Samuel Gompers Letterbooks volume 259 Oct. 21, 1919 - Nov. 20, 1919 ac. 13,745Atkinson Robt. F. Mrs. 1021, Anderson W. R. 737, Anderson R. H. 6, Anderson M. (Mrs) 52 Alarie M. E. 76 Anderson J. F. 119, Anderson Harry. 163, Appleton W. A. 200, 603, Aley O. P. 207, Alpine John R. 207, Avery Thos. 302, Andler S. M. 354, Alarie M. E. 355, Atkinson J. C. 428, Allison J. H. 507, Abramson Meyer 651, Ahlberg Herman G. 723, Anderson Henry W. 735, Alifas N. P. 762, Atkinson Isabella 804, Avery, Lincoln 832,Barondess Joseph 1005, Brindell R. P. 43 Baker F. M. 978, Barrett Geo. 136, 575, 706, Berres A. J. 257.992, Beddow O. A. 975, Baker Newton D. Hon. 281, Baldesi Gino 286, Beesley Dr. 296 Bates Jos. 338, Barrett C. F. 430, 480, Belnap Hoby M. 555, Bangs L. R. 566. Badgley Ralph 597. Beatty T. M. 614 Balino Americo I. 865 Beveridge T. A. 871 Bechtold Geo. 892 Barnett Geo E. 919. Beckman Ed. 934, Beeman R. J. 1023,Brown, Gerald H 847 Boynton Glen Moody 866 Burnett Geo. 613, Blackwell J. E 877 Blase Oscar H. 573, Bryan W E. 881 Bruff John Kemp. 462, Brown Seth R. 418, Butler H. B. 407, 499, Brady Peter J. 399, Blake Will T. 335, Burke Thos. E. 12, 249, 424, 985, Billet A. H. 27, Bowerman C. W. 72 Bradford C. 73 Brown Wm. K. 93, Bines J. M. 137, Bond W. H. 187, Breuninger Aug. A. 194, Bradley Rolland. 222, Brown Wm. 235, Brackimees W. L. 239, Blue Rupert Dr. 247, 504, Broening Henry F. 266, 784, Bohm Ernest 278, Butler H. B. 365, Blair Samuel 441, Birthwright W. C. 514, Brenchand Gabrel 581, Brown Alex 602, Burt, Sydney 844 Brady Peter J. 710, Boyles. Sam. H. 683, Bingham Robt. 654, Boeglin L. E. 669, Burford Robt. E. 674, Bowen L. 708, Brinker J. H. 709, Bisser Theo. 744, Boate W. S. 801, Brown Nat Mrs. 923, Britton W. W. 946, [*CA*] Child Margaret S. 970, Carter Neva M. 738, Caporal John 13, Cahus Jose V. 94, Cassidy Maurice J. 170, Carr Wm. 232, Canfield F. A. 360, Carlisle P. C. 383, Casey Mike 418, Childress Geo. C. 460, 797, Cheek Frank W. 466, Candee Geo. 482, Chase M. B. 556, Campbell Fred A. 703, Cantacuzsne Julia 779, Chillington J. H. 806, Caldwell, C. L. 834 Cameron Ray 890, Cosgrove John T. 690, Cummings D. C. 586, Cousins J. C. 676, Clancy Thos L. 525, Conway H. J. 427, 680, 997. Coleman J. H. 392. Coyne John J. 377. Clark Champ Hon. 1, Clothier R. C. 31 Crawford Mark S. 104, 238, Convoy Sara A. 126, 218, Cox F. M. 184 Cook Grover C. 201, Cross H. M. 243, Clarke Wm. P. 253, Comerfort H. M. 275, 827, City Editor of Jewish [?] 285. Covington George 310 Cassidy Maurice J. 316. Cosgrove, John T. 397. Clark, Fred J. 41, 760. Cross B. Franklin 421. Colby Everett 440. Cross Ephiram 494. Crowther Samuel 547. 805. Cook Maurice J. 743. Cibben, F. C. 821, Crebben F. C. 821 Coughlin Harry. 705, Clarke Dalton 973, Crider C. W. 750, Combs P. S. 764, Coefield John 951, Dungan Irvine 860 Detrick 7.H. 878 Duffy Patrick 748, 788, Danielson Joe. 729, Duke Russell E. 693, Devering John. 678, Deeter P. E. Davis Edgar B. 596, Dale J. B. 401, Dailey John H. 18, 82, Duncan Jas. A. 81, 267, 487, 559, Davis E. F. 132, Donlin John 196, 220, Douglas, George. 226, Duffy Frank. 267, 323, 425, 559. Davidson E. C. 369, 598, 988, Daniels Josephus Hon. 283, Dugas Elenor 409, Dickson A. L. 297, Deming J Howard 318, Darby E. B. Mrs. 500, Dexter P. B. 545, Davis John L. 574, 666, 724, Doldson O. V. 579, Decker Frank J. 623, Doyle Jas. H. 664, Davis C. P. 757, D'Allessendro D. 850 Duke Russell 875. [*D*]Diehl J. W. 928, Deal W. R. 938,Evans J. 46 Eichelberger Harry S. 79, Executive Council 304, 366,367, 520, 564, 695, 808, Essley Marion 315, Eltonhead A. G. 348, Ennis R. L. 418, Elliot E. S. 464, Edwards Robt. 572, Evans John R, 592, Elston Arthur 658, Easley Ralph M. 675, Edlin W m. 915, Evans H. L. 983, Fuller W. Robt. E. 685, Fisher Irving 882, 891, Flaherty Tho. F. 609, Faiey James 887, Frankel M. M. 469, Frist Martin S. 457, Frantz Martin L. 414, Feringa Louis 378, Farleigh T. K. 362, Flett John A. 346, 532, Flagherty Timothy 290, Forrester J. J. 20, 24, 84, 112, 120, 575, 752, 842, 900, 903, Flime F. A. 69, Frey J. P. 58, 967, Farbell & Ida M. (Miss) 57, Fleming Urban 126, Fries Vollmer 139, Farmilo A. 189, Fontaine M. 192, Fisher Jacob 211, 267, 559, 1000, Fauree John S. 228, Frayne Hugh 259, 380, 471, 568, 649, 799, Fartenbaugh E. G. 305, Feringa Louis 356, Fitzpatrick John. 519, 872, Finn F. A. 553, Freeman W. E. 571, 576, Flood Emmet T. 715, Fox Chas 732,Franck Chas. H. 989. Fitzgerald Thos. R. 977. Furtenbaugh E.C. 720. Freeman W.E. 726. Fleet J.S. 745. Fureseth Andrew 954. Farrar Eugenie H. 964. Fish Fred. 996.Grant Daniel L. 927. Giles J.J. 688. Guard R. Lee 675. Grace Joseph G. 648. Goodyear Jas. [?] 610. Gebhard Geo. H. 9. Gough G.W. 21. Golden John 98, 116, 311, 467. Guille Geo. Allen 110. Gibbs Jr. Edward 203. Greenstein Abraham. 255, Green Wm. 267, 559, 816, 884, 995, Greig Wm. F. 284 Gibben J. 358 Gossett P.E. 437. Grace Lawrence A. 442 Green T.J. 503, Gree H.G. 498, Gompers Samuel 468, 509, 510, 716, Green C.P. 554 Graham, W.D. 839 Gunther Earl O. 935, GHA Haggard W. W. 898, Hart Louise J. 687, Harris T. A. 677, Hatch L. W. 642, Hemmy D. J. 580, Hatch Jas. H. 456, Henderson Daniel 384, Harkins Chas. 320, Hall J. H. Jr. 301, Harley Louis R. 2, Hemmy D. J. 15, Hamilton M. Irving Miss 66, 177, 914, Hyeager C. 60 Hillman A.M. 67 Hamlin Chas. 131, Haydock Geo. 144, Herrington L. M. 178, Henry A.D. 196, Harvey E.T. 208, 386. Huckney Hiram H. 223, Hening Chris 234, Harriman J Borden Mrs. 284, Hardy G. H. 370, Hawkins Geo. 562, Hays J.W. 733, 817, Hamilton Grant 761, Hass [W] U. G. 863 Hawes AG. 897,Henderson John 974. Heberling S. E. 958. Healy Timothy 956. Hays Frank J. 948. Harvard University 929. Harris Elizabeth 965. Haffner W. H. 982. Hesketh Robt. 1020.[*HI*] Hughes T. L 44, 998, Hutton S. E. 145, Houston Edwin 1022, Hutchison W m. S. 197, 308, 400, 585,717, 719, Hope H. S. 276, Hinds J. H. 450, Hunt Chas Wrenn. 472, Howe A. L. 505, Hoag W. A. 567, Hill J. J. 593, Huse Novis A. 595, Hittson R. A. 637, Hoybook Douglas 668, Hudson H.H. 679. Humphirey Andrew 711, Hodgman T. Morey 793, Howell H. B. 837, Hughes A. G. 853, Hoyem Oliver 879, Hubbard Fred A. 1010,IJ Jennings R. Q. 1001, Iglesias Santiago 129, 140, 796, 1025, Ingebretson Louis 193, Iffland Chas. 322, Jones C Pickney 969, Jaggi A. 790, Joyce Martin 391, Johnson Geo. B. 28, Jarvis Anna 165, Jewell B. M. 180, Jensen S. G. 183, Johnston Wm. H. 219, 250, 254, 258, 261, 768, 937, 945, Johnson Phillip 224, Jones Jos. W. 268, 333, Jones Wm. 373, James Newton A. 439, Jones J. S. 615, Jenkins Harry 721, Jackson John 754, 845, Joyce John J. 759, 984, Johnson G. W. 864, Jarmon R. L. 880, Jones A. P. 903,[*K*] Kern, E. J. 50 King A. E. 70 Kiatz John Aubel 107, Kuyfer J. W. 143, Kahn Alexander 245, Kugler Albert J. 273, 541, Konemkamp S. J. 317, Kittredge F. H. 389, Kinne Rose Miss 390, Kletch Ernest 422, Kerwin H. L. 445, 529, Klase J. H. 475, Kreyling David 583, Kahn Alexander 606, Kloety Irene 626, Kramer Wm. F. 659, 727, 986, Kasten Frank 856 Kline J. W. [*L*] Lirm A. R. 851 Lane L. W. 617, Larkimar Geo 561, Land Paul 484, Lawson G. W. 502, Lemay O. 415, Lawrence W. F. 387, Land The Mark. 385, Lane Franklin K. 198, Lindsay S. M. 363, 368, Lamb J. R. 30, Lynch J. L. 33 Lewis N. (Miss) 35 Leonard E. W. 111, Loos Wm A. 115, Lepps, O. G. 135, Larger B. A. 204, 747, Lewis Matt 272, Lewis J. B. 294, Leisenring Henry A. 331, Lee W. E. 342, Lewis John L. 363, 478, 587, 588, 616, Long J Weller. 436, Lusenning Harry A. [Chas H.] 470, 731, Lee W. G. 538, Little Bryce 691, Loftus P. B. 763, Lucas, F. E. 828, 1012,Lyons Joseph H. 1008, Lynn Walter J. 1024, [*MA*] Mack M J. 922, Managing Herman 870 Meserole Darwin J. 794, Mazzei Peter A. 639, Mainert Chas. A. 614, MacMillan John 14, Mahon W. D. 215, 267, 496, 559, 818, Meiman Benjamin 105, MacAnanny Earl C. 154, Manning John J. 196, Mallon Guy Mrs. 287, MacCaskie J. A. 306, Melbourne J. 307, Mayes John C. 371, Meredith E. 501, Marsal L. F. 486, Mahan Jas. B. 517, Mason H. E. 563, Macavs Chas. W. 638, Marnier John. 772, Matteson N. J. 792, Meehan, J. J. 829 Morrien P. L. 854,[*MI*] Moore L. H. 936, Minn Brewing Co. 689, Morrison Frank. 196, 212, Moore Chas. J. 479, Mitchell John. 25, Murphy J. M. (Miss) 68 Mitchell C. U. 61 Mitchell William 90, 696, Mundia Louis 117, Morrison John 138, 800, Murphy Thos. 158, 453, 644, Morgan M. M. 230, Moriarty John. 319, Myers C. L. 357, Murphy Daniel 418, Miller J. D. 432, Morunga Walter A. 570, 883, Monahan Geo. A. 962, Moyer C. H. 947,[*MC*] McCarthy E. M. 961, McSparran John A. 643, McCarthy Frank. 530, 647, McDonald Duncan 121, McCormick Herbert 246, McDonough Jos. 293, McGinnis O. H. 332, McKinlock Geo. A. 340, McCulley Ben. F. Mrs. 372, McAndrew Anthony 396, McKee Geo. M. 438, McCarthy Chas. 521, McClusky Howard Y. 641, McCulley Ben F. 722, McConnell Grace E. 783, McAdam, E. A. 833 McKenzie John C. 867.NO Noyes Chas. S. 803, Newman B. J. 742, Noe Holly. 697, Newmeyer E. J. 608, Noe Holly 526, Nat & International 270, Nestor Agnes. 205, Nixon Wm. A. 5, New York Times 47 New York Review 49A, Norland John M. 119, 590, Nealey Wm. 152, Newman Orin 16[8]2, 852 Noonan Jas. P. 269, 401, 565, 765, 840, 1011, Nat. Fed. of Post Office Clerks 560, O'Donnell Simon 313, O'Flynn Wm. E. 199, O'Connell Jas. 196, Oster W. 36 Obergfell. Joseph 182, Ossman G. Edward. 337, Oyster Guy H. 506, Oliver Anthony J. 591, 807, 968, O'Donnell M. G. 655, National Labor Digest 848 O'Brien J. J. [J. J.] 955,Naiman Sol. 910, Noble Lloyd. 925,[*P Q*] Palmer, A. Mitchell 841 Patton Walter M. 895 Patterson E. G. 781, Pell Robt. C. 711, Percy W. W. 488, Purdy A. S. (Miss) 34 Pryazen V. 54 Phillips H. J. 88, Pabcock O. A. 98, Pett Ernest H. 109, Pauley J. L. 113, 133, Payne Martin L. 123, Pulido Alexander. 141, Phillips J. L. 185, Potter O. D. 209, 730, Peters H. W. 350, Peterson P. H. 359, Powell Lyman P. 364, Pittman V. G. 410, Patterson Ed. T. 444, 578, Parker Dolpha. 463, Pierreler Victor T. 497. Peabody Geo. Foster 465, Pegreer Robt. W. E. 483, Prush M. C. 594, Phillips H. J. 701, Porter C. M. Clay. 746, Perkins, G. W. 376. 819, Paquin, Frank 824,Quinlivan, J.J 820, 908, Pilant J. R. 994, Pernell Eugene 913, Proctor Ethel S. 979, Persion A. 999, Parker A. L. 1014,R Rake Elmer 904, Rosenberg Elmer 861. Reed Robt. L. 736, Rellpath Frank. 382, Richie J. M. 45, 159, 577, 600, 751, Rosenberg S. 55 Robinson Warren 101, Ross Cecil A. 102, 931, Rouhaud Pedro Gomez 106, Reinemeyer F. P. 122, 823, 987, Robinson Jonas. 124, Richmond W. H. 130, Reinbold Philip K. 148, Roach Jas. E. 151, Rosenberg Albert 188, Rickert T. A. 216, 267, 559, Rogers Jason. 262, 926, Rieffa R. E. Mrs. 279. Rodgers Chas. S. 292, Rascher F. 295, Ryan M. F. 953, Ross John M. 624, 976, Ralph Jos. 627, Rosa E. J. 741, Robinson, C. S 826 Rice, Carter 831, 888, Russell CharlesSA Shout Lelande M. 607, Shannon J. S. 549, Scott John 511, (789, Morrison's book,) 785, 838, Schlattman Ben. 485, Shamp C. L. 413, 758, Sheppard W. L. 343, Shea Timothy 341, 539, Savage L. F. 298, Short Wm. M. 288, 973, 1009, Snelling Milton 171, 957, Savery B. F. 17, Scott H. (Miss) 32 Short W. H. 37, 162, 489, 488, 552, 713, 777, 795, 942, Sanford J. W. 74 Scofield John C. 97, 166, Scandlin H. W. 103, Scott C. H. 190, Scharrenberg Paul 210, 416, 417, 918, Shook L. J. 231, Skemp J. C. 274, 426, 551, 629, 670, 756, Shippley Percy. 291, Schoonover Geo. L. 443, Shlatter N. C. B. 473, Sheppard L. E. 538, Schmidt J. G. 599, 911, Shivers. Will 661,Seal Geo. 980, Shhoen F 739, Smith P. 672, Schlesinger Benj 771, Scott M. G. 909, Shetterly C. Russell. 1003,SI Smith J. Chessteen 924, Spargo. Geo. C. 798, Smith W. O. 684, Stacy J. C. 77 Sturgeon R. M 56 Smith H. 682, Streifler Henry. 91, 225, 236, 347, 458, 459, 786, Sims J. L. 150, Smith Paul J. 156, 452, Slavery B. F. 160, Stecker T. G. 162, 191, Swaine Philip B. 172, Stone Warren S. 197, 345, 540, Spooner Wm. A. 251, 546, Snaith A. R. 271, Sutton R. C. 321, Sweeney Thos. 375, 812 Steele Mamie 394, Spielman J. E. 395, Sullivan Jere L. 423, Smutzer F. C. 492, Snelling Milton 474, 770, Smith J. E. 544, Stewart John A. 586, 773, Smith M. E. 734, Skemp, J. C. 815 Spencer W. J. 836 Stroyer Paul Moore. 849Suitor Fred W. 952, Swiggett Edward T. 916, Strauss Wm. 920, Stillman Chas B. 971, Sweeney Thos. 1016,T Tobin D. J. 39, 213, 267, 557, 559, 769, 776, 1006, Taylor Chas. Perry 85, 524, 698, Tighe J. E. 128, Tickle Julius D. 175, Turner Edmund 181, 822, Tighe M. F. 221, 944, Tegtmeyer Edward. 330, Tilden Julia Ackley 388, Tittemore I. N. 434, Taylor E. L. 617, Turner W. A. 625, Tompach Stanley 673, Trommer H. F. 725, Trear Perley Morse 774, Troeger, Paul 814 Turnbull, Wm. 825, Trowbridge, C. W 830, Tegen Alert 896, Truves M. 917.U V Vargas. Canuto 10, 11, 63, 95, Valentino Bann P. A. di. 53 Vargas Valentine Joseph F. 214, 267, 559, 949, 921, Vanderpoel Adrian 393, 714, Underwood & Undewood. 889,WA Walling Wm. English 802, 1013, Wagner A. J. A. 652, Welch Thos. J. 646, 787, Weaver Oscar C. 628, Warren Francis E. 558, Wash. Herald. 461, Wayne A. J. 412, Wechselberger Otto 376, Walker J. W. 8, Walker E. R. 42 Walsh J. E. 48 Weaver Zubrelon 99, Wenrick D. S. 114, Wagner Chas. W. 176, Walsh John O. 233, 775, 789, White Henry. 269, Wear L. G. 299, Weyand Louis 303, 493, Weaver Ancil B. 334, Walker J. H. 344, Walker May. 408, Wade W. R. 451, Wallach Isador. 495, Webster J. Stanley 477, Weisgal M. 780, Weyand L. 857.Watkins Harry M. 907, Weber G. A. 909 Wheeler A.G. 966.WI Wilson Jas. 950, Willert Harry 899, Whitney William D. 868, Wood Abe. L. 862, Wigger J. E. 755, Wilson A. C. 640, Wilson J. H. 611, Worden Matthew 381, Wynn Jas. C. 379, Woll Matthew 3, 217, 248, 252, 906, Wieber Joseph A. 78, Wilson C. Earl 142, Williams L. E. 161, 449, 527, Willcox Wm. G. 167, Williams O. C. 179, Wilson J. M. 265, Winstow W. C. 300, Wigger J. E. 349, 460, Wolfe W. K. 351, Wilkinson H. D. 361, Wolfe Wm. A. 490, Wilson Louise 543, 662, Wyatt Cal. 550, Wisler Willis W. 740, Wilcoxson, M. H. 835 859, Wills William P Wilson W. C. 933,[*Y Z*] Youille, G. A 843, Young E Marshall. 206. Zenner Phillip 169, Zeil Chas. J. 186, Zinmar J. A. 512,1 EP October 21, 1919. Dear Mr. Clark:- It was very good of you to send me copy of your address before the Advertising Clubs Convention in New Orleans. I had not seen report of your speech and would not have seen it if you had not sent it to me. I appreciate more than I can express your references to me in that address. I only hope that I really merit all of the kind things you say and surely, if I did not appreciate what you or what others say of me and what I am trying to do for my fellow-men, I would be less than human and devoid of all sentiment and feeling. Again thanking you, I am Sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [?]able Champ Clerk, House of Representatives, Washington, D. C.2 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. Louis R. Harley, Head of Dept. of History, The Central High School, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 15 received and contents noted. Your letter deals with the general subject of Industrial Training and Vocational Education. This entire subject has been very fully dealt with by various conventions of the American Federation of Labor. I would suggest that you refer to pages 207 to 21, inclusive of the American Federal of Labor History, Encyclopedia, Reference Book. References to the entire subject of education, industrial training and vocational education are given therein and from which you will very clearly understand the attitude of the American Federation of Labor. Copy of this volume can be furnished you for $2.00. In addition, the Special Committee on Industrial Education of the American Federation of Labor made a report to the annual convention of the A.F. of L., held at Rochester, New York, November, 1912. That report was afterwards published in pamphlet form and can be furnished you for 25 cents. Enclosed you will please find copy of an address which I delivered before the Eighth Annual Convention of the National Society for the Promotion of Industrial Education, in Richmond, Va., December 10, 1914. If you will refer to these various matters above noted, you will find your several questions very fully answered. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [*encl*]3 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. Matthew Woll, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Council of Natl. Defense Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed please find copy of letter, addressed to me by William A. Nixon of Brooklyn, New York, regarding the strike of the printing trade in that city. You will also find enclosed carbon copy of my reply, both of which are submitted to you for your consideration and whatever action you may be able to take thereon. Fraternally Yours, Samuel Gompers President, encl American Federation of Labor.4 COPY Brooklyn, N. Y., October 15, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres., American Federation of Labor. New York City. Dear Sir:- I am not a union man but have a relative who is a member of "Big Six". I feel convinced myself that "Big Six" has violated some agreement by going on a strike at the present time. If you feel that you could enlighten me on the following points, I would greatly appreciate your doing so. If I understand correctly, some time ago the printing trades throughout the United States and Canada vested power in their international officers to make an agreement with the employing printers to work 48 hours a week until May 1, 1921, when a 44 hour week would be granted. At the same time privilege was given Local Unions, when their contract expired, to endeavor to secure better hours of they could. Could you send me a copy of the resolution which the printers voted on at that time? I understand that a contract was violated with the printers went on a strike. The statement has been made to me that neither Mr. Marsden G. Scott, nor Mr. William G. Berry have talked, written nor seen Mr. Leon H. House since last June, in an endeavor to try and bring about a satisfactory adjustment of the present labor situation in the printing trade in New York City. I realize that this is an unusual letter to write you; but in my home considerable feeling has been brought about due to some labor questions. I try to be fair in all such discussions, but as I have no authority upon which to base my opinion in this instance, I thought it possible that you might see your way clear to give me such information as you see fit. Thanking you for your consideration, I am Very truly yours, (Signed) William A. Nixon 1325 Atlantic Avenue.5 EP October 21, 1919 Mr. William A. Nixon, 1325 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 15 received and contents noted. You request certain information regarding the strike of the printing trades of New York City. I have referred your letter to Mr. Matthew Woll, Vice-President of the American Federation of Labor, who is an official of the Allied Printing Trades Council and who will be better able to give you the information you seek than the undersigned. I am quite sure that if you would write direct to Mr. Marsden G. Scott, President, International Typographical Union, 635-39 Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana he would be very glad to give you any information within his power. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.6 LAS/AS. October 20, 1919. Mr. R. H. Anderson, Secretary International Hod Carriers, Building and Commo Laborers of America, Local Union #302, 914 E. Fairrew Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 17th received in which you bring to my attention the matter of the bricklayers not being affiliated with the Trades and Labor Council. I beg to advise that under date of September 28th the Trade and Labor Council wrote me relative to this matter and I in turn communicated with the International Union of Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterers of America and am in receipt of a letter under date of October 15th from Secretary William Dobson to the effect that he is writing his organization in Tulsa relative to the matter and as soon as he is in receipt of a reply he is to advise me further relative to the question. As soon as I have any definite information I shall be glad to communicate the information to the Central Body. I might state that in matter of this kind they should always7 -2- be taken up through the Trades and Labor Council to prevent conflict. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.8 LAS/ AS. October. 20, 1919 Mr. J. W. Walker, Box 22, Chaffee, Missouri. Dear Sir: Your favor of October 17th received and contents noted. The teamsters come under the jurisdiction of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America, and I am today writing to Secretary Thomas L. Hughes, 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana asking him to forward you the information. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.9 AS. October 20, 1919 Mr. George B. Gebhard, 22 Maple Avenue Niles, OHIO. October 17th S.S Bowser Niles and vicinity Niles Samuel Gompers 10 VLY October 20, 1919. Mr. Canuto Vargas, Secretary, Pan-American Federation of Labor, A.F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, as you know, has been meeting from day to day at headquarters during the intervals between meetings of the Presidential Industrial Conference and the various committees of that conference. I placed before my colleagues of the Executive Council your letter of August 27 and enclosures, regarding the general situation in Mexico. Considerable discussion ensued regarding the general subject matter, and the Executive Council declared its determination that the officers of the American Federation of Labor continue their efforts in behalf of maintaining peaceful relations between the governments of the two great republics. From time to time, if there are any suggestions which you may have to offer by which the officers of the Federation can be of still further assistance in the matter, I shall be very pleased to have you advise me. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.11 VLY October 20,1919. Mr. Canuto Vargas, Secretary, Pan-American Federation of Labor A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to your letter of August 26th in which you enclosed a copy of a resolution adopted by the recent meeting of the Pan American Federation of Labor, regarding the organized workers of the Dominican Republic, I beg to advise you that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is now in session at headquarters. has directed that the special committee of the A. F. of L. which the Atlantic City convention authorized to visit Porto should also visit Santo Domingo for the purpose of making an investigation of conditions there, with special reference to the wage workers. I am not now in a position to advise you the exact time when the committee will undertake the trip, but I hope that it will be in the very near future. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.12 VLY October 20, 1919. Mr.Thomas E. Burke, Secretary-Treasurer, United Association of Plumbers and Steam Fitters of the United States and Canada, 411 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: As you were advised by Secretary Morrison would be done, your letter of August 7 making protest against Vocational Schools in Army camps for soldiers, was placed before the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its session at headquarters October 6-20. The matter was referred to the undersigned for an investigation and report to the Executive Council. You say in your letter that you have received protests from a number of your local unions against the plan of vocational schools at army camps for soldiers. I should be very glad if you would sent me copies of the all of these protets and the matter then will be given further attention. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 13 LL October 18, 1919. Mr. John Caporal, Business Agent, Film Exchange Employes' Union No. 16169, 3619 Finney Ave., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 14th received and contents noted. You state that you have decided to delay in presenting the new scale of wages until December 1st, to take effect on December 15, 1919, this being your busiest season in the year. I sincerely trust that your local will be successful in presenting your new scale at that time and would be pleased to hear from you of the success your local has. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.14 LL October 20, 1919. Mr. John MacMillan, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 8227, 308 W. 2nd St., Ottumwa, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 13th received and contents noted. I am pleased to note that your local is affiliated with the Trades and Labor Assembly and that you pay 75 cents per month dues, in accordance with the Constitution. I am also glad to note that the American Mining Tool Company gave your local an advance since you sent in the scale. You state that you received a letter from Organizer Hemmy and that the men where you work are getting awfully restless. Let me say, in reply, that I am today writing to Organizer Hemmy for his report in this matter and would request that the members of your local guard against any ill-advised action and wait until Organizer Hemmy's report is received and your scale submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration. With kind regards and wishing your local success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.15 LL October 20, 1919. Mr. D. J. Hemmy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 624 Main St., Keokuk, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from Mr. John MacMillan, Secretary, Federal Labor Union, 308 W. 2nd St., Ottumwa, together with carbon copy of my reply. I would appreciate very much your report on their new wage scale, given the increase in wages they are asking, decrease in hours, if any, and other working conditions; also your recommendation, to be submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration. Thanking you in advance for giving this matter your attention and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.16 COPY FEDERAL LABOR UNION NO. 8227, Ottumwa, Iowa, 10/13, 1919. Mr. Samual Gompers, Pres., Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your letter of September 15th and remailed Oct. 10th, will say that we have complied with the Constitution, our initiation fee is $2.00 monthly, dues 75 cents. We are affiliated with the Trades and Labor Assembly. I received a letter from Mr. Hemmy. I wrote him giving all the information I could. The men where I work are getting awfully restless. The American Mining Tool Co. gave an advance on their own accord since I sent in scale. Provisions have advanced in the last two weeks. Yours respectfully, (Signed) JNO. MACMILLAN 308 West 2nd St.17 LL October 20, 1919. Mr. B. F. Savery, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 621 Haven Ave., Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of October 15th, I am enclosing herewith copy of letter I have just received from President J. J. Forrester, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, together with a circular, furnishing information regarding the Janitors and Station Employes' Union No. 16515, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, about which you wrote me under date of Octdober 9th. I also beg to advise that I am sending copy of same to Secretary Gough, of this local. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.18 LL October 20, 1919. Mr. John H. Dailey, Secretary, Freight Handlers' Unin No. 16700, 524 Va. Ave., Petersburg, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you under date of October 15th, I am enclosing herewith copy of letter just received from President Forrester, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, which is self-explanatory. I am also enclosing copy of Supplement No. 7 to General Order No. 27, which President Forrester furnished for your information. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.19 BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY AND STEAMSHIP CLERKS FREIGHT HANDLERS EXPRESS AND STATION EMPLOYES 409-10-11 A.F. of L. Building Washington,D.C. Washington Office October 17, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington,D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 15th instant, together with copy of a communication addressed to Brother Frank Morrison from John Dailey, Secretary, F. H. U. No. 16700, and whose address is 524 Virginia Avenue, Petersburg, Virginia. I am unable to determine from Mr. Dailey's letter the rate to which the Freight Handlers are entitled. It will be necessary for him to advise what they were receiving prior to January 1, 1918 as it is on that rate all additional rates are based. It will be easy for Mr. Dailey, however, to figure out the rate to which they are entitled from Supplement No. 7, copy of which is herewith enclosed. ( See Article 5, paragraph A, which carries of minimum of thirty-one cents per hour and a maximum of forty-three cents per hour). If, however, these employees were receiving a rate in excess of nineteen cents per hour prior to January 1, 1918, their rate, of course, would be in advance of thirty-one cents per hour. We are handling the Petersburg situation with our General Chairman on the Norfolk and Western, Mr. C. V. Lane, and are writing him today for additional information on the subject, also with a view to having him press this case as vigorously as possible. We shall be pleased to advise you as soon as we receive some definitive information from Mr. Lane on the subject. Yours fraternally, Jas. J. Forrester, Grand President.20 LL October 20, 1919, Mr. J. J. Forrester, President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I thank you for your letter of October 17th, also for the information contained therein, and beg to state that I am transmitting same to Secretary Gough, of the Janitors' and Station Employes' Union No. 16515, of Ann Arbor, Michigan. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.21 LL October 20, 1919. Mr. G. W. Gough, Secretary, Janitors and Station Employes' Union No. 16315, 548 Elizabeth St., Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of October 15th, I am enclosing therewith copy of letter just received from President J. J. Forrester, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, together with circulars, furnishing information in regard to the increase asked for by the car cleaners of your local. With kind regard, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.22 BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY AND STEAMSHIP CLERKS FREIGHT HANDLERS EXPRESS AND STATION EMPLOYES. 409-10-11 A.F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Washington Office October 17, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am pleased to receive your favor of the 15th instant, together with a copy of a communication you received from Mr. G.W. Gough, Secretary, Janitors and Station Employes' Union No. 16515, 548 Elizabeth Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan, relative to raise in wages for car cleaners. In reply will state that the car cleaners come within the jurisdiction of the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen of America. Unitl recently they had a minimum of forty-one cents per hour but through the Nation-wide Agreement just concluded they received an advance of four cents an hour which makes the present totol forty-five cents. The Janitors and Station Employes, if employed around a railway station, come under the terms of supplement No. 7, (see paragraph B, Article 1, copy of which is herewith enclosed). Their minimum rate is $70.00 per month. This, however, by no means the maximum. For instance, if they were receiving $75.00 per month, January 1, 1918, the present rate would be $100.00 per month, but where they received $45.00 per month or less prior to January 1. 1918, the $70.00 minimum applies. If they are white employees they are eligible to membership in the Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes. If colored, of course, it is necessary for them to continue under a Federal Charter.23 - 2 - The minimum rater for callers is $87.50 per month ( see paragraph A, Article 1, Supplement No. 7, which specifically mentioned train and engine-crew callers). The caller in question, Charles Cheattem, is entitled to the difference between $52,00 per month and $70.00 per month, the amount he has drawn on alternate months since September 1, 1918, which would indicate he has consideable coming to him in the way of back pay which he has not received. This latter case is one that should be placed in the hands of our Local Protective Committee for handling with the Management. They will not experience any difficulty in securing this back pay. I note in the last paragraph of Mr. Gough's communication he asks for a copy of the latest wage scale and I assume he refers to Supplement No. 7; consequently, I am enclosing an additional copy to be forwarded to him as well as a copy of Interpretation No 8 to Supplement No. 7 which will give him considerable additional information and more than likely clarify many questions in his mind. With best wishes, I am Yours fraternally, Jas J. Forrester, Grand President.24 LL October 20, 1919. Mr. J. J. Forrester, President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I thank you for your letter of October 17th, with information regarding the Freight Handlers' Union No. 16700, Petersburg, Va. I am transmitting this information to Secretary Dailey, of that local. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.25 LFL October 20, 1919 Mrs. John Mitchell, 3 Claremont Avenue, Mt. Vernon, N.Y. My dear Mrs. Mitchell:- The Executive Council of the American Federation of labor opened its regular session at headquarters October sixth. It is the first meeting held since the passing of your dear husband and my friend of many years, John Mitchell. The Executive Council adopted resolutions regarding Mr. Mitchell and I enclose a copy herein. With repeated assurances of our sympathy in your bereavement, I am, Respectfully yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.26 John Mitchell, our beloved friend and former colleague has passed away. His unexpected death came as a shock to those who knew him, who saw in him the great heart and sympathy for those who could not protect and defend themselves. In him were blended in a remarkable way the idealist and materialist. His heart beat unceasingly for the unfortunate while his practical mind continually sought a remedy for their ills. Known as a man of the mines and deeply concerned in all that pertained to the well being of the miner, still his greatest desire was to aid all mankind who suffered. His one thought was the welfare of humanity. The heritage he leaves his family is one of great courage, high principles and supreme integrity. Those who knew him intimately saw in him the persistent champion of trade union ethics and a valiant fighter in the day to day struggle of the masses. He was ever pressing for the elimination of economic evils, for the establishment of right and justice between men so that life would be the better worth living for all the people. It is therefore Resolved, By the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, of which Mr. Mitchell was a member for many years, that we deeply grieve over the loss of so loyal a colleague and friend; that in his death American labor has lost a stout hearted champion and the world a great citizen. His faithful devotion to his country, to his family, to his union and to his conception of right were of an extraordinary nature. Resolved further, that we extend the sincere sympathy of the trade union movement to his devoted wife and children in their hour of sorrow.October 21, 1919. Mr. A.H. Billet, President, Mr. R.M. Sturgeon, Sec'y., York Federation of Trade Unions, Moul Bldg., York, Pa. Gentlemen:- President Gompers is very appreciative of the message contained in your letter of October 17 from the members of the York Federation of Trade Unions. He asks that I extend his sincere thanks for the kind expressions regarding himself and to tell you that he is much improved and his physician anticipates that before very long he will have fully recovered. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 28 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. George B. Johnson, Secretary, Oklahoma State Federation of Labor, 516 Baltimore Bldg., Oklahoma City, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will find copy of letter from the True American League of the White Brotherhood of the World. Can you give me any information regarding this organization? It is needless for me to tell you that I declined the offer, but I would like to have any information obtainable as to who and what they represent. Thanking you in advance, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl29 J.R. Lamb, Natl. Pres. TRUE AMERICAN HEADQUARTERS, W.R. Smith, EUFAULA, OKLAHOMA Natl. Secy. October 16th, 1919. Hon. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear President Gompers: Realizing the necessity of a better understanding between farmers and wage earners, and of more perfect union and co-operation; the two classes to aid each other in working out regulations beneficial alike to each class, and that a nation wide effort is in vogue to create prejudice between the two elements of our common citizenry; and that a solid compact of wage earners and farmers is essential to the adequate protection of both; We, therefore, hereby tender to you the high office of National Chief Executive of the True American League of the White Brotherhood of the World, and pray your good nature to accept the same. The functions of your office would be (1st) To advise with the National President of The True American League in relation to all important measures to be proposed in regard to the True American policies, and ect., (2) To place the True American policies with the various labor organizations and aid in a general federation of Farmers' and Laborers' organizations on the True American platform, this platform to be subject to such revisions as may be necessary for equal benefits to farmers and wage earners. (3) To present to the Legislative Department of the Federal Government, as may be agreed upon by the True American League and the Federation of Labor, bills for legislation. We are mailing to your address, under separate cover, our Manuals which will fully acquaint you with our principles and policies, copies of which have been filed with the Office of Markets; with the Department of Commerce and other Departments of the Government at Washington. We especially call your attention to our revised Manual, pages 2 to 9. Kindly advise us at your earliest convenience as to your acceptance of the office of National Chief Executive of the True American League of the White Brotherhood of the World. Sincerely yours, (Signed) J.R. Lamb __________________________________ Natl. Pres. T.A.L. W.R. Smith __________________________________ Natl. Secy. T.A.L. COPY30 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. J. R. Lamb, Nat'l., President, True American Headquarters, Eufaula, Oklahoma. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 16 received and contents noted. While I appreciate the honor conferred by your offer to me to be National Chief Executive of the True American League of the White Brotherhood of the World, I find that my duties and obligations are so exacting and pressing that I could not assume any additional obligations at this time. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.31 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. Robert C. Clothier, Vice-Pres., The Scott Company, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- This will acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 20, addressed to President Gompers, in which you enclose statement prepared by the Scott Company Laboratory and upon which you desire President Gompers' comment. I cannot give you any assurance when I will be able to bring the matter to his personal attention, as his entire time just not is fully engrossed with the work of the Presidential Industrial Conference, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Committee meetings, etc. But I will hold your communication with other documents which have been laid aside for Mr. Gompers' personal attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers32 EP October 21, 1919. Miss Hester Scott, Wendell, N. C. Dear Madam:- Your letter of October 14, addressed to President Gompers, received and contents noted. You say that you will shortly take part in a debate on the affirmative side of the question: "Resolved that Policemen Should have the Right to Join Labor Unions". You ask for data to be used by you in the preparation of your paper. On September 24 President Gompers appeared before the Senate Committee on the District of Columbis, when the Myers Resolution was under consideration. He discussed in detail before the committee the question of the policemen and their morale right to organize and affiliate with any body they migh desire, including the organized Labor movement, as represented by the American Federation of Labor. I would suggest that you endeavor to secure copy of that testimony. You might be able to get it through your Congressman. The entire matter was stenographically reported, tho as yet has not been printed, so far as I know. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.33 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. James M. Lynch, Department of Labor, State Industrial Commission, 230 Fifth Ave., New York City. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 17, until such time as he can personally reply. At present his time is so wholly engrossed with the work of the Presidential Industrial Conference, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Committee meetings, etc., as to permit him little or no opportunity to devote to his correspondence. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.34 EP October 21, 1919. Miss A. S. Purdy, Cookstown, New Jersey. Dear Madam:- Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 19, addressed to President Gompers. His time is so wholly engrossed at present with the work of the Industrial Conference, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Committee meetings, etc., as to permit him little or no opportunity to devote to his correspondence. Hence, this acknowledgement of your letter. Might I suggest that you get in touch with the officials of the New Jersey State Federation of Labor – Mr Henry Hilfers, Secretary, 68 South Orange Avenue, Newark, N.J. who I am sure will be glad to be of any assistance to you within his power. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President GompersEP October 21, 1919. Mrs. Norman Lewis Apt. 208, 1366 Pearl St., Denver, Colorado. Dear Madam:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your letter of October 15 and the suggestions contained therein. It was very good of you to take the time to write to him. I am happy to inform you that Mr. Gompers is considerably improved and his physician anticipates that before long he will have fully recovered. Very truly yours, R. Lee Gaurd Secretary to President Gompers.36 LAS/AS. October 20, 1919. Mr. Walter Oster, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Mascoutah, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your inquiry relative to your not receiving any remuneration for organizing a shirt factory and for trying to organize the teachers duly noted. Permit me to advise that the American Federation of Labor only pays its volunteer organizers for work performed in the organization of unions in direct affiliation. It is suggested that you take up the matter about which you write with the international unions in interest. The address of the American Federation of Teachers is as follows: Mr. Charles S. Stillman, President, 1620 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois. I take it that the shirt factory was organized under the United Garment Workers of America, the address or the Secretary being Mr. B. A. Larger, 117 Bible House, New York City. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor37 LFL. October 20, 1919 Mr. William H. Short, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 508 Maynard Building, Seattle, Washington. Dear Mr. Short:- Upon the request and recommendation of the Central Labor Council of Tacoma, Washington, a commission as volunteer organizer was issued on August 24th, 1917 to Mr. James H. Lyons, member of the teamsters' local union of that city. The policy which I have followed in the issuance of commissions to volunteer organizers is to have the applicant endorsed by the central body of his locality or if there is no central body, by the national or international union in which he holds membership. Likewise, when in the opinion of the central body it would be to the best interests of the labor movement for the commission to be discontinued and valid reasons are given therefor, I act accordingly,. In other words, the responsibility for the issuance of commissions as volunteer organizers and their withdrawal is placed, as far as possible, upon the central labor unions. On August 28th the Tacoma Central Labor Council requested the revocation of the commission issued to Mr. James Lyons stating that Mr. Lyons had used his influence against the Central Labor Council, advocating that local unions withdraw from the central body and interrupting and discrediting the work of the Council's paid organizer, William J. Beard. Mr. Lyon's commission was, therefore, withdrawn and the central body so notified on September 4th. President Daniel J. Tobin of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America, in behalf of Mr. Lyons, has brought to my attention correspondence from his Tacoma local which is, in reality, a protest against the withdrawal of Mr. Lyons' commission. Copy of the letter from the Teamsters' Local Union is enclosed herein. I assume that you are familiar with the whole situation. Before taking any further steps in the matter I would appreciate your advice. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience and with kind regards, I am,38 William H. Short-------#2 Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.39 INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS, CHAUFFEURS, STABLEMEN AND HELPERS OF AMERICA-- LOCAL NO. 313. Tacoma, Washington September 24, 1919. 923 Commerce Street. Mr. D.J. Tobin Gen'l Pres., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Just a little side light on the Junk Drivers situation. Along about August 11th, I was called on by the Organizer of the Central Labor Council to visit the Junk Drivers, and made a date for a meeting 4 P.M. That evening when I received a phone call to go I encountered tire trouble on my way there so I called up the C.L.C. office and tried to get the organizer, not being there, I called up another place and left word for him to make a date, and notify me, and I would be there, and he did for that night, but did not send word to me until that night at 9 P.M. at that time I was working on the Local Car and covered with dirt, and grease, I called the Central Council, but did not get an answer so I decided that they had adjourned and as it would take me an hour to wash up and get there it would be to late to go. The next monday another meeting was held and again I was not informed until the next day when the organizer informed me that Secretary Dickson had sent to the A.F. of L. for a Charter for the Junk Drivers and inside employes. I informed him that that charter could not be granted by that body and he requested me to write and get things straightened out, and I wrote to Secretary Hughes. The 3rd meeting had at this time been arranged, but I was not informed until that morning of the meeting when talking to one of the drivers and organizer Beard passed and expressed a disapproval of our Local taking these men in and said if you take them in you will get about 6 men and this way we will organize 45 or 50 (This man Beard is a vowed advocate of the One Big Union) That night40 #2. with Brother Lyons and Hanson nd I attended this meeting. With the men at this meeting was A.L. Dickson Secretary of the Central Council. I informed them that such an organization could not be formed as they wanted and advised them to join our Local. At this time they refused to take any cognizance of the letters and telegrams I had received from Brother Hughes and Secretary Morrison but instructed Dickson to write to the A.F. of L. and find out officially if this charter could not be granted. On September 8th, I was notified that there was a meeting of this same body by Dickson at 8 P.M. I arrived promptly at 8 and all were in session when I arrived and I was told point-blank by one of their number that they did not want to join 313 because this Local would not go out in the General Strike last winter. At this time a letter was read from our General Secretary regarding them that they would have to join this Local if they wanted to organize that no separate charter would be granted and they immediately wanted to organize an independent Industrial Union and take in all the warehouse men and the laborers that worked in the yard as well as the Drivers and asked Secretary Dickson if they could send a committee to the Council and be allowed to affiliate he told them that they could send a committee and state their case but he did not think that they could affiliate as they would be termed as a Insurgent Union, the same as we were, as we were not affiliated with the Council, but thought that could get a hearing, and get the support of the Council. After talking to them until almost 10 o'clock they voted unanimously to start an Independent Union and with the help of Secretary Dickson and organizer Beard both of them carrying organizers credentials from the A. F. of L. started the first Independent Union in this city with recognition from the Tacoma Central Labor Council, and a Union Shop Card. At the same41 #3. meeting Brother Lyons and Secretary Dickson got in to several verbal battles and he won the approval of Dickson so much that he Dickson complained to the Central Council to have Lyons commission cancelled with the A. F. of L. as an organizer stating as I am told that Lyons was trying to get other Locals to withdraw form the Council but the fact remains that he was working in the interest of our organization. In addition I am sending you a few clippings from different papers who have reports setting in the Councils during the meetings. The main reason for this Independent Union is a slap at this Local for withdrawing from the Council and as this Union has gained considerable confidence from different firms that we have been doing business with, we felt that our interest could not be jeoperdized with this Council. I have tried to give you all the information possible in a general way in as short a space possible and hope same will prove to be a benefit to you as I understand you will have some opposition when this matter comes up for a hearing in the A. F. of L. Executive Board Meeting. Hopeing to hear from you if there is any more data I can gather for you, I remain Fraternally yours, Wm.F. Dau, Sec-Treas Local 313.42 WCR:EJL Oct. 21,1919. Mr. E. R. Walker, Local Union No. 12, Internatl. Bro. Electrical Workers, 115 W. 14th Street, Pueblo, Colo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter stating that the Colorado Anti-picket Law has been violated many times without interference from the authorities, received. A law which takes away from the people some right which the Constitution guarantees is not likely to be obeyed or enforced. It might be a favorable opportunity to seek the repeal of the law. Thanking you for the information, and with best wishes for yourself, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.43 October 21,1919. My dear Mr. Brindell: I did not lose sight of the request contained in your letter of September 19th, and I did what I could in your behalf. I am only sorry that I was not successful. I have had rather a hard time of it this week but am getting better now and hope soon to be all right and to see you in New York. Sincerely yours, Saml Gompers. Mr. Robert P. Brindell, 1890 Daly Avenue, Bronx, New York City.44 LAB/AS. October 20, 1919. Mr. Thomas L. Hughes, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America, 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, INDIANA. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from Mr. J. W. Walker, Box 22, Chaffee, Missouri asking for information relative to the formation of a teamsters' union. I have informed Mr.Waller that these workers come under the jurisdiction of your international union and that I am requesting you to write him direct. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.45 LL October 21, 1919. Mr. J. M. Richie, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Rooms 823-24 Heed Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find a copy of letter I have just written to Secretary James Evans, Brass Bobbin Winders' Union No. 14659, your city, notifying them that the wage scale has been approved by the Executive Council. Please continue to advise and counsel with the local in securing the enforcement of their new scale, and advise me the final outcome of same. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.46 LL October 21, 1919. Mr. James Evans, Secretary, Brass Bobbin Winders' Union No. 14659, 2904 Almond St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to advise you that the wage scale submitted by your local for the approval of the Executive Council, was placed before that body and the same approved. This approval carries with it the authorization of your local to go out on strike, if necessary, in order to maintain your position and your members thereby be entitled to benefits from the defense fund, in accordance with Sections 4 and 5 of Article 13 of the Constitution. I sincerely trust, however, that it will not be necessary for your organization to have recourse to the extreme measure of going out on strike and I want to take this opportunity of expressing the hope that no action will be taken, without the matter being given careful consideration. I also trust that you will advise and counsel with Organizer Richie in any move that your organization takes in this matter. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.47 LL October 21, 1919. The New York Times, New York, N. Y. Gentlemen: Can you please furnish me with copy of the Magazine Section of your paper, dated March 24, 1918, which contains an article under the title, "Vital Need of Victory as Gompers sees it"? If so, kindly forward same, together will bill and greatly oblige. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.48 LL October 21, 1919. Mr. John O. Walsh, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 117 Fair Oaks St., San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 16th received and contents noted. I am pleased to hear that the agreement of the Optical Mechanics' Association No. 16232, has been accepted by the employers, with the exception of their Saturday half holiday, but the union received such good success at their first conference you urged them to accept it at this time, as you feared if a struggle ensued between both parties, you did not know how it would turn out. Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter I am today sending to Secretary Kern of this local, notifying them that the Executive Council approved their wage scale. Please continue to advise with them in any way you can and keep me advised as to the final outcome of the matter. I am pleased to note that things look brighter for the Picture Frame Workers who have been out on strike. I appreciate49 -2- very much the interest you have given to both of these locals. With kind regards and hoping yo hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.49 A LL October 21, 1919. New York Tribune Review, New York City, New York. Gentlemen: Can you furnish me with copy of your Sunday edition, dated August 19. 1917, containing article entitled "The Cabinet Splitting Question: Shall Labor Talk Peace?" If so, please forward same at your earliest convenience, together with bill and greatly oblige. Very truly yours, [signature of Sam Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor. LL October 21, 1919. Mr. E.J. Kern, Secretary, Optical Mechanics' Association No. 16232, 16th & Capp Sts., San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to advise you that the wage scale submitted by your local for the approval of the Executive Council, was placed before that body and same was approved. This approval carries with it the authorization of your local to go out on strike, if necessary, in order to maintain your position and the members thereby be entitled to benefits from the defense fund, in accordance with Sections 4 and 5 of Article 13 of the Constitution. I sincerely trust, however, that it will not be necessary for your organization to have recourse to this extreme measure of going out on strike and I want to take this opportunity of expressing the hope that no action will be taken unless the matter be given careful consideration. I am just in receipt of a letter from Organizer Walsh, in which he states that the employers have accepted all of your wage scale, except the Saturday half holiday. I am please to receive this information and trust your local will advise and 51 -2- counsel with Organizer Walsh in every move that it makes. With kind regards and wishing your local continued. success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.52 LFL. October 22, 1919 Miss Mary Anderson, Department of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Miss Anderson:- As per my conversation with you over the telephone yesterday afternoon, enclosed you will please find copy of the report which I referred to. When it has served your purpose, you will kindly return it to me. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure.53 Washington, D.C., October 21, 1919. Baron Pietro Arone di Valentino Charge d'affairs, Italian Embassy, 1759 R Street, Washington, D.C. permit me to tender my profound sympathy in the great loss which your government has sustained in the passing of Ambassador Macchi di Cellere. His high qualities and attainments commanded the greatest respect and esteem of all who knew him. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. OF L. 54 October 31, 1919 Mr. Victor Pujazon, Peruvian Labor Delegate, Care of Peruvian Consulate, New York City. Dear Sir:- Mr. Gompers is very grateful for your telegram of October seventeenth. I am happy to say that he is improving and his physician thinks he will have soon recovered his full strength and vigor. Very truly yours. R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.55 October 21st, 1919 Mr. Albert Rosenberg, 1220 W. Lanvale Street, Baltimore Maryland. Dear Sir:- Mr. Gompers is very grateful to you for your card of October eighteenth. I am happy to say that he is improving and his physician thinks he will have soon recovered his full strength and vigor. Very truly yours, R.Lee Guard Secretary to Mr. Gompers. 56 October 21,1919 Messrs. R. M. Sturgeon, Secretary, A.H. Billet, President, York Federation of Trade Unions, 112-114 South George Street, York, Pa. Gentlemen:- Mr. Gompers is very grateful to you for your letter of October seventeenth. I am very happy to say that he is improving and his physician thinks he will have soon recovered his full strength and vigor. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Mr. Gompers.57 LFL. October 21st, 1919 Miss Ida M. Tarbell, Hotel Pohatan Hotel, Washington, D.C. Dear Miss Tarbell:- You expressed the desire to Miss Thorne for a copy of the report of the conference called by President Gompers September 29th in which you participated. You will please find it enclosed herein. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure. LFL. October 31, 1919 Mr. John P. Frey, Editor, International Molders' Journal, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Mr. Frey:- Your letter of the 18th instant received and contents noted. I too had hoped that you might be able to be in Washington sometime during the Presidential Conference. They are still meeting. I have attended the meetings as frequently as I could but I have not attended all of them. Mr. Oyster is with Mr. Gompers and acts as one of the secretaries of the committee of fifteen. In the interim of the meetings of the conference and the committees of the conference, the Executive Council has been meeting ever since October sixth. Between them all you can very readily imagine that our days have been unusually strenuous. Now as to the Chief, he was simply tired out from over work and the Doctor made him go to bed for two or three days just in time to save him from being really sick. It was difficult to keep him in bed but he did stay there. I remained at the house with him practically all the time and kept in touch with the work of the Conference, etc. which I conveyed to him. In this way, he kept the labor group advised from time to time as to what was his opinion of circumstances and conditions as they developed in the conference. I think he has gotten over his attack and is now back at work as hard as ever. The Council was in session here at headquarters until eleven thirty last evening. It is very regrettable that the President is ill and cannot take any part in the conference. It is impossible yet to say just what will result from it but I suppose in a day or two the story will develop toward its end. You must have had a most interesting meeting with the Dear Brothers in Detroit. I fancy you enjoyed yourself tremendously. I shall not fail to read your article in the November Metropolitan magazine. Mr. Roberts and I were speaking about you yesterday. I only wish you could be here. Surely if there was ever a time in the history of Labor when every fighting man is needed, it is right now, Congress, having gone under Republican control has stated out actively to oppose labor and to hold labor to cound for ever evil in our industrial situation. If the Cummins' Bill59 John P. Frey------#2 is enacted into law, almost anything could happen then but I suppose we are simply caught on the wave of unrest; the world wide wage of inevitable reaction from the effects of the war. I suppose we will come through it as we have come through other things but it will require fighting, good generalship and the best of statesmanship. I am so very glad that Mr. Valentine has been able to serve on this commission and to be here all during the Executive Council meeting. Mr. Duncan has been here since the 8th, I believe, meeting with the Executive Council and holding conferences at times but he was not in any physical condition to permit himself to take part in the Presidential Industrial Conference much as he desired to do so. He say, however, that he thinks he is really better and before so very long he hopes to have fully recovered. Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.60 LFL. October 21, 1919 Messrs. Charles Hyeager, President, Thomas P. O'Brien, Business Agent, James P. Young, Secretary-Treasurer, American Railway Express Drivers, Chauffeurs and Helpers #623, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sirs:- President Gompers is very appreciative of your letter of October 18th and your kind expressions regarding himself. I am glad to advise you that he is much very much better and is now back in his office in the thick of the fight. He would write to you personally but for the fact that his entire time is engrossed with the work of the Presidential Industrial Conference, the meetings of the committees and sub-committees of that conference and the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is holding sessions at headquarters in the interim of the Industrial Conference. President Gompers will always be glad to hear from you at any time you may desire to write. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.61 LFL. October 31, 1919 Mr. C.W. Mitchell, General Chairman, Commercial Telegraphers Union of America, Division No. 53, Hazelton, B.C., Canada. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 8th instant addressed to President Gompers is just received and contents noted. As his time since October 6th has been entirely engrossed with the work of the Presidential Industrial Conference, the meetings of the committees and sub-committees of that conference and the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is holding sessions at headquarters in the interim of the Industrial Conference. He has therefore had no opportunity to give to his correspondence and it is for this reason that I am replying to your letter. You request any information that can be given you regarding Detective Agencies and their methods. Enclosed you will please find list of articles and editorials published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST of which President Gompers is editor and which deal with this subject. These could be furnish you for the amounts opposite each. Trusting that the above will be helpful to you, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure.62 Articles and editorials in American Federationist relative to Pinkertonism. Special Problem--Miners. (In the Philadelphia A.F. of L. Convention. Samuel Gompers). January 1915, Vol. 22 p. 31. . . . . . . . . . . $ .20 Who Is Responsible? Samuel Gompers, February 1913, vol. 20 P. 97. . . . . . . . . . . .30 Detective Burns Unmasked. Editorial July, 1912, vol. 19 P. 537. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 A Hue and Cry that Failed. Editorial May, 1912, vol. 19, p. 385. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Burns' Frenzy Running to Seed. Samuel Gompers. March, 1912, vol. 19, p. 205. . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 "The Higher Man Up" Outcry. Editorial, February, 1912, vol 19, p. 132. . . . . . . . . . . .35 Brutality in the Industrial Struggle, Samuel Gompers, November, 1911, vol. 18, p. 885. . . . . . . . . . .40 Van Cleave Unmasked. Editorial May, 1909, vol 16, p. 457. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Van Cleave Portrays Himself. . . . May, 1909, vol. 16, p. 429. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Turner, Van Cleave's Detectives, Exposed. Editorial March, 1909, vol. 16, p. 230. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Labor "Secrets" Exposed. Editorial, January, 1909, vol. 16, p. 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Pinkertonism and Organized Labor. Editorial, September, 1907, vol. 14, p. 673. . . . . . . . . . .6063 LFL. October 21, 1919 Mr. Canuto Vargas, Secretary, Pan American Federation of Labor, A.F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- As you recall, on September 10th I wrote to Honorable Carter Glass, Secretary of the Treasury sending him copy of the resolutions adopted by the second congress of the Pan American Federation of Labor regarding the appointment of labor representatives to the Pan-American Financial Conference which is to be held in January of next year, selected by the labor movements of the Pan-American countries concerned. Enclosed you will please find copy of the reply which I have received from Secretary Glass. You will note he says he is planning to add a number of members to the existing Group Committees and that he will be most happy to keep in mind the resolution transmitted to him. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.644 COPY LFL. THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY WASHINGTON October 15, 1919 My dear Mr. Gompers:- I have your letter of September 10. transmitting a copy of a resolution introduced by the delegation of the American Federation of Labor to the Second Congress of the Pan-American Federation of Labor and adopted by that Congress. I fully appreciate the importance of the matter which you have laid before me and also the desirability of having the great body of workers represented at any international conference at which questions of commerce, industry and finance are discussed. It is important, however, that I point out to you the rather exceptional organization of the Pan American Financial Conference. The First Conference was convened by the President in 1915, at the instance of Secretary McAdoo, with a view to having the Ministers of Finance of the Republics of America cover with the Secretary of the Treasury concerning the financial situation created by the outbreak of the European war. The Second Conference is convened for the purpose of according to the official delegations from Central and South America the opportunity to discuss with the Secretary of the Treasury the financial situation confronting the countries of the American continent at the close of the war. In fact, the Act authorizing the convening of the Conference reads, as follows: "The President is authorized to extend to the Governments of Central and South America an invitation to be represented by their ministers of finance and leading bankers, not exceeding three in number in each case, to attend the second Pan-American Financial Conference in the city of Washington, at such date as shall be determined by the President, with a view to carrying on the work initiated at the First Pan American Financial Conference."65 The selection of delegations by the countries of Latin America is a matter entirely within the province of the respective governments. The only official delegate on the part of the United States is the Secretary of the Treasury, with whom these delegations are expected to confer. I may add, however, that at the First Financial Conference in 1915, a series of Group Committees were organized, one for each of the Latin American countries. These group Committees are composed of citizens of the United States interested in Latin American affairs, and their function is to discuss with the respective official delegations the matters of mutual interest embodied in the program of the Conference. The members of these Group Committees are in no sense official delegates of the United States although they have a definite status at the Conference. I am planning to add a number of members to the existing Group Committees and will be most happy to keep in mind the resolution which you have been good enough to transmit to me. Very sincerely yours, (Signed) Carter Glass. Honorable Samuel Gompers, American Federation of Labor bldg. Washington, D.C.66 LFL. October 21, 1919 Miss Margaret Irving-Hamilton, Yale University School of Law, New Haven, Connecticut. Dear Madam:- President Gompers is deeply appreciative of your letter of October 20th and directs that I should acknowledge its receipt and say to you that he is unable to write to you personally owing to his time being wholly engrossed with the work of the Presidential Industrial Conference, the meetings of the committees and sub-committees of that conference and the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is bolding sessions at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor in the interim of the Industrial Conference. He thanks you for your letter and the sentiments you express. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.67 F Oct. 22, 1919. Mr. Archibald M. Hillman, Slater Bldg., Worcester, Mass. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 17th instant received, and in reply to your request I am sending you under separate cover copy of the pamphlet "Has The Non-Unionist A Right To Work, How, When and Where He Pleases". Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[68] LFL. October 22, 1919. Miss Ida M. Murphy, 329 West 127 Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Madam:- Your letter of October 20th received and contents noted. The best reply I can make to your question regarding the new political labor party is to enclose to you herein an address which I delivered in New York City some months ago. This address was fully endorsed by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor and later by the annual convention which met in Atlantic City, N.J. in June of this year. The pamphlet is commended to your serious consideration. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.69 LFL. October 22, 1919 Mr. F.A. Flinn, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, R.R. No. 1, Three Rivers, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of the 19th instant received and contents noted. I was glad to hear from you and particularly glad to know your hopeful and steady frame of mind in the face of obstacles which have been put in your way and pressure which has been brought to bear upon you to have you discontinue your active work in behalf of the labor movement. Of course no real true and loyal labor man would consider for a moment the proposition that was made to you to surrender your commission and discontinue your active work in behalf of your fellowmen. I congratulate you upon the stand you have taken. I shall be very glad to be of any help to you within my power. If you could make use of any additional literature for distribution among your fellow workers I should be very glad to send same to you. I note your reference to the detective who claims to hold membership in the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen. I have advised the officers of that organization regarding the matter and no doubt they will make an investigation. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.70 LFL. October 22, 1919 Mr. A. E. King, Secretary, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, American Trust Building, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which I have just received from Mr. Forest A. Flin, R. R. #1. Three Rivers, Michigan which speaks for itself. I hasten to give you the information he imparts for such action as you may be able to take thereon. In any event, I should appreciate your advice. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.71 COPY LFL. Three Rivers, Michigan, October 19, 1919 Mr. Samuel Gompers, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Conditions in this city are in such shape that it is difficult for an organizer to work as there is a movement on foot here to kill organized labor and is promoted by the Sheffield Car Company controlled by the Fairbanks Moose Company and it is strictly a scab shop and some of our city commissioners are threads of this company and they have a private detective here working in their interests. He has asked me to give up my commission and not try to encourage organized labor as they don't need it in this city. He is a man who claims to be a member of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen and has traveled this country from coast to coast and could not get a job at his trade; therefore he took up the work that he is at now and I claim he is in small business at that but we are hoping for the best. We are holding open meetings every two or three weeks and have been pronounced Bolshevist but they have been unable to prove the goods on us as yet. We have got them squirming in their nests and they have come out with this propaganda in the daily paper to fight organized labor but we are going to stay on the job just the same. We are American citizens and our rights must be recognized. Trusting this letter will not take up too much of your time I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) F.A. Flinn, Organizer, R. R. #1 Three Rivers, Michigan. P.S. This private detective's name is Marshall and he belonged to a local union in Chicago.72 LFL. October 22, 1919 Mr. C.W. Bowerman, Secretary, The Trades Union Congress Parliamentary Committee, 32 Eccleston Square, London, SW 1, England. Dear Mr. Bowerman:- Your letter of October 6th received. I am very glad to comply with your request by sending to you under separate cover two copies of the printed report of the proceedings of the Pan-American Federation of Labor Congress held in New York City last July. I trust they will reach you promptly. Reciprocating your good wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.73 LFL. October 22, 1919 Mr. Oscar Bradford, 5 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Mr. Bradford:- Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 19th in President Gompers' name and to thank you for sending him the copy of an article written for application to the pending situation at Washington. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.74 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. J.W. Sanford, Secretary, Cigarmakers' Union No. 129, 201 Railroad Bldg., Denver, Colo. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 15th received and contents noted. Enclosed herewith you will please find copy of letter I wrote to Acting President Hague, of the Tobacco Strippers' Union No. 10422, your city, advising them of the decision of the Executive Council on their application for strike benefits. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.COPY AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR Washington, D. C., Oct. 16, 1919. Miss Ethel Hague, Acting President, Tobacco Strippers' Union #10422, 800 14th St., Denver, Colo. Dear Madam: I beg to advise you that your application for lockout benefits was placed before the Executive Council at their meeting at headquarters for their consideration and same was not approved. The Executive Council decided that the application be denied as it is neither a strike or lockout in the sense required by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor in order to entitle the union to benefits. I sincerely trust a satisfactory settlement of the strike will soon be brought about and the members of your local return to work. With kind regards, I am, Your fraternally, (Signed) SAML. GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor. 76 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. M. E. Alarie, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 102 Suzanne St., Montreal, Quebec. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 16th received and I note what you say regarding the situation affecting Federal Labor Union No. 15964, and the Rubber Workers No. 16681. I also note copy of the statement of the company which you enclose. I am pleased to note the Rubber Workers have gone back to work and secured a statement from the company that they will keep to the agreement until March 1, 1920. With kind regards and thanking you for this information, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.77 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. J.E. Stacy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 209 S. Boss St., Kewanee, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 14th received and contents noted. I have carefully noted what you say in regard to the situation affecting the members of Federal Labor Union No. 16087, also your recommendation in regard to calling a strike at the present time, and that you will try and straighten out the situation to the best interest of the members. Please keep me advised in regard to this matter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.78 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. Joseph A. Wieber, Secretary, Hair Spinners' Union No. 12353, 3704 Old Frederick Road, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 18th received and contents noted. I thank you for sending me copy of your agreement which you state your local secured with the Wm. Wilkins Company, and I am gratified to note that an increase was granted amounting to 25 cents a man per day. This is certainly good news and I congratulate your local in securing this increase. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.79 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. Harry L. Eichelberger, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 803 Munsey Bldg., Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find a copy of letter just received from Secretary Jos. A. Wieber, Hair Spinners' Union No. 12353, your city, together with a copy of my reply, which I am sending you for your information. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.80 COPY HAIR SPINNERS UNION NO. 12353. Baltimore, Md., October 18, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuance of our communication in regard to promised increase in wages from the Wm. Wilkins Company, I am happy to inform you that same has been granted, increase amounting to twenty-five cents (25 cts.) per man per day was acquired and you will find enclosed a copy of agreement with increase noted in Section 6. Again thanking the American Federation of Labor, yourself, and Organizer Eichelberger, for the interest shown in our behalf, we begin to remain, Most sincerely yours, HAIR SPINNERS PROTECTIVE UNION 12353, A. F. of L. (Signed) JOS. A. WIEBER. Secty., 3704 Old Frederick Road, Baltimore, Md. Wages per men per day = $4.25.81 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. James A. Duncan, Secretary, Central Labor Council, Labor Temple. Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: - Your letter of October 14, received and contents noted. In reply permit me to say that any wage earner in good standing in the local union of his trade, affiliated in the American Federation of Labor, is eligible to election to any office within the gift of the organized labor movement. This includes Central Labor Unions; i.e. a member of any local union which is affiliated to a Central Labor Union is eligible to election to any office in the Central labor Union, provided the constitution of the Central Labor Union does not require that the officers shall be elected from the delegates to the Central Body. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor82 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. John H. Dailey, Secretary, Freight Handlers' Union No. 16700, 524 Va. Ave., Petersburg, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: In further reference to our correspondence in connection with the subject matter contained in your letter, I am enclosing herewith a copy of letter just received from President Jas. J. Forrester, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clarks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, which is self-explanatory. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.83 COPY BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY AND STEAMSHIP CLERKS FREIGHT HANDLERS EXPRESS AND STATION EMPLOYES Executive Offices: 409-11 A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. October 20, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Building. Dear Sir and Brother: With further reference to exchange of correspondence in connection with Freight Handlers' Union at Petersburg, Virginia, and the reinstatement of Mr. Dailey: As indicated in our letter yesterday we immediately took the matter up with Mr. C.D. Lane, our General Chairman of the Norfolk and Western by wire, and are in receipt of the following telegram: "Petersburg case being handled according provisions supplement seven now in hands general superintendent every effort being made hasten handling this case have no information from Petersburg indicating serious situation will communicate with Chairman at Petersburg have advised those people case being handled and no action must be taken until proper procedure has been followed out am insisting upon reinstatement of Dailey." It would appear from the foregoing that everything possible is being done but there is necessarily some delay on account of being compelled to go through the proper channel, which means a certain amount of routine. I shall be pleased to advise you further as soon as we are in receipt of additional information from Mr. Lane. With best wishes, I am, Yours fraternally, (Signed) JAS, J. FORRESTER. Grand President.84 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. J. J. Forrester, President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 20th received and I thank you for the additional information in regard to the Freight Handlers' Union No. 16700, Petersburg, Va., and beg to state that I am transmitting this information to our local today. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.85 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. Charles Perry Taylor, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 1285, Tacoma, Washington Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from the officers of Gas Workers' Union No. 15741, Seattle, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. I would appreciate it very much if you would get in touch with the officers of this local and be of all possible assistance to them in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of this matter and advise me just what has been done in regard to same. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.86 COPY GAS WORKERS UNION NO. 18741 Seattle, Wash. 10/13/19. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary of A. F. of L., Washington D. C. Sir: On September 6, 1919, our union was forced out on strike by the Seattle Lighting Company, at whose plant in Seattle our members were employed, and up to the present time we have been unable to come to any agreement with the company. Our last signed contract expired July 1, 1919, and just prior to its expiration, the company began discharging union men and replacing them with men opposed to organized labor. At the same time the foreman for the plant began a systematic attempt to disrupt our union by trying to persuade the members to no longer pay their dues, assuring them that they would be protected by the company in such refusal. During this time our executive board were endeavoring to negotiate a new agreement along the same lines as the last agreement which the company willingly signed a year ago. The president of our union was forced by un-American treatment to quit his job, and when the committee having in charge the negotiation of the new contract asked for some definite statement of the company's intentions regarding signing a contact, they were themselves the next day discharged. The union then gave the company until the following Saturday to reinstate these men who had been employes of the company for seven and eleven years respectively, and upon their refusal to even discuss the matter with the union, a vote was taken and it was unanimously decided to strike at ten o'clock Sept. 6th unless the right to collective bargaining was recognized by the Seattle Lighting Company. All overtures on the part of the union to discuss the matter with the officials of the company being ignored, the men quit their posts and have not since returned to their former employment. The strike was a complete demonstration of solidarity of sentiment, only two men of organized labor staying on the job. The company has gotten together a crew of strike breakers and g[u?]nmen, and have persistently refused to deal with their former employes except as individuals, so that the fight bids fair to be a long one.87 -2- We as a union take this occasion to place our case before the Executive Board of the A. F. of L. for their official approval of our action, and ask that we be granted such strike benefits as we are entitled to. Most of our members are men of family, and the funds in our own treasury are already exhausted. Very respectfully, (Signed) H. J. PHILLIPS, Business Agt. and Acting President AMOS RUSIE, Secretary. 88 LL October 22, 1919. Messrs. H. J. Phillips, Acting President and Amos Rusie, Secretary, Gas Workers' Union No. 15741, 5770 26th Ave., N. E., Seattle, Wash. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Your letter of October 13th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for reply. You state that your local union was forced out of strike by the Seattle Lighting Company, at whose plant your members are employed, and up to the present time you have been unable to come to any agreement with the company; that your contract expired July 1, 1919, and just prior to its expiration the company began discharging union men and replacing them with men opposed to organized labor. During this time your Executive Board were endeavoring to negotiate a new agreement along the same lines as the last agreement which the company willingly signed a year ago, and you ask that case be placed before the Executive Board of the American Federation of Labor for their official approval of your action and that strike benefits be granted to your members. Let me say, in reply, that Section 2 of Article 13, of the Constitution states as follows: "In the event of a disagreement between a Local Union and an employer which, in the opinion of the Local President of the American Federation of Labor, who shall investigate, or cause an investigation to be made of the disagreement, and endeavor to adjust the difficulty. If his efforts should prove futile, he shall take such steps as he may deem necessary in notifying the Executive Council, and if the majority of said Council shall decide that a strike is necessary such Union shall be authorized to order a strike, but that under no circumstance shall a strike or lockout be deemed legal, or moneys expended from the defense fund on that account, unless the strike or lookout shall have been first authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council."89 -2- In regard to your application for benefits, I will state that your organization disqualified itself by ordering a strike before your demands were submitted to the Executive Council for their approval. Provisions regulating the conduct of organizations presenting demands are written into the laws of the American Federation of Labor. The officers of the organizations in enforcing these laws. They have no authority to waive the law or to do other than to see it that the requirements are fulfilled. We endeavor to impress upon organizations the necessity of observing the requirements to avoid circumstances of this character. There is a very large membership directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor and the funds created for the defense of unions seeking betterment of conditions must be safe guarded. If exception were made in granting benefits without requiring the fulfillment of the laws, there would be no regularity and we might find ourselves in a position where the officers of the American Federation of Labor would not be in position to fulfill the pledge of the American Federation of Labor to grant financial assistance to those members who comply with the laws and are consequently eligible. Therefore, I again state that your local union forfeited strike benefits before the Executive Council had opportunity to pass on your demands. I am, however taking this matter up with our General Organizer, Mr. Charles Perry Taylor, Box 1285, Tacoma, Washington, asking that he be of all assistance to your local in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of this matter. I sincerely trust your local will be successful in winning this strike and hope you will advise me the final outcome of same. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.90 LL October 22, 1919. Mr. William Mitchell, Secretary, Warehouse Employes' Union No. 15480, 111 N. Pearl Street, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 16th received and contents noted. You state that your strike is partly settled and that two members of your local were not taken back and still unemployed and entitled to strike benefits for two weeks. Let me say, in reply, that your local union is not entitled to strike benefits from the defense fund of the American Federation of Labor. Section 2 of Article 13 of the Consitution states as follows: "In the event of a disagreement between a Local Union and an employer which, in the opinion of the Local Union, may result in a strike, such Union shall notify the President of the American Federation of Labor, who shall investigate, or cause an investigation to be made of the disagreement, and endeavor to adjust the difficulty. If his efforts should prove futile, he shall take such steps as he may deem necessary in notifying the Executive Council and if the majority of said Council shall decide that a strike is necessary such Union shall be authorized to order a strike, but that under no circumstances shall a strike or lockout be deemed legal, or moneys expended from the defense fund on that account, unless the strike or lockout shall have been first authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council." Therefore, your local forfeited benefits by going on strike before the Executive Council had an opportunity to pass on your demands. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. [91] LL October 22, 1919. Mr. Henry Streifler, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 36 Northumberland Ave., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I am pleased to receive the information that the situation affecting the members of Warehouse Employes' Union No. 15480, has all cleared up, that the strike has been settled and all the members have returned to work with an agreement satisfactory to both sides. Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter I have just received from William Mitchell, Secretary of this local, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. I will be pleased to receive a copy of the agreement which was entered into and upon which basis the strike was settled. With kind regards and thanking you for the attention you have given this local, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.92 COPY WAREHOUSE EMPLOYES UNION NO. 15480 Buffalo, N.Y., Oct. 16, 1919. Dear Sir and Brother: At our regular meeting, which was held last night, I was instructed to notify you, our strike is partly settled, and that the following two brothers reported, they were not taken back, and as they are still unemployed will be entitled to strike, benefits for two weeks. Frank Malloy, 104 E. Genesee St. Mathew Houser, 23 Titus Ave. I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) WM. MITCHELL[*93*] LL October 22, 1919. Mr. Willie K. Brown, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 407 N.Y. Ave., Peoria, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 11th received and contents noted. You give report of your investigation of the new proposed wage scale of Federal Labor Union No. 16891 and I note what you say regarding the membership, also the different sub-plants where the members of this local are working. I am also pleased to note that you advised the local to perfect their organization and by doing so, they will be more successful in reaching their new agreement. You submit bill for expenses in connection with this matter and I am enclosing herewith check for same. Further reply to your letter regarding the policemen of Peoria, will receive attention in a separate communication With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor Enclosure.[*94*] October 21st, 1919 Mr. Jose V. Cahue, Ex-President, Confederacion de Artesanos, 332 Paita, Lima, Peru, Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of September 23rd received and contents noted. In it you advise me that within a short time you feel assured that the Peruvian Federation of Labor will be in a position to transmit to the Treasurer of the Pan-American Federation of Labor, Mr. James Lord, the amount of its per capita tax, $625.00. I trust that your expectations will be speedily carried out. I note what you say in the concluding paragraph of your letter that Secretary Canuto Vargas and myself should be made honorary members of your organization, and that a certificate and medal be extended to me as a recognition of fairness and justness while dealing with the resolution presented by the Peruvian Delegation at the New York Congress. It is good of you to believe that I was able to render the Peruvian delegation some good during the New York meeting. I beg to assure you of my appreciation of this action of your Board and to assure you further of my desire so long as I may live to be of every possible help to my fellow workers and my fellowmen the world over. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers Chairman, Pan-American Federation of Labor.95 October 21st, 1919. Mr. Canuto Vargas, Secretary, Pan-American Federation of Labor, A.F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will please find a copy of a letter which has just been received from Mr. Jose V. Cahus, Ex-President Confederation de Artesanos, "Union Universal", Lime, Peru, 332 Paita, Lima, Peru, together with carbon copy of my reply which I am sending to you for your information and for your records. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers Chairman, Pan-American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.[*96*] Lima,(Peru), Sept. 23, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Chairman, Pan-American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th inst, and beg to inform you that I have handed it to the new president, comrade Emilio Quine, and note that our attention is called to the resolution adopted by the New York Congress with reference to the division of the expenses among the countries represented, $625.00 per year being the share that corresponds to Peru. In a general meeting I have informed our Federation of the resolutions adopted at that Congress, and calling special attention to the above resolution. We are awaiting the return of Comrade Octavio de los Heros, President of the International Labor Center, who is at present in Ecuador, and immediately upon his return we will give our attention to thematter, and I am sure that within a short time we will remit the $625.00 to the Treasurer of the Pan-American Federation of Labor, Bro. James Lord. A short time ago the new officers of our organization were elected, Comarade Emilio Quine having been elected President. He was First- Vice-President during the three years that I was President of our organization. Within a few days you will receive a copy of the new directory. In mentioning above the International Labor Center, whose president we are expecting in a few days, I do so because that is the central organization to which all the organizations of the capital and out of the capital are affiliated, and whatever steps that organization may take in reference to the resolutions of the New York Congress will be more effective. Upon giving my report I have suggested that you and Bro. Canuto Vargas be made honorary members of our organization, and that a certificate and medal be extended to you as a recognition of y our marked fairness and justice while dealing with the resolution presented by the Peruvian Delegation at the New York Congress. In conclusion I wish to say that I, as well as my fellow-delegates have been greatly impressed with your unceasing activities in behalf of the working people of your country and for the marked interest you take in behalf of the workers of all the world. Fraternally yours, JOSE V. CAHUS, Ex-President Confederacion de Artesanos "Union Universal", Lima, Peru. and Peruvian Delegate to New York Congress. Address: 332 Paita, Lima, Peru.[*97*] MC. Oct. 22, 1919. Mr. John C. Scofield, Asst. and Chief Clerk, War Department, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: - In talking to your office a week or so ago we were promised six copies of "A Report of the Activities of the War Department in the Field of Industrial Relations During the War". Up to date same has not been received. Will you kindly furnish us with copies of same, and oblige Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*98*] Washington, D. C., October 23, 1919 O. A. Babcock, Watertown, N.Y. Have referred your telegram to President Golden of Textile Workers. Samuel Gompers, Charge A.F. of L. Operator: Please locate O.A. Babcock, Watertown, N.Y. This telegram is in reply to one received from him dated Watertown, N.Y., October 22, 11ny ma 32n 1 5 exa 121am. Washington, D.C., October 23, 1919 Mr. John Golden, Moose Hall, Baltimore, Maryland. Telegram received today from Building Trades Council, Watertown, New York asking that organizer be sent immediately to organize women in the Toopey Silk Mill of that city. Samuel Gompers. Charge A.F. of L.99 F Oct. 22, 1919. Hon. Zebulon Weaver, House of Representatives U.S., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 20th instant received and content noted. For information on the subject of Compulsory Arbitration I refer you to the following issues of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official magazine of the American Federation of Labor. Compulsory Arbitration, Editorial September 1894, Vol. 1, page 147. No Compulsory Arbitration, Editorial October 1900, Vol. VII, page 317. Compulsory Arbitration, by Henry Cohen, March 1901, Vol. VIII, page 72. Compulsory Arbitration--Its Real Purpose Disclosed. Editorial, April 1901, Vol. VIII, page 120. Compulsory Arbitration in the Railroad Engineers Award by Samuel Gompers, January 1913, Vol.XX, p. 17. Tying Workers to their Tasks through Compulsory Government "Investigation" by Samuel Gompers, Feb. 1913, Vol.XX, page 115. Industrial Peace - Sins Committed in its Name. Editorial, March 113. Vol.XX, page 209. Boss Foss Threat - New White Slave Law Editorial. Nov. 1913. Vol. XX, page 923. Lessons for Compulsory Arbitrationists, Editorial. April 1914, Vol. XXI, page 316. Australasian Labor Regulating Schemes, by Samuel Gompers, April 1915, Vol. XXII, page 253. Compulsory Arbitration's Latest Evangelist, Editorial. September 1914, Vol. XXI, page 731. And Yet they Would Wish It On Us. BY Samuel Gompers. May 1915. Vol. XXII, page 333.100 Hon. Zebulon Weaver --#2. Invasion by Commission, Editorial October 1915, Vol. XXII, page 853. That Invasion By Commission Editorial, December 1915. Vol. XXII, page 1041. Benevolent (?) Compulsion in Colorado, by Samuel Gompers June 1916. Vol. XXII, page 437. Compulsory service of Freedom - Which? by Samuel Gompers October 1916, Vol. XXIII, page 929. January 1917 issue FEDERATIONIST. You will find very interesting statements on compulsory arbitration in the Hearing before the Senate Committee on Interstate Commerce upon the Adamson Law. Under separate cover I am sending you several copies of the address by the undersigned before the Arbitration Conference held at Chicago, Ill, under the auspices of the National Civic Federation. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.101 LFL. October 23, 1919. Mr. Warren Robinson, Editor, Alumni Department THE WISCONSIN TIMES, Director, Bureau of Statistics, Wisconsin Asso. of the Deaf, Delavan, Wisconsin Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 20th received and contents noted. You ask for data regarding my life to be used by the Phoenix Literary Society. There have been a number of biographical sketches written of me from time to time. I have requested my secretary to get some of these references together and a schedule of them will be enclosed herein. When the matter is put in shape for your society, I would appreciate it if you would let me have a copy of it. Thank you for your kind expressions regarding myself. I am naturally very tired from the heavy and constant work, yet I have recovered from my temporary illness of ten days ago and I am as hard at work and fighting as unyieldingly as ever. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.102 EP October 21, 1919. Mr. Cecil A. Ross, Superintendent, Special Library, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass. Dear Sir: - Your letter of October 17 received and contents noted. Regarding the complete set of bound Proceedings of the annual conventions of the American Federation of Labor. I fear it will not be possible to send them to you free of charge. Some years ago the copies of the Proceedings of the early years of the convention became exhausted. The next convention ordered that they be reprinted. Of course, the reprinting of these volumes was a considerable expense to the Federation. We have, therefore, prepared to furnish complete sets at a charge that is just sufficient to cover the cost of printing, handling and expressage, that is $28.00. By all means you should have these volumes in your Reference Library. You should also have the bound volumes of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. The first eight years have become exhausted. We could furnish you the bound AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, commencing with Volume IX, January, 1902 up to and including Vol. XXV, 1918, at $59.00. Then you should also have the various pamphlets published by this office, as per the enclosed lists, Let me say further that for the past six months I have had an expert man preparing a topical index of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. We hope to have that ready for publication by the first of the year. Hoping to hear from you further, I am Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.103 LFL. October 23, 1919 Mr. H. W. Scandlin, Associate Editor, WORLD OUTLOOK, 150 Fifth Avenue, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October sixteenth addressed to President Gompers, 2 East 23rd Street, New York, N.Y., and to advise you that as President Gompers' time has been entirely engrossed with the work of the Presidential Industrial Conference, the meetings of the committees and subcommittees of that conference and the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is holding sessions at headquarters in the interim of the Industrial Conference, there has been no opportunity to bring your letter to his attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 104 LFL. October 23, 1919 Mr. Mark L. Crawford 4878 Sheriden Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Mr. Crawford:- Your two letters addressed to President Gompers have just been received. He has asked me to acknowledge their receipt and to assure you of his very great appreciation of the manuscript you enclosed, being a brief account of the early history of the American Federation of Labor. It will be of the greatest value to him in the work he is now doing. President Gompers would write you personally but for the fact that his entire time is engrossed with the Presidential Industrial Conference, the meetings of the committees and sub-committees of that conference and the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which is meeting at headquarters in the interim of the Industrial Conference so that he has had no time to give his personal correspondence attention. He hopes to write you personally at a later date. Again thank you, I am, Very truly yours, R Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 105 LFL. October 23, 1919 Mr. Benjamin Meiman, Jewish Daily Forward, 420-[?] Warner Street, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- Replying to your letter of the twenty-second instant I beg to say that as yet I have not been advised by the Department of State what action has been taken upon the memorandum I submitted to the Department relative to the Jewish War Orpahsn, Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labror. 106 LFL. October 23, 1919 Mr. Pedro Gomes Rouhaud, 301 West 85th Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 20th received. President Gompers will appreciate your inquiries regarding his health and the kind of sentiments you express. He has recovered from the effects of his temporary illness of last week. His physician put him to bed for several days just in time to prevent him from getting really sick. At the first opportunity, I shall now fail to advise him of your letter. Since October sixth his entire time has been engrossed with the Presidential Industrial Conference, the meetings of the committees and sub-committees of that conference and the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which has been meeting at headquarters in the interim of the Industrial Conference. Therefore, he has had no opportunity to have brought to his attention any matters other than those directly connected with these matters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. 107 LFL. October 23, 1919 Mr. John Aubel Kratz, Secretary Baltimore City College, Baltimore Teachers Union No. 115, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letters of the eighteenth instant received and contents noted. In reply permit me to refer you to the following editorials and articles published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor of which I am the editor: The Trade Union Principle Wins a New Advocate. Editorial. July 1913, vol. 20, p. 136. A Lesson from France, Editorial (Indicates dangers to trade unions from extending the authority of the government. French Government compels dissolution of teachers' unions.) February, 1913, vol. 20, p. 136. Teachers. Their duty and ours. Editorial. July, 1914, vol. 21, p. 562 Teachers' Right to Organize Affirmed. Editorial December, 1914, vol. 21, p. 1083. Teachers Must be Free to Te ach. Editorial August, 1915, vol. 22 p. 607. Teachers' Right to Organize. Editorial October, 1915, vol. 22, p. 857. Teachers' Service and Rights, Editorial November, 1915, vol. 22, p. 981. Teachers' Freedom through Organization. Editorial June, 1916, vol.23 p. 476 The American Federation of Teachers. Margaret Snodgrass. September, 1916, vol. 23, p. 788. Freedo 108 Mr. John Aubel Kratz----#2 You can very easily consult the file of the magazine at the office of the Baltimore Federation of Labor, 26, Franklin Building, Baltimore, Maryland. Permit me to thank you, and through you the officers and members of your local union for your kind expressions regarding myself. I am very glad to say that I have recovered from my indisposition and am as hard at work as ever I was in my life. Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 109 LFL. October 23, 1919 Mr. Ernest H. Pett, 271 Langdon Street, Madison, Wisconsin. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 18th instant received and contents noted. In reply, permit me to refer you to the following articles and editorials published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official monthly magazine of the American Federation of Labor: Vanishing of Capitalist "Unionism". Editorial August, 1914, vol. 20, p. 640 Rockefeller Organizes and Recognizes a Union. Edotproa; November, 1915, vol. 22, p. 975. Cats Making Laws for Mice. Editorial September, 1916, vol. 23, P. 842. You can very easily consult the file of the magazine at the office of Madison Federation of Labor,, 842 East Washington Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin. Very truly yours, Sam. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 110 LFL October 23, 1919 Mr.George Allen Guille, 209 Gilfillan Block, Saint Paul, Minnesota. Dear Sir:- Permit me to acknowledge, In President Gompers' name receipt of your letter of October 20th enclosing pamphlet. President Gompers will appreciate your courtesy in sending this pamphlet to him. Very truly your, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.111 LFL. October 23, 1919 Mr. E. W. Leonard, General Organizer, United Association of Plumbers and Stem Fitters of United States and Canada, 411-16 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: - Your letter of September 18th addressed to Secretary Frank Morrison has just been brought to my attention. In reply I beg to advise you that the resolutions regarding the resignation of Mr. Alpine, and authorized by the Atlantic City Convention, of the American Federation of Labor have been drafted and in due course of time will be suitably engrossed and presented to Mr. Alpine. Mr. Alpine wrote me a few days ago regarding his resignation as President of the United Association of Plumbers and Stem Fitters of United States and Canada. I deeply regret that he has severed his official connection with the organized labor movement. He will be missed in the United Association of Plumbers no less than he will be and is missed in the counsels of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.112 LAS/AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. J. J. Forrester, President Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find herein the original letter with enclosures received from B. M. Shepherd of the Order of Railway Expressmen, Garden City Lodge No. 13, San Jose, California. I wish you would furnish me with full information relative to this organization so the same may be placed on file for future reference. As soon as I hear from you I shall write Mr. Shepherd to the effect that your organization has complete jurisdiction over railway expressmen. Kindly return to me the enclosures with your reply. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor Encl.113 AS. Oct. 23, 1919. Mr. J. L. Pauley, Secretary-Treasurer West Virginia State Federation of Labor, 11 Arcade Bldg., Charleston-Kanawha. W.VA. 17th October E. L. Taylor the State of West Vriginia. West Virginia [Sam. Gompers.]114 AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. D. S. Wenrick, Recording Secretary The Central Labor Union, 211 Locust Street, Harrisburg, PA. 20th October J. R. Hurst Harrisburg and vicinity. Harrisburg [Sam. Gompers]115 LAS/AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. William A. Loos, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 726 Third Street, La Salle, ILLINOIS, Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 19th received and the various subjects therein duly noted. Relative to the securing of a charter for "taxi men" I cannot but advise you other than I did under date of August 16th, to the effect that the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America have jurisdiction over these workers, and I would suggest that you communicate again with Mr. Thomas L. Hughes explaining to him the fact that "taxi men" desire a separate local union, for any charter that may be issued must come through the above international union. With best wishes, and trusting to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.116 LAS/AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. John Golden, President United Textile Workers of America, Moose Hall, Baltimore, MARYLAND. Dear Sir and Brother: I have received several communications from Mr. Louis Mundia, Box 5C9, Lodi, N.J., a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, in which he advised me that there are about 8,000 employees working as silk finishers and dyers of silk who desire organization. He requests a representative be sent to the above city. I have informed Mr. Mundia that these workers, no doubt, come under the jurisdiction of your organization and that I would write you requesting that your send an organizer to Lodi and also communicate direct with Mr. Mundia. Thanking you in advance for your attention to this matter, I am Fraternally yours Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*117*] LAS/AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. Louis Mundia, P. O. Box 559, Lodi, N. J. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 20th, furnishing me the information in accordance with my letter to you of October 14th, received. Since you state these workers are silk finishers and dyers it is my opinion that they come under the jurisdiction of the United Textile Workers of America, and I am today communicating with President John Golden, Room 86, Bible House, New York, N.Y. requesting that he endeavor to send a representative to your city to take up the work. I have also suggested that he communicate direct with you. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.118 LAS/ AS. October 23, 1919. Mr. John M. Norland, Secretary-Treasurer International union of Timber Workers, 202 Maynard Building, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: On April 8th, 1914 the International Shingle Weavers recommended Mr. J. Fox, R.F.D.#1, Lake Bay, Washington to receive a volunteer organizer's commission. This office is in receipt of a Postoffice notice to the effect that organizer Fox has moved and left no address. I wish you would inform me if he is now active in the work, and if so please furnish me his present address. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.119 AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. J. F. Anderson, Vice-President International Association of Machinists, 301 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. October 20th F. A. Sanderson the United States. the United States [signed] Saml Gompers[*120*] LAS/AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. J. J. Forrester, Grand President Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, 409 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 20th received and contents noted. I beg to state that a general United States of America Volunteer organizer's commission was issued to Brother L. W. Lowry on October 20th, 1919. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*121*] Washington, D. C., October 23, 1919 LFL. Duncan McDonald, President, Victor A. Olander, Secretary, Convention, Illinois State Federation of Labor, Peoria, Illinois. Telegram just received. Executive Council American Federation of Labor before its adjournment Tuesday evening adopted declaration calling for a conference to be held at Washington at early date to deal with several of the subjects contained in your message. Trust convention Illinois State Federation harmonious and successful in every way. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L.122 LAS/AS. October 28, 1919. Mr. F. P. Reinemeyer, Secretary-Treasurer Brotherhood of Boiler Makers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America, 7 Law Building, Kansas City, KANSAS. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication from Mr. Martin L. Payne, 3645 Gilpin Street, Denver, Colorado in which he states that he is eligible to join the Boiler Makers' Union but is barred because he is a colored man. I have informed Mr. Payne that this was a matter for consideration of your organization and that I would write you asking that you communicate with him direct. We have on file in this office a copy of a communication forwarded by General-Vice-President Joe Flynn to Shipyard Laborers' Union 5922 of Newport News, Virginia to the effect that your Executive Council was to take up the question of admitting colored men to your organization at its meeting on October 13th. In order that we may have this information on file may I ask that you please advise me of the decision rendered upon this matter? With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.123 LAS/AS. October 22, 1919. Mr. Martin L. Payne, 3645 Gilpin Street, Denver, Colorado. Dear Sir: Your favor of October 15th received and contents noted. Your bring to my attention the fact that your being a colored man are barred from joining the Brotherhood of Boiler Makers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America. This is a matter for the attention of the International Union of the Brotherhood of Boiler Makers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America, Mr. F. P. Reinemeyer, Secretary-Treasurer, 7 Law Building, Kansas City, Kansas and I am bringing the matter to his attention today with the request that he communicate with you direct. You no doubt will hear from Secretary-Treasurer Reinemeyer at an early date. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.124 VLY October 23, 1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO, 177. Mr. Jonas Robinson, Secretary, The chartered Society of Amalgamated Lace Operatives of America, 545 West Lehigh St. , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just closed its meeting at headquarters. The various matters referred to the E. C. by the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor were taken up for consideration and action, as the meeting just closed is the first regular meeting of the E. C. held since the convention. One of the subjects receiving the consideration of the E. C. was the amalgamation of the several organizations of textile workers. Enclosed you will please find copy of the report made by the Executive Council to the Atlantic City convention of the A. F. of L. entitled "Proposed Amalgamation of Textile Workers." You will also find en- closed the recommendation of the committee upon this subject, which was approved by the convention. You will note that the Executive Council recommended, and the convention approved, that the time for amalgamation to be carried into effect should be extended to September 1, 1919. The meeting of the E. C. just closed was the first opportunity that the Executive Council has had to consider the above subject matter. The E. C. directed that the time for amalgamation be extended until December 31, 1919. The undersigned was directed by the E. C. to write to the three organizations calling their attention to the action of the St. Paul and the Atlantic City Conventions, to urge compliance therewith, and to advise you that in the event of any one of the organizations failing to comply therewith, its charter will stand revoked on the date named, that is, December 31, 1919. In the best interests of the workers in the textile trades, of the organizations of the textile trades, and of the entire labor125 2 movement, I earnestly hope that amalgamation will be affected within the time limit designated by the Executive Council. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor Enclosure.126 This letter was also written to Mrs. Sara Conboy, Secretary of the United Textile Workers, and handed to her by Mr. Gompers at the Textile Workers' convention at Moose Hall, Baltimore, Maryland. VLY October 22, 1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 177. Mr. Urban Fleming, Secretary, Spinners' International Union, 136 Lyman St., Holyoke, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just closed its meeting at headquarters. The various matters referred to the E. C. by the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor were taken up for consideration and action, as the meeting just closed is the first regular meeting of the E. C. held since the convention. One of the subjects receiving the consideration was the amalgamation of the several organizations of textile workers. Enclosed you will please find copy of the report made by the Executive Council to the Atlantic City convention of the A. F. of L. entitled "Proposed Amalgamation of Textile Workers." You will also find enclosed the recommendation of the committee upon this subject, which was approved by the convention. You will note that the Executive Council recommended, and the convention approved that the time for amalgamation to be carried into effect should be extended to September 1, 1919. The meeting of the E. C. just closed was first opportunity that the Executive Council has had to consider the above subject matter. The E.C. directed that the time for amalgamation be extended until December 31 31, 1919. The undersigned was directed by the E. C. to write to the three organizations calling their attention to the action of the St. Paul and the Atlantic City Conventions, to urge compliance therewith, and to advise you that in the event of any one of the organizations failing to comply therewith its charter will stand revoked on the date named, that is, December 31, 1919. In the best interests of the workers in the textile trades, of the organizations of the textile trades, and of the entire labor127 8 movement, I earnestly hope that the amalgamation will be effected within the time limit designated by the Executive Council. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.128 October 24, 1919 J. H. Tighe, 23 Douglas Street. St. John, N. H., Canada. Your wire received. Sending you report blanks and red book containing list of secretaries and other data necessary for organizers. FRANK MORRISON. Charge, A. F. of L.129 Washington, D. C., October 24th, 1919 CABLEGRAM Santiago Iglesias, Box No. 270, San Juan, Porto Rico. Thank you for letter and invitation. Have entirely recovered. GOMPERS. Charge A.F. of L.130 LAS/AS. October 22,1919. Mr. W. H. Richmond, Organizer American Federation of Labor, R. # 2, West Frankfort, ILL. Dear Sir and Brother: Your telegram of the 21st instant received. Under date of October 11th I forwarded you a book of Instructions to Organizers. Since you state the same has not been received I am enclosing another copy herein. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Encl.131 LAS/AS. October 23/1919. Mr. Charles Hamlin, Secretary-Treasurer Kansas State Federation of Labor, Labor Temple, Pittsburgh, KANSAS Dear Sir and Brother: In accordance with your favor of October 20th, since Organizer John Gore is no longer active in the work and you do not know his present address, he is being dropped from our records. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.132 LAS/AS. October 23,1919. Mr. E. F. Davis, Secretary Kanawha Valley Central Labor Union, Box 1105, Charleston, W. VA. Dear Sir and Brother: Since your organization on May 29th, 1919 recommended to receive a commission as volunteer organizer Mr. C. R. Conner, I am enclosing herein a copy of a communication received from the West Virginia State Federation of Labor, being a complaint against Organizer Conner and asking the undersigned to make an investigation of the matter. Kindly write me fully at as early a date as possible relative to the activities of Organizer Conner and advise me if you are aware of any instances wherein his work has interfered with the progress of the State Federation. Trusting to hear from you at an early date, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Encl. 133 LAS/AS. October 23, 1919. Mr. J. L. Pauley, Secretary-Treasurer State Federation of Labor, Charleston- Kanawha, W.VA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 21st received and contents noted, the same being a complaint against Organizer C. R. Conner of Clarksburg, W. Virginia. In reply I might state that Organizer Conner was recommended by the Kanawha Valley Central Labor Union and was issued a district organizer's commission under date of May 29th, 1919, and I am therefore writing to the above organization asking that they furnish me with full information relative to Organizer Conner's activities and as soon as I hear from the organization I will be glad to write you further. You state in your communication that President Rogers and Vice- President Kidd of your State Federation of Labor can furnish further information relative to the above, and it is, therefore, suggested that you have them forward me a statement relative to the complaint[*134*] -2- so that this office will have full information. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.135 LAS/AS. October 23,1919. Mr. O. G. Lepps, Secretary-Treasurer Milwaukee Mailers Union No. 23, 1354 Dousmann Street, Milwaukee, WISC. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 16th received and contents noted. Since your organization is a component part of the International Typographical Union I would suggest that you take up the matter of your inquiry with your international officers. This is in accordance with the established customs of the American Federation of Labor in matters of the nature as contained in your favor to me. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.136 AS. October 23,1919. Mr. George Barrett, Secretary Belmont Central Trades and Labor Assembly, Bellaire, OHIO. October 20th Robert Edwards Belmont County Belmont County Saml Gompers.137 WCR:EJL Oct. 24, 1919. Mr. J. M. Bines, Secretary, Central Labor Union, #6 Kennedy Court, Charleston, S. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter enclosing a new Constitution for the Central Labor Union (Colored) received. You ask for approval of the same. It has been rewritten to conform to the laws of the American Federation of Labor and contains all the principles which you had in your draft. The Constitution is being returned to you with approval. It is noticed that your letter-head reads: "Central Labor Union No. 2". The use of "No. 2" is not permitted by the American Federation of Labor. The word "colored" in parenthesis should be used. You will find that this gives greater expression to the membership and will be of more influence in organizing the colored workers. With best wishes for yourself and your organization. I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.138 F Oct. 24,1919. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: As per your request of the 23rd instant I am sending you under separate cover a supply of the latest issue of List of organizations, list of organizers and list of labor press. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.139 F Oct. 24,1919. Mr. Vollmer Fries, Millbrook, New York. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 8th instant received, requesting data and information on the subject "Striking benefits the working man". You will please find copy of a letter I addressed to Miss Marguerite Boogs of Hollidaysburg, which I would ask you to please accept as equally addressed to you. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*140*] LFL. October 14,1919 Mr. Santiago Iglesias, President, Free Federation of Workingmen, Box No. 270, San Juan, Porto Rico. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of the eighteenth instant received. In reply I immediately cabled you as follows:- "Thank you for letter and invitation. Have entirely recovered." Of course, as you can appreciate, the work since October sixth has been extremely heavy and the strain has been tremendous. Between the Presidential Industrial Conference, the meetings of the committees and sub-committees of that conference and the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which met at headquarters in the interim of the Industrial Conference, there was no let-up in the strain night and day, Sundays included. I suddenly became very indisposed, had quite a high temperature and my physician ordered me to bed immediately and insisted upon my remaining in bed for several days. His prompt action saved me from being really ill. However, I am glad to say, as stated in my cablegram, that I have fully recovered and am as hard at work as I ever was in my life. I should very much like to act upon your kind suggestion and visit Porto Rico but that is out of the question now. Please convey to the many friends who have inquired about me in Porto Rico my deep appreciation of their solicitous inquiries and say to them that I have fully recovered and am fighting as hard as I have ever fought in my life. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.141 LPL. October 24, 1919 Mr. Alejandro Pulido, Plaza de los Martires, Toluca, Mexico, Mexico. Dear Sir and Brother: - I am in receipt of your esteemed letter of the 8th instant and I want to thank you for the confidence you express in our efforts to bring about a better understanding between the peoples of our respective countries. In this connection you will be interested to know that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, which has been meeting in regular session during the last few days, has been reaffirmed the determination to continue their efforts in behalf of maintaining peaceful relations between the governments of the two great republics. I am gratified to learn that the labor movement in Mexico in gaining ground every day, and I sincerely hope that your efforts to organize the workers of your country will be crowned with success, and that by the joint action of both, the American and Mexican labor movements, our peoples will learn to understand each other in a spirit of confidence, fraternity and unity. I am sending you some literature which is published by the American Federation of Labor and distributed among the working people, which I hope will be of use to you in your work of organization. I am also sending you, under separate cover, a copy of the report of the proceedings of the Second Congress of the Pan-American Federation of Labor which was held in New York City, last July. In the report you will find a great deal of useful material. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.142 LFL. October 24, 1919 Mr. C. Earl Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer, Sioux Falls Typographical Union No. 218, 828 South Prarie Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Dear Sir and Brother: - Your letter of the 20th instant received and contents noted. You say that you will shortly take an editorial position on your local labor paper you ask for any news bulletins or printed matter published by this office which would be helpful in your work. Enclosed you will please find list of pamphlets published by this office. Probably you might be able to use some of them in your work. If so, I should be very glad to send them to you. Your attention is particularly directed to the American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program and to the declaration in opposition to the formation of a political labor party. I thank you for your good wishes for myself and the work I am trying to do in behalf of my fellows. It is encouraging and helpful to know that throughout the country my fellow-workers are making the fight with me and understand what I am trying to do. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.143 LFL. October 24, 1919 Mr. J. W. Kuyfer, United Protestant Church of Morgan Park, Morgan Park, Duluth, Minnesota. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 21st received and contents noted. I thank you for writing me. The information you give regarding conditions in the steel plants can be used to advantage. I shall always be glad to hear from you with any suggestions you have to give. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.144 LFL October 24, 1919 Mr. Georger Haydook, Secretary, Newport Metal Trades Council, 13 Lincoln Street, Newport, R. I. Dear Sir and Brother: - Your invitation received October 23rd, inviting me to participate in a dance in commemoration of the Signing of the Armistice to be held on Monday evening, November tenth at the Masonic Hall, Newport, Rhode Island, under the auspices of the Newport Metal Trades Council. I should be very glad to comply with your request but I fear my engagements are of such a nature as will prevent my doing so. With best wishes for the success of your dance, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.145 LFL. Oct. 24, 1919 Mr. S. E. Hutton, Teacher-Trainer, State of Idaho, State Board for Vocational Education, Boise, Idaho. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 9th received and contents noted. You say that you have been advised by representatives of local unions in Boise to confer with me regarding arrangements to give instructions in the building trades under the Smith-Hughes Act. I conferred with the secretary of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor regarding the matter and handed him copy of your letter to me. Enclosed you will please find copy of his reply. You will note that he suggests (and I conour in the suggestion)that the executive officers of the national and international unions at interest be donsulted so that you may have the benefit of their advice. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.146 COPY: HMW. BUILDING TRADES DEPARTMENT American Federation of Labor Washington, D. C., 500-503 A. F. of L. Building, Oct. 21, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: A communication from the State Board for Vocational Education, Boise, Idaho, addressed to you, has been referred to the undersigned for reply, and accordingly I desire to advise that while we are not familiar with the Smith-Hughes Act to which reference is made, still the Building Trades are as a general proposition very much opposed to trade schools, largely for the reason that each organization has adopted an apprenticeship system by which one apprentice is to be employed for a given number of men who may find continuous employment with an employer. Usually the ratio is one apprentice to from three to five mechanics. Usually where trade shcools exist as in the case of the Carnegie Institute at Pittsburgh, the apprentices are required to avail themselves of the educational features of that institution during their tern of apprenticeshipl that is to say they are required to go to the school certain nights during the week in order to obtain the theoretical training which is given free, or if paid for the cost is usually borne by the employer. Little or no objection is found to this plan, but no effort is made to teach apprentices indisorininately, as is ordently intended by the147 S. G. 2 State Board of Vocational Education in the State of Idaho. We therefore strongly recommend that the International Unions be consulted in connection with this matter so that they may be given the opportunity to convey official opinion to your correspondent. Fraternally yours, (Signed) Wm. J. Spencer. Secretary-Treasurer, Building Trades Dept. 8-0148 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. Phillip K. Reinbold, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 815 Wabash Ave., Terre Haute, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from our Volunteer Organizer, Mr. J. L. Sims, Box 161, Linton, together with carbon copy of my reply. I would appreciate it very much if you would get in touch with Organizer Sims and advise counsel with him regarding the situation affecting the members of Federal Labor Union No. 16695, also regarding the several locals he states are taking shape in southern Indiana. I desire to state, regarding the grievance of Local No. 16695. in case of strike or lockout, the members of this local would not be entitled to financial assistance, through the fact that they have not been in affiliation to the American Federation of Labor for one year, charter having been issued in June, 1919. Please let me hear from you regarding this matter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.COPY Bloomington, Ind., Oct. 16, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres., a, F. ef L., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Yours of October 10th at hand, relative to the letter of A. F. Blewett, Secretary of Local No. 16695, at Bloomington, Indiana of October 2nd. I have made a thorough investigation. I find that the company had violated the contact, of which I forwarded you a copy on Aug. 11, 1919. The part of the contract violated is Article #7. The shop steward, W. J. Benning, was not given a fair bearing under this article. I have visited the local union, took the matter up with the Committee. The president of the case selected to arbitrate the case. I have made attempts to get the company to go on and arbitrate and settle the case. This they say they will not do. I would appreciate it very much if you would give me a hearing on this and some other matters. I will come to your office Monday, Oct. 27, 1919. If you can give me a few minutes of your time, there are several federal locals taking shape in southern Indians, so if it is possible for you to give me a hearing the 27th, wire me at the Bowles Hotel, Bloomington, Ind., in time for me to reach your office on the 27th. (Signed) J. L. SIMS. 150 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. J. L. Sims, Organizer, American Federation of Labor Box 161, Linton, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 16th received and contents carefully noted. You give report of your investigation of the grievance of Federal Labor Union No. 16695 and that you visited the local union and took the matter up with a committee of the local selected to arbitrate the case, but the company refuses to give the matter attention. You ask if you can come to my office on October 27th, regarding a hearing of this matter, also the several local unions which are taking shape in southern Indiana. I regret very much to say that it will be impossible for me to see you at this time. The International Federation of Trade Unions opens in this city on October 27th and my time will be taken up with this meeting and also other matters of grave importance. I would suggest that you get in touch with our Volunteer Organizer, Mr. Phillip K. Reinhold, 816 Wabash Ave., Terre Haute, and advise with him regarding the grievance of Local No. 16695, and the organization of the several locals in southern Indiana, which you speak of. I appreciate very much the interest you have taken in the situation affecting the members of Local No. 16695 and trust you will be successful in bringing about a satisfactory settlement. Withing you continued success in your organizing work and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.151 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. James E. Roach, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 128 Elmer Ave., Schenectady, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 22nd received and contents noted. I am very glad, indeed, to hear that the strike of the Slate Workers, of Granville, N. Y., and Poultney, Vermont, has been settled, resulting in a complete victory for the unions, with a wage increase secured of ten cents per hour, which is the full amount the unions asked and struck for. Benefits for the eighth week are being forwarded today to Secretary Jones, of Local No. 15178. The local at Granville has not as yet forwarded blank for the eighth week, but same will go forward just as soon as it is received. With best wishes and thanking you for the attention you have given this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.152 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. William Nealy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 18 Monroe St., Lynn, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from Mr. Earle C. MacAnanny, Financial Secretary, Stenographers, Typewriters, Bookkeepers & Assistants Local No. 16296, your city, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self- explanatory. Please make customary investigation of their new demands, in accordance with Article 13 of the Constitution; also advise me what is their scale, what increase they are asking, decrease in hours, if any, and other working conditions. As soon as your report is received and copy of their demands, the matter will be submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you in regard to this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.