.—Adjustment machinery: Conference committee consisting of
three members of each local, elected by the employee members of the local.
This is “ strictly an employees’ committee, not to include any person having
the right to hire or discharge employees, and shall act as spokesman for
employee members.” Industrial relations between employer and employees
“ shall be conducted through the conference committee,” and shall cover “ the
working, living, and recreational conditions of each local; hours, wages, over­
time, unwarranted discharge of members; tool charges and breakage; and all
local conditions surrounding employment.”
District board acts on cases referred from conference committee in the event
of failure of conference committee and management to effect an agreement.
Board of directors acts on cases referred from district boards in case of
failure to reach an agreement.
Arbitration committee provided for in case of failure to reach an agreement
through board of directors.
Minimum wage scales established through board of directors by majority
vote. Wage scales actually paid established by local agreement between con­
ference committees and local management or by regional wage boards.
Honrs of labor.—Eight-hour day established by constitutional requirement.
Benefits.—Free employment bureau; local sick and accident.
Official organ.—Four L Bulletin.
Headquarters.—No. 500 Concord Building, Portland, Oreg.
Organization.—Divisions: Coast division, embracing all territory in Wash­
ington and Oregon west of the Cascade Mountains, subdivided into:
District No. 1. Lincoln, Coos, Douglas, Lane, Linn, and Benton Counties,
Oreg.
District No. 2. Tillamook, Yamhill, Polk, Marion, Clackamas, and Washing­
ton Counties, Oreg.
District No. 3. Clatsop, Columbia, Multnomah, and Hood River Counties.
Oreg., and Wahkiakum, Cowlitz, Clarke, and Skamania Counties, Wash.
District No. 4. Pacific and Lewis Counties, Wash.
District No. 5. Grays Harbor County, Wash.
District No. 6. Mason, Thurston, Pierce, and part of Lewis Counties, Wash.
District No. 7. Clallam, Jefferson, Kitsap, and King Counties, Wash.
District No. 8. Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, San Juan, and Island Counties,
Wash.
Inland Empire division, embracing all territory in Washington anil Oregon
east of the Cascades and the timber districts of Idaho, subdivided as follows:
District No. 9. Washington east of the Cascade Mountains.
District No. 10. Boundary, Bonner, Kootenai, Benewah, Shoshone, Latah.
Clearwater, Nez Perce, Lewis, and Idaho Counties, Idaho.
District No. 11. Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Grant, and Baker Counties, Oreg..
and Adams, Washington, Canyon, Gem, Ada, Elmore, and Boise Counties.
Idaho.
District No. 12. Deschutes County, Oreg.
Locals: By its form of organization the scope of the Four L’s activities is
limited to operations the owners and managers of which are themselves mem­
bers of the legion. The operation, which corresponds to the shop in manufac­
turing, is the unit of organization. The legion now covers 146 operations in
the 12 districts.
Membership.—10,000 employee members.

MINE, MILL, AND SMELTER WORKERS, INTERNATIONAL UNION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized May 15, 1893, as the Western Federation of Miners. Organiza­
tion of the metal miners grew out of the Idaho strike of 1892. The Western
Federation of Miners began as a craft union of the miners, but gradually it




MINING, OIL, AND LUMBER

99

absorbed the mechanical craftsmen and became, like the United Mine Workers,
an industrial organization of all workers “ in and about the mines.”
The Western Federation of Miners maintained an independent existence
from .1893 to 1896, when it affiliated with the American Federation of Labor.
This affiliation ended in 1898, and the union, radical from its inception, became
the prime factor in the Western Labor Union. For three years, 1905 to 1908,
it was part of the Industrial Workers of the World, which it was instrumental
in organizing, and was active in radical politics.
It reaffiliated with the American Federation of Labor in 1911 and has
remained in affiliation since then. Internal dissension growing out of that
move resulted in a number of secession movements fostered by the Industrial
Workers of the World.
In 1916 the union passed through what was practically a complete reorgani­
zation along conservative! lines, and changed its name to the International
Union of Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers, expanding its Jurisdiction from the
metal mines of the Rocky Mountain district to the entire United States and
Canada, and to cover smelters, refineries, and blast furnaces as well as mines.
Objects.—“The increasing of wages, shortening the hours of labor, and im­
proving the conditions of employment by removing or preventing as far as may
be the dangers incident to our work; eliminating, as far as possible, the dust,
smoke, gases, and poisonous fumes from the mines, mills, and smelters; to
prevent the imposition of excessive tasks; to aid all organization of working
people to secure a greater measure of justice; to labor for the enactment of
legislation that will protect the life and limb of the workers, conserve their
health, improve social conditions, and promote the general well-being of the
toilers; to endeavor to negotiate time agreements with our employers, and by
all lawful means establish the principles embraced in the body of this con­
stitution.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Alaska, Canada, and Newfoundland.
Trade jurisdiction.—The metal-mining industry, covering, specifically, miners,
smelter men, mill men, and refinery and blast-furnace workers.
Government.—1. International executive board, composed of the president, vice
president, secretary-treasurer, and four other elected members, “ shall * * *
between conventions have full power to direct the workings of the inter­
national.”
2. Local unions: Autonomy not defined in constitution.
3. Initiative and referendum: “ The initiative and referendum shall govern
all legislation.” Nomination and election of general officers by referendum.
All elected officers subject to recall.
4. Convention: Biennial. Constitutional amendments adopted by convention
subject to ratification by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person working within the jurisdiction
is eligible to membership.
“ No individual holding membership in the Industrial Workers of the World
or in any union not recognized by the American Federation of Labor shall
be admitted to membership until he surrenders such other membership; and
any member of the International Union of Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers
who becomes a member of the Industrial Workers of the World or any
union not recognized by the American Federation of Labor shall forfeit his
membership in the International Union of Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers.”
Apprentice regulations.—None.
Agreements.—“ Local unions or groups of local unions may enter into wage
agreements for a specified time, providing such agreements have the approval
of the executive board. Negotiations for agreements must be made between
the representatives <ft the local or locals affected, and the employers, with at
least one member of the executive board or representative of the general
organization present.”
Benefits.—Strike and lockout.
Official organ.—None (the Miners' Magazine discontinued).
Headquarters.—Mercantile Building, Denver, Colo.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 1; Arizona, 3;
Arkansas, 3; California, 3; Colorado, 4; Florida, 3; Idaho, 2; Illinois, 7; Iowa,
2; Kansas, 4; Minnesota, 1; Missouri, 3; Montana, 7; Nevada, 2; New Jersey,
2; Ohio, 4; Oklahoma, 11; Pennsylvania, 3; Tennessee, 2; Utah, 3; Washing­
ton, 1; Alaska, 1. Canada—British Columbia, 2; Ontario, 1. Newfoundland,
1. Total, 76.
Membership.—-20,000.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TBADE-TJNION8

MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA, UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Columbus, Ohio, January 25, 1890. The earliest unions of
coal miners were assemblies of the Knights of Labor. The National Federa­
tion of Miners and Mine Laborers was formed in 1885, and this was followed
in 1889 by the National Progressive Union. In 1890 all the various organiza­
tions of coal miners consolidated as the United Mine Workers of America and
affiliated with the American Federation of Labor.
Early in its history it encountered difficulty with the craft unions, particu­
larly the engineers and machinists* organizations, because of its policy of in­
cluding all workers “ in and around the mines.*’ The miners, however, were
strong enough to force the craft men into line and to establish the organiza­
tion as an industrial union.
Objects.—“ To unite in one organization, regardless of creed, color, or nation­
ality, all workmen eligible for membership, employed in and around coal
mines, coal washers and coke ovens on the American Continent; to increase
the wages, and improve the conditions of employment of our members by
legislation, conciliation, joint agreements, or strikes; to demand that not more
than 6 hours from bank to bank in each 24 hours shall be worked by members
of our organization; to strive for a minimum wage scale for all members of
our union; to provide for the education of our children by lawfully prohibit­
ing their employment until they have at least reached 16 years of age; to
secure equitable statutory old-age pension and workmen’s compensation laws;
to enforce existing just laws and to secure the repeal of those which are un­
just; to secure by legislative enactment laws protecting the limbs, lives, and
health of our members; establishing the right to organize; prohibiting the use
of deception to secure strike breakers, preventing the employment of privately
armed guards during labor disputes; and such other legislation as will be
beneficial to the members of our craft.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—Workers in and around coal mines.
Government.—1. International executive board, composed of the president,
vice president, secretary-treasurer, and one member elected from each district,
“ shall have full power to direct the working of the organization.”
2. Districts: “ Formed with such members and territory as may be desig­
nated by the international officers and may adopt such laws for their govern­
ment as do not conflict with laws or rulings of the international union or joint
agreements.”
3. Subdistricts: “ Formed and assigned such territory as may be designated
by the district of which they are a part, and may adopt such laws for their
government as do not conflict with the laws or rulings of the international
or district unions or joint agreements.”
4. Local unions: “ Local unions may adopt such laws for their government
as do not conflict with the laws and rulings of the international, district, sub­
district unions or joint agreements.”
5. Convention: Meets biennally; legislates for body. Constitutional amend­
ments by convention only. Election of general officers by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any wage earner employed in or around coal
mines is eligible to membership. “ Mine managers, top foremen, operators*
commissioners, persons engaged in the sale of intoxicating liquors, and mem­
bers of the National Civic Federation ” are ineligible.
“Any member accepting membership in the Industrial Workers of the World,
the Working Class Union, the One Big Union, or any otl^r dual organization
not affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, or membership in the
National Chamber of Commerce or the Ku Klux Klan shall be expelled from
the United Mine Workers of America and is permanently debarred from hold­
ing office in the United Mine Workers of America; and no members of any such
organization shall be permitted to have membership in our union unless they
forfeit their membership immediately upon securing membership in the United
Mine Workers of America.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Agreements in the anthracite field are negotiated by the district
boards and the operators.
In the bituminous fields committees of miners and operators negotiate the
basic agreement on terms determined upon in convention. This interstate




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101

joint agreement becomes the basis for district agreements, which are negotiated
locally.
Benefits.—Strike (sick, accident, and death benefits may be established locally
by a two-thirds vote of the members).
Oflicial organ.—United Mine Workers* Journal.
Headquarters.—Merchants’ Bank Building, Indianapolis, Ind.
Organization.—The unit of organization is the geographic district. District
No. 1, northern anthracite field, comprising Lackawanna and Sullivan and
part of Luzerne and Wayne Counties, in Pennsylvania, 157 locals; No. 2, Arm­
strong, Blair, Bradford, Cambria, Cameron, Center, Clinton, Clearfield, Elk,
Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Somerset, and Tioga Counties, Pa., 208 locals;
No. 4, Collinsville and Uniontown coal fields of Pennsylvania, 3 locals; No. 5,
Pittsburgh district, 214 locals; No. 6, State of Ohio and panhandle district of
West Virginia, 521 locals; No. 7, anthracite, middle anthracite, lower Luzerne,
Carbon, and portions of Schuylkill and Columbia Counties, Pa., 52 locals;
No. 8, the block-coal district of Indiana, 19 locals; No. 9, anthracite fields in
Schuylkill, Columbia, and Northumberland Counties, Pa., 91 locals; No. 10,
State of Washington, 11 locals; No. 11, Indiana, exclusive of block-coal section,
188 locals; No. 12, Illinois, 330 locals; No. 13, Iowa, 70 locals; No. 14, Kansas,
107 locals; No. 15, Colorado, 27 locals; No. 16, Maryland, 16 locals; No. 17,
West Virginia, 359 locals; No. 18, British Columbia, 6 locals; No. 19, Ten­
nessee, 62 locals; No. 20, Alabama, 3 locals; No. 21, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and
Texas, 116 locals; No. 22, Wyoming, 42 locals; No. 23, part of Kentucky, 80
locals; No. 24, Michigan, 12 locals; No. 25, Missouri, 46 locals; No. 26, Nova
Scotia, 21 locals; No. 27, Montana, 23 locals; No. 29, low-volatile regions of
southern West Virginia, 1 local; No. 30, eastern Kentucky, 16 locals. Total,
2,801 locals.
Membership.—500,000.

OIL FIELD, GAS WELL, AND REFINERY WORKERS OF AMERICA,
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in California in 1917 from a group of independent local unions
which sprang up through California and the Gulf States. An International
Brotherhood of Oil and Gas Field Workers was chartered by the American
Federation of Labor in 1900 and remained in affiliation, but with a diminishing
membership, until 1905. It disbanded in 1906. The present organization was
chartered by the American Federation of Labor in 1919.
Objects.—“ It shall be the object of this association to work for the reduc­
tion of hours of daily toil, the establishment of tolerable conditions, and to
adjust and establish a high standard and fair rate of wages, thereby assuring
to all workers in the industry just compensation and time to share in the
benefits flowing from organization.**
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—The oil, gas-well, and refinery industry.
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of president, secretary-treas­
urer, and three vice presidents, “ shall have general supervision of the business
of the international association and subordinate unions.**
2. Local unions: “ To locals is conceded the right to make all necessary laws
for local self-government which do not conflict with the laws of the interna­
tional association.”
3. Convention: Meets biennially; legislates for organization and elects
general officers, who are, however, subject to recall by popular vote. Constitu­
tional amendments either by convention or referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—All persons engaged in the industries covered
by the jurisdiction are eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally by representatives of unions and operators,
with a representative of the Department of Labor when necessary.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—The International Oil Worker.
Headquarters.—No. 208% West Twelfth Street,* Fort Worth, Tex.
Organization.—Local unions only: Arkansas, 3; California, 10; Oklahoma, 3;
Texas, 2. Total, 18.
Membership.—Withheld. American Federation of Labor voting strength,
1,200.







PAPER, PRINTING, AND BOOKBINDING
Affiliated to the American Federation of Lnbor:
Paper Makers, International Brotherhood of_______________________________
Pulp, Sulphite and Paper Mill Workers, International Brotherhood of_____
Wall Paper Crafts of North America, United______________________________
Bookbinders, International Brotherhood of________________________________
Engravers’ Union of North America, International Photo_________________
Lithographers of America, Amalgamated_________________________________
Pressmen and Assistants’ Union of North America, International Printing_
Printers, Die Stampers and Engravers’ Union of North Amorica, International
Plate---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Siderographers, International Association of_______________________________
Stereotypers and Electrotypers’ Union of North America, International_____
Typographical Union of North America, International--------------------------------Independent organizations:
Printing Trades Association, International Allied (alliance of American Fed­
eration of Labor unions)------------------------------------------------------------------------

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106

PAPER MAKERS, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in May, 1893, at Holyoke, Mass. This organization had its begin­
ning in a social club of paper-machine tenders formed in Holyoke, Mass., in
1884. It developed into a national union and in 1893 was chartered by the
American Federation of Labor as the United Brotherhood of Paper Makers
of America, with jurisdiction over the paper-making industry. A secession
movement by the pulp and sulphite workers in 1906 resulted in the organi­
zation of a separate union which drew so strongly on the membership of
the parent body as practically to demoralize it. Because of the protest of
the United Brotherhood against the dual organization it was refused affiliation
with the American Federation of Labor for several years. An agreement
was arrived at, however, in 1909. The dual organization was chartered and
the United Brotherhood rechartered with a limited jurisdiction, which in a
general way covers only the skilled workers in the machine and beater rooms
and subsequent processes. Later the name of the organization was changed
to International Brotherhood of Paper Makers.
Objects.—“ The objects of this organization are to raise our trade from the
low level to which it has fallen and by mutual effort to place ourselves upon
a foundation strong enough to resist further encroachments * ♦ * to assist
each other to secure employment; to reduce the hours of labor and to secure
adequate pay for our work and by every means to elevate the moral, mental,
and social conditions of our workers.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Newfoundland.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All machine-room help and beater engineers except
swipers and sweepers, in paper mills making news, bag, and hanging papers.
In all other paper mills except those making news, bag, and hanging paper,
its jurisdiction shall include all machine-room help (except swipers and sweep­
ers) and beater engineers, helpers on beaters, cutcers and finishers, calendar
men and rotary men, and their helpers.”
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of the president, secretary, six
vice presidents, and treasurer, shall have general supervision over the interna­
tional and subordinate locals.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution and general laws determined by
international.
3. Initiative and referendum: Election of general officers by referendum;
constitutional amendments and initiated legislation by referendum.
4. Convention: Held biennially.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person actually employed within the
jurisdiction of the union is eligible to membership. Male and female mem­
bership.
Apprenticeship.—None.
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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Agreements.—Negotiated by international officers to cover the industry, but
are signed by individual employers. Agreements cover minimum-wage scales,
hours, overtime regulations and rates, and provide for arbitration of disputes.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—The Paper Maker’s Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 25 South Hawk Street, Albany, N. Y.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Illinois, 3; Maine, 13;
Massachusetts, 2; Michigan, 6; Minnesota, 5; New Hampshire, 3; New York,
23; Ohio, 1; Vermont, 3; Washington, 2; Wisconsin, 7. Canada—Ontario, 11;
Quebec, 5. Newfoundland, 2. Total, 86.
Membership.—7,000.

PULP, SULPHITE, AND PAPER MILL WORKERS, INTERNATIONAL
BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Burlington, Vt., on January 6, 1906, by secession from the
International Brotherhood of Paper Makers. It remained an independent
organization until 1909, when an agreement on jurisdiction was reached with
the Paper Makers, and the pulp and sulphite men joined the American Federa­
tion of Labor.
Objects.—“ The object of this union shall be to secure and maintain a living
wage and lessen the hours of labor for its members; to assist each other in
obtaining employment in preference to persons not connected with the union;
and to use every honorable method to elevate its membership in the economic,
moral, and social scale of life.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Newfoundland.
Trade jurisdiction.—All branches of the pulp and paper making trade except­
ing machine-room help and boss beater men in news, bag, and hanging mills.
In other mills than the class mentioned this organization does not have juris­
diction over the beater-room or finishing-room help.
“ By the term pulp-making and paper-making trade is meant all grinder
men, wood loaders, both inside and outside the mill; all screen men, floor
sweepers, oilers, press tenders, decker men, wet-machine tenders, digester
cooks, and all the help employed on and around the same; acid makers and
all the help employed in and around acid-making plants; all shippers, finishers,
both roll and bundle, swipers; all men employed in and around any soda
mill, blow-pit men, and all men employed in and around any ground-wood,
sulphite, and soda mills doing repairs, except such as are recognized as
machinists, molders, and carpenters, who shall belong to their own union
if one exists in the city or town, otherwise they shall be admitted as members
of this union; beater men; all female help employed in and around the mills:
rope cutters and rotary men; clay mixers, wood-boat unloaders, and talc men,
and all men employed in the handling of wood, sulphur, clay, vitriol, or any
other article which is necessary in the making of any kind of pulp or any
kind of paper; teamsters in and around the mills drawing supplies to and
from any of the above-mentioned mills or working in any capacity directly
connected with the mills or the making of any kind of paper and pulp; screenplate men and their helpers and pipers; steam firemen and engineers, subject
to agreements with their international unions.”
Government.—1. “ The international union reserves the right to fix, regulate,
and determine all matters pertaining to membership in all branches of the
pulp and paper making trade over which it has jurisdiction, while to sub­
ordinate unions is conceded the right to make all necessary laws for local
government, provided such laws do not conflict with the laws of the inter­
national union.”
The executive board, composed of the president-secretary, six vice presidents,
and treasurer, “ shall have the entire management of this organization and
shall be held responsible for the efficient management of the same. At least
one member of the executive board shall be a resident of Canada.”
2. Local unions: “ Every local shall have the right to make by-laws to
govern the actions of its own members, provided they do not conflict with
international constitution and by-laws, and they must be approved by the
international.”
3. Convention: No fixed time for convention. Elect officers and legislate
for organization. Constitution amendments by convention only.




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105

Qualifications for membership.—“Any man, woman, boy, or foreman employed
in or around any pulp, paper, or soda mill," and “ all employees of paper-bag,
box, and enevelope factories * * * as well as paper handlers wherever
employed,” are eligible to membership.
Agreements.—A wage-scale conference is held by international officers and
committees representing local unions. After wage scale is adopted, the inter­
national officers enter into negotiations with the employers, either individually
or in association. Agreements are, however, signed by individual companies.
Contracts cover wages, hours, shifts, general mill rules, and arbitration.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—Pulp, Sulphite, and Paper Mill Workers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—Fort Edward, N. Y.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States.—Maine, 15; Michigan, 6;
Minnesota, 1; New Hampshire, 3; New York, 22; Vermont, 5; Wisconsin, 5.
Canada—Ontario, 9; Quebec, 3. Newfoundland, 2. Total, 71.
Membership.—10,000.

WALL PAPER CRAFTS OF NORTH AMERICA, UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1923 by the amalgamation of the National Association of
Machine Printers and Color Mixers and the National Print Cutters’ Association
of. America.
The first organization in the wall-paper trade was formed on July 23, 1883, in
New York City, as the Wall Paper Machine Printers’ Union. It was char­
tered as a local assembly of the Knights of Labor. This local is still in exist­
ence as Printers’ Local No. 1 of the United Wall Paper Crafts. Machine
printers and color mixers proceeded to organize either separately or jointly
in various localities in which the industry was established, finally coming
together in 1902 as the National Association of Machine Printers and Color
Mixers, and joining the American Federation of Labor as an affiliated national
body.
The print cutters had a separate organization which in 1903 affiliated with
the American Federation of Labor as the National Print Cutters’ Association.
The two organizations remained distinct until 1923, when, as a result of a
lockout through the entire wall-paper industry, they merged into one, and the
resulting amalgamation was chartered by the American Federation of Labor
in June, 1923, as the United Wall Paper Crafts of North America.
Objects.—“ The object of this organization shall be to unite all the workers
under its jurisdiction, to cherish and protect their interests as workingmen, to
promote the general welfare of its members and their families, to become an
active and integral factor in the labor movement of America, to educate its
members in the history of the trade-union movement and its benefits to the
economic, moral, and social life of the people.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All crafts engaged in the manufacture of wall paper
and of all kindred crafts and workers who do not come under the direct juris­
diction of any other international union affiliated to the American Federation
of Labor.”
Government.—1. “All executive and judicial powers of this organization
shall be vested in the general executive board ” composed of the president, three
vice presidents, general secretary, financial secretary-treasurer, and three
trustees.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution and by-laws dictated by general
organization.
3. Convention: Held annually. “ The government of the subordinate local
unions shall be vested in the annual convention of this organization as the
supreme head of all local unions under its jurisdiction. It shall be the ultimate
tribunal to which all matters of general importance to the welfare of the
several locals or any member thereof shall be referred for adjustment, and its
decision shall be final and conclusive. To it shall belong the power to determine
the customs and wages affecting all matters relating to the welfare of the
trades.” Convention elects general officers. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any man who can prove that he has run a
wall-paper printing machine or has mixed colors for four years in one shop
within the jurisdiction of this organization, and who at time of making appli­




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

cation is running a wall-paper printing machine or mixing colors and receiving
the prevailing union scale of wages, is eligible to membership.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“All apprentices shall be satisfactory to the
organization and to their employers previous to their apprenticeship, and
shall serve for four years in one shop. No one shall be taken on as an appren­
tice who is over the age of 20 years.
“ There shall be but one apprentice allowed for every six machine printers
employed in any one factory, and in all cases there must be a machine for such
an apprentice to go on. They shall serve their full time on the smallest
machines in their respective shops.
“ There shall be but one apprentice allowed for every four color mixers
employed in any one factory, but in no case must a journeyman be discharged
to make room for an apprentice, and no apprentice shall mix for more than
one printing machine or two grounding machines.”
Agreements.—Negotiated for the entire industry between the executive board
of the union and the labor committee of the manufacturers, but enforced and
signed locally.
Present agreement is of three years’ duration, covers hours, overtime regu­
lations and rates, apprenticeship regulations, rates per hour, and provides for
adjustment of grievances and a guaranty of 45 weeks’ employment, half pay
for idle time up to 50 weeks, and two weeks’ vacation without pay.
Hours: Not more than 50 per week for printers and color mixers; 44 for
print cutters.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 935 West King Street, York, Pa. (variable).
Organization.—Local unions only: Illinois, 1; New Jersey, 2; New York, 5;
Pennsylvania, 4. Total, 12.
Membership.—800.

PRINTING TRADES ASSOCIATION, INTERNATIONAL ALLIED
Organized March 7, 1911. This is a delegate body composed of representa­
tives of the International Typographical Union, the International Printing
Pressmen and Assistants’ Union, the International Brotherhood of Bookbinders,
the International Steretoypers and Electrotypers’ Union, and the International
Photo-Engravers’ Union.1
Objects.—“ The objects of this association are to designate the products of the
labor of the members thereof by adopting and registering a label or trade-mark
designating such products.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Newfoundland.
Trade jurisdiction.—The printing industry.
Government.—1. “ The affairs of this association shall be conducted and gov­
erned by a board to be known as the board of governors.” This board is com­
posed of eight members, four representing the International Typographical
Union and one representative from each of the other four component organiza­
tions. The officers are a president, a vice president, and a secretary-treasurer,
no two of whom can be members of the same organization.
2. Local councils: Local allied printing trades councils are formed in locali­
ties where local unions of two or more of the component international unions
exist. Each council is composed of three representatives from each of the
crafts, and it “ may adopt such provisions and rules for its government as are
not in conflict with the purposes and provisions of the general laws of the
International Allied Printing Trades Association.”
Membership.—The membership of the International Allied Printing Trades
Association consists of all members in good standing of the component inter­
national unions.
Agreements.—“ Universal label license ” issued by the International Printing
Trades Association to employers who agree to its terms; i. e., “ to employ in
printing, binding, and production of all printed matter, photo-engravings, elec­
trotypes, stereotypes, and all other illustrative matter entering into printing
and printed products, none but members in good standing of unions” which
are parties to the agreement, “ to pay their scales of wages, to observe their
1 Two organizations in the printing industry, the Amalgamated Lithographers and the
International Plate Printers and Die Stampers' Union, are not members.




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107

apprentice laws and comply with their working rules.” Work done in outside
shops and used by employers who are parties to the agreement must also be
done under conditions applying to their own shops.
Labels are owned and controlled by the International Allied Printing Trades
Association and are purchased by the local councils for the use of shops sign­
ing the agreement and receiving a license for their use.
“ No other body than the local allied printing trades council shall be allowed
to grant the use of the allied printing trades label in any jurisdiction.” Grant­
ing and withdrawal of label are by unanimous consent of council.
Individual labels of component unions can not be used in a jurisdiction to
which the Allied Printing Trades label has been granted.
Organization.—Board of governors; headquarters, Indianapolis, Ind.
Local councils: United States—Alabama, 5; Arizona, 2; Arkansas, 2; Cali­
fornia, 13; Colorado, 4; Connecticut, 5: District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 6;
Georgia, 6; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 14; Indiana, 10; Iowa, 7; Kansas, 6; Kentucky,
2; Louisiana, 3; Maine, 2; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 10; Michigan, 10;
Minnesota, 3; Mississippi, 2; Missouri, 7; Montana, 5; Nebraska, 2; Nevada, 1;
New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 8; New York, 14; North Carolina, 3; North
Dakota, 2; Ohio, 16; Oklahoma, 4; Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 10; Rhode Island,.
2; South Carolina, 4; South Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 6; Texas, 11; Utah, 1;
Virginia, 3; Washington, 8; West Virginia, 2; Wisconsin, 4; Wyoming, 1.
Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 1; New Brunswick, 1;
Ontario, 4; Quebec, 1; Saskatchewan, 1. Newfoundland, 1. Total, 246.

BOOKBINDERS, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized May 5, 1892, at Philadelphia, Pa. Bookbinders were organized in
Knights of Labor assemblies early in the development of the Knights of Labor
movement. An independent union of bookbinders was formed in Washington,
D. C., in 1850. When the International Typographical Union was formed in
1852, however, the bookbinders became a part of that organization, which at the
beginning embraced the entire printing industry. The bookbinders were the
second of the craft divisions within the International Typographical Union to
secede and organize a separate craft union. They followed the lead of the
pressmen in this regard, and organized the International Brotherhood of
Bookbinders in 1892. Two years later this brotherhood was formally recog­
nized by the Typographical Union when it released its bookbinder members to
the craft brotherhood.
The International Brotherhood of Bookbinders joined the American Federa­
tion of Labor as an affiliated international union in 1898. In 1919 it absorbed
the International Brotherhood of Tip Printers, a small organization which
had been affiliated to the American Federation of Labor since 1902.
Objects.—44To attain a uniform scale of wages, hours of labor, apprenticeship
laws for the government of the trade; the abolition of unjust, inhuman, and
degrading contract systems, the insidious task, and bonus systems; to secure
to the men and women of our craft the full enjoyment and compensation of
the wealth they create; to agree to arbitrate all differences existing between
employer and employee and * * * to promote such laws as will have a
tendency to create harmony between employer and employee and the advance­
ment of the bookbinding industry.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Bookbinding; specifically, “ bookbinders (printed or
blank), paper rulers, paper cutters, stockmen, sheet joggers, and sheet straighteners, edge gilders, marblers, folding-machine operators, Kast-machine opera­
tors, and all other automatic bindery feeding-machine operators, bindery
women, and all other branches of the bookbinding industry, hand or machine.”
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of president, three vice presi­
dents, secretary-treasurer, and six other elected members, two of whom shall be
women, “ shall have general supervision of the affairs of the international be­
tween conventions, and shall have authority to enact such regulations for the
pursuance thereof and in consonance with existing constitution and laws.”
2. Local unions: Autonomous within limits of international constitution.
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and nominates general
officers. Election of officers by referendum. Constitutional amendments adopted
by convention must be submitted to referendum. Legislation also by initiative
and referendum.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Qualifications for membership.—All persons working at the bookbinding trade
are eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
“ Indenture ” membership for first year; benefit membership thereafter. Em­
ployers may retain membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“The indenturing of apprentices is considered
the best means calculated to give that efiiciency which it is desired bookbinders
should possess, and also to give the necessary guaranty to employers that some
return will be made them for a proper effort to turn out competent workers.
Local unions must insist upon proper indenturing of apprentices and a uni­
form ratio of apportionment thereof, and that proper methods of supervision
be observed. The terms of service shall not be less than four continuous years
for men and not less than one year for women.
“All apprentices shall be guaranteed thorough instruction and be subjected to a rigid examination once every year from the beginning of the indenture.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, generally with employers’ associa­
tions. A standard form of contract is recommended by international office.
Contracts cover hours, overtime regulations and rates, weekly pay and weekly
pay day; arbitration. Strikes are prohibited. Union label in union shops.
Hours: Constitutional 44-hour week.
Benefits.—Strike; funeral.
Official organ.—The International Bookbinder.
Headquarters.—American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—Joint boards: Philadelphia, Chicago, Boston, St. Louis, New
York City, Buffalo.
Local Unions: United States—Alabama, 2; Arizona, 1; Arkansas, 1; Cali­
fornia, 4; Colorado, 4; Connecticut, 3; District of Columbia, 3; Florida, 2;
Georgia, 1; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 11; Indiana, 5; Iowa, 5; Kansas, 3; Kentucky,
2 ; Louisiana, 2; Maryland, 2; Massachusetts, 8; Michigan, 4; Minnesota, 3;
Mississippi, 1; Missouri, 6; Montana, 2; Nebraska, 2; New Hampshire, 1; New
Jersey, 2; New Mexico, 1; New York, 14; North Carolina, 3; North Dakota, 2;
Ohio, 9; Oklahoma, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 12; South Dakota, 2; Ten­
nessee, 3; Texas, 6; Virginia, 1; Washington, 4; West Virginia, 1; Wiscon­
sin, 2. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 4;
Quebec, 2; Saskatchewan, 2. Total, 157.
Membership.—14,000.

ENGRAVERS’ UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL PHOTO
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City, N. Y., October 22, 1900. The photo-engravers
were the last of the printing-craft divisions to secede from the International
Typographical Union. Separate organization was determined upon at a con­
ference held in New York City in October, 1900, which prepared for and called
a convention of photo-engravers in Philadelphia in November of the same year.
This convention, attended by 15 delegates, representing 7 local unions, founded
the International Photo Engravers’ Union. It was not until three years later
that the International Typographical Union recognized the new organization
and released to it its members engaged in that craft. The American Federa­
tion of Labor chartered the new union on May 20, 1904, as the International
Photo Engravers’ Union, with complete jurisdiction over the photo-engraving
branch of the printing industry.
Objects.—Not declared.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All methods and processes and parts thereof of pro­
ducing likenesses of whatever character or description reproduced by means of
photography or otherwise and used for printing purposes. Included among the
branches of photo-engraving, lithography, photogravure, etc., shall be artists,
soft metal, label, and wood engravers, and all other branches that may develop
from time to time.”
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of a president, three vice presi­
dents, and secretary-treasurer, “ shall have general supervision of the business
of the international union.”
2. Local union: Subordinate; controlled chiefly by international laws, but
“ conceded the right to make all necessary laws for local government ” which
do not conflict with international constitution, laws, and regulations.




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109

3. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention, except that in specified instances
amendments must be referred to general vote of membership for ratification.
Qualifications for membership.—" To be eligible to membership an applicant
must have served at least five years at the photo-engraving trade and have at­
tained the age of 21 years. * * ♦ No one having learned the photo-engraving
trade at a penal institution or having been an instructor at a school of photo­
engraving not approved by the International Photo Engravers’ Union shall be
admitted to membership except by approval of the executive council.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—Applicants must pass a physical examination.
Term of apprenticeship, “ five years at a classified branch under the jurisdiction
of the International Photo Engravers’ Union.”
“ It is enjoined upon each subordinate union to make regulations limiting the
number of apprentices to be employed in each office to one for such number of
journeymen as to the union may seem ju st: Provided, That the ratio of 1 appren­
tice to 5 journeymen and 2 apprentices to 10 journeymen shall be the maximum
number and must not be exceeded. The number of apprentices allowed shall
be based on the total number of journeymen employed in the shop at large,
and apportioned among the various branches as follows: One apprentice in a
department, and additional apprentices to be added only upon the basis of five
additional journeymen in a department. There shall be a journeyman employed
in each department where an apprentice is allowed.
“ No apprentice shall be allowed to serve an apprenticeship on night shifts.”
Agreements.—Terms of proposed agreements are submitted by local unions to
the executive council of the international union before negotiations with em­
ployers are begun. Then a committee of the local union meets with the
employers (in most cases the employers’ association) in conference on terms
approved by the main office. International officers may be called into confer­
ence in case of difficulty or deadlock in the negotiations.
There are three forms of agreement covering commercial shops, newspaper
plants, and rotogravure work. Standard agreement provides for union shop,
minimum wage scales, distribution of 44-hour work week (constitutional maxi­
mum), night work, overtime pay, shop sanitation, weekly wages, and weekly pay
day. Tendency is toward long-term contracts.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; tuberculosis; funeral.
Official organ.—The American Photo-Engraver.
Headquarters.—Tower Grove Bank Building, St. Louis, Mo.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 1; California, 3;
Colorado, 1; Connecticut, 2; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 1; Georgia, 1;
Illinois, 4; Indiana, 3; Iowa, 1; Kansas, 2; Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 1; Massa­
chusetts, 4; Michigan, 2; Minnesota, 2; Missouri, 2; Nebraska, 1; New Jersey,
1; New York, 6; Ohio, 8; Oklahoma, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 3; Rhode
Island, 1; Tennessee, 3; Texas, 3; Utah, 1; Virginia, 1; Washington, 3 ; Wis­
consin, 2. Canada—British Columbia, 1; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 2; Quebec, 1.
Total, 72.
Membership.—7,402.

LITHOGRAPHERS OF AMERICA, AMALGAMATED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City in 1882, as the Lithographers’ Protective and
Insurance Association, largely benevolent and fraternal in character. The
name was changed in 1896 to the Lithographers’ International Protective and
Beneficial Association, by which name it is still recognized by the American
Federation of Labor, under charter granted in 1906.
Prior to 1896 it was the only organization in the lithographic field. Several
others organized within the next few years, among them the Lithographic
Workmen of America, the Stone and Plate Preparers’ Union, the Lithographic
Press Feeders and Apprentices’ Association, and the Poster Artists’ Association.
The Lithographic Press Feeders and Apprentices* Association was chartered by
the American Federation of Labor as an affiliated international in 1909.
In 1915 the Lithographers’ Protective and Beneficial Association, the Litho­
graphic Workmen of America, and the Stone and Plate Preparers* Union amal­
gamated into one organization under the title “Amalgamated Lithographers of
America.”




