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Beginning in 1900, the Pacific Northwest is a hotbed of union activity, including violent strikes by the International Workers of the World (IWW), calling for all workers to overthrow timber company owners. Unions organized by trade, such as the Shingle Weavers' Union, strike for recognition by management, increased wages, and shorter hours.
Port Angeles Unions
Port Angeles Unions
The Port Angeles, Washington Carnegie library hosts union meetings. A significant number of men sign up for a union card at the first meetings, and brawls between police and loggers pose challenges for unions.
Workers on Strike
Workers on Strike
This 1912 photo of timberworkers on strike shows the enduring desire for better working conditions in the woods and mills. Loggers and mill workers continued to strike until 1918, the beginning of significant U.S. involvement in the Great War.
Government Union
Government Union
In November 1917, the Army begins logging spruce to build warplanes. The Army, unions, and timber companies compromise on a mandatory union, the Loyal Legion of Loggers and Lumbermen, known as the 4Ls. To join, loggers must renounce other unions, but the 4Ls provide good pay and working conditions.
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