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A Documentary History of
American Industrial
Society
Volume VI
Ely Moore
Labor's first congressman, 1 834-1 838, president of the General Trades' Union
of New York, 1 833-1 835, and president of the National Trades' Union, 1 834-1 835
yFrom a craxori portrait presented to Eh Moore b\ President Andrew Jackson
,n 1837)
A Documentary History of
American Industrial
Society
Edited by John R. Commons
Ulrich B. Phillips, Eugene A. Gilmore
Helen L. Sumner, and John B. Andrews
Prepared under the auspices of the American Bureau of
Industrial Research, with the co-operation of the
Carnegie Institution of Washington
With preface by Richard T. Ely
and introdud:ion by John B. Clark '
Volume VI .
Labor Movement
Cleveland, Ohio
The Arthur H. Clark Company
I 9 I o
Copyright, 1910, by
THE ARTHUR H. CLARK CO.
All rights reserved
AMERICAN BUREAU OF INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH
DIRECTORS AND EDITORS
Richard T. Ely, PH.D., LL.D., Professor of Political Economy,
University of Wisconsin
John R. Commons, a.m.. Professor of Political Economy,
University of Wisconsin
John B. Clark, PH.D., LL.D., Professor of Political Economy,
Columbia University
V. EVERIT MacY, Chairman, New York City
Albert Shaw, PH.D., LL.D., Editor, American Review
of Reviews
UlRICH B. Phillips, PH.D., Professor of History and Political
Science, Tulane University
Eugene A. GiLMORE, LL.B., Professor of Law,
University of Wisconsin
Helen L. Sumner, PH.D., United States Bureau of Labor
John B. Andrews, ph.d.. Secretary,
American Association for Labor Legislation
THE DOCUMENTARY HISTORY OF AMERICAN
INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY COMPRISES—
Vol. I Plantation and Frontier, Volume 1,
by Ulrich B. Phillips
Vol. II Plantation and Frontier, Volume 2,
by Ulrich B. Phillips
Vol. Ill Labor Conspiracy Cases, 1806-1842, Volume 1,
by John R. Commons and Eugene A. Gilmore
VOL. IV Labor Conspiracy Cases, 1806-1842, Volume 2,
by John R. Commons and Eugene A. Gilmore
Vol. V Labor Movement, 1820-1840, Volume 1,
by John R. Commons and Helen L. Sumner
Vol. VI Labor Movement, 1820-1840, Volume 2,
by John R. Commons and Helen L. Sumner
VOL. VII Labor Movement, 1840-1860, Volume 1,
by John R. Commons
VOL. VIII Labor Movement, 1840-1860, Volume 2,
by John R. Commons
VOL. IX Labor Movement, 1860-1880, Volume 1,
by John R. Commons and John B. Andrews
VOL. X Labor Movement, 1860-1880, Volume 2,
by John R. Commons and John B. Andrews
LABOR MOVEMENT
1820-1840
Selected, Collated, and Edited by
JOHN R. COMMONS, A.M.
Professor of Political Economy,
University of Wisconsin
and
HELEN L. SUMNER, ph.d.
United States Bureau of Labor
Volume n
CONTENTS
VI General Trades' Union of the City and County of
Philadelphia (continued)
3 The Cordwainers . . . • . .21
(a) A Statement of Grievances
(b) The Attitude of the Employers
(c) The Pressure of Competition
(d) The Cordwainers stand by the Trades' Union
(e) The Employers oppose the Union
(f ) The Advance in Wages and Prices
4 The Ten-hour Strikes of 1835 . . . -39
(a) Influence of the Boston Circular
(b) A Meeting of Citizens
(c) A Hostile Account of the Results
5 The House Carpenters' Strike, 1836 . . -SO
(a) The Master Carpenters attack the Trades' Union
(b) The Journe5'men state their Case
6 Cooperation . . . . . . -So
(a) Progress and Warning
(b) Trades' Union Conference
7 The Working Mens Convention, 1838-1839 . . 66
(a) Call for the Convention
(b) Proceedings
VII Other City Central Organizations
Introduction . . . . . . -73
I Boston . . . . • . '76
(a) House Carpenters' Strike of 1825
(i) Resolutions of Master Carpenters
(2) Notice to House Carpenters in the Country
(3) Resolutions of "Capitalists"
(b) Ship Carpenters' Strike of 1832
(i) Meeting of Merchants and Ship Owners
(2) Statement of the Journeymen
(3) Position of the Master Ship-carpenters
14 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
(c) Trades' Union of Boston and Vicinity, 1834
(i) Call for a Convention
(2) Formation of the Union
(3) Attitude towards Employers
(4) Ten-hour Circular
2 Baltimore ....... lOO
(a) The Hatters' Lockout
(i) Meeting of Mechanics to support the Hatters
(2) Statement of the Master Hatters' Association
(b) The Union Trade Society
(i) Its Formation
(2) Address to Mechanics
(c) Baltimore Trades' Union
(i) Report on Condition and Prospects
{2) Routine Business
3 Washington . . . . . . . I16
(a) Address to the Working Men of the District
(b) Proceedings, 1836
4 Albany . . . . . . -141
(a) Action of the Saddlers and Harness Makers
(b) Call for a Convention
(c) Preliminary Meeting
(d) Proceedings of the Trades' Union
5 Newark . . . . . -175
VIII The National Trades' Union
Introduction . . . . . . . 191
1 The Call for a National Union of the Trades . . 194
(a) Invitation to Trades' Unions
(b) Invitation to all Trade Societies
2 The Convention of 1834 - • • • .196
(a) List of Delegates
(b) Proceedings
(c) Debate on the Word Politics
(d) Discussion on the Condition of Females in Manufac-
turing Establishments
(e) Constitution
3 The Convention of 1835 ..... 228
(a) Proceedings
(b) Constitution
4 The Convention of 1836 ..... 264
(a) Call for the Convention
six] CONTENTS 15
(b) Proceedings
(c) Report of the Committee on Female Labor
(d) Report of the Committee on Education
(e) Report of the Committee on Trades' Unions
(f ) Report of the Committee on the State Prison Ques-
tion
(g) Report of the Committee on Cooperation
(h) Report of the Committee on the Ten-hour System
on Government Works
(i) Constitution
5 The Convention of 1837 ..... 308
IX National Trade Unions
Introduction . . . . . . • 3II
1 Cordwainers . . . . . •314
(a) Resolutions regarding Correspondence
(b) The Preliminary Meeting in 1835
(c) The Convention of March, 1836
(i) Call for the Convention
(2) Proceedings
(d) Call for a Convention in November, 1836
(e) Call for a Convention in September, 1837
2 Comb Makers ...... 332
3 Carpenters ....... 33^
(a) Call for a Convention
(b) Proceedings of the Convention
4 Hand Loom Weavers . . . . 34^
(a) The Call of the New York Weavers
(b) The Call of the Philadelphia Weavers
5 Printers ....... 343
(a) Extension of the Area of Competition
(b) The Convention of 1836
(c) Call for the 1837 Convention
(d) The Convention of 1837
ILLUSTRATIONS
Portrait of Ely Moore .... Frontispiece
From a crayon portrait presented to Ely Moore by President
Andrew Jackson in 1837
Typical Title-pages of Labor Papers, i 820-1 840 . .141
Reduced photographic facsimile
VI
GENERAL
TRADES' UNION OF THE
CITY AND COUNTY OF PHILADELPHIA
\_Continued and Completed from volume vJ\
3. THE CORDWAINERS
(a) A STATEMENT OF GRIEVANCES
Pennsylvanian, April 4, 1835, p. 2, col. 6.
This address was adopted at a meeting of Cordwainers at which a
resolution was passed highly approving of the Trades' Union.
To the Journeymen Cordwainers of the City and
County of Philadelphia.
Fellow Craftsmen : We have been called together
for the purpose of devising some means to benefit our
trade. But before we can adopt any measures to bene-
fit our condition we must first ascertain what our real
condition is; and if our trade labors under any diffi-
culties, what are the causes which have produced them -
and then we can with a greater degree of certainty apply
the proper remedy.
In the first place then, what is our condition? Need
such a question be asked? Are we not all fully convinced
that we have to work a greater number of hours, and
for less wages than any other class of mechanics? It is
evident that we are, while numbers of other tradesmen
are receiving from eight to twelve dollars per week
for their labor, and in many instances, only working
ten hours per day, we have been content with the scanty
pittance of from four to six dollars, and for that sum
have to work, in many instances, fourteen hours per
day.
This, fellow craftsmen, is not an exaggerated state-
ment, for it has been proved, on an examination of the
books of one of the largest manufacturing establish-
22 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ments, in the men's branch, in this city, that the aver-
age wages of from thirty to fifty men there employed
does not exceed four dollars and twenty-five cents each
week; and to make this fact more manifest, it is almost
unnecessary to revert to the fact, that when one of our
trade earns from nine to ten dollars per week, his fame
as a ready workman is trumpeted throughout the city.
But the general opinions of our employers, are, that if
one of their journeymen makes more than two pair of
first rate boots, or four, or at most, five pair of feet at
$1.12^ per pair, justice is not done to the work, and
he is consequently limited in the quantity to be made.
We are now led to enquire what causes have pro-
duced this deplorable result -whether it has been the
grinding avarice of our employers or our own negli-
gence. And in this enquiry we will no doubt find that
both are to blame ; but that the journeymen, of the two
parties, are the most culpable.
If we take a retrospective view of our trade, we will
find, that but a few years ago the slowest of our profes-
sion could earn at least seven or eight dollars per week,
and that, by no greater exertion than it now requires
to make four or five -that such an article as boots was
then unknown in the Market street shops: the manu-
facturing of that article being confined exclusively to
those, who having served an apprenticeship to the bus-
iness, knew best its value.
Unfortunately for us, a difference took place between
the journeymen and employers -the employers desirous
of restraining the just demands of their journeymen -
and the journeymen determined to secure their rights.
A fatal measure was then adopted by the journeymen -
no less a one than opening shops for the manufacture of
cheap work -this was done for the purpose of coercing
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 23
employers into their measures- and as a means of giv-
ing themselves employment until their demands were
satisfied. But had they looked for one moment into
the results of such an experiment, (for it was but an
experiment), had they contemplated the fatal effects of
their actions on future generations, so far as their own
trade was concerned; they certainly never would have
went so far to carry their own measures, as to retail
a load of misery on all who were to come after them.
From that time to the present the trade has been grad-
ually sinking, at least so far as the interests of the jour-
neymen were concerned. "The cunning men of the
East" have come to our city, and having capital them-
selves, or joining with those who had, have embarked
in our business, and realized large fortunes, by reduc-
ing our wages, making large quantities of work, and
selling at a reduced price, while those who had served
their time to the trade, and had an anxious desire to
foster and cherish its interests, have had to abandon
the business, or enter into the system of manufacturing
largely [i.e., on a large scale], in order to save them-
selves from bankruptcy.
But fellow craftsmen -the causes of our present con-
dition are not all told -only three years since, and a
journeyman working on this cheap work, could earn
from 25 to 33 per cent more than he can at present -
whence arises this disparity in the wages of the jour-
neyman? How can it be that without any positive re-
duction of our wages, we are unable to earn more than
two thirds as much as we were a short time ago? The
answer is plain and simple -by making cheap work,
triple the quantity has to be made to obtain a living:
this produces, at dull seasons, a surplus of work in the
market; and these large manufacturers taking advan-
24 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
tage of the times, have compelled their journeymen to
make the work so far superior to the manner in which
it was originally made for the wages given, that it is
now brought into competition with first rate work.
This again lessens the quantity of first-rate work
made, and the journeymen, formerly working for em-
ployers who gave them $2.75 for each pair of boots
made, are forced to seek employment of the very men
who had ruined their business. Thus it is that jour-
neymen who formerly worked on nothing but first-
rate work, are brought into direct competition with
those of inferior abilities in point of workmanship ; and
they in turn are compelled to spend their time, to im-
prove their work, without the most distant hope of a
remuneration for their labor -or else they are dis-
charged and the better workmen continued in their
places. . .
What is the proper remedy for the evils under which
we suffer? What are the best means of benefitting our
trade? These are questions more easily asked than an-
swered. But, fellow-craftsmen, one thing is certain -
if we do not attempt to remedy our condition, our-
selves, no one will do it for us: and so long as we con-
tinue separate and disunited we can accomplish nothing.
"In union there is strength" is a motto inscribed on our
banner. It is a maxim universally admitted that where
the journeymen mechanics, of any branch, are perfectly
united, their just demands would be immediately ac-
knowledged, and their rights secured to them.
Why is it then that we cannot unite, when all admit
that union is imperiously demanded to secure and main-
tain our rights? It must be that the efforts made to ob-
tain it have not been sufficiently vigorous, or that they
have been too soon relinquished. Let us then begin the
business in good earnest -and when once united, we
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 25
can with a surety of success, apply the proper remedy
for existing evils. We have a rallying point -we have
a society comprising upwards of two hundred members,
with a fund exceeding $1,000 -with such a beginning
as this, how easily can we accomplish the desired object.
But besides this, there is the Trades Union, of which
the United Beneficial Society of Journeymen Cord-
wainers is a member, and the first one too -and shall
it be said that we, the Journeymen Cordwainers, can
lend our aid to raise up such a glorious Institution, and
cannot help ourselves? Shall we entail the wretched
state we are in, on our posterity? Are we willing to have
our memories desecrated for not lending a helping hand
to better the condition of mechanics? Other mechanics
are awake to their interests: already are Trade's Unions
formed in New York, Boston, Albany, Newark, Balti-
more, and Washington, and nearly all the towns of the
North and East. Nor is Philadelphia behind her
neighbors; twenty-two societies are already in the Un-
ion, with a certain prospect of several others.
We alone, of all the prominent trades, are slumber-
ing at our posts -true we are in the Union, but if we
lack numbers to carry our points, of what advantage
can the Union be to us?
We would conjure you by all the ties of our common
kindred to unite with us in one effort to renovate our
trade. We would entreat you no longer to neglect your
business as a thing unworthy your attention - the inter-
ests of your trade gone -all is gone -and your condi-
tion will be little if any, better than the serfs of Europe.
Already has grasping avarice and monopoly shorn us
of many of our rights; already has aristocracy reared
its hideous form in our country, and is making rapid
strides towards enslaving us for ever.
The Declaration of Independence "holds these truths
26 AMERI CAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
to be self-evident, that all men are created free and
equal," how can we be free while we have no controul
over the price of the only commodity we have to dis-
pose of - our labor? How can we be equal when we are
the slaves of heartless monopolists? Call it what you
will fellow-craftsmen, our condition is a species of
slavery. True, we assemble on the 4th of July and
mingle our shouts of approbation as we hear the invalu-
able Declaration of Independence read -we may join
the multitude in paying fulsome adulation to some pop-
ular orator, as he discants on the many blessings we
enjoy in the land of Liberty, and flatter ourselves for
the time, that what he says is true, that we do enjoy
to the fullest extent, the liberties the blood of our revo-
lutionary fathers bequeathed to us: but, when we leave
the festive board, and return to our humble homes;
when the thrilling accents of eloquence have ceased to
vibrate on the ear, and sober reason resumes her sway-
then, fellow-mechanics, do we awake to the sad reality
of our condition -then, is the flimsy veil which blinded
us to our true interest, drawn aside, and we behold our-
selves in our real characters, humble, dependent and
miserable -we behold ourselves, perhaps, the slave of
some haughty tyrant, who to augment his already over-
flowing cofifers, is perhaps at that very moment, framing
some pretext for reducing our scanty wages; and se-
cretly rejoicing, that the dollar we have spent on our
country's natal day, enables him the better to accom-
plish his object.
Let us then set about making ourselves free indeed -
before we boast of our freedom -let us take measures
to enjoy, and secure that freedom after it is obtained.
To accomplish this object, trade societies are the first
and best means -they will make us acquainted with
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 27
our own interest- and with one another -they will
bring the grievances of each member to a general focus -
and we can there determine the mode of redressing
them. Trades' Unions are the next means, and will
prove the bulwarks of our rights and privileges - there,
the strength of all the societies are brought to bear
against any object of oppression -and what power can
resist such a tower of strength: with such means as
those at hand, we can easily remedy all the evils of
which we complain : if we fail to use them, or use them
to our prejudice, the fault be ours, the cause is, in all
events worthy of our best efiforts. By these means our
interests will be supported -liberal employers will be
supported- the rapacious will be checked in their evil
courses -and the blessings of our glorious free institu-
tions, fully realized by the worthy mechanic,
april 4 it
(b) THE ATTITUDE OF THE EMPLOYERS
Pennsylvanian, June 15, 1835, p. 2, col. 7.
Shortly before this time a meeting of the journeymen had been held
at which it was announced that the society had received three
hundred new members since the beginning of the strike. And on
June 22, the joume)Tnen stated that "upwards of 140 emplo3^ers"
had acceded to their demands.
At a large adjourned meeting of the ladies shoe
dealers and manufacturers of the city and county of
Philadelphia held at the Military Hall on the nth
instant, Nathan Hall in the chair, M. Grier, jr. was
appointed secretary.
The following preamble and resolutions were pre-
sented by a committee appointed at a previous meeting
and unanimously adopted.
Whereas, the laboring portion of this community
have made a general strike for what they consider their
2 8 Ai VIERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
just rights, knowing, that if they were longer to permit
the growing encroachments of capital upon labor, they
would soon be unable to make any resistance; and
whereas, the journeymen cordwainers of the ladies
branch participating in the general desire of bettering
the condition of mechanics, have struck for an advance
of wages; and being fully satisfied that their demands
are just and equitable, they being forced thereto by the
enhancement in price of every article, either of comfort
or convenience, we feel a desire to aid and encourage
them in their efifort to obtain an adequate compen-
sation for their labor- and whereas, to enable the em-
ployers to sustain the rightful demands of the journey-
men, and at the same to secure to themselves a proper
remuneration for their services, it is necessary for them
to increase the price of the work by them made, believ-
ing, that if any loss is to be sustained, those who con-
sume the products of labor ought at least to bear their
proportion. With a view to efifect these desirable ob-
jects, and for the purpose of establishing the trade on
a firm, equitable and permanent basis, through the
means of a co-operation with the journeymen- be it
therefore
Resolved, that we consider the demands of the jour-
neymen such as are dictated by the price of living, rents,
&c. And knowing that the pittance hitherto earned by
them is entirely insufficient for their support, we do
hereby agree to comply with their demands generally,
and pledge ourselves to do all in our power to support
and sustain them.
Resolved, that the price hitherto received for ladies
shoes is not sufficient to remunerate those engaged in
their manufacture, much less to. afford an advance of
wages to the journeymen. And we believe that the sys-
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 29
tern of ruinous competition now pursued, "is more hon-
ored in the breach than in the observance."
And believing also that a trifling advance in the price
of shoes would scarcely be felt by general society, while
it would give us the means of rewarding liberally, the
journeymen for their labor, and at the same time afford
a living to all engaged in the business. And to produce
these desirable objects, we will agree to be governed
hereafter by a list of prices for our work, which will
render our business uniform and permanent.
Resolved, that we will form ourselves into an asso-
ciation for the purpose of giving regularity and stabili-
ty to our present efforts -and that a committee of ten be
appointed to confer with the journeymen, with a view
to the furtherance of these objects.
Resolved, that the proceedings of this meeting be
published in all the daily papers. . .
(c) THE PRESSURE OF COMPETITION
Pennsylvanian, June 20, 1835, P- 2, col. 7.
Preamble and resolutions adopted at a meeting of the Ladies' Cord-
wainers' Society, June 18, 1835.
. . . Whereas, the Journeymen Cordwainers of
the city and county of Philadelphia, on the ladies
branch, in their late strike for higher wages being im-
pressed that they have not sought more than justice
demands, or than an impartial public would be will-
ing to allow; for it is a well known fact that they have
to toil more hours (and even with their advance of
wages, their pecuniary remuneration is still much less)
than any other class of working men; and
Whereas, there are many employers of this city, who
have made off of the labor of journeymen a liberal for-
tune, and now refuse to accede to the justice of our de-
30 AM ERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
mands, and in order to evade the same they are prepar-
ing materials (in this city) in order to send them into
the towns of the Eastern States (where living and labor
are cheaper, and workmanship not so good) to get the
same made into shoes, then to be brought here and sold
for Philadelphia manufacture, thereby imposing on
the community at large, and entailing ruin on one of the
most extensive trades of our fair city; a trade that at a
moderate computation employs fifteen hundred men in
the manufacture alone, independent of those immediate-
ly connected with it, such as leather dressers, &c. and
Whereas, there are many employers who allow (and
are willing to accede to) the justice of our demands,
provided they are assisted by a just public; therefore,
in order to prevent the ruin and to keep one of the
most extensive trades in our city, we do hereby
Resolve, that in the name of our society we will
publish in newspapers of most circulation in this city,
and the cities and towns of the Southern and Western
States, the names of those employers who keep ware
houses here and have work manufactured in the Eastern
States.
Resolved, that we will publish in circulars and the
newspapers of this city, the names and residences of
those employers who do, and the names and residences
of those who do not accede to the justice of our demands.
Resolved, that the preamble and resolutions herein
contained, be signed by the President and Secretary of
this society and published in at least four daily papers
of this city. JOHN CanEY, President
Jno. F. Read, Secretary.
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 31
(d) THE CORDWAINERS STAND BY THE TRADES'
UNION
Pennsylvanian, March 4, 1836, p. 2, col. 7.
Resolutions passed at a special meeting of the United Beneficial Society
of Journeymen Cordwainers, March 2, 1836.
We, the Journeymen Cordwainers of the Men's
Branch, determined never to yield up the right we now
possess, of placing upon our own time and labor such
price as to us may seem just and equitable; and deter-
mined also to give all the aid in our power, through the
Trades' Union, to the Journeymen Bookbinders, Cotton
Spinners, &c., from whom this valuable right is attempt-
ed to be wrested by a combination of tyrannical employ-
ers and wealthy capitalists, do solemnly and firmly
Resolve, that we will stand to the Trades' Union as
the last hope of the mechanic and laborer, knowing that
if the aristocracy could sever the link which now binds
us together, every trade society would be attacked, and
would sink in its turn before the corrupting influence of
wealth and avarice.
Resolved, that we earnestly conjure those members of
the Trades' Union who are now the victims of unright-
eous extortion, to stand firm in the holy cause of human
rights, assuring them that their days of tribulation are
nearly at an end, and that retributive justice shall surely
visit their oppressors.
Resolved, that with a view to lend a helping hand in
these days of trial, each member of this Society contrib-
ute immediately the sum of fifty cents (making nearly
$400) and that a further contribution of 12^ cents per
week, for four weeks, be collected from each member,
and that after that time 12 cents per month for each
member of this Society be paid to the Trades' Union,
10 cents of which to go into the regular funds of the
32 AMERICAN INDUS TRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Union, and the remaining two cents to be applied to the
Commissioners' Fund, as recommended by the Nation-
al Trades' Union, for the purpose of establishingTrades'
Unions and Trade Societies throughout this State- and
each member shall be required to pay an additional 6^4
cents per month into the funds of this Society.
Resolved, that the Delegates to the Trades' Union
constitute a Committee to superintend the disburse-
ment of the funds hereby provided -to the end, that if
the money be not required, the same may be safely re-
turned to the Society, or any unappropriated portion
thereof.
On motion, it was resolved, that four hundred dollars
be appropriated from the funds of this Society, in antic-
ipation of the collection from the members, to meet
present emergencies -one half of which to be paid to
the Trades' Union at its special meeting on Saturday
evening next, and the balance to be disposed of accord-
ing to the fourth resolution. . .
James Ryan, President.
(e) THE EMPLOYERS OPPOSE THE UNION
Pennsylvanian, March 28, 1836, p. 2, col. 4.
Preamble and resolutions adopted at a meeting of "the employers on
the Ladies Branch of Boot and Shoemaking business" on March
23, 1836.
Whereas, the Employers engaged in the Ladies'
branch of Boot and Shoe business, in the city and county
of Philadelphia have arrived at a crisis in which we
deem it expedient to form ourselves into an Association,
and make known to an impartial community our griev-
ances and future determinations. As the time has ar-
rived when it becomes necessary that we, as Employers,
in our department of business, should with manly firm-
ness and united exertions, call upon our fellow citizens,
the Employers in the different Trades, for an expression
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 33
of sentiment in relation to the late measures of the
Trades' Union, and of the several Trade Societies in re-
lation thereto.
It is a lamentable fact that we no longer feel any con-
fidence in carrying on our business, which arises from
the frequent turn-outs of our Journeymen, for an ad-
vance of wages and other measures. This they do not
hesitate to do, in rapid succession, regardless of the
consequences which may follow to our business.
We acknowledge with much regret, that we are un-
able, under such a state of things, to determine upon any
fixed price or value of our goods. Therefore we cannot
take orders from our customers as heretofore, not know-
ing how soon we may be called upon to accede to a new
list of wages, or other measures equally detrimental.
These lists of prices are so arranged prospectively, as
to keep up a fund not only for their own Society, but
also that of the Trades' Union. The most ostensible
object of both being to coerce Employers into their
measure, and thus impose upon the community a bur-
den for the purpose of enabling themselves to live upon
a fund thus created during the several Turn-outs or
Strikes. And we are moreover unwilling to submit to
such a state of things, fostering oppression, tyranny and
misrule, and thus obstructing the free course of trade.
Heretofore we have not been masters of our business,
but have been compelled to comply with the most arbi-
trary measures of the men in our employ, aided on and
encouraged by the Trades' Union. The mode of doing
business has been prescribed by them, and if objected
to by the Employer his shop was struck against; and as
a punishment for disobedience, no Journeyman permit-
ted to work for him until he made acknowledgments to
the Society, and complied with their requisitions.
It is also an article of their by-laws, that no Journey-
34 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol. I
man is permitted to instruct an apprentice belonging to
an Employer, until after he enters in the last six months
of his time, under a penalty of twenty dollars. They
not only require a sufficiency from their Employers to
support themselves and the friends of their own so-
ciety, but also to meet the demands made on them by
other societies, during a turn out for wages. Therefore
1. Resolved, that the wages paid to the Journeymen
previous to the present turn out, was a sufficient com-
pensation for their labor, and as the present list of wages,
adopted on the 21st inst., is an unjust demand-that the
Employers will not accede to it under any considera-
tions.
2. Resolved, that we are determined not to submit
to the coercive measures adopted by the Journeymen,
(and Binders) that while we are willing to pay a fair
compensation for labor to both, we declare ourselves
free and independent to act for ourselves.
3. Resolved, that in the present state of our business
affairs, that we will act with unanimity and good faith
towards each other.
4. Resolved, that we do not recognize the right of
workmen to levy a list of wages upon us, ostensibly for
the support of the Fund of the Trades Union, nor for
the funds of any individual Trades Society.
5. Resolved, that we will no longer be made the
submissive agents to carry out the purposes and designs
of such regulations.
6. Resolved, that we will take all fair and lawful
means to oppose the same.
7. Resolved, that the Journeymen's measures now in
operation are most obnoxious, coercive and detrimental
to the peace, prosperity, and best interests of the com-
munity.
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 35
8. Resolved, that we highly approve of the firm
and decided stand taken by the master carpenters, and
that Israel Robinson, John Follansbie, Nathan Kimball,
Joseph Weeks and Joseph Chew, be a delegation to
confer with them.
9. Resolved, that we cordially invite the employers
on the men's branch, to form a Society forthwith, to
unite with us in maintaining our rights as good and free
citizens, and to oppose every injurious combination,
connected with the Trades' Union.
10. Resolved, that we also invite the employers of
both branches in New York, Newark, Baltimore, Bur-
lington, and the neighboring towns and manufacturing
districts, to call similar meetings, and to confer with
and sustain us in our exertions for Liberty and the free
course of trade.
11. Resolved, that we cordially invite the employers
in the diflferent branches of the mechanic arts to hold
meetings expressive of their views in relation to the op-
pressive operations and proceedings of the Trades' Un-
ion, and such other matter as they shall deem expedient
for their future welfare.
12. Resolved, that J. W. McCurdy, Nathan Kim-
ball, and B. C. Duplane, be a committee to correspond
with the employers in the city of New York, Balti-
more, Newark, Burlington, and the neighboring towns
and manufacturing districts.
13. Resolved, that we deem it expedient, in order
to carry our object into effect, to call on the different
societies of employers to appoint delegates to hold a gen-
eral convention at such time and place as may be here-
after determined. [Eighty-two signatures omitted.]
36
AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
(f) THE ADVANCE IN WAGES AND PRICES
Pennsylvanlan, April i8, 1836, p. 2, col. 6, 7.
Preamble and resolutions adopted at a meeting of the journeymen cord-
wainers (ladies branch), April 13, 1836.
Whereas, it has come to our knowledge that the pub-
lic mind has been abused to a dangerous extent, in re-
gard to the amount of the advance of wages asked by
our Society above that which we received previous to
the present turn out, and also as to the average amount
of money which a journeyman can weekly earn, we
therefore deem it incumbent on us, in justice to the
public, to lay before them a brief, but candid state-
ment as to our demands of the employers; and also as
to what we consider due to us from our employers, as
fellow men.
We think that we are rendering justice to the public,
as well as to ourselves, when we mention the fact, that
whenever we have asked of our employers an advance
of wages, they have universally demanded of the public
an average advance of about three times as much as
they have given to us: thus, at the strike of 1835, our
average advance was about 5 cents; at which our em-
ployers made an average raise in the price of their shoes
of 1 8)4 cents; and they have ever attempted to justify
this extortion, by telling their customers that they were
compelled to act thus, in consequence of the exorbitant
demands of the journeymen. The employers, in the
publication of their proceedings, have represented the
advance we now ask as extravagant and unreasonable;
in reply to that, we can positively assure the public, that
the average advance we now ask, is but 5% cents on a
pair: now, allowing a journeyman to make 12 pair of
shoes per week, which are enough for any man to make,
and which he will barely average, the advance we now
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 37
ask will make an increase in his week's wages of but
little over 60 cents; and the most superficial observer
will perceive that this increase in his weekly income
can in no wise meet the enormous advance in the price
of provision, house rent and other necessaries. We shall
now speak of the average amount which a journeyman
can weekly earn at the wages we are now asking, allow-
ing him to work from 10 to 12 hours per day, the aver-
age wages per pair, taking all kinds of shoes collective-
ly, would be 47 cents; now allowing a journeyman to
make 12 pair of shoes per week, which is a liberal al-
lowance, his weekly income would amount to only $5.64.
We would ask any reasonable person if such a sum is
enough to enable a man to meet all demands, and to
afiford him a comfortable subsistence?
We have frequently heard it remarked, by persons
possessing more self interest than feeling, that a labour-
ing man with a family can live comfortably on five
dollars per week -we willingly admit that five dollars
per week will furnish a small family with provisions,
&c. but when the labourer goes to pay his house-rent, the
tailor, and doctor's bill, he will find his treasury minus.
Again, taking a journeyman's weekly wages to average
the sum above stated ($5.64) his annual income will
amount to the scanty portion $293.28. Now deducting
20 dollars which it must cost him for shoe-findings,
tools and implements indispensable in the prosecution
of his trade, deducting also what it will generally re-
quire for medical expenses, and the residue instead of
being sufficient to procure for him and his family a
moiety of life's necessaries and comforts, will render
their circumstances as bare as the leafless trees of win-
ter! It will be recollected that the employers in the
publication of their proceedings, have accused us of
38 AME RICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
frequently demanding an advance of wages without
giving them the slightest notice thereof; this assertion
it will be remembered was thoroughly rebutted by us
in a recent statement to the public. But even if the rep-
resentations of the employers were true- on what just
grounds can they complain when they invariably as-
sume authority to reduce our wages without a moment's
warning, and that too in the most severe and inclement
seasons! Our oppressors may be elated with the vain
hope that they can undermine us and bring us to sub-
mission by the introduction of French and eastern shoes
and the circulation of misrepresentations. But, we are
unanimously
Resolved, that we will never as heretofore remain the
impoverished dupes of the importers of French shoes
and the retailers of slander and foul goods.
Resolved, that we are determined to expose every
fraud practised on the public by the artifices of the em-
ployers in their course of trade and speculation.
Resolved, that we will never put on our aprons or
return to our vocation until we receive our just de-
mands, being well assured of competent support from
the labourers' inexhaustible and moral bank, the Trades'
Union.
Resolved, that we tender our warmest thanks to our
brothers of the "Men's Branch," for their noble and
generous co-operation in our present stand out. . .
John Caney, Pres'nt-jNO. F. Read, Secretary.
4- THE TEN-HOUR STRIKES OF 1835
(a) INFLUENCE OF THE BOSTON CIRCULAR
The Man (New York), June 29, 1835, p. i, col. i, 2.
Letter from John Ferral, or Farrell, as the name was sometimes
spelled, who was elected in the following October, president of the
National Trades' Union, to Seth Luther of Boston.
Schuykill Falls, 6th mo. 22d., Ind. 49.
Brother- Circumstances which I could not com-
mand, have prevented me, until the present time, from
answering yours of nth inst., and even now, part of
the information you desire must be deferred until a
more fitting opportunity can be had by me of acquir-
ing the knowledge you seek. You write that "the gov-
ernment of Philadelphia have placed themselves on
an exalted eminence, by adopting the ten hour system,"
and that, ''from the dates of events, I had the vanity to
suppose, that our circular, which you were so kind as
to have reprinted, was the more immediate cause of
the recent movements in Philadelphia. There is not
any vanity in the supposition. It is an incontrovertible
truth, that the movements of the useful classes here, are
mainly to be attributed, to the Circular. For some days
previous to the receipt of that invaluable document, I
had seen in the daily papers, advertisements for hands
wanted in Boston, wages from $2 to $2.50 per day,
hours of labor from sunrise to sunset. The specifica-
tion of the time allotted for a day's work excited in me
a suspicion of treachery. The memorable and infamous
ukase of the merchants of Boston, July 20th, 1832, for-
cibly presented itself in all its deformity, and an intense
anxiety respecting the workies of Boston, was the result.
40 AME RICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Think what my feelings, then, were, when I received
your Circular, when all my doubts, fears, and suspic-
ions were confirmed, and the duplicity of all the party
presses of Philadelphia thus made manifest. Still I
hoped, that when the baseness of these minions of aris-
tocracy, who were and are incessantly prosing about
"democracy," "whiggery," "party usages," "party
principles," etc., would now be shown, in their sup-
pression of the circumstances of the strike in Boston,
and their treacherous insertion of the advertisements to
mislead the mechanics of Philadelphia; that it must
pluck the veil from off the eyes of the industrious por-
tion of community, and give them a full view of the
tricks of these traders in politics, I have not been de-
ceived. From that until the present time, the workies
have nobly done their duty by keeping aloof from party
trickery, and maintaining their own principles with a
firmness of purpose that indicates their intention of
thinking and acting for themselves hereafter. Upon the
receipt of your Circular, I called upon Wm. English,
Secretary of the N.T. Union, and took counsel with him
how to proceed. A reprint was decided upon as the
best antidote for the poison already infused by the daily
presses, and in less than twenty-four hours the dissemi-
nation of the reprint commenced, and was continued
for several days: up to the tops of the highest houses
and into the cellars thereof it speeded its way. The
efifect was electric; the Circular became the absorbing
topic of conversation. Fortunately, at this crisis, the
Cordwainers of the Ladies' Branch struck for wages;
the Handloom Weavers had already declared their
intentions, and the Laborers on the wharves of Schuyl-
kill, were out on strike several days previous. The
Cordwainers, with that sympathy of feeling, which per-
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 41
vades all intelligent working men, marched out to meet
the laborers. Addresses were then delivered, calling
upon all day workmen to strike for the hours; and nobly
the call was responded to. Bricklayers, plasterers, house
carpenters, stone masons, laborers, &c., vied with each
other in this generous rivalry of action; one motive
seemed to pervade the mass; they had read and imbibed
a portion of the pure spirit of the Boston Circular,
and resolving to abide the issue of the trial, they re-
echoed the appeal where it says, "We claim by the blood
of our fathers, shed on the battle fields in the war of the
revolution, the rights of American freemen, and no
earthly power shall resist our claims with impunity,"
and they adopted its injunction to the mechanics of
Boston, "stand firm, be true to yourselves. Now is the
time to enroll your names on the scroll of history, as
the undaunted enemies of oppression, as the enemies of
mental, moral, and physical degradation, as the friends
of the human race." The mechanics of Philadelphia
stood firm and true ; they conquered, because they were
united and resolute in their actions. Those presses
which could not retard the progress of public opinion,
nor divert it from its just objects, viz. the adoption of
the ten hour system for a day, and a correspondent ad-
vance of wages for piece workers, now proclaim the
triumph of our bloodless revolution; each day adds to
our number and strength to our cause, and adds also to
the moral as well as physical power of the Trades'
Union.
The recognition and adoption of the ten hour system
by the public servants of Philadelphia city and county,
could not with safety have been longer deferred; each
day added thousands to our ranks. We marched to the
public works, and the workmen joined in with us;
42 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
when the procession passed, employment ceased, busi-
ness was at a stand still, shirt sleeves were rolled up,
aprons on, working tools in hand were the orders of
the day. Had the cannon of an invading enemy belched
forth its challenge on our soil, the freemen of Phila-
delphia could not have shown a greater ardor for the
contest; the blood-sucking aristocracy, they alone stood
aghast; terror stricken, they thought the day of retribu-
tion was come, but no vengeance was sought or in-
flicted by the people for the wrongs they had suffered
from their enemies. The harmonious and almost sim-
ultaneous action of the great body of the useful classes
in this great and glorious cause, produced an effect on
public opinion, which removed every obstruction pre-
sented in the outset by the foes of human happiness;
and the public authorities, with that tact which evinces
knowledge of the human heart, chimed in with the pop-
ular feeling; they displayed on this occasion a discrim-
inating judgment of the time when to comply, the man-
ner and matter of which places them in the estimation
of the working men, not as the foes of human rights,
but as the friends of good order and public justice.
The office holders and office seekers of all parties have
tried to lure us into the meshes of their nets, but experi-
ence came to our aid, and, coy as the young deer, we
shied off from their advances; we felt grateful for their
proffered aid, but told them "we knew our own rights,
and knowing, dared maintain them." The battle was
already ours; ere they came forth, we had fought and
conquered, without other aid than the justice of our
cause; our weapons were reason and truth, which soon-
er or later must triumph wherever they are wielded.
By the papers I send, you will see how steadily we
proceed onward. Our brave seamen, too, have done
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 43
their duty, as they always did before. The female
laborers are about forming societies to protect them-
selves from the rude grasp of avarice; even the op-
pressed females, and children employed in cotton mills
in Manayunk, (those brutalizing emporiums of human
misery,) have caught the spark of freedom's fire, and
are now on strike for the hours. ''Your glorious work
goes nobly on." The voice from Julien Hall has not
passed us by unheeded. The Trades' Union have re-
solved to celebrate our nation's anniversary; an oration
will be delivered by a hard-handed mechanic, that we
may keep clear of party and profession. Then, when
our hearts beat high in remembrance of the deeds of
other men and other times, when we feel that we too
have participated in causing a moral revolution, which,
if carried out, must be productive of happiness to the
whole of the community; then will our voices be heard
in grateful praise of our brethren in Boston; then will
our heartfelt thanks be poured forth to A. Wood, Seth
Luther, and Levi Abell, for the Circular of the house
carpenters, masons, and stone cutters of Boston, that life
inspiring composition, which called forth the energies
of the working men of Philadelphia, and knit them to-
gether in brotherly feelings, by which they attained
their just object. That this spirit of union may spread
abroad, and speed over the whole earth, until all men
join in the promotion and attainment of happiness, is
the wish and hope of your brother working man.
John Ferral.
44 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
(b) A MEETING OF CITIZENS
Pcnnsylvanian, June 9, 1835, p. 2, col. 6.
Of the persons whose names appear in connection with this meeting
six were merchants, five lawyers, four doctors, two politicians,
at least one an employer, and three wage earners. The occupa-
tions of six are not known.
One of the largest meetings ever convened in the city
or county of Philadelphia, assembled on Saturday after-
noon, the 6th inst., in the State House Yard.
The meeting was organized by appointing General
Peter Fritz, President] Dr. L. D. Bodder, Israel Young,
William Ruff, Thomas Weaver, George Smith, Peter
Wager, Michael W. Ash, Benjamin S. Bonsall, John
F. Stump, Dr. Heintzelman, Dr. Spackman, John
Struthers, John Dennis, William Stevens, John P.
Binns, William English and Benj. B. Boyce, Vice Pres-
idents \ and the following gentlemen as Secretaries:
Wm. Vogdes, Chas. K. Servoss, Vincent L. Bradford,
Jos. Gatchel, Jr., John D. Miles, Byerly G. Cox, Dr.
Bunting, Chas. D. Lybrand and Dr. A. C. Draper.
The object of the meeting having been stated from the
Chair, it was, upon motion of Mr. Gatchell, resolved,
that a committee of five be appointed to draft a pre-
amble and resolutions, expressive of the sense of the
meeting. Whereupon the following gentlemen were
selected as the committee: Dr. A. C. Draper, George
Smith, Wm. English, Saml. Dubois and John D. Miles.
After having retired for some time, the committee,
through their chairman, reported the following, which
were adopted by enthusiastic acclamation.
Whereas, the citizens of the city and county of Phil-
adelphia, have assembled in town meeting, to express
their opinion of the recent movements of the working-
men and mechanics; and whereas, this meeting is sat-
isfied that the working classes are the bone and sinew
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 45
of the land; and whereas, upon their health, virtue and
happiness depend the security and perpetuity of our
glorious and free institutions, and whereas, it is the duty
of every man possessing the ordinary attribute of hu-
manity, to zealously assist in advancing the social com-
forts and increasing the moral, physical and intellec-
tual enjoyments of man; and whereas under the former
system adopted by employers, it has been found that the
demands made upon the system of the employed, is
incompatible with either physical comfort, moral im-
provement or social happiness; and whereas we are sat-
isfied that ten hours labor out of the twenty-four, is as
much as the system can endure, and at the same time
preserve health, and whereas the ten hour system will
aflford some leisure for the cultivation of the mind, and
the pleasures of domestic relationship.
Therefore be it resolved, that we heartily and unan-
imously respond to the demands of the laboring classes
in favor of ten hours. Resolved, that ten hours labor
is amply sufficient for any reasonable purpose, and that
all those who require more time from the laboring man,
are devoid of the noble principles of humanity, and the
mild and charitable virtues of Christianity.
And whereas, it has been represented that those
tradesmen, who have been ground down to a paltry
pittance for their labor, and who are now soliciting an
increase of wages, whereby they may be enabled to pay
their rents, clothe and feed their families, and educate
their children.
Therefore resolved, that we highly approve of the
proceedings of the journeymen tradesmen, in various
branches, who demand a fair and equitable compensa-
tion for their labor.
And whereas in the female branches of sewing, mak-
46 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ing clothes, &c., there is much privation, want and suf-
fering, in consequence of the lowness of the prices
which they receive for their daily toil, therefore re-
solved, that we highly disapprove of the speculation
which is carried on upon their virtuous and honest
labor. Resolved, that the ladies of Philadelphia be
recommended to adopt such measures as may secure
to their sisters in humanity, a fair compensation for
their industry. Resolved, that we recommend to the
journeymen mechanics, to religiously abstain from en-
gaging to labor by the hour, or continuing their labor
under any circumstances, beyond the term of ten hours
out of the twenty-four.
The following resolutions, offered by Mr. J. Ferral,
were also adopted: resolved, that this meeting fully
approve of the conduct of the laborers on the Schuylkill
coal wharves, and recommend them to persevere in their
just efforts until they attain the object of their strike.
Resolved, that the humane conduct of Jacob Serrill,
coal merchant. Spruce st. wharf, in acceding to the just
demands of the laborers in his employment, entitles
him to the patronage of all good citizens. Resolved,
that we hereby recommend to the citizens of Philadel-
phia not to purchase coal of any merchant who coerces
his laborers to work more than ten hours a day.
The meeting was addressed by the following gentle-
men: William Thompson, John Farrell, Samuel F.
Reed, Mr. Martin, William English, Wm. Ruff, and
several others. . .
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 47
(c) A HOSTILE ACCOUNT OF THE RESULTS
Boston Courier, Sept. 27, 1836. Quoted from the Philadelphia Gazette.
The New-York Journal of Commerce intimates that
the "ten hour system" is beginning to find favor in that
city with the mechanics; and notices the fact with some
judicious observations. It may, perhaps be serviceable
to the Journal, to know that the system has worked in
Philadelphia, where it has been in operation for about
a year; and as we have been at the pains of seeking in-
formation on this subject from some employing me-
chanics, and others whose pursuits enable them to see its
operation, we will state the result of some recent in-
quiries.
Formerly, the building mechanics were in the habit
of working from sunrise to sunset, as all our farmers and
agricultural laborers do, embracing in the long days of
the year, from twelve to thirteen hours, the average of
which was twelve. The argument they used in favor
of the ten hour system was, that two hours additional
labor in the day, would give them so much vigor and
activity, that they would be able to do in ten hours as
much work as they used to do in twelve; so that the
employers and the public would be no losers by the
change. This was the theory, and now for the practice
under it. We have been assured by master-builders,
that so far from a journeyman's now doing in ten hours
what he before used to do in twelve, he does not even
do as much as he used to do in nine. This falling off
is ascribed to the idle and careless habits acquired by
some from sitting up late at night in dissipation, and
lying in bed late in consequence thereof, and to the nat-
ural indisposition of the rest to work harder than their
neighbors. The result of this falling off, has been, that
the cost of building, (owing to wages for nine hours'
48 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
work being kept up at the same price that used to be
paid for twelve,) has been greatly augmented, inso-
much that not more than two thirds as many houses
have been built, as would have been built under the
old system. Rents have consequently been very much
increased, to the great benefit of landlords, and injury
of tenants, and the community considered as one large
family, have been positively losers to the whole amount
of the value of the labor which was prevented from be-
ing put into activity, by the ten hour system!
Such has been the effect upon the public; but have
the mechanics themselves gained by the change? So far
from it, they have been great losers. The adoption of
the ten hour system with the builders, which was in fact
only another mode of turning out for higher wages, led
to a general turn out among most other classes of work-
ing-men, the result of which was a general increase of
wages. The consequence of this has been, a rise in the
price of every article necessary for the comfort of fam-
ilies. Rents have risen, coal and wood have risen; so
have hats, shoes, clothes, furniture, utensils, and every
species of city labor dependent for its support upon the
the general expenses of living. But this is not the worst
of it. Provisions of almost every kind, meats, poultry,
and vegetables, are from twenty-five to fifty per cent
higher than they were a year ago; and although this
rise in prices, may, in part, be ascribed to other causes,
yet it is clear to all who know how to reason from
cause to efifect, that a considerable portion of it is the
result of the high prices of the things, which farmers
buy in the city, and which act upon agriculture and
increase the expenses of producing grain, stock, and
vegetables. To meet these increased expenses, brought
on by their own acts, the working-men have no new re-
sources.
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 49
The ten hour men, who had no increase of wages,
have plenty of leisure on hand to dispose of, but it is
not a saleable commodity. The rest who turned out
for, and obtained a rise of wages of twenty to twenty-
five per cent, have found that this increase of income
is more than swept away by the rise in rent, fuel, and
subsistence; and if there be taken into the account, the
number of days' work which some of them lose from
the want of employment, it will be found that they are
losers in two ways, while they are gainers in but one.
At the period of the turn outs, this Gazette was fore-
most in its warnings against the extension of the sys-
tem. We foresaw the results then as plainly as we see
them now ; and had we been prophets, we could not have
predicted them more exactly than they have come to
pass. So great however, is the blindness of many on this
subject, that the present hardness of the times will be
ascribed to any but the true causes ; and we should not
be surprised if fresh movements should be resorted to
in the way of turn-outs, to restore the equilibrium, in
which event the condition of all classes, except owners of
houses, would be rendered worse.
5- THE HOUSE CARPENTERS' STRIKE, 1836
(a) THE MASTER CARPENTERS ATTACK THE
TRADES' UNION
Pennsylvanian, March 17, 1836, p. 2, col. 5, 6.
Preamble and resolutions adopted at a meeting of master carpenters,
March 14, 1836. The journeymen had met the preceding November
and resolved to demand $1.50 per day from March 20 to November
20, and $1.25 per day for the remainder of the j'car. This meet-
ing is reported in the Pennsylvanian, March 21, 1836.
Whereas it is the mutual interest of the employer and
the employed, that good feeling, friendship and con-
fidence should exist between them, and whereas a com-
bination of Journeymen Mechanics has been formed,
under the name of the Trades' Union, arbitrary in its
measures, mischievous in its effects, subversive of the
confidence and good feeling that formerly existed, and
equally calculated to destroy the independence of both
the master workmen and journeymen in their contracts
and private relations, we, the Master Carpenters, of
the City and County of Philadelphia, in self defence,
deem it expedient to make known the grievances we
labor under, and to take such measures as may, in some
degree, remedy the evil. Under the existing state of
things, no master workman can make a contract with
any safety or security, that he will be able to fulfill his
engagements, while his operations are under the control
of a combination of men, who at a moment's notice may
alter the established wages, the hours for working, and
even prescribe to him what hands he shall employ, and
he must accede to the most arbitrary measures, at the
risk of his work standing still.
The Trades' Union is composed of Journeymen in
PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 51
every branch of Mechanics. Each member contributes
weekly or monthly a portion of his earnings, to carry
into effect the objects of the Institution. Some branch-
es of Mechanics have some supposed grievances to com-
plain of, and in secret conclave it is settled how and
when it shall be remedied. The time selected is when
their employers have large contracts on hand ; a demand
is made and if not promptly acceded to, no matter how
unreasonable, the malcontents strike, throw down their
tools, and quit their work, thus subjecting their employ-
ers to a breach of their contract and loss of time. Should
the master workmen resist being coerced into the mea-
sure, and the Journeymen in that branch are thrown out
of employ, they are supported from the Funds of the
Society until the difficulty be reconciled.
It should be remembered and remarked that two
branches seldom strike at the same time, by which course
of policy the general fund is not too heavily taxed, and
the other branches having employment can contribute
to it. The evil does not rest here, in order to ensure
the growth and continuance of the combination, it is
arrogantly required, that no master workman shall em-
ploy any Journeyman who is not a member of the
Trades Union, and if he has the hardihood to disregard
this arbitrary requisition, they leave their work at a
moment's notice, in defiance of the consequences; they
also exact that he shall not have more than one appren-
tice to a stipulated number of journeymen, thus in a
most daring and unwarrantable manner presuming to
regulate and controul the private concerns of private
citizens.
When the Strike was made last year for the Ten Hour
System, it was understood they would ask no more, pro-
vided their employers acceded to the measure, and that
52 AMERI CAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
they would perform as much work as they did before,
but so far from fulfilling their promises, they performed
more in eight hours when they worked all day, than
they did in their ten hours under the ten hour system.
This object was no sooner gained, than an Increase of
wages was threatened and partially demanded, which,
with the ten hour system, will make a difference of at
least twenty per cent to their employers.
Combinations of this description are indebted for their
origin to the discontented and disorganizers in a mon-
archical government; they are not of American birth;
they are arbitrary and oppressive in their operations,
subversive of all regularity in business, and destructive
of confidence in the parties concerned ; it is the mother
of countless evils, and the source of no good. They have
been discountenanced in Europe, their birth place;
but how they have ventured to raise their heads to
breathe and exist in a republican atmosphere, is indeed
wonderful.
Such being the evils imposed upon us, we, the Master
Carpenters of the city and county of Philadelphia, find
ourselves compelled in self-defence to form an Associa-
tion for the purpose of putting down the combination
called the Trades Union, and cordially invite the other
branches to assist in the undertaking. Therefore,
Resolved, that the Trades' Union is arbitrary, un-
just and mischievous in its operation, inasmuch as it
forcibly compels the well disposed journeymen to be-
come members, as there is a By Law of this Associa-
tion prohibiting all members from working at the same
building or in the same shop with any journeyman who
is not a member, thus compelling him to join the Asso-
ciation and contribute weekly his earnings for the sup-
port of the idle and discontented, or he will be thrown
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 53
out of work himself as his employer will be compelled
to discharge him, fearing that all his other hands will
strike.
Resolved, that we view the Trades' Union as a pow-
erful engine of the levelling system ; its operation is cal-
culated to reduce the employer to the condition of a
journeyman, and to keep the well disposed and indus-
trious journeyman a journeyman all the days of his life,
as he is restricted from doing over work, even though
he is so disposed.
Resolved, that the Trades Union is calculated to
weaken and destroy the harmony and ties of mutual
interest that formerly existed between the master and
apprentices; the boys have their minds poisoned by the
members of the association, until they no longer con-
sult their masters' interest, and finally look upon him as
a hard task master and oppressor, instead of a friend and
protector.
Resolved, that the Trades' Union is the growth of
Monarchial Government, and ill adapted to our Re-
publican Institutions.
Resolved, that we claim the right as Free Citizens,
to make our contracts with the journeymen mechanics
themselves, without the intervention of the Trades' Un-
ion ; and that we do not recognize the right of any asso-
ciation or combination of men, to interfere in the
ordinary transaction of our business.
Resolved, that we are willing, owing to the advanced
price of living, to increase the wages to good workmen,
provided they furnish themselves with tools, as is the
custom of other cities, and that we deem it inexpedient
to name any sum, preferring that every man be at liberty
to make his own bargains, and be master of his own shop
or building.
54 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Resolved, that the Master Mechanics of the city and
county of Philadelphia, be invited to attend a meeting,
for the purpose of forming an association to be called
the Anti-trades' Union Association, the object will be
to protect us from the mischievous effects arising from
that combination.
Resolved, that a committee of seven persons be ap-
pointed to carry into effect the last resolution.
The Chairman appointed the following persons as
the committee on the last resolution, Samuel Cope-
land, D. Henry Flickwir, Thos. S. Stewart, Daniel R.
Knight, Jonathan Johnson, Jesse Williamson, Jr. and
George Dilks. On motion, resolved, the officers of the
meeting be added to the committee.
On motion, resolved, that the names of all the employ-
ers present be taken down, when the following named
persons gave in their names as Master Carpenters.
[One hundred, thirty-four names omitted.]
On motion, resolved, the proceedings of this meeting
be published, signed by the officers. On motion ad-
journed. James Leslie, President.
John Northrop, Jr., John Longstreth, Vice Pres'ts.
John Lindsay, Wm. C. Hancock, Secretaries.
(b) THE journeymen STATE THEIR CASE
Pennsylvanian, March 21, 1836, p. 2, col. 7.
Preamble and resolutions adopted at a meeting of journeymen house
carpenters, March 18, 1836.
Whereas, at a meeting of the employing carpenters
of the city and county of Philadelphia, held pursuant
to public notice, at the Carpenters' old Hall, on Mon-
day, March 14th, 1836, have in their published pro-
ceedings made charges against the Trades' Union and
this Association, accompanied with threats to put down
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 55
all combinations that may be formed by mechanics, for
the promotion and protection of their own interests,
which charges, unsupported as they are by any evidence
of their truth, are as malicious as their threats against
the Trades' Union are vain and ridiculous. The con-
stitution of our country secures to all its citizens the
right to associate for the promotion of their own inter-
ests. All the various professions and callings, that
compose society, have always exercised and enjoyed this
right unmolested. Such a course of proceedings on the
part of the employing carpenters is ill calculated to
produce that mutual good feeling, which they say is so
essential to our mutual interests. The employers say
some branches of mechanics have some supposed griev-
ances to complain of. A plain statement of facts will,
we think, convince the public that our grievances are
real. The average wages of our trade have been, before
the strike of the ten hour system, one dollar and twenty
five cents per day, from the first of April to the first of
November, and one dollar and twelve and a half cents
for the remaining part of the year. Not more than one
half of the journeymen have employment more than
nine months in the year, we are very much exposed
to the heat of the summer sun while roofing or fram-
ing, and in the winter time to work in cold bleak shops
or in open buildings without fire, or are compelled to
lose time. The cost of journeymen's tools is from ten
to an hundred dollars, which they are obliged to carry
very often on their backs like pack horses, from shop
to shop, and from building to building, and which
they are liable to have stolen from them or destroyed
by fire. Many employers have been in the habit of
employing hands only during the long days of summer,
56 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
discharging them as soon as the days become short; an
unjust, but almost general custom has long since been
established in the city of withholding one third of our
wages, paying us only five dollars per week for months
and sometimes years, without allowing us any interest
for what is withheld, by which means we are often com-
pelled to take orders in payment. A member of the
committee that drafted resolutions for the meeting of
the employers, has been known to purchase fifty dollars
worth of hats at a discount of thirty per cent, and palm
them on his journeymen in payment for their labor.
Many of us would prefer working piece-work if we
could know the price that would be put on our work;
but we cannot know it in consequence of the employ-
ers' book of prices being secret; that it is unjust, num-
bers of us have learned to our cost: nor are we the only
ones that have paid dearly for learning the fact. We
have the evidence of citizens that have had work done
for them, valued by the book in question, that it is un-
just. A book of prices that is secret cannot be impar-
tial or just. These are some of the grievances of which
we have to complain. Our country and city are in a
very flourishing condition; the increase in the price of
living every body knows is great; we have in conse-
quence asked an increase of 25 cents on last years' wages,
to take place on the 20th of March, and have given our
employers three months' notice of our intention, for this
just and reasonable request, we are indebted for the
base and malicious charges and threats, against the
Trades' Union and this Association. Therefore
Resolved, that the resolutions of the employers have
more than ever convinced us of the danger we would
be exposed to without our union.