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

The request of the new organization for an American Federation of Labor
charter under the new name brought to a head a jurisdictional dispute which
had been growing since 1913, involving the lithographers with the International
Printing Pressmen and Assistants* Union and the Photo-Engravers’ Interna­
tional Union. The controversy centered upon the offset press, a new develop­
ment in the printing industry. It was contended by the International Printing
Pressmen that as their jurisdiction covered all presswork, pressmen in the
lithographers* union running offset presses should be transferred to the Interna­
tional Printing Pressmen and Assistants* Union. Similarly the Photo-En­
gravers* International Union declared that lithographers making offset plates
were doing work conceded to that organization.
Such a division would have meant the disbanding of the Amalgamated Litho­
graphers* Association and its absorption by the other two international unions.
The lithographers refused to consider that policy, taking the position that they
would be entirely willing to become part of an amalgamation uniting all printing
unions in one organization covering the industry, but that so long as organiza­
tion continued along craft lines, the lithographic craft must be recognized.
Finally, in 1918, a committee appointed by the executive council of the Amer­
ican Federation of Labor, after an investigation, brought in a report giving
the International Printing Pressmen and Assistants* Union full jurisdiction
over the offset press and the lithographic pressmen, and giving the Photo-Engravers* International Union jurisdiction over other workers in lithographic
processes. By action of the 1918 convention of the American Federation of
Labor the Amalgamated Lithographers were given until September 1, 1918, to
comply with that decision and merge with the other two organizations along
the lines laid down. Expulsion was to follow a refusal to disband.
However, at the request of the International Printing Pressmen and the
Photo-Engravers, the expulsion order was held in abeyance pending further
efforts to come to an agreement, and it has never been carried out. The lithog­
raphers are still an affiliated union, although recognized only under their
former title instead of the one used by the organization itself.
In 1918 the Amalgamated Lithographers absorbed the Lithographic Press
Feeders and Apprentices’ Association, which had been suspended from the
American Federation of Labor in 1913, but had continued independently.
This organization is not a part of the Allied Printing Trades Council.
Objects.—44The objects of this association are to protect the individual and
collective trade interests of its members; to regulate and advance the interests
of lithography; to impart and confine to its members, or to such as signify
their intention to become members, the most advanced and improved methods
in all its branches, whereby the members in general may become the most
proficient workmen, to be a bureau for the practical distribution of situations
and help to its members; to establish a mortuary fund; to establish and main­
tain a registered union label to distinguish the product of the labor of its
members; to conduct the systematic education of its members through the pub­
lication of a monthly trade journal; to establish and regulate a fair and just
system of apprenticeship to the end that a high standard of workmanship be
maintained, and so that the earnings of labor be not unduly injured nor the
vocation of lithography demoralized by evil internal competition, and en­
deavor by all fair and just means to induce nonmembers to join its ranks, and
to try at all times to limit the employment of workmen in the various branches
of lithography under this organization’s jurisdiction to those exclusively who
are members in good standing.**
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The lithographic industry * * * composed of com­
mercial artists, poster artists, engravers, photo and process lithographers,
lithophotographers, designers, music engravers, pen and brush letterers, lithosign writers, transferrers, provers. hand-press printers, flat-bed rotary and offset
press pressmen on single or multicolor presses, printing from etched stones or
metal plates peculiarly adapted for lithographic presses and prepared by litho­
graphic stone and plate preparers and transferrers, upon paper, iron, tin, silk,
cloth, rubber, celluloid, or any other printable material; press feeders on flat­
bed, rotary, and offset presses, hand fed and automatic; stone and plate pre­
parers, all transferring and photo composing machines which are used for the
purpose of making lithographic plates and used on lithographic printing presses^
all engraving machines used for lithographic work and operated in the litho­




PAPER, PRINTING, AND BOOKBINDING

111

graphic department, and such other kindred branches as are properly linked
with lithography/’
Government.—1. International council, composed of president, four vice presi­
dents, secretary-treasurer, and one elected member for each branch of the
trade; i. e., one artist ( “ artists” includes poster artists), one engraver, one
prover, one transferrer, one pressman, one press feeder, and one stone and plate
preparer, “ shall exercise care of the interests and have entire supervision of
the welfare of the association.”
The president “ shall at all times exercise a general supervision over the
interests and welfare of the association,” and is the chief executive officer.
The vice presidents are, respectively, the administrative officers over geo­
graphical divisions of the jurisdiction.
The council is the legislative and judicial power between conventions, and
controls all strike matters.
2. Local unions: “ Local unions are self-governing in all their local affairs
except with regard to those laws which must necessarily be uniform throughout
the organization.” Constitution dictated by general organization; by-laws
optional with local, but must be approved by international council.
3. Convention: Held biennially; nominates general officers, who are then
elected by referendum. Constitutional amendments either by referendum or by
convention and referendum.
Initiative, referendum, and recall.
Qualifications for membership.—For journeyman membership, four years’ ap­
prenticeship in the branch for which application is made, “ under the rules
of the association,” and applicant must be 21 years old and earning the estab­
lished minimum rate of pay.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Term of apprenticeship, four years.
“ For the first 3, 4, or 5 journeymen in a department 1 apprentice shall be
allowed, and for 10 journeymen 2 apprentices, and for 15 journeymen 3 appren­
tices, and 1 additional apprentice for each 5 additional journeymen in the
department. One apprentice shall be allowed to each shop where process work
is being done.
“ The term 'number of journeymen employed’ shall in every instance be
computed by the average number of journeymen employed for the year pre­
ceding.
“ Locals are requested to use all means to secure the privilege of governing
apprentices.”
Agreements.—“ The international council have the authority to draw up
agreements with an employers’ association, but such agreements shall be subject
to referendum. ♦ * * Locals may enter into local agreements or contracts
with individual firms by consent of the international council,” but “ all agree­
ments and contracts entered into must be uniform in character.”
Hours: Forty-four hour week; eight hours per day for the first five days,
four hours on Saturday by constitutional requirement.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; life insurance (contributory, compulsory mem­
bership).
Official organ.—The Lithographers* Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 205 West Fourteenth Street, New York City, N. Y.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—California, 2; Colorado, 1;
Connecticut, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Illinois, 1; Indiana, 1; Iowa, 1; Ken­
tucky, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 2; Michigan, 2; Minnesota, 1; Missouri,
1; Nebraska, 1; New York, 3; Ohio, 6; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 4 ; Tennessee,
1; Texas, 1; Virginia, 1; Washington,. 1; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 1.
Canada—British Columbia, 1; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 4 ; Quebec, 1. Total, 44.
Membership.—5,400.

PRESSMEN AND ASSISTANTS’ UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, INTER­
NATIONAL PRINTING
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized October 8, 1889, in New York City. From the inception of the
International Typographical Union in 1852 printing pressmen were members
of that organization without any distinction as to kind of work performed
until 1873, when the International Typographical Union convention authorized
the chartering of pressmen in craft groups. By 1888 there was a strong senti­
ment among the craft groups favoring separation and the establishment of a
printing pressmen’s union independent of the printers.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

This sentiment crystallized into a call for a convention sent out by the New
York pressmen’s local of the International Typographical Union. The con­
vention was held in New York City on October 8, 1889, with 13 local unions
of pressmen represented, and the International Printing Pressmen’s Union of
North America was formed. It grew chiefly by secession from the International
Typographical Union, which by 1894 had become so serious that the typographi­
cal union entered into an agreement with the young organization to surrender
its jurisdiction over the pressroom and to transfer its pressmen membership
to the new union.
Jurisdiction was expanded to include press feeders, and in 1897 the name
of the organization was changed to International Printing Pressmen and Assist­
ants’ Union of North America.
The first journal appeared in November, 1890. Twenty years later extensive
property in Hawkins County, Tenn., was secured on which the union now main­
tains a home for the superannuated, a tuberculosis sanatorium, a trade school,
and its international headquarters.
Objects.—To bring about and maintain the highest quality of workmanship,
to encourage and sustain good workmen, to assist members in securing employ­
ment and retaining same, to influence the apprentice system for the benefit of
both employer and employee, and to establish and uphold a fair and equitable
wage scale.
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Printing pressmen, assistants, paper handlers, roller
makers, newsboys, and carriers.”
Government.—1. Board of directors, composed of president, four vice presi­
dents, and secretary-treasurer, “ during the interim between conventions
* * * shall have general supervision over all matters relating to the inter­
national union, and during such interim shall have power and authority to
decide all questions, disputes, and jurisdictional rights that may arise. Its
decisions shall be final unless set aside by the convention.”
2. Local unions: Autonomous within limits of international constitution and
laws. Exact autonomy not defined. Constitution and by-laws must be ap­
proved by board of directors.
3. Convention, initiative, referendum, and recall: Convention meets bien­
nially. Nomination and election of general officers by referendum. Legislation
and constitutional amendments either by convention or by initiative and
referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person of “ good moral character ” work­
ing at the trades covered by the jurisdiction is eligible to membership. Male
and female membership.
Employers actually working at the trade may hold membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ No apprentice in a newspaper web pressroom
shall become a journeyman member of a newspaper web pressmen’s union
unless he has served an apprenticeship of at least four years in a newspaper
pressroom.”
Registered apprentices “ shall be required to take a correspondence course
through the trade school of the international union.”
“Apprenticeship shall be calculated by the physical demands based upon the
iequirements of the business through expansion, by death, by retirement, or
incapacitation, and all apprenticeship regulations shall be approved by the
board of directors.”
Agreements.—Proposed agreements must be submitted to the board of di­
rectors for approval before negotiations are begun. Agreements are negotiated
by locals but they “ shall not become effective or operative for any purpose
whatsoever until underwritten ” by the board of directors.
An international arbitration agreement calling for arbitration of all dif­
ficulties in shops covered by the agreement is in effect between the International
Printing Pressmen and Assistants’ Union and the American Newspaper Pub­
lishers Association. This agreement was negotiated by the board of directors
and ratified by referendum.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death; old-age pension; home for the superan­
nuated ; tuberculosis sanatorium: trade school.
Official organ.—The American Pressman.
Headquarters.—Pressmen’s Home, Hawkins County, Tenn.
Organization.—Local unions are organized and maintained on basis of occu­
pational classification; i. e., flatbed pressmen, newspaper web pressmen, feeders,
roller makers, paper handlers, carriers, ink workers, etc., unless there are not




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enough of each classification to form a local union, in which case they are
chartered as mixed locals until such time as unified groups can be chartered;
(m=flatbed and mixed; w=newspaper web; f=feeders; ph=paper handlers;
i=ink workers) : United States—Alabama, 4 m ; Arizona, 3 m ; Arkansas, 4
m; California, 16 m, 2 w, 1 ph; Colorado, 4 m, 1 w, 1 f ; Connecticut, 6 m;
District of Columbia, 1 m, 1 w, 1 f, 1 i; Florida, 9 m; Georgia, 6 m, 1 w ;
Idaho, 3 m; Illinois, 19 m, 1 w, 1 f, 1 ph; Indiana, 12 m, 1 w, 1 f ; Iowa
9 m, 1 w, 1 f ; Kansas, 5 m ; Kentucky, 3 m, 1 w, 1 f ; Louisiana, 3 m ; Maine,
2 in; Maryland, 3 m, 1 w ; Massachusetts, 13 m, 3 w, 1 f ; Michigan, 9 m,
1 w, 1 f ; Minnesota, 4 m ; Mississippi, 4 m ; Missouri, 7 m, 1 w, 2 f ; Montana,
5 m; Nebraska, 2 m; Nevada. 1 m; New Hampshire, 3 m; New Jersey, 12
m, 2 w, 2 f ; New Mexico, 1 m; New York, 15 m, 3 w, 2 f, 1 ph; North
Carolina, 5 m; North Dakota, 3 m ; Ohio, 18 m, 3 w, 3 f, 1 i ; Oklahoma, 6
m ; Oregon, 4 m, 1 w ; Pennsylvania, 15 m, 2 w, 2 f ; Rhode Island. 2 m, 1 w ;
South Carolina, 3 m; South Dakota, 3 m; Tennessee, 7 m, 1 w ; Texas, 14 m,
1 w ; Utah, 2 m, 1 w ; Virginia, 6 m; Washington, 9 m, 1 w ; West Virginia,
4 m ; Wisconsin, 8 m, 1 w, 1 f ; Wyoming, 3 m. Canada—Alberta, 2 m ; British
Columbia, 2 m ; Manitoba, 1 m, 1 w ; New Brunswick, 1 m ; Ontario, 7 m, 1 w ;
Quebec, 2 m ; Saskatchewan, 2 m. Newfoundland, 1 m. Total, 318 m, 34 w,
20 f, 3 ph, 2 i.
Membership.—45,000.

PRINTERS, DIE STAMPERS, AND ENGRAVERS’ UNION OF NORTH
AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL PLATE
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Boston in 1892. Unions of plate printers existed in Philadel­
phia and Washington at the time of the rise of the Knights of Labor. They
became identified with the Knights of Labor movement but later followed the
craft movement into the American Federation of Labor. The Knights of Labor
locals and independent unions held a convention in Boston in 1892 and organized the National Steel and Copper Plate Printers Union “ National.” In
1901 this name was changed to “ International,” to include the Canada plate
printers. In 1920 jurisdiction was extended to include die stampers and
the name was changed accordingly. In 1925 the engravers organized in tho
International Steel and Copper Plate Engravers’ League, an organization chartered by the American Federation of Labor in 1918, amalgamated with the
plate printers. Since the amalgamation the name of the organization has
been changed to International Plate Printers, Die Stampers, and Engravers'
Union of North America.
Objects.—" To concentrate our efforts for the attainment of the rights of labor
and the preservation thereof to those who work at the art of plate printing
and die stamping, believing that organization based on sound principles and
directed by conservative intelligence furnishes the best move by which we may
secure a more equitable share of the wealth which we create; to promote the
general welfare of our members by improving our trade and social conditions
and to assist each other in all matters relating to our industry.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—The United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Plate printing, die stamping, and engraving.
Government.—1. Executive council, consisting of president, two vice presi­
dents, secretary-treasurer, and one representative from each local union “ shall
have general supervision of the business of the international union and of
local unions.”
2. Local unionsSubordinate, but “ conceded the right of making all neces­
sary laws for local government which do not conflict with the laws of the
international union.”
3. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention only. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Four years’ apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Apprentices must be not less than 16 or more
than 18 years of age and serve an apprenticeship of 4 years. Conditional mem­
bership during the fourth year is optional with local unions. Ratio of appren­
tices to journeymen regulated by local unions.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—Strike and death.
Official organ.—The Plate Printer.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Headquarters.—No. 1630 West Louden Street, Philadelphia, Pa. (variable).
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—District of Columbia, 1;
Illinois, 2; Massachusetts, 3; New York, 6; Ohio, 1; Pennsylvania, 2. Canada—
Ontario, 1. Total, 16.
Membership.—1,000.

SIDEROGRAPHERS, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Washington, D. C., January 11, 1899, as the Steel Plate Trans­
ferrers* Association. In 1905 the name was changed to International Steel
Plate Transferrers’ Association, and in 1921 it became the International Asso­
ciation of Siderographers.
Objects.—“ First, to unite more closely the siderographers, no matter where
they may apply their talent; second, to encourage and sustain its members in
the preservation of their rights; third, to assist any member seeking employ­
ment ; fourth, to bring about and maintain the highest quality of workmanship;
and fifth, to advance the standard of the profession and industry.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Siderography.*
Government.—1. “ The supreme government of the International Association
of Siderographers is lodged in the international association, and the constitu­
tion and laws enacted thereunder shall be the supreme law of the organization.
“All legislative powers shall be vested in the international association. Dur­
ing the interim between sessions of the international association the executive
and judicial powers of the international shall be vested in the executive
board,” composed of president, two vice presidents, secretary, and treasurer,
which “ shall have full and discretionary power.”
2. Local unions: “Any local association can enact by-laws or rules of order
for their government not in conflict with international constitution, laws, or
rules.”
3. Convention: Held biennially; legislates and elects general officers. Con­
stitutional amendments by convention only. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any siderographer of good moral standing
who has worked at the trade five full years or more at actual siderography may
be admitted to recognized (journeyman) membership.” Apprentice members
become junior members after two years’ apprenticeship.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—Unemployment.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 2232 Decatur Place NW., Washington, D. C.
Organization.—The Washington, D. C., association has jurisdiction over all
siderographers in the city of Washington and in the cities of all other coun­
tries outside the United States, except Great Britain.
The New York association has jurisdiction over all siderographers in the
United States except Washington.
The Ottawa association has jurisdiction over all siderographers in Canada
and Great Britain.
Membership.—80 (100 per cent, organization).

STEREOTYPERS AND ELECTROTYPERS’ UNION OF NORTH
AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Cincinnati, Ohio, in August, 1902. Originally stereotypers and
electrotypers were part of the International Typographical Union. With the
development of their craft and increase in numbers they became somewhat
autonomous units within the International Typographical Union. A movement
toward independence began in 1898 and ended in 1902, when the Typographical
Union relinquished jurisdiction, and at a convention held in Cincinnati the
craft organization was established.
Objects.—Not declared.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
2 Transferring from engraved steel plates to wax sheets, thence to meta] plates for
printing.




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115

Trade jurisdiction.—“All work necessary for the preparation of forms, cuts,
and other originals for molding; the molding in wax, clay, lead, celluloid,
paper matrix or flong or other paper, vegetable, mineral, or other composition
and the necessary preparation of such molding material and all work by any
process for the perfecting of such molds, wax ruling or engraving; the casting
of plates for printing or other purposes in lead, tin, aluminum, and other
metals and the composition of such metals or other material; the care and
preparation of such casting material, the finishing and every process for the
completing of such plates for printing and other purposes; all work done by
electrolytic or other process in the production of molds or plates to be used
for printing or other purposes, such as the deposition of copper, cobalt, steel,
brass, nickel, steel, or other base metals or other alloys, and the preparation
and completion of such work.”
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of president, vice president, sec­
retary-treasurer, and two elected members, one of whom shall be an electrotype
finisher and the other an electrotyper, “ shall have general supervision of the
business of the international union and subordinate unions.”
2. Local unions: “ To subordinate unions is conceded the right to make all
necessary laws for local government which do not conflict with the laws of the
international union.”
3. Initiative, referendum, and recall, and convention: All general officers
elected by referendum and subject to recall. Convention meets annually. Con­
stitutional amendments and new legislation enacted by convention submitted
to referendum. Legislation may be initiated without reference to convention.
Qualifications for membership.—Citizenship or citizenship intention and five
years’ experience at the trade.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Five-year term. “ It is enjoined upon each
subordinate union to make regulations limiting the number of apprentices to
be employed in each office to one for such number of journeymen as to the
union may seem just.
“ It shall be obligatory upon each subordinate union defining through its
regulations the ratio of apprentices to prevail within its jurisdiction, to also
devise and adopt some practical method or system best suited to meet existing
conditions, that will provide for the thorough instruction of the trade ap­
prentice in all the intricacies of the craft during his five-year apprentice term.
“ Subordinate unions shall so regulate the registration of apprentices and the
acceptance of such apprentices into journeyman membership that as nearly as
possible but one-fifth of the members that arc registered shall be taken in as
journeymen in any one year.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, generally with employers’ associa­
tions, but must be approved and signed by the international president.
Agreements cover union shop, 44-hour week, overtime regulations and pay;
weekly pay day; apprentice regulations; and some form of arbitration of
disputes.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; funeral.
Official organ.—International Stereotypers and Electrotypers’ Union Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 3110 Olive Street, Kansas City, Mo.
Organization.—Local unions only; stereotypers and electrotypers are organ­
ized into separate locals in large centers or plants; in small cities one local
includes both crafts: United States—Alabama, 2; Arkansas, 1; California, 8;
Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 3; District of Columbia, 2; Florida, 3; Georgia, 1;
Illinois, 7; Indiana, 6; Iowa, 4; Kansas, 2; Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 2; Maine,
1; Maryland, 2; Massachusetts, 7; Michigan, 7; Minnesota, 5; Missouri, 4;
Montana, 3; Nebraska, 2 ; New Jersey, 1; New York, 11; North Dakota, 1;
Ohio, 12; Oklahoma, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 12; Rhode Island, 1; South
Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 4; Texas, 10; Utah, 1; Virginia, 1; Washington, 3; Wis­
consin, 3. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 1; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 4 ;
Quebec, 1; Saskatchewan, 1. Total, 149.
Membership.—7,000.

TYPOGRAPHICAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized May 3, 1852. Organization in the printing industry dates from
the beginning of the nineteenth century. The first attempt at a national organ­
ization was in November, 1836, when representatives of local societies met in




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-tTNIONS

Washington and formed the National Typographical Society. At its conven­
tion in 1837 eight American cities were represented, and a fraternal delegate
from Novia Scotia was seated. While this organization collapsed as a national
body in 1840, local societies continued to increase in number and strength.
In 1850 these local societies again came together in a national convention held
in New York City. The establishment of trade standards, discipline of mem­
bers, and apprentice regulations were undertaken and a national executive
committe was elected. When the same group met again in 1851 at Baltimore
it inaugurated the National Typographical Union and adopted a constitution.
This constitution was submitted to all the existing local societies of printers
for acceptance, and was followed by a call to all who ratified it to meet in con­
vention at Cincinnati in 1852. At that meeting the organization which later
became the International Typographical Union was formally begun, with 14
locals of printers and pressmen. With its spread into Canada, the national
union became an international and the name was changed to the present one
in 1869.
Originally the International Typographical Union covered the entire in­
dustry, although compositors formed the bulk of the membership. But a move­
ment toward independent craft organization began in 1888 with the pressmen.
An independent union of printing pressmen was a going concern when the Inter­
national Typographical Union convention of 1891 refused to recognize it or to
accept its working card. The bookbinders followed the example of the press­
men, and in 1894 the International Typographical Union, by agreement with
the International Printing Pressmen’s Union and the newly organized Inter­
national Brotherhood of Bookbinders, released its pressmen and bookbinder
members to the newer unions and relinquished jurisdiction over those two
branches. Secession of the stereotypers and electrotypers began in 189S and
ended in 1902 with the recognition by the International Typographical Union
of the independent union and the surrender of its members engaged in that craft.
Similarly in 1903 the photo-engravers transferred from the International Typo­
graphical Union to the International Photo-Engravers* Union, and the Typo­
graphical Union became a purely craft union.
Jurisdictional difficulties with the International Association of Machinists
followed the introduction of typesetting machines in printing offices, but the
International Typographical Union successfully maintained its position that
typesetting-machine operators must belong to the printers’ union.
The German-American Typographia was inaugurated as a national organ­
ization at a convention held in Philadelphia in April, 1873, by delegates from
local organizations of German printers employed by German-language papers
in New York, Philadelphia. Cincinnati, and St. Louis. Similar organizations
In Buffalo, Cleveland, and Detroit, while not represented at the meeting, joined
the national body. On July 1, 1873, it first issued its official journal, Journal
fiir Buchdruekerkunst, which has remained in continuous publication ever since.
The organization was formally recognized by the International Typograph­
ical Union in 1884, and 10 years later it became a part of the larger organ­
ization, under an agreement by which it preserved its beneficiary features and
practical autonomy. The general executive board was abolished and the chief
executive officer of the German-American Typhographia became a vice presi­
dent of the International Typographical Union.
The employment of women in the printing trade began about 1832. Their
inclusion in the industry and in the organizations was fought for a generation.
In 1870 a “ union of women printers” was formed in New York City, which
applied to the International Typographical Union for admission and was chart­
ered as a local union. Organization of women into separate unions was not
a success, however, and the convention of 1872 admitted them to membership
on equal terms with the men.
Indianapolis was made the official headquarters of the union at the 1888
convention, and the first official journal was published in that city on July 15,
1889. Two generous bequests, one of $10,000 and the other of an 80-acre tract
of land in Colorado Springs, Colo., made possible the establishment of a home
for aged and indigent members. This institution, known as the Union Printers’
Home, opened in May, 1892. Later it grew into a hospital and tuberculosis
sanitarium as well as a home.
Since 1900 the structure and machinery of government of the International
Typographical Union have been altered to make the local unit subordinate to
a powerful central organization.
Objects.—Not stated.




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117

Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada, Newfound­
land, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ Printers, proof readers who are practical printers,
machine tenders, mailers, and kindred trades.” 3
Government.—1. Executive council, consisting of the president, first, second,
and third vice presidents, and secretary-treasurer, “ shall have general super­
vision of the business of the international union and of subordinate unions.”
2. Trade district unions: A trade district union may “charter, establish, and
form unions of its craft; charters to be procured from the International Typo­
graphical Union,” and has power “ to make all laws for the sole government of
its craft.”
3. Local unions: “ To subordinate unions is conceded the right to make all
necessary laws for local government which do not conflict with the laws of the
international.”
4. Convention: Meets annually. “ The convention of the International Typo­
graphical Union shall have power to enact by-laws and general laws for the
government of the craft, but all laws involving an increased taxation shall be
submitted to a referendum vote.” Constitutional amendments passed by con­
vention must be submitted to referendum.
Nomination and election of general officers by referendum.
5. “ Typographia: ” German-American unions. Autonomous within limits of
amalgamation agreement
Qualifications for membership.—“ No person shall be admitted to membership
in a subordinate union who has not served an apprenticeship of at least five
years except with the consent of the president of the international, or of the
president of the trade district union of his craft ” Male and female mem­
bership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Apprentices shall be not less than 16 years of
age when beginning their apprenticeship and shall serve an apprenticeship of
5 years.
“ Beginning with the third year apprentices shall be enrolled in and com­
plete the International Typographical Union course of lessons in printing be­
fore being admitted as journeyman members of the union.
“ No oilice shall be entitled to employ an apprentice unless it has the equip­
ment necessary to enable instruction to be given the apprentice in the several
classes of work agreed upon in the contract with the employer to be taught
yearly.
“ Local unions are required to fix the ratio of apprentices to the number
of journeymen regularly employed in any and all offices, but it must be pro­
vided that at least one member of the typographical, aside from the proprietor,
shall be regularly employed in the composing room before an office is entitled to
an apprentice.
“ Local unions shall arrange for scales of wages for apprentices in the third
fourth, and fifth years of their apprenticeship. ”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions and local employers through com­
mittees. If agreement is not arrived at, international officers intercede. All
agreements must be submitted to international president for approval.
Hours of labor.—“ Not more than 48 hours shall constitute a week’s work.
In commercial offices not more than 44. No member of a subordinate union
shall work more than six days a week.”
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; funeral; old-age pension; home for the super­
annuated and sanitarium; trade school.
Official organ.—The International Typographical Journal.
Headquarters.—Indianapolis, Ind.
Organization.—State and district: Arkansas Typographical Conference, East­
ern Pennsylvania District Typographical Unions, Empire Typographical Con­
ference (New York), Florida Typographical Conference, Illinois State Typo­
graphical Unions, Indiana State Conference, Intermountain Typographical Con­
ference (Colorado), Iowa State Allied Printing Council, Michigan Federation
of Typographical Unions, Minnesota Federation of Typographical Unions, Mis­
souri Valley Typographical Conference (Oklahoma), New England Typograph­
ical Conference, Ohio State Conference, Ontario and Quebec Conference, Pa­
cific Slope Typographical Conference, Southwestern Typographical Conference
8 Newspaper writers, when organized, may be chartered under the jurisdiction of the
International Typographical Union. This jurisdiction is not specified in the present
constitution, although it appears in early editions.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

(headquarters, Phoenix, Ariz.), Tennessee-Kentucky Typographical Confer­
ence, Texas State Council, Union Printers’ League of New Jersey, Virginia
State Typographical Association. Western Canada Conference of Typographical
Unions, Western Pennsylvania Typographical Union Conference, Willamette
Valley Typographical Conference (Oregon).
Local unions—classified as printers (p), mailers (m ), German-American
(G-A), newswriters (n). United States—Alabama, 7; Arizona, 6; Arkansas,
7 p, 1 m ; California, 41 p, 4 m ; Colorado, 9 p, 1 m ; Connecticut, 12; Delaware,
1; District of Columbia, 1 p, 1 m ; Florida, 14; Georgia, 8 p , l m ; Idaho, 6;
Illinois, 50 p, 1 m, 1 G-A; Indiana, 29 p, 2 m, 1 G-A; Iowa, 20 p, 1 m ; Kansas,
18 p, 2 m ; Kentucky, 9 p, 1 m, 1 G-A; Louisiana, 5; Maine, 5; Maryland, 4 p,
1 G-A; Massachusetts, 20 p, 2 m ; Michigan, 20 p, 1 m, 1 G-A; Minnesota, 16 p,
1 m, 1 G-A; Mississippi, 5; Missouri, 11 p, 2 m, 1 G-A; Montana, 14 p, 1 m ;
Nebraska, 2 p, 1 m; Nevada, 5; New Hampshire, 4; New Jersey, 20 p, 1 m,
1 G-A; New Mexico, 5; New York, 46 p, 3 m, 3 G-A; North Carolina, 10 p,
2 m ; North Dakota, 6; Ohio, 53 p, 4 m, 2 G-A; Oklahoma, 22 p, 1 m ; Oregon,
12 p, 1 m ; Pennsylvania, 45 p, 1 m, 2 G-A, 2 n ; Rhode Island, 5; South Caro­
lina, 4; South Dakota, 3; Tennessee, 8 p, 1 m ; Texas, 32 p, 4 m ; Utah, 2 p, 1 m ;
Vermont, 3; Virginia, 7; Washington, 14 p, 2 m ; West Virginia, 9; Wisconsin,
17 p, 1 m, 1 G-A, 1 n; Wyoming, 5; Hawaii, 1; Porto Rico, 1. Canada—Al­
berta, 4; British Columbia, 7 p, 1 m; Manitoba, 2; New Brunswick, 2; Nova
Scotia, 2; Ontario, 21 p, 3 m ; Quebec, 4 p, 1 m ; Saskatchewan, 5. Panama—1.
New Foundland—1. Total, 728 p, 50 in, 16 G-A, 3 n.
Membership.—75,000.




CLOTHING
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Boot and Shoe Workers* Union__________________________________________
Fur Workers’ Union of the United States and Canada, International________
Garment Workers* Union, International Ladies*__________________________
Garment Workers of America, United__________________________________
Glove Workers* Union of America, International_________________________
Hat, Cap, and Millinery Workers International Union, Cloth________________
Hatters of North America, United______________________________________
Neckwear Workers (American Federation of Labor, locals)______________
Tailors* Union of America, Journeymen___________________________________
Independent organizations:
Clothing Workers of America, Amalgamated______________________________
Shoe workers* Protective Union_________________________________________

Page
119
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125
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BOOT AND SHOE WORKERS’ UNION
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Boston, Mass., April 10, 1895. The first union of shoe workers
to achieve any degree of permanency was the Federal Society of Journeymen
Oordwainers, which originated in Philadelphia in 1794 and figured in the
famous conspiracy trial of 1806. The initial step toward national organization
occurred in October, 1835, when a convention was held in New York City which
founded the National Cooperative Association of Journeymen Cordwainers.
This organization, of course, was composed of skilled hand workers.
The introduction of shoemaking machinery brought about the formation of
the Knights of St. Crispin, a national organization which undertook to regulate
the use of machinery. This organization flourished remarkably for several
years and instituted in 1868 the Daughters of St. Crispin, the first national
trade organization of women in the country. One of its organizing slogans
was “ Equal pay for equal help.” The decline of the Knights of St. Crispin
and the rise of the Knights of Labor were coincidental and the shoe workers
became a strong factor in the Knights of Labor. By taking women into mem­
bership in their Knights of Labor assemblies they forced a change in the con­
stitution of the order of the Knights of Labor to include woman workers on the
same basis as men.
Local and district assemblies within the Knights of Labor multiplied so
greatly that the shoe workers were granted the right to form a national trade
assembly. This was accomplished in 1884. Not all the shoe workers locals
in the Knights of Labor joined the National Trade Assembly of Shoe Workers,
however. In the conflict with the order which followed an attempt to force
them to do so, the National Trade Assembly withdrew from the Knights of
Labor and formed the Boot and Shoe Workers’ International Union under the
banner of the American Federation of Labor.
In the American Federation of Labor at the time there was another union
of shoe workers, founded in Lynn in 1879, known as the Lasters’ Protective
Union. In 1895 the two old organizations, together with the local organization
which had remained with the Knights of Labor and eight entirely independent
local unions, met in Boston and amalgamated under the name of the Boot and
Shoe Workers Union. The new organization was at once chartered by the
American Federation of Labor as an affiliated union.
A secession movement fostered by the lasters of Lynn resulted in the forma­
tion in September, 1909, of a dual union known as the United Shoe Workers of
America. Another secession movement on the part of turn workers in 1899
brought about the organization of the Shoe Workers’ Protective Union.
As at present constituted the Boot and Shoe Workers’ Union functions
chiefly in the factories making men’s shoes, and is, of course, strongest in the
shops using the union label.
103312°—-26----- 9
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Objects.—“ The purpose of this organization is to organize all shoe workers
in North America into one trade-union, affiliated with the legitimate and
recognized trade-union movement of the United States, Canada, and the world.
We declare against all divided or opposition organizations of wage earners
of the same craft as opposed to true interests of labor and destructive of
success to the labor cause. We invite all shoe workers to unite with us to
the end that we may more effectively regulate wages and conditions of em­
ployment; control apprentices; reduce the hours of labor; abolish convict
contract labor; prohibit the employment of children under the age of 16;
promote the use of our union stamp and all other union labels; assist ana
support all other legitimate trade-unions to the full extent of our power;
and to take such further action in promoting the interests of shoe workers
or other wage earners as may seem desirable from time to time, keeping
pace with industrial development.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The boot and shoe industry.
Government.—1. “ The government of all local unions and members shall be
vested in the general union as the supreme head, to which all matters of
general importance shall be referred, and whose decisions shall be final.
“ The administrative power of the general union when not in session in
convention shall be vested in the general officers” and the general executive
board. The general officers are president, vice president, and secretary-treasurer; the general executive board is composed of the three officers named,
and eight members elected at large.
2. Local unions: “ Each local union shall have power to adopt by-laws gov­
erning matters of local usage, provided such by-laws have been approved by
the general executive board.”
3. Convention: Elects general officers and legislates for organization.
Amendments to constitution may be made either by convention or by refer­
endum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any male or female boot or shoe worker over
16 years of age is eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“Any member of the Boot and Shoe Workers’
Union wishing to learn a particular part of the trade outside the jurisdic­
tion of his own local union shall make application to his local executive
board to intercede in his behalf with the local executive board having juris­
diction over the part of the tracle to be acquired * * *. In no case shall
an application be considered unless the member has been one year in good
standing.”
Agreements.—Union-label agreements negotiated annually by international
officers, approved by local unions. Wage contracts made by locals with in­
dividual firms.
Benefits.—Sick, disability (insurance); death; out-of-work (local); strike;
victimization.
Official organ.—Shoe Workers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 246 Summer Street, Boston, Mass.
Organization.—Joint councils: Chicago, 111.; Brockton, North Adams, and
Whitman, Mass.; St. Paul, Minn.; St. Louis, Mo.; Rochester, N. Y .; Cincinnati,
Ohio; Milwaukee, Wis.; and Montreal and Quebec, Canada.
Locals: United States—Alabama, 1; California, 5; Connecticut, 1; Illinois,
11; Indiana, 1; Iowa, 2; Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 2; Maine, 1; Massachusetts,
53; Minnesota, 2; Missouri, 3; Nebraska, 1; New Hampshire, 6; New York, 8;
Ohio, 8; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 4; Tennessee, 1; Texas, 1; Virginia, 1;
Washington, 1; Wisconsin, 6; Arizona, 1, Porto Rico, 2. Canada—British
Columbia, 1; Ontario, 11; Quebec, 3. Newfoundland—1. Total, 140.
Membership.—Not reported; Amercian Federation of Labor voting strength,
36,200.

