Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2016 https://archive.org/details/historyofunitedm21evan HISTORY \\ of UNITED MINE WORKERS of AMERICA from the year 1890 TO 1900 with illustrations of officers during that period BY Chris Evans Volume II. TO THE OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARDS THE RANK AND FILE OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED 4281C6 UNITED MINE WORKERS of AMERICA CONTENTS Pages Chapter I Indiana Contontion January 14, and Ohio State Cona'ention January 20, 1890 3-4 Reformation Is the Watchword 5-12 National Progressive Union and National Trades Assembly' 135 Knights of Labor Meet Jointly' 13-16 Amalgamation Is Successful 17 Joint Preamble and Constitutions 18-23 First National Executive Board 24-25 Closing Hours of Joint Convention 26-32 Indiana Convention February 25, and Illinois Convention March 4, 1890 33 Chapter II Pittsburg CoNnsNiTON March K, and Ohio ^Miners’ Joint Con- vention, April 14, 1890 34-39 Chapter III West Virginia Miners’^ Convention, Eight-Hour Question Consid- ered and Watchorn Tenders Resignation 40-42 Ohio Convention, January 20, 1891 43-58 One-Year-Old United Mine Workers in Conv'ention 59-89 Amended Constitutton in Part, and Adjou'rnyient 90-92 First Annual Convention, District 11, March 3, 1891 93 Chapter IV Coke Workers’ Struggle. An Appe.yl to American Woricmen 94-95 Miners’ National Cony'ention at Pittsburg, April 6, 1891 96-101 Joint Coni’erence with Operators ! 102-108 District 17 Convention, April 14-15, 1891 109-116 Chapter V District 12 Convention, April 23, 1891 117-119 Passage of Illinois Weekly Pay Law 120-121 Reasons Given for Deferring Miners’ Movement for Eight Hours 122-126 Chapter VI District 6 Special Convention, April 30, 1891 127-130 Pittsburg Miners’ Special Convention, April and :u.\y', 1891 131-136 Iowa and Cokeworicers’ Strikes, and Illinois Screen Law 137-140 National Executive Board on Use of Defense Fund 141-142 Iowa Convention at Oskaloosa, July', 1891 143-144 Joint Agreements at Rendville and Jackson County, Ohio, with President Costello’s Strike Explanation. Pittsburg Dist 145-148 William Houston’s Death, November 19, 1891, and District 12 CoNVE-NTiON, January, 1892 149-156 Chapter VII District 6 Convention, Janu.vry' 19, 1892 157-176 Chapter VIII Second National Conirntion, Unites Mlne Workers of America. 1892 1 .177-190 Conventions, Districts 5 and 11, Ohio Joint Agreement, and Con- vention OF District 17, April, 1892 191-195 viii Pages Chapter IX Special Convei^tions, Districts 11 aa’d 12 196-202 Ia’^diana Block Coal Joint ^Meeting and Tennessee Joint Scale 203-204 Chapter X Pittsburg District Cjnvention, \A'. S. Scott’s Address, Officers OF District 12, Manifesto, and Hocking Valley Day Wage Scale, 1892 205-214 Checkweighman Laws, Hocking Valley Joint Conference on Entry Prices, Day* Wages, Etc., Coioients on First Issue of United Mine Workers -Journal 215-221 Chapter XI Sub-District 1 of District 6 Eeorganized, Officers Elected and Machine Miners’ Convention Proceedings 222-230 Convention Proceedings and Constitution of District 23, for 1892 231-233 Chapter XII Hocking Valley Determined to Have One Sub-District. Constitu- tion Adopted 234-238 Suaimary of Hocking Valley .Joint Agreements 239-243 President McBride on the Ohio Membership, and Fourth Annual Convention United Mine Workers of America 244-267 Chapter XIII District 12 Convention, April, 1893 268-272 Indiana Miners’ and Operators’ Joint Contr.act and Special Con- iHiNTioN, District 11, May 7, 1893 273-276 Jellico, Tennessee, Scale, 1893, Joint Conference of Ohio Miners AND Oper.vtors 277-289 Chapter XIV An Effort Made to Form One Machine Mining District for Ohio, AND Sixty-Day Notes as Payment for Wages Due 290-300 Second Audit, District 6, 1893 301 Chapter XV Special Con\'ention, .January 9, 1894 302-308 Ohio Miners’ Convention, February, 1894, Ohio Miners’ and Operators’ Wage Scales Presented 309-312 Special Conventions, District 11, Febriu\ry and March, 1894 313-316 Chapter XVI Fifth Annu.al National Convention, April 10, 1894, with Pre.si- DENT McBride’s Admonition and Proceedings Continued 317-332 Constitution of District 5 for 1894 333-334 National Convention at Cleveland, Ohio, May 14, 1894 33.5-356 Chapter XVII Sixth Annual National Convention, 1895 357-372 CONITINTION OF SUB-DlSTRICT 1 OF DISTRICT 6, IMaRCH, 1895, AND lOWA .Joint Conference 373-377 Chapter XVIII Sixth Annual Ohio Convention, April 2, 1895 378-388 .Joint Conferences, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana 389-391 Convention District 25, Keystone, West Virginia, .June 14, 1895, Pratt, Alabama, Wage Scale of Prices, 1892-1895, and Lama- Eatchford Agreement .392-394 ix 4S81C6 Pages CHArXER XIX Anthracite Constitution, District 1, 1895 395-399 Pittsburg Joint Conference, December, 1895 400—407 Chapter XX Seventh National Annual Convention, April, 1896 408^23 District 11, Seventh Annual Proceedings, April. 1896 124-434 Chapter XXI Eighth Annual National Convention, 1897, and Speci.al Con\'en- TiON, District 12, 1897 435-457 Chapter XXII District 11, Eighth Annual Convention, April, 1897 458-463 Chapter XXIII Governor Atkinson and West Virginia In.junctions, August, 1897, Copied from Originals 464-468 Special National Convention, September, 1897 469—480 Indiana Special Convention. Sepiember, 1897 481—484 Illinois and West Virgini.a Local Joint Agreements, and Pitts- burg Scale, 1892-1897 48-5-488 Chapter XXIV Joint Report District 2. Proposed Scale of Prices for Fairmont. AND Other West Virginia Controversies and .Joint Agree- ments 489^91 Valuable Aid GmiN by National Offici.vls of Other Trades in West Virginia During Striice of 1897 492—494 Sub-District Conventions, 1 and 2, of District 6 495-496 Joint Conference Stepping Stone, Deceaiber, 1897 497-498 Ohio Sub-District 5 Scale and Pittsburg Coni-ention, December, 1897 ^499-508 Chapter XX\" Ninth Annual Convention, District 6. -January, 1898 509-518 Ninth National Annual Convention, J.vntj.vry 11, 1898 519-545 Chapter XXVI Chicago Joint Conference that Adopted the Eight-Hour Work- day, 1898 - 546-552 Constitution District 5, Adopted March, 1898 553-555 Altoona Convention, District 2, 1898 556-558 Comparative Wage Scale for Pittsburg District, 1897 and 1900 559-560 Massillon, Ohio, Scale, and District 5 Sc.ale for 1898 561-562 Joint Agreement District 23, for 1898 563-568 Special Convention District 5, May, 1898 569-570 Wm. Scaife’s Reai.arks on Governor T.vnner of Illinois 571 Chapter XXVII Pittsburg Joint Conference, Operators and Miners, May, 1898 572-574 Special Convention and Joint Conference, District 12, ^Iay. 1898-575-580 Indiana Block Coai. and Sub-District 2 of District 5, Proceed- ings 581-585 Alabama Miners Convention .vnd .Joint Agreejient 586-592 West Virginia Co^vl a Disturbing Factor; Wage Sc.vle for Dis- trict 2, AND Special Contention District 5. .\leust, 1898 593-598 X Pages Chapter XXVIII Joint Agreejient foe Mines on the Chicago & Alton R.ailroad, Illinois, August, 1 80S : 509-602 CoN\’ENTiON, Fort Smith, Arkansas, October, ISOS 603-605 Killing and Maiming of Miners at A’irden, Illinois, and the Battle Scene 606-607 Mitchell’s Virden Riot Telegrams, October 13, ISOS 608 Governor Tanner’s Portrait 600 The Lattimer, Pennsylvania, Massacre 610 John Kane Monument, 189S 611 Report of Convict Mine in Tennessee, October, ISOS 612-613 0‘Gara & King, Illinois Joint Agreejient, Xovejiber, ISOS, and Scale Prices Before Chicago Joint Agreement, ISOS 614-615 Chapter XXIX Convention of Sub-District 6, Ohio, December, ISOS 616-617 Tenth Annuai, Convention District 6, January 5, 1S!)0 61S-625 Tenth National Annual Convention, January 9, ISOO 626-662 Chapter XXX Pittsburg Interstate Joint Conference, January 17, 1890_ 663-670 Tenth Annual Convention District 12, February, ISOO 671-682 Iowa and District 12 Joint Agreements, jMarch, ISOO 683-685 Chapter XXXI Second Annual Convention District 19 and Convention of Sub- District 2, District 6, March, ISOO 6S6-680 Ohio Operators Sign Pittsburg Scale, March 16, ISOO; District 11 Tenth Annual Convention and Sub-District 1, District 12, Joint Agreement, March, 1809 600-704 Chapter XXXII Tyrone Convention, District 2, March, ISOO 705-707 Organized and Unorganized Miners’ Convention at I’it'isburg, March 28, 1890 708-716 Indiana and Beaver Valley, Pennsylvania, Joint Agreements 717-722 Eight-Hour Celebration and Tennessee Joint Convention 723-728 Chapter XXXIII Pittsburg Adjourned Convention, July, ISOO, and Joint Agree- ment, District 2, Pennsylvania 729-732 Montgomery, West Virginia, and Iowa Annu^vl Conventions 733-738 D. H. Sullivan and the Screen Law. Eesolutions of Respect on Resignation of Vice-President T. W. Davis and Admonitions OF T. L. Lewis 730-741 Joint Agreement at Witt, Illinois, and Xational Auditors’ Re- port, October, ISOO 742-746 Convention of District 2, Xovember, 1809, and Anthracite Wage Agreement, December, 1890 747-753 Second Annual Convention District 20, December 11, 1890 754-755 Myersdale and Maryland Convention 756-750 Chapter XXXIV Convention of District 2, December 12, 1809, and an Illustrated Lecture by H. W. Smith of Veterans of Old 760-763 Chapter XXXV Joint Wage Scale Agreements for 1S9I-I809 Inclusiit; 1764-829 XI PREFACE H aving been introduced to the readers of Volume I it is our purpose now to extend further knowledge of the work done and advances made by the United Mine Workers of America from January 1890 to the year 1900. The favorable comments published on the first volume are stimulating and give prestige for further effort to maintain the standard established. During the period named many changes have taken place, but the nature of those changes can be better understood by relating incidents that have transpired and actual perform- ances entered into. The second volume contains the proceedings of the con- vention held at Columbus, Ohio, in January, 1890, that organ- ized the factions that were former members of the two na- tional unions of mine workers in the United States. In the illustrations presented the faces of many early pioneers of the United Mine Workers of America will be observed. The reader will also find that active participants have written their own biographies in deeds of valor that make further comment unnecessary, because the actions of each, during incumbency, portray with clearness the true char- acter of the good work accomplished. Somewhat like the ending of the fiction story, the marriage ceremony brought about changes that proved beneficial. A reform much needed to remove some of the evils that usually follow all semi-barbarous actions, no matter whether the in- centive comes from the beast in the field, the bird in the air, or is the product of humankind. Early in January, 1890, there was a general movement on the part of mine- workers to use the power of organ- ized effort in a way that would bring about better re- turns. Officers and members alike began to realize the folly of the course they had pursued for several years past. The ( 1 ) fighting spirit, so ruthlessly used, was telling in no uncertain terms, that unless they showed more respect for themselves, the mine-workers would soon learn the fate to which they had so willingly subscribed. The contest for supremacy, alone, began to show up the recipients that were enjoying the fruits in chunks of no small magnitude. The organizing of two national unions for one trade had created a bitterness of feeling in all mining centers, such as was never known. Peace and good will for each other had lost all its efficacy, and a feeling next akin to hatred was made manifest in all places where the members of one organization came in contact with the other. Family feuds were often found amongst the most active workers, because of the cher- ished love each one held dear for the organization of his choice. There came a time, however, when stern realities pre- dominated over all with a grip of unshaken assurance that the name organization, when divided into fragments, is a mis- nomer and proves ineffectual, because the name itself is mis-applied, and cannot possibly give the desired relief. With this unnatural condition of affairs governing the mining craft in the United States, the bugle call for alairni was sounded ; the stern rebuke for man’s inhumanity to him- self applied, and the edict sent forth to let the dawn of light shine on all thoughtful minds found ready for reform. Chris. Evans. ( 2 ) CHAPTER I. A HISTORY OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. The renovation work to centralize the forces began with Indiana miners taking the lead in an exemplary effort to bring about the much needed change. INDIANA MINERS’ STATE CONVENTION. The Annual Convention, of District No. 11, of the National Progressive Union of Indiana, was held in the G. A. R. hall, Terre Haute, Indiana, January 14, 1890. The convention was called to order by President P. H. Penna who, after stating the objects of the convention, and the appointment of a committee on credentials, the committee reported the following delegates entitled to seats in the conven- tion : G. W. Lackey, M. Comesky, C. Badders, Frank Wheat, William Small, M. Maher, R. R. Sanford, Allen Raines, J. H. Watts, James G. Strachan, John Kane, T. F. Bolser, John Mooney, W. Small. Resolutions were adopted “On the dissolution of both organizations to work for the interest of our craft. That all machine mined coal shall not be based at a lower rate than ten cents per ton below the pick mined coal, and that the scale for machine mined coal shall be governed by the scale for pick- mined coal. That where it became necessary, in bituminous coal, for an operator to promote his interests, to change from the mode of paying the miners for screened coal to that of pay- ing for unscreened coal, the price per ton shall be 70 per cent of the price then being paid for screened coal.” Officers elected were as follows: John Kane, President; Joseph Dunkerly, Vice-President; Harvey St. John, Secretary- Treasurer. ( 3 ) 4 United Mine Workers of America Members of Executive Board: William Winterbottom, P. H. Penna, Frank Lockhart. P. H. Penna was elected by acclamation to be President Kane’s alternate to the Columbus Convention. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ANNUAL CONVENTION OF DISTRICT NO. 10, NATIONAL PROGRESSIVE UNION. Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 20, 1890. The convention was called to order by District President Chris Evans, who briefly stated the object of the meeting and appointed a committee on credentials. After a short recess had been taken, the committee appointed reported delegates entitled to seats in the convention as follows : Alexander Johnson, Ebenezer Lewis, John H. Taylor, Chris Evans, Wm. H. Bassett, Fred Reisenger, Samuel Llewellyn, John White, John Wilhelm, Michael Collins, Jeff Thornton, E. H. Lambers, Ed. Dawson, John Phillipson, J. Humphrey, W. P. Anderson, John A. Peddicord, C. C. Cheney, John Thomas, Joseph Healey, John Glasgow, G. W. Schultz, John A. James, M. S. Wolford, Michael Ratchford, R. F. Warren, Ben- jamin Morgan, Cameron Miller, W. H. Turner, P. P. Andrews, James Sargent, Wm. Banfield, L. W. Hull, J. C. Dunfee, R. J. Jones, Frank Longstreth, James Pritchard, John Crowe, E. J. Cobb, John W. Jones, John P. Jones, Joseph D. Winkleman, Ralph Raffle, Lewis Vaughan, Fred Wend, John S. Davis, V. E. Sullivan. The report of the committee on credentials was by motion accepted, and District President Evans delivered the follow- ing address: ADDRESS OF PRESIDENT EVANS, OF DISTRICT NO. 10, OF THE NATIONAL PROGRESSRT: UNION OF MINERS AND MINE LABORERS, TO THE REPRESENTATI\T:S OF THE SECOND ANNUAL CONVENTION HELD AT COLUMBUS, OHIO, JANUARY 20, 1890. To the Representatives in Convention Assembled. Fellow Workmen: For the first time since the fomiation of District No. 10, of the National Progressive Union, you Reformation Is the Watchword 5 have assembled together as the representatives of the Ohio constituency, to legislate for their best interest, and to remove, as far as possible, the load they are compelled to carry under existing circumstances. The duties assigned you are of special interest to the craft, and we feel assured that the con- fidence reposed in you will be faithfully observed, and like the watch-dog of the treasury, we trust you will be ever mindful of the value that our trade union has been to us in Ohio during the last eight years. It is worthy of special care, and we hope it will not be allowed to lose any of its former prestige. In submitting my first annual report through you to our members, I desire to call your attention to a few questions that have forced themselves upon my mind as being worthy of your careful consideration. For several years past, the miners of Ohio have had the reputation of being better organized than those of any other state in the Union. While I believe it is true Ohio miners retain a leading place among the organized members of our craft, we should not be unmindful of the fact that the discordant element among us are continually putting in their work of destruction, and the evil consequences that follow are forcible reminders that demoralization is dangerous, and works great injury to all concerned. The means of removing the cause that is impeding our progress is one of the leading questions you have met to con- sider, and in the discussions that will follow, your attention will doubtless be called to a number of seeming obstacles that stand in the way. That our miners have suffered many privations through the conflicting power of too many organizations, no one can question, and the removal of that power is the question upon which the miners expect relief. The problem will come before you for solution, and it should be acted upon in such a manner as will leave no room for the miners to suspect that we are not sincere in our advo- cacy to relieve their wants. Pet schemes and hobby-riding should be placed far enough in the rear to prevent them from interfering in any way with the main questions at issue. The over-production of organizations that has played such a dis- gusting part in reducing the powers of practical organized effort in the past few years, should find no resting place among miners in the future. Every miner should go hand in hand with his fellow-worker, and take away the substance that gives life to the fell destroyer of your future happiness and comfort. Build up an organization of your own choice — one that will meet the wants of mine workers everywhere, and 6 United Mine Workers of America place the members of our trade upon a higher standard of life, equal to that which their calling entitles them to occupy. In treating upon this question of one organization for the miners, I feel anxious to do my whole duty to try to consummate the object we have in view, but in doing so, I want to see every miner and mine laborer placed on equal terms with his fellow- worker. Justice to all and special privileges to none, is my motto. If we are all as anxious to lend our aid in the removal of the barriers to success, as public and private expressions from members and officials of both miners’ organizations would lead us to believe, no method of organization that exists at present will stand in the way of building up another shorn of every vestige of power that has a tendency to prevent the formation of one grand organization for the miners of America, open as the noon-day sun, and as free to every mem- ber of the mining craft as the air we breathe. Strikes. Our inability to agree upon a scale of prices with the operators of this competitive coal field in the early part of last year, opened up the way for unscrupulous operators to take undue advantage in many places. While it is true, that we entered into an agreement with a majority of the duly elected representatives of the operators of Ohio on a scale of prices for the year ending May 1, 1890, it is also true that other arrangements were entered into with Hocking operators that contributed largely towards crippling any elforts on our part to enforce justice at the hands of un- •fair men. At the annual convention held in Columbus one year ago, several complaints were made of impositions practiced upon miners, and efforts were made to remedy the evils. In some cases we succeeded, while in other important ones we failed. The condition of trade was such as to prevent us from enter- ing into a contest with any prospect of success, hence many miners have had to suffer in consequence. There are a few cases in the state that require attention as soon as the oppor- tunity presents itself, and we hope the time is not far distant when justice will be enforced, and the unscrupulous employer made to feel that true unionism is surrounding him with a determination to command respect for all workmen under his employ. At our last annual meeting, a committee of seven mem- bers was elected to attend the joint meetings with the oper- ators, and the expense incurred for this purpose, alone, has reached several hundred dollars during the past year. While there is very little reason to believe, at present, that joint Reformation Is the Watchword 7 meetings with operators will be very frequent during the com- ing year, yet I feel it my duty to call your attention to this matter, and suggest that it be not repeated. Should meetings, of the same nature, be required in the future, three members are sufficient, according to my judgment, and the amount of money saved to the organization is a matter well worthy your consideration. The creation of a defense fund, to assist in the establish- ment of better prices during the coming year, is, I believe, one of the best provisions that can be made by the members for self-preservation. The best paid members of organizations that we have today are those that make provisions, in a finan- cial way, to meet any emergencies that arise when justice is required by the workers. I am heartily in favor of support- ing the proposition made to create a defense fund, and believe that many of the unjust propositions made by operators would never be heard of, if every miner and mine laborer had, at his command, a few dollars to draw upon when necessity required it. It is useless for us to contend against combined capital unless we are in a position to meet it on similar grounds. I would not hesitate to engage in a contest with miners against operators, that were dealing unfairly, had we a treasury of only three dollars per head to start upon ; but the experience of the bitter struggles that have lately been encoun- tered, by members of our craft, through a lack of the neces- sary provisions to keep the wolf from their door, is a warning that should be heeded in future years, and let us prepare for the change necessary to meet the issue. The question of a reduction in the hours of labor, to eight per day, is another important subject that you will have to grapple with, and no effort should be spared to bring about the reduction of hours proposed. A reduction in the hours of labor is a measure that almost all workingmen agree upon. Eight hours is certainly a very fair division of the time allotted daily for work, sleep and recreation. The first step then towards securing the miner his share of the blessings of civilization is to make a concerted move to reduce the hours of toil and increase the hours of recreation and rest. Some object to a reduction on the ground that they will have to work for less wages in proportion to the hours decreased. I cannot agree that the change will be injurious to the miner in any sense, but granting that some sacrifice would have to be made, I would willingly yield that point in order to introduce a system and establish a principle that will enable us to limit the power of production in accordance with the necessary demand. Employers are telling thousands of workers that their services are not wanted, with such a reali- 8 United Mine Workers of America zation before us, is it not time to prepare some means whereby we can offer some relief to them? And the additional thou- sands that are growing among us, will be forced by the sur- rounding circumstances to accept whatever terms may be pro- posed to them in order to sustain those depending upon them for support. Lessen the power of the operator to name the rate of wages by using the necessities of one against the other, and wages will increase as the power of production diminishes. Restriction of the daily output at our mines is another mode by which the supply can be regulated in accordance with the demand. Suspension, at stated intervals, is also one of the methods that will, in my judgment, give us relief. These questions, with many others, need to be thoroughly discussed by you, and no doubt will receive careful consideration at your hands. In closing my report, I desire to express my sincere and heartfelt thanks to the miners, in general, for the confidence and good will they have bestowed upon me, while serving in my official capacity as their servant. The mistakes I have made, during my service among you, have, at no time, been intentional on my part, and I trust that experience has taught us lessons that will be of much benefit to my successor in office. To my fellow officers that were elected with me to look after the affairs of the organization, I have nothing but words of praise and commendation for the kind assistance given in the performance of my official duties. Our relations with each other have been of the kindest nature, at all times, and while the duties I have been called upon to perform by our co- workers in the trades union movement in America, will, for a time, cause our personal visits to be less frequent, you can rest assured that my voice and pen will be always with you, no matter where I am, or what duties I may be called upon to per- form. Very respectfully submitted. Yours truly, Chris Evans, President. The address of President Evans was accepted and its con- tents duly considered. The report of the auditing committee commended highly the work of Secretary Ebenezer Lewis for the creditable man- ner in which he had discharged his official duties and reported a balance of $957.13 in the District treasury, December 31, 1889. John McBride, President of the National Progressive Union; Thomas W. Davis, Vice-President, and David Ross, of Reformation Is the Watchword 9 Illinois, explained at length to the District Convention, the terms and language used in the joint circular issued, and the proposed method by which the two National Unions intended to unite. With a love of battle for the right, the Ohio miners, under the leadership of John McBride since April, 1882, had learned the value of discipline in times of distress, but, to give up the organization that had been their aid and support under any and all circumstances,, was a test of loyalty hard to overcome. The day and hour had arrived, however, when necessity in its strongest form prompted them to act with discretion and valor, and they accepted the inevitable with the best grace possible, as follows: “Resolved, That we, the members of District No. 10, of the National Progressive Union, are hereby heartily in favor of the amalgamation of the miners of the United States of America. “That the future consideration of the remainder of the proposition of the joint circular be referred to the National Convention for future action.” District officers were elected as follows : President, John P. Jones; Vice President, Wm. H. Turner; Secretary-Treasurer, Ebenezer Lewis. Executive Board members : Charles Call, John A. Peddi- cord, John D. Winkleman, Michael Collins. A vote of thanks was tendered to the retiring officers, the re-indorsement of the National Labor Tribune as the official organ, and the Convention adjourned. Chris Evans, President. Ebenezer Lewis, Secretary-Treasurer. In response to a call issued by John McBride, President of the National Progressive Union, a convention was held at Columbus, Ohio, January 22, 1890, at 10 :30 a. m. After call- ing the convention to order, the President appointed a commit- tee on credentials, and on their report being made, ninety-one delegates were declared to be entitled to seats in the conven- tion. In his address to the delegates, at the afternoon session. President McBride took strong grounds in his advocacy favor- 10 United Mine Workers of America ing one organization for the mine workers, urging upon the officers and members of the National Progressive Union the necessity of putting into practice the plan proposed by the joint circular issued, to have one set of officers to rule and govern the divided forces. The effort made to bring this about, one year ago, having failed, he was still willing to make a second venture for and in the interest of the much-needed change. He made an earnest plea for the adoption of the eight-hour day, and an increase in the wages being paid. When the National Progressive Union was organized, the constitution provided for two secre- taries. Believing that there was only one necessary, he advised, that when the election was held, the name, or names, should be changed to that of secretary-treasurer. He gave sound reasons for the necessity of a closer unity of action in mining affairs, and pointed out the weakness shown during the past few years, because of the division of strength that had been so relentlessly spent against the best interest of the members of both National Unions. Honorable N. R. Hysell, Speaker of the Ohio House of Rep- resentatives, and Honorable Samuel Llewellyn, another mem- ber of the Ohio legislature, both former officers of the Na- tional Progressive Union, made some very interesting and appropriate remarks on the future prospects of the miners in their solidified form, expressing freely their desires and antici- pation of the advantage that would be gained for the mine- workers, as a whole, in the adoption of the plan proposed. The report of Financial Secretary Patrick McBryde gave an interestiiig resume of the work done, in which he spoke of the wavering of membership, going backward and fonvard during the year, because of the dissatisfaction among the members of both organizations, and the transition from one union to the other. His report stated that at one time there were 3,000 members, and at another time 15,000 members had been enrolled ; that by the end of the month, the organization will have attained a greater membership than at any time since its institution. David Ross, of the auditing committee, reported that they had examined the books of the Secretary-Treasurer, and found Reformation Is the Watchword 11 them correct, with receipts for the year amounting to $9,093.94 ; expenses $8,955.06 ; with a balance in the treasury of $138.88. After some discussion on the question of machine mining, a committee consisting of William Clark of Indiana, Joseph Harrison of Illinois, T. W. Davis of Pennsylvania, and William Barclay of Ohio was appointed to consider the matter and report a plan of action to the convention. Earnest consideration of the convention was given to the question of consolidation, after which the committee appointed reported as follows: . Whereas, The competitive district convention, at its session in Indianapolis last month, declared in favor of one organiza- tion, one defense fund, one set of officers and equal taxation; therefore, be it Resolved, That we favor a dissolution of both organiza- tions to the extent that the objects therein specified may be accomplished. The report was adopted unanimously. Committee : David Ross, P. H. Penna, A. M. Ferrell, W. H. Turner, James Cole, William Warburton. A committee was appointed to meet a similar committee from National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, to arrange the order of business for the joint convention, as fol- lows: John McBride, John Kane, Ebenezer Howells. Telegrams were received from President Gompers, of the American Federation of Labor, and Secretary Martin, of the Iron and Steel Workers’ Association, congratulating the Pro- gressive Union upon the prospects of the amalgamation. John Kane was appointed Assistant Secretary, and the convention adjourned. John McBride, President. Patrick McBryde, Secretary. National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, held their convention in the City Hall, January 22, 1890. The com- mittee on credentials appointed reported 109 delegates entitled 12 United Mine Workers of America to seats in the convention, a large portion of which were said to come from the coke regions of Pennsylvania. The mem- bership of the National Union was not stated. The business of the convention being secret in character, sometimes prevented the outside world from knowing what was going on. It was learned, however, that in the discussion of the question of consolidation, there was found an opposing force, and for this reason the National officials felt called upon to take a firm stand in favor of the plan agreed to. After due deliberation, however, the speeches of Master Workman Rae, and Secretary Watchorn, proved effective, and the following resolution was adopted : “Resolved, That we approve the action of the national officers and approve the plan of amalgamation laid down bj^ them.” Master Workman Rae, Secretary Watchorn and Daniel Lennon were appointed to meet the committee from the Na- tional Progressive Union, to make further arrangements for the joint convention. A letter from Grand Master Workman Powderly said in part: I see by the papers and am reliably informed by your officers that something grand is promised for the 23d, and, by the way, as that happens on my birthday, I hope it will be cele- brated by something being done for the permanent good of the miners of America. At the joint committee meeting held at the Grand Central hotel Wednesday evening. John IMcBride was chosen chair- man, and Robert Watchorn secretary. The joint committee consisted of John McBride, John Kane and Ebenezer Howells for the National Progressive Union, and John B. Rae, Robert Watchorn, and Daniel Lennon for National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor. It was agreed, 1st, That the Joint Convention should be called to order by John B. Rae, and officers elected. 2d, That the Joint Agreement drafted should be read to the Conven- tion. 3d, That the discussion on consolidation be opened by John McBride, followed by John B. Rae, the time be limited to twenty minutes each, and in the general discussion each Two National Unions Meet Jointly 13 speaker to have ten minutes time. No delegate to speak more than twice until all others desiring to do so have been heard. 4th, That no resolution be adopted unless it receives a three- fourths majority vote of each organization, the vote to be taken by calling the “Yeas” and “Nays,” the roll to be called by the respective secretaries of both organizations. 5th, That after the result of each vote is announced, any delegate may change his vote, or a second ballot may be ordered. 6th, That representatives of the press be admitted to the Joint Proceed- ings. THURSDAY MORNING, JANUARY 23, 1890. The Joint Convention of National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, and the National Progressive Union was called to order at the City Hall, at 9 :45 a. m., by John B. Rae, and officers were elected as follows: John B. Rae, chairman; John McBride, vice-chairman; Patrick McBryde, secretary, and Robert Watchorn, assistant secretary. “The Plan of Amalgamation,” proposed by the officers of the two organizations, was then read, as follows : 1. To unite the two organizations under one head, to gov- ern and protect the interest of the miners and mine laborers. This union to be effected without sacrificing the essential features of either organization. 2. The organization to be divided into national, district and local divisions, the meetings of which are to be either secret or open, as the members may determine or the exigen- cies of the case may require; that is to say, the meaning of the terms “open or secret” shall be construed as applying to the meetings of the National Progressive Union or National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor. 3. Equal taxation upon affiliated members. 4. One staff of officers for the National and each district and local organization, in which due provision shall be made for visiting and directing the business of both branches of the organization. John McBride, President of the National Progressive Union, as per arrangement, made an address in which he advocated, in strong terms, the necessity of sinking all differ- 14 United Mine Workers of America ences and consolidating at all hazards. Master Workman, John B. Rae, of National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, followed and indorsed the remarks made by McBride. The general discussion that followed was animated, full of spirit almost reaching the point of disagreement by members of both organizations when it was moved to adjourn. On re-assembling at 3:30 p. m., a substitute offered by John H. Taylor, of the Hocking Valley, at the morning ses- sion, to adopt the resolution agreed to at the convention of the National Progressive Union was withdrawn, after an explana- tion from President John McBride. On further remarks being made by Master Workman John B. Rae, of National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, that the members of 135 would be governed by the con- stitution of the new organization, a resolution presented by John Nugent, of National District Assembly 135, indorsing the plan proposed by the officers of the two National organiza- tions, was considered, and after a vote being taken, section by section, on its adoption. National District Assembly 135 cast 103 votes in favor of it, and the National Progressive Lffiion delegates cast 81 votes for and 10 against the plan proposed. T. W. Davis, Vice President of the National Progressive Union, voted against the plan because he wanted one organiza- tion formed by the dissolution of both. On this point several other delegates agreed. When the vote was announced, there was a burst of enthusiasm that indicated practically a unani- mous sentiment for the conclusions reached. Thomas Benson and V. Morgan, of Shawnee, Ohio, and Joseph Welch, of the coke regions of Pennsylvania, voted against the plan because they were instructed to do so. They expressed themselves, however, in favor of consolidating the forces. There were nine delegates from Westeim Pennsylva- nia, representing unorganized men; all finally voted for the plan. At the suggestion of John McBride, committees on rules and constitution were appointed, consisting of five membei's from each organization, including the President and Secretaiy of both organizations, to report a Constitution not later than 3 p. m. Friday, Two National Unions Meet Jointly 15 Committee on Constitution: John B. Rae, Robt. Watchorn, James White, of Pennsylvania, Robert Linn, Kansas, L. M. Beatty, Ohio, for National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, and David Ross, Illinois, John Kane, Indiana, John McBride, Patrick McBryde and John H. Taylor, Ohio, for the National Progressive Union. Committee on Order of Business. W. B. Wilson, Pennsylvania, James O’Donnell, Ohio, John Kennedy, Indiana, for National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, and P. H. Penna, Indiana, M. F. Moran, West Virginia, William Scaife, Illinois, for the National Pro- gressive Union. Committee on Machine Mining. Benjamin Boden, Ohio, J. Roberts, Indiana, D. Thomas, Illinois, for National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, and David Barclay, Ohio, William Clark, Indiana, and James Harrison of Illinois, for the National Progressive Union. W. B. Wilson of Pennsylvania, in an interesting address on the strike situation at Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, made an earnest appeal for aid for the destitute families there, that had been turned out of their houses by the coal company in mid-winter. The delegates contributed one hundred dollars for the relief of the evicted miners. Honorable Andrew Roy, former state inspector of mines for Ohio, spoke encouragingly on the aims and objects of the department of mining engineering at Ohio State University, and urged the delegates to agitate and establish such schools in all mining states. The Convention then adjourned. FRIDAY MORNING SESSION, JANUARY 24, 1890. The Joint Convention was called to order at 9 a. m. After a few preliminary remarks, John B. Rae, chairman of the Committee on Constitution, read their report, some portions of which created warm and interesting debates. The Consti- tution provided that officers must belong to both organiza- tions, and this question, together with the amount of tax and salary of officers that should be paid, caused some rather bitter 16 United Mine Workers of America speeches to be made, so much so, that it was thought advisable to waive the adoption of the Constitution until later on, and adjourn for dinner. At the afternoon session the following committees were appointed : Eight-hour Question — M. Moran, West Virginia; William Blakely, Indiana; William Barker, Pennsylvania; W. C. Webb, Kentucky; A. O’Neal, Tennessee; John Angus, Coke regions, Pennsylvania. Scale of Wages — P. Butterfield, Illinois; J. P. Jones, Ohio; M. Comiskey, Indiana; J. Meade, West Virginia; H. M. Laughlin, John McGinley, and P. Collins, Pennsylvania. Resolutions — Samuel Llewellyn, Ohio ; M. Maher, Indiana ; R. Monohan, Illinois; W. B. Wilson & John Ashworth, Penn- sylvania; James Corrigan, Coke Regions, Pennsylvania. Defense Fund — John Nugent, Ohio; William Scaife, Illi- nois ; A. M. Farrel, Kentucky ; M. McQuade and Thomas But- ler, Pennsylvania ; John Kennedy, Indiana. Owing to a desire on the part of National District Assem- bly 135, Knights of Labor, to meet in secret session, for the purpose of considering some sections of the Constitution, among which was one referring to the qualifications of officers, the Joint Convention adjourned until 3 o’clock. When the Joint Convention re-assembled, blaster Work- man Rae stated that National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, had arrived at a unanimous conclusion favoring that section of the Constitution that had caused so much debate. The section was then read and adopted by the Joint Conven- tion. The adoption of the Constitution, as a whole, was deferred until the committee had completed its work. Robert Linn hav- ing resigned as a member of the Executive Board of National District Assembly 135, and having withdrawn from the Assembly, James Keegan of the Coke Regions, Pennsylvania, was appointed to fill the vacancy on the Committee on Consti- tution. The Convention adjourned until Saturday, to give the committees an opportunity to work. Amalgamation Is Successful 17 SATURDAY MORNING SESSION, JANUARY 25, 1890. The Joint Convention of National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, and the National Progressive Union was called to order at 9 a. m. Resolutions were adopted as follows : “Declaring the determination of the United Mine Workers of America to put the eight-hour work-day in force May 1. “That, hereafter, no contracts for mining or hauling coal shall be made without the approval of the Executive Board, and that all existing contracts, where practicable, be termi- nated on May 1 ; where not practicable, they may be termi- nated as soon as the Executive Board may deem it advisable.” Resolutions were adopted, demanding, by legislation or other- wise, the abolition of company stores, their being injurious to operators, who pay scale rates, agreeing to stand by the Coke workers of the Connelsville region, who are about to demand a new scale of wages ; indorsing the Trades Journal and Na- tional Labor Tribune, as official organs of the Union; declar- ing no local union or assembly justified in discriminating against any person securing or retaining work because of African descent; recommending that the keeping of large bodies of non-resident armed police in any community is liable to create riot and should be abolished by statute ; recommend- ing that delegates to the Convention do all in their power to secure immediate contributions for the support of the striking miners at Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.” The following resolution by David Ross was unanimously adopted : “Whereas, Honorable John McBride, for many years the able and faithful representative of our numerous craftsmen, finds it necessary to sever his official relation with our organi- zation, yet holds himself ever ready to use his influence to pro- mote our interests as miners ; therefore, be it “Resolved, That as a recognition of his distinguished ser- vices, he is hereby declared an honorary member of this organization.” After several weeks’ time had been spent, the Preamble and Constitution in full, that was finally adopted, reads as follows : 18 United Mine Workers of America PREAMBLE AND CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. Esiablished January 25, 1S90. PREAMBLE. There is no fact more generally known, nor more widely believed, than that without coal there would not have been any such grand achievements, privileges and blessings as those which characterize the nineteenth century civilization, and believing, as we do, that those whose lot it is to daily toil in the recesses of the earth, mining and putting out this coal which makes these blessings possible, are entitled to a fair and equitable share of the same. Therefore, we have formed “The United Mine Workers” of America, for the purpose of the more readily securing the objects sought, by educating all mine workers in America to realize the necessity of unity of action and purpose, in demanding and securing, by lawful means, the just fruits of our toil. And we hereby declare to the world that our objects are: 1. To secure an earning fully compatible with the dangers of our calling and the labor performed. 2. To establish, es speedily as possible, and forever, our right to receive pay, for labor performed, in lawful money and to rid ourselves of the iniquitous system of spending our money wherever our employers see fit to designate. 3. To secure the introduction of any and all well-defined and established appliances for the preservation of life, health and limbs of all mine employes. 4. To reduce to the lowest possible minimum the awful catastrophes which have been sweeping our fellow craftsmen to untimely graves by the thousands ; by securing legisla^n looking to the most perfect system of ventilation, drainage, etc. 5. To enforce existing laws; and where none exist, enact and enforce them; calling for a plentiful supplj" of suitable timber for supporting the roof, pillars, etc., and to have all working places rendered as free from water and impure air and poisonous gases as possible. 6. To uncompromisingly demand that eight hours shall constitute a day’s work, and that not more than eight hours shall be worked in any one day by any mine worker. The very nature of our employment, shut out from the sunlight and pure air, working by the aid of artificial light (in no instance to exceed one-candle power) , would, in itself, strongly indicate that, of all men, a coal miner has the most righteous claim to an eight-hour day. 7. To provide for the education of our children by lawfully prohibiting their employment until they have attained a rea- Joint Preamble and Constitution 19 sonably satisfactory education, and in every case until they have attained fourteen years of age. . 8. To abrogate all laws which enable coal operators to cheat the miners, and to substitute laws which will enable the miner, under the protection and majesty of the State, to have his coal properly weighed or measured, as the case may be. 9. To secure, by legislation, weekly payments in lawful money. 10. To render it impossible, by legislative enactment in every state (as is now the case in the State of Ohio), for coal operators or corporations to employ Pinkerton detectives or guards, or other forces (except the ordinary forces of the State), to take armed possession of the mines in cases of strikes or lockouts. 11. To use all honorable means to maintain peace between ourselves and employers; adjusting all differences, as far as possible, by arbitration and conciliation, that strikes may be- come unnecessary. THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED MINE WORK- ERS OF AMERICA. ARTICLE I. Name, Objects and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This organization shall be known as the United Mine Workers of America, composed of N. T. A. 135, K. of L., and the National Progressive Union. Section 2. The objects of this Union are to unite mine employes and ameliorate their condition by methods of con- ciliation, arbitration or strikes. Section 3. This Union shall have jurisdiction over all its affiliated bodies, which shall be governed in all trade matters by this constitution. ARTICLE II. Officers and Their Duties. Section 1. The officers of this Union shall be, one Presi- dent or Master Workman, one Vice-President or Worthy Fore- man, one Secretary-Treasurer, and an Executive Board of seven members, two of whom shall be the President and Secretary-Treasurer, who shall be elected at each annual con- vention. Section 2. The President or Master Workman shall pre- side at all general conventions of the union ; he shall sign all official documents, when satisfied of their correctness; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, fill by appoint- 20 United Mine Wokkers of America ment, all vacancies occurring in the National offices, and in a like manner he is empowered to suspend or remove any Na- tional officers for insubordination or just and sufficient cause; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, appoint from time to time such organizers and workers as may be re- quired ; he shall devote his time and attention to the interests of the Union, and exercise general supervision of its workings, either in the field or in the National office, as his judgment dictates or the exigencies of the case require. Section 3. The Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, shall act as general organizer and shall be under the direction of the President or Master Workman, and shall succeed that officer in case of death or removal from office. Section 4. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of and preserve all books, documents and effects of the national office; shall record proceedings of all conventions and of the meetings of the Executive Board and shall keep copies of important letters sent out by him ; he shall receive and receipt for all moneys, pay all current expenses ; he shall prepare and submit to the locals a quarterly report of all moneys received and disbursed and perform such other duties as may be assigned him ; he shall give a bond of $5,000 for the safe keep- ing of all moneys entrusted to him, but he shall not have more than $2,500 subject to his order at any one time. All other funds must be deposited by him, subject to the order of the executive board. Section 5. The Executive Board shall constitute the Na- tional Board of Arbitration and Conciliation ; shall execute the orders of national conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the workings of the union. The board shall be convened by the President or Master Workman or by the Secretary-Treasurer, at the request of three mem- bers of said board. ARTICLE III. Section 1. The revenue of the union shall be derived from local unions and local assemblies, which shall pay direct to the national secretary -treasurer 10 cents per month per member ; fractional members shall pay in proportion, not less than 5 cents of which shall be used for organizing purposes. Section 2. The national convention shall be held annually on the second Tuesday in April, at such place as may be de- termined upon by the preceding convention. Special conven- tions shall be called by the president or Master Workman, when so instructed by the executive board or at the request of five district unions or divisions. Section 3. Representatives to the national convention from affiliated districts, divisions or locals shall have one vote Joint Preamble and Constitution 21 for 100 members or less, and an additional vote for each 100 members or majority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than five votes, and no person shall be eligible as representative who is not, or has not been, a practical miner. Section 4. No local assembly or local union shall be en- titled to representation in the national convention, who have not in every particular complied with the constitution of the districts in which said labor assembly or labor union may be located. Section 5. Elections of delegates to the national conven- tion shall take place not later than ten days previous to the national convention, and the report of said election shall be in the hands of the national secretary not later than five days previous to convention. Section 6. The President or Master Workman shall ap- point a committee of three, who shall meet in the national office two days previous to the assembling of the convention, shall examine all credentials and audit all accounts of the sec- retary-treasurer, and report the result to convention. ARTICLE IV. Strikes. Section 1. When trouble of a local character arises be- tween members of any local assembly or local union and their employers, the officers of said locals shall endeavor to effect an amicable adjustment, and failing in this they shall imme- diately notify the officers of the district to which the affected locals are attached, and said district officers shall immediately investigate the cause of complaint, and, failing to effect a peaceful settlement upon a basis that would be equitable and just to aggrieved members, finding that a strike would best subserve the interests of the locality affected, they may order the inauguration of a strike, but no local strike shall be legal- ized or supported by a district unless its inauguration was ap- proved of by the officers of the district, or by the National Executive Board upon an appeal taken by the aggrieved mem- bers from the decision of the district officers ; any local union or local assembly striking in violation of the above provisions shall not be sustained or recognized by national office or officers. Section 2. Before final action is taken by any district upon questions that directly or indirectly affect the interests of the mine workers of another district, or that requires a strike to determine, the president or Master Workman and the sec- retary of the aggrieved district shall jointly prepare, sign and forward, to the national president or Master Workman, a writ- 22 United Mine Workers of America ten statement setting forth the grievance complained of, the action contemplated by the district, together with the reasons therefor, and the national president or Master Workman shall, within five days after the receipt of such statement, either ap- prove or disapprove of the action contemplated by the ag- grieved district, and such approval or disapproval, together with reasons therefor, shall be made in writing and a copy for- warded to the secretary of the complaining district. Should the action contemplated by the aggrieved district receive the approval of the national president or Master Workman the district shall be free to act, but should the national president or Master Workman disapprove of the action contemplated the district may appeal to the national executive board which shall be convened to consider such appeal within five days after its receipt by the national secretary; until the national president or Master Workman has approved, or the national executive board has sustained an appeal, no district shall be free to enter upon a strike unless it shall have been ordered by a national convention. ARTICLE V. Qualificattons and Salarij of Officers. Section 1. A member in good standing in either branch of the organization shall be eligible to hold office in the na- tional union ; provided, he has been a member of an affiliated district or division for six months prior to his election and be- comes a member of both branches before qualifying for the office to which he has been elected. Section 2. President, $1,500; Vice-President, $1,000; sec- retary-treasurer, $1,000 ; salary of executive board, $3 per day and expenses, when employed by the president to work in the interest of the United Mine Workers. ARTICLE VI. Miscellaneous. Section 1. The nominations for national officials shall be forwarded to the national secretary at least one month before the national annual convention and the secretary shall send a list of said nominations to each local assembly and local union at least two weeks before said convention, and delegates shall come to the convention instructed to vote for candidates for the respective positions, which vote shall be recorded and be- come a part of the convention’s proceedings. Section 2. No person a member of the organization, who holds a financial or clearance card, showing him to be a finan- cial member (and in good standing), shall be debarred or hindered from obtaining employment on account of race, creed or nationality. Constitution N. T. A. 135, K. of L. 23 Section 3. Any local assembly or local union, who shall wilfully violate the above shall, if proven guilty, for the first offense be suspended from all rights and privileges for three months ; and for the second offense, suspended for six months, or as long as it is deemed best by the national executive board. CONSTITUTION N. T. A. 135, K. OF L. ARTICLE I. Section 1. This body shall be known as National Trades Assembly No. 135, and shall work under a charter granted by the General Assembly of the Knights of Labor. Section 2. In all things it shall conform to the laws of the General Assembly of the Knights of Labor. ARTICLE II. Section 1. It shall be affiliated with and become a part of the United Mine Workers of America. Section 2. It shall in all trade matters be governed by the laws adopted by the United Mine Workers. ARTICLE III. Section 1. This assembly shall meet annually and a call for a convention of the United Mine Workers of America shall be considered as a call for a meeting of National Trades As- sembly 135. Section 2. All delegates elected to the United Mine Workers of America from local assemblies attached to Na- tional Trades Assembly 135 shall become delegates to National Trades Assembly 135 by virtue of said election, but in all cases the National Trades Assembly shall have full jurisdiction upon the eligibility of such delegates. Section 3. Delegates to the general assembly shall be elected at the regular annual session in conformity with the constitution of the General Assembly. Section 4. All officers elected by the United Mine Workers of America shall become the officers of the National Trades Assembly 135 by virtue of such election; provided they are members of the order. ARTICLE IV. Section 1. All taxes and assessments levied by the United Mine Workers of America shall be binding upon the locals and members of National Trades Assembly 135. NOMINATIONS FOR OFFICE. For Master Workman or President: John B. Rae, Robert Watchorn, John McBride, David Ross and Thomas W. Davis. FIRST NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD, UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA, 1890. Top How, loft to rlKlit — It. P. Wnrroii, .lohn Kano, Wm. W. ( WoMi. I'.ottom !{f)W, loft to - Uolx rt WotclHn n, S<‘oi t tai y ; .John M. Kn* , I’n'sitlopt ; !’ntri«‘k M<-Bry(io. First National Executive Board 25 All except Rae respectfully declined, and John B, Rae was elected by acclamation. For Worthy Foreman or Vice-President: A large number of names were presented, but all withdrew except Peter Wise of Pennsylvania, a member of 135 Knights of Labor, P. H. Penna and W. H. Turner. Wise received 53 votes. P. H. Penna, Indiana, a member of the National Progressive Union, 22 votes, and W. H. Turner of Ohio, also a member of the Na- tional Progressive Union, received 103 votes, and was de- clared elected. For Secretary-Treasurer: Patrick McBryde, of Pennsyl- vania, a member of the National Progressive Union received 77 votes. Robert Watchorn, of Pennsylvania, a member of 135 Knights of Labor, received 103 votes. Watchorn was declared elected and the vote made unanimous. National Executive Board Members: Patrick McBryde, Pennsylvania; Wm. Scaife, Illinois; R. F. Warren, Ohio; John Kane, Indiana; W. C. Webb, Kentucky. John H. Kennedy, of Indiana, was nominated for auditor and elected. Provisions were made for the retention of membership in the two organizations known as the General Assembly of the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor, by the members of the open branches paying tax to the American Federation of Labor and the members of the secret branches paying tax to the General Assembly of the Knights of Labor. Districts of the amalgamated body were outlined as follows : One, anthracite region, Pennsylvania; 2, central Pennsyl- vania ; 3, low grade region, Pennsylvania ; 4, coke region, Penn- sylvania; 5, Pittsburg district; 6 to 10, Ohio; 11, Indiana; 12, Illinois; 13, Iowa; 14, Missouri and Kansas; 15, Colorado, Washington and the Territories; 16, Maryland; 17, West Virginia; 18, Virginia; 19, Tennessee and Kentucky ; 20, Ala- bama and Georgia ; 21, Texas, Arkansas and Indian Territory. The following officers were elected : President or Master Workman, John B. Rae of Pennsylvania; Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, W. H. Turner of Ohio; Secretary-Treasurer, Robert Watchorn of Pennsylvania; executive board, Patrick McBryde of Pennsylvania, William Scaife of Illinois, R. F. ■26 United Mine Workers of America Warren of Ohio, John Kane, Indiana; W. C. Webb, Kentucky. J. H. Kennedy of Indiana was elected Auditor. The convention decided to hold a Sunday session in order to permit delegates to return home and thus save expenses which they could not well alTord. The convention assembled at the City Hall at 10 a. m. and received the report of the scale committee fixing prices of min- ing which, as adopted, is as follows : Hocking Valley Western Pennsylvania Indiana block coal Indiana bituminous Wilmington coal Held Streator, Illinois La Salle, Illinois Spring Valley, Illinois Springfield, Illinois Staunton and Mt. Olive, Illinois Peoria district Moundsville, West Virginia Flat Top, West Virginia (run of mine) i Monongahela river Kanawha river Pomeroy, 22nd division Reynokisville (low grade) region (run of mine) .SO .90 .95 .So .90 .90 1.00 1.00 .721/, .061/, .S5 .SO .50- .90 .90 .57 ..50- Price for work in veins under 41/2 feet at same proportion as present prices. There was considerable discussion on the scale of prices that should be paid in the Hocking Valley as well as in the Wil- mington coal field of Illinois, after which the convention ad- journed until 2 o’clock p. m. On re-assembling, discussion on the scale of prices sub- mitted by the committee was resumed. Explanatory speeches were made by William Scaife, David Ross and John McBride, when after further consideration, the scale of prices, here represented, was finally adopted. The committee on defense fund reported their inability to agree and suggested that the national executive board refer the matter for the action of the local unions to be voted on and decided by them. In lengthy arguments on the question, the convention opposed the report and several amendments were made ending with the appointment of P. H. Penna and W. B. Wilson to act as a committee with instructions to report. Closing Hours of Joint Convention 27 John McBride introduced the following resolution which was unanimously adopted : Whereas, The coal interest of the Monongahela river in Pennsylvania is now being discriminated against, and fast being undermined, by the lockage and tollage system permitted by government lease; Resolved, That in the judgment of this convention, the gov- ernment should assume control of the river and make naviga- tion free. Delegate Monohan of Illinois introduced what was termed “the cornhusker resolution,” which was adopted as follows: “That men who only work part of the year in the mines must pay all dues and abide by all conditions of our organiza- tion, and should they fall in arrears during the time they are out of the mines, they must pay all arrears before they can be allowed to work.” The executive board was instructed to map out con\petitive districts, as soon as possible, and when necessary, call conven- tions of each district in the territory agreed upon. Convention adjourned until 9 a. m. CLOSING SESSION — JANUARY 27, 1890. After the joint convention had been called to order, the report of the committee on defense fund was submitted and adopted. The defense fund provides that each member of the new organization shall pay into the general treasury, twenty- five cents per month, until May 1, and fifteen cents per month thereafter, the fund, thus collected, to be used for no other purpose than the support of miners who are locked out or on a strike, each member to receive $3.50 per week, while out of employment under such conditions. Local and district organi- zations have the power to create district funds. The following scale of prices for machine mining, entiy price per yard, and day labor were adopted : Hocking Valley $ .70 Indiana block .85 Indiana bituminous .75 Western Pennsylvania .80 Braidwood, Illinois .95 Streator, Illinois .80 La Salle, Illinois .90 Spring Valley, Illinois .90 CUinMiA.C^^ - r*i <,/■' TSAOES LAEOr Um.OAS. ■■Aff -I ■• ; f// * i/niuiifh nf-i FBO£fiAT/OM OF LABOn. W A}ffo(ilt / tU hp AtDtPATlOfI Aff.zai^AH FiC£»*T/ON AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR ■w.-. -/ /< >r,r #C4 FI f t^-’ry.4/iAC S f CHARTER GRANTED UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA Closing Hours of Joint Convention 29 Springfield, Illinois - 621/2 Peoria, Illinois .75 Staunton and Mt. Olive, Illinois .56% Moundsville, West Virginia .40 Monongahela River, Pennsylvania .80 Pomeroy, Ohio -421/2 Eeynoldsville .40 Entry price per yard and day wages : Entry price per yard $2.00 Drivers per day at 80 cents per ton 2.25 Trackmen 2.50 Trappers ^ 1.00 Trimmers 2.10 Dumpers 2.10 The national executive board held a meeting and decided to issue an address to the mine workers of the United States, explaining the action taken by the joint convention, and its future policy. A local union of both branches was organized by the officers of the United Mine Workers, in order that they might qualify for the respective offices to which they had been elected. The Columbus Ohio Evening Dispatch of January 27, 1890, is responsible for the following episode : Just before adjournment an affecting scene took place. John Nugent and Alexander Johnson, who led the rival or- ganizations in the Hocking Valley, shook hands and swore allegiance to the miners’ union, and to show his sincerity, Mr. Johnson kissed Mr. Nugent in the mouth. Later, Mr. Johnson indorsed the above statement. A song was sung by Mr. John H. Taylor that enraptured the delegates, after which the convention adjourned to meet in Columbus, Ohio, on the second Tuesday of February, 1891. Thus ended one of the most remarkable events in trade unionism. On January 25, 1890, a certificate of affiliation was granted to John B. Rae, John McBride, Patrick McBryde, David Ross, P. H. Penna, W. C. Webb, Robert Watchorn, of the United Mine Workers of America, and their successors in office, by the American Federation of Labor, signed Samuel Gompers, Presi- dent; William Martin, 1st Vice-President P. J. McGuire, 2nd Vice-President; Henry Emerich, Treasurer; Chris Evans, Sec- retary. JOHN B. RAE, NATIONAL PRESIDENT, 1890-1891. WM. H. TURNER, NATIONAL VICE-PRESIDENT, 1890. 32 United Mine Workers of America A FACSIMILE OF CHARTER CONDITIONS American Federation of Labor doth grant this Certificate of Affiliation To John B. Rae, John, McBride. Patrick McBryde, David Ross, P. H. Penna. W. C. Webb, Robert Watchorn and to their successors legally qualified, to constitute the Union herein named and known under the title of UNITED MINE WORKERS of AMERICA for the purpose of a thorough organization of the trade, and a more perfect federation of all Trades and Labor Unions. And the Union being duly formed, is empowered and authorized to initiate into its membership any person or persons in accordance with its own laws. And to conduct the business affairs of said Union in compliance with the best interests of the trade and labor in general. The autonomy of the Union is hereby ordained and secured. PROVIDED, That the said Union do conform to the Constitution. Laws. Rules and Regulations of the AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, and in default thereof, or any part, this Certificate of Affiliation may be suspended or revoked ac- cording to the laws of this FEDERATION. And should the said UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA be dissolved, suspended or forfeit this Certificate of Affili- ation, then the persons to whom this Certificate of Affiliation is granted, or their successors, hind themselves to surrender the same with such other property as shall properly belong to this Federation. And further, in consideration of the due per- formance of the above, the AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR does hereby bind itself to support the said UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA in the exercise of all its rights, privileges and autonomy as an affiliated Union. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, We have subscribed our Names and affixed the Seal of the American Federation of Labor, this twenty-fifth day of January, A. D. One Thousand Eight Hundred and Ninety. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SAML. GOMPERS. President WILLIAM MARTIN, 1st Vice President (SEAL) P. J. McGUIRE, 2nd Vice President HENRY EMRICH. Treasurer CHRIS EVANS, SecretaiT INDIANA MINERS’ CONVENTION. A convention was held at Terre Haute, Indiana, February 25, 1890. John Kane called the meeting to order and a good repre- sentation of delegates were present. The action of the Colum- bus, Ohio, joint convention held in January was indorsed, and the appointment of P. H. Penna as organizer for the United Mine Workers of America by the national officers was highly commended. Resolutions were adopted amending the constitution so that it would conform to the constitution of the United kline Workers of America; abolishing sub-districts and the pay- Indiana and Illinois Conventions 33 ment of a state per capita tax of ten cents per member per month. Patrick McBryde addressed the convention on the subject of having the Indiana operators meet with the miners jointly to agree on a scale of prices for the ensuing year, and the fol- lowing officers were elected : President or Master Workman, John Kane; Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, Joshua Horsefield; Secretary-Treasurer, John H. Kennedy. Executive Board Members: Frank Lockhart, William Win- terbottom, Henry Thomas, David Murphy and Joseph Harris. On the adjournment of the convention it was decided to meet at Terre Haute, Indiana, on the second Tuesday in January, 1891. ILLINOIS MINERS’ STATE CONVENTION. A convention of the Illinois miners was held at the state house, Springfield, Illinois, March 4, 1890. The convention was in session several days, with a fair representation of dele- gates present. After the regular routine of business had been disposed of, resolutions were adopted as follows : Appealing to operators to adjust their own differences, so as to conform to the Columbus scale; the appointment of a joint arbitration board to adjust grievances; the establish- ment of a relief fund for the widows and orphans of miners ; the re-organization of the inter-state plan of adjusting mining rates ; to restrict the working hours to eight per day ; against contracts for mining or hauling coal; to secure the weighing of coal before screening; complimenting the Illinois State Bureau of Labor Statistics, and elected officers as follows : President or Master Workman, William Scaife. Secretary-Treasurer, Ebenezer Howells. Executive Board Members: George Bainbridge, J. C. Tib- bets, George Rubis, James R. Edwards and M. J. Goings. After instructing the executive board to call a meeting in the southern field for the purpose of enforcing the scale of prices on May 1, in the district, the convention adjourned. CHAPTER II. PENNSYLVANIA MINERS’ PITTSBURG DISTRICT CONVENTION. A miners’ convention of the Pittsburg District of Pennsyl- vania was held on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 11-12, 1890. Permanent officers were elected as follows : Hugh McLaughlin, chairman, and John Craig, secretary. The committee appointed on resolutions made the following report : Resolved, That we enter into an affiliation with the river miners and form District No. 5, of the United Mine Workers of America ; that we form a check-weighman fund in divisions, all money collected in the pay-office wherever practical. The constitution adopted provided for the election of offi- cers in conformity with those elected by the United Mine Workers of America at Columbus, Ohio, in January. Section 3 of Article 1 follows ; This union shall have jurisdiction over all locals of the National Progressive Union, and Local Assemblies of N. T. A. 135, Knights of Labor, in this district. About thirty-five delegates attended, including six from the river mines. Another Pittsburg District convention was held at Pitts- burg, March 25, and the credential committee reported thirty- five delegates entitled to seats, representing about sixty mines. National Secretary Watchorn of the United Mine Workers of America addressed the convention and was received with much enthusiasm for the valuable advice given. In the elec- tion of officers for the district, Hugh McLaughlin was again chosen president. OHIO MINERS’ JOINT CONVENTION. On Monday morning, April 14, 1890, a joint convention was held at Columbus, Ohio, between the miners of National Trades Assembly No. 135, Knights of Labor, and the National ( 34 ) Ohio Joint Convention, April, 1890. 35 Progressive Union. The Ohio convention was called to order by John P. Jones, of North ^Lawrence. On motion, the following were elected as temporary officers: President, John P. Jones, North Lawrence; vice- president, Jonathan Longbottom, Washingtonville; and secre- tary, Ebenezer Lewis of Krumroy. The following committee were appointed on credentials: John Peddicord, Bellaire; John Campbell, Sherrodsville ; George Haskins, Washingtonville; John Huddy, Buchtel; John Tyrell, Krumroy. A recess was taken until 1 p. m. Afternoon Session — The committee on credentials reported the following entitled to seats : W. C. Pearce, Corning; D. Bar- clay, Jacksonville; J. Thomas, Coalton; E. Bratton, J. Hood, Dillon; J. Weldy, Wadsworth; J. T. Dugan, W. Applegarth, Maynard; J. Richards, M. Collins, Derthick; T. W. Thomas, Palmyra; 0. Murray, R. L. Davis, Rendville; Ebenezer Lewis, J. Tyrell, Krumroy ; M. Gulliver, C. L. Kimes, Glenroy ; L. Scott, Delroy; A. Wallbaum, Salineville; E. J. Lawrence, Oakdale ; J. Horn, Shawnee ; H. W. Dozier, Redfield ; J. Thomas, Navarre; C. Miller, E. Griffiths, E. George, Massil- lon; H. Harris, Steele; Pat. Hoban, Hollister; W. Nixon, Shields; A. Lux, Millport; L. Hamer, R. J. Maloney, Wells- ton; L. M. Beatty, Pike Run; S. L. Lowden, Beidler; John P. Jones, T. Ratchford, North Lawrence; W. H. Watkins, Car- bondale; A. J. Bennett, Kittanning ; P. Keys, Vinton Station ; W. McCloud, Clinton ; W. H. Llewellyn, E. Riley, Henry Pugh, Nelsonville; E. Thomas, Carbon Hill; W. Webber, Murray City; L. D. Shields, A. D. Wright, Brashears; R. J. Jones, Orbiston; R. R. Jones, J. Campbell, Sherrodsville; 0. L. D. Wilson, J. Sparnon, Monday; W. J. Ryan, Sand Run; D. Gil- lon, J. N. Nye, Glen Ebon; T. Davis, Osnaburg; J. Huddy, Buchtel ; A. Gordon, Dennison ; J. S. Hadley, P. O’Malley, W. Anderson, L. D. Devore, J. A. Peddicord, M. Tormy, S. Glas- gow, Bellaire; F. McDonnough, Steubenville; G. Haskins, J. Longbottom, Washingtonville; M. Joyce, Buckingham; I. J. Ault, Stewartsville ; J. O’Donnell, Manchester; C. C. Cheney, Franklin Station; L. V. Deloche, Bridgeport; J. Franklin, East Palestine; T. H. Kennedy, Newman; J. Ronan, Canal 36 United Mine Workers of America Fulton; S. T. Croyle, Byesville; L. C. Prindle, Coshocton; E. Dawson, Conesville; W. Fitzgerald, Emerson; P. McDon- ough, Cambridge; J. Dobbins, Jackson; C. D. Armstrong, Philo M. Gallagher, Happy Hollow; J. Clemants, Sommers- dale; C. Call, John Nugent, James Coughtrie, New Straits- ville. On motion, the report was received and the committee con- tinued. The Chair appointed the following committee on order of business: Charles Call, Richard R. Jones, William Nixon, Thomas Ratchford and Henry Pugh, who on making their report recommended the following: 1. Provide for consolidation of the two forces. 2. Five divisions or one district. 3. Election of permanent officers. 4. Accept report of credential committee. 5. That no delegate speak more than once on the same question, and that each be limited to three minutes. The report was adopted. Some lengthy discussions ensued regarding voting, when the following committee was appointed: John Thomas, John Nugent, S. T. Croyle. After consulting over the question, the committee reported that on the question of districts the secretary shall call the roll and that each delegate, as his name is called, announce the vote of his constituents for or against one district or five, and that any question as to the number of votes a delegate is enti- tled to who did not comply with the circular, to be decided by the convention without debate, after two delegates speak on the question. As a result of the call, the vote stood : For one organization, 6,881 votes ; for five districts, 1,284 votes ; total, 8,165. The vote was made unanimous for one state organi- zation. The following committee on constitution was appointed : Cameron Miller, Massillon; John Nugent, New Straitsville ; Thomas Thomas, Palmyra; Michael Collins, Glouster; John Campbell, Sherrodsville ; T. Seward Davis, Osnaburg; John Horn, Shawnee. Convention adjourned until 8 a. m. Ohio Convention Continued 37 Tuesday morning session, April 15, 1890. The convention was called to order and the following committees appointed: Resolutions — W. H. Dozier, P. McDonough, C. D. Arm- strong, Joshua Thomas, James Coughtrie. Grievances — P. O’Malley, S. T. Croyle, John Tyrell, R. J. Jones, L. M. Beatty. The report of the committee on constitution was called for and adopted by sections, a portion of which follows : ARTICLE I. Section 1. This organization shall be known as District 6 of the United Mine Workers of America. Section 2. The objects of this union are to unite the mine employes of Ohio and ameliorate their condition by methods of conciliation, arbitration or strikes. Section 3. This union shall have jurisdiction over all locals of the National Progressive Union and local assemblies of National District Assembly No. 135, Knights of Labor, in this district. The convention adjourned, to meet the operators in joint convention. At 4:15 p. m. President Jones called the convention to order again, and the report of the committee on constitution was resumed and adopted as a whole. Election of officers: The candidates were: For president, John P. Jones, John J. Eddy and John H. Taylor. John P. Jones was elected, and the convention adjourned until 8 a. m. WEDNESDAY MORNING, APRIL 16. Convention called to order by President Jones, and the election of officers was resumed. Nominations for vice-president and votes received follow : John Solan, 191 votes; W. Fitzgerald, 625; Alexander Johnson, 593; John Peddicord, 1,203; John Nugent, 4,723. Nugent having received a majority of all votes cast, was de- clared elected. Nominations for secretary-treasurer, with votes cast: Ebenezer Lewis, 5,603 votes; L. M. Beatty, 1,555; Dennis Moylan, 179; James O’Donnell, 472; Charles L. Kimes, 414. The names of W. C. Pearce and S. T. Croyle, nominated, were 38 United Mine Workers of America withdrawn and the nomination and election of Ebenezer Lewis was made unanimous. Convention adjourned, to meet the operators. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Jones at 1 p. m. A short session was held and the following adopted : That each section of the State present a candidate for member of the executive board, which is to be composed of five members. An adjournment was again taken, to attend the joint convention of operators and miners. THURSDAY AFTERNOON, APRIL 17. Convention called to order and the nomination and elec- tion of an executive board, completed the list of officers for District No. 6 of the United Mine Workers of America. President or Master Workman, John P. Jones, North Law- rence; Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, John Nugent, New Straitsville ; Ebenezer Lewis, secretary -treasurer, Krum- roy. Executive board members: Joshua Thomas, Coalton; Hugh Lynch, Washingtonville ; Peter O’Malley, Bellaire; Charles Call, New Straitsville ; Richard L. Da^ds, Rendville. The following preamble and resolution was adopted : “Whereas, Any operator closing down one or more of his mines and transferring the work or contracts to be filled at his other mines, thus forcing the men to remain idle and plac- ing them upon the funds of the organization ; therefore, be it “Resolved, That the executive board investigate the cause of such action, and if causes are unjustifiable, that the board call a suspension of the mines located by such operators, whenever operated in this competitive field, until the mines that are already closed be started up.” A recess was taken until after the joint convention with operators. FRIDAY MORNING, APRIL 18, 1890. Convention called to order at 8 a. m. by President Jones. The grievance committee read a number of local grievances, which were referred to the district executive board : Ohio Convention Adjourns 39 Whereas, There are several operators in the vicinity of Bellaire, Ohio, that require the miners to rent houses before giving them work ; and. Whereas, We, the miners of Ohio, think this an injustice, and should be abolished ; therefore, be it Resolved, That all honorable means be taken at once to abolish this evil wherever practiced. Whereas, The working on Sunday has caused contention wherever practiced ; therefore, be it Resolved, Where miners are compelled to work on Sun- day, they shall receive double pay. This resolution to take effect on the first of May. Whereas, The cost of powder amounts to several thousand dollars to the miners of our district ; and. Whereas, The miners of New Straitsville, in buying their powder direct from the Powder Company’s agent, save for the miners of New Straitsville about three thousand dollars a year; therefore, be it Resolved, That we most heartily endorse the plan of pur- chasing powder direct from company, and most earnestly urge upon all locals to adopt said plan wherever practical; and be it further Resolved, That all miners refuse to pay a greater price than that paid by the miners buying direct from company agent. Whereas, The system of docking in our district is causing considerable trouble to the miners and officers of our district ; therefore, be it Resolved, That any miner sending out unmarketable coal shall be notified by the checkweighman, and if said miner con- tinues to send out dirty coal, his case shall be in the hands of the mine committee and pit-boss, who will investigate and suspend or discharge. That no miner shall be discharged until the mine endorse the action of the committee. Speeches were called for and made by President Jones, Vice-President Nugent, Secretary-Treasurer Lewis, and the following members of the district executive board: Call, Davis, O’Malley and Thomas. A motion was adopted to give undivided support to the officers of the district. President Rae, of the United Mine Workers of America, Secretary- Treasurer Watchorn, Vice-President Turner, and the mem- bers of the National Executive Board, Messrs. Patrick Mc- Bryde, Kane, Scaife, Webb and Warren, also made short speeches. 40 United Mine Workers of America A vote of thanks was tendered to the speakers, and Dis- trict 6 adjourned sine die, to meet in Columbus, the Third Tuesday in January, 1891. John P. Jones, President. Ebenezer Lewis, Secretary-Treasurer. CHAPTER III. WEST VIRGINIA MINERS’ CONVENTION. A convention was held at Wheeling, West Virginia, April 21, 1890. The convention was called to order by State Organizer, M. F. Moran, who stated that the object in calling the conven- tion was to organize a State Union of the United Mine Work- ers of America, to be known as District No. 17. The committee on credentials reported the following dele- gates entitled to seats: Vincent Smith, Horace Smith, J. H. Coble, C. Marsh, H. A. Foster, William A. Jewell, D. W. Cad- wallader, P. F. McAuley, Henry Stephenson, L. J. Hault, F. M. Prickett. M. F. Moran was elected president, H. M. Smith, vice-president, and H. A. Foster, secretary-treasurer. Execu- tive board, William A. Jewell, F. M. Prickett, P. F. McAuley. The constitution adopted provided for the necessaiy changes required, and the president’s salary was fixed at forty dollars per month and necessary expenses; secretary, fifteen dollars per month and office expenses ; executive board mem- bers, two dollars per day and expenses. Patrick IMcBryde addressed the convention and rendered valuable aid in the work done. An effort was made to have the operators and miners of the Kanawha Valley meet in joint conference for the purpose of agreeing on a price for mining. The conven- tion then adjourned, to meet in the city of Charleston, West Virginia, the second Tuesday of April, 1891. On July 15, 1890, the Executive Board of the L^nited Mine Workers of America were in session at Columbus, Ohio. Eight-Hour Question Considered 41 When dealing with the eight-hour question, they were quoted as follows : The question of the eight-hour system was considered, and it was decided that on the first of May next, there should be a general strike of the miners all over the country, unless the eight-hour system is granted. A number of contracts are in force which makes it impossible that the eight hours be adopted before the date named. In the coke regions of Penn- sylvania, the operators have already reduced to nine hours, and pay for all time over that. The carpenters were the first to adopt the eight-hour system under the American Federa- tion of Labor, and it was decided that the miners should be the next in line, and the action of the board is in pursuance of that order. On Thursday, July 17, 1890, the National Officers of the United Mine Workers of America issued a circular informing its members that the demand for an eight-hour workday would take effect May 1, 1891, signed by John B. Rae, Robert Watchorn, Patrick McBryde, William Scaife, John Kane, W. C. Webb and R. F. Warren. During the summer of 1890, W. B. Wilson, then of Bloss- burg, Pennsylvania, was at Lonaconing, Maryland, on a mis- sion calculated to improve the condition of the Maryland miners, by having them become members of the United Mine Workers of America. One beautiful Sunday afternoon, in a cool, shady spot selected, he held a meeting on the outskirts of the town, and was greeted by fourteen people, representing the various walks of life in this noted busy mining town. This lack of numbers, however, did not mean any reflection on the speaker, because he was unknown and unheralded at the time of his visit. In addition to this, eight years previous the miners had suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of the coal operators, when members of the Knights of Labor. Later, however, the seed scattered among the small crowd of interested citizens proved to have been sown on good ground. Secretary Ebenezer Lewis, of District No. 6, of the United Mine Workers of America, having resigned, C. W. Pearce was appointed secretary by President J. P. Jones, for 42 United Mine Workers of America the ensuing term. The auditing committee, Charles Call and Hugh Lynch, reported having found the secretary’s books in excellent shape, showing a balance of $729.07 in the treasury, August 21, 1890. RESIGNATION OP SECRETARY WATCHORN. Columbus, Ohio, Dec. 15, 1890. To John B. Rae, president of United Mine Workers of America. Dear Sir and Brother ; It is with peculiar feelings of sad- ness that I hereby address to you my resignation as secretary- treasurer of the United Mine Workers of America, and also as secretary of the National Executive Board. Signed, Robert Watchorn. A long letter of regrets, through illness, he said, compelled him to sever his connection, accompanied the resignation, with a desire that his resignation be accepted not later than Jan- uary 1, 1891. On December 17, 1890, a miners’ convention was held at Altoona, Pennsylvania, by delegates from District No. 2, com- prising Clearfield, Center, Jefferson, Cambria, Huntington, Bedford, Somerset, Blair and Indiana counties. They met for the purpose of formulating a demand for an increase in wages, to take effect January 1, 1891. The convention was in session for several days. From The Wage-Earners’ Journal, Philipsburg, Pa. : It is currently reported here that Robert Watchorn, secre- tary-treasurer of the United Mine Workers of America, has been tendered a responsible state office by Governor Pattison. Mr. Watchorn was the first among prominent miners, several weeks before the nomination, to declare in favor of Mr. Patti- son, and during the campaign which followed did much toward electing the ex-Governor. The tender of office is no doubt made in appreciation of the gentleman’s efforts during the campaign and in recognition of the liberal support of the mining class. Mr. Watchorn is accredited with possessing the qualifications necessary to discharge the duties of the office. It is also stated that Mr. Watchorn’s resignation will in a few days be in the hands of President Rae . — Ohio State Jour- nal, Columbus, Ohio, December 23, 1890. Ohio Convention, January, 1891 43 CALL FOR ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 5, 1891. To the Officers and Members of the United Mine Workers of America : In accordance with the last convention, our annual con- vention will be held in the City Hall, Columbus, Ohio, com- mencing Tuesday, February 10, 1891. Representatives, for districts, divisions or isolated locals, shall have one vote for each one hundred members or less, and an additional vote for each one hundred members or majority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than five votes. The leading questions to come before the convention will be scale of prices, screens, cash payments and especially the eight-hour movement. The American Federation of Labor, at its convention in Detroit, decided, in accordance with the action of the executive board of the United Mine Workers of America, that the miners should inaugurate the eight-hour day on. the first of May, 1891. It is important that delegates come with all information possible on that question, that all needed preparation may be made. In consideration of our dual form of organization, a meet- ing of National Trades Assembly 135, will be held the same week, commencing Monday the 9th, at 1 :30 p. m. The presi- dent and Master Workman of each district or division or isolated local will please take notice that it will be necessary to hold meetings of the secret branch of the different districts to elect delegates to attend the business that exclusively be- longs to National Trades Assembly 135, Knights of Labor. I would suggest that any important changes desired in the constitution of the United Mine Workers of America would be communicated to us as early as possible, that the executive board may prepare all such matter for the convention. J. B. Rae, President. Robert Watchorn, Secretary-Treasurer. CONVENTION PROCEEDINGS OF DISTRICT NO. 6, U. M. W. OF A. Columbus, Ohio, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 1891. Convention called to order by President J. P. Jones. The following committee were appointed on credentials: Morgan Lewis, Buchtel; W. T. Jones, Nelsonville; F. M. Toilet, Frank- 44 United Mine Workers of America lin Station; James Coulter, Corning; Joshua Thomas, Coal- ton; John Solon, Krumroy; John Campbell, Sherrodsville. A recess was taken until 2 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. The committee reported the following entitled to seats in the convention: J. P. Jones, North Lawrence; John Nugent, New Straitsville ; W. C. Pearce, Corning; Joshua Thomas, Coalton; Hugh Lynch, Washingtonville ; Charles Call, New Straitsville; R. L. Davies, Rendville; W. T. Jones, Nelson- ville; John Preese, Sherrodsville; Ben Evans, Anderson; Robert McCormick, Sand Run; John Peddicord, Bellaire; D. A. Williams, Youngstown; Jeff Thornton, Maynard; James Smith, Salineville; George Douglas, North Lawrence; P. J. Brown, Steubenville; Thomas Welsh, Byesville; George Culp, Wellston; Edward George, Pigeon Run; George W. Thorne, Clover Hill; H. L. Runkle, Wellston; Fred Wend, Nelsonville; W. J. Brown, Wellston; James Maloney, Steubenville; George Jacoby, L. A. No. 2147 ; William E. Farms and Charles E. Starr, Sand Run; George Cavanaugh, Douglas Albaugh, Zaleski ; Allen Neal, L. A. No. 10931 ; P. M. Davies, Byesville; W. H. Watkins, Carbon Hill; D. L. Good- win, Rehoboth; L. M. Beatty, Barnhill; Joseph Thorpe, Wash- ingtonville; Fred Gern, Clinton; W. E. Evans, Carbon Hill; Thomas Martin, Mine No. 19; John Banning, New Pitts- burgh; John H. Taylor, New Straitsville; John Campbell, Sherrodsville; Martin Hughes, Monday; Dennis Sullivan, Washingtonville; John Stitts, Oakdale; Edward Dawson, Conesville; John Healy, Hollister; R. J. Jones, Murray City; Cameron Miller, Newman; William D. Griffiths, Hollister; John Wineford, Sealover; William Seidel, IMonday; G. W. Scheck, Barton; Harvey Ingleden, Salem; Thomas Taylor, New Straitsville; Robert Pearson, Orbiston; Joseph Mullen, Robert Holland, Washingtonville; Edwin James, Glen Roy; Harrison Hoover, Nimisila; Barney McQuade, Coshocton; Fred Dilcher, Orbiston; James Kirby, Glouster; William Embleton, Carbon Hill; 0. B. Koons, Glouster; L. A. Scott, Dell Roy; Robert Robertson, Lakeview; Isaiah Ault, Long Run; Joseph Cunan, Dillonville; H. W. Dozer, Redfield; Ohio Convention, January, 1891 45 C. C. Cheeney, Franklin Station; John J. Eddy, John R. Rob- erts, Fred Peterson, Leonard Clay, R. McLain, Shawnee ; J. H. Levering, Johnston; M. F. McDonough, New Straitsville ; Wil- liam Jenkins, Andrew Braidwood, Buckingham; James E. Davies, Palmyra; John Solon, Krumroy; Thomas E. Miller, Newman; R. L. Davis, William Rice, Rendville; P. M. Don- ough, Cambridge; Charles Parblow, Hamley Run; James Coulter, William Hannigan, Corning; Joseph L. Wright, Cas- singham; F. M. Toilet, Stewartsville ; Adam Nash, Nelson- ville; Moses Farmer, North Lawrence; James Doran, Wells- ton; Donald McDonald, Bellaire; T. L. Lewis, Bridgeport; Ben Hodgson, Leetonia; Mark Gulliver, Coalton; Wl. H. Crawford, Brashears; S. S. Eddleman, Beidler; Wesley Hammon, Wells- ton; Morgan Lewis, Buchtel; Morgan Evans, Glen Roy; Joseph B. Dean, Bellaire; William Moore, Minglewood; J. Boughman, Hemlock; William Nixon, Shields; John Nye, Canal Fulton; J. J. Penrod, Glouster; Frank Stitz, Elton; W. P. Shasteen, Negley; J. D. Gilliland, Floodwood; Ed Stoker, Bridgeport; Robert Burton, Wellston; James O’Don- nel. New Straitsville; V. E. Sullivan, Glen Roy; John Mattox, Ed James, Jackson; James H. Dudley, Glen Ebon; A. A. Adams, Jacksonville; Frank M. Crainer, Glouster; W. C. Pearce, Corning; William Stump, Jacksonville; John McDem- mott, Wadsworth; Joseph J. Winkleman, Wellston; Adam Luse, Massillon. The committee on credentials reported the seats of Morgan Evans, William Nixon and Delegate Dudley contested, but after action had been taken by the convention and a special committee, appointed to investigate, had reported all three were given a voice and vote in the convention. The Chair appointed the following committee on order of business : Edward George, Massillon ; Donald McDonald, Bel- laire; Isaiah Ault, Long Run; A. A. Adams, Jacksonville; R. McLain, Shawnee. The committee recommended the following : 1. Are you in favor of having all coal weighed before be- ing screened? 2. What price shall be paid for the same? The roll to be called so that each delegate will report the views of his con- stituency. 46 United Mine Workers of America 3. Machine question. 4. Scale of prices for engineers, blacksmiths, carpenters, etc. 5. The defense fund. 6. All nominations prior to January 2, 1891, for the dif- ferent offices will be balloted for. 7. Election of officers. 8. Miscellaneous business. 9. That each delegate be limited to five minutes, and no delegate shall speak twice until all others have had an oppor- tunity to be heard. Report adopted. Committee on Resolutions. William Hannigan, Corning; Cameron Miller, Massillon; Fred Wend, Nelsonville; Edwin James, Glen Roy; Richard Jones, Murray City. 0»i Constitution. William Moore, North Lawrence; J. H. Taylor, New Straitsville ; J. J. Eddy, Shawnee; L. M. Beatty, Barnhill; H. W. Dozer, Redfield. On Grievances. Fred Dilcher, Orbiston; John Peddicord, Bellaire; R. L. Davies, Rendville. On Auditing. The Chair appointed in addition to the Executive Board, Robert Robinson, Cottage Grove; T. L. Lewis, Bridgeport: James Doran, Wellston. ADDRESS OF PRESIDENT J. P. JONES. Gentlemen of the Convention : As the chosen representative of the United Mine Workers of America you have assembled in this, the first annual conven- tion, agreeably to, and in accordance with a well established and time honored custom. I, as its president, now submit to you, and through you to our members a summary of the work done during the past year, together with such suggestions as are in line with my convictions as to what is needed to enable us not only to guard against reverses, but still further ad- vance and promote the interest of our craft. The estimated coal production of the state for 1890 is double that of the preceding year, yet it must not be presumed that we, as miners, have all enjoyed a corresponding degree of prosperitj*. This is due to these causes : First, the introduction of ma- chinery; second, lack of shipping facilities; third, the low Ohio Convention, Januaey, 1891 47 prices paid in certain localities, of which I will speak further on. This matter of discrimination in railroad cars is working hardships to miners and operators alike. It is deplorable to witness the interests that are literally melting away under this vicious system that threatens to further prostrate the business of operators that are so unfortunate as to come under its influences, while it either starves our craftsmen or drives them from their homes and families, and I would recommend that you voice your sentiments in language clear and decisive, and that we demand the passage of House bill No. 1742, now pending in the Ohio Legislature. The year just passed has been noted for strife and discontent in the labor world. Never before has so many trials beset the path of the wage worker, while it has been one of unprecedented peace. This is not due, however, to the absence of causes for striking, nor for lack of sufficient reasons, but because we are still carrying aloft the traditional banner of our predecessors, that bears the inscription, “Arbitration and Conciliation.” Strikes During the entire year we have had strikes of a general character, and but eleven of a local nature, nine of which re- sulted favorably, one compromise and one defeat. In May, 70 miners at Yorkville, struck to secure an ad- vance of 10 cents per ton in mining rates, and the enforce- ment of the day scale. After one week’s idleness the company granted the demands, and work was resumed. At the Morgan, Moore and Bayme mines, near Canton, eighty miners struck to secure an advance price of 7^/2 cents per ton. After one month’s idleness a compromise was af- fected by us accepting 5 cents per ton advance, increased price for entry work, and the company agreeing to recognize and treat with the committee. At Diamond, Portage county, 60 men struck for 7i/^ cents per ton advance, semi-monthly pay, and for back pay, then in the hands of the company. This was carried to the courts, and after a legal contest we succeeded in obtaining the ad- vance, sought the establishment of the lawful pay day, and secured the money then due the men. The Osborne Coal Company, at Salineville, attempted to enlarge the area of their screens. After repeated attempts at arbitration for a reduced size of screen, advance price for room turning, and the right to employ a check weighman; these demands were refused, and a strike ensued, which was bitterly contested; but after four months’ strike the com- pany yielded and the men resumed work. 48 United Mine Workers of America The miners of Bellaire and vicinity decided, on May 1, to demand a uniform screen, not to exceed fifty superficial feet. We shall not stop here to discuss the propriety or wisdom of that action. Suffice it is say, that of eleven mines that ceased work the reduced screen is established in ten of them, and the termination, perhaps, justified the action. On September 15, the miners of Clinton shaft struck for the enforcement of the Massillon scale of deficient work. They were successful after three months’ idleness. September 1 the miners of Mahoning Valley suspended work pending an arbitration of their demands for 10 cents per ton on mining rates. The operators refused to treat with your officials, and on the 15th of the same month the men struck. This occurred contrary to my advice, as it was evi- dent to me that sooner or later they must yield. They were not then under our jurisdiction, but they are now, and we must bring that valley into the scale agreement, even though it takes the strength of the entire organization to accom- plish it. In October, the miners of Cambridge Division, of the B. & 0. road, struck for an advance in price for room turning, and the enforcement of a scale for day men. They were suc- cessful, as were the men of the Standard mine in procuring 25 cents per hundred bushel, bank measure. The miners of Cherry Valley were unceremoniously and without cause subjected to the indignity of a lockout. This practice is too frequently indulged in by unscrupulous oper- ators when seeking some transitory advantage over their fel- low operator, denominating it as a business transaction when practiced by them, and a breach of contract if indulged in by us. Strikes and Arhitralion. Much has been spoken and volumes written on the best method of adjusting wage difficulties, and the preponderance of opinion is arrayed on the side of arbitration, as against the more cruel method of striking. We are continually re- minded of the baneful effects of strikes, of the devastation that invariably follows in its wake, and the feeling of distrust that is created that requires years to re-establish; yet, for all, it also possesses its virtues, for many the despotic and tyrannical wretch has been terminated, and many the right- eous conquest has been achieved thereby. Never before in the history of the organization has there been a more manifest desire, or a more perceptive willingness on the part of the employer to submit to arbitration the adjustment of disputes with their employe; and if we but glance over the histoiy of the past year at the many successful wage disputes that have Ohio Convention, January, 1891 49 been adjusted in this manner, it furnishes argument at once, eloquent and convincing, that strikes should not be resorted to only when all other methods have failed, and it becomes an absolute necessity, and I would recommend the creation of a joint board of arbitration and conciliation, similar to that which formerly existed in this district. Defense Fund and Its Manacjement. It has long been reasoned that the best safeguard that can be placed around our interest, the best method to procure justice at the delinquent hands of the operators, and the only bulwark of a labor union worthy of the name, is a strong, substantial defense fund ; and the events of the past year has demonstrated the wisdom of that reasoning. All labor or- ganizations with funds to maintain strikes are seldom called upon to use them, even ; and unscrupulous employers dread a clash of a fund of this kind. It is a potent factor in the re- ducing of strikes, and guarantees the successful termination of those entered into. I believe, however, that the strength of our organization could and would be greatly augmented by giving each state or district control of their own defense fund, thereby giving them home rule in all the word implies. The justice of closing down the mines of those operators who are complying with the rules of our association in pay- ing scale rates, and with whom we have no cause for dispute, has long been a question of doubt. In fact, common sense and justice would dictate that it is unfair to punish the right- eous for the shortcomings of the unrighteous. If there is any advantage to be given to any employer, let it be to those who are dispcsed to treat fairly with us, for if all are to be placed upon the same level, there would be no incentive to spur that action ; no inducement to treat with us as organized men ; and if we desire to establish and continue friendly rela- tions we must reciprocate by dealing fairly with those who evince a disposition to deal fairly with us, and teach a lesson to those who attempt to take advantage of our supposed weak- ness. A defense fund, controlled by districts, would be advan- tageous for the following reasons : 1. It is impossible to build a defense fund to be useful in a national sense, owing to the inability of our members to pay a sum requisite for its accumulation. 2. The efficacy of the same is destroyed by reason of the distance it is situated from us, and the opportunity of doing good will have passed away ere the attention of the national office can be brought to bear on the case at issue. 50 United Mine Workers of America 3. By prompt and timely action many a growing evil has been checked, many a burden has been lifted from the shoul- ders of our members, that if allowed to continue would have assumed gigantic proportions, and would eventually work in- jury to our cause. Equalization of Day’s Wages. In harmony with the sentiments expressed at our national convention, and agreeably to instructions of our national exec- utive board, an effort was made to uniform the wages of the mine laborers of our district. We have succeeded in part only, and if you but consider the difficulties attending an undertaking of this kind you will arrive at the reasonable conclusion that to equalize the day wages, and especially of the unskilled department about our mines, is an utter impos- sibility, because of the dissimilarity in existing conditions and the refusal on the part of these men to join our forces unless guaranteed a certain wage, and their willingness to work for the prices now being paid; and, in my judgment, it would be wise to draw the line of demarkation between the skilled and unskilled labor, giving the preference to those who, by their actions, have said that they are willing to become a part and parcel of our union, sharing its prosperity and bearing its burdens. Every additional dollar paid day men enhances the cost price of production, and to that extent lessens the chances of members of our craft in procuring wages compatible with the work performed. I would, therefore, recommend the formulating of a scale of prices for the skilled department about our mines, deferring action on all others until they, by their conduct, prove themselves worthy of protection at the hands of our organization. Lahor Saving Machmery. In this age of invention and discovery it cannot be de- nied that the tendency is to substitute mind for muscle. In various industrial operations in nearly every trade, many things are now done by machinery that were once done by hand, and doubtless these machines will be constantly increas- ing in number and improving in efficiency, and are destined to further displace and supplant the work now performed by hand. It is no wonder that those of us that had but a contracted range of observation should view vith suspicion and refuse to believe that any special blessing was being visited upon us as laboring men by the introduction of so- called labor-saving machinery in our midst. In the first place, machinery, if not subjected to the manipulating process of Ohio Convention, January, 1891 51 patent sharks, tends to cheapen the commodities we must buy ; moreover, the machine, by lowering the price of the com- modities they produce, tends to increase the demand for the same, and consequently stimulates production. Take for ex- ample the printing press, the machines used in the produc- tion of our bread stuffs, and the inventions of the cotton field ; they have been a boon to society, lightening the burdens of the laborer, shortening the hours of toil and increasing the wages of the operatives. This is not true of the machines used in our mines, neither lightening the labor, shortening the hours, or increasing the pay ; and with these facts before us we are asked to support the machine men in a fair and equitable adjustment of their scale; and, I take it, you will assist in establishing a price commensurate with the labor performed; but let me say to you that the performance of this task requires that reason take the place of sophistry, logic the place of theory, and the exercising of our most deliberate judgment. Weighing of Coal Before It Is Screened. The total production of coal for Ohio, for the year 1889, was 10,907,385 tons; of this amount 1,483,671 tons are as nut; 1,249,388 belong to that class of coal known as pea and slack. It will be seen by these figures that 2,733,059 tons of our product passed through the screens, and to us was a barren waste; this unknown factor, unknown so far as value is concerned, has long been a constant source of irritation and complaint, and hence we have inaugurated this movement, looking to a re-establishment of weighing the coal as it comes from the mine; in order to accomplish this, it will neces- sitate concessions on both sides so as to conform to the new order of things. I feel assured that you are willing to meet any fair basis, willing to make any reasonable concession that will enable us to wipe out this pernicious system that deprives us of that which is righteously and fairly our own. Deficient Work. I take it that we, as an organization, as near as possible, are disposed to place operators in a position where like con- ditions will obtain, so far as competition is concerned. I have learned one thing, however, that, in fixing our price and ar- ranging our scale, we usually take under consideration only the price paid per ton, giving no attention to the de- ficient work necessary to be performed in producing the same. I would therefore recommend that you instruct your exec- utive board to map out and form sub-districts or divisions where like conditions exist, and that conventions be held in 52 United Mine Workers of America each, and legislation be enacted providing pay for all de- ficiency that the miner is obliged to contend with. It is unfair that we, as miners, are compelled to produce coal hindered by water, slate, etc., and receive only the same figure as when our coal is practically pure and deficiency is unknown. Overweight. A constant cause of complaint is the custom now in vogue and extensively practiced, of the placing of a limit on the cars; all coal in excess of that limit is appropriated by the company, and while we recognize the right of any company to determine the capacity of their cars, yet we believe that it is eminently unfair that this excessive weight should be applied to their private use. I would recommend the estab- lishment of a fund, the management of which should be de- termined by those interested, and all overweight should be applied to this fund and the proceeds to be utilized in reliev- ing the distress of any of our brothers who should be so unfortunate as to be injured while plying their vocation. Eight-Tlour Worhdag. The American Federation of Labor has decreed, and our national board has concurred, that May 1 will witness the inauguration of the eight-hour workday. Prior to that our national convention meets, and I take it that at that time full instruction will be given. I would recommend that we stamp it with the seal of our approval and declare by reso- lution that we are ready to move when called upon. My relations with district and national officers have been of the most pleasant character, and the kindly advice and sympathy I have received from officers and members place me under obligations, and to all tender my sincere thanks. You will be called upon to consider many things, to which I have made no allusion, but past experience teaches me that deliberate judgment will prevail. As we enter the second year of our existence, let us press forward, animated by the encouragement of the departed year, let us continue to appeal to the business sense of our associates, let us bear in mind the condition that per\-ades where organization is unknown, undismayed by the reverses we have sustained, let us supplicate the aid of those who are outside the pale of organization, and redoubling our labors, evoking the blessings of Divine Providence, and I anticipate a successful and harmonious convention. John P. Jones, President. Ohio Convention, January, 1891 53 secretary-treasurer’s report. Secretary W. C. Pearce made his report covering the year’s work, including the administration of Secretary Ebe- nezer Lewis from January to August 21, 1890. The receipts to August 21, including cash on hand De- cember 31, 1889, of $957.13, amounted to $3,528.01. Ex- penses, $2,798.94, leaving a balance in the treasury August 21 of $729.07. For the balance of the year 1890, the re- ceipts were $2,623.61, expenses $1,955.89, leaving a balance January 20, 1891, of $1,396.79. To this amount $136.07 was paid by the delegates attending the convention, which left a balance in the treasury January 28, 1891, of $1,532.86. The auditing committee made the following report : We, your committee being appointed to audit the books of the secretary-treasuer, W. C. Pearce, beg leave to report that we have audited, investigated and examined the books and accounts, and find them correct as is shown in this report. John Robinson, T. L. Lewis, James Doran, Auditing Committee. On the roll being called, each delegate as his name was announced expressed the views of his constituents as to the legislation required to make the joint organized forces a suc- cess. After which the convention adjourned. MORNING SESSION. Wednesday, January 21, 1891. Convention called to order by President Jones. Minutes of previous meeting read and deferred for fur- ther action. Resolved, That all coal be weighed before being screened. Adopted. The President appointed a special committee on scale and run of mine coal as follows: Hugh Lynch, James O’Donnell, Andrew Braidwood, G. W. Thorn, Mark Colli ver, John Rob- erts, Joseph Cunan, Thomas Welsh, W. H. Crawford, David 54 United Mine Workers of America Williams, J. D. Winkleman, Adam Nash, William Farms, William Watkins, P. J. Brown, C. C. Cheeney. After a brief interview the committee reported: That the scale for run of mine coal, based on the Hocking Valley, should be 57 1/7 cents per ton. The report of the committee was adopted. The following action was taken on the machine question, and adopted. Whereas, The price now paid for loading coal after the machine does not compensate the loader for the work per- formed, and Whereas, The difference that now exists between the cost of pick-mined coal and machine-mined coal is too great, which amounts to a discrimination on our part against the pick oper- ators ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we demand that, on and after May 1, 1891, men loading coal after the Harrison machine receive three-fifths of the price paid for coal mined with the pick and 5 cents per ton more for loading coal after the Lechner or Legg machine, and when men do their own drilling 5 cents per ton for drilling room coal and 7 cents for dril- ling entry coal, and all other machine work advanced in pro- portion, but all run-of-mine machine-mined coal shall be based on the six-sevenths principle as now adopted by the machine miners of the leading machine mines of Ohio at their conven- tion recently held at Murray City. The day scale for machine men shall be for runners, $3 per day; and for helpers, $2.50. In the Hocking Valley, for cutting coal with the Legg machine, shall be in the entry, break through, room, neck and all narrow work, 12 14 , cents per ton, and room work, 9 cents per ton. After the Harrison or Puncher, the price shall be for all narrow work, 15 cents per ton; in the room, I 31/2 cents per ton, and the drillers shall be paid one-quarter of what the cutters receive, based on the price paid for entry and room work. A message from Chris Evans, secretary of the American Federation of Labor in New York City, was received and read before the convention, bidding us God-speed and to take no step backward. The convention authorized the secretary to reply. In answer to the above, the secretary wired the following : Ohio Convention, January, 1891 55 One hundred and twenty delegates and twelve thousand constituents tender thanks. No step backward. Still the ban- ner district. Resolved, That we favor a scale of prices for engineers, blacksmiths, carpenters and helpers. Adopted. AFTERNOON SESSION. As soon as the convention was organized Hon. John Mc- Bride, Hon. N. R. Hysell, Hon. Samuel Llewllyn, T. W. Davis and Mr. George Leahy visited the convention and all made appropriate speeches, which were well received by the dele- gates present. The following were appointed a committee on defense fund: Thomas C. Miller, Joseph Thorpe and Barney Mc- Quade. The convention then adjourned. MORNING SESSION. Thursday, January 22, 1891. Convention called to order at 8 a. m. The following committee was appointed by the President to extend to the Governor an invitation to attend the conven- tion: Thomas Taylor, Cameron Miller and William Embleton. The committee on constitution made a partial report as follows : Any member is eligible to office in this district provided he has been a member of either branch in good standing six months prior to his nomination, and must be a member of both branches before qualifying for office. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Governor Campbell made his appearance, and was received by the convention with great applause, each delegate rising and cheering in honor of the distinguished visitor. The Governor addressed the convention at length in well chosen remarks, which were received amidst great applause by all delegates present. 56 United Mine Workers of America Chief Inspector of Mines Hazelton and Hon. John Mc- Bride made very interesting speeches and their valuable ad- vice given was duly appreciated. AMENDMENTS TO CONSTITUTION. No salaried officer shall solicit or receive leave of absence to take the stump for any political party, under penalty of forfeiture of his office. At each annual convention of this district seven delegates shall be elected to represent this district in the joint conven- tion of miners and operators, to formulate a scale of prices to govern the ensuing year; that an auditor be added to the list of officials; that members of the executive board must attend all meetings of the district as delegates-at-large ; that locals having more than one vote may give all votes to one delegate, and that all votes cast on questions of price be recorded with each delegate’s name and how he voted, and to become part of the proceedings of the convention. This shall also apply to special conventions. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON DEFENSE FUND. Whereas, Emergencies are likely to arise during the com- ing year by reason of the measure adopted at this convention requiring the full financial aid and assistance of our craft throughout the state ; and Whereas, The assistance fund now absolutely under the national organization is likely to be required to meet the emer- gencies aforesaid ; be it Resolved, That we are in favor of paying the assistance fund in such a way that it will be absolutely under the control of the state officers. Adopted. The following voted no against this proposition: Edwin James, W. H. Watkins, R. L. Davis, C. T. Parblow, J. B. Dean, E. Sullivan, H. W. Dyer, William Rice, Morgan Evans, John Nye, T. L. Lewis, Ed. Stoker. The following preambles and resolutions were adopted : Whereas, The members of Local Union, No. 13, working at the ^tna mine have been locked out since July 1, 1890, for demanding recognition as union men and enforcing scale rates, and have exhausted every honorable means to settle the difficulty without success ; therefore, be it Ohio Convention, January, 1891 57 Resolved, That this convention respectfully request the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor to use their influence in getting the members of the A. A. of I. and S. W. to refuse to handle non-union coal. Whereas, There are some very important bills before the General Assembly of Ohio in connection with labor and its interest ; be it Resolved, That all delegates present call on their respec- tive representatives to do all in their power to secure the passage of said bills; Resolved, That our district officers shall have full power to order men out on strike when working below scale rates. Resolved, That the secretary-treasurer shall make a report every three months of the flnancial standing of this organi- zation and publish the same in our official organ. Whereas, There is considerable neglect in mine officers not demanding cards prior to men commencing work at the mines; therefore, mine officials must demand cards from all men. Be it Resolved, That three copies of the constitution be for- warded to each mine. Whereas, Children of tender age are being employed both in the mines and factories of this state ; and Whereas, The system is injurious to the health and life of those children who are so employed by reason of their child- hood; and Whereas, There is a bill now pending in the Ohio legisla- ture, the text of which is that all children under the age of fourteen years be excluded from such mine and factory ; there- fore, be it Resolved, That we in convention assembled endorse the measure and ask that it be enacted into law. Whereas, There is much dissatisfaction on the over-weight question ; therefore, be it Resolved, That all over-weight be paid into the check- weighman’s fund. Adopted as a whole, and the convention adjourned. MORNING SESSION. Friday, January 23, 1891. The convention was called to order at 8 a. m. and resolu- tions adopted as follows : Whereas, The rule governing the docking system of the state is unsatisfactory; therefore, be it 58 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That valleys, sub-districts or locals adopt such rules as will give satisfaction to their miners, to be approved by the executive board. Whereas, The miners of the Mahoning Valley are consid- erably below the present scale ; therefore, be it Resolved, That the district officers give said valley their immediate attention, and that we, the miners of District 6, pledge our undivided support to said miners in their efforts to maintain scale rates. Whereas, There is dissatisfaction on the part of the miners of Bellaire and vicinity on account of Troll miners going to work ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we believe the miners of the Troll mine acted right in declaring the strike off, under the circum- stances. This convention does hereby demand of the General As- sembly of the State of Ohio the enactment into law of a re- form ballot known as the Australian System. Resolved, That a notice be placed at the mine on the morn- ing of the day on which the company intend loading run-of- mine coal. Resolved, That the Massillon Inde'pendent be endorsed as the official organ of our district. Be it resolved. That we condemn any of our members making known to the mine boss or officials of the company the transaction of business adopted at our mine meetings, un- less regularly elected mine officials. Be it resolved, That we condemn the use of all inferior grades of oil in our mines, and demand that nothing but the best grade of lard oil shall be used in any of the mines. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. President, or Master Workman — John P. Jones was elected by acclamation. Vice-President, or Worthy Foreman — John Nugent, Ed. Thomas, J. J. Eddy. Result of Ballot — John Nugent, 147 ; J. J. Eddy, 42 ; Ed. Thomas, 21. John Nugent was declared elected. Secretary-Treasurer — W. C. Pearce received 112 votes; Hugh Lynch, 16; John H. Taylor, 20; T. L. Lewis, 22; J. R. Roberts, 12; C. L. Kimes, 10; John Crayle, 10. W. C. Pearce was declared elected, and the convention adjourned. Coke Workers Strike for Wage Increase 59 MORNING SESSION. Saturday, January 24, 1891. Convention called to order at 8 a. m. The following Executive Board was elected: Joshua Thomas, Charles Call, Hugh Lynch, Ed James, R. L. Davis. Auditor, L. M. Beatty. In view of the fact that the American Federation of Labor has decided that the United Mine Workers are to carry into effect the eight-hour workday on May 1, 1891; Resolved, That we heartily endorse and instruct our dele- gates to the national convention that we are in favor of en- forcing the same. Adopted. At the appearance of the national officers, John B. Rae and Robert Watchorn, a recess of five minutes was taken to welcome them. Both addressed the convention briefly, and their remarks were well received. Moved that the delegates to the national convention be chosen from the mines or locals. Motion adopted. Delegates elected to the Trades and Labor Assembly of the state were : John P. Jones, John Nugent and W. C. Pearce. The executive board was elected to attend the joint con- vention of operators and miners, to be held in Pittsburg, Pa., April, 1891. A vote of thanks tendered to the officers of the convention, after which the convention adjourned, to meet in Columbus, Ohio, on the third Tuesday in January, 1892. John P. Jones, District President, W. C. Pearce, District Secretary-Treasurer. COKE WORKERS’ STRIKE. Pittsburg, Pa., February 9, 1891. The Connellsville Coke Workers’ strike was for an advance in wages of 121/2 cents per ton for coal mining, as against a 10 per cent reduction demanded by the operators. About 10,- 000 miners refused to work. The workmen offered to continue work at the wages being paid until March 1, 1891, provided the operators would ar- range a satisfactory scale. This the operators refused. The independent, or small operators, then made a proposition to their men to pay the old wages until a settlement of the trou- 60 United Mine Workers of America ble, which being regarded as unsatisfactory was rejected and the strike ordered. The action of the Connellsville workmen in resisting the reduction was indorsed by the delegates at the national con- vention of the United Mine Workers of America February 12, 1891. FIRST ANNUAL CONVENTION OF UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. Columbus, Ohio, Tuesday, February 10, 1891. The convention was called to order by President John B. Rae, who after a few well chosen remarks appointed the fol- lowing committees : Committee on credentials : Daniel Lennon, Clearfield ; James Flynn, Punxsutawney ; C. M. Parker, Scottdale; M. McQuade, Mansfield, Pa. ; W. C. Pearce, Corning, Ohio ; J. H. Kennedy, Brazil, Ind. ; T. J. Logan, Streator, 111. ; Henry Stephenson, Coalburg, W. Va. Committee on rules : P. H. Penna, Linton, Ind. ; J. P. Jones, North Lawrence, Ohio; John Kane, Coal Bluff, Ind.; Peter Wise, Scottdale; James White, Houtzdale, Pa.; M. F. Moran, Wheeling, W. Va. ; Charles Wallace, Mansfield, Pa. President Rae appointed Patrick McBryde assistant sec- retary. President Rae informed the convention that President Gompers of the American Federation of Labor and Secretar>'- Treasurer Hayes, Hugh Cavanaugh, Worthy Foreman, and A. W. Wright, members of the General Executive Board of the Knights of Labor were in the city, and that during the absence of the committee on credentials the time of the dele- gates could not be more profitably employed than in listening to some remarks from those gentlemen, and appointed as a committee to wait on President Gompers and invite him to come and address the convention, Charles McDonald and R. D. Kerfoot, and the representatives of the General Executive Board of the Knights of Labor, James W. Kilduff and James O’Donnell. After a short interval of time the committee returned, ac- companied by the gentlemen named. One-Year-Old United Mine Workers 61 President Rae, amid the cheers of the convention, holding the hands of President Gompers and Brother Wright, ex- plained the relations between the United Mine Workers and the two great bodies of organized labor of America, and con- cluded by introducing President Gompers to the convention. After speeches were delivered by Messrs. Gompers, Wright and Gavanaugh, President Rae called on the Hon. John Mc- Bride, who came into the hall, and addressed the convention at some length. Moved, by Secretary Watchorn, that our thanks be ten- dered the gentlemen who have addressed the convention. The motion was carried by a standing vote; the delegates loudly applauding. President Gompers, in behalf of Brother Wright, himself and the other speakers, thanked the convention, and wished the delegates God-speed in their undertakings. Adjourned until 1 :30 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. As the committee on credentials was not ready to report, a recess was taken until 2 :30. RERORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS. Golumbus, Ohio, February 10, 1891. To the Representatives of the United Mine Workers of Amer- ica : Gentlemen — We, your committee on credentials, beg leave to recommend the following named delegates be entitled to seats in this convention : District 2, Pennsylvania — M. J. Purcell, Dan Lennon, T. A. Bradley, James White, J. 0. Henderson, Mathew Weeks, Wm. S. Powell, Geo. T. Robinson, Robert Snowball, P. F. Hynes, Alex. Caldwell, Jas. W. Kilduff, J. T. Robbins. District A, Pennsylvania — John R. Paisley, Local A. 1473 ; R. A. Kinsloe. District 3, Pennsylvania — W. B. Wilson, James Flynn. District 4, Pennsylvania — John B. Moore, Peter Wise, James Small, Wm. Fallen, James Crow, George Eger, James McBride, George McCarty, L. R. Davis, Michael Barrett, 62 United Mine Workers of America Charles Patterson, Lewis Stiner, Leister Herbert, Mike Dismon, George Neider, Joseph Orish, John Beveridge, Felix McGivern, Michael Morrisey, Simon Meyers, Otto Stitzer, Fred Kline, R. J. Morgan, 0. C. Cunningham, H. L. Ball, W. H. Sutton, John McNulty, W. S. Johnson, Owen Cassady, George Lale, Wm. Hay, Owen Brownfield, D. H. Bare, Wm. Spence, James Keegan, R. D. Kerfoot, C. M. Parker, Joseph Welsh. District 5, Pennsylvania — M. McQuade, Peter Collins, John Ashworth, Charles Wallace, Edward J. McCue, John McGold- rich, James Andrews, Wm. Murray, John Jones, Abraham Winders, James Nelson, Joseph Elkstine, W. H. Love, Ed. McKay. District 6, Ohio — Ernest Baker, A. A. Adams, C. H. Smith, Joseph Gress, David Montgomery, John Lambart, John Solon, Cameron Miller, Michael Ratchford, John Thomas, N. G. Mil- ler, F. M. Tollett, Joseph Curran, J. H. Berrj", Harry Phelps, W. H. Crawford, J. J. Eddy, D. J. Jones, C. D. Armstrong, H. L. Runkle, R. J. Maloney, Hugh Le^^is, C. C. Cheney, W. J. Ryan, R. L. Davis, Hany O’Connor, Barney McQuade, Albert Button, J. J. Penrod, L. Hughes, Sam Martin, George Douglas, P. J. Brown, C. T. Partlow, Wm. Jenkins, Wm. Col- lins, F. M. Davis, M. S. Wolford, Thomas Spink, L. A. Scott, William Burns, L. M. Beatty, Mike Jackson, Henrj* Herrold, N. T. Jones, Morgan Lewis, Fred Dilcher, Joseph Smart, Isaac Jones, John Fahy, W. E. Evans, G. L. Steenrod, John Evans, John Eyley, Wm. E. Farms, Roily Heartgrove, F. M. CravTord, George Archell, Donald klcDonald. District 11, Indiana — Joseph Dunkerly, John Gilmore, Emanuel Dixon, George Taylor, P. H. Penna, R. Garde, Morgan Green, J. B. Sherwood, Thomas Cochran, Frank Lockhart, Joseph Siddons, Thomas Fitzpatrick, J. H. Ken- nedy, John Kane. District 12, Illinois — M. J. Goings, T. J. Logan, Wm. Tho- burn, Samuel Fuge, John Conley, Timothy Bowen, Wm. Kawls, Thomas Westonland, John E. Atkinson. District 13, Iowa — W. H. Turner. District 17, West Virginia — Henry Stephenson, ]\L F. Moran, Edward Nangle, Wm. McDermott, Thomas Burdess, One-Year-Old United Mine Workers 63 Wm. F. Asbury, T. W. Nunley, James J. Miskell, John L. Ed- monds, Patrick McGucken, Thomas Clark. District 19, Kentucky — W. C. Webb. District 20, Alabama — J. L. Conley. District 21 — Thomas McCettigan. Washington — Wm. S. Penman. Division 22, Pomeroy, Ohio — Eli Thomas. Moved, by Representative Kane of Indiana, that the report of the committee on credentials be adopted, so far as there is no dispute, and disputed cases be taken up seriatim. Adopted. Your committee further reports unfavorably on the creden- tials of Joseph Welsh, delegate from Local Union 438 and Local Union 232, those two locals not having recognized their district. This question caused considerable discussion, it having been before the National Executive Board since the solidifica- tion last year. The executive board recommended that the delegates be seated, and that the locals referred to pay tax from the first of the year, 1891. Representative Penna moved that the recommendation of the executive board be concurred in, which was adopted. The convention gave an emphatic expression that the con- stitution must be amended so that locals who do not pay their district taxes will not be recognized by the national organiza- tion. The recommendation of the committee that the delegate from Irwin Station, Pa., be admitted to a seat in the conven- tion with voice and vote was unanimously adopted. In District 5, in which there were nineteen delegates re- ported and only entitled to fourteen votes, the delegates from the district decided who should be seated, and the committee presented the following supplementary report : That the five delegates from District 5 who are not en- titled to a vote be extended the courtesy of a voice and seat without a vote. The names are Charles McDonald, Edward McKay, David Watkins, S. H. Kersop, John A. Cairns. 64 United Mine Workers of America On the credentials of Brother Walker of District 5 we re- port unfavorably. The report of the committee on Charles McDonald’s cre- dentials caused considerable discussion. Moved, by Brother Kane, that the payment of tax by the Federal L. A., Pennsylvania, entitles District 5 to another vote, and the undisputed delegates decide who shall be seated. Adopted. Brother McKay requested and received the liberty to make a statement as to the position of the assembly he represented. At the conclusion of his remarks he was given a seat in the convention and entitled to a vote. Daniel Lennon, Chairman, Henry Stephenson, Secretary. The report of the committee was then adopted as amended. PRESIDENT RAE’S ADDRESS. The past year has been one of the most eventful in the history of miners’ organizations in this country. We started out on comparatively new and untried ground. It was a bold step, not without some risk, yet so full of promise as to justify any possible sacrifice involved. The results more than justify our fondest hopes, and al- though we feel that we have only begun building what we fully expect to be, the greatest organization of wage earners of America, yet the work done makes us feel thankful, and incites us to renewed effort and fresh courage. The difficulties we have met, and misunderstandings that may have arisen, instead of discouraging, should teach us wisdom; and in seeking their correction, it should be vith the desire to bring harmony and not in a spirit of captious criticism; anything personal or vindictive prevents progress and improvement. Const itutional Changes. The tendency of all labor organizations is to make fre- quent and radical changes in their constitutions in the hope that every possible contingency might be covered and the machine made as complete as possible. This is a mistake. Too much drapery is a hindrance to activity, and tight lacing not only prevents healthy development, but makes it impos- sible to bend to the life work wfith that elasticity and ease essential to real progress and success. I would, therefore, recommend that the constitution be tampered with as little One-Yeak-Old United Mine Workers 65 as possible. “The body is best governed that is least gov- erned.” The fewer the laws, the fewer the chances of viola- tion. After all, the intelligent application of great principles by an earnest and competent executive board is the best and only successful form of government for a labor organization. Simplify the constitution you have, if it be necessary, but add as little thereto as possible. Defense Fund. One thing is indisputable, and that is, that we can not have a strong, effective organization without a good, strong treasury. The Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers, the carpenters and glass workers, are pertinent examples. To be really successful, our defense fund should be sufficient to pay a certain sum to members when unem- ployed, whether from strike, lockout or depression in trade. I would recommend that the matter be considered and a plan drafted and sent back to the locals for their consideration. We might be able to take definite action at our next annual convention. In the meantime, I would suggest that, in the future, the general and defense funds be consolidated, and sim- plify the work in the national office, and by setting apart a cer- tain percentage to defense purposes the same end is reached. Twenty-five cents per member, monthly dues, with 80 per cent for defense purposes, would make your organization stronger and more effective. Scale Rates for Mining. A national convention should not attempt to formulate scales of prices for all the different districts, but few of us are acquainted with the conditions outside of our own dis- tricts. It becomes the duty, therefore, of each district to formulate its own scale. When presented here at our annual convention, it is for the purpose of correcting inequalities, modifying extremes and securing such approval as will insure concert of action. Two things demand special attention: 1. The weighing of coal before it is screened. A false public sentiment is created by our present system in screen- ing that is very much against us in any effort to increase prices of mining. We agreed upon 70 cents and 79 cents, as the case may be, for producing a ton of coal, where one ton out of every three we dig goes through the screens, and the digger gets nothing for it. The system also gives encourage- ment to the practice of employing unskilled labor, as anyone can butcher coal. It requires a practical miner to dig it. The greater the butcher the greater the screenings, and the 66 United Mine Workers of America more given away for nothing. We should insist on having a price fixed for all coal mined. 2. That the prices agreed upon contemplates cash pay- ments only. Many operators complain that they are placed at very serious disadvantage in the market by those who rely on their stores (commonly called “pluck-me”) for their profits. Making our arrangements on a strictly cash basis and cor- recting inequalities where they exist, it will be of great bene- fit and bring greater harmony into the mining industry. Hours of Labor. As regularly as we meet in annual convention, our atten- tion is called to the question of reducing the hours of labor. The question has been constantly discussed and emphatic reso- lutions passed, and, to many, it seems as if these efforts were wholly barren of results. The careful student of humanity sees differently. Not only does he hear in those discussions the echo of a constantly felt need, but he sees in those efforts a process of education and a steadily increasing sentiment and growth of purpose that promises great and immediate re- sults. The peculiarly exhausting conditions under which the miner has to earn his bread have compelled him to plead more earnestly for a shorter work-day than perhaps any other wage worker, and in no trade is the desire stronger or the purpose and determination more emphatic than among the miners. What is our position today ? With eagerness we wait for the first of May. Plans now are in order for outlying dis- tricts and no effort must be spared, no sacrifice considered too great to establish the eight-hour work day. An Official Journal. The need of a more direct means of communication be- tween the national office and the membership at large is deeply felt. An official journal devoted entirely to mining interests, in which great questions could be discussed under the direc- tion of your national officers, would greatly tend to build up organization and consolidate our forces. Such a journal would also become, if properly conducted and supported, a source of revenue to the organization. In making this recom- mendation, I beg to say that there is no desire to antagonize or in any way offer any opposition to those labor papers that have done so much for us and have stood us in good stead. More is needed, however, now than they can give. John B. Rae, President. President Rae’s address was well received and referred to the committee on officers’ reports. One-Year-Old United Mine Workers 67 secretary-treasurer’s report in part follows : Columbus, Ohio, February 10, 1891. To the Officers and Members of the U. M. W. of A. : One year ago you did me the honor to elect me to the office of secretary -treasurer ; and it is with peculiar feelings of pleasure that I now appear before you to render an account of my stewardship, feeling as I do that you will accept my report, together with the reports of the executive board and auditor, as an evidence that the great confidence you reposed in me has been kept religiously inviolate. It is not my purpose to make an elaborate report, apart from the financial affairs of the order, because the time allotted for the reading of reports is necessarily brief, and the portion I may justly claim for that purpose will not permit much more than a thorough account of the revenues and expenditures; therefore, whatever recommendations or suggestions I have to make will be peculiar to the financial department. I need not inform you how a year ago we united our forces, combined our efforts, and went forth from this very place with pledges warm on our lips, purposes ripe in our hearts, and determination in our lives to perfect an organ- ization of our craft dedicated to the protection of every in- terest of the mine workers. These pledges did not dispel all doubts, and many were the hearts that trembled and feared ; some lacked the courage of their convictions; others feared the bitter prejudices of past years would not succumb to the holy touches and inspiration of unity consummated here at that time ; indeed everywhere doubt and indecision seemed to show itself, and in no case was there cause for greater apprehension than in the department committed to my care. We went forth penniless ; not a dollar at our command to per- form the prodigious tasks assigned us as a national organ- ization ; our faith never faltered, and every expense for nearly one whole quarter we cheerfully bore, in anticipation of the triumph which we firmly believed would come. At the end of the first quarter our hopes were realized. From the time of the formation of our union until December 31, 1890, we have defrayed the great expenses incident to the successful management of such an immense concern ; our organizers have been sent into every state and territory producing coal in the United States; their voices have been heard proclaiming to every miner the principles we hold dear; we have sent delegates to the meetings of the two great trunks, the general bodies of which we are a part; we have conducted several necessary strikes, securing advances in many instances, pre- 68 United Mine Workers of America venting reductions in others. We have paid out to brothers in need over twenty thousand dollars, and have still nearly twenty thousand dollars in the treasury at the end of the year; and at this, our first anniversary, we stand owing no man a penny. We are in a perfectly healthy condition, and we may say, practically, that in six months’ time (while on trial) we have received over $54,000; and if such a result can be reached in so short a time who shall say our efforts are futile? The union is a success if judged by my department, and woe betide the man or men, who from lack of appreciation, sinister motives, or from any other cause shall seek its dis- solution. We are receiving a revenue from the Shaker Soap firrri, which can all be used in pushing forward the work of organ- izing; but, in this case, the revenue is not the greatest con- sideration, for, by our agreement with the firm we are ex- emplifying the first great principle of our organization co- operation. It affords me pleasure to urge this matter upon your most careful attention, as to me it is the first step towards that co-operation of consumer and manufacturer which is destined to remove the unnecessary but costly mid- dlemen, and ultimately abolish the company stores. As an incentive to this form of co-operation, I recommend that seventy-five per cent of the revenues derived from the sale of said Shaker Soap be sent direct from the national office to the officers of the districts in which the soap is being sold; each district to receive the percentage on its own sales only. Official Journal. I may say briefly that the plan I have to suggest, con- templates a journal to be run from the headquarters of the national union, to be owned and controlled by its executive board. It has been my purpose for nearly a year to submit for your consideration an outline of a new plan upon which to manage this journal; details can be given subsequently. Es- tablish a first-class paper, make it obligatorj^ on every local to take and pay for one copy per annum; make a uniform charge of two dollars per annum per copy; leaving it op- tional with the members to subscribe as they see fit, and make provision to allow one hundred dollars to each subscriber, who may be killed while following his actual employment as a miner; the amount to be paid to anyone designated by said subscriber. The advantages of this plan would be great in many respects ; two in particular, viz. : first, we should be able to reach our members in this manner and educate them One-Year-Old United Mine Workers 69 up to the standard which is essential to our success as an organized craft; second, we can in a small measure relieve the awful distress which almost invariably characterizes the death of one of our number. A properly authorized person could be employed at every mine, whose duty it would be to report weekly the condition of his mine. These reports could be published weekly, mak- ing a directory of information to the mining craft, which would be an invaluable guide to all, and the migratory class in particular. FINANCIAL STATEMENT. ReceiiHs — Genera I Fund. Per capita tax $12,401.29 Supplies 1,176.18 C. S. & H. R. R. montli’s rent 18.00 Shaker Soap Co 129.00 Organizing 3.00 Railroad ticket 5.00 ■ $13,732.47 Expenses — General Fund. John B. Rae, salary and expenses $1,861.05 Wm. H. Turner, salary and expenses 1,172.50 Robert Watchorn, salary and expenses 1,507.79 Pat. McBryde, salary and expenses 1,409.66 John Kane, salary and expenses 340.47 Wm. Scaife, salary and expenses 491.45 W. C. Webb, salary and expenses 151.07 R. F. Warren, salary and expenses 95.85 George Douglas, salary and exjjenses 620.00 P. H. Penna, salary and expenses 20.00 Peter Wise, salary and expenses 235.55 David Ross, salary and expenses 118.20 Geo. E. Dixon, salary and expenses 208.41 N. R. Hysell, salary and expenses 100.00 •John Nugent, salary and expenses 73.01 M. F. Moran, salary and expenses 80.95 Ben. Boden, salary and expenses 62.39 Ebenezer Lewis, salary and expenses 2.75 T. E. Lewis, salary and expenses 1.17 District 12, organizing 25.00 District 17, organizing 45.00 John Costello, organizing 535.00 OflSee rent 174.00 A. F. of L. charter 5.00 Safe for office 200.00 Typewriter 60.00 Office furniture (desk) 34.38 Special tax, K. of L. and A. F. of L 1,322.30 Wm. B. Wilson, to G. A 79.00 Robert Linn, to G. A 53.25 Thos. McQuade, to G. A 67.10 L. M. Beatty, to G. A 78.55 Telegrams 121.24 Postage 321.12 70 United Mine Workers of America stationery and printing 392.49 Office expenses 214.83 Express and freight 117.04 Drafts and checks 3.25 Gas 10.10 Newspapers for office 25.70 Suppiies for locals 1,165.95 $13,602.57 Total receipts general fund $13,732.47 Total expenses, general fund 13,602.57 Balance on hand January 1, 1891 $129.90 Receipts — Defense fund $35,181.29 Expenses — Defense fund 19,967.11 Balance — Defense fund on liand Jan. 1, 1891 $15,214.18 Received on appeal for Punxsutawney, Dunbar and Wilkes-Barre, Pa. miners $5,400.57 Expended 5,013.74 Balance on hand Jan. 1, 1891. Appeal fund $386.83 RECAPITULATION. Receipts. General fund $13,732.47 Defense fund 35,181.29 Appeals 5,400.57 $54,314.33 Expenses General fund $13,602.57 Defense fund 19,967.11 Appeals 5,013.74 $38,583.42 Balance on hand January 1, 1891 $15,730.91 The growth of our movement has been phenomenal and' permanent. During the eleven months for which I am re- porting, we have added 116 locals to our order. These have been organized by knights of labor and progressive unionists almost in equal numbers. Knights of labor have organized open unions, and progressive members have organized local assemblies; showing very plainly that the sacred pledges we gave at the establishment of our union have been fully kept. At our consolidation we had not quite seventeen thous- and members in both unions, sixty per cent of said member- ship being with N. T. A. 135 and forty per cent with the Progressive Union. We have now a total membership of over seventy thousand members, with less than twenty mem- bers of a difference in net membership in the two branches. Thus it will be seen that both branches have more than doubled their membership, and all the strength of the united One-Year-Old United Mine Workers 71 forces directed in one channel, instead of in opposite direction, as in former times. And now I have finished the work you gave me to do; having dilgently endeavored to exercise the most impartial duty to every officer, member, district, and local, it is with a sense of great relief that I return the trust so unanimously committed to my care. In conclusion, I feel called upon to refer to the pleasant relationships existing on the National Executive Board, of which I am a member and secretary. Every intricate and difficult problem has been disposed of with perfect equity, and at no time has there been manifestations of antagonism, such as might have been expected. The field work I have done has been, I believe, of much benefit to the general good of the order; and, in a large measure, we are indebted to the faithfulness and efficiency of the Assistant-Secretary George Douglas, without whose cheerful, efficient and invaluable serv- ices we could scarcely have been so successful. With due thanks to all whose obedient servant I have been for the year just ended, and hoping for increased suc- cess and prosperity, I am, most sincerely and fraternally yours, Robert Watchorn. The following committees were then appointed: Committee on Distribution — Mose Wolford, Edward Nan- gle, R. J. West, Samuel Fudge, R. L. Davis. On Constitution — W. B. Wilson, T. A. Bradley, P. H, Penna, J. P. Jones, R. D. Kerfoot, C. C. Cheeny, P. L. Davis, M. J. Goings. On Resolutions — R. A. Kinsloe, James McBride, John Nugent, Thomas Mittigen, Henry Stephenson, R. L. Davis, Eli Thomas. On District Boundaries — John Kane, Peter Wise, James O’Donnell, William Thoburn, Robert Snowball, J. L, Conley, John Paisley. On Scale— L. M. Beatty, M. F. Moran, W. C. Webb, C. M. Parker, Frank Lockhart, John Thomas, W. J. Raul, Charles Wallace, M. J. Purcell, W. H. Cochran. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON RULES. We recommend that the hour of convening shall be 9 :00 o’clock a. m., with recess from 12 ;00 a. m. to 1 :30 p. m. ; re- convene at 1:30 p. m. and adjourn at 5:00 p. m. ; that the roll call shall take place at the beginning of each morning 72 United Mine Workers of America session; that debate by any delegate be limited to seven min- utes bn any one subject, unless to explain, and by consent of the chair ; that any delegate presenting himself on the floor of the convention under the influence of drink, shall be expelled from the convention for that session; that in all matters of parliamentary dispute, Cushing’s Manual shall be the guide. Order of Business. 1. Officers’ reports. 2. Appointment of committees. 3. Committee on Officers’ Reports. 4. Committee on Finance. 5. Committee on Defense Fund. 6. Committee on Reduction in Hours of Labor and other methods of restriction. 7. Committee on Scale of Prices for Pick and Machine Mining. 8. Committee on Constitution. 9. Committee on Resolutions. 10. Committee on Grievances. 11. Committee on Districts. The committees shall report in the order named above. P. H. Penna, John Kane, James White, Peter Wise, J. R. Paisley, J. P. Jones, Charles Wallace, Committee. Report of the committee adopted, and the convention ad- journed. WEDNESDAY MORNING SESSION. Februaiy 11, 1891. President Rae called the convention to order. After roll call, the committee on credentials reported in favor of admitting Charles McDonald as a delegate, and the admission of John A. Cairns, David Watkins and Thomas Kersop, to be admitted to voice and vote in the convention, and that of Brother Walker, to be admitted to a seat, but no vote. National Proceedings Continued 73 In order to adopt the recommendation of the committee, it became necessary to reconsider the vote of yesterday, adopt- ing their report, which was done and the recommendation of the committee adopted. Mrs. S. W. Smith, of Cincinnati, addressed the convention on Woman’s Suffrage, requesting aid in securing legislation, and was warmly applauded. At the close of her address, Secretary Watchorn moved that the documents she presented be placed in the hands of the Committee on Resolutions, which was agreed to. President Rae read the following telegrams: Pittsburg, Pa., February 11, 1891. John B. Rae, President U. M. Workers: On behalf of the Chronicle Telegraph, I send greetings to the United Mine Workers of America, in convention as- sembled, with concern for your prosperity. Harry B. Layton. On motion the telegram was received and ordered placed in the proceedings. New York, February 10, 1891. John McBride, Columbus, Ohio: Having collected about seven hundred dollars, held sub- ject to wish of convention, with heartiest sympathy for down trodden miners. Lucian Saniel. Moved, by Representative Moran, that the money be sent to the miners of Alabama. Amended, by Secretary Watchorn, that $500 be sent to Alabama, and $200 to the men of Wilkensburg, Pa. After some discussion the amendment was adopted. A recess was then taken until 1 :30, to give the committees time to report. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON SESSION. President Rae called the convention to order and appointed the following committees : Officers’ Reports. — Cameron Miller, John Ashworth, Henry L. Ball, George T. Robinson, Joseph Dunkerly, T. J. Logan, W. F. Ashbury. 74 United Mine Workers of America Finance. — M. McQuade, Morgan Lewis, John Gilmore, John E. Atkinson, James J. Miskell, W. S. Powell, George Neider. Defense Fund. — Richard Maloney, P. F. Hines, J. McNulty, James Andrew, J. J. Penrod, J. B. Sherwood, Timothy Bowen, Patrick McGucken. Reduction of the Hours of Labor. — William Hay, J. McCue, James Flinn, C. D. Armstrong, Morgan Green, F. J. Wester- land, J. L. Edmund, W. S. Penman. Appeals and Grievances. — W. H. Turner, J. V. Henderson, M. Barrett, William Murray, Thomas M. Davis, George Tay- lor, John Donley. The following telegrams were read ; Gallitzin, Pa., February 11, 1891. . James Killduff, Esq. : The bill prohibiting company stores is now a law. T. R. Williams. Moved that the thanks of this convention be tendered Representative Farrell, of the Pennsylvania Legislature, for framing and presenting his “Anti-Pluck-Me” bill, and to all those legislators who have assisted in the passage of the same. Adopted. New York, February 11, 1891. J. B. Rae, Columbus, Ohio : May your deliberations bring about good results, and triumphantly carry the eight-hour work day for the United Mine Workers of America. Chris Evans, Secretary American Federation of Labor. Owing to the illness of Representative McNulty, Presi- dent Rae appointed Representative W. H. Sutton to serve on the Committee on Defense fund. Secretary Watchorn stated that J. J. Jones of Iowa, was present and desired to address the convention on a mining bill before the senate of the United States, applying to the mines of Indian Territory, and moved that he be heard, which was agreed to. At the close of his address, the president appointed the following special committee to report on the measure: J. W. Killduff, James McBride, J. J. Eddy. National Proceedings Continued 75 Representative William McDermitt of West Virginia made an interesting address to the convention on the necessity for a more thorough organization in that state. REPORT OF NATIONAL AUDITOR. Columbus, Ohio, February 10, 1891. Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Convention : My report is not very elaborate, as everything was so nicely prepared that nothing remained for me to do, only to verify the correctness of the accounts ; but I wish to say, that since the convention honored me by election as auditor of this organization, I have thought that the resolution, creating the office of auditor, also carried with it the right to audit ac- counts ; but the executive board has performed that duty for the first three quarters of the year, for which we now report. I think this convention ought to define the duties of that officer. The following will certify that I have carefully examined the books of the secretary-treasurer, and also the financial statement. I find them in every way correct, and very plainly and neatly kept, and heartily congratulate Secretary Watch- orn on the efficiency of himself and assistants. Fraternally, J. H. Kennedy, Auditor. The special committee appointed to examine the mining bill for the Indian Territory, reported as follows : Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Convention ; We, your committee, appointed to consider a bill now pend- ing in the Congress of the United States, known as a bill “for the protection of the lives of miners in the territories,” do recommend that this convention urge upon our represent- atives in the United States House of Representatives and Senate, the justice and necessity of enacting the above named bill into a law; that the miners of the territories receive the protection their dangerous calling requires ; and urge that the representatives of the miners of the United States and Terri- tories, in National Convention Assembled, place their names on a petition, asking our members of Congress to pass the above law immediately. James W. Kilduff, John J. Eddy, James McBride, Committee. Convention adjourned. 76 United Mine Workers of America THURSDAY MORNING SESSION, February 12, 1891. Convention was called to order by President Rae. After roll call, minutes of previous meeting were read and approved. OFFICERS’ REPORTS. We, your Committee on Officers’ reports, beg leave to report as follows : That, having fully examined your officers’ reports, we find that nearly all the reports are covered by the different committees, and that we fully indorse and recommend to the convention the adoption of the same, as far as practical, calling special attention to the following points: 1st. The establishment of an official journal, to be, under the control of the National Executive Board. 2nd. The recommendation of Brother Watchorn in re- gard to revenues derived from the Shaker Soap Company. All of which we respectfully submit for your consider- ation. Signed, Cameron Millar, W. F. Asbury, Geo. T. Robinson, Joseph Dunkerly, H. L. Ball, T. J. Logan, Committee. The report of the committee was agreed to. On the reduction of hours, the following resolutions were adopted : 1st. Resolved, That all miners and mine laborers in the United States demand the adoption of the eight hour law on the first day of May, 1891, that no miner remain in the mine longer than eight hours, and that the system of making coal ready on idle days be abolished. 2nd. That we recommend that the incoming Executive Board devise ways and means for the enforcement of the eight-hour law. RESOLUTIONS REPORTED AND ADOPTED. That the legislature of each state shall be asked to pass a law making it obligatory that all coal shall be weighed before being screened; That all miners in Pennsylvania for- ward petitions for amendments in the present mining law to the Governor and Mining Commission, and it is recom- mended that provisions more strict be incorporated in the law by which greater safety is secured. National Proceedings Continued 77 Resolved, That the members at Raymond City shall re- ceive money from the defense fund to which they are en- titled, and for the rest we institute a voluntary contribution, and that the United Mine Workers defend the law suit at that place. Adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Rae called the convention to order. The Commit- tee on Resolutions continued their report and resolutions were adopted as follows : Resolved, That this convention favor and urge the passage of house bill 365, now before the Ohio House of Representa- tives, relating to the protection of stationary engineers ; That all districts receiving constitutions of the organization print the same in connection with their district laws; That we condemn the use of all inferior grades of oil in our mines, and demand that nothing inferior to lard oil, be used ; That we demand the inauguration of the eight-hour day on May 1, 1891, and invite all organized trades to assist us morally and financially in attaining this end; That we recommend the establishing of an official journal at the national headquarters of the United Mine Workers of America, and the appointing of a special committee to submit a method for the publica- tion of the same, and the method to be reported immediately to this convention ; That we endorse the resolutions submitted by Mrs. Walford Smith, in behalf of the Woman’s Suffrage Association, praying for amendments to the constitution of the State of Ohio and other states, granting female suffrage ; That for the better protection of scale rates in all competitive fields, we most heartily recommend general suspension at one time, at stated intervals, in the several fields forming one competitive district. To the Committee on Resolutions : We, the delegates representing L. A. 1279, of Coal Valley, West Virginia, ask the adoption of the following: Resolved, That Brother M. F. Moran should be aided financially and physically to bring about a better condition of organization in his district. He is now doing all in his power, has worked up a strong feeling in favor of organization, and is taking advantage of any and every opportunity to extend and encourage that feeling. We therefore deem it the bounden duty of this convention to use its best energies to aid the districts which contain the most downtrodden of our craft to be found anywhere within the territory covered by the 78 United Mine Workers of America national district. We represent over one thousand miners, of which number, perhaps less than two hundred are organ- ized, and these men are in direct competition with the miners of Clearfield and other coal fields of central Pennsylvania, as well as the Connellsville Coke District. The companies use the slack, for which they pay nothing, and convert it into coke. Lately, the operators ascertaining that some efforts have been put forth in the direction of organization, they have reduced the weight of the cars about five bushel per car, and are trying to force a strike among the miners, know- ing that it would be detrimental to our interests. We have five mines that we can control and have a committee in; but the strongest operators among them have declared that they would die paupers before they would allow committees in their mines. The men are watching closely, and will note the action of this convention on this matter, and it therefore behooves each member of the convention to so vote that prompt and decisive action will be taken, to the end that Brother Moran’s district may have the financial and physical aid requested. Signed, Joseph J. Miskell, John L. Edmond, Coal Valley, West Virginia. The plea to aid West Virginia was adopted. The following resolutions were also considered and adopted : That in all states where no law is now on the statute books regulating the matter, efforts should be made by the miners to have a law passed, making it obligatory on ever>^ operator of a gaseous coal mine or mines to employ a competent skilled and experienced person to examine the mines each morning, and to report the condition to the mine boss, whose duty it shall be to prevent any person from entering the mine until the mine boss shall have reported it safe, and a fire boss shall be placed at every mine. Whereas, Two national conventions of miners and mine laborers have recommended the introduction of a gas test- ing device and mine signaling apparatus in all gaseous mines ; and Whereas, In the very recent past, two local assemblies attached to this body have been wiped out of existence by explosions in mines caused by carelessness or inefficient methods, or apparatus, for determining the presence of gas; therefore, be it National Proceedings Continued 79 Resolved, That this convention, representing hundreds of thousands of miners working in gaseous mines, do urge on the various State Legislatures the adoption of some system that may be proven more effective, and that it be made com- pulsory on all coal operators to adopt the same where the mines contain gas. Whereas, The workingmen of the Connellsville coke region are on a strike against a reduction ; therefore, be it Resolved, That this Convention endorse the action of Con- nellsville region in resisting the reduction ; be it further Resolved, That competing districts make effort to not send coke to parties who heretofore received coke from Connells- ville operators, or supply those operators with coke. Letters were read from Frank A. Brooks, in behalf of Ohio operators, and Mr. Dempster, operator, from the Pittsburg district. After some discussion on the weighing of coal before being screened, the meeting adjourned. At Friday’s session, February 13, 1891, after President Rae had called the Convention to order, the report of the com- mittee on grievances was made and caused considerable com- motion. The report follows: Grievance of District 2 against the National Officers and Executive Board : Columbus, Ohio, Feb. 9, 1891. To the Committee on Appeals and Grievances of U. M. W. National Convention: We, the delegates representing District 2, United Mine Workers of America, charge the Master Workman and Presi- dent, and Secretary, and Executive Board of the National Union, with neglect of duty, through which neglect we believe we were prevented from getting our just demands. We further demand, that this matter be brought before the National Convention, to receive its attention and rest the responsibility where it belongs. Signed, James White, M. W. and President, Dan Lennon, Secretary, T. A. Bradley, M. J. Purcell, Matthew Weeks, J. V. Henderson, Wm. S. Powell, Executive Board District 2. 80 United Mine Workers of America Columbus, Ohio, February 13, 1891. Whereas, A newspaper in Pennsylvania, known as the “Pennsylvania Grit,” of Williamsport, through its Philadelphia correspondent “B. B.” (R. A. Kinsloe), now a delegate to this Convention, has maliciously, unjustly and dishonorably assailed the character of the Master Workman and President, and Executive Board of District 2, and through the misrepre- sentations of said correspondent and “Grit” editorials, the miners of District 2 have iDecome dissatisfied, and to a certain extent demoralized; and. Whereas, Said correspondent has for months past been retarding the progress of the miners of District 2, by his writ- ings in above named paper, which is still intimidating the miners, by its scurrilous attacks on the miners’ officials, and misrepresentations, that has misled the public as to the true condition of mining affairs, and we believe caused the miners of the District to be deprived from receiving an advance in mining rates, said correspondent continuously asserting “that the miners were not united, that the threatened strike was only a game of bluff” ; and. Whereas, The miners of District 2, in mass meetings, joint meetings, assembly meetings, have unanimously condemned “Grit” and its correspondent for their unjust attacks on the officials of District 2, and their cowardly and un journalistic action in refusing to open their columns to both sides of the controversy, allowing none to enter their columns but their correspondent, “B. B.”, who never put in a day in a coal mine in his life, and, practically speaking, knows nothing about coal mining, though claiming to write authoritatively on the min- ing question of Central Pennsylvania ; and. Whereas, The thousands of miners of District 2 have con- demned “Grit” and its correspondent ; and. Whereas, The National Officers have clearly proven that they did not countenance the “B. B.” articles as claimed by “Grit,” but on the contrary, condemned them, as the following letter from the National Secretary-Treasurer vill show; therefore,- be it Resolved, That this Convention denounce the Pennsylvania “Grit” and its correspondent, “B. B.,” for their unjust, coward- ly and untruthful statements concerning mining affairs in Dis- trict 2. We, the Committee on Grievances, having been put in pos- session of the foregoing information, which was gathered through a grievance having been presented from District 2, against our National President and blaster Workman, after hearing both sides of grievance, have decided — and both par- ties to the controversy have likewise agreed — that a straight- National Proceedings Continued 81 forward course has been pursued by both the officers of Dis- trict 2 and our National Master Workman and President, but that a serious misunderstanding led to the difficulty, which misunderstanding might not have occurred had our Master Workman and President made explanations as to his real posi- tion on the demands of District 2. The officers of District 2 believing from his silence, after they had put his name to their scale after December 17th, that it was approved by the National Executive Board ; Brother Rae arguing that he with- held saying anything about the misunderstanding, fearing it might remove any possibility there was of District 2’s demands being granted; that on account of a postponement being made, he considered, after January 1st, explanation un- necessary. In view of all the circumstances, we, the Grievance and Conference Committee, recommend that, to place our National President and Master Workman, and Master Workman and President and Executive Board of District 2 in the right light before the public, this Convention hereby order the National Executive Board to present the foregoing to the public in such a way that every miner in the Union may know the facts. P. McBryde, T. A. Bradley, W. H. Turner, Special Committee. W. H. Turner, Chairman, John V. Henderson, Secretary, Thomas M. Davis, Michael Barrett, G. H. Taylor, William Murray, Grievance Committee. After this report, motions to refer, to go into executive session and a variety of other parliamentary tactics were resorted to, when it was finally decided that two on each side should discuss the grievance, and the Convention decide which side was right. On the demand being made by Representative Kinsloe, that a specific charge be made, and complied with by Repre- sentative Lennon, that the charge was defamation of the char- acter of Representative White and officers of District 2, the discussion was entered into, with Representatives White, Len- non and Killduff as the complainants. 82 United Mine Workers of America Representative Kinsloe, defendant, assisted by Representa- tives Wilson and Paisley. Much time was spent in discussing the grievance, after which the following resolution was adopted : Resolved, That we emphatically condemn the articles in Grit condemning Representative. James White and the officers of District 2, as Representative Kinsloe disclaims all knowl- edge and authority of said articles ; we consider the charge against him not proven. Convention adjourned. MORNING SESSION. Saturday, February 14, 1891. The Convention was called to order with President Rae in the chair. At the conclusion of roll call a lively discussion followed on the advisability of having secret and open sessions, when, on a partial report being made by the Committee on Constitu- tion, it was moved that the reading of all sections of the Con- stitution referring to the defense fund be read before ad- journment, that the delegates may be in a position to act intelligently in the matter. Meeting adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. The Convention was called to order by President Rae. Discussion was resumed at great length on the de- fense fund, after which the report of Committee on Griev- ances was made, containing appeals for aid from the defense fund for starving miners at the Standard mine, Jacksonville, Ohio ; Superior mine, Glouster, Ohio, and miners locked out at No. 8 mine. Corning, Ohio, which were, on motion, referred to their respective Districts for consideration and redress. The committee indorsed the action of the National Officials concerning the Irwin strike, believing nothing had been left undone that was within their power to bring about the desired end, with the recommendation that it be placed in the hands of the incoming board to receive deserving attention. The same course was pursued that the board consider some means by which the operators of the Westmoreland and Pennsylva- National Proceedings Continued 83 nia Gas Coal Companies be forced to comply with the Na- tional scale. The committee also reported that there had not been a settlement of the local grievances in Streator District, Illinois, on which the Streator Sub-District Executive Board entered a protest at the convention of operators and executive board of that District, we would hereby ask that the National Executive Board be asked to attend to it immediately, and also that hereafter all local or minor prices be settled at or before the time of settling the tonnage price, Streator District 12 having failed to settle the difficulty. T. J. Logan, M. J. Goings, W. Thoburn, Committee. Recommendations concurred in. Whereas, The miners of Mine No. 3, at Rendville, Ohio, have not been paid for break-throughs ; and. Whereas, The miners of said mine have used all possible means to secure pay for the same ; therefore, be it Resolved, That the National Officers shall use every effort to secure these miners pay for all break-throughs driven, which they are by all means entitled to. R. L. Davis. On recommendation of the Convention, this matter was placed in the hands of the Executive Board for immediate action. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON BOUNDARIES. District 1 — Anthracite regions of Pennsylvania. District 2 — The counties of Jefferson, Clearfield, Center, Indiana, Cambria, Blair, Huntington and Bedford, Pennsyl- vania. District District District District District 11- District 12- District 13- District 14- District 15- District 16- District 17- District 18- -Low Grade, Pennsylvania. -Coke regions, Pennsylvania. -Pittsburg District, Pennsylvania. -Ohio. -Indiana and Southwest Kentucky. -Illinois. -Iowa. -Missouri and Kansas. -Colorado, Washington and Territories. -Maryland. -West Virginia. -Virginia. 84 United Mine Workers of America District 19 — Tennessee, Eastern and Southeastern Ken- tucky. District 20 — Alabama and Georgia. District 21 — Texas, Arkansas, Indian Territory and Mexico. The report of the Committee on District 2 was by motion referred to the Executive Board. John Kane, Wm. Thoburn, James L. Conley, Peter Wise, James O’Donnell, John Paisley, Committee. COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS. Columbus, Ohio, February 13, 1891. We, your Committee on Ways and Means, submit the fol- lowing recommendation for your earnest consideration : 1. The propriety of establishing a paper, which shall be the official organ of the United Mine Workers of America, to be published weekly, and shall be owned and controlled by said miners’ organization. We recommend that said paper shall be originated and set on foot by money from the general treasury of the United Mine Workers of America, and said organiza- tion shall purchase type sufficient to carry on said business, and shall have said paper printed by union printers, and in the opinion of your committee, the price of the paper be one dollar per annum, and no benefit be attached until our next annual meeting. Said management to be under the control of the National Executive Board. 2. How said money shall be raised : We recommend that there shall be a five cent levy assessed per capita on all mem- bers of the United Mine Workers, and said money be sent to the general Treasurer and used directly in the interest of said paper, and each local shall subscribe for one copy of the paper. Peter Collins, Wm. G. Miller, Emanuel Dixon, Henry Stephenson, W. H. Lewis, H. L. Ball, Committee. By motion, the report was referred to the incoming Execu- tive Board. National Proceedings Continued 85 REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON SAFETY APPLIANCES. We, your Committee on Mine Disasters and Safety Ap- pliances, recommend that the legislature of each State be urged to make a law to the following effect : That a local board of examiners be appointed at each gaseous mine, and that this board consist of two practical miners, working at the said mine, together with the mine boss or other representative of the company. The appointment of miners on this board to belong to the majority of miners at said works. The duty of said board to be the examining of miners as to their efficiency in the knowledge of safety lamps and how to use them, especially in time of danger. Seeing that the employing of unskilled miners in mines where firedamp is generated is detrimental to the safety of all persons employed in said mines, therefore, we recommend that the legislature of each State be asked to pass a law, that no person be employed in any mine where safety lamps are used without a certificate stating his efficiency in the knowledge of safety lamps, and how to use them in time of danger, and that a sufficient quantity of air shall be furnished to remove all dangerous gases from our mines. We also recommend that there be created a State Board of Examiners in each District where at present none exists, whose duty it shall be to examine applicants for mine and fire bosses from the various districts to which the board belongs, and that the examining board consist of one representative of the operators, the district mine inspector, and one miner, and that the National Executive Board of the United Mine Work- ers of America recommend the miner named to the Governor of the State for appointment. We recommend that each State pass a law, making it obligatory on the part of engineers to have certificates of com- petency, and that the legislature of each State be asked to make a law to the following effect : “That all operators of gaseous mines be compelled to place Shaw’s apparatus in every mine generating gas, until the com- ing of a more perfect machine.” In support of this, your committee beg to say that it is their opinion that had this machine been in use in the Mam- moth mine such a terrible catastrophe as that which shocked the entire world a few weeks ago would never have occurred. Seeing that many accidents have occurred at mines where miners descend and ascend by a shaft, and that these accidents are due to the inadequacy of the mining law in this respect, therefore, we, your committee, recommend that the legislature 86 United Mine Workers of America of each State be asked to pass a law, “That all companies be compelled to place a competent person at the top and bottom of each mine, while miners are ascending and descending.” Seeing that miners, when injured in or about the mines, are sometimes compelled to remain a long time at the surface before being conveyed to their homes; therefore, we recom- mend that the legislature of each State be asked to pass a law making it obligatory, that all companies be compelled to keep at their works, always for ready use, an ambulance wagon and other conveyances for conveying injured miners to their homes, Joseph Siddon, Edward N angle, Alexander Caldwell, Isaac Jones, President, James Small, Secretary, Michael Ratchford, Committee. On the adoption of the report, O’Conner and Robbins voted. No, Adjourned, to meet Monday morning, MORNING SESSION. Columbus, Ohio, February 16, 1891. The meeting was called to order by President Rae, roll called, and minutes of Friday and Saturday sessions read and approved. On the presentation of mining prices for Districts 5 and 6, action was deferred until the Committee on Scale reported. The following resolutions were adopted: That we demand of the House of Representatives and Sen- ate of each State and Territory, within the mining districts of the United States, to enact such law or laws that will require all coal to be mined by weight ; and, be it further Resolved, That all individuals or corporations operating coal mines, be required by law to place weigh scales on all tipples. That the Secretary be instructed to send to Lucian Saniel and the Central Federation of New York the thanks of this Convention, for noble words and substantial proof of the in- terest manifested in the welfare of the United Mine Workers of America. That all resolutions pertaining to National organizers be referred to the National Executive Board, for them to use their best judgment as to sending organizers to any district. National Proceedings Continued 87 That a member of the Executive Board of each district be given the agency of the National organ, and accompany the agency with a commission as organizer, in order that we may be able to reach the entire mining craft in the United States and Territories, and use every effort to induce all non-union miners to join our ranks and subscribe for the National organ of our grand organization. Whereas, Convict labor of the South has become a great factor in the labor market, and especially is this so of Ala- bama; therefore, be it Resolved, That this Convention use all lawful and hon- orable means within its power to bring about the abolishment of this infamous system. That no miner or mine laborer sign any contract, ironclad, or agreement, without first being approved by the National Executive Board. Whereas, Unfortunate and regretable differences and dis- agreements have, from time to time, arisen in various locali- ties, between unions and assemblies of similar trades and call- ings, to the great detriment and injury, not alone of those im- mediately concerned, but to the cause of labor generally ; and. Whereas, The United Mine Workers of America are con- nected and affiliated with both, the Order of the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor, and are there- fore sepecially interested in terminating all such unseemly and injurious conflicts; therefore, be it Resolved, That, in the opinion of this Convention, a treaty or agreement should be entered into by and between the Order of Knights of Labor on the one part, and the American Fed- eration of Labor on the other, in which it should be stipulated and provided : 1. That unions and assemblies working at the same trade or calling, and who are attached to or affiliated with either of the two general bodies, shall at all times recog- nize and respect each other’s working cards. 2. That all labels which are the property of either of the two general bodies, or of any subordinate body attached to or affiliated with them, shall be recognized and officially endorsed by the two general bodies. 3. That no person who is an expelled or a suspended member of any assembly or union attached to or affiliated with one of the general bodies, or who is in arrears for dues or assessments, or in any way indebted to such union or assem- bly, shall be admitted to membership in any union or assembly affiliated with 'or attached to the other general body, without the consent, in writing, of the union or assembly to which he formerly belonged or is indebted ; and be it further Resolved, That the delegates from National Trades Assem- bly 135, to the General Assembly of the Knights of Labor, and 88 United Mine Workers of America the representatives of this body to the American Federation of Labor, be and are hereby requested and instructed to use their utmost endeavors to bring about a treaty or agreement on the basis above set forth, and to that end that the said delegates and representatives introduce resolutions in their respective bodies for this purpose. Resolved, That we condemn the system of weighing our coal on the hat or railroad cars, and that we demand the weighing of our coal on scales that have their bearings above ground. Whereas, Our organization has no definite manner of knowing the exact amount of coal going into market and the general statistics as to the average wages per man; there- fore, be it Resolved, That this Convention demand that every check- weighman be required to keep an account of all coal mined in their respective mines ; number of days run in month ; num- ber of hours worked per day ; number of cars per man ; aver- age weight per car; average wages per man, and report monthly to the secretary of their district on blanks furnished by him for that purpose from district to National Secretary. Whereas, District 13, composed of the miners and mine- laborers within the limits of the State of Iowa have become organized, and appeal to this body for assistance to perfect their efforts ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we extend a hearty welcome to the miners of the Hawkeye State, and pledge all support practicable, with their earnest co-operation, to perfect their much appreciated efforts towards becoming a part of this gigantic body. Resolved, That where it is proven to the satisfaction of the District and National Executive Boards, that places which are well organized and discriminated against in times of restric- tion, on that account, the National Executive Board shall have power to assist them as their judgment dictates. On the adoption of the aforesaid resolutions, the Conven- tion adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Rae, and the Executive Board was empowered to borrow from the defense fund $2,500 for the purpose of preparing for the enforcement of scale rates in the different competitive fields; said money to be refunded within the space of six months. National Proceedings Continued 89 REPORT OF SCALE COMMITTEE. Report of scale prices for the following named districts : District 15 — Referred to the district. District 16 — Maryland and Meyersdale, 50 cents per net ton. District 17 — Kanawha River, 75 cents per net tOn. New River, 50 cents per net ton. Pomeroy, to be settled at Pittsburg Conven- tion. Moundsville, West Virginia, 80 cents per net ton. Flat Top, West Virginia, run of mine, dSi/o cents per net ton. Fairmount District, West Virginia, run of mine, 50 cents per net ton. Coal Valley, West Virginia, run of mine, 50 cents per net ton. Coal Valley, West Virginia, screened coal, 62 cents per net ton. Cannelton, West Virginia, Cannel coal, 75 cents per ton. District 19 — Run of mine, 65 cents per net ton. District 20— Pratt and Wheeling mines, 50 cents per ton. Blocton coal, 5 cents advance on present prices. Blue Creek, 45 cents per ton. Coalburg (Drinking branch), coal over 3 feet 6 inches, 50 cents; coal over 3 feet and under 3 feet 6 inches, 55 cents; coal under 3 feet, 60 cents. Other mines at Coalburg, 60 cents. Warrior, 75 cents. District 21 — Coalgate, Krebs, McAlester, Alderson, Harts- horn — Screened coal, 4 4-5 ; run of mine, 3 9-10. Bryans — Screened coal, 4 9-10; run of mine, 3 9-10. Jenny Lind, Coalhill, Lloydsville, 90. Huntington — Screened coal, 3 9-10 ; run of mine, 2 9-10. We recommend that the prices for machine mining be 12i/^ cents below prices paid for pick mining. L. M. Beatty, President, C. M. Parker, Secretary, M. F. Moran, W. C. Webb, Frank Lockhart, Charles E. Wallace, M. J. Purcell, John Thomas, W. H. Crawford, Committee. 90 United Mine Workers of America On motion, the question was then taken up and adopted by sections; on machine mining: Whereas, The price now paid for loading coal after the ma- chine does not compensate the loader for the work actually performed, and, owing to the peculiar character of the system on machine mining, is detrimental to men making reasonable wages who follow them ; and Whereas, The difference that now exists between the loss of pick mined coal and machine mined coal is too great, which amounts to a discrimination on our part against the pick operators; therefore, be it Resolved, That we demand that on and after May 1, 1891, men loading coal after the Harrison machine receive three- fifths of the price paid for coal mined by the pick and five cents more per ton for loading coal after the Lechner or Legg machine, and when men do their own drilling five cents per ton for drilling room coal and seven cents for drilling entry coal, and all other machine work advanced in propor- tion. Resolved, That the price for loading coal after machines in Ohio shall not be less than three-fifths of the price of pick mining; that the price of machine mining in Illinois be I 21/2 cents below that of hand mining; that the price of machine mining in District 5 be placed in the hands of the incoming Executive Board; that the difference between pick mining and the Harrison machine shall be I 21/2 cents, and that the details be left to the State Convention of Indiana. The machine question was well discussed and resolutions agreed to. The amended Constitution in part follows: CONSTITUTION FOR 1891. ARTICLE I. Name, Objects and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This organization shall be known as the “United Mine Workers of National District Assemblj' 135, Knights of Labor, and the National Progressive Union.” Sec. 2. The objects of this Union are to unite mine em- ployees and ameliorate their condition by methods of concilia- tion, arbitration or strikes. Sec. 3. This Union shall have jurisdiction over all its affiliated bodies. Amended Constitution in Part 91 ARTICLE II. Officers and Their Dniies. Section 1. The officers of this Union shall be, one President or Master Workman, one Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, one Secretary-Treasurer, and an Executive Board of seven members, three of whom shall be the President, Vice-Presi- dent, and Secretary-Treasurer, who shall be elected at each annual convention. Sec. 2. The President or Master Workman shall preside at all general conventions of the Union; he shall sign all official documents when satisfied of their correctness ; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, fill by appointment all vacancies occurring in the National offices, and in like man- ner is empowered to suspend or remove any National officer for insubordination or just and sufficient cause; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, appoint from time to time such organizers and workers as may be required; he shall devote his time and attention to the interests of the Union, and exercise general supervision of its workings, either in the field or in the National office, as his judgment dictates or the exigencies of the case require. Sec. 3. The Vice-President or Worthy Foreman shall act as general organizer, and shall be under the direction of the President or Master Workman, and shall succeed that officer in case of death or removal from office. Sec. 4. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of and preserve all books, documents and effects of the National office; shall record proceedings of all conventions and of the meetings of the Executive Board, and shall keep copies of all important letters sent out by him ; he shall receive and receipt for all moneys, pay all current expenses ; he shall prepare and submit in circular form to the locals a quarterly report of all moneys received and disbursed, and perform such other duties as may be assigned him ; he shall give a bond of $5,000 for the safe keeping of all moneys entrusted to him, but shall not have more than $2,500 subject to his order at any one time. All other funds must be deposited by him, subject to the order of the Executive Board. Sec. 5. The Executive Board shall constitute the National Board of Arbitration and Conciliation; shall execute the orders of National Conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the workings of the Union. The Board shall be convened by the President or Master Workman, or by the Secretary-Treasurer at the request of three members of said Board. 92 United Mine Workers of America ARTICLE III. Section 1. The revenue of this Union shall be derived from Local Unions and Local Assemblies, which shall pay direct to the National Secretary-Treasurer twenty cents per month per member. Fractional members shall pay in proportion. Fif- teen cents of which shall be set aside for defense purposes, which shall not be used for any purpose other than supporting members who may be locked out or on strike. Sec. 2. Where trouble occurs in any locality between our members and their employers, it shall be the duty of the dis- trict officers of the district in which such trouble occurs, to investigate said trouble immediately and report at once to the National officers, requesting a decision thereon; and if the National officers fail to render a decision in ten days from date of receipt of such intelligence at the general office, the District President shall have power to call the men on strike, and the members so involved shall be entitled to the stipulated weekly allowance from said fund. Sec. 3. Every member in good standing who is locked out or who is on strike and whose cause has been approved by national officers or District President in accordance with Section 2, shall receive three dollars and fifty cents per week while said member is on strike or locked out, which pay shall commence on the second week’s idleness. After a strike has been inaugurated in accordance with the above provisions, no power shall exist in National officers to declare such strike off, except with the consent of a majority of the members in- volved. Sec. 4. No Local Assembly or Local Union shall be enti- tled to representation in the National Convention who have not in every particular complied with the Constitution of the Districts in which said Local Union or Local Assembly may be located. Sec. 5. Elections of delegates to the National Convention shall take place not later than ten days previous to the Na- tional Convention, and the report of said election shall be in the hands of the National Secretary not later than five days previous to Convention. Sec. 6. The President and Master Workman shall appoint a committee of three, who shall meet in the National office two days previous to the assembling of the Convention, shall exam- ine all credentials and audit all accounts of the Secretary- Treasurer, and report the result to the Convention. Resolved, That we, the United Mine Workers of America, do, here in convention assembled, desire for the purpose of stopping strikes and lock outs, that our National Board shall First Annual Convention District 11 93 cause to be introduced into every State and United States Leg- islature, bills for the creation of courts of arbitration whereat we can have at any time the disputes arising settled. After the adoption of this resolution, the rules were sus- pended, and the convention adjourned until 7 :30 in the even- ing. NIGHT SESSION. February 17, 1891. On resuming business in the evening, officers were elected as follows : For President or Master Workman, John B. Rae. Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, P. H. Penna. Secretary-Treasurer, Patrick McBryde. Executive Board, W. B. Wilson, John Nugent, W. C. Webb, John Kane. The retiring Secretary-Treasurer was unanimously elected an honorary member, as a mark of esteem and appreciation of his efficient and faithful services. John B. Rae was elected President or Master Workman by acclamation, as was also W. B. Wilson as senior member of the Executive Board. The recommendation for a ten cents advance in Iowa, Mis- souri and Kansas, was referred to the National Executive Board. Convention adjourned sine die. FIRST ANNUAL CONVENTION DISTRICT NO. 11. The first annual convention of District No. 11, of the Unit- ed Mine Workers of America, was held at Terre Haute, Ind., March 3, 1891. The officers elected follow : Mike Comesky, President or Master Workman; Arthur Davison, Vice-President or Worthy Foreman; John H. Ken- nedy, Secretary-Treasurer; Executive Board, Mike Com- esky, Arthur Davison, John H. Kennedy, John Kane, Frank Lockhart, Joseph Dunkerly, J. A. Coneroy. Terre Haute was made headquarters for the State offcers. On the termination of the joint scale agreement between the miners of District No. 10, of the National Progressive Union, and the operators of Ohio, April 30, 1890, together 94 United Mine Workers of America with the joint agreement entered into by the operators of the Pittsburg District, Pennsylvania, and District No. 4, of the National Progressive Union, ending on the same date, the operators and miners of both States were unable to agree on a renewal of joint contracts for the following year. The failure of Ohio and the Pennsylvania Pittsburg Dis- trict to continue the joint agreement plan with the United Mine Workers of America during its first year was a source of much regret because of the fact that Ohio and Pennsylvania miners and operators had made joint agreements when Illinois and Indiana held aloof with no immediate assurance of reunit- ing in the joint methods -that had worked so well until the Mine Workers’ division of forces had contributed the ground work upon which the operators’ refusal was based. A costly lesson to miners that failed to reason until the stern hand of necessity, through the experimental school, com- pelled them to yield. CHAPTER IV. CONNELLSVILLE COKE STPvUGGLE. AN APPEAL TO ORGANIZED TRADES AND LABOR OF THE COUNTRY. The following circular has been indorsed by the Executive Council of the Federation of Labor and General Executive Board of the Knights of Labor : Pittsburg, Pa., March 31, 1891. To the Organized Trades and Labor in General Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, and the General As- sembly of the Knights of Labor : Brothers: Allow us to lay before you the condition of affairs existing in the Connellsville coke region, in connection with the struggle now in progress there, between the mine operators and their employes. In the beginning of February we met the operators to arrange our yearly scale of prices, our last scale ending on the 10th of said month. No settlement was reached at that time, because of the depression in the iron industry during the latter part of 1890. Because of said de- pression large stocks of coke had accumulated in the market, and there being no immediate demand for our labor or its An Appeal to American Workmen 95 product, a temporary and friendly suspension was agreed on, with the further agreement that another conference should be held when either party had a proposition to submit. When another conference was asked by us, as we had been led to believe was desired by them, a few of the operators met us on March 2, but to our surprise, refused to organize for the transaction of business, alleging that a 10 per cent reduction from last year’s rate of wages was necessary, and refused to- negotiate any settlement except on that basis. We could not consider this proposition, so the matter rested there, with the understanding that any change should be made known to the proper parties interested. Notwithstanding the duplicity with which they had met us previously, we had yet to witness more strikingly the ex- istence of that characteristic in the coal operators of the Con- nellsville coke region which came in the shape of a scale of prices — not for one year as is our rule, but for three years — being posted up at the various plants in the dead of night, without having been submitted to the committee representing the miners, or to the officers of our organization. This “scale” besides calling for a reduction in wages, although less than 10 per cent, asks that the miners shall agree to work not less than nine hours per day, to continue for three years. The fight for the establishment of the eight-hour workday is thus forced upon us earlier than we anticipated, and there is nothing left us but to meet the issue. It is impossible for us to evade it. As we have been select- ed as the next trade to make the fight for eight hours, we are compelled to declare that fight now on, and the first battle is now raging in the Connellsville coke region. As it is essential to the progress of the “short hour” move- ment that there be no halting or backward moves, we appeal to you for all the moral and financial aid possible to render us. Fourteen thousand men have been idle since the beginning of February, while several thousand of those men have been idle since in December, and the work had not been sufficient to keep them employed full time for months preceding the shut- down. Thus we have on our hands fifty thousand men, women and children to care for. With the liberal help you can give us we feel confident of being able to carry this struggle to a successful issue. Knowing that hopes of the toiling millions are involved, we ask you to respond with that promptness, and liberality commensurate with the interest at stake. Now is the time for labor to concentrate its efforts. With the miners victorious in this struggle, the greatest battle of the movement is won. 96 United Mine Workers of America All aid (except provisions, which should be sent to C. M. Parker, Scottdale, Pa.), should be sent to Patrick McBryde, Room 53, Clinton Building, Columbus, Ohio. Yours fraternally, J. B. Rae, President U. M. W. of A. P. H. Penna, Vice-President U. M. W. of A. Patrick McBryde, Secretary. New York, April 9, 1891. The Executive Council of the American Federation of La- bor, in indorsing the above appeal to assist the coke workers of Western Pennsylvania, most earnestly request all unions affiliated to render all assistance they can, of the struggle they are now engaged in against their employers, whose ulterior motive seems to be the destruction of the Miners’ Union, and the defeat of the eight-hour movement. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President. Chris Evans, Secretary. MINERS’ NATIONAL CONVENTION. PITTSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA, MONDAY, APRIL 6, 1891. For the purpose of considering matters postponed from the convention at Columbus, Ohio, the miners’ delegates held a meeting Monday afternoon, April 6. The convention was called to order by P. H. Penna, who appointed the following committee on credentials : John Philipson and W. C. Pearce, Ohio; M. McQuade and George Newton, Pennsylvania; John Kane, Indiana; and M. J. Goings, Illinois. After a recess of thirty minutes, the committee reported that the credentials of sixty-one delegates had been approved. The report was adopted and the committee continued. The chairman appointed the following committee on or- der of business ; John P. Jones, Ohio; Charles Wallace, Penn- sylvania; Frank Lockhart, Indiana; W. C. Murray, Illinois; S. W. Peters, West Virginia. Vice-President John Nugent, of District 6, addressed the convention on the propriety of taking up the portion of the scale for District 6 where it was broken off at the Columbus convention. Several motions having been made, the chairman PiTTSBUKG National Convention 97 of the committee on order of business reported the commit- tee had selected the scale as the first subject for discussion. A motion to allow each delegate five minutes to speak, and only to speak once, was carried. John Kane reported the status of affairs in Indiana. He said that since the Columbus convention a bill had been passed by the Indiana Legislature that was now a law, requiring coal to be weighed before screening. As a result, at their late convention, the Indiana miners only drafted a scale for run of mine coal, although the scale was made on a basis of 75 cents. Mr. Kane spoke in favor of eight hours, but was opposed to making any concessions for the purpose of getting the operators to bite. M. Logue, of Pennsylvania, was in favor of 89 cents or its equivalent, for run of mine, eight hours a day and the aboli- tion of the “pluck me” stores. At this point, the following order of business was pre- sented by the committee and adopted : 1. Discussion of scale. 2. Discussion of eight-hour workday. The discussion was then resumed. William Murray, of Pennsylvania, opposed the system practiced in parts of West- ern Pennsylvania, of having different prices for different sizes of coal. A motion to call the roll and hear the reports from dele- gates was amended to make the discussion indiscriminate, and was carried. Reports From Delegates. M. J. Goings, of Illinois, said the conditions in his State were the same as at the time of the Columbus convention. At a meeting in the northern part of the State, the men had expressed themselves in favor of eight hours, gross weight and weekly pay, but opposed to an advance. If compelled to, they would try and sell their labor as dear as anyone else. George Scott, of Shawnee, said there were a hundred men idle at that place, and those who are working are keeping those who have no work. The men looked upon eight hours as a foregone conclusion. 98 United Mine Workers of America Morgan Lewis, of Ohio, was in favor of eight hours, but no reduction in wages of day men. M. Gulliford, of Ohio, was in favor of eight hours, but would prefer an advance generally. He favored both. He was opposed to sectional strikes on any question. The discussion was again interrupted by a motion that the convention go into executive session, which was carried. A. Winders, of Pennsylvania, believed eight hours would advance the price of mining. He was opposed to the present rates for the year, but would accept them on condition that the miners reserve the right of demanding an advance during the year. Any attempt to accept present rates, he thought, would injure the price of mining on the river and tend to dis- rupt the organization. J. Shaming, of Black Diamond, was opposed to anything that would bring the miners on a strike, except the eight hour workday. It was true the men in his section had won the last strike. They had the victory, but that was all. The river miners were not prepared to demand that coal be weighed in the cars. S. V. Peters, of West Virginia, said he had no instructions, but was willing to go with Ohio, or abide by the decision of the convention. Eight Honrs in Practice. Representative Kenny said his constituents were in favor of an advance and would put eight hours into practice them- selves. H. Leonard, of Pennsylvania, was in favor of an advance of 10 cents, coal weighed in the car and eight hours. Representative Wallace, of Pennsylvania, said the miners of his district were already shipping coal to the lakes. He was in favor of a half yearly scale instead of a yearly one. He was for eight hours. Representative Smart, of Ohio, was in favor of an eight- hour day, the price to remain as at present. He was in favor of a yearly scale. S. Bardoe, of Pennsylvania, was in favor of eight hours and the weighing of coal in cars, but no fight over it. Pittsburg National Convention 99 W. C. Murray, of Illinois, was in favor of eight hours and opposed to asking any advance. George Fletcher, of Mansfield, Pa., was in favor of eight hours and 70 cents a ton, run of mine, as the price. W. H. Crawford, of Ohio, was in favor of eight hours. He believed the men had a reform that would be of more benefit to them than an advance. T. Cole, of Ohio, was uninstructed. If his constituents could secure the weighing of coal before screening they would forego claims to an advance. W. Robertson, of Pennsylvania, was for eight hours, 89 cents per ton for mining, and the abolition of the “pluck me” stores. Isaac Jones, of Glouster, Ohio, favored eight hours and three-fourths the price of pick mining for machine mining. J. Jones, of Pennsylvania, wanted eight hours and 70 cents, run of mine, for mining. W. E. Farms, of Sand Run, Ohio, was in favor of eight hours and an advance, if other sections of the country could be brought up. Representative Kane offered a motion to suspend the rules and proceed to the next order of business, but it was lost, be- ing opposed by John Nugent, who said it would prevent a number of delegates from speaking, while others had been heard. All to Be Heard. Jos. Curran, of Dillonvale, Ohio, complained as to the action of the National Secretary ordering the men of that place back to work when they were out on strike. Reports showed the miners at Beechcliff and Imperial mines, Pennsyl- vania, wanted eight hours and 70 cents a ton for coal in cars. At Walker’s Mills the miners wanted 31/2 cents a bushel for mining and eight hours, but to work with the majority. George Newton, of Pennsylvania, was for eight hours, and he believed the organization should confine itself to that movement up to May 1. He favored 92 cents as the price of mining. A. Savage, of Pennsylvania, wanted eight hours, coal weighed in car and 92 cents a ton for mining. 100 United Mine Workers of America D. McDonald said his constituents were generally in favor of eight hours and an advance. The men at Troll’s mine, in Ohio, it was reported, were in favor of eight hours and an advance of 10 cents, but opposed to weighing coal before screening. At Wheeling Creek they were in favor of eight hours and an advance, but above all, eight hours. M. Collins, of Ohio, was in favor of eight hours and weigh- ing coal before screening. He wanted the machine question settled. The men using machines at Job’s mine in Ohio wanted an advance. E. Thomas, of Murray City, said the men at that place using machines wanted an advance, but dreaded the fight for eight hours. They wanted eight hours, but nine-hour prices. J. T. Duff, of Tom’s Run, Pa., was instructed to vote for 89 cents a ton for mining and eight hours, and on other ques- tions had discretionary power. The men at Anderson also wanted eight hours. John Philpot, of Ohio, was for an advance of 10 cents and eight hours. William E. Applegate, of Ohio, was also for eight hours and 80 cents per ton for mining. William Hodgson, of OJiio, favored 75 cents per ton as the price for mining. Alex. Johnson, of Ohio, had instructions to do the best he could for his constituents. The question of weighing coal before screening was then taken up and a motion to lay it on the table indefinitely was defeated. A motion to base the scale on run of mine was made, but the convention decided by a vote of 41 to 17 to refer the whole matter to a scale committee. The following committee was appointed: John Kane and Frank Lockhart, of Indiana; James Goings and George W. Murray, of Illinois; W. H. Crawford and J. P. Jones, of Ohio; C. Wallace and A. Winders, of Pennsylvania, and S. W. Peters, of West Virginia. The convention adjourned. Pittsburg National Convention 101 The Scale Question. When the miners reassembled Tuesday morning, the com- mittee on scale submitted the following: Resolved, That the price of mining in the Hocking Valley be 80 cents and prices in other parts of the competitive field be on a relative basis. Resolved, That the price of mining in the Pittsburg dis- trict be 89 cents for one and one-half inch coal, and 74 cents for three-fourths inch coal, and 61 cents for run of mine. This was accepted as a partial report. A motion to con- cur in the first recommendation of the committee was made and an amendment offered to strike out the words “com- petitive field” and insert “District 6” (the State of Ohio) . The amendment was carried. On the motion as amended there was considerable discus- sion as to the propriety of deciding the price of mailing in the Hocking Valley. A number of delegates were of the opinion that in settling the price of mining for that section the price in all parts of the competitive field was virtually settled. The motion as amended carried. The discussion on the price of mining in Pennsylvania brought up the old question as to the differential between the Hocking Valley and Western Pennsylvania. When the scale was formed in 1887 the differential was 11 cents per ton in favor of the Hocking Valley. Owing to the fact that natural gas displaced about 20,000 tons of coal a day in Pittsburg, it was necessary to reduce the differential to 9 cents. Now the supply of natural gas had considerably decreased and the local coal trade had correspondingly increased. Representative Wallace, of Pennsylvania, argued that while the operators of the western part of that State ought to have a fair share in the markets of the northwest, the miners ought to have the right to demand an increase in the fall. Representative Nugent, of Ohio, was opposed to having two differentials. As the operators sought the differential on account of gas, they ought to be paid back in gas. Representative McLaughlin defended the present differ- ential. At noon the delegates adjourned to meet with the oper- ators at 2 o’clock. 102 United Mine Workers of America THE JOINT CONVENTION. OPENING OF THE SIXTH ANNUAL WAGE CONFERENCE. The sixth annual wage conference of Ohio and Western Pennsylvania coal operators and miners began Tuesday, April 7, 1891, at 2 p. m., in the Allegheny county court house. There were 78 operators present and 73 delegates from the miners. Over 35,000 miners were directly represented, while the result of the conference affected a total of 75,000 miners. Alexander Dempster, chairman of the last convention, pre- sided. In his opening address, he said the occasion was the most critical in the history of the coal business, and the utmost candor and wisdom would be needful to effect a set- tlement. He believed both sides would act conservatively. The following committee on credentials was appointed : Miners, W. C. Pearce, Ohio; M. McQuade, Pennsylvania. Operators, F. S. Brooks, Ohio ; J. Morton Hall, Pennsylvania. The following delegates were reported and given seats in the convention : Ohio — Miners : Edmond Thomas, Longstreth ; George Scott, J. E. Jenkins, John Nugent, Shawnee; W. E. Farms, Sand Run; S. Wright, Joseph Smart, Orbiston ; Thomas Ken- ney, John Phillipson, Steubensville ; Morgan Lewis, Buchtel; Martin Gulliford, Coalton ; Thomas Thomas, Bridgeport ; Wm. E. Applegarth, Maynard ; George Wend, Alex. Johnson, Nelsonville; Harry Williams, Stell; William Hodgson, Can- nelville; Joseph Curran, Dillonvale; Wm. Burns, Startle; W. H. Turner, Guernsey Valley; James McKee, Salineville; Thomas Cole, Edmund James, Glen Roy; W. H. Crawford, Brashears; John Banning, New Pittsburg; John P. Jones, North Lawrence; Hugh Lynch, Washingtonville ; W. C. Pearce, Corning; Charles Call, New Straitsville ; Joshua Thomas, Coalton; R. L. Davis, Michael Collins, Rendville; Isaac Jones, Glouster; John Fahy, Jacksonville; J. A. Ped- dicord, Donald McDonald, Bellaire. Pomeroy Division — F. G. Jones, Thos. Turnbull. Pennsylvania — Abram Winders, Finleyville; Hugh Leon- ard, Banksville; John Logue, Shaner; M. McQuade, D. Mc- Garrey, Chas. E. Wallace, James B. Riley, John Klein, George Fletcher, Hone Cruse, Simon McCafferty and J. McCue, Mans- Joint Conference with Operators 103 field; Samuel Purdoe, Monongahela City; James Andrews, Imperial; George Newton, Coal Bluff; John Jones and Samuel Devore, Venetia; Joseph Shaming, Black Diamond; William Murray, Gastonville; James McFarland, Beach Cliff; William T, Duff, Federal; Adam Fose, Leesdale; Andrew Savage, Charters Valley; William Robertson, Idlewood; James McGrogan, Walkers Mills; James Newman, Guffys Station; W. X. Thomas, Irwin Station; John Dunn, Cherry Mine; William Lloyd, Sawmill Run; Thomas Swillcon, Ros- coe; Michael Horn, Woodville; Patrick Halloran, Bower- hill; W. R. Lightburn, Buena Vista; and John M. Goldrich, Snowden. Illinois — Geo. W. Murray, Canton; M. J. Goings, Spring- field. Indiana — John Kane, Frank Lockhart. West Virginia — S. W. Peters, Moundsville. Kansas — P. H. O’Donnell, Weir City. The operators represented were: Ohio — E. L. Sternberger, Ade Coal Company; H. S. Wil- liard. Center Valley Coal Company; W. S. Heatherington, Belmont Coal Company ; F. B. Chapman, Chapman Coal Com- pany; C. A. Smith, Carbondale Coal Company; W. S. Court- right, Courtright, Kistler & Co. ; W. E. C. Coxe and V. Fergu- son, Columbus and Hocking Coal and Iron Company; J. D. Hurd and M. E. Shaeffer, Consolidated Coal and Mining Com- pany; S. H. Graves, Chicago and Ohio Coal and Car Com- pany; B. J. Malone, Chartiers Oak Fuel Company; Coleridge Salt Company; J. E. Jones, Emma Coal Company; H. S. Wil- liard, Franklin Coal Company, Fluhart Coal Company, Hurd Coal Company; J. E. Jones, Globe Iron Company; J. Mor- row, Hippell Coal Company; B. J. Malone, Coke, Coal, Salt and Manufacturing Company; Juhling Coal Company, D. S. Lewis & Co., Peacock Coal Company, Pearce Bros. & Co., Syracuse Coal and Salt Company, and John E. Williams & Co. ; E. T. Jones, Jones Coal Company; M. Morgan, Jones, Morgan & Co.; T. A. Jones, Jackson Hill Coal Company; John Bus- tard, Jefferson Coal and Iron Company; L. D. Lampman, Juniper Bros. & Lampman; J. A. Murphy, Lucy Coal Com- pany; C. Morris and G. W. Brashears, Morris Coal Company; 104 United Mine Workers of America F. Williams, Morgan Gorall, Moses Morgan, Northern Coal Company; Ceorge Hall, Nelsonville Coal Exchange; D. Pat- terson, Thomas Johnson, New Pittsburg Coal Company; T. A. Jones, Ohio Coal Company; Oscar Townsend, A. J. Boggs, Pittsburg & Wheeling Coal Company ; C. L. Poston, C. L. Pos- ton & Co. ; L. Rochershaushen, Pittsburg Coal Company ; W. P. Rend, W. P. Rend & Co.; Samuel Raybould, Raybould Bros. ; W. L. Caten, Southern Ohio Coal & Iron Company ; Morrison Foster, Stripped Vein Coal Company; Ceorge W. McCook, Steubenville Coal and Mining Company ; Moses Mor- gan, Standard Coal Company; A. L. Hart, Cedalia Coal Com- pany; R. M. Stalter, Stalter, Devore & Co.; J. S. Martin, Sandy Creek Coal Company; H. L. Chapman, Tropic Iron Company ; S. J. Patterson, Tom Corwin Coal Company ; A. J. Boggs, Tuscarawas Valley Coal Company; T. J. Morgan, Wellston Coal Company; Walter Upson, Upson Coal Com- pany; H. S. Wallace, Willard Coal Company; J. S. Wallace, Wallace & Brooks; Wainwright, Wheeling and Lake Erie Coal Company. Pennsylvania — F. Armstrong, Armstrong & Co. ; D. I\I. Anderson, Anderson & Co.; U. A. Andrews, Imperial Coal Company; J. T. Armstrong, Mansfield Coke and Coal Com- pany; James Blythe, Blythe & Co.; William Beadling, Bead- ling Bros. ; Alexander Dempster, Monongahela and Peters Creek Cas and Coal Company; J. C. Dyser, Chartiers Block Coal Company; Henry Florsheim, Union Valley Mines; J. Morton Hall, Pittsburg and Chicago Cas and Coal Company; R. H. Lattimer, Yough Slope Cas and Coal Company; W. C. O’Neill, O’Neill & Patterson; Alexander Patterson, Patter- son & Sauters; F. B. Robbins, Robbins Coal Company and Midway Company; F. L. Robbins, Pittsburg Consolidated Coal Company, Willow Crove Coal Company and Shaner Cas Company and First Pool Monongahela Mining and Coal Com- pany; J. M. Risher, J. M. Risher & Co.; D. Reisinger, W. J. Scully, Monongahela and Peters Creeks Cas Company; Ceorge Schleuderberg, Oak Ridge Coal Company; J. D. Sau- ters, Sauters & Co. ; N. T. Sanford, Sanford & Co. ; Jesse Sandford, Thomas Taylor, Black Diamond Coal Company. President J. B. Rae, Vice-President P. H. Penna and the Joint Conference with Operators 105 entire Executive Board of the U. M. W. of A. were in attend- ance. Alexander Dempster, operator, of Pittsburg, was unanimously re-elected president of the conference. Patrick McBryde, miner, W. C. Pearce, miner, J. Morton Hall, operator, and F. S. Brooks, operator, were elected secretaries. The following scale committee was chosen : Ohio miners, J. P. Jones, W. H. Crawford; Pennsylvania miners, Abram Win- ders, C. E. Wallace; Ohio operators, H. S. Willard, C. Morris; Pennsylvania operators, George W. Schleuderberg, J. C. Dyser. The conference adjourned to meet at 9:30 Wednesday morning, to allow the committee time to report. When the joint meeting adjourned. President Rae called upon the miners’ delegates to remain. The discussion on the price of mining in Western Pennsyl- vania was resumed. Abram Winders moved that the differen- tial be increased one cent. President Jones, in a very careful and well delivered speech, argued in favor of an increase of the differential to 12 cents per ton between Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Secretary McBryde advised the delegates to let well enough alone. Vice-President Nugent, of Ohio, was in favor of a greater differential. No decision was reached when the convention adjourned, to meet the operators. EIGHT-HOUR QUESTION. MINERS FORCE ITS CONSIDERATION AS OF FIRST IMPORTANCE. The Wednesday morning session was called to order at 9:30. Mr. Schleuderberg, of the scale committee, reported that the committee had agreed on the scale base of last year, Hock- ing 60 cents and Pittsburg 69 cents per ton. The report of the committee was adopted by the follow- ing vote: 106 United Mine Workers of America No. Yes. Ohio miners 4 Ohio operators 4 Pennsylvania miners 4 Pennsylvania operators 4 Total 4 12 The chairman declared the motion carried and asked what was the further wish of the convention. After some discussion of the scale, President Rea informed the convention it was necessary that the question of a shorter working day be discussed, as the miners looked upon eight hours as paramount to all other questions and would refuse to take up anything until that question was settled. The oper- ators asked for a recess, which was granted. When the con- vention convened, Hon. Morrison Foster moved that the rules be suspended and that the convention go into a committee of the whole for the purpose of discussing the eight-hour ques- tion. The motion was carried. President Rae was called to the chair. On a motion by A. Dempster, speeches were limited to thirty minutes. Vice-President Penna said : It devolves upon us to state our posiiton as we introduced the question this morning, so I will state briefly the grounds we have for asking an eight-hour day. Among other state- ments, Mr. Penna gave an account of the workings of the eight-hour workday in older countries that had reduced the hours of labor from fourteen to six hours per day in many branches of industry; that the agitation had come to be respected throughout the world, but more so since 1885, when it became more prominently before the public. He said the carpenters had been selected by the American Federation of Labor to make the first fight, and had succeeded in establish- ing it in their craft; that the American Federation of Labor, representing the trade unions, had designated the miners to be the next to engraft the movement, but at the date set the miners were not in a condition to ask for eight hours, having made contracts with the operators that they felt in duty bound to respect, and because of this let the matter drop for another year. He further said that when the Federation met at De- troit, Michigan, in December last, they re-affirmed the conclu- sion that we should demand eight hours, and, to the extent that they had the power to do so, ordered us to make the demand at this time. We make this demand, gentlemen, open and Joint Conference with Operators 107 above board. We want to be plain with you, so that there may be no misunderstanding. We intend to enforce the eight hours by refusing to work longer. But with all this, we want the same good feeling that has always existed since the forma- tion of this inter-state agreement to continue. The eight-hour day is destined soon to sweep the world. It is no sentiment, but a plain business proposition, and there can be no disad- vantage to the operators if they will but adapt their business to the new system. In a prolonged discussion on the adoption of the eight- hour work; day, the miners took the position that all other questions were secondary in effect, including a joint scale of prices for the ensuing year. The miners’ advocates for the shorter workday included Master Workman or President John B. Rae, Worthy Foreman or Vice-President P. H. Penna, Secretary Patrick McBryde, W. E. Farms, George Scott, J. P. Jones and others, all taking the position that a less number of hours in the mines would increase efficiency and enable miners to produce a greater quantity of coal proportionately than under the long hours’ rule, and that as a result no loss would be sustained by the operators in putting into practice the eight-hour day. Operators F. L. Robbins, W. P. Rend, J. Morton Hall, H. L. Chapman, David Patterson, Alexander Patterson, Oscar Townsend and J. S. Morton, in opposing the miners’ proposi- tion, declared “that heretofore they had only been called upon to consider wages”; “that to split on this question the inter- state agreement is at an end” ; “that the most prosperous man is the one who works ten hours a day” ; “that idleness is pro- ductive of evil,” etc. The operators’ line of arguments sometimes created amusement on the part of miners’ delegates, but after three days’ discussion the question became more serious, resulting as follows : When the convention re-assembled Thursday afternoon. Secretary Robbins, of the committee on hours of labor, arose and said : “The operators authorize me to say that the committee was unable to come to any agreement.” Mr. Chapman, an operator, moved that the report be received and adopted and that the committee be discharged. The motion was unanimously adopted. 108 United Mine Workers of America President Rae, of the U. M. W. of A., said: “It has been suggested to me that I make a brief statement as to the posi- tion the miners occupy on the statements and propositions upon which they have based their demands. Questions were put to us as to whether eight hours’ work meant ten hours’ pay. We stated in the committee that we were not authorized to answer, as that was a matter for the wage conference. We, the miners, decided positively that eight hours should consti- tute a day’s work for the day and night men alike.” Mr. Morton, the Ohio operator, as chairman of the com- mittee, replied as follows: “We, representing the operators, felt that we could not recognize the position or propositions of the miners, and consequently I move that, as we have nothing to do, we adjourn sine die.” The Miners’ Dema/nds. When the inter-state meeting adjourned sine die the miners’ convention reconvened. The delegates were of the opinion that the time was past for talking, and, with the in- domitable conviction that their cause is just, considered plans to defend and uphold their principles against the power of the operators. The following resolutions were unanimously adopted : Resolved, That the miners of the competitive fields demand an advance for pick mining equivalent to an advance of 10 cents per ton in the Hocking field, on a basis of an eight-hour working day. Resolved, That no place shall resume operations until all have received the advance, or until ordered by the National Executive Board. The convention then adjourned. There was an understanding that the National executive Board will form a council, consisting of the president of each district, to assist them in conducting the eight-hour campaign. District 17 Convention, April, 1891 109 FIRST ANNUAL CONVENTION OF DISTRICT NO. 17, U. M. W OF A., AT CHARLESTON, W. VA., APRIL 14, 15, 1891. The convention was called to order Tuesday, at 1 p. m., by President M. F. Moran. The following committee on cre- dentials was appointed: Robert Rodocker, Moundsville; M. L. Miller, Keeney Creek; W. F. Ashbury, Raymond City; James Quillian, Coal Valley. The committee reported the following delegates entitled to seats in the convention: M. F. Moran, Wheeling; H. M. Smith, Pocahontas; Henry Stephenson, C. H. Jones, Coal- burg; Edward Breakwell, Paint Creek; Patrick McGuicken, Plymouth; George Keeney, Dry Branch; Thomas Griffiths, Cedar Grove; William Sneede, Kellys Creek; Wm. Crow, Central; A. J. Moore, Catawba; Samuel C. Harliss, Hand- ley; C. C. Woods, J. L. Edmonds, Coal Valley; James A. Ho- gan, James Quillan, Union Mines; J. D. Thomas, Black Dia- mond; Robert Rodocker, Moundsville; Wm. Sarge, Isadore Huch, Wheeling; A. Wiseman, East Bank; M. L. Miller, Nut- talburg; W. F. Asbury, Raymond City; James Leonard, Poca; W. D. Kissinger, Rivesville ; Patrick F. McAuley, Wini- frede Mines. The report of the committee was received and the com- mittee continued. The president appointed the following committees : Rules and order of business — James Leonard, S. C. Har- liss, Thomas Griffiths, J. L. Edmonds, William Sarge. Resolutions — William Sneede, James A. Hogan, W. F. Asbury, George Keeney. Constitution — Thomas Griffiths, H. M. Smith, Isadore Huch, Patrick McGuickin. Grievances — A. J. Moore, Edward Breakwell, J. D. Thomas. Auditing — C. H. Jones, William Kissinger, C. C. Woods, A. Wiseman. The committee on rules and order of business recom- mended the following: First — That the hour of convening shall be 8:30 o’clock a. m., with recess from 12 m. to 1 p. m., reconvening at 110 United Mine Workers of America 1 p. m., and adjourning at 5:30 p. m. That in all matters of parliamentary dispute, Cushing’s Manual shall be the guide. President Moran made a verbal report of the condition of the District, and the report was accepted. Vice-President H. M. Smith also made a verbal report. The Secretary- Treasurer’s report was as follows: Fellow Craftsmen : In accordance with constitutional pro- visions, I hereby submit my first annual report of moneys received and disbursed during the year beginning April 1, 1890, and ending March 30, 1891. Those of you who were present at the organization of this District, are well aware that I positively refused to be a can- didate for this office, yet scarcely had the representatives ar- rived at their respective homes before there was dissatisfac- tion between the officers then elected to serve you during the present term. Your president will, I presume, inform you why he declared the office of secretary-treasurer vacant, and se- lected your humble servant to fill the unexpired term. Knowing the deplorable condition of affairs prevailing in our district, I reluctantly took charge of the office, and at once began cor- respondence with the locals, and in a short time the per capita tax came to the office when due. It is, therefore, with a sense of relief, that I now have the privilege of returning to you the office which was so unexpectedly committed to my charge, be- lieving that you will agree with me, that I have discharged the duties to the best of my ability, with the resources at my command. Thanking your worthy president for the honor bestowed, I am Very respectfully, Henry Stephenson, Secretary-Treasurer. FINANCIAL REPORT — INCOME. Receipts from March, 1S90, to November, 1890. From Robert Watchorn $105.00 Locals to President Moran 242.56 Locals to Secretary-Treasurer 152.50 Total $500.06 EXPENDITTTRES. Paid to President Moran .$467.76 Henry Stephenson 17.28 485.04 Cash on hand November 1, 1890 $ 15.02 District 17 Convention, April, 1891 111 INCOME. < Cash on hand November 1, 1890 $ 15.02 Receipts for November, 1890 82.95 December, 1890 76.62 January, 1891 99.30 February, 1891 78.20 March, 1891 134.50 Total $486.59 EXPENDITURES. M. F. Moran, President $375.22 P. F. McAuley, M. E. B 2.30 H. Stephenson, Secretary-Treasurer 95.07 Patrick McBryde, Seal 4.00 J. L. Edmonds 10.00 Total $486.59 Receipts on Appeal, Casli $ 48.21 Paid William Prescott, Elm Grove $ 12.00 Paid J. H. Ritter, Monongah 36.00 Postage .21 Total $ 48.21 The report was received and referred to the proper com- mittee. The report of auditing committee was as follows: We, your committee being appointed to audit the books of the secretary-treasurer, Henry Stephenson, beg leave to report that we have examined the accounts and find the report cor- rect in every particular. A special committee of four was appointed to draft suit- able resolutions in regard to the killing of brother miners in the coke region. The chair appointed the following commit- tee : James Leonard, J. L. Edmonds, Thomas Griffiths and H. M. Smith. The committee submitted the following resolutions, which were adopted and a copy ordered sent to Secretary Parker, of District No. 4, Pennsylvania: It is with profound regret we have learned of the awful death of our brethren at Morewood, in the coke regions of Pennsylvania, who were unmercifully shot to death by mali- cious deputies. Therefore, be it Resolved, That we, the officers and members of District 17, in convention assembled, condemn the action of said deputies as outrageous in the extreme and outside the pale of any law. 112 United Mine Workers of America either human or Divine, and merits the condemnation of all law-abiding citizens of this great Republic.. Resolved, That we hereby pledge our moral and financial aid to bring the perpetrators of the crime to justice. Resolved, That this convention do hereby tender to the bereaved families and friends of the deceased brothers our heartfelt sympathy, hoping that they will trust in God to sus- tain them in their bereavement and loss. The committee on constitution reported amendments as they now appear in the constitution. Their report was re- ceived and adopted. The chair appointed the following committee on scale prices: Patrick McGuicken, William Sneede, Robert Ro- docker, H. M. Smith, M. L. Miles, and requested the repre- sentatives to state to the convention the condition of affairs at their respective mines. After all had been heard, the convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY’S SESSIONS. The convention was called to order Wednesday morning. The committee on resolutions reported the following, which were adopted: Resolved, That all union men be requested not to sign any petition for the appointment of any person to any state or county office except said person be a union man. Resolved, That the president of this district be requested to at once call a mass meeting at Raymond City, and if possible have one of the national officers address the meet- ing. Resolved, By the miners of Raymond City that we tender our sincere thanks to the United Mine Workers assembled in national convention, at Columbus, in pledging to us their moral and fianancial support in defense of our just rights. The convention took a recess for one hour to give the com- mittees time to complete their reports. At the close of the recess the committee on scale reported prices per net ton run of mine as follows : Wheeling district, 50 cents; Fairmont district, 50 cents; Flat Top district, 43i/o cents; New River district, 50 cents; Coal Valley (gas), 50 cents; Cannelton, 90 cents; Kanawha district, 60 cents, National Eight-Hour Advice 113 The report was received and adopted. At the afternoon session, the following telegram was read : Fall Mills, Va., April 15,1891. M. F. Moran, Charleston, W. Va. : Operators are fixing a scheme to offset the Screen Law. Come at once. Wm. Warburton. The telegram was received and filed. The chair appointed a special committee on scale for day laborers as follows: Patrick McGuicken, Robert Rodocker, Wm. Crow. The following resolution was presented and adopted : Resolved, That the president and secretary ignore all ap- peals for their services from locals which are not square on the district secretary-treasurer’s books. Signed by C. E. Woods, Wm. Kissinger and C. H. Jones. L. A. 1279, Coal Valley, W. Va., having been, through Brother James Miskell, who was instrumental in securing the passage of important measures at the late session of the legislature, at a heavy expense, the convention, therefore, decided to ask all locals to forward to the district secretary ^ at least $1 each, to be forwarded to Local Association 1279, to partially reimburse them for the heavy outlay entailed. The committee on day scale reported the following: That day labor now receiving less than $1.75 per day be given an advance of 15 cents per day and drivers 15 cents per day over present prices. P. McGuicken, William Crow and Robert Rodocker. committee. The report was adopted. The following indorsements and thanks were adopted: To the United Mine Workers of District No. 1-7, Greeting: We, the representatives in convention assembled, do most heartily endorse the action of Raymond City and Cambers mines on Moores creek in their struggle for their just rights, and appeal to local unions and assemblies requesting them to aid our brothers financially, and We, hereby return thanks to Capital City Assembly No. 6194 for the use of their hall during our stay in the city. It was decided that when the secretary should do any field work he should receive the same pay as a member of executive board. 114 United Mine Workers of America The convention decided to vote for three members of the executive board, the candidates receiving the highest number of votes to be declared elected. The following officers were elected by acclamation : President or master workman, M. F. Moran; vice-presi- dent or worthy foreman, John L. Edmunds; secretary-treas- urer, Henry Stephenson. Executive Board : Thomas Burdett, Maybeury ; Edward Nangle, Moundsville; Thomas Farry, Coalburg. Hon. G. P. Simpson, attorney of Raymond city miners, made his appearance and was introduced by President Moran to the convention. Mr. Simpson addressed the convention, giving a review of the eviction cases now pending before the courts of West Virginia against Raymond City miners. The convention extended a vote of thanks to Messrs. G. P. Simpson and J. B. Manasher for their efforts in our behalf, and then adjourned to meet in Charleston on the second Tues- day in April, 1892. OFFICIAL CIRCULAR ON EIGHT-HOUR WORKDAY. Columbus, Ohio, April 17, 1891. To the Miners and Mine Laborers of the United States and Territories, Fellow- Workers, Greeting: F or years the miners of the country have been urging upon their leaders the necessity of taking steps to have the eight- hour workday established. The division that existed in our ranks previous to 1890 made impossible any forward move- ment in that direction. With the birth of the United Mine Workers came the cry for a shorter working day. The exist- ence of contracts with operators who had, since the inception of the joint movement, worked harmoniously with their work- men; together with the fact that the American Federation of Labor had named the Brotherhood of Carpenters as the first trade to take the initiatory steps to inaugurate the march for shorter hours, rendered it necessary for your executive board to postpone the date for putting the eight-hour day into practice for one year. The convention of the American Federation of Labor, held in Detroit last December, responsive to your demands, and at the request of your delegates, named the miners as the trade to move for the shorter working day on May 1, 1891. National Eight-Hour Advice 115 The general assembly of the Knights of Labor, at its con- vention at Atlanta, pledged itself to render every assistance to the trade named by the Federation to make the eight-hour fight. This pledge of assistance from the Knights of Labor was emphasized by the declaration of Brother Wright, of the General Executive Board, at our convention held in this city, February 10. He said : ‘T stand here to assure you that the Knights of Labor are with your organization in all its under- takings.” Having secured the sanction of the two large bodies to which we are affiliated, the convention instructed the Na- tional Executive Board to take such steps as they deemed best to inaugurate the eight-hour working day on May 1. True to the conservative prinicples of the organization the executive board endeavored to have the change of hours made with as little friction as possible, and in a manner that would command the least opposition from the operators. At the late convention of operators and miners, held in the city of Pittsburg, the miners sought, by making every concession consistent with honor to secure an agreement with the oper- ators^ of Ohio and Western Pennsylvania, to have the eight- hour working day established in the districts named. This was done because the operators had been working in harmony with their workmen for the last five years, and had a right to more consideration at our hands than those who have at all times been hostile to our movements. The adjournment of the convention sine die leaves us without any contract to hamper our movements, and for the first time the miners are free to enter into a struggle on behalf of a prinicple that is held by many to be paramount to all other questions. As a strike of the miners for an eight-hour day will neces- sarily force a stoppage of works in all industries connected therewith, causing idleness to workmen and entailing an in- calculable loss to the business interests of the country, we feel the gravity of the situation to be such as to require at our hands a statement as to the justness of our demands. We might, in a lengthy argument, go into the production of coal in the various states, showing the number of hours necessary to produce sufficient to meet the requirements of the trade, but one example will suffice. We take the following extract from the advance sheets of the report of the Commis- sioner of Labor for the State of Ohio. As the returns are taken from the reports made out by the operators we do not think their authenticity will be questioned. The returns show the average number of tons per miner is 592. The number of days worked, 201. At no time during the past ten years have miners and operators enjoyed a more prosperous year and it may well be said that the coal trade. 116 United Mine Workers of America so far as it relates to Ohio, experienced a genuine boom from May 1, 1889, to May 1, 1890. A careful examination of the figures will show that in a boom year the miners were idle 112 days. As it is well known that the idle time was not confined to the winter months the statement effectually an- swers the operators’ claims that they are unable to grant the eight-hour day, owing to the fact that they ship most of their coal by lake during a few months of the year. Again, the entire coal consumed this “prosperous” year could have been produced by the miners working only eight hours on the days the mines were actually in operation. The results obtained from these returns will apply with very little alteration to every coal-producing state in the Union. When the coal opera- tors, therefore object to an eight-hour working day they simply desire to stop the wheels of progress, and not that they have any substantial reason for doing so. The failure of the miners and operators of Ohio and Pennsylvania to agree make possible a national movement for the establishment of the eight-hour day. While the organiza- tion is opposed to strike unless as a last resort, at the present time we see no way to avoid the conflict. In calling on you, the miners and mine laborers of the country, to lay down your picks and demand an eight-hour working day on May 1, we but carry out your instructions. If you are faithful to the pledges given, the conflict will be decisive and victory will perch on your banner with the establishment of an eight-hour working day. An era of peace and prosperity will dawn on the craft, beneficial alike to employer and employed. It may be that some are inclined to doubt the wisdom of incorporating the demand for an advance price in mining rates for the reason that it might tend to cripple the possibilities of obtaining the short workday. We have always held that it is inimical to our interests to make demands that would not stand the crucial test of examination. From the most reliable source (the Black Diamond and Coal Trade) the selling price of coal increased 15 to 20 cents per ton over that of 1889. There was also an increased volume of the coal business throughout the United States. And now, fellow-craftsmen, for years we have been buoyed with the promises of a national movement; time and again have our hopes been shattered by disappointment, stayed be- cause of the inopportuneness of the occasion. We have de- ferred and delayed until now it is absolutely necessary that we stand by each other. Events have demonstrated the impro- priety of sectional strikes and furnish arguments at once eloquent and convincing that no matter where located, our interests are identical and must be protected as such. While District 12 Convention, April, 1891 117 we deplore the pending and apparently inevitable crisis that threatens to prostrate the business interests of the land, we have the consolation of knowing that it is none of our seek- ing. We have made all reasonable concessions in the interest of peace and harmony. J. B. Rae, President, John P. Jones, Patrick McBryde, John Nugent, Committee. CHAPTER V. ILLINOIS MINERS’ CONVENTION, 1891. The mine workers of district 12 met in convention at Springfield, 111., on Thursday, April 23, 1891. The sessions were held in the State House. District President M. J. Goings was in the chair and Secretary Eben Howells was at his post. There was a very full representation from all parts of the state, the southern fields being especially well represented. The delegates were: Alex. Morton, Braceville; William Cun- ningham, Central City; Edward McGlennon, John McGurk, George S. Davis, Springfield; Mike Salmon, Colfax; John E. Riley, Braidwood ; Charles Carroll, Sorrenton ; J. R. Edwards, Sparta; R. Cook, Barclay; James Baker, William Gardner, LaSalle; H. Hill, Beard’s Shaft; J. S. Eubanks, Taylorville; M. P. Morris, Kingston Mines; W. C. Parsons, Spalding; Stephen Bowen, St. Davids; Samuel Johnson, Oglesby; Joseph Manuel, Grape Creek; Daniel McBryde, John Miller, Spring Valley; William Hood, Dawson; John Jasper, DuQuoin; John Patton, Gardner; G. T. Scott, Centralia; James McBurney, Edinburg; Samuel Skelton, Coal City; William Tinman, Dia- mond; J. L. Parsons, Riverton; Isaac G. Clark, Lincoln; Jacob Graham, Potstown and Edwards; James Johnson, Peoria; George W. Murray, Middlegrove ; Eugene Zeller, Athens ; Rob- ert Baxter, Seatonville. When the reports of delegates were received they were found to be unanimous in favor of the eight-hour day, to make 118 United Mine Workers of America the demand May 1, and for the same scale of prices now in existence. The following committees were appointed : Legislation — Alex. Morton, Samuel Johnson, J. C. Parsons, William Gardner, George L. Scott, George W. Murray. Resolutions — William Tinman, Ed McGlennon, John Jas- per, Stephen Bowen, James Baker, J. Riley, Joseph Manuel. D. McBride. Scale — Samuel Skelton, J. R. Edwards, R. Cook, John Miller, Jacob Graham, John Patton. The following was adopted unanimously : Whereas, The importance and advantage of the Bureau of Labor Statistics as a department in our State Government is a fact self-evident to all students of the state’s industrial resources, and Whereas, The number of printed volumes of the labor re- ports are decidedly inadequate for the demands for the same, and Whereas, Hon. Edmund O’Connell has introduced a bill in the House of the Thirty-seventh General Assembly, num- bered 580, and which provides for an increase in the volume of labor reports from 3,500 to 5,000, and therefore increase the opportunities of the people for educated industrial thought; therefore be it Resolved, That we cheerfully indorse said bill and urge upon our own legislative committee to work to the verj^ best of their ability for the passage of such measure at the earliest possible moment. The committee on resolutions presented the following, which were adopted : Whereas, The great demand of wage workers who are anxious for just share in the advantages of improved methods of production is that calling for a reduction in the hours of labor; and Whereas, It has been decided upon that the miners of the United States shall be supported in their demands for an eight-hour day and that said working time shall be made uniform; and, V/hereas, The coal mining industry is one complicated and much aggravated by reason of numerous inequalities and therefore requiring thought and conservatism in all proposed systems and changes ; therefore, be it District 12 Convention, 1891 119 Resolved, That we shall strive to the best of our ability to secure the eight-hour day and that such demand be pre- sented to our employers with prices to be made relatively fair with the different important coal fields of our state and the general district of which we are a part. That we are in favor of an amicable adjustment of our differences with our employers as against strikes and trust that our interests may be harmonized to the adoption of the eight-hour workday. That the matter of prices as applying to Southern Illinois, be referred in its entirety to the National Executive Board as a subject proper for them to consider and adjust. That in the event of serious differences occurring between operators and miners in this state upon the questions of hours and prices, we are in favor of referring the same to a joint board of arbitration and conciliation to be mutually agreed upon, that troubles or suspension of work may be averted. Whereas, The 37th General Assembly have enacted into a law a weekly pay bill, and Whereas, We believe this creditable action entirely due to the persistent efforts of our friends and others favorable to labor legislation ; therefore, be it Resolved, That the heartfelt thanks of this convention are extended to the gentlemen whose industry secured its passage and to his excellency, the governor, for indorsing the same by his signature. We hope the efforts of our friends in the House and Senate will be equally successful in securing the passage of the gross-weight bill, the anti-truck bill, the bill to create an additional inspection district, the bill to provide for the examination of mine bosses and managers, together with such other pending legislation as will protect life and improve the condition of our craftsmen. Whereas, An effort is being made to induce miners to sign contracts for a year with a proviso for monthly pays con- trary to the law enacted upon that subject; therefore be it Resolved, That no miner sign a contract with a provision in it waiving the weekly pay law. By invitation. Senator Caldwell addressed the miners on the subject of the gross-weight bill, and expressed himself in favor of any legislation that would be just to the miners. The committee will, on consultation, inform him just what legislation the miners desire on the subject. A vote of thanks was tendered him and other legislators who have supported the labor bills. 120 United Mine Workers of America Considerable correspondence that the secretary had had with the operators was read, some of them refusing to attend another joint meeting. The convention met on Friday at 10 o’clock. There were only a few small operators present and an adjournment was taken to 2 p. m. to await the arrival of other operators, but none appeared. A resolution was adopted to stand by the action of the Pittsburg convention for eight hours and an ad- vance of 10 cents, and left the matter of a suspension on May 1 to the discretion of the National Executive Board. The district executive board then met the operators on the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy railroad and effected a satis- factory settlement of wages for day men. The terms are ; Drillers and Blasters $2.50 Powder Chargers 2.25 Loaders 2.00 These terms will apply to eight hours if the eight-hour day becomes universal. Wages of other day men remain the same. ILLINOIS WEEKLY PAY LAW. Notwithstanding the vigorous protest of the operators, the legislature of Illinois passed the weekly pay bill. Only one member of the house voted against it. The following is the full text of the law: An act to provide for the weekly payment of wages by corporations : Section 1. Be it enacted by the people of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly: That every manufacturing, mining, quarrying, lumbering, mercantile, street, electric and elevated railway, steamboat, telegraph, telephone, and municipal corporation, and every incorporated express company and water company, shall pay weekly each and every employe engaged in business, the wages earned by such employe to within six days of the date of such payment. Provided, however, that if at any time of payment any em- ploye shall be absent from his regular place of labor he shall be entitled to said payment at any time thereafter upon de- mand. Sec. 2.* Any corporation violating any of the provisions of this act shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding $50 and not less than $10 for each violation, to be paid to the people Illinois Weekly Pay Law 121 of the state and which may be recovered in a civil action, pro- vided an action for such violation is commenced within thirty days from the date thereof; any person may bring an action in the name of the people of the state as plaintiff against any corporation which neglects to comply with the provisions of this act for a period of two weeks after having been notified in writing by such person that such action will be brought. On the trial of such action such corporation shall not be allowed to set up any defense for a failure to pay weekly any employe engaged in its business the wages earned by such employe to within six days of the date of such payment, other than a valid assignment of such wages, or a valid set-off against the same, or the absence of such employe from his regular place of labor at the time of payment, or an actual tender to such employe at the time of payment of the wages so earned by him, or a breach of contract by such employe or a denial of the employment. No assignment of future wages payable weekly under the provisions of this act shall be valid if made to the corporation from whom such wages are to become due, or to any person on behalf of such corporation, or if made or procured to be made to any person for the pur- pose of relieving such corporation from the obligations to pay weekly under the provisions of this act. Nor shall any of said corporations require any agreement from any employe to accept wages at any other periods than as provided in Sec- tion 1 of this act, as a condition of employment. Sec. 3. The penalties herein provided may be recovered in any court having civil jurisdiction by such in the name of the person bringing the same. Passed by Thirty-seventh General Assembly, 1891. OUR ORGANIZATION. EXCERPTS OF THOUGHTS EXPRESSED BY PRESIDENT W. S. SCOTT, IN THE UNITED MINE WORKERS’ JOURNAL, APRIL 23, 1891. After a ten days’ trip among the mining camps of Iowa, I am convinced of the necessity of organization among the miners, writes W. S. Scott, president of District 13, of the U. M. W. of A. I am more than ever of the opinion that the men who go down into the bowels of the earth to engage in the arduous work of coal mining do not receive a fair and just compensation for their labor. , Organizations, or unions, are for the benefit of those who are dissatisfied with the conditions under which they exist. Union of crafts, or trades, is for the purpose of benefiting those who unite or come together. If the coal miners of Iowa are rendering labor for which they do not receive just com- 122 United Mine Workers of America pensation, then they should unite or organize for the purpose of securing a wage that will compensate them for the work they perform. Whenever any craft or trade wish to secure any benefit either through legislation or by a concession on the part of those who employ them, they must first unite their strength by systematic organization and then perfect their plans of procedure before they can hope or expect to accomplish any good results. If the miners of Iowa expect to secure any benefits for themselves, the sooner they organize just that much sooner will they be benefited. Our organization declares in unmis- takable terms for an eight-hour day for all miners and mine laborers. We firmly believe that eight consecutive hours is long enough for a miner to work at any one time in order to secure a living for himself and family. We believe there is nothing we stand so much in need of as education upon the great questions that affect capital and labor. And so believ- ing, we favor a reduction of hours from ten to eight for a day’s work, thereby adding two hours for study each day. I believe there never was a time in the history of our coun- try when it was so easy for the laboring people to organize into their respective trade unions as now. All over the coal fields of Iowa the men are rallying to the cause of organization. Everywhere I have held meetings the men have organized without a single exception. Others are inquiring after the objects of our order and how we purpose to benefit the laboring men. We purpose to benefit them by securing a shorter day’s work, by having semi-monthly pay- ments of wages, by securing better ventilation, by having all coal weighed before screening, by abolishing the truck stores and by better education among the miners, and by better legislation generally. Does that suit you, brother miner? If so, then your place is in the organization. The noble sentiments quoted express the well matured thoughts of a soul full of zeal for the reformation of Mine Workers everywhere. TO THE MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. REASONS GIVEN FOR DEFERRING THE MOVEMENT FOR EIGHT HOURS. A meeting of the National Executive Board and Presidents of Districts 2, A, 4, 5, 6, 12, and the Secretary of 17, was held at the national office, Columbus, Ohio, April 25 and 27, 1891. Eight-Hour Deferment Explained 123 President Rae, in opening the meeting, stated the reason they were called together was that at the convention in Pittsburg the Executive Board pledged themselves if they required any counsel in regard to the eight-hour movement, to call in the presidents of the several districts, as they all knew the move was to be a national one. In several parts of the country inde- pendent action was taken, and West Virginia miners, who are active competitors with their brothers in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, are not prepared to move, and have so decided in convention. At New Straitsville, Ohio, the miners have seen fit to enter into an agreement with their employers to work at present prices and hours for the next year. This action has a demoralizing effect on many places in the Hock- ing Valley, and while the men would obey an order to quit work, the board thought it right to call in the presidents, that the true situation would be known, and the organization en- abled to act in the best interests of the miners of the country. President McLaughlin reported that while the organized men on the Monongahela would be willing to move, he did not think the unorganized would, as they considered they were not a part of the competitive field. The railroad miners were still in favor of an advance of 10 cents and an eight-hour working day. He thought it more than probable that the miners of the railroad mines would strike on May 1 for the advance. President White stated that with the exception of one place the miners of District 2 would move for an eight-hour day if so ordered. President Paisley said the men of District A were prac- tically unanimous in favor of eight hours. Vice-President Nugent said the action of New Straitsville miners had practically tied their hands in Ohio. Reports from other places showed that the miners were opposed to taking action on the eight hours at the present time. Secretary Stephenson said West Virginia was against tak- ing action at the present time, as the organization was not strong enough to control the men. On that account he was opposed to a national movement at present. 124 United Mine Workers of America President Webb reported that Kentucky and Tennessee had not many men organized. Those that were, had signed an agreement for one year, the operators agreeing to give the eight hours when the others were in line. President Wilson said there was not one local in his dis- trict in favor of the movement. He read a letter from Reynoldsville, showing the miners opposed to the movement until they had redressed other grievances. President Wise said they all knew the coke region was on strike. He did not desire to hamper any district, but wanted the fight in the coke regions to be won if possible. A general discussion was entered into, but owing to the absence of the presidents of Indiana and Illinois, definite action was postponed until Monday morning, telegrams being sent to those gentlemen to come to Columbus. MONDAY MORNING SESSION. The meeting reconvened Monday morning. President Go- ings, of Illinois, was present, and reported that the convention held last week was the most representative ever held in the state, the southern part being much better represented than heretofore. Staunton, Mount Olive, Connellsville and Pana had no delegates present, these being the places that supplied the markets of Chicago and the Northwest during the strike of miners of Northern Illinois in 1889. President Goings being informed of the exact condition of affairs, declared him- self opposed to a national movement at this time. It was moved and seconded that the eight-hour movement be deferred for the time being and that the time for action be left in the hands of the National Executive Board and the presidents of the various districts and that a committee be appointed to draft an address to the miners of the countiy, stating the reasons why action was deferred. On a yea and nay vote, the following voted yea: J. P. Jones, W. C. Pearce, W. B. Wilson, P. Wise, John Kane, J. Nugent, James White, P. McBryde, M. J. Goings, J. B. Rae, J. Paisley, W. C. Webb, and H. McLaughlin. There being no opposition, the motion was declared unani- mously carried. Eight-Hour Deferment Explained 125 President Rae appointed the following brothers to draft a circular to the miners of the country: W. B. Wilson, John Kane, J. P. Jones, M. J. Goings, and Hugh McLaughlin. OFFICIAL CIRCULAR. Columbus, Ohio, April 27, 1891. To the United Mine Workers of America, Greeting: Fellow Miners — From the time that mining became an industry of importance within the boundary of the United States of America, the question of shortening the hours of labor has exercised the minds of the thinking men of our trade. Circumstances, brought about by the exceptionally pecu- liar position of our industry, both with regard to geographical location and diversity of thought and opinion entertained by the divers classes of people seeking employment within our trade, rendered it impossible to unite the miners of the coun- try in one solid phalanx for any given object of reform. But by the natural law of evolution and by a practice and exercise of manly patience and by a suppression of personal prejudice on the part of the miners of the country during the past two years, we had arrived at the state in organization at our last annual convention, when every friend of the miners through- out the whole land believed that the great reform, viz., eight hours, was within our easy grasp, and steps were taken by resolution and otherwise to inaugurate the system. Since that time the world has been startled by one of the most awe-inspiring strikes in the annals of our trade. The coke workers of the Connellsville region for the past twelve weeks have been the participants in a battle waged by organ- ized capital against organized labor, which can only be termed the gory precursor of the seemingly inevitable strife between the two forces in a general and more comprehensive manner. While the men, women and children of this region have been the victims of the sheriff’s writs and his deputies’ Winches- ters, and while they are now threatened with the still* more cowardly and still more unscrupulous methods of the das- tardly Pinkertons, it has been the duty of the United Mine Workers to render to those people all the financial assistance possible and compatible with the laws of our organization. Therefore, it is unnnecessary that we should say that the funds which under other circumstances would have been avail- able for our purpose on the 1st of May have been very ma- terially reduced. In a word, the time, attention and finances of our organization have been diverted to a channel which at 126 United Mine Workers of America the time of our annual convention was almost wholly unex- pected. When the late Pittsburg convention was held, it was ordered there, that if necessary to review the situation pre- vious to the first of May, the District presidents should be called together with the National Executive Board, to consult as to the proper course to be adopted, and we now learn that there has been, within the competitive district, a defection on the part of the disorganized miners of various sections ; and as the custodians of the interests of the people who have placed us in the positions which we occupy, we positively, though reluctantly, refuse with our eyes open and with a full and complete knowledge of the situation, to jeopardize those inter- ests, and will not be responsible for the accompanying suffer- ings and sacrifices of a strike to our constituents and their families. Seeing, as we do, the above mentioned situation, and knowing as we do that thousands of vampires and vul- tures (for that is their proper name) are waiting now for the first of May, so that they may feed, as it were, on the sacrifices of the organized miners of the country, we appreciate fully the boldness of this step, we realize the disappointment to thousands of our friends, but realizing that discretion is the better part of valor and that the good general, rather than lead his army headlong to disaster, prefers to make an honor- able retreat, we take the latter course, and if it can be called a retreat, we prefer it rather than to have the maledictions of our people after they have suffered for keeping back the truth from them, and have determined at the present time to con- tinue the fight in the coke region, with all our might and vigor. We have, therefore, passed the following resolution and sub- mit it to you with all candor, humility and respect : Resolved, That the eight-hour movement be deferred for the time being, and that the time for action be left in the hands of the National Executive Board and the presidents of the various districts. J. P. Jones, W. B. Wilson, John Kane, James White, M. J. Goings, J. Paisley, W. C. Pearce, P. Wise, J. Nugent, P. McBryde, W. C. Webb, J. B. Rae, H. McLaughlin. District 6 Special Convention 127 CHAPTER VI. OHIO MINERS’ SPECIAL CONVENTION, APRIL 30, 1891. A special convention of District 6, United Mine Workers of America, was held in Druid Hall, Columbus, Ohio, April 30, 1891. The convention was called to order Thursday at 10 a. m., by President John P. Jones, who appointed the fol- lowing committee on credentials: Morgan Lewis, Buchtel; John Thomas, Navarre; C. L. Kimes, Glen Roy; C. H. Smith, Flushing, and John Thorp, Washington ville. A recess was taken to 1 :30 p. m. At the afternoon session, the committee on credentials reported the following delegates entitled to seats: Robert Burden, William Gillen, J. H. Spence, James Levering, I. N. Tucker, James Doran, William Melvin, Wellston; C. J. Barnes, J. E. Smith, Byesville; Herman Shusser, East Greenville; Joseph Curran, Dillonvale and Long Run; Daniel Connor, Barnhill; J. W. Elkins, J. C. Duncan, William Etheridge, Mark Gulliver, W. L. Turner, Joshua Thomas, Coalton; James Riley, Berdler; Alex. Johnson, Fred Weymuller, Isaac Coy, J. Nugent, Nelsonville ; George Hopkins, Poland ; Thomas J. Miller, Massillon; J. W. France, Furnace Mine; John 0. Mar- tin, Jackson ; Eugene Taiclet, John E. Morgan, Charles Graf- ton, C. L. Kimes, Thomas Cole, Robert Rice, Edward James, Glen Roy; David Ayers, Johnson mine; Phil Kinkade, Mur- ray City; Michael Jackson, Trail Run; Andrew Calvin, Den- nison; Thomas Spink, Wadsworth; W. H. Watkins, Carbon- dale; E. S. Brown, John A. Peddicord, Bellaire; L. D. Shields, Brashears; L. M. Redfern, Kittanning; L. A. Scott, Dell Roy; Joseph Smart, Orbiston; John Phillipson, Steubenville; Ed Thomas, Carbon Hill; Levi Davis, Guard Cady, Clinton; John Thomas, Navarre; D. J. Jones, J. E. Jenkins, Shawnee; James Patterson, John Allan, Isaac Jones, Glouster; John Whalen, Sherrodsville ; Peter Wright, Massillon City; W. E. Layne, Joseph Thorp, Washingtonville ; Morgan Lewis, Buch- tel; J. D. Gillan, Glen Eben; Benjamin Booth, C. & H. V. 128 United Mine Workers of America mine; Ira Ault, Yorkville; George Wilson, Dillon; C. H. Smith, Flushing; Thomas McGoff, Peter Gibson, W. C. Pearce, Corning; Michael Collins, R. L. Davis, Rendville; Joseph Price, C. C. Cheney, Franklin Station; C. B. Knox, S. A. Wangler, Center Valley mine; Charles Williams, W. E. Farmes, John A. Wangler, Franklin mine; Martin Huger, Summer mine; W. B. Gallaher, Michael Ratchford, J. P. Jones, North Lawrence; William Seidel, Monday; Daniel Baird, Cameron Miller, Kellar shaft; H. T. Heltizel, Negley; W. E. Applegarth, William Turner, Cambridge; James 0. Donald, Nimisilla; Thomas Simester, Somerdale; D. Barcley, Hollister. On motion of Alex. Johnson, the report of the committee on credentials was adopted. The chair then appointed the following committees : Order of Business — Michael Collins, C. C. Cheney, J. E. Jenkins, Cameron Miller, John Peddicord. Committee on Resolutions — Mark Gulliver, D. Barcley, William Farms, Alex. Johnson, Michael Ratchford. PRESIDENT JONES’ ADDRESS. President Jones then took the floor and stated the circum- stances which led to the calling of the convention. He said: “Some of you were not prepared for this step, and as a con- sequence you have come, some without instructions, others with what instructions they have received from meetings that had no time to discuss the situation, no time to consider the new elements that have arisen and demand attention. Hence I feel it my duty to lay the matter before you as I see it.” The president then reviewed the whole situation, finishing by an eloquent appeal to the delegates to act in such a manner as would best subserve the interests and promote the welfare of the thousands of miners and their families throughout Ohio. Vice-President Nugent expressed his views, counseling moderation, conservatism and good judgment. Never before, he said, had a condition of this kind confronted the miners, and hence there was no precedent to guide them. The report of committee on order of business was as fol- lows : First, that we hear opinions of delegates on the situa- tion as stated by President Jones in his address to the conven- District 6 Special Convention 129 tion; second, that each delegate be allowed five minutes to speak, and no delegate be allowed to speak twice until all have been heard on the question under discussion; third, the con- sideration of the machine question; fourth, miscellaneous business. On motion, the report was adopted. The convention then went into executive session. Hon. John McBride being called upon, responded in his usual pleasing and instructive way, discussing the coal trade in all its bearings, the strike in the coke fields and the action of the National Executive Board in deferring the fight for eight hours. He said the fight in the coke fields made this step imperative, and he congratulated the board on the wisdom dis- played. He then made a special plea for the men in the coke fields, saying it was a fight of capital against organization and its principles, and he hoped the men would be successful. On motion, the roll was called and each delegate gave his view on the situation. The afternoon was taken up by delegates’ reports. The convention then adjourned. FRIDAY’S SESSION. The convention was called to order, with President J. P. Jones in the chair. J. B. Rae, President of the United Mine Workers of America, addressed the convention with well chosen remarks on the present condition of affairs. His advice was very pointed and plain and well received by all present. The following was presented as a substitute for a previous resolution, and adopted : Whereas, It has come to the knowledge of this convention that there are several places in the district working more than nine hours a day ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we call upon all such places hereafter to work no more than nine hours a day, and that the half holiday be adhered to. The committee on resolutions reported the following: That we indorse the action of the National Executive Board in declaring the eight-hour movement off for the 130 United Mine Workers of America present. That we favor a resumption of work from date until May 1, 1892, at last year’s prices and conditions — 70 cents for Hocking Valley, for pick mining, excepting that part of it so far as it relates to machine mining. Adopted. On motion, a committee of five was appointed to wait on the operators, as follows: J. P. Jones, M. Collins, John Ped- dicord, John Curran and T. Cole. The convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order, by John Nugent, Vice- President, A motion “that this convention approve of the action of the district officers in calling this convention, and that the best course under the circumstances has been taken by them for the interest of our craft,” was carried. Discussion on machine mining by different members of the convention followed.- The report of committee who waited on the operators, was as follows: The committee of operators and miners met in the Board of Trade building. Operator Townsend was elected president, and John P. Jones secretary. A friendly discussion was in- dulged in, and the following unanimously adopted : Resolved, That the price of mining for the ensuing year shall be 70 cents per ton for Hocking Valley, and the relative prices to continue in other parts of the state as at present, said prices to be and remain in force until IMay 1, 1892. A motion that a committee of Hocking Valley miners be appointed to wait on the Hocking Valley operators, was car- ried. The committee was constituted as follows: D. J. Jones, Joseph Smart, D. Barcley, Michael Collins, J. W. France. A motion “that if it is necessary for the machine miners to strike for their just rights, the pick miners will divide up the work with them, or render financial support if required, was carried. The committee on resolutions reported the following: District 5 Miners’ Convention 131 That we recommend that this convention heartily con- gratulates the national organization of the United Mine Work- ers in establishing an official organ at their recent convention, and we further recommend that all delegates present urge upon their constituents the necessity of supporting the same. Adopted. The committee who waited upon the Hocking Valley oper- ators reported the following: Whereas, The miners of Ohio have, in convention assem- bled, proposed to the Ohio operators to work for the year end- ing May 1, 1892, at 70 cents per ton for Hocking district and other districts in relative proportion thereto, and that nine hours shall constitute a day’s work, with a Saturday half holi- day; therefore. Resolved, That we, the committee of Hocking Valley oper- ators, accept the above proposition for the Hocking Valley. The report was adopted. A motion that the machine question be referred to the ma- chine miners for final adjustment, was carried. The convention then adjourned. PITTSBURG MINERS’ SPECIAL CONVENTION. Delegates from the miners of District 5 (Western Penn- sylvania) met in Pittsburg, Thursday and Friday, April 30 and May 1, 1891, to consider the question of prices for the year. The convention was called to order Thursday morning by President Hugh McLaughlin, Secretary-Treasurer Boyd acting as secretary to the convention. Patrick McBryde, national Secretary-Treasurer, occupied a seat at the secre- tary’s desk. John Morgan, Charles Wallace and M. McQuade were ap- pointed a committee on credentials. The following delegates were reported entitled to seats: John Caligan, J. A. Morgan, Peter Wagner, C. E. Wallace, Charles Ott, James McGrogan, Robert Riddley, John M. Gold- rich, John Hogg, Thomas Duffy, William Murray, James Sweeny, John Welch, John Kircher, M. O’Neil, William Lloyd, Samuel Devore, Ed Harty, W. T. Duffy, Matt McMichael, John Stratton, William Robertson, Patrick Halloran, M. McQuade, A. Savage, John J. Morris, Peter Sample, C. H. Ashbey, R. J. Morgan, James Logue, James Adamson. 132 United Mine Workers of America SPEECH OF PRESIDENT MCLAUGHLIN. Gentlemen of the Convention; When we last assembled, it was to discuss the eight-hour day. Failing to secure an agreement with our employers, our National Executive Board agreed to call together the presidents of the several districts, if in their wisdom they might deem such a step necessary in the interest of the organization. On last Friday I received a dispatch from our National Secretary to proceed to Columbus. On my arrival in that city I met Presidents White, Paisley, Wise, Jones and the members of the National Executive Board. The reason for the call was that information had come to our national officers regarding the action of the miners in different parts of the country in reference to the eight-hour working day. The miners of New Straitsville, who have heretofore enjoyed the reputation of being the most advanced unionists in the miners’ ranks, had, regardless of the welfare of others, gone to their operators and requested to be allowed to work at last year prices and terms. The actions of New Straitsville miners caused a widespread feeling of dis- may in other parts of Ohio, which was rapidly carried into other states. Letters began to pour in upon our national officers, the tenor of which showed that the men in other parts of the country were not as ready to move as many supposed. It was decided that each district officer should give an outline as to the position of his district on the eight-hour day. Dis- tricts 2 and A were ready to move, with one small exception. District 3 was opposed to a:iy movement at the present time. In my own district I knew the organized men were in favor of the eight-hour and 10 cents advance, but I could not shut my eyes to the fact that miners employed by the New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Company, the miners on the Balti- more and Ohio, on the Monongahela and west of Mansfield were very likely to remain at work. Ohio was like our ovm district, some in favor of the movement and many against it. West Virginia utterly opposed taking any action, and Ken- tucky and Tennessee settled with their operators without the eight-hour day. As the Presidents of Indiana and Illinois were absent, telegrams were sent to them, and the meeting adjourned until Monday, to give them time to be present. On Monday, President Goings was present and said, after the action of New Straitsville it would be impossible to move Illinois in an eight-hour strike. After carefully canvassing the situation, it was decided unanimously that as our miners were not prepared to move in their own interests, the time for inaugurating the eight-hour day be deferred. As we had made no arrangements as to a price for mining, and I desired to District 5 Miners’ Convention 133 explain matters more fully than it was possible to do in a cir- cular, this convention was called. I trust you will give these matters your careful consideration, and that in your wisdom you will take such action as will be advantagous to the miners of the Pittsburg district. Report of Delegates. Bunola miners wanted 89 cents and opposed a local strike for eight hours. Horner and Robert, discretionary power. Mansfield, 89 cents and eight-hour day. Courtney, 89 cents, eight hours. Nixon, 89 cents, eight hours. L. A. 3238, Imperial, 89 cents. Enterprise, 89 cents. Venture mine, 89 cents. Anderson, 89 cents and eight hours. Kealing mine, 4 cents per bushel. Federal and Fort Pitt, discretionary power. “If Ohio works at present price, so ought we.” Summer Hill, 89 cents, eight hours, willing to fight. Idlewood, 92 cents. New Bowerhill, 89 cents. L. A. 2288, 89 cents, provided Hocking Valley advances 9 cents relative difference. Eclipse mine, 89 cents, eight hours. Finleyville, 89 cents. Canonsburg wanted to act with the district; only worked from eight to nine hours, anyway. The operators wanted the men to work for a 5-cent reduction. Had a conference with the operators last night. There will be 160 organized men at our meeting tonight. Bells No. 2, 89 cents. Federal, move if Ohio does. Boyd, 89 cents ; move with Ohio. Osceola reported it very difficult to get up a meeting ; men want 89 cents. Snowden, 89 cents, if Ohio moves. Cherry and M. & E. mines, 89 cents. Macdonald, go with the majority. 134 United Mine Workers of America Gastonville, 89 cents. Smithton, discretionary power. Shaners, 89 cents or its equivalent for run of mine. A motion was made by J. A. Morgan to appoint a commit- tee of five on resolutions. C. Wallace considered the matter ought to be discussed in a committee of the whole. He was opposed to our backward policy. He did think that we were going to make some strikes with our present organization, but found himself disap- pointed. He was strongly in favor of 89 cents, but did not see how we could be successful, unless the Hocking Valley also moved a strike; under other conditions they could not suc- ceed. He moved to amend, that we consider the question in a committee of the whole. J. M. Goldrich said it was nonsense to talk of advancing wages above the Hocking Valley any further than at present. “Even if you would succeed, you would have the price, but other parts of the country would have the trade, as most of our coal goes to the lake market. An increase in the differ- ential would cut our employers out.” The amendment by Mr. Wallace was lost. The chairman appointed the following committee on reso- lutions: J. M. Goodrich, William Duff, Charles Wallace, James Sweeney, Michael O’Neil, James Logue, R. J. Morgan. The convention adjourned, to meet at 1:30. AFTERNOON SESSION. James A. McFarlane and George Hotchkiss arrived from Beechcliff. National Secretary P. IMcBryde informed the convention that during the dinner hour he had sent a telegram to the miners’ convention in Columbus, asking what they were doing. The report of committee on resolutions was as follows : Resolved, That we demand 89 cents per ton pending the action of the miners of Ohio. That the question of run of mine be referred to this con- vention. That the question of day work be referred ; that we accept the report of the committee and discuss the resolutions seriatim. District 5 Miners’ Convention 135 A motion that the first resolution be deferred until after after news was received from Columbus, was adopted. Mr. Caligan spoke in favor of doing something about the run of mine question. Operators were selling their coal, run of mine, and paying their miners for screened coals. M. O’Neil argued in favor of the present price, 54 cents, for run of mine, as being an equivalent to 79 cents. Mr. Goldrich said an arrangement had been made some time ago in Pittsburg, by which the miner whose coal went run of mine was to get the average weight of his cars which were screened. The men did not like that plan and wanted their coal weighed. Mr. Sample said when that method was adopted they did not allow another car to go as run of mine. New shutes were going up, and the question might arise again. He was in favor of a price being established and the coal weighed. Mr. Murray only wanted one price. He did not care whether it was run of mine or screened coal. During the discussion it came out that the operators on the river were loading their boats run of mine, something they had not done heretofore. A motion that the question be laid on the table was adopted. The question of day work turned out to be a local dispute at Mansfield. After some discussion, the following was adopted : Resolved, That all day men be allowed to work in case of a strike, provided they get the price and don’t dig coal. A motion that we take from the table the resolution as to price, was carried. During the discussion, the chairman called on the National Secretary to address the convention. Secretary McBryde reviewed the causes which led to the abandonment, for the time being, of the eight-hour day, advising the delegates to go slow as to demanding the 89 cents per ton, as an action of that kind might do a great amount of injury to their constituents. At the late convention, the differential of 9 cents was adopted between Pittsburg and Ohio. If the miners of Ohio agreed to work at 70 cents per ton, he desired to warn them that a 136 United Mine Workers of America demand for 89 cents would be suicidal, and if a strike was declared, it would end in defeat. At the conclusion of the Secretary’s remark. Brother McQuade moved to retain the 9-cent differential as between Pittsburg and Ohio. Adopted. Adjourned, to meet Friday. FRIDAY’S SESSION. The convention having heard no word from Ohio, at once took up the question of the price of mining. The delegates were unanimously in favor of an advance in price, but believed that 9 cents was a sufficient differential to exist between Pittsburg and Ohio. The question of arranging a price for local trade seemed to be a knotty one, as it would be a difficult matter for the miners to know what coal was local and what foreign. During the discussion, John Flannery and Peter Wise addressed the convention. A committee consisting of J. M. Goldrich, William Duffy, M. McQuade, M. O’Neil, W. Ashbey, James Logue, John Kircher, was appointed to wait upon the operators. On their return, they reported that the operators were willing to grant last year’s scale, but would, under no circumstances, pay any advance. On motion. Brother McBryde was requested to be present with the committee when they again met the operators. When the committee came back the second time they informed the con- vention that the operators were firm as to price, but agreed that when it could be shown that any operator was selling his coal, locally, at a price that would warrant an advance to the miners, they should receive it, and that a committee consisting of operators and miners should be appointed to decide any such cases that may arise. Although this was anything but satisfactory, it was agreed to for the next year, and the Sec- retary instructed to notify Mr. Robbins of the convention’s decision. A bulletin was sent out from Iowa, on May 9, 1891, as follows : The Iowa miners are out for the eight-hour day. In the following counties the men are all out, and the mines are at a standstill: Iowa and Coke Workers’ Strikes 137 Appanoose county, 1,300 men; Van Buren, 200; Wayne, 100; Monroe, 700; Lucas, 800; Marion, 500; Wappelo, 700; Keokuk, 1,200; Manaska, 2,000; Jasper, 600; Dallas, 200; Green, 200 ; Guthrie, 150 ; Polk, 900 ; Webster, 600. A dozen blacklegs at work. The following is a partial report of an appeal made in the interest of the Iowa miners : "Mystic, Iowa, June 8, 1891. "To all branches of labor throughout the country we appeal for help for the coal miners of Iowa, who are now standing out for the establishment of the eight-hours workday. We are not asking for an advance of wages, but for the eight hours to be the recognized workday. The operators say they will not entertain any proposition made by the organization, or by any committee of the miners. Aid us at once. Let every working- man in the country send us something to help us in this great battle we have been fighting in Iowa ever since the first day of May. With help from our fellow workmen throughout the country we will win.” Send all money to Julius Fromm. Walter S. Scott, President or Master Workman, Julius Fromm, Secretary-Treasurer, District No. 13, United Mine Workers of America. All labor papers please copy. Another strike, bravely contested, but the taskmaster of the period, born in affluence, succeeded in crushing the manly efforts made, to try and bring about a much needed reform. THE IOWA MINERS’ STRIKE FOR EIGHT HOURS. Mystic, Iowa, May 9, 1891. On the above date, an appeal was issued to the Iowa miners by President W. S. Scott, giving reasons why the district executive board had ordered the miners to lay down their tools and make the stand for the eight-hour work-day on the first day of May. To this appeal the miners’ response was encouraging. On May 18, Thomas Bowl, a member of the board, also published a statement, as follows : To the Coal Miners of the United States. Greeting: Just a few Words in regard to the eight-hour question. It has been brought about by various causes, chief of which is the discharging of men in several mining camps 138 United Mine Workers of America for no other reason than being identified with the organiza- tion, known as the United Mine Workers of America. In some instances, the men were discharged before the time for the inauguration of the eight-hour day; in other instances, when the men presented themselves for work on the morning of May 1, they were told there was no work for them. On the same date. May 18, a call was issued for a State Convention and Conference of Iowa miners and operators, to be held at Oscaloosa, May 21, 1891. Nearly seventy delegates attended the conference of miners at Oscaloosa, Iowa, but as none of the leading operators were present, no settlement was effected. The convention agreed to allow all miners, where terms were granted, to resume work. At several of the smaller mines the terms have been granted, and it is expected others will follow suit before the end of the week. The miners still out are firm and confident of success. From the above statement, it will be seen that none of the leading operators attended the conference referred to, and the struggle continued at mines where terms had not been granted. Later — Negroes were imported in large numbers to take the places of miners contending for the eight-hour workday, but during the contest the Iowa miners, through President Scott, secured the adoption of the eight-hour workday at the Oswalt Mine. President Scott, of Iowa, met by appointment, the owner of the Diagonal Mine, at Oswalt, June 23, 1891, and effected a settlement. The miners are at work eight hours, the organi- zation is to be recognized and bank committees are to be treated as the representatives of the miners. All men are to get their old places, and no one is to be discharged for taking part in the strike. Over 200 men are employed. The men are elated over their success, and they have reason to be. Miners, keep away from Iowa and give the boys a chance of success over the entire State. THE BIG COKE STRIKE ENDED. CAPTAIN LOAR ACQUITTED. Scottdale, Pa., May 23, 1891. The Herald today says : Not shattered, but broken, is what can be said of the strike this morning. The old men are report- ing for work, and a general resumption is sure to follow on Monday or Tuesday. At Valley, Gibraltar No. 3, of the coke region, after voting solid to continue the struggle Thursday, Illinois Miners’ Screen Law 139 reversed their position last night, and the old employes made application for their places. Superintendent James Lynch would not deal with the committee, and those wishing to return had to make individual application. Six or eight of the old men will not be given their places. Between Everson and Broadford many of the men made application for work, but as no preparations had been made for starting, nothing was done. At labor headquarters it was conceded that the old men were going to work, and it was the general opinion that under the circumstances it was the best thing that could be done. General Manager Lynch said that no more works would be started unless the demand for coke would increase. The production next week, with the works now in operation, will exceed the demand. In no event, he says, will Standard be started for some time. He is confident that the sliding scale will prove satisfactory, and that matters will move along smoothly for three years. The labor officials are determined to hold the organization, and they have faith in the future. Preparations are being made to start Dexter Monday morning. The old men will likely be given the preference. Uniondale and Anchor will also be started next week, but nothing is known of what course will be adopted by the Cambria Iron Company, although it is believed that they will put their works in blast the coming week. Enterprise was stopped this morning by the company, but for what reason could not be learned. The men were stopped after part of the ovens were out and while others were being watered. One of the employes from Trotter reports twenty -five evic- tions there yesterday and the men are unwilling to resume work on the terms offered by the company. The case of the Commonwealth against Captain Loar and his deputies closed at 3 :30 yesterday afternoon. Morehead addressed the jury for the defendants and Marshall for the commonwealth. After remaining out six hours, the jury re- turned a verdict at 9 o’clock last night of not guilty. 140 United Mine Workers of America The arguments in application for a new trial in the cases of Michael Barrett and others have not been made. Judge Reyburn has not been in Greensburg since the trials and he will have to hear the arguments. Adjutant-General McClelland yesterday sent to Brigadier- General John A. Wiley a draft for $27,051.36 in payment of the expenses incident to the calling of the Tenth and Eighteenth regiments to the coke regions during the recent labor troubles. Total amount received during strike, $4,228.41. C. M. Parker, Secretary. SCREEN LAW OF ILLINOIS. The gross weight act passed by the Illinois legislature and approved June 10, 1891 : 1. Coal to be weighed before screening, or full output accounted for. 2. (a) All coal to be weighed in pit cars before being dumped into screens. Record of weights. (b) Weighman — Oath to be posted at scales. 3. Penalties for failure to comply with law. An act to provide for the weighing in gross of coal hoisted at mines. Section 1. Be it enacted by the people of the State of Illinois, represented in the general assembly: That it shall I be unlawful for any owner, agent or operator of any coal mine, whose miners are paid upon the basis of the quantity of coal which each shall mine and deliver to said employer, to take any portion of the same by any process of screening, or by any other device, without fully accounting for and crediting the same to the miner from whose output such por- tion is secured or taken. 2. (a) That all coal shall be weighed in the pit cars before being dumped into screens or chutes. 2,000 pounds to the ton. A correct record shall be kept of the weight of each miner’s car, which record shall be kept open at all reasonable times for the inspection of all miners or others pecuniarily interested in the product of such mine. (b) The person authorized to weigh the coal and keep National Board on Defense Fund 141 such record shall, before entering upon his duties, make and subscribe to an oath before some magistrate or other officer authorized to administer oaths, that he will accurately weigh and carefully keep a true record of coal delivered from mines. This oath shall be kept conspicuously posted at the place of weighing. 3. Any person, owner or agent operating a coal mine in this state, who shall fail to comply with the provisions of this act, shall be fined for the first offense, not less than twenty- five ($25) nor more than fifty dollars ($50) ; for the second offense not less than one hundred ($100) nor more than two hundred dollars ($200), and for the third offense be im- prisoned in the county jail not less than six months nor more than one year. OFFICIAL NOTICE. Columbus, Ohio, July 2, 1891. To the Members of the United Mine Workers of America Everywhere, Greeting: Brothers and fellow craftsmen, we, your executive board, wish to congratulate the miners of the country embraced within the ranks of our organization upon the fact that, not- withstanding the crucial period through which we have passed and the opportunity presented to the open enemies and the pretending friends of the miners of the country and the miners’ organization, we, your executive board, believe that you have proven that there are enough of you possessed of the manly and intelligent quality to warrant us in continuing to ignore anything and everything, but that which in our opinion tends to the ultimate triumph of your and our purposes, viz : The betterment of our common condition through united and businesslike action. On the other hand we believe that many of you are de- manding from us, as the administration of the organization, impossibilities. We take this opportunity to protest against it and to give this public notification that we will not consider ourselves amenable to complaints and bickerings arising from our refusal to violate the laws of our organization. We refer to the manner in which it is sought by large numbers of our membership to avail themselves of the fund known as the de- fense fund on every imaginable occasion and pretext. Men join our organization as though it were some speculative ven- ture which would bring immediate pecuniary returns in about the same sense as the gambler invests a dollar and expects ten 142 United Mine Workers op America in return, with this difference, that if they do not realize their expectations, those who they imagine have frustrated them, are the object of their bitterest enmity. In proof of this we are able to point out places in which the men have organized and before being in compliance with and constitutionally entitled to benefits have sought aid and because of the influence and representations from the organ- ized men by whom they were surrounded and the good ex- pected to be accomplished by loosely interpreting our laws have received support and have had the time and attention of the officials of the organization, with the result of bringing about an amicable and triumphant settlement, and, after hav- ing received, in some instances, three and four hundred per cent on their small investment, have ceased to be members of the organization until just on the eve of the next anticipated trouble. Another class are those who joined our organization from sincere motives, but who do not exert that vigilance and care necessary to tide over the most critical time in their organ- ization, viz : The few weeks or months after they have been organized. Invariably, instead of this vigilance being used, the method is to be suddenly aggressive and attempt to adjust the accumulated wrongs of years. Even the stable, well- established locals throughout the country, who, when trouble reaches them, would have some show of reason in complaining if we, as agents of the organization, could not meet our obliga- tions to them, aggravate the situation by insisting too fre- quently that the above described places should be supported from the defense fund whether they are strictly and constitu- tionally entitled to it or not. Now we wish to tell you as our constituents that the de- fense fund positively cannot satisfy all those promiscuous demands. We believe that this fund, if strictly applied in the manner laid down in our constitution, can and will fulfill all its obliga- tions to the real genuine and honest union men of the country. Its effects already have been greater and more extensive than many of our members seem to know, and all of those honest union men who are in the organization from sound principle’s sake and who have been assisted by it, simply bless its exist- ence and its provisions. We insist that our obligations would have been more amply met were it not for the fact that the very backbone of our membership have too often urged the officials to expend our resources over those who, in many instances, might be called the unreliable ones of our craft. But be these things as they may, we protest that the defense fund has never yet had a fair, honest chance to prove its use- Iowa Convention at Oskaloosa 143 fulness, on account of the matters and reasons referred to in this circular. Therefore we now, once and for all, declare that not a cent shall leave the defense fund, during our tenure of office, which is not warranted by a strict compliance with the consti- tution. Your delegates, or rather yourselves through your dele- gates, have made provisions, whereby this fund shall be dis- bursed and our members protected. If those provisions are wrong they cannot be now adjusted by us. It is only left for us to see that those provisions are fulfilled and in the future we are determined that this shall be done. The constitution points out what those provisions are, but for the benefit of the readers of the Journal, we will here state that no trouble can be indorsed nor financial assistance given therefor, unless it has come through the district officials, and further that no trouble will be recognized financially, whether district officials have indorsed it or not, unless there has been a continuation of work until an opportunity has been given the national officials of investigating the same. We do this for your good and our good and the good of the organization and because we are bound both by the constitu- tion and necessity. John B. Rae, President, P. H. Penna, Vice-President, P. McBryde, Secretary-Treasurer, W. B. Wilson, John Kane, W. C. Webb, John Nugent, Members Executive Board. IOWA STATE CONVENTION AT OSKALOOSA. JULY 7, 1891. Seymour, Iowa, July 9. — The miners of Iowa met in con- vention at Oskaloosa, July 7. Nearly all the camps in the state were represented, there being 39 delegates, 44 including the members of the executive board. The convention was called to order by State President Walter S. Scott, who made a few appropriate remarks. Delegates were requested to report the true situation in their respective camps. The reports showed nearly all of the men firm and determined to win this strike for eight hours if possible, as a surrender would mean slavery to the miners of 144 United Mine Workers of America Iowa and disaster to the United Mine Workers of America, as nearly all of the companies have contracts borbidding their employes to join any organization for the purpose of advanc- ing labor. After hearing the reports and giving them due consideration, the convention passed the following resolu- tions : 1. That we, the miners of Iowa, still continue the strike for the eight-hour workday and the reinstatement of all dis- charged men. 2. That if the companies do not accede to our demands by the 18th day of July, 1891, that we then demand in addi- tion a two week’s pay. 3. That we further demand an advance of 10 cents per ton. 4. That the miners of Iowa, in convention assembled, do hereby request the National Executive Board of the United Mine Workers of America to call a convention of all district presidents for the purpose of declaring a national move for the eight-hour workday at once. 5. That we still maintain the stand for the eight-hour workday and, furthermore, in settling or adjusting the differ- ences that now exist between us and our operators, we will recognize no other settlement than that prescribed by the constitution of district 13, United Mine Workers of America. 6. That each mining camp, through its local secretary, report each week to the state secretary, the true condition of affairs as they exist at their respective mines, the same to be published in the official organs of district 13, United Mine Workers of America. Be it further resolved by the miners of this convention: Whereas, Rumors have been afloat concerning Walter S. Scott, president district 13, United Mine Workers of America, alleging that he had received money from his official capacity as a bribe to prolong the strike now existing in the state, and we have investigated the said charge concerning our presi- dent, and find that such is a pure fabrication from beginning to end and hereby declare to the miners and general public that we have the greatest confidence in the honesty and in- tegrity of President Scott. The convention then adjourned, subject to the call of the state executive board of Iowa miners. Julius Fromm, Secretary-Treasurer, District 13. Joint Agreement at Rendville, Ohio 145 JOINT AGREEMENT AT RENDVILLE, OHIO. On July 8, 1891, Secretary W. C. Pearce of district No. 6, United Mine Workers of America, gives the following as an agreement entered into with W. P. Rend for his mine at Rendville, Ohio : W. P. Rend called at the office of the United Mine Workers in reference to the trouble at the mines at Rendville. The following agreement was entered into : First — That the standard weight remain as at present, twenty-eight hundredweight (28 cwt.). Second — That the usual custom of the men filling the nut coal and slack must be adhered to. Third — That until the general demand for coal improves, which is expected the last of the present month, any or all of the young men employed at No. 3 will get employment at the other mines in which Mr. Rend is interested. Fourth — That the system of docking in force in the other mines in the Sunday Creek Valley shall prevail at No. 3. W. P. Rend. J. B. Rae. DISTRICT NO. 6 OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA SOAP VENDING. September 10, 1891. A RARE OPPORTUNITY. To the Wives and Daughters of the Miners of Ohio. A chance for a Christmas present. I am authorized by the Shakers’ Soap Company to offer the following prizes to the party forwarding the largest number of United Mine Workers’ soap wrappers to the undersigned before December 20, 1891: 1st prize, a silk dress or $25; 2d prize, $10 ; 3d prize, $5. In addition to above cash prizes the twenty-five persons sending the next lower number of wrappers will each receive a ladies’ handsome plush workbox, containing thimble, scissors, bodkin, button hook, etc. No humbug. The result will be published in the United Mine Workers’ Journal. W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer District No. 6. In accordance with the announcement made, the fair com- petitors in the Ohio district were numerous, including Charley’s interesting wife, Mrs. W. C. Pearce. 146 United Mine Workers of America Miss Ellen Craney of Buckingham won first prize, having produced 600 soap wrappers; Mrs. L. V. Deloche, Brideport, second with 369, and Mrs. M. E. Simpson of Mt. Pleasant, third, with 362. To these three enterprising ladies the prin- cipal prizes were awarded by the allied revenue producers of the United Mine Workers of America. STRIKE SITUATION EXPLAINED. Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, October 19, 1891. At this writing there is very little change in this district, so far as the strike is concerned. The operators remain firm, also the miners. Several of the large rolling mills are still idle. The railroad operators have been making arrangements to have their contracts filled by the river operators and in view of that fact we have issued the f olloydng brief circular : “To the Miners of the Monongahela River, Greeting : “You are hereby requested not to load flats unless the operators agree not to supply any of the railroad operators’ contracts. It is earnestly urged that you will comply with this appeal from your fellow miners of the railroad district. Pit committees and check weighmen will please see that this matter is promptly attended to, as we have only a few ad- dresses at hand. “John Costello, President. “M. McQuade, Secretary, “Pittsburg District.” It is hoped that the river miners will comply with this request. This week the operators published a voluminous account of the difference existing between them and the miners. They say in concluding: “To sum up, the miners and operators, on May 2, agreed to a rate of 79 cents for one year, the ‘differential’ of 9 cents established, as before stated, being allowed. Five months later the miners broke this agreement and demanded 13 cents more, or a rate of 92 cents, making the ‘differential’ 22 cents, and practically driving Pittsburg coals out of the great markets of the Northwest. The opera- tors maintain that the strike, with all its disastrous conse- quences and loss to both operators and miners, is due to the latter alone, and point to the facts of the case in proof of their assertions.” The following is our reply : “The differential between the Ohio and Pittsburg districts was 24 cents before natural gas displaced coal as a fuel in Pittsburg and when the first con- President Costello Explains 147 ■ vention of operators and miners met in Columbus, the opera- tors of the Pittsburg district made the plea that on account of the displacement of coal by gas they had no market for their stock and had to employ men to haul it away or shovel it out on the ground. They also complained they were com- pelled to sell their nut coal at a lower price for these reasons. They claimed the difference should be reduced to 11 cents and the miners agreed to it. The following year the Pitts- burg operators went into the joint convention and demanded the differential should be still further reduced to 9 cents. This the miners were forced to accept, in order that the joint movement should be continued. “The conditions of which the operators complained have been changed. Instead of paying men to throw the slack away they sell it for 3 cents a bushel and nut coal at 6 cents. “In 1889 the price of mining was 73 cents per ton. The selling price at the tipple was 90 and 95 cents. In 1890 the price of mining was 79 cents per ton; price at the tipple $1.10 and $1.15. In 1891 the price of mining is 79 cents; price at the tipple $1.15 and sometimes $1.25. In view of these facts we believe the miners’ demands to be just. The responsi- bility for the trouble rests with the operators and not with the men. The operators were the first to violate the agree- ment by refusing to pay the price agreed upon. They annulled the agreement and broke faith with the miners by three- fourths of them refusing the deadwork scale. The most prominent operators in the inter-state movement have always refused to pay the prices agreed upon.” Brother Rae’s sentiments as expressed in the city papers : Mr. Rae feels confident, and when the subject of arbitra- tion was broached he said : “Well, I would suggest that the operator pay 92 cents a ton for all local trade, and regarding the amount of advance on the outside trade I would be willing to have a fair body of men grant a decision. I feel so safe that our demands are just that we are no way timid in leaving this question to a committee composed of fair-minded citizens.” The great barrier in our way to success today is the fact that the miners of Turtle Creek, Sandy Creek, Plum Creek, Lampton and Irwin Station refuse to cease work. The writer addressed meetings last week at Smithton, Lucyville, Black Diamond and Midway, which were very well attended. Brother Rae spoke at Black Diamond and Midway also. A very amusing incident occurred at the last named place. A very large meeting was held there and Brother Rae spoke from 148 United Mine Workers of America an improvised platform; on taking the stand he related the story of the preacher who was delivering a sermon from a flour barrel and how, when he was uttering the last word of the following passage: “a little while and you shall see me, and again a little while and you shall not see me,” the head of the barrel gave Avay, and the poor preacher descended into the barrel and was lost to sight for the time being. So it happened that just when Brother Rae had his arms extended upwards as if to implore Jupiter to assist him in vanquishing his adversaries, the platform gave way and he landed in a small ravine. The audience stood awestricken until the doughty president returned whole and sound with the exception of a sprained wrist, to resume his speech. All trains on the Pan Handle railroad were compelled to go to Steubenville, Ohio, for coal. Will Ohio miners All our contracts ? is the question asked by- our miners at the present time. The operators are having coal loaded in the coke region on the P. McK. Y. They generally send it through Pittsburg at night, sometimes holding the trainmen over all day in order to go through here at night. We have been informed today that the Pennsylvania road was going to bring coal from the east as the Pittsburg, Virginia and Charleston road was un- able to get coal for their engines. A few men at Scott Haven No. 1 are working, running coal east. There are also two small mines running at Smithton. We have 1,000 men work- ing at the advance, 92 cents per ton. Today we have put eight men in the fleld to look after the interests of the dis- trict. Don’t forget the 25 cent levy to keep them in the field. John Costello. JOINT AGREEMENT, JACKSON COUNTY, OHIO. Joint agreement between coal operators and miners, Jack- son county, Ohio, 1891. For Coalton and Wellston districts, Jackson county, Ohio, November 12, 1891. Basis for settle- ment for Coalton district : The price paid for mining shall be 5 cents per ton above Hocking Valley prices. Entry driving, $1.75 per yard, when mining is 75 cents per ton. Entry driving, $2.00 per yard, when mining is 85 cents per ton. William Houston’s Death, 1891. 149 Pushers, drivers and other day labor receiving same price, $1.50 per day. Signed, Committee — John Wall, Joseph Smith, John Wykle, Charles Rittenhouse, John Blankenship, Miners. J. J. C. Evans, H. L. Chapman, Eben Jones, J. Morrow, E. W. Redding, Operators. For Wellston district, November 12, 1891. Basis of settle- ment. The mining price shall be the same as Hocking Valley prices. Entry driving, $1.25 per yard for coal alone, and 75 cents per yard for slate alone, the same as it is now, on the present price of mining, 70 cents. Day wages shall be $1.50 per day for drivers, pushers and other day labor now receiving that price. Signed, Committee — Edwin James, Steven A. Wangler, Thomas Cole, Joshua Thomas, J. P. Jones, Miners. H. L. Chapman, Theo Fluhart, W. L. Caten, E. T. Jones, Moses Morgan, Operators. WILLIAM HOUSTON’S DEATH. William Houston, a former state president of the mine workers of Indiana, died November 19, 1891. Aged 54 years. Billy Houston, as he was familiarly called by his closest friends, was known as a plain, blunt honest-spoken man, full of enthusiasm for the trade union cause he loved to espouse. The coal operators of the competitive field can doubtless recall some of the forceful arguments he used when discussing joint scale agreements made, more especially so, at the joint conference held at the Bates House, Indianapolis, Indiana, later the Claypool, in the eighties. In William Houston’s death, the trades union movement lost a staunch advocate of the principle; a firm believer and worker for justice to the weaker side; and a character for honesty of purpose well worthy of emulation and respect. The mine workers can say of him : He was my friend. 150 United Mine Workers of America CONVENTION OF DISTRICT NO. 12. The convention was called to order January 13, 1892, at 10 :30 a. m. with President and Master-Workman M. J. Goings in the chair. The following committee on credentials was appointed : James Houldsworth and Con. Burke. The following delegates were reported entitled to repre- sentation : Con. Burke, Oglesby; James Houldsworth, Reed City; Robert Cunion, St. David; William Wright, Kingston Mines; J. A. Crawford, Bryant; John R. Monaghan, Streator; John Jasper, DuQuoin; Richard Evans, Centralia; C. S. Jones, Sato. Auditing committee appointed: J. A. Crawford and James R. Monaghan. On motion of Mr. Crawford, D. W. Ryan of Springfield was accorded a seat in the convention. In the course of his address. President Goings said : That notwithstanding all our trouble we have gained more material benefits than we as a craft ever gained in any one year. We have got some good laws passed but without an organ- ization of sufficient strength we cannot compel the money power of this state to respect those laws. I am satisfied that a national organization is the only kind that can successfully cope with our difficulties. I believe a uniform initiation fee should be fixed at not less than $5 throughout the whole state. Speaking of the defense fund, he said : It would be better for the organization in our state if we had no defense fund, unless we can have one more effective than what we have now. Contracts such as we have now in the northern part of the state are a disgrace to a free citizen as the operators per- sist in having a contract signed, as one of them said to me, at a time when they can stand a strike best. The different committees having been appointed, Delegate Burke of Oglesby, said the majority of the unions of that place were organized, and the truck and gross weight laws were being fulfilled, and miners receiving payments semi- monthly. Illinois District Convention 151 James Houldsworth, of Reed City, reported weekly pay and gross weight laws being obeyed with no truck store. Robert Cunion, St. Davids and Dumferline, reported weekly pay and gross weight laws being obeyed and no com- pulsion with regard to store; powder $2.00 per single keg; and $1.85 in twenty-keg lots. In favor of state organization, but will agree with the ruling of this convention. Crawford of Bryant reported half of men organized, but all co-operating with the union men. Conditions the same as at St. Davids. In favor of national organizations, desire changes in the constitution. Monaghan of Streator said : They were virtually without an organization at that place. The chief cause arose from some misunderstanding between the two branches. They had no truck store, but both weekly pay and gross weight laws were disregarded. Jasper of Duquoin, reported one secret branch and two open branches, working nine hours per day and one-half day on Saturdays. The laws were regarded in every particular. They were in favor of national organization. Evans of Centralia: We are enjoying all the privileges of the weekly pay, gross weight, and anti-truck store laws, without any restriction whatever. We are in favor of national organization and of keeping defense fund in the state. Jones of Sato: The weekly pay, gross weight and anti- truck laws are not duly regarded. We are in favor of national organization as the only effective means of improving our condition, but we are in favor of retaining the defense fund m the state. By special request. National Secretary-Treasurer McBryde, who was in attendance, addressed the convention. His re- marks were well received. He outlined the course of events during the past year, reviewing them in a logical, reasoning manner. New light was shed upon the situation, particularly so regarding the eight-hour question. The outcome of his address was a healthier and better feeling toward the national executive board and the organization in general on the part of those who heard him. A few more such addresses and 152 United Mine Workers of America Illinois will again wheel into line in the ranks of the organiza- tion, Hon. William Scaife and the indefatigable P. H. Donnelly also addressed the convention and made some excellent points, which were well received. WEDNESDAY MORNING. President Goings in the chair. The committee on order of business recommended the order of last convention, which was adopted. Committee on resolutions reported the following which were adopted : Resolved, That it is considered to be and shall be the duty of each and every delegate attending this convention to heart- ily concur in and abide by, and support, each and every meas- ure passed by this convention, by majority vote. That we pledge ourselves, as true United Mine Workers of America, to sink all differences of opinion for the welfare of the majority. That each and every delegate in this convention is hereby authorized to call for and use, as his wisdom directs, a tabular statement of the financial standing of our state officers over the signature of our auditing committee, for the purpose of clearing our state officers of the charge of misappropriation. That this convention recommend to the national convention the advisability of so amending the constitution in relation to defense fund that no state, or part of a state, shall be entitled to any relief from defense fund, should they come out on strike before first receiving the consent of state or national officers, and no power be vested in any officer or set of officers to violate this resolution. That this convention request that the national send a few good men at a near date to western and southern Illinois to build up the organization to its former good standing and that some men be kept long enough to make their mission felt. That this convention elect three delegates to attend the national convention at Columbus, Ohio, February 9, and that each delegate, by the order of chis body, is authorized to levy a 25-cent assessment to cover expenses, the same to be at once collected and forwarded to Eben Howells, said Eben Howells to immediately notify each body not represented to pay said levy at once. Illinois District Convention 153 That our district secretary-treasurer make a tabular statement of the financial transactions of the state board for the year 1891, over the certificate of the auditing committee. Resolved, That any national or state officer becoming a candidate for any political office shall resign at once and no national or state officer shall engage in any political contest during his term of office, and should he insist on doing so he commits a misdemeanor and forfeits all claim to office. The next three resolutions adopted were those offered by P. H. Donnelly, in a communication to the United Mine Workers’ Journal and which appeared on January 7, 1892, bearing on the question of organizing Southern Illinois. Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent by the secretary to the national officers for the consideration of the national convention. Resolutions declaring the present deplorable condition of the miners of Illinois to be due to the cause which operates against all unorganized labor and the absence of organization in this state to be due to the criminal negligence of non-union miners, as well as the persistent disregard by others of the necessity and advantages of a thorough national miners’ union, and setting forth the conditions which operate to make the idea of local or district union, solely, untenable and futile were adopted. The evils of rate cutting were denounced and an appeal made to the miners of Illinois to consider their honor and manhood, their homes and the future of their families arid not to allow themselves to be driven like dumb beasts or operated like so much machinery. It was also. Resolved, That we reiterate our pledges for a thorough national union of our craft. Resolved, Also that we pay no heed to the teachings of those whose conduct tends to bring strife and discord into our ranks and we hereby appeal to the better judgment of the men of our state not to be deterred in the duty they owe to them- selves and families. On motion of Evans seconded by Cunion, the following was heartily indorsed : That we feel sincerely thankful to all friends whose labors and influence was duly exercised in our behalf for remedial 154 United Mine Workers of America legislation, and while appreciating the enactment of the weekly pay law, truck store bill, gross weight bill, the mine examination bill, and such legislation, we deplore the fact that corporations wilfully, and we believe criminally, disregard most of the laws herein specified, and we hope there may be some means consistent with law and government by which corporations may be compelled to observe the requirements of all statutory laws, as individual citizens have been compelled to do. We would recommend to the forthcoming national conven- tion that the legislative demands of organized miners for laws which are of a national character, such as a weekly pay law, gross weight law, truck store laws, etc., etc., be made the de- mands of the craft in each coal producing state of the union, before their respective legislature, and the extension of such laws to the Indian Territory as will tend to prevent such dis- asters as the one which recently took place at Krebs, Indian Territory. Report of committee on organization: 1. That this state be divided into five sub-districts, the same as mining districts are divided under the state mining department of mine inspectors, and the executive board shall consist of one member from each of these districts, together with the president and master workman and secretary-treas- urer. 2. That these five sub-districts be divided into field dis- tricts and a local organizer be charged to look after the interest and welfare of the miners of each field district, also the sub-district presidents and master workmen of each sub- district, and the local organizer of each field district shall keep up a regular correspondence with the state office, in order to effect a proper understanding of all the movements going on in the state. 3. The dividing lines of each field district shall be left in the hands of state officials and executive board. It was moved that the delegates make out a list of promi- nent men in their vicinity who work at mines not organized but who would assist organizers in getting up meetings, and send them to the general secretary-treasurer. On motion of Monaghan, seconded by Evans, the following was adopted: Whereas, Meetings held by organizers with closed doors is beneficial only to those who are entitled to a seat in a local, and all non-union men are thereby deprived of a knowledge of Convention Proceedings, District 12 155 what the organizer has to offer for the advancement of labor ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we recommend the holding frequently of public or mass meetings for the purpose of ventilating our grievances and educating public opinion to our cause. On motion of Cunion, seconded by Evans, the following delegates were elected to attend the national convention at Columbus next month: M. J. Goings, J. A. Crawford, J. R. Monaghan, and John Jasper. Motion by Monaghan, seconded by Cunion, that the time and place of holding the next state convention be left in the hands of the incoming officers, but the convention to be held not later than the middle of April next. Amended by Jasper, seconded by Evans, that the words “not later than the middle of April next” be stricken out. Amendment prevailed. Motion that the election of officers (president and secre- tary-treasurer) be postponed until the next state convention. Adopted. Motion that we now proceed to elect members for the in- coming executive board. Adopted. The following members were elected for the respective dis- tricts : District No. 1 — J. R. Monaghan, Streator, 111. District No. 2 — Con Burke, Oglesby. District No. 3 — J. A. Crawford, Bryant. District No. 4 — Richard Evans, Smithboro. District No. 5 — John Jasper, Duquoin. Auditors — Messrs. Crawford and Monaghan. Moved, that the proceedings of the day be given to the press. Carried. Moved, that the initiation and district tax remain the same as they are until next state convention. Carried. THURSDAY MORNING. The convention was called to order. President Goings in the chair. Moved, that we go into executive session. Carried. Report of auditing committee impart was read as follows: 156 United Mine Workers of America RECAPITULATION. Receipts. District tax $2,133.95 Special levy 269.05 Supplies 78.60 Miscellaneous 604.34 National defense fund for West Shaft 1,174.00 National defense fund for Sparta 100.00 National defense fund and other sources for lockout 3,613.03 Organizing 49.80 On hand per last annual report 76.79 Total receipts $8,099.56 Dishursemcnts. Office salaries $1,069.47 Organizing and field work 371.44 Hotel and railroad expenses , 1,359.53 Locked-out and victimized 4,626.00 Miscellaneous 116.15 Office rent and expenses 262.73 Attending Executive sessions 52.00 Printing and stationery 232.95 Cash on hand 9.29 Total disbursements $8,099.56 We, your committee, beg leave to recommend that the fiancial report of Secretary-Treasurer, Eben Howells, be re- ceived, placed on file and ordered printed in full in the United Mine Workers’ Journal, as we, your committee, have audited said accounts and found them correct. J. A. Crawford, James R. Monaghan. Convention adjourned. Convention Proceedings, District 6 157 CHAPTER VII. OHIO MINERS’ CONVENTION. The convention was called to order Tuesday, January 19. 1892, with President Jones in the chair. The following were appointed a committee on credentials : Edwin James, Coalton; Geo. J. Haskens, Washingtonville ; Fred Dilcher, Orbiston; J. J. Eddy, Shawnee; Thomas C. Miller, Massillon; John Fahy, Jacksonville; Sherman Glas- gow, Bellaire. The chair appointed J. C. Duncan, assistant secretary. Motion to adjourn. Carried. AFTERNOON SESSION. Committee on credentials reported the following entitled to seats in the convention: John Spriggs, Stephen A. Wang- ler, Samuel Martin, Wm. Kiefer, Fred Dilcher, Thos. Mo- rarity, J. J. Cusick, Alex. Gibbs, John Fahy, M. K. Glen, J. C. Duncan, W. L. Turvey, Robert Ramsey, I. N. Tucker, W. E. Applegarth, Jas. Daugherty, Jas. Prichard, J. P. Jones, H. McKenna, R. A. Morgan, J. H. Levering, Lafayette Turvey, J. J. Eddy, Thos. Moulton, Chas. P. Ray, L. D. Devore, Hugh Lewis, Wm. Etheridge, J. C. Gallagher, G. J. Haskens, Ber- nard Noon, John Eyley, Geo. Jacoby, Emmet Valentine, Thos. Wilkinson, Joseph Mullan, Jas. Maloney, Mark Gulliver, T. L. Lewis, John Williams, J. C. Curtis, Thos. Simister, C. B. Knox, M. Farnsworth, Joshua A. Jones, Evan Williams, Jessie Devore, Raphael Parks, L. D. Shields, Charles E. Starr, Charles Bailey, C. H. Smith, G. C. Silcott, James Patterson, James Sergent, Ferdinand Walker, J. E. Sivard, Theodore Chalfant, Morgan Lewis, Charles Bausher, Landy Steenrod, V. E. Sullivan, Thos. McMasters, James O’Donnell, Thos. J. Healy, William E. Farms, Hiram Deen, Dennis H. Sullivan, William Nixon, Jasper Cox, F. Horning, T. M. Gallagher, Charles A. Robins, W. C. Brown, Thomas C. Miller, George Wilson, H. H. Narney, Patrick McGivern, A. C. GifRn, John 158 United Mine Workers of America Haynes, James E. Lewis, William L. Davis, Z. Emerey, Samuel Conrad, Wm. Meddows, M, Harrington, G. W, Scheck, John Whalen, David S. Roy, Edwin James, John Maddox, Sherman Glasgow, D. C. North, Michael Jackson, John Nugent, W. C. Pearce, Jas. Probst, F. Weymueller, Chas. Fitser, Geo. Savely, Chas. Call, R. L. Davis, Joshua Thomas, Jonathan Coslett, F. H. Jackson, A. H. West, and John Still. Moved, that the report be accepted and the committee con- tinued. Agreed to. Order of Business — Thomas Lewis, Charles P. Ray, Jessie Devore, Wm. Nixon, James Maloney, James Pritchard, C. North. Grievances — William Applegarth, Bernard Noon, L. D. Shields, William Patterson, John Eyley, Dennis H. Sullivan, G. W. Scheck. Auditing — John Williams, J. L. Sergent, J. C. Curtis, Charles Call, Joshua Thomas, R. L. Davis, Charles Robbins. Constitution — Mark Gulliver, Morgan Lewis, Thomas l\Io- rarity, Thomas Wilkinson, Samuel Martin, S. A. Wangler, C. H. Smith. Resolutions — Raphael Parks, W. L. Davis, John Whalen, W. E. Farms, V. E. Sullivan, L. Steenrod, M. Jackson. National President Rae briefly addressed the convention, after which a motion was adopted that the convention adjourn until tomorrow. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20. The meeting was called to order with President J. P. Jones in the chair. Report of the committee on rules and order of business : 1. That the convention be governed by parliamentary rules and order. 2. That the convention convene at 8 a. m. and adjourn at 12:15 p. m. ; reconvene at 1:30 p. m. and adjourn at 5 p. m. 3. Speeches to be limited to five minutes and no person to speak more than once on the same question. 4. General discussion on ways and means of building up the organization. 5. Report of committees. Convention Proceedings, District 6 159 6. Miscellaneous business. Reading of minutes of yesterday’s meeting. Correction of names having been made, the report was adopted. The credentials committee reported that they received credentials of E. Thomas and John A. Peddicord, and advised their admission to the convention, with voice, but no vote. Report concurred in. Resolutions Adopted. 1. Resolved, That we, the delegates of District 6, of the United Mine Workers of America, composed of the miners and mine laborers of the State of Ohio, in convention assem- bled, do hereby indorse the speedy passage of a law to prohibit Chinese immigration. That all delegates shall, upon their return home, circulate petitions and solicit the signatures of citizens of their localities to the said petition and forward to our congressmen, and that we may all have one heading for said petitions. The secretary-treasurer is hereby authorized to have printed heading of said petitions and forward at once two copies of same to each Local Assembly and Local Union in District 6, as soon as possible. 2. That we, the delegates of District 6, of the United Mine Workers of America, composing the miners of the State of Ohio, in convention assembled, do hereby affirm and believe that the best interest of our craft require that this district be represented in the great industrial conference of all organiza- tions, that is to meet in St. Louis, Mo., on February 22, 1892. 3. Referred to the author. 4. Whereas, The semi-monthly pay law has been grossly violated in certain sub-districts in District 6, in regard to yardage; therefore, be it Resolved, That each miner driving narrow work, or more properly termed yardage, shall demand from the mine or pit- boss that his place shall be measured and his yardage turned into the office and paid for semi-monthly, under penalty of suspension or expulsion. 5. That on and after May 1, 1892, all miners not belonging to some miner’s union shall be considered non-union miners, and treated as such. Whereas, The nominations for officers have been made by locals and delegates instructed how to record their votes. Resolved, That the vote of the delegates be recorded in the proceedings of this convention. 6. That we urge the mine inspector to enforce the law in regard to break-throughs, and that the district secretary- 160 United Mine Workers of America treasurer notify him and ask that he enforce said law to the letter in all places in this district. 7. That we urge on the legislature of Ohio to pass a law requiring the weighing of all coal before screening. Moved we adjourn. Carried. AFTERNOON SESSION. The session opened, with President Jones in the chair, who stated that the question before the convention was the machine question, or price for machine work. Moved, that we go into executive session. Carried. Resolved, That we demand three-fifths of the pick price for loading coal after machine, including the drilling, and 3 cents less where the company does the drilling. After hearing the reports of the different delegates, the committee finally resolved to insist on three-fifths of the price of pick mining for loading after machines, but only on condi- tion that District 6, as a whole, will strike with us if necessary, and not otherwise. This to be submitted to the miners of Ohio as an issue of our forthcoming district convention. Amendment: That a committee of five machine men and five pick miners bring it before the convention. Carried. Committee on part of machine men — W. E. Farms, John Fahy, Fred Dilcher, Jessie Devore, Thomas Morarity. Committee on part of pick men — T. L. Lewis, Joshua Thomas, Thomas Wilkinson, Morgan Lewis, James Sergent. A recess of fifteen minutes was taken to give the delegates an opportunity to present to the secretary the numbers of their respective locals. Vice-President Nugent then called the convention to order, when a motion to adjourn to Thursday, was passed. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21. The convention was called to order, Vice-President John Nugent in the chair. Special committee on machine question was called on to make a report. The chair declared the convention in executive session. Report of special committee: District 6 Proceedings Continued 161 We believe the machine miners are entitled to an advance over present rates, to bring them up to an equivalent of the pick mining rates. Resolved, That we sustain the demand of the machine miners, and that this convention authorize a levy of $1 per week on each pick miner for the support of the machine miners, in case of a strike, or share our work with any ma- chine men who desire to come among us for work. After hearing the respective opinions. Brother Call moved that the motion be separated, and the motion was adopted. Moved, to adopt the recommendation of the committee: That we sustain the demand of the machine miners for three- fifths of pick mining rates. Carried. Resolved, That each checkweighman send in each month to his sub-district secretary, the average of his mines, said average to comprise the average number of men employed, total number of full days worked per month, average clear pay per man per day, average clear pay per man per month, average clear pay per man for the year, total tons of coal mined, total money paid by the company for total production of the mine, and also the total cost to company per ton for coal, this average to be enforced in difference in earnings of pick miners and machine miners throughout the state of Ohio, and not as heretofore, to be guided by only the best ma- chine mines in the United States. Adopted. Joshua Thomas, John Whalen and F. Weymueller were appointed as a committee to wait upon the governor and friends of the miners, to address the convention. The question of defense fund was taken up. The commit- tee on resolutions recommended the defense fund be abolished. Moved, that the matter be tabled until 2 o’clock. Adopted. AFTERNOON SESSION. Meeting called to order with President Jones in the chair. The address of the president was then read. Gentlemen of the Convention: Again we have come together for the purpose of deliberat- ing on the question : How best to promote the interests of the miners of District 6, or the State of Ohio. Speaking in a com- parative sense, our very commendable and advanced position as an organized state does not altogether entitle but obligates us to also deliberate here during the progress of this conven- tion: How best to promote the interests of the miners of 162 United Mine Workers of America America. Without egotism, without assumption and without arrogating to ourselves any superiority in the personnel of the men constituting this, our very creditable state organization, we yet must recognize that owing to conditions partly of the making of men themselves and partly unavoidable, and which for some years the miners of Ohio have not had to grapple with, we are in a position today in which, in proportion to the disposition of broadness, or the converse of this quality, dis- played by us, so will the future of the principle of organiza- tion, and the consequent condition of the miners of Ohio and our sister states be satisfactory or otherwise. We have had, during the past year, no strikes of a general character, but several of a minor or local nature. During the month of May, the miners of Coshocton, county struck to enforce rules for the government of mines. After a struggle of three months, the men were defeated, and were compelled to seek work at the company’s terms. The strike was untimely and, had more discretion and more deliberate judgment been exercised, would not have occurred. On July 1, in accordance with a resolution adopted at the special convention, the miners of the Cleveland, Lorain and Wheeling, and Wheeling and Lake Erie railroads instituted a movement with a view to the establishment of the nine-hour work-day. After a two weeks’ suspension, the matter was compromised on a basis of nine and a half hours per day, the operators agreeing to pay the Hocking Valley scale of prices for drivers and inside men. Along with this triumph was gained an adjustment of the pick sharpening difficulty and a reduction in the unreasonable rents which were being exacted at some of the mines in that locality. Adverse and unfriendly as was the criticism indulged in by many on account of the settlement made in this district, we still feel a consciousness of having fulfilled the obligations incumbent upon us as presi- dent of the organization, in making the settlement referred to. Among the many reasons for this, perhaps none are stronger than the fact that an ominous restlessness could easily be dis- cerned in the midst of the men engaged in that strike, and which gave anything but a glowing promise of a determina- tion on the part of many of them to make the sacrifices inci- dent to a long siege, should it be necessary for ultimate suc- cess, as well as the more menacing fact that the trade of that locality was being appropriated and supplied by West Vir- ginia. In the Tuscarawas Valley a signal triumph of justice and reason was gained in the settlement at Forest mine of what is generally known as the breaker or obstruction grievance. The facts are these : At the above mentioned place the devel- District 6 Proceedings Continued 163 opment of this annoyance and injustice had advanced to such proportions that the men affected demanded the immediate removal of the same, and suspended work to enforce their de- mand. After three weeks of parley and negotiating with a view to the adjustment of this difficulty, it was mutually agreed to settle the matter by arbitration, David Johns and Henry Herbert being selected to act in behalf of the operators, and M. Ratchford and myself being selected by the miners, with the Rev. Father Kuhns as umpire. After a thorough and exhaustive investigation, both in the way of collecting verbal testimony and the making of actual test by weight, measurements and other means of determining the justice in the case, it was decided by the reverend gentleman that the obstructions in the screens should be removed. A little divergence may be permitted here, and I am sure, understanding the circumstances as I do, is excusable for the purpose of doing a simple act of justice to the character and integrity of the gentleman whom we were fortunate enough in securing as umpire on this occasion. Christianity and religion in its practical demonstration was never more clearly evi- denced than in the manner in which everything which tends to quell the ordinary worldly man was withstood by this gen- tleman. Without fulsomeness, we wish to be understood as saying that if the representatives of the Nazarene were in all cases as truly representative as this experience shows us was and is this respected gentlemen, the question, “The church versus labor,” would have a different standing in the world than it has today. We hope that this convention, before its adjournment, will mete out to the Rev. Kuhns a courtesy, which is truly merited, in the passage of an appropriate reso- lution embodying the thanks of the miners of Ohio, not for his friendship as much as for his strong and fearless sense of justice and right. The miners of Fluhart’s (Jackson county) mine struck for the discharge of a pit boss, who, by his injudicious conduct and untimely remarks, succeeded in earning for himself an unenviable reputation and making himself generally obnox- ious. After a few weeks’ idleness, the matter was referred to an arbitration committee, whose decision was that the gentle- man should be removed, which was done ; thus demonstrating that even haughty pit bosses cannot with impunity assail the character of our homes. In April, the miners of Redfield were, by the unfair and arbitrary rules that had been passed, compelled to strike. Af- ter a period of five weeks, the matter was adjusted by arbi- tration. During the month of November, the men of Cherry Valley 164 United Mine Workers of America mine, Washingtonville, struck for the re-instatement of a fel- low miner who had been discharged for having loaded a small amount of refuse matter. After being idle two weeks, the company agreed to the miners’ terms. This was an unwise and unnecessary stoppage, owing to the arbitrary spirit of the superintendent. December, a strike of three weeks’ duration occurred at Irondale. The company attempted to enforce some unjust and unfair rules, which the men declined to entertain. As a consequence, the company selected those most conspicuous in the cause of organization and sought to discharge them. The miners refused to allow this insidious scheme to break up their union. The company seeing the determination of the men, withdrew the proposition. On May 1, the miners of Yorkville struck to secure a reduc- tion in the screens from one and a half inch to a recognized inch and a quarter. After an enforced idleness of five months, the men secured a victory. In May, the miners of the Guernsey division of the Balti- more and Ohio railroad struck to secure the Hocking Valley prices for inside day men. This affair proved disastrous to our organization. The operators, assisted by the treacheiy and deceit of some hirelings, succeeded in inducing some men to return to work, leaving the best and most substantial men to work out their own salvation. On April 1, the miners of Wadsworth, Tuscarawas Valley, struck for the enforcement of the Massillon scale of deficient work and for the privilege of retaining the checkweighman of their choice. For years past this mine was notorious as a non-union mine, the company having refused to pay deficien- cies, permit checkweighmen or countenance union rules or union men. After a struggle of three months’ duration, the company was compelled to yield, granting all the demands. This is another evidence of what can be accomplished by a concentration of action and unanimity of purpose. Here we witnessed the colored men standing side by side with their white brothers, yielding neither to threats or entreaties, but remaining steadfast until their objects were attained. If there is any one thing more than another that tends to strengthen labor organizations and tends to enable them to cope with the many impositions that are forced upon the members by unscrupulous employers, who are constantly seeking to avail then'-selves of the many weaknesses that are naturally present at times in all organized bodies that one thing is a defense fund. Experience of unions having sub- stantial funds from which to sustain their members during periods of adversity, strikes or lockouts, has given evidence District 6 Proceedings Continued 165 suiTicient to convince the most skeptical of its efficacy. Our peculiar experience, however, does not harmonize in that respect. On the contrary, we are more than ever convinced that a defense fund of a national character is an absolute failure. Such has been its history in the past and will con- tinue to be its history in the future, becai.se of these facts: First, it is impossible to accumulate a fund commensurate with the demands that are constantly being made upon it. Second, the efficacy of the same is destroyed by reason of the small amount that is available during the time of trouble, and hence it fails to perform the purpose for which it is intended. Third, we believe that each district should be given the unre- stricted right to accumulate and utilize funds in such a man- ner as in the judgment of the members of that district will best serve the interest and purpose of the members. My judg- ment is that we, as miners, cannot for various reasons, hope to make a success of this fund. Neither can we liberate our- selves from levies and assessments which are so reluctantly paid while contributing to this fund. Moved by the above considerations, I would recommend that we favor a continu- ance of a defense fund, the same to be held and controlled by the districts. Strikes and Arbitration. Experiences of the past year bear evidence that strikes are an absolute necessity, and must be resorted to in order that the rights of our members may be protected and sustained. I am pleased, however, to be able to state that while we have still some unwise and unbusinesslike operators, who will concede nothing other than that which they are compelled to, yet the great majority of our operators have shown a disposiiton to deal fairly and meet your representatives to adjust the diffi- culties which in the nature of things must arise from time to time, I believe enthusiastically in the principle of conciliation, and hence would recommend that it be continued as one of the cardinal principles of our union, and that in the future we be more careful to exhaust all conciliatory measures before resorting to strikes. Arbitration — (When Fixing or Adjttsting Wages). I view differently than do many of my associates. While I know and realize that it is an enchanting phrase and tends at times to allure those to whom it is proposed, yet notwith- standing this, I am an implicit believer in the potency of a strong labor organization. A closing up of our ranks will do more to secure justice and fair play than all the arbitration boards that ever existed to take advantage of the laborers’ weakness while ostensibly proposing justice. 166 United Mine Workers of America Equalisation of Day’s Wages. Another year’s experience in the field only tends to strengthen the observation made by your officers one year ago, that to establish a uniform rate of day wages was absolutely impossible. Our views have been more than justified the past year. Owing to the dissimilarity in conditions, together with the refusal on the part of the day men to join our union, makes it, in my estimation, useless to exhaust our strength in that direction. I would, therefore, recommend the formulation of a graded scale to harmonize with the different conditions that exist in the various districts. Mining Machinery. The tendency of the age is to substitute machinery for hand. This is noticeably so in our business, and every day machines are increasing in numbers and improving in efficiency. The displacement of hand by this method has only begun. It is matterless if we approve or disapprove. My judgment is that mining machinery is but in its infancy, and hence we should prepare ourselves to yield with as much grace as possible to the inevitable, and turn our attention to secur- ing the best terms possible. That the conditions surrounding machine miners is unfair and unjust no one conversant with said conditions will attempt to deny. The arrangements made at our last convention in reference thereto were not carried out, owing to the peculiar combination of circumstances that led up to the memorable disappointment of May 1. Again the machine miners are here asking your aid and assistance in procuring to them a fair and equitable adjustment of their scale in order that they may secure prices commensurate with the work performed, and that you as pick men may enjoy a fair share of the work that is to be done during the year to come. Deficient Work. As an organization, we should aim to adjust prices so as to guarantee each and every locality, as far as possible, a fair opportunity of compensation with their neighbors. It is, how- ever, manifestly unfair that we, as miners, should bear the whole burden that naturally obtains by reason of impurities in the veins of coal, and other imdesirable but natural ad- vantages. Hence, I would recommend that there be estab- lished a deficient scale, such as now exists in certain localities in Ohio, and that the same be formulated and presented to our national convention, with instructions to introduce the same throughout this competitive field. District 6 Proceedings Continued 167 Overweight. A constant cause of complaint is the system practiced in various localities whereby the operators appropriate all the coal in excess of a certain limit. While we recognize that there should be some security to the companies’ property, yet we deny their right to confiscate our product in the manner in which it is done. I would again recommend the establish- ment of a fund to be controlled by a committee at the various mines, the revenues derived from this source to be applied to the relief of members in good standing who might be so unfor- tunate as to become disabled while at work in or around the mines. Shorter Hours. The demand for shorter hours has arisen among the min- ing craft, not so much from the conviction that their present hours are injurious to health (though in many cases that is true), not so much from the theory that shorter hours means higher wages (though that claim is sound), but from the strangely felt desire for additional opportunities for recrea- tion and the enjoyment of life. Incidentally, the eight hours may lead to higher wages, also it may benefit our health as miners. Both considerations should present themselves to each and every man who toils in our mines ; but the real force that gives vitality to the movement is the longing for a brighter and a fuller life. Miners are everywhere growing tired of being regarded as working slaves. We wish some enjoyment as well as labor. On the other hand we have hun- dreds of idle miners denied the opportunity of work because they are overworked. By reducing hours, room will be made and thousands of our idle brothers will be absorbed and given the much desired opportunity of earning a sustenance for themselves and families. Again, eight hours means employ- ment and bread for thousands that are idle and hungry. It means an effectual cure for the enforced idleness of men ren- dered so by the rapid development of machinery. It means a certain increase of wages by stopping competition between employed and unemployed. These are briefly some of the ad- vantages to be secured by the eight-hour workday. The failure on the part of the miners of the United States to inaugurate the fight for the establishment of the eight-hour workday on May 1, as had been anticipated, has naturally caused men to inquire as to the reasons. Like the balance of my craft, I was full of hope and expectation, only to have these hopes dashed and my expectations blighted. Yet, not- withstanding the disappointment, we are still sanguine of ultimate success. But whether that success can be obtained 168 United Mine Workers of America unassisted by our organization, is extremely doubtful. My judgment is that the hope of securing the shorter workday by our organization alone is fictitious, and hence I would rec- ommend that our energies and resources be bent to securing the passage of a law by the Congress of the United States, declaring that eight hours shall constitute a day’s work in and around the mines. Weighing Coal Before Screening. If there is any practice about our mines that is more railed at or more blamed than another, it is the system of screening coal. There has been a constant agitation looking to the abolition of screens, or the establishment of the system of weighing coal as it comes from the mines. I have always held that the proper place to seek redress from this evil is from the legislators of our state, because we shall not be asked to strike for the procurement of that which it is the function and duty of the state to grant us. I would recommend that this con- vention demand from the present legislators the passage of such a law. In this you have the hearty co-operation, and we are guaranteed the enthusiastic support, of all organized crafts in Ohio. Changes i/ii the Constitution. Experiences of past years have demonstrated that it is un- wise and injurious to our cause to announce to the world our contemplated actions, I would recommend that you change your constitution and time of holding our convention until April, thus removing the possibilities of the operators fore- stalling our movements. I would recommend the abolition of the auditor’s office, the same being unnecessary. I would recommend in its stead a committee whose duty it shall be to meet two or three days prior to the convening of the convention, to audit the books and pass upon all creden- tials, thus saving time and money to our constituents. I would recommend changing our constitution authorizing the section to make a weekly report instead of quarterlj^ as at present. I would recommend that the initiation fee be made not less than two dollars and fifty cents. During my official connection with the organization I have done mj^ duty as I understood it. With what ability I pos- sessed I have sought to advance the cause and promote the interest of my craft, and what has been lacking in me in ability I hope I will be given credit for having attempted to make up in the fervor with which I have espoused our common District 6 Proceedings Continued 169 interest and in the sincerity with which I have tried to per- form the functions of the honorable position to which the miners of Ohio, two years ago, were pleased to elevate me. The feebleness of my performance may, perhaps, be pardoned in consideration of the noble objects we have had in view. A man can only put into his work what is in him. If what I have put into our work has been pronounced unworthy of the great task undertaken, we are content to retire with the poor merit of good intentions and to leave to abler men the sub- stantial merit of effectively promoting the cause. And I de- sire to state that I am extremely thankful to members and officers for the many acts of kindness shown me during my administration, and let me assure you that in my retirement I will be ever ready and willing to do what I can for the inter- est of the organization and its members. And now, my friends, in terminating our official relations, I most earnestly enjoin you to give to my successor the same hearty co-operation and assistance that I will have the pleas- ure of thanking you for having accorded to me during the past year. Moved, that the address become a part of the proceedings. Adopted. Report of the secretary-treasurer: Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Convention: In compliance with our accustomed rules and regulations, I have the honor to submit to you and through you to the mem- bers of District 6, United Mine Workers of America, this the second annual report of the financial condition of this state association. Quarterly reports, according to the constitution, have been submitted during the year in our official journal : Income. Total on hand January 28, 1891 $1,532.84 First quarter 1,265.81 Second quarter 1,426.71 Third quarter 1,404.11 Fourth quarter 1,426.21 Total $7,055.68 Expenditures. J. P. Jones, salary and expenses $1,468.24 J. Nugent, salary and expenses 1,284.05 W. C. Pearce, salary and expenses 1,138.30 170 United Mine Workers of America Executive Work. Joslma Tliomas 249.40 Edwin James ; ; 121.9.3 R. L. Davis 106.71 Charles Call 96.00 Hugh Lyncli .3.5.20 Edmund Tliomas 19.10 Jolm Fahy 19.10 William Nixon 28.00 L. M. Beatty 27.80 P. .1. Brown 20.25 W. E. Farms , 19.10 David Love 19.00 Isaac .Tones 19.00 .J. .T. Penrod 16.35 R. C. West 14.00 Fred Dileher 16.90 L. U. 13, Bridgeport 1 38.35 .James O'Donnell 12.75 David Barcley 10.00 Thomas Winning 7. 10.00 John Snedden 10.70 H. L. Runkle 9.85 W. 11. Lewis 9.85 .1. II. Levering 9.85 Thomas Cole 6.30 S. A. Wangle!’ 6.30 Cameron Miller 6.40 iMichael Ratehford 9.25 Charles Riley 3.00 H. Pugh 3.00 Miscellaneous. Pat. McBryde, defense fund 15.85 M. H. Donahue, legal services 53.75 Donation to Pittsburg miners 100.00 Postage 105.46 Stationery and printing 118.60 Office expenses — rent, furniture, coal, etc 156.50 Telegrams 45.52 Express charges 15.04 Hall rents for convention, etc 32.90 Tax, Ohio State Trades and Labor Assembly i 25.00 Money orders and drafts 3.76 Total .85,536.43 Total income from .January 28, 1891, to December 31, 1891 87,055.68 Total expenditures from .January 28, 1891, to December 31, 1891 5,536.43 Balance on hand December 31, 1891 81,519.25 Receipts from January 1 to 19, 1892 207.15 Balance on hand .81.726.40 District 6 Proceedings Continued 171 The decision of the organization not to strike on the first of May for the eight-hour day caused in some localities quite an amount of trouble; those places that were well organized expected to have the eight-hour day problem settled, if they had to fight for the same; and in order to meet the daily de- mands for some of the officers to explain the actual condi- tions, the members of the board were sometimes called upon for assistance and sent into the field to explain matters to our members. While we have not had anything that caused the district at large to enter into a strike, yet we have had very many local grievances, some of which were very serious and critical to decide, causing many conferences with the coal operators and requiring delegates from the places in trouble to assist in adjusting the same, expenses of which were paid out of the district fund. My experiences during the year with local and mine secre- taries have been most satisfactory, happy and harmonious ; we have worked together without a shadow to disturb our peace. In conclusion, I wish to express my appreciation of the uniform kindness and consideration shown me by all. We have tried to serve you faithfully and to give you our best endeavors. I can assure you that we endeavored to manage your financial affairs with closest economy, prudence and dis- cretion. And now as we take up the line of march and step into the unknown, let us renew our efforts in the cause we love and aim for the continued success of our union. Respectfully, W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer, District 6, United Mine Workers of America. REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE. We, your committee appointed to audit the books of Secre- tary-Treasurer W. C. Pearce, having complied with that duty, beg leave to state that the result of our examination is satis- factory in every particular and the condition of the books warrants us in saying that all receipts and expenditures are clearly and systematically set forth and reflect great credit upon our secretary-treasurer in the duties assigned him dur- ing the past year. Committee — John A. Williams, Charles A. Robbins, John C. Curtis, Charles Call, R. L. Davis, J. L. Sergent, Joshua Thomas. Moved that the report become a part of the proceedings. Adopted. 172 United Mine Workers of America Neither proposition having had the necessary majority the question of defense fund was referred back to the locals. Vice-President Penna was introduced and addressed the convention. Be it resolved that we return our sincere and heartfelt thanks to the Rev. Father Kuhns, of Massillon, for his fair and impartial decision rendered against the breaker system. Adopted. Resolved, That the United Mine Workers’ Journal and the Miner’s Independent of Massillon, be recognized as the organs of District 6. Approved. Motion that the report of the committee on resolutions be adopted as a whole and the committee discharged. Adopted. Report of the committee on grievances : 1. Whereas, It has been reported in our district that mines receiving Hocking Valley prices for screened coal are mining run of mine coal at less than five-sevenths the price of screened coal, the price established in the Hocking Valley ; therefore, we, your committee, recommend that no coal shall be mined run of mine, for less than five-sevenths the price of screened coal. Adopted. The committee on constitution suggested amendments for time of holding annual convention in April instead of January : CO elect officers immediately after organizing the convention; and the appointment of a committee to examine credentials prior to the convention, which were adopted ; but amendments to increase initiation fee to $5, election of officers by popular vote instead of being elected by the delegates, and increasing salaries, were deferred. The Hon. A. Roy, Hon. S. Llewellyn, Hon. John A. Thomas and John Kane addressed the convention. A vote of thanks being tendered the speakers the con- vention adjourned to meet on Friday morning. District 6 Proceedings Continued 173 FRIDAY, JANUARY 22. The convention was called to order, with Vice-President Nugent in the chair. The Hon, N. R, Hysell being present was called upon and addressed the convention. He said in part: I am glad to meet you all, I am ever ready to advance your interests and before I would do anything to injure the craft to which I belong, I am ready to go back to the pick and shovel. The toilers alone need our sympathy, the millionaires can do without it. If it were not for our social chat and inter- course with our fellowmen, life would not be worth living; go out in the path you have marked out; remember the more hours you work you are more pliable in the hands of your employers; you who work ten hours get down to nine,- and you who work nine get down to eight. The shorter the hours a man works the harder he is to handle. Keep your ranks solidified and intact; build up your organization, and my prayer will always be: “May success crown your efforts.” President Jones in a few well-chosen remarks introduced Governor McKinley who said it was a great pleasure for him to meet the miners in convention, although he was no stranger to them. He was pleased at the progress made by the workers of the country, a progress that could never have been at- tained without organization. He was interested in the wel- fare of the miners, as a large portion of the community in which he resided were engaged in the coal industry. He was well acquainted with their president, Mr. Jones, and the highly efficient chief of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Mr. McBride. He understood that strikes of a general character were a thing of the past in the State of Ohio, thanks to the strength and conservation of your organization. Anything that will tend to promote the interest of the miners will have his hearty co-operation. He did not come to make a speech, he said, but to thank the delegates for their kind invitation and to wish them success in their deliberations. Speeches having been made by Secretary of State Hon. Dan Ryan, Senator Eckley, Representatives Taylor, Britain, Llewellyn and Thomas, the chair introduced the Hon. John McBride, who was received with cheers, and said : 174 United Mine Workers of America It pleased him to meet the miners of Ohio. He might with propriety call them fellow miners although the room he oc- cupied in the state house had the advantage of the ones they occupied in the mine ; the air while not all that could be desired was much better than that of most of the miners, and then the salary — well he could assure them it was lifted with commendable regularity and spent too, for that matter. Mr. McBride then referred to organization as it used to be in Ohio and touched on the inter-state agreements. He then touched on the national organization, showed how absurd were some of the provisions of the constitution in reference to the defense fund, how they tied the hands of the national executive board and then made them responsible for some- thing they could not do. After referring to the late strike in Indiana, he analyzed the coal trade of this competitive field as shown by the statistics of the Chicago market. He gave a very interesting and at the same time an instructive review of the changing and changeable conditions of the coal trade in this competitive field as furnished by the Chicago market re- port, which covers the shipments from the different sections of this competitive field. In 1890, Illinois shipped to the Chicago market 1,709,368 tons, and in 1881, 1,684,618 tons, a loss of 14,750 tons. In 1890, Ohio shipped 434,390 tons, while in 1891 the shipments amounted to 496,049 tons, an increase of 61,659 tons. In 1890, Indiana shipped 1,381,896 tons and in 1891, 1,405,120 tons, a decrease of 76,776 tons. West Virginia and Kentucky in 1890 shipped 128,012 tons and in 1891, 140,829 tons, an increase of 12,817 tons. The review of last year’s coal production shows that Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Kentucky each increased their shipments to Chicago, whereas Indiana and Illinois, both of which had made the great increase at the expense of other states during 1888, 1889 and 1890, suffered a loss. The loss in Illinois by reason of strikes up to September 1 amounted to 87,727 tons, but by reason of strikes in the Pittsburg and Indiana districts in October, November and December, Illinois increased her shipments over the same Closing Session of District 6. 175 months in 1890 by 72,977 tons, thus making the entire loss during the year only 14,759 tons. The Pittsburg strike in September and October caused a falling off in the Pennsylvania shipments of 11,544 tons, but the strike in Indiana allowed the Pennsylvania fields to in- crease their shipments in November and December 32,485 tons. Indiana up to October had increased her shipments over 1890 by 108,183 tons, but the strike caused a falling off of 184,959 tons, or a total loss to the state of 76,776 tons during the year. While Indiana lost 184,959 tons during the strike the other states profited by her loss. Ohio had an increase of 50,127 tons, Illinois, 62,265 tons; Pennsylvania, 32,488 tons, and West Virginia and Kentucky an increase of 11,146 tons, or a total gain of 146,023 tons by the five states and only left a deficiency in the Indiana product of 28,836 tons, as compared to that of 1890 and this shortage was more than made good by an increase of 12,702 tons in the shipments of coke and 11,849 tons of anthracite coal. There are two lessons that can be learned by the figures, the absurdity of a strike in one part of the country without at least restriction in other fields, and the necessity of a de- fense fund to carry on systematic warfare. It has long been recognized that southern Illinois is the key to the situation and if the miners of Ohio were to advance they must carry the war into the enemy’s territory. He did not feel in a con- dition to make a speech but thanked them for their invitation to address them. The chair declared the convention adjourned as the time for dinner had arrived. AFTERNOON SESSION. Whereas, Our President, John P. Jones, declines to permit the use of his name as a candidate for re-election to the presi- dency of district 6 of the United Mine Workers, be it Resolved, That in his voluntary retirement from the presi- dency of the Ohio miners, we have lost a faithful, efficient, and worthy officer, and be it Resolved, That we tender President Jones a vote of thanks for his uniform kindness and courtesy to the delegates to this convention and on behalf of the miners of Ohio, be it 176 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That while we submit reluctantly to President Jones’ purpose to retire from the presidency of our organ- ization, we do so hoping that his experience and ability will be available to us and the miners of the United States in a wider field, and in a more extensive field ; be it further Resolved, That we endorse J. P. Jones for a position on the national executive board and that we instruct our representa- tives to the national convention to carry out the intent of this resolution. A telegram was read from Chris Evans as follows: Accept congratulations for success in your deliberations and may the miners’ organization of the Buckeye State still retain its former prestige and lead the vanguard of the United Mine Workers of America. Motion to proceed to the election of officers. At this point the Hon. R. M. Haseltine and John Short addressed the convention and the same was listened to verj’ attentively. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. The Chair then appointed as tellers, John Williams, Thomas Simister and Hugh Lewis, who reported the following officers elected : John Nugent, President; Cameron Miller, Vice-President; W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer. Members of Executive Board: John Fahy, Charles Call, R. L. Davis, Joshua Thomas, William Fitzgerald. Motion — That the executive board be selected to attend the joint convention of miners and operators. Carried. Motion — That John Nugent and John Fahy attend the Industrial conference to be held at St. Louis in Februaiy, 1892. The following delegates were elected to attend the Ohio Trades’ Assembly: J. P. Jones, W. C. Pearce, C. Call. Motion — That the officers of district 6 pay per capita tax to the Ohio Trades and Labor Assembly. Carried. The convention then adjourned, to meet on the second Tues- day in April, 1893. Second National Convention 177 CHAPTER VIII. SECOND ANNUAL MEETING OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. Columbus, Ohio, February 9, 1892. The convention was called to order, with President John B. Rae in the chair. W. C. Pearce was appointed assistant secretary. REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE. The credentials committee, Dan Lennon, John Horn, and P. H. Donnelly, reported the following delegates entitled to seats in the convention : District 2 : P. McBryde, E. D. Davis, Thos. McEvoy, T. A. Bradley, Dan Lennon, James White, Joseph Williams, Samuel Hunter. District 3: Thomas Haggerty. District 5: George Fletcher, Peter Sample, Michael Mc- Quade, John Costello, Matthew Pistorius. District 6: Thomas McGough, Lewis Long, James F. Gallagher, J. W. Butterworth, Samuel Conrad, James M. Banks, H. B. Jones, R. Weymueller, Landy Steenrod, Joseph B. Hier, Sherman Glasgow, S. E. Holt, Joseph Bell, John E. Seaverd, M. Ratchford, Hiram Deem, W. E. Applegarth, Ed Abrams, C. T. Barnett, Morgan Lewis, John Nugent, George Craig, Bernard Fuller, Charles Bailey, Thomas McMahan, James Sargent, William Embelton, Fred Dilcher, John Fahy, Peter Dickerhoff, W. H. Crawford, Thomas Winning, John N. Davis, J. P. Jones, Joseph Curran, Zena Emery, Eugene Taiclet, Jesse Devore, Henry Vincent, Nimrod Landy, John P. Williams, Michael Jackson, William E. Farms, Hugh Mc- Kenna, Cameron Miller, Morgan Evans, William Lemott, Davis Mason, John E. Morgan, S. A. Wangler, John Mclnerny, John Horn, Joshua Thomas, R. L. Davis, Robert Burden, James Pritchard, W. C. Pearce, J. H. Lovsey, M. Herrington, William C. Brown, A. Levering, T. F. Morarity, Thomas 178 United Mine Workers of America Dando, Asa Robinson, George Aichele, Charles Williams, William Meadows, Jonathan Coslett. Pomeroy District: F. G. Jones, Thomas Carroll. District 11: Winfield Sponsler, Simpson Newport, M. Comesky, John H. Kennedy, Samuel Amour, William Van Horn, James L. Summers, James Roe, George Taylor, R. S. Mann, P. H. Penna, John Kane, John Templeton, Samuel Cooper. District 12: James R. Monaghan, J. W. Crawford, John Jasper, M. J. Goings, P. H. Donnelly, James D. Courtney. District 13: Julius Fromm. District 17: Jerry Meade, Samuel Binns, William Burch, David Kidder, Elisha Donnelly, P. J. Hackett, James E. Hall, Thomas Farry. District 19: W. C. Webb, G. McClelland, William R. Reilly. Moved that the report of the committee be adopted and the committee continued. Adopted. President Rae informed the delegates that arrangements had been made with Governor McKinley and Mayor Karb of Columbus to welcome the delegates, and appointed P. H. Don- nelly of Illinois and John Nugent of Ohio to wait on Governor McKinley, and P. H. Penna and Thomas Farry to escort Mayor Karb to the convention. The chair then appointed the following committee : Order of business — T. A. Bradley, Pennsylvania; Michael Ratchford, Ohio ; W. E. Farms, Ohio ; Simpson Newport, Indi- ana; John Jasper, Illinois; Jerry Meade, West Virginia. GOVERNOR MCKINLEY’S ADDRESS. I have run away for a moment from my official duties to give you greeting and to welcome you, the representatives of the miners, to our state’s capital city. There is nothing too good for you in Ohio; we feel honored and gratified to have you in our midst today. You represent one of the most suc- cessful and most important interests in this, the greatest iron producing country of the world ; your product furni.shes the motive power which creates the great wealth of our country. There is coal mined in 25 states of the Union, the coal area is 300,000 square miles, the entire coal area of the world is 400,000, so that we represent three-fourths of the whole. Second National Convention 179 In 1850 we mined but 7,250,000 tons of coal, in 1880 we had increased to 71,000,000. Last year our production had reached over 100 million tons. We have zinc and lead £ind gold and silver and nickel and, although it was once said that we had no tin in this country, that it all came from Great Britain or the Straits of Malacca, yet tin has been found in the Dakotas, California and in two or more Southern states. The more tin is manufactured the more coal will be used, the more men wanted to mine it and the more wages will be paid. We have got everything in this country, like the sign in the variety shops, “Anything you can’t see, just call for it.” It is a great industry you represent, and the third state in coal production in the United States bids you welcome. I am glad to meet you this morning but will not longer delay you in the business which has called you together. At the conclusion of the governor’s remarks,, which were received with cheers by the convention, his excellency with- drew, and the convention was about to proceed to business when Mayor Karb arrived. He addressed the convention in a few well-chosen remarks. The committee on rules and order of business reported that the convention convene at 9 a. m., recess from 12 to 1 :30 p. m. and adjourn at 5 p. m. ; that Cushing’s Manual be the guide for business transacted in all cases of parliamentary dispute. The president appointed the following committees : Constitution — P. H. Penna, Indiana; W. E. Farms, Ohio; Morgan Lewis, Ohio; George Fletcher, Pennsylvania; W. C. Webb, Kentucky; Elisha Donnelly, West Virginia; M. J. Go- ings, Illinois. Resolutiotis — Fred Dilcher, Ohio; Dan Lennon, Pennsyl- vania; M. Jackson, Ohio; William Van Horn, Indiana; James E. Hall, West Virginia; Joseph Williams, Pennsylvania, John Jasper, Illinois. Grievance — Michael Ratchford, Ohio; Thomas McGough, Ohio; Thomas McEvoy, Pennsylvania; Simpson Newport, In- diana; William Burch, West Virginia; Thomas Carrol, Pome- roy, Ohio ; J. W. Crawford, Illinois. Officers’ Report — James White, Pennsylvania; John Cos- tello, Pennsylvania; Joshua Thomas, John Nugent, Ohio; J. H. Kennedy, Indiana; J. R. Monaghan, Illinois; George B. McClelland, Tennessee. 180 United Mine Workers of America Officers’ Salaries — John P. Jones, James Pritchard, Ohio; E. D. Davis, Pennsylvania; Thomas Haggerty, Pennsylvania; George Taylor, Indiana; P. H. Donnelly, Illinois, Thomas Farry, West Virginia. Finance onid Defense Fund — Julius Fromm, Iowa; John Templeton, Indiana; John Fahy, Cameron Miller, Ohio; Thomas Bradley, Pennsylvania; W. R. Reilly, Tennessee; M. McQuade, Pennsylvania. Districts — M. Comesky, Indiana; Ed. Abraham, Jonathan Coslett, Ohio; Sam Hunter, Pennsylvania; David Kidder, West Virginia; James Courtney, Illinois; Peter Sample, Pennsylvania. Distribution — Dan Lennon, Pennsylvania; James Roe, Ind- iana ; W. Embelton, Thomas McEvoy. The convention then adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order, with President Rae in the chair. president’s address. To the Representatives of the United Mine Workers, Gentle- men : It may be safely said that this is the most reliably repre- sentative convention of mine workers that has ever assembled in this country, as the past year has been one that has tried men’s souls. The disappointments and discouragements we have met have weeded out the unstable and only those remain that are not found wanting. It will be the duty of this con- vention to find out the causes of the failures and disappoint- ments of the past year, if not to locate the blame, at least to make such provision as shall, as far as possible, prevent a recurrence. It would be out of place for me to recommend any definite policy, yet I think it eminently proper that I should receive your careful consideration. The first of these is the question of organization; no more important question will demand your attention. As the stream cannot rise above its fountain, so the numerical strength of an organization very largely determines its influence and work. The startling fact that out of 300,000 miners and mine laborers in the United States, less than one-sixth are organized, should commend serious thought. Until a working force of sufficient stren^h can be obtained we must labor under very serious difficulties. Besides finding out the causes for the small membership the Second National Convention 181 whole force of the organization should be devoted to mission- ary work. What can Central Pennsylvania, Western Pennsyl- vania, Ohio and Indiana hope for, with Illinois, Maryland, and West Virginia as they are now? To bring those fields into line is the question of the hour. Until this is done but little progress can be made. Constitution. Labor organizations are frequently injured by unwise con- stitutional provisions. I have an inherent dread of too ranch law. The tendency of conventions, to embody in the constitu- tion provisions restricting executive officers as if their tenden- cies were criminal and inimical to the welfare of the members should be avoided. Of this class is the last clause of Section 2, Article IV, of the constitution and should be repealed. An examination of the secretary-treasurer’s report will show that the clause referred to has caused an outlay of thousands of dollars that have been worse than wasted. Elect to office men whose integrity and devotion to labor are unquestioned, men of common sense and business capacity and then leave them as untrammeled as possible. Section 3 of Article III of the constitution is too indefinite and should be amended. Revenue. One of the chief elements of strength or weakness in an organization is the amount of money available on which to do business. It is no exception in this respect to other business houses. It would be very unwise to abolish what is now known as “The Defense Fund.” The real cause of dissatisfaction is its inade(Juacy. Too much is also expected of it. The defense of prices and enforcement of scale rates are questions in which employer and employed are mutually interested. In Eng- land, mine operators realize this and consequent responsibility, and do their share. The time has come when the help and co-operation of a large number of our employers can be se- cured. This should be done. We should be prepared to do our share. Instead of abolishing the defense fund adopt such means as will make it more efficient. Don’t expect your officers to do great things on nothing. Strikes. While I realize that the time has not come when strikes will be unnecessary, our experience during the year tends to emphasize the sentiment of John Burns, the great English labor leader, that workmen are inclined to trust more to strikes than the conditions will warrant. “Combined capital, when it is to its interest to do so, can defeat any labor organ- ization in the world.” We have had four notable strikes dur- 182 United Mine Workers of America ing the year, besides quite a number of local ones of more or less consequence. The four were notable, (1) because they should never have taken place, (2) yet involving entire dis- tricts, and were more general in those districts than any former ones had been, (3) all were failures. The coke strike was the natural harvest from the seed sown in that district during the latter part of the previous year, and was forced upon us with all its consequences by the last convention. The Iowa strike was the result of the inexperienced buoyancy of a young organization in connection with the complications of the 1st of May. The Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, strike was the legitimate outgrowth of the selfishness that disrupted the inter-state movement. The Indiana strike was something similar, and had this in addition : The undue advantage taken by the block coal operators at a time when the men were at their mercy. All of these strikes placed your officers in most humiliating positions ; made a system of special pleading necessary that under no circumstances could we again become parties to. These strikes also demonstrate the hopelessness of sectional strikes, and the necessity of making sure that, before a strike is inaugurated, we should be sure that the conditions are favorable. Screens. Considerable progress has been made during the year toward solving the screen question. It is better understood, greater unanimity prevails, and many of the obstacles have been removed. Favorable legislation has been obtained in Illinois, Indiana and West Virginia. Penns 3 dvania had all the legislation necessary. A gross weight law should be passed in Ohio and I think can be, if properly pressed. The present year should see the system of weighing coal before screening generally adopted. Eight Hours. Under this caption the question of a shorter workday' is now considered. I shall not undertake to discuss compli- cations of May 1 in this report, as too much space would be required. Suffice it to say that the unhappj^ experiences of that period demonstrated that the miners were not readj' for such a movement as would bring success. The real difficulties to be met are also better known. Nevertheless we have made some progress. The justness of the demand on the part of the miners is now generally recognized, and material reductions in the hours of work have been obtained in several districts. My opinion is that when we have things so that we can hope to enforce an eight-hour workday', we shall get it without trouble. Second National Convention 183 This convention will end the relations we have sustained to each other during the past few years. Those years have had their trials and disappointments, also their pleasures. Not the least of these are the harmony that exists and the progress made. Let me earnestly ask for my successor a cordial, undivided support; avoid all unnecessary and captious criticisms, as you cannot indulge in such without injuring your organization, generally and locally. The man who seeks notoriety by attacks on officers is an enemy to progress. The man who does not know how to follow is totally unfit to lead even locally. Your officers’ duties are heavy enough without the membership seeking to increase the load. In returning to you the trust you committed to me, while experiencing a great sense of relief, I shall be none the less solicitous for the progress of our organization and the betterment of our craft. I need not say that in the future wherever my lot may be cast or however I may be employed you will find me true to the principles to the promotion of which so many years of my life have been devoted. Deeply grateful for your suffrages, cordial support and forbearance, I am yours in the cause of labor, J. B. Rae. Report of secretary-treasurer, which was as follows, was received and given to the committee on distribution : Gentlemen of the Convention: Having, in accordance with Article 2, Section 4, of the constitution sent to the locals an itemized report of all moneys received and disbursed by me for three quarters and as the fourth statement will appear in the next issue of the Journal, which will be in the hands of the delegates during the present session, I have thought it unnecessary to take up your valu- able time with more than a general summary. The following is the amount of all moneys received and expended from February 17, 1891, to January 31, 1892: Income. Received from Robert Watehorn .^17,570.3.3 Percentage of income for general purposes 10,226.91 Income from sale of supplies, including percentage frcjm soap and coffee 1,0.55.75 Percentage of income for defense purposes, including .^i2,721.65 col- lected for Indiana strike .31.902.37 Miscellaneous income, including ,$2,000 from A. P. of L 3.021.75 Income from United Mine Workers’ .lournal 6,248.67 Total ,.$70,025.78 184 United Mine Workers of America Expenditwres. Officers’ salaries, organizers, etc $10,137.14 Supplies, telegrams, office expenditures, etc 1,575.21 For defense purposes 42,158.25 Expended from miscellaneous fund 2,957.12 United Mine tVorkers’ Journal 6,602.66 Total $63,430.38 Balance on hand January 31, 1892 $6,595.40 Membership and Defense Fund. Our membership and defense fund are so wrapped together that it is impossible to speak of the one without taking the other into consideration. When we last met, there were 32,000 miners and mine laborers represented in convention; today, 20,000 will cover our entire membership. The falling off, although large, is less than what might be expected, taking into consideration the disturbed state of the coal trade and the number of strikes which occurred during the past year. The strike on the Monongahela river and Raymond City, West Virginia, having been inaugurated January 1, 1890, were legacies placed in the hands of your executive board. To these the delegates of the last convention added the great strike in the coke regions of Pennsylvania. Previous to the 1st of May, assistance had been rendered to the striking brothers on the Monongahela river, the coke regions. Moun- tain Region, Pennsylvania; Springfield and Sparta, Illinois; Coshocton, Wadsworth and Cambridge, Ohio; and Raymond I City, West Virginia; the latter place being recognized as still ! on strike. The strikes named not only cost the organiza- tion over $20,000, but lost 7,000 members in the coke regions. Coshocton, Sparta or Springfield (with the exception of one local recently organized) are not found on the books of the union. The deferment of the eight-hour day was not followed by that peace and tranquillity expected. Many of our miners were forced into a strike. In Iowa , although but recently organized, the miners contended bravely for the eight-hour day. Some were successful, but the greater number were defeated. Again defeat lost us 1,000 members aiid cost us nearly $2,000. In Illinois , the new laws as to weighing of coal, weekly pay law, et^ brought on a friction between the operators and miners of that state which caused months of idle time. The treasury being very low, we were unable to render them proper assistance. The miners became dissatis- fied, and dropped from the union. We spent nearly $5,000 in that state, and lost 3,000 members. In the early part of June, there must have been 30,000 miners locked out or on Second National Convention 185 strike, 10,000 of which, under ordinary circumstances, were entitled to aid from the defense fund. To meet this vast expenditure, it would be necessary to have 1,004,438 members paying into the organization. We were without the former, and it was impossible to have the latter, as not more than one- third of the number work in and around the coal mines of the United States. The strikes I have named were followed by the uncalled- for strike in the Pittsburg district. We lost members ther,e. because we did not endorse the action of the miners. Thi^ strike was scarcely ended when the late ill-advised and- dis- astrous strike took place in Indiana. It is too early to contem- plate what the results will be. ..-k; From the foregoing summary it is plain jdhat, while our miners cry for national organization they continue to practice local methods. , T"'. . . V* ‘ 'd. I have endeavored to give a plain#., unvarnished statement as to our numbers and the defense fund, knowing that you, having the facts in your possession, will make such provision as will prevent a repetitio,ii^ of those local troubles which did so much to injure the organization last year. Our Official Organ. At the last annual convention, your committee on ways and means brought in a recommendation that a newspaper be established by the organization; that the paper be set on foot by money from the national treasury; they also recom- mended that a five-cent levy be assessed on all members, and that each local subscribe for at least one copy of the paper. The recommendation was referred to the incoming Executive Board. In accordance with the above recommendation, the Na- tional Executive Board instructed the president and secretary to purchase the necessary outfit, and proceed with the publica- tion of an official organ to be called The United Mine Workers’ Journal. The Board did not deem it prudent to call for the five-cent levy, but were of the opinion that each local ought to subscribe for at least one copy. On April 16, the first number of the paper was published. From that time up to the present there has been no complaint as to the appearance of the paper or to the matter contained therein. We are of the opinion that much good has resulted to the craft from its publication, and believe its continuance will materially strengthen the organi- zation. The official organ of the United Mine Workers ought to be, not only self-supporting, but a source of revenue to the organi- 186 United Mine Workers of America zation. Up to the present time, if we calculate from the stand- point of dollars and cents, this is seemingly not the case. Looking, however, from the broad standpoint of the good of the Union, the basis on which the Journal was established, it has been a success. The loss in dollars is not as great as would appear at first glance, as there has been a saving to the organi- zation in the printing of balance sheets, circulars, postage, etc., of at least $300, and there is due for advertising $467.86. Had the locals carried out the spirit of the recommendation of the ways and means committee, the balance would have been in favor of the Journal, as no less than four hundred locals failed to subscribe for the paper, although all of them received it for at least three months. As there was no con- stitutional provision to compel them to pay, I could only stop sending the paper. Much praise is due to Samuel T. Croyle for his untiring efforts in securing subscribers, as to that, in a great measure, is due the rapid increase in our circulation. On November 1, Brother John Kane assumed editorial control of the Journal, and his great knowledge of mining affairs has placed your official organ in the front rank of labor papers in the country. I heartily recommend that your incoming Executive Board be empowered to make any addi- tional outlay necessary in purchasing a mailer, type, and such other material as the rapidly increasing circulation will call for. Although the present year has been one of general un- rest among the miners, the local and district officials have been very kind and forbearing, and to them I owe a sincere debt of gratitude. In the increased work of my office, through the establishment of the Journal, I have been materially helped by my indefatigable assistant, Brother George Doug- las, and to him I am sincerely thankful. To those whom I may have differed with during the year, I would say my opinions have at all times been expressed for what I considered not only the best interest of the organiza- tion, but of the miners at large, and while desiring to be on friendly terms with all, the duties of an official of a labor organization, if faithfully performed, will, for the time being, make him enemies. I cannot hope to be an exception to the rule, and if, during my term of office, I have caused any feel- ing, I trust it will fall before the great work before us of making the United Mine Workers the most powerful organi- zation in America. P. McBryde. Second National Convention 187 REPORT OF THE AUDITING COMMITTEE. After making a careful and thorough examination of all books, papers, vouchers, receipts, etc., in connection with the national office, including the provisional quarterly reports made by the general executive board, that the accounts are not only correct, but are positively kept in a first-class, busi- nesslike way, and in this connection it may not be amiss to observe to the delegates here assembled that the Mine Work- ers of America are to be congratulated upon the progress made toward the efficient and businesslike management of their craft affairs in an association, without which they can hope for no improvement. We congratulate the officers and their associates in the work of the office, and as a matter of justice to them all we submit that all work in its most minute and detailed parts is being performed in the most improved manner. To all members who wish to see the detailed statement of receipts nnd expenditures we would suggest that they consult the printed quarterly reports. Respectfully submitted, Dan Lennon, John Horn, P. H. Donnelly. Moved, that the convention adjourn until tomorrow morn- ing, to give time for report of committees. Carried. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 9. The convention was called to order at 9 A. M., with Presi- dent Rae in the chair. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS. Resolved, That the constitution be so revised as to read that the popular vote be taken on the election of officers and all important questions, instead of the delegate vote. Con- curred in — 59 to 52. We would recommend to the forthcoming national conven- tion that the legislative demands of organized miners for laws which are of a national character, such as weekly pay law, gross weight law, truck store law, etc., be made the demands of the craft in each coal producing state of the Union before their respective legislatures, and the extension of such laws to the Indian Territory as will tend to prevent such disasters as the one which recently took place at Krebs, Indian Territory. Concurred in. 188 United Mine Wokkers of America The time of recess having arrived, the convention ad- journed, to meet at 1:30 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION, After much discussion, the convention decided that the President’s salary should be $1,500, Vice-President’s $1,000, and Secretary-Treasurer’s $1,200 per year, and the wages of Executive Board members, when engaged in official service, $3 per day, with expenses. On the election of officers, W. B. Wilson having withdrawn as a candidate, John McBride was elected President; P. H. Penna Vice-President, and Patrick McBryde Secretary- Treasurer, the latter suggesting that the salary of Secretary- Treasurer be fixed at $1,000, which was finally agreed to. A telegram having been read from President Gompers and Secretary Evans, of the American Federation of Labor, on motion it was accepted and the President ordered to make a suitable reply. The convention then adjourned. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11. Convention called to order by President J. B. Rae. After a few grievances reported had been disposed of, a National Executive Board was elected as follows: J. P. Jones, M. F. Moran, W. C. Webb, James White. Delegates elected to the American Federation of Labor convention: John McBride, P. H. Penna, W. C. Pearce. Al- ternates, J. A. Crawford, P. McBryde, John Kane. President Rae said the time had come when he would avail himself of the privilege of vacating the chair. He paid a glowing tribute to his successor, and tendered the gavel to President John McBride. President McBride then took the chair. Moved, that we tender a hearty vote of thanks to the retir- ing officers, and that we elect them honorarj-' members of our organization by a standing vote. By this vote. Brothers Rae, Wilson and Kane became hon- orary members of the United Mine Workers. After a few remarks from Brothers Rae, Nugent and Wil- son, the convention adjourned. Second National Convention 189 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12. The convention was called to order, with Vice-President Penna in the chair. COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTION. Whereas, The necessity for a better mining law, to pro- tect the health and lives of mine workers in the territories is most painfully apparent from the recent terrible disaster at Krebs, Indian Territory, therefore, be it Resolved, That this convention intrust our National President to select some competent representative miner to accompany him to Washington, D. C., and there have prepared and presented to both houses of our National Congress “A bill” the provisions of which shall secure the necessary safe- guards to our Territorial mine workers, as the justice and necessity of the case may require. — P. H. Donnelly. (Car- ried.) Whereas, The miners of Evansville, Ind., have formed a co-operative mining company, believing that only by that means would they be able to hold their organization and cope with the coal combine of that place; and. Whereas, the said coal combine have used every effort to break down the organization and defeat the men; therefore, be it - « I Resolved, That we, the United Mine Workers of America, in convention assembled, heartily endorse the miners of Evansville in their efforts against the coal monopoly. (Adopted.) AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order by President J. Mc- Bride in the chair. Special business relations between Knights of Labor and United Mine Workers of America. Moved, that the committee on constitution be instructed to put a clause in the constitution that Local Assemblies and Local Unions, when transacting trade matters, will be gov- erned by the constitution of the U. M. W. of A. Carried. FINANCE AND DEFENSE FUND REPORT. Whereas, The defense fund is inadequate to meet the requirements for which it was created, therefore, we recom- mend that the defense fund be abolished and, owing to the increase that will be in the expenses for the next year, we recommend that the per capita tax be increased to 10 cents 190 United Mine Workers of America per month per member. We recommend that the National Executive Board be empowered to direct a levy on all mem- bers as they may deem necessary for men in trouble. We recommend that the defense fund now in the hands of the Treasurer be used for general purposes. Julius Fromm, J. A. Templeton, W. R. REiLL-i, Cameron Miller, John Fahy, M. McQuade, T. A. Bradley. Motion, that the report be concurred in. Amendment — That at least 5 cents be used for working purposes. Amendment carried. SATURDAY MORNING FEBRUARY 13. The convention was called to order, Vice-President P. H. Penna in the chair. Motion, that the convention take a recess, in order to give the respective committees time to make reports. Carried. AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order, with President Mc- Bride in the chair. Motion, that two additional members of the National Ex- ecutive Board be elected. Carried. J. A. Crawford, Illinois, and W. Scott, Iowa, were elected by acclamation. On motion, President John McBride, delegate to the late convention of American Federation of Labor, was called upon to report on the same. President McBride having delivered his report, it was moved that it be accepted. Adopted unanimously. Brother Rae and Brother Devlin, of the General Executive Board of the Knights of Labor, addressed the convention. Moved, that we tender a vote of thanks to the President and Secretaries for their efficient services during the conven- tion, to Brother Devlin for his attendance and words of com- mendation during the convention, and a vote of thanks to the outgoing officials. Adopted. District No. 5 Convention 191 Motion, that the next annual convention be held at Indian- apolis. Amendment — That it be held at Columbus, Ohio. Amend- ment carried. Resolved, That when an appeal to place a boycott is made to the Executive Board of the United Mine Workers by a local or district, and it is found that it can be brought to a more successful issue by getting the co-operation of the General Assembly, K. of L. and A. F. of L., that the Executive Board of the United Mine Workers of America submit the matter to the executive officers of those organizations and ask their endorsement. Adopted. Adjourned, to meet on the second Tuesday in April, 1893. John B. Rae, President, Patrick McBryde, Secretary. DISTRICT No. 5 CONVENTION Pittsburg, Pa., March 8, 1892. Convention called to order. President Costello in the chair. M. McQuade acting as secretary of the convention. National President McBride and Secretary McBryde were present during the proceedings, M. F. Moran, member of the National Executive Board, was present during the afternoon session. President Costello appointed the following committee on credentials: Chas. Wallace, Sam Devore, Milt Peters, John Brown, John Costello. The committee reported 30 delegates present, the mines on the principal railroads being represented. President Costello said, “As the National President and Secretary are present, and as the convention was called by their instructions, I considered it my duty to call upon Presi- dent McBride to say a few words to the convention.” President McBride briefly reviewed the history of the miners of the Pittsburg district during the last ten years. He said : “The convention was called to see if the miners desired to organize; if they do, I am willing to render all the aid in my power. If, on the other hand, you desire to remain as at present, we do not propose to use the funds subscribed by the 192 United Mine Workers of America miners of other fields in sending organizers into the Pittsburg district against the wishes of the men.” He requested the delegates present to give a report as to the feelings of the men in regard to organization. With the exception of the delegate from Cincinnati (river mines), the delegates expressed themselves unanimously in favor of organization, but must have organizers who could talk Italian, Slav and French languages. The following resolutions were adopted: First. That we are in favor of joining the national organization in a body. Second. That we ask the national officers for sufficient organizers to carry out the foregoing resolution. A very pleasant afternoon was spent in discussing the intricacies of the coal trade, in which the president and sec- retary took part. The convention was the most harmonious that has taken place in Pittsburg for years, the national officers were well pleased with the results, and organizers will be sent there immediately. PARTIAL REPORT OF SECOND ANNUAL CONVEN- TION DISTRICT ELEVEN. Evansville, Ind., March 8, 1892. The convention was called to order promptly by President Comesky. About thirty-five delegates and officers were present. The Mayor, on behalf of the citizens of Evansville, tendered the representatives a hearty welcome. National Executive Board member, John P. Jones, at- tended the first day’s proceedings of the convention and ren- dered valuable service while present through advice given, but was called to Columbus, Ohio, after making an eloquent speech at the early afternoon session. National Vice-President, P. H. Penna, was also present at the convention, and made himself a very welcome advisor among his co-workers of the state in which he played a verj' prominent part. The President’s report, together with that of the Secre- The Journal as an Educator 193 tary, were both read to the delegates and referred to the proper committees. After the reports had been made, and accepted, the fol- lowing officers were elected for the ensuing year: President or Master Workman, M. Comesky; Vice-President or Wor- thy Foreman, Frank Lockhart; Secretary-Treasurer, John H. Kennedy. Members of District Executive Board : James Cantwell, William D. Van Horn, Simon Scratcher, T. G. Morgan. Resolutions adopted follow : Prohibiting any unorganized man from having a voice in convention or meeting of United Mine Workers; That no salaried officer be allowed to stump the State in the interest of any political party; In favor of weekly pay law and abolishing company stores ; That all nar- row work khould be paid for the same as entries; That a miner coming from one place that is organized to another be made to produce a clear card before he be admitted and that if he gains admission under false pretenses he be fined $5; Resolved, That our State and National officers be authorized to immediately confer with the operators with a view to call- ing a joint convention of operators and miners, for the pur- pose of fixing a scale of prices for the ensuing year. Amendments were made to the district constitution, and the convention adjourned, to meet in Terre Haute, the second Tuesday in March, 1893. On April 7, 1892, the United Mine Workers Journal com- pleted the first year of its publication, and the mine workers profited much through the inspiring influence of its contents, From an educational point of view, its teachings, when followed, placed the mine worker on a higher plane, a value unsurpassed when the everlasting lessons taught are meas- ured in the scale of real worth. The brighter thoughts that have taken possession of the mind, the training of which has given him greater efficiency and increased power when questions of right are to be deter- mined in the industrial field, have contributed largely toward bringing about the advances made. The Journal has made the mine, worker an advanced thinker. Its practical lessons have taught him to contend for 194 United Mine Workers of America leadership rather than be the follower, either in thought or action, when necessity calls. Instead of remaining at the rear, his increased knowledge of affairs has imbued him with the spirit to at least share in the front ranks where he can be heard and his thirst for equality more generally recognized. With such an incentive, the mine workers of the United States should rally round the speaker for their rights, the medium through which their voices can be heard when wrongs are being perpetrated and their ever trusted friend when adversity comes. OHIO’S SCALE. AN ADDRESS CONTAINING THE SCALE AGREEMENT. Corning, Ohio, April 8, 1892. To the Miners and Laborers of District 6, United Mine Work- ers of America. Greeting: According to instructions given to us by the delegates of the last national convention, at a meeting held by the dele- gates of District No. 6, during said convention to arrange a conference with the operators of Ohio for the purpose of adjusting a scale of prices for the ensuing year, we, after careful and thorough investigation of the condition of the competitive field, and with the advice and counsel of our national officers, met in the City of Columbus, on Thursday, April 7, in joint convention with the operators of Ohio, and agreed upon the following : Resolved, By the representatives of the Ohio miners and operators, in convention assembled, that the price for mining screened coal in the Hocking Valley, from May 1, 1892, until April 30, 1893, shall be 70 cents per ton and that the recog- nized relative prices heretofore existing shall be paid in all other districts of the state for the period named for the Hock- ing Valley. This we trust will be satisfactory to all members of our district and in accordance with the resolution adopted at our last annual convention. We recommend that all honorable means be applied immediately to establish scale rates in eveiy mine in Ohio, and to enable us to accomplish the same we sug- gest that all organized miners in our district refuse to admit into their locals any unorganized miners, believing that each and every miner in our state has been given an opportunity to attach himself to our organization, therefore, when they ignore and treat with contempt every effort made by our An Ohio Joint Agreement, 1892. 