Resolved, that we earnestly recommend to the jour-
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 57
neymen in every branch of business, that have not yet
become members of the Trades' Union, to organize
speedily for that purpose, and thus participate in a
right, guaranteed by the constitution of the United
States to all citizens of this Republic. . .
6. CO-OPERATION
(a) PROGRESS AND WARNING
National Laborer, Nov. 26, 1836, p. 143, col. i.
The work of Co-operation goes bravely on, and we
are pleased to notice the movements of the Trade So-
cieties. The present moment is auspicious to the Work-
ingmen, and their whole hearts should be engaged in
the cause in order to have Co-operative Trade Associ-
ations established simultaneously by the various branch-
es of the Union.
In another column will be found a communication
addressed particularly to the Hatters, which we recom-
mend to the perusal of the members of that trade. The
Society, we understand, has appointed a committee to
report a plan for commencing business, and in a very
short time we may expect the Hatters of this city will
be their own masters.
The Tailors' Society has also appointed a committee
for the same purpose, and we know no body of work-
ingmen who could commence the system with greater
certainty of success.
The Saddlers and Harness Makers have outstripped
all others. They have already appropriated their fund
for the purpose of Co-operation, besides having an in-
stitution in progress which is rapidly increasing its cap-
ital, and will doubtless be an able and useful auxiliary
to the Societ>\
Several other Societies, we learn, are agitating the
subject, but we regret our inability to give their names.
The Handloom Weavers, No. i, have two Co-opera-
PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 59
tive Manufactories in successful operation. The Cord-
wainers of the Ladies' Branch have discovered the error
in their joint stock store, and have resolved to reorgan-
ise it on a different plan, and instead of a stock com-
pany, to make it a Co-operative Union.
We will now make a few remarks to the members of
the Union, which we hope will receive their serious con-
sideration. You are about taking a vast and important
step, and caution, vigilance, and patience are necessary
to the attainment of your object. If you neglect the
general Union, or suffer its protecting power to dimin-
ish, you are lost. You can look nowhere for aid in case
of embarrassment, but to your fellow-laborers, and they
may be likewise in want. But rally all round the Union -
increase its fund -strive to keep within its guardian
arm every Society and every member, and in your hour
of need or trouble, there it will stand, firm as a rock, a
guide to your path, and at watch-tower to light you on-
ward to success and prosperity.
Do not be too sanguine, or rather be not too impa-
tient. Think not that a day will bring forth all the
blessings of Co-operation. Your progress must necessar-
ily be slow, but it will nevertheless be sure. The foun-
dation must be laid before the building can be erected -
your capital must be collected, and in your circumstan-
ces you must be satisfied with small beginnings. Small
weekly contributions are all that can be expected from
a great majority of the working people, and all that
should be required. While therefore the capital is
gradually accumulating, plans might be suggested and
discussed, respecting the best mode of conducting the
business, and a plain and perfect system could be dis-
covered by the time the capital was large enough to
commence operations.
6o AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
We will repeat here a previous recommendation. Let
every Trade Society in Philadelphia adopt a resolu-
tion requiring of its members a weekly or monthly
contribution to enable them to enter into business for
themselves, and at the same time continue their dues
to the Union, to be applied to the same end. This prop-
osition is simple and plain, but there are many who
object to its adoption -there are many good men in
every Society, who, though they acknowledge the bene-
fits of Co-operation, deem it impracticable, and there-
fore oppose it- and there are many who reject it without
giving any reasons for their course. But these things
should not deter its friends from their duty, but should
rather inspire them with renewed vigor and industry
in propagating the scheme. All these obstacles may
be surmounted -and ought to be removed. We grant
that it is essential that harmony and unanimity in the
Societies, and in the Union, should remain undisturbed,
and that nothing should be rashly adopted which might
cause dissatisfaction or dissension among the members.
But you need fear nothing on this point-you may pro-
ceed in such a manner as to satisfy all. Many ways
might be pointed out, and we will give one: let a pro-
viso be attached to the resolution that any member who
disapproves of the measure at the expiration of one year,
may be repaid the full amount of his dues; this would
be a surety to all that they would lose nothing -the
money would be safe in the care of the responsible
agents of the Society, and any who might be disposed to
withdraw their money, would even find themselves gain-
ers in having a sum saved for them which might other-
wise have been spent to less profit. Where, then, let
us ask, is the man, and what is he, who would refuse
to make an experiment which costs him nothing, and
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 6i
which offers bright hopes of intellectual and pecuniary
advancement to him and the whole body of productive
laborers. Let them try it, therefore, for one year, and
if they do, we may safely prophesy that few Trades'
Unionists would avail themselves of the opportunity
to remain journeymen, when they saw their brethren
about to raise themselves from penury and degradation,
to prosperity and independence. Again, the objectors
should be appealed to, not to deter their fellow-mem-
bers from embarking in an enterprise which gives cer-
tain promise of a golden harvest- they should be told
to look among the workingmen, and see whether the
present plan of reform has been productive of good-
they should be entreated by their wishes for the welfare
of their children, to let the good cause proceed, and to
wait patiently for the fulfilment. Little exertion will
be required during the first year; the dues will flow in
slowly and surely; and Co-operation will grow in
strength and in extent, all its branches spread from one
extremity of the Union to the other.
Again we repeat our caution to you, workingmen, to
preserve and cherish the Trades' Union. Be not too
precipitate in your movements, lest your plans prove
abortive. Come to a perfect understanding with your
friends in various trades. Give freely to each other
your views on the subject. Agitate the question in all
places, that every side may be exhibited, and a perfect
system adopted.
A method of eliciting information has occurred to
us, which we feel it our duty to propose, and we sin-
cerely hope that every Society will immediately adopt
it. Let each Trade Society choose a committee from
its members, to be composed of those who are in favor,
and those who are opposed to Co-operation, if there
62 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
be any opponents. Let these committees be directed
to meet at a place and time agreed upon, for the purpose
of holding a general conference on the subject- a con-
versation meeting, where the question may be calmly
and deliberately discussed, and where the reasons for
and against may be given dispassionately. Much good
would undoubtedly result from such a meeting, and we
might confidently hope that all who are yet in doubt
and darkness respecting the utility of Co-operation,
would be convinced and converted. It is important
that such a meeting be held at this, time, especially for
the reason that several Societies have commenced the
work, and should seek diligently for the best possible
plan. Many Societies are also waiting anxiously to
ascertain the best manner of starting, and will begin as
soon as they can see the way clear. We shall look with
much interest and hope for the proposed conference.
(b) TRADES' UNION CONFERENCE
National Laborer, Feb. ii, 1837, p. 187, ccl. 2. Editorial.
In March twenty-one trades were represented at an adjourned meet-
ing of this conference.
Co-operation. On Monday evening last, the dele-
gates from nearly all the Societies composing the
Trades' Union assembled at Military Hall, for the pur-
pose of holding a conference on the subject of Co-opera-
tion. We judged there were nearly two hundred per-
sons present, and it was truly a cheering scene. So large
a gathering for such a purpose, proclaims more clearly
than words can express, the mighty advance which the
workingmen have made towards their own elevation,
and gives glorious promise of a final triumph over the
powers that oppress them. The question was debated
with much zeal and judgment; ail acknowledged its
utility, but its practicability was doubted by a few. All,
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 63
however, attended, not determined to carry out their
peculiar views, but to give the subject a fair, impartial,
and full investigation, and it is impossible that good
can fail to spring from such a course.
In speaking of this conference, and the object sought
by it, we will be allowed to remark that the working-
men are in the right path, and the only path which leads
to the temple of freedom and prosperity. If they hold
and travel together they will reach it in safety, but they
must go united. Singly they cannot overcome the thou-
sands of obstacles which are before them, but if they
move forward in union, confiding in each other, these
obstacles will all be surmounted -they will vanish like
the darkness at the approach of morning.
We charge the workingmen not to raise the first
stumbling-block themselves, by declaring Co-operation
to be impracticable. Look around you, and see the host
of institutions which are reaping the profits of your
labor- examine the principle of their organization -
what is it? Co-operation from first to last. Do their
members talk of impracticability? No. And yet how
much more formidable were the obstacles they had to
surmount, than those you complain of. They are based
on capital -unreal and unsubstantial wealth, while your
associations will be based on labor- useful and valuable.
It is but for you to resolve and it is done - Banks would
shut up their doors were it not for your industry; and if
you must have Banks and paper money, establish them
for yourselves. It was thought impracticable to form a
union of the Trades, and yet we see that it has been done.
It would have been laughed at if it had been proposed
to that Union to raise $12,000 in six months, and yet we
see that it was done. It never would have been voted
to raise that sum, for to almost all it would have
64 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
seemed "impracticable" -and members were astonished
that such a sum had been raised. Few could have been
persuaded that a society of poor journeymen Cabinet
Makers would, in a short time, possess the most exten-
sive warehouse, and the most prosperous establishment
in this city, and yet we need not tell you it is the fact.
It was declared impracticable that Hand-loom Weav-
ers, who toiled twelve or fifteen hours a day to earn
five or seven dollars a week, could go into Co-operation,
and yet with a few months' perseverance we find them
possessed of means for the establishment of two man-
ufactories, which are now in successful and profitable
operation. These facts place the practicability of Co-
operation beyond dispute, and show that in great un-
dertakings "the attempt and not the deed confounds us."
If then we see Co-operation effected in a single trade
society, how much more practicable must it appear when
nurtured by union, and when a general fund is available
to all.
In commencing this glorious work, however, the
workingmen need not retrace a single step -all the
preparations are made -money alone is required, and
a resolution to raise it. Nearly all the workingmen are
joined in societies, and those societies are formed into
a union. What then remains? Simply for the members
of each society to resolve to pay into their own fund a
certain weekly sum - let the dues to the Union be con-
tinued, and reserved exclusively for the purpose of loan-
ing to Trade Societies entering into Co-operation; let
the amount loaned by the Union be equal to such sum
as the Society applying may have raised from its own
members. This would excite a laudable energy in each
Society to accumulate as much as possible by its own
exertions, knowing that the loan will be equal to its
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 65
own fund. In a short time these loans could be repaid,
and the fund of the Union applied to establish schools
for the education of members' children or apprentices,
for the opening of grocery or provision stores, where
members could purchase at cost, and for providing
wood and coal to supply them throughout the year at
cost. If the members were disposed, nothing would be
easier than for the Union to issue notes based on its
capital, and benefit in a thousand ways their members -
but all these will develop themselves in the progress of
the work, and in their proper time.
Workingmen-look at these things and know your
power. Here learn the true and certain plan for
thrusting back into their contemptible insignificance
those who despise your honorable occupations. Join
all of you in carrying on this great work, and by this
method teach the stupid oppressor and the aspiring
aristocrat that they must seek their level among their
offspring- the vagrant and the rogue. Persevere in Co-
operation, and you will not "long endure the vulgar
dominion of ignorance and profligacy." Persevere in
Co-operation, and the "avenging hour will at last come" -
"the banditti will be scourged back to their caverns,"
and the high reaching aristocracy who insult you and
trample on your rights, will be prostrated forever.
Persevere in Co-operation, and "the penitentiary will
soon reclaim its fugitives in office, while the only re-
membrance which history will preserve of them, is the
energy with which you resisted and defeated them."
7. THE WORKING MEN'S CONVENTION,
1838-1839
(a) CALL FOR THE CONVENTION
Public Ledger, Nov. 24, 1838, p. 2, col. 4.
At a meeting of Delegates from the Cordwainers,
Coachmakers, Tailors, Framework Knitters, Oak Coop-
ers, Brushmakers, Carpenters, Silver Platers, and Cedar
Coopers' Societies, it was resolved to hold a general
Convention of the various Trade Societies of the city
and county of Philadelphia, on Monday Evening, the
7th January, 1839, at the Exchange Hotel, Bank street,
to consult upon such measures as will promote their wel-
fare and prosperity.
All Trade Societies are earnestly requested to attend
to the above call, and such branches of mechanism as
are not organized are requested to hold meetings and
elect Delegates. Number of Delegates not limited.
The committee of arrangements will sit at the Me-
chanics' Library, Fifth street, below Arch, every Thurs-
day evening, from 7 to 8 o'clock, where any information
in reference to the Convention can be obtained, and
where Societies are requested to report as soon as they
elect delegates. n24 3t
(b) PROCEEDINGS
Public Ledger, Jan. 26, 1839, p. 2, col. 3.
A number of other meetings were held, but their proceedings were not
published. The address mentioned in the last minutes published
has not been found.
[January 22] . . . Credentials from the Oak
Coopers' Society, were read and accepted.
PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 67
E. A. Penniman submitted a letter from Frederick
J. Remington, of Albany, which was read, and on mo-
tion of Thomas C. Steele, ordered to be entered in full
upon the minutes.
Israel Young, from the Committee appointed to in-
quire upon what terms the proceedings of the Conven-
tion could be published -reported that two daily papers
would publish them without charge; when on motion
of Wm. Gilmore the report was accepted, and the
thanks of the Convention returned for their liberal
offer.
The Convention then on motion of Mr. Lasselle,
resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, for the
purpose of resuming the consideration of "The forma-
tion of Trade Associations for the improvement of the
moral and intellectual condition of the Mechanics."
Mr. Gilmore in the Chair-when after an interesting
debate in which Messrs. BrufT, Young, Penniman, Man-
sure, Steele, Keeler, McClure, Jackson, Samuel Sayre
and Samuel C. Thompson took part, the Committee
rose, reported progress, and the Convention adjourned
to meet again on Tuesday evening, the 29th inst.
W.G.
Public Ledger, Feb. 2, 1839, p. 2, col. 5.
[January 29] . . . On motion of William Gil-
more, John S. Vandyke, Marble Laborer, was admitted
to a seat in the Convention.
J. S. Fletcher submitted the following resolution,
which was adopted: resolved, that the Committee on
Business be instructed to report a plan of union of the
dillferent trades that are closely connected, so that the
different branches of mechanism may be more perma-
nently united. . .
68 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
[The Committee of the Whole then resumed the con-
sideration of the trade society question.]
Public Ledger, Feb. 7, 1839, p. 2, col. i.
[February 5] ... A credential from the Brush
Makers' Society, returning J. Conrad as a delegate,
was read and accepted.
Henry Beeny submitted the following resolutions
and laid them on the table until the next meeting: re-
solved, that we recommend to the Societies represented
in this Convention, the election of delegates to the
Trades' Union, previous to the semi-annual meeting in
March. Resolved, that this Convention recommend to
the various Trade Societies, the formation of Unions in
their respective branches of business throughout the
United States, as far as practicable.
[The Committee of the Whole then resumed the con-
sideration of the trade society question.]
Public Ledger, Feb. ii, 1839, P- 2, col. 4.
[February 7] . . . Israel Young, from the Com-
mittee appointed to classify the different trades, sub-
mitted a report, which, on motion, was accepted.
On motion of Mr. Yearsly, it was resolved, that the
Convention hold two meetings each week, in order to
facilitate the business of which it was organized.
Mr. Cany presented a letter from John Wilbank,
which was read and ordered to be filed with the pro-
ceedings of the Convention.
Mr. Yearsly submitted the following resolution,
which was laid on the table until the next meeting: re-
solved, that a Committee be appointed to address the
Mechanics and Workingmen of the city and county
of Philadelphia, on the importance of forming Asso-
ciations for pecuniary benefits and the improvement of
the mind, as recommended by the Convention.
six] PHILADELPHIA GENERAL TRADES' UNION 69
The Convention then, on motion of Mr. Gilmore, re-
solved itself into a Committee of the Whole upon the
formation of a Literary and Scientific Institute -Mr.
McClure in the Chair -when, after considerable de-
bate, in which Messrs. Mansure, Pierce, Bruff, Steele,
Frescoln, Fletcher, Brelshford and Penniman took part,
the Committee rose, and the Convention adjourned to
meet again on Thursday evening, the 14th inst. -W. G.
Public Ledger, Feb. i8, 1839, p. 2, col. 4.
[February 14] . . . The resolution of Mr.
Yearsly, offered at the previous meeting, calling for the
appointment of a committee to draft an address to the
Mechanics of the City and County, was taken up and
adopted; whereupon the following named persons were
appointed said committee: E. A. Penniman, S. C.
Thompson, William Gilmore, E. Dallas, Thomas
O'Neill, George Clark, J. Botsford, Samuel Sayres,
Thomas Steele, J. J. Pierce and John Wright. . .
[The Committee of the Whole then resumed the con-
sideration of the question of forming a Literary and
Scientific Institute.]
Public Ledger, Feb. 26, 1839, p. 2, col i.
[February 22] . . . E. A. Penniman offered the
following resolution, which was adopted: resolved, that
this Convention adjourn sine die on Tuesday evening,
26th inst.
The resolution offered at a previous meeting, by Hen-
ry Beemy, recommending the formation of Associations
throughout the United States, was called up and
adopted.
The report of the Committee of the Whole was then
taken up, and the recommendations contained therein,
after having been amended as follows, were unanimously
adopted: resolved, that this Convention recommend
70 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
the formation of trade societies and associations in every
branch of mechanism, and that the societies now in ex-
istence take immediate and active measures to carry out
fully the objects of their organization. Resolved, that
we recommend the formation of united trade societies
and associations, and that a committee of two from each
trade be appointed to take measures to organize the
same. Resolved, that we recommend the formation of
a literary and scientific institute for the diffusion of
useful knowledge; that the institute be immediately
established by adopting the ''Mechanics' Library," in-
corporated in 1829; and that the workingmen use all
exertions to increase the usefulness and value of said
institution. Resolved, that we recommend the erec-
tion of a Mechanics' Hall, with Reading, Library, De-
bating and Lecture Rooms, and that the Mechanics Li-
brary Company take measures, as soon as practicable,
to erect said Hall.
Robert^ Mansuel offered the following resolution,
which was adopted: resolved, that the committee ap-
pointed to draft an address, be requested to report on
Tuesday, at 7 o'clock precisely. And then the Conven-
tion adjourned.
VII
OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS
i
INTRODUCTION
During this period central labor organizations, or
trades' unions, were formed in at least eleven cities be-
sides New York and Philadelphia. These were Bos-
ton, Baltimore, Washington, Albany, Troy, Schenec-
tady, Newark, New Brunswick, Pittsburgh, Cincin-
nati, and Louisville. Trades' Unions doubtless existed
in a number of other cities, as, for example, in Rich-
mond, Va.
The most important of these was the Boston Trades'
Union, which was formed in March, 1834. Two big
ten-hour strikes had occurred in Boston, one of the
house-carpenters in 1825, ^^^ one of the ship-carpen-
ters in 1832; and both had been defeated, not by the
master carpenters, but by the employers of the masters,
the capitalists, and merchants. Soon after the forma-
tion of the Boston Trades' Union the house carpenters,
masons and stone-cutters of that city again went on
strike for a ten-hour day and issued a circular stating
their grievances. The Boston mechanics also sent a
delegation, including Seth Luther, to New York and
Philadelphia, to solicit aid from those cities, and later
published a pamphlet called the ''Proceedings of the
Government and Citizens of Philadelphia on the Re-
duction of the Hours of Labor and Increase of Wages."
Nevertheless, only the plasterers appear to have won
their strike,^ and it is probable that the Boston Trades'
^Radical Reformer and JVorking Man's Advocate, Aug. 8, 1835.
74 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Union was unable to prolong its somewhat feeble ex-
istence for any great length of time. The admission
of employers and the tendency to branch into politics
doubtless contributed to its decay.
The Baltimore Trades' Union was formed even ear-
lier that that of Philadelphia. It originated in a
lockout declared by the employing hatters in order to
reduce wages and was immediately followed by a ten-
hour movement participated in by some seventeen
trades. The different trades of the city met together in
July, 1833, to protest against the hatters' lockout (which
was evidently successfully resisted by the journeymen),
in August to consider the ten-hour system, and in Sep-
tember to form a Union Trade Society.^ A year later
the name of this organization appears to have been
changed to the "Trades' Union." In 1835 fifteen trade
associations were represented, and the union was ap-
parently in flourishing condition in 1836.
The trades' union of the District of Columbia was
formed in the summer of 1833, the carpenters taking
the lead. It was not, however, until after the issuing
of an address to the working men of the District in
December, 1835, that the union became a prominent
factor in the industrial life of Washington.
In Albany, on the other hand, the initiative was taken
by the saddlers and harness-makers, and a union was
formed which for some time included delegates from
Troy and Schenectady. Later, however, separate un-
ions were formed in both of these cities. In Decem-
ber, 1836, there were thirteen societies represented in
the Albany Trades' Union.
-There was also a political movement among the mechanics of Baltimore
during the fall of 1833, but the party was split in two by internal discord,
the majority of the mechanics apparently being anti-Jackson {Baltimore Re-
publican, Sept. 9, 12. 20, 25, Oct. 7, 1833).
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 75
An active trades' union had been formed in Newark,
N.J., before January, 1835; and one was organized in
New Brunswick, N.J., in June, 1835. In the latter
place the cordwainers took the initiative. In 1836
trades' unions were also formed in Pittsburgh, Cincin-
nati, and Louisville, which then represented the Far
West. Seven societies were represented in the Louis-
ville Trades' Union in June, 1836, and others, it was
said, were preparing to join.
I. BOSTON
(a) HOUSE-CARPENTERS' STRIKE OF 1825
(i) Resolutions of Master Carpenters, from the Columbian Centinel,
April 20, 1825, p. 3, col. I.
Resolutions passed at a meeting of a large number of master carpenters
on April 15, 1825.
Resolved, that we learn with surprize and regret,
that a large number of those who are employed as
Journeymen in this city, have entered into a combina-
tion for the purpose of altering the time of commencing
and terminating their daily labor, from that which has
been customary from time immemorial, thereby lessen-
ing the amount of labor each day in a very considerable
degree.
Resolved, that we consider such a combination as
unworthy of that useful and industrious class of the
community who are engaged in it; that it is fraught
with numerous and pernicious evils, not only as respects
their employers, but the public at large, and especially
themselves; for all Journeymen of good character and
of skill, may expect very soon to become masters, and
like us the employers of others; and by the measure
which they are now inclined to adopt, they will entail
upon themselves the inconvenience to which they seem
desirous that we should now be exposed!
Resolved, that we consider the measure proposed,
as calculated to exert a very unhappy influence on our
apprentices -by seducing them from that course of in-
dustry and economy of time, to which we are anxious to
enure them. That it will expose the Journeymen them-
selves to many temptations and improvident practices
OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 77
from which they are happily secure, while they attend
to that wise and salutary maxim of Mechanics, "Mind
Your Business." That we consider idleness as the most
deadly bane to usefulness and honorable living; and
knowing, (such is human nature,) that where there is
no necessity, there is no exertion, we fear and dread
the consequences of such a measure upon the morals and
well being of society.
Resolved, that we cannot believe this project to have
originated with any of the faithful and industrious
Sons of New England, but are compelled to consider it
an evil of foreign growth, and one which we hope and
trust will not take root in the favored soil of Massa-
chusetts. And especially, that our city, the early rising
and industry of whose inhabitants are universally pro-
verbial, may not be infested with the unnatural produc-
tion.
Resolved, that if such a measure were ever to be
proper and necessary, the time has not yet arrived when
it is so; if it would ever be just, it cannot be at a time
like the present, when, builders have generally made
their engagements and contracts for the season, having
predicated their estimates and prices upon the original
state of things in reference to Journeymen. And we
appeal therefor to the good sense, the honesty and jus-
tice of all who are engaged in this combination, and
ask them to review their doings, contemplate their con-
sequences, and then act as becomes men of sober sense,
and of prudence.
Resolved, finally, that we will make no alteration in
the manner of employing Journeymen, as respects the
time of commencing and leaving work, and that we
will employ no man who persists in adhering to the pro-
ject of which we complain. COMMITTEE.
78 AME RICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
[Twenty-four names omitted.]
(2) Notice to House Carpenters in the Country, from the Columbian
Ccniinel, April 23, 1825, p. i, col. i.
Notice to House Carpenters and Housewrights in
the country. An advertisement having appeared in the
papers of this city, giving information that there is at
this time a great demand for workmen in this branch of
mechanical business in this city, it is considered a duty
to state for the benefit of our brethren of the trade, that
we are not aware of any considerable demand for labor
in this business, as there is, at this time, a very consid-
erable number of Journeymen Carpenters who are out
of employ, and the probable inducement which led to
the communication referred to, arises from a disposition
manifested on the part of the Builders in this city to
make their own terms as to the price of labor, and the
number of hours labor which shall hereafter constitute a
day's work. It being a well known fact that the most un-
reasonable requirements have been hitherto exacted
with regard to the terms of labor of Journeymen Me-
chanics in this city; and it is further well known that
in the cities of New- York, Philadelphia, Baltimore,
and most of the other cities a much more liberal and
equitable course of policy has been adopted by the Mas-
ter Builders, on this subject, giving to their Journeymen
that fair and liberal support to which they are unques-
tionably entitled. It is an undoubted fact that, on the
present system, it is impossible for a Journeyman
Housewright and House Carpenter to maintain a fam-
ily at the present time, with the wages which are now
usually given to the Journeymen House Carpenters in
this city.
April 16 2sp
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 79
(3) Resolutions of "Capitalists."
Columbian Centinel, April 23, 1825, p. 2, col. 3. Resolutions passed
at a meeting of "gentlemen engaged in building the present season,"
on April 21, 1825.
Resolved, that we view with regret the late proceed-
ings of a portion of the Journeymen Carpenters of this
city, terminating in a combination to curtail the usual
number of working hours.
Resolved, that these proceedings are a departure
from the salutary and steady usages which have pre-
vailed in this city, and all New England, from time
immemorial, by an adherence to which. Apprentices
and Journeymen, accustomed to industrious and tem-
perate habits, have, in their turn, become thriving and
respectable Masters, and the great body of our Mechan-
ics have been enabled to acquire property and respecta-
bility, with a just weight and influence in society; that
if this confederacy should be countenanced by the com-
munity, it must, of consequence, extend to and embrace
all the Working Classes in every department in Town
and Country, thereby effecting a most injurious change
in all the modes of business, and in the operations of
agriculture and commerce, opening a wide door for
idleness and vice, and finally commuting the present
condition of the Mechanical Classes, made happy and
prosperous by frugal, orderly, temperate and ancient
habits, for that degraded state, by which in other coun-
tries, many of these classes are obliged to leave their
homes, bringing with them their feelings and habits,
and a spirit of discontent and insubordination to which
our native Mechanics have hitherto been strangers.
Resolved, that while it is admitted every man is free
to make such contract in respect to time and wages as
he may think for his interest, it is also considered that
all combinations by any Classes of Citizens, intended
8o AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
to regulate or effect the value of labor by abridging
its duration, are in a high degree unjust and injurious
to all other classes, inasmuch as they give an artificial
and unnatural turn to business, and tend to convert all
its branches into Monopolies. If the Journeymen Car-
penters, by an example which other trades shall follow,
effect an unnatural rise in the price of labor, their em-
ployers, who vend salt, sugar, and other necessaries,
must indemnify themselves by similar combinations, or
suspend their employment.
Resolved, that we do highly approve of the firmness,
temperance and intelligence manifested by the Master
Carpenters in their proceedings, and indulge a strong
hope that they will produce a due effect upon the well-
disposed among the Journeymen, and that those, upon
reflection, will be satisfied that a perseverance in their
present course, will, in the end, produce a reaction ruin-
ous only to themselves.
Resolved, that it is expedient for those concerned
in building the present season, to support the Master
Carpenters, on the ground by them taken, at whatever
sacrifice or inconvenience, and to this end extend the
time for the fulfilment of their contracts, and even to sus-
pend, if necessary, building altogether, and that we can
foresee no loss or inconvenience arising from such sus-
pensions, equal to what must result from permitting
such combinations to be effectual.
Resolved, that we cordially and sincerely invite and
entreat the Journeymen to retrace their steps and return
to their business, and to realize by their industry and
perseverance in the good old way, the fair advantages,
which are now promised by full employment and good
wages to all who will embrace them, and we cannot
doubt, that all who think themselves worthy of becom-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 8i
ing Masters, will perceive their true interest in con-
forming to this advice. But if contrary to expectation
they should persevere in the present determination, we
hereby agree and pledge ourselves to each other, not to
employ any such Journeymen, or any other Master Car-
penter who shall yield to their pretensions.
Voted, that the resolutions now adopted be published
in the papers of this city, and that Messrs. John Bel-
lows, Josiah Marshall, John D. Williams, Samuel Per-
kins, and Amos Lawrence be a Committee to present
them to the Building Committee of Faneuil Hall Mar-
ket for their concurrence, and to deposit the same in
convenient public places for the signatures of such cit-
zens as may approve them, and that fifty copies be print-
ed for this purpose.
H. G. Otis, Chairman -W. H. Eliot, Secretary.
(b) SHIP-CARPENTERS' STRIKE OF 1832
(i) Meeting of Merchants and Ship-owners, from the Independent
Chronicle and Boston Patriot, May 19, 1832, p. i, col. 4.
Preamble and resolutions passed at a meeting of the merchants and
ship-owners of Boston on May 15, 1832.
Inasmuch as it is the opinion of the undersigned
that labour ought always to be left free to regulate it-
self, and that neither the employer nor the employed
should have the power to control the other; and that
all combinations to regulate the price and the hours of
labour, nor to restrain individual freedom and enter-
prise, are at all times attended with pernicious conse-
quences, and especially so to the individuals whose in-
terests they are intended to promote; and inasmuch as
we believe the price of mechanical skill and labour in
Boston has been and now is as high, if not higher, than
in any city in the world, and that no unreasonable ser-
vice is expected or required ; therefore it is
82 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Resolved, that we view with deep regret the course
which some of our fellow citizens, journeymen ship
carpenters, caulkers, and others, are pursuing, in the
adoption and maintenance of a system of measures de-
signed to coerce individuals of their craft, and to pre-
scribe the time and manner of that labour for which
they are liberally paid.
Resolved, that, in our opinion, the tendency of this
combination of the ship carpenters, caulkers, and others,
instead of benefitting them, has a direct tendency either
to put their business into other hands, or seriously to
injure it in this place, by inducing ship owners to re-
pair their vessels elsewhere, rather than to submit to
the inconvenience, delays, and vexations to which they
would be exposed, where they can obtain labour only
at such times and on such conditions as the folly and
caprice of a few journeymen mechanics may dictate,
who are now idle two or three of the most valuable
hours in the day.
Resolved, that we will so far discountenance all as-
sociations and combinations for the purposes before stat-
ed, that we will neither employ any journeyman who,
at the time, belong to such combination, nor will we
give work to any master mechanic who shall employ
them while they continue thus pledged to each other,
and refuse to work during the hours that it has been and
is now customary for other mechanics to work in this
city.
Resolved, that these measures be carried into effect
from and after Tuesday next, the twenty-second in-
stant.
[One hundred, six signatures omitted.]
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 83
(2) Statement of the Journeymen, from the Independent Chronicle and
Boston Patriot. May 23, 1832, p. i, col. 6.
To the Merchants of the City of Boston. We pre-
sume it is well known to most of you, that a Society
has been formed, by the Shipwrights and Caulkers of
this city and Charlestown, for their mutual benefit, and
to regulate the days' work and the number of hours to
constitute them. Meetings were published in three sev-
eral papers of this city, and our employers were es-
pecially invited to attend. We wished to see them with
us, to consult with us for the common good. At the
first meeting they did not attend. Again they were in-
vited, and the result was the same. We individually
requested them to attend, but with no more success.
We stated to a number of them our grievances, and the
number of days we were obliged to labour without pay,
and we considered it as a heavy tax upon us, and that
we ought not to submit to such regulations as they
thought fit to impose upon us. We will now state some
of them for your consideration, viz: if a vessel has to
be transported from a part of the city to another, we
were compelled to assist in so doing, and, perhaps, (as
the wind and weather might be) we would be often de-
tained two or more days, and perhaps then we should
not have more than three days work upon her, thereby
labouring four days for two days' pay. This, we think,
you will all allow, needs correction. Again, we were
formerly required to be down in the morning by sun
rise, and labour until sun set, in the longest days, allow-
ing hardly time to get our meals; and if any one of us
should happen to be tardy, the finger of scorn was point-
ed at him, or our employer would say, where have you
been, or if you do not come sooner I'll not employ you
any more. And we unanimously came to this conclu-
sion-we would sink or swim. If our employers had
84 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
used us like men, and not been so overbearing, we
should not have spent so much time in having our griev-
ances redressed. We were all born free and equal, and
we do not ask to have our grievances redressed as a
favor, but we demand it as a right. We have come to
this conclusion as it respects the number of hours we
ought to labour. We think ten hours per day is as much
as ought to be done, considering our business is the hard-
est and most trying to the constitution of any other. We
do not upon an average make more than one dollar
per day. We cannot work when other mechanics can.
It is well known by most of you that in wet weather we
cannot work, or in very cold weather. One third part
of the time is a loss to us. It has been stated at the Mer-
chants' meeting that our men are paid liberally; but
what does it amount to when we lose so much time.
There is but very few of us than can, at the end of the
year, make both ends meet. We undertake to say men
can be obtained in this city of our branch of business
at any time, (we mean those who have served a regular
apprenticeship) to do as much work in ten hours as if
they were required to work fifteen. And we are willing
to submit this part of the case to our employers, or
to you, or both. Again, it sometimes happens to rain in
the morning when we have been at work two hours ; our
employers say we cannot pay you for that- and at other
times it happens when we begin at twelve o'clock and
it begins to storm at two, we must break off work, and
if you charge those hours, they will say to you, "we
never pay for hours." We make our appeal to you as
honest and good men. Again, we have been required
to shore up vessels after they are on the railway, and
place blocks likewise; and often times it takes half a
day, when we might have worked at other places. We
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 85
have formed ourselves into a Society, and adopted the
ten hour system. If it be just, why not grant it -we all
have families, and we want a small part of the time for
ourselves. And we now say we are willing to work by
night or day upon any vessel for the merchant, or our
employers, and that we have done it and are still willing
to do it, by being paid extra.
A meeting was held on Saturday evening, at 7 o'clock,
at Fulton House. It was called to order by the Pres-
ident, Mr. Samuel Brintnall, and after stating the object
of it, a motion was made to choose a committee of three
to prepare a statement of facts, and pass some resolu-
tions, which motion was unanimously agreed to. That
committee retired, and through their Chairman, re-
ported as follows :
Resolved, that we are willing to labour by night or
day, either on the railway or in the dock, to facilitate
the business of the merchant, or our employer; the mer-
chant or our employer agreeing to pay for each and
every hour over and above ten, an extra compensation in
proportion to our day's work.
Resolved, that we think it an unreasonable repre-
sentation to make towards the Society of which we are
members, to state in public print, that we are vexatious,
and that we refuse to work any more than ten hours per
day. We are willing to receive any communication, or
meet any committee in a fair and honorable way.
Resolved, that from and after the 20th of March, un-
til the first of September, we will not labour more than
ten hours per day, unless being paid extra for each and
every hour, and that we are willing, if requested, to be-
gin at half past four in the morning, and labour not ex-
ceeding ten hours ; or we will work later in the evening,
86 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
if requested, not exceeding ten, by being paid therefor.
By order of the President.
Alexander Black, Sec'y.
N.B. A Committee has been appointed to give any
information that is required, consisting of the follow-
ing gentlemen: Samuel Brintnall, Richard Hosea,
Benj. Bowen, Daniel Ballard, Jr., John Wilson.
(3) Position of the Master Ship-carpenters, irom the Independent-Chron-
icle and Boston Patriot, May 30, 1832, p. 3, col. 3.
The account of this meeting was accompanied by an advertisement for
forty ship-carpenters and caulkers, who should not be "pledged to
any combination respecting hours," and who were offered wages
of $2.00 per day.
At a meeting of the Master Ship Carpenters and
Caulkers on the 25th of May current, after a decided
expression of their disapprobation of the course of con-
duct pursued by the journeymen of their craft, they
unanimously determined to discourage such combina-
tions of their journeymen, as alike dangerous to the
peace and good order of the community, and at variance
with their own best interest. They then signed the fol-
lowing agreement:
"We, the undersigned, Master Carpenters and Caulk-
ers, do agree to abide by and to support the resolutions
of the Merchants of Boston in regard to the employ-
ment of journeymen who belong to any combination
with respect to the time or price of labor." [Sixteen
signatures omitted.]
Note. The above list includes all the Master Car-
penters and Caulkers of Boston and Charlestown with
the exception of Mr. Edm'd Dolbeare-and of Mr.
Daniel Ballard, who was present at the meeting and as-
sented to this agreement, and said it should be equally
binding on him in all respects, as on those who have
signed; but for particular reasons declined signing it.
!
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 87
(c) TRADES' UNION OF BOSTON AND VICINITY
(i) Call for a Convention, from The Man, Feb. 20, 1834, p. i, col. i, 2.
Circular to the Mechanics of the City of Boston and
Vicinity.
Fellow Citizens: At a meeting of the working
men of this city, holden at the Old Common Council
Room, Court-Square, School-street, January 21, 1834,
the subject of Trades' Unions came before the meeting.
After many interesting remarks, a Committee was ap-
pointed to take such measures as they should deem ex-
pedient to effect the formation of a General Trades'
Union of the mechanics of this city and vicinity. The
Committee thus appointed assembled at Bascom's Hotel,
School-street, on the evening of January 28th ult. They
took the subject into deep and serious consideration,
which resulted in a vote to issue a Circular to the Me-
chanics of Boston and vicinity, in order to lay before
them the nature and design of the proposed Union of
the Trades. The several trades were generally repre-
sented in the committee.
Judging by past experience, and close observation of
causes and effects, which act in reducing the Working
Class in all countries, to a situation far from enviable,
your Committee deem it of the very highest moment,
that something should be done to improve the condi-
tion of the mechanics of our city and vicinity, which
will prevent the fatal results which have followed the
adoption of a cruel and heartless policy towards the
Mechanics of Europe.
The same policy now in successful operation in the
United States will produce the same effects here, as in
older countries, as sure as effect follows cause, unless
we do something to prevent such causes from acting on
88 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
our interests and prosperity. It is unnecessary for us to
repeat in your ears a truth so well known and so deeply
felt by you, that mechanics in no part of the world stand
in a situation equal to that which their usefulness de-
mands.
Without entering into a tedious detail of the many
disadvantages under which the mechanics of this city
and vicinity labor, in common with their brethren in the
various parts of this great Republic, we wish to repre-
sent to you, that the formation of General Trades' Un-
ions have been attended with the most beneficial and
happy results, on the interests of employers and em-
ployed. The cities of New York, Philadelphia, and
Baltimore, have adopted this method of concentrated
action much to the satisfaction of all concerned. Since
the formation of Trades' Unions in those cities, we hear
nothing of difficulties and dissentions between employ-
ers and employed, which in all cases produce dissatis-
faction, discontent and distress; but employers and
employed seem to be harmoniously united for the mu-
tual benefit of both, which ought always to be the case.
If there are a few in those cities more avaricious than
others, who wish to oppress their fellow men to ag-
grandize themselves, the good sense and humanity of the
greater number of honest employers forbid the attempt,
which, if made under the present circumstances grow-
ing out of Trades' Unions would inevitably result in
total failure.
The mode of forming a General Trades' Union is as
follows: Let each branch of mechanics assemble to-
gether; let each of these primary assemblies choose two
delegates to represent them in a General Trades' Con-
vention of the Trades in Boston and vicinity, to meet
and adopt a Constitution for the General Government
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 89
of the Union; after which the different societies will
form a Constitution and By-Laws, in accordance with
the Constitution of the General Union. The Conven-
tion to meet once in three months, and special interme-
diate meetings to be called by the proper officers of the
Union. It is contemplated that each member of the
several societies belonging to the Union will pay into
the general fund, such sum as may be deemed necessary
by the Union in Convention assembled, and at such
times as the delegates shall determine. The fund thus
raised, to be devoted to the relief and assistance of those
out of employ by accidents, or by any other cause, which
will justify the Convention to render such relief; and
when the members requiring such assistance are acting
in accordance with the spirit and letter of the Constitu-
tion, and in accordance with a vote or resolution of the
Union, in Convention assembled, as the case may be.
It would be impossible to give a detail of all the ad-
vantages of such a Union of the Trades, but one advan-
tage will be apparent to you all at first sight. Such a
Union will produce a friction of mind, and no doubt
that sparks of intellectual fire will be thus elicited,
which will electrify, enlighten, and warm the whole
body.
In pursuance of these views, which must necessarily
bebrief in this Circular, the Committee recommend that
the gentlemen of the different trades in Boston and
vicinity would call a meeting of each trade separately,
and choose two delegates to attend a General Conven-
tion to be holden in this city, at the Old Common Coun-
cil Room, Court-Square, School-street, on the first
Thursday in March next, at 7 o'clock in the evening,
to carry into effect such measures as they may deem ex-
pedient, relative to the important object for which they
90 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
shall assemble. The Committee earnestly recommend
that the Mechanics of the towns in the vicinity of Boston
would send delegates to the proposed Convention, fur-
nished with the proper credentials. Where there are
only a few of any particular trade, two or more trades
can unite and send delegates from the body thus organ-
ized. Those trades which have societies already formed,
are requested to take measures to be represented in the
Convention. All of which is respectfully submitted by
the Committee.
Boston, Feb. ii, 1834.
(2) Formation of the Union, from The Man, March 12, 1834, P- 3i
col. I.
Proceedings of a General Convention of the Trades of Boston, March
6, 1834.
. . . The meeting was called to order by Charles
Douglas, (Editor of the New England Artisan^) and
was regularly organized by appointing James Sharp,
Chairman^ and Dunbar B. Harris and Seth Luther,
Secretaries.
On motion, it was voted that a Committee of three be
appointed to receive and examine the credentials of the
Delegates. Messrs. Meserve, Osgood, and Monroe
were appointed on that Committee. The following
gentlemen were reported to be legally entitled to seats
in the Convention, viz.:
Curriers- Alpha Richardson, William Burrage;
Cabinet and Piano Forte Makers -Enoch Haskell, Ed-
win Brown, James Sharp; Tailors -William Dugan,
James Osgood; Masons -Dunbar B. Harris, Smith
Nichols; Coopers -James D. Morgan, Isaac Gannett;
Ship Wrights -David Armstrong, John Holt, Josiah
Hiler, Josephus Freeman; Rope Makers -William D.
Butts, John Currier; Painters- H. Burbeck, William
Holmes; Iron Founders- William R. Hudson, Charles
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 91
Turner; Printers -Andrew Wright, William H. Brews-
ter; House Carpenters -Seth Luther, John B. Meserve;
Sail Makers- Samuel Prince, David Pratt; Machin-
ists -Prescott Rice, E. Packard; Black and White
Smiths -A. Foss, Seth Chadbourn. Delegates from
Charlestown - Benjamin Bowen, James Deblois, James
Bridge, Charles Pool, Frederic Solis, Lenthel Phillips,
Abijah Munroe, William Beckford. Delegates from the
Lynn Female Society -Wm. Phillips, Israel Bufifum.
The following resolution was read and unanimously
adopted. Resolved, that Charles Douglas be requested
to take a seat in the Convention, and be entitled to all
the privileges of a regular member of the same. It was
voted that Mr. Douglas read the Constitution of the
New York Trades' Union ; which was accordingly com-
plied with.
It was voted, that a committee of five be appointed to
retire and draft a Constitution for the government of
the Trades' Union, and present the same for the consid-
eration of this Convention. The following gentlemen
were appointed on this committee, viz. Messrs. Harris,
Luther, Munroe, Richardson, and Wright. On motion
it was voted that Charles Douglas be added to this com-
mittee. The committee having retired, returned, and
reported to the Convention that it was impracticable,
for want of time, to prepare a Constitution to present
to the Convention at this meeting; but the committee
would ask leave to report at an adjourned meeting.
Whereupon, it was voted, that when this Convention
adjourn, it adjourn to next Tuesday evening, to meet
at this place.
The Convention was addressed by Messrs. Douglas
and Luther.
92 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Mr. P. Rice offered the following resolutions, which
were unanimously adopted: resolved, that the New
England Artisan^ published in Boston, faithfully advo-
cates the Working Men's measures, and that in the opin-
ion of this Convention it is worthy of the patronage of
every Working Man throughout the city and throughout
the country. Resolved, that every Delegate present, give
the Artisan his support and patronage. Resolved, that
there be a committee to procure subscribers to the Ar-
tisan, and that all the members of this Convention be
that committee. . .
(3) Attitude towards Employers, from The Man, May 30, 1834, p.
I, col. I.
The policy of admitting employers here justified, may have been in part
responsible for the lack of success of the Boston union as compared
with the unions in New York and Philadelphia, where employers
were excluded.
To the Members of the New York Trades' Union.
If it is indispensable that the Trades' Union should
be composed wholly of journeymen mechanics, or
wholly of their employers, no man would hesitate to
say that it should consist of journeymen alone. But
since the interest of all who obtain their living by hon-
est labor is substantially the same, since the boss is often
brought back to journeywork by hard luck, and the
journeyman may expect in his turn to become an em-
ployer, while both of them are invariably imposed upon
and treated as if belonging to an inferior grade of so-
ciety by those who live without labor, it surely seems
quite desirable that in a union of trades for the common
benefit, both journeyman and employer should come
together.
There are in truth but two parties in our country that
can be said to have distinct interests. The people are
amused by names. Even the thirty-nine Lawyers who
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 93
make the Senate of the United States so illustrious, pre-
tend to a division of interests, and have whiled away
the people's time, and patience, and money, in a six
months' war of words. But we all know those men can
have but one common interest, which consists in gulling
people, and living in idleness upon the fruits of our
labor. Mechanics, farmers, artisans, and all who labor,
whether as boss or journeyman, have a common interest
in sustaining each other- the rich men, the professional
men, and all who now live, or who intend hereafter to
live without useful labor, depending on the sweat of
their neighbor's brow for support, have also a common
interest. And their interest is promoted by working us
hard, and working us cheap. They understand this
matter much better than we do, for they associate, they
form combinations. The Lawyers and Judges lay their
heads together, and impose upon us just what laws they
please, interpret them as they please, and execute them
as they please, whilst we tamely submit to grind out
the task they assign us with the same patience, and the
same spirit and intelligence, too, as a horse in a bark
mill. The doctors associate, the elders form conso-
ciations, the merchants combine, all the rich, all the
idle, and all that hope one day to become so at the
expense of those who labor, form associations to favor
that purpose; and where no positive agreement is en-
tered into, a common interest draws them together. . .
The Boston Trades' Union is now increasing in num-
bers, and in consequence. It is composed of the em-
ployers and the employed. In the delegation from the
same trade, you find the journeyman and his employer
colleagues in the Convention, both feeling that in the
great interest of redeeming the character and the condi-
tion of labor, it is their duty to unite and co-operate.
94 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
That our brother mechanics of the city of New York
may consider it expedient to follow the same example,
so far as the inclinations of the employers will permit,
is the hearty wish of their sincere friend,
A Boston Mechanic.
(4) Ten-hour Circular, from The Man, May 13, 1835, p. 2, col. 4;
p. 4, col. I, 2. Also in National Trades' Union, May 16, 1835, p.
2, col. I.
This was the circular which was republished in Philadelphia and in-
spired there the general strike for ten hours.
At a very large and respectable Meeting of House
Carpenters, Masons and Stone Cutters, assembled in
Julien Hall, Boston, May 4, 1835, to consider the sub-
ject of the hours of labor in order that Ten Hours
should at all times constitute a day's work, the Under-
signed were appointed a Committee to address a Circu-
lar to our brethren in all branches of Mechanical labor
in the City, the Commonwealth and elsewhere, to in-
form them of the state of things in this City, relative to
the subject under consideration. In performing the
duties assignedto them, the Committee, by the authority
in them vested for that purpose, and in the name of the
Carpenters, Masons, and Stone Cutters, do respectfully
represent -
That we are now engaged in a cause, which is not
only of vital importance to ourselves, our families, and
our children, but is equally interesting and equally im-
portant to every Mechanic in the United States and the
whole world. We are contending for the recognition
of the Natural Right to dispose of our own time in
such quantities as we deem and believe to be most con-
ducive to our own happiness, and the welfare of all
those engaged in Manual Labor.
The work in which we are now engaged is neither
more nor less than a contest between Money and Labor:
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 95
Capital, which can only be made productive by labor,
is endeavoring to crush labor the only source of all
wealth.
We have been too long subjected to the odious, cruel,
unjust, and tyrannical system which compels the oper-
ative Mechanic to exhaust his physical and mental pow-
ers by excessive toil, until he has no desire but to eat
and sleep, and in many cases he has no power to do
either from extreme debility.
We contend that no man or body of men, have a right
to require of us that we should toil as we have hitherto
done under the old system of labor.
We go further. No man or body of men who require
such excessive labor can be friends to the country or
the Rights of Man. We also say, that we have rights,
and we have duties to perform as American Citizens
and members of society, which forbid us to dispose of
more than Ten Hours for a day's work.
We cannot, we will not, longer be mere slaves to in-
human, insatiable and unpitying avarice. We have tak-
en a firm and decided stand, to obtain the acknowledg-
ment of those rights to enable us to perform those duties
to God, our Country and ourselves.
Our opponents have no arguments to adduce against
our determination. We have invited them to the contest
in a fair and honorable manner, but they have declined.
They have used trickery, obloquy and abuse instead of
reasoning. We warn all brother Mechanics, especial-
ly Carpenters, Masons and Stone Cutters, to beware
of advertisements for hands. Be assured in all cases
from this time, now, henceforth and forever, that v/hen-
ever a Carpenter, Mason or Stone Cutter, advertises for
a large number of hands as wanted in Boston or any
96 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
other city or town, that it is a mere trick, to deceive and
oppress you. They never guarantee to you one single
day's work, and you will, as in all similar cases, get only
your labor for your pains. There are men enough now
in this city who are skillful, able, and willing to work on
an equitable and just method, and the advertisements
for hands are only traps to ''Catch Gulls." In no in-
stance, in no part of the United States have such calls
for hands been designed for any other purpose, than
the most unjustifiable and wicked deception.
Beware also of the offers of high wages. We have not
asked for an increase of wages, but are willing that
demand and supply should govern the price as it does
that of all other disposable property. To induce you to
assist them to form shackles and fetters for your own
limbs and your own minds, they offer you an increase
of wages. Will you be deceived by this old and shal-
low artifice? We believe you will not -we know you
will not.
When you understand that we are contending for
your rights, for the rights of your families and your
children as well as our own, we feel full confidence that
you will make no movement to retard the accomplish-
ment of the glorious and holy enterprise, both yours
and ours. It is for the rights of humanity we contend.
Our cause is the cause of philanthropy. Our opposers
resort to the most degrading obloquy to injure us. Not
degrading to us, but to the authors of such unmerited
opprobrium which they attempt to cast upon us. They
tell us "We shall spend all our hours of leisure in Drunk-
enness and Debauchery if the hours of labor are re-
duced."
We hurl from us the base, ungenerous, ungrateful,
detestable, cruel, malicious slander, with scorn and in-
dignation.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 97
We assert and challenge the world to controvert the
position that excessive labor has been the immediate
cause of more intemperance than all other causes com-
bined. Physical exhaustion craves and will have ex-
citement of some kind, and the cause of Temperance
never will prevail until slavery among Mechanics shall
cease from the land.
We are friends to temperance "in all things," but any
man who requires of us excessive labor is intemperate ;
if he is not actuated by ardent spirits, he is controlled
by a spirit of inhumanity equally fatal to human happi-
ness.
It is not a long period since some of our opposers made
it a rule to furnish a half pint of ardent spirits to each
man, every day, for no other purpose than to urge the
physical powers to excessive exertion; thank God, those
days have passed away, but they will ever remain a
foul blot on the pages of History. Now we are told
that excessive labor is the only security against intem-
perance.
To show the utter fallacy of their idiotic reasoning,
if reasoning it may be called, we have only to say, they
employ us about eight months in the year during the
longest and the hottest days, and in short days, hun-
dreds of us remain idle for want of work, for three or
four months, when our expenses must of course be the
heaviest during winter. When the long days again
appear, our guardians set us to work as they say, "to
keep us from getting drunk." No fear has ever been
expressed by these benevolent employers respecting our
morals while we are idle in short days, through their
avarice. We would not be too severe on our employers,
they are slaves to the Capitalists, as we are to them.
"The power behind" their "throne is greater than the
98 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
throne itself." But we cannot bear to be the servant of
servants and slaves to oppression, let the source be where
it may. We will be so no longer, for it is rank injustice.
Further, they threaten to starve us into submission to
their will. Starve us to prevent us from getting drunk!
Wonderful Wisdom! Refined Benevolence! Exalted
Philanthropy!
The property holders in this city are dependent night
and day upon the Mechanics, to man their Fire En-
gines; good policy might seem to dictate to them the
expediency of providing a new set of firemen, before
they starve the present ones or drive them to the ex-
tremity of leaving their Engine Houses desolate unto
them. We are willing to bear our portion of the
burthens, and perform our part of the services of social
life, if we can be treated as men and not as beasts of
burthen. We claim by the blood of our fathers, shed
on our battle-fields in the War of the Revolution, the
rights of American Freemen, and no earthly power
shall resist our righteous claims with impunity. When
we hear men, not only Employers, but "highminded"
and honorable Merchants and Capitalists, as they are
called, who are not only dependent on us for the pro-
tection of their property, but for a safe night's rest.
When we hear such men say that we shall all become
drunkards, and they intend to starve us into submission
to their high will, we pity their infatuation and have
painful apprehensions for the safety of the social Fabric.
But the public mind is with us. The glorious work
goes nobly on. Many employers have acceded to our
reasonable demands, and in a few days we sincerely hope
and believe that the victory over old prejudices and anti-
quated customs will be triumphantly complete.
Mechanics of Boston -stand firm- Be true to your-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 99
selves. Now is the time to enroll your names on the
scroll of history as the undaunted enemies of oppres-
sion, as the enemies of mental, moral and physical de-
gradation, as the friends of the human race.
The God of the Universe has given us time, health
and strength. We utterly deny the right of any man to
dictate to us how much of it we shall sell. Brethren in
the City, Towns and Country, our cause is yours, the
cause of Liberty, the cause of God. Respectfully yours,
A. H. Wood, Seth Luther, Levi Abell- Committee.
Editors of newspapers in the United States who are
in favor of equal rights, are respectfully requested to
publish this Circular. THE COMMITTEE.
Boston, May 8, 1835.
2. BALTIMORE
(a) THE HATTERS' LOCKOUT
(i) Merting of Mechanics to Support the Hatters, from the Baltimore
Repuhliran and Commercial Advertiser, July 27, 1833, p. 2, col. 5.
Preamble and resolutions adopted at a meeting of mechanics "of all
denominations" on July 24, 1833. Later a meeting was held "of
the citizens generally," at which similar resolutions were passed
and it was further resolved to boycott the employers who insisted
upon the reduction. (See Baltimore Republican, July 29, 1833).
Whereas, we view with surprise and indignation the
late coercive measures of certain Master Hatters of this
city, to reduce the prices of the Journeymen 25 per cent
as being replete with evil and injustice, and subversive
of the dearest principles for which our forefathers bled ;
and that no better proof can be adduced of their fallacy
than the fact that a number of those who conduct the
same branch of business, less extensive, have resisted the
measures, and still continue to give the usual prices.
Therefore,
Resolved, that we highly approve the "Appeal" of
the Journeymen Hatters, to their fellow citizens; and
that this meeting earnestly desire them to "stick" in true
faith to the noble resolutions they have adopted.
Resolved, that we look upon the highly creditable
proceedings of the Printers, Taylors, &c. relative to this
subject, as so many links of a chain to perpetual Union.
Resolved, that in the opinion of this meeting the fol-
lowing named Master Hatters- Messrs. J. W. Niles,
G. K. Quail, S. A. Pearce, Hopewell & Pratt, G. & J.
Williamson, Elder & Boston, and Casper Prince, are
entitled to our support and influence, for their stern
resistance to the odious propositions of the combination.
OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS loi
Resolved, that we recommend those Mechanics not
belonging to any association, to hold ward meetings in
aid of those Hatters who have been so unjustly thrown
out of employment.
Resolved, that a subscription book be opened, and
that we will do all in our power to sustain them in the
noble stand they have taken.
Resolved, that the thanks of Mechanics generally,
are due to the diflferent Editors for their promptness
in giving gratuitous publication to our various notices
and proceedings. . .
(2) Statement of the Master Hatters' Association, from the Baltimore
Republican and Advertiser, July 29, 1833, p. 2, col. 6, 7.
To the Public. The association of "Master Hat-
ters" of the city of Baltimore finding themselves pub-
licly and violently assailed, in the most strange and viru-
lent manner; seeing an attempt making by individuals
and associations wholly unprecedented in its character,
to render them contemptible in the public estimation,
hearing their association denounced as oppressive and
tyrannical, and the community invoked to withdraw
their patronage from its members as unworthy of its
continuance; humbly hope under all these circumstan-
ces; that a sufficient apologywill be found for appealing
from the popular prejudice which has been aroused
against them, to the sober, deliberate reflection of their
fellow citizens.