CLOTHING WORKERS OF AMERICA, AMALGAMATED
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in October, 1914, at Nashville, Tenn. The Amalgamated Clothing
Workers of America grew out of a split in the United Garment Workers of
America, at the convention of that organization held in 1914 at Nashville.
When the convention met a considerable number of delegates were disfran­




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chised and denied seats on the floor. They withdrew to another hall in the
same city and held a rump convention, electing officers and transacting business
in the name of the United Garment Workers.
Almost immediately after the close of the Nashville conventions a lockout
occurred in Baltimore, in one of the largest garment shops in the country.
Still acting as officers of the United Garment Workers the general executive
board of the seceding faction carried the Baltimore fight to a successful con­
clusion, which resulted in a greatly increased membership under the secession
banner.
Litigation on the part of the original organization against the use of the
name “ United Garment Workers of America ” by the seceders led to the adop­
tion, at a special convention held in New York City in December, 1914, of the
name “ Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America,” and complete dissociation
from the parent body. Since then it has functioned as an independent indus­
trial union.
Objects.—“To improve and maintain conditions of labor among the men’s
clothing workers.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of men’s and boy’s ready-to-wear
clothing.
Government.—“ All legislative powers shall be reserved to the Amalgamated
Clothing Workers of America duly convened in session (except those allowed
under the initiative and referendum); its executive and judicial powers, when
not in session, shall be vested in the general executive board.”
General executive board consists of president, secretary-treasurer, and 13
elected members.
2. Joint Board: Composed of the locals in a city or locality where two or
more local unions exist; “ shall transact all such business for the local unions
as may be provided in its by-laws.”
3. Local union:. “ Each local union may make its own by-laws, provided they
do not conflict with the constitution or by-laws of the organization.”
4. Convention: Meets biennially; enacts legislation and nominates general
officers. Election of officers and amendments to constitution by referendum.
Qualifications for Membership.—Any person over the age of 16 employed in
the clothing industry, except foremen and forewomen, is eligible to member­
ship. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local joint boards or local unions with local
employers, either individually or in association.
Terms of agreements vary greatly, but all provide machinery for mediation
or arbitration of disputes, through the “ impartial chairman ” system.
Supplementary agreement entered into by the Clothing Manufacturers of
Chicago and the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America provides unem­
ployment insurance. Similar agreements in other centers executed but not yet
in operation.
Benefits.—Local only; sick and death. '
Official organ. — Advance (English); Fortschritt (Yiddish); II Lavoro
(Italian) ; Prace (Bohemian) ; Industrial Democracy (Polish) ; Darbas (Lithu­
anian) ; Rabochy Golos (Russian).
• Headquarters.—No. 31 Union Square, New York City, N. Y.
Organization.—Joint boards: Baltimore, Md.; Boston, Mass.; Chicago, 111.;
Cleveland, Ohio; Cincinnati, Ohio; Connecticut (headquarters, Bridgeport);
Montreal, Canada; Milwaukee, W is.; New York City, N. Y .; Philadelphia, Pa.;
Rochester, N. Y .; Shirtmakers (New Y ork); Toronto, Canada; Twin City,
Minn.
Local unions—shop is the unit of organization, under supervision of shop
committee and shop chairman; local unions are formed on basis either of occu­
pation (cutters, tailors, pressers, etc.) or nationality and language, but in
small centers all members belong to same local union: United States—Cali­
fornia, 2; Connecticut, 2; Illinois, 11; Indiana, 1; Kentucky. 1; Maryland, 14;
Massachusetts, 11; Michigan, 1; Minnesota, 4; Missouri, 2; New Jersey, 4;
New York, 45; Ohio. 5; Pennsylvania, 9; Wisconsin, 2. Canada^Ontario, 9;
Quebec, 7. Total, 130.
Membership.—150,000.




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FUR WORKERS’ UNION OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA,
INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City, June 16, 1913.
Objects.—“ For the purpose of promoting unity of sentiment and action among
those employed at the fur craft in the United States and Canada, and joining
them closely together for mutual protection, we shall endeavor to further our
interests and promote the following: To thoroughly organize and elevate
the fur craft; to establish a perfect apprenticeship system; to establish uni­
form wages for the same class of work regardless of sex; to reduce the hours
of labor; to substitute arbitration for strikes wherever it is possible to do
so; to seek the abolition of sweatshop and child labor; to promote the use
of the union label as the sole guaranty of union-made furs; to support the
union label of all other bona fide trade-unions, and assist all trade-unions
to the full extent of our power.” (Preamble of the constitution.)
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The international union shall have jurisdiction over the
following branches of the fur trade: Fur cutters, fur squarers, fur operators,
fur nailers, fur finishers and liners, fur ironers and examiners, fur beaters
and cleaners, fur pointers, fur-glove makers, fur-cap makers, fur-band makers,
fur-persian makers, fur-skull makers, fur-rug makers, fur-muff bed makers,
fur head and tail makers, fur trimmings and fur pieces, fur garments of
all descriptions, fur-hand dressers, fur-hand shavers, fur-machine shavers* furmachine fleshers, fur-floor workers, fur dyers, fur hand and machine pickers
and shearers, fur scrapers, fur combers, fur dyeing, of all descriptions; hatters*
fur workers, sheepskin workers, sheepskin tanners, sheepskin dyers, featherboa workers.”
Government.—1. “ Government of all local unions and members shall be vested
in this general union as the supreme head, to which all matters of general
importance shall be referred and whose decisions shall be final. The ad­
ministrative powers when not in session in convention shall be vested in the
general executive board.”
General executive board composed of general president, general secretarytreasurer, and 11 vice presidents.
2. District councils: “ A district council shall be formed in all cities or
vicinities where two or more local unions exist, such councils to have juris­
diction over all local unions within a radius of 25 miles, and shall formulate
such rules and regulations as may be necessary, but which must not be in
conflict with the international constitution and by-laws.”
3. Local unions: “ Each local union shall have power to frame its own local
by-laws, which must in no way conflict with the constitution of the inter­
national.”
4. Convention: Meets biennially; elects general officers and legislates for
organization.
Constitutional amendments by convention or by initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person to be admitted to membership in
a local union must be a fur worker, competent to command the minimum
wage.” Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“Any local union may take into membership
apprentices upon temporary union cards issued for not less than six months.
* ♦ * We favor the adoption of a legal apprenticeship system, the parents
binding the boy to remain at least 3 years, and the employer binding himself
on his part to teach the fur-working trade, but such employer shall not have
more than 1 apprentice for every 10 journeymen in his employ. Not more
than three apprentices shall be allowed in any shop.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions or local joint boards, generally with
manufacturers’ association where there is more than one employer. Gen­
eral policies embodied in agreements are determined by the international.
Contracts cover weekly wages and piece-price lists; hours; overtime regula­
tions and rates; apprentice rules; distribution of work; shop sanitation; and
adjustment of grievances (conciliation boards). Two-year duration.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; funeral.
Official organ.—The Fur Worker.
Egjad^uarters,—No. 9 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, N. Y.




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Organization.—Joint boards: New York joint board; joint board of the furdressing industry, New York; joint board fur cap and trimming makers, New
York; Twin Cities (Minneapolis and St. Paul); Joint board of Montreal.
Local unions (separated in branches in New York City; otherwise m ixed):
United States—California, 1; Connecticut, 1: District of Columbia, 1; Illi­
nois, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Minnesota, 3; New Jersey, 4; New York, 14; Penn­
sylvania, 2. Canada—Ontario, 3; Quebec, 2; Manitoba, 1. Total, 34.
Membership.—.12,000.

GARMENT WORKERS’ UNION, INTERNATIONAL LADIES’
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City in 1900. The earliest organization among
workers in the women’s garment trardes were shop unions and a Knights of
Labor assembly organized in 1882. Combinations of the various shop unions
were local and sporadic throughout the eighties, usually under the leadership
of the Knights of Labor. In May, 1892, delegates from the organized cloak
makers of five cities met in New York and formed the International Cloak
Makers’ Union of America. This organization, however, was short-lived and
a period of factional strife and dual unionism divided along national and
political lines followed. As a result of the chaotic conditions thus produced,
many of the organizations became locals of the United Garment Workers.
General strikes in 1894-95 demoralized organization among the workers in the
women’s garment trades and for the next five years the only union which re­
tained any vitality was a group of cloak makers who went by the name of the
United Brotherhood of Cloak Makers of New York. Out of this brotherhood,
after a convention held in New York on June 3, 1900, attended by delegates
from unions of various branches of the industry, grew the International Ladies’
Garment Workers’ Union. This new organization was immediately chartered
by the American Federation of Labor as an affiliated international union.
Recent activities of the International Ladies' Garment Workers’ Union out­
side the economic field include the development of an educational department,
with active participation in Brookwood Labor College, and the maintenance
of a health center for medical examination and treatment and of two vacation
homes.
Objects.—"The object of the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union
shall be to obtain and preserve for all workers engaged in the ladies’ garment
industry just and reasonable conditions of work with respect to wages, work­
ing hours, and other terips of employment; to secure sanitary surroundings at
their places of work and humane treatment on the part of the employers; to
aid needy workers in the industry; to cultivate friendly relations between
them; and generally to improve their material and intellectual standards. Such
objects shall be accomplished through negotiations and collective agreements
with employers; the dissemination of knowledge by means of publications and
lecture courses; through concerted efforts to organize the unorganized workers
in all branches of the industry; and through all means and methods custom­
arily employed by organized workers; to maintain and better their standards
of living.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Women's and children’s garment making trade.
Government.—1. General executive board composed of president, secretarytreasurer, and 15 vice presidents, 9 of whom shall be residents of New York
City, comprises the executive and judicial power of the organization and exer­
cises “general supervision.”
2. Joint boards: When two or more locals of each branch of the trade exist
in any one city or locality, joint boards must be formed consisting of an equal
number of delegates from each local. “The main object of the joint board
shall be to attend the complaints of members against employers; to supervise
or control union shop; to organize nonunion shops and to see to it that har­
mony prevails among the local unions affiliated with it. Adjustments by the
joint boards of disputes with employers shall be binding upon the local unions.”
3. Local unions: Subordinate but “with power to enact and enforce such
local by-laws as may be considered necessary.” “Members of local unions are
primarily members of the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union and
subject to its orders, rulings, and decisions.”
4. Convention: Meets biennially; enacts legislation and elects general offi­
cers. Constitutional amendment by convention only. (No referendum.)




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Qualifications for membership.—Any worker engaged in the ladies* garment
industry is eligible to membership, except foremen, forewomen, and anyone
having the power to hire and discharge. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Generally negotiated by joint boards with manufacturers* asso­
ciations. Contracts call for 44-hour week, union shop, and some system of
adjustment of grievances.
Union label under direction of local label secretary.
Benefits.—Unemployment insurance.
Official organ.—Justice, Giustizia and Gereclitigkeit.
Headquarters.—No. 3 West Sixteenth Street, New York City.
Organization.—Local unions organized 011 basis of the different subdivisions
of the trade, such as cloak makers, dressmakers, designers, embroidery work­
ers, etc.; in the largest cities these may in turn be divided into nationality
groups: United States—California, 2; Connecticut, 8; Illinois, 8; Maryland, 1;
Massachusetts, 8; Missouri, 2; New Jersey, 12; New York, 34; Ohio, 9 ;
Pennsylvania, 7; Washington 1; Wisconsin, 1. Canada—Manitoba, 1; Ontario,
4 ; Quebec, 6. Total, 104.
Membership.—87,000.

GARMENT WORKERS OF AMERICA, UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City on April 10, 1891. Prior to 1891 garment
workers were variously organized, under the Knights of Labor, in directly
affiliated American Federation of Labor local unions, and in independent
groups not identified with either movement. The American Federation of
Labor locals and some of the independents came together in convention in
New York City on April 10, 1891, and organized into the United Garment
Workers of America. The new union immediately became affiliated to the
American Federation of Labor.
Two years later an extensive lockout of the cutter members of the union
was undertaken by the clothing manufacturers of New York and vicinity.
Cutters organized in Knights of Labor assemblies were offered the jobs of
the locked-out union men. Instead of accepting, however, the Knights of
Labor men joined the new craft union. Shortly afterwards the tailors in the
Knights of Labor took similar action.
With the rise of special-order work in garment factories a new organization
sprang up, beginning in Chicago, known as the Special Order Clothingmakers* Union. After an independent existence of two years it was chartered
by the American Federation of Labor as an affiliated national union in 1902.
The United Garment Workers protested the infringement of jurisdiction and
the convention of the American Federation of Labor, upholding the United
Garment Workers, ordered amalgamation of the clothing unions. This was
accomplished in 1903 by agreement between the two unions.
Shirt and collar makers had been since 1900 organized under the Shirt
Waist and Laundry Workers* International Union. In 1909 jurisdictional
lines were readjusted and the clothing makers in that union were transferred
to the United Garment Workers.
Discord within the United Garment Workers* ranks culminated in a split
during the convention of 1914. A considerable number of delegates with­
drew and, holding a rump convention, organized the Amalgamated Clothing
Workers.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of men’s, boy’s, and children’s readyto-wear clothing, special-order made-to-measure clothing, men’s rainproof
clothing, bath robes, men’s bathing suits, all kinds of aprons and white goods,
overalls, trousers, rompers, play suits, work shirts, dress shirts, nainsook
and linen underwear, collars and cuffs.
Government.— General executive board, composed of president (who shall be
chief organizer), secretary, treasurer, auditor, three trustees, and four other
elected members, exercises “ all judicial and executive powers of the organi­
zation when not in session” in convention. When the general executive
board is not in session the president “ is the chief executive officer with full
power as such,” subject to the approval of the general executive board and
general convention.




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2. District councils: Composed of three or more local unions in a city
or locality. “ District councils shall transact business pertaining to the wel­
fare of the various local unions, such as organizing, label propaganda, and
adjust all differences before same are referred to the general executive
board.”
3. Local unions: Local unions have power to enact by-laws for local gov­
ernment, subject to the approval of the general executive board.
4. Convention: Held every five years,4 enacts legislation and elects general
officers. Constitutional amendments by convention and referendum or by
initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Candidates, male or female, to be admitted
to membership in a local union * * * shall be not less than 16 years
of age,” shall be actually engaged in some branch of the garment-making in­
dustry covered by United Workers’ jurisdiction, and shall not be “ a member
of any other organization of the trade.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—One apprentice allowed in each factory for the
first cutter and one additional apprentice for every additional three cutters.
Three years’ apprenticeship in the cutting branch.
Agreements.—An agreement, covering about 25 per cent of the membership,
is made annually by a committee of the United Garment Workers’ general
office and a committee of the Union Made Garment Manufacturers’ Associa­
tion. This contract calls for the union label, sets prices, hours, and shop
conditions, and provides for adjustment of grievances.
Other agreements are negotiated locally, generally with individual em­
ployers, and provide for price committees, which set piece rates.
Benefits.— Strike and victimization; death; sick (by locals).
Official organ.—The Garment Worker.
Headquarters.—Bible House, New York City.
Organization.—District councils: Boston, Mass.; Buffalo, N. Y .; Chicago,
111.; Cincinnati, Ohio; Newark, N. J .; New York City, N. Y .; Philadelphia
and Pittsburgh, Pa.; St. Louis, Mo.; Syracuse, N. Y .; Toronto, Ontario;
Utica, N. Y.
Local unions (cutters and tailors in separate unions in large centers):
United States—Alabama, 2; California, 6; Colorado, 2; District of Columbia,
1; Georgia, 2; Illinois, 16; Indiana, 9; Iowa, 3; Kansas, 3; Kentucky, 3;
Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 4; Massachusetts, 5; Michigan, 4; Minnesota, 3;
Missouri, 8; Nebraska, 1; New Hampshire, 4; New Jersey, 5; New York, 36;
Ohio, 16; Oklahoma, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 19; Tennessee, 1; Texas, 7;
Utah, 2; Virginia, 2; Vermont, 3; Washington, 2; Wisconsin, 4. Canada—
Alberta, 1; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 8. Total, 187.
membership.—80,000.

GLOVE WORKERS’ UNION OF AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Washington, D. C., on December 17, 1902, by delegates from a
few local trade-unions of kid and heavy leather glove workers directly affiliated
to the American Federation of Labor. When chartered as an international
organization it was granted jurisdiction over wool gloves and mittens, and
with the development of the manufacture of canvas work gloves the field was
extended to the entire industry.
Objects.—“ To thoroughly organize our craft; to regulate wages and condi­
tions of employment; to establish uniform wages for the same class of work
regardless of sex; to control apprentices; to reduce the hours of labor; to
abolish contract and convict labor; to prohibit the employment of children
under 16; to promote the use of the union label as the sole and only guaranty
of union-made gloves.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of gloves and mittens of cloth or
leather.
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of president, secretary-treasurer,
and seven vice presidents, has general supervision and authority.
*From 1891 to 1904, conventions were held annually with tho exception of 1893 and
1896; from 1904 to 1914 biennially; and since 1914 quadrennially, but constitution was
amended in 1922 to provide for quinquennial conventions.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

2. Local unions “ shall have privilege of adopting by-laws governing matters
of local usage, provided they do not conflict with international constitution.”
3. Convention: Biennial; enacts legislation and elects general officers. Con­
stitutional amendments by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person not an employer, superintendent,
foreman or forewoman, who is actually engaged in the occupation of making
gloves or mittens, is eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Controlled by local unions, in so far as the ap­
prentice system obtains.
Agreements.—Shop and wage agreements are negotiated by officers of local
unions with local employers, subject to approval of the international union.
Union-label contract is negotiated and signed by the international. Both
agreements expire at the same time.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout (by special assessment).
Official organ.—Monthly bulletin.
Headquarters.—No. 311 South Ashland Avenue, Chicago, 111.
Organization. Local unions only: California, 1; Illinois, 1; Minnesota, 1;
Missouri, 1; New York, 1; Ohio, 1; Washington, 1. Total, 7.
Membership.—Not reported; voting strength in American Federation of
Labor, 300.

HAT, CAP, AND MILLINERY WORKERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION,
CLOTH
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City in 1901 as the United Cloth Hat and Cap
Makers of North America. Nine independent local unions were represented
at the organizing convention. The following year the union affiliated with the
American Federation of Labor.
Jurisdiction was extended to the millinery trade in 1903. Extensive organ­
ization of millinery workers began in 1909 and lasted several years, during
which time agreements with the organized employers were formed which ma­
terially improved conditions in the trade. In 1916 the United Hatters pro­
tested against the control of the millinery trade by the United Cloth Hat and
Cap Makers, and two years later the dispute resulted in the expulsion of the
Cloth Hat and Cap Makers from the American Federation of Labor.
The union continued to function successfully in both the cap and millinery
trades, and in 1923 the United Hatters withdrew their claim to jurisdiction
over the millinery trade by agreement with the United Cloth Hat and Cap
Makers of North America retaining two small locals in that branch of the
industry and granting complete jurisdiction over all other millinery workers
to the rival organization.
The cap makers reaffiliated with the American Federation of Labor at
the 1924 convention, with its field of operation clearly recognized and defined
in the new title, Cloth Hat, Cap, and Millinery Workers’ International Union.
Objects.—“ To improve our conditions and secure by united action our due
share in the products of our labor; to establish a shorter workday; to elevate
our moral and intellectual standard and develop our class consciousness by
means of propaganda and the press; to cooperate with the national and uni­
versal labor movement for the final emancipation of the wage earner and
for the establishment of the cooperative commonwealth. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of men’s, women’s, and children’s cloth
hats and caps, and women’s headgear made of cloth fabric, straw, combinations,
varieties or novelties.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of general president, sec­
retary-treasurer, and 11 other members, “ not less than 4 of whom shall be
elected from locals outside New York City,” exercises “ executive and judi­
cial power ” between conventions.
2. Local unions: “ To the subordinate unions is conceded the right to make
all necessary laws for local self-government which do not conflict with the
laws of the international organization.”
3. Convention: Meets biennially; enacts legislation and elects general offi­
cers. Constitutional amendments adopted by convention must be ratified by
referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any cloth hat or cap maker or straw hat
and millinery worker, male or female, above 16 years of age, knowing the




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trade, is eligible to membership. Foremen, forewomen, and other persons hav­
ing the power to hire and discharge are ineligible.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ When a local is short in workers of any of the
branches of the trade, the general executive board shall have the right to
grant 10 per cent apprentices. * ♦ * A father has the right to teach his
son or daughter the trade.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by committee of local union or local joint board,
with manufacturers, either individually or associated. Agreements cover
minimum wage scales, hours, overtime stipulations and rates, sanitation
and general shop conditions, arbitration of disputes, and unemployment
insurance.
Hours: Constitutional 44-hour week. Five-day week in union shops.
Benefits.—Strike; sick; tuberculosis ($50 flat payment).
Ofilcial organ.—The Headgear Worker.
Headquarters.—No. 621 Broadway, New York City.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—California, 3; Colorado, 1;
Connecticut, 2; Illinois, 2; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 1;
Minnesota, 2; Missouri, 3; New York, 13; Ohio, 2; Pennsylvania, 4 ; Wis­
consin, 1. Canada—Ontario, 2; Quebec, 2. Total, 40.
Membership.—11,000.

HATTERS OF NORTH AMERICA, UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1896. The earliest organization of the hatters was the Hatters’
Union of Danbury, Conn., Organized in 1810. Various unions were formed in
the early half of the nineteenth century, which by 1854 had amalgamated
into two national unions—the National Hat Makers and the International
Hat Finishers. In 1896 these two organizations consolidated and became the
United Hatters of North America.
Objects.—Not declared.
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—The making and finishing of hats, which shall “ include
all work of whatsoever nature except the transporting of hats from one
department to another and such work as is generally known as bugger-lugging.
“ Finishing will comprise the following: Pouncing on lathe by hand or
machine, winding, rounding, pressing, blocking, squaring, packing, wiring,
leuring, curling, top-ironing, planing, setting, and any work done by hand
or machine in curling or finishing departments, and foremen of the same.
“ Making will comprise coning, slipping, hardening, sizing and second sizing,
scratching, brushing and clipping, shaving and pouncing, blocking, stiffening,
clearing, squaring, and galvanizing, pinning out of all kinds by hand or ma­
chine in making department, and foremen of same.
“ Trimming shall comprise trimming, banding, binding, snapping, tack­
ing, stitching, welting, making and putting in linings, fitting, joining and
sewing in leathers, either by hand or machine; foremen, forewomen and
assistants.
“ Women shall make all women’s headgear. Straw operating all ladies’
hats made of materials all straw, sewing, wiring, binding, lining, wire-frame
making, French edging and all hand sewing.
“ Wool-hat finishing will comprise the finishing of children’s, boys’ and men’s
soft and stiff hats, also finishing of ladies’ soft and stiff hats.
“ Panama: Graders, weighers-out, bleachers, sizers, blockers, pressers
by hand or machine; fiangers, sandbaggers, curling, welting, wiring, stitching,
setting, fixing, schmearing, brushing, and packing, and the passers and fore­
men of same.
“ Straw (men’s h ats): Sizing, welting, blocking, pressing, by hand or
machine; washing, squaring, finishing, stamping, polishing, setting, packing,
passers and the foremen of same.
“ Cloth (ladies’ h ats): Cutting and weighing out, blocking, stamping and pre­
paring for the stamps, steaming, brushing, opening, rounding, French edging,
packing and the foremen of same.
“ Straw and cloth hats (female w ork): Operating, cutting, weighing out,
wiring, stitching, rounding, opening, French edging, lining, banding, trimming,
passers and the forelady of same.”
Government.—1. Board of directors and general executive board. The board
of directors is composed of 14 members elected by the locals. Three members



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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIOKS

of the board of directors, with the president and secretary-treasurer, constitute
the general executive board.
“ The president shall have general supervision over the affairs of the associa­
tion. * ♦ ♦ Any question passed by the general executive board shall be
subject to appeal to the board of directors.
* * * At any time the wel­
fare of the trade may demand it the board of directors shall have power to
make such laws or amendments to existing laws as will meet the wants of
the occasion,” such laws to be ratified by referendum within 60 days.
2. Local associations: Subordinate, but autonomy not defined. A percentage
of earnings is collected by shop stewards from membership and remitted to
association headquarters.
3. Referendum: General officers elected by referendum, and subject to recall.
4. Convention: Held every four years.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person over the age of 21 working at the
hat-making trade is eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ To constitute a journeyman a boy shall be
required to serve a regular apprenticeship of at least 3 consecutive years in a
fair shop, and in all cases until he is 21 years of age. * * * Any boy in
order to be eligible to be registered as an apprentice to learn the hatting trade
must be able to speak the English language and also have a fair practical
knowledge of it.
“Apprentices shall be distributed throughout the various departments of a
factory in proportion to the number of men employed in each department.
“All shops under our jurisdiction shall be allowed apprentices in the follow­
ing manner: Shops employing 10 men shall be entitled to 1 boy, and 1 boy
more for each additional 10 men. In cases of shops having less than 10 men
the local association shall have discretion in the matter and shall register
boys or not in such shops as they think fit.”
Agreements.—“ Each shop shall regulate its own prices with the consent of
the local executive board.” Bills of prices shall be made for one year only.
Forty-four hour week and minimum wage for week workers by constitutional
requirement, but “ members of this association shall not work by the day, by
the week, or by the hour at anything the nature of which is such that a piece
price may be set upon it.”
Union label under control of general executive board and shop stewards.
Benefits.—Strike and death.
Official organ.—The Hatter.
Headquarters.—Bible House, New York City.
Organization.—Local unions only: California, 2; Connecticut, 9; Illinois, 2 ;
Massachusets, 2; New Jersey, 6; New York, 6; Pennsylvania, 2. Total, 29.
Membership.—11,500.

NECKWEAR WORKERS
One craft in the clothing industry, neckwear, is organized in directly af­
filiated American Federation of Labor local unions, of which there are 6,
in Chicago, Boston, St. Louis, and New York City, with an approximate mem­
bership of 1,000.

SHOE WORKERS9 PROTECTIVE UNION
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Haverhill, Mass., in 1899, by secession of the Haverhill turn
workers from the Boot and Shoe Workers* Union. It was a craft union until
1917, when it extended to other branches of the industry, chiefly by absorption
of a number of small independent unions of various crafts.
The United Shoe Workers, also a secession dual union, was composed chiefly
of lasters. It was founded in 1909 and by 1913 had expanded greatly, due
largely to the absorption of a number of small independent locals among which
were several unions of cutters or stitchers, still organized under the Knights
of Labor.
At a convention held in Boston in 1924 the Shoe Workers’ Protective Union
and the United Shoe Workers merged into one organization under the title of
the former older union.
A third group called the Amalgamated Shoe Workers of America was organ­
ized in 1922 by scattered locals of various crafts in Massachusetts and New
York. This group has been gradually absorbed by the Shoe Workers’ Protective



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129

Union, which recently took over the New York and Chicago locals of the
amalgamated. The transfer of these two unions left nothing of the Amalga­
mated Shoe Workers outside of Lynn, Mass., where it maintains four craft
locals with a substantial membership. There still remains a group of organized
shoe workers independent of both the Boot and Shoe Workers’ Union and the
Shoe Workers’ Protective Union. This is the American Shoe Workers Union,
with a membership of 6,000 in Brooklyn and New York City. Other organiza­
tions of shoe workers not included in any of these groups are entirely local in
character.
Objects.—“ Workers must organize in a labor union democratic in form,
uncompromising in principle, and energetic in action. We recognize the neces­
sity which confronts the shoe workers of organizing into local, national, or
preferably one consolidated organization of the entire industry and we pledge
our aid and assistance to any movement having such object in view which will
not prove injurious to ourselves.
Territorial jurisdiction,—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of shoes “ in whole or in part.”
Government.—General officers are president, secretary-treasurer, and a gen­
eral counsel of nine elected members. The president “ shall be the chief execu­
tive officer of the union.”
2. Local unions: Largely autonomous. Constitution and by-laws subject to
approval of general counsel.
3. Initiative, referendum, and recall. Nomination and election of general
officers by referendum. Legislation and amendments to constitution by initia­
tive and referendum.
4. Convention by referendum call only.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person over the age of 16 engaged in the
manufacture of boots or shoes and component parts thereof, is eligible to mem­
bership. Male and female membership. Eligibility of foremen, forewomen, and
supervisors, to membership is discretional with the local unions.
Apprenticeship regulations^—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally with individual manufacturers or manu­
facturers’ associations. Agreements call for union shop; for an eight-hour
week; overtime rates; and provision for a board of arbitration.
Benefits.—Strike and death.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 683 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, Mass.
Organization.—Local unions only: Illinois, 2; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts,
27; Missouri, 7; New Hampshire, 3 ; New Jersey, 1; New York, 11; Pennsyl­
vania, 4; Wisconsin, 1. Total, 57.
Membership.—16,000.

TAILORS’ UNION OF AMERICA, JOURNEYMEN
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1883. Historically the organization of
tailors began before the nineteenth century. Three unions existed in 1806,
one of which, that in Boston, celebrated a centennial of continuous existence
in 1906. The first efforts at consolidation and national organization were made
in 1865, when the Journeymen Tailors' National Trades Union was formed in
Philadelphia by representatives from seven cities. This organization lived
until 1876, when it disintegrated.
The various local unions comprising it continued to function, however, and
at the instigation of the Philadelphia union they were again brought together
in convention in that city in 1883, when the Journeymen Tailors’ National Union
<of the United States was organized.
The introduction and development of the factory system in clothing manu­
facture, with its cheaper production and less skilled workmen, produced a
second organization known as the Tailors’ Progressive Union, composed of
what was known as “ shop tailors.” This organization belonged to the American
Federation of Labor, as did the Journeymen Tailors. It favored amalgamation
with the older union in order to control both kinds of work.
The custom tailors, however, feared the consequences of lowering craft stand­
ards sufficiently to let in the shop tailors and refused to amalgamate with or
to take into membership the ready-made clothing workers. Thereafter,
through devious steps, the United Garment Workers grew out of the Tailors’
.Progressive Union.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

By agreement these two organizations, both affiliated to the American Federa­
tion of Labor, kept their jurisdiction fairly clear by drawing the line between
the standardized factory product and the individual made-to-measure product.
At one time this agreement also involved the selling price of the garment.
But difficulties arose with the introduction of “ special order” tailoring
in the garment factories. That system employed skilled tailors and threatened
the whole merchant tailoring trade. Nevertheless, 011 three different occasions—
in 1899, in 1901, and in 1903—the Journeymen Tailors rejected in referendum
the proposal to admit the special-order tailors to membership. The attitude
remained one of craft caste. In 1900 the special-order clothing workers formed
a union of their own, which first affiliated to the American Federation of Labor
as an entity and three years later amalgamated with the United Garment
Workers. This left the Journeymen Tailors with a fast disappearing field of
operation, especially in smaller cities and towns.
In 1909 the Journeymen Tailors' convention voted to extend its jurisdiction to
“ all workers engaged in the manufacture of legitimate custom tailoring, no
matter what system of work is used.” This jurisdiction was never specifically
granted by the American Federation of Labor, and for four years the matter
was not pressed, although amalgamation of all the unions in the garment
industry was proposed and discussed during those years in various conferences
of the needle trades unions.
With a more radical element in control of the union, the 1913 convention
declared for industrial unionism and control of the tailoring trade, and
changed the name of the organization to Tailors' Industrial Union.
This move resulted at once in a clash with the Ladies' Garment Workers’
International Union and the United Garment Workers and the refusal of
the American Federation of Labor to recognize either the claim or the new
title.
When the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America launched its movement
for industrial organization of the clothing industry in 1914, the executive board
of the tailors’ union submitted to its members a proposal to become part of the
new organization under an agreement drawn up by the executive officers of
both unions. This proposal was approved by referendum vote of the tailors’
union.
At the convention of the Amalgamated Clothing Workers in 1915 the execu­
tive board of the tailors’ union constituted part of the steering committee,
and the secretary of the tailors’ union was elected to the secretaryship of
the amalgamated body.
Meanwhile a disaffected element which from the first had protested the hasty
nature of the referendum on amalgamation was rallying a following, under the
leadership of the Chicago local, to demand a reconsideration. It succeeded
in forcing the issue on the grounds that the membership did not realize that
they were identifying themselves with an outlaw organization. The second
referendum proposal, worded so as to reaffirm the old craft jurisdiction,
allegiance to the American Federation of Labor, and repudiation of the alliance
with the Amalgamated Clothing Workers, carried by a substantial margin.
Consequently, by the end of 1915, the Journeymen Tailors' Union had
returned to its former status as a craft union, in recognized standing with
the American Federation of Labor, and resumed its original title. It remains
an organization of skilled men in the steadily diminishing field of merchant
tailoring.
An extension of jurisdiction to cover cleaning, dyeing, and pressing was
granted the Journeymen Tailors' Union by the American Federation of
Labor in 1912. In 1916 this had occasioned a jurisdictional controversy with
the laundry workers, since laundries had added cleaning processes to their
line of work. This was adjusted in 1919 by an arbitration decision which gave
to the Laundry Workers' International Union those cleaners, dyers, and pressers
who were employed in laundries.
Later the Chicago local of cleaners and dyers withdrew from the Journey­
men Tailors’ Union and sought admission to the American Federation of Labor
as a directly affiliated union. The decision of the executive council of the
Federation in that connection was that because “ of the expansion of the
cleaning and dyeing industry to embrace work on products such as furs, gloves,
ladies' garments, shoes, carpets, etc., coming under the jurisdiction of various
national and international unions,” it is “ for the best interests of all con­
cerned” that unions of workers engaged in cleaning, dyeing, and pressing
should be directly affiliated American Federation of Labor locals.







CLOTHING

131

In consequence, while the Journeymen Tailors’ Union still daims jurisdiction,
and has some locals of cleaners, dyers, and pressers, workers of this class are
also organized in directly affiliated American Federation of Labor locals In
some instances, and hold membership in the Laundry Workers’ International
Union in others.
Objects.—**The objects of the Journeymen Sailors* Union of America are,
namely: To elevate the industry, to encourage a high standard of skill, to
cultivate friendship and fraternity between the workers in the industry, to
assist each other to secure employment, to secure the weekly system of
employment, free shops, limit4 he hours of labor, and to use our influence with
the lawmakers of each State and Province to secure the passage of laws that
will prohibit sweating and Jtobtne work, to secure adequate pay for our labor,
to assist each other in csse of need and distress; and by all honorable and
just means to elevate ihe mofal, social, and intellectual conditions of our
members and all wajss workers;”
Territorial jurisdirtion.—United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—Custom tailoring.
^Government.—l. General officers; General secretary-treasurer, assistant secre­
tary ; genera? executive, board of five members. Secretary-treasurer is the
executive bead of the organization. General executive board, elected by unions
in and c£6ut headquarters, is a trial and appeal board.
2. LJcal unions: Largely self-governing; autonomy not defined in consti­
tution.
3. Cpnvention: Held every four years. Legislation by convention, initiative
and referendum: constitutional amendments by convention ratified by referen­
dum. Secretary-treasurer elected by referendum.
ftu&Mcations for membership.—All workers engaged in the custom tailoring
fntde, in cleaning, dyeing and pressing, and bushelmen working in the cloth­
ing industry, are eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“An apprentice is one who has^no previous ex­
perience at tailoring^and at the expiration of three months* they shall become
members of the union. The local union shall regulate the number of appren­
tices allowed in ea^Ti shop and wages of the apprentices.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, subject to approval of the general
executive board, but must contain “ a provision * * * demanding day or
week work, free sanitary workshops adequately equipped as to tools, light, heat,
ventilation, etc. and a limitation o f hours.”
Hours: Not to exceed eight per working-day; time and a half for overtime,
double time for Sundays and holidays. (Constitutional requirement)
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; victimization; sick and disability; funeral.
Official organ.—The Tailor.
Headquarters.—No. 6753 Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 2; Arizona 1 *
Arkansas, 1 ; California, 14; Colorado, 3; Connecticut, 1 ; District of Columbia!
1; Florida, 2; Georgia, 3; Illinois. .151 Indiana, 5; Iowa, 8 ; lCnn^c 5 • Ken­
tucky, 2; Louisiana, 2; MarylandrdtrMassachusetts, 6 ; Michigan, 6 ; Minnesota,
3; Missouri, 5; Montana, 2; Nebraska, 2; New York, 8 ; North Carolina, 2North Dakota, 1; Ohio, 10; Oklahoma, 3; Oregon, 2 ; Pennsylvania, 13; Rhode
Island, 2; South Carolina, 2; South Dakota, 1 ; Tennessee, 4; Texas, 5 ; Utah
2; Virginia, 5; Washington, 8 ; West Virginia, 4; Wisconsin, 13; Wyoming, l!
Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 2; Ontario, 7 ; Quebec, 1 . Newfound­
land, 1. Total, 189.
Membership.—9,200.




fc

TEXTILES

Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Textile Workers of America, United_________________ - ________ _________
Independent organizations:
Federated Textile Union--------------------------------------------------------------------------Cotton Mule Spinners_______________________________________________
Lace Operatives, Chartered Society of the Amalgamated-----------------------Tapestry Carpet Weavers____________________________________________
Textile Operatives, American Federation of-------— ----------------------------

Page
133
134
134
135
135
135

Organization in textile manufacture is industrial in character, with craft
divisions, the general organizations being essentially federations of craft unions
within the industry.
The largest textile organization is the United Textile Workers of America;
which is affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. Within this organi­
zation is a craft division, hosiery knitting, the workers of which are organized
in local unions which, while chartered by the United Textile Workers, func­
tion autonomously and more or less independently as the American Federation
of Full Fashioned Hosiery Workers.
The Federated Textile Union, an independent organization, is composed of
the American Federation of Textile Operatives, the Amalgamated Lace Oper­
atives, the Cotton Mule Spinners, and the Tapestry Carpet Weavers.
The American Federation of Textile Operatives is the largest of these organi­
zations, and is a rival or dual union to the United Textile Workers. Like the
United Textile Workers, it is a federation of allied crafts within the industry.
These craft divisions are largely autonomous, the largest of them, the National
Loom Fixers’ Association, functioning as an independent body within the
federation.
The Amalgamated Textile Workers sprang up in 1922, seceding from the
United Textile Workers at the time of the Lawrence strike. This organiza­
tion had a substantial following for two or three years, with headquarters in
New York City, although its membership was chiefly in Lawrence, Mass. It
disbanded in 1925, and most of its membership has been absorbed by the
American Federation of Textile Operatives.
The Associated Silk Workers of Paterson, N. J., is a local union only, oper­
ating within the silk industry in Paterson, and independent of both the other
groups.
The United Front is a sporadic organization with Industrial Workers of the
World affiliations which is active only during strikes. Its membership is shift­
ing and uncertain, and it has no definite officers or headquarters.
There is still another organization in the textile industry, composed of the
skilled machine printers in the printing and finishing mills, chiefly in Rhode
Island. No information has been obtained from this organization, and nothing
concerning it has be$n ascertained beyond the fact that it exists.