195 organization to bring them within the fold, we, in justice to ourselves, deem it prudent that stringent methods be adopted and enforced whereby we can protect ourselves and bring those individuals to a full realization of the injury done them- selves, and us, by their actions. Believing that the work done in our national organization by the earnest and energetic workers now in the field and the encouraging results there- from will place our craft, by the time we assemble again in annual convention, nearer the position we should enjoy. Fraternally yours, John Fahy, R. L. Davis, Wm. Fitzgerald, Charles Call, Joshua Thomas, John Nugent, Cameron Miller, W. C. Pearce. Coalburg, W. Va., April 17, 1892. The second annual convention of District 17 was called to order on above date by President M. F. Moran and H. Stephen- son, Secretary. President Moran addressed the convention at length on the situation in general and urged the advisability of, and the necessity for, a closer unity of action in order to combat the many impositions being forced upon the West Virginia min- ers, so well demonstrated by the strikes they had entered into during the year. The District constitution was changed to conform to the National and officers were elected as follows : M. F. Moran, president; J. J. Wren, vice-president; Henry Stephenson, secretary. Executive Board; Thomas Farry, Jacob Young, J. E. Hall, A. J. Moore. Convention adjourned. CHAPTER IX. DISTRICT ELEVEN— SPECIAL CONVENTION. Terre Haute, Indiana. The special convention of District 11 was called to order on Tuesday, April 19, 1892, by President Comesky, who ap- pointed the following committee on credentials : Frank Periat, Jos. Dunkerly, D. Johns, Fritz Adams and Thos. Cooper. Committee reported and recommended that the following delegates be seated: W. A. Davidson, William Scorer, B. Stinson, William Van Horn, William Walton, David Johns, F. Freeman, T. G. Morgan, Simon Scratcher, George Scratcher, Thomas Cooper, Frank Periat, E. Brandriff, John Davidson, J. A. Morris, L. F. Cushman, George Rohrig, Jos. Dunkerly, F. Lockhart, Fritz Adams, John Mooney, and M. D. Gray. Report received and delegates seated. The National Executive Board and District Executive Board were present. The propositions made by the coal operators were then read to the convention. It was then moved and seconded that we hear the report of the delegates. It was made clear to the convention by the report of the delegates that the miners of Indiana were opposed to any reduction in the price of mining, except at Rosedale, where the miners had been led to believe that a reduction was inevitable. It came out that negotiations were in progress and an agreement partially made to mine coal at that place for 671/2 cents for the first six months of the year and 70 cents for the last six months. When this was learned it was moved that a committee of four be sent to Rosedale to try to have them rescind their action. The fol- lowing committee was then appointed: Brothers Dunkerly, Lockhart, Johns and Van Horn. They were accompanied by Brothers W. S. Scott, James White, W. C. Webb and M. F. Moran, of the National Board. A meeting of the Rosedale miners was called and the fol- lowing resolution adopted : ( 196 ) Special Convention District 11 197 Resolved, That we, the miners of Rosedale, Indiana, do hereby rescind the action we took last night with regard to signing the .agreement settling the price to be paid the Rose- dale miners, and that we instruct our delegate to notify the scale committee in session now in Terre Haute, Indiana, that we will abide by the action of the convention. Yeas, 34; nays, 22. John L. Ogden, Chairman. W. S. Scott, Secretary. After some discussion on the operators’ propositions, it was moved and seconded that we take them up and act on them seriatim. Carried. First. To mine coal for 65 cents per ton, rejected, and in lieu thereof the following was proposed: That we mine bituminous coal for 451/2 cents per ton gross weight. Amend- ed,that we mine coal at last year’s terms, namely, 70 cents per ton, or its equivalent. Amendment carried, 14 to 6. Second. In regard to semi-monthly pay, moved, that we reject the proposition. Amended, that second proposition be left in the hands of the scale convention. Amendment carried. Third. As to reductions in day wages in old Second Dis- trict. After considerable discussion on this question, it was moved, that it be tabled until after the scale committee meet the operators. Carried. Fourth. In regard to check-off, was left in the hands of scale committee by consent. Moved, that the President ap- point a scale committee of six members. So ordered. The following committee was then appointed : W. N. Wal- ton, W. A. Davidson, John Mooney, Fritz Adams, Simon Scratcher, and Frank Periot. The convention then adjourned. WEDNESDAY MORNING SESSION. Convention called to order by President Comesky. The scale committee was called on to report. President John Mc- Bride reported that the scale committee and the operators failed to agree, but afterwards the operators told him if some other conditions could be made they might make a scale at 70 cents, hut as this was a very important matter and some of our delegates absent at Rosedale, a recess was taken. The conven- tion was again called to order at 10 :30 a. m. The delegates having returned from Rosedale, they reported what already 198 United Mine Workers of America appears in this report. The report was accepted and commit- tee discharged. It was then reported to the convention that the operators would pay 70 cents per ton if the miners would accept pay semi-monthly and agree to equalize the day wages by reducing wages in the old Second District, and that day wages be made uniform at 21 cents per hour. Moved, that we submit the following proposition to the operators : That we will accept $1.95 per day, and that it be the uni- form price throughout the state. That if the scale can be made at 70 cents per ton and $1.95 per day, that we accept our pay semi-monthly. That the question of check-olf be left in the hands of committee. So ordered. Brother Fritz Adams then resigned from the scale commit- tee, and W. D. VanHorn was appointed in his place. Conven- tion then adjourned. The convention was again called to order at 3 :20 p. m., by Vice-President Lockhart. The scale committee reported that the operators refused to recede from their former position. Moved, that we accept the operators’ proposition, namely, 70 cents per ton or its equivalent, $1.90 per day, for day men, our pay semi-monthly, and that the miners be allowed to check off all dues and levies of the organization. The scale committee reported that as some of the operators had gone home, nothing could be done until Thursday, April 21st, when they would be recalled. Adjourned. THURSDAY. Convention called to order at 10 o’clock, by President Com- esky. The operators not yet all being present, it was moved we adjourn sine die. Motion carried. At 11 o’clock the agree- ment was written out and signed, and at 1 :30 p. m. the same was read to what delegates remained in the city, and the dele- gates and members of both boards left for their respective homes. Respectfully submitted, J. H. Kennedy, Secretary-Treasurer, District 11. Following is the agreement for the year: Special Convention District 12 199 This agreement, entered into by and between the bitu- minous operators of the State of Indiana, party of the first part, and the United Mine Workers of America, party of the second part, Witnesseth — That the following scale of prices shall gov- ern the operation of the mines of said first party for one year from May 1, 1892. The price for day work in the mine for practical men shall be 21-1/9 cents per hour. The price for pick mining shall be 70 cents per ton. The price for mining with Harrison or Sargent machines, including cutting, drilling, shooting and loading, together with the usual care of room, shall be as heretofore, 52^ cents per ton, and narrow work to be paid for as at present. The price for mining with the Legg machine shall be 13 cents per ton for rooms and 15 cents per ton for entries. The price for shooting and loading after Legg machines, including the usual care of rooms, shall be 311/^ cents per ton in rooms and 37 . cents per ton in entries. Price for mining and all settlements therefor shall be based on the weight of screened coal or its equivalent. Payments for coal mined and labor performed shall be made semi-monthly, not later than the 10th and 25th of each month, for the earnings of the preceding half month, respect- ively. It is further agreed, that the party of the first part shall offer no objection to the “check-off” for checkweighman and for dues for the party of the second part. Provided, that no check-off shall be made against any person until he shall have first given his consent in writing to his employer. In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names and affixed our seals this 21st day of April, A. D. 1892. Indiana Bituminous Coal Association. By J, Smith Talley, Ind. Attest: Wm. E. Eppert, Secretary. M. Comesky, President. J. H. Kennedy, Secretary, District 11. Approved by John McBride, President, and Patrick McBryde, Secretary, United Mine Workers of America. SPECIAL CONVENTION. Springfield, Illinois, April 19, 1892. Special State Convention of District No. 12, United Mine Workers of America, met in the State House, Springfield, Illi- 200 United Mine Workers of America nois, April 19, at 10 :30 o’clock a. m., President M. J. Goings in the chair. The following committee appointed on credentials; M. P. Morris, John E. Frost and J. R. Edwards, on making their report, found the following entitled to seats in the convention : Francis McDermott, St. Davids; Stephen Bowen, Dumferm- line; Thomas Rooken, Edwards; Josiah Rodgers, William Monahan, Braidwood; J. A. Crawford, Bryant, Braceville, Farmington and Wesley City; J. R. Edwards, Duquoin, L. U. 325, L. U. 166 and L. A. 1481 ; M. P. Morris, Kingstone mine, Reed City; Joseph Love, Middle Grove; F. W. Knollman, Centralia; John E. Frost, Cable; M. J. Goings, Eben Howells. The report of Secretary-Treasurer Howells was read and referred to the auditing committee, who reported as follows: Receipts from December 31, 1891, to April 16, 1892. From Local Unions and Local Assemblies $187.05 Donations — P. McBryde, $5 ; P . H. Donnelly, $5 ; Eben Howells, $5; William Seaife, $2; Richard Evans, $2. Total 19.00 Miscellaneous receipts 70.00 Special Levy 152.17 December 31, 1891, cash on hand 9.29 Total receipts $437.51 Total disbursements 432.11 Balance on hand $5.40 Springfield, Illinois, April 20, 1892. We, your auditing committee, have carefully examined the books and receipts of Secretary Howells, and found the same correct and kept in a first-class manner. Respectfully yours, Stephen Bowen, Josiah Rodgers, Auditing Committee. Committees were appointed as follows : Resolutions — M. P. Morris, Thomas Rooken and William Monahan. Constitution — J. A. Crawford, J. E. Frost and J. Love. Finance — J. R. Edwards, Francis McDermott, J. A. Craw- ford, F. W. Knollman. Hon. E. A. Snively, Clerk of the Supreme Court, on invi- tation, read the full text of the decision of the court on the Special Convention District 12 201 truck law case, and during the remarks he made it was plainly evident that his sympathy was with the mining class. After a rising vote of thanks tendered Mr. Snively, the convention adjourned. The convention reconvened April 20. A letter received from P. H. Donnelly, containing many good suggestions, was read and ordered placed on file. The following was adopted: That the state tax of ten cents per month remain ; that no general levy be ordered for any general state purpose until there is a marked increase in the ranks of the organization; that the salary of the state president be $700 per year secre- tary-treasurer, $700 for the ensuing year; that the state executive board be empowered to order a levy to meet the demands of our organization, when in their judgment the conditions will waTi’ant it. The election of officers resulted as follows: President or Master Workman — J. A. Crawford, Bryant. Vice-President or Worthy Foreman — James Boston, Du- quoin. Secretary-Treasurer — W. J. Guyman, Duquoin. Executive Board : First district, William Monahan, Braid- wood; second district, Thomas Rooker, Edwards Station; third district, M. P. Morris, Kingston mines; fourth district, J. R. Edwards, Duquoin ; fifth district, Richard Evans, Smithboro. The following resolutions were adopted : Resolved, That we demand of the state’s attorney of St. Clair county to further prosecute the case pending in the circuit court of that county on the truck law, in which John C. Harder is plaintiff, and John Kloess defendant. Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to inter- view Attorney-General Hunt and request him to ask the dif- ferent county attorneys to use their best endeavors in defend- ing the mining laws of this state, and to wait upon the com- mittees on resolutions of the Democratic and Republican state conventions, and ask each of said committees to incorporate in their platform the following : That we are in favor of a constitutional amendment that will insure the passage of statutes abolishing the truck store system and enforce the weekly payment of wages to all labor- ers in lawful money. 202 United Mine Workers of America It was resolved, “That each delegate on returning home call meetings of miners and business men with the object of enforcing if possible the enactment of the weekly pay law.” President Crawford, P. H. Donnelly and Hon. William Mooney of Braidwood, were appointed a committee to attend the Republican and Democratic state conventions in the interest of an anti-truck store amendment to the constitution ; That all local unions subscribe for a copy of the United Mine Workers Joui'nal, after which the newly elected president, J. A. Crawford, was conducted to the chair and introduced by the retiring president, M. J. Goings, in a neat speech of commendation and good will. Numerous constitutional amendments were recommended by the committee on constitution in harmony with that of the national union, which were concurred in by the convention; an order for the publication of the proceedings in the United Mine Workers Journal, one copy of which was to be sent to each local union; and a rising vote tendered to the retiring officers, M. J. Goings and Eben Howells. The convention then adjourned to meet in Springfield, Illinois, the fourth Tuesday in April, 1893, unless sooner convened by order of president. J. A. Crawford, President. W. J. Guyman, Secretary-Treasurer. District 8 Meeting and Tennessee Scale 203 INDIANA BLOCK COAL AFFAIRS On Saturday, April 23, 1892, delegates of the block coal district met at Klingers’ hall in the city of Brazil at 10 a. m. There were 23 mines represented. William Galt of Cardonia was chosen chairman and T. J. Russell, secretary. An expres- sion of the delegates showed that the block coal miners were almost unanimously in favor of trying to obtain an advance of 5 cents per ton. Brother Comesky and the writer were present and Brother Comesky advised them to do all they could to secure an advance of 5 cents per ton to place them on a fair basis with the bituminous miners of the state, after which a committee of six was appointed to meet and nego- tiate with the operators. The committee met the operators at 1 p. m. At 3 o’clock the delegates were all called into the Brazil Block Coal office and an agreement signed on about the same conditions' as last year, namely, 75 cents per ton, but nothing better could be expected when we take into consider- ation the helpless condition of the block coal miners. While there are more than 2,000 miners in the block coal district there are not more than 100 organized men in the whole district at this time. J. H. Kennedy. TENNESSEE DISTRICT SCALE. April 26-27, 1892. At a meeting of operators and miners, held at Jellico, Tennessee, a scale of prices for the coal companies named was adopted for a period of one year commencing May 1, 1892: Central Jellico Coal Company, Main Jellico Mountain Coal Company, Proctor Coal Company, Falls Branch Jellico Coal Company, Wooldridge, Jellico Coal Company, Standard Coal and Coke Company. Article I. That we adopt the present price as now paid in the Jellico district for mining and day labor during the ensuing year; Ten hours to constitute a day’s labor, and lab- orers to be paid by the hour, commencing May 1, 1892, and ending April 30, 1893. Art. II. That only coal be measured and not impuri- ties. The. mining seam and sand band is not referred to. 204 United Mine Workers of America Art. III. That we adopt the Board of Arbitration and Conciliation clause as of last year’s contract with the under- standing that this agreement is to be the basis of all settle- ments and arbitration. The committee on the part of the operators to consist of E. P. Avent, W. T. Lewis and John C. Brooks. Art. IV. That we adopt the present prices for entries as now paid in the Jellico district, with the exception that wher- ever the slate does not exceed ten (10) inches in thickness, and no slate to be blasted from the top ; the price for driving entrj" shall be $1.50 per yard, and where the slate exceeds ten (10) inches in thickness and up to eighteen (18) inches, the price for mining coal in such entries shall be 5 cents per ton extra, and if the slate be blasted from the top, the prevailing prices for entry driving shall be paid. Art. V. That we adopt the present prices as now paid by the Jellico district for airways and breakthroughs for the ensuing year, with the proviso that Laurel pay the same price, the same conditions to be considered. That we adopt the present price as now paid by the Jellico districc for room turning during the ensuing year. Art. VI. That we adopt the Wooldridge mine system of delivering coal to employes, with the understanding that the said system be defined as follows: The coal to be delivered to the houses of employes in a two-horse wagon at $1.50 per load, the men to order it as they want it. The load of coal is supposed to be a ton, and the employes and their families must not take any coal that has gone through the weigh box. Any- one picking up coal from the incline shall not be charged for same. If the employes hire a team to haul their coal the price shall be $1.25 per ton. Art. VII. That we adopt the Proctor Coal Company plan of collecting medical fund at East Tennessee, Main Jellico Mountain Coal Company, and Central Jellico Coal Company mines, with the provision that the companies will not guarantee the doctor’s fees, and said doctor must pay for rent of office and for coal. W. C. Webb, Chairman. Richard Kinsey, F. L. Bosworth, Secretaries. Approved April 27, 1892, P. H. Penna. CHAPTER X. DISTRICT NO. 5. Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, April 27, 1892. The second annual convention of district 5, United Mine Workers of America, met in Knights of Labor Hall, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Wednesday, April 27, 1892, at 10 o’clock a. m.. President Costello in the chair. Credential committee: Patrick Acton, Shire Oaks; Samuel Devore, Venetia; and Daniel McGarry, Mansfield, reported delegates entitled to seats as follows : Frank McKenna, L. A. 6208 and I. P. Everett, Finleyville ; Nicholas Schumacher, L. A. 3259, Kellings; Daniel McGarry, Richard Gibbs, L. A. 2288, Mansfield; Samuel Devore, L. A. 4512, Venetia; George Fletcher, Peter Wagner, and William Hopkins, M. C. & C. Company’s mine No. 2; Lawrence Magdalene and Louis Lecreirx, Beadlings; Patrick Acton, L. A. 151, Shire Oaks; Thomas Oats, Blythes; William Robers, L. A. 2705, Coal Bluff; Charles E. Wallace, L. A. 925; M. McQuade, Mansfield; Charles H. Ashby, L. A. 2829, Canons- burg; Wilson Peters, Idlewood; Patrick Hallam, Anton Khime, Bower Hill; William Gettings, Andersons; Thomas Paxton, L. U. Ill, Shaners; John Marris, Eclipse; Andrew Miller, Noblestown; Patrick Dolan, Laurel Hill. The executive board reported the constitution as revised according to instruction from the convention held March 2. After some discussion it was taken up and acted on seriatim. The election of officers resulted as follows : President or Master Workman, John Costello. Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, George Wilson. Secretary-Treasurer, M. McQuade. Executive Board: Samuel Devore, Nicholas Schumacher, Thomas Oats. After discussing some questions of minor importance the convention- adjourned. ( 205 ) 206 United Mine Workers of America Thursday morning, April 28, 1892. The convention was called to order, and the following additional delegates presented credentials and were given seats: Daniel Widyde, Shaners; Robert Cairns, Powers; Robert McAlpin, Big Chief ; George Barth, Federal ; Peter Collins, Cherrys; Richard Pemberthy, Montour; George Nelson, Moon Run; Charles Morgan, Bunola; James Bicker- staff, Osceola ; George Gamble, Candy mine. On a report of delegates giving their instructions it was made manifest that the feeling was in favor of the last year’s prices, and the following resolution was presented: Resolved, That we ask last year’s scale (79 cents per ton) for the coming year, a uniform enforcement of the dead- work scale, half holiday on Saturdays and two weeks pay. After some discussion, in which National President John McBride took part, giving valuable advice, it was resolved that a committee be appointed to meet the operators com- mittee to make an agreement as per resolution, except to give the committee discretionary power on the question of two week’s pay, and half holidays on Saturdays. The committee selected follows: National President John McBride, District President John Costello, William Hopkins, Peter Collins, and Charles Morgan. Resolved, That all miners receiving 79 cents per ton and dead work scale shall continue at work on May 1, but that no scale of prices be made unless it be made by the scale com- mittee, selected by this convention. Resolved, That a five cent levy be collected at each mine to defray expenses of the convention. Resolved, That the district dues be collected through the checkweighman at each mine. The convention then adjourned. The scale committee met the operators’ committee on Saturday, April 30, and the following agreement was entered into: The price of mining fi/o-inch screened coal from May 1, 1892, shall be 79 cents per ton of 2,000 pounds, and %-inch screened coal, 65 cents per ton of 2,000 pounds. Run of mine shall be paid for on a basis of the average weight for wagons River District Convention 207 screened over a li/^-inch screen. Clay veins 6 inches and less than 12 inches, shall be paid at the rate of $2 for cutting, anything over 12 inches, $2 per foot. Where clay veins run at an angle across the room or entry, 50 cents a yard shall be paid, while it continues. Anything 6 inches or less shall be considered a spar, for which $1 shall be paid and 25 cents additional shall be added, where the spar runs in an angle. Two dollars and fifty-cents shall be paid for room turning, the neck not to exceed 7 yards, and entry price be paid for all over 7 yards. Entry work to be paid $1 per yard for two men ; $1.25 for two additional men, and $1.50 per yard when entry is worked with three shifts. For 12 feet places the former price shall be paid, “break-throughs” to be paid 50 cents per yard. The question of ripping roof, digging drain and thick slate to be left to miners and mine bosses. Pick sharpening to be 11/4 per cent. Drivers’ wages are to be as follows : Minimum price $2; maximum $2.25, excepting in such cases where, owing to exceptional difficulties, a higher price is now paid. Signed on behalf of the miners, John McBride, John Costello, William Hopkins, Peter Collins, Charles Morgan. Signed on behalf of the operators, Francis L. Robbins, Chairman. George K. Miles, Secretary. RIVER DISTRICT CONVENTION. Monongahela City, Pennsylvania, April 29, 1892. The convention was called to order by Patrick Acton; John A. Morgan of Elizabeth was elected chairman, and Jeremiah Kennedy of Monongahela City, secretary. After the committee on credentials had reported, Thomas W. Davis, agent for Journal and organizer, explained that the object in calling the convention was to form a river miners’ district. Samuel Pardoe, Joseph Schaming, Enoch Coulson, John 208 United Mine Workers op America Jack and Patrick Acton, were appointed a committee on resolutions, and reported as follows : First — Resolved, that this convention is unanimously in favor of organization; we believe the United Mine Workers of America covers all the points necessary that we desire in organization and, further, that we believe the limits of this district should be so extended as to cover the Ohio and Kana- wha rivers, which are our direct competitors in the river markets. Second — Resolved, that we are in favor of laying the dead- work scale on the table until the next convention, all of which was adopted and the convention adjourned for dinner. AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order by chairman, J. A. Morgan. Dr. Woods was granted a few minutes time and spoke on the establishment of a miners’ hospital at Monongahela City. President John McBride in a few well chosen remarks, addressed the convention, and the committee on resolutions resumed their report : Third — Resolved, that we elect a temporary secretary- treasurer, and we ask the national office to attend to any griev- ances that may arise until after the convention of the ]\Ionon- gehela, Youghiogheny, Ohio and Kanawha river miners. Fourth — Resolved, that we favor a semi-monthly tax of 3 cents per capita to this river district to be sent to the secre- tary-treasurer pro tern., and the secretary-treasurer hold him- self responsible to the next convention. Fifth — Resolved, that we ask the national officers to call a convention of the above named river miners as soon as possible and practicable. At this point the nominations of J. Kennedy and P. Acton were made for secretary-treasurer, resulting in the unanimous election of Jeremiah Kennedy. Sixth — Resolved, That we, the representatives of the l\Io- nongahela and Youghiogheny miners, in convention assembled, declare ourselves in favor of establishing a hospital at IMonon- gahela City, and ask our miners at home, at the pits and local assembly meetings to take decided action on having it estab- lished as soon as possible. The resolutions were adopted and the • convention adjourned. John A. Morgan, president, Jeremiah Kennedy, secretary. Address of President Scott 209 IOWA, DISTRICT 13. April 28, 1892. President W. S. Scott’s address : Fellow Workmen — A little more than one year ago, a dozen thoughtful men, who were chosen to represent the organized and unorganized miners of the State of Iowa, met in this city to devise ways and means for the complete organization of the miners of Iowa into what was to be known as District 13 of the United Mine Workers of America. Having reviewed the provoking state of affairs precipi- tated upon the miners of Iowa last May, Mr. Scott continued as follows : Fellow workmen, have you ever thought of the vast wealth of this country; of $62,000,000,000 of wealth piled up as a monument of the noble fathers and mothers who have builded homes upon the hillsides and prairies of our beautiful land? Who owns and controls this vast wealth? Is it the men and women who made the homes by their honest toil, or is it owned and controlled by men who never did an honest hour’s labor in their lives? We answer, the corporations and mil- lionaire idlers have absorbed the labor products of all the noble men and women who have come and gone, from the time the Mayflower first touched the land at Plymouth Rock down to the present time. All the earnings of labor, except enough for a bare subsistence for the laborers, have been absorbed by the wealthy few of our land for their own behoof and benefit. The question arises, by what right do the wealthy few deprive the laboring millions of their hard-earned wealth? We answer, by the right granted them by and through corrupt legislation and venal courts ; by the right that one kind of a thief gives to another kind of thief the right to take for his own all that the first thief does not reserve for himself. The Rev. Joseph Cook said in 1890 that “two thousand capitalists own more than all the rest of the 65,000,000 of our population; 250,000 rich men control 70 per cent of the national wealth. The American republic is therefore prac- tically owned by less than 250,000 persons. If the present causes which produce a concentration of wealth continue, the republic will soon be owned by 50,000 persons.” And those 50,000 persons will be the ones who have done the least work of any people in our land. My fellow workmen, how much longer can labor be robbed of its honest reward and the robber go unpunished? How long will we continue to be the slaves of the corporate power of the land ? 210 United Mine Workers of America Let me ask you, from whence came these great concerns called corporations? From whence do they derive their power? I will answer: they are brought into existence by some law enacted by the state legislature. Certain powers and privileges are granted by the law, and a number of per- sons combine together to form a corporation in order to reap the benefit of the law ; in such cases made and provided, they are the creatures of statute law, and whenever the corpora- tion becomes oppressive in its dealings with its employes, or the public in general, it then becomes the duty of the legisla- ture to enact such measures as will control the actions of the corporations and prevent them from becoming engines of oppression. And if the legislature fail to do this, then it may be truthfully said that the legislature is controlled by the cor- porations, for it refuses to protect the masses against the classes, and when a state legislature refuses to protect the masses, then is the time that the seeds are sown out of which grows socialism and anarchy. When the men who are chosen to represent the people turn their backs to the people, and their ears to the corporations, they and they alone are respon- sible if a state of anarchy prevails, for they themselves first gave the example. My fellow workmen, who are responsible for this condi- tion today? Who has helped to rob you of the proceeds of your toil? Watch the record of the men who had the making of the laws of the state within their power. If they have legislated for the owner of wealth, they have voted against the owner of muscle, and if they have, watch them for all time to come, and when they seek to again gain a place where they can vote you into worse slavery than you are now, work un- ceasingly to defeat them. We are often compelled to listen to the boast that this is the freest land under the sun ; that every workingman is the equal of anyone else ; that we are all sovereigns in this coun- try; that one man’s liberty is just as great as the liberty of any other man. Such nonsense is nauseating in the extreme. Do you call this a free land when the employe must sign a contract that sets at naught the law made to govern in his own particular branch of industry? Sign a contract made by his employer, made without the employe being consulted as to the terms and conditions of the contract signed, and then not be permitted to even keep a copy of the contract? Is this free- dom? If it is, then I do not know the meaning of the word. Is it freedom when one must trade at the “pluck-me” store or take the road in search of work? Are we all equal in our rights and privileges? Out upon such freedom, out upon Address op President Scott 211 such equality, that allows the employer to become virtually the owner of the person of the employe. The wealthy few have been sowing the wind; they must not complain if, in the near future, they shall be called upon to reap the whirlwind. The outraged millions who toil and create the wealth of this country, but who are prevented from enjoying the fruits of their labor, will not much longer submit to the great schemes of robbery that are perpetrated against them, but in some hour of their desperation, the voice of a leader will be heard, and then the avalanche of pent-up feeling will burst all barriers of restraint, and the wrongs of an age will be wiped out in almost a twinkle of an eye. And who can say that these toiling millions will be in the wrong? They have begged for relief at the hands of their state legislatures, and their petitions have been thrust aside with but ill concealed malice towards the men who presumed to intercede for the rights of the toilers. If justice can not be had, if wrongs must be multiplied, while, with an arrogance born of love for despotic power, the corporations continue to taunt the very men who pile up their wealth for them, I ask again, who can say that these laboring millions, who have borne so much, and without the least hope of relief otherwise, take the matter in their own hands and, by force, wipe out the great wrongs that are so heavy upon their shoulders? Now, my fellow workmen, let me urge you to again gird yourselves with the strong arm of organization, to the end that you may be in a better position to defend your present aims and hopes. You must remember that nothing can be accomplished except through organization. Nothing of any moment was ever accomplished except that the friends of the movement went into a perfect system of organization for the accomplish- ment of the object sought to be obtained. Fellow workmen, you have been brave in the past; you have been enduring in your battle with the wrong; keep the faith, remember that every corporation is the enemy to a greater or less degree of organized labor; remember that the men who compose the corporations are in as compact an organization as it is possible for men to form; we must pro- tect ourselves likewise. It only remains for me to now thank you one and all for the kind and courteous manner in which you have treated me as the President and Master Workman of the district during the past year, and should I never be permitted to meet with you again, my best wishes shall always be for the success of 212 United Mine Workers of America the brave men to be found in the Iowa coal mines. And may the crowning success of life be yours. Walter S. Scott, President and Master Workman District No. 13, United Mine Workers of America. From the meager report of the proceedings at hand, the convention was full of enthusiasm, bent upon moving onward, and elected the following officers for the ensuing year : Presi- dent and Master Workman, W. S. Scott; Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, Perry Cavender; Secretary-Treasurer, Julius Fromm. Executive Board, Robert Cowan, Angus; Os- car Anderson, Oswalt; T. E. Jackson, Oskaloosa. DISTRICT NO. 12, ILLINOIS. Early in May, 1892, the officers of District 12, United Mine Workers of America, issued a manifesto on the enforcement of mining laws for the state, and called the attention of mine workers to constitutional amendments adopted at the miners’ special convention, April 19-20, 1892. The constitutional amendments follow: Sec. 3, Article 1, amended to read: Sec. 3. This district shall have jurisdiction over all its affiliated bodies, which shall be governed in all trade matters by this constitution. Sec. 2, Article III, amended to read: The district con- vention shall be held annually, commencing hereafter at 10 :30 a. m., on the fourth Tuesday in April. Amended by adding Article IV, Sections 1, 2, 3, 4: Article IV — Strikes. Sec. 1. When trouble of a local character arises between members of any Local Assembly or Local Union, and their em- ployers, the officers of said locals shall endeavor to effect an amicable adjustment, and, failing in this, they shall imme- diately notify the officers of the district, and said district officers shall immediately investigate the cause of complaint, and failing to effect a peaceful settlement upon a basis that would be equitable and just to aggrieved members, finding that a strike would best subserve the interests of the locality affected, they may order the inauguration of a strike, but no local strike shall be legalized or supported by this district un- less its inauguration was approved of by the officers of the district, or by the National Executive Board, upon an appeal Hocking Valley Day Wage Scale 213 taken by the aggrieved members from the decision of the dis- trict officers. Any Local Union or Local Assembly striking in violation of the above provisions, will not be sustained or recognized by the state office or officers. Sec. 2. Before final action is taken in this district upon questions that directly or indirectly affect the interests of the mine workers of another district, or that requires a strike to determine, the President or Master Workman and the Secre- tary will jointly prepare, sign and forward to the National President or Master Workman, a written statement, setting forth the gUevance complained of, the action contemplated by the district, together with the reasons therefor, and the Na- tional President or Master Workman will, within five days after the receipt of such statement, either approve or disap- prove of the action contemplated, and such approval or dis- approval, together with reasons therefor, will be made in writing, and a copy forwarded to the Secretary of the aggrieved district. Sec. 3. Should the action contemplated by the aggrieved district receive the approval of the National President or Mas- ter Workman, the district shall be free to act; but should the President or Master Workman disapprove of the action con- templated, the district may appeal to the National Executive Board, which shall be convened to consider such appeal within five days after its receipt by the National Secretary. Until the National President or Master Workman has approved or the National Executive Board has sustained an appeal, this dis- trict is not free to enter upon a strike, unless it shall have been ordered by the National Convention. Sec. 4. Any Local Union or Local Assembly under the jurisdiction of this district, who refuses to pay any levy authorized by the National Executive Board, to maintain a legalized strike, shall be considered as not paying the legal taxation. J. A. Crawford, President and Master Workman, W. J. Guyman, Secretary-Treasurer, District No. 12. DAY MEN’S SCALE, HOCKING VALLEY, OHIO. From circulars sent to all mine secretaries in Athens, Hocking and Perry counties, a convention was held at Shaw- nee, Ohio, on Saturday, May 7, 1892, to regulate the wages and hours of day hands. The following delegates were present: Edward Davis, Shawnee; W. G. Davis, L. U. 424; Daniel Weaver, L. U. 374; 214 United Mine Workers of America Charles Hoy, L. U. 290; James W. Smith, Longstreth; James Sherlock, Mine 19; William Wells, Mine 8; A. L. Enix, No. 2, Glouster; Hiram Been, Oakdale; W. J. Williams, Mine 25; Samuel Campbell, Jobs; John Fahy, Jacksonville; John Per- chott. New Pittsburg; Fred Schmidt, Nelsonville; Thomas Reed, L. U. 381; Adam Hallam, L. U. 421; John Butterworth, L. U. 254; John Welsh, Mine 10; M. Gallagher, Mine 24; F. Boyle, Mine 21; John Thomas, Mud Fork; F. S. Smith, Phoe- nix No. 1; T. D. Jones, John W. Vaughan, Shawnee; John Nugent, New Straitsville ; W. C. Pearce, Corning. President Nugent stated that the call for the convention was issued for the purpose of trying to adjust present differ- ences in wages and hours of labor so that they would be uni- form throughout the district. After each delegate had ex- pressed himself on the situation, the following committee of three was appointed to draft a code of rules: G. W. Davis, James W. Smith and John Fahy. The committee reported the following scale of wages for day labor in Athens, Perry and Hocking counties : Per Day. Tracklayers $2.50 Tracklayers’ helpers 2.25 Drivers 2.05 All inside day labor 2.05 All Dumpers 2.00 All Trimmers 2.00 All outside labor not less than : 1.75 Firemen 2.00 Trappers not less than 1.00 Greasers 1.25 Rope Eiders not less than 2.25 Pumpers not less than $40 per month when working by month, but when working by the day, not less than 2.00 Resolved, That no scale be made for carpenters, engineers, or blacksmiths. Resolved, That nine hours shall constitute a day’s work, and four and a half hours a half day, and that there be no quarter time. If the mine starts to work in the morning, or after dinner and quits before noon or evening, a half day’s wages must be paid. No day man shall commence work before 7 a. m., or work longer than 11 :30 for a half day. When the mine works all day, the dinner hour shall be from 11 :30 to 12 :30. Houtzdale Checkweighman Laws 215 The drivers shall leave the stable at 7 a. m. and be back at 5 p. m. when the mine works all day, and at 11 :30 when working half day. But when the stables are in the mine, the driver shall start in the mine at 7 a. m. and be out at 5 p. m. for a full day, or 11 :30 a. m. for a half day. Owing to the absence of operators at the meeting, it was thought advisable not to put the scale of prices agreed to in force until June 15, 1892. John Nugent, President, W. C. Pearce, Secretary. WEST VIRGINIA. A delegate meeting of West Virginia miners was held at Moundsville, May 7, 1892, with about 12 delegates in attend- ance. President Moran called the meeting to order, and Basil Scott acted as Secretary. It was resolved to call the attention of the prosecuting attorney of each county in the state to any violation of the script or screen laws; against all contract work in mining or hauling coal in the mines; the placing of checkweighmen on the tipples at the mines ; a demand for two weeks’ pay, and favoring the same scale of prices as was being paid in District No. 6, Ohio, except screening coal, the prices to be, for run of mine coal, 50 cents per ton, to take effect June 13, 1892. M. F. Moran, President, Basil Scott, Secretary. HOUTZDALE, PA., CHECKWEIGHMAN FUND LAWS. ADOPTED MAY 19, 1892. Article I. Section 1. Name and composition: Houtzdale Check- weighman Fund. To be composed of all miners and laborers subscribing to checkweigh fund. Section 2. Objects : To unite mine employes and amelio- rate their condition by conciliation, arbitration or strikes. Section 3. Jurisdiction: Over all members paying into checkweigh fund. 216 United Mine Workers of America Article II. Section 1. Officers of this Union shall be the officers of the checkweigh fund. Section 2. Duty of officers : President shall preside at all meetings of the Union, sign all official documents when cor- rect, perform all legally prescribed duties and such as may hereafter be set by this Union. Section 3. The Vice-President shall succeed the Presi- dent in case of death or removal from office. Section 4. Secretary shall have charge of and preserve all records, books and documents and effects of the office, record proceedings of all meetings, and meetings of the Executive Board, and perform all duties prescribed by this Union. Section 5. The Treasurer shall receive all moneys and pay out the same when ordered by President, Secretary, Execu- tive Board and meetings of this Local Union. Article III. Section 1. The revenue of this Union shall be derived from miners and mine laborers and boys working within the jurisdiction of this checkweighman fund and shall be col- lected as checkweigh dues and paid over to the treasurer of the fund. Section 2. Officers of this Union shall cause to be paid monthly, to National Union, 10 cents per man and for boys at half turn 5 cents, and to the District Treasurer 5 cents per man and 21/2 cents for boys at half turn, monthly. Section 3. Secretaries of all L. U.’s and L. A.’s shall fur- nish the Secretary of this Union an account of members in good standing monthly, and shall, when they send the tax to National and District, request that credit be given for the number of members reported by them, and the National and District Secretaries shall send duplicate receipts to said L. A.’s and L. U.’s. Article IV. Section 1. Meetings shall be held on the first Saturday of each month, at 3 p. m., at Houtzdale. Special meetings at the call of the President, when so instructed by the Executive Board, or at the request of five L. U.’s or L. A.’s, or mines in the jurisdiction of this Union. Hocking Valley Joint Conference 217 Section 2. Each mine shall be a branch of this Union, and must hold meetings from time to time and enforce rules that are made by this Union. Section 3. The regular checkweighman conventions shall be held as usual, with representation as now exists or as may be from time to time agreed to by this Union, Section 4. A member to be eligible for office or check- weighman, must have been a member six months. Article V. Section 1. Not later than the 20th of each month, each checkweighman shall make a list of all persons paying into the fund at his mine, and give the same to the Secretary of this Union. The Secretary to make a record of the same. Section 2. Traveling cards must be furnished by the Sec- retary to those applying for them, if they are in good stand- ing. Section 3, Members removing from any mine in this jurisdiction, shall receive in the way of a working card, lines to certify as to their good standing, and must present the same to checkweighman at the place removed to. Section 4. Arrearages of one month in checkweigh fund works delinquency or bad standing. JOINT MEETING. On May 24, 1892, a joint meeting of miners and operators was held at Columbus, Ohio, to consider what prices should be paid for single and double shift entries, and other work at machine mines in the Hocking Valley coal field. At this meeting the miners were represented by — John McBride, John Nugent, W. C. Pearce, Charles Call, John Fahy, Fred Dilcher, W. E. Farms, Cameron Miller and James Pritchard. Operators — G. W. Brashears, M. V, Ferguson, H. D. Tur- ney, Thomas Johnson and W. S. Courtwright, of a standing committee; E. Johnson, J. F. Harris, E. A. Cole, E. J. Kessin- ger, J. E. Martin, with Superintendents Miller and Corcoran also present. John McBride was made chairman, W. C. Pearce and F. S. Brooks secretaries. 218 United Mine Workers of America The question of double shift and .“double-double shift” in machine mines, it was said: Where four men work in an entry, two in the day and two at night, it would constitute a “double-double” shift, and for this $1 per yard should be paid. This was the demand of the miners. After discussing the question connected with it at afternoon and evening sessions, it was resolved to adjourn to meet again June 13, 1892, at Columbus, Ohio. As per agreement, the joint committee met at Columbus, Ohio, June 13, with representatives, as follows : Miners — John McBride, John Nugent, W. C. Pearce, James Christian, Charles Call, John Murphy, J. W. Heiskell, John Welsh, John Fahy, Fred Boyle, Ben Cossett, John Canter. Operators — Thomas Johnson, H. D. Turney, G. W. Bra- shears, W. S. Courtwright, V. Ferguson, C. H. Boardman of the committee, and Messrs. Upson, Opperman, Harris, Corco- ran, Schafer and R. H. Johnson. John McBride was made chairman; F. S. Brooks and W. C. Pearce secretaries. After a spirited discussion on the points at issue had been indulged in. Chairman McBride was by motion instructed, and made the following appointments to interpret and define the agreement on day labor: W. S. Courtwright, H. D. Turney and Thomas Johnson for the operators; John Fahy, John Nugent and John Murphy for the miners. The committee’s report was adopted as follows : 1. Resolved, That drivers leave stables at ten minutes be- fore 7 o’clock a. m., and leave the mines at 5 o’clock p. m., for a day’s work. 2. Resolved, That men be paid by the hour, and that in the case of temporary stops during the day, all men in their places shall be considered employed and earning pay until notified by the superintendent or mine boss, of cessation of work for that day ; and in no case shall pay be for less than two hours in the morning’s work. This does not apply to afternoon work ; but, where mines work by the day, no change shall be made from the present system, on account of the extra time allowed by the operators, in quarters, halves, three-quarters and whole days. Comments on Mine Workers Journal 219 3. Resolved, That when any dumper has an assistant dumper, the assistant shall be considered as a dumper and paid dumper’s wages. 4. Resolved, That all men handling and cleaning lump coal on the railroad cars outside, be considered and paid as trim- mers. The question of firemen’s compensation was then taken up : 5. Resolved, That in consideration of the extra time given by firemen, their wages be $2 per day. 6. Resolved, That the scale of May 27, 1890, as to outside labor at $1.75 per day, be and the same is hereby reaffirmed. Being unable to agree on the day wage for trappers, the meeting adjourned. John McBride, Chairman, Frank S. Brooks and W. C. Pearce, Secretaries. “Ex-President Rae, of the United Mine Workers of Amer- ica, when going to the South, where he has accepted an engagement as general manager for the Jellico and Birdeye Coal Company, called at the office June 22, on his way there.” — United Mine Workers Journal, June 23, 1892. COMMENTS ON FIRST ISSUE OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS JOURNAL. AS OTHERS SEE US — A WELCOME. The first number of the United Mine Workers’ Journal was issued on Thursday last. It is, as its name indicates, the official organ of the United Mine Workers, and will voice their wishes and champion their interests. It is not the intention to displace or in any way rival or antagonize other papers that have in the past, and no doubt will continue in the future, to speak in the interest of the coal miners, but it will be another hand in the same harvest-field. The new paper is ably written and neatly printed, and looks like the beginning of a successful venture. We welcome our new co-worker for the emancipation of labor. — Journal of the Knights of Labor. 220 United Mine Workers of America CALCULATED TO DO GOOD. The initial copy of the United Mine Workers Journal was received at this office on last Saturday. Its general make-up is evidence of skillful hands, and its leading articles evidence of intellectual ability. We were pleased to receive it, and derived much profit from its perusal. Whilst pre-eminently a labor paper, a portion of its columns is filled with matter of an extraneous character that is very interesting. We gladly place it on our list of exchanges, and wish it a prosperous future. It is published in Columbus, Ohio. With brainy, con- servative men at the helm, papers of this kind are calculated to do a vast amount of good. — Houtzdale Advance. A CREDITABLE OUTPUT. The first number of the headquarters publication of the Journal of the United Mine Workers of America is to hand, and is a very creditable output of the new printing office and the news editors. It is rather more than an official publica- tion, however, and in the editorial departments the editors will find scope for the practice of the skill in journalism that comes only with natural aptitude for and experience in the work, and which is invariably missing in publications that have not the good fortune to have these qualities at com- mand. — National Labor Tribune. A TYPOGRAPHICAL BEAUTY. Number 1, Volume 1, of the United Mine Workers Journal has just reached our table. It is a six column folio, and typo- graphically is a beauty. It will be published every week, at Columbus, by the Executive Board of the United Mine Work- ers. If the initial number may be taken as a sample of what the paper will be, we can unhesitatingly say that it is the best miners’ paper in the country, and there is enough ability on the executive board to maintain its standard. — Spring Valley Gazette. WORTHY A LARGE CIRCULATION. Volume 1, Number 1, of the United Mine Workers Journal reached our table on Saturday. It is published at Columbus, Ohio. If the initial number is an index of what the paper Comment on First Issue of Journal 221 will be, it is worthy of a large circulation, especially among the mine workers, in whose interests it is sent out. It is a large, six-column quarto, and is crowded full of interesting labor news from various sections of the country . — The Fulton Sig'nal. “A LIGHT SPEEDER.’" We are in receipt of Volume 1, Number 1, of the United Mine Workers Journal, published by that organization, at Columbus, Ohio. It is an eight-page, six-column “light speeder” that will be useful to all miners. — Lonaconing, Md., Review. On June 23, 1892, Sub-District 6, of District No. 6, held a convention at Bridgeport, Ohio. The convention was called to order at 2 p. m. by President C. H. Smith, and the credentials committee, C. A. Robbins, Joseph Wardle and George Miller, reported the following names of delegates that were given seats in the convention: George McMillan, George Benlow, William Brown, Charles Robbins, Charles Henning, Hall Hogan, Adam Miller, Michael Jackson, Sherman Glasgow, Thomas McGough, Mathew Brooks, M. J. Young, Joseph Wardle, Mathew Charlton, M. W. Peters, Fin. Gallagher, G. W. Scheck and Lewis Long. After the appointment of committees, the convention ad- journed. SECOND day’s session. At this convention, resolutions were adopted as follows : Asking pay for dead work, narrow work, going through clay veins, and advising the district officers to try and bring about a joint meeting with operators to adjust grievances. The board meeting decided that no officer except the president and secretary, receive pay for attending conventions. The delegates represented 1,300 union men. C. H. Smith, President, Sherman Glasgow, Secretary. CHAPTER XL SUB-DISTRICT NO. 1, OF DISTRICT NO. 6, REORGAN- IZED. Corning, Ohio, July 4, 1892. According to call for convention of all the miners in the Hocking, outside of the Sunday Creek Valley, both pick and machine, a meeting was held at New Straitsville, Ohio, on Saturday, July 2, 1892, for the purpose of adopting the best means whereby each and every man can have a fair division of the work of the valley, to prevent discrimination against our best men, and if necessary, to recognize Sub-District No. 1. Delegates met in K. of L. hall at 9 o’clock sharp. President John Nugent called the convention to order, with W. C. Pearce acting as secretary. On motion, the chair appointed the following committee on credentials : Fred Dil- cher. Brush Fork; E. Riley, Nelsonville; J. S. Wilson, New Straitsville; and J. J. Eddy, Shawnee. The committee on credentials reported the following dele- gates entitled to seats in the convention: Thomas Morarity, Fred Dilcher, Jobs; J. J. Eddy, John 0. Davis, James Hum- phrey, W. W. Davis, Shawnee; Pat O’Conner, Thomas Leek, J. S. Wilson, New Straitsville; R. F. Friley, Glenwood; S. E. Holt, Sand Run; Levi Nutter, Brashears; R. J. Jones, Mur- ray City; John Cohagen, Haydenville; F. M. Ervine, Red- field; John Carnes, Andrew Brown, Enoch Riley, Thomas Reed, George Wend, Nelsonville; David Potter, Summers; John McGarvey, Johnsons; Jonathan Costlett, Hamley Run; M. Sweeney, Carbondale; Morgan Lewis, Buchtel; Edmond Thomas, Longstreth; Simon Lovett, Monday; representing three thousand and nine men. After a lengthy discussion by the delegates regarding con- ditions in different localities, in which quite a number took part. Brother J. J. Eddy moved and Brother Jonathan Costlett seconded, that we at once proceed to reorganize Sub-District No. 1. After further discussion, the vote was taken, all dele- gates voting in favor of reorganization except one. The chair declared the convention in favor of Sub-District No. 1. ( 222 ) Ohio Sub-District 1 Reorganized 223 On motion, the chair appointed the following committees : On reorganization, Thomas Morarity, J. J. Eddy, J. S. Wilson, E. Riley, Morgan Lewis. On regulations, Fred Dilcher, Thomas Leek, E. A. Thomas, W. W. Davis, S. E. Holt. Adjourned until 1 :30 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. At 1 :30 p. m., President Nugent announced the time had come to proceed with business. Motion, that Thomas Moore, of Orbiston, be allowed a seat in the convention. Report of committee on reorganization was as follows : Article I. Section 1. This organization shall be known as Sub- District No. 1, of District 6, of the U. M. W. A. Section 2. This organization shall comprise all mines, both pick and machine, in old Sub-District No. 1, and have jurisdiction over all L. U.’s and L. A.’s in the district. Section 3. The objects of this organization shall be to carry out the principles of justice and equity to the miners and mine laborers of this sub-district, and to maintain the principles of organization and all agreements entered into by the national and state organizations as to prices and usages in the performance of our work as craftsmen in this district. Article II — Officers and Duties. Section 1. The officers of this organization shall be one President or Master Workman, one Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, one Secretary-Treasurer, and an Executive Board of five members, two of whom shall be the President and Sec- retary, who, by virtue of their offices, shall be President and Secretary of the Executive Board. Section 2. The President or Master Workman shall pre- side at all conventions of the sub-district, sign all orders drawn on the Treasurer, and all documents that may require his signature. He shall fill all vacancies caused otherwise than by expiration of office. Section 3. The Vice-President or Worthy Foreman shall preside in the absence of the President or Master Workman, and perform such other duties as may be required of him by the President or Master Workman. Section 4. The Secretary-Treasurer shall record all pro- ceedings of the sub-district conventions and perform all other clerical work that may be assigned him by the President or Master Workman. He shall draw all orders on the Treasurer 224 United Mine Wokkers of America and shall receive all money from the secretaries of all Local Unions and Local Assemblies, and he shall receipt for the same. He shall cash all orders signed by the President or Master Workman, which shall be his vouchers in the settle- ment of his accounts. Upon his resignation, removal or expi- ration of office, he shall turn over all books, papers or other property belonging to the sub-district to his successor, and, for the faithful performance of his duties he shall give a bond of $200, to be approved by three or more members of the Executive Board, and deposit the same with the President or Master Workman. Section 5. Where any difficulty arises in the sub-district that cannot be amicably or satisfactorily adjusted by the mine committee or local, the local secretary shall transmit a de- tailed statement of the existing grievance to the President or Master Workman, who, after a careful investigation of the same, shall settle it if possible, but, should his decision prove .unsatisfactory to the mine or local interested, said mine or local shall have the right of appeal to the Executive Board. Should the President or Master Workman fail at any time to settle any grievance presented to him, he shall convene the Executive Board to consider the same and, should the board fail to effect a satisfactory adjustment, the case shall then be referred to the District President or Master Workman. Work shall be continued and no member shall be discharged pending the investigation of any grievance by the President or Master Workman or the Executive Board. Article III — 'Nomination and Election of Officers. Section 1. The nomination and election of officers shall be the same as specified in Article IV, Sections 1, 2, and 3, of the constitution and by-laws of District 6. Article IV — Salaries. Section 1. In addition to actual expenses, the Secretary- Treasurer shall receive $30 per annum, and the President or Master Workman and each member of the Executive Board, when called upon to act in their official capacity, $2.50 per day while so employed. Article V. Section 1. The revenue of this sub-district shall be de- rived from all local unions and local assemblies under its jurisdiction, which shall pay to the Secretary-Treasurer the sum of 1 cent per member per month. Section 2. The Executive Board shall have the power to reduce the per capita tax or assess the members whenever they deem it necessary. Constitution, Sub-District 1 of Ohio 225 Section 3. This sub-district shall meet quarterly, and the place of meeting be designated by the preceding convention. The first meeting shall be held in New Straitsville for the pur- pose of the election of officers. Section 4. Each local union and local assembly having paid all dues and assessments of this sub-district, shall be entitled to one vote for fifty members or less, and one vote for each additional fifty members or major fraction thereof. Lo- cals having more than one vote may give all votes to one delegate. Be it Resolved, That no man shall get work in any mine in this sub-district except miner’s sons coming of age accord- ing to law, without a good union card, after the first day of August, 1892. Article VI. Section 1. Amendments to this constitution shall only be made at the regular annual session of this sub-district, and all amendments must be submitted in writing. Section 2. Resolved, That any miner in our midst that is out of employment and whom the company will not hire, we take them in with us, and share our work with them, with the understanding that the men hired go back to their own mine when it starts up; be it further Resolved, That in a locality that has no work, the state and district president distribute the men of such locality where they can be handled the best and to the greatest ad- vantage to themselves and the organization. Section 3. Motion, that the first quarterly meeting be held in New Straitsville, on the last Tuesday in September, 1892. Section 4. That on account of location, Carbondale be considered in the Jackson county district. Resolved, That this Sub-District No. 1 indorse the action of the Sunday Creek miners in their enforcement of the day scale. Resolved, That this convention condemn all back-action screens, and indorse the action of our state officers in taking steps toward abolishing the same. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. President or Master Workman — Chas. Call, New Straits- ville. Vice-President or Worthy Foreman — Enoch Riley, Nelson- ville. Secretary-Treasurer — Fred Dilcher, Orbiston. 226 United Mine Workers of America Executive Board — J. J. Eddy, Shawnee; Morgan Lewis, Buchtel; R. J. Jones, Murray City. After the election of officers. President Nugent called President Call to the chair, who made a very able address. Resolved, That the proceedings of this convention be printed in the official journals, also in book form. Resolved, That next annual convention be held on the last Tuesday in March, 1893. All business being done, the convention adjourned. In August, 1892, Vice-President Penna, of the United Mine Workers of America, was at Louisville, Colorado, and issued a call for a miners’ convention, that was held at Pueblo, on Wednesday, August 10, 1892, and organized District 15, United Mine Workers of America. William Howells was elected president. A constitution was adopted, an executive board elected, and the president advised to canvass the coal field for the pur- pose of building up an organization throughout the state. On a visit to Starkville, Colorado, Vice-President Penna met his old friend, and once co-worker, Daniel McLaughlin, and said of him : “He is comfortably situated, beloved by his friends and respected by his employers; conservative and just in his treatment of employes as he ever was to the operators when employed by us. His name is known in every mining camp in Colorado and, with the exception of a possible half dozen men, the verdict is unanimous that he is the same honest old Dan. I am proud of this, as showing that a man can be a man under any and all circumstances, if the stuff is in him.” COMMENTS OF EDITOR JOHN KANE. United Mine Workers Journal, September 1, 1892. Emperor William of Germany, it is reported, is deeply concerned over the alarming proportions of the cholera epi- demic in Europe. He is reported as pushing vigorous measures to save the W. C. Pearce, Secretary. VICE-PRESIDENT PENNA. b One Sub-District in Hocking Valley 227 troops. But why the troops any more than the civilians? If his efforts were directed to all in an equal degree, there would be less reason to think that his heart was set more on military pomp and power than on the social progress of the Fatherland. Emperors though, as a rule, like their armies in about the same manner that the poacher likes his ferret, and it is natu- ral that they should try to preserve them. It helps them to be emperors and to cut a dash. The National Executive Board of the United Mine Workers of America met at Columbus, Ohio, September 12 and 13, 1892, and after mapping out a plan, or general campaign, for the future, Michael Ratchford was unanimously elected to fill the unexpired term of John P. Jones, who had resigned as a member of the board, owing to his having been appointed as one of the seven assistant mine inspectors for Ohio. FIRST QUARTERLY MEETING OF SUB-DISTRICT 1, DISTRICT 6. PROCEEDINGS. The first quarterly meeting of Sub-District 1 of District 6, was held at New Straitsville, Ohio, on September 27, 1892, and after a very lengthy discussion on the machine sub-district, the convention got down to business and the president ap- pointed the committees. The committee on credentials reported, and the following delegates were found to have seats in the convention : J. W. True, Robert Griffith, Upson’s ; H. J. Brown, Whipporwill ; Charles E. Whittington, day men, Upson’s ; Adam McLain, Smith’s ; and M. Bealor, XX, Shawnee; Henry Varity, Raybould’s; Enoch Riley, Buckeye; George Wend, Hocking Valley mine; G. W. Pearce, Poston’s, and J. M. Stillwell, Juniper and Lampman, Nelsonville; Simon Lovett, No. 3, Monday; J. M. Dilley, No. 29, Murray City; Edmond Thomas, L. U. 277, Longstreth; Levi Nutter, U. U. 355, Brashears; T. F. Moriarity, Job’s mine, and J. B. Glancy, Job’s mine, Orbison; J. S. Wilson, New Straitsville; Sam Shuttleworth, Morris mine. Sand Run; Jonathan Coslett, Hamley Run, representing Local Association and Local Union. The following resolution was passed : 228 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That we favor a complete organization of Hocking, Perry and Athens counties including both pick and machine miners and mine laborers into a sub-district of dis- trict 6. This motion was adopted by a unanimous vote of the convention and it seemed to bring with it that good feeling that should and must exist between the pick and machine miners. This was the majority report and another resolution of the minority was presented by Brother Moriarity and after a great deal of controversy by the convention and lots of good points brought to bear, on the same it was passed without a dissenting vote. Below find the resolution as passed : Gentlemen and Brothers of Sub-district No. 1 : As there is a misunderstanding in regard to the necessity of holding a machine district and still continue sub-district No. 1, I will say as one of your committee on resolutions that it is of absolute necessity to continue the machine sub-district at Murray City which I will state reasons for. We have had advice to formulate said district through one or two of our ablest diplomatists, namely, J. P. Jones and John Nugent, both officials of high standing in the United Mine Workers of America. Their advice was to organize a machine sub-district in order to amicably understand each other as machine miners and become a unit on any question of interest, as long as they keep within the bounds of reason and in conformity with the pick miners. Resolved, That we indorse the agreement of the adjust- ment of wet entry prices, which were made July 27, 1892, and are opposed to any change whatever. Resolved, That a member falling in arrears have the privilege of paying up his dues into the local union or local assembly where he may reside; and this resolution as pre- sented refers back to the constitution which will be printed in a very short time and sent to all local assemblies and local unions in the district. Resolved, That we favor the enforcement of Article V, Section 4, of the constitution in relation to working cards in the sub-district ; latter clause of Section 4. Resolved, That we understand the agreement between the operators and miners that where the company does the harnessing that the drivers leave the stable at ten minutes to 7 o’clock, and where the drivers have to do the harnessing, the drivers commence to harness at ten minutes before 7 Hocking Machine Miners’ Convention 229 o’clock and leave the barn as soon as possible thereafter. This to be rigidly enforced on and after October 1, 1892, throughout this Sub-district 1. Our worthy district president, Brother Nugent, came in on the 10:30 train and gave us a brotherly and very sensible talk on the condition of things in general throughout the state. Brother Pritchard of Sunday Creek, of United Mine Workers’ Journal, was a very attentive visitor and told us a few things concerning matters on the other side of the valley. Our next convention will be held in Shawnee, the date to be set by President Call. Would say to the miners of Sunday Creek, those who may not happen to get my letter, that I would like them to act on the resolution favoring a complete organization of the three counties into one sub-district of district No. 6, whether they are or not in favor of it, and send their answer to me at once, so that I can report to the president, that the call for the next meeting at Shawnee may be set. Fred Dilcher, Secretary. HOCKING VALLEY MACHINE MEN IN CONVENTION. Murray City, Ohio, October 1, 1892. President Farms took the chair and the following delegates were present: Marion George, Brashears; Jesse DeVore, Blatchford; Daniel Oldroyd, Jacksonville; Joseph Hunter, Nelsonville; Samuel Shuttleworth, Sand Run; M. Harrington, Carrington ; Thomas Moriarity, R. H. Morrison, Orbiston. The first business was the resolution passed at Straitsville by Sub-district No. 1 in regard to the consolidation of the three counties into one sub-district both pick and machine miners and mine laborers. The following was adopted: Resolved, That the question of the formation of the three counties into one sub-district, both pick and machine miners and mine laborers is referred back to our constituents for their action. Their answer to be returned at once to the secretary of machine and Sub-district No. 1. A resolution was offered in regard to the initiation fee of the machine sub-district. As District No. 1 passed that no one 230 United Mine Workers of America could get work in the district without a good clearance card from the United Mine Workers of America, the machine dis- trict reconsidered their initiation fee and passed this resolu- tion: Resolved, That we favor the reconsideration of the initia- tion fee in the machine sub-district, and we submit it back to our constituents for their action; their answer to be re- turned at our next meeting. The operators called upon our district president and secre- tary and asked that the loading of cannel coal in machine mines be arbitrated and that a committee of four be appointed, two from the miners’ side and two from the operators’ side, and in case that the four could not settle the matter the fifth man was to be called upon for his decision. Brother Charles Call, president of Sub-District 1, came down by instructions from District President Nugent, and the convention appointed the committee asked for by the operators, and by Brother Nugent, President W. E. Farms, and Secretary Fred Dilcher were appointed upon the board as the miner’s representatives and will meet the operators in Columbus in a very short time on very important matters, the double shift entries and the loading of cannel coal, and it is our desire that both cases will be decided at the same time to save an extra expense of two separate meetings of the board, and our constituents are getting tired of waiting any longer for the settlement of the double shift entry question. The next resolution was passed by an unanimous vote of the convention, representing over 2,000 miners, and there is a great deal of good, honest, common sense in it : Whereas, It is customary and more or less general with quite a number of our machine operators, when places get too hard or too dangerous to be worked with machines, to give them to the miners to be worked with the pick, and as soon as they get normal and safe again they are again turned into machine places; and, whereas, we believe that this is neither fair, reasonable or in harmony with the spirit of our agreement of prices that we should only have hard or unsafe places to work in when we are working with the pick and receiving only 70 cents per ton; therefore. District 23 Convention, October, 1892. 231 Resolved, That when any case similar to the aforesaid arises that they be paid extra for ; and Resolved, further. That this question be referred to our constituents for their consideration, their answer to be re- turned at our next regular meeting. W. E. Farms, President. Fred Dilcher, Secretary. OFFICIAL REPORT. CONVENTION PROCEEDINGS OF DISTRICT 23 EARLY IN OCTOBER, 1892. DISTRICT LAWS AND CONSTITUTION ADOPTED AND OTHER WORK DONE. Central City Kentucky. At 9 :30 a. m., the convention was called to order, after which the following committee on credentials was appointed : J. B. Brace, W. G. Fulkerson, and Chris Collingwood. They reported delegates as follows; R. A. Bostic, H. C. Johnson, W. G. Fulkerson, J. C. Collingwood, Edward Brown, J. B. Brace, M. F. Ward, James Gillan. Committee on Laws — W. G. Fulkerson, J. B. Brace, R. A. Bostic, and Chris Collingwood. Committee on Good of the Order — James Gillan, M. F. Ward, and Edward Brown. The convention then adjourned until 1 o’clock, in order to give the committees time to make up their reports. AFTERNOON SESSION. The committee on by-laws made the following report : We, your committee on by-laws, beg leave to recommend that we adopt the preamble and constitution of the national organ- ization. The recommendation was adopted. The following district constitution was read and approved : Article I . — Name, Objects and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This organization shall be known as the United Mine Workers of America District 23, composed of National Trade Assembly 135, Knights of Labor and the National Progressive Union. Sec. 2. The objects of this union are to unite mine em- ployes and ameliorate their condition by methods of concilia- tion, arbitration or strikes. 232 United Mine Workers of America Sec. 3. This union shall have jurisdiction over all its affiliated bodies which shall be governed in all trade matters by this constitution. Article II. Section 1. The officers of this district shall be one presi- dent or master workman, one vice-president or worthy fore- man, one secretary-treasurer, and an executive board of five members, three of whom shall be the president, vice-presi- dent and secretary -treasurer, who shall be elected at each con- vention. Sec. 2. The president or master workman shall preside at all general meetings of the union; he shall sign all official documents when satisfied of their correctness. He shall, with the consent of the executive board, fill by appointment, all vacancies occurring in the district, and in like manner he is empowered to suspend or remove any district officer for insubordination, or just and sufficient cause. Sec. 3. The secretary-treasurer shall have charge of and preserve all books, documents, and effects of the district office, shall record proceedings of all conventions and of meetings of the executive board and shall keep copies of important letters sent out by him; he shall receive and receipt for all money and pay all current expenses, he shall prepare and submit to the locals a quarterly report of all money received and disbursed and perform such other duties as may be assigned him. Sec. 4. The executive board shall constitute the district board of arbitration and conciliation, shall execute orders of district conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the working of the union. The board shall be convened by the president or master workman or by the secretary-treasurer at the request of three members of said board. Article III. Section 1. The revenue of the union shall be derived from local unions and local assemblies which shall pay direct to the district secretary-treasurer 10 cents per month per member; fractional members shall pay in proportion. Sec. 2. The convention shall be held semi-annually on the second Tuesday in March and September, at such place as shall be determined upon bj^ each preceding meeting. Special conventions shall be called by the president or master work- man when so instructed by the executive board or at the re- quest of five local unions or local assemblies. Sec. 3. No local assembly or local union shall be entitled to representation in district convention who has not in every particular complied with the constitution of the district. Constitution District 23, 1892. 233 Article IV. Section 1. When trouble of a local character arises be- tween members of any local assembly or local union and their employers the officers of said locals shall endeavor to effect an amicable adjustment, and failing in this, they shall im- mediately notify the district officers, who shall immediately investigate the cause of complaint. Article V . — Qualifications and Salary of Officers. Section 1. A member in good standing in either branch of the organization shall be eligible to hold office in the dis- trict, provided he has been a member of an affiliated local union or local assembly for six months prior to his election, and becomes a member of both branches before qualifying for the office to which he has been elected. Article VI. Section 1. No person a member of the organization who holds a financial' or clearance card, showing him to be a financial member and in good standing, shall be debarred or hindered from obtaining work on account of race, creed or nationality. Sec. 2. Any local assembly or local union, who shall wil- fully violate the above shall, if proven guilty, for the first offense be suspended from all rights and privileges for three months, and for the second’ offense, suspended for six months or as long as is deemed best by the district executive board. The boundary of this. District 23, includes all the coal fields in Kentucky, southwest of the mountain districts in Kentucky, and Tennessee south of Chattanooga. Article VII. — Officers’ Salaries. Section 1. The president or master workman, secretary- treasurer, vice-president or worthy foreman and members of the executive board shall receive $2 per day and actual expense (which is board and car fare). The secretary-treasurer shall receive $5 per month for services, etc., as secretary. Sec. 2. All members of the executive board are under the supervision of the president or master workman and in no case are they entitled k) pay for services unless they are ordered to do and render said services by the president or secretary. Sec. 3. The above amount of per capita tax shall be paid unless the above amount is deemed more than an adequate amount to pay expenses, in which event the per capita tax shall be no more than 6 cents per member. CHAPTER XII. PRESIDENT CALL OF SUB-DISTRICT 1 WRITES VIGOR- OUSLY ON THE QUESTIONS AFFECTING PICK AND MACHINE MINERS. New Straitsville, Ohio, October 17, 1892. The first quarterly meeting of Sub-district 1 was held in New Straitsville, September 27, and although the miners were not all duly notified, yet there was a large representation from the district. The machine question was paramount to all others in the convention, which was stated in the secretary’s report in the United Mine Wor'kers’ Journal. But I will have to correct a mistake he made in his report. He stated that the convention was a unit on allowing the machine sub-district to conduct their own affairs, as they were better qualified to do so. I will say for the benefit of the machine miners who have already withdrawn from the machine district, that the conven- tion did nothing of the kind. The feeling of the delegates was just the reverse. But the delegates thought it wise to not interfere with that district at present, and that time would demonstrate to the machine miners that we have no use for two sub-districts. Instead of being divided into four sub- districts Numbers 1, 8, 9, and machine, I advised the calling of the three counties together. Perry, Hocking and Athens, and then form a sub-district of District 6, not of machine miners or pick miners, but of members of the United IMine Workers of America; and a resolution was passed in accord- ance with my recommendation, and I hope it will meet the approval of the miners in the other district. I received a letter from Chris Evans, secretary of the American Federation of Labor, on the machine question, addressed to the miners of the Hocking Valley, which I read to the convention and which was indorsed by all the delegates present. He said in part, “I am led to understand that one of the questions you are called upon to discuss is: What is the relation of the pick miner to his later rival, the machine? That the machine mining will play a very important part in ( 234 ) One Sub-District for Hocking Valley 235 mining coal in the future there is no room for any doubt. To deal with this matter separately will only weaken the miner’s cause, while a combination of forces will add great strength and vigor to the case you have before you. The pick miner of today may be the machine miner of tomorrow, hence, how necessary it is for them to understand each other’s wants, to feel each other’s cares, and to act in harmony upon all ques- tions that affect their collective interests alike. ‘T also see in the last issue of the United Mine Workers’ Journal that President Nugent is in favor of the miners of the three counties forming one sub-district. I am led to believe that if such a district was formed that there would be no iron- clad presented to the miners of Congo, as I understand by Brother R. L. Davis’ letter there has been, but I hope the miners will refuse to sign such a contract, and if the miners of that mine allow a member to be discharged for refusing to sign such an infamous sheet they are not worthy to be called union men, and the officers of the organization should stop it and at once, if a car of coal should never go up the Congo shaft. What benefit would it be for them to pay dues to an organization and then sign a contract to enslave them- selves. I consider a contract of that kind an insult to the miners of District 6. We are not in Virginia or Tennessee, we are in Ohio.” One of the questions that will be discussed at our next convention will be an advance on the price of machine mining. After eight years of bitter experience we find that the ma- chine miner is not paid equal to the pick miner. An advance on machine mining can only be obtained by a thorough organ- ization of both pick and machine miners. To do this I advise the miners who are now out of the organization to get in and the men who already belong to place themselves in a position to not only ask for an advance on the 1st day of May next, but demand it. I was told by a responsible operator that there is as much difference between the electric cutting machine and the com- pressed air in cost of production as there is between the com- pressed air and the pick mining. If this statement be true, which I believe it to be, it is time the miner was receiving his share of the benefits derived from the cutting machine. 236 United Mine Workers of America SUB-DISTRICT MINE CONVENTION. Glouster, Ohio, December 10, 1892. The convention was called to order by President A. A. Adams, minutes of meeting held November 12 read and ap- proved. Three delegates — John Fahy, A. A. Adams and Philip Davis were elected by the convention to represent Sub-district No. 9 at the joint meeting of the counties of Athens, Perry and Hocking to be held at Shawnee, Ohio, December 28, 1892. Delegates in attendance follow : John Allen, David Barclay, Thomas Winning, Richard Brown, John Penrod, Hugh Harvey, D. C. North, Thomas Healy, Fred Zimmer, Philip Davis, John Fahy, A. A. Adams, Henry Bartell. Officers elected — A. A. Adams, President; David Barclay, Vice-President, John Fahy, Secretary. Executive board members — Fred. Zimmer, Philip Davis, D. C. North and Thomas Healy. The auditing committee reported the accounts of Secre- tary Fahy correct with a balance in the treasury of $80.78 and a membership of 1,600 in the sub-district. A. A. Adams, President. John Fahy, Secretary. ONE SUB-DISTRICT FOR ATHENS, HOCKING AND PERRY COUNTIES, OHIO. On December 28, 1892, a convention was held at Shawnee, Ohio, for the purpose of organizing a sub-district of District No. 6, United Mine Workers of America. The convention was called to order by John Nugent, the district president, at 9 o’clock a. m. The committee on credentials consisting of John Fahy of Jacksonville, Edwards of Shawnee, William Jenkins of Corn- ing and Fred. Dilcher of Orbiston, reported forty delegates entitled to seats. Considerable discussion was indulged in as to what would serve best the interests involved in the forma- tion of the proposed project. One Sub-District for Hocking Valley 237 A. A. Adams, Charles Call, Thomas Morarity, Harry Jones, George Wend, 0. Dolman, Isaac Jones, Robert Kirkley, W. C. Pearce and J. J. Eddy were among the representatives pres- ent. The committee appointed on general rules, and laws to govern the new-sub-district reported as follows : Article I. Section 1. This organization shall be known as the Hocking, Perry and Athens county consolidation and shall form a sub-district of District 6, United Mine Workers of America. Sec. 2. It shall provide for a uniformity of rules and conditions without conflicting in any way with the organ- ization now in existence and the ruling of this body shall rank superior to all other organizations of the three counties named. Sec. 3. We are in favor of adopting the constitution of District 6 as the constitution of this body and that the officers of District 6 be the presiding officers of this convention, and we also recommend that the meetings be held semi-annually. After the report of the committee was given to the con- vention, a motion made by Brother 0. Dolman to accept com- mittee’s report was carried. The convention decided to meet at Shawnee every six months on the last Tuesday in March and the last Tuesday in September each year. There were several resolutions brought in by this com- mittee, but were sent back to be brought before the com- mittee appointed for the same. The next was a resolution to have a committee appointed for the purpose of having all the rules now in existence pre- sented to them. This committee to be given power to have the same printed. All mines having any rules to submit please send them to W. C. Pearce, Corning, Ohio, and through him they will be sent to the committee, consisting of the following brothers: Robert Kirkley, J. J. Eddy and A. A. Adams. The convention having finished its business the time came for adjournment, to make way for convention of District No. 1. By this new move it brings together over 6,000 miners who are as solid as any labor organization in the United States. 238 United Mine Workers of America After the consolidated convention had adjourned, Presi- dent Call of District No. 1, called the convention together and after a few remarks a motion by Brother Moriarity to adjourn was made and convention adjourned, subject to call of the president. Charles Call, President. Fred Dilcher, Secretary. SUB-DISTRICT NO. 1 CONSOLIDATED RULES FOR ATHENS, HOCKING AND PERRY COUNTIES, OHIO. Corning, Ohio, January 28, 1893. To John Nugent and Delegates to the Consolidated Sub- District, Greeting: We, your committee on rules, beg to submit the following as general rules to govern the three counties, after a careful examination and close study of all the rules sent in by the various locals, and trust they will meet your favorable con- sideration as we unanimously recommend them for adoption. Yours truly, Robert Kirkley, John J. Eddy, A. A. Adams, Committee. Article I. Section 1. Each and every mine in the counties of Athens, Perry and Hocking shall be considered as a local union of the consolidated sub-district, and all dues for the organization shall be checked off at the mines. Sec. 2. Each local shall elect such officers as are deemed necessary to carry on the business of the locals. Any mine not having local officers shall be considered unorganized. Sec. 3. No person shall be employed in the local unless he produces a regular transfer card of the United IMine Workers of America, or by paying an entrance fee of $5, but in no case will he be admitted, either by card or fee, while members of the local are out of employment. Article II. — Hours of Labor. Section 1. Nine hours shall constitute a day’s work for all hands and all overtime shall be paid for on a nine-hour basis. Miners must not enter the mine before 7 o’clock a. m., nor be later than 6 o’clock p. m. in coming out each day, ex- Hocking Valley Joint Agreements 239 cept Saturday, when all must be out by 1 o’clock p. m. under penalty of stopping their turn next day the mine works. Sec. 2. Day hands will not be allowed to mine coal, but shall have a share of all dead work in or around the mine, excepting pumping, tracklaying, timbering or rock blasting, the same considered special work, and no miners will do day work while day men are unemployed. Sec. 3. All work for day men shall begin whenever charge is taken of the company’s property, and, shall cease when the same is relinquished. Article III. — Dead and Extra Work. Section 1. In all mines where places are worked night and day such places shall be paid 50 cents per yard, both in pick and machine mines. Sec. 2. All wet and deficient work shall be paid for at such rates as may be agreed upon by the mine boss, mine committee and parties doing the work; dry shall mean ab- solutely no water, in the place. Article IV. — Docking. Section 1. The system of docking known as the “Double Dock” shall be enforced at all mines in the district. For 100 pounds of dirt, 200 pounds shall be deducted and for 200 pounds of dirt, 400 pounds shall be deducted, etc. Sec. 2. No mine or local shall make any rule or enforce any resolution in conflict with the provisions of the foregoing rules or to affect any other mine or local in the sub-district. A SUMMARY OF HOCKING VALLEY, OHIO, JOINT AGREEMENTS FOR DATES NAMED. February 16, 1893. Break-Throughs. Resolved, That the price for all dry break-throughs be- tween rooms shall be 50 cents per yard less than regular dry entry price. (Agreement of June 19, 20, 1888.) The price for break-throughs between entries shall be the same as for entry work. (Agreement August 31, 1888.) Checkoff. Resolved, The checkoff to be restored by the companies where it does not exist. (Agreement, May 26, 27, 28, 1890.) Cutting and Drilling. The price of cutting and drilling, when done by the ton, shall remain the same as they were at the time this arbitra- 240 United Mine Workers op America tion commenced and the companies shall have the right to employ cutters and drillers by the day; but when the miners are required to do their own drilling they shall receive the same price per ton as is paid at Rend’s mine at Jacksonville, Ohio. (Agreement, January 4, 1887.) N. B. Just prior to the arbitration of January, 1887, the prices of cutting and drilling by the ton in the Hocking Valley were : Cts. per ton With Lechner machines, in rooms .08 With Lechner machines, in entries .11 With Harrison macliines, in rooms .12i With Harrison machines, in entries .13J These rates, and hand drilling at 3 cents per ton, as in effect at Rend’s mine at Jacksonville at date referred to above, are still in force at this date, 1892. Clay Veins. Agreement of May 26, 27, 28, 1890, reads : Resolved, That where clay veins are met in mines, the miner or miners together with the mine boss, shall determine the price or worth of driving through and in the event of their failing to agree, they shall call in the local committee. It is proposed that this rule be amended so that the last clause shall read : They shall refer it to the standing com- mittee. Da]/ Lalor. Scale of May 27, 1890, as printed and circulated : Per day Track layers .$2.25 Drivers 2.00 Inside day labor 2.00 Dumpers 2.00 Trimmers 2.00 Outside day lalior 1.75 Trappers .75 Where a miner is called upon by the boss to perform day labor he shall receive not less than $2 per day, and no cars be made up for time lost in that way. It shall be optional with the miner, however, to accept such day labor. (Agreement May 26, 27, 28, 1890.) Drivers — Resolved, that drivers leave stables at ten min- utes before seven o’clock a. m., and leave the mines at five o’clock p. m. for a day’s work. (Agreement of June 13, 1892.) Inasmuch as it was the intent and meaning of the above resolution, so conceded by both parties in interest, that the drivers leave their working places at 5 p. m. and not before, it is suggested that this rule be amended to read; and leave their working places at 5 o’clock p. m., for a day’s work. Hocking Valley Joint Agreements 241 Temporary stops, etc. — Resolved, That day men be paid by the hour, and that in case of temporary stops during the day, all men in their places shall be considered employed and earning full pay until notified by the superintendent or mine boss of cessation of work for that day; and in no case shall pay be for less than two hours in the morning’s work. This does not apply to afternoon work, but where mines work by the day, no change shall be made from the present system, on account of time allowed by the operators, in quarters, halves, three-quarters and whole days. (Agreement of June 13, 1892.) Assistant dumpers — When any dumper has an assistant dumper, the assistant shall be considered as a dumper and be paid dumper’s wages. (Agreement of June 13, 1892.) Trimmers — All men handling and cleaning lump coal on the railroad cars outside shall be considered and paid as trimmers. (Agreement of June 13, 1892.) Dumpers, Trimmers — When the mines work one-half to three-quarters day, and mine boss puts either dumper or trimmer to finish out the day cleaning up bone coal, or any other work about hoppers, he shall receive regular trimmer’s or dumper’s wages ; and in case the mine is idle, if said mine boss should hire dumpers and trimmers to clean up bone coal or perform any other outside work, said men shall be paid regular outside day’s wages ; giving the company the privilege to hire other men to perform the above labor at regular scale rates. (Agreement of July 27, 1892.) N. B. It was also discussed and agreed at the meeting of July 27, 1892, that the rule which applies to outside day labor also applies to inside labor. Fireman — Resolved, That in consideration of the extra time given by the firemen, their wages be $2 per day. (Agree- ment of June 13, 1892.) Outside labor — Scale of May 27, 1890, as to outside labor at $1.75 per day reaffirmed. (Agreement of June 13, 1892.) Hours for a day’s work — Resolved, That nine hours be a day’s work, and that where it is absolutely necessary to work more than nine hours, the extra time shall be paid for on the nine-hour basis. (Agreement of May 26, 27, 28, 1890.) Pumpers — Shall receive no less than $40 per month, and such rate beyond that price as shall be agreed upon between pumpers and mine boss. (Agreement of May 27, 1890.) Entries. The entries shall be driven as fast as operators desire or conditions permit, but in no case will entry miners be allowed more cars per week than room miners, and at least once each 242 United Mine Workers of America week the turn shall be made uniform throughout the mine for the time previously worked. If, however, the regular turn will not allow cars enough to drive entries as fast as desired, the operators shall increase the number of miners in each entry so that by giving to each the regular turn, the entries shall be driven as rapidly as two miners could do with full work. If, however, the room men decline to take their places in the entries when requested to do so by the operators, then the entry men shall have free turns until such times as the entries are driven the required length, (Agreement of Jan- uary 5, 1890.) Double shift and wet entries — Shall be paid for at such additional rates per yard, as may be agreed upon by the mine boss and the entry men. (Agreement of January 23, 1888.) Wet entries — Resolved, That the price of driving wet entries be made by and between the mine boss and the miner driving them ; that in case they fail to agree on price, the matter be submitted to the miners and operators of this joint committee, who will investigate and agree on price; if they fail to agree, to call in a third party mutually agreed upon, whose decision shall be final; work to continue during the investigation, and work to be paid for at rate of dry entry. If any additional price is finally agreed to it shall date from date of the commencement of the investigation; this agree- ment not to affect local agreements now existing in wet en- tries. (Agreement of July 27, 1892.) Sigle shift entry — Resolved, That the interpretation of the contract shall be that the price of single shift dry entries shall be $1.75 per yard from May 1, 1888, to May 1, 1889; and that thereafter the basis shall be $1.75 per yard on the rate of 70 cent mining, and a rise or decline of 121/2 cents per yard on every rise or decline of 5 cents in the price of mining. (Agreement of June 19, 20, 1888.) Double shift — Whereas, The rule has been established in the Hocking Valley in the past years that two men work in each entry, and that in addition to entry coal, break-throughs and coal from room necks, a place has been found for men working face entries ; therefore, resolved, that the term “double shift” be applied to this same work when it is done in the night, and further resolved, that we furnish face entiy men with necks to load in when their entries are not cut or not in working condition. (Agreement of l\Iay 24, 1892.) Double shift entry, machine mines — Rate submitted to arbitration, by agreement of May 24, 1892. Gh'ievance Committee and Ariitration. The committee of three operators and three miners, as per the agreement of May 27, 1890, being obsolete, never having Hocking Valley Joint Agreements 243 been called upon to act, and a standing committee having been appointed by the operators in May, 1892, to take up with the miners’ officers or representatives all questions of contro- versy, it is suggested that the following take the place of the aforesaid resolution of May 27, 1890, viz : No strike or lock-out shall take place until the matter in dispute shall have been acted upon by the miners’ Ohio officers and the operators’ standing committee. Loading. Taking effect September 1, 1888, when the price of pick mining is 65 cents per ton in mines in the Hocking Valley and Toledo and Ohio Central district, loading in rooms shall be, when the drilling is done by the operator, 321/2 cents per ton; when loading and drilling are both done by the miner, 351/^ cents per ton. Loading in entries when drilling is done by the operator, shall be 41 cents per ton ; when drilling and loading are done by the miners, 44 cents per ton. Loading in break-throughs between rooms, 6 cents per ton above the price for loading in rooms, or when drilling is done by the operator, 381/2 cents per ton ; when drilling is done by the miner, 41^ cents per ton. When the pick mining advances to 70 cents per ton, load- ing in rooms shall be, when drilling is done by the operator, 35 cents per ton ; when drilling is done by the miner, 38 cents per ton. Loading in entries shall be, when drilling is done by the operator, 431/2 cents per ton; when drilling is done by the miner, 461/2 cents per ton. (Agreement of August 31, 1888.) Mining. The joint convention of miners and operators of Ohio, at Lyndon Hall, Columbus, on April 7, 1892, fixed the rate of mining screened lump coal in the Hocking Valley from May 1, 1892, to May 1, 1893 (the same as for the year closing May 1, 1892) at 70 cents per ton; the recognized relative price here- tofore existing to be paid in the other Ohio district, viz., Jackson 70, Belmont 70, and Tuscarawas Valley 85 cents per ton. Narrow work — Resolved, That all narrow work done in turning pick rooms over eighteen feet be paid for per yard the same as entry, and all narrow work done in turning ma- chine rooms be paid machine entry prices; and, Resolved, That miners working in narrow work will be allowed a free turn until they are eight cars ahead, then be stopped and the 244 United Mine Workers of America turn squared at the end of each week. (Agreement of Mav 26, 27, 28, 1890.) Resolved, That machine entry price be paid for all narrow work with the exception of break-throughs between rooms; all other demands having been withdrawn, (May 14, 1891.) Overloading Cars. The loading of cars too heavily often causes loss to a company by reason of breakage, etc., yet we recognize the fact that miners are not able to judge the exact amount of coal they place within a car; therefore, to protect each party from unnecessary loss a limit shall be fixed by each operator at each mine as to the amount cars should contain, and all coal placed in a car in excess of this limit shall go to the company, except where a miner loads two or more cars in any one day, some of which contains coal in excess of the limit agreed upon and others with less than the limited amount; when this occurs, 200 pounds of the excess shall be given to the car belonging to the same miner containing 200 or more pounds less than the limit agreed upon. (Agreement of Jan- uary 5, 1888; reaffirmed May 26, 27, 28, 1890.) Rooms and Room Turning. Resolved, That there be a general demand for the restora- tion of the thirty-foot room, and two tracks in each room where practicable. (Agreement of May 26, 27, 28, 1890.) Two men, two rooms — Resolved, That the custom hereto- fore existing, of giving each twm men two rooms, be con- tinued as far as practicable. (Agreement of May 14, 1891.) Run of Mine Coal. Resolved, That the price for mining pick mined run of mine coal shall be five-sevenths (5-7) of the price of mining screened lump coal; it being understood and agreed that the operator shall have the option of either paying for run of mine coal at the rate of 5-7 of the price paid for mining screened lump coal, or weighing out the lump and settling for it at the then prevailing rate for mining screened lump coal. (Agreement June 19, 20, 1888.) Sharpening. Resolved, That the price of tool sharpening shall be at the rate of one cent on the dollar. (Agreement June 19, 20, 1888.) In March, 1893, the following appears in a lengthy article written by John McBride, President of the United Mine Workers of America, on its membership: Ohio Membership and Taxes Paid 245 When considered from a collective standpoint, we are will- ing to admit that the Ohio miners pay a greater aggregate sum to the national union than is derived from those in other states, but as the burden of taxation is and should be measured by the amount each member in his individual capacity pays to maintain the national union, we must insist that Ohio mem- bers of the United Mine Workers pay less than do members in any other state or district to sustain the union. In Ohio, members pay a 15-cent monthly tax to the district and national union, while in other districts, outside of Ohio, this tax is 20 and 25 cents per month, and those who pay it are as loyal and true as are the Ohio miners. The increase in Ohio membership during the past year should be a source of pleasure in itself to those who now find fault. There are not, as asserted by “An Old Unionist,” 14,000 members in Ohio paying to the national union, and there never were that many. The Ohio members for January, 1892, numbered 9,645, and for January, 1893, 11,932, an in- crease during the year of 2,287. The paid-up membership in the national union in Jan- uary, 1892, was 13,955, which only left 4,310 members out- side of Ohio. The national membership in January, 1893, was 20,187, an increase during the year of 6,232 ; by deducting the Ohio mem- bership from the national membership in January last there are 8,255 members .outside of Ohio. This increase is not what it should be, but it is too substantial both in the state and else- where to be sneered at. It should also be borne in mind that in 1890 and 1891 the national organization tax paid by Ohio miners was $2.40 per member, whereas during the past year only $1.20 was paid. This was not increasing the taxation, was it? In March, 1893, Sub-District 1 of District 6, United Mine Workers of America, held a convention at New Straitsville, Ohio. The meeting was called to order by President Charles Call and a committee on credentials appointed that reported the following delegates entitled to seats in the convention : Thomas Taylor, mine 5, New Straitsville; Patrick Calahan, Blacks; Foster Hart, Murray City mine; W. J. Ryan, E. and M. mine. Sand Run; Thomas Reed, Buckeye mine, Nelsonville; Ed Call, mine 3, Straitsville; Charles Walker, Hamley Run mine; Samuel Foreman, C. L. Poston’s mine, Nelsonville; F. Weighmiller, Raybould Brothers, Nelsonville; David Potter, 246 United Mine Workers of America Sowers mine, Sand Run; George Thompson, Shawnee Valley mine, Shawnee; Michael Welsh, mine 11, Straitsville ; Levi Nutter, Brashears mine; J. W. Grimstead, Job’s mine, Brush Fork; Roger Lloyd, mine 3, day hands, Straitsville; Thomas Padden, Lost Run mine, Straitsville; Edmund Thomas, Longstreth mine; William Richards, Whip-poor-will mine, Shawnee; Thomas Meikle, XX mine, day hands, Shawnee; Ebenezer Jones, XX mine, Shawnee; J. W. Vaughn, Upson’s mine, Shawnee; W. T. Evans, Job’s mine. Brush Fork. The above delegates represented 3,300 men. The president appointed the following committees: On resolutions — F. Weighmiller, Edward Call, James Grimstead, J. J. Eddy and Ed. Thomas ; On constitution — George Thomp- son, Thomas Padden and Levi Nutter; Auditing committee — Michael Welsh, J. Vaughn and W. J. Ryan. Coal operators were present in the interest of a more equal distribution of railroad cars at the mines, and a resolution jointly agreed to was presented to the railroad companies ask- ing their aid for a fair division of cars at all the mines in the Hocking district. It was also jointly agreed to elect what was termed a turnkeeper whose duties were to watch for the number of cars loaded and advise the railroad companies each day what mines were entitled to receive cars the following day. The resolution adopted was signed. Operators, C. F. Myers, Miners, Ed. Call. Officers elected follow: President, Charles Call; Vice- President, J. J. Eddy ; Secretary-Treasurer, J. S. Wilson. Ex- ecutive board: W. H. Crawford, Foster Hart, John Harvey. It was resolved to submit the question of initiation fee to the state and national conventions, in order that said fee may be made uniform throughout the union. Section 3, Article 5, of the constitution was amended so as to provide that the sub-district meet semi-annually, said meeting to be held the day previous to the convention of the consolidated sub-district, and the place of meeting. New Straitsville. Section 5, Article 5, was amended, requiring the secretary to notify the mine secretaries when their mine is in arrears, one month prior to the meeting of the sub-district. The auditing committee then made the following report : Fourth National Convention 247 Balance on hand January 9, 1893, $8.70; total receipts to date, $103.77; total $112.47; total disbursements, $14.46; bal- ance on hand, $98.01. The committee found that the books had been properly kept, and after the report was adopted, and the constitution ordered printed, the convention adjourned, sine die. Chas. Call, President, J. S. Wilson, Secy.-Treas. FOURTH NATIONAL ANNUAL CONVENTION OF UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. Columbus, Ohio, April 11, 1893. The convention was called to order at 10 a. m.. President John McBride in the chair. William M. Anderson and W. C. Pearce were appointed assistant secretaries. List of Committees. Rules and Order of Business — M. McQuade, Pennsylvania ; Jerry Meade, West Virginia; B. Anderson, Kentucky; James Parsons, Indiana; F. M. Tollett, Ohio. Resolutions — P. H. Penna, Indiana; Alex. Johnson, Ohio; W. J, Guyman, Illinois; W. S. Scott, Iowa; J. W. Harrison, Pennsylvania. Constitution — John Nugent, Ohio; W. D. Vanhorn, In- diana; Thomas Farry, West Virginia; W. C. Webb, Ken- tucky; Samuel Chambers, Colorado. Grievances — William Howells, Colorado; T. A. Bradley, Pennsylvania; A. A. Adams, Ohio; M. Comiesky, Indiana; J. A. Crawford, Illinois. Distribution — James White, Pennsylvania; M. Gulliver, Ohio; M. Jackson, Ohio; J. H. Kennedy, Indiana; J. B. Brace, Kentucky. William Howells, W. C. Webb and W. J. Guyman, commit- tee on credentials, made their report. As some corrections were necessary, convention adjourned until 1:30 p. m., to allow committee time to report. AFTERNOON SESSION. The meeting was called to order. President McBride in the chair. 248 United Mine Workers of America List of Delegates. Pennsylvania — J. D. Davis, J. W. Harrison, T. A. Brad- ley, Edward Sweeney, Geo. Johnson, Jas. White, E. R. Davis, John Costello, P. McBryde, W. A. Rump, C. P. Byrne, M. Mc- Quade, A. L. Davis. Ohio — T. McGough, T. L. Lewis, A. A. Adams, M. Ratch- ford, C. Miller, M. Jackson, H. L. Rock, J. Swinder, J. 0. Dol- man, N. A. Tenley, E. Call, T. Taylor, J. O’Donnell, Levi Shan- non, J. Gray, J. Thomas, Val Tison, Charles Call, Ransom Baxter, Ed Elswick, J. Fisher, H. Mendenhall, Enoch Riley, Thos. Comber, E. N. Smith, Jas. McKee, John Fahy, Thos. Miller, Alex Johnson, S. Glasgow, J. McLaughlan, I. E. Wil- liams, P. P. Andrews, W. Brady, C. P. Ray, J. Costlett, Ed Thomas, H. Deems, F. M. Toilet, T. F. Moriarity, W. W. Ed- wards, W. Applegarth, J. F. Banks, John Terrel, J. L. Holland, M. Lyons, H. J. Bond, W. Richards, E. Jones, Adam McLean, L. M. Kenzie, F. Welsh, W. Attwood, R. F. Warren, C. W. Walker, Thos. Cole, Aug. Brencamp, John Har- nick, F. Weymueller, F. J. Mink, Foster Hart, Sam Martin, Geo. Wend, S. H. Hannah, Isaac Jones, W. Brown, A. F. Spittler, A. Henry, Thos. Hardy, John Nugent, M. Grogan, Wm. Jenkins, W. C. Pearce, A. Winning, R. L. Davis, Jos. Green, Eli Thorp, C. A. Robbins, John P. Jones, D. Robertson, A. Ruff, D. S. Roy, W. F. Fowler, PI. Lewis, W. Gregory, W. Dumeree, F. Kessner, Neil Elliot, J. L. Henley, J. Haynes, Jas. Collins, M. Gulliver, T. McGuire, Q. Levering, S. A. Wangler, J. C. Duncan, W. H. Weckline, A. Mahan, H. Shires, S. Shry, Lewis Harmon, F. Collard. Indiana — M. Comesky, L. Cushman, J. McGuire, W. D. Vanhorn, D. Llewellen, D. Adams, R. Monkhouse, E. Merrel, J. H. Kennedy, J. E. Buck, J. Pearsons, J. Harrison. Illinois — J. A. Crawford, W. J. Guyman. Iowa — W. S. Scott, Kansas and Missouri — P. H. Penna. Colorado — S. Chambers, Wm. Howells. West Virginia — Jerry Meade, Wm. Sorg, Basil Scott, Thos. Farry, W. L. Anderson. Tennessee and Kentucky — W. C. Webb, Burl Anderson, J. B. Brace, Pomeroy — George Smith. We have credentials of H. B. Jones, Local Assembly 355, Brashears, Ohio, asking for a voice and not a vote in conven- tion. We recommend that he has a voice but not a vote, as said Local Assembly 355 has a delegate present. Report of committee on credentials adopted. Fourth National Convention 249 The committee on rules and order of business reported that the hour to convene each day should be 8 a. m., recess at 12 noon until 1 :30 p. m., and adjourn at 5 o’clock p. m. That Cushing’s Manual of procedure should govern the proceed- ings ; that committees appointed on officers’ reports, auditing, grievances, resolutions and constitution, make their reports in the order named, which was adopted. President John McBride not being ready to make his report, Patrick McBryde, secretary, reported as follows : SECRETARY-TREASURER M’BRYDE’S REPORT. The drafting of annual reports is always attended with feelings of pleasure or the reverse. Last year my report con- tained nothing of which a labor organization could feel elated. Disastrous strikes, reduced prestige, and a small treasury was all the legacy we could lay claim to. The reverses of the year did not dismay the delegates, knowing well a labor organization dare not move backward. Fully alive to the interest of the men they represented, they refused to engage in wage conflicts which would bring defeat and disaster upon the miners, but rather sought to regain what they had lost, by a year of missionary work in those states with which they were more closely identifled, and holding out a welcoming hand to every miner in this broad land of ours. To strengthen our organization and enable the miners to adopt a protective and aggressive policy, the na- tional officials have bent their every energy during the past year. While the results are not in accord with the amount of work performed, they are of too substantial a character to be ignored. The greatest obstacles to progress were found in these places that required the organization most, and where we were most solicitous that it should be established, namely: Western Pennsylvania, Illinois, West Virginia and the block coal field in Indiana. It is noteworthy that the miners of Illi- nois, Indiana and Western Pennsylvania suffered through the loss of strikes during the year 1891, and it would seem from their present apathy as if they had not sufficiently recovered from the defeat for reaction to set in, and for organization to assume its old-time proportions in those fields. During the early part of the year much progress was made in West Virginia, and it looked as if that state was destined to become an important factor in our counsels. The coal operators wit- nessed the success of our efforts with alarm. By a well-defined plan of coercion and petty tyranny they succeeded in driving 250 United Mine Workers of America the miners of the Fairmont district into a strike, for which they, the miners, were ill prepared. President McBride, recog- nizing the hopelessness of the struggle, and sought to avert it, but in vain. The result was a loss of over 1,000 members, comprising the several branches of that region, which had cost the time and money of the organization to build up. This was the greatest loss we sustained during the present year, and as this district is rapidly becoming an important factor in the coal markets of the country, and a powerful competitor of Ohio and Pennsylvania, we can not, if we would protect the members of our organization, allow it to be run by non- unionists. Our Membership. It is difficult to give at any time the exact number of mem- bers in our organization, the uncertainty of work in the coal mines rendering it impossible for men to pay their dues reg- ularly. Local strikes and opposition from employers will often cause a local to almost disappear, yet in a few months the organization assumes greater proportions than before. It would be very unfair to class those men as being outside the pale of organization. Last year when we met in convention the actual paying members were less than at any period since the formation of the United Mine Workers, only 13,955 mem- bers having paid tax for January, 1892, and 20,000 would cover all that could in any way claim membership in the organization. During the first year of our organization, that is from February, 1890, to January 31, 1891, our actual pay- ing membership was 23,573, from that date until May 1, the time set apart to inaugurate the eight-hour day, our member- ship increased to 26,665. It is well known that many miners who had heretofore taken very little interest in organization were attracted by that part of our constitution which guar- anteed $3.50 per week to men on strike. This is made ap- parent by a comparison of the membership from May 1, 1891, to January 31, 1892, when we had only an average of 14,595, reaching, as I have said, our lowest membership in the month previous to our last convention. Our membership since that date has gradually increased until last month our paid up membership reached 24,023 members, which is 450 members more than our average for the first year, and 11,068 more than paid on the month previous to our convention last year. During the year three new districts have been formed: Southwestern Kentucky, Kansas and Colorado ; 127 local unions and assemblies organized that remained in the union. Locals were also formed at Braidwood, Braceville, Coal City. Spring Valley, Ladd, Streator, Farmington and other im- Fourth National Convention 251 portant points in Illinois, which for some reason lingered but a few days and died. The foregoing taken from the books of the organization speaks of the efforts put forth by those intrusted to do the field work of the union. Complaints have been made that men who were intrusted with the funds of the local absconded, and others, that secre- taries paid the national for less members than were on the books of the local. I recommend that locals insist on the pro- duction of the receipts from the national and district offices once a month, and that said receipts be compared with the quarterly balance sheet printed by the national secretary. In this manner a complete check will be kept on local and na- tional secretaries which will tend to promote more confidence than exists at the present time. The following is an abstract statement of the income and expenditures. In it is included the Journal account. I will supply a supplementary report on the income and expendi- ture of the Journal, when our official organ comes up for dis- cussion : Income. Cash on hand February 1, 1892 $ 6,595.40 Tax 27,141.50 Supplies 1,040.71 Newspaper 4,623.07 Aid 2,026.63 American Federation of Labor for Coal Creek 500.00 841,927.31 Expenditures. Salary and expenses $22,112.65 Aid 3,149.71 Supplies 999.70 Office expense 939.43 Postage, expressage, etc 895.89 Paper 1,465.37 Commission 438.03 Folding and press work 450.74 Type 222.25 American Federation of Labor tax 417.89 Knights of Labor, special tax 397.18 Story, “Loved by a Lord” 10.25 Defense of M. F. Moran 60.00 —$31,559.09 Cash on hand April 1, 1893 $10,368.22 252 United Mine Workers of America The Clinton National Bank, Columbus, Ohio, April 7, 1893. Patrick McBryde, United Mine Workers of America, Colum- bus, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 7th inst. received. In reply I have to advise you that at the close of business the 31st of March, 1893, the books of this bank showed balances standing to the credit of Patrick McBryde and United Mine Workers of America, in all, $10,368.22. Very truly yours, F. W. Prentiss, Cashier. Respectfully submitted, P. McBryde, Secretary-Treasurer. On motion the report was adopted. After a brief recess the convention was called to order again and the president made his report. PRESIDENT M’BRIDE’S ADDRESS. Representatives of the Mine Workers of America: Gentlemen — You have assembled in this, your fourth an- nual convention, to review the encouraging and discouraging features of the work of our organization during the past year, and to map out a policy for future efforts to ameliorate the conditions which oppress yourselves and your constituents while toiling in the mines for the means to allow yourselves and your families to live in decency if not in comfort. The magnitude of the coal industry, and the vast army of mine workers makes it very difficult for the small organized force we possess to achieve the success our cause merits. Yet, a limited success has been gained in face of obstacles en- countered in our work, both from the mistakes made by the unorganized members of our craft and the opposition officered by mine operators, who have failed to appreciate the spirit of our movement and look upon it as one intended to injure them rather than one calculated, as it is, to lift the coal trade to a higher plane and free it from those evil influences which prevent operators from making fair profits upon legitimately invested capital and rob mine workers of those enjoyments which wages, commensurate with their labor, should afford. The future appears bright and full of promise, and if the mine workers of the country will be true to themselves, and give to their organization that support that their interests de- mand or require, there is nothing to prevent a speedy better- ment of conditions and wages. As your executive, I here call your attention to such mat- ters as, in my judgment, demand attention and action in this President McBride’s Address 253 convention and leave it to your deliberate judgment to make such disposition of them as you deem best for the interest of our craft. Annual Contracts. Immediately after adjournment of the National convention last year I entered into correspondence with operators of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and western Pennsylvania, relative to the holding of joint conventions for the purpose of agreeing upon rates to be paid for mining during the year. I did not succeed in getting a joint meeting of miners and operators of the competitive fields, but separate conventions were held and agreements made in Pittsburg, Pa. ; Ohio and Indiana dis- tricts and a partial settlement made in Jellico, Tenn., and Pittsburg, Ky., fields. In Ohio there was but little trouble in effecting a settlement, but in the Pittsburg, Pa., and the In- diana bituminous field the indifference of the miners and the lack of organization together, came very near bringing on a reduction, and I very much fear that unless more interest is manifested and greater effort made on the part of Pittsburg and Illinois district miners to perfect organization it will be impossible to maintain a rate for mining in keeping with market conditions. Joint conferences with employers can only succeed in establishing and maintaining equitable conditions and proper prices when they have behind them a thorough and intelligent organized force, because only under such con- ditions can we guarantee the fulfillment of obligations entered into. I trust this convention will do nothing to discourage this peaceable method of adjusting disputes between mine operators and operatives and that our members will keep in mind the fact that when contracts are once made their honor is pledged to the carrying out of their stipulations ; when an organization reaches the point where honor is lost sight of the organization should cease to have an existence. Strikes. The past year was a notable one for the absence of great strikes, and yet the strikes in the Fairmont, W. Va., and Coal Creek, Tenn., fields can not be passed by without com- ment. In the Fairmont field the miners very foolishly made demands upon operators that were not justified by market prices on relative mining rates in the other sections of the competitive field, and although these demands were practically withdrawn the ire of the operators had been aroused, and they went to the other extreme of declaring the organization an enemy and commenced a relentless warfare upon the or- ganization by discharging local leaders in such numbers that the miners, against their will, were forced to declare a strike 254 United Mine Workers op America at a time when they were not prepared to continue it to a successful termination. The miners, although lacking dis- cipline and experience, made a good fight, but were defeated and the organization suffered a severe set-back, and some time must elapse ere the miners can again unite their forces proper- ly, or demonstrate to their employers that the organization is intended to wage war upon conditions that hamper the coal trade and injure employers and employes alike, rather than to gratify a spirit of revenge by seeking to punish operators of mines for real or imaginary wrongs inflicted upon mine workers in the past. The strike in Tennessee was inaugurated for the abolition of the convict lease system by which convicts are sold to coal operators, and put to work in the mines in direct competi- tion with free labor. I do not wonder that the free mine workers revolted against this system, nor was I surprised that extreme measures were resorted to for the purpose of winning. Convict labor in all states is a curse to free labor, but in nearly all states the labor of convicts is so distributed that its evil effects fall alike upon all trades, while in Tennes- see and Alabama convicts are nearly all employed in mining coal, and the number of convicts is so large that it is almost impossible for free miners to maintain rights, privileges or prices to any degree above those accorded to convict miners, and by reason of this the free miners in those two states feel humiliated and degraded because they recognize that they are suffering from conditions, the baneful effects of which, instead of being confined to the two states named, are slowly but surely, inflicting injury upon miners in other fields where convicts are not employed. The bitterness of this struggle for fair treatment on the part of the free miners of Tennessee led to a conflict between them and the state military, and in consequence of this a number of miners were arrested and are being prosecuted for a violation of a law, the provisions of which are so manifestly unjust to the free miners that, in my judgment, they were justified in doing what they did. The American Federation of Labor, at its last session, donated $500 to help defend the miners arrested and, who are about to be tried for alleged violation of an infamous law; and, although but few of the miners engaged in that strike were or are members of our organization, I recommend and earnestly urge upon this convention that a good sum of money be appropriated from our treasury to defend the men who have been arrested and thus give encouragement to still further efforts on the part of the miners of Tennessee and Alabama until a death blow has been struck at the damnable system of employing convicts in mines. President McBride’s Address 255 Advanced Mining Bate. Your national executive board has advised that you de- mand an advance in the price paid for mining. Before mak- ing such a demand, however, you should consider two import- ant points bearing upon this question; first, how much of an advance is due to you by reason of improved market prices, and, second, how much are you able to obtain should your demand be refused and an organized co-operative effort be required on your part to enforce the demand made. Measured by increased production' and sale of coal the past year has been a prosperous one for the coal trade and the increased price at which coal was sold in all parts of the country without a corresponding increase in mining rates, indicates that the year was a profitable one to mine operators. The production of coal in 1892 compared with that of 1891, in the United States and territories, shows an increase of 3.4 per cent. Sixteen states show the following per cent of increase in their production : Alabama, 16.6 ; Arkansas, 12.5 ; Colorado, 5; Georgia, 11.1; Illinois, 7.7 ; Indiana, 4.8; Kansas, 2; Kentucky, 4.2; Michigan, 11; Missouri, 1.5; Montana, 28; Ohio, 9.7 ; Pennsylvania bituminous, 4.1, anthracite, 3.5 ; Texas, 12.5; Virginia, 14.3; West Virginia, 4.6. Seven states show a per cent of decrease as follows : Iowa, 6.2 ; Maryland, 10.9 ; Oregon, 33 ; Tennessee, 9 ; Utah, 5.1 ; Washington, 33 ; Wyoming, 11.1 ; New Mexico, Dakota, California and the In- dian territory has the same tonnage in both years. The Chi- cago market, which is generally used as a criterion to measure the prosperity of the lake and northwestern trade, shows a per cent of increase and decrease in tonnage as follows from the mining fields comprising the competitive district : Pittsburg, increase 13.5; Hocking, Ohio Central and Shawnee, 26; Jack- son county, increase 33; Ohio miscellaneous, increase nearly 58; West Virginia and Kentucky, increase 22.2; northern Illi- nois, increase 8.8 ; southern Illinois, decrease 10.5 ; central Illi- nois, increase 47.8 ; eastern Illinois, decrease 6 ; Indiana block, increase 22.1 ; Indiana miscellaneous, increase 12.9. In the open markets of the country the price of coal ad- vanced all the way from 25 cents to $1 per ton, but you must bear in mind that but a small per cent of coal sales are made upon open market prices. The great bulk of coal is placed at contract prices, and the contracts, which are made annually, are usually made to the lowest bidder among a large number of competitors. Upon coal, sold under annual contracts made in the early part of the year 1892, the operators of mines realized no benefit from the increased price quoted in open market, hence the profits realized upon the coal sold at big prices in the open markets when distributed upon the entire 256 United Mine Workers of America tonnage reduces the profit of operators to a much smaller margin than the casual observer would be willing to concede. I call your attention to this fact so that you may be conserva- tive and reasonable in your demand for higher wages — to which you are entitled, and which the prosperity of the past year and the promising outlook for the present year indicate ought to be granted you without a rupture between you and your employers. The Official Organ. The United Mine Workers’ Journal is your property, was established by your votes and is printed at your expense, hence you are interested in its success or failure. It should also be borne in mind that the United Mine Workers’ Journal was established before the present officers were elected to the positions they fill, and for this, if no other reason, the charge made from several quarters during the past year that the United Mine Workers’ Joiirnal was nothing more nor less than the mouthpiece of the officers was as unjust as it is untrue. The paper belongs to you and you should either provide for an extension of its usefulness or abolish it altogether. Car Fare of Delegates. In a circular issued to the locals by the national executive board, they recommend the payment of car fare to delegates attending the national convention. Our annual meetings have been held in this city, where our headquarters are established, and where we have facilities for examination of books and documents, and the printing of the minutes of our sessions, which we could not secure elsewhere. While we believe we should hold our meetings in this city we ought to make such arrangements as will enable members at a distance to be fairly represented in our conventions, and this can only be done by the payment of car fare for delegates and thus equal- ize the cost per capita to delegates from all sections of the country. Reports from Locals. The general assembly of the Knights of Labor, at its last session, so changed the constitution as to provide for the issuing of local pass words every three months and to make sure of each local assembly being furnished with the pass word, the law on quarterly reports to the general assembly and National Trades Assembly must be complied with. If this be done it will prevent much of the confusion occasioned during the past year, by local secretaries neglecting to make this report, and in consequence of this neglect members of the Knights of Labor whose per capita tax was paid through mine President McBride’s Address 257 organizations were not properly credited. Where members of local unions and local assemblies join in sending tax to the national office the secretary of the mine organization should • properly credit and report the number of each branch for which payment is made. If this be done it will prove more satisfactory than is the present slip-shod method. Obstacles Met. It is with deep concern, and the most profound regret, that I have noticed during the past year the danger which ; threatens our organization from the growing tendency to divide mine workers on the question of nationality and re- ligion, and I feel that it is time for those who are interested in the miners’ welfare to speak in denunciation of the same in unmistakable terms. In districts, east and west, the internecine strife occasioned by religion and nationality has not only prevented your officers from effecting local organizations, but in many instances has disrupted those already established. Coal operators and their agents, opposed to organization among their employes, have not been slow to avail themselves of the opportunity thus afforded them to create animosities between employes and to impose upon them oppressive conditions, which, under other circumstances, would not be tolerated. The danger from this source is more pronounced in Illinois and Pennsylvania than in other states, but even Ohio, with its more perfect organ- ization, is not free from its withering blast. Men who originate and circulate stories that stir up national prejudices and create religious fanaticism presume upon the mine workers’ ignorance, and their appeal to passion and prejudice is prompted by impure motives and with a desire to injure rather than help labor. The fact that such sentiments are at all prevalent is a matter of regret, and I sincerely advise our miners to treat such sentiments, and the men who promulgate them, with the contempt they so justly merit. You cannot afford to harbor or countenance such a spirit of bigotry and intolerance, and if you do, you alone must suffer its baleful consequences. The president’s report continues at great length on state- ments published through the daily press that Grand Master Workman, T. V. Powderly, had in his annual address to the general assembly, charged the officials of the United Mine Workers with a violation of their obligations to the order of Knights of Labor and recommended that the alliance between the two organizations be dissolved. 258 United Mine Workers of America On this issue the report covers pages of correspondence between President or Master Workman John McBride and General Master Workman T. V. Powderly of the Knights of Labor in which attributes of the endearing kind were con- spicuously absent for a period commencing January 11, 1893, and ending with a message dated April 7, 1893. The following closing sentiments expressed however in the president’s address are fitting reminders of a spirit full of love for the cause he so consistently advocated. The final settlement of this question is a satisfactory one to the National Trades Assembly and the United Mine Workers and I am pleased that it has had this ending and trust now that a full and complete vindication has been accorded us, by the grand and manly admission of General Master Workman Powderly and the fair investigation conducted by Brother Devlin, the work of organization, which has been retarded and delayed, will be pushed with renewed vigor and that our members will conduct themselves in the future as in the past, with a spirit of fairness toward each other and bear in mind the fact that whether members of a local assembly or a local union they are all United Mine Workers, with one common interest to conserve and one common cause to pro- mote. I hope your deliberations will be conducted in harmony and that your labors will reflect credit upon yourselves and bring increased benefits to your constituents. John McBride. On motion, the president’s report was made a part of the proceedings. REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE. We, the undersigned, have audited the secretary-treas- urer’s accounts of the United Mine Workers of America for the year past, and find them correct. Income .941,927.31 Expenditure 31. .559. 09 Balance on hand April 1, 1893 $10,368.22 W. C. Webb, J. A. Crawford, Thomas Parry, W. S. Scott, The report was adopted. Auditors. Fourth National Convention 259 A series of resolutions were then read and the convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY MORNING. Convention was called to order by President McBride. After being read and corrections made, the minutes of the previous day’s session were approved. It was moved that the election of officers be deferred until the last order of business. After discussing various resolutions introduced, the fol- lowing substitute by P. H. Penna and other resolutions were adopted : Whereas, The condition of the coal trade is such as to war- rant an advance on mining rates; therefore be it Resolved, That we demand an increase on present prices for mining screened coal of 5 cents per ton and the equivalent of 5 cents per ton on unscreened coal where that method obtains, and that where practicable all agreements be made on unscreened coal. On roll call the Penna substitute was adopted by a vote of 161 in its favor and 48 against it. Thirty-six delegates declined to vote. The convention being in executive session it was resolved to remain in executive session in the afternoon to consider the grievance of Brother Ratchford, referred from the state to the national convention. After a thorough discussion on the future publication of the Journal the committee on resolutions reported the follow- ing substitute which was agreed to : That we concur in the recommendation of the executive board, with reference to the future of the United Mine Workers’ Journal, known as the Penna resolution, and refer the same to the incoming executive board to work out the details; provided, that said board must make provision that only one paper be sent to any one family. The following are the Penna resolutions referred to pub- lished in the Journal February 8, 1893, together with an amendment by Patrick McBryde, published February 23, 1893 : (1) Resolved. That the National Executive Board, as directors of the United Mine Workers’ Journal, be and are 260 United Mine Workers of America hereby instructed to supply each member of the United Mine Workers of America with a copy of the United Mine Workers’ Jourruil each week. (2) Resolved, That the per capita tax to the national organization be increased 5 cents per month per member, making 15 cents instead of 10 cents as at present, to enable said national executive board to comply with resolution No. 1. (3) Resolved, That said executive board be further instructed to procure the services of one Italian interpreter and typesetter, also one who can interpret and set up in type the language of that Slav group which is found to be most used by the miners, especially in the East, so that the reading matter on first page of the United Mine Workers’ Journal in the English language may be repeated on pages 2 and 3 in the languages above named. I, therefore, offer an amendment to the resolution of Brother Penna : Resolved, That the United Mine Workers’ Journal be re- duced in size and that each member of the organization be supplied with a copy of the same, and that articles be printed in French, German, Italian and Slavonic when there is a demand for the same from members composing these national- ities sufficiently numerous to warrant the expense of trans- lating and printing. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order. President John IMcBride in the chair. After some preliminary work, Vice-President Penna was called to preside and announced that the convention was in executive session and that the Ratchford grievance was the special order of business. By motion it was agreed that the grievance between Michael Ratchford and President McBride should come before the convention for adjustment. The question was freely discussed by many delegates present after which the convention adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING, APRIL 14. Convention called to order at 8 a. m., Vice-President Penna in the chair. Fourth National Convention 261 A roll call of the delegates present was made and the fol- lowing telegram was read to the convention ; Mr. John McBride, President United Mine Workers of Amer- ica, Columbus, Ohio: Though absent, my best wishes attend your deliberations, and may the results solidify the miners’ ranks in every state of the Union. Chris Evans. Ex-President John B. Rae applied for admission, was ad- mitted, and addressed the convention in words that were well received and applauded by the delegates present. In the discussion that followed it was decided that those directly interested in the Ratchford-McBride case retire. After being nominated for chairman, James O’Donnell declined to act and P. H. Penna was elected as chairman of the convention. In reply to delegate Miller the chair ruled that M. Ratch- ford was plaintiff and President McBride the defendant in the case, and that the question is : Has President McBride done Brother Ratchford injustice in his interview in Cincinnati Enquirer of November 3, 1892? Moved, The convention proceed to a secret ballot as to whether Brother Ratchford’s charges will be sustained or not. Moved, That the question of grievance between Ratchford and McBride be tabled. Moved, by C. Call, Inasmuch as we consider that neither is guilty of any serious charge, we consider it not worthy of our consideration ; therefore, I move to table the whole matter. Adopted by a vote of 155 to 79. Adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President McBride, who in- formed the convention that the business before it was the Penna resolutions, and that R. F. Warren had the floor. Dur- ing the discussion Brother Jones read the following telegram : 262 United Mine Workers of America Shawnee, Ohio. Ebenezer Jones, Care of W. T. Lewis, State House: Local 354 is solid against the Penna resolution. You are all requested to vote against it. J. W. Vaughan, Vice-President. Substitute, moved, by C. Call, That the price of the Journal be $1 per year. Amendment to substitute— Resolved, That the price of the Journal be $1 per year, and the per capita tax as before, and National Executive Board make a reduction in the price for bundles of 10 or more to secretaries of local assemblies or local unions as may send for them for the purpose of in- structing unorganized men and for the purpose of education. (Lost.) The substitute of Brother Call was adopted. Grievance committee informed the convention that they had but one grievance before them, which they referred to the incoming executive board. Report concurred in. The committee on constitution reported after duly con- sidering all documents. We recommend the constitution the same as at present with the following addition : Article VI. Section 4. That no charges shall be considered by any convention of the United Mine Workers unless such charges be preferred in writing to the executive board, who shall hear and determine, and report to the convention their finding. John Nugent, Samuel Chambers, W. C. Webb, Thomas Farry, W. D. Vanhorn. Moved that the report of the committee be concurred in. Adopted. The chair announced the next business to be the election of officers. Moved, by Sherman Glasgow, that we adjourn until to- morrow. Adopted. Officers Elected for 1893 263 FRIDAY MORNING. The convention was called to order, President John Mc- Bride in the chair. Moved, The minutes of yesterday’s session be dispensed with. Carried. Moved, The convention proceed with the election of officers. Adopted. Moved, The record of all votes be recorded in the United Mine Workers Journal. Adopted. Officers elected follow : For President or Master Workman — John McBride. For Vice-President or Worthy Foreman — P. H. Penna was unanimously elected. For Secretary-Treasurer — P. McBryde was declared elected. After voting for the executive board the convention ad- journed until 1:30 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order at 1 :30 p. m., Vice-President Penna in the chair. The secretary announced the vote for members of the executive board. The chair decided that as W. C. Webb, William Howells and J. A. Crawford had received a majority of all votes cast, they were duly elected as members of the executive board. On the second ballot Thomas Farry, Cameron Miller, and John Fahy, having received a majority of all votes cast, were declared elected members of the national executive board. James White moved the election be made unanimous, which was adopted. The chair said the next business was the election of dele- gates to the American Federation of Labor. John McBride, P. H. Penna, Charles Call, C. Miller, were elected delegates, and P. McBryde, John Nugent, J. A. Crawford, and W. C. Pearce, alternates. Report of the committee on resolutions: Whereas, The Connellsville coke region is disorganized, owing to failure of strike two years ago; and. Whereas, the JOHN McBRIDE, SECOND PRESIDENT, 1892, 1893, 1894. PATRICK McBRYDE, SECOND SECRETARY, 1891 , 1892 , 1893 , 1894 , 1895 . 266 United Mine Workers of America miners and coke workers of said region are anxious to be organized again; therefore, be it Resolved, That the national convention instruct the in- coming executive board to do all in their power to push organ- ization there by sending organizers into that field. Report concurred in. Resolved, That the ton of two thousand pounds be the only ton recognized by the United Mine Workers of America. Concurred in. Whereas, The free miners of Tennessee suffered under the convict lease system until patience ceased to be a virtue, and they resorted to the use of arms to free themselves of the blighting scourge ; and Whereas, Several of our fellowmen are now in litigation for the part they have been accused of taking in the struggle for freedom ; and Whereas, Litigation is always attended with expenditure of money — a commodity with which miners are not over- burdened; therefore, be it Resolved, That we unreservedly indorse the Tennessee miners’ attitude and conduct in this particular, and recom- mend that this convention vote them assistance to the amount of $500. Report concurred in. Whereas, The southern coal field in Indiana is only par- tially organized and extraordinary efforts are needed there to solidify our ranks, therefore. Resolved, That this convention instruct the incoming ex- ecutive board to render the Indiana state officials assistance in the incoming year to unify the miners of the section named. Report concurred in. Whereas, the miners of Pennsylvania, through their repre- sentatives, have introduced a bill in the legislature asking for the establishment of two mining schools; therefore, be it Resolved, That we heartily indorse said bill and urge the miners of other states to demand the same from their several legislative bodies. Concurred in. Fourth National Convention 267 Whereas, The State of West Virginia or district 17, is in a deplorable condition as far as organization is concerned, and those receiving scale rates threatened with a reduction; therefore, be it Resolved, That there be at least three organizers sent to work immediately in that district and to remain there as long as thought practicable by the national executive board. Concurred in. Resolved, That we condemn the system of weighing our coal on the flat or railroad cars, and that we demand the weighing of our coal on scales having their bearings above ground. Adopted. Resolved, That we urgently demand the legislature of the different coal producing states to pass a rigid law forcing, under severe penalty, operators of shaft mines to provide the latest improved safety catches on all carriages used for lower- ing or hoisting the persons working in or around the mines, and that all operators be held strictly responsible for all ac- cidents that occur in and around the mines. Concurred in. Resolved, That the incoming executive board be instructed to make some provision whereby the object of our organiza- tion can be intelligently laid before the foreign-speaking ele- ment. Concurred in. The time for adjournment having arrived the chair an- nounced that there would be an evening session held tonight. Adjourned. NIGHT SESSION. The night session was called to order by President Mc- Bride. Committee on constitution reported that the car fare of delegates to and from the National Convention be referred to the executive board with instructions to perfect a plan that will secure equality to all its members, which was agreed to. Whereas, We believe that the power and influence of the Knights of Labor and American Federation of Labor should be brought to bear on the Monongah Coal company to compel said company to recognize union labor ; 268 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That this convention request the National Ex- ecutive Board of the Knights of Labor and the executive council of the American Federation of Labor to issue an appeal to all organized laboring men to refuse to handle any of the products of the Monongah Coal company. Adopted. The committee on resolutions having completed their re- port, on motion the convention adjourned sine die. CHAPTER XIII. STATE CONVENTION DISTRICT 12. Springfield, 111. — The fourth annual convention of district 12, United Mine Workers of America, met in Giblin’s hall, Springfield, Illinois, April 25, 1893, at 10 a. m., President J. A. Crawford in the chair. Committee on credentials — Alfred Wilson, St. David; Rob- inson Cook, Sangamon mine, Riverton; and William Liddell, Oglesby, reported the following delegates entitled to seats : Tony Saurs, New North Co-operative mine, Springfield; George Armstrong, Riverton; Harry Proutt, Cable; Job Hill, Barclay; John Scattigood, Dawson; Robert Cunion, Athens; Alfred Wilson, St. David and Bryant; Robinson Cook, River- ton, Sangamon mine; William Liddell, Oglesby; Michael Lor- dan, Centralia; Thomas Smith, Riverton; William Wilkinson, Riverton, Cleas Lake mine. Committee on resolutions — John Scattigood, Dawson; Al- fred Wilson, St. David, and Tony Saurs. Auditors — Robert Cunion and William Liddell. PRESIDENT CRAWFORD’S ADDRESS. To the Officers and Miners of District 12, United Mine Workers of America: Gentlemen — At the close of my official term as your presi- dent, it becomes my duty, in following the line laid down by my predecessors, to write an annual address. I approach this task with feelings of pleasure on the one hand, with sadness on the other. I am pleased to be able to say to this convention, that throughout the trying times of the past year, the national District 12 Convention, April, 1893. 269 organization has remained true to its trust, in that out of the last year it has uncomplainingly borne the salary and expenses of your president for over eight months’ steady work in the field in the interest of the miners of this state. The work re- sulted in organizations in Braidwood, Braceville, Gardner, Clark City, Spring Valley, Ladd, Coal City, Farmington, Dum- fermline, Edwards, Middle Grove, Westly City, etc., which like Jonah’s gourd, withered and died in early childhood. Cuba, Bryant, St. David, Riverton, Barclay, North Shaft, Oglesby and others organized by me are still standing true to the interest of the organization. In addition to the labors of your president the national has at various times sent into our state board members J. P. Jones of Ohio, James White of Pennsylvania, Michael Ratchford of Ohio, and Organizer Tom Davis, who have prosecuted can- vasses in various parts of the state ; which, together with the labors of Secretary-Treasurer Guyman, have succeeded in bringing nearly 3,000 men into the organization. But strange as it may seem and sad as it is, only about 500 men out of this 3,000 have remained true to their own interest, and the interest of their fellow craftsmen. After our last convention your president, assisted by the Honorable William Mooney, of Braidwood, went before the committee on resolutions in the State Democratic Convention, and suc- ceeded in prevailing on that political body to engraft into their platform several planks tending to the benefit of miners and wage workers. With Hon. P. H. Donnelly, we went into the State Republican Convention for the same purpose, and suc- ceeded in securing the adoption of the same planks. In view, therefore, of these facts, our friends in the present house and senate have introduced a number of bills beneficial to our craft, for which they and we have been working since the convening of the present general assembly, and we are pleased to be able to say to you, that we believe many of those bills will be enacted into law before the adjournment of the present session. I also desire to call your attention to the able and dis- interested work done by the Hon. William Mooney of Braid- wood in the Illinois supreme court in the interest of the truck law, gross weight bill and weekly pay law, which should en- dear him to the heart of every coal miner in Illinois. We should always remember our friends, and Mooney is a friend who should not be forgotten. Your president deplores the fact that there is at several mining points in this state a local war between miners, based and waged upon religious and national lines, which in tend- ency and thought are wholly un-American, and viciously dele- 270 United Mine Workers of America terious to all the best interests of our craft, and wholly in the interest of operators and managers, who use such miser- ably unfair means to divide the ranks of the miners, that they may the more readily and easily enslave all parties to the internecine contest. The religious and race war is a de- bilitated, fossilized remnant of the 50’s, which was properly buried by the issues of the Civil War and whose funeral was preached by the roaring guns from the Potomac to the far west ; whose petrified body has been resurrected by the cranks of today and made to do duty as an advance guard of corpora- tions and capitalists in their onslaughts on the toilers. And we only regret that the old revivified body of death and disso- lution is welcomed here and there by the miners as a friend in disguise. Finally, let me call your attention to the late national convention demanding 5 cents per ton advance throughout the competitive field, and say to you that five mem- bers of the National Executive Board are now in our state working preparatory to a convention in Streator on the 27th and 28th, to which the operators of districts 1, 2 and 3 have been invited, which situation requires some consideration at your hands. In laying down the presidency today, I do so, conscious of having done all in my power to do for the benefit and welfare of our craft in general, and I only regret having been unable to do much that ought to have been done, by a lack of sympathy and help, by the greater body of miners in the state. We trust that the incoming year may be one of advance- ment and prosperity for the miners, and earnestly ask that all local cause of dissatisfaction and disagreements be buried, and a general advance be made all along the lines. J. A. Crawford. Secretary-Treasurer W. J. Guyman gave an interesting resume of the work connected with his office, in which he states that the national officers had expended over $15,000 in Illinois during the year trying to build up the organization. He said there were so many of the 33,000 mine workers in the district who wanted something for nothing, and as a result of their apathy brought upon themselves the humilia- tion of a reduction in wages, instead of an advance over the previous year’s rates. The secretary reported receipts for the year of $1,323.69 and expenditures of the same amount. The auditors, Robert Cunion and William Liddell reported an itemized statement District 12 Convention, April, 1893. 271 of receipts and expenses in corroboration of the figures given by the secretary, and both reports were adopted. Officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows : Presi- dent or Master Workman, J. A. Crawford; Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, Alfred Wilson; Secretary-Treasurer, W. J. Guyman. Members of the State Executive Board: First district, Harry Prout, Cable; second district, William Liddell, Oglesby; third district, Robert Cunion, Athens; fourth district, Robin- son Cook, Riverton; fifth district, Michael Lordan, Centralia. The following resolutions were unanimously adopted : Resolved, That this convention concur in the action of the national convention held in Columbus, Ohio, in demanding 5 cents per ton advance above present mining rates. That this convention ask the miners of the Springfield dis- trict to refuse to sign any contracts with the operators before May 1, 1893. That we, the miners of Illinois, in convention assembled, hereby express our indorsement of the action of our state president, J. A. Crawford, in his efforts to secure legislation beneficial to our craft. That we express our sincere thanks to the representatives and senators of the thirty-eighth general assembly who have introduced, labored and voted for house and senate bills tend- ing toward the benefit of all classes. That we respectfully request the members of the thirty- eighth general assembly to enact into law, during their present session, those bills enumerated in the miners’ petitions now in the hands of representatives. That these resolutions be printed in the city papers, and the United Mine Workers’ Journal. Whereas, During the past year our organization has made great progress throughout Illinois ; and Whereas, Our president and secretary have labored to obtain a peaceable solution of all difficulties, by conciliation, compromise, or arbitration; therefore, be it Resolved, That we heartily approve of the action of our state officers ; and endorse their administration ; That we believe strikes and lockouts can be avoided by the proper laws governing compulsory arbitration; and de- clare in favor of the enactment and enforcement of such laws ; That as a thorough organization only can give us the full benefit of our weekly pay law, and other measures enacted for our protection, we declare it the duty of every mine worker to 272 United Mine Workers of America become a member of the United Mine Workers of America. That we request our state officers to call a joint convention of miners and operators of inspection districts 4 and 5, as soon as possible after the adjournment of the joint convention in Streator, Illinois. That as the United Mine Workers’ Journxil is the only official organ of our organization, we earnestly urge the miners of Illinois to make an extra effort to extend its circulation. That a semi-annual convention be held in Springfield on the fourth Tuesday in August, 1893, and that the next annual convention of this body be held in Peoria, 111., beginning at 10 :30 a. m. on the fourth Tuesday in April, 1894. President J. A. Crawford delivered an interesting and entertaining address on “Productive and Distributive Co- Operation” which was heartily applauded by the convention. Brother Michael Lorden addressed the convention on “Or- ganization and Co-Operation.” Brother A. Wilson made an able argument in favor of thorough organization and Brother Cunion made a strong ap- peal to the delegates to use all their influence toward extending the circulation and usefulness of the United Mine Workers’ Jounml. On motion the convention adjourned to meet in Spring- field on August 22, 1893. J. A. Crawford, President and Master Workman. W. J. Guyman, Secretary-Treasurer. OHIO SUB-DISTRICT FORMED AT SHERRODSVILLE, OHIO. Sherrodsville, Ohio., April 26, 1893. — In answer to call issued by D. H. Sullivan the following delegates met at Sher- rodsville, April 26 : W. L. Davies, Sherrodsville ; Lewis Snyder, North Sandusky; Thomas Simester, Somerdale; A. Snellbaker, North Sandusky; John Tyrrell, Osnaburg; Alex. Ford, Dell Roy; Thomas Thomas, Mineral Point. W. L. Davis was chosen chairman and Thomas Simister, secretary. Moved, that we form a sub-district of the various mines in this vicinity. Carried. Resolved, That we are in favor of establishing a uniform price for mining coal in this sub-district, based on a four- Indiana Joint Contract, May, 1893 273 foot seam, namely, 77 cents per ton, and an additional 4 cents for every three inches below four feet. Motion, That all the mines in this vicinity working below scale rates be brought up to scale rates, both for mining and day labor. Carried. Resolved, That we are not in favor of signing any agree- ment with the operators except on the 5 cents advance basis. Mineral Point was chosen as the next place of meeting, and the secretary was ordered to invite Barnhill and Goshen to be represented at the next meeting, also a request that our state president attend the next meeting if possible. W. L. Davis was elected sub-district president, and Allen Snellbaker of North Sandusky, secretary. Meeting adjourned. W. L. Davis, President. Thomas Simester, Secretary. CONTRACT BETWEEN THE INDIANA BITUMINOUS COAL OPERATORS AND MINERS. This agreement, made and entered into by and between the bituminous coal operators of the State of Indiana, party of the first part, and the United Mine Workers of America, party of the second part, Witnesseth — That the following scale of prices shall govern the operation of the mines of said first party for one year from May 1, 1893 : The price for day work in the mine, for practical men, shall be 22 2-9 cents per hour. The price for pick mining shall be 70 cents per ton, and yardage and room-turning as heretofore. Break-throughs between entries shall be paid the same price as entries of the same width, when similarly driven. The price for mining with Harrison or Sargent machines, including cutting, drilling, shooting and loading, together with the usual care of room, shall be as heretofore, 52 1-2 cents per ton, and narrow work to be paid for as at present, ex- cept that the price for room turning and break-throughs shall be subject to investigation and settlement by the committee hereinafter named, provided settlement is not made by em- ployer and his employes. The price for mining with a Legg machine shall be 13 cents per ton for rooms and 15 cents per ton for entries. The price for shooting and loading after Legg machines. 274 United Mine Workers of America including the usual care of rooms, shall be 31i/^ cents per ton in rooms, and 37 cents per ton in entries. The price of mining and all settlements therefor shall be based on the weight of screened coal or its equivalent. Payments for coal mined and labor performed shall be made semi-monthly, not later than the 10th and 25th of each month for the earnings of the preceding half month respec- tively. It is further agreed that the president of the miners’ organization and the president of the operators’ association shall be a committee of two with powers of substitution to investigate and settle all grievances that shall be referred to them not otherwise provided for in this contract. It is further agreed that the party of the first part shall offer no objection to the checkoff for checkweighman and for dues for the party of the second part; provided, that no check-off shall be made against any person until he shall have first given his consent in writing to his employer. This contract is entered into by the parties hereto, with- out reservation and in good faith. In witness whereof, we have hereunto subscribed our names this 10th day of May, A. D. 1893. Bituminous Operators’ Association, by J. Smith Talley, President. Attest: W. E. Eppert, Secretary. United Mine Workers of America, District No. 11, by M. COMESKY, President. Attest: J. H. Kennedy, Secretary. Miners' Scale Committee — M. Comesky, Daniel Llewellyn, Joseph Dunkerly, William Van Horn, John Crabb, John Grif- fith, Harry Hargrave, William Scorer, John Henry. Operators’ Scale Committee — W. Kenner, N. C. Anderson, Joseph Martin, H. T. Neal, A. M. Ogle, J. Smith Talley. DEATH OF MRS. JOHN M’BRIDE. On Thursday morning. May 4, 1893, news was received by the colleagues of President John McBride that Maiy, his faithful wife, had died at a little after midnight at her home in Massillon, Ohio. For the last six or eight months the deceased had been in a precarious state of health, and when the silent messenger at last arrived to summon her to her heavenly abode, her friends were not wholly unprepared for her departure. It is a sad blow to Brother IMcBride, however, for the Special Convention District 11 275 happy period of wedded co-partnership was such as to attract the admiring comment of all who knew him and his gentle and urbane Mary. She was a kind, considerate and discreet mother, and the atmosphere around her home and all the domestic endear- ments which she shaped and nurtured bear abundant testi- mony to the fullness of her realization of the portentous duties incumbent upon the guardian and molder of the character of the young. She left four children to mourn her death. She has been a comforter and counsellor to President McBride in some of his most trying ordeals, and was in hearty sympathy with him in his long career as a leader of his craftsmen. The funeral of the deceased occurred on Saturday, the 6th inst., at Massillon, and a large concourse of people gathered to pay tribute to the remains of the departed and much re- spected wife and mother. Most of President McBride's old time colleagues were present, as well as many of the members of the present national executive board as were able to reach the place of burial. Most of the district mine inspectors of Ohio were present, as well as other well-known people. Much sympathy was exhibited for the bereaved family, and all joined in the belief that the loss of the Christian woman, the devoted wife and the loving mother is one that few communities or few families can sustain without deep feeling and regret. DISTRICT ELEVEN. Terre Haute, Ind., May 7, 1893. Special convention of District 11, United Mine Workers of America, met on Wednesday, May 3, at the Court House build- ing in this city, for the purpose of trying to formulate a scale of prices to govern for the year ending May 1, 1894. The convention was called to order by President Comesky, at 1:30 p. m. and the object of the convention explained. The following were then appointed a committee on credentials: Joseph Dunkerly, Clinton; Winfield Sponsler, Linton, and Lawrence Redmeister, Washington. The committee found the following delegates entitled to seats, and recommende(j 276 United Mine Workers of America they be seated: Joseph Dunkerly, Clinton; Simon Scratcher, Clinton; John H. Crabb and D. Kealy, Fontanet; William Scorer, Rosedale; Winifred Sponsler, Linton; John Henry, Coxville; D. Llewellyn, Clinton; George Purcell, Dugger; Simpson Newport, Linton; Lawrence Redmeister and W. D. Van Horn, Washington; E. F. Livingood, Silverwood; Theo. Himburg, Washington; Harry Hargraves, Coal Bluff; D. C. Adams, Fontanet; James Richards, Clinton; A. J. Hayes, Can- nelberg; Robert Simpson, Dugger; J. T, Jones, Linton, Alex Harris, Burnett Martin, Gales Montgomery and J. W. Martin, Minchall. Members of the board present: T. G. Morgan, John E. Griffiths and National Vice-President P. H. Penna. A scale committee of seven was then elected. Committee : Griffiths, Newport, Llewellyn, Crabb, Morgan, Hargraves, and Van Horn. Brother Morgan resigned from the committee and Brother Dunkerly was elected in his place. An expression of the delegates was called for and it was found they were almost unanimous in favor of adhering to the demands of the national convention, namely, 5 cents above present prices. The hour having arrived to meet the operators, the con- vention adjourned until 7 p. m. Vice-President Penna was invited to accompany the committee. The convention again met at 7 p. m., but owing to the fact that the scale committee was not ready to report, the conven- tion adjourned until Thursday morning. Convention called to order at 8:10 a. m. by President Comesky. Brother Simpson Newiiort was called upon to make the report of the committee. It was simply last year’s prices and conditions without any change. On motion, the report was received. It was then moved and adopted that the whole matter be referred back to the locals. Moved that this convention do now adjourn and that the delegates explain as fully as possible all the conditions sur- rounding the situation and that the locals take action and re- port the result through their representatives in this city next Tennessee Joint Agreement, 1893 277 Monday. Motion carried. An amendment was offered to strike out Monday and insert Wednesday. Amendment lost. All the mines in the bituminous field will be expected to quit work after Saturday until a new contract is made. John H. Kennedy, Secretary. SCALE OF PRICES FOR THE JELLICO, TENN., DISTRICT. Jellico, Tennessee, May 8, 1893. The following is the agreement made at Jellico, between the miners and operators for the current year: For Central Jellico Coal Company, Jellico Coal Mining Company, Main Jellico Mountain Coal Company, East Ten- nessee Coal Company, The Proctor Coal Company, Falls Branch Jellico Coal Company, Wooldridge Jellico Coal Com- pany, and Standard Coal and Coke Company. 1. The price for high coal shall be 75 cents per ton of 2,000 pounds over a screen of 65 superficial feet li/^ inches between the bars. Medium coal 80 cents per ton. Low coal 85 cents per ton. High coal shall measure 3 feet 6 inches and over. Medium coal 3 feet 3 inches and under 3 feet 6 inches. Low coal all under 3 feet 3 inches. It is understood that only coal shall be measured and not impurities. The mining seam and sand band shall not be considered impurities. 2. The standard price for slate entries shall be $2.50 per yard, but when both top and bottom are blasted the price shall be $3 per yard. Rock or sandstone entries shall be $3.50 per yard, and if this price is not satisfactory the company may blast such entries by day labor. Air-ways, break-throughs and all narrow work in the coal, when used for entries or air- ways, shall be $1 per yard, but whenever slate parting occurs in the coal and on top or iDottom is blasted the price shall be $1.50 per yard when the slate does not exceed 9 inches ; over 9 inches and up to 18 inches, in entries and rooms, 5 cents per ton extra on the coal will be paid. Turning rooms shall be $2.50 in high coal, $2.75 in medium coal and $3 in low coal for single rooms, and $4.50 for double rooms, in all coal when ordered. 3. All timber will be placed convenient to the mouth of the mine, but miners must select their timbers and place them con- venient to the track and number them, then the driver will bring them at his earliest convenience after being notified: but it must be distinctly understood that miners must not under any consideration continue to work if a delay of delivery endangers his safety. 278 United Mine Workers of America 4. Ten hours shall constitute a day’s labor, and all day labor shall be paid by the hour on the following scale : Drum, 17^2 cents per hour; chute, 15 cents per hour; head trackmen, 22 cents per hour; assistant trackmen, I71/2 cents per hour; drivers, I71/2 cents per hour; spike team drivers, 20 cents per hour; trappers, 5 to 71/2 cents per hour; oilers, 5 to 71/2 cents per hour; coupler, 12i^ cents per hour; furnace, 15 cents per hour. 5. Pay day shall be on the first Saturday after the 10th of each month for all work done in the preceding month, less charges, but on presentation of five days’ notice by any em- ploye he shall be entitled to full settlement at expiration of such notice. 6. Any employe desiring to have his dues to the lodge paid or collected through the office will notify the company to that effect, and collections will be paid to the parties desig- nated by the lodge, provided there is sufficient credit in the office to pay said dues, but under all circumstances the cut for checkweighman’s salary shall be recognized. 7. In case of death in the family of any employe, or upon the death of an employe, the following rule shall prevail ; Death by accident in or around any mine, such mine will lie idle until after the funeral. Death of a grown person from natural causes, the mine will lie idle on the afternoon of the funeral. On the death of a child, or minor, the work will not lie idle, but those wishing to attend the funeral may lay off to do so. 8. There shall be a board of arbitration and conciliation. This board shall consist of the following: J. C. Brooks, P. Francis and Wm. Jones for the operators; Burl Anderson, S. P. Herron and John Burns for the miners. In no case shall the men strike or quit until this board has finally acted. It is distinctly understood and agreed that this agreement is to be the basis of all settlements and arbitrations. 9. This agreement expires by limitation on April 30, 1894. W. T. Riley, Secretary-Treasurer, District 19. MACHINE MEN’S EARNINGS. New Straitsville, Ohio, IMay 8, 1893. The Columbus Hocking Coal and Iron Company are own- ers of a mine located between Straitsville and Shawnee on Rock Run, a branch of the Baltimore & Ohio railroad. It is a drift mine with a shipping capacity of 1,000 tons daily. In June, 1892, the Jeffrey electric cutting machine was placed Ohio Miners and Operators Confer 279 in the mine, and with the exception of a few stumps and pil- lars, all the coal was mined by this machine. From June, 1892, until January, 1893, 350 men were employed in and around the mine and 230 men since that time. The figures given are intended to show the earnings of the machine men at this mine for each month of the year quoted, with the hope that they will be of value to those interested. The following is the general average per month for one man with expenses, such as powder, oil, checkweighman and blacksmith, taken from it : 1892 May June July August _ September October _ November December 1893 January February March April Av. per mo. $35.65 26.85 43.75 32.75 28.80 36.90 28.80 22.80 20.50 20.50 32.00 22.50 Total .$351.80 Thus making a general average from May 1, 1892, up to May 1, 1893, of $29.31 per month. JOINT MEETING AT COLUMBUS, OHIO. On Tuesday morning. May 9, 1893, delegates from the Ohio miners met in the Grand Central Hotel, Columbus, Ohio, in response to a call made by national and district officers. District President Nugent called the convention to order and appointed the following committee on credentials: J. S. Wilson, Mark Gulliver and Valentine Tyson, who after a little delay reported delegates entitled to seats as follows : Charles Call, Edward Call, John H. Taylor, J. S. Wilson, Straitsville ; Charles A. Robbins, Yorkville; George Effner, Coshocton county; Lotwig Evans, Michael Ratchford, North Lawrence; Mark Gulliver, Coalton; William Etheridge, Glen Roy; A. A. Adams, Jonathan Coslet, Sub-District 9 ; G. Savage, Pal- myra; George Wend, Hocking Valley mine; Joseph Chad- wick, Alexander Johnson, Andrew Stephenson, Nelsonville; 280 United Mine Workers of America Edward Sohn, Buchtel; Samuel Martin, R. L. Davis, Rend- ville; W. L. Davis, Sub-district 4; Henry Shires, W. E. Lewis, Fluhart’s mines; W. J. Ryan, Sand Run; John Spriggs, Thomas McGuire, Wellston; Edmund Thomas, Longstreth; Thomas Padden, Lost Run mine; Hugh Lewis, Sub-District 7; Robert Pattison, Bellaire; Francis Jeffers, Local Union 430; James McMahon, Local Union 286; W. F. Fowler, Jackson county; V. Tyson, Sub-District 10; Dixon Edgerly, Steubenville; Oliver Channell, Jackson; W. Apple- garth, Maynard; Richard Allen, Wadsworth; William Atwood. Local Union 364; D. J. Jones, Shawnee; H. D. Allbaugh, Zaleski; David Potter, Simers Mine; C. W. W. Walker, Local Union 374; John Ronan, Clover Hill; Willard Bartoe, Local Union 270; Francis Welsh, Herron Brook; James Blu- meyer, Lisbon; John 0. Dolman, Local Union 81; C. P. Ray, Clifton Shaft; T. Hardy, Washingtonville ; members of the district board, J. D. Jones, Shawnee; Thomas McGough, Bridgeport; Michael Ratchford, North Lawrence; R. L. Davis, Rendville; Vice-President James Pritchard. National officers, John McBride, P. H. Penna, Patrick McBryde, J. H. Craw- ford, C. Miller, John Fahy, W. Howells. With the delegates seated. District President Nugent stated briefly that the object of the meeting was to meet the operators; that National Vice-President P. H. Penna and Sec- retary Patrick McBryde had signed the call, so had the oper- ators, and that he thought they could hold a joint meeting with the operators in the afternoon. National Vice-President Penna- said District President Nugent had stated the object of calling the convention cor- rectly and that he signed the call for reasons stated. After further explanations it was resolved to meet the operators and hold a night session jointly. The question was again considered in all its bearings, among which was the fact that other states had already agreed to work at the previous year’s prices and that operators were using this as one of the strongest arguments against an ad- vance of 5 cents per ton in Ohio. The Ohio miners insisted on an increase and many of them wanted to continue the struggle until the advance was con- ceded. Ohio Miners and Operators Confer 281 It was finally decided to adjourn and meet the operators in the afternoon. The joint conference met in the afternoon in Lyndon hall and after a short conference it was clearly demonstrated that the operators intended to stand for the last year’s prices and conditions. The result was an adjournment of the joint body, the miners remaining in the hall for the purpose of consider- ing the gravity of the situation as it now stood. The operators having left the hall, the national executive board was called upon to make a statement of the true state of affairs from a national standpoint. National President Mc- Bride, Vice-President Penna and Secretary Patrick McBryde, speaking for the national executive board, each in turn made the situation clear as to the cause for the unenviable position now confronting them. It was said that the position or- ganized miners found themselves in was a miscalculation based upon assurance as to the conduct of unorganized miners throughout the competitive field. With an explanation of the national officials and a discussion of the question in all its de- tails by several delegates, John H. Taylor moved “That we favor signing last year’s scale for mining, but will leave other disputed questions regarding inequalities (including the ma- chine and Jackson county matter) to arbitration, said ques- tions being mentioned in the scale of prices drawn up.” The motion was adopted. President McBride said that some specified time should be stated for the arbitration to take place. This was to be the understanding of the convention. The following spokesmen were elected to speak in the joint convention, who were supplemented by the district and na- tional officers: C. Call, V. Tyson, R. Patterson, H. Lewis, M. Ratchford, A. A. Adams, Thomas McGough, W. L. Davis, R. L. Davis, Thomas Hardy, James Blumeyer, Ed. Thomas and G. Savage. The convention then adjourned to meet the operators at 8 p. m. 282 United Mine Workers of America EVENING JOINT SESSION. The conference was called to order by Mr. Harris, oper- ator chairman, and Messrs. W. C. Pearce and Frank Brooks, secretaries. President Nugent, for the miners, said that the miners were willing to withdraw the claim for 5 cents advance, but desired that the machine question and Jackson county matter be considered and acted upon. Mr. Morton, operator, asked what do the miners desire? District President Nugent said the miners want a considera- tion of the Jackson county dispute and machine question. H. L. Chapman, ever ready to defend the coal mining in- terest of Jackson county operators, took charge of the floor with a display of oratory that caused both miners and oper- ators to take notice that the Jackson county coal field was not only on the map, but was and would continue to be well guarded against the intrusion of what he considered its rights by either miner or operator. He said “Jackson county prices were considered in 1886 upon a strike made by the miners. The operators had spent time and money, had ransacked docu- ments, books and statistics and the relative position of Jack- son county had been settled and that he for one would not be a party to the opening up of a reconsideration of the relative prices of Jackson county.” In referring to Judge Wm. H. Taft’s decision as umpire, he further said “sworn testimony had been taken and the matter had been submitted to an um- pire and it was decided adversely to the miners and they had accepted the situation.” The position taken by Chapman created much opposition on the part of both miners and operators. Of the latter, Mr. Howells of the Massillon district quoted figures to justify his position that Jackson county operators were paying less prices for mining than was being paid in the Massillon field. At times during the proceedings. Operators Chapman and Howells played a hustling game at repartee that, while lack- ing in pleasantries, made history for the miners of value for future use. President John McBride and Vice-President Penna made excellent speeches against the prices being paid in the Jackson county coal field, after which Mr. Johnson, Ohio Joint Conference Continued 283 operator, said that the Hocking Valley operators’ committee were willing to meet a committee of Hocking Valley miners and officials on the ground laid down by the miners. The hour of 11 p. m. having arrived, the conference ad- j ourned. The convention met on Wednesday morning, and a reso- lution was offered by President Nugent to the effect that we agree on last year’s prices, but that all irregularities and equalizations be held subject to adjudication. The resolution was discussed pro and con, various opinions being held by the operators. Messrs. Chapman and Howells had another bout something similar to what took place the preceding evening, but finally Mr. Chapman receded a little from his position and said he was willing to meet the repre- sentatives of Jackson county and talk the matter over, which brought about the appointment of committees from each sub- district to confer with like committees of operators. The fol- lowing were appointed on the committees for the miners : Machine Miners — Charles Call, Edmund Thomas, William Ryan, George Wend, William Bartlow, A. A. Adams, Edward Call, John Fahy. Sub-District No. 3 — Michael Ratchford, John Ronan, C. P. Ray, Lotwig Evans, Richard Allen, Francis Welsh. Sub-District No. J — W. L. Davis, James Pritchard, Alex. Johnson. Sub-District No. 5 — R. L. Davis, D. J. Jones, J. H. Taylor. Sub-District No. 6 — Thomas McGough, C. A. Robins, Wil- liam Atwood, R. J. Patterson, John McMahon, William Apple- garth. Sub-District No. 7 — All the delegates from Jackson county and Patrick McBryde. Sub-District No. 10 — Valentine Tyson, Cameron Miller. Columbiana County — Thomas Hardy, W. Blumeyer, John Nugent. Palmyra — G. Savage. Committee for the Operators : Palmyra — H. D. Hutson, H. D. Marble. Massillon District — A. Howells, J. M. Drake, L. R. War- wick, J. Beidler, W. Mullen. 284 United Mine Workers of America Tuscarawas County — J. A. Beidler, C. J. Brackenshire. Columbiana County — J. B. Zerbe, S. E. Walker, J. H. War- ner, T. Prosser, T. Lewis. Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad — George Heatherington, J. E. Waters, R. H. Wainwright, J, C. Allen. Jackson County — J. S. Willard, Theodore Fluhart, T. M. Morgan, D. Harris, E. T. Jones, H. L. Chapman. Hocking County — J. S. Morton, H. D. Turney, R. H. John- son, T. Johnson, V. Ferguson, M. E. Shaffer, D. C. Cole, E. Johnson. The convention then adjourned to give the committee time to act. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. The chairman called the meeting to order at 4 o’clock p. m. and a report from the respective committees was heard, only one of the committees, viz., that of Massillon, agreeing to vote for the resolution presented by Mr. Nugent in the morning session, which was as follows : Resolved, That the price of pick mining in the Hocking Valley, from May 1, 1893, to April 30, 1894, shall be 70 cents per ton, and the same relative prices shall be paid by other sections of the state, conditioned upon nothing, in this resolution, preventing an adjudication of irregularities or in- equalities in such prices. All the other committees, with probably one exception, reported that they had disagreed, this exception having agreed to abide by anything the convention might do. Jackson County district was noticeable for the emphatic way they had dis- agreed. Taylor moved that the reports of committees be received and the committees discharged. Carried. Mr. Howells moved that the resolution offered by Nugent, and which was lying on the table, be taken up. An operator asked if the miners had not always reserved the right which was sought in the resolution to adjudicate irregularities and inequalities. Secretary McBryde said that that right had been ques- tioned and they wanted it specified in the contract. Ohio Joint Conference Continued 285 A good deal of discussion was had on this motion, when Mr. McBride moved, That it be indefinitely postponed. This motion carried and a motion to adjourn passed, the miners to meet at 7 : 30 p. m. in Wirthwein’s hall and the joint convention to meet in the Lyndon hall at 9 a. m. tomorrow. NIGHT SESSION. The miners met in Wirthwein’s hall at 7 :30, with Presi- dent Nugent in the chair. National President McBride spoke and reviewed the whole field. He gave some very valuable information and his re- marks elicited a good deal of further light being shed on the situation in the different districts. The meeting resolved itself into e^^ecutive session and the different speeches from the delegates were not to be given out to the public. It is, however, permissible to say that Pres- ident McBride proved to the evident satisfaction of the dele- gates that the Massillon operators had no just ground to claim any reduction in the price of mining, no matter with whom they compared themselves. Speeches were made by John H. Taylor, Mark Gulliver, Ed. Thomas, C. Call, Ed. Call, Alex. Johnson, Brothers Blu- meyer, Nugent, Spriggs and others. Charles Call moved, that we refuse to sign a scale and that the question now before us be referred back to the sub-dis- tricts. Messrs. Fowler, Thomas and McBride spoke on the motion. Mr. McGough moved the previous question, which was ordered, and Mr. Call’s motion prevailed. Mr. Johnson moved that in case of a lock-out the district executive board be em- powered to make provisions for the support of the locked-out men, which was adopted. The meeting then adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING. The joint convention again met in Lyndon hall, and after President Nugent stated the position of the miners, Mr. Mor- ton, operator, moved. That we agr.ee to sign the scale of last year, with the exception of the Massillon district. P. McBryde opposed the motion, and asked if it was fair to extend to the Massillon operators the privilege which the 286 United Mine Workers of America operators refused the miners, which was that of arbitrating the grievances and inequalities that they, the miners, com- plained of. Mr. Chapman said, in regard to the miners’ position, that they in the Jackson county field would not resume work with- out a contract signed for the year. Secretary McBryde said that the miners had always hon- orably carried out all contracts that had been entered into by them, but that if they were not permitted to voluntarily sign a scale and were coerced into signing a contract, that they did not believe to be fair, that they would not consider a thing of that kind a contract at all, and that they would break it with as little compunction as if it never existed. He was followed by' Mr. Chapman, who insisted that Mr. McBryde did not mean what he had said. Chapman produced the proceedings of some convention which was held away back in the 70’s or early 80’s, to which Mr. McBride’s and N. R. Hysell’s signatures were attached, containing a resolution purporting to have settled the present relative basis of prices throughout the state of Ohio. Mr. Hall, operator, of the Hocking Valley, spoke, and in a very friendly way lectured the miners’ side of the convention, and desired them to go ahead as usual, sign a scale and, if they had any grievances, to get them in shape, and then they could have an all-round dance, by bringing the other states in with them. He was getting along admirably up to this point, when Secretary McBryde tripped him up and referred him to Mr. Chapman’s position. Mr. Hall said he did not understand that any of the operators were averse to what he had said. “Yes, they are,” said McBryde, “for IMr. Chapman says his case is settled forever.” “Forever?” says Mr. Hall. “Yes, forever and ever, amen,” said McBryde. In the midst of Mr. Hall’s discomfiture, which was less due to his own ability to express his views (for he is a lucid talker), than to the palpable groundlessness of the stand taken by Mr. Chapman, Mr. Morton came to his assistance by rising and explaining further the position of the machine question. He said that the machine operators could not pay one cent more and work their mines. In answer to Mr. Nugent, he said Ohio Joint Conference Continued 287 that the pick operators could not take the large contracts that the machine operators could; that their capital, their credit and their banking facilities permitted the machine operators to carry their coal to fields that the pick operators could not reach. The foresight and energy of the machine operators had given them these advantages. But now they found that the Pennsylvania operators were securing dock facilities at the head of the lakes, and they were shutting the Ohio oper- ators out, even there. He said that they could buy coal from the Pennsylvania operators and others and sell it with a profit, but they could not get a profit from their own coal that they mined themselves. Mr. Taylor, of Straitsville, spoke and said that all the miners wanted was the rights of citizenship. They would go to work at last year’s prices, but they wanted to have their hands loose. He said, “You operators say you will not go to work without a contract. We say we will not sign last year’s contract. If I sign a contract I want to say that I will not break it, but I don’t want to sign a contract unless it is a fair one.” Mr. John McBride said that, according to speeches made by some of the operators, they had understood Secretary Mc- Bryde’s and Mr. Taylor’s speeches as indicating that if a con- tract was made, that they would break it at will. He said Secretary McBryde did not mean any such thing, nor did he intend it in that way. He meant that if a contract was forced upon any locality against the protest of the organization, the organization would not consider itself bound by any such con- tract. President McBride referred to several precedents for the correctness of this position, and Secretary McBryde nodded assent to this interpretation of his language. Mr. Ratchford spoke and said that if he understood Mr. Howells correctly, to the effect that the Massillon district miners thought they were too high, he wished to correct the statement, as it was not so. Mr. Howells, operator, denied having made the statement. Mr. McBride took up the question of the Massillon district, and said that it by no means followed that should Mr. Howells file a complaint that his demands would be agreed to. He had fought this question for twenty years, and he was pretty 288 United Mine Workers of America familiar with it, and he assured the convention that while he had listened, up to the present without protest to what Mr. Howells had said, he was far from agreeing with him. After a little more parleying, Mr. McBride asked if the miners agreed to sign last year’s scale and that a joint com- mittee be appointed to investigate the machine question, the Jackson county question and all other irregularities in the state, and report at their next annual convention, would the operators be willing? and upon Mr. Chapman answering in the negative, McBride immediately moved that we do now adjourn. The motion was carried, and the convention broke up without any agreement being reached. Coal Operator Howell was afterwards appointed Consul at Cardiff, Wales. Later — The following circular, which has been sent out by the district executive board, explains itself : Columbus, Ohio, May 12. To the Miners of Ohio, Greeting: After the joint convention adjourned on Thursday, the miners held a meeting, and after a short discussion it was de- cided to leave the matter of settling the scale with the district executive board, and the following resolution was passed, and left with the board as a basis upon which the settlement should be made: Motion, that we favor the signing of the scale, providing that Jackson county and all other operators are willing to have the investigation go on and all their books gone over, to show actual cost of production in all districts of the state. The executive board and the operators met at about 3 o’clock, and remained in session until 7 p. m. An agreement was finally reached bj^ the passage of the following resolution, which is the contract for the year : “This agreement, entered into this 11th day of l\Iay, 1893, by and between the mine operators and the miners of Ohio, witnesseth. That the scale of prices paid in all parts of the state of Ohio from May 1, 1892, to May 1, 1893, shall be paid in the several districts of said state from IMay 1, 1893, to May 1, 1894, and the same conditions in the several districts of said state prevailing from May 1, 1892, to May 1, 1893, shall continue from May 1, 1893, to May 1, 1894. “That a general committee for the state, consisting of two operators and two miners, to co-operate with and be assisted by local committees consisting of two other operators and two other miners of each district, the whole to constitute a board Ohio Joint Conference Adjourns 289 of investigation, be appointed to inquire into the cost of pro- duction and other matters in each district as defined and specified in this agreement, viz. : “First — The cost of placing lump coal f. o. b. cars and the details of said cost. “Second — The wages paid to all classes of day labor. “Third — The average earning capacity of men working by the ton for the period of one year. “Fourth — The average earning per day of the best 100 men in each field, based on the number of days worked during the year, designating room men and entry men, 10 per cent of the 100 men to be entry men, and so designated and their earnings to be separately stated. “Fifth — The average proportion of lump and small coal made and marketed in each district. “That the period for examination and inquiry shall be the mining year from May 1, 1892, to May 1, 1893. “That the committee herein provided shall conduct its in- quiry between June l, 1893, and October 1, 1893, and at the close of its investigations shall print a full and complete re- port, without recommendation, of the facts obtained, of which copies shall be furnished to both operators and miners of the state. “That the expenses of the committee herein provided shall be paid, those of the miners of said committee by the miners and the expenses of the operators of said committee by the operators.” In witness whereof we have set our hands this 11th day of May, 1893. Signed — On behalf of the miners, by John Nugent, state president; W. C. Pearce, state secretary; John McBride, presi- dent of the United Mine Workers of America. On behalf of the operators, by J. S. Morton, Thomas John- son, H. D. Turney and R. H. Johnson, composing a committee for Hocking operators; H. L. Chapman, H. S. Willard, E. T. Jones and T. J. Morgan, composing a committee for the Jack- son operators ; George Atherton, of the Wheeling & Lake Erie Company; J. E. Waters, Pittsburgh & Wheeling Coal Com- pany of Sub-District 6. Attest : F. S. Brooks, Secretary. CHAPTER XIV. MACHINE MEETING. AN EFFORT MADE TO FORM ONE DISTRICT FOR ALL THE MACHINE MINERS IN THE STATE. Murray, Ohio, June 3, 1893. Convention called to order at 10 o’clock a. m., with W. E. Farms in the chair. Roll called and the following delegates were present: James Hardy, Raybould Brothers, Orbiston; Joseph Evans, Local Union 290, Jobs; Marion George, Bra- shears; George Shackert, New Pittsburg; H. A. Banning, New Pittsburg, Nos. 8 and 9; S. D. Hannah, Sand Run; W. H. Crawford, Lost Run; Adam Nash, Hocking Valley; M. Har- rington, Mine No. 21 ; Daniel Ogg, Coalgate. Minutes of the last convention read and approved. The following resolutions were adopted by the convention : Resolved, That the secretary of this sub-district be au- thorized to communicate with all machine mines of Ohio, with the object of forming one grand machine district of the state. Resolved, That the secretary have all resolutions printed and sent to all locals covered by above resolution, and that the secretary call a meeting at some central point after receiv- ing returns from the same. M. Harrington, H. A. Banning and Joseph Evans, the auditing committee, made their report as follows: We have examined the books of the secretary-treasurer and find the following to be correct: Receipts, $97.48; expenditures, $95.36; balance in treasury June 1, $2.12. Moved, That two men be elected at this convention to assist committee of miners and operators in machine district, as per agreement, in signing yearly scale. S. D. Hannah and J. A. Donley were declared elected. W. E. Farms, President, J. A. Donley, Secretary-Treasurer. ( 290 ) Explanation Circulae to Miners 291 CAN’T AGREE. Columbus, Ohio, July 12, 1893. To the Miners of Ohio, Greeting : Fellow Miners — Pursuant to the agreement made between the miners and operators of District 6, on May 11, 1893, one clause of which contained a provision to the effect that a gen- eral committee for the state, consisting of two operators and two miners, etc., investigate the cost of coal, wages paid to all classes of day labor, average earnings, proportion of lump to small coal, etc.. President Nugent and M. Ratchford of the executive board, acting for the miners, met J. S. Morton and H. L. Chapman, they acting for the operators, to define a method of procedure of investigation. This joint committee failed to agree on any method and the committee acting for the miners called the undersigned, your executive board, to meet in Columbus on the 12th and 13th instants, to take under advisement the points of disagreement and to meet with rep- resentatives of the operators for the purpose of conferring with a view to a better understanding of the object and func- tions of the investigating committee. We met in the office of the Columbus & Hocking Fuel Company, Mr. H. L. Chapman, R. H. Johnson, H. D. Turney, J. S. Morton, J. Slater and Mr. Martin being present in behalf of the operators. We regret to say that we did not succeed in agreeing upon the matter in dispute. The points were as follows : The oper- ators claimed that the capital invested in all plants and prop- erty and its depreciation should be made a very prominent feature in the investigation. But a claim which seemed to us to be even more untenable, not to say unreasonable, than this, was that we, or rather the committee, should not be per- mitted to know the selling price of coal, or given any other means of knowing operators’ profits. It will be obvious to you that we could not afford to permit such a one-sided in- vestigation to proceed, and with all due respect to the other side, we preferred to adjourn without agreeing upon the mat- ter in dispute. It is understood that if at any time intervening between now and the termination of the scale year, the chairman of the committee has reason for calling the meeting again he is empowered to do so. John Nugent, James Pritchard, W. C. Pearce, M. Ratchford, R. L. Davis, T. McGough, D. H. Sullivan, D. J. Jones. 