Although much inflammatory declamation has been
published with a view to agitate the public mind and
enlist during the ferment the sympathies of the com-
munity in behalf of (as they have been termed) *'op-
pressed Journeyman Hatters," we believe when pruned
of its exciting verbiage may be fairly condensed so as to
exhibit the following charges. First, the master Hat-
I02 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ters of the city of Baltimore have arrogated the right
to form an association, and combined together for the
purpose of regulating the wages of their workmen:
Secondly, they have in pursuance of a resolve of that
combination, offered an inadequate and unfair compen-
sation.
Touching the first charge, and the intemperate and
novel strictures which have accompanied it, we would
at the outset remark, that whilst the members of our
association are at all times disposed to condemn the ex-
istence of every society created for purposes unsanc-
tioned by the laws, they are not less ready in maintaining
and exercising rights which they enjoy in common with
the rest of their fellow citizens.
It has never been denied by the journeymen Hatters,
that the laws of their association fix the price of their
labour and impose penalties for their violation. If then
it be wrong in the employer to regulate the wages, it
must be equally wrong in the journeymen ; if right in
the journeymen, it must be equally right in the employ-
er, otherwise you bind in shackles, one of the parties,
and place them perfectly defenceless in the hands of the
other, to be dealt with as their avarice and cupidity may
direct.
Our association pretends not to claim exemption from
that common frailty which makes man so often the
dupe of his interest: neither do they admit the existence
of any such association. They therefore believe that
in the regulation of the prices of labour, it is indispen-
sable for their proper and fair establishment, that the
difTferent and conflicting interests which are to be af-
fected thereby, should mutually participate and co-op-
erate; they believe that the mutual checks which the
opposing interests of the parties, will on such occasions
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 103
always put in motion, are as indispensable to a fair
standard of fair prices, as are the checks and balances
of a well organized government, both being essential
to restrain man in his proneness to abuse power when
stimulated by interest.
The only boon we ask in the matter is an equality of
rights; if the journeymen exist as a society, we claim
the same privilege; if they enact laws for the regulation
of the prices of labour, we ask permission to do the
same; we ask not a jot or tittle more, and to ask less
would betoken an absence of that spirit essential
to the maintenance of our public as well as private
rights.
We do not believe that the period has arrived when
it is to be required that the employers of every mechan-
ical business are to surrender to their workmen the ex-
clusive privilege of regulating the wages, without being
permitted to pursue such protective measures as will
secure them against unreasonable exactions. The citi-
zens of Baltimore are now, from the present posture
of things, emphatically called to decide on the fitness
and justness of such a state of things. They are called
to say whether such requirements are consonant with
the public weal, or consistent with any of the known
principles of equity by which all difference of opin-
ion and controversies are settled.
We deem it unnecessary to say anything further in
answer to this charge; but submit it to the sober judg-
ment of the community, leaving them to determine
whether under all the circumstances stated, the bitter
and repeated denunciation directed against our associ-
ation were not (to speak the most charitably of them)
wholly gratuitous and uncalled for.
The next charge is that we have attempted a reduc-
I04 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
tion of twenty-five per cent on a compensation already
unsufficient.
It is certainly a fact that the first intimation of the
insufficiency of our former prices, has reached us,
through the medium of the public prints, and been giv-
en, by persons of mechanical profession, other than our
own; being unable to recollect that the slightest mur-
mur even escaped the lips of any in our employ on the
subject; we would therefore charitably hope that this
is an error into which some of our fellow citizens have
been betrayed by an excess of those warm and generous
feelings, which if not placed under salutary restraint,
often exhibit those subjects to their influence in a light
in no wise enviable.
A single fact is all that is necessary to show that many
of our citizens have been deceived respecting former
prices; various estimates have been made by different
members of our body, one of which (not the most fav-
ourable to ourselves) shews, that nine persons employed
in one establishment from January until July, in the
present year, earned a weekly average amount of ten
dollars and fifty cents, in which average is included
the labour of one or two individuals who, from various
causes, sickness, &c. did not earn more than six or sev-
en dollars weekly, the average time of labour being,
moreover, five days per week.
If we assume as a correct standard the average wages
earned by the different mechanics of our city as a cor-
rect test by which to ascertain the sufficiency or insuffi-
ciency of compensation, it will we think then be found
on a comparison either of past prices or of those recently
proffered, that the compensation is not only fair but
liberal. So conscious were the journeymen of their
ability to earn more than eight dollars per week, that
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 105
they restricted by their laws each manufactory from
the employment of more than one individual at that
price.
When it is considered that our workmen are exempt
from all taxation for the supply of tools, and are not
like many other mechanics, dependent on the weather
for constant employment; that our business is one in
which the dull season of the year is busily spent in pre-
paring for the brisk, we think that eight dollars per
week would be found on comparison more than equal
to the average earnings of the mass of the mechanics of
our city.
It may be well to inform our fellow citizens that the
late bill of prices permits the employer to give as m.uch
more than eight dollars as he may think proper; and in
virtue of that privilege, one of our body proposed to
employ twenty of his former hands at ten dollars per
week, or five hundred dollars annually; others have
offered nine dollars, which have all been uniformly re-
jected. If these offers be insufficient, and those prices
oppressive, then we must confess our entire ignorance
of the meaning of the term.
Much has been said, both publicly and privately, of
the injustice of suddenly reducing labor twenty five per
cent. This (though not the fact as to the average re-
duction) may at the first view of the subject appear
difficult to defend: yet it so happens in the present in-
stance, where the per centage of reduction is greatest
the propriety is most manifest, as will be made evident
by the following statement.
Seventeen cents have been paid for sizing wool bod-
ies; twelve and a half are offered. Now we presume
there is not a man of candor among our workmen who
will not at once confess that sizing sixteen is a perfectly
io6 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
easy day's work; that twenty-four is repeatedly done,
and sometimes thirty; leaving for the smallest number
the very ample compensation of two dollars per day.
Would there not be more injustice in abstracting three
per cent from that man's labor, who earned but one dol-
lar per day, than thirty per cent from that of him who
earned two dollars and seventy-two cents?
We would, therefore, respectfully suggest to our fel-
low citizens, whether in order to arrive at a correct
conclusion, it would not be safer to enquire what are
the wages offered, rather than what is the per centage
taken off. Whilst on this subject it may not be amiss
to state, that owing to the nature of the charges for this
work, hundreds of dollars are annually sent to the
neighbouring towns where it is done at the price we
now offer, the person performing it, furnishing their
own shop, tools, fuel, &c., without additional charge.
Difficulties will be often experienced in establishing
the prices of labor. We believe that reductions in
wages are oftener the result of necessity than of choice:
sometimes forced by competition; sometimes from the
improvements in the methods of labor; sometimes from
a change in the character of the work, and oftener,
probably, by the whole of these causes combined.
That the competition in our city has, during the last
ten years, vastly increased must be manifest; and every
improvement by which the facilities of commercial
communication are increased between Baltimore and
our neighbouring rival cities, bring that competition
nearer to our doors. Unless, therefore we be able to
compete with them, we must look sooner or later to a
partial loss of our trade. This view of the subject,
however worthy of public attention, is not that on which
alone we ground our defence.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 107
We say, unequivocally, that our offers are not only
fair, but liberal, whether compared with the compen-
sation received by mechanics generally, in our city, or
contrasted with that allowed in our business through-
out the Union; and we hold this opinion as amply con-
firmed by the journeymen themselves in the rejection
of the before mentioned offers that have been made
them.
We have no objection to take the average amount of
the work entered on our books as having been per-
formed by our workmen, and deduct, therefrom, the
difference between the old and new prices, and com-
pare the balance with the fair average amount earned
by those who have railed most loudly against our injus-
tice; conscious that they themselves would be surprised
(if a more unpleasant feeling should not predominate,)
at the comparison presented.
The members of our association have, some of them,
been long, and they would not hope unfavourably known
to the Baltimore public. Some are just in the course
of acquiring a reputation, and all, we trust, tenacious
of their standing in the public estimation. They have
therefore felt themselves bound by self respect as well
as by the urgent advices of their friends, to trespass
on the indulgence of the public with this statement;
cherishing the hope that the unnatural excitement
which has been so mysteriously conjured up, may be
allayed, by calling into action the sound sense and sober
reason, the reflection and intelligence of an impartial
community.
Signed by the committee appointed for that purpose,
in behalf of the association.
Peter Leary, Thos. Sappington, Wm. P. Cole.
io8 AxME RICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
(b) THE UNION TRADE SOCIETY
(i) Its Formation, from the Baltimore Republican and Commercial
AAvertiser, Sept. 6, 1833, p. 2, col. 6.
The Convention composed of Delegates from the dif-
ferent branches of mechanical business, to take into
consideration the propriety of forming a Union Trade
Society, met on Wednesday evening, September 4, at
Bailey's Theatre Tavern, pursuant to public notice,
when on motion, Richard Marley, w^as called to the
Chair, Wm. S. M'Cauley, appointed Vice President,
Robt. Rickets, Secretary, and Jno. L. Munroe, Assistant
Secretary.
Delegates from the following Societies then reported,
viz: Cordwainers, Ladies Branch, [5], Coach Mak-
ers, [5], Cabinet Makers, [4], Hatters, [5], Copper,
Tin Plate and Sheet Iron Workers, [5], Tobacconists,
[3], Tailors, [5], Coopers, [5], Blacksmiths, Engin-
eers, and Machinists, [5], Marble Stone Cutters, [5],
Cordwainers, Men's Branch, [5], House Carpenters,
[5], Printers, [5], Chair Makers and Ornamental
Painters, [3], Painters, [i]. [Names of delegates
omitted; number of signatures in brackets.]
The following resolutions were then adopted:
Resolved, unanimously, that this Convention now
form itself into a Union Trade Society.
Resolved, that the present Delegation, and others
intending to join the Society, appoint one from their
own body, as a committee to draft a Constitution and
By-Laws. The following persons were then announced
said Committee: R. Marley, Wm. McPhail, John I.
Johnson, Richard Mills, John Gross, Wm. A. Boyd,
James W. Lowe, James Patterson, John D. Nicholes,
Robert K. Wiley, Wm. L. McCauley, Wm. Caldwell,
Joseph Smith, Jno. H. Tucker, and Lloyd Clarridge.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 109
Resolved, that a Committee of five be appointed to
draft an Address to the Mechanics throughout the City.
J. Jones, J. R. Hayman, Thomas H. Standford, Edward
Barker, and G. W. Walker, were appointed by the Con-
vention.
Resolved, that when the Committee on the Constitu-
tion are prepared to report, they inform the President
of the same, who shall forthwith assemble the Con-
vention. . .
(2) Address to Mechanics, from the Baltimore Republican and Com-
mercial Advertiser, Sept. 12, 1833, p. 2, col. 6.
To the Operative Mechanics of the City of Baltimore.
At a meeting of the Delegates from various mechan-
ical bodies ; it was unanimously resolved to form a Union
Trade Society, composed of representatives from all the
Mechanical Societies of this city, and the undersigned
were appointed to advise you of this resolution, and to
urge you to a participation in the measure.
Were it not for the novelty of the undertaking, it
would be deemed unnecessary to lay before you the ad-
vantages which must suggest themselves to your minds,
as likely to follow the formation of this Union Society,
in contemplating the object it has in view - and in doing
this, they feel a confidence in the justness of their con-
clusions, which lead them to hope their labor will not
be vain. It will be necessary here to premise; that it is
the intent and purpose of the Union Society that dis-
tinct and separate societies be formed by all the mechan-
ics ; and they would urge upon every man to attach him-
self to the society composed of the members of his own
particular calling.
This being the case, and representatives deputed from
each separate society, will meet and form the Union,
which is to be the organ of communication between
1 1 o AM ERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
them, and whose decision shall be final, as far as the
great body of mechanics are concerned, on all ques-
tions and objects which require, for their successful
accomplishment, the united action of mechanics. This
will necessarily beget a community of interest, and
create a perfect and friendly understanding among them,
whereby, it is hoped, a greater respect for themselves
will be engendered, and a highest appreciation of the
standing they occupy in this country awakened.
It cannot but strike every reflecting and observing
man that a spirit unfriendly to the standing and pur-
suits of mechanics, is fast gaining ground in this country,
and which is daily manifesting itself to their disadvan-
tage; it will be the purpose of the Union Society, by
the adoption of such measures as prudence may dictate,
to save mechanics from the more extended operation
of this spirit. The result of which, if not stopped in its
onward course, will be to bring them to a state of serv-
itude less enviable that that of the vassals of the feudal
lords and princes - because they may hold the name but
lose all the rights of freemen.
They cannot but believe that in this they will have
the countenance and friendly aid of every true patriot -
for all experience teaches that by the destruction of the
working class of a free country or a curtailment of their
pursuits, the liberty of the country suffers in the same
ratio.
Curs'd be that land, to lasting ills a prey,
Where wealth accumulates, and men decay;
Princes and lords may flourish or may fade,
A breath can make them as a breath has made:
But the bold workingmen their country's pride
When once destroyed can never be supplied.
It will be the earnest and unceasing desire of the
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 1 1
Union Society to advance the intellectual character of
mechanics -and by encouraging every thing calculated
to better their condition, awaken a confidence in each
other, which by judicious application of their united
efforts will tend to place the working class in the scale
of human society, to which by their industry and use-
fulness, they are justly entitled.
All Mechanical Societies, who have not already sent
delegates to the union convention are requested to do
so -the next meeting of which will be announced in a
few days -when the committee on the Constitution will
report. JoSHUA JONES, J. R. Hayman,
Thos. H. Stanford, Geo. W. Walker.
Baltimore, Sept. lo, 1833.
(c) BALTIMORE TRADES' UNION
(i) Report on Condition and Prospects, from the National Trades'
Union, May 9, 1835, p. 2, col. 4.
Extract from the report of a committee appointed on the part of the
societies composing the union to investigate its concerns and report
on its condition and prospects. They reported its finances ''in a
very flattering condition."
"The past inclement season has been unpropitious
to the working-men generally, yet notwithstanding up-
wards of fifteen associations have regularly contributed,
showing their determination to sustain an institution
that may ultimately be called upon to succor and pro-
tect them. It, like most other similar bodies, has had
to contend with some opposition; its object being wil-
fully misrepresented, and its influence wrongly con-
demned; and if your Committee may digress so far,
(and with feelings of boldness they do in this respect,
knowing they speak the indignant sentiment of the Un-
ion,) without any need of adducing further proof, deny
that the Union has at any time, by principle or action.
112 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
aided or abetted in any-wise, any political scheme or
party; but on the contrary have sufficient evidence to
show their even declining to co-operate in any measure
that might lead to such an issue, and hope this unequiv-
ocal fact, ratified by the Union itself, will forever put
at rest that point. Were your Committee at liberty,
and not restricted by the limits of a report, they would
fully discuss the advantages to be derived from, and
the great necessity of sustaining, an institution like this;
they, therefore, invite a general attention to its past and
present transactions, which augur much for the future,
and there will be found to exist a perfect analogy.
During the brief existence of the Union, few things
of great moment have come before them for their ac-
tion, but your Committee with great satisfaction could
refer you to several important measures, mutually bene-
ficial to all, but leave them for time fully to develop.
This institution, unincorporated, and undisguised in all
its transactions, mutually assists the employer and em-
ployed, in maintaining a steady tariff of wages, which in
all cases corresponds with the exigencies of the times;
nor is there ground, when we look at the average de-
preciation of labor, to suppose that a zeal for self-ag-
grandizement, springing from the power capable of
being wielded by bodies like this, will ever cause the
bounds of reason to be overleaped, and especially in a
community with which our welfare is closely identi-
fied, by extorting an undue remuneration for services,
as it would be utterly at variance with the very 'meas-
ures' we desire to establish. Indeed, so long as can be
preserved unanimity and co-operation among the asso-
ciations composing the Union, it may scarce have a
cause to exercise its protective power. But this argues
nothing in favor of relaxing our energy from apparent
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 113
security, but should rather increase our vigilance that
we may the better be prepared to meet it should a crisis
arrive. Hence such an institution tends to a friendly
alliance in a common cause, and, therefore, the necessity
of maintaining it.
Your Committee, in conclusion, believe they have
sufficiently noticed the affairs of the Union, and made
such general remarks as were requisite to their eluci-
dation, as show a judicious management of its finances,
and the objects of its formation in no manner infringed;
and if the same zealous co-operation of the members
exists as has heretofore, the results will be cheering to
the young, consoling to the aged, an anchor amidst us,
an ark to shelter us from oppression, and a sanctuary
for our "rights and privileges."
(2) Routine Business.
National Trades' Union, Feb. 20, 1836, p. 2, col. 2. Proceedings of a
meeting of the Trades' Union held on February 4, 1836.
Baltimore, Feb. 4, 1836. The Union met this even-
ing at 7 o'clock -President in the chair and a quorum
present.
The Committee of Conference reported an applica-
tion from the Plane Makers' Society, praying to be re-
instated to their former standing in the Union, by pay-
ing all arrearages from the time of their default, and
recommended their admission. The Society was, on
motion, admitted as a member, and reported the fol-
lowing delegates: Marshall L. Meeteer, Charles S.
Moran, William K. Boggus, Richard Taylor, Edwin
Caldwell.
Mr. Robert Bankhead, from the Cordwainers, la-
dies' branch, was reported as a delegate in the place of
William Hissey, resigned.
The following Societies reported that their contribu-
114 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
tions were severally ordered to be doubled, and so con-
tinued whilst the Marble Workers are on the strike;
Carpet Weavers, Typographical Society, Cordwainers,
ladies' branch. Journeymen Tailors' Society.
Mr. George S. Redden, from the Hatters' delegation,
submitted the following preamble, with the accompany-
ing resolution, which were unanimously adopted:
Whereas, there are existing among the inhabitants of all
civil communities, certain absolute and relative rights
and duties, which the harmony and good order of society
demand; and whereas, it is necessary, whenever one
portion of any such community shall feel itself ag-
grieved in consequence of the subversion, or attempted
subversion, of its rights originally conceded, to use all
the pacific, honorable and independent means called for
by the occasion, to frustrate the designs of those who,
for self-aggrandisement, would thus subvert the first
principles of government; and whereas, the editors of
the Trades' Union, Messrs. Bull & Tuttle, having re-
garded the time as arrived, when the operatives of Bal-
timore should arouse themselves from their lethargy,
and assert and maintain their rights, have, at their own
expense and upon their own responsibility, established
a weekly paper in this city, denominated the Baltimore
Trades' Union^ whereby they (the operatives) are en-
abled more efficiently to foil those who would seek to
despoil them of those high and just privileges guaran-
teed to them by the constitution of our state and coun-
try-be it therefore resolved, that the delegates from
the different members comprising this Union be, and
they are hereby requested to lay the subject before the
respective societies which they represent, at their next
monthly or stated meetings, and to urge the appointment
of a Committee by each, whose duty shall be to obtain
subscribers to the Trades' Union paper.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 115
Mr. Wm. Darnes, from the Carpenters' delegation,
moved that so much of the proceedings of the National
Trades' Union as relates to the memorializing Congress
respecting the ten hour system, be taken up for consid-
eration. The memorial of the National Trades' Union
was then read, and on motion of the same gentleman a
Committee of five was appointed, to draft a memorial
to Congress on the same subject, and have 100 copies
printed for the use of the Union. The chair appointed
Messrs. W. Darnes, W. Johnston, F. Gallagher, G. H.
Redden and H. D. Cooper, said Committee.
On motion, the Union then adjourned. By order,
W. Johnston, Secretary.
3. WASHINGTON
(a) ADDRESS TO THE WORKING MEN OF THE
DISTRICT
Extracts from an address published in pamphlet form, Dec, 1835.
Address to the Mechanics of the District of Columbia.
Friends- Fellow- WoRKiNGM en: The Trades'
Union Convention, deem it necessary, in this manner,
to address you -to set forth the nature and objects of the
Union, that you may judge of its utility and the many
advantages to be derived from the Association. . .
The Convention is further urged to come before you,
from the fact, that although the Trades' Union has been
in existence for more than two years in this city, it is
known, comparatively, but by a very small number, and
the purposes of its founders less understood by those
whom it is intended to benefit. This evil, the Conven-
tion wishes to cure, and at the same time, by a plain,
full, and candid expose of their principles and views,
to spread them as wide and openly as possible, that all
who wish to join with them in the righteous work they
have begun, may be induced to come forward, and with
us, receive the just reward of our honest endeavors -
likewise to silence those recreants, who skulk insidiously
among their fellow-workingmen, poisoning their minds
against us, and thus, deprive others from receiving those
benefits that they themselves, by their baseness, are un-
worthy of enjoying- to vindicate our principles from
the foul misconstructions that are given to them, and
the base aspersions of our motives, by those whose in-
terest it is to oppress their fellow men. By so doing,
OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 117
we conceive that we are performing a duty incumbent
upon us for our own welfare, and workingmen in gen-
eral.
Trades' Union, fellow-citizens, is no experiment; its
practicability, and the advantages to be derived from it,
are no longer to be doubted. It has been tried in the
fiery ordeal of persecution, but by its justness, and the
firmness of its advocates, it has escaped thus far un-
scathed. When a union of workingmen was first pro-
posed, it was ridiculed, and its advocates abused- it was
considered by some, who are now among its votaries,
as impossible; it was condemned as dangerous to the
purity and durability of our Republican Institutions,
by those vultures who have so long preyed upon us -its
advocates were branded as disorganizers- the terrors
of sedition; the charge of agrarianism, and all that
could be found to urge against it, in hopes of breaking
it down. But the enemies of equal rights, have been
disappointed in their unjust warfare, and the Union
stands firm and prosperous, increasing daily in expe-
rience, respectability, and power.
[An account of the formation of the New York
Trades' Union is omitted.]
In laying before you the objects of the Union, permit
us to make a few extracts from its Constitution. The
Preamble declares, that.
The Journeymen Mechanics of the different Trades in the Dis-
trict of Columbia, having observed that their brethren in other parts
of the United States, have formed themselves into General Societies,
and that such Unions have been attended with very beneficial effects,
and laboring, themselves, under oppressive customs, such as to deprive
them, in many Trades, of the unalienable right of fixing the prices
of their own labor, have determined to follow the laudable example
set before them, and place themselves in that situation that will free
them from the shackles of unjust and tyrannous exactions, without
1 1 8 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
interfering with the interests or business of others. They have,
therefore, formed themselves into a General Trades' Union, for the
purpose of yielding mutual support and protection to each other.
And Article 12, sets forth that, "The funds of the Convention
shall be appropriated to defray all necessary expenses; to maintain
the present scale of prices to all members who are fairly remunerated ;
to raise up all such as are oppressed ; to alleviate the distresses of those
suffering from want of employment; and to sustain the honor and
interests of the " Union."
Article 13. Each Trade or Art, may represent to the Conven-
tion, through their Delegates, their grievances, who take cognizance
thereof, and decide upon the same.
Article 14. No Trade or Art, striking for higher wages, or
other cause, without the consent of the Convention, will be entitled
to support from the Trades' Union.
. . . Among the first objects which the Union has
taken into consideration, as calling for their united ef-
forts, is the ten-hour system, and an equalization of
wages. These are considered as primary steps to be
gained before others are attempted. Taking into con-
sideration, that we, workingmen, in this country, as a
part, and in fact, the majority of the community, have
a right to claim at least, an equal share of the fruits of
our labor and time to enjoy it- and when it is attempted
to be wrest from us, or denied, to use all fair and honor-
able means to obtain or save it. The advocates of the
Union so consider it, and they know that the condition
of the workingmen can be made much better, without
danger to our free institutions.
The ten-hour system, is one of vital importance to
workingmen, so long as they are free and wish to con-
tinue so. Want of information and ignorance, is the
common cry, always railed against the working class in
this and other countries, whenever the subject of self-
government is brought forward -not by those who wish
to better their condition, but by such, whose interest
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 19
it is to keep them ignorant, who would condemn them
to labor for their benefit, whilst they enjoy it in calm
repose, or forming new schemes, whereby to draw more
from them. Let the ten-hour system be established,
and we have obtained one step to improve our condi-
tion -this will give us time for study and useful re-
flections, and by a few hours, thus afforded, we can gain
much useful knowledge, and be better able to perform
our allotted labor, more to our employers' advantage
and our own. . .
" . . We ask for a universal system of education;
for universal suffrage; for the abolishment of monopo-
lies; for the abolishment of imprisonment for debt; and
for a just representation of all interests. These are the
objects we ask, and all we ask. The charges that are
made against us of agrarianism, and a desire to strip
from the rich the possessions they have acquired, or
which have descended to them by inheritance, is as
false as the spirit is despicable that makes the
charge. . . "
(b) PROCEEDINGS, 1836
National Trades' Union, Feb. 6, 1836, p. 2, col. 2, 3.
Proceedings of Trades' Union Convention of the District of Columbia.
Meeting of Jan. 25.
. . . The following delegates present: Mr. John
G. Robinson from the Carpenters; J. Ray and G.
W. Grant from the Brick-layers; W. S. Russell, T.
Croser and H. O. Whitmore from Cordwainers Ladies'
Branch, and J. P. McKean from Bookbinders. The
following credentials were received: of Messrs. F. J.
Murphy and James Douglass from the Carpenters in
place of Benjamin Harwood and Edward Hamilton;
of Messrs. A. G. Atkinson, Wm. McPhail and Thomas
W. S. Boyd, from the society of Saddlers and Harness
I20 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Makers of the District, together with a notice of the
formation of said Society, and a list of its members.
The several credentials were received, and the dele-
gates invited to take their seats in the Convention. . .
On motion of Mr. Russell, ordered that a committee
of two be appointed by the chair, to wait on Mr. Milo
of Albany, N.Y., and requested him to address the
meeting. The chair appointed Messrs. W. S. Russell
and J. Ray as said committee.
The committee appointed at the last meeting ''to
take into consideration the principles and views set
forth in the address to the mechanics and the expedi-
ency of printing the same," made a favorable report,
and recommended that the address be printed; when,
on motion, resolved that the Secretary be directed to
have 500 copies of the address printed in pamphlet
form, and that he be authorized to draw on the Finance
committee for the cost of the same, and further, re-
solved that the Secretary have the address printed at
the "Mirror office."
Mr. Russell offered the following resolutions which
were adopted. Resolved, that the Secretary commence
a correspondence with all the conventions of which he
may be acquainted with. Resolved, that the proceed-
ings of the convention be sent to the National Trades'
Union, N.Y., for publication monthly.
Mr. McKean offered the following resolution which
was adopted: resolved, that a committee of one from
each Trade be appointed to take into consideration the
expediency of adopting rules and penalties, as respects
the non-attendance of delegates to the meetings of the
convention, and that they report thereon at the next
meeting. On motion, ordered that the committee be
appointed by the convention. The following were nom-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 121
inated and elected as said committee: Messrs. J. G.
Robinson, J. P. McKean, N. G. Nichols, T. Creser,
P. Pearson and A. G. Atkinson. . .
The committee appointed to wait on Mr. Milo, re-
ported that he had consented to address the convention
in a few remarks. Whereupon Mr. Milo was conduct-
ed to the President's chair. He addressed the conven-
tion in a few plain and friendly remarks on Trades'
Unions and the interest of Mechanics. When he had
concluded, on motion, unanimously resolved, that the
thanks of the convention be tendered to Mr. Milo for
his kindness in addressing the convention.
On motion of Mr. Russell it was resolved, that a
committee of three be appointed to wait on Mr. Ely
Moore of N.Y., and invite him to attend the meetings
of the convention, whenever it may be convenient for
him to do so. The following were appointed as com-
mittee: Messrs. W. S. Russell, J. P. McKean and J.
Ray. . . James P. McKean, Sec'y.
National Trades' Union, March 12, 1836, p. 2, col. 4, 5. Meeting of
February 22.
. . . Mr. Robinson, of the Committee that was
appointed at the last meeting to take into consideration
the expediency of adopting rules and penalties, as re-
spects the non-attendance of Delegates to the meetings
of the Convention, reported Articles, which the Com-
mittee deemed most salutary. After considerable de-
bate, and some amendments, the following Preamble
and Articles were adopted:
The Committee to whom was referred the consider-
ation of a resolution adopted at the last meeting of the
Convention, relative to the neglect of its members in
attendance, have duly considered the same, and have
come to the conclusion that it is of the highest import-
122 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ance that each member should attend regular and punc-
tual, the neglect of which shows carelessness towards the
important cause in which we are engaged, neglect of
the duties of the office to which he has been appointed
by his society, and a contempt towards the Convention;
and, therefore, is not worthy of a seat in the Conven-
tion as a delegate. In the opinion of the Committee,
the first and principal step towards making the Union
have weight and respectability with the public, and al-
so with its members, is, the punctual attendance of the
delegates. If the cause in which we are engaged is not
worthy the attention of the representative, then it is
a fair conclusion that it is not worthy the attention of
the public, whose notice it is the delegate's particular
duty to solicit. The meetings of the Convention only
occupy three hours in a month ; if it be not worth that
much time, it must be worth nothing; and he who thinks
so little of it as not to be willing to spare that much of
his time to its concerns, should not be considered worthy
the representative of a society from any branch of me-
chanics. Yet the Committee are convinced that cir-
cumstances may occur that will prevent the most atten-
tive from attending at times; but when it is so constant
and repeatedly the case of non-attendance, it must be
for the want of proper respect for the Union and Con-
vention. The Committee would, therefore, recommend
to the Convention the following as By-Laws, relative
to non-attendance, in addition to such as have been be-
fore agreed on :
Article i. It shall be the duty of the delegates to
attend all meetings of the Convention.
Article ii. Any delegate neglecting to attend a
meeting of the Convention, shall, at the next stated
meeting, be called by the Secretary, after the reading
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 23
of the proceedings, and he shall state the reason of his
non-attendance; and, if a majority of the Convention
are of opinion that the excuse is sufficient, he shall be
excused; if not, it shall be recorded as a neglect of his
duty.
Article hi. Any member absenting himself the
second time in succession, shall be reported to the soci-
ety to which he is a member, in writing, by the Secre-
tary, through one of his colleagues, to be by him laid
before them for their action.
Article IV. Any delegate absenting himself the
third time in succession, shall be considered as having
treated the Convention with contempt, and shall be no
longer worthy or hold a seat therein as a delegate, which
shall be declared by the Chair previous to the adjourn-
ment of the Convention, and entered on the journal by
the Secretary in the following words: "Mr. a
delegate from Society, by neglect of duty in not
attending the meetings of the Convention, has treated
it with contempt; and, therefore, is no longer worthy
a seat therein as a delegate,"
Article v. All proceedings relative to delinquent
members shall be reported to their respective societies,
by the Secretary, through his colleague, previous to the
next meeting of the society to which such delinquent
is a member.
Article VI. Nothing contained in the foregoing
rules shall be so construed as to preclude the right of
appeal to all delegates who may be affected by its en-
forcement. Appeals may be made verbal or in writ-
ing, and decided by ballot.
J. G. Robinson, N. G. Nicholls, J. P. McKean,
T. Creaser, p. M. Pearson, Committee.
Mr. Russell, of the Invitation Committee, reported
124 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
that they had waited on Mr. Ely Moore, according to
the resolution, and he had accepted the invitation, and
would attend the meetings whenever it was convenient
for him so to do.
Mr. McKean reported that the addresses he was in-
structed to have printed were now on the Secretary's
table, and moved that they be distributed in the follow-
ing manner, viz: to each member of the Union two
copies, and each delegate ten, which was agreed to. On
motion of Mr. Russell, it was resolved, that five copies
of the address be sent to each Convention with which
we are acquainted.
Pennsylvanian, March 2, 1836, p. 2, col. 6. Also in National Trades'
Union, March 19, 1836, p. 2, col. 3. Meeting of February 24.
. . . Credentials were received from the Trade
Society of Philadelphia, appointing John G. Donald-
son and Isaac Abel, delegates to solicit and receive aid
for their Trades' support. The delegation stated the
object of their visit in a very plain and brief manner.
The following resolution was offered by Mr. Bond:
resolved, that the unappropriated funds now in the
Treasury be appropriated to aid the Bookbinders of
Philadelphia, now on a strike, which was unanimously
adopted.
On motion of Mr. Maguire, a committee was ap-
pointed consisting of one from each trade, with per-
mission to retire for a few minutes, to draft resolutions
expressive of our views relating to their just strike.
The committee returned and reported the following:
whereas, this Convention having received a note from
the Philadelphia Trades' Union, of a Committee from
the Bookbinders of that city, and now on a strike,
recommending them to our favorable consideration, and
as we have been informed of the particulars of said
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 125
Strike, by the committee, and by printed statements -
therefore, be it resolved, that we applaud the Journey-
men Bookbinders of Philadelphia, for their determined
stand against the unjust measures that have been
brought against them by their employers. Resolved,
that we consider it a matter of principle, involving the
most sacred rights of mechanics in general, and not con-
fined to a portion only; for if one set of employers suc-
ceed in coercing their workmen into such measures as
they please to dictate and insist on, in the plentitude of
their power, the same will be followed by the others,
and thus will the journeymen be compelled to bend
their necks in humble submission to their lordly mas-
ters. Resolved, that we consider the course that has
been pursued by the Employing Bookbinders of Phila-
delphia towards the Journeymen, as illiberal, unjust
and ungentlemanly, and that their combining together
to starve the journeymen into submission at this inclem-
ent season of the year, is palpably mean and contempt-
ible. Resolved, that there be a committee of one from
each trade appointed for the purpose of soliciting fur-
ther contributions.
Mr. Ray offered the following resolution, which was
adopted : resolved, that the Treasurer be and is hereby
authorized to pay to the delegation of Bookbinders
from Philadelphia, the sum appropriated to the support
of the strike of the Bookbinders of that city.
On motion of Mr. McKain, it was resolved, that a
Committee of three be appointed to present Mr. Eli
Moore the memorial now in the possession of the Con-
vention, praying for the reduction of hours of labor on
the public works in the United States. The committee
consist of Mr. McKain, Mr. Ray, and Mr. Robin-
son. . . W. S. Russell, Sec'y-
126 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
National Trades' Union, April 2, 1836, p. 3, col. 3. Meeting of March
. . . The Credentials of Mr. T. Mitchell were re-
ceived and accepted as Delegates from the Ladies'
branch of Cordwainers, in place of Walter Russell, re-
signed. The Reports of the Finance Committee and
Treasurer, were received and approved. The Corre-
sponding Secretary laid before the Convention a letter
from the Trades' Union of Newark. Mr. J. Halliday
was nominated and elected an individual member of the
Convention. The Convention then went into an elec-
tion of Recording Secretary. . .
The following resolution was offered by Mr. Cun-
ningham: resolved, that a Committee be appointed to
take into consideration the late decision of Judge Sav-
age, in the case of the Cordwainers of Geneva, and that
they report their views of the subject, and give an ex-
pose of this Convention's convictions and determina-
tion of opposing all such partial and unjust decision,
and that they report at large. Whereupon, a warm and
animated debate arose on the latter clause. Mr. Mc-
Guin moved to strike out the latter part of the resolu-
tion. The resolution as thus amended was adopted.
On motion, the Committee to consist of six, and to be
appointed by the chair. The following were appointed
as said committee: J. P. McKean, A. F. Cunningham,
T. Mitchell, A. G. Atkinson, J. C. McGuin, and P.
W. Pearsons. On motion, the Convention adjourned.
J. P. McKean, acting Rec. Sec'y.
Wash'tngtonian, May 26, 1836, p. 3, co!. 3. Meeting of May 23.
. . . It being the first regular meeting of a new
constitutional year, the Convention v/as organized by
Mr. Bond being called to take the chair, and J. P.
McKean, as acting Secretary.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 127
The credentials of the delegates were presented in or-
der, as the different trades were called belonging to the
Union, after which, on motion, the Convention proceed-
ed to the election of officers for the ensuing year, when
the following persons were duly elected. Mr. J. G.
Robinson, President'^ Mr. W. Bond, Vice President \
and, ex officio, Chairman Finance Committee'^ Mr. B.
B. Russell, Recording Secretary, Mr. J. P. McKean,
Corresponding Secretary, Mr. P. M. Pearson, Treas-
urer] Mr. James Douglass, Mr. Wm. Mitchell, Mr.
J. C. McGuire, Mr. T. W. S. Boyd, Members Finance
Committee. . .
National Laborer, June n, 1836, p. 47, col. 4. Meeting of May 30.
. . . The Corresponding Secretary then read a
letter from the Trades' Union of Cincinnati, stating
that they had organized a Union, consisting of four-
teen Trades, numbering about seven hundred names;
also a letter from the Corresponding Secretary of Louis-
ville, Kentucky, informing the Convention that they
had formed a Union, and that a procession of Trades
was contemplated.
The Corresponding Secretary reported that he had
inquired of the different presses as to the terms on which
they would publish the proceedings of this Convention,
and stated that Mr. Cunningham, the editor of the
Washingtonian, would insert the same on as reasonable
terms as any other paper in the city; whereupon he
offered the following: resolved, that the proceedings
of this body be published in the Washingtonian, and
that the Corresponding Secretary be authorized to pro-
cure a sufficient number of copies to forward to the
different Trades' Unions. Resolved, that the Dele-
gates be requested to use their best exertions to for-
128 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ward the interest and increase the subscription list of
the IVashingtonian.
Mr. Gholson, from the Committee appointed to
memorialize Congress on the subject of Penitentiary
labour, reported at length. The memorial being read,
was, on motion, laid on the table for this evening.
Mr. Cunningham offered the following resolution,
which was adopted. Resolved, that this Convention
recommend to their different Trades to have a cele-
bration on the fourth day of July next, and that the
Delegates inform them that the Rev. Theophilus Fisk
will deliver an address on the occasion. . .
Mr. Mitchell nominated J. M. Cuyler to become an
individual member of the Trades' Union, which was
rejected on a constitutional ground, as being a member
of a Trade which was represented in this Convention.
A preamble and resolutions offered by Mr. Gholson,
approbatory of the remarks of the Hon. Ely Moore,
lately delivered in the House of Representatives, in de-
fence of the Mechanics and Workingmen, were unani-
mously adopted, and ordered to be printed. On mo-
tion, it was ordered that the Corresponding Secretary
cause a copy of said preamble and resolution to be for-
warded to Mr. Moore. . . B. B. Russell, Secretary.
IVashingtonian^ June 30, 1836, p. 3, col. 2. Meeting of June 27.
. . . A communication was received from the
United Trade Society of Journeymen Cordwainers, of
Georgetown; and one from the Bakers Benefit Soci-
ety, of Washington, stating that they had elected Dele-
gates to represent their Trades in the Convention, who
presented their credentials, and took their seats. The
chairman of the Finance Committee made his monthly
report. The Corresponding Secretary, who had been
some evenings previous authorized to have a report up-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 29
on the late decision of Judge Savage published in one
of the city papers reported, that Mr. Cunningham
would publish said report in the Washingtonian, pro-
vided the Convention will order an extra number of
copies, whereupon the following resolution was adopt-
ed: resolved, that the Corresponding Secretary be,
and he is hereby, authorized to have the report pub-
lished in an extra Washingtonian, provided it can be
done on the same terms as the paper is now issued.
The Corresponding Secretary reported the receipt
of the first number of a paper published in Cincinnati,
entitled the Working Mans Friend. The Committee
appointed at the last meeting of the Convention, to
confer with the Committee of Mechanics who proposed
burning the effigy of Judge Edwards, reported that
they had held said Conference, and that the Committee
on the part of that meeting accede to the request of
this Convention, to desist from that proceeding.
The following resolution ofifered by Mr. Edmonston
was adopted. Resolved, that a Committee of Eight
(one from each Trade,) be appointed to revise the Con-
stitution, and prepare Rules of Order for the Govern-
ment of this Trades' Union. The members appointed a
committee agreeable to this resolution, are -Messrs.
M'Kean, Robinson, Russell, Jeffries, M'Phail, Ray,
Bond, and Clarke.
Mr. R. Burch offered his resignation as a Delegate
of this Convention, and it was accepted. The letter
of withdrawal, from Mr. A. F. Cunningham, which
was received at a previous meeting and laid on the ta-
ble, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. M'Phail a
Committee was appointed to confer with him on the
same. Mr. Ray offered the following resolution, which
was adopted: resolved, that although Mr. A. F. Cun-
I30 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ningham has tendered his withdrawal to this body, no
doubt from wounded feelings, because of unfounded
remarks and opinions of a few inconsiderate individ-
uals; yet, be it known, that we, the members of this
Convention, feel under many obligations to him, for the
interest he has manifested in the cause of the Working
Men; and that we deprecate a separation of Mr. Cun-
ningham from our Union, and that we cannot too high-
ly appreciate his labors amongst us. On motion the
letter was again laid on the table. . .
B. B. Russell, Secretary.
Washingtonian, July 29, 1836, p. 4, col. i. Meeting of July 25.
. . . A communication was received from the so-
ciety of Cordwainers, of Alexandria, stating that they
had elected the following persons as delegates to the
Convention: Messrs. Julias G. Swain, George L.
Deeton, and Henry Tarlton, and with a list of mem-
bers. Credentials of Mr. Silas Moore, from the Car-
penters, in place of Mr. Remigus Burch, resigned;
also, the credentials of Mr. Richard Loane, from the
United Trade Society, of Cordwainers of Georgetown,
in place of Mr. Peter CrouU, resigned. The several
credentials were accepted, and the delegates took their
seats. . .
The Corresponding Secretary read a letter from the
Corresponding Secretary of the Trades Union, of
Louisville, Kentucky, repeating the substance of a for-
mer communication, proposing a "Consolidated Union
of Unions." He also laid before the Convention the
resignation of Mr. Russell as Recording Secretary,
which, on motion, was accepted. The chairman of
the committee to revise the Constitution, and propose
rules of order, reported progress.
Mr. Ray offered a preamble and resolutions in honor
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 131
of the memory of James Madison, late ex-president of
the United States -which was read, and laid on the
table. The following preamble and resolution was of-
fered by Mr. P. M. Pearson, and adopted: Whereas,
frequent inconvenience has been experienced by the
Convention, by the non-attendance of the chairmen of
the different committees and other officers of the Con-
vention, therefore resolved, that any committee, or other
officer of the Convention, having charge of any busi-
ness necessary to be acted on at the regular stated meet-
ing of the Convention, failing to attend to the discharge
of said duties by a regular report at the time appointed,
be considered as guilty of gross neglect of duty, and
manifesting a coolness in the cause of working men,
highly to be reprobated.
Resolved, that the Recording Secretary be, and is
hereby directed, to procure a roll book for the use of
the Convention. . .
J. P. M'Kean, Rec. Sec'y pro tem.
JVashingtonian, Aug. 26, 1836, p. 3, col. i, 2. Meeting of August 18.
A special meeting of the Convention was held this
evening, to take into consideration an invitation from
the Union Literary and Debating Society to the Pres-
ident and members of the Trades Union to attend
the delivery of an Eulogy on the life and character of
James Madison, on Monday evening, 22d instant. The
Convention being called to order, and a quorum being
present, the President stated the object of the meeting.
The letter of invitation and answer was then read by
the Secretary. Mr. Mitchell moved that the invitation
be accepted. The motion gave rise to considerable de-
bate, on the ground of interfering with important busi-
ness of the Convention, to be taken up at the regular
meeting, notice being given that business of moment
132 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
would be laid before the Convention, at that time, by
the Ladies Branch of Cordwainers of the city. Mr.
Pearson moved to lay the motion to accept the invita-
tion on the table, which was decided in the affirmative.
Mr. Pearson then moved that when the Convention
adjourns, it adjourn to meet on Saturday evening next-
which motion was debated and negatived. On motion
of Mr. Pearson, the question of accepting the invita-
tion was again taken up for consideration, which was
further debated. Mr. Pearson offered the following
resolution : resolved, that the hour of meeting on Mon-
day evening next, 22d inst. be at half past six o'clock.
Mr. Ray moved to strike out all after the word resolved,
and insert, That the Convention will meet to do bus-
iness on Saturday evening next, at 7 o'clock.
The President decided the motion to be out of order,
being similar to a motion negatived by the Conven-
tion, which cannot be again renewed. Mr. Ray ap-
pealed from the decision -and the question was put,
shall the decision of the chair be reversed; which was
decided in the negative. Mr. Moore moved to lay the
resolution on the table, which was rejected. The ques-
tion was called for on the adoption of the resolution
to meet at half past six o'clock, and passed in the affirm-
ative. The motion was again renewed to accept the
invitation, which, after debate, was passed in the affirm-
ative. On motion of Mr. Pearson, ordered that the
Secretary request the members of the Union to attend
the meeting of the Convention on Monday evening
next.
On motion of Mr. Goldson, resolved, that a Com-
mittee of Conference be appointed, to consist of three
members, to confer with the Ladies Branch of Cord-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 133
wainers, on the subject of their present grievances. On
motion, the committee was appointed by the Conven-
tion, and the following were elected to constitute said
committee: Messrs. Ray, Moore and Bond.
Mr. Pearson offered the following resolution, which
was accepted -resolved, that the Corresponding Sec-
retary be, and is hereby requested to communicate with
the Trades Union of Philadelphia, for the purpose of
ascertaining whether there has not been an effort made
recently by some of the employing Bricklayers of this
city to induce Journeymen Bricklayers to come here
to work; and if so, to request them to refrain from com-
ing, as the Bricklayers believe there are enough to do
the work, and they also believe the intention to be to
keep down, and, perhaps, to reduce wages. . .
James P. M'Kean, Sec'y pro tern.
Washingtonian, Aug. 29, 1836, p. 3, col. 2, 3. Mcering of August 22.
. . . The following credentials were presented
and accepted: credentials of Messrs. Thomas L. John-
son, and J. H. Newman, from the Cordwainer's So-
ciety, of Georgetown, in place of Wm. Jeffries and
Richard Loane, resigned; and the credentials of Mr.
Wm. Bond, from Cordwainers, Men's Branch, cer-
tifying his re-appointment as delegate. The creden-
tials were accepted and the delegates took their seats
in the Convention. . .
The committee to confer with the delegates from
Cordwainers, Ladies Branch, submitted the following
report and resolution: the committee appointed to con-
fer with the delegates from the Ladies' Branch of Cord-
wainers of this city beg leave to report- that we have
examined the list of prices and, also, the additions that
are proposed to be made, and from the best information
134 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
we are able to arrive at, (and we believe we are correct-
ly informed,) the advance proposed will not exceed
twelve and a half cents on any single job, the advance
being from two and a half to twelve and a half cents on
particular jobs of work, and about sixteen per cent on
the dollar. The average earnings of men upon this
work, at the advance proposed will be, about ten dollars
per week, or one dollar and fifty cents per day. Your
committee are, therefore, of an opinion that the advance
proposed is not unreasonable, and that the compensa-
tion for labor in this case is nothing more than every
mechanic is entitled to, and ought to receive.
J. Ray, S. Moore, Wm. Bond - Committee.
Resolved, that the Ladies Branch of Cordwainers
of this city hereby have the consent of this Convention
to strike, if they think proper; and that this Trades
Union will do all in their power to sustain them in their
efforts as proposed in the report of the Committee of
Conference.
Mr. Nichols moved that the report be accepted,
which, after debate, was adopted. Mr. Pearson moved
to adopt the resolution proposed by the committee -
and the question being taken on its adoption, was de-
cided in the affirmative. . .
Mr. Gholson offered the following resolution. Re-
solved, that this Convention recommend to those per-
sons engaged on the Men's Branch (of Cordwainers,)
who are working for employers that refuse to sign the
list of prices, on the part of the Ladies' Branch, to cease
working, in order to assist them in obtaining the object
of their strike. The resolution was debated, and, on mo-
tion of Mr. Ray, it was laid on the table.
On motion of Mr. Moore, the Convention adjourned,
to attend the Eulogy on the life and character of James
Madison. JAMES P. M'Kean, Sec'y.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 135
Washingtonian, Oct. i, 1836, p. 2, col. 3 ; p. 3, col. i, 2. Meeting of
September 26.
. . . Mr. Walter L. Penn presented his creden-
tials as a delegate from the "Washington Benevolent
Society of Journeymen Cordwainers," in place of Chris-
topher Spence, resigned, and took his seat. A letter
from Mr. A. F. Cunningham, giving his reasons for
withdrawing from the Convention, was read, and, with
a letter from a committee to him, ordered to be pub-
lished.
The delegation from the Men's Branch of Cordwain-
ers brought before the Convention a new List of Prices,
adopted by their Society, and asked the consent of the
Convention to them, which was referred to a commit-
tee, who made the following report:
The Committee appointed to confer with the dele-
gation of Men's Branch of Cordwainers, beg leave to
report, that from all the information they could receive
on the subject, and from the fact asserted, that the in-
crease of the List of Prices will not allow more t4ian
eight dollars per week, on the ten hour system, would
beg leave to submit the following resolution: resolved,
that the Men's Branch of Cordwainers attached to this
Convention, have the consent of this Convention to
strike, if their demands be not complied with.
P. M. Pearson, James Douglas
Thomas S. W. Boyd, Samuel Goldson.
The resolution, after some explanations from the
Cordwainers delegation, was adopted.
Mr. Wm. Bury, on behalf of the members of the late
Society of Metal Workers, tendered to the Convention
five dollars, the amount of their treasury at the time of
their dissolution, which was accepted, and a committee
appointed to acknowledge the donation.
Mr. Douglas offered the following, which was unan-
136 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
imously adopted: Resolved, that the Corresponding
Secretary of this Convention be requested to communi-
cate, in his next monthly correspondence with the dif-
ferent Trades Unions, the opinion of this Convention of
the utility and propriety of voting for such Legislators
in their States, and members of Congress only, who are
known to be favorable, or will pledge themselves to ad-
vance and defend the Working Man's rights, and en-
deavor to remove those difficulties that now so much
oppress them.
The following resolution was adopted: resolved, that
there be a committee appointed from this Convention,
to consist of three, to prepare a memorial, to be pre-
sented to the City Council, asking the repeal of the
"Hundred Dollar Law." Committee - Messrs. Moore,
Nichols, and Penn.
On motion of Mr. Moore, a committee was appointed
to report (at an adjourned meeting to be held on Fri-
day) upon the practicability of sending a delegate to
the National Trades Union, to meet in Philadelphia,
on the fourth Monday in October, agreeably to the re-
quest of the officers of that body. . .
Mr. Goldson offered a preamble and resolutions
averse to the employment of convicts in the peniten-
tiary in the mechanical arts, which were read and laid
on the table, and the Convention adjourned to Friday
evening.
Washingtonian, Oct. 13, 1836, p. 2, col. i. Meeting of September 30.
The Convention met- roll called -five trades repre-
sented. Minutes of last meeting read, and approved.
Mr. McKean, from the committee to whom was re-
ferred the subject of appointing Delegates to the "Na-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 137
tional Trades Union," to meet in the City of Philadel-
phia, on the fourth Monday of October next, made a
report, recommending the sending of Delegates to rep-
resent this Convention. The report was read and adopt-
ed, and on motion of Mr. Ray, the election of Delegates
was postponed until Thursday, 13th of October.
On motion of Mr. Goldson, a committee, consisting
of Messrs. McKean, Douglas, and Ray, was appointed
by the Convention, to confer with the Cordwainer's Del-
egation of Georgetown, on matters to be laid before the
Convention. Mr. Russell was also added to the com-
mittee.
After some time spent in consultation, the following re-
port was made: the Committee to confer with the Dele-
gates of the Cordwainers of Georgetown, beg leave to
report that they have held a conference with them, and
that they propose to increase the price of the articles
of their work to the old List of Prices, as adopted by
the Cordwainers of this city, with a few exceptions,
which they have increased from three and a half to six
and a quarter cents, on ladies work, and on men's work
the increase on one article of the old prices of this city
nine cents- adopting in all other respects the old list.
Your Committee therefore do not hesitate to recom-
mend the following resolution to the Convention: re-
solved, that this Convention sanction the List of Prices
of the Cordwainers of Georgetown, as adopted, and
consider them as reasonable and just.
J. P. McKean, James Douglas, Josiah Ray,
B. B. Russell- Committee.
The report and resolution were read, and adopted,
and the Convention adjourned until Thursday, the 13th
of October next.
138 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
IVashingtonian and Farmers, Mechanics and Merchants Gazette, De&
17, 1836, p. 2, col, I. Meeting of October 24.
The Convention was called to order, and the roll
called- five trades in attendance.
After the proceedings of the last meeting were read,
a communication was laid before the Convention, from
the Cordwainers of Alexandria, notifying they had
formed the two Societies (Ladies and Mens' Branches)
into one, and appointed, Messrs. Joseph Ford, Julius
G. Swain, and Henry Tarlton, to represent the United
Society in this Convention. Mr. McKean moved to
lay the credentials on the table. Lost. On motion the
credentials were then received. Credentials were pre-
sented, of P. Crowl, in place of John H. Newman,
(Cordwainers, Georgetown) and of William Powell,
in place of William Bond, (Mens Branch, Cordwain-
ers, Washington city,) which were received, and the
Delegates took their seats.
The following persons were proposed as "individual
members:" by Mr. McKean -George Venable; by Mr.
Nichols -Robert Coltman; by Mr. Mitchell- J. M.
Keller-who were balloted for and elected. . .
The Committee appointed to draft a memorial, to be
presented to the City Council, asking a change in the
present qualification of Voters, and the repeal of the
"Hundred Dollar Law," made a report, which was
read. Mr. McGuire moved it be laid on the table.
Lost. On motion the sum of "Twenty-five Dollars" was
inserted in lieu of "One Hundred" and the report, as
amended, agreed to. And Messrs. Moore, McKean,
and Ray, were appointed to present the memorial.
Resignations were received, and accepted of- Geo.
C. Grant- Bricklayers Society; Samuel Goldson-
Cordwainers, Georgetown. . .
JAS. F. Haliday, Sec'y.
4. ALBANY
(a) ACTION OF THE SADDLERS AND HARNESS-
MAKERS
National Trades' Union, Jan. 31, 1835, p. 2, col. 3.
Proceedings of a meeting of saddlers and harness-makers on January
14, 1835. Another meeting of saddlers and harness-makers, to which
other trades were invited, was held on February 3, 1835.
. . . The object of the meeting was explained by
the President, who in forcible terms recommended the
necessity and importance of forming a Trades' Union
in this city, Troy, Schenectady, and the towns in their
vicinities, and proposed the reading of the Constitution
and By-Laws of the "General Trades' Union of the
city of New- York," and the "Address of the Hon. Ely
Moore," Member of Congress elect, and President of
the Union, at the Chatham Street Chapel, December
2, 1833, containing a full and satisfactory explanation of
the objects and principles of the Trades' Union, and a
refutation of the calumnies propagated by its enemies.
The said Constitution, By-Laws, and Address were
thereupon read.
Resolved, that the Saddlers and Harness Makers
Society of Albany approve of the principles upon which
the Constitution and By-Laws of the "General Trades'
Union" are founded -that the Address of the Hon. Ely
Moore meets our warmest approbation -his well direct-
ed talents command our highest respect, and for his
exertions in behalf of the rights and interests of the
mechanic, he is entitled to our lasting gratitude.
On motion of Andrew Deitz, resolved, that the mem-
bers of the "Saddlers and Harness Makers Society of
Albany" do hereby attach themselves to the "General
I40 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
Trades' Union of New York," until a Union of the
Trades' may be formed in this section of the State. . .
The following persons were appointed delegates to
the Union -William Palmer, Walter Whitney, Elijah
A. McChesney.
On motion of Mr. Ostrander, resolved, that Walter
R. Erwin, John McMickin, and Charles W. Mink, be
a Committee to wait upon Messrs. Moore, Carr, and
other distinguished friends of the Trades' Union, and
the officers of the mechanic associations in the city, and
invite their attendance at the next meeting of the Soci-
ety.
On motion of Mr. Erwin, resolved, that the 6th Art.
of the By-Laws of the "General Trades' Union" in the
words following, to wit -"No religious, irreligious, or
partizan proposition shall be discussed," be entered on
the minutes of the society, and adopted.
Mr. McAllister gave notice that at the next meeting
of the Society, he would move that a Committee be ap-
pointed to draft a Constitution and By-laws. . .
Walter R. Erwin, President
Matthew Ostr^^nder, Vice President
Andrew Deitz, Secretary.
(b) CALL FOR A CONVENTION
National Trades' Union, Feb. 21, 1835, p. 2, col. 3, 4.
Circular. Sir -At a meeting of the officers and
members of the organized societies of the city of Al-
bany, held at the Exchange Cofifee House, on the 21st
inst., the following resolution was adopted:
"Resolved, that a committee, consisting of one from
each organized society, be appointed to prepare a cir-
cular to be addressed to the mechanics of the city of
Albany, and its vicinity, for the purpose of consulting
OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 143
on the propriety of forming a General Trades' Union."
The Committee would, therefore, in pursuance of their
instructions, recommend that a meeting of delegates be
held on Wednesday, the nth day of February next, at
2 o'clock in the afternoon, at the Exchange Cofifee
House, South Market-street, Albany.
Your aid, therefore, is most earnestly solicited in the
furtherance of the above object. The committee would
respectfully, but at the same time urgently, solicit your
assistance in inducing such societies as are now organ-
ized, to hold meetings, and to appoint three delegates
each, to represent them in convention, at the time and
place above specified.
We would also beg leave to solicit your friendly co-
operation, in urging upon such mechanics as are not
organized to form societies forthwith, and send dele-
gates as above recommended.
Committee -Fainters, FRANCIS MiLO; Saddlers and
Harness Makers, W. R. Erwin; Taylors, A. HOOG-
hirk; Coach Makers and Trimmers, H. E. Brower;
Cordwainers, E. Treyhern; Printers, Geo. Vance.
Albany, Jan. 21, 1835.
(c) PRELIMINARY MEETING
National Trades' Union, Feb. 21, 1835, p. 2, col. 3, 4.
Proceedings of a meeting of delegates from the "mechanic associations"
of Albany and its vicinity, on Feb. 11, 12, 1835, for the purpose
of forming a General Trades' Union.
[February ii] . . . The meeting was organ-
ized by appointing Walter R. Erwin, Chairman, and
John Hurdis, Secretary. The Chairman briefly stated
the object of the meeting, after which the delegates
presented their credentials.
Names of Delegates: Albany- Francis Milo,
John Hurdis, David C. HsLwley- Painters ; Erastus Gib-
144 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
bons, Amaziah Whitney, William Bell -House Car-
penters; William H. Mink, William Reaves, James
Neshitt-Ship Carpenters', Abraham Hoogkirk, Wil-
liam H. Baldwin, Henry Dogherty- T^/Zorj; John
Strebeck, Hiram Carmichael, Enos Trayhern- Co r</-
wainers] George Sanford, Daniel Van Valkenburgh,
George L. Ma.nin- Silver Platers; Henry Waterman,
Stephen Harris, Charles Dubois - Founders, Machin-
ists, and Millwrights; James Lonergan, Owen Madden,
Henry Fitzsimmons-»S/on^ Masons; Walter R. Erwin,
Andrew Deitz, John M'Mikin-iS'<3^<^/^r^ and Harness
Makers.
Schenectady -John Stewart, John F. Brandt, Jo-
seph ShuTtlefi - Cor dwainers ; William Cameron, Peter
Lamb, Nathaniel Clark- Carpenters.
Troy -J. P. Bartlett, D. Leonard, William Donald-
son- Taylors.
The names of the delegates were then called, and
[they were] admitted unanimously to seats in the con-
vention.
The Hon. Ely Moore, being present, was called upon
to give a brief history of the rise and progress of the
Trades' Unions in the city of New York, and other plac-
es, with which he kindly complied. He was followed
by the Hon. Mr. Carr, with much spirit and efifect.
The following resolution was ofifered: resolved, that
a committee of one from each Society represented, be
appointed to draft a Constitution and By-Laws for the
General Trades' Union of the city of Albany, and its
vicinity. . .
Thursday, Feb. 12. . . The committee appointed
to draft a Constitution and By-Laws made their report,
which was adopted by the Convention. . .
Afternoon Session. The meeting being organized,
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 145
proceeded to the election of officers for the ensuing
year, which resulted as follows: Andrew Deitz, Pres-
ident^ William Cameron, Vice-President^ Hiram Car-
michael. Recording Secretary^ Walter R. Erwin, Cor-
responding Secretary^ Erastus Gibbons, Treasurer'^ Fi-
nance Commi7/^^-William Cameron, Chairman^
John Streback, Joseph Shurtlifif, J. P. Bartlett, Charles
Dubois, George Sanford, and Abraham Hooghirk.
The following resolution was submitted, and adopted
by acclamation: resolved, that the thanks of the Con-
vention be tendered to the Hon. Messrs. Moore and
Carr, for their unremitting exertions, and indefatigable
zeal in promoting the best interests of mechanics.
Resolved, that the proceedings of this Convention
be published in the National Trades' Union. . . The
proceedings throughout exhibited the most cheering as-
pect to the friends of equal rights, and augurs well for
the future strength and stability of the institution. The
most perfect harmony and unanimity of sentiment per-
vaded the whole proceedings.
(d) PROCEEDINGS OF THE TRADES' UNION, 1835-1836
National Trades' Union, April i8, 1835, p. 2, col. 2.
[Albany, March ii ^] . . . The following per-
sons then presented their credentials: Eli Lock, James
H. Gardner, and Daniel Sweney, from the Brush Mak-
ers and Finishers' Society of Lansinburgh and Troy;
John Holady, Daniel Hudson, and Peter Buchanan,
^National Trades' Union, March 14, 1835, says of this meeting: "The
first society organized there [at Albany] was about the middle of January.
On the nth February, twelve societies convened and formed themselves into
a Union. At the meeting now spoken of, it was expected there would be about
twenty-four societies represented. . . It is highly gratifying further to
learn that the utmost harmony and good feelings prevail ; and there appears
a general desire, and a determination to pursue measures calculated perma-
nently to promote the interests and welfare of Mechanics." - Eds.
146 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
from the Tanners and Curriers' Society of Schenectady;
John O. Comstock, from the Hatters' Society of Schen-
ectady. The credentials were read and approved, and
a Committee appointed to invite the new Delegates to
take their seats. . .
Resolved, that the Delegates to the Trades' Union
of Albany and its vicinity, take the sense of their re-
spective Societies on the propriety of the Union pro-
curing a suitable room for the meetings of the Trades'
Union; also, the meetings of the mechanic societies at-
tached to the Trades' Union.
[April 8] ... On motion of Mr. Milo, of the
Painters' Society, resolved that a Committee be appoint-
ed to wait on the Hon. Ely Moore, President of the
Trades' Union of the city of New York, and invite him
to attend the convention this evening. Resolved, that
Mr. Milo, of the Painters' Society, and Mr. Whitney,
of the Carpenters' Society, constitute the Committee
of invitation. On motion of Mr. Whitney, resolved,
unanimously, that a vote of thanks be tendered to the
Hon. Ely Moore, by the Trades' Union of Albany and
its vicinity, for his firm and unceasing endeavors to pro-
mote the welfare of mechanics.
On motion of Mr. Carmichael, resolved, that all re-
ports to the convention hereafter, be made in writing.
On motion of Mr. Hardes, resolved, that the first ar-
ticle of the By-laws be amended, and read, That the
hours of meeting of this convention shall be from
the loth of October to the loth March, at 3 o'clock,
p.m., and from the i8th March, to the loth of Oc-
tober, at 4 o'clock, p.m. On motion of Mr. Erwin,
resolved, that it be a standing rule of this convention,
that the proceedings of all the meetings hereafter, be
reported to the National Trades' Union, by the Record-
ing Secretary, for publication.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 147
The Committee of invitation to wait on Mr. Moore
announced their return, and that Mr. Moore accepted
the invitation from the Trades' Union of Albany and
its vicinity. The President instructed the Committee
to conduct Mr. Moore to take a seat with him in the
chair, and then informed him, that a vote of thanks had
passed this convention to him, for his exertions to pro-
mote the interests of mechanics. Mr. Moore, in a brief
and feeling manner, thanked his fellow mechanics of
Albany and its vicinity, for the confidence they re-
posed in him, and for the mark of friendship tendered
by the convention.
On motion of Mr. Erwin, of the Saddlers' Society,
resolved, that the members of this convention appre-
ciate the benefits rendered to the just cause of the me-
chanics, by the indefatigable exertions of the National
Trades' Union, published in the city of New York.
Resolved, that this convention consider the National
Trades' Union the mechanics' devoted organ and advo-
cate. Resolved, that the delegates of the Albany Trades'
Union, will exercise their influence with their respect-
ive Societies to sustain, as far as in their power, the Na-
tional Trades' Union, published in the city of New
York, so long as it continues to support and defend the
honor and just rights of the mechanics. . .
National Trades' Union, May 23, 1835, p. 2, col. 4.
[May 13] ... A communication from the
Tailors' Society of Troy was then read, appointing Jar-
vis Blachley as a Delegate, in place of J. P. Bartlett,
resigned. A communication from the Cordwainers of
Schenectady was read, appointing Jacob Waggoner as
a Delegate, in place of John F. Brandt, resigned. A
communication from the Cordwainers of the city of
Albany, was read, appointing Frederick Remington as
148 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
a Delegate, in place of Enos Trayhern, resigned. A
communication from the Machinists was read, appoint-
ing Henry Daniels as a Delegate, in place of Charles
Dubois, resigned.
Peter Finnerty, Lewis Doyle, and John McKeon,
as Delegates from the Operative Masons' Society of
Troy, presented their credentials. The credentials
were all approved, and the new Delegates invited to
take their seats in the Convention.
The Special Committees being then in order: . . .
W. R. Erwin, from the Committee on an Address to
the Mechanics of Albany and its vicinity, pertaining to
the contemplated General Meeting, reported, that the
Committee wished the Convention to appoint the time
of calling the same, to be governed thereby; and that
the Committee would report at the next Meeting, and
lay the Address before the Convention, for adoption
and signatures of the members. . .
The Corresponding Secretary read a communication
from the Corresponding Secretary of the Tr. Union of
New York, stating that the following resolution had
been adopted : resolved, that this Convention view with
pride the successful efforts of our fellow-mechanics of
Albany and its vicinity, to establish a Trades' Union As-
sociation, and congratulate them on the apparent una-
nimity existing among them. The resolution was adopted.
On motion of H. Carmichal, of the Cordwainers'
Society- resolved, that the third Monday of June be
the day for a general meeting of Mechanics in the city
of Albany. On motion of the Vice President- resolved,
that the contemplated meeting be at the hour of ten
o'clock in the forenoon.
On motion of F. Milo- resolved, that a committee
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 149
of Arrangement be appointed, consisting of nine mem-
bers -when A. Whitney, of the Carpenters' Society, A.
Houghkirk, of the Tailors' Society, G. L. Martin, of
the Silver-Platers' Society, F. Remington, of the Cord-
wainers' Society, John Hurdis, of the Painters' Society,
John McMickin, of the Saddlers' Society, H. Daniels,
of the Machinists' Society, all of Albany; E. Lock, of
the Brush-makers' Society, Lansingburgh and Troy; and
P. Finnerty, of the Operative Masons' Society, Troy,
were appointed.
On motion of F. Milo- resolved, that a Committee
of five be appointed, to inform the Hon. Ely Moore,
that this convention consider that the cause of mechanics
would be much benefitted by his addressing them on
Monday, 15th June. Resolved, that the same Com-
mittee invite the Hon. Ely Moore, the Delegates of the
Trades' Union of New York, and others friendly to the
interests of the Mechanics, to join the Mechanics of
Albany and its vicinity on Monday, 15th June. Re-
solved, also, that the same Committee make application
to the Trades' Union of New York, for the Banners of
the Union -inasmuch as it would have a beneficial ef-
fect, and also accommodate the Tr. Union of Albany
and its vicinity on that day. The following members
constitute said Committee: W. R. Erwin, F. Milo, A.
Whitney, G. Sanford, and H. Carmichal.
On motion of Mr. Whitney- resolved, that a Com-
mittee of three be appointed, to investigate the appar-
ent errors in the By-Laws and Constitution, relative to
Delegates from out of the city, and report at the next
meeting of the Convention. The following members
constitute said Committee: Andrew Dietz, Walter R.
Erwin, and Henry Dougherty. Adjourned.
I50 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
National Trades' Union, June 20, 1835, p. 2, col. 3.
[June 10] . . . On motion of F. Milo, resolved,
that the Convention suspend the rules of order for the
report of the Corresponding Secretary, relative to the
contemplated celebration the 15th inst. A communica-
tion v^^as then read from Ely Moore, Esq. stating that it
was v^^ith regret his health will not permit him to ad-
dress the Mechanics of Albany and its vicinity on the
15th inst.; also a communication from the Correspond-
ing Secretary of the General Trades Union of New
York, informing them that the banner of the Trades'
Union of that city, agreeable to request, might be loaned
for our coming celebration, and that Mr. David Scott,
Vice President, intends visiting Albany and take charge
of it; also, that the invitation to attend our celebration
has been accepted by the Convention of New York.
The Corresponding Secretary stated to the Conven-
tion that on the receipt of Mr. Moore's letter the com-
mittees of arrangement and of invitation, met and con-
cluded to postpone the celebration, indefinitely, of
which he advised the General Trades' Union of New
York. The Committees then reported, which was ac-
cepted, and the postponement approved by the Conven-
tion. After some remarks, the committees requested
to be discharged; their request was, on a motion, grant-
ed, and they discharged.
The Convention then resumed the rules of order.
A Communication from the Painters' Union Soci-
ety of Troy was then read, appointing Geo. T. Gilles-
pie a delegate. A communication from the Silver
Platers' Society of Albany, appointing Madison Vin-
chell a delegate in place of Geo. L. Martin, resigned.
The credentials were approved, and the new delegates
invited to take their seats in the Convention.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 5 1
The Committee on procuring a room suitable for the
accommodation of the Union and the meetings of the
different Associations attached to the Trades Union of
Albany and its vicinity -Amaziah Whitney from the
same, reported, that the Common Council of Albany
had granted for the use of the Trades' Union of Albany
and its vicinity, a room in the city Hall which the com-
mittee accepted, and recommended the same as a suit-
able place for the accommodation of the Union and the
society attached to it. On motion, it was resolved, that
the report of the room Committee be accepted, and the
room procured in the City Hall, be approved of by
the Convention. Resolved, that a vote of thanks be
tendered by this Convention to the Common Council
for their kindness in granting a room in the City Hall
for the accommodation of theTrades' Union, and that
the same be entered on the minutes of this meeting.
The Committee appointed last meeting to investigate
the apparent errors in the By-laws and Constitution
relative to Delegates from out of the city- Walter R.
Erwin from the same, reported, that the 12th article of
the By-laws be expunged, which was adopted. . .
On motion of H. Carmichael, resolved, that the Fi-
nance Committee be authorized to procure printed
notices and receipts. . .
On motion of H. Carmichael, resolved, that a Com-
mittee of three be appointed with power to have the
room in the City Hall furnished in proper order for
the next meeting of the Convention. A. Whitney, H.
Carmichael, and W. Gibbons, were accordingly ap-
pointed said Committee. Adjourned.
National Trades' Union, July 25, 1835, p. 3, col. 3, 4. Meetings of July
[July 8] ... A communication from the Cab-
152 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
inet-makers of the city of Troy was read, stating the
appointment of James Taylor, Robert Kibbe, and James
Reyan, as their delegates. A communication from the
Painters of the city of Troy, was then read, appointing
Samuel S. Tracey and Joseph E. Wilson, as delegates.
A communication from the Hatters of Schenectady,
appointing Daniel A. Force in place of J. O. Comstock,
resigned; and also the appointment of Alexander Dunn,
as delegates. And a communication from the Tailors
of Albany, appointing John Kling in the place of A.
Houghkirk, resigned. The credentials were all ap-
proved; and on motion, the delegates were invited to
take their seats in the Convention.
The committee appointed last meeting, with power
to furnish the room in the City Hall, made their report,
which was, on motion, accepted. On motion of H. Car-
michael- resolved, that the committee present the bill
of expenses to the Finance Committee, and have power
to draw on the Treasurer for the amount. . .
On motion of W. R. Erwin- resolved, that the Fi-
nance Committee lay before the Convention at their
next regular meeting, a statement of the receipts and ex-
penditures of the Trades' Union of Albany and vicinity
from its organization up to this day.
On motion of H. Carmichael - resolved, that a com-
mittee of one from each delegation representing the
societies in the city of Albany in this Convention, be
appointed to regulate their monthly meetings, so as not
to interfere with each other or the meetings of the Con-
vention, and that the same meet on Monday, the 13th,
and report next meeting. The following compose the
committee: Francis Milo, John McMikin, A. Whit-
ney, Geo. Sanford, H. Carmichael, John Kling, Henry
Daniels, and Henry Fitzsimmons.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 153
On motion - resolved, that a committee of three be
appointed to attend and see that the books of the Con-
vention are regularly and correctly kept. On which,
Walter R. Erwin, Henry Fitzsimmons, and John Stre-
beck, were appointed said committee.
On motion of W. R. Erwin- resolved, that this Con-
vention view with pride the success attending the efiforts
of our fellow mechanics of the city of Troy, and of
Lansingburgh, in the organization of Societies. There
are now five from them, represented in Convention.
We commend their zeal in the good cause, and con-
gratulate them on their favorable prospects of addition-
al strength.
Mr. Erwin also gave notice, that he would, at the
next monthly meeting of the Convention, lay before
them for consideration a proposition for the establish-
ment of a mechanics' library and hall of resort, in the
city of Albany, with a plan for the accomplishment
of so laudable an institution.
After which, Mr. Daniel A. Force, from the Hat-
ters' Society of Schenectady, addressed the Convention,
and stated, in strong and feeling language, the suffer-
ings of Journeymen Hatters in Schenectady. He said,
that at the present prices, they have to work twelve
hours a day, and cannot average more than eighty
cents; that they made out a list of prices, and presented
them to their employers, who, in place of consenting to
raise them, contemptuously said, they were determined
to reduce them. Under such circumstances, the Society
considered it justifiable to strike on their own responsi-
bility, until they had an opportunity to lay their wrongs
before the Convention. On motion- resolved, that a
committee of three be appointed to confer with the del-
egates from the Hatters' Society. The following per-
154 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
sons were appointed by open nomination: Walter R.
Erwin, Frederick Remington, and H. Carmichael. . .
[July 13] . . . The Corresponding Secretary
explained the call of the meeting, by stating, that at
the last meeting of the Convention, held on Wednes-
day, July 8th, in their room, No. 19 City Hall, the dele-
gates from the Hatters Society of Schenectady, report-
ed, that they were compelled to strike for higher wages
on their own responsibility, until they had an oppor-
tunity of laying their wrongs before the Convention.
A committee of three was then appointed to confer
with the delegates from the Hatters' Society, with pow-
er to request (if necessary) a special meeting of the
Convention to be called.
Mr. Erwin, from the committee of conference, said,
that the Hatters of Schenectady were laboring under
the most aggravating oppression that tyranny could ex-
ercise. Their Employers, with a spirit of the basest
cast, and insolent defiance, dared them to strike, under
the penalty of starving them into submission, and com-
pliance with their (the Employers') terms -terms dis-
graceful and cruel ; and with contemptuous impudence,
divested, as they have proved themselves to be, of the
sacred principles of humanity, honor, and justice, they
ask, "Where is their Great Stand-by, the Trades' Un-
ion?" The Hatters of Schenectady, at the present
prices, and work 12 hours, cannot average more than
eighty cents per day. The list of prices now made out
by the Society, do not, and work 12 hours, enable them
to make more than from 10 to 12 shillings per day.
This bill of prices the Employers will not consent to,
but have made out a list of prices to suit themselves -
even lower than they formerly gave! The committee
are of a confirmed opinion, that the Hatters of Sche-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 155
nectady are oppressed in the extreme, and therefore rec-
ommend the immediate action of the Convention in
their behalf. On motion -resolved, that the report of
the committee of conference be accepted.
Mr. Milo said, he had some doubts, agreeable to the
14th article of the Constitution, that the Convention
could sanction the strike of the Hatters. A long and
interesting debate followed, in which several of the
members took part. After which, on motion- resolved,
that this Convention approve the strike of the Hatters
of Schenectady.
On motion of John McMicken- resolved, that the
delegates of this Convention represent the grievances
of the Hatters to their respective Societies, and recom-
mend the same to sustain them on their strike, until
such time they obtain their bill of prices approved by
this Convention. On motion of Fred'k Remington -
resolved, that the members of the Hatters' Society now
on the strike, receive, viz: men of family, $4 per week;
single men, $3. On motion of H. Carmichael- re-
solved, that should the Hatters' Society increase in
number, or an addition to the number on strike, notice
shall be given to the Treasurer of this Convention,
signed by the President and Secretai^^ of their Society.
On motion of John Strebeck - resolved, that the mem-
bers of the Hatters' Society on the strike, receive an
order on the Treasurer, one week in advance, for the
amount agreed to by this Convention.
The Vice President resigned the chair to Mr. Stre-
beck. Mr. Cameron then addressed the Convention at
some length, in the course of which, he gave his con-
struction of the 14th article of the Constitution, on
strikes; and concluded, that the vote of the Convention
was in accordance with his opinion, by approving the
156 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
strike of the Hatters' Society. The Vice President re-
sumed the chair.
On motion of W. R. Erwin- resolved, that the Re-
cording Secretary give notice to the Finance Committee
to hold a special meeting on Monday, July the 20th inst.,
for the purpose of arranging their accounts -and report
at the next regular meeting of the Convention.
No other business coming before the Convention, the
Vice President resigned the chair to Mr. Milo, and ad-
dressed the Convention the second time. He stated,
that a Trades' Union in Schenectady, as an auxiliary to
the Albany Trades' Union, would be the greatest bene-
fit to the cause of mechanics in this part of the State,
and be additional strength to our ranks. He said, there
are several trades in Schenectady, that could form so-
cieties of from ten to twenty, and upwards, members
each; and would be glad to join the Trades' Union, but
their numbers will not warrant them to incur the ex-
pense and loss of time, by sending delegates to attend
the monthly and special meetings at Albany. . . He
concluded that the prospects were favorable to a Trades'
Union in Schenectady, and wished the advice of the
Convention on the propriety of establishing a Union in
that city, as auxiliary to the Albany Union. . .
On motion, also, resolved, that a committee of three
be appointed to confer with the Schenectady delegation,
on the propriety of establishing a union of trades in
that city. The following persons were appointed by
open nomination: viz. W. R. Erwin, A. Whitney, and
John Strebeck. The committee then withdrew, to con-
fer with the delegates; and, after a short absence, re-
turned, and made the following report:
Your committee do highly approve of the mechanics
of the city of Schenectady forming themselves into a
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 157
Trades' Union, as an auxiliary to the Union of Albany.
Therefore we offer the following resolutions: resolved,
that this Convention is highly gratified that the mechan-
ics of Schenectady are about establishing a Trades' Un-
ion: resolved, that the measure meets our warmest ap-
probation, and calls for every exertion on the part of the
members of the Albany Union, to forward the great
object in view, of encouraging the organization of So-
cieties and Unions in every town and city of the State.
The resolutions were adopted, and the Convention ad-
journed.
National Trades' Union, Aug. 22, 1835, p. 3, col. i, 2.
[August 12] ... A communication from the
Silver Platers of Albany was read, appointing Edward
A. Schermerhorn as a delegate, in place of Daniel Van
Valkenburgh, resigned. A communication from the
Saddlers of Albany, appointing John B. Townsend as
delegate, in place of Andrew Deitz, resigned. A com-
munication from the Cordwainers of Albany, appoint-
ing Henry Evens as delegate, in place of Hiram Car-
michael, resigned. A communication from the Copper-
smiths of Troy, appointing James Hyatt, Austin S.
Wells, and Geo. P. Watts, as their delegates. A com-
munication from the Taylors of Troy, appointing H.
M. Wells as delegate, in place of Jarvis Blatchley, re-
signed. A communication from the Painters of Troy,
appointing Elberidge Wellington as delegate, in place
of Geo. Gillespie, resigned. The credentials were all
approved; and on motion, the delegates were invited
to take their seats in the Convention.
W. R. Erwin then offered Andrew Deitz' resigna-
tion as President, which was accepted. . . Elections
for officers to fill vacancies being then in order, Henry
158 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Evens, Geo. Sanford and John McMickin, were ap-
pointed inspectors. The election resulted in favor of
W. R. Erwin, for President, and Francis Milo, Vice
President. W. R. Erwin ofifered his resignation as Cor-
responding Secretary: W. H. Baldwin offered his resig-
nation, as Recording Secretary: when on motion, the
resignations were both accepted. The Convention then
proceeded to the election of Recording and Correspond-
ing Secretaries, which resulted in favor of Edward A.
Schermerhorn, as Recording Secretary, and John B.
Townsend, as Corresponding Secretary.
On motion of Fellilo, resolved, that this Con-
vention highly approve of the stand which the House
Wrights of Boston have taken, in endeavoring to obtain
the Ten Hour System, and that the mechanics of Al-
bany and vicinity will use all honorable means to sustain
them in their undertaking. . .
National Trades' Union, Sept. 19, 1835, p. 2, col. 3, 4.
[September 9] • • . Communications were re-
ceived from the following Societies: from the Jour-
neymen Cordwainers of Troy, appointing Cyrus War-
ren, Julius Moulton, and William McKay, delegates
to represent them in the General Trades' Union of Al-
bany. Journeymen Coach-makers of Troy, appointing
Abram Schryver, Jones Frink, and Cortland C. Cook,
as their delegates. Brush-makers and Finishers' Society
of Lansingburgh and Troy, appointing Malachi W.
Brown, William Bradshaw, and Thomas Mount, in
place of Eli Locke, James H. Gardner, and Daniel
Sweeney, resigned. Painters' Society of Troy, appoint-
ing Alonzo Crandall their delegate, in place of Samuel
S. Tracy, resigned. The credentials were all approved,
and the delegates conducted to their respective seats in
the convention.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 159
The President then stated, that there would be a
National Convention held in New York, on Thursday,
Oct. I, 1835, and that each Society connected with this
Union be and are hereby directed to send one delegate
from their body, to represent them in said convention,
and that their respective Societies defray the expense
of said delegate. . .
The Committee on claims of the Schenectady Hat-
ters' Society, reported as follows, (Mr. Hurdis being
called to the chair) :
Your Committee appointed at the last meeting of
the convention, to proceed to Schenectady, for the pur-
pose of investigating the Hatters' claims on the Union
for support while on strike, and make all necessary en-
quiry of the Employers, and others of the trade, to en-
able them (the Committee) to conclude whether the
delegates from the Hatters' Society represented the cir-
cumstances that caused the Hatters to strike, was
founded on facts supported by truth :
Your Committee, therefore, report, that as far as lay
in their power, they discharged the duty they were re-
quested to perform, with impartiality, doing justice to
the parties concerned, without favor or affection to-
wards one or the other- keeping in view only the just
rights of each, and at the same time protect the honor
of our Trades' Union from imposition and undeserved
rebuke.
Your Committee, after a minute examination of Em-
ployers' books, information from all others of the trade
in Schenectady, with the confirmed opinion of many
respectable mechanics, they are fully satisfied that Dan-
iel A. Force, Alexander Dunn, and Benedict A. Meigs,
made a false representation to the Committee of Con-
ference, whereby the Convention was induced to sane-
i6o AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
tion their strike, and grant them the weekly provision
of the Union in such cases allowed.
Your Committee, therefore, beg leave to recom-
mend that the President, Secretary, and Delegates of the
Hatters' Society of Schenectady, receive a vote of cen-
sure -the two former, for sanctioning, by their signa-
tures, certificates not founded on truth or justice; and
the latter, for reporting falsely, and receiving money
unworthily from the Union, by which they have wound-
ed the feelings of numbers of their fellow journeymen
Hatters, who request your Committee to state to the
Convention, that the Hatters of Schenectady were not
fully or fairly represented, and beg they may be exon-
erated from any connection with the dishonorable acts
of others. They also protest against the proceedings of
the delegates from the Hatters' Society, and reprobate
their conduct, inasmuch as they were drawing from
the funds of the Union money unworthily, when they
could get plenty of employment, and make on an aver-
age from 10 to 12 and 14 shillings per day and work 11
hours; also, their representation to the Convention, that
they had to work 12 hours to make 80 cents, was false,
and tantamount to an insult to Hatters, and a libel on
their Employers -even take the worst branch of the
trade.
Your Committee with pleasure inform the Conven-
tion, that they were treated with politeness by the Em-
ployers of the Hatters of Schenectady ; and the inform-
ation obtained from them was fully corroborated by
the Journeymen -with the exception of four, two of
whom were on strike, one of the others a Secretary of
the Society, and the other we were informed was the
Treasurer.
Therefore, resolved, that the Convention be recom-
mended to give notice to the Treasurer of the Trades'
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS i6i
Union of Albany and its vicinity, not to cash any orders
presented to him by any of the delegates of said Society,
unless signed by the Chairman of the Finance Commit-
tee of said Union.
Walter R. Erwin, Francis Milo,
Joseph Shurtleff- Committee.
The report was accepted, and the President resumed
the chair.
After the reading of the above report, the delegate
from the Hatters' Society of Schenectady requested the
dues paid in by their Society this evening to be refunded
to them. On motion of Mr. Milo, his request was
granted, and the money returned.
A letter was received per favor of Mr. Boggs, from
the Hatters of Philadelphia, respecting those of Schen-
ectady, which had been directed (enveloped) to the
President of the Trades' Union of New York, and then
forwarded to Albany, which was read in the Conven-
tion. Mr. Boggs being present, he stated how and for
what reason the letter was presented to this Convention.
Mr. Dunn, of the Schenectady Hatters' Society, ad-
dressed the Convention at some length, when on motion
of Mr. Whitney, the subject was laid open for debate,
which was long and interesting, and in which several
members took part.
The Corresponding Secretary reported and read a let-
ter of invitation from the Chairman of the Committee
of Arrangements of the Trades' Union of N. York,
which with deep regret we state, came too late for the
Convention to act upon in time for the celebration of
said Union. On motion of Mr. A. Whitney, resolved,
that the letter be accepted, and the thanks of this Con-
vention be returned through the Corresponding Sec-
retary.
The following resolution was offered by Mr. F. Rem-
1 62 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ington: resolved, that this Convention elect the dele-
gates to represent the Trades' Union of Albany and its
vicinity in the National Convention to be holden in N.
York, on Thursday, October ist, 1835. The Convention
then went into a nomination for delegates -and Walter
R. Erwin, Francis Milo, Frederick Remington, Ama-
ziah Whitney, James Taylor, and Henry Evens, were
nominated as candidates for election; and upon count-
ing the ballots, Messrs. Erwin, Milo, and Taylor, were
duly elected.
Nominations were then made to fill vacancies in the
Finance Committee. Mr. Bell and Mr. Whitney were
nominated. The election resulted in favor of Mr. Bell.
The following resolutions were offered and accepted.
By Mr. A. Whitney. That a copy of the report of
the Hatters' claims of Schenectady, by the Committee
of Investigation, be furnished the Trades' Union of that
place.
By Mr. John Hurdis. That the Corresponding Sec-
retary be and he is hereby directed to subscribe for a
copy of the National Trades' Union, in the name and
for the use of this Convention.
By Mr. Francis Milo. That the delegates from the
different Societies out of this city be instructed by this
Convention to request their respective Societies to pay
whatever they may think proper towards defraying the
contingent expenses of this Union.
By Mr. F. Remington. That the expenses of the del-
egates elected this evening to the National Convention,
be paid by this Union. . .
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 63
National Trades' Union, Oct. 3, 1835, p. 2, col. 4.
[September 23] . . . Credentials were received
from the Cordwainers of Albany, appointing William
Le Lacheure as delegate, in place of John Strebeck, re-
signed ; also from the Stone-masons of Albany, appoint-
ing John O'Brien as delegate, in the place of Peter
Fitzpatrick, resigned. On motion, the credentials were
approved, and the delegates above-named were invited
to take their seats in the convention.
Mr. Whitney was called to the chair, when the object
of the meeting was stated, and a letter was read from the
Corresponding Secretary of the Nat. Trades' Union,
which was accepted. A letter was received from the
Hon. Ely Moore, which was read and accepted -when
on motion, resolved, that the same committee answer the
letter, and present to him the thanks of the convention.
Also, a letter was received by the Corresponding Sec-
retary, from the Cordwainers of Schenectady, stating
that they had presented their bill of prices to the em-
ployers, who refused to sanction it at the time, but have
since granted their just demands.
The President resumed the chair. On motion, re-
solved, that a list of the regular nights of meeting of the
different Societies be made out by the Secretary, and a
copy handed to each Society. . .
Mr. Bell was called to the chair, when a long and
very warm debate arose concerning the delegates elect
to the National Convention -which was finally settled.
The President again resumed the chair.
On motion of Mr. Francis Milo, resolved, that every
mechanic and artisan who now or may hereafter be-
long to the Albany Trades' Union, is by this resolution
requested to invite such members of their respective
Societies to a seat in this convention, as may think prop-
er to attend, whenever it shall meet for the transaction
1 64 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
of business: provided always, that none be allowed to
speak or vote upon any question except the delegates
composing the convention.
On motion of Mr. F. Remington, resolved, that each
Society give in the names of their delegates elect to the
National Convention. . .
National Trades' Union, Oct, 24, 1835, p. 2, col. 2.
[October 14] . . . Credentials were received
from the following societies: Coach and Chaise Mak-
ers of Albany, appointing Elias Vanderlip, Nicholas
Efner, and Abram Efner, delegates to represent them
in this Convention. Coopers' Society of Albany, ap-
pointing David Thomas, David Moore, and James
Byrne, delegates. Saddle and Harness Makers of Al-
bany, appointing James Smith in place of John Mc-
Micken, resigned. Brush Makers and Finishers, of
Lansingburgh and Troy, appointing James Bradshaw
in place of Thomas J. Mount, expelled.
On motion, it was carried, that the proceedings of the
National Trades' Union be read. After reading the
said proceedings they were unanimously approved of
by this Convention. . .
Corresponding Secretary's Report, read and accepted,
with the following resolution, by D. E. Hawley. Re-
solved, that we tender our warmest thanks to Mr. Seth
Luther for the sentiments expressed in his communica-
tion; also, for the Boston Circular and Plate of the
Bunker Hill Monument, presented by him to this Un-
ion. . .
By W. Le Lacheur- resolved, that a committee of
three be appointed and invested with power from this
Union, to procure a stove and fire wood, for the bene-
fit and use of the several societies who belong to this
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 165
Union and meet in this room, and that each society
pay their equal portion of the expenses arising there-
from. The committee appointed were Messrs. Le
Lacheur, Daniels, and Whitney.
The delegates to the National Convention presented
bills, which were passed for payment. A motion was
then carried that the Schenectady Hatters have leave to
withdraw from this Union. . .
National Trades' Union, Dec. 19, 1835, p. 2, col. 2.
[December 9] • • . Credentials were received
from the Cordwainers of Troy, appointing Abel P.
West and William Congdon as delegates in place of
Julius P. Moulton resigned, and Cyrus Warren de-
ceased. From the Union Journeymen Tailors of Al-
bany, appointing P. V. Watson in place of Chas. Put-
nam, resigned. The credentials were approved, and
the delegates invited to take seats in the convention. . .
A copy of a set of resolutions, adopted by the coach
makers of Troy, was received and referred to a commit-
tee of conference to report at the next meeting, as the
best course to pursue in relation to their grievances.
Mr. E. Vanderlip from the Coach-makers of Albany
rose and stated to the convention what had called forth
the resolutions adopted by the Coach makers society of
the city of Troy. He stated from good authority that
it was the intention of some of the employers to break
down the Trades' Union, by employing an unlimited
number of half-way journeymen and apprentices, and
that by so doing they would have it in their power to
crush the regular journeymen, and that it was also their
intention, (by combination) to break down the ten
hour system in their establishments; thus rendering it
impossible for the honest mechanic to devote any time to
i66 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
impart either moral or social instruction to his young
and helpless family. . .
Mr. Whitney called up his amendment of the 2d
article of the constitution for action, which elicited a
warm and very lengthy discussion, when an additional
amendment by Mr. Daniels was adopted, as follows:
Every society numbering twenty-five or less to send 3
delegates, every society numbering fifty to send 4 dele
gates, and in the same ratio of twenty-five members to
send one additional delegate. A division of the house
was then called upon the question, and it was found not
sufficient to decide upon the amendment, when a mo-
tion of adjournment prevailed.
National Trades' Union, Jan. 23, 1836, p. 2, col. 2.
[January 13] . . . Credentials were received
from the Painters Society of Albany, appointing Benj.
Babcock as delegate in place of F. Milo, resigned.
From the united society of journeymen Cordwainers
of the city of Hudson, returning Robert B. Lawton and
William H. Traver, for the ensuing year. From the
Journeymen Chair Makers of Troy, returning Willard
Parnell, Alexander Kemp, and Jacob Ondekirk, for
the ensuing year. The credentials were approved, and
the delegates invited to take their seats in the Conven-
tion.
The Committee to whom had been referred the res-
olutions of the Coach Makers of Troy made the follow-
ing report: The resolutions adopted Nov. 6th, 1835, by
the coach makers of Troy, and laid before the Albany
Trades Union on the 9th Dec. last, are considered by
your committee to be of the greatest importance to that
and all other societies in Troy and its vicinity, as the em-
ployers of different trades daily threaten to break down
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 67
the different societies by employing under journeymen
and apprentices. Therefore, your committee deem it
proper for this convention to sanction the resolutions
adopted by the coach makers of Troy, and also recom-
mend that they will use all honorable means in their
power to promote the rights of the regular journey-
men against the aristocratic attacks of their oppressive
employers. The report was, on motion, accepted and
ordered with a copy of the resolutions to be published.
The following is a copy of the resolutions adopted by
the Coach Makers Society of the city of Troy:
Whereas, the society of Journeymen Coach Makers of the city
of Troy, do consider it their duty to devise some plan to guard the
interest of regular journe3'^men against the influence which an em-
ployer may exercise by employing an undue proportion of men under
instruction and apprentices to that of the regular journeymen. There-
fore, resolved, that we, the members of this society, will not instruct
or aid in instructing any irregular journeyman in any of the branches
attached to the trade. Resolved, that we will not instruct or aid
and assist in instructing any number of apprentices taken after this
date, over a proportion of one to every four regular journeymen in
any of the branches attached to the coach making business. Resolved,
that the substance of the above resolutions be attached to the by-laws
of this society. Resolved, that our delegate to the Union of Albany,
be instructed to communicate to the convention the resolutions adopted
by this society. . .
The unfinished business of the last meeting, viz. the
amendment of the 2d article of the Constitution, was
again called up, when after a long and interesting dis-
cussion, it was decided by the President to be lost. . .
Resolutions read and adopted : by Abel P. West, re-
solved, that all societies now in arrears to this Conven-
tion shall cancel the same on or before the next regular
meeting; and that the corresponding Secretary inform
the Secretaries of the different societies composing this
1 68 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Union, of the above resolution. By John Hurdis, re-
solved, that the communication from the Editors of the
National Trades' Union, be referred to a Special Com-
mittee with power to obtain subscribers for the same,
and report at the next meeting of the convention. The
following compose the committee : Abel P. West, Dan-
iel Wellington and Wm. Congdon of Troy, Elias Van-
derlip, Fred. T. Remington, John Hurdis and Wm.
Bell of Albany. . .
National Trades' Union, Feb. 20, 1836, p. 2, col. 2.
[February lo] . . . Credentials were received
from the following Societies of Albany, appointing
delegates for the ensuing year: Painters - David E.
Hawley, Benj. Babcock, and John Hurdis. Saddlers -
Walter R. Erwin, James Smith, and Elijah McCher-
ney. Carpenters -D. F. Holdrige, P. G. Sharp, and E.
E. Piatt. Silver Platers -E. A. Schermerhorn, N. B.
Walker, and M. Winchell. Coopers -Lyman Crow-
ell. Cordwainers- F. T. Remington and John Adams.
Coach Makers - Charles Gowie. Tailors -H. Dough-
erty and P. V. Watson. Founders and Machinists-
John Miller, William McCammon, and H. Daniels. . .
The Convention then went into a recess for the pur-
pose of nominating suitable candidates for officers of
this Union for the ensuing year; before entering into
the nomination, the President, W. R. Erwin, made a few
appropriate remarks, declining a nomination for re-
election. The time of recess having expired, the Conven-
tion proceeded to ballot, when the following persons
were found to be elected for the ensuing year: For
President, Erastus E. Piatt; Vice President, Henry
Daniels; Recording Secretary, Ed. A. Schermerhorn;
Corresponding Secretary, Fred T. Remington; Treas-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 169
urer, David E. Hawley; Finance Committee, P. G.
Sharp, Elias Vanderlip, H. Dougherty, James Smith,
H. Daniels, A. Schriver, B. Babcock. . .
On motion, a Special Committee was appointed to
examine the books of the Finance Committee, and hand
them to the Committee elect, for them to report at the
next regular meeting. Committee -Messrs. Hurdis,
McChesney, and Daniels.
The following resolutions were adopted :
By E. A. Schermerhorn. Resolved, that a Commit-
tee of three be appointed to revise the Constitution and
By-Laws of this Union, and report the same at the next
regular meeting for approval. The following Commit-
tee was appointed: Messrs. Schermerhorn, Erwin, and
Hawley.
By W. R. Erwin. Resolved, that the Finance Com-
mittee consist of one member from each Society here-
in represented, and that they be appointed by their re-
spective Societies. Referred to the Committee on Con-
stitution and Bye Laws.
By John Adams. Resolved, that the Delegates of
the different Societies that compose this Union enquire
the names of Employers who pay the bill of wages that
their respective Societies demand, and lepui t die sanic
with their place of residence at the next regular meet-
ing of the Convention.
By W. R. Erwin. Resolved, that we highly approve
of the stand the Journeymen Book-binders of Philadel-
phia have taken to maintain their just rights, and that
our Corresponding Secretary correspond with the above
society, tendering our assistance to them if needed. Ad-
journed.
lyo AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
National Trades' Union, March 5, 1836, p. 2, col. 4.
[February 29] . . . Credentials were received
from the Cordwainers' Society, appointing George
Evans a delegate for the ensuing year. From the Un-
ion Journeymen Tailors, appointing Peter Dolan for
the ensuing year. The credentials were approved, and
the delegates invited to take seats in the Convention.
The Corresponding Secretary read two communica-
tions from the Journeymen Bookbinders' Society of
Philadelphia, which were accepted, and on motion of
Mr. J. Adams, it was resolved, that this Union appro-
priate fifty dollars for the use of the Journeymen Book-
binders' Society of Philadelphia, to assist them in their
just stand against their oppressive employers.
A communication was also read from the General
Trades' Union of New- York, with a report and pros-
pectus of a daily paper, proposed to be established in
that city, which was accepted, and laid over for action
until the next regular meeting. Communications from
the Journeymen Coach-makers of Troy were also read,
accepted, and laid on the table till the next regular
meeting.
On motion, a Committee of three was appointed to
wait upon the Treasurer for the amount of money,
($50) and forward the same forthwith to the Journey-
men Bookbinders of Philadelphia. Committee, Messrs.
Remington, Erwin, and McChesney. . .
National Trades' Union, March 19, 1836, p. 2, col. 3, 4.
[March 9] . . . Credentials were received from
the Cordwainers' Society of Troy, returning Wm.
Congdon, Henry Brazie, and Rosevelt Baldwin, their
delegates for the ensuing year. From the Brushmakers
and Finishers of Lansingburgh, returning George T.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 171
Gillespie, Charles J. Silance, and James McKenny, for
the ensuing year. The credentials were approved, and
the delegates were invited to take their seats in the
convention.
Reports of Special Committees: Committee on
wood, accepted. Committee on constitution and bye-
laws, deferred till next regular meeting. Committee
to forward aid to the book-binders of Phila., accepted.
Report on list of employers who pay the regular wages,
deferred till next regular meeting. The committee ap-
pointed to investigate the books of this Union, made a
feeble report, with a request to be discharged from fur-
ther duty, which was accepted; but after a short discus-
sion, the vote was re-considered, and the same committee
directed to proceed to Mr. Gibbons, the ex-treasurer,
and require of him the books and funds belonging to
the Union, which, as was stated by Henry Daniels, still
remained in his hands. Mr. Daniels, as one of that
committee, refused to act, when Mr. John Adams was
appointed to fill the vacancy. The committee then pro-
ceeded to fulfill their duty. . .
A recess of ten minutes was granted for the settle-
ment of the financial affairs of the convention. The re-
cess having expired, the committee to wait upon the
ex-treasurer having returned, made the following re-
port: That, having called upon Mr. Gibbons, he hand-
ed to them the books and papers belonging to the Union,
and also stated that he had paid the money belonging
to the Union, over to Henry Daniels, and had his re-
ceipt for the same. They then enquired of Mr. Dan-
iels concerning the funds, and he answered them by
stating, that they (the committee) had no authority over
him, and that he would not inform them where the mon-
172 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ey was. On motion, a farther committee of seven was
appointed, to wait upon Messrs. Gibbons and Daniels,
for the aforesaid funds. Messrs. Remington, McChes-
ney, Adams, Evans, Dougherty, Congdon, and Dolan,
were appointed said committee, who immediately pro-
ceeded on their duty.
In the interim, the financial committee made a re-
port, which was accepted. Also a communication
from the New York Trades' Union, respecting the
Union journeymen tailors of that city, was read, and a
committee of three appointed to draft resolutions, ex-
pressive of our feelings: Messrs. Hawley, McCam-
man, and Baldwin. They having retired, shortly re-
turned with the following resolutions, which were
adopted: resolved, that we highly approve of the noble
and manly stand taken by the Union journeymen tail-
ors of the city of New York, against the oppressive
measures of the self-styled masters, as we recognize in
the proceedings of the said masters, the withering hand
of oppression. Resolved, that the Union of journeymen
tailors of the city of New York, not being members of
the Trades' Union, and we, as a convention, not auth-
orized by any article in the constitution to assist them
by any pecuniary means, do most cheerfully recommend
them to the society of journeymen tailors of this city,
and all other societies of journeymen mechanics to as-
sist them in their noble and praiseworthy stand against
oppression and tyranny.
Mr. Sharp, from the Carpenters' Society, stated to
the convention that it was the intention of the jour-
neymen to raise their wages one shilling per day, in ad-
vance of the last season, so as to enable them to sustain
their families, inasmuch as the high price of house rent
and provisions loudly call for this small advance. On
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 73
motion of Mr. Vanderlip, that this convention do high-
ly approve of the just and equitable advance in their
wages. . .
The committee of seven having returned, made a re-
port of having received a note from Mr. Daniels, pay-
able on demand, for the amount of monies belonging
to this Union. Accepted.
The Corresponding Secretary read a letter from the
book-binders of Philadelphia, which was accepted, and
the above committee of seven directed to attend to the
same; and on motion, it was carried, that a receipt from
the above committee be sufficient to guarantee to the
Treasurer, for the amount of money he may pay to
them for the use of the book-binders of Philadel-
phia. . .
The report and prospectus of the daily paper, to be
established in New York, was then taken up, and re-
ferred to the dififerent societies attached to this Union,
and that they report at the next regular meeting of the
convention.
The coach-makers of Troy had leave to withdraw
from the Union, having attached themselves to a
Trades' Union in the city of Troy. . .
On motion, it was resolved, that Henry Daniels be
expelled from this convention, for conduct relative to
the monies belonging to this Union.
The cordwainers of Troy presented a copy of a list
of prices, which they intended to present to their em-
ployers, which was, on motion, sanctioned by the con-
vention.
The convention then proceeded to an election for
Vice President, in place of H. Daniels, expelled; when,
upon counting the ballots, Mr. John Adams was de-
clared to be duly elected.
174 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
National Laborer, Nov. 22, 1836, p. 123, col. 4.
[October 13] • • • Credentials from Coopers'
and Painters' Societies of Albany, and Brush Makers'
and Finishers' Society of Lansingburgh, returning dele-
gates to this Union, were presented and accepted. . .
On motion of Mr. A. Whitney, the following reso-
lutions were passed: resolved, that the Corresponding
Secretary correspond with the different Unions in the
United States. Resolved, that the proceedings of this
meeting be published in the National Laborer at Phil-
adelphia, and New York State Journal at Troy.
National Laborer, Dec. 24, 1836, p. 159, col. 3. Meeting of December 14.
[December 14] ... A communication from the
Journeymen Cordwainers' Society of Utica, was re-
ceived by the convention, requesting that said Society
might be attached to the Albany Union, and stating
that said Society numbered forty-five members, and
that the following persons were duly elected Delegates
to represent said Society, when admitted to the Albany
Union, viz: H. Jennison, A. M. Warner, Benjamin
Banker, and James Carran. . . On motion, the
above communication was accepted by the Convention,
and the Society unanimously admitted, and their Dele-
gate present, H. Jennison invited to take his seat in the
Convention.
On motion, a Committee of three were appointed to
investigate the State Prison System and report at the
next Meeting of the Convention. Mr. A. E. Scher-
merhorn, Wm. Boggart, and A. Whitney, were appoint-
ed said committee. On motion, the said committee
were requested and instructed to investigate the co-op-
erative system and report at the same time. . .
N.B. The number of Societies composing the Albany
Union are thirteen.
5- NEWARK
Proceedings of meetings of the Newark Trades' Union held between
March 17, 1835, and July 19, 1836. "Reported for the National
Trades' Union."
National Trades' Union, March 28, 1835, p. 2, col. 4.
[March 17] . . . The following persons then
presented their credentials: From the Union Benevo-
lent Society of Cordwainers- Johnson Smith, Geo.
Smith, John Howard, Asa Scribner. From the Ladies'
Shoe and Men's Pump makers' Society- John H.Bak-
er, H. S. Schenck, John M. Caffrey, Noah Hudson,
Nathaniel H. Green, Abraham Clark, Geo. Rowland.
From the Boot Fitters' Society -Thos. Stroud, John
McKeeven. From the Patterson Society of Cordwain-
ers -Wm. Mastens. From the Hatters' Society- Sam-
uel W. Frost, Aaron P. Ball, Edward B. Baldwin.
The Convention then proceeded to the election of
officers for the following six months: when John How-
ard was duly elected President; Abraham Clark, Vice
President; Philip Wilson, Recording Secretary; H. S,
Schenck, Corresponding Secretary; and Lewis Lyon,
Treasurer. . .
The Report of the Finance Committee was then
handed in, which shows a balance in their hands, of one
hundred and fifty-five dollars. The Report was accept-
ed. The Report of the Treasurer was also handed in
and accepted. The Financial Delegates then paid in
the sums due from the various Societies, which amount-
ed to $31.43%. . .
Resolved, that a Committee of three be appointed,
to be denominated the Publishing Committee, with
176 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
discretionary powers, when the following persons were
appointed: Asa Scribner, George Rowland, H. S.
Schenck. . .
National Trades' Union, May 2, 1835, P- 2, col. 2.
[April 21] . . . The Corresponding Secretary-
stated, that he had received an application from the
Saddlers, Harness-makers, and Trimmers' Society, for
admission into the Trades' Union -which he proposed
should be acted upon before proceeding to the other
business of the meeting. The proposition being agreed
to, the Convention then proceeded to ballot for them,
when they were declared unanimously elected. It was
understood that the Delegates were present, and they
were accordingly invited into the room -when Geo. B.
R. Wade, Francis Beers, and Thomas Daws, presented
their credentials, and were invited to take their
seats. . . Mr. Jacob S. Casterline, from the Ladies*
Shoe and Men's Pump-makers' Society, presented his
credentials, which were accepted, and he was invited to
take his seat.
The Report of the Finance Committee was then given
in, which shows a balance in their hands of $181.98.
The Report was accepted. . .
The subject of the revision of the Constitution was
then taken up, and the following amendments were
adopted by the Convention :
Section i. The Treasurer shall, at the discretion of
the Convention, hold the moneys belonging to this
body, to the amount of $50, for which he shall give
such security as may be deemed sufficient; and no pay-
ment shall be made by him, without an order signed by
all the resident members of the Finance Committee,
and counter-signed by the President and Secretary.
Section 2. Each resident member of the Finance
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 177
Committee shall deliver to the President of the Con-
vention, at every stated meeting, the amount due from
their respective Societies, and non-residents, at least
as often as once in three months.
The 1 2th Article of the By-Laws vv^as so amended as
to read "Resident members," instead of "Members of
the Finance Committee." The above amendments were
agreed to by the Convention, and will be laid before
the Societies for their sanction. It was resolved, that
the Finance Committee hold an extra meeting once in
three months, half an hour earlier than the Convention
on the evening of their meeting, for the accommoda-
tion of members from other places, to examine their
book and report to the Convention.
On account of an error in the last Report, the names
of the Delegates from the Fudge Boot and Shoe-mak-
ers' Society, were not published. The credentials of
William Scarlett, Lewis Lyon, Henry Lyon, Jas. P.
Hand, Thomas Milliage and Abram Storms, were
handed in and accepted.
On motion, it was resolved, that the Secretary be add-
ed to the Publishing Committee.
The amount of moneys collected was $82. . .
National Trades' Union, Aug. 22, 1835, p. 3, col. 2, 3.
[July 22] A Special Meeting of the Trades' Union
of Newark and vicinity, was held at the Washington
Hotel, July 22d, agreeably to a request of a Committee
from Paterson, who were accompanied by Mr. Scott,
Vice President of the New York Trades' Union. It
was, on motion, resolved, that George Rowland and
Howard S. Schenck do constitute a Committee to in-
vite the Paterson Delegation and Mr. Scott into the
room of the Convention.
178 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
The Delegation being invited to address the Union,
Mr. Field of Paterson stated, the object of their mis-
sion was, to ascertain of this Convention if the Mechan-
ics of Paterson could join the Trades' Union here; and
if eligible to join, how to proceed for that purpose; and
also to request this Union to exert its influence in aiding
them in a pecuniary manner, if, in the anticipated strug-
gle for their rights, it should be deemed necessary. Mr.
Scott followed, and in a most forcible speech depicted
the condition of the Operatives of Paterson. He con-
cluded by earnestly requesting the Union to take their
case into consideration.
Mr. Schenck offered the following resolution, which
was unanimously carried: resolved, that the Mechan-
ics of Paterson are hereby informed, that they will be
received into this Union in any manner they may deem
proper, provided they present their Roll Books for the
inspection of the General Finance Committee of the
Union, in accordance with the Constitution. Resolved,
that the following do constitute a Committee to cor-
respond with them -George Rowland, Howard S.
Schenck, and Philip Wilson. Resolved, that the Com-
mittee shall, on the receipt of an answer, call a special
meeting, if they deem it necessary. Resolved, that the
National Convention be requested to hold their session
here. . . NOAH HUTSON, V. Pres.
[July 25] A special meeting of the Trades' Union
of Newark and vicinity was held at the Washington
Hotel, July 25th, in consequence of a deputation (con-
sisting of Messrs. Luther, Osgood, and Virgen,) having
been sent from Boston, to confer with the Trades' Union
here. They were accompanied by Mr. Scott, Vice
President of the Trades' Union of N. York. Howard
S. Schenck and Philip Wilson were deputed to invite
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 1 79
the delegation and Mr. Scott into the room of the Con-
vention.
The delegation having been requested to address the
Union, Mr. Luther arose and stated their object, which
was to establish the ten-hour system in every place where
it is practicable; and concluded by requesting the Con-
vention to send a delegation with them to assist in ac-
complishing the object.
The following persons were then appointed to draft
resolutions expressive of the sense of the Convention:
George Rowland, John H. Manahan, Asa Scribner,
Howard S. Schenck, and Philip Wilson. The Commit-
tee submitted the following resolutions, which were
adopted: resolved, that in viewing the position which
the Mechanics of Boston have assumed, we perceive
and acknowledge the justice of it, and are willing to
co-operate with them in establishing a principle so con-
ducive to human happiness. Resolved, that a Commit-
tee be appointed to proceed in conjunction with the
Boston delegation, to Philadelphia, providing the
Trades' Union of N. York sanction the same by a sim-
ilar course. Mr. Henry Lyons was then appointed to
accompany the delegation. . .
Noah Hutson, V. Pres.- Philip Wilson, Sec'y.
National Trades' Union, Nov. 14, 1835, p. 2, col. 3, 4.
At a Special meeting of the Trades' Union of New-
ark and vicinity, held at Moore's Washington Hotel,
on Thursday evening, Oct. 29, called to hear a state-
ment from the Hand Loom Weavers of Philadelphia -
the meeting having been called to order- it was, on
motion.
Resolved, that Messrs. Baker, Pierson, and Scribner,
be a committee to invite the delegation into the room.
i8o AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Whereupon Messrs. Clayton and Fisher were intro-
duced as said delegation. By invitation, Mr. Clayton
explained the object of their mission -viz. to request
this Union to assist them with their influence in a pe-
cuniary manner; he also stated, that the Hand Loom
Weavers could earn, by 14 hours steady application
only one dollar, and that their employers were now
endeavoring to reduce their already too low wages 20
per cent, leaving them only about 5 cents per hour. On
motion, it was
Resolved, that the President appoint a committee of
seven, to draft resolutions expressive of the sense of this
Convention; when the following gentlemen were ap-
pointed-Messrs. Pierson, Scribner, Wilson, Savage,
Day, Howard, and Gardner. On motion, the Conven-
tion adjourned for half an hour, to allow the commit-
tee time to draft the resolutions. When the Convention
again assembled, the committee reported the following,
which were unanimously adopted:
Resolved, that viewing with feelings of the utmost
abhorrence the cruelty of the oppressive conduct of the
employers of the Hand Loom Weavers of Philadelphia,
we deem it a duty incumbent on us to recommend to
our various Societies the necessity of adopting prompt
and energetic measures to aid them, inasmuch as we
conceive the attempt of their employers as one among
the many to subvert the social happiness of the work-
ing portion of the community.
Resolved, that we rejoice to see our brethren of Phil-
adelphia resisting this hydra of oppression, and pledge
ourselves individually and collectively to make the
most strenuous efforts to assist them in throwing oflF a
yoke which no Republicans ought to submit to.