TEXTILE WORKERS OF AMERICA, UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Washington, D. C., November 19, 1901. The National Union of
Textile Workers was organized in 1896 from directly affiliated American Feder­
ation of Labor locals. The organization was short lived, however, and soon
dissolved into scattering locals affiliated to the federation. These were once
more brought together in 1901 in an organization chartered by the American
Federation of Labor as the United Textile Workers of America.
Objects.—“ The objects of this organization are first, to establish and main­
tain as far as possible a uniform rate of wages upon as high a standard as
possible, consistent with the true interest of trade as affecting textile workers;
to protect its members from illegal or unjust treatment of whatever nature
that any employer may endeaVer to subject them to; to protect, educate and




133

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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

elevate, by the use of all honorable means, all the textile operatives o f America
in whatever branch employed; to secure for the workers the full en joymei it of
the wealth they create; sufficient leisure in which to develop their intellectual,
moral, and social faculties, all of the benefits, recreations, and pleasures of asso­
ciation, in a word, to enable them to share in the gains « nd honors of t iyancing
civilization; to persuade employers to agree to arbitral! differences w ch may
arise between them and their employees when all othv r means havdP&iied;
to use all efforts to secure, by all fair and honorable means, all reasonable
labor legislation affecting the textile workers, particularly the women and chil­
dren, and furthermore, to use our utmost endeavors to organize all textile
workers to secure unity of action through our economic force, believing that
an injury to one is the concern of all.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—The textile industry.
Government.—1. “ The government of this organization shall consist of a
president, two vice presidents, a secretary-treasurer and nine members who
shall constitute an executive council. They shall exercise a general control
over its affairs and property.”
2. Textile councils: Delegate bodies formed in vicinities where two or more
local unions exist. Affiliation compulsory. “ Textile councils may adopt such
trade rules as the members thereof may deem expedient or judicious, but they
shall not adopt any rule which conflicts with the constitution or by-laws of the
United Textile Workers.”
3. Local unions: “All local unions shall be allowed such local autonomy as
does not conflict with international laws.” Dues fixed by constitution.
4. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person actually working in a textile
mill is eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Such apprenticeship systems as exist are regu­
lated locally by the various crafts within the industry.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally by crafts, each division controlling its own
wage scale and working conditions.
Benefits.—Strike donations and funeral.
Official organ.—The Textile Worker.
Headquarters.— Bible House, New York City.

Organization.—Local unions only: Alabama, 4; California, 2; Connecticut,
24; Georgia, 7; Illinois, 5; Indiana, 2; Iowa, 2; Maine, 14; Massachusetts, 51;
New Hampshire, 27; New Jersey, 29; New York, 31; North Carolina, 19; Ohio,
4 ; Pennsylvania, 39; Rhode Island, 36; South Carolina, 11; Tennessee, 7;
Texas, 2; Vermont, 5; Wisconsin, 8. Total, 329.
Membership.—American Federation of Labor voting strength, 30,000.
FULL FASHIONED HOSIERY WORKERS.
In 1915 the hosiery knitters withdrew from the United Textile Workers of
America and organized the American Federation of Full Fashioned Hosiery
Workers. The organization functioned independently until 1922, when it re­
affiliated with the parent body, keeping, however, its status as an autonomous
group. It has its own officers and holds conventions independent of that of the
United Textile Workers. It pays a strike benefit and has established unem­
ployment insurance for the craft. It publishes The Hosiery Worker as its
official organ. Branches of the American Federation of Full Fashioned Hosiery
Workers, which are also chartered as local unions of the United Textile Work­
ers, are: Connecticut, 1; Indiana, 2; Kentucky, 1; Massachusetts, 3; New
Jersey, 6; New York, 3 ; North Carolina, 1; Pennsylvania, 4; Rhode Island, 2;
Wisconsin, 3. Headquarters of the group are at 2530 North Fourth Street,
Philadelphia, and there are approximately 10,000 members.

FEDERATED T E X T IL E UNION
COTTON MULE SPINNERS
This organization was founded in 1858 and has existed under various names
since that time. It was affiliated to the American Federation of Labor until
1919, when it was suspended because of its refusal to merge with the United




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135

Textile Workers. It is a craft organization having jurisdiction over cotton
spinners and has a membership of about 8,000 in the New England cotton mills.
It pays a strike benefit and a small lump-sum payment in case of accident or
death by accident on duty. Headquarters are 188 Lyman Street, Holyoke, Mass.

LACE OPERATIVES, CHARTERED SOCIETY OF THE AMALGAMATED
Organized in Philadelphia in 1892. It was first known as the Chartered
Society of Amalgamated Lace Curtain Operatives of America. With the ex­
tension of jurisdiction to the lace industry, the word “ curtain ” was dropped
from the title. The society was affiliated to the American Federation of Labor
from its establishment until 1919, when its charter was revoked on account of
its refusal to merge with the United Textile Workers. It has been largely
instrumental in the formation of a federated textile union.
It has jurisdiction over the entire lace-making trade and is composed of
three autonomous sections—curtain section, the Levers section, and the aux­
iliary section—each of which elects its own executive committee and con­
ducts its own affairs separately. The amalgamation of the three sections is
governed by three vice presidents, one from each section, and a secretarytreasurer elected by referendum of the entire membership. This body nego­
tiates with the manufacturers in the establishment of piecework rates and
hours of labor. Other conditions of employment are established locally by
the local unions involved. The national organization pays a death benefit
and a small lump-sum payment upon the death of the wife of a member.
Sick benefits and unemployment insurance are paid by the local unions.
The society has branches in Connecticut (3), New Jersey (4), New York
(5), Ohio (1), Pennsylvania (13), and Rhode Island (4), with a total mem­
bership of about 1,600. It publishes a bimonthly magazine called the Ameri­
can Lace Worker and has national headquarters at 544 West Lehigh Avenue,
Philadelphia, Pa.

TAPESTRY CARPET WEAVERS
One of the component unions of the Federated Textile Union is a small
local organization of tapestry carpet weavers in the city of Philadelphia.

TEXTILE OPERATIVES, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF
Organized in Fall River, Mass., January 14, 1916, by the workers in the
textile mills of Fall River and New Bedford who withdrew from the United
Textile Workers. The first name of the organization was National Amalgama­
tion of Textile Workers. This was changed in 1922 to the American Federation
of Textile Operatives to distinguish it from the Amalgamated Textile Workers’
Union which sprang up in Lawrence during the strike of 1922.
The jurisdiction of the American Federation of Textile Operatives covers
the entire textile industry. It is in fact a federation of craft unions, the largest
and most important of which is thp National Loom Fixers’ Association. All of
the allied crafts function independently, determining their own qualifications
for membership, controlling their own apprentice systems, and fixing their
own wage scales and working conditions. The federation acts as a concilia­
tion medium for the member organizations in trade disputes, and pays a strike
benefit
The American Federation of Textile Operatives is governed by an executive
council consisting of president, three vice presidents, secretary, treasurer, and
10 elective members, all of whom are elected at the annual convention.
Headquarters of the federation are at 132 Second Street, Fall River, Mass.,
and The Textile Advocate is the official organ. Its total membership is ap­
proximately 11,000 in 40 local unions, 7 of which are in Connecticut, 4 in
Maine, 26 in Massachusetts, 2 in New Hampshire, and 1 in Vermont
103312°—26----- 10







POOD, LIQUOR, AND TOBACCO
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Bakery and Confectionery Workers’ International Union of America________
Brewery, Flour, Cereal, and Soft Drink Workers of America, International
Union of United_____________________________________________________
Hotel and Restaurant Employees’ International Alliance and Bartenders’ Inter­
national League of America____________________________________________
Meat Cutters and Butcher Workmen of North America, Amalgamated_______
Cigar Makers’ International Union------------------------------------------------------------Tobacco Workers’ International Union____________________________________
Independent organizations:
Food Workers of America, Amalgamated__________________________________
Tobacco Workers, Amalgamated------------------------------------------------------------------

P&ge

137

139
141
142
143
144
140
144

BAKERY AND CONFECTIONERY WORKERS’ INTERNATIONAL
UNION OF AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Pittsburgh, Pa., January 13, 1886. Organization of bakers
began as early as 1880, but it was sporadic, with unions springing up at various
times in the cities and dying out again without getting a foothold in the trade.
In 1885 a weekly paper was established by the former secretary and a handful
of survivors of the New York union which in 1880 had conducted a successful
strike. The paper, Deutsch-Amerikanische B&cker-Zeitung, printed in German,
was a trade and propaganda organ which soon gained a wide circulation and
exerted a strong influence on the German bakers throughout the country. As a
result of the paper’s agitation and educational work the moribund unions
revived locally, and met in national conference in Pittsburgh in 1886. Twenty
delegates representing 17 cities founded the Journeymen Bakers’ National Union
of North America.
Later jurisdiction was extended to candy and ice cream makers, and in 1903
the name Bakery and Confectionery Workers’ International Union was
adopted. The original publication remains as a distinct part of the official
organ of the union.
Objects.—“ The international union aims at the promotion of the material and
intellectual welfare of all workers in the baking and confectionery industries:
(1) by organization; (2) by education and enlightenment by word and pen;
(3) by the reduction of the hours of labor and maintaining adequate wage
standards; (4) by gradually abolishing such evils as may prevail in these
industries; (5) by establishing labor bureaus wherever possible; (6) by assist­
ing members in matters concerning the union; (7) by assisting local unions in
the abolition of nightwork and establishing daywork in localities where local
conditions make it possible to do so; (8) by making propaganda for the six-hour
work day and the union label.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Bread, cake, pie, cracker, pretzel, pastry, candy, and ice
cream manufacture, and delivery of bakery goods (bakery wagon drivers).
Government—General executive board, composed of 15 members, is the con­
trolling body and “ represents the international union in every respect.” It
shall “ make such provisions and rules as may become necessary for the best
interests of the organization,” shall be “ the governing body and guardian of
the international union label, * ♦ * decide all questions of jurisdiction
and law and shall have full power to authorize strikes.”
The general executive board is made up of “ the quorum” consisting of 4
members selected by the local unions in the vicinity of the international head­
quarters (Chicago) and 11 other members elected by and representing the 11
territorial districts.
The quorum must hold a meeting at least once every two weeks and act upon
all business coming before it. Its decisions are subject to approval by a twothirds vote of the 11 nonresident members of the general executive board.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

The other international officers are the international executive secretaries—
corresponding secretary, financial secretary, and secretary-treasurer—and the
international general organizers.
2. Local joint executive boards: “ Wherever more than one local union exists
in any one city or vicinity, a local joint executive board must be formed, with
full power to adjust all differences between locals and members and their em­
ployers, subject to approval of the general executive board” and “make laws
and rules * * * to enforce the working conditions adopted by the loeals. * * *
The local joint executive board shall be the controlling body in all strikes and
lockouts.”
3. Local unions: “ Every local union shall have the right to adopt by-laws,
which, however, must be in accord with the constitution of the international
union,” and may appeal all decisions of the general executive board to the en­
suing convention or to referendum.
Local unions may organize apprentices and helpers into auxiliary unions
under their jurisdiction.
4. Convention: “ The convention is empowered to amend the constitution;
to reform the organization of the international union, and to take all steps
which it judges to be in the interests of the union.” Conventions held trienntally.
5. Referendum: General officers nominated and elected by referendum. All
laws passed in convention, and decisions and rules of the general executive
board, are subject to ratification by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person of good character actually em­
ployed in any of the industries mentioned in this constitution may become a
member” of the union; but “no candidate for membership shall be accepted
who is not a citizen of the United States or Canada, or has not declared his
or her intention to become such.” Male and female membership.
Male applicants must pass a physical examination by a “duly licensed reli­
able physician” selected by the local union, to be eligible to benefits. Those
failing to meet the physical requirements are admitted as nonbeneficiary mem­
bers.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Apprenticeship term, two years, during which
the apprentice “must be thoroughly instructed in all branches of the trade.”
Ratio is generally one apprentice to four or to five journeymen. (Provided
for in agreements, not by constitutional requirement.)
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions on terms approved by general exec­
utive board prior to conference. Agreements are generally made with indi­
vidual employers. International officers assist in negotiations if called upon
by local to do so.
Contracts call for 48-hour week (8 hours a day 6 days in week) ; weekly
wages and weekly pay day; shop sanitation; union label (not universal). Oneyear term.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; sick; death (member and wife). Female
members not eligible to benefits.
Official organ.—The Bakers’ Journal and Deutsch-Amerikanische B&ckerZeitung.
Headquarters.—No. 2719 Best Avenue, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Districts:
District No. 1. New York and New Jersey.
District No. 2. Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode
Island, and Connecticut.
District No. 3. Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, District of Columbia,
Virginia, and West Virginia.
District No. 4. North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Tennes­
see, Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, and Porto Rieo.
District No. 5. Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan.
District No. 6. Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.
District No. 7. Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, and South
Dakota.
District No. 8. Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Wyoming, and New Mexico.
District No. 9. California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah.
District No. 10. Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Alberta, British
Columbia, and Alaska.
District No. 11. Canada with the exception of British Columbia and Alberta.
District councils: District No. 1, Hebrew Joint Organization, New York City;
No. 6, headquarters in St. Louis; No. 10, headquarters in Oakland, Calif.




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139

Joint executive boards: New York City, N. Y .; Los Angeles, Calif.; Detroit,
Mich.; Springfield, Mass.; JNew Britain, uonii.; Chicago, 111.; Baltimore, Md.;
Pittsburgh, Pa.; Cleveland, Ohio.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 1; Arizona, 2; Arkansas, 1; Cali­
fornia, 12 (1 auxiliary) ; Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 13; District of Columbia.
3 (2 auxiliaries) ; Florida, 2; Illinois, 23 (1 auxiliary) ; Indiana, 6; Iowa, 4;
Kansas, 2; Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 2; Maryland, 3; Massachusetts, 17; Mich­
igan, 3; Minnesota, 4; Missouri, 5; Montana, 3; Nebraska, 1; Nevada, 1; New
Hampshire, 2; New Jersey, 16; New York, 27 (1 auxiliary) ; Ohio, 16; Okla­
homa, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 10; Rhode Island, 2; South Dakota, 1;
Tennessee, 1; Texas, 6 (1 auxiliary) ; Washington, 7 (1 auxiliary) ; West Vir­
ginia, 2; Wisconsin, 6; Wyoming, 1; Porto Rico, 1. Canada—Alberta, 1:
British Columbia, 1; Ontario, 3 ; Quebec, 2. Total, 219 journeymen, 7 auxiliary
locals.
Membership.—24,600.

BREWERY, FLOUR, CEREAL, AND SOFT DRINK WORKERS OF
AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL UNION OF UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Baltimore, Md., August 29, 1886. The earliest form of organ­
ization among the brewery workers was in mutual aid societies which sprang
up during the fifties. The first labor union was organized in Cincinnati on
December 26, 1879, New York following in 1881, with a strong local organiza­
tion which, however, met a serious defeat in a strike later in the year and
broke up. For several years thereafter organization of brewery workers in
New York was carried out in strict secrecy under the Knights of Labor. An
aggressive and successful boycott of the products of antiunion breweries car­
ried out in 1886 by labor organizations in other crafts brought the brewery
organization of New York into the open. All the breweries in New York
City were organized and covered by an agreement which recognized the union.
Local organizations in various cities followed rapidly. In August, 1886,
delegates from five cities met in Baltimore and organized the National Union
of Brewers of the United States. An official journal was established at once,
the first number appearing on October 1, 1886. The new national union affili­
ated with the American Federation of Labor in March, 1887. The next con­
vention, held in Detroit in 1887, expanded the organization to cover the entire
industry and changed its name to National Union of the United Brewery
Workmen of the United States.
The policy of industrial unionism proclaimed by the brewery workers from
the beginning resulted in a succession of long-drawn-out jurisdictional dis­
putes with the craft organizations in the American Federation of Labor—
first the coopers, then the firemen and engineers, and then the teamsters. At
the insistence of these combined organizations the charter of the brewery
workmen was revoked by the American Federation of Labor in 1907 on the
grounds of encroaching on established jurisdictions and refusal to comply
with convention decisions. The federation, however, was forced to reconsider
this action, and in 1908 the brewery workmen were rechartered with a recog­
nized jurisdiction “ over all workers employed in the brewery industry.”
Prohibition demanded readjustments within the brewery industry and the
extension of jurisdiction of the United Brewery Workmen to soft-drink manu­
facture. This was followed in 1918 by an incursion into flour and cereal
milling, a jurisdiction previously held by the International Union of Flour
and Cereal Mill Employees, but which was left unclaimed after the collapse
of that organization in 1910.
This comprehensive jurisdiction was recognized in the expansion of the
title of the brewery workers to International Union of United Brewery, Flour,
Cereal, and Soft Drink Workers, under which title it was rechartered by the
American Federation of Labor in 1918.
Objects.—“ The organization seeks to promote the material and the intel­
lectual welfare of the workers [in the industry] by means of organization,
education, and enlightenment by word and pen; reduction of the hours of
toil and increase of Wages; active participation in the political labor move­
ment in the country on independent labor class lines. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Brewery, flour, cereal, malt, grain elevator, yeast, vine­
gar, alcohol, wine, cider, cereal beverage, soft-drink and niiaeral-water workers,



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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Government.—1. General executive board of 17 members, including three
general secretaries, a general organizer, one representative from each of the
nine geographic districts, and four additional members chosen from locals of
the city in which international headquarters is located, is the controlling body.
The quorum, composed of the three general secretaries and the four resident
members, is the administration medium.
2. Joint local executive boards: “ In places where there are more than one
union of the international organization it is imperative to form a joint local
executive board,” which “ shall be the controlling body in all strikes and
lockouts, * * * shall have control of the union label ” and “ shall deal with
all questions and transact such business as may be in the interest of the local
unions. ”
3. Local unions: “ All local unions shall reserve the right to adopt special
local constitutions and by-laws, providing such constitutions are in concert
and accordance with the laws of the international organization and are in­
dorsed by the general executive board. ”
Branches: Branches of local unions may be formed of more than 5 and less
than 20 in places where there are not enough to form and maintain a local.
Such branches are under the control and regulation of the parent local.
4. Convention: Held triennially; enacts legislation and nominates general
executive board members. Constitutional amendments either by convention or
referendum. Election of officers by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Actual employment in the industry and citi­
zenship or first naturalization papers are required. Foremen and office em­
ployees, not eligible. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Established locally in agreements with em­
ployers. Term of apprenticeship is generally two years. Ratio of apprentices
to journeymen varies.
Agreements.—“ Local unions are obliged to submit their contracts to the
joint local executive board and the general executive board for indorsement
before they are submitted to proprietors ♦ ♦ * When making new con­
tracts at least those minimum wages and maximum hours as decided by the
convention shall be demanded and enforced,” and “ it shall be obligatory upon
all unions to insert the arbitration clause in all contracts.”
Benefits.—Strike and lockout.
Official organ.—The Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 2347-2351 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Organization.—Joint local executive boards: San Francisco, Calif.; New
Haven, Conn.; Chicago, 111.; Evansville, Ind.; Davenport, Iowa; Rock Island.
111.; New Orleans, L a.; Baltimore, Md.; Boston and Worcester, Mass.; Minne­
apolis and St. Paul, Minn.; St. Louis, Mo.; Hudson County (Jersey City) and
Newark, N. J .; Albany and vicinity, Brooklyn, Buffalo, New York City, and
Syracuse, N. Y .; Cincinnati, Columbus, and Toledo, Ohio; Philadelphia, Pitts­
burgh, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and vicinity, Pa.; Providence, R. I.; San An­
tonio, Tex.; Seattle, Wash.; and Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Local unions organized by departments (brewers, soft drink workers, bot­
tlers, drivers, etc.) in large centers: United States—California, 14; Colorado,
2 ; Connecticut, 4; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 1; Illinois, 24; Indiana.
6; Iowa, 2; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 2; Maryland, 4; Massachusetts, 8; Mich­
igan, 1; Minnesota, 11; Missouri, 9; Montana, 3 ; New Jersey, 7; New York.
32; North Dakota, 1; Ohio, 21; Oklahoma, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 33;
Rhode Island, 2; Tennessee, 3; Texas, 7; Utah, 2; Washington, 5; West Vir­
ginia, 2; Wisconsin, 21; Wyoming, 2. Canada—Alberta, 3; British Columbia,
3 ; Ontario, 5. Total, 247.
Membership.—18,000.

FOOD WORKERS OF AMERICA, AMALGAMATED
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City in 1921. This organization, founded on strictly
industrial lines, is an amalgamation of bakers and confectioners who had
seceded from the Bakery and Confectionery Workers’ Union, affiliated to the
American Federation of Labor, and an independent organization established
in 1916 known as the Hotel, Restaurant and Caterer Workers’ Federation. The
first name adopted by the amalgamated organization was International Work­
ers in the Amalgamated Food Industry. In 1923 this name was changed to the
Amalgamated Food Workers.




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141

Objects.—“ Being guided by past experience we are convinced that it is im­
possible to accomplish anything worth while by following the old system of
craft or trade unionism; to cope with the present situation successfully the
workers must organize and combine industrially on the economic field on the
principle of the class struggle. In advocating these principles we still recognize
the necessity for the workers to fight continually to shorten the workday,
increase the pay according to the standard of living and the development of
the industry and cooperate with all other workers who struggle for the aboli­
tion of the wage system and the complete emancipation of labor.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture, packing, preparing, distributing, and
serving of foodstuffs of all descriptions.
Government.—L Shop unit. “All the workers employed in one establishment
shall constitute a shop unit which shall deal with matters arising in and per­
taining to that particular establishment.”
2. Branches or locals. “All the members in one city or locality shall con­
stitute a branch or local with full power to elect their own officials or appoint
them in emergencies for their territory; enact by-laws that shall not conflict
with this constitution; have their own treasury, and control of matters pertain­
ing to the workers in the industry within their territorial jurisdiction.”
3. Central executive board, composed of representatives elected by the
branches or locals. The duties of the central executive board shall be: “ to
control all matters of general interest to the organization; supervise the work of
the officials; decide all questions of jurisdiction or dispute between branches
of locals * * * and pass upon such other matters as may properly come
before it.”
Central executive board elects from its members an executive committee of
three members, one representing each section of the industry; that is, hotel
workers, butcher workers, and bakery workers. This executive committee has
general executive supervision over the organization.
4. Convention: Held biennially. Constitutional amendments by convention
and referendum. General officers nominated and elected by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—All wage earners employed in the industry
are eligible to membership except persons employed as representatives of the
employers. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally with the approval of the central execu­
tive board. Constitution requires that “ no agreement with any specified
time limit shall be signed between this organization and an employer. ”
Benefits.—Sick, death (member and wife from contributory fund), strike
(by locals).
Official organ.—Free Voice of the Amalgamated Food Workers.
Headquarters.—No. 81 East Tenth Street, New York City.
Organization.—Locals only: Hotel workers section—Connecticut, 2; Illinois,
1; New Jersey, 1; New York, 3; Pennsylvania, 1. Butcher workmen section—
New Jersey, 2; New York, 1; Pennsylvania, 1. Bakery workmen section—
Nebraska, 1; New Jersey, 2; New York, 7; Pennsylvania, 4. Total, 26.
Membership.—12,000.

HOTEL AND RESTAURANT EMPLOYEES’ INTERNATIONAL ALLI­
ANCE AND BARTENDERS’ I N T E R N A T I O N A L LEAGUE OF
AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Detroit, Mich., in December, 1890, as the Waiters and Bar­
tenders’ National Union of the United States. It was formed from several
organizations of cooks and waiters chartered by the American Federation of
Labor as directly affiliated local unions. In 1898 the name of the organiza­
tion became Hotel and Restaurant Employees* International Alliance and Bar­
tenders* International League of America. An attempt in 1915 to separate the
two branches of work into separate organizations proved unsuccessful.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The catering industry, and serving of beverages and
food, and personal service employees in hotels and clubs.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, secretarytreasurer, and eight vice presidents, one of whom shall be a woman. The
president is the executive head of the organization, with comprehensive powers.



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2. Local joint executive board, which must be formed wherever more than
one local exists in any one city or vicinity, have “ full power to adjust all dif­
ferences between locals and members ” or between locals and employers. They
“ may make such laws and rules as do not conflict with the international con­
stitution to govern themselves and to enforce the scale of wages and hours
adopted by the locals, ” but “ by-laws for the government of local joint execu­
tive boards shall be uniform, issued from the headquarters of the interna­
tional. ”
3. Local unions: “ The use of the international constitution is mandatory;
local unions have the power to enact their own by-laws, .provided they do not
conflict with the international constitution. ”
4. Convention: Meets biennially, elects general officers, enacts legislation.
Constitutional amendments by convention vote or by initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Citizeship or citizenship intention. Appli­
cants “ are accepted on probation; if after six months no objection is filed
with the local, the applicant becomes a full-fledged member.” Male and fe­
male membership.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally, generally with individual employer. Usual
provisions are for union shop, 6-day week, 8 hours’ work to be done in 10
hours; arbitration of disputes; overtime rates and weekly or monthly wage
scale.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—The Mixer and Server.
Headquarters.—No. 528-530 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Organization.—Joint executive boards: California—Los Angeles and San
Francisco; Colorado—Denver; Illinois—Chicago, Peoria, and South Chicago;
Massachusetts—Boston; Michigan—Detroit; Minnesota—Minneapolis; Mis­
souri—Kansas City and St. Louis; New Hampshire—Manchester; New Jersey—
Hoboken, Newark, and Atlantic City; New York—New York City, Buffalo, and
Rochester; Ohio-—Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Toledo; Oregon—Portland;
Pennsylvania—Philadelphia and Pittsburgh; Rhode Island—Providence; Utah—
Salt Lake City; Washington—Seattle; West Virginia—Charleston; Wisconsin—
Milwaukee.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 2; Arizona, 3; Arkansas, 4; Cali­
fornia, 31; Colorado, 5; Connecticut, 2; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 1;
Georgia, 1; Idaho, 3; Illinois, 22; Indiana, 5; Iowa, 4; Kansas, 1; Kentucky,
2 ; Louisiana, 2; Maine, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 9; Michigan, 3; Minne­
sota, 3; Mississippi, 3; Missouri, 10; Montana, 7; Nebraska, 1; New Hamp­
shire, 2; New Jersey, 7; New York, 19; Ohio, 13; Oklahoma, 4; Oregon, 11;
Pennsylvania, 14; Rhode Island, 2; Tennessee, 2 ; Texas, 17; Utah, 2; Virginia,
1; Washington, 16: West Virginia, 2: Wisconsin, 6; Wyoming, 7; Alaska, 1;
Canal Zone, 1. Canada—Alberta, 2; British Columbia, 4; Ontario, 2; Quebec,
3. Total, 265.
Membership.—38,240.

MEAT CUTTERS AND BUTCHER WORKMEN OF NORTH AMERICA,
AMALGAMATED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1897 from a group of directly affiliated American Federation
of Labor local unions.
Objects.—“ The object of this organization shall be the elevation of the posi­
tion of its members, the maintenance of the best interests of the organization
and to obtain, by conciliation or other means just and legal, a fair remuner­
ation to members for their labor, and to afford mutual protection to members
against obnoxious rules, unlawful discharge and other systems of injustice or
oppression.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—The slaughtering and meat-packing industry, and “sau­
sage makers and meat cutters no matter where employed.”
Government.—1. Executive board, consisting of a president, nine vice presi­
dents, and a secretary-treasurer, is “ the highest authority in the order.”
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution and regulations dictated by inter­
national.




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143

3. Convention held quadrennially or biennially on referendum call. Enacts
legislation and elects general officers. Initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“All wage earners in any way connected
with slaughtering and packing establishments, sausage makers and meat cut­
ters no matter where employed, who are over 16 years of age, with the defined
exceptions of superintendents, bookkeepers, office clerks, timekeepers and
managers of wholesale houses” are eligible to membership. “Retail market
owners and partnerships not employing help and who are not members of any
employers’ association may join either as active or honorary members.” Male
and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, generally with individual employ­
ers, but must be approved by the executive board. Agreements call for union
shop, overtime pay, and cover sanitary regulations.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death.
Official organ.—The Butcher Workman.
Headquarters.—No. 160 North La Salle Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.— Local unions only: United States— Alabama, 1; Arizona, 1 ;
Arkansas, 2; California, 26; Colorado, 3; Connecticut, 4; District of Columbia,
1; Florida, 2; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 34; Indiana, 5; Iowa, 3; Kansas, 1; Ken­
tucky, 3; Louisiana, 2; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 4; Minnesota, 5; Missouri,
4; Montana, 5; Nebraska, 2; Nevada, 1; New Jersey, 4; New York, 24; Ohio, 7;
Oklahoma, 3; Oregon, 8; Pennsylvania, 5; South Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 3;
Texas, 5; Utah, 2; Washington, 6; West Virginia, 2; Wisconsin, 8; Wyoming,
4; Porto Rico, 1; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—British Columbia, 1. Total, 196.
Membership.—Not reported. American Federation of Labor voting strength,
12,200.

CIGAR MAKERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City, on June 21, 1864. The first organization of
cigar makers was formed in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1845; the next, in Baltimore,
Md., in 1851. Thereafter local organizations increased in number, but re­
mained independent of each other until 1863, when a conference was held in
Philadelphia. This conference led to a second one, held in New York City on
June 21,1864, at which the National Cigar Makers’ Union was founded. Three
years later the name was changed to the Cigar Makers’ International Union.
This organization was among the first to establish the eight-hour day for
its members. It adopted an eight-hour law at its 1885 convention and had
established it in successful operation by May 1, 1886. It was also instrumental
in launching the American Federation of Labor.
Objects.—“ For the amelioration and final emancipation of labor.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada, and Cuba.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of cigars; including specifically, work
done by cigar makers, stemmers, strippers, banders, branders, labelers, and
casers.
Government.—1. Executive board composed of president and seven vice presi­
dents. The president is the executive head of the organization, with wide
powers.
The third vice president must be a member of and elected from a Canadian
union and he is, practically, the executive head of the organization in Canada.
2. Local unions: Autonomy limited, especially in the matter of funds.
3. Initiative and referendum: General officers elected by referendum; legis­
lation by initiative and referendum.
4. Convention: On referendum call only. Legislation enacted in convention
subject to referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ All persons engaged in the cigar industry,
regardless of color or nationality, except Chinese coolies and tenement-house
workers, shall be eligible to membership. This shall include manufacturers
who employ no journeymen cigar makers, and foremen who have less than
six members of the union working under them.” Male and female membership.
Applicants who are affected with chronic diseases or who are over 50 years
of age shall not be entitled to sick benefits or to funeral benefits of more
than $100.
Class B membership: All persons other than cigar makers, engaged in the
cigar industry, such as stemmers or strippers, banders, branders, labelers and
casers, may become Class B members, entitled to only $100 death benefit and




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

half the regular sick and strike benefits. They may also become regular mem­
bers if they so elect Glass B dues are 50 per cent of regular dues.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“All persons learning cigar making, stogie mak­
ing, or packing shall serve an apprenticeship, the time such an apprentice shall
serve to be determined by the style of work learned. Those learning strictly
hand work and packing shall serve not more than three years; mold work
not more than two years; bunch making and rolling not more than one year;
machine workers not more than six months.
“ Local unions shall judge the qualifications of apprentices who may make
application for membership and pass upon same before maximum time has
expired. All apprentices shall be honorary members of the union until their
term of apprenticeship has ended, when they must become dues-paying
members.
“ Local unions shall have the power to stipulate the number of apprentices
under their respective jurisdictions.
“ Manufacturers who do not employ at least one journeyman for his full
time shall not be allowed an apprentice.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions with local manufacturers. Locals
act independent of each other and there is slight similarity in terms or rates
of pay. Contracts cover piece price lists, union shop, etc. Union label issued
by international through local secretaries to union shops conforming to laws
laid down by the international.
Hours: Constitutional 8-hour day. Fewer than eight established by agree­
ment in some cases.
Closed shops: “ When a local union shall decide to close any shop to the
members of the international union, three officers of the local union shall
furnish a full statement of the facts to the international president” Executive
board, by a two-thirds vote, shall have power to approve, reject, or modify the
terms of closure.
Benefits.—Strike, lockout, and victimization; sick; funeral; life insurance
(contributory) which may be drawn before death in case of total disability;
loan to members traveling to find employment.
Official organ.—Cigar Makers’ Official Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 508 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 3; Arkansas, 2;
California, 8; Colorado, 4; Connecticut, 14; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia,
1; Florida, 14; Georgia, 2; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 39; Indiana, 21; Iowa, 14; Kan­
sas, 5; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 2; Maine, 5; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 13;
Michigan, 23; Minnesota, 9; Missouri, 7; Montana, 4; Nebraska, 3; New Hamp­
shire, 4; New Jersey, 8; New Mexico, 1; New York, 44; Ohio, 20; Oklahoma,
1; Oregon, 3; Pennsylvania, 28; Rhode Island, 2; South Dakota, 4; Tennessee,
4; Texas, 4; Utah, 1; Vermont, 3; Virginia, 2; Washington, 7; West Virginia,
4 ; Wisconsin, 21; Porto Iiico, 14. Cuba, 1. Canada—Alberta, 1; British Co­
lumbia, 1; New Brunswick, 1; Ontario, 5; Quebec, 2. Total, 386.
Membership.—24,000.

TOBACCO WORKERS, AMALGAMATED
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City, in April, 1921. It is an amalgamation of several
small locals, some of which had seceded from the Cigar Makers’ International
Union after the strike of 1919, and others of which were entirely independent
The Shop Chairman’s Institute, which grew out of the general strike of 1919,
was the chief factor in promoting the Amalgamated Tobacco Workers.
It is an effort to organize along industrial lines the unskilled machine work­
ers in the cigar-making trade. At present it has only two local unions, one in
New York City and one in Philadelphia. Total membership is about 1,200.
A journal, the Amalgamated Tobacco Worker, is published irregularly. The
headquarters of the organization are 35 Second Avenue, New York City.

TOBACCO WORKERS' INTERNATIONAL UNION
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in St. Louis, Mo.. May 25. 1895. Independent organizations of
tobacco workers had been in existence since the early sixties, and were brought
together in convention in St Louis, in May, 1895, at which the National To­




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145

bacco Workers* Union of America was founded. Three years later the name
was changed to Tobacco Workers* International Union.
Objects.—“ The educational, social, economic, and fraternal betterment of all
persons employed in the craft.**
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, Canada and Mexico.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of smoking and chewing tobacco, snuff,
and paper-wrapped cigarettes.
Government.—General executive board composed of president, six vice presi­
dents and secretary-treasurer. “ The international president shall be the chief
executive officer of the international union, * * * The general executive
board shall render such assistance to the president as he may require, and
watch legislative measures directly affecting the tobacco workers generally.”
2. Local unions: Largely autonomous; exact status not fixed by constitution.
3. Initiative and referendum: General officers elected by referendum; con­
vention on referendum call only. Constitutional amendments by initiative and
referendum, or by convention when held.
Qualifications for membership.—Applicants for membership, under (60) years
of age, “may be elected upon their own statement.** Male and female mem­
bership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated independently by local unions with individual em­
ployers. There is no uniformity as to terms or duration of contract. Union
label controlled by locals.
Contracts cover both time and piecework rates; hours vary from 54 to 44.
Benefits.—Strike, lockout and victimization; sick; death.
Official organ.—None. (The Tobacco Worker discontinued.)
Headquarters.—Our Home Life Building, Louisville, Ky.
Organization.—Local unions: Illinois, 2; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 1; Mich­
igan, 1; Missouri, 2; New York, 4; North Carolina, 2 ; Pennsylvania, 4; West
Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 1. Total, 22.
Membership.—1,500 to 2,000.







GLASS, CLAY, AND STONE
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Brick and Clay Workers of America, United______________________________
Glass Bottle Blowers' Association of the United States and Canada________
Glass Cutters and Flatteners Association of America, Window_______________
Glass Workers, National Window__________________________________________
Glass Workers* Union of North America, American Flint__________________
Granite Cutters* International Association of America, The (classified under
Building Trades)----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Marble, Stone and Slate Polishers. Rubbers and Sawyers, Tile and Marble
Setters* Helpers and Terrazzo Workers* Helpers, International Association
of (classified under Building Trades)___________________________________
Paving Cutters* Union of the United States of America and Canada, Inter­
national-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Potters, National Brotherhood of Operative______________________________
Quarry Workers* International Union of North America_____________________
Slate Workers, American Federation of Labor (locals)_______________________
Stonecutters* Association of North America, Journeymen (classified under
Building Trades)______________________________________________________
Independent organizations:
Glass Cutters and Flatteners* Protective Association of America, Window____
Glass Cutters League of America, Window_______________________________ -

P*ge
147
148
149
150
151
28
32
152
153
154
4
40
149
150

BRICK AND CLAY WORKERS OF AMERICA, UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., May 18, 1894. The National Brick Makers’ Alli­
ance was organized in 1896 from a group of directly affiliated American Fed­
eration of Labor unions. It existed under this name until 1909, when because
of extension of jurisdiction to the terra cotta industry, the name was changed
to International Alliance of Brick, Tile, and Terra Cotta Workers. In 1915,
as a result of dissension in the organization, a second organization was formed
under the name of the United Brick and Clay Workers. The majority of the
rank and file of the membership went with the second organization and after
a short period of dual unionism an agreement was reached with the officers
of the International Alliance of Brick, Tile and Terra Cotta Workers through
which that organization passed out of existence and the name of the new
organization, “ United Brick and Clay Workers of America,” became the official
title of the brickmakers’ union.
Object.—“ The object of the union is to organize all the brick and clay work­
ers of America, to raise the standard of wages, to reduce the hours of labor,
to assist in securing employment, and by all honorable means improve the
moral, intellectual, economic, and social status of its members. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ All building, sewer, paving, fire and ornamental brick­
makers; all building tile, drain tile and sewer pipe workers; all plain, orna­
mental and architectural terra cotta workers; stoneware and art pottery work­
ers ; and clay miners.”
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of president, nine vice presi­
dents, and secretary-treasurer.
2. District councils, “ formed at conventions only * * * shall have general
supervision and control of all matters relating to agreements with employers;
shall arrange the wage scale, hours of labor, and all details necessary to guard
the interests of the unions within the district.” Affiliation to a district council
is mandatory on the part of local unions.
3. Local unions: “Each local union shall have power to fix its own by-laws,
initiation fee, reinstatement fee and dues, not in conflict with the constitu­
tion, ” except where a district council exists.
4. Convention: Meets biennially.
5. Initiative, referendum, and recall.
General officers and district council officers elected by referendum, yearly.
Legislation by initiative and referendum.




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Qualifications for membership.—Any man over 16 years of age working at
the brick and clay industry, except foreman, is eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by locals except where district couucils exist Label
under control of executive council.
Benefits.—Death.
Official organ.—The Union Clay Worker.
Headquarters.—Room 309, Webster Building, 327 S. La Salle Street, Chicago,
111.

Organization.—Local unions only. Connecticut, 6; Illinois, 30; Indiana, 3;
Iowa, 2; Ohio, 9; Pennsylvania, 2; Texas, 1; Washington, 3. Total, 56.
Membership.—Not reported; American Federation of Labor voting strength,
5,000.

GLASS BOTTLE BLOWERS’ ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES
AND CANADA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Baltimore, Md., in 1890. The Glass Blowers’ League dates back
to 1846, and was one of the leading factors in the Knights of Labor movement
The Independent Druggist Ware League was organized in 1868, functioning
chiefly in the Pittsburgh district and farther west. The various craft organiza­
tions met in Baltimore in 1890 and formed the United Green Glass Workers’
Association. In 1891 the newly formed national organizat:on withdrew from
the Knights of Labor and remained an independent body until 1899, when it
affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. The name was changed
in 1896 to Glass Bottle Blowers’ Association of the United States and Canada.
In 1901 the bottle blowers then in the American Flint Glass Workers were
transferred to the Glass Bottle Blowers’ Association.
Objects.— “ The objects of this association are to thoroughly unite all glass
bottle makers and others engaged in the industry for their mutual benefit
and protection; to regulate and maintain a uniform price list throughout the
trade; to enact and enforce such laws as may be deemed necessary for the
purpose of successfully carrying on the work of the association, and to take
an active interest in all things that promise to advance the interests of its
members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.— United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Glass-bottle making.
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of president, vice president, and
eight members elected by the convention, “ shall exercise all the powers of the
association between sessions. * * * The national president shall have gen­
eral superintendence over and enforce all laws of the association.”
2. Local unions: Subordinate; autonomy not fixed in constitution.
Glass factory employees’ department: Subordinate to local branches.
3. Convention: Held annually, and decides “ all questions affecting the gen­
eral interests of the trade, such as making price lists, regulating wages, amend­
ing constitution and by-laws, confirming, modifying, or rejecting any act or
acts of any officer, executive board, committee, or member of the association.”
Election erf general officers by convention. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any man or woman employed in and around
a glass-bottle factory is eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—National agreement covering the skilled workers in the entire
industry negotiated by executive board and a committee representing the manu­
facturers’ association.
Supplementary agreements covering the unskilled workers in the glass fac­
tory employees’ department sometimes handled locally.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; insurance (contributory).
Official organ.—None (The Bottle Maker discontinued).
Headquarters.—Colonial Trust Building, Philadelphia, Pa.
Organization.—Local branches only: United States—California, 4; Illinois, 4:
Indiana, 9; Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 2; Missouri, 2; New Jersey, 11; New
York, 9; Ohio, 10; Oklahoma, 4; Pennsylvania, 26; South Carolina, 1; Ten­
nessee, 1; Texas, 1; Virginia, 4; Washington, 1; West Virginia, 4; Wisconsin, 1.
Canada, 4. Total, 99.
Membership.—6,000.




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149

GLASS CUTTERS AND FLATTENERS ASSOCIATION OF
AMERICA (INC.), WINDOW
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 15, 1904, by the machine workers in the
window-glass industry, it was incorporated in the State of Pennsylvania in Oc­
tober, 1916. It was an independent organization until 1925, when by arrange­
ment with the National Window Glass Workers it secured affiliation with the
American Federation of Labor.
Objects.—“ The objects of the association are to maintain a regular appren­
ticeship system and a higher standard of skill; to cultivate feelings of friend­
ship among the members; to assist each otiier to secure employment; to reduce
the hours of daily labor; to secure adequate pay for our work; to endeavor
by proper means to elevate the moral, intellectual, and social conditions of all
of our members; and to improve our trade.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Manufacture of window glass by machine processes.
Government.—1. General officers are: President, secretary-treasurer, and
executive board of four cutters and four flatteners, and a wage committee of
three cutters and three flatteners. The president is the executive head under
the general supervision of the executive board.
2. Local unions, or preceptories: Subordinate; rules and regulations im­
posed by general organization.
3. Initiative and referendum: General officers elected by referendum. Legis­
lation and constitutional amendments by initiative and referendum. No con­
vention.
Qualifications for membership.—Membership is confined to practical windowglass cutters an4 flatteners employed in plants operating under the scale of
the association.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Apprentices must be between the ages of 16
and 30 and serve an apprenticeship of three years. The president and exec­
utive board shall be empowered to determine the percentage of apprentices
to be granted each year.
Agreements.—Wage scales negotiated for the industry by a wage committee
elected by popular vote. Hours and working rules stipulated in constitution.
Benefits.—Death.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 1104 Standard Life Building, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Organization.—Local unions, or preceptories: Arkansas, 1; California, 1;
Ohio, 1; Oklahoma, 1; Pennsylvania, 2; Texas, 1; West Virginia, 1. Total, 8.
Membership.—Not reported.

GLASS CUTTERS AND FLATTENERS’ PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION
OF AMERICA, WINDOW
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Pittsburgh, Pa., October 3, 1909, as the result of a strike in
the American Window Glass Co. plant.
Objects.—The objects of the association are: “ To maintain the established
custom of the trades; to establish a higher standard of skill; to cultivate a
feeling of friendship among the members; to assist each other to secure em­
ployment; to reduce the hours of daily labor; to secure the highest standard
of wages and best working rules possible for the trades of cutting and flatten­
ing ; to endeavor by proper means to elevate the moral, intellectual and social
conditions of all our members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Machine window-glass factories.
Government.—1. General officers are president, secretary, treasurer, and an
executive board of six, three of whom shall be cutters, and three flatteners.
The president is the executive head under the general supervision of the exec­
utive board.
2. Local unions, or preceptories: Subordinate; constitution, by-laws and
regulations imposed by general organization.
3. Initiative and referendum: General officers elected by referendum. Con­
stitutional amendments by initiative an£ referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Membership is confined to cutters and flat­
teners employed in the machine-window-glass factories operating under the



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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-TTNIONS

wage scale of the association. Inspectors, boss cutters, and boss fiatteners,
and their assistants, are ineligible and membership is forfeited upon leaving
the employ of the designated factories.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Apprentices must be between the ages of 16 and
35 and serve three years. “ The president and executive board shall be em­
powered to determine the percentage of apprentices to be granted each and
every year.” Brothers and sons of members of the association are given pref­
erence in granting apprenticeships.
Agreements.—A wage committee composed of three cutters and three fiatteners elected by referendum vote has exclusive authority in the making of
the wage scale. Hours and working rules fixed by constitution.
Benefits.—Death.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—Bessemer Building, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Organization.—Locals only: Indiana, 1; Pennsylvania, 6 (membership is
confined to factories of the American Window Glass Co.).
Membership.—600.

GLASS CUTTERS’ LEAGUE OF AMERICA, WINDOW
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Charleston, W. Va., December 6, 1917, as the Cutters’ League.
The name was later changed to the present one.
Objects.—The objects and purposes of the Window Glass Cutters’ League of
America is to maintain a regular apprentice system and a higher standard of
skill; to cultivate a feeling of friendship among its members; to assist each
other to secure employment; to reduce the hours of daily labor; to secure
adequate pay for our work and to promote the interest and welfare of the mem­
bers and their dependents.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Window-glass manufacturing plants using sheet drawing
machines.
Government.—1. National officers: President, secretary-treasurer, and execu­
tive board of four members. The president is the administrative head of
the organization, with comprehensive power. The executive board is advisory
to the president.
2. Local unions, or preceptories: Subordinate; regulations dictated by gen­
eral organization.
3. Initiative, referendum, and recall: General officers elected by referendum
and subject to recall. Constitutional amendments by initiative and referen­
dum. No convention.
Qualifications for membership.—The membership of the league shall be con­
fined to known practical window-glass cutters.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Apprentices must be between the ages of 16
and 30 and serve a term of three years. “ The president and executive board
shall be empowered to determine the percentage of apprentices and shall have
full authority over the apprentice system.” Brothers and sons of members
of the association are given preference in granting apprenticeships.
Agreements.—Work agreements and wage scales established by wage com­
mittee for each department in conference with committee representing manu­
facturers.
Benefits.—Death (member and wife).
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—Atlas Building, Columbus, Ohio.
Organization.—Locals or preceptories only: California, 1; Indiana, 1; Louis
iana, 2; Ohio, 2; Pennsylvania, 1; West Virginia, 8. Total, 10.
Membership.—500.

GLASS WORKERS, NATIONAL WINDOW
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1908. A window glass blowers’ union was
incorporated in the State of Pennsylvania in 1861. At a convention held in
Pittsburgh in July, 1874, the Artman’s Window Glass Workers’ Association
was established. Out of this grew, four years later, the window glass blowers*
organization within the Knights of Labor known as Local Assembly No. 300.




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151

Local Assembly No. 300 became a powerful organization in practical control
of the industry at one time.
The Amalgamated Window Glass Workers affiliated to the American Federa­
tion of Labor in 1907 and withdrew the following year. The present National
Window Glass Workers were a part of the Amalgamated Window Glass Workers
from the inception of the latter organization until 1908, when they withdrew
and formed the National Window Glass Workers. This was an independent
union until 1918, when it joined the American Federation of Labor as an
affiliated national union.
Objects.—“ The object and purpose of this association shall be to thoroughly
unite all window-glass workers, and to promote the interests and welfare of
its members and their dependents in such manner as may be advisable or neces­
sary, and not in conflict with the laws of State or country.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction—Window-glass manufacturing; covering blowers, gather­
ers, cutters, and flatteners.
Government.—General officers: President, secretary, treasurer, executive
board composed of two members from each trade, and a wage committee com­
posed of two members from each trade.
“ The executive board shall outline the policy of the association except where
otherwise provided, and shall issue and enforce a wage scale.” The president
“ shall rule on all questions of law in dispute * * * and shall have the
power to remove any local president for incompetency or neglect of duty.”
“ The matter of formulating a scale of wages and working rules shall be in
the hands of the wage committee, which shall have full authority.”
2. Local unions: Subordinate; local presidents commissioned by and subject
to the national executive board.
3. Initiative, referendum, and recall. No convention.
Qualifications for membership.—“ No person shall become a member of this
association who has not been in this country for a period of flve years and
become a citizen of the United States, except through consent of the executive
board.” Journeyman membership only.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ The admission fee of an apprentice shall be
$25. The executive board shall have authority to grant all apprentice cer­
tificates.
“ No member shall be granted an apprentice who is not in good standing in
the association.
“All apprentice applications must specify that the apprentice must learn
the trade of his master workman, but is not deprived of the privilege of learn­
ing blowing or gathering, if granted papers for either of those trades.”
Term of apprenticeship, three years.
Agreements.—National agreement negotiated annually by the wage committee
of the national union and the National Association of Window Glass Manu­
facturers.
Agreements cover hours (40-hour week), piece prices, and shop practices.
Benefits.—Death (member and wife).
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 712 Park Building, Cleveland, Ohio.
Organization.—Local unions only: Arkansas, 3; Pennsylvania, 2; West Vir­
ginia, 2; Wyoming, 1. Total, 8.
Membership—2,000.

GLASS WORKERS’ UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, AMERICAN FLINT
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Pittsburgh, Pa., July 1, 1878. Flint-glass workers were among
the first to organize assemblies under the Knights of Labor, but withdrew in
1878 and organized a craft union.
Objects.—The object of this order shall be the elevation of the position of
its members for maintenance of the best interests of the order, and all things
pertaining to the business in which all the members under its jurisdiction may
be involved.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of tableware, hotel ware, illuminating
wares, mold making, cutting, and engraving.

103312°—26----- 11




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TBADE-TJNIONS

Government.—1. Administrative officers: President, vice president, secretarytreasurer, assistant secretary-treasurer. “ The position of the president shall
be that of an executive * * ♦ and he shall have general superintendence
of the order.”
Executive board, composed of 65 members, representing all branches of the
trade and the various sections of the country, act as an advisory board to the
president.
2. Local unions: “A local union shall have full power to adopt such by­
laws or rules as may be deemed necessary, provided they are not in conflict
with this constitution.” Local by-laws and rules must be approved by the
national president.
3. Convention: Meets annually. “ The convention alone possesses power and
authority to amend or repeal the fundamental or general laws and regulations
of the union and fix the salaries of its officers.”
General officers elected, by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any workman who is connected with the
trade represented by this union, whether he is a blower, presser, finisher,
foot finisher, mold blower, gatherer, mold maker, cutter, engraver, or lamp
worker, and not under the age of 18 years, may become a member of this
union, providing said workman be a person of sober and industrious habits.”
Apprentice regulations.—“ No apprentices shall be taken into the union until
the expiration of their term of apprenticeship, unless for good and sufficient
reasons.
“ If any apprentice quits or leaves his place he shall not be allowed to
work in any other shop. Should the firm discharge him they shall not put
on another apprentice until the expiration of his term of apprenticeship.
“ In case of any manufacturer retiring, suspending, or otherwise stopping
the operation of his business, the national president shall have power to
grant the apprentices a card, providing they have worked two years or more
at the trade.”
Agreements.—National agreements covering the industry are negotiated
annually by representatives of the union and the organized manufacturers.
There are 15 departments in the industry and agreements covering each depart­
ment are made by representatives of that department
Benefits.—Strike, sick, and death.
Official organ.—The American Flint.
Headquarters.—The Ohio Building, Toledo, Ohio.
Organization.—Locals only: United States—Arkansas, 1; California, 2; Con­
necticut, 2; Illinois, 3; Indiana, 11; Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 6; Massachusetts,
3 ; Minnesota, 1; New Jersey, 6; New York, 6; Ohio, 20; Oklahoma, 4; Penn­
sylvania, 24; West Virginia, 30. Canada—Alberta, 1; Quebec, 1. Total, 122.
Membership.—6,900.

PAVING CUTTERS’ UNION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
AND CANADA, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Lithonia, Ga., in 1901/ The first national organization of pav­
ing cutters was formed at Baltimore, Md., in 1887, by representatives from local
unions in all the important centers of the industry. By 1892 the trade was
thoroughly organized. However, an extensive lockout throughout New England
in 1892 proved disastrous, and, being followed by the panic of 1893, wrecked
the union. Reorganization was not attempted until eight years later. Meeting
in Lithonia, Ga., in 1901, the paving cutters* unions then existing as directly
affiliated American Federation of Labor locals organized the present Interna­
tional Paving Cutters* Union.
Objects.—“ The objects of this union are to protect our trade from dangers
surrounding it, and by mutual effort to place ourselves on a foundation suf­
ficiently strong to prevent further encroachments on our calling. We propose
to encourage a higher standard, to cultivate a feeling of friendship among our
members, to assist each other to secure employment, to reduce the hours of
labor, and to secure adequate pay for our work; * * * to endeavor to bring
about the amalgamation of the trades engaged in the stone industry and to
secure legislation in the interest of the working masses.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ It is hereby declared and set forth that the Interna­
tional Paving Cutters’ Union has the right to cut all stone-paving blocks used




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163

for all paving purposes, which includes flanged, beveled, and all stone blocks
used in courts, alleys, yards, or streets for paving, for which paving cutters’
tools are used.”
Government.—1. “ The government and management of this union shall be
vested in a board of seven directors,” one of whom is the international presi­
dent, the other six being representatives elected by each of the six districts.
The president is the administrative and executive head, elected by referendum
of the whole membership, and is the only full-time salaried official.
2. Local unions: “ Branches,” largely autonomous, but under the direction
of the board member of their respective districts.
3. Initiative and referendum: International business referred to branches for
action; constitutional amendments either by referendum or by a committee
elected for that purpose. No convention.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Each branch shall be the judge of the
qualifications of all applicants for membership.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ No apprentice shall be less than 16 years of
age.” Two-year term.
“ Branches shall have the power to regulate the number of apprentices within
their jurisdiction, not to exceed 1 apprentice every 2 years to every 10 paving
cutters.
“Any member in good standing may employ an apprentice, but must first
obtain the sanction of his branch.”
Agreements.—A regional agreement between the international union and the
Granite Paving Block Manufacturers’ Association covers practically all of the
industry in New England. Elsewhere agreements are negotiated locally.
Contracts cover price lists for piecework, and shop conditions, and call for a
union shop and a 44-hour week.
Hours: Constitutional 44-hour week, 8 per day for first 5 days, 4 on Saturday.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death.
Official organ.—Union Journal.
Headquarters.—Rockport, Mass.
Organization.—Territorial districts:
District No. 1. Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont
District No. 2. New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Rhode Island,
Connecticut, and Michigan.
District No. 3. Canada east of British Columbia.
District No. 4. Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, District of Columbia, North
Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Ohio,
Indiana, and Louisiana.
District No. 5. Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa,
Nebraska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
District No. 6. Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah,
Idaho, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and California.
Local unions: United States—California, 1; Connecticut, 1; Delaware, 1;
Georgia, 4; Louisiana, 1; Maine, 11; Maryland, 2; Massachusetts, 8; Minnesota,
4; Missouri, 3 ; New Hampshire, 6; New Jersey, 2; New York, 6; North Caro­
lina, 4; Ohio, 2; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 6; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina,
1; Vermont, 1; Wisconsin, 4. Canada—Ontario, 1; Quebec, 3. Total, 75.
Membership.—2,400.

POTTERS, NATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF OPERATIVE
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at East Liverpool, Ohio, December 29, 1890.
Objects.—“ For the purpose of mutual protection, elevation, and relief of
operative potters and their families, and for the further purpose of coopera­
tion in any and all matters affecting the interests of their crafts.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The pottery industry.
Government.—1. Executive board, composed of president, seven vice presi­
dents, and secretary-treasurer.
Western general ware standing committee, consisting of three members
elected by local unions west of Alleghany Mountains.
Eastern general ware standing committee, consisting of three members
elected by local unions east of the Alleghany Mountains.
Sanitary standing committee, consisting of three members elected by the
workers in the sanitary branch.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-XJNIONS

The president is the administrative head of the organization. Executive
board acts in an advisory capacity.
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution and general working rules dic­
tated by national organization; but locals “ shall have full power to adopt
such by-laws and rules as may be deemed necessary, provided they are not in
conflict with the constitution of the national union.”
3. Convention: Held annually. “ The convention shall have power and
authority to make or repeal any laws deemed necessary.” General officers
elected by referendum. Legislation also by initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“All persons, male and female, who are con­
nected with any of the branches of the trade represented in the National
Brotherhood of Operative Potters and not under the age of 16 years may
becomc members of the order, providing such persons are of sober and indus­
trious habits.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—Vary with different branches of the trade. Five
years’ apprenticeship required for mold makers, dish makers, pressers, and
casters; three years for kilnmen, handlers, dippers, turners, sagger makers,
and packers; two years for jigger men.
In the dipping branch ,one apprentice is allowed for the first journeyman,
and one additional for every three journeymen additional.
In the turning branch one apprentice is allowed for the first journeyman,
a second apprentice to four journeymen, and one more for each additional three
journeymen.
Jiggers, 1 apprentice to 5 journeymen or less, 2 to every 10 journeymen, and
1 for every additional 5 journeymen.
Dish makers, one apprentice to each 3 journeymen or less, one apprentice
to every four journeymen; mold makers, one apprentice to every five journey­
men in the pressing and casting trades.
No journeyman may be discharged to make a place for an apprentice, but
additional apprentices may be put on if competent journeymen can not be
obtained.
Agreements.—Universal, negotiated by the officers of the national brother­
hood and the manufacturers’ association. Wage scales and price lists deter­
mined by national convention.
Benefits.—Strike, death, tuberculosis treatment; legal aid in case of serious
accident.
Official organ.—The Potters’ Herald (weekly).
Headquarters.—East Liverpool, Ohio.
Organization.—Locals organized by separate branches, or mixed: California,
4; Illinois, 1; Indiana 5; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 1; New
Jersey, 13; New York, 1; Ohio, 35; Pennsylvania, 7; Tennessee, 1; Virginia, 1;
West Virginia, 9. Total, 80.
Membership.—7,900.

QUARRY WORKERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Washington, D. C., September 8, 1903.
Objects.—“ The objects of this union are to rescue the trade from dangers
surrounding it and by mutual effort to place ourselves on a foundation suffi­
ciently strong to prevent further encroachment on our craft. We propose to
encourage a higher standard, to cultivate a feeling of friendship among our
members, to assist each other to secure employment, to reduce the hours of
daily labor, and to secure adequate pay for our work, and by legal and proper
means to elevate the moral, intellectual, and social conditions of our members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—North America.
Trade jurisdiction.—Quarrymen, quarry and paving cutter blacksmiths, derrickmen, engineers and firemen, steam-drill and air-drill runners, laborers, softstone quarrymen and channelers, rubbers, lumpers, and boxers, riggers of der­
ricks, cranes, or other devices used in handling stone, and stone derrick men
wherever employed.
Government.—1. “ For the government of this union there shall be elected an
executive board consisting of an international union president, international
secretary-treasurer, and an international union committee consisting of five
members.” The president and the committee are elected annually by the three
locals nearest the seat of government. The secretary-treasurer is elected bien­
nially by referendum. He is the administrative officer.




GLASS, CLAY, AND STONE

155.

2. Local unions: “All branches shall have power to make their own local
laws, provided they are approved by the international union committee and do
not conflict with the constitution; and such local laws shall be as binding on the
members of the branch as this constitution.”
3. Referendum: General business referred monthly to branches for action.
Convention only on referendum call. Constitutional amendments by initiative
and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Each branch shall be the judge of the quali­
fications of its membership.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ The terms of apprenticeship shall be regulated
by branches.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, subject to approval of the execu­
tive board, and must conform to State terms where such exist.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—Quarry Workers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—Barre, Vt.; subject to removal by referendum vote.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Arkansas, 1; California,
9; Connecticut, 3; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 2; Indiana, 6; Kentucky, 5; Maine, 22;
Massachusetts, 11; Minnesota, 5; Missouri, 4; New Hampshire, 7; New Jersey,
1; New York, 10; North Carolina, 1; Ohio, 10; Oklahoma, 3; Pennsylvania, 10;
Rhode Island, 3; South Dakota, 1; Texas, 1; Utah, 2; Vermont, 22; Virginia, 4;
Washington, 9; West Virginia, 3; Wisconsin, 7. Canada—Alberta, 2; British
Columbia, 6; Nova Scotia, 4; Ontario, 2 ; Quebec, 2. Total, 179.
Membership.—4,000.







LEATHER
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Boot and Shoe Workers' Union (classified under Clothing Trades)__________ ___ 119
Glove Workers' Union of American, International (classified under Clothing
Trades)------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -----125
Leather Workers' International Union of America, United_________________ ___ 157
Pocketbook Workers' Union, International________________________________ ___158
Independent organizations:
Leather Workers of America, International Union of United________________ ___158
Shoe Workers' Protective Union (classified under Clothing Trades)_________ ___128

LEATHER WORKERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF AMERICA,
UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Indianapolis, Ind., in April, 1917. Harness and saddlery work­
ers had two organizations, the United Brotherhood of Harness and Saddle
Workers and the National Association of Saddle and Harness Makers. These
two organizations merged in 1896 and became the United Brotherhood of
Leather Workers on Horse Goods, affiliated to the American Federation of
Labor.
Trunk and bag makers organized the Trunk and Bag Workers’ International
Union at Louisville, Ky., in 1895, and affiliated with the American Federation
of Labor in 1898. This organization increased its jurisdiction .extensively dur­
ing the following years, and in 1903 became the Travelers’ Goods and Leather
Novelty Workers’ International Union.
The Amalgamated Leather Workers of America, composed of tannery work­
ers, existed as a national union affiliated to the American Federation of Labor
from 1901 to 1912, when its charter was surrendered. From that time until
1917 such organization as existed among tannery workers was carried on
through directly affiliated American Federation of Labor locals.
In 1917 all of these organizations amalgamated into the present United
Leather Workers’ International Union.
Objects.—“ The object of this union is to establish and uphold a fair and
equitable rate of wages and decrease the hours of labor and regulate all trade
matters pertaining to the welfare of its members; to educate the wage earner
in all economic questions that are necessary to better the conditions of the
wageworkers and to elevate their positions and to maintain and protect the
interest of the craft in general.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The production or transportation of leather or by­
products thereof,” except gloves and shoes. Specifically, tanneries and the
manufacture of harness and saddlery, travelers’ goods, pocketbooks and leather
novelties, and machinery belts.
Government.—1. National executive board, composed of nine elected members,
has executive authority over the organization. The secretary-treasurer is the
administrative officer.
2. Local unions: Autonomous within the limits defined by the national con­
stitution.
3. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention or referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person employed within the jurisdiction
is eligible to membership. Male and female membership. Classification: Full
benefit, limited benefit, female, and apprentice members.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Three-year term; 1 apprentice to 10 journeymen.
Agreements.—Negotiated locally with individual employers. Contracts call
for basic 8-hour day with Saturday half-holiday; overtime rates (double time
for Sundays and holidays); time rates and piece prices.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout (by assessment) ; sick; death.




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Official organ.—Leather Workers’ Journal (bimonthly).
Headquarters.—Walsix Building, Kansas City, Mo.
Organization.—Locals only, organized into separate craft branches where
possible: United States—Arkansas, 1; California, 2; Colorado, 2; Connecticut,
1; Delaware, 1; Illinois, 5; Indiana, 1; Iowa, 1; Kentucky, 2; Kansas, 1;
Massachusetts, 3; Minnesota, 1; Missouri, 6; Montana, 1; New Hampshire, 1;
New Jersey, 2; New York, 1 Ohio. 4; Oklahoma, 1; Pennsylvania, 1; Ten­
nessee, 1; Texas, 2; Washington, 1; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 3. Porto
Rico, 1. Canada—Alberta, 1; Ontario, 2; Quebec, 1. Total, 51.
Membership.—2,000.

LEATHER WORKERS OF AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL UNION OF
UNITED
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
The International Union of United Leather Workers of America is an
organization operating only in the Massachusetts tanneries. It has three
locals, with headquarters in Peabody, and a membership of about 2,000.

POCKETBOOK WORKERS' UNION, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor as a Federal labor union.
Organized in New York City, on October 23, 1923. Efforts to organize
pocketbook workers, dating from 1904 to 1915, were sporadic and unsuccess­
ful, ending generally in a disastrous strike. Domestic manufacture of
hand bags, pocketbooks, and leather novelties developed greatly after im­
portation was stopped by the European war. In 1915, because of the growth
of the industry, organization was again attempted and a union was formed
in New York City as a local of the Travelers’ Goods and Leather Novelty
Workers’ Union. This movement gained ground but resulted in another
unsuccessful strike in 1916 and the demoralization of the newly formed local
union. Reviving somewhat the next year, organization was again under­
taken, this time as an independent movement. By the end of the year several
shops were completely organized and working under agreements. Reaching
out to the shops outside New York City, the organization established itself
as an international in October, 1923, and applied to the American Federa­
tion of Labor for a charter of affiliation.
Affiliation as an international was denied, however, because the charter
of the United Leather Workers* International Union, which is an amalgamation
of the former Travelers’ Goods and Leather Novelty Workers’ International
Union and the union of horse goods workers, grants to that organization
jurisdiction over the manufacture of pocketbooks and leather novelties.
Contending that there was no relation between the kinds of work done by
workers in the two organizations, that pocketbook making involves cloth
fabrics and other materials of many kinds as well as leather, and is in effect
a needle trade, the International Pocketbook Workers’ Union refused to merge
with the luggage and saddlery workers. It continued to seek affiliation with
the American Federation of Labor, however. By a compromise this was ac­
complished early in 1926, when the pocketbook workers’ union was chartered
as a Federal labor union with jurisdiction “ over workers employed in the
manufacture of ladies’ hand bags, pocketbooks, bill folds, coin purses, card
cases, cigar and cigarette cases, and small leather novelties, in Greater New
York, the immediate vicinity thereto in the State of New Jersey, and in the
city of Philadelphia.”
Objects.—“ For the purpose of securing for the workers an ever-increasing
share of the material goods of the world, of the intellectual and spiritual
attainments of civilization; * * * to secure our rights as producers and
to bring about a system of society wherein the workers shall receive the full
value of their product.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The production of ladies* hand bags, pocketbooks, and
novelties of ail materials, such as silks, velvet, embroidered cloth, satin, and
all kinds of fancy leathers.”
Government.—1. General executive board is the executive and judicial body.
2. Joint executive boards: Delegate bodies composed of delegates from
each section. “ The primary object of the joint executive board shall be to




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attend to complaints of members against their employers, to supervise and
control union shops.”
3. Trade sections, governed by section committees.
4. Shop organizations, under control of shop chairman.
5. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments. by convention only.
Qualifications for membership.—All workers in the trade over 16 years of
age, except foremen and forewomen who have the power to hire and dis­
charge, and members of State militia, constabulary, etc., are eligible to
membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Pocketbook makers serve for two years as past­
ers, then for one or two as helpers, before becoming journeymen. “ No pocketbook maker can employ more than two helpers.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by adjustment committees with employers, either
organized or independent. At present one agreement covers all establish­
ments operated by members of the manufacturers’ association, and similar
agreements cover many independent shops.
Contracts call for closed shop, joint arbitration committee with impartial
chairman, shop sanitation, division of work in dull season; and cover hours,
overtime regulations and pay, minimum wage scales for week work and price
lists for piecework, and weekly pay day.
Benefits.—Strike; relief (sick, accident, etc.).
Official organ.—The International Pocketbook Worker (irregular).
Headquarters.—No. 11 West Eighteenth Street, New York City.
Organization.—Industrial; unit of organization is the shop. Trade sections:
Cutters, operators, pocketbook makers, framers, purse makers, handle and
mirror workers, general'workers—each section represented on joint executive
board.
Membership.—6,000.







WOODWORKING
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Carpenters and Joiners of America, United Brotherhood of (classified under
Building Trades)_____________________________________________________
Carvers’ Association of North America, International Wood________________
Coopers* International Union of North America____________________________
Piano, Organ, and Musical Instrument Workers, International Union of_____
Upholsterers’ International Union of North America_______________________
Independent organizations:
Loggers and Lumbermen, Loyal Legion of (classified under Mining, Oil,
and Lumber)----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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CARVERS’ ASSOCIATION OF NORTH AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
WOOD
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1883, in Philadelphia, Pa. Wood carvers in New York City
organized as early as 1863. This organization was one of five which sent rep­
resentatives to a gathering in Philadelphia in January, 1883, to make prepara­
tions for a general convention of the craft to be held later in the year. This
convention took place in Cincinnati in October, and established the National
Wood Carvers’ Association of North America. With the spread of the organi­
zation into Canada the name was changed a few years later to the present
one, the International Wood Carvers’ Association of North America.
Objects.—“ The objects of this association are to advance the material inter­
ests of wood carvers by regulating the apprentice system, maintaining an effi­
cient system of insurance of the tools of all members of the several associa­
tions affiliated with the international association, abolish contract and piece­
work, and to establish a normal 8-hour day.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Wood carving by hand, machine, or spindle.
Government.—1. The central committee, consisting of chairman, secretary,
treasurer, and three trustees, ‘‘ shall be elected by the branch of the city,
town, or village elected by referendum vote to be the seat of the central com­
mittee,” and “ shall conduct the business of the international association.”
A board of supervisors of five members “ shall be elected by the branch of
the city, town, or village elected by referendum vote as the seat of the board
of supervisors” and “ shall control the action of the central committee in its
administration.”
2. Local unions: “Affiliated” ; autonomy not definitely fixed, but they are
largely self-governing.
3. Referendum: International association business, constitutional amend­
ments, and selection of governing branches, by vote of general membership.
Convention on referendum call only.
Qualifications for membership.—Any hand, spindle, or machine wood carver
of good character who is or has declared his intention of becoming a citizen o f
the country in which he works, is eligible to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Four-year term. “ Firms employing on an aver­
age during the year 5 men shall be entitled to 1 apprentice; those employing
on an average 10 men, to 2 apprentices; those employing on an average 15 men,
to 3 apprentices, and for each additional 25 men there shall be allowed one
more apprentice.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions and local employers.
Benefits.—Strike; tool insurance.
Official organ.—The International Wood Carver.
Headquarters.—No. 8605 Eighty-fifth Street, Woodhaven, Long Island, N. Y.
(variable).
.
Organization.—Local branches only: United States—California, 2; Con­
necticut, 1; Illinois. 2; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, I ; Michigan, 2 ; Minne­




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sota, 1; New York, 5; Ohio, 3; Pennsylvania, 2; Wisconsin, 1. Canada—Que­
bec, 1. Total, 22.
Membership.—1,100.

COOPERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Titusville, Pa., on November 10, 1890. A national organiza­
tion known as the Coopers of North America existed in 1870, but died out.
It seems to have survived locally in a number of localities. The present or­
ganization was founded by representatives of some 10 or 12 local unions,
which formed the national organization in 1890. This organization was char­
tered by the American Federation of Labor as an affiliated union in 1891.
A long-fought jurisdictional dispute with the United Brewery Workmen
over cooperage work in breweries is the outstanding incident in the history
of the Coopers* International Union. The termination of the dispute left a
very material part of the cooperage work in the hands of workers belonging to
the United Brewery Workmen. With the decline of the industry with prohi­
bition the union’s field has become very limited,
Objects.—“ To make industrial worth, not wealth, the true standard of indi­
vidual and national greatness; to prohibit the employment of children under
16 years of age in shops and factories; to gain some of the benefits of laborsaving machinery by a gradual reduction of hours of labor; to use all lawful
and honorable means in our power to abolish the system of contract convict
labor in the different States where it exists; and to abolish convict cooper shops
in State penitentiaries; * * * to encourage the adoption of proper appren­
tice laws governing all branches of mechanical industry, as we believe that such
would tend to elevate the standard of mechanism of America; to demand better
sanitary conditions for coopers employed in breweries, packing and provision
houses, oil houses, and in all places where a large number of men are em­
ployed; to secure from employers agreements recognizing the Coopers’ Inter­
national Union of North America, regulating prices, and to settle by arbitration
all differences between employers and employees not specifically covered in
such agreements; to cooperate with employers to advance the price of making
and selling of barrels when practicable; to secure employment of our members
in preference to nonunion men * * *; to use all honorable means at our
command to achieve the purposes herein declared.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture and repair of cooperage, staves, and
heading, either by hand or by machinery.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, secretarytreasurer, and five vice presidents, “ shall have general supervision over the
international union.”
2. Local unions: Each local union shall have autonomy over its own affairs,
and shall make its own contracts governing hours of labor, working conditions,
and scale of wages.”
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments either by convention or by initiative and refer­
endum.
Qualifications for membership.—An applicant for membership “ must be an
American citizen or declare his or her intentions to become one as soon as
possible. * * * women over 18 years of age may be admitted to member­
ship under the same laws as male members.”
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ No member of any local shall take an appren­
tice without the consent of his local, and in no case shall he be allowed to
take an apprentice under 16 .years of age; and no more than one apprentice
for every 10 hand coopers shall be allowed, said apprentice to serve his time
of three years at the bench, the local to decide what wages he shall receive
while serving his apprenticeship.”
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions independently, but must be approved
by general executive board. Union label under control of international.
Agreements cover piece and hourly rates of pay, hours, and overtime regula­
tions.
Hours: Constitutional 8-hour day; 44-hour week by agreement.
Benefits.—Strike; death.
Official organ.—Coopers* Journal.
Headquarters.—Meriweather Building, Kansas City, Kans.



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Organization.—Local unions only: United States—^California, 1; Illinois, 5;
Indiana, 1; Iowa, 1; Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts,
3; Minnesota, 3; Missouri, 4; Nebraska, 1; New Jersey, 1; New York, 5; Ohio,
3; Oklahoma, 1; Pennsylvania, 7; Rhode Island, 1; Tennessee, 2; Texas, 4;
Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 3; Washington, 2. Canada—Quebec, 1. Total, 53.
Membership.—1,215.

PIANO, ORGAN, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENT WORKERS, INTER­
NATIONAL UNION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., August 8, 1898, as the International Union of
Piano and Organ Workers of America. Later, jurisdiction was extended to
include talking machines and the name of the organization was changed to
International Union of Piano, Organ, and Musical Instrument Workers.
Objects.—Not declared.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The piano, organ, and musical instrument industry.
Government.—1. Executive board, consisting of president and nine vice presi­
dents has executive control of the organization.
2. Local unions: Autonomy only as regards local trade conditions. Funds of
local organizations subject to regulations of the general executive board.
3. Convention: Held quadrennially; enacts legislation and elects general
officers. Constitutional amendments by convention and referendum or by
initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“All persons engaged in the piano, organ, or
musical-instrument industry of good moral character and competent workmen
at their branch of the trade shall be eligible to membership, except superin­
tendents.” Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Constitutional regulation: “ Local unions shall
have power to stipulate number of apprentices under their respective juris­
diction. Manufacturers who do not employ at least one journeyman for his
full time shall not be allowed an apprentice.” In practice, none.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; sick; death.
Official organ.—Piano, Organ, and Musical Instrument Workers* Official
Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 260 East One hundred and thirty-eighth Street, New York.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—California, 1; Kentucky.
1; Illinois, 2; New York, 3; Ohio, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 2. Canada—
Ontario, 1. Total, 12.
Membership.—600.

UPHOLSTERERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., August 8, 1892. The first upholsterers’ union
of record conducted a successful general strike in New York City in 1850.
Organization of the craft was sporadic and localized until 1892, when eight
unions combined in a conference held in Chicago and founded the Upholsterers’
International Union of North America. It was chartered by the American
Federation of Labor as an affiliated international in 1900.
Objects.—“ The objects of the Upholsterers’ International Union are: To
secure adequate pay for our work; to reduce the hours of daily labor; to
discourage piecework; to encourage an apprentice system and a higher stand­
ard of skill; to assist each other to secure employment ;• to cultivate feelings
of friendship among the craft and by legal and proper means to elevate the
moral, intellectual, and social conditions of all our membership and to improve
the trade.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The hanging, cutting, measuring, estimating, and sew­
ing of draperies, curtains, wall hangings, window shades, and awnings; cutting
and sewing of furniture covering and slip covers; cutting, sewing, and making
of cushions; slatting walls for hanging of fabrics tacked on walls, bunting and
flag decorating; drilling holes in stone, metal, cement, wood, etc., for the
purpose of installing or attaching fixtures, which are a part of the equipment
used with the work enumerated; upholstering of furniture, sleeping cars,




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

day coaches, machine and*hand tufted pads, cushions, and casket trimmings;
automobile, carriage, and aircraft upholstery and trimming; automobile top
making; cutting and making of slip covers for automobiles and carriages and
sewing of materials used in connection with such work; linoleum cutting,
measuring, and laying, laying of everlastic linoleum, dreadnought linoleum,
cork, and rubber tile; laying of matting and other floor coverings; laying,
cutting, measuring, and sewing of carpets; mattress making and box-spring
making; sewing of material used by different branches of the craft”
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, vice presi­
dent, treasurer, and one member representing, respectively, the upholstery
sewers, the carpet sewers, the carpet upholsterers, the mattress workers, and
the wholesale upholsterers, “ shall have general supervision of the union
between conventions.”
2. Local unions: Subordinate; constitution, dues, and regulations dictated
by international. Local unions may adopt by-laws for local government,
subject to the approval of the general executive board.
3. Convention: Held biennially, unless otherwise ordered by referendum.
Enacts legislation and elects general officers. If convention is not held, elec­
tion is by referendum. Constitutional amendments by convention, or by
initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person actually employed within the
jurisdiction is eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ The number of apprentices allowed in each
shop shall be fixed by the local union having jurisdiction.” Provided for in
agreements. Apprenticeship term, two to five years.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, with approval of the general execu­
tive board. Generally involve only individual employers.
Agreements cover hours (44 or 40 hour w eek); union shop; overtime regula­
tions and rates (frequently double tim e); ratio of apprentices, sanitary condi­
tions of shops and materials. Union label.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout.
Official organ.—Upholsterers' Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 230 East Fifty-eighth Street, New York City.
Organization.—Local unions only; “ mixed” locals of all branches are the
rule; separate organizations for mattress makers, wholesale upholsterers, etc.,
exist in some large centers. United /States—Arkansas, 1; California, 12; Colo­
rado, 1; Connecticut, 1; District of Columbia, 3; Illinois, 5; Indiana, 2; Iowa,
1; Kentucky, 1; Maine, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 6; Michigan, 2; Min­
nesota, 2; Missouri, 3; Nebraska, 1; New Jersey, 2; New York, 10; Ohio, 4 ;
Oklahoma, 1; Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 7; Rhode Island, 2; Virginia, 1; Wash­
ington, 3; Wisconsin, 1. Canada—British Columbia, 2; Ontario, 2; Quebec, 1.
Total, 81.
Membership.—12,000.




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Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
American Federation of Labor locals____________________________________
Federal Employees, National Federation of-----------------------------------------------Fire Fighters, International Association of________________________________Pavers, Rammermen, Flaggers, Bridge and Stone Curb Setters, International
Union of______________________________________________________________
Teachers, American Federation of-------------------------------------------------------------Independent organizations:
*Policewomen, International Association of------------------------------------------------United States Post Office:
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Mail Association, Railway___________________________________________
Post Office Clerks, National Federation of___________________________
Letter Carriers, National Association of______________________________
Rural Letter Carriers, National Federation of________________________
Independent organizations:
Postmasters of the United States, National Association of-------------------Postmasters of the United States, National League of District__________
Postmasters’ Association of the United States, Service------------------------Mail Service, National Council of Supervisory Officials of the Railway—
Postal Supervisors, National Association of___________________________
Post Office Clerks of the United States, The United National Association
of-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Rural Letter Carriers’ Association, National_________________________
Postal Employees, National Alliance of______________________________
Post Office Laborers of the United States, National Association of-------

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177
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FEDERAL EMPLOYEES, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized September 24, 1917. The first organization of departmental civilservice employees, outside the Postal Service, was formed in Washington, D. C.,
in March, 1916, at a mass meeting held to protest against the “ Borland rider,”
an amendment to the general appropriation bill which provided for an increase
in hours in the departmental service. The organization thus established was
chartered by the American Federation of Labor as a directly affiliated local
union.
Organization of Government clerks spread rapidly in the two years follow­
ing the inception of the movement, and in 1917 a national organization com­
posed of about 50 American Federation of Labor locals was established under
the name of National Federation of Federal Employees.
Objects.—“ The objects of this federation shall be to advance the social and
economic welfare and education of the employees of the United States and to
aid in the perfection of systems that will make for greater efficiency in the
various services of the United States.
“ The methods for attaining these objects shall be by petition to Congress,
by creating and fostering public sentiment favorable to proposed reforms, by
cooperation with Government officials and employees, by legislation, and other
lawful means: Provided, That under no circumstances shall this federation
engage in or support strikes against the United States Government.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and insular possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—The United States Government service, exclusive of the
Postal Service, and the District of Columbia government service.
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of president, secretary-treasurer,
and nine vice presidents. “ Subject to the convention, the executive council
shall be the governing body of, and direct the policies of, this federation.”
2. Local unions: “ Each local union may adopt a constitution and by-laws,
which shall become effective only upon approval of the executive council of the
federation.”
3. Convention: Meets biennially; elects general officers, enacts legislation,
and determines policies. (Convened annually from 1917 to 1923, when change
was made to biennial.)




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Initiative, referendum, and recall. Constitutional amendments by conven­
tion or initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person employed in the civil branch
of the United States Government, the District of Columbia, or the insular
possessions except those in the Postal Service (not including those in the
executive department), and those exclusively eligible to membership in any
other existing national or international organizations affiliated to the American
Federation of Labor, is eligible to membership.” Male and female membership.
Agreements.—None. Salaries, hours, working conditions, etc., controlled by
legislation.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The Federal Employee.
Headquarters.—Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—State associations (affiliation optional on part of locals):
Texas; New England Conference; District Federation of Federal Employees
(comprising all locals in District of Columbia).
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 6; Arizona, 14; Arkansas, 2; Cali­
fornia, 10; Colorado, 7; Connecticut, 3; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 10;
‘Florida, 5; Georgia, 7; Idaho, 3; Illinois, 6; Indiana, 4; Iowa, 4; Kansas, 5;
Kentucky, 2; Louisiana, 2; Maine, 3; Maryland, 15; Massachusetts, 5; Michi­
gan, 6; Minnesota, 10; Missouri, 4; Mississippi, 3; Montana, 10; Nebraska, 5;
Nevada, .1; New Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 9; New Mexico, 8; New York, 12;
North Carolina, 4; North Dakota, 7; Ohio, 6; Oklahoma, 11; Oregon, 5; Penn­
sylvania, 9; Rhode Island, 2; South Carolina, 1; South Dakota, 12; Tennessee,
5; Texas, 10; Utah, 4; Vermont, 2; Virginia, 12; Washington, 10; West
Virginia, 4; Wisconsin, 6; Wyoming. 2; Canal Zone, 1; Porto Rico, 1; Philip­
pine Islands, 3; Virgin Islands, 1; Hawaii, 1; Alaska, 2 ; Cuba, 1 ; Canada—
Winnipeg and Montreal, 2. Total, 307.
Membership.—37,000.

FIRE FIGHTERS, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized February 28, 1918. The first organization of fire fighters to be
formed was in Washington, D. C., in 1901, and chartered as a directly affiliated
union of the American Federation of Labor. Firemen of other cities organized
from time to time in the same manner, and in 1918 delegates from the various
unrelated American Federation of Labor unions met in Washington and estab­
lished the International Association of Fire Fighters.
Objects.—“ The objects of this association shall be to organize all fire fighters;
to place its members on a higher plane of skill and efficiency; to encourage the
formation of local unions; to encourage the formation of sick and death benefit
funds in order that we may properly care for our sick and bury our dead; to
encourage the establishment of schools of instruction for imparting knowledge
of modern and improved methods of fire fighting and prevention, the cultiva­
tion of friendship and fellowship among its members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, and Panama.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All persons engaged in fire fighting, prevention, operators
of fire fighting auxiliary apparatus who are permanent and paid employees, in­
cluding the following: Chief engineer, fire marshal (not including shipyards),
deputy chiefs, assistant chiefs, district chiefs, battalion chiefs, captains, lieu­
tenants, privates, hose men, plugmen, ladder men, water-tower men, engineers
and assistant engineers, stokers of fire engines, steam, electric, or gas and oil
motive power; chauffeurs, drivers and assistants of fire engines, hose wagons,
hose carriages, chiefs automobile or carriage, fuei wagons, repair and supply
wagons, horse or motor driven; fire-alarm operators and assistants, and linemen
who operate fire-alarm apparatus, both telegraph and telephone; fire inspection
and prevention force; all repairmen of fire apparatus and auxiliaries who are
subject to fire duty; salvage corps, squadmen, pilots, marine engineers, and
marine firemen who are subject to fire fighting and prevention.”
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, secretarytreasurer, and 13 vice presidents, “ shall, in the interval between conventions,
have full and complete charge of all business of the association not otherwise
provided for.”
2.
Local unions: Subordinate unions “ shall have the right to make their own
constitution and by-laws, provided that such constitution and by-laws do hot
conflict with those of the parent body.”




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3. Convention: Meets annually; elects general officers and enacts legislation.
Initiative, referendum, and recall.
Qualifications for membership.—Any regular paid worker in the municipal
fire service is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—None. Regulated by municipal law. Canadian unions have
guaranties against salary reduction or repeal of beneficial legislation.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The International Fire Fighter.
Headquarters.—American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—State associations: Ohio, Washington, British Columbia Pro­
vincial Association, Alberta and Saskatchewan Provincial Association.
Local unions: United States—Alabama, 1; Arkansas, 3; California, 4; Colo­
rado, 2; Georgia, 1; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 11; Indiana, 1; Iowa, 8; Kansas, 6; Ken­
tucky, 3; Massachusetts, 8; Minnesota, 4; Mississippi, 4; Missouri, 6; Montana,
3 ; New Jersey, 1; New York, 6; North Carolina, 1; Ohio, 21; Oklahoma, 8;
Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 7; South Carolina, 1; Tennessee, 1; Texas, 5; Utah,
1; Washington, 4; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 6; Canal Zone, 1. Canada—
Alberta, 4; British Columbia, 5; Ontario, 6; Quebec, 2; New Brunswick, 1;
Saskatchewan, 3. Total, 152.
Membership.—20,000.

PAVERS, RAMMERMEN, FLAGGERS, BRIDGE AND STONE CURB
SETTERS, INTERNATIONAL UNION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized August 28, 1905.
Objects.—“ We declare to the world that our aims are: First, to establish an
international union of pavers, rammermen, asphalt workers, mastic asphalt
workers, asphalt block, brick, iron slag and wood-block pavers, flaggers, bridge
and stone curb setters, by which we may more closely combine the street
building industry within our jurisdiction; second, to protect our industrial
interests by close mutual intercourse; third, to abolish the 10-hour working
system, and also the subcontract system, and to establish a new schedule or
system in vogue by the General Government; fourth, to persuade employers to
agree to arbitrate all differences which may arise between them and their
employees, in order that the bonds of sympathy between them may be strength­
ened and that strikes may be avoided; to secure to its members the full enjoy­
ment of the profits of their labor, sufficient leisure in which to develop their
intellectual, moral, and social faculties by association; in a word, to enable
them to share in the gains and honors of advancing civilization.” (Preamble
to constitution.)
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All paving and ramming of streets, highways, roadways,
and alleys, and repairs of the same and other places where the laying of
granite, cobblestone, bluestone, asphalt block, sheet asphalt, wood block, brick,
bitulithic, curb, bridge, and flag and mastic asphalt, and other materials used
for surface finishing of streets, etc.”
Government.—1. “ The government and management of the international
union shall be vested in the executive board,” composed of president, eight vice
presidents, general secretary, and treasurer.
The president is the chief organizer.
2. District council, composed of three or more locals in a locality, “ shall
be the tribunal on all trade matters in said locality, and all local unions
affiliated shall be required to conform to all laws and mandates of said body,
and all business transacted in any such district council shall be mandatory on
all local unions affiliated therewith.”
3. Local unions: Subordinate; chartered and grouped according to class of
work performed by members.
4. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person engaged in work covered by juris­
diction is eligible to membership. Men employed as foremen are admitted if
they are under civil service.
Agreements.—No information.
Benefits.—Strike.
103312°— 26------ 12




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Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 336 East Fifty-ninth Street, New York City.
Organization.—Not reported.
Membership.—Not reported; American Federation of Labor voting strength,

2 ,000.

POLICEWOMEN, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
. Organized in Baltimore, Md., in 1915.
Objects.—“ The object of this association shall be to fix standards for the
service of policewomen, to secure proper training, to inspire the appointment
of qualified policewomen, to encourage the establishment of women’s bureaus
in the police departments, to work for the general improvement of the service,
and to promote such service internationally.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Policewomen, police matrons, jail matrons, and public
social service agents.
Government.—Executive board, consisting of president, vice president, and
secretary, is the administrative body. Advisory committee of six is policyformulating body. Regional chairmen (seven) are local executives.
2. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention only.
General membership organization. No local unions. All members in good
standing are entitled to a seat, voice, and vote in convention.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Membership shall be open to policewomen,
police matrons, and all others interested in the purposes of the organization.”
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—Bulletin.
Headquarters.—Evening Star Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—General membership organization. Regional divisions are:
1. New England; 2. New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, Delaware,
District of Columbia; 3. Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi,
Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina; 4. Illinois, Indiana,
Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Wisconsin; 5. Iowa, Minnesota, Mon­
tana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming; 6. Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas,
Nebraska, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas; 7. California, Washington,
Oregon, Utah, Idaho, Nevada, and Arizona.
Membership.—300.

TEACHERS, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., on April 15, 1916. The national organization
when founded was composed of eight groups of teachers in various cities who
had been previously organized as directly affiliated American Federation of
Labor local unions. At the instigation of the Chicago locals a conference was
held and federation effected. Later the new organization was chartered by the
American Federation of Labor as an affiliated national union.
Objects.—“ The objects of this organization shall be: To bring associations
of teachers into relations of mutual assistance and cooperation; to obtain for
them all the rights to which they are entitled; to raise the standard of the
teaching profession by securing the conditions necessary to the best profes­
sional services; to promote such a democratization of the schools as will enable
them better to equip their pupils to take their places in the industrial, social,
and political life of the community.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—The United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The teaching staffs of public schools.
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of president, secretary-treasurer,
and 11 vice presidents, shall carry out the instructions of the national conven­
tions and “ shall have power to deal with all the affairs of the federation
between conventions.”
2. Local unions: Autonomy not defined.
3. Convention: Meets annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments either by convention or referendum vote.




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Qualifications for membership.—Any publlc-school teacher who has classroom
work and who has no disciplinary or rating power over other teachers, is eli­
gible to membership. Male and female membership.
Public-school principals, assistants to principals, heads of departments, or
other supervising officers except superintendents may be chartered separately
with the consent of the unions of classroom teachers within the jurisdiction.
Agreements.—None. Salaries, regulations, working conditions, etc., controlled
by municipal government through the boards of education.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—Monthly Bulletin.
Headquarters.—No. 327 South La Salle Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Locals may include all members in a city, or may be divided
on basis of high-school and grade-school teachers, or male teachers and female
teachers: California, 5; District of Columbia, 1; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 5; Indiana,
1; Minnesota, 3; New Jersey, 3; New York, 6; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 1:
South Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 1; Wisconsin, 1. Total, 30.
Membership.—3,500.

U NITED STATES POST OFFICE
HISTORY OF POST-OFFICE ORGANIZATIONS

The National Association of Letter Carriers was organized in Boston in
1890. The first three years were characterized largely by dissension between
groups inside and outside of the Knights of Labor. Two publications were
maintained, The Postal Record of the independents, and The Postman, of the
Knights of Labor. Gradual absorption and the decline of the Knights of
Labor resulted in a more unified organization, and by 1900 its ranks included
practically all those eligible to membership.
A clerk at the post office in Louisville, Ky., organized the clerks in that
office in 1883, and by correspondence brought representatives of several offices
together in Washington in 1884. This group remained for several years merely
a loosely organized legislative committee.
The New York post-office clerks organized in 1888, and called a delegate
conference in Washington in 1889. This meeting issued a call to all first-class
post offices to meet in 1890. This call was almost generally responded to, and
in February, 1890, the National Association of Post Office Clerks was organized.
Dissension over the admission of supervisors and the activities of New
York Branch 187, composed of chiefs and supervisors, involving the “ promotion
syndicate” scandal, led to a schism and the formation of the United Associa­
tion of Post Office Clerks. After two years of fighting, with the new organi­
zation encroaching on the rank and file of the old, a merger was effected in
1899 under the name of the United National Association of Post Office Clerks
(the Unapoc).
Meanwhile Chicago had remained outside both groups. In 1900 the organ­
ized clerks at the Chicago post office were chartered as a local union in direct
affiliation with the American Federation of Labor. As a result of a bolt from
the Unapoc convention of 1905, involving the conservative policies of the
officials, and with the Chicago union as a nucleus, the National Federation of
Post Office Clerks was formed in 1906 and chartered by the American Federa­
tion of Labor. This was the first step toward identification of the postal
employees with the organized labor movement.
The National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association was organized in Chicago
in 1903. The national body was chiefly a federation of State organizations,
which in turn were composed of county units. Its rallying and organizing
medium was the R. F. D. News, a publication owned, edited, and controlled
by an individual who had no connection with the Rural Mail Service but
this publication became, nevertheless, the official organ of the National
Rural Letter Carriers’ Association. At its peak of organization the associa­
tion contained 60 per cent of the rural mail carriers. Following the sale of
the R. F. D. News, disaffection set in and grew to the point of revolt in 1920,
when the National Federation of Rural Letter Carriers was formed and
affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. Both organizations continue
to exist.
The organization of railway mail clerks began in 1897 as a mutual insur­
ance concern, prompted by the hazards of the work and the prohibitive




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insurance rates charged by private insurance companies. In 1904 the scope
was widened and th e. organization became the Railway Mail Association.
Division chiefs and the general superintendent of railway mails were members
of the organization.
An insurgent movement within the body, under the leadership of Carl Van
Dyke, resulted in the organization of the Brotherhood of Railway Mail Clerks.
Central labor unions in 12 cities organized the railway mail clerks into directly
affiliated American Federation of Labor locals, which, brought together in
1914, were chartered by the American Federation of Labor as a national under
the name of Van Dyke’s organization, the Brotherhood of Railway Mail
Clerks. It was, however, largely a dual membership organization, composed
of the militants in the Railway Mail Association, who, nevertheless, retained
their Railway Mail Association membership because of its beneficial and insur­
ance features.
In 1917 the Brotherhood of Railway Mail Clerks amalgamated with the
National Federation of Post Office Clerks under the name of National Federa­
tion of Postal Employees.
This organization began organizing locals of letter carriers and chartering
them under its jurisdiction, with the declared intention of bringing all postal
employment under one union. The result of this move was to bring the
National Association of Letter Carriers into affiliation with the American Fed­
eration of Labor in 1917 in order to hold its jurisdiction, and the National
Federation of Postal Employees surrendered its carrier members. City letter
carriers are now practically completely organized as an American Federation
of Labor affiliated union.
In December, 1917, the Railway Mail Association followed the example of
the National Association of Letter Carriers and affiliated. The National Fed­
eration of Postal Employees then released its railway clerks (former mem­
bers of the Brotherhood of Railway Mail Clerks) to the Railway Mail Associa­
tion and reverted to its old title of National Federation of Post Office Clerks.
In 1917, also, the United National Association of Post Office Clerks suggested
affiliation with the American Federation of Labor, but this could not be granted
because the National Federation of Post Office Clerks held the charter for
that jurisdiction. Conferences between the two organizations looking toward
a merger came to nothing, and they remain distinct and antagonistic organiza­
tions in the same field.
The Railway Mail Association does not admit negroes to membership,
although the other postal organizations do so. In 1913 the National Alliance of
Postal Employees was organized by the colored postal men. It is composed
chiefly of men in the Railway Mail Service, but its jurisdiction is not restricted
to any one branch, its aim being one organization for all colored workers in
the Postal Service. It is not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
The National Association of Post Office Laborers is another independent
organization, unaffiliated, but which works in cooperation and harmony with
the big postal unions.
National Service Relations Council
Under Postmaster General Will Hays the Post Office Department launched
a movement for the organization of local welfare councils within the service,
to be federated into a national council. In 1921 the National Welfare Council
was formed. This became, in 1923, the National Service Relations Council of
the Post Office Department.
As at present constituted, it is composed of delegates from the National
League of District Postmasters, National Association of Postmasters, National
Association of Postal Supervisors, National Council of Supervisory Officials
of the Railway Mail Service, Railway Mail Association, National Federaton
of Post Office Clerks, United National Association of Post Office Clerks. National
Association of Letter Carriers, National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association,,
and the National Association of Post Office Laborers.
Three national postal organizations are not represented in the National
Service Relations Council. These are the National Federation of Rural LetterCarriers, which is affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, and two
colored organizations, the National Alliance of Postal Employees, and the
National Federation of Post Office Laborers.




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POSTMASTERS OF THE UNITED STATES, NATIONAL ASSOCIA­
TION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Object.—“ The object of this association is to aid in the improvement of the
Postal Service of the United States, and for the mutual interchange of ideas
of members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—First and second class post offices (“ presidential” post­
masters).
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, 15 vice presi­
dents, secretary, treasurer, and 10 additional members appointed by the presi­
dent, “ shall have sole control of the affairs of the association and may make
its own rules for the proper conduct of the association.” The president is the
executive head, “ fully empowered to direct the affairs of the association.”
2. Convention: Held annually; elects general officers. Constitutional amend­
ments by convention.
Qualifications for membership.—“All presidential postmasters shall be eligible
to membership.”
Agreements.—None; salaries and conditions determined by legislation.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The Postmaster’s Gazette.
Headquarters.—Wilkes-Barre, Pa. (variable).
Organization.—Fifteen regional divisions (for selection of vice presidents):
Atlanta (Ga.) division; Austin (Tex.) division; Boston (Mass.) division;
Chattanooga (Tenn.) division; Chicago (111.) division; Cincinnati (Ohio)
division; Denver (Colo.) division; Kansas City (Mo.) division; New York
(N. Y.) division; Philadelphia (Pa.) division; St. Louis (Mo.) division; St.
Paul (Minn.) division; San Francisco (Calif.) division; Spokane (Wash.)
division; Washington (D. C.) division.
General membership organization.
Membership.—1,763.

POSTMASTERS OF THE UNITED STATES, NATIONAL LEAGUE OF
DISTRICT
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1894 as the National League of Postmasters of Fourth Class
Offices. This was expanded in 1912 to include the third-class postmasters, and
the name National League of Postmasters of the United States was adopted.
In 1921 that name was changed to National League of District Postmasters of
the United States.
Objects.—“ The objects of the league shall be to promote fraternal relation­
ship among all postal workers; to improve the efficiency of the postmasters of
the third and fourth classes and their assistants; to cooperate with the Post
Office Department in maintaining the highest possible standards of postal serv­
ice; to create and maintain county service councils in conformity with the
plan indorsed by the Post Office Department and to better the conditions of its
individual members and improve the conditions under which they work.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and insular possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—Third and fourth class post offices.
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, first vice presi­
dent, and three elected executive committeemen, “ shall have charge of and
transact business for the league during the time intervening between league
meetings.”
2. State leagues: “ Each State branch shall adopt a constitution and by-laws
in conformity to the constitution of the national league,” and shall be governed
by an executive committee elected by the membership.
3. Convention: Held annually, elects general officers, enacts legislation; con­
stitutional amendments by convention only.
Qualifications for membership.—Postmasters, ex-postmasters, assistant post­
masters, and acting postmasters of third and fourth class post offices are eligible
to membership.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The Postmasters’ Advocate.




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Headquarters.—No. 1110 F Street, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—State membership, subdivided into county units or congres­
sional district units in some States. There is a State branch in each of the
48 States, and in Hawaii and Porto Rico.
Membership.—14,000.

POSTMASTERS’ ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES, SERVICE8
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized October 1, 1923.
Objects.—“ The purpose of the association shall be to secure for service post­
masters the advantages of the retirement act, and such other legislation and
proposals as may be in the interest of service postmasters, to be determined
from time to time in national conventions.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—Third and fourth class post offices.
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, vice president,
secretary, treasurer, and 10 members appointed by the president.
2. Convention: Held annually; elects general officers, and formulates policy
and program of organization.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Any person appointed or promoted to the
office of postmaster who has previously held a position in the classified civil
service, shall be eligible to membership.”
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—Patchogue, N. Y. (president).
Organization.—General membership organization; no local divisions.
Membership.—415.

MAIL SERVICE, NATIONAL COUNCIL OF SUPERVISORY OFFICIALS
OF THE RAILWAY
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City, January 18, 1922.
Objects.—“ The object of this association is to provide an authoritative body
for the crystallization of ideas on service problems; the interchange of opinions
and experiences among ourselves; to increase our fitness in administrative
acts; the furtherance of the welfare of the members of this association and
the selection of duly accredited representatives to present our views in our
contacts with the department, with the public, and with other postal organiza­
tions; and in the deliberations of the National Welfare Council.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Supervisory grades of the Railway Mail Service.
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, vice president,
secretary-treasurer, and four additional elected members, “ shall * * *
promote the welfare and progress of the council; carry out the orders and
purposes of the council; authorize and supervise the expenditures of the
council.”
2. Local divisions: Government not provided for in national constitution.
3. Convention: “Annual meeting.” Elects general officers. Constitutional
amendments by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Superintendents, assistant superintendents,
chief clerks, assistant chief clerks, and clerks in charge of sections in super­
intendents’ offices of the United States Railway Mail Service are eligible to
membership.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—City post office, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—One chapter for each of the 15 divisions of the Railway Mail
Service: First division, New England States; headquarters, Boston. Second
division, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, the Eastern Shore
of Maryland, Accoinac and Northampton Counties, Va., and Porto R ico; head­
quarters, New York City. Third division, Maryland (except Eastern Shore),
•Postmasters promoted from the classified civil service.




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Virginia (except Accomac and Northampton Counties), West Virginia, North
Carolina, and the District of Columbia; headquarters, Washington. Fourth
division, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Tennessee; head­
quarters, Atlanta. Fifth division, Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky; headquarters,
Cincinnati. Sixth division, Illinois and Iowa; headquarters, Chicago. Seventh
division, Kansas and Missouri; headquarters, St. Louis. Eighth division, Californa, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and Hawaii; headquarters, San Francisco.
Ninth division, the main line of the New York Central Railroad between New
York City and Chicago and the lower peninsula of Michigan; headquarters,
Cleveland. Tenth division, Wisconsin, northern peninsula of Michigan, Minne­
sota, North Dakota, and South Dakota; headquarters, St Paul. Eleventh
division, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico; headquarters, Fort
Worth, Tex. Twelfth division, Louisiana and Mississippi; headquarters,
New Orleans. Thirteenth division, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and
Alaska; headquarters, Seattle. Fourteenth division, Nebraska, Colorado, and
Wyoming; headquarters, Omaha. Fifteenth division, the main lines of the
Pennsylvania Railroad System from New York, via Pittsburgh, to Chicago and
St. Louis, Mo., and collateral lines.
Membership.—330.

MAIL ASSOCIATION, RAILWAY
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized and incorporated December 12, 1898.
Objects.—“ The object of this association is to conduct the business of a fra­
ternal beneficiary association for the sole benefit of its members and bene­
ficiaries and not for profit; to provide closer social relations among railway
postal clerks, to enable them to perfect any movement that may be for their
benefit as a class or for the benefit of the Railway Mail Service, and make
provision for the payment of benefits to its members and their beneficiaries
in case of death, temporary or permanent physical disability as a result of
accidental means.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—The United States Railway Mail Service.
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of the president, vice presi­
dent, industrial secretary, secretary of the association, and the division presi­
dents, shall “ direct the policies of the association as determined by the conven­
tion,” and “ shall have exclusive control of all matters not otherwise provided
for in the interim of national conventions.”
2. Division associations: “ There may be a division association for each divi­
sion of the Railway Mail Service.6 Division associations shall adopt a consti­
tution, by-laws, rules and regulations not inconsistent with the national consti­
tution,” subject to approval by the executive committee.
3. Branch associations: “ There shall be such branch associations in each
division as shall organize in accordance with the rules and regulations of the
national convention.” Constitution and by-laws subject to approval of execu­
tive committee.
4. Convention: Held biennially; “ shall be the supreme executive, legislative,
and judicial body of the order.” Enacts legislation and determines policies.
Constitutional amendments by convention vote.
Initiative and referendum. General officers elected by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—-Any regular male railway postal clerk or
certified male substitute railway postal clerk of the United States Railway Mail
Service, who is of the Caucasian race, is eligible to membership.
Agreements.—None; salaries, hours, and working conditions determined by
legislation.
Benefits.—Fraternal organization within the union provides life and accident
insurance through assessment plan. Membership voluntary.
Official organ.—The Railway Post Office.
Headquarters.—American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—Divided into 15 districts to correspond to the 15 divisions of
the Railway Mail service.
Local unions: Alabama, 1; Arkansas, 2; California, 3; Colorado, 4 ; Connecti­
cut, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Florida, 1; Georgia, 1; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 11;
• For these divisions, see National Council of Supervisory Officials of the Railway Mai)
Service.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN iRADE-tTNIOUS

Iowa, 8 ; Indiana, 5; Kansas, 2; Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 1; Maine, 2 ; Maryland, 2; Massachusetts, 2 ; Michigan, 7; Minnesota, 5; Mississippi, 2; Missouri,
4 ; Montana, 2; Nebraska, 3; New Jersey, 1; New Hampshire, 1; New Mexico,
1; New York, 8; North Carolina, 2; North Dakota, 3; Ohio, 7; Oklahoma, *1;
Oregon, 2; Pennsylvania, 4; Rhode Island, 1; South Carolina, 1; South Dakota,
1; Tennessee, 3; Texas, 9; Utah, 2; Vermont, 1; Virginia, 3; Washington, 2;
West Virginia, 3; Wisconsin, 4; Wyoming, 2. Total, 134.
Membership.—20,000.

POSTAL SUPERVISORS, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized September 8, 1908, in Louisville, Ky.
Objects.—‘‘ The objects of this association shall be to cooperate with the
department to improve the Postal Service and the welfare of its employees;
to raise the standard of efficiency; to establish uniform and equitable com­
pensation, uniform, modern, economical business methods, and widen the field
of opportunity for worthy employees who make the business of the Postal Serv­
ice their life work.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—The supervisory grades of the United States Postal
Service.
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, vice president,
and five members appointed by the president “ shall carry out the orders of the
association and conduct all business during the interim of the conventions.”
2. State and local branches: “ May enact by-laws not in conflict with this
constitution, subject to the approval of the national president.”
3. Convention: Held annually; elects general officers, and enacts legislation.
Constitutional amendments by convention. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“All classified postal employees above the
clerk-carrier grade, and postmasters promoted to that position from the classi­
fied service, shall be eligible for active membership.”
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—The Postal Supervisor.
Headquarters.—Milwaukee, Wis.
Organization.—Local associations organized on basis of city or State unit—
Locals: Alabama, 3 ; California, 6; Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 5; District of
Columbia, 1; Florida, 2; Georgia, 2; Illinois, 5; Indiana, 2; Iowa, 4; Kansas,
3; Kentucky, 2; Louisiana, 1; Maine, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 5; Min­
nesota, 4; Missouri, 2; Nebraska, 2 ; New Jersey, 7; New York, 9; North
Dakota, 1; Ohio, 5; Oklahoma, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 8; Rhode Island,
1; South Dakota, 1; Tennessee, 3; Texas, 5; Utah, 1; Virginia, 3; Washington,
3 ; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 3. Total, 106.
Membership.—5,500.

POST OFFICE CLERKS, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago, 111., on August 27, 1906. At the time of organizing
as a national union it was composed of seven unions chartered by the American
Federation of Labor as directly affiliated locals. This group of postal clerks
was the first of the postal unions to organize on a trade-union basis, and was
the first organization of Government employees to become identified with the
labor movement.
Objects.—“ The objects of the National Federation of Post Office Clerks shall
be to unite the postal employees in one brotherhood for their social and eco­
nomic advancement, and to aid in the perfection of the Postal Service. * * *
It shall be the purpose of the National Federation of Post Office Clerks to
advance the interests of the postal employees and the Postal Service and to aid
all workers in distress. * * ♦
“ We recognize the fact that legislation and not strike is the last resort
in the adjustment of our grievances, and therefore we oppose strikes in the
Postal Service.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and insular possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—The classified clerical service of the United States Post
Office (exclusive of the executive departmental offices).




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Government.—1. Executive committee, consisting of president, secretarytreasurer, and nine vice presidents, “ shall supervise all of the federation’s
business not otherwise provided for.”
2. Local unions: “ Local unions organized under and subordinate to the
iiational federation shall * * * have the right to make their own consti­
tution and by-laws, provided that such constitution and by-laws do not conflict
with those of the parent body.”
3. Convention: Meets biennially; elects officers and enacts legislation; amend­
ments to constitution either by convention or by referendum vote. Initiative,
referendum, and recall.
Qualifications for membership.—“Any person in the classified service who is
designated as a post office clerk, and other postal employees not exercising
supervisorial authority or eligible to membership in any other organization
affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, shall be eligible to member­
ship.” Male and female membership.
Agreements.—None. Salaries, hours, working conditions, etc., determined by
legislation.
Benefits.—Sick and death (contributory insurance organizations within the
union).
Official organ.—The Union Postal Clerk.
Headquarters.—American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—State associations: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California,
Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massa­
chusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire,
New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon,
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Vir­
ginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. (Affiliation of locals with State associations
not mandatory.)
Local unions: Alabama, 26; Arizona, 10; Arkansas, 10; California, 79; Colo­
rado, 19; Connecticut, 18; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia, 2; Florida, 11;
Georgia, 15; Hawaii, 1; Idaho, 17; Illinois, 39; Indiana, 30; Iowa, 31; Kansas,
22; Kentucky, 8; Louisiana, 6; Maine, 4; Maryland, 2; Massachusetts, 23;
Michigan, 39; Minnesota, 30; Mississippi, 5; Missouri, 26; Montana, 16; Ne­
braska, 19; Nevada, 1; New Hampshire, 10; New Jersey, 25; New Mexico, 9;
New York, 44; North Carolina, 14; North Dakota, 11: Ohio, 29; Oklahoma, 12;
Oregon, 21; Panama, 1; Pennsylvania, 36; Porto Rico, 1; Rhode Island, 5;
South Carolina, 9; South Dakota, 17; Tennessee. 23; Texas, 28; Utah, 5;
Vermont, 4; Virginia, 18; Washington, 17; West Virginia, 2; Wisconsin, 26;
Wyoming, 4. Total, 881.
Membership.—35,000 to 40,000.

POST OFFICE CLERKS OF THE UNITED STATES, THE UNITED
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1899, in Nevz York City; incorporated under the laws of Mary­
land on January 25, 1900; reincorporated in the District of Columbia in 1909.
Objects.—“ To improve the efficiency of the Postal Service, to unite fraternally
all post office clerks in the United States who are eligible to membership,
for the protection of themselves and their dependents in the event of death
or disability; to secure through cooperation with the Post Office department
the classification of post office clerks, with a view to securing more equitable
salary rates, regulation of hours of labor, the upholding at all times of civil
service rules and regulations, and for the establishment of branch associa­
tions and a mutual benefit auxiliary, and such other objects as may from time
to time arise.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—The classified clerical service of the United States Post
Office (exclusive of the executive departmental office).
Government.—1. Executive committee, composed of president, first vice presi­
dent, secretary, treasurer, and the chairman of the advisory board and the
finance committee (elected), “ shall have complete control of the affairs of
the national association not otherwise provided for.”
Advisory board (elected) is policy-forming body.
Civil service committee, composed of president, secretary, and chairman
of the advisory board, acts on “ all matters pertaining ” to civil service,




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2. State branches: Composed of five or more locals in any State, and char­
tered by the national association. “ State branches shall be governed by such
rules and regulations as they may prescribe,” provided they do not conflict
with national constitution and by-laws.
3. Local branches: Autonomy not defined in constitution.
4. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Laws enacted by convention may be submitted to referendum. Constitu­
tional amendments by convention, or by convention and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any employee in the classified civil service
who is designated by the Post Office Department as a post office clerk is eligible
to membership. Male and female membership.
Agreements.—None; working conditions and salary determined by legislation.
Benefits.—Insurance (contributory mutual benefit association within union).
Official organ.—The Post Office Clerk.
Headquarters.—Colorado Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—State branches: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Con­
necticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine,
Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New
Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsyl­
vania, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wis­
consin.
Local branches: Alabama, 31; Alaska, 2; Arizona, 9; Arkansas, 35; Cali­
fornia, 78; Colorado, 31; Connecticut, 40; Delaware, 8; District of Columbia,
1; Florida, 28; Georgia, 35; Hawaii, 2; Idaho, 12; Illinois, 120; Indiana, 61;
Iowa, 51; Kansas, 54; Kentucky, 31; Louisiana, 15; Maine, 27; Maryland, 16;
Massachusetts, 73; Michigan, 69; Minnesota, 49; Mississippi, 18; Missouri, 43;
Montana, 10; Nebraska, 21; Nevada, 4; New Hampshire, 19; New Jersey, 65;
New Mexico, 10; New York, 235; North Carolina, 21 ;* North Dakota, 9; Ohio,
110; Oklahoma, 61; Oregon, 18; Pennsylvania, 203; Porto Rico, 8; Rhode Island,
6; South Carolina, 24; South Dakota, 9; Tennessee, 21; Texas, 130; Utah, 4:
Vermont, 19; Virginia, 31; Washington, 30; West Virginia, 34; Wisconsin, 78;
Wyoming, 10. Total, 2,129.
Membership.—35,000 to 40,000.
LETTER CARRIERS, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized 1889; incorporated February 26, 1892.
Objects.—“ The objects of this association shall be: First, to unite fraternally
all letter carriers in the United States for their mutual benefit; second, to
obtain and secure our rights as Government employees, and to strive at all
times to promote the welfare of every member; third, to create and establish
the United States Letter Carriers’ Mutual Benefit Association; fourth, in con­
junction with the Post Office Department to strive for the constant improvement
of the Postal Service; fifth, to create and establish the United States Letter
Carriers’ National Sick Benefit Association.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions.
Trade jurisdiction.—The letter-carrier service of the United States Post Office.
Government.—1. General officers: President, vice president, secretary, assist­
ant secretary, treasurer, executive board of five members, one State vice presi­
dent from each State. “ The executive board in conjunction with the president
shall have general supervision and control over the association during recess.”
2. State associations: “ The State association shall be composed of the sub­
ordinate branches in any one State.”
3. District associations: “ The district association shall be composed of the
subordinate branches in a given district.”
4. Subordinate branches: “ The subordinate branches shall be composed of
the members of the National Association of Letter Carriers working under the
supervision of one postmaster.”
Constitution and by-laws for State associations, district associations, and
subordinate branches, respectively, are uniform and dictated by the national
association. Autonomy limited chiefly to size of standing committees, initiation
fees, and dues (within specified limits).
5. Convention: Meets biennially; elects general officers and legislates for
organization, subject to referendum.




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177

Qualifications for membership.—Letter carriers and substitute letter carriers
in the United States Postal Service are eligible to membership.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—Life, accident, and health insurance through mutual benefit societies
within the organization.
Official organ.—The Postal Record.
Headquarters.—American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C.
Organization.—State associations: Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecti­
cut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mas­
sachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hamp­
shire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Penn­
sylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washing­
ton, West Virginia, Wisconsin.
Subordinate branches: Alabama, 21; Arizona, 7; Arkansas, 27; California,
90; Colorado, 28; Connecticut, 35; Delaware, 5; District of Columbia, 1;
Florida, 22; Georgia, 24; Hawaii, 1; Idaho, 16; Illinois, 134; Indiana, 87; Iowa,
77; Kansas, 50; Kentucky, 32; Louisiana, 11; Maine, 29; Maryland, 10; Massa­
chusetts, 85; Michigan, 75; Minnesota, 46; Mississippi, 23; Missouri, 48; Mon­
tana, 17; Nebraska, 31; Nevada, 2; New Hampshire, 24; New Jersey, 89; New
Mexico, 6; New York, 160; North Carolina, 33; North Dakota, 9; Ohio, 126;
Oklahoma, 34; Oregon, 25; Pennsylvania, 197; Porto Rico, 6; Rhode Island, 7;
South Carolina, 22; South Dakota, 16; Tennessee, 36; Texas, 53; Utah, 10;
Vermont, 15; Virginia, 24; Washington, 32; West Virginia, 20; Wisconsin, 70;
Wyoming, 5. Total, 2,053.
Membership.—50,000.

RURAL LETTER CARRIERS’ ASSOCIATION, NATIONAL
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Chicago in 1903.
Objects.—“ The purpose of this association shall be fraternal and for the
study and adoption of the best method of performing the duties ctf the rural
letter service; to seek improvement in the condition of all its members, and
to cooperate at all times with the department for the advancement of the
service. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Rural mail service of the United States Post Office.
Government.—1. Executive committee of three members in conjunction with
the president has “ general supervision and control of the association. ”
2. State association, largely autonomous.
3. Convention: Held annually; elects general officers. Constitutional amend­
ments by convention only.
Qualifications for membership.—All regular, substitute, or retired rural letter
carriers are eligible to membership, but each State association determines
qualifications for membership in its own State. (Only white members are
eligible to serve as delegates to conventions or to hold office.)
Agreements.—None. Wages and working conditions determined by legisla­
tion.
Benefits.—Group insurance.
Official organ.—“ R. F. D. News.”
Headquarters.—Lansing, Mich, (variable).
Organization.—Unit of organization is, variously, the county, a group of
counties comprising a district, a congressional district, or one general State
association: Arizona—State, 1; Arkansas not reported; California—county, 38;
Colorado—district, 14; Connecticut—county, 8; Delaware—State, 1; Florida—
State, 1; Georgia—district, 12; Idaho—district, 4; Illinois—county and county
group, 77; Indiana—county, 54; Iowa—county, 93; Kansas—county, 78; Ken­
tucky—county, 67; Louisiana—congressional district, 8; Maine—county, 12;
Maryland—county, 6; Massachusetts—not reported; Michigan—county, 51;
Minnesota—county, 66; Mississippi—district, 8; Missouri—county, 84; Mon­
tana—State, 1; Nebraska—county, 22; New Hampshire, county, 10; New Jer­
sey—county, 10; New Mexico—district, 3; New York—county, 51; North Caro­
lina—county, 43; North Dakota—county, 33; Ohio—county, 88; Oklahoma—
county and county groups, 44: Oregon—State, 1; Pennsylvania—county, 45;
Rhode Island—State, 1; South Carolina—county, 39; South Dakota—county 41;




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HANDBOOK OP AMEBICAN TRADE-TJNIONS

Tennessee—county, 90; Texas—county, 87; Vermont—county, 11; Virginia—
county, 45; Washington—county, 11; West Virginia—county, 11; Wisconsin—
county, 59.
Membership.—28,600.

RURAL LETTER CARRIERS, NATIONAL FEDERATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1920 after a secession movement from the National Rural Letter
Carriers’ Association.
Objects.—The objects of the National Federation of Rural Mail Carriers shall
be: First, to unite all rural letter carriers in the United States for their fra­
ternal, social, and economic advancement; second, in conjunction with the Post
Office Department to strive for the constant improvement of the Postal Service.
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Rural mail service of the United States post office.
Government.—1. Executive board composed of president, vice president, secretary-treasurer, and an executive committee of five elected members has
executive control of the organization.
2. State branches: Autonomy not defined in constitution.
3. Convention: Held annually; elects general officers and enacts legislation.
Constitutional amendments by convention or by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Anyone employed as a regular or substitute
rural letter carrier is eligible to membership. (Only white members are eli­
gible as delegates to conventions and to hold office.)
Agreements.—None. Wages and working conditions controlled by legislation.
Benefits.—Death (by assessment).
Official organ.—The Message.
Headquarters.—La Fayette, Ind. (variable).
Organization.—State branches only: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colo­
rado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Mis­
souri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ore­
gon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and
Wisconsin.
Membership.—Not reported; American Federation of Labor voting strength, 300.

POSTAL EMPLOYEES, NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized at Chattanooga, Tenn.. in 1913, by colored employees of the Rail­
way Mail Service who, because of their race, were not eligible to membership
in the Railway Mail Association. As first organized membership was confined
to workers in the railway mail, but in 1923 the scope was extended to include
all colored workers in the United States Postal Service.
Objects.—The object of this alliance is “to provide close relationship among
postal employees to enable them to perfect any movement that will be for
their benefit as a class and for the benefit of the Postal Service; also, to conduct
business for a fraternal beneficiary organization for the sole benefit of its mem­
bers and not for profit; and to provide relief for its members and their bene­
ficiaries and make provision for the payment of benefits to them in case of
death, temporary and permanent disability as a result of accident.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—United States Post Office Department.
Government.—1. The executive committee is composed of the nine district
presidents and the general officers of the organization; namely, president, vice
president, secretary-treasurer, editor, and auditor. The president is the exec­
utive head.
2. District alliances formed in geographical districts outlined by the con­
stitution. Constitution, rules, and by-laws subject to approval of the executive
committee.
3. Branch alliances formed in cities where there are a sufficient number of
workers to maintain a local organization. Constitution and by-laws subject
to approval of the executive committee.
4. Convention: Biennial; elects general officers. Constitutional amendments
by convention only.




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179

Qualifications for membership.—“Any regular employee or certified substitute
in the Post Office Department under civil service rules” is eligible to member­
ship.
Agreements.—None. Wages, hours, and working conditions determined by
legislation.
Benefits.—Death: disability and accident insurance (contributory).
Official organ.—The Postal Alliance.
Headquarters.—No. 2007 Thirteenth Street NW., Washington, D. C. (variable).
Organization.—States comprising the nine districts, with the number of
branches, or local unions in each State, are as follows: District 1—Arizona,
none; Oklahoma, none; Texas, 7; Arkansas, 2; and New Mexico, none; dis­
trict 2—Virginia, 6; Delaware, none; Maryland, 2; and District of Columbia,
1; district 3—Florida, 1; Georgia, 6; North Carolina, 1; and South Carolina,
3; district 4—Louisiana, 2; Mississippi, 4; Alabama, 2; district 5—Kentucky,
1; West Virginia, none; Tennessee, 3; and Pennsylvania west of Susquehanna
River, 1; district 6—Illinois, 1; Indiana, 1; Wisconsin, none; Ohio, 1; and
Michigan, 1; district 7—Iowa, none; Minnesota, none; and Missouri (exclu­
sive of Kansas City), 2; district 8—Pennsylvania east of Susquehanna River,
1; New York, 1; and New England, none; district 9—Kansas, 1; Kansas
City, Mo., 1; Nebraska, 1; North Dakota, none; South Dakota, none; Montana,
none; Wyoming, none; Colorado, none; Utah, none; Idaho, none; Utah, none;
Oregon, none; Texas, none; and California, none. Total, 53 locals.
Membership.—1,700.

POST OFFICE LABORERS OF THE UNITED STATES, NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized August 7, 1912, incorporated in New Jersey February 26, 1913.
Objects.—“To unite fraternally all post-office watchmen, messengers and
laborers in the United States who are eligible to membership; to secure
through cooperation of the Post Office Department the classification of postoffice watchmen, messengers and laborers with a view to securing more ac­
ceptable salary rates, regulation of hours of labor, the upholding at all times
of civil service rules and regulations, and for such other objects as may from
time to time arise. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The watchman, messenger, and laborer classification in
the United States Post Office Department.
Government.—1. General officers: President, two vice presidents, recording
secretary, financial secretary, and treasurer. The president is the adminis­
trative head.
2. Branch associations: “ Branches which reserve the right of self-govern­
ment and to make their own constitution and by-laws so long as they do
not conflict with the constitution and by-laws of the national association. ”
3. Convention: Held annually; elects general officers. Constitutional amend­
ments by vote only.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person who is in the employ of the
Post Office Department as a watchman, messenger, or laborer, is eligible to
membership.
Agreements.—None. Wages and working conditions determined by legisla­
tion.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 5439 Aberdeen Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local branches and membership at large: Arkansas, 1; Calfornia, 1; Colorado, 1; District of Columbia, 1; Georgia, 1; Illinois, 2; Iowa, 1;
Kentucky, 1; Maine, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 1; Minne­
sota, 1; Missouri, 2; New Jersey, 1; New York, 3; Ohio, 3; Oklahoma, 1;
Pennsylvania, 1; Texas, 2; Utah, 1. Total, 28.
Membership.—1,023.







AMUSEMENTS
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Page
Actors and Artistes of America, Associated-------------------------------------------------181
Bill Posters and Billers of America, International Alliance of (see Miscel­
laneous Trades).
Musicians, American Federation of_____________ _________________________
182
States and Canada, International Alliance of Theatrical________________
183
Stage Employees and Moving Picture Machine Operators of the United
Theater Attendants (American Federation of Labor locals)________________
4

ACTORS AND ARTISTES OF AMERICA, ASSOCIATED *
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City on July 18, 1919. The first group of public
entertainers to form a union were vaudeville performers and the union was
chartered by the American Federation of Labor as a directly affiliated local
known as Actors’ Protective Union No. 6453. The organization grew into a
national union chartered in 1896 as the Actors’ National Protective Union, a
name which in 1909 was changed to the Actors’ International Union. In 1900
the American Federation of Labor chartered a second organization of vaude­
ville actors known as the White Rats Union. In 1910 these two organizations
amalgamated under the name of the larger and more powerful, and received
a charter as the White Rats Actors’ Union of America.
In the legitimate field the first efforts toward economic organization were
by the Actors’ Society of America, but this organization was short-lived, and
by 1916 had ceased to function.
On December 22, 1912, a gathering of 80 actors met in New York City and
took steps toward forming a union. Five months later the Actors’ Equity
Association was launched, with 112 members.
With a view to strengthening its position in the effort to secure advantageous
contracts from producers, the association, in 1916, applied to the American
Federation of Labor for a charter of affiliation. Because the White Rats Ac­
tors’ Union of America held the jurisdiction covering the theatrical field the
application was refused, but the suggestion was made that the legitimate actors
form a branch of the union already chartered. No agreement to that end was
reached and the Actors’ Equity remained outside the American Federation of
Labor until 1919.
Meanwhile the White Rats’ Actors Union had been practically annihilated
as the result of disastrous defeat in their strike of 1917. When the Actors'
Equity Association made a second application to the American Federation of
Labor for affiliation, in 1919, the White Rats surrendered their charter and the
federation chartered both groups under the title “Associated Actors and Artistes
of America.”
This organization is a federation of autonomous groups divided by crafts
and nationalities. The component organizations are: In the legitimate field—
Actors’ Equity Association (which comprises more than 70 per cent of the
total membership), Hebrew Actors’ Union, and Hungarian Actors and Artistes'
Association; in the vaudeville field—American Artistes' Federation (formerly
White Rats Actors’ Union), and the German White Rats Actors’ Union;
chorus—Chorus Equity Association, Grand Opera Choral Alliance, and Hebrew
Chorus Union.
Objects.—“ The policy of this union shall be the ‘union shop'; an equitable
contract and to prevent and abolish all abuses from which its members suffer
or may suffer.”
7 There are two other organizations in the theatrical field, the Actors’ Fidelity League
and the National Vaudeville Artists. The Actors* Fidelity League was organized as a
rotest against the affiliation of Actor’s Equity with the American Federation of Labor,
t was promoted and encouraged by theatrical producers and managers. The present
membership is 180.
The National Vaudeville Artists was organized by the Keith interests after the defeat of
the old vaudeville union, the White Rats. It is still fostered by the Keith management
and is essentially a “ company union.” It has a membership of about 10,000.

F




181

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HANDBOOK OP AMEBICAN TBADE-TTNIONS

Territorial jurisdiction.—United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, and
Cuba.
Trade jurisdiction.—“All actors and actresses, whether legitimate, lyceum,
circus, cabaret, vaudeville, Chautauqua, burlesque, motion picture, stage man­
ager, director, assistant stage manager or director, or any other entertainers
of the public.”
Government.—Governed by an executive committee composed of president,
vice president, secretary-treasurer and five other elected members.
General meeting held annually in New York City.
Qualifications for membership.—Actors* Equity Association: “ Persons who
have been actors for at least two years are eligible to election as regular
members. Persons who have been actors for less than two years and who
have played at least one speaking part are eligible to election as junior mem­
bers. *’
Hebrew Actors’ Union: Applicants must qualify by acting a part acceptably
before the membership.
Other groups: All persons actually engaged within the jurisdiction covered
are eligible to membership.
Agreements.—Actors’ Equity Association negotiates as an organization with
producers, both associated and independent. “ Basic agreement ” covers stand­
ard minimum working conditions. Signed individually and supplemented by
a personal contract covering pay.
Chorus Equity Association negotiates an agreement with producers, both
associated and independent, covering working conditions and a minimum wage
scale.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None. (Actors’ Equity Association publishes “ Equity” as
its official organ.)
Headquarters.—No. 115 West Forty-seventh Street, New York City.
Organization.—General membership organization, no locals.
Branches: Actors’ Equity Association, Chorus Equity Association, American
Artistes’ Federation, Grand Opera Choral Alliance, which are craft divisions;
German White Rats Actors* Union. Hebrew Chorus Union, Hebrew Actors’
Union, Hungarian Actors and Artistes* Association, which are language and
craft divisions.
Membership.—14,000.

MUSICIANS, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Indianapolis, Ind., October 19, 1896. The present organiza­
tion of musicians was founded at a convention held in Indianapolis on Octo­
ber 19, 1896, at which 27 local organizations were represented. A musicians*
organization, the National League of Musicians of America, existed at the
time, but it was a professional society wholly. Many branches of the league
sent representatives to take part in the organization of the trade-union, and
were expelled from the league in consequence. In the resulting struggle be­
tween the two organizations for the control of professional musicians, the
old league was gradually absorbed by the new federation.
Objects.—“ The object of the American Federation of Musicians shall be
to unite all local unions of musicians, the individual musicians who form
such local unions, and conditional members of the American Federation of
Musicians into one grand organization for the purpose of the general protec­
tion and advancement of their interests, and for the purpose of enforcing good
faith and fair dealing, as well as consistency with union principles, in all
cases involving or of interest to members and local unions of the federation. ”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions, and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Professional players of musical instruments.
Government.—1. Executive council, composed of president, vice president,
secretary, treasurer, and five elected members, one of whom shall be a Ca­
nadian, “ shall have general supervision of all matters pertaining to the fed­
eration.”
2. Local unions: Subordinate; autonomy limited.
3. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
No referendum.




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183

Qualifications for membership.—“ Performers on musical instruments of any
kind who render musical services for pay are classed as professional musi­
cians and are eligible to membership. ” Male and female membership.
Agreements.—All agreements and contracts, whether for individuals or for
organizations, must be made on official blanks of the American Federation of
Musicians. Detailed price scales, hours, working conditions, etc., are fixed
by the general laws of the organization.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—The International Musician.
Headquarters.—No. 239 Halsey Street, Newark, N. J.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 5; Arizona, 3;
Arkansas, 6; California, 37; Colorado, 11; Connecticut, 22; Delaware, 2;
District of Columbia, 2; Florida, 12; Georgia, 5; Idaho, 4; Illinois, 85; Indiana,
28; Iowa, 22; Kansas, 17; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 3; Maine, 7; Maryland,
5; Massachusetts, 30; Michigan, 19; Minnesota, 13; Mississippi, 5; Missouri,
13; Montana, 15; Nebraska, 6; Nevada, 3; New Hampshire, 4; New Jersey, 20;
New Mexico, 2; New York, 61; North Carolina, 3; North Dakota, 4; Ohio, 57;
Oklahoma, 16; Oregon, 6; Pennsylvania, 71; Rhode Island, 4; South Carolina,
3; South Dakota, 4; Tennessee, 4; Texas, 17; Utah, 4; Vermont, 2; Virginia,
5; Washington, 18; West Virginia, 15; Wisconsin, 27; Wyoming, 9; Hawaii, 1.
Canada—Alberta, 3; British Columbia, 3; Manitoba, 2; New Brunswick, 1;
Nova Scotia, 1; Ontario, 28; Quebec, 2; Saskatchewan, 5. Total, 786, of which
46 are negro organizations.
Membership.—125,000.

STAGE EMPLOYEES AND MOVING PICTURE MACHINE OPERATORS
OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA, INTERNATIONAL ALLI­
ANCE OF THEATRICAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized July 17, 1893. The first organization among stage employees be­
gan in New York City in the early seventies, with the formation of fraternal
and relief societies. Later, with the rise of the Knights of Labor, the stage
hands in several of the large cities became identified with that movement.
The locals of stage hands, however, followed the swing of the craft unionists
from the Knights of Labor to the American Federation of Labor, and affiliated
with the latter organization as local trade-unions.
In 1893 the 11 local unions then existing met in conference in New York
City and formed the National Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. Five
years later, with the chartering of a local in Montreal, Canada, the alliance
became international in character and changed its name to International Alli­
ance of Theatrical Stage Employees.
Changes in the theatrical business have determined the changes in scope of
the organization. The alliance was founded at a time when the field was
largely limited to legitimate dramatic productions in the very large cities.
Stock-company production in smaller centers followed, then vaudeville and
road shows. Still later, with the extension of jurisdiction to motion-picturemachine operators, the field became practically universal.
Jurisdiction over the motion-picture-machine operators was claimed by both
the stage employees and the electrical workers, and both these organizations
took projectionists into membership. The theatrical stage employees’ organ­
ization was the more active and more successful in the new field, but for years
the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers contested their right to
the motion-picture men. A decision of the 1914 convention of the American
Federation of Labor granted the jurisdiction unequivocally to the International
Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.
Following this decision the title of the alliance was expanded to Inter­
national Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and Moving Picture Machine
Operators of the United States and Canada. The new title is not, however,
used by the American Federation of Labor, in which organization it is still
chartered as the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees of
America.
Objects.—“ To improve our condition, to insure the maintenance of a fair
rate of wages for services competently rendered, to assure the employment of
our members in these industries and that equity may be maintained."
103312°— 26------ 13




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN XRADE-TJNIONS

Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The mechanical department of the theatrical stage
(covering stage carpenters, property men, stage electricians, and all other stage
employees) and the projection of moving pictures.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, seven vice
presidents (one of whom shall be a resident and citizen of Canada), and gen­
eral secretary-treasurer, “shall have entire supervision and authority over the
alliance except during such time as the alliance is in convention assembled.’*
2.
Local unions: “ Home rule is granted to all affiliated locals of this alli­
ance, and this shall be construed as authority conferred upon each local to
exercise full control over its own affairs: Provided, however, That in the con­
duct of such business no action shall be taken that will conflict with any por­
tion of the constitution and by-laws of the alliance.**
' 3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention only. No referendum except as to
calling special or district conventions.
Qualifications for membership.—Six months* residence in the jurisdiction,
passing a satisfactory examination; application must be passed upon by general
secretary-treasurer. An applicant for membership “ must have been a member
in good standing of the union of whatever other craft he has followed previous
tc the date of his application, provided there has been a local of his craft in
his city.”
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—“All affiliated locals shall enter into written contracts with
local managers and other employers covering conditions of employment of
their members.** (Constitutional mandate.)
Agreements are negotiated by local unions, generally with individual thea­
ters. Terms vary widely with varying conditions in different localities.
Traveling members have individual contracts which are uniform through­
out the membership.
Benefits.—Strike; and prosecution of claims against employers for mem­
bers by claim department of the alliance.
Official organ.—General Bulletin (not a journal).
Headquarters.—World Tower Building, 110 West Fortieth Street, New York
City.
Organization.—District divisions.
No. 1. Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.
No. 2. California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado.
No. 3. Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Con­
necticut.
No. 4. New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia,
West Virginia, and District of Columbia.
No. 5. Wyoming, South Dakota, and Nebraska.
No. 6. Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Kansas, and Louisiana west of the
Mississippi.
No. 7. Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, North and South Carolina,
Mississippi, and Louisiana east of the Mississippi.
No. 8. Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky.
No. 9. Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri.
No. 10. Minnesota and North Dakota.
No. 11. Ontario, Quebec, Prince Edward’s Island, Nova Scotia, and New
Brunswick.
No. 12. Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.
Local unions of stage hands and moving-picture-machine operators organized
into separate locals except in small towns: United States—Alabama, 10; Ari­
zona, 4; Arkansas, 4; California, 35; Colorado, 8; Connecticut, 16; Delaware,
2 ; District of Columbia, 2; Florida, 10; Georgia, 6; Idaho, 4; Illinois, 30;
Indiana, 25; Iowa, 20; Kansas, 14; Kentucky, 4; Louisiana, 7; Maine, 4 ; Mary­
land, 5; Massachusetts, 32; Michigan, 17; Minnesota, 10; Mississippi, 5;
Missouri, 14; Montana, 7; Nebraska, 3; Nevada, 1; New Hampshire, 1;
New Jersey, 21; New Mexico, 1; New York, 48; North Carolina, 7; North
Dakota, 2; Ohio, 45; Oklahoma, 14; Oregon, 4; Pennsylvania, 49; Rhode
Island, 4; South Carolina, 4 ; South Dakota, 4; Tennessee, 9; Texas, 31; Utah,
3; Virginia, 10; Washington, 15; West Virginia, 8; Wisconsin, 18; Wyoming, 1.
Canada—Alberta, 4; British Columbia, 3; Manitoba, 2 ; New Brunswick, 1;
Ontario, 18 ; Quebec, 4; Saskatchewan, 4. Total, 634.
Membership.—22,000.




MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURES
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Broom and Whisk Makers’ Union, International__________________________
Diamond Workers’ Protective Union of America____________________________
Jewelry Workers’ Union, International___________________________________
Powder and High Explosive Workers of America, United__________________
Wire Weavers’ Protective Association, American_________________________

Itofie
185
186
187
188
189

Indeia^^mithtfS|Siiwii of8 North America----------------------------------------------------------

189

BROOM AND WHISK MAKERS’ UNION, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized, 1893, as the International Broom Makers’ Union.
Objects.—“ The objects of the international union shall be the promotion of
the material and intellectual welfare of all the workers in the broom trade:
(1) by organization; (2) by education and enlightenment; (3) by reduction
of the hours of labor; (4) by gradually abolishing such evils as exist in the
trade; (5) by aiding the members to secure employment; (6) by agitation
to abolish the competition of convict labor; (7) by agitation to regulate the
competition of State, county, and city charitable institutions; (8) by making
propaganda for the union label; (9) to establish a uniform scale of wages
in various competitive districts.” (Constitution.)
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ The international union shall have jurisdiction over all
broom or whisk tiers and sewers (hand or power), broom-corn sorters, sizers,
bunchers, scrapers, operators on patent broom machines, nailers on metal case
brooms, feather duster makers, all workers engaged in the preparation of ma­
terial for brooms or whisks, all workers on articles made for sweeping, whether
made of broom corn or other material.”
Government.—1. General executive board, consisting of general president,
general vice president, general secretary-treasurer, and eight district repre­
sentatives. The general secretary is the active administrative officer, and is
the only one employed full time on salary.
The general executive board represents “ the international organization in
every respect;” makes and adopts “ such provisions and rules as may become
necessary for the best interests of the organization,” and has full power over
strikes. Decisions of the general executive board may be appealed to the
convention or to referendum.
General officers are selected for a two-year term, alternately by referendum
and by the convention.
2. Local unions: “ Local unions shall have power to adopt their own scale
of wages,” and “ shall have jurisdiction over apprentices, who shall be sub­
ject to the trade rules of the local.”
3. Convention: Meets every four years; legislates for organization and
elects general officers.
Legislation and amendments to constitution and by-laws by convention and
initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ No workers shall be barred from member­
ship in any local union on account of creed, color, or nationality, except
Asiatic labor. * * * A candidate for* membership as a journeyman tier,
sewer, hand or power, or sorter, must have served two years at the branch
of the trade for which he claims membership. A candidate for membership
as an auxiliary member must have been employed in a broom factory for
six months.”
Broom makers and other workers at the trade who are blind and employed
in State, county, city, or privately controlled institutions or workshops for
the blind, will be admitted to membership as local unions.
Membership at large may be held by individuals working in localities where
no locals exist




185

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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Apprenticeship regulations.—“ Local unions shall have jurisdiction over ap­
prentices, who shall be subject to the trade rules of the local. In no case
shall there be more than the following apprentices employed: Less than 12
journeymen tiers or sewers, 1 apprentice; 12 or more journeymen tiers or sewers,
but less than 22, 2 apprentices; 22 or more journeymen tiers or sewers, 3 ap­
prentices. In no case shall there be more than 3 apprentices in any 1 factory,
or more than 1 apprentice to be an apprentice sewer. No apprentice shall be
put on during a dull season or when journeymen broom makers are being
laid off.
“ The wages to be paid the apprentices shall be the same as received by
journeymen. ”
Apprenticeship term is two years.
Agreements (union label shops).—Negotiated by local unions, subject to
approval of the general executive board. Union label under the direction and
control of the general executive board, and its use is limited and defined by
the constitution and general trade laws.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death.
Official organ.—The Broom Maker.
Headquarters.—No. 853 King Place, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 1; Arkansas,
1; California, 2; Illinois, 3; Indiana, 1; Iowa, 1; Kansas, 2; Louisiana, 1;
Michigan, 1; Minnesota, 2; Missouri, 3; New Jersey, 1; Ohio, 1; Oklahoma, 1:
Pennsylvania, 2; Texas, 1; Washington, 2; Wisconsin, 1. Canada—Ontario, 2.
Total, 20.
Membership.—Not reported. American Federation of Labor voting strength,
700.

DIAMOND WORKERS* PROTECTIVE UNION OF AMERICA
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized September 16, 1902, in New York City. The first organization
was known as the Diamond Polishers’ Protective Union of America. Jurisdic­
tion was later extended to cutters and setters, and in 1903 the name was
changed to the Diamond Workers’ Protective Union of America.
Objects.—“ The aim of this organization, is to promote the moral and finan­
cial welfare of all workers in the diamond-cutting industry.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Diamond polishing, cutting, and setting.
Government.—The executive board, composed of president, secretary and
treasurer, and delegates elected by and from the different shops and branches,
“ shall transact all business of this organization.”
Executive committee, composed of president, secretary, and treasurer, “ shall
represent the union in all instances” and “ shall execute decisions of the
executive board and general meetings.”
“ The delegates are recognized officers of this union. * * * They shall
control all matters in their respective shops, receive complaints, and try to
settle all controversies between the members and the employer except when
wage questions are involved.”
2. General meetings: “ Regular general meetings shall be held once every
three months. * * * General strikes can only be declared and assessments
can only be levied at a general meeting.”
3. Shop and branch meetings: Called by order of the president. “ Members
must attend all shop and branch meetings when called.” General president
presides at branch and shop meetings.
General officers elected by popular vote.
Qualifications for membership.—All bona fide diamond workers are eligible
to membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ The executive board shall have the right to
give consent for the admission of apprentices to the trade subject to the
following rules:
“ Every member can make application to the executive board in writing to
have his son admitted to apprenticeship, provided such son shall be 16 years
old and not yet attained the age of 17 at the time application is made.
“At no time shall the number of apprentices admitted exceed 10 per cent
of the total number of members of this union.
“ No apprentice shall be admitted before he has been subjected to a physical
examination and have had his eyesight tested by the physician and optician




MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURES

187

assigned by the nnion. The reports received from these authorities must be
satisfactory to the board.
“As soon as apprentices shall receive a wage of $18 they shall not longer
be included in the number of apprentices in regard to the percentage admitted
to the trade.
“Apprentices admitted by request of employers shall be included in the 10
per cent allowed and shall be subject to the same supervision, rules, and
regulations laid down by this union for other apprentices.”
Agreements.—Made between officers of the union and of the Diamond Cut­
ters Manufacturers’ Association. Existing agreements provide for union shop,
recognition of right of shop delegate to regulate shop affairs, 44-hour week
and no overtime, wage rates on sliding scale depending on ability.
Plours: *“ Members are not permitted to commence work before 7.45 a. m.
and shall not enter their workrooms before 7.40 a. m. They shall not be per­
mitted to work after 5 p. m. for the first five days of the week nor after 12
o’clock noon on Saturday. For the first five days of the week all work shall
cease at 12 o’clock noon and shall not be resumed before 12.30 p. m.
“ The week commencing on the last Monday of the month of July of every
year shall be set aside as a general vacation week. During that week no mem­
ber of this union shall be permitted to work.” (Constitution.)
Benefits.—Strike and lockout; death (by assessment); out-of-work insurance
(contributory); optical care once every two years.
Official organ.—The Diamond Worker.
Headquarters.—No. 132 Joralemon Street, Brooklyn, N. Y.
Organization.—General membership; no locals.
Membership.—375.

JEWELRY WORKERS’ UNION, INTERNATIONAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in New York City in September, 1916. An International Jewelry
Workers’ Union, composed of a numoer of directly affiliated unions, was char­
tered by the American Federation of Labor in 1900. This organization main­
tained a precarious existence with a steadily decreasing membership until
1912, when it surrendered its charter and disbanded. Such local organiza­
tions as remained intact returned to the American Federation of Labor as
directly affiliated locals. In 1916 representatives of these unions met in New
York and established a new International Jewelry Workers’ Union affiliated
to the American Federation of Labor.
This second organization was formed on industrial lines rather than with
the craft limitations of its predecessors, and it immediately became involved
in jurisdictional disputes. The first of these was a conflict with the Diamond
Workers’ Protective Union over the diamond setters who held membership
in the Jewelry Workers’ Union. This was adjusted by the transfer in 1918
of the diamond setters in jewelry shops to the Diamond Workers’ Protective
Union. Later the International Association of Machinists protested against
the inclusion of jewelry tool and die makers in the jurisdiction of the jew­
elry workers’ union and the metal polishers and buffers’ union claimed ju­
risdiction over all metal work in the jewelry trade. The dispute with the
machinists was settled out of court, but the American Federation of Labor
sustained the metal polishers and ordered the jewelry workers’ union to
release its metal workers to the craft union. This the International Jewelry
Workers’ Union refused to do, and it was suspended from the American Fed­
eration of Labor in 1920. After the suspension, the American Federation of
Labor again chartered a local of the jewelry workers in direct affiliation to
the federation. To check this move and to preserve the entity of the inter­
national, concessions were made to the metal polishers and the International
Jewelry Workers’ Union was reinstated in the American Federation of Labor.
Objects.—“ The object of this international shall be the encouragement and
formation of local unions throughout the American continent composed of
male and female workers, or members at large; to establish a uniform wage
for the same class of work regardless of sex; to abolish the sweatshop sys­
tem. child labor, competitive piecework and home work; to protect the in­
terests of the workers by bringing about a perfect system of apprenticeship;
to reduce the hours of labor to six per day; to substitute arbitration for
strikes wherever possible to do s o ; to promote the use of the union label ad the




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

sole guaranty of union-made goods; to support the union label of all other
bona fide labor organizations and to assist all labor unions to the full extent
of our power.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—“ This organization shall have jurisdiction over the
following branches of the jewelry industry: Platinum, gold and silver workers;
chain, bracelet and locket makers; setters of precious stones, pearls atfd imi­
tations thereof; lapidary workers on precious stones and imitations thereof,
designers, engravers, chasers, enamelers and engine-turners; emblematic but­
tons, badges, pins, banners; society emblems, medal and medallion workers
and assemblers of same; modelers, casters, polishers, lappers and colorers;
platinum, gold and silver plating workers; refiners and melters; drop and
press hands and all metal mountings used in optical goods; makers of plati­
num, gold and silver findings; watchcase workers and repairers thereof;
watch and clock workers and repairers thereof; cigarette, vanity, watchcase,
mesh-bag and jewel-box workers of all metals; the making of all tools and
dies used in the jewelry industry; all metal and celluloid buttons and jewelry
vanity workers; all those employed in the making of jewelry novelties out
of precious and semiprecious metals of all descriptions. ”
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, 10 vice
presidents and secretary-treasurer.
“ The administrative powers of this body when not in convention shall be
vested in the general executive board with full power of supervision of the
entire affairs of the general body and its subordinate locals.”
2. Local unions: “ Government of all local unions and members shall be
vested in the international as the supreme head to which all matters of im­
portance shall be referred and whose decisions shall be final. Each local
union shall have the power to frame its own by-laws, which shall in no way
conflict with the constitution of the international. ”
3. Conventions: Meets biennially. Constitutional amendments either by con­
vention or by initiative and referendum. Nomination and election of general
officers by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any wage earner in any branch of the
industry under the jurisdiction of the International Jewelry Workers’ Union
is eligible for membership. Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Constitutional provision: “There shall be a
legal apprenticeship system established. The employer binding himself to
teach the jewelry trade, but such employer shall not have more than one
apprentice for every 10 journeymen in his employ. But not more than 3
apprentices will be allowed in any one shop.”
In practice apprenticeship
is regulated by local unions and no definite term is fixed.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions but approved by the general execu­
tive board. Union label in some union shops.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout.
Official organ.—None (Jewelry Workers* Monthly Bulletin discontinued).
Headquarters.—58 W. Washington Street, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—California, 1; Colorado, 1;
Illinois, 2; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 1; Michigan, 1; Missouri, 1; New
York, 2; Ohio, 1; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 1; Washington, 1. Canada—Mani­
toba, 1. Total, 15.
Membership.—Not reported; American Federation of Labor voting strength,
800.

POWDER AND HIGH EXPLOSIVE WORKERS OF AMERICA, UNITED
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized December 5, 1901, from local unions directly affiliated to the
American Federation of Labor.
Objects.—“ The objects of this organization are to organize and unite under
one banner all branches of our craft; * * * to assist each other in se­
curing employment, to reduce the hours of labor, to secure a higher standard
of wages for work performed, to oppose the use of machinery that is a source
of danger to life and limb and to minimize the risk by the use of the most
safe and improved machinery.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The manufacture of powder and high explosives.




MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURES

189

Government.—1. Executive council, composed of president, vice president,
and secretary-treasurer, has general supervisory authority over the organi­
zation.
2. Local unions: Subordinate, constitution imposed by general office, but
they “ shall have power to frame and adopt by-laws,” subject to the approval
of the executive board.
3. Convention: Biennial; enacts legislation and elects general officers. No
referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ To be eligible to membership the applicant
must be of good character and be engaged in the industry as a worker at
the time of application.” Male and female membership.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local unions, but must be uniform; contract
form issued by international. Union label used on products of union shops.
Hours: Constitutional 8-hour day in union shops.
Benefits.—Strike.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—Pittsburg, Kans.
Organization.—Local unions only: Arkansas, 1 ; Indiana, 2; Kansas, 2;
Missouri, 1; Pennsylvania, 1. Total, 7.
Membership.—Not reported. Voting strength in American Federation of
Labor, 200.

SAWSMITHS’ UNION OF NORTH AMERICA
An organization of saw makers was organized in 1902 from a group of
directly affiliated local American Federation of Labor unions. It remained in
affiliation to the federation from 1902 to 1924, when it was suspended. It was
never a large union, and at the time of its suspension had less than 100 mem­
bers. It continues to function in its field, however, and at present has two
locals, one in Indiana and one in New Tork, with headquarters in Indianapolis,
and a membership of about 100.

WIRE WEAVERS’ PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION, AMERICAN
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1882, as the American Wire Weavers’ Protective and Benevo­
lent Association. A former union of the craft was organized in 1876, but it
died out. The present organization was founded by the three divisions then
in existence. The word “ benevolent ” was dropped from the title some years
after the inauguration of the association. It is solely an economic, pricefixing body.
Objects.—“ To have supervision in all matters relating to Fourdrinier wire
weaving, and to bind the divisions closer together for the mutual advantage
and protection of all.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Fourdrinier wire weaving.
Government.—1. National executive board, composed of president, vice presi­
dent, secretary-treasurer, and one delegate from each division, has supervision
and control of all matters pertaining to the association.
2. Local divisions: Subordinate; autonomy not defined.
3. National executive board meets once a year and transacts general busi­
ness. General officers elected by general membership.
Qualifications for membership.—Applicants for membership must be “ Chris­
tian, white, male of the full age of 21, and have served an apprenticeship of
four years on a hand or power loom at the Fourdrinier wire-weaving trade
in a union shop.”
Foreigners applying for admission must declare citizenship intentions and
pay an initiation fee of $1,000.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“All apprentices shall be Christian white
males, and shall serve four years at the Fourdrinier wire-weaving trade.
“ No person shall be entitled to start his apprenticeship who has attained
the age of 21 yetfrs, unless he has been employed in the shop and is waiting
his turn to start on a loom.
“ The ratio of apprentices to journeymen shall be 1 to 7 on power looms
and 1 to 5 on hand looms.




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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

“ No journeyman shall be included in the count of the ratio of apprentices
unless he has been employed at least six months.
“All apprentices shall serve three of their four years on a loom if not con­
trary to the laws of the State.”
Agreements.—Negotiated annually by the national executive board, acting
under instructions from the divisions, in conference with the manufacturers.
Agreements cover entire industry, and cover price lists, which are uniform
throughout the industry. Union label.
Fifty-hour week by constitutional requirement. Saturday half holiday.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 9122 Eighty-ninth Street, Woodhaven, Long Island, N. Y.
Organization.—Local divisions only: Massachusetts, 1; New Jersey, 1; New
York, 1; Ohio, 2; Wisconsin, 1. Total, 6.
Membership.—380.




MISCELLANEOUS TRADES
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor:
Barbers* International Union of America, Journeymen______________ ___- ____
Bill Posters and Billers of America, International Alliance of______________
Building Service Employees, International Union---------------------------------------Clerks* International Protective Association, Retail__________________________
Horseshoers of the United States and Canada, International Union of Jour­
neymen________________________________________________________________
Laundry Workers’ International Union___________________________________
Stenographers and Bookkeepers (A. F. of L. locals).
Telegraphers’ Union of America, Commercial_______________________________
Independent:
Pharmacists, American Registered________________________________________
Telephone Workers, International Brotherhood of__________________________

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192
193
193
194
195
196
195
197

BARBERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF AMERICA, JOURNEYMEN
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized December 5, 1887, in Buffalo, N. Y. A union of barbers was
formed in 1878, known as the Barbers’ Protective Union, with headquarters
in Philadelphia. It was short-lived, but was succeeded by a number of local
unions, some of which were under the Knights of Labor. These local unions
came together in 1887 and formed the present organization. In 1924 the inter­
national amended its constitution so as to include woman barbers and hair­
dressers.
Objects.—To “ promote unity of sentiment and action among the journey­
men barbers of America, and join them closer together for mutual protection.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and possessions; Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The barber and hairdressing trade.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, secretarytreasurer and nine vice presidents, “ shall have full power to transact the
business of the organization during their term of office.”
2. Local unions: “ Each local union may make its own by-laws, which must,
however, be in accordance with this constitution, and subject to the approval
of the general president.” They may “ regulate the hours of labor, prices and
wages in their respective localities,” and “ shall have control over all local
affairs if not in conflict with the constitution.”
3. Convention: Held every five years. Enacts legislation and elects general
officers. Constitutional amendments by initiative and referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Any competent journeyman barber, hair­
dresser, waver, marceler, or cosmetician other than a member of the Oriental
race, not over 55 years of age, having served an apprenticeship of three years
at the trade,” is eligible to membership. Applicants over 55 years of age may
become nonbeneficiary members. Male and female membership. Proprietors
who are not employers may be members.
Apprenticeship regulations.—“ All apprentices must be registered with the
local union. * * * No shop displaying the union shop card shall accept
as an apprentice any person under the age of 16 years. ♦ ♦ * No shop
displaying the union shop card shall be allowed more than one apprentice at
any one time.” Apprenticeship term, three years.
Agreements.—Negotiated by local union, upon terms approved by interna­
tional officers before being submitted to employers. Commission, with mini­
mum wage guaranty. Union shop card agreements regulated by international
office.
Benefits.—Sick and death.
Official organ.—The Journeyman Barber.
®ead<juarter*,—No. 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Ind.




m

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HANDBOOK OF AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 13; Arizona, 7 ;
Arkansas, 10; California, 42; Colorado, 10; Connecticut, 20; District of Co­
lumbia, 2; Florida, 8; Georgia, 14; Idaho, 6; Illinois, 69; Indiana, 42; Iowa,
26; Kansas, 24; Kentucky, 17; Louisiana, 9; Maine, 7; Maryland, 2; Massa­
chusetts, 35; Michigan, 19; Minnesota, 16; Mississippi, 12; Missouri, 20;
Montana, 14; Nebraska, 10; Nevada, 2; New Hampshire, 6; New Jersey, 15;
New Mexico, 5; New York, 57; North Carolina, 5; North Dakota, 6; Ohio, 57;
Oklahoma, 38; Oregon, 12; Pennsylvania, 60; Rhode Island, 5; South Dakota, 4;
Tennessee, 9; Texas, 64; Utah, 2; Vermont, 5; Virginia, 9; Washington, 20;
West Virginia, 10; Wisconsin, 21; Wyoming, 6; Porto Rico, 2; Hawaii, 1.
Canada—Alberta, 4; British Columbia, 4; Ontario, 22; Quebec, 3; Saskatche­
wan, 2. Total, 910.
Membership.—50,282.

BILL POSTERS AND BILLERS OF AMERICA, INTERNATIONAL
ALLIANCE OF
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1903 from various directly affiliated American Federation of
Labor local unions, the first of which was formed in Chicago, in 1902.
Objects.—“ We hereby pledge ourselves to assist each other in securing
reasonable compensation for services rendered, and to use our influence with
other organized bodies to assist us in accomplishing our objects; to endeavor,
to the best of our ability, to disseminate useful information by means of
lectures, pamphlets and industrial literature among our coworkers and to de­
velop the intelligence which exists among our people. While we are opposed
to entering any political party as a body, we declare it to be our duty to
use our influence with the lawmaking power to secure the enactment of
laws beneficial to our interests and those of wage earners in general, and
to secure and Vetain employment for our members, to protect them from op­
pression, and to place ourselves on a foundation sufficiently strong to resist
any further encroachments on our rights.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Bill posting, billing, and advertising sign work.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, secretary,
and seven vice presidents, “ shall have the power to make laws not provided
for in the constitution,” and decide upon all grievances and appeals, subject
to review by the convention. The president “ shall exercise general supers
vision of the alliance’s jurisdiction. ”
2. Local unions: “ It shall be the cardinal principle of the alliance to pre­
serve home rule in every local where such rule does not conflict with the laws
of the international alliance, ” but “ no local shall engage in a strike without
the consent of the executive board.”
3. Convention: Biennial; enacts legislation and elects general officers. No
referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—“ Any man of the age of 18 years who has
been vouched for by two members in good standing of either the alliance or a
local, shall be entitled to membership. ” Every applicant must take an exami­
nation in practical work before he is admitted to membership.
Membership at large provided for workers where there is no local.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—“ Circus agreement ” negotiated and controlled by international
alliance. Other agreements negotiated locally with individual employers—are
substantially personal contracts..
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—Longacre Building, Forty-second and Broadway, New York
City.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—California, 3; Colorado,
1; Connecticut, 2; District of Columbia, 1; Illinois, 4; Indiana, 1; Iowa, 3;
Kansas, 1; Kentucky, 1; Louisiana, 1; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 6; Michi­
gan, 3; Minnesota, 3; Missouri, 4 ; Nebraska, 2; New Jersey, 5; New Hamp­
shire, 1; New York, 9; Ohio, 8; Oregon, 1; Pennsylvania, 9; Tennessee, 1;
Texas, 5; Utah, 1: Washington, 1; West Virginia, 1; Wisconsin, 1. Canada—
Ontario, 3; Quebec, 1. Total, 84.
Membership.—6,000.




MISCELLANEOUS TRADES

193

BUILDING SERVICE EMPLOYEES’ INTERNATIONAL UNION
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in 1917 from directly affiliated American Federation of Labor
local unions.
Objects.—“ The object of this international union shall be to develop a
closer union and more complete organization of all wage earners in the field
under its jurisdiction, and to assist its members in obtaining adequate com­
pensation for their labor and general improvement of the conditions under
which they work.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—The maintenance and upkeep of all private and public*
buildings, institutions, schools, and grounds; such as apartment houses, apart­
ment hotels, flat buildings, office buildings, theaters, schools, hospitals, public
auditoriums, amusement halls, parks, stores, factories, card and billiard rooms,
which include such workers as janitors and janitresses, elevator operators,
starters, window cleaners, scrub women, maids, housekeepers, watchmen in
buildings and industrial plants, including those used for fire prevention,
door tenders, ushers, cashiers, and any other employees not herein specified who
are engaged in the maintenance and upkeep of such places.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president, secretarytreasurer, five vice presidents, and one trustee, “ shall transact all business
of the international union between conventions.” President is the adminis­
trative officer and has “ supervisory power over local unions and the member­
ship thereof.”
2. Local unions: “ The constitution and by-laws of all local unions must be
submitted to the international union for approval.”
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention only—no referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any person engaged in work under the
jurisdiction is eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—None.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 166 West Washington Street, Chicago, HI.
Organization.—Information withheld.
Membership.—6,200.

CLERKS’ INTERNATIONAL PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION, RETAIL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Detroit, Mich., December, 1890, as a national union. With
extension of jurisdiction to Canada the name was changed in 1899 to the
present one.
Objects.—“ For the purpose of promoting unity and sentiment of action
among the retail clerks and joining them closer together for mutual pro­
tection.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—The selling force of mercantile and mail-order estab­
lishments (other than the liquor trade).
Government.—1. Executive board consists of president, seven vice presidents
and a secretary-treasurer. President is the chief administrative officer with
wide powers.
2. District organizations composed of the local unions within an assigned
territory and “ subject to the jurisdiction, laws, rules, and usages of the inter­
national association.”
3. Local unions: “ All local unions shall be under the jurisdiction of the
international and district associations and may make such laws for their
government as they deem necessary, provided they do not conflict with the
international and district constitution or agreements entered into.”
4. Covention: Triennial. Nomination and election of officers by referendum.
Constitutional amendments by convention or by initiative or referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—All persons employed in mercantile or mail
order establishments who are actively engaged in handling or selling mer­
chandise and who have reached the age of 16 years are eligible to member­
ship. Male and female membership.




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All applicants between the ages of 16 and 50 who are not afflicted with a
chronic or incurable disease become beneficiary members. Applicants over 50
and those afflicted with a chronic or incurable disease are classed as non.beneficiary.
Apprenticeship regulations.—None.
Agreements.—Union store card. Agreement drawn up by the international
officers, but negotiated locally. Agreements deal chiefly with working hours
and must be uniform throughout the jurisdiction of the district association.
Benefits.—Sick and funeral.
Official organ.—The Retail Clerks* International Advocate.
Headquarters.—La Fayette, Ind.
Organization.—Information withheld.
Membership.—Withheld; American Federation of Labor voting strength,
10,000.

HORSESHOERS OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA, INTER­
NATIONAL UNION OF JOURNEYMEN
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized April 27, 1874, as the Journeymen Horseshoers’ National Union
of the United States of America. With extension of jurisdiction to Canada,
this name was changed in 1893 to the present title. The name was incorporated
in the State of Ohio, August 14, 1912.
Objects.—“ The object for which our international union is formed and
maintained is for the purpose of organizing local unions and to facilitate a
thorough organization of the trade throughout the United States and Canada
for mutual benefit and protection.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Horseshoeing.
Government.—1. General officers: President (who is also general organizer),
three vice presidents and secretary-treasurer, who comprise the executive
council.
2. Local unions: "Each local union shall adopt a constitution and by-laws
not in conflict with the articles of incorporation and by-laws of the interna­
tional union.
3. Convention: Meets annually; elects general officers.
Qualifications for membership.—Any competent horseshoer who is capable
of earning the minimum scale of wages established by the local union having
jurisdiction over the locality where he is employed may make application for
membership in that local, and if he is temperate and of good character, and
complies with all the requirements prescribed in these by-laws, he may be
elected to membership, provided there are no members of the local out of em­
ployment.
Apprenticeship regulations.—The term of apprenticeship shall be four years,
or less, providing apprentice becomes a proficient mechanic.
“ Only one apprentice shall be allowed to work in any shop within the juris­
diction of any local union, and any shop employing more than one apprentice
shall be declared 'unfair.* ”
Agreements.—Uniform agreement negotiated by local unions but sanctioned
by executive board. Union label; union shop card.
Benefits.—Strike and lockout (local and national).
Official organ.—Journeymen Horseshoers* Monthly Magazine.
Headquarters.—Second National Bank Building. Cincinnati, Ohio.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—Alabama, 2; Arkansas, 1 ;
California, 10; Colorado, 2; Connecticut, 4; Delaware, 1; District of Columbia,
1; Florida, 1; Georgia, 1; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 18; Indiana, 9; Iowa, 5; Kansas,
2; Kentucky, 2; Louisiana, 2; Maryland, 1; Massachusetts, 9; Michigan, 6;
Minnesota, 5; Mississippi, 1; Missouri, 5; Montana, 5; Nebraska, 2; New
Hampshire, 1; New Jersey, 7; New York, 19; Ohio, 12; Oklahoma, 3; Oregon,
1; Pennsylvania, 8; Rhode Island, 1; Tennessee, 1; Texas, 7; Utah, 2; Vir­
ginia, 2; Washington, 3; West Virginia, 2; Wisconsin, 5; Wyoming, 1. Can­
ada—British Columbia, 2; Manitoba, 1; Ontario, 3; Quebec, 1. Total, 178.
Membership.—Not reported; American Federation of Labor voting strength,

2,000.




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195

LAUNDRY WORKERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Troy, N. Y., in November, 1900. This union started in 1898 as
a directly affiliated American Federation of Labor local composed of shirt and
collar workers in the factories at Troy, N. Y. It grew, in 1900, into the
Shirt Waist and Laundry Workers’ International Union. It continued to
control both the making and the laundering of shirts and collars until 1909,
when jurisdiction over the manufacturing end was taken over by the United
Garment Workers, the original charter being surrendered and a new one
granted which gave jurisdiction over laundries only. With the adoption of
cleaning and dyeing processes by laundries, the Laundry Workers’ Interna­
tional Union assumed and now exercises control of workers in that line who
are employed in laundries, by agreement with the Journeymen Tailors’ Union,
whose charter covers cleaning, dyeing, and pressing.
Objects.—“ First, to organize and cooperate with all laundry workers; sec­
ond, to abolish competition in each respective branch of the trade, by securing
a universally equal and just rate of wages without resorting to strikes; third,
to discourage Asiatic, sweatshop, child, and convict labor by creating a demand
for the union label at all times.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada.
Trade jurisdiction.—Customs laundries.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of president and four
vice presidents, has general power and supervision over the organization.
2. Local unions: “ To subordinate unions is granted the right of making
all necessary laws for self-government which do not conflict with the laws
of the international, and which have been approved by the general president.”
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation. Constitutional amend­
ments adopted by convention must be ratified by referendum. Amendments
and other legislation by initiative and referendum as well as by convention.
Nomination and election of general officers by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—All persons actually employed in laundries
are eligible to membership. Male and female membership.
Foremen and forewomen and supervisors with power to hire and discharge
are retained at option of local union.
Apprenticeship.—None.
Agreements.—Formulated by local unions and submitted to international
officers for approval before beginning negotiations, which are carried on with
individual employers.
Contracts provide, as a rule, for union shop (sometimes union label), hours,
overtime regulations and rates, weekly wages, conciliation of disputes, and
shop sanitation.
Benefits.—Strike, lockout, and victimization.
Official organ.—None.
Headquarters.—No. 799 Second Avenue, Troy, N. Y.
Organization.—Local unions only: United States—-California, 14; Colorado.
1 ; District of Columbia, 1; Idaho, 1; Illinois, 7; Indiana, 3; Iowa, 1; Kansas,
1; Massachusetts, 3; Michigan, 1; Missouri, 1; Montana, 5; New York, 2;
Oklahoma, 4; Oregon, 3; Texas, 1; Vermont, 1; Washington, 6 ; Wyoming,
3. Canada—Alberta, 1; Ontario, 1. Total, 61.
Membership.—6,500.

PHARMACISTS, AMERICAN REGISTERED
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in San Francisco, Calif., in 1901, beginning as a small local or­
ganization of drug store clerks in San Francisco. Branches were organized
and brought together in one body called the California Drug Clerks’ Associa­
tion. Subsequently adopting the title “ American Registered Pharmacists,”
the organization has sought to become national in character. So far, however,
the organization is limited to California.
Objects.—“ The aims and objects shall be to promote a higher standard of
pharmacy, encourage sociability, extend sick and death benefits, maintain a
satisfactory wage scale, shorten the hours of labor, procure employment.for
and generally improve the conditions of all its members.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States.
Trade jurisdiction.—Registered pharmacists.




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196

Government.—1. “ The board of directors shall have jurisdiction and au­
thority over all matters relating to the welfare of the organization, between
sessions.” General officers: President, two vice presidents, secretary, treasurer,
board of directors of nine elected members. The president is an administra­
tive officer subject to the control of the board of directors.
2. Local unions: “ Branches,” subordinate. Constitution and by-laws de­
termined by general organization.
3. Convention: Held annually; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitutional amendments by convention vote. No referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any reputable person 18 years of age or
over who possesses a certificate of registration from a State or territorial
board of pharmacy as a registered licentiate pharmacist or registered assistant
pharmacist, is eligible to membership.
Applicants for beneficiary membership must be between 18 and 50 and of
sound physical condition.
Apprenticeship regulations.—Determined by State laws.
Agreements.—None.
Benefits.—Sick; funeral; employment bureau.
Official organ.—The American Registered Pharmacist Journal.
Headquarters.—Room 619, Pacific Building, San Francisco, Calif.
Organization.—Local unions (California): Alameda County (Oakland, Ala­
meda, and Berkeley); Fresno; Kern County (Bakersfield); Sacramento; San
Francisco; San Jose; Stockton.
Membership.—2,500.

TELEGRAPHERS’ UNION OF AMERICA, COMMERCIAL
Affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
Organized in Washington, D. C., in March, 1903, as the result of an
amalgamation of two organizations, the International Union of Commercial
Telegraphers, with headquarters at Chicago, and the Order of Commercial
Telegraphers with headquarters at St. Louis.
The International Union of Commercial Telegraphers had its inception at
Chicago in June, 1902, and held its first convention in Chicago in September
of the same year.
The order of Commercial Telegraphers was the outgrowth of the Brother­
hood of Commercial Telegraphers fostered by the Order of Railroad Telegra­
phers from 1897 to 1902.
Both organizations applied for a charter from the American Federation of
Labor in 1902. The American Federation of Labor convention ordered a joint
conference of the two organzations, which took place in Washington in March,
1903, and an amalgamation resulted. The Commercial Telegraphers’ Union of
America was agreed upon as the title of the amalgamated organization, and
the first convention was held in New York in July 1903.
Objects.—“ To protect, maintain, and advance trade interests and to secure
better conditions of employment; to establish and uphold a fair and equitable
rate of wages; to give all moral and material aid in our power to members
and those dependent upon them; to distinguish the work performed by mem­
bers of the union and make it preferred; to discourage the indiscriminate
teaching of telegraphy.”
Territorial jurisdiction.—United States and Canada..
Trade jurisdiction.—All branches of the telegraph service except railroad.
Government.—1. General officers are: President, vice president, secretarytreasurer, and five elected members comprising the general executive board.
The president is the chief executive officer, subject to instructions and advice
of the general executive board. The vice president is the administrative officer
for the Dominion of Canada. The general executive board has appellate power.
2. Subordinate units: Territory defined and allocated by general assembly to
subordinate units “ known as systems divisions, broker divisions and such other
private-wire divisions as may be found necessary to conform to this union’s
principle of complete autonomy for the various branches of the commercial
telegraph.”
“ District councils may be formed upon approval by the international presi­
dent, by seven or more members in good standing of two or more subordi­
nate units. * * * The purpose of the district council shall be to carry on
social, fraternal, and legislative activities of the union * * * and for these




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197

purposes the council may act concurrently with the subordinate units. Per­
sons employed in branches of the service over which no subordinate unit has
jurisdiction shall carry their membership in the district council.”
3. Convention: Held biennially; enacts legislation and elects general officers.
Constitution amendments by convention or by referendum.
Qualifications for membership.—Any white person of good moral character
who is over 16 years of age and is actually employed as a commercial tele­
grapher or as an operative connected with an automatic telegraph machiney and
maintenance of lines, bookkeeper or clerk in the commercial telegraph service,
or in the operation of a telephone, shall be eligible to membership. Any com­
mercial telegrapher, although not actually so employed, is eligible to member­
ship. Male and female membership.
Agreements.—Agreements covering press division negotiated by general offi­
cers. Other agreements negotiated by division committees. “A district, divi­
sion, or general committee shall not be authorized to establish or regulate a
scale of wages affecting members other than those it represents,” and “ no
committee shall present a schedule, contract, or agreement to their employers
nor attempt to secure its adoption, until it has first been approved by the
international president.”
Benefits.—Funeral.
Official organ.—The Commercial Telegraphers’ Journal.
Headquarters.—No. 113 South Ashland Boulevard, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Three separate and autonomous divisions:
Commercial, divided into 11 systems divisions: Canadian Pacific; Govern­
ment Telegraphers of British Columbia and the Yukon; Canadian Government
Telegraphers (central); Western Union; Postal Telegraph; American Tele­
phone and Telegraph; Pipe Line; Packers’ ; United States Government;
Buffalo; Canadian National.
Press, divided into 5 systems divisions: International News Service; United
Press; Canadian; Associated Press; National Press.
These in turn are subdivided into circuits, under a general chairman.
Broker, divided into 15 systems divisions: Eastern (Maryland) ; New Eng­
land ; Western; Eastern Canada; Southwest; Michigan; Ohio; Middle Western;
Atlantic (Pennsylvania); Philadelphia; Pacific Coast; Southern; Ontario;
Western Canada; Southeast
District councils: United States—Baltimore; Buffalo; Chicago; Des Moines;
Fire Telegraphers’ Council (New Y ork); Memphis; Milwaukee; New York
City; Pittsburgh. Ganada—Montreal; Toronto; Vancouver; Winnipeg.
General assembly (headquarters 113 South Ashland Boulevard, Chicago),
for members not permanently located.
Membership.—5,000.

TELEPHONE WORKERS, INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF
Not affiliated to the American Federation of Labor.
No information was received from this organization. It was formed by a
secession group of linemen who withdrew from the International Brotherhood
of Electrical Workers. As at first organized it was a militant body formed
along industrial lines to cover all branches of telephone employment. Its
field has never extended beyond New England. Changes in policy and per­
sonnel have taken place since its inception, and it is now generally regarded
as a company union of the New England Telephone Co. Headquarters are in
the Kimball Building, Boston, Mass.

INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD
The Industrial Workers of the World was organized at Chicago, 111., July
7,1905, at a conference instigated chiefly by the Western Federation of Miners
and the American Labor Union. Represented in the conference were the two
organizations mentioned, the Socialist Trades and Labor Alliances, the United
Brotherhood of Railway Employees, and numerous other organizations among
which were 16 American Federation of Labor unions who were in sympathy
with the movement to organize all wage workers into one organization. Nu­
merically, the Western Federation of Miners was the strongest organization
in the group, but the Socialist Trades and Labor Alliances proved influential
enough to inject partisan politics into the first conference. Discord over the
question of political action resulted in 1906 in the withdrawal of the Western




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HANDBOOK OP AMERICAN TRADE-UNIONS

Federation of Miners from the I. W. W., and in 1908 in a division of the
organization into two factions. Each side continued to function as the In­
dustrial Workers of the World, the seceding element, which was the expo­
nent of socialistic party activities, establishing headquarters in Detroit, Mich.
This state of affairs continued until 1915, when the Detroit faction gave up
the title “ I. W. W.” and became the Workers International Industrial Union.
This group, by formal resolution, went out of existence in 1924 and turned
its records and properties over to the Socialist Labor Party. The Chicago
faction continues as the Industrial Workers of the World.
Objects.—“ The working class and the employing class have nothing in com­
mon. There can be no peace so long as hunger and want are found among
millions of the working people and the few, who make up the employing class,
have all the good things of life.
“ Between these two classes a struggle must go on until the workers of
the world organize as a class, take possession of the earth and the machinery
of production and abolish the wage system.
“ * * ♦ It is the historic mission of the working class to do away
with capitalism. The army of production must be organized not only for
the everyday struggle with capitalists, but also to carry on production when
capitalism shall have been overthrown. By organizing industrially we are
forming the structure of the new society within the shell of the old. ”
Jurisdiction.—The Industrial Workers of the World shall be composed of
actual wage workers brought together in an organization embodying industrial
departments, industrial unions, industrial unions with branches, industrial dis­
trict councils, and general district councils.
Departments.—“ An industrial department shall be made of industrial unions
of closely kindred industries’* and “ shall have general supervision over the
affairs of the industrial unions” of which it is composed.
“ The departments shall be designated as follows: Department of agricul­
ture, land, fisheries and water products; department of mining; department
of transportation and communication; department of manufacturing and gen­
eral production; department of construction; department of public service.”
Industrial unions.—“ Industrial unions shall be composed of actual wage
workers in a given industry welded together as the particular requirements
of said industry may render necessary. ”
Councils.—General industrial union district councils, composed of delegates
of two or more Industrial unions in a given district; industrial district coun­
cils, composed of delegates from shops and branches of each industry within a
given district.
Government.—1. General executive board, composed of the general secretary*
treasurer and seven elected members, “ shall have general supervision of the
entire affairs of the organization between conventions. ” Its decisions “ on all
matters pertaining to the organization or any subordinate part thereof shall
be binding, subject to appeal to the next convention or to the membership.’*
It “ shall be assisted by the officers and members of all organizations sub­
ordinate to the I. W. W. ”
2. Industrial unions “ shall have power to enact such laws for their gov­
ernment as they may deem necessary,” consistent with the constitution and
by-laws of the general organization.
3. Convention: Held annually. “ The convention of the I. W. W. is the
legislative body of the organization.” All legislative enactments and con­
stitutional amendments passed by the convention are, however, subsequently
submitted to general referendum. Legislation and constitutional amend­
ments may also be initiated and referred.
General officers are nominated by convention and elected by referendum.
Subject to recall vote.
Qualifications for membership.—“ None but actual wage workers shall be
members,” but “ no working man or woman shall be excluded from mem­
bership because of creed or color. * * ♦ Editors of papers not controlled
by the I. W. W. shall not be eligible to membership. ”
Agreements.—“ Any agreement entered into between the members of any
organization and their employers shall not be considered valid until approved
by the general executive board. ” Agreements may not be made for a specified
time or contain a provision that the membership is bound to give notice before
making demands affecting hours, wages, and shop conditions.
Benefits.—None.




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Official organ.—Industrial
Solidarity
(weekly), Industrial Pioneer
(monthly). Other publications of the I. W. W. are local and in foreign lan­
guages.
Headquarters.—No. 8338 Belmont Avenue, Chicago, 111.
Organization.—Industrial unions functioning at present are: Agricultural
Workers, Lumber Workers, Coal and Metal Miners (headquarters Butte,
Mont.), Oil Workers, General Construction (railroad, road, bridges, etc.),
House and Building Construction, Metal and Machinery Workers, Food Stuff
Workers, Marine Transport Workers (headquarters New York City), Rail­
road Workers, and a group classed as small unions containing textile workers.
Membership.—30,000.

KNIGHTS OF LABOR (INC.). ORDER OF
Because of the policy of secrecy still practiced by the Order of the Knights
of Labor, accurate data are not obtainable. The best information which can
be secured indicates that the only remaining organizations of the Knights of
Labor which are actually functioning as labor unions are in various branches
of the municipal service in Boston, Mass., and two locals in the shoe industry
in Ohio. Headquarters of the order are at 228 Tremont Street, Boston. In­
formation dealing with total membership is not given out by the order.

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