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Labor Union Pamphlet collection

 Collection — Multiple Containers
Identifier: MC-457

Scope and Contents

This artificial collection contains handbooks, pamphlets and booklets from various Montana labor unions, including Constitutions, Bylaws, Trade Rules, Agreements, Welfare Plans, and more. Primary unions include the unions associated with the American Federation of Labor, the AFL-CIO, Anaconda Company and Montana Contractors' Association, and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners in America. Dates range from 1895-1995 with the bulk of materials produced from 1950-1989.

Dates

  • Creation: 1895-1995

Language of Materials

English

Conditions Governing Access

Collection open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

Researchers must use collection in accordance with the policies of the Montana Historical Society. The Society does not necessarily hold copyright to all materials in the collection. In some cases permission for use may require additional authorization from the copyright owners. For more information contact an archivist.

Historical Note

Organized labor in Montana extends back into the territorial period, the in 1860s. The first labor union to organize in Montana was the Helena Typographical Union Local No. 95, established in 1866. Labor unions experienced significant growth after Montana joined the United States as the 41st state in 1889, including the establishment of locals for the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, the United Association of Journeymen Plumbers, Gas-Fitters, Steam-Fitters and Steam-Fitters Helpers, and the Women’s Protective Union. By 1900, Montana had over 124 labor unions and 22,000 members, making it the strongest state for labor unions in the U.S. In 1955, the AFL and CIO merged into the AFL-CIO and by 1989 the Montana State AFL-CIO had 40,000 members. Union membership began to decline beginning at the end of the 20th century, although unions continue to play a large role in Montana politics and employment.

Extent

2.5 linear feet

Abstract

This is an artificial collection containing handbooks, pamphlets and booklets from various Montana labor unions. Booklets include Constitutions, Bylaws, Trade Rules, Agreements, Welfare plans, and more. Dates range from 1895 to 1995.

Arrangement

Pamphlets are arranged alphabetically.

Physical Location

89: 6-1

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Acquisition information available upon request.

Title
Guide to the Labor Union Pamphlet Collection1895-1995
Author
Finding aid prepared by Lindsey Mick
Date
2022
Description rules
Finding Aid Based On Dacs (Describing Archives: A Content Standard, 2nd Edition)
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latn
Language of description note
Finding aid written in English.

Repository Details

Part of the Montana Historical Society, Research Center Archives Repository

Contact:
225 North Roberts
PO Box 201201
Helena MT 59620-1201 United States
406-444-2681
406-444-2696 (Fax)