Resolved, that confiding in the increasing intelli-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS i8i
gence of the producing classes, we do sincerely trust
that every honest working man will come forward on
this occasion, to render assistance to the oppressed, and
teach the insatiate worshipper of Moloch, that the hap-
piness of the many shall not be sacrificed at the altar
of his unhallowed deity.
Resolved, that a copy of this be forwarded to Mr.
Thomas Hogan, President of the Philadelphia Union
with a request to have it published in the papers of that
city.
Resolved, that a committee of one from each Soci-
ety be appointed, to receive all contributions, and for-
ward the same to the Hand Loom Weavers through
Mr. Hogan. Committee -'N. B. Garden, Henry
M'Mullinson, John H. Baker, Charles N. Dodge, Rich-
ard Lee, Wm. Littell, Wm. Masters, Asa Scribner,
Matthias Cassaine, James Buckley, Peter Lydecker,
Geo. R. Wade, Aaron Reock, Alexander Major, Wal-
ter T. Pierson.
Resolved, that the receiving committee do meet next
Thursday, at 8 o'clock, p.m., to receive such monies as
may be collected. . . JOHN Paterson, Pres't.
National Trades' Union, Jan. 2, 1836, p. 2, col. 3. Meetings of Novem-
ber 17, December 15.
[November 17] . . . N. B. Gardner, from the
Committee appointed to receive contributions for the
Hand-Loom Weavers of Philadelphia, reported, that
one hundred dollars had been received for and sent to
them, directed to Thomas Hogan, President of the Phil-
adelphia Union. . .
Mr. Scribner offered the following resolutions, which
was adopted. Resolved, that in case of application be-
ing made to this Union for pecuniary assistance, by a
delegation from a Society or societies connected with
1 82 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
other Unions, such society or societies, not being bene-
ficial members in the Unions to which they are attached,
it shall be deemed necessary, before any action shall be
taken on such application, for said delegation to pre-
sent a certificate of their appointment, signed by the
President and Secretary of the Society making such
application, and countersigned by the President and
Secretary of the Union to which they are attached, ac-
companying it with a statement showing that their own
Union have or are about to take measures for their as-
sistance. Resolved, that no pecuniary assistance shall
be granted to any Society located in the vicinity of a
Trades' Union, until such society connect itself to the
Union.
Resolved, that we recommend to our various So-
cieties the propriety of paying two cents per month, in
addition to their monthly dues, agreeably to a sugges-
tion of the National Convention.
Resolved, that we conform to the wishes of the Na-
tional Convention, by sanctioning the appointment of
a committee to investigate the bearing of State Prison
labor on the interest of the honest mechanic.
N. B. Gardner was then appointed to visit Trenton,
and make all the necessary inquiry in relation to the
subject. . .
Credentials from the Hatters' Society of Newark,
appointing Mr. D. G. Doremus, and Mr. — Norman;
and of the Hatters of Orange, appointing Wm. Her-
vey as their delegate for the remainder of the term,
were accepted. . .
[December 15] . . . Credentials, from the Unit-
ed Society of Journeymen Couriers, appointing Wm.
H. Shififer in place of Samuel Day, resigned; and from
the Hatters' Society of Orange, appointing John Par-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 183
onette in the place of Henry Clinton, resigned, were
accepted.
Mr. Baker from the Committee to confer with the
Hand-Loom Weavers of Philadelphia, stated, that no
intelligence had been received from them on the sub-
ject.
Application for admission into the Union was made
by the Morocco Leather Dressers, appointing Mr.
Thomas Hargan their Delegate. They were elected
unanimously, and the Delegate invited to take his seat
in the Convention. . .
The Delegates from various Societies announced the
passage of the two cent tax, as recommended by the
National Convention. Adjourned. . .
National Trades' Union, Feb. 13, 1836, p. 2, col. 3. Meetings of Jan-
uary 19, February 4.
[January 19] ... A communication from the
Society of House Carpenters of Paterson, requesting
permission to remit their dues, without sending their
delegates, was read, when it was, resolved, that it be
optional with foreign Societies to send their delegates,
provided they remit their dues, and submit their roll
book once in three months, for examination. A report
of the Finance Committee was made. From said re-
port it appears that there are 1,168 members belonging
to the sixteen Societies comprising this Trades' Union.
It was resolved, that this Convention meet at Mr. Star's
Hotel for the future.
Mr. Cummerford, President of the New- York
Trades' Union, being in the house, was invited into the
room, who urged the necessity of a more general sup-
port of the National Trades^ Union paper by this Un-
ion; when the following resolution was offered and
unanimously adopted: resolved, that this Convention
1 84 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
use renewed exertions for the support of the "National
Trades' Union" paper. . .
[February 4] ... A communication was pre-
sented from the "Union benevolent Society of Journey-
men Cordwainers" the "Second rate Boot Makers' So-
ciety," and the "Journeymen Boot Fitters' Society,"
stating their intention to strike for an advance of wages,
providing the Union concur; the first for an advance of
twelve and a half cents, the second for seventeen, and
the third for twenty-five per cent. The request of each
Society was taken up separately, discussed, and sanc-
tioned. . .
National Trades' Union, March 19, 1836, p. 2, col. 2, 3. Meetings
of February 16, March 2.
[February i6] . . . Samuel Earl presented his
credentials from the Society of Second Rate Boot Mak-
ers, which were accepted. . . A statement having
been made of the grievances of the journeymen Book-
binders of Philadelphia, the following Resolutions
were adopted: resolved, that we view in the contest be-
tween the journeymen Book-binders of Philadelphia
and their employers, a principle of Republican equity
on the part of the employed, in demanding a fair and
reasonable return for their labor, and on the part of
the employers, that of the most aristocratic selfishness,
in resisting the rights to which they are indisputably en-
titled. Resolved, that we tender to the journeymen
Bookbinders of Philadelphia this expression of our sym-
pathy, and we pledge ourselves to use every constitu-
tional mode of relieving them.
Applications to the Union were read from the follow-
ing Societies, requesting its sanction to their efiforts to
advance their wages: the journeymen Hatters of New-
ark -Cordwainers of Orange- and the House Carpen-
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 185
ters of Paterson, for ten hours and thirteen shillings per
day. The applications were referred to a committee of
investigation, consisting of one from each association.
After a short conference, the committee reported -that
the applicants were justly entitled to the rise they asked
for. The report was accepted, and the applications
sanctioned.
Mr. Wilson gave notice that on the next monthly
meeting he would move for a committee to be appoint-
ed to revise the constitution.
Communications were received from the New York
Trades' Union, stating their intention to establish a
Daily Penny Paper, devoted to the interests of the pro-
ducing classes, and giving this Union an opportunity
to take stock in the concern, not to exceed two hundred
dollars worth, which subject was referred to a special
committee, to report at the next meeting, consisting of
Messrs. Green, Mellville, Littell, and Wilson.
[March 2] A special meeting was called for the
purpose of adopting measures to sustain the journey-
man Curriers in their efforts to advance their wages.
The convention, after due consideration, adopted a res-
olution to sanction their strike by a unanimous vote. A
letter from the Trades' Union of New York was re-
ceived, stating the difficulties of the journeymen Tailors
of that city. A special committee was appointed to
prepare a set of resolutions expressive of the views of
the convention on the subject, who reported the follow-
ing, which were adopted:
Resolved, that we conceive in the journeymen Tai-
lors of New York as receiving no more previous to their
strike than what they were justly entitled to, and do
condemn in the most decided terms the present tyran-
nical conduct of their employers.
1 86 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Resolved, that we coincide in the present stand made
by the journeymen Tailors of New York against the at-
tempts of their employers to reduce their wages.
National Laborer, July 30, 1836, p. 75, col. 2, 3.
[July 19] Whereas, we, the Delegates composing
the Newark Trades' Union Convention, have read the
late speech of Hon. Eli Moore, of New York, in de-
fense of the principles entertained by the Working class-
es, and in reply to the Hon. Waddy Thompson of South
Carolina, for having made a most shameful and ungen-
erous attack upon the mechanics and laboring people
in general, without cause or provocation, feel it a duty
incumbent upon us in justice to ourselves and in grat-
itude to Mr. Moore, for the ever to be remembered
kindness he has done us in defending our rights, to ex-
press our views of the principles he has advocated. Mr.
Moore, in his manly effort to sustain the character and
advance the interests of the workingmen, has proved
himself to be their friend, and is therefore in our opin-
ion entitled to their approbation for the course he has
pursued; the signs of the times must evidently show
that powerful exertions are now being made throughout
the country to oppress and degrade the Working class-
es; it is therefore our duty at all times, but more espe-
cially at the present time, to use all lawful and honor-
able means to maintain our rights and defeat our ene-
mies; all that we ask is strictly in accordance with jus-
tice, and we are determined at all hazards never to
compromise the principle.
Resolved, that this Convention fully approve of the
principles set forth by the Hon. Eli Moore, as being the
true principles of the working classes, and founded on
the rights of man and common sense.
six] OTHER CITY CENTRAL ORGANIZATIONS 187
Resolved, that we believe the principles advanced by
the Hon. Waddy Thompson, to be inconsistent with
the spirit of freedom and equality, and dangerous to the
rights of mechanics, and as such have been fully re-
futed by the sound reasoning and profound arguments
of the Hon. Eli Moore.
Resolved, that we consider the introduction of Mr.
Moore into the National Legislature, to be one of the
most fortunate and happy circumstances connected with
the interests of the Mechanics of the United States, and
forming a new era in the history of the working classes
in general.
Joseph L. Whyman, President.
Samuel S. Bassett, Recording Secretary.
VIII
THE NATIONAL TRADES' UNION
INTRODUCTION
The first organization of American wage-earners on
a national scale was brought about by an invitation from
the "General Trades' Union of the City of New York
and its vicinity" to other similar organizations to send
delegates to a convention to be held in New York in
July, 1834. Later this invitation was extended to trade
societies in sections of the country where trades' unions
were not yet formed. On account of the cholera, which
was epidemic during the summer of 1834, the conven-
tion was postponed until August and was not as well at-
tended as had been anticipated. It was estimated about
this time that there were some 26,250 members of trades'
unions in the United States distributed as follows:*
In New York and Brooklyn 11,500
Philadelphia 6,000
Boston 4,000
Baltimore 3j5oo
Washington, D.C. 500
Newark, N.J. 750
26,250
At this first convention there were some thirty dele-
gates from Boston, Philadelphia, Newark, Brooklyn,
Poughkeepsie, and New York, and the sessions contin-
ued through five days. Ely Moore, a New York printer
who was at that time president of the New York Gen-
eral Trades' Union, and in the fall of the same year was
* Working Man's Advocate, June 21, 1834.
192 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
elected to Congress, was made president; and William
English, a Philadelphia shoemaker and one of the most
prominent of the labor leaders of that city, was made
recording secretary. The convention early plunged in-
to a discussion of the relation of the movement to poli-
tics, and later adopted a constitution which created
merely a national medium of agitation without admin-
istrative or disciplinary control over local unions. Even
before the meeting of the convention a paper called the
National Trades' Union had been started in New York,
apparently under the special patronage of the General
Trades' Union of New York.
The second convention met in October, 1835, again
in New York. Forty-eight delegates were present from
Philadelphia, Newark, Boston, Baltimore, and the State
of New York (which furnished thirty delegates) ; and a
''corresponding member" from Boston. John Ferral
a Philadelphia weaver prominent both in the political
and trade-union movements of that city, was elected
president. This convention adopted a new constitu-
tion, which, however, was little stronger than the pre-
vious one. A committee was appointed to prepare an
address to the working men of the United States, and
a "Board of Commissioners for the Protection of La-
bor" was appointed to take measures to form trade
societies and trades' unions.
The third convention of the National Trades' Union
met in Philadelphia in October, 1836, with thirty-seven
delegates from New York, Albany, Newark, Pittsburg,
Reading, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, and
Cincinnati. This time Boston was not represented, but
Dr. Charles Douglass of New London, Connecticut,
formerly president of the New England Association of
Farmers, Mechanics, and Workingmen, and delegate
from the Boston Trades' Union to the National Trades'
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 193
Union convention in 1834, was admitted by vote to a
seat. The carpenters and hand-loom weavers were hold-
ing national conventions in Philadelphia at the same
time, and their delegates were also invited to attend the
meetings. Alexander J. W. Jackson of Baltimore was
elected president; Thomas Hogan, one of the most
prominent of the Philadelphia leaders, and editor of
the National Laborer, corresponding secretary; and
John Commerford, who had recently completed a term
as president of the General Trades' Union of New York,
treasurer. The significant work of this convention
was another revision of the constitution.
The new constitution shows a distinct advance and
even a change of character. The national union was
greatly strengthened in its financial position and its acts
were made, not merely advisory, but binding on the con-
stituent unions and societies. In 1834, i^ had been a con-
vention to promote agitation, in 1836 it had become a
federation to support strikes. The National Trades'
Union was always, however, merely a union of what
would now be called "city central bodies" and of local
trade unions. No provision was made for the repre-
sentation of national trade unions.
Before the new constitution could be fairly tried,
however, the panic of 1837 descended. The convention
of 1836 had adjourned to meet in Philadelphia in May
of the following year, and that it did so meet is proved
by a notice which appeared in the Public Ledger in-
viting working men and citizens generally to attend. It
is probable, however, that there were few delegates
from without Philadelphia and that little was accom-
plished. Thus disappeared in a panic and depression,
which the working men themselves had clearly fore-
seen as the inevitable result of the existing financial
policy, the first national union of trades in this country.
I. THE CALL FOR A NATIONAL UNION OF
THE TRADES
(a) INVITATION TO TRADES' UNIONS
The New York Man, May 3, 1834, p. 2, col. 2. This call was pub-
lished in the Working Man's Advocate, (New York), May 3, 1834,
and also in the National Trades' Union, July 12, 1834, the Phila-
delphia Trades' Union, the Boston Artizan and other papers.
General Trades' Union. At a regular monthly
meeting of the Delegates of the "General Trades' Un-
ion of the city of New York and its vicinity," held on
Wednesday evening, March 26th, 1834, the following
resolutions were presented, and unanimously adopted,
viz:
Resolved, that in the opinion of this Convention the
formation of a "National Union" would be highly
conducive to the interest of the working classes of our
Country.
Resolved, that an invitation be given by this Conven-
tion to the different Conventions of the Union to send a
delegation of one from each Trade comprising the sev-
eral Unions, to meet in the city of New York on the
second day of July next, to consult on such measures
as shall be most conducive to advance the moral and
intellectual dignity of the laboring classes, sustain their
pecuniary interest, succor the oppressed, and by all just
chanical Professions.
Resolved, that these resolutions be transmitted to the
different Trades' Unions of our country, and that they
also be published, accompanied with a request to the
mechanics of the cities of the different States which
NATIONAL TRADES' UNION
195
have not yet formed Trades Unions, to form the same,
and send Delegates to the "National Union."
Therefore, in accordance with the above resolution,
the undersigned would respectfully request those of
their fellow mechanics who have not formed "Trades'
Unions" to form such "Unions" and send their delegates
to the "National Union." Ely Moore, President.
James McBeath, John H. Bowie, Secretaries.
(b) INVITATION TO ALL TRADE SOCIETIES
National Trades' Union, Aug. 2, 1834, p. 2, col. 2.
"General Trades' Union." At a regular monthly
meeting of the Convention, held on Wednesday evening
July 30th, 1834, the following preamble and resolution
were offered by Mr. Robert Townsend, jun. and unan-
imously adopted, viz.
Whereas one of the objects of this Convention in rec-
ommendinig: the formation of a "National Union of
Trades," was not only to form a union of tradesin gener-
al, but a general union of trades in particular, therefore.
Resolved, that an invitation be given to the trade so-
cieties of those sections of our country where Trade
Unions are not yet formed, to elect one Delegate from
their respective trades to attend the National (Union)
Convention.
An invitation is hereby given to such trade societies
as feel disposed to elect one Delegate as their representa-
tive to attend the National Convention, which will be
held in the city of New- York on the 25th of August,
1834. Ely Moore, President.
James McBeath, John H. Bowie, Secretaries.
P.S. Papers friendly to the cause of the Working
Men are requested to give this an insertion.
2. THE CONVENTION OF 1834
(a) LIST OF DELEGATES
Tht Man, Sept. 2, 1834, p. 2, col. i. Also in National Trades' Union,
Sept. 6, 1834, p. 2, col. 3.
Trades' Union National Convention. Agree-
ably to a request of the National Convention, which ad-
journed on Friday, we publish below a list of the Dele-
gates to that body, their residences, and the bodies repre-
sented by them.
Massachusetts- Boston. Charles Douglass, Ben-
jamin H. Hammatt, J. L. Parsons, Trades' Union of
Boston and vicinity^ composed of sixteen Trades.
Pennsylvania- Philadelphia. William English,
U.B.Soc. of Journeymen Cordwainers (Men's Branch) ',
Thomas Hogan, Typographical Association] Thomas
Bedford, Cedar Coopers' Society; John Ferral, Block-
ley and Manayunk, Manufacturer; John Crossin, Sad-
dlers' and Harness Makers' Society; James Jeffres,
Leather Dressers' AssociationN 0.2; Michael Labarthe,
Association of Journeymen Hatters.
New Jersey -Newark. Howard S. Schenck, La-
dies' Shoe and Men's Pump Makers' Society; Lewis
Lyon, Men's Fudged Boot and Shoe Makers' Society;
John Helm, Boot Fitters' Society.
New York -New York City. David Scott, Journey-
men Tailors' Society; John Crygier, Journeymen Book-
binders' Society; John Short, United Society of Jour-
neymen Cordivainers (Men's Branch); Barnabas S.
Gillespie, New York Benevolent Society of Journey-
men Cabinet Makers; John Commerford, Journeymen
NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 197
Chair Makers' Society ; John Todd, Bakers' Trades Un-
ion Society, John H. Bowie, Journeymen Curriers' So-
ciety] Ely Moore, Typographical Association; Norris
Philbrick, Granite Stone Cutters' Association] Henry
E. Insley, Brush Makers' Society; William G. Bogart,
Ladies' Cordwainers' Society; John Smith, Associated
Silk Hatters; Robert Townsend, Union Society of J our-
neymen House Carpenters; John Brown, Sail Makers'
Trade Society; John Priestly, Leather Dressers' Asso-
ciation.
Brooklyn. Richard Sharp, Journeymen Tailors' So-
ciety.
Poughkeepsie. Thomas Haight, Journeyman Cord-
wainers' Society.
(b) PROCEEDINGS
These proceedings were published in The Man, Aug. 26-30, Sept. 2,
1834. Also in National Trades' Union, Aug. 30, 1834, pp. 2, 3 ;
and Sept. 6, p. 2, col. 3, 4.
[August 25] Mr. Ely Moore, of N. York, was called
to the chair, and Mr. Wm. English, of Philadelphia,
was appointed Secretary. The following persons then
presented their credentials and were received as mem-
bers of the Convention: Philadelphia- John Croslin,
Wm. English; Boston -J. L. Parsons; Newark- How-
ard S. Schenck, Lewis Lyon; Poughkeepsie -Thomas
Haight; New York- Eli Moore, John Crygier, Henry
E. Insley, David Scott, Barnabas S. Gillespy, John
Smith, Norris Philbrick, Wm. E. Bogart. . .
[August 26] . . . The following additional per-
sons presented their credentials and were received as
Delegates : New York- Robert Townsend, John Todd,
John Short, John Commerford; Philadelphia- John
Farrell, Tho's. Hogan, James Jeffers, Michael Le-
198 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
barth; Boston- Charles Douglass, Benjamin H. Ham-
matt; Newark -John Helm.
The Delegates then present resolved themselves into
a National Convention of the Trades' Unions. It was
resolved, that the officers of the Convention be a Pres-
ident, two Vice Presidents, Recording Secretary, and a
Corresponding Secretary.
Considerable discussion ensued as to the manner in
which the officers of the Convention should be chosen,
and it was finally decided unanimously that open nom-
inations should be made for the different offices, and
that the officers should then be elected by ballot, a ma-
jority of the whole being necessary to a choice. Can-
didates were then nominated; Messrs. Bogert and Jef-
fries were appointed Tellers and Mr. Labarthe Judge;
the balloting took place; Mr. Douglass was called to
the chair, Mr. Moore having vacated it, and the fol-
lowing persons were declared duly elected to the offices
named, on the first ballot: Ely Moore, President] B.
H. Hammett, Thomas Hogan, Vice Presidents^ Wil-
liam English, Recording Secretary \ J. L. Parsons, Cor-
responding Secretary.
Three o'clock p.m. The President, Vice Presidents,
and Secretaries took their seats; and the President, in an
appropriate address, returned his thanks for the honor
conferred upon him. . .
Mr. J. H. Bowie, of New York, presented his creden-
tials, and was accepted as a member of the Convention.
Mr. Townsend then offered a series of resolutions to
the Convention, which he prefaced by a few observa-
tions, elucidating his views in so doing. The follow-
ing are the resolutions, together with the committees
appointed in pursuance of them:
Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to draft
six] ' NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 199
an Address to the mechanics and laboring classes of
the United States -Dr. Douglass, Messrs. Labarthe,
Schenck, Townsend, and Farrell.
Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to draft
resolutions expressive of the views of the Convention
on the social, civil and intellectual condition of the la-
boring classes of the country - Messrs. Farrell, Scott,
Crossin, Parsons, Crygiere.
Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to draft a
memorial to Congress on those evils to which the labor-
ing classes are subjected, and the remedy for which is
within the Constitutional powers of the General Gov-
ernment-Messrs. Townsend, Schenck, Commerford,
Jeffries, and Parsons.
Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to draft a
Constitution for a National Union of Trades; also to
prepare a code of By Laws- Messrs. English, Hammett,
Hogan, Philbrook, and Gillespie. . .
[August 27] Mr. John Brown, from the sail makers
of N. York, and Mr. Thomas Bedford, from the cedar
coopers of Philadelphia, presented their credentials and
were received as members.
On motion of Mr. Hammett, of Boston, a committee
of five was appointed to report such other business ap-
propriate for the action of the Convention as might not
be included in the duties of the committees heretofore
appointed: Messrs. Hammett, Commerford, Bogert,
Short, and Moore.
Resolved, that the editors of papers friendly to the
cause of the Unions be requested to publish a list of the
Delegates, and of the Trades and places represented in
this Convention.
Mr. Commerford offered a resolution in relation to
state prison labor, which was referred to the Committee
200 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
on business. Mr. English offered a resolution in re-
lation to the laws respecting combinations, which was
referred after considerable discussion, to a committee
of five consisting of Messrs. English, Moore, Douglass,
Helm and Gillespie.
Resolved, that an invitation to attend the meetings
of this Convention be given to the Editors of Papers
friendly to the cause and measures of the Working
Men; and that the sergt. at arms be directed to provide
suitable seats for them. . .
Three o'clock p.m. Mr. Priestly, from the Leather
Dressers of New York, presented his credentials, and
was received as a member.
Mr. Douglass from the committee to prepare an ad-
dress to the working classes of the United States, made
a report, which was laid on the table. (The report rec-
ommended an amalgamation of that committee and
the committee to draft resolutions on the social, civil,
and intellectual condition of the working classes.)
Mr. Hammett, from the committee to report new
business, made the following report:
The Committee appointed to suggest such measures
or business necessary to be acted on by this Convention
as may not have yet received their attention, after as
mature and extensive a deliberation as the short time af-
forded them would allow, recommend the following
measures and resolutions for the consideration of this
Convention, and should any measure proper for the con-
sideration of this body have been omitted, they feel as-
sured the intelligence of the members will supply them.
They recommend that the Committee on an Address
to the Mechanics and Working Men be exonerated from
reporting to this Convention, and be empowered to pub-
lish their Address, when prepared, in such manner and
to such extent as they may deem advisable.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 201
They recommend that this Convention devise means
to defray expenses of said publication, and such other
expenses as may be attendant upon its sessions.
They recommended that the Committee on the Me-
morial to Congress be instructed to embody in said me-
morial a remonstrance against the manner in which the
public wild lands are disposed of; and also a condensed
statement of what manner of disposing of such lands
would be satisfactory to the Working Classes; and that
said committee be instructed to report at our next ses-
sion, such report being the order of the day until finally
disposed of.
The committee would propose the following resolu-
tions :
Resolved, that this committee recommend to the vari-
ous Unions which they represent, the adoption of uni-
form and energetic measures to procure a superior sys-
tem of Public Education by means of Manual Labor
Schools, patronized by the Legislatures of the States in
which they are located, than they have yet enjoyed.
Resolved, that in the opinion of this Convention, the
present system of State Prison Labor is highly injurious
to the working classes; and it is recommended to the
local Unions to adopt such measures to procure relief
from evils flowing from this source as they may deem
advisable.
Resolved, that a committee be appointed to prepare
a statement of the best means to be used to prevent the
reduction of wages, and ensure the reduction the hours
of labor.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
Benjamin H. Hammett, John Short, Ely
Moore, William E. Bogart, John Commerford.
The report was accepted, when a debate ensued on a
motion for the adoption of the first recommendation,
202 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
which was terminated by a call for the previous ques-
tion, which was sustained, and the recommendation was
adopted. The second recommendation of the commit-
tee was also adopted, and the third was laid over for the
present. The first resolution of the committee was re-
ferred to the committee on resolutions. The second res-
olution was adopted. The third was also adopted, and
the following committee was appointed in pursuance of
it: Messrs. Schenck, Jeffries, Parsons, Smith, and Far-
rell.
The Report of Mr. Douglass was then taken up, and,
after much discussion, it was resolved, that the Com-
mittee be united, and that they report resolutions to the
Convention on Friday morning.
Mr. Townsend then offered a series of resolutions in
relation to the social, civil, and intellectual condition
of the working classes, which were referred to the joint
committee on the address and resolutions. . .
[August 28] . . . Mr. Richard Sharp, from the
Journeymen Tailors' Society of Brooklyn, presented his
credentials and was received as a member.
Mr. Farrell, from the committee to draft resolutions
on the social, civil, and intellectual condition of the
working classes, reported a preamble to the proposed
resolutions, which was adopted unanimously.
Mr. English, from the Committee to draft a Consti-
tution for a National Trades' Union, reported the draft
of a Constitution. The report was accepted, and, on
motion, it was resolved that each article of the Constitu-
tion be taken up separately. . . The different arti-
cles of the Constitution were then taken up separately,
and all were unanimously adopted, with very little dis-
cussion. The Constitution as a whole was then adopted
unanimously.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 203
Mr. Schenck, from the committee upon preparing a
statement of the measures to be adopted to prevent a re-
duction of wages, and to establish a proper number of
hours for labor, make the following report:
The Committee upon preparing a statement of the
measures to be adopted, to prevent a reduction of wages,
and secure a proper number of hours for labor, after
mature deliberation, beg leave to report. It appears to
your Committee that the most efifectual step to be taken
for the accomplishment of the first purpose named, and,
in fact, for the general benefit of the laboring classes, is
the formation of Trades' Unions all over the country,
thereby promoting a concerted action in every branch
of Mechanical business by an interchange of feeling and
a just understanding of the difficulties under which
each may labor. The Unions should, in the opinion of
your Committee, be connected with each other in every
section of the country: the result of which will be the
dissemination of correct information from one district
to another, and from one trade to another; preventing
a surplus of hands in any department of business, and
securing to all steady employment and just wages.
With regard to the number of hours to constitute a day's
labor, your committee apprehend that no recommenda-
tions are necessary from this Convention as a body, the
separate trades can regulate this business with less risk
of discontent. They are the more convinced of the util-
ity of this measure, by reason of the uncertainty of fix-
ing a general rule for all parts of the country.
Howard S. Schenck, John Farrell, James
Jeffers, F. T. S. Parsons, J. Smith.
On motion of Mr. Townsend, it was resolved, that it
be recommended to the different Trades' Unions, that
every member of any Union composing the National
204 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Union be considered a member of the several Unions,
on his producing, within sixty days from its date, a cer-
tificate from the trade to which he belonged that he was
a member in full standing, and had paid up all his dues,
both to his trade and to the Union.
It was moved and carried that an Election of Officers
of the National Trades' Union now take place, and
Messrs. Douglass, Gillespie, and Jeffers were appointed
Judges of the Election.
The Convention then proceeded to elect officers ac-
cording to the Constitution. Mr. Moore was the only
candidate nominated for President, (Mr. English hav-
ing declined,) for which office he received 20 votes and
Mr. Townsend i, and was declared elected. Messrs.
Hammatt, Farrell, Scott, Townsend, Schenck, Doug-
lass, and Hogan were nominated for Vice Presidents;
Messrs. Townsend and Douglass declined. On the first
ballot there was no choice; on the second ballot the vote
stood as follows:
1ST V. P. 2D V. p.
Hammatt 14 7
Scott 7 I
Farrell 3 9
Mr. Hammatt was declared elected as the First, and
Mr. Farrell as the Second Vice President.
Mr. English was the only candidate nominated for
Recording Secretary, (Messrs. Parsons and Schenck
having declined.) He received 25 votes and was elect-
ed. Messrs. Commerford, Short, and Schenck were
nominated for Corresponding Secretary. Mr. Short
declined. Commerford received 19 votes out of 23, and
was declared elected. Messrs. Lyon, Crosson, Parsons,
and Short were elected the Finance Committee. . .
[August 29] . . . Mr. Farrel, from the com-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 205
mittee on resolutions, made the following report, which
was accepted, and all the resolutions unanimously
adopted.
The Committee to whom was referred the duty of
drafting resolutions expressive of the views of the Na-
tional Trades' Union Convention on the social, civil,
and intellectual condition of the laboring classes, beg
leave to report, that whereas all the actions and pur-
suits of man have for their object the possession of hap-
piness, that this object is attained in proportion to the
ratio of the intelligence and virtue of man individually
and collectively must be apparent to the most superficial
observer; and whereas society is conducive to happi-
ness, it being good for man to associate with his fellow
man, moral justice of necessity becomes the keystone to
the arch of the social compact, and the permanence and
value of all social institutions must be apportionate to
their utility and their degree of assimilation with the
principle of moral justice; and whereas the social, civil,
and intellectual condition of the laboring classes of these
United States, and the like classes in all countries, ex-
hibit the most unequal and unjustifiable distribution of
the produce of labor, thus operating to produce a hu-
miliating, servile dependency, incompatible with the
inherent natural equality of man. And whereas each
and every man is by nature compelled to consume the
produce of labor in the supply to his necessary wants,
moral justice would exact from every individual, when
not incapacitated by natural imbecility or accident, a
fair and full equivalent to society for that which he con-
sumes, and also that he should contribute his due por-
tion of labor towards the contingencies of society, for
the protection and security he derives therefrom; and
whereas the accumulation of the wealth of society in the
2o6 AxMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
hands of a few individuals (which has been abstracted
from the producers thereof by means of the erroneous
customs, usages, and laws of society) is subversive of
the rights of man, seeing that wealth or property only
can be justly acquired in three ways, viz. ist, by pro-
ducing, 2d, by exchanging labor for labor in equal
quantities, and 3d, by donation; it therefore becomes a
duty imperative on every productive laborer, who val-
ues the liberties of his country, the welfare of the human
family, and his own social happiness, to keep the evils
that exist in society steadily in view, that knowing them,
he may the more effectually direct his energies to de-
stroy the causes from whence they arise, and by a well
concerted union with his fellow laborers, concoct and
carry out into practice such measures as will secure, at
least to the present generation, the gratitude of their
descendants, for their having barked the tree of Corrup-
tion, and nourished that of Liberty and Equality, with-
out which life itself is a burden to its possessor;
Therefore, be it resolved, that this Convention, deep-
ly impressed with the conviction, that the primary caus-
es of all the evils and difficulties with which the labor-
ing classes are environed, can be traced to the want of
a correct knowledge of their own value as producers,
and the just estimate of their resources, would recom-
mend, that such of the working classes of these United
States as have not already formed themselves into soci-
eties for the protection of their industry, do so forth-
with, that they may by these means be enabled effective-
ly to make common cause with their oppressed breth-
ren, and the more speedily disseminate such knowledge
as may be most conducive to their interests in their re-
spective trades and arts, as well as their general inter-
ests as productive laborers.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 207
Resolved, that this Convention view the systems of
Education now in operation in these United States as
destructive of that Equality which is predicated in the
Declaration of Independence, because of their exclu-
sive character in giving instruction to the wealthy few
at the expense of the industrious many, fostering, by
means of Colleges, Universities, Military or Naval
Academies, &c., a professional Monopoly of Knowl-
edge, thereby drawing a line of demarcation between
the producers of all the wealth, and the other portions
of society which subsist upon the fruits of the Working
Man's industry.
Resolved, that this Convention do recommend to the
various Trades Unions, that they take into their serious
consideration the importance of an Equal, Universal,
Republican system of Education, and that they take
such measures thereon as may to them be deemed ad-
visable.
Resolved, that this Convention deprecate the sys-
tem now practised in the disposal of the Public Lands,
because of its violating the inherent rights of the citi-
zen, seeing that the whole of the unseated lands belong
unto the people, and should not be disposed of to the
prejudice of any class of society each and every citizen
having a just claim to an equitable portion thereof, a
location upon which being the only just title thereunto.
Resolved, that this Convention would the more es-
pecially reprobate the sale of the Public Lands, because
of its injurious tendency as it affects the interests and
independence of the laboring classes, inasmuch as it de-
bars them from the occupation of any portion of the
same, unless provided with an amount of capital which
the greater portion of them, who would avail them-
selves of this aid to arrive at personal independence.
2o8 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
cannot hope to attain, owing to the many encroachments
made upon them through the reduction in the wages of
labor consequent upon its surplus quantity in the market,
which surplus would be drained off, and a demand for
the produce of mechanical labor increased, if these pub-
lic lands were left open to actual settlers.
Resolved, that this committee view with serious alarm
the deplorable condition of the male and female chil-
dren employed in the cotton and woolen manufacto-
ries in this country, and the many privations they are
subjected to, arising from the early age they are put to
work in factories and the enormous length of time al-
lotted for a day's labor. This subject is earnestly rec-
ommended to the attention of the various Unions of
our country, and it is to be hoped that they will forward
memorials to the legislatures of their respective states,
embodying therein the outlines of such a plan as may be
approved by them, and it is also suggested that lawful
security should be exacted from the proprietors of man-
ufactories, for the education of every child employed
by them therein.
Resolved, that the laws existing in portions of our
country, under which Trades' Unions among mechan-
ics for the maintainance of their rights, and the correc-
tion of abuses, are declared illegal Combinations, are
a manifest violation of the Constitution of these United
States, and an infringement of the lawful rights of every
citizen: and this Convention do hereby urge upon the
serious consideration of every laboring man the absolute
necessity of their repeal.
Resolved, that as productive labor is the only legiti-
mate source of wealth, and as the productive laborers
have been deprived of the advantages of their labor by
bad legislation, it behooves this portion of the commun-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 209
ity to regain and maintain, by correct legislation, what
they have lost by inattention to their own best interests.
Resolved, that hereafter it should be the first as well
as the last duty of every laborer, to inform himself on
the subject of his equal rights and labor to promote the
good of the whole community, rather than to confer
privileges on a favored few. Signed on behalf of the
Committee. JOHN Farrel, Ch'n.
Mr. Townsend, from the committee of which he was
chairman, reported a memorial to Congress, which was
read and laid on the table. The Convention then ad-
journed to 3 o'clock, p.m.
Three o'clock p.m. A vote of thanks to the Common
Council, for the use of the Sessions Room, was adopt-
ed. . .
The Committee on "Combination" laws were dis-
charged from the further consideration of the subject,
in consequence of its being anticipated by the resolu-
tions reported by Mr. Farrel in the morning.
The memorial reported by Mr. Townsend was then
taken up, and, after some discussion, the Committee on
the Memorial was added to the joint committee, and the
memorial was referred to that Committee.
Mr. Hogan introduced the following resolutions by
some eloquent and appropriate remarks on the subjects
to which they relate : resolved, that we recommend to
the several Trades Unions in the United States to op-
pose resolutely every attempt to reduce their wages, and
to hold fast to any additions they may receive. Resolved,
that we acknowledge not the distinction which wealth
demands, and that we will refuse honor and office to
every man who does not promote by a good example
and deeds of benevolence the welfare of his fellow be-
ings. Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to de-
2IO AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
vise a plan for a general system of Education, and re-
port the same, with the most proper and practicable
mode of accomplishing it, at the next annual Conven-
tion of the National Trades' Union. The resolutions
were, after some discussion, adopted, and Messrs. Ho-
gan, Farrel, and English, were appointed a committee
to carry the third into effect.
On motion of Mr. English, the delegates from the
various Trades' Unions, were instructed to lay the sub-
ject of publishing the address together with all the pro-
ceedings of the Convention, in pamphlet form, before
their Unions, and communicate the result to chairman
of the committee on the address. . .
On motion of Mr. Schenck, the thanks of the Conven-
tion were voted to the editors of the Man, Working
Man's Advocate^ and National Trades' Union, for their
liberality in furnishing papers to the Convention. On
motion of Mr. Townsend, it was ordered, that the chair-
man of the committee on the address and proceedings
transmit a copy thereof, when printed, to each of the
members of the delegates.
On motion of Mr. Labarthe, the Convention dissolved
itself, and the delegates organized the National Trades'
Union, Mr. Hammatt, ist Vice President in the chair.
On motion, it was resolved, that when the Union ad-
journs, it adjourn to meet again at the call of the proper
officers. On motion, it was resolved, that the memo-
rial be signed by the officers and members of the Na-
tional Trades Union before the transmission of the same
to Congress. The Convention then adjourned.
[September 2] In our report of the last day's pro-
ceedings of the National Convention of the Trades'
Unions, we accidentally omitted the following: On
motion of Mr. Bowie, it was resolved, that the follow-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 211
ing papers, viz: the Man, Working Mans Advocate^
and National Trades' Union, of New York; the New
England Artizan, of Boston, the American Mechanic,
of Washington, the American Manufacturer, of Pitts-
burgh, and the Trades' Union, of Philadelphia, be rec-
ommended to the support of the Working Men
throughout the United States.
(c) DEBATE ON THE WORD "POLITICS"
The Man, Sept. 6, 1834, p. i, col. 2, 3 ; p. 2, col. i.
The Philadelphia union of 1828 here referred to was evidently the
Mechanics' Union of Trade Associations.
Trades' Union National Convention. The fol-
lowing is a very brief sketch of a debate on the word pol-
itics, which took place in the National Convention the
second day of its session; the following resolution, of-
ferred by Mr. Townsend, being under consideration:
Resolved, that a Committee be appointed to draft
resolutions expressive of the views of the Convention on
the social, civil, and political condition of the laboring
classes of the country.
Mr. Schenck hoped that the word "political" in the
resolution would be omitted. The proceedings of the
Unions, he said, were watched, narrowly watched, and
although he believed that in reality the term implied
nothing improper, it was misunderstood by many, and
might prove fatal to the interests of the Unions, by ar-
raying against them the force of one or other of the po-
litical parties. He therefore moved that the word "po-
litical" be stricken out.
Mr. Townsend opposed the motion. He considered
it bad policy for the working classes to allow the word
"politics" to be used as a bugbear by the aristocracy.
What, he asked, did politics mean, but the science of
212 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
government? It was true, he said, that Dean Swift had
defined politics to be "the madness of the many for the
benefit of the few," and if that were the true definition
of the term, he was opposed to having the Union take
any part in politics; but the Dean, he thought, must
have intended to define party politics, and in that sense
the definition might be correct. It was the right and
the duty of the working classes, he contended, to view
and review all the measures of public men and public
bodies, and to test them by the lever of equal rights and
the plumb rule of justice. If the measures of govern-
ment would not bear this test, who were the sufferers?
The useful laboring classes. It behooved them, there-
fore, not to allow themselves to be frightened from a
proper attention to their interests by a bugbear of the
aristocracy. He was by no means an admirer of the fed-
eral doctrines of Gov. Morris, but his definition of pol-
itics as "the science of the happiness of man" he had
ever admired; he believed it the best definition of the
term, and hoped it would be adopted, and that the word
would be suffered to remain in the resolution.
Mr. Douglass thought, with the gentleman last up,
that the word "politics" had been far too much used as
a bugbear against the working men. The policy of
every human being was to promote his own happiness;
whatever measures, therefore, were calculated to pro-
mote the welfare and happiness of the mass were essen-
tially the policy of the working classes. There was
nothing in that doctrine that ought to excite alarm.
Every good man was and ought to be so much of a poli-
tician as support measures calculated to increase the
sum of human happiness. Why, as a whole, were the
useful classes so degraded? The reason was obvious:
the policy pursued by their legislators was not their own
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 213
policy, not that policy calculated to promote their wel-
fare. They had become degraded by bad legislation;
they had got into difficulty by it, and how were they to
get out but by legislating themselves out? They could
only advance their interests by choosing such men for
legislators as were identified with them. They belonged
to no party; they were neither disciples of Jacksonism
nor Clayism, Van Burenism nor Websterism, nor any
other ism but workeyism. This Convention had as-
sembled because the working classes were partially
shorn of their rights, and because their interests had
been neglected, to devise means to restore those rights
and to have their interests attended to: this was their
policy, this their Politics, and he hoped that they would
adhere to them.
Mr. Schenck could subscribe entirely to the gentle-
man's definition of the word politics, but it was not so
understood and acted upon by the Societies. He spoke
from knowledge when he said it was almost impossible
to retain some of them now. He would therefore wish
that the Trades might first organize, and improve their
condition. It could do no harm to leave the word out
of the resolution. The delegates to the Convention
might agree, and probably did agree, on the meaning
of the word, but their constituents were not there to
hear what took place. He was therefore convinced of
the propriety of omitting the word.
Mr. Labarthe (if we rightly understood him)
thought that the Unions, for the present, at least,
should confine their efforts to a reduction of the hours,
and to maintaining the price of labor. He alluded to
the formation of a Trades Union in Philadelphia a few
years ago, which afterwards became merged in the
"Working Men's Party" in consequence of taking a part
214 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
in politics, and that, he said, was now extinct, as well as
the Union. He was in favor of striking out the word
political.
Mr. Townsend said it was by no means his wish that
the working classes of the Union should act with any
political party. They hold the balance of power and
could more easily obtain what they want by keeping
aloof from party. It was only necessary for them to
say what they want, and each party would be anxious
to adopt their measures. If the word political in the
resolution could be construed to favor [any] party, he
would say strike it out.
A delegate whose name we did not obtain, here ob-
served that he had express instructions from his trade
to confine himself entirely to measures calculated to
advance the moral, intellectual and pecuniary condition
of the working classes, and to extend the Unions.
The President here read an extract from the call of
the Convention, showing that its objects were "to con-
sult on such measures as shall be most conducive to ad-
vance the moral and intellectual dignity of the laboring
classes, sustain their pecuniary interest, succor the op-
pressed, and by all just means maintain the honor and
respectability of the mechanical profession." No dele-
gate elected under the call, he said, would transcend his
authority by voting for the resolution, which was a
legitimate subject for discussion.
Mr. English agreed that the subject matter of the
resolution was within the power of the Convention, but
the means to be used to effect their object might be
various. The resolution proposed to appoint a com-
mittee to draft resolutions "on the social, civil, and po-
litical condition of the working classes," and an objec-
tion to striking out the word "political" had been urged,
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 215
on the ground that it was intended to favor neither of
the two political parties; but it had not been said that
it was not intended to form a third party, which he
thought would be equally inimical to the interests of
the Unions. In Philadelphia, in 1828, the first Trades'
Union was formed in this country, and one clause of
its constitution excluded all political action; but, judg-
ing that the objects of the Union could not be obtained
without its taking a part in politics, many members
diverged from it and established what was called the
"Working Men's Party," and, from that moment, as
it advanced the Union retrograded, and though at one
time it embraced 15 societies, at the end of a year the
number was reduced to four, and the Union adjourned
sine die. The same cause, he said, would produce the
same effect. Already dissatisfaction existed. In Phila-
delphia two societies had refused to send delegates to the
Convention, and from Baltimore there was not one dele-
gate. Wilmington and the District of Columbia, too,
where Unions existed, were unrepresented in the Con-
vention. He thought it would be advisable to avoid
everything that might have a tendency to prevent a
general Union of the Trades, and was in favor of strik-
ing out.
Mr. Townsend expressly disclaimed all intention of
forming a political party. He thought the laboring
classes could do more by maintaining the balance of
power.
Mr. Ferral thought, from the shape the debate had
assumed, that the Convention would be liable to the
charge of being more acted upon by sound than sense.
All were agreed as to advancing their moral and social
condition, but this bugbear "political" was in the way.
If this word was a stumbling block, if the delegates
2i6 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
thought their constituents were only babes in knowledge,
why not feed them with pap, and as they advanced give
them more solid food? He thought it a great evil for
the mass to follow leaders; they had met with many
disappointments in consequence, and he hoped soon to
see a dififerent state of things. He thought that, under
existing circumstances, it would be better to strike out
the word ''political" and insert "intellectual." The
resolution, so amended, would be equally efifectual,
and could not be objectionable. It was not the term, but
the thing itself that was important. If the Trades
could form a perfect Union, by concert they would
disseminate knowledge; therefore if the word political
in the resolution was calculated to retard the formation
of such a Union, he would strike it out, as he need not
attempt to show that "social, civil, and intellectual"
would embrace all that was necessary, though he was
fully satisfied that the working classes would never
effectually remedy the evils under which they were
suffering until they carried their grievances to the polls,
and make them known by a judicious selection of law
makers. He moved, as an amendment, that "political"
be striken out and "intellectual" inserted in the reso-
lution.
The amendment having been seconded, the President
remarked that the resolution with the proposed amend-
ment, would embrace all that was necessary or desirable.
Let the intellectual condition of the working classes
be improved, and an improvement in their political
condition would be the necessary consequence.
[The amendment was carried, and the resolution
passed unanimously.]
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 217
(d) DISCUSSION ON THE CONDITION OF FEMALES
IN MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS
National Trades' Union, Sept. 13, 1834, p. 2, col. 5, 6. Quoted in The
Man, Sept. 17, 1834, p. i, col. i, 2, 3; p. 2, col. i.
Trades' Union National Convention. Sketch of
the Discussion on the Condition of Females in the
Manufacturing Establishments in this country.
Mr. Douglass said he rose to suggest to the members
of this Convention, the propriety, and the duty, of tak-
ing into consideration the condition and prospects of
the females engaged in manufacturing establishments
in this country. For himself, he considered it one of
the most important subjects which could occupy their
attention -a subject in which our future welfare was
deeply concerned.
He observed, that in the single village of Lowell,
there were about 4000 females of various ages, now
dragging out a life of slavery and wretchedness. It is
enough to make one's heart ache, said he, to behold
these degraded females, as they pass out of the factory -
to mark their wan countenances- their woe-stricken ap-
pearance. These establishments are the present abode
of wretchedness, disease and misery; and are inevitably
calculated to perpetuate them -if not to destroy liberty
itself!
[Mr. D. entered into a description of the eflfects of
the present factory system, upon the health and morals
of the unhappy inmates; and depicted, in a strong light,
the increase of disease and deformity, from an excess of
labor, want of out-door exercise, and of good air- of
the prevalence of depravity from their exposed situa-
tion, and their want of education, having no time or op-
portunity for schooling; and observed, that the decrepid,
21 8 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
sickly and debilitated inmates of these prison-houses
were marrying and propagating a race of beings more
miserable, if possible, than themselves- Ed. The Man.]
We talk, said Mr. D., of the rising generation! What
must that generation be, coming from such a stock of
disease and deformity? What a race, in comparison to
our hardy forefathers, whose iron nerves could second
their resolute souls to meet any emergency! It is of
little use for us to legislate here, said Mr. D., while this
factory system is undoing more than our united exer-
tions can possibly build up. It was his confirmed opin-
ion, that this system was laying the foundation of an
aristocracy; and is so intended by its projectors. He be-
lieved it to be a deliberate plot of the enemies of freedom
and equality, to ruin the farmers, to break down that
sturdy, independent spirit, so characteristic of the for-
mer race, so unpropitious to the future schemes of aris-
tocrats. They can command more money than the farm-
er, and are applying their "facilities" to draw his sons
and daughters from the farm to the factories. For a
few years past, the sons of our farmers, as soon as they
are of sufficient age, have been induced to hasten oflf to
the factory, where for a few pence more than they could
get at home, they are taught to become the willing ser-
vants, the servile instruments of their employer's op-
pression and extortion! The daughters, too, must quit
the farm house, the seat of ruddy health and former con-
tent, for a confined and baneful workshop, where, to be
sure, she earns a little more money, for a short time; but
as surely loses health, if not her good character, her
happiness!
What is the course the managers of these establish-
ments pursue? Knowing these adventurers have come
for gain, they commence a direct appeal to their feel-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 219
ings of avarice - persuade them to work overhours. Af-
ter a few months spent in excessive labor, these unfor-
tunate young people most frequently find, too late, their
constitutions destroyed -their health gone, and erelong,
they go down to the grave, to swell the list of yearly
victims of this pernicious system.
Mr. D. mentioned an instance he had lately heard of ;
it was of a hale New Hampshire girl, who came to Low-
ell for work. She, like others, was induced to commence
overwork, which she pursued for four months. At the
end of this term, she was compelled to quit: the blight
of disease had fastened upon her -the rose of health had
departed. She returned to her once happy home; and,
in two months more, was carried to her grave. This
was an example of many regularly occurring.
It is our duty, sir, to look to these establishments; to
calculate the consequences of their further spread. We
must look after these men of high percentage, bred to
that, and who care for nothing else. Who shall reform
this system but the working men? This is, indeed, the
most important work we have to do. How shall we
avert the evil? They resort to piece work, that we may
not be able to reach them. But we must devise a rem-
edy; we must appeal to the people to join, to set their
faces against this system, as one pregnant with our cer-
tain destruction. We must go before our legislatures -
must expose these "beings" -not to use a harsher term-
who destroy life for gain -who make their enormous
percentage at a yearly expense of hundreds of lives!
They must be forced to shut their mills at a regular
hour; there must be a certain time over which they shall
not work; that all the inmates may have an opportunity
to rest their weary limbs, and to enjoy free and whole-
some air.
220 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Mr. D. said he could honestly say, that no feelings
of jealousy or enmity had suggested these remarks.
They were prompted by a conviction of duty. He
spoke as a democrat- as a friend of liberty. He hoped
we might never lose sight of the blessings of liberty- of
a free government- to foster and promote the interests
of an avaricious set of aristocrats.
Mr. Townsend said he agreed with the gentleman
from Boston, that the condition of our females engaged
in the manufacturing establishments demanded our seri-
ous consideration ; he thought that the subject was one
legitimately within the bounds of our labor, and should
be acted upon by the Convention. It was the working
men who should have to reform the numerous evils
which oppress the producing classes generally. But he
was at a loss to see how it was to be done. Many of these
evils arose from political sources, and could only be
reached in that way; we ought to commence at the foun-
tain head. But, from the sensitiveness of some, in re-
gard to even the name of politics, he feared we should
be compelled to avoid every effectual means of immedi-
ate reform. He admitted it was our duty to avoid all
party politics; we must avoid Jacksonism, Clayism,
Bankism, and every other ism, but patriotism, he be-
lieved no one could object to that.
Mr. Scott confirmed the remarks of Mr. Douglass in
regard to the present condition of those engaged in the
manufacturing interests. The situation of the females in
particular was truly deplorable. They were, in a meas-
ure, in our trust ; and we ought to exert ourselves in their
behalf. We should appeal, as Mr. Douglass had said,
to the people and to our legislatures, to interfere for the
amelioration of their condition. He thought we should
act as a body-should demand a reform in this partic-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 221
ular. He could not agree with his colleague, that we
were debarred from all political action. He was sensi-
ble of the propriety, and of the necessity, of our avoiding
everything which partook of party politics; we should
unitedly and perseveringly go to work to improve the
condition of these oppressed females.
The subject of education had repeatedly been named
here. He was sensible as anyone of the importance of
it. The low prices, those in manufactories in particular,
were receiving, rendered it impossible for the young
to educate themselves; or of parents to send their chil-
dren to school. None of our good schools were to be
opened, except by a golden key. Some entire new
means of educating the poor were necessary.
Mr. Commerford admitted, that the picture which
Mr. Douglass had given of the miserable condition of
females employed in the manufacturing districts of our
country, was no exaggeration. He had informed us,
that they are obliged to toil almost incessantly for a mis-
erable pittance and had called upon this convention to
use its efforts to check the system. He wishes us to enter
into such measures as will protect them from the tyran-
ny which now bows them down: in short, we are called
upon to use our energies to curtail their hours of labor.
Now, Sir, I feel as deeply for the situation of these mis-
erable victims of the "American system," as any gentle-
man can; but in endeavoring to alleviate their suffer-
ings we are bound to look at the causes, and consider
whether we are able to accomplish any permanent good
in their behalf. If we can be satisfied that the manu-
facturing capitalist, from the profits of his business is
able to give those persons a fair equivalent for their ser-
vices, then it is our bounden duty to support by all hon-
orable means the measures proposed by the gentleman;
222 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
if, however, the employer can make it appear that he is
unable to reform his business to our wishes, from cir-
cumstances over which he has no control, then we must
be satisfied that our efforts will be unavailing.
We are aware that this country, from a mistaken pol-
icy, has become a competitor with England in the man-
ufacturing system. Our tariff was laid in order that
the basis of that system might be established; every ex-
pedient necessary to insure its success had been resorted
to by its advocates -every advantage has been taken
of wind, water and poverty, to fasten it upon us. The
example of England could not deter our statesmen
from embarking in this visionary project. All the mis-
eries of her laboring classes were overlooked; and we
were told that her riches accrued from the industry
and inventive genius of her people. It is true, sir, that
her wealth has arisen from these sources ; but it is equal-
ly true, that the moral degradation of her people may
be attributed to her manufacturing system. No one
will dispute that the same causes produce the like effects.
I am sensible that the staunch advocates of this system
might have foreseen its consequences; this grievance
which Mr. Douglass complains of among the females,
is one of the beautiful effects of this invigorating and
republican system. It is one of the machines which has
been introduced to jeopardise our liberties.
Mr. C. thought the proposition to improve the prices,
or regulate the hours of labour in the manufacturies,
could not at this time be safely entered upon. We are
aware, said he, that the compromise bill agrees that a
reduction of the tariff shall gradually take place. Well,
sir, this of itself will prove that the American employer
must reduce the price of operatives' labour, or increase
their hours, so as to meet the European capitalist in the
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 223
market. If he does not take such a course, it is evident
that he must relinquish his business altogether. View-
ing things in this light I cannot see that we can remedy
the evil Mr. Douglass complains of. If our capitalists
will continue, the only hope that I can promise them and
those in their employ, arises from the present agitated
state of England. If the people of that country should
revolutionize, and obtain a more liberal government,
one of the first measures will be to secure to the laboring
man a fair equivalent for his labor; the price of manu-
factured articles will rise in equal ratio, and the capital-
ist will be obliged to demand an advance in our market.
This desirable event would do more to promote the ad-
vancement of the American manufacturies, than all the
high pressure duties of government.
Mr. Ferral was agreed that the factory system was
one of no small consequence; indeed, he knew of none
which had been so much overlooked. When it was com-
menced in this country, when the "American System"
became the lion of the day, the pattern of England was
held up, as one worthy of our emulation. We were told
of the wealth she had acquired, and was yet acquiring,
by means of her factory system, and urged to follow her
splendid example. But they forgot to tell us, that the
wealth was to the few- that about three-fourths of the
nation were literally starving- perishing for the very
necessaries of life!
Mr. F. regarded the factory system which had been
introduced as subversive of liberty- as calculated to
change the character of a people from that of a bold
and free, to one enervated, dependent, and slavish. Any
one familiar with our factories must regard them as
contagious goals, where the dependent inmates are con-
fined in a state of servile slavery, and in impure air;
224 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
where their physical powers necessarily become en-
feebled, and their mental energies wasted and enervat-
ed. Even were health maintained, how is it possible
for the mind to expand and improve, which is engaged
from 14 to 16 hours per day in watching a few threads,
or the moving of a shuttle? All their waking hours ai-e
thus occupied; and what if they spend eight, ten or fif-
teen years in this way? The longer they exist, the more
contracted must their minds become. The older they
grow the less capacitated to act as freemen? What cit-
izens for a republic is it making of them? It was de-
stroying every requisite, every feature, characterising
freemen 1
Mr. F. thought the factory system might be continued
with safety. The people may control it; but it must
be so changed, that those who labour shall be better pro-
tected. At present, the capitalist had all the protection,
all the privileges, and all the power: he can sit in his
counting-room, and determine the destinies of hundreds,
or perhaps of thousands -can reduce the measure of
their pittance -add to their hours of labour -or turn
them out to beggary! . . .
Every patriot, every friend of freedom, must depre-
cate a system which fastens slavery upon future genera-
tions. He hoped the delegates would bear in mind the
evils which this pernicious system is entailing upon so-
ciety: and, although they could not act as a Convention,
he hoped every individual would feel himself obligated,
as a citizen of this free republic, to use all diligence for
the entire reformation of this system.
(e) CONSTITUTION
The Man, Sept. 2, 1834.. This constitution was adopted August 28, 1834.
Constitution. Article ist. This association shall
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 225
be styled the National Trades' Union of the United
States.
Article 2nd. Section i.-The officers of this Union
shall consist of a President, two Vice Presidents, a Re-
cording and a Corresponding Secretary, and a Commit-
tee of Finance, to consist of one from each Union repre-
sented in the National Union.
Section 2. -Three judges shall be appointed to su-
perintend all elections of this convention, and report the
result to the presiding officers.
Section 3.- Candidates for office shall be nominated
in open meeting, and shall be voted for with written bal-
lots ; and a majority of the votes given shall be necessary
to a choice; but if no candidate receives such majority,
then the convention shall proceed to ballot for the
two highest.
Article 3d. Section i.-This Union shall be com-
posed of delegates from the several Trades' Unions in
the United States, the number not to exceed one from
each Association or Society, and to be elected in such
manner as the several Unions may direct, and to hold
office for one year.
Section 2. -Each delegate before taking his seat in
the convention shall present a certificate of his election
signed by the President and Secretary of the Trades'
Union to which he belongs.
Article 4th. The objects of this Union shall be, to
recommend such measures to the various Unions repre-
sented herein as may tend to advance the moral and in-
tellectual condition and pecuniary interests of the labor-
ing classes; promote the establishment of Trades' Un-
ions in every section of the United States; and also to
publish and disseminate such information as may be
useful to Mechanics and Working Men generally; and
226 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
to unite and harmonize the efforts of all the productive
classes of our country.
Article 5th. The duty of the President shall be to
preside at the meetings of the Union, preserve order
therein, put all motions to vote when seconded, and shall
have the casting vote when the question is equally di-
vided.
Article 6th. The duty of the Recording Secretary
shall be to keep accurate minutes of the proceedings of
the Union, and do all other duties appertaining to his
office.
Article 7th. The duty of the Corresponding Sec-
retary shall be to write all letters for the Union, and re-
port at the annual meeting such correspondence as he
may have held.
Article 8th. The duties of the Finance Committee
shall be to compute the expenses of the National Union,
and each Member thereof shall draw on the funds of the
Union to which he belongs for his proportion of the
expense.
Article 9th. There shall be annual meetings of the
Union held and the regularly constituted officers shall
have the power of calling the Union together whenever
required by the applicc^tion of a majority of the Unions
herein represented.
Rules of Order, i. The President shall take the
chair at the hour appointed and call the Convention to
order.
2. The roll shall be called; and a majority shall be
necessary to the transaction of business.
3. The minutes of the proceedings of the preceding
day shall be read.
4. No motion shall be received unless seconded, and
no debate shall be allowed on any question until it shall
have been stated from the chair.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 227
5. When two or more members rise to speak, the
presiding officer shall decide which shall have the pre-
cedence.
6. All disputed questions of order shall be submitted
to the Convention ; when a majority shall decide without
debate.
7. Delegates shall invariably address the chair, and
confine their remarks to the subject under debate.
8. The Convention shall meet at 9 and close at 12
o'clock at noon; and shall meet at 3 and close at 6
o'clock in the afternoon, unless otherwise ordered by a
majority of the members present. All motions for ad-
journment shall be decided without debate.
3. THE CONVENTION OF 1835
(a) PROCEEDINGS
National Trades' Union (New York), Oct. lo, 1835, p. 2, col. 1-6',
p. 3, col. 1-3.
Convention of the Trades' Union. Thursday, Oct. i.
Morning Session. The Delegates from the differ-
ent States appeared and took their seats. On motion of
Mr. Slamm, of N. York, the Convention proceeded to
organize.
Mr. H. D. Bristol, of N. York, stated that Mr. Ely
Moore, the President of the Convention, was necessar-
ily absent from the city. Mr. Hamitt, of Boston, the
ist Vice President, was also absent. Mr. Ferrall, of
Pa., the 2d Vice President, took the chair.
On motion of Mr. Thompson, of Pa., John Commer-
ford, of New York, was appointed to act as Record-
ing Secretary.
On motion of Mr. Milo, of Albany, the Delegates
were called upon to present their credentials. Mr. A.
Jackson, of Baltimore, moved that they be read by
States -which, on motion, was adopted. Upon receiv-
ing the credentials, it appeared there were twenty-six
Delegates from the State of New York, five from New
Jersey, five from Pennsylvania, and five from Mary-
land.
On motion of Mr. Thompson, Mr. Seth Luther, of
Massachusetts, was invited to take a seat as a corre-
sponding member of this Convention. . .
Afternoon Session. . . Credentials were then
presented from the following Societies: the Asso-
NATIONAL TRADES' UNION
229
ciated Weavers of New York, appointing Mr. Joseph
Thompson; from the Ladies' Cordwainers of New
York, Wm. E. Bogart; from the Newark Union, Enos
M. Leonard; from the Brush Makers of New York,
Joseph Hufty; from the Curriers' Society of Newark,
Philip Wilson.
On motion, it was then resolved that this Convention
proceed to the election of officers. The presiding offi-
cer appointed as judges of election, A. L W. Jackson
of Baltimore, William Thompson of Philadelphia,
William E. Bogart of New York.
Mr. John Ferrall of Pennsylvania (being the only
person nominated for President) was, upon counting
the votes, declared by the judges to be unanimously
elected to preside over the union for the ensuing year.
The Convention then proceeded to nominate candi-
dates for the office of ist Vice President. The follow-
ing Gentlemen were then named: A. L W. Jackson,
Nathaniel B. Gardner, F. Milo, and William Cam-
eron. On the ballots being counted, Mr. A. J. W.
Jackson was declared elected. . .
A credential was then presented from the Stone Cut-
ters' Association of New York, informing the conven-
tion of the appointment of Mr. Hugh Gallagher as
their representative.
The Convention then proceeded to elect a Corre-
sponding Secretary; and on counting the ballots there
appeared 27 votes for Mr. Slamm and for Mr. Hogan
17 votes. Mr. Slamm was accordingly declared as
elected.
On motion of Mr. A. I. W. Jackson, it was carried,
that the different Unions appoint one member from
each of their respective bodies, to constitute a Finance
Committee. On motion, a recess of ten minutes was
230 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
approved to carry the said appointment into execu-
tion.
The term of the recess having expired, on motion of
Mr. W. R. Erwin, Mr. Wm. Cameron of Schenectady,
was appointed to represent the Union of that place,
there being no other representative sent to this Conven-
tion from that body.
A credential was then presented from the Mechanics
of Boston; from which it appeared, that Mr. Francis
A. Sawyer and Mr. Samuel Virgin were appointed as
their representatives. On motion, the credential was
accepted, and the delegates were invited to take seats
with the Convention. . .
Friday, October 2 . . . On motion, it was re-
solved, that an invitation be given to all Editors and
Reporters of newspapers, friendly to the Convention
and its objects, to take a seat in the Convention, and
that Seats be provided for them by the Sergeant at
arms. . .
On motion, it was agreed that a Committee of three
be appointed to wait on the Editors of the National
Trades' Union and Working Man's Advocate and in-
vite them to attend the Convention.
A Resolution was offered by Mr. Bristol, which
elicited a lengthy debate. An amendment was submit-
ted by Mr. Jackson which was finally adopted.
Resolved, that this Convention recommend that
each of the Unions herein represented, appoint one per-
son to constitute a Committee of General Correspond-
ence. . .
On the Officers taking their seats the President, Mr.
Ferral, addressed the Convention in a very eloquent
manner, and concluded by thanking them for the high
honor they had conferred upon him.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 23 1
On motion of Thomas Hogan, the proceedings of the
first session of the National Convention were read, and
approved of. . .
On motion of Seth Luther, the "Proceedings of the
Government and Citizens of Philadelphia, on the re-
duction of the hours of labor, and increase of wages,"
were laid before the members.
On motion, the thanks of the Convention were pre-
sented to Mr. Seth Luther, for the use of the above men-
tioned pamphlets.
On motion of Mr. J. Commerford, it was resolved,
that a committee, consisting of five, be appointed to take
up the unfinished business of the last session of this
body, and report thereon. Messrs. Wm. Thompson,
Leonard, Luther, Gallagher, and Paddon, were ap-
pointed said committee.
On motion of Wm. Thompson, resolved, that a com-
mittee of five be appointed, to devise means to further
the formation of Trade Societies and Trades' Unions
throughout the United States; and that said committee
be denominated, "Committee of Ways and Means."
Messrs. Wm. Thompson, Moulton, Erwin, Luther and
Murphy, were appointed said committee.
On motion of Thomas Hogan, resolved, that a com-
mittee of five be appointed to suggest such measures
to this Convention, as may be thought necessary to pro-
mote the welfare of the working men. Messrs. Wilson,
Milo, Remington, Hogan, and Commerford, were ap-
pointed said committee.
Mr. Murphy gave notice, that he would bring before
the Convention a resolution relative to a reduction in
the hours of labor on the public works. . .
Afternoon Session. . . The resolution of Mr.
Murphy, relative to a reduction of the hours of labor,
232 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
being in order, he prefaced it with the following re-
marks :
Mr. President. I would beg leave to call the atten-
tion of this Convention to a memorial I hold in my
hand, which was presented to the Secretary of the Navy
by the Mechanics of the cities of New York and
Brooklyn, praying for a reduction of the hours of la-
bor on the public works: which memorial he saw fit to
refer to the Board of Navy Commissioners, who re-
turned the petition to the petitioners, informing them
that it would not be for the interest of the government
to accede to the petitioners' demand, and that they must
refuse them what they asked for.
I now conceive it to be the duty of the representa-
tives of the Mechanics, assembled in this Convention,
to address the next Congress on this subject, setting
forth the injustice of taking our property in larger
quantities than is for our interest to give, and at the
same time refusing to give any more for it than other
employers are giving for smaller parcels. I look upon
it to be an insult to justice and humanity, to compel a
man to work from twelve to fifteen hours a day, under
the pretence that it would not be for his interest to
work less, as well as a perversion of the constitution of
our country, which guarantees to every citizen the pro-
tection of "life, liberty, or property." And as the me-
chanic is not possessed of any other property than his
labor, he has an undoubted right to dispose of it on
such terms and in such quantities as may answer his
convenience, and in so doing he has a right to be pro-
tected.
When Congress delegates power to any officer, or
set of officers, they always reserve the right to withdraw
that power when they see fit. If they have delegated
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 233
the power to the Board of Navy Commissioners, to
say how many hours the citizen employed in the gov-
ernment works shall work, it is now high time to with-
draw that power, when they become petty tyrants, and
pretend to dictate to the government what is for their
interest; for I hold that the people constitute the gov-
ernment, and that those who hold office are nothing
more or less than servants of the people.
I also hold that it is the sacred right of freemen to
petition for a redress of their grievances; and that
when any class of citizens so petition that their peti-
tion should get a fair and impartial hearing. When
any public officer refuses or neglects to give it that
consideration, he tramples on one of the most sacred
and invaluable rights of freemen, and he is no longer
worthy to be considered as a gentleman, nor fit to be
an officer of this republic. I now ask, has the Secre-
tary of the Navy, or the Board of Navy Commission-
ers, treated the petition of the Mechanics with that
respect which it deserves? Have they not placed them-
selves in the attitude of selfish employers? when they
should be the first that would set the example and man-
ifest a spirit of liberty, for which our government is
so famed. Should they not, as officers of the nation,
study the comfort and happiness of its citizens, and en-
deavor to do every thing in their power to elevate their
condition? Allow me then to inquire of the impartial
observer if they have done what the duties of their
offices required of them? I answer fearlessly, they
have not; they have abused a trust reposed in them, as
officers of the republic.
It now becomes the duty of every mechanic to peti-
tion the immediate representatives of the people for a
reduction of the hours of labor on the public works.
234 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
If this is not done we shall find that men will not re-
main there, as long as they can get work in any other
place; and it will be bare necessity that will compel
them to work from twelve to fifteen hours, while other
mechanics are only asked to work ten. Let us suppose
that Congress would not grant the petition, and that
mechanical labor was withdrawn from the market.
What would be the consequence? Why, we would find
that in a short period this great and flourishing nation
would be reduced to mere nothing. Since, then, that
labor is the source of all the real wealth of the nation,
and furnishes all the essentials, necessaries and com-
forts of life, why should the laborer be refused time
to partake of the comforts which his labor so plenti-
fully bestows on all? . . .
The right that a mechanic has to dispose of his labor
on such terms and in such quantities as may answer
his convenience, has been so often and ably discussed,
that it would be presumption in me to attempt to say
any thing on a subject so universally admitted and so
generally acceded to. I am of opinion that Congress
cannot deny us this right. For when the Navy officers
petitioned for an advance of their salaries, that they
might be able to support the "dignity of American
Citizens abroad," they granted them their request. And
can it be presumed that they will deny the citizen Me-
chanic a reduction in the hours of labor, so as to en-
able him to enjoy the comforts of an "American Citi-
zen" at home? No. For, Mechanics, we now have a
representative in the National Legislature who, to use
his own words, "will neither shrink from the task, or
despair of success;" and with such an advocate as this,
we have but little to fear from the aristocracy of the
House.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 235
The following is the resolution of Mr. Murphy, as
adopted :
Resolved, that a committee of one from each Trades'
Union here represented, be appointed to draft a memor-
ial to Congress, requesting a reduction of the hours of
labor on the public works. Messrs. Murphy of New
York, Kehoe of Baltimore, Scribner of Newark, Ferral
of Pennsylvania, Cameron of Schenectady, Schermer-
horn of Albany, and Sawyer of Boston, were appointed
said committee.
Mr. Erwin oflfered the following resolution, which
was accepted, and referred to the Committee on Ways
and Means: resolved, that it be recommended to the
dififerent Trades' Unions represented in this Conven-
tion, to cause a fund to be raised, to support and sustain
them in their exertions to promote the cause of the work-
ing man against the encroachments of a monied aris-
tocracy.
Mr. Thompson, of the Committee on Unfinished Bus-
iness, reported, that the committee on the "Address to
the Working Men" had not fulfilled their duties; and,
that the committee on "Education" were to report at
this session of the Convention.
Seth Luther then ofifered a resolution, calling upon
the committee on the "Address to the Working Men,"
to give cause why the address was not published.
John Ferral excused the committee for the non-per-
formance of their duties: which excuse was, on motion,
declared satisfactory.
Thomas Hogan gave his reasons why the committee
on "Education," appointed at the last session of the Na-
tional Convention, had not reported: and, on motion,
they were also declared satisfactory.
The committee on the resolution of Thomas Hogan,
236 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
relative to taking measures to promote the welfare of the
working men, reported through Mr. Wilson the chair-
man : which report was accepted.
The committee appointed to suggest measures for the
consideration of this Convention, which may tend to
promote the general welfare of the working men of the
United States, respectfully report, that they have con-
sidered the subject, and would propose the following
resolutions to be adopted by this Convention:
1. That a committee be appointed to prepare an
Address to the working men of the United States, urg-
ing upon them the necessity of forming Trades' Unions
in every section of the country; and also of using all
honorable means to enlarge these institutions where they
now exist.
2. That this Convention recommend to every Trades'
Union in the United States, and also to working men
where no such institutions exist, the importance of se-
lecting persons to deliver lectures to the producing
classes, on their social, intellectual, and pecuniary con-
dition inasmuch as we conceive it would be highly
beneficial to their interests.
3. That the whole proceedings of the last National
Convention, and of the present, be published in pam-
phlet form ; and that the Finance Committee of each
Union be directed to draw upon the Unions here repre-
sented for their proportion of the expense of said pub-
lication.
4. That we recommend to the different Trades' Un-
ions throughout the country, to oppose energetically and
honorably the present system of State Prison labor, and
endeavor by all honest means to prevent the parsimony
of our state Governments from bringing the convict
into competition with the interests of the already too
much oppressed mechanic.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 237
5. That we recommend to each Trades' Union the
propriety of directing each Society to fix a regular
price for their labor, so that an equality of wages may
be established throughout the country.
Philip Wilson, Francis Milo, F. T. Remington,
Thomas Hogan, J. Commerford- Committee.
On motion of Wm. Thompson, a committee was ap-
pointed on that part of the report requiring them to pre-
pare an address to the working men of the United
States, urging upon them the necessity of forming
Trades' Unions in every section of the country; and
also of using all honorable means to enlarge those al-
ready in existence. Messrs. Luther, Wm. Thompson,
and — Sawyer, were appointed said committee.
The other parts of the report were then taken up, and
unanimously adopted, with the exception of the one rel-
ative to the State Prison system, which, together with
the resolutions of Messrs. Gillespie and S. C. Thompson
upon the same subject, were referred to a committee,
consisting of Messrs. Cameron, Boggs, Milo, Virgin,
Wilson, S. C. Thompson, and Cooper.
Julius Moultin and Wm. Smith offered resolutions of
similar import; which were referred to a committee of
five, consisting of Messrs. Smith, S. C. Thompson,
Moultin, Bunker, and Kehoe. The purport of their
resolutions was, that the respective Unions be instruct-
ed by this Convention to obtain a correct account of
the number and condition of journeymen in the dif-
ferent cities and towns in which Unions are formed,
and report at the next annual meeting of the Convention.
Mr. Cameron, of Schenectady, offered the following
preamble and resolution, which were unanim.ously
adopted:
Whereas, this Convention having implicit confidence
in the course pursued by their late President, and know-
238 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ing him to be a warm friend to the interest of the pro-
ducing classes -they therefore
Resolve, that a special Committee of three be ap-
pointed to wait upon the Hon. Ely Moore, and request
his attendance here, as a member of this Convention.
The Committee consisted of Messrs. Cameron, Scribner,
and Commerford. . .
Mr. Seth Luther offered a preamble and resolution
relative to the condition of the operatives in cotton and
other manufactories ; which, for want of time, were also
laid on the table.
Mr. Wm. Thompson offered the following resolu-
tion, which was adopted:
Resolved, that a committee of one from each Union
be appointed to revise the Constitution and By-Laws.
The Convention then appointed Messrs. Wm. Thomp-
son, Pvcmington, Francis Gallagher, Leonard, Virgin,
Bogert, and Cameron. . .
Saturday, October 3 . . . On motion of Mr.
Sawyer, resolved, that Mr. Theophilus Fisk of Boston,
be invited to take a seat in this Convention as an hon-
orary member, and that a Committee of one be appoint-
ed to introduce Mr. Fisk; when Francis A. Sawyer was
appointed said committee -Mr. Fisk of Boston was then
introduced, when, after a brief and pertinent address by
him, which was answered by the Chair, he took his
seat in this Convention.
A Resolution was presented by John Brown of the
Sail Makers of New York, wishing to memoralize
Congress; which was referred to the Committee on Me-
morials.
By Julius Moultin, resolved, that a Committee be
appointed to enquire into the causes of the rise and de-
pression of Labor in the United States, and report the
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 239
same to this Convention. The following persons were
appointed said committee -Messrs. Moulton, Bogart
and McCalley. . .
The Committee on Ways and Means then read their
report; when, on motion, the resolutions of said report
were acted upon separately. A Credential was pre-
sented and read from the Glass Cutter's Society of New
York, appointing John Camblin their Delegate, which
was approved and the delegate invited to take his seat
in this Convention. (Report of Ways and Means re-
sumed.) The resolutions were all adopted with the
exception of the 3d Article, which, on motion, was or-
dered to lie on the table for the present. After the adop-
tion of the aforesaid resolutions, a motion was made that
the 3d Article be returned to the Committee for their
reconsideration.
On motion, resolved, that John Commerford of N.
York be added to the Committee on address to the Me-
chanics of the United States, &c. The invitation Com-
mittee then introduced Mr. Ely Moore, when, after a
brief address, he took a seat in this Convention.
Mr. Seth Luther presented a resolution as follows:
Resolved, that a committee be appointed to report
the progress which the ten hour system may have made
in the United States during the past year-and also
what cities and towns have adopted the ten hour sys-
tem, at any period of time previous to the present date,
and also report what causes have produced the adop-
tion of the ten hour system, in order that the Convention
may know what influence Trades' Unions have had in
producing such a desirable amelioration in the condi-
tion of the Working class, which was adopted, and the
following committee appointed: W. R. Erwin, Al-
bany; Mr. Leonard of Newark; J. J. Johnston, Balti-
240 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
more; Paddon, N. York; Cameron, Schenectady; Ho-
gan, Philadelphia; and Virgin, Boston.
Mr. Commerford then offered his resolution, with
amendments, which was referred to the Committee on
Constitution and By-Laws. . .
By John Commerford, resolved, that, considering
the disposal of the Public Lands of the most vital im-
portance to the Laboring classes of this country, a Com-
mittee of one from each Union be appointed to prepare
a Memorial to be presented to the next Congress of the
United States, and that said Committee submit the same
to this Convention. The Committee are as follows:
John Commerford, New York; P. Wilson, Newark?
Johnston, Baltimore; Cameron, Schenectady; Reming-
ton, Albany; Farrell, Penn; Sawyer, Boston.
On motion, resolved, that the Delegates who may be
prepared to report the condition of the various Unions
and Trades be now called upon to make the same to this
Convention. The Delegates then proceeded to report
and continued until a motion was carried for adjourn-
ment to half past 2 o'clock, p.m. . .
Afternoon Session. . . The Committee on Ways
and Means reported the Article substituted in place of
Article 3d, which had been returned to them for re-con-
sideration, which report was accepted; also two resolu-
tions were added, which, on motion, were acted upon
separately -when, after a short discussion, they were
adopted.
Whereas, Trades' Unions and Trades' Societies have
been found highly conducive to the welfare and happi-
ness of the working classes, not only in protecting them
from the constantly-increasing encroachments of capital
on the rights of labour, but in throwing off the weight
of excessive toil imposed on the producers of all real
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 241
wealth, by the non-producing class; and whereas, this
Convention believe that the formation and permanency
of Trade Societies and Trades' Unions, presents the
only security against the entire degradation of the whole
mass of the working men in the United States to the
level of mere beasts of burthen, similar to the situation
to which insatiable avarice has reduced many of the la-
bouring classes in Europe; and whereas, this Conven-
tion have seen, with the highest satisfaction, the very
great improvement in the mental and moral condition
of the working men in our beloved country, in conse-
quence of the formation of Trades' Societies and
Trades' Unions; and whereas, the competition in the
various branches of mechanical labour is constantly in-
creasing, both by the natural increase of our population
and emigration, it becomes highly important that we
adopt just and efficient measures to secure to each and
every operative in the United States the enjoyment of
the fruits of their own honest industry; therefore,
Resolved, that a board be formed, to be called the
Board of Commissioners for the Protection of Labour;
whose duty it shall be to take measures to form Trade
Societies and Trades' Unions in all cities and towns in
the United States, on such principles as are recognized
by the National Trades' Union.
Resolved, that the Board be authorized and empow-
ered to procure short, well-written essays, on the prin-
ciples of Trades' Unions, and print the same in pam-
phlet form, for the purpose of distribution.
Resolved, that the Board of Commissioners be com-
posed of one from each Trades' Union, and that each
Union, by the representatives in the National Conven-
tion, nominate its own commissioner; and the said
Board to be elected by ballot; that the officers of the
242 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
several Trades' Unions be a committee for the purpose
of advising w^ith their own commissioner, and that the
board be required to meet quarterly at such places as
they may from time to time designate; all vacancies
to be filled by the respective Trades' Unions in which
such vacancies shall occur.
Resolved, that this Board be empowered to employ
an agent or agents, who shall travel and deliver lectures
on the formation of Trades' Unions, and to render every
assistance in his or their power, under the direction and
control of the Board, to accomplish the objects which
the National Trades' Union have in view.
Resolved, that for the purpose of raising funds for
the use of this Board, in performing the duties devolv-
ing upon it, that it be recommended to the several
Trades' Unions to assess the sum of two cents per month
on each and every member of the Trades attached ; this
assessment to be paid monthly into the Treasury of each
Trades' Union, subject to the order of the Board of
Commissioners.
Resolved, that the Board be instructed to report
quarterly to each Trades' Union contributing to this
fund, an account of receipts, expenditures, and prog-
ress, of the Board; and to make a general and full re-
port at the annual meeting of the National Trades'
Union.
Resolved, that power shall be granted to Trades' Un-
ions which may be formed in the course of the ensuing
year, for them to choose and elect a Commissioner from
each of the Unions thus formed; provided always, that
such Unions comply with the rules and regulations un-
der which the Board of Commissioners are required to
act. Wm. Thompson, Julius P. Moulton,
Walter R. Erwin, Seth Luther,
Wm. Murphy -Committee.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 243
A motion was made, that the Convention go into a
nomination for a Board of Commissioners, and that a
recess of ten minutes for that purpose be taken. The
following persons were nominated for election: Mr.
Virgin of Boston, Cameron of Schenectady, Erwin of
Albany, Bogart of New York, Leonard of Newark,
S. C. Thompson of Philadelphia, and Marley of Balti-
more; and upon counting the ballots, the above-named
candidates were declared to be duly elected, as a Board
of Commissioners.
The Committee's Report on State Prison Labour was
then read and accepted; when, on motion, it was de-
cided that the resolutions be acted upon separately. A
long discussion here ensued, in which several members
took part. The Resolutions, with Amendments, were
finally adopted. The Committee, to whom was referred
the several resolutions relative to State Prison Labour,
Beg leave to report, that they have given the subject
that consideration which in their opinion it so seriously
demands ; and, after investigating the many aggravated
evils arising therefrom, and believing them to demand,
if not the immediate action, at least a general inquiry,
in order that all who are interested may have a proper
opportunity of understanding a question which has so
long agitated the producing classes, and which involves
their best interests; the Committee therefore recom-
mend to the Convention the following resolutions for
its adoption:
Resolved, that the Convention recommend to the op-
eratives in the various sections of our country, when
aggrieved by Prison Labour, to use all laudable means
against its increase, and take such measures as are in
conformity with law and good order, to eventually abol-
ish the present system of employing convicts; and rec-
ommend such other measures as will not affect the work-
244 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ing classes of these States, in a moral or pecuniary point
of view.
Resolved, that this Convention appoint a committee
of one from each State herein represented; and that
this body also recommend to the working men of other
States not here represented, to appoint a like commit-
tee, whose duty it shall be to ascertain how many con-
victs are confined within their different prisons, also
how such convicts are employed, and in what manner
the labour produced by them is disposed of, and at what
prices; and whose duty it shall be to report at the next
meeting of this Convention. All of which is respect-
fully submitted.
William Cameron, Samuel C. Thompson,
Philip Wilson, H. D. Cooper,
William Boggs- Committee.
A communication was received and read from the
Corresponding Secretary of the Mechanics' Institute
of the city of New York, tendering the use of their
Reading Room to this Convention, during the remain-
der of their session, which was accepted; and, on mo-
tion, the thanks of the Convention was ordered to be
returned to the Mechanics' Institute. . .
By L. D. Slamm, resolved, that a committee of three
be appointed from the delegation of the city of New
York, to draft a Memorial to be presented to the next
Legislature of this State, asking the passage of a law
to cause to be marked all Locks and other articles which
may thereafter be made in the State Prison, with the
name of the contractor and the prison in which they
may be manufactured; that the committee be authorised
to prepare their Memorial at any time between this and
the next meeting of the Legislature; and that it be the
duty of the committee to present the same at the next
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 245
session of that body. Referred to the several Trades'
Unions of the State of N. York.
On motion, resolved, that we adjourn until Monday
next, at eight o'clock, a.m. The Convention then
formed in procession, to visit the Mechanics Institute
Fair at Castle Garden, under the direction of the Ser-
geant-at-arms.
Morning Session. Monday, Oct. 5th, 1835. . .
On motion of Wm. Thompson of Phila., John Com-
merford of New York, and Robert McCally of Phila.,
were added to the Committee on Constitution and By
Laws. Adopted.
By Seth Luther, chairman of committee, on address
to the working men of the United States, that John
Farrell of Penn. be added to said committee. Adopt-
ed. . .
Unfinished reports were then acted upon; when, on
motion, the resolution with amendments on cotton man-
ufactories, as offered by Seth Luther, was brought be-
fore the Convention. Mr. Luther addressed the meet-
ing in a very lengthy and interesting speech, and the
resolution with amendments was adopted.
Whereas, this Convention consider it a subject of vital
importance, that the condition of the operatives in cot-
ton and other manufactories in the United States should
be essentially ameliorated, as we are satisfied that the
present system of manufacturing is a system of mental
and physical slavery, to which the sons and daughters
of freemen ought never to submit; therefore, resolved,
that a committee be appointed to report on the condi-
tion of the operatives in cotton and other mills, and also
the hand-loom weavers, relative to the hours of labour
required, the compensation received, and opportuni-
ties allowed for mental improvement; and that the com-
246 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL, SOCIETY [Vol.
mittee be authorised to publish their report during the
recess of the Convention.
The following persons were nominated a committee,
to carry the resolution into effect: Seth Luther, Wm.
Thompson, John Farrell, Samuel C. Thompson, and
Joseph Thompson.
A committee to act upon State Prison report was ap-
pointed, consisting of one from each State ; Commerford
of New York, T. Hogan of Penn., Virgin of Mass.,
Kehoe of Baltimore, and Gardner of N. Jersey.
Report of Memorialists to Congress, on the reduction
of the hours of labour on the public works, adopted with
resolutions :
To the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America.
The Memorial of the National Trades' Union Con-
vention convened in the city of New York respectfully
showeth, that your Petitioners are the representatives
of the labouring classes from various parts of the Union,
convened for the purpose of improving their moral,
social, civil, and intellectual condition, throughout the
community, and to devise means whereby we may re-
move the grievances under which they labour. And
as we consider that the present practice of labouring on
the government works from sunrise to sunset is attend-
ed with considerable inconvenience and hardship to the
workmen, as well as of no interest to the government;
we therefore deem it our duty to petition you, as the
immediate representatives of the people, for a reduction
of the hours of labour on the public works throughout
the United States. We are of opinion, that ten hours a
day is fully sufficient for any labouring man to work;
that more than this is attended with serious consequences
to the workmen ; and that, in many cases, weakness, loss
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 247
of health, and even life, are its known and frequent re-
sults; and deprives the labourer of time to attend to his
family and duties as a citizen, and allows none for men-
tal improvement; and that, as the ten hour system
has been so generally adopted throughout the Union,
it would be bad policy for the Government to adhere to
the old practice, as they have had the best and most skil-
ful workmen employed heretofore; and that, if they now
pursue the old custom, they will not be able to procure
any but indifferent workmen, as the best and most in-
telligent men will not work from twelve to fourteen
hours a day on the Government works, as long as private
individuals only require them to work ten; and that, as
a natural consequence, all the government work will
be of an inferior kind.
And, as the object of Government should be the hap-
piness and comfort of its citizens, it is in duty bound,
when any of them are oppressed, to remove all just
cause of complaint, as far as in its power lies; and as
those governments have crumbled to the earth that have
studied the accumulation of wealth, instead of the com-
fort and happiness of its producers; we therefore be-
lieve that, as we constitute the bone and sinew of the
nation, our complaints should be attended to; and that
we should be allowed time to attend to the duties of our
families, and the cultivation of our minds ; as experience
has proved that, to be virtuous, man must be intelligent,
and that vice is always found to exist in proportion to
the ignorance that pervades society. We conceive it to
be highly necessary that the labouring classes employed
on the Government works should be allowed time for
mental improvement, and therefore request that the
hours of labour on the public works shall not exceed ten.
We do not conceive that we demand any thing from
248 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
the government but our rights, which have been ac-
knowledged and acceded to by the generality of employ-
ers throughout the Union ; and, as our claims are found-
ed on truth, justice, and humanity, we consider that the
cause of complaint should be removed: and that our
government should practise those principles of liberal-
ity for which it is so famed, and prove to the world
that it practises them in fact as well as in theory. All
which is respectfully submitted.
William Murphy, Philip Kehoe, Asa Scribner,
John Farrell, Edward A. Schermerhorn,
Francis A. Sawyer, William Cameron -Committee.
Resolved, that the report of the Committee be
adopted.
On motion of Wm. Murphy, resolved, that the me-
morial just presented be signed by the members of this
Convention ; and that the same be forwarded to Mr. Ely
Moore, Member of Congress; and that he be requested
to use all honourable means to ensure its passage through
the House of Representatives of the United States.
On motion the resolutions lying on the table were tak-
en up and acted upon as follows:
By Joseph Thompson, resolved, that it is the decided
opinion of this Convention, that nothing would tend
more powerfully to extend and strengthen the Union,
and facilitate generally the interests of working men,
than the establishment of a well-organized and regular
system of communication and correspondence between
the several Trades' Unions; by the means of which the
combined intellect of the mechanics of the United
States would be concentrated in one grand focus, where-
by they would be enabled to make a united and contin-
ued effort until they had triumphed over every species
of injustice and oppression.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 249
By the same, resolved, that the most proper and most
convenient channel for such communications and cor-
respondence, which is at present within the reach of the
Convention, is the National Trades' Union newspaper,
published in this city; and, therefore, this Convention
recommend, that all public communications and corres-
pondence between the several Trades' Unions, shall be
conducted through the medium of that Journal.
F. T. Remington, resolved, that the more efifectually
to disseminate among the working classes the objects
and advantages of Trades' Unions, this Convention rec-
ommend, that the different delegates urge it upon their
constituents to forward their names as subscribers to the
National Trades' Union newspaper, published in the
city of New York.
N. B. Gardiner, resolved, that this Convention rec-
ommend to the various societies, to attach themselves
to some Union in the State to which they belong, when
convenient. . .
Afternoon Session. . . On motion, that the res-
olutions lying on the table be taken up -which, after
some discussion were disposed of as follows: Repre-
sentations of Local Unions -lost. On the system of Ap-
prentices -indefinitely postponed.
On motion of William Thompson- resolved, that this
Convention recommend to all trades connected with the
several Unions, to form their constitutions and articles
of compact on such principles as will induce all of the
same trade to unite themselves with the society of the
place to which they belong; provided always, that the
constitution thereof, be in accordance with the consti-
tution of the National Trades' Union. Adopted.
On motion of L. D. Slamm- resolved, that a commit-
tee of three be appointed from the delegation of the
250 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
city of New York, whose duty it shall be to revise and
cause to be published the proceedings of this Conven-
tion, agreeably to the resolutions already passed, and
that a copy be furnished to each society composing each
Trades' Union represented in this Convention. Levi
D. Slamm, John Commerford and William Murphy,
were appointed.
It was on motion -resolved, that the Secretary, E. A.
Schermerhorn, be added to the aforesaid committee.
The motion of S. C. Thompson -on correspondence
with foreign Unions, was, after a lengthy discussion,
withdrawn.
The report of the committee on the rise and depres-
sion of labor, was read and accepted.
On motion of William E. Bogart- resolved, that this
Convention recommend to the several Trades' Unions,
to adopt such measures as will connect more closely the
diflferent associations of each trade or art, for the pur-
pose of equalizing the prices of labor throughout the
various places in which such associations are lo-
cated. . .
The following preamble and resolution, by Thom-
as Hogan, were adopted. Whereas, in the opinion of
this Convention, the multiplying descriptions of labor
for females, is alike injurious to the moral and pecun-
iary condition of both male and female. A moral in-
jury, because the youthful female is driven from her
home, into workshops, to earn her own living- forced
to associate with men of all descriptions, and sure to
acquire the ruder habits of the males; and at the same
time untutored in the deceits of the world, and unfitted
by her situation and knowledge to resist the tempta-
tions to which she is exposed; thus losing all that
sacred influence which it is the peculiar prerogative of
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 251
woman to exercise over man -the inevitable consequence
of which is the destruction of the social nature of each.
A pecuniary injury, because the extreme low prices giv-
en for female labor, afford scarcely sufficient to satisfy
the necessary wants of life, and create a destructive
competition with the male laborer; therefore,
Resolved, that we recommend to our brethren,
throughout the United States, to oppose by all honest
means, the multiplying of all description of labor for
females -inasmuch, as the competition it creates with
the males, tends inevitably to impoverish both. . .
Evening Session. . . The committee to revise
the Constitution and By-Laws reported the following,
which were adopted:
The committee appointed to revise the Constitution
and By-Laws of the "National Trades' Union of the
United States," after having given to the subject such
attention as their limited time and means would admit,
present the following report: [Constitution follows
Proceedings.]
The same committee returned the resolutions of John
Commerford, which had been referred to them. They
were acted upon and adopted.
Deeming it as an essential and important principle
with the mechanics and working men attached to our
Societies, to carry the benefits of our united strength
the more effectually into operation throughout the var-
ious Unions of these States, this Convention feel con-
vinced that some plan should be devised which will
ensure the successful attainment of this object. The
experience through which we have passed, in the re-
cent strikes which have taken place, cannot fail to
direct us. The failure of our friends in some of their
demands, cannot be ascribed to any other cause than
252 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
that of hasty and undigested measures, conceiving the
defeats arising from such sources as easily remedied,
and being convinced that propositions for the preven-
tion of future embarrassments will be readily agreed to
and supported by the individual members of our differ-
ent Unions. Therefore, be it
Resolved, that whenever it shall be considered neces-
sary by any one of our trades to regulate prices or ad-
vance wages, so that there may be a corresponding
uniformity of prices in all places where Unions exist,
it shall then be the duty of each Union to concentrate
and use all its influence, both with opinion and money,
to cherish and maintain such trade until the employers
yield to its just demands. Adopted.
Resolved, that when the employers of any town, vil-
lage, or city, shall endeavor, by combination, to defeat
a trade from obtaining its just demands, the Union to
which the said Society belongs, shall be called; and
if ample proofs be adduced that a combination has
been entered into on the part of the employers, it shall
then be the duty of such Union to forward such infor-
mation to the various Unions; and if, after the accept-
ance of a communication of this nature, it shall be con-
sidered expedient, a notice shall be then transmitted
from each Union, recommending the officers of the Nat.
Trades' Union to instruct the Union whose Society has
been attacked by a combination of employers, to make
one general strike, until such employers cease their hos-
tility.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the different
Unions here represented, that we may the more effect-
ually maintain a healthy equilibrium of demand and
supply- and as it frequently occurs, that in some sec-
tions of our country, owing to the density of operatives,
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 253
the least fluctuation in trade, produced from dishonest
speculations or other causes, is immediately made to
operate to the injury of the laborer, by an attempt to
curtail his wages -therefore, in order that our objects
may be sustained, and our brethren secured from the
visitation of evils arising from such circumstances, it
shall be made one of the specific duties of the conduct-
ors of correspondence, to ascertain and provide employ-
ment for all such as may choose to emigrate to parts
of the country where the laborer's worth is more fully
felt and appreciated.
Committee on Public Lands reported they would
proceed to draft a memorial as soon as the necessary in-
formation could be obtained. . .
By Mr. B. S. Gillespie. Resolved, that the dele-
gates report on the Penitentiary System of their respect-
ive States, for the purpose of ascertaining whether the
laws for the punishment of crimes are so construed,
that justice is satisfied when the culprit has been sen-
tenced to, and become a mechanic. Laid on the
table. . .
Morning Session. Tuesday, Oct. 6th. . . On
motion. Resolved, that the Convention go into an
election for Treasurer. John Commerford and John
Brown were nominated as candidates. Upon counting
the ballots the judges of election declared John Com-
merford elected as Treasurer for this Union.
The Committee on ten hour system made the follow-
ing report which was accepted :
In Boston the ten hour system has made but little
progress ; and it is impossible to arrive at any conclusion
in relation to the progress of the system. At the present
time not more than one third of the Carpenters, and a
small number of the Masons have been employed on
254 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
the ten hour system. The Plasterers have fully ob-
tained and established the system.
In Schenectady, the Carpenters, Machinists, Mill-
wrights and Founders, copper, tin and sheet iron Work-
ers have succeeded in establishing the system.
In Albany and Troy, the Painters, Carpenters, Stone
Masons, Coach Makers, Machinists, Mill Wrights and
Founders, have also succeeded. The different trades
above named are all attached to the Trades' Union.
In New York City the ten hour system is adopted.
In Newark, N.J., the ten hour system, so far as your
Committee have learned, is generally adopted by out
door mechanics. Your Committee have also ascertained
that the Curriers, Coach Trimmers and Harness Mak-
ers, as well as those employed in the establishment for
the manufacture of shoes, have generally adopted this
wise and salutary system.
In Philadelphia and vicinity the ten hour system is
established. During the past summer, nearly all the out
door Mechanics struck and succeeded. Previous to
that time nearly all who worked by the week, were
obliged to toil from sun to sun, for a bare subsistence.
The coal heavers on the banks of the Schuylkill first
began the struggle against the tremendous power of
wealth and avarice. The strike was justice against op-
pression ; and the issue, for a time, was considered doubt-
ful. The Boston circular arrived and was reprinted
and read at the meetings of the Mechanics. All our
enemies joined against these powerless people, and de-
nounced them as disorderly and riotous. Merchants
met in the Exchange, and offered large sums to all who
would take the places of the strikers. Before they had
succeeded, however, the Carpenters, Bricklayers, Stone
Masons, and others turned out for the ten hours. Dur-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 255
ing the contest, the Trades' Union remained apparently
a silent spectator; but it was exerting an invisible in-
fluence in favour of the oppressed. Public opinion
was conquered by moral force. The city councils or-
dained that the labourers on the city works should not
be required to work more than ten hours per day. A
similar ordinance was passed by the county commis-
sioners. The battle was over and ten hours now con-
stitute a day's work in Philadelphia.
In Baltimore, Maryland, the ten hour system is gen-
erally adopted by the Mechanics. Respectfully sub-
mitted by your Committee. W. R. Erwin,
E. M. Leonard, J. J. Johnson, W. B. Paddon,
Wm. Cameron, Thos. Hogan, Sam'l Virgin.
. . . By Enos M. Leonard. Resolved, that this
Convention recommend to the mechanics of the United
States to form associations for moral and intellectual
improvement in every manufacturing town where it
may be deemed practicable.
Mr. John Commerford offered the following reso-
lution-observing, that the appropriations made by the
State of New York, for the purpose of Education were
of the most liberal character; and, if rightly applied,
would go far to elevate the moral and intellectual con-
dition of that portion of its population, who would m
time necessarily fill the places of the present operatives
of our country. He also remarked that he was led to
believe that some of the sub-agents who had the dis-
posal of the public monies of his own State for this pur-
pose, were not as zealous or as anxious to select suitable
teachers for instructing the children of the working
classes, as they might be; and he urged upon the dele-
gates the necessity of getting their constituents to ex-
amine and analyze, as far as they could, the different
256 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
systems of instruction pursued in their respective dis-
tricts of country. He also advised, that the moral char-
acter and qualifications of teachers should be scrutin-
ized; so that the next delegates to a Convention might
be able to embody in one report the result of such ob-
servations as might tend to correct any abuses arising
from the inattention of the w^orking classes heretofore
on this, to them, important subject.
Resolved, that this Convention recommend to the
different Unions and Societies here represented, the
propriety of advising their constituents to appoint spe-
cial committees for the purpose of examining the sys-
tem of education in the different States and districts of
country where such Union or Society may be located,
and report the result of their observations at the next
session of the National Trades' Union.
The resolution was, on motion, adopted. . .
Afternoon Session. . . Resolutions. By Wm.
Boggs, resolved, that this Convention recommend to the
different Trades' Unions, and Trade Societies to adopt
some immediate and efficient measures for the estab-
lishment of Libraries in the cities, towns and villages,
where such Unions and Societies are located, for the
use and benefit of mechanics and workingmen. Adopted.
By Wm. Murphy, resolved, that the thanks of this
Convention be presented to Mr. E. Cronly for the kind
and courteous manner in which he tendered the grat-
uitous use of his room No. 15 Park Row for the meet-
ings of this Convention, after the application of the
New York Trades' Union for the use of a room in the
City Hall for that purpose had been refused them by
the Honorable Corporation of the City of New York.
Adopted.
By B. S. Gillespie, resolved, that while we repudiate
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 257
the principle and practice of government in levying
high tariff duties on the importation of foreign mer-
chandize, we nevertheless conceive it to be the bounden
duty of our government, to protect the mechanic arts
that have grov^n up w^ith the country, and have be-
come, as it were, bone of its bone and flesh of its flesh.
Adopted.
By Seth Luther, resolved, that after the address to
the workingmen of the United States is prepared and
placed in the hands of the committee appointed to pub-
lish our proceedings of this and the last National Con-
vention, one thousand copies be published and placed
in the hands of the officers of the several Trades' Un-
ions to be by them distributed according to direction of
the delegates of the several Unions. Adopted.
By Thos. Hogan, resolved, that in addition to the
National Trades' Union, the proceedings of this Con-
vention be published in the Workingman's Advocate^
and other papers friendly to our cause.
By Wm. H. Campbell, resolved, that it be recom-
mended to the several Trades' Unions and societies con-
nected with the National Trades' Union, that in case
of a strike in any cotton or other manufactory, they use
every possible effort, to raise funds for the support of
the operatives, until their employers shall have acceded
to their just demand. Unanimously adopted.
By Robert McCally, resolved, that it be recommend-
ed to the several Trades' Unions, comprising the Na-
tional Trades' Union, to take into their consideration
the length of servitude of Apprentices. Adopted. . .
By William Thompson, whereas, this Convention,
having in view the interest of the working classes,
whether male or female, and having reason to believe
that the compensation paid for female labor, and es-
258 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
pecially for those employed on the Government work,
to be altogether inadequate to supply them with the
necessaries of life, and a great cause of the increase of
crime, as daily evidence proves; therefore, resolved,
that we view with feelings of strong indignation, the
advantages taken by avaricious and hard-hearted em-
ployers, especially the Government contractors, of the
females in their employ, by withholding from them a
fair remuneration for their labor, and by those means
enriching themselves at the expense of the poor help-
less females. Adopted.
By William Boggs, resolved, that the committee ap-
pointed to revise the proceedings of this Convention,
proceed to discharge their duty, and that said commit-
tee be compensated for their labor. Adopted.
By L. D. Slamm, resolved, that the thanks of this
Convention be presented to the editors of the National
Trades' Union and the Jeffersonian, for reporting and
publishing the proceedings of this Convention; and al-
so, to all editors who may publish the same. Adopted.
By Francis Gallagher, resolved, that the thanks of
this Convention be tendered to Mr. John Ferrall, our
worthy President, for the very able and efficient man-
ner in which he has discharged the duties of his office.
Resolved, that the thanks of this Convention be also
tendered to the other officers, and particularly to Mr.
Edward A. Schermerhorn, the Recording Secretary,
for the industry and ability displayed by him in the ful-
filment of the arduous duties of that office. Adopted.
Resolved, that the sum total of expenses incurred by
this Convention, up to this date, be referred to the New
York Trades' Union.
Upon the adoption of the above resolutions, the Pres-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 259
ident addressed the Convention in a very eloquent and
appropriate manner: after which the Convention ad-
journed.
(b) CONSTITUTION
National Trades' Union, Oct. lo, 1835, p. 2, col. 1-6; p. 3, col. 1-3.
This constitution was adopted on October 5, 1835.
Constitution. Article i. This Association shall
be styled the "National Trades' Union of the United
States."
Article II. The object of this Union shall be to
recommend such measures to the various Unions and
Associations represented herein, as may tend to advance
the moral, intellectual, and social condition, and pecun-
iary interests of the laboring classes; and to promote
the establishment of Trade Associations and Trades'
Unions in every section of the United States: and also
to publish and disseminate such information as may be
useful to mechanics and w^orking men generally, and to
unite and harmonize the efforts of the productive class-
es of our country.
Article hi. Section i. This Union shall be com-
posed of delegates from the several Trades' Unions in
the United States, and from Trade Societies in places
where no Unions are established; the number not to
exceed one from each Association or Society: to be
elected in such manner as the several Unions and Soci-
eties may direct- and shall hold office for one year.
Section 2. Each delegate, before taking his seat in
the Convention, shall present a certificate of his elec-
tion, signed by the President and Secretary of the T.
Union to which he belongs, or from the President and
Secretary of the Society he may represent, in case no
Union exists in the vicinity of such Society.
26o AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Article IV. Section i. The officers of this Union
shall consist of a President, two Vice-Presidents, a Re-
cording, and Corresponding Secretary, a Treasurer,
and a Finance Committee, to consist of one from each
Union represented in the National Union -and shall
be elected at each annual meeting of the Conven-
tion. . .
[Sections 2 and 3 are practically the same as Article
I, Section 2 and 3 of the 1834 constitution.]
Section 4. All vacancies in office may be filled at any
special or stated meeting of the Convention; and the
President shall have power to fill all vacancies that may
occur during the recess of the Convention.
Article v. A majority of the delegates composing
the Union shall constitute a quorum for the transaction
of business.
Article vi. The Convention shall have power to
constitute honorary members such persons as they deem
proper, and invite them to a seat in the Convention:
provided always, that privilege is not granted them to
vote or take part in the deliberations on any question.
Article vii. The duty of the President shall be to
preside at all meetings of the Union -preserve order
therein -and decide all questions of order- (such de-
cisions being subject to an appeal regularly made and
seconded) -shall give the casting vote when a ques-
tion is equally divided -and shall perform all other
duties that may by law appertain to his office.
Article viii. In the absence of the President, it shall
be the duty of the Vice President to perform his duties
according to precedency.
[Articles IX and X are practically the same as Ar-
ticles 6 and 7 of the 1834 constitution.]
Article xi. The duty of the Treasurer shall be to
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 261
receive from each member of the Finance Committee
his quota of the expense incurred by the Union, trans-
mitting his receipt for the same -to dispose of the funds
in such manner as the Union may direct- to pay such
bills against the Union as he may have proof to be cor-
rect- and to report, at each meeting of the Union, an
account of disbursements, and the state of the Treas-
ury.
Article XIL The duty of the Finance Committee
shall be to ascertain the expense of the National Union ;
and each member shall draw on the funds of the Union
to which he belongs, for his proportion of the expenses,
and transmit the same to the Treasurer: the amount to
be apportioned according to the number of Societies
in each Union.
[Article xiii is practically the same as Article 9 of
the 1834 constitution.]
Article XIV. This Constitution may be amended or
altered, by the concurrence of two-thirds of the dele-
gates attending the Union, at any special or annual meet-
ings.
Order of Business
1. The roll shall be called.
2. The reading of the minutes of the last meeting.
3. Unfinished business of the previous meeting.
4. Reports of committees, standing and special.
5. Miscellaneous business.
By-Laws and Standing Rules
1. Every resolution or motion shall, at the request of
the presiding officer, or of any member, be reduced to
writing.
2. When a question is under debate, no motion shall
be in order except to adjourn, to lay on the table, for
262 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
the previous question, to postpone, to commit, or to
amend.
3. Motions to adjourn, to lay on the table, and for
the previous question, shall be taken without debate.
4. A motion to adjourn, and the reading of creden-
tials, shall be always in order.
5. Every member about to speak, shall rise and ad-
dress himself to the presiding officer -confine himself
to the question under debate -and speak but twice on
the same question, unless by permission from the Con-
vention.
6. When two or more members rise at the same time,
the Chair shall name the member to whom precedence
is given.
7. When a motion or resolution has been decided
upon, it shall be in order for any member of the major-
ity to move a re-consideration ; but no discussion on the
main question shall be allowed on the motion to recon-
sider.
8. The previous question shall be in this form:
"Shall the main question be now put?" It shall be ad-
mitted only when demanded by a majority of the Un-
ion; and, until decided, all discussions on the main
question shall be precluded.
9. If an appeal be made from the decision of the
Chair, the presiding officer shall put the following
question "Shall the appeal be heard?" which shall be
decided without debate.
10. If it be decided to hear the appeal, no person
shall speak but once on the question -the Chair having
the preference. The Chair shall then put the question,
"Shall the decision of the Chair be sustained?" which
shall be decided by a majority of the Convention.
11. If a division of the house be called for, the Re-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 263
cording Secretary shall count the voters on each side,
and the Chair announce the result.
12. At the request of one-fifth of the members pres-
ent, the ayes and noes on any question may be taken, and
entered on the minutes.
13. Any question or motion regularly made and sec-
onded, may be discussed in a Committee of the Whole,
the President appointing a Chairman, who shall report
to him, on the rising of the committee, its decision -
which shall be entered on the minutes.
14. The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole
shall, for the time being, be invested with all the power
of the President.
15. Any rule or by-law may be suspended in its oper-
ation, for any particular occasion, by the concurrence
of two-thirds of the members present.
16. The Convention shall, as soon as practicable after
its organization, proceed to appoint Standing Com-
mittees, on such prominent questions as shall seem
likely to come before them for their deliberation and
action.
Wm. Thompson, F. T. Remington, Frs. Gallagher,
Samuel Virgin, E. M. Leonard, Wm. E. Bogart,
Wm. Cameron, J. Commerford, Robt. McCalley-
Committee.
4. THE CONVENTION OF 1836
(a) CALL FOR THE CONVENTION
National Laborer (Philadelphia), Sept. 3, 1836, p. 95, col. 3.
To the Trades' Unions in the U.S. The officers
of the National Trades' Union having unanimously
agreed upon the time and place for holding the next
annual meeting of that body, the Trades' Unions of the
United States are therefore notified that the Convention
will be held at Philadelphia, on the 4th Monday in
October. Agreeably to the constitution of the Nation-
al Trades' Union, the delegates must be chosen by the
Trades' Unions to which they belong, and any number
may be so chosen, provided that there be not more than
one for each Trade or Society composing said Union.
But where a Trade Society is established in a place
where there is no Union, such Society may send what-
ever number of representatives they may deem proper.
In all cases, the delegates must come with credentials
from the officers of the body they are chosen to repre-
sent.
Every Union in the country is earnestly solicited to
send a representation. By authority of the officers. -
President, John Ferral, Philadelphia; Vice Presidents,
A. I. W. Jackson, Baltimore, N. B. Garden, Newark;
Recording Secretary, E. Schermerhorn, Albany.
Thomas Hogan, Cor. Sec. N. T. U.
Editors of papers friendly to the prosperity of the
working people, will aid the cause by publishing the
above.
Philadelphia, ist September, 1836.
NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 265
(b) PROCEEDINGS
National Laborer, Oct. 29, Nov. 5 and 12, 1836.
Military Hall, Monday Morning, Oct. 24th, 1836.
The Convention of the National Union was opened
this morning. The President, John Ferral, took the
chair, and Thomas Hogan acted as Secretary. The
President having read the call of the Convention, it was
resolved that the delegates exhibit their credentials,
which were accordingly read and accepted in the fol-
lowing order:
From the state of New York, New York City- John
Commerford, Levi D. Slamm, Barnabas S. Gillespie,
Wm. Murphy, Roswell C. Bowie. Albany- F. T.
Remington and Amaziah Whitney.
New Jersey, Newark- George Wier, N. B. Gard-
ner, and Charles F. D. Jones.
Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh -James Murray. Read-
ing-John Darragh. Philadelphia- S. C. Thompson,
John Crossin, Thomas Hogan, John Ferral, Joseph D.
Miller, Wm. Thompson, John Hays, Eli Dillin, Wm.
D. Jones, Joshua S. Fletcher, Ephraim F. Dubois, and
Wm. Gunn.
Maryland, Baltimore -A. J. W. Jackson, Francis
Gallagher, Samuel C. Forbes, Daniel A. Piper, Phillip
Adams, George Waterton, Wm. D. Roberts.
District of Columbia, Washington -James Doug-
lass, and James F. Halliday.
Ohio, Cincinnati -David S. Snellbaker, Mark P.
Taylor.
The names of the delegates were then called and were
all present.
On motion of Thomas Hogan, Dr. Charles Doug-
lass, of New London, Connecticut, was unanimously
266 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
admitted to a seat in the Convention. Dr. Douglass re-
turned thanks to the Convention in a very happy style,
for the honour conferred him, and accepted the ofifer
tendered him.
The President then, in a very eloquent address, gave a
glowing account of the progress of the cause of the
workingmen during the past year.
On motion of Wm. Thompson, the Constitution and
By-laws of the National Union were then read.
On motion of John Crossin, it was resolved that we
proceed to an election for president.
Geo. Wier, Eli Dillin, John Commerford, were ap-
pointed Judges, and the Convention then adjourned
for fifteen minutes. David S. Snellbaker, of Cincinnati,
James Murray, of Pittsburgh, John Commerford, of
New York, A. J. W. Jackson, of Baltimore, John Cros-
sin, of Philadelphia, were nominated for the office of
President.
When the Convention reorganized, the Judges of the
election reported that Alexander J. W. Jackson of Bal-
timore was duly elected President.
Mr. Jackson tendered his thanks to the convention
for this expression of their confidence, and accepted the
trust. . .
And after the election was held, the Judges reported
that James Murray, of Pittsburgh, was elected first
Vice President, and Amaziah Whitney, of Albany, was
elected second Vice President. . .
Afternoon, 3 o'clock. The Convention proceeded to
ballot for the remainder of the officers; after which the
judges reported that Thomas Hogan was duly elected
Corresponding Secretary, and John Commerford was
duly elected Treasurer. There being no choice for a
Recording Secretary, the Convention held a second bal-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 267
lot, which resulted in the choice of Joseph D. Miller,
of Philadelphia.
The Convention then proceeded to the nomination of
a Finance Committee, when the following named gen-
tlemen were nominated: Messrs. Wm. Thompson and
Wm. D. Jones, of Philadelphia, Levi D. Slamm, of
New York, Charles Jones, of Newark, Phillip Adams,
of Baltimore, James Douglass, District of Columbia,
David S. Snellbaker, of Cincinnati, James Murray, of
Pittsburgh, and F. T. Remington, of Albany. There be-
ing no opposition, except in the nomination from Phila-
delphia, the Judges, after a ballot, declared Messrs. Wm.
Thompson, Charles Jones, Adams, Douglass, Snellbak-
er, Murray, and Remington, duly elected.
On motion of John Ferral, of Philadelphia, the pro-
ceedings of the last National Convention were read and
approved.
Mr. Crossin, of Philadelphia, offered the following
resolutions, which were adopted.
Resolved, that the various delegations sitting in this
Union, be authorized to report the numerical strength
of their various Unions and Societies, with all other im-
portant and statistical accounts calculated to give more
extensive knowledge of the standing and prospects of
each Union and Society.
Resolved, that hereafter it shall be the duty of the
representatives of each Union or Society, sitting in the
National Union, to give a full and explicit statement of
the standing and numbers of their Unions or Societies,
and such other information as may be conducive of ben-
efit to the laboring classes throughout the United States.
Military Hall, Tuesday, October 25th.
. . . Agreeably to the resolution offered last eve-
ning by Mr. Crossin, the delegates proceeded to report
268 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
on the state of the various Unions. The reports being
principally given verbally, were not noted down; but
were all calculated to give satisfaction for past, and
encouragement for future exertion.
The credentials of Mr. Joseph Thompson as a dele-
gate to this convention from the Associated Weavers of
New York, were read and accepted, and the gentle-
man took his seat.
Mr. Wm. Thompson offered the following resolu-
tion. Resolved, that Standing Committees of five each,
be appointed under the following denomination.
Committee on Trades' Unions; Committee on Co-
operation; Committee on Education; Committee on
Public Lands; Committee of Ways and Means; Com-
mittee on State Prison Labor; Committee on Factory
System ; Committee on Female Labor.
Moved that the subject of each Committee be taken
up, and discussed separately.
Committee on Trades' Unions, adopted; Committee
on Co-operation, a Committee on Education, a Commit-
tee on Public Lands, taken up, when a motion was made
to lay the subject on the table. The motion not being
debatable according to the By-laws, a motion was then
made by Mr. Hogan, that the operation of the By-law
be suspended, so as to allow the question to be debated;
the question was put from the chair, and lost; Mr. Cros-
sin then moved that the words "Public Lands" be
stricken out, and the word Banking be inserted. Moved
that the amendment lay on the table; the ayes and nays
were called, when the following was the result: ayes,
20. Nays, 12. [Names omitted.] The original ques-
tion was then called, the discussion of which occupied
the convention until the hour of adjournment, when the
convention adjourned until half past two o'clock.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 269
Afternoon Session, October 25th. The discussion
of the question of a Committee on Public Lands was
resumed, when Mr. Piper called the previous question;
the chair sustained the call-an appeal was made to the
decision of the chair, when on motion, the decision was
sustained.
The main question being then put was lost.
On motion, the appointment of a Committee of Ways
and Means was dispensed with, as the business was
thought to belong to the Committee of Finance. The
Committee on State Prison Labor was agreed to. The
Committee on Female Labor was agreed to. On motion
of Wm. D. Jones, that the proceedings of the convention
of 1835 be referred to a Committee of three, with in-
structions to report the unfinished business thereof, to-
gether with such suggestions therein, as they may think
will advance the general interests of this convention.
On motion of Mr. Dillin, resolved, that the con-
vention proceed to fill the different Committees in the
order in which they have passed. The Committees were
then filled, and stand as follows:
I St. Trades' Union -F. T. Remington, D. S. Snell-
baker, John Darragh, Wm. Murphy and B. S. Gil-
lespie.
2d. Co-operation- W. Thompson, Eli Dillin, John
Commerford and David S. Snellbaker.
3d. Education -Thomas Hogan, Chas. Douglass,
Daniel A. Piper, Charles F. D. Jones and Francis Gal-
lagher.
4th. State Prison Labor-J. Commerford, W. D.
Roberts, L. D. Slamm, J. F. Halliday and N. B.
Gardner.
5th. Factory System- John Hays, Joseph Thompson,
Samuel C. Thompson, Philip Adams and John Ferral.
270 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
6th. Female Labor-James Murray, Joshua S.
Fletcher, John Crossin, E. F. Dubois and Chas. F. D.
Jones.
7th. On the Unfinished Business of last year-Wm.
D. Jones, John Commerford and Samuel C. Thompson.
On motion of John Crossin, Mr. William English
was requested to take a seat in the convention and par-
ticipate in its deliberatons. Mr. English being present,
returned his thanks to the convention for the favor
granted.
Mr. Snellbaker of Cincinnati, offered the following
resolution: resolved, that a committee of three be ap-
pointed to enquire into the sources of the great system of
speculation, by which they who produce nothing re-
ceive nearly all the products of the labor of those that
produce, while they who produce all receive but a mite
of their own labor, and to report on the best course to
be pursued to secure to all the full reward of their own
industry.
The resolution drew forth the eloquence of several
members of the delegation, and on motion of Mr. Fer-
ral, was amended, by striking out Committee of three
and inserting Committee on Education. It was then re-
ferred accordingly.
On motion of Samuel C. Thompson, resolved, that the
Editor of the Public Ledger, John Thompson, printer,
and all Editors known to be friendly to the cause of the
Working classes, be invited to attend the present sit-
tings of this convention.
Mr. Gillespie offered the following resolution: re-
solved, that a Committee of five be appointed to draft
a Memorial to Congress, against the practice of selling
our Public Lands to the citizens or subjects of any for-
eign nation, and for the passage of a law, by which none
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 271
but citizens of the United States, or those who reside
amongst us and have declared their intentions to become
so, shall hereafter hold titles to any lands under the jur-
isdiction of the United States Government.
Mr. Hogan moved to strike out all after the words
''Public Lands," and insert, "and for the purpose of
having a law passed by which none but actual settlers
may have a claim thereto." . .
Morning Session, October 26th. . . On motion
of Mr. Gallagher, resolved, that the members of the
Convention of hand loom weavers and of the Conven-
tion of Carpenters now assembled in this city, be re-
spectfully invited to attend the sittings of this Conven-
tion, whenever they may find it convenient.
The Chair appointed Messrs. Gallagher and Ferral
a committee to convey the information to the two Con-
ventions.
The committee on unfinished business submitted the
following reports :
The committee on the unfinished business of last year,
present the following subjects, as in their opinion,
worthy of the deliberation and action of this Conven-
tion.
The first subject to which the attention of the dele-
gates is called, is that of the tax requiring the members
belonging to the different Societies attached to Unions,
to pay two cents per month towards the creation of a
national fund.
The second subject for consideration, the committee
deems of importance, is the inaction of the committee
appointed to prepare an address to the working men
of the United States.
Thirdly, your committee suggest that State Prison
labor should be made a subject of inquiry, and that the
272 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
committee appointed at the last session be called on to
report.
The fourth subject which your committee think
should engage the attention of this body, is the equaliz-
ing of wages throughout the districts of country, where
trade societies or unions exist.
Fifth, in conformity with the disposition manifested
by the acts of the convention of last year, your commit-
tee propose that the members report what progress the
ten hour system has made so far as the Government is
concerned.
Sixth, the committee appointed on cotton factories
at our previous meetings, we would recommend to re-
port.
Seventh, your committee desire that the correspond-
ence which was recommended by the convention of
last year, should occupy the serious contemplation of
this body. This subject is of the greatest importance,
inasmuch as an active and steady exchange of infor-
mation is calculated to promote the objects and inter-
ests for which the national convention is convened.
Eighth, your committee also desire that members
from the different unions be requested to spread such
information as they may possess on the subject of edu-
cation before this body.
Ninth, your committee would also respectfully sug-
gest that the committee on correspondence be called
upon to inform this body what measures, if any, have
been taken by them to maintain the equilibrium of la-
bor throughout the country.
The consideration of this subject it is hoped will not
be neglected, the more especially, as our members in
any section will materially neutralize our efforts.
William D. Jones, John Commerford.
Mr. Gallagher from the committee on the conven-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 273
tions of Carpenters and hand loom weavers, reported
that they waited on the convention of hand loom weav-
ers and informed them of the object of their visit. They
were desired to tender to this convention their thanks
for the favour conferred on them, which they will avail
themselves of on every occasion where they can make
it convenient. [The first seven subjects brought up by
the committee on unfinished business were referred to
various committees.]
On motion of Wm. Thompson, the convention went
into committee of the whole on the eighth recommen-
dation of the committee on unfinished business; Mr.
Adams in the chair.
The Committee of the whole, after being in session
about two hours, rose and reported progress. . .
Afternoon Meeting, Oct. 26. The ninth recom-
mendation of the committee on unfinished business was
taken up, and on motion referred to the committee on
Trades' Union. . .
Mr. Crossin offered the following resolution which
was adopted. Resolved, that a full and detailed ac-
count of the proceedings of this convention be published
by the National Society for the Diffusion of Useful
Knowledge, and that at as early a day as possible, the
various unions now represented be requested through
their corresponding Secretary to apply to the record-
ing Secretary of the National Trades' Union for as
many copies of the proceedings as they may desire to
purchase.
Mr. Dillin offered the following, which was laid on
the table. Resolved, that a committee of be ap-
pointed to investigate the subject of lotteries as now ex-
isting in many of the states, and the consequences of
such system upon the productive classes.
Mr. Remington offered the following, which was
274 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
adopted: resolved, that a committee consisting of one
delegate from each Trades' Union represented in this
convention be appointed to revise the constitution of
said convention on such principles as will the more ef-
fectually ensure the carrying out of such measures as
may be agreed upon.
The following gentlemen compose the committee on
the above resolution -Mr. Bowie of New York, Mr.
Remington of Albany, Mr. Charles F. D. Jones of New-
ark, Mr. Murray of Pittsburgh, Mr. Darrah of Read-
ing, Mr. Wm. Thompson of Philadelphia, Mr. Ad-
ams of Baltimore, Mr. Halliday of Washington, D.C.
and Mr. Snellbaker of Cincinnati.
Mr. Mofifet, from the office of the Public Ledger^
was introduced to the convention, and after some ap-
propriate remarks, took his seat.
Mr. Murphy offered the following; whereas the Na-
tional Convention of the Trades' Union assembled in
the city of New York in October, 1835, did petition
Congress for a reduction of the hours of labor on the
public works, and as Congress have refused to inter-
fere in the said matter, thereby declaring that the per-
sons employed should redress their own grievances:
and whereas, the order which has been lately issued by
the government, establishing the ten hour system on the
said works is not a general order; therefore, be it re-
solved, that we most earnestly recommend to the per-
sons employed thereon, to persevere and insist on the
establishment of the ten hour system by all lawful and
honourable means.
Resolved, that the different Trades' Unions estab-
lished in the vicinities of the said works be requested to
use their influence with the persons employed, and stim-
ulate them to a united efifort to establish this judicious
system throughout the country.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 275
On motion of Mr. Remington, resolved, that this con-
vention recommend to the various societies attached to
Trades' Unions and others, to establish Literary and
Debating Societies. Referred to Committee on Ad-
dress.
The resolution offered yesterday by Mr. Gillespie,
and amended by Mr. Hogan, was called up, the motion
being put on the amendment, it was adopted, the reso-
lution was then adopted as amended. Messrs. Gilles-
pie and Commerford of New York, Hogan of Phila-
delphia, Gardner of Newark, and Remington of Al-
bany were appointed a committee to carry the same
into effect.
Mr. Adams offered the following, which was adopt-
ed: resolved that the committee on Trades' Unions be
instructed to enquire into the cause of the seeming
apathy prevailing in the States east of New York on
the subject of Trades' Unions and Trade Societies, and
report thereon to this convention.
The report of the committee on Education, on that
part of their duty contained in the resolution offered,
was read and accepted. . .
The convention then resolved itself into a committee
of the whole. Mr. Adams in the chair. . After being in
session a short time, the committee rose and reported
that they have adopted the following resolution, and
begged to be discharged. Resolved, that it be recom-
mended to the producing classes in the respective states
here represented, to use their best and most strenuous
efforts in obtaining the passage of such laws as will se-
cure the blessings of Education to all classes and con-
ditions of society.
On motion, the report of the committee was accepted,
and the committee discharged. The resolution offered
by the committee was on motion adopted. . .
276 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Evening Session, Oct.26th, 1836. . . Mr. Whit-
ney offered the following, which was adopted.
Resolved, that there be a committee appointed of one
from each Trades' Union represented to act with such
committee as may be appointed by their respective Un-
ions, to investigate such subjects as may be referred to
them for their consideration, and report the same to
this Convention (in writing) at its next annual meeting.
The report of the Committee on Female Labor was
read and accepted. The resolutions attached to the re-
port were on motion adopted. . .
Morning Session, Oct 27th. The Convention
opened at the appointed time, the President in the chair,
a quorum present, the minutes of yesterday read and
accepted.
The committee appointed by this Convention to con-
sider the subject of State Prison Labor submitted their
report, to which were attached the following resolu-
tions, which were adopted. [See (f) following.]
The committee at their own request were discharged
from the further consideration of the subject.
Mr. Whitney called for the appointment of a com-
mittee on the resolution offered by him last evening,
when the following distribution was made.
On Education, John Commerford of New York; on
State Prison Labor, Amaziah Whitney of Albany;
Factory System, George Wier of Newark; Female La-
bor, James Murray of Pittsburgh; Co-operation, Wil-
liam Thompson of Philadelphia; Ten Hour System,
James Douglas of Washington, D.C.; Trades' Unions,
Francis Gallagher of Baltimore; Effects of Specula-
tion on the Laboring Classes, Snellbaker of Cincinnati.
The committee on Trades' Unions submitted their
report. The three first propositions contained in the
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 277
report were on motion adopted. The fourth was on
motion referred to the committee on Co-operation.
Mr. Halliday offered the following: resolved, that
this Convention recommend to the several Trades' Un-
ions here represented to draft memorials, obtain signa-
tures to the same, and forward them to the President of
the United States, asking the establishment of uniform
hours of labor upon all the public works, and that they
recommend that not more than ten hours constitute a
day's work.
Resolved, that the Unions be requested to forward
their memorials immediately after the 4th of March
next, and that their delegates to the next Convention
report the result of the application.
Mr. Crossin moved that the resolutions be referred
to the Committee on the Ten Hour System. . .
Afternoon Session, Oct. 27th. The motion of Mr.
Crossin to refer the resolutions of Mr. Halliday to the
committee on ten hour system, was taken up and agreed
to.
A communication was received from the convention
of Hand-Loom Weavers, announcing that they will this
afternoon avail themselves of the invitation of this con-
vention to sit with them, the gentlemen being present,
were invited to a seat. On motion of S. C. Thompson,
the committee on Factory system was discharged from
the further consideration of the subject, and a new com-
mittee appointed. The following gentlemen consti-
tute the new committee. S. C. Thompson, John Crossin,
Charles Douglass, John Hays, and John Ferral.
The committee on Public Lands reported on the sub-
ject of the memorial to Congress.
On motion of Mr. Hogan, the following resolutions
were adopted: resolved, that this convention, while it
278 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
deeply regrets the inability of the females employed in
the Lowell factories to maintain their rights, view their
conduct as highly meritorious, and deserving of the ap-
probation of the working people of the United States,
and as a proof of its regard for their interest, that a
committee of three be appointed to transmit a letter to
them approving of the noble stand made against aggres-
sion, and sympathising with them on their failure.
Resolved further, that this convention earnestly rec-
ommend to the Unions in the United States to do all in
their power to aid either by money or otherwise the fe-
males who are standing out against the oppression of
these soulless employers.
Committee on the above, Messrs. Hogan, Crossin, and
Piper.
The committee on Education asked leave to report
during the recess of the convention; the request was
granted.
The committee on Address asked the same privilege.
It was also granted.
Mr. Gallagher offered the following, which was
adopted.
Whereas, in this land of freedom, a fearless and in-
dependent press is the palladium of Public Liberty,
and knowing that such press is the most speedy vehicle
by which knowledge can be disseminated among the
working classes : therefore resolved, that it be earnestly
recommended to the Workingmen of the United States
to encourage and patronise papers devoted to the main-
tenance of those eternal principles of Justice upon which
Trades' Unions are based.
The committee on the ten hour system submitted the
report, attached to which was the following resolution :
resolved, that the various Unions be earnestly requested
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 279
to use their influence in favor of the ten hour system, as
citizens unconnected with any society, by requesting of
the President of the United States, orders for adoption
of the system wherever the government may require
more than ten hours for a day's labor in the vicinity of
such Union.
On motion the resolution vv^as adopted. . .
Friday Morning Session, Oct. 28th. On motion of
Mr. W. D. Jones, resolved, that this convention deem
it the imperative duty of all members forming commit-
tees from this body, to transmit all documents and sub-
jects referred to them, to their successors in the delega-
tion, with such investigations as they may have made.
The committee on the Constitution submitted the re-
sult of their labors for adoption. On motion, the articles
were taken up separately, and discussed, after which
they were adopted.
On motion resolved, that this convention hold an ad-
journed session on the first Monday in May next. The
question was called by ayes and nays, and recorded as
follows: [Ayes, 19; nays, 8. Names omitted.]
On motion of C. F. D. Jones, resolved, that the sever-
al Unions and Trade Societies herein represented, be
requested to use their utmost endeavours to ameliorate
the condition of the female operatives in their respec-
tive vicinities, by inducing to form societies for the pur-
pose of sustaining them in their undoubted right, name-
ly, that of a just remuneration for their labor, and to
prevent the ruinous competition which now exists by the
labor of females being brought into competition with
that of males.
The committee on Co-operation submitted their re-
port, which was read and accepted.
On motion of D. A. Piper, resolved, that the resolu-
28o AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
tion offered by Mr. Whitney on Wednesday evening, be
so altered as to require the several committees appoint-
ed under said resolution, to report at the adjourned
meeting of this convention to be held in May next.
The committee on the Factory System submitted their
report.
On motion, the proceedings of this convention were
referred to the Philadelphia delegation for revision and
correction previous to their full publication. . .
Afternoon Session. On motion of James Murray,
resolved, that this convention recommend the propriety
of forming miscellaneous societies, where the number of
operatives in a single branch of business are insufficient
to form a society, and that they be admitted into the dif-
ferent Trades' Unions in their vicinity, on the same
principles upon which other societies are admitted.
The finance committee reported the expense of room,
stationary, &c. for the sitting of this convention to be
twelve dollars. On motion, the report was referred to
the Philadelphia delegation.
On motion of John Ferral, resolved, that this conven-
tion highly approve of the conduct of the presiding offi-
cers during the present session.
John Ferral offered the following, which was under
discussion, when the hour of adjournment arrived, and
the convention stood adjourned.
Resolved, that this convention disapprove of the sys-
tem now practised by the National Government, in the
disposal of the public lands.
Resolved, that the public lands are the public do-
main, and that the said domain should be appropriated
only to actual settlers, labor expended thereon being
the title that equal laws and equal rights will approve.
Joseph D. Miller, Sec. N.T.U.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 281
[National Laborer, Nov. 12, 1836] There was an
error in the latter part of the proceedings as reported
by the Secretary, and printed in our paper. It is stated
that the convention adjourned while the resolutions on
the subject of the public lands were under discussion;
whereas the resolutions were adopted, and it was a mo-
tion to transmit a copy to the President and the Con-
gress, which was under consideration when the time
expired.
(c) REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FEMALE
LABOR
National Laborer, Nov. 12, 1836, pp. 133, 134.
The Committee appointed to report on the evils of
Female Labor, respectfully offer the following as the
result of their opinions and conference on that subject,
having in the discharge of their duty considered the
subject in a moral, social, and pecuniary point of view.
First- Proceeding to explain and exhibit the errors of
the system, and after to point out the only means of cur-
tailing or arresting the evil.
The system of Female Labor, as practiced in our
cities and manufacturing towns, is surely the most dis-
graceful escutcheon on the character of American free-
men, and one, if not checked by some superior cause,
will entail ignorance, misery and degradation on our
children, to the end of time. "The physical organiza-
tion, the natural responsibilities, and the moral sensi-
bility of women, prove conclusively that her labors
should be only of a domestic nature." But if the char-
acter and attributes of any of God's creatures have been
subverted, it has been woman, when forced by adven-
titious circumstances to become the abused hireling and
drudge of the speculator and monopolist. Let the
282 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Workingmen of the United States but consider what
would become of the rising generation if the almost
universal system of Female Labor should not be arrest-
ed. By reflecting one moment, every one can see the
consequences, and although it may promise and offer
temporary gain to some, it should be passed and heeded
as "the song of the syren" -every thing at present or in
future, is destroyed by the illusion. The health of the
young female, in the majority of cases, is injured by un-
natural restraint and confinement, and deprived of the
qualities essentially necessary in the culture and bearing
of healthy children. Their morals frequently depart
before their health, in consequence of being often
crowded in such large numbers, with all characters and
all sexes; and what evil example this fails to do, neces-
sity too often urges and palliates; and this one point
of the subject, above all others, should arouse the jeal-
ous sensibilities of every moral man, and more particu-
larly of every parent. These evils themselves are great,
and call loudly for a speedy cure; but still another ob-
jection to the system arises, which, if possible, is produc-
tive of the other evils, namely, the ruinous competition
brought in active opposition to male labor, actually pro-
ducing a reversion of the very good intended to do the
guardian or parent, causing the destruction of the end
which it aims to benefit; because, when the employer
finds, as he surely will, that female assistance will com-
press his ends, of course the workman is discharged, or
reduced to a corresponding rate of wages with the fe-
male operative. By these means the parent, the hus-
band, or the brother, is deprived of a sufficient subsist-
ence to support himself and family, when without the
auxiliary aid of the female, by his own labor alone he
might have supported himself and family in decency,
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 283
and kept his wife or relative at home, to perform the
duties of the household. Nor is the evil lessened in the
case of females who work singly, or in reduced num-
bers. If possible, their competition is still more ruin-
ous; because, in the first instance, when congregated in
large numbers, they are generally the assistants of ma-
chinery, which destroys the necessity of manual labor.
But in the latter case, all being done by the hand, the
female in a short time becomes so expert as entirely to
supercede the necessity of the male; and this fact is ap-
parent to every one, that, when the females are found
capable of performing duty generally performed by
the men, as a natural consequence, from the cheapness
of their habits and dependent situation, they acquire
complete control of that particular branch of labor.
And if the evil stopped here, it might more readily be
arrested; but the desire of gain is such that there is no
limits that could confine it; and so long as employers are
allowed to experiment on the labor of the sex, each
trade, except it be of the most laborious character, is
in danger of the innovation. The Committee will not
attempt to conceal the fact, that a serious question meets
us in our opposition to the system. "If the mechanical
labor, or the opposition labor of females are destroyed,
can they employ their time usefully and profitably?"
and the Committee will answer, not without a corres-
ponding change in society, which must be produced by
the extension of knowledge and education. In the early
ages, we find that the women were usefully, healthily,
and industriously employed, although differently en-
gaged from their present occupations; and if in those
early days a sufficiency of labor was found, as a matter
of course, at the present day, with the increased de-
mand, a sufficiency can be had in the family of every
284 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
one. The evil, however, has been saddled upon us, and
it is our duty, as well as interest, to propose such rem-
edies as the case may require. Females themselves are
very blind as to their real interest, and imagine that each
effort made to destroy the operation of the system, is
destructive to their interest, whereas it is virtually cal-
culated to remove and destroy the very evils they now
labor under, and it would be folly to urge a different
course, until they see the evil in all its colours. One
thing, however, must be apparent to every reflecting
female, that all her exertions are scarce sufficient to
keep her alive; that the price of her labor each year is
reduced; and that she in a measure stands in the way of
the male when attempting to raise his prices or equalize
his labor; and that there her efforts to sustain herself
and family, are actually the same as tying a stone around
the neck of her natural protector, Man, and destroying
him with the weight she has brought to his assistance.
This is the true and natural consequence of female la-
bor, when carried beyond the necessities of the family.
It is thus that the speculator can riot through his mines
of gold, heedless of the tears and the degradation of his
innocent victims. It is not enough that freemen have
sunk below the level of humanity at the shrine of Mam-
mon, but their wives and daughters must be offered at
the pyre. Is not Avarice satisfied with a nation of
Fathers and Sons, but our Wives and Daughters, the
loved ones of our hearts and affections, shall be thrown
into the spoilers' arms? How true, though oft repeated
Man's inhumanity to man,
Makes countless thousands mourn.
What we would ask, has ever been the pride of this,
as well as other countries; but the purity, the virtue, and
the intelligence of their daughters?
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 285
Can refined patriotism exist in the breasts of men who
daily quietly look upon their daughters without an ef-
fort to raise them to their proper level, and to preserve
their honor, ''a pearl of princely value." For what did
the Roman patriot sacrifice his only daughter, but to
preserve her honor? For what did Coriolanus the sec-
ond time resign his name, his glory and his splendid
triumphs, but for the mother that bore him, and to dry
the tears of his wife, his bosom friend? If we cannot
be Romans, let us act the part of men.
The committee acknowledge, first, the system neces-
sary in the present state of society.
2. That it is destructive in all its bearings.
3. That it must be destroyed by gradual means, and
by the active co-operation of the female operatives.
4. That the legislatures of the various states should
be required to assist by the enactment of laws prevent-
ing females under a certain age from being employed
in large factories, and then only under the care and
superintendence of a parent.
It has already been shown an evil, but if anything
more is required to prove it, it may be necessary to state,
that in the New England states, printing, saddling,
brush making, tailoring, whip making, and many other
trades are in a certain measure governed by females;
and as a matter of course the same system will spread
over the country. It has been shown that the number
of females employed in opposition to male labor,
throughout the United States, exceeds 140,000, who la-
bor on an average from 12 to 15 hours per day, without
that pure air and wholesome exercise which are neces-
sary to health, and confinement with the consequent ex-
cess of toil, which checks the growth of the body, de-
stroying in effect the natural powers of the mind, and
286 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
not unfrequently distorting the limbs. Dr. Smith ob-
serves, his surprise ceased on seeing a large number of
deformed extremities, when he ascertained they came
from a manufacturing town and the number of hours
they were compelled to labour. It seldom occurs that
those employed in factories exceed forty years of age,
and the average longevity in a worsted mill in Man-
chester is thirteen, and in cotton factories seventeen
years -the average deformity as one to thirty-seven -to
these may be attributed principally the great proportion
of mortality by consumption, of which we have such
frequent accounts from England and the cities of the
United States. It is computed that in the city of Lon-
don alone, there are 50,000 common prostitutes, nine-
tenths of whom are reduced to this necessity, from the
miserable payment received for their labor from the
factories, neglect of education in youth, and an entire
lack of knowledge in the more useful branches of fe-
male industry, all emanating from the same cause, and
false delusions held out to the parents of children by
heartless aristocratic monopolists. These expositions
we consider conclusive evidence of the unnatural policy
of placing females in a different element from that de-
signed by nature, and proven by their slight texture of
body, and extreme sensibility of mind. As an evidence
of the injurious tendencies the introduction of the fe-
male system has upon the male operatives, we will take
the societies composing the Union of Philadelphia only ;
for example, of fifty-eight societies, twenty-four are ser-
iously affected by female labor, to the impoverishing
of whole families, and benefit of none but the employers.
It is presumed that this is a fair criterion to judge of
the other sections of the Union; and from all these cal-
culations there is evident reason to believe, that some of
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 287
the different branches of operative mechanics will in
time be superseded by female operatives to the entire
exclusion of the males, and the consequent introduction
of dissipation, indolence, and crime.
We would not be understood by these suggestions to
deprive the female portion of the community from earn-
ing by honest industry a livelihood, but to direct their
attention to the other branches of female industry, bet-
ter calculated to promote health of body, and the still
more noble attainments, the cultivation of the mind, be-
lieving that there are sufficient openings for female in-
dustry and invention, much more profitable, and not re-
quiring that labor of body, and constant incarceration
required in factories.
That it must be destroyed by gradual means none can
deny; a departure from which, if it were practicable,
would reduce thousands to beggary, starvation, and
crime.
That females themselves should arouse in this noble
cause is again pressed by the committee, believing if the
good and pure in all classes would but come out, much
might be done to meliorate their condition. For in-
stance, it is presumed there are twenty beneficial so-
cieties for females in the city of Philadelphia, compos-
ing in the aggregate 4,och3 members. Now, if the hu-
mane in these societies could effect a reorganization in
order to grant assistance to those imposed upon by em-
ployers, the good effects, no doubt, would be speedily
felt. In addition to their beneficial dues, let them assess
each member 6% cents monthly, making the sum in ad-
dition 75 cents yearly, which could be felt by none, but
which by the increased number of females who would
subscribe from motives of charity, might be raised to an
amount calculated to defeat the oppression of the
288 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
heartless employer; because if the employer can but
manage without their assistance two weeks, he is sure of
defeating them. And on the other hand, if they could
stand for three weeks, the pressing demand for their
labor and the impracticability of foreign assistance,
would compel him to come to terms. This simple
plan itself would give confidence to the female, throws
her in the company of those who were her friends, and
by their united energies would do more to raise each
other than all the Dorcas Societies in the world, who
subscribe themselves "charitable ladies," for giving a
w^oman 12^ cents for making a shirt, equalled as they
are in "charity" only by the United States' Clothing De-
partment in the city of Philadelphia, which has ground
the seamstress down to the above sum, 12}^ for the same
article.
In the city of Philadelphia a Society of Female Op-
eratives exists, numbering near four hundred, governed
on the same principles as the other Trade Societies,
which, in time, no doubt, will effectuate much good;
and two or three other societies are composed in part by
females who have received a proportionate benefit with
the males. Many means, no doubt, might be adopted
to bring females in society, but until it is done, they have
little hope of redress.
Another method might be resorted to. All those
trades affected by female labor could regulate their laws
in such way as to admit those females in their society,
so that in case of difficulty they would be governed by
their laws and receive their support- or raise the Soci-
ety of females, and make one auxiliary to the other.
Any of these measures might be tried without danger
or loss, and there is no doubt one or the other with per-
severance would succeed, but the committee would rec-
ommend the amalgamation of trade and beneficial So-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 289
cieties. While on this point of the subject, the commit-
tee cannot pass without a remark on the inconsistency
of a certain class of females, and likewise to offer one
more suggestion. The fact must be apparent to any one
that Sunday School Societies and Temperance Societies
have been mainly supported by females, as well also as
Foreign and Domestic Missions. Now, is it not a singu-
lar fact, that females who would sacrifice their time
and health to distribute tracts and collect moneys for
the heathen, could not devote a mite for their own op-
pressed countrywomen without the sacrifice of time or
health. We do not object to these objects by any means ;
but while they are discharging the duties of humanity
they should not overlook their own sex and kin. Let
them endeavour to take away the provocation to crime
by giving the poor female a sufficiency for her labor to
support herself and orphans, and that act will be as ac-
ceptable in the eye of Heaven as any ever discharged
by mortal. Besides, their efforts to distinguish them-
selves, if their motives be pure, which we do not ques-
tion, are not always crowned with success, agents and
impostors frequently reaping the fruit of their labors;
whereas, did they but collect but half the sum to give
to destitute females forced to abandon their labor, they
themselves could divide the tribute without the least
danger of imposition. Of what avail has been all the
sympathy expressed by some of the great men of this
city? Have they ever proposed a single plan to benefit
the female laborer? Much have they talked, but little
have they done. We see among the fashionable ladies,
monthly contributions started, extending, as they do,
through all classes of females, for one thing or the other
thing, but we do not see them propose^ a penny or two-
^ The hint for a two penny fund is a "suggestion," and should be credited
to a lady of Philadelphia, to whom the committee return thanks.
290 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
penny tax on the female portion of the community for
their unfortunate sisters in adversity. This would be
a noble thing; and the committee will propose to the
charitable in those districts where females are oppressed,
to form themselves in general societies for the benefit
of female laborers; and if the donation be but two cents
monthly, that sum will answer every purpose, provid-
ed it is subscribed to generally. The question will then
soon be settled, whether those who have done so much
have done so from the dictates of conscience or for the
applause of the world. The females employed in the
Lowell Mills, by the adoption of such a suggestion, no
doubt would have been able to starve their proprietors
out, instead of being defeated, as they probably will
be. But to prevent a similar recurrence, they should
immediately adopt energetic measures, in the construc-
tion of Societies to support each other in trouble; and
by their failure, composed as they are of 7,000 in all,
let others be cautioned. This is the only effectual rem-
edy to be applied at this time. We must first curb the
excess before we destroy the evil.
In relation to the right or propriety of legislatures
interfering with the domestic arrangements of manu-
facturers or speculators, workingmen should not say
one word. "The evil has arisen from partial legisla-
tion," and let legislation correct the evil. Take away
from the wealthy the temptation held out by poverty,
and we will be more virtuous and more happy.
In concluding their report, the committee will ob-
serve the suggestions thrown out are gratuitous, be-
lieving that nothing can be done without the co-opera-
tion of the females; they however have proposed the
above remedies, hoping that the day is not far distant,
when some of them may be adopted to relieve this op-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 29 1
pressed part of the community; they shall therefore
close by offering the following:
Resolved, that in the opinion of this convention, the
present system of Female Labour is highly injurious to
the best interests of the working classes, to the great
object of mental improvement, and consequent corrup-
tion of good morals.
Resolved, that this convention, from feelings of hu-
manity, recommend to the different Unions the propri-
ety of assisting with their advice and influence, the
female operatives through out the U. States, in amelior-
ating their present unhappy situation, under the female
system of labour.
John Crossin, James Murray, Joshua S.
Fletcher, Charles F. D. Jones.
(d) REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
National Laborer, Nov. 19, 1836, p. 137.
This is a special report on "speculation." The report of the committee
on its own proper subject was not made at this time, as it asked
and was granted leave to report during the recess of the convention.
It is not known whether the report was ever made.
The Committee on Education to which was referred
the following resolution, "That a committee of three be
appointed to inquire into the sources of the great sys-
tem of speculation -by which they who produce noth-
ing receive nearly all of the products of the labor of
those who produce -while they who produce all receive
but a mite of their own labor- and to report on the best
course to be pursued to secure to all the full reward of
their own industry" -respectfully report, that they have
attended only to that portion of their duty which is in-
volved in the above resolution, and even upon that
their limited time and means of information constrain
them to be brief. Your committee have found the sub-
292 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ject to be of great magnitude, and one which would
require more time than they or even the Convention
could bestow upon it. It is too important, however, to
be passed over in silence, and your committee have,
therefore, enumerated two of the principal causes of the
present raging speculation among the people of the
United States.
First. An unsettled currency, and constant flucta-
tions in the nominal value of money, by which produce
of all descriptions, though varying not in its worth is
varying and unfixed in its prices, thus giving to the cap-
italist an opportunity to buy when provisions are cheap,
and retain them in his possession till a new fluctuation
in money prices takes place, and then sell them at an
advance, thus putting wealth into his pocket without
labor. Your Committee consider that money is but a
medium of exchange or the mere representative of the
products of labor. And it may, therefore, be compared
to a yard-stick, or a weight, or a measure. It is obvious,
therefore, that if the currency becomes deranged, or is
liable to the slightest changes, the productive laborer
cannot receive the reward of his industry, and that the
portion filched from him goes into the hands of the
speculator. If a weaver, for instance, manufactures a
quantity of cloth, payable for by the yard, and it is
measured with a stick 33/2 feet in length instead of 3,
it is plain that he is defrauded ; and precisely so in mon-
ey- if he bargains to manufacture a quantity of goods
for fifty dollars, and he finds that when he receives his
pay he cannot make his earnings go so far by ten dol-
lars as he could when he agreed upon the price for his
labor, he is again defrauded.
A field is thus opened for speculation, which all en-
ter who wish to acquire wealth, and the scramble of
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 293
buying and selling continues so long as the nominal
prices of labor are changing.
2. Another thing which encourages speculation is
the division of the workingmen into employers and jour-
neymen, a system which places the actual operative in
a situation that effectually debars him from having a
control over his labor, and gives him no voice in its dis-
posal. Everything that increases the number of hands
through which the products of his labor has to pass
before they reach the consumer, encourages specula-
tion, and on the other hand, the diminution of inter-
mediate agents in the sale of his manufactures, decreas-
es speculation, and secures to him a greater portion of the
profits of his industry. If, therefore, the mechanics
sold their labor directly to the consumer, speculation
would cease, and they would receive a full reward for
their labor.
Your Committee have thus gone through the sources
of speculation as far as circumstances permitted. The
concluding part of the resolution referred to them re-
mains yet to be considered; this is to "report on the best
course to be pursued to secure to all the full reward of
their own industry." Your Committee are decidedly of
opinion that the best course is to establish a system
which will enable the mechanic to have the sole and ab-
solute control over the disposal of his labor, and this,
in their opinion, can be done only by forming Co-op-
erative Trade Associations, and as a Committee on that
subject has been appointed by the Convention, they
deem it proper to conclude their report, by recom-
mending the serious attention of the Convention to the
report of the Committee on Co-operation.
Thomas Hogan, Chas. F. D. Jones,
Francis Gallagher, Daniel A. Piper.
294 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
(e) REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON TRADES'
UNIONS
National Laborer, Nov. 26, 1836, p. 141.
The Committee on Trades' Unions, beg leave to re-
port:
That owing to the short space of time allotted to them,
they are unable to make as full and elaborate a re-
port as the magnitude of the subject entrusted to them
is entitled to; they will, however, endeavor to discharge
the duties assigned to them. And, first: The impor-
tance of Union and Co-operation is manifest to all re-
flecting men, and the motto of "United we stand, di-
vided we fall," is no where more applicable than to
the interests of the working people; therefore interest,
duty, and patriotism, demand that we should pursue
with energy every measure calculated to secure for our-
selves and our children, for the bereaved widow and
her orphan, an adequate reward for their labor. The
question naturally arises, how can this be accomplished?
We reply by Union, and by Union alone.
Therefore, as a basis, we recommend to the several
Unions composing this Convention, an immediate and
energetic action in the formaton of Trades' Societies
and Trades' Unions, in all parts of our country, know-
ing that the reason why the producers are oppressed and
speculated upon, is on account of the divisions and
want of union among themselves; to divide and con-
quer is the policy of the Aristocracy; to unite as one
man, is an only hope of success. We would also urge
on the Trade Societies in the United States, to open an
immediate and extensive correspondence with other so-
cieties of the same trade as themselves, in all places
where they exist, and where none are formed, to so-
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 295
licit their fellow- workmen to enter into immediate and
energetic measures for their formation.
On the resolution referred to your Committee, re-
quiring them to investigate what is the causes of the
apathy manifested by the mechanics in the Eastern
States, we would trace it first to competition amongst
themselves for employment; secondly, a want of confi-
dence in each other, causing petty jealousies and sel-
fishness to predominate over that generous and manly
pride, inherent in the human heart; and lastly, a want
of proper information touching their own interests,
showing them why he who produces all, receives but
a fraction of his own labor; while he who riots in in-
dolence, obtains all the luxuries, and enjoys all the
pleasures of life.
To remove this, we recommend that proper infor-
mation concerning the principles, the objects, and the
policy of Trades' Unions, with the advantages that
have resulted to those societies which compose those al-
ready in existence, and the benefits that must accrue
to us by sustaining those Unions, be disseminated
amongst the workingmen generally, both by pamph-
lets and by lectures; by precept, and by our own exam-
ple; this we conceive to be our best, and in fact, our
only remedy.
The subject of maintaining a healthful equilibrium
of supply and demand, your Committee are convinced
is of the most vital importance. In the Atlantic cities,
the evils flowing from surplus labor, is perhaps more
materially felt than in the interior of the manufactur-
ing states; therefore, any propositions which may tend
to equalize, or distribute in judicious proportions, labor
throughout the country, must operate beneficially to
the whole of those who depend on productive industry
296 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
for their subsistence. In one or more of the districts
which is here represented, it is well known that they are
at all times liable to sudden fluctuations in the prices of
labor, from the accessions and increase of emigration.
Those who thrive from the labor of the producer, in-
cited by their avarice, are always ready to take the ad-
vantage of the description of persons above alluded to;
the destitute situation of the stranger in our land, is
seized upon with avidity by the capitalist, and agents
are frequently appointed, whose duty it is to engage
the operative at wages far below those established by
Trade Societies. Your Committee do not intend to
say that agents are generally appointed for this pur-
pose; they merely state that this is one of the schemes
resorted to for the express object of depreciating the
price of labor.
That undue advantage can at all times be secured to
the capitalist from surplus labor in any one place, can-
not be doubted; the admission, then, of so serious a fact,
should admonish this body to devise some plan where-
by a district of country thus afflicted, could be imme-
diately relieved. In order to carry so important an ob-
ject into execution, the following propositions are sub-
mitted.
ist. That a Board of Commissioners, consisting of
one from each Union, be appointed by this Convention.
2d. That it shall be one of the specific duties of each
member of the Board, to obtain a precise list of the
members belonging to the respective Societies of the
Union to which he is attached.
3d. That said Commissioners, through correspond-
ence, shall keep the different Unions constantly ad-
vised of the number of members, and likewise to give
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 297
such information as they may possess with regard to the
demand for labor in their respective vicinities.
4th. That a portion of the National Fund be
set apart to supply members with means for the pur-
pose of enabling them to remove to such places as are
not overstocked with numbers, at the same time mak-
ing members drawing on this fund liable to refund the
amount which they may have received, through the
operation of the Society or Union of their separate lo-
cations. All of which is respectfully submitted.
David T. Snellbaker, F. T. Remington,
Wm. Murphy, B. S. Gillespie.
(f) REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON THE STATE
PRISON QUESTION
National Laborer, Nov. 26, 1836, p. 141.
The Committee to which was referred the State Pris-
on question would respectfully Report,
That at the last meeting of the National Convention,
there were several recommendations made in reference
to this subject, which have not generally been acted up-
on; and they conceive, that a renewal of those recom-
mendations, with an earnest appeal to the energetic ac-
tion of the different Unions throughout the country, are
sufficient grounds for the Committee to assume.
The Committee not having sufficient data, cannot,
at this time, enter into a detail of the system, as acted
upon in the different states: suffice it to say, that they
are well aware, that in almost all of them, it appears to
be the policy of our State Legislators to tax, almost ex-
clusively, the producers for the support of the convicts,
by teaching them mechanical occupations, that the re-
sult of their labor may be brought in ruinous competi-
tion with that of the honest artizan. Therefore, your
298 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [VoL
committee would recommend the adoption of the fol-
lowing resolutions, with a wish that the delegates would
call the attention of their constituents to immediate ac-
tion on this subject.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the Operatives
in the different sections of the country, to use their stren-
uous exertions to effect a radical reform in their several
Penitentiary Systems, as far as regards the employment
and teaching of convicts in those occupations which
afifect their moral and pecuniary interests; believing
that the employment of convicts upon articles to com-
pete with those manufactured by the honest portion of
the community to be manifestly unjust- and the plan
of teaching them mechanical branches to be a system
which tends to make industry in productive labor a de-
graded occupation.
Resolved, that a Committee of one from each Union
represented herein, be appointed to report in writing,
at the next Annual Convention, all information relative
to this subject as it now exists in their several places -
the various measures adopted to efifect a reform -and
the success attending such efforts since the action of
this body.
W. D. Roberts, Levi D. Slamm, N. B. Gardner,
John Commerford, James F. Haliday.
(g) REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COOPERATION
National Laborer, Dec. 3, 1836, p. 145.
The Committee on Co-operation would respectfully
report, that the subject referred to them is one of great
interest to all producers, requiring a more extensive in-
vestigation than the time of the present session will ad-
mit, in order to present a system by which the desirable
results contemplated may be arrived at; and as this
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 299
Union is to hold an adjourned meeting, at which time
a more detailed report, together with a system by which
the producers of all wealth may fully enjoy the fruits
of their industry, the Committee would therefore rec-
ommend the following resolution for adoption at pres-
ent:
Resolved, that Trades' Unions, Trades' Societies,
and mechanics of all branches in the United States
and elsewhere, be requested to take measures to investi-
gate the subject of Co-operation, and that meetings be
held by all the Unions and Societies represented in this
Union, at which the subject may be fully discussed, as
it is the opinion of the Committee, that until a system
of Co-operation is adopted by which the producers of
wealth may also be its possessors, and consequently en-
joy its benefits, that the great burden of the evils of
which we so justly complain, will never be removed.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this Convention,
that if Trades' Unions and Trade Societies were to ap-
ply their funds to the establishing of Co-operation in
Societies suffering aggression, instead of exhausting
their funds by supporting strikes, a much more per-
manent benefit would be rendered.
Wm. Thompson, D. T. Snellbaker,
John Commerford, Eli Dillin, Geo. Weir.
(h) report of the committee on the ten-
hour system on government works
National Laborer, Dec. lo, 1836, p. 152.
The Committee appointed by the National Trades'
Union, to report what progress had been made in the
Ten Hour System on the Government works, respect-
fully report, that they have collected the information as
far as lay in their power, believing at the same time,
300 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
with a trifling exception, that it is a perfect exposition
of the subject matter under their consideration.
It is a matter of regret, the Committee are bound to
acknowledge, that our Government, which should foster
the weak and protect the helpless, has, under every ad-
ministration, pursued a different course, and required
more from the laborers in her employ than has been re-
quired by private citizens, which fact has been exhib-
ited in the late difficulties between the authorities and
the national workmen in the city of Philadelphia. Nor
are the committee prepared to censure or condemn any
particular officer or branch of the government, being
convinced that if the laborers throughout the country
would resort to the same measures of redress the same
results would follow, which has happily been experi-
enced in Philadelphia. At the last sitting of the Na-
tional Trades' Union, a committee were appointed to
draft a memorial to congress, asking for the establish-
ment of the ten hour system on the government works.
After the memorial had been signed and forwarded to
the Hon. Eli Moore, that gentleman took occasion to
offer it; but unlike the memorials of individuals for
large donations of money, or the advance of officers'
salaries, it was never noticed, or if noticed at all, only to
receive the insults and sneers of "the honourable" -the
people's servants. From motives concealed from the
American people, no action was taken on the subject,
and the memorial now lies on their table, probably nev-
er to be acted upon. The system however was not aban-
doned. It was agitated with vigor by the members of
the Philadelphia Trades' Union, as well as the Union-
ists of other places. In the month of June, the ship-
wrights, joiners, and others engaged in the National
Navy Yard in Philadelphia, met in great numbers, and
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 301
passed several strong resolutions against the system -
they having previously struck for the hours.
All their resolutions and appeals to government, how-
ever, remained unanswered. In the month of August,
a town meeting of citizens, mechanics and workingmen,
were called, when a committee of workingmen were
clothed with power to ask, as a right, of the President
of the United States, orders for the adoption of the
system, which had the desired efifect, and which was
communicated to the committee by the Secretary of the
navy. Ten hours labor was and is consequently con-
sidered and acknowledged a sufficiency for one day, by
the government, in Philadelphia. This measure, in-
tended by the workingmen of Philadelphia to become
universal in all the national works, has been given only
to those who have claimed it. On the government
works in Brooklyn, the old system is still pursued. In
the city of New York the system is established, and the
government, in the erection of custom houses or other
public buildings or works, must conform to the custom.
In the city of Baltimore, on the public works in prog-
ress, the hours have been given, after the mechanics had
positively refused to be governed by the old system. At
Annapolis and other places throughout Maryland, me-
chanics receive the hours. In the District of Colum-
bia, Gosport, Norfolk, and throughout the southern
states, 12 and 14 hours are still claimed by the govern-
ment; also throughout all the states north and east of
New York. Government work is generally confined to
the states of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode
Island, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia,
North Carolina, and the District of Columbia, out of
which the hours are given in New York, Pennsylvania,
and Maryland, the only three states out of the eight in
302 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
which Trades' Unions exist. In addition to their duty,
the committee will take the privilege of inquiring for
the most effectual plan to establish the system. It is
contended by many of our friends, and those the most
enlightened, that congress has no right to legislate on
this subject at all -that it properly belongs to ourselves -
that we have the exclusive right to labor as long as we
choose, for what wages we please, and that an inter-
ference on the part of congress would be an assumption
of power derogatory to us as freemen, and destructive
to our liberties as citizens. Without differing with them
in opinion, the committee will observe, others declare it
an unwarranted stretch of power in the executive to
interfere in the matter, while others again contend he is
the only source of redress -that he in the character of
the "Executive Officer" only discharges his duty when
redressing the known grievances of any portion of the
community, particularly when there is no statute to the
contrary, and when the redress interferes not with the
rights or just privileges of others.
If the president or congress (the same principle
would be involved with both) were to interfere, without
the application of the people, or their representatives,
then the case would be vastly different ; for if either were
allowed gratuitously to add to the price of labour, by
the same precise rule, they could reduce it, and thus
mould us to their wishes at pleasure. But such is not
the case, as has been shown by the conduct of Govern-
ment. The committee who addressed the President
asked for the extension of the ten hour system, but be-
lieving it was not justifiable in so doing, or that the
same channel was open to others, it will probably be
withheld until they do as we have done, claim it for
themselves. The committee are decided in their opinion.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 303
that congress has the same right to reduce the hours of
labour on public work, or advance their wages, as they
have to settle the terms of service in the army or navy,
or to do as has lately been done, increase the pay of the
navy officers, because their salary had been fixed by one
congress years ago, that was no obstacle to raising it, on
the present occasion. We have seen the salaries of offi-
cers of the government raised and reduced, as circum-
stances required; then why do those, labouring for the
government, require an exemption, when that exemp-
tion is injurious to them. Their necessities will com-
pel them to submit without using their energies in the
establishment of the system; but it is rendered morally
certain by the simple, prudent, and rational mode of
asking for that as well as any other act of justice. Those
who acknowledge either executive or legislative to have
the power of raising wages, must, under circumstances,
allow them the power of reduction; but what would be
the consequence. The public works would be neglect-
ed, and "government would be forced to accede to
terms." This may appear as an anomaly, but still it
is true. The corporation of Philadelphia, as well as
other places, have settled the wages and hours of their
workmen, it has never been disputed; and if legal in
one case, it certainly is in another. Government, in all
its branches, is intended for the transaction of the peo-
ple's business, and if the people find any just right has
been withheld, common sense will teach them to ask
it, and if it be refused, the purposes of government are
null and void. In the concluding of this report, the
committee are more sanguine (from reason and expe-
rience) that good results would attend an application on
the President than on congress, from various reasons
not necessary to enumerate, and they would press its
304 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
necessity on every Trades' Unionist in the country. Pe-
tition government, let her establish the system on all her
works, the example will be speedily felt and followed,
and ten hours labor for a day will thus in spirit become
a law of the land. The committee will conclude by
offering the following.
Resolved, that this convention recommend to the var-
ious Unions the necessity of using their influence in fa-
vour of the ten hour system, as citizens unconnected with
any organized Society, by requesting of the President
of the United States his interference for the adoption of
the system, whenever the government may require more
than ten hours for a day's labor in the vicinity of such
Union. JOHN Crossin, Pennsylvania;
David T. Snellbaker, Ohio; George Weir, New
Jersey; Wm. M. Roberts, Maryland; James MUR-
RAY, Pennsylvania; A. Whitney, New York.
(i) CONSTITUTION
Natiojtal Laborer, Nov. 5, 1836, p. 132.
This constitution was adopted on October 28, 1836.
Constitution of the National Trades' Union
Preamble. We, the Delegates from the various
Trades Unions in the United States in Convention as-
sembled, in order to secure to ourselves and posterity
the blessings of Union, do agree to adopt the following
Constitution and By-Laws.
Constitution. Article i. This Association shall
be styled the National Trades' Union of the United
States.
Article 2. The object of this Union shall be to pro-
mote the moral, physical, and intellectual condition of
the working classes, and to advance their pecuniary
interest.
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 305
Article 3. This Union shall be composed of Dele-
gates from the several Trades' Unions in the United
States, and from Trade Societies in places where no
Union exists, whose term of service shall be one year.
The ratio of representation shall be as follows:
Each Union of 200 members or less, i Delegate.
Not less than 300, 2 "
Do. 600, 3 "
Do. 1000, 4 "
Do. 1500, 5 "
Do. 2000 6 "
Each additional 1000, i "
Each Trade Society, i "
Not less than 200, 2 "
If the members exceed 300, the representation shall
be the same as Trades' Unions; but no Trade Society,
where a Union is in existence, shall be entitled to
send a Delegate, unless the said Union shall refuse to
do so.
Nothing herein contained, shall prevent a Trade So-
ciety from sending a Delegate, provided they defray
his expenses.
[Article 4 is practically the same as Article 3, Sec-
tion 2 of the 1835 constitution.]
Article 5. Section i. The officers of the Union shall
consist of a President, two Vice Presidents, a Recording
and Corresponding Secretary, and Warden, and shall
be elected at each annual meeting of the Convention.
[Sections 2 and 3 are practically the same as Article
I, Section 2 and 3 of the 1834 constitution.]
Article 6. It shall be the duty of the President to
preside at all meetings of the Union, preserve order,
decide all questions of order, (subject to an appeal)
have the casting vote when there \s, an equal division.
3o6 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
sign all orders on the Treasury, fill all vacancies during
the recess, and all other duties appertaining to his office.
[Article 7 is practically the same as Article 8 of the
1835 constitution.]
Article 8. The Recording Secretary shall keep all
books and papers belonging to his office, (which books
and papers shall at all times be open for the inspection
of the Delegates) keep a correct journal of all the pro-
ceedings of the Union, a list of the Unions and Trades
represented, with the names of Delegates, countersign
all orders drawn upon the Treasury, and at the expira-
tion of his term of office, removal or resignation, deliver
all such books and papers to his successor in office.
Article 9. The Corresponding Secretary shall keep
a correct copy of all correspondence concerning this
Union, read all communications, and in the absence of
the Recording Secretary perform the duties of his of-
fice, and such other duties as may to him belong.
Article 10. The Treasurer shall receive all moneys
belonging to the Union, pay all orders signed by the
President and countersigned by the Secretary, and shall
keep a correct account of all moneys by him received,
and shall give such security as the Union may direct.
Article i i. There shall be a Committee of Finance,
to consist of one Delegate from each Union, whose
duties it shall be to audit the accounts of the Union at
each meeting, direct the payment of the expenditures,
and such other duties as may be assigned, and report
the same.
Article 12. Section i. The different Unions and
Trade Societies composing the National Union, shall
levy the sum of two cents per month from each of their
members, for the purpose of creating a national fund,
which moneys shall be transmitted to the Treasurer of
six] NATIONAL TRADES' UNION 307
the National Union, at the next meeting of said Union.
Section 2. Any Union or Society belonging to this
Union, who shall refuse or neglect to pay their dues at
each annual meeting of the Union, shall forfeit their
membership, and shall not be readmitted till all dues
are paid.
Article 13. All acts or resolutions adopted by this
Union, shall be equally binding on the different Unions
and Societies who may ratify this Constitution.
Article 14. The National Union shall meet annual-
ly at such time and place as may be agreed upon at the
adjournment of each session, and the delegates to be
paid out of the Treasury.
Article 15. This Constitution shall go into opera-
tion when ratified by two-thirds of the Unions and So-
cieties herein represented; and altered or amended by
the concurrence of the same.
Article 16. The officers of this Union shall have
power to convene the same when considered necessary,
provided this power shall not be exercised more than
three times in each year, and that thirty days' notice
be given to each Union of the call of such meeting.
Article 17. By-Laws not repugnant to this Consti-
tution may be adopted at any time, a majority of the
Delegates present agreeing thereto.
Article 18. This Union shall not be dissolved, so
long as three represented Unions are disposed to con-
tinue the same.
5- THE CONVENTION OF i837
Public Ledger (Philadelphia), May 4, 1837, p. 2, col. 5.
This notice is the only evidence found, after diligent search, that a
convention of the National Trades' Unions v^as held in 1837.
Notice- National Convention of the Trades
Union
By a vote of the Convention, now in session at the
Military Hall, Library street, I am instructed to in-
vite the Workingmen and Citizens generally to at-
tend its sittings.
Joseph D. Miller, Sec'y of National Trades Union.
IX
NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS
INTRODUCTION
At least five national trade unions, or unions of local
societies within a single trade, were organized and held
conventions between 1835 ^^^ ^^37- These organiza-
tions were evidently outgrowths of the National Trades'
Union. The first national meeting of delegates from
a single trade, indeed, that of the cordwainers, was held
immediately after the adjournment of the National
Trades' Union convention in 1835, ^^^ ^^s a meeting
of cordwainers' delegates to that body preliminary to
the organization of their own union.
The first convention of a single trade was also that of
the cordwainers, which met at New York in March,
1836, transacted a considerable amount of business, and
adopted a constitution, which made special provision
for the support of societies on strike. A long report
was also adopted criticizing Judge Savage of New
York for his decision in the case of the Geneva cord-
wainers and recommending that immediate measures
be taken by the societies represented in the convention
to sustain and support the journeymen of Geneva.
There were present at this convention forty-five dele-
gates from New Haven, Connecticut; New York and
Brooklyn, New York; Newark, Elizabethtown, Rah-
way. Orange, New Brunswick, Bloomfield, Clinton,
and Paterson, New Jersey; Philadelphia, Easton,
Columbia, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania; and Wil-
mington, Delaware. Letters were received, too, from
312 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
cordwainers' societies at Troy, Albany, and Schenectady,
New York, and Washington, D.C. Another conven-
tion of cordwainers was called to meet at New York in
November, 1836, and still another to meet at Philadel-
phia in September, 1837, but no accounts of these con-
ventions have been discovered.
In the fall of 1836 four other national trade unions
were organized. The first was that of the comb-makers,
which issued an address "to their brethren throughout
the United States" urging them to keep up a regular
system of correspondence which had evidently been
begun some time previously. The carpenters and hand
loom weavers, as was mentioned in the introduction to
the chapter on the National Trades' Union, were hold-
ing conventions in Philadelphia at the time of the 1836
convention of the National Trades' Union. Of the
weavers' convention no record of proceedings has been
found, and the carpenters' convention appears to have
held only two sessions, and to have devoted itself chiefly
to the ten-hour question. Both of these conventions
were called by Philadelphia unions. At the carpenters'
convention delegates were present from Albany, Pitts-
burgh, Baltimore, Washington, and Philadelphia.
There was also a convention of printers held at
Washington in November, 1836, the initial impulse
towards which came from a circular issued by the Ty-
pographical Association of Cincinnati in the fall of
1835. The constitution and address of this convention
have been reprinted by Mr. Ethelbert Stewart in Bul-
letin 61 of the United States Bureau of Labor. Ex-
tracts from their proceedings, including all important
matter, are here given, together with a brief account of
the convention held in New York in the fall of 1837.
A call was issued for a third convention to be held in
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 313
Pittsburgh in September, 1838, but nothing further is
heard of the union.
Among other trades the need of national alliance was
recognized and local societies occasionally instructed
their secretaries to open correspondence. Among these
were the cabinet makers, coach-makers, spinners,
saddlers, and iron-molders. Though none of these calls
are known to have led to conventions, they are inter-
esting as showing a wide organization of local societies,
and attempts at national affiliation.
I. CORDWAINERS
(a) RESOLUTIONS REGARDING CORRESPONDENCE
National Trades' Union, April 25, 1835, p. 2, col. 4.
Resolutions passed at a meeting of the Ladies' Cordwainers Society
of New York on April 20, 1835.
Resolved, that this Society may authorize the Secre-
tary, whenever they may deem it expedient, to enter
into a mutual agreement with Societies with whom this
Society corresponds, not to admit as members, Jour-
neymen coming from places where Societies of this na-
ture are formed, except they produce a certificate of
having conformed to all lawful requirements of such
Society; and in case they come without a certificate,
be allowed one month to procure one. . .
After the Resolution had been read, the following
Resolutions were unanimously adopted:
Resolved, that we fully coincide with the Resolu-
tion passed by our fellow crafts of Philadelphia; and
we will hereafter receive no Journeymen, as Members
of our Society, who come from places where Societies,
with whom we have correspondence are situated, un-
less they produce a certificate from such Society: and
in case they bring no certificate with them, they shall
be allowed one month to procure one. . .
(b) THE PRELIMINARY MEETING IN 1835
National Trades' Union, Oct. lo, 1835, p. 3, col. 3.
This meeting was held in the evening of the last day of the convention
of the National Trades' Union.
At a meeting of Cordwainers' Delegates assembled in
New York, holden at the house of Richard Honkins,
NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 315
No. 15 York street, Oct. 6th, 1835, Mr. R. Honkins of
New York, was called to the chair, and Julius Moulton
of Troy, N.Y. was appointed Secretary. The chairman
explained the object of the meeting, which was to en-
deavor to form a general Union of Cordwainers
throughout the United States.
The following resolution was unanimously adopted.
Resolved, that we form ourselves into a committee
for the mutual benefit of the craft.
The following preambles and resolutions were unan-
imously adopted: whereas, an agreement has been en-
tered into between the associations of Cordwainers in
the city of New York to recommend to the several as-
sociations of the same trade throughout the United
States to form a National compact of the craft, there-
fore,
Resolved, that we the Delegates from the craft to
the National Convention of Trades assembled in the
city of New York, do approve of said recommendation,
and agree to recommend the same to our several asso-
ciations; and,
Whereas, a Circular of the Cordwainers' Associations
of the town of Newark, N.J. embodying principles and
regulations calculated to advance and preserve the
rights and interests of Trade Associations ; and
Whereas, said circular has been adopted by the Cord-
wainers' Association of the city of New York, and vari-
ous other places in the United States, therefore.
Resolved, that we will use all our best exertions to
forward the establishment of the principles and regu-
lations in said circular in all associations of the craft
in the United States with which we may become ac-
quainted.
Resolved, that these proceedings be signed by the
3i6 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
Delegates and published in the National Trades' Union.
Adjourned.
Richard Honkins, of New York, (Men's Branch.) ;
Julius Moulton, of Troy, N.Y.; Asa Scribner, of
Newark, N.J. (Men's Branch) ; WiLLiAM E. BOGART, of
N. York, (Ladies Branch.) ; A. W. Mayo, New Bruns-
wick, N.J.; Francis Gallagher, Baltimore, Mary-
land; E. M. Leonard, Newark, N.J.; S. C. Thomp-
son, Philadelphia, Penn.; N. B. GARDNER, Newark,
N.J.; Barnard Nurny, Newark, N.J.
(c) THE convention OF MARCH, 1836
(i) Call for the Convention.
National Trades' Union, Feb. 6, 1836, p. 2, col. 2.
Convention of Cordwainers. A Convention of
Cordwainers will be holden in the city of New York, to
commence on the first Monday in March, 1836, at the
14th Ward Hotel, corner of Grand and Elizabeth
streets.
The objects of this Convention are -to endeavor to
equalize the wages as nearly as possible -to create that
concert of action necessary to ensure a steady and suffi-
cient price for our labor, and to transact such other bus-
iness as shall be considered requisite.
All Societies of Cordwainers throughout the United
States are earnestly invited to send two or more dele-
gates to this Convention. Published by order of the
Ladies Cordwainers Society of New York.
Henry McEndow, John Worrall,
Feb. 6.-4t Oramel Bingham -Committee.
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 317
{2) Proceedings, from the National Trades' Union, March 26, 1836,
p. I, col. 1-4.
The pamphlet proceedings of this convention which were ordered to
be printed have never been found, and it is doubtful whether the
proceedings were ever published except in the National Trades'
Union, the only discovered copy of which is, unfortunately, somewhat
mutilated.
Proceedings of the Convention of Cordwainers,
holden in the City of New York, commencing on the
first Monday in March, 1836.
The Delegates to the Convention assembled on the
morning of the 7th of March, 1836, at the 14th Ward
Hotel, in the City of New York, and organized by call-
ing Mr. John Caney, of Philadelphia, to the Chair;
Mr. Joel B. Foot, of New Haven, Conn., and Mr.
Isaac Devon, of Wilmington, Del., were appointed
Vice Presidents; and Mr. William Carnes, of New
York, and Henry Lyon, of Newark, N.J., Secretaries.
The call of the Convention having been read and
approved, the following gentlemen presented their cre-
dentials, and took their seats as members of the Con-
vention:
Names of Delegates and the Societies they rep-
resent. New Haven Society-Joel B. Foot, Daniel C.
Augur; New York Society, (Ladies' Branch) -Wil-
liam Masterson, Cyrus A. Mead, Oramel Bingham;
New York U.B. Society, (Men's Branch) -Henry M.
Jackson, William Carnes, Richard Connolly; Newark,
N.J., U.B. Society- Asa Scribner, Jerome Beers; New-
ark, N.J., Ladies' Shoe and Men's Pump Makers' So-
ciety-Moses Lee, Enos M. Leonard; Newark, N.J.,
Boot Fitters' Society- James H. Arbour; Newark,
N.J., Fudge Boot and Shoe Makers' Society-William
Sayre, Henry Lyon; Elizabethtown, N.J., Society-
Samuel Davis, William Connell; Rahway, N.J., So-
3i8 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ciety-J. B. Crowell, William Congar; Orange, NJ.,
Society- C. F. D. Jones, James Matthews, Garratt
Ketchum; New Brunswick, N.J., Society -William
Baker, William Knowles; Philadelphia, Pa., U.B. So-
ciety, (Men's Branch) -William English, Andrew
Read, James Gibbons; Philadelphia, Pa., U.B. Soci-
ety, (Ladies' Branch) -John Caney, William Tice,
John F. Read; Easton, Pa., Society- David S. Roberts;
Columbia, Pa., Society -William H. Thurber, Wil-
liam Donaldson; Lancaster, Pa., Society- Michael Bun-
del, Christian Gaston; Wilmington, Del., Society-
Isaac Devou, John McGrann; Paterson, N.J., Society-
A. D. Ackerman, Christian Brinkerhoff; Bloomfield,
N.J., Society-William Mahar; Clinton, N.J., Society-
Michael Riley, Ezra Gardner; Brooklyn, N.Y., Soci-
ety-Thomas Jones, Daniel Hand, Isaac Robins.
Letters were received from Troy, Albany, and Schen-
ectady, N.Y., and Washington, D.C., expressing their
warmest approbation of the objects of the contemplated
Convention, and declaring their readiness to co-oper-
ate in any measures the Convention may recommend;
and expressing their regret that the severity of the sea-
son, and consequent expense of travelling, prevented
their attendance by delegation. On motion, the letters
were accepted, and copies of the proceedings ordered
to be transmitted to the above Societies.
On motion, Messrs. Leonard, English, and Bingham,
were appointed a Committee to draft rules of order
for the government of this Convention. A motion was
made to adjourn until 2 o'clock, and lost. Mr. Tice
then offered the following resolution : resolved, that a
committee of seven be appointed to take into consider-
ation the propriety of forming a National Union of
Cordwainers, and to report a Constitution for the gov-
ernment of the same.
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 319
On motion, the above resolution was laid on the table,
to enable the Committee on Rules of Order to report.
The committee accordingly reported the following,
which were accepted, and finally adopted as the Rules
for the government of this Convention.
Order of Business, ist. The roll shall be called.
2nd. The minutes of the last meeting shall be read.
3rd. Unfinished business. 4th. Reports of commit-
tees. 5th. Miscellaneous business.
Rules of Order, ist. Every resolution or motion
shall, at the request of the presiding officer, or any mem-
ber be reduced to writing.
2nd. When a question is under debate, no motion
shall be in order, except to adjourn -to lay on the
table -for the previous question -to postpone -to com-
mit- or to amend.
3rd. Motions to adjourn, to lay on the table and for
the previous question, shall be taken without debate.
4th. Every member about to speak, shall rise and
address himself to the presiding officer, confine himself
to the question under debate, and speak but twice on the
same question, unless by permission from the Conven-
tion.
5th. When two or more persons rise at the same time,
the Chair shall name the member to whom precedence
is given.
6th. Motions to reconsider must be made by a mem-
ber who has voted in the majority.
7th. At the request of one-fifth of the members
present, the ayes and noes on any question may be taken
and entered on the minutes.
8th. A majority of the Convention shall compose a
quorum for the transaction of business.
9th. A motion to adjourn shall be always in order.
loth. Any rule or by-law may be suspended in its
320 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
operation for any particular occasion, by the concur-
rence of two-thirds of the members present.
nth. Each regulation or law, in order to be valid,
shall be sanctioned by a majority of the members
present.
1 2th. On all questions for filling up blanks, the larg-
est number and longest time shall be first in order. . .
Afternoon Session. . . Mr. Tice's resolution
being the unfinished business of the morning, was then
called up.
The resolution, after some discussion, was modified
with the consent of the mover, and adopted as follows:
resolved, that a Committee of seven be appointed to
draft a plan of co-operation among the various Soci-
eties of Cordwainers of the United States, with a view
of sustaining each other in all strikes within their re-
spective limits. The following delegates were appoint-
ed said Committee: William English, C. F. D. Jones,
Enos M. Leonard, Oramel Bingham, William W.Tice,
Michael Bundle, and John McGrann.
Mr. Leonard offered the following resolution, which
was adopted: resolved, that a Committee, to consist of
one from each Society herein represented, be appointed
to report the following particulars relative to each So-
ciety: ist. What time has transpired since an advance
has been obtained. 2nd. What per cent, was the ad-
vance. 3rd. Statement of the present wages. 4th.
What societies contemplate an advance the present
spring. 5th. What advance they expect. 6th. The
number of members in each Society; and any other in-
formation the committee may deem expedient.
The following delegates were appointed said com-
mittee: D. C. Augur, O. Bingham, Henry M. Jack-
son, Asa Scribner, Moses Lee, James H. Arbour, Wil-
liam Sayre, Samuel Davis, J. B. Crowell, C. F. D.
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 321
Jones, William Baker, James Gibbons, John F. Read,
Daniel S. Roberts, William Donaldson, Michael Bun-
dle, Isaac Devou, A. D. Ackerman, William Mahar,
and Michael Riley. . .
Morning Session, March 8th. . . The Commit-
tees were called on to report. The Committee on a
plan of co-operation not being ready to report, the
Committee on Mr. Leonard's resolution reported, an
abstract of which is as follows:
The numbers of the Craft represented in this Con-
vention is upwards of five thousand, all of which (ex-
cept the New Brunswick Society at present on strike)
have advanced their wages during the past year. The
average advance is about 16 per cent. Six Societies
intend to advance their wages as soon as possible on an
average of 1 1 per cent, and six Societies are uncertain
whether a strike will take place or not. The Commit-
tee recommended that a Committee be appointed to
compare the different lists of wages, and draft a general
bill.
The report was on motion accepted, and pursuant to
the recommendation of the Committee, the following
resolution was adopted. Resolved, that a Committee
of three from each branch be appointed to compare
the different lists of wages, and draft a general bill.
The following delegates were appointed said Com-
mittee: Messrs. Mathews, Augur, and Gibbons, of the
Men's branch, and Messrs. Masterson, Lee, and J. F.
Read, of the Ladies' branch.
Mr. English submitted the following preamble and
resolutions : whereas, a surplus of the products of labor
is calculated in almost all cases to reduce the wages of
labor; and whereas, the evils of excessive competition
amongst the journeymen bears peculiarly heavy on those
of our own trade ; and, whereas, a reduction in the num-
322 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ber of the hours of labor has been productive of benefi-
cial results in the character and condition of other me-
chanics: with a view to enable the Journeymen Cord-
wainers of all branches to enjoy the advantages pecuni-
arily, intellectually, and physically resulting from a re-
duction of the number of hours of labor -be it resolved,
that it is seriously recommended to the journeymen
comprising the various Societies represented in this Con-
vention, to reduce the number of their working hours,
so as to conform as near as practicable to the rules
adopted by outdoor mechanics, believing that by so do-
ing they will be better enabled to obtain a proper com-
pensation for their labor- inasmuch as the evils of an
[Part of the report, evidently including the first and
most of the second article of the constitution, is clipped
out] labor, to promote unity and concert of action for
its attainment, and to devise means for the moral, in-
tellectual, and physical improvement of the operative
Cordwainers of the United States.
Article hi. Each Society, represented in this As-
sociation, shall be entitled to send delegates in propor-
tion to their number of members, as follows, viz: a
Society consisting of fifty members or less, shall be en-
titled to send one delegate; over fifty and under one
hundred and fifty, two delegates; over one hundred and
fifty and under five hundred, three delegates, and over
five hundred members, four delegates.
Article iv. The government of the Association,
shall be vested in a President, two Vice-Presidents, a
Recording and a Corresponding Secretary, who shall
hold office for one year.
Article v. All Societies entering into this Associ-
ation shall hold regular quarterly correspondence, and
shall impart to each Society represented all designs for
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 323
the improvement of the Trade for the ensuing quarter,
and the means contemplated for their attainment.
Article VI. For all contemplated strikes for wages,
or in resisting any reduction of the same, immediate
notice shall be given to all the Societies represented in
the Association. Special meetings of those Societies
shall be called forthwith on the receipt of an official
notice by the Secretary, and a levy of not less than six
and one-fourth cents per week made upon each member
to support such strikes -provided, that such levy shall
not be made unless pecuniary aid is demanded by the
Society on strike.
Article vil Whenever any Society belonging to
the Association shall be on strike, no certificate shall be
granted by any other Society to its members for the
purpose of visiting (with the intention of working,) the
city or town where such strike exists. An infringement
of this rule by any member after having obtained a cer-
tificate, shall be considered an act of scabbing, and shall
subject the offender to a fine of not less than five dollars.
Article VIII. All moneys received by a Society
demanding aid for the support of a strike from the other
Societies belonging to the Association, shall be placed
to the credit of the Society from which it is received,
and any unappropriated portion thereof shall be refund-
ed on demand -provided, that when moneys are to be
refunded, it shall be done in exact proportion to the
number of members of the Society contributing. And
provided, also, that at the termination of a strike, an
accurate account of all moneys received and disbursed
shall be forwarded to each Society belonging to this
Association.
Article IX. Whenever any member of a Society be-
longing to this Association shall enter a city or town
324 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
where a Society belonging to the Association may exist,
and shall be unable to procure employment, to obviate
the necessity of his working at reduced wages,
dollars shall be given to said member by such Society to
enable him to pursue his journey.
Article x. These articles shall go into full and ef-
fective operation with all Societies agreeing with the
same, on and after the fourth Monday of September,
1836.
All of which is respectfully submitted. Signed,
William English, E. M. Leonard, O. Bingham,
C. F. D. Jones, John McGrann, Michael
BuNDEL, William W. Tice- Committee.
The report w^as on motion accepted, and each article
adopted separately.
The Committee appointed to draft a standard list of
wages, made a report, which was accepted. . .
Morning Session, March 9th. The Convention met
pursuant to adjournment and on motion, the rules of
the Convention were suspended for the purpose of con-
sidering the decision of Judge Savage in relation to com-
binations. The decision was read, and Mr. English
offered the following preamble and resolution, which
were adopted. Whereas, this Convention has assembled
for the purpose of devising means to improve the moral
and physical condition of the Journeymen Cordwainers
of the United States; and whereas, it is through the
action of several Societies represented in this Conven-
tion, that it is contemplated to affect such improvement,
and by no other means; and, whereas, all Trade Soci-
eties are deemed by Judge Savage unlawful conspira-
cies, and are thereby rendered obnoxious to the action of
the Statute Law, therefore, be it resolved, that a Com-
mittee of five be appointed to examine the opinion of
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 325
Judge Savage, and report thereon such preamble and
resolutions as may be warranted by that document.
Messrs. English, Leonard, Bingham, Lee, and Math-
ews, were appointed said committee.
The consideration of the report of the committee
on a Standard List of Wages was resumed, and after
some discussion the following resolution, offered by
Mr. English, was adopted: resolved, that the Conven-
tion resolve itself into sub-committees -each delegation
forming one sub-committee: said sub-committee to re-
port on the highest bill of wages contemplated to be
struck for the ensuing season; the said reports or bills
of wages to be referred to a special committee of seven
from each branch, in order to draft therefrom a stan-
dard bill of wages for the societies represented in this
Convention.
The Convention then adjourned for thirty minutes,
in order to give time to the sub-committees to prepare
their reports. At the expiration of the time the Con-
vention was called to order; and the sub-committees
having reported, the following delegates were appoint-
ed as the special committees to whom the reports were re-
ferred: Messrs. Jackson, Scribner, Gibbons, McGrann,
Donaldson, Lyon, and Foot, were appointed on the
Men's branch -and Messrs. J. F. Read, Mead, Bundel,
Augur, Lee, Devou, and Congar, were appointed on
the Ladies' branch. . .
Afternoon Session. The Convention met pursu-
ant to adjournment; the roll was called; and the min-
utes of the last session read and approved. The Com-
mittee appointed to make out a standard list of wages,
reported on the women's branch -which report was ac-
cepted.
The Committee on the Men's Branch not being
326 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
ready to report, the following resolution was offered
by Mr. Jones, and adopted: resolved, that when this
Convention adjourn, it shall be to meet at this house
at 7 o'clock this evening, and form a procession, pre-
ceded by the officers, and to proceed to Cronley's, 15
Park Row, to attend the meeting of the General Trades'
Union of this city, pursuant to the invitation of that
body.
Mr. Caney offered the following resolution, which
was adopted: resolved, that this Convention do hereby
recommend to the different Societies herein represented,
the propriety of encouraging the formation of Societies
of the Females working on Boot and Shoe-Binding and
Cording, for the purpose of increasing their wages.
The following resolution, accompanying law, was
offered by Mr. Caney, and adopted: resolved, by this
Convention, that the annexed law of the U.B. Society
of Journeymen Cordwainers on the Ladies Branch of
the city and county of Philadelphia, be, and is hereby
referred to the consideration of the various Societies
herein represented:
Law 4TH. No member of this Society shall instruct any appren-
tice or boy of any employer until within six months of his being free,
under a penalty of twenty dollars: Provided, that nothing herein
shall go to annul any written or legal obligation made by any mem-
ber with an employer respecting apprentices or boys.
The following resolution was then offered by Mr.
English : resolved, that it be recommended to the various
Societies represented in this Convention, that they take
up the subject of Apprentices, so as to prevent any mem-
ber of a represented Society from taking more than two
apprentices at one time: one of which shall not be taken
until within the last year of the time of a previous ap-
prentice: provided, that no existing contract shall be
impaired. . .
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 327
Afternoon Session. . . The consideration of the
resolution offered by Mr. English was resumed, and,
after considerable debate adopted.
The following preamble and resolution were offered
by Mr. Beers, and adopted: whereas, we, as delegates
to this Convention, feeling a deep interest in the wel-
fare of the Cordwainers throughout the United States,
and knowing the rates of wages in the eastern states
are far below those given in the middle and southern
states; and being assured, that Societies being formed
and well-organized, is the plan best calculated to in-
sure prices equivalent for our labor- therefore enter-
taining these views we deem it expedient and necessary
to adopt some measures requisite to carry into efiect
the object of this Convention, viz., to equalize the wages
throughout the United States as far as practicable, in
proportion to the expense of living -therefore resolved,
that a committee of three be appointed to prepare and
publish an address to the Cordwainers of the United
States, more particularly the eastern states, during the
recess of the Convention, urging them to employ all
honorable means to obtain a just compensation for their
labor. Messrs. English, Caney, and J. F. Read were
appointed said committee.
On motion, it was resolved, that the Committee on
the Address be empowered to publish 1000 copies of the
same, and draw upon the Publishing Committee for the
expenses,
Mr. Leonard oflfered the following resolutions, which
were adopted. Resolved, that this Convention recom-
mend, that the Ladies' Cordwainers of Newark, the
Cordwainers of Elizabethtown, N.J., the Cordwain-
ers of Bloomfield, N.J., and the Ladies' Cordwainers
of Philadelphia, and such other Societies, as may deem
it expedient- strike for an advance of wages as soon as
328 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
possible; and that we also recommend that each of the
above Societies in asking an advance, present a Bill of
Wages, which shall not be less than a reduction of 6 per
cent on the Standard Bill adopted by this Convention.
Resolved, that each Society herein represented, be rec-
ommended to use all proper exertions to procure the
adoption of the Standard Bill of Wages, agreed upon
by this Convention, as soon as practicable.
The following resolution, offered by Mr. English
was adopted: resolved, that the importation of foreign
boots and shoes, of all kinds, is destructive to the inter-
ests of the journeymen engaged in the manufacture of
these indespensable articles, inasmuch as they are dis-
posed of at reduced prices, and thereby cause a reduc-
tion of wages, it is therefore recommended to the vari-
ous Societies herein represented, to take immediate and
efficient measures to prevent the disposal of such work,
by refusing their labor to any person engaged in im-
porting or vending such articles.
The following resolution was offered by Mr. J. F.
Read, and adopted: resolved, that the practice of man-
ufacturing boots and shoes in the various penitentiaries
of the United States, be earnestly recommended to the
consideration of the Societies represented in this Con-
vention, so that the subject of State Prison work com-
ing in competition with that of the honest Cordwainer
may be fairly and fully investigated, and if found prac-
ticable, to refuse to work for any establishment that may
hold for sale boots or shoes manufactured by convicts
in the penitentiaries.
The following resolutions were offered by Mr. En-
glish, and adopted: resolved, that it be seriously recom-
mended to the Men's Branch Society of Journeymen
Cordwainers of the city of New York, to alter their laws
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 329
SO as to admit all men engaged in the making of men's
work into their Society, believing, as we do, that the
only way to renovate the trade is to enlist the feelings
and services of all connected with the business.
Resolved, that the present officers of this Convention
be acknowledged as the regular officers of the Associa-
tion just formed, until the first annual meeting of the
Association in September next, and that they have power
to call said meeting and designate the place.
The following resolutions offered by Mr. J. F. Read,
were adopted: resolved, that a copy of the proceedings
of this Convention be transmitted to each of the Soci-
eties that this Convention has any knowledge of, earnest-
ly requesting of them to give the recommendations
therein contained their earliest consideration. Re-
solved, that the Secretaries of this Convention be, and
hereby are instructed, to carry the above resolution
into effect in conjunction with the publishing Com-
mittee. . ,
The following resolutions were oflfered and adopted.
Resolved, that the Committee on Publication be in-
structed to procure five hundred copies of the proceed-
ings of this Convention in pamphlet form, and also to
request its publication in the National Trades' Union.
Resolved, that the Committee on Publication be em-
powered to make out a bill of the whole expenses
incurred by this Convention, and assess the different
Societies herein represented in proportion to their num-
bers.
Resolved, that the thanks of this Convention be pre-
sented to Mr. Wm. R. Yarraington, [sic] for his liberal-
ity in furnishing a room, for the use of this Convention.
Resolved, that this Convention do now adjourn.
330 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol
(d) CALL FOR A CONVENTION IN NOVEMBER, 1836 |
National Laborer, Oct. 22, 1836, p. 123, col. 4.
To THE Trade Societies of Journeymen Cordwainers
in the United States.
The undersigned officers of the late convention of
Cordwainers, held by appointment in the city of New
York, in March last, have agreed that the Convention
shall meet again in the said city of New York, and the
time of meeting shall be on the second Monday (the
14th of the month) of November next.
Those Societies who have adopted the Constitution of
the "National Co-operative Association of Journeymen
Cordwainers," are requested to send their required num-
ber of Delegates to represent their interest in said Con-
vention. The Delegates to be provided with the neces-
sary credentials from the Societies they are chosen to
represent.
All Societies of Journeymen Cordwainers throughout
the United States, are now earnestly solicited to send
one or more persons to this meeting, or address thereto
such communications as they deem proper for the ad-
vancement of the objects in view. By authority of the
officers.
President, JOHN Caney, of Philadelphia;
Vice President, JOEL B. FOOT, of N.H., (Con.) ;
Rec. Secretary, Wm. Carns, of New York.
(e) CALL FOR A CONVENTION IN SEPTEMBER, 1837
Public Ledger, Sept. 23, 1837, p. 2, col. 5.
The National Association of Journeymen Cordwain-
ers of the U. States, will assemble in this city, on Mon-
day next, the 25th inst. at the Military Hall, at 10
o'clock. -By order, Wm. E. Bogert, New York, Pres-
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 331
ident', W. L. McCauley, Baltimore, W. R. Boggit, Al-
bany, Vice Presidents'^ A. A. Eager, Baltimore, Rec.
Secretary] D. A. Osborn, Brooklyn, Cor. Secretary.
The Journeymen Cordwainers of the City and Coun-
ty, are invited to attend, as seats will be provided for
their accommodation by the Committee of Arrange-
ments. S23-It
2. COMB-MAKERS
National Laborer, Sept. lo, 1836, p. 98, col. 3.
There is no evidence that the "next convention" here referred to was
ever held.
Whereas : we, the Delegated Members from the sev-
eral Associations of Journeymen Comb Makers, now
assembled for the purpose of consulting the best inter-
ests of the Trade, in general, deem it a duty we owe to
our constituents, to lay before them a statement of the
prospects of the different Associations of which we are
composed. And although the Associations have not
succeeded in their designs as well as could be wished,
yet it is still in some degree cheering, that in many in-
stances, the Trade has been much improved. We have,
however, to regret that our brethren of the more East-
ern States have not joined us in convention, and that at
present we do not profess any certain knowledge of their
prospects; the reason of this is perhaps owing in great
measure to the neglect of keeping up a regular corres-
pondence between the different Societies, and we now
earnestly urge it upon the different Associations, to
have more frequent communications with each other.
Many reports have been put in circulation that have
been detrimental to the best interests of the Journeymen.
First; that certain Societies did not strike for an ad-
vance on the 1 6th of March last; and that others had
been broken up. Reports, we presume, got into circu-
lation by Employers who are opposed to the interests of
the Journeymen ; and by Journeymen who do not regard
their own interests as they should. Reports which, we
are happy to say, are untrue, as far as we have any cer-
NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 333
tain knowledge; the effects of these reports might prove
fatal to Associations, where correspondence is neglected.
Therefore, we do earnestly recommend to all not to
neglect giving, at least, monthly information to all As-
sociations that are now formed, of the advantages that
must result from an Association of Journeymen. And
we would earnestly impress the necessity of union
amongst the individual members of all Societies, to
drop all selfish feelings, and to remember that the
prosperity of one individual depends upon the pros-
perity of all. There is one truth that we should have
strongly impressed upon our minds; hitherto we have
worked too much with our hands, and too little with
our heads -this has been an error. When will Mechan-
ics and Workingmen be wise, wise to their own inter-
est; let us attend more to the wants of the mind, than
we have heretofore. Working less with the body for
a better compensation, cultivating our minds, in order
to work less time. We find but little difference in man
in any quarter, we find him placed in all stations, as
circumstances permit him -from the elevated Emper-
or, to the subservient Slave; why do we find this
variety? is it not for the want of education on the part
of the poor, that we find forms of government estab-
lished, where power is placed in the hands of the few
to govern the many? we must answer, it is. We find
man placed under as great a variety of circumstances,
probably in this country as any other, and we find man
as willing to trample on his fellow man here, as in the
most despotic government. Though we boast of our
republic, its laws administered by the servants of the
people, its liberal Institutions &c. ; how do we enjoy
ourselves under its laws? how do we feel the benefits
of its public Institutions? First, by being indicted as
334 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
conspirators, for contending for what is right, and re-
pelling what is tyrannical and unjust- for asking a fair
remuneration for our services, and for supporting the
weak against the strong; how do we feel the benefit of
our public Institutions? by being forced to support
them. Our wages reduced, our families turned out of
doors in an inclement season of the year, and we thrown
into prison, which they (good souls) take care to pro-
vide for us. Under consideration of these facts, we urge
upon the working classes the necessity of forming them-
selves into Societies, as it is the only means by which
we can obtain our object. We would remind the mem-
bers of the different Societies, of the propriety of con-
ducting themselves in a mild and prudent manner, as
our cause is a just one, and can be obtained only by un-
ion among ourselves.
What shall we say more, can we say anything that
will have a tendency to bind us more close to our own
interest? We have seen the salutary effects that a union
in other trades has accomplished ; and shall we now turn
back after doing what we have done towards bettering
our condition; without unity of action, we can accom-
plish but little: the laws of our country are formed for
the benefit of the many, and shall the many submit to
the dictation of the few, to the injury of the many: let
our motto be, "the greatest good to the greatest num-
ber." Let us therefore, support our just rights, and
not be trampled under foot. We have not been too
hasty in our endeavours to promote the general inter-
ests of the trade; we have weighed the matter well, and
are convinced, that the position w^e have taken is just
and right, and that it is a duty we owe to ourselves,
to our families, and those depending upon us for sup-
port, that we must persevere in our humble efforts to
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 335
promote the interests of the cause in which we have em-
barked; we do not wish to use any harsh epithets to-
wards those Employers who have opposed us in our
endeavours to better our condition: convinced that if
they would take the same view of the subject that we
have, they would not oppose us, but would see that it is
to their advantage, that a uniformity of prices should
be established, and that it would promote the interests of
all concerned in the trade, either as Employers or Jour-
neymen. We leave the subject for the present, hoping
that at the next convention, the subject will be taken up
by more able hands, and that these few remarks may be
of some benefit to us all. Approved of in Convention.
Joseph Dowling, Chairman.
Henry D. Johnson, Secretary.
3. CARPENTERS
(a) CALL FOR A CONVENTION
National Laborer, Oct. 15, 1836, p. 119, col. 5.
At a meeting of the Journeymen House Carpenters'
Association of the City and County of Philadelphia
held Aug. 19th, it was unanimously
Resolved, that a National Convention of Carpenters
be called to meet at Philadelphia on the 4th Monday
of October ensuing.
It is confidently hoped that all Journeymen House
Carpenters in the United States, who are united in So-
cieties, will take measures to send delegates to the Con-
vention. An earnest invitation is also given to those in
places where no Society exists, to choose delegates from
a general meeting of the trade.
Wm. Thompson, Pres.-WM. W. Jeffries, Sec.
(b) PROCEEDINGS OF THE CONVENTION
National Laborer, Nov. 19, 1836, p. 140, col. 3.
There is no evidence that the convention called for April, 1837, at
Baltimore, was ever held.
National Convention of Journeymen House
Carpenters
Military Hall, Philada., Oct. 24th, 1836.
The Convention organized by calling Amaziah Whit-
ney, of Albany, to the chair, and appointing John Par-
sons, of Pittsburg, Secretary. The President having
read the call of the Convention, it was resolved, that the
Delegates present their credentials, when Delegates
from Albany, Pittsburg, Baltimore, Washington, and
Philadelphia, appeared and took their seats in the Con-
vention.
NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 337
On motion of James Douglass, a committee of three
were appointed to draft a Constitution and By-Laws for
the government of this Convention, when the Conven-
tion appointed James Douglass, of Washington; Wil-
liam Thompson, of Philadelphia; John Parsons, of
Pittsburg.
On motion of Allen Bard a committee of three were
appointed to draft an address to be submitted to the
different societies throughout the United States, when
Allen Bard, Wm. Thompson, and John T. Ash were
appointed that committee. On motion of Wm. Thomp-
son, a committee of five were appointed to draft a pre-
amble and resolutions on the ten hour system, when
John Parsons, Andrew Craig, Allen Bard, Robert E.
Shultz, and John T. Ash were appointed that commit-
tee. . .
Wednesday Evening, 7 o'clock. . . The com-
mittee to draft a constitution and by-laws, reported that
they deem it advisable to defer the drafting of a con-
stitution till the next meeting of the Convention.
The committee which was appointed to draft a pre-
amble and resolutions on the Ten Hour System, re-
ported the following preamble and resolutions, which
were, on motion, taken up separately and adopted.
Preamble. The time having arrived when it be-
hooves all men attached to the mechanical branch of
Carpentry in the United States, to take united steps to
further and accomplish the great design of establish-
ing the ten hour system throughout this great country
of liberty (the United States of America) we therefore
deem it an imperative duty incumbent on all men, as
well as all Associations, to lay their whole strength to
it, in order that equality may reign amongst us, and
that the power of oppression may be subdued, and the
oppressor may feel the scourge of his own rod, by the
338 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
mighty and overruling arm of justice which the work-
ing men of this country ask for, nothing more, and
which can be obtained by unity and perseverance, is
what this delegation wishes to imbibe in the minds of
our fellow-workmen throughout the country, and hop-
ing that they will employ every efifort to accomplish
this great design. It is the sincere desire of this dele-
gation, that the Carpenters in all the states, counties,
cities, towns, and villages in the United States, do forth-
with set every forcible argument to work, and to use
all lawful means to have trade societies and union of
societies established in each state, county, city, borough,
&c., to co-operate one with another, to obtain the great
object of equal rights with mankind, which is most de-
sired, and which would have a great tendency to amel-
iorate the condition of the working classes of the United
States, and make them able not only for daily labor,
but fit them for the highest offices in the gift of the peo-
ple, which cannot be obtained if the workman has to
be nailed to the bench from daylight to dark, without
any intermission, save to eat his scanty meals. It is the
opinion of this delegation that the ten hour system
should be established throughout the United States;
for as all men are born free and equal, it is highly im-
portant that the Workingmen should enjoy a portion
of that equality, that their days may not be cut short
for want of recreation that is so essential to mankind.
And whereas it is strongly recommended by this del-
egation that an Annual Convention of Carpenters of
the United States would be a great benefit to the cause,
and would extend that knowledge so anxiously sought
for in all parts of the country, notwithstanding the
extraordinary exertions that is put in opposition to the
Workingmen, by some of the executive officers.
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 339
And whereas the great work of reformation has tak-
en place in many of the principal cities of the United
States, and knowing the happy results of such a change,
we look forward for the day when it shall have extend-
ed throughout the whole country, when every Work-
ingman will be awakened to a sense of his right and
duty, to dispose of his labor as he may think best, and
not to be governed by the will and pleasure of an un-
principled and unfeeling employer. We view this as
an important matter -one that must benefit the whole
laboring community, and injure none but those that
would trample upon the rights and liberties of the
working classes of the community. Therefore, be it
Resolved, that the objects of this Convention is to
establish and secure the ten hour system, and such other
regulations in our trade as may be conducive to the in-
terests of the Journeyman House Carpenters of the
United States.
Resolved, that in the opinion of this Convention that
there should be a corresponding uniformity of prices
throughout the different towns, villages, and cities in
the United States. It should then be the duty of every
member of the trade to concentrate and use all his in-
fluence in establishing societies where they do not now
exist, in order to consolidate the great body of the trade,
and bring them into one solid phalanx which would be
immoveable.
Resolved, that this Convention strongly recommend
to all Journeymen House Carpenters of the various
cities, towns, villages, &c. in the United States, to use
all fair and honorable exertions to establish Trade So-
cieties and Trade Unions.
Resolved, that the thanks of this delegation be ten-
dered to those Associations that have taken it into con-
340
AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
sideration to send delegates to represent them in the
National Convention of Carpenters, and hoping at their
next meeting that all Societies in the United States will
be represented; for in union and perseverance against
oppression, the oppressor must fall, and that under the
scrutinizing eyes of justice.
Resolved, that the convention recommend to the dif-
ferent Societies of Journeymen House Carpenters to
make correspondence one with another, as will be es-
sential to the interest of the whole as a body.
Resolved, that this Convention highly approve of
holding a Convention of Journeymen House Carpen-
ters of the United States, at such time and place as
the respective Societies may from time to time desig-
nate.
The committee appointed to prepare an address, re-
ported that owing to the limited time allotted to the
committee, they had not been able to discharge that
duty.
On motion, resolved, that this Convention is of opin-
ion that it is expedient to hold a National Convention
of Carpenters, on the first Monday of April, 1837, at
the city of Baltimore, and that the Corresponding Sec-
retary be instructed to ascertain the views of as many of
the Societies as possible, and if agreed to by a major-
ity of the Societies, that he be instructed to call the
Convention at that time, or whatever time Societies
may propose.
On motion, Andrew Craig was then chosen Corres-
ponding Secretary. . .
4. HAND LOOM WEAVERS
(a) THE CALL OF THE NEW YORK WEAVERS
National Trades' Union, Feb. 13, 1836, p. 2, col. 3.
A special meeting of the Hand Loom Weavers' As-
sociation, of this city, was held this evening in New
Spring Garden, for the purpose of devising measures
to obtain an advance of prices, the present scale being
totally inadequate to procure the means of a comfort-
able and respectable living to which their industry so
justly entitles them. Various speakers addressed the
meeting, and all agreed in representing their situation
as yearly becoming worse in consequence of the ad-
vance of house rents and other necessary expenses, with-
out a corresponding advance of wages. The following
resolutions were then offered by Mr. Joseph Thompson,
and unanimously adopted:
Resolved, that the wages at present obtained by Hand
Loom Weavers is quite incompetent to procure the
means of a comfortable sustenance, and far below that
which is generally obtained by other mechanics.
Resolved, that it is, in the estimation of this Associa-
tion, highly necessary that a Convention of Delegates
from the several bodies of Associated Hand Loom
Weavers in the United States, shall be held, on or be-
fore the 8th of March next, at Philadelphia, in order
fully to investigate the evils which affects our trade;
whether they result from forcing or home competi-
tion, or from the product of the power loom, or from all
these and other sources; and that a remedy, if possible
might be devised. Likewise, that the Delegates might
342 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
arrive at a clear knowledge where to fix the standard of
prices to be paid for the various fabrics of Hand Loom
Weaving throughout the United States.
Resolved, that the Associated Weavers of Philadel-
phia, Baltimore, Steubenville, and Paterson, are re-
quested to forward immediately communications to
their brethren in New York on this subject.
John Johnston, Pres't pro tem.-HucH Glass, Sec'y.
New York, Feb. 8, 1836.
(b) THE CALL OF THE PHILADELPHIA WEAVERS
National Laborer, Oct. 22, 1836, p. 123, col. 4.
At a special meeting of the Hand Loom Weavers'
Trade Association, No. i, of the city and vicinity of
Philadelphia, held September 23d, it was on motion
Resolved, that our Corresponding Secretary write to
New York, Baltimore and Steubenville, and to other
places in the United States, where Weavers' societies
were known to exist, and request said societies to send
delegates to represent them in the National Convention
of Weavers, to be held at Philadelphia, on the fourth
Tuesday in October ensuing.
Having complied with the above injunction, and re-
ceiving no answer except from the Weaver's society of
New York, we therefore take this opportunity of again
requesting societies to send delegates to represent them
in said Convention, as business which will enhance the
trade is anticipated.
The Convention will be held at the house of Mr.
Thomas Crilly, north Sixth street, near Market.
John Hayes, President. -Wm. Aspinall, Secretary.
5. PRINTERS
(a) EXTENSION OF THE AREA OF COMPETITION
National Trades' Union, Oct. 17, 1835, p. 2, col. 4.
The following extracts from the circular issued by the CinciuDati
Typographical Association are said to have comprised "the principal
part of it." No complete copy of this circular has been found, but
other documents relating to the first convention of the National Typo-
graphical Union have been republished in Bulletin no. 61 of the
United States Bureau of Labor.
Our association, as societies, is not to oppress others,
but for self-defence. To secure a living compensation
for our labor, and to sustain the generous and liberal
employer who is willing to allow such compensation.
To defend ourselves from undermining and base-spir-
ited journeymen ; and thereby protect our friends among
employers, from those of their number who would take
advantage of their liberality -who would under-work
master's prices, by dispensing a beggarly pittance to
their journeymen. We have still another and a higher
motive -it is benevolence. We create a fund, for the
relief of those whom chance, or sickness, has reduced to
distress.
There are persons in the community, who bitterly
denounce such combinations among journeymen me-
chanics. Who are they? Is it the fair dealing and hon-
orable master workman? No! he rejoices that, as the
regulations of our society place all on the same level,
his neighbor cannot undermine him by oppressing his
journeymen. Those only object, who would live by
grinding others; or the mean and sordid wretch, who
foresees, from such measures among operatives, an in-
creased price for mechanical products, and grudges
344 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
the few extra coppers he may have to pay to the always
ill-requited laboring man. Employers cannot suffer
by us, unless we pursue a suicidal policy to ourselves.
If our regulations bear oppressively anywhere, it is on
the public -on the purchasers of the products of our
labor, who are alone affected by the graduations of our
prices.
Convinced, therefore, that it is correct for us to asso-
ciate for the purpose of maintaining our rights, it is
also necessary to adopt such measures as will give force
and effect to our union. Hitherto, although the up-
right and honorable of our craft, in the different soci-
eties of the country, have struggled manfully, and often
successfully, it has always been at a sacrifice -it has
always, too, been a struggle. Success, however, has not
invariably attended their efforts, even when the evils
they sought to remedy were of the most aggravated kind.
The cause, in a great measure, of this want of success,
has been exhibited by our experience here. Against
resident journeymen, we have had but few cases of com-
plaint; but we have been seriously annoyed by unprinci-
pled persons from a distance; and we fear that a consid-
erable part of the floating mass of journeymen printers is
composed of such characters. They conduct themselves
well, only where and while it may be for their immedi-
ate interest; and appear to scent a "turn out," as vul-
tures do a carrion. To banish from the craft, or render
harmless, such as are not governed by a high sense of
honor and regard for the rights of their fellow-work-
men, all have felt to be an essential point; but there has
as yet been a want of system and energy in the means
used to effect it. Each society has felt satisfied in ban-
ishing them from their own city, without reflecting on
the injury they may do by driving them, unpublished.
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 345
upon their neighbors; so the ejectment of them from
one place, has often prepared the way for a strife against
them in another. This should, and can be avoided.
There has always been a reciprocity of feeling between
the different societies: let us endeavor to wake it into
an active principle. Let us seek for a constant and reg-
ular communication with our sister societies, that we
may give and receive advice of unworthy persons of
the craft, and pursue the same rigid rules of exclusion
towards the enemies of other societies, that we do to-
wards those who oppose us. And let the certificate of
membership in a typographical society, be no longer
looked upon as a mere evidence of regular standing";
but let it call forth our active friendship for the bear-
er- our zealous eflforts to get him into employment, in
preference to those who have no such claim upon us.
We propose no new measure here. We only seek to
put in effective operation, rules by which all our soci-
eties profess to be governed; but which, hitherto, has
been little else than profession. The power that unity
and zeal in action will give to each society, is as much
superior to that which they now possess, as the combined
power of the states of our political union is to that of
a single one. We may defy opposition. Will any one
say, that circumstances do not require the creation of
this power? We would direct the attention of such to
Boston, where innovation has succeeded innovation up-
on the rights of the journeymen -to Philadelphia, where
the journeymen have been long ground down to the
dust; and where every attempt to raise themselves, has
only eventuated in calling down fresh marks of oppres-
sion. We believe the signs of the times imperatively
call upon us to arouse to action; or the name of a print-
er, which we have been proud to find as second to none
346 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
among artisans, in point of respectability, will become
a term of reproach -a by-word of contempt.
There is one good effect which must naturally flow
from drawing closer the bonds of alliance between
typographical societies, which we would not omit to
mention. Societies must spring up in many places,
where, under present circumstances, they cannot be
sustained; for it is easy to see, that if a rigid, energetic,
and universal proscription of rats should become the
order of the day, and we in word and in deed co-operate
with each other, in all things, it will be as practicable to
establish societies in inferior places, as in our largest
cities. And we would hail with pleasure, as the open-
ing prospect of a bright day to our profession, the es-
tablishment of a chain of societies from one extreme
of the Union to the other, governed by such regula-
tions, and marked by such spirit and firmness in ac-
tion, that the unprincipled may no where find a foot-
hold, and the scurvy principle of ratting be for ever
extinguished.
(b) THE CONVENTION OF 1836
Proceedings of the National Typographical Convention, Washington,
1836.
Extracts from the Proceedings of the convention, as published in pam-
phlet form in 1836. The Constitution, the "Address to Local
Societies," and the "Address to Printers throughout the United
States," are reproduced in United States Bureau of Labor Bulletin
no. 61, 974-981.
Monday, November 7, 1836. The Delegates from
different Typographical Societies of the United States
convened at the City Hall, Aldermen's Chamber, and
proceeded to organize themselves into a body, by call-
ing Mr. Charles A. Davis, of New York, to the Chair,
and appointing Mr. Wm. W. Curran, of Washington,
to act as Secretary. . .
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 347
The Committee appointed to examine the credentials
of the Delegates from the respective Typographical
Associations, beg leave to report: that they have per-
formed that duty, and have no hesitation in pronouncing
them genuine; that the Convention should, therefore,
accredit the following gentlemen, as duly authorized
to represent the respective societies to which they are
attached :
From Baltimore -Messrs. John F. Cook, George
Johnston, and William Holliday; from New York-
Messrs. Charles A. Davis, John L. Brown, and A. H.
Krauth; from Harrisburgh- Messrs. Wm. Sharpless,
Ezra Grossman; from Philadelphia- Mr. Martin H.
Andrews; from Washington -Messrs. John Stockwell,
James Clephane, and Wm. W. Curran.
(Several apologetic letters were received from other
Societies for not sending Delegates; but highly approv-
ing of the Convention, and expressive of their desire to
be governed by its decisions.)
On motion of Mr. Curran, the Convention then pro-
ceeded to the election of its officers. Mr. William Hol-
liday, of Baltimore, was unanimously elected President;
Mr. John L. Brown, of New York, Vice President; and
Mr. Wm. W. Curran, of Washington, Secretary.
On motion of Mr. Clephane, resolved, that a com-
mittee of three be appointed to wait upon Mr. Force,
Mayor of this city, (a member of the Columbia Typo-
graphical Society,) to tender to him the good wishes of
the Convention, and to invite him to honor it with his
presence. In compliance with the above resolution,
Messrs. Clephane, Davis, and Sharpless, were appoint-
ed said committee.
Mr. Force was announced by the committee, and wel-
comed in an ardent manner by an address from the
348 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
President, and by the congratulations of the members of
the Convention individually. Mr. Force, in an appro-
priate manner, thanked the Convention for the courtesy
extended towards him; and expressed his sincere wishes
for the success of the efforts of the Convention in pro-
moting the best interests of the profession which it rep-
resented. . .
A communication from the New Orleans Typograph-
ical Association, appointing Messrs. A. F. Cunningham
and Charles F. Lowrey delegates to represent said As-
sociation in the National Convention, was received and
read. . .
Mr. Curran submitted the following resolution: re-
solved, that a committee of three be appointed to re-
port to the Convention some regulations for the govern-
ment of apprentices throughout the United States.
The resolution was read and adopted; and Messrs.
Clephane, Brown, and Johnston, were appointed said
committee.
Mr. Curran submitted the following resolution: re-
solved that a committee of three be appointed to report
to the Convention a plan for a Chapel for the govern-
ment of offices under the jurisdiction of subordinate
societies. The resolution was read and adopted; and
Messrs. Stockwell, Krauth, and Lowrey, were appoint-
ed said committee. . .
The following communication was received from Mr.
Grossman, one of the delegates from Harrisburgh:
To the President of the Nat. Typ. Convention.
Sir: I do hereby appoint Mr. James F. Haliday as one of the
delegates to represent the Harrisburgh Typographical Society in this
Convention, as I have been authorized to do so in the name of the
society. Ezra Grossman, Delegate.
. . . Mr. Clephane, from the Committee on Ap-
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 349
prentices, made a report, which was read; and on mo-
tion of Mr. James F. Haliday, the report was referred
to the Committee on the Constitution.
. . . Mr. Stockwell, from the Committee on
Chapels, made the following report; which was read,
and the committee discharged from the further consid-
eration of the subject:
The Committee to whom was referred the subject of
establishing Chapels in the several printing offices in
the United States, beg leave to report: that as Chapels
are instituted for the adjustment of matters of minor
import, they are of the opinion that the ends intended
to be gained by their establishment would be more sat-
isfactorily attained by referring them directly to the
society or association existing where the difficulty may
arise. Your committee think that this course would
have a tendency to prevent disputation on trivial mat-
ters, and would cause men to be more cautious in origin-
ating difficulties when they are to be referred to their
respective associations or societies. With these views,
your committee would suggest that no action should be
had on this subject, and ask to be discharged from its
further consideration. . .
Mr. James F. Haliday, from the committee to which
was referred the subject of a card of the National Soci-
ety, made a report, which was read, and ordered, that
it be incorporated as an article in the constitution.
Mr. Stockwell submitted the following resolution,
which was read and adopted: resolved, that it be rec-
ommended to the several local societies of the United
States to inquire into, and report to the National Typo-
graphical Society, the number of newspapers and peri-
odical publications, together with all offices of whatever
character, under the immediate control of practical
350 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
printers, at the time of making such reports; also, those
under the control of others than printers, and such other
information as may be in possession of said local soci-
eties, in reference to the profession generally.
On motion of Mr. Stockwell, the Convention ad-
journed until 3 o'clock, p.m. . .
On motion of Mr. Curran, resolved, that any subor-
dinate society numbering less than twenty members, un-
able to pay the expenses of a delegate from their body
to attend the first meeting of the National Society, shall
be authorized to appoint a proxy from the contributing
members of the nearest society in the district of country
where the National Society shall meet, fully instructed
to act for them.
On motion of Mr. Johnston, resolved further, that it
be the duty of the local societies to acquaint the Cor-
responding Secretary of this Convention with the result
of their deliberations upon the ratification of the con-
stitution, as early as convenient. . .
On motion of Mr. Krauth, resolved, that Mr. James
Clephane, delegate from Washington; Mr. James F.
Haliday, from Harrisburgh; and Mr. A. F. Cunning-
ham, from New Orleans ; be a committee to revise the
Address to the Printers of the United States; and, in
conjunction with the Secretary, superintend the publi-
cation and issuing of the same to all the societies in the
United States.
On motion of Mr. Johnston, resolved, that 2,000 cop-
ies of the Proceedings of this Convention, together with
the Address, be printed in pamphlet form, and forward-
ed to the different societies throughout the United
States; and that the Committee on Publication be au-
thorized to have such portion published in the differ-
ent newspapers of this city, as they may deem proper:
and that editors throughout the United States, friendly
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 351
to the objects contemplated, be requested to publish
such portions in their respective papers.
On motion of James H. Haliday, resolved, that the
Committee on Publication be authorized to address a
letter to all the associations in the United States which
have favored the project of forming a National Society,
requesting them to forward their portion of the neces-
sary funds to defray the expenses of publication, &c. . .
(c) CALL FOR THE 1837 CONVENTION
Public Ledger, July 21, 1837, p. 2, col. 5.
National Typographical Society. To journey-
men Printers throughout the U. States. Notice is
hereby given, that the Delegates composing the above
Institution, will hold their first meeting in the city of
New York, on the first Monday of September next,
(1837).
From information already received from various
parts of the country, the undersigned cannot but ex-
press his great gratification at the cheering prospects
afforded, of the Profession being generally represented.
Our brethren are alive to the subject in New Orleans,
Mobile, Natchez, Nashville, Lexington (Ky.), Jack-
son (Missouri), Washington, D.C., Harrisburg, Pa.,
Cincinnati, Ohio, Richmond, Va., Baltimore, Philadel-
phia, and New York, from all which places delegates
will be present, and no doubt from many others, of
which, as yet, no advices have come to hand.
It is earnestly hoped that a matter of so much import-
ance to the Craft, will not be neglected in any city, town
or village of the land, but that the east, the west, the
north and the south will cordially join in the praise-
worthy effort to bind together the interests and feelings,
and elevate the character and standing of the profession.
Charles A. Davis, Cor. Sec'ry.
352 AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY [Vol.
N.B. The several Societies of Printers throughout the
country, as well as the different Chapels or individuals
where no Societies are formed, are respectfully request-
ed to give the above as much publicity as possible.
(d) THE CONVENTION OF 1837
Public Ledger, Sept. 9, 1837, p. 2, col. 5.
The proceedings of this convention have not been found, but the fol-
lowing account was issued by a committee "appointed to request
the editors of the Public Ledger to publish the proceedings of the
National Typographical Convention."
New York, Sept. 7th, 1837.
Gentlemen: The delegates composing the National
Typographical Convention assembled at the City Hall
in this city on Monday last, at 12 o'clock, and organized
themselves by appointing Mr. James Clephane, from
Washington city, Chairman; Mr. E. Winchester, from
Mobile, Assistant Chairman; Mr. James B. Beers, from
Philadelphia, Secretary; and Mr. Wm. Sharpless, from
Harrisburg, Assistant Secretary; after which a Commit-
tee was appointed to examine the credentials of dele-
gates, who reported delegates from the following cities
as entitled to seats in the Convention, viz.- Washington
city, D.C.; Baltimore, Md.; Harrisburg, Pa.; Phila-
delphia, Pa.; New York city; Pittsburgh, Pa.; Cincin-
nati, Ohio; New Orleans, La.; and Mobile, Ala. In
addition to which, letters were received from various
sections of the country, approving of the objects of the
Convention.
Great harmony has prevailed throughout the session.
Even upon those points where the sentiments of mem-
bers were most diversified, a spirit of mutual concession
seemed to animate all; and the measures adopted will
be presented to the profession as the unanimous voice
of delegates assembled from portions of the country
some thousands of miles apart.
six] NATIONAL TRADE UNIONS 353
In conclusion we will say, that there is undoubtedly
a cheering prospect of Reform in the Typographical
community; and from the information elicited in the
way of debate, and enthusiastic determination is every
where manifest to establish a steadfast union of interest
and fellowship among the craft in the United States.
It is hoped, gentlemen, that as members of the New
York Typographical Association, you will, through
your widely circulated paper, give such countenance
and support to the institution of the National Typo-
graphical Convention as in your judgment may seem
best calculated to promote its welfare.
The following named gentlemen were duly elected
officers of the National Typographical Convention for
one year: President^ Mr. A. J. W. Jackson, Baltimore;
V. President^ Wm. P. Stratton, Cincinnati; Rec. Sec-
retary, Wm. Wellington, Philad. ; Cor. Secretary,
Charles A. Davis, N. York; Treasurer, Jas. Clephane,
Washington City. Very respectfully, yours,
James B. Beers, Charles A. Davis, A. V. Stephens.
Committee appointed to request the editors of the
Public Ledger to publish the proceedings of the Na-
tional Typographical Convention.
THE TORCH PRESS
CEDAR RAPIDS
IOWA
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