[*153*] COPY STENOGRAPHERS, TYPEWRITERS, BOOKKEEPERS AND ASSISTANTS Local 16296 Lynn, Mass., Oct. 11, 1919. Mr. Frank C. Morrison, Sect'y., American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: We, the above named local union, are about to ask for an increase from the General Electric Company here at Lynn and wish the endorsement of our national. We were awarded here on July, 1918 - by a decision of the National War Labor Board a minimum for male members of $22.50 per week and $16.50 for female members. They also set forth a sliding scale for men ranging from the minimum $22.50 to $43.00 and for females from $16.50 to $22.00. The company in carrying out the award however forgot apparently there was a maximum and gave us all practically the minimum irregardless of ability or senority. We have girls here who have worked sixteen years and have been awarded the minimum and men are as practically bad off. So we are asking the following and wish your endorsement. All male office employes are to receive a twenty-five per cent increase. All female employes are to receive after six months time set by the company as probationary period the minimum as now awarded and for each six months service to the company are to be paid an additional fifty cents per week, that increase not to bring the employe above the maximum of $22. (That is, a female office employe who has worked for the company three years will receive five - six months increase or a total of $2,50 above her minimum making her wage $19.00. Due to the high cost of living and the unfair carrying out the award of July 1918 we feel only just in demanding the above. No man, married or single can maintain a decent appearance and live up to the average standard of living on $22.50 a week which many of us are forced to do. Rents, coal, and all commodities here are very high. Trusting that you will see this as we see it and that your endorsement will be received in the very near future, I remain, Fraternally yours, (Signed) EARLE C. MacANANNY, Fin. Sect'y.154 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. Earle C. MacAnanny, Financial Secretary, Stenographers, Typewriters, Bookkeepers and Assistants Local No. 16296, Suite 17, 67 Tudor St., Lynn, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 11th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for reply. You state that your local is about to ask for an increase in wages from the General Electric Company at Lynn and you wish the endorsement of same; also that you were awarded on July,1918, by a decision of the National War Labor Board a minimum for male members of $22.50 per week and $16.50 for female members. They also set forth a sliding scale for men ranging from the minimum $22.50 to $43.00 and for females from $16.50 to $22.00. The company in carrying out the ward apparently forgot there was a maximum and gave all practically the minimum irregardless of ability or senority. Let me say, in reply, that Section 2 of Article 13 of the Constitution states as follows: "In the event of a disagreement between a Local Union and an employer which, in the opinion of the Local Union, may result in a strike, such Union shall notify the President of the American Federation of Labor, who shall investigate, or cause an investigation to be made of the disagreement, and endeavor to adjust the difficulty. If his efforts should prove futile, he shall take such steps as he may deem necessary in notifying the Executive Council, and if the majority of said Council shall decide that a strike is necessary such Union shall be authorized to order a strike, but that under no circumstances shall a strike or lockout be deemed legal, or moneys expended from the defense fund on that account, unless the strike or lockout shall have been first authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council" It is necessary that your local submit copy of your demands to this office for the endorsement of the Executive Council in advance of any section of your local.155 2 I am taking this matter up with our Volunteer Organizer, Mr. William Nealy. 18 Monroe Street, your city, asking that he get in touch with the officers of your local and make investigation of your new demands in accordance with Article 13 of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. As soon as his report is received and copy of your wage scale submitted to this office, the matter will be submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration. It should be borne in mind that until the Executive Council has had opportunity to pass on same, no drastic action should be taken by your local. Please advise if the members of your local pay 75 cents per month dues, in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 156 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. Paul J. Smith, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 310 S. Duncan St., Marion, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from Organizer Thomas Murphy, relative to the situation at Joppa, Illinois, affecting the members of Federal Labor Union No. 15632, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self- explanatory. I would appreciate a word from you regarding the situation there. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.COPY CITY OF MURPHYSBORO Mayor's Office Murphysboro, October 19th, Mr. Frank Morrison, Sec't Treas' A F of L Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Bro I received your Check for salary and expense to Joppa Illinois some days ago and desire to thank you for same. I have not heard anything from Joppa for some time neither have I heard from Organizer Paul J. Smith in regard to the reply he was to receive from the Pres. of that company if he received such. Paul was to send me a copy of the reply and in case you have received it I would be pleased to know just what action the Pres. of that Co. took. I am very sorry to hear of Pres. Gompers illness and trust that he will soon recover his health. Wishing you every success I am, Very respectfully yours, /s/ Thos. Murphy. 215 [?] Lucier St., Murphysboro, Illinois.158 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. Thomas Murphy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 215 Lucier St., Murphysboro, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 19th received and contents noted. You ask regarding report from Organizer Smith, relative to the situation at Joppa, Illinois, affecting the members of Federal Labor Union 15632. Let me say, in reply, that no report on this matter was received from Organizer Smith, but I am today writing to him for same and as soon as received, I will forward you copy. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 159 LL October 24, 1919. Mr. Joseph Richie, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 823-4 Hood Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 21st received and contents noted. You give report of your investigation of the grievance of the members of Storage Warehouse Employes' Union No. 15032, your city, regarding the laying off of men during slackness of work by the firm of Rex & Co., Inc. I note that you have given this matter your careful attention and that you will attend their meeting some time soon to keep things straight and trust you will be successful in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of this matter. Please keep me advised as to the final outcome. I appreciate very much the service you have given to this local since they were organized and note the splendid increase of wages they have received from time to time. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 160 AH Oct. 23, 1919. Mr. B. F. Slavery, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 621 Haven Ave., Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Your communication of October 16th duly received and contents noted. You recite the circumstances surrounding Federal Labor Union #16654, the fact that its treasury has become exhausted on account of the strike in which the members have become involved. Let me say, that the officers of the American Federation of Labor have no authority to waive the requirements of the constitution the A. F. of L. in the matter of payment of financial obligations to be paid by affiliated organizations. These laws are equally binding upon the officers of the A. F. of L. as upon the local unions. We would have no objections to permitting the indebtedness to stand but on the other hand the laws provide that an organization three months in arrears shall stand suspended and in order to be reinstated it calls for the payment of three months back dues with dues for the current month and in addition 25 cents reinstatement stamp for each member. You will see from this that it would create a greater burden inasmuch as the organization would have to pay up the entire indebtedness at one time in order to be reinstated. Hence, I would advise that an effort be made to pay off as much of the indebtedness as can be done and thus avoid suspension and the heavier obligations that would thereby be involved. You appreciate the fact that the American Federation of Labor has not unlimited means, in fact we are very much restricted in the matter of funds. On this account it is necessary that there shall be certain specific regulations in regard to financial obligations that must be complied with by our affiliated organizations. I sincerely hope that this dispute will be successfully terminated at an early date. With kind regards, I am, Yours fraternally, Saml. Gompers161 Washington, D. C. October 23, 1919 [?] E. Williams, In care of Harry L. Marsalis, Box 267, Bogalusa, La. Telegram received Will await your letter with particulars. SAMUEL GOMPERS. (Charge A, F. of L.)162 Washington, D. C., October 24, 1919. Mr. T. G. Stecker, Care Peoria Trades and Labor assembly, 400 North Jefferson St., Peoria, Ill. Telegram received. Central Labor Union should conform its actions to section nine article eleven of Federation constitution. Suggest you communicate immediately with officers of American Federation of Teachers. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A.F. OF L. WASHINGTON, D. C., October 24, 1919 William K. Short, 130 West [?]2nd St., New York N. Y. Organized Labor of this city has arranged parade and reception in my home evening October twenty eight therefore regret impossible to meet with your executive committee. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. OF L.163 WCR:EJL Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Harry Anderson, President, Federal Labor Union #15775, c/o S. J. Burroughs, 116 North Fox Street, Portland, O. Dear Sir and Brother: Your Constitution and By-Laws without any letter accompanying them have been received. You ask for their approval. A number of changes have been made to have the Constitution conform to the laws of the American Federation of Labor. Section 2 of Article 1 provides that when there is any dispute in your Federal Labor Union that it shall be referred to the President and Secretary of the Oregon State Federation of Labor and the President of the Portland Central Labor Council whose decision shall be final. This has been eliminated because such a dispute must be referred to the President of the American Federation of Labor for adjustment. The relation of a Federal Labor Union to the American Federation of Labor is the same as a Local Union to its International. In Section 8 of Article I the language has been changed to make it plainer. In Section 2 of Article III, "and shall be made subject to the vote of the Union" is stricken out because unnecessary. It is suggested that where "Financial Secretary - Business Agent" appears it should be spelled out. In fact, the names of all officers should be spelled out. The last two lines of Section 14 of Article V are not stricken out. Section 18 of Article V is changed so that the clause will be clearer Section 3 of Article XIII has been amended by inserting "through the American Federation of Labor", in compliance with the laws.164 (Harry Anderson -- 2). Section 1 of Article XV provides for fining, suspending or expelling a member for certain reasons without requiring that a fair trial be given. A change has been made. Section 2 of Article XV has been stricken out because it could be used in a manner not intended by the union. In Section 3 of Article XV the words, "willfully slanders an officer or member of this Federal Labor Union" covers such a wide possibility that there would be danger in having it in the Constitution. All members against whom charges are made must be given a fair trial. For this neither Sections 3 or 4 provide. In all cases where it is necessary this has been inserted in the various sections. Section 4 of Article XVI has been eliminated because the President is clothed with sufficient authority to conduct a meeting with decorum and dignity. Should this provision appear in the Union's Constitution it would appear that it was necessary, which of course is not true. Section 5 of Article XVI has been eliminated as unnecessary. Section 7 of Article XVI interjects an outside question. One union cannot levy a fine on a member of another union. Its powers are confined to its own members. Article XVII has been eliminated entirely, as it has no place in your Constitution. It is apparently taken from the Constitution of some International Union. A number of typographical errors have been corrected and unnecessary words eliminated. With the corrections stated your Constitution will be approved. The Constitution is being returned to you for that purpose. With best wishes for yourself and for the success of your organization, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.165 KR October 25, 1919. Miss Anna Jarvis, President, Mother's Day International Assn., 2031 North 12th St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Madam: - Herewith enclosed you will please find autographed photograph of President Gompers, as per request contained in your letter of October 23. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers166 KP October 25, 1919. Mr. John Scofield, Asst. & Chief Clerk, War Department, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 24, together with the six copies of "A Report of the Activities of the War Department in the Field of Industrial Relations During the War" received. Thank you very kindly for furnishing this office with the above. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.167 EP October 25, 1919. Mr. William G. Willcox, S South William St., New York City. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 23 received and contents noted. Of course, you are aware by now that there was no alternative left the Labor Group in the Industrial Conference other than to withdraw. In deference to our honored President and with the most earnest desire to be helpful in working out some plan, to assist in solving the vital questions now disturbing our people, the representatives of Labor went into the Industrial Conference determined to go to the fullest limit in the effort to bring about the desired result. No fair minded man can accuse the Labor representatives of not doing their part. When the principle of Collective Bargaining was denied, then there was nothing further that Labor could do, as that principle is fundamental. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.168 EP October 25, 1919. Mr. Orin Newman, 1107 Center Ave., Brownwood, Texas. Dear Sir:- Replying to your letter of October 21, enclosed you will please find a list of pamphlets and leaflets published by this office. If you desire to consult any of these, your order will be promptly filled. Very truly yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. encl 169 KP October 25, 1919. Dr. Phillip Zenner, 2947 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 23 received and contents noted. I always welcome suggestions from anybody and I am glad to receive your letter. Perhaps you will have a better understanding of that for which labor stands; what it has done; what it hopes to do, if you will read some of the literature that we publish - particularly the Reconstruction Program of the American Federation of Labor and the declaration which the American Federation of Labor made in support of loyalty to and in support of the government a month prior to the declaration of war. I am sending these and several other matters to you under separate cover. They are commended to your thoughtful consideration. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 170 EP October 25, 1919. Mr. Maurice J. Cassidy, Secretary, Building Trades Council, 2651 Locust St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother;- Your letter of October 23 received and contents noted. I have also read copy of the letter you enclosed, which you sent to President Wilson on October 20 and the letter which you sent to Congressman Igoe on the same date regarding the Prohibition Enforcement bill. It is impossible for anyone to see President Wilson. He has been confined to his room and his bed for over three weeks and it is only within the last few days, according to the press reports here in Washington, that his physicians have permitted him to have any information or give any consideration to public matters connected with his great office. I felt so profoundly the situation in connection with the Prohibition Enforcement bill which is now awaiting the President's veto or approval, that I addressed a letter to him upon the subject but, of course, Secretary Tumulty acknowledged its receipt with the information that when possible it would be laid before the President. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 171 VLY October 25, 1919. Mr. Milton Snellings, president, International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers, 8334 Yale Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Referring to our correspondence regarding arrangements for the special committee of five to meet in the case of the Electrical Workers and Engineers, inconformity with the directions of the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor, the committee has b been appointed. Mr. Noonan has advised in answer to my letter, that any time will be agreeable to him to meet with the committee, late in November or early December, at the convenience of the other parties concerned. Will you please advise me if a date about the time suggested above will suit you so that I may issue a formal call for the meeting. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 172 AH K-E October 24, 1919 Mr. Philip B. Swaine, Secretary, Metal Trades Council, 63 Holly ave., Lynn, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 18th received in regard to the situation affecting the Watchmen and Transportation Workers #16313, whose members are employed by the General Electric Company. You advise that the sole question is whether or not these people should maintain their affiliation with the American Federation of Labor and lose their positions or give up their affiliation with the A.F. of L. and retain their employment with the General Electric Company. In your previous letter you stated that the Metal Trades Council would back these men and ask what the American Federation of Labor could do. Your letter does not state that the Organization asks permission to strike, nor does it indicate that an impression prevails that a strike would bring about a decision in favor of the organization. On the other hand it says that should the men stay in the union and give up their jobs or be transferred into other positions, or give up the union and keep their positions.173 Philip B. Swaine #2. Lynn, Mass. The officers of the American Federation of Labor would not take it upon themselves to decree for the members of this organization an impossible situation that would bring hardship upon them and their families, particularly if the results hoped for could not be brought about at this time. The American Federation of Labor maintains that it is a constitutional right of every wage worker to belong to the union of his craft or calling so that he may be able to bargain collectively with his fellow workers in negotiations with employers, and thus be in the best possible position to protect and advance their interests. The officers of the American Federation of Labor have no authority to order affiliated unions on strike, or to say that they must remain on strike, or to require a union to declare a strike off. These are questions which rest entirely with the members of the organization to decide in accordance with their best judgment. I understand from your letter that what you desire is our advice in the premises. There would be no logic in the men taking a position that would be hopeless and which would entail a hardship to them and their families, which would be to no purpose at this time. In saying this it is not that we propose for these men to our aside for all times the question of their right to associate themselves in the union for the protection and advancement of their interests, but merely to permit the matter to rest until it would be practicable and feasible for them to make an issue of the matter. If I have not understood your letter correctly, and it was the intention to ask the sanction of the American Federation174 Philip B. Swaine #3. Lynn, Mass. of Labor of a strike of the members of the Watchmen and Transportation Workers' Union, please advise me further. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.175 Letter on compulsory arbitration can be found on page 527 of the form book. F Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Julius D. Tickle, Lenoir College, Hickory, North Carolina. Dear Sir:176 WCR: EJL Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Charles W. Wagner, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Hotel Pantlind, Grand Rapids, Mich. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter with enclosures directed to President Gompers received. He directs me to thank you for it. Fraternally yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.177 F Oct. 25, 1919. Miss Margaret Erving Hamilton, 388 Dwight Street, New Haven, Conn. Dear Madam: Permit me in President Gompers name to thank you very much for sending to him copy of the Yale Law Journal for April 1918, containing an argument at length by Professor Walter Wheeler Cook. At the first opportunity, I am sure, President Gompers will be glad to read this article. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.178 WCR:EJL Oct. 25, 1919. L. M. Herrington, M. D., 410 Chartiers Avenue, McKees Rocks, Pa. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 21st with enclosures received. Your information is very interesting. The newspaper clipping recalls many historical facts. Your conclusion in regard to some of the people you refer to impressed me strongly. Thanking you for your information, I remain, Very truly yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor179 LAS/AS. October 24,1919. Mr. O. C. Willians, Silois, ILLINOIS. Dear Sir: Your favor of October 21st received, in which you ask for information relative to organizing railroad power house employes, and I am forwarding your communication to Mr. B. M. Jewell, Acting President of the Railroad Employes Department, 507 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. with the request that he communicate with you direct. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.180 LAS/AS. October 24,1919. Mr. B. M. Jewell, Acting President Railroad Employes Department, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find herein a communication received from Mr. O. C. Williams of Silois, Illinois in which he desires full information in regard to organizing the railroad power house employes, and I am forwarding the same to you with the request that you kindly write him direct and furnish him with the information he desires. I might state that I am informing Mr. Williams that he will hear from you at an early date. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enc.181 AFL/AS. October 24,1919. Mr. Edmund Turner, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 262 Kennedy Street, Mobile, ALA. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence permit me to enclose you herein a copy of a letter received from the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, which is self-explanatory. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Encl. 182 LAS/AS. October 24, 1919. Mr. Joseph Obergfell, General Recording-Secretary International Union of United Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers of America, 2347 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OHIO. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 22nd received and contents noted. I beg yo to advise that Mr. Robin Q. Jennings of Sikeston, Missouri did not furnish us with any street address. Therefore, we are unable to supply you with the same, but as the above town is very small I take it that a letter addressed to him as above will no doubt be delivered. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 183 LAS/AS. October 24, 1919. Mr. S. G. Jensen, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Green River, WYOMING. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 20th instant has been received and contents noted. I very much regret that you cannot continue your work as organizer, but, of course, under the circumstances, I can but accept your resignation, and take this opportunity to express my appreciation of and thank you for the good work performed by you while acting in that capacity. I trust that although no longer connected with the A. F. of L. as our official organizer, you will yet lend your influence wherever possible to the strengthening of our great cause. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you occasionally, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.184 LAS/AS. October 24, 1919. Mr. F. M. Cox, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 114 No. Plane St., Burlington, IOWA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 21st received and our records have been made to agree with the information you furnish. Relative to your request for information as to the initiation fees, etc., permit me to state that we are now printing our 1919 book of instructions to organizers and you will receive a copy of the same which will give you full information. There was forwarded to you with your commission a package of organizing literature, pamphlets, etc. and if you desire an additional supply kindly advise me when I shall be glad to forward the same. I note the Trades and Labor Assembly will notify me relative to Organizers Anderson and Ullrich. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 185 LAS/AS. Mr. J. L. Phillips, Vice-President October 24, 1919. Central Labor Union, Durant, OKLA. October 18th R. E. Ewing Durant and vicinity Durant Sam Gompers 186 LAS/AS. October 24, 1919. Mr. Charles J. Zeil, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 85 Taylor Avenue, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 22nd instant has been received and contents noted. I very much regret that you cannot continue your work as organizer, but, of course, under the circumstances, I can but accept your resignation, and take this opportunity to express my appreciation of and thank you for the good work performed by you while acting in that capacity. I trust that although no longer connected with the A. F. of L. as our official organizer, you will yet lend your influence wherever possible to the strengthening of our great cause. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you occasionally, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.187 WOR:EJL Oct. 24, 1919. Mr. W. H. Bond, Custom House, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 23d received. You have apparently carried out your intention of leaving which you mentioned the last time I saw you. You must not feel discouraged because the securing of legislation is a difficult task. It requires patience, persistence and determination unequalled in any other walk of life. There are many obstacles, many defeats and many successes. Will keep track of your matter in the best way possible, but until I hear what Representative Treadway thinks about that letter you wrote him nothing can be done along the lines we talked about. It is probably true they will not take up the bill this session, as the Peace Treaty has shelved most of the legislation. There seems to be a determination to pass no bills now unless they are of the utmost importance. When you have anything that will be of help, let me know. With best wishes for yourself, I remain, Fraternally yours, Legislative Committeeman, American Federation of Labor. 188 WCR:EJL Oct. 24, 1919. Mr. Albert Rosenberg, 1220 W. Lanvale Street, Baltimore, MD. Dear Sir: Your letter containing some suggestions for amending the patent laws received. They have been referred to the Legislative Committee of the American Federation of Labor to take what steps are necessary. Thanking you for your kind expressions regarding my convalescence, I remain, Very truly yours, Sam. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*189*] LAS/AS. October 24,1919. Mr. A. Farmilo, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 12010 - 95th Street, Edmonton, CANADA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 11th addressed to Secretary Morrison relative to your securing an organizer's commission has been referred to me for attention. Our records show you now hold a district organizer's commission for Edmonton, but since you are now active in the work throughout the Dominion of Canada a commission will be forwarded to you for six months as general organizer for the Dominion of Canada, and upon receipt of same I would request that you return your district organizer's commission to this office. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor190 Washington, D. C., Oct. 25, 1919 Mr . C.H. Scott, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Box 101, Memphis, Tennessee. Telegram received from Secretary Stacker of American Federation of Teachers regarding situation in Memphis as related to the Teachers. He expresses apprehension regarding possible action on part of central body. Your attention is called to Section nine Article eleven of American Federation of Labor constitution . Your central body should act in conformity therewith. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A.F. OF L. 191 WASHINGTON, D.C., October 25, 1919. Mr. F. G. Stocker, Secretary-Treasurer, American Federation of Teachers, 1620 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois. Telegram received. Have just wired to Memphis central body as follows: Telegram received from Secretary Stecker of American Federation of Teachers regarding situation in Memphis as related to the Teachers. He expresses apprehension regarding possible action on part of central body. Your attention is called to Section nine Article eleven of American Federation of Labor constitution. Your central body should act in conformity therewith. SAMUEL GOMPERS Charge A.F. of L.192 VLY October 25, 1919. M. Fontaine, Chairman, Organizing Committee, International Labor Conference, Willard Hotel, Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Fontaine: I regret exceedingly that the organizing committee could not meet longer today and that by reason of the meeting of the International Federation of Trade Unions in the American Federation of Labor Building on Monday at eleven o'clock I shall be prevented from being with you and the organizing committee at that time. The importance of the suggestion I made this morning at our meeting, regarding the decision of the conference to determine upon the eligibility of the delegates from Germany and from Austria, has grown upon me since we adjourned, and I therefore feel it essential that this question be decided at the earliest possible moment after the convening of the conference on Tuesday, that the question of the admission of the delegates from the two countries should be decided before the permanent officers of the conference shall be elected. The fact that the delegates from Germany and Austria are not in the United States and will not be at the time of the conference is not material; their absence is from no fault of the organizing committee nor of the conference, but the fact of their eligibility to be represented once declared will disarm any adverse criticism of the action of the organizing committee and of the conference. Once the declaration of their eligibility being decided, their delayed presence cannot be attributed to any action on our part. My suggestion is that the president and general secretary be elected provisionally or temporarily, and that the question of the eligibility of the delegates from Germany and Austria be then determined and, I trust determined affirmatively, and thereafter the officers of the International Labor Conference can be elected permanently for the congress. It is my earnest hope that the above suggestion may commend itself to the favorable consideration and action of the organizing committee. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.193 October 24,1919. Dear Sir: In compliance with the request made, I am sending you under separate cover one of my artist proofs. It is not a very good one, but it is all that I have at present. When I get a better one I shall be very glad to autograph it and send it to you. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers See G. Mr. Louis Ingebretson, Anoka, Minnesota.194 VLY October 25, 1919. Mr. Aug. A. Breuninger, Secretary, The Un-A-Quaw-Ian Society, 228 Quincy Place, N.E., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: Permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 22nd, addressed to President Gompers, regarding the attitude of Judge Gary toward collective barganing. President Gompers will appreciate the interest manifested by you, and he would write to you personally but for the fact that his time is entirely occupied with important matters requiring his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers1[xx] HMF:TCR. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. A.D. Henry, Recording Secretary, Central Labor Union, 404 Lincoln Avenue, Lebanon, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter containing Constitution, By-Laws and Rules of Order received. You ask for their approval. Section 2 of Article 9 is contrary to the laws of the American Federation of Labor. You cannot take away the right of any local union to handle its own affairs in its own way. By mistake Section 3 was marked out. It should be [?????]si[?]ed. In Article 10, honorary membership should not entitle a holder to a vote. Section 2 of Article 7 has been changed to make it read correctly. Rule 29 of the Rules of Order provides that where there is no rule to the contrary, Cushing's manual shall decide all questions. You will find Roberts Rules of Order more easily followed. Of course, if you prefer Cushing's manual there is no objection. In the duties of Financial Secretary and Treasurer it is necessary to provide that the bonds shall be obtained from a Security Company through the American Federation of Labor. That clause has been written into the copy. Am returning the Constitution and By-Laws which when changed as directed will be approved. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Encl.196 LFL. October 27, 1919. Messrs, Frank Morrison, James O'Connell, John Donlin, John J. Manning, American Federation of Labor Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sirs and Brothers:- The International Federation of Trade Unions will meet in the Council Chamber of the American Federation of Labor Building today. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, at its meeting which has just closed, authorized the appointment of a committee to arrange for suitable entertainment for the delegates. In conformity with the action of the Executive Council, I, therefore, request that you act as this committee and proceed with the work for which the committee is appointed. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.197 Washington, D. C., October 25, 1919. Warren S. Stone, B. of L.E. Bldg., Cleveland, Ohio. Telegrams received. Executive Council American Federation of Labor took under serious consideration suggestions of Brotherhoods and Shopmen and Mr. Hampton and decided that conference should not only be held but held at the capital of the nation at a time when the Congres of the United [Stat] States will be in session. Upon second consideration I think you will acquit me of being unfair when I bow to and carry out the conclusions of the Executive Council. In addition I have been so overwhelmed day and night with important work that I could not write each representative who attended the Executive Council meeting. I assure you no discourtesy was intended. Some days ago I invited the representatives of the Brotherhoods, of the Shopmen and of the Farmers to meet in conference with Secretary Morrison and me this afternoon. We held a three hours conference and all agreed that the call for the conference for December 13 at Washington should be issued jointly. Sincerely hope this will meet with your approval. SAMUEL GOMPERS Charge A.F. of L. Washington, D. C., October 27, 1919 Mr. William L. Hutcheson, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. On October eleventh I wrote you regarding Mr. Cosgrove joining with the two representatives of the American Federation of Labor to investigate Porto Rican conditions. I know you [??tt] been buisy with Executive Board meetings and other important matters but I kindly ask you whether you can send me word at an early date so that arrangements for the trip may be made. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L.[*198*] F October 27, 1919. [?] Department of the Interior Washington, D. C. [?ten] to transmit to you telegram which I received today from Mr. [?] Straus of New York as follows: quote - If you think my services [?d] be valuable in the Industrial conference should occasion [?] I authorize you [?] inform Secretary Lane. quote. Samuel Gompers American Federation of Labor. Very [?] (Signed) Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor (Signed) Frank Morrison. secretary American Federation of Labor. SEAL199 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. ORGD NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE MAIN 3871-2-3-4-5-6 CABLE ADDRESS, AFEL. AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR Executive Council President, SAMUEL GOMPERS. Secretary, FRANK MORRISON, Treasurer, DANIEL J. TOBIN, 222 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Ind. First Vice-President, JAMES DUNCAN, 25 School Street, Quincy, Mass. Second Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio, Third Vice-President, FRANK DUFFY, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Fourth Vice-President, WILLIAM GREEN, 1102-8 Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Fifth Vice-President, W. D. MAHON, 104 East High Street, Detroit, Mich. Sixth Vice-President, T. A. RICKERT, 175 West Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Seventh Vice-President, JACOB FISCHER, 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Ind. Eighth Vice-President, MATTHEW WOLL, 6111 Bishop Street, Chicago, Ill. A. F. of L. BUILDING Washington, D.C. October 24,1919. Dear Sir: You will confer a favor upon the American Federation of Labor and its affiliated branches by granting an interview to the bearer, Mr. William E. O'Flynn, who is authorized to procure business announcements and advertisements for the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, the AMERICAN FEDERATINIST, for the year Nineteen Hundred and Nineteen. The American Federation of Labor is composed of 113 International Unions, representing 33,852 local unions, 5 Departments, 46 State Federations, 856 City Central Labor Unions, and 1,146 independent local unions. The membership of the American Federation of Labor is approximated at 3,844,494 and the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the only official publication issued by the American Federation of Labor to this vast army of consumers. It is, therefore a medium of great value to legitimate business houses who advertise in it. It is owned and published by the American Federation of Labor, and all profits accruing therefrom go into the general treasury of that organization. Agents are not authorized or allowed to accept payments of any kind. All contracts should be made upon the official blanks of the American Federation of Labor. All payments should be made by check payable to the Secretary of the American Federation of Labor, and Mailed to this office direct. No donations of any character are accepted. Any courtesies extended to the bearer will be greatly appreciated and reciprocated by our organization. Very respectfully yours, (Signed) Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. (Signed) Frank Morrison. Secretary American Federation of Labor. SEAL NOW FOR THE FOUR MILLION MARK200 VLY October 27, 1919. Mr. W. A. Appleton, President, International Federation of Trade Unions, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: This is to certify that the Executive Council of the American federation of Labor, by order of the E. C. at its meeting October 6, -21, will represent the American Federation of Labor at the conference of the International Federation of Trade Unions. The members of the Executive Council are: Samuel Gompers, President, James Duncan, First Vice-President, Jos. F. Valentine, Second Vice-President, Frank Duffy, Third VIce-President, William Green, Fourth VIce-President, W. D. Mahon, Fifth Vice-President, T. A. Rickert, Sixth Vice-President, Jacob Fischer, Severnth Vice-President, Matthew Woll, Eighth Vice-President, Daniel J. Tobin, Treasurer, Frank Morrison, Secretary. BY ORDER OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. Samuel Gompers, President.201 EMD. October 25, 1919 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Grover C. Cook, is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Federal Labor Union #17111, Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.202 AKT October 24th, 1919 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Mr. O.P. Aley is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of the Federal Labor Union #17113 in Newport, Tennessee. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.203 EMD. October 24, 1919. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Edward Gibbs, Jr., is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Federal Labor Union #17116, Maggett, South Carolina. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.204 LAS;AS. October 27, 1919. Mr. B. A. Larger, Secretary-Treasurer United Garment Workers of America, 17 Bible House, NEW YORK CITY. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herein please find copy of a communication received from Miss Agnes Nester, President of the Women's Trade Union League of Chicago, 1?21 - 64 West Randolph Street, Chicago, Illinois. I would thank you if you would kindly advise me if it is satisfactory to your international union that commission be issued to Mary Haney. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President. American Federation of Labor. Encl.205 LAB/AB. October 23, 1919. Miss Agnes Nestor, President Women's Trade Union League of Chicago, 64 West Randolph St., Chicago, ILL. Dear Maiam: Your favor of October 21st received in which you recommend to receive a volunteer organizer's commission Miss Mary Haney, organizer for the Women's Trade Union League and a member of the United Garment Workers of America and President of Local Union 33 of your city. In accordance with the established custom of the A. F. of L. it will be necessary for me to receive an official endorsement from the Chicago Federation of Labor, and it is therefore suggested that you bring this matter to the attention of that organization and upon receipt of recommendation the matter of issuing a commission to Miss Haney will be given prompt attention. I might stay that this is the course now followed in the issuance of commissions where Central Labor Unions are in existence affiliated to the A. F. of L. Trusting to hear from you at an early date, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.206 VLy October 25,1919 Mr. E. Marshall Young, Assistant to the President, Citizens' National Railroads League Inc., Equitable Building, Boston, Massachusetts. Dear Sir Your letter of October 24th received and contents noted. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which closed its meeting in this city the early part of this week, decided that in the best interests of all labor that the executive heads of the various affiliated national and international unions, the executives of the Railroad Brotherhoods and of the Farmers' organizations should be invited to meet in conference with the executive officers of the American Federation of Labor in the very near future, for the purpose of considering the entire situation in the industrial field as it is now presented and for evolving some plan of action that would be helpful. While not unappreciative of the suggestions you make that the organization which you represent, that is, the Citizens' National Railroads League, Incorporated, should be invited to participate in that conference, yet as the conference is called for and in the interest of the wage earners including the agricultural workers, it would not be permissible or advisable to broaden the scope of the conference for the admission of any other group of citizens. Permit me to thank you for your kind expressions relative to myself. I am glad to say that I have fully recovered from my recent indisposition. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.207 LFL. October 27th,1919 Mr. John R. Alpine, 411-16 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother:- In conformity with the action of the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor resolutions have been drafted expressive of the sentiment of the Executive Council regarding your retirement from the vice-presidency of the American Federation of Labor. As soon as the resolutions can be properly engrossed, they will be formally transmitted to you. You will again permit me to express my regret that you will no longer be officially connected with the labor movement. With assurances of my high regard, I am, Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.208 F Oct. 24, 1919. Mr. E.L. Harvey, Publicity Director The National Security League 19 West 44th Street, New York City. Dear Sir: In reply to your inquiry of the 23rd instant, you will please find enclosed copy of the statement by President Gompers on Military training, Laredo, Texas, November 16, 1918. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.209 WCR:EJL Oct. 27, 1919. Mr. O. D. Potter, Recording Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 16206, 911 Corbett St., Hagerstown, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter in which you state that you have adopted a model constitution for a Federal Labor Union approved by the American Federation of Labor, received. You also send a copy of an addition to your laws, for which you ask approval. Sections 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are clearly unconstitutional. The Constitution of the A. F. of L provides: "Section 15. That traveling cards issued to members by Local Trade or Federal Labor Unions shall admit members presenting the same to membership in Local Trade or Federal Labor Unions directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor." The method of ballot which you propose is also unconstitutional. It is apparently adopted from that in vogue in secret societies where very careful consideration of candidates is given and two or three black ballots provided for rejection is sufficient. In labor unions the practice is that a majority of the members is considered qualified to accept or reject a member Article 10, referring to sick or accidents benefits, is approved. Your amendments to the Constitution are being returned to you for correction, when they will be approved. With best wishes for yourself and the success of Federal Labor Union No. 16206, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.210 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Paul Scharrenberg, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, Underwood Bldg., San Francisco, California. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.211 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Jacob Fischer, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, 222 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.212 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Frank Morrison, Member Labor Committee, Presidential Industrial Conference, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Co-Operative Union and member of the Employers' group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.213 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, 222 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Co-Operative Union and member of the Employers Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitute. In justice to him and for you information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers Chairman, Labor Group.214 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Joseph F. Valentine, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.215 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. W. D. Mahon, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, 104 East High St., Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18th clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.216 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. T. A. Rickert, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, 175 West Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.217 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. Matthew Woll, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, Council of National Defense Bldg., City. Dear Sir and Brother: You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group, would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press that clearly defined his attitude, on October 18. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.218 E. Oct. 27, 1919. Mrs. Sarah A. Conboy, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, Suite 72, Bible House, New York City. Dear Miss Conboy: You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.219 E. Oct. 25, 1919 Mr. William H. Johnston, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers Chairman Labor Group. 220 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. John Donlin, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.221 E. Oct. 25, 1919. Mr. M. F. Tighe, Member Labor Group, Presidential Industrial Conference, House Building, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: You will recall that during the sessions of the Industrial Conference it was currently rumored that Mr. C. S. Barrett, President of the Farmers' National Cooperative Union and member of the Employers' Group would vote against the labor proposition for collective bargaining. It was brought to my attention yesterday that Mr. Barrett gave a statement to the press on October 18 clearly defining his attitude. In justice to him and for your information enclosed you will please find copy of that statement. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. Chairman Labor Group.222 E. Oct. 27, 1919. Mr. Rolland Bradley, Livingston Hall, Columbia University, New York City. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 12th received and contents noted. Your letter deals with the general subject matter of industrial training and vocational education. This entire subject has been very fully dealt with by various conventions of the American Federation of Labor. I would suggest that you refer to pages 207 to 215, inclusive, of the American Federation of Labor History, Encyclopedia and Reference Book. References to the entire subject of education, industrial training and vocational education are given therein and from which you will very clearly understand the attitude of the American Federation of Labor. Copy of this volume can be furnished you for $2.00. In addition the special committee on Industrial Education of the American Federation of Labor made a report to the annual convention of the A. F. of L. held at Rochester, New York in November 1912. That report was afterward published in pamphlet form and can be furnished you for 25 cents. Enclosed you will please find copy of an address which I delivered before the 8th Annual Convention of the National Society for the Promotion of Industrial Education in Richmond, Virginia, December 10, 1914. If you will refer to these various matters above noted, you will find your several questions very fully answered. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.223 E. Oct. 27, 1919. Mr. Hiram H. Hackney, Box 241, Princeton, New Jersey. Dear Sir:- Your card of October 21 received. President Gompers would be very glad to comply with your request, but he is so crowded with matters of the most vital importance that it is impossible now for him to find the opportunity of preparing the article you request. He asked me to advise you as above and to suggest again that you use some matter already published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, copies of which have been sent you. Of course, you appreciate the fact that President Gompers daily receives many requests similar in character to that you make and that it is simply impossible for him to comply with all of them no matter how much he desires to do so. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.224 E. Oct. 27, 1919. Mr. Phillip Johnson, Assistant Secretary, California State Federation of Labor, Underwood Bldg., 525 Market St., San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of the 18th instant received in which you enclose copies of preambles and resolutions relative to the recent Industrial Conference called by the President and my appointment of Mr. Paul Scharrenberg as a member of the labor group of fifteen. Of course, it is very gratifying to me to know that Mr. Scharrenberg's appointment is so heartily endorsed by the labor movement of California. I regard him as a valuable addition to the labor group. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.225 LL October 27, 1919. Mr. Henry Streifler, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 36 Northumberland Ave., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 25th received and contents noted. I also note clipping you enclosed regarding the strike of Federal Labor Union No. 16843, of Silver Creek, N. Y. I am pleased to note that you are giving them all the advice you can in this matter and that you will keep me advised as to the progress being made there. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.226 LL October 27, 1919. Mr. George Douglas, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 816, Whitman, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of letter received from President John S. Faunce, Federal Labor Union No. 16844, your city, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. Please get in touch with the officers of this local and be of all assistance in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of their wage dispute and advise me of the final outcome of the matter. Thanking you in advance for giving this matter your attention, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.227 COPY Office of the President, Local Union No. 16844, Whitman, Mass. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: According to Section 2, Article 13, of Constitution of the A. F. of L., we beg to notify you of the event of a disagreement between Local Union No. 16844 and employer which, in the opinion of the local union, may result in a strike. According to Section 3, Article 13, we beg to inform you of the cause of the matter in dispute. Present wages and conditions are such as to demand an immediate investigation by the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. This employer, the American Shoe Finding Company and Union Shank, the former manufacturing leather board shanks and the latter steel shanks, have signed agreement recognizing this union. But this same firm has a leather-board shank factory in Boston which is not operated under organized labor. The Union Shank Company supply both factories with steel shanks. At the present time the girls which tack the shanks are being laid off in the Whitman Factory and all steel shanks are being shipped to Boston Factory so that in the event of a strike by employes in Whitman Factories, the firm could continue their output, for a limited period, by having all shanks cut and tacked in the Boston Factory. Thus, they could prolong unsatisfactory conditions here in Local Union No. 16844. The question in dispute is a twenty per cent (20%) increase in wages for all employes of Whitman Factories, which are members of Local Union No. 16844. A foreman in the Union Shank Company having charge of all employes is working under a contract and he is making conditions disagreeable, and is cutting down expenses by making one man do two different operations in manufacture, which event the employes consider unfair, as the firm has signed an agreement to recognize the local union and to do business only with the Local Union as a body. Matters of adjustment of wages cannot be settled while "foreman under contract" is in charge. We are advising, according to instructions in Section 3, this this firm is doing two-thirds of the entire shank business in the United States. The complete information is being forwarded at this one time, owing to the immediate need of an investigation and settlement. Yours very truly, (Signed) JOHN S FAUNCE, President, Local Union #16844. 29 Vineyard Ave.228 LL October 27, 1919. Mr. John S, Faunce, President, Federal Labor Union No. 16844, 29 Vineyard Ave., Whitman, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your undated letter reached this office on October 25th and I have carefully noted contents of same. You state that your present wages and conditions are such as to demand an immediate investigation by the Executive Council and you give a report on the conditions at the American Shoe Finding Company. Let me say, in reply, that Section 2 of Article 13 of the Constitution states as follows: "In the event of a disagreement between a Local Union and an employer which, in the opinion of the Local Union, may result in a strike, such Union shall notify the President of the American Federation of Labor, who shall investigate, or cause an investigation to be made of the disagreement, and endeavor to adjust the difficulty. If his efforts should prove futile, he shall take such steps, as he may deem necessary in notifying the Executive Council, and if the majority of said Council shall decide that a strike is necessary such Union shall be authorized to order a strike, but that under no circumstances shall a strike or lockout be deemed legal, or moneys expended from the defense fund on that account, unless the strike or lockout shall have been first authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council." I also beg to call your attention to the fact that in case of strike or lockout, your local union would not be entitled to financial assistance from the defense fund, through the fact that it has not been in affiliation to the American Federation of Labor for one year, charter having been issued in August, 1919. I am, however, referring this matter to our Volunteer Organizer, Mr. George Douglas, Box 816, your city, asking that he get in touch with you and be of all assistance in bringing229 -2- about a satisfactory settlement of your dispute. I sincerely trust your local will be successful in securing the increase asked for. Please advise and counsel with Organizer Douglas and guard against any ill-advised action. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. 230 LL October 27, 1919. Mr. N. M. Morgan, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 311 N. 12th St., Henryetta, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find copy of letter I have just written to Secretary Shook, of Laborers' Protective Union No. 12888, your city, notifying them that their wage scale has been approved by the Executive Council. Please continue to assist the union in securing the enforcement of their scale and let me hear from you as to the final outcome of the matter. With kind regards and thanking you for giving this matter attention, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure. 231 LL October 27, 1919. Mr. L. J. Shook, Secretary, Laborers' Protective Union No. 12888. Box 41, Henryetta, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to advise you that the wage scale submitted by your local union for the approval of the Executive Council, was placed before that body and same was approved. This approval carries with it the authorization of your local to go out on strike, if necessary, in order to maintain your position and your members thereby be entitled to benefits from the defense fund, in accordance with Sections 4 and 5 of Article 13 of the Constitution. I sincerely trust, however, that it will not be necessary for your local to have recourse to the extreme measure of going out on strike and I want to take this opportunity of expressing the hope that no action will be taken without the matter being given careful consideration. I also trust that you will keep me advised fully just what is done and the results achieved. Please continue to advise and counsel with Organizer Morgan until a satisfactory settlement of your wage scale is brought about and let me hear from you as to the success your local has in securing this increase asked for. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.232 LL October 27, 1919. Mr. William Carr, Secretary, Janitors' Protective Union No. 10367, 16th & Capp Streets, San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to inform you th[??] new change in your agreement submitted by your local for the approval of the Executive Council, was placed before that body and same was approved. I am pleased to note from report of Organizer Walsh that your local has been receiving this increase since September 15th. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.233 LL October 27, 1919. Mr. John O. Walsh, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 117 Fair Oaks St., San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 13th received, in regard to the new wage scale and agreement of Janitors' Protective Union No. 10367. Enclosed please find copy of a letter I have just written to Secretary Carr of this local, notifying him that the Executive Council approved the new changes in their agreement. I am pleased to note that this was mutually agreed to between employer and employes and that they have been receiving it since September 15th. I appreciate very much the attention and advice you have given this local. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure234 LL October 25, 1919. Mr. Chris Herning, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 15284, 1516 S. Main St., Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 19th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for reply. You enclose copy of a request drawn up by the employes of the Rice Lake Excelsior Company, which was presented to them on the 16th of October and which has been accepted by the company. You state that you are now drawing up an agreement. I am very glad to note that your new demands have been accepted by the company and will be pleased to receive a copy of same when drawn up by your local. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.235 LL October 25, 1919. Mr. William Brown, Recording Secretary, Chemical Workers' Union No. 16418, 316 7th St., Niagara Falls, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 20th received and contents noted. You give report on the strike situation affecting the members of your local. Let me say, in reply, that our General Organizer, Henry Streifler, 383 Ellicott St., Buffalo, N.Y., has been instructed to be of all possible assistance in adjusting this matter and trust the officers of your local will advise and counsel with him until a satisfactory settlement has been brought about. I am sending copy of your letter to Organizer Streifler for his attention. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.236 LL October 25, 1919. Mr. Henry Streifler, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 383-7 Ellicott St., Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter just received from William Brown, Recording Secretary, Chemical Workers' Union No. 16418, Niagara Falls, together with carbon copy of my reply, which I am sending you for your information. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures. 237 COPY OFFICIAL WORKERS' UNION NO. 16418, October 20, 1919, Dear Sir and Brother: I thought that I would notify you by writing that we are out on a strike. We made a demand of 10 per cent raise which they refused to make any kind of a settlement. They told us they had 'nt made any dividends in the past year. They gave several other departments a raise that did'nt belong to the union, but when we asked for a little more they refused us, because we belonged to the union. Some of the men that are out on strike are only receiving 42 cents and hour. How can a man live and raise a family on that? We are out strong if we can only hold them out we will win the battle. If there is any advice that you can give us to help us win the strike it will mean a lot for us and I think that the other Chemical Factories will follow suit. They are hanging back to see if we win out. Hoping to hear from you in the near future, (Signed) WM. BROWN, Rec. Secty. , 316 7th St. , Niagara Falls, N.Y. 238 F Oct. 27,1919. Mr. Mark L. Crawford, 4678 Sheridan Road, Chicago, Ill. My dear Mr. Crawford: It was not until yesterday, Sunday, October 26th, that I had the opportunity of reaching your letter of October 31st, as I have been so over-whelmed with matters of the most vital importance, as you have doubtless noticed form the press reports, -the meeting of the Industrial Conference, meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, International Federation of Trade Unions Congress and International Labor Conference. However, I am writing briefly. I desire to say that before your letter was received your name had been presented to the Department of Labor through a letter addressed to me by a number of your friends from Chicago. The matter will be again taken up with the Department of Labor and I shall be very glad to do anything further I can. Please pardon the brevity of this, as I am so very crowded for time. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.239 F Oct. 25,1919. Mr. W.L. Brackinrace, Secretary Trades and Labor Council, Box 509, Aberdeen, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my telegram to you of September 22nd, you will please find enclosed copy of a letter received from E.H. Kerr, Lieut. Colonel, C.M.C., Chief, Retail & Subsistence Branch, War Department, together with copy of a report made to his office by the Zone Supply Officer, Omaha, Nebraska. The cause of the delay in this matter is due to the fact that the place was taken for Aberdeen, South Dakota, instead of Aberdeen, Washington. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.240 COPY F. WAR DEPARTMENT OFFICE OF THE QUARTERMASTER GENERAL DIRECTOR OF PURCHASE & STORAGE WASHINGTON October 7, 1919. President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. My dear Sir: Referring to complaint of Postmaster, Aberdeen, S.D. in regard to delay in receipt of subsistence supplies, inclosed herewith is copy of report made to this office by the Zone Supply Officer, Omaha, Nebraska, from whom these supplies were ordered. It is regretted exceedingly that there should have been cause for complaint in regard to this matter. Yours very truly, (Signed) E.H. Kerr Lieut. Colonel, C.M.C., Chief, Retail & Subsistence Branch.241 COPY F. October 1, 1919. Director of Storage, Surplus Property Division, Munitions Bldg., Sales to Postmasters. 1. Reference your transmitted telegram American Federation of Labor from Aberdeen, S.D., dated September 30th, signed Rogers Surplus Purcell. 2. Received from Postmaster at Aberdeen, S.D., Requ. #1, August 21st; Requ. #2, August 28th; Requ. #3, September 10th. During the first week of the Postmasters sale, we received hundreds of Postmasters orders. Many of these orders called for supplies not in stock. Up to September 1st, received information that 54 carloads of supplies were being shipped to Omaha, but did not state what kind of supplies. Made telegraphic requisition for some of the supplies most needed, but the best this depot got was canned corn, beans, tomatoes and corned beef, and bacon. Of the last two items, this depot had a large quantity on hand. What this depot expected to get, but did not receive caused a delay in hundreds of large orders. Small orders were being filled as fast as new complicated in structions permitted. Example, an order arrives in this depot. It is registered and given a file number. Most Post,asters send in daily orders. This made consolidation necessary at this office. This in compliance with instructions from Washington, and postal authorities, to prevent railroad congestion. After order is given a file number, examiners check articles called for, figure cost, purchasers and government postage, according to zone. Then Requisition is made. It is found as in Aberdeen, Postmasters' order #1 and #2 called for $609.61 for supplies and $144.12 for postage. But in making up these orders it is found that supplies valued at $530.92 can only be shipped. It is also found that purchasers postage will be $61.13, and government postage $58.45. Now according to instructions, the Zone Surplus Property Officer cannot take this Postmasters check, cash same and make refund as found. Check must be returned to Postmaster, correct check for supplies and postage be returned before shipment can be made. This corrected check is returned in from two to six days, depending upon how the Postmaster feels. Sometimes we receive sarcastic and insulting letters, telling us to cancel order. 