Existing comment:
1879-2006
The Dream is Born:
In 1890, a group of St. Louis electrical workers organize and affiliate with the American Federation of Labor (AFL) as Federal Labor Union 5221. In January 1891, Henry Miller is elected the second president of the local. He knows that electrical workers will only improve their lives through a national organization. Using his own funds and "riding the rails," Miller organizes other locals. Ten delegates, mostly linemen from eight small to medium-sided Midwestern cities, convene on November 21, 1891, in St. Louis. The convention adopts a constitution, a name, an emblem and a dues structure. The National Brotherhood of Electrical Workers is born. Miller is elected Grand President and hits the organizing trail in a world entering a new era of technological advancement. |