292 United Mine Workers of America UMPIRE’S DECISION. Washington ville, 0., July 28, 1893. The Cannelton arbitration question is at last settled, and in favor of the miners, and while it has taken considerable time on the part of myself and Vice-President Pritchard, yet we are glad that the decision has been given in our favor and we hope that the miners of Columbiana county will not forget Representative Joseph Brittain for his fair and impartial de- cision in this case. Below will be found his decision. D. H. Sullivan. To W. H. Warner, James Pritchard and D. H. Sullivan: Having had the honor of acting as umpire in deciding a disputed question of wages between W. H. Warner, on the part of the Sterling Mining Company, and James Pritchard and D. H. Sullivan, on the part of the miners employed by said company in mining coal at their Cannelton, Pa., mines, I have arrived at the following conclusion after four days’ of study and investigation. There is no question but that the coal in question is what is known in this section as No. 6 coal and varies but little in thickness from that being mined at Carbon Hill and other mines in this vicinity, where the operators are all paying 82yo cents per ton, and while there is a sharp competition for the coal trade the same is equally true of all business, resulting in close margins. The Sterling Mining Company claims to have taken a con- tract at a less price than the one which they received last year. I am also informed that there was a general reduction made to other operators for this vicinity w'hile they are paying the same price for mining as they were, which is 10 cents higher for one grade and 5 cents higher for another grade than is being paid at Cannelton; namely, 721/0 cents and 77^ cents per ton. I also find officers’ salaries are being paid at the Cannelton mines far in excess of those paid persons holding similar posi- tions at other works. I presume, however, that this is satis- factory to the company, but it increases very materially the cost of production, especially in mines where the tonnage is not large. I am also informed that the present Cannelton mine will be abandoned in a few months and that the remaining coal which will be mined will necessitate but little dead work. I am also informed that there is a well-grounded impression that when the Sterling company opens their new works they will pay the price for mining which there prevails for this community, and further, that the company, through Mr. W. Sixty-Day Notes for Ohio Miners 293 H. Warner, last May, offered an advance of 2^4 cents per ton and 50 cents per keg on powder, amounting to almost 3 cents per ton. I also notice the price paid for several kinds of work at this mine is much lower than prices paid for similar work at the Palestine mines; I also find that the Cannelton miiie produces a good quality of merchantable coal. In view of all the above statements and the existing cir- cumstances and in the absence of any document showing that the state association ordered the Cannelton mines to resume work at the price paid during 1892, therefore, it is my de- cision that the Sterling Mining Company shall pay to those who are now or have been mining since May 1, 1893, an ad- vance of 5 cents per ton over prices paid during the period from May 1, 1892, to May 1, 1893. Yours truly, Joseph Brittain. SIXTY-DAY NOTES. To the Members of District 6, United Mine Workers of Amer- ica, Greeting: Because of the present financial condition of the country many of the coal operators of Ohio are unable to meet their obligations to miners and mine laborers and make payments for work performed upon regular pay days in money. Many, if not all, operators in this state are good, honest, safe business men, who have no desire to take an advantage of their employes, but unfavorable conditions compel them to either secure the co-operation of their employes to tide them over the present difficulty or close their mines, which would mean to mine laborers idleness and suffering. Many mines are now idle because operators can not secure money to pay their employes semi-monthly; many more have declared their inability to pay upon regular pay days and miners have volunteered to wait thirty, sixty and ninety days for their wages, while others again have propositions pending to defer payments beyond the regular time. This state of affairs necessitated a meeting of your exec- utive board to consider the situation. The board recognized the deplorable state of affairs throughout the district and held council over a proposition from the operators of the entire Hocking Valley region, which offered sixty-day notes on each regular pay day in lieu of money. This proposition the board rejected and then met the operators in joint committee, when the whole matter was discussed. The operators afterwards submitted the following amended proposition, which the board deemed wise and expedient to accept in your behalf : 294 United Mine Workers of America Columbus, 0., August 8, 1893. To the State Executive Board: Gentlemen: We amend our proposition made you yester- day as follows : We agree to pay on the regular pay days, be- ginning August 10, 1893, for advances due to our employes in our notes at sixty days from date with interest at the rate of 6 per cent after 30 days. These notes will be made to the order of the employes receiving them and will be negotiable. The arrangement proposed to continue in force during the stringency of the money market and to be terminated when- ever, in the judgment of the joint committee, it can be done with safety. J. S. Morton, Thos. Johnson, R. H. Johnson, H. D. Turney, Committee. Accepted on behalf of the miners: John Nugent, presi- dent; W. C. Pearce, secretary; Michael Ratchford, D. J. Jones, Thomas McGough, D. H. Sullivan, R. L. Davis, members of the board. Concurred in by John McBride, president; P. McBryde, secretary; United Mine Workers of America. The entire lake trade is conducted upon a credit basis, and coal sold for this trade is paid for four months after ship- ment. The operators shipping coal to the lake formerly paid railroad and boat freights in time paper, but the railroad and boats now demand cash for coal tonnage, and the inability of operators to comply with this demand and at the same time pay the miners cash twice each month, gave them the choice of either closing their mines or asking the miners to aid them in holding their trade. You and your families are interested jointly with the oper- ators in keeping the mines at work. The proposition of the operators, which we have accepted, allows the operators to run the mines, gives you work and does no injury to anyone interested in the coal trade. The promissory notes given by operators in lieu of money will be accepted by almost any business man and this gives to all miners at least a living during these hard times; the semi- monthly pay days are not waived and as soon as financial con- ditions improve your board will see to it that cash payments are resumed. In assuming the regrettable responsibility of thus acting in your name we count on your calm good judgment in accept- Sixty-Day Notes for Ohio Miners 295 ing the result as the very best which, in our judgment, can be secured under present unfortunate conditions. John Nugent, President, James Pritchard, Vice-President, W. C. Pearce, Secretary, M. Ratchford, D. J. Jones, D. H. Sullivan, R, L. Davis, Members Executive Board. Concurred in by John McBride, president; P. McBryde, secretary; United Mine Workers of America; Columbus, 0., August 8, 1893. The mine workers of Ohio were not alone in their trouble over the stringency of the money market in 1893. All trades were similarly affected, because of the lack of confidence that prevails throughout the entire country, a sample of which fol- lows : “Another feature of the money situation is shown in the following note issued by the America Federation of Labor: New York, August 7, 1893. To Secretaries of National, State, Local and Labor Unions Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. Brothers : The banks of New York City have issued notices that they will not be responsible for out-of-town checks at present, and under these circumstances you will confer a favor by making your payments for per capita tax and supplies by postoffice orders, postal notes or registered letter until confi- dence among the bankers is again restored. A postal note to the amount of $4.99 can be procured at a cost of 3 cents. Postoffice orders up to $10 for 8 cents and registered letters at 8 cents each. By complying with the above suggestion you will remove the cause for a refusal to pay checks received that would have to be returned to unions sending them. Very truly yours, Chris Evans, Secretary A. F of L. On August 11, 1893, a mass meeting was held at Jobs, 0., in the Hocking Valley district. Miners were present from Jobs, New Pittsburg, Brashears, Murray City, Sand Run, Carbon Hill, Longstreth, Monday, Buchtel and Nelsonville. 296 United Mine Workers of America The meeting was presided over by Isaiah Hoch, assisted by John H. Taylor. I. N. Coleman and C. H. Jones acted as sec- retaries. In opening the meeting the chairman said the object was to consider the agreement made August 8, 1893, between their state and national officials and the operators of Ohio on the question of accepting sixty day notes as payment for wages due. The meeting was very tumultuous in character, with a pre- vailing sentiment for resignations as the order of the day. After an explanation by District President John Nugent, in which reasons were given for the signing of the agreement, he tendered his resignation, as requested, to take effect Sep- tember 1, 1893. The following resolutions were adopted : Resolved, That we, as miners, reject the agreement made August 8, 1893, at Columbus, 0., between the operators and our state and national officials. Resolved, That the sense of this meeting is that the state officials and John McBride and P. McBryde, president and secretary of the national, are requested to resign their offices. Resolved, That we favor a convention of delegates from the several mines at Athens, Hocking and Perry counties to meet at Shawnee, 0., on August 16, 1893. Resolved, That the miners of each mine do not resume work until they receive their pay due them August 16, 1893, but at any time the operators pay them their wages now due to resume work on receiving their pay. Isaiah Hoch, Chairman, I. N. Coleman, C. H. Jones, Secretaries. COLUMBUS CONVENTION. At 11 a. m., August 21, 1893, the delegates representing the Hocking and Sunday Creek Valleys met in Room 5, Grand Central Hotel, Columbus, 0., to consider the question of the acceptance or rejection of the agreement entered into on the 8th inst. between two of the national officials and the district executive board, and to take whatever steps they might deem advisable in accordance with the instructions from their con- stituents. Sixty-Day Notes for Ohio Miners 297 District President Nugent acted as chairman and W. C. Pearce as secretary. The following delegates were present: Mike Collins, Charles Gibbs, H. A. Panning, J. W. Rowemine, George Wend, A. Johnson, Thos. Winning, M. J. Grogan, J. H. Taylor, W. Jenkins, D. Oldroyd, R. Mason, Ralph Spooner, F. M. Snyder, George Shackert, Stephen Evans, I. N. Coleman, Ed Thomas, S. H. Penrod, I. Jones, Ed Call, James Coulter, A. A. Adams, D. S. Roberts, John Evans, W. Clark. After a few preliminary remarks by a few of the delegates a specific expression was made by nearly every one present. Following is a statement of the position of the respective in- structions. Jones — Discretionary power. Adams — Money only. Mine 20 — Discretionary power. Mine 21, Mine 8 and Mine 19 — To stand by action of executive board. Sand Run — Two weeks’ pay that is due and the next best thing. J. H. Taylor — Same as Sand Run. ' M. Col- lins — To sustain the action of the board. Mine 12 — To stand by the board. Johnson and Nelsonville — Must be two weeks’ pay if possible. Thomas — No compromise unless paid for that due. Wend — Two weeks’ pay and all other propositions to be returned to the miners. Shawnee — Two weeks’ pay and all other propositions to be taken back to men. Brashears, Jobs and Delegates Coleman and Clarke — The same. New Pitts- burg — Two weeks’ pay. New Pittsburg, old mine — Two weeks’ pay. Resolved, That we meet the operators at 3 p. m. Carried. Resolved, That we adjourn to 1 p. m. Carried. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Nugent took the chair. Resolved, That we have a full report from the officials. John McBride — I have no report to make unless to the miners themselves. I do not propose to give it to them by proxy. P. McBryde took the same stand as President Mc- Bride, as also did all the members of the district board. Resolved, That we demand our wages in cash for the 10th of August. Seventeen delegates voted for the motion and none against it, hence the motion prevailed. 298 United Mine Workers of America JOINT MEETING. The operators then entered the room and President Nugent called the meeting to order. He said the meeting is on ac- count of the agreement being rejected by the miners of the three counties, Hocking, Athens and Perry, who have refused to accept notes, and their delegates are here to meet the oper- ators and to arrange for the re-establishment of the semi- monthly pay. Messrs. Morton Turner and Thomas Johnson, for the operators, explained their side of the situation in turn, and the discussion that followed covered pages pro and con between miners: Alexander Johnson, John H. Taylor, Ed. Call, A. A. Adams, Michael Ratchford, M. Collins, Edmund Thomas, I. N. Coleman, District President John Nugent, National President John McBride, Secretary Patrick McBryde and the operators; the all important question being how to get cash for work done instead of 60-day notes that in many instances were referred to as being unworthy the recognition of bankers and often refused by provision stores in the mining towns. The miners argued how essential it was to have cash in order to meet payments due to building and loan associations through which numbers of miners were struggling hard to have a little home of their own, but, failing to pay cash as agreed to, the mortgage on them would be foreclosed. The question was also asked by the miners as to how they were to pay their membership dues to the union and beneficial societies to which they belonged. The operators’ reply was to the effect that while no special rule could be made to govern these cases, yet they did not anticipate that any operator would be so rigid as not to help a worthy man out in cases of that kind. A statement was made by operator Johnson of the New Pittsburg Coal Company in which he said he had $94,000 worth of the best and safest security to be had anywhere, but that he could not get a dollar on it in the banks. Under these circumstances, the miners asked if it were not possible to get certified checks instead of those notes, to which operator Morton replied “that the certified check plan could not be utilized except in cities where the banks were organized and had the clearing house machinery in full operation.” Pay- Sixty-Day Notes for Ohio Miners 299 merits for amounts in cash less than $5 were also asked for without receiving a satisfactory response from the operators after which the joint meeting adjourned. TUESDAY MORNING SESSION President Nugent called the convention to order. National President McBride addressed the convention in a very calm, conservative resume of the situation of the country, and especially of the mining craft, and showed why the executive board had agreed with the operators on the 60- day paper. It is only just to say that no sophistry was re- sorted to by him. He simply stated facts that were patent to almost everybody, but presented them in such a way that no one could fail to realize the force of them. Other speeches were made by Board Member Ratchford in justification of their action, followed by several delegates, after which a more friendly feeling was displayed. A com- mittee consisting of A. A. Adams, Alexander Johnson, William Jenkins, Ed Call, F. M. Snyder and D. S. Roberts, were ap- pointed to draft a resolution for presentation to the operators, the same to be ratified by the miners. The report of the com- mittee follows : Resolved, That we recommend that 121/2 cent of the money due each pay day be paid in cash, but the amount of cash in no case to exceed $5 at one pay; the rest in denomi- national notes, and wherever any trouble arises in negotiating the notes it shall be compulsory on the part of the operators to arrange for their negotiability, or otherwise provide for the payment of the men in satisfactory paper or currency ; other- wise the employes will violate no agreement in not working for notes not good. The notes to be given by the operators to be sixty-day notes; the time that this agreement shall last to be determined by our executive board. Moved, That the executive board meet the operators and present the proposition. Carried. The convention adjourned to 1 p. m., and in the meantime the executive board were to meet the operators in the Hocking Valley Company’s office. 300 United Mine Workers of America WEDNESDAY MORNING SESSION. The executive board read a report from the operators, which declined to concede anything more than that offered to the executive board, except to give the notes in $5 denomina- tions. The report stated that they did not expect anyone to accept paper that was not exchangeable. After a long discussion it was Resolved, That we recom- mend nothing, but that we go home and call local meetings and then call a convention at Shawnee, on Saturday at 9 a. m. Carried. Meeting adjourned. SHAWNEE CONVENTION. Shawnee, Ohio, August 26, 1893. The delegate convention of the counties of Hocking, Athens and Perry met on Saturday, in accordance with the resolution passed at Columbus on the 23d inst., to take steps regarding the matter of payment of wages, which was left open by the rescinding of the sixty-day agreement by the board. President Nugent took the chair and Secretary Pearce acted as secretary. The chair stated the object of the convention and invited suggestions as to what should be done. Resolved, That each delegate report his instructions. The delegates having reported, it was Resolved, That the convention appoint a committee of three to draft a resolution and bring it before the convention. Committee — J. H. Taylor, C. Gibbs, I. N. Coleman, and J. M. Thompson. The committee reported the following, which was adopted : Resolved, That each and every mine in the three counties agree on such terms most agreeable between themselves and their respective operators, but in no case notes to exceed sixty days from the date of their issue, said terms to exist until such time as, in the judgment of our executive board, the condition of the money market will justify them in re- suming semi-monthly pay in currency. John Nugent, President. W. C. Pearce, Secretary. 301 Second Audit for District 6, 1893 AUDIT DISTRICT NUMBER 6, 1893. After much controversy through the United Mine Workers Journal between state auditors R. L. Davis and Thomas Mc- Gough as to their findings when auditing the books of Secre- tary W. C. Pearce for the six months ending October 1, 1893, the district executive board made another audit of receipts and expenses together with suggestions for constitutional changes that would be more explicit and duties more clearly defined. Their report follows : Columbus, Ohio, December 7, 1893. We, as members of the executive board, have gone over the books of Secretary-Treasurer Pearce and find them as fol- lows : Receipts. Balance on hand April 1 $2,219.64 April ■ .384.95 May 000.31 June 656.89 July 548.50 August 231.15 September 293.80 Total $4,935.24 Expenditures. April $758.79 May 1,056.58 June 698.04 July 597.31 August 368.87 September 845.62 Total $4,325.21 Total receipts $4,935.24 Total expenses 4,325.21 Balance on hand October 1, 1893 610.03 R. L. Davis. D. H. Sullivan. T. McGough. D. J. Jones. CHAPTER XV. SPECIAL SESSION OF DISTRICT NUMBER 6. Columbus, Ohio, January 9, 1894. The convention was called to order by President Nugent at 10 a. m., W. C. Pearce acting as secretary. The following were appointed a committee on credentials: D. Moylan, E. E. Burley, W. L. Davis, W. H. Crawford, Joseph Gray, F. Christian, Ed Thomas, S. Glasgow. The committee reported the following delegates: Arthur Morgan, S. Glasgow, William E. Williams, Joseph M. Donahue, William Tannahill, T. R. Jones, Albert L. Lucas, F. Matheny, Alexander Aikens, R. J. Jones, Michael Welch, Thomas Miller, Thomas Winning, F. M. Tollett, Wally Phillips, Thomas L. Lewis, Orrin Kelly, Joseph B. Dean, A. A. Adams, Jonathan Todd, Thomas McGough, Brad Jones, J. Gray, J. J. Eddy, Peter Fealty, M. F. Moran, John Philipson, L. Wright, John Fahy, Thomas Prichard, S. Gleghorn, Thomas E. Davis, Alex Johnson, Frank Collard, Edmond Thomas, Joseph Forsbach, Samuel P. Stephens, W. H. Crawford, Isaac McGee, John Ponn, Fred Dilcher, Sam Conrad, S. S. Cross, William Has- kins, Frank Burns, D. T. Souders, F. Weymuller, D. E. Evans, T. B. Angle, J. B. Hutchinson, Frank Christian, John Joseph, Andrew Stephenson, H. T. Blake, W. L. Davis, Thomas Work- man, Samuel Wilson, Asa Robinson, William Gregory, H. A. Banning, W. E. Clark, E. R. Nanna, James Biddle, Evan Wil- liams, J. H. Spence, Henry Mullen, E. E. Burley, Dennis Moy- lan, William Hillier, M. J. Beatty, R. L. Davis, W. H. Lewis, J. W. Grinstead, Wood Gallagher. Motion, That the report of committee be accepted. Adopted. Motion, That Brother Ed Thomas represent Hamley Run by proxy. Adopted. At this stage of the proceedings John McBride, P. H. Penna and P. McBryde of the national union, entered the hall. Motion, That all sessions of this convention be held as executive sessions. Adopted. Adjourned for dinner. ( 302 ) Ohio Special Convention, January, 1894 303 AFTERNOON SESSION. President Nugent delivered the following address; Fellow-Miners — This is a special session, and as such needs but a short address by me. When your executive board met last month, among the things considered by them was the de- plorable condition of our constituents on account of the scar- city of work. We attempted to find the cause of this, and were convinced that not only was the general depression in financial and industrial circles throughout the country re- sponsible, but that the almost incredible reductions in the Pittsburg district, and consequent invasion of our markets were accountable in a large measure. At best, activity was not to be expected, but when that portion of our trade which fell to us as our legitimate share was going, by the unparalleled ac- tion of the Pittsburg men, and the continued descent being made by them, which had started at 79 cents — the regular scale of that district — to, in some places, 53 cents, and which threatened us still more and more, we deemed it right that we call the miners of Ohio together, through their delegates, for the purpose of consultation over this very serious state of affairs. I desire to say in behalf of the board that we had assur- ances from the operators — especially the Hocking Valley — that there would be no attempt made by them to violate the scale of prices, until the 1st of May, but while this is true, I must not neglect to say that their assurance, given in very emphatic terms, was that when the present scale year was over, they would enter into no contract or agreement except upon the same terms as their competitors. In view of this fact we concluded that preparations of either one kind or another should be made. We had a vague idea that perhaps the united wisdom of the miners of the state might evolve some plan by which our fellow-craftsmen of Pennsylvania would stop their suicidal and murderous policy; or at least, that if they could not be prevailed upon to do so, whether we could not, acting as an organized and united body of men, do something in the way of self-preservation. In the meantime, however, I have had a surprise added to those already given by the action of the Pittsburg men. On my arrival home from Pittsburg, where I had taken it upon myself to go, to assist the national officers. I was astounded to find that the Ohio operators had changed their minds, and a demand from them of a reduction in wages was presented to me, to take effect on the 15th of the present month. I am not prepared to say what influenced them, after giving us the assurances they did only a month ago that no 304 United Mine Workers of America change would be sought by them, in now meeting us with this request. Their demand is as follows : “Columbus, Ohio, December 27, 1893. “John Nugent, Esq., President. “Dear Sir: We are advised that while the 65 cents is now the maximum price in the western Pennsylvania district, many of the operators are paying much less; some 60 cents, others 53 cents, and still others as low as 40 cents for li/^-inch coal, and this coal is forcing its way into our markets and taking our trade; and it is evident that we must either have immediate relief, or our business will continue to drift away to other districts and more of our mines be compelled to close down. To afford us the necessary protection, we must be placed on a competitive basis not later than January 15. “We greatly regret that the conditions exist which compel a reduction in price of mining, but it would be folly to longer ignore the fact that they do exist, and that we must meet competition or lose a large volume of business which it will be very difficult to recover. “Respectfully, “Thomas Johnson, “R. H. Johnson, “H. D. Turney, “J. S. Morton, “Committee.” Besides the foregoing demand we have received notice of a reduction from several operators in the Bellaire and Saline- ville districts of from 10 to 15 cents a ton, protestations against which have been made both by us and the miners of those districts. Some of the miners there are working and some are idle pending the action of this convention. The agitation carried on by Secretary McBryde and J. A. Crawford, assisted by the Pittsburg officials, has been fairly satisfactory, advancing the wages from 38, 53 and 55 cents to 65 cents per ton. This, however, leaves the Pittsburg district, even where they are receiving 65 cents, 14 cents below their proper scale of prices. What further success the national officials expect I am not able to say, but we will per- haps have an opportunity of hearing their views on the situation before we adjourn. I trust that the best intelligence of this body will be exer- cised in behalf of harmony and good feeling, for whatever may be accomplished, in this way we can rest assured that without it very little is possible. I assure you that any dufv’ imposed upon me in the exercise of your good judgment looking towards the amelioration of our common craft will Ohio Special Convention, January, 1894 305 be freely and cheerfully fulfilled by your humble servant. John Nugent. Motion, that the roll be called and each delegate give his report. Adopted. On a roll call being made, the feeling expressed through the delegates was almost unanimous against any reduction on the prices being paid. The report of the delegates having been completed a motion was adopted to hear from the national officers. Secretary McBryde spoke at some length and entered into the cause leading up to the unsatisfactory condition of af- fairs in the Pittsburg district. He reported the work done by himself. Brothers Crawford and Nugent and the district officers, and said they had had much success the first week of their labors in the river district, but that the railroad mines were as yet a stumbling block in the way of uniformity. President McBride next spoke, and in a very exhaustive speech reviewed the whole field as affecting the State of Ohio. He was very plain and unambiguous in his language, and clearly impressed the convention that his idea of betterment of the situation was for the Ohio men to meet their undoubt- edly unapproachable competitors by placing themselves in such a position as to leave the original differential of 9 cents between themselves and the Pittsburg men. Whether this was done or not (and h'e didn’t want them to be governed by his words) it was inevitable that under present circumstances there would be a reduction in Ohio. His arguments were evidently received in no quibbling spirit by the majority of the delegates, but were only too fully realized and appreciated by them. It was evident, however, that they were not fully persuaded of the fullness of the suggested remedy. A motion to meet the operators was made and carried. Motion that we meet at 9 a. m. carried and convention ad- journed. WEDNESDAY MORNING. President Nugent called the convention to order, and stated that Messrs. Morton, Johnston, Turney and Johnson, the Hocking Valley operators’ committee, were present and prepared to make a statement to the convention. 306 United Mine Workers of America Mr. Morton was introduced and said in part: In early December they had met the miners’ executive board, and con- ferred with them to ascertain what the situation was at that time, and to get their (the operators’) voice on the matter. They had agreed, notwithstanding many of the miners were willing to go lower than the price agreed upon, not to accept their offer. They believed at that time that if lower prices were accepted it would have a bad effect. He said they would rather pay 70 cents a ton if it were possible to do so. He thought this movement of reducing wages was a disadvantage to everybody concerned, miner and employer alike. It was plain that if a man was getting $15 and he was reduced to $10 there was $5 less in circulation, and just that much less to pay to manufacturers for the goods they manufacture and conse- quently less call for coal to run those manufactories. It was well known that Pittsburg coal is 65 cents instead of 79, and the larger portion of them 60 cents, and had information that at one place the miners had gone down to 14 . of a cent a bushel below that at Floersheim’s on the Baltimore and Ohio. Some of those places where it had been tried to bring up have gone back at a lower price. In order to be fully informed and prepared, he said the operators had sent a committee of their own into the Pitts- burg field to investigate the conditions there and they had gathered statistics which he would read. These aTe as fol- lows: Columbus, Ohio, January 10, 1894. John Nugent, Esq., President Miners’ Union, State of Ohio. Dear Sir: In compliance with the request of the miners this morning for a statement of the prices paid in the Pitts- burg coal fields that are competitive with ours, we herewith append the following : The committee that made the investigation state that the Youghiogheny River Gas Coal Company, Robbins, Taylor, Pacific and Scott Haven miners are paid 65 cents ; Ella Coal Company, Youghiogheny Gas Coal Company, Moon’s Coal Company, are also paying 65 cents; Osborn, Sager Company, Morgan, Moore and Bane are paying 50 cents; Port Royal are paying 45 cents; Watson Coal Company, Alexander Black Coal Company and mines on the Wheeling division of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad are paying 60 cents; New York Ohio Special Convention, January, 1894 307 and Cleveland Gas Coal Company are paying 59 cents; Char- leroi Coal Company, Blythe Coal Company, Stockdale Com- pany, Allen Coal Company and California Coal Company are paying 53 cents; Fidelity Coal Company is paying 43 cents. The Third Pool miners, numbering about 5,000 men and 27 operators, have recently accepted 59 cents; thus making the majority of the miners and operators operating on a basis of 60 cents and less. The Port Royal Coal Company are paying 26 cents for loading and drilling coal after the machines in rooms, and in entries they pay 37 cents. This includes taking down draw slate and ditching the entries. James W. Ellsworth and Company, the Youghiogheny Gas Coal Company and the Ella Coal Company are paying 30 cents for loading and drilling after the machines in rooms, and in entries they are paying 44 cents for loading and drilling. This includes taking down draw slate and ditching the entries. W. P. Rend is paying 321/2 cents for loading and drilling in rooms after the machines and 321/2 cents in entries. He pays in addition to the 32i/2 cents in entries, 70 cents per yard. This 70 cents is divided, the loader getting 32yo cents and the cutter 371/2 cents per yard. Break-throughs in entries paid the same as entries. Break- throughs between rooms nothing extra, and nothing is paid for opening rooms. In machine mines $1.50 is paid in two instances, and $1 in two instances, to pick men for making a cut of sufficient depth to enable the machines to get to work in the necks of the rooms. There is nothing paid for room turning in either machine or pick mines. Entry work in pick mines runs from 75 cents to 85 cents per yard. The Youghiogheny River Gas Coal Company, Robbins, Taylor, Pacific and Scott Haven mines pay 30 cents for break- throughs and entries ; Moons Run Coal Company pays 45 cents for break-throughs in entries; New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Company pays 40 cents for break-throughs in entries. Nothing extra is paid by any of the others. Drivers are paid from $1.35 to $1.90, the average probably being about $1.75. The committee state that it requires a superior class of men to do this work in these mines on account of the greater difficulties encountered. Therefore the reason for the ap- parent good wages they receive. Trappers receive from 50 to 75 cents per day. Track men from $1.35 to $2.00 per day; inside labor from $1.35 to $1.90 per day; dumpers from $1.25 to $1.50 per day; trimmers from $1.25 to $1.55 per day; blacksmiths from $1.75 to $2.75 per day; general outside labor from $1.20 to $1.50 per day. Cutting by the Jeffrey 308 United Mine Workers of America machines is paid for at the rate of 8 cents in rooms, and 11 cents in entries at three mines and in the Port Royal mine it is paid for at the rate of 7 cents in rooms and 10 cents in entries. At Mr. Rend’s mine he pays 13 cents in rooms and 13 cents in entries for cutting by the Harrison m.achines, the compensation being equalized in entries as above. The committee also state that the rooms are 21 feet wide and that the cutters cannot make more than half the coal per day that they do in the Hocking Valley. The firemen at all of the mines with one exception receive $1.35 per day. Ten hours constitute a day’s work and no half holidays on Saturdays. This gives the Pittsburg fields 10 per cent over the Hocking Valley in the cost of day labor. We respectfully submit that all these matters be taken into due consideration in fixing a competitive basis for us to work upon. No half-way or compromise measures should be in- dulged in, as it will take low prices, hard work and full hours to enable us to regain our lost trade. Early action should be taken. Yours very truly, H. D. Turney, R. H. Johnson, Thomas Johnson, J. S. Morton, I Committee. After Mr. Morton had finished reading the foregoing statement, he reviewed in a more detailed way the effect on particular markets of the Pittsburg coal. Mr. Turney and T. H. Johnson of the Hocking Coal and Iron Company, spoke in a similar strain. After a number of questions by various delegates had been answered by the operators they retired. A committee on resolutions was appointed as follows: William Haskins, Dennis Moylan, W. L. Davis, W. Phillips, W. Tannahill, Jonathan Todd, Fred Dilcher, Ed Thomas, H. Lewis, A. A. Adams, A. L. Lucas, John Philipson, J. J. Eddy, Thomas Miller, W. E. Clark. AFTERNOON SESSION. The chair declared the first thing before this convention was the report of the committee on resolutions : Resolved, That this convention recommend that we meet Pennsylvania with competitive prices. Ohio Miners’ Convention, February, 1894 309 Discussion was again continued in which a great number of delegates participated. A motion to adjourn till 9 a. m. was adopted. THURSDAY MORNING. Resolved, That we, the delegates, submit the following to our constituents, viz.. Are you in favor of holding present rates or do you favor the maintenance of 9 cent differential between us and Pennsylvania? The result to be returned not later than the 20th to Secretary Pearce, Corning, Ohio, and one miner from each sub-district be selected to find and re- turn results and act accordingly. The following delegates were chosen to represent the re- spective sub-districts : Sub-District No. 1, Ed Thomas, Nelsonville, Ohio. Sub-District No. Sub-District No. Sub-District No. 6, Sub-District No. 7, Sub-District No. 8, Sub-District No. 9, 2, J. J. Eddy, Shawnee. 3, Henry Mullen, North Lawrence. Sub-District No. 4, W. L. Davis, Dell Roy. Sub-District No. 5, H. T. Blake, Philo. Thomas Miller, Bellaire. E. E. Burley, Wellston. Michael Welch, Corning. A. A. Adams, Jacksonville. Sub-District No. 10, J. Donahue, Buffalo. Machine district — Fred Dilcher, Buchtel. Resolved, That the expenses of the delegates be paid from the district treasury. Adopted. Resolved, That this and other similar cases be referred to the executive board. Adopted. Resolved, That we adjourn sine die. John Nugent, President. W. C. Pearce, Secretary. OHIO STATE CONVENTION. On February 9, 1894, the Ohio miners held a state conven- tion at Columbus, Ohio, for the purpose of discussing the de- pressed condition of the coal trade and advisability of holding a joint meeting with coal operators to consider the reduced prices proposed by them on prevailing scale rates. The convention was called to order by John Nugent, dis- trict president, with W. C. Pearce acting as secretary. 310 United Mine Workers of America The following delegates were reported entitled to seats by the committee on credentials: Elmer Lewis, Frank Gitter, John Fahy, Ed Thomas, John Stitt, John Lenox, Alex John- son, T. J. Healy, Frank McCraner, John Blower, George Gully, Joseph Sanderson, Fred Weymuller, G. L. Steinrod, J. E. Mason, J. W. McDaniel, S. H. Penrod, W. H. Crawford, F. Christian, Ed Call, J. H. Taylor, John Maruney, James Mur- ray, W. Wells, J. Mclnerny, J. Romine, J. J. Eddy, George Scott, R. L. Davis, Moore, Thomas McGough, G. A. McMillen, C. H. Smith, R. Delbridge, George Williams, J. R. Hard- grave, J. Todd, D. J. Herbest, Harvey Phelps, Thomas Mc- Cray, William Swires, W. C. Brown, William Green, Ed James, Sam Hanley, H. A. Banning, L. Wright, T. J. Martin, A. J. Carr, Nat Skiles, C. Vicker, C. Gibbs, Levi Nutter, A. Anderson, I. W. France, T. E. Davis, Even Williams, Paul Coleman, James Born, John Ready, S. S. Gross, M. N. Scott, D. C. Jones, and Louis Hiber. After the report had been received and acted upon, the necessary committees were appointed and the convention got down to business in a way that was commendable, taking into consideration the gloomy aspect of affairs that confronted the delegates present. Each delegate expressed the views of his constituents and while the general feeling was inclined to meet the situation and grant a very liberal reduction on existing wages, the miners were not prepared to concede what they considered exorbitant demands made by the operators. After three days’ deliberation on the part of the miners, in- cluding Sunday, and a continuation of the controversy between operators J. H. Morton, R. A. Johnson, W. S. Courtwright, Thomas Johnson and H. D. Turney and the miners Monday and Tuesday, District President Nugent read the following ultimatum : Resolved, That we select a committee to draft resolutions to be presented to the operators as our ultimatum, who form- ulated the following which was adopted and handed to the operators by another committee appointed for the purpose ; Whereas, We, the representatives of the Hocking Valley miners, having agreed to accept a reduction of 20 cents per ton in the price of pick mining, and a corresponding reduction Ohio Joint Wage Scales Presented 311 (according to agreements existing between operators and miners) in day labor, entry work and break-throughs, and Whereas, We also agreed to accept a reduction in all branches of machine mining, corresponding with the reduc- tion in pick mining, and in line with joint agreements be- tween machine miners and operators, and. Whereas, The operators have refused to accept the reduc- tions named, and deliberately ignored contracts between them and their employes, while insisting upon greater concessions from them, 1. Resolved, That in the event of operators refusing to pay for work performed in machine and pick mines, according to the reduced schedule of prices presented by us, we declare that all contracts between miners and operators of the Hock- ing Valley, covering all branches of mine labor, are hereby abrogated and we hold ourselves ready to work upon such terms as we are able to enforce from time to time. 2. Resolved, That all mines are free to resume work, on and after the 16th, upon the schedule of prices adopted by us. The following is the schedule of prices approved by us for machine and pick mine work : Pick Mining. Pick mining, screened coal per ton Pick mining, run of mine per ton Room turning Break-throughs in rooms 50 cents per yard less than dry entries, viz. Tracklayers, per day Trappers $0.50 .35 5-7 2.50 .75 1.75 .75 Drivers 1.50 Inside day labor 1.50 Dumpers and trimmers 1.50 Outside day labor, not less than ; 1.25 Fireman 1.50 Pumpers, not less than $30.00 per month 30.00 Entry per yard, dry entry 1.25 Break-throughs in entries Entry price Slack haulers 1.40 Machine Mining. Loading in rooms, per ton .25 Loading and drilling, rooms, per ton .28 Loading in entries, per ton .31 1-4 Loading and drilling, entries, per ton .34 1-4 Double shift and wet entries Paid extra Cutting by Lechner machine: Hocking Valley, rooms, per ton .07 Hocking Valley, entries, per ton - .10 Cutting by Harrison machine: Hocking Valley, rooms, per ton .11 1-2 Hocking Valley, entries, per ton .12 1-2 312 United Mine Workers of America Cutting by Lechner machine ; Sunday Creek, rooms, per ton .08 Sunday Creek, entries, per ton .11 Cutting by Harrison machine: Sunday Creek, rooms, per ton .12 1-2 Sunday Creek, entries, per ton .14 Drilling by machine, per ton .01 1-2 Machine hauler, per day 1.50 Room turning — Machine entry price for cutter and loader. Break-throughs between entries to be paid entry price. Break-throughs between rooms — loading .29 2-7 Break-throughs between rooms — loading and drillingl .32 2-7 On Wednesday morning a new schedule of prices was pre- sented by the operators as follows : Pick mining, per ton Track layers, per liour Drivers, per hour Inside day labor, per hour Dumpers, per hour Trimmers, per hour Outside day labor, per hour Trappers, per hour Engineers Firemen Pumpers, per hour Teamsters, per hour Slack haulers, per hour Water bailers, per hour Room turning (pick mine) Break-throughs between rooms (pick mines) Entry work (pick mines) per yard Break-throughs in entries in pick mines Machine Mining. Cutting by Lechner machine, rooms Cutting by Lechner machine, entries Cutting bj' Harrison machine, rooms Cutting by Harrison macliine, entries Break-throughs between entries — Entry prices. Nothing extra for break-throughs between rooms. Loading in rooms Loading and drilling in rooms Loading in entries . Loading and drilling in entries Drilling by machines Loader, turning a room Cutter, turning a room Machine hauler, per hour .50 .16 4-9 .16 2-3 .16 2-3 .16 2-3 .16 2-3 .13 8-9 .07 2-9 Special contract 1.50 .12 2-9 to .13 8-9 .13 1-3 .11 1-9 to .14 4-9 .16 2-3 1.75 Nothing 1.00 Entry price .05 3-4 .07 1-2 .08 9-10 .09 5-10 .25 .27 .30 .32 .01 1-2 1.00 .50 .16 2-3 After the presentation of the operators’ scale of prices, the already impatient miners became almost furious when the unusual reduction the scale called for was figured out. Even the cool temperament of the miners’ national president waxed warm and became wrathy at the absurd proposition made. Special Con\^ntion District 11, 1894 313 The climax having been reached, John McBride said: “Everything had been done that could be honorably done by them to make a peaceful settlement but they had failed owing to the unreasonable stand taken by some of the operators and advised that the miners’ scale presented to the operators be reaffirmed and adhered to by the miners.” A motion was put to that effect and carried unanimously. McBride further stated “that all places agreeing to the scale should go to work, but those being forced to accept different conditions should report the same to the district officers. The convention then adjourned sine die. SPECIAL CONVENTION OF DISTRICT NO. 11. The special convention of District No. 11, United Mine Workers of America, called to meet in the city of Terre Haute, Indiana, February 28, 1894, was by a vote of the convention made our fifth regular annual meeting. The convention was called to order at 10:15 a. rn., by Joseph Dunkerly, who im- mediately appointed the following committee on credentials: Frank Lockhart, Linton; William Van Horn, Washington; J. E. Griffiths, Dugger; Eugene Merrill, Clinton; and James White of Coal Bluff. Committee on Credentials recommended the following delegates entitled to seats : James Gallagher, Eugene Merrill, John Mooney, H. L. James, Dan Llewellyn, William Gost, T. J. Roberts, Shannon, D. C. Adams, James White, John H. Crabb, J. S. Newport, John Kelly, Frank Lockhart, F. Thorp, D. E. Qualls, H. P. Dennis, H. Wallace, W. D. Van Horn, M. Gates, I. N. Cassady, Ed Stewart, John 0. Laughlin, F. C. Cooper, J. E. Griffiths. President Dunkerly explained that the object of the con- vention was to consider the question of a reduction of 20 cents per ton in mining rates. The delegates present being called upon to express their views on the situation were generally speaking opposed to the reduced rate proposed. It was re- solved to invite the operators to a joint meeting after which the usual committees were appointed by the president, and a recess taken to allow them an opportunity to work. 314 United Mine Workers of America At 3 :30 p. m. the operators’ executive committee was pre- sented to the delegates, and Mr. J. S. Talley explained further the cause leading up to their asking for a reduction. Ques- tions were asked by several of the delegates and answered by the operators. At 4:10 p. m. the operators retired. The operators left the impressions that any reduction less than that accepted by the Ohio miners would be but little if any use to them. The committee on order of business then reported and re- port was adopted. It was then moved that we do not accept any reduction. Motion was still under discussion when the hour for adjourn- ment arrived. The convention then adjourned. MARCH 1, 1894. Convention called to order promptly at 8 :30 a. m., by President Dunkerly. The motion to accept no reduction was then taken up, and, after a lengthy discussion, participated in by nearly every delegate in the hall, the following was the result of the vote : To maintain our present price, 29 ; opposed 19. It was then moved. That a committee of three be appointed to notify the operators of the decision of the convention. Committee: Brothers Newport, Van Horn and Merrill. Committee on finance then reported as follows : FINANCIAL REPORT FOR YEAR COMMENCING MARCH 17, 1893, AND ENDING FEBRUARY 28, 1894. Amount in treasury jMardi 17, 1894 $371.35 Receipts L. U. L. A. 1 _ _ $15.00 430 $110.00 9.4 16.00 156 4.5.00 IP 10 00 971 2.00 155 5.00 3,890 71.20 fi9 90.00 499 68.30 33 _ - 20.00 1813 10.80 62 25.20 9589 10.50 31 145.00 1571 2.52 ISl 4.10 74 12.30 .36 50 1436 . 65.50 30 110 00 318 6.00 60 3.00 9728 62.00 955 54.30 31 66 - _ 38.70 24 _ _ _ 132.80 214 3.S0 Special Convention District 11, 1894 315 L. u. 130 $135.40 33 26.70 433 181.05 414 60.90 268 56.00 56 39.90 42 55.95 119 16.00 1 78.10 190 83.00 135 4.50 520 5.10 510 2.70 L. A. 3088 $25.00 175 7.00 378 25.50 2768 14.10 430 10.00 422 15.00 Organizers Fees 42.40 Supplies 1.50 Refunded 3.30 Total receipts $2,366.87 $420.00 172.95 270.00 62.62 690.00 120.30 24.55 42.65 39.30 54.15 28.25 45.00 49.05 6.35 85.00 Disbursements. President Comesky, salary for seven months President Comesky, traveling expenses President Dunkerly, salary for four and a half months President Dunkerly, traveling expenses , Secretary Kennedy, salary for eleven and a half montlis Secretary Kennedy, traveling expenses J. Dunkerly, vice-president and member of board John E. Griffiths, services on executive board W. J. Wintei-bottom, services on executive board T. G. Morgan, services on executive board and auditing committee Simon Scratcher, services on executive board Postage stamps Hall rent, printing, stationery and miscellaneous items Telegrams To Silverwood strike Total expenditures $2,110.17 Recapitulation. Total receipts $2,366.87 Total expenditures 2,110.17 Balance in treasury March 1, 1894 $256.70 After the finance committee had reported at the morning session, on reassembling in the afternoon several resolutions were introduced among which was a change in the constitu- tion to reduce the secretary-treasurer’s salary to $25 per month that was defeated. The conferring of more power on the vice-president, making Section 1 of Article 6 read $50 instead of $60, and the changing of Section 2 of Article 6 to read $50 instead of $60 was agreed to, and the convention adjourned. On Friday morning, March 2, officers were elected as fol- lows : President or Master Workman, Joseph Dunkerly ; Vice- President or Worthy Foreman, George W. Purcell; John H. Kennedy, Secretary-Treasurer. Members of the district ex- 316 United Mine Workers of America ecutive board: John E, Griffiths, T. G. Morgan, Daniel Llewellyn, and I. W. Cassady. The convention then adjourned sine die. SPECIAL CONVENTION DISTRICT 11. On March 14, 1894, a special convention of Indiana miners was held at Terre Haute. The convention was called to order by Joseph Dunkerly, president, and the committee on cre- dentials appointed reported about 25 delegates entitled to seats. The proposed reduction on mining prices was con- sidered at great length. National Vice-President Penna and Secretary McBryde were present, and on invitation reviewed the situation in the Pittsburg and other districts of the competitive field. The delegates were confronted with a serious condition of affairs in the Clinton field owing to a lack of work there, and the situation in other parts of the state was such as to make it impossible for other miners to render the necessary aid of which the Clinton miners were in need. A resolution to accept 10 cents per ton reduction failed to meet a favorable response and after further discussion on the situation in general, it was resolved, by a substitute offered, that the Clinton men be granted the privilege of going to work under the best terms possible. And the convention adjourned. CHAPTER XVI. FIFTH ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA. Columbus, Ohio, Tuesday, April 10, 1894. Convention called to order by President McBride. W. C. Pearce and J. H. Kennedy were appointed assistant secretaries. Report of the Committee on Credentials : District 2. — Thos. A. Bradley, Thos. R. Davis, Thos. Butler, Thos. F. Reagan, Charles Wolcott, Louis Goaziou, Wm. Joyce, Emil Seckenger, John Crocker, John Robinson, Wm. Lockyer, Joseph Franklin, Patrick Gilday, Thos. Allison. Dist. 3. — W. B, Wilson, Jas. Sweeney. Dist. 5 . — Patrick McBryde, H. Bellingham, Pat Murray, Pat Hines, M. Anderson, John A. Cairns, John Callihan, Richard Gibbs, Robt. Watchorn, Chas. P. Byrne, C. March- bank, P. Dolan, Chas. E. Shaw. Grove City, Pa., District . — Joseph Allen, J. A. Crawford. Dist. 6. — H. A. Banning, James Hardy, P. Smith, Harvey Phelps, C. A. Robbins, John Suffill, W. H. Crawford, Thomas McCray, Michael Collins, John Evans, Thomas Lawson, S. Rhoads, Wm. Phillips, John Fahy, Jacob Collins, John Holli- day, Guard Cady, Edmund Thomas, Joseph Richards, M. J. Beatty, George Gulley, D. J. Jones, E. W. Lewis, Levi Nutter, Gwilym Savage, T. E. Fitzgerald, John James, George Wil- liams, Chris Horning, H. Shovers, Ervin Nanna, John Mason, J. R. Hardgrove, John Spriggs, Cameron Miller, Henry Evans, John W. Summers, J. W. Patterson, John Nugent, David Mason, Alex. Johnson, Jonathan Todd, W. J. Burns, L. Wright, T. W. Davis, A. J. Carr, C. P. Ray, I. W. France, Samuel Wilson, C. C. Cheney, F. M. Tollett, L. Bateman, C. Vickers, Wm. Applegarth, T. T. O’Malley, Alex Gordon, W. E. Mc- Clelland, R. L. Davis, Samuel Morris, Owen Nelson, Nat Skiels, J. C. Duncan, James Pritchard, Wm. DeVore, Ed Davis, George Frank, Henry Black, Asa Robinson, Charles Call, Wm. Harrop, Wm. Clark, John Meiser. ( 317 ) 318 United Mine Workers of America Dist. 11. — J. H. Kennedy, John D. Price, Joseph Dunkerly, Jas Smith, Tobias Roberts, Frank Lockhart, George Lowe, M. Maher, D. E. Qualls, S. R. Thorp, John Kane, W. D. Van Vorn, J. S. Newport. Dist. 12. — J. A. Crawford, W. J. Guyman, J. M. Murray, Nelson Spenny. Dist. lU- — H. W. Pemberton, T. B. McGregor. Dist. 17. — James Munley, Peter Owen, Thos. Farry. Dist. 19.— W. C. Webb, W. W. Ball. Dist. 22. — J. D. Fisher. Moved that part of the report on which the committee agreed be accepted. Adopted. The chair appointed the following committees: On Distribution — Wm. Van Horn, Indiana; Richard Gibbs, Louis Goaziou, Pennsylvania; C. P. Ray, Ohio. On Co7istitutio7i — T. A. Bradley, Pennsylvania; Joseph Dunkerly, Indiana; John A. Cairns, Pennsylvania; Thomas Farry, West Virginia; Cameron Miller, Ohio. 071 Resolutions — Thomas W. Davis, Ohio; James Sweeney, Pennsylvania; J. A. Crawford, Illinois; A. A. Adams, Ohio; W. C. Webb, Kentucky. On Mileage — T. R. Davis, Pennsylvania ; John Fahy, Ohio. On Order of Business — W. H. Crawford, Ohio; J. S. New- port, Indiana; W. J. Guyman, Illinois; J. D. Fisher, Ohio; John Robinson, Pennsylvania. The convention took a recess to await the report of the committee on order of business. Report of committee on rules and order of business : RULES. 1. Hours of convention shall be from 8 a. m., with recess from 12 to 1 :30 p. m., and adjourn at 5 p. m. 2. Roll call to take place at each morning session. 3. The debate by any delegate to be limited to five min- utes on any one subject except by consent of convention, and no delegate to speak more than once on the same subject, unless to explain and by consent of the chair. 4. That in all matters of dispute Cushing’s Manual shall be the guide. Fifth Annual Convention, 1894 319 Moved that the report of the committee be adopted. Car- ried. Committee on credentials finished their report. m’bride’s address. The following is the address of President John McBride to the annual national convention at Columbus, Ohio, April 10, 1894 : Representatives of the Mine Workers of America. Gentlemen: In compliance with the constitution you are assembled in this your fifth annual convention. When we last met we were as full of hope and expectancy as the future appeared bright with promise and prosperity to our organization in particular, to the mining craft and the industrial interests of the country in general ; but, alas, we have, in one short year, been forcibly reminded of the old saying that “There’s many a slip “Twixt the cup and the lip.” And the promised prosperity to our craft and country have alike “gone glimmering” and both are now clouded with un- certainty and fear as to what the future holds in store for us in an industrial way. It is not my purpose, however, to philosophize, but rather to review the past and deal with the present affairs of our organization, and to suggest, from the lessons which experi- ence has taught us, something which may assist you in your work of mapping out a policy to govern and guide your organ- ization during the coming year along such lines as are cal- culated to subserve the best interests for which your national organization was created and is being maintained. MINING RATES. Your last annual convention resolved to demand an in- crease of 5 cents per ton upon screened coal and the equivalent of 5 cents per ton on run of mine coal. In my address to that convention I clearly pointed out the improved condition of the coal trade as compared to the year previous, and recommended the demanding of higher rates for mining. I also advised that in making a demand for higher wages, your demand should be based not alone upon improved market conditions and your desires, but upon your ability to act in concert and by the force of concerted action force such a recognitioh of your claims as they merited and 320 United Mine Workers of America secure concessions in line with your rights should they be denied you by employers. The condition of markets together with the increased sell- ing price of coal warranted your demanding better rates, and events have clearly demonstrated the necessity, as well as the wisdom, of my advice to consider the ability of your own forces as the most potent factor to which cognizance should be given in the matter of adjusting wages. Had the securing of higher wages depended upon market conditions and logical argument, your officials could easily and readily have accomplished the work, but when reason proved ineffectual, and a cessation of work became necessary to achieve success in our efforts, the responsibilities passed from the hands of your officials to your own, and through lack of organization and ability to act in concert, as evidenced in the Pittsburg and West Virginia districts, you proved your- selves unequal to the task, and the movement for higher wages, although justified by a properous condition of the coal trade and warranted by the small earnings of mine workers, through the negligence and almost criminal indifference of our craftsmen in several districts passed into history as a complete failure. Had the delegates to our last annual convention been able to read the future, and thus learn what was ahead of us, there would have been less disappointment over the failure to ad- vance prices, and the financial panic and industrial crisis which has since shaken our country from center to circum- ference, upset calculations, destroyed systems, and reduced the wages of labor’s best organized forces in all parts of the country and in all occupations, would have found us better prepared to successfully resist the encroachments made upon us by reason of insane competition that resulted in reducing mining rates far below a living standard. There is a limit to human endurance and you have reached that limit. The price paid for mining must go no lower, but it is ab- solutely necessary for both life and comfort, and you are entitled to both, that the price should go higher, and that soon. To advance wages now demands both concerted and de- termined action on your part, because market prices and con- ditions are unstable and variable and the operators of mines are so badly demoralized that many of them look to us for such action as will save them from themselves and place the coal producing industry upon a higher, firmer and better basis, a basis that will do no injustice to purchasers and consumers of coal, but give to mine workers a decent living and allow fair profits upon capital invested in mine^ and mining. Fifth Annual Convention, 1894 321 No country in the world has furnished as good and as cheap fuel as the coal consumers of the United States have received, and the cutting of selling and mining rates was at no time due to a demand, on part of consumers, for cheaper coal, but it was due to a selfish desire on part of certain opera- tors and miners to secure trade and work at the expense of neighbors and competitors regardless of consequences to the coal trade or the men engaged in it. When your national executive board advised that local efforts cease and that you consider the question of entering into a general movement to advance wages they recognized that upon such a movement depended your only hope of suc- cess. Before you determine to inaugurate a general strike for higher wages you should provide a method for overcoming the difficulties which will be met with at the outstart, among which will be the willingness of many operators to pay the price demanded by you. Under ordinary circumstances, and old-time methods, those who received the price demanded would be authorized to work, but circumstances and condi- tions are not of the ordinary character, and old time methods will not win in a strike of such magnitude and importance as the one contemplated. It will readily be admitted that the interests of the whole is greater than any one part of our craft, and I wish to im- press upon your minds the fact that the interests involved in the fixing of prices 'for a competitive field, or for all fields, should receive greater consideration at your hands than should be given to any individual or local interest. In my judgment, work should not be authorized until you have secured, or failed to secure, a joint meeting with mine operators in the several competitive districts and reached a satisfactory settlement, or until operators whose mines pro- duce the major portion of the coal tonnage in any one com- petitive field have granted your price. THE ORDER OF THE KNIGHTS OF LABOR. Last year I submitted the correspondence which passed between General Master Workman Powderly and myself, relative to the charges made against our organization at the St. Louis General Assembly. In the settlement of that con- troversy, which ended in our full and complete vindication, Mr. Powderly promised a retraction as broad and public as the charges made by him. In the general assembly held in Philadelphia, Pennsyl- vania, in November last, Mr. Powderly, in his annual address, used the following language : “For very good reasons which may not be necessary to 322 United Mine Workers of America explain, no mention was made in the Journal of Knights of Labor of the withdrawal of the statement made to the last general assembly. Here and now, in the presence of the representatives of the whole order and particularly those representing National Trades Assembly 135, I desire to with- draw the statement and recommendation made to the St. Louis session, and in doing so invite the most careful scrutiny of my act of a year ago and the action taken later on in arriving at a settlement. That there may be no misunderstanding here- after you should carefully examine every document now in possession of the general secretary -treasurer. Your general master workman is convinced that under the peculiar condi- tions which surround the miners of America they cannot or- ganize as others do, and that liberal allowances must be made for such departure from the strict letter of the laws as they may by force of circumstances have to take. It is the ex- perience of your general master workman that whenever a call is issued to the order for action in line with the preamble of the order, or any of its parts, no body of men respond more cheerfully or promptly than the mining fraternity.” This should remove every doubt as to the loyalty of our members to their fraternal obligations. If our organization had received, was receiving ; or is likely to receive proper treatment from the general office of the Knights of Labor, I would gladly have dropped the whole subject, but the actions of General Secretary-Treasurer John W. Hayes, indicates that he is now and always was an im- placable and unscrupulous enemy of the United l\Iine Workers and their interests. Prior to the consolidation of the two organized bodies which now constitute the United Mine Workers of America, Mr. Hayes opposed the movement unless it could be so directed as to place all members under the control of the Knights of Labor, and with that end in view he prostituted his high and honorable office to the work of overriding the constitutional provisions of the order, by artificially increasing the member- ship of National Trades Assembly 135, and to make his de- spicable scheme appear plausible to the outside world, and to the members of the order he was obligated to serve honestly, he gave more representatives to the general assembly from National Trade Assembly 135, than it was entitled to, and in doing so this not only took advantage of other districts in the order, but compelled members of the order at large to pay the expense of more delegates from National Trades Assembly 135, to the Atlanta, Georgia, session of the General Assembly, than the membership or constitution allowed. From letters written by John W. Hayes to Robert Watch- Fifth Annual Proceedings, 1894 323 orn, which are on file in our national office, the unscrupulous and treacherous work of the former is clearly evidenced. On January 15, 1890, Hayes wrote : “My dear Bob: I must say that I cannot see any great benefit from the joining of forces, etc. I have carefully read the article which appears in our journal of today, and still I am not satisfied.” Again on the same date: “My Dear Bob: The reason I did not write or telegraph congratulations was that I had no information as to the state of affairs. I did not care to congratulate an association that I was afraid was being scooped in.” At the St. Louis General Assembly Secretary Hayes as- serted that at the time of the consolidation the National Trades Assembly 135 had a membership of 21,000, while the Progressive Union had less than half that number, but that by reason of the discrimination against the Knights by the officers of the United Mine Workers, the membership had been reversed. In making this statement John W. Hayes knowingly and deliberately lied, as his own records and those of National Trades Assembly 135 will prove; but let him con- vict himself. On October 28, 1899, less than four months be- fore the consolidation was effected, he wrote : “Robert Watchorn : “Dear Sir and Brother — Your National Trades Assembly is only entitled to three delegates; you will be credited with about 10,000 members, which is 500 too little for four dele- gates.” To send only three delegates to the General Assembly would be to expose the weakness of the National Trades As- sembly 135 membership and give some advantages to the Na- tional Progessive Union, and to prevent this from being done the constitution of the order was ignored and the number of delegates from the National Trades Assembly to the General Assembly was increased from three to seven. On December 11, 1899, shortly after the General Assembly adjourned, Hayes wrote: “My Dear Bob — Do you know that your seven delegate racket has skinned us out of $88 — on mileage, you know. Can’t we get up some sort of a scheme to make 135 give it back to us?” There are other letters in my possession which prove the duplicity of Mr. Hayes in his official dealings, but instead of 324 United Mine Workers of America producing them here, I call your attention to some of his more recent acts. The constitution of the Knights requires that the general secretary-treasurer shall furnish a quarterly state- ment to the secretary of each National Trade Assembly of the local assemblies in good and bad standing, but such a state- ment has never been sent by General Secretary Hayes to our National Trades Assembly since my election as its master workman in February, 1892, although repeatedly requested by our secretary to do so. That his refusal to comply with constitutional provisions in this particular has injured our organization is proven by Sec- retary Hayes himself. On October 6, 1892, he wrote Secre- tary McBryde that, “There is evidently a very large error either on the part of locals reporting to you or of those report- ing to this office. Your statement shows a total of 3,900, while my reports show a membership of 6,500.” This proves that 2,600 more members were held in good standing and credited to our National Trades Assembly than we had upon our books. In November last our books showed that we had 4,415 members in good standing in our National Trades Assembly, and this would only have allowed one dele- gate to the General Assembly, but we sent two, and the finance committee in making their report credited us with being en- titled to two, and thus it was again evidenced that we were credited with a membership greater than paid to us. The only way to correct this abuse is by obtaining from the general secretary of the Knights the statement which the laws of the order require him to make, but we have no power to compel him to discharge his duties, and so long as he re- fuses to perform them, and the general executive board fails to compel him to do so, we must either submit to the injustices practiced upon us or stop the farce by decided action on part of our own members. There are many other things that have been done through the general office of the Knights of Labor to annoy, harass and injure our organization, but I shall not weary you with an account of them now, because you have enough here to allow you to judge of the manner in which you have been wronged by the disreputable methods of John W. Hayes, who disgraces the position of general secretary-treasurer of the Knights of Labor. While the treatment we have received through the general office of the Knights of Labor has been unsatisfactory and unjust, the members of our local assemblies and the officers of our national and district organizations have been loyal and true to their obligations to the order, and there is very little, if any, ill feeling or dissatisfaction existing as between the President McBride’s Admonition 325 members of our local unions and assemblies; indeed, there is a better fraternal feeling and more harmony among our mem- bership than ever before, and I have no desire, neither have our members a desire, to condemn the order of the Knights for the shortcomings of an official, and I do not wish to be understood as making a declaration of war, or of seek- ing to influence you to do so, upon the order of the Knights of Labor, simply because I have pointed out these things which you should know so that there will be no misunderstanding on your part as to my position. Organization. The work of organization during the past year was con- ducted with vigor, but during the greater portion of the year the progress made was both slow and unsatisfactory. In the earlier part of the year our work was retarded by reason of the disappointment occasioned over the failure to obtain higher wages, and the difficulty met with in adjusting mining rates. These difficulties had hardly disappeared until the flnancial crisis spread ruin and disaster throughout the coun- try, and in our mining districts the failure to pay wages in cash upon regular day days, the closing of mines through in- ability of operators to secure money due upon coal sales, and the persistent effort to take advantage of the situation to re- duce wages, caused confusion in our ranks and rendered our work still more onerous. Oppression, low wages and hunger, aided and enforced by operators of mines have proved to be a more potent and ef- ficient power in the work of organizing than has the logic and eloquence of our official workers, and thousands of mine workers have been crowding into our organization within the past three months, and all are clamorous for speedy action to retrieve the ground lost by their former indifference and neg- lect. If the men now rushing into our organization will only profit by their recent experience and stay within our ranks it will require but little time to improve prices and ameliorate conditions. If this could be accomplished we would have rea- son to look back upon the hardships of the present as an epoch in the history of our craft when the darkest hour fore- shadowed the dawning of a brighter and more prosperous future. Abuse of Officials. I sometimes think that the person who originated the old saying that “the devil always finds work for idle hands to do,” must have been an official of some labor organization who tried to convey something connected with his experience with 326 United Mine Workers of America harping critics during a period of depressed trade and en- forced idleness. When trade is good and men are employed and prosperous, Mine Workers’ officials have a pleasant task to perform in dis- charging their duties, but in times like the present, and the recent past, they are compelled to do hard, disagreeable work and are subjected to an ordeal which tests their patience, and publicly measures their personal integrity and their ability and worth as leaders. Oppressed and suffering men naturally are discontented, suspicious and inclined to criticise and find fault with any- thing and everything related to their craft interests. It is at such times that men forget the causes which are responsible for their condition, and without giving a thought to sur- roundings, or taking into consideration their dependence upon craftsmen in competing fields, give vent to their desires, and with their judgment warped by suffering and prejudice and blinded by passion they enter into a wholesale denunciation of persons and things; and officials, no matter how honest, sincere or able they may be are made the victims of their craftsmen’s wrath and folly. I desire to emphasize the necessity of curbing this virulent tendency on part of our craftsmen, because I sincerely be- lieve that unless it be done your cause will be weakened by the driving of every honest, conscientious man from official position in your ranks. You can not afford to place a premium upon official in- sincerity and canting hypocrisy, but you can afford to have officials who will tell the truth and honestly advise, no matter how much the truth may hurt or how unpalatable the advice may be. Conclusion. There are several topics which I shall not treat on now, but will advise as they come before you during your deliber- ations, but before concluding I desire to express my personal gratification over the willingness expressed and the energy and ability displayed by every member of your national execu- tive board when called upon to do work assigned them during the most trying year of all my official life. Friendship and harmony prevailed at all times between myself and members of the board, and between the board members themselves, and for this and the many courteous acts of kindness, I desire, through you, to tender mj’ sincere thanks. John McBride. Fifth Annual Proceedings, 1894 327 Moved that the report be accepted and committee con- tinued. Adopted. Adjourned for dinner. AFTERNOON SESSION. The following telegrams were read and the president in- structed to make suitable replies : New York, April 9,1894. To P. McBryde, Clinton Building, Columbus Ohio: United States Senate is considering the Chinese treaty in executive session. It overrides and destroys protective fea- tures of Scott and Geary laws. Send protests to Senate against ratification and call on locals to take similar action. Prompt attention is essential. Samuel Gompers, President. New York, April 10, 1894. John McBride, President United Mine Workers of America : Convey to convention kindest and fraternal greetings, vfith sincere hope that the dark clouds are past and a brighter fu- ture in view. Samuel Gompers, Chris Evans. The report of the secretary-treasurer was then read. auditor’s report. We, the auditing committee, have examined the itemized accounts and books of the secretary-treasurer for the year ending March 31, 1894, and found them kept in a business- like manner and correct in every particular. All books and office accounts were placed before us for our inspection. Cash on hand March 31, 1893 $10,368.22 Tax 17,093.46 Supplies 706.01 Newspaper 2,655.75 Interest on sixty-day notes 5.40 From souvenir 100.00 Total income $30,928.84 Expenditures, salaries and expenses $18,457.66 Miscellaneous 6,876.35 Loss through failure Houtzdale bank 9.00 Through stoppage of Glouster bank 22.75 Cash on hand March 31, 1894 5,563.08 $30,928.84 Chas. Call, T. R. Davis, W. J. Guyman. 328 United Mine Workers of America Moved that the reports just read be received and become parts of the minutes. Adopted. A number of resolutions were read and ordered to be placed in the hands of the proper committees. John Meiser, Osnaburg was by vote given a voice and vote in the convention. Adjourned. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11. Convention called to order by President McBride. The reading of the minutes was, by motion, dispensed with. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS. Resolved, That this convention order a general suspension of work to take effect April 22, 1894. Moved to amend by striking out the 22 and insert the 16th of April. Moved, That during the debate we go into executive ses- sion. Agreed to. Resolved, That on and after Saturday noon, April 21, 1894, no coal shall be mined in that part of the United States and territories governed by our organization until such times as our general officers and national executive board shall order the miners to resume work. The previous question being moved it was carried by a vote of 55 to 44. The substitute was carried; Indiana delegates voting in the negative. This was done to show their willingness to carry out their present contract. When the decision was an- nounced an Indiana delegate, who had voted against the reso- lution, promptly moved to make the motion unanimous, which was done amidst the cheers of the delegates. Moved, That the president appoint a scale committee. Adopted. Resolved, That if the first general suspension of work fails to obtain a proper advance of mining rates throughout the competitive fields, that the national executive board be and is hereby empowered to call another suspension at any time dur- ing the present year that may by them be deemed best. Fifth Annual Proceedings, 1894 329 Adopted. The chair appointed the following committee on scale of prices: W. B. Wilson, Pennsylvania; M. Maher, Indiana; John Nugent, Ohio; Thomas Farry, West Virginia; W. C. Webb, Kentucky; Thomas McGregor, Missouri, Adjourned for dinner. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President McBride. Officers Elected. For President — John McBride. President McBride was then introduced and addressed the convention. Vice-President — P. H. Penna. A committee carried the little vice-president to the plat- form, who made one of his characteristic addresses. Secretary-Treasurer — Patrick McBryde. Secretary P. McBryde made a few remarks. THURSDAY, APRIL 12. Members of the Executive Board — John Fahy, Thomas A. Bradley, W. C. Webb, J. A. Crawford, Cameron Miller and W. B. Wilson. Report of Committee on Resolutions. Whereas, One of our craft has, by his studious efforts, raised himself up so that he is an honored attorney-at-law, and as there is a position within his reach to which he aspires, and believing he would bring respect to us as a craft; there- fore, be it Resolved, That we, the representatives of the United Mine Workers of America, do heartily indorse the Hon. Nial R. Hysell for the appointment of assistant district attorney for the United States, Southern Ohio District ; and be it further Resolved, That this resolution be engrossed, signed by the president and secretary, the seal of our organization attached to the same, and forwarded to the Hon. Harlan Cleveland, Cincinnati, Ohio, Concurred in by committee and the convention. Whereas, The United Mine Workers of America have es- 330 United Mine Workers of America tablished the United Mine Workers’ Journal by an expendi- ture of several hundred dollars, and Whereas, Only a minority of our members are supporting said Journal by personal subscription ; therefore, be it Resolved, That this convention deems it the duty of every member of the organization to become a subscriber, and help push the circulation among unorganized miners. Carried. Resolved, That the United Mine Workers of America in convention assembled, regret the actions of General Secretary Hayes in connection with the secret bands of our organization, as such actions tend to destroy the harmonious relations exist- ing. Concurred in. Whereas, The year we are now entering upon is one fraught with great possibilities to the mine workers of the country, either for advanced industrial and social conditions to be secured by an increased compensation for our labor, or it must witness a defeat, and a postponement of our most cherished aspirations, which will leave us in bondage to condi- tions not far removed from the most servile slavery in effect ; therefore, be it Resolved, That while we recognize the merits and the claims of many questions that might be presented to the con- vention for favorable action thereon and be a benefit to the craft if adopted, recognizing also the desires of the representa- tives to discharge fully the obligations placed upon them by their constituency, yet we would urge upon this convention, and upon the craft in general, the necessity of centralized concerted action to bring about a successful adoption of such measures as are already agreed upon, and we advise that our officers and members confine themselves to such methods and actions as will bring about that result regarding the work al- ready mapped out as a sufficient undertaking for the present year. Carried. Report of Committee on Scale. Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Convention: We, your committee on scale of wages beg leave to submit the following for your consideration : Resolved, That we declare it to be the purpose of the gen- eral suspension to restore the scale of prices for mining and Fifth Annual Proceedings, 1894 331 conditions of employment which prevailed at the beginning of the present year. Respectfully submitted, Thos. B. McGregor. Report of committee adopted. Report of Committee on Constitution. Be it Resolved, That the counties of Mercer, Butler, Beaver and Lawrence, in the State of Pennsylvania, be or- ganized into a district and given a number by this convention. Carried. Section 7, Article 6 — The national officers shall have power to change boundaries and jurisdiction of districts as the conditions may require between conventions. Concurred in. Section 8, Article 6 — Resolved, That this convention elect two auditors to examine the books of the national secretary quarterly and cause their report to be published in the United Mine Workers Journal, said auditors to hold no national or district offices. Adopted. Section 7, Article 6. — The national executive board shall have power to order a general suspension at any time during the year that they deem it necessary. Adopted. Whereas, Experience has demonstrated to the organizers of our craft that in mining camps composed largely of non- English speaking miners it is necessary, if we must organize them, that some new departure from former methods be re- sorted to, and Whereas, In Colorado one of our board members has ex- perimented with the group system of organization the same so far applied meeting all requirements as expected; there- fore, be it Resolved, That our incoming executive board be and are hereby empowered to draft rules and regulations formulating' a plan whereby the “Group System” can be perfected, main- tained and applied as a part of the United Mine Workers of America, in disorganized fields where conditions of our craft make it necessary that such means of organization be re- sorted to. During the discussion the hour for dinner arrived and the convention adjourned. 332 United Mine Workers of America AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President McBride. The delegates were paid railroad fare, after which the president called on William Howells to explain the group sys- tem of organization, on which a resolution was introduced in the morning session. After some remarks from Brother Howells and others the resolution was adopted. President McBride read the following communication : Convention Hall, Columbus, Ohio, April 12, 1894. To the United Mine Workers of America, in Convention As- sembled, Greeting: The Typographical Unions of Ohio, in convention assem- bled, send you their hearty greeting and wish you God-speed in your deliberations for the advancement of the cause dear to us all, and which binds us together by a bond of friendship and human brotherhood as strong and indissoluble as our cause is a just and noble one. Frank L. Rist, President, Theo. Damon, .Secretary. He informed the convention he had, in their name, made the following reply : Columbus, Ohio, April 12, 1894. Frank L. Rist, President ; Theodore Damon, Secretary : Gentlemen — Having received, through you, the fraternal greeting of the delegates now attending the convention of the Ohio Typographical Union, we are authorized by the repre- sentatives of the United Mine Workers of America, now in session, to say that we extend similar greetings to you and express the hope that ere long there will be a closer alliance between all organized forces when we may, by concerted ac- tion, secure relief from the evils now afflicting us through bad, social, industrial and governmental systems. By order of Convention. The action of the president was indorsed and the com- munication ordered to be placed on the minutes. Whereas, We believe that the interests of our organization can best be subserved and the purpose we seek to accomplish through a general suspension of mining more easily obtained by a full and complete observation of law, the maintenance of peace and the protection of property. District 5 Constitution, 1894 333 Resolved, That we pledge ourselves and call upon our mem- bers to enforce the suspension of mining by peaceful and law- abiding methods, and should it be necessary at any time we promise to voluntarily assist in the work of protecting life and property whenever threatened. Adopted. Whereas, We sincerely regret that the interests of our homes, our families, the coal trade and of the communities in which we live, have forced us to inaugurate a general sus- pension of mining, and cause, through it, additional hardships to be endured by thousands of partly employed and poorly paid laborers and place greater difficulties in the way of in- dustrial enterprises and of the business public. Resolved, That we hold ourselves ready to meet with the owners and operators of mines in each competitive district, for the purpose of adjusting mining rates upon a living basis and entering into annual agreements which will give stability to our trade and assure peace and tranquillity between em- ployers and employes in all mining communities. Adopted. Election of Auditors — The chair declared M. Ratchford and Charles Call elected auditors. Election of Delegates to the Federation of Labor — The chair declared the following delegates elected : John McBride, Patrick McBryde, P. H. Penna and John Nugent. Alternates — Thomas Butler, M. Ratchford, W. C. Pearce and Chas. Call. After some appropriate remarks by President McBride the convention adpourned sine die. CONSTITUTION OF DISTRICT 5, 1894. Article I — 'Name and Jurisdiction. This organization shall be known as District 5, United Mine Workers of America, and shall be composed of miners and mine laborers working in and about that portion of Penn- sylvania known as the Pittsburg district. Article II — Officers and Their Duties. Section 1. The officers of the district shall be one presi- dent, or master workman ; two vice-presidents, or worthy fore- men ; one financial secretary-treasurer and an executive board of twelve members, two of whom shall be the president and secretary-treasurer, who shall bo elected at each annual con- vention. 334 United Mine Workers of America Section 2. The president, or master workman, shall pre- side at all conventions of the district; he shall receive and answer all communications (except those relating to finance) ; he shall, with the consent of the executive board, fill by ap- pointment all vacancies occurring in the district offices, and in like manner he is empowered to suspend or remove any district officer for just or sufficient cause; he shall devote his time and attention to the interests of the district. Section 3. The first vice-president, or worthy foreman, shall perform the duties of the president, or master workman, in case of death or removal from office of that official. Section 4. The financial secretary-treasurer shall have charge of all books of the district office; he shall record pro- ceedings of all district conventions and of the meetings of the executive board; he shall receive and receipt for all moneys ; pay all current expenses ; he shall prepare and submit to the locals a quarterly report of all moneys received and dis- bursed, and perform such other duties as may be assigned him ; he shall give a bond of $1,000, to be approved by the ex- ecutive board, for the safe keeping of all moneys entrusted to him, and he shall not have more than $500 subject to his order at any one time. All other funds must be deposited by him subject to the order of the executive board. Section 5. The executive board shall constitute the dis- trict board of arbitration and conciliation, and shall execute the orders of district conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the workings of the district. The board shall be convened by the president or master work- man, or by the financial secretary-treasurer, at the request of five members of said board. Article III. Section 1. The revenue of this district shall be derived from local assemblies and local unions, which shall pay direct to the financial secretary-treasurer 8 cents per month per member. Section 2. The executive board shall have the power to reduce the per capita tax when they deem it advisable to do so. Artivle IV. Section 1. A man in good standing in either branch of the organization shall be eligible to hold office in the district, provided he has been a member of an affiliated local for six months prior to his election and becomes a member of both branches before qualifying for the office to which he has been elected. Section 2. The salaries of the president and financial sec- retary-treasurer shall be $50 per month and necessarj^ ex- Cleveland National Convention 335 penses; salary of executive board shall be $2.50 per day and necessary expenses when employed in the interest of the dis- trict. Article Y. Section 1. The nominations for district officials shall be forwarded to the secretary-treasurer at least one month be- fore the district annual convention, and the secretary-treas- urer shall send a list of said nominations to each local assem- bly and local union at least two weeks before said convention, and delegates shall come to the convention instructed to vote for candidates for the respective positions. Section 2. The election of district officers shall be by open ballot, and it shall require a majority of all votes cast to elect any district officer. Article VI. Section 1. The annual convention of this district shall be held on the second Tuesday in January of each year in the City of Pittsburg, Pa! Special conventions shall be called by the president or master workman when he thinks it necessary, or when so instructed by the executive board, or at the request of five locals. Section 2. Representatives to the district conventions from affiliated locals shall have one vote for fifty members or less, and one vote for each additional fifty members or ma- jority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than three votes. Section 3. No local assembly or local union shall be al- lowed representation in district conventions who have not complied with the constitution of the district. Article VII. No alterations or amendments shall be made to this con- stitution except by a two-thirds vote of all members present at a regular annual convention of the district. Joseph Nevins, Chairman Committee on Constitution. CLEVELAND CONVENTION. Cleveland, Ohio, May 14, 1894. When President McBride called the convention to order this morning there were found to be present 188 delegates, representing miners in central and western Pennsylvania, as well as the coke regions of that state, Maryland, West Vir- ginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Colorado and Indian Territory. 336 United Mine Workers of America After the convention was fairly organized, a discussion took place on the proper mode of procedure relative to pre- paring to meet operators tomorrow (Tuesday). It was finally agreed, by resolution, that one delegate from each district be selected to act on a preliminary scale committee to formulate for each district, and to unite as a whole, a scale, in accord- ance with the resolution passed at the late annual convention. It was decided that each district get together and select its own member of the committee, and report the same after con- vening in the afternoon. The convention then adjourned. At 2 p. m. President McBride called the convention to order, and several more delegates reported their presence to the secretary, making the number reach nearly 200 present at the afternoon session. President McBride suggested that the convention go into executive session, which, on motion, was adopted, and the reporters were asked to retire. John Nugent was appointed doorkeeper. Moved, That rules governing the late national convention be the rules of this one. Carried. The chair asked for the names of the members of the pre- liminary scale committee. The following were chosen as the committee: District 2, T. A. Bradley; District 5, John Cairns ; District 6, A. A. Adams ; District 7, M. P. Kane ; Dis- trict 11, P. H. Penna; District 12, J. A. Crawford; District 13, W. S. Scott; District 14, A. C. Lee; District 16, M. F. Flan- nagan ; District 17, T. Farry ; Wheeling Division, Jerry Meade ; District 19, W. C. Webb; Colorado, W. Howells; District 22, R. C. Yost; Alabama, Frank Fournier. After the above committee was confirmed, President John McBride addressed the convention, in part, as follows : Fellow miners : I feel like calling attention to the fact that the miners of this country are on strike. It has been discussed in the newspapers, and I presume you have gained the in- formation through that source that you are striking, although we sometimes refuse to be known as such in this movement, and term it a suspension to procure a more equitable and fair compensation for our labor, a fair wage and better conditions of life. You have heard it discussed by men in every walk of life, by outsiders as well as operators and the last reports are to the effect that we are desirous of ending it by a com- promise with your employers. I have been approached one Cleveland National Convention 337 hundred times by newspapers asking if we would compromise ; asking, “Do you intend to make any terms with the operators based on a compromise of the price asked for," and my reply, in every case, has been that I was not talking compromise and did not intend to; (Cheers) that we could not permit in- dividual or sectional interest to weigh with us in this matter, and that no compromise could be made on my part, or on the part of our officials, until such time as a convention of this kind so decided and agreed to change the demand made by the other convention which, in Columbus, had stated by reso- lution what it should be that we suspend for. I can not help but compliment you on the success met with in the stoppage by our craftsmen in such encouraging num- bers to secure living wages. I feel like congratulating you, not only because of the unanimity of this movement, but I feel as though you deserve to be congratulated because you have given the miners of this country what they have been clamor- ing for for years, namely, the opportunity of acting in concert, to prove their importance as factors in the industries of the nation, and to say with one voice that they are not willing to starve without a protest, for, whether you win or lose in this present movement, you will win in the next one, for with such a power as we hold in well disciplined movements of this kind, it is impossible that we shall be forced to con- tinue to accept the starvation wages at present obtained among the mining craft. I say to you this has been the one thing needed to give you confidence in yourselves, and to bring success to the mining communities, and if you show a disposition to refuse to dis- cuss local issues, remembering that the interests of the whole is greater than those of any single part — if you do this, you will either stand or fall together in one of the greatest move- ments ever experienced in the history of mining in this great land. There must be a determination to protect the interests of the miners of the Indian Territory just as much as those of Ohio or Pennsylvania, and we can’t do this if we stop to adjust local affairs, local grievances and abuses that have been accumulating for years. We must stand together in this struggle, and in every effort, regardless of creed, color or nationality, and every individual and every district must re- ceive fair play, nothing more, nothing less. Some may think that any kind of a settlement is better than none at all, but I say you must stand together, win or lose, as to disgust and embitter the half of our miners by an unsatisfactory and unfair settlement would be worse than anything that could be done, and would simply result in leav- ing you defenseless in the future. 338 United Mine Workers of America After continuing in this strain for some time, President McBride informed his audience that at the time the conven- tion was called he had good hopes for a better representation of operators than now seems likely to be present, for since that time the Pennsylvania and West Virginia operators have had a cat and dog fight among themselves, which, however, may not have been as real in its malice as it seemed. He, however, urged courtesy and candor in the joint meeting, stating that nothing was to be gained by acrimony and ex- tremist talk. At the close of his speech he received two con- gratulatory messages from the Knights of Labor and Laundry Workers of Cleveland, which he read. Moved, That the committee go to work and draft a scale. Carried. Moved, That we adjourn until tomorrow at 9 a. m. There being some time to spare just at this juncture, owing to the fact that the committee was not ready to report, and the convention being in an exceedingly good humor with itself after listening to President McBride’s speech, songs were called for from the well-known vocalist delegates who were there, and, after patriotic, topical, sentimental and comic songs from J. H. Taylor, Delegates Dolan, Anderson, Thomas and Gay, and the splendid rendition of “Shamus O’Brien,” by Secretary McBryde, the convention adjourned till the time named. TUESDAY MORNING. In the absence of President McBride, who was in attend- ance at a conference, Vice-President Penna called the con- vention to order. More delegates reported their presence and the convention proceeded with its business. The chair now called for the report of the scale committee, and Delegate Bradley then reported in behalf of this com- mittee, as follows : Districts 2 and 3 (Central Pennsylvania). Prices that prevailed at the beginning of scale year 1893 : For mining and loading coal, 50 cents per ton of 2,240 pounds, run of mine; for ton of 2,000 pounds, 45 cents. Coal three Cleveland Convention, 1894 339 feet and under, prices ranged from 8 to 15 per cent higher. Present price, 40 and 35 cents respectively. Low G-rade Division. Beech Tree, Coal Glen, Shawmut, Brock mines and Clarion mines were paid 55 cents ; present price, 40 cents. New Bethlehem, Long Run mines. Clarion county. Pa., thickness of vein 7 feet, price for mining until December 1, 1893, 65 cents per ton, and for two preceding years until March 12 60 cents per ton. From March 12 to time of sus- pension for run of mine, 35 cents per ton. For Fairmont the same condition as the above, being the same company, except difference in thickness of vein, which is 31/^ feet, and have one foot of bottom to dig, also spars and clay veins to cut for nothing. Oakbridge, Armstrong county. Pa., price paid for mining for previous two years up to December 1, 1893, for screened coal, 65 cents ; from then until March 12, 1894, 60 cents ; from then to suspension of work 521/2 cents, and brush down one- foot roof without any compensation. Thickness of vein 3 feet 10 inches. Receive nothing for bailing water at either of the three mines. Markets, Buffalo and Canada. Laicsonham Suh-Districi, L. G. A. V. R. R., Avondale Keystone, Brier Ridge, Acme, Mahoning, Pine Creek, Reimerston, River View and Monarch were paid 65 cents; Hard Scrabble, Hillville and Monterey, 70 cents. Bradford, Lycoming county. Pa., No. 5, 75 cents; No. 3, 50, 60 and 68 cents. Bear Run, 80 cents; Antrim, 50 cents; Long Valley, Red Beaver, 50 cents ; vein 2 feet 4 inches and 2 feet 6 inches. All the foregoing prices are for run of mine coal, and to make the matter clearer it may be added that, previous to the reduction, the minimum price was 50 cents and the maximum 80 cents, while at the time of the suspension the minimum was 40 cents and the maximum 67 cents. Illinois. Spring Valley — Screened coal, 90 cents in winter and 80 cents in summer. No reduction suffered up to the present during the year. LaSalle — Screened coal, 90 cents in winter and 80 cents in summer. Streator — Screened coal, 80 cents in winter, 721/2 cents in summer. The 3-foot veins of Robert’s and Bear’s and John Plumb’s, 95 cents and 80 cents per ton respectively. 340 United Mine Workers of America Grape Creek — Screened coal, 60 cents before the reduc- tion; for run of mine, 431/2 and 45 cents per ton. At present 55 cents screened, 38 cents mine run. Danville — All screened coal 60 cents before reduction; at present 55 cents. Fairmont, 48 cents for run of mine before reduction; at present, or before suspension, 421/2 cents. Glenburn — Last year 48 cents mine run; at present 40 cents. Peoria and Canton — Screened coal 75 cents per ton in winter, 671/2 cents in summer ; 50 cents run of mine in summer and 55 cents in winter. Norris Mines — Always 5 cents above district price. Springfield — Run of mine, 45 cents per ton. Braidwood — Screened coal 95 cents in winter 871/2 cents in summer. Pana, Penwood Shaft — Run of mine, 30 cents per ton ; ex- penses paid by company. Run of mine 32 cents per ton; ex- penses paid by men. No. 2 screened coal, 42 cents; expenses paid by company. No. 1 screened coal, 45 cents; expanses paid by company. Carlinville — Run of mine, 40 cents per ton. Belleville — Cleaned in mine, 1% cents per bushel. Duquoin — Run of mine, 37i/2 cents in winter, 35 cents in summer. Oden — Run of mine, 30 cents ; chute coal, 30 cents. Centralia — Screened coal, 561/, cents per ton; chute coal, 50 cents. District 11 (Indiana). May.l, 1893, 70 cents per ton, pick mining; over li/o-inch screen, flat bar. April 21, 1894, 70 cents per ton, pick mining; over li/o-inch screen flat bar. Clinton, Rosedale, Mecca and Coxville were reduced 16 per cent from the above prices in pick mines. District 6. Hocking Valley, at beginning of last scale year, 70 cents; present price, 50 cents. Jackson county, Wellston district, 70 cents; present price, 50 cents. Coalton district, 75 cents; present price, 55 cents. Tuscarawas, 85 cents. Massillon district was paid 85 cents and upward and have been on strike for three months against a reduction, over and above the regular reduction in Hocking Valley. Latrobe District (Pennsylvania) . Room coal, 38 cents; heading 48 cents; driving, $2.10; track laying, $2.10; inside labor varied from $1.40 to $1.80; coke drawing varied from 75 cents to 80 cents. When coal Cleveland Convention, 1894 341 was loaded by measure, room coal was paid per 100 bushels, $1.50; heading coal per 100 bushels, $1.75^2 > driving $2.25. District 14 (Missouri-Kansas). Screened Coal — Lingo, 1893, 67 cents ; 1894, 62 cents. Mar- saline, 1893, $1; 1894, $1. Moberly, 1893, 55 cents; 1894, 50 cents. Wellsville, 1893, 92 cents; 1894, 80 cents. Martins- burg, 1893, 92 cents ; 1894, 82 cents. Switzer, 1893, 80 cents ; 1894, 70 cents. Vandalia, 1893, 86 cents; 1894, 80 cents. Van- dalia No. 3, 1893, $1; 1894, 86 cents. Elliott, 1893, 84 cents; 1894, 79 cents. Higbee, 1893, 84 cents; 1894, 75 cents. Lex- ington, 1893, $1 ; 1894, 621/2 cents. Richmond, 1893, $1 ; 1894, 75 cents. Fleming, 1893, $1 ; 1894, 75 cents. Ardmore, 1893, 55 cents; 1894, 55 cents. Mendota, 1893, 79 cents; 1894, 64 cents. Deepwater, 1893, 75 cents; 1894, 50 cents; Rich Hill, 1893, 511/2 cents ; 1894, 50 cents. Southeast Kansas, 1893, 70 cents; 1894, 50 cents. Central Kansas, 1893, $1.50; 1894, $1. Burlington, Kas.^ 1893, $1.17 ; 1894, $1. Leavenworth, 1893, $1 ; 1894, 80 cents. Higginsville, Mo., 1893, $1 ; 1894, 87% cents. This is for 2,000 pounds weighed. District 19 (Kentucky and Tennessee). Laurel District — 1893, screen coal, 75 cents per ton; same in 1894. Jellico District — Screen coal, 3 feet 6 inches and over, 75 cents ; 3 feet 3 inches, 80 cents ; under 3 feet 3 inches, 85 cents. Coal Creek and Oliver Springs — Run of mine, 1893, 50 cents ; 1894, 40 cents, 45 cents and 50 cents. Barren Fork — Screen, 1893, 80 cents ; 1894, 72 cents. Strunk’s Lane — Screened, 1893, 80 cents where no de- ficiencies existed; 90 cents and 95 cents where deficiencies existed ; 1894, 72 cents and 81 cents respectively. Glen Mary — Screened coal, 1893, $1 per ton in winter, 87% cents in summer, and 25 cents reduction in 1894. Towand — Run of mine, 1893, 65 cents ; 1894, 57 cents. Paint Rock — Screened, above 3 feet in thickness, 80 cents in 1893, and under 3 feet, $1 per ton ; 1894, 70 cents per ton, and under 3 feet, 90 cents. Greenwood — Screened coal, 1893, 80 cents; 1894, 75 cents. Rush — Screened coal, 1893, 65 cents ; 1894, 55 cents. Stinson — Run of mine, 1893, 43 cents; 1894, 40 cents; cannel, 1893, $1.35 to $1.75; 1894, $1 to $1.50. Atona — Run of mine, 1893, 50 cents per ton; 1894, 39 cents. Mt. Savage — Screened coal, 1893, 65 cents; 1894, 60 cents. Denton — Screened, 1893, 90 cents per ton; 1894, 65 cents. 342 United Mine Workers of America Mary Coal Company — Screened, 1893, 75 cents; 1894, 70 cents. Willard — Screened, 1893, 80 cents; 1894, 70 cents. Grayson — Cannel run, 1893, $2 per ton; 1894, $1.60 per ton ; brushing and removing dirt included. Panhandle District (West Yirginia). Railroad — 50 cents per ton, over 1%-inch screen; mill mines and peddling mines, 371/2 cents per net ton; run of mine. The Fairmont region was down to 321/2 cents per gross ton, but since the suspension has been advanced to 40 cents and 421/2 cents, run of mine. Prices for those places last year were: Railroad mines, screened, 70 cents per ton; run of mine, 471/2 cents ; mill mines and peddling mines, 50 cents. The Fairmont region was 40 cents. Maryland. George’s Creek — The price last year was 50 cents, run of mine ; at present it is 40 cents. Indian Territory. Coalgate and Lehigh, screened coal, 4 cents per bushel; coal over %-inch screen, 31/2 cents. McAllister, Krebbs, Alderson and Hartshorne (winter) screened coal, 4 2 '5 cents per bushel; run of mine, 31/2 cents; (summer) screened, 4I/4, cents ; run of mine 3 1/3 cents ; 1-inch screen. Alabama. Forty-five cents per ton, run of mine, for the years 1891 and 1892. Reductions on above prices have been made from 25 per cent to 30 per cent. Iowa. District 1 — Low coal for summer, 80 cents; winter, $1; and intermediate coal, 64 cents to 75 cents per ton. District 2 — Seventy-five cents per ton for year. District 3 — Eighty cents and $1 per ton summer and win- ter respectively. Pomeroy (Ohio). Two and one-fourth cents per bushel ; present price, 2 cents per bushel. DuBois (Pennsylvania). Machine man, $2; shoveler, $1.75; shooting and loading 17 cents per ton, run of mine. Operators and Miners in Conference 343 District 17. Kanawha prices last year, 2i/^ and 2% cents per bushel in hard coal mines; size of screen, and 2 inches; present price, 2 and 21^ cents. Soft coal price last year, 40 cents per ton, run of mine, over 1 / 2 -iDch screen ; 56 cents per ton of 2,240 pounds ; present prices, 30 and 42 cents respectively. New River — Last year’s price, 50 cents per ton of 2,240 pounds ; present price, 40 cents. Anstead has not been reduced for several years; price, 25 cents per ton of 2,240 pounds. Elk Garden — 1892, 50 cents per ton, run of mine, of 2,240 pounds. Where two prices (before and after reductions, or last year and this year) are not given in the above, it must be understood that the price paid before suspension is the price mentioned. The foregoing report was for the purpose of instructing the convention as to the actual conditions in the respective fields, and was accepted, and the convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. At 3 o’clock President McBride addressed the convention and reported that the Ohio and Indiana operators were un- intentionally detained, and this caused the . opening of the pro- ceedings to be delayed. Then Mr. Floersheim, a Pittsburg operator, attempted to address the convention, but his atti- tude was so provocative of merriment, especially among some of his own colleagues, that he could not be heard from the clapping and ironical applause. A few minutes having elapsed, the absent operators made their appearance. Mr. Zerbe, operator, was nominated for chairman and was elected and opened the convention. He thanked the con- vention. He said this was one of the most important conven- tions that he had ever attended. He advised action prompted by generous and general impulses rather than of selfishness. He referred to the panic of last year, and said that the fact that we were not a complete wreck was due to the great busi- ness men of the country. He hoped that the convention would follow their example, and that they would arrive at an ami- cable and satisfactory settlement. P. McBryde was elected secretary, and Frank Brooks, of the operators, was elected assistant secretary. 344 United Mine Workers of America President McBride moved that the chair appoint a com- mittee on credentials. W. C. Pearce, Mr. Morton and Mr. Robins were appointed as the committee. P. H. Penna moved that a recess be taken for thirty min- utes to enable the committee on credentials to act. Recess was taken, and at the expiration of about an hour the committee on credentials reported delegates entitled to seats in the convention. There were operators representing 300 mines, principally from Ohio, Indiana and western Pennsylvania, but a sprink- ling was from West Virginia, with none from the other states. The resolution from Indiana operators was read as part of the report of the committee on credentials, to the effect that they would not be bound by the Cleveland convention unless some scale was adopted for central and southern Illinois dis- tricts. Motion, That certain western Pennsylvania operators present were not entitled to representation on account of their intention not to be bound by it. There were Dempster, Hanna, Osborne, Moore, O’Neil, Blackburne, Snowden and three others from the same district. Dempster said that they represented eighty-nine mines. Moved, That we adopt the report of the committee on cre- dentials. Mr. Dempster, on behalf of the unfriendly Pittsburg oper- ators, claimed the right to membership in the convention, not- withstanding their expressed antagonism to its object and a determination not to be governed by it. This brought out a warm speech from John McBride, and one from Vice-Presi- dent Penna, which, in very meanful and burning politeness, showed the unfair position of the operators led by l\Ir. Demp- ster. The latter gentleman claimed the same right to mem- bership in the convention as the Indiana operators, who had declared their intention not to be governed by the decision ar- rived at unless central and southern Illinois districts had a scale fixed for them. Vice-President Penna showed that this was not a parallel case, as the Indiana operators declared it Operators and Miners in Conference 345 was conditional, while Dempster’s and the others was an ab- solute declaration of war. At this stage the convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY MORNING. President McBride called the miners to order at 8 :30 a. m. for a conference before meeting the operators. Some discus- sion took place with respect to the mode of procedure. Presi- dent McBride strongly urged the delegates to be patient and careful in discussion in the joint convention. Moved, That our national officers and district presidents act as spokesmen in joint convention. Carried. A motion to adjourn was carried, but just on the point of rising a delegation from the Amalgamated Association of Iron, Steel and Tin Workers, comprising Messrs. Carney, Armstrong and Evans, arrived, who presented the following resolutions : Resolutions on Miners’ Troulle. Hall of Amalgamated Convention, Cleveland, Ohio, May 15, 1894. Whereas, The miners of the United States are now engaged in an heroic struggle for a much merited betterment of their condition ; and Whereas, They have acted with such unanimity and shown such constancy as to reflect credit upon all organized labor, and can not fail to ultimately bring success; this noble stand taken and so splendidly maintained by them deserves the en- couragement of all who have at heart the improvement of the masses ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we, the iron, tin and steel workers of the United States, do hereby declare our unqualified indorsement of their action, and that we proclaim our admiration for the complete, unprecedented and magnificent effort they are put- ting forth to win back, in some measure, the rights of which they have been deprived through helplessness that rendered them unable to effectually resist. Resolved, That we recognize in the demands of the miners a noble attempt to force back that unjustly taken from them, hence we admire the courage they display in their uncom- promising determination to compel the restoration of the wages and conditions similar to those prevailing before their employers found the miners in a disadvantageous position. 346 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be given to the miners. Unanimously adopted. M. M. Garland, President. Attest : J. C. K*ilgallon, Secretary. Moved, That the resolutions be accepted and made part of the proceedings of this convention, and that our officers re- spond and exchange greetings with the Amalgamated Associa- tion convention. Carried. Mr. Carney addressed the convention in a few appropriate words and wished the miners God-speed. Mr. Evans and Mr. Armstrong spoke, the latter saying his mission was to invite President McBride to come and speak to the Amalgamated Association convention. After acknowledging the invitation President McBride declared the convention adjourned to meet the operators in joint convention. JOINT CONVENTION. At 10:30 Chairman Zerbe called the convention to order. The following operators, it was learned, were appointed spokesmen : Ohio — J. S. Morton, John Brashears, W. R. Woodford, H. L. Chapman and W. J. Mullens. Pennsylvania — M. H. Taylor, John Blythe, Thomas H. Chapman, G. T. Dye and F. L. Robins. Indiana — W. Kenner, J. R. Seifert, Jos. Martin, David Ingalls and J. S. Tally. The chair stated that he w^as requested to announce that the Chamber of Commerce desired to present a resolution to the convention. Mr. Russell read it, which, in substance, was as follows: That seeing that the continuation of the suspension meant disaster to trade and suffering to workmen, they called upon this convention in the name of humanity to agree mutually before it adjourns. The gentleman paid a high tribute to the miners’ organ- ization, and said it was the only salvation of the miners of the country. Operators and Miners in Conference 347 Another representative of the Chamber of Commerce read a similar resolution from the Chamber of Commerce of Cin- cinnati, one from the Ohio State Board of Trade, and others from various bodies were placed on file by motion and made a part of the records of this convention. Mr. Robins moved that the order of business adopted at previous interstate conventions be used at this. Carried. The chair said the first thing was the appointment of a conference scale committee. It was announced that both sides had already selected their conference scale committee, and on motion by Mr. McBride the convention adjourned to permit the conference committee to meet. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. When the delegates assembled it was found that the con- ference committee was not ready to report. At about 2:30 o’clock, Mr. Crawford entered the hall and announced that the meeting should adjourn until 4 o’clock, on account of the com- mittee not being ready. Four o’clock having arrived, the com- mittee still were not ready, and at 5 o’clock Mr. Crawford appeared and said that the conference committee not being able to agree, had adjourned to give opportunity to the opera- tors to meet all together after supper, and the convention ad- journed. THURSDAY MORNING. The chair called the joint convention to order at 9:45 o’clock, and said the first business was to listen to the report of the conference committee. Mr. Chapman reported on be- half of conference committee. He said the operators’ side asked the miners for their proposition, which was the Colum- bus convention resolution, or 70 cents in the Hocking Valley and 79 cents in Pittsburg, and that they could not even give that as a definite proposition unless the operators would agree to check off assessments to maintain the men whose operators would not agree to this, and even then not until they had con- sulted the miners. The operators’ proposition was 56 cents for Hocking and 65 for Pittsburg. One of the operators asked the miners to 348 United Mine Workers of America make a definite proposition and they made it 79 cents, and the committee adjourned to report progress. Mr. Chapman moved that the conference committee be instructed to report a scale of 56 and 65 cents. In doing so he said that there was not a piece of property of any kind that had not depreciated in value, and would depreciate until some- thing was done to prevent it. He intimated as his belief that a dollar was worth more now than formerly, and also that the permanency of the United Mine Workers of America depended much on its recognition of this, and accepting the proposition of the operators. Then Mr. John McBride spoke and said that without further hesitation the miners were ready to vote on this prop- osition and to vote it down unanimously. AFTERNOON SESSION. Chairman Zerbe called the meeting to order. Mr. Chapman, of the Pittsburg operators, opened the de- bate. He said in part : If we met for no other purpose than to exchange views as we did this morning, it would be a valuable meeting. A year ago this time the mines had more than they could do. This spring conditions are changed. Our men voluntarily agreed to a reduction rather than have the mines closed be- cause consumers would not pay the old prices. We must either shut down the mines, under present conditions, or lower the price of coal and thus stimulate its consumption. Mr. Penna said that the average wages of miners was $364 per year. If you strike an average among la'wj^ers or doctors you will get the same result. Ministers will average $100 less. Unless we got labor from Italy and the countries of Central Europe, we would have no men in this country to operate the mines. English and German speaking miners soon enter other avocations. As a class the miners do not need commiseration. They are as well or better provided for than any class of workmen in the country. Mr. Chapman’s talk drew Secretary McBryde promptly to his feet, who said : I am glad Mr. Chapman has spoken. The members of this convention can now see one of the authors of the present sus- pension, the miners can look at one of the authors of the re- Operators and Miners in Conference 349 ductions that have taken place and the operators one of those responsible for the injury to the coal trade. He did not break his contract. Oh, no, he simply closed his mine and at the end of a week the miners were ready to agree to his terms. Did it never occur to Mr. Chapman that there were others besides himself and his employes interested in the scale of prices paid for mining? Did it never occur to him that the operators and miners of Pennsylvania had something to say in the making of this contract? Did it never dawn on his mind that opera- tors and miners of Ohio were also interested in maintaining the scale of prices? Because of the action of Mr. Chapman and others, I had to go to Pittsburg and urge the miners of the Pittsburg district to accept a reduction from operators who were willing to pay the price but whose mines were idle through the action of Mr. Chapman and others, and he now comes to the convention tendering his advice. Were all opera- tors like him I would advise the miners to go home. It has always been our custom to agree to a scale and the word of the operators and miners was accepted by both parties in good faith. But what guarantee have we that if we agree to a scale of prices that Mr. Chapman would not go home and repeat his performance of last year? John A. Cairns, president of the Pittsburg miners, next spoke, and made quite a point on Colonel Rend and the ques- tion of the greater value of the dollar. He said that at one of his mines not long ago they were treated to a speech in which the gentleman dilated on the greater purchasing power of money, and the next day increased the price of his flour ten cents a sack. After a little more cross-firing President McBride asked for a recess for one hour to permit the miners to confer, which was taken, the operators leaving the hall. The miners’ session lasted just about an hour. The follow- ing is the result of the hour’s deliberation, which on resuming the joint convention was read to the operators: Whereas, In view of the fact that a large and preponderat- ing proportion of the coal operators of the bituminous mines have either contemptuously or otherwise ignored the hand of peace and conciliation proffered them in the calling of this convention; and. Whereas, Being guided by the light of experience we be- lieve that, in the absence of those operators, any settlement, based on compromise, would be utterly impracticable, and 350 United Mine Workers of America would only add to and accentuate the miserable condition of our constituents, therefore, be it Resolved, That we deem it impossible to make any settle- ment here with those operators who have met us, and, while appreciating the full extent of the effort made by the same we ask their co-operation in bringing peaceable and persuasive pressure to bear upon the absent operators to agree to terms giving justice to our craftsmen. THE MINERS’ SESSION. On Friday morning the miners’ delegates met by them- selves, and after about three hours discussion, adopted the following : Moved, That the whole question be left in the hands of the national executive board and district presidents. The previous question being called and voted for, the motion was put and carried, with only one dissenting vote, Mike Maher of Clinton, Indiana, desiring to be recorded as voting no on the motion. Moved, That when delegates reach home they call mass meetings and report the proceedings of this convention. Amendment, That result of mass meetings be sent to na- tional executive board. The motion as amended was carried and the session adjourned sine die. BULLETIN NO. 7 UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA COMPOSED OF NATIONAL TRADES ASSEMBLY 135, KNIGHTS OF LABOR, AND NATIONAL PROGRESSIVE UNION. Columbus, Ohio, June 12, 1894. Mine Workers of America, Greeting: The following agreement was reached at Columbus be- tween your representatives and officials and the undersigned operators, representing the districts named : “Resolved, That we agree that the rates for mining 2,000 pounds of lump coal be as follows : Pittsburg, thin vein, 69 cents; thick vein, 56 cents; Hocking Valley, 60 cents; Indiana bituminous, 60 cents; Indiana block, 70 cents; Streator, Illi- nois, 621/2 cents for summer, 70 cents for winter; Wilmington, Illinois, 771/2 cents for summer and 85 cents for winter; La- Salle and Spring Valley, 7214 for summer and 85 for winter. Other sections in the Illinois field, at prices relative to the above. Coal in Pittsburg district going east to tidewater, shall pay the same mining price as that paid by the Pennsyl- vania Gas and Westmoreland Coal Company. Official Circular Sent to Miners 351 “This scale of prices shall be in effect and bind both parties thereto beginning June 18, 1894, and continuing until May 1, 1895, subject to the following provisions: “Provided, That the above named scale of prices for the Pittsburg district shall be generally recognized and observed. “It is further provided that operators and miners shall co-operate in their efforts to secure a general observance of said prices named for said district, and if, during the period covered by this agreement, a general recognition of the prices herein named for said district cannot be secured, either party to this agreement may call a meeting of the joint board of arbitration to meet at such time and place as those having authority may elect; and said joint board when so called shall meet and determine, if able, whether the agreement has been sufficiently respected and complied with to warrant its con- tinuance to the date named herein; if the board is unable to agree the members therof shall select a disinterested man whose decision shall be final. “If it shall be found and decided by process above provided that it is being substantially respected, it shall remain in force and bind both parties thereto for the period stipulated herein ; and if found and decided by same process not to be so gener- ally observed as to warrant its continuance, it shall be abro- gated and both parties thereto absolved from contract obliga- tions herein set forth. “Whenever miners desire they shall be permitted to elect and place on the tipple as checkweighman men of their own choice. “Wages shall be paid on the above scale semi-monthly. All balances due on pay day shall be paid in cash. An inter- state board of arbitration and conciliation, consisting of four operators and four miners, shall consider and determine upon any inequality complained of as between the different fields named in the above schedule of prices. “Signed on behalf of miners by John McBride, Patrick McBryde, John A. Cairns, Joseph Dunkerly, Cameron Miller, P. H. Penna, John Fahy. “Signed on behalf of operators by J. S. Morton and H. L. Chapman, Ohio; Francis L. Robbins and M. H. Taylor, Penn- sylvania; J. Smith Tally and Walter S. Bogle, Indiana; A. L. Sweet and E. T. Bent, Northern Illinois.” At the joint convention of miners and operators held at Cleveland, Ohio, May 14 and 15, no agreement could be reached as to the priqe of mining, and on the 16th the miners’ delegates met and after fully discussing the situation, with only one dissenting vote adopted the following: “Resolved, That the whole question be left in the hands of the national executive board and district presidents.” 352 United Mine Workers of America The reason for the passage of this resolution was : First, because of the weakened condition of the finances, locally, and of the miners throughout the country, and their consequent inability to bear the heavy expense of sending delegates to the national conventions, and in consideration of the belief that national conventions could not be held, and second, be- cause in case of any emergency arising for quick action a con- vention would be too slow in operation to take the necessary and prompt steps in behalf of the interests of the men de- pending upon us for the management of their affairs, and in case it presented itself that rout was inevitable or other mis- fortune to our movement imminent, would be too slow to save anything from the wreck. At our annual convention in April the representatives outlined and agreed to a policy by which miners were expected to govern themselves. This policy being one of peace and quietness showed very plainly the intent and purpose of dele- gates and officers alike. Following is the resolution adopted : “Whereas, We believe that the interests of our organiza- tion can best be subserved and the purposes we seek to ac- complish through a general suspension of mining more easily obtained by a full and complete observance of law, the main- tenance of peace and protection of property, “Resolved, That we pledge ourselves and call upon our members to enforce the suspension of mining by peaceful and law abiding methods, and should it be necessary at any time we promise to voluntarily assist in the work of protecting life and property wherever threatened.” Here is a plain declaration of our policy, providing, not only that we should refrain from violating law, but pledging an active, energetic co-operation in the enforcement of law and order everywhere. As long as the miners engaged in the suspension observed this policy of peace and order there was no doubt of their ultimate triumph. There has been at no time, nor indeed can there be, any reason for setting law and lawful authorities at defiance and indulging in violent demonstrations to remove supposed obstacles or to redress imaginary wrongs. That violence has been committed, and law' in other w'ays dis- regarded there is no doubt, but that our men have been so outrageously lawless as the press reports indicate w*e deny. Any violation of law, howmver small, supplemented by the maliciously exaggerated press reports proved sufficient to change and turn against us a public opinion never too friendly toward the laboring men when in conflict with corporate greed, but pow^erful for or against any movement sufficiently large to attract its attention. Hence, wdien our men began to commit deeds of violence, interfering wfith property rights in Official Circular Sent to Miners 353 stopping trains and resisting regularly organized authorities of law, and this in persistent defiance of the officers of the organization and direct violation of the policy agreed on in national convention, the public thought and sympathy which had been ours in the struggle readily turned against us. Our friends became fewer and less ardent in our defense, while our enemies were furnished an excuse for an assumed right- eous indignation, and impartial observers could readily recognize in the change the beginning of the end. Your president recognizing these facts and being powerless to en- force discipline in our ranks, and believing that the danger line had been reached and being unwilling to assume or bear the responsibility for acts over which he had no control, called a meeting of the national executive board and district presidents in accordance with instructions given at the last national convention. To this meeting, including in its members the national ex- ecutive board and district presidents from every district in the Union at which every particle of evidence covering the field of movement was taken, several of the district presidents came determined to stand out till the end for the original de- mand, but on hearing from other districts and putting the whole weight of evidence into the scale of their judgment they, with the board, decided with not a single exception to adopt the following resolution which accordingly passed : “Whereas, It is evident that a national convention of oper- ators and miners cannot be had for the purpose of effecting a general settlement of the present differences between them over mining rates to be paid for the next year ; “Whereas, Operators in nearly all districts have expressed a willingness to meet within their respective districts the representatives of the miners, for the purpose of adjusting said price ; “Resolved, That we, the members of the national executive board and district presidents, to whom was delegated the power to act for the miners by the last convention of the United Mine Workers of America, declare our willingness to meet with the operators of mines in the various districts to attempt, and if possible effect, a settlement of mining prices. “Resolved, That the conferences of representatives of miners and operators of different districts be arranged and held not later than Saturday, June 9.” After agreeing to the above, the question arose as to what terms the miners should agree to in the several conferences rather than risk defeat and consequent disaster, and it also was decided without a dissenting voice that this competitive district should accept as the minimum price, 69 cents for the Pittsburg field and the same relative price for Ohio, Indiana 354 United Mine Workers of America and Northern Illinois. The other districts were provided for in a similar manner according to the conditions prevailing at the time the suspension was inaugurated. The making of this agreement is in line with the decision of the national com- mittee, and in the judgment of the members of that committee in keeping with your best interests. At the time your national committee met to canvass the situation the members realized that we had reached the critical and turning point in the fight, and that we must choose be- tween defeat and demoralization or a compromise settlement, which would establish a better relative price between com- peting fields, and thus give greater protection to all interests. Our seemingly extreme position to not load coal at any price or for any purpose, although justified by your wants and your interests, was turning against us by the manufacturing, railroad and other coal consuming forces, and in nearly everj’ large city operators were tendered their co-operation, finan- cially and otherwise, to assist in operating the mines with new men, and considering the number of idle men who are ready to do anything to stave off what looks to them sure starvation, as well as the numerous bodies of men who are apparently always ready to scab as a profession, it was only too evident that the threats of many of the larger operators to operate their mines within the next week, would, with the assistance of every lawful and unlawful Winchester in the country, and with the prostrate and mangled corpses of many of our craftsmen, and the unjust and cruel incarceration of many others, would become, alas, but too well fulfilled. With all of the foregoing facts staring us in the face, and with hundreds of others which might or might not be impolitic to reiterate here, but which there is not space to deal with, we have shouldered, perhaps, against the protest of some thous- ands of our craftsmen, what we fully recognize to be the greatest responsibility during this generation of miners, but one which we not only believe, but positively know to be in the best interest of our craftsmen at this time, the only possible bad effect of which may be in you, our constituents, losing your temper and withdrawing from the union that confidence which you have repeatedly affirmed, and which you seemed to repose in it. Notwithstanding the unpleasant termination of our national suspension, it has very, very largely counter- acted in the settlement made the evil effects of one of the worst panics of our times, and with a continued and disciplined ad- hesion to the principles of your organization, and with fair treatment to the men who are placed in positions such as we now occupy, you may confidently hope within the next year at least to remove all of its bad effects. To attempt to ignore the existence of these evil effects is to close our eyes to the Official Circular Sent to Miners 355 world around us, to our neighbors, to business, and to com- mercial relations wherever they are wont to be. But what have we gained, if anything, from our movement? In order to realize what has been accomplished by the sus- pension it is only necessary to glance at the condition of the country previous to the national convention and its condition today. Reductions in wages ranging from 10 to 30 cents per ton had taken place in Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Vir- ginia, parts of Illinois, Indiana and elsewhere, while reduc- tions of like amounts were pending in Indiana, Illinois, Ten- nessee, Kentucky and nearly every state where reductions had not already taken place. The suspension caused the restora- tion of prices in the Fairmont district of West Virginia where the men remained at work much to the injury of other parts of the country. While we have not been able to restore wages to what they were in the early part of 1893, we have, in many instances, prevented reductions from taking place, and in others secured part of what we lost. Reductions have been prevented in Southern Illinois, and in Iowa prices have been restored and the organization recognized. One half of the reduction pending on May 1 has been saved to the miners of Indiana, and a similar amount saved to the miners of Northern Illinois; in addition to this the operators from the latter field have promised to abolish the infamous contract system which has caused so much dissatisfaction to the other fields. In Ohio an increase of 10 cents per ton has been secured, and Western Pennsylvania an advance of a similar amount. In addition to the price of mining the inter- state agreement has been re-established and once more peace- ful methods of adjusting wages will take the place of strikes. In electing checkweighmen miners will no longer be ham- pered by the interference of the operator, as under the agree- ment they will have the privilege of electing a man of their own choice to fill that position, something not heretofore enjoyed by a large portion of their number. The representa- tives of the Pennsylvania operators have said that some of their number are opposed to taking part in this movement because of the existence of stores. If the Pennsylvania opera- tors who pay cash and have no stores make abolition of stores a condition of their paying scale rates those who have stores will remove that obstacle by disposing of their stores and pay- ing cash. While we have not succeeded in accomplishing everything mapped out by the national convention we have secured more for the men than could have been obtained through local or sectional effort and in our judgment all that could be obtained by the present movement under the conditions by which we 356 United Mine Workers of America were surrounded, and conditions that were unforeseen at the time of the national convention. Large corporations engaged in the coal business had taken contracts for hundreds of thou- sands of tons based on the low price of mining. While these people are willing to suffer some loss and give the miners a slight increase of wages, they are not willing to pay the price demanded by the miners. They assert that it would be a finan- cial gain to them to allow their mines to remain idle during the year rather than to pay the price demanded by the miners and fulfill the contracts entered into by them. Owing to the conditions of the country for some time previous to the suspension our miners were in a state of semi- starvation, and were entirely unprepared to engage in a pro- tracted struggle. The wails of suffering from every part of the country are heart-rending in the extreme and while the men are ready to endure more in order that the present move- ment should not be a failure, we feel that it would be criminal on our part to continue in a struggle when we have secured all that it is possible to secure at the present time. We also believe that if the present struggle was to continue for ten days more disaster and defeat would overtake us and it would be years before we were again in the position we now occupy. Fellow Miners — In thus terminating the grandest effort of combined labor that was ever engaged in by any body of men at any time, we know that you are disappointed and as- sure you that we share your disappointment. We believed in the efficacy of general suspension and have for years earnestly and honestly advocated it as the miners’ only hope. When on the 21st of April 125,000 men quietly refused to work, you with us shared the exhilarating hope that in a few days or weeks at the most our battle would be fought and victory won. and as the miners all over the country joined our ranks, and industry began to feel the paralysis resulting from our in- action, our hope gave place to certainty, and a buoyancy of spirits, worthy a cause so noble, characterized our efforts. Our struggle has, contrary to all exceptions, continued until the 8th week has been reached, and conditions so changed that in our judgment makes the settlement necessaiy, and under the circumstances the very best that could be se- cured at this time, and better than could be gained if the con- ference adjourned without an agreement. To this circular and facts surrounding this question we ask your serious con- sideration, and that you will not act hastily or unadvisedly. We assure you that we did not enter into this agreement be- cause it was pleasing or even satisfactory to us, but because we seriously believed that better could not be got, no matter how long the struggle continued. 6th National Annual Convention 357 We feel that much has been gained by this effort which could not have been secured by any other method. We earn- estly advise that you accept the conditions made and resume work on June 18th, as provided in the contract. We are so confident of the correctness of our position in signing and advising the acceptance of this contract, that on its acceptance or rejection by you, we stake our reputations as your servants, and our further continuance in official position. Signed : John McBride, President. P. H. Penna, Vice-President. Patrick McBryde, Secretary-Treasurer. John Fahy, Cameron Miller, Members Executive Board. John A. Cairns, President, District 5. Joseph Dunkerly, President, District 11. CHAPTER XVII. SIXTH NATIONAL ANNUAL CONVENTION. Columbus, Ohio, Tuesday, Feb. 12, 1895. The national convention met at 10 a. m. with President Penna in the chair. The committee on credentials made a partial report that was approved. By request of J. A. Crawford, R. Stanton of Bartonville, Illinois, was given a voice and vote in the convention, after which the chairman appointed the following committees; Distribution — G. W. Lackey, Dugger, Indiana; William Nixon, Dillonvale, Ohio; E. C. Miller, Barnhill, Ohio; E. Pipes, Linton, Indiana. Rules and Order of Business — Alexander Johnson, Nelson- ville, Ohio; John H. Kennedy, Terre Haute, Indiana; J. M. Larkin, Smithton, Pennsylvania; J. W. Reynolds, Beacon, Iowa; W. C. Warburton, Coaldale, West Virginia. Grievances — Mike Maher, Clinton, Indiana ; Sherman Glasgow, Bellaire, Ohio; James O’Conner, Spring Valley, Illinois; William Warner, Mansfield, Pennsylvania; John Rinn, Mahoney City, Pennsylvania. 358 United Mine Workers of America Resolutions — T. A. Bradley, Lilly, Pennsylvania; William Richards, Shawnee, Ohio; John Cairns, Pittsburg, Pennsyl- vania; George W. Purcell, Washington, Indiana; Jerre Meade, Wheeling, West Virginia. Constitution — W. H. Turner, Cambridge, Ohio ; W. J. Guy- man, Springfield, Illinois; Robert Watchorn, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, T. L. Roberts, Rosedale, Indiana; P. J. Doyle, Pennsylvania. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Penna called the convention to order and the committee on rules and order of business reported as folows : 1. That the convention open at 8:30 a. m., adjourn at 12 m., meet again at 1 :30 p. m., and adjourn at 5 p. m. 2. No delegate be allowed to speak more than five minutes on any one subject except by permission of the convention; nor more than once until all others have had the opportunity to speak on the same subject. 3. Reports of officers. 4. Committees to report in the following order: On appeals and grievances; resolutions; constitution; offi- cers’ reports; finance; mileage; scale committee on machine mining; scale committee on pick mining; district boundaries. 5. Election of Officers. 6. Miscellaneous business. 7. Cushing’s manual to govern all parliamentary usage. The committee’s report was adopted. W. C. Pearce was appointed assistant secretary of the con- vention. The president appointed the following committee on mileage : John Fahy, Barney Rice and R. L. Davis. The president announced that the next thing in order 'was the officers’ reports, and that as ex-president John McBride had filled the position for nearly the whole term, the executive board had decided that he should review the field for the past year in an address to the convention, and suggested he be called upon to do so. President McBride’s Address 359 Mr. McBride then walked to the platform and was given a hearty cheering by the delegates and then delivered his address : ADDRESS, IN PART, OF EX-PRESIDENT M’BRIDE. Columbus, Ohio, February 12, 1895. Representatives of the United Mine Workers of America: Gentlemen — Conforming to constitutional requirements we have met in this our sixth annual convention once more to review the work of the past year, canvass the conditions of the present and provide for the future welfare of our crafts- men. The past year has been a notable one in many respects, but its chief characteristic was the powerlessness of labor organizations to stay the relentless tide of misfortune which engulfed the industries of the country and carried ruin and disaster, sorrow and suffering, into the homes of hundreds of thousands of wage-workers in every known trade and calling. That the financial panic of 1893 was but the prelude to the industrial paralysis of 1894 is now fully understood by all who follow the trend of such events in this or in older countries; but at the time of our last convention, when prices and condi- tions in some of our leading districts were in a chaotic state, we did not know, but only apprehended, that calamitous re- sults would follow in the wake of threatened disaster to our craft’s interests ; and it was upon this apprehension, and with a desire to stop reductions in mining rates where threatened, and to raise them in localities where they had been lowered, that we declared in favor of a general suspension of mining upon April 21, 1894. The causes leading up to the declaration for, and the in- auguration of, a general suspension — an extreme, radical and unprecedented movement in this country — can be traced to the cutting of mining rates in the Pittsburg, Pa., district in the fall of 1893, and the reduction in price followed in the central Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio fields, and threatened reductions in the rates paid in the western and southern states. By a joint agerement between miners and operators of the Pittsburg district. May 1, 1893, the price per ton for mining was fixed at 79 cents, but the financial stringency during the months of August and September following the agreement, and the discouraging and demoralized condition of the miners of that district, led to the ignoring of the agreement by opera- tors and miners, and, as a result, the recognized price in that field, at the time of our last annual convention, was 60 cents per ton, while in some places 55 and as low as 43 cents was being paid. United Mine Workers of America 360 ^ The situation was extremely critical and I recognized that ordinary methods would not effect a cure, hence in my last annual address I advised that a general suspension of mining be tried as a means of securing and maintaining a. living standard of wages for mining coal. When advising such a movement, I comprehended that if it were decided upon it would be an experiment of that character, the success of which meant great gains to mine workers, whereas a failure could not make matters worse than they were at the time the advice was given. The convention decided that no coal should be mined for any purpose after noon on April 21, 1894, until prices had been restored to where they were on May 1, 1893. Like “a drowning man grasping at a straw” to save himself, the United Mine Workers’ organization decided upon taking desperate chances when they declared for the general suspen- sion At the time the convention met, we had only 13,000 paid- up members and a good standing membership of only 24,000 ; and to make the suspension of mining general it was necessary for 193,000 bituminous miners to stop work, and we had no assurance that we could depend upon any but our own mem- bers. In addition to our small membership we were prac- tically without money. After the car fare of delegates had been paid there was only $2,600 in our treasuiy, and out of that we were expected to meet the ordinary running expenses of the organization, and the extraordinary expenditures con- nected with the sending of dozens of extra organizers and agitators into unorganized fields to induce unorganized miners to co-operate with our membership and thus increase the chances for success. The preparatory work assigned your officials in connection with the suspension was such as to make the strongest-hearted of them doubt its accomplishment, and it is safe to say that we would have failed had we not been aided by that desperate enthusiasm which so often springs from despair growing out of deferred hopes. THE SUSPENSION. At the hour fixed upon for the suspension 125,000 mine workers dropped their tools, and the number increased from day to day until 180,000 were idle at the time of the Cleve- land convention. It was at the time of the Cleveland meeting that the movement for better prices was at its best, and it was a keen disappointment to me that the small representa- tion on the part of the operators prevented a settlement at that time. The failure to settle at Cleveland appeared to not only have disappointed, but rendered desperate many of our craftsmen, and aroused into life and aggressive hostility President McBride’s Address 361 many operators who, up to that time, had quietly waited for developments and hoped for an amicable settlement. A long personal experience in mining affairs taught me that violence in connection with any of our strikes ended in our defeat, and it was with a view of obviating the danger to our suspension movement from such a cause that I asked the convention to adopt (and it did) the following: “Whereas, We believe that the interest of our organiza- tion can best be subserved and the purposes we seek to ac- complish through a general suspension of mining more easily obtained by a full and complete observance of law, the main- tenance of peace and protection of property, “Resolved, That we pledge ourselves and call upon our members to enforce the suspension of mining by peaceful and law-abiding methods, and should it be necessary at any time, we promise to voluntarily assist on the work of protect- ing life and property wherever threatened.” He quoted further from a bulletin issued June 12, 1894, to the miners advising against the violation of law with com- mendable advice and said : “Your president, recognizing these facts and being power- less to enforce discipline in our ranks, and believing that the danger line had been reached, and being unwilling to assume or bear the responsibility for acts over which he had no con- trol, called a meeting of the national executive board and dis- trict presidents in accordance with instructions given at the last national convention.” The power of the national committee to settle the suspen- sion upon such terms as, in the judgment of its members, could be obtained was conferred by the convention at Cleve- land in the passage of the following : “Resolved, That the whole question be left in the hands of the national executive board and district presidents.” In response to my call for a meeting of the national com- mittee the following members attended: John McBride, P. H. Penna, P. McBryde, W. C. Webb, J. A. Crawford, W. B. Wil- son, T. A. Bradley, Cameron Miller, and John Fahy, of the national executive board, and James Sweeney, of Arnot, Pa. ; J. A. Cairns, Pittsburg, Pa.; D. E. Dick, Maryland; Joseph Dunkerley, Indiana; A. A. Adams, Ohio; D. Fisher, Pomeroy, Ohio; J. A. Clarkson, Iowa; James Carter, Kentucky; N. J. Beltrand, Indian Territory; Thomas Farry, West Virginia; T. B. McGregor, Missouri; Henry Flowerseed, Arkansas, as district president, making in all twenty-four members. After each member of the committee had expressed his views upon the situation and the chances of our winning everything demanded, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted without a dissenting vote : 362 United Mine Workers of America “Whereas, It is evident that a national convention of oper- ators and miners can not be had for the purpose of effecting a general settlement of the present differences between them over mining rates to be paid for the next year ; “Whereas, Operators in nearly all districts have expressed a willingness to meet within their respective districts the representatives of the miners for the purpose of adjusting said prices ; “Resolved, That we, the members of the national executive board and district presidents, to whom was delegated the power to act for the miners by the last convention of the United Mine Workers of America, declare our willingness to meet with the operators of mines in the various districts to attempt, and, if possible, effect a settlement of mining prices. “Resolved, That the conference of representatives of miners and operators of different districts be arranged and held not later than Saturday, June 9.” In changing our policy from the holding of a national to that of separate district conferences, it was necessary to de- termine upon prices, and, without a dissenting voice, it was decided that 69 cents should be the price for the Pittsburg district, 60 cents for the Ohio district and corresponding prices for other districts. It is not my intention, neither is it necessary to go into minute details connected with the position taken by your national committee relative to a settlement ; but I may with propriety point out some of the causes leading up to that action. At the time your national committee de- cided upon terms of settlement there were no hopes of win- ning the price demanded in the eastern bituminous district, because of the fact that all the mines in Virginia, a large part of those of West Virginia and two or three large mines in the Maryland district were at work and were supplying all the coal needed in the seaboard markets, and in addition were able to send some into Ohio and Illinois markets, and under such conditions central Pennsylvania miners were fighting a hopeless fight with defeat certain unless a compromise could be effected. The truth of this statement has since been em- phasized by the defeat of the central Pennsylvania district and their return to work at the price prevailing at the time of our last national convention. He quoted market statistics showing increase and decrease in production before and dur- ing the suspension, and said: “This statement does not in- clude the Fairmont, West Virginia, field, that worked night and day during the suspension, but no figures were obtainable that would show their increase in production.” There was no hope of winning 79 cents in the Pittsburg district because of the determined opposition of all the oper- ators and the apparent weakness of our own forces. That this President McBride’s Address 363 statement is true is evidenced by the fact that two large com- panies refused to pay the compromise price of 69 cents, and in spite of our efforts and a protracted fight by the miners employed by these two companies, our forces were compelled to surrender, and as a result, instead of the 69-cent price be- ing paid coal is now mined at 45 and 55 cents per ton — very few miners or operators now recognize the 69-cent rate. The return to work of the Coal Creek (Tennessee) miners and the refusal of the McHenry and Sturgis (Kentucky) miners to quit work gave much trouble to the Tennessee and Kentucky, as well as southern Indiana miners and practically made it impossible to maintain their prices. The late hour at which the Iowa and Rich Hill (Missouri) and the Arkansas miners quit work, and the refusal of Kansas, part of the Colorado miners and a few miners in southern Illinois to stop, made it difficult for us to achieve success in the West. Your national executive board and the district presidents were charged with a great and grave responsibility by the convention referring the whole matter connected with the set- tlement of the suspension into their hands. That they exer- cised their honest judgment and were prompted to action by pure motives and clear convictions of what was right and best for our craft’s interest is clearly demonstrated by the unan- imity of their vote in agreeing to the compromise price for mining and by the further fact that only one member out of the twenty-four upon the national committee has been known to declare that the decision reached — to accept a compromise price — was reached through corrupt and dishonest means. It is a sad commentary on the judgment of the delegates attending the Cleveland convention to think that they selected only one honest and incorruptible man and twenty-three dis- honest and corruptible men to serve as national committee- men to protect miners’ interests. It is generally known that a “chain is no stronger than its weakest link,” and to any one familiar with miners and their environments it should not be difficult to comprehend ^ and appreciate the fact that the strength of our general movement for higher prices had to be measured by the strength of our weakest competitive districts, and it was this standard of measurement that guided your national committee in their work. I believe the members of the national committee, with one exception, were prompted by honest convictions; at least, speaking for myself, I have performed my duty as I under- stand it, and have no regrets to offer and no apology to make for my official work either before, during or since the suspen- sion. The suspension demonstrated amongst other things that 364 United Mine Workers of America such a movement has accomplished its end whenever the markets are cleared of all surplus coal, and an attempt to prolong a suspension beyond that point for the purpose of securing a general settlement of all districts simply means an overreaching of its legitimate work and not only courts but in- sures failure. The situation is critical in the extreme and in times like the present there is danger from too much legislation by a national convention of our craft, because our people are too prone to allow their wants and their desires to bring forward experimental schemes for relief of conditions which only busi- ness changes can effect. Suffering men scarcely ever reason with business sagacity, but rather jump at conclusions, and, whether right or wrong everything and everyone that runs counter to their desires is considered as unfriendly and hostile to their interests and as often condemned. It is to this spirit of unrest born of suffering and sorrow that much of the agita- tion against officials is due. I desire to emphasize the necessity of curbing this virulent tendency on part of our craftsmen, because I sincerely believe that unless it be done your cause will be weakened by the driv- ing of every honest, conscientious man from official position in your ranks. In conclusion, gentlemen, permit me to say that your na- tional executive board last month, w'hen accepting my resig- nation of the presidency of your organization, stipulated that I prepare and deliver the annual address to this convention, and in completing that duty I express the hope that your de- liberations will be marked by that wisdom required to ex- tricate your craftsmen from the necessity of depending upon charity to sustain life. John McBride. SECRETARY’S REPORT. The secretary’s report contained valuable suggestions on the necessity for renewed vigor to secure a foothold in the an- thracite and Pocahontas coal fields. He said the year had ended dark and stormy ; that discontent and disunion were the natural fruits of defeat and advised caution against any ac- tion being taken that would intensify rather than mitigate the deplorable condition of the miners represented. The price of mining, he said, was low, and in many cases on a lower basis than when the delegates met in 1894, but that the membership was larger than at any time since the national union was organized. The secretary reported a total income of $28,847.06, and Reports of President and Secretary 365 an expenditure of $28,350.23, leaving a balance of $496.83 in the treasury January 1, 1895. After making a complete audit of the detailed receipts and expenses made out by the secretary, the auditors closed their report as follows : In conclusion, we will say that as a craft we can be proud of our officers and the workings of our secretary, Mr. Mc- . Bryde, and his able assistant, George Douglas. All bills and all credits were on file, every one of which was itemized so as to show us where every cent of the money expended had gone. Whether the present secretary is retained or not, the one who gets it will go into an office of which he may well be proud. Fred Dilcher, Charles Call, Auditors. The reports of John McBride, President, and Patrick Mc- Bryde, secretary, were referred to the proper committees and printed copies distributed among the delegates present. After the reports of the ex-president and secretary had been received and referred. President Penna said: I pre- sume that it would now be in order to hear the report of the executive board. There has been one thing referred to us by Mr. Adams and we have not yet taken action on it, but place it entirely in the hands of this convention. The following are the charges of Mr. Adams, contained in the following letter : Jacksonville, Ohio, February 6. Mr. P. H. Penna, President U. M. W. of A. : Dear Sir — Your letter of January 29 to me received, and as per your request to reduce the charges to writing, in com- pliance with Article VI, Section 4, of the constitution, I beg to say that I am determined that nothing on my part shall stand in the way of a full and fair investigation by the con- vention, and so I herein charge that the settlement of last June was brought about by corruption; that it was in direct violation of the instructions of the national conventions held at Columbus and Cleveland ; that the parties who signed the agreement are and have been since that time an injury to organized labor. This, with the statement already made by me is sufficient for constitutional requirements. And now, sir, as all of your letters to me have been out in the press before I received then through the mail, I ask 366 United Mine Workers of America you, if it suits you, to give this also to the press, as I am too busy to send anything more for publication. I am about tired of sensationalism, but I may say this to you, that the much vaunted assassination which you talk of will be explained in such a way as to bring discomfiture to you and your col- leagues or allies. A. A. Adams. W. B. Wilson stated that ex-President McBride had evi- dently by a mistake omitted one part of the resolution adopted at the meeting of executive board and district presidents, passed at the meeting of June 5, to the effect that no settle- ment should be made until all districts had a chance to settle. Mr. McBride accepted Wilson’s correction. The charges made by A. A. Adams created a feeling of unrest among the delegates, and questions rather hard to ex- plain were propounded on all sides until time for adjournment. On re-assembling Wednesday morning President Penna announced that National Trades Assembly No. 135 would meet at about 8 p. m. In accordance with a resolution passed a stenographer had been engaged to make a verbatim report of the proceedings in which so many delegates and officers had taken part, including President Penna, John Kane, J. A. Crawford, Secretarj^ Mc- Bryde, Cameron Miller, John A. Cairns, W. H. Crawford and Patrick Hines. While the question was under consideration it was sug- gested that Brother Adams make his charges more specific against particular individuals, during which time Brother Adams said he “did not include in the charges anyone who was not in Columbus when the final settlement was made.” During the afternoon session James O’Conner, chairman pro tern., presided, and resolutions introduced were quite numerous, among which was the following by Delegate Hines : Resolved, That it be the verdict of this convention that the charges preferred by Mr. Adams are not sustained, either by affidavit or otherwise. The credentials committee, not yet having reported in full, repeated demands were made for their complete report before any vote was taken. The following report was then made : Proceedings 6th Annual Convention 367 District 1 — Evan Daniels, James Dorset, Martin J. Kelley, John Rinn, W. Anderson M. Dougherty, T. McGuire, John Bartles, David Lloyd, J. J. Quinn. District 2 — George Harris, T. R. Davis, John F. Bowser, T. A. Bradley, W. B. Wilson, Barney Rice. District 3 — James Williamson, D. Baughman. District 5 — George Wilson, Robert Watchorn, J. M. Larkin, C. Miller, Patrick Hines, William Warner, James Page, Wil- liam Darnley, C. Marshbank, Owen Cruse, Adam Fox, J. A. Cairns, Patrick McBryde, S. Allen, Patrick Dolan, T. Delp. District 6 — James Parks, Noah Powel, James Hardy, Fred Bysinger, W. C. Pearce, T. L. Lewis, J. McGucken, Richard Tippet, Daniel Baird, E. P. Miller, D. C. Jones, E. J. Cobb, C. H. Smith, William Nixon, Allen Neil, Ed. Murray, Ervin Nanna, Ed. Lawrence, F. Walker, A. F. Spitler, Peter Fors- back, John Adley, F. Collard, H. Mannenhall, Amos Baird, J. Romine, R. Spaulding, William Mclntire, Thomas W. Davis, W. Watkins, H. B. Jones, G. Ashman, T. H. Kennedy, J. Car- lisle, S. Longstreth, Alexander Brunton, L. W. Powell, M. K. Learned, Thomas Lawson, Alexander Johnson, J. Thompson, James McKee, John Dikes, Niel Elliot, Frank Tollett, Gabriel Thomas, Cyrus Rowe, W. H. Turner, Hugh McKenna, T. T. O’Malley, Jacob Collins, T. R. Jones, H. A. Fanning, James O’Hare, James W. Levering, Robert Austin, E. D. Elliott, Fred Dilcher, James Grinstead, C. P. Goldsmith, C. W. Fisher, M. J. Beatty, William E. Williams, William Richards, J. J. Eddy, Josiah Jones, W. H. Haskins, J. J. Sulzbach, Nickolas Hocking, John Thomas. District 8 — John Neal, John Hart. District 9 — Joseph Allen. District 11 — T. J. Roberts, Abe Bed well, Andrew Bates, Charles Wallace, J. E. Pipes, T. J. Jones, J. H. Kennedy, J. Gallagher, Mathew Raffle, Michael Maher, Daniel O’Leary, John Kane, P. H. Penna, G. W. Lackey, G. W. Purcell, W. Johnson. District 12 — Thomas Hall, James O’Conner, W. J. Guy- man, J. A. Crawford, R. Stanton. District 13 — R. Duncan, J. T. Clarkson, Julius Fromm, J. W. Reynolds, A. Conroy. District 17 — G. W. White, Thomas Farry, Henry Stephen- son. Jerre Meade. District 19— James Carter, J. W. Cox, W. C. Webb. District 25 — W. C. Warburton, J. W. Lawless. Convention adjourned. 368 United Mine Workers of America THURSDAY MORNING. The president called the convention to order at 8 :30. Delegate Lawson admonished the delegates to give the chair a better opportunity of presiding by not rising so often on dilatory motions. Mr. Goldsmith suggested that Mark Wild be extended the courtesy of this convention. Mr. Mark Wild took the floor. He said that money was used in the A. R. U. and that it was used through John Mc- Bride and that he (Mark Wild) received some of it. Mr. Wild said that he had received $600 from McBride. Delegate Dolan asked Mr. Wild if he understood him to say that John McBride had got money. Mr. Wild answered yes. And that he had got $600 from John McBride. After Delegate Hines had spoken in defense of his resolu- tion and Delegate Lewis had claimed four votes and a question being asked on credentials by Delegate Goldsmith, recess was taken to give time for John McBride to be sent for. After a few minutes John McBride entered the hall and took the floor. He defended his position, and while admitting that the money part of the statement was true, it required some explanation. He maintained that the strike of the rail- road employes had been settled before he gave Mark Wild money. He asked Mark Wild when he gave him the money and Mark Wild admitted that he had received the money three or four days after the strike was settled. Mr. McBride con- tinued to show that there was no incentive to give Mark Wild money, but to compensate him in more of a charitable way than anything else, seeing that he was a victimized man as a result of the strike. Delegate Brunton asked McBride who gave him that money. McBride refused to give the name of the donor to this convention in open session, but agreed to present the whole matter to a committee which, he said, the convention might select. And that he was willing to permit that committee to present the whole matter in a report to the convention. At this point the chair announced that the question before the house was Mr. Hines’ motion. Proceedings 6th Annual Convention 369 Motions, amendments and substitutes were presented, all tending to prove the desire to make a thorough investigation of the charges preferred, with the following result : Moved by P. Hines, of Pennsylvania, That, as delegates to the convention, now believing, no matter what our belief was heretofore, that having fully heard the accusations of Mr. Adams against the United Mine Workers’ officials as related by Mr. Adams, and also the defense made by the accused. Resolved, That it be the verdict of this convention that the charges preferred by Mr. Adams are not sustained either by affidavit or otherwise. The Hines motion as amended was adopted by the follow- ing vote : 98 for, 16 against, and 18 declining to vote. Moved, by Delegate Stephenson, That we resume the reg- ular order of business. Adopted. President Penna now resumed the chair, and appointed as committee on machine scale, Fred Dilcher, H. Watkins, L. W. Powell and Cameron Miller, Ohio; James Gallagher, Indiana. On pick mining scale the following committee was ap- pointed: J. A. Crawford, Illinois; John Hart, Indiana; Alex Johnson and John Dykes, Ohio; George Wilson, Pittsburg, Pa.; George Harris, central Pennsylvania; Evan Daniels, an- thracite, Shamokin, Pa. ; T. Farry, West Virginia, and John Cox, District 19, Kentucky. Moved, by Delegate Lewis, That the committee as pre- sented be the committee of the convention. Adopted. Julius Fromm, of Iowa, was added to the committee on scale, and the convention adjourned. At the Friday morning session numerous resolutions were presented and adopted: Mine workers were not to become members of the state militia; on adding a benevolent feature to the organization, with a proviso that the methods agreed to be printed in the various foreign languages used by the members. The convention indorsed the anthracite Pennsylvania anti- company store bill; the Coyle mine commission bill, and the Anderson weigh bill for the miners of the Pittsburg district. The convention adjourned. 370 United Mine Workers of America In the afternoon Delegates Kelly, McGuire and Anderson, who had voted “No” on the Adams controversy the day before, said they “did not want to be on record as voting against the officials; they wanted the motion of Brother Hines to be adopted in its entirety.” Tom Davis gave a history of the system by which the miners were paid in the anthracite regions. Resolutions were adopted favoring eight hours as a legal day’s work through the introduction of bills in all state legis- latures, and that Congress enact a law making eight hours a legal day’s work. A resolution was also passed asking Governor Altgeld of Illinois to pardon John L. Gehr and other miners unjustly im- prisoned in the Illinois penitentiary. After the committee on constitution had reported resolutions were agreed to, making the president’s salary $1,200 per year and expenses; vice- president, $900, and secretary-treasurer, $1,000 per year. The national executive board members were to receive $2.50 per day and expenses when employed. Article III, Section 4, of the Constitution was further amended by adding: “And anj'’ local union or local assembly that may be in arrears for dues or assessments for three months preceding the month in which the national convention is held shall not be entitled to representation unless exonerated by the national executive board. Resolved, Any member of the United kline Workers ac- cepting a position in or around the mines other than that of a miner or mine laborer shall cease to be a member of the organization while holding such a position ; this not to apply to co-operative companies receiving the indorsement of the na- tional executive board. This resolution was adopted. Permission was granted to Robert Watchorn, as he was compelled to leave the city, to put his vote for officers in an envelope and leave it in the hands of the chairman. Convention then adjourned. Proceedings 6th Annual Convention 371 SATURDAY MORNING. Convention opened with President Penna in the chair. After considerable discussion and examination of wit- nesses, the following resolution was offered : Resolved, That your committee appointed to investigate the charge of corruption against John McBride by Mark Wild, after full investigation and hearing both sides, find John Mc- Bride not guilty. Patrick Dolan, Chairman, T. L. Lewis, Secretary, G. W. Purcell, John Neal, Miles Dougherty, J. W. Reynolds, Bernard Rice, James Carter, William C. Warburton, W. J. Guyman, David Baughman, Jerre Meade, Henry Stephenson, Joseph Allen, Adopted. J. W. Cox. On motion, the committee’s report was concurred in by a vote of 122 for, and 4 against. After several resolutions and amendments were acted upon, the following substitute was presented : Resolved, That we are satisfied that our officers have been honest and earnest in their work for the miners of this coun- try and we express our utmost confidence in them. Resolved, That Mark Wild be not permitted to enter this convention while it is in session. The substitute was adopted by a vote of 226 for and 731/2 against. On motion, the rules were suspended and the following officers were elected, Mike Maher and William Warner acting as tellers : P. H. Penna was elected President or Master Workman; Cameron Miller, Vice-President or Worthy Foreman; Patrick McBryde, Secretary-Treasurer. Convention adjourned. 372 United Mine Workers of America AFTERNOON SESSION. Considerable time was taken up at the afternoon session, in balloting for members of the executive board, after which the convention adjourned until Monday morning. MONDAY MORNING’S SESSION. President Penna called the convention to order and the re- sult of the balloting showed that the following were elected members of the National Executive Board : Fred Dilcher, W. C. Webb, J. A. Crawford, T. A. Bradley, John Fahy, J. W. Reynolds. Auditor: P. F. Hines. Delegates to the American Federation of Labor conven- tion : J. T. Clarkson, P. H. Penna, W. C. Pearce, Patrick Mc- Bryde. Alternate: John McBride, R. L. Davis, James O’Conner, Evan Daniels. It was moved that the convention confirms the action of National Trades Assembly 135 in withdrawing from the Gen- eral Assembly of the Knights of Labor. Motion was adopted and the convention adjourned. At the afternoon session the committee on scale advised that the matter be deferred for future consideration, which was agreed to. A resolution was passed that the annual convention be held on the second Tuesday in April, 1896. Report of A. F. of L. delegates read and accepted, and a well deserved tribute of respect paid to Michael F. Moran, deceased, as follows : Whereas, Since we last met in annual convention death has invaded our ranks and removed one of our most energetic workers, Michael Moran, of Wheeling, West Virginia; there- fore, be it Resolved, That we extend our heartfelt sjunpathy to his wife and family, and that we request all delegates present, that, when they return home, they call the attention of their locals to the fact that after all the work done by our late brother, Michael F. Moran, for our organization, his family is destitute and we ought to extend to them practical sjunpathy in the way of financial aid, and that all aid be sent to the gen- eral office. Convention Sub-District 1, District 6 373 The sentiments expressed in the addresses made by ex- President McBride and Secretary McBryde were indorsed, the delegates’ mileage paid, after which a few matters left over were referred to the executive board and the convention ad- journed. P. H. Penna, President or Master Workman, Patrick McBryde, Secretary-Treasurer. ANNUAL CONVENTION OF SUB-DISTRICT 1, DISTRICT 6. Meeting and proceedings of the second annual convention of Sub-district 1 of District 6, United Mine Workers of Amer- ica, held in the Knights of Labor Opera House, Shawnee, Ohio, March 5 and 6, 1895. Owing to the absence of Isaac Jones, President, the convention was called to order by John J. Eddy, Vice-President, and I. N. Coleman, Secretary-Treasurer. The following committees were appointed : On creden- tials, Thomas Taylor, New Straitsville ; G. W. Pearce, Nelson- ville; Brearley Bennett, Jacksonville. On election of officers, J. D. Gilliam, Glenn Ebon; J. T. Joyce, Shawnee; Samuel Peach, Glouster. On rules and order of business, J. L. Sargent, Buchtel; James Pritchard, Hemlock; J. W. Romine, Dicksonton. The committee on rules and order of business made the fol- lowing report: 1. Report of committee on credentials. 2. Report of committee on election of officers. 3. The convention to adjourn at 12 m., to convene at 1 p. m. 4. The report of committee on resolutions. 5. That no delegate speak more than once on the same question without permission of the chair, and all speeches to be limited to five minutes. J. L. Sargent, James Pritchard, J. W. Romine, Committee. After adopting the report of the committee on rules and order of business, the convention adjourned. 374 United Mine Workers of America Convention convened at 1 o’clock p. m., with Isaac Jones, President, in the chair. The chairman appointed the follow- ing committees : On Resolutions — Robert Gollop, G. W. Walker, Lewis Vaughn, Michael Sweeney, Harry Jones. On Grievances — D. S. Edwards, Henry Colley, S. R. Helm, John Terry, George Wend. On Constitution — George Scott, Brearley Bennett, J. W. Pearce, James Pritchard, Isaac Decker. Auditing Committee — D. S. Edwards, Henry Colley, S. R. Helm, Brearley Bennett. The following is the report of the committee on credentials of delegates entitled to a seat and vote in this convention; George Wend, G. W. Pearce, Lewis Vaughn, Nelsonville; James Pritchard, Hemlock; J. W. Pearce, Blatchford; J. D. Gilliam, Hamley Run ; D. S. Edwards, George Scott, W. Shell- ton, John T. Joyce, Edward Davis, Harry Jones, Robert Gol- lop, Michael Gallagher, John Vaughn, George Moulton, Samuel Philips, Shawnee; George W. Walker, Roseville; J. W. Butter- worth, Monday; S. R. Helm, New Pittsburg; Samuel Peach, Derthick; Henry Colley, Hollister; James Conkel, Sand Run; Thomas Taylor, Straitsville ; John Romine, Dicksonton; Zoath Hammond, Murray City; J. S. Sargent, Buchtel; Brearley Bennett, Jacksonville; Michael Sweeney, Daleton; John Terry, Lost Run; Isaac Decker, Utley; Isaac Jones, Glouster. Brearley Bennett, Thomas Taylor, G. W. Pearce,- Committee. Total number of delegates, 32 ; members represented, 4,120. At the opening of the convention the delegates from Dick- sonton, Hemlock, Derthick and Utley presented their votes of their respective locals for sub-district officers and members of the executive board. Report of the committee on elections : For President of Sub-District 1 — W. E. Farms. For Vice-President — John J. Eddy. For Secretary-Treasurer — W. H. Haskins. For Member of Executive Board — W. H. Crawford. Convention Sub-District 1, District 6 375 Moved, That the report be accepted. Adopted. Motion, That the election of W. E. Farms as President, John J. Eddy as Vice-President, and W. H. Haskins as Secre- tary-Treasurer be made unanimous. Adopted. Report of committee on constitution was acted upon seri- atim. Motion, That the constitution be adopted as a whole. Adopted. Motion, That the convention go into executive session on discussion of contract and lease system of mining. Adopted. The following resolutions were agreed to : Resolved, That we, the delegates now assembled in conven- tion, demand that our national, state and sub-district officials see that the scale prices for mining and mine labor agreed upon by the operators and miners’ officials be lived up to at all mines during the present scale year ; That the district and sub-district officers meet together and formulate a scale of prices to govern all coal below a certain height ; That the question of docking be left in the hands of the district and sub-district officers to formulate a uniform system of docking throughout the sub-district ; That where an operator owns or controls more than one mine that on the closing down of one mine he or they shall dis- tribute the men in the other mine. Whereas, We, as representatives of the miners of the four counties, Muskingum, Perry, Hocking, and Athens, are here assembled to devise ways and means for our future welfare and home comfort, knowing full well and keenly feeling the deplorable condition of our craft, also sensible to the fact that by the force of circumstances we are so hemmed in that it is little, indeed, we can do to extricate ourselves from this very undesirable state of affairs, and Whereas, we, as a body of miners, bearing and forbearing, hoping against hope, have been dragging out an existence un- worthy the name of living for many, many months, looking forward for a clearer sky, and more prosperous times, but as yet there is no rift in the clouds. While we dee'ply deplore such a state of stagnation, and while it is painful in the ex- treme to be robust and able-bodied and not able to find em- ployment, yet such is the case; we are children of circum- stances in this particular over which we have no control. But we, as miners, know as soon as our condition became known, just as soon as it reached the throbbing hearts of our fellow citizens through the call of our worthy governor, W. McKin- 376 United Mine Workers of America ley, without hesitancy, without a murmur, came the hearty re- sponse of our fellow citizens ; therefore, be it Resolved, That this convention extend to all, from the gov- ernor down to the smallest child who gave or took any part in our welfare, the deepest expression of our thanks and ap- preciation ; hoping, however, that in the very near future trade will revive and the country in general settle down to a normal condition, so that we all can be self-supporting. Resolved, That all locals in Sub-district 1 be compelled to pay their dues to the sub-district secretary, according to the amount of per capita tax stated in the constitution. All locals failing to pay their dues to the sub-district will not be allowed a vote or voice in the state convention of the United Mine Workers of America. Resolved, That the following telegram be sent to the miners of District No. 5 : “Shawnee, Ohio, March 6, 1895. “To John Cairns, President of District 5, U. M. W. of A., Pitts- burg, Pa. : “We the miners of Athens, Hocking, Perry and Muskingum counties, composing Sub-district 1 of District 6, United Mine Workers of America, in convention assembled, send congratu- lations to the miners of District 5 for the stand they have taken to enforce the 69-cent scale rate. Wishing them success, “Yours fraternally, “Isaac Jones, President. “John J. Eddy, Vice-President, “I. N. Coleman, Secretary-Treasurer.” We, your committee, having audited the secretary -treas- urer’s books, beg leave to report as follows : Balance in treas- ury third quarter, $114.69; receipts from all locals, $227.95; total, $342.64. Expenditures — Isaac Jones, services, $40.75; John J. Eddy, $107.55 ; I. N. Coleman, expenses and sundries, $100.07 ; de- ducting expenditures, $257.37, leaves a balance of $85.27. D. S. Edwards, B. Bennett, S. R. Helm, Auditing Committee. Resolved, That three copies of the sub-district constitution be sent to each local. Iowa Joint Conference, 1895 377 The next semi-annual convention of Sub-district No. 1 of District 6 will be held in New Straitsville, September 3, 1895. Isaac Jones, President, John J. Eddy, Vice-President, I. N. Coleman, Secretary-Treasurer. Convention adjourned. IOWA JOINT CONFERENCE. Ottumwa, Iowa, March 29, 1895. At a conference of miners and operators held in this city today it was practically decided to call out 6,000 miners now working in the mines of forty-two operators who refuse to pay the 1894 scale of prices, 80 cents and $1 for mining coal. The operators in the conference, twenty-three in number, will pay this scale. The men who will strike are mostly in Appa- noose, Boone and Polk counties. This strife is not only between the miners in certain parts of the state, but among the operators themselves. The most of the trouble is in the Appanoose district, where all the companies but the Whitebreast and Centerville Block com- panies have posted notices that, beginning April 1, the scale would be 70 cents for the summer. Companies like those mentioned and those about Ottumwa, who are paying the standard scale of wages, object seriously to the competition of those companies in the Appanoose, Polk and Boone dis- tricts, who pay but 70 and 80 cents. Julius Fromm, Seymour; J. W. Reynolds, Beacon; T. J. Cavanaugh, and L. Clark- son, Foster, represented the miners, being the executive committee of District 13, United Mine Workers of America. The operators were George W. Trear, vice-president of the Whitebreast Fuel Company; H. L. Waterman, general man- ager of the Wapello Coal Company; Henry Phillips, president of the Phillips Fuel Company; Alexander Dargavle of the Centerville Block Coal Company; John C. Evans, Smoky Hol- low Coal Company, and T. J. Phillips, general superintendent of the Whitebreast Company. The meeting was for the purpose of indorsing the pro- ceedings of the minority convention held at Des Moines, March 7, when 23 operators wanted to return to the scale of 378 United Mine Workers of America 1894 — viz., 80 cents and $1 — for mining coal, and 40 were in favor of a uniform scale of 70 and 80 cents all over the state. The operators were so emphatic in their ratification of their former stand that the miners are sure of their moral support in the coming crisis. CHAPTER XVIII. SIXTH ANNUAL CONVENTION OF DISTRICT SIX. Columbus, Ohio, April 2, 1895. Convention called to order at 10:30 by President Adams. The first business was the report of the committee on credentials, who, making a partial report, recommended the adoption of what they had read, saying they would hold the contested seats till later on. A good deal of discussion took place on the question of representation of No. 4 mine, Jackson- ville. Motion, That both delegates be seated and the vote be divided equally between them. Adopted. The committee on credentials reported a case from Shawnee of a contested delegation. Chairman Farms said that it appears that four of the delegates from Shawnee were elected by the mass meeting from one mine. This was not satisfactory and the other miners had held meetings and elected other delegates; all the credentials had the seal on and the committee placed the matter before the convention. John Nugent explained his own case and that of two other delegates. A delegate objected to Nugent speaking in the convention on the grounds of not being a member of the organization. Nugent vehemently denied that he was not a member and was allowed to proceed by the chairman. He said that he represented men who were engaged in leased mines, thinking that that matter would come up and they wanted to be heard on this subject. He said he was willing to leave the five delegates elected at the mass meeting on all matters except the question of the lease system. Sixth Annual Ohio Convention 379 He said, if this convention said that the co-operative or lease system should continue they would continue it, but if not, they were willing to quit. He said he was not now em- ployed by Mr. Turney, but was president of a co-operative company at Shawnee, Ohio. Mr. Jones asked Mr. Nugent the question: Will you, Mr. Nugent, if the co-operative company falls through at the XX mine, then go back and work for Mr. Turney? Mr. Nugent answered that he had no string to Mr. Turney, and that if the XX mine did not start up by May 1 he would have to go to other parts to look for a job. Mr. Jones said he was willing to give the other delegates seats if possible. Delegate Moulton denied that XX was a co-operative mine. He said the number of men there was limited to 100 men, who had deposited $5 each. Moved, That each mine be allowed to cast its vote sepa- rately from Shawnee. Adopted. Motion to adopt committee’s report on credentials, was carried. Following is a list of delegates : J. B. Hutchinson, E. H. Elliott, James Sutton, G. W. Pearce, Alex. Dunlap, Wm. Mc- Intyre, John N. Davis, John Whalen, Henry Shires, John Lewis, Sherman Glasgow, E. A. Evans, L. Albaugh, W. H. Householder, R. F. Wallace, Geo. Stanford, T. L. Lewis, J. W. Romine, Alex Brunton, James P. Turvey, James Valentine, C. P. Ray, W. H. Haskins, James McKee, Michael Ratchford, F. Tollett, Esrial Richards, T. T. O’Malley, T. B. Skinner, T. B. Patrick, Jenkin Reece, Robert Austin, James Carlisle, Richard Jenkins, Donald McDonald, Ralph Mason, Wm. P. Friday, Jacob Collins, Neal Elliott, W. C. Pearce, W. H. Craw- ford, L. W. Powell, M. K. Learned, Samuel Dorn, C. L. Kimes, J. W. Fickle, W. H. Turner, John Carr, R. L. Davis, James Hennesy, T. R. Jones, Elza McCullough, Wm. Simons, David Murray, W. Swiers, John Lenox, W. E. Steadman, W. E. Farms, John H. Barnes, Richard Neason, Geo. Ashman, Cameron Miller, H. A. Banning, R. R. Channell, Brearley Bennett, John Griffiths, Benjamin Evans, Lewis Harris, Wil- liam Richards, Geo. W. Moulton, David J. Jones, F. R. Me- 380 United Mine Workers of America Lean, Charles Bailey, Thomas J. Davis, W. H. Gallagher, Peter Smith, John Myers, C. C. Chaney, Jas. Pritchard, Jos. Sanderson, Nat Skiles, George Stanford, G. S. Thompson, John Myers, John Thomas, Thomas Moulton, Henry Ham- mond, Harry Jones, A. B. Ferguson. The chair appointed committee on order of business as follows; Nat Skiles, J. B. Hutchinson, John Myers, James McKee and Wm. P. Friday. Moved to adjourn. Adopted. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Adams called the convention to order and the committee on order of business reported as follows : 1. Time of meeting, 8 a. m. ; adjourn, 12 noon; recon- vene, 1 :30 p. m. ; adjourn, 5 p. m. 2. Report of committee on credentials. 3. Report of officers and report of auditing committee. 4. Report of committee on resolutions. 5. Report of committee on grievances. 6. Report of committee on constitution. 7. Election of officers. 8. Report of committee on leased mines. 9. Report of committee on scale. 10. Miscellaneous business. 11. No delegate be allowed to speak on any question more than 5 minutes. Report of committee adopted. The following telegram was received by President Adams : Pittsburg, Pa., April 2, 1895. A. A. Adams, Miners’ Convention, Columbus, Ohio. Executive board meeting District No. 5 preparing for victory. Wish your convention harmonious success. John A. Cairns. The chair appointed the following committee on resolu- tions: Henry Shires, H. A. Banning, S. Glasgow, John Thomas, Geo. Ashman. On constitution: W. H. Crawford, Peter Smith, John L. Davis, James Ballantine, C. L. Kimes. The report of President Adams was read and gave a de- tailed account of his work in adjusting differences, and the report of Secretary Pearce dealt largely with the financial Sixth Annual Ohio Convention 381 condition of district No. 6 as per the following report made by the auditors : Columbus, Ohio, April 2, 1895. To the Miners of Ohio, Greeting : In compliance with the resolution adopted at our annual convention held in Columbus, Ohio, April 1891, we the com- mittee chosen for that purpose have audited the books and accounts of Mr. W. C. Pearce, secretary-treasurer, for the half year ending March 31, 1895, and find the same to be correct in every particular. The total income for the last year, we find to be $5,801.48 ; total expenses, $5,370.77 ; balance on hand April 1, 1895, $430.71. In submitting this report, this committee begs leave to congratulate the miners of Ohio on their financial standing as compared with the last report October 1, 1894. We also found the books of the secretary kept in a neat and orderly manner. All bills were itemized according to the constitu- tion and found correct. And we believe the business of the organization was conducted economically and to ihe best interests of all the members. John Phillipson, A. J, Carr, Henry Mullen, Auditing Committee. • Committees were appointed as follows : On officers’ reports: Brearly Bennett, Robert Wallace, T. L. Lewis. On Scale: For Sub-district 1, H. A. Banning, Richard Newsham; 2, Henry Shires, T. R. Jones; 3, M. Ratchford, J. N. Davis ; 4, James Ballantine ; 5, Frank Tollett. On Grievance: William Farms, R. E. Jones, George Staunton, T. B. Patrick, R. L. Davis. On train fare rebate : P. McBryde, T. L. Lewis, and W. E. Farms. Convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by President Adams. Roll was called and absentees noted. The secretary distributed copies of the minutes of Tuesday’s session. Cameron Miller addressed the convention on the situa- tion in the Pittsburg district, going very minutely into every detail in connection with the struggle there. 382 United Mine Workers of America Whereas, A differential of 9 cents a ton has been es- tablished by joint agreement, and the miners of the Pitts- burg district are engaged in a strike for the maintenance of that differential; therefore, be it Resolved, That we encourage them in their fight for their just rights, and we urge them not to recede from their pres- ent stand, and we shall do all in our power to assist them, and in maintaining them in their struggle to secure their price. Adopted. Apropos the foregoing, the following dispatch was sent to District President Cairns : Columbus, Ohio, April 5, 1895. John A. Cairns, Excelsior Building, Pittsburg, Pa. : Ohio miners’ convention urges District 5 not to recede from present demand, promising all the assistance in our power to help maintain the price. A. A. Adams, W. C. Pearce. Report of committee on constitution. The constitution was taken up seriatim. The committee’s report was being made when the con- vention adjourned for dinner. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Adams in the chair. Moved, That H. Mullen, John Phillipson, J. A. Carr and all other miners be alowed a voice in the convention. Carried. The report of the committee on constitution was taken up. Resolved, That we add to the constitution the following, and make it Section 3 of Article 4 : “When it becomes neces- sary for the district president to close a mine, or when a mine or mines from some other legitimate cause has been forced closed down, said officer may, if he deems it wise, close even- other mine in Ohio, or may distribute those idle men into any other mine or mines in the district in which said mine or mines so closed may be situated.” And that Section 3 be changed to Section 4. Adopted. The committee on officers’ reports reported the following in line with the recommendations of the state president ; Sixth Annual Ohio Convention 383 1. That the scale committee adjust to the best of their ability the differences between the machine and pick mining rate. 2. We recommend that the constitution remain as at present, so far as the restriction placed on our officials tak- ing part in politics is concerned. 3. We favor a closer alliance with the railroad employes along such lines as is consistent with the constitution of the United Mine Workers of America. 4. Brother Adams, having given a satisfactory expla- nation in regard to the objections raised by Brother Wallace, we have nothing to recommend in that matter. T. L. Lewis, B. Bennett, R. F. Wallace. The committee’s report was adopted. Election of officers. A delegate arose and moved. That the auditing committee’s report be adopted. Carried. Brother Farms and John Thomas were appointed assist- ant tellers. T. W. Davis and G. W. Pearce withdrew their names as candidates for president, and the following officers were elected: For president, M. Ratchford; for vice-president, Henry Shires. The convention then adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING. Convention called to order at 8 a. m.. President Adams in the chair. Election of secretary -treasurer : W. C. Pearce was de- clared duly elected. Executive Board: Sub-district 1, W. H. Crawford; Sub- district 2 was referred back to the sub-district; Sub-district 3, J. N. Davis; Sub-district 4, Jas. McKee was elected tem- porarily as this sub-district had not as yet made a choice; Sub-district 5 elected C. H. Smith. Motion that this convention ratify the selection of the executive board as far as gone. Carried. Auditors elected were as follows: C. L. Kimes, Sherman Glasgow, J. J. Eddy. 384 United Mine Workers of America Moved, That we go into executive session. Carried. Moved, That Brothers R. J. Jones, H. A. Banning and W. E. Farms escort the newly elected officers to their respective chairs. Carried. President-elect Ratchford addressed the convention briefly and thanked all for his election; as also did Shires and Pearce. Report of committee on leased mines by W. H. Craw- ford, was called for. Brother F. Dilcher, also one of this committee, was not present. The report was put off until the arrival of Brother Dilcher. President Penna wired for Dilcher. Report of scale committee : Motion, That the report be taken up seriatim. Carried. Resolved, That we defer the making of a scale, together with the equalization of all local or sub-district matters that pertain to the price of mining in Ohio, till some future time. Adopted. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Ratchford in the chair. Further report of the committee on resolutions: Whereas, The Coshocton miners have been on a strike since February 11, in trying to maintain the 15 cents differ- ential above Hocking Valley; also, resisting a demand from operators to deliver coal on entry to haulers; therefore, be it Resolved, That we, the delegates in convention of district 6, highly commend them for their noble stand, and extend our sympathy and aid in all ways possible under our existing conditions. Adopted as read. Whereas, The usual depression of the coal trade during the winter of 1894-5, entailed suffering, want and starvation upon thousands of our fellow craftsmen in Ohio and particularlj" in the Hocking Valley; Whereas, It became necessary to appeal for aid from other sources than our own organization; Whereas, Governor McKinley responded promptly to our appeal for aid ; Resolved, That we tender a vote of thanks to Governor McKinley, the citizens of Ohio, all fraternities and organiza- Sixth Annual Proceedings, District 6 385 tions and individuals who responded so promptly to the cries for help from our fellow craftsmen ; and be it further Resolved, That these resolutions be engrossed' upon the minutes of this convention, and a copy sent to Governor Mc- Kinley. Moved, To adopt as read. Adopted. The committee on constitution then resumed its report. Moved, That Section 6 of Article 7 be changed to read: “The initiation fee shall be left with each local or sub-dis- trict to decide, but in no case shall it be less than $1 ; any person applying for work at any organized mine shall present a union card; in case any person cannot present such union card, he shall be compelled to pay his initiation fee.” This was recommended by the committee. Moved, To amend recommendation by inserting United Mine Workers’ card for union card. The amendment to the recommendation was adopted. The motion as amended was adopted. Motion to adjourn. Carried. FRIDAY MORNING. Convention called to order at 8 a. m., by President Ratch- ford. The chair declared the order of business to be the report of the committee who investigated the system of leasing mines by miners in the Hocking Valley. W. H. Crawford and Fred Dilcher made their report, which was very elaborate in its details, reading many of the contracts between the lessees and lessors. The making of the report took up nearly the whole of the forenoon session, after which the following resolution, which was tabled on Wed- nesday, was taken up, viz. : Whereas, It has been brought to the notice of this con- vention, what is known as co-operation or lease system of minps in District 6, United Mine Workers of America, and Whereas, We believe it to be an injustice to us as an or- ganized body; therefore be it Resolved, That we in convention condemn all such work, knowing it will bring bad feeling and demoralization in our ranks. 386 United Mine Workers of America The consideration of the foregoing preamble and resolu- tion was pending when the hour for adjournment arrived. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Ratchford called the convention to order, and stated that the representatives of the operators of Ohio, Illi- nois and Indiana had met this morning in the Deshler Block, with President Penna, Secretary McBryde and himself (Presi- dent Ratchford), and after an informal conference, which re- sulted in no action being taken toward any basis of joint con- vention for the settlement of prices for next year, Mr. Mor- ton expressed a desire to meet with the Ohio miners in con- vention in the afternoon. Moved, That the courtesies of the convention be extended to Mr. Morton and that we meet him at 3 p. m. Carried. Secretary Pearce notified Mr. Morton to be present at the appointed hour. Discussion on the lease system was resumed, and the fol- lowing substitute for the resolution before the house was pre- sented to the convention. Whereas, A great deal of trouble has arisen in the Hocking Valley and other sections of this district owing to the con- tract or lease system now in vogue ; and Whereas, We believe said system as is now in practice is detrimental to the interests of our craft and injurious to the welfare of our organization ; and Whereas, We favor the co-operative system when carried out according to its correct meaning ; therefore be it Resolved, That we discountenance, condemn and denounce any person or persons connected in any way with any concern not in conformity with rules and regulations of our organ- ization. Resolved, That we favor and encourage any and all who may wish to engage in co-operative mines as long as they hold themselves strictly in conformity with the rules and regula- tions of our organization by paying scale rates for all labor in or around such mines. Resolved, That the executive board shall determine upon the validity and good intentions of such mines. The substi- tute was adopted, with John Thomas voting no. Carried. The committee on constitution again resumed its report. Sixth Annual Proceedings, District 6 387 Moved, to amend Section 3 of Article 5 of the constitution by striking out the words “having less than 30 members,” on the 10th, 11th lines. Adopted. Resolved, That the following shall be Section 3 of Article 10: “On and after June 1, 1895, each Local Union must be pro- vided with a seal of the United Mine Workers of America, and no card or communication shall be recognized unless the seal of the local be attached.” Adopted. Complaint was made to the convention about a misrepre- sentation which appeared yesterday evening in the Post-Press regarding Fred Dilcher, the same stating that Brother Dilcher dare not come to the convention owing to something he was reported to have said at Shawnee. The facts in the case were that Brother Dilcher came to the convention immediately upon being notified by President Penna. Moved, That it be the sense of this convention that the Post-Press has done Mr. Dilcher an injustice. Carried. All the committees having reported, on motion they were discharged. Having 30 minutes to spare before the time for the arrival of Mr. Morton, a motion was adopted to hear the retiring officers. Brother Adams was called on and in a few appropriate remarks wished President Ratchford a prosperous year, and promised his assistance in every shape and form for the bene- fit of the miners of Ohio. Brother R. L. Davis was next called on and thanked the miners of district 6 for the complimentary vote he had re- ceived and promised to continue his untiring efforts for and loyalty to the organization. Brother Glasgow also thanked the miners of Ohio, and said that his actions would speak for themselves and that he would continue to do all he could for the miners of Ohio. Brother C. P. Ray also thanked all and hoped for better times in the future. He would continue to co-operate with 388 United Mine Workers of America the officers and friends of the organization in every possible way in which their efforts were directed in behalf of our craftsmen. Brother W. H. Crawford said he had served only one year as member of the board, and as far as he knew he had acted fairly and honestly in every matter he had to deal with dur- ing that time, and that he would continue to follow principles in preference to prejudices or individuals. He thanked the miners of Ohio for their expression of confidence and for the honor conferred on him. Secretary Pearce said that after almost five years of con- tinual service, it was pleasing to know that the highest com- mendation of his services possible had been given, in that he was again elected to such a position of trust and honor, as secretary-treasurer of district 6. He said he had always en- deavored to do his duty, and that were he to be called upon to re-enact every official act of his now nearly five years’ service, he could not do anything other than he had done. He thanked the miners of Ohio for their renewed expression of confidence, and promised to be as prompt as ever. Three o’clock having arrived, Mr. Morton, with Messrs. Thomas Johnson, Courtwright and Stone, entered the hall. Mr. Morton was introduced and said in substance: “The operators of Illinois, Indiana and Ohio met in conference this morning, and his (Mr. Morton’s) presence before the miners convention was the result of that conference. He showed how the Pittsburg operators were cutting prices, and how Ohio was suffering as a result of their competition. “Up to this time,” he said, “the Ohio operators had not made any contracts for lake shipments, nor were they likely to under present conditions. “Suppose,” said he, “that I make a prop- osition here, to maintain the differential of nine cents, what would you say, though it were necessary to come down to 30 or 35 cents.” Could this be done he believed that the Pitts- burg operators would be willing enough then to meet in joint convention to make prices that would afford a better wage to miners and better profits to operators. He blamed Mr. DeArmit in particular for the unfortunate condition of af- fairs. Joint Conferences, Ohio and Illinois 389 President Penna asked the following question of Mr. Mor- ton : “In the event, Mr. Morton, of the Ohio miners agree- ing to such a proposition as that, what guarantee have they that you, as operators of Ohio, would not simply pocket the profits, without in the least benefiting the miners?” Mr. Morton answered as follows : “In case such a propo- sition is agreed to we will guarantee to sell the coal for the cost on cars at the mines.” Mr. Penna said, “If the miners of Ohio agree to go into a war (and it is war) would the operators require a contract for any length of time?” Mr. Morton answered, “No, we would not require a con- tract; only a notice of about ten days’ time.” A delegate asked Mr. Morton if such a proposition was agreed to, would the supplies, house rent, etc., be reduced. Mr. Morton answered for his own company that in such case he believed he voiced the sentiments of his company, that they would reduce house rent 50 per cent. Operator Johnson was next called on. He said the mem- bers of the Ohio Coal Association were friendly to the miners of the state, and believed Mr. Morton was advising them for their own good, and hoped they would consider it in the spirit in which it was offered. A delegate asked Mr. Johnson: “Is this cheap coal for all markets?” Mr. Johnson answered: “No, only for lake shipments.” Mr. Courtright was called on and substantiated what his fellow operators had said and believed Mr. Morton’s suggestion was the only cure for the evil. The operators here withdrew from the hall. President Ratchford addressed a few well chosen remarks to the con- vention, after which the convention adjourned sine die. JOINT CONVENTION OF NORTHERN ILLINOIS OPER- ATORS AND MINERS. Joliet, Illinois, April 22, 1895. At a joint meeting of coal operators and miners held at Joliet, Illinois, April 22, 1895, the following was unanimously submitted to the miners for approval : 390 United Mine Workers of America Whereas, It is desired by both operators and miners to avoid disagreements and to establish the basis of a scale of wages which shall control during the year ending May 1, 1896. The desire and intent on both sides being to settle the basis without a stoppage of work, while at the same time the opera- tors shall be protected from loss of business by reduced wages in competitive fields, and the miners shall not be subjected to reductions, except for the purpose of protecting themselves and their employers from such competition : Resolved, That it is the sense of this meeting that the prices of mining in northern Illinois, for the year beginning May 1, 1895, under definite agreement to work throughout the year, shall be the scale for the year 1894, summer and winter. Provided, That should any decline from said 1894 scale take place in both the Hocking Valley and Indiana bituminous fields on or before July 1, 1895, or exist in either the Hocking Valley or Indiana bituminous field after July 1, 1895, that the price of mining in northern Illinois shall thereupon de- cline the same number of cents per ton from said scale, sum- mer and winter, to continue so long as such decline in the Hocking Valley or Indiana bituminous fields shall continue; Provided, however. That at no time during the year shall the price of mining in northern Illinois decline more than 9 cents per ton from said 1894 scale. It is understood and agreed that the companies whose names are hereto subscribed will honor the written orders of employes, on their pay, and turn over the amounts so col- lected to any duly authorized committee for payment of check- weighmen, or for state or national organization purposes. Such orders to hold good until revoked in writing, and to be so provided in the original orders. On April 29, 1895, a joint conference of operators and miners met at Terre Haute, Indiana, for the purpose of agree- ing upon a scale of prices to be paid from May 1, 1895, to April 30, 1896. About 30 miners’ delegates were present and a fair representation of operators, including I\Iessrs. Bogle, Talley, Seifert, Ogle, Yager, and Hawkins. President George W. Purcell called the miners conven- tion to order and appointed committees on order of business, scale, etc., preparatory to a meeting with the operators the same day. After holding afternoon and night meetings at which a general discussion of the situation was entered into, it was discovered that the joint meeting with operators could Joint Convention of Northern Illinois 391 not be held until April 30 at 9 a. m., and the miners’ conven- tion adjourned. The joint conference was organized on the morning of April 30, 1895, with operator Bogle as chairman and John H. Kennedy, miner, as secretary. The chairman, after explaining the object of the con- ference and a general interchange of views by the delegates on the situation, it was agreed to adjourn and appoint a scale committee from each side ready for the afternoon session. At the afternoon session the scale committee appointed consisted of Messrs. Bogle, Tally, Seifert, Ogle, Yager, and Hawkins, for the operators, and for the miners, Messrs. Stewart, Roberts, Sheffler, Nolan, Hobbs, Kennedy and Pur- cell. The Clinton miners were locked out and their opera- tors took no part in the joint conference. Chairman Bogle informed the meeting that the opera- tors had agreed that they would pay the prices paid at Grape Creek, Illinois; namely, 45 cents for screened coal and 33 cents for mine run coal. This the miners refused to consider, and offered the price agreed to at their convention; namely, 39Y2 cents mine run, to be the uniform price for the state where no deficiency existed. This being refused by the opera- tors after a little further discussion the joint committee ad- journed to hold a night session. On the report being made to the miners it was accepted and the miners’ committee ordered to settle on last year’s prices and conditions. At the night session the operators rejected the proposi- tion made by the miners and when one of the operators moved to adjourn it was seconded by a miner, and the joint confer- ence adjourned to meet at the call of the presidents. CONVENTION OF DISTRICT 25. Keystone, West Virginia, June 14, 1895. A convention was called for the benefit of the strikers. The delegates assembled and the meeting was called to order by W. C. Webb. The delegation follows : Robert Price, William Crow, M. H. Badgett, Shelton Crag- head, William Miller, James Fitzgerald, J. B. Lee, J. S. Porter, Morris Gunn, R. W. Morehead, W. C. Warburton, C. Lock, 392 United Mine Workers of America William Sisk, William Akins, Fred Knight, G. M. Robinson,. Alexander Adams, I. S. Wrin, William Minich, J. S. Wash- ington, W. M. Camplete, Isaac Allen, Samuel Cryder, Charles Huffman, G. M. Woody, W. H. Jones, Robert Sackett, J. H. Ross, R. D. Coles, James Anderson, J. H. Clark. Committees on resolutions, distribution, ways and means, were appointed and the meeting adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. At 1 :30 the house was called to order, with W. C. Webb in the chair. The committees were called to report: On distribution, the report was received. Committee on resolutions was called to make its report. First: That the operators would be sued and brought before a justice of the peace for dumping coal without being weighed. That each local should have their own committees appointed to indict the company for any violation of the laws of West Virginia. That we send three committees to Blue- field on ways and means; delegates W. C. Webb, W. C. War- burton and William Sisk, were elected to go to Bluefield. That we recommend the district secretary ask for aid through the United Mine Workers Journal. Convention adjourned. Keystone, West Virginia, June 18. The session was called together again with W. C. Webb, chairman. On motion there be no work done at all until the strike is settled, and if there is the names shall be published in the United Mine Workers Journal, Pemisylvania Gout, Blue- field Journal, Richmond Planet, Lynchburg News, and all other papers that will accept it, and also publish that the strike is not over yet at Pocahontas and Elkhorn. Adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Resolved, That the delegates of district 25, in convention assembled, declare we are in favor of scales to weigh coal, also two weeks payment in lawful money for work done, and recognition of the United Mine Workers of America and all Pratt, Alabama, Wage Scale, 1892-95. 393 members to have their work without prejudice in regard to the part taken in the strike. On motion resolution was adopted. Resolved, by this body, That district 25 employ a compe- tent attorney to push any and all indictments that may be found before the grand jury or otherwise relative to mining interests ; be it further Resolved, That the different local unions in Mercer county take steps to make similar indictments before the circuit court of said county, as the criminal judge of Mercer has declared screen law unconstitutional, which is reversing the decision of the supreme court of West Virginia. Resolution adopted. Moved, That Brother Webb stay with us until July 1. Car- ried. Motion, That the secretary have the constitution printed when he gets money. That the secretary must make a quarterly report and have it published in the United Mine Workers Journal. Adjourned. ! W. C. Webb, Chairman, A. B. Smoot, Secretary-Treasurer. DISTRICT 20, ALABAMA. PRATT WAGE SCALE 1892-1895. From Apr. 12. 1892 1893 1894 1895 Mining Run of Mine $0.45 $0.45 $0,374 $0,374 Heading 2.25 2.25 2.25 1.90 Air Course 1.00 1.00 1.00 .95 DAY WAGE SCALE. 1892 ■ 1893 1894 1895 Drivers $1.10 to 1.15 $1.10 to 1.15 $1.10 to 1.15 $1.10 Trackmen 1.95 1.85 Trackmen’s Helpers 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 Trappers .75 .65 Inside Engineers 1.50 Outside Engineers 62.50 per mo. Slope Chainers 1.25 1.20 Steam Pumpers 1.15 1.15 Furnace Firemen 1.10 1.05 Slope Repairmen 1.90 1.60 Dumpers 1.10 1.10 394 United Mine Workers of America 1892 1893 1894 1895 Scalers 1.00 1.00 Tip jMiddlemen 1.00 1.00 Coupler .75 .65 Greaser .75 .65 Pin Puller 1.15 1.15 R. R. Car Loader 1.05 1.05 Rlacksmith 2.00 2.00 Blacksmith Helpers 1.15 1.15 Miner on Company Work 2.25 1.96 Stable Men 1.00 1.00 J. E. LAMA AGREEMENT. Nelsonville, Ohio, June 25, 1895. Agreement arrived at this date by and between J. E. Lama and his employes : That all employes that were engaged by Bartell & Spencer in the early part of June, 1895, are to resume their former places for J. E. Lama, and that the disposition of the present employes is to be left to the majority vote of the aforemen- tioned employes of said Bartell & Spencer. It is further agreed that, in case any of the late employes be rejected, that the said J. E. Lama shall have the right to prefer charges against any one of said employes of Bartell & Spencer for violation of union principle while wmrking for said Bartell & Spencer, and his case shall be dealt with in the manner provided for above, that is, for each one of said new employes who may have been disloyal to their union, J. E. Lama shall have the same right to make charges against any one of said old employes and the case shall be decided by the same body, viz., the majority of old employes. It is further agreed, that the question of checkweighman shall be decided after it has been determined who are en- titled to places at the mine. It is further agreed, that if an employe absents himself from the mine at any one time exceeding two days in suc- cession, that said J. E. Lama has the right to place another man in his working place, providing he fails to give due notice and excuse for the same. [Signed] J. E. Lama, for Bartell & Spencer, Agents, M. Ratchford, for the Miners. CHAPTER XIX. CONSTITUTION— DISTRICT NO. 1— ANTHRACITE. Article I — Name, Object and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This association shall be known as District 1, United Mine Workers of America, and shall embrace the an- thracite region. Section 2. The object of this association shall be to unite the mine employes of the anthracite region with the mine em- ployes of the country and ameliorate their condition by methods of conciliation, arbitration, or other lawful means. Section. 3. This association shall have jurisdiction over all locals of the United Mine Workers of America in this dis- trict. Article II — Officers. Section 1. The officers of this association shall be, president, vice-president and secretary-treasurer. Section 2. The executive board shall consist of seven members — the president, vice-president, secretary-treasurer and four other members who are to be elected in like manner as the district officers. Article III — Duties of Officers and Salaries. Section 1. The president shall preside at all district con- ventions of the district association. He shall sign all orders drawn on the district secretary-treasurer when satisfied of their correctness. He shall, with the consent of the majority of the executive board, fill by appointment all vacancies OC' curring in the district offices. Said officers to be in office until successor be duly elected, and in like manner he is empowered, to suspend or remove any district officer for insubordination or for just' and sufficient cause. He shall act as general or- ganizer for the district and attend and answer any and all cases possible for the purpose of adjusting local grievances or any other business that may be presented and shall exer- cise a general supervision over the affairs of the association. But in no case shall he substitute his own opinions for those set forth in this constitution. Section 2. The president shall receive as remuneration for his services the sum of seventy dollars ($70) per month and car fare ; all bills to be properly itemized. Section 3. The vice-president shall be subject to the call of the president, and in the event of the office of president becoming vacant through death, removal, resignation or ( 395 ) 396 United Mine Workers of America otherwise, the vice-president shall succeed that officer and as- sume all responsibility of the office until the next convention or until his successor be elected. Section 4. The vice-president shall receive as compensa- tion for his services, while on actual duty, $3 per day and his railway fare; should he succeed to the office of president, he shall receive the same salary as that set forth as the presi- dent’s salary. Section 5. It shall be the duty of the secretary-treasurer to keep full, accurate and regular minutes of all district con- ventions, and of all meetings of the executive board, in books to be provided for that purpose, and all matters of impor- tance transacted at the meetings of the district executive board shall be forwarded at once to all locals throughout the dis- trict. He shall enter upon said books all ordinances, by-laws, resolutions, etc. He shall receive and preserve all moneys or other valuables due the district and shall draw all orders on the treasury and after the approval and signature of the president shall sign and seal the same. He shall take receipts for all payments and give receipts for all moneys received. He shall keep a fair and accurate account of same in books provided for that purpose. He shall, whenever required to do so by the delegates in convention assembled or the district executive board, render a just account of all receipts and ex- penditures with the vouchers thereof. He shall deliver all books, papers, moneys, or other property he may have in his possession to his successor in office within ten days after the report of the auditing committee has been accepted. Before entering upon his duties he shall present to the executive board a bond or sufficient security of not less than $1,000 for the faithful performance of his duties and the safekeeping of all money and other valuables intrusted to his care. He shall render to the district semi-annually an itemized statement of the receipts and expenditures of the same, and shall receive for his services the sum of $50 per month and his office ex- penses; said office expenses to include all necessary supplies for the general work of the district. Section 6. All members of the executive board shall be subject to the call of the president and shall receive as com- pensation $3 per day and car fare; they shall receive travel- ing expenses only when assigned to any special work. Article IT — Revenue and Representation. Section 1. The revenue of this district association shall be derived from local unions under its jurisdiction, which shall pay to the district secretary -treasurer the sum of 5 cents per month per member as per capita tax, and any and all other Anthracite Constitution, 1895 397 assessments levied by the district executive board through authority invested in them by a working majority of the dele- gates in convention assembled. Section 2. Each local union that is not more than three months in arrears with district per capita tax shall be en- titled to one vote in the district convention for every ten mem- bers in good standing. Locals three months in arrears with district per capita shall not be allowed or entitled to repre- sentation in district conventions, neither with seat, voice or vote. Locals may vote by proxy through any authorized dele- gate to the convention, provided said proxy shall be in the same form as a delegate’s credentials except on questions per- taining to strikes or settlement of wages, when votes by proxy will not be allowed. Section 3. By request of five delegates all votes cast shall be recorded, together with the names of delegates voting, and this to become a part of the proceedings of the convention. Article V. Section 1. Nomination of district officers shall be for- warded to the district secretary-treasurer at least six weeks before the time of the convention, at which said officers are . to be elected, and the secretary-treasurer shall send a list of nominees to each and every local in the district at least two weeks before the time of said election ; and delegates may come to the convention instructed to vote for candidates for the respective offices, which vote shall be recorded and be- come a part of the convention proceedings. Section 2. The election of delegates to attend district convention shall take place in sufficient time to warrant the district secretary-treasurer having the delegates’ credentials in his possession at least three days prior to the convention, this not to refer to locals that are only organized one month or less. Article VI — Initiation Fee. Section 1. The initiation fee shall be left with each local union to decide, but in no case shall it be less than 25 cents. Article VII — Legality cf Delegate. Section 1. No person shall be eligible to act as a dele- gate to any district convention who is not a member of this association in good standing, and is not or has not been em- ployed in or about the anthracite mines. Article VIII — Meetings. Section 1. Regular district conventions shall be held at Pottsville, Schuykill coimty, Pennsylvania, at least once every three months. 398 United Mine Workers of America Section 2. Special conventions shall be called by the exec- utive board at the request of five locals representing two hun- dred members in good standing, and no business shall be transacted except such as is set forth in the call. Section 3. Meetings of the executive board shall be held every month, and the secretary-treasurer shall give every member timely notice thereof. Article IX — Electiwi of Officers. Section 1. The election of the president, vice-president and secretary-treasurer and members of the executive board shall be performed by the delegates in convention assembled. They shall serve for a term of one year, unless removed for cause or resign. Section 2. The election of officers shall be decided by ballot, and the candidate receiving a majority of all the votes cast shall be declared elected. Article X — Grievances. Section 1. Should any grievances arise in any of the local unions that can not be settled between themselves and their employers the district executive board shall be notified of the same, and if they are unable to adjust the difference and the grievance is of such importance the executive board is authorized to call a special convention of delegates, who may act thereon. Article XI — Auditors. Section 1. A committee of not less than three members in good standing shall be elected semi-annually by the dele- gates in convention, whose duty it shall be to audit and ad- just the books of the secretary-treasurer, giving an itemized statement of the receipts and expenditures of the last half year, and report the same at the next convention, for which they shall receive as compensation three dollars ($3) per day and traveling expenses. Article XII — By-Laics. Section 1. By-laws not repugnant to the constitution of the United States, the constitution and laws of the common- wealth of Pennsylvania, nor to this instrument, may be passed and adopted by the members of all local. unions of this district association. Article XIII — Charges. Section 1. No charges shall be considered by any con- vention or executive board unless presented in writing to the district executive board or to the secretary-treasurer at the convention, And any member under charges has the right Anthracite Constitution, 1895 399 to peruse all papers and hear all evidence in the case, and to appear in the convention, or before the executive board, as the case may be, and hear the reports of all committees or others bearing on his case and make his defense. But before the evidence is reviewed by the delegates assembled or members of the executive board present, as the case may be, or a vote is taken, the member under charges shall re- tire. Article XIV — Quorum. Section 1. A quorum shall consist of a majority of the delegates representing the several local unions in good stand- ing, and when such a number are present and the hour for opening the convention has arrived the president, or his substitute, if he be not present, shall call the meeting to order and proceed to business, and the business transacted shall be binding on all the local unions under the jurisdiction of Dis- trict 1, United Mine Workers of America. Article XV — Committees. Section 1. All committees, unless otherwise provided for, shall consist of three delegates, to be appointed by the president unless where it concerns his immediate interest, when the vice-president shall have the power of appointment. Article XVI — Sign and Password. Section 1. There shall be embodied in the work of this district association a secret sign of recognition and a secret password, and said password to be changed every three months and oftener, if necessary. Said password and sign to originate with the executive board and the password and sign to be sent to all locals in good standing. Article XVII. Section 1. The itemized report of the receipts and ex- penditures and fines held by the auditors shall be printed and a copy of the same shall be forwarded to each local union in the district, and to cover the expenses of printing the same, each local union receiving a copy of said report shall pay for the same 25 cents. Article XVIII — Beneficial Fund. Section 1. On and after the first day of January, 1896, there shall be established under the jurisdiction of this dis- trict association a fund to be known as a beneficial fund, leaving it to the free will of all members as to whether they become members of the fund or not. The initiation fee to this fund shall be 25 cents, and at the death of a brother mem- 400 United Mine Workers of America ber of the fund the widow, orphan or dependent relative of the deceased, shall receive as a funeral benefit the sum of forty dollars ($40.00) ; said funeral benefit to be raised by the levying of a pro rata assessment upon the members of the fund. Article XIX — Disputes as to Meaning. Section 1. Should any dispute arise as to the true in- tent and meaning of the Constitution and By-Laws, the ques- tion shall be referred to a committee to construe the section, whose decision, if approved by the convention, shall be its judgment thereon. Article XX — Amendments. Section 1. Amendments to this constitution shall only be made at the regular district convention ; all amendments must be submitted in writing and a two-thirds vote is necessary to adopt an amendment to this constitution. Emanuel Jenkyn, P. J. Carroll, John Fahy, Committee on Constitution and By-Laws. Adopted at a regular stated convention of District No. 1, United Mine Workers of America, held at Pottsville, Schuyl- kill county, Pennsylvania, June 26, 1895. PITTSBURG DISTRICT JOINT SCALE ADOPTED, 1895. Pittsburg, Pa., December 2, 1895. The convention was called to order by President J. A. Cairns at 10 a. m. Lewis Hohn, Banksville; Alfred Hall, Manown; Adam Fox, Summer Hill; committee on credentials, reported sixty- one delegates present. All doubtful cases were referred back to the committee and report adopted. Committee on Rules — Wm. Dodds, Banksville; George Wilson, Carnegie; Silas Cole, Finleyville. The report of the committee on rules was adopted as a whole. The president proceeded to read the resolutions adopted at the last joint convention with a short address. Rev. Laird, of Sutersville, was given ten minutes of privi- lege to address the convention. He was followed by National Pittsburg Joint Conference 401 President Penna, National Vice-President Cameron Miller and National Secretary-Treasurer Pat McBryde. Convention proceeded to take the reports of delegates, which showed that stores, with a few exceptions, had been abolished and screens to exist of uniform size; some irregu- larities as to pay days with an unusual amount of time in the hands of the companies. Moved, That the president appoint a committee of seven in connection with national and district officials to work and argue in joint convention for an advanced mining rate. Car- ried. The following were appointed: Chas. Wallace, William Dodds, Andrew Savage, Ed. McKay, James Hoey, J. T. Hef- fran and Peter Sample. Moved, That the resolution adopted at a previous conven- tion of a 10-cent per capita assessment to prosecute law suits be readopted by the convention. Carried. Convention adjourned to meet in joint convention. Pittsburg, Pa., December 3, 1895. Convention was called to order at 10 :30 o’clock by Chair- man G. W. Schluederberg. The chairman requested to be relieved of acting as chair- man of the convention. D. M. Anderson, operator, was chosen to take the chairman’s place. William Warner was chosen as secretary. By motion a committee of two operators and two miners was appointed as a committee on credentials: James Hoey, E. J. McCue, miners; Wilson, Schluederberg, operators. Committee on credentials reported sixty-six miners’ dele- gates and the following operators present, representing forty- one mines : E. W. Powers, Federal Coal Co., 2 mines ; A. W. Young, Sheppler Coal Co., 1 ; N. F. Sanford, Moon Run Coal Cq., 1 ; J. A. O’Neil, Ella Coal Co., Webster Coal Co., 2 ; J. C. Dysart, Essen Coal Co. and Chartiers Block Coal Co., 4 ; E. S. Batchelor, Harrison Coal Co., 1 ; J. Zweidinger, Fidelity Coal Co., 1 ; C. H. Wilse, Lake Shore Gas Coal Co., 1 ; Camell, Painter Coal Co., 1 ; John Blythe, Big Chief mine, 1 ; J. V. H. Cook, Allison mine, 1 ; James Boyle, Cherry mine, 1 ; W. R. Wilson, Ridgeway Bishop, 1 ; Henry Floer- sheim, Germania and Nottingham, 2 ; D. M. Anderson mine, 1 ; 402 United Mine Workers of America J. J. Stytler, Slope mine, 1; W. N. Verner, Enterprise and N. W. mine, 2; T. E. Young, Manown and Panhandle, 2; G. W. Schluederberg, Oakdale, 1 ; G. W. Schluederberg, Robbins’ in- terest, 8 mines, F. H. Chapman, Standard Coal Co., 1 ; R. H. Boyle, Hackett, 1 ; Roger Hartley, Enterprise ; Frank Armstrong, Summer Hill, 1 ; Frank Armstrong, National, 1 ; Fred Greiner, Morgan, 1; Alexander Black, Nixon, 1; Alex- ander Dempster, Bower Hill, 1. Henry Floersheim, operator, offered the following resolu- tion, seconded by Operator Chapman : Whereas, All efforts to establish true uniformity in the Pittsburg district have failed, and it is known that certain operators who bound themselves at the October joint con- vention to pay the 64-cent cash and 69-cent rate where stores are being run in connection with the mines have violated the agreement; therefore, be it Resolved, That in order to determine who are the obstruc- tionists to uniformity, that a committee of two miners and two operators be appointed to conduct a thorough investiga- tion as to the condition of affairs in the district. The dutj' of this committee shall be to inspect the pay rolls of all oper- ators to ascertain the price paid for digging; also to ascer- tain if the scales are correct, screens of the proper size and no deductions except for checkweighmen, rent and smithing. Resolved, That the expenses of this work be borne by the Pittsburg Railroad Coal Operators’ Association, and that a list of fair and unfair operators be published in the daily press. By motion, the following committee on resolutions and and business was appointed and Floersheim’s resolution re- ferred to this committee: Chapman, Wilson, Dysart, San- ford, J. W. O’Neil, Young, G. W. Schluederberg, operators; Charles Wallace, William Dodds, A. Savage, Ed. McKay, James Hoey, J. T. Heffran, Peter Sample, miners. By motion, national and district miners’ officials were given the same privilege as in the last convention — a voice and seat. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention came to order at 3 :30 o’clock p. m. The com- mittee on resolutions reported the following : Pittsburg Joint Conference 403 Resolved, That the price of mining a ton of 2,000 pounds of 11 / 2 -inch screened lump coal shall be — cents per ton from January 1, 1896, until March 31, 1896, and — cents per ton from April 1 to December 31, 1896. But in accordance with the agreement entered into by us in the joint convention of operators and miners of October 12, 1895, the price paid for mining a ton of 2,000 pounds of li/ 2 -inch screened lump coal shall be the price per ton paid by the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal company, and shall so continue following down- ward, if necessary, the price paid by them, until they shall pay the price above agreed upon to be paid by the district; provided, that all operators claiming contract under this agreement must further agree that they will abolish their stores owned by the coal companies and individuals, known as “Company Stores,” on or before January 1, 1896, and that after that date no mine owner, superintendent, mine clerk, or boss, shall either directly or indirectly be interested in or connected with such stores. Where stores of the above name are maintained at mines, the price for mining at such mines shall be 20 cents per ton over and above the district price. Resolved, That in cases where it is believed that the above conditions are not being fulfilled, a committee of ten — five operators and five miners — appointed by this convention, shall have power to investigate and report on all such cases, and when it shall be found that any operator is not fulfilling the above conditions, he shall not be allowed any participation in the above agreement. This is to be a standing committee, and shall have the power to declare the price to be paid for mining in the district until the above conditions shall have been entirely fulfilled. Resolved, That we reaffirm all covenants and agreements entered into by us in our joint convention of October 10, 11 and 12, referred to above. Resolved, That the first part of the report of the com- mittee on resolutions and business, referring to price and condition, be referred to a scale committee consisting of three operators and three miners, to be appointed by the chair. The committee appointed for the miners, George Wilson, Walter Calverly and Thomas Kirsop; operators, G. W. Schlueder- berg, J. C. Dysart and F. Osborne. Resolution No. 1 withdrawn. Second and third resolutions were adopted. Convention adjourned. 404 United Mine Workers of America WEDNESDAY’S SESSION, Convention came to order at 10 :30 a. m. Scale committee reported, having met in the Coal Associa- tion rooms, Carnegie Building, Tuesday evening. They failed to agree. After discussing the position from both sides until noon, the convention adjourned for dinner for both sides to reconvene in the afternoon to discuss the question alone. MINERS’ CONVENTION. Wednesday afternoon the session came to order with Pres- ident J. A. Cairns in the chair. After much discussion the scale committee was instructed to advocate 69 and 74 cents. Moved, That the dead work scale be rearranged. Carried. Operators were admitted and jointly convened at 4 o’clock, with Chairman D. M. Anderson in the chair. After much discussion from both sides the convention again referred the question of price to scale committee and adjourned, THURSDAY’S SESSION. The miners met at 10 o’clock. George Wilson of the scale committee reported the com- mittee had failed to agree again. Moved, That the report be received and acted upon. Car- ried. Moved, as a substitute for the motion and amendments offered. That the scale committee be empowered to settle the price. Carried. Adjourned for dinner. Thursday’s afternoon session came to order at 4:30, to hear the report of scale committee. After hearing the report of the scale committee and a few minor changes, the following report was adopted as the act of this convention : This agreement, made and entered into this 5th day of December, 1895, by and between coal mine operators and coal miners of the Pittsburg railroad districts, witaesseth ; First, that price for mining coal screened over 1^-inch screen shall be 64 cents per ton of 2,000 pounds from January 1, 1896, Pittsburg Joint Conference 405 to March 1, and 70 cents a ton from March 1 to December 31, 1896; that the day and dead work scale agreed to by the joint convention of operators and miners, held October 10, 11 and 12, 1895, is hereby reaffirmed and becomes a part of this agreement; as follows: At a convention of miners and operators held in Pittsburg October 10, 11 and 12, 1895, it was resolved that we adopt the rates of day and dead work of 1892, based upon a 79-cent rate for mining, and to rise and fall in proportion to the wages paid per ton for mining, and the following schedule will show the price of day and dead work to be paid under several mining prices. Signed for the miners : John Cairns, William A. Warner. Signed for the operators : George W. Schluederberg, Alexander Dempster, T. H. Chapman. When price of 1%-inch coal is Clay veins 6 inches and less than 12 inches Anything over 12 inches at the rate of, per foot Where clay veins run in angle across the room or entry there shall be paid while it continues, per yard Anything 6 inches or less shall be considered a “spar,” for which shall be paid And where the “spar” runs in an angle there shall be For 12 feet places former prices to be paid. Break-throughs, per yard Ripping roof, digging drain, thick slate, to be left to miners and mine boss. Pick sharpening to be 1% per cent. price is now paid. $0.64 $0.70 . 1.62 1.77 . 1.62 1.77 . .41 .45 . .81 .88 . .20 .22 . 2.03 2.21 . .81 .88 . 1.01 1.10 . 1.22 1.33 , .41 .45 . 1.62 1.77 . 1.83 2.00 fieulties a higher It is understood and agreed that this contract is contingent on the following conditions: “That all stores owned by coal companies and individual coal operators be abolished, in accordance with the resolution of joint conference, October 10, 11 and 12, 1895, that all stores owned by coal companies, known as company stores, be abol- ished on or before January 1, 1896, and that after that date no mine owner, superintendent nor mine clerk, either direct- ly or indirectly, be interested or connected with such store ; 406 United Mine Workers of America “That where company stores exist after January 1, 1896, or deductions are made from miners’ wages in the interest of any store, directly or indirectly, the employer shall be re- garded as keeping a company store and shall pay 20 cents per ton extra for mining ; “That there shall be no limit on wagons at any mine; “That the recognized screen of the Pittsburg district shall not exceed 60 superficial feet, with li/o inches between con- tinuous flat bars; screens shall be free from obstructions; back-action screens shall be considered as screens with ob- structions. “Operators shall recognize the right of miners’ check- weighmen of their own selection, whose wages shall be de- ducted by the company from miners’ wages. It is further provided that checkweighmen must not interfere with com- pany business nor shall he be a member of mine committees; “That a committee of five operators and five miners be appointed by this convention to whom shall be referred all questions of difference arising under this contract, and that said committee shall, between January 1 and 16, meet to can- vass the situation, and if they find that the above provisions have been complied with, and the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Company is paying the district price of 64 cents, then the committee shall declare this contract in effect, but if the company is not paying said district price, they shall declare the prices being paid by the said New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Company the price to be paid in the Pittsburg district. This shall apply during the existence of the contract. “Pay days shall be the 10th and 25th of each month. Miners shall be paid on the 10th for the wages earned in the last fifteen days of the preceding month, and on the 25th the wages of the first fifteen days of the current month ; pro- vided, that nothing in this contract shall be construed to pre- vent operators now paying every two weeks from continuing to do so.” Adjourned until Friday, 10 a. m., to hear the report of scale committee on machine mining. REPORT OF SCALE COMMITTEE. The price of machine mining, where Harrison & Inger- soll or pick machines are used, shall be one-fifth of the price of pick mining for cutting, and one-half for loading. It is recommended that the price of driving entry, or narrow work with machines shall be, for the Jeffrey chain or bar machine, 3 cents per ton over and above the regular price for cutting in rooms ; for loading, 13 cents per ton for the Harrison, or pick Pittsburg Joint Conference 407 machines, 5 cents per ton over and above the regular price for cutting, and 13 cents for loading. Where it is preferred to pay by yard, the price on the Har- rison machine for cutting and loading shall be 30 per cent less than the regularly established district price for yardage by pick mining and for the Jeffrey chain or cutter bar ma- chine, 37 per cent less, to be divided between cutter and loader, in the same relative proportion as paid for room work. Where the entries are of sufficient width to enable the machine miner to turn the room, the operator shall pay the pick price for mining for such work. The price for room turning with Jeffrey machine to be $2, based upon a 64-cent rate of pick mining, of which the cutter is to receive one-third, or 65 cents, and the loader two- thirds, or $1.35. The price for room turning with the Harrison machine shall be $2.35, based on 64-cent pick mining, of which the cutter shall receive $1 and the loader $1.35. After the scale for machine mining has been tried and found to be unjust to any person interested, the committee of ten shall take up the question, and if necessary readjust the same. Resolved, That the committee of ten appointed by this con- vention, with power to act, in putting into effect and enforc- ing all the covenants and agreements entered into by us shall also have full power and authority to interpret any part of these agreements and to act as arbitrators in case of difficulty at any of the mines operating under said agreement, and that in all cases their decision shall be final and binding upon all parties. Signed on behalf of miners: Walter Calverly, George Wilson, Thomas Kirsop, Cameron Miller, Pat McBryde, J. A. Cairns, P. H. Penna, William Warner, Secretary of Convention. Signed on behalf of operators : J. C. Dysart, G. W. SCHLUEDERBERG, F. M. Osborne, D. M. Anderson, Chairman of Convention. Scale committee reported the following on differential, which was adopted as amended. 408 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That the relative price of differential between the thick and thin vein shall be the same relative differential as in 1892, which would make a difference of 14 cents per ton in the Youghiogheny Valley and 13 cents per ton in the Mo- nongahela Valley, when mining in the thin vein is 64 cents per ton, and to advance and decline with the percentage of difference. Amendment, That this standing committee have the power to decide any question that may arise as to the geographical line of thick and thin vein coal. The following resolution was offered by P. H. Penna and seconded by F. L. Robbins : Inasmuch as the mining question in this district has be- come one of public interest, and inasmuch as the daily press of this city has manifested such interest in presenting the question at issue to the public scrutiny ; therefore, Resolved, That when the joint committee appointed by this convention meets to canvass the situation to decide whether true uniformity prevails or not, that the editors of all the daily newspapers in this city be invited to attend and be- come a part of said joint committee. The following committee of ten was appointed : Miners — P. H. Penna, J. A. Cairns, William Warner, Ed McKay, George Wilson. Operators — G. W. Schluederberg, F. M. Osborne, T. E. Young, John Blythe, Roger Hartley; John C. Dysart, alter- nate. A vote of thanks was given to the chairman of the conven- tion. After some very appropriate remarks by Chairman D. M. Anderson, the convention adjourned. William Warner, Secretarj^-Treasurer. CHAPTER XX. SEVENTH ANNUAL NATIONAL PROCEEDINGS. Columbus, Ohio, April 14, 1896. Convention called to order by President Penna; P. Mc- Bryde, Secretary. The president appointed W. C. Pearce, of Ohio, assistant secretary. John Eddy, Chairman of the Credentials Commit- tee, reported the following delegates entitled to seats in the convention : District 1 — John Fahy, Miles Daugherty, P. J. Friel. District 5 — John Evans, Cameron Miller, Patrick Mc- Bryde, P. H. Penna, Richard Johns, George Wilson, Andrew Savage, Lawrence Magdalene, Joseph Pierce, Silas Cole, Owen Cruse, James Buckan, Richard Gibbs, Pat Dolan, William Warner, J. M. Larkins. District 6 — T. L. Lewis, H. B. Jones, John Lanthorn, W. C. Pearce, H. A. Banning, J. H. Barnes, John Spriggs, T. L. Richards, Henry Shires, Joseph Evans, Ralph Mason, Ephraim Patrick, Edmund Thomas, Andrew Moore, M. D. Ratchford, George Cecil, I. N. Coleman, Frank Allison, Thomas Barton, Frank Voorhees, James O’Hara, R. L. Davis, Harry Elliott, Dell Beard, C. H. Smith, L. D. Devore, James Hennesy, S. W. German, John Wardle, Mike Jackson, Samuel S. Kuhn, E. W. Dowler, D. S. Roberts, D. P. Reese, Arthur Bigrig, William Richards, I. C. Slusser, Dan Oldroyd, W. H. Crawford. District 11 — J. H. Kennedy, John Buckley, Dan Llewellyn, G. W. Lackey, Thomas Moss, R. S. Mann, P. H. Penna, G. W. Purcell, John Kane. . District 12 — James O’Connor, William Monaghan, Alex Morton, John Hunter, George D. Miller, J. A. Crawford, W. J. Guyman, J. M. Carson. District 17 — Henry Stephenson. District 19— W. C. Webb. New River District — W. S. Penman, Harrison Lusk, John Gillison, Charles Jones. ( 409 ) 410 United Mine Workers of America Motion, to adopt committee’s report. Adopted. John F. Tobin addressed the convention in the interest of the boot and shoemaker’s label. Senator Hysell then addressed the convention on labor representation. We, your committee on order of business, beg leave to re- port the following : 1. The hours of meeting shall be from 8:30 a. m. until 12 m. ; from 1 :30 p. m. until 5 p. m. 2. No representative will be allowed to speak longer than five minutes on any one question without permission of the convention. 3. Cushing’s Manual shall govern the action of this con- vention when not otherwise provided for. Moved to adopt. Carried. The committees appointed were as follows : Resolutions — Michael Ratchford, William Warner, J. H. Barnes, John Fahy, W. H. Crawford. Constitution — G. W. Purcell, T. L. Lewis, T. L. Richards, R. S. Mann, J. M. Carson. Officers’ Reports — James O’Connor, Miles Daugherty, James Hennesy. Order of Business — J. H. Kennedy, W. C. Webb, W. S. Penman, Thomas Barton, Richard Johns. Grievances — R. L. Davis, M. Jackson, G. W. Lackey, W. J. Guyman, Daniel Llewellyn. Distribution — George Wilson, Ralph Mason. Here President Penna delivered his annual address. The president made an elaborate report to the delegates attending the seventh annual convention of the United Mine Workers of America held at Columbus, Ohio, April 14-17, 1896. He said in part : / “The year through which we have passed has been a verj* eventful one, one in which the adhesiveness of trades unionism and unionists have been thoroughly tried. A year in which disappointments, low wages, adverse conditions and an empty treasury have been our chief possessions; that the existence of these conditions, in many instances, was but the signal for attack by open enemies and pseudo friends, masquerading Seventh Annual Convention 411 in the garb of undying devotion to trade union principles, men with disappointed ambition, and those to whom slander is natural, attempted to destroy that which they could not control.” His report in dealing with the De Armit situation and the refusal on the part of Pittsburg operators to join in the adoption of an inter-state scale of prices, bristled with sentiments of arrow point penetration, the sting of which was rather uncomfortable to bear. The non-subscribers to the Journal were treated with their just share of retribution for their lack of support in the maintenance of the strongest friend they have in time of need. He quoted circulars sent out in May, 1895, calling representatives of the miners to- gether from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, western Pennsylvania and West Virginia for a convention that was held at Colum- bus, Ohio, May 29, 1895,. to consider the mining situation as it presented itself in those districts. As a foot note to the circular he added; “Delegates to this convention will pay their own expenses.” He said sixty-one delegates were pres- ent, fifty of whom represented Ohio miners ; six from Indiana, one from Pennsylvania, one from Illinois and three from West Virginia. In dealing with the suspension, he said : “From the meager representation from districts other than Ohio, it was apparent to all present that interest necessary to inaug- urate and carry to a successful issue a suspension in the dis- tricts named did not exist.” On this point he made the fur- ther statement, and the convention agreed with him, “I don’t believe that the miners of Illinois or the block coal field of Indiana or West Virginia or western Pennsylvania could be induced to join in a general suspension at this time.” In re- ferring to the advisability of a joint meeting of operators and miners to consider the making of a joint scale of prices for Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, with Messrs. Sweet and Bent from Illinois, Tally and Broughton from Indiana, Morton and John- son from Ohio representing the operators; the national of- ficials, together with President Ratchford of Ohio as repre- sentative of the miners. He said: “After a full discussion of the situation, the conference dissolved with the tacit under- standing that the Pittsburg district was too large a factor to be ignored.” The operators present expressed a willingness, '412 United Mine Workers of America however, to meet any time if Pittsburg operators would join them in such a convention. President Penna stated that he desired as an act of justice to say publicly that the miners of the Pittsburg district and all others alfected by conditions therein, are under lasting obligations to George W. Schluederberg, associated with Robbin’s interest, and T. E, Young of the Youghiogheny Coal Company for their untiring interests as they would be affected by the enforcement of the uniformity contract. He also ad- vised an expression of gratitude to Governor Altgeld of Illi- nois appreciative of his action in pardoning our fellow miners who he believed were imprisoned only in response to public clamor and without respect to the claims of justice. The company store, with its evil tendencies, he said were surrounded with limitations which bespeaks its departure and added : “Our worst opponents in our efforts to rid ourselves of this system are our craftsmen, who, in many instances, persist in petitioning their employers to reopen their stores and return to their old system of issuing orders thereon.” “I advise that you, by resolution, protest against this conduct of miners, and request employers, annoyed by such petitions, to discharge the petitioners and pledge him the support of our organization in ridding himself of their presence.” Constitutional amendments were suggested that would force local unions to pay the same dues to the national union as was paid to the district unions ; in view of the fact that the time for making annual wage settlements had been changed from April to December, he advised that the time for holding the annual conventions be changed to the second Tuesday in January of each year. On the question of politics, he closed his report by saying : “The burden is becoming heavier than the people can bear and unless we go into politics, ascertain the truth, know our rights, and knowing them fearlessly assert them, and soon change this government from one of, by and for the gold syndicate and landlordism into one of, by and for the people, all that remains to us of liberty will be lost.” The convention then adjourned. P. H. Penna, President. Seventh Annual Convention 413 AFTERNOON SESSION. The report of Secretary Patrick McBryde, while dealing to some extent with the bitters and sweets of official position, the prerogative of the members to bless or damn their leaders as the spirit moved them, generally speaking was confined to the finances connected with his work as secretary. After asking for a more lenient consideration of the work done by his successor in office, he closed his report with the following statement : ‘T regret my inability to report to this convention that the year just closed was a prosperous one — the reverse was the case. When our convention closed last year the organization was over $500 in debt; the debt continued to increase until the $3,000 mark was reached ; the officials kept the ship afloat, watching for the opportunity of improving the conditions of the miners, knowing well by doing so the organization would soon regain its strength and power. The opportunity pre- sented itself in the struggle for uniformity in the Pittsburg district. With the advance in wages the miners began to flock back to the organization ; the debt began to get gradually less until at the end of March it was reduced more than one-half and the organization had, to meet that debt, $1,155.77. I expect when this convention adjourns the debt of the organi- zation will be almost wiped out. 'Tf, during my term of office, I have in any way offended the members of our organization, I can assure them I feel heartily sorry and trust they will forget it. At the same time I have to thank the officials and members for the many kind- nesses received at their hands. To no one am I more indebted than to my able assistant, George Douglas, who has handled more than $200,000 of the organization’s money, not one cent of which has not been accounted for. I feel that I would be ungrateful did I not publicly thank him for his honesty, abil- ity, and the faithfulness and accuracy in which he discharged his duties. P. McBryde.” The following report of the auditors shows where and for what purpose the money was received and expended. 414 United Mine Workers of America Columbus, Ohio, April 14, 1896. To the Representatives of the United Mine Workers of Amer- ica assembled at the seventh annual convention : Gentlemen — We, your auditing committee, beg leave to submit the following report of receipts and expenditures of the organization from January 1, 1895, to March 31, 1896: Income. First quarter — January, February and !March: Balance from last audit .$496.83 Tax 5,147.65 Supplies 194.69 Journal 837.79 Miscellaneous 15.00 .$6,691.96 Expenses. Ollicers’ salaries and expenses .$4,331.32 Central Traffic Association 11.00 Mileage 1,217.32 City taxes 5.80 Sujjplies 639.43 Office expenses 201.85 Telegrapli, postage and expressage 257.22 6,663.94 April 1, 1895, to Mardi 31, 1896, inc., by balance $28.02 Income. Tax 11,898.43 Supplies 974.50 .Tournal 2,220.63 Miscellaneous 158.50 Total $15,280.08 Expenditures. Salaries and expenses $10,178.93 Supplies 1,935.32 Office expenses 734.00 Telegrams, postage and express 661.66 Miscellaneous 614.40 14,124.31 Balance on hand April 1, 1896 $1,155.77 Your committee has made two audits; the first in May for the months of January. February and l\Iarch, 1895, and the second for the year ending March 31, 1896. We can say the same as the previous auditors, that the books of the United Mine Workers of America are kept with such a system that any committee with the slightest knowledge of bookkeeping can examine them with correctness and dispatch. All bills Seventh Annual National Convention 415 and credits were on file, every one of which was itemized, so as to show where every cent of the money expended had gone. The accounts were correct in every particular. Yours respectfully, H. Stephenson, P. Hines, Auditors. The auditors’ report as read was adopted, and the conven- tion adjourned to give the committees time to report. WEDNESDAY MORNING SESSION. President Penna called the convention to order. The committee appointed to revise the constitution sub- mitted the following amendments for consideration, which were adopted : ■Article III. Section 1. The revenue of the National Union shall be derived from local unions and local assemblies, which shall pay direct to the secretary -treasurer ten (10) cents per month per member ; fractional members shall pay in proportion. The local secretary shall fill out and forward to the national and district secretaries a monthly report of the members in good standing in the local union or assembly ; said report to be for- warded to the national and district secretaries on or before the 25th of each month. Section 2. In filling out the monthly report, the local sec- retary shall report to the national office, on blanks for that purpose, the amount of money paid and the number of mem- bers reported to the district, and to the district office the amount of money paid and the number of members reported to the national secretary. Section 3. The National Convention shall be held an- nually on the second Tuesday in January at such place as may be determined upon by the preceding convention. Special con- ventions shall be called by the president or master workman, when so instructed by the executive board, or at the request of five different unions or divisions. Section 4. Representatives to the national convention from affiliated districts, divisions or locals shall have one vote for 100 members or less, and an additional vote for each 100 members or majority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than five votes, and no person shall be eligible as representative, who is not, or has not been, a practical miner. Section 5. No local assembly or local union shall be en- 416 United Mine Workers of America titled to representation in the national convention that is in arrears for dues or assessments for three (3) months pre- ceding the month in which the national convention is held, and who has not in every particular complied with the constitu- tion of the district in which said local assembly or local union may be located. Section 6. No locals shall be exempt from paying per capita tax unless they have been idle one month. In all cases where local unions or local assemblies desire exoneration from dues, same request shall be signed by the president and secre- tary and mine committee. Article YI. Section 1. All nominations for national offices shall be sent to the national secretary not later than two months be- fore the annual convention; said nominations shall be com- piled by him and sent out not later than two weeks prior to the convention, and no person shall be elected to any office unless his name has been sent to all locals as above specified. The national secretary shall publish the name of no candidate without first obtaining his consent. Delegates shall come to the convention instructed to vote for candidates for the re- spective positions, which vote shall be recorded and become a part of the proceedings of the convention. The committee on resolutions reported and the following were adopted : Whereas, The American Federation of Labor contemplates the inauguration of an eight-hour workday, and many of the affiliated trades have expressed their willingness in the move- ment; therefore, be it Resolved, That we express our sincere approval of the same, and hereby extend our hearty co-Operation to all who may be called upon to take the initiative. Resolved, That the price for mining coal in the Wilming- ton, Illinois, coal field should, in the opinion of this conven- tion, be separated from the price now being paid for mining coal, keeping roads, etc., and that the price should be made to read, as it formerly did, 621/2 cents per ton, summer price; winter price, 70 cents per ton, and that the additional 15 cents per ton now being paid for mining in that field be accredited to brushing, keeping roads, etc. Whereas, The effort to abolish the company store in the Pittsburg district has, in nearly every instance, been success- ful. Resolved, That we discourage such practices everj-where. and earnestly appeal to our members and others of our trade, in districts named, to demand cash for their labor; and be it further Seventh Annual National Convention 417 Resolved, That all other districts be urged to take such action as will wipe the infamous truck store out of existence. Whereas, We recognize the efficacy of the United Mine Workers Journal, both as an organizer and educator of our craft, and Whereas, That hearty support to which it is entitled has been withheld; Therefore, be it Resolved, That each delegate present, also local secre- taries take upon themselves the duties of procuring sub- scribers and circulating the same in their respective local- ities. Moved that we now adjourn until 1 :30. Carried. AFTERNOON SESSION. At the afternoon session the uniformity contract in the Pittsburg district was considered and the following adopted: Whereas, The contract in the Pittsburg district, named the “true uniformity contract,” did not become operative, by reason of a failure to secure the requisite number of signa- tures; and Whereas, A failure to maintain the scale price in the Pittsburg district during the scale year means reduction to the miners of Ohio, with its attendant confusion and want; therefore, be it Resolved, That apy attempt on the part of any operator to reduce mining rates during the existence of the present wage scale in the Pittsburg district be promptly met with the opposition of our organization, and that we pledge our hearty support to any body of men whom we may have reason to call out on strike for the maintenance of scale rates. Adopted. COMMITTEE ON OFFICERS’ REPORTS. Gentlemen of the Convention : We, your Committee on Officers’ Reports, beg leave to report that, owing to the nature of the reports of the president and secretary, there is but little for us to say. The president advises that we express, by resolution, our gratitude to Governor Altgeld, of Illinois, for releasing our fellow miners from the state penitentiary at Joliet. The president also advises that you express your dis- approval of the conduct of those miners, who, where “truck stores” have been abolished, are petitioning their employers for a return to that infamous method of paying wages. We recommend the same to your consideration. 418 United Mine Workers of America The secretary’s report is a masterly exposition of the min- ing situation. It will prove invaluable to the student of min- ing affairs. The committee regrets exceedingly that trades unionism in America, and especially the miners’ union, is about to lose the services of one so singularly gifted and so well equipped in every respect for advocating the cause of labor as is our secretary, Patrick McBryde. His long years of faithful service in behalf of the miners of this country will always be remembered, and in his retirement to private life he will carry with him the good will and respect of the brain- iest men, not only of his trade, but of the labor movement in America. The report of the committee was adopted. At this point John McBride was called on to address the convention. He made a most exhaustive and interesting speech, and was heartily cheered at the close of his remarks. C. R. Martin, secretary of the Independent Order of the Knights of Labor, who was present, was called upon to speak. Mr. Martin spoke at some length, and was applauded for his kind words of encouragement. Resolved, That the following be published in the next an- nual call for delegates to be instructed : “Any mine within the territory under the jurisdiction of the United Mine Workers, having been once organized for a period of three (3) months, and allowing itself to become lapsed, defunct, or refusing to pay dues to the organization, shall and must be in good standing for a period of one year previous to the meeting of the annual convention, before said local union or assembly shall be entitled to representa- tion in the annual or special conventions of the national or district organizations. This section to take effect and be in force on and after July 1, 1897.” Adopted. The convention adjourned until Thursday morning. THURSDAY MORNING SESSION. President Penna in the chair. The Committee on Resolutions reported as follows : Whereas, The Governor of Illinois, J. P. Altgeld, has judiciously extended executive clemency to our brother. J. S. Gehr, and his comrades, who were incarcerated in the Illinois state prison for alleged participation in the Little Mine riot; therefore, be it Seventh Annual National Convention 419 Resolved, That the seventh annual convention of the United Mine Workers of America, recognizing the wise dis- cretion shown by Gov. John P. Altgeld’s action in this mat- ter, hereby extend to him our full appreciation of the same; and further be it Resolved, That this be published in the United Mine Workers Journal, and also a copy be presented to Governor J. P. Altgeld. Adopted. Whereas, The New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Com- pany has, for years, professed their willingness to pay uni- form scale rates, provided their competitors would agree to give their miners the same conditions as those said to be en- joyed by the men employed by the New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Company ; and Whereas, Every large coal company in the Pittsburg dis- trict complied with the demands of the New York and Cleve- land Gas Coal Company by abolishing their company stores and paying their miners in cash ; and Whereas, After those conditions had been complied with, the president of the New York and Cleveland Coal Company, W. P. DeArmit, has refused to carry out the pledges made by him for years, and is at the present time paying his miners 6 cents per ton less than his ironclad contract with his miners calls for ; and Whereas, The conduct of the president of the New York and Cleveland Company brands him as an insincere pre- tender; therefore, be it Resolved, That the conduct of this company is inexcusable and outrageously at variance with its oft repeated professions of interest in the miners’ well being. Adopted. Owing to financial conditions after the national suspen- sion, the question of retaining John Fahy, and sending George Harris into the anthracite coal field, was referred to the na- tional executive board. Whereas, Patrick McBryde, Secretary-Treasurer of the United Mine Workers of America, has loyally, faithfully and efficiently served the humane cause of labor for many years, and in every official position in which he has been placed he was found honest, fearless and trustworthy ; and Whereas, In his trade union career, from boyhood to man- hood in the coal mines, through the many trusts of his honor- able and eventful life, Patrick McBryde has displayed a P. H. PENNA, THIRD PRESIDENT, 1895, 1896. Seventh Annual National Convention 421 breadth of manhood, a geniality of manner and a kindness of spirit which commends him to his fellow craftsmen; there- fore be it Resolved, That in the retirement of Patrick McBryde from the office of Secretary-Treasurer of the United Mine Workers of America, we part with one for whom we have most pro- found esteem and regard, and shall ever hold him in most grateful affection for his devoted work in behalf of his fel- low workmen ; and be it further Resolved, That as a token of our appreciation we hereby elect Patrick McBryde as an honorary member of the United Mine Workers of America. Adopted. President Penna called W. E. Farms to the chair. Officers elected — Secretary McBryde was instructed to cast the ballot of the convention for P. H. Penna. The chair- man declared P. H. Penna elected by the unanimous vote of the convention. Vice-President, Cameron Miller. Secretary-Treasurer, W. C. Pearce. Executive Board Members — P. H. Penna, Cameron Miller, C. W. Pearce, John Fahy, Fred. Dilcher, James O’Conner, Henry Stephenson, R. L. Davis, R. S. Mann. W. C. Webb informed the convention that he desired the 90 votes to be record,ed to him, which would have made him one of the members, as complimentary, as he did not desire to serve as a member of the board. President Ratchford of District No. 6, moved that the resignation of W. C. Webb be accepted, and for the manly stand made by him he be elected an honorary member of our organization. Adopted. Auditors elected — W. C. Webb, Joseph Pierce. Delegates to the American Federation of Labor conven- tion — John McBride, Patrick McBryde, P. H. Penna, M. D. Ratchford. Alternates — James O’Conner, J. H. Kennedy, W. C. Pearce, John Fahy. Resolved, That on account of the misfortune of Delegate Magdalene, whose house burned while he was here in Colum- bus, that on returning home the delegates request each local W. C. PEARCE, SECRETARY, ELECTED 1896. Seventh Annual National Convention 428 to send $1 to assist the brother, the amount to be sent to the editor of the United Mine Workers Journal. Adopted. Robert Watchorn, late secretary of the United Mine Workers, addressed the convention on the immigration ques- tion, after which the following resolution was adopted : Resolved, That we respectfully petition the honorable House of Representatives and Senate at Washington, D. C., to favorably pass upon this question at the present session in such manner as will tend to shield the immigrant from the misrepresentations through which he not infrequently emigrates to the United States, as well as to protect us from the demoralizing effects resulting in the present system of immigration. The grievance committee reported as follows : Gentlemen of the convention : We, the grievance commit- tee, beg leave to report that as no grievance of any kind or character has been presented to us for our consideration; therefore, we congratulate the United Mine Workers of Amer- ica that no matters of a general character have arisen dur- ing the past year that would have a tendency to create dis- trust and dissension in our ranks. The report was adopted, and the convention adjourned sine die. P. H. Penna, President. W. C. Peakce, Secretary. Official report of National Trades Assembly No. 135, In- dependent Order of Knights of Labor— delegates elected to the General Assembly: “Immediately on the adjournment of the convention of the United Mine Workers of America, a meeting of National Trades Assembly 135, Independent Order of Knights of Labor, was held, and after an address by gen- eral Secretary-Treasurer Martin, an adjournment was had until 7 :30 p. m., and the assembly reconvened in the Grand Central Hotel at that hour. “A comparatively large delegation was present, which was very gratifying to the friends of the new organization. Nine delegates were elected to the General Assembly to represent the N. T. A., as follows: W. B. Wilson and Patrick Dolan, 424 United Mine Workers of America of Pennsylvania; John McBride, Patrick McBryde and T. L. Lewis, of Ohio; W. C. Webb, of Kentucky; P. H. Penna and John H. Kennedy, of Indiana, and James O’Conner, of Illi- nois. “Local Assembly No. 1932, known as Self-Abnegation, was reorganized. “This local assembly is a necessity under the twofold char- acter of the organization, which demands that an officer must be a member of both branches. Self-Abnegation Local Assem- bly, which bears the number 1932, is provided so that when a member, who is a member of the open branch only, is elected to office, he may at once be initiated into the secret branch, and thereby be fully eligible to perform the functions of his office. It exists under special dispensation and meets once a year. P. H. Penna and W. C. Pearce are respectively Master Workman and Secretary-Treasurer of National Trades As- sembly No. 135, Independent Order of Knights of Labor, for the ensuing term; and the National Executive Board elect of the United Mine Workers of America are the executive board of the secret branch, or National Trades Assembly No. 135. Messrs. Penna and Pearce are also Master Workman and Sec- retary-Treasurer respectively of Self-Abnegation Assembly, and the address is Room 81, Clinton Building, Columbus, Ohio. “P. H. Penna, President and Master Workman. “W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer.” SEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS, DIS- TRICT 11. Terre Haute, Ind., April 24, 1896. The Seventh Annual Convention of District No. 11, United Mine Workers of America, met in room 10 of the court house in this city, and was called to order by President Purcell at 10 a. m., Tuesday, April 21. The following committees were appointed: On credentials — W. D. Van Horn, Eli ]\Iott and Thomas Moss. On order of business — Mike IMooney, Sim Cooper and Elmer Tannehill. District 11, 7th Annual Proceedings 425 REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON ORDER OF BUSINESS. That the hours of meeting shall be from 8 :30 a. m. until 12 m., and from 1 :30 p. m. until 4 p. m. Cushing’s Manual to be the guide on all questions of parlia- mentary usage. Committee on credentials reported the folowing delegates entitled to seats : J. H. Kennedy, Sim Cooper, George Seldom- ridge, W. Watson, M. Mooney, William Gose, Louis Ingle, G. W. Lackey, W. Moore, D. Johns, Thomas Moss, T. G. Morgan, William Sheffler, J. R. Atkinson, Thomas Tyron, James Mc- Gow, G. W. Ferguson, Fred Wimmer, Eli Mott, George Lowe, B. Vanhook, W. M. Bledsoe, E. Tannehill, W. D. Van Horn, G. W. Purcell and A. C. Sloan. J. H. Kennedy represented 3 locals ; G. W. Lackey, 2 ; Thomas Tyron, 2 ; G. W. Ferguson, 2, and M. J. Mooney, 2. - Report of committee on credentials accepted, and delegates all seated. President Purcell then made his annual report to the con- vention, followed by Secretary Kennedy. Both reports offered some good recommendations, and were well received and re- ferred to the committee on officers’ reports. Secretary Ken- nedy then made his annual financial report showing the dis- trict to be in a good, healthy condition numerically and fi- nancially. Moved, That the report be received and referred to audit- ing committee. Adopted. The following committees were then appointed: On offi- cers’ reports — G. W. Lackey, William Gose and W. Moor. On auditing — George Lowe, George Seldomridge and Burt Van- hook. On resolutions — T. G. Morgan, G. W. Ferguson, W. Watson, James McGow and William Sheffier. On constitu- tion — Thomas Tyron, Mike Mooney, E. Merril, W. Bledsoe and Fred Wimmer. Adjourned until 1 :30 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. Resolutions introduced on moving headquarters from Terre Haute to Vincennes, reducing the secretary’s salary and investing more power in the vice-president were all defeated. 426 United Mine Workers of America The following resolutions were adopted : Authorizing the district secretary to keep a book of sta- tistics recording the number of men and boys employed at each mine in the state, number of days worked, amount of coal of all grades produced each month, together with amount docked for impurities, size and form of screen used, and all other information that would be of use to the miners. That it shall be made the duty of the president or master workman of each local in the state to see that the checkweigh- man of the local report to the district secretary at the end of each month with a statement of the number of men and boys employed in and around the mines ; also number of tons of coal mined each day and amount docked from miners, which state- ment shall be made as follows: Number of miners full turn, number of miners half turn ; number of trappers; number of trackmen and helpers; num- ber of tons of screened coal; run of mine, nut coal, pea coal and slack ; amount docked for slate, sulphur, rock or any other cause ; number of days worked during month ; hours per day, and any other matters of general interest, which statement shall be signed by checkweighman as correct, or approxi- mately correct, as the case may be ; also the size of screen and kind of screen. That this convention indorse and recognize Sub-district 3, of District 11. That we indorse the Boot and Shoe Workers’ union, and recommend that organized labor everywhere buy only boots and shoes that have the union stamp impressed upon the soles. That our scale committee, when appointed, go to our oper- ators and demand the 66 cents per ton as per resolution by the January convention, and that the committee do all they can to make a scale at those figures, but under no circumstances to make a scale to extend later than January 1, 1897. Be it resolved by this convention, that the incoming offi- cers be instructed to look after the interests of the miners in regard to the cases now pending in Green county in regard to the check system now in vogue, and use all honorable means to push the cases to a successful conviction. That this convention condemn the system of driving air- ways and break-throughs from one room to another for half price, as the price is $1.25 per yard and we believe the same ought to be paid for all break-throughs instead of 621/4 cents per yard. That the incoming officers be instructed and empowered to assist all brothers who file complaints against all operators for being discharged for belonging to, or taking part in any local union of the United Mine Workers of America. District 11, 7th Annual Proceedings 427 Knowing the mine run law is not effective we ask that a uniform screen be adopted not to exceed 72 surface feet and not to exceed I 14 inches between diamond bars or II /2 inches between flat bars, and we ask the co-operation of all the dele- gates in this convention. Resolved, That this convention endorse the Cigarmakers’ Union, and request the members of our order to refuse to use any but union made cigars bearing the blue label, and further request that any member of our organization knowing of the fradulent use of the cigarmakers’ blue label report the same to the nearest local of the Cigarmakers’ Union. As Hartwell and Nickel Plate men are locked out and con- tending for union prices and conditions, and as help is badly needed at both places, be it Resolved, That the delegates present be instructed to recommend their respective locals to contribute each pay such amount as they are able, and that said money be sent to the Secretary-Treasurer, who will divide it pro rata. President O’Connor of Illinois (District 12) made an able address to the convention, lasting about an hour. Good and close attention was given throughout and the delegates were much pleased with it. Brother McMannis of the Cigarmakers’ Union of this city also addressed the convention in the interest of the cigar- makers’ blue label. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GRIEVANCE. Whereas, the miners of Mining City are on strike, resist- ing conditions which their operators are trying to impose on them by discharging the mine committee and others for refus- ing to do dead work without being paid for it, and refusing the checkoff ; therefore be it Resolved, That this convention recognize the miners of Mining City as being on strike for a just cause, and that the incoming officers take such steps as are possible to settle the trouble. Adopted. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON OFFICERS’ REPORTS. We, your committee on officers’ reports, report as follows : Gentlemen of the convention: In submitting our report we have very little to say, as the very able reports of your officers are largely history of the acts and conditions of the 428 United Mine Workers of America organization; however, we recommend that this convention take some action on the recommendation of President Purcell, in which he recommends that some action be taken that will remove the unjust censure that is being dealt to the Clinton men who were forced by unscrupulous and tyrannical coal operators to submit to work below scale rates. We also rec- ommend action on the recommendation wherein President Purcell recommends that the constitution be so changed that instead of the executive board attending every convention they attend the annual convention only. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. We, your auditing committee, beg leave to submit the fol- lowing report: We have carefully examined the books of the Secretary- Treasurer and find them correct. The financial statement referred to by the auditing com- mittee gave an itemized account of all receipts and expenses a summary of which when totals are given for the 13 months commencing March 1895, ending April 1, 1896, the result found is as follows: Receipts. Balance in treasury Marcli 1, 1895 $270.02 Receipts for per capita tax and other sources 1,829.14 Clinton Strike No. 1 1,247.00 Clinton Strike No. 2 136.50 Washington Strike 357.50 From 10 cent assessment for organizing 153.95 Hartwell Strike 216.50 Total - $4,210.61 Expenditures. Salaries of all officers, printing, telegrams, postage, etc $2,057.10 Clinton Strike No. 1 1,079.90 Clinton Strike No. 2 110.00 Washington Strike 357.50 Hartwell Strike 215.75 For services, E. Merrill, D. Llewellyn, W. Gose, Ed. Stewart 76.35 Total 3,896.60 Balance in treasury April 1, 1896 $314.01 George Lowe, George Seldomridge, Burton Vanhook, Auditing Committee. District 11, 7th Annual Proceedings 429 The following officers were elected : For President, W. G. Knight; Vice-President, Dan Llewellyn; Secretary-Treasurer, John H. Kennedy; members of Executive Board, Thomas G. Morgan, Thomas Patterson, Thomas Irwin and J. C. Smith. As a committee of operators were in the city for the pur- pose of meeting with the miners, it was moved to appoint a committee of seven to meet with them to try to fix the scale of prices for the balance of the year, and that, if necessary, the convention hold over until Friday to meet them. Scale committee appointed: G. W. Lackey, James McGow, Elmer Tannehill, Geo. Seldomridge, W. D. Van Horn, with Presi- dent G. W. Purcell and Secretary Kennedy. Adjourned. THURSDAY’S SESSION. Convention called to order at 8 :30 a. m. by President Purcell, who stated that five of the operators’ committee were in town and ready to meet us up until 10 a. m. It was here moved to hear an expression of the delegates in regard to the price question. It was plainly developed that the miners thought 66 cents per ton was our proper price, but to avoid trouble we would accept the Ohio prices if we could do no better. President Purcell and Vice-President Merrill then ex- plained the conditions existing in the . Danville and Grape Creek, Illinois, field. The convention then adjourned until 1 :30 p. m., and the committee met the operators. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order, and President Purcell reported progress of scale committee. President-elect W. G. Knight having arrived, he was in- troduced to the convention, and in a few well chosen remarks promised to do what he could to lighten the burdens of the members for the coming year. The scale committee having adjourned until 2 p. m., it was moved and seconded the scale committee return to the operators and make the best terms possible between 60 and 66 cents. Adopted. 430 United Mine Workers of America The convention then adjourned to meet at call of com- mittee. At 5 p. m. the convention was called to order. President Purcell reported that no settlement had been reached by the scale committee, and convention adjourned. FRIDAY’S SESSION. Convention called to order and the scale committee re- ported that they had been unable to make a settlement, the operators refusing to pay anything above 55 cents per ton. This, your committee refused to consider, and the joint com- mittee adjourned sine die. A motion to accept the report of the scale committee was adopted. Moved, That the committee on resolutions draw up some- thing to govern our action in regard to prices after May 1, 1896. Carried. It was moved that two delegates-at-large be elected to the national annual convention, who, with the president and sec- retary, will represent the small locals of the state who are unable to meet the expense of sending delegates, and the sec- retary, some time before the national convention, notify the locals of the names and addresses of the delegates-at-large ; That the vice-president and the member of the board re- ceiving the highest number of votes be the delegates-at-large ; That all funds now in the hands of the secretary-treasurer be transferred to the general fund ; That the proceedings of this convention, together with the constitution as amended, be printed in phamplet form, and twenty copies sent to each local ; That we wait until we find out how many places are resist- ing a reduction below 60 cents per ton and then the presi- dent and secretary make an estimate of the amount needed to support them and notify the locals working ; That $20 be taken from the treasury in favor of the Nickel Plate men. All of which were adopted. It was resolved that this convention extend a hearts’ vote of thanks to the retiring president, George W. Purcell, for his past services. District 11, Revised Constitution, 1896 431 Carried unanimously. And the convention adjourned sine die. J. H. Kennedy, Secretary. REVISED CONSTITUTION DISTRICT 11, 1896. Article I — Name, Objects and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This organization shall be known as District 11 of the United Mine Workers of America. Section 2. The objects of this union are to unite mine employes and to ameliorate their condition by methods of con- ciliation, arbitration or strikes. Section 3. This union shall have jurisdiction over all locals of the National Progressive Union and local assemblies of National Trades Assembly No. 135, Knights of Labor, in the State of Indiana. ■ Article II. Section 1. The officers of this organization shall consist of one President or Master Workman, one Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, one Secretary-Treasurer and an Executive Board of seven members, three of whom shall be the Presi- dent, Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer. Article III. Section 1. The President or Master Workman shall pre- side at all conventions of the state organization. He shall sign all official documents when satisfied of their correctness. With the consent of the Executive Board he shall fill by appoint- ment all vacancies occurring in the offices, and in like mariner he is empowered to suspend or remove any officers for in- subordination or just and sufficient cause. He shall act as general organizer for the state and attend to and settle all local disputes with the consent of the members concerned, and shall exert a general supervision over the affairs of the organi- zation, but in no case shall he substitute his own opinions for those set forth in this constitution. Section 2. The Worthy Foreman or Vice-President shall be subject to the orders of the President or Master Workman and in the event of the President’s office becoming vacant through death or removal, shall succeed that officer and as- sume all its responsibilities until the next convention. Section 3. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of all books, documents and effects of the office. He shall keep a record of the proceedings of all conventions, and all the meetings of the executive board and shall keep copies of all important letters sent out by him. He shall receive and re- 432 United Mine Workers of America ceipt for all moneys and pay all current expenses; he shall prepare and submit to the executive board a quarterly report of all moneys received and disbursed, and perform such other duties as may be assigned him. He shall give a bond of $500, to be secured by not less than two bondsmen. And at the expiration of his term of office he shall turn over all moneys and effects of the organization to his successor. Section 4. The Executive Board shall also constitute the State Board of Conciliation, and shall have full power to ad- just by these methods all disputes wherein the President or Master Workman and local officers may have failed, and in event of settlement not being arrived at, it shall immediately place the matter in the hands of the national officers, upon whose failure may be settled by arbitration. It shall appoint one of its number to audit the accounts of the organization quarterly. Said auditor to render a statement to each local union and local assembly. He shall have the power to call for any books, papers, vouchers or other evidence he may deem neces- sary to a correct audit, and no state officer shall act as au- ditor. The board shall examine the bond offered by the Secre- tary-Treasurer, and if, upon inquiry, it proves satisfactory, the President or Master Workman shall have it recorded in the proper office of each county in which said bondsmen may reside. In the event of the income being of such proportion as to render necessary an increase of the Secretary-Treasur- er’s bond, the board shall make such increase as they may deem sufficient. In the absence of conventions the board shall have full power to direct the workings of the organization in all matters affecting its interest. The board shall be convened by the President or Master Workman, or in case of a disagreement between the members of the board and the President or Master Workman, the Secretary-Treasurer, at the request of three members of the board shall call it together. The Executive Board shall prepare and submit to the an- nual convention a report of its year’s transactions. Article IV — Revenues. Section 1. The revenue of this organization shall be de- rived from local assemblies and local unions under its juris- diction, which shall pay to the Secretary-Treasurer the sum of 10 cents per month, the same to be forwarded to him not later than the 25th of the month for which it is due. Fractional members to pay the same in proportion, and wherever prac- ticable the same shall be checked off by the checkweighman. District 11, Revised Constitution, 1896. 433 Article V — Conventions. Section 1. The regular convention shall be held in the City of Terre Haute, Indiana, on the third Tuesday in April of each year, at which officers shall be elected for the ensuing year. Each local union and local assembly having paid all dues, assessments and levies of the organization, shall be en- titled to one vote for fifty members or less, and one vote for each additional fifty members, or majority fraction thereof. Locals having less than thirty members may vote by proxy through any authorized delegate to the convention, provided said proxy shall be in the same form as a delegate’s creden- tials. Locals having more than one vote may send a delegate for each vote, or give all the votes to one delegate, provided no delegate shall be allowed to cast more than three votes. This shall also apply to special conventions. Article VI— Officers’ Salaries. Section 1. The salary of the President or Master Work- man shall be $60 per month and traveling and office expenses. Section 2. All members of the Executive Board, except salaried officers, shall receive $2.25 per day and expenses, subject to pro rata advance while performing their duties. Section 3. All locals shall furnish their delegates to the annual convention a correct report of all per capita tax and all other moneys paid by the local to the district Secretary- Treasurer for the year preceding each annual convention. Article VII. Section 1. All nominations for state officers shall be sent to the secretary not less than three weeks before the annual convention. Said nominations shall be compiled by him and sent to all locals not later than two weeks prior to the con- vention. When more than two candidates are voted for the lowest shall be dropped after each ballot until one candidate receives a majority of all votes cast, who shall be declared elected. Article VIII — Resolutions. Section 1. Resolutions from local unions or local assem- blies shall be sent by the delegates to the convention in writ- ing, having the signatures of the President and Master Work- man and their respective secretaries, with the seal attached. Article IX. Section 1. Each local shall procure a seal and charter, together with a supply of constitutions and transfer cards. 434 United Mine Workers of America Section 2. Each mine employing thirty men, two-thirds of whom are members of this organization, shall employ a checkweighman. The checkweighman shall act as financial secretary of the local union or local assembly, and at the end of each month shall make a report to the Secretary-Treasurer of the shipment of coal and number of days worked, on form to be prepared by the executive board. Article X — Local Unions. Section 1. Where an open and secret branch exist in the same place, said branches may meet jointly and elect a Pres- ident or Master Workman, Vice-President or Worthy Fore- man, Secretary and Financial Secretary and Treasurer, who, by virtue of such elections, shall be officers of both branches after necessary qualifications, none of whom shall be liable to dual taxation. Section 2. Where there is business connected with the United Mine Workers of America they shall meet jointly to transact such business and elect officers pro tempore. Article XI — Amendments to Constitution. Section 1. That during a strike or lockout or other trou- ble, non-union men shall not receive any support from this district. Section 2. A member shall be in good standing at least three months previous to such trouble. Section 3. No man shall derive any benefits during a strike or lockout or other trouble who was not working in or around the mine when the trouble arose. Article XII. Section 1. Where members of the local unions or local assemblies are idle by reason of difficulties in trade matters and their position endorsed by the state officers for a period of one month or the majority fraction of each following month, they shall be exempt from payment of all dues and levies. Article XIII — By-Laws. Section 1. All locals shall provide their own by-laws in accordance with the state and national constitution. Section 2. The constitution shall not be altered or amend- ed only by the regular annual convention. The following addition was made to the By-Laws: All fees received by the President or Master Workman for organ- izing shall be state or district funds. Adopted, April 24, 1896. CHAPTER XXL EIGHTH NATIONAL ANNUAL CONVENTION. Columbus, Ohio., January 12, 1897. Convention called to order at 10 a. m.. President Penna in the chair and Secretary Pearce at the desk. The committee on credentials reported the following dele- gates entitled to seats in the convention : District 1 — John Fahy. District 5 — William Warner, Thomas Hayes, Patrick Dolan, John Fleming, James Buchan, T. H. Kirsop, Paul Trimmer, J. A. Cairns, Jeif Thornton, G. Wilson, Pat Mc- Bryde, William Trew, Charles E. Wallace, James Sabin. District 6 — Thomas Spink, Willard Bartoe, Jacob Collins, George Williams, P. H. Penna, Ralph Mason, W. T. Evans, J. C. Scott, Alexander Gordon, S. D. Hanna, Irvin Nanna, Cameron Miller, Charles Laurenz, Albert Thorpe, W. H. Haskins, T. L. Lewis, John Mackinaw, George Gulley, J. H. Berry, M. P. Curran, W. E. Farms, J. L. Turvey, W. H. Werker, W. C. Pearce, G. E. Wilson, Joseph Hagerman, T. W. Davis, D. W. Hanns, T. W. Thomas, J. H. Barnes, Ed. Thomas, M^JD—Ratchfard, John Kane, G. W. Shackert, Fred King, D. L. Davis, J. E. Williams, Ed. Branfield, S. H. Wilson, D. S. Richards, William Richards, Joseph Brown. District 11 — G. W. Knight, J. H. Kennedy, Thos. Morgan, Dan Llewellyn, Wm. Dean. District 12 — Stain Hodagieser, Jas. Redford, J. M. Hunter, G. D. Miller, J. O’Connor, James Carson. Wheeling District — William Anderson. District 19 — W. C. Webb. Motion, That we receive the report of committee as far as those who are not objected to and the committee be continued. Carried. Motion to adjourn to 1 o’clock to give the committee on credentials time to report. Carried. The report of officers being next in order President Penna read his report. ( 435 ) 436 United Mine Workers of America PRESIDENT PENNA’S ADDRESS, IN PART. In this, the eighth annual convention of the United Mine Workers of America, convened by constitutional provision, you have assembled to transact the annually recurring busi- ness of the organization and to legislate for the future well being of our craftsmen to the extent of your ability to do so as your combined wisdom may dictate. Your coming together as an organization is a protest against conditions under which you live and labor, and a public declaration that as a matter of common decency, men who by toil produce so much wealth, should at least have enough of their own production to main- tain them and theirs in comparative comfort. In coming to you at this time and accounting for my stew- ardship, and returning to you the trust with which you have repeatedly honored me, and speaking to you probably the last time that it will be my lot to address a body of miners, it is my purpose in presenting to you conditions as they present themselves to me as plainly as possible. But little can be said to you encouraging or containing in it any elements of hope, however much we would like to speak hopefully. At our last annual convention we came to you with words of comfort and encouragement inspired by achievements which we then sup- posed to be permanent. The joint conventions of Pittsburg and Ohio had been held and contracts made covering the year 1896. In those contracts we had, in addition to an advance in mining rates, secured terms which, in our opinion, materially improved the miners’ condition, particularly the promised abolition of that debauched and debauching institution — the company store. We justly expected that those contracts fairly entered into and so nearly satisfactory to all parties in in- terest, as we may ever hope to get contracts, would be re- spected during the term of their existence. In this we have been disappointed, and the oft-repeated story of dishonor, avarice and greed on the one hand and indolence, ignorance and duplicity on the other, must be retold to account for the cheerless conditions surrounding the miners at the closing of a year so auspiciously begun. Many of the operators never complied with the contracts made; others respected contract provisions during the busy seasons, but ignored them as soon as the trade became less and the miners’ labor not so much in demand. The glaring violations of contracts by operators are those pertaining to the clauses which abolished the company stores in one district and restricted them in their nefarious methods of operating in the other. In this they were aided by miners in their dishonorable course until those companies which are inclined to be fair and honorable were forced by competitive relationship to do likewise, and thus reductions in Eighth National Annual Proceedings 437 mining rates and wages in the two districts most largely represented here. It will be remembered that the Pennsylvania agreement made in Pittsburg, in December, 1895, to cover the year 1896, conditioned on the observance of the same by the other com- panies, particularly the New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Company, but the operators, fearing a strike would result from an attempt to enforce this condition of the contract at the commencement of the lake trade season, waived it and paid the rate agreed to — 70 cents per ton — notwithstanding the fact that the New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Company had not advanced the wages of its miners. The situation re- mained unchanged until in July some operators who had been protesting mildly and quietly, as if ashamed of their conduct, became aggressive and determined in their demands upon us for the fulfillment of contract stipulations and accord them the right to have their coal mined at the same price that said New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Company paid for mining. Your officers, with the co-operation of the district officers, struggled as long against the inevitable as was profitable to the members of our organization or fair to the companies paying the price agreed to. In September a convention of the organized miners of that district, convened by the officers at the request of the members to consider their peculiar surroundings, discovered that more than one-half of the miners were then at work at 60-cent rate or less, including some two or three organized mines. After a thorough canvass of the situation it was agreed that the contract be complied with, and the mining rate be 54 cents per ton, as paid by the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Company. Men’s prejudices were appealed to, abuse and calumny were freely brought into requisition, and even operators from whom we had received letters demanding that we comply with our agreements and insinuating that we were not honorable men for not doing so went immediately among their men and said such reduction was unnecessary and that they could af- ford to pay more. The organized miners, with more of unanimity than is usual, accepted the verdict of the conven- tion and worked on these terms during the scale year, hopeful that the joint convention arranged for, to meet in December, 1896, would be able to make better terms for the ensuing year. When the convention did meet, there were found to be such differences among the operators as to their relative positions and prices that an agreement was impossible. Operators, as a whole, insisted that the differential be abolished between Pittsburg and Ohio, the Hocking Valley excepted, and asserted 438 United Mine Workers of America that an adjustment of that question could only be had in an interstate meeting. Accordingly a resolution was adopted ask- ing for such interstate convention of Pittsburg and Ohio operators and miners and a committee appointed to make necessary arrangements for the same. Operators owning and operating mines in the Pittsburg thin vein contend that differential between thick and thin veins in some districts is too great, and the convention took steps to remedy that alleged wrong. In addition to the above, there is the ever present machine question with pick operators and miners affirming that the difference in the price per ton for mining should be diminished, while the machine operators talk of their extra expenses and sometimes losses from the use of machinery. Under these conditions an agreement could not be reached for a longer period than one month, with the hope that by the end of this month the question above referred to would be disposed of, and the way opened to make a better contract than could then be made. The price for the current month was fixed at 60 cents per ton as against 54 cents then prevailing. With the fall in prices in the Pittsburg district there came a reduction in Ohio. Ohio. In Ohio the miners and operators were working under contract made in December, 1895, to cover the year 1896, one of the stipulations of which was that the 9-cent differential between Ohio and Pittsburg district should be maintained and that the price in Ohio for mining should advance or decline as prices advanced or declined in the Pittsburg district. Thus the reduction of mining rates in Pittsburg paved the way and made probable a reduction in Ohio. Accordingly the oper- ators of this state, promptly on the decline of prices in the Pittsburg district, proposed a corresponding reduction to the miners of Ohio. The district officers called a convention early in October to consider the proposed reduction. Your officers took the position in that convention that the miners were not obliged by reason of contract provision to accept a reduction if they felt sufficiently strong to resist it. The contract made by the miners and operators had been so grossly violated in many matters of importance, so much so that we felt relieved from its restrictive obligations. The fact remained, however, that the prices could not be maintained in Ohio without a loss to her tonnage, and there was doubt among the delegates as to the miners’ ability to maintain current prices, and the ques- tion was submitted to the miners for a vote. While the vote was being taken, and before it was counted, in many instances, miners resumed work until the resumption became general Eighth National Annual Peoceedings 439 in the Hocking and Sunday Creek valleys, and in some other portions of the state. Jackson miners resisted, and are still resisting, contending for Pittsburg prices. In this contention we believe they are right and should receive the support of the miners. There is no scale of prices made for the present scale year, except as Pittsburg advanced 6 cents per ton for the month of January, Ohio also advanced, so the position of the mining industry in this state seems to be in a waiting condition for her Eastern competitors to make some ar- rangement. Indiana. Immediately following the adjournment of our last na- tional convention the miners of Indiana met in convention, and, . being confronted with a proposed reduction of prices, inaugurated a strike, which lasted until December 1, with some few exceptions, from which our organization has suffered material loss to the extent of incurring the enmity and active opposition of the employers, and losing what there was of uniform conditions existing in the state. When brought to our attention the strike had been ordered and was in progress, and we did not feel that interference on our part, except to aid in whatever way we could, was warranted. We felt that the strike was an unwise one, and that injury to our organi- zation and to the miners must result. In order to make his position clear the president reported a great amount of correspondence between the Indiana miners’ officials and himself on the question of aid and the manner in which it could best be supplied. On being asked for credentials by President Knight and Secretary Kennedy, to solicit aid with the hope of preventing a reduction to 55 cents per ton or less to Indiana miners. National President Penna responded with the statement that he would do all he could to help them in their efforts, but had little confidence in their success. He said he had never heard of arbitration or conciliation from either side, but just “fight.” He cited lack of support, and impoverished conditions justified his belief that national suspension could not be secured with 90 per cent of the miners unorganized. He shared in full with Indiana miners the wrongs under which they were suffering, closing his report as follows : The officers whom you may elect for the ensuing term will have to meet the difficulties incident to official life, and there 440 United Mine Workers of America are many employers as business men and utilitarians en- deavoring to get the best at all times which can be secured without respect to right or equity. The competitive relations of one district to another will have to be considered and their influences taken cognizance of. However disagreeable it may be, and hideous its effects, competition is here, and no matter in what garb it appears, or how it comes, it will be reckoned with in your settlements of price for mining and conditions of employment, and your officers in the future, as in the past, will not be able to ignore it. In this they will need, and of a right should have, your co- operation and support, and without this they cannot secure for you better terms with employers. They certainly will not be able to do so when, in addition to discouragement arising from the surroundings, they are deluged with public adverse criticism often amounting to slander. We have not been able during our term of office to do more than routine work. There have been no organizers at work in unorganized localities except the vice-president. Our means would admit of no more. Our numerical strength is about the same as when we met here last April, while the secretary’s re- port may show a slight improvement financially^ In view of the fact of my retirement at this time, I do not deem it prudent to burden the convention with recommenda- tions of future policy. In the present business chaos, and your attempts to bring order therefrom, your policy will have to be shaped largely by emergencies as they present themselves, and I advise that your officers be left to cope with changing conditions as nearly untramelled by rigid rules as is consistent with your duty as delegates. In now returning to you the charge with which you in- trusted me, and retiring from active participation in the af- fairs of the organization — a retirement made necessaiy by reason of domestic relations and duties — I do so with more or less regret. I shall carry with me into private life recollec- tions of conflicts, victories and defeats; recollections of true friendship and kindness, as well as those of opposite char- acter, and while I could' not, if I would, obliterate from my mind, and so long as memory performs its functions shall never forget the treatment received, naught shall be remem- bered in malice. I shall carry with me through life werever my lot may lead, a consciousness of duty well done, as it has appeared. The man who shirks the disagreeable and even painful duties incident to office in a miners’ organization and allows men to involve themselves in trouble and often intense suffer- ing without his protest while he caters to public clamor is Eighth National Annual Proceedings 441 not only a demagogue but a moral culprit. Because of this consideration I have not catered to your whims, nor sought your friendship at the expense of rectitude in discharge of duty. I shall watch your doings at all times with interest and concern, shall share with you your joy in victory and your sorrow in defeat. No matter in what sphere of life I may move, the fact will always remain that I am a miner, and can not be other than interested in your welfare. P. H. Penna. The report of Secretary Pearce dwelt on the 1894 strike and its evil effect on the finances as well as its membership, for some time past. This state of affairs the secretary de- plored and closed his report with the following well chosen words of a truism that can not be successfully contradicted : Those trades which were best organized have suffered least, while those poorly organized have suffered fearfully. And then there is the educational aspect of trades unionism to consider. Much political and economic knowledge has been obtained by the masses in recent years, all of which is prac- tically due to organized labor; and the time will come when working men will be thoroughly united on a political basis, which will be due to the healthy influence of trade unions: for as men associate and discuss, they realize their common interests and co-operate with each other. These, in short, are some of my reasons for hope in the movement in which I am engaged. During the past year I have done all in my power to increase our membership and to maintain loyal those whom I found already in the ranks. I may have committed errors of judgment, for which I crave your indulgence, but my purpose and devotion was in the in- terest of my craftsmen who have honored me. This devotion I pledge you will be my future guide, and I hope ere long we shall deserve mutual congratulations in possessing a more healthy, vigorous and powerful United Mine Workers than we now possess. Whatever I can do to that end shall be done cheerfully and faithfully. Following is my financial report: Income. Balance on hand April 17, 1896 $166.40 April 1, 1896, to Jan. 1, 1897, by tax 8,655.60 Supplies 1 244.70 Journal 2,105.25 Miscellaneous 262.50 Total $11,434.45 442 United Mine Workers of America Expenses. Salaries end expenses $7,967.54 Supplies 1,601.28 Office expenses 562.21 Telegrams, postage, expressage 484.20 Miscellaneous 296.29 Total $10,851.52 Balance on hand Jan. 1, 1897 $582.93 W. C. Pearce. Both reports were referred to committee on officers’ re- ports. Appointment of committees : On Grievance — W. E. Farms, Jerry Meade, John H. Barnes, Dan Llewellyn, W. C. Webb. On Officers’ Reports — James O’Connor, S. H. Wilson, Thomas G. Morgan, Jacob Collins, Charles E. Wallace. On Constitution — William Warner, T. W. Davis, M. P. Curran, J. H. Kennedy, George D. Miller. On Resolutions — John Fahy, Thomas Kirsop, G. W. Knight, John M. Hunter, R. Mason. Motion, To adjourn. Carried. WEDNESDAY MORNING. Convention called to order with President Penna in the chair. The different committees not being ready to report, a re- cess was taken until 1 o’clock. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order with President Penna in the chair. The next thing being the report of the auditing committee. Brother Webb submitted the following: After carefully examining the books and accounts of Sec- retary Pearce we find them neatly and correctly kept, and commend him for his good and efficient work in performing the duties pertaining to his office. W. C. Webb, R. L. Davis, Auditors. The report was received and adopted. Eighth National Annual Proceedings 443 Whereas, We believe that no practical benefit can accrue to the United Mine Workers of America by continuing in exis- tence what is known as Self-abnegation Assembly. Resolved, That said assembly be abolished. Ruled out of order. T. L. Lewis appealed against the decision of the chair ; the chair was sustained. Resolved, That we, the representatives miners in conven- tion assembled, do hereby declare that we are opposed to the signing of any scale or entering into any contracts by states or districts. The resolution was adopted. Motion, That we go to the state house steps and get our pictures taken. Carried. In the place of Jerry Meade on the committee of grievance President Penna appointed W. H. Bartoe of Blatchford. President Penna appointed on scale committee : Pat Dolan, Paul Trimmer, W. T. Evans, T. L. Lewis, G. W. Knight, J. H. Kennedy, James O’Connor, James Carson, and W. A, Ander- son. The convention adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING. Convention called to order, with P. H. Penna in the chair. Resolved, That when men apply for work who are in pos- session of a genuine United Mine Workers’ card they shall not be discriminated against, but must be given employment in their turn, as per application, unless there can be some legal objections proven against them. Carried. Resolved, That wherever possible, our sub-district, district and national organizations shall oppose any discrimination against a man for not living in a company house, and all pos- sible and practicable assistance shall be given such men by law or otherwise. Carried. President Penna appointed the following committee on 444 United Mine Workers of America drawing up a circular in regard to a defense fund: John Kane, Ed. Thomas, John Hunter, Pat McBryde. Moved, That we suspend the rules and adjourn. AFTERNOON SESSION. Delegate Hanna asked the chair if there was any hope of a joint convention between miners and operators to settle a price for this year. Mr. Penna said at present there was not. Motion, That a committee of three be appointed to make investigation in regard to this matter. Carried. Committee — W. E. Farms, George Wilson, Pat McBryde, W. Warner. Motion, That we go into executive session, and only dele- gates and members of the organization remain in convention. Carried. Report of the committee on grievances and appeals : The chairman read a circular issued by John A. Cairns in reference to a letter refused publication in the United Mine Workers Journal. The committee reported that the whole matter be dropped. This was not satisfactory to those inter- ested, and after a lengthy discussion it was disposed of in the following manner : Whereas, We believe the circular distributed by John A. Cairns to be an infamous slander. Resolved, That we denounce it as an injustice to our offi- cials and endorse the action of our president in refusing publi- cation to the same, and endorse the action taken by the Pitts- burg miners and exclude John A. Cairns from our conven- tions. Adopted. Motion, That the local represented by John A. Cairns be left with the Pittsburg delegation, and that they decide as to the casting of the vote. Report of committee on officers’ reports : Mr. Chairman and Delegates : We beg leave to report that we have carefully perused the reports and addresses of our officers, and desire to say that in our estimation they contain a true history of the events of our organization during their Eighth National Annual Proceedings 445 term of office just now closing, together with valuable advice and comment, which, if heeded by us as a craft, cannot but redound to our general advantage. With regard to President Penna’s report, we desire to say that we indeed do notice a divergence from his previous an- nual report, and perhaps a slight departure from the usual form of the annual reports of our presidents. This is the absence of elaborate argument on economic questions, and also in the absence of any emphatic recommendations in this convention. We believe that this was prompted by a true sense of delicacy and propriety, caused by his regrettable sev- erance of official connection with our organization. Notwith- standing these commissions we recognize from the intimations in his report that his economic convictions are still as strong and as decided as ever; and taking his report as a whole we desire to say that we have no unfavorable criticisms to make nor amendments to offer ; and recommend that it be adopted, and made a part of the proceedings of this convention. Secretary Pearce’s report is in line with our idea of the exigencies of the occasion, and shows a promptitude and care- fulness in the execution of the functions of his office, which we are highly gratified to see and to commend. We also recommend that his report be adopted and made part of the proceedings of this convention. Before closing this report we desire to say that we are reminded by President Penna’s address that this is probably the last of such addresses that he will make to a body of miners, much as we might desire otherwise, owing to the fact that he is retiring from the field of operations in which he has been engaged so many years. In view of this fact it seems to us fitting to, in a small measure, assure him that this retire- ment is one of the greatest losses that not only the miners of America ever sustained in the absence from their councils of one man, but also organized labor at large. We do not in any sense desire it understood that we are hero worshipers and we are not unmindful that even Brother Penna, like ourselves, is human, but we cannot forget that which we have experienced ; we always felt fortified against the enemy in those many bat- tles of mind and argument, when he was in our midst. We as- sure him that we have always felt proud of him, as one who was ever able to do us credit as our representative, and we have often congratulated ourselves on the fact that even in other assemblies of laboring men, of men selected from the cream of the intelligence of representative laboring people of this broad land, a miner in the person of our retiring presi- dent we invariably selected when oratorical ability and logical argument was a necessity, even to the extent of having been re- 446 United Mine Workers of America quested by the professors of some of our colleges to address the students of those institutions on economic subjects. All of these things, together with the fact that our em- ployers both respected and feared his sincerity and his power as an informed and resistless debater, have made us respect him, and proud of him, and regret his retirement; and we trust that his efforts in any walk of life in which he may hereafter be placed, he will be prosperous and successful ; and we hereby recommend that this body do now recognize his past services to the extent at least of electing him an honorary member of the United Mine Workers of America. Committee — James O’Connor, S. H. Wilson, Jacob Collins, T. G. Morgan and Charles E. Wallace. Motion, That the report be adopted. Carried. Adjourned to Friday morning. FRIDAY MORNING. Convention called to order at 8:30 a. m., with President Penna in the chair. Motion, That the report of the committee recommending that the bill of John Fahy for $721.34 be paid. Concurred in by committee. Carried. Motion, We invite Hon. John McBride to address the con- vention. Carried. After Mr. McBride addressed the convention at some length. President Penna read a letter from the Hocking Valley operators, agreeing to a joint convention of operators and miners as follows: Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 15, 1897. P. H. Penna: Dear Sir — Replying to the request of your committee for Interstate Convention, the Hocking operators beg to state that they will be pleased to meet the operators from Pittsburg, together with the members of your convention, for the pur- pose of fixing a price for mining for the ensuing year, for the two districts, based on the established differential of nine cents per ton between the Hocking and Pittsburg districts. If you determine to meet our operators on the above named conditions, we suggest that the joint meeting be held not later than Monday, January 18th, at 9 a. m. Awaiting your early reply, we remain, yours truly, Thos. Johnson, J. S. Morton, Eighth National Annual Proceedings 447 Motion, That the special committee be so instructed to try to bring about a joint meeting of operators and miners. Car- ried. The conves-ition adjourned for dinner. FRIDAY AFTERNOON. The following national constitution was adopted in full for 1897 : NATIONAL CONSTITUTION 1897. 'Name, Ohjects and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This organization shall be known as the Uni- ted Mine Workers of America, composed of National Trades Assembly 135, Independent Order Knights of Labor, and the National Progressive Union. Section 2. The objects -of this union are to unite mine employes and ameliorate their condition by methods of con- ciliation, arbitration or strikes. Section 3. This union shall have jurisdiction over all its affiliated bodies, which shall be governed in all trade matters by this constitution. Article II. — Officers and Their Duties. Section 1. The officers of this union shall be, one Presi- dent or Master Workman, one Vice-President or Worthy Foreman, one Secretary-Treasurer and an Executive Board of nine members, three of whom shall be the President, Vice- President and Secretary-Treasurer, who shall be elected at each annual convention. Section 2. The President or Master Workman shall pre- side at all general conventions of the union; he shall sign all official documents, when satisfied of their correctness; he shall, with the consent of the executive board, fill by appoint- ment all vacancies occurring in the national offices, and in a like manner he is empowered to suspend or remove any na- tional officer for insubordination or just and sufficient cause; he shall, with the consent of the executive board, appoint from time to time such organizers and workers as may be required ; he shall devote his time and attention to the interests of the union, and exercise general supervision of its workings, either in the field or in the national office, as his judgment dictates or the exigencies of the case require. Section 3. The Vice-President or Worthy Foreman shall act as general organizer, and shall be under the direction of the President or Master Workman, and shall succeed that officer in case of death or removal from office. 448 United Mine Workers of America Section 4. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of and preserve all books, documents and effects of the national office ; shall record proceedings of all conventions and of the meetings of the executive board, and. shall keep copies of im- portant letters sent out by him; he shall receive and receipt for all moneys, pay all current expenses ; he shall prepare and submit to the locals a quarterly report of all moneys received and disbursed and perform such other duties as may be as- signed him; he shall give a bond of $5,000 for the safe keep- ing of all moneys entrusted to him, but he shall not have more than $2,500 subject to his order at any one time. All other funds must be deposited by him, subject to the order of the executive board. Section 5. The executive board shall constitute a Na- tional Board of Arbitration and Conciliation; shall execute the orders of national conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the workings of the union. The board shall be convened by the President or Master Workman, or by the Secretary-Treasurer, at the request of three mem- bers of said board. Article III. Section 1. The revenue of the National Union shall be derived from local unions and local assemblies, which shall pay direct to the Secretary-Treasurer ten (10) cents per month per member; fractional members shall pay in propor- tion. The local secretary shall fill out and forward to the na- tional and district secretaries a monthly report of the mem- bers in good standing in the local union or assembly ; said re- port to be forwarded to the national and district secretaries on or before the 25th of each month. Section 2. In filling out the monthly report, the local secretary shall report to the national office, on blanks fur- nished for that purpose, the amount of money paid and the number of members reported to the district, and to the district office the amount of money paid and the number of members reported to the national secretary. Section 3. The national convention shall be held annually on the second Tuesday in Januaiy, at such place as may be determined upon by the preceding convention. Special con- ventions shall be called by the president or master workman, when so instructed by the executive board or at the request of five different unions or divisions. Section 4. Representatives to the national convention from affiliated districts, divisions or locals shall have one vote for 100 members or less, and an additional vote for each 100 members or majority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than five votes, and no person shall be eli- Eighth National Annual Proceedings 449 gible as representative, who is not, or has not been, a practical miner. Section 5. No local assembly or local union shall be en- titled to representation in the national convention that is in arrears for dues or assessments for three (3) months pre- ceding the month in which the national convention is held, and who has not in every particular complied with the con- stitution of the district in which said local assembly or local union may be located, and any mine within the territory under the jurisdiction of the United Mine Workers, having been once organized for a period of three months, and allowing itself to become lapsed, defunct, or refusing to pay dues to the organization, shall and must be in good standing for a period of six months previous to the meeting of the annual conven- tion, before said local union or local assembly shall be en- titled to representation in the annual or special conventions of the national or district organizations. Section 6. No locals shall be exempt from paying per capita tax unless they have been idle one month. In all cases where local unions or local assemblies desire exoneration from dues, same request shall be signed by the president, secretary and mine committee. Article IV — Strikes. Section 1. When trouble of a local character arises be- tween members of any local assembly or local union, and their employers, the officers of said locals shall endeavor to effect an amicable adjustment, and failing in this they shall im- mediately notify the officers of the district to which the af- fected locals are attached, and said district officers shall im- mediately investigate the cause of complaint, and failing to effect a peaceful settlement upon a basis that would be equi- table and just to aggrieved members, finding that a strike would best subserve the interests of the locality affected,, they may order the inauguration of a strike, but no local strike shall be legalized or supported by a district unless its inaug- uration was approved by the officers of the district, or by the national executive board upon an appeal taken by the ag- grieved members from the decision of the district offices; any local union or local assembly striking in violation of the above provisions shall not be sustained or recognized by na- tional office or officers. Section 2. Before final action is taken by any district upon questions that directly or indirectly affect the interests of the mine workers of another district, or that require a strike to determine, the president or master workman and the secretary of the aggrieved district shall jointly prepare, sign and forward, to the national president or master workman, a 450 United Mine Workers of America written statement setting forth the grievance complained of, the action contemplated by the district, together with the reasons therefor, and the national president or master work- man shall, within five days after the receipt of such statement, either approve or disapprove of the action contemplated by the aggrieved district, and such approval or disapproval, to- gether with reasons therefor, shall be made in writing and a copy forwarded to the secretary of the complaining district. Should the action contemplated by the aggrieved district re- ceive the approval of the national president or master work- man, the district shall be free to act, but should the national president or master workman disapprove the action contem- plated the district may appeal to the national executive board, which shall be convened to consider such appeal wdthin five days after its receipt by the national secretary; until the national president or master workman has approved, or the national executive board has sustained the appeal, no dis- trict shall be free to enter upon a strik« unless it shall have been ordered by a national convention. Article T — Qualifications and Solar;/ of Officers. Section 1. A member in good standing in either branch of the organization shall be eligible to hold office in the na- tional union ; provided, he has been a member of an affiliated district or division for six months prior to his election and becomes a member of both branches before qualifying for the office to which he has been elected. Section 2. President, $1,200; Vice-President, $900; Sec- retary-Treasurer, $1,000; salary of executive board, $2.50 per day and expenses, when employed by the president to work in the interest of the United Mine Workers. Article TI. Section 1. All nominations for national offices shall be sent to the national secretary not later than two months be- fore the annual convention ; said nominations shall be com- piled by him and sent out not later than two weeks prior to the convention, and no person shall be elected to any office unless his name has been sent to all locals as above specified. The national secretary shall publish the name of no candidate without first obtaining his consent. Delegates shall come to the convention instructed to vote for candidates for the re- spective positions, which vote shall be recorded and become a part of the proceedings of the convention. Section 2. No person, a member of the organization, who holds a financial or clearance card, showing him to be a finan- cial member (and in good standing), shall be debarred or Eighth National Annual Proceedings 451 hindered from obtaining work on account of race, creed or nationality; and a clearance card from any legalized or rec- ognized labor organization, anywhere, known to be friendly to the United Mine Workers of America, shall be accepted; and any member leaving a local union or local assembly, and desirous of becoming a member in any other local union or local assembly, must deposit a transfer card with recording secretary of the local union in which he desires to be a mem- ber. Due cards or clearance cards shall not admit any person to membership from one local of the United Mine Workers of America to another. And, to protect the membership of in- dividuals who are unable to pay their dues because of no local existing where they reside, the national, district and sub- district secretaries shall receive dues from them and issue to them the usual cards for the same. Section 3. Any local assembly or local union, who shall wilfully violate the above shall, if proven guilty, for the first offense be suspended from all rights and privileges for three months, and for the second offense, suspended for six months, or as long as it is deemed best by the national executive board. Section 4. That no charges shall be considered by any convention of the United Mine Workers unless such charges >e preferred in writing to the executive board, who shall hear md determine, and report to the convention their finding. Section 5. Delegates to the national convention shall be paid railroad fare to and from the convention on the follow- ing basis : Delegates shall represent five locals, if said locals contain not more than 500 members. When there are 500 members in one local, or, in a less number than five locals such local or locals shall be entitled to send a delegate. Locals isolated and who can not meet with other locals for the pur- pose of electing a delegate, shall be entitled to send a repre- sentative. The executive board shall have power to levy the members to carry out the above provisions, provided said levy be necessary. Section 6. The national officers shall have power to change boundaries and jurisdiction of districts as the condi- tions may require between conventions; provided, however, that they consult the district officers of the districts that such change of boundaries and jurisdiction may affect; and in no case shall any such change be made until affected local or locals shall have paid all tax and assessments due to the dis- trict to which it or they are attached. Section 7. Two auditors shall be elected annually, to ex- amine the books of the national secretary quarterly and cause their report to be published in the United Mine Work- 452 United Mine Workers of America ers Journal, said auditors to hold no national or district offices. Section 8. The national executive board shall have power to order a general suspension at any time during the year that they deem it necessary. Section 9. Any member of the United Mine Workers accepting a position in or around the mines other than that of a miner or mine laborer, shall cease to be a member of the organization while holding such position, this not to apply to co-operative companies receiving the indorsement of the na- tional executive board. CONSTITUTION N. T. A. 135, INDEPENDENT ORDER K. OF L. Article I. Section 1. This body shall be known as National Trades Assembly No. 135, and shall work under a charter granted by the General Assembly of the I. 0. Knights of Labor. Section 2. In all things it shall conform to the laws of the general assembly of the I. 0. Knights of Labor. Article II. Section 1. It shall be affiliated with and become a part of the United Mine Workers of America. Section 2. It shall in all trade matters be governed by the laws adopted by the United Mine Workers. Article III. Section 1. This assembly shall meet annually and a call for the convention of the United Mine Workers of America shall be considered as a call for a meeting of N. T. A. 135. Section 2. All delegates elected to the United Mine Work- ers of America from local assemblies attached to N. T. A. 135 shall become delegates to N. T. A. 135 by virtue of said election, but in all cases the N. T. A. shall have full jurisdic- tion over the eligibility of such delegates. Section 3. Delegates to the general assembly shall be elected at the regular annual session in conformity with the constitution of the general assembly. Section 4. All officers elected by the United I\Iine Workers of America shall become the officers of the N. T. A. 135 by virtue of such election; provided, they are members of the order. Article IV. Section 1. All taxes and assessments levied by the Uni- ted Mine Workers of America shall be binding upon the locals and members of N. T. A. 135. Report of the special committee : Eighth National Annual Proceedings 453 Motion, That we meet in joint convention in this city on Monday at 10 o’clock a. m. with the miners and operators of Ohio and Pennsylvania. That the special committee notify Mr. Chapman, president of the Ohio operators, of our action. Carried. It was resolved that transfer cards be sold to locals at cost ; That Jerre Meade of West Virginia be recommended to Gov- ernor-elect G. W. Atkinson as a worthy candidate for the ap- pointment as one of the mine inspectors for that state; That the national executive board draft a circular to be sent to each local enumerating all points deemed necessary to make a successful defense fund with the distinct understanding that no money be drawn from the fund without a majority vote of the members of the national organization, the details and finality of which were to be. determined at the next annual convention. The committee on scale reported that the price per ton for pick mining shall be 69 cents in Pennsylvania, 60 cents in Hocking Valley, 60 cents in Indiana, 55 cents in the Grape Creek district, and the mining rate of 1894 for the balance of Illnois. This part of the report was adopted. The convention then adjourned. SATURDAY MORNING. Convention called to order with President Penna in the chair. The scale committee continued their report: Resolved, That the Jackson and Massillon districts, Co- shocton county and No. 6 vein of Columbiana county and other coal fields, demand nine cents per ton above Hocking Valley mining rate. That the time when the scale shall go into effect be left with the National Executive Board and district presidents. The election of officers follows: For President, Michael D. Ratchford; Vice-President, John Kane; Secretary- Treasurer, W. C. Pearce. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Executive Board Members: John H. Kennedy, R. L. Davis, Patrick Dolan, Fred Dilcher, Henry Stephenson, James M. Carson. 454 United Mine Workers of America Auditors: Willard Bartoe and Thomas Kirsop. Delegates to American Federation of Labor convention: T. L. Lewis, P. H. Penna, M. D. Ratchford. Whereas, The late annual convention of the Ohio miners recently held in this city, unanimously endorsed Mr. Van L. Drake of Columbus, Ohio, foreman of the United Mine Worh- ers Journal composing room, and who is a member of Typo- graphical Union No. 5, for appointment to the position of state supervisor of public printing; therefore, be it Resolved, That we, the delegates to the eighth annual con- vention of the United Mine Workers of America in conven- tion assembled, do heartily approve of the action taken by the Ohio miners ; and, be it further Resolved, That we would regard the appointment of Mr. Drake to the position as one particularly pleasing to us, and as a just recognition of a worthy man. Concurred in. Whereas, The retirement of our esteemed brother, Cam- eron Miller, from active service in our official ranks presents a suitable occasion for expressing the esteem in which we hold him as an efficient and courteous official; therefore, be it Resolved, That the thanks of the United Mine Workers of America are hereby tendered him for the able and prudent manner in which he performed the duties of his office, and we sincerely regret that his personal demands oblige him to sever his official connection with us; and be it further Resolved, That this body elect him an honorary member of the United Mine Workers of America, and that these reso- lutions be spread upon the minutes, and a copy be engrossed and presented to Brother Miller. Concurred in by convention. Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 16, 1897. The eighth annual convention of the United IMine Workers of America, being assembled in regular session, adopts the following : Whereas, P. H. Penna, who for the past thirteen years has been an active participant in the affairs of the organized miners of the United States, and who from the second year of the existence of the United Mine Workers of America has been an official of the organization, and who has for the past two years been national president of this organization is about to retire from official position; and Eighth National Annual Proceedings 455 Whereas, Brother Penna has amply proved himself to be a man of exceptional ability and sound integrity, and one who has on every available occasion proven his masterful conception and grasp of all the various and diverse complex- ities of the coal trade, and thereby has been ever ready and qualified to defend our position where reason was permitted to be the arbiter of any dispute; and Whereas, The height of economic knowledge to which he has attained, has enabled him wherever he appeared among our ranks to transmit to our craftsmen ideas and lessons which have helped and which are still helping them in their serious studies of their industrial and economic oppression, and which will continue to exert a healthful influence on even generations yet to come, therefore, be it Resolved, That we do now hereby express our profound regret at his departure from our midst, and trust that for- tune and an all wise providence will vouchsafe to him in his future spheres of action, health, happiness and prosperity, and that we trust that no matter in what field of activity or place of life he may find himself, it is our ardent hope that the sights of injustice he has seen and mentally experienced, the tyrannies and oppressions he has witnessed and com- bated, the pain and anguish he has read and translated, as few men can translate them, on the faces and forms of men, women and children who for years have been his admir- ing clients, will always remind him that his intellectual fac- ulties and his trenchant oratory morally belongs to those that the exigencies and responsibilities of life, home and offspring force him reluctantly to bid adieu to; and that they will still be exerted in their behalf. Again we resolve that it be our ardent wish that his future may be bright and full of happi- ness ; and be it further Resolved, That this preamble and resolutions be engrossed, and shall embody the resolution already passed, making him an honorary member, and shall be presented to him. Carried unanimously. Nominations for place of next annual convention: Co- lumbus, Ohio; Indianapolis, Ind., Pittsburg. Columbus re- ceiving the majority vote was declared the place of meeting. Adjourned until evening. SATURDAY NIGHT. Convention called to order at 9 p. m. with President Ratchford in the chair. Motion we now go into executive session. Carried. 456 United Mine Workers of America Moved, That Editor Kane be the press reporter of this convention. Carried. Whereas, It is recognized that W. P. DeArmit, president of the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Co., has been the prime cause of the low price of mining in the entire competitive field, therefore be it Resolved, That we jointly lend our support to the establish- ing of the district price at the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Co. mines; and that we reconsider the motion in regard to entering into a yearly contract. Carried. Adjourned sine die. M. D. Ratchford, President. W. C. Pearce, Secretary. SPECIAL CONVENTION OF ILLINOIS MINE WORKERS. Springfield, Illinois, April 1, 1897. Convention of the organized and unorganized miners of Illinois, met in supervisor’s room of the City of Springfield on above date pursuant to a call authorized by regular state con- vention last February. State President James M. Carson called the convention to order at the appointed time and selected W. E. Smith, Coal City; George Hunter, LaSalle, and Joseph Ogerek, Minonk, committee on credentials. After a recess of fifteen minutes the following were reported as duly accredited delegates: W. E. Smith, Coal City; John Mitchell, Knox Alexander, Spring Valley; George Hunter, George Watkins, LaSalle (Jones’) ; J. M. Irvin, Bloomington; J. L. Gehr, Bartonville; Robert Douglas, Oglesby; Thomas Hallam, James Barrow- man, Jr., W. D. Ryan, Braidwood; James Gallagher, Dawson; John W. Love, Carbon Hill; Chris. Lorenzoni, John McCul- loch, Toluca; J. J. McAndrews, Henry Hewlett, Nicholas Cowell, Spaulding; James M. Carson, A. R. Yeager, O’Fallon; J. E. Miller, Staunton; Hermann Koeppen, Alex. Suttie, George Kakara, Jacob Stanley, John M. Hunter, George D. Miller, Streator ; W. E. Cooke, LaSalle and Rockwell ; Martin Bolt, Ladd; William Scheerschke, Kangley; William Scaife (honorary) ; John McDonald, Marquette; Benjamin Thomas, Clarke City; Joseph Ogorek, Minonk; G. E. Daly, Diamond. Special Convention, District 12 457 The chair then appointed the following committees : Resolutions — A. R. Yeager, O’Fallon; James Barrowman, Braidwood; J. E. Miller, Staunton. Press committee — John Mitchell, Knox Alexander, Spring Valley; James Barrowman, Braidwood. The official call was then read, and in a few well chosen remarks President Carson declared the convention ready for business. On motion, W. J. Guyman was accorded a voice and seat in the convention. The roll was then called in order to give each delegate an opportunity to report the local conditions in their respective locations. W. E. Cooke, representing LaSalle and Rockwell, reported no organization ; prospects not very bright ; mine run system, 66% cents in winter, 59V2 cents in summer; worked less than half time for past year. Instructed against screens of any kind. At this point National President M. D. Ratchford and Secretary-Treasurer J. H. Kennedy, of Indiana, arrived on the scene, and the regular order of business was postponed in order to give them an opportunity to address the conven- tion. President Ratchford spoke at considerable length, con- fining his remarks principally to the necessity of a perfect organization, conducted on business principles. The special convention was in session three days and dis- cussed the advisability of legislative action, the disorganized condition throughout the state, and passed a number of resolu- tions bearing on the action of members in the state legisla- ture that worked in favor of the mining interest. A demand for 10 cents per ton advance on mining rates was made, with a final resolution. That all delegates pledge themselves to leave nothing undone that would help to build up and strengthen the organization both north and south. President Ratchford rendered valuable assistance by way of advice on legislative matters considered and acted upon. It was a revival of interest between the organized and unorganized men deeply in earnest for a stronger consolida- 458 United Mine Workers of America tion of their collective well-being as miners suffering under the pressure of capital that was taking advantage of the scattered mining forces throughout the state. The work of the convention was commented upon as hav- ing been of great value to the miners as a whole, and in the midst of pleasantries the meeting adjourned. CHAPTER XXII. EIGHTH ANNUAL CONVENTION OF DISTRICT 11. Terre Haute Indiana, April 25, 1897. The eighth annual convention of district 11 met in the City of Terre Haute, Indiana, at 10 a. m., Tuesday, April 20, 1897, and was called to order by President Knight, who ap- pointed the following committees : On Credentials — Eli Mott, W. R. Williams and John Jen- nings. On Order of Business — Hugh Archibald, W. D. Van Horn and John Buckley. The committee on order of business submitted the follow- ing: We, your committee on order of business, beg leave to submit the following report: The hours of meeting shall be from 8 :40 a. m. until 12 m., and from 1 :30 p. m. until 4 p. m. ; also night sessions if necessary. Cushing’s Manual to be the guide. Moved and seconded, that the report of the committee be adopted. So ordered. The committee on credentials submitted the following: John Buckley J. H. Kennedy, Lee Canady, William Tipton, William Reece, George Seldomridge, Dan McKellof, John Harrison, John Jennings, M. Bledsoe, W. D. Van Horn, John Cludon, Hugh Archibald, Samuel Thorp, Eli Mott, W. R. Wil- liams, James Harkins, Charles Miller, A. McGranahan. Vice-President Dan Llewellyn and board members T. G. Morgan and J. C. Smith were present ; also G. W. Lackey and ex-President G. W. Purcell were given a seat in the conven- tion. National Vice-President Kane was also present. Eighth Annual Proceedings, District 11 459 Moved, That the report of the committee be received and delegates seated. Carried. President Knight then appointed the following commit- tees : On Resolutions — T. G. Morgan, William Tipton, Lee Can- ady. On Constitution — J. C. Smith, Samuel Thorp, M. Bledsoe. On Grievance — C. Miller, John Harrison, George Seldom- ridge. On Officers’ Reports — John Buckley, William Reece, W. D. Van Horn. On Auditing — Eli Mott, Hugh Archibald, James Harkins. Brother Brock, of Clinton, applied for permission to sit a while, which was granted. Brother M. S. Canady was also allowed a seat in the convention. President Knight then submitted his annual report to the convention ; also Secretary Kennedy. Reports referred to committee on officers’ reports. Moved and seconded. We now hear a report from dele- gates. So ordered. Seldomridge — To do his best to maintain 60 cents, best terms possible. McKellof — Same ; prices now 47 cents screened, and at one mine 25 cents run of mine; day men $1.80. Miller — Not instructed; prices now 47 cents screened; day men $1.80. Bledsoe — 60 cents if possible; best terms possible; price now 60 cents. Van Horn — 60 cents, and 20 cents per hour for day men. Clinton and Reese — Same. Buckley — The best terms possible; prices now 52 cents; day men from $1.50 to $1.80. Archibald — 60 cents if possible ; if not next best terms. Harrison — 60 cents, or best settlement possible. Mott, Tipton, Thorp, Canady, Jennings and Williams — Same. Harkins — 60 cents. Kennedy — For Bicknell, 60 cents. McGranahan — Best terms possible. 460 United Mine Workers of America Convention adjourned. Convention called to order by President Knight at 1 :30 p. m. Committee on officers’ reports: Gentlemen of the con- vention, in submitting our report we have very little to say, as the very able report of your officers is largely history of the acts and conditions of the organization. However, we recommend that this convention take some action on the recommendation of President Knight, in which he recom- mends that Indiana and Illinois each reserve their respective district organization, with a joint board of three from each state to be appointed, neither to make a scale without the sanction of the joint board and state officials and by a major- ity vote of the miners of both states. After some discussion on the question the report of the committee was, on motion, accepted; but that action on rec- ommendation in regard to Illinois be tabled until after the joint convention. Agreed to. Brother John Kane was called to give his views of the general conditions surrounding the coal industry. Vice-President Kane then took the floor, and for an hour the delegates gave him the closest possible attention. He re- viewed with great care the competition in the central com- petitive field, dwelling on the situation in Western Pennsyl- vania and conditions existing in West Virginia, and also in eastern and southern Illinois. “The only conclusion I could come to was that only by a revival of the interstate agree- ment could the industry be improved and both miners and operators benefited. Let us hope that our leading operators and miners will exert their energies in that direction.” At the conclusion of Brother Kane’s remarks, Brothers Lackey and Pascoe came into the hall. Brother Pascoe made his report as to the situation in Sullivan county. He reported a very unfavorable condition of affairs in that county, and was not much encouraged to believe they could be greatly improved at this time, some of our brothers in the Clinton district having been discharged in violation of the laws of our state. The matter was discussed and, on motion, the incom- ing officers were instructed to push the matter in the courts, Eighth Annual Proceedings, District 11 461 and that the locals working do what they can to bear the expense and assist the victimized brothers. Convention then adjourned. WEDNESDAY MORNING. Convention again called to order by President Knight at 8:30. The committee on resolutions, being ready to report, sub- mitted the following: Whereas, There is at present some of our members black- listed and have entered suit against company ; therefore be it Resolved, That we render such financial aid as may be re- quired or necessary to defray expenses so far as our ability will permit. Carried. The following was presented to the convention: Whereas, At many places in district 11 advantage has been and is being taken of the perfectly open method of doing business which has been in vogue among us for years; there- fore, to further prevent this advantage being taken of us by our enemies, be it Resolved, That the incoming executive board of district 11 be authorized to so extend or amend the manual of procedure as to fit the case of those locals desiring to work in secret, and that said extension and amendments be submitted to the na- tional executive board for its ratification, when the district executive board shall furnish the same to all locals who make application to the district secretary for the same. Adopted. Brother Lackey was then called to report the result of his labors in the northern field for the past two or three weeks ; he reported that he had only met with moderate success in the way of organizing, but gathered some very useful information in regard to conditions existing at the unorganized mines in the northern part of our state and the Danville, Illinois, field. Brother Lackey’s report was received. The auditing commit- tee then submitted the following report : We, the undersigned auditing committee, beg leave to make the following report: 462 United Mine Workers of America We have carefully examined the books of the Secretary- Treasurer, and find them as he has reported to the convention. We find that on November 10, 1896, there remained on hand: Strike fund .$718.23 Collected between November 10 and end of strike 2,103.74 Total .$2,821.97 Disbursed to men on strike 1,919.20 Balance 1 $902.77 On hand general fund, April 1, 1896 $315.66 Received from all sources 1,946.04 Total .$2,261.70 Expenditures for the year ending April 1, 1897 1,857.07 Balance on hand April 1, 1897 .$404.63 Received for victimized men $20.86 Disbursed to victimized men 10.00 Balance on hand $10.86 After having gone through the books of our Secretary- Treasurer we could not help making some comment upon the simplicity and neatness in which Brother Kennedy keeps his books. He certainly is a credit to our union as a bookkeeper. James Harkins, Hugh Archibald, Eli Mott, Committee. The report of auditing committee was received. Committee on constitution submitted the following: That there be added to Section 3, Article 6, That any local failing to comply with Section 3, of Article 6, shall be barred from representation at the succeeding convention. Adopted. At this point a telegram was received from Linton Local Union 14, as follows: “Docking system being sought to be enforced. Men on strike.” Noon having arrived, the convention adjourned for din- ner. Convention called to order at 1 :30 p. m. by President Knight. Moved, That it is the sense of this convention, that the Eighth Annual Proceedings, District 11 463 delegate from Local Union 14 will advise his local to adjust matters the best they can until we have time to attend to it. Carried. Election of officers: All candidates for president having withdrawn except Brother Knight, the secretary was, on mo- tion, instructed to cast the vote for the convention for Brother Knight. Brother Llewellyn was elected vice-president. For secretary-treasurer, John H. Kennedy. Executive board. Lackey, Mooney, Smith and Harkins. After the election. President Knight was called on to ad- dress the convention, which he did briefly, offering some good advice. The newly elected officers all made a few remarks. After some discussion as to what course to pursue when we meet our operators tomorrow, the convention adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by President Knight at 9 o’clock. Moved, That as we meet our operators tonight, we now go into a discussion of the scale question. Agreed to. This question was discussed until noon, all delegates tak- ing part therein. Moved, That a committee of seven be appointed to draw up some plan of action to be pursued when we meet our em- ployers. Agreed to. The committee was composed of Archibald, Smith, Ken- nedy, Llewellyn, Van Horn, Lackey and Buckley. Messrs. Kane and Knight as advisory members. The convention then adjourned. Convention called to order by President Knight at 4:30 p. m. The scale committee submitted the following report: That the price of mining be 60 cents per ton. All outside day labor, 20 cents per hour. Entry price for dry entries, $1.25 per yard; medium wet, $ 1 . 371 / 2 ; extra wet, $1.46 ; breakthroughs between rooms, same as entries; room turning, $3. Day men and miners to 464 United Mine Workers of America be checked alike, that is, all dues and levies to be paid in office. That all deficiencies shall be recognized and paid for. Where impurities appear in top or bottom, or both, they shall be paid for at the rate of 3 cents per inch, per lineal yard. Report accepted. Moved, That a committee of three be elected to act in con- junction with the committee, of Illinois in trying to bring about closer relationship between the two states. Carried. Committee, G. W. Lackey, J. C. Smith and T. G. Morgan. The convention adjourned at 11 o’clock, sine die. CHAPTER XXIII. GOVERNOR ATKINSON WRITES TO LABOR LEADERS. State of West Virginia, Executive Chamber, Charleston, August 3, 1897. Messrs. Gompers, Sovereign and Ratchford, Committee, etc. Gentlemen : Referring to your visit to me several days ago, in which there was a friendly discussion between us of certain phases of the labor troubles in this state, and especially of the strike of the coal miners, and of your several telegrams recently received, and referring also especially to your desire that I should take steps to secure to you and the workingmen of the state the right and privilege of holding public meetings for the discussion of matters concerning the welfare of the said miners, I beg to say to you that I have given the matter most earnest consideration. In this controversy there are to be considered both the rights of property and the rights of the citizens. In our talk you spoke of a certain injunction that had been issued by the circuit court of Marion county against you and others, accord- ing to the terms of which, as you understand them, you were prohibited from holding public meetings for the purpose of discussing the benefits of the organization of the coal miners of the Fairmont region. I understand that this injunction has not been served upon you, and that you have not been called upon to make any answer thereto. The circuit court of Marion county belongs to the judicial department of the state government, which is a separate and independent department from the executive, and it would be Copies of Original Injunctions 465 obviously improper for me to express my opinion as to whether said injunction was properly or improperly issued, or whether it is too sweeping in its character, or too compre- hensive in its scope, and especially as the matter has not yet been determined by the supreme court of this state, to which you can take an appeal, and in which you can, I have no doubt, have a fair and proper hearing. I have, however, requested the Attorney General to appear in the matter and assist in having an early adjudication by the supreme court of the state of this injunction proceeding. I have done this because the injunction presents somewhat novel questions, and I be- lieve it is the first of the kind to be issued in this state, and because it affects the rights of a large number of the citizens of West Virginia. The bill of rights of the constitution of this state guaran- tees to the people thereof “The right to assemble in a peace- able manner, to consult for the common good, to instruct their representatives, or to apply for redress of grievances.” And it also provides that “No law abridging freedom of speech or of the press shall be passed.” These are rights which have come down to us from the days of Magna Charta, which rights, as long as I am governor, shall be preserved to the peo- ple of the state, if in my power so to do. It is the right and the duty of the legislature to enact laws ; of the courts to construe them, and of the executive to en- force them. No one of these departments should interfere with or usurp the functions or prerogatives of the others. I will say, however, that I now hold and have always held, that the right of free speech and of public assembly should in no wise be abridged, and that the widest possible liberty should be allowed all of ©ur people. I have always maintained that both labor and capital had the inherent right to organize for the better protection of both of their interests, provided such organizations are made and maintained within the restric- tions of the statutes of our state. It is improper and unlaw- ful to use threats, force or intimidation of any sort to induce men to connect themselves with or become a part of any organized body of capitalists or laborers. It is also improper and unlawful for any body of men, organized or unorganized, to trespass upon the property or premises of a citizen ; but it is my opinion that labor organi- izers or capital organizers, or any other organizers, for that matter, may present their causes in a proper manner, in pub- lic places, to the people, and induce them by moral suasion to connect themselves with any organization which is not in itself unlawful in its aims and purposes. In other words, I claim the right for myself as a citizen of West Virginia, to discuss 466 United Mine Workers of America politics, religion, science, labor organizations, or any other subject I may choose to discuss, in public halls, or on public highways, provided always that I confine myself to the requirements of the law which inhibits me from trespassing upon the property and vested rights of other citizens. I mean to say that the bill of rights or our constitution allows me these privileges, and that no court can impair these rights, if I confine myself to moral suasion, and do not incite the people to riotous conduct or other unlawful acts. So long as the working men of this state conduct their cause in a lawful and peaceful manner it will be my duty, as it will be my pleasure, to protect them; but if they should, in an ill-advised hour, violate the law by interfering with the fights or property of others, it will be my sworn duty to re- press energetically and speedily all lawlessness, and to see that the public peace is maintained at all hazards, and that the property of our people is protected; for we must all, whether rich or poor, employer or employe, high or low, respect and obey the law. Very respectfully yours. Signed, G. W. Atkinson, Governor. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, DISTRICT OF WEST VIRGINIA, SS. THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, TO THE MARSHAL OF THE DISTRICT OF W^ST VIRGINIA. You are commanded to summon Fred Dilcher, F. J. Weber, Wisconsin; W. H. Haskins, Chris. Evans, M. D. Ratchford, citizens and residents of the State of Ohio;. Eugene V. Debs, a citizen and resident of the State of Indiana ; Pat Dolan, M. D. Mahon, citizens and residents of the State of Michigan, and Joseph Vitchestein, citizen and resident of the State of Penn- sylvania, and all their confederates, associates, agents and promoters, whose citizenship and places of residence are un- known, if they be found in your District, to be and appear in the Circuit Court of the United States for the District of West Virginia, aforesaid, at Rules to be held in the Clerk’s office of said court, at Charleston, on the first Monday in October next, to answer a certain Bill in Chancery, now filed and exliibited in said court against them by the Macdonald Collieiy Com- pany, a corporation, a citizen of and resident in the State of West Virginia, and hereof you are not to fail under the pen- alty of the law thence ensuing, and have then and there this writ. Witness, the Honorable Melville W. Fuller, Chief Justice West Virginia Injunctions 467 of the United States, this 16th day of August, A. D. 1897, and in the 122d year of the Independence of the United States .of America. Attest: L, B. Dellicher, Clerk. Seal: Circuit Court, United States, District West Virginia, Charleston, West Va. MEMORANDUM. The said defendants are required to enter their appearance in this suit in the Clerk’s office of said Court, on or before the first Monday of October, 1897, otherwise the said bill may be taken 'pro confesso. L. B. Dellicher, Clerk. Copy Teste: L. B. Dellicher, Clerk. INJUNCTION. AT A CIRCUIT COURT HELD FOR KANAWHA COUNTY, AT THE COURT HOUSE THEREOF, ON THE 17TH DAY OF AUGUST, 1897, THE FOLLOWING ORDER WAS MADE AND ENTERED OF RECORD : WINIFREDE COAL COMPANY ) VS. > IN CHANCERY. CHRIS. EVANS, FRANK J. WEBER, ET ALS. ) This day the Winifrede Coal Company, by counsel, ten- dered its Bill of Complaint against Chris. Evans, Frank J. Weber, S. C. Harless, Pat O’Connor, Charles Hannigan, Coger Belcher, Richard Thomas and their confederates and asso- ciates, which is ordered to be filed, and thereupon the said plaintiff moved the Court for an injunction as prayed for in said Bill. Upon consideration of which, it is, until the further order of the Court, adjudged, ordered and decreed as follows: That said defendants and each of them and their associ- ates and confederates and all persons acting with them and their respective agents and servants be, and they are hereby inhibited, enjoined and restrained from threatening or coerc- ing in any manner any of the miners and employees of the plaintiff, the Winifrede Coal Company, because of their work- ing for said plaintiff ; and from attempting in any manner to induce by or through intimidation, threats, force, coercion or compulsion of any kind, any of said miners and employees to quit the service of said company or to quit working for said company; and from assembling or causing to assemble any body or company of men in or about or within close prox- imity to said company’s mines, property or works; and from being a part of any such body or company of men ; and froni 468 United Mine Workers of America going upon said property, mines or works; and from annoy- ing or harassing or attempting to annoy and harass in any manner any of said miners and employees while at work or while going to or returning from work or while in, at or about their homes, because of their being at work for said plaintiff, or for the purpose of inducing them to quit work. But this injunction shall not take effect until the plaintiff or some one for it shall execute bond before the clerk of this Court in the penalty of $1,000.00, conditioned to pay all costs and damages sustained by the defendants or any of them, if it shall here- after be determined that this injunction ought not to have been awarded. And upon such bond being given, the sheriff of this county is directed in addition to serving copies of this order upon the defendants to post copies thereof in and about the mines and works of said plaintiff and at such public places as the plaintiff may direct. Witness : Grant P. Hall, Clerk of our said Court at the Court House of said county, the 17th day of August, 1897, and in the 35th year of the State. (Signed) Grant P. Hall, Clerk. Bond with approved security has been executed as re- quired by the foregoing order. Teste (Signed) Grant P. Hall, Clerk. SUMMONS IN CHANCERY. THE STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA, To the Sheriff of Kanawha County, Greeting: We command you that you summon Chris Evans, Frank J. Weber, S. C. Harless, Pat O’Connor, Charles Hannigan, Coger Belcher, Richard Thomas, their confederates, asso- ciates and co-conspirators whose names are to the plaintiff unknown — defendants — if they be found within your baili- wick, to appear before the Judge of our Circuit Court for the County of Kanawha, at rules to be held in the Clerk’s office of said court on the first Monday in October next, to answer a bill in Chancery, exhibited against them in our said court, by Winifrede Coal Company, a corporation, and have then and there this writ. WITNESSETH : Grant, P. Hall, Clerk of our said Court, at the Court House of said county, the 18th day of August, 1897, and in the 35th year of the State. (Signed) Grant P. Hall, Clerk. Special National Convention 469 FRANK J. WEBER, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LA- BOR ORGANIZER, RENDERING AID IN WEST VIRGINIA, 1897. Montgomery, W. Va., August 25, 1897. Friend Chris Evans: R. L. Davis is here. I had him speak to the colored men. I went to Powelton without the Army. As no one appeared yesterday, I will visit Powelton again in the morning. We start at 12 :30 a. m., in order to be on the field early. A few men went in at Boomer’s Branch, and another army will arrive there at 4 a. m. I have not heard from Mason since Sunday. I wish you would notify him to gather all men west of Handly and march to Acme. I have appointed committee to visit the St. Clair Coke miners and ask them to lay down as we must close down. I have not heard from New River. I will march in two divisions to Powelton — one up the rail- road, and the other through Morris Creek over the mountain. As soon as I return I will report. If I am successful at Pow- elton I will try Ansted or the Gauly Mountain mine. With best wishes, I remain. Yours fraternally, F. J. Weber. SPECIAL NATIONAL CONVENTION. Columbus, Ohio, Sept. 8, 1897. Convention assembled at Wirthwein hall at 10 o’clock a. m., 167 delegates being present when President Ratchford and Secretary Pearce took their respective positions, and the former rapped for order and announced the first order of business as the appointing of committees on credentials and order of business, as follows : Committee orC Credentials — George Schackert, Ohio ; Daniel Llewellyn, Indiana; W. D. Ryan, Illinois; Paul Trim- mer, Pennsylvania; C. H. Jones, West Virginia. Committee on Rules and Order of Business — S. H. Wilson, Ohio; William Dodds, Pennsylvania; Hugh Archibald, In- diana; James Richards, Illinois; J. W. Satterfield, West Vir- ginia. Motion, Recess until 1 o’clock, to give committees time to report. Carried. 470 United Mine Workers of America AFTERNOON SESSION. President Ratchford in the chair. The committee on credentials reported delegates entitled to seats as follows: Indiaim — W. G. Knight, Dan Llewellyn, G. C. Wedding, Montgomery, Linton and Washington; W. G. Knight, Cox- ville and Eagle ; Hugh Archibald, David Pearce, Lyford, Clin- ton and Geneva; P. D. Roberts, Brazil; Ed Mott, L. U.’s 525, 780 and 433 ; George Chesterfield, J. H. Kennedy, Farnsworth and Hymera. Ohio — John Whelan, P. M. North, Grinton Ballentine, Walter Edwards, David Ayers, James Sargent, Michael Cur- ran, David Barclay, Charley McGlinchio, George Gully, Ed- ward Graham, Jacob Collins, Isaac Cole, Morgan Evans, George Robinson and S. H. Wilson, Wellston; S. W. German, Joseph Smart, Jobs mine; Ed Graham, M. K. Learned, F. W. Quayle, Samuel Shuttleworth, Thomas Jenkins, Wm. E. Apple- garth, S. R. Helm, G. W. Shackert, John Hannigan and John Marouny, Murray City machine mines; Charley Stiner, James McKee, Herman Byrns, Hemlock and Carrington, H. B. Jones, John Adley, Jas. Kerr, Jas. McKee, Frank Johnston, Jacob Ashman, J. B. Boyd, B. F. Brown, Jacob Burr, D. H. Sullivan, John A. Sigman, George A. Wheeler, Marion F. Gatten, W. H. Crawford, John Connors, William Row, Joseph Evans, William Gander, Frank Johnson, Thomas Moriarity, Jeff Thornton, Owen Murray, Andrew McKenna, H. S. Rasser,’ Frederick Powell, D. C. Jones, L. D. Gillian, D. S. Richards, James Parks, John J. Mossop, Edw. Branfield, Jos. Davis, T. L. Lewis, Edward Thomas,, Jacob Pojuski, Robert War- dle, James 0. Rodgers, W. C. Pearce, John Keller, Briarly Bennett, W. E. Farms. Pennsylvania — Patrick Dolan and William Warner, Peter Sample, John Rae, Charles Laird, Henry Walter, eight mines on Monongahela; John S. Hamilton, W. S. Miller, Ed S. Thomas Wm. George, Thomas Cataway, Paul Trimmer, Frank McKenna, Jacob Affalter, Thomas Kinnej^ at large; Jeremiah Lavanche, W. H. Hindsmarsh, John Driscol, D. C. Blose, Sanday, Turtle and Plum Creek. Illinois — ^W. Russell, Felix Radgewell, William Topham, Special National Convention 471 Joseph Pope, Thomas Gallagher, W. D. Ryan, Thomas Baker, Thomas McBride, James S. Richards, George D. Miller, Alex- ander Bradley, Alfred Klang, W. E. Smith, Martin Bolt, James M. Page, Matthew Charlton, John Belger, Robert Douglas, James M. Cuson, John Pepinhouse, Alexander Brad- ley, P. J. Kosnan, John B. Milburn. West Virginia — William Phelps, I. N. Coffman, C. H. Jones, S. L. B. Clair, Andrew Watkins, M. Jennings, John S. Flynn, J. W. Satterfield, J, W. Rea, William Anderson, John Muir, John W. Hindmarsh, Patrick Comer, H. Stevenson, R. Askew, Alex. Wayth, J. H. Burris, M. V. White, F. A. Banister, Clarence Bracken, T. H. Carlin, Frank McDonald, Fred Dilcher, George Robinson, Chris. Evans, James Whitney, Montgomery. Motion, That the report be received and committee re- tained. Carried. Your committee on rules and order of business to govern this special national convention beg leave to offer the follow- ing report: 1. Convention shall meet at 8 a. m. and adjourn at 12 noon; convene at 1 :30 p. m. and adjourn at 6 p. m. 2. Roll call of delegates. 3. Each delegate shall have one vote for 100 members or less, and an additional vote for each 100 members or majority fraction thereof. 4. Each delegate be limited to 10 minutes on any one sub- ject, and no delegate be allowed to speak twice until all have been heard who wish to speak. ORDER OF BUSINESS. 1. Report of officers. 2. Report of delegates. 3. Report of the committee on resolutions. 4. Miscellaneous business. 5. Cushing’s Manual shall govern the rules of this con- vention. Motion, That we adopt the report of the committee as read. After discussion as regards representation, it was adopted, Dan Llewellyn voting no. Motion, That we go into executive session to hear reports of officers. Carried. 472 United Mine Workers of America Ratchford, Knight, Carson, Farms and Dolan made re- ports. The hour for adjournment having arrived. President Ratchford, before declaring the meeting adjourned, appointed the following : Committee on Resolutions — William Warner, Pennsylva- nia; G. C. Wedding, Indiana; Martin Bolt, Illinois; Andrew Watkins, West Virginia, and Dennis Sullivan, Ohio. Adjourned until 8 a. m. Thursday. THURSDAY MORNING. The morning session opened with Ratchford in the chair and Pearce at his desk. Roll called and absentees noted. The committee on credentials went in session and further cor- rected its report. Committee made its report in full, which was adopted. The report of officers was then continued, and Dilcher, Davis, Kennedy and Stephenson addressed the convention. On motion that organizers J. W. Rea, of the Painters and Decorators; Robert Askew, secretary of Northern Mineral Mine Workers’ Association, and Chris. Evans, of the Ameri- can Federation of Labor, all of whom have been in the West Virginia fields almost from the inception of the strike, be requested to address the convention, which they did in the order named. The noon hour having arrived, the convention recessed until 1 :30 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Ratchford in the chair. The first business, he said, was an expression from the delegates on the situation in their respective localities, to- gether with the views of the constituents they represented. On the roll being called, each delegate responded with a brief statement of instructions given, the result of which showed that the greater number of delegates were given dis- cretionary power in order that they may act in accordance with their best judgment after learning the situation of affairs throughout the various coal fields involved. John Driscoll and W. D. Ryan were added to the commit- tee appointed on resolutions, and the convention adjourned. M. D. RATCHFORD, FOURTH PRESIDENT, 1897, 1898. 474 United Mine Workers of America FRIDAY MORNING. Ratchford in the chair and Pearce at the desk. Roll called and absentees noted. Motion, That a press committee of three be appointed by the chair to give out any news there may be for the public. Carried. The committee appointed consisted of Chris. Evans, J. H. Kennedy and William Warner. Continued report of committee on resolutions that were adopted. That the secretary furnish mopey to those needing it to enable them to remain until final adjournment, the same to be considered a loan until returned. That the vote be taken at 8:30 tomorrow morning. Moved, To adjourn until 8 a. m. tomorrow. Carried. SATURDAY MORNING SESSION. President Ratchford in the chair. First order of busi- ness: Further consideration of the report of committee on resolutions : Resolved, That we, the miners of Pennsylvania, West Vir- ginia, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, in convention assembled, do hereby agree to accept the proposition recommended by our national executive committee, viz. : 65 cents in Pittsburg dis- trict, all places in above named states where a relative price can be obtained to resume work and contribute liberally to the miners who do not receive the advance, where the fight must be continued to a finish. Resolved, That the national officers, executive board and district presidents act as an advisory board for the purpose of providing ways and means for the carrying on of the strike where necessary. Provided, however, that no district resume work for 10 days, for the purpose of giving miners in other districts time to confer with their operators and get the price if possible. At this juncture a committee of three was appointed to draw up resolutions on the death of Brother Kane. The chair appointed T. W. Davis, J. H. Kennedy and H. Stephenson. After considerable discussion, a vote by roll call was taken, which resulted as follows : Total number of votes, 824 ; Special National Convention 475 in favor of resolution, 407 ; against the resolution, 415 ; not voting, 2; majority against, 8. A point of order was raised as to the right of a delegate to change his vote or after refusing to vote, when roll call was in progress, voting after the call was completed. The chair ruled that a delegate could change his vote, or, if he had refused to vote when the roll call was in progress, could have his vote changed or recorded before the vote was announced. An appeal was taken from the decision of the chair to the convention, resulting in sustaining the ruling of the chair. Adjourned for dinner. AFTERNOON SESSION. President Ratchford in the chair. Motion, That we reconsider the resolution passed before the noon adjournment. Carried. During the afternoon. General Master Workman Sover- eign, of the Knights of Labor, who had come into the conven- tion hall, was requested to address the delegates, which he did in brief but eloquent, earnest manner, giving good advice and urging unity of action. After further discussion, a vote was taken, which resulted as follows : In favor of the resolution, 495 ; against the reso- lution, 317; declined to vote, 11; majority in favor, 178. Paul Trimmer and Thomas Kinney explained and desired to be recorded as voting for the resolution, because of the statements made that the machine question would be arbi- trated in the near future. Moved, That we extend the session until 6 :30 p. m. Carried. Moved, That the resolution be referred to the executive board for completion. Whereas, On the 10th day of September, 1897, the sheriff of Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, and his deputies, deliberately shot down a number of innocent miners who were peaceably marching for the purpose of trying to induce their fellow workingmen who had refused to lay down their tools and de- mand a living rate of wages ; and. Whereas, Without the least provocation, said sheriff gave the order to fire, killing, wounding and maiming many ; and. 476 United Mine Workers of America Whereas, We believe the same to have been a deliberate murder on the part of the said sheriff ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we denounce the said Sheriff Martin as a deliberate murderer and wholly unfit to fill the position to which he was elected by the votes of honest workingmen; be it further Resolved, That we, the United Mine Workers of America, extend to the bereaved ones, which includes mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and other kindred relatives, our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of their loved ones. Carried. Resolution pertaining to machine mining in the Pittsburg district. Moved, that the resolution be referred to the Na- tional Executive Board. Carried. We, the officers, members and representatives of the United Mine Workers of America, in convention assembled, recognize the fact that our success in the present struggle is due largely upon the moral and financial help tendered us by others ; therefore, be it Resolved, That our thanks are due and are hereby ex- tended to the various trade unions and their representatives who have taken the field in our behalf, and also to the gener- ous public who so nobly responded to our appeal in the time of need. Carried. Resolved, That an assessment of 10 per cent of all moneys earned by the miners at work be collected and used for the purpose of maintaining the miners idle until such time as scale rate can be obtained for them ; and it is further Resolved, That a circular appeal be issued by the National Executive Board to organized labor and to the public gen- erally, asking them to assist us in the caring and keeping of all mine workers in the field who are idle for the enforcement of scale rates, all moneys and provisions to be sent to Secre- tary Pearce and distributed pro rata to the miners on strike from the national office. Carried. Report of committee on condolence: We, your committee to prepare appropriate resolutions upon the death of Vice-President John Kane, of the United Mine Workers’ Association, desire to say that we recognize our inability to properly express our sentiments of sorrow and Special National Convention, 1897 477 regret at the death of one whom we honored and respected for his sterling honesty as a man, for his irreproachable con- duct as a member of our national executive board, as editor of the United Mine Workers Journal, and lately as the Vice- President of our association, and we desire to say that in all these positions of trust and responsibility he was always found doing his duty as he saw it and with the single object of benefiting and advancing the cause of his craftsmen in par- ticular, the cause of labor generally, and the universal eleva- tion of humanity. While the late lamented Brother John Kane devoted much of- his time and attention to the advancement of his crafts- men, he was fearless in his advocacy of our cause, where his reason and judgment confirmed his idea of right and truth, the cause of the poor and oppressed of all classes found in him a sympathizer, a friend and defender, who never faltered nor deviated one iota from the plain path of rectitude and duty, therefore it is fitting and proper that we, his fellow craftsmen, who knew his life and services, and his worth as a man and official and appreciated the same, do take this opportunity, the first time we have met in national conven- tion since his demise, to give our collective expression to our feelings ; therefore be it Resolved, That while we bow in humble submission to the will of the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, who we are taught to believe does all things well and for the best, we acknowledge our loss as a craft, our heartfelt regret at the sudden demise of an upright man and a loved official of our organization, cut off in the bloom of his life and before the existence which gave promise of so much good to humanity had reached full maturity; and be it further Resolved, That we extend to the invalid wife, who was de- prived of a loving husband and a kind helpmate, a friend, companion, counselor, nurse and guide all at once, at a time when she was unable to take care or provide for herself, our sympathy in these days of sad affliction. And we also extend the same sympathy to other afflicted members of our de- ceased brother’s family. And be it further Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions become a part of the official record of this convention, and that a copy be sent to the bereaved wife and relatives, and be published in the United Mine Workers Journal. T. W. Davis, H. Stephenson, J. H. Kennedy. 478 United Mine Workers of America Moved, That the report be accepted and an engrossed copy be presented to the family. Carried by a rising vote. Moved, That a vote of thanks and confidence be extended to the executive board. Carried. Moved, That a vote of thanks be extended to the Sergeant at Arms, I. N. Coleman. Carried. Resolved, That while the miners are not parties to the uniformity agreement now being executed in the Pittsburg district, and are not therefore bound by any provision thereof, but left free at all times to suggest such modifications affect- ing their interests as to them may seem proper; never- theless, they view it in its entirety as a most important and beneficent measure, sure to result, if adopted, in great and lasting benefit to them as well as to their employers. Resolved, That they have watched with deep interest the progress of its development and execution, and hereby tender their thanks to those operators who have been instrumental in putting it forward as well as to all signers thereof. Resolved, That the miners will exert individually and in their organized capacity every proper influence and power they possess to consummate its execution and to extend its principles in other bituminous fields. Resolved, That, As this measure is by its terms to be oper- ative only till 1899, and then be subject to renewal with such modifications as experience may dictate, and as it is already well under way, fault finding at this time is inopportune ; that there must be individual concession to reach a general agree- ment in which all can unite, and that we appeal to all opera- tors who have not yet signed the agreement to waive any objection they may have thereto and give it their support. Resolved, That the present is an auspicious time for miners and operators to unite throughout the bituminous fields in putting the coal industry upon a more stable, secure and re- munerative footing both as respects operators and miners and at the same time do no injustice to consumers, and we declare ourselves ready to unite in taking any reasonable steps to bring about that condition among which steps we rank in ‘uni- formity’ as the chief. Adopted. Convention adjourned sine die. JOHN KANE, EDITOR JOURNAL, 1891, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. VICE-PRESIDENT JANUARY TO JULY, 1897. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD, UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA, 1897. StnrullnK i'm'iI IHli^hor, W. C. I’wirci*, Soorotary: K. Ti. Davln. HlttiiiK- PntrlrU !>o)aii. Jo)m Knm*, V Ico- f*roHler yard of coal ! 1-15 jMining dry entries, per yard, not to exceed 6 ft. in width, bank measure 2.2S Mining break-throughs between entries entry price Chitting througli horsebacks or rolls, 18 in. thick 2.00 Re-setting posts, each -10 Cleaning falls in rooms, per car -10 Entries — Working single, must be 6 ft. nude; double, must be 8 ft. wide. Wet entries, 25 cents per yard extra. Double shifting entries, 25 cents per yard extra. Scale Prices Sub-District 5, District 6 499 Belmont, Harrison and Jefferson Counties. Mining breat-throughs between rooms, per yard $ .90 Room turning, 7 ft. wide, 21 ft. deep 6.00 Room turning, for each yard less in deptli, deduct -92% Room turning, for each foot more in width, deduct .70 Cleaning slate, extra 1.75 Tuscarawas County. Mining break-throughs between rooms, per yard $ .70 Room turning, 7 ft. wide, 21 ft. deep 2.75 Room turning, 6 ft. wide, 6 ft. deep 2.00 Day Labor. Per Day Track laying $1.90 Drivers 1.65 Inside labor 1.65 Water haulers 1.65 Gagers 1.65 Firemen 1.65 Trappers .70 Checkers : ! 1.65 Tri*mers and dumpers 1.50 Outside labor 1.40 Expires December 31, 1897. CONVENTION DISTRICT NO. 5, DECEMBER, 1897. Pittsburg, December 20, 1897. The convention was called to order at 10:15 a. m., with Vice-President Edward McKay in the chair. The first order of business was the appointment of the following committee on credentials: James Watchorn, Walter Calverly, W. W. Plaster. After a brief recess, the committee on credentials reported the following delegates present: Henry Gillman, Mathew Linn, John Havack, Albert Andrew, Charles Fickell, John Sykes, Hugh Whetherspoon, William Woodhall, J. C. Wilson, Hugh McBryde, Henry Walker, William Duffer, James Mc- Gowan, John Froelich, James B. Riley, Charles E. Wallace, Walter Calverly, Arthur Goodwin, Edwin Short, Thomas Wilds, Archie Robinson, Phil. Hanlon, John McGouldick, Henry Ponder, William Taylor, Edward McCune, John Fitz- patrick, James Maloy, Mike Rice, Andy Fish, William W. Plaster, William Darnley, Reuben Dempos, Ed. Thomas, John P. Ferry, John T. Evans, William Frew, John Davis, Sam. Edwards, Sam. Pardoe, Mathew Kerrigan, James McMannus, James Murray, Henry Kouche, P. Rupert, W. H. Thomas, 500 United Mine Workers of America James Watchorn, Nick Ehl, Banning, Joseph Hopson, Bar- ney Dowds, W. J. Best, Sam. Shultz, John Campbell, Julius Dumont, John McCormick, Nick. Augustine, George Ashman, Mike Somon, Joseph Craig, R. Williams, William Beveridge, James Hoey, John McGuire, Leonard Gross, Charles Lance- burger, Pat. McFarland, Andy Barey, William Adams, Thomas West, Alex. Cameron, William Smith, James Lennex, Albert Evans, Thomas Brannon, Alphus Gottsetz, John Breckenbaugh, Griffer Thomas, Henry H. Cain, H. Savage, Richard Mulvaney, Henry Delosh, Hugh Polin, E. J. Burley. Eighty-four delegates present. One delegate represented the drivers. The chair appointed the following committee on resolu- tions: Walter Calverly, James McMannus, James Hoey, Henry Walker, John Froelich, John McGuire, Hugh Polin. Secretary Warner presented his report, a part of which follows : Mr. President and delegates to the convention : I submit to you for your earnest consideration, the fol- lowing report, which is as complete as the circumstances up to the present time will permit. The following is the amount that has been received since the beginning of our national strike inaugurated on the 4th of July: The total amount received up to date, $17,109.15. We have as a result of our failure to receive sufficient funds to meet all the demands that have been made upon us, considerable obli- gations. The following is a statement of our indebtedness: Our indebtedness to campers who have been promised pay by the executive board at the rate of $1.25 per day and board, $1,000; for provisions and supplies, $800; for loans, $400; making a total of $2,200. This does not include anything for strikers who are yet in need of support and who appeal in large numbers daily to us at our headquarters, and it must be remembered that according to expectations we owe those strikers benfits due them since the 25th of October, nor does it include anything for the assistance of strikers who seek employment elsewhere and to move their families. I will next call your attention to the immense expense that was required to furnish food to the hundreds, and sometimes thousands that were engaged in marching miles across the country to our camps for the purpose of inducing the em- ployees of the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Company to join our strike. Pittsburg Convention, December, 1897 501 We have on file in the office, bills that show over $2,000 worth of provisions and supplies have been furnished for this purpose. He said $15,000 had been expended : $10,000 for campers and strikers, $3,000 to relieve the needy and $2,000 to supply other campers in the field. In addition to the three items above mentioned, he said: There was all expenses to be added. The secretary’s report was voluminous, treating in detail the conditions of the dis- trict; his inability to impress upon the delegates the real facts of the situation that confronted the district officials because of the heartrending appeals made for aid by miners on strike ; efforts made to borrow funds in order to meet obligations entered into for money expended to buy food for strikers, and their families and the lack of finance at their command, closing his report as follows : In conclusion, I wish to give you my honest opinion and advice, as I believe the opinion and advice of your officers is yours and it is their duty to express their opinion to you and continue to give their advice at all times, fully realizing, as I have already stated, that it is an utter impossibility to re- port to the rank and file in detail the circumstances during this entire time. I emphatically make this statement to you that your officers have been thoroughly honest and competent, that they have given every moment of their time to your af- fairs, sacrificing to a great extent all private wants of their own to accomplish that which was desired and which is ab- solutely necessary to give peace to the coal trade and living wages to the miners. Taking in view the great benefits that the miners have derived from the public and other labor or- ganizations, your officers should at the least calculation have had $10,000 per week. The miners of this district could easily have afforded to have. made this amount, as only about one-half of that received has been paid by the miners of this district. As your officers who have had daily experience and who have come in contact with all the circumstances and diffi- culties, we earnestly believe and so submit to you that the accomplishment and the management of affairs with $17,000 of funds is more than worthy of your compliments and your approval, and if you are true to your officers, as I submit to you that your officers have been true to you, you will give them your approval as far as they have gone. Hoping that co-operation, confidence and support to one another will replace the present feeling and sentiment that 502 United Mine Workers of America exists among some as it has been exhibited plainly to us, I remain, Sincerely yours, William Warner. Convention adjourned to give committee on resolutions time to report. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention was called to order at 2 :45 p. m. Moved and seconded that the reporters be admitted. Car- ried. Reporters were instructed by the chair that any portion of the proceedings requested not to be published they should not publish. The committee on resolutions not being ready to report, Christopher Evans was requested to address the convention. He advised that the delegates confine themselves strictly to the questions for which the delegates were called together as time is precious. Joseph Bishop, J. B. Johnson, secretary of the Uniformity Committee and Wm. Carney of the Almalgamated Associa- tion addressed the convention. Committee on Resolutions of- fered the following : Whereas, God in His allwise providence has thought pro- per to take from our respected brother, Patrick Dolan, his be- loved wife, thus depriving him of a faithful helpmate and their children of a good and loving mother, Therefore be it resolved. That we, miners assembled in convention, extend to the bereaved brother our heartfelt sym- pathy and sincerely hope that these of our craft and everj’ other craft will stand ready at any and all times to serve our brother, if the same be required. Carried unanimously. Resolutions were presented as follows : 1st. That we demand a price equivalent to 75 cents per ton over inch and one-half screen for the year 1898. 2d. That we demand three-fifths shall be the price for loading after the machine with a differential of 5 cents per ton between the chain or cutterbar and the pick machine, this 5 cents per ton to go to the loader. Pittsburg Convention, December, 1897 503 3d. That we are positively averse to two prices for driv- ing, and that in the future only one price shall prevail, and that shall be $2.00 per day on a 65-cent rate referred. 4th. That we recommend that a committee be appointed to reconsider the dead work scale and that a specified price be named for thick slate, black-jack, ripping-roof, etc. 5th. Seeing that such a diversity of opinion exists as to the differential between thick and thin vein, we favor submit- ting the same to the convention for their adjustment. 6th. That the differential between the Pittsburg district and the State of Ohio be referred to the convention. 7th. That we favor establishing the run of mine system in accordance with the recent Act of Legislature and that we carry the same to the Supreme Court. Executive board empowered to raise funds. 8th. That we favor a uniform price, and that those oper- ators refusing to adopt uniform conditions be compelled to pay 10 cents per ton over the district price. 9th. That each delegate use his best efforts to get his employer to sign the uniformity agreement. 10th. The following resolution was presented to the com- mittee which we offer without recommendation. Resolved, That we river and railroad drivers demand $2.25 per day, ten (10) hours’ work. Resolved, That we leave the stable at 6 o’clock, take one hour for dinner and be at the stable at 5 o’clock p. m. Resolved, That all overtime be paid for according to day’s wages. Resolved, That you sign this scale and put into effect the same as miners’ scale. Moved that we discuss the report seriatim. Carried. First resolution read and adopted. Moved that the second resolution be referred to a commit- tee of experienced machine miners. Carried. Moved that we adjourn until 7 o’clock, p. m. Convention adjourned. EVENING SESSION. Convention came to order at 7 o’clock, p. m., with Uriah Bellingham, member of the board, in the chair. Moved that we proceed with business. Carried. Third resolution read. Amended that it be referred to the committee that meets the operators. Amendment carried. 504 United Mine Workers of America Fourth, fifth and sixth resolutions were read and adopted. Moved that two sergeants-at-arms be appointed, and any delegate disobeying the ruling of the chair shall be ejected from the convention. Carried. George Ashman and Henry Walker were appointed ser- geants-at-arms. Seventh resolution read. Amended that we empower the executive board to raise funds. Motion and amendment adopted. Eighth resolution read. Moved and seconded that we adopt it as read. Christopher Evans read the following as a substitute : Pittsburg, December 20, 1897. Whereas, It has long been recognized and is known that payments in merchandise, store orders, scrip, etc., and un- certainty in weights upon which earnings are determined, constitute evils from which coal diggers have and do now suffer much more than the workmen employed in any other industry, and Whereas, A number of coal producers in the Pittsburg district have indicated a willingness to endeavor to correct these evils, through their signatures to the uniformity agree- ment, and have asked the miners to assist in the work thus undertaken, and in order to carry out the conditions named in the uniformity agreement, and the expressed desire of those operators that have signed the agreement, that miners shall demand a differential of ten cents per ton more from operators that refuse to sign ; be it Resolved, That we, the officials and miners in convention assembled, declare our willingness to use all efforts possible to carry the same into effect, provided, all operators that have, or may, sign the agreement will give us their moral sup- port. Resolved, further. That in the event of a failure on the part of operators to carry out the above provisions, we cannot hold ourselves responsible for any change in our position, made necessary for reasons above stated. Resolved, That the officers of this convention signify our position, purpose, and action in this regard to J. B. Johnson, secretary of the operators’ convention held in Pittsburg, De- cember 16th, 1897, by certifying to him copies of these resolu- tions this day adopted by said delegate convention of miners. Moved that the substitute be adopted. Pittsburg Convention, December, 1897 505 Substitute carried. Ninth resolution read. Moved that it be adopted as read. Carried. Tenth resolution was considered disposed of by a former resolution. The following resolution was offered : Resolved, That we favor the calling of an Inter-State con- vention of operators and miners at as early a date as possible, for the purpose of considering prices for the ensuing year. Adopted. Moved that we ask for 49 cents per ton, run of mine. Car- ried. Moved that we adjourn to meet in joint convention. William Warner, Secretary. Pittsburg, December 21, 1897. Joint convention of operators and miners was called to order by Vice-President McKay of the miners. President Ratchford placed in nomination Dr. Anderson, operator, to act as permanent chairman. National Secretary Pearce, of the miners, placed in nom- ination Secretary Warner, of the miners, as secretary. G. W. Schluederberg nominated Mr. R. J. Bailey as as- sistant secretary. The officers nominated were elected by acclamation. Operators present were: T. E. Young, Shepplar Gas Coal Co. ; Geo. Schluederberg, Oak Ridge Coal Co. ; Henry Floer- sheim ; Francis L. Robbins ; D. M. Hanna, M. A. Hanna Co. ; J. C. Dysart, Chartiers Block Coal Co. ; W. P. Rend, Pittsburg & Western Coal and Coke Co.; Joseph Rend; C. W. Somers, J. H. Somers & Co. ; W. A. Andrews, Imperial Co. ; Geo. Hoo- sack, Bridgeville Coal Co. ; J. E. Boyle, M. McCue & Co. ; W. J. Steen, 0. I. C. Co. ; D. M. Anderson ; John O’Neil, Ella Coal Co. ; C. Hitchcock, Moon Run Coal Co. ; Wm. Wilson, Ridge- way, Bishop Coal Co. ; F. M. Osborne, Osborne-Saeger Co. ; E. Saeger, Osborne-Saeger Co. ; L. Hornickle, Panhandle Coal Co. ; A. J. McCartney, Youghiogheny Gas Coal Co. ; Jno. Newell, Jas. W. Ellsworth & Co. ; Jesse H. Sanford, Boyd Coal Co. ; J. J. Steytler, Blythe Coal Co. and Slope Mine Co. ; W. P. 506 United Mine Workers of America Shinn, Mansfield Coal & Coke Co.; C. W. Baine, Morgan, Moore & Baine Co.; C. Weisser, Lake Shore Gas Coal Co.; John Blythe, John Blythe & Co. President Ratchford, (miner) proceeded to address the convention upon the objects of the gathering. Moved and seconded that the chairman appoint two door- keepers, one operator and one miner, to keep out any persons that may be undesirable to either side. Carried. Uriah Bellingham, miner, and Wm. Steen, operator, were appointed doorkeepers. The following were added to the list of members of the con- vention: M. D. Ratchford, W. C. Pearce, Chris. Evans. Moved by Dempster, operator, and seconded by Rend, operator, that we revive the former interstate arrangement. Operators, Robbins, Schluederberg ; and miners, Pearce and Evans made short addresses approving of an interstate convention. The following delegates were placed upon the minutes: Jas. Maloy, L. U. 480, DuBois, Pa.; John Friel, Reynoldsville, Pa. ; P. McGowan, Lindsay, Pa. ; John Rae, Lake Shore, Dravo, Pa. ; W. E. Pugh, DuBois, Pa. While President Ratchford was addressing the convention. Secretary Warner asked the attention of the chair, stating that two men (J. A. Cairns and John Flannery) had forced their way through the doorkeepers. Secretary Warner moved that they be ejected from the hall at once. It was promptly seconded and carried. Col. W. P. Rend, operator, addressed the convention, pay- ing a grand tribute to the purpose of inter-state conventions. The former resolution for reviving the interstate arrange- ment was adopted unanimously. Moved by Operator Robbins and seconded, that a com- mittee be appointed of three from each side to arrange the details of the calling of such an interstate convention. Car- ried. Alexander Dempster, F. L. Robbins and F. M. Osborne, operators ; M. D. Ratchford, W. C. Pearce and Ed. McKay, miners, were appointed. Moved that we adjourn. Carried. Pittsburg Convention, December, 1897 507 AFTERNOON SESSION. December 21, 1897. Convention was called to order at 2 :10 o’clock p. m. The committee appointed to arrange the details of an In- terstate convention reported the following: Moved by Mr. Dempster and seconded by Mr. Ratchford, that a committee of operators be appointed from this state to confer with like committees from other states and miners’ representatives relative to the date and program for the Inter- state convention, and establish a temporary price until such convention is held, and said committee to meet in Columbus, Ohio, on Monday, 27th inst., at 3 p. m., at the Chittenden Hotel. Mr. F. Robbins, Chairman. W. C. Pearce, Secretary. Operator J. B. Zerbe offered an amendment to strike out the words “that a committee of operators should meet the National Executive Board of the miners to establish a tem- porary price of mining from January 1, 1898, until the inter- state convention takes place,” and the following be substi- tuted : “That the present price shall continue.” J. B. Zerbe, Ohio & Pennsylvania Coal Company; Chas. Hartley, Hartley & Marshall, and N. F. Sanford, Moon Run, were added to the members of the convention at the afternoon session. The amendment not having received any second, the resolution was called for and adopted. The following committee was appointed : Operators — F. L. Robbins, J. C. Dysart, F. M. Osborne, U. A. Andrews, W. R. Wilson. President Ratchford for the miners stated that the Na- tional Executive Board and district presidents would act for the miners on this committee. J. W. Shields, Osceola Coal Company, and M. H. Taylor of Erie, were admitted. No business seemingly being before the convention. Presi- dent Ratchford moved to adjourn. Secretary Warner offered the following : Moved that a joint committee of operators and miners be 508 United Mine Workers of America appointed to take up any other questions of interest, their agreement to be binding upon all parties. Amended that at all mines where the dead work scale is not paid that they enforce it. The original resolution as amended was voted upon and carried. Moved that the joint convention adjourn. Carried. Wm. Warner, Secretary. Miners remained in session to hear an address from Presi- dent Ratchford. Delegates having run of mine, 46. With screen, 37. Who have gone back to screen since the court decision, 14. Moved that we adjourn. Carried. The miners’ convention came to order at 10:10 a. m., De- cember 22, with Vice-President Edward McKay in the chair. President Dolan addressed the convention upon the ques- tion of support for the New York and Cleveland Gas Coal Company’s strikers. Moved, That a committee be appointed to draft resolu- tions covering the question. Carried. The chair appointed the following; John Rae, Chas. Wal- lace, John Campbell, Hugh McBryde, William Frew, Andrew Ferry, Julius Dumont, James Watchorn, Sam Edwards. Moved, That the price fixed by the National Executive Board and the committee of operators, from January 1 until the inter-state convention, be the price. The committee on resolutions reported the following: Seeing that there have not been sufficient funds coming into the district office to cany on the strike at the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Company’s mines to a success, therefore, be it Resolved, That we continue the strike at the New York & Cleveland Gas Coal Company’s mines and pledge ourselves to support the same and a committee of strikers be appointed to receive the funds and collect them. Adjourned for dinner. Ninth Annual Convention District 6 509 AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention reconvened at 1 :20 p. m. The following was offered by Walter Calverly : Whereas, We have found ourselves confronted with the question of differential as between the thick and thin vein in the Pittsburg district, and after carefully discussing the mat- ter from every standpoint conceivable, but yet are unable to solve the problem, and are satisfied that the proper place to handle this question is at the proposed interstate convention ; therefore, be it Resolved, That the question be referred to the proposed convention for adjustment. Carried. Moved, That this convention recognizes no other system but run of mine until the law is decided by the supreme court. Carried. Moved, That we adjourn sine die. William Warner, Secretary. CHAPTER XXV. PROCEEDINGS— NINTH ANNUAL CONVENTION OF DISTRICT NUMBER 6. Columbus, Ohio, January 6, 1898. Convention called to order by President Farms at 10 o’clock a. m. Owing to a number of the delegates not bringing creden- tials the committee on credentials were not ready to report; a recess was taken until 11 o’clock a. m. to give the committee time to report. Convention reconvened at 11 a. m. and President Farms extended the delegates a hearty welcome, and expressed the hope that the delegates would be calm and considerate in their deliberations. The committee on credentials was then called upon and reported the following delegates entitled to seats in the con- vention: John Perkins, T. L. Lewis, Frank Johnson, Jacob 510 United Mine Workers of America Ashman, Samuel Wilson, Joseph Staley, John Jenkins, David Wilson, W. C. Scott, William Simons, M. G. Flinn, William H. Worker, W. C. Pearce, John Archibald, M. D. Ratchford, Jubal Tetlow, Charles Winchell, John Maloy, W. P. Long, Harrj'^ Charles, Marion Hull, C. L. Kimes, I. N. Coleman, Henry Holterman, James McKee, Val. Cox, D. W. Wallace, Charles Aulton, Thomas Cole, Z. Emery, Thos. Taylor, Frank Chris- tian, Gwilim Savage, John Warded, Morris Henshaw, Owen F. Murray, John Oakley, Stephen Kennedy, Frank O’Donnell, T. R. Jones, John Whelan, Francis K. Minck, John Taylor, William Morgan, P. H. Friday, Ed. Graham, D. R. Lewis, Fred Powell, P. J. Gorman, J. J. Mossop, Allen Treaharn, Richard Neason, Jacob Collins, Conrad Wein, Jos. Smart, Alex. John- son, J. J. Donnahue, W. J. Carpman, John Thomas, C. W. Fisher, Jas. M. Stewart, Wm. P. Mullen, Richard Fitzgerald, Guard Cady, H. A. Fanning, Geo. Hamilton, J. D. Gillilan, Edward Abram, George Schackert, S. R. Helm. After a few minor corrections, the report was accepted and committee continued. President Farms then appointed the following committees : Order of Business — Richard Neason, W. Friday, William H. Meeker, William Simons, Joseph Smart. Officers’ Reports — Dan W. Wallace, John Oakley, T. R. Jones, John Thomas. Grievance — J. J. Mossop, G. Savage, Ed. Graham, Jacob Collins, Joseph Staley. Resolutions— W. C. Scott, Fred Powell, Thomas Cole, J. J. Gillilan, James M. Stewart. Constitution — J. H. Barnes, Alex. Johnson, James McKee, S. H. Wilson, P. J. Gorman. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Farms. After the report of committee on rules and order of busi- ness had been given and accepted. President Farms reviewed the situation of the district. A part of his report follows : On December 28 to 31, 1896, when we held our last district convention, the mining rate in Ohio was only 45 cents a ton Ninth Annual Convention District 6 511 pick and 22i^ cents per ton machine mining. On January 1, 1897, this price was advanced to 51 cents per ton pick and 251/2 cents for machine mining. On February 6, the representa- tives of the General Hocking Coal company wired me from Columbus, requesting a conference as soon as possible. Upon meeting with these people the following day, or February 7, we were given the names of forty mines located in the thin vein district at Pittsburg, which were then only paying 54 cents a ton instead of 60 cents, which was then the recognized Pittsburg thin vein scale rate. We were very politely but most positively informed that unless the 60-cent rate was re- stored at the Pittsburg mines a cut to 45 cents a ton would be made in the Hocking Valley to meet the competition, and all of you know that a cut in the Hocking valley meant a cut all over the state. We promised that we would give the matter our careful consideration, and at once called the attention of the national officials to the situation, who, be it said to their credit, at once gave the matter their attention, and by reason of their exertions in the Pittsburg district the mining rate of 51 cents was preserved in Ohio. This rate remained undisturbed until May 26, when I re- ceived the following letter : Cleveland, Ohio, May 25, 1897. W. E. Farms, State President, United Mine Workers of America. Dear Sir ; From information in our possession it appears that the general price paid for mining in the Pittsburg thin vein district is now 54 cents a ton, and as our efforts to sell coal from the Ohio fields are comparatively fruitless on ac- count of the relative inequality in the mining price would suggest that a conference take place in the near future be- tween the undersigned committee, yourself and Mr. Ratch- ford, for the purpose of endeavoring to arrange a mutually satisfactory solution of the perplexing question. Respectfully yours, J. S. Morton, W. R. Woodford, Committee. Immediately upon receipt of this letter I called at the na- tional^ office and held a consultation with the national officers. At this conference it was decided that I should send to Messrs. Morton and Woodford the following reply : 512 United Mine Workers of America Columbus, Ohio, May 28, 1897, Messrs. J. S. Morton, Columbus, Ohio, and W. R. Woodford, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 25th inst. received. Reply- ing would say that Mr. Ratchford, and probably Mr. Kane and myself, will be pleased to meet you in Columbus any day you may name on or after June 10, 1897. Mr. Ratchford is now in Pittsburg and can not conveniently meet with us before that time. Will this proposition suit you? Please reply. Yours respectfully, W. E. Farms. On June 2, while doing other business with Mr. Morton in his office, relative to mine 21 in the Sunday Creek district, June 15 was mutually agreed upon as the day we should meet in Columbus and discuss the situation. On this date President Ratchford and myself met the operators’ committee, and in the discussion which followed they (the operators’ committee) represented that 80 per cent of the thin vein mines at Pitts- burg were then only paying 54 cents a ton instead of 60 cents, which at that time was the Pittsburg thin vein scale rate. Neither President Ratchford nor myself could refute or gain- say what they said. We knew it was true and merely heard their statements and promised them that we would do our best to bring those mines up to scale rates. In order to do this we asked for an adjournment to June 25, and this was agreed to by the committee. On June 25 we again met, re- ported progress made in the Pittsburg district, heard the operators’ committee’s decision that the 45-cent rate would be forced in Ohio regardless of consequences, and again ad- journed, this time without date. We at once explained the true situation to the national board and district presidents, who, by the way, had been in session since June 24, After a lengthy discussion by those officials of the whole situation, it was unanimously agreed to order a national suspension, to take effect July 4th, for the enforcement of the scale adopted at the national convention held January 12 to 16, 1897. At the commencement of this suspension it might be well to state that we had, roughly estimated, organized and un- organized 21,000 miners and mine laborers in the Pittsburg district, 8,000 in Indiana, 35,000 in Illinois, 22,000 in West Virginia, and 25,000 in Ohio, not including the miners of the Pomeroy Bend, making a grand total of 111,000 miners and mine laborers in what is known as the competitive field. Out of this vast number we had only at that time 10,678 members, all told, in good standing, in the national organization. The Pittsburg district had 1,975 members, Indiana 626. Illinois 226, West Virginia, 75, Ohio 7,697, and Iowa, which is not in Ninth Annual Convention District 6 513 the competitive field, had 79 members. We are proud of Ohio — well may we be proud of her. You will notice that she had at the inauguration of the suspension over two and a half times as many members in good standing as all the other states combined in the national organization. I trust that our sister states will profit by the position of the Ohio miners. This suspension lasted from July 4 until September 11, when it was called off by a national convention, composed of all those who had taken part in the struggle (organized and unorgan- ized) on a compromise proposition, the price agreed to being 56 cents a ton, pick mining, and 28 cents a ton, machine min- ing, for Ohio, with a verbal understanding that these prices should stand until January 1, 1898. On June 21 we were forced to send to each of the auditors, whose duty it is to audit the books of the secretary-treasurer semi-annually, the following letter : “Bridgeport, Ohio, June 21, 1897. “Mr. I. N. Coleman, Auditor, District 6, U. M. W. of A., Nelsonville, Ohio. “Dear Sir and Brother: Owing to the present financial condition of the organization, a direct result of but little work, and as the organization is in debt to a considerable amount, we think it best to postpone the auditing' of the books until the regular annual audit, when you will be notified to meet in sufficient time before the annual convention to audit the books and examine credentials as per Article VII, sections 3 and 5, constitution of District 6, United Mine Workers of America. “We arrived at this conclusion only as a matter of neces- sity, and we believe it to be the best interests of the organiza- tion at this time to not make a public statement of our condi- tion. With best wishes we are yours fraternally, “W. E. Farms, “T. L. Lewis.” We have organized many new locals and reinstated many old ones, the most important accession made to our organiza- tion during the year being the 2,100 miners of the Massillon district, who, on November 4th, through their representatives assembled at Massillon, decided almost unanimously to return to the United Mine Workers of America in a body. They had not been connected with the organization for over two years. Strikes. We have only had a few local strikes during the year. A history of these, we believe, could not be of interest to you at this time, further than to say that all, or nearly all, were 514 United Mine Workers of America settled amicably and generally to the satisfaction of our peo- ple. Especially is this true of the one at Coshocton, November 18 to 22, where the miners received a considerable advance by being brought up to scale rates. Recommendations. I would recommend that where convenient our miners form valley, county, or competitive delegations. This, I think, should be encouraged by both miners and operators, as it would, in my opinion, tend to maintain uniform prices and conditions throughout the entire competitive districts and be the means of preventing local strikes by giving one operator no undue advantage over another. I would also recommend that that part of the constitu- tion making it obligatory for relapsed locals to pay three months’ dues for reinstatement be changed. I believe it would be to the interest of the organization that they should be ad- mitted by paying dues from the beginning of the month in which they are reinstated. If we had, what we have not, namely, an organization with every miner and mine laborer in the competitive field enrolled on the membership sheet, nothing could, in my opinion, gain and maintain for us “a fair day’s wage for a fair day’s labor” better than a well-regulated restrictive system among our miners, but in the present state of our organization for us to adopt a restrictive measure, allowing all the organization miners throughout the country working as they please, I fear it would do us but little if any good. Those who would be most benefited by us taking such action would be the un- organized miners from the increased amount of work they would receive. On account of this the general markets, in my opinion, would not be materially affected. What we want first is a complete and a well disciplined organization. This once secured “restriction” would work to perfection. Then we could recommend many things which would accomplish for our miners much good. In the meantime it is our duty to make our organization perfect, or as near perfect as possible. When this is accomp- lished we can apply “restriction” in the true and fullest sense of the word, either by reducing the number of days worked each week, or the number of hours w^orked each day, or both, as it might be deemed wise. Restriction, properly applied, is a sure method to improve our condition and secure for us better wages. In the meantime and until our organization is nearer perfect I think every miner and mine laborer, and working men everywhere, should make every effort in their power to reasonably restrict or prohibit, if necessaiy, immi- Ninth Annual Convention District 6 515 gration to this country for a long number of years; long enough, at least, to give our craft and the crafts of working- men generally throughout the country, time to get in a more healthy condition than they have been for years past. President Farms closed his report with the following statement : My relations with all officers and members of the organ- ization have been, and are now, the most friendly. I have, upon numerous occasions, received very valuable aid and as- sistance from them. I take this opportunity of returning my sincere thanks to all. Before closing I desire to say that I have at all times and under all circumstances aimed to do my duty as best I could, and as I have understood it in the interest of our miners, and now at the end of my term of office I beg leave to return to you with thanks the trust that you one year ago confided to my keeping, hoping that every word spoken and every action taken may l3ear the seal of your approval. Fraternally yours, W. E. Farms. Vice-President Haskins made a brief verbal report in which he said he was unable to perform greater work as vice-presi- dent. , secretary-treasurer’s report. Fellow Delegates — In submitting to you, and through you to the members of our organization a report of my services for the past year, I do so with a feeling of gratification that District 6 is able to meet in convention with such a large representation. When we adjourned at the last annual convention it was with some apprehension as to what the future had in store. We had at that time a membership of 6,900, divided among 67 local unions, and an indebtedness of $436.24, with little prospect of being able to increase our membership, owing to the feeling that prevailed among our craft that the organiza- tion was unable to do anything to benefit the miners of Ohio. All things considered, it was anything but a bright future that confronted the officials of the organization January 1, 1897. We are proud to be able to report a decided change for the better, as we have now sufficient funds with the receipts in hand to wipe out our indebtedness, and have a membership in good standing of 14,000, divided among 154 local unions in this state. I herewith submit a summary of the financial transactions of the organization during the term just closed. 516 United Mine Workers of America Receipts. Balance cash on hand December 25, 1896 $4.13 Receipts, term ending December 31, 1897 3,974.44 Total $3,978.57 Expenditures. M. D. Ratchford, balance due $144.69 T. W. Davis, balance on accoimt 71.66 W. E. Farms, salary 720.00 W. E. Farms, expenses, 91/2 months 558.70 W. H. Haskins, salary 600.00 W. H. Haskins, expenses 103.25 T. L. Lewis, balance due 92.80 T. L. Lewis, salary 752.20 T. L. Lewis, expenses 154.70 C. H. Smith, expenses. Board Member 31.95 James McKee, expenses. Board Member 29.15 H. A. Banning, expenses. Board Member 23.88 J. H. Barnes, expenses. Board Member 33.85 S. H. Wilson, expenses. Board Member 31.30 R. A. Pollock, expenses. Board Member 34.70 Wm. H. Werker, expenses, Board Member 8.20 I. N. Coleman, auditor 20.05 L. D. Devore, auditor 22.00 N. P. Curran, auditor 20.50 Geo. Schackert, delegate-at-large 25.95 J. J. Mossop, service 7.50 James M. Stewart, service I 3.00 Richard Neason, service 6.00 Joseph Sanderson 10.00 W. C. Pearce, dues refimded 2.66 Rent for halls, offices and fuel 106.30 Printing 55.35 Supplies 9.95 Postage, telegrams, etc. 135.23 Total $3,978.57 Relief Fund. Balance on hand December 31, 1896 $267.27 Received of Local Union No. 379 24.00 Received of Local Union No. 7 20.43 Received of Local Union No. 857 10.00 Received of Local Union No. 377 30.00 Received of Local Union No. 379 22.00 Received of Local Union No. 203 10.00 Received of Local Union No. 359 53.00 Received of Local Union No. 13 10.00 Total $446.70 Paid to Wm. Phelps for Wellston miners $75.00 Refunded to Local Union No. 385 by order convention 52.90 Refunded to Local Union No. 377 by order convention 55.00 Ninth Annual Convention District 6 517 Refunded to Local Union No. 971 by order convention 108.40 Balance cash on hand 155.40 Total $446.70 Trusting and believing that the deliberations of this con- vention will be productive of much good to our craft, and thanking my official associates and the miners generally for their uniform kindness toward me, I am, fraternally yours, T. L. Lewis. Secretary Lewis suggested that the auditing committee make its report before the election of officers takes place. Motion, That the order of business be suspended and the auditing committee make its report. Carried. Report of auditing committee: “We, your auditing committee, examined the books and all bills and found them properly itemized and all accounts in good shape.’^ Signed by committee. Motion, That report of auditing committee be accepted. Carried. Election of officers : President appointed W. H. Werker and S. R. Helm tellers. Committee on credentials made a further report which was adopted. Officers elected: William E. Farms, president; vice-presi- dent, W. H. Haskins ; secretary-treasurer, T. L. Lewis. Secretary Lewis being called upon for a few remarks, re- sponded briefly, expressing his appreciation of the honor con- ferred and said that he would in the future as in the past strive to do his duty. Convention adjourned. FRIDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by President Farms at 8:30 a. m. Auditors elected : I. N. Coleman, C. L. Kimes, John H. Barnes. Executive board members : Sub-district No. 1, R. J. Jones, Orbiston; Sub-district No. 2, S. H. Wilson, Jackson; Sub-dis- trict No. 3, P. J. Gorman, North Lawrence ; Sub-district No. 4, Jacob Ashman, East Palestine; Sub-district No. 5, William H. 518 United Mine Workers of America Werker, Mineral Point; Sub-district No. 6, John Hood, Byes- ville. Motion that the convention ratify the election of executive board made by the various sub-districts. Carried. On roll call for an expression of vie'ws as to the feeling of their constituents on the questions of machine mining rates, differentials between Ohio and the Pittsburg district and an advance on mining rates, the majority of delegates were either instructed to ask for an advance or given discretionary power to act as their best judgment dictated. Resolutions were introduced and acted upon, changing the statute law in Ohio to reduce the distance between break- throughs from 60 to 40 feet, favoring the suspension of any mine where the operator has broken any part of the scale after it has been signed, until the officers have had time to investigate. That no outside day laborer should do work detrimental to the miners, and vice versa, and that all or- dained ministers of the gospel be carried free of all assess- ments and dues. Meeting adjourned. FRIDAY AFTERNOON. At the afternoon session numerous grievances were pre- sented by the grievance committee owing to the violation of agreements entered into in Sub-district No. 1, where it had been jointly agreed that two machine men should have two rooms, and on the docking system as practiced in the Sunday Creek valley. Motion, The regular order of business be suspended to hear from National President Ratchford. Carried. President Ratchford began his address by complimenting the Ohio miners, and predicted the largest assemblage of miners to meet next week that have yet assembled anywhere in the United States. He then briefly reviewed the history of the organization during the last year, hurriedly sketching the events as they happened, explaining one action after another, and promising a more detailed statement to the national con- vention next week, which, of course, will appear in the Journal so that the membership will have an opportunity to become familiar with all phases of the question. Ninth National Annual Convention 519 President Ratchford closed with advising the miners to remain firm to their trade organization, and predicted, if they did so, a more prosperous era for all concerned. Secretary Pearce was called upon and spoke briefly, con- trasting the conditions of some years ago with the recent past and explained what in his judgment should be the policy of the membership towards the organization at all times, saying that it was a conceded fact that nothing had been obtained but by organization. Convention adjourned. SATURDAY MORNING. After the convention had been called to order by Presi- dent Farms, questions were discussed and resolutions passed on day wages, the enactment of a law providing for the weigh- ing of coal before being screened ; an advance on mining rates, on checking off dues and amending the constitution; an ex- pression of thanks to all that had contributed to the support of Ohio miners; and the convention adjourned sine die. W. E. Farms, President. T. L. Lewis, Secretary. NINTH NATIONAL ANNUAL CONVENTION. Columbus, Ohio, January 11, 1898. The opening session of the ninth annual convention of the United Mine Workers of America was rapped to order promptly at 10 o’clock by President Ratchford, while Secre- tary Pearce was at his desk. After order had been obtained and a few preliminary remarks were made, the president read the call for the convention. Adjourned for dinner. AFTERNOON SESSION. Ratchford and Pearce in their respective positions. The report of the credential committee being called for, it was read. Motion, That report of committee be adopted so far as read with necessary corrections. Adopted. Delegates requested that, inasmuch as we were still wait- ing for the credentials committee report, the following 520 United Mine Workers of ‘America be requested to address the convention : P. McBryde, Cameron Miller, George Harris, Chris Evans and John Fahy. They all complied and made remarks complimenting the or- ganization both local and national, after which Mr. Henry Fisher of the National Tobacco Workers’ Union, was intro- duced and spoke briefly of their struggle with the tobacco trust, who are trying to monopolize the tobacco business of the country to the detriment of organized labor. He flnished by requesting the mine workers to patronize tobaccos bearing the union label. President Ratchford announced the following committees : Credentials — Edward McKay, Pennsylvania; W. C. Scott, Ohio ; P. J. Keenan, Illinois. Order of Business — H. Stephenson, West Virginia; G. Sav- age, Ohio ; Alex Ferguson, Indiana. Distribution — Thomas Burke, Illinois; S. C. Harless, West Virginia; Daniel Jones, Pennsylvania. Officers’ Reports — David Wilson, Ohio; Evan Davis, Indi- ana; P. J. Keenan, Illinois; Thomas Cole, Ohio; John Fahy, Pennsylvania. Resolutions — J. H. Kennedy, Indiana; John Mitchell, Illi- nois; William H. Haskins, Ohio; P. McGowan, Pennsylvania; M. V. White, West Virginia. Constitution — Chris Evans, Ohio; Samuel Anderson, Indi- ana; W. D. Ryan, Illinois; William Warner, Pennsylvania; W. Taylor, West Virginia. Scale — W. G. Knight, Indiana ; J. M. Hunter, Illinois ; T. L. Lewis, Ohio; P. Dolan, Pennsylvania; H. Stephenson, West Virginia; Warren Wilson, Pennsylvania; Geo. Schackert, Ohio; John Morgan, Indiana (block coal district) ; Eli Mott, Indiana (bituminous district) ; John Green, Illinois; Frank McDonald, West Virginia. Grievances — George Harris, Pennsylvania; John H. Barnes, Ohio; Pat. Maughan, Indiana; William Scaife, Illi- nois; R. A. Kramer, West Virginia. The special committee who w^ere instructed to see about another hall, reported that they had been to see the city authorities and had secured the use of the city hall for the balance of the week without cost. The credential committee Ninth National Annual Convention 521 then made their report, after which the convention adjourned to meet in the city hall on Wednesday morning. WEDNESDAY MORNING. Convention called to order. At 9 a. m., city hall. President Ratchford in the chair. Secretary Pearce at the desk. Motion, That the report of committee on credentials be received and committee continued. Adopted. Secretary Pearce, at this point, read the minutes of the previous day’s session, and the necessary corrections being made, they were adopted. Report of the committee on rules and order of business was as follows : We, your committee on rules and order of business, re- spectfully submit the following to the consideration of the convention : 1. The convention shall be called to order at 9 a. m. and will adjourn at 12 m., reconvene at 1 :30 p. m., and adjourn at 5 p. m. 2. No member of the convention shall speak more than once on the same question until all who desire to speak shall be heard. Speeches shall be limited to five minutes, and no one shall be allowed the floor more than twice, except by con- sent of the majority. 3. The roll of delegates shall not be called on any question except by the request of ten or more delegates. 4. Report of committee on credentials. 5. Report of officers. 6. Election of officers. 7. Report of auditing committee. 8. Report of committee on grievances. 9. Report of committee on officers’ reports. 10. Report of committee on constitution. 11. Report of committee on resolutions. 12. Miscellaneous business. Respectfully submitted, H. Stephenson, G. Savage, Alexander Ferguson, Committee. 522 United Mine Workers of America Motion, That the rules be suspended and we hear the re- port of officers. Adopted. President Ratchford then called W. G. Knight, of Indiana, to the chair and proceeded to read his address. PRESIDENT RATCHFORD’S ADDRESS IN PART. Columbus, 0., Jan. 11, 1898. To the Delegates of the Ninth Annual Convention, United Mine Workers of America. Comrades and Fellow Workers : As executive officer of the United Mine Workers of Amer- ica, I deem it both a duty and pleasure to report to this our ninth annual convention, a resume of the work for the past year. A duty because of the requirements of my position and of the custom so well established ; a pleasure because our trade history shines brilliantly with the victories and achievements of 1897, which, I am glad to say, enables me to report the greatest progress ever made during our organized existence. Before doing so, however, it is but proper that your earnest attention should be called to the very great importance of this convention. For years and even for generations past the Mine Workers of this country have held many large and important gather- ings. The brain and brawn of our fellow-workers have oft combined to wrestle with the vexed problems of a cruel in- dustrial system, but never in the history of our trade was there a gathering of representative men equal in numbers and intelligence, or with a greater constituency behind them. Never before were the questions with which you will have to deal of greater moment, greater importance, than those of today. With a full realization of this fact indelibly stamped upon your mind, I feel safe in resting the destinies of the Mine Workers in your hands, feeling assured that their best interests will be guarded and protected, and that you are still mindful of the achievements of the past year notwith- standing that the wrongs of labor yet remain to be righted; that the cruelties and fallacies of the age, to which the con- dition of the workers bear testimony, must be eradicated, and that labor must apply the remedy or suffer the cruelties to exist. In this I know you will guard against two dangerous extremes, both of which are equally inimical to your best in- terests. Recent victories should not inspire false hopes which may lead to the making of extravagant demands that cannot be gained. Nor must the defeats and disasters of past years Ninth National Annual Convention 523 check or deter you from demanding in reason that which you so fully and justly deserve. ORGANIZATION ONE YEAR AGO. At our last annual convention, when myself and colleagues, whom you had chosen, were charged with the important work devolving upon us, we found an organization that was but a mere shadow; its membership was smaller, perhaps, than at any time in its existence, and its treasury almost hopelessly in debt. Wages were below the living point, and the condi- tions of employment were practically named by the employ- ers. In fact, our helplessness seemed so apparent that the theorists and faddists in our own trade exclaimed: “I told you so,” “Trades unions are no good,” and the hostile operator feeling that his dreams and ambitions were more than real- ized, hailed the news of our dissolution with pleasure, silently exulting in the hope that dissolution meant eternal death, and the realization of his dreams and ambitions, the oppression of the working poor. Under such circumstances you can appreciate the difficul- ties besetting our pathway. The ills of the trade could not be cured by argument alone. Facts, without force, have never righted a single wrong, and never will until the hearts of men are open to conviction. Convention Resolved for Advance. One year ago, in regular annual session, you resolved for an advance in wages of 15 per cent for pick mining, over the prices then ruling in the Pittsburg district; and also an ad- vance for machine mining largely in excess of this amount, with a proportionate increase for pick and machine in all other districts of the central competitive coal field. The time to enforce such demands, in your judgment, was then unseasonable, trade conditions were extremely dull and a strike would prove disastrous. You, therefore, after due con- sideration, rested your claims in the hands of your executive board and district presidents, with orders that were clear and distinct, to execute and enforce the same when the opportune moment arrived. Such action had not long been taken when prices began to fall, the employers acting upon the theory, that if the time was unseasonable for the miners to enforce an advance, it was also unseasonable to resist a reduction. Prompted by the in- human motive, warfare, local in its character, but as surely general in its effects, was inaugrated against mining prices, t until the rate in the Pittsburg district, which district has been, and is yet, the base of our trouble, fell from 60 to 47 524 United Mine Workers of America cents, though the rate generally prevailing was 54 cents per ton. Meanwhile our position as to prices remained un- changed. Our demand, as stated, was for 15 per cent, based on Pittsburg district, or 9 cents per ton over January prices. It was now, by reason of the reduction, for 27 7-9 per cent, or 15 cents per ton over existing prices, while the advance ulti- mately gained was a fraction more than 20 1-3 per cent, or nearly 51/2 per cent more than our original demand, while in other districts the percentage of advance was much larger owing to the variation in prices. Conditions in the various districts are best described in the following circular letter to the members of the national executive board and district presidents under date of June 7 ; after it had been demonstrated beyond doubt that no ad- vance could be gained by conciliation or other conservative methods, and that there was nothing to choose from but star- vation and degradation, or the horrors and dangers of the strike. On June 7, 1897, President Ratchford issued a circular in which he explained, in full, the reasons for failure to secure increased rates for mining, quoting the resolutions referred to the miners, that were adopted at the late convention. The prices acted upon follow : The price per ton for pick mining shall be 69 cents in Pennsylvania, 60 cents in Hocking Valley, 60 cents in Indiana, 55 cents in the Grape Creek district, and the mining rate of 1894 for the balance of Illinois. Price per ton for loading, drilling and shooting after ma- chines, in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Illinois, three-fifths of the pick mining rate; and for Indiana, four-fifths; prices for all other machine work shall advance in proportion. The time when the scale shall go into effect to be left with the national executive board and district presidents. The president’s report further stated that at a meeting held at national headquarters, June 26-27, after a full and careful consideration of all questions involved, it was declared that the strike should take effect on the morning of July 4, 1897. After depicting the horrors of deprivation, camping by the wayside without food or shelter, under the surveillance of armed deputies, and innocent children asking for bread, the president commended the noble work of the women to whom President Ratchford’s Address 525 he said the success of the strike was due in no small measure. He also commended the miners for having conducted the strike without destroying human life and property ; for twelve weeks three-quarters of a million souls had struck and starved, but stood for law and order to the end. President Ratchford called special attention to the invalu- able assistance given by organized labor and its friends every- where, and particularly by the American Federation of Labor and affiliated bodies, stating that President Gompers, the ex- ecutive council, as well as the executives of the various national and international unions, were untiring in their efforts, cheerfully contributed time and money, without which we were surely doomed to degradation and defeat. On the settlement of the strike, he said, during the heat of the battle, the employers had made statements through the public press that he had declined arbitration. This charge he branded as false, but rejected the basis and principles upon which arbitration was offered. On September 2, there was a meeting of the National Ex- ecutive Board and district presidents with the Pittsburg op- erators, when it was unanimously decided to recommend the acceptance of the highest rate obtainable, which was 65 cents per ton based upon thin vein of the Pittsburg district. At a convention held later, of organized and unorganized miners, there was a difference of views expressed at the set- tlement made, some taking the position that better conditions could have been secured by an extension of the strike a few days longer, while others characterized the settlement as a district affair and said that it would leave everybody in the cold excepting the Pittsburg miners. Concluding his remarks on the strike and its adjustment. President Ratchford said: “Time is a good vindicator of many things, but there is noth- ing that has been more fully and fairly proven by time than the wisdom of your officers’ advice on September last. From east to west, and north to south, the miners have stamped it with the seal of approval, which is the greatest and surest in- dorsement that our actions could possibly receive.” Speaking of the joint interstate convention, he said : “One of the greatest achievements of the past year is an agreement 526 United Mine Workers of America recently made between your executive board and district pres- idents and the operators of the competitive coal fields provid- ing for a joint convention in the city of Chicago on January 17, for the purpose of formulating a wage scale and the mak- ing of an annual contract by mutual agreement.” On advising the erection of a monument to John Kane, late vice president, after eulogizing in most endearing terms the lovable character he possessed, said “I would therefore recommend that you appropriate sufficient money from the treasury of our organization to build a monument to his mem- ory, and that you place the matter in charge of a special com- mittee, who will have it properly inscribed and erected with- out delay.” On an advance in mining rates he said the market was in a healthy condition and a reasonable advance could be secured without the necessity of a strike if affairs are properly handled, and that there never was a time when crj^stalized public opinion so fully indorsed the justice of our claims, or when employers were so ready to concede the eight hour workday. On legislation, he said more mining legislation had been secured than in any former year. This, he said, was especially true of Illinois and Pennsylvania. He advised against legisla- tion that deprives us of our natural rights such as that which sustains the infamous un-American injunction which forbids working men from joining in peaceable assemblage. The change of headquarters, he thought, all things consid- ered, was justified. He favored the support of union labor and the purchasing of all goods made by union men and women. The defense fund, he said, if properly cared for and handled, will be the greatest safe-guard against strikes, local and general. He said the Journal is now an inseparable part of our or- ganization and its influence should be further extended. On the dissolution of “Independent Order of National Trades Assembly No. 135, Knights of Labor,” he said he knew the convention would exercise the greatest caution against en- tangling alliances, and at the same time go as far as consist- ency and trade interests will allow. President Ratchford’s Address 527 On Board Meetings and Organizers, he said : During the year four meetings of the executive board and district presidents were held in addition to those that followed our conventions in January and September. All members were in the field during the strike, and since that time those of them who were free to give the national organization their services were retained and are still in the field. Some of them, as you are aware, are serving in a double capacity as presi- dent or secretary of their respective districts, and therefore cannot do field work excepting in an emergency. At the close of the general strike three organizers, Messrs. Hunter, Keenan and Mitchell, were placed in the Illinois field by the executive board to assist the officers of that district in their home fight. Mr. Hunter soon after was elected to the presidency of his state. Mr. Keenan retired from service when the home strike was won, and Mr. Mitchell retained in the | field, where he is still serving. . Chris Evans and W. H. Tur- ner, of Ohio, and Geo. Harris, of Pennsylvania, were in the field during the strike, and, like the others, did excellent work. Mr. Evans and Mr. Harris have been commissioned as organi- zers and are also retained. In concluding my report, which is already too lengthy, ow- ing to the many different subjects touched upon, I desire to briefly express my most sincere thanks to you, and through you, to the miners everywhere for the hearty co-operation given, and for the courtesy with which I have been received at all times, and in all places which I have visited. For my colleagues on the executive board, as well as the district presidents and others whom I have met, I have but the warmest feeling of respect and admiration. They were ever ready to respond to the call of duty, always diligent and faithful in their work, and like myself, you may be assured that whatever walk of life they may hereafter be placed in, they will always remember you in kindness, and carry with them to the end of life memories of the struggle that tried men’s souls — the miners’ strike of 1897. To my associates in the office, and especially to our Secre- tary-Treasurer and the editor of our Journal, I am greatly in- debted for their valuable advice and assistance, from the be- ginning of our official relations to the present day. I have found them prompt and efficient in their duty, and ever ready in season and out of season to promote and advance the best interests of the mine workers of the country in any position wherever placed. Closing, I respectfully request the assistance of all dele- gates present in conducting the affairs of this great conven- tion, assuring you that I will do my duty with fairness and 528 United Mine Workers of America impartiality, as I see and understand it. Would also earnestly request your loyal and hearty support for the officers-elect, whosoever they may be. With this I bespeak for our noble or- ganization before the next year expires, greater strength, power and influence than any other trades union in America. Respectfully submitted, M. D. Ratchford, President, U. M. W. of A. After the reading was finished the hour of adjournment having arrived, the convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention was called to order at 1 :30 p. m. by President Ratchford, who afterwards requested Mr. W. G. Knight to take the chair. Secretary Pearce then read his annual report. THE SECRETARY’S REPORT. The report of Secretary W. C. Pearce contained a lengthy resume of the work done and stated that one year ago our organization numbered less than 11,000. Today, he said, it is safe to say we have increased threefold, and commended highly the assistance given by other trades during the year that had brought about such beneficial results. His financial statement covered every detail in complete form, with the following recapitulation of receipts and expenses for the year : RECAPITULATION. Income Cash on hand January 1, 1897 $582.93 Tax i 11,653.30 Supplies 1,985.27 Journal .- 1,238.27 Aid and levy 23,015.18 Miscellaneous 690.95 Total $39,165.90 N Expenditures Salaries and expenses $16,473.42 Supplies 3,845.12 Office expenses 742.63 Postage, mailing, telegraph and expressage 1,268.13 Miscellaneous (field work, etc., time of strike) 6,124.45 Total $28,353.72 Ninth National Annual Convention 529 Cash on hand January 1, 1898 10,812.18 Total - 139,165.90 Respectfully submitted, W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer, United Mine Workers of America. The minutes of the morning session were read and ap- proved. T. L. Lewis made a concise report of the American Federa- tion of Labor convention, held at Nashville, Tenn., on Decem- ber 14, 1897, reviewing the legislation enacted by that conven- tion, after which the committee on distribution distributed the officers’ report. The following is the revised and corrected report of the credentials committee: Illinois — Thomas Burke, James Beattie, W. D. Ryan, John Green, Joseph Manuel, James A. Connery, John Mitchell, M. B. Hearth, Henry Cartright, George Struman, Harry Don- nelly, John Felgenhamer, W. T. Morris, John Belger, Charles Bracewell, James S. Richards, James Rourk, John M. Hunter, Cameron Miller, William Scaife, J. W. Cooper, James Court- ney, William Topham, George Cravens, James Hickey, Patrick Higgins, W. R. Russell, Sam Dugan, John Welsh, George Scratch er, P. J. Keenan, James Richards, Thomas Galaher, George Horn, Emil Breckner, John Stanley, A1 Boston, W. M. Jamison, William Gardner, E. Lafferty, D. Williams, Alex. Suttey, Jacob Stanley, D. F. Cameron, 0. B. Shelby, James Cartright, M. B. Hearth. Ohio — T. L. Lewis, J. J. Mossop, D. R. Lewis, James Mc- Kee, W. C. Scott, Val Cox, W. H. Worker, John Werdle, W. E. Farms, Thomas Cole, J. H. Barnes, William Morgan, William Simons, T. R. Jones, J. Tetlow, P. J. Gorman, Marian Hull, David Wilson, Stephen Kennedy, Jacob Collins, C. L. Kimes, Z. Emory, W. C. Pearce, Dan Wallace, Cameron Miller, Owen F. Murray, George Hamilton, W. J. Corpman, W. P. H. Friday, Conrad Wein, Joseph Smart, I. N. Coleman, John Wardle, George Cecil, Morris Henshaw, Frank Christian, J. J. Abies, Charles Alton, John Whalen, M. G. Flinn, J. W. Humphrey, M. D. Ratchford, T. W. Davis, James Donnahue, R. M. Mason, 530 United Mine Workers of America Guard Cady, Frank Christian, Ed Graham, John Taylor, Frank Johnson, F. J. Minck, John Perkins, C. F. Fisher, Rich- ard Neason, Henry Charles, Henry Hutterman, Frank O’Don- nell, Fred Powell, G. Savage, John Oakley, Alex. Johnson, J. D. Gillilan, Ed Abraham, John Archibald, J. M. Stewart, Thomas Taylor, S. H. Wilson, William Haskins, John Rollins, John Jinkins, T. R. Jones, Jacob Ashman, Richard Fitzgerald, John Lambert, John Thomas. West Virginia — Henry Stephenson, S. C. Harless, Chris Evans, R. A. Kramer, F. T. Donald, William Warner, John W. Branham, J. J. Marona, W. Taylor, M. V. White, Fred Dil- cher, J. J. Abies, William Laftrich, R. B. Cobb, Thomas Boyce, T. J. Godfrey. Pennsylvania — Patrick McGowan, Thomas J. Boyle, Chris Evans, George Stanaway, Samuel Allen, Daniel Jones, Thomas Duffy, Patrick Dolan, William Warner, Martin Greeley, John Fahy, Warren Wilson, James Murray, Andrew Mattie, Wm. Grant, George Harris, T. W. Davis, Jerry Kerr, Thomas H. Kissop, Jr., James Best, John Dwire, Hugh Pollan, Hugh Forsyth, Pat McGowan, John Oates, Ed McKay, John Dolan, Henry Walker, John McGoldrick, James Buchan, John Kirk- patrick, Thomas Haggerty, Thomas Beatty, Robert McKenna, J. E. Russell, Andy Savage, Richard Gibbs, B. A. Graves. Indiana — G. W. Purcell, A. L. Padget, J. H. Kennedy, Evan Davis, Eli Mott, Emanuel Dixon, Alex. Ferguson, A. J. Max- well, Mark Roberts, W. H. McGrew, John H. Morgan, Ed- ward McKay, Fred Ridenour, Patrick Maughan, Sam Wall, W. G. Knight, George Chesterfield, Cameron Miller, David Harris, John Evans, John H. Morgan, Allan Walker, Barney Nevin, Sam Anderson, James Cantwell, John Muchet, R. L. Davis, W. C. Pearce, Henry Bradley. The next order of business being the election of officers, the chair appointed J. H. Barnes, of Ohio, and P. J. Keenan, of Illinois, tellers. E. C. Hill and P. McBryde’s names were withdrawn. The ballot being taken, resulted as follows: Ratchford, 413 votes; Joseph Evans, 16. Three votes were absent and two declined to vote. Motion, That the election of president be made unanimous. Adopted. Ninth National Annual Convention 531 Before the vote for president was taken Delegate Evans was called to the chair and announced, after the vote had been counted, that Ratchford, having received a majority of votes cast, was elected president for the ensuing year. Ratchford being called for responded briefly as follows : It is not necessary for me to express my appreciation of your action in giving me a unanimous re-election as president of your organization. It means far more than re-election; it means a hearty indorsement of our policy during the past term and a hearty rebuke to the men who endeavored to de- stroy your confidence in your officers and in that way accom- plish their ends. The election of a United States Senator even, by a close vote, may be an honor after a fight that lasted for months, but to me it is a higher honor to be chosen as your national president by the unanimous vote of the mine workers of the country without an effort or a fight. When you first elected me president, over a year ago, we had a weak organization and a small group of delegates from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. Today we have organizations from the anthracite coal regions on the east to the State of Wyoming on the west, and from the Klondike to Alabama. I promised you then that if you gave me support I would give you as aggressive an administration as you de- sired. Have I kept my promise ? Your action of today is em- phatic, and has but one meaning. I again repeat that promise, and declare here and now, that we will continue that aggres- sive policy in proportion to our numbers, our strength and ability as an organization, which alone makes it possible. I take occasion at this time to call your attention to the press reports of the past week regarding my appointment to a federal position. Such reports are wholly unfounded. I am not now and never have been a candidate for any political office, elective or appointive, and will go further and say that I am not open for engagements ; that my services are not for sale while serving the miners, at least not until my term of office expires. I regard it as a crime for any delegate to come here and take part in the work of this convention and after its adjournment desert the organization. If it be such, is it not a crime for your officers to desert you? Yes, and you need not fear it so far as I am concerned. At this point, the following telegram was read by the chair ; 532 United Mine Workers op America Chicago, 111., January 12, 1898. M. Ratchford, United Mine Workers’ Convention: Cigarmakers’ International Union sends fraternal greet- ing and assurance of eternal thankfulness for your splendid action in defense of our blue label and rebuke to those who ignore this emblem of unionism and fair wages. May success and eternal prosperity be ever with the miners’ organization. G. W. Perkins, President. Motion, That the telegram be accepted and the secre- tary be instructed to make suitable reply. Adopted. Secretary replied as follows : G. W. Perkins, President International Cigarmakers’ Organi- zation, Chicago, 111. : United Mine Workers of America return thanks for kind remembrances and return fraternal greetings to you and through you to the cigarmakers everywhere. W. C. PEARCE. After which the chair declared the election of a vice-presi- dent in order. ' The following declined : Hunter, Fahy, Dilcher, McKay, Ryan and McKee. The secretary announced, by request, that the candidates for vice-president were located as follows : P. Dolan, Pennsyl- vania; John Mitchell, Illinois; J. G. Robinson, West Virginia; W. H. Crawford, Ohio. Before the roll was called a question was raised that, as the time for adjournment was near, the election be deferred until tomorrow morning and the time be spent in discussing the advisability of purchasing the portrait of the late Vice- President Kane, to be kept in the national office and to be the property of the national organization. On motion, The following were appointed to negotiate for the purchase of a picture of the late Brother Kane: Commit- tee — T. L. Lewis, John M. Hunter, Cameron Miller. A representative of the Baker Art Gallery made a state- ment pertaining to a group picture of the convention. Motion, That the delegates assemble in the State House yard at the noon hour on Thursday for that purpose. On motion, adjourned. Ninth National Annual Convention 533 THURSDAY MORNING. Meeting called to order. Ratchford in the chair, Pearce at the desk. President Ratchford then announced the regular order of business and called Delegate Evans to the chair, who an- nounced the election of a vice president. The chair announced that the secretary was prepared to report the result of the ballot, which was as follows: Total votes, 431; necessary for choice, 216; Mitchell received 215, Dolan 195, Crawford 13, Robinson 8. The chair announced that no candidate had received a ma- jority vote and ordered that the lowest be dropped and another ballot taken. After which the chair called upon the secretary to an- nounce the result of the vote, which was as follows, out of a total of 437 votes cast: Mitchell received 228, Dolan 196, and Crawford 7. The chair then declared that John Mitchell, having re- ceived a majority of the votes cast, was elected vice-president for the ensuing term. Mitchell, being called upon, responded briefly, thanking the delegates for the honor conferred and pledging his best efforts for the organization, and trusted that when we meet next year no one will have cause to regret his election. Adjourned for dinner. AFTERNOON SESSION. Chris Evans in the chair. First order of business election of secretary for the ensu- ing year. W. D. Ryan, of Illinois, withdrew his name from, the list of candidates. To facilitate business, it was moved that the rules be suspended and that all those who are in- structed to vote for Winning or Cornwell be recorded and the balance of votes be accredited to Secretary Pearce. Illinois, no opposition to Pearce; Indiana, no opposition; Ohio, H. Charles and J. Taylor for Winning. Motion, by Henry Charles, seconded by J. S. Taylor, Ohio, that the election of Secretary Pearce be made unanimous. Carried. 534 United Mine Workers of America Secretary Pearce, being called for, responded briefly as fol- lows: I can not find words at present to express my feelings on this occasion, and for this evidence of confidence and honor given by this unanimous vote for re-election as your secre- tary-treasurer. I have guarded the finances of our organiza- tion with as much care and caution as though it were my own. I expect to do the same in the future, as I have done in the past, always attending promptly to the duties of my office, and expect to leave our organization in better condition than I found it. Again I thank you, and through you the members of our craft everywhere for this unanimous indorsement. Ex-Secretary Patrick McBryde requested an opportunity to present a matter of much interest to the delegates assem- bled. He said that arrangements had been made to pay the last tribute of respect to the memory of the deceased brother and vice-president, John Kane, and requested that the dele- gates go in a body to attend a high mass at St. Patrick’s Church at 9 o’clock on Friday morning. On motion, the convention unanimously decided to comply with the request and go in a body to the church. Carried. The following additional tellers were appointed : Pat Dolan, Allan Walker and R. Taylor. Motion, That each delegate be furnished with blank paper and hand in their votes to be recorded. Carried. After the vote had been taken and the tellers were count- ing it. President Ratchford announced that ex-president John McBride was present and would address the convention. Ex-President McBride was received with a demonstration of welcome. He began his address by expressing his apprecia- tion of the courtesy extended and his pleasure thereat. He further expressed his pleasure at the evidence of unionism and unification exhibited by the craft in the large representa- tion present. He trusted that the good sense of the craft would be exerted to prevent any discord which would lead to disunion in the future, from being considered or entertained as the best results can be obtained from a complete organiza- tion and that divisions in our ranks were weakness and non- efficiency and that the person or persons who sowed the seeds of discord in our ranks should be regarded as an enemy to our Ninth National Annual Convention 535 cause. He noted the changed conditions prevailing at the present time to those of fifteen and twenty years ago, and said that we needed men of progressive minds to keep pace with the times, and cited that the Hocking Valley was then mining coal by hand and the shipments were about 2,000,000 tons, while at present the mining is largely done by the machine and the shipment is more than doubled ; and by reason of this and other facts, conditions are so changed that what was prac- ticable years ago is at present impracticable, and for these reasons he said that changed conditions must be reckoned with, and that our ability to cope with these conditions was a recognition of them as they existed, and an organization suffi- ciently strong to cope with them; an organization not for an hour or a day, but for all time; and our best policy would be to keep our organization sufficiently strong to meet questions confronting us, one after the other, and overcome them. “One year of peace,” he said, “will enable you to build up your organization larger than it is at present, numerous as it is, and for which he compliments us.” After McBride had finished, the Hon. David Ross, of Illi- nois, secretary of the Bureau of Statistics, who was present and who is an ex-miner and is well known to the mining craft, and who formerly took an active part in all matters pertain- ing to mine workers and their organization, was called for and responded, saying that he was pleased to be present at this time and was gratified at the courtesy extended him, as for the last six years he had been deprived of as close associa- tion with his fellow craftsmen as he formerly enjoyed. But he was pleased at seeing such a large representation of intelli- gent men present, and he felt that the interest of the craft was safe in their keeping. He then contrasted the past with the present and, like the former speaker, noted the changed con- dition of affairs and the need for a good organization to grap- ple with them. He concluded his eloquent and forcible re- marks by advising the mine workers to studiously avoid all questions that would have a tendency to create discord in their ranks; that a failure to guard against such had in the past caused some organizations to go to wreck. He ad- vised that politics be kept out of the association and advised 536 United Mine Workers of America that measures purely political be let alone; though advising that our craftsmen study all political questions so as to better understand the questions of the day and the best way to solve them. The Tellers announced that Powell, of Ohio, and Dixon, of Indiana, had received the highest vote and the chair declared them elected national auditors for the next year. Nominations for delegates and alternates to the American Federation of Labor were then called for. Motion, That we honor President Ratchford with unani- mous election as one of the delegates. Adopted by a rising vote. Other delegates elected follow: T. L. Lewis, John Fahy, John Mitchell. Alternates: Bartoe, Farms, Warner and Mc- Bride. The convention then adjourned. FRIDAY MORNING SESSION. Delegates assembled at 8 o’clock, Friday, January 14, 1898, and attended church at St. Patrick’s in a body, as per resolu- tion of yesterday. Returned to the hall and at 10 o’clock Vice- President Mitchell called the convention to order. Result of first ballot for board members was announced as follows: Dilcher, Stephenson and Fahy having a majority vote were declared elected. Roll call on second ballot for balance of board members. The following were the candidates : Scott, Kennedy, McKay, Stanley, Helm, Murray, Davis, Knight, Webb, Scaife, Ryan, Sullivan and Llewellyn. Before adjourning announcements were made regarding hotel accommodations at Chicago. Adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Ratchford in the chair. Announcement of vote for balance of board members. Kennedy, McKay and Ryan having a majority vote were de- clared elected. Report of auditing committee : Ninth National Annual Convention 537 To the United Mine Workers of America in Convention As- sembled : Gentlemen — We, your auditors, • elected by you to examine the books of Secretary-Treasurer W. C. Pearce, beg leave to say that we have attended to our duty and find them correct, as follows: Balance January 1, 1898 $582.93 Tax receipts during 1897 11,653.30 Receipts for supplies 1,985.27 Subscription to Journal 1,238.27 Aid and assessment 23,015.18 Miscellaneous receipts 690.95 Total $39,165.90 Salaries and expenses $16,473.42 Supplies 3,845.12 Office expenses 742.63 Postage, telegrams, etc. , 1,168.10 Miscellaneous : 6,124.45 Total $28,353.72 Balance on hand $10,812.18 We desire to express our pleasure and compliment Brother Pearce upon the neat and systematic manner in which the accounts have been kept, and may say that it has been of ma- terial aid to your committee in their labors. Thomas H. Kirsop, WiLLIARD BARTOE, Committee. Columbus, 0., January 10, 1898. To Whom It May Concern: At the request of Mr. W. C. Pearce, this is given to certify that on thfe 30th day of December, 1897, at the close of busi- ness, our books showed that he had on deposit in this bank, the sum of ten thousand eight hundred and twelve dollars and eighteen cents. Respectfully, F. W. Prentiss, ($10,812.18.) Vice-President. The report of the auditing committee was accepted. Report of Committee on Resolutions — Motion to accept the committee’s report and act upon it seriatim. 1. Resolved, That all coal cut by machines be cut by the ton and not by the day, unless in deficient places, and in no case shall such deficient places be cut for less than the scale 538 United Mine Workers of America agreed to between the miners and operators, and in no case shall pillars be termed deficient. This resolution includes all states. Adopted. Committee — S. R. Helm, James Park and Geo. Shackert. Resolutions were introduced and acted upon condemning the action of W. H. Toler from West Virginia, for trying to disrupt the organization in that state, that organizers be sent into Alabama for the purpose of increasing the number of members and giving encouragement to the organized miners of Pratt City and Blocton ; that the convention place itself on record to support none but miners or sworn friends of the miners to represent them in the halls of State and National legislatures ; that the tobacco workers’ union label be indorsed. After which the convention adjourned. SATURDAY MORNING. Convention called to order with Vice-President Mitchell in the chair. A number of resolutions introduced were again taken up, among which was the advisability of purchasing union-made goods; the establishment of the postal savings bank system; having the constitution printed in several languages ; and the adoption of a resolution, That the national officers be in- structed to purchase and erect a monument to the memory of Vice President John Kane at a cost not to exceed $300.00. The committee on constitution in making their report, recommended that the constitution be changed to strike out any words that refer to anything other than the United Mine Workers of America, which was adopted, and the constitution in full as revised by the committee for the year 1898, follows : NATIONAL CONSTITUTION 1898. Article I — Name, Objects and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This organization shall be known as the United Mine workers of America. Sec. 2. The objects of this Union are to unite mine em- ployes and ameliorate their condition by methods of concilia- tion, arbitration or strikes. Sec. 3. This Union shall have jurisdiction over all its Local Unions, which shall be governed in all trade matters by this constitution. National Constitution for 1898 539 Article II — Officers and Their Duties. Section 1. The officers of this Union shall be one Presi- dent, one Vice-President, one Secretary-Treasurer and an Ex- ecutive Board of nine members, three of whom shall be the President, Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer and two Auditors, who shall be elected at each annual convention. The President, Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer, shall re- ceive a majority of all votes cast before they be declared elected. Sec. 2. The President shall preside at all general conven- tions of the Union; he shall sign all official documents, when satisfied of their correctness ; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, fill by appointment all vacancies occurring in the National offices, and in a like manner he is empowered to suspend or remove any National officer for insubordination or just and sufficient cause; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, appoint from time to time such organizers and workers as may be required ; he shall devote his time and attention to the interests of the Union, and exercise general supervision of its workings, either in the field or in the Na- tional office, as his judgment dictates or the exigencies of the case require. He shall semi-annually name the password for the use of Local Unions. Sec. 3. The Vice-President shall act as general organizer, and shall be under the direction of the President, and shall succeed that officer in case of death or removal from office. Sec. 4. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of and preserve all books, documents and effects of the National of- fice; shall record proceedings of all conventions and of the meetings of the Executive Board, and shall keep copies of im- portant letters sent out by him; he shall receive and receipt for all moneys, pay all current expenses ; he shall prepare and submit to the locals a quarterly report of all moneys received and disbursed and perform such other duties as may be as- signed him; he shall give a bond of $5,000 for the safe keep- ing of all moneys entrusted to him, but he shall not have more than $2,500 subject to his order at any one time. All other funds must be deposited by him, subject to the order of the Executive Board. He shall semi-annually send to all State and District Sec- retaries the Pass-Word, whose duties it shall be to transmit it to such Locals that may be in good standing in his state or district ; it shall be the duty of all parties receiving this Pass- Word in writing to destroy it at once and no one shall trans- mit it without the proper authority. Sec. 5. The Executive Board shall constitute a National Board of Arbitration and Conciliation; shall execute the or- 540 United Mine Workers of America ders of National Conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the workings of the Union. The Board shall be convened by the President or by the Secretary- Treasurer, at the request of three members of said Board. Article III. Section 1. The revenue of the National Union shall be de- rived from Local Unions, which shall pay direct to the Secre- tary-Treasurer ten (10) cents per month per member; frac- tional members shall pay in proportion. The Local Secretary shall fill out and forward to the National and District Secre- taries a monthly report of the members in good standing in the Local Union ; said report to be forwarded to the National and District Secretaries on or before the 25th of each month. Sec. 2. In filling out the monthly report, the Local Secre- tary shall report to the National office, on blanks furnished for that purpose, the amount of money paid and the number of members reported to the district, and to the district office the amount of money paid and the number of members re- ported to the National Secretary. Sec. 3. The National Convention shall be held annually on the second Monday in January, at such place as may be determined upon by the preceding convention. Special con- ventions shall be called by the President, when so instructed by the Executive Board or at the request of five different unions or divisions. Sec. 4. Representatives to the National Convention from affiliated districts, divisions or locals shall have one vote for 100 members or less, and an additional vote for each 100 mem- bers or majority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than five votes, and no person shall be eligible as representative, who is not, or has not been, a practical miner or mine laborer who has not been elected by a Local Union located in the district in which said delegate resides. Sec. 5. No Local Union shall be entitled to representation in the National Convention that is in arrears for dues or as- sessments for three (3) months preceding the month in which the National Convention is held, and who has not in every particular complied with the constitution of the district in which said Local Union may be located or which has less than 10 members, and any mine within the territory under the jurisdiction of the United Mine Workers, having been once organized for a period of three months, and allowing itself to become lapsed, defunct, or refusing to pay dues to the organi- zation, shall and must be in good standing for a period of six months previous to the meeting of the Annual Convention, be- fore said Local Union shall be entitled to representation in National Constitution for 1898 541 the annual or special conventions of the national or district organizations. All newly organized locals must be organized at least one month prior to the holding of the National Con- vention. Sec. 6. No locals shall be exempt from paying per capita tax unless they have been idle one month. In all cases where Local Unions desire exoneration from dues, same request shall be signed by the President, Secretary and Mine Committee. Article IV — Strikes. Section 1. When trouble of a local character arises be- tween members of any Local Union, and their employers, the officers of said locals shall endeavor to effect an amicable ad- justment, and failing in this they shall immediately notify the officers of the district to which the affected locals are attached, and said district officers shall immediately investigate the cause of complaint, and failing^ to effect a peaceful settlement upon a basis that would be equitable and just to aggrieved members, finding that a strike would best subserve the inter- ests of the locality affected, they may order the inauguration of a strike, but no local strike shall be legalized or supported by a district unless its inauguration was approved by the offi- cers of the district, or by the National Executive Board upon an appeal taken by the aggrieved members from the decision of the district offices ; any Local Union striking in violation of the above provisions shall not be sustained or recognized by national office or officers. Sec. 2. Before final action is taken by any district upon questions that directly or indirectly affect the interests of the mine workers of another district, or that require a strike to determine, the President and the Secretary of the aggrieved district shall jointly prepare, sign and forward to the Na- tional President a written statement setting forth the griev- ance complained of, the action contemplated by the district, together with the reasons therefor, and the National Presi- dent shall, within five days after the receipt of such statement, either approve or disapprove of the action contemplated by the aggrieved district, and such approval or disapproval, to- gether with the reasons therefor, shall be made in writing and a copy forwarded to the Secretary of the complaining district. Should the action contemplated by the aggrieved district re- ceive the approval of the National President, the district shall be free to act, but should the National President disapprove the action contemplated the district may appeal to the Na- tional Executive Board, which shall be convened to consider such appeal within five days after its receipt by the National Secretary; until the National President has approved, or the 542 United Mine Workers of America National Executive Board has sustained the appeal, no dis- trict shall be free to enter upon a strike unless it shall have been ordered by a National Convention. Article V- — Qualifications and Salary of Officers. Section 1. A member in good standing in the organiza- tion shall be eligible to hold office in the National Union, pro- vided he is not a salaried officer of a district at the same time, and has been a member of a Local Union for six months prior to his election. Sec. 2. President, $1,200; Vice-President, $900; Secre- tary-Treasurer, $1,000; salary of Executive Board, $2.50 per day and expenses, when employed by the President to work in the interest of the United Mine Workers. Article VI. Section 1. All nominations for National offices and dele- gates to the A. F. of L. shall be sent to the National Secretary not later than two months before the annual convention ; said nominations shall be compiled by him and sent out not later than two weeks prior to the convention, and no person shall be elected to any office unless his name has been sent to all locals as specified. The National Secretary shall not publish the name and address of any candidate without first obtaining his consent. Delegates shall come to the convention instructed to vote for candidates for the respective positions. Immediately after the organization of the convention each delegate shall be supplied with a ballot to vote for all officers. Delegates shall prepare said ballot by inserting the name of his respective candidates under the respective headings with delegates’ name and number of local that he represents, with his number of votes written on the back. He shall deposit said ballot with the tellers (who shall be appointed by the chair) within three hours after ballots have been distributed. The tellers shall deposit said ballot within a ballot box made for the purpose. No ballot shall be received after the polls have been declared closed, and the ballot box to be locked and sealed by the President in the presence of the delegates of the conven- tion until the tellers are ready to count said ballots. It shall be the duty of the tellers to count the ballots by reporting upon a returning sheet, w^hich the secretary shall have prepared. Said report shall become a part of the proceedings of the con- vention. Sec. 2. No person, a member of the organization, who holds a financial or clearance card, showing him to be a finan- cial member (and in good standing), shall be debarred or hindered from obtaining work on account of race, creed or National Constitution for 1898 543 nationality ; and a clearance card from any legalized or recog- nized labor organization, anywhere, known to be friendly to the U. M. W.’s of A. shall be accepted ; and any member leav- ing a Local Union, and desirous of becoming a member in any other L. U., must deposit a transfer card with Recording Sec- retary of the local in which he desires to be a member. Due cards or clearance cards shall not admit any person to mem- bership from one local of the U. M. W. of A. to another. And, to protect the membership of individuals who are unable to pay their dues because of no local existing where they reside, the National, District and Subdistrict Secretaries shall receive dues from them and issue to them the usual cards for the same. Sec. 3. Any Local Union, who shall wilfully violate the above, shall, if proven guilty, for the first offense be suspended from all rights and privileges for three months, and for the second offense, suspended for six months, or as long as it is deemed necessary by the National Executive Board. Sec. 4. That no charges shall be considered by any con- vention of the United Mine Workers unless such charges be preferred in writing to the Executive Board, who shall hear and determine, and report to the convention, their finding. Sec. 5. Delegates to the National Convention shall be paid railroad fare to and from the convention on the following basis: Delegates shall represent five locals, if said locals con- tain not more than 500 members. When there are 500 mem- bers in one local, or, in a less number than five locals such local shall be entitled to send a delegate. Locals isolated and who can not meet with other locals for the purpose of electing a delegate, shall be entitled to send a representative. The Ex- ecutive Board shall have power to levy the members to carry out the above provisions, provided said levy be necessary. Sec. 6. The National Officers shall have power to change boundaries and jurisdiction of districts as the conditions may require between conventions: provided, however, that they consult the district officers of the districts that such change of boundaries and jurisdiction may affect; and in no case shall any such change be made until affected local or locals shall have paid all tax and assessments due to the district to which it or they are attached. Sec. 7. Two auditors shall be elected annually to examine the books of the National Secretary quarterly and cause their report to be published in the United Mine Workers Journal, said auditors to hold no National or District offices. Sec. 8. The National Executive Board shall have power to order a general suspension at any time during the year that they deem it necessary. 544 United Mine Workers of America Sec. 9. Any member of the United Mine Workers accept- ing a position in or around the mines other than that of a miner or mine laborer, shall cease to be a member of the orga- nization while holding such position, this not to apply to co- operative companies receiving the indorsement of the Na- tional Executive Board. Chris Evans, William Warner, W. I. Taylor, W. D. Ryan, Constitution Committee. A resolution was adopted advising the national officers that the Journal be published in such languages as they deem proper, as well as the constitution and manuals. The committee on officers’ reports agreed with the sugges- tion of President Ratchford to appropriate money from the treasury to build a monument to the memory of Vice-Presi- dent John Kane, and that a committee of three be appointed, consisting of President, Vice-President and Secretary, to take charge of and see that the monument is properly erected and inscribed, and highly approved of his recommendation that the reduction of hours to eight per day be made the leading question after the scale of prices had been jointly agreed upon, all of which received the unanimous support of the delegates present. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order, Vice-President Mitchell pre- siding. On changing headquarters, nominations were made, in- cluding Chicago, Cleveland, Columbus and Toledo, Ohio; Ev- ansville and Indianapolis, Indiana. After two ballots had been taken Indianapolis received a majority of the votes cast and was declared the future headquarters for the National organization. The convention was almost a unit in the building up of a defense fund. The report of Secretary W. C. Pearce was highly com- mended and ordered to be made a part of the proceedings. Ninth National Annual Convention 545 The special committee appointed reported that the picture of John Kane could be made for $15 and the convention de- cided to make the purchase. Sub-district 6 of District No. 1, comprising the Hazleton and Panther Creek Valley territories of the anthracite region, was empowered to form a district, and the National Executive Board ordered to grant a seal and charter for the district. An appropriation of $200 was made to the stationary engi- neers and railroad employees of Great Britain, that were on strike. Resolutions of sympathy follow: Whereas, Mr. Edward Hartford, late delegate from the British Trades Council to the American Federation of Labor convention, at Nashville, Tenn., has been called away by an all-wise Providence from his family on his return to his native country, therefore be it Resolved, That we, the representatives of the United Mine Workers of America, extend our heartfelt sympathy to his sorrowing family and relatives, and that we in common with his many friends sincerely deplore his loss. Resolved, That a copy of the above resolutions be sent to his family, and also to the British Labor Congress, signed by our President and Secretary. Adopted. The resolution committee begs leave to submit the follow- ing report: The resolution committee has failed to agree on any form of a defense fund, and recommends the appointment of a special committee. Motion, That the recommendations of the committee be concurred in. Adopted. Motion, That the committee on resolutions draft rules and regulations pertaining to the defense fund, and the same to be presented to the delegates to the Chicago convention. Adopted. Nominations for the place of holding the next annual con- vention were called for, and Cleveland, Zanesville, Chicago, Pittsburg and Indianapolis were named, and on motion Pitts- burg was selected by a rising vote without a dissenting voice. President Dolan thanked the delegates on behalf of the Pittsburg miners for their action in honoring Pennsylvania. President Ratchford, on behalf of himself and the Vice- President, before adjourning, thanked the delegates for the 546 United Mine Workers of America assistance given them in conducting the largest and most har- monious convention ever held by our craft. A vote of thanks was tendered the press for the fidelity with which they had reported convention proceedings. Mr. Hunter, of Illinois, on behalf of the miners, thanked the delegates for the courtesies extended to the same. On motion. The convention adjourned to meet in joint con- vention at Chicago on Monday. Adjourned. CHAPTER XXVI. JOINT PROCEEDINGS, 1898. W. H. Holcomb, of Illinois, was appointed chairman of the interstate convention. W. C. Pearce and F. S. Brooks were appointed secretaries. A committee on credentials consisting of the respective secretaries for each state was appointed as follows : For miners — William Warner, Pennsylvania, T. L. Lewis, J. H. Kennedy, B. Navin, W. D. Ryan, S. C. Harless, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, West Virginia, For operators — J. C. Dysart, Chairman F. S. Brooks, J. W. Landrum, G. W. Traer, Not represented. Committee on Rules and Regulations. Miners — Patrick Dolan, W. E. Farms, W. G. Knight, John M. Hunter, H. Stephenson, The committees Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, West Virginia, having retired the Operators, J. B. Zerbe, Chairman J. S. Morton, J. Smith Talley, S. M. Dalzell, Not represented, nvention adjourned. Chicago Joint Proceedings, 1898 547 AFTERNOON SESSION. The convention was called to order with Mr. Holcomb in the chair. The committee on credentials reported the following eligi- ble to seats in the convention : Miners Operators 40 Pennsylvania, 45 83 Ohio, 67 27 Indiana, 43 111 Illinois, 95 17 West Virginia, Not represented. 278 250 The report was accepted. The committee on rules and regulations reported : That the convention meet daily at 9 a. m. and 12 p. m. and adjourn at 12 m. and 5 p. m. That special meetings may be held, or evening session if so ordered. That miners’ representatives occupy the left side of the hall, and operators the right, facing the stage. That each state be allowed the same number of votes on the floor of the House, four (4) votes in behalf of the opera- tors, and four (4) votes in behalf of the miners of each state. That no vote be declared carried unless upon the affirma- tive vote of the miners and operators of each state. That each state have four operators and four miners on the scale committee to be appointed, with the understanding that Illinois may have five (5) miners and five (5) operators with four votes, respectively. That the sessions of the general convention be open to the public except when otherwise ordered. The report was approved. J. B. Zerbe, Chairman, W. G. Knight, Secretary. The convention then took a recess until morning to enable the miners and operators of each state to select their repre- sentatives on the scale committee. 548 United Mine Workers of America TUESDAY MORNING, JANUARY 18, 1898. The convention was again called to order with Mr. Hol- comb in the chair. A scale committee was appointed from the different states as follows : Indiana Miners — W. G. Knight, Samuel Wales, J. H. Mor- gan, B. A. Navin. Indiana Operators — W. S. Bogle, J. Smith Talley, W. W. Risher, W. A. Zimmerman. Ohio Miners — T. L. Lewis, W. E. Farms, J. J. Mossop, George Shackert. Ohio Operators — J. S. Morton, W. R. Woodford, H. L. Chapman, H. D. Turney; alternate, Thomas Johnson. Pennsylvania Miners — Patrick Dolan, George Harris. Samuel Allen, William Warner. Pennsylvania Operators — F. L. Robbins, F, M. Osborne, M. H. Taylor, A. Dempster. Illinois Miners — J. J. Stanley, Jas. Connery, John Green, Jas. Boston, Jos. Manuel. Illinois Operators — A. L. Sweet, J. A. Agee, J. C. Simpson, G. W. Traer, J. M. Browning. West Virginia Miners — H. Stephenson, M. V. White, W. Taylor, John W. Branham. West Virginia Operators — Not represented. M. D. Ratchford, president ex-officio, member of scale committee. The convention then adjourned. During several days’ waiting for the scale committee to report, the mine run system was discussed ; the size of screens ; the wiping out of the 9 cents differential between Ohio and the Pittsburg district, together with resolutions, amendments and substitutes bearing upon the questions under consideration, after which Frank Robbins of Pennsylvania made the follow- ing statement: In behalf of the Pittsburg district, we came here under call to readjust differentials and adjust any other differences re- gardless of past conditions; to leave all propositions to the decision of the convention or to officers of the United Mine Workers of America and the scale committee. We are will- ing to accept a uniform scale for day labor, and the gross Chicago Joint Proceedings, 1898 549 weight (mine run) system based on a proper proportion of fine coal. I offer the following on the eight-hour day : Resolved, That the acknowledged day’s work throughout the five states represented in this convention shall be eight (8) hours on and after June 1, 1898, provided the same shall have been established and in operation in all the competitive states on and after May 1, 1898, to the satisfaction of miners and operators. This resolution was adopted by a unanimous vote of miners and operators. After the passage of this resolution H. L. Chapman, opera- tor of Ohio, offered the following : Resolved, That an advance of ten cents per ton be given to the miners of the competitive districts from and after January 16, 1898, and that the same relative conditions that now exist be continued in all the competitive fields. The discussion on this resolution brought out amendments and substitutes sufficient to cover all phases of the situation. The 9 cents differential between Ohio and the Pittsburg district developed strong arguments between the operators of the two latter named districts. Arbitration; the day wage scale; uniform screens and other suggestions were introduced that made things interesting for several days. Mr. Ratchford offered the following resolution : Moved that an advance of ten cents per ton for mining screened coal take effect in western Pennsylvania district. Hocking Valley district and Indiana bituminous district on April 1, 1898, and that a relative run of mine price be de- termined in the districts named by a uniform flat (or Akron shaped bar) screen of 72 superficial feet, IV 4 . inches space between bars" That the price of run of mine coal in the Illinois Grape Creek district and Indiana bituminous be 40 cents per ton from same date, based upon 66 cents in Pittsburg thin vein district and Hocking Valley and Indiana ; That on and after April 1, 1898, the eight-hour day shall be in effect in all of the. districts represented. That uniform wages for day labor shall be paid the differ- ent classes of labor in the fields named ; And that internal differences in any of the states, both as to prices and conditions, shall be referred to the states af- fected ; 550 United Mine Workers of America And that we further agree to the use of the diamond bar screen, present pattern, in the Block district if Indiana, with privilege of run of mine as may be desired by market condi- tions. After an amendment made by Thomas Johnson, an Ohio operator to change the Hocking Valley price from 66 to 61 cents per ton, was voted on and lost, on a final vote being taken the Ratchford resolution was adopted, with only two out of the four votes cast by Ohio operators voting against it. The passage of these provisions did not close the debate on the differential question between Ohio and Pittsburg opera- tors until the following resolutions were presented, acted upon and agreed to : Moved that the scale adopted be in effect April 1, 1898, and continue in effect to April 1, 1899, and that in the month of January a joint convention be held to fix the rate for the ensuing year at a time and place to be fixed at this convention. That present rates of mining, and present conditions, con- tinue to April 1, 1898. It was then ordered that a committee on scale be appointed to meet at the Great Northern Hotel the following day (Thursday, 27th) at 10 a. m., consisting of the National Board of the Miners’ organization and two operators from each state, the Miners’ state secretaries being added to the committee. Resolutions of thanks were tendered to the Chairman, l\Ir. W. H. Holcomb, and Miss Anna Treadwell, stenographer for the Miners, after which the convention adjourned. F. S. Brooks, W. C. Pearce, Secretaries. The following is the joint agreement entered into: CHICAGO JOINT AGREEMENT 1898. Chicago, Illinois, January 28, 1898. Contract by and between the operators of the competitive coal fields and the United Mine Workers of America: The following agreement made and entered into in joint Interstate convention in this city, January 26, 1898, by and between the operators and miners of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio Chicago Joint Proceedings, 1898 551 and Western Pennsylvania, known as the Pittsburg thin vein district, witnesseth: First — That an equal price for mining screened lump coal shall hereafter form a base scale in all of the districts above named, excepting the State of Illinois, the block coal district of Indiana to pay 10 cents per ton over that of Hocking Val- ley, Western Pennsylvania and Indiana bituminous district, and that the price of pick run of mine coal in the Hocking Valley and Western Pennsylvania shall be determined by the actual per centage of screening passing through such screen as is hereinafter provided, it being understood and agreed that screened or run of mine coal may be mined and paid for on the above basis at the option of the operators, according to market requirements, and the operators of Indiana bituminous shall also have like option of mining and paying for run of mine or screen coal. Second — That the screen horeby adopted for the State of Ohio, Western Pennsylvania and the bituminous district of Indiana shall be uniform in size, six feet wide by 12 feet long, built of flat or Akron shaped bar of not less than 5-8ths of one inch surface with 1 1-4 inches between bars, free from ob- structions, and that such screens shall rest upon a sufficient number of bearings to hold the bars in proper position. Third — That the block coal district of Indiana may con- tinue the use of the diamond screen at present size and pattern with the privilege of run of mine coal, the mining price of which shall be determined by the actual screenings and that the State of Illinois shall be absolutely upon a run of mine system and shall be paid for on that basis. Fourth — That an advance of 10 cents per ton of 2,000 pounds for pick mined screened coal shall take effect in West- ern Pennsylvania, Hocking Valley and Indiana bituminous districts on April 1, 1898, and that Grape Creek, Illinois, and the bituminous district of Indiana shall pay 40 cents per ton run of mine .coal from and after same date, based upon 66 cents per ton screened coal in Ohio, Western Pennsylvania and the Indiana bituminous district, same to continue in force un- til the expiration of this contract. Fifth — That on and after April 1, 1898, the eight-hour workday with eight hours’ pay, consisting of six days per week, shall be in effect in all of the districts represented and that uniform wages for day labor shall be paid the different classes of labor in the fields named, and that internal differ- ences in any of the states or districts, both as to prices or con- ditions shall be referred to the states or districts affected for adj ustment. 552 United Mine Workers of America Sixth — That the same relative prices and conditions be- tween machine and pick mining that have existed in the dif- ferent states shall be continued during the life of this contract. Seventh — That present prices for pick and machine min- ing, and all classes of day labor, shall be maintained in the competitive states and districts until April 1, 1898. Eighth — That the United Mine Workers’ organization, a party to this contract, do hereby further agree to afford all possible protection to the trade and to the other parties here- to, against any unfair competition resulting from a failure to maintain scale rates. Ninth — That this contract shall remain in full force and effect from April 1, 1898, to April 1, 1899, and that our next annual Interstate convention shall convene in the city of Pitts- burg on the third Tuesday in January, 1899. Adopted. Signed for Illinois operators, J. H. Garaghty, E. T. Bent. Indiana bituminous operators, Walter L. Bogle. Indiana block operators, C. B. Niblock. Pittsburg thin vein district operators, J. C. Dysart, F. M. Osborne. For Illinois miners, J. M. Hunter, W. D. Ryan. Indiana bituminous miners, W. G. Knight, J. H. Kennedy. Indiana block coal miners, J. E. Evans. For Ohio miners, W. E. Farms, T. L. Lewis. For Pittsburg thin vein miners, Patrick Dolan, Edward McKay. For West Virginia miners, Henry Stephenson. Members National Executive Board, United Mine Work- ers of America, Fred Dilcher, John Fahy, Henry Stephenson, Edward McKay, J. H. Kennedy, W. D. Ryan. M. D. Ratchford, President, U. M. W. of A. John Mitchell, Vice-President. W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer. CONSTITUTION DISTRICT No. 5. Agreed to and adopted at the annual convention held at Pittsburg, February 28, March 1, 2, 3, 1898. Article I. — Name and Jurisdiction. This organization shall be known as District 5, LTnited Mine Workers of America, and shall be composed of miners and mine laborers working in and about that portion of Penn- sylvania known as the Pittsburg district. Constitution District 5, 1898 553 Article II. — Officers and Their Duties. Section 1. The officers of this district shall be one presi- dent, one vice-president, one secretary-treasurer, and an Ex- ecutive Board of nine members, three of whom shall be the President, Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer, and shall be elected at each annual convention; also two auditors to audit the books for the ensuing year; books to be audited semi-annually. Sec. 2. The President shall preside at all conventions of the district ; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, fill by appointment all vacancies occurring in the district offi- ces, and in like manner he is authorized to suspend or remove any district officer for just or sufficient cause; he shall devote his time and attention to the interests of the district. Sec. 3. The Vice-President shall perform the duties of the President in case of death or removal from office of that official. Sec. 4. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of all books of the district office; he shall record proceedings of all district conventions, and meetings of the Executive Board ; he shall receive and receipt for all moneys; pay all current expenses; he shall prepare and submit to the local unions a semi-annual report of all moneys received and disbursed, and perform such other duties as may be assigned him; he shall give a bond of $1,000 to be approved by the Executive Board for the safe keeping of all moneys entrusted to him ; he shall not have more than $500 subject to his order at any time. All other funds must be deposited by him, subject to the order of the Executive Board. Sec. 5. The Executive Board shall execute the orders of the district conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the working of the district. The Board shall be convened by the President, or by the Secretary-Treas- urer at the request of five members of the Board. Article III. Section- 1. The revenue of this district shall be derived from local unions, which shall pay direct to the Secretary- Treasurer 8 cents per month per member, to be paid on or be- fore the 10th of the following month. Sec. 2. That any and all locals that are three months in arrears shall be considered in bad standing, and the Secretary at the end of two months shall notify said local, and said local not complying with the above shall be suspended. Sec. 3. The President or Secretary of each local union shall send to the District Secretary the number of miners at work at their respective mines at least once per month. 554 United Mine Workers of America Sec. 4. The Executive Board shall have the power to re- duce the per capita tax when they deem it advisable to do so. Sec. 5. All newly organized locals shall have been orga- nized at least two months prior to the annual convention, and shall have paid at least one month’s tax not less than one month before the date of the annual convention, before being entitled to representation. Article lY. Section 1. A member who has not served as a local presi- dent or local secretary for a period of six months and who has not been in good standing and member of a local for six months prior to his election, shall not be eligible to serve as a District President, Vice-President or Secretary-Treasurer. Any member must be in good standing for a period of six months prior to the annual convention before being eligible to serve any district office. Sec. 2. The salary of the President and Secretary-Treas- urer shall be $65 per month and necessary expenses ; salarj^ of the Executive Board shall be $2.50 per day, and necessary ex- penses when employed in the interests of the district. Article F. Section 1. The nomination for district officers shall be forwarded to the District Secretary-Treasurer at least one month before the district annual convention, with the neces- sary qualifications of the nominees according to Section I of Article IV., and the Secretary-Treasurer shall send a list of said nominations to each local union at least two weeks before said convention, and delegates shall come to the convention instructed to vote for candidates for the respective positions. Sec. 2. The election of district officers shall be by roll call and it shall require a majority of all votes cast to elect any district official. Article VI. Section 1. Whenever any trouble arises in any localitj’ the local President shall notify the District President, who shall either personally attend to it or detail a member of the Executive Board. Sec. 2. No member shall incur expenses in the district without first receiving orders from the President. Article VII. Section 1. The annual convention of this district shall be held on the second Tuesday in February of each year in the city of Pittsburg, Pa. Special conventions shall be called by the President when he thinks it necessary, or when so in- Convention District 2, 1898 555 structed by the Executive Board, or at the request of five local unions. Sec. 2. Representatives to the district conventions from affiliated locals shall have one vote for 50 members or less, and one vote for each additional 50 members or a ma- jority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than three votes. Sec. 3. No local union shall be allowed representation in district conventions who have not complied with the district and national constitutions. Sec. 4. Representation to the district convention shall be based on the average paid up membership in the district and national organization for the last three months preced- ing the annual convention. Article Till. Section 1. Alterations or amendments to this constitution shall be sent in to the District Secretary at least three months previous to the annual convention. The Executive Board shall approve or disapprove of the same, giving their reasons there- for. The District Secretary shall have the same printed and sent to each local at least one month previous to the district convention. Delegates shall come prepared to take action on amendments that are offered in this manner, and no amend- ment shall be considered unless it has gone through this course. Sec. 2. No alterations or amendments shall be made to this constitution except by a two-thirds vote of all members present at a regular annual convention of the district. ALTOONA CONVENTION, DISTRICT No. 2. Altoona, Pa., April 5, 1898. In the absence of President George Harris, who was de- tained at a meeting, the convention was called to order by the secretary-treasurer, James W. Killduff, who requested the con- vention to select a chairman to act until President Harris arrived. Chris Evans, national organizer, was elected chair- man. Mr. Evans in a neat speech explained the object of the convention and appointed the following committee on creden- tials: James Flynn, William Caulfield and Richard Crago. The convention then adjourned to give the committee time to report. 556 United Mine Workers of America AFTERNOON SESSION. :■ The convention was called to order at 1 :30 p. m. by Presi- dent George Harris. The committee on credentials reported the following entitled to the privileges of the convention: Edwin Greenough, Thomas Gulliford, William Caulfield, Thomas Winters, Fred Pepper, Patrick Toohey, T. A. Bradley, Dan Lennon, Michael Rafferty, John Pomroy, William Wood, G. W. Westhoven, Joseph Richey, William McDermott, Wm. E. Pugh, Daniel Powers, A. R. Fryckland, John T. Cline, Mor- gan Watkins, Samuel Morrison, Edward Fisher, John Lynch, Thomas J. McGuire, James W. Kilduff, William Penhall, S. W. Long, William Garland, W. B. Wilson, Charles Marsden, John Fuge, William H. Toule, James Flynn, M. D. Morgan, John R. Paisley, Albert Wilkinson, Hugh Cairns, Richard Gray, James Bateman, David M. Climent, Richard Crago, George Wilson, William Stewart, Fred Wentz, John Sullivan. The report of the committee on credentials was received, and the committee continued. The following committee was then appointed to see how many, if any, operators were will- ing to take part in a joint conference: W. B. Wilson, P. Mc- Gowan and William McDermott. The convention took a recess of thirty minutes to allow the committee time to work. The convention was called to order promptly at the end of 30 minutes. The announcement was made that the vice-presi- dent, Francis Richardson, had gone to Vancouver Island, and the office of vice-president was declared vacant. John T. Cline was declared elected to fill the vacancy. The question of adding a member to the executive board, who can speak the foreign languages, was then discussed and John Wingen was elected a member of the board. The Executive Board was then empowered to recommend for an organizer’s commission any reliable and competent member who may be recommended by his local union. The committee appointed to meet the operators reported that they found but two operators in the city, L. W. Robinson, of Punxsutawney, and John Leahy, of Lily, but they were un- willing to enter the conference without the other operators. A motion that the report be received and the committee be discharged, carried. Member of the National Executive Convention District 2, 1898 557 Board Edward McKay, of Pittsburg, being present, delivered a stirring address on the mining situation throughout the country and the work the miners can do, if they will. He yielded the floor to hear the reports of the delegates from the various parts of the District. The delegates had not finished their reports when the hour for adjournment arrived, and it was decided by motion to appoint a committee on resolutions. The following were appointed on the committee : James Flynn, W. B. Wilson, Thomas J. McGuire, William Wood, William Garland, Daniel Lennon, A. R. Fryckland, John Sullivan, Richard Crago. The convention then adjourned. The convention was called to order at 9 :30 Wednesday morning. President Harris in the chair. The delegates who were not heard the previous evening reported the conditions of their various localities, after which the committee on reso- lutions made the following report, which was unanimously adopted : Whereas, The operators have for the second time refused to meet us in joint session ; and Whereas, We have no desire to act rashly upon a question involving interests of such magnitude as the coal trade of the eastern competitive field ; now therefore be it Resolved, That our district officers and executive board be instructed to push vigorously the work of organizing the miners throughout the entire district; that they continue ne- gotiations with the operators looking to a joint conference; that if at any time operators representing a majority of the output in the eastern field signify their willingness to go into a joint conference with us the executive board shall call a convention for that purpose. Resolved, That if the operators representing a majority of the output in said eastern field do not at any time signify their willingness to meet us in joint conference the executive board shall, when in its judgment the work of organizing has progressed sufficiently and the condition of the trade war- rants it, notify all the miners in the eastern field from Tioga county, Pennsylvania, in the north to Tazewell county, Vir- ginia, in the south, to suspend work until the operators agree to meet us in joint session, or until the conditions of the Chi- cago agreement have been complied with. Resolved, That from the time when the executive board issues a notice of suspension until such suspension shall take place shall not be more than five days. 558 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That the miners of District No. 2 continue work for the present in accordance with the previous resolu- tions; provided that this resolution shall not be so construed as to prevent any locality from stopping work to remedy local grievances. It was moved and adopted that this convention is in favor of the anti-screen law and its enforcement in all parts of the state. On motion, it was decided to render all possible assistance to the men at Patton, who are now on strike against the change from loading by the ton to loading by the car, which means a reduction in price. The matter has been left in the hands of the district officers and it is to be hoped the Patton men will receive the support they deserve and are in need of, some of them being idle about six weeks. A motion was adopted that the convention favor the candi- dacy for assembly of William Wood, David Bailey and John R. Hill, of Clearfield county. A resolution was adopted that, when the delegates return home, each use his influence to have committees appointed to solicit donations at the mines, to be sent to the secretary- treasurer to push the work of organization. Member of the National Executive Board Edward McKay, National Organi- zer Chris Evans, Factory Inspector T. A. Bradley, President Harris and others made stirring speeches, after which the convention adjourned. James W. Killduff, Secretary-Treasurer. DISTRICT No. 5, PITTSBURG, PA. Day wages, yardage, mining prices for pick and machine, screened and mine run coal, 2,000 pounds per ton. Size of screen, lf4 inches between bars. April 1, 1S98, to 1897 (lOhrs.) April 1. 1900 (8 lirs.) _$ 1 . 68 -$ 2.25 _ 1 . 30 - 1.60 _ 1 . 30 - 1.50 _ . 75 - 1.25 _ 1 . 90 - 2.00 _ 1 . 20 - 1.50 _ 1 . 30 - 1.50 Day Wages, Outside — First blacksmith Dumpers Trimmers Greasers Engineers Firemen Other outside labor — District 5 Comparative Wage Scale 559 Day Wages, Inside — Tracklayers $1.45-11.85 $1.90 Tracklayers’ helpers 1.75 Drivers _ 1.65- 1.85 1.75 Trappers __ - .55- .70 .75 Gagers _ _ - __ 1.35- 1.60 1.75 Trip rope riders __ _ 1.75 Water haulers 1.50- 1.65 1.75 Timbermen — — - 1.90 Pipemen — — - _ 1.85 Other inside labor — _ — — _ 1.75 Pick Mining, Per Ton — Thin vein, screened coal — $0.65 $0.66 Thick vein, screened coal .48-! 50.52 .5208 Thin vein, mine run coal .39 .4266 Thick vein, mine run coal .3413 Room turning, neck not over 7 yards . 2.06 2.50 Single shift entry, per yard .82 1.35 Double shift entry, per yard 1.03 1.60 Treble shift entry, per yard _ 1.24 1.85 Room break-throughs, per yard _ ___ .41 .95 Entry break-throughs, per 'yard — — .95 Machine Mining, Per ton OS t- 00 5 ? ^ >-rt C t-H 3 S 03 g Cutting in rooms, thin vein, screened coal $0,121^ $0.08 Cutting in rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.0807 0.0517 Cutting in rooms, thick vein, screened coal 0.10 0.064 Cutting in rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.0645 0.0413 Cutting in entries, thin vein, screened coal 0.13% 0.11 Cutting in entries, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.0870 0.0711 Cutting in entries, thick vein, screened coal 0.108 Cutting in entries, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.0697 Loading in rooms, tliin vein, screened coal 0.33 0.33 Loading in rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.2133 0.2133 Loading in rooms, thick vein, screened coal 0.264 0.264 Loading in rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.1706 0.1706 Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, screened coal 0.36 0.36 Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, mine- run coal * 0.2327 0.2327 Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thick vein, screened coal 0.288 0.288 Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.1860 0.1860 Power drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, screen- ed coal 0.35 0.35 Power Drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, mine- run coal 0.2262 0.2262 Power drilling and loading in rooms, thick vein, screened coal , 0.28 0.28 Power drilling and loading in rooms, thick vein, mine- run coal 0.1809 0.1809 560 United Mine Workers of America Hand drilling and loading in entries, thin vein, screened coal 0.441^ Hand drilling and loading in entries, thin vein, mine- run coal 0.2S76 Hand drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, screened coal 0.356 Hand drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, mine- run coal ^ 0.2300 Power drilling and loading in entries, thin vein, screened coal 0.43% Power drilling and loading in entries, thin vein, mine- run coal 0.2812 Power drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, screened coal 0.348 Power drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, mine- run coal 0.2250 Loading in entries, thin vein, screened coal 0.41% Loading in entries, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.2682 Loading in entries, thick vein, screened coal 0.332 Loading in entries, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.2145 Loading in break througlis, between rooms, thin vein screened coal 0.39 Loading in break througlis, between rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal , 0.2520 Loading in break-throughs, between rooms, thick vein, screened coal 0.312 Loading in break-throughs, between rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.2016 Loading and hand drilling in break-throughs, between rooms, thin vein, screened coal 0.44% Loading and hand drilling in break-throughs, between rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.2876 Loading and hand drilling in break-throughs, between rooms, thick vein, screened coal 0.356 Loading and hand drilling in break-thorughs, between rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.2300 Power drilling, thin vein, screened coal 0.0200 Power drilling, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.0130 Power drilling, thick vein, screened coal 0.0160 Power drilling, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.0100 Hand drilling, thin vein, screened coal 0.0300 Hand drilling, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.0200 Hand drilling, thick vein, screened coal 0.0240 Hand drilling, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.0160 Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thin vein, screened coal 0.41% Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thin vein, mine-run coal 0.2682 Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thick vein, screened coal 0.332 Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thick vein, mine-run coal 0.2145 JOINT AGREEMENT. A joint committee, composed of operators and the Massillon district, met at Massillon, April 6, 0.44% 0.2876 0.356 0.2300 0.43% 0.2812 0.348 0.2250 0.41% 0.2682 0.332 0.2145 0.39 0.2520 0.312 0.2016 0.44% 0.2876 0.356 0.2300 0.0200 0.0130 0.0160 0.0100 0.0300 0.0200 0.0240 0.0160 miners of 1898, and Massillon, Ohio, Joint Wage Scale 561 agreed upon the following scale of prices for inside deadwork and supplies : Mining, per ton $0.66 Entry, single shift 1.75 Entry, double shift 2.00 Break-throughs between entries, per yard 1.50 Break-throughs between rooms, per yard 1.12 Turning rooms 1.65 All inside day labor, by miners 1.75 Dirt coming down unadvoidably, 5 cents for every six inches. Ripping top and bottom, 5 cents per inch per yard. Horsebacks to be agreed upon by miners and mine boss. Operators to take water out or to agree with miners as to price. Entry four yards wide to be 35 cents per yard less than narrrow entry. Wet entry, price to be agreed upon by miner and mine boss. Car limit, 2,500 pounds. Powder, per keg $1.60 Oil, per gallon .50 House coal, per ton 1.40 Smithing, entries : .01% Smithing, rooms .01 At the above rates all persons are to furnish their own oil. It was moved by Mr. Howells that Saturday shall be con- sidered as any other day of the week; that is to say, that it shall consist of eight hours’ work. If, however, at any time in the future, it shall be known that any district in the state shall agree to work only one-half day on Saturdays, we, the operators in the Massillon district, agree to take the matter up with a committee of miners appointed for that purpose. Moved, by Mr. Howells, that one hour for dinner shall be the rule in the Massillon coal district. However, if less time shall be generally adopted throughout the state of Ohio, we, the operators of the Massillon district, are willing to take the matter up with a committee of miners appointed for the purpose. Moved, by Mr. Howells, that sun time shall be used in the Massillon coal district, work to commence at 7 o’clock a. m., taking one hour for dinner from 11 to 12 ; quitting time at 4 o’clock p. m., sun time. If, however, standard time shall be generally adopted in the Ohio coal districts, the Massillon op- erators expect and shall use standard time also. All inside labor to be same as adopted at Columbus, Ohio, as follows: Track layers $1.90 Track layers’ helpers 1.75 562 United Mine Workers of America Trappers .75 Bottom cagers 1.75 Drivers 1.75 Trip drivers 1.75 Water haulers 1.75 Timber men 1.90 Pipe men for compressed air plants 1.85 All other inside day labor 1.75 Signed on behalf of miners by: Wm. Morgan, District President. M. B. Evans, District Vice-President. John Williams, Secretary-Treasurer. Frank Welch. Stephen J. Evans. James Crichton. Signed on behalf of operators by: J. P. Burton, Chairman. E. E. Fox, Secretary. A. Howell. J. F. POCOCK. R. H. Wainwright. James Wilson. W. J. Mullins. THE PITTSBURG SCALE, AS AGREED UPON BETWEEN MINERS AND OPER- ATORS AT A CONFERENCE HELD AT PITTS- BURG ON APRIL 8 TO 11, 1898. When the price of fi^-inch screen coal is per ton $0.66 Room turning, neck not to exceed 7 yards 2.50 Entry work, for 1 yard of entry completed 1.35 Entry work, for 1 yard of entry complete, double shift, per yard 1.60 Entry work, for 1 yard of entry, treble shift, per yard 1.85 For 12-foot places — Break-throughs between rooms, per yard .95 Break-throughs between entries, where slate is taken do\vn or comes down and has to be removed, per yard : 1.35 Break-throughs between entries, where slate is not taken do\ra .95 Pick sharpening, on the dollar .01 Vi Machine Mining Harrison, Ingersoll or Sullivan Machines — The undercutting in rooms, per ton -12^ For loading in rooms, per ton -33 For drilling by hand and loading in rooms, per ton .36 For drilling by power and loading in rooms, per ton .35 For cutting in entries, per ton -13V^ Joint Agreement District 23 563 For loading in entries, per t(ni : -41% For driiiing by hand and ioading in entries, per ton -44% For driiiing by power and ioading in entries, per ton -43% Loading in break-tliroiiglis, between entries, per ton -41% Loading and hand driiiing in break-tlironghs in entries, per ton -44% Loading in break-thronghs between rooms, per ton .39 Loading and hand driiiing in break-throughs in rooms, per ton .42 Driiiing by power driii, per ton .02 Driiiing by iiand driii, per ton .13% For ioading and cutting in room turning entry price siiaii be paid. Jeffrey, Link-Beit, Morgan-Gardner, Cliain !Macliines — For undercutting in rooms, per ton .08 For undercutting in entries, per ton .11 All loading and drilling after this machine to be the same as that paid for Harrison, Ingersoll or Sullivan machines. For cutting clay veins, spar, etc., the price to be 30 per cent, less than by pick for Harrison machine and 37 per cent, less than by pick for Jeffrey machine, to be divided between cutter and loader in same relative proportion as paid for room work, (this to be figured out when the scale is complete). The hours of day labor at all mines to be from 7 o’clock a. m. until 12 noon, with one full hour for dinner, and then from 1 o’clock p. m. until 4 o’clock p. m. JOINT AGREEMENT, DISTRICT 23, 1898. The following agreement, entered into in the joint conven- tion at Central City, Kentucky, April 14, 1898, by and between the mine operators (of the Louisville Division of the J. C. and the 0. and N. roads) and their employes, witnesseth: PICK MINING. Resolution No. 1. Resolved, That the price of pick mining, for the year end- ing March 31, 1899, shall be 66 cents per ton, over the district standard screen: It is distinctly understood that when any company uses a shaker screen that screens more than the standard screen they shall weigh coal in the cars on a run of mine basis. It is agreed that the ratio of lump coal to mine run over li/^-inch district standard screen shall be based on 62 per cent going into the weigh box, and this per cent shall regulate the ratio of lump and run of mine coal whenever any change is made in the price of mining. That the mine run price shall be 41 cents per ton, an equivalent of 62 per cent of 66 cents, the price of lump coal. 564 United Mine Workers of America It is understood that coal shall be mined 2^ feet, and the solid may be shot not more than an equal amount. Resolution No. 2. Resolved, That the price of yardage in entries shall be $1 per yard, but when the entry exceeds 10 feet and not more than 12 feet the price shall be 75 cents per yard, and no yard- age shall be paid in excess of 12 feet. Should the bank boss and miner driving an entry agree that it is wet, then the miner shall receive 25 cents per yard extra. Resolution No. S. Resolved, That the price of turning rooms shall be $3 per room. MACHINE MINING. Resolution No. Jf. Resolved, That the price for drilling, shooting, loading and timbering, after the chain and punch machines, shall be one-half of the price of pick mining. There shall be no differential in loading between the punch and chain machines, on condition that the companies using chain machines brad the coal, handle the slack and take up the bottom. Resolution No. 5. Resolved, That chain machine runners and helpers shall be paid at the rate of $3.75 per 27 cuts, under ordinary condi- tions, divided: $2 to the runner and $1.75 to the helper; and when they work by the day the runner shall receive 25 cents an hour and the helper 21% cents per hour. The punch machine runners shall receive 6 cents per ton and the helpers 4 cents per ton for mine run coal ; and when they work by the day the runner shall receive 25 cents per hour and the helper cents per hour. Resolution No. 6. Resolved, That the yardage for chain machines and punch machines shall be 50 cents per yard, to be divided as follows : 35 cents to the loader, 8 cents to the cutter and 7 cents to the helper in chain machine mines, and 261/2 cents to the loader, 14 cents to the cutter and 9% cents to the helper in punch machine mines. Resolution No. 7. Resolved, That turning rooms in machine mines shall be paid for by the yard at 50 cents per yard, divided between loaders and cutters and their helpers. Joint Agreement District 23, 1898 565 Resolution No. 8. Resolved, That the company shall lay all roads and timber all bad places not caused by the miner’s own negligence. Resolution No. 9. Resolved, That a square turn shall be kept over the mines in rooms and narrow work, under ordinary conditions. Half turn to boys between 12 and 16 years. Resolution No. 10. Resolved, That miners absent without notice to their bank boss for three consecutive days shall forfeit their working place. Resolution No. 11. Resolved, That any. miner loading an unusual amount of slate, sulphur or other impurities shall be laid off one day for each offense. The weighmaster and the checkweighman to be the judges of such unusual amount, and any miner laid off three times during any one month shall then be subject to discharge. Resolution No. 12. Resolved, That the checkweighman shall have a number to run his account, and shall be allowed to cut each miner to an amount not exceeding $1 per month. It is distinctly understood that such cuts must be with the approval of each miner. Any additional cuts can only be made on the written order of each employe, and such orders shall be payable out of the cash balance due to said employe on pay day. That no miner shall be blacklisted who does not agree to have checkweighman or other cuts collected. Union and non-union men shall be employed without prej- udice. Resolution No. 13. Resolved, That no mass meeting shall be held during work- ing hours, on or off the companies’ premises, when the mine is running, and anyone calling a meeting shall be subject to discharge. No committee shall visit any employe at his working place except in company with the bank boss, to settle a grievance and any employe caught out of his working place during work- ing hours, except for satisfactory reasons, is liable to have his turn stopped at the option of the bank boss. 566 United Mine Workers of America Resolution No. IJf. Resolved, That all labor shall be paid for by the hour or quarters of hours and that eight hours shall constitute a day’s labor, so far as mine laborers and miners are concerned, but the eight hours shall not affect the engineers, firemen, pump- ers, outside teamsters, night watchmen or special repair work, nor such men as are now paid by the month. That an eight-hour day means eight hours’ work in the mine at usual working places for all classes of day labor and miners, and any miner late without reasonable excuse shall forfeit his turn for the day. This shall be exclusive of the time required in reaching working places and departing from same at night. Regarding drivers, they shall take their mules to and from the stable, and the time in so doing shall not include any part of the day’s work, their work beginning when they reach the change at which they receive empty cars, but in no case shall a driver’s time be docked while he is waiting for such cars at point named. That the following scale of wages shall be paid for inside work: Per Day Tracklayers $1.75 Tracklayers’ helpers 1.60 Trappers .50 Bottom cagers 1.60 Drivers 1.60 Riders ^ 1.60 Water haulers 1.60 Timbermen 1.75 Pipemen 1.70 All other inside day labor 1.60 The present outside scale of wages per hour in force at each mine shall remain unchanged, except that we agree that eight hours’ work shall receive nine hours’ pay. Resolutimi No. 15. That there shall be no boys employed as drivers, except on straight track, and said drivers shall receive 25 cents per day less than the district scale. Resolution No. 16. Resolved, That employes are liable to be discharged for : (a) Disorderly conduct. (b) Gambling and shooting on the company’s premises. (c) Taking coal, tools, timber, etc., without permission. Joint Agreement District 23, 1898 567 (d) Firing before the run stops without permission of the bank boss. (e) Committing a nuisance in entries, airways or the necks of rooms. Resolution No. 17. Resolved, That in case of a death in the family of an em- ploye the following rules shall prevail : (a) Death by accident in or around the mine shall lay the mine idle until after the funeral. (b) Death of a grown person or employe from natural causes, the mine will lie idle on the afternoon of the funeral. (c) On the death of a child or minor, the work will not lie idle, but those wishing to attend the funeral may do so. The turn lost by the grave diggers in the last two rules shall be made up to them during the month. Resolution No. 18. Resolved, That we require that married men shall at all times form the majority of all grievance committees. Resolution No. 19. Resolved, That in all conferences the employes of each mine, or especially the mine affected, shall be represented by not less than three of the employes of such mine, and that the voting power shall always be vested in such employes, but this does not preclude the presence of any officials of the labor organization. Resolution No. 20. Resolved, That there shall be a board of arbitration and conciliation to adjust all disputes arising under this agree- ment, composed of three on each side, with power to select an umpire, and their decision shall be final and binding on all parties to this agreement and those they represent, but under no circumstances shall work stop, and any suspension of work before the decision of the arbitrator is received, such sus- pension will be sufficient cause to discharge all parties caus- ing the dispute. « Resolution No. 21. Resolved, That it is the spirit of this agreement that, in consideration of the co-operation of the mining companies with the United Mine Workers of America, said organization • must at all times show, when required, that they control two- thirds of the mine employes of the district making this agree- ment, and in consideration of such co-operation the said orga- nization guarantees uniformity and equality of mining and 568 United Mine Workers of America day scale wages with other competitive mines, especially those of western Kentucky. This has special reference to the I. C. and 0. and N. mines for immediate uniformity, but this equality is guaranteed with the Henderson division mines by September 1, 1898. Resoluiion No. 22. Resolved, That this contract goes into effect May 1, 1898, and continues in force until March 31, 1899. In witness whereof we have hereunto suscribed our names, this 14th day of April, 1898. C. L. Field, Simon Jones, J. S. Williams, C. W. Taylor, Guy M. Deane, Operator’s Scale Committee. J. F. Smith, Joe B. Reed, James A. Walker, Thomas R. Jeffreys, J. H. Williams, Miners’ Scale Committee. W. G. Duncan, Hywell Davies, Advisory for Operators W. G. Knight, Joseph Smith, Advisory for Miners. Guy M. Deane, Secretary for Operators. James Wood, Secretary for Miners. SPECIAL CONVENTION, DISTRICT No. 5. Pittsburg, Pa., May 5, 1898. At a special convention of District No. 5, United Mine Workers of America, held at Pittsburg, Pa., May 5, 1898, with 106 delegates present, Patrick Dolan, president, and William Warner, secretary, made reports, the principal objects of which were to familiarize the delegates with the true situa- tion in the Pittsburg district. After various committees had Special Convention District 5, 1898 569 been appointed and reports of officers accepted, it was moved that the report of a joint committee, that had been appointed to make a test on run of mine coal, be made to the convention. Their joint report follows: Committee of operators and miners, appointed to make the test on percentage of coal going through and over the screen, came to order with W. F. Sanford, operator, in the chair. W. J. Steen mine, pick mine, 60.29 per cent. Montour mine, Imperial, pick mine, 63 per cent. Snowden mine, pick mine, 70.30 per cent. Margerum mine, pick mine, 70.10 per cent. Keiling mine, pick mine, 61.90 per cent. Moon Run mine, pick and machine, 63.70 per cent. Willock mine, machine, 62.65 per cent. Willock mine, pick and machine, 65.79 per cent. West Newton, pick and machine, 60 per cent. Manown mine, machine mine, 62.60 per cent. Tremont mine, machine mine, 71.28 per cent. Redbird mine, pick mine, 60 per cent. Apollo mine, pick mine, 58.20 per cent. Little Red Stone, machine mine, 71.10 per cent. Johnson mine, machine mine, 63.9 per cent. Catsburg, machine mine, 64.40 per cent. Camden mine, pick mine, 68.80 per cent. White Lily mine, machine mine, 58.20 per cent. Port Royal, machine mine, 69.80 per cent. Gallatin mine, pick and machine mine, 71.80 per cent. Creedmore, machine mine, 66.50 per cent. Mansfield No. 2, pick mine, 61.20 per cent. National, pick mine, 65.15 per cent. Nickel Plate, machine mine, 61.35 per cent. No. 2 Rend, machine mine, 66.50 per cent. Jumbo, machine mine, 63.5 per cent. Champion, machine mine, 64.84 per cent. Total, 1,745.27 per cent. Twenty-seven mines averaging 64.64 per cent. This report is to be sent to committee on dead work and run-of-mine price. 570 United Mine Workers of America The above report is a correct copy of findings of com- mittee. N. F. Sanford, Chairman, George Hozack, J. W. Blower, Uriah Bellingham, Robert Johnston, Committee. William Dodds, Secretary. Later, the committee returned, that had met the operators, and reported that they had agreed upon 42.66 per cent, per ton for run-of-mine, based on 66 cents over li/4-inch screen. Run-of-mine in the thick vein, 34.13 cents per ton. Screen coal in the thick vein, 52.8 cents. They further reported regarding the question of machine rates in narrow work, that the operators employing Harrison machine cutters were willing to advance all narrow work 2 cents per ton, provided the Jeffrey machine scale was advanced proportionately. The Jeffrey machine operators’ representatives not being prepared to consider such a question, we were forced to adjourn. At the second day’s session, President Dolan was given un- limited time to address the convention, during which time he reported the following detective incident : President Dolan proceeded to identify J. D. Gray, delegate from Smithton Local Union, who was also recording secretarjq as a paid detective in the employ of a detective agency, which employs men to spy on the miners and their officials and re- port all actions of miners and conventions. At the conclusion of President Dolan’s remarks, Delegate J. D. Gray surrendered the notes he had taken and withdrew from the convention. After three days’ deliberation of grievances, which were many, on scale prices and other matters, it was moved that the adjustment of the scale be left in the hands of the officials, and the convention adjourned sine die. Patrick Dolan, President. William Warner, Secretary. ScAiFE ON Gov. Tanner of Illinois 571 MAY 19, 1898. The latest southern news is to the effect that a district of the United Mine Workers of America was organized at Pratt City, Alabama, on Monday, May 23, 1898. W. R. Fairley, of Pratt City, was elected President. S. P. Cheatham and John Kelly, of Blocton, were elected Vice-President and Secretary- Treasurer respectively. There were delegates in attendance from ten mining camps, representing nearly eleven hundred miners. Bill Scaife of Illinois, on Governor Tanner, in Journal of May, 1898: The most pleasing incident of the week, to my way of thinking, was the way the Governor turned down the Miss Nancy aristocracy of Illinois and Washington, D. C., and inci- dentally that “dude” ■ who banks on the great name of his father, John A. Logan. Illinois, in its national guard, has a command of cavalary. Logan and his blue blooded friends conceived the idea of turning down the colonel who has been commanding it and usurping his place, and brought pressure on the Governor to induce him to countenance their high handed policy. But for once they were mistaken in their man and got some hot shot poured broadside into their flanks that must have made them wince. The pungent remarks the Gov- ernor made is what tickled me. Here is the Tanner language : “I have no patience with this Miss Nancy aristocracy which seeks these preferments. It is against my judgment and my policy to grant appointments of honor, of responsibility and renown to the sons of great men simply because of their parentage. Whenever we begin that the decay of the republic will have begun. It is seldom that the names of great men are perpetuated by their sons. The men who attain distinction come from the farm and the other ordinary vocations of life. To reach the same development the men who are to come after them must climb upward by their own exertions and take the same hard road which others have traveled. “Let him earn the right to it by his own exertions and come back from the fleld with a reputation for himself,” said Governor Tanner, “and I will take off my hat to him with as great pleasure as to any man on earth.” CHAPTER XXVII. PITTSBURG JOINT CONFERENCE. On May 19, 1898, there was a joint conference between operators and miners of the Monongahela river, held at Pitts- burg, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of trying to adjust prices on the four pools in order to make them more uniform and in conformity with what was said to be for the best interest of the whole. The conference elected Patrick Dolan, miner, to preside, and W. H. Flint, operator, secretary. The following were appointed as credentials committee: Operator George W. Theis; for miners, John Wilkes, Edward Haley, and August Raymond. Credentials committee reported the following miners’ delegates present: Robert Phillips, Geo. Greabs, Geo. Taylor, Geo. Strasser, Thos. Norman, A. D. Steves, Anthony Dean, John Morgan, Aug. Rehman, Geo. Luxon, Ed Soppirt, Ted Eisenbarth, Mathew Cloonen, John Wadsworth, L. Jones, James Berry, J. J. Gibbons, Wm. Parsgrove, A. Brown, J. B. McLaughlin, Samuel Gregory, John Hergert, J. Wilkes, Ed Haley, J. W. Sarver, J. Jones. Operators present: Gus Dales, A. Inskeep, H. C. Bugh- man, A. Dempster, Pursglove, T. M. Jenkins, Geo. Lysle, A. D. Sharp, W. W. O’Neill, T. J. Wood, Sam Pearsall, Thos. Briggs, Bausman, Van Horn, Geo. W. Theis, J. W. Ailes, W. C. Jutte, S. A. Wilson, W. H. Flint, Jones, Van Eman, Blower, W. J. Wood, Blythe, W. B. Rodgers, S. L. Wood. The following were appointed as committee on rules: For Operators — W. B. Rodgers, J. W. Ailes, 0. A. Blackburn ; for Miners — Geo. Taylor, Second Pool; Louis Jones, Third Pool; John Wadsworth, Fourth Pool. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. After the necessary committees had been appointed a paper was read by Operator A. D. Sharp of Champion, said to be ( 572 ) Joint Conference, District 5 573 in behalf of I. N. Bunton, of the First Pool, dealing exten- sively with the questions involved, including “lack of uni- formity and unjust discrimination” inaugurated upwards of thirty years ago. In the early days the paper said : A differential of % cent per bushel was allowed to operators of the first pool, as against the lower end of the river. The writer of the paper read, stated that he was addressing himself to the miners whom he considered masters of the situation and advised that the object could only be attained by at once eliminating all differentials, and fixing one uniform rate for the whole river, from one end to the other. The question was discussed by representatives of the third and fourth pools, as against the arguments used by those of the first and second pools, with much earnestness. Resolutions, amendments and substitutes were also offered, that made interesting reading, and for a few days a very active spirit of the spectacular kind took possession of the joint con- ference held, but the force of the vernacular having somewhat subsided, it was finally “Resolved,” by Mr. Dempster, “That the question of differentials on the river is one for arbitra- tion, and that it be submitted to a committee composed of Michael Ratchford, Patrick Dolan, Edward McKay, and Wil- liam Warner, with one operator from each pool; in case it is decided in the affirmative, they shall make arrangements for a just and fair arbitration, and that they shall further de- cide what the price of mining shall be from now until the arbitration board makes its award.” This resolution was adopted and the conference adjourned sine die. The following announcement was made at the close of the conference: Pittsburg, Pa., May 31, 1898. To the Operators and Miners of the Monongahela Valley of the Pittsburg' District. Gentlemen : Under a resolution adopted at our last joint convention held in this city May 19-21, we, your committee, met today to consider the question of the arbitration of the differentials of the different pools of the Monongahela river, with the fol- lowing result : First — 'That the arbitration of the mining prices in any of 574 United Mine Workers of America the districts governed by the Chicago agreement would be a violation of the agreement, as will be seen by its preamble, as follows: “Chicago, January 28. — Contract between the operators of the central coal fields and the United Mine Workers of America; The following agreement made and entered into in joint interstate convention in this city (Chi- cago, 111.), by and between the operators and miners of Illi- nois, Indiana, Ohio and Western Pennsylvania, known as the Pittsburg thin vein district, witnesseth:” Second — That the prices fixed in Chicago were relatively fair and competitive and agreed to by all representatives of the fields named, and that the departure from such prices during the life of our contract would unjustly affect and injure the interests of all of the districts represented. Third — That the interests who are suing for arbitration, namely the operators of the third pool of the Monongahela river, were parties to the Chicago agreement and fully sub- scribed to all of its provisions, and are, therefore, not en- titled to any lower prices than that provided for the thin vein district during the life of our present agreement. Fourth — That, if concessions of this character were granted in any of the fields governed by our agreement it would no doubt lead to the demoralization and disruption of our present joined relations, which we have labored so long and so hard to accomplish. In view of these facts and others that might be given showing the fairness and justness of the position we have taken, we, your committee, do heartily recommend to all miners and operators that the Chicago agreement be strictly adhered to at all the mines in this district, and that wherever such prices are not acceded to, the miners will take the necessarj^ steps to enforce it. Signed, in behalf of the operators : I. N. Bunton, W. B. Rodgers, W. W. O’NEIL. In behalf of the miners : Pat Dolan, William Warner, M. D. Ratchford. PROCEEDINGS— DISTRICT 12 AND JOINT CONFERENCE. A special convention of the Illinois miners was held at Springfield, May 19, 1898, with the object of adjusting pick Special and Joint Conventions, District 12 575 and machine mining prices through a joint conference with operators. President John Hunter presided, and W. D. Ryan acted as secretary. After reading the call issued, John D. Davison, A. B. Stor- mont, and H. A. Windsor were appointed a committee on cre- dentials. The committee reported delegates entitled to seats as follows : Aron Devall, Harry McGlasson, Jas. H. Hanisson, Duncan Cameron, James K. Conner, Chas. Papproth, Jas. Brooks, David Jones, Edward Murphy, W. E. Smith, Emil Grabuck, Jno. E. Miller, Thos. Pritchard, Wm. Hefti, Albert Neutzling Jas. Beattie, Wm. Bailie, John Demlow Jas. Boston, Mathias Koener, Wm. Sherman, Wm, Pearson, Martin Duffy, Morris J. Powers, John Green, Martin Gergens, Thos. Davi- son, Mat. Johnson, C. Ogles, Frank Welch, R. L. Anderson, Evan Owens, John Pierce, Wilford Ward, Jos. Sutton, Wm. Knowles, Martin Bolt, Dan Bradley, John Schultz, Geo. Boyce, W. McPeak, Geo. Grim, David Allen, Wm. H. Wright, L. Fuerst, Robt. Richardson, L. S. Hurt, Wm. Irwin, Thos. His- cock, Lawson Crichton, W. E. Hawley, J. J. McGovern, Jas. Murphy, John McGarrity, Thos. Moses, Jacob W. Bayer, Jos. Manuel, Jas. Burns, Peter Retzheimer, Jos. Parson, Daniel Mahan, Patrick Cardill, Dan Beeger, Gear McGee, Geo. Brown, Wm. Proctor, Geo. McNeill, Lewis Crain, Theo. Camp- bell, Walter Rawatt, Jasper Reed, Jas. Haney, Albert Webber, Jas. Dun, Daniel Cashman, Bernard Murphy, Chas. Cutler, G. Reace, John Solomon, Jos. Boak, Benj. J. King, N. E. Mc- Aulty, T. J. Reynolds, J. Schusk, W. D. Ryan, Jos. Novak, Jas. Kane, Geo. Craus, A. B. Stormont, Geo. Tabellson, John Davison, Arthur Lindwick, H. A. Windsor, D. W. Jones, Chas. Caine, Wm. Adams, E. R. Smith, W. H. Derry, Jas. Ogorek, Frank McKeowan, A. Bradley, Sam Johnson, Geo. Bagwill, J. W. Dunham, Frank McGurk, F. E. Wiliams, Dan Fogarty, John Collister, Geo. Davis, David M. Mahan, T. E. Williams, J. C. Mitchell, Jacob Hill, Robt. Alkire, Dan Mitcheson, Jas. Nelson, H. Fawand, Thos. Campbell, Peter Owens, S. Steward, L. R. Collins, Thos. Shields, C. Clements, Geo. Harland, John Kaney, W. G. Shepard, Henry Hall, Chas. McGoughlin. When the committees had been appointed, the following 576 United Mine Workers of America substitute to resolutions offered was adopted : “That the ma- chine scale as fixed at Chicago be maintained in Illinois, and the grievance in hand mining be considered by the joint con- ference.” Vice-President John Mitchell addressed the convention, reviewed the mining situation at length, and advised the miners to live up to their agreement, a necessary essential for the future preservation of the organization. A motion was agreed to “That the differential be seven cents between machine and pick mining.” At the joint conference J. M. Hunter was elected chair- man, and C. S. Scroggs, secretary, with W. D. Ryan as assis- tant secretary. On the question of voting, the miners selected: Keenan, Beattie, Pascoe, Mitchell, Cartwright, Reynolds, Morris, Wright and Green to act for them. Mr. Sweet, on the part of operators, reported that the operators’ executive committee would vote for the operators in so far as they had been in- structed. Vice-President Mitchell then explained the object of the joint convention to be the arranging of the hand mining scale, where operators object against the paying and also the fix- ing of machine differentials. And moved to take up hand min- ing scale first, in fourth district, and other places in the state. Carried by unanimous vote. Moved that those who claim they have been unjustly dealt with now present their claims to this convention. Mr. Lukens, of Virden, on behalf of the operators, asked if the operators were prepared to vote on the question. Mr. Moorshead reported that the operators were prepared to vote and were instructed to stand by the Springfield scale. Mr. Lukens then went into the condition of mining affairs in the Fourth District, claiming that the rate of 40 cents was entirely too high and prohibited them from entering the St. Louis market; 90 per cent of his coal went to the Chicago market and they are shut out of that market also, not hav- ing run since April 1. He presented a set of figures showing the profit on 1,000 tons of coal from his Virden mine as com- pared with 1,000 tons from the Danville district. Disteict 12 Joint Conference 577 Mr, Moorshead took the floor and denied the accuracy of the flgures presented by Mr. Lukens. Mr. Ogara, of the Greenridge Co., presented figures along the same lines as Mr. Lukens. The discussion continued at considerable length, by Lukens and Ogara on one side, and Mr. Moorshead and Agee on the other. ' Mr. Hearst, who operates a mine at Virden, and also at Springfield, stated he could run his mine at Springfield, but could not possibly operate his Virden mine at the scale price. Adjourned to meet at 2 :30. The miners reassembled one hour earlier than the opera- tors and had under discussion the questions of non-union made cigars, and the importation of seven car loads of negroes to Cartersville where miners were being ejected from their homes. A committee • was chosen to visit Governor Tanner for the purpose of explaining to him the true situation at Cartersville, but on arrival at his office found out that the Governor had gone to the camp and they were unable to see him. The operators . having returned joint business was again taken up. Mr. Lukens made a motion to hear from the miners in regard to the price in the Fourth District. Secretary Scroggs read a resolution outlining the position of the operators on the pending questions as follows: Adopted at a meeting of Illinois Coal Operators’ Associa- tion, May 19. Resolved, That the executive committee is hereby author- ized to meet the executive committee of the United Mine Workers of Illinois and state that the operators of Illinois stand by the contract made in Springfield, February 24, 1898, as incorporated in the state agreement made in Chicago, March 14, 1898 ; that under the 12th clause of said agreement the machine mining rates for Illinois should be in accordance with the resolution introduced by the operators at the joint meeting held in Chicago, May 10 and 11, viz. : Resolved, That the machine mining rate for all districts of Illinois shall be 50 per cent of the pick rate, plus 3 cents for shooting, loading and timbering, after all classes of machines ; the tonnage price of punching machines to be % of the pick rate; chain machine^ to.be operated by the day at $2,35 and 578 United Mine Workers of America $2.11 for runner and helper, respectively; entry work, break- throughs and all narrow work to be on the basis of 28 cents per ton in the Danville district throughout the state, it being understood that where no narrow work price has been paid heretofore, those same conditions shall continue. Resolved, That the executive committee be instructed to demand the establishment of machine prices in each district of Illinois, which shall bear the same relation to pick mining prices in that district that the prices of machine mining in Danville district bear to pick mining in the Danville district. This brought out a warm discussion from both miners and operators. After the discussion, continuing about one hour, the following motion was made by Kane, miner: That this joint convention now adjourn. Motion with- drawn. The operators then withdrew for the purpose of consulting with each other. After half an hour the operators returned and reported that they had made no headway towards agreeing on the questions at issue. It was then decided to have those operators present their grievances who had not yet done so. Mr. Wells, the representative of the Mt. Vernon Coal Co., stated they could no more ship coal to Chicago than they could to the Philippine Islands. They could not ship coal to St. Louis on account of excessive freight rates. Their trade was principally with the railroads. Meeting competition from Indiana and Kentucky. Jas. Taylor, of the Peoria district, stated that his mine was not working, but he was in favor of standing by the Chicago agreement no matter what the result may be, and when the next interstate meeting takes place, all those differences may be fixed up and a genuine competitive price be adopted. Moved that we adjourn to 7 this evening, and give one hour and a half to hearing grievances; then meet in separate ses- sion and instruct executive committees what action to take, whose decision shall be final. Springfield, May 21, 1898. Convention met pursuant to adjournment. Secretary Ryan reported the result of the meeting of the District 12 Joint Conference 579 executive committee held last night to be as follows: The miners and operators voted to reaffirm the Chicago agreement on pick mining and disagreed on the machine scale, the opera- tors claiming the Danville price, and the miners holding out for a uniform 7-cent differential. The regular order of business was then laid on the table. Moved to allow Belleville operators the privilege of laying a grievance before this convention and give them fifteen min- utes to present their case. Mr. Crabb, operating a hand mine at Staunton, said he desired the convention to remove the restriction from his mine placed there by the sub-district. Mr. Moorshead presented his‘ grievance in regard to the division of money earned by “groups” who follow machines at his Glen Carbon mine, and other petty matters which cause considerable trouble of a local nature which could easily be settled by referring to his office. The report of grievance committee was then read and dis- posed of as follows : The committee who waited on the Governor made their report, and a vote of thanks was tendered to Governor Tanner for his action. Convention ad j ourned. Convention met pursuant to adjournment. Resolution thanking General Bradley for his valuable services in behalf of his miners. Carried. The grievances presented by Operator Moorshead were brought up and Vice-President Mitchell took the floor and drew the attention of the miners to the great danger of creat- ing trouble and closing down the mines for trivial causes. He called attention to the condition of the coal trade and the effect of West Virginia coal being mined so cheap, that it is driving Illinois and other coal out of the Chicago market. He also urged in ringing terms the great necessity of using caution and conservatism in conducting the business of the organ- ization, that the disruption of the union meant less for them than they ever had and the maintenance of the union means in the near future better wages and better conditions. Motion that the Glen Carbon delegates with President 580 United Mine Workers of America Green and Vice-President Hefti, with National Vice-President Mitchell withdraw to the ante-room and draw up some plan to cover the division of earnings after machines. Carried. The system in vogue at the Crab mine at Belleville, in re- gard to yardage, was taken up. In order to settle the matter the delegates from Crab mine were added to the committee appointed to act on the Moorshead matter. Motion, that we connect ourselves with the State Federa- tion of Labor. Carried. Motion to elect five delegates to Federation of Labor con- vention in Decatur next September. Carried. Boston, Craw'- ford, Ryan, Hefti and Cartwright duly elected delegates to labor convention. The following committee was appointed to take up and settle the shearing machine and air drill question; Pascoe, Manuel, and Green. The following reports were adopted as read: The following shall apply to Madison mines at Glen Car- bon : All miners shall shoot and load their own coal, provided they are competent to do so. All men not competent to do such work shall be furnished a shooter and timberman. The company to be the judge as to who shall do the shooting and timbering for such men who are not competent. The price for such work shall be: Shooting, 5^2 cents per ton; timbering, 41/2 cents per ton; loading, 14 cents per ton ; machine run, 5 cents per ton ; machine help, 4 cents per ton. Total, 33 cents per ton. We, your committee, beg leave to submit to you the fol- lowing : That the restriction now in vogue at Crab mine No. 1, Staunton, 111., be lifted on entry work, provided said com- pany will narrow down its entries and pay district yardage and that said work be divided between the miners at said mine in case of slack work. Lifting of restriction shall not apply to room work. Committee — John Green, President. Wm. Hefti, Vice-President. Al. Neutzling, John Mitchell, National Vice-President. The convention then adjourned sine die. Indiana Block Coal Proceedings 581 INDIANA BLOCK COAL PROCEEDINGS. Brazil, Indiana, June 7, 1898. The miners of the Eighth district. United Mine Workers of America, met in Roberts Hall in this city, yesterday, the 7th, and were called to order by President Sam Anderson. The first business in order was the appointment of a com- mittee on credentials, the followjng being selected: Peter Flemming, James Alsap, and John Davis. The credentials committee reported 25 delegates present, representing 19 locals with a total membership of 2,437. The call for the convention was read, after which G. H. Dodge, who was appointed by the district board to audit the district books from January 1st, 1898, to May 1st, 1898, made an itemized statement to the convention of the receipts for the five months to be $817.44; expenditures for the same period, $768.52; leaving a balance in the treasury of $48.92. The president read his annual report for the year ending May 31, 1898, making many good recommendations and changes in our by-laws. The following committees were appointed : On Constitution — James Cantwell, Andrew Spears, Albert Keller. On Resolutions — George George, James Feathers, Mungo Penman. On Grievances — Jerre Coakley, John Evans, Elmer Brown. On Rules — Wm. Treager, Ed. Tolson. The meeting adjourned. Afternoon session called to order by the president. On motion the following Committee on By-Laws was ap- pointed: Harry Wright, E. Strain, Wm. Wilson. The report of the Committee on Rules was then adopted. Officers elected: For President, Roberts; Vice-President, S. Boskill ; Secretary, Barney Navin ; Treasurer, Wm. Thomp- son ; Members of Board, Ferguson and Feathers. The motion that each checkweighman take the length and width of screens, distance between bars, pitch of screen and also state whether there are any obstructions, and if they have any support, carried. The following resolutions were adopted : 582 United Mine Workers of America That we abolish all contract work in and about the mines. That when opening a new mine where the main entries are far enough we turn cross entries. That company, if de- sirous of putting their entries ahead, put three shifts on, and that room men get equal work with entries. That when rooms are started in a mine they shall work when the entries work, and the entries shall be idle when the rooms are idle. That no member of our organization working in a machine mine shall load coal out oi rooms or entries below thirteen feet wide, unless he is paid extra for the same. Amended that coal loaded out of narrow work shall be 44% cents per ton. Report of Committee on Constitution agreed to as follows : Article 2, Section 1, amended to include Vice-President, and increase the board to six members. Article 3, Section 1, be amended to read after the word “cause” in line eight, “with consent of the board.” Section 7, The Executive Board shall appoint one of their members to represent them in convention with a vote and a voice. Article 5, Section 1, be amended to read the first Tuesday in March instead of June. The word fractional major to be inserted. That delegates to the convention use their infiuence to get the miners to stop purchasing their supplies at the company stores, and by filling that part of their agreement it will in- crease the circulation of lawful money in the country, and do away with what is called the credit system. That we favor the check-off system for checkweighmen’s wages and dues for organizations. Article 5, Section 2, be amended to read “the President and Secretary shall have the power to call all meetings of the board or a delegate meeting whenever they deem it neces- sary. All members of the board shall attend all conventions.” Article 2 — Removal of Officers — Any officer suspended by the Executive Board may be expelled by a two-thirds vote of the locals of the association. The Executive Board and suspended officer or officers shall each present a statement of the case to each local, upon receipt of which the locals sliall, at their first regular meeting, vote by ballot, upon expulsion or reinstatement, if not suspended. The Vice-President or Secretary, as the case may be, shall immediately declare the result to the locals and Executive Board. This constitution shall not be altered or amended except at an annual convention. Article 6, Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4, be amended to read “S2 and expenses.” Indiana Block Coal Proceedings 583 Part of report of Committee on Rules : Section 4 be stricken out ; insprt that the working hours of this district be from 7 a. m. to 12 m. and 12 :30 p. m. to 3 :30 p. m. Time to go down the mine, 6 :30. Motion, that dues checked off at the mines be turned over to the local that person belongs to. Carried. Adjourned. NIGHT SESSION. Moved that it shall be the duty of the Executive Board to demand the resignation of any officer who is proved to the satisfaction of a majority of the board to be guilty of in- ability, neglect of duty or malfeasance while in office, or who is incapable through the use of intoxicants to perform his duty to the association, and if he should refuse to resign, he shall be suspended until the case be submitted to the locals and acted upon by them. Report of Committee on Rules continued and adopted : Rule 1 — Any member of any lodge residing within a mile of his local shall attend at least two meetings per month, and failure to do the same without a favorable excuse shall be fined for the first offense 5 cents, second 10 cents. Rule 2 — That it shall be the duty of the mine boss to do all measuring on the 15th, or the first working day after the 15th, and the last day of each month, or the first day after the last of each month. Rule 3 — We recommend that in pick mines the bottom shall not be farther away from the face than six feet. Rule 4 — That in case the company fails to keep the bot- tom within six feet of the face, it shall be the duty of the bank committee to see that it is properly attended to. Rule 5 — That these rules are subject to amendment at any regular or special convention. Rule 6 — That the bottom in the machine mines shall not be kept more than three feet from the face. That all resolutions offered to and passed by the conven- tion become a part of the rules and by-laws of this district. That the companies take all tops and bottoms in room. That the above resolutions shall go into effect on the first day of July. That the date for taking up working cards shall be the first working day of each month, or the first day the mine works after the first. 584 United Mine Workers of America The following resolution was offered from Clay City; The Briar Hill Coal Company, of Clay City, has established the system of paying their miners in checks, which put the miners to a great deal of inconvenience. They never receive any statement of their accounts. We, your committee on grievances recommend that the district secretary write the company that they must pay their employes in lawful money. Resolution adopted. On motion the retiring officers were given a vote of thanks for their services to the organization. The newly elected officers were installed in their offices. After a few remarks from the newly elected board and the retiring board the meeting adjourned. Attest: Barney Navin, Secretary. DENNIS H. SULLIVAN’S TROUBLES. Coshocton, Ohio, June 11, 1898. After relating his troubles over the strike at the Nicholson mine, Dennis consoles himself with a poetic effusion. He says, “I was called to Conesville on June 3 to settle a misunder- standing on the turning of wing rooms. While there I was well treated by the mine committee and others, to which I return my sincere thanks. “The strike at the Nicholson coal mine south of Cambridge, on the C. and M. R. R., is still on. I am told that they have 15 or 20 men at work. They, I am informed, claim to be union men. Still they are working without an organization, or even a checkweighman on the tipple. “Myself and the rest of the sub-district officers have labored hard to make a settlement and, finding it impossible, we concluded to place it in the hands of our state officers. This mine is owned and operated by that fearless advocate of free silver, Gen. Warner, a man who told the workingmen of Coshocton long ago in my hearing how sorry he was for them and how much he loved them. If the working people of this country were compelled to accept Gen. Warner for their master they would often repeat the following lines : Ohio Sub-District 2 Convention 585 “ ‘There is a world where souls are free, Where tyrants taint not nature’s bliss; If death that world’s bright opening be 0, who wotdd live a slave like this V ” D. H. Sullivan, Sub-district President. PROCEEDINGS— SUB-DISTRICT 2 OF DISTRICT 6. Wellston, Ohio, June 14, 1898. Convention called to order at 9 :30 a. m., with President McCullough in the chair. Appointment of committees follow : On credentials, E. Thompson, John Farley, John Lanthorn; on auditing, Lewis Harmon, Jacob Extine, Isaac Shotts ; on rules and order of business, Adam McLean, E. Luster, B. Smith; on griev- ances, E. Thompson, John Farley, John Lanthorn; and on resolutions, Adam McLean, E. Luster, B. Smith. Report of committee on credentials : We, your committee on credentials, find the following dele- ■ gates entitled to a seat in this convention : E. Luster, Lewis Harmon, Jacob Extine, Adam McLean, Thos. McCray, B. Smith, Isaac Shotts, E. Thompson, Samuel Sumate, S. Chris- tian, John Lanthorn, John Farley, Thos. Cole. Report of com- mittee accepted and delegates seated. President McCullough, Vice-President Robinson and Board Members McLean and Collard then made a brief statement of their work during the quarter. The following resolutions were reported and adopted ; Resolved, That local officers use their best judgment in collecting initiation fee, but under no consideration shall a man become a full member or receive a transfer card until he pays the full amount of the initiation fee and all dues and assessments. Be it further Resolved, That where any man refuses to pay his initia- tion fee the men of the local refuse to work with him. Resolved, That whereas it has come to the knowledge of this convention that some operators are not living up to the Chicago agreement in regard to the eight-hour workday and the screen law, we therefore' insist that local committees and officers see that the operators provide screens as provided for in the Chicago agreement, and the eight-hour day be en- forced at each local. 586 United Mine Workers of America The hour of noon having arrived, the convention ad- journed. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention reconvened at 1 p. m., with President Mc- Cullough in the chair. Report of auditing committee : Receipts for quarter, $66.56 ; indebtedness March 15, 1898, $45.98; expense for quarter, $104.00; total, $149.98. Money paid out during quarter, $36.38 ; money in treasuiy June 14, 1898, $30.18; indebtedness unprovided for of $83.42. Received from the Central Relief Committee, $47.01 ; re- ceived from District 6, $75.00. Total disbursements, $122,01; leaving on hand $2.00. Report of committee accepted. Moved and adopted that the next convention be held in Wellston. Moved and adopted that the convention tender Mr. Pirring a vote of thanks for the use of this hall. There being no further business the convention adjourned to meet in Wellston on the second Tuesday in September. E. S. McCullough, President. Wm. Fennell, Jr., Secretary. ALABAMA MINERS’ CONVENTION. Birmingham, Alabama, June 20, 1898. Pursuant to call, the miners’ state convention was called to order Monday morning at 9 o’clock at Clerk’s Hall by Presi- dent Wm. R. Fairley. The call for the meeting was read by Secretary John Kelly, of Blocton. The first order of business was to select state convention officers, which resulted in the election of W. R. Fairley, chair- man, James Haywood, secretary, S. L. Brooks, assistant secre- tary. Following committee on credentials was then elected : Messrs. Frank Fournier, Fleck Brewis, A. H. Gentry, R. Walker and Ranee Smith. Alabama Miners in Convention 587 Motion that Brother Latimer, of Belle Ellen, be allowed a seat in the convention, carried. Adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order promptly at 1 o’clock. The committee on credentials reported the following dele- gates present: Helena — J. S. Thompson; Blue Creek — C. M. Coker, Geo. McDaniels, P. R. Murray, T. H. Housed, Ranee Smith, Cap Clemo, Pink White, G. N. Mosely, J. L. Cord, W. S. Swiney ; Sloss Mines — Eleck Brewis, L. C. McKinzie ; Card- iff — Dan Webster, Geo. Washington, Geo. Hinnihil, Primus Hutcheson; West Pratt — John Lamont, J. J. Ray, Archie Woods, Jerry Gorth, A. Wilson; Pratts— Tom Tinney, Frank Fournier, Geo. Barbour, A. J. Evans, Will Kilpatrick, James Holmes, C. W. Cain, H. Haywood, S. L. Brooks ; Belle Ellen— J. Heywood, A. J. Frostenburg, Ed Wood, Geo. Barker, Geo. Leayer, Chas. Slatton; Mabel Mines — T. J. McKenzie; Har- grove — I. S. Owens, Jake Phillips, E. Kolan, Wess Blakely; Blossburg Slope — James Johnson, W. J. McMurran, H. Crumps; Blocton — Will Hann, Wm. McGinnis, A. H. Watson, Jno. Kelly, A. H. Gentry, David Johnson, Fred Francher, Pampie Zanetti, Ive Holder, Wash Penned, West Clendon, S. P. Cheatham, D. H. Wilson, R. L. Walker, Watt Griffin, W. S. Mathews, S. E. Banks. Report of committee on credentials was accepted. Motion that a committee be elected to draft a scale of prices to be submitted to the convention was carried. The following committee on scale and prices was elected : Eleck Brewis, J. M. Gorth, Geo. Barbour, J. L. Clemo, John Kelly, J. S. Thompson, I. S. Owen, M. J. McMurran, Geo. Leayer, T. J. McKenzie. Motion to adjourn until Tuesday morning was carried. Convention called to order at 9 o’clock by President Fair- ley. Report of committee on resolutions : Motion that speakers be allowed ten minutes and that they be not allowed to speak but once on any question, was carried. Resolutions were adopted as follows : 588 United Mine Workers of America I. That all business transacted in this convention shall be binding on all parties taking action therein ; That we demand 42i^ cents per ton at Pratt, Blocton, West Pratt and at Blue Creek 37i/^ cents ; at Sloss Mines, 421/2 cents ; at Belle Ellen, 42% cents ; at Hargrove, 42% cents, at Helena, 45 cents, retaining the present sliding scale with the change that basis be on market price of all grades of iron. Room turning at Pratts, $3 for double rooms, $1.50 single rooms; Blocton, $3; West Pratt, double, $3, single, $1.50; Blue Creek, Belle Ellen, $3 ; Hargrove, $3 ; Sloss, double rooms, $3, single $1.50; Helena, $3. Crosscuts or break-throughs shall be air course prices. That scales be placed on tipples and coal be weighed be- fore being dumped. All docking for dirt shall be left as a local matter. That we have an idle day each month to do business that is of interest to ourselves, each camp selecting the day to suit itself. II. That we shall have a regular pay day not later than the 20th of each month. That all day labor shall be advanced in proportion to the price of mining, with the exception of car repairer and black- smith, and they are to be governed by Pratt mines prices. That all narrow and dead work be advanced proportion- ately to the advance in prices. That the company retain 25 cents per month from all who come under the scale of prices as committee expenses and turn the same over to properly authorized parties, who shall re- ceive it. That specifications not mentioned in this contract be gov- erned as in the past. III. Be it resolved, that we recommend that agents of the Labor Advocate and the United Mine Workers Journal be allowed to canvass the mine and that the company allow them to collect through the office. That there be no discrimination between white and colored. Where coal is not of sufficient height in rooms that the company pay for same as case may be where car or mule has to travel. That all material for track, props and lumber be placed where they ought to be used. Alabama Miners in Convention 589 That ail rocks or slate that is loaded or unloaded in th6 mines or removed by miners, should be paid for at Blue Creek. IV. Be it resolved, That we do recommend to this convention that each mining camp have the authority to select its own doctor, and that the miners have the privilege of voluntarily signing doctor’s list. That this convention use its utmost endeavor to secure any man his work that may be victimized by serving on com- mittee. All of which is respectfully submitted. Eleck Brevvis, • Geo. Barbour, W. J. McMurran, J. L. Clemo, John Kelly, J. S. Owens, J. M. Gorth, J. Thompson, Geo. Leayer. On motion, report of committee was received and commit- tee discharged. Motion that no delegate be allowed to speak but once on any subject, and that ten minutes be allowed each speaker. Carried. The resolutions were adopted as read. Motion that the chairman of each delegation wait on the officials of the company and request them to meet the delegates in convention at 10 o’clock, and the convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY MORNING. The convention was called to order by President Fairley at 9 o’clock. The report of the special committee to wait on the com- panies was received conveying the fact that the officials of said companies would visit the convention at 10 o’clock. Motions prevailed, that a committee be appointed to find out prices of iron, and Messrs. Frank Fournier, Eleck Brewis, I. S. Owens, J. L. Clemo, S. L. Brooks, Ranee Smith and John Kelly were selected ; 590 United Mine Workers of America That scale committee, with a delegate from each place and the chairman added, carry on the discusison with the company representatives as to scale; And that each delegation be allowed to select its own man for that purpose. The following officials of the companies arrived at the con- vention hall at 10 o’clock; General Manager McCormack and Chief Engineer Ramsay representing the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company, and Messrs. Sol Haas and Priestly Toulman of the Sloss Iron and Steel Company. No agreement being reached in the convention, the scale committee was empowered to confer with the company offi- cials and report back to the convention. Committee retired and on returning at the hour specified reported that President Haas had refused the convention an audience, but would receive a committee from his own em- ployes, with the request that the committee that signed the contract with him a year ago be present. Committee that waited on Tennessee Coal, Iron and Rail- road Company reported that Mr. McCormack would not enter- tain proposition of 5 cents advance in scale. The convention then adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING. The meeting was called to order by President Fairley at 8 o’clock. The committee’s report of yesterday was received and same committee ordered to wait on the companies at 10 o’clock. The meeting adjourned to 12 o’clock noon, to await the report of the committee. The convention reassembled and received the report, which was in substance as follows : G. B. McCormack, general manager of Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company, made a proposition to give 2i/2 cents per ton advance on present prices, making the minimum basis 40 cents per ton and all dead work affected by. the scale be advanced 61/4 cents, based on the entire sales of pig iron in the Alabama division of the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Rail- road Company. Alabama Joint Agreement 591 A motion then prevailed that delegates return to their homes, report to their constituents and reassemble Monday morning at 9 o’clock, at Clerk’s Hall, Birmingham, Ala. W. R. Fairley, President. J. Heywood, Secretary. LOCAL CONTRACT DISTRICT 20. BETWEEN THE TENNESSEE COAL, IRON AND RAILROAD COMPANY AND ITS BLOCTON MINERS. Birmingham, Ala., June 30, 1898. The Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company and the duly authorized representatives of the miners from Blocton have this day agreed upon the following contract from July 1, 1898, until June 30, 1899: The price of mining to be a minimum of 40 cents per ton when all grades of pig iron net the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company $7.10 or less f. o. b. cars at the furnaces in Alabama, and for every advance of 50 cents per ton in the net price received for all grades of iron there shall be an ad- vance of 21/^ cents per ton in the price. of mining, until the net price received for all grades of iron reaches $9.10 per ton, when the price of mining would be 50 cents per ton. Thereafter the price of mining shall advance 21/2 cents for each dollar advance in the net price received for all grades of iron. In the' big seam at Blocton, when the size of the coal is reduced to below four feet, there shall be an advance of 21/2 cents in the price of mining, and if the coal is reduced below three feet the price of mining shall advance 5 cents above the scale in that seam. The coal is to be weighed during the continuance of this contract at all mines where it is now being weighed and chec- weighmen are to be allowed as in the past. The price of iron to be determined as follows : The miners to appoint one or more duly authorized representatives to act for them, and such representative or representatives to meet with the representative or representatives of the com- pany not later than the 5th day of each month, and at such meeting to examine all books, sale memoranda or other evi- dence in the possession of the company as might show the actual average price at which the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company sold all grades of iron in the previous month, and such pric§ when determined, to be announced by 592 United Mine Workers of America the representatives to both the miners and the company, and to be binding upon both. If the representatives of the miners and the company fail to agree as to what was the selling price of all grades of iron for any month, then they are to agree upon and call in an- other person, who is not a miner or an employe of the com- pany, who shall, upon investigation of the actual sales made, determine the price, and such determination shall be bind- ing upon both parties to this contract. The expenses of the representative or representatives of the miners and others governed by the scale to be regulated and paid by them. Such expense to be prorated by the com- mittee at so much per miner, and others governed by the scale, whose name appears on the roll, and to be collected by the company and turned over to the committee. Dead work and day labor in mines and house rent of miners and mine laborers and powder to be governed by the scale as furnished each party. Mining rules to be the same as at present. No discrimination is to be made in the distribution of work against the colored miners, but all competent colored men are to have an equal chance at work. The term “all grades of pig iron” means all grades except silver gray and white. TENNESSEE COAL, IRON AND RAILROAD CO., By G. B. McCormack General Manager. John Kelley. A. H. Gentry. Veto Waney. D. H. Wilson. D. A. Johnston. W. D. McGinnis. Geo. Young. W. J. Hand. H. Scott. Approved: W. R. Fairley, President District 20, United Mine Workers of America. NATIONAL ORGANIZER W. C. SCOTT. In June, 1898, National Organizer W. C. Scott being on duty for the United Mine Workers in the West Virginia coal field, it was thought advisable to try and check the sale of coal that was being mined in West Virginia and sold in the West Virginia Coal a Disturbing Factor 593 Toledo and Detroit markets, because of the low rates paid to the miners there and the inability to organize them into local unions. In speaking of Mr. Scott’s work as a commissioner sent there for the purpose named, the “Toledo Blade” furnished the following: (Anent the reception tendered Mr. Scott by the Wholesale and Retail Dealers’ convention on board of the steamer City of Toledo, the Toledo Daily Blade of Wednesday, June 15, published the following:) It would be a difficult matter to convince those who at- tended the Wholesale and Retail Coal Dealers’ convention on board the City of Toledo yesterday that the country is going to the eternal bowwow just at present. Never in the history of the trade was there such cordial feeling displayed between competitive coal dealers and operators, and the reception that W. C. Scott, general organizer of the United Mine Workers, received was like a Utopian dream. Just think of an ac- credited representative of the miners’ union as an invited guest of their operators, and sitting in executive session with the coal dealers! But this was not the only honor that was showered upon Mr. Scott. He was one of the speakers of the occasion, and his speech was applauded as loudly as any of the operators or dealers. Mr. Scott made an eloquent and thoughtful appeal to the operators and dealers in behalf of the miners. He said in substance: ‘This is the first time in my life that I have had the honor of being a guest on such an occasion, and I want to assure you that I esteem it no mean honor to address this representative body of coal dealers and operators of Ohio. As an exponent of organization I would not be true to the principles which I am advocating if I we? e not in sympathy with your association. We have no love for rate cutters or trade demolishers. We recognize that this association has already done much to better the condition of the miners, not only in Ohio, but in other states. I believe that as I stand here today I stand among my friends, and say from the bottom of my heart, God speed you in your effort to strengthen your organization. We are fully aware that if you do not make money we can not, and that capital has rights as well as labor. ‘I want to call your attention to one thing today. You are acquainted with all the details of how the uniform scale was agreed to in Chicago. Now, all of the operators, except those in West Virginia are paying the agreed scale. The West Vir- ginia operators not only refused to pay this scale but are compelling the miners to mine coal at lower rates than I be- 594 United Mine Workers of America lieve the Ohio operators, if they had the power, would ask the miners in your fields to work. This is not only an injury to the miners, but if allowed to continue will demoralize this market. This is not the natural market for West Virginia coal. It only gains an entrance to this market by the starva- tion wages that the operators pay in the West Virginia district. It seems to me that we all have a common cause against West Virginia coal. The miner believes that he has, and I am sent to you and the consumer to plead for him. I ask your careful consideration of these things.’ NATIONAL AUDITOR’S REPORT. July 9, 1898. Report of auditing committee for six months ending June 30, 1898 : We, your auditors, have carefully examined the books of Secretary-Treasurer Pearce and find them correct, as follows : Receipts. Balance in treasury January 1, 1898 $10,812.18 Receipts taxes since January 1, 1898 18,788.16 Receipts for supplies since January 1, 1898 2,376.81 Receipts U. M. W. Journal since January 1, 1898 1,770.41 Receipts, miscellaneous, since January 1, 1898 802.30 Total .$34,549.86 Expenditures. Officers’ salaries and expenses $9,694.44 Supplies 3.467.25 Office expenses 834.16 Telegraph, post and express 851.23 Miscellaneous 1,061.95 Total $15,909.03 Balance in treasury June 30, 1898 $18,640.83 We also desire to say to our constituents we are highly pleased with the systematic method by which Brother Pearce has kept his accounts, and that our work has been greatly facilitated thereby. The members of the craft will see by the above statement that since the last report our organization has made very substantial progress, both numerically and financially, and we attribute this success largely to the noble efforts, financial and executive ability of oUr present national officers. Fred Powell, Emanuel Dixon, Committee. Central Pennsylvania Wage Scale 595 Statement of the Capital National Bank: Indianapolis, July 9, 1898. To whom it may concern : This is to certify that W. C. Pearce had on deposit in this bank on June 30, 1898, the sum of $18,640.83. Very respectfully, W. B. Wilson, President. CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA WAGE SCALE. On July 13, 1898 delegates from the Central Pennsylvania field held a convention at Altoona, with president George Harris in the chair and James W. Kilduff, secretary. At this convention the ■ resignation of John T. Cline, as Vice-President, was accepted and James Napier, a member of the executive board, was elected to fill the position, and G. W. Westhoven was elected as a member of the executive board. During the proceedings, a scale of prices was formulated for mining, day wages, and hours of labor, the same to take effect July 20 with the understanding that in case of refusal on the part of the operators to meet the demands made by July 28 work would be suspended at all mines refusing to sign the wage scale adopted. The scale made by the miners was said to be based on a general increase of 10 per cent, or more, in all branches of mining, and because the machine had begun to play such a prominent part in coal mining the miners thought it advis- able to make a stand for a living wage. General price shall be 45 cents per ton. Work now being paid more than 40 cents shall be advanced in proportion. Machine mining, Harrison, Jefferson or Sullivan: Under- cutting in rooms, 10 cents; undercutting in headings, 11 cents; loading in rooms, 24 cents; loading in headings, 26 cents. Jeffrey’s link belt, Morgan and Gardner, or any other chain machine: Undercutting in rooms, 8 cents; undercutting in headings, 9 cents; loading in rooms, 26 cents; loading in headings, 28 cents. Cutting and loading in break through between the head- ings and between rooms and in turnings shall be paid heading 596 United Mine Workers of America prices. All prices now being paid more than 22 cents for loading and 6 cents for undercutting, shall be advanced in pro- portion. The foregoing prices are for net ton, run of mine. DEAD WORK SCALE. Clay veins in rooms, six inches or less, 90 cents ; clay veins six inches or more, per foot, $1.82; clay veins at an angle across room, per yard, 45 cents ; cutting clay veins in heading, 90 cents; lifting bottom in rooms, 25 cents; room turning, neck not to exceed seven yards, $2.50; headings, per yard, $1.00; break-throughs, 95 cents; miners’ day wages, $2.25; tracklayers, per day, $1.90; tracklayers’ helpers, $1.80; trap- pers, 75 cents; bottom cagers, $1.80; drivers, $1.80; trip riders per day, $1.80; water haulers per day, $1.80; timber- men, per day, $1.90; pipe men for air plant, $1.85; all other inside labor, $1.80. The hours for day labor for the above rates at the mines shall be from 7 a. m. till 12 noon; one hour for dinner, and from 1 p. m. till 4 p. m. If overtime is worked, increased wages shall be paid in proportion to the amount of overtime. PITTSBURG MINERS’ SPECIAL CONVENTION. A special miners’ convention was held at Pittsburg, Penn- sylvania, August 1st, 1898, at which the following delegates participated. Vice-President Wm. Dodds called the meeting to order, and Wm. Warner occupied his position as secretary. The credentials committee reported the following delegates entitled to seats: Chas. Shaw, John Dv^er, John Baumiller, Martin Devine, Wm. Gay, Samuel King, Andrew Colvin, Jas. Seltzer, Fred Howcraft, Harry Savage, Robt. Wright, IMat- thew O’Rourke, Chris. Smith, John Blume, Fred Kulow, Adam Williams, Daniel Shields, P. J. Hunt, Chas. Williams, Jacob Fish, Henry Walker, Jos. McGill, Jas. Best. Sam Allen, Geo. Mathews, William Gribbon, Andrew Mitchell, Wm. Leah, John Shephard, W. H. Smith, Frank Jordan, Barney Douds, Jerry Nuttal, David Reese, Nick Ehl, Dobson Young, Jas. O’Neil, Richard Mulvaney, A1 Davis, Jas. Watchorn, A. D. Stevens, Wm. E. Graham, Enoch Jones. Moved and seconded that the report be accepted as read. Carried. Convention adjourned. Special' Convention District 5, 1898 597 AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention convened at 1:10 p. m. President Dolan proceeded to address the convention upon the objects of the calling of the convention, which he stated was that the Chicago agreement was not- being enforced and that conditions were such that this convention was called for that purpose. Secretary Warner next submitted the following financial report : Report of Secretary -Treasurer for six months ending June 30, 1898 : Mr. President and Delegates of the Convention: I herewith submit the following financial report for the six months ending June 30, 1898: Amount in treasury Jan- uary 1st, $634.17 ; amount of per capita tax received for six months, $2,159.29; received from National, $200.00; received from 5 cent levy for testing run-of-mine law, $414.85; re- ceived from extra month’s tax, $208.84; making a total in- come, $3,617.15. Total expenditures, $3,616.78; leaving a bal- ance of 37 cents. I expect during the session of the convention to furnish each delegate with a printed, itemized statement of the full report. I herewith submit the following summarized statements of our indebtedness. To W. J. Brennan, for costs of court cases and services of the appeal of the run-of-mine law to the Supreme Court, $505.31 ; to Divine & Co. for printing, $58.20 ; to J. J. Weldon, $92.77 ; to C. D. & P. Tel. Co., $37.50 ; to A. M. Martin, $15.00; office rent, $56.66; office furniture, $30.00; making a total of $795.14. National President Ratchford delivered an address de- scribing conditions and giving valuable advice. After President Ratchford’s address Henry Walker was given permission to explain the conditions in the Third Pool. Chairman of the resolution committee announced that the committee would meet at 7 p. m. in the district office. The auditing committee reported the following: We, the auditors, elected to esxamine the books and ac- counts of District No. 5, United Mine Workers of America, have attended to our duty and report that we have found the 598 United Mine Workers of America accounts in perfectly good shape and correct, as per above the secretary’s report. (Signed) (Thomas Kirsop, Jr.,) Mathew Kerrigan, Auditors. Moved and seconded that the report of the auditing com- mittee be accepted. Carried. Convention adjourned. At the second day’s session a series of resolutions were adopted on the enforcement of the agreement entered into at Chicago where a scale of prices had been made to govern the Pittsburg district but was not being paid. Quite a number of grievances were considered and acted upon tending to remove some of the causes that were calcu- lated to increase the many difficulties they were called upon to meet. John W. Hayes, of the Knights of Labor, John Flannery, and W. W. Plaster were roundly denounced together with their followers, as being the agents of W. P. DeArmitt, cre- ated by him for the purpose of destroying the Chicago agree- ment. President Ratchford’s application for appointment as a member of the Industrial Commission was indorsed, and the convention adjourned. CHAPTER XXVIII. REPORT AND JOINT AGREEMENT ON CHICAGO AND ALTON RAILROAD. Springfield, Illinois, August 17th, 1898. M. D. Ratchford, Esq., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir: — We, the undersigned committee, to whom was assigned the duty of investigating mining conditions along the Chicago & Alton track south of Springfield, do hereby report our findings. The conditions under which the investigation was con- ducted are covered in the following agreement, entered into at Indianapolis, August 8, 1898: District 12, Operators’ and Miners’ Report 599 ARTICLE OF AGREEMENT. Indianapolis, Ind., August 8th, 1898. WITNESSETH — We, the undersigned, operators and miners south of Springfield, Illinois, do hereby agree to leave the set- tlement of the mining price to be paid in said district, until April 1st next, to President M. D. Ratchford and the National Executive Board, or such members thereof as the national president may be able to send to make investigations in order to reach their determination. Such investigation to cover the different points of competition and the price arrived at to be a fair relative one; and that such price shall be reached not later than August 16th next. And we do further hereby agree to abide by the decision reached. Signed — On behalf of Operators: Chicago Virden Coal Company, F. W. Lukins, Manager. Virden Coal Company, C. H. Hurst, President. Carlinville Coal Company, W. H. Behrens, Secretary. Litchfield Mining and Power Company, A. G. Klinebeck, Receiver. On behalf of Miners: M. D. Ratchford, President. John M. Hunter. W. D. Ryan. Wood Marble. James Hall. Thos. Gallagher. Pete Owens. J. A. Murphy. Mr. Hugh Murray on behalf of the Coal Operators’ As- sociation of St. Louis; S. M. Dalzell, president of the Coal Operators’ Association of Illinois; J. A. Agee, of the Spring- field Coal Operators’ Association ; J. Smith Talley, president of the Indiana Operators’ Association, and John Green, presi- dent of the Belleville sub-district. United Mine Workers, pro- tested strongly against this committee acting on the case on the ground that they had no jurisdiction, they claiming the right to protest under the fifth clause of the Chicago agree- ment, which says that all internal differences shall be referred 600 United Mine Workers of America to the different districts for adjustment and claimed no authority is vested in the national organization to interfere in internal matters affecting prices or conditions. To substantiate their position they cited the fact that the State scale for Illinois was arranged and adopted at a joint meeting of miners and operators in this city during the month of February, 1898, and under the fifth clause of the Chicago agreement it could only be changed by a like joint conference. In answer to the above mentioned protests the board de- cided that there is nothing in the Chicago agreement whereby the national officials of the United Mine Workers of America surrendered their rights to adjust any differences that may come properly before them. To have done so would have placed the national organization in the ridiculous position of having no right or power to carry into effect the provisions of the national constitution, which authorizes the national offi- cials to take charge of such cases in order to bring about a settlement, when all other constitutional provisions have beei complied with. Many protests were filed by the miners fron different portions of the State, principally from the Spring- field district, against any reduction of the mining price in the district affected. The operators from the Chicago and Alton district in ask- ing for a reduced mining rate cite the following reasons : First. That 85 per cent, of their output is marketed in Chicago. Second. An excessive freight rate of 85 cents a ton to the Chicago market. Third. That 50 per cent, of their coal passes through the screen. Fourth. The fact that the selling price of lump coal in Chicago is $1.36i/4 a ton. Fifth. That they had formerly obtained from the miners $2.25 per keg for powder and the present price of $1.75 had added to the cost of producing coal. In answer to the first two propositions, we desire to say that there has been an abundance of evidence introduced which shows that other coal companies operating similar veins of coal shipping to the same markets, paying the regular scale Rebates on Coal Shipped to Chicago 601 of 40 cents a ton, located a greater distance from Chicago, shipping at published freight rates of 85 cents per ton, have been able to secure a greater volume of business than that of former years. We desire to note here that the average ad- vance in mining rates at the mine securing above mentioned business is 77 per cent, above rates paid prior to suspension of 1897. It clearly demonstrated by the evidence that freight rates on all large contracts, as well as railroad coal, was much less than 85 cents per ton and the same applied to coal de- livered at intermediate points between said Chicago and Alton mines and Chicago. Mr. Simpson, of the Consolidated Company, Mr. Moores- head, of the Madison, and other operators present stated that they had received rebates on coal shipped to Chicago on other coal-carrying roads, it having been clearly proven that the coal companies on competing lines are given a rebate from pub- lished freight rates, it is safe to presume that mines on the Chicago & Alton Railroad receive the same rebate. In fact, it has been admitted by the Chicago & Alton operators that they do not pay the full tariff rates on all their coal, but have refused to divulge the amount on which the full tariff rates are not paid. It is the opinion of this board that if the Chi- cago & Alton Railroad does not treat their patrons with the same consideration that competing roads do, this is no reason why the whole burden should be borne by the employes of said mines. In regard to the third proposition, viz., that 50 per cent, of the coal went through screens, it has been admitted by Mr. Lukins of the Chicago Virden Coal Company, that the screen used at this mine over which this coal passed was 12x16 feet, or 192 superficial feet in area, with li/^-inch diamond bar. In addition to this it was admitted that a device called a “spreader” was placed in the chute which distributed the coal over the entire screen, this to a great extent accounting for the unusual large amount of screenings. While other mines in this district did not produce the amount of screenings credited to the Chicago Virden Company, the screens in use were larger than that generally used in Illinois. We believe that 602 United Mine Workers of America other mines in that section of the State, worked under similar conditions, would produce a like amount of screenings. Fourth. “The fact that the selling price of coal in Chi- cago is $ 1 , 371/2 per ton.” In this connection we do not believe that the price stated by the Chicago & Alton operators is a safe criterion on which to base a mining price for that district. These prices are ac- counted for by the fact, well known to the coal trade, that large amounts of coal shipped to Chicago are often, during the dull season, sold at ruinous prices in order to save demur- rage. The following is an extract from written evidence in pos- session of this committee submitted by Hugh Murray, chair- man of the St. Louis Coal Association and G. N. Black, chair- . man of the Springfield Coal Association: “In our experience, $1.45 to $1.60 more correctly repre- sents the current selling price on coal from this district.” In regard to the fifth clause as above stated, we see no rea- son why the selling price of powder should be considered by this or any other board in determing a proper scale in that or any other district for mining coal. The fact that powder was sold in the Chicago & Alton district at $2.25 per keg and is now sold at the uniform price of $1.75 is no reason why they should get a reduced mining rate to make up for the reduction in powder. We believe the time has arrived when coal must be sold on its merits as coal and not on the market value of mine supplies. We desire to call your attention to one important fact which occurred at the meeting yesterdaj^ morning. During a controversy which was being carried on between the operators, Mr. J. C. Crabb, of Staunton, stated that Mr. Lukins had ap- proached him during this meeting and said substantially as follows : “Mr. Crabb, I can not see why you and other operators come to this meeting and attempt to prevent us from getting a reduction in our mining rates. Do you not know that if a reduction is secured in our district the same reduction will ultimately be secured throughout the whole southern field?” Mr. Lukins denied that he had been properly quoted by Convention, Fort Smith, Arkansas 603 Mr. Crabb, but admitted he had stated that the whole southern fields had been rated too high. In connection with this matter we also desire to call your attention to affidavits furnished by Mr. Murray and Mr. Agee for the purpose of proving that overtures had been made to them along the same lines and which we submit with the other printed evidence in this case. In conclusion, we desire to call attention to what we believe to have been the purpose of the Chicago interstate convention and the necessity of carrying out its effects religiously to the end that we may perpetuate indefinitely the present improved condition of the coal industry for both operators and miners. First. A more equal distribution of business among the different districts and a fair share of the profits to all of the coal operators. Second. A full share of work for all of the miners and an ' equal opportunity to earn living wages. In this connection, we draw attention to the fact that there are 853 mines of all kinds in this State, of which 310 are shipping mines. The annual production of all shipping mines is about 20,000,000 tons. In the district known as the Chicago & Alton sub-dis- trict, there are nine mines classed as shipping mines, and from the testimony of operators from the Chicago & Alton road it was shown that about 1,000,000 tons is produced an- nually by mines in this sub-district. This, we believe, clearly demonstrates the fact that this sub-district has enjoyed ad- vantages over their competitors. After a careful review of all the evidence submitted to this board we do not deem it wise to change the prices fixed for the Chicago & Alton sub-district and do so decide. Edward McKay, Chairman. W. D. Ryan, Secretary. J. H. Kennedy. John Mitchell, National Vice-President. Indorsed by: M. D. Ratchford, President, W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer. 604 United Mine Workers of America ARKANSAS -INDIAN TERRITORY CONVENTION. Fort Smith, Ark., October 7th, 1898. A convention of the miners of Arkansas and the Indian Territory, held October 7, 1898, for the purpose of uniting themselves with the United Mine Workers of America, was held in Turner’s Hall, Fort Smith, Arkansas. Delegates present; Huntington — Dan Bales, Sol Lodge, Wm. McClintic; Bonanza — S. F. Brackney, Joseph Pendleton, J. T, Lucas; Jenny Lind — Albert Struple, Frank Metzett; Cherry Vale, I. T. — John Mordue, James Rowe; Alderson — W. R. Howe, S. J. Johnson. Albert Struble was elected chairman, and J. T. Lucas sec- retary. Convention declared a recess. Convention called to order at 2 :30 p. m. Reading of report of committee on resolutions : Resolved, That we adopt the best feasible plan to organize the mines and mine laborers of these localities under one head for the best interests of labor, according to the best advice of this convention assembled. Jos. Pendleton, W. R. Howe, Dan Bales, Committee. The report of the committee was received. On motion, that we accept the United Mine Workers of America, and that the Indian Territory and Arkansas be made one district. Carried. The secretary was instructed to correspond with head- quarters of the United Mine Workers of America, informing them of the action taken by this convention ; also asking them to send an organizer to this part of the country. Motion, that this convention proceed to elect district officers and executive board. Convention adjourned. Convention called to order at 7 :30 p. m. by the chairman and the business of electing officers was then taken up. Officers elected: Albert Struble, president; John Mordue, vice-president; S. F. Brackney, secretary; Dan Bales, treas- Convention, Fort Smith, Arkansas 605 urer; executive board, ^ol Lodge, W. R. Howe, S. J. Johnson, Jos. Pendleton and Jas. Rowe. Motion, That the chair appoint a committee of three to draw up resolutions to be presented to the legislature of Ar- kansas for the benefit of the miners. Carried. Committee: J. T. Lucas, Jos. Pendlton and Sol Lodge. Resolutions adopted: That the next convention be held at South McAllister, I. T. ; also a copy of the proceedings of this convention be given to the papers of Fort Smith. That the price of initiation be one dollar, and that the delegates act as temporary organizers until regular organizers arrive. The delegates were assessed 25 cents each to defray ex- penses of convention. That the next convention be called for the second Monday in January, 1899 ; also a vote of thanks to the chairman and secretary for the manner in which they have conducted this convention. Motion to adjourn subject to call of the president. Carried. J. T. Lucas, Secretary. Late in September, 1898, the miners of Pana, Illinois, while contending for scale prices, were surrounded by incidents well calculated to disturb the mind, but with stockade conditions to shelter the men imported there to work in the mines, ac- companied by 100 deputies and a number of other negroes heavily armed, made the situation anything but inviting. On the night of September 28th, striking union coal miners and imported colored men engaged in a pitched battle in the main street of the city and several hundred shots were ex- changed, the negroes using Winchesters, and the miners shot- guns, rifles and revolvers, the result of which caused the death of several imported participants. With this warlike attitude in full view, business houses were closed, lights extinguished and the citizens generally sought their homes leaving the miners in full charge of the streets at midnight. At the end of this turmoil many of the negroes left on board the train at the expense of the miners’ union. 606 United Mine Workers of America The situation at Pana paved the way for like troubles at other parts of the State later on. The contest between the miners and operators at Pana and Virden, as well as at other places in Illinois, continued without any apparent change. Colored miners were coming into the State from Alabama daily, which increased the inten- ' sity of the situation to an alarming degree. What was known as the Alabama miners division of the “Afro-American Labor and Protective Association” became very much interested. A meeting was called at Birmingham and presided over by the president of the Association, R. L. Ruffin, at which the stand taken by the Pana miners was en- dorsed and resolutions adopted as follows: Resolved, That we deplore the conditions now prevailing at Pana, and that we condemn the action of the colored miners in going to Pana, remaining at Pana or participating in any manner to aid the operators in carrying out their tyrannical designs against labor. Resolved, That we use every effort to intercept the move- ment of negro miners from this section to Pana, and that we join our efforts and arguments with J. M. Hunter, W. R. Fair- ley and others to relieve Pana mines of all colored laborers carried there and retained there by reason of the strike. Resolved, That R. L. Ruffin, president of the “Afro-Ameri- can Labor and Protective Association,” is hereby authorized and requested to confer with all labor leaders and friends of labor as to the carrying out of this plan ; that a copy of these resolutions be sent to Presidents J. M. Hunter and W. R. Fair- ley and others, and that a conference be sought with President Hunter at the earliest possible date. The Illinois situation at Pana was afterwards enlarged upon at Virden, that terminated in riot and murder October 12, 1898. A description of the scenes portrayed is heart-rending in the extreme. . National Vice-President John Mitchell and Dis- trict Secretary W. D. Ryan were at Pana when the trouble at Virden occurred but arrived at Virden the same evening. Before leaving Pana Acting President Mitchell was ar- rested and placed under two hundred dollar bonds to answer to the charge of inciting tb riot, at the November term of court. THE BATTLE SCENE AT VIRDEN, ILLINOIS, OCTOBER 12, 1898 608 United Mine Workers of America On Thursday morning, October 13, the Virden miners were informed that a trainload of colored laborers would ar- rive at Virden and were advised to meet them on arrival, pre- pared with all peaceful methods to induce them not to go into the stockade to start work. When the train arrived at the old south mine, a distance from the mine owned by the Chicago Virden Coal Company, the hired guards employed by Lukens, the mine manager, opened fire on the union miners, while other guards concealed behind the stockade took deliberate aim, killing and maiming miners all around. Union miners, it was said, did not fire on the train until several shots had been fired from the train and a number of miners wounded. The following messages passed between President Ratch- ford, Acting President Mitchell and Secretary Ryan, anent the burial of the dead and the care of the wounded miners at Virden : October 13, 1898. John Mitchell, Virden, Illinois: Regret the sad occurence of yesterday. Wire me the num- ber of our men among the dead and wounded and other par- ticulars in haste. M. D. Ratchford. Indianapolis, Indiana, October, 13. M. D. Ratchford, 96 Diamond Street, Pittsburg: Seven union miners killed, eight wounded; four or five guards dead, same number wounded. Sent wounded to Spring- field Hospital, dead to their homes. All quiet. Soldiers in charge stockade. Orders from Governor allow no imported negroes to land. Will arrive at office Saturday or Sunday. John Mitchell. October 13, 1898. John Mitchell, Virden, Illinois: Message received. The union miners who fell in yester- day’s riot must have a decent burial. Make the necessary arrangements for same at expense of union if necessary ; also see to it that the wounded men are properly cared for and re- port to me by wire tomorrow at Massillon. M. D. Ratchford. JOHN R. TANNER GOVERNOR OF ILLINOIS, 1898 610 United Mine Workers of America Virden, Illinois, October 13. M. D. Ratchford : Message received. Many thanks. Well prepared for emergency, ample funds. Mitchell, Springfield. W. D. Ryan. THE LATTIMER, PA., MASSACRE. On February 1, 1898, Sheriff James Martin and his depu- ties were tried at Wilkes-Barre, Pa., for the murders of 19 men they had shot to death, and mercilessly wounded 40 others at the village of Lattimer near Hazleton, Pa., on the 10th day of September, 1897. The following verdict was rendered by the jury selected : That from the circumstances of the case and the evidence offered, the said Clement Platock and others came to their deaths by gunshot wounds on September 10, 1897, at the hands of Sheriff James Martin and his deputies, and in this we, the jury, do all agree, and we, Phil S. Boyle, Thomas T. Thomas, Barton Freas and Peter McKierman, of this jurj*, do further say that the said Clement Platock, with others, was marching peacefully and unarmed on the public highway ; that they were intercepted by said Sheriff Martin and his deputies and mercilessly shot to death, and we do further find that the killing was unnecessary and could have been avoided without serious injury to either person or property, and we find finally that the killing was wanton and unj ustifiable, but in this, we. George Maue and F. J. McNeal, of this jury, do not concur, and we, the jury do further say that there was such strong suspicion of unlawful violence at the hands of person or per- sons unknown to this jury as to make this inquest unnecessary. From the report made by the jury it will be seen that with the exception of George Maue and F. J. McNeal of the juiy, all the jurymen were agreed “that the killing was wanton and unjustifiable,” and yet the principal reason assigned at the time by the defenders of Sheriff Martin and his deputies, for JOHN KANE DIED JULY 19, 1897, AGED 38 YEARS. A CONSCIENTIOUS EXPONENT OF RIGHT AGAINST WRONG. 612 United Mine Workers of America the Lattimer tragedy, was that the wounded and killed were ignorant foreigners. Under the circumstances described, a lack of knowledge of the English language makes it dangerous, under the Sheriff Martin rule, for all foreigners, be they French, Irish, Welsh or of any other nationality, to seek employment in or around the American mines. Such incidents are a sad commentary and do not reflect much credit for the Pennsylvania laws that are supposed to justify all persons alike within its borders, when put into practice by the United States government. TENNESSEE— CONVICT MINES VISIT, OCTOBER, 1898. Rockwood, Tenn., October 8, 1898. Editor Journal : — Having returned to the mountains of Ten- nessee, I will record a few of the incidents that occurred on my travels during the past week. We have visited Petros, a mining town on a branch road known as the Harriman and Northeastern railroad. We also made a call at the state mine, which is at the terminus of the same road. Our visit to Petros was a very pleasant one. The material there is of the best from an organization point of view. We organized a local union at Petros, and believe that the mem- bers will count among the most active workers in the state. The latter place is next-door neighbor to the convict mine, but this does not deter them from expressing their union princi- ples. Being anxious to visit the State mine, worked by convict labor, we made all haste possible to get admittance into the jail. Early on Wednesday morning we were on our way to th,e mine, passed all the sentinels and reached the mouth of the mine before seven o’clock. Our first call was made on General Manager Wood, at the government building, who very politely received us and gave us our passport, and though we found guards in large numbers and guns just as numerous, prac- tically speaking our pathway was clear for we were veiy courteously received by all and allowed to pass unmolested, save the telling of our past history and present, which of course was rather embarrassing when there are so many things one does not wish to relate. On our way to the mine Tennessee Convict Mine Report 613 stripes without stars very often confronted us, but when trav- eling up the mountain side all alone our curiosity was much more in evidence at the sight of the only woman we had yet seen coming from the direction of the mine. We traveled on, however, and when we met, though our modesty prevented the asking of any questions, the polite manner in which our saluta- tion was received convinced us that none but male convicts were employed to mine coal in the mine operated by the state. On reaching the top of an incline plane other guards were stationed at different cabins around the entrance to the mine, but when our mission was explained one of the mine foremen by the name of Kellum very kindly offered his services as our escort through the part of the mine under his charge. We as cheerfully accepted with many thanks, and commenced our subterranean journey until we reached the cabin of Foreman Parker, the man Manager Wood had recommended us to in- quire for, and to whom my passport was addressed. The introductory part of out program was now at an end, and both gentlemen accompanied me through a large portion of the mine, including several entries and rooms, and about four hours’ time was spent among the convict miners in the mine owned and operated by the State of Tennessee. About 525 convicts are employed in and around the mines ; 200 of these are employed at outside work, on the top of the plane, dumping coal, making coke, shifting railroad cars; some acting as “trusties,” carrying the mail, etc., and in fact, filling all positions necessary for outside work, except that of checkweighman. One hundred coke ovens are in full blast and I was told that about 1,000 tons of coal are mined daily. Each convict has a daily task to perform. In entries two men mine eight cars of coal, said to weigh about thirteen hun- dred pounds. One man in entry has to load five cars. In rooms two men’s task is eleven cars and one man must fill six cars when he is alone. It is ruh-of-mine coal in every instance. Eight cents per car is paid for every car that is filled over the required task. When the mine is idle all convicts are in the mine as usual, and when the mine works again they must fill half task for each day lost unless there are several idle days together, then the extra task is made lighter. For any refusal to carry out rules the lash is applied. Some convicts are very little affected by lashes, while others take it as very severe punishment. The coal is about three feet thick, rather soft, fairly good to mine and a good roof or top overhead. The mine is pretty well ventilated. ^Entries and rooms, generally speaking, are dry. There is about one foot of fireclay under the coal which seems to act as a filler and dry entries for mules seem to be 614 United Mine Workers of America the rule. One entry, however, going toward the dip was wet, and was timbered rather heavy. Otherwise very little timber is used and in many cases props were unseen in rooms. I don’t know whether it will add anything to my credit or not, but the last coal I mined was in an entry by the side of a colored convict, with stripes, but no stars, in a mine owned and operated by the state government of Tennessee. About fifty state employes are said to be engaged at the mine, such as manager, mine foremen, etc., at salaries ranging from $40 to $160 per month. Many of these are very anxious to know who will be the next governor of Tennessee. After leaving the mine we were escorted to the stockade, or prison, where the convicts eat and sleep after their days’ work is done. They are marched from their working places in the mines through an entry and to an opening near the jail on the mountain side. The remaining distance is securely cov- ered until they enter the prison walls, made of boards and posts, 12 feet high. After entering they go direct to the bath room, und>’ess, go through the process of shower baths, put clean suits on, and then march to the supper table, after which they retire to their beds and remain there until next morning, when they breakfast, get their dinner bucket, enter the mine again at about half-past five o’clock in the morning to be re- leased about five o’clock every night. On visiting the prison we found, out of 508 convicts, about 60 of which were white men, only four sick. Three of these had broken legs through accidents in the mines. No white convicts among the number. This is certainly a good showing, when we consider all the circumtsances surrounding these convicts, made up from every avocation. The system, how- ever, is wrong. The coal that is mined by convicts is supply- ing the markets at prices that free labor is unable to compete with and must be stopped by the voters of Tennessee. They have done away with individual contract labor, and we hope the state will be compelled to follow suit in the near future. Chris Evans. O’GARA AND KING JOINT AGREEMENT. Chicago, Illinois, November 16, 1898. The following agreement to remain in force from date un- til April 1, 1899 : Memorandum of agreement between the O’Gara and King Mining Company and the United Mine Workers of America: Section 1. The price per ton of pick-mined, run of mine coal to be 40 cents, the miners agreeing to shoot the bottom coal before shooting the top coal. Conditions and Rates Before 1898 615 Section 2. Entry price to be $1.35 per yard for eight feet and $1.15 for twelve-foot entries, turning room $2.50, machine mining 33 cents per ton run of mine coal, entry ma- chine mining, eight-foot, 38 'cents per ton, square turn to be kept, each miner receiving an equal number of cars. Props to be sawed square on butt end. No docking for loading unclean coal. Same arrangements to be agreed to between the superintendent of the O’Gara and King Mining Company and the pit committee which will fully protect the said com- pany. The employes of the O’Gara and King Mining Company expressly agree to observe carefully the laws and constitu- tional requirements of the United Mine Workers of America. No employe to be discharged without good and sufficient cause. The miners agree that mass meetings will not be held in the mines. The company agrees to employ all former employes without discrimination. The following scale of wages to be paid day laborers : Per day — Company men, $1.75; drivers,, $1.75; track layers, $1.90; timber men, $1.90; all other inside labor, $1.75; trappers, $.75. Outside labor to be paid the scale agreed to between the O’Gara and King Mining Company and said top men during the resumption of work last June. The company agrees to furnish the pit committee with a check and permit them to check off union dues and other assessments required by the United Mine Workers of America. Signed on behalf of the O’Gara and King Mining Company : O’GARA AND KING MINING COMPANY. Signed on behalf of the United Mine Workers of America ; John Mitchell. John Hunter. W. R. Russell. W. D. Ryan. Edward Cahill. Daniel J. Keefe, Chairman. CONDITIONS PREVAILING AND MINING RATES BEFORE SCALE WAS MADE AT CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, 1898. Size screens between Districts. 1897 Per ton, 1897 bars, 1897 Pittsburg thin vein .48-52 1% Hocking Valley and Cambridge, Ohio .56 standard Eastern, Ohio, middle district .56 11,4 Jackson County, Ohio, .56 standard Jackson County, Ohio, low coal, .61 standard Palmyra, Ohio .6.31/4 standard Salineville, Ohio, No. 6 vein .56 li/4 Salineville Strip vein, No. 7 (9 hours) .71 lli 616 United Mine Workers of America Indiana Bituminous — Screened lump .56 1 % Coal under 2 feet 10 indies .76 Brazil Block coal, 3 ft. 1 in .71 Illinois All Mine-Run — 1st District, Streator, etc .44 Wilmington, etc .65 2nd District, Danville, Westville, Grape Creek, and Ver- million Co. mines, .37 3rd District, Springfield, Niantic and Lincoln .37 7-10 4th District, Carlinville, Taylorville, Pana, Litchfield, and Hillsboro .32 2-10 Assumption and Moweaka long wall mines .52 5tli District, Glen Carbon, Belleville .37 6th District, DuQuoin, Oden, Sandoval .28 7th District, Carterville, and Big Muddy District .28 8th District, Fulton, Peoria .45 Long wall .60 9th District, Mt. Olive, Staunton, Collinsville, and Breeze .37 Ohio miners’ wages per day, for 1897 as compared with 1898, for actual days worked (stated to be 171). — Machine loaders, 1897 — $1.26 ; 1898 — $1.39 ; an increase of 13 cents per day on 171 days, for 1898. Machine runners, 1898 — $2.45. Pick mining, 1897 — $1.27 ; 1898 — $1.61 ; an in- crease of 34 cents per day on 171 days for 1898; making an increase of 21 cents per day for pick mining over machine mining, or an increase of $35.91 for the actual number of days worked, a fact fully demonstrating that machine miners are not receiving an equal share, or pay, with the miners still adhering to the pick. Day hands, 1897 — 6,654 ; 1898 — 6,546 ; decrease — 108. De- crease in day hands, which gives another evidence <#■ less cost for day work, and larger profits per ton on all coal mined. Total output for Ohio, 1897 — 12,448,822; 1898 — 14,058,- 135 ; increase — 1,609,313. Hocking District, 1897—4,129,702; 1898—4,577,474; in- crease — 447,772. Ohio, machine mining, total for year 1897 — 4,105,124; 1898 — 5,252,598 ; increase, 1898 — 1,147,474, equals entire out- put for 1890. Athens, Hocking and Perry counties produced in 1897 — 78 per cent ; in 1898 — 86 per cent ; increase, 1898 over 1897 — 8 per cent. Convention of Sub-District 6, Ohio 617 CONVENTION OF SUB-DISTRICT 6, DISTRICT 6. A miners’ convention of Sub-district 6, of District 6, Ohio, was held at Zanesville, Ohio' December 2, 1898. President D. H. Sullivan called the convention to order and after appointing the necessary committees submitted his re- port. In reviewing the situation the president called attention to the deplorable condition of affairs existing previous to the Chicago Joint Conference in January, when the operators gave an advance of ten cents per ton on mining and the eight- hour workday, to take effect April 1. The future prospect however, he said, was much brighter owing to the changes made and he hoped the local conditions would be improved correspondingly. National Organizer W. C. Scott addressed the convention and his remarks on the condition of the organization and the coal situation in general were well received. After the report of the credential committee had been made and delegates seated, the auditing committee reported as follows : REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE Balance in treasury January 1, 1898, $25.85 Receipts for year 245.80 Expenditures. D. H. Sullivan, labor and expenses $117.02 Jas. M. Stewart, Labor and expenses . 19.35 Jno. Malloy, labor and expenses 63.03 Total $199.40 Balance in treasury $72.25 Officers elected — President, Jas. M. Stewart; Vice-Presi- dent, L. W. Finch; Secretary-Treasurer; C. C. Henderson; Member Executive Board, J. S. Taylor. Resolutions were adopted asking pay for wet entries, the use of label goods, turning straight neck rooms, turning rooms, together with the adoption of a constitution to govern the sub-district. On the retirement of President Sullivan the convention eulogized his work as follows : Whereas, Our retiring sub-district president, D. H. Sulli- van, has by his untiring zeal and energy, been instrumental 618 United Mine Workers of America in advancing the interest and welfare of the organization in this sub-district; and Whereas, He has in all particulars discharged his duties without fear or favor ; and Whereas, He has been successful in bringing to a speedy termination differences existing between certain operators and miners of this sub-district ; therefore be it Resolved, That upon his retiring from the office of presi- dent of this sub-district we extend to him our heartfelt con- gratulations as a souvenir of our esteem for him as an officer. Unanimously concurred in. JOINT AGREEMENT DISTRICT 19. McHenry, Kentucky, January 6, 1899. Resolved, That the chain machine operators and miners of the Central Kentucky district jointly agree that 3% cents per ton shall be the price paid for bradding of coal, taking up of bottom and removing dust, from the 16th day of Janu- ary, 1899, until March 31, 1899, with the understanding that another joint conference shall be held to agree upon a new scale of prices not later than February 13, 1899. And it is further agreed that not more than eight inches of bottom coal shall be left to be taken up. And for every inch of bottom over eight inches the miner to get of a cent per ton extra for every inch. The bank boss and machine boss to hold the cutting down as close to the bottom as possible. Signed on part of miners: J. H. Doss, President, J. B. Bender, Vice-President. J. R. Jeffrey, Member Executive Board, Chris. Evans, Representative, U. M. W. of A. Signed on part of operators : W. G. Duncan, H. Davies, .(By Simon Jones.) In justice to President Doss it should be said that our confidence in his capacity to act as an official for the mine workers was badly shaken, when on returning to Central City, where he found some opposition, he told the miners that he had taken no part in the agreement made. CHAPTER XXIX. TENTH ANNUAL CONVENTION DISTRICT 6. Columbus, Ohio, January 5, 1899. The convention was called to order by President Wm. E. Farms. President Farms congratulated the delegates on the large attendance present, and hoped that they would give strict at- tention to business, and discuss the questions before the con- vention in a friendly spirit, and at the same time enjoy them- selves while in attendance at the convention. He then introduced Rev. F. M. Swinehart, pastor of Wes- ley Chapel, who, pursuant to the requirements of the consti- tution of District No. 6, opened the convention with a fervent prayer. At the conclusion of the prayer Rev. Swinehart was called upon and spoke at length on the importance of the work before the convention, and expressed the hope that it would re- sult in the greatest good to the mass and to those who are represented in this convention. He realized the importance of labor, for on it depended the welfare of not only the labor- ers themselves, but the community at large. He extended to the delegates a cordial welcome to the city, and hoped that their stay while here would be of a pleasant nature. The Committee on Credentials read their report to the con- vention. The following is a list of delegates reported : Thomas Cole, W. E. Farms, Robert Tracy, T. L. Lewis, W. H. Haskins, D. H. Sullivan, Robert Legg, J. J. Mossop, Jonathan Longbottom, George H. Hall, William Simmons, W. C. Scott, -C. L. Stevenson, Harry M. West, William Richards, Albert J. Krier, Aurellius Howard, Michael Currans, Charles R. Mc- Millan, Wiley Jewell, Joseph Sewell, Charles Bailey, Samuel Witts, Robert Treherne, Patrick Loper, I. N. Coleman, Angelo Mallatt, G. W. Savage, Charles Wells, Thomas Hardy, Frank C. Collard, Harry E. Elliott, S. H. Wilson, W. M. Caggill, Ishum Millhuff, H. A. Fanning, Daniel Bateman, George Mor- gan, W. T. Evans, William Smith, P. F. Dickerhoff, J. Frazier, John Jenkins, John Wilson, Abel Armitage, Jesse T. Walton, Morgan Lewis, William Morgan, John B. Blackston, W. H. ( 619 ) 620 United Mine Workers of America Werker, Albert Thorpe, William Fennell, John Thomas, E, S. McCullough, James McKee, Oliver Channel, Watkin Watkins, H. F. Jackson, W. J. Sheehan, Thomas L. Richards, Wilford Henry, Edward Sweeney, Elmer Applegarth, F, W. Quayle, John H. Stevenson, Thomas Cairns, Samuel Baysinger, Fred Rhodes, Michael Collins. Motion that the partial report of the credential committee be adopted, delegates seated and committee continued. Car- ried. The convention took a recess for one-half hour to give the president time to appoint committees. Convention called to order, and President Farms announced the following committees : Order of Business — William T. Evans, W. H. Werker, Frank C. Collard, Morgan Lewis, David W. Watkins. Griev- ances — Charles Wells, Thomas Cole, William Smith, Edward Sweeney, Thomas Hardy. Resolutions — Wm. Richards, James McKee, Elza McCullough, Mike Curran, William Morgan. Constitution — John H. Thomas, Mike Collins, Albert Thorpe, Dennis Sullivan, G. Savage. Officers’ Reports — J. J. Mossop, John Jenkins, H. A. Banning, John Wilson, John B. Black- son. The convention took a recess until 2 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Farms. Committee on Credentials submitted a supplementary re- port, as folows: George Bishop, William Robinson, John Hood, T. J. Martin, George Cecil, Alexander Ramage, W. C. Fisher. Chas. L. Kimes, I. N. Coleman, John J. Mossop, Committee on Credentials. The report of the committee was adopted. Committee on rules of order reported that the convention convene at 8 :30 a. ni., adjourn at 12 noon, reassemble at 1 :30 and adjourn at 4.30 p. m. The time for each speaker was limited to five minutes. Ohio 10th Annual Convention, 1899 621 To speak only once until all others who wished has been heard, and then not more than twice without consent of con- vention. Cushing’s Manual was to govern all parliamentary questions during the proceedings. The report of the committee was adopted. President Farms then delivered his annual address. The report of President Farms contained a resume of the benefits brought about through the joint movement at Chicago, the good effect it had in the making of a day wage scale and ma- chine mining for Ohio and the Pittsburg district of Pennsyl- vania, together with suggestions on urging legislation favor- able to the weighing of coal before being screened. He said the organization was in a most flourishing condition both numerically and financially. Closing with his thanks to the miners for assistance rendered and confidence bestowed dur- ing his two years’ service in their interest. Vice-President Haskins rendered a verbal report in which he said the organization was much stronger and that the Chi- cago agreement had given the United Mine Workers a chance to build up the organization. He also said after referring to the 120 days he had worked as Vice-President during the year, “I believe that if there is no work for a Vice-President, we should not elect one.” Closing his statement with thanks to one and all for the honor conferred upon him. SECRETARY LEWIS’S REPORT. __ Fellow Delegates : It is with pleasure and a great measure of self-satisfaction that I submit my report as secretary- treasurer of District 6. This report, though necessarily brief, includes the vital principles of our organization. When first you honored me with this trust, we had, ap- proximately 7,000 members in our organization in Ohio, and an indebtedness of nearly $700. Now I am more than pleased to report that the enrolled membership will approximate 16,- 000, the largest in the history of the state organization, with all debts paid and a balance in the treasury, the beginning of the year, of $1,699.57, a detailed statement of which is at- tached hereto, and printed, and will be distributed among the delegates to this convention, and sent to all local unions in Ohio. In view of the lack of work among the miners of Ohio 622 United Mine Workers of America during the past year, this result is very flattering to the mem- bers of the organization and to your officials. This emphasizes the fact that Ohio is at present, as it has always been in the past, a tower of strength, not only to the miners of Ohio, but to the cause of organized labor in the United States. Owing to uniform courtesies extended to me by the mem- bers of our organization and my fellow officials, the routine work of my office has been most pleasant, although involving an extraordinary amount of labor. The duties of my office, however, have not prevented me from doing whatever I could to further the interests of the organization outside of the strict line of my official work. Indications and rumors point to a situation in the near future that will test the sincerity and staying qualities of every member of the United Mine Workers. In this emer- gency, I hope, and believe, that Ohio will act as a unit. The general discussion of the present condition of our organiza- tion, together with recommendations for its future policy, rests with my fellow officials, and I hesitate to introduce personal opinions along those lines at this time. The Secretary closed his financial report as follows: SUMMARY. Cash on hand July 1, 1898, $701.69 ; receipts for six months ending December 31, 1898, $3,423.42; total, $4,125.11. Expenditures — ^Relief for miners, $150.00; miscellaneous, $322.66; to salaries and expenses, $1,952.88; total, $2,425.54. Balance cash on hand December 31, 1898, $1,699.57. With sincere thanks to the members of our organization for the many courtesies extended to me during the past year, and with the hope that our organization will continue to flourish and be a power to advance the interest of the miners of Ohio and other states, I remain. Fraternally yours, T. L. Lewis, Secretary-Treasurer. AUDITORS’ REPORT. We, your auditing committee, have met in accordance with the constitution and after a careful examination of all the books, receipts and vouchers, we find them properly kept and correct, and desire to submit the following report: Balance on hand Julv 1, 1898, $701.69; receipts for six months, $3,423.42 ; total, $4,125.11. Expenses — Officers’ salaries and expenses, $1,£62.88; in- cidental, $322.66; relief of miners, $150.00; total, $2,425.54. Ohio 10th Annual Convention, 1899 623 Balance cash on hand December 31, 1898, $1,699.57. We certify that the Secretary-Treasurer presented drafts and certified checks on banks for the full amount of $1,699.57. Chas. L. Kimes, I. N. Coleman, J. J. MOSSOP, Auditing Committee. Officers elected follow : President, W. H. Haskins. On being called for remarks the president-elect said he would endeavor to keep the organization in as good condition as he found it, and thanked the members for the honor con- ferred. The folowing telegram was read : Indianapolis, Indiana, January 5, 1899. Hearty congratulations to the Ohio organization, and best wishes for the ensuing year. W. C. Pearce. Time having arrived, a recess was taken until Friday. MORNING SESSION — JANUARY 6TH 1899. Convention called to order by President-elect W. H. Has- kins. Election of officers was continued when D. H. Sullivan was elected Vice-President and T. L. Lewis, Secretary-Treasurer. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Farms. The following auditors were then elected : W. T. Evans, G. Savage, S. H. Wilson. After statements made by delegates on the situation, the convention adjourned. MORNING SESSION — JANUARY 7, 1899. After the convention was called to order it was agreed to go into executive session to hear report of Committee on Transportation. The convention then resumed business in open sessions. Report of the Committee on Resolutions was read and adopted as follows: 624 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That this convention does pledge itself in the support of union label goods, and encourage the employment of union men in all branches of industry. That the delegates from the State of Ohio to the national convention are hereby instructed to use their best endeavors to get an advance of 10 cents per ton and make the run of mine system universal through the competing field. That district 6, of the United Mine Workers of America in annual convention assembled, hereby directs its president and secretary to notify the national secretary, W. C. Pearce, that it is our desire, as it should be his duty, to have all mat- ters of record in his office -within convenient reach of the na- tional convention during its session. That this convention adopt a rule prohibiting working days other than regular workdays. That the representatives of the Ohio miners demand a uni- form rent of not more than $1 per month per room. That five delegates at large be elected at this convention to attend the national convention. United Mine Workers of Amer- ica at Pittsburg, on January 9, 1899, and also to attend the joint meeting of miners and operators to be held in the above city, following the national convention. Wm. Richards, James McKee, Wm. Morgan, Michael Collins, E. S. McCullough, Committee on Resolutions. The next order of business the report of the Committee on Constitution. After reading the report, moved that the report be taken up and acted on seriatim. Carried. Constitutional amendments made: Article 4, Section 3, to read as follows: “All credentials shall be sent to the District Secretary-Treasurer three days before the annual convention and the auditing committee shall examine same two days prior to convention in Columbus, Ohio, and locals in arrears two months, or sixty days, will not be allowed representation and no delegate -will be allowed a seat or vote whose local has not complied with all the provisions of this section.” Add to Section 4, Article 5, the following : “And in no case shall this section interfere with Section 3, Article 4.” Ohio 10th Annual Convention, 1899 625 Section 4, Article 3, add after the word “removal” : “The President of each sub-district shall have the right to organ- ize locals in their respective districts.” Change Article 4, Section 1, to read as follows : “The regu- lar annual convention of District 6 shall be held in the city of Columbus, Ohio, to convene at 9 o’clock a. m., on Tuesday preceding the regular national convention in each year.” Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Farms. Report of Committee on Constitution. Amendments adopted : Article 9, Section 8 ;• “All sub-district and local secretaries and treasurers shall furnish bond in such amount as the re- spective sub-districts and local unions may require. When such bond is given, officers shall receive compensation for their service.” Section 3, Article 4 : Change word three to five in second line. Section 9, Article 9 : “No member of this district shall be eligible to be a candidate for more than one office at one time in the district.” “That any local in District 6, wishing to be represented by proxy, shall be represented by a delegate of their own sub- district.” Article 3, Section 5: Change the words one thousand to two thousand in the eleventh line. J. H. Thomas, Albert Thorpe, Michael Collins, G. Savage, D. H. Sullivan, Committee. The next order of business was the announcements of board members selected by the various sub-districts. Sub-district No. 1, M. Collins, Congo; Sub-district No. 2, Wm. Meadows, Wellston; Sub-district No. 3, J. H. Thomas, Rhodes; Sub-district No. 4, Albert Thorpe, East Palestine; 626 United Mine Workers of America Sub-district No. 5, W. H. Werker, Mineral Point; Sub-district No. 6, J. S. Taylor, Pleasant City. Motion, that the selection of board members be ratified by this convention. Adopted. The following were elected delegates-at-large by the dis- trict convention to attend the Pittsburg national convention, January 9, 1899 : John McBride, Wm. T. Lewis, Albert Thorpe, Michael Collins, Patrick Loper. The three latter names had been reported as delegates to the district conven- tion. Resolved, That a rising vote of thanks be tendered to Rev. Swinehart for officiating at the opening of the convention. Adopted unanimously. Whereas, Governor John H. Tanner, of the State of Illi- nois, has taken an advanced step in the interest of humanity in the protection furnished the striking miners of Virden; therefore be it Resolved, That we, the miners of District 6, of Ohio, in convention assembled, do most heartily commend his action and recommend his example to the executives of other states, under like circumstances. Moved that a copy of the resolutions be sent to Governor Tanner and also to become a part of the proceedings of this convention. Adopted. J. J. Mossop was declared the choice of the Ohio delega- tion for National auditor. Motion, that we, the miners of District 6, Ohio, do hereby heartily endorse T. L. Lewis for National President. Motion to table the above motion was lost. Motion to endorse adopted — Ayes, 33 ; noes, 13. Motion we tender Brother Farms a vote of thanks for his valuable services for the past two years. Adopted unani- mously. Convention adjourned sine die. TENTH NATIONAL ANNUAL CONVENTION. Pittsburg, Pa., Jan. 9, 1899. The tenth annual convention of the United IMine Workers of America was called to order at 10 a. m. by President Ratch- Tenth National Annual Convention 627 ford. After a few remarks by the chair, Secretary Pearce read the circular call to the delegates present. The committee on credentials appointed was called upon to make their re- port. P. J. Keenan, a member of this committee, made a brief statement, and said they were not ready, and requested more time. Delegate Dolan moved that a committee on credentials be elected by the convention, and that each district select their own member of this committee. The chair ruled this motion out of order. An appeal from the decision of the chair was taken by Patrick Dolan and seconded by T. L. Lewis. President Ratchford called W. R. Fairley to the chair. Re- marks were made by Dolan, Lewis, President Ratchford and others, after which a vote was taken on the appeal. A divi- sion of the house was taken and the vote stood 207 against 121, the chair being sustained by a majority of 86. Motion, that all delegates who had credentials give them to the committee. Adopted. Motion, that the committee on credentials be increased so that one from each district, selected by the district, be added to the present committee. After discussion by many of the delegates, the previous question was put before the convention and lost. The convention then adjourned. TUESDAY MORNING. President Ratchford in the chair. The first order of business was the further report of the committee on credentials. The report was read by the com- mittee/ but was not complete. Motion, that the report be received and the committee re- tained. Amendment: That a committee from each district be ap- pointed by the delegates from their respective districts to go over the report with the book and the credential committee, already apointed, to ascertain if the report is correct. Adopted. Committee selected : ’ District 5, Wm. Dodds; District 1, John Fahy; District 7, 628 United Mine Workers of America A. Slowitzky; District 6, T. L. Lewis; District 11, J. J. Eddy; District 8, P. D. Roberts; District 12, Jacob Stanley; Dis- trict 13, J. F. Ream ; Districts 14 and 21, A. Struble ; District 19, W. C. Webb; District 23, T. R. Jeffries; District 20, Ala- bama, W. R. Fairley; District 17, J. M. Smith. Convention adjourned. TUESDAY AFTERNOON. Convention called. to order at 2:30 p. m.. President Ratch- ford in the chair, who stated that the order of busines was ad- dresses by the representatives of the Labor League of western Pennsylvania, and introduced Executive Board Mem- ber Grundy and President Klinger. After these gentlemen had concluded their addresses, Mr. Dolan offered the following : That the United Mine Workers of America return sincere thanks to the United Labor League for assistance rendered the mine workers at various times, and that the same acknowl- edgment be tendered the speakers. Representative Fisher, of the Tobacco Workers’ Union, was granted the floor and urged the mine workers to patronize union label tobacco. Moved that the delegates to this convention pledge them- selves to use nothing but union tobacco. John H. Murray, of the Boot and Shoe Workers’ Organ- ization, addressed the convention on behalf of the striking shoe workers of Marlboro, Mass., who are on strike, the speaker urging that the label of the shoemakers be patronized and that any aid given them would be thankfully received. Stewart Reed, organizer of the International Association of Machinists, addressed the convention, speaking of the benefits of organization. A communication from Mrs. E. Cecille Cavendish was read, bringing to the attention of the convention her book, entitled “Popular Opinion,” and explaining her proffer of 10 per cent of the profits to establish a Mamma Relief Fund. A Mr. Morgan appeared before the convention to invite the delegates to attend a couple of meetings to be addressed by a socialist speaker called Mr. Hickey. The chair announced that in order to facilitate the work of Tenth National Annual Convention 629 the convention and be ready to proceed to business after the reports of the credentials and investigating committees were submitted and acted upon, he thought that it would be proper to appoint a committee on rules and order of business, and an- nounced the following as the committee: William Warner, Pennsylvania; W. C. Scott, Ohio; Joseph Pope, Illinois. WEDNESDAY MORNING. Motion, that we adjourn until 2 o’clock, and that the investigating committee be requested to appear at the con- vention. Carried. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. Meeting called to order at 2 p. m. Report of investigating committee. Secretary Fahy pro- ceeded to read it as far as completed. After some discussion the following resolution was offered : Resolved, That we give this committee appointed by this convention until tomorow morning at 9 o’clock to report, and that their investigation be confined to the matter of creden- tials, and if further investigation be found necessary, said investigation shall be made in its proper order and be brought before this convention as prescribed by our constitution. Carried. On motion convention adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING. Convention called to order at 9 a. m. by Acting President Mitchell, who said that the order of business was the report of the investigating committee. W. R. Fairley, a member of the committee who was present, stated that the committee requested an extension of time, and that they would be ready to report at 11 o’clock. On motion the time was extended. THURSDAY AFTERNOON. Meeting called to order at 1 p. m. by President Ratchford. The chair then announced that the international president and other members of the International Typographical Union were present, and according to a resolution previously passed 630 United Mine Workers of America would be extended the courtesies of the convention. He then introduced President Donnelly, who addressed the conven- tion, and concluded by reviewing conditions in the city of Pittsburg. Other members, being called upon, stated that inasmuch as the matter had been stated by the president they would not take up the time of the convention. After some discussion the following was introduced: Whereas, The Allied Printing Trades of Pittsburg and vicinity are at present engaged in a struggle for the purpose of establishing a shorter workday ; and Whereas, A number of printing firms in Pittsburg, not- ably Murdock, Kerr & Co., Wm. G. Johnston & Co., Myers, Shinkle & Co., and Shaw Bros., members of the United Typo- thetae of America (employing printers), have refused to grant this reasonable request, and have thereby violated a solemn agreement entered into at Syracuse last October be- tween the United Typothetae of America, the International Typographical Union, the International Printing Pressmen and Assistants’ Union, and the International Brotherhood of Bookbinders ; therefore be it Resolved, That the United Mine Workers of America, in convention assembled hereby heartily indorse the action of said Allied Printing Trades in their effort to better the condition of their fellow craftsmen ; and be it further Resolved, That we hereby pledge ourselves to demand the union label on all our official printing, and urge upon the in- dividual members of the United Mine Workers of America to have the union label on whatever printing they may have done; and they are especially enjoined to request all firms with whom they do business to demand the union label on their printing. . Carried. The investigating committee was then called upon, and Secretary Fahy of the committee, read the report, after which Delegate Hunter moved that it is the sense of this conven- tion that we accept the report of the investigation committee and seat the eighteen disputed delegates, and that the commit- tee be continued for further investigation and correction. Carried. The report showed the following representation: West Virginia — Joseph M. Smith, H. Stephenson, F. G. Stanley and M. Stanley. Tenth National Annual Convention 631 Illinois — S. M. Powers, L. G. Crane, E. Zellers, John Mil- ler, P. H. Straughn, Samuel Pascoe, E. D. Jameson, G. G. Cravens, E. Pranke, John Boyle, Fred Spires, Samuel Palmer, George Sturman, P. McCall, L. T. 'Jones, George Hild, James Beattie, S. G. Dodson, Thomas J. Reynolds, Wm. Green, Lewis Drew, Jos. J. Novak, Patrick Martin, James Hickey, David Huggins, F. C. Dorris, Charles Henniman, Thomas Burke, Peter Stephenson, P. J. Keenan, A. McWhinnie, James Max- well, Henry Seibert, John H. Brown, Tim Downey, Frank Ehrett, William Topham, Evan Evans, J. M. Hunter, W. D. Ryan, John G. Smith, W. E. McQuitty, Lawrence Mor- gan, Ed Murphy, John Sandbrook, H. Cartwright, George Boyce, J. W. Peters, H. W. Smith, Martin Gregins, Joseph Eslick, Wm. Monaghan, John' McElvaney, H. F. Schultle, Samuel Johnson, Gilbert Cochran, Thomas B. Crimmer, James J. McAndrews, Charles Butler, Thomas Bell, Ed Cranage, Arthur Powell, J. D. Foley, Charles Wantling, Fred Keller, Arthur Daniels, J. McKinney, John Wilson, Michael McManus, James Beaver, N. R. Russell, Phillip Voeterle, G. Cochran, D. McDonald, H. S. Bell, Ben Jones, Joseph Pope, James Bos- ton, W. T. Morris, L. J. Larson, George D. Miller, Ed Cahill, J. G. Furlong, James Roe, A. J.* Rasper, James Dunn, Morris Smith, Thomas Lodder, Wm. Knowlman, David Youks, Samuel Airnsworth, G. R. McVey, Wm. Hefti, John Green, Alex Suttle, J. B. Milium, George Kakara, Jacob Stanley, Ben King, Ed Lafferty, D. Higgins, John Shannahan, John H. Brown, James Beese, John Heap, W. R. Russell, John Pur- son, Wm. Pearce, George Motteshaw, Thomas Gallagher, Jesse Baruw, W. T. Morris, M. Smith, J. M. Hunter, Wm. Shears, William Turner, Robert Simpson, William Macha, Jessie Brown, James Ward, S. Liddicott, B. Behring, Fred Drew, John Caldwell, Wm. Irvin, G. Schurch, L. Doney, David Dagon, P. Dearmond, H. A. Geddes, Alex. Oyes, W. Knollman, Joseph Manuel, James Murphy. Ohio — George Morgan, John J. Mossop, T. M. Davis, F. Dilcher, F. Powell, Samuel Witts, George W. Hall, C. E. Wells, W. T. Evans, Wm. Smith, Joseph Sewell, Alex. Ramage, W. C. Pearce, Fred Rhodes, W. H. Crawford, W. H. Haskins, George Patterson, W. Jewell, Aljel Armitage, T. L. Lewis, T. W. Davis, 632 United Mine Workers of America Wm. Fennell, Thomas Hardy, John Thomas, Thomas Caimes, Albert Thorpe, Abram Porter, Hiram Fanning, Wm. Robin- son, Patrick Loper, D. S. Richards, Thomas Haines, Phillip Lloyd, J. J. Walton, Joseph Shooter, James McKee, J. B. Black- son, S. H. Wilson, John A. Smith, C. A. Stevenson, Wm. Rich- ards, H. Elliott, Michael Currans, Robert Legg, Wm. Simonds, Edwin P. Miller, W. T. Lewis, Charles Bailey, H. J. Jackson, J. H. Thomas, John Jenkins, Jonathan Longbottom, S. P. Cu- sick, W. Henry, E. S. McColloch, T. L. Richards, H. Williams, Edward Sweeney, F. W. Quayle, Thomas Cole, W. Watkins, J. H. Frazee, E. Applegarth, G. Savage, J. G. Richards, George Bishop, W. T. Evans, Thomas Thornton, George Cecil, W. C. Scott, J. H. Kerby, John McBride, D. H. Sullivan, W. C. Fischer, Samuel Baysinger, .William Morgan, M. Collins, D. Watkins, Angelo Malett. Pennsylvania — John Shepherd, H. O’Neal, James Watch- orn, John Eckery, Patrick Dolan, Robert McKenna, Robert Winning, Harry Wise, Wm. Warner, John Fahy, Elijah Wat- kins, Patrick Maloney, John McGoldridge, Wm. Frew, S. A. Baker, Christopher Marshbank, Ed. McKay, Robert Johnson, Louis Gouziou, Samuel Gaskill, L. H, Johnson, Ed. Soppitt, Benjamin James, A. Slowitsky, H. B. Stamper, Henry Karr, Charles Doernte, John E. Harrison, James Plaster, Charles Tickhill, Charles E. Wallace, John McGinty, Thomas Carroll, P. J. Hunt, Louis Jones, Harry Walker, Robert Curley, G. H. Thomas, Chris Schmids, Adam Simons, Samuel Schultz. George Eckman, Michael Rice, Thomas Duffy, Wm. Dodds, D. J. Conley, Matthew Carrigan, Walter Calverly, John P. Ferry, *Frank McKay, Miles Daugherty, James Russell, Thomas Kavenaugh, Thomas Chataway, Henry Lennex, John Hurley, Joseph McGill, Thomas F. Allsop, George Rigby, Charles Smith. Indiana — Thomas J. Lee, James Cantwell, Barney Navin, E. Dixon, J. H. Kennedy, Dan McKillop, John Hayes, A. B. Keller, Wm. Thompson, P. D. Roberts, Phillip Collins, T. J. Roberts, G. W. Purcell, Mark Roberts, E. Atkinson, W. D. Van Horn, Thomas Murdock, T. E. Newcomb, C. Spinks, Samuel Boskell, M. T. Collins, H. Hargroves, Joseph Hines, Elmer Tannehill, James McKinney, James T. Jones, Wm. Tenth National Annual Convention 633 Tipton, Thomas J. Lee, E. G. Lewis, J. M. Wheeler, Ed Stew- ert, Joseph Edwards, Jeff Lee, John Eddy, John O’Rourke. Iowa — J. W. Reynolds, John Barrow, John F. Ream, J. P. Reese. Kentucky — John B. Render, Thomas R. Jeffries, J. M. Lewis, J. H. Wood, W. C. Webb. Alabama — F. P. Bishop, W. R. Fairley, Joseph Holliver, Frank Fourier, Thomas Belch. Indian Territory — W. R. Howe, James Rowe. Arkansas — James Haines, A1 Struble. Kansas — A. Connery. Tennessee — John Anderegg, S. F. Broughton. The report was received and the committee on rules re- ported that the convention should be called to order at 9:30 a. m., adjourn at 12 noon, re-convene at 1 :30 p. m., and ad- journ at 5, and that the convention proceedings should be governed by Cushing’s Manual. The order of business made it necessary for the various committees to report in order and the convention adjourned. FRIDAY MORNING SESSION. Convention called to order with President Ratchford in the chair. The secretary then read a list of candidates for office, and the chair announced that all delegates should vote for six members of the National Executive Board, and four candidates for delegates to the American Federation of Labor conven- tion. At this stage of the proceedings President Ratchford, Act- ing President Mitchell, and Secretary-Treasurer Pearce’s re- ports were read to the convention. President Ratchford’s report treated at length the many incidents that had transpired during the nine months’ term he had acted as president before serving on the “United States Industrial Commission” to which he had been appointed. A position secured for him largely through the influence wielded by his fellow miners and members of other trades unions who urged their claims and his acknowledged ability to serve on such a commission. The president commenced his report as follows : 634 United Mine Workers op America To the Delegates of United Mine Workers of America, in Tenth Annual Convention assembled : Comrades and Fellow Workers — In accordance with an es- tablished custom I now present to you my report covering that period from the adjournment of our last annual conven- tion to September 10th last. Preceding it, however, permit me on behalf of our noble organization to congratulate you and bid you a hearty welcome to its tenth annual convention. Your presence today in numbers far exceeding that of any previous convention bears testimony in language clear and decisive of the earnestness of your purpose, of the work which you have so well performed and of your firm devotion to the cherished prinicples of trades unions, for all of which you deserve the praise and congratulations of the wage workers of our country, of every trade, class and profession. Your actions, indeed, in this respect bespeak not only the purposes and achievements of the past, but it is also indicative of your policy in the future, it gives a warning unmistakable that the trades union movement is as permanent as the age itself, and that it will continue to develop in strength, power, and influence until the wrongs which gave it birth have been properly and thoroughly righted. The year through which we have passed marks an epoch in the history of our organization, unequaled in its progress and influence by that of any previous year. The number and ex- tent of strikes and disputes of all characters have been greatly reduced. Confidence in our business methods has been in- creased and has entered into all the relations between em- ployer and employe. Force without reason, which was once the ruling factor in the settlement of wage troubles, is now the exception, and the more humane spirit of conciliation and arbitration, based upon principles of justice, has grown in favor until it has become an almost universal rule. He quoted in full the joint agreement entered into be- tween operators and miners at Chicago, January 26, 1898, that gave the mine workers throughout the competitive field the eight-hour workday, commencing April 1, 1898, and ten cents per ton advance on mining rates for the coming year. The Hocking Valley operators refused to sign the Chicago agree- ment for a time, he said, because they considered the prices named that wiped out the differential between the Hocking Valley and Pittsburg thin vein district placed them at a dis- advantage when compared with other portions of the com- petitive field. Through correspondence, however, entered into Tenth National Annual Convention 635 between President Ratchford and Ohio operators, the latter signed the Chicago scale later, fixing mining rates throughout Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and western Pennsylvania for the year ending April 1, 1899, and the then dangerous apprehensions imagined passed away for another year. The president’s re- port contained the uniform inside day wage scale of prices adopted at Columbus, Ohio, March 8-10, 1898, to govern wages paid for inside day labor at all the mines represented at Chi- cago in accordance with a resolution adopted at the interstate joint conference. (The scale referred to follows:) INSIDE DAY WAGE SCALE FROM APRIL 1, 1898, TO MARCH 31, 1899. Tracklayers $1.90 Tracklayers’ helpers- 1.75 Trappers .75 Bottom cagers 1.75 Drivers 1.75 Trip riders 1.75 Water haulers 1.75 Timbermen, where such are employed 1.90 Pipe men, for compressed air plants 1.85 Company men in long wall mines, third vein districts. Northern Illinois 1.75 All other inside day labor 1.75 The above scale was arrived at by taking the average of the wages paid in all of the competitive districts and reducing said average to an eight-hour day, then adding the advance to said average to correspond with the advance in the price of mining to be paid April 1st next. Resolution No. 1. — The above schedule of day wages ap- plies only to men employed in the performance of their labor, and does not apply to boys unless they can do and are em- ployed to do a man’s work. Resolution No. 2. — Whereas, We have failed to agree upon a uniform rate of wages for the different classes of outside labor for the entire competitive field, owing to the variations of conditions over which we have no control ; Resolved, That the employing of outside day laborers around the mine and wages to be paid the same shall be left entirely to the employers and such employes in all the competi- tive districts, and the question of uniform wages for outside labor be referred to our next interstate joint convention. Resolved, That wher.e any member of the present force of outside day labor in the competitive field prefer to work in the mine in preference to accepting the wages offered for their 636 United Mine Workers of America services as outside day laborers, they shall be given places in the mine to mine coal. Resolution No. 3. — Resolved, That an eight-hour day means eight hours’ work in the mine at usual, working places for all classes of inside day labor. This shall be exclusive of the time required in reaching such working places in the morning and departing from same at night. Regarding drivers they shall take their mules to and from the stables and time in doing so shall not include any part of the day’s labor, their work be- ginning when they reach the change at which they receive empty cars, but in no case a driver’s time be docked while he is waiting for the cars at the point named. Resolution No. 4. — Resolved, That when the men go into the mine in the morning they shall be entitled to two hours’ pay, whether or not the mine works the full two hours. But after the first two hours the men shall be paid for every hour thereafter by the hour for each hour’s work or fractional part thereof. If for any reason the regular routine work cannot be furnished the inside labor for a portion of the first two hours, the operators may furnish other than regular labor for the unexpired time. The above was agreed to after the most careful discussion of each item, and we believe it to be the best and most equi- table solution of the questions involved, taking into considera- tion the various interests to be harmonized in order to reach a uniform scale. It is expected that all the prices and conditions shall be strictly adhered to by both operators and miners. Signed; S. M. Dalzell, Chairman. T. L. Lewis, Secretary. Committee on behalf of operators : Illinois — S. M. Dalzell and A. Moorshead. Indiana — Jos. H. McClelland and P. H. Penna. Indiana Block — W. W. Risher. Ohio — J. S. Morton and W. J. Mullins. Pennsylvania — G. W. Schluederberg and John A. O’Neil. Committee on behalf of miners : Illinois — John M. Hunter and W. D. Ryan. Indiana Block — Barney Navin. Indiana Bituminous — J. H. Kennedy and W. G. Knight. Ohio — W. E. Farms and T. L. Lewis. Pennsylvania — P. Dolan and Wm. Warner. On behalf of the United Mine Workers of America: M. D. Ratchford, President. W. C. Pearce, Secretary. Speaking of the agreement the president said : Tenth National Annual Convention' 637 “It has advanced wag'es generally, about eighteen per cent, reduced the hours of labor almost in the same ratio; it re- duced the size of screens and to a v,ery great extent abolished them entirely. It equalized wages and made conditions uni- form and the eight-hour day he said is a fixed principle that will never be surrendered but would be fought out until it became permanent in every branch of trade and industry.” The report spoke harshly of the West Virginia situation and the position taken by the operators there because of their refusal to join in the interstate plan of adjusting grievances together with the many impositions practiced by them in their unscrupulous methods to prevent organization through the thug detective agencies they employed. The president’s re- port contained circulars sent out in the interest of the 3,000 Pittsburg miners for aid .and support to help them while con- tending against operators that refused to live up to the Chi- cago agreement in the payment of wages agreed to, jointly. On the United Mine Workers Journal it said: “As a re- sult of your action of last year and other changes made af- fecting the cost of publication, I am pleased to say is not only self sustaining, but it is also a handsome source of revenue to our organization. The president closed his report as follows : The joint convention next week from every indication will be well attended and it is to be hoped it will reach an agree- ment by which peace may be assured during the coming year. The advantages of our joint relations as pointed out briefly in this report and as felt from the experience of the past year, I am sure will impel you to preserve and continue such rela- tions so long as you And them advantageous. I shall be with you during the session, and to this end will gladly give what assistance I can. You will notice that in this report I have carefully avoided the making of any recommendations as to the future policy of our organization. This you may be assured is not due to any lack of interest on my part, but is rather due to my retire- ment from office and to the fact that as such, I deem it im- proper to commit in any way, or to any plan, the man or men whom you may elect to lead you in the future. I prefer that they be free so far as possible, and that with your advice and support, in season and out of season, which is hereby re- quested, they declare their own policy and carry the same into practice. 638 United Mine Workers of America In this regard suffer me to say that my retirement from office means in no sense the severance of my connections with you or your constituency, or my retirement from the labor movement. It simply contemplates my removal into another field of labor, where your interests are considered and dis- cussed and will need protection, and in which I hope to render you greater service than ever before. You may always be assured that my voice and pen shall be ever ready to defend you in the future as in the past, in all things honorable and fair. While treating with this subject I wish to call attention to the work outlined by the Industrial Commission, also to ex- press thanks and assurances of appreciation to our chief executive, who has so unhesitatingly given our craftsmen such a distinctive recognition. The work of investigation is sub-divided under five sepa- rate heads, including Agriculture and Agricultural Labor, Manufacturing and General Business, Conditions of Labor and Capital in Mining, on Transportation, and on Statistics. The topical plan of inquiry in each case is so comprehensive as to insure the greatest possible investigation of the condi- tions affecting labor and capital in their relations to each other. Should this policy be carried out to the end, as I firmly be- lieve it will, there is reason for the hope that many of the wrongs under which we suffer today will soon be removed, therefore I earnestly ask your co-operation in the work of the Industrial Commission. In conclusion permit me to impart to you and through you to the miners everywhere my most profound feelings of grati- tude. Indeed, the thought of even a temporary absence from those with whom we have been so long and so closely asso- ciated, brings with it a memory of the years we stood together in defense of the cause we believed and still believe is right. True, we had our differences, and may have them in the future, as is the case in all other organized bodies. We may have also made our mistakes and errors as all men will who have so much to do, and so many to please. In this we may recall with profit the words of the ancient monarch, to illus- trate our purposes: “He who has much to do will do some- thing wrong, and for that wrong must suffer the consequences, and if it were possible that he should always act rightly, yet when such numbers are to judge of his actions, the bad will censure and obstruct him by malevolence, and the good some- times by mistake.” It is due, however, to say that in my whole experience I can not recall a single official act influenced by Tenth National Annual Convention 639 any cause, other than would not again be taken under the same circumstances. There are many questions with -y^hich this report has not dealt that will doubtless come up for discussion. My purpose has been to treat only with questions of a general character, and review the most important work performed, as fully as time and space would allow. For a more detailed report I refer you to that of your Secretary-Treasurer, and to your Vice-President, who will also review the progress made dur- ing that part of the year not covered by this report. My relations with my fellow officers throughout the year, and with others whom I have met, and especially with the office force, with whom I have been mostly in touch, has been of the most cordial nature. To all I wish the greatest possible success in whatever walk of life they may hereafter be placed. Having thus presented a report of the various subjects which I deem most worthy of your consideration, I now rest the matter in your hands, and respectfully ask your assistance in conducting the affairs of this great convention. Respect- fully submitted, M. D. Ratchford, President. The report of Acting President John Mitchell covered the remaining part of the year from September until the end of the term. After an explanation of the causes for President Ratchford’s resignation and the action of the National Execu- tive Board in electing him to serve as president he said in part: Organizers were sent into new fields, old and defunct dis- tricts were revived, that three months ago there was not a local union in Kansas, Arkansas or Indian Territory, where the membership had reached 1,800 and Iowa had increased its membership at a commendable rate. Among the most notable and successful strikes was on the Monongahela river in Pennsylvania contending for the scale price of 66 cents per ton jointly agreed to by operators and miners at the Chicago conference. Through a proposition made by River Operator J. Jones to arbitrate the question, and agreed to by the national union, three Allegheny county judges decided that the price should be 66 cents per ton and the decision rendered had the effect of breaking the strike, other operators conceding the advance later on. In the central Kentucky district where a prolonged con- tention had been waged between operators, some owning chain and others punching machines, the question was referred to the miners’ national executive board for adjustment. On the operators’ appearance at the miners’ national office by re- 640 United Mine Workers of America quest, after a consultation of the operators the case was post- poned and two weeks later it was reported that all operators would pay the scale demanded by the miners. At Tracy City, Tennessee, a strike of considerable propor- tions took place, the miners striking against the continuation of the sub-contract system. W. R. Fairley, president of the Alabama organization, was instructed to proceed to Tracy City, and attempt to effect settlement of differences there. It is a pleasure to report that his efforts were successful in bring- ing about a settlement and securing the abolition of the sub- contract system of mining coal. In this settlement the workers who had formerly been victims of the sub-contract system secured an advance in wages from 20% cents per ton to 34% cents. The number of men whose wages were advanced by the settlement amounted to 46 per cent of all the employes of the company. In southern Iowa, just as soon as our organ- ization secured a foothold there, a demand was made and an advance secured of 10 cents per ton. In Illinois, 5,000 miners were compelled to strike for enforcement of scale rates in the beginning of the scale year, 3,000 of whom were still on strike when we assumed charge of affairs. Since that time nearly all places have been successful in securing scale rates, and work has resumed. In connection with the Illinois strikes it is with much re- gret that we report the sad calamity at Virden, Illinois, which resulted in the loss of eight lives of union miners and the wounding of many others. This conflict was brought about by the operators of the Chicago- Virden Coal Company at- tempting to import non-union labor from Alabama to take the place of the strikers. The union miners had gathered en masse from all surrounding towns at the city of Virden for the pur- pose of inducing by lawful means the imported laborers to return to their homes. As soon as the train arrived convey- ing this horde of cheap, non-union labor, the union miners gathered at the depot to receive them, when the armed guards who accompanied these scabs from St. Louis, opened fire upon the defenseless and unsuspecting union miners, killing them right and left. The union miners, at last compelled as a mat- ter of self-preservation, returned the fire and not less than ten of these armed thugs were killed and many more wounded, the exact number we have been unable to ascertain. This un- fortunate conflict had the effect of preventing the company importing other men to take the places of the strikers, and a short time afterwards they made an unconditional surrender to your organization. In this connection we feel that this re- port would not be complete were we not to say a word of com- mendation of the action of the Honorable John R. Tanner, Gov- Tenth National Annual Convention 641 ernor of the State of Illinois, who, during the progress of the Virden strike, persistently refused to send the state troops to assist the coal companies to operate their mines with cheap, imported labor. Without his assistance it is very doubtful whether the miners would have been successful in winning this strike. The great metropolitan capitalistic press has been unceasing in its denunciation of the action of the Gov- ernor. We would recommend that appropriate resolutions be adopted by the convention expressing our commendation of the position taken by Governor Tanner. Many other stub- bornly contested strikes were also won in Illinois, among which were the strikes at Auburn, Greenridge, Nil wood, Centralia and many other places. There is still a very important strike in progress at Pana, Illinois, which we believe should receive the attention of the convention. Five hundred and fifty em- ployes of the Pana Coal Companies have been idle since April 1, demanding scale rates. The companies have imported a large number of non-union laborers from the Southern States, who are now at work in the mines. The strikers in Illinois have been very liberally supported by their more fortunate brethren who have been at work by the contribution of 10 per cent of their gross earnings. At Washington, Indiana, the strike that was inaugurated twenty months ago is still in prog- ress, the union miners still standing as firm as the first day they suspended work. We would recommend that the executive board be increased by adding two members, and that the time for holding our annual convention be from the second to the third Monday in January. We would also recommend that the constitution be so amended that the national annual convention of the United Mine Workers of America be held at the city in which our headquarters are located, and the consolidation of the United Mine Workers of America, with the Western Federation of Miners. In conclusion, permit me to draw your attention to the fact that in this convention there are representatives present from thirteen states and one territory of the Union, and that sixteen districts are now organized and doing active work in our organization. For a number of years not more than five states have been represented in our annual convention. Our experience justifies us in saying that such results could only be achieved by the persistent work of board members and organizers. Since assuming the presidency of the organiza- tion our time, day and night, has been our fellow craftsmen’s to command, and we can only add that whatever condition in life we may find ourselves ^)laced in that the interests and wel- fare of our brother miners will be our first consideration, and 642 United Mine Workers of America if we can be of service in making life more pleasant by in- creasing their comfort and happiness and bringing joy and gladness into their homes instead of gloom and sadness, that too frequently finds a resting place there, our lives will not have been spent in vain. We desire to acknowledge to each official colleague, and to the membership generally, our appreciation of the uniform courtesy accorded us during our official career. We have met with nothing but kindness, and for our successors we could desire nothing better. We have received information since this report was pre- pared that a satisfactory settlement of the Kentucky trouble has been reached. Trusting that our deliberations will be harmonious and that benefits like an overflowing river will accrue to our fel- low miners, I return to your keeping the trust your represen- tatives placed upon me. John Mitchell. secretary-treasurer’s report. The report of Secretary Pearce was very interesting, both financially and otherwise. It was filled with consolation and good cheer over the advances made in membership and fi- nance. The secretary said he was proud to report the many new unions organized. The stoiy of the year he said was one of the most satisfactory in history. His financial report covered pages of matter in detail tell- ing of the sources from which money had been received and expended. The following is a summary of the secretary’s report found and reported by the auditing committee : ANNUAL REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE. Indianapolis, Indiana, Jan. 6, 1899. We, your auditors, after careful examination of the books of Secretary-Treasurer W. C. Pearce, submit the following re- port : Receipts. Balance in treasui'v January 1, 1S9S .$10.812. IS Taxes 39,482.40 Supplies 3,926.49 Journal 5,161.94 Miscellaneous 1,226.32 Total — — $60,609.33 Tenth National Annual Convention 643 Expenses. Officers’ salaries and expenses, 1898 • $23,241.08 Supplies, 1898 7,096.77 Office expenses 1,248.71 Telegraph, postage and express, 1898 • 1,905.08 Miscellaneous, 1898 4,227.38 Total $37,719.02 Balance in treasury Jan. 1, 1899 $22,890.31 We also wish to say that it affords us great pleasure to re- port that the books are kept systematically and accurately. And we further wish to call the attention of the members of the convention and of their constituents to this gratifying fact that Brother Pearce has faithfully carried out the trust that the ninth annual convention confided to him. We also desire to compliment Brother Pearce and the rest of the na- tional officers for the efficient and economical management of the financial interests of the organization, and the heroic ef- forts by which they and others have built up the magnificent organization which is today represented by this convention. (Signed) Emanuel Dixon, Fred Powell, Auditors. Indianapolis, Jan. 6, 1899. This is to certify that Mr. W. C. Pearce had on deposit in this bank $22,890.31 on December 31, 1898. (Signed) W. F. Churchman, Cashier Capital National Bank. The reports were all referred to the committee on officers’ reports. After the reports of officers had been read and referred to the proper committee, the investigating committee not being ready to report the convention adjourned. SATURDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by President Ratchford. The manner in which some of the newspapers had reported the previous day’s proceedings gave rise to considerable feel- ing among the delegates and the following resolutions were passed : Whereas, The press of this city, excepting the Leader, Tele- graph and Times, has given the public a prejudicial report only of the proceedings of this convention. 644 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That this convention enter its protest against such action, and that we request each newspaper in the city to send such reporter as will hereafter report our proceedings correctly; further Resolved, That reporters of any and all papers failing to give the facts shall be promptly excluded from this conven- tion. Motion, that M. D. Ratchford be requested to retain the presidency of this convention until the adjournment of the interstate joint convention. Carried. President Ratchford took the floor and in a few brief re- marks outlined his position before the convention. In his remarks he stated that a plan had been suggested to have him ousted from the convention even before the election of his suc- cessor, alleging unconstitutionality of his presidency at this time on account of holding place on Interstate Industrial Com- mission. COMMITTEES APPOINTED. Committee on Officers’ Reports — H. Stephenson, G. Savage, James Boston. Committee on Constitution — W. D. Ryan, W. C. Webb, J. P. Reese, Mark Roberts, W. H. Crawford. Committee on Appeals and Grievances — William Warner, John Green, John Reynolds, T. I. Roberts, Fred Dilcher. Committee on Resolutions — W. R. Fairley, W. C. Scott, Alex. Suttie, Ed McKay, James Cantwell, J. M. Smith. Transportation Committee — J. H. Kennedy, Thomas Duffy, F. P. Bishop, William Morgan, A. Struble. Scale Committee — J. M. Hunter, B. Navin, Wm. Van Horn, W. H. Haskins, Pat Dolan, J. F. Ream, J. M. Lewis, Geo. Shackert, P. Doney. Secretary Pearce then read the following letter from Jas. W. Kilduff, thanking the delegates for the donation sent him through Brothers Dolan and Dilcher. Pittsburg, Pa., Jan. 13, 1899. W. C. Pearce, Esq., Secretary-Treasurer United IMine Workers of America. Dear Sir and Brother : I beg leave to acknowledge receipt from Brothers Patrick Dolan and Fred Dilcher of $51.00, so Tenth National Annual Convention 645 kindly contributed by the members of your convention. While no humble words of mine can properly express my feelings towards all the brothers for their kindness, the best that I can now offer them is my earnest arid heartfelt thanks. Hop- ing your organization will accomplish its aims and objects, I am, yours in the cause. James W. Kilduff. KEPORT OF COMMITTEE ON OFFICER’S REPORTS. Pittsburg, Pa., Jan. 14, 1899. To the Officers and Representatives in Convention Assembled : Gentlemen — We, your committee on officers’ reports, beg leave to submit the following : That after examining the report of President Ratchford, we would heartily concur in his work during his official term of office, and most heartily hope that his wishes in regard to the eight-hour workday may be carried out, and that every mine worker will use every effort in his power to establish the eight-hour workday in every mine in the United States ; and we further concur in his action and work done in boycotting non- union coal of West Virginia, and recommend that the incom- ing officers use every effort in their power to induce consumers not to use non-union coal from any state until the miners are paid scale rates, and secure the same conditions as those existing in all organized coal fields. And we, your committee, further concur in the recommen- dation of Acting President Mitchell in regard to the consolida- tion of our organization with the Western Federation of Miners, and that organizers be placed in the field for the above purpose. And we further concur in the recommendation that suit- able resolutions be drafted, engrossed and presented to his Excellency, Governor Tanner, of Illinois. And, owing to the spread of our organization, your com- mittee concur in the recommendation of Acting President Mit- chell in regard to the addition of two members to the National Executive Board; and we also approve of his recommenda- tion that our annual convention be held the third Monday in January. We, your committee, realizing the increased work of our Secretary-Treasurer, W. C. Pearce, owing to the large and in- creased membership and responsibilities, do heartily endorse and commend his official work, which is a credit to our organ- ization. We recommend that the reports of our President, Act- ing President and Secretary-Treasurer be made and become a 646 United Mine Workers of America part of the proceedings of this convention. Respectfully sub- mitted, H. Stephenson, Jas. Boston, G. Savage, Committee. Secretary Calverly, of original credential committee, sub- mitted the following minority report : We, the credential committee, beg leave to state that as we understand the constitution it was utterly impossible for us to place on the list some of the local unions, that are recommended by the committee appointed by this convention as an investi- gating committee as entitled to vote in this convention. It will be noticed that quite a number of local unions have been placed on the list asking a seat and vote other than those re- ported by either the credential or investigating committees, and as was previously stated, we were guided by the laws and constitution of our organization in this matter. Further, we find that local unions in large numbers located in the Pittsburg district are placed on the list asking full representation in this convention, vested with all the powers enjoyed by local unions whose rights to representation are unquestionable in this convention. We feel that we should be guilty of establishing a very dangerous precedent were we to concur in recommending the seating of delegates touching on these locals not previously reported. Signed by credential committee, Joseph Smart, Walter R. Calverly, P. J. Keenan. After considerable discussion the report was adopted. Committee on Investigation — A1 Struble, W. R. Fairley, Jacob Stanley. Adjourned for dinner. SATURDAY AFTERNOON. Convention called to order by President Ratchford. Chair appointed Ed Soppett and Wm. Turner sergeants- at-arms. After several announcements had been made the conven- tion adjourned until Monday morning. Tenth National Annual Convention 647 MONDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by Vice-President Mitchell. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS. Gentlemen : We, your committee, beg leave to submit the following for your consideration : Whereas, In view of the fact of the enormous increase in the m*embership of our organization, the standing financially and numerically is such as to warrant a reduction in the per capita tax ; therefore, be it Resolved, That the per capita tax be reduced to five cents per month. Moved by Lewis to non-concur in committee’s report and adopt resolution. Delegate V/atchorn spoke in favor of the present per capita tax. Delegate Lewis explained his reasons for making motion. Delegate John McBride spoke in favor of committee’s recommendation, and against the Lewis mo- tion. Lost. Motion by Stephenson to concur in committee report. Car- ried. The following resolutions were adopted : Whereas, The anthracite coal field at the present time has a very small portion of the total number of miners employed in the mining of anthracite coal in this organization, and at the earnest request of said miners, be it Resolved, That every effort be put forth the coming year to have the organization strengthened in this section, that they may act in unity with the bituminous miners, and pre- vent a recurrence of what has been practiced in former years by the operators, that of using the miners of one section to defeat another in time of trouble. Resolved, That it shall be the duty of all checkweighmen to keep a record of weights of coal passing over the tipple of the mine where a checkweighman is employed, and also to keep the weight of all pit cars and all railroad cars being loaded with coal at the mines, where checkweighmen are employed, and that he shall be required to give a correct report of same and each month or whenever called upon to do so, said report to be forwarded by Local Secretary to District Secretary. The report of delegates to the American Federation of Labor being called for. Acting President Mitchell submitted the following report : 648 United Mine Workers of America Among the resolutions adopted may be mentioned: Reaffirming the favorable attitude of the Federation on the free coinage of silver. Endorsing a bill providing that all battleships, cruisers, etc., and all naval equipment for use of the government shall be constructed in the navy yards belonging to the United States. Instructing the council to appropriate money for organiza- tion purposes in the inter-mountain states. Reaffirming the Federation’s endorsements of all union labels of affiliated bodies. Memorializing congress to enact into law House Bill 7389 providing for a uniform eight-hour day on government work Condemning the Allen law, and commending the gallani stand made by the people of Chicago in their efforts to obtain municipal ownership and operation of street railways. Providing for the issuance of a circular to all affiliated bodies drawing attention to the unfair publishing firms of Donohue & Henneberry of Chicago, 111. ; W. B. Conkey, of Hammond, Ind. ; and Hudson & Kimberley, of Kansas City, Mo. Recognizing the Baltimore branch of the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators as the regular organization, and classing the Lafayette faction as seceders. Endorsing the patriotic stand taken by John R. Tanner, Governor of Illinois, in protecting the rights, liberties and lives of citizens of that state against the invasion of an armed mob, and expressing to him the heartfelt thanks of the Federation for the precedent established for the cause of organized labor. Requesting all organizations affiliated with the American Federation to take the necessary steps to secure the establish- ing of the postal telegraph or the government ownership of the telegraph and instructing the legislative committee of the American Federation of Labor to make government ownership of the telegraph a preferred measure, and co-operate with the International Typographical Union in securing the enactment of the desired law. Petitioning the President of the United States to pardon E. W. Clark, on the ground that he has suffered sufficiently to meet the demands of justice. The number of strikes was reported at 260, of which 160 were won, 29 compromised, 36 lost and 35 are pending: workers involved, 22,311, of whom 19,367 were benefited. The total receipts for the year were $22,588.59, and the expendi- tures $19,917.17, leaving a balance of $3,391.42 on November 1, 1898. Tenth National Annual Convention 649 A motion to adopt the report brought on considerable discussion. Vote resulted in its adoption. Motion to suspend the rules an4 elect three auditors as provided by constitution. The following were elected: Emanual Dixon, John J. Mossop, Samuel Pascoe. Motion that Brothers Harris and McGowan be given a seat and voice in joint convention. Carried. Adjourned until Tuesday morning. TUESDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by President Ratchford. Resolutions adopted: Resolved, That this convention heartily endorses the union stamp of the Boot and Shoe Workers’ Union, and especially commends the friendly act of the Hon. W. L. Douglas ; Resolved, That we sympathize with our brothers of Marl- boro, Mass., and we hereby pledge ourselves and our mem- bers to purchase no shoes but those which bear the union stamp. As it is impossible for us as miners to get printed matter such as weigh sheets and monthly reports printed by union labor in certain districts ; therefore be it Resolved, That we, as miners, recommend that where it is impossible to get such matter done by union labor, that we have National Secretary-Treasurer W. C. Pearce purchase same as per our order ; and further, be it Resolved, That we ask all local unions to have their print- ing done only by those using the Typographical label. Be it resolved, that our executive officers are hereby advised to use all the means at their disposal toward organizing the non-union miners and mine laborers of this country before April 1, 1899, especially Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Resolved, That a sign of recognition be used whereby members may know each other. Whereas, The miners of Local Union 39, situated at Wash- ington, Ind., have been on strike for one year and nine months, said strike endorsed by the district officials, and have ex- hausted all means in their power to bring about a settlement ; •therefore, be it Resolved, That said strike be declared a national strike, and the incoming officers are instructed to use all honorable means to bring victory to the Washington miners. JOHN MITCHELL, NATIONAL PRESIDENT, ELECTED JANUARY, 1899. T. W. DAVIS, EDITOR JOURNAL, 1897, 1898. VICE-PRESIDENT, 1899. 652 United Mine Workers of America Credentials presented by Jacob Heckman and Jas. A. Mur- ray were accepted and delegates given seats. Officers elected: For President — John Mitchell; Vice- President — T. W. Davis; Secretary-Treasurer — W. C. Pearce. For Executive Board — Fred Dilcher, Henry Stephenson, Ed- ward McKay, W. R. Fairley, James Boston, George W. Pur- cell. Delegates to American Federation of Labor Convention — John Hunter, W. C. Pearce, John Mitchell, William Warner. The following communication was then read from the operators’ meeting: Pittsburg, Pa., Jan. 17, 1899. To the Officers and Members of the U. M. W. of A. : Gentlemen — We are directed to inform you that the opera- tors of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois will meet you in joint convention at Carnegie Hall, at 2 o’clock p. m. today. Also to say further that if it is desired after organizing to take a recess until tomorrow morning the operators will not object. Yours, etc., Walter S. Bogle, Chairman. C. E. SCROGGS, Secretary. Motion to adjourn to meet operators at 2 o’clock in Car- negie Music Hall, Allegheny. Carried. AFTERNOON SESSION. After the necessary preliminaries were arranged at the joint convention of operators and miners, adjournment was taken, miners returning to their usual place of meeting, and resumed the regular order of business. After the scale committee had reported in executive ses- sion, the convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by President John IMitchell, who announced an executive session to hear further report of scale committee. The scale committee reported and were succeeded by com- mittee on resolutions, who reported as follows : Inasmuch as we think that a larger circulation of the Journal, the official organ of the United Mine Workers of Tenth National Annual Convention 653 America, would serve to keep alive the interest and enthusiasm of the rank and file in our local unions ; therefore be it Resolved, That it is the sense ®f this convention that it would be to our interest to advance the per capita tax to 15 cents per month and send the paper free to each member as long as they are in good standing ; therefore be it further Resolved, That the secretary be instructed to send out blanks to each local union and take a vote on this proposition, and if a majority favor the proposal, it be put into effect as soon as practicable. The committee reported unfavorable, and their report was agreed to. Resolved, That a Slavonian organizer be appointed to can- vass from one state to another for the purpose of explaining to the Slavonian, Polish and other foreign members the rules and regulations of the organization, in their own language, knowing that great and profitable results would be the effect of such an appointment. Adopted. Resolved, That all miners of the United Mine Workers be prohibited from entering the mines on idle days. Agreed to. Whereas, John R. Tanner, Governor of the State of Illi- nois, has taken an advanced step in the interest of our work- ing people, by the prevention of the importation of armed guards to protect certain coal operators of the State of Illi- nois who were attempting to operate their mines with unfair labor and contrary to the provisions of our agreement; there- fore be it Resolved, That we do most heartily endorse the action of said John R. Tanner, believing that said action is to the best interest of the human family, and especially the working peo- ple ; be it further Resolved, That we recommend his honorable example to other officials under like circumstances ; also. Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to the Hon. John R. Tanner, and that they become a part of the proceedings of this convention. Adopted. 654 United Mine Workers of America Whereas, Our retiring President, Hon. M. D. Ratchford, has given us an honorable and successful administration. And whereas, we believe that by his careful and considerate man- agement of pur affairs many blessings have rebounded to us as a craft, and also to our families, and largely through his earnest effort we obtained the priceless eight-hour work-day. Therefore, be it Resolved, That we, in convention assembled, do most earn- estly tender him our appreciation of his valuable services in our behalf, giving him our hearty thanks, and wishing him success in future life. And we further recommend that he be made an honorary member of this organization. Respectfully submitted, W. R. Fairley, President. W. C. Scott, Secretary, James Cantwell, Joseph M. Smith, Edward McKay, Alex. Suttee, Committee. Moved to adopt by a rising vote. Carried. Committee on resolutions reported that their labors were concluded. Motion to discharge the committee carried with thanks of the convention. The convention then adjourned to meet at Carnegie Hall, Allegheny. WEDNESDAY EVENING. Convention called to order by President John Mitchell. At this point the following telegram from President Samuel Gompers, of the American Federation of Labor was read : Washington, D. C., Jan. 18, 1899. John Mitchell, Old City Hall, Pittsburg: Urge miners’ convention to pass motion endorsing eight- hour bill (H. B. 7389) passed by House and pending in Senate committee on education and labor. Have motion telegraphed to following Senators: Kyle, Turley, Mantle, Gear, Perkins, Penrose, Cannon, Caffrey, Lindsay, insisting upon a report and passage of the bill. Telegraph at our expense. Samuel Gompers. On motion the telegram was received and officers in- structed to comply therewith. Tenth National Annual Convention 655 Moved that we suspend the constitution and elect two members of the board by standing vote. Carried. T. L. Lewis voting in the negative. The election of Benjamin James and John P. Reese was made unanimous, and the convention adjourned. THURSDAY MORNING. Convention called to order by Vice-President T. W. Davis. Motion to donate $500 to the striking shoemakers of Marl- borough, Mass., was adopted. A motion was made and adopted that the resolutions in the hands of the committee on constitution, not acted on, be returned to the authors. Convention adjourned. FRIDAY AFTERNOON. Convention called to order with President Mitchell in the chair. The chair stated that under the constitution it was neces- sary to elect a committee on credentials consisting of three members. The following were elected : H. A. Banning, P. J. Keenan, John Fahy. The constitution adopted in full follows : CONSTITUTION AND LAWS OF THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA — REVISION 1899. Preamble. There is no fact more generally known, or more widely be- lieved, than that without coal there would not have been any such grand achievements, privileges and blessings as those which characterize the ninteenth century civilization, and be- lieving as we do, that those whose lot it is to daily toil in the recesses of the earth, mining and putting out this coal which makes these blessings possible, are entitled to a fair and equitable share of the same; therefore, we have formed “The United Mine Workers of America,” for the purpose of the more readily securing the objects sought by educating all mine workers in America to realize the necessity of unity of action and purpose, in demanding and securing by lawful means the just fruits of oiir toil. And we hereby declare to the world that our objects are — 656 United Mine Workers of America First — To secure an earning fully compatible with the dangers of our calling and the labor performed. Second — To establish as speedily as possible, and forever, our right to receive pay, for labor performed, in lawful money, and to rid ourselves of the iniquitous system of spending our money wherever our employers see fit to designate. Third — To secure the introduction of any and all well de- fined and established appliances for the preservation of life, health and limbs of all mine employes. Fourth — To reduce to the lowest possible minimum the awful catastrophes which have been sweeping our fellow- craftsmen to untimely graves by the thousands; by securing legislation looking to the most perfect system of ventilation, drainage, etc. Fifth — To enforce existing laws; and where none exist, enact and enforce them; calling for a plentiful supply of suitable timber for supporting the roof, pillars, etc., and to have all working places rendered as free from water and im- pure air and poisonous gases as possible. Sixth — To uncomprisingly demand that eight hours shall constitute a day’s work, and that not more than eight hours shall be worked in any one day by any mine worker. The very nature of our employment, shut out from the sunlight and pure air, working by the aid of artificial light (in no instance to exceed one candle power), would, in itself, strongly indicate that, of all men, a coal miner has the most righteous claim to an eight-hour day. Seventh — To provide for the education of our children by lawfully prohibiting their employment until they have at- tained a reasonably satisfactory education, and in every case until they have attained fourteen years of age. Eighth — To abrogate all laws which enable coal opera- tors to cheat the miners, and to substitute laws which enable the miner, under the protection and majesty of the state, to have his coal properly weighed or measured, as the case may be. Ninth — To secure, by legislation, weekly payments in law- ful money. Tenth — To render it impossible, by legislative enactment in every state (as is now the case in the State of Ohio), for coal operators or corporations to employ Pinkerton detectives or guards, or other forces (except the ordinary forces of the state) to take armed possession of the mines in cases of strikes or lockouts. Eleventh — To use all honorable means to maintain peace between ourselves and employers; adjusting all differences, National Constitution, 1899 657 as far as possible, by arbitration and conciliation, that strikes may become unnecessary. CONSTITUTION^ Article I. — Name, Objects and Jurisdiction. Section 1. This organization shall be known as the Uni- ted Mine Workers of America. Sec. 2. The objects of this union are to unite all mine em- ployes and ameliorate their condition by methods of concilia- tiontion, arbitration or strikes. Sec. 3. This union shall have jurisdiction over all its local unions, which shall be governed in all trade matters by this constitution. Article II. — Officers and Their Duties. Section 1. The officers of this union shall be one Presi- dent, one Vice-President, one Secretary-Treasurer and an Executive Board of eleven members, three of whom shall be the President, Vice-President and Secretary-Treasurer, and three Auditors, who shall be elected at each annual conven- tion, all of whom shall receive a majority of all votes cast, before they be declared elected. Sec. 2. The President shall preside at all general conven- tions of the union ; he shall sign all bills and official documents, when satisfied of their correctness; he shall, with the consent of the Executive Board, fill by appointment any vacancies oc- curring in the national offices, and in a like manner he is em- powered to suspend or remove any national officer for insub- ordination or just and sufficient cause; he shall, with the con- sent of the Executive Board, appoint from time to time such organizers and workers as may be required; he shall devote his time and attention to the interests of the union, and exer- cise general supervision of its workings, either in the field or in the National office, as his judgment dictates or the ex- igencies of the case require. He shall semi-annually name the password for the use of local unions. Sec. 3. The Vice-President shall act as general organizer, and shall be under the direction of the President, and shall succeed that officer in case of death or removal from office. Sec. 4. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of and preserve all books, documents and effects of the national of- fice; shall record proceedings of all conventions and of the meetings of the Executive Board, and shall keep copies of im- portant letters sent out by him; he shall receive and receipt for all moneys, pay all bills and current expenses, when at- tested by the President; he shall prepare and submit to the 658 United Mine Workers of America locals a quarterly report of all moneys received and disbursed, and perform such other duties as may be assigned him; he shall give a bond of $5,000 for the safe keeping of all moneys entrusted to him, but he shall not have more than $2,500 subject to his order at any one time. All other funds must be deposited by him, subject to the order of the Executive Board. He shall semi-annually send to all State and District Sec- retaries the password, whose duty it shall be to transmit it to such locals that may be in good standing in his state or dis- trict ; it shall be the duty of all parties receiving this password in writing to destroy it at once and no one shall transmit it without the proper authority. Sec. 5. The Executive Board shall constitute a National Board of Arbitration and Conciliation ; shall execute the orders of National Conventions, and between conventions shall have full power to direct the workings of the union. The board shall be convened by the President or by the Secretary-Treas- urer, at the request of four members of the Board. Article III. Section 1. The revenue of the National Union shall be derived from local unions, which shall pay direct to the Sec- retary-Treasurer ten (10) cents per month per member; frac- tional members shall pay in proportion. The local Secretary shall fill out and forward to the National and District Secre- taries a monthly report of the members in good standing in the local union; said report to be forwarded to the National and District Secretaries on or before the 25th of each month. Sec. 2. In filling out the monthly report, the local Secre- tary shall report to the national office, on blanks furnished for that purpose, the amount of money paid and the number of members reported to the district, and to the district office the amount of money paid and the number of members re- ported to the national Secretary. Sec. 3. The National Convention shall be held annually on the third Monday in January, at such place as may be de- termined upon by the preceding convention. Special conven- tions shall be called by the President, when so instructed by the Executive Board, or at the request of three districts. Sec. 4. Representatives to the National Convention shall be elected directly from local unions, and shall have one vote for 100 members or less, and an additional vote for each 100 members or majority fraction thereof, but no representative shall have more than five votes, and no person shall be eligible as representative who is not a miner or mine laborer, or em- ployed by the organization, and is a bona fide member of a local Union in district where said delegate resides. National Constitution, 1899 659 Sec. 5. No local union shall be entitled to representation in the National Convention that is in arrears for dues or as- sessments for three (3) months preceding the month in which the National Convention is held, and who has not in every particular complied with the constitution of the district in which said local union may be located, or which has less than 10 members, and any mine within the territory under the jurisdiction of the United Mine Workers, having been once organized for a period of three months, and allowing itself to become lapsed, defunct, or refusing to pay dues to the or- ganization, shall and must be in good standing for a period of six months previous to the meeting of the annual conven- tion, before said local union shall be entitled to representa- tion in the annual or special conventions of the national or district organizations. All newly organized locals must be organized at least three months and have two months’ dues paid prior to the holding of the National Convention. Sec. 6. No locals shall be exempt from paying per capita tax unless they have been idle one month. In all cases where local unions desire exoneration from dues, same request shall be signed by the President, Secretary and Mine Committee, and have seal of local attached, and be placed on tile by Na- tional and District Secretaries. Sec. 7. President and Executive Board shall not employ any organizer or Journal agent or editor of Journal who is not a miner or mine laborer and a member in good standing of a local union, except the editor of the foreign languages. Sec. 8. Any salaried officer of the United Mine Workers of America accepting the nomination for a political office or an appointment to a political office shall immediately resign his position as an officer of the organization of the United Mine Workers of America, and should such officer refuse to resign it shall be the duty of the Executive Board to declare said office vacant. Should the Executive Board fail to comply with the section, they shall be guilty of violating the laws of the organization and shall not be eligible to re-election to any position in the organization. Article IV. — Strikes. Section 1. When trouble of a local character arises be- tween members of any local union and their employers, the officers of said locals shall endeavor to effect an amicable adjustment, and failing in this they shall immediately notify the officers of the district to which the affected locals are at- tached, and said district officers shall immediately investigate the cause of complaint, and failing to effect a peaceable settle- ment upon a basis that would be equitable and just to ag- 660 United Mine Workers of America grieved members, finding that a strike would best subserve the interests of the locality affected, they may order the in- auguration of a strike, but no local strike shall be legalized or supported by a district unless its inauguration was ap- proved by the officers of the district, or by the National Ex- ecutive Board upon an appeal taken by the aggrieved mem- bers from the decision of the district officers ; any local union striking in violation of the above provisions shall not be sus- tained or recognized by national office or officers. Sec. 2. Before final action is taken by any district upon questions that directly or indirectly affect the interests of the mine workers of another district, or that require a strike to determine, the President and the Secretary of the aggrieved district shall jointly prepare, sign and forward to the Na- tional President a written statement setting forth the griev- ance complained of, the action contemplated by the district, together with the reasons therefor, and the National Presi- dent shall, within five days after the receipt of such state- ment, either approve or disapprove of the action contem- plated by the aggrieved district, and such approval or disap- proval, together with reasons therefor, shall be made in writ- ing and a copy forwarded to the Secretary of the complain- ing district. Should the action contemplated by the aggrieved district receive the approval of the National President, the district shall be free to act, but should the National President disapprove the action contemplated the district may appeal to the National Executive Board, which shall be convened to consider such appeal within five days after its receipt by the National Secretary ; until the National President has approved or the National Executive Board has sustained the appeal, no district shall be free to enter upon a strike unless it shall have been ordered by a National Convention. Article Y. — Qualifications and Salary of Officers. Section 1. A member in good standing in the organiza- tion shall be eligible to hold office in the national union, pro- vided he is not a salaried officer of a district at the same time, and has been a member of a local union for six months prior to his election. Sec. 2. President, $1,200, and all legitimate expenses; Vice-President, $900, and all legitimate expenses; Secretarj^- Treasurer, $1,000, and all legitimate expenses; Executive Board, $2.50 per day and all legitimate expenses, when em- ployed by the President to work in the interest of the United Mine Workers of America. National Constitution, 1899 661 Article VI. Section 1. All nominations for national offices and dele- gates to the A. F. of L. shall be s^nt to the National Secre- tary not later than two months before the annual convention ; said nominations shall be compiled by him and sent out not later than six weeks prior to the convention, and no person shall be elected to any office unless his name has been sent to all locals as above specified. The National Secretary shall not publish the name and address of any candidate without first obtaining his consent. Delegates shall come to the conven- tion instructed to vote for candidates for the respective posi- tions. Immediately after the organization of the convention each delegate shall be supplied with a ballot to vote for all officers. Delegates shall prepare said ballot by inserting the names of his respective candidates under the respective headings with delegate’s name and number of local that he represents, with his number of votes written on the back. He shall deposit said ballot with the tellers (who shall be appointed by the chair) within three hours after ballots have been distributed. The tellers shall deposit said ballot within a ballot box made for the purpose. No ballot shall be received after the polls have been declared closed, and the ballot box to be locked and sealed by the President in the presence of the delegates of the convention until the tellers are ready to count said ballots. It shall be the duty of the tellers to count the ballots by report- ing upon a returning sheet, which the Secretary shall have prepared. Said report shall become a part of the proceedings of the convention. Sec. 2. No person, a member of the organization, who holds a financial or clearance card, showing him to be a finan- cial member (and in good standing), shall be debarred or hindered from obtaining work on account of race, creed or nationality ; and a clearance card from any legalized or recog- nized labor organization, anywhere, known to be friendly to the U. M. W of A., shall be accepted ; and any member leav- ing a local union and desirous of becoming a member in any other local union, must deposit a transfer card with Recording Secretary of the local in which he desires to be a member. Due cards or clearance cards shall not admit any person to mem- bership from one local of the U. M. W of A. to another. And, to protect the membership of individuals who are unable to pay their dues because of no local existing where they reside, the National, District and Sub-district Secretaries shall re- ceive dues from them and* issue to them the usual cards for the same. Sec. 3. Any local union, who shall wilfully violate the 662 United Mine Workers of America above, shall, if proven guilty, for the first offense be suspended from all rights and privileges for three months, and for the second offense, suspended for six months, or as long as it is deemed best by the National Executive Board. Sec. 4. That no charges shall be considered by any con- vention of the United Mine Workers unless such charges be preferred in writing to the Executive Board, who shall hear and determine, and report to the convention their finding. Sec. 5. Delegates to the National Convention shall be paid railroad fare to and from the convention on the following basis : Delegates shall represent five locals, if said locals con- tain not more than 500 members. When there are 500 mem- bers in one local, or in a less number than five locals, such local or locals shall be entitled to send a delegate. Locals isolated and who can not meet with other locals for the pur- pose of electing a delegate, shall be entitled to send a repre- sentative. The Executive Board shall have power to levy on the members to carry out the above provisions, provided said levy be necessary. Sec. 6. The national officers shall have power to change boundaries and jurisdiction of districts as the conditions may require between conventions; provided, however, that they consult the district officers of the districts that such change of boundaries and jurisdiction may affect; and in no case shall any such change be made until affected local or locals shall have paid all tax and assessments due to the district to which it or they are attached. Sec. 7. Three auditors shall be elected annually to ex- amine the books of the National Secretary quarterly and cause their report to be published in the United Mine Workers Jou7^nal, said auditors to hold no national or district offices. Sec. 8. The National Executive Board shall have power to order a general suspension at any time during the year that they deem it necessary. Sec. 9. Any member of the United Mine Workers of America accepting a position other than that of a miner or mine laborer, shall cease to be a member of this organization while holding such position, this not to apply to co-operative companies receiving the indorsement of the National Execu- tive Board. Article TIL Section 1. A Credential Committee of three to be elected by each annual convention, no two of whom shall be from the same state or district, whose duty it shall be to meet at na- tional headquarters not later than six days prior to the hold- ing of the annual convention to examine all credentials and books necessary to make a full and complete report of dele- Interstate Joint Conference 663 gates entitled to seats in such convention; said Credential Committee to receive $2.50 per day and all necessary expenses. After the adoption of the constitution as a whole, the special committee presented the following : Pittsburg, Pa., Jan. 20, 1899. Whereas, We believe that governments should derive their just powers from and by the consent of the governed, and as a means to that end, we favor popular vote on said proposi- tion and the result of said vote to be adopted or rejected at our next annual convention, and the National Secretary shall furnish locals with ballots for the above proposition. (Signed) John P. Reese, W. R. Fairley, John A. Smith. Motion to adopt. Carried. By unanimous standing vote Indianapolis, Indiana, was chosen as the city to hold the next annual convention. Motion that this convention adjourn sine die. The question was asked if this adjournment meant to give delegates an opportunity to go home who were outside of the competitive field ; the chair answered yes, and would not pre- vent the other delegates from meeting together on the ques- tion of joint agreement. Motion to adjourn sin die was carried unanimously. Attest: W. C. Pearce, Secretary. CHAPTER XXX. INTERSTATE JOINT CONFERENCE. Pittsburg, Pa., January 17, 1899. As per request of the miners’ convention. President M. D. Ratchford called the joint conference to order. Alexander Dempster was elected chairman, E. L. Scroggs and W. C. Pearce, Secretaries. On opening the convention. Chairman Dempster made a 664 United Mine Workers of America few very appropriate remarks, and expressed the hope that the joint contract would be renewed. The committees appointed follow ; Committee on Credentials — Illinois : Operators — J. T. Wil- liams, Lee Kincaid; Miners — W. R. Russell, W. T. Morris. Indiana: Operators — A. M. Ogle, Chas. A. Eastman; Miners — Emanuel Dixon, Samuel Boskill. Ohio: Operators — A. Cunningham, Theo. Fluhart; Miners — Albert Thorp, W. H. Crawford. Pennsylvania: Operators — H. C. Bughman, J. C. Dysart; Miners — Wm. Dodds, Edward Soppit. Committee on Rules and Regulations — Illinois : Operators — C. E. Hull, Richard Newsam; Miners — Samuel Pascoe, John Green. Indiana: Operators — J. S. Talley, Chas. B. Nib- lock ; Miners — T. I. Roberts, P. D. Roberts. Ohio : Operators — J. B. Zerbe, W. R. Woodford; Miners — John J. Mossop, Frederick Powell. Pennsylvania : Operators — Geo. W. Schleuderberg, G. L. Snowden; Miners — Louis Goaziou, James Watchorn. Upon motion the convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18, 1899. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Dempster at 2 o’clock p. m. The Committee on Credentials, Theo. Fluhart, Chairman-; W. R. Russell, Secretary, reported the following accredited delegates. Illinois : Operators, 68 ; Miners, 129. Indiana : Operators, 18; Miners, 33. Ohio: Operators, 33; Miners, 77. Pennsyl- vania: Operators, 95; Miners, 66. Total, 214. Delegates were also reported from other states as follows: Miners: Alabama, 5; Arkansas, 2; Kansas, 1; Kentucky, 4; Iowa, 4; Tennessee, 2; West Virginia, 4; Indian Territoiy, 2. Opera- tors: Kentucky, 4. It was recommended by the Committee on Credentials that all operators and miners from the states of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania be given the rights and privileges of this convention, and that the names of delegates from other states be submitted to the convention without recommenda- tion. Interstate Joint Conference 665 It was moved by Mr. Traer, that the part of the report of the committee which gives the names of the operators and miners present from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Illi- nois be received and adopted, and that the persons named from these states be accepted as delegates to this convention. It was moved by Mr. Bogle, to amend the motion as fol- lows: That the delegates from other states as read be al- lowed the privileges of the floor of the convention without a vote in its deliberations or on the Scale Committee. After much discussion pro and con, the chairman called for a vote on the foregoing motion and amendment by states. The operators from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois voted in the affirmative and the miners from those four states in the negative. The chairman ruled that the decision rested with the chair, and declared the motion and amendment adopted, and that the delegates from the four states consti- tute the delegates or members of this convention. Mr. Ratchford desired to enter a protest on the part of the miners against the chairman’s decision. By the Chair : Gentlemen of the convention — I will state to you my reasons for the action I have taken : This convention was called by the four states named. In a convention, in which none of the other states that are asking to be represented in this floor were represented, this convention is the result. And if, as Mr. Ratchford has put it, these gentlemen have been invited to come here to this convention, they were not so in- vited by the convention of which this is a successor. REPORT OF committee ON RULES AND REGULATIONS. Your committee on rules and regulations recommend the following rules to govern the joint convention: First — That the convention meet daily at 9 a. m. and 2 p. m., and adjourn at 12 m. and 5 p. m. Second — Special meetings may be held or evening sessions, if so ordered. Third — That the min,ers’ representatives occupy the left side of the hall, and the operators the right, facing the stage. Fourth — That each state be allowed the same number of 666 United Mine Workers of America votes on the floor of the house — four votes in behalf of the operators, and four votes in behalf of the miners of each state. Fifth — That no vote be declared carried unless upon the affirmative vote of the miners and operators of each state. Sixth — That each state represented in the convention have four operators and four miners on the Scale Committee, to be appointed with the understanding that each state may have an alternate for each representative, who shall have all the privileges of the Scale Committee but shall have no vote ex- cept in the absence of his principal. Seventh — That sessions of the joint convention be open to the public, except when otherwise ordered. Order of Business. First — Report of Credential Committee. Second — Report of Rules and Regulations Committee. Third — Appointment of Scale Committee. Fourth — Report of Scale Committee. Fifth — Disposal of Report of Scale Committee. Sixth — Ad j ournment. The adoption of the foregoing report was moved by I\Ir. Robbins. It was moved by Mr. Traer that the report of the Rules and Regulations Committee, Rule 5, be amended by inserting and adding the following : Resolved, That upon all questions of mere procedure the ordinary rules of parliamentary procedure, as stated in any standard manual, shall be the rules of this convention; and that in no event shall the rule requiring unanimous vote on all main and principal questions be suspended. Mr. Mitchell — Mr. Chairman, I don’t think the convention ought to adopt or make a rule that they cannot repeal them- selves, and that would be about the position that we would be in were we to adopt a rule requiring a unanimous vote. That is taking the power away from themselves to repeal that rule. Mr. Garaghty, of Illinois — Mr. Chairman, no contract can be valid unless it is by mutual consent of all parties to it, and the right to insist upon there being no suspension of the rules is one of our safeguards. And Illinois is positively opposed to going into this convention without that understanding. Interstate Joint Conference 667 A yea and nay vote was taken on Mr. Traer’s motion, the operators from the four states voting affirmatively and the miners from these states negatively.' The chairman declared the motion adopted. A vote was then taken upon the question of approving and adopting the report of the Rules and Regulations Committee as amended. The operators of the four states voted in the affirmative, the miners voting in the negative, and the chair- man declared that the report as amended was approved and adopted by the meeting. Mr. Mitchell desired to record a protest against the rul- ing of the chair. SELECTION OF SCALE COMMITTEE. The representation on the Scale Committee as selected by the various states and reported to the meeting, was as fol- lows : Illinois — Operators : Principals — J. C. Simpson, R. Smith, J. H. Garaghty, A. L. Sweet; Alternates — Chas. E. Hull, F. S. Peabody, J. D. Crabb, H. N. Taylor. Miners : Principals — J. M. Hunter, Wm. Hefti, Jos. Manuel, Jas. Boston; Alter- nates — Samuel Pascoe, C. R. Scurrah, Edward Cahill, Wm. Doney. Indiarut — Operators: Principals — W. S. Bogle, J. K. Sei- fert, C. B. Niblock, Wm. Risher; Alternates — R. S. Tennant, A. M. Ogle, C. A. Eastman, J. S. Talley. Miners : Principals — W. D. Van Horn, T. I. Roberts, B. Navin, Phil. Roberts; Alter- nates — Jas. Cantwell, Sami. Boskill, T. E. Newcomb, E. Dixon. Ohio — Operators: Principals — J. B. Zerbe, H. L. Chap- man, N. 0. Gray, W. R. Woodford; Alternates — J. F. Pocock, Geo. H. Smith, M. Andrews, C. W. Troll. Miners: Principals — T. L. Lewis, W. H. Crawford, W. H. Haskins, J. J. Mossop ; Alternates — E. S. McCullough, D. H. Sullivan, M. Collins, G. Schackert. Pennsylvania — Operators — Principals — Francis L. Rob- bins, F. M. Osborne, John H. Jones, H. C. Bughman; Alter- nates — G. W. Schluederberg, J. C. Dysart, M. H. Taylor, D. B. Blackburn. Miners: Principals — P. Dolan, W. Warner, Ed. Soppit, Thos. Cavanaugh; Alternates — Jos. McGill, G. C. Eck- man, Henry Walker, Wm. Dodds. 668 United Mine Workers of America The operators of the convention expressed themselves as willing that Mr. Ratchford and the present national officers of the United Mine Workers of America, should attend the meetings of the Scale Committee. MORNING SESSION — THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 1899. REPORT OF SCALE COMMITTEE. Mr. T. L. Lewis reported that the Scale Committee had met and organized by electing W. S. Bogle, chairman and Robert J. Bailey and himself secretaries; that the proposi- tions had been submitted by both miners and operators, and without discussing the same the committee referred them to the convention. The proposed scales of both operators and miners were presented and discussed from January 19th to January 24th when the following scale report was read : REPORT OF JOINT SCALE COMMITTEE. First — Resolved, That the Chicago agreement be adopted as the agreement for the scale year beginning April 1, 1899, and ending March 31, 1900. (See Chicago scale prices for 1898.) Second — It is the understanding that the machine ques- tion of Illinois, outside of the basic point (the Danville dis- trict, where the present prices shall continue in force) shall be taken up by the Illinois State Convention for adjustment, by conciliation or arbitration; providing an agreement can not be arrived at in the Illinois State Convention the question at issue shall be referred to a board of arbitration of seven members, three to be selected by Illinois operators, and three by the United Mine Workers; the six so selected to appoint the seventh member. The question to be arbitrated being whether or not the various districts of Illinois are entitled to any reduction in the Springfield scale differentials, as against Danville, the bas- ing point ; and if so how much. It is understood and agreed that arbitration, if resorted to, shall be proceeded with at a date to be agreed upon at the Springfield convention. Interstate Joint Conference 669 Mr. Bogle moved the adoption of the foregoing report. The question of agreeing on the scale and conditions pre- sented by the committee was discussed at great length. Messrs. Doney, Lewis, President Mitdhell, ex-President Ratch- ford, Dolan, Penna, Robbins, McKay and Bogle participating, until at the night session action was taken as follows : NIGHT SESSION — TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 1899. The convention was called to order by the chairman, and proceeded to vote upon the adoption of the Scale Committee’s report. Mr. Niblock — Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of this Con- vention : The Indiana block-coal operators regret exceedingly the position they are now placed in, but information has been brought to our attention • today that an agreement has been made that notwithstanding certain districts shall sign the Chi- cago scale and Columbus scale they will be permitted to con- tinue to work at wages below the day-wage scale fixed by that arrangement; and, as this particular district comes in active competition with us, and are now working at a scale below that fixed in our district, we are compelled to respectfully withdraw from the convention. We cannot be a party to an agreement that provides for something that a secret agree- ment will nullify in any special district. The block operators, therefore, refuse to vote, and withdraw from the convention, in the face of this secret agreement. We do this because we do not care to stand as obstructionists before the convention and interfere with an adjustment in other districts. A motion that the block operators have the right to with- draw their vote was unanimously carried. Mr. Dolan (Upon the call for the Pennsylvania miners’ vote) — Mr. Chairman: The Pittsburg district miners vote “Yes,” with the understanding that where those operators are running this double system it shall cease at once; if not, it shall be annulled. The Chairman — The chair will decide that the vote does not depend on the present action of the operators. After the vote was taken, the chairman announced that the report of the Scale Committee is unanimously adopted. Mr. Lewis moved the appointment of a committee of two operators and two miners from each state, together with the 670 United Mine Workers of America officers of the Miners’ National Organization, to draw up and execute a contract and scale immediately after the adjourn- ment of the convention. This was unanimously adopted, and the following committee selected : Operators: Illinois — S. M. Dalzell, J. H. Garaghty; Indi- ana — J. S. Talley, W. S. Bogle; Ohio — J. B. Zerbe, N. 0. Gray; Pennsylvania — G. W. Schluederberg, C. L. Snowden. Miners: Illinois — J. H. Hunter, W. D. Ryan; Indiana (bituminous) — W. D. Van Horn, J. H. Kennedy; (Block) — B. Navin, P. D. Roberts; Ohio — T. L. Lewis, W. H. Haskins; Pennsylvania — P. Dolan, William Warner; and the national officers of the United Mine Workers of America. Upon motion offered by Mr. Dalzell, and adopted, Mr. C. L. Scroggs and Mr. W. C. Pearce were chosen secretaries of the above committee. The chairman announced that the committee would meet at the Monongahela House immediately after the adjournment of the convention. The thanks of the convention were extended to the pre- siding officer and the Secretaries, and a motion adopted with- out dissent, that the next Interstate Convention be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, beginning the fourth Tuesday in Jan- uary, 1900. Mr. Dalzell moved a vote of thanks to the members of the Scale Committee, on behalf of miners and operators alike, for the service they have rendered. This was adopted. Mr. Robbins moved that a committee of four operators (one from each state), and four miners (one from each state), be appointed to consider this question and report to the opera- tors and miners of the various states their decision; and if they favor such a joint board, how it should be formed, and let all states then take action on their report. This was adopted. Mr. Ratchford—lrv order to cover the situation, I will offer a substitute for the whole. I move you, sir, that it is the sense of the Chicago agreement that discrimination shall not be practiced in the loading or dumping of coal either bj^ the miners or by the operator. The Chwirrtian — All in favor of the motion will say aye as their names are called; this being a modification or interpre- Tenth Annual Convention, District 12 671 tation of the Chicago agreement, we will call for the ayes and nays. (Carried unanimously.) The Chairman — The miners and operators will please ap- point the members of this committee that has been named and hand the names to Mr. Pearce, the Secretary. The chair, by request of Mr. Pearce, asked that all dele- gates stand up and join in singing “America,” which was done, after which the motion to adjourn was voted upon and carried. W. C. Pearce, C. L. Scroggs, Secretaries. Alexander Dempster, Chairman. BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS, AGPvEEMENT. Made and entered into this 8th day of February, A. D. 1899, by and between the McLean County Coal Company, of Bloomington, Illinois, of the first part, and the United Mine Workers of America, of the second part, viz. : That it is hereby agreed and understood that the party of the first part agrees to adopt the agreement as made by the joint conven- tion of operators and miners at Pittsburg, Pa., January 24, 1899, said agreement to take effect from March 5, 1899, and continue in force to March 31, 1900. TENTH ANNUAL CONVENTION— DISTRICT 12. February 27, 1899. The tenth annual convention of the United Mine Workers of Illinois was called to order today by State President John M. Hunter, with Secretary W. D. Ryan in his official position. President Hunter introduced Mayor Wheeler, of Spring- field, who made the address of welcome. President Hunter responded, calling National President Mitchell to the chair. P. J. Keenan, chairman of the credential committee, stated that the committee would like further time until 1 :30 p. m. before making a report, which extension of time was granted. President Hunter then introduced James H. Bowman, President of the International Printing Pressmen of North America. He addressed the convention relating to the boy- cott now on the Chicago News and Record. 672 United Mine Workers of America Joseph Payne, President of the Box Makers and Sawyers, said he came here to thank the grandest and noblest labor organization in America today, for the aid it has given the box makers and sawyers, “for by your aid,” said he, “you have made it possible for us to compel three of the largest whole- sale houses in Chicago to use union-made boxes. I want to ask you to aid the pressmen of Chicago in their effort to better their conditions on the News and Record.” At this point a member of the National Organization of Hoisting Engineers, asked permission to present a package and message to State President Hunter from that organiza- tion, which proved to be a gavel. It was accompanied by the following resolution : The Hoisting Engineers, in convention, wish to present to John M. Hunter, of the United Mine Workers of America, a gavel, made from the cross plate of the gate that swung open at Virden to admit the scab miners. It is also from the piece which the ex-Chicago policeman caught hold of as he was falling, when he received the shot which carried him to his death. President Hunter made a fitting response, after which President Mitchell was introduced and spoke in part as fol- lows : The last time I was in your city it was under different conditions than those that prevail at the present time. In another brick building, over to my right, we had “scabs” who had been taken in charge by our brothers here, who had come to take the places of union men, and for which three union men gave up their lives to defend. They sacrificed their lives that you might better your condition. Many of you then, in the heat of the strife, thought you must have vengeance on the cause of your loss, but, under our advice and counsel, you refrained. But things have changed, and I am proud to be back among my Illinois brothers who have stood by me when I was being criminated and recriminated at Pittsburg until every charge had been refuted. Again, I say I am proud to come back to Illinois as your National President, all of which honor has been bestowed upon me by your steadfastness, knowing me as you had learned to know by association, when we were passing through the trying times of ’96 and ’97, when we were build- ing up the strongest state organization in the United States of America. Yet we have many conditions to meet. We have Tenth Annual Convention, District 12 673 not gat smooth sailing all along the line. Things at Valley ‘Creek and in Hocking Valley district are not yet settled. In the Indian Territory the operators combined to take every privilege possible away from our brothers, that should be ac- corded an American citizen. If, in those districts they should succeed in carrying out their plans of a reduction of 5 cents per ton, you must fall with them ; but, if all are as loyal as the Illinois men, there shall not be a pound of coal dug in those districts. Last Wednesday I met the operators in the Hocking Valley or Chapman district, and they refused to sign. They made the above proposition, and it was promptly rejected. We must now sustain these miners, if, in April, the operators do not sign, even if we have a strike in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Ken- tucky, Iowa and Illinois. The time may come when we will have to appeal to Illi- nois to assist in sustaining our brothers, and when we do, I assure you it will not be spent for brass bands. You have some grievances to settle, and by the Pittsburg agreement, you are bound to submit to it. The differential of 7 cents between pick and machine mining will, in all probabil- ity, have to be submitted to the arbitration committee, and I am not against it, for I believe that justice is on our side. In my travels over the various states I never have met men who love their organization as do the men of Illinois. You are the strongest state by many thousands, and are in a position to get what you want. As your National President I shall never allow the troubles that have passed in other states against me to make one iota of difference in my conduct, no matter how hard they may at- tempt to stigmatize my character. When I have finished my term of office I shall return to Illinois and take up my pick among you. I thank you one and all. Secretary Ryan spoke as follows : I am not going to take up your time. I will simply make a skeleton slatmill on my report. I am not going to throw any more bouquets at you. I think you have had enough. All I want to say is, we have gone along without any jar. We have had our fight and come out victorious and let us in the next year do as well. I want to say that I have been entrusted with the handling of a greater sum of money than any other man in the United States, in labor organizations, and with the smallest bond. I appreciate the confidence bestowed, and I trust you will find it has not been misplaced. This is only a partial report. This afternoon I want to give a detailed report. I thank you for the hearty co-operation you have given me the past year. 674 United Mine Workers of America Total receipts for 1898, $200,169.34; Disbursements — Re- lief, $132,620.49; Officers’ salaries and field work, $16,329.36. Total disbursements — $148,949.85; leaving a cash balance on hand of $51,219.49. This report was a genuine surprise to everyone, and the officers are receiving congratulations from the delegates and should receive congratulations from every miner in Illinois. The organization in Illinois which in the last two years has grown from the weakest to the strongest organization in any of the competitive states, now numbers about 30,000 miners. Two districts, Bloomington and Decatur, have been organized since the national convention. The chair appointed the following committees : Rules — Thomas Jeremiah, Jas. Hicks, F. McGurk. Resolutions — D. Higgins, W. Smith, Ed. Cahill, David Youths, J. Harrison. Auditing Committee — Wm. Hefti, J. Manuel, H. C. Bell. Grievance Committee — H. Schutter, Thomas Irvin, Thomas Gallagher, John Graham, J. Rourke. Committee on Constitution — J. Stanley, Joe Pope, Jas. Burns, E. Boycott, C. Hicks. The convention then adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. At the afternoon session the credential* committee reported 227 delegates entitled to seats, with a voting power of 269. The report was received and the committee continued. It was decided to take a recess, and that the delegates from the seven sub-districts in the state meet and elect three dele- gates each to act on the Scale Committee. On re-convening the following were elected to serre on this Scale Committee: First District — D. Williams, M. Welch, D. McDonald. Second — Charles Schwarting, Samuel Palmer, Gilbert Coch- ran. Third — Samuel Pascoe, J. L. Smith, S. J. Young. Fourth — William Johnson, Jos. Hart, Tim Downey. Fifth — D. Kline, Thomas Matteson, Ed. Cahill. Sixth — Wm. Hefti, Jos. Pope; Thomas Reynolds. Seventh — Wm. F. Morris, Thomas Laun- ders, David Jones. Tenth Annual Convention, District 12 675 State President Hunter reviewed the work of the past two years. He said : Brothers, it is needless for me to remind you of our troubles during the past two years. We have been dealing with economic questions and conditions. Today we are in our strength, and peace is with us. Tomorrow it may be all tur- moil and excitement, and blood may flow as it did at Virden; but we pray to God that such may never again occur in this glorious State of Illinois. I need not tell you that when your present officers took hold of your organization we had to sell the furniture to buy postage. The treasury was depleted, and we had to procure help from a Streator local and take your Secretary-Treasurer’s receipt for money in advance from this local to start business with. Note the difference today. By your generosity and able assistance we have gone through the greatest struggle ever known, and today you have received over $200,000 and spent nearly $150,000 and have a handsome balance in your treasury of over $50,000. The forenoon of the second day’s session was taken up in the discussion of the case of the Catlin local. AFTERNOON SESSION. Officers elected: John M. Hunter, President; Vice-Presi- dent, W. R. Russell; Secretary-Treasurer, W. D. Ryan. Next came the election of the executive board, and the fol- lowing delegates were elected : First District — W. E. Smith; Second, James Beattie; Third, Samuel Pascoe; Fourth, Eugene Zellers; Fifth, Ed. Cahill; Sixth, Thos. J. Reynolds; Seventh, Thos. Jeremiah. The convention then adjourned. THIRD day’s session. The morning session of the miners was consumed listening to the reports of President Thomas Williamson and Secretary Davis, of the Widows’ and Orphans’ Benefit Fund, which was created by the United Mine Workers of America after the killing of miners in the Virden riots. This Association has gone along the same line of progress the United Mine Workers of America has made in the past two years. It has taken care of the widows and orphans of the men who laid down their lives for the cause. 676 United Mine Workers of America Secretary-Treasurer Davis’ report shows that he has re- ceivied $17,523.94, and paid out $3,995.97, leaving a balance on hand of $12,527.97, and money is still coming in from many sources. The officers recommended to the convention that in place of building a monument of cold marble, they build homes and maintain the families. The convention then adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. The joint convention on reconvening at 1:30 in the after- noon called for reports of committees. The committee on rules failed to agree. Mr. Moorshead, for the operators, brought in the recommendation for a unit rule on all questions, while the miners brought in one asking for a majority vote to settle all questions. This the operators refused and fought. The miners then requested the operators to amend their report, so that by a two-thirds vote they could suspend the rules and vote by majority, when it was found that the majority were in favor of any question. The following resolution was offered : Whereas, There has been great difficulty in the collection of dues and assessments, for the benefit of the organization; therefore, be it Resolved, That whenever the United Mine Workers of America wish to have the same checked off through the com- pany office that the same must be complied with by the com- pany. Carried. House Bill, No. 15, entitled “An act to protect the lives and limbs of miners from the dangers resulting from incompe- tent miners working in the mines of the State, and to provide for the examination of persons seeking employment as miners in this State, and to prevent the employment of incompetent persons in coal mines, and providing penalties for a violation of the same,” was brought before the convention for consid- eration by Hon. John R. Greene, a miner, and Hon. William Mooney, the organization’s attorney, who has been working faithfully for the laws pertaining to labor. The bill contained Tenth Annual Convention, District 12 677 this clause: “That a miner’s term of competency shall be five years,” This, both the gentlemen thought, was too great a length of time, and they desired that an expression of the convention be given before sending the bill to the Senate, and advised that it be amended to two years. It was moved to have the bill amended from five years to two years, and that miners who have served sufficient time,, be granted service certificates. Carried, National President Mitchell moved that Brother Mooney draft an amendment to the bill, so as to admit of apprentice- ship. Carried. The convention then adjourned. FOURTH DAY — MORNING SESSION. The joint conference of miners and operators was called to order, and National President Mitchell, of the Miners’ Union, at once made a motion that the report of the miners’ scale committee be read to the convention, which was adopted. Several changes were made. First District, the price asked for is: Streator, Clark City and associated mines, 51 cents; third vein, including 24-inch brushing, 67 cents; Wil- mington and associated mines, including Bloomington, 72 cents; Bloomington, thick vein, 67 cents — an advance of 4 cents over the old scale. At Pontiac, thick vein, an increase of 8 cents, this to include third vein conditions. Pontiac top vein was placed at 55 cents. In the Third District, Lincoln, the price asked for is 45 7-10 cents. It was 42^ cents. In the Fourth District the prices remain the same, except at Mouiqua, where room or pillar work was raised from 421/2 cents to 45 7-10 cents, and at Decatur, where there was no price last year, on account of the matter being referred to the State officers. This year the miners ask 55 cents. In the Sixth District, at Salem and Kimundy, 48 cents is asked. This is a raise of 7 cents over the old scale. In the Eighth District, Fulton and Peoria counties, thin vein, with third vein conditions, a raise of 4 cents is asked, making the price 67 cents. In the thick vein, 49 cents. This 678 United Mine Workers of America is also a raise of 4 cents. In Mercer county, Gilchrist and Wanlock, which was 50 cents, is now 55 cents. These prices are all based on pick mining prices per ton of 2,000 pounds, run of mine coal, and same conditions as in the contract of January 27, 1898. At Spring Hill, Streator, the price was fixed at 57 cents for room and pillar work; brushing, 6-foot entries, $1 and 14-foot entries, 75 cents per yard at this mine. The day scale has but few changes. Blacksmiths were re- duced from $2.50 to $2.25 per day. Tracklayers were raised from $2.15 to $2.25; bottom cagers from $2 to $2.25; timber- men from $2.15 to $2.25. These prices are all based on eight hours’ work per day. The following resolutions were presented: Resolved, That the miners of the State of Illinois are to be paid every two weeks, allowing one week in hand. That the price for turning branch in third vein and asso- ciated mines of Northern Illinois be $5, and the company to put in cage and do the brushing. That the charge for blacksmithing throughout the entire State of Illinois should be % cent per ton, except in case of long wall mines, when the price for blacksmithing shall be 5 cents per pay or 10 cents per month, all machine mines to be exempt. That the price of powder be $1.50 per keg where it is bought at the mine. But any miner shall enjoy the State law and buy his powder where he pleases. That based upon the present cost the maximum price of miners’ oil throughout the State of Illinois shall be 45 cents per gallon, and that oil sold at that price shall stand the test as provided by law, and that the men shall have the privilege to buy where they please. That prices for opening rooms in third vein and associated mines be $1 per yard, face measurement. That the hour for beginning work in the morning be left for local settlement. The above scale is based on an eight- hour day. Whereas, It is an evident fact that the machine miners outside of the basing point (namely Danville), enjoy a better privilege in the way of a larger per cent of a high grade coal as against the pick mining in said parts or districts, we, the miners, ask in the spirit of justice to the pick miners that the present differential now existing in the different districts, be reduced. Tenth Annual Convention, District 12 679 At the conclusion of the reading of the Miners’ scale, Operator George W. Traer arose and stated that the Operators’ scale was not in detail, but that it proposed the re-enactment of the prices and conditions contained in the Springfield agree- ment of 1898, as being supplemental to and part of the Chi- cago agreement, which was enacted at the Pittsburg confer- ence, except that the machine mining throughout the State be placed on the same mathematical ratio as to pick mining in the respective districts — as machine to pick mining in the Danville field — and except that shearing machines should be placed on the same basis agreed at the Danville meeting, held in that city in April, 1898. National President Mitchell then proposed that the joint committee go into session and discuss the scale. President Hunter arose and read the following resolution: Whereas, It has come to the knowledge of this convention that Messrs. Hilbert, Gilman and Underwood, identified with the mining interests, were unjustly convicted of the crime of manslaughter, at the October term of the Circuit Court of Vermillion county, and sentenced to the Chester penitentiary for the term of one year ; Resolved, That, in the judgment of this convention, the indictments in the said trial, connected the said parties to the crimes for which they were convicted; therefore we respect- fully petition his excellency, John R. Tanner, to aid the cause by issuing an order for their immediate pardon. The resolution was adopted amid cheers from both sides of the hall. Several of the operators stated that they had re- ceived assurances that it would be granted. The joint conference then adjourned, and the scale com- mittee went into session. The operators at once moved the ratification of the Chicago agreement, but it failed to pass when put to a vote. President Mitchell moved that the scale be taken up by districts and voted on. He closed by asking that the mining price in the First District be raised from 47 cents to 51 cents per ton, but no vote was received from the operators and the motion was lost. After arguments pro and con the convention adjourned. 680 United Mine Workers of America The miners’ convention convened at 1:30, and Secretary Ryan made the following summary : . At the following named places strikes were won : Auburn, Desoto, Chatham, Centralia, Coulterville, Girard, Greenridge, Kewanee, Milewood, Niantic, Oakwood, Roseborough, Percy, Petersburg, Pleasant Plains, Sparta, Sandoval, Sorento, Vir- den, Odin, Farmington. Strikes, were lost at Auburn, Carterville and Ledford. Compromised : Taylorville, Dumfermline, Tamaroa. Yet on strike: Carterville (shaft burned down), Hills- boro, Dubois, Pana. Scabs are working in Litchfield and union men working elsewhere. Arbitrated : Mt. Vernon. At Worden, no relief and men working elsewhere. Summary — Strikes lost, three; still on strike, seven, with ten mines in them ; strikes that were settled without receiving relief and settled satisfactorily, Belleville local union 99; Ed- wardsville, Minonk, Winona and Witt. There have been sev- eral other places where we have had trouble but they were settled after a short period of idleness. There have been strikes in forty mines of such duration that relief had to be sent. At present relief is being sent to the miners of ten mines, making an expenditure for relief amounting to $3,780 per week. The miners of Toluca, having been pushing the coal from rooms to the switch the past year, which is in violation of the constitution, it was moved the state officers take the matter up at once and bring them to a speedy complance with the law. Carried. The convention then adjourned. FIFTH DAY — MORNING SESSION. Convention called to order, with Vice-President Russell in the chair. The resolutions committee reported a resolution against the forking of coal. Also one providing that miners leasing mines pay such dues and assessments as the organization calls for. Carried. There being five delegates to be elected to the State Federa- tion of Labor, it was moved that the convention proceed to elect said delegates, and the convention adjourned. Tenth Annual Convention, District 12 681 AFTERNOON SESSION. At the afternoon session the following delegates to the State Federation of Labor were elected: Wm. Hefti, R. H. Kelly, W. T. Morris, James Boston, Ed. Cahill. Alternates — D. McDonald, Wm. Topham, H. Cartwright, Wm. Monahan, J. Taylor. The constitutional committee adopted a resolution that the uniform initiation fee, to prevail throughout the State for all miners at present employed in the mines, and not in the organ- ization, be $5.00; for all men entering any mine for the first time to work, $20.00; for boys (other than miners’ sons), en- tering the mines, between the ages of 14 and 17 years, $2.50 ; all other miners’ sons, at the age of 14 years, to enter said mines free of charge. The other change was the increase of the Secretary-Treas- urer’s bond. This was raised from $1,000 to $10,000. He is to make a quarterly report and the same shall be published in the United Mine Workers’ Journal. ■ The convention adjourned to meet at 7 :30 p. m. EVENING SESSION. The evening session of the miners was called to order by President Hunter. Jos. Pope, miner, secretary of the joint scale committee, stated that the committee had failed to reach an agreement. He said that after every effort, the members had concluded to lay the matter before the convention for ad- vice. They had carried the matter to such a point that Oper- ator Taylor introduced the following resolution : Resolved, That it is the sense of this meeting that, inas- much as the settlement at Pittsburg fixed the mining rules in the competitive states, east of Illinois, on the same basis that they have operated under during the past year, that the same conditions prevail in Illinois, both as regards mining prices and conditions, and that the only question which properly comes before the convention is with regard to the adjustment of differentials for machine mining, provided for in the Pitts- burg agreement, and in case this can not be settled at this convention that a board of arbitration be appointed by this convention. The vote of the operators was divided — 4 ayes and 4 nays. 682 United Mine Workers of America The chair declared it carried, Chairman Traer, operator, mak- ing the deciding vote. Convention then adjourned. SIXTH DAY’S SESSION. Meeting called to order by President Hunter. The constitution committee reported an amendment to the constitution providing for the election of officers by popular vote, which was carried after a heated discussion. The grievance committee offered the following resolution: Whereas, There are several places in the State where the miners are compelled to fill up breaks or suffer for the want of air at the working place ; therefore be it Resolved, That this system be abolished at once. This was concurred in. P. H. Straghen, W. T. Morris and J. Pope were elected auditors, and Wm. McGahey, Duncan McDonald and P. J. Keenan were elected alternates. The convention then adjourned until Tuesday morning, when the joint conference will convene. SEVENTH day’s SESSION. Joint conference met and adjourned until tomorrow morn- ing. The miners met as usual. State President John Hunter presiding. Reports from the various committees were read to the convention, mainly to remedy evils that exist in the differ- ent districts. The constitutional committee reported an amend- ment to the constitution to the effect that any member of the United Mine Workers who leaves the mine to pursue another vocation for a livelihood, must pay all dues and assessments that are levied upon him to retain his good standing in that organization. This was adopted by the delegates. The convention then adjourned until Wednesday morning. The eighth day’s sessions were taken up in discussing the scale as presented by the operators, and resulted in no definite conclusions being reached. At the ninth day’s session (Friday, March 10) the scale was agreed to and the convention adjourned sine die. Iowa Joint Agreement, 1899 683 DISTRICT 13, IOWA— CENTERVILLE JOINT AGREEMENT. , March 9, 1899. This agreement, made and entered into this 9th day of March, 1899, at Centerville, Iowa, by and between the United Mine Workers of America, in convention assembled, party of the first part, and the undersigned coal operators of the low- coal district known as Sub-district No. 1 of District No. 13 of the United Mine Workers of America, party of the second party, Witnesseth, That the annual price for pick mining shall be 85 cents per ton of 2,000 pounds screened coal over the screens now in use from March 1, 1899, to February 28, 1900, and that hand-picked coal be considered under this agreement as screened coal. 2. That the pay be semi-monthly. 3. That the long-wall machine question be submitted for arbitration to a judge of the Second Judicial District of the State of Iowa, who shall render a decision not later than April 1, 1899, said decision to be binding on all parties and is hereby made a part of this agreement. 4. That the miner keep and be responsible for his road- way, measuring twenty feet outward from the face of the coal, and also in the long-wall work to keep his wall in good order for the agreed distance. Corner-cutting in long-wall work to be 50 cents per yard, the miner to deliver his coal at his own switch. 5. Eight hours shall constitute a day’s work. The United Mine Workers of America: By John F. Ream, President Dist. No. 13. John P. Reese, Vice-President. Operators : Big Jo Coal Co., by W. Harkes, Genl. Supt. Columbia Coal Co., by W. E. Baker, Pres. Walnut Creek Coal Co., D. C. Bradley. Mystic Fuel Co., James A. Seddon. Gust Pearson Co., by Emil Johnson. Lodwick Bros. Co., by David Lodwick. Orr Bros., by Alexander Orr. Acken Co., by W. Porter. Crescent Coal Co., by Daniel Clark. Peacock Coal Co., by R. F. Lawton. Brazil Coal Co., by B. F. Silknitter. White-Breast Fuel Co., by J. Holland. Happy Coau Co., by C. Erickson. Seymour Coal Co., by George Elmore. F. H. JucKET, per B. C. Busby. 684 United Mine Workers of America Peerless Coal Co., T. E. Lee, Pres. Lone Star Coal Co., by J. Seddon. Mystic Coal Co., J. L. Helm. I. & M. Coal Mining Co., by A. B. Dudley. Darby Block Co., by George Guild. Scandinavian Co., by Claus Johnson. Phoenix Coal Co., by Joseph Turner. Centerville Block Coal Co., W. W. Oliver. Numa Coal Co., by A. G. Widmer. Anchor Coal Co., by J. Wilson. JOINT AGREEMENT— DISTRICT 12. Springfield, Illinois, March 10, 1899. We, your joint scale committee, appointed by the miners’ and operators’ convention, in Springfield, Illinois, beg leave to offer the following report : First: That we hereby ratify the Pittsburg agreement, carrying with it the Columbus and Springfield agreement as modified, with the understanding that the mines are to remain at work for the scale year ending March 31, 1900. Second: That the Board of Arbitration, as provided for in the Pittsburg agreement, namely, three (3) miners and three (3) operators, the six (6) to select a seventh (7th), shall be appointed by this convention to arbitrate the machine differential in the State of Illinois. The question to be arbi- trated being whether or not the various districts of Illinois are entitled to any reduction in the Springfield scale differ- entials as against Danville, the basing point; and, if so, how much. Third: That where, in any district, discrepancies exist between the various mines of that district in narrow and de- ficient work, and it is desired by the miners or operators of that district to adjust uniformly the prices for narrow and deficient work in that district, it shall be the duty of said op- erators and miners to appoint a joint committee for that pur- pose; and when so adjusted it shall remain in force until the end of the scale year. Fourth: That there shall be appointed a committee of operators and miners, representing the various contract dis- tricts, whose duty it shall be to investigate the conditions in each and every mine and district in this State and report to a joint convention of miners and operators, to be called prior to January 1 next, the data gathered by such committee to be used in formulating a scale for the various districts of Illinois, and that it is the sense of this convention that the miners and operators after arriving at a local scale for Illinois be prepared District 12 Joint Agreement, 1899 685 to stand for the same terms and conditions in all of the four (4) competitive states. It shall be the duty of this committee to demonstrate by all practical means the relative conditions existing throughout the entire State of Illinois, as against the competitive states. Fifth : That we, as operators, will recognize the pit com- mittee and will agree to check off all dues and assessments from all miners and mine laborers, when desired: and the United Mine Workers agree to protect operators where such checking is done. Sixth: It is understood and agreed that the arbitration above mentioned does not apply to shearing, or air, or electric drilling machines; but this does not prevent, by separate board of arbitration, the adjustment of a rate for shearing machines in the event of the miners and operators in the local districts not agreeing. Seventh: That the operators and the representatives of the outside labor meet in each scale or contract district prior to April 1, 1899, for the purpose of formulating a uniform price for outside labor, and where it is mutually agreed upon that the representatives of the United Mine Workers assist in making that scale. Eighth: It is also agreed that where day men wish to change to room work there shall be no unjust discrimination against them; and that no miner shall be unreasonably com- pelled to leave his room and do company work. Ninth: That where coal is shot off solid by the use of electric or air drills, the price paid for such work shall be 38 cents per ton, based on 40 cents per ton hand mining. The miner to furnish all supplies, the operator to furnish and keep drill or drills in repair. Illinois Coal Operators’ Association, S. H. Dalzell, President. C. L. ScROGGS, Secretary. United Mine Workers of Illinois, J. M. Hunter, President. W. D. Ryan, Secretary. Operators’ Committee, H. N. Taylor. Chas. E. Hull. Miners’ Committee, Edward Cahill. Wm. Hefti. Joseph Pope, Secretary. United Mine Workers of America, John Mitchell, National President. CHAPTER XXXI. PROCEEDINGS, DISTRICT No. 19. March 11, 1899. Second annual convention of District No. 19, United Mine Workers of America, called to order by Vice-President S. F. Broughton, March 11, 1899, in the absence of President J. M. Lewis. The convention adjourned. EVENING SESSION. Convention called to order by President J. M. Lewis. Appointment of committees : — Credentials — J. S. Bell, Ed, Captal, R. F. Peters; Constitution — J. S. Cosin, Joe Vasey, T. J. Smith; Resolutions — E. W, Johnson, P. Jerne, W. H. Foster; Scale — John Hickman, H. C. Snoderly, W. L. Glancy; Order of Business — P. Costello, J. W. Howe, W. V. Balloue. The credential committee being ready, they reported as follows : We, your committee on credentials, beg leave to submit the following report of delegates entitled to a seat and vote in this convention: — Ed. Captal, John Jasper, R. F. Peters, J. S. Bell, John Hickman, E, W. Johnson, J. Costello, Frank Martin, W. V. Balloue, P. Jerne, G. W. Beam, T. B. Haynes, Joe Vasey, J. S. Cosin, T. J. Smith, H. C. Snoderly, J. W. Howe, W. H. Foster, John C. Grice, Andrew Cooley, M. J. Cullon, W. L. Glancy. Moved that the report of the committee on credentials be accepted and they be discharged. Motion carried. W. R. Fairley being presented to the convention, W. H. Foster introduced a motion to give Brother W. R. Fairley a seat and voice in the convention. Carried. The same courtesy was extended to ex-President H. A. Bradley of Strunks, Kentucky. Moved that the convention go into executive session. Carried. The committees not being ready to report, the convention took a thirty-minute recess. ( 686 ) District 19 Convention, 1899 687 Committee on order of business being ready to report, the convention came to order. We, the committee on order of business, beg leave to pre- sent the following report : 1. Report of committee on credentials. 2. On resolutions. 3. On auditors. 4. Report of scale 'committee. 5. District constitution and by-laws. 6. Election of officers. P. Costello, J. W. Howe, W. V. Balloue, Committee. Moved that the report of the committee on order of busi- ness be adopted. Carried. Auditing committee’s report was read by Chairman Yates. Moved that the report of the auditing committee be re- ceived. Carried. The committee on constitution was called for. The com- mittee being ready read their report. Moved that we receive the report. Carried. The constitution was read and adopted seriatim. Moved that we adjourn. Carried. MONDAY, MARCH 13, 1899. Convention called to order by President J. M, Lewis. There was quite a debate on the Secretary-Treasurer’s report, and it resulted in a motion to amend thq by-laws so as to read that all officers render itemized accounts every month. Election of Officers : Brother W. R. Fairley was called to the chair. For president, T. J. Smith; vice-president, J. M. Lewis; secretary-treasurer, J. S. McCracken; executive board, W. H. Foster, J. S. Bell, Joe Vasey, P. Jerne, John Howe, J. B. Brace; auditing committee, H. C. Yates, Robert Brown, J. S. Cosin. Moved that the election of the board and auditing commit- tee be made unanimous. Carried. Moved that the president appoint legislative committee. 688 United Mine Workers of America Committee: H. A. Bradley, Joe Vasey, Dock Kaine. Motions adopted : That the by-laws be put in print ; That the next place of convention be at Harriman, Tennessee ; That the time for holding the next convention be the last Wednes- day in March, 1900. Chair declared the convention stands adjourned. J. M. Lewis, President. G. W. Stephens, Secretary. PROCEEDINGS OF SUB-DISTRICT No. 2 OF DISTRICT 6. Glen Roy, Ohio, March 14, 1899. Convention called to order at 9 :30 by President McLean, and the following committees were appointed. On Credentials — David Lytle, John Stevens, Samuel Shumate; Rules and Order of Business — J. L. Nunley, Eugene Taiclet, Andrew T. Pool; Auditing — John Wall, William Meadows, Pat O’Donnell; Resolutions — Frank Conrad, Charles Wade, A. V. Ireland; Grievance — John Farley, William Phelps, Bishop Smith. Committee on credentials reported the following delegates entitled to seats in the convention: — John W. Farris, Alonzo Stiffler, Wm. Phelps, Eugene Taiclet, John Harmon, J. L. Nunley, T. C. Snyder, Wm. Meadows, Bishop Smith, Oliver Channell, Chas. McMillen, Joseph Bartels, A. Chatfield, Jacob Collins, A. V. Ireland, Pat O’Donnell, A. T. Pool, John Farley, John Stevens, John Wall, David Lytle. David Lytle, John Stevens, Samuel Shumate, Committee. - It was moved that the report of credential committee be adopted and delegates seated. Motion carried. After report of credential committee. President McLean made his report for quarter, which was accepted by unani- mous vote. AUDITING COMMITTEE’S REPORT : Glen Roy, Ohio, March 14, 1899. We, your auditing committee, beg leave to make the follow- ing report, which we have found to be correct and books in excellent condition: Convention Sub-District 2, District 6 689 Money on beginning of quarter, $19.45; receipts from per capita, $171.13 ; total, $190.58. Expenses — Indebtedness beginning of quarter, $9.80; ex- pense incurred during quarter, $98.62 ; total, $108.42. Recapitulation — Receipts, $190.58; expense, $108.42; bal- ance in treasury March 14, 1899, $82.16. John Wall, Pat O’Donnell, Wm. Meadows, Committee. The hour of noon having arrived, a motion prevailed that we adjourn. AFTERNOON SESSION. Meeting called to order at 1 o’clock. The first order of business was report of resolution committee. The following resolutions were adopted: 1. Be it Resolved, by this convention. That the provisions of our constitution be complied with by all secretaries check- ing the $5 initiation fee, and if the company refuse to allow it to be collected by check-off, and the miner refuses to pay the same, the miners to refuse to work until this rule be complied with, or the man leaves mine ; and any mine failing to comply with the above shall be considered unloyal, and shall not be entitled to be represented in any convention. 2. Be it resolved. That the miners of Sub-district No. 2, of District No. 6, strictly enforce the eight-hour law; the time of entering the mine and leaving the same to be regulated by each mine by the time required to get to and from their work- ing places. 3. Resolved, That this convention re-indorse the blue label of the Tobacco Workers’ Union, and call upon all miners and all who sympathize with union labor to use nothing but blue label tobacco. Moved, that April 1st be declared a holiday. Moved that we celebrate April 1st by holding a mass meet- ing in the opera house, Wellston, Ohio, and that we secure speakers for the occasion. Moved, that our sub-district officers act as a committee to arrange for celebrating April 1st. Moved that our next convention he held in Jackson, Ohio. There being no further business to come before the meet- 690 United Mine Workers of America ing, it was moved that the convention adjourn to meet in Jackson the second Tuesday in June. Carried. Adam McLean, President. Wm. Fennell, Jr., Secretary. OHIO OPERATORS SIGN. Columbus, Ohio, March 16, 1899. The Ohio operators sign the Pittsburg agreement. An all-day conference was held, at which the miners were repre- sented by National President Mitchell, National Secretary Pearce and State President Haskins. The operators were represented by J. S. Morton, Thomas Johnson, C. L. Poston, S. A. McManigal, T. W. Guthrie and F. S. Brooks. The miners held out firmly for the Pittsburg agreement, and the opera- tors were unable to gain the slightest concession. The opera- tors contended that under the terms of the Chicago agreement, which was renewed by the Pittsburg conference, the prices in the Pittsburg district were to be the same as those in the Hocking Valley. This part of the agreement had not been fulfilled, they urged, since the price for run of mine in the Pittsburg district was 5 cents below the price fixed for the Hocking Valley. It was upon this point that the operators based a protest in signing the scale, claiming that it was an injustice to them. The prices fixed for the next year in Ohio are 66 cents per ton for screened coal and 47 1-7 cents for run of mine. The agreement dates from April 1st. CAMBRIDGE JOINT AGREEMENT. Cambridge, Ohio, March 17, 1899. Joint meeting of operators and miners held in this city in Trades Assembly Hall, called to order by Sub-district Presi- dent James M. Stewart. Motion made and carried that James M. Stewart act as Chairman and C. C. Henderson as Secretary. The joint committee of five operators and five miners con- curred in the following resolutions, which were adopted as read: District 11, Tenth Annual Convention 691 Resolved, That on and after April 1, 1899, eight hours shall constitute a day’s work, and all mines may operate six days per week. Resolved, That on and after April 1, 1899, the mines of this district shall begin work at 6 :30 a. m., work until 10 :30 a. m., taking one hour for noon, and beginning at 11 :30 a. m., continue until 3 :30 p. m. until April 1, 1900. Resolved, That on and after April 1, 1899, all machines shall be fitted with front shoe not to exceed 21/^ inches in thickness, and machine men be required to cut coal level, and close to bottom as possible; and in no case shall thickness of bottom exceed 4 inches, except in case of “pots” or other ex- treme variations, and all machine men leaving more bottom than above must lift same, or it shall be lifted at his expense ; and in case of sprags being left by a machine man that he be notified by loader, and if he refuse to remove the same, that the loader remove the sprag and be allowed 50 cents each for so doing. Said 50 cents to be deducted from machine runner, and where any machine man leaves six or more sprags in any one pay he shall be removed from machine, and his service disposed of as deemed best by general superintendent. Resolved, That no miner be permitted to load double turn or free turn under any circumstances. Resolved, That so far as possible all machine loaders be accorded two rooms for each two men, and the operators pledge themselves to provide two rooms for two men at the earliest possible moment. Resolved, That we pay II/2 cents per $1.00 for smithing in pick work and nothing for machine loading. Accepted and signed on behalf of operators : The Wells Creek Coal Company, N. 0. Gray. Jas. W. Elsworth Coal Company, W. H. Davis, Genl. Supt. The Opperman Coal Company, By J. Opperman. Pioneer Coal Company, W. H. Davis. The Loomis-Moss Coal Company. For the miners : James M. Stewart, President. C. C. Henderson, Secretary-Treasurer. 692 United Mine Workers of America TENTH ANNUAL CONVENTION— DISTRICT No. 11. Terre Haute, Indiana, March 21-30, 1899. Pursuant to call, the Tenth Annual Convention was called to order at 10 o’clock a. m. Tuesday, March 21, 1899, by Presi- dent W. D. VanHorn, Secretary J. H. Kennedy at the desk. President VanHorn appointed the followng committees: On Credentials — Joseph Edwards, Theodore Himburg, J. M. Bradley, Mark Roberts; On Rules and Order of Business — William Blakely, W. B. Henderson and Robert Knox. Mr. Evinger, President of the Central Labor Union, wel- comed the delegates to the city, and spoke briefly on the bene- fits of organization. Mr. Reinbold also spoke briefly, urging a closer affiliation of all organized bodies of workingmen, and recommending the affiliation of District 11 with the State Federation of Labor. The Committee on Order of Business reported the hours of meeting to be from 8 :30 a. m. to 12 m. and from 1 :30 until 4 p. m., and the various committees to report in regular order, Cushing’s Manual to govern all parliamentary proceedings. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President VanHorn. The Committee on Credentials then submitted its report as follows: James Simons, J. M. Bradley, Joseph Edwards, Mark Roberts, Thomas Moss, J. F. Houser, Charles Green, L. M. Geissir, James Dillon, M. F. Collins, John Taylor, Lee Lambert, J. M. James, James Nolan, J. Lewis, William Cox, J. H. Kennedy, George Lowe, Arthur McCool, W. B. Hender- son, T. J. Loudermilk, Theodore Himburg, Murray Bledsoe, A. J. Hedges, Roy Hudson, Frank Jennings, Alex. Waugh, William Green, Frank Van Orsdale, Emanuel Dixon, William Blakely, T. J. Lee, J. C. Smith, Ed G. Lewis, William Tipton, J. H. Kennedy, C. C. Craig, S. J. Caruthers, H. H. Love, J. H. McKenna, George Hargroves, George Murphy, James Hooper, G. W. Lackey, William Taylor, A. R. Maddox, James Hutchin- son, William Watson; Without credentials — H. Turner, Thos. Faulds, J. M. Wheeler, William Phipps. District 11, Tenth Annual Convention 693 Committee on Credentials recommended that the delegates with credentials be seated, and also delegates without creden- tials who belong to locals in good standing. The report of committee was adopted: President VanHorn then appointed the following commit- tees : Committee on Scale — Thomas Moss, G. W. Lackey, T. J. Loudermilk, Ed. G. Lewis and Joseph Edwards; W. D. Van- Horn, J. H. Kennedy and G. W. Purcell were added to the committee. Committee on Resolutions — Thomas Faulds, J. H. McKenna, S. J. Caruthers, E. Dixon and J. C. Smith. Audit- ing Committee — James Nolan, Frank Vanosdal and Frank Jennings. Committee on Grievances — Robert Knox, James Dillon and William Tipton. Committee on Constitution — William Blakely, M. F. Collins, John M. James. President VanHorn then read his report to the convention, recommending such changes as he thought might best serve the interests of the miners of Indiana. Secretary Kennedy followed with his annual report and also his financial report, showing the District in better condi- tion numerically and financially than ever before in its history. The reports were referred to the proper committees. Moved and seconded that our visiting national officers be allowed a seat and voice in the convention. Carried. Convention adjourned. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22, 1899. Convention called to order by President VanHorn. The Committee on Resolutions reported several resolutions which were referred and tabled. At this time National President Mitchell was called upon and spoke at some length on the existing agreement, and among other things he said that in Clause 4 of the Chicago agreement, where it says run-of-mine coal may be mined and paid for on the above basis at the option of the operators ac- cording to market requirements, he interprets to mean when the coal is mined, weighed and marketed run-of-mine then it shall he paid for run-of-mine. Moved and seconded we accept this interpretation and demand immediate relief. Carried. 694 United Mine Workers of America Resolved, That we are in favor of trying to recover the Saturday half holiday. The committee recommends that the convention instruct the Scale Committee to try to secure the half holiday on Saturday. Agreed to. Whereas, there is a State mining law in the State of Ind- iana, Resolved, that we, the miners, insist that all locals keep a copy in the hall for reference and the good of the organiza- tion. Committee reported favorably. Agreed to. Adjourned until 1:30 p. m. AFTERNOON SESSION. The following resolutions were agreed to : Resolved, That we do not waive our rights to the weekly pay law passed by the late legislature. That District 11 attach itself to the State Federation of Labor and that at each annual convention five delegates be elected to attend all conventions of the Indiana Federation; and be it further Resolved, That the District Secretary be instructed to for- ward initiation fee and per capita tax as required by the con- stitution of the Indiana Federation of Labor. Whereas, the Federal Labor Union and the Laborer’s Pro- tective Union of Terre Haute have, with the endorsement of the Central Labor Union, placed the product of the Terre Haute Artificial Ice Company on the unfair list. Resolved, That we authorize our Secretary to notify the United Mine Workers Journal of said action; and be it further Resolved, That each delegate on returning home report said action to his local. Whereas, the Teamsters of West Terre Haute ask the privilege of uniting with the local union of Sugar Creek for the purpose of making a contract with the operators for their mutual protection, therefore be it Resolved, That this convention authorize and permit said local union to make a contract with the operators and Teams- ters Union, provided that said contract does not conflict with existing agreement and is concurred in by our district officers. Whereas, the Princeton local has, on their own accord, put organizers in the held, be it Resolved, That our officers be empowered to repay them the sum of one hundred (100) dollars, .and that hereafter no one person or local be repaid such money unless the officers District 11, Tenth Annual Convention 695 of the district concur in the sending out of such men as organ- izers. That the contract system at mines be abolished entirely. Convention adjourned. « THURSDAY MORNING, MARCH 23. Convention called to order by President VanHorn. Report of Committee on Officers’ Reports: We, your Committee on Officers’ Reports, beg leave to sub- mit the following : We concur in the report of our officers in regard to locals paying on less than their membership calls for, and recom- mend that this convention take action on the question. We also tender a vote of thanks to the miners of District 11, and national officers for the financial aid rendered their fellow- craftsmen during the Washington strike, and we tender a vote of congratulation to the miners of Washington in said strike. We concur in our officers’ recommendation that when trou- ble occurs between employer and employe that conditions re- main the same until the case has been submitted to the Board of Arbitration and they have rendered their decision. We also recommend that if our Arbitration Board exists during the ensuing year that the fifth member be elected to act in case of a disagreement of said board. We recommend that a vote of thanks be given our District Officers and Executive Board members for the able manner in which they have conducted the affairs of the organization, both in gains in membership and economy in the financial affairs of the organization in the past year. George Hargroves, George Lowe, T. J. Lee, Committee. The report was adopted and turned over to the Scale Com- mittee with instructions to have as much of it covered in our next year’s contract as possible, and an effort made to have an increase for turning rooms in pick mines. The question of the conditions in the southern part of the state was then discussed. It was decided to try to procure the Indiana scale of prices for those people, but thought wise to leave the time and plans to the incoming officers. The question was then submitted to a special committee composed of Brothers Wm. Blakely, Hutchinson and Caruthers, after 696 United Mine Workers of America which Brother McKenna stated the conditions at Washington. Brother J. M. Bradley then made some remarks. REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE. We, your Committee on Auditing, beg leave to submit the following : We have carefully examined the books and documents of the Secretary-Treasurer and find them absolutely correct and in accordance with his financial statement as submitted to the convention, which follows: Recapitulation: Total Receipts, $4,066.42; Total Expendi- tures, $2,346.07 ; Balance in Treasury, $1,720.35. James Nolan, Frank Jennings, Frank Van Orsdale, Committee. The report was accepted and the convention adjourned to allow the Scale Committee to hold a session. AFTERNOON SESSION. Called to order by President VanHorn. The Chairman of the Scale Committee asked for one hour’s more time. Moved and seconded it be granted and that the convention proceed with the regular order of business. Carried. Election of officers: President, W. D. VanHorn; Vice- President, T. I. Roberts ; Secretary-Treasurer, J. H. Kennedy ; Executive Board, G. W. Lackey, George Hargroves, Lee Lam- bert, Ed. G. Lewis. FRIDAY MORNING, MARCH 24. Friday morning’s convention was called to order by Presi- dent VanHorn at 8 :30 a. m. Ed. G. Lewis, secretary of the Scale Committee, made a report of the work of said commit- tee. The report was received and acted on seriatim with the following result : That all machine work be by the ton. That for chain machine the price for cutting, 6 cents per ton, to be equally divided between the runner and the helper. District 11, Tenth Annual Convention 697 and that the loader and shooter get the other 24 cents per ton, gross weight. That the price for all machine, narrow work be three- fourths the price of pick work. That all rooms turned by machines shall be paid three- fourths the price of rooms turned ’with pick, except bottle- neck rooms, which will be $6.60. In regard to who shall receive the pay for shearing, after a lengthy discussion, on motion it was deferred until after the scale for pick mining be made. That narrow work be paid for as per last year’s contract. That all break-throughs be paid entry price. All room- turning paid same as last year, except bottle-neck rooms ; when bottle-necked rooms are turned the price to be doubled. That 35 cents per yard be paid for wet entries. Where rooms are wet a deficiency of 3 cents per ton shall be paid. When top coal is left up for the protection of the roof it shall be paid for at 25 cents per yard. That 3 cents per inch per lineal yard shall be paid for all over 2 inches of draw slate, bone coal or dirt band. Moved, we notify the operators that we will meet them at 1 :30 p. m. Faulds and Hargroves were appointed a commit- tee to notify the operators. That blacksmithing*be done free of charge by the company. That powder be reduced to $1.50 per keg. We dernand the law in regard to weekly pay be complied with. Moved, that the Scale Committee be instructed to ask for a reasonable reduction in house rent. That horseback rolls and slips be paid for by the day at regular scale wages. That when we adjourn we adjourn until 8:30 a. m. Satur- day. President VanHorn announced that the delegates were especially invited to be present to hear Mr. Debs speak. The convention then adjourned. SATURDAY, MARCH 25TH. Convention called to order by President VanHorn. Spe- cial committee submitted the following: 698 United Mine Workers of America To the members of the convention : We, your committee to devise ways and means for south- ern part of state, submit the following report : We recommend the request of the representatives, in re- gard to extending the time for forcing scale prices, be granted, and that the time for calling the operators of that field be left to the discretion of the scale officials. We further recommend that in order to afford immediate relief and assistance to those men who are already locked out in Jackson’s, Little’s and Blackburn’s, that a levy of 5 per cent be in force, and in event the officials deem it necessary to inaugurate a fight in the southern field to force scale rates and proper conditions, the levy shall be increased not to exceed 10 per cent; and, we further recommend that any local failing to pay this levy shall be amenable as provided by locals failing to pay per capita tax. Wm. Blakeley, James Hutchinson, S. J. Caruthers, Committee. After a good deal of discussion it was amended to strike out 5 per cent and insert 2 per cent, and strike out 10 per cent and insert 5 per cent to be paid on all earnings, except powder, oil and smithing and to take effect at once. Carried. The convention continued to meet from day to day and adjourned to meet again when it thought the Scale Committee would have some report to make. * On Thursday the Scale Committee reported that they had reached an agreement, and, while not entirely satisfactory, it was the best that could be done. The report was received and acted on seriatim. All clauses of the contract were carefully read, discussed and adopted, except Clause 24, in regard to the semi-monthly pay. The committee was sent back to tiy to have the clause stricken out but it failed. The report was adopted, 22 voting for and 16 against. About 15 delegates not voting. Resolved, That the Tenth Annual Convention of District 11, protest against the present scale agreed to at Pittsburg, and pledge ourselves to sign no scale in the next National Con- vention which does not give us the right to determine the run- of-mine price by the actual percentages of screenings. Carried. District 11, Constitution, 1899 699 Resolved, That we extend a vote of thanks to our officers for the able way in which they conducted the affairs of the miners during the past year. , And to the Central Labor Union, of Terre Haute, for the many courtesies extended to the representatives during the time of the convention. Carried. Moved that the Tenth Annual Convention of District 11 adjourn, sine die. Carried. -i Signed, J. H. Kennedy, Secretary. CONSTITUTION DISTRICT 11, 1899. Article 1. — 'Name, Objects and Jurisdiction Section 1. This organization shall be known as District 11 of the United Mine Workers of America. Sec. 2. The objects of this union are to unite mine em- ployes and to ameliorate their conditions by methods of con- ciliation, arbitration or strikes. Sec. 3. This union shall have jurisdiction over all the bi- tuminous locals in the State of Indiana. Article II Section 1. The officers of this organization shall consist of one President, one Vice-President, one Secretary-Treasurer, and an Executive Board of seven members, three of whom shall be the President, Vice-President and Secretary-Treas- urer. Article III Section 1. The President shall preside at all conventions of the state organization. He shall sign all official documents when satisfied of their correctness. With the consent of the Executive Board he shall fill by appointment all vacancies occurring in office, and in like manner he is empowered to suspend or remove any officer for insubordination or just and sufficient cause. He shall act 'as general organizer for the State and attend to and settle all local disputes, with the con- sent of the members concerned, and shall exert a general supervision, over the affairs of the organization, but in no case shall he Substitute his own opinions for those set forth in this constitution. Sec. 2. The Vice-President shall be subject to the orders of the President, and in the event of the President’s office be- coming vacant through death or removal shall succeed that 700 United Mine Workers of America officer and assume all its responsibilities until the next con- vention. Sec, 3. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have charge of all books, documents and effects of the office. He shall record the proceedings of all conventions, and all the meetings of the Executive Board, and shall keep copies of all important letters sent out by him. He shall receive and receipt for all moneys, and pay all current expenses; he shall prepare and submit to the Executive Board a quarterly report of all moneys received and disbursed, and perform such other duties as may be as- signed to him. He shall give a bond of $500, to be secured by not less than two bondsmen. And at the expiration of his term of office he shall turn over all moneys and effects of the organization to his successor. Sec. 4. The Board shall examine the bond offered by the Secretary-Treasurer, and if, upon inquiry, it proves satisfac- tory, the President shall have it recorded in the proper office of each county in which said bondsmen may reside. In the event of the income being of such proportions as to render necessary an increase of the Secretary-Treasurer’s bond, the Board shall make such increase as they may deem sufficient. In the absence of conventions the Board shall have full power to direct the workings of the organization in all matters affect- ing its interest. The Board shall be convened by the President, or in case of a disagreement between the members of the Board and the President, the Secretary-Treasurer, at the request of three members of the Board, shall call it together. The Executive Board shall prepare and submit to the annual convention a report of its year’s transactions. Article IV. — Revenues Section 1. The revenue of this organization shall be de- rived from local unions under its jurisdiction, which shall pay the Secretary-Treasurer the sum of 10 cents per month, the same to be forwarded to him not later than the 25th of the month for which it is due. Fractional members to pay the same in proportion, and wherever practicable, the same shall be checked off by the Checkweighman. Article V.- — ConvetiHons Section 1. The regular convention shall be held in the city of Terre Haute, Indiana, on the second Tuesday in IMarch of each year, at which officers shall be elected for the ensuing year. Each local union having paid all dues, assessments and levies of the organization, shall be entitled to one vote for District 11, Constitution, 1899 701 fifty members or less, and one vote for each additional fifty members or major fraction thereof. Locals having less than thirty members may vote by proxy through any authorized delegate to the convention, provided 'said proxy shall be in the same form as a delegate’s credentials. Locals having more than one vote may send a delegate for each vote, or may give all the votes to one delegate, provided no delegate shall be allowed to cast more than three votes. This shall also apply to special conventions. Sec. 2. Any local union failing to pay dues to the District for three consecutive months shall be declared suspended until they have paid up all dues and assessments. Sec. 3. Any member failing to pay his dues for three months shall only be again admitted to membership upon pay- ment of initiation fee as provided for in the constitution. Article VI Section 1. The salary of the President and Secretary shall be $66 per month and all legitimate expenses, shall rise and fall with the price of mining at a ratio of $1 per month for each 1 cent per ton. Sec. 2. All members of the Executive Board, except sal- aried officers, shall receive $2.25 per day and expenses, subject to pro rata advance while performing their duties. Article VII Section 1. All nominations for State officers shall be sent to the Secretary not less than three weeks before the annual convention. Said nominations shall be compiled by him and be sent to all locals not later than two weeks prior to the con- vention. When more than two candidates are voted for, the lowest shall be dropped after each ballot until one candidate receives a majority of all votes cast, who shall be declared elected. Article VIII Section 1. Each local shall procure a seal and charter, to- gether with a supply of constitutions and transfer cards. Sec. 2. Each mine employing thirty men, two-thirds of whom are members of this organization, shall employ a check- weighman. The checkweighman shall act as financial secre- tary of the local, and, at the end of each month, shall make a report to the secretary-treasurer of the shipment of coal and number of days worked, on a form prepared by the executive board. ’ Article IX Section 1. The initiation fee shall be for a practical miner 702 United Mine Workers of America $5.00, for a non-practical man $20.00, but, when the best in- terest of the organization require it, the president may grant a lower initiation fee, but in no case shall it be less than $1.00. Article X Section 1. That during a strike or lock-out or other trou- ble, non-union men shall not receive any support from this district. Sec. 2. A member shall be in good standing at least three months previous to such trouble. Sec. 3. No man shall receive any benefits during a strike or lock-out, or other trouble, who was not working in or around the mine when the trouble arose. Article XI Section 1. Where members of the local union are idle by reason of difficulties in trade matters, and their position is en- dorsed by the state officers for a period of one month or the major fraction of each following month, they shall be exempt from payment of all dues and levies. BY-LAWS Section 1. All locals to provide their own by-laws in ac- cordance with the state and National constitution. Sec. 2. The constitution shall be altered or amended only at the regular annual convention. The following addition was made to the by-laws : All fees received by the president for organizing shall be state or dis- trict funds. JOINT AGREEMENT SUB-DISTRICT 1, DISTRICT 12. Coal City, Illinois, March 23, 1899. Agreement entered into this day between the representa- tives of the United Mine Workers of America, party of the first part, and the undersigned operators of the Wilmington coal field, known as sub-district No. 1, party of the second part, in joint convention assembled, to-wit: 1. That the household coal supplied to workmen shall be at the rate of one dollar and thirty-five cents per ton of 2,000 pounds at the mines, and the miners to have the option of send- ing any teamster for their coal. 2. Houses owned by the companies shall be rented to mine workers at the rate of one dollar per room per month. 3. That the companies agree to furnish the necessarj' props, cap-pieces and rails at the room face. 4. That the tool sharpener shall be on duty to sharpen all tools during the working hours of each shift. Wilmington, III., Joint Agreement 703 5. That all pit cars be put in proper condition. 6. That when a man has to leave his work he shall be hoisted out of said shaft when there is no coal at the shaft bottom. ' 7. That no coal be hoisted after the shaft quits except in actual case of emergency. This will not interfere with the hoisting of coal by the night shift. 8. That in case of any local trouble arising at any shaft the pit committee and the pit boss of said shaft shall be em- powered to adjust such grievances, and in case of their disa- greement it shall be referred to the superintendent of the company and the president of their local union; but should they fail to adjust the matter pending, the case or cases shall be referred to the officials of the company concerned and the state officers of the United Mine Workers of America, in writ- ing, for adjustment, and in all cases the miners and the parties involved must continue to work pending investigation and an adjustment until a final decision is reached in the manner above set forth. 9. That men drivers be paid the scale price of one dollar and seventy-five cents and all below this scale shall receive an advance of 5 cents per day over present prices. 10. That the companies furnish suitable conveyances and bandages for the removal of injured workmen from the shaft to their homes. 11. That all miners be allowed their turn of empty cars to load dirt in the daytime. 12. That rolls and deficient work be settled by the pit boss and men involved and if performed by the shift, scale prices shall be paid. 13. That all outside laborers receive an advance of 5 cents per day of eight hours over present prices paid. 14. That a heading in the Wilmin^on field shall be known as a road driven in the solid and putting in rooms at regular intervals, but does not cut off rooms. 15. That a cross road in the Wilmington field shall be known as a road driven across the working face of rooms, cutting them off and putting them in anew. 16. That a straight place in the Wilmington field shall be known as a road from which only cross roads and headings, as above described, are turned, and shall not be paid extra ton- nage. 17. That in cases where it is necessary to turn one room off another room (other th?in a cross road, heading or straight place) , cross road prices shall not be paid ; but providing that it is necessary to turn another room off room so turned, it shall 704 United Mine Workers of America then be declared a cross road, and be paid extra tonnage as such from second switch cross roads and headings as above described, to be paid nine (9) cents per ton extra; and turning a branch and putting in a shanty complete, four dollars and fifty cents ($4.50) shall be paid, and also when last room on any cross road or heading shall have been turned the extra tonnage shall cease. 18. That in cases where sulphur balls, Black Jack or other impurities are sent up by a miner, it shall be the duty of the trimmer on the car to call the attention of the checkweighman and weigh-boss to the same ; if the amount of impurities of any kind is small the miner shall be notified by the weigh-boss and checkweighman, also marking sulphur on the sheet. The second time the miner sends up unmarketable coal he shall be docked the whole car and the proceeds shall be paid to the Miners’ Accident Association, provided, after this second offense the miner continues to send up impurities, the weigh- man and checkman shall notify the superintendent of the company and the miner shall be discharged. This agreement to be in force April 1, 1899, and shall con- tinue until and including March 31, 1900. Operators: Wm. Harkes, Committee. Big 4 Wilmington Coal -Co., H. N. Taylor, General Manager. Wilmington Coal Mining & Mfg. Co., Jas. Dalzell, Treasurer. Star Coal Co. of Streator, III., C. H. Rathbun, Secretary. Chicago, Wilmington & Vermillion Coal Co., A. L. Sweet, President. Wilmington Star Mining Co., M. D. Buchanan, President. Braceville Coal Co., B. Wightman, Superintendent. Wm, Maltby. Miners : Percival Clark, President Sub-Dist. Board No. 1. of Dist. 12, U. M. W. of A. J. W. Anderson, Secretary Sub-district Board No. 1. William E. Smith, Member of State Executive Board of Illinois. W. D. Ryan, Secretary and Treasurer, U. M. W. of A. CHAPTER XXXII. PROCEEDINGS DISTRICT No. 2. Tyrone, Pa., March 23-4, 1899. Meeting called to order by President George Harris at 2 p. m. The circular call of convention was read, stating the object for calling the convention. The first order of business was the election of an assistant secretary. W. G. Witt was elected to fill the position of secre- tary by acclamation. The president then proceeded to appoint the following com- mittees : Committee on Credentials— Richard Gilbert, F. G. Brown, Morgan Watkins; on Resolutions — W. B. Wilson, James Cos- grove, Henry Northover, Henry Sherwin, James Robertson; on Appeals and Grievances — Frank Yahner, Simeon Harts- horn, Joseph Wilson, John Watkins, George Wilson; on Order of Business — Dyson Goodyear, Ernest Reber, Thomas Stead; Auditing — Richard Gilbert, Michael McTaggart. A motion was then made to exclude all newspaper report- ers from the convention. Motion carried. It was then moved that we take a recess for one hour until the committee on credentials could report. On resuming business the committee on credentials re- ported that upon examination of credentials they found that all delegates present were entitled to a voice and vote in the convention. It was then moved that each delegate be allowed five min- utes in which to state the grievance of his locality. Motion carried. President George Harris and Secretary J. T. Cline then read their reports. Motion was made that the reports be accepted. Carried. A motion was then made and carried that we adjourn. W. G. Witt, Assistant Secretary. ( 705 ) 706 United Mine Workers of America Tyrone, March 24, 1899. Meeting called to order at 8 :30 a. m. by President Harris. The committee on resolutions stated that they were ready to report, and the following resolutions were presented to the convention and adopted : Resolved, That we favor a general advance in wages, but we will not enter into a movement for a general advance until we have obtained uniformity on the present basis of 45 cents per long ton or its equivalent. Resolved, That all coal mined with machines shall be based on district price for pick mining, two-thirds of said price to be paid for loading after chain machines and three-fifths after punching machines. Resolved, That the foregoing resolutions go into effect on the 1st day of April, 1899. Resolved, That no district officer shall, at the same time that he is under the pay of the district, take the stump for any political party or person or accept any money or other compen- sation for any political service without the consent of the dis- trict convention or a majority of the members. Resolved, That we recommend that a checkweighman be placed on every tipple and the money be stopped through the company’s office. Resolved, That after April 1, 1899, all miners failing to re- ceive the district price of 45 cents per ton and two-thirds and three-fifths basis respectively for loading after machines shall suspend work until the district price is restored. Resolved, That no settlement shall be made at any mine or any portion of a mine until all the miners of the same operator have obtained a settlement. Whereas, The mining law is being violated in various lo- calities, and Whereas, Such violations could not and would not take place if all the mine inspectors performed their duty in ac- cordance with law, therefore be it Resolved, That in any locality where the mining law is be- ing violated and the local union or miners are unable to get the operators to remedy the same the local union shall call the attention of the district mine inspector to the same and if he fails to remedy the evil complained of, the local union shall report the matter to the district officers, who shall endeavor to have the evil corrected. Resolved, That we insist that the mine inspector shall be conducted through the mines by a mine committeeman instead of by a mine foreman, as at present. Tyrone Convention, District 2 707 Resolved, That we indorse the United Mine Workers Jour- nal as our official organ and that we earnestly advocate to our constituents that they become subscribers as far as possible, and especially that each local union' shall subscribe in order to keep in closer touch with the United Mine Workers of the entire country. Resolved, That in order to establish uniform prices throughout District No. 2 all miners working after March 31, 1899, shall pay 5 cents per ton on pick-mined coal and 3 cents per ton on machine-mined coal to support those miners con- tending for uniform rates. Resolved, That our district officers shall be instructed to call a joint conference of operators and miners at as early a date as possible for the purpose of securing a better under- standing respecting the condition of the miners and the coal trade generally, but no conference shall be called unless in their opinion a sufficient number of operators manifest a dis- position to attend such a conference. Resolved, That eight hours shall constitute a day’s work. Resolved, That we abolish the free-turn system at all mines and that when the conference of operators and miners is held we formulate a dead-work scale to govern the district. Resolved, That we urge this convention to ask for a sealer of weights and measures. Resolved, That we favor the enactment of the employers’ liability bill, known as House Bill No. 299. Whereas, The mining bureau of this state was formed for the purpose of enforcing the mining laws in a more uniform and vigorous manner, and as we know it would be to the best interests of the miners to have one of their own craft as chief of the mining bureau, therefore be it Resolved, That the delegates of this convention represent- ing the miners of District No. 2 indorse and recommend to Hon. Wm. Stone, Governor of Pennsylvania, T. A. Bradley, of Lilly, knowing him to be fully qualified to fill the position as chief of said bureau with satisfaction to the miners and to the mining interest and with credit and honor to his superiors. The auditors then submitted their report. Upon motion the report was accepted and committee dis- charged. The convention then proceeded with the election of officers for the ensuing term. The following officers were elected: W. B. Wilson, president; Richard Gilbert, secretary -treasurer ; Bernard Rice, vice-president; Ernest Reber, Simeon Harts- 708 United Mine Workers of America horn, James Cosgrove, Thos. Moriarity, Andy Malody, George Wilson, executive hoard. Upon motion the retiring officers were tendered a vote of thanks. A motion was made and carried that we hold mass meet- ings throughout the district on April 1 to agitate and place before the miners the resolutions adopted at this convention. Upon motion, the power was given the executive board to appoint time for calling and place for holding next convention. The following officers then addressed the convention : George Harris, Pat Dolan, Wm. Warner, Edward McKay, Chris Evans, W. B. Wilson, R. Gilbert. Upon motion, the convention was declared adjourned. (Signed) W. B. Wilson, President. Richard Gilbert, Secretary-Treasurer. ORGANIZED AND UNORGANIZED MINERS Pittsburg, Pa., March 28, 1899. Convention of organized and unorganized miners came to order at 10 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair, and the following were appointed as credentials committee: Hugh McLaughlin, Edward Harrington and James Daily. AFTERNOON SESSION Convention came .to order. President Dolan in the chair. Credentials committee reported the following delegates en- titled to seats: G. W. Fulton, Robt. Gordan, John Hurton, James Murray, Edward Thomas, Robt. Jenkins, Joseph Don- ald, Chris Lax, Bartley McManus, James Campbell, John Craner, H. L. Jones, John T. Elmer, Thos. Brown, John Walk- er, L. B. Leadbeater, Curtis B'eaumont, Samuel J. Howey, Robt. McCallum, James Stevenson, Frank Haywood, James Watchorn, Wm. Frew, John Murray, Wm. Strausser, H. G. Cox, James McFarland, Jacobs Padgelick, Wm. .Davis, John Penka, J. H. Coking, James Byford, W. C. Cline, S. P. Mun- sey, W. R. Wilson, J. W. Davis, Richard Williams, T. H. John- son, Thomas Chattaway, John McGoulgrick, J. S. Neff, J. W. Van Fosson, Frank Naylor, Herbert Wilding, Wm. Roberts, James Oates, R. S. Nelson, John Baumiller, Thos. F. Conley, Organized and Unorganized Miners 709 David Graham, Hugh McLinden, John Henderson, Geo. W. Rigby, Frank McVey, Edward Harrington, John McClintock, John Neale, H. Grage, J. E. Harrispn, W. G. Russell, James Miller, Frank McKenna, Matthew Kerrigan, Steve Stomick, Wm. Little, H. McLaughlin, J. C. Hileman, E. M. Muldonny, Mike Pyers, Ernest Widower, Thos. Butterworth, Robt. Wal- lace, Sam Harger, Wilson Conner, John McCoole, Wm. Grant, Jacob Haidle, James Baling, James Daily, James Bretton, Jos. Jones, Monton Brick, Jacob Weber, Thos. West, Dan Vilkey, J. C. Butler, Andrew Young, Geo. Vikes, Dan Simpson, Frank Morgan, Thos. Sheehan, Geo. Parker, J. C. Wilson, Evan R. Richards, Jesse Byns, John Sykes, Thos. Young. The committee’s report was accepted, and reporters ad- mitted. President Dolan read the call for the convention. Motion, that the same rules that governed former conven- tions be the rules to govern this convention, and when ten men call for a roll call the same shall be taken. Amended that each delegate have a vote. Chair appointed J. Murray, R. Gordan and William Frew as committee to keep order and take list of all delegates who persist in being disorderly. Secretary read the scale as drawn up by the committee and agreed to by the operators. Motion, that report be received and taken up seriatim. Carried. As per order the following corrections were adopted. First correction in scale relating to pick entries. Second, relating to drains in all places. Third, relating to cutting with punching machines. Fourth, relating to loading after punching machine. Fifth, relating to loading after all chain machines. Sixth, additions to scale relating to wet entries and thick slate. Motion, that we adopt the scale as a whole. Agreed to. The differential between thin and thick vein was next taken up, and papers as presented by both thick and thin vein operators were read. 710 United Mine Workers of America President Dolan also explained our position on the matter and what had been proposed. Motion, that the chairman appoint a committee of three to present the thin vein proposition from operators to thick vein operators, and try to bring about another joint meeting. Carried. Chairman appointed committee as follows : William Little, Joseph Donald, Thomas Sheehan. Convention adjourned until tomorrow. William Dodds, Secretary-Treasurer. MORNING SESSION Convention came to order at 9:30 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair. Report of committee appointed previous to adjournment March 28. Report was that thick vein operators would do all in their power to have a meeting tomorrow at 10 a. m., to consider our representations. Mr. John Sykes, Local Union No. 478, New England, and Thomas Young, Little Redstone Mine, were admitted as dele- gates, making the total delegation 101. President Dolan here gave a short address. Meeting adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION Convention came to order at 1 p. m., with President Dolan in the chair, and discussion was indulged in on general con- ditions. Motion, that all delegates, organized and unorganized, on their return home have a 10 per cent levy sent in to the secre- tary-treasurer as soon as possible to pay for the expenses and bills to hand. Carried. Meeting adjourned. MORNING SESSION, MARCH 30, 1899 Convention came to order at 9 :30 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair, and first business was roll call on instruc- tions of delegates. The question was raised as to the advisability of reporters being present during roll call. Organized and Unorganized Miners 711 Motion, that we request reporters to retire and that a press committee be appointed. Carried. Press Committee — John McGinty, Mm. Roberts and Wm. Dodds. The roll was called and instructions of delegates follow : Seventy-two delegates reported their miners working eight hours per day ; 20 that the eight-hour day was not being carried out in their mines; and differential instructions were 30 with discretionary power, 6 for arbitration, 35 for 6 6-10, 16 for 13 2-10, 14 to abolish differential entirely, and 5 for all the miners in the district to strike if thick vein miners had to strike. Motion, that we observe April 1st as a general holiday. Carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION Convention came to order with President Dolan in the chair, and a letter from H. J. Lawrence was read, to the effect that thick vein operators could not give us their answer until about 3 p. m. Motion, that we take a recess. Carried. At 3 p. m. the convention came to order and operators Dempster, Schleuderberg, Jones and Dysart of thin vein were present, no thick vein operators being present. President Dolan went to call them by telephone, and on his return noti- fied the convention that someone would be here shortly. In a few minutes a communication was received stating that they would not meet the thin vein operators along with us. Mr. Schleuderberg desired to know if it would be out of place to address the convention. Motion, that we now hear the thin vein operators’ side of the question. Carried. Messrs. Schleuderberg, Dysart and Jones gave short and interesting addresses. Motion, that we hear *Mr. Dempster’s reply to the thick vein operators’ communication. 712 United Mine Workers of America Mr. Dempster replied to a few items specifically, and his address was quite lengthy, and then the thin vein operators retired, promising to come back when desired by us. Motion, that we send the committee to invite the thick vein operators to be present with us tomorrow at 9 :30 a. m., and that if the thick vein operators’ committee do not appear be- fore this convention by 10 a. m., we proceed to do business. Carried. President Dolan declared convention adjourned until to- morrow. MORNING SESSION — MARCH 31, 1899 Convention came to order at 9 :30 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair. Committee to see thick vein operators reported that operators would be here at 10 a. m. Motion, that the report be received and committee con- tinued.' Carried. Reporters retired. Alex Grant, of Walkers Mills, was allowed a seat, but no vote. Thick vein operators Osbourne, Snowden, Blackburn, Baine, Rodgers and Lawrence entered the convention, and made short addresses in rotation, as follows : Lawrence, Rodg- ers, Baine, Snowden and Osborne, Mr. Blackburn not making an address, and they all retired. President Dolan then appointed resolution committee as follows: Wm. Frew, John Murray, James Murray, Edward Thomas, James Miller, S. J. Howe and Joseph Donald. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION President Dolan called the convention to order, and the resolutions committee not being ready to report, the conven- tion took a recess. At 2:30 p. m. President Dolan called the convention to order. Resolutions reported and adopted : Whereas, According to statements made by the various delegates, a few of the miners that have not the checkoff sys- tem are fully represented ; therefore, be it Organized and Unorganized Miners 713 Resolved, That we recommend that an effort be made to establish the checkoff system in all the districts. Whereas, Some delegates, pretending to voice the senti- ments of all the thick vein delegates, stated to the Pittsburg papers yesterday that if the convention would take any action toward changing the differential said delegates would bolt the convention and the organization ; therefore, be it Resolved, That we, the undersigned delegates of the thick vein do condemn the delegate that made such false statements, and we declare emphatically that he did not voice our senti- ments. Resolved, further. That we wish it to be understood that we mean to abide by the decision of the majority of this con- vention, and will do all in our power to get our consituents to do the same. (Signed by 16 delegates.) Whereas, It has pleased the Almighty to take from our midst our highly esteerned brother, James Kilduff, ex-Secre- tary-Treasurer of District 2, United Mine Workers of Amer- ica, we, .the miners of the Pittsburg district, assembled in convention, do express our deepest sympathy and regret at losing so faithful and ardent a worker in the miners’ cause, and that we have a copy of this sent to the bereaved family and published in the daily press. Resolved, That we give the operators of both thick and thin vein until April 10, 1899, to consent to our proposition on arbitration. Adjourned until tomorrow. MORNING SESSION — APRIL 1, 1899 Convention came to order at 9 :30 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair. Resolved, That we are in favor of submitting the differ- ential question to arbitration, and if the operators agree to this proposition the decision of the arbitrators shall be effective from April 1, 1899, to March 31, 1900, or during our scale year. Adopted after a lengthy discussion. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION The convention was called to order at 1 p. m. by Presi- dent Dolan. The following resolutions were adopted: 714 United Mine Workers of America That the district officers and executive board have full charge of arbitration arrangements. Bills before the legislature, which were numbered 184, 299, 365, 371, 378 and 383 were endorsed by the resolution commit- tee and recommended to the convention. That we favor the passage of these bills, and that the sec- retary notify the parties in the legislature who have charge of these bills to this effect. That the organized delegates go into executive session on Monday morning at 10 a. m., and take up the investigation committee’s report and dispose of same. Motion, that we adjourn. MORNING SESSION — APRIL 3, 1899 Delegates representing the organized miners came to order at 10 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair. President Dolan announced the purpose of this special convention, namely the investigation committee’s report, and requested that a disinterested delegate be elected chairman of this convention during this report and action on same. Hugh McLaughlin was declared elected and took the chair. Motion, that Brothers Dolan and Warner be allowed to re- main in the hall, but that we allow no controversy between them; and that the secretary of the investigating committee read out the minutes taken during their investigation. Carried. The convention adjourned. William Dodds, Secretary-Treasurer. AFTERNOON SESSION Convention came to order at 1 p. m., with Mr. McLaughlin in the chair. The chairman appointed F. McKenna and John McGinty to keep reporters out. Secretary Goaziou, of investigating committee, read out the minutes of their sessions. Motion, that the report be received and read. Carried. Report was read and discussed and explanations given by several members of the committee. Organized and Unorganized Miners 715 Motion, that we now hear from Warner and Dolan. Carried. President Dolan stated his side, of the question of differ- ence between him and Brother Warner, ^and the convention adjourned. MORNING SESSION — APRIL 4, 1899 The convention came to order at 9 :30 a. m., with Chair- man McLaughlin presiding. Mr. Warner took the floor to present his side of the case, and kept the floor up to five minutes of 12 o’clock, when the chairman adjourned the convention. AFTERNOON SESSION Convention convened at 1 p. m., with Mr. McLaughlin in the chair, and Mr. Warner resumed his address up to fifteen minutes after 2 p. m. Motion, that Warner and Dolan retire. Lost. President Dolan requested and was given the floor for ten minutes. A resolution committee was appointed to draft a resolution on this case, consisting of Thomas Brown, John Sykes and John Murray. Motion, that committee retire while we take up other busi- ness. Carried. Auditor Kerrigan here made the report of their audit for February, and replied to Mr. Warner’s letter in the Journal relating to their report. Motion, that report be received. Carried. During the discussion of above motion Mr. Warner’s ex- pense account for February was produced and read. Warner and Dolan retired. The resolution committee here gave their report. Motion, that the resolution be referred back to the commit- tee for alteration. Carried. 716 United Mine Workers of America The time for adjournment having arrived, the chairman declared the convention adjourned. MORNING SESSION — APRIL 5, 1899 The convention came to order at 9:30 a. m., with Mc- Laughlin in the chair. The committee on resolutions made a report stating their inability to agree, when other resolutions introduced caused a continued discussion that lasted during the entire morning session, and the convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION Convention came to order at 1 p. m., with Mr. McLaughlin in the chair. President Dolan wished to have the floor for a while. Motion, that President Dolan have the floor. Carried. President Dolan here took the floor for a few minutes, and in his remarks said that he did not expect that he was to be kept outside of this convention so long, and hoped the dele- gates would get down to business and come to some conclusion. A substitute to take the place of all resolutions under con- sideration was presented and read as follows: Whereas, Our organization is suffering from the effects of the financial trouble in the district that has been drifting along for several months between the President and our ex- Secretary-Treasurer, that we feel it necessary to put a stop to it in a way that will be just and satisfactory to the members of our organization, Resolved, That we hold Mr. Warner responsible for the overpayment of wages to the district officials, and that we request the district executive board to demand of our ex- Secretary-Treasurer that he refund to his successor in office all moneys overpaid to any official in the district, and on his refusing to do the same that the district executive board enter suit for the recovery of all moneys in dispute in behalf of the members of the district organization. Motion, That the substitute as read be adopted. Carried. The following delegates wished to go on record as voting against substitute: Richard Williams, John Sykes, E. M. Mul- Indiana Joint Agreement, 1899 717 downey, John Baumiller, W. C. Cline, William Richard, Ed- ward Thomas, William Russell, T. H. Johnson and Hugh Mc- Linden. , President Dolan here took the chair. Motion, that we give Mr. McLaughlin a vote of thanks for the impartial way he has treated the delegates during this case. Carried. Delegate Richard Williams voting in the nega- tive. Motion, that the books and documents belonging to the district be turned over to the Secretary-Treasurer by the in- vestigating committee. Carried. Motion, that we give a vote of thanks to the investigating committee and that they be discharged. Carried. Mr. Smith stated that there was some personal property of Mr. Warner’s in among the documents, and wished them to be returned to him. Motion that the two men who had charge of the books and documents open the package and let us see all the property. Carried. Motion, that we adjourn sine die. Convention adjourned. William Dodds, Secretary-Treasurer. AGREEMENT BETWEEN MINERS AND OPERATORS OF DISTRICT No. 11. The following agreement entered into in the joint .State convention at Terre Haute, Indiana, March 29, 1899, by and between the bituminous operators and miners of the State, witnesseth : First — That the declaration of the contract by and between the operators of the competitive coal fields and the United Mine Workers of America, entered into at Chicago, Illinois, January 26, 1898, and at Columbus, Ohio, March 10, 1898, and reaffirmed at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, January 24, 1899, be and hereby are, reaffirmed in the identical terms therein em- ployed. 718 United Mine Workers of America Second — That further details and scale of prices for pick and machine mining in the State of Indiana for one year, beginning April 1, 1899, shall be as follows : Pick Mining Yardage — In entries 7 to 9 feet wide, $1.37; in entries 12 feet, price shall be five-eighths of narrow work, or 851/2 cents. Wide entries shall not exceed 12 feet, it being understood that this applies to entry work only. Break-throughs — Break-throughs in entries shall be paid for at entry price. Break-throughs between rooms, when sheared or blocked, shall be paid for at entry price, but no break-throughs shall be driven without the consent of the operator. Nothing herein shall interfere with strict com- pliance with the law governing break-throughs. Room Turning — Room turning, $3.30. Room necks to be driven 12 feet in, and widened at an angle of 45 degrees, when so desired by operator. Any distance in excess of above shall be paid for proportionately. Machine Work Yardage — In entries 7 to 9 feet wide, 98 cents ; in entries 12 feet, five-eighths of price for narrow entries, or 61 cents. When the machine runners in 12 foot entries are paid by the day, and entry is not sheared, the shooters and loaders shall be paid two-thirds of the yardage. It is understood that this applies to entry work only. Break-throughs — Break-throughs between entries, same as entry price. Break-throughs between rooms shall be paid for at entry price when similarly driven. This applies to width and not to method of mining. Room Turning — Room turning, $2.47^. Room necks to be driven 12 feet in and widened at an angle of 45 degrees, when so desired by operators. Any distance in excess of the above shall be paid for proportionately. When room necks are driven 12 feet wide price shall be five-eighths of regular price, or $1. 541 / 2 - Day Work Punching Machines — Machine cutting, when paid for by the day, shall be for cutter, $2.35; helper, $1.85. Day Work Chain or Cutter Bar Machine — When paid by the day shall be: Cutter, $2.35; helper, $2.11. It being under- stood that a day’s work shall not be less than twenty-seven cuts. All cuts in excess of twenty-seven shall be paid for pro- portionately. Price Per Ton for Machine Mining — When paid for by the ton the price of coal mined with machines shall be three- quarters of the price paid for pick-mined coal, or 49V2 cents. Indiana Joint Agkeement, 1899 719 The prices per ton after chain machines shall remain the same at the respective mines as during the year ending April 1, 1899. Blacksmithing — The price of blacksmithing shall be one and one-quarter cents on the dollar, excepting after chain machines, where no blacksmithing shall be charged. General It is further agreed that if any differences arise between the operators and the miners at any pit, a settlement shall be arrived at without stopping work. If the parties immediately affected can not reach an adjustment between themselves, the question shall be referred without delay to a board of arbitra- tion consisting of two operators selected by the operators in- terested and two miners selected by District No. 11, United Mine Workers of America. In event of these four being un- able to reach a decision, they shall select a fifth man, and the decision of a board so constituted shall be final, but no miner or operator interested in the differences shall be a member of said board. That where the coal is paid for mine-run or on screened coal basis, it shall be mined in a careful, workmanlike manner, and when loaded on the miner’s car it shall, as nearly as possi- ble, be free from slate, bone dal, sulphur and other impurities. Payment for all labor shall be made twice a month, not later than the 10th and 25th of each month. It is further agreed that the operators shall offer no ob- jection to the checkoff for checkweighman and for dues for the federation, provided that no checkoff shall be made against any person until he shall have first given his consent in writ- ing to his employer. This applies to all underground day work, as well as miners. The time of beginning work in the morning and the length of intermission at noon shall be considered a local question. Resolutions Resolved, That while the number of stoppages for various causes during the past year has decreased, it is still the opin- ion of both miners and operators that sufficient attention has not been paid by either side to the agreement — “That if any differences arise between the operators and the miners at any pit a settlement skall be arrived at without stopping of work.” It is the unanimous opinion of both miners and operators that this agreement should be strictly observed by both. We wish particularly to call attention to the fact that all such differ- ences, even in the event of stoppage, have been settled by arbi- tration and work resumed, and had the agreement been strictly 720 United Mine Workers of America observed these stoppages would not have occurred, the same settlement would have been secured, and both miners and operators would have been saved the heavy losses caused by these stoppages. That these resolutions be compiled in the form of a con- tract, and signed by the president and secretary of the United Mine Workers of America, representing District No. 11, and the president and secretary of the Bituminous Coal Opera- tors’ Association of Indiana, that they be printed and a copy sent to each and every mine and posted. In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names this 30th day of March, 1899. W. D. Van Horn, President, United Mine Workers of America, District 11. Attest: J. H. Kennedy, Secretary. J. Smith Talley, President, Bituminous Coal Operators’ Association of Indiana. Attest: J. W. Landrum, Secretary, Bituminous Coal Operators’ Association of Indiana. CONVENTION OF HOCKING VALLEY MINERS Nelsonville, Ohio, March 30, 1899. Convention was called to order by President Hardy at 10 a. m. The call for the convention was then read as follows : Orbiston, Ohio, March 22. — At the request of President Haskins, of the Ohio miners, your local is hereby requested to send a delegate to a meeting to be held in Nelsonville, Ohio, March 30, 1899, at 10 o’clock, at the Coleman House. Dele- gates will be requested to act upon the following: First — Are you in favor of allowing companies to reduce width of entries from four to three cuts? Second — To express your opinion as to whether the present yardage on double shift entries shall continue or not. Hoping that all locals will give this call a hearty response. Motion to accept the same and act upon it prevailed. The following delegates were present : — Thos. Lacks, Thos. Cairns, Geo. Shackert, John Gears, Pat Loper, Irvin Nanna, James Bayliss, James Hardy. On the question of the appointment of committees, it was moved to go into executive session, as a committee of the whole. Motion prevailed. Hocking Valley Miners’ Convention 721 President Haskins, of the Ohio miners, was then called upon to explain the reason why this meeting was called, and he responded, going into the details which gave rise to the necessity for calling the meeting to the satisfaction of all present, after which a suggestion was offered that we enter into a general debate on the propositions submitted prior to calling the roll. Delegates then explained their views and the action of their locals on the matter. Noon hour having arrived, it was moved that we adjourn for dinner and reconvene at 12 m. Carried. AFTERNOON SESSION Meeting called to order at 12 m. All representatives present. Motion was made that we still maintain the yardage on double shift entries, and that we also maintain that all narrow work be driven four cuts wide. On roll call the question of allowing the companies to re- duce width of narrow work from four to three cuts was unanimously objected to, and on the question as to whether the present yardage price on double shift entries should con- tinue or not, a unanimous affirmative vote was recorded. National Executive Board Member Dilcher was present, and spoke at length, advising the delegates present to do all in their power to bring about a closer relationship in the mem- bers of their locals. He also assured the state and sub-district officials that the National Board stood ready at all times to send all the support in their power to aid them in strengthen- ing the organization in this field. He also advised in justice to the operators that the delegates adopt resolutions providing a specific width for narrow work, irrespective of the width of the machine cutter head. President Haskins also spoke at length on the necessity for active co-operation on the part of all officials in the organi- zation to better the conditions of the miners in general all over the field. The delegates present also expressed their opinions that we should all have closer affiliation with each other, after 722 United Mine Workers of America which Brother Dilcher’s suggestion was acted upon in the following manner. Moved, That we demand that all narrow work be driven not less than 12 feet wide. Carried unanimously. Moved to adjourn. Carried. James Hardy, President. Joseph Richards, Secretary. JOINT AGREEMENT, BEAVER VALLEY, PITTSBURG DISTRICT SCALE. April 1, 1899 to March 31, 1900, agreed to at joint confer- ence of operators and Miners. Wampum, May 10, 1899. One-inch screen coal, per ton of 2,000 pounds $ .71 Run-of-mine, per ton of 2,000 pounds .47 1-1 Entries 7 feet wide, coal to company, per yard 2. .50 Wet entries, 7 feet wide, coal to company, per yard, extra .25 Double shift entries, 7 ft. wide, coal to company, per yard extra .25 Air courses, where bottom is taken up, per yard 1.00 Air courses, where bottom is not taken up, per yard .75 Room-turning, neck not to exceed 21 feet 3.00 Break-throughs between rooms, per yard .65 Where bone coal comes down from 1% to 6 inches in thickness, extra per ton .05 Pick sliarpening shall be, per ton .01 Ingersoll Machine Scale one inch screen Undercutting in rooms, per ton -1614 Loading in rooms, per ton .35% I'ndercutting, all narrow work, per ton, 16 9-10 and 20c per yard extra. Loading, all narrow work, per ton .45% Narrow work includes entries, air courses, room-turning and break-tliroughs. Signed by Operators : H. K. Hartsuff, R. H. Mehard. Matthew Gunton, Miners’ Committee: Sam Frye, A. S. Hill, Hugh Jackson, Dan F. Lutz, Alex Young, Wm. Condron, Geo. Galbraith, R. McMillan. Approved May 11, 1899. P. Dolan, President. Wm. Dodds, Secretary-Treasurer. District No. 5, U. M. W. of A. Eight-Hour Day Celebration 723 On April 1, 1899, the mine workers of Nelsonville, Ohio, celebrated the eight-hour movement with great enthusiasm. National Secretary W, C. Pearce and John P. Jones of Colum- bus, Ohio, were the orators and their reception was intensely interesting from the standpoint of numbers present and the mine workers’ band of music that rendered such efficient service which made the celebration unusually attractive. Alexander Johnson was made chairman, and the happy vein of thoughts expressed in his opening remarks secured for him the retention of love and esteem that had so long en- deared him in the hearts of the Hocking Valley miners that he had served so well in peace and in storm. Hon. Asher Buckley, mayor of the city, delivered the ad- dress of welcome eulogizing in strong terms the advanced steps made by the mine workers’ organization that had contributed so much towards stimulating action on the part of other trades. Ex-president Jones, in his address, complimented Charley highly, and said he was proud to say and glad to know that he had the distinction of appointing such a worthy la,bor leader as Charley Pearce had proven himself to be. Chairman John- son closed the meeting with a strong invitation for an in- creased membership in the union that had reduced the hours of labor and done so much to improve conditions around the mines. From a detailed semi-annual report made out by Secretary T. L. Lewis of District No. 6, July 8, 1899, the auditors ap- pointed reported as follows: AUDITOR’S SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT. To the officers and members of District 6, U. M. W. of A. We, your Committee on Auditing, having examined all books, receipts and vouchers, find them properly kept and also correct in every particular, and desire to submit the following report : Receipts — Balance on hand January 1, 1899, $1,699.57 ; Receipts for six months, $4,258.85. Expense — Salaries and expenses, $2,849.78; Incidental, $652.13; Relief, $400.00; Total, $3,901.91. 724 United Mine Workers of America Balance on hand June 30, 1899, $2,056.51. We certify that the Secretary-Treasurer presented drafts and certified checks on banks showing that there was on de- posit June 30, 1899, $2,056.51. G. Savage, S. H. Wilson, W. T. Evans, Auditing Committee. DAVIS RESIGNS. “Indianapolis, Indiana, July 17, 1899. “John Mitchell, President U. M. W. of A., Stevenson Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. “Dear Sir and Brother : — It is with feelings of the utmost regret that I take the present opportunity of placing in your hands my resignation of the office of Vice-President of our organization, to take effect on the 31st day of the present month, July, 1899. “I beg to assure you and the membership generally that in the future, as in the past, I shall rejoice at everj’- forward step taken to advance the interest of my fellow-craftsmen, so that more comfortable conditions of employment may be theirs in the future and a greater compensation paid them for the labor they perform than ever before. “I am, yours respectfully, “Thos. W. Davis.” Anent the above resignation we can only say that Brother Davis has informed us that he has not resigned through any unpleasant friction or lack of courtesy upon the part of his colleagues in office, or from the rank and file of our members, and expresses his appreciation of the many kindnesses re- ceived from the miners during the many years he has been in their employ, and that it is with a feeling of reluctance that he, for business reasons, now severs his official connection with the United Mine Workers of America. Tom, as he is familiarly called, has been almost constantly employed in some official capacity by our organization for the past U\’-elve years, during which time he has always proven himself an active, honest, agressive worker. There is perhaps, no man in connection with the organization who possesses a greater store of knowledge concerning mining affairs than Vice-Presi- dent Davis, who was frequently dubbed “our walking encyclo- pedia.” He is widely knowm and respected, because of his practical knowledge, and of late years has been regarded as Tennessee Joint Convention 725 authority upon the many intricate problems which so fre- quently arise in connection with the coal business. Tom is noted among miners for his conservatism, practicability and geniality, and will be sorely missed fn the future councils of our craft. We believe that it is with a feeling of reluctance that he is released from official position, and think that we voice the sentiments of the majority of our members in wish- ing his prosperity and happiness in future life. Personally there is no man connected with the organization that seemed more near to us than Brother Davis, and we regret very much to be deprived of his warm, friendly, elevating companion- ship, and we desire to publicly acknowledge our appreciation of his abilities, thank him for many favors, and express the hope that in the future he may be endowed with the blessings of life which his honor and abilities merit. W. C. Scott, Editor, United Mine Workers Journal. JOINT CONVENTION— COAL CREEK, TENN. Miners’ joint convention called to order at 8:30 a. m., July 17, 1899, President Smith in the chair. Convention opened with prayer by C. L. Polston. President Smith appointed committees on credentials, or- der of business, resolutions, and scale. Credential committee reported twenty-four delegates en- titled to seats and voice, which was accepted. Committee on order of business reported and same ac- cepted. Scale committee’s report was taken up seriatim. Report was adopted with corrections. Resolution committee reported and report was accepted as a whole. Convention adjourned till 8:30 a. m., July 18th. SECOND DAY’S SESSION. Convention called to order by President. Chair appointed committee to inform operators that we were ready to meet them. Operators arrived at 10 :00 a. m. After considerable discussion convention adjourned. afternoon session. Convention called to order at 1 p. m. by President Smith. 726 United Mine Workers of America Miners’ scale was presented to the operators for their con- sideration, which was discussed pro and con, operators asking for an extension of time for good reasons. The chair declared an adjournment till 10:00 a. m., July 27, 1899. T. J. Smith, Chairman, J. S. McCracken, Secretary. JOINT CONVENTION, JULY 27TH. Convention called to order with President T. J. Smith in chair. T. J. Smith was elected chairman of joint convention. J. R. Wooldridge was elected secretary of operators; J. S. Mc- Cracken was elected secretary of miners. By motion Major E. C. Camp was allowed the floor to read his document on Coal Creek conditions, which paper was tabled by convention. The scale was read. On motion the chair appointed Col. T. H. Heald, Hywell Davis and W. T. Lewis as scale committee for operators, to meet miners’ scale committee. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order at 2 p. m. by chair. Operators’ proposition was presented to convention, which was referred l)ack to scale committee for their further con- sideration. Convention was declared adjourned till 8 p. m. by the chairman. NIGHT SESSION. Called to order by Chairman Smith. Scale committee reported. Operators offered a ten per cent advance all round, with a further advance of 2yo per cent to be left to arbitration. Moved and carried, that we accept the advance of ten per cent, all round, and leave 21/2 per cent to arbitration. Moved that the vote be made unanimous. Carried. Tennessee Joint Convention 727 Signed on behalf of operators : Col. T. H. Heald, Hywell Davis, W. T. Lewis, J. R.. Wooldridge, Secretary. For the miners: J. W. Howe, W. K. Smith, Joe Woods, J. S. Bell, Dist. Ex. Board Member. W. R. Fairley, G. W. Eustler, H. G. Bryant, Natl. Ex. Board Member. T. J. Smith, Pres. Dist. 19. J. S. McCracken, Sec.-Treas. Convention adjourned to meet on the last Thursday in July, 1900, to formulate a new scale. T. J. Smith, Chairman. J. S. McCracken, Secretary for Miners. J. R. Wooldridge, Secretary for Operators. AGREEMENT OF ARBITRATORS LATER. The arbitrators appointed by Coal Creek convention met in Knoxville, Tennessee, October 11, 1899. On motion, W. R. Fairley was elected chairman; Arthur Groves and J. S. Mc- Cracken, secretaries, after which there was considerable dis- cussion by Fairley and Hywell Davis. On motion, the meeting adjourned until 2 o’clock. p. m. At the stated time the board was again called to ^rder by the chairman. After a short explanation of contract by Colonel Heald, on motion a committee of one operator and one miner was appointed to write the decision of the board. W. R. Fairley represented the miners and Hywell Davis the operators. The following agreement was the result of their labor. We, the undersigned arbitrators appointed by the Coal Creek convention, hereby agree to grant the additional 2 V 2 per cent, making a total advance of twelve and one-half (I 2 V 2 ) per cent on the price in effect before the said Coal Creek agreement went into effect, August 1, 1899. This modification regarding the date of said 21/^ per cent going into effect November 1, 1899, is mutually agreed in or- AGREEMENT. 728 United Mine Workers of America der to dispense with the necessity of submitting the case to a referee. T. H. Heald. Hywell Davis. Approved: Arthur Groves, Secretary. M. S. Elliott. Joe Vasey. J. S. McCracken, Secy-Treas., Dist. 19. W. R. Fairley, Natl. Board Member, U. M. W. of A. Respectfully yours, J. S. McCracken. CHAPTER XXXIII. PITTSBURG ADJOURNED CONVENTION, JULY 20, 1899. Adjourned convention of June 14th and 17th met at 10 a. m., with Vice-President Buchan in the chair. Committee on credentials was appointed as follows: H. Walker, William Feick, James Elliott. Convention adjourned. Wm. Dodds, Secretary-Treasurer. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention came to order at 1 p. m., with Vice-President Buchan in chair. Credential committee reported the following delegates with proper credentials : Solomon Chambers, John Patterson, Frank Donaldson, Joseph Donald, Edward Thomas, John J. Mullen, John Ward, Thomas West, Thomas Sheehan, Wm. J. Russell, Robert Kind, Paul Trimmer, Adam Fox, John Sykes, Peter Deighon, Thomas Pullen, John Callahan, Jas. Watchorn, Joseph Glancey, John Hill, H. L. Jones, James Elliott, John Kramer, D. J. Connelly, Hugh McLinden, Thomas Butter- worth, John McGinty, Wm. H. Miller, Hugh McBride, James McFarland, Henry Walker, Richard Brady, John Morgan, Pittsburg Adjourned Convention 729 George Wilson, Tim Donovan, and Wm. Grant and Wm. Feick without seals on their credentials. Signed by committpe : Jas. Elliott, Wm. Feick, Henry Walker. Motion, that the report of the credential committee be received. Carried. Motion that we now hear the report of the Executive Board on the facts and figures presented by thick vein opera- tors to substantiate the contention that the differential should be reduced; and That we now go into executive session. Carried. The report of the Executive Board was read as follows : Whereas, We, the Executive Board of District No. 5, United Mine Workers of America, having agreed in joint session with the operators to work along certain lines in considering the question of differential between thick and thin vein of this district, and according to instructions from previous conven- tions of our constituents, after carefully going over the data submitted to us, do hereby resolve : That the facts and figures submitted by thin vein operators are not in compliance with the resolution jointly agreed to on May 18, 1899, and that they have not proven that the conten- tion is justifiable that the differential should be reduced. Resolved, further. That while the data submitted by the thin vein operators does not prove that the differential should be altered, and that said operators have wilfully or otherwise failed to furnish us with any valuable information in the matter, we are of the opinion that the present differential is unfair and should be reduced. Therefore, We recommend that the miners of both thin and thick vein, by strengthening their organization, place themselves in position to enforce any change in the differential that in their judgment will be necessary to protect their interest. Motion, that the report be accepted as read and that we take action on same. Carried unanimously. Resolution committee was appointed as follows: John Pat- 730 United Mine Workers of America terson, Thomas Sheehan, James Watchorn, Thomas West, and John Sykes. Motion, that resolution committee retire and go to work, and that we adjourn. Convention adjourned. Wm. Dodds, Secretary-Treasurer. July 21, 1899. Convention came to order at 10:30 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair. Motion, that we now hear the report of resolution com- mittee. Carried. Delegate Little wished to be recorded as voting against the motion. Secretary Sheehan, of resolution committee, read out the following report: First — Resolved, That we concur in the Executive Board’s report. Committee concurs unanimously. Second — Resolved, That seeing the demoralized condition of the district, that the differential question be left to our next interstate convention, and that they do all in their power to wipe it out entirely or make it 6 6-10. Majority of committee concurs. Sykes non-concurs. Third — Whereas, We, the miners of the Pittsburg District, know that the differential is too great, and is detrimental to the interests of all miners ; therefore be it Resolved, That it be reduced to 6 6-10 cents per ton. Majority of committee non-concurs. Sykes concurs. Fourth — Resolved, That the dead-work scale be hung up at every pit mouth in the district, and that the miners live up to the same, and, if the operators refuse to do so, that the miners quit work till the company complies with it. Committee concurs unanimously. A motion to adopt the majority report of the committee was carried. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention came to order at 1 :30 p. m., with President Dolan in the chair. Pittsburg Adjourned Convention 731 The members of the Executive Board gave a verbal report and explanation on the report they had made to this conven- tion on the differential proceedings! Delegates Sykes, Thomas, McLinden, Walker, Little, Don- nelly and Kramer wished to be recorded as against the motion. Carried. Convention adjourned. July 22, 1899. Convention came to order at 10 a. m., with President Dolan in the chair. Sixth resolution: — Resolved, That this convention recom- mend that John Hepner be sent into this district as an or- ganizer to get the district in shape for its next demand. (Signed) John Patterson, Thomas West. Adopted as read. The Secretary-Treasurer read the list of local unions that had paid the levies put oh at previous conventions, so that those who had not paid the same would know of their delin- quency, also a list of local unions that had sent in their dona- tions to be used in the O’Neill injunction case at Fayette City, Pennsylvania. It was agreed by the delegates that the minutes of this convention had to be printed and sent out. Motion that we adjourn sine die. Carried unanimously. Convention adjourned. Wm. Dodds, Secretary-Treasurer. Windber, Pa., July 21, 1899. Whether through instinct, intuition or a morbid desire to visit this noted field again, deponent sayeth not, but for some reason Secretary Gilbert and I land once more in this famous resort for refugees of all trades, seeking a remote corner where the cares of unionism are unknown and where the wily captives of manhood are allowed to hold full sway. Windber as a coal-producing center, perhaps, outranks any other point belonging to the Berwind-White Coal Company. Its facilities for the disposition of the mule in animal form are remarkable, to say the least. Its electrifying methods of manipulating power can not be questioned with any degree of success, and that it is growing in population of that class of men (color excepted) that gave Abraham Lincoln so much trouble and 732 United Mine Workers of America cost the country so many lives in former years no one can deny. But coal miners are not the only willing victims here. Carpenters, bricklayers, stone masons, plasterers, and a host of other serfs are also numbered with the throng, and so far as the scale of wages are concerned of their various trades are even worse. It is a consolation, however, to know that trades unionism means a solidarity of eiforts to remove these obstacles, and with concerted action on the part of all and the manifest desire of the United Mine Workers not to permit one coal company to take undue advantage of another without a vigorous protest, the scene will soon be changed or the reason why made clear to the parties directly interested. Be- fore leaving Winber we managed to force our timid form upon a few miners and read to them a portion of the following circular : JOINT AGREEMENT DISTRICT No. 2. “It is hereby understood and agreed by and between the officers representing the Central Pennsylvania mining district, being designated as District No. 2, and the operators of the Beech Creek region, that in consideration of the said opera- tors paying on the 1st of August, 1899, and thereafter, five- ninths (5-9) for loading after machines of the present pick- mining price, that is, fifty (50) cents per gross ton for pick- mining and twenty-seven and one-half ( 271 / 2 ) cents per gross ton for loading after machines. “This basis of prices, it is hereby agreed on the part of the officers of the said Central Pennsylvania Mining District No. 2, shall continue for one year from the 1st day of August, 1899, and be binding upon the miners and operators of the Beech Creek region when signed by the operators and ratified by the several bank committees located at each of the mines involved in this agreement, and no operator shall be bound to pay this price unless this agreement' is accepted and ratified by the bank committees at each mine. “It being further understood that if all the machine opera- tors in said region do not consent to this agreement by the 1st of August, 1899, as to the remainder of the machine op- erators who continue and carry out the terms implied herein, this contract shall in that event not extend longer than April Just a Woman of Witt, District 12 733 1, 1900, but if signed on or before the 1st day of August next, then to continue one year as stated above. “William B, Wilson. '“Bernard Rice. “Richard Gilbert. “The Bloomington Mining Co., by Rembrant Peale, Genl. Mgr. “Somerville & Buchanan. “Pardee Collieries, per W. C. L. “Patton Coal Co., per Jas. Kerr, President. “Duncan & Spangler. “Clearfield, Pa., July 3, 1899.” JUST A WOMAN OF WITT. Witt, Illinois, August 1, 1899. I wish to write a letter of encouragement to the United Mine Workers of America. Brothers, stand firm and true. We once were in bondage. What I mean by bondage is that we were compelled to buy our bread and butter at the com- pany store. If you didn’t you had to get away from here. Well,. brothers, the chains of bondage are breaking; the shack- les have rusted; a good structure cannot be torn down so completely that it can not he rebuilt. Look at Hillsboro, Illi- nois. They were out of line there for over a year, and they saw that the union was the foundation of mankind. They are in line now, and working every day. But here we are at Witt. We have been out since April 1st. It’s very little encourage- ment we get, but I guess we don’t need any. There are only a few of us, but we are all here. I don’t know what will be the outcome. They have got their boilers in and engine in hoisting order, and as soon as the engine room is completed and the coal switch laid, I don’t see what is to hinder them from paying the scale. I remain respectfully yours, Mannie Campbell. MONTGOMERY, W. VA., CONVENTION. On August 8, 1899, a convention was held at Montgomery, West Virginia, of organized and unorganized miners. Thirty- seven mines were represented with a delegation of nearly fifty miners from the Kanawha and New River coal fields. The convention was called to order by Joseph M. Smith, president of District No.’ 17, with Vice-President P. J. Brogan and Secretary S. C. Harless in their respective positions. 734 United Mine Workers of America National organizers Thomas Farry, George Scott and Chris Evans attended the meeting and Henry Stephenson was pres- ent as a member of the National Executive Board. Resolutions were introduced, discussed and adopted asking for an advance of five cents per ton on the then mining rates being paid; condemning the brutal assault and abuse by Superintendent John Laing and his confederates that inflicted bodily injury on organizer Scott; extending thanks to the national officers of the United Mine Workers of America for their aid and support ; and an urgent demand to secure equal prices for mining coal, as were being paid in other competitive fields. The delegates were advised to call meetings on returning home and present the just claims agreed upon to the operators of the respective mines located in the New River and Kanawha districts. J. M. Smith, President. S. C. Harless, Secretary. IOWA ANNUAL CONVENTION, AUGUST 15, 1899. Meeting called to order with Acting President John F. Ream in the chair. The following committees were appointed : Credentials — M. F. Maher, Wm. Tippett, R. Good ; Rules and Order of Busi- ness — H. G. Street, Thos. Adamson, John White; Resolutions — J. J. Byrnes, A. D. Burke, Frank Woodward; Press — Henrj^ Lafferty, James Kellett, Edwin Perry. Meeting adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Re-convened at 1 p. m. by President Ream, with J. Bar- rows secretary pro tern. It being the opinion of the chair that an assistant secre- tary was needed, G. A. Davis was elected to the place. The report of the committee on credentials and the report of the committee on rules and order of business were accepted as read. An auditing committee was elected as follows: James White, Hugh Reid, John Braniff. Iowa Annual Convention, 1899 735 Report of secretary and treasurer was read, approved and turned over to auditing committee for investigation. President Ream gave report of fiis work in the state, and J. P. Reese gave a report of his work in southern field, also in Iowa. A committee of five members was appointed on the consti- tutional committee as follows: William James, James Fisher, Elmer Myers, William Cowan, Joe Sharp. John Mitchell, National President, arrived and was intro- duced to convention and greeted with great applause. Several amendments to the constitution were made and substitutes considered during the morning session until the convention adjourned. MORNING SESSION, AUGUST 16, 1899. After the opening of the meeting the rules were suspended and the national president addressed the convention. At the close of his address the president was given a hearty vote of thanks by all delegates present. Resolutions were adopted as follows: Resolved, By the United Mine Workers of America, in convention assembled. That we deem the check-off system sound and feasible and respectfully urge our state officers to take aggressive action to secure this system for those camps that do not have the advantage of having their dues checked off. Whereas, We have learned that the Grocers’ Association of Iowa is making strenuous efforts to have a law enacted which will leave all earnings of working men above $8.00 per month liable to garnishee and execution ; and whereas we be- lieve that such a law* would work great hardship and entail suffering upon the working class : Therefore, be it resolved. That we, the miners of District No. 13, in convention assembled, do protest against such legis- lation, and that we ask the legislative committee of the Ameri- can Federation of Labor to use their influence to prevent such a law becoming a statute. Whereas, It has been the custom to compel miners before starting to work to sign contracts waiving their rights guaran- teed by the gross weight bill, therefore be it Resolved, by the miners of the Thirteenth District, in con- vention assembled. That they will sign no contract in the 736 United Mine Workers of America future which will require the waiving of any right guaranteed by law. Be it Resolved, That it is the sense of this convention that, whereas, there has been an injustice practiced upon the col- ored miners of this state by being refused work in some of the mining camps of said state, we do hereby condemn the above practice and extend the hand of fellowship to all union colored miners of the State of Iowa, and that the same privilege in regard to obtaining work be accorded all creeds, colors and nationalities alike. Resolved, That the delegates of the United Mine Workers of America of the State of Iowa unanimously indorse the name of J. P. Reese of Albia, Iowa, our past State Vice-President, as candidate at the next national convention at Indianapolis in January, 1900, for National Vice-President. Whereas, Many of the members of District No. 13, United Mine Workers of America, have not had a very good chance to subscribe for the Mine Workers Journal, and, whereas, we believe our Journal should be read by all our miners; there- fore, be it Resolved, That when the delegates return to their homes they shall have their locals elect a Journal agent and send his name to President Mitchell, who will give him a commission, and we pledge ourselves to do all in our power to have all our members read our official organ. Resolved, That it be the sense of this convention that a bill should be drawn up and brought before our next legislature providing for better ventilation of all the mines, the same to also provide that the escape shaft shall not be more than 880 yards from the face of workings. Resolved, That District No. 13, United Mine Workers of America, affiliate with the State Federation of Labor of the State of Iowa, and the incoming officers be instructed to do so as soon as possible. Moved, That the officers present to Des Moines operators or other operators in the state the scale of prices. That we extend our sympathy to our brothers in the South- west in their gallant fight against political bosses and corpo- rate greed to maintain the dignity of the United Mine Work- ers of America. Adopted. Legislation was recommended on house rent: Examina- tions to be held for superintendents, mine foremen, and hoist- Iowa Annual Convention, 1899 737 ing engineers: on operators giving due notice to miners be- fore reducing wages where no scale exists. On motion, the preamble of the constitution was adopted, and the convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order at 1 p. m., with Vice-President Reese in the chair. Moved and seconded that the Frazier delegate go at once to Frazier and take one hundred and fifty dollars ($150.00) or send same ; to prevent a break in our ranks at that place. Carried. Reading of the constitution was continued and after sev- eral amendments were rnade the constitution as amended was adopted. REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE. Oskaloosa, Iowa, August 16, 1899. Greeting: — We, your Auditing Committee, have carefully examined the books of our Secretary-Treasurer and have found them in every instance correct, and submit the follow- ing statements for your approval : Received for per capita tax, $2,465.78; Drafts from na- tional office, $150.00 ; Balance from last term, $53.80 ; Total, $2,669.58. Total expenditures, $1,724.61 ; balance in treasury, $944.97. President’s financial account was examined and found correct and we submit the same for your approval : •Total amount received, $399.70; total amount expended, $399.39 ; leaving a balance in hand of President of 31 cents. James White, John Braniff, Hugh Reid, Auditing Committee. Relief Fund — Total amount received for relief, $1,638.56; Expenditures, $1,546.00; Balance in treasury, $92.56. Recapitulation — Receipts from all sources, $4,307.93 ; Ex- penditures, $3,270.61; Balance in treasury, $1,037.32. Respectfully submitted, James White, Chairman, John Braniff, Secretary, Hugh Reid. 738 United Mine Workers of America Moved to accept the Auditing Committee’s report and place on file. Carried. Moved that the President and Secretary have constitution printed, and that the Secretary forward a copy of the proceed- ings of this convention to each delegate at his local, each local to have one copy also. Carried. Nominations in order for place of holding next annual convention. Des Moines, Ottumwa, Oskaloosa, Albia, Centerville, Boone, Knoxville. Des Moines receiving the largest number of votes was de- clared to be the meeting place for our next annual convention. It was afterward declared a unanimous choice. Time for adjournment having arrived, rules were sus- pended and decided to continue in session until 6 o’clock. Officers elected — President, John F. Ream; Vice-President, Joseph Sharp; Secretary-Treasurer, John White; Board Mem- ber, District No. 1, David Sexton; District No. 2, Edwin Perry; District No. 3, L. P. Joyce; District No. 4, Thomas Adamson; Auditors, H. G. Street and John Barrows. It was moved that all officers be declared elected unani- mously. Carried. All the officers were then installed by National President John Mitchell. A vote of thanks was tendered to the outgoing officers. Moved and seconded that we donate one dollar to janitor for cleaning of the room. Carried. It was moved that the members of this convention extend their sympathy to Brother Brennan in his sickness ; and that we adjourn sine die. Motion carried. John F. Ream, President. John Barrows, Secy. Pro Tern. Geo. a. Davis, Asst. Secretarj\ D. H. Sullivan and the Screen Law 739 D. H. SULLIVAN. On August 19, 1899, the miners of Guernsey County, Ohio, held a mass meeting for the purpose of trying to remove some of the grievances connected with coal mining in that county, among which were the company store system and the coal screens in use. In his explanation of several other evil practices, vice- president Sullivan said: President Haskins, T. L. Lewis and myself have all made arrangements to test the screen law. Attorneys Daniel J. Ryan of Columbus, and William T. Lewis have been employed to represent the interests of our miners. An effort will be made to have the case tried in the Supreme Court without recourse to the lower courts. This can only be done by mutual agreement between the miners’ officials and operators. The time of Vice-President Sullivan seems to have been fully occupied in trying to adjust the numerous complaints made by the miners throughout the state, asking his aid at times when the danger line had been forced upon them. Speaking of the company store is a reminder of the system practiced in the anthracite coal field of Pennsylvania in the year 1899, when the following schedule was published showing the difference in the price of provisions sold to the miners in the Scranton region. The following are the prices charged in the pluck-me at Marshwood and cash stores at Scranton : Pluck -Me Prices Cash Store Prices Flour, per barrel $7.00 $4.20 Ham, per pound _ __ .19 .12 Bacon, per pound .19 .12 Tobacco, per pound .50 .34 Sugar, 12 pounds 1.00 1.00- Squibs, per box _ .30 .10 And other things in proportion. The above is a fair sample of what the company store means at the coal mines, a system more frequently called “pluck-me’s,” when the necessities of life are purchased through the compulsory means employed by coal mining com- panies the country over. W. C. SCOTT, NATIONAL ORGANIZER, 1897-1898. EDITOR JOURNAL, 1899-1900. Resignation of Vice-President Davis 741 RESOLUTIONS OF RESPECT. Indianapolis, Indiana, August 21, 1899. Whereas, Brother Thomas W. Davis has resigned his office as National Vice-President of our organization to enter new fields of labor ; and Whereas, During his connection with our organization he has been a most faithful and efficient worker and because of his earnest efforts, so ably prosecuted, he has been instru- mental, to a great extent, in consummating agreements that will be of lasting benefit to us as a craft and to our families ; therefore be it Resolved, That in the severance of his official connection with our organization we appreciate the loss of a most valua- ble counsellor, honest and tireless worker, a loyal and genial friend ; and while we regret that he has gone from among us we take pleasure in recommending him as a man who pos- sesses both honor and ability and express our belief that these virtues so firmly rooted in his nature by years of practice will guide his actions in any and under all circumstances in future life and that we earnestly wish for him the portion of life’s sunshine that his ability and honor so fully merits ; further Resolved, That these resolutions be printed in the United Mine Workers Journal and that a copy be engrossed and pre- sented to Brother Davis. By order of the Executive Board. John Mitchell, President. W. C. Pearce, Secretary-Treasurer. W. C. Scott, Editor Journal. TO MINERS AND MINE LABORERS. August, 1899. Discipline is absolutely necessary for the permanent suc- cess of any undertaking. How much of this element have we in our organization? , What are you doing to strengthen the organization? If nothing, why? This applies to you. At the end of a week have you ever taken time to consider how much you have done to advance the trades union move- ment during the week ? How often do you depend on the other fellow if you do not get all you expect? The local union meeting place is the industrial school room. Neglect it and the bulwark (Intelligence) of the organization will vanish. The union label is a guarantee that the article bearing it was made by those who believe the laboring people have rights 742 United Mine Workers of America that should and must be respected. Do you encourage them in that belief by purchasing none other than union labeled goods? T. L, Lewis. A SQUIB FROM REESE. August, 1899. I wish to announce that I will not be a candidate for any office in District No. 13, at the coming convention on August 15, 1899, and thank the boys very much for the support they offer me. Brother Ream is the right man in the right place, and should be re-elected. Brother Grant Street of Mystic, is a candidate for secretary-treasurer, and in my judgment would make a good man for the place. The present strike in the Southwest makes it necessary for me to remain where I am. The Big Four will soon be in a bottle and I wish to be there and help put in the cork. The Big Four is showing their weakness every day. I remain truly yours, JOHN P. Reese. JOINT AGREEMENT AT WITT, ILLINOIS This agreement, made and entered into this 23rd day of August, 1899, between the Montgomery Coal Company and the United Mine Workers, witnesseth: The Montgomery Coal Company hereby agrees to recognize the United Mine Workers and agrees to pay the scale as pro- vided for in the several agreements made for the year ending March 31, 1900, and covering the district where the mine of the first party is located. Also for outside labor as follows : Dumpers, $1.75; dumpers’ helpers, $1.50; firemen, $1.75; blacksmiths, $2.00; blacksmiths’ helpers, $1.75; head car trim- mer, $1.75 ; head car trimmers’ helper, $1.50 ; yard men, $1.50 ; all other unskilled labor, $1.50. The following to be paid for narrow work : Widtli, feet Price, per yard 6 $1.6834 s 1.5334 10 1.38 12 1.23 All entries over 12 feet and up to 18 feet, inclusive, shall decrease at the rate of 7% cents per foot. That no miner or other person shall shoot any coal by the day and all miners shall shoot and load their own coal. That all cross-cuts shall be paid the same yardage as entry work, and there shall be a track put in cross-cuts when de- Joint Agreement at Witt, Illinois 743 sired by the person doing the same. That a miner shall re- ceive 25 cents for every cross-bar he puts up. That all dead work shall be paid, for per hour as provided in the Pittsburg agreement. That the price of powder shall be $1.75 per keg and 45 cents per gallon for oil. The company agrees to pay their employes semi-monthly, viz : The first and fifteenth of each month, and when pay day falls on Sunday the employes will be paid the preceding Satur- day or the following Monday, the company to hold only fifteen days’ pay back at any time. The company will take back in its employ all the men who were in the employ on the 31st of March, 1899. And it is agreed that the company shall be allowed to take back into its employ all day men on top who were in its em- ploy on March 31st, provided said day men will consent to join the local union and- the said Miners’ .Union agrees to admit said employes on proper application. Any miner or other employe absenting himself from his regular employment for two days in succession without suffi- cient cause shall be liable to discharge. The miners shall load their coal free from rock, sulphur and other foreign matter as far as possible. Three successive violations of this rule will render the party liable to discharge. The work in the mine shall be done according to the direc- tions given by the pit boss and under his immediate supervi- sion and control. The pit committee shall be composed of men actually em- ployed in the mine. The Montgomery Coal Co., Per G. W. Parsley, Supt. John M. Hunter, State President, United Mine Workers of America. W. R. Russell, Vice-President. W. D. Ryan, Secretary. LABOR DAY NOTES. ‘ September 14, 1899. The day was generally observed. Cambridge, Ohio, held their Labor Day exercises on Satur- day in order to attend Zanesville on Monday, and report the greatest celebration in her history. President Mitchell repo.rts a wonderful crowd at Nelson- ville, Ohio, where he and Board Member Fairley orated on Labor Day. 744 United Mine Workers of America Mecca, Indiana, simply stormed the fort and captured all within, then marched to Hixon’s Grove and, after a feast of chicken and other delicacies, passed the day in speechmaking, dancing, racing and general sports. Reports indicate that the ice of indifference was somewhat loosened by the burning eloquence of the speakers at various points in West Virginia and that much good will result from Labor Day, 1899. The Buckeye State was not behind in her demonstration. Meetings were held in nearly all the mining centers, with a larger attendance than ever before. Secretary Pearce reports quite a successful demonstration at Saginaw, the heart of the Michigan mining field. The cele- bration was held under the auspices of the Central Labor Union, with which the Saginaw miners are affiliated. Our correspondent, Louis Goaziou, reports that the day was not properly observed in the Pittsburg District of Pennsyl- vania. Grand celebrations were held in the mining districts of Missouri and Kansas, Tennessee and Kentucky, and in the anthracite districts of Pennsylvania, while the Central district of the above State also “jined.” Illinois maintained her established enviable reputation for trades union activity by having an appropriate celebration in almost every town and hamlet within the State. Thousands were in attendance and their enthusiastic shouts echoed and re-echoed throughout the shady parks within her borders. The editor of this paper spent Labor Day in Alabama and is pleased to report that the miners of that district are enjoy- ing better times than ever before in their history as a district. Great activity in the iron industry is manifest upon all hands and a regular boom is being experienced in Pratt City, Ensley and other suburbs of Birmingham. We addressed the Pratt miners in the morning and were followed by State Senator Cunningham of Alabama, who delivered one of the most thoughtful and eloquent speeches it has ever been our pleasure to listen to. President John Mitchell attended the Virden anniversary, October 12, 1899, in commemoration of the event in which National Auditors’ Report, 1899 745 seven union miners at Virden, Illinois, were killed fighting for freedom on that blood-stained battlefield, October 12, 1898. I NATIONAL AUDITORS’ REPORT. Indianapolis, Indiana, October 23, 1899. Third quarterly report of Auditing Committee from July 1 to September 30, 1899 : We, your auditors, after a careful investigation of the books of Secretary-Treasurer W. C. Pearce, respectfully sub- mit the following report : Receipts — Balance on hand June 30, 1899, $26,539.37 ; by tax three months, $18,332.69 ; by supplies, $2,199.02 ; by Jour- nal, $1,434.98 ; by miscellaneous, $109.97 ; total receipts, $48,616.03. Expenditures — To officers’ salaries and expenses, $11,471.- 28; to supplies, $2,606.30; to office expenses, rent, etc., $294.58; to telegrams, postage and express charges, $783.82; to miscellaneous and donations to districts, $2,035.73 ; total expenses, $17,191.71. Total receipts, $48,616,03 ; total expenses, $17,191.71 ; Balance on hand October 1, 1899, $31,424.32. We also wish to state for the benefit of the members of our organization that we, your auditors, have carefully exam- ined the ledger with the day book and find that the locals have received credit for all moneys sent to our National Sec- retary-Treasurer, and that the books have been systematically and accurately kept ; we also desire on behalf of the organiza- tion, to thank Brother Pearce and his able assistants for their efficient work in the office. We also take great pleasure in stating to the members of our organization that in the last three months there have been 136 new locals organized, mak- ing a grand total for the year of 308 new locals, and that the organization has made great progress. We can now say with pride that the United Mine Workers of America is the largest labor organization in the United States, numbering almost 85,000. We attribute this in a great measure to the never- tiring efforts, the earnestness and ability of our National President John Mitchell. We also wish to give credit to the National Board and organizers for the zeal and courage which they have displayed in carrying the banner of our organization and planting it in fields heretofore unknown, and we further predict that if the same aggressive policy' be continued the re- mainder of the year we shall be able to secure a better portion of the wealth we produce, which is due us, because of the marked improvements in business and trade. Samuel Pascoe, John J. Mossop, Auditors. 746 United Mine Workers of America Indianapolis, Indiana, October 23, 1899. To Whom It May Concern: This is to certify that the United Mine Workers of America • had on deposit to their credit in this bank on October 1, 1899, the sum of thirty-one thousand, four hundred and twenty-four dollars and thirty-two cents ($31,424.32). Capital National Bank, By M. B. Wilson, President. NELSONVILLE RESOLUTIONS. Nelsonville, Ohio, November 28, 1899. The following resolutions were passed by Local Union No. 421: Whereas, The miners of this Local by investigation, have found that the miners of Brush Fork Branch and vicinity are grossly violating the agreement; and Whereas, We are made a victim of circumstances and have conceded to our operator the same conditions. Resolved, That it is the sense of this Local that the words “eight hours shall constitute a days’ work” refers to all mine workers, whether they be machine men, or loaders, or day hands. Resolved, That we appeal to our State and Sub-district Officers to enforce the eight-hour workday in this, the great Hocking Coal Field, as we do not believe it is possible, as or- ganized miners, to break the joint agreement and be union men at the same time. Wm. Riddell, Secretary. CONVENTION PROCEEDINGS, DISTRICT No. 2. Clearfield, Pa., November 29, 1899. Convention called to order at 10:40 a. m., with President Wilson in the chair, who proceeded at once to appoint the fol- lowing committees: Committee on Credentials — Currie, M. Yra, Williams, Purcell; Defense Fund — Wilson, Long, Cleves, McTaggart, McKinney; Resolutions — Dawson, Williams, Gil- day, Crawford, Garland ; Auditing Committee for Strike Fund — Williams, Prescott, Eckelberger. Report of Committee on Credentials was then received, committee stating that upon examination of credentials they found that all present were entitled to a seat and voice in the convention. District 2 Convention, November, 1899 747 A motion was made and carried that the report of Com- mittee on Credentials be received and committee retained. Motion made and carried that wp adjourn until afternoon to give the committees time to report. Convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Wilson at 1.25 p.m. Committee on Credentials again reported, stating that delegates had arrived since their previous report was made and that they had examined the credentials and found them entitled to voice and seat in convention. Report of Committee accepted. The Committee on Defense Fund presented the following: We, your Committee on Defense Fund, beg leave to submit to the convention that we favor a defense fund; but we further think that the question of a defense fund should be left over to our national convention, knowing that it has been agitated throughout the states where the United Mine Workers of America organization is in power. The resolution was adopted as read. The Auditing Committee reported that they had examined books and receipts of strike fund and found them correct in every detail. Report accepted. A recess was taken. The Committee on Resolutions being ready to report, the convention was called to order and the following resolutions presented : Whereas, It has been alleged that some operators who signed the agreement on July 3, 1899, have failed to abide by the agreement entered into^ and Whereas, No pick operators and very few machine opera- tors have signed any agreement, and Whereas, We are under no obligation to continue working at present rates for such operators as failed to sign our agree- ment. or having signed the agreement have failed to live up to it, now therefore be it Resolved, That we favor an advance in wages of 10 cents per ton for pick mining and 121/2 cents per ton for machine loading, and 20 per cent for all labor, to take effect January 748 United Mine Workers of America 1, 1900, and to the end that the whole question may be prop-^ erly discussed by all parties interested and no operator who has lived up to the agreement may be unjustly injured, we hereby call a joint convention of operators and miners of the entire district to meet in Clearfield, Tuesday, December 12, 1899, at 11 a. m., to consider the whole question. Motion made and carried that the resolution be accepted. Also that we demand the whole of central Pennsylvania to restrict their labor to eight hours per day. Motion made and carried that we adjourn to meet Thurs- day morning. Convention adjourned. NOVEMBER 30, 1899. Convention called to order by President Wilson at 9 a. m. The Committee on Resolutions was again called upon to report. Be it resolved. That we recommend more organizers be put into the field for the purpose of getting men into line ; that the initiation for the organization shall be not less than $1, one- half to go to strikers and the other half to go toward organi- zation purposes ; also that a levy of 25 cents each pay be col- lected from all miners, organized and unorganized, to go into effect immediately. Be it resolved. That we discountenance the loading of Erie cars. That we will use all our energies to support the Tioga men in their struggle. Motion made and carried that the resolutions be adopted as read. The convention adjourned. AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order at 1 :20 p. m. by President Wilson. Committee on Resolutions was called on to proceed with its report. Resolutions adopted : Resolved, That we recommend all local unions to join the sub-district or the check-weigh association. Indian Territory Convention 749 That our sub-district officers visit the mines where they are loading by the car and try and persuade them to quit the same. ' , That all officers and members have full privilege to dis- cuss political questions, provided that officers under pay do not in any manner neglect their duties to the organization. That we call the attention of the national convention to the question of abolishing the company store. That the convention tender a vote of thanks to the Com- missioners of Clearfield county for the use of the arbitration room for our convention, and that a collection be taken up for the janitor, to compensate him for the extra work incurred during our session. That the next convention shall be called for organized and unorganized miners and they shall pay at least one month’s per capita for representation. That as soon as Brother Harris shall present an itemized account of the money due him from the district to the secre- tary-treasurer that the bill shall be paid when district is in condition to do so. The convention then adjourned. (Signed) Richard Gilbert, Secretary-Treasurer, District No. 2. INDIAN TERRITORY PROCEEDINGS. Hartshorne, I. T., December 9, 1899. Meeting called to order at 11 a. m. by John Mordue, tem- porary president; J. H. Morgan, temporary secretary. Committeemen entitled to seats: John McConville, Wni. Watzke, John Harris, Chas. Blair, Clarence Eddy, Alderson; S. J. Johnson, T. W. Johnson, Harry Skaws, Henry Terrell, John Mordue, Carbon; P. E. Baldwin, J. H. Morgan, Tom Combs, E. E. Thompson, and H. Caller, Cherry Vale; H. Johnson and T. J. Williams, Dow ; Lewis Savio, Geo. Jackson, Aleck Nooney, Frank Savio and I. E. Crowder, Hartshorne. First order of business to elect a president and secretary. John Mordue was elected president; Frank Savio, secretary. Motion made that the committee from Local Unions Nos. 466, 490, 498, form a sub-;district convention. Carried. Convention adjourned. 750 United Mine Workers of America AFTERNOON SESSION. Convention called to order by President Mordue at 1.30 • p. m. Order of business. Every delegate be allowed to vote and said vote to be by ballot. Motion to adopt carried. S. J. Johnson was elected a delegate to the national con- vention to represent Sub-district No. 2. Moved that we instruct the delegate to vote for a national' defense fund and to advocate it at convention; also bring be- fore the delegates at said convention the condition of affairs in this district. That the delegates instruct their locals to draw up instruc- tions for the delegate and forward said instructions to the secretary. That the secretary send the proceedings of this convention to be published in The United Mine Workers Journal. That we indorse the national and district officers’ action and tender them our sincere thanks. Moved that we condemn the action of Judge Williams in the John P. Reese case as being unconstitutional and unjust. Also condemn Judges Rogers and Clayton for the action they have taken against the United Mine Workers of America and the present system of a judge trial. Moved that the convention adjourn. Frank Savio, Secretary. ANTHRACITE WAGE AGREEMENT, DECEMBER 11, 1899. Schedule of prices and wages agreed upon by the manager and superintendent of the Susquehanna Coal Company and committee of employees. Coal and Coal Measurements. Section 1. Size of car (same as before) with six inches of topping at the breaker making a total of ninety cubic feet of coal to the Nanticoke car and ninety-six cubic feet to the Glen Lyon car. Price of car $1.20 and $1.02. Check Docking Boss be allowed and to be paid by the workmen. A gauge to be erected to determine the height of car. The Check Docking Anthracite Wage Agreement, 1899 751 Boss shall have the power to shop all cars that are out of shape and also agreed that the company will put a cross-bar on the cars, if they after investigation with a committee of employees, deem it advisable. 500 pounds rock or slate to be allowed in car without the miner being stopped, and miner to be stopped one day for each 100 pounds over the 500. Plugs. Sec. 2. Agreed to pay ten cents a car extra after a plug is driven thirty feet and whenever the company can to their and miners advantage they will put in a road, and where the conditions are such that it is impossible to make a day’s wages the company is willing to make a fair allowance for the same. Gangways. Sec. 3. Twelve to fourteen feet wide, $2.54 per yard ; over fourteen to eighteen feet, $1.97 per yard; breasts under twenty-four feet but over eighteen, $1.00 per yard. Cross Headings. Sec. 4. Cross headings shall be driven between chute breasts. Cross headings, $1.97 per yard. Rock Measurements. Section 1. Top and bottom rock in Red Ash ten cents per lineal yard for every inch in thickness (sand rock excepted), all other veins seven and one-half cents per lineal yard for every inch in thickness (sand rock excepted). Sec. 2. Boney to be paid for according to the judgment of the bosses. Rock Cleaning and Unloading. ■ Section 1. Cleaning gob, thirty-five cents per lineal yard, where extra heavy will be paid accordingly; if not satisfac- tory the company will clean it. Sec. 2. Unloading rock, twenty-five cents per car, and if not satisfactory to the miner, company hands will unload it. Sec. 3. Where directed to load rock in cars miner to be paid twenty-five cents for each and every car. Timber Props and Chutes Section 1. Propping and lagging and extra propping, forty-four cents per prop. Sec. 2. Gangway timbers, $2.54 per set; branch timber, where collar is fourteen feet long, $5.08 ; breast timber, $1.81 per set; branch timber in breast fourteen feet long, $3.62 per set; fiats, $1.32. Cogging to be judged as to its value. 752 United Mine Workers of America Sec. 3. Platforms to be built by company hands, chutes twenty-five cents per length of sheet iron. Miscellaneous Section. 1. Laying roads outside of miners’ place, twenty- five cents per yard. Where company can get tracklayers to lay road they will do so. Sec. 2. The miner will keep his road in repair from the last plug in. Sec. 3. Company to contract with miner for cleaning caves or pay a day’s wages for the same. Sec. 4. Not more than one miner shall be compelled to work in the same place on the same shift. Sec. 5. Bailing water to be done by company hands. Sec. 6. That work heretofore known as consideration work be paid by contract or day’s wages. Fractional part of all measurements to be paid for. Approved, SUSQUEHANNA COAL COMPANY, Per John H. Tonkin, Superintendent. Approved, Henry M. Williams, John Price, Cornelius J. Gallagher, T. D. Nichols, Frank Miller, Michael Wyzzernig, Approved, Morris Williams, Manager. SUSQUEHANNA COAL COMPANY Scale of wages adopted December 11, 1899: Fire Boss $2.47 and .$2.liG Driver Boss 1.02 Company Miner 2.23 Company jMiner’s Laborer 1.70 Track Layer 2.23 Track Layer’s Helper 1.75 Sliaft Repairman 2.23 Shaft Repairman’s Helper 1.70 Timberman , 2.23 Timberraan’s Helper 1.70 Carpenter or Doormaker 2.00 Carpenter or Doormaker ’s Helper 1.70 Brattice man 2.00 Anthracite Wage Agreement, 1899 753 Bratticeman’s Helper 1.54 Head runner 1.75 Runner + 1.60 Runner and Driver 1.54 Head Footman of Shaft (Oil Clothes) 1.80 Head Footman of Shaft, Helper 1.70 Headman, Inside Shaft 1.75 Headman’s Helper, Inside Shaft 1.70 Head Footman of Slope 1.70 Head Footman of Slope, Helper 1.65 Headman of Slope 1.70 Plane Runner 1.70 Footman of Plane 1.60 Bellman 1.25 Single Mule Driver 1.25 Single Mule Driver at foot of shaft 1.50 Two Mule Driver 1.45 Three Mule Driver 1.65 Door Boy .80 Mason 1.75 Mason’s Helper : 1.60 Road and Slope Cleaners 1.60 Couplers and Rat Catchers 1.00 Pump Runner 1.54 and $1.80 Stableman 1.54 Stableman’s Helper 1.45 Pipeman 1.75 Walter Bailer 1.54 and $1.60 Unloading Rock 1.45 and $1.54 Slate Pickers .50 and up. Shaft Headman (Outside) 1.60 Fireman 1.70 All the above are supposed to be first-class men and boys. Aged and disabled men for attending doors will be paid from $1.00 to $1.10 per day. Inexperienced, aged and disabled men for cleaning roads, gob and such other common work, such as they can do, to be paid according to their worth, from $1.25 to $1.50 per day. ALABAMA Birmingham, Ala., December 11, 1899. Second annual convention of District 20, United Mine Workers of America, called to order at 10 a. m., with Presi- dent George W. Young in the chair and executive board pres- ent. After a short address by President Young and National Board Member Fairley, a committee on credentials was ap- pointed, and convention adjourned. Convention called to order at 1 :30 p. m. The committee on credentials reported the following dele- gates entitled to seats: Wm. Clark, J. K. Smith, Jake Lillick, 754 United Mine Workers of America Geo. Cuffner, Jas. Lannahan, John Lemont, Thos. S. Dickey, John Bla;ck, J. S. Thompson, D. H. Wilson, P. R. Murray, N. S. Pringle, G. T. Johns, J. R. Kinnamer, Thos. B. Slusser, A. H. Gentry, G. B. Reynolds, Frank Hillman, F. A. Slack, R. B. Carroll, Joe Hallier, S. E. Banks, C. S. Smith, A. Ellis, S. S. Holmes, R. Crayton, W. B. Montgomery, I. P. Hill, F. W. Lennon, Frank Cogler, W. R. Thomas, S. D. Richards, J. G. Brown, S. B. Harris, Thos. English, M. L. Turner, Wm. Gibbs, Alf. Parks, Brother Hicks, George Basbey, Frank Steele, D. C. Barnes, D. M. Watts, J. D. Rivers, R. V. Locke, Chas. Fletcher, W. T. Weaver, J. S. Ogwin, Frank Fournier, R. Hooper, Ed. Flinn, Wm. Bynom, Geo. Barbour, C. W. Cain, S. L. Brooks, Geo. Smitherman, Sandy Williams, R. D. Os- well, J. C. Fowler, H. V. Hines. John Lemont, Chairman. R. Hooper, Secretary. J. R. Kinnamer, J. K. Smith, P. R. Murray, Committee. The report of the credential committee was received. Committee on constitution and by-laws and committee on resolutions were then appointed. Motion that the election of officers be the next order of business. Carried. Convention adjourned. SECOND DAY — TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12. Convention called to order at 9 :15 a. m., with W. R. Fair- ley in the chair. Geo. W. Young was declared elected President; Vice- President, S. L. Brooks; Secretary-Treasurer, J. L. Clemo. On motion convention adjourned. Convention called to order at 1 :30 p. m., W. R. Fairley in the chair. For executive board : W. J. Kirkpatrick, J. R. Kinnamer, P. R. Murray, Geo. Smitherman, Geo. Barbour, Alex Broods. Convention adjourned. Alabama Convention, December, 1899 755 THIRD DAY — WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13. Convention called to order at 9';25 a. m., W. R. Fairley in the chair. For auditors: F. L. Slack, A. Blakely. Convention adjourned. Convention called to order at 1 :30 p. m., W. R. Fairley in the chair. After the officers had been elected a number of resolu- tions were adopted and amendments made to the constitution. It was decided to add two members to the executive board. Action was also taken condemning the action of the court for the incarceration of John P. Reese; advising President Mit- chell to extend the time of Board Member Fairley in District No. 20; and the convention offered a vigorous protest against any member of the United Mine Workers of America continu- ing dual membership in the Knights of Labor. It was resolved to use every effort to establish the eight- hour workday and assist all small local unions in their efforts to be represented at the coming national convention. A resolution was adopted indorsing the national administration for its support during the year 1899. The total receipts for the year were given as $4,488.46; expenses, $3,304.92; bal- ance in treasury December 9, 1899, $1,183.54. The convention adpourned sine die. George W. Young, President. J. L. Clemo, Secretary-Treasurer. GEORGE’S CREEK AND MYERSDALE CONVENTION The convention called by John Mitchell, National Presi- dent; Wm. B. Wilson, President of District No. 2; and Wm. Warner, organizer, met at Moran’s Opera House, Lonaconing, Maryland, at 11 o’clock, Tuesday morning, December 12th, with twenty-three delegates present representing the orga- nized miners in the George’s Creek and Myersdale coal re- gions. Mr. George Harris of Pennsylvania, was among the visitors and attended the convention. 756 United Mine Workers of America FIRST DAY’S PROCEEDINGS. At 11 o’clock Tuesday morning, Organizer Wm. Warner called the delegates to order. Mr. Russell B. Stewart of Lon- aconing, was elected temporary chairman, and Mr. Wm. M. Cochrane of Salisbury, was made temporary secretary. The committee on credentials reported, and the convention ad- journed. On re-assembling, the question under discussion was the advisability of the combination of the Myersdale and George’s Creek regions. The report of the committee on credentials was adopted, and the following delegates declared entitled to seats in the convention : From Maryland — Russell B. Stew- art, Wm. Cuthbertson, Daniel Young, Robert Simpson, Thos. E. Williams, W. H. Price, W. L. Davis, J. R. Close, Howard Saylor, John McGee, F. J. Drum, F. H. Leake, Andrew Mc- Mannus, James M. Conrad, James Hamilton, Wm. M. Coch- rane, Thomas Brehany, Thomas Barnhill, Wm. Sigler, C. 0. Miller, and Patrick Cunningham; from Pennsylvania — J. B. Garber, George May. SECOND day’s PROCEEDINGS. The delegates were called to order at 8:30 a. m. on Wed- nesday, but adjourned to permit the committees on constitu- tion and resolutions time to prepare their reports. The committees were as follows: Constitution — Daniel Young, Robert Simpson and James Hamilton; Resolutions — W. H. Price, W. L. Davis, George May, C. 0. Miller and Thomas S. Williams. After the selection of these committees the convention ad- journed to meet at 1 :30 p. m., and announced that at that time the press would be admitted to note the proceedings. Up to this time the sessions were behind closed doors. At 1 :30 o’clock on Wednesday afternoon the convention was called to order by the chairman. The report of the com- mittee on constitution was read, and the constitution adopted. The report of the committee on resolutions was also read and adopted as follows : We, as a committee on resolutions, beg leave to submit the following for your consideration : Myeksdale and Maryland Convention 757 Whereas, We, the miners of George’s Creek and the Myers- dale regions in convention assembled, having consolidated for the purpose of protecting and promoting our best interests and also having become part of the United Mine Workers of America, also affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, We believe that the time has arrived when a conservative but aggressive step should be taken to ameliorate the general condition of the whole district, therefore be it Resolved, First, That in view of the fact that the mining laws of Maryland and Pennsylvania give us the right of plac- ing checkweighman at all the scales, we would recommend that as soon as practicable the various local unions throughout the district select a competent man from said local to see that the products of our labor be honestly weighed ; That we call the attention of our employers to the fact that there is a discrimination as to the distribution of cars in the mine. Believing that every miner has equal rights with his fellows, we would earnestly request the officials of the com- panies that this injustice be rectified; That the restriction of the hours of labor is forcing itself upon all branches of industry, and that we, the miners of this district, heartily endorse the Chicago agreement and that we will put forth our best efforts to establish the eight-hour sys- tem as soon as we find ourselves in a position to do so ; That the revival of industry which we have witnessed the past year is one for congratulation and it should be our pur- pose to endeavor to prolong this era of more general employ- ment and industrial activity, but regret that the miners of this district have received no benefits therefrom. Believing market conditions will warrant an increase in mining rates of ten cents and all other labor in proportion ; That we recommend that our district officers have these resolutions printed in circular form and that a copy be sent to every operator in the district, requesting them to meet in joint convention with the miners at Cumberland, on Thursday, December 28, 1899, to discuss the question of increase in min- ing rates, -and if possible to establish a more mutual and friendly relationship between employer and employees; That we learn with regret that a number of our craft em- ployed by the George’s Creek Coal & Iron Company at Lona- coning have been notified to seek employment elsewhere after January 1, 1900. Should the above named company claim a scarcity of orders or that other reasons justify their action, that we earnestly request that those men be retained and we are in favor of dividing our work with them; 758 United Mine Workers of America That we give Brother Warner a vote of thanks for the consistent efforts he has put forth for organizing this district, and the success he has achieved and we also endorse our Na- tional President, John Mitchell and his administration for their valuable assistance through Brother Warner in building up our organization. That we, in convention assembled, condemn the action of the federal court in the arrest of J. P. Reese and conviction without trial by jury, and that we sympathize with J. P. Reese, member of the National Board, in his incarceration in the prison at Fort Scott, Kan., and we give him our entire sympa- thy and that a copy of this resolution be printed in the United Mine Workers Journal and a copy be mailed to him. Whereas, As mines have been opened of late known as the thin or small veins, where so much labor is required; there- fore be it Resolved, That delegates to our joint conference to be held, come instructed to fix a scale of prices so that they may be placed on a proportionate basis. Whereas, Lonaconing Local Union No. 148 has afforded such courteous treatment in arranging the grand entertain- ment and banquet ; therefore be it Resolved, That we express our appreciation by a standing vote. We as a committee concur in these resolutions as a whole. Respectfully yours, W. H. Price, Chairman, W. L. Davis, George May, C. 0. Miller, Thos. S. Williams, Committee. Convention adjourned at 5:30 p. m. to meet at 7 :30 p. m. At the evening session reports were heard from the rep- resentatives as to the conditions existing at the respective mines in which they are employed. On motion a committee was appointed to amend the above resolutions to include any grievances which the men of the Myersdale region may desire to report Thursday morning. The convention then adjourned to meet Thursday morning. THURSDAY’S PROCEEDINGS. Delegate Wm. M. Cochrane made a short address on the question of machine mining, telling of the dangers connected with the work, and stating that it was underpaid. Myersdale and Maryland Convention 759 The committee on resolutions reported some additions to the first resolutions of Wednesday, and they were adopted and are now a part of that document. ' The committee appointed to prepare a circular requesting the joint conference between the miners and operators, re- ported as follows: Lonaconing, Md., Decemiber 14, 1899. To the presidents of the various coal companies of George’s Creek, Maryland, and the Myersdale Region of Pennsyl- vania : Whereas, We,, the representatives of the miners of George’s Creek, Maryland, and the Myersdale regions in convention assembled, have unanimously agreed upon the following: That the revival of industry which we witnessed this past year is pne for congratulation, and it should be our purpose to endeavor to prolong this era of more general employment and industrial activity, and believing that we, as miners, should share in this general prosperity and ameliorate the ex- isting grievances, we, therefore, respectfully desire that you meet with us in joint conference at Cumberland, Thursday, December 28, 1899, to consider the following questions : First — An advance in the price of mining and other labor. Second — An equal distribution of tonnage mined per man. Third — The laws granting us the privilege of checkweigh- men. We respectfully desire to place checkweighmen at every scale. We take it for granted that you realize that we have pursued a most conservative policy since the issuance of your last circular. Believing in the justice and fairness of our claims, we sincerely hope you will meet with us in joint con- ference. (Signed.) P. S. — If the date December 28, 1899, may be inconvenient for this joint conference, we respectfully request that nego- tiations be made with not later than December 22, 1899, to have a more suitable date definitely fixed as near as possible to December 28, 1899. It was adopted as read. Officers were elected as follows: District President, Allan Barber; Vice-President, James M. Conrad; Secretary-Treas- urer, Wm. Cochrane; Executive Board of four members^ — Andrew McMannus, Daniel Young, George May and Robert Simpson ; Auditors, Russell B. Stewart and J. E. Garber. Convention adjourned. CHAPTER XXXIV. PROCEEDINGS, DISTRICT No. 2. Clearfield, Pa., December 12, 1899. Convention came to order at 11 a. m., W. B. Wilson pre- siding. The following committee on credentials was appointed: Currie, Roberts, Walters. Convention adjourned until 1 p. m. to give the committee on credentials time to report. Committee reported that all delegates present were en- titled to vote in convention. The following committee was appointed to see the opera- tors as to whether they would meet the miners in joint con- vention in a body, or whether they desired that a committee of operators should meet with a committee of miners: Dele- gates Patrick Gilday, John R. Paisley, Bruce Williams and David Jones. Motions made and carried that all differentials existing prior to 1894 be enforced. Resolved, That the loading of coal by day hands be abol- ished and all men get a fair share of cars and work; that fee checks be abolished; that no miner shall cut, haul and load his own coal; and we denounce all men in general who do dirty work. The committee appointed to meet the operators reported that it was the desire of the operators to meet a committee of the miners’ delegates. The following committee was ap- pointed, along with the district and national officers: Dele- gates Gilday, Lenore, McTaggart, Nicholson, Garland, Rounds- ley, Mowry, Paisley. At the meeting of committee the operators contended that a large percentage of the coal produced was being filled for contracts that would not expire until April 1, and that they should be exonerated from paying a higher rate until that time. Also that they were not aware that the agreement had not been lived up to and that if the miners would give them ( 760 ) District 2 Convention, December, 1899 761 thirty days’ time they would endeavor to have the dispute in the Tioga field adjusted. Resolutions committee appointed': Jones, Garrity, Moriari- ty. Brook, Devins, Fisher, Gensley. A recess was then declared. Convention called to order by President Wilson at 1 :35 p. m. A general discussion followed. Resolved, That we demand an advance in wages of 10 cents per ton in pick mining, 12^ cents per ton on machine loading and 20 per cent on all other kinds of labor, and one-quarter of machine price for machine cutting and scraping, to go into effect on January 1, 1900. Resolved, That the demand shall not apply to those opera- tors who have signed agreements with us that do not expire until April 1 next, except where it is proven that the spirit as well as the letter of the agreement has been broken by the operators. Resolved, That the officers of the district be instructed to proceed forthwith to prepare the district to put those demands into effect. Resolved, That if a satisfactory settlement is obtained for the Tioga miners on or before December 25, 1899, and a suffi- cient number of operators signify their intention of attending the national convention of operators and miners, to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, in January, to satisfy the officers that it is not a scheme to kill time, then the officers of the district are authorized to notify the miners to continue working until after the national convention has determined on a policy to pursue. The committee then retired to present resolutions to op- erators. A recess was then declared to wait until the committee re- turned with report. Motion made and carried that Mrs. Jones address the con- vention. Pending the return of the committee Mrs. Jones then ad- dressed the convention. Committee then reported they were ready to report the result of their interview with the operators. Report was given as follows: That the operators would do all they possibly could to adjust the difficulty in Tioga 762 United Mine Workers of America county and if the agreement is not violated they would en- deavor to meet the miners at Indianapolis. Motion made and carried that we adjourn. Convention called to order by President Wilson at 9:05 a. m. Collection was then taken up to assist Tioga miners. Motion made and carried that general mass meetings be held on December 27, 1899. Motion made and carried that all operators who failed to avail themselves of the opportunity of signing the miners’ agreement be placed in the same category as those operators who failed to meet us in convention. Convention adjourned. Convention called to order at 1 :50 p. m. by President Wilson. Addresses were then delivered by Edward McKay and Mrs. Mary Jones. After addresses had been delivered con- vention again went into a business session. Motion made and carried that if the demand be granted on January 1 that one-half of the advance received be given towards the support of those who are still out contending for the advance. Motion made and carried that a vote of thanks be tendered Mrs. Jones for her able address to the convention. Convention adjourned. (Seal) Richard Gilbert, Secretary-Treasurer. CHARLESTON, W. VA., CONVENTION. The tenth annual convention of District No. 17 was held at Charleston, West Virginia, December 19, 1899, with Presi- dent Joseph Smith in the chair. The convention was fairly well attended with George Scott, Thomas Farry, Thomas Brooks, Henry Stephenson, L. Holestine and George Pointer among the delegates present. The report of the president contained valuable suggestions for the future welfare of the district, not forgetting to make reference to the assault made upon him and national organizer George Scott by superintendent John Laing and his confeder- ates that the coal companies employed for that purpose. Illustrated Lecture by H. W. Smith 763 Resolutions were adopted condemning such nefarious work on the part of coal operators whose sole purpose was to pre- vent organization being introduced in the West Virginia coal field. A number of other resolutions were adopted and the following officers elected: President, S. C. Harless; Vice-Presi- dent, George Pointer; Secretary, George Scott; State Board Members, W. F. Larrison, A. J. Lusk, Robert Perry, Patrick Conner, A. J. Branham. Joseph M. Smith, President. S. C. Harless, Secretary. WORTHY UNDERTAKING. Late in December, 1899, H. W. Smith of Illinois, an old- time miner and staunch trades unionist, completed arrange- ments for a new and novel feature of entertainment which he took on the road later. Brother Smith’s plan of entertainment was an illustrated lecture upon the labor problem. He secured pictures of all the various leaders prominent in the labor movement, together with copies of the different labels of union workers, which were shown to advantage by stereopticon views during the course of his lectures. Among many others in his collection were the illustrious faces of John Siney, first president of the Miners’ National Union, organized in Youngstown, 0., 1873; Thomas Arm- strong, founder of the National Labor Tribune; A. C. Cam- eron, founder of Workingmen’s Advocate, established at Chicago in the ’60’s ; W. H. Sylvis, president of the Iron Mold- ers’ Union in the ’60’s; “Old Dan” McLaughlin, George E. McNeill, Samuel Gompers, and others. He made special feat- ures of interest to the mining craft, and exhibited views of injunctions, the Virden battle, John Kane’s monument, the National Executive Board, the Illinois Executive Board, all organizers and others prominently connected with the move- ment. >- 2-5 ■E=ii = *i! = S£2i := --^ ' W 05 o 00 u ^ ^ -C d ^ 'Z d K = 5a >. i s' i _ : P o u o w m O t- -C o s § “.s 'g 0) O 0 ) ta £ 3 mo o S Cutting in rooms, thin vein, screened coal $ Cutting in rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal Cutting in rooms, thick vein, screened coal Cutting in rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal Cutting in entries, thin vein, screened coal Cutting in entries, thin vein, mine-run coal Cutting in entries, thick vein, screened coal Cutting in entries, thick vein, mine-run coal Loading in rooms, thin vein, screened coal Loading in rooms, thin vein, mine-run coaL Loading in rooms, thick vein, screened coal Loading in rooms, thick vein; mine-run coal Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, screened coal Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, screened coal Hand drilling and loading in rooms, thick vein, mine-nm coal Power drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, screened coal ; Power drilling and loading in rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal Power drilling and loading in rooms, thick vein, screened coal Power drilling and loading in rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal Hand drilling and loading in entries, thin vein screened coal Hand drilling and loading in entries, thin vein, mine-run coal Hand drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, screened coal Hand drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, mine-run coal . Power drilling and loading in entries, thin vein, screened coal Hand drilling and loading in entries,, thick vein, mine-run coal Power drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, screened coal Power drilling and loading in entries, thick vein, mine-run coal Loading in entries, thin vein, screened coal Loading in entries, thin vein, mine-run coal Loading in entries, thick vein,’ screened coal Loading in entries, thick vein, mine-run coal Hand drilling in break-throughs, between entries, entry price • i 2 y 2 $ .08 .0807 .0517 .10 .064 .0645 .0413 .131/2 .11 .0870 .0711 .108 .0697 .33 .33 .2133 .2133 .264 .264 .1706 .1706 .36 .36 .2327 .2327 .288 .288 .1860 .1860 .35 .35 .2262 .2262 .28 .28 .1809 .1809 .44% .44 V 8 .2876 .2876 .356 .356 .2300 .2300 .43% .43% .2812 .2812 .348 .348 .2250 .2250 .41% .41% .2682 .2682 .332 .332 .2145 .2145 794 United Mine Workers of America Loaxiing in break-throughs, between rooms, tliin vein screened coal .39 .39 Loading in break-throughs, between rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal .2520 .2520 Loading in break-throughs, between rooms, thick vein, screened coal .312 .312 Loading in break-throughs, between rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal .2016 .2016 Loading and hand drilling in break-throughs, between rooms, thin vein, screened coal .44% .44% Loading and hand drilling in break-throughs, between rooms, thin vein, mine-run coal .2876 .2876 Loading and hand drilling in break-throughs, between rooms, thick vein, screened coal .356 .356 Loading and hand drilling in break-throughs, between rooms, thick vein, mine-run coal .2300 .2300 Power drilling, thin vein, screened coal .0200 .0200 Power drilling, thin vein, mine-run coal .0130 .0130 Power drilling, thick vein, screened coal .0160 .0160 Power drilling, thick vein, mine-run coal .0100 .0100 Hand drilling, thin vein, screened coal i .0300 .0300 Hand drilling, thin vein, mine-run coal .0200 .0200 Hand drilling, thick vein, screened coal .0240 .0240 Hand drilling, thick vein, mine-run coal .0160 .0160 Loading and cutting in room turning, entry price Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thin vein, screened coal -41% Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thin vein, mine-run coal .2682 Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thick vein, screened coal .332 Loading in break-throughs, between entries, thick vein, mine-run coal .2145 MASSILLON, OHIO, JOINT AGREEMENT, 1898. A joint committee, composed of operators and miners of the Massillon district, met at Massillon, April 6, 1898, and agreed upon the following scale of prices for inside deadwork and supplies : Mining, per ton $ .66 Entry, single shift 1.75 Entry, double shift 2.00 Break-throughs between entries, per yard 1.50 Break-throughs between rooms, per yard 1.12 Turning rooms 1.65 All inside day labor, by miners 1.75 Dirt coming down unavoidably, 5 cents for every six inches. Ripping top and bottom, 5 cents per inch per yard. Horsebacks to be agreed upon by miners and mine boss. Operators to take water out or to agree with miners as to price. Entry four yards wide to be 35 cents per yard less than narrow entry. Wet entry, price to be agreed upon by miner and mine boss. Car limit, 2,500 pounds. Powder, per keg 1.60 Oil, per gallon .50 Joint Agreement District 23, 1898 795 House coal, per ton Smithing, entries Smithing, rooms : At tlie above rates all persons are to furnish their own oil. 1.40 . 01 % .01 It was moved by Mr. Howells that Saturday shall be con- sidered as any other day of the week; that is to say, that it shall consist of eight hours’ work. If, however, at any time in the future, it shall be known that any district in the state shall agree to work only one-half day on Saturdays, we, the operators in the Massillon district, agree to take the matter up with a committee of miners appointed for that purpose. Moved by Mr. Howells, that one hour for dinner shall be the rule in the Massillon coal district. However, if less time shall be generally adopted throughout the state of Ohio, .we, the operators of the Massillon district, are willing to take the matter up with a committee of miners appointed for that purpose. Moved by Mr. Howells, that sun time shall be used in the Massillon coal district, work to commence at 7 o’clock a- m., taking one hour for dinner from 11 to 12; quitting time at 4 o’clock p. m., sun time. If, however, standard time shall be generally adopted in the Ohio coal districts, the Massillon op- erators expect and shall use standard time also. All inside labor to be same as adopted at Columbus, Ohio, as follows: Track Layers $1.90 Track Layers’ Helpers 1.75 Trappers .75 Bottom Cagers 1.75 Drivers 1.75 Trip Drivers ■ 1.75 Water Haulers 1.75 Timbermen 1.90 Pipe Men for Compressed Air Plants 1.85 All Other Inside Day Labor 1.75 Signed on behalf of miners by : Wm. Morgan, District President. M. B. Evans, District Vice-President. John Williams, Secretary-Treasurer. Frank Welch. Stephen J. Evans. James Crichton. 796 United Mine Workers of America Signed on behalf of operators by ; J. P. Burton, Chairman. E. E. Fox, Secretary. A. Howell. J. F. POCOCK. R. H. Wainwright. James Wilson. W. J. Mullins. JOINT AGREEMENT, DISTRICT NO. 23, 1898. "ARe following agreement entered into in the joint con- vention at Central City, Kentucky, April 14, 1898, by and between the mine operators (of the Louisville division of the J. C. and the 0. & N. roads) and their employes, Witnesseth : PICK MINING. Resolution No. 1. Resolved, That the price of pick mining for the year end- ing March 31, 1899, shall be 66 cents per ton, over the district standard screen. It is distinctly understood that when any company uses a shaker screen that screens more than the standard screen they shall weigh coal in the cars on a run-of- mine basis. It is agreed that the ratio of lump coal to mine- run over li/^-inch district standard screen shall be based on 62 per cent going into the weigh-box, and this per cent shall regulate the ratio of lump and run-of-mine coal whenever any change is made in the price of mining. That the mine-run price shall be 41 cents per ton, an equiv- alent of 62 per cent of 66 cents, the price of lump coal. It is understood that coal shall be mined 2)^ feet, and the solid may be shot not more than an equal amount. Resolution No. 2. Resolved, That the price of yardage in entries shall be $1 per yard, but when the entry exceeds 10 feet and not more than 12 feet the price shall be 75 cents per yard, and no yard- age shall be paid in excess of 12 feet. Should the bank boss and miner driving an entry agree that it is wet then the miner shall receive 25 cents per yard extra. Resolution No. 3. Resolved, That the price of turning rooms shall be $3 per room. Joint Agreements for 1898 797 MACHINE MINING. Resolution lio. 4- Resolved, That the price for drilling, shooting, loading and timbering, after the chain and punch machines, shall be one- half of the price of pick mining. There shall be no differential in loading between the punch and chain machines, on condition that the companies using chain machines brad the coal, handle the slack and take up the bottom. Resolution No. 5. Resolved, That chain runners and helpers shall be paid at the rate of $3.75 per 27 cuts, under ordinary conditions, di- vided : $2 to the runner and $1.75 to the helper; and when they work by the day the runner shall receive 25 cents an hour and the helper 21 7-8 cents, per hour. The punch machine runners shall receive 6 cents per ton and the helpers 4 cents per ton for mine-run coal; and when they work by the day the runner shall receive 25 cents per hour and the helper 18% cents per hour. Resolution No. 6. Resolved, That the yardage for chain machines and punch machines shall be 50 cents per yard, to be divided as follows : 35 cents to the loader, 8 cents to the cutter and 7 cents to the helper in chain machine mines; and 26% cents to the loader, 14 cents to the cutter and 9% cents to the helper in punch ma- chine mines. Resolution No. 7. Resolved, That turning rooms in machine mines shall be paid for by the yard at 50 cents per yard, divided between loaders and cutters and their helpers. Resolution No. 8. Resolved, That the company shall lay all roads and timber all bad places not caused by the miner’s own negligence. Resolution No. 9. Resolved, That a square turn shall be kept over the mines in rooms and narrow work, under ordinary conditions. Half turn to boys between 12 and 16 years. Resolution No. 10. Resolved, That miners absent without notice to their bank boss for three consecutive days shall forfeit their working place. 798 United Mine Workers of America Resolution No. 11. Resolved, That any miner loading an unusual amount of slate, sulphur or other impurities shall be laid olf one day for each offense. The weighmaster and the checkweighman to be the judges of such unusual amount, and any miner laid off three times during any one month shall then be subject to discharge. Resolution No. 12. Resolved, That the checkweighman shall have a number to run his account, and shall be allowed to cut each miner to an amount not exceeding $1 per month. It is distinctly understood that such cuts must be with the approval of each miner. Any additional cuts can only be made on the written order of each employe, and such orders shall be payable out of the cash balance due to the said employe on pay day. That no miner shall be blacklisted who does not agree to have checkweighman or other cuts collected. Union and non-union men shall be employed without prejudice. Resolution No. 13. Resolved, That no mass meeting shall be held during work- ing hours, on or off the companies’ premises, when the mine is running, and anyone calling a meeting shall be subject to discharge. No committee shall visit any employe at his working place, except in company with the bank boss, to settle a grievance and any employe caught out of his working place during work- ing hours, except for satisfactory reasons, is liable to have his turn stopped at the option of the bank boss. Resolution No. I 4 . Resolved, That all labor shall be paid for by the hour or quarters of hours and that eight hours shall constitute a day’s labor, so far as mine laborers and miners are concerned, but the eight hours shall not affect the engineers, firemen, pump- ers, outside teamsters, night watchmen or special repair work, nor such men as are how paid by the month. That an eight-hour day means eight hours’ work in the mine at usual working places for all classes of day labor and miners, and any miner late without reasonable excuse shall forfeit his turn for the day. This shall be exclusive of the time required in reaching working places and departing from same at night. Regarding drivers, they shall take their mules to and from the stable, and the time in so doing shall not include any part Joint Agreement District 23, 1898 799 of the day’s work, their work beginning when they reach the change at which they receive empty cars, but in no case shall a driver’s time be docked while he' is waiting for such cars at point needed. That the following scale of wages shall be paid for inside work : Per Day. Tracklayers $1.75 Tracklayers’ Helpers 1.60 Trappers .50 Bottom Cagers 1.60 Drivers 1.60 Riders 1.60 Water Haulers 1.60 Timbermen : 1.75 Pipemen 1.70 All Other Inside Day Labor ; 1.60 The present outside scale of wages per hour in force at each mine shall remain unchanged, except that we agree that eight hours’ work shall receive nine hours’ pay. Resolution No. 15. That there shall be no boys employed as drivers, except on straight track, and said drivers shall receive 25 cents per day less than the district scale. Resolution No. 16. Resolved, That employes are liable to be discharged for : (a) Disorderly conduct. (b) Gambling and shooting on the company’s premises. (c) Taking coal, tools, timber, etc., without permission. (d) Firing before the run stops without permission of the bank boss. (e) Committing a nuisance in entries, airways or the necks of rooms. Resolution No. 17. . Resolved, That in case of a death in the family of an em- ploye the following rules shall prevail ; (a) Death by accident in or around the mines shall lay the mine idle until after the funeral. (b) Death of a grown person or employe from natural causes, the mine will lay idle on the afternoon of the funeral. (c) On the death of a child or minor, the work will not lay idle, but those wishing to attend the funeral may do so. The turn lost by the grave diggers in the last two rules shall be made up to them during the month. 800 United Mine Workers of America Resolution No. 18. Resolved, That we require that married men shall at all times form the majority of all grievance committees. • Resolution No. 19. Resolved, That in all conferences the employes of each mine, or especially the mine affected, shall be represented by not less than three of the employes of such mine, and that the voting power shall always be vested in such employes, but this does not preclude the presence of any officials of the labor •organization. Resolution No. 20. Resolved, That there shall be a board of arbitration and conciliation to adjust all disputes arising under this agree- ment, composed of three on each side, with power to select an umpire, and their decision shall be final and binding on all parties to this agreement and those they represent, but under no circumstances shall work stop, and any suspension of work before the decision of the arbitrator is received, such sus- pension will be sufficient cause to discharge all parties causing the dispute. Resolution No. 21. Resolved, That it is the spirit of this agreement that, in consideration of the co-operation of the mining companies with the United Mine Workers of America, said organization must at all times show, when required, that they control two- thirds of the mine employes of the district making this agree- ment, and in consideration of such co-operation the said or- ganization guarantees uniformity and equality of mining and day scale wages with other competitive mines, especially those of western Kentucky. This has special reference to the I. C. and 0. & N. mines for immediate uniformity, but this equality is guaranteed with the Henderson division mines by September 1, 1898. - Resolution No. 22. Resolved, That this contract goes into effect May 1, 1898, and continues in force until March 31, 1899. In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names, this 14th day of April, J. F. Smith, Joe B. Reed, James A. Walker, Thomas R. Jeffreys, J. H. Williams, Miners’ Scale Committee. 1898. C. L. Field, Simon Jones, J. S. Williams, C. W. Taylor, Guy M. Deane, Operators’ Scale Committee. Joint Agreement District 20, 1898 801 W. G. Knight, Joseph Smith, W. G. Duncan, Hywell Davies, Advisory for Operators. GIjy M. Deane, Secretary for Operators. Advisory for Miners. James Wood, Secretary for Miners. JOINT INTERPRETATION. Pittsburg, Pa., May 31, 1898. To the Operators and Miners of the Monongahela Valley of the Pittsburg District. Gentlemen : Under a resolution adopted at our last joint convention held in this city May 19-21, we, your committee, met today to consider the question of the arbitration of the differentials of the different pools of the Monongahela river, with the fol- lowing result : First — That the arbitration of the mining prices in any of the districts governed by the Chicago agreement would be a violation of the agreement, as will be seen by its preamble, as follows: Chicago, January 28. — Contract between the operators of the central coal fields and the United Mine Workers of America: The following agreement made and entered into in joint interstate convention in this city (Chi- cago, 111.), by and between the operators and miners of Illi- nois, Indiana, Ohio and Western Pennsylvania, known as the Pittsburg thin vein district, witnesseth : Second — That the prices fixed in Chicago were relatively fair and competitive and agreed to by all representatives of the fields named, and that the departure from such prices dur- ing the life of our contract would unjustly affect and injure the interests of all of the districts represented. Third — That the interests who are suing for arbitration, namely the operators of the third pool of the Monongahela river, were parties to the Chicago agreement and fully sub- scribed to all of its provisions, and are, therefore, not en- titled to any lower prices than that provided for the thin vein district during the life of our present agreement. Fourth — That, if concessions of this character were granted in any of the fields governed by our agreement it would no doubt lead to the demoralization and disruption of our present joined relations, which we have labored so long and so hard to accomplish. In view of these facts and others that might be given show- ing the fairness and justness of the position we have taken, we, your committee, do heartily recommend to all miners and operators that the Chicago agreement be strictly adhered to 802 United Mine Workers of America at all the mines in this district, and that wherever such prices are not acceded to, the miners will take the necessary steps to enforce it. Signed in behalf of the operators : I. N. Bunton, W. B. Rodgers, W. W. O’Neil. In behalf of the miners: Pat Dolan, William Warner, M. D. Ratchford. LOCAL CONTRACT DISTRICT 20, BETWEEN THE TENNESSEE COAL, IRON AND RAILROAD COMPANY AND ITS BLOCTON MINERS. Birmingham, Ala., June 30, 1898. The Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company and the duly authorized representatives of the miners from Blockton have this day agreed upon the following contract from July 1, 1898, until June 30, 1899 : The price of mining to be a minimum of 40 cents per ton when all grades of pig iron net the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company $7.10 or less f. o. b. cars at the furnaces in Alabama, and for every advance of 50 cents per ton in the net price received for all grades of iron there shall be an advance of 2f4 cents per ton in the price of mining, until the net price received for all grades of iron reaches $9.10 per ton, when the price of mining would be 50 cents per ton. Thereafter the price of mining shall advance 2i/4 cents for each one dollar ad- vance in the net price received for all grades of iron. In the big seam at Blocton, when the size of the coal is reduced to below four feet, there shall be an advance of 2i/4 cents in the price of mining, and if the coal is reduced below three feet the price of mining shall advance 5 cents above the scale in that seam. The coal is to be weighed during the continuance of this contract at all mines where it is now being weighed and check- weighmen are to be allowed as in the past. The price of iron to be determined as follows : The miners to appoint one or more duly authorized representatives to act for them, and such representative or representatives to meet with the representative or representatives of the company not later than the 5th day of each month, and at such meeting to examine all books, sale memoranda or other evidence in the possession of the company as might show the actual average price at which the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Com- Joint Agreement C. & A. R. R. Mines 803 pany sold all grades of iron in the previous month, and such price, when determined, to be announced by the representa- tives to both the miners and the company, and to be binding upon both. If the representatives of the miners and the company fail to agree as to what was the selling price of all grades of iron for any month, then they are to agree upon and call in another person, who is not a miner or an employe of the company, who shall, upon investigation of the actual sales made, determine the price, and such determination shall be binding upon both parties to this contract. The expenses of the representatives or representatives of the miners and others governed by the scale to be regulated and paid by them. Such expense to be prorated by the com- mittee at so much per miner, and others governed by the scale, whose names appear on the roll, and to be collected by the company and turned over to the committee. Dead work and day labor in mines and house rent of miners and mine laborers and powder to be governed by the scale as furnished each party. Mining rules to be the same as at present. No discrimination is to be made in the distribution of work against the colored miners, but all competent colored men are to have an equal chance at work. The term “all grades of pig iron” means all grades except silver gray and white. TENNESSEE COAL, IRON AND RAILROAD CO., By G. B. McCormack, General Manager. John Kelley, A. H. Gentry, Veto Waney, D. H. Wilson, D. A. Johnston, W. D. McGinnis, Geo. Young, W. J. Hand, H. Scott. Approved : Mh R. Fairley, President District 20, United Mine Workers of America. 804 United Mine Workers of America REPORT AND JOINT AGREEMENT ON CHICAGO AND ALTON RAIL- ROAD, AUGUST 17, 1898. Springfield, Illinois. M. D. Ratchford, Esq., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir: We, the undersigned committee, to whom was assigned the duty of investigating mining conditions along the Chicago and Alton track south of Springfield, do hereby report our findings. The conditions under which the investigation was con- ducted are covered in the following agreement, entered into at Indianapolis, August 8, 1898 : ARTICLE OF AGREEMENT. Indianapolis, Indiana, August 8, 1898. Witnesseth — We, the undersigned, operators and miners south of Springfield, Illinois, do hereby agree to leave the set- tlement of the mining price to be paid in said district, until April 1 next, to President M. D. Ratchford and the National Executive Board, or such members thereof as the national president may be able to send to make investigations in order to reach their determination. Such investigation to cover the different points of competition and the price arrived at to be a fair relative one; and that such price shall be reached not later than August 16 next. And we do further hereby agree to abide by the decision reached. Signed on behalf of operators : Chicago Virden Coal Co., F. W. Lukins, Manager. ViRDEN Coal Co., C. H. Hurst, President. Carlinville, Coal Co., W. H. Behrens, Secretary. Litchfield Mining and Power Co., A. G. Klinebeck, Receiver. Signed on behalf of miners : M. D. Ratchford, President. John M. Hunter, W. D. Ryan, Wood Marble, James Hall, Thos. Gallagher, Pete Owens, J. A. Murphy. O’Gara and King Joint Agreement in District 12 805 Chicago, Illinois, November 16, 1898. The following agreement to remain in force from date until April 1, 1899 : Memorandum of agreement between the O’Gara and King Mining Company and the United Mine Workers of America : Section 1. The price per ton of pick-mined, run of mine coal to be 40 cents, the miners agreeing to shoot the bottom coal before shooting the top coal. Section 2. Entry price to be $1.35 per yard for eight feet and $1.15 for twelve-foot entries, turning room $2.50, machine mining 33 cents per ton run of mine coal, entry machine min- ing, eight foot, 38 cents per ton, square turn to be kept, each miner receiving an equal number of cars. Props to be sawed square on butt end. No docking for loading unclean coal. Same arrangements to be agreed to between the superintend- ent of the O’Gara and King Mining Company and the pit committee which will fully protect the said company. The employes of the O’Gara and King Mining Company expressly agree to observe carefully the laws and constitutional re- quirements of the United Mine Workers of America. No em- ploye to be discharged without good and sufficient cause. The miners agree that mass meetings will not be held in the mines. The company agrees to employ all former employes without discrimination. The following scale of wages to be paid day laborers : Per day— Company men, $1.75; drivers, $1.75; track layers, $1.90; timber men, $1.90; all other inside labor, $1.75. trappers, $.75. Outside labor to be paid the scale agreed to between the O’Gara and King Mining Company and said top men during the resumption of work last June. The company agrees to furnish the pit committee with a check and permit them to check-off union dues and other assessments required by the United Mine Workers of America. Signed on behalf of the O’Gara and King Mining Company : O’Gara and King Mining Company. Signed on behalf of the United Mine Workers of America: . John Mitchell, John Hunter, W. R. Russell, , W. D. Ryan, Edw. Cahill. Dan’l J. Keefe, Chairman. 806 United Mine Workers of America JOINT agreement DISTRICT 19. McHenry, Kentucky, January 6, 1899. Resolved, That the chain machine operators and miners of the Central Kentucky district jointly agree that 3 % cents per ton shall be the price paid for bradding of coal, taking up of bottom and removing dust, from the 16th day of January, 1899, until March 31, 1899, with the understanding that an- other joint conference shall be held to agree upon a new scale of prices not later than February 13, 1899. And it is further agreed that not more than eight inches of bottom coal shall be left to be taken up. And for every inch of bottom over eight inches the miner to get 14 of a cent per ton extra for every inch. The bank boss and machine boss to hold the cutting down as close to the bottom as possible. Signed on part of miners : J. H. Doss, President. J. B. Bender, Vice-President. J. R. Jeffrey, Member Executive Board, Chris Evans, Representative, U. M. W. of A. Signed on part of operators : W. G. Duncan, H. Davies, (By Simon Jones.) BLOOMINGTON ILLINOIS AGREEMENT. Made and entered into this 8th day of February, A. D. 1899, by and between the McLean County Coal Company, of Bloomington, Illinois, of the first part, and the United Mine Workers of America, of the second part, viz. : That it is hereby agreed and understood that the party of the first part agrees to adopt the agreement as made by the joint conven- tion of operators and miners at Pittsburg, Pa., January 24, 1899, said agreement to take effect from March 6, 1899, and continue in force to March 31, 1900. DISTRICT 13, IO\VA — CENTERVILLE JOINT AGREEMENT — MARCH 9, 1899. This agreement, made and entered into this 9th day of March, 1899, at Centerville, Iowa, by and between the United Mine Workers of America, in conventidn assembled, party of the first part, and the undersigned coal operators of the low- coal district Imown as Sub-district No. 1 of District No. 13. of the United Mine Workers of America, party of the second part. Witnesseth, That the annual price for pick mining shall Joint Agreement District 13 807 be 85 cents per ton of 2,000 pounds screened coal over the screens now in use from March 1, 1899, to February 28, 1900, and that hand-picked coal be considered under this agreement as screened coal. 2. That the pay be semi-monthly. 3. That the long-wall machine question be submitted for arbitration to a judge of the second judicial district of the State of Iowa, who shall render a decision not later than April 1, 1899, said decision to be binding on all parties and is hereby made a part of this agreement. 4. That the miner keep and be responsible for his road- way, measuring twenty feet outward from the face of the coal, and also in the long-wall work to keep his wall in good order for the agreed distance. Corner-cutting in long-wall work to be 50 cents per yard, the miner to deliver his coal at his own switch. 5. Eight hours shall constitute a day’s work. THE UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA; By John F. Ream, President District No. 13. John P. Reese, Vice-President. Operators ; Big Jo Coal Co., by W. Harkes, Gen. Supt. Columbia Coal Co., by W. E. Baker, Pres. Walnut Creek Coal Co., D. C. Bradley. Mystic Fuel Co., James A. Seddon. Gust Pearson Co., by Emil Johnson. Lodwick Bros. Co., by David Lodwick. Orr Bros., by Alenxander Orr. Acken Co., by W. Porter. Crescent Coal Co., by Daniel Clark. Peacock Coal Co., by R. F. Lawton. Brazil Coal Co., by B. F. Silknitter. White-Breast Fuel Co., by J. Holland. Happy Coal Co., by C. Erickson. Seymour Coal Co., by George Elmore. F. H. JUCKET, per B. C. Busby. Peerless Coal Co., T. E. Lee, President. Lone Star Coal Co., by J. Seddon. Mystic Coal Co., J. L. Helm. I. & M. Coal & Mining Co., by A. B. Dudley. Darby Block Co., by George Guild. Scandinavian Co., by Claus Johnson. Phoenix Coal Co., by Joseph Turner. Centerville Block Coal Co., W. W. Oliver. Numa Coal Co., by A. G. Widmer. Anchor Coal Co., by J. Wilson. 808 United Mine Workers of America Columbus, 0., March 10, 1898. inside day wage scale from APRIL 1, 1898, TO MARCH 31, 1899. Tracklayers Tracklayers’ helpers Trappers Bottom cagers Drivers Trip riders Water haulers Timbermen, where such are employed Pipe men, for compressed air plants Company men in long wall mines, third vein districts, Northern Illinois- All other inside day labor $1.90 1.75 .75 1.75 1.75 1.75 1.75 1.90 1.85 1.75 1.75 The above scale was arrived at by taking the average of the wages paid in all of the competitive districts and reducing said average to an eight-hour day, then adding the advance to said average to correspond with the advance in the price of min- ing to be paid April 1st next. Resolution No. 1. — The above schedule of day wages ap- plies only to men employed in the performance of their labor, and does not apply to boys unless they can do and are em- ployed to do a man’s work. Resolution No. 2. — Whereas, We have failed to agree upon a uniform rate of wages for the different classes of outside labor for the entire competitive field, owing to the variations of conditions over which we have no control ; Resolved, That the employing of outside day laborers around the mine and wages to be paid the same shall be left entirely to the employers and such employes in all the com- petitive districts, and the question of uniform wages for out- side labor be referred to our next interstate joint convention. Resolved, That where any member of the present force of outside day labor in the competitive field prefers to work in the mine in preference to accepting the wages offered for their services as outside day laborers, they shall be given places in the mine to mine coal. Resolution No. 3. — Resolved, That an eight-hour day means eight hours’ work in the mine at usual working places for all classes of inside day labor. This shall be exclusive of the time required in reaching such working places in the morning and departing from same at night. Regarding drivers they shall take their mules to and from the stables and time in doing so shall not include any part of the day’s labor, their work beginning when they reach the change at which they receive empty cars, but in no case shall a driver’s time be docked while he is waiting for the cars at the point named. Joint Agreement District 12 809 Resolution No. 4. — Resolved, That when the men go into the mine in the morning they shall be entitled to two hours’ pay, whether or not the mine works the full two hours. But after the first two hours the men shall be paid for every hour thereafter by the hour for each hour’s work or fractional part thereof. If for any reason the regular routine work can not be furnished the inside labor for a portion of the first two hours, the operators may furnish other than regular labor for the unexpired time. The above was agreed to after the most careful discussion of each item, and we believe it to be the best and most equit- able solution of the questions involved, taking into considera- tion the various interests to be harmonized in order to reach a uniform scale. It is expected that all the prices and conditions shall be strictly adhered to by both operators and miners. Signed : S. M. Dalzell, Chairman. T. L. Lewis, Secretary. Committee on behalf of operators : Illinois — S. M. Dalzell and A. Moorshead. Indiana Bituminous — Jos. H. McClelland and P. H. Penna. Indiana Block — W. W. Risher. Ohio — J. S. Morton and W. J. Mullins. Pennsylvania — G. W. Schluederberg and John A. O’Neil. Committee on behalf of miners : Illinois — John M. Hunter and W. D. Ryan. Indiana Block — Barney Navin. Indiana Bituminous — J. H. Kennedy and W. G. Knight. Ohio — W. E. Farms and T. L. Lewis. Pennsylvania — P. Dolan and Wm. Warner. On behalf of the United Mine Workers of America : M. D. Ratchford, President. W. C. Pearce, Secretary. JOINT AGREEMENT — DISTRICT 12. Springfield, Illinois, March 10, 1899. We, your joint scale committee, appointed by the miners’ and operators’ convention, in Springfield, Illinois, beg leave to offer the following report : First: That we hereby ratify the Pittsburg agreement, carrying with it the Columbus and Springfield agreement as modified, with the understanding that the mines are to remain at work for the scale year ending March 31, 1900. Second. That the board of arbitration, as provided for 810 United Mine Workers of America in the Pittsburg agreement, namely, three (3) miners and three (3) operators, the six (6) to select a seventh (7th) shall be appointed by this convention to arbitrate the ma- chine differential in the State of Illinois. The question to be arbitrated being whether or not the various districts of Illi- nois are entitled to any reduction in the Springfield scale differentials as against Danville, the basing point; and, if so, how much. Third. That where in any district discrepancies exist be- tween the various mines of that district in narrow and de- ficient work, and it is desired by the miners or operators of that district to adjust uniformly the prices for narrow and deficient work in that district, it shall be the duty of said operators and miners to appoint a joint committee for that purpose; and when so adjusted it shall remain in force until the end of the scale year. Fourth. That there shall be appointed a committee of operators and miners, representing the various contract dis- tricts, whose duty it shall be to investigate the conditions in each and every mine and district in this state and report to a joint convention of miners and operators, to be called prior to January 1 next, the data gathered by such committee to be used in formulating a scale for the various districts of Illinois, and that it is the sense of this convention that the miners and operators after arriving at a local scale for Illinois be prepared to stand for the same terms and conditions in all of the four (4) competitive states. It shall be the duty of this committee to demonstrate by all practical means the relative conditions existing through- out the entire State of Illinois, as against the competitive states. Fifth. That we, as operators, will recognize the pit com- mittee and will agree to check-off all dues and assessments from all miners and mine laborers, when desired; and the United Mine Workers agree to protect operators where such checking is done. Sixth. It is understood and agreed that the arbitration above mentioned does not apply to shearing, or air, or elec- tric drilling machines ; but this does not prevent, by separate board of arbitration, the adjustment of a rate for shearing machines in the event of the miners and operators in the local districts not agreeing. Seventh. That the operators and the representatives of the outside labor meet in each scale or contract district prior to April 1, 1899, for the purpose of formulating a uniform price for outside labor, and where it is mutually agreed upon Ohio Joint Agreements, 1899 811 that the representatives of the United Mine Workers assist in making that scale. Eighth. It is also agreed that where day men wish to change to room work there shall be no unjust discrimination against them; and that no miner shall be unreasonably com- pelled to leave his room and do company work. Ninth. That where coal is shot off solid by the use of electric or air drills, the price paid for such work shall be 38 cents per ton, based on 40 cents per ton hand mining. The miner to furnish all supplies, the operator to furnish and keep drill or drills in repair. ILLINOIS COAL OPERATORS’ ASSOCIATION, S. H. Dalzell, President. C. L. SCROGGS, Secretary. UNITED MINE WORKERS OF ILLINOIS, J. M. Hunter, President. W. D. Ryan, Secretary. OPERATORS’ COMMITTEE, H. N. Taylor. Chas. E. Hull. MINERS’ COMMITTEE, Edward Cahill. Wm. Hefti. Joseph Pope, Secretary. UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA, John Mitchell, National President. OHIO OPERATORS SIGN. Columbus, Ohio, March 16, 1899. The Ohio operators signed the Pittsburg agreement. An all-day conference was held, at which the miners were rep- resented by National President Mitchell, National Secretary Pearce and State President Haskins. The operators were rep- resented by J. S. Morton, Thomas Johnson, C. L. Poston, S. A. McManigal, T. W. Guthrie and F. S. Brooks. The miners held out firmly for the Pittsburg agreement, and the operators were unable to gain the slightest concession. The operators contended that under the terms of the Chicago agreement, which was renewed by, the Pittsburg conference, the prices in the Pittsburg disrict were to be the same as those in the Hocking Valley. This part of the agreement had not been fulfilled, they urged, since the price for run of mine in the 812 United Mine Workers of America Pittsburg district was 5 cents below the price fixed for the Hocking Valley. It was upon this point that the operators based a protest in signing the scale, claiming that it was an injustice to them. The prices fixed for the next year in Ohio are 66 cents per ton for screened coal and 47 1-7 cents for run of mine. The agreement dates from April 1. CAMBRIDGE JOINT AGREEMENT. Cambridge, Ohio, March 17, 1899. Joint meeting of operators and miners held in this city in Trades Assembly hall, called to order by Sub-district Presi- dent James M. Stewart. Motion made and carried that James M. Stewart act as chairman and C. C. Henderson as secretary. The joint committee of five operators and five miners con- curred in the following resolutions, which were adopted as read: Resolved, That on and after April 1, 1899, eight hours shall constitute a day’s work, and all mines may operate six days per week. Resolved, That on and after April 1, 1899, the mines of this district shall begin work at 6 :30 a. m., work until 10 :30 a. m., taking one hour for noon, and beginning at 11 :30 a. m., continue until 3 :30 p- m., until April 1, 1900. Resolved, That, on and after April 1, 1899, all machines shall be fitted with front shoe not to exceed 2% inches in thickness, and machine men be required to cut coal level, and close to bottom as possible; and in no case shall thickness of bottom exceed 4 inches, except in case of “pots” or other extreme variations, and all machine men leaving more bottom than above must lift same, or it shall be lifted at his expense; and in case of sprags being left by a machine man that he be notified by loader, and if he refuse to remove the same, that the loader remove the sprag and be allowed 50 cents each for so doing. Said 50 cents to be deducted from machine runner, and where any machine man leaves six or more sprags in any one pay he shall be removed from machine, and his service disposed of as deemed best by general superintendent. Resolved, That no miner be permitted to load double turn or free turn under any circumstances. Resolved, That so far as possible all machine loaders be accorded two rooms for each two men, and the operators pledge themselves to provide two rooms for two men at the earliest possible moment. Joint Agreement District 12, 1899 813 Resolved, That we pay 1% cents per $1.00 for smithing in pickwork and nothing for machine loading. Accepted and signed on beha,lf of operators : The Wells Creek Coal Co., N. 0. Gray. JAS. W. Elsworth Coal Co., W. H. Davis, Gen. Supt. The Opperman Coal Co., By J. Opperman. Pioneer Coal Co., W. H. Davis. The Loomis-Moss Coal Co. For the miners : James M. Stewart, President. C. C. Henderson, Secretary-Treasurer. ' JOINT AGREEMENT SUB-DISTRICT 1, DISTRICT 12. Coal City, Illinois, March 23, 1899. Agreement entered into this day between the representa- tives of the United Mine Workers of America, party of the first part, and the undersigned operators of the Wilmington coal field, known as Sub-district No. 1, party of the second part, in joint convention assembled, towit; 1. That the household coal supplied to workmen shall be at the rate of one dollar and thirty-five cents per ton of 2,000 pounds at the mines, and the miners to have the option of sending any teamster for their coal. 2. Houses owned by the companies shall be rented to mine workers at the rate of one dollar per room per month. 3. That the companies agree to furnish the necessary props, cap-pieces and rails at the room face. 4. That the tool sharpener shall be on duty to sharpen all tools during the working hours of each shift. 5. That all pit cars be put in proper condition. 6. That when a man has to leave his work he shall be hoisted out of said shaft when there is no coal at the shaft bottom. 7. That no coal be hoisted after the shaft quits except in actual case of emergency. This will not interfere with the hoisting of coal by the night shift. 8. That in case of any local trouble arising at any shaft the pit committee and the pit boss of said shaft shall be em- powered to adjust such grievances, and in case of their dis- agreement it shall be referred to the superintendent of the company and the president of their local union; but should they fail to adjust the matter pending, the case or cases shall be referred to the officials of the company concerned and the state officers of the United Mine Workers of America, in writ- ing, for adjustment, and in all cases the miners and the parties involved must continue to work pending investigation and an 814 United Mine Workers of America adjustment until a final decision is reached in the manner above set forth. 9. That men drivers be paid the scale price of one dollar and seventy-five cents and all below this scale shall receive an advance of 5 cents per day over present prices. 10. That the companies furnish suitable conveyances and bandages for the removal of injured workmen from the shaft to their homes. 11. That all miners be allowed their turn of empty cars to load dirt in the daytime. 12. That rolls and deficient work be settled by the pit boss and men involved and if performed by the shift, scale prices shall be paid. 13. That all outside laborers receive an advance of 5 cents per day of eight hours over present prices paid. 14. That a heading in the Wilmin^on field shall be known as a road driven in the solid and putting in rooms at regular intervals, but does not cut off rooms. 15. That a cross road in the Wilmington field shall be known as a road driven across the working face of rooms, cutting them off and putting them in anew. 16. That a straight place in the Wilmington field shall be known as a road from which only cross roads and headings, as above described, are turned, and shall not be paid extra tonnage. 17. That in cases where it is necessary to turn one room off another room (other than a cross road, heading or straight place), cross road prices shall not be paid; but providing that it is necessary to turn another room off room so turned, it shall then be declared a cross road, and be paid extra tonnage as such from second switch cross roads and headings as above described, to be paid nine (9) cents per ton extra, and turning a branch and putting in a shanty complete, four dol- lars and fifty cents ($4.50) shall be paid, and also when last room on any cross road or heading shall have been turned the extra tonnage shall cease. 18. That in cases where sulphur balls. Black Jack or other impurities are sent up by a miner, it shall be the duty of the trimmer on the car to call the attention of the checkweighman and weigh boss to the same; if the amount of impurities of any kind is small the miner shall be notified by the weigh boss and checkweighman, also marking sulphur on the sheet. The second time the miner sends up unmarketable coal he shall be docked the whole car and the proceeds of the same shall be paid to the Miners’ Accident Association, provided, after this second offense the miner continues to send up im- purities, the weighman and checkman shall notify the superin- Joint Agreement Indiana, 1899 815 tendent of the company and the miner shall be discharged. This agreement to be in force April 1, 1899, and shall con- tinue until and including March 31, 1900, Operators’ Committee: Big 4 Wilmington Coal Co., H. N. Taylor, General Manager. Wm.'Harkes. Wilmington Coal Mining and Mfg. Co., Jas. Dalzell, Treasurer. Star Coal Company of Streator, III., C. H. Rathbun, Secretary. Chicago, Wilmington and Vermillion Coal Co., A. L. Sweet, President. Wilmington Star Mining Co., M. D. Buchanan, President. Braceville Coal Co., B. Wightman, Superintendent. Wm. Maltby. Miners : Percival CbARK, President Sub-district Board No. 1 of District 12, U. M, W. of A. J. W. Anderson, Secretary Sub-district Board No. 1. William E. Smith, Member of State Executive Board of Illinois. W. D. Ryan, Secretary and Treasurer, U. M. W. of A. AGREEMENT BETWEEN MINERS AND OPERATORS OF DISTRICT NO. 11, 1899. The following agreement entered into in the joint state convention at Terre Haute, Indiana, March 29, 1899, by and between the bituminous operators and miners of the state, witnesseth : First — That the declaration of the contract by and between the operators of the competitive coal fields and the United Mine Workers of America, entered into at Chicago, Illinois, January 26, 1898, and at Columbus, Ohio, March 10, 1898, and re-affirmed at Pittsburg, Pa., January 24, 1899, be and 816 United Mine Workers of America hereby are, re-affirmed in the identical terms therein em- ployed. Second — That further details and scale of prices for pick and machine mining in the State of Indiana for one year, beginning April 1, 1899, shall be as follows : PICK MINING. Yardage — In entries 7 to 9 feet wide, $1.37 ; in entries 12 feet, price shall be five-eighths of narrow work, or 851/2 cents. Wide entries shall not exceed 12 feet, it being under- stood that this applies to entry work only. Break-throughs — Break-throughs in entries shall be paid for at entry price. Break-throughs between rooms, when sheared or blocked, shall be paid for at entry price, but no break-throughs shall be driven without the consent of the operator. Nothing herein shall interfere with strict compli- ance with the law governing break-throughs. Room Turning — Room turning, $3.30. Room necks to be driven 12 feet in, and widened at an agle of 45 degrees, when so desired by operator. Any distance in excess of above shall be paid for proportionately. MACHINE WORK. Yardage — In entries 7 to 9 feet wide, 98 cents ; in entries 12 feet, five-eighths of price for narrow entries, or 61 cents. When the machine runners in 12-foot entries are paid by the day, and entry is not sheared, the shooters and loaders shall be paid two-thirds of the yardage. It is understood that this applies to entry work only. Break-throughs — Break-throughs between entries, same as entry price. Break-throughs between rooms shall be paid for at entry price when similarly driven. This applies to width and not to methc^l of mining. Room Turning — Room turning, $2,471^. Room necks to be driven 12 feet in and widened at an angle of 45 degrees, when so desired by operators. Any distance in excess of the above shall be paid for proportionately. When room necks are driven 12 feet wide price shall be five-eighths of regular price, or $1.54%. Day Work Punching Machines — Machine cutting, when paid for by the day, shall be for cutter, $2.35 ; helper, $1.85. Day Work Chain or Cutter Bar Machine — When paid by the day shall be ; Cutter, $2.35 ; helper, $2.11. It being under- stood that a day’s work shall not be less than twenty-seven cuts. All cuts in excess of twenty-seven shall be paid for proportionately. Joint Agreement Indiana, 1899 817 Price Per Ton for Machine Mining — When paid for by the ton the price of coal mined with machines shall be three- quarters of the price paid for pich-mined coal, or 49i/2 cents. The prices per ton after chain machines shall remain the same at the respective mines during the year ending April 1, 1899. Blacksmithing — The price of blacksmithing shall be one and one-quarter cents on the dollar, excepting after chain machines, where no blacksmithing shall be charged. GENERAL. It is further agreed that if any differences arise between the operators and the miners at any pit, a settlement shall be arrived at without stopping work. If the parties immediately affected can not reach an adjustment between themselves, the question shall be referred without delay to a board of arbitra- tion consisting of two operators selected by the operators in- terested and two miners selected by District No. 11, United Mine Workers of America- In event of those four being unable to reach a decision, they shall select a fifth man, and the decision of a board so constituted shall be final, but no miner or operator interested in the differences shall be a member of said board. That where the coal is paid for mine-run or on screened coal basis, it shall be mined in a careful, workmanlike manner, and when loaded on the miner’s car it shall, as nearly as pos- sible, be free from slate, bone coal, sulphur and other im- purities. Payment for all labor shall be made twice a month, not later than the 10th and 25th of each month. It is further agreed that the operators shall offer no ob- jection to the check-off for checkweighman and for dues for the federation, provided that no check-off shall be made against any person until he shall have first given his consent in writ- ing to his employer. This applies to all underground day work, as well as miners. The time of beginning work in the morning and the length of intermission at noon shall be considered a local question. RESOLUTIONS. Resolved, That while the number of stoppages for various causes during the past year has decreased, it is still the opinion of both miners and operators that sufficient attention has not been paid by either side’ to the agreement — ^“that if any differ- ences arise between the operators and the miners at any pit a settlement shall be arrived at without stopping of work.” 818 United Mine Workers of America It is the unanimous opinion of both miners and operators that this agreement should be strictly observed by both. We wish particularly to call attention to the fact that all such differ- ences, even in the event of stoppage, have been settled by arbitration and work resumed, and had the agreement been strictly observed, these stoppages would not have occurred, the same settlement would have been secured, and both miners and operators would have been saved the heavy losses caused by these stoppages. That these resolutions be compiled in the form of a con- tract, and signed by the President and Secretary of the United Mine Workers of America, representing District No. 11, and the President and Secretary of the Bituminous Coal Opera- tors’ Association of Indiana, that they be printed and a copy sent to each and every mine and posted. In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names this 30th day of March, 1899. W. D. Van Horn, President, United Mine Workers of America, District 11. Attest : J. H. Kennedy, Secretary. J. Smith Talley, President, Bituminous Coal Operators’ Association of Indiana. Attest: J. W. Landrum, Secretary. BEAVER VALLEY, PITTSBURG DISTRICT, SCALE. April 1st, 1899 to March 31st, 1900, agreed to at joint con- ference of operators and miners. Wampum, May 10, 1899. One inch screen coal, per ton of 2,000 pounds $0.71 Run of mine, per ton of 2,000 pounds •47 1-3 Entries 7 feet wide, coal to company, per yard 2.50 Wet entries, 7 feet wide, coal to company, per yard, extra .25 Double shift entries, 7 feet wide, coal to company, per yard, extra .25 Air courses, where bottom is taken up, per yard 1.00 Air courses, where bottom is not taken up, per yard .75 Room-turning, neck not to exceed 21 feet 3.00 Break-throughs between rooms, per yard .65 Where bone coal comes do^\^l from 1% to 6 inches in thickness, extra per ton -05 Pick sharpening shall be, per ton — -01 Ingersoll Machine Scale one-inch screen Undercutting in rooms, per ton -16 1-4 Loading in rooms, per ton -35 1-2 Undercutting, all narrow work, jjer ton 16 9-10 and 20c per yard extra Loading, all narrow work, per ton -45 1-2 Narrow work includes entries, air courses, room-turning and break-throughs. Joint Agreement, Tennessee, 1899 819 Signed by Operators : H. K. Hartsuff, Matthew Gunton, R. H. Mehard. Miners’ Committee : Sam Frye, A. S. Hill, Hugh Jackson, Dan F. Lutz, Alex. Young, Wm. Condron, Geo. Galbreath, R. McMillan, Approved May 11, 1899: P. Dolan, President, Wm. Dodds, Sec.-Treas., District No. 5, U. M. W. of A. JOINT CONVENTION, COAL CREEK, TENNESSEE. Convention called to order with President T. J. Smith in chair. T. J. Smith was elected chairman of joint convention. J. R. Wooldridge was elected secretary of operators; J. S. Mc- Cracken was elected secretary of miners. By motion Major E. C. Camp was allowed the floor to read his document on Coal Creek conditions, which paper was tabled by convention. The scale was read. On motion the chair appointed Col. T. H. Heald, Hywell Davies and W. T. Lewis as scale commit- tee for operators, to meet miners’ scale committee. Convention adjourned. Convention called to order at 2 p. m. by chair. Operators’ proposition was presented to convention, which referred back to scale committee for their further consid- eration. Convention was declared adjourned till 8 p. m. by chair- Called to order by Chairman Smith. Scale committee reported. Operators offered a 10 per cent July 27, 1899. AFTERNOON SESSION. man. NIGHT SESSION. 820 United Mine Workers of America advance all round, with a further advance of 2^ per cent — advance to be left to arbitration. Moved and carried, that we accept the advance of 10 per cent, all round, and leave 2 i /2 per cent to arbitration. Moved that the vote be made unanimous. Carried. Signed on behalf of Operators : Col. T. H. Heald, W. T. Lewis. Hywell Davies, J. R. Wooldridge, Secretary. For the Miners: J. W. Howe. W. K. Smith. Joe Woods. G. W. Eustler. H. G. Bryant. J. S. Bell, Dist. Ex. Board Member. W. R. Fairley, Natl. Ex. Bd. Member. T. J. Smith, Pres., District 19. J. S. McCracken, Secy.-Treas. Convention adjourned to meet on the last Thursday in July, 1900, to formulate a new scale. T. J. Smith, Chairman. J. S. McCracken, Secy, for Miners. J. R. Wooldridge, Secy, for Operators. LATER AGREEMENT OF ARBITRATORS. We, the undersigned arbitrators, appointed by the Coal Creek convention, hereby agree to grant the additional 2i/^ per cent, making a total advance of twelve and one-half (12%) per cent on the price in effect before the said Coal Creek con- vention went into effect, August 1, 1899. This modification regarding the date of said 2% per cent going into effect November 1, 1899, is mutually agreed in order to dispense with the necessity of submitting the case to a referee. T. H. Heald. Hywell Davies, Joint Agreement at Witt, Illinois 821 Approved: Arthur Groves, Secretary. M. S. Elliott. Joe Vasey,. J. S. McCracken, Secy.-Treas. Dist. 19. W. R. Fairley, Natl. Board Member, United Mine Workers of America. Respectfully yours, J. S. McCracken. JOINT AGREEMENT IN DISTRICT 2, 1899. It is hereby understood and agreed by and between the officers representing the Central Pennsylvania mining district, being designated as District No. 2, and the operators of the Beech Creek region; that in consideration of the said opera- tors paying on the 1st of August, 1899, and thereafter, five- ninths (5-9) for loading after machines of the present pick mining price, that is, fifty (50) cents per gross ton for pick mining and twenty-seven and one-half ( 271 / 2 ) cents per gross ton for loading after machines. This basis of prices it is hereby agreed on the part of the officers of the said Central Pennsylvania Mining District No. 2, shall continue for one year from the 1st day of August, 1899, and be binding upon the miners and operators of the Beech Creek region when signed by the operators and ratified by the several bank committees located at each of the mines involved in this agreement, and no operator shall be bound to pay this price unless this agreement is accepted and ratified by the bank committees at each mine. It being further understood that if all the machine opera- tors in said region do not consent to this agreement by the 1st of August, 1899, as to the remainder of the machine operators who continue and carry out the terms implied herein, this con- tract shall in that event not extend longer than April 1, 1900, but if signed on or before the 1st day of August next, then to continue one year as stated above. William B. Wilson. Bernard Rice. Richard Gilbert. The Bloomington Mining Co., by Rembrant Peale, G. M. Sommerville & Buchanan. Pardee Collieries, per W. C. L. Patton Coal Co., per Jas. Kerr, President. Duncan & Spangler. Clearfield, Pennsylvania, July 3, 1899. 822 United Mine Workers of America JOINT AGREEMENT AT WITT, ILLINOIS, This agreement, made and entered into this 23rd day of August, 1899, between the Montgomery Coal Company and the United Mine Workers, witnesseth: The Montgomery Coal Company hereby agrees to recog- nize the United Mine Workers and agrees to pay the scale as provided for in the several agreements made for the year end- ing March 31, 1900, and covering the district where the mine of the first party is located. Also for outside labor as follows: Dumpers, $1.75; dumpers’ helpers, $1.50; firemen, $1.75; blacksmiths, $2.00; blacksmith’s helpers, $1.75; head car trimmer, $1.75; head car trimmer’s helper, $1.50; yard men, $1.50 ; all other unskilled labor, $1.50. The following to be paid for narrow work : Width, feet Price, per yard All entries over 12 feet and up to 18 feet, inclusive, shall decrease at the ratio of 71/2 cents per foot. That no miner or other person shall shoot any coal by the day and all miners shall shoot and load their own coal. That all cross cuts shall be paid the same yardage as entry work, and there shall be a track put in cross cuts when de- sired by the person doing the same. That a miner shall re- ceive 25 cents for every cross bar he puts up. That all dead work shall be paid for per hour as provided in the Pittsburg agreement. That the price of powder shall be $1.75 per keg and 45 cents per gallon for oil. The company agrees to pay their employes semi-monthljL viz. : The first and fifteenth of each month, and when pay day falls on Sunday the employes will be paid the preceding Sat- urday or the following Monday, the company to hold only fif- teen days’ pay back at any time. The company will take back in its employ all the men who were in the employ on the 31st of March, 1899. And it is agreed that the company shall be allowed to take back into its employ all day men on top who were in its em- ploy on March 31st, provided said day men will consent to join the local union and the said Miners’ Union agrees to admit said employes on proper application. Any miner or other employe absenting himself from his 6 8 10 12 $1.68% 1.533/4 1.38 1.23 Anthracite Wage Agreement, 1899 823 regular employment for two days in succession without suffi- cient cause shall be liable to discharge. The miners shall load their coal free from rock, sulphur and other foreign matter as far as possible. Three successive violations of this rule will render the party liable to discharge. The work in the mine shall be done according to the direc- tions given by the pit boss and under his immediate super- vision and control. The pit committee shall be composed of men actually em- ployed in the mine. The Montgomery Coal Co., Per G. W. Parsley, Supt. John M. Hunter, State President, United Mine Workers of America. W. R. Russell, Vice-President. W. D. Ryan, Secretary. ANTHRACITE WAGE AGREEMENT, DECEMBER 11, 1899. Schedule of prices and wages agreed upon by the manager and superintendent of the Susquehanna Coal Company and committee of employees. Coal and Goal Measurements. Section 1. Size of car (same as before) with six inches of topping at the breaker making a total of ninety cubic feet of coal to the Nanticoke car and ninety-six cubic feet to the Glen Lyon car. Price of car $1.20 and $1.02. Check docking boss be allowed and to be paid by the workmen. A gauge to be erected to determine the height of car. The check docking boss shall have the power to shop all cars that are out of shape and also agreed that the company will put a cross bar on the cars, if they, after investigation with a committee of em- ployees, deem it advisable. 500 pounds rock or slate to be al- lowed in car without the miner being stopped, and miner to be stopped one day for each 100 pounds over the 500. Plugs. Sec. 2. Agreed to pay ten cents a car extra after a plug is driven thirty feet and whenever the company can to their and miners’ advantage they will put in a road, and where the con- ditions are such that it is impossible to make a day’s wages the company is willing to make a fair allowance for the same. Gangways. Sec. 3. Twelve to ’fourteen feet wide, $2.54 per yard; over fourteen to eighteen feet, $1.97 per yard ; breasts under twenty-four feet but over eighteen, $1.00 per yard. 824 United Mine Workers of America Cross Headings. Sec. 4. Cross headings shall be driven between chute breasts. Cross headings, $1.97 per yard. Rock Measurements. Sec. 1. Top and bottom rock in Red Ash ten cents per lineal yard for every inch in thickness (sand rock excepted) all other veins seven and one-half cents per lineal yard for every inch in thickness (sand rock excepted). Sec. 2. Bony to be paid for according to the judgment of the bosses. Rock Cleaning and Unloading. Section 1. Cleaning gob, thirty-five cents per lineal yard, where extra heavy will be paid accordingly ; if not satisfactory the company will clean it. Sec. 2. Unloading rock, twenty-five cents per car, and if not satisfactory to the miner, company hands will unload it. Sec. 3. Where directed to load rock in cars miner to be paid twenty-five cents for each and every car. Timber Props and Chutes. Section 1. Propping and lagging and extra propping, forty-four cents per prop. Sec. 2. Gangway timbers, $2.54 per set; branch timber where collar is fourteen feet long, $5.08 ; breast timber, $1.81 per set; branch timber in breast fourteen feet long, $3.62 per set; flats, $1.32. Cogging to be judged as to its value. Sec. 3. Platforms to be built by company hands; chutes twenty-five cents per length of sheet iron. Miscellaneous. Section 1. Laying road outside of miner’s place, twenty- five cents per yard. Where company can get tracklayers to lay road they will do so. Sec. 2. The miner will keep his road in repair from the last plug in. Sec. 3. Company to contract with miner for cleaning caves or pay a day’s wages for the same. Sec. 4. Not more than one miner shall be compelled to work in the same place on the same shift. Sec. 5. Bailing water to be done by company hands. Sec. 6. That work heretofore known as consideration work be paid by contract or day’s wages. Fractional part of all measurements to be paid for. Anthracite Wage Agreement, 1899 825 Approved: Susquehanna Coal Company, Per John H. Tonkin, Superintendent. « Approved : Henry M. Williams, John Price, Cornelius J. Gallagher, T. D. Nichols, Frank Miller, Michl Wyrzernig, Committee. Approved: Morris Williams, Manager. SUSQUEHANNA COAL COMPANY. Scale of wages adopted December 11, 1899. Fire Boss : $2.47 and $2.66 Driver Boss 1.92 Company Miner 2.23 Company Miner’s Laborer 1.70 Track Layer 2.23 Track Layer’s Helper 1.75 Shaft Repairman 2.23 Shaft Repairman’s Flelper 1.70 Timberman 2.23 Timberman’s Helper 1.70 Carpenter or Doormaker 2.00 Carpenter or Doormaker’s Helper 1.70 Brattice Man 2.00 Bratticeman’s Helper 1.54 Head Runner 1.75 Runner 1.60 Runner and Driver 1.54 Head Footman of Shaft (Oil Clothes) 1.80 Head Footman of Shaft, Helper 1.70 Headman Inside Shaft 1.75 Headman’s Helper, Inside Shaft 1.70 Head Footman of Slope 1.70 Head Footman of Slope, Helper 1.65 Headman of Slope 1.70 Plane Runner 1.70 Footman of Plane 1.60 Bellman 1.25 Single Mule Driver 1.25 Single Mule Driver at Foot of Shaft 1.50 Two-Mule Driver 1.45 Three-Mule Driver 1.65 Door Boy .80 Mason 1.75 Mason’s Helper 1.60 Road and Slope Cleaners 1.60 Couplers and Rat Catchersl 1.00 Pump Runner 1.54 and 1.80 Stableman 1.54 Stableman’s Helper : 1.45 826 United Mine Workeks of America Pipemaii 1.75 Water Bailer 1.54 and 1.60 Unloading Roek : 1.45 and 1.54 Slate Pickers .50 and up Shaft Headman (Outside) 1.60 Ph reman 1.70 All the above are supposed to be first class men and boys. Aged and disabled men for attending doors will be paid from $1.00 to $1.10 per day. Inexperienced, aged and disabled men for cleaning roads, gobs and such other common work, such as they can do, to be paid according to their worth, from $1.25 to $1.50 per day. JELLICO DISTRICT SCALE PRICES — DISTRICT 19. 1893-4 1894-5 1895-6 : 1896-7 1897-8 1898-9 Screened lump, per ton, High coal 3 ft. 6 in. and over $ .75 .$ .75 $ .55 $ .55 $ .52 $ .52 Medium coal, per ton, Medium coal. 3 ft. 3 in .80 .80 .60 .60 .57 .57 Locv coal, per ton. Low coal under 3 ft. 3 in .85 .85 .65 .65 .62 .62 2 ft. 6 in. to 2 ft. 9 in .70 .70 .67 .67 Under 2 ft. 6 in__ .75 .75 .72 .72 Slate entry, per yard 2.50 2.50 2.15 2.15 1.90 1.90 When bottom is blasted, per yd 3.00 3.00 2.65 2.65 2.40 2.40 Rock top and slate bottom 3.05 3.05 Rock top and sandstone entries, per yard 3.50 3.50 3.05 3.05 2.65 2.65 Airways, per yard 1.00 1.00 .87% .87% .80 .80 WHien slate parting occurs and neither top or bottom is blast- ed, per yard Turning room, liigli coal 1.50 1.50 1.30 1.30 1.15 1.15 2.50 2.50 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 Turning rooms, medium coal 2.75 2.75 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.25 Turning rooms, low coal 3.00 3.00 2.50 2.50 2.50 2.50 Turning rooms, double 4.50 4.50 3.75 3.75 3.75 3.75 Drum man, per hr. and per day •1"V2 .17% .15% .15% 1.50 1.50 Chute and Knuckle men, per liour and per day .15 .15 .13 .13 1.30 1.30 Head Trackman, per hour and per day .22 .22 .19% .19% 1.75 1.75 Assistant Trackman, per hour and per day .17% .17% .15% .15% 1.40 1.40 Drivers, per hour and per day_ .17% .17% .15% .15% 1.40 1.40 Spike team drivers, per hour and per day .20 .20 .17% .17% 1.60 1.60 ( .05 .05 .04% .04% .50 .50 Trappers, per hour and per day ) ( .07% to .07% to .05% to .05% ( .05 .05 ■04%2 .04% — — Oilers, per hour / to 1 .07% to .07 V2 to .05% to .05% Coupler, per hour and per day_ .12% .12% .11 .11 1.00 1.00 Furnace man, per hour and per day ,15 .15 .13 .13 1.10 1.10 Pratt, Ala., Wage Scale, 1897-1899 827 Drivers, boy Pushers, men Pushers, boys Blacksmith, per day ' Outside labor, per day Gin men and muckers, inside, per day . 10 % . 10 % .15 .15 .10 .10 1.75 1.75 1.00 1.00 1.30 1.30 • DISTRICT 20, ALABAMA — PRATT WAGE SCALE, 1892-1895. 1892 1893 1894 1895 From April 12 Mining Run-of-Mine $ .45 $ .45 $ .37% $ .37% Heading 2.25 2.25 2.25 1.90 Air Course 1.00 1.00 1.00 .95 Day Wage Scale. 1892 1893 1894 1895 Drivers .$1.10-1.15 $1.10-1.15 $1.10-1.15 $1.10 Trackmen : 1.95 1.85 Trackmen Helpers 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 Trappers .75 .65 Inside Engineers 1.50 Outside Engineers 62.50 per month Slope Chainers 1.25 1.20 Steam Pumpers 1.15 1.15 Furnace Firemen 1.10 1.05 Slope Repairmen 1.90 1.60 Dumpers 1.10 1.10 Sealers 1.00 1.00 Tip Middlemen- 1.00 1.00 Coupler .75 .65 Greaser .75 .65 Pin Puller 1.15 1.15 R. R. Car Loader 1.05 1.05 Blacksmith 2.00 2.00 Blacksmith Helpers 1.15 1.15 Miner on Company Work 2.25 1.96 Stable Men 1.00 1.00 828 United Mine Workers of America PRATT WAGE SCALE. May 10, 1897 to July 1, 1898. July 1, 1898 to March 1, 1899. March 1, 1899 to April 1. 1899. April 1, 1899 to May 1, 1899. May 1. 1899 to June 1, 1899. June 1, 1899 to July 1, 1899. July 1. 1899 to August 1, 1899. August 1, 1899 to Juno 30. 1900. $ .374 $ .40 $ .424 $ .45 $ .474 $ .50 $ .524 $ .55 2.00 2.17 2.33 2.50 2.67 2.834 2.974 3.114 2.35 2.57 2.78 3.00 3.22 3.434 3.604 3.774 .85 .90 .95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.154 1.21 .40 .43 .47 .50 .534 .56 2-3 .594 .62 .85 .90 .95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.154 1.21 .45 .45 .45 .45 .45 .524 .55 1.75 1.92 2.08 2.25 2.41 2-3 2.58 1-3 2.71 2.84 .85 .90 .95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.154 1.21 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.15 ].15 1.15 1.15 1.274 1.274 1.50 1.58 1.85 1.88 1.92 1.95 1.98 1-3 2.01 2-3 2.25 2.364 1.10 1.12 1.13 1.15 1.16 1-3 1.17 2-3 1.47 1.54 .65 .68 .72 .75 .78 1-3 .81 2-3 .90 .934 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.70 1.70 1.70 1.70 62.50 62.50 62.50 62..50 68.75 68.75 68.75 68.75 1.20 1.22 1.23 1.25 1.26 2-3 1.28 1-3 1.60 1.671 1.20 1.22 1.23 1.25 1.26 2-3 1.28 1-3 1.60 1.671 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.274 1.274 1.274 1.274 1.00 1.02 1.03 1.05 1.06 2-3 1.26 1.26 1.32 1.60 1.70 1.80 1.90 2.00 2.23 2.23 2.331 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.374 1.374 1.374 1.374 45.00 45.00 45.00 45.00 49.50 49.50 49.50 49.50 40.00 40.00 40.00 40.00 44.00 44.00 44.00 44.00 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.20 1.20 1.37 1.43 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.10 1.10 1.26 1.32 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.10 1.10 1.26 1.32 .75 .75 .75 .75 .85 .85 .95 .99 .75 .75 .75 .75 .85 .85 .95 .99 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.274 1.274 1.42 1.484 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.15 1.15 1.31 1.374 2.00 2.05 2.10 2.15 2.20 2.25 2.69 2.8 1; 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.274 1.274 1.50 1.58 1.50 1.63 1.85 1.90 1.95 [ 2.00 2.14 2.24 1.75 1.80 2.36 2.474 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 2.00 2.13 2.27 2.40 2.53 2.67 2.80 2.93 Mining Run of Mine _ Main Slope 8' \vide__ Main Slope 12' wide__ Main SlopeA-CNarrow Main SlopeA-C20'wide Main Slope Cut Thru. Room Cut Thru Room CutThruNarrow Butt Heading Turning Rooms Drivers Trackmen Boss Trackmen Helpers Trappers : Slope Chainers Vent. Fur. Firemen— Slope Repairmen Boiler Firemen Dumpers Scalers Tip. Middlemen Coupler Greaser Pin Puller R. R. Car Loader Blacksmith Blacksmith Helper _ Carpenter Helper Carpenter Stablemen Note — Above table shows wages per day, except where specified per month. Hocking Valley Scale, 1892-1900 829 April, 1898 to Apr. 1900 1'- 1 CO LO O lO O CO CO CO 1— ' LO o VO VO VO lO o:> t>» i-^ i-- VO 00 >-* O ■-' Hm t- Oi 05 r- 1 ® ’"1 G'j ,-^M rHiOJ r-}J1 ,-H o t- 1^ O lO CO Ol fM t-- LO r^'N 1 CO 1 1 HN '-C'M VO 03 CM O £>• VO VO O r-»N 03 VO VO CM 3^ O o ^ CM r^V r-<01 lO -H 00 H< C5 o> cs 1 o ’"!. »-<03 r-- VO O 1" 1^ O lHf-l 1-- o t— VO 00 I-H o r- -- r _j h HPI HfM r-;ol ut) Ci I-- o lO CO CO CO CO uo 1 t-- 1 CO 1 |- CO o o o =2 o S rH ^ 03 m- r-H ^ 03 CO ^ -H O O r- 1 June, 1895, t Oct., 18 GO f-4W r^1 .-H co' r- 1'- O ic CO 03 03 r- uo ‘ H H *03* 1-^ CO rH 1-«M Htl VO 03 CM O VO VO O * hH O CO r-vM 03 VO VO 03 o O •-[ r-C-NrH;^^! ^ CM ,-(Hj r^l r-«M r- 'h ^ 'io ^ 2 ; K U O K t, o o ffi o 2 I 2; - pH c 3 cti l>i X a; Sc'bi) O . S' n! ; S P , ~ .^1 r 0) HH - i lo ^ 5 - ^ S g ;:§ : -f ffi M fcc bS’= s t >>-5 2 g <: Q c» H fc S 0 O ? S mSpwp^h hhho !« <; I Q I « I H I fp I K I O CO m S P O . = X C3 C^hPl 0) S ^ Q ® GO ® :3 Eh g; O ^ 5 . O ^ q] HO - 0 ^ c> bJD S S^oo t— I ro Eh cC ci R ^ O o> hS o •=: ■" B = i' £ fi^ <; o „ ®P§ W 2 ^ H, O +H o o o c (i, P 4 H to 9 ^ S S s , ' C M _ S£ J 't s ,rO -p= ® 'S 'C B -S W) c'lf^wl.S I, ci ^ ;t2 »v-S o _, cd C3 '*^H-' — p^ 5 -« kh'^StG) tjD fcJDpq ^ Ph (^ .:: o a, " ^ § § c § ^^ £ £ ■B 2 >.^^■'■> 13 '“'^." h 5 Is hh SP ^ cos^/>.S—SS--t^ hc2h cs’S'^^'SS S = ^ ojOJoj-rSrsjOM pm^pqpqj Qqc^ 830 United Mine Workers of America Joint partnership or collective bargaining between coal operators and coal miners when trying to adjust vexed prob- lems, is the best solution yet devised. Continue the plan — both will profit by the joint exertion multiplied. END OF VOLUME 2. LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS ' Pages CHEIS EVANS, FEONTISPIECE. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOAED, UNITED MINE WOEKEES OF AMEEICA 1890 24 CHAETEE OF AFFILIATION WITH AMEEICAN FEDEEATION OF LABOE 28 JOHN B. EAE, NATIONAL PEESIDENT, 1890-189.1 30 W. H. TUENEE, NATIONAL VICE-PEESIDENT, 1890 31 JOHN McBEIDE, NATIONAL PEESIDENT, 1892-93-94 264 PATEICK McBEYDE, NATIONAL SECEETAEY, 1891-2-3-4-5 265 P. H. PENNA, NATIONAL PEESIDENT, 1895-96 420 W. C. PEAECE, NATIONAL SECEETAEY, ELECTED 1896 422 M. D. EATCHFOED, NATIONAL PEESIDENT, 1897-98 472 JOHN KANE, EDITOE JOUENAL, 1891-2-3-4-5-6; VICE PEESI- DENT, 1897 479 NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOAED, 1897 480 MUEDEE SCENE AT VIEDEN, ILLINOIS, OCTOBEE 12, 1898 607 GOVEENOE TANNEE OF ILLINOIS 609 KANE MONUMENT 611 JOHN MITCHELL, NATIONAL PEESIDENT, ELECTED 1899 650 T. W. DAVIS, EDITOE JOUENAL, 1897-98; VICE-PEESIDENT, 1899 651 W. C. SCOTT, NATIONAL OEGANIZEE, 1897-98; EDITOE JOUE- NAL, 1899-1900 740 NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOAED MEMBEES, 1899 764 INDEX Pages Preface 1-2 Indiana Miners First to Move as a Eenovation, January 1, 1890 3 Ohio Miners in Convention as District 10 National Progressive Union for Eeform, January 20, 1890 4 Address of President Evans. Secretary Ebenezer Levds’ Eeport Highly Commended 5-8 Officers Elected for District No. 10 National Progressive Union . 9 Convention of National Progressive Union January 22, 1890, with Jolin McBride’s Eecommendations as President. Secretary Patrick Mc- Bryde’s Eeport, and Telegrams from President Gompers of tlie A. of L., and Secretary Wm. Martin of the Iron and Steel Workers’ Association 10-11 Convention of National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, with Letter of Master Workman Powderly, and Preparations for Joint Meeting 12 Joint Convention Proceedings of National District Assembly 135, Knights of Labor, and National Progressive Union 13-17 Preamble and Constitution of the United Mine Workers of America 18-22 Constitution of National Trades Assembly 135, Knights of Labor 23 Officers Elected and Scale of Prices Eeported by Committee 24-26 Machine Mining Scale Eeported 27 Picture of United Mine Workers’ Charter of Affiliation with the Ameri- can Federation of Labor .. 28 Names of Charter Members and A. F. of L. Officers Granting It 29 831 Pages Portraits of First President, Jolin B. Rae, and Vice-President, William H. Turner, of the United Mine Workers of America 30-31 Facsimile of Charter Conditions, Granted January 25, 1890 32 Indiana Miners’ Convention, February 25, 1890, and Illinois Miners’ Con- vention, March 4, 1890 33 Pittsburg Railroad and River Miners in Conventions Form District 5, United Mine Workers of America, March 12 and 25, 1890 34 Ohio Miners’ Convention of National Trades Assembly 135, K. of L., and District 10 of the National Progressive Union, April 14, 1890 35-39 West Virginia Convention, April 21, 1890 40 W. B. Wilson of Blossburg, Pa., at Lonaconing, Md., and Resignation of Secretary Ebenezer Lewis of the Ohio Miners 41 Resignation of Secretary Robert Watchorn 42 Convention of District 6, U. M. W. of A., January 20, 1891 43 Names of Delegates Present 44-45 Address of President John P. Jones 46-52 Reports of Secretary W. C. Pearce and Auditors 1 53 Run of Mine Coal and Machine Mining Prices 54 Committee on Defense Fund, and Amendments to Constitution 55-56 Resolution on Exclusion of Children Under 14 Years of Age from Mines and Factories 57 Officers Elected and Adjournment of the Convention 58 First National Annual Convention of the United Mine Workers of Amer- ica, February 10, 1891 52-60 Report of Committee on Credentials, with Names of Delegates and Seats Contested 61-63 Address of President John B. Rae 64—66 Report of Secretary Robert Watchorn 67—70 Committees Appointed and Report of Committee on Rules 71-72 Telegrams from Harry B. Layton, Lucian Saniel and Chris Evans 73-74 Convention Proceedings Continued 75—89 National Constitution in Part for 1891 90-92 Election of Officers and Adjournment District 11 Convention, March 3, 1891 93 Connellsville Coke Struggle and Appeal to Union Labor 94-95 Miners’ National Convention at Pittsburg, Pa., April 6, 1891 96-101 Operators’ and Miners’ Joint Conference in Allegheny Court House 102 Miners’ and Operators’ Delegates Present 103—104 Eight Hours First Important Question Discussed 105-107 Joint Conference Disagrees and Adjourns. The Miners’ Demands 108 First Annual Convention, District 17, April 14, 1891 109-113 Official Circular on Eight-Hour Workday, April 17, 1891 114-116 Illinois Miners’ Convention, April 23, 1891 117-119 Full Text of Illinois Weekly Pay Law, 1891 120-121 Reasons Given for Deferring the Movement for Eight Hours 122-126 Special Convention of Ohio Miners, April 30, 1891, and Names of Dele- gates Present 127 Remarks of President J. P. Jones and Vice-President Jchn Nugent to Delegates and Resolution Indorsing the Declaring Off for the Time Being the Movement for An Eight-Hour Workday 128-130 Pittsburg Miners’ Special Convention and Delegates Seated, April 30, 1891 131 Address of President McLaughlin 132-133 Proceedings of Pittsburg Miners’ Special Convention 134-136 Iowa and Coke Workers of Pennsylvania Strikes, May, 1891 137-139 The Illinois Screen Law Approved, June 10, 1891 140 Official Notice of National Board on Defense Fund 141-142 Iowa State Convention at Oskaloosa, July 7, 1891 143-144 832 Pages Joint Agreement at Rendville, Ohio, July S. 1891, and Shaker Soap- vending 145 Pittsburg Strike Situation Explained by President Costello 146-148 Joint Agreement Jackson County, Ohio, and William Houston’s Death, 149 Illinois Miners’ Convention, January 13, 1892 150-156 Ohio Miners’ Convention with Names of Delegates, January 19, 1 892,157-158 Proceedings of Ohio Miners Continued 159—161 Address of President J. P. Jo^nes 162-169 Reports of Secretary and Auditors 170-171 Continuation of Ohio Convention Proceedings 172-176 Second Annual Convention United IMine Workers of America, and Names of Delegates Present 177—178 Governor McKinley’s Address 179 Committees Appointed 180 Address of President John B. Rae 181-182 Report of Secretary Patrick McBryde 183-186 Auditing Committee’s Report and Officers Elected 187-188 Report of Committee on Defense Fund and Adjournment 189-190 District 5 Convention March 8, 1892. with National' President jMc- Bride and Secretary Patrick IMcBryde Present , 191-192 Convention of District 11, March 8, 1892, and Officers Elected 193 Ohio Scale Agreement and District 17 Convention, April, 1892 194-195 Special Convention of District 11,' April 19, 1892 196-198 Illinois Special Convention, April 19, 1892 199-202 District 8 Joint Conference, April 23, 1892, and Tennessee District Scale Adopted April 27, 1892 20.3-204 Pittsburg District Convention, April 27, 1892 205-206 River Pittsburg District Convention, April 29, 1892 207-208 Address of President W. S. Scott of Iowa, April 28, 1892 209-211 District 12 Officials’ Manifesto on Constitutional Amendments 212-213 Hocking '\"alley Day Wage Scale Convention, May 7, 1892 214 Houtzdale, Pa., Checkweighman Laws 215-216 Hocking Valley -Toint Conference on 3tachine jMiiiing. ^lay 24, 1892 217-218 Comments on First Issue of United IMine Workers .Toiinial 219-221 Reorganization of Sub-District 1 of District (!, .Inly 2, 1892 222-225 \'ice-President Penna in Colorado, and Conunents of Edifor .lolin Kane on Empei'or William of Germany 226 Hocking Valley Sub-District 1 in Convention September 27. 1892 227-228 Machine Miners of Hocking Valley Convention October 1, 1892 ^^229-230 Convention of District 23, Octobei'. 1892. and Constitution Adopted 231-233 President Call Favors One Sub-District for Hocking Valiev, October, 1892 . 1 234-235 Convention of Sub-District 1 of District 6. Formed One Sub-District for Athens. Hocking and Perry Counties, Ohio 236-238 Summary of Hockiiig Valley, Ohio, .Joint Agreements fo 1893 , 239-243 President .Tohn jMcBride oif the Lk IM. W. of A. on the Ohio IMem- bership : 244-245 Sub-District 1 of District 6 in Convention. March. 1893 246 Fourth National Annual Convention, April 11, 1893 247 List of Delegates Present ; , 248 Secretary Patrick McBryde’s Report 249-251 Address of President .Jolin McBride in Part 252-257 Auditor’s Report 258 Proceedings of Fourth National Annual Convention 259-267 District 12 Fourth Annual Convention, April 25, 1893 268 Address of President .1. A. Crawford 269 Secretary Guyman’s Resume >of Work Done 279 Officers Elected and Adjournment 271 Convention Called by D. H. Sullivan to Form an Ohio Sub-District , 272 833 Pages Indiana Joint Conference with Operators and Contract Agreed To 273 Death of Mrs. John McBride, i\Iay 4, 1893 274 District 11 Special Convention, May 7, 1893 275-270 Joint Agreement for Jellieo, Tennessee, District, !May 8, 1893, and Hocking Valiev Machine Men’s Earnings Per Month for Mav, 1892-1893 — - - I_277-278 Ohio Convention and .Joint Conference, May 9. 1893 279-280 Operators and ^Miners .Jointly Failed to Agree on Seale of Prices, and Adjourned 281-287 Conditional .Joint Agreement Jjater, and Investigating Committee Appointed 288-289 Hocking Valley hlachine jMiners’ Meeting, -June 3, 1893 290 Explanatorv Circular to Ohio Miners on Disagreement with Operators. May, i893 291 Umpire Brittain’s Decision on Cannelton, Ohio, Arbitration Case 292 Sixtv-Day Xotes for Ohio Miners’ Pay Jointly Discussed, August. 1893 I 293-299 Delegate Convention of Hocking, Athens and Perry Counties, Ohio, on Sixty-Day Notes 300 Second Auditor’s Keport o-f District 6, December 7, 1893 301 Special Convention District 6, .January 9. 1894 302-303 Statement of Hocking Valley Operators iMorton. Turney and .Johnson to Miners’ Delegates, Advising Reduced Wages, and Minesr’ Action .306-308 Ohio Miners’ State Convention. February 9. 1894 309 List of Delegates and Wage Scales Presented by Operators and Miners. and Adjournment 310-312 Special Conventions of District 11, February 28, and Marcli 14, 1894 — 31.3-316 Fifth National Annual Convention, April 10. 1894 317-318 President .John McBride’s Address 319-326 Auditor’s Statement on Secretary McBryde’s Report 327 Proceedings of Fifth National Animal Convention Continued; Officers Elected .328-332 Constitution of District 5 for 1894 333-334 National Convention at Cleveland. Ohio-, ilay 14, 1894 335 President IMcBride's Address 336-338 Report of Scale Committee for Districts Named — 3.39-3'4.3 Operators and Miners in .Joint Conference Failed to Agree on Seale — 344-349 Provisional Scale of Prices Agreed Upon with Operators and IMiners, from .June 18, 1894, Until ^lay 1, 1895 350-351 Officers’ Circular Sent to iMiners, Explaining Their Position on the Joint Agreement Made 352-356 Sixth National Annual Convention. February 12. 1895 357-358 Address in Part of Ex-President McBride 359-363 Secretary and Auditors’ Report 364-365 Proceedings of Sixth National Convention Continued: Officers Elected 366-372 Second Annual Convention, Sub-District 1 of District 6, 1895 373-376 Iowa .Joint Conference !March 29, 1895 1 37i Sixth Annual Convention District 6, April 2. 1895 378—382 Officers Elected at Sixth Annual Convention Distinct 6 383 Proceedings of Sixth Annual Convention Continued, District 6 384— 388 .Joint Conference Ohio, Northern Illinois and Indiana 389-391 Convention District 25. Keystone, W. Va.. .June 14, 1895 392 District 20 Pratt Wage Scale, 1892-1895 393 .J. E. Lama. Nelsonville, Ohio, .Joint Agreement, June 25. 1895 394 Anthracite Constitution District 1, Adopted June 26, 1895 395-399 Pittsburg Convention and .Joint Conference Proceedings, December 2-5. 1895 400-407 834 Pages Seventli National Annual Convention, April 14-17, 1890 408-409 Address of President Penna in Part 410-412 Secretary Patrick McBryde’s Statement witli Auditors’ Eej)ort 413-414 Amendments to Constitution Reported and Adopted 415-416 Proceedings of Seventh Annual Conventioi,! CVmtinued 417-419 Portrait of President P. H. Penna and Othoers Elected 420-421 Portrait of Secretary W. C. Pearce, and Adjournment 422-423 Seventh Annual Convention District 11, April 24. 1896 424-426 Auditing Committee's Report. Election of Otticers and Adjournment 427-430 Revised Constitution District 11 for 1896 431-434 Eighth National Annual Convention, January 12, 1897 435 President Penna’s Welfare and Earewell Address in Part 436-440 Report of Secretary W. C. Pearce, with Auditors’ Report 441-442 Eighth National Annual Proceedings Continued 443-446 National Constitution for 1897 i 447-451 Constitution National Trades Assembly 135, Independent Order Knights of Labor 452 Election of Officers, United Mine Workers of America for 1897, and Adjournment 453-455 Illinois Mine Workers’ Special Convention, April 1, 1897 456-457 Eighth Annual Convention District 11, April 20-22, 1897- 458-460 Report of Auditing Committee, and Adjournment 461-463 Governor Atkinson of West Aritginia Writes to Labor Leaders, Au- gust 3, 1897 464-465 West Virginia Injunctions, August, 1897. Cof>ied from Original 466-468 Special National Convention, Columbus, Ohio, September 8-12, 1897 469-474 Resolutions Condemning tlie Perpetrators of tlie Lattimer, Pa., Mas- sacre, Sejjtember 10, 1897 475 Condolence Committee’s Report on Death of Vice-President John Kane, and Adjournment 476-478 Pictures of John Kane and National Executive Board, 1897 479-480 Indiana Miners’ Special Convention. September 16, 1897 481 Meeting of Seale Committee with Operators, and Adjournment 482-484 Illinois and West Virginia Local Joiiit Agreements 485 Pittsburg Operators’ and Miners’ Wage Scale for 1892-1897 Adopted 486-488 Report of Operators’ and Miners’ Committee for District 2, Septem- ber 23, 1897 ' 489 West Virginia .Joint ^Meeting with All Its Complications, October, 1897 ■ 490-491 .Joint Agreement with Operator .Johnson. Kanawlia Valley, W. Va 492 Aid Rendered Mine Workers by Officials of Otlier Trades in West Vir- ginia 493-494 Convention of Sub-Districts 1 and 2 of District 6, December, 1897 495-496 Preliminary .Joint Conference to Revive Interstate Agreement, De- cember 27, 1897 497 Call for Chicago .Joint Conference, .Janua)-y, 1898, and Sub-District 5 of District 6 Scale of Prices 498 District 5 Convention December 20, 1897 499-504 .Joint Meeting with Pittsburg Ojjerators, and Adjournment 505-508 Ninth Annual Convention District 6, .January 6, 1898 509-510 President Farms’ Review of the Situation , 511-514 Report of Secretary T. L. Lewis. Officers Elected, Auditors’ Report and Adjournment 51.5-518 Ninth National Annual Convention, .January 11, 1898 519-521 Address of President Ratchford in iPart 522-527 Report of Secretary Pearce and List of Delegates 528-530 Election of Officers , 531-533 Secretary Pearce, Ex-President McBride and David Ross Spoke Briefly , 534-535 835 Pages 544 54; American Federation of Labor Delegates Elected and Auditors’ Re- port 53B-537 National Constitution for 1898 538-543 Indianapolis Declared Futiue Head(piarters for National Organiza- tion Resolutions of Sympathy for Family of Edward Hartford, Delegate from British Trades Council to American Federation of Labor Convention, 1897, and Adjournment of Convent ion to Meet Op- erators Jointly Alonday, January 17 Pioceedings of Cliicago Joint tlmference with Operators, ISitS. and Adjournment 540-550 Joint Agreement on Wages and Eight lbnu- Day 551-552 Constitution of District 5 for 1898 ' 553-554 Convention of District 2, April 5, 1898 555-558 Comparative Wage Scales of District 5 from April 1, 1897, to 1900 559-500 Joint Agreement for Massillon District, Ohio, April 0, 1898 501 Pittsburg Scale of Prices Adopted, April 8-11, 1898 502 District 23 Joint Scale of Prices Adopted, April 14, 1898 503-508 Special Convention District 5 and Joint Test Report Jlade on Run-of- Mine Coal )jy IMiners and Operators 509-570 Win. Scaife’s Remarks on Governor Tanner of Illinois 571 Joint Conference District 5, May 19, 1898 572-574 Special Convention and Joint Conference District 12, .May 19, 1898 575-580 Indiana Block Coal and Sub-District 2 of District 0 Proceedings, .lime, 1898 581—585 Alabama Miners’ Convention and .Joint Agreement, .June, 1898 586-592 West Virginia Coal a Disturbing Factor, and National Aiidiiors' Report ; 593-594 tVntral J-’ennsylvania Wage Scale and Special Convention District 5 595-598 Report and Joint Agreement on Chicago & Alton Railroad, Illinois, August 17, 1898, and Rebates on Coal Ship|)ed to Chicago 599-603 Arkansas-Indian Territory Convention, October 7, 1898 604-605 Miners Killed and Maimed at Virden, Illinois, and the Battle Scene 60(i-()07 Telegrams of President Ratchford and Vice-President Mitchell on Virden Riot 608 Portrait of Governor Tanner of Illinois 609 The Lattinier, Pa., Massacre 610 .John Ivane Monument, 1898 611 Visit of Tennessee Convict Mine Report, October, 1898 612-613 O’Gara and King, Illinois, .Joint Agreement, November, 1898 614 Conditions and Mining Rates Before Chicago Scale Was Made 616 Convention of Sub-District 6 of District 6, Ohio, December 2. 1898 617-618 Tenth Annual Convention District 6, .January 5-7, 1899 619-62U Reports of Secretary and Auditors. Election of Officers and Adjourn- ment 621-625 Tenth National Annual Convention at Pittsburg, June 9. 1899 626— 63(i List of Delegates in Attendance 631-632 President Ratchford’s Report in Part : 633-638 Partial Report of Vice and Acting President Mitchell 639-641 Reports of Secretary, Auditors and Committees Appointed 642-644 Reports of Committee on Officers’ Reports and Credential Com- mittee 645-646 Report of Delegation to American Federation of Labor Convention 647-648 Officers Elected for 1899, with Portraits of President and Vice-Presi- dent 649-652 Resolutions Commending the Action of Governor John R. Tanner, and Election of Additional Board iMembers James and Reese 653-655 Revised Constitution for 1899, and Adjournment 655-662 Pittsburg Interstate Joint Conference, January 17, 1899 66.3-667 836 Pages Report of Joint Scale Committee and Adjournment 068-670 Bloomington, Illinois, INIcLean Coal Company Joint Agreement 671 Tenth Annual Convention District 12, Pebruaiy 27, 1890, Statements of President Hunter, National Pi'esident Alitchell and Secretary Ryan ^ 672-673 President Hunter’s Review and Ofiieers Elected (>74-675 Joint Conference with Operators 676-679 Proceedings of Miners Re-Convened, «ith Adjournment 680-682 District 13 Joint Agreement, March 9, 1899 683 Joint Agreement District 12, IMarch 10, 1899 684-685 Second Annual Conv’ention District 19, March 11, 1899 686-687 Proceedings Sub-District 2 of District 6, jMarch 14, 1899 688-689 Ohio Operators Sign Pittsburg Agreement and Cambridge, Ohio, Scale 690-691 Tenth Annual Convention District 11, March 21-30, 1899 692-695 Auditing Committee’s Report and Election of Officers 696 Seale of Wages and Adjournment 697-698 Constitution of District 11 for 1899 699-701 Joint Agreement Sub-District 1 District 12, March 23, 1899 702-704 Proceedings of District 2, March 23-24, 1899 705-707 Pittsburg Convention of Organized and Unorganized Miners, March 28, 1899 1 — 708-710 Operators and hliners in Joint Session 711-712 Miners’ Convention and Adjournment 713-716 Operators’ and Miners’ Joint Agreement, District 11, March 29, 1899 717-719 Hocking Valley Miners’ Convention, March 30, 1899 720-721 Beaver Valley, Pa., Joint Agreement, Ajjril 1, 1899 722 Eight-Hour Celebration at Nelsonville, Oliio, April 1, 1899 723 Semi-Annual Report of Auditors, District 6, and Resignation of Vice- president T. W. Davis, with Editor W. C. Scott’s Comments 724-725 Joint Conference Operators and Miners of Tennessee, July 17, 1899 725-727 Pittsburg Adjoui-ned Convention, July 20, 1899, and Joint Agreement District 2, Pemisylvania 728-732 West Virginia and Iowa Conventions, August, 1899 733-738 Dennis H. Sullivan and the Ohio Screen Law 739 Portrait of Editor W. C. Scott, Resolutions of Respect on Resignation of Vice-president Thomas W. Davis, and Adimonitions of T. L. Lewis 740-741 A Squib from John P. Reese, and Joint Agreement at Witt, Hlinoisl_742-743 Labor Day Celebrations, 1899, President Mitchell at Virden Anniver- sary, October 12, 1899, National Auditors’ Third Quarterly Report, October 23, 1899, and Nelsonville, Ohio, Resolutions ( 744-746 Convention District 2, November 29, 1899 747-748 Indian Territory Convention, December 9, 1899 749-750 Anthracite Wage Agreement, December 11, 1899 751-753 Second Annual Convention District 20, December 11, 1899 754-755 Myersdale, Pa., and Maryland Convention, December 12, 1899 756-759 Convention Proceedings District 2, December 12, 1899 760-761 West Virginia Convention, December 19, 1899, H. W. Smith’s Illus- trated Lecture, and Picture of National Executive Board Mem- bers, 1899 762-764 .loint Wage Scale Agreements from April 24, 1891, to December 11, 1899 765-829 ■Joint Agreement District 12, Operators on Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, April 24, 1891, and Hocking Valley Joint Agree- ment with Operators aqd Miners, May 1, 1891 765 W. P. Rend .Joint Agreement for Rendville, Ohio, Miners, July 8, 1891. and .Joint Scale Agreement for Ohio, April 7, 1892 766 837 Pahes •loinl Agieemeiii , Bituminous jMincrs and Operators of Indiana. April 21, 1892, and Block Coal Miners and Ojierators, Ajiril 23, 1892 7C7 Summary of Hocking Valley, Oliio, Joint Agreements 768-772 Indiana Bituminous IMiners’ and Operators’ Joint Agreement, iMay 10, 1893, and Scale of Prices for Jellico, Tennessee, District, May 8, 1893 773-775 Joint Agreement District 6. for lS93-!)4, ^lay 11, 1893 77(i Joint Agreement, National Trades Assembly 135, Knights of Labor and National Progressive Union, with Ohio Operators, June 12. 1894 777 •Toint Agreement between .1. E. Lama, of Nelsonville, Ohio, Operator, and President Katchford of District 6, .Tune 25, 1S!)5 778 •Toint Agreement Pittsburg Kailroad Districts. December 5, 1895 779-782 West Virginia Local Joint Agreement, October 21, 18i)7 783 •loint Wage Scale Agreed to at Pittslmrg, September 20, 18!t7, to Adopt Bates of Day and Dead Work Prices Paid in 1892 784—786 0])erators’ and Miners’ .Toint Report for District 2, Septemlier 23. 1897 787 Kanawha Valley, West ^Jrginia, Local .Toint Agreement, Noveml)er 3, 1897, and Scale of I’rices for Sub-District 5 of District 6, End- ing December 31. 1897 7SS Chicago .Toint Scale Agreement, 1898 (Including Eight-Hour Day) 789-790 .loint Conference Scale .Agreed to at Pittsburg, .April S, 1898 791 CTanparative Scale of Prices for Pittsburg District, 18!I7-1900 792 793 •Toint Agreement Massillon, Ohio, District, .April 6, 1898 794-795 District 23 Joint Agreement, April 14, 1898 79()-SUu .loint Interpretation of tlie Chicago Scale to Pittsburg Operators and Miners, Alay 31, 1898 So] Local .Agreement of District 20, between Operators and Aliners of the Blocton. .Alabama, Alines, .Ttme 30, 1898 802-803 •Toint Agreement CTiicago & .Alton Railioad Alines, .August 17. 1898 So4 O’Gara and King, Illinois .Joint .Agreement. November 16. 1898 805 .Joint .Agreements, District 19, .January 6, 1899, and Bloomington, Illi- nois, l<’eliruary 8. 1899 806 •Toint Agreement District 13, Iowa, Alarch 9. 1899, and National Inside Day Wage Scale, .April, 1898, to Alarch 31, 1899 S07-S0S District 12, Joint .Agreement. Alarch 10, 1899 809-810 Ohio .Joint .Agreement. Alarcli 16. and Cand>ridge, Ohio. Alarch 17. 1899 ^ 811-812 •Toint .Agreement Sub-District 1. District 12 813-814 Indiana .Joint .Agreement, Alarc h 30. 1899 S1.5-S17 Beaver A’alley, Pa., Scale, Alay in. 1899 SIS Tennessee .Joint .Agreement, .July 27, 1899 819-820 District 2 .Joint .Agreement for .August 1, 1899 821 .Joint .Agreement at AATtt, Hlinoi.s, .August 23. 1899 822 .Anthracite .Joint AA'age .Agreement, December 11, 1899 823-825 Jellico District Scale Prices, Tennessee, for 1893 to 1899 826 District 20, Pratt, .Alabama, Wage Scale, 1892 to 1900 827-828 Hocking A’alley, Ohio, Scale of Prices. 1892 to 1900, and .Joint Part- nership or Collective Bargaining 829-830 Index Pages 831-836 838