3. U.S. Requ. #8558 has been made and covers Postmasters orders #1 and #2; his order #3 is covered by Requ. #9065. Shipments on Requ. #8558 will be made within the next day or two. 4. Up to September 25th this office received from Postmasters, 2309 orders; out of that number, we have made 748 Reqn's for Postmasters and 37 requisitions to municipalities, charitable institutions and federal employees. Value of subsistence supplies sold on these requisitions amounts to $197,090.95. 5. All Postmasters inquiring about their supplies are being informed that shipment will be made in from two to three weeks. 6. In regard to the remarks made about food profiteeting, there-2- is no answer to that. If there were a word of truth in that, the Omaha press would have told the public long ago. In fact this office has never seen any complaints from any of the newspapers in this zone, criticizing our work. Reporters call daily at this office. They are given all facts and know all of our true working conditions. The only complaints we do get are from Postmasters and Traveling preachers. By authority of the Zone Supply Officer. (Signed) Adam J. Hofmann, Captain. Q.M. Corps, Zone Surplus Property Office.243 LFL. October 24, 1919 Mr. H. M. Cross, Newton Upper Falls, Massachusetts. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 23rd instant received and contents noted. You enclose clipping without date or name of paper regarding the story of the strike of the millinery workers of New York City. Your letter is written on the typewriter, signed on the typewriter H. M. Cross and you do not state who you are, what you are and what you represent. You have full information as to who I am, what I am, and what I represent. Now permit me to ask several questions. Suppose you are a lawyer. Whenever it is reported that a lawyer has violated the ethics of his profession and it has been proven that he has acted in a manner unworthy of a gentleman and in direct violation of the solemn oath of obligation he assume when he entered the practice of law and when he became a member of the Bar Association, do you as a lawyer, and do the executive officers of the Bar Association (the lawyers' union) write to the Bar Association of which he is a member and condemn him? Assume you are a minister of the gospel. Ministers are but human beings with the same weaknesses and frailties of all other human beings. There are some of them who go wrong according to the ethics of the ministerial profession. A minister serves his apprenticeship in preparing for the ministry. He must attain certain requirements before he is accepted to membership in the Ministers' Union, that is, the Ministerial Association of which ever denomination he is an adherent. When he fails to keep his solemn oath of obligation to his union and falls by the wayside, does the whole public condemn the entire ministerial association and the good that it has accomplished for humanity? Is the failure of one man to live up to his solemn oath and obligation cause to condemn the ministerial association? The Bankers have their unions..the Bankers' Association. Perhaps you may be a banker. You will agree with me that there are many defaulting bankers and cashiers. Yet the public still maintains its trust in banks. I have never yet heard of a Bankers' Association or Bankers Union meeting in formal session to denounce one of its members who has proved a defaulter.244 Mr. H. M. Cross-----#2 And so it goes all the way down through every line of human activity and yet you would reqire, expect and demand from the men and women of labor such rectitude of conduct, such idealism of purpose, such dignity of procedure as you do not expect from any other group of citizens of this country. The men and women of labor are the same flesh and blood as all other men and women and when you consider the men and women of labor and their loyalty, their patriotism, their altruism, that which they have accomplished for the betterment not only of the toilers but for the citizenship generally and compare their efforts and their achievements with those of other groups of citizens, I have no fear as to what would be the verdict given by any fair-minded person. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.245 LFL. October 27, 1919 Mr. Alexander Kahn, Chairman, Jewish People's Relief Committee, 175 East Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 22nd instant received in which you advise me that the Jewish People's Relief Committee will hold a convention in Philadelphia from November 8th to 11th inclusive at the Adelphi Hotel. You also say that a mass meeting to further the relief work will be held on November 10th at 8 P.M. at the Metropolitan Opera House, Philadelphia, Pa. You express the desire that I should address either the mass meeting or the convention, preferably the mass meeting. I should be very glad to comply with your request but my engagements are of such a nature as will prevent my doing so. However the purpose of the convention and the mass meeting has my entire sympathy and approval. I regret exceedingly that I cannot be with you to convey that message in person. With best wishes for the success of your meeting, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.246 LFL. October 24, 1919 Mr. Herbert McCormick, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 428 Christian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 6th received and contents noted. You say that upon the instructions of the Central Labor Union you recommend that a commission as volunteer organizer be issued to Mr. Henry Friedman for Indianapolis and Vicinity. Our records show that several years ago the application for a commission for Mr. Friedman was not granted for good and sufficient reasons. In your recommendation, you say that Mr. Friedman is a member of the Retail Clerks' International Protective Association, Local Union No. 1. I wrote to Secretary Conway of the Retail Clerks' International Protective Association requesting him to advise me whether your recommendation met with their approval. I have not yet heard from him but I am in receipt of a letter from Mr. J. C. Shanessy, General Organizer of the Journeymen Barbers' International Union in which he says: "I most strenuously object to this appointment, on the ground that he is not a bona fide wage earner. He has not for a long time worked as a retail clerk; on the contrary, he is an employer of labor, and I sincerely trust that you will refuse to issue this commission." In view of the protest made by the Barbers' International Union, and the previous history in this matter I am sure you will agree with me that it would be a decided disadvantage to the labor movement of Indianapolis to issue a commission to Mr. Friedman. Hoping to hear from you further and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.247 LFL. October 23, 1919 Dr. Rupert Blue, Surgeon General, Treasury Department, The Public Health Service, Division of Veneral Disease, 228 First Street, NW., Washington, D. C. Dear Dr. Blue: Your letter of October 15th received and contents noted. You extend to me an invitation to deliver an address before a national "Keeping Fit" conference called by the United States Public Health Service to be held in Washington on November 4th and 5th for the purpose of developing plans for reaching the eight hundred thousand high school boys and the more than five million boys in industries with the "Keeping Fit" message. I would be very glad to comply with your request. However, it is impossible for me now to give you a definite answer. The International Labor Conference is scheduled to open October 29th. Whether my duties to the Congress will require my attendence November 4th and 5th I am not now in a position to say but I am free to say that if I can so arrange matters as to permit my accepting the invitation you extend, I shall be very happy to do so. With that proviso your invitation is accepted. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.248 VLY October 22, 1919. When replying kindly refer to Resolution No. 183. Mr. Matthew Woll, Vice-President, American Federation of Labor, Council of National Defense Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: As a member of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor you participated in the action of the Executive Council which referred to the resident officers of the A. F. of L. the subject matter of Resolution No. 183 of the Atlantic City Convention of the A. F. of L., which was introduced by the delegates from your international union and referred to the Executive Council. Resolution No. 183 deals with the proposed Federal Budget system. The Executive Council referred the entire subject matter to the officers at headquarters for investigation. I am writing to advise you that the matter will be given immediate attention and you will be duly advised in regard thereto. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.249 VLY October 23,1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 98. Mr.Thomas E. Burke, General Secretary-Treasurer, United Association of Plumbers & Steam Fitters of the United States and Canada, 411 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: In connection with the subject matter of Resolution No. 98 of the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor, enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which has just been addressed to Mr. William H. Johnston, President of the International Association of Machinists. Insofar as the letter concerns you, you will please consider it as equally addressed to you. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.250 VLY October 22, 1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO.98.. Mr.William H. Johnston, President, International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Building, Washington,D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its sessions at headquarters which began on October 5th. One of the matters given consideration was the case of the Machinists and Plumbers as per Resolution No. 98 of the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor. There was placed before the E. C. the letter from Mr. Robert Fechner, member of the General Executive Board of the I.A.of M., dated October 13, in which he made report of the conference held in this city on October 6-7, 1919, between the representatives of your respective organizations, and that the conference adjourned without accomplishing any result. The Executive Council deeply regrets the unsuccessful termination of the conference. However, in view of the actions of the conventions of the American Federation of Labor, the E.C. directed that the officers of the International Association of Machinists and the United Association of Plumbers and Steam Fitters of the United States and Canada should be advised that "we insist upon their adhering to and living up to the decisions already rendered by the conventions of the American Federation of Labor." I urge upon both organizations that every effort be put forth by them and by their fellow officers and members to abide by the decisions rendered and to that extend to help to solidify unity of action in the organized labor movement. Hoping to hear from you in regard to the above at your early convenience and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.251 VLY October 22,1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 217. Mr. William A. Spooner, Secretary, Central Labor Council, Alameda County, 510 Eleventh St., Oakland, California. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its sessions at headquarters. Among other matters to which the E. C. gave consideration was the subject matter of Resolution No. 217, introduced by delegates from your Central Labor Council to the Atlantic City convention of the A. F. of L. The resolution was adopted by the convention and referred to the Executive Council. Enclosed you will find copy of a letter which has been addressed to Mr. Matthew Woll, and which I think you will find self-explanatory. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.252 VLY October 22,1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 217: Mr. Matthew Woll, President, International Labor Press, Council of National Defense Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your attention is called to Resolution No. 217 introduced to and approved by the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor, and which reads as follows: WHEREAS, During our recent war many changes were made in the postal rules relative to newspapers; and WHEREAS, Many of the new rulings when placed into force were found to be detrimental to many of our Labor Papers; and WHEREAS, Owing to the arbitrariness of certain postmasters throughout the country, many of our labor papers have suffered great financial loss; therefore be it RESOLVED, That the Executive Council be directed to take this matter up with the Post Office Department to the end that such rules that hamper the good work of the Labor Press throughout the country may be cancelled. This matter came before the Executive Council of the A. F. of L at its recent meeting. The E. C.directed that the matter should be taken up with you and with the introducer of the resolution, that is, the Central Labor Council in Oakland, California, to the end that such action may be taken in the premises as the investigation of the case may warrant. I should be very glad therefore to have you advise me in regard to the above at your convenience. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.253 VLY October 23, 1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 40. Mr. William P. Clarke, President, American Flint Glass Workers Union, Rooms 738 Ohio Bldg., Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its sessions in this city, October 6-21. As this was the first regular meeting since the adjournment of the Atlantic City convention, it is the first opportunity which the E. C. has had to take up the matters referred to it by the convention. Among them, was the case of the Flint Glass Workers and the Machinists (Resolution No. 40) which was referred to the E. C. with instructions to use its good offices in bringing about an adjustment. Enclosed you will please find carbon copy of a letter which I have just addressed to the President of the International Association of Machinists. Insofar as it concerns you, I ask that you accept it as equally addressed to you. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.254 VLY October 23,1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 40. Mr. William H. Johnson, President, International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: As you know, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor met at headquarters October 6-21 in the intervals of the members of the E. C. as members of the labor group of fifteen meeting with the Presidential Industrial Conference. The E.C. took up the various matters referred to it by the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor. Among these subjects was the long-standing dispute between the Machinists and Flint Glass Workers. As you recall, the Executive Council was directed by the Atlantic City Convention to use its good offices to bring about an adjustment which will prove satisfactory to all parties concerned and which will in no way jeopardize the interests of either party, and that the E. C. should make report upon the subject to the next convention. The Executive Council referred the matter to the undersigned with directions to communicate with the officers of the International Association of Machinists. Therefore it is for the purpose of carrying out the instructions of the convention and the E. C. that I am now writing to you, and in addition to express my earnest hope that another effort will be made by the officers of your organization to carry into effect the decision of the American Federation of Labor in this long standing controversy. I am sure that you appreciate as much as I do the urgent necessity now above all other times in the history of the labor movement for all labor to lay aside as far as possible all matters of contention and friction, to the end that all labor may be solidly united in the effort to maintain that which we have already achieved and which such persistent efforts of the legislators and business are trying to take from us. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.255 VLY October 23,1919 WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 218. Mr. Abraham Greenstein, Secretary-Treasurer, International Jewelry Workers' Union, 63 Park Row, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its sessions, and among other matters given consideration was the subject of Resolution No. 218 which was introduced to the Atlantic City Convention by the delegates from your International Union, and adopted by the convention as follows: "WHEREAS, A controversy has arisen between the firm of Robert H. Ingersoll, manufacturers of the "Ingersoll Watch" and the International Jewelry Workers' Union, because of the spped-up system, introduced by the firm, with the object of rapidly increasing its wealth at the expense of the overworked and poorly compensated employes; and "WHEREAS, The firm of Robert H. Ingersoll & Brothers, manufacturers of the "Ingersoll Watch" has manifested a most hostile attitude towards organized labor by locking out all members of the International Jewelry Makers' Union in punishment for being bearers of the union book and insisting in employing only unorganized help in its factories; and "WHEREAS, Repeated efforts made by officials of the International Jewelry Makers' Union to bring about an amicable adjustment of the existing difficulties have failed, because of the antagonistic attitude the above firm has shown to committees representing organized workers employed in the factories of Robert H. Ingersol; therefore, be it "RESOLVED, That the delegates representing the membership of the American Federation of Labor in the Thirty-Ninth Annual Convention assembled, do hereby serve notice on the firm of Robert H. Ingersoll and Brothers, manufacturers of the "Ingersoll Watch" that unless said firm manifests its willingness to adjust the difficulties between the firm and the International Jewelry Workers' Union and discards with its hostile attitude toward organized labor, it will be put on the unfair list and notice be served to all subordinate organizations and membership affiliated with the American Federation of Labor in the United States and Canada.[*256*] -2- The convention referred the matter to the Executive Council with instructions to make an effort to adjust the difficulty. It came before the Executive Council at this meeting, and I am therefore writing to inquire from you as to what is the present status of the case and in what way the officers of the American Federation of Labor can be of assistance in bringing about an adjustment. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.257 VLY October 23,1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 216. Mr. A. J. Berres, Secretary-Treasurer, Metal Trades Department, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor met in session at Headquarters October 6-21, in the intervals of the attendance of the members of the E. C. at the Presidential Industrial Conference. Among the matters receiving consideration was the subject matter of Resolution No. 216 introduced at the Atlantic City convention by the delegates from the Machinists International Association, and approved by the convention. The Executive Council directed that the entire matter should be referred to the Metal Trades Department. I have therefore addressed a letter to Mr. William H. Johnston, President of the I. A. of M., advising him that this matter has been referred to you. Enclosed you will please find copy of the letter addressed to Mr. Johnson, which I think you will find self-explanatory. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.VLY October 23, 1919. When Replying Kindly Refer to Resolution No. 218. Mr. William H. Johnston, President International Association of Machinists, A. F of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its sessions which began October 8th. Among other matters receiving consideration was the subject of Resolution No. 216, introduced to the Atlantic City Convention by the delegate from your organization, which was adopted by the convention and which reads as follows: "WHEREAS, The S.F. Bowser Company, Manufacturers of auto service station equipment in Fort Wayne, Ind., have locked out the machinists employed by them and other metal trades workers employed by them, on account of their bona fide trades union activities; and "WHEREAS, This un-American company has taken a determined stand that the locked out workers must, if they desire to return to work, return plan of organization; therefore, be it "RESOLVED, That the American Federation of Labor, in convention assembled, emphatically condemn the arbitrary attitude of the S. F. Bowser Company; and be it further "RESOLVED, That the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. in conjunction with the executive officers of the organization directly affected, are directed to use their full influence and power to force this company to accept the principles of collective bargaining in dealing with its employes." The Executive Council directed that the entire subject matter of the above resolution be referred to the Metal Trades Department of the A. F. of L. with the information that the Executive Council will be glad to co-operate in the matter in any way within its power. I have therefore submitted the entire matter to the officers of the Metal Trades Department and will keep you advised of what is done in the premises. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.259 VLY October 22, 1919. When Replying KindlyRefer to Resolution No. 137. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Room 808, 1416 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor which has just concluded its session at headquarters, had under consideration Resolution No. 127 adopted by the Atlantic City Convention, which reads as follows: "WHEREAS, All indications point to the fact that thousands of workers from the war-torn countries of Europe will come to the United States soon after the peace treaty is signed in Paris; and "WHEREAS, Regardless of the different measures of restriction the majority of the newcomers may pass the necessary examinations; and "WHEREAS, Immigration, if not properly handled may become dangerous to the American labor movement if left to themselves to shift into industries and sections of this country where they cannot be assimilated; and "WHEREAS, The large interests of employers and manufacturers are using, or misusing immigrants to the detriment of American labor, because of their lack of knowledge or our conditions and customs; therefore, be it "RESOLVED, By this, the Thirty-ninth Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, that the Executive Council be, and hereby is instructed to investigate the advisability of the establishment of a trades union information bureau for immigrants in New York, preferably on Ellis Island, where the newcomers may be advised relative to their bona fide trades unions of America, to working conditions inregard to chances of obtaining employment relative to strikes and lockouts and such other information which may be valuable to them both from their and our point of view; and, be it further "RESOLVED, That if the Executive Council finds that the establishment of an information bureau is advisable, the council be and hereby is authorized to establish this bureau at their earliest opportunity." The convention referred the above to the E.C. for investigation and such action as the E. C. may deem necessary. The Executive Council in turn referred the entire subject matter to the officers at headquarters260 Mr. Hugh Frayne. -2- for investigation and report. I am therefore writing to you to request that you look into the entire situation as dealt with by the above resolution, and make report to me with such recommendations as the result of your investigation may seem to warrant. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.261 VLY October 22,1919. Mr. William H. Johnston, President, International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its session at headquarters. Among other matters receiving consideration, was the subject matter of Resolution 127 of the Atlantic City convention, which was introduced by the delegate from the International Association of Machinists , and referred to the Executive Councilfor investigation and such action as the E. C. might deem necessary to take in the premises. The Executive Council in turn referred the matter to the officers at headquarters for investigation and report. As you recall, the resolution deals with the advisability of the establishment of a trade union information bureau for immigrants in New York. The object of my writing to you is to advise you that the matter has been taken up by Secretary Morrison and myself for investigation, and we hope to be in a position to make report to the E. C. at our next meeting which has been scheduled for next December. Of course you will be kept duly advised of what final disposition is made of the matter. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.262 WCR:EJL Oct. 20, 1919. Mr. Jason Rogers, Publisher, The Globe, 73-83 Dey Street, New York City. Dear Sir: Your letter of Oct. 2 received. As it takes as entirely different viewpoint from that which you had previously written it places me in a position of not knowing just what you propose. In your first letter you said as one of the good things about your plan of profit sharing: "Strange as it may seem the lower the basis scale of wages decided upon as the base, the more fool proof the scheme would be." In your letter of October 2 you state that profit sharing should start only -- "After the workers have been paid wages or salaries sufficient to enable them to live as decent American citizens." What is to be understood by these conflicting statements? You also said in your first letter: "The plan I am indicating would be opposed by labor agitators for their services would no longer be required, as every group of employes would automatically become employers of labor." Your last letter states: "I do not believe that profit sharing such as I have attempted to outline would eliminate trade unions, but I do believe that it would make them more essential to industry for sane collective bargaining," etc. Your contention that labor "agitators" would no longer be required as the employes would become employers does not sub-263 (Jason Rogers -- 2). substantiate this statement. You add: "By this I mean that it (profit sharing) would kill off the possibility of disturbances through radical labor agitators and fomenters of trouble, whose livelihoods are contingent upon their ability to produce trouble through misrepresentation of the motives of those operating our various industries." It may be news to you to know that officials of trade unions do not wish strikes. When called they are ordered by the rank and file. Being officials they must follow the instructions of their members. Your experience with labor officials appears to have been very satisfactory. I presume you know that labor "agitators", as you call them, are really labor officials. I cannot understand how you can justify your claim that the men you deal with are all right and all other labor officials are wrong. But if your plan should succeed, those labor officials you speak of so highly will also lose their jobs,although you do not classify them as "agitators". It is impossible to construe your plan of profit sharing in any other light than that it is to eliminate the trade union. You admit this by the statement that all officials would be eliminated and the employes will become employers. In that event they could not remain members of trade unions. Labor officials, or, as you term them, labor "agitators", are necessary to protect the interests of the members. Even if your plan should succeed it would be necessary to have representatives to look after the interests of the employes. For without organization they would have no way of protecting their interests. Why should you want this right taken away? You said in your first letter that all New York newspapers did not make the same money, therefore they found it difficult to pay the same wages although they did so. If your profit sharing was in force you would find much greater difficulties. For instance, if there were twenty newspapers that shared the profits, they would range from almost nothing to a large sum. Do you suppose that the members of the unions, which you say would still exist without the "agitators", would agree to accept a different amount from the profits of the poor paper than it could get from the one very rich? Only recently the railroad administration made a universal wage agreement with the shopmen for 400 railroads. The object was to eliminate the most objectionable feature in railroad wage making. In the old days the roads paid different wages. This caused endless strife as well as effective argument for the workers when they asked pay on one road as high as that paid on another. Sometimes the employes on our road would get more; then the employes on the railroad whose wages had been passed would start an agitation for more. This kept up an employes' endless competitive battle264 (Jason Rogers -- 2) for higher wages. The national agreement ends all this strife and the railroad managers approve of it. All printers want the same minimum wages on the newspapers of a city. They would also want the amount of profit sharing to be universal. How would you manage to see that the employee of the twenty newspapers would receive the same shar of the profits based on the richest paper? If they did not, there would be strife and plenty of it. It would be the wage question over again in a magnified form. To tell the truth we are much farther apart than you suggest. In fact, our opinions are irreconcilable. After rereading both letters it is impossible to see any good that can come to labor by profit sharing and your way of making it possible makes it all the more objectionable. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.265 EP October 25, 1919[1] Mr. J. M. Wilson, Rec. Sec'y., Egg Inspectors' Union No. 16086, 27 Noe St., San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 20 received and contents noted. In reply permit me to say that any applicant for membership in your local union who is located within the jurisdiction of your local, who is employed at the same work that is performed by your members and who is known to be a man of good character and who will take the solemn obligation of loyalty to the union and to the organized labor movement is entitled to membership in your union. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.266 HMW:WCR. Oct. 27, 1919. Mr. Henry F. Browning, Recording Secretary, Baltimore Federation of Labor, 3007 Arunah Avenue, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your communication asking for information of the "Republican Publicity Association" received. This is a matter of which we have no information. Permit me to suggest that you make inquiry of the chairman of the National Republican Committee, who is better informed on such matters than any one else. With best wishes for yourself and hoping to hear from you often, I remain Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.267 Washington, D. C., October 27, 1919 To be sent to the names and addresses on attached list: No other delegates to the International Federation of Trade Unions except Mr. Oudegeest have arrived. Therefore, he informed me today that there will be no meeting tomorrow nor until later when delegates shall have arrived of which you will be duly notified. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. October 27th, 1919 This telegram to be sent to the following:- Daniel J. Tobin, [* | *] 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana. James Duncan, [* | *] 25 School Street, Quincy, Massachusetts. Joseph F. Valentine, [* | *] Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Frank Duffy, [* | *] Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. William Green, [* | *] 1102-8 Merchants Bank Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. W. D. Mahon, [* | *] 104 East High Street, Detroit, Michigan. T. A. Rickert, [* | *] 275 West Washington Street, Chicago, Illinois Jacob Fischer, [* | *] 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana268 Washington, D. C., October 27,1919 Mr. Jos. W. Jones, Box 158, Meridian, Mississippi. Telegram received. Conference which will be called by order of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor will be for the executive officers of national and international unions and railroad brotherhoods. I have not been authorized to extend invitation to state federations. To know that the Mississippi State Body stands ready to cooperate and serve is very encouraging and helpful. Thank you for your message and convey best greetings to officers and delegates. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. OF L.269 Washington, D.C., October 27,1 Mr. Henry White, 3276 West State St., Jacksonville, Florida. Acting President International Union of Electrical Workers wires me regarding some trouble between the Engineers and Electrical Workers employed in Jacksonville shipyards. Your attention is called to Section nine Article eleven of American Federation of Labor Constitution. Whatever course is taken by your central body should be in conformity with the constitution. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. OF L. WASHINGTON,D. C., October 27,1919. Mr. James P. Noonan, 406 Reisch Bldg., Springfield, Illinois. Telegram received. I wired the Central Labor Union of Jacksonville as follows. Quote. Acting President International Union of Electrical Workers wires me regarding some trouble between the Engineers and Electrical Workers employed in Jacksonville shipyards. Your attention is called to Section Nine Article Eleven of American Federation of Labor Constitution. Whatever course is taken by your central body should be in conformity with the constitution. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. OF L.270 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. ORGD NOV. 15TH 1881. LABOR OMNIA VINCIT LONG DISTANCE TELEPHONE MAIN 3871-2-3-4-5-6 CABLE ADDRESS, AFEL. AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR Executive Council President, SAMUEL GOMPERS. Secretary, FRANK MORRISON, Treasurer, DANIEL J. TOBIN, 222 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Ind. First Vice-President, JAMES DUNCAN, 25 School Street, Quincy, Mass. Second Vice-President, JOS. F. VALENTINE, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio, Third Vice-President, FRANK DUFFY, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Fourth Vice-President, WILLIAM GREEN, 1102-8 Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Fifth Vice-President, W. D. MAHON, 104 East High Street, Detroit, Mich. Sixth Vice-President, T. A. RICKERT, 175 West Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Seventh Vice-President, JACOB FISCHER, 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Ind. Eighth Vice-President, MATTHEW WOLL, 6111 Bishop Street, Chicago, Ill. A. F. of L. BUILDING Washington, D.C. October 28, 1919. (This letter sent to the Presidents of the National and International Unions on October 28th) Dear Sir and Brother: Nearly a month before the declaration of war by the United States Government, the executives of the national and international unions met in conference in Washington and then and there declared Labor's attitude toward our government whether in peace or in war, and Labor made good. The armistice was signed November 11, 1918. Automatically hostilities have ended. Technically we are yet in a state of war. The return of industry from a war footing to a peace basis is not readily accomplished. The patriotic fervor [* for *] [of] our country in peril, [* brought about *] [for] [* by *] the dangers which threatened the overthrow of democracy and freedom, seems to have subsided. In this critical reconstruction period Labor is confronted with grave dangers affecting the very foundation of its structure. So grave is the situation regarded that at its recent meeting, the Executives Council of the American Federation of Labor and the representatives of the Railroad Brotherhoods agreed that the executives of the national and international unions should be invited to participate in a conference at the headquarters of the A. F. of L. at ten o'clock on the morning of December 13, 1919, and there to take counsel and to formulate such action as may be essential to safeguard and promote the rights, interests and freedom of the wage earners, the workers, who form the great mass of the people of our Republic. It is imperative that the responsible representatives of the labor movement shall, therefore, consider the situation in the industrial and legislative field and agree upon fundamental principles and a program which the wage earners will accept in performing their duties as citizens and at the same time maintaining the right of free men in order to conserve human interest and welfare. We conferred with the representatives of the various farmers organizations. The conventions of these several bodies will be held within the next thirty days. The representatives of the farmers, while in sympathy with the purpose of the conference, did not feel NOW FOR THE FOUR MILLION MARK-2- that they had the authority to append their names to this call. However, formal communications will be sent to their conventions inviting them to appoint representatives to participate in the conference of December 13th with the authority to speak in the name of the organizations they represent. You are earnestly urged to attend the conference in person, and thereby give the most effective and responsible expression of the needs to meet the situation. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. )Samuel Gompers, President, )James Duncan, First Vice-President, )Jos. F. Valentine, Second Vice-President, )Frank Duffy, Third Vice-President, )William Green, Fourth Vice-President, )W. D. Mahon, Fifth Vice-President, )T. A. Rickert, Sixth Vice-President, )Jacob Fischer, Seventh Vice-President, )Matthew Woll, Eighth Vice-President, )Daniel J. Tobin, Treasurer, )Frank Morrison, Secretary. Warren S. Stone, Grand Chief, Brotherhood Locomotive Engineers Timothy Shea, Grand Chief, Brotherhood Locomotive Firemen W. E. Lee, Grand Chief Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen L. E. Sheppard, Grand Chief Order Railway Conductors of America.271 LAS; AS. October 27, 1919. Mr. A. R. Smith, Secretary Joplin Central Labor Union, Route 5, Box 441, Joplin, MO. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 24th addressed to Secretary Morrison has been referred to me for attention. You state that when you forwarded the recommendation for a commission for Brother Wechselberger that an error was made in his name and you return the commission for correction. Permit me to state that a new commission will be made out and forwarded to Brother Otto Wechselberger in accordance with your communication. I note you state that he has not received the package of organizer's literature forwarded and I beg to advise that the same was mailed to him with his commission, and if it has not been received upon the receipt of this communication kindly write me and a duplicate supply will be forwarded. Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.272 AH Oct. 27, 1919. Mr. Matt Lewis, President, Freight Handlers' Union No. 16406, 2505 Spring St., Little Rock, Ark. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of the 19th instant received asking for advice relative to securing the affiliation of those men who work with your members daily but who refuse to come into your union. I beg to state that this is a matter that should be left for the time being for the influence of your organization to assist in solving. The members of your organization are making the contest for the improvement of the conditions of labor of those coming under its jurisdiction. Those persons opposed to a union shop, what they are pleased to term a "closed shop", contend that labor organizations make this an issue for the "supremacy of labor". The reason the unions make it an issue is, that the members of a particular craft or calling may be in an effective position to negotiate with the employers in the matter of demands which may be reasonable and just and so that they may not be in such a state that their employers may enforce whatever conditions they please without regard to the welfare of the workers. Men who refuse to join a union of their trade are either without ambition insofar as their own welfare is concerned, or that of their fellow workers, or they lack the stamina or energy to do the thing that will be helpful to themselves and their fellow men. An organization that is starting out can count upon the opposition of their employers in nearly every instance and it cannot attract to itself greater difficulties that it may be able to meet and overcome. They must, therefore, proceed in accordance with their strength and ability to do the very best they can in the circumstances surrounding their effort and let the question of recognition be held in abeyance until the organization is strong enough to successfully support this principle. The members of your organization should discuss the question with the unorganized workers and invite them to attend the meetings of the union where there may be an opportunity to give them a better understanding in regard to the work the organization is trying to do. With kind regards, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.273 VLY October 28, 1919. Mr. Albert J. Kugler, General Organizer, International Union of the United Brewery, Flour and Soft Drink Workers of America, 156 Grant Avenue, Jersey City, N.J. Dir Sir and Brother: For your information I am sending you herein a copy of letter which I addressed to President Wilson on October 20th on the subject of the Prohibition Enforcement Bill. It may prove of interest to you in connection with the press reports of this morn ing, stating that the President has vetoed the bill. With best wishes, and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.274 VLY October 23,1919 Mr. J. C.Skemp, General Secretary-Treasurer, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of August 26th I advised you that the subject matter of Resolution No. 105, introduced to the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor by the delegates from your organization, had been scheduled for consideration of the Executive Council at the next meeting. The Executive Council has just concluded its sessions in this city, and among other matters referred by it to the resident members for action was the above subject. In accordance with instructions, I have taken up the matter with the Secretary of the Navy Department and the Secretary of the War Department and will advise you as to any action taken in the matter. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.275 VLY October 23, 1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION 178. Mr. H. M. Comerford, Secretary, International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers, 6334 Yale Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its sessions at headquarters. Among other matters taken up for consideration was the subject of Resolution No. 178, introduced to the Atlantic City Convention of the A. F. of L. by the delegates from your international union, and adopted by the convention. Enclosed herewith you will please find carbon copy of a letter which has just been addressed to the Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers of America on this matter. Insofar as the letter concerns you, I ask that you consider it as equally addressed to you. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*276*] VLY October 23,1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION 178: Mr. H. L. Hope, Secretary-Treasurer, Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers of America, Suite 100 Oil Operators Bldg., Ft. Worth, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your attention is called to Resolution No. 178, introduced by the delegates from the International Steam and Operating Engineers to the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor and adopted by the convention; as follows: "WHEREAS, At the St. Paul convention of the American Federation of Labor, the oil well workers presented an application for a charter which was protested against by several international organizations; and "WHEREAS, After numerous conferences between organizations of the protesting organizations and the oil well workers, the oil well workers presented a signed agreement agreeing to take no person into their organization coming under the jurisdiction of any organization now chartered by the American Federation of Labor, whereupon the protests were withdrawn; and "WHEREAS, The oil well workers are now taking in and claiming jurisdiction over engineers: therefore, be it "RESOLVED, That this convention instruct the oil well workers to cease taking in these engineers and transfer those already taken in into the International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers; and, be it further "RESOLVED, That in the event of their refusal to comply and cease their encroachments on the jurisdictional rights of other international unions, the Executive Council stand instructed to suspend their charter until such time as they do comply with the order of this convention and agree to live up to their signed agreement with the international unions." The convention referred this resolution to the Executive Council with directions to arrange such a conference of the parties at interest for the purpose of adjusting the grievance as provided by the laws of the A. F. of L. The Executive Council has just concluded its sessions at headquarters held October 6-21 in the intervals of the attendance of the member[*277*] -2- bere of the E. C. upon the Presidential industrial conference. When considering Resolution No. 178 it was referred to the officers at headquarters to comply with the directions of the convention. I am therefore writing to you and to the officers of the Steam and Operating Engineers organization to request you and them to meet in conference at the headquarters of the A. F. of L. at 3 o'clock on the afternoon of December 14 for the purpose of holding a conference and endeavoring to reach some satisfactory basis of agreement in conformity with the directions of the convention. Please advise me in regard to the above at your early convenience and oblige Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.278 LFL. October 28, 1919 Mr. Ernest Bohm, Corresponding Secretary, Central Federated Union of Greater New York and Vicinity, Labor Temple, 243 East 84th Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 25th received and contents noted. You advise me that the Central Federated Union has referred the Pressmen's controversy to the General Executive Board with instructions to try and bring harmony between the contending parties. You further advise that the Executive Committee will meet on October 31st, 7 P.M., Room 13, 243 E. 84th Street, New York City and you ask that I should attend that meeting. While not unmindful of the importance of the meeting and the matters to be addressed there, yet my engagements are of such a nature as to make it impossible for me to attend that meeting. Please do not fail to keep me advised as to the result of the meeting. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor[*279*] VLY October 22, 1919. WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOULTION NO. 28. Mrs. R. E. Ruffa, Secretary, Stenographers, Typewriters, Bookkeepers and Assistants No. 16405, 5364 North 28th Ave., Omaha, Nebraska. Dear Madam: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded its two weeks session at headquarters. Among other matters receiving consideration was resolution No. 28 of the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor, introduced by the delegates from your local union and dealing with the controversy between your local union and the officers of the association known as the "Woodmen of the World." The convention referred the subject matter of that resolution to the Executive Council. The E. C. considered at length the entire subject matter and directed that you and your fellow officers should be advised that in the opinion of the Executive Council the best and most efficacious course to pursue to bring about the desired result is that every effort should be put forth by your local union to completely organize the offices of the Woodmen of the World. Let me prevail upon your union to be practical in its every action in dealing with this and other subjects. If desired by you I should be very glad to request the organizer of the American Federation of Labor in Omaha to confer with you and the other officers of your local union to the end that he may co-operate and assist you in carrying out the above suggestion. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, and with best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.280 VLY October 23,1919. Sir: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded the work of the first regular session it has held since the annual convention of the American Federation of Labor in Atlantic City last June. My colleagues of the Executive Council had under consideration the various resolutions and subjects referred to them by the convention. One of the resolutions to which the convention directed the Executive Council to give its attention is as follows: "RESOLVED, That the officers of the American Federation of Labor be instructed to use their good offices with the Secretary of the Navy to the end; (1) That the forty-four hour week shall be established in all Navy Yards; (2) that all piece work shall be abolished in Navy Yards; (3) that no workman shall be required to do any work other than that of the craft under which he is classified." The convention in referring the above matter to the Executive Council declared: "The resolutions seek to instruct the officials of the American Federation of Labor to endeavor to induce the Secretary of the Navy to put a stop to the present system of doing piece work in the Navy Yards, inaugurate the 44-hour week and impose no tasks on men at any work other than that of the crafts under which he is classified. "The hearing of your committee brought out the fact that artisans who entered the Navy Yards as qualified for certain work and expecting to be employed at that class of work were put on regular service in the Navy and people without experience put upon the work at which the experienced men should be employed. It appears to your committee that this is not only an injustice to the skilled employe who goes into the Navy Yards, but it is a pernicious and expensive system for any Government department to follow." The convention furth expressed itself as follows: "As your committee has already made a favorable recommendation on the 44-hour week we recommend the adoption of that portion of the resolution referring to this subject."281 -2- In dealing with the provisions of the resolution the convention said: "Referring to that portion of the resolution which says 'that all piece work shall be abolished in Navy Yards,' your committee desires to emphasize the fact that it believes the system of putting artisans upon a piece work basis is most objectionable in private industry, and when put into effect in Governmental departments is wholly unsuccessful and without justification. There can be no question that the proper method to be employed in Governmental departments is upon a fixed price for certain hours of work, and this convention should do everything in can to bring about this desire reform." By an amendment to the above, the convention directed that the above declaration should be applied to the War Department also. The Executive Council directed the resident officers of the E. C. to submit the above matter to you and at the same time to express the earnest hope that the War Department may see its way clear to issue such orders to its employes to which the above resolution refers, as will remedy the situation with which the resolution deals. Thanking you in advance for your attention to this matter, and trusting that I may be advised in regards thereto, I am Respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Honorable Newton D. Baker, Secretary Department of War, Washington, D. C.282 VLY October 22,1919. Sir: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just concluded the work of the first regular session it has held since the annual convention of the American Federation of Labor in Atlantic City last June. My colleagues of the Executive Council had under consideration the various resolutions and subjects referred to them by the convention. One of the resolutions to which the convention directed the Executive Council to give its attention is as follows: "RESOLVED, That the officers of the American Federation of Labor be instructed to use their good offices with the Secretary of the Navy to the end (1) That the forty-four hour week shall be established in all Navy Yards; (2) that all piece work shall be abolished in Navy Yards; and (3) that no workman shall be required to do any work other than that of the craft under which he is classified." The convention in referring the above matter to the E. C. declared: "The resolutions seek to instruct the officials of the American Federation of Labor to endeavor to induce the Secretary of the Navy to put a stop to the present system of doing piece work in the Navy Yards, inaugurate the 44-hour week and impose no tasks on men at any work other than that of the crafts under which he is classified. "The hearing of your committee brought out the fact that artisans who entered the Navy Yards as qualified for certain work and expecting to be employed at that class of work were put on regular service in the Navy and people without experience put upon the work at which the experienced men should be employed. It appears to your committee that this is not only an injustice to the skilled employe who goes into the Navy Yards, but it is a pernicious and expensive system for any Government department to follow." The convention further expressed itself as follows: "As your committee has already made a favorable recommendation on the 44-hour week we recommend the adoption of that portion of the resolution referring to this subject."283 -2- In dealing with the provisions of the resolution the convention said: "Referring to that portion of the resolution which says 'that all piece work shall be abolished in Navy Yards,' your committee desires to emphasize the fact that it believes the system of putting artisans upon a piece work basis is most objectionable in private industry, and when put into effect in Governmental departments is wholly unsuccessful and without justification. There can be no question that the proper method to be employed in Governmental departments is upon a fixed price for certain hours of work, and this convention should do everything it can to bring about this desired reform." By an amendment to the above, the convention directed that the above declaration should be applied to the War Department also. The Executive Council directed the resident officers of the E. C. to submit the above matter to you and at the same time to express the earnest hope that the Navy Department may see its way clear to issue such orders to its employes to which the above resolution refers, as will remedy the situation with which the resolution deals. Thanking you in advance for your attention to this matter and trusting that I may be advised in regards thereto, I am Respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Honorable Josephus Daniels, Secretary Department of the Navy, Washington, D. C.284 Washington, D. C., October 28,1919. Mr. William F. Greig, 328 East Duval Street, Jacksonville, Florida. Acting President International Union of Electrical Workers wires me regarding some trouble between Engineers and Electrical Workers Employed in Jacksonville shipyards. Your attention is called to Section nine Article eleven of American Federation of Labor Constitution. Whatever course is taken by your central body should be in conformity with the constitution. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. OF L. Washington, D. C., October 28, 1919 Mrs. J. Borden Harriman, Chairman, Executive Committee Womens' Non-Partisan Committee for the League of Nations, Colony Club, New York, N.Y. It is very gratifying to know of the work of the Women's Non-Partisan Committee for the League of Nations. My warmest sympathies are with you in your work in urging upon the Senate immediate ratification of the Treaty. It is most regrettable that Senate has not yet acted. May every success attend your efforts. SAMUEL GOMPERS Charge A. F. of L. 285 Washington, D. C., October 28, 1919 City Editor, Jewish Daily Forward, 1128 Blue Island Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Your telegram received. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has declared its purpose to support the striking steel workers. It urges all organized labor and friends everywhere to give their moral and financial support to the end that an honorable settlement may be reached. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. 286 LFL. October 28,1919 Mr. Gino Baldesi, New Willard Hotel, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- In conformity with the request you made this morning our Shipping Department will send you the following:- Socialism as an Incubus on the American Labor Movement, By J. W. Sullivan------------------------- ------$.50 cents and Hayes Robbins. The American Labor Movement, Its Makeup, Achievements and Aspirations, By Samuel Gompers---------------- .05 " Should a Political Labor Party Be Formed, By Samuel Gompers-------------------------------- .10 " American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program Initiative, Referendum and Recall, By Executive Council, A.F. of L.------------------ What Does Labor Want? By Samuel Gompers-------------------------------- .05 " Organized Labor; Its Struggles, Its Enemies and Fool Friends, By Samuel Gompers------------------ .05 " Legislative Achievements of the A.F. of L.,---------------- .05 " You can procure Mr. Gompers' two books, AMERICAN LABOR AND THE WAR and LABOR IN EUROPE AND AMERICA from Brentanos, 1200 F Street, NW., Washington, D. C. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.287 LFL. October 28,1919 Mrs. Guy Mallon, President, Woman's City Club, Lincoln Club Building, 715 Race Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Madam:- Your letter of the 25th instant received and contents noted. I am very appreciative of the invitation you extend for me to address the Woman's City Club sometime mutually agreeable and convenient. At present I am so crowded and over-whelmed with work of the most vital importance and pressing nature that I cannot now give you any assurance when I will be in a position to accept your invitation. There is located at Cincinnati one of the well-known men in the labor movement, Mr. John P. Frey, Editor of the Iron Molders' Journal, Commercial Tribune Building. I am sure that if you would invite Mr. Frey to address your Club you would be very gratified with his address. He is a well-known speaker and lecturer. Again thanking you for the courtesy of your invitation, I am, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.288 E. Oct. 27, 1919. Mr. William P. Short, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 508 Maynard Bldg., Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have received from Mr. A. L. Dickson, Secretary of the Central Labor Council of Tacoma, regarding Organizer Charles Perry Taylor. You will also find enclosed a carbon copy of my reply. I would appreciate your prompt reply regarding the entire subject matter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.289 CENTRAL LABOR COUNCIL Tacoma, Washington October 18, 1919. [Mr. Samuel Gompers, President,] Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- The Executive Board of this Council brought in the following recommendation: "We recommend that the Council's Secretary be instructed to write the President of the American Federation of Labor, requesting that the commission of Charles Perry Taylor as organizer for the A. F. of L. be annuled for conduct unbecoming a member of the American Labor movement." Regularly moved and seconded that the recommendation be concured in, and that the Secretary be so instructed. Such is the action as passed by this Council and I submit it to you for your consideration. If you should wish any concrete data pertaining to the matter, it will be gladly furnished. Yours fraternally, CENTRAL LABOR COUNCIL OF TACOMA A. L. DICKSON Secretary290 EP October 23, 1919. Mr. Timothy Flaherty, President, Intl. Union of Steam & Operating Engineers, Local No. 556, 4940 Christiana Ave., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers 291 EP October 28, 1919. Mr. Percy Shippley, President, Boiler Makers & Iron Shipbuilders Local No. 329, c/o Mr. Stanley Ratajski, 544 E. Gerard Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers292 EP October 28, 1919. Mr. Chas. S. Rodgers, President, Hog Island Local No. 331, Int. Brotherhood of Boiler Makers Iron Shipbuilders and Helpers of America, 614 Read Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers293 EP October 28, 1919. Mr. Jos. McDonough, President, Local No. 564, I.B.E.W., c/o Mr. Chas. Reef, 340 Irving Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the Executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers294 VLY October 25, 1919. Mr. J. B. Lewis, Secretary, Justice Lodge No. 108, International Association of Iron Steel and Tine Workers, 4414 Superior Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions. of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers295 VLY October 25, 1919. Mr. F. Rescher, Secretary, Brooklyn Central Labor Union, 764 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, New York. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions, of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers296 E. Oct. 28, 1919. Dr. Beesley, American Red Cross, Washington, D.C. Dear Dr. Beesley: On the principle of better late then never I am sending you herewith the article signed by President Gompers regarding the work of the Red Cross. The first opportunity I had to take the matter up with him was Sunday. He and I worked out to his house all day. I trust that the enclosed is not too late to serve your purpose. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.297 E. October 27, 1919. Mr. A. L. Dickson, Secretary-Treasurer, Central Labor Council, 1151 1/2 Broadway, Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother:- In your letter of October 18th you transmit the recommendation of the Executive Board of the Central Labor Council "requesting that the commission of Charles Perry Taylor as organizer for the American Federation of Labor be annulled for conduct unbecoming a member of the American Labor movement." Our records show that Mr. Taylor has held a commission as organizer for the A. F. of L. since February 25, 1909 and was appointed upon the recommendation of the Washington State Federation of Labor as organizer for the state of Washington and that on February 26, 1913 upon the renewal of his commission it was for organizer for the United States. Copy of your letter will therefore, be submitted to the Washington State Federation of Labor. In the meantime, I request that you submit in detail the reasons why the Central Labor Council has taken the action it has in the matter of requesting that Mr. Taylor's commission be annulled "for conduct unbecoming a member of the American labor movement." Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.298 EP October 28, 1919. Mr. L.F. Savage, President, Portsmouth Metal Trader Council, c/o F.F. Giles, 625 Armstrong St., Portsmouth, Va. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers299 EP October 28, 1919. Mr. L. G. Wear, Chairman, Federated Shop Committee, 101 So. Kentucky Ave., Sedalia, Mo. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers300 EP October 28, 1919. Mr. W. O. Winstow, Secretary, Balt. Lodge #381, U.B. of M.W.E.& R.S.L., Bellplaine, Iowa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers301 EP October 28, 1919. Mr. J. H. Hall, Jr., President, Central Labor Union, 802 Washington St., Portsmouth, Va. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers302 VLY October 25, 1919. Mr. Thomas Avery, Secretary, Federation of Labor, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the Executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions, of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers303 VLY October 25, 1919 Mr. Louis Wayand, Acting President, International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America, Room 309 Wyandotte Bldg., Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future for the Executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions, of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers304 E. Oct. 29, 1919. DOCUMENT [#21] EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: In compliance with the directions of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its recent meeting held in Washington, an invitation was extended to the executives of the national and international unions to meet in conference in Washington, on December 13, 1919. Copy of that invitation is enclosed herein. The enclosed explains how it is that the names of the officials of the Railroad Brotherhood are upon the invitation. I trust that the circular letter discloses that I have carried out the intent and purpose of the Executive Council. I should add that letters of invitation will go forward in a day or so to the executive officers of the several organizations of farmers. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.305 LFL. October 29th, 1919 Mr. E. G. Furtenbaugh, Recording Secretary, Carpenters Local Union No. 1551, 1118 8th Street, Three Rivers, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 24th received and contents noted. Your letter refers to charges made against Organizer Forest Flin of Three Rivers, Michigan. I have sent a copy of your letter to Mr. William L. Hutcheson, President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters Building, Indianapolis, Indiana and you will, no doubt, hear from Mr. Hutcheson in regard to the matter at an early date. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.306 LFL. October 29th, 1919 Mr. J.A. Mac Caskie, Secretary, International Steel Plate Transferrers Association, of America, 65 North 11th Street, Newark, N.J. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 25th is very gratifying and pleasing. I thank you and through you the officers and delegates to your recent convention for the message which you convey on their behalf. Again thanking you, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor307 LFL. October 29, 1919 Mr. J. Melbourne Shortliffe, 3 Summer Road, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs that I should acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 26th which he has read with interest but he is so very crowded with vitally important matters that he is unable to make personal reply at present. He thanks you for writing. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.308 LFL. October 29, 1919 Mr. William L. Hutcheson, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter from the secretary of your local union #1551 of Three Rivers, Michigan regarding Forest Flin, member of this local unions and volunteer organizer for the American Federation of Labor. Our records show that commission was issued for Mr. Forest Flin on September 2nd, 1919 upon the recommendation of Local Union No. 1551. Before taking any steps, the entire matter is submitted to you for your advice. Hoping to hear from you at your convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.309 Three Rivers, Michigan October 24, 1919 COPY LFL. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, A. F. of L., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- Your organizer that your appointed for the city of 3 Rivers and vicinity is in trouble. Mr. Forest Flin organized the Hod Carriers and Laborers some two weeks ago and apparently through the influence of Fairbanks, Morse and Company, they called a Citizen's meeting and condemned Mr. Flin the organizer as a Bolsheviki and politely told him to leave this country before six o'clock the following morning or they would make an example of him, Mr. Flin has been a member of this Local 1551 of carpenters something like four years and we as a membership of over fifty members have never heard him utter a word that he is anything but a good American citizen we feel that it is a frame-up against him-----if the charges they they claim against him are true why did they as business men and legal talent of this city order him out of the country. Why not prefer charges against him, have him arrested, tried and if convicted punished according to law. We as Local 1551 C. and J. of A. do respectfully appeal to you as President of the A.F. of L. for advice and would very much like to have a representative sent her to look into the matter for we feel at this time that he (Mr. Flin) should have the support of the A.F. of L. Please give this some thought for we do not think Mr. Flin guilty of charges made against him. Fratnerally yours, (Signed) E. G. Furtenbaugh, Rec.Sec. 118 8th street, 3 Rivers, Michigan. Union 1551, C. & J. of A.310 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. George Covington, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Cape Girardear, MO. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 22nd received and contents noted. Relative to your inquiry as to your organization of machinists permit me to state that the American Federation of Labor could not issue a charter to these workers if there are sufficient members to form a local union of machinists. Relative to the bookkeepers, permit me to state that the American Federation of Labor issues charters direct to this class of workers under the title of Stenographers, Typewriters, Bookkeepers and Assistants', and I am enclosing herein an application blank and memorandum which will give you full information as to the fees charged, etc. Trusting the above is satisfactory, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.311 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. John Golden, President, Un ited Textile Workers of America, 86 Bible House, NEW YORK CITY. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer H. A. Leisenring, 1019 Railroad Avenue, Sunbury, Pennsylvania in a communication to this office has the following comment to make relative to the Textile plants of the above city: " The Textile Plants of this city, silk mills and dye houses have now been on strike for the past 10 weeks. The Superintendent has refused to meet any committee, those composed of the textile union or that of the Central Labor Union, although the C.L.U. has made numerous attempts to do so, both by their Grievance committee and by enlisting the services of Business and Professional men. About three weeks ago a Federal Conciliator came to this town to try and adjust the differences. Up to the present time he has had no success. On the 13th inst. the Supt. opened these mills for those who would return under the old conditions. About 600 of 2200 employees, mostly girls, returned. Some trouble was caused by this action and the Chief Burgess C. W. Clement called for the aid of the State Constabulary. Since their arrival all has been quiet. There has been no member of the Textile Union Officers here in this city to help or give advice to these striking workers for the last three weeks. In the past week the various locals in this city has contributed to the Textile Workers in the neighborhood of $2,000. It would be a pleasure if you would kindly see if these strikers cannot receive at least some small support from the Textile Organization. Will give you a report in detail in a few days.312 -2- I have informed Organizer Leisenring that the above matter was one for the attention of your organization and that I would bring the matter to your attention with the request that you kindly communicate with him direct. Fraternally yours, Samu'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.313 E. October 29, 1919 Mr. Simon O'Donnell, President, Building Trades Council, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will find copy of a letter addressed to me by George A. McKinlock, dated October 21st. Upon its receipt I consulted with Secretary Spencer of the Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor as the enclosed letter deals with matters coming within the jurisdiction of that department. He asks and I am glad to comply with his request, that I should take the matter up direct with you instead of through his office. Of course, I appreciate the fact that the entire matter is one for local adjustment in Chicago but I realize the critical situation confronting the labor movement generally and I feel that I would be remiss to the obligations resting upon me if I did not express the earnest hope that they will be able to adjust the jurisdictional dispute between the local unions of the Electrical Workers and Elevator Constructors as dealt with in the enclosed letter. Trusting that I may hear from you in regard to the above, I am with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.314 COPY CENTRAL ELECTRIC COMPANY Chicago, October 21, 1919 Samuel Gompers Esq. President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir:- I have been following with more or less interest your course as head of the American Federation of Labor and have felt that your purposes were on the whole in the right direction. I have been subject to pressure in regard to my views on the rights and treatment of labor and the rights of capital. Not being a manufacturer and, therefore, not being a large employer of labor I am said to be ignorant of the problems because of inexperience. I can no longer be said to be without experience as I have been subject to considerable loss and damage by what is known in labor circles as jurisdictional disputes. The case in point is the McKinlock Building on the corner of Jackson Boulevard and South Wells Street in Chicago. The building is about completed but the elevator or life system cannot be completed because of a jurisdictional dispute between the Electrical Trades Union and the Elevator Constructors Union, both claiming the right to install the electrical signals. Representatives of each of these trades have stalled me along for over a year with the idea that the matter is to be settled definitely by your organization. A settlement was promised at your Atlantic City convention. During the building trades strike in Chicago, when the contractors locked out the carpenters, it was said that all jurisdictional disputes would be settled, that is, acting under the statements made by the representative of each trade that the dispute would be settled in a few months. I agreed to do nothing until a settlement was made. Now I am told there is no prospect of a settlement between these trades with the result that my tenants are refusing to pay the rent and other tenant prospects for vacancies are chilled by the fact that there is no elevator signal service. To whom shall I go if not to you and how can you reconcile the failure of your Federation to settle an internecine strike? Consider my helpless condition as a free American citizen and advice me what I should do under the circumstances. Yours truly, (Signed) Geo. A. McKinlock315 LFL. October 29,1919 Miss Marian Easley, 603 So. 27th Street, Omaha, Nebraska. Dear Madam:- In President Gompers' name, permit me to thank you for sending him the lines which you enclosed in your letter of recent date. He appreciates your kindness very greatly. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.316 LFL. October 29, 1919 Mr. Maurice J. Cassidy, Secretary, Building Trades Council of St.Louis and Vicinity, 2651 Locust Street, St.Louis, Missouri. Dear Sir:- Permit me to thank you in President Gompers'name for your letter of October 22nd and the clipping you enclosed entitled "Capital Should Deal with Union Agents, Taft Says." But for your courtesy in sending this clipping to him, it would have escaped his attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. [*317*] LFL. October 29th,1919 Mr. S. J. Konenkamp, Attorney-at-Law, Suite 110-155 North Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Mr. Konenkamp:- Congratulations upon your entering upon your new profession. My very best wishes are yours and I earnestly hope that you will be fully successful in all you undertake. It is gratifying to know that your heart is still in the fight with Labor. You will have many opportunities to be helpful and I am sure that you will let none of them pass. Thank you for what you say in regard to my work in the Presidential Industrial Conference. I wish you could have been here during the entire sessions. Hoping to hear from you occasionally, I am, Sincerely yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.318 LFL. October 29th, 1919 Mr. John Howard Deming, 6 Marin Street, Newport, Rhode Island. Dear Sir:- Your undated letter received and contents noted. You refer to the conferencation of the national and international unions and the railroad brotherhoods on December 13th with the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor and you express the hope that the Farmers' Organizations will be invited. You further state that you should like to be a representative from the State Grange of Rhode Island. In reply permit me to advise you that an invitation has been extended to the several farmers' organizations to appoint representatives to attend that conference. Whether the invitation will be accepted and if accepted you will be the appointee, is a matter, of course, for determination on the part of the organizations themselves. The undersigned would have no say-so whatever in the matter except to express the earnest hope which I have already conveyed to the Farmers' organizations that they will accept the invitation. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.319 LFL. October 29, 1919 Mr. John Moriarty, 127 Broadway, Waterbury, Connecticut. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 24th in which you enclose copy of a plan prepared by Mr. Leonard Matthews of St.Louis, Missouri for establishing harmonious relations between Capital and Labor. You are quite right in assuming that numbers of plans and suggestions have been and are constantly being made to President Gompers. He is very glad to receive them all and thanks you for writing. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.320 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. Charles Harkins, Verplanck, Westchester Co., N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 23rd addressed to Secretary Morrison has been referred to me for attention. You make application to receive a commission as volunteer organizer for the American Federation of Labor. In accordance with the established custom, if you will have an official recommendation forwarded to me from the Peekskill Trades and Labor Council, Robert Cross, Secretary, 660 Main Street, the matter of issuing you a commission will be given my attention. Please be advised that this is in accordance with the rule of this office in the issuance of commission where we have a Central Labor Union in existence. Thanking you for your interest in the matter of organization, and trusting to hear from you further, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.321 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. R. C. Sutton, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 520 Conti Street, New Orleans, LA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 17th received and contents noted. I am glad to know that there is a spirit of organization among the timber workers of your section. You bring to my attention the fact that there are between 600 and 1,000 men employed as watchmen by the various private detective agencies in your city, and you desire advice as to the procedure in the matter of organization. In reply I beg to state that these men in no sense of the word are eligible to receive a charter from the American Federation of Labor. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.322 VLY October 27,1919. Mr. Charles Iffland, Secretary, International Union of Bakery and Confectionery Workers of America, 212 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just closed its sessions at headquarters, the first regular meeting since the Atlantic City convention of the A. F. of L. I submitted to the consideration of my colleagues of the E. C. a letter addressed to me by Mr. Duffy, Secretary of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, in which he enclosed a letter addressed to him and signed by a committee in Chicago, in which certain charges are made against a Bakery and Confectionery Workers International union. Copies of Secretary Duffy's letter and the letter addressed to him are enclosed herein. Will you please advise me whether it is true as alleged in the enclosed letter that Americans by birth or naturalization have been or are deprived from membership in the Bakery and Confectionery Workers' International Union. I would appreciate it if you will let me hear from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.323 AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. Washington, D.C. May 29, 1919. Mr. Frank Duffy, General Secretary, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Mr. Duffy: This will acknowledge receipt of your letter of May 27th addressed to President Gompers enclosing communication from Chicago under date of May 26th in reference to to the Bakery and Confectionery Workers International Union in which you say that you desire same to be considered by the Executive Council. The matter has been placed on the schedule for the Executive Council meeting in Atlantic City, Saturday evening, June 7th. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.324 UNITED BROTHERHOOD OF CARPENTERS & JOINERS OF AMERICA. Carpenters' Building 222 East Michigan Street. Indianapolis May 27th-1919 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor A.F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am herewith enclosing you a communication received from Chicago, Illinois under date of May 26th in reference to the Bakery and Confectionery Workers' International Union for the reason that the signers of the document asked that the matter be dealt with by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor. With best wishes and kindest regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Frank Duffy, General Secretary.325 Chicago, Ill., May 26th, 1919. Mr. Frank Duffy, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your attention is respectfully called to enclosure herewith submitted and your cooperation is solicited with a view to the correction of a rapidly growing menace to the trades union movement as especially applied to the Bakery and Confectionery Workers. A western concern of monopolistic tendencies aims to control the bakery business by the method of baking bread in daylight and in full view of the purchasing public. The Baker's Union has seen fit to recognize this concern as against the old line bakers, largely due to the fact that the workmen are not employed between the hours of sunset and sunrise. The workmen interested are of alien birth or extraction largely of the Jewish,, Slavonic races and of the German and Austrian alien enemies, and in line with the characteristics of their origin they have taken it upon themselves to exclude AMERICANS. They are debarred from the right to work in bakeries with which the Bakery and Confectionery Workers' Union are in agreement, the Union declaring that it alone shall be the employment agency and that the workers must be employed only at the election of the Union. Is this a healthful condition in the trade union movement, and you are asked through the medium of this communication whether we are doing justice to our returning soldiers, sailors and marines who have fought the battles of the world for the past two years; and as you know a great many of these boys have learned the baking trade while in the service of their country and now on their return to America are unable to find employment because of the exclusive rules and un-American principles of the Bakery and Confectionery Workers' International Union. There are in Chicago and elsewhere a large number of returned soldiers and American citizens, some of whose names are herewith appended who are capable as tradesmen, and who are willing and anxious to join the Bakery and Confectionery Workers' International Union, but who are denied the right to admittance into the organization for the reason THAT THEY ARE AMERICANS. These men very properly take exception to a condition wherein the Constitution and Ritual of the International Union is written in German or other non-english languages; where the officers are selected because of their activities in alien fraternal organizations where the procedure is hostile to all American sentiment. These men feel that the Trade Unionists of the country should be advised of conditions which are believed to be inimical to the interests of the trade union movement. As American citizens we feel we are entitled to the protection of the American Federation of Labor. We feel that we are entitled to your cooperation regardless of your religious convictions or your ideas of nationality. We insist that our rights and privileges are your concern and we look to you for redress in what we326 - 2 - consider to be a peril to not only the trade union movement but to AMERICANISM as the rank and file of the workers of the country understand and recognize it. We ask that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor be appraised of the conditions we herewith set forth, and instructions issued to require the Bakery and Confectionery Workers' International Union to either admit American citizens to membership or that the charter of the International Union be revoked and an opportunity given American workers to institute a new union that will meet with the ideals and aspirations of American workers. We submit herewith copies of the Declaration of Principles and resolutions of the Bakery and Confectionery Workers' International Union which organization is working under a charter duly issued by the International body affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. We believe these documents are worthy of careful perusal and we ask you to study the same carefully and then assist in redressing an injury that has been done to true Americans and English speaking races who hope to find employment at the baking trade. Respectfully submitted, George Gould, Daniel E. Crisman, C. A. Paret, Wm. Robertson, Arthur Hackett, J. S. Gardner, A. J. Harris, Wells Baxtine, E. A. Link, Howard Love, Harry First, Wm. O'Leary, Committee.327 DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES And RESOLUTIONS Of The BAKERY And CONFECTIONERY WORKERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF AMERICA. Copied from the official book of that organization, containing the constitution and rules for local unions. This book is in the hands of every member of the union. DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES. Society at present is composed of classes whose interests are antagonistic to each other. On the one hand, we have the proprietary class, possessing almost all the soil, all houses, factories, means of transportation, machines, raw material and all necessities of life. In comparison to the entire people this class represents a small minority. On the other hand we have the workmen, possessing nothing but their intellectual and physical power with which to labor and which they must sell to the possessors of the [men as] of production in order to live. The workers represent the millions. The interests of the possessing class consist in buying the productive power of the laborer as cheap as possible, in order to produce as much as possible and to amass wealth. The few hundred thousand proprietors appropriate to themselves the larger part of the wealth produced by the workers. The laboring millions receive for the produce of their labor only so much as is necessary to live a life of misery and starvation. Every improvement of machinery, every new discovery of hitherto unknown forces of nature. the proprietary class appropriates to itself for the exclusive purpose of increasing its possessions; through this process human labor is more and more replaced by machinery. The workers having become superfluous, are compelled to sell their labor at any price in order to save themselves from starvation. The value of labor gradually decreases; the laboring people are being impoverished more and more; their consuming power is more and more lessened and the consequence is that the commodities produced remain upon the market without being bought by anyone; commercial stagnation sets in, production is decreased and even partly suspended- The "crisis" has arrived.328 - 2 - The proprietary class press into their service the powers of State, the police, Militia, Press and Pulpit to protect their possessions produced by others and to maintain the "sacredness" of property. While the millions of working people are left without the means of existence, without rights, unprotected, and betrayed and sold out to their enemies by the State, Press and by the Pulpit, the arms of the Police and Militia are directed against them. In consideration of these facts we declare: 1. That the laboring class must emancipate itself from all influences of its enemies, the proprietary class; that it must organize locally, nationally and internationally for the purpose of setting the power of organized labor against the power of organized capital. For this struggle an independent Labor Press is indispensable. 2. National and International Trade Unions are well fitted to exert a powerful influence upon production, prices, the hours of labor, regulation of apprenticeship and the support of their members in all the different phases of life. 3. The conflict through which they have naturally to go with the organized power of capitalism leads them to recognize that all Trade Unions must form one great powerful body; the solidarity of the interest of labor is proclaimed; the workers mutually assist each other. Soon the fact will be recognized that the entire system of production rests upon the shoulders of the laboring class, and if the workers only display their firm determination and exert their power, a new system, based upon justice, may be easily introduced. Arrayed against the power of capitalism and its millions stands the power of the laboring class, self-reliant and conscious that they possess the power with which to overwhelm their antagonists. 4 There is no power on earth large enough to resist the will of such a majority if it is enlightened in regard to its rights; it will accomplish its aims and objects irresistibly, Naturally, justice is upon its side. The earth, together with all its wealth belongs to mankind. The results and triumphs of civilization have been achieved through the course of thousands of year and with the assistance of all nations. The organized workers will come to carry into reality these principles, and they will establish a state of affairs under which everyone will enjoy the fruits of his labor.329 RESOLUTION ADOPTED BY THE 13th CONVENTION of the BAKERY AND CONFECTIONERY WORKERS' INTERNATIONAL UNION OF AMERICA. Whereas, A fierce and bitter struggle is continuously waged between the capitalist class and the working class the rich and the poor, the exploiters and the exploited; and Whereas, The delegates attending the Twelfth and Thirteenth Convention of the BAKERY AND CONFECTIONERY WORKERS' INTERNATIONAL UNION OF AMERICA, do recognize the existence of this class struggle and the injustice of the present system; and Whereas, It has repeatedly been proved that the unjust capitalistic system can only be overthrown by the working class through united action on the economic and political field; and Whereas, We recognize that only the emancipation of the working class from wage-slavery as advocated through Socialism will finally and forever remove the injustice under which we are forced to suffer today, therefore be it Resolved, That we, the delegates of this Twelfth and Thirteenth Convention of the B. & C. W.I.U. of A. recommend to the members of our organization to study carefully the Socialistic principles, and in order to aid them in this endeavor, we authorize the Editor of our official organ, "The Bakers' Journal. "to open its columns for the discussion of economic questions and from time to time publish articles on Socialism and other progressive ideas; and be it finally. Resolved, That we ask our members to ally themselves with the progressive forces on the political field in order to hasten the day when the Co-operative Commonwealth may be established.330 AS. October 27,1919. Mr. Edward Tegtmeyer, General Vice-President International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 608 South Dearborn St., Chicago, ILL. 23rd October H. L. Evans El Paso and vicinity El Paso Saml Gompers.331 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. Henry A. Leisenring, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 1019 Railroad Ave., Sunbury, PA. Dear Sir and Member: Your statement relative to the Textile Workers of Sunbury, Pennsylvania is duly noted and as this is a matter for the attention of the United Textile Workers of America, Mr. John Golden, President, 86 Bible House, New York City I am transmitting to him the information you furnish with a request that he take the matter up direct with you. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.332 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. O. H. McGinnis, Organizer American Federation of Labor, P.O.Box 384, Rome, GA. Dear Sir and Brother: In accordance with your favor of October 18th sample copies of the American Federationist will be mailed to the names you submit. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.333 AS. October 27,1919. Mr. Joseph W. Jones, Secretary-Treasurer Mississippi State Federation of Labor, Box 158, MERIDIAN, MISSISSIPPI. October 23rd J. R. Gray Columbus and vicinity. Columbus Saml Gompers.334 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. Ancil B. Weaver, Vice-President Carpenter's State Council of Michigan, 211 North 4th Street, Sturgis, MICH. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 24th received and contents noted. You say that you have three local unions already organized and you desire information as to whether or not you have authority to do this work. You failed to furnish me with the names of the organizations you have formed and it is suggested that you forward the application to this office when the matter will be given our careful consideration, and if the workers are not entitled to receive charters direct from the American Federation of Labor this office will forward them to the proper international unions. If it is your desire to act as organizer for the A. F. of L. for Sturgis it is suggested, in accordance with the established custom of the A. F. of L., that you secure an official recommendation from the Central Labor Union, Lee. R. Garrett, Secretary, 117 So. Munro Street, Sturgis, Michigan. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.335 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. Will T. Blake, Corresponding Secretary Trades and Labor Council, East Liverpool, OHIO. undated Frank Hull East Liverpool and vicinity. East Liverpool Saml Gompers.336 P.S. In accordance with the information you furnish Organizer George Kilmer is being dropped from our records.337 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. C. Edward Ossman, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 632 Edwards Avenue, Pottsville, PA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 25th received and contents noted. Permit me to thank you for your kind expression, and I beg to assure you that I shall continue to render every service I can to the movement. Asking you to write me again whenever anything of interest arises, I am, with best wishes Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.338 LAS:AS. October 27,1919. Mr. James Bates, Secretary Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers of America, Local 36 104 Labor Temple, Los Angeles, California. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 12th received in which you ask that a commission be granted to Brother Gilmore, who has transferred his membership from Taft, California to Los Angeles. I beg to advise you in reply that in accordance with the established custom of the American Federation of Labor it will be necessary for me to receive an official recommendation from the Los Angeles Central Labor Body, Secretary C. L. Myers, 202 Labor Temple. Kindly be advised that this is the course always pursued in issuing commissions where Central Labor Unions are in existence in affiliation with the A. F. of L. I might state, in this connection, that our records show that Mr. P. E. Gilmore performed excellent work while acting as volunteer organizer for Taft and I am sure if your local union will bring this 339 -2- matter to the attention of the Central Body that they will, no doubt, endorse him to receive a commission. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.340 E. Oct. 29, 1919. Mr. George A. McKinlock, President, Central Electric Company, 315-318-320 So. Wells St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 21 received and contents noted. Of course you understand that the American Federation of Labor in the case of jurisdictional controversy between affiliated organizations has no mandatory power but it does endeavor in every way within its power to be helpful in securing adjustments. Inasmuch as the matter with which your letter deals comes under the jurisdiction of the Building Trades Department of the A. F. of L. I have taken the matter up with the officers of that department here in Washington and the local branch of the Building Trades Department in Chicago, in the hope that a speedy adjustment may be reached. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.341 E. Oct. 29, 1919 Mr. Timothy Shen, Grand Chief, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, 101 "B" St. S.E., Washington D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- In conformity with the understanding reached at the conference held between the representatives of the four railroad Brotherhoods, the Railroad Shopmen's organizations and the officers of the American Federation of Labor on Saturday, October 25, and in compliance with the directions of the Executive Council, a call has been issued to the executives of the national and international trade unions to meet in Washington, D.C., December 13. Copy of the call is enclosed herein. The invitation to the several organizations of farmers will go forth in a day or so. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.342 E. Oct. 29, 1919 Mr. W. E. Lee, Grand Chief, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, 101 "B" St. S.E., Washington D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- In conformity with the understanding reached at the conference held between the representatives of the four Railroad Brotherhoods, the railroad shopmen's organizations and the officers of the American Federation of Labor on Saturday, October 25, and in compliance with the directions of the Executive Council, a call has been issued to the executives of the national and international trade unions to meet in Washington, D.C., December 13. Copy of the call is enclosed herein. The invitation to the several organizations of farmers will go forth in a day or so. Fraternally yours, Saml Gomplers. President, American Federation of Labor.343 E. Oct. 29, 1919 Mr. W. L. Sheppard, Grand Chief, Brotherhood of Railway Conductors of America, 101 B St. S.E., Washington D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- In conformity with the understanding reached at the conference held between the representatives of the four Railroad Brotherhoods, the railroad shopmen's organizations and the officers of the American Federation of Labor on Saturday, October 25, and in compliance with the directions of the Executive Council, a call has been issued to the executives of the national and international trade unions to meet in Washington, D.C., December 13. Copy of the call is enclosed herein. The invitation to the several organizations of farmers will go forth in a day or so. Fraternally yours, Saml Gomplers. President, American Federation of Labor.344 LFL. October 29,1919 Mr. J. H. Walker, Illinois Hotel, Springfield, Illinois. Dear Sir:- President Gompers asks me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 24th and to thank you for writing him. You have, of course, seen his reply to the telegram sent to him by the Illinois State Federation of Labor. He appreciates all that you have done and asks that you pardon him for not writing you direct. Owing to the many conferences, committees, etc. in connection with the several international meetings now being held in this city he has little opportunity, just at present, to devote to his correspondence. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.345 E. Oct. 29, 1919 Mr. Warren S. Stone, Grand Chief, Brotherhood Locomotive Engineers, 101 "B" St. S.E., Washington D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- In conformity with the understanding reached at the conference held between the representatives of the four Railroad Brotherhoods, the Railroad Shopmen's organizations and the officers of the American Federation of Labor on Saturday, October 25, and in compliance with the directions of the Executive Council, a call has been issued to the executives of the national and international trade unions to meet in Washington, D.C., December 13. Copy of the call is enclosed herein. The invitation to the several organizations of farmers will go forth in a day or so. Fraternally yours, Saml Gomplers. President, American Federation of Labor.346347 LL October 28, 1919. Mr. Henry Streifler, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 36 Northumberland Ave., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 27th received and contents noted. You give report on the situation affecting the members of Warehouse Employes' Union No. 15480, your city, and state that you have arranged to meet Secretary Mitchell of this local and secure from him an agreement upon which basis their strike was settled. I will be pleased to receive this agreement and appreciate very much the attention you have given this local. With kind regards and thanking you for your attention to this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.348 LL October 28, 1919. Mr. A. G. Eltonhead, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 1117 Cherry St., Evansville, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 25th received and contents noted. You enclose copy of agreement of the Shippers and Packers Local No. 16328, your city, but you state you do not think it will be signed up as it now stands; that the firms have been visited and they have elected a committee of five to settle with the local and as soon as they have signed agreement, you will forward one to this office. I thank you very much for this information and will appreciate it if you will send copy of this agreement to this office and advise me what was the increase in wages secured. I note your statement that Mr. Henry Riecken is the new Financial Secretary and am placing his name on the list to receive monthly reports. You ask if a new bond must be secured for this new Financial Secretary: I beg to advise that the bond of the former Financial Secretary, Mr. Wingerter, expired October 8, 1919, and it will be necessary that bond be renewed in the name of the new Financial Secretary, Henry Riecken. Enclosed please find the necessary bond blank which should be filled out with Mr. Riecken's name and the proper amount to cover cost of this bond forwarded to this office. With kind regards and thanking you for the attention you have given this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.349 LL October 28, 1919. Mr. J. E. Wigger, Secretary, Tin, Steel, Iron & Granite Ware Workers No. 10943, 1719 D Street, Granite City, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 25th received, in which you enclose copy of your signed agreement with the National Enameling and Stamping Company, which is to run from September 1, 1919 to August 31, 1920. I thank you very much for sending me this copy and am very glad to note that your local was successful in securing same. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.350 LL October 28, 1919. Mr. H. W. Peters, Secretary, Machinists Lodge 1251, International Association of Machinists, P. O. Box 195, Lenoir City, Tenn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 24th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for reply. I note that you say regarding the situation affecting the members of Federal Labor Union No. 16692. I also note what you say regarding Organizer Wolfe. Let me say, in reply, that I am again taking the matter up with Organizer Wolfe, asking that he see the manager of the Lenoir Car Works and advise me regarding the situation. I appreciate very much the attention you have given this matter and trust a satisfactory settlement of this controversy will soon be brought about. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.351 LL October 28, 1919. Mr. W. E. Wolfe, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 701 Chicamauga Ave., Knoxville, Tenn. Dear Sir and Brother: You will please find enclosed herewith copy of communication which I received from Secretary Peters, of the Machinist Lodge 1251, International Association of Machinists, Lenoir City, in answer to the letter I wrote him on October 22nd at your suggestion. You will note Secretary Peters' statement that he talked to the manager of the Lenoir Car Works and the manager informed him that there had not been a representative to see him in regard to the demands of this local. Further, that he will be glad to talk with you at any time regarding this matter. There is evidently some misunderstanding in regard to the situation, in view of the statement contained in your letter of October 18th, relating to the refusal of the manager of the Lenoir Car Works to confer with you in regard to Federal Labor Union No. 16692. As suggested by Secretary Peters, I would request that you again take this matter up with Local 16692. If you are unable to give the matter attention, please advise me. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.352 COPY INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS. Lenoir Lodge No. 1251. Lenoir City, Tenn. Oct. 24, 1919. Mr. Frank Morrison, Sec., American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In reply to your letter of October 22nd, in regard to the situation affecting the Federal Labor Union No. 16692 of Lenoir City, Tenn. I wish to state that this organization is not on a strike and never was; you certainly have been misinformed. I understand that this organization has made a demand for an increase in wages, which has not been granted. At the request of Mr. W. K. Wolfe of Knoxville, I talked to the manager of Lenoir Car Works about this increase for the laborers and he (Mr. Z. B. Wilson) informed me that there had'nt been a representative to see him in regard to this demand except 2 of the laborers which he talked with only a short time. His argument was that he did'nt see any use in such an organization anyway; that he never heard of the laborers being organized anywhere and furthermore, that he was paying standard wages for laborers in this locality and even more than they were paying on the railroads and in the shops. I took this question up with Mr. Wilson in a personal way and did the best I could to get him to do something for them. He informed me that he never heard of such a man as Mr. Wolfe and would be glad to talk with him at any time. So I would suggest if you will pardon me for such; that you instruct Mr. W. K. Wolfe of 01 Chicamauga Ave., Knoxville, Tenn., to wait upon Mr. Wilson in regard to this matter, as he is in a better position to deal with this question than I. What I have done is only in a personal way. But I will give you the positive assurance that we will assist Federal Labor Union No. 16692 in any way possible. However, we have (this District of) the railway department of the American Federation of Labor to deal with when it comes to official dealings.353 -2- All the other trades of this city have a contract with this company and we will have to say frankly that we have so far found Mr. Z. B. Wilson exceedingly fair to organized labor. Hoping I have given you the information desired, Fraternally yours, (Signed) H. W. PETERS.354 LL October 28, 1919. Mr. L. M. Andler, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 4411 Wood St., Houston, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 24th received and contents noted. I am very glad to note that Domestic Workers' Locals Nos. 16597 and 16636 were successful in securing an increase in wages and both locals are satisfied for the present. I appreciate very much the interest you have given to these locals and trust that you will give them your advice and counsel any time they need same regarding agreements. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.355 LL October 28, 1919. Mr. M. E. Alaris, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 102 Suzanne St., Montreal, Quebec. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 25th received and contents noted. I note the report of the negotiation committee and have carefully read same. I am very gratified to note that you were successful in preventing a strike and bringing about a satisfactory agreement with the company. I would be pleased to receive a copy of the agreement this local secured from the company. With kind regards and thanking you for the attention you have given this local, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.356 EP October 29, 1919 Mr. Louis Feringa, Secretary, Grand Rapids Printing Pressmen's Union, Local No. 13, 1123 Fremont Ave., N.W., Grand Rapids, Mich. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your letter of October 27. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers357 EP October 29, 1919. Mr. C. L. Myers, Secretary-Treasurer, Central Labor Council, Room 202, Labor Temple, Los Angeles, Calif. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers358 EP October 29, 1919. Mr. J. Gribben, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Labor Temple, 31st St. & Huntington Ave., Newport News, Va. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your letter of October 24. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers359 EP October 29, 1919. Mr. P. H. Peterson, Secretary, Vallejo Central labor Council, Box No. 518, Vallego, Calif. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers360 EP October 29, 1919. Mr. F. A. Canfield, President, Cedar Rapids Federation of Labor, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and he Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers361 EP October 26, 1919 Mr. Horace D. Wilkinson, Acting Secy., Central Labor Union, 232 N. 9th St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your telegram. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers362 EP October 29, 1919. Mr. T. K. Farleigh, Sec[t]y-Treas., Mr. J. E. Clements, President, The Virginia District Lodge, I.A. of M., 1007 Prentis Ave., Portsmouth, Va. Dear Sirs:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your letter of October 25. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions of the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers363 Washington, D.C., October 29, 1919. John L. Lewis, Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. This afternoon Secretary Baker, Secretary Daniels and Secretary Lane invited me to a conference with them and the contemplated coal strike was discussed with all the serious consequences which such a strike will entail. They advised as that Secretary Radfield and Secretary Wilson agree with their view that something effective should be done to prevent the strike occuring. They added that they feel assured that if the strike order is postponed a conference can be arranged between the representatives of the United Mine Workers of America and the operators and a strong effort made to bring about an adjustment of the existing differences, provided, of course, that the strike be postponed pending the conference. With the definite instructions of the miners' convention I know the difficulty confronting you and the responsibility of the action and yet with all the possibilities of which you are fully conscious I urge that the situation be courageously faced and an endeavor made by all means to avert the strike if possible, or at least postpone it pending the opportunity for negotiating an agreement. Samuel Gompers. Charge A.F. of L. October 29, 1919 S. M. Lindsay, 54 and 56 West Fortieth Street, New York City. Regret that my engagements are such as prevent my accepting invitation for Monday evening, November tenth. Suggest you invite [Frayne] [* Woll *] [* or Frayne *] SAMUEL GOMPERS. Collect.364 October 29, 1919 Lyman P. Powell, Review of Reviews Company, 30 Irving Place, New York City. Letter and telegram received. Upon advice of friends, regret to say that it is impossible to comply your request. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Collect.365 VLV October 29, 1919. Mr. H.B. Butler, General Secretary, Organizing Committee, International Labor Conference, Navy Bldg., 19th & B Sts., Washington, D.C. Dear Mr. Butler: Enclosed you will please find a copy of a letter addressed to me by the parties signatory thereto, protesting against the ad- mission of Mr. Uhe [?]Masumoto as a delegate most representative of the wage workers of Japan, as part of the delegation of the Japanese government to the International Labor Conference convoked to meet this date, October 29, 1919 The protest was addressed to me not only as President of the AmericanFederation of Labor, but evidently under the impression that I was still president of the International Labor [?] which met in Paris, or in some way believing that I have official authority to present the protest. The signers to the protest are personally unknown to me, but they sign themselves as officers of bona fide organizations of workers and I know Mr. Suzuki quite well and have [?] to his veracity, honor and honesty of purpose. You will recall that the original letter was read to the members of the organizing committee at its session yesterday October 28th and I was advised that if the letter of transmission was ad- dressed to you, you would see to it that the protest was placed in the hands of the committee which is to examine the credentials of the delegates. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*366*] F. Oct. 29, 1919. DOCUMENT NO. 75 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES. AS you know, the International Federation of Trade Unions Conference was to take place on Tuesday, October 27. The only persons present were Mr. Oudegeest of Holland and the undersigned. As a consequence the meeting was postponed and was held in the office of the American Federation of Labor Building at nine o'clock this Wednesday, evening and lasted until 11:45. On behalf of the American Federation of Labor, Vice-President Woll, Secretary Morrison and the undersigned were in attendance, Representatives from many countries were present. It is clear to the minds of my associates and myself that the conference being made up of representatives of the trade union movements of the several countries, that they are also the labor representatives of its various countries represented in the International Labor Conference being held here in Washington now under the terms of the Treaty of Peace, that the conference of the International Federation of Trade Unions delsgates will be intermittent and covering a period of one or two months so long as the labor conference [?] [?] Treaty shall be in session. It is, therefore, deemed inadvisable to ask all of the members of the E. C. to come to Washington for [?] so long period of time, although any member of the E. C. who can come to Washington without any great inconvenience, could be and would be a participant in the conference when they come here during the time the conferences are in session. I trust that this suggestion will meet with the approval of the Executive Council as it is the joint opinion of Messrs. Morrison, Woll and myself. Fraternally ours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*367*] E. Oct. 29, 1919. DOCUMENT NO. 73 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: Inasmuch as the United States has not ratified the Peace Treaty it is not within the power of the President to appoint either its government officials or to appoint the representatives of employers, or the representatives of the workers, as delegates to the International Labor Conference now in session in Washington under the terms of the Peace Treaty of Versailles. The conference in Washington however, adopted a resolution inviting a representative of the American Federation of Labor to sit in with the delegates to that conference. The Executive Council at its recent meeting declared that if the President should ask for the appointment of a man to represent the workers as a delegate to the conference, that Samuel Gompers accept the appointment if it should be possible for him to accept, or if he should be unable to accept and perform the duties incident thereto, that James Duncan, First Vice-President, should accept. At a conference held between Secretary Morrison, Vice-President Woll and the undersigned, it was decided that President Gompers should accept the invitation as above stated. It is hoped that the action of the above named of the Executive Council be approved by the entire Executive Council. Please respond to this matter by wire and oblige. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.368 Washington, D. C., October 30, 1919 S. M. Lindsay, 501 West 120th Street, New York, N.Y. Regret that my engagements are such as prevent my accepting invitation for Monday evening, November tenth. Suggest you invite Woll or Frayne. SAMUEL GOMPERS. COLLECT.[*369*] LAS:AS. October 29, 1919. Mr. E.C. Davison, Grand Secretary Treasurer International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 27th addressed to Secretary Morrison has been referred to me for attention. You state you are in receipt of a letter from Machinists Lodge #737 of Rochester, N.Y. requesting that a commission be issued to Brother S. Carroll. Kindly furnish me with Brother Carroll's address and whether it is the wish of your organization that a commission be issued for Rochester or for the United States of America. As soon as I receive the above information the matter will be given immediate attention. Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*370*] LAS:AS. October 29, 1919. Mr. G.H. Hardy, Organiser American Federation of Labor, 288 - 22nd Ave., East, Vancouver, B.C. Canada. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 18th received and contents noted. I have read with a great deal of interest your lengthy communication and want to thank you for the information it contains. You ask that an American Federation of Labor organizer be appointed to take up the work in your vicinity. The American Federation of Labor is not at this time in a position to appoint any additional organizers, but we have at this time, as you probably know, working in Vancouver Organizer A. Farmilo, St. Regis Hotel, and I am sure he will be glad to render the movement any assistance possible and it is suggested, if you have not already done so, you arrange to have a conference with organizer Farmilo. Asking you to communicate with me whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.371 LAS:AS. October 29, 1919. Mr. John C. Mayes, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 28 Bishop Block, Vincennes, INDIANA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 25th received and contents noted. Since we are officially advised by the Central Labor Union that you had moved from Vincennes, and as it is your wish that commission as volunteer organizer be re-issued you, may I suggest that you bring the matter officially to the attention of the Central Labor Union and have them forward me a communication that will be satisfactory to renew your commission? Trusting you will comply with the above request, I am Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*372*] [LAS:AS.] October 29,1919. Mr. Ben F. McCulley, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Blackwell, OKLA. Dear Sir and Brother: You state that the glass workers of your city desire but you fail to advise me of the class of work performed by As you probably know, there are flint glass worker glass workers and glass bottle blowers as well as glass an Kindly forward me more definite information and I shall be write you further. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Lab[*373*] LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. William Jones, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Sweetwater, TEXAS. Dear Sir and Brother: Your interesting favors of October 22nd and 25th received and read with interest. You state that the following crafts can be organized in your city, Carpenters, Painters, Plumbers, Restaurant Employes, Retail Clerks and Common Laborers. The Common Laborers, if they are not employed on building or street work, can receive a charter direct from the American Federation of Labor and I am enclosing herein a blank application and memorandum which will give you full information. I am communicating with the international officers of the above organizations as follows: United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Frank Duffy, Secretary, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Secretary-Treasurer J. C. Skemp, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiiana,[*374*] -2- United Association of Plumbers and Steam Fitters of the United States and Canada, Thomas E. Burke, Secretary- Treasurer, 411 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill., Hotel and Restaurant Employes' International Alliance and Bartenders' International League of America, Secretary-Treasurer, Jere L. Sullivan, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio, Retail Clerks' International Protective Association, Secretary- Treasurer H. J. Conway, Look Drawer 248, Lafayette, Indiana, I have pointed out to the above officers the necessity of organization in Sweetwater and have asked them, if possible, to send a representative and if this be not practical at this time to forward you full information together with application blanks and literature. I trust that you will continue to render every service to the American Federation of Labor, and it is to be hoped in the near future that the A. F. of L. will be in a position to send one of its organizers to Sweetwater to take up the work. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.375 LAS:AS. October 29, 1919. Mr. Thomas Sweeney, Secretary Journeymen Tailors' Union of America, Cor. East 67th St. & Stony Island Ave., Chicago, ILLINOIS. Dear Sir and Brother: This office has had considerable correspondence relative to A.S. Gabriel of Greenville, S.C. relative to his eligibility to hold a volunteer organizer's commission from the American Federation of Labor. Brother Gabriel was recommended by the Greenville Trades and Labor Council on September 16th, 1916, and has held a District Organizer's Commission for the above city since that date. I am just in receipt of a communication from the Trades and Labor Council bearing upon the matter and I would ask that you advise me whether Brother Gabriel is a member of the Tailors' Union of Greenville. Thank you for an early reply, I am, with best wishes Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.376 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. Otto Wechselbergar, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 618 Gray Street, Joplin, MO. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 24th received and contents noted. We have received a letter from the Joplin Central Labor Union to the effect that they made an error in submitting your name to this office to receive a volunteer organizer's commission. The commission has been corrected and you will find same enclosed herein. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Encl.377 LAS:AS. October 29, 1919. Mr. John J. Coyne, Organiser American Federation of Labor, 202 Green Street, Manchester, N.H. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 27th received and contents noted. I am pleased to learn that you have organised a local union of electricians in Concord. You state that you have been asked to speak at a church forum meeting and you would appreciate any suggestions on the subject. I am sending you several leaflets issued by the A. F. of L. and particularly the pamphlet entitled "Open Letter to Ministers of the Gospel", which I am sure will give you many valuable points upon which to base your address. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, [Samuel Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.378 AS. October 29,1919. Mr. Louis Feringa, Secretary Grand Rapids Trade and Labor Council, 1123 Fremont Ave., Grand Rapids, MICH. October 27th A. P. Schneider Grand Rapids and vicinity. Grand Rapids Saml Gompers.379 LFL. October 30th, 1919 Mr. James Wynn, 2614 Cathedral Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 26th received and contents noted. You request printed matter published by this office which would be helpful to you in your study of labor problems. Enclosed you will please find list of pamphlets published by this office. If you will indicate those covering the subject in which you are particularly interested, your order will be given prompt attention. In the meantime I am sending you two of the pamphlets that I am sure will be of special interest to you. They are: The American Labor Movement, Its Makeup, Achievements, and Aspirations, by Samuel Gompers. Eight Hours-The Workers and Eight Hour Work-Day and the Shorter Workday-- Its Philosophy, By Samuel Gompers The amount you enclose (twelve cents) covers the cost of these two pamphlets. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, [Samuel Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.380 LFL. October 30, 1919 Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 1416 Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Frayne:- Enclosed you will please find letter addressed to President Gompers by Mr. Matthew Worden, 16 North Bleeker Street, Mount Vernon, New York who says that he is a terminal gateman on the New York Central Railroad. You will also find enclosed the supplement No. 8 to General Order No. 27 of the United States Railroad Administration. It has been suggested to Mr. Worden that he get in touch with you and that you might be able to be of some assistance to him. I am sending you theoriginal letter and when it has served your purpose, please return it for our files. Very truly yours, Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure.381 LFL. October 30, 1919 Mr. Matthew Worden, 18 North Bleeker Street, Mount Vernon, New York. Dear Sir:- Your letter of recent date addressed to President Gompers has been received and contents noted. You write regarding conditions in the New York Central Company. Permit me in reply to advise you that I have referred your letter to the official representative of the American Federation of Labor in New York City, Mr. Hugh Frayne, 1416 Broadway. Let me suggest that you get in touch with Mr. Frayne who will be glad to give you any assistance within his power. Very truly yours, [R. Lee Guard] Secretary to President Gompers.382 1FL. October 30, 1919 Mr. Frank Rellpath, District Representative, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers of America, McAlester, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of the 37th instant received and contents noted. Your letter deals with jurisdictional controversy between your organization and the Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes in McAlester. Let me suggest in reply that you refer the matter to the executive officers of your international organization. This is the course always pursued in matters such as you present. then if it is deemed advisable by your international organization, the matter should be presented to this office. You can well appreciate what it would mean if the federation undertook to carry on correspondence with every one of its 1,292 local unions not to speak of the 34,000 local unions of international and national unions. Hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, and with best regards, I am, Fraternally yours, [Samuel Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.383 LFL. October 30,1919 Mr. P. C. Carlisle, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 220 Arlington Place, Norfolk, Virginia. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to thank you for your letter of October 28th. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions, of the railroad brotherhoods and the Farmers' Organizations for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation, and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally, but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.384 LFL. October 30th, 1919 Mr. Daniel Henderson, McClure's Magazine, 35 West 44th Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Henderson:- Thank you for your kindness in bringing to my attention the article by Mr. Charles Hanson Towne, in which work you co operated, and which was published in the October number of the "Land Mark" and which will be concluded in the November number. I shall certainly get copy of both issues. I am so frightfully driven these days that I have to pass the magazines by with a glance and unless someone especially interested brings a particular article or issue of a magazine to my attention it is apt to escape me. Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.385 LFL. October 30, 1919 THE LAND MARK, Lenox House, Howard Street, Strand, London, England. Gentlemen:- Kindly send the undersigned the October and November issues of the Land Mark. Please also submit bill and remittance will be forwarded promptly. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.386 LFL. October 30, 1919 Mr. E. T. Harvey, Publishing Director, The National Security League, Inc., 19 West 44th Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 29th received and contents noted. In reply, permit me to advise you that you are at liberty to use the statement on Universal Military Training as an expression of Mr. Gompers' present view on the subject. President Gompers has had no occasion to change his views since that statement was made in Laredo, caopy of the transcript of which he sent to you in a recent letter. Not only does the statement express his views but it reflects the position of the American Federation of Labor. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.387 LFL. October 30, 1919 Mr. W. F. Lawrence, Berwyn, Maryland. Dear Sir:- Replying to your letter of October 27th addressed to President Gompers, permit to call your attention to the enclosed address delivered by President Gompers and approved by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor and afterwards approved by the convention of the A. F. of L. President Gompers would write you personally but for the fact that his time is so engrossed with the International Labor Labor Conference and the International Federation of Trade Unions now in session in this city. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure.388 LFL. October 30, 1919 Miss Julia Ackley Tilden, 1827 Washington Avenue, Bronx, New York City. My dear Madam:- Your letter of October 21st received and contents noted. President Gompers asked me to say to you in acknowledging receipt of your letter that he is so very crowded with pressing and important matters in connection with the various international conferences being held in this city that he is not able to at present give personal attention to your letter. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.389 LFL. October 29,1919 Mr. F. H. Kittredge, Secretary, The Motion Picture Machine Operators' Protective Union, Local No. 224, Gayety Threatre Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Thank you for your cordial invitation to attend the Eighth Annual Ball of the Motion Picture Machine Operators'Protective Union, Local No. 224, on Friday, October the thirty-first, Masonic Temple, Washington, D. C. I beg to assure you of my appreciation of your invitation but I find that my engagements are such that they will not permit my accepting. Permit me to express the hope that your entertainment will be enjoyable and agreeable in every way. Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.390 LFL. October 29th, 1919 Miss Rose Kinne, State Organizer, Intl. Woman's Union Label League,#372 Labor Temple, 113 1/2 First Street, Yakima, Washington. Dear Madam:- President Gompers received your letter of October 18th but he has been and is so crowded with work in connection with the several international congresses and conferences being held in this city as to leave him little opportunity to devote to his personal correspondence. He was very glad to receive your letter and the information that you give and he hopes that you will write to him again whenever you feel that there are matters which you deem necessary to bring to his attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.391 LFL. October 29,1919 Mr. Martin Joyce, Secretary-Treasurer, Massachusetts State Branch 214-215 Kimball Building, 18 Tremont Street, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 27th received and contents noted. You suggest the advisability of having the representatives from the various state organizations of labor participate in the conference of December 13th. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting took the entire subject under consideration but decided that the invitation should be sent only to the executive officers of the national and international unions. The call for the conference is issued jointly by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor and the four railroad brotherhoods. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.392 LFL. October 29th, 1919 Mr. J. H. Coleman, Business Agent, Division No. 618, Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America, 95 Fountain Street, Providence, Rhode Island. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 24th, 1919 and to thank you for bringing to his attention the editorial clipping from the Providence Journal. The editorial is in line with the editorials from a number of other papers. President Gompers does not, at this time, consider that it would be practicable or helpful to make a reply. Thank you for your offer and for your letter, I am, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.393 EMD. October 27, 1919. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Adrian Vanderpoel is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Gardeners and Florists Union #17117, Morton Grove, Illinois. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.394 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Miss Mamie Steele, Secretary Railroad Coach and Station Cleaners #16586, 2740 - 4th Avenue, So., Minneapolis, MINN. Dear Madam: Your favor of the 21st instant received and contents noted. I am requesting Organizer J. E. Spielman, 235 South Fifth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota to visit your meeting on November 5th and endeavor to straighten out the entire controversy relative to Mrs. Hedwig Boldt. You will find Brother Spielman a man of a great deal of experience and I trust that his visit to your organization will result in clarifying the matter. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.395 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. J. E. Spielman, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 225 South Fifth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find herein copy of a communication received from Mrs. Hedwig Boldt of Railroad Coach and Station Cleaners # 16586, Minneapolis, Minnesota, being a complaint against the above organization, also a communication received from Secretary Steele, 2740 Fourth Avenue, South,of the same organization. Since this matter is to be considered by the union on November 5th may I request you as a representative of the A. F. of L. for Minneapolis to arrange to be at the meeting and endeavor to straighten out the entire matter to the satisfaction of all. Thank you in advance for compliance with this request. I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enc. 2396 VLY October 28,1919. Mr. Anthony McAndrew, President Tobacco Workers International Union, 50-51 Iroquois Life Building, Louisville, Kentucky. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of October 11th, enclosed you will please find a copy of a letter which I have just received from Mr. William L. Hutcheson, President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. You will also find enclosed a copy of a letter which I have written to Mr. Cosgrove. I suggest that you, Mr. Brady and Mr. Cosgrove should confer either in person or by correspondence for the purpose of making the necessary arrangements for the trip to Porto Rico and to Santo Domingo, as the Executive Council decided that the American Federation of Labor committee should also visit Santo Domingo for the purpose of investigating the conditions on that island. As soon as it is definitely determined upon the time of starting on the trip, please advise me as I desire to notify the representatives of the American Federation of Labor in Porto Rico, Organizer Santiago Iglesias. Boping to receive your early reply and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.397 VLY October 28,1919. Mr. John T. Cosgrove, First Vice-President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copies of the following correspondence: October 11, letter from me addressed to President Hutcheson. October 24, Copy of President Hutcheson's reply. October 27, letter which I addressed to the two representatives of the American Federation of Labor, Mr. McAndrew of the Tobacco Workers and Mr. Peter J. Brady of New York City. I should be very glad indeed if you, Mr. McAndrew and Mr. Brady can make satisfactory arrangements for undertaking the trip to Porto Rico, and I trust that you will get in communication with them at once and that all three of you will advise me as to what is done . As you will note in my letter to Mr. McAndrew and Mr. Brady the Executive Council decided that the A. F. of L. committee should also visit Santo Domingo and make an investigation of conditions there. The organizer of the Santo Domingan Federation of Labor is now in this city, Mr. J. E. Kunhardt, and I have had a conference with him and expect to have another. I notified him that the A. F. of L. committee would shortly visit Porto Rico and that the trip would include a visit to Santo Domingo. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you in connection with the above, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures398 VLY October 11,1919. COPY Mr. Wm. L. Hutcheson, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: The Atlantic City convention of the AmericanFederation of Labor authorized me to appoint a committee of three to visit Porto Rico and make an investigation of labor conditions there, with particular reference to the strike of the cigarmakers. I appointed Messrs. G. W. Perkins, A. McAndrews and Peter J. Brady. The cigar makers' strike ended just about the time that it was contemplated the committee should undertake the trip. Mr. Perkins finds that he is unable to make the trip. The general subject matter was discussed yesterday during the meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor. Vice-President Duffy stated that you had appointed Mr. John T. Cosgrove, first general vice president of the Carpenters, union, to visit Porto Rico to make an investigation of conditions as related to the carpenters organizations of the Island. The Executive Council, including the undersigned, expressed the opinion that it would be advantageous and helpful if Mr. Cosgrove would make the trip in company with the committee of the A. F. of L. It was also decided that the A. F. of L. Committee should visit Santo Domingo and investigate conditions there. If the proposition commends itself to you favorably, I would appreciate it if you would so advise me at your early convenience and also if you would inform me just when Mr. Cosgrove would be approximately ready to undertake the trip. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, (signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS. President, American Federation of Labor.399 VLY October 28,1919. Mr. Peter J. Brady, Member, Photo Engravers' Union of North America, 812 Municipal Bldg., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of October 11th, you will please find enclosed a copy of a letter which I have just received from Mr. William L. Hutcheson, President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. You will also find enclosed copy of a letter which I have written to Mr. Cosgrove. I suggest that you, Mr. McAndrew and Mr. Cosgrove should confer either in person or by correspondence for the purpose of making the necessary arrangements for the trip to Porto Rico and to Santo Domingo, as the Executive Council decided that the American Federation of Labor Committee should also visit Santo Domingo for the purpose of investigating the conditions of that island. As soon as it is definitely determines upon the time of starting on the trip, please advise me as I desire to notify the representative of the American Federation of Labor in Porto Rico, Organizer Santiago Iglesias. Hoping to receive your early reply and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.UNITED BROTHERHOOD OF CARPENTERS AND JOINERS OF AMERICA. OCTOBER 24,1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your communication of the 11th instant has been called to my attention upon returning to this Office. I note that you state that you have appointed a committee a committee to visit Porto Rico and make an investigation of the labor conditions there, as per the action of the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor, and that said committee consists of Messrs. G. W. Perkins, A. McAndrews and Peter J. Brady. I also note your statement that due to circumstances in the Organization of Cigar Makers that Brother Perkins is unable to make the trip. I have further noted your remarks to the effect that during the discussion of the subject matter the Executive Council felt or expressed the opinion that it would be advantageous and helpful if Vice-President Cosgrove of our Brotherhood could make the trip in company with the committee. The undersigned sometime ago instructed Vice-President Cosgrove to visit Porto Rico to investigate the conditions as affecting our membership and men of our craft but due to circumstances he has been unable up to this time to arrange for the trip. Just how soon he will be able to do so I am not in a position at this time to state. I am inclined to the thought as given expression to by yourself and the Executive Council that it would be helpful and advantageous for the committee that you have appointed to make the visit to the Island, and at the same time arrange to do so with Mr. Cosgrove. Unless there is a definite date for the committee to make the trip it would no doubt be advisable for them to confer with Mr. Cosgrove in order to make arrangements so that they can accompany one another. Fraternally yours, (signed) WM. L. HUTCHESON GENERAL PRESIDENT.400 VLY October 28,1919. Mr. William L. Hutcheson, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 24th received just after I had sent my telegram to you regarding Mr. Cosgrove. I am glad to receive the information you give. Immediately upon receipt of your letter I wrote to Mr. Cosgrove and also to Mr. Brady and Mr. McAndrew, and I hope that they may make mutually satisfactory arrangements whereby they can undertake the trip to Porto Rico at an early date. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you when convenienc, I am Fraternally yours Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.401 October 30, 1919 Mr. James P. Noonan Room Four Hundred Six Reisch Building Springfield Illinois In your recent letter you suggest that the conference between the Electrical Workers and the Engineers with the special committee of five appointed under the authority of the Atlantic City convention should be held late in November or early in December at the convenience of the several parties concerned. President Snellings informs me he will be in Washington next week and would very much like if possible that the conference be held at that time. Please wire me immediately if you can be here any time next week and if so when. SAMUEL GOMPERS Chg. American Federation of Labor. Washington, D. C., October 30th, 1919 J. B. Dale, Labor Temple, Los Angeles, California. I am deeply shocked with the sad news that you give in your telegram. I made repeated inquiries regarding Mr. Murray but no one seemed to know his condition. I shall miss him and his work. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L.[*402*] COPY - VLY Tokyo, Japan, October 4, 1919. Samuel Gompers, Esq. President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Gompers. Since I had the pleasure of meeting you in Atlantic City during June of this year the whole world has undergone notable changes. I left Japan in December and returned in July, and it is remarkable to note the changes which Japanese society has undergone during those seven months. It is unprecedented in the whole history of this country. I am happy to be able to say to you that in Japan the world of laborhas been much stimulated by these world movements. Unfortunately, I am also obliged to say that our bureaucratic government and capitalistic classes, startled by these sudden changes, have had resources to reactionary measures in order to suppress the awakening of labor. This is especially noticeable in the pressure that is exerted through the administration of certain police regulations, making it not only exceedingly difficult to conduct formally and openly meetings of laborers, but also adding greatly to the hindrances in the carrying out of such strikes as are regularly recognized in Europe and America. In additional there is constant interference with the regular programs of incipient labor organizations and up to the present at least strict refusal upon the part of the Government to recognize the legality of the labor unions. The policy for which our Government stands is one that savours of an ancient paternalism, advocating as it does cooperation between the laborers and managers of each individual factory, mine, etc. The present appeal to you is based on the fact that in selecting the labor delegate to the first International labor Conference our Government has trampled indiscriminately upon the spirit of international labor legislation. This statement I am prepared to substantiate in what follows. The manner in which the Government arranged the election of the labor delegates to the recent conference held in Tokyo is recognized by all impartial critics as being exceedingly irregular. According to Article 3 of the convention draft of the International Labor Legislation, the labor delegate is to be chosen in agreement with the industrial organizations, if such organizations exist, which are most representative of the employes or working people. That the action of the Government in arranging the election as well as the actual procedure of the conference itself were in direct opposition to the letter and spirit of the article, I leave you to judge from the following facts.[*403*] -2- Samuel Gompers October 4, 1919. Through official arrangement it was agreed that each prefecture having under 50,000 factory and mine laborers should have one delegate, each prefecture having between 50,000 and 100,000 should have two delegates, and such prefectures as contained over 100,000 laborers should have three delegates each. In addition the Government factories, such as for example the great arsenals, were granted fifteen delegates, and the five labor organizations of the country one delegate each. It was the understanding that from these one man was to be elected as labor's representative. Much of the irregularity arose in connection with the election of delegates from each prefecture. Government officials and capitalists dominated the whole procedure. Local governors, following out the directions sent them from the central Government called together representatives from the various mines and factories within their own prefectures. At these local conferences the governors as a rule stated frankly that it was not necessary to choose laborers as delegates, but that any one who had an understanding of the general problems up for solution would be elegible. Furthermore, in practically all cases the governors approved the choosing of delegates according to plans suggested and sanctioned by the owners or capitalists. As a result of this, it is a fact that not only the local conferences which chose the delegates to the general conference, but the national conference itself, were all dominated by a large majority of capitalists. As a result of these local elections there have come into my hands numerous complaints and protests from laborers in all parts of the country. Unfortunately, however, Japanese labor is still so unorganized generally speaking that no efficacious protest can be lodged against these practices. In spite of the discontent which they feel in their own hearts, laborers are xxxxxxxxxx virtually obliged to follow blindly the dictates of the capitalists. While it is true that the representatives in the various Government factories were chosen in a comparatively legitimate manner, the action of these delegates when once they appeared at the national conference was carefully spied upon by officials of the Government. Especially is this true of the delegates representing the great army and Navy arsenals. These men were actually watched over by uniformed officers of the army and navy who were present to hear all the proceedings of the conference. Finally, five labor organizations were recognized by allowing them five delegates. It is difficult, however, to comprehend the standard set up by the Government whereby it recognized these labor organizations. Of those recognized, some were organized recently and have neither executive committees, rules, or membership fees. Those conversant with the situation recognize that one of these so-called labor organizations is supported mainly by a benevolent capitalism and has a membership of only two or three hundred. In matter of representation such an organization was put upon an equal footing with regularly established, fully-organized labor organizations. Organizations of this kind have actually done nothing to promote the genuine interests of labor, but have on the contrary in many cases actually attacked those interests. Of these[*404*] -3- some are local and in spite of this were given equal power with those of far wider interests and influence. All this in a word is a part of the Government's consistent policy to check the growth of an effective labor movement and keep labor obedient to the voices of Government officials and capitalists. The general conference with delegates chosen as outlined briefly above met September 15th in Tokyo. I had the honor of representing the Yuai Kai with whose purpose you are familiar, being thus one of the seventy-five delegates. I observed immediately that more than fifty of the seventy-five delegates present were not laborers nor did they in any sense represent labor. You can imagine my astonishment. In line with this I addressed four questions to the Minister of Agriculture and Commerce under whose direction the conference met. (1) First I asked the Minister to make clear to all present the methods which had been adopted in each prefecture to bring about the election of delegates to the general conference. This request was refused. (2) Following this I asked if the Government had exercised any supervision over the election thus assuring a just and equitable outcome. To this the answer was no. (3) In answer to the question as to whether or not any effort had been made to investigate the various election processes after the delegates had been chosen, the Minister answered no. (4) Finally I asked the Minister if it was his intention to examine the credentials of the delegates who had gathered to discharge this very important function. His answer was that such a procedure was quite unnecessary. A further item which should be brought to your attention is the fact that the delegates to the general conference in Tokyo were limited in their representation to factory and mine workers, thus neglecting entirely 160,000 seamen in Japan. In answer to my question as to whether or not the Government considered this exclusion of the seamen an unjust procedure, it was pointed out that since the seamen's problems were not included in the five problems of the regular agenda drawn up for the coming conference it could not be viewed as irregular to exclude the seamen from representation. In the whole attitude of the officials present who directed the conference there was revealed a vast lack of understanding of the labor situation and of international labor legislation. Furthermore, there was a distinct lack of sincerity on the part of these men to face the facts squarely and to so direct the conference as to redound to the just interests of labor. For these reasons I made the statement that I could not work harmoniously with these men and withdrew from the conference. On the same afternoon the representative of the Tokyo Printers' Union, one of the five labor organizations, followed my example. The representative of the Labor Union of Hyogo Ken was of a like opinion and withdrew. In spite of all this the Government proceeded with its program until the 17th when the representatives of the Osaka Iron Workers' Union and of another organization known as "The Labor Union of Japan" also withdrew for the reason that their demand that a regular handworker should be chosen as delegate was evidently to be ignored. Five other handworkers withdrew on the same ground. Nothing daunted, the conference proceeded on the next day with its regular program of choosing[*405*] --4-- choosing a candidate, and the election resulted as follows: first, Seichi Honda, Ph.D., head editor of the Economic Magazine of Tokyo; second, Iwasburo Takano, Ph.D., professor in the Imperial University of Tokyo; third, Uhei Masumoto, director and chief engineer of the Toba shipyards. The first and second candidates refused to accept the candidacy offered them on the ground that they could not go to an international labor conference without the support of the labor organizations of the country. The third candidate, Mr. Masumoto, however, accepted in spite of the objections raised against him from all directions. For the following four reasons we are opposed to Mr. Masumoto's candidacy: (1) We insist that the conference which chose Mr. Masumoto was most irregular in its organization, was dominated by the Government and by capitalism, and could not therefore chose a regular labor delegate. (2) Mr. Masumoto as director and chief engineer of the Toba shipyards which is connected with Suzuki & Company one of the richest institutions in the country, is therefore better qualified in all respects to represent capital, but on the other hand is in no [me?e] qualified to represent labor. (3) Mr. Masumoto was chosen by the recent so-called labor conference after four out of five of the representatives of the labor organizations had withdrawn. He cannot therefore speak on behalf of the labor organizations of the country. (4) At the time when it became clear that Mr. Masumoto would be asked to go due to the resignation of Dr. Honda and Dr. Takano he stated openly that he would accept only on condition that the government would agree: (A) to abolish Article 17 of the police regulations (it is the enforcement of this article which makes the xxxxxxxxx development of labor unions in the country exceedingly difficult) and (B) that the Government would recognize labor unions as having legal standing. The curious fact is, however, that when he was formally asked by the Minister of Agriculture and Commerce he accepted without the slightest reference to the conditions which he had formerly laid down and stated that having been requested to go to this important conference it remained only for him to humbly accept. I may also add by way of parentheseis that toward the end of last June when certain high Government officials believed that the choice of a labor delegate would be put into the hands of the Government itself, these officials actually approached Mr. Masumoto with the request that he accept their nomination. While his choice didn't come about exactly as had been originally contemplated by these officials, the fact is that he goes to it to all intents and purposes the officially elected delegate of the Government in collaboration with the strong capitalistic influences. In other words, the delegate who goes nominally as the representative of Japanese labor is in fact the representative of officialdom and capitalism. Labor is left without a representative while the Government and capital virtually have two representatives each. It seems to us that to practice such a policy of hood-winking at the very first International Labor Conference in contrary to the whole spirit of the League of Nations and brings[*406*] -5- to naught the whole structure of international labor legislation. Furthermore, it reacts most unfavorably upon the health and growth of the labor movement in Japan. As representatives of labor organizations whose deepest concern is the steady movement forward of labor organization in this country, we cannot without protest overlook such injustice. In this grave predicament in which we find ourselves we look with confidence to you knowing that your sincere interest in and unqualified devotion to the cause of labor as well as your position as an outstanding leading in the labor world will lead you to take such steps as will bring justice to the cause of our struggling labor movement in Japan. Through you we desire to offer a strong protest at the International Labor Conference against Mr. Masumoto. We trust that you will rise to act in our behalf in this very important matter. You may do so with the more confidence since we assure you that what we say here is not merely the voice of those whose signatures are attached, but is rather the universal appeal of unorganized as well as organized labor in Japan/- Faithfully yours, Bunji Suzuki President Yuaikai (Federation of Labor of Japan - former, Laborers' Friendly Society of Japan) Hisashi Aso - Secretary Koju Matsuba (President Federated Miners of Japan) Masaoki Tsumashima (Secretary) K. Sugizaki (President Printers Union of Japan) T. Tastsuta (Secretary.[*407*] -5- E Oct. 29, 191 W. H. B. Butler, Secretary, International Labor Conference, Executive Offices, Navy Bldg., City. Dear Sir:- Responding to your favor of this late in which you advise that the American Federation of Labor has been invited by the International Labor Conference and its Organizing Committee to select a representative to participate in the International Labor Conference now being held in Washington. I beg to say that by authority of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor the [undersigned?] has been chosen to act Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*408*] VLY October 31,1919 WHEN REPLYING KINDLY REFER TO RESOLUTION NO. 34. Miss May Walker, Secretary, Library Employees Union No. 15590, 59 West tenth St., New York City. Dear Madam: The Executive Council of the American Federationof Labor has just concluded its two weeks session at headquarters. Among other matters receiving consideration was resolution No. 34 of the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor, introduced by the delegate from your local union, and dealing with the matter of Civil Service for Librarians, representation of Library employes Union on all committees having in charge Library activities, and representation of Union Labor on all boards of trustees for Libraries. Resolution No. 34 was adopted by the convention, and the Executive Council was instructed to take action to remedy the situation. You will please find enclosed a copy of a circular letter which is being addressed to the secretaries of all State Federations of Labor and Central Labor Unions in connection with this matter. I trust that the letter will bring about the desired result. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.409 LFL. October 30th, 1919 Miss Elinor Dugas, 39 West 34th Street, New York, N.Y, Dear Madam:- Your letter of October 20th received and contents noted. Perhaps some day I may have the time to give the sitting you desire but just at present, it is utterly beyond my power to do so. I will not lose sight of the matter and will do the best I can for you. I do appreciate your desire and hope to be able to conform thereto. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*410*] LFL. October 30, 1919 Mr. V. G. Pittman, Corresponding Secretary, Washington Metal Trades Council, 1034 12th Street, S.E., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 25th received and contents noted. You advise me that the Metal Trades Council of this city has endorsed Robert H. Alcorn, member of the Molders Union, for appointment on the Rent Commission created by recent enactment of Congress. You ask that I shall be helpful in any way that I can in securing Mr. Alcorn's appointment. Permit me to say in reply that a week or ten days before the receipt of your letter the matter of the appointment of a labor representative upon this commission had been brought to my attention and the name of Mr. John Colpoys was suggested as being one who would acceptably and capably act upon the commission if appointed. I, therefore, submitted his name to Honorable William B. Wilson, Secretary of the Department of Labor. Under the circumstances, therefore, I am sure you will agree with me that it would not be advisable for me to submit Mr. Alcorn's name no matter how capably he may be of fulfilling the duties of the position if appointed. With kind regard and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.411 AS. October 30,1919. Mr. Fred J. Clark, Recording-Secretary United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Local 2161, West Shore, Catskill, N.Y. October 29th Fred J. Clark Catskill and vicinity. Catskill Saml Gompers[*412*] LAS:AS. October 30,1919. Mr. A. J. Wayne, Recording-Secretary Hagerstown Central Labor Union, 645 S. Potomac, Hagerstown, MD. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 26th received and referred to me for attention by Secretary Morrison. In accordance with your information that Organizer F. M. Stouffer has resigned, he is being dropped from our records today. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[413] LAS:AS. October 30, 1919. Mr. C. L. Shamp, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, 3615 North 24th St., Omaha, NEBR. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find herein copy of a communication which is self- explanatory. I have informed Mr. James E. Frantz that the firemen come under the jurisdiction of your international union and that I would communicate with you requesting that you immediately take up the matter with the above party. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. Encl.[414] LAS:AS. October 30, 1919. Mr. James R. Frantz, General Delivery, Redford, Michigan. Dear Sir: Your favor of October 28th received. The firemen come under the jurisdiction of the International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, and I am therefore sending a copy of your communication to Secretary Shamp with the request that he communicate with you direct. You will no doubt hear from him very soon, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor. P.S. The address of Secretary Shamp is 3615 North 24th Street, Omaha, Nebraska.[415] LAS:AS. October 30, 1919. Mr. O. Lemay, Travelling Representative United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes and Railway Shop Laborers, New Chase Hotel, Portland, MAINE. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 28th addressed to Secretary Morrison has been referred to me for attention. You state that you have written to your International President, A. E. Barker, relative to your securing a commission as volunteer organizer for the American Federation of Labor. I beg to advise you that as soon as an official recommendation is received I shall be glad to give the matter of the issue of your commission immediate attention. However, before commission can be issued an official endorsement must be received from your international union, and to date same has not reached this office. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.416 VLY October 27,1919 Mr. Paul Scharrenberg, Secretary, California State Federation of Labor 525 Market St., San Francisco, California, Mr. R. L. Ennis, President, Sacramento Federated Trades Council, Box 2, Labor Temple, Sacramento, California. Mr. Seth R. Brown, President, Central Labor Council, Room 202 Labor Temple, Los Angeles, California. Mr. Daniel C. Murphy, President, California State Federation of Labor 326 Richland Ave., San Francisco, California. Mr. Mike Casey, San Francisco, California. Dear Sirs: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just closed its session at headquarters. The meeting just closed was the first regular meeting which has been held since the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor. The Executive Council had before it various matters referred to it by the Atlantic City convention. One of the convention subjects thus considered was the Mooney case. The E. C. directed that a committee should be appointed to wait upon the Governor of California and urge that a pardon be granted to Thomas J. Mooney and Warren K. Billings so that they may have their freedom, or at least a new trial upon one of the indictments pending against them. It is with this purpose in view therefore, that I am addressing a letter jointly to you gentlemen to request that you act as this committee of the A. F. of L., and I trust that you can see your way clear to undertake the duties thus imposed. If you do accept I hope that you will be able to undertake the matter at an early date and that you will advise me in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, [American Federation of Labor]417 VLY October 27,1919 Mr. Paul Scharrenberg, Secretary, Mr. Daniel C. Murphy, President, California State Federation of Labor Mr. Seth R. Brown, President, Central Labor Council, Los Angeles, Cal. Mr. R. L. Ennis, President, Federated Trades Council, Sacramento, Cal. Mr. Mike Casey, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sirs: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just closed its session at headquarters. The meeting thus closed was the first regular meeting which has been held since the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor. The Executive Council had before it various matters referred to it by the Atlantic City convention. One of the convention subjects thus considered was the Mooney case. The E. C. directed that a committee should be appointed to wait upon the Governor of California and urge that a pardon be granted to Thomas J. Mooney and Warren K. Billings so that they may have their freedom, or at least a new trial upon one of the indictments pending against them. It is with this purpose in view therefore, that I am addressing this letter jointly to you gentlemen to request that you act as this committee of the A. F. of L., and I trust that you can see your way clear to undertake the matter at an early date and that you will advise me in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.418 VLY October 27,1919 Mr. Paul Scharrenberg, Secretary, Mr. Daniel C. Murphy, President, California State Federation of Labor Mr. Seth R.Brown, President, Central Labor Council, Los Angeles, Cal. Mr. R. L. Ennis, President, Federated Trades Council, Sacramento, Cal. Mr. Mike Casey, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sirs: The Executive Council of the AmericanFederation of Labor has just closed its session at headquarters. The meeting just closed was the first regular meeting which has been held since the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor. The Executive Council had before it a number of matters referred to it by the Atlantic City convention. One of the convention subjects thus considered was the Mooney case. The E. C. directed that a committee should be appointed to wait upon the Governor of California and urge a pardon be granted to Thomas J. Mooney and Warren K. Billings so that they may have their freedom, or at least a new trial upon one of the indictments pending against them. It is with this purpose in view therefore, that I am addressing this letter jointly to you gentlemen to request that you act as this committee of the A. F. of L., and I trust that you can see your way clear to undertake the matter at an early date and that you will advise me in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.419 VLY October 27,1919 Mr. Paul Scharrenberg, Secretary, Mr. Daniel C. Murphy, President, California State Federation of Labor Mr. Seth R. Brown, President, Central Labor Council, Los Angeles, Cal. Mr. R. L. Ennis, President, Federated Trades Council, Sacramento, Cal. Mr. Mike Casey, San Francisco, California. Dear Sirs: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just closed its session at headquarters. The meeting just closed was the first regular meeting which has been held since the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor. The Executive Council had before it a number of matters referred to it by the Atlantic City convention. One of the convention subjects thus considered was the Mooney case. The E. C. directed that a committee should be appointed to wait upon the Governor of California and urge a pardon be granted to Thomas J. Mooney and Warren K. Billings so that they may have their freedom, or at least a new trial upon one of the indictments pending against them. It is with this purpose in view therefore, that I am addressing this letter jointly to you gentlemen to request that you act as this committee of the A. F. of L., and I trust that you can see your way clear to undertake the matter at an early date and that you will advise me in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.420 VLY October 27,1919 Mr. Paul Scharrenberg, Secretary, California State Federation of Labor, 525 Market St., San Francisco, California. Mr. R. L. Ennis, President, Sacramento Federated Trades Council, Box 2, Labor Temple, Sacramento,California. Mr. Seth R. Brown, President, Central Labor Council, Room 202, Labor Temple, Los Angeles, California. Mr. Daniel C. Murphy, President, California State Federation of Labor 326 Richland Ave., San Francisco, California. Mr. Mike Casey, San Francisco, California. Dear Sirs: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has just closed its session at headquarters. The meeting just closed was the first regular meeting which has been held since the Atlantic City convention of the American Federation of Labor. The Executive Council had before it a number of matters referred to it by the Atlantic City convention. One of the convention subjects thus considered was the Mooney case. The E. C. directed that a committee should be appointed to wait upon the Governor of California and urge that a pardon be granted to Thomas J. Mooney and Warren K. Billings so that they may have their freedom, or at least a new trial upon one of the indictments pending against them. It is with this purpose in view therefore, that I am addressing this letter jointly to you gentlemen to request that you act as this committee of the A. F. of L., and I trust that you can see your way clear to undertake the duties thus imposed. If you do accept I hope that you will be able to undertake the matter at an early date and that you will advise me in regard thereto. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.421 E. Oct. 27, 1919. Mrs. B. Franklin Cross, Suite 1109, #2 Rector Street, New York City. Dear Mrs. Cross: Your letter of October 19th received and contents noted. It is very good of you to offer your services in any way that I think you could be of help in the present critical situation in the labor world. I appreciate your offer and shall not lose sight of it. Sincerely yours, [Saml Gompers] President, American Federation of Labor.[*422*] LFL. October 29th, 1919 Mr. Ernest Kletch, Bureau of Applied Economics, Inc., 931 Fifteenth Street, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 25th received. You may consider this letter as an order for the complete file of the Docket of the National War Labor Board which is to consist of five or six bound volumes, giving excerpts from the docket in all cases not covered by an award (about 800), the printed awards and orders of the Board together with the annual report of the Secretary, the analysis of the awards by Mr. Robert P. Reeder, and a most complete index covering many points. The volumes are to be at a charge of $150.00 with the understanding that if you secure a sufficient number of subscribers to issue an edition of 25 sets, there willbe a rebate of 35%. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.423 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. Jere L. Sullivan, Secretary-Treasurer Hotel and Restaurant Employes' International Alliance and Bartenders' International League of America, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, OHIO. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer William Jones of Sweetwater, Texas in lengthy communications to this office reviews in detail conditions in the above city and states that there is a possibility of organizing a local union of your international organization. If possible, please send one of your representatives to Sweetwater to take up the work, but if you find that this is not practical I would thank you to forward to Organizer Jones an application blank, literature and full information. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.424 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. Thomas E. Burke, Secretary-Treasurer United Association of Plumbers and Steam Fitters of the United States and Canada, 411 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, ILL. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer William Jones of Sweetwater,Texas in lengthy communications to this office reviews in detail conditions in the above city and states that there is a possibility of organizing a local union of your international organization. If possible, please send one of your representatives to Sweetwater to take up the work, but if you find that this is not practical I would thank you to forward to Organizer Jones an application blank, literature and full information. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.425 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. Frank Duffy, Secretary United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana, Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer William Jones of Sweetwater, Texas in lengthy communications to this office reviews in detail conditions in the above city and states that there is a possibility of organizing a local union of your international organization. If possible, please send one of your representatives to Sweetwater to take up the work, but if you find that this is not practical I would thank you to forward to Organizer Jones an application blank, literature and full information. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.426 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary-Treasurer Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer William Jones of Sweetwater,Texas in lengthy communications to this office reviews in detail conditions in the above city and states that there is a possibility of organizing a local union of your international organization. If possible, please send one of your representatives to Sweetwater to take up the work, but if you find that this is not practical I would thank you to forward to Organizer Jones an application blank, literature and full information. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor427 LAS:AS. October 29,1919. Mr. H. J. Conway, Secretary-Treasurer Retail Clerks' International Protective Association, Lock Drawer 248, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer William Jones of Sweetwater, Texas in lengthy communications to this office reviews in detail conditions in the above city and states that there is a possibility of organizing a local union of your international organization. If possible, please send one of your representatives to Sweetwater to take up the work, but if you find that this is not practical I would thank you to forward to Organizer Jones an application blank, literature and full information. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.428 E. Oct. 31, 1919 Mr. T.C. Atkinson, National Grange, 303 5th St. [?????] Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in conjunction with the four railroad brotherhoods which are as yet unaffiliated to the American Federation of Labor, has issued a call to the executives of the affiliated national and international unions to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C., at ten o'clock on the morning of December 13th. The representatives of the several Farmers' Organizations who are located here in this city participated in a conference with the officers of the A.F. of L. and the railroad brotherhoods when the matter of calling the conference on December 13th was considered. While expressing their sympathy with the purposes of the conference, yet, they thought that they did not have the authority to join in the call for the conference. They advised us that the conventions of the several organizations of Farmers would be held within the next thirty days. It was thereupon unanimously agreed that a formal invitation would be extended to you and through you to your convention to have the National Grange suitably represented in the conference of December 13th and it is both my duty and my pleasure to extend that invitation. The conference will consider the critical situation in the industrial and legislative field and endeavor to agree upon fundamental principles and the adoption of a program which all will accept in performing their duties as citizens and at the same time maintain the right of free men in order to conserve human interests and welfare. Among the subjects to be discussed is not only co-operation between the farmers' organizations and the organizations of workers in industry and transportation, but also the cooperation in selling of products produced by the farmers and the purchase of products necessary to farmers. I most earnestly hope that your organization will consider429 -2- favorably the invitation above extended that I may hear from you at the earliest possible moment advising me of your acceptance. With assurance of my high regard, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor430 E. Oct. 31, 1919. Mr. C. S. Barrett, President, Farmers Educational and Protective Union of America, 1731 Eye St., N. W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in conjunction with the four railroad brotherhoods which are as yet unaffiliated to the American Federation of Labor, has issued a call to the executives of the affiliated national and international unions to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C., at ten o'clock on the morning of December 13th. The representatives of the several Farmers' Organizations who are located here in this city participated in a conference with the officers of the A.F. of L. and the railroad brotherhoods when the matter of calling the conference on December 13th was considered. While expressing their sympathy with the purposes of the conference, yet, they thought that they did not have the authority to join in the call for the conference. They advised us that the conventions of the several organizations of Farmers would be held within the next thirty days. It was thereupon unanimously agreed that a formal invitation would be extended to you and through you to your convention to have the Farmers Educational and Protective Union of Ameri suitably represented in the conference of December 13th and it is both my duty and my pleasure to extend that invitation. The conference will consider the critical situation in the industrial and legislative field and endeavor to agree upon fundamental principles and the adoption of a program which all will accept in performing their duties as citizens and at the same time maintain the right of free men in order to conserve human interests and welfare. Among the subjects to be discussed is not only co-operation between the farmers' organizations and the organizations of workers in industry and transportation, but also the cooperation in selling of products produced by the farmers and the purchase of products necessary to farmers. I most earnestly hope that your organization will consider favorably the invitation above extended and that I may hear from you[*431*] -2- at the earliest possible moment advising me of your acceptance. With assurance of my high regard, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.432 E. Oct. 31, 1919. Mr. J. D. Miller, National Milk Producers' Association, 1731 Eye St. N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in conjunction with the four railroad brotherhoods which are as yet unaffiliated to the American Federation of Labor, has issued a call to the executives of the affiliated national and international unions to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C., at ten o'clock on the morning of December 13th. The representatives of the several Farmers' Organizations who are located here in this city participated in a conference with the officers of the A.F. of L. and the railroad brotherhoods when the matter of calling the conference on December 13th was considered. While expressing their sympathy with the purposes of the conference, yet, they thought that they did not have the authority to join in the call for the conference. They advised us that the conventions of the several organizations of Farmers would be held within the next thirty days. It was thereupon unanimously agreed that a formal invitation would be extended to you and through you to your convention to have the National Milk Producers Association suitably represented in the conference of December 13th and it is both my duty and my pleasure to extend that invitation. The conference will consider the critical situation in the industrial and legislative field and endeavor to agree upon fundamental principles and the adoption of a program which all will accept in performing their duties as citizens and at the same time maintain the right of free men in order to conserve human interests and welfare. Among the subjects to be discussed is not only co-operation between the farmers' organizations and the organizations of workers in industry and transportation, but also the cooperation in selling of products produced by the farmers and the purchase of products necessary to farmers. I most earnestly hope that your organization will consider favorably the invitation above extended and that I may hear from you433 -2- at the earliest possible moment advising me of your acceptance. With assurance of my high regard, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.434 E. Oct. 31, 1919. Mr. I. N. Tittemore, President, American Society of Equity, Armo, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother:- The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in conjunction with the four railroad brotherhoods which are as yet unaffiliated to the American Federation of Labor, has issued a call to the executives of the affiliated national and international unions to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C., at ten o'clock on the morning of December 13th. The representatives of the several Farmers' Organizations who are located here in this city participated in a conference with the officers of the A.F. of L. and the railroad brotherhoods when the matter of calling the conference on December 13th was considered. While expressing their sympathy with the purposes of the conference, yet, they thought that they did not have the authority to join in the call for the conference. They advised us that the conventions of the several organizations of Farmers would be held within the next thirty days. It was thereupon unanimously agreed that a formal invitation should be extended to you and through you to your convention to have the American Society of Equity suitably represented in the conference of December 13th and it is both my duty and my pleasure to extend that invitation. The conference will consider the critical situation in the industrial and legislative field and endeavor to agree upon fundamental principles and the adoption of a program which all will accept in performing their duties as citizens and at the same time maintain the right of free men in order to conserve human interests and welfare. Among the subjects to be discussed is not only cooperation between the farmers' organizations and the organizations of workers in industry and transportation, but also the cooperation in selling of products produced by the farmers and the purchase of products necessary to farmers. I most earnestly hope that your organization will consider favorably the invitation above extended and that I may hear from you435 -2- at the earliest possible moment advising me of your acceptance. With assurance of my high regard, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*436*] LFL. October 29, 1919 Mr. J. Weller Long, Secretary-Treasurer, National Union American Society of Equity, Room 340, Washington Building, Madison, Wisconsin. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 23rd received and contents noted. You express the belief that there should be a joing conference of farmers and wage earners for the purpose of uniting upon some broad and fundamental demands and arrange a closer relationship between the two classes of workers. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has anticipated your suggestion. As you will note from the letter which I have just addressed to Mr. I. W. Tittemore, President of the American Society of Equity, Armo, Wisconsin, carbon copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. To know that you are so whole-heartedly in favor of the suggestion is indeed very gratifying to me. Sincerely yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.437 WCR:EJL Oct. 31, 1919. Mr. P. E. Gossett, Secretary, Central Labor Union, P. O. Box 411, Durant, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother: Your Constitution has been approved and is herewith returned to you. You ask if the Constitution could be printed in Washington any cheaper than in your home town. We doubt it very much, as wage scales are very much higher here than in Durant. It would be advisable to have them printed there. With best wishes for your organization and yourself, I remain, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*438*] BP October 31, 1919. Mr. Geo. M. McKee, Asst. Principal, Cle Elum High School Cle Elum, Washington. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 21 received and contents noted. You state that the State High School shall take part is a debate upon the question - "Resolved, That the immigration of foreign laborers into the United States should be prohibited for a period of at least eight years." You request that you be furnished data upon the subject, to be used in the preparation for debate. You do not state upon which side of the question you will debate. In any event, you attention is called to the Reconstruction Program of the American Federation of Labor, copy of which is enclosed herein. The subject of immigration is dealt with on page 10. It should be added that the Reconstruction Program was approved by the last annual convention of the American Federation of Labor, held in June, 1919. If there is anything published on your debate, I should be glad to have you send the press reports to me. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, encl American Federation of Labor.[*439*] EP October 31, 1919. Mr. Newton A. James, Secretary, Washington Central Labor Union, 606 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- On every hand I have heard nothing but praise of the wonderful parade and demonstration of last Tuesday evening. I would be less than human if I were not profoundly touched, but as I stated in my address in the Liberty Hut, I prefer to accept the magnificent demonstration as a tribute of Labor to the ideals for which the Labor movement stands and to the interpretation of which I have devoted my entire life - rather than to assume to myself personally the great tribute. But be that as it may, I want to assure you and through you the officers and delegates of the Central Labor Union, the officers and members of every union affiliated to the Central Body , and to the friends who co-operated with them, of my profound appreciation and gratitude. The events of Tuesday evening, October 28, 1919 will remain in my memory so long as life shall last as one of the most impressive occasions of my long life. Fraternally yours Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*440*] F Oct.31,1919. Mr. Everett Colby, 738 Broad Street, Newark, New Jersey, Dear Sir: Your letter of the 28th instant received and contents noted. Permit me to thank you for your cordial invitation for me to make an address at the annual dinner of the New England Society of the Oranges, New Jersey, on the evening of December 22nd. I should be very glad to comply with your request but I fear my engagements are of such a nature as will prevent my doing so. Again thanking you for the invitation, I am Verytruly yours, Saml. Gompers President American Federation of Labor.441 F Oct.31,1919. Mr. Samuel Blair, Member Machinists Local #1043, 1446 Hamilton Ave., Trenton, New Jersey. Dear Sir: Permit me in President Gompers name to thank you for the suggestions contained in your letter of the 28th instant. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*442*] F Oct. 31,1919. Mr. Lawrence A. Grace, Secretary Rhode Island State Federation of Labor, 37 Weybosset St., Providence, R.I. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 30th received and contents noted. You suggest the advisability of having the representatives from the various state organizations of labor participate in the conference of December 13th. The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its meeting took the entire subject under consideration but decided that the invitation should be sent only to the executive officers of the national and international unions. The call for the conference is issued jointly by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor and the four railroad brotherhoods. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*443*] F Oct.31,1919. Mr. Geo. L. Schoonover, Chairman Executive Commission of the Masonic Service Association of the United States, Anamosa, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 23rd received and contents noted. Your letter deals with the the general subject matter of industrial training and vocational education. This entire subject has been very fully dealt with by various conventions of the American Federation of Labor. I would suggest that you refer to pages 207 to 215, inclusive, of the American Federation of Labor History, Encyclopedia and Reference Book. Reference to the entire subject of education, industrial training and vocational education are given therein and from which you will very clearly understand the attitude of the American Federation of Labor. Copy of this volume can be furnished for you for $2.00. In addition the special committee on Industrial Education of the American Federation of Labor made a report to the annual convention of the A.F.of L. held at Rochester, New York in November 1912. That report was afterward published in pamphlet form and can be furnished you for 25 cents. You will please find enclosed two copies of the American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program. Very fruly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*444*] LL October 31, 1919. Mr. Ed. T. Patterson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 265, Thurber, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 2?th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for reply. I note what you say regarding the situation affecting the members of Federal Labor Union No. 11449, and they have not been on strike, but on suspension as usual owing to the expiration of their contract. You state that the manager has returned and the chairman of the committee would arrange a meeting with him. Kindly advise me if the members of this local have ceased work until a new agreement is reached; also advise me the results of the meeting of the committee regarding this new agreement. With kind regards and awaiting your further reply, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*445*] LL October 31, 1919. Mr. H. L. Kerwin, Assistant to Secretary Wilson, Department of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Mr. Kerwin: You will please find enclosed herewith copy of telegram and letter received from L. E. Williams, President of the Central Trades and Labor Council, of Bogalusa, Louisiana, regarding the lockout of members of our local union of Sawyers and Filers No. 16723, by the Great Southern Lumber Company. Please let me have your advice regarding this matter. I have advised President Williams that the matter was being referred to you for advice and attention and as soon as I heard from you, I would advise him further regarding the matter. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.446 COPY. TELEGRAM. 287NO QY 94 NO. 6 EX BOGALUSA LA OCT 24 1919 SAMUEL GOMPERS A.F. OF L. BLDG., WASHINGTON DC. REQUEST THAT YOU HAVE CONDITIONS HERE INVESTIGATED GREAT SOUTHERN LUMBER CO. HAS LOCKED OUT MEN, IMPORTING STRIKE BREAKERS CITY AUTHORITIES ARRESTING PICKETS IN PUBLIC HIGHWAYS, GENERAL MANAGER OF THE COMPANY IS ALSO MAYOR. MEN REFUSED BOND ON TRIVIAL CHARGES,CO EMPLOYING MURDER- ERS AS GUNMEN, NO DISORDER CHARGED AGAINST UNION MEN; WARRANTS REFUSED AGAINST COMPANY MEN; UNION MEN ARE ORDERLY BUT,MACHINE GUNS ARE BEING FIRED BY THE COMPANY AT TIMES TO TRY TO CREATE STRIFE AND INCITE RIOT. LETTER FOLLOWS. COPY TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL AT WASHINGTON,DC. L.E. WILLIAMS, PRESIDENT GENERAL TRADES,AND LABOR COUNCIL. 1035P447 CENTRAL TRADES AND LABOR COUNCIL Bogalusa,Louisiana. October, 27th, 1919 Mr. Samuel Gompers, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: In regards to my wire to you regarding conditions here. I herewith respectfully request that you have an investigation made of conditions such as exist here. A bout a month ago we were locked out by the Great Southern Lbr. Co. who has since made all efforts possible to incite the workers to rioting. The company employs about 3000 workers, about 95% are organized being members of the International Timberworkers and other organizations. The General Manager of the mill is also Mayor of the town, and has permitted the Police Officers to arrest workers for picketing on the Public Highways and has in some instances had bond refused these workers. The company has also hired a number of gunmen, -several of them are outlaws and murderers, and are trying by every conceivable means to incite the workers to rioting. The success of the entire labor movement in the south depends on this right, as the Great Southern Lbr. Co. being the largest saw mill in the South, and being backed by the Southern Pine Association, which is composed of 116 lumber companies, is making all efforts to break up our organization. A favorite practice of these notorious gunmen employed by the Great Southern Lbr. Co. is to fire machine guns, promiscously, in an effort to intimidate the workers [?w?] are all law abiding448 -2- citizens and are only exercising their rights as American citizens. Therefore we would respectfully request that some investigation be made, which will tend to give us justice, and anything that can be done will be to the best interest of the American Federation of Labor. A Federal investigation would be to the best interest of the laboring class, but detrimental to the capitalists as the workers are all law abiding, but refuse to be led into the traps, and bondage of the capitalists. At the present writing the capitalists have not had an opportunity to charge the workers with even the most trifling offense, but at the same time the city administrations has refused warrants against the gunmen employed by the Great Southern Lumber Co., but appear to favor these gunmen inallways possible. Therefore, hoping for an investigation as early as possi- ble, I am, Fraternally Yours, /s/ L.E. WILLIAMS President Central Trades and Labor Council.[*449*] LL October 31, 1919. Mr. L. E Williams, President, Central Trades and Labor Council, c/o Harry L. Marsalis, Box 867, Bogalusa, Louisiana.. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 27th received and contents carefully noted. Let me say, in reply, that I am taking up this matter with Secretary Wilson, of the Department of Labor, asking that a Federal investigation be made of the conditions surrounding the lockout of the members of Sawyers and Filers Local No. 16723, by the Great Southern Lumber Company. As soon as I receive information from Secretary Wilson, I will advise you further. I sincerely trust a satisfactory settlement of this matter will soon be brought about and appreciate very much your attention to same. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*450*] LL October 31, 1919. Mr. J. H. Hinds, President, and C. A. Moore, Secretary, Dairy Products & Creamery Workers' Union No. 16888, 1030 I Street, Sacramento, Calif. Dear Sirs and Brothers: I beg to acknowledge receipt of 2 copies of your wage agreement which is approved by the Sacramento Federated Trades Council. I thank you for sending me these copies and would appreciate it very much if you would advise me if your local was successful in securing this agreement. Of course, you are familiar with the fact that we do not submit agreements to the Executive Council for approval until a local has been in affiliation to the American Federation of Labor for one year. Therefore, in case of strike or lockout, in the enforcement of this agreement, your local would not be entitled to financial assistance, charter having been issued in August, 1919, and, of course, your local will not be in affiliation on year until August, 1920. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you further regarding this matter, I am. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*451*] LL October 31, 1919. Messrs. W. R. Wade, President and W. H. Springer, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 16988, 817 S. 16th St., Paducah, Ky. Dear Sirs and Brothers: I am in receipt of copy of communication which your local addressed to the Paducah Central Labor Union, Paducah, Kentucky, regarding the grievance the members of your local is having with the Paducah Light and Power Company. I also note the demands your local are seeking from this company. I sincerely trust a satisfactory settlement of your grievance will be brought about and that the members of your local will be successful in securing the demands which they are asking and, therefore, bring about the improvements in the conditions of labor which the members regard as fair and just. Of course you realize that in case of strike or lockout, in the enforcement of your demands, that your local would not be entitled to financial assistance, inasmuch as it has not been in affiliation to the American Federation of Labor for one year, charter having been issued in September, 1919. I would suggest that you get in touch with our Volunteer Organizer in Paducah, Mr. John C. Reavis, R. F. D. 2. Organizer Reavis will give your local all the advice and counsel in this matter which your members desire. I trust that the members of your local will guard against any hasty or ill-advised action and you will keep me advised as to the final outcome of the matter. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[452] LL October 30, 1919. Mr. Paul J. Smith, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Illmo Hotel, East St. Louis, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 28th received and contents noted. I thank you for your report on the situation at Joppa, Illinois and beg to advise that I am forwarding copy of same to Organizer Murphy, of Murphysboro, Illinois. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[453] LL October 30, 1919 Mr. Thomas Murphy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 215 Lucier St., Murphysboro, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of October 24th, I enclose herewith copy of report on the situation at Joppa, Illinois, affecting the members of Federal Labor Union No. 15632[8?], which I have just received from Organizer Smith. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure. 454 East St.Louis, Ill. Oct. 28th 1919 Mr. Samuel Gompers,President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your communication under date of the 24th instance relative report of the situation at Joppa Illinois, affecting Federal Labor Union #15632 was forwarded to me from my home address at Marion Ill. and I have to say that, just prior to my assignment to the United Mine Workers I visited Joppa and held a conference with the local officials together with quite a number of the members and learned that the Indiana Tie C ompany was trying to discourage their employes in their activities in the organization and was circulating different reports as to what they proposed to do but the company had finally signified their willingness to renew the old contract however they were opposed to granting any increase in wages or changing any conditions whatever. I took the matter up with the President of the Company and some two or three weeks later I received a short reply that the company did not care to grant any concessions and if the men did not want to sign the old contract that they proposed to shut the plant down indefinitely as the Government was not taking any ties and they did not care to run the plant anyway. The fact is they had not run the plant for some time before the old contract expired and I am convinced they do not care to start the plant before final disposition is made of the Rail Roads by the Government, therefore they would not be working even though the men agreed to sign the old contract.455 I understand the day men, some five or six employes, refused to continue work until the company had granted an increase in wages. These men had been retained to install some new machinery, consequently the status is about the same as a strike. The membership had only been paying forty cents per month as dues and are not making any claim for strike benifits. However, beginning with August 1919 they raised their dues to seventy-five cents per month to comply with the new constitution. Last week I happened to meet quite a number of the men from Joppa and they told me that the situation remained unchanged and they still believed that when the company received any orders for ties they would not hesitate to grant the demands and start the plant. By special assignment by Secretary Morrison, I have been rendering assistance to acting President John L. Lewis of the Mine Workers and will have a conference with him this week and will no doubt learn something about the length of time he desires my services. Assuring you of my continued good wishes and with kindest personal regards I remain, Fraternally yours, /s/ Paul J. Smith, Organizer. ILIMO Hotel, East St.Louis,ILL.[*456*] LL October 31, 1919. Mr. James H. Hatch, President, Upholsterers' International Union of N. A., 142 East 80th St., New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from Secretary Martin L. Frist, of Federal Labor Union No. 15488, Fort Madison, Iowa, in which he says in part: "One of our past member has gone into business here and he says that he is unable to locate any mattress M.F.G. that is a union shop or bed spring shop. If there is a shop of either mattress or bed spring, please let me know, as he would like to handle union-made goods." Enclosed herewith please find carbon copy of my reply to Secretary Frist. I would appreciate it very much if you would furnish him the information desired. Thanking you in advance for your attention to this matter and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.[*457*] LL October 31, 1919 Mr. Martin L. Frist, Financial Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 15488, 306 S. Arch St., Fort Madson, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 27th received and contents noted. I am please to note that your local was successful in putting its new wage scale into effect into all firms but one and I sincerely trust this firm will soon put your wage scale into effect. I note your request for information regarding a union shop or bed spring shop, as one of your past members has gone into business and is unable to locate a shop of this character. Let me say, in reply, that I am referring this request to President James H. Hatch, of the Upholsterers' International Union of North America, 142 East 80th St., New York City, who will furnish you all the information you desire on this subject. I would be pleased to hear from you further as to the final outcome of your new demands and to receive a copy for our files. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*458*] LL October 31, 1919 Mr. Henry Streifler, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 383-7 Ellicott St., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 27th received and I thank you for the clipping regarding the strike of the members of Federal Labor Union No. 16843, of Silver Creek, N. Y. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*459*] LL October 31, 19 Mr. Henry Streifler, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 383-7 Ellicott St., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 27th received and I note that you are assisting the Chemical Workers' Local No. 16418 in their strike for an increase of wages for the members employed in the plant of the Mathieson Alkali Company. I am pleased to note that the matter is in the hands of an able strike committee and that you will do all you can to have same adjusted. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*460*] LL October 30, 1919. Mr. J. E. Wigger, Secretary, Tin, Steel, Iron and Granite Ware Workers Local No. 10943, 1719 D Street, Granite City, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 25th received, together with signed individual receipts for benefits paid to the members of your local for the 2nd week ending October 4th. These receipts have been checked back with the roll and some found all right, with the exception of one receipt missing, that of Ross Yuhass. Enclosed herewith please find receipt in duplicate, which kindly have this member sign and return the original to this office for our files. You ask regarding benefits for 3 members of your local who were called to service and took out withdrawal cards and some months ago deposited their cards. Enclosed herewith you will please find copy of resolution regarding this matter, adopted at the Buffalo Convention of the American Federation of Labor. These 5 members are entitled to benefits and I am enclosing herewith roll to be filled out by them. I also note your request for information regarding members who have been transferred to your local from another federal organization, as to whether or not they are entitled to strike benefits. It will be necessary that you furnish the date of their initiation and also the name of the organization in which they were initiated, before I can give you further information as to whether or not they are entitled to benefits. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers Secretary, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.LL October 30, 1919. Mr. George C. Childres, Financial Secretary, Tie Carriers' Union No. 15992, Box 130, Brockport, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 27th received and contents noted. You state that you wrote this office some time ago and sent a copy of your wage scale for handling ties for the Ayer & Lord Tie Company: that you have asked for a raise in wages and that you have given the company 5 days to answer and if they do not comply, you think a strike is in order. Let me say, in reply, that on September 30th I wrote you advising that your wage scale was submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration and same was approved. This approval carried with it the authorization of your local to go on strike. I sincerely trust that a satisfactory settlement of your new wage demands will be brought about and it will not be necessary for the members of your local to go on strike. I would suggest that you advise and counsel with Organiser Reavis in any move that your local makes in enforcement of your new demands. With kind regards, and wishing your local success in this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.461 LL October 30, 1919. Washington Herald, Washington, D. C. Gentlemen: I would appreciate it very much if you would furnish me six copies of your paper for October 20, 1919, with bill. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.462 LFL. October 31st, 1919 Mr. John Kemp Bruff, 31 Milton Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir:- Replying to your letter of October 26th permit me to call your attention to the Reconstruction Program of the American Federation of Labor and two other pamphlets issued by the American Federation of Labor dealing with the proposed formation of a political labor party and with the reasons why the peace treaty should be ratified. These three pamphlets are enclosed herein and are commended to your serious consideration. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.463 LFL. October 31st, 1919 Miss Dolpha Parker, 7 W Seminary, Danville, Illinois. Dear Madam:- Your letter of October 26th received and contents noted. I regret that I am not in a position to give you the information you desire regarding magazines and newspapers which will give unbiased information as to Labor's position in the matter of strikes, except to recommend to you the reading of the official trade journals and the labor press as per the enclosed list. Of course, you know that the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST is the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor of which I am Editor. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*464*] LFL. October 31st,1919 Mr. E. S. Elliot, Printer, P. O. Box No. 125, Fargo, North Dakota. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 25th received and contents noted. Permit me to say in reply as you have doubtless noticed from the press reports the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor jointly with the four railroad brotherhoods has issued a call for a conference with the executive officers of the affiliated national and international unions to be held in this city on December 13th. An invitation will be extended to the several Farmers' organizations to have representatives participate in this conference. It is hoped as a result of the conference that such plans and policies may be worked out as will help to solve the very serious problems confronting us. Thanking you for writing and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.465 LFL. October 31st,1919 Mr. George Foster Peabody, 35 Broad Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 37th received and contents noted. I appreciate your writing and all that you say regarding the address which I delivered last week in Baltimore. I am glad to know that it meets with your approbation. What I said in the course of my remarks was the result of my firm conviction as the result of many years observation and study. Thanking you for your personal reference to mys which are deeply appreciated, I am, Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.466 LFL. October 31, 1919 Mr. Frank W. Cheek, Tracy City, Tennessee. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 25th and under separate cover the card game "Capital and Labor." Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*467*] LFL. October 29th, 1919 Mr. John Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, Rooms 86-87 Bible House, New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Golden:- Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter addressed to President Gompers from Mr. Charles H. Leisenning, 230 Pine Street, Sunbury, Pa. I have written Mr. Leisenning telling him that I have sent copy of his letter to you and that you will communicate with him direct. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure.[*468*] Sunbury , Pa. October 23- 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington,D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Are you aware that you have an organizer at the persent time in Sunbury,Pa. who has a daughter working in the Susquehanna Silk Mill at Sunbury,Pa. which works are not partly disabled account of labor difficulties. This daughter living under the same roof eating from the same table and the organizer, I think making sufficient wages to provide for her until the present labor difficulties are settled. Also these goods from these mills are being shipped by Auto Trucks to N.Y. and ferried at Jersey City, unless they have been stopped lately. Please look after ........... Also, will you explain the difference between a walk-out and a strike, as I am Chairman of a committee of five men to meet the Supt. of converting works here "(in behalf of the Textile Workers here(" who have been unsuccessful in obtaining an audience with the same. If after a walkout, and they desire to return on old conditions, and do return and do no work only at their own machines,are they"Scabs? answer quick, Yours respectfully Charles H. Leisenring 230 Pine Street, Sunbury, Penna. P.S. The Organizer I refer to in the above, is Mr. M. E. Smith.[*469*] LFL. October 31, 1919 Mr. Manse M. Frankel, Secretary, The National Association of the Jewish Baking Industry, 51 Chambers Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 29th received and contents noted. Your letter deals with the conditions in industries controlled by Jewish trade unions. Permit me to advise you that I have referred your letter to Mr. Hugh Frayne, official representative of the American Federation of Labor in New York City, 1416 Broadway and suggest that you get in touch with him. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*470*] LFL. October 29th, 1919 Mr. Charles H. Leisenning, 230 Pine Street, Sunbury, Pa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 23rd. Inasmuch as your letter deals with matters properly coming under the jurisdiction of the United Textile Workers of America, I have sent a copy of it to Mr. John Golden, President of the United Textile Workers of America, Rooms 86-87 Bible House, New York, N.Y. and you will, no doubt, hear from him by early mail. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*471*] LFL. October 31st, 1919 Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 1416 Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Frayne:- Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter addressed to me by the secretary of the National Association of the Jewish Baking Industry, 51 Chambers Street, New York, N. Y. I have not made any reply other than to acknowledge its receipt and to say that I have referred it to you with the request for a report from you. I would appreciate your looking into the matter dealt with in the enclosed and give me the benefit of your advice and, if you deem it necessary or helpful,for you to have an interview with the writer. Hoping to hear from you ar your early convenience and with kind regards. I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*472*] LFL. October 29, 1919 Mr. Charles Warren Hunt, Secretary, American Society of Civil Engineers, 33 West 39th Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 27th received and contents noted. You extend to me an invitation to address the meeting of your society on November 19th, 1919 at 8:30 P.M. and you say that the subject for discussion will be proposed "Nationalization of Railroads." Permit me to advise you in reply that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor now has this entire subject under consideration. Until the Executive Council has formulated and declared its policy I am sure you will agree with me that it will not be advisable for me to undertake to discuss the subject and for the same reasons it will not be possible for me to accept your invitation to address the meeting of your society or to designate any representatives of the American Federation of Labor to speak for it. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*473*] LFL. October 31, 1919. Miss Nanette C. B. Shlatter, 1216 Eye Street, N.E. Washington, D. C. Dear Madam:- Your letter and the verses you enclose which has just been received touch me more than I can say. I have no other purpose in life than to serve my fellows to the very limit of my ability and when I am vafored with an expression of their sentiments toward me such as you convey in your letter, it is an incentive to still greater efforts in their behalf. To me Life is Service. If there is no service then there is nothing left. Sincerely Yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.474 WASHINGTON D C OCTOBER 31, 1919 MR MILTON SNELLINGS PRESIDENT INTERNATIONAL UNION OF STEAM & OPERATING ENGINEERS 823 D STREET S.W. WASHINGTON D C I WIRE TO MR NOONAN SUGGESTING CONFERENCE HERE NEXT WEEK HE WIRES REPLY THAT HE HAS ENGAGEMENTS WHICH HE CANNOT CANCEL MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR HIM TO BE HERE HE SUGGESTS CONFERENCE IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TO THE MEETING OF DECEMBER THIRTEEN PLEASE ADVISE ME IF THAT IS AGREEABLE TO YOU SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A F OF L475 LFL. October 31, 1919 Mr. J. H. Klase, County Organizer, Farmers' Society of Equity Snydertown, Pa. Dear Sir:- Your interesting letter of October 27th received and contents noted. It is very gratifying indeed to receive your letter and to know that you are so heartily and thoroughly in sympathy with the work of the organized labor movement. In view of what you say in your letter, you will no doubt be pleased to read a letter which has been addressed to the Executive Officers to the national and international unions affiliated to the American Federation of Labor inviting them to come to Washington for December 13th for an important conference. Copy of that letter is enclosed herein from which you will note that it is signed jointly by the Chiefs of the four railroad brotherhoods and that an invitation will be presented to the several Farmers' organizations to send representatives to that conference. Enclosed you will please find copy of the Reconstruction Program of the American Federation of Labor and a pamphlet "Why the Peace Treaty Should be Ratified" aswell as another pamphlet on the attitude of the American Federation of Labor toward the formation of the proposed political labor party. These matters are submitted to your thoughtful consideration. I shall be very glad to hear from you whenever convenient, Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President American Federation of Labor.[*476*] F October 31,1919. Sir: Urgent and immediate duties have made it impossible for me either to read or to reply to your letter at an earlier date. The scarcely veiled hostility and discourtesy of your letter caused me to hesitate as to the benefit of replying, for I have neither the time nor inclination to indulge in quibbling or in the pastimes of the old scholastics. However, it is due the cause I have the honor to represent to make this final effort to have my position correctly set forth. Passing over as immaterial to any real effort to reach a clear understand your discussion of the form of your question, let us get at the meat of theissue. Your letter of October ninth shows you asked a question dealing with a general principle which simply stated is: If Congress should enact legislation establishing compulsory arbitration and denying or limiting the right to strike, and if the Supreme Court should hold the legislation constitutional, would I advise fellow- workers to obey the law? I did not have the benefit of an official transcript of the hearing, either when writing on October ninth or now. But in order that there might be no doubt in your mind as to my position I restate that position as follows: "I now state to you that I hold and would, in the eventuality which you suggested, hold that no bill enacted by Congress, whether held by the courts to be constitutional or unconstitutional, will deprive free men of the right of giving their service or withholding it; and that no compulsory labor - slavery - can in this day and time be enacted and enforced." Your question was not a categorical preposition and could not be answered more briefly. If your purpose in taking part in the Congressional hearing on the Esch bill and in writing your letter of October ninth was to determine my position, you have it before you plainly and unequivocally. If your purpose was political in[*477*] -2- nature, it is hardly probable that any statement I could make would be satisfactory to you. Just a word as the panegyric you pronounce upon the members of the legal profession. There is no one who undervalues the high nature of the code of ethics developed for the legal profession. In other callings there exist equally effective codes of ethics, based on similar principles. Just as as moral coercion forbids a lawyer to desert his client, so the captain is the last to leave a sinking vessel. The crew will not leave while passengers are aboard. A locomotive engineer does not leave his engine until a terminal is reached. Elevator operators stay on duty till all are out of the burning building. Observation of daily happenings will show that men in these trades are even more scrupulous than lawyers in living up to their professional code. We all are too frequently pained by hearing of lawyers who do work that causes them to be classed as ambulance chasers or who use their legal ability to assist in evasion of law. No doubt your legal mind sees clearly the difference between voluntary adherence to an ethical code and the compulsion of statutory enactment. What was under discussion at the Congressional hearing was statutory legislation which in effect would deprive free workers of an inherent right. Now permit me to say that the record and the facts will demonstrate that I need not take second position even to you in my devotion and services to America, to the the United States. Perhaps it might not be amiss to repeat a quotation from one of my addresses which was published in the December 1918 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, as follows: "America is more than a country. America is more than a continent. America is more than a name. America is an ideal. America is the apotheosis of all that is right." Inasmuch as you have caused to be published in the Congressional Record my letter and your response, may I assume you will have the fairness to have this letter also published in the Record? Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Hon. J. Stanley Webster, Care House of Representatives, Washington, D.C.[*478*] Washington, D. C., October 31st, 1919 John L. Lewis Merchants Bank Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Upon request Attorney General Palmer granted a conference for Vice- President Woll, Secretary Morrison and me this afternoon. We protested against the application for and the issuance of a restraining order of injunction regarding the coal strike. We discussed the matter fully with the Attorney-General and the Solicitor-General. In addition, we presented to the fullest the whole situation. Finally Mr. Palmer said that he had had a personal conference with the President of the United States and that he gives the assurance that if the strike set for November first is deferred negotiations between the representatives of the United Mine Workers would be had with the Operators for the purpose of negotiating an agreement; that if an agreement was not reached, the President would appoint a commission of five to hear both parties and to render an award, the award to take effect as of November first. Of if it be preferred the President would appoint the commission tomorrow or within a few days thereafter to hear both sides and to render an award the same to go into effect as of November first. The Attorney-General urged the three of us to place this proposition before you for your serious consideration and action. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L.[*479*] WP November 1, 1919 Mr. Chas. S. Moore, Fort Pierce, Florida. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 18, setting forth a scheme for bettering labor conditions has been duly received. President Gompers has not had an opportunity of reading your letter, as his entire time is being taken up with vitally important matters and he has had little or no time to devote to his correspondence. However, your letter will be brought to his attention at the earliest possible time. Thanking you for your interest, I am Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers [*480*] EP November 1, 1919. Mr. C. S. Barrett, President Farmers' Educational & Cooperative Union of America, 1731 Eye St., N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- I beg to hand you herewith copy of a letter which I have just received, addressed to me by Mr. Paul Land, of Sapulpa, Oklahoma. He desires to get in touch with the State Farmers' Organization. I have advised him that his letter has been referred to you for your attention. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. encl[*481*] PAUL LAND. 327 Clayton Building, SAPULPA, OKLA., Oct. 30, 1919. Hon. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Honored Sir: For some time I have tried to get in touch with the local or State organization of the Farmers' Union, but have been unable and for this reason, I am asking whether or not I may be able to secure information from your office. I am anxious to get the farmers lined up in Creek County, and take some steps to organize Farmers Union, and also get in touch with the surrounding commercial clubs with reference to roads, and also pricing the farm products. My experience has been, that if I had anything from the farm to sell, the merchant price it; if I wanted to buy anything, the merchant priced it. My idea is that the farm products should be rated on a basis similar to rate by the Merchants; that is, the original cost of production, together with the labor and costs, which only the farmer knows; and still the privilege of placing a price is denied the producer. I believe the unionizing of farmers will go far toward stabilizing prices in the market if judiciously managed. If your office can see fit to give me the authority to organize such an organization, or else give me the name of the headwuarters of the state organization, I will appreciate same. Thanking you for the courtesies herein extended, I am, Respectfully, (Signed) Paul Land. [482] EP November 1, 1919. Rev. George Candee, M.A., 805 Oakwood Avenue, Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your open letter addressed to him, until such time as he may have the opportunity of giving it his personal attentation. He thanks you for writing but is so crowded just at present with vitally pressing and important matters that he is unable now to write you direct. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers[*483*] EP November 1, 1919. Dr. Robert W. S. Pegraer Gaston, North Carolina. Dear Sir:- President Gompers thanks you for your letter of October 29 which has been read with the greatest interest. He would write to you personally but his time at present is so crowded with vitally pressing and important matters that he can devote little or no time to his correspondence. He appreciates your letter and will be glad to hear from you at any time you may feel disposed to write. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*484*] NP November 1, 1919. Mr. Paul Land, 337 Clayton Building Sapulpa, Oklahoma. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 30 received and contents noted. I beg to advise that the question you deal with does not come under the jurisdiction of this office and your letter has been forwarded to Mr. C. S. Barrett, President, Farmers' Educational & Cooperative Union of America, 1731 Eye St., N.W., Washington, D. C. for his attention. You will no doubt hear from Mr. Barrett in the course of a few days. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*485*] ER November 1, 1919. Mr. Ron Schlattman, 4606 Alaska Avenue, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir:- President Gompers thanks you for your letter of October 22, which has been read with interest. He would write you personally, but his time at present is so crowded with vitally pressing and important matters that he can devote little or no time to his correspondence. He appreciates your letter and will be glad to hear from you at any time. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.488 Washington, D. C., November 1st, 1919 L. F. Marsal, Room 214, Hotel MacAlpin, New York, N.Y. Telegram received. Mr. Gompers' traveling secretary Mr. Oyster will be at Continental Hotel eleven o'clock Sunday morning. Please see him. R. Lee Guard, Secretary to Mr. Gompers. Charge A. F. of L.[*487*] Washington, D. C. November 1, 1919. James A. Duncan, Labor Temple, Seattle, Wash. In the case of controversy between Newsboys' Union and the Union Record of Seattle, the Executive Council at its recent meeting decided that the parties at interest in Seattle be advised that the Union Record should sign the contract which has been signed by the representatives of the other newspapers and that if there is injustice done by the corner distributors that the Central Body should endeavor to be helpful to both sides in adjusting the matter about which there is complaint. The Newsboys have been so notified and I ask that the Central Labor Council notify the Union Record. SAMUEL GOMPERS. (Charge A. F. of L.)[*488*] Washington, D. C. November 1, 1919. W. W. Percy, 101 Orpheum Building, Seattle, Wash. Telegram received. Have wired Secretary Suncan of the Central Labor Council of action taken by Executive Council in Newsboys Union case. SAMUEL GOMPERS. (charge A. F. of L.)[*489*] Washington, D. C. ,November 1, 1919. William H. Short, 402 Mutual Life Bldg., Seattle, Washington. Telegram received. Executive Council American Federation of Labor decided to call a conference of executives of affiliated national and international unions to be held at headquarters American Federation of Labor Washington, D.C., on the morning of December thirteenth. The Railroad Brotherhoods joined in the call. The representatives of the Farmers organizations have been invited to participate in that conference. Letter of invitation was sent out October Twenty eighth. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. OF L.[*490*] LFL. November 1st, 1919 Mr. William A. Wolfe, Care of Colliers & Son, 416 West Thirteenth Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Wolfe:- Mr. Oyster and Mr. Gompers will be in New York City at the Continental Hotel on Monday. I have given the following documents to Mr. Oyster: Mr. Gompers' testimony before the Senate Committee on Education and Labor in the investigation of the strike in the steel industries. Mr. Gompers' address to the Presidential Conference, October 22nd, 1919. Mr. Gompers' address to the Presidential Industrial Conference October 17th, 1919. Mr. Gompers' address in the Liberty Hut October 28th, 1919 on the occasion of the parade and reception given in his honor by organized labor of Washington, D. C. October 31st, Statement given to the press on the pending legislation on railroads as it affects Labor. October 31st, Statement given to the press on the Miners' strike. Resolution and propositions submitted by the Labor Group to the Presidential Industrial Conference. American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program. Why the Peace Treaty Should be Ratified Should a Political Labor Party Be Formed. It doesn't seem possible yet to arrange for an hour for you with Mr. Gompers. My suggestion is that you go over the above; make up your interview with Mr. Gompers from the above data and then send it on here and I will do my best to read it to him at the very earliest moment, I should think from the above that you could practically cover all of the points on the present situation which you would want to make in an interview with him. You will note I have marked some of the documents to be returned to me, because I have such great demand for them and I have491 -2- very few copies of the printed document. President Gompers' testimony before the Congressional Committee on the Cummins' Bill has not yet been published. Neither has his testimony before the Congressional Committee on the Meyers' Resolution been published, that is, dealing with the Policemen. I am sorry that I am not able to arrange for the interview as you requested but the demands upon Mr. Gompers' time just at the present are so tremendous by reason of the various etc. etc. that it is very difficult to crowd in any additional ones. If there is anything further that I can do to be of assistance, please advise me. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*492*] VLY October 31,1919. Mr. F. C. Smutzer, Community Service Corporation, 303 Metropolitan Apts., Lincoln, Nebraska. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 28th received and contents noted. Permit me to say in reply that during the course of the years there has been many commercial propositions submitted to the officers of the American Federation of Labor including propositions for special insurance companies. The American Federation of Labor, however, does not undertake to consider any such propositions no matter how meritorious they may be. I thank you for making the suggestion to me and appreciate your desires in the matter, but regret that I cannot offer you any encouragement. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of labor.[*493*] VLY November 1,1919. Mr. Louis Weyland, Chairman, Committee, Engineers vs. Electrical Workers, Room 15 Law Building, Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: In connection with the conference which is to be held on the subject of the Engineers - Electrical Workers dispute, I beg to advise that Acting President Noonan and President Snellings have advised me that a date immediately prior to the conference which has been called for December 13th, of the executives of the national and international unions, the Railroad Brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations, of which you have been notified, will be agreeable to them to meet with the special committee of five of which you are Chairman. May I suggest therefore, that you arrange with the members of the Committee and with Messrs Noon and Snellings for a day and hour mutually agreeable and convenient for the conference to be held at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, just prior to December 13th. Hoping to hear from you in regard to the above, I am with best wishes Fraternally yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*494*] LFL. November 1st,1919 Mr. Ephraim Cross, Member, Federal Employes' Union, 1430 N. Street, N. W. Washington, D.C. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 31st received and contents noted. May I suggest that you get in touch with Mr. Ernest Greenwood, New Navy Building, Washington, D. C. who is acting for the Department of Labor in assisting in the work of the International Labor Conference. If there is any opportunity for the employment of your services as interpreter, Mr. Greenwood is the official who would be able to place you. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*495*] LFL. October 31st,19 Mr. Isador Wallach, 3282 E 77th Street, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 29th addressed to the American Federation of Labor headquarters in New York City has been forwarded here to me for a reply. You say that you will shortly deliver an address on the American Federation of Labor and in which you will make special reference to the undersigned. You ask for data and printed matter to be helpful to you in the address. You enclose twelve cents in stamps for a reply. Enclosed you will please find list of pamphlets published by this office. As I am in doubt upon just which line you desire to prepare your address I hesitate just which pamphlets to send you. You should really have the American Federation of Labor History, Encyclopedia, Reference Book which you will note from the enclosed is listed at $3.00. Enclosed you will find American Labor Movement, Its Makeup, Achievements and Aspirations, a pamphlet which will give you much information. Also: Why the Peace Treaty Should be Ratified, By Samuel Gompers. American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program, The Eight Hour Workday, Its Inauguration, Enforcement and Influence. The following will give you biographical data regarding myself which has been published from time to time: Extracts from Men of Mark in America List of newspapers and magazines giving biographical sketches of myself. Extract from Biographical Encyclopedia of the U.S. Very truly yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. [*496*] F. Nov. 1, 1919. Mr. W. D. Mahon, President, Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America, #104 East High Street, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Mr. Mahon, Your interesting letter of October 30th reached Mr. Gompers just as he is leaving the city to keep important engagements in New York. He asked me acknowledge its receipt and to thank you for giving him the information you have as a result of your [?] at the Canadian Industrial Conference. It will be of help and value to him. We have the copy of the Canadian Governmental report of the conference [?ds] but as yet, as you surmised, President Gompers has not had the opportunity of looking it over. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. P.S. Dear Bill: I am taking the report on the train with me to read. [*Sam*]VLY October 31,1919. Mr. Victor T. Pierralee, Secretary, The Lyceum Bureau of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Ashland, Wisconsin. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 29th received and contents noted. You extend to me an invitation on behalf of the E[????] for organization of Cincinnati for me to deliver an address at the Eagles' Auditorium in that city some time during the month of January. It will be impossible for me to make an engagement so far in advance, for circumstances might arise in the meantime which would make it impossible for me to fulfill such an engagement. Let me suggest this to you: Mr. John P. Frey, Editor of the Iron Molders Journal, is located in Cincinnati, int the Commercial Tribune Building. You would find him a capable, interesting forceful speaker. He has a most interesting article in the current issue of the "Metropolitan Magazine". Why not invite him to address the Eagles in January? However, if you feel so disposed you might write me again in December regarding the matter. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.498 WCR:EJL November 1, 1919. Mr. H. G. Gue, Secretary, United Farm Organizations of Ia., Des Moines, Iowa. Dear Sir: Your letter telling of the "harmonious, well attended meeting of Iowa Farmers and Labor Unionists, held at Des Moines last August, resolved to cooperation and sit together in business and political matters", received. You also say: "Before very long the farmers of Iowa will be as well organized and equipped for self defense as your people already are, conditions now make such action absolutely necessary for self preservation. Our State Organization will gladly join you in any effort which can be agreed upon for the general good." This is most acceptable information. If the farmers and wage workers of this country are to preserve their rights, they must unite in the most practical way. The world is passing through a crisis and the victims are to be the farmers and labor. While organizations of farmers and of labor always have been necessary to protect their interests, there never was a time when the attempt to injure them has been so wide-spread and so determined. Labor wishes every success for the organizations of farmers and is pleased to know that they will cooperate with the trade union movement. With best wishes for yourself and the cause you represent, I remain, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.499 VLY November 1,1919. Dear Sir: In accordance with the understanding regarding technical or expert advisors, I beg to state that I have appointed Mr. Matthew Woll of Chicago, Illinois, to act in the capacity above stated. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Mr. H. B. Butler, General Secretary, Organization Committee, International Labor Conference, Navy Building, 19th & B Sts., Washington, D. C.[*500*] LFL. November 1st,1919 Mrs. E. B. Darby, 125 Washington Place, Apartment No. 33, New York, N.Y. Dear Madam:- Your letter of October 31st received and contents noted. The American Federation of Labor has a Branch Office in New York City, Mr. Hugh Frayne, 1416 Broadway, in charge. I would suggest that you confer with Mr. Frayne who might be able to be helpful to you in the matter which you present. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*501*] LFL November 1st, 1919 Mr. E. Meredith, Publisher, Successful Farming, Des Moines, Iowa. Dear Sir:- In President Gompers' name permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 28th together with clipping of interview you gave which was enclosed. He appreciates your sending this information to him and would write you personally but for the fact that his time is so wholly engrossed with the several international conferences now taking place in this city. Very truly your, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*502*] LFL. November 1st, 1919 Mr. George W. Lawson, Secretary-Treasurer, Minnesota State Federation of Labor, 75 West 7th Street, St. Paul, Minnesota. Dear Mr. Lawson:- Thank you for bringing to my attention the clipping from the ST PAUL PIONEER PRESS of October 28th entitled "Calls Labor Leaders Unfair; More Dangerous Than Jesse James, Says Scribe. Mr. Gompers will appreciate your courtesy in sending this information to him for otherwise it would have probably escaped his attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*503*] lfl. November 1st, 1919 Mr. T. J. Greer, President, Louisiana State Federation of Labor, 1026 Market Street, Shreveport, La. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 28th received and contents noted. I very greatly appreciate your writing and the sentiments you express. I am trying to the very best of my ability to serve my fellow citizens and my fellow workers and when I know that my efforts are understood and supported by my fellows, then, I am enabled to do just that much more in their behalf. Again thanking you for writing me and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*504*] Nov.1, 1919. Dr. Rupert Blue, Surgeon General, Public Health Service, Treasury Department, First St., N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Dr. Blue: Your letter of October 29th received and contents noted. Since I wrote you on the 23d circumstances have arisen which make it necessary for me to leave the city today. I hope to return late Tuesday but I find myself so situated in connection with the International Labor Congress and the International Federation of Trade Unions that it does not appear that I will be able to attend your meeting on either November 4 or 5. If I find on my return that I can make it I shall certainly be glad to do so. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.505 VLY November 3,1919. Mr. A. L. Howe, Secretary, Albert Lea Trades & Labor Assembly, 258 Pearl St., Albert Lea, Minnesota. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to thank you for your favor of October 29th, in which you give a copy of a resolution adopted by your organization in regard to the action taken by the Labor Group in withdrawing from the Industrial Conference. President Gompers would write to you personally but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to him. As you will have learned from the press reports, the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions, the Railroad Brotherhoods and the farmers' organizations, in the near future, for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.506 WESTERN UNION November 3,1919 Mr. Guy H. Oyster, Continental Hotel, New York City Mr. Gompers has partial engagement with Dr. Blue to address meeting on Tuesday or Wednesday. I wrote him that it seems very doubtful if Mr. Gompers could keep engagement. Mrs. Lansing will give you the correspondence Tuesday night when you and Mr. Gompers come to the office. Wednesday morning please notify Dr. Blue whether or not [if] Mr. Gompers will attend the meeting. R. Lee Guard. Charge A F of L507 VLY November 3, 1919. Mr. J. H. Allison, President, Local 352, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, Lee St., Des plains, Illinois. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to thank you for your favor of recent date, giving copy of a resolution adopted by your organization in regard to the action of the Labor Group in withdrawing from the Industrial Conference. The sentiments you convey were very gratifying to President Gompers. As you will have learned from the press reports the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has decided to call a conference in the near future of the executive officers of all affiliated national and international unions, the Railroad Brotherhoods and the farmers' organizations for the purpose of considering further the entire industrial situation and determining upon some concrete plan with which to meet it. President Gompers would write to you personally but for the fact that he is so very crowded with vitally pressing matters to which he must give his undivided attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.508 E. Nov. 3, 1919. Mr. Edward F. [?????] President North Manchester (College) North Manchester, Indiana Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 25th addressed to President Gompers was received asking for information to assist you in a forthcoming debate. I am enclosing herewith a list of literature furnished by the American Federation of Labor and I believe that any of the literature listed will be helpful to you in preparing your argument. If you desire any of the literature kindly let me know and your order will be promptly filled. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.509 F Nov. 3, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Continental Hotel, 41st & Broadway, New York City. Dear Mr. Gompers: Mr. Morrison instructed me to quote to you the following telegram just received: "Indianapolis, Ind. Nov. 1, 1919. Samuel Gompers, A.F. of L. Bldg., Care American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Your message October thirty first received. Proposal embraced therein is identical with similar propositions which have heretofore been rejected by US surely you appreciate reasons which prompt us in our position in this matter. Machinery of our joint system of bargaining in coal industry has not been exhausted. Negotiations if reopened under proper conditions would bring immediate settlement.If government of United States desires such settlement it would arrange with operators to negotiate under proper conditions restraining order issued by United States court on officers of miners organization has destroyed functions of our organization. The first essential stop towards a settlement should be action by Government vacating this restraining order. Under provisions of order it is impossible for us to communicate with representatives or members of United Mine Workers. It will even be impossible to assemble conference to consider possible settlement as long as this order remains in effect this communication to you may even place me in violation of restraining order." J. L. Lewis." Very truly yours, Clerk.510 F Nov. 3,1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Continental Hotel, 41st & Broadway, New York City. Dear Mr. Gompers: Mr. Morrison instructed me to quote to you the following cablegram just received: "San Juan, P.R., Nov. 1, 1919. Samuel Gompers AFEL Washington. According with instructions received from International Longshoremen President O'Connor all longshoremen unions this island anxiously hope their demands handed Porto Rico Lines will be considered part of any agreement to settle pending longshoremen strike of New York. Porto Rico Longshoremen want to be a part [in?] any proposals of agreement with Steamship Companies trafficing with this Island. We believe it inhuman if longshoremen of Porto Rico are not considered into any proper settlement when such companies are getting their profits from the Porto Rico poor people. Longshoremen unions of Porto Rico in meeting assembly earnestly request you to intervene to cause islanders workers may obtain similar benefits or other- wise that our continental brothers may get. Request your immediate answer with instructions. Diego Baez, Julio Aybar, Longshoremen Insular Council, Santiago Iglesias, Organizer A.F. of L. Sub "to Correction." Very truly yours, Clerk.[*511*] RnP October 30, 1919. Mr. John Scott, Secretary-Treasurer, Railway Employes Depart, A. F. of L., Rooms 505-6 A. F. of L. Building, Wash. D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I have copy of the letter that was sent to Mr. A.O. Wharton by J. C. Shanessy. I desire to say that we have had several letters on this subject, and we are going to endeavor to be of some assistance in the campaign that they are carrying on. Yours fraternally, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.512 RmP October 30, 1919 Mr. J. A. Zinmar, The Convention Reporting Company, 32 Union Square, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir: The International Labor Conference convened at the pan-American building on October 29th. The representatives are here as a result of an invitation extended by President Wilson. The fact that the peace treaty has not been ratified by the Senate prevents the representatives of the United States from being officially present. The transcribing of the proceedings is evidently taken care of by the representatives of the respective governments in attendance. A conference has been held of the members of unions of the various countries that are in attendance at the international conference. The call for the conference was issued by the officers of the International Federation of Trade Unions. We had an informal meeting last night, and it was exceedingly interesting. I do not believe that there will be any minutes taken of the debate that will transpire as a result of the conferences that will be called from time to time by the officers of the International Federation of 513 Mr. J. A. Zinmar -2- Trade Unions to discuss proposition that will be considered by the International Labor Conference, hence there will be no opportunity for the services of an official stenographer. Very truly yours, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.514 RmP October 30, 1919 Mr. W. C. Birthright, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 307 Second Avenue, North, Nashville, Tennessee. Dear Sir and Brother: I am glad to have your memorandum in regard to what the members of organized labor, and some of the public, are saying in regard to the withdrawal of the trade unionists from the President's Industrial Conference when the employers had demonstrated that they did not favor collective bargaining with the employes represented by representatives of their own choosing. I also note your other comments in regard to the work you are doing. Everything seems to be moving along very nicely here with many awkward situations receiving a great deal of public attention that must soon be adjusted. Yours fraternally, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.515 RmP October 30, 1919. Mr. J. J. Forrester, President, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Attached herewith is copy of a telegram received from Organizer H. M. Barry, of Charleston, S. C., which I am sending for your information. Yours fraternally, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.516 POSTAL ---- TELEGRAPH (COPY) CHARLESTON S C \OCT 29 FRANK MORRISON A F OF L BLDG WASHN D C CEASER SCOTT MEMBER SIXTEEN THREE TWENTY FOUR ANKLE CRUSHED ON JOB AT A C L YARD JULY TWENTY FIFTH TWO MONTHS IN HOSPITAL STILL UNABLE TO WALK MR DAVIS COMPANYS ATTORNEY STATES COMPANY NOT LIABLE BUT WILL GIVE HIM A LITTLE CHANGE AS A PRESENT WHEN ABLE TO COME HIS OFFICE IS THERE ANY JUSTICE THAT CAN BE SECURED THROUGH YOUR OFFICE OR MUST HE ENGAGE LEGAL ADVICE. ANSWER AT ONCE COLLECT. E M BARRY 517 RmP October 30, 1919. Mr. James B. Mahan 424 Law Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. My dear Mr. Mahan, The International Labor Conference convened at the pan-American building on October 29th. The representatives are here as a result of an invitation extended by President Wilson. The fact that the peace treaty has not be ratified by the Senate prevents the representatives of the United States from being officially present. The transcribing of the proceedings is evidently taken care of by the representatives of the respective governments in attendance. A conference has been held of the members of the unions of the various countries that are in attendance at the international conference. The call for the conference was issued by the officers of the International Federation of Trade Unions. We had an informal meeting last night and it was exceedingly interesting. I do not believe that there will be any minutes taken of the debate that will transpire as a result of the conference that will be called from time to time by the officers of the International Federation of Trade [*518*] Mr. James B. Mahan -2- Union to discuss propositions that will be considered by the International Labor Conference, hence there will be no opportunity for the services of an official stenographer. Yours very truly, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor.519 RmP October 30, 1919. Mr. John Fitzpatrick, Chairman, National Committee for Organizing Iron and Steel Workers, 303 Magee Building, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dear Sir and Brother: In accordance with instructions of President Gompers I herewith enclose check for $2400.00 which has been received for the purpose of assisting in carrying on the work for the relief of the Iron and Steel workers on strike. Yours fraternally, Frank Morrison Secretary American Federation of Labor. Enclosure520 VLY November 1,1919. DOCUMENT NO.74. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: Your attention is called to the fact that Treasurer Tobin, in a letter just received, expresses the opinion that the international union and the Railroad Brotherhoods invited to the conference December 13th, should be limited to two representatives. In the call which I issued in the name of the Executive Council I said: "You are earnestly urged to attend the conference in person, and thereby give the most effective and responsible expression of the needs to meet the situation." Of course we want the conference to take place in the Executive Council Room of the American Federation of Labor, and the seating capacity of that room is about two hundred and thirty or two hundred and forty. Please advise me whether in your judgment an additional notice should be sent out to the international union officers asking whether the organization shall be represented by one of its Executive Officers or whether it shall be limited to two. Kindly give this matter your prompt attention and reply, and oblige Yours fraternally, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.521 HMW. Oct. 31, 1919. Mr. Charles McCarthy, Director, National Agricultural Organization Society, Legislative Reference Library, Madison, Wisconsin. Dear Sir and Brother:- The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in conjunction with the four railroad brotherhoods which are as yet unafilliated to the American Federation of Labor, has issued a call to the executives of the affiliated national and international unions to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C., at ten o'clock on the morning of December 13th. The representatives of the several Farmers' Organizations who are located here in this city participated in a conference with the officers of the A.F. of L. and the railroad brotherhoods when the matter of calling the conference on December 13th was considered. While expressing their sympathy with the purposes of the conference, yet, they thought that they did not have the authority to join in the call for the conference. They advised us that the conventions of the sever organizations of Farmers would be held within the next thirty days. It was thereupon unanimously agreed that a formal invitation should be extended to you and through you to your convention to have the American Society of Equity suitably represented in the conference on December 13th and it is both my duty and my pleasure to extend that invitation. The conference will consider the critical situation in the industrial and legislative field and endeavor to agree upon fundamental principles and the adoption of a program which all will accept in performing their duties as citizens and at the same time maintain the right of free men in order to conserve human interests and welfare. Among the subjects to be discusses is not only cooperation between the farmers' organizations and the organizations of workers in industry and transportation, but also the cooperation in selling of products produced by the farmers and the purchase of products necessary to farmers. I most earnestly hope that your organization will consider favorably the invitation above extended and that 522 at the earliest possible moment advising me of your acceptance. With assurance of my high regard, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.523 J.W. Pincus, Federation of Jewish Farmers' of America, 174-2nd Avenue, New York, N, Y. J.H. Kimble, President, Farmers' National Congress, Fort Deposit, Md. Chas. W. Holman, National Conference on Marketing and Farm Credits, 230 So. LaSalle Street, Chicago, Ills. W.T. Creasy, Chairman, National Dairy Union, Catawissa, Penna. Milo D. Campbell, National Milk Producers' Federation, Coldwater, Mich. Gifford Pinchot, President, Pennsylvania Rural Progress Association, Milford, Pa. E.M. Sweitzer, Farmers' Society of Equity, Shippenville, Pa. C.G. Patterson, Intermountain Farmers' Association, 306 Judge Building, Salt Lake City, Utah. John A. McSparren, Master, Pennsylvania State Grange, Furniss, Pa. The attached letter was also sent to the above. Oct. 31,1919.524 LL November 4, 1919. Mr. Charles Taylor Perry, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 1285, Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 27th received and contents noted. You make report on the strike of the Gas Workers' Union No. 15741 and the Seattle Lighting Company. I am pleased to note that you will endeavor to get a conference with the management and aid the union so far as may be possible. I sincerely trust that you will be successful in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of this matter. Please advise me of the final outcome of same. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*525*] LL November 4, 1919. Mr. Thomas L. Clancy, President, Federal Labor Union No. 16350, 422 Romeo St., Stratford, Ontario. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to advise you that the wage scale submitted by your local for the approval of the Executive Council was placed before that body and the same approved. This approval carries with it the authorization of your union to go out on strike, if necessary, in order to maintain your position, and your members thereby be entitled to benefits from the defense fund, in accordance with Sections 4 and 5 of Article 13 of the Constitution. I sincerely trust, however, that it will not be necessary for your organization to have recourse to the extreme measure of going out on strike, and I want to take this opportunity of expressing the hope that no action will be taken without the matter being given careful consideration. I also trust that you will keep me advised fully just what is done, and the results achieved. Please continue to advise and counsel with Organizer R[?]ett and guard against any ill-advised action. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*526*] LL November 4, 1919. Mr. He[??]y Noe, Financial Secretary, Window Glass Snappers' Union No. 15435, 907 Franklin St., Sandusky, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 1st received and I thank you for sending me copy of the wage agreement which your local secured with the Erie Window Glass Company. You failed to state, however, the date this wage scale went into effect and when same will terminate. Kindly give me this information. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.527 LL November 4, 1919. Mr. L. E. Williams, President, Central Trades and Labor Council, c/o Harry L. Marsalie, Box 267, Bogalusa, Louisiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you, under date of October 31st, I am enclosing herewith copy of letter I have just received from the Department of Labor, in which they advise that Commissioner of Conciliation G. Y. Harry has been assigned to take up the matter affecting the members of the Sawyer and Filers Union No. 16723 by the Great Southern Lumber Company. I sincerely trust that Commissioner Harry will be successful in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of this matter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*528*] COPY DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary, Washington. November 1, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Gompers: This is to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 31st ultimo, with the accompanying copies of communications from Mr. L. E. Williams, President of the Central Trades and Labor Council, at Bogalusa, Louisiana, relative to the strike of employee o the Great Southern Lumber Company at that place. The Department has assigned Commissioner of Conciliation G. Y. Harry to take up this matter and endeavor to bring about a satisfactory adjustment of the same. He will confer with Mr. Williams upon his arrival at Bogalusa. Very truly yours, (Signed) H. L. KERWIN, Assistant to the Secretary.529 LL November 4, 1919. Mr. H. L. Kerwin, Assistant to the Secretary, Department of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Kerwin: I thank you for your letter of November 1st and the information contained therein. I am transmitting same to President Williams of the Central Trades and Labor Council, at Bogalusa, Louisiana. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*530*] LL November 4, 1919. Mr. Frank McCarthy, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 30 Wheatland Ave., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith you will please find copy of letter received from F. R. Williamson, Jr., Recording Secretary of the Fish Handlers' Union No. 15773. I wish you would let me have your advice in this matter before I make reply to Secretary Williamson. You will recall advising me under date of August 23rd that a satisfactory settlement of their strike was reached and that the local had won the principal in which they went on strike. Awaiting your reply, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*531*] COPY FISH HANDLERS' UNION NO. 15775 Boston, Oct. 29, 1919. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secty. A. F. of L. Dear Brother: At the last meeting of this local held October 26, 1919, I was instructed to make inquiries why our union had not been paid the strike benefits due our Bros. While out for a period of seven weeks, during the Fishermens Union of the Atlantic strike. As I understand, this was to have been given your kind attention some time ago, but realize the great amount of work being done and yet to be performed, has a great deal to do with such matters. Will you at your earliest convenience inform me in regards to this, so that I may make report at our next meeting. Thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally your Bro., (Signed) F. R. WILLIAMSON, Jr., Rec. Secty, F. H. Union. 8 Meridian Parkway, Malden, Mass.532 LL November 4, 1919. Mr. Jon A. Flett, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 195 Sherman Ave., S. Hamilton, Ontario. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter I have just written to President Clancy, of Federal Labor Union No. 16350, notifying them that their wage scale was submitted to the Executive Council and same approved. Please continue to assist the union in the enforcement of their scale and advise me the final outcome of the matter. With kind regards and thanking you for the assistance you have given this union, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.533 F Nov. 5, 1919. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 1st instant received and contents noted. Todate we have not received a contract from the Waterhouse Company of Seattle, Washington. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. EDITOR,AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.534 F Nov. 5,1919. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 31st ultimo received and the following contracts are hereby accepted: W.H. Graham & Company, 1/4 page, $600.00, one year. Will start with January 1920. N.K. Fairbanks Company, 1 year, 1/2 page, $1000.00. Will start with December 1919 issue. Hess Bright Mfg. Company, 1/4 page, $600.00, one year, Will start with January 1920. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. EDITOR,AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.535 F Nov. 5,1919. Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Ave., New York City. Dear Sir: Enclosed you will please find change in advertisement of the Hero Manufacturing Company . Their contract expired with the September 1919 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, and we have not received a renewal. Kindly let me hear from you in regard to the above, and oblige Yours very truly, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. EDITOR,AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.536 Nov. 5,1919. Messrs. Strauss & Buegeleisen, 438 Broadway, New York City. Gentlemen: Under date of October 29th we received one cut to be used for your advertisement in the December 1919 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Thanking you for your patronage, I am Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. EDITOR,AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.537 F Nov. 5,1919. The Medbury Ward Company, Toledo, Ohio. Gentlemen: A few days ago we received six cuts to be used for the advertisement of the Federal Rubber Company in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. EDITOR,AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST.LFL. October 31st, 1919 Mr. L. E. Sheppard, Chief Order of Railroad Conductors of America, Cedar Rapids, Iowa Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you'll please find carbon copy of a circular letter which has been issued to all organized labor regarding the situation arising out of the pending Cummins' Bill. I hope that you will see your way clear to reprint the enclosed and send to each local branch of your brotherhood or if not that, we would be very glad to send it out direct from this office if you will furnish us with a list of names. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.538 LFL. October 31st, 1919 Mr. W. G. Lee, Chief Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you'll please find carbon copy of a circular letter which has been issued to all organized labor regarding the situation arising out of the pending Cummins' Bill. I hope that you will see your way clear to reprint the enclosed and send to each local branch of your brotherhood or if not that, we would be very glad to send it out direct from this office if you will furnish us with a list of names. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.539 LFL. October 31st, 1919 Timothy Shea, Chief Brother of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, 901 Guardian Building, Cleveland, Ohio Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find carbon copy of a circular [?] which has been issued to all organized labor regarding the situation [?ing] out of the pending Cummins' Bill. I hope that you will see your way clear to reprint the [?] and send to each local branch of your brotherhood or [?] not that, we should be very glad to send it out direct from [?] office if you will furnish us with a list of names. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*540*] LFL. Octob Mr. Warren E. Stone, Chief, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, B. of [?] Building, Cleveland, Ohio Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you'll please find carbon copy of a circular which has been issued to all organized labor regarding the s arising out of the pending Cummins' Bill. I hope that you will see your way clear to rep enclosed and send to each local branch of your brotherhood if not that, we would be very glad to send it out direct f this office if you will furnish us with a list of names. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation o Enclosure.541 Washington, D.C., Nov. 6, 1919. Mr. Albert J. Kugler, 156 Grant Ave., Jersey City, New Jersey. Please let me have at once answer to my letter of October fourteenth relative to standing of Corn Products Refining Company with your organization. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A.F. of L.[*542*] [?] 4, 1919 Mr. W. [?] Federal [?] [?] Dear Sir: [?][*543*] LL November 5, 1919. Miss Louisa Wilson, Secretary Fruit Workers' Union No. 16688, General Delivery, Fresno, Calif. Dear Madam: I beg to acknowledge receipt of copy of your rules and bylaws which reached this office on November 3rd. I note the copy of your wage scale which you submit with your bylaws. I would be pleased to receive copy of your wage scale for our files, also for you to advise me if you local was successful in putting this scale into effect. Of course you are familiar with the fact that we do not submit wage scales to the Executive Council for their consideration until a local is in affiliation for one year, for the reason that in case of strike or lockout in the enforcement of your scale, the members of your local would not be entitled to financial assistance, because they have not been affiliated one year, charter having been issued in August, 1919. Kindly let us hear from you further regarding this scale. Further reply to the bylaws of your local will be made. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.544 LL November 4, 1919. Mr. J. S. Smith, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 106 W. Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 30th received and contents noted. You give report on the strike of the members of the Federal Labor Union No. 16191, of Evanston, and enclose a list of names whom you state are entitled to benefits if Section 2 of Article 13 of the Consti- tution of the American Federation of Labor was carried out. I also note your statement that upon investigation you found the men struck in sympathy with the other organized workers in the steel industry, not with the intention of ignoring or casting aside any of the laws of the Federation. Their action in failing to first submit the matter to the Federation was through a misunderstanding, they be- lieving that they were included in the call to strike on September 22nd, inasmuch as the strike was ordered by the National Committee affecting all unions in the industry. Let me say, in reply, that I am submitting your report to the members of the Executive Council for their consideration and I will advise you just as soon as a decision on same has been reached. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.545 LL November 5, 1919. Mr. P. B. Dexter, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 16896, Box 251, Rupert, Idaho. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of copy of your rules and bylaws which reached this office on November 3rd. I note the copy of your wage scale which you submit with your bylaws. I would be pleased to receive copy of your wage scale for our files, also for you to advice me if local was successful in putting this scale into effect. Of course you are familiar with the fact that we do not submit wage scales to the Executive Council for their consideration until a local is in affiliation for one year, for the reason that in case of strike or lockout in the enforcement of your scale, the members of your local would not be entitled to financial assistance, because they have not been affiliated one year, charter having been issued in August, 1919. Kindly let me hear from you further regarding this scale. Further reply to the bylaws of your local will be made. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.546 Nov. 6, 1919. Mr. Wm. A. Spooner, Secretary, Central Labor Council, Labor Temple, Oakland, California. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 29th addressed to Secretary Morrison has been handed to me for reply. You enclose copy of a label which you say has been adopted by the Casket Makers Union of Alameda County, endorsed by the Central Labor Council and submitted to the A. F. of L for its endorsement. Permit me to advise you that in the laws of the A. F. of L. directly affiliated local unions are required to use the Union label of the A. F. of L. and are not permitted to use a separate label of their own choice. For a number of years the directly affiliated local unions were permitted to adopt union labels as their best judgment warranted subject to the approval of the Executive Council. A great deal of confusion, friction and trouble resulted. Therefore, the A. F. of L. decided that the directly affiliated local unions would be required to use one of the union labels of the A. F. of L. I regret, therefore, that under these circumstances the label adopted by the Local Union 16325 not only cannot be approved by the A. F. of L but the union will be required to discontinue the use of that label and to use the label of the A. F. of L. Hoping to hear from you further at your early convenience and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.547 November 6, 1919. Mr. Samuel Crowther, Bayside, Long Island, N. Y. My dear Mr. Crowther: When your letter of November 3rd was received I was absent from the city on official business. This is the first opportunity I have had to reply. You say that "World's Work" has asked you to "examine into the amount of revolutionary radicalism there really is in this country," and you request that I should assist you in securing the data you seek. Do you anticipate coming to Washington any time soon? If so, I should be glad to have you come to the office at a time when I could arrange for half an hour with you. For it would be more advantageous to talk the matter over than to attempt to discuss it by letter. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.548 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. C. L. Shamp, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, 3315 North 24th St., Omaha, NEBR. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find herein copy of a communication received today from Mr. J. S. Shannon, Box 307, Marshall, Texas. I would appreciate your writing to the above party, giving him full information as you will note that he writes that he is being barred from joining the Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen and Oilers because of his color. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.549 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. J. S. Shannon, Box 207 Marshall, TEXAS. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 29th received and contents noted. I am today communicating with Secretary C. L. Shamp of the International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, [??]15 North 24th Street, Omaha, Nebraska, asking that he write you direct relative to your complaint. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.550 November 6, 1919. Atlantic City, N. J. Mr. [?]al Wyatt, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Colonial Hotel, Hagerstown, Md. Dear Mr. Wyatt: Your letter of November 3rd was forwarded to me to the above address. I think it is quite probable that we have an extra copy of the Washington Post of October 29th at headquarters. I have requested one of the clerks to send copy to you, but if we have only one copy, to clip out the story regarding the parade and demonstration in Mr. Gompers honor and send to you, with the understanding that you return it to me for my records. Neither the Post nor any of the other papers did more than publish brief extracts from his address, but the address was reported stenographically and it may later be published. If it is, I could very easily send a copy to you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.551 Nov. 6, 1919. WHEN REPLYING PLEASE REFER TO RESOLUTION 105. Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of October 23rd regarding Resolution 105, enclosed you will please find copy of letter which I have received from Honorable Newton D. Baker, Secretary of War. Just as soon as I receive any further information upon this matter, I will immediately advise you. Hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.552 November 6, 1919. Mr. Wm. M. Short, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 508 Maynard Building, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Recently I received a letter from the Central Labor Council of Everett, Washington, requesting the revocation of the commission as Organizers for the A. F. of L. held by E. P. Marsh, A. C. Garner, and John Campbell upon the ground that Mr. Marsh is now in Washington in the Government service, Mr. Garner is the proprietor of a shingle mill and Mr. Campbell in "charge of a fish hatchery in Oregon." Before taking any action upon the matter I should appreciate your advice. Hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*553*] Nov. 6, 1919. Mr. F. A. Flinn, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, R. R. No. 1, Three Rivers, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: When I wrote you on October 22nd at the same time I wrote to Mr. A. E. King, Secretary of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen and sent him copy of your letter to me of October 19th. In his reply he says: "This will acknowledge your letter of the 22nd inst., LKL, with a copy of a letter you had received from Mr. Forest A. Flinn, Three Rivers, Mich., which is in reference to some person by the name of Marshall. Owing to the fact that that is a very common name I would be unable to locate him, even if he is a member of the Brotherhood unless supplied with his Christian name or names. If such can be supplied, I will be very glad to investigate and if we find him to be a member of the Brotherhood will refer the matter to Brother Lee, our President." If you can give me any further and more detailed information regarding Mr. Marshall, I shall be very glad to take the matter up further with the officers of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. Hoping to hear from you further at your convenience and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.554 Nov. 6, 1919. Mr. O. P. Green, Lewistown, Montana. Dear Sir: Replying to your letter of October 29th, I regret not being able to give you the information you request. So far as I know there is no record anywhere of the hour of Mr. Gompers' birth. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.555 November 6, 1919. Miss Ruby M. Balnap, Assistant Secretary, Washington State Federation of Labor, Seattle, Washington, Dear Madam: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of October 29th in which you enclose copy of letter written by Mr. W. M. Short, President, Washington State Federation of Labor to the Editor of the Post Intelligencer, and to thank you for sending the matter to him. He would write to Mr. Short personally but for the very great pressure of other important matters requiring his immediate and undivided attention. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.556 Nov. 6, 1919. Mr. M. B. Chase, Marion, Ohio. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter written at Heelyville, Missouri, on November 1st which deals with the strike of the United Mine Workers of America, and to say to you that your letter has been referred to the officers of the mining department of the A. F. of L. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.557 Nov. 5, 1919. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America, 222 E. Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your two letters of October 24th and 27th received and contents noted. I had already received letter from the Central Labor Union of Tacoma, Washington, withdrawing the commission held by Mr. Chas. B. Taylor. In reply I stated: "Our records show that Mr. Taylor has held a commission as organizer for the A. F. of L since February 25, 1909, and he was appointed upon the recommendation of the Washington State Federation of Labor as organizer for the state of Washington and that on February 26, 1913 upon the renewal of his commission it was for organizer for the United States. Copy of your letter will therefore, be submitted to the Washington State Federation of Labor. In the meantime, I request that you submit in detail the reasons why the Central Labor Council has taken the action it has in the matter of requesting that Mr. Taylor's commission be annulled 'for conduct unbecoming a member of the American labor movement.'" At the same time I also wrote to President Short of the Washington State Federation of Labor and am now awaiting a reply. You can therefore understand that the entire matter is receiving my careful attention. Thanking you for writing me as fully as you have and for sending me the copy of the letter addressed to you by your Tacoma Union. With best regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*558*] November 5, 1919. Hon. Francis E. Warren, United States Senate, Washington, D. C. Dear Senator: Your letter of the 4th instant, with enclosure just to hand. While I have always been and still am willing and anxious to do everything within my power to aid in an honorable, mutually satisfactory adjustment of the coal strike, I have absolutely no right or authority to advise Mr. Martin Cahill, President, United Mine Workers, District 22, Rock Springs, Wyoming, to order the miners back to work in his district pending negotiations. Ordinarily, such a request might be acted upon by the executive officers of the National or International Union affected, in this case, President Lewis of the United Mine Workers of America, but he is now so hemmed about by the injunction issued against him that I am not sure that even he will be able to comply with the suggestion. I thank you, however, for your interest in the matter and trust that the efforts now being made will result in an early adjustment of the entire matter. Very truly, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.559 VLY Washington, D. C., November 5, 1919. Send the following telegram to this list of names. James Duncan, 25 School Street, Quincy, Mass. Jos. F. Valentine, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Frank Duffy, Carpenters Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. W. D. Mahon, 204 East High St., Detroit, Michigan. T. A. Rickert, Morrison Hotel, Chicago, Illinois. Jacob Fischer, 222 East Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. D. J. Tobin, 222 East Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. In view of critical labor situations in the judgment of Vice President Woll Secretary Morrison and myself requiring immediate consideration and action of Executive Council, under authority of Section Four Article Six of Constitution of American Federation of Labor I invite the members of the Executive Council to meet in American Federation of Labor Building at Washington ten thirty o'clock Sunday morning November nine, nineteen hundred and nineteen. Members of Executive Council are strongly urged to be in attendance. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. OF L.560 VLY WASHINGTON, D. C., November 7,1919. In compliance with the direction of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, President Gompers, Vice-President Woll and Secretary Morrison had consultation with Secretary Treasurer Flaherty of the Federation of Postal Employes upon the subject matter of the application for change of title from that given to the National Federation of Post Office Clerks. Mr. Flaherty's attention was called to the fact that the change of title would limit the jurisdiction of his organization to the clerks in the post office. Mr. Flaherty replied that he and his associated were fully aware of this and that it was the intention of the organization, under its new title, to confine its jurisdiction to the clerks of the post offices. Therefore, in compliance with the direction of the Executive Council, and upon the explanation above made, the charter will be issued to the organization under its new title NATIONAL FEDERATION OF POST OFFICE CLERKS. Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Matthew Woll Vice-President American Federation of Labor. Frank Morrison Secretary, American Federation of Labor. Thos. F. Flaherty Secretary-Treasurer National Federation of Post Office Clerks.561 LAS:AS November 3,1919. Mr. George Larkimar, President Central Labor Union, Sturgis, MICHIGAN. 30th October Ancil Weaver Sturgis and vicinity. Sturgis Saml Gompers.562 LAS:AS. November 3, 1919/ Mr. George Haukins, Secretary Pro-tem Twin City Federation of Labor, Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. October 23rd J. W. Dunn Urbana, Champaign and vicinity Urbana-Champaign Saml Gompers.563 LAS:AS November 3, 1919. Mr. H. E. Mason, Secretary-Treasurer Central Labor Union, P.O.Box 342, Anniston, ALA. October 15th Jessie N. Andrews Anniston and vicinity. Anniston Saml Gompers.[*564*] EP November 7, 1919. DOCUMENT NO. 75. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR, COLLEAGUES:- Enclosed you will please find copy of letter addressed to me by Mr. Anthony J. Oliver, President of the International Federation of Technical Engineers, Architects and Draftsmen's Unions, in which as you will note he makes application for the approval of the stamp which has been adopted by his organization to be used as the Union Stamp of that Union. The question submitted to the Executive Council for a vote is: "Shall the stamp of the International Federation of Technical Engineers, Architects and Draftsmen's Unions be approved by the Executive Council?" Please return your vote upon the above and oblige. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. encl[*565*] EP November 7, 1919. Mr. J. P. Noonan, Acting President, Int'l. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 406-18 Reisch Bldg., Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother:- On November 3rd I received a letter from the System Federation #14 of the Railway Employes Department of the A.F. of L., Palestine, Texas, regarding the strike of the telephone operators of that city. The matter was immediately submitted to Secretary Scott of the Railway Employes Department who in his reply, says: "Inasmuch as the correspondence has been referred to this office I presume for the purpose of identifying the writer, desire to say that Mr. W. B. Graham is the duly authorized General Chairman of the Federated Shop Trades, elected to represent the members of all affiliated crafts in the employ of the International Great Northern R.R. "Hoping that it will be possible for President Gompers to extend his good influence and efforts in bringing about a satisfactory adjustment of the controversy." I am enclosing to you herewith the letter addressed to me by Mr. Graham together with the enclosure. You will note that he requests that the matter of the strike of the telephone operators should be brought to the attention of the Department of Justice and that the Department be requested to send a representative to Palestine to make an investigation of the situation. I feel quite a hesitancy in taking such a step until I have had your advice. It is needless for me to assure you that I shall be glad to be helpful in any way within my power. I am sending you the original letter and ask that you return it with your reply. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, A.F. OF L. encl[*566*] HMW:WCR. Nov. 4, 1919. Mr. L.R. Bangs, Bakers' Union, Local No. 17 777 S. 5th St., Columbus, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter containing constitution and by-laws of the Columbus Federation of Labor received. You ask for their approval. In Article 1 of the constitution, the words "affiliated with the American Federation of Labor" have been included. Article 4, under Duties of Officers, an amendment has been added to section 4 providing that the Financial Secretary-Treasurer shall give a bond in a Security Company "through the American Federation of Labor. Unbecoming conduct is stricken out of Section 2 of Article 13. It is superfluous. With these corrections your constitution will be approved. It is returned to you with this letter. With best wishes for yourself and the success of your organization, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Encl.567 Nov. 4,1919. Mr. W. A. Hoag, 59 West 36th Street, New York City. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 29th ultimo received and contents noted. I have referred copy of same to Mr. Hugh Frayne, New York Representative of the American Federation of Labor, [?]416 Broadway, New York City, with the request that he get in touch with you in regard to this matter. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.568 F Nov. 4,1919. Mr. Hugh Frayne, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 1416 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: You will please find enclosed herein copy of a letter from Mr. W.A. Hoag, 59 West 36th St., New York City, which is self-explanatory. I have advised him that the matter has been referred to you for attention, and no doubt you would write to him direct in regard to this matter. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[*569*] COPY F. 52 West 36th St., New York, 10/28/19. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: I appeal to you in behalf of people in clerical positions and department store help. Conditions with them are becoming almost unbearable and a few individual cases brought to my attention are pathetic. As you know living expenses have increased 50 to 120% the past three years and I believe it has just been determined that the purchasing power of a dollar is at present 43 cts. as compared with 3 years ago, and Department store employes have in the majority of cases received no advance in salary and those that have it has only been on the average of 10 to 20%. They seem so helpless in the matter; they are not organized at all, they have been unable to save anything out of their salaries so they can ill afford to run the risk of being out of employment with no assistance for the support of their families so they fear to organize for fear of being thrown out, as was the case a few years ago when they attempted to organize the stores discharged all those who had anything to do with it so it frightened the rest so they have been afraid to try it again. It occurs to me that they should have the sympathy and assistance of outside help and that organizers outside should help them work up an organization otherwise I do not know what in the world is going to become of them. Yours very truly, (Signed) W. A. Hoag. The large New York Dept. Stores each employ 3,000 to 4,000 people. Right now during the busiest season of the year with stores and at a time when good help is difficult to get would be the very best time to organize the store help.570 F Nov. 4,1919. Mr. Walter A. Morunga, Men's Dormitory, Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 25th ultimo received, in which you request data and information on the question of "closed shop". In reply, I am sending you pamphlet being reprint of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-unionist a Moral Right to Work, How, When and Where he Pleases", by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop", published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 15 1-155 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., listed at ten cents a copy and to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open shop" a report of which appeared in the February 17th, 1905, issue of the Journal", Rochester, New York. I would also refer you to the attached list of references, from which I am sure you could secure some valuable information. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.571 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. W. K. Freeman, President State Federation of Labor, Labor Temple, Pittsburg, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 27th received in which you state that you should have recommended Brother W. A. Crull to receive the commission for Atchison instead of Kansas City. Permit me to advise you that commission has already been issued to Organizer W. A. Crull for Atchison, Kansas under date of September 5th, 1919 upon recommendation of the central body. Therefore it will not be necessary to forward him a new commission. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. Robert Edwards,Organizer American Federation of Labor, 504 Crawford ST., Martins' Ferry, OHIO. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 28th received and contents noted. Mail in the future will be sent to you at 504 Crawford Street, Martins' Ferry, Ohio. You state that you regret that your commission does not cover the entire country. If you will have an official recommendation forwarded from your international union I shall be glad to issue a VOLUNTEER Organizer's commission for the United States of America. This is in accordance with the established custom of the A. F. of L. in the matter of issuing general commissions. Under separate cover there is being forwarded to you a book of instructions to organizers, which will give you full information as to the fees charged by the various international unions. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.573 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. Oscar H. Blase, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Wichita, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Relative to your inquiry as contained in your favor of October 28th permit to advise that shinglers come under the jurisdiction of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, and I am therefore corresponding with President William L. Hutchison, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, Indiana, requesting that he forward you full information. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.574 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. John L. Davis, Secretary State Federation of Labor, Box 71, Columbia, So. Carolina. Dear Sir and Brother: On September 21st, 1918 you recommended to receive a District Organizer's Commission for Spartanburg Brother H.S. Beck. Mail addressed to him has been returned to this office unclaimed. Kindly advise me if he is now active in the work, and if so, furnish his proper local address so that communications addressed to him by this office may be delivered to him promptly. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.575 LAS:AS. November 5, 191[9]. Mr. George Barrett, Secretary Central Trades and Labor Assembly, (Belmont County), Bellaire, OHIO. Dear Sir and Brother: Mail addressed to Mr. August Wenzel is being returned to this office unclaimed. Kindly furnish us with his proper local address so that communications will reach him promptly. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.576 LAS:AS. November 6, 1919. Mr. W. E. Freeman, President Kansas State Federation of Labor, P.O.Box 343, Pittsburg, KANSAS 27th October Frank L. Bryan Coffeyville, and vicinity Coffeyville Saml Gompers.577 LL November 7, 1919. Mr. J. M. Richie, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 823-24 Heed Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 3rd received and contents noted. I am very glad to note that you were successful in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of the wage scale of Brass Bobbin Winders No. 14659 and that the members of the local are satisfied with the settlement. You state that a compromised settlement was reached by accepting a 15 per cent increase over their rate of wages, same taking effect November 1, 1919, and remaining in forced until May 1, 1920. I would be pleased to receive a copy of their new agreement for our files. With kind regards and thanking you for the attention you have given this local, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.578 LL November 7, 1919. Mr. Ed. T. Patterson, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 265, Thurber, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 1st received and contents noted. I am very please to hear that Federal Labor Union No. 11449 has signed a contract and the members have resumed work. While they failed to get just what they wanted, they got a goodly increase. I am also pleased to note that the Teamsters were successful in securing a raise. I would be pleased to receive a copy of the contracts of these locals for our files. With kind regards and thanking you for the attention you have given to this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.579 L.L. Nov. 7, 1919. Mr. O. V. [?], Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 30[?] [?] St., Independence, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 25th received in which you request [?] at the Western States Portland Cement Company be given [?] [?]rough the volume of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and central labor unions by means of circular letter. In your letter of September 8th, on this subject, you made this request: "That the members of Cement Workers #16790 were gathered from the employees of this company; that is is working only [????] plant and refuses to re-employ any members of the [????] unless they renounce the union." This is the first information we received in regard to the situation of this organization. You will, therefore, please furnish me with full particulars as to how the situation started; whether and when the Cement Workers Union was organized its members were employed by the Western States Portland Cement Company and whether they were discharged by reason of their membership or activities in behalf of the union; also if the fact that only part of the plant is working is due to the discharge of the members of the union and that they have not enough employees to run the plant or it is a temporary shut down caused by lack of orders. Awaiting your reply, I am, Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*580*] LL November 6, 1919. Mr. D. J. Henuny, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 624 Main St., Keokuk, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 29th received and contents noted. You enclose copy of the wage scale of Federal Labor Union No. 8227, Ottumwa, showing the increase in wages asked for. This wage scale, as submitted, provides for wages of machinists, machinists' helpers and machinists' apprentices. We cannot permit our directly affiliated local unions to admit persons employed at work that come under the jurisdiction of national organizations or to legislate for working conditions in these trades. Hence, the scale, as submitted by Federal Labor Union, because it stipulates wages for machinists, machinists' helpers and machinists' apprentices, cannot be approved in that form. There is, undoubtedly, a lodge of the International Association of Machinists in Ottumwa and those members of Federal Labor Union No. 8227 employed at work belonging to the jurisdiction of the Machinists' International, should be transferred to that lodge. It will be necessary to submit an amended wage scale to be confined to the unorganized crafts and callings, in other words, the workers who perform a class of work which does not come under the jurisdiction of a national or international union. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you regarding this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.581 LL November 7, 1919. Messrs. Gabrel Brenchand, President B. W. Finn, Secretary, Embalmers' Union No. 16720, 7315 S. Broadway, St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Your letter of October 30th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for attention. You enclose copy of your agreement which your local has presented to the Undertakers' Association of St. Louis, who stated that they would not recognize a union, but if your local would change it to an association, they would recognize same. You also state they rejected your salary and offered the members of your local $30.00 per week. You further state that at your meeting last week, it was agreed to stand pat for your contract by every Embalmer present, which was about 40 out of the 45 members and your local voted a walk-out on the morning of November 16, 1919. Let me say, in reply, that Section 2 of Article 13 of the Constitution, states as follows: "In the event of a disagreement between a Local Union and an employer which, in the opinion of the Local Union, may result in a strike, such Union shall notify the President of the American Federation of Labor, who shall investigate, or cause an investigation to be made of the disagreement, and endeavor to adjust the difficulty. If his efforts should prove futile, he shall take such steps as he may deem necessary in notifying the Executive Council, and if the majority of said Council shall decide that a strike is necessary such Union shall be authorized to order a strike, but that under no circumstances shall a strike or lockout be deemed legal, or moneys expended from the defense fund on that account, unless the strike or lockout shall have been first authorized and approved by the President and Executive Council." Of course, your local is familiar with the fact that we do not submit to the Executive Council agreements of local582 -2- unions unless they have been affiliation for one year, for the reason that in case of strike or lockout in the enforcement of their agreements, they would not be entitled to financial assistance. Charter was issued to your local in July, 1919, and of course you will not be in affiliation for one year until next July. I am, however, taking this matter up with your Volunteer Organizer, David Kreyling, 2228 Oliver St., your city, asking that he get in touch with the officers of your local and be of all possible assistance in bringing about a satisfactory adjustment of your agreement. I trust the members of your local will advise and counsel with Organizer Kreyling and guard against any ill-advised action. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.583 LL November 7, 1919. Mr. David Kreyling, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 2228 Olive St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed please find herewith copy of letter received from the officers of Embalmers' Union No. 16720, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. Please be of all assistance possible to this local in securing the enforcement of their agreement and advise me the final outcome of same. You can, no doubt, secure copy of their agreement from the officers of this local. With kind regards and thanking you in advance for your attention to this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.[*584*] COPY EMBALMERS UNION NO. 16720 St. Louis, Mo. Musicians' Hall, 3535 Pine Street, St. Louis, Mo. Oct. 30, 1919. Mr. Frank Morrison. Dear Friend: At our last meeting of the Embalmers, we voted on the contract of the Embalmers, between the Undertakers and the Embalmers Union. The Undertakers' committee met with the Embalmers' committee about a month ago and went over the contract and was satisfied with it. They then took it up to the Undertakers' Association of St. Louis and they said they would not recognize a union but if we would change it to an association they would without a doubt recognize us. They also rejected our salary and offered us $30 per week. At our meeting last week we agreed to stand pat on our contract by every Embalmer present which was about 40 out of the 45 members. We also voted a walk out on the morning of Nov. 16, 1919. We are at the present time trying to sign up the Undertakers separate and have a promise of one or two large Undertakers of St. Louis to sign our contract before Nov. 15, 1919 and no doubt if this one Undertaker signs our contract, we will have several other follow. We could like very much for you to take the proper action and any good advice that can be given us, we will appreciate same. Hoping you will see where we are taking the proper action under the situation and notify the Central Trades and Labor Union of same. Yours very respectfully, (Signed) B. W. FINN, Secretary, GABREL BRENCHAND, President.585 LAS:AS. November 6, 1919. Mr. William L. Hutcheson, President United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer O. H. Blase, 1401 South Mosly Avenue, Wichita, Kansas desires information relative to the formation of a union of shinglers. I have advised Organizer Blase that I would ask you to forward him full information. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.586 Washington, D. C., November 7, 1919. Mr. John A. Stewart, 3903 WOOLWORTH BUILDING New York City. Telegram received. Invitation accepted. Nothing unforeseen occurring I shall take pleasure in being with you evening november nineteenth. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. of L.587 Washington, D.C. November 7, 1919. John L. Lewis, Hotel English, Indianapolis, Ind. Immediately after talking with you over long distance telephone I communicated your answer to the suggestion of the Attorney General, that is that you cannot agree as a stipulation to the postponement of the case for one week that the strike be called off and that negotiations be begun with the operators on Monday morning for the negotiation of a settlement of the strike. I also communicated to the attorney General your suggestion that the case be postponed for a week and that negotiations with the operators for the settlement of the strike be commenced Monday morning. Mr. Palmer declared that he could not accept your [proposition] suggestion and that the Government would have to proceed to stop the strike. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Chg. A. F. of L.[*588*] [WASHINGTON D.C.] NOVEMBER 4 1919 ON TRAIN ENROUTE TO WASHINGTON FROM NEW YORK JOHN L LEWIS MERCHANTS BANK BUILDING INDIANAPOLIS INDIANA YOUR TELEGRAM WAS REPEATED TO ME IN NEW YORK I AM NOW ON MY WAY TO WASHINGTON INASMUCH AS THE ATTORNEY GENERAL HAS GIVEN OUT THE SUBSTANCE OF MY TELEGRAM TO YOU WILL YOU PLEASE TELEGRAPH ME AT ONCE TO WASHINGTON WHETHER I CAN MAKE YOUR TELEGRAM PUBLIC SAMUEL GOMPERS[*589*]590 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. John M. Norland, Secretary-Treasurer International Union of Timber Workers, 207 Maynard Building, Seattle, WASH. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 30th received and in accordance with the information furnished Organizer J. Fox, Lake Bay, Washington is today being dropped from our records. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.591 AS. November 6th,1919. Mr. Anthony J. Oliver, President International Federation of Technical Engineers', Architects' and Draftsmen's Unions, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. 4th instant Walter V. McCoy New York and vicinity. New York Sam. Gompers.592 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. John R. Evans, Organizer Painters, Decorators & Paperhangers Local #107, 817 Belcher St., Gainesville, TEXAS. Dear Sir and Brother: That portion of your letter of October31st,addressed to Secretary Morrison, relative to the issuance of an organizer's commission to yourself has been referred to me for attention. Since our records show that a central labor union is in existence in Gainesville it will be necessary,under the established rule, that an official recommendation be forwarded by this organization when I shall be glad to issue a commission as volunteer organizer. I note from the records that the central labor union has failed to pay dues since February, 1917, and if the organization is out of existence if you will then secure an official endorsement from your local union I shall be glad to issue the commission. Trusting to hear from you again at an early date, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.593 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. J. J. Hill, Secretary Trades and Labor Council, Box 815, Port Arthur, TEXAS. Dear Sir and Brother: Mail addressed to Organizer L. M. Johnson, recommended by your organization June 16th, 1919, is returned to this office unclaimed. Kindly advise if Brother Johnston is active in the work, and if so furnish his proper local address so that mail addressed to him from this office will reach him promptly. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*594*] November 8, 1919. Mr. M. C. Brush, American International Shipbuilding Corporation, Hog Island, Pa. Dear Mr. Brush: It is extremely gratifying that the good ship "AFEL" is making such a splendid record. Thank you for sending me the notice. In the November issue of the "American Federationist" I made mention of the previous rescue made by the "Afel." May every success attend her in every way. Sincerely yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*595*] HMW:WCR. Nov. 5, 1919. Mr. Norris A. Huse, 225 West Thirty-ninth Street, New York City. Dear Sir:- Your letter suggesting an advertising campaign in the interest of Labor received. There is no doubt that much misrepresentation of the aims and objects of organized labor finds its way into the press of our country. Some of this is from lack of knowledge while a great deal is from intention. The American Federation of Labor, however, has no fund for advertising. It must continue to fight its battles as best it can, always confident that right will triumph. This being the situation you will therefore realize that the conference you suggest would be without result. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*596*] November 7, 1919. Mr. Edgar B. Davis, 527 Fifth Avenue, New York. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to write you in reply to your letter of November 5th and to acknowledge receipt of your booklet entitled "The Dawn of a New Day." He thanks you for submitting the matter to him. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.[*597*] HMW:WCR. Nov. 5, 1919. Mr. Ralph Badgley, Financial Secretary, Federal Labor Union #16464, 737 S. West Street, Shelbyville, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your Constitution and By-Laws received. You ask for their approval. Several amendments have been incorporated in the Constitution, which has been rewritten. The provision is made for the bonding of the financial officers in a security company through the American Federation of Labor. A number of changes have been made in the changing of "L.U." to "union". With these corrections your Constitution and By-Laws are approved. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*598*] AS. November 6,1919. Mr. E. C. Davison, Grand Secretary-Treasurer International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. 4th instant B. Carroll the United States of America U. S. of A. Saml Gompers.[*599*] Nov. 6, 1919. Mr. J. Schmidt, Recording Secretary, Garment Workers Local Union No. 15, 708 Bromo Seltzer Tower Building, Baltimore, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 3rd received and contents noted. Have also read the letter you enclosed signed by Frank J. Esper, Secretary Pro Tem of the National Labor Party of Chicago, Ill. You ask whether the National Labor party has the endorsement of the A. F. of L. In reply, enclosed you will please find copy of an address delivered by me published in pamphlet form in which I discuss the subject of a labor political party. This address was unanimously endorsed by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor as you will note upon reading the pamphlet. The address was made part of the report of the Executive Council at the last annual convention held at Atlantic City, June 1919 and was endorsed by the Convention. It therefore stands as the declaration of the A. F. of L. upon the subject of a labor political party. It is commended to the thoughtful consideration of yourself and fellow officers and members. Let me add that if it will be helpful to you, I shall be very glad to have a number of copies of the address sent to you for distribution among your members. In compliance with your request, I return to you herein the letter from Mr. Esper. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*600*] LL November 8, 1919. Mr. Joseph Richie, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 823-24 Heed Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith you will please find copy of letter received from Alexander Brown, Secretary, Horse Hair Dressers' Union No. 12889, your city, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. Please make the customary investigation of their new demands and forward your report, together with your recommendation to be submitted to the Executive Council. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.601 COPY HORSE HAIR DRESSERS UNION LOCAL 12889 Alexander Brown, Sec'y 2549 S. Marshall St. Philadelphia, November 5, 1919. Frank Morrison, Secretary, American Federation of Labor, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: At our meeting held on Tuesday evening November 4, 1919, I was instructed to let you know that we intend to send out new demands to our employers, and we want to submit the same to the Executive Council for approval. As you no doubt know we used to work piece work all time and 9 hours per day or 54 hours per week. Now we have decided to abandon that system and demand week work. Now our formal demands are week work instead of piece work 44 hours instead of 50 hours and our wages shall be as follows: Class 1 - $46.00 per week Class 2 - 40.00 " " Class 3 - 36.00 " " The time is very convenient now and we are almost certain it will not take very long and they will grant us our demands. We feel that week work in our trade is very necessary due to dirty work. We have to work in rooms that are far from sanitary which by working long hours falls very hard on our health and piece work makes our men try to work more than he ought to under the conditions and occasional bad work makes it very hard for him to make a living. These are the reasons we are taking this step now. Hoping you will give me a prompt reply, I remain, Yours truly, (Signed) ALEXANDER BROWN.602 LL November 8, 1919. Mr. Alexander Brown, Secretary, Horse Hair Dressers' Union No. 12889, 2549 S. Marshall Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 5th reached this office on November 7th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, and same has been referred to me for reply. You state that your local intends to send new demands to your employers and you submit same to this office for the approval of the Executive Council. Let me say, in reply, that I am referring this matter to General Organizer, Joseph Richie, 823-24 Heed Bldg., your city, for the customary investigation and report, in accordance with Article 13 of the Federation Constitution. It should be borne in mind that no effort should be made toward the enforcement of your new schedule until the Executive Council has had an opportunity to pass on same and also until Organizer Richie makes report and recommendation to this office. Please advise me if the members of your local pay 75 cents per month dues, in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*603*] The letter below was also sent to the list of names on the following pages November 9, 1919. My dear Mr. Appleton: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor extends to you an invitation to a dinner to be held at the New Willard Hotel, 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, at 6 o'clock, Monday evening, November 10, 1919. Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. Informal.604 Nov. 8, 1919. The names and addresses of the delegates to the International are: W. A. Appleton Hotel Bellevue Ivor H. Gwynne Hotel Bellevue C. Mertens New Willard Hotel J. Baeck " " " G. Solan " " " Miss H. Burniaux " " " A. J. Wauters " " " P. M. Draper Hotel Harrington T. Moore " " A. Martel " " R. Baxter Hotel Washington D. Rees Hotel Harrington Miss K. Derry Hotel Burlington P. F. Madsen New Willard Hotel P. Hedebol " " " F. L. Caballero Hotel National L. Araquistain " " F. de los Rios Hotel National L. Jouhaux New Willard Hotel Bidegarray " " " Miss J. Bouvier " " " G. Dumoulin " " " Lenoir " " "605 -2- G. H. Stuart Buning Hotel Wardman Park Miss M. Bondfield " " " C. W. Bowerman " " " Miss M. MacArthur " " " A. Onions " " " G. Sexton " " " T. Shaw " " " J. Oudegeest New Willard Hotel Miss S. Groeneweg " " " G. Baldesi " " " Taygen Hotel Wardman Park H. Lindquist New Willard Hotel Johansson " " " C. Ilg Hotel Lafayette R. Tayerle " " V. Dundr " " Mrs. M. Majerova " " (. . . R. Tayerle) A. Crawford Hotel Wardman Park G. N. Barnes " " " John Scott B. M. Jewell J. J. Manning Jas. Egan Rollo S. Sexton W. C. Roberts Henry Sterling Hon. W. B. Wilson John Donlin Wm Spencer Jas. O'Connell A. J. Berres Jas. Lord[*606*] VLY November 10,1919 Mr. Alexander Kahn, Chairman, People's Relief Convention Adelphia Hotel, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Mr. Kahn: It is with sincere regret that I have to say it is impossible for me to leave Washington at this time. You may know of some of the obstacles in the way. It would have pleased me greatly could I have been with you and the representatives of the various organizations in the great relief work. which your organization is accomplishing, particularly to safeguard the lives of the women and children in the devastated countries of Europe. You know that I have endeavored to be of some service to that cause and beg to assure you and those associated with you that anything I can do in furtherance of the great object for which your association is formed and convention now being held, will be done as promptly and as sincerely as it is in my power Kindly convey to the assembled representatives of your convention and accept for yourself my warmest wish for absolute success in the effort being put forth for the worthy and human object of your gathering Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. nt, Americ [] tion of Labor[*607*] Nov. 6, 19 Mr. Lelande M. Shout, 1301 New Hampshire Ave., Lawrence, Kansas. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 30 received and contents noted. You say that you are preparing a paper upon the subject of Unions among public employes and you request any information or literature which I could give you upon the subject which would be helpful to you in the preparation of your paper. I assume that you have references to the organizations of the employes of the United States Government. I have, therefore, requested the following named gentlemen to send you such data and printed matter as will be helpful to you in the preparation of your paper: Mr. E. J. Newmeyer, Secy-Treasurer, National Federation of Federal Employes, 1423 New York Ave., Washington, D.C. Mr. James A. Goodyear, Secretary, Int'l. Union of Steel & Copper Plate Printers, 1630 W. Louden St., Philadelphia, Pa. Mr. Thos. F. Flaherty, Secretary-Treasurer, National Federation of Postal Employes, 400 A.F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Of course, you understand that many of the National and International Unions affiliated with the A.F. of L. have many members who are in the Government employ in the shipyards, the cantonments, and the government printing offices, navy yards and arsenals. If I can be of any further service to you, please advise me, Yours very truly, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.608 EP November 6, 1919. Mr. E. J. Newmeyer, Secretary-Treas., National Federation of Federal Employes, 1423 New York Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed please find copy of letter received from Leland M. Shout of the University of Kansas, requesting information to be used in connection with the preparation of a paper on "Unions Among Public Employes." I have advised Mr. Shout that his letter has been referred to you with the request that you furnish him such data and printed matter as you have on the subject. Will you kindly give this your attention. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. encl609 EP November 6, 19 Mr. Thos. F. Flaherty, Secretary-Treas., National Federation of Postal Employes, 400 A.F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed please find copy of letter received from Leland M. Shout of the University of Kansas, requesting information to be used in connection with the preparation of a paper on "Unions Among Public Employes." I have advised Mr. Shout that his letter has been referred to you with the request that you furnish him such data and printed matter as you have on the subject. Will you kindly give this your attention. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor encl610 EP November 6, 1919 Mr. James A. Goodyear, Secretary International Union of Steel & Copper Plate Printers, 1630 W. Louden St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed please find copy of letter received from Leland M. Shout of the University of Kansas, requesting information to be used by him in connection with the preparation of a paper on "Unions Among Public Employes." I have advised Mr. Shout that his letter has been referred to you with the request that you furnish him such data and printed matter as you have on the subject. Will you kindly give this your attention. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. encl611 Nov. 6, 1919. Mr. J. H. Wilson, Organizer, A. F. of L. 522 Lincoln St., Portsmouth, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed is copy of a letter addressed to me from Sidney Burt, colored, representing the National Brotherhood Workers of America. I have as yet not made any reply to the enclosed. Before doing so, I should like you to give me any information you can relative to the National Brotherhood. Hoping to receive your prompt reply and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.612 TOGETHER WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL Executive Officers [?] Pree, Pres. [?] Thompson. V.P. [?]ney Burt, Secy-Treas. Executive Council L. H. Brown Hugh Porter [?] D. Watts John Shearin J.E. Thompson THE NATIONAL BROTHERHOOD WORKERS OF AMERICA Washington, D.C. Portsmouth, Va., Oct. 28th, 1919. 727 Effingham St. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Dear Sir:- I saw an article in the paper that there would be a conference held in Washington, D. C. Dec. 13th, 1919 - Labor conference and that all Organized Labor are asked to take part. As we the National Brotherhood Workers of America chartered under the laws of the District of Columbia and composed of entirely colored workmen. We would like very much to have this conference to allow a committee of our Executive Board a chance to have a word to say to state to you gentlemen the object of our Union. We stand willing and ready to support the labor movement in every respect that is a just cause with you and your co-workers. It is a known fact that the colored man understands colored men better than anybody else and also knows how to deal with him better than anybody else. We know that it is a fact that it seems as if Capital is trying to destroy Organized Labor. But we can say that the National Brotherhood expect to make every effort to see that they don't use the colored man to do it. Hoping to get an early reply, I remain (Singed) Sidney Burt613 LFL. November 10, 1919 Professor George Burnett, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Professor Burnett:- I have been anxiously waiting for the Trial Bibliography of American Trade Union publications which in your letter of October third, you said had been mailed to me under separate cover. To my great regret that copy has not been delivered. If you will be good enough to send me another copy I shall certainly appreciate the courtesy. If there is any charge to be made for the volume, please enclose bill. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*614*] November 8, 1919. Mr. T. M. Beatty, Member Carpenters Local Union #586, 1721 E Street, Sacremento, California. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 28th received and contents noted. Your letter deals with trouble you are having with your local union in connection with your traveling card While I should be very glad to be of any assistance within my power, yet the matter about which you write is one for action solely by the officers of your local union, or if necessary by the officers of your International Brotherhood. You understand, of course, that each International Union has entire jurisdiction over the conduct of its own internal affairs. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.EMD. November 6, 1919. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Charles A. Meinert, is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Sugar Workers Union #17133, in Salinas, California. Yours fraternally, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*615*] EMD. November 8, 1919. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that J. S. Jones, is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Federal Labor Union #17139, in Clearwater, Florida. Fraternally yours , Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.61[?] Nov. 10, 1919. John L. Lewis, Acting President, United Mine Workers of America, Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother:- Late last night the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor finally approved and issued a statement regarding the coal miners' strike, the injunction proceedings and mandatory order, etc. It was impossible last night to send a copy of that statement to you. For your information and the archives of your office I beg to enclose herewith a copy of that statement. With best wishes, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. enclNov. 11, 1919. Mr. E. L. Taylor, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Barrackville, W. Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter dated October 4th was received November 6th. In compliance with your request I am sending to you under separate cover package of subscription blanks for the American Federationist, also number of sample copies of the magazine. I trust you will be successful in securing a number of new subscriptions. Hoping to hear from you whenever convenient and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.617 Nov. 1, 1919. L. W. Lane, Personal Director, "Successful Farming", Des Moines, Iowa. Sir: Your letter of October 29th reaches me just as I am leaving the city to keep a number of important engagements. I cannot undertake to reply in detail to your letter but have directed my secretary to put together the references on the several matters with which your letter deals and send them to you. They are submitted to your careful and thoughtful consideration. If I were not so very greatly crowded for time I should be very glad to go into these several subjects and discuss in full in this letter those matters but I have discussed them so fully at various times that the references being compiled and enclosed in this letter will give you fully explicitly my views and attitude. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.LIST OF REFERENCES History of the McNamara Case (list attached from FEDERATIONIST) Proceedings of the Annual Conventions of the A.F. of L. 1911, Pages 18, 43, 44, 71, 75, 141, 180, 292, 295, 296, 297, 298, 299, 315-318, 361, 362 Proceedings of the Convention of 1912, Pages 141, 155, 348, 439. Compulsory Arbitration Testimony before the Senate Committee on Education, 1919 Pamphlet "Compulsory Arbitration Pages 149-154, "American Federation of Labor History, Encyclopoedia, Reference Book" Attached List of references from the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST Union Shop (mistakenly called "closed shop") Attached list of editorials and references Employes Physical Examination Page 316, A.F. of L. History, Encyclopoedia and Reference Book, Official Bulletin Committee on Public Information, August 15 and October 25, 1918. [Attached list of References xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx] [(xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx)][*618*] UNION OR "CLOSED" SHOP vs NON-UNION OR "OPEN" SHOP. References in AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST;-- Labor and equal rights, Ed. June, 1900, vol. 7, page 164. Bribery as an employers' weapon, Edit. Jan. 1901, vol. 8, p. 12. My Busy Day In Granite Cutting, James Duncan, Sept. 1901, vol.8,p.337. New plan of organized employers. John Mulholland, Dec. 1901, vol. 8, p. 529. The Non-unionist--individualist, A.S. Leitch, March 1903, vol. 10, p. 163. The open shop--Brazen Hypocrisy, Edit. Nov. 1903, bol.10,p.1163. The union shop or "open" shop. (Annual report, 1903. Samuel Gompers) Dec. 1903, vol. 10, p. 1282. The culprit's cry of "stop thief." Edit. Jan. 1904, vol.11, p.35. The open or closed shop. Herman Robinson, Jan. 1904, vol.11, p. 48. The "open" shop. E.A. Moffett, March 1904, vol. 11, p. 212. Freedom through trade unions. E.A. Moffett. March 1904, vol.11,p.485. More open shop hypocrisy. Edit. June 1904, vol. 11, p. 490. Judicial jumble on the "open" shop. Edit. July 1904, vol. 11,p. 585. The union shop contract decision. Edit. Aug. 1904. vol.11,p.656. Union shop--Trade agreement versus "open" shop. (Annual report, Samuel Gompers.) Dec. 1904, vol.11, p. 1075. Open shop in government service. William T. Keleher, Jan. 1905, vol. 12, p. 13. Union labor and the citizens' alliance. Victor Yarros. Feb.1905, vol.12,p.69. A just court decision. Edit. Feb., 1905, vol. 12, p. 76. Organized labor's light dawning. Edit. April 1905, vol. 12,p.218. The Union shop is right. Samuel Gompers. April 1905, vol.12,p.221. Demand of labor unions for closed shop justifiable. Debate. Harold Chayes. Charles Leviton. May 1905,vol. 12,p.269. [?]makers victory--successful settlement after strike of thirteen weeks against the "open" shop. May 1905, vol.12,p.291.[*619*] -2- Union shop's the thing. Edit. June 1905, vol.12, p. 384. Judicial prejudice against the union shop. Edit. Aug. 1905, vol.12, p.512. Contracy-Breaking employers. Edit. Aug. 1905, vol. 12,p. 519. [?]ersion of Henry White. Edit. Nov. 1905, vol.12,p.838. The union shop demand just. (Annual report. Samuel Gompers.) Dec. 1905. vol. 12, p. 941. Legality of union shop judicially affirmed. Edit. Jan. 1906, vol. 13, p. 24. Union shop fosters American citizenship. W.D. Mahon. April 1906, p. 243. Reactionar court decision. Edit. June 1907, vol. 14, p. 414. The Union shop. (Annual report. Samuel Gompers) Dec. 1907, vol. 14, p. 968. Judge upholds labor's injunction contention. Edit. July 1908, vol. 15, p. 529. What organized labor wants--an interview with Samuel Gompers. George Kibbe Turner, Dec. 1908, vol. 15, p. 1057. Steel workers strike. (Annual report Samuel Gompers.) Dec. 1909, vol. 16, p. 1078. United Association of Journeymen Plumbers, Gasfitters, Steamfitters has never submitted to the "open shop", but has fought and won. Thomas E. Burke. Sept. 1910, vol 17, p. 780. The employers and the labor union. Marcus M. Marks, Oct. 1910, vol.17, p. 881. Labor's differences with Mr. Markus Marks et al Oct. 1910, vol. 17, p. 884. The strike for the union shop declared legal. Oct. 1910, vol. 17, p. 891.[?] The "open shop" city of refuge. Stuart Heid. Oct. 1910, vol. 17, p.893. The "open shop" vs. the the "union shop" from the standpoint of the wage-earner. W.P. Stacy. Jan. 1911, vol.18, p. 22. No shop is closed. Edit. Feb. 1911, vol. 18, p. 117. "Open" and "closed" shops. W.E. Bryan, April 1912, vol. 19, p.321. Labor's day. Frank P. Walsh, Oct. 1918. vol. 25, p.894 [American Federation?]620 COMPULSORY ARBITRATION. References in American Federationist. No compulsory arbitration. Edit. Oct. 1900, vol 7, p. 317 A land without strikes? Robert Askew. May, 1901 vol. 8, p. 158 Compulsory arbitration advocates -- their fallacies exposed. Edit. May, 1901. Vol. 8, p. 160. Compulsory arbitrationists unanimously disagree. Edit. June, 1901, vol. 8, p. 214. As to compulsory arbitration. Henry White. Feb. 1901, vol. 8, p. 38. Compulsory arbitration. Henry Cohen. March, 1901, vol. 8, p. 72. The American trade unions and compulsory arbitration. Walter Macarthur. April, 1901, vol. 8, p. 107. Compulsory arbitration--its real purpose disclosed. Edit. April, 1901, vol. 8, p. 120. Organized labor--its struggles--its enemies--its fool friends. Edit. Nov. 1901, vol. 8, p. 479. Enforced labor is slavery. Edit. May, 1902, vol. 9, p. 239. Compulsory arbitration. ( Annual report. Samuel Gompers.) Dec. 1902, vol 9, p. 927. Compulsory arbitration. (Australian trades union congress. Samuel Gompers.) June, 1903, vol. 10, p. 463. No compulsory investigation or arbitration. Edit. May, 1908, vol. 15, p. 386. Compulsory arbitration. (Important resolutions adopted by Denver621 - 2 - convention of the A.F. of L.) Jan. 1909, vol. 17, p. 58. The compulsory arbitration bill. Samuel Gompers. (letter to Hon. Aremus Ward. ) July, 1910, vol. 17, p. 610. Compulsory arbitration--references in American Federationist--2 Arbitration, mediation, conciliation--extension of Erdman act. (Annual report, 1912, Samuel Gompers.) Dec. 1912, Vol. 19, 1006. Compulsory arbitration in the railroad engineers' award. Samuel Gompers. Jan. 1913, vol. 20, p. 17. [??]ing workers to their tasks through compulsory government "investigation." Samuel Gompers. Feb. 1913, vol. 20, p. 115. Industrial peace--sins committed in its name. Edit. March, 1913, Vol. 20, p. 2009. Boss Foss' threat--new white slave law. Edit. Nov. 1913, Vol. 20, p. 923. Lessons for compulsory arbitrationists. Edit. April, 1914, vol. 21, p. 316. Compulsory arbitration's latest evangelist. Edit. Sept. 1914, vol. 21, p. 731. Canadian conference. ( The Philadelphia A. F. of L. convention. Samuel Gompers.) Jan. 1915, vol. 22, p. 33. Australian labor regulating schemes. Samuel Gompers. April, 1915, vol. 22, p. 253. Invasion by commission. The industrial commission of Colorado.) Edit. Oct. 1915, vol 22, p. 853. That "invasion by commission" editorial. Samuel Gompers. Dec. 1915, vol. 22, p. 1041. Benevolent (?) compulsion in Colorado. Samuel Gompers. June, 1916, vol. 23, p. [???]622 - 3 - The R. R. men's eight hour fight. Edit. Sept. 1916, vol. 23, p. 844. Compulsory arbitration or freedom, which? Samuel Gompers. Oct. 1916, vol. 23, p. 929. We want none of it. ( Canadian industrial dispute investigation act.) Edit. Nov. 1916, vol. 23, p. 1069. Compulsory service unconstitutional. Samuel Gompers. Jan. 1917, vo.. 24, p. 21. Freedom must not be surrendered. Edit. Jan. 1917, vol. 24, p. 45. Freedom gives national virility. Edit. March, 1917, vol. 24, p. 201.MCNAMARA CASE Reference to in American Federationist:- The McNamara Case. Samuel Gompers. June, 1911, v. 18, p. 433. A Call to Labor. June, 1911. v. 18, p. 451. The McNamara Case. Edit. July, 1911, v. 18, p. 535. The McNamara Case--Theodore Roosevelt's Opinion of. Otis. Edit. Aug. 1911, v. 18. p. 606. Defend the Right and Punish the Guilty. Edit. Aug. 1911, v. 18, p. 609. The McNamara Case. Edit. Methods of Defense. Edit. Sept. 1911, v. 18, p. 714. To Organized Labor Executive Council. American Federation of Labor. Jan. 1912, v. 19, p. 17. Labor's Position Lawful and Progressive. Edit. Jan. 1912. v. 19, p. 29. The "Man Higher Up" Outcry. Edit. Feb. 1912, v. 19, pa. 132. And You, Too, Senator, Henburn Edit. Feb.1912,v. 19, p. 141. Otis' Program of Murder--"Quickly, Surely, Silently". Edit. Feb. 1912, v. 19, p. 152. The Organized Assault Against the Rights and Leaders of the American Workingman, Samuel Gompers. March, 1912 v. 19, p. 201. [?]urns' Frenzy Running to Seed, Samuel Gompers. March 1912. v. 19, p. 206 Report of the McNamara Ways and Means Committee. March, 1912. v 19, p.230 The McNamara-Otis' Campaign for Revenge. (Annual Report, 1911. Samuel Gompers) Jan 1912, v. 19, p. 44. Who is Responsible? Samuel Gompers. Feb. 1913, v. 20, p 97.623 VLY November 7, 1919. Frank H. Decker, 100 Lloyd Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 23rd was duly received and I appreciate the sentiments you express regarding my work in the labor movement. You say that you wish something could be done for the men and women employed by Henry Sharpe of Providence. Let me suggest that you get in touch with Mr. Lawrence A. Grace, 37 Weybosset Street, Providence, R. I., the organizer for the American Federation of Labor in that city. Mr. Grace will cooperate with you in the case of the employes of the Henry Sharpe Company. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.624 Nov. 11, 1919. Mr. John M. Ross, 4902 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of November 3rd which will be placed among other communications of a similar character which he has recently received, all of them to be held for future reference. He thanks you for writing. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.625 Nov. 11, 1919. Mr. W. A. Turner, P. O. Box 628, Eldorado, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: When I received your letter of October 1st regarding the organization of the night watchmen employed at the coal mines, I immediately communicated with Mr. William Green, Secretary of the United Mine Workers of America, sending him copy of your letter to me. I am just in receipt of a reply from him in which he says: "This matter was referred to Frank Farrington, President of the Illinois district and he recommends that the application of these men for a separate organization be denied. The United Mine Workers exercises jurisdiction over all men who are eligible to belong to a trade union, employed in and around coal mines. We do not feel that we can share this jurisdiction with any other organization." Of course, you understand that in view of the decision of the officers of the United Mine Workers as above indicated, the A. F. of L. could not issue a charter of direct affiliation to the men in question. I therefore suggest that you take the matter up with Secretary Green, whose address is Merchants Bank Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*626*] Nov. 11, 1919. Miss Irene Kloety, Deputy Director, Woman's Department, Industrial Commission 809 Manufacturers' Home Building, Milwaukee, Wis. Dear Madam: Your letter of November 5th received and contents noted. I regret very much to learn of Miss Copp's illness and trust that it is nothing serious, but that she will speedily regain her full health and strength. I shall be very glad to have her send me the article she promised whenever she is able to prepare it. Thanking you for writing, I am, Yours very truly, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.627 November 11, 1919. Mr. Joseph Ralph, 363 Water St., Sausalito, California. Dear Sir: President Gompers directs me to acknowledge your letter of October 22nd, together with your pamphlet entitled "Equities of Labor Values". He is too crowded just at this moment to read your pamphlet but he hopes to do so later. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.628 Nov. 7, 1919. Mr. Oscar C. Weaver, General Contractors Association, Box 554, St. Petersburg, Florida. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 28th was duly received but owing to absence from the city on official business, this is the first opportunity I have had to make answer. You enclose copies of correspondent with Mr. J.C. Skemp of the Brotherhood of Painters and Paperhangers of America, regarding question at issue between your association and him. You submit the matter to me with the "demand" that I shall direct the painters organization to sign the agreement with your association. Permit me to advise you in reply that each National or International Union affiliated with the American Federation of Labor has entire control and jurisdiction over the affairs of its own organization. There is no power or authority vested in the President of the American Federation of Labor to take the action you desire. I therefore suggest that you should take the matter up further with Mr. Skemp and his fellow officers of the Brotherhood of Painters in the hope that the matter may be amicably adjusted. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*629*] VLY November 10,1919 Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary, Brother of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which was received from Oscar C. Weaver, Secretary of the General Contractors' Association, Box No. 554, St. Petersburg, Florida, together with copy of my reply, both of which I think you will find self-explanatory. You will note that I have suggested to Mr. Weaver that he get in touch with you and your associate officers so that the matter can be taken up direct with your organization. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*630*] Nov. 7, 1919. C O P Y Mr. Oscar C. Weaver, General Contractors Association, Box 554, St. Petersburg, Florida. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 28th was duly received but owing to absence from the city on official business, this is the first opportunity I have had to make answer. You enclose copies of correspondence with Mr. J.C. Skemp of the Brotherhood of Painters and Paperhangers of America, regarding question at issue between your association and him. You submit the matter to me with the "demand" that I shall direct the painters organization to sign the agreement with your association. Permit me to advise you in reply that each National or International Union affiliated with the American Federation of Labor has entire control and jurisdiction over the affairs of its own organization. There is no power or authority vested in the President of the American Federation of Labor to take the action you desire. I, therefore, suggest that you should take the matter up further with Mr. Skemp and his fellow officers of the Brotherhood of Painters in the hope that the matter may be amicably adjusted. Very truly yours, (signed) SAMUEL GOMPERS. President, American Federation of Labor.[*631*] COPY: OSCAR C. WEAVER, Carpenter and Builder. Box. No. 554. St. Petersburg, Fla. Oct. 28, 1919 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, A.F. of L. - A.F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- I am enclosing copies of letter written to Mr. J.C. Skemp, Gen. S.& T.F. Brotherhood of Painters and Paperhangers of America and also letter received by the General Contractors' Association of St. Petersburg in a controversy over agreement and wage scale. I think that copy of letter sent to Mr. Skemp in answer to his letter of Sept. 17 will explain the situation to you. I will also say that under the present scale of wages and agreement that there were no provisions made for taking care of old contracts, that were signed for previous to July 1st, 1919, by Painters Local #233. While every other craft in this city have taken care of their old contracts. We, as an organization, have worked for unionism and have upheld same; in fact, it was mainly through our efforts that the Bldg. Trades Council was formed here in St. Petersburg. After you have read these copies of letters enclosed, we as an association demand of you that you will straighten out painters and have agreement signed by us as an Association. Very truly yours, (Signed) Oscar C. Weaver Sec'y. Gen., Contractors' Ass'n.[*632*] June 10, 1919. General Contractors of St. Petersburg Bro. of P.D. and P.H. Local #233 wishes to announce that the scale of wages for all painting will be 85¢ per hour, from July 1-1919 to July 1-1920. E.C.Boardman, Rec- Sec.Sept. 17, 1919. Mr. Oscar C. Weaver, Secretary, Building Contractors Assn. St. Petersburg Fla. Dear Sir: From your night letter of sept 16th we judge that Local # 233 refuses to permit its members to work for General Contractors who refuse to sign its agreement as individuals for less than 65 cents per hour. The General Executive Board of the Brotherhood ruled( as we notified Mr. DuBoise under date of August 4th) that general contractors who hire painters direct and who furnish all ladders, staging, brushes and other tools and equipment and provide working conditions similar to those obtaining in the shops of the exclusive painting contractors are entitled to the service of the members of the union at the rate of 70 cents per hour, Contractors who do not furnish staging ladders, brushes and other tools and equipment are required to pay 85¢ cents per hour the rate demanded from general public. It appears that Local #233 insists that general contractors desiring to hire men at lower scale shall sign an agreement and that, refusing to do so they shall be required to pay the higher scale. This would seem to be a reasonable condition. We see no reason why any employer should decline to comply with it. We are assuming that the agreement contains no discriminatory provisions but is as liberal as is that signed by exclusive painting contractors[*633*] - 2 - We are mailing a copy of this letter to the secretary of Local Union #233 Very truly yours J.C. Kemp.- 3 - or have a voice or vote on hours and wages. Very truly yours, Oscar C. Weaver, Secretary, Contractors Association Copy Telegram. Lafayette Ind. July 30 1919 Chas DuBoise St. Petersburg Fla. General Contractors employing men steadily pay same wages, painting Contractors. J. C. Skemp.Lafayette, Ind. October 15, 1919. Mr. Oscar Weaver, General Contractors' Association, St. Petersburg, Fla. Dear Sir: Reply to your letter of October 7th was deferred in order to submit our correspondence to Mr. C. E. Swick, our Southern Gen. V. P. and to obtain his views regarding the matter at issue. Mr. Swick coincides with the views expressed in my letter of September 17th. It would not be practical to enter into an agreement with The Gen. Cont. Asst. for the reason that some of its members might be willing and able to provide the same working conditions as the exclusive painting employer while others might require painters in their employ to furnish their own staging and tools, and others again might prefer to have all their painting done by exclusive painting contractors. A blanket agreement would not meet these varying conditions. Some employers would be entitled to hire men at 70 cents per hours; while others should pay the higher scale demanded by the general public. If a general agreement was signed it might lead to many disputes as to whether this or that contractor should pay the lower scale or the higher scale. Each case would have to be dealt with on its merits and this can be done more satisfactorily by the General Contractors singing the agreement individually. Believing that on further thought the members of the634 - 2 - Association will accept this as the most satisfactory method. I remain, Very truly yours, (Signed) J. C. Skemp G.S.T. Copy.635 St Petersburg, Fla. Oct 7th 1919. Mr. J. S. kemp, General Sec-Treas, Lafayette, Ind. Dear Sir: In answer to your letter of Sept. 17th, I would say that on August 11th a delegation from th Gen Cont. Assn. visited Local #233 and asked them to appoint a committee to meet committee from the Association to formulate an agreement. On August 18th President Chas DuBoise of the Association appointed a committee to meet committee from Local #233. On August 25th the Association committee reported meeting with Local #233 Committee and copy of agreement between Local #233 and Contracting Painters was read before Association meeting and laid on the table. On Sept. 15 1919 a member of Local #233 asked President Duboise of the Association to sign agreement and he answered that he would as President of the Association and also that he would have the Secre sign. He was refused and told that we would have to sign as individua ls or pay 85 ¢ cents per hour. Perhaps you do not know that every Painting Contractor in St. Petersburg, but one is a member of Local#233, also that every member of the General Contractor Association has been and is at heart a Union Man. We would not sign the agreement because it had any discriminatory provisions in, but for the reason that Local #233 denied us the right to bargain collectively. They have discriminated against the General Contractors Association in as much as they are trying to force the General Contractors to give all painting to the Paint Contractors by countract or by the day.636 - 2 - How as I see it, about half of the members of the Association give their work out Contract. The wirter has their contract with the only Painting Contractor in town who is not in the Local #233 and he pays wages, hours, etc. according to painting agreement yet he is denied men, and his men are told that if they work for him they will be fined and have left him. If that is not descrimination what do you call it? After asking for an agreement as an Association and being willing to sign, then have a proposition hurled into your teeth, sign with a union whose policy is dictated by the Contractors in the Union or pay the limit for your work. What would you do? Perhaps you do not know that two-thirds of the work we are doing was figured at the scale of 62 1/2 cents per hour, and that we were not taken care of in regards to old work, and that we are willing to pay the advance to 70cts, also that our contracts are figured in February, March and April, and some are not completed until January, some not started until fall, Also that the City of St. Petersburg licenses a General Con tractor to do any thing from Road Building up. and also requires him to give Bond to protect the city against any damage that may arise, also that a painting contractor pays a license, but gives no Bond , and the General Contractor has to stand good for the painter on his job. Now I think that you would do well to recall your decision in re- gards to the signing of agreement as individuals or have each and every man in Local #233 sign with each of the General Contractors, also elima- nate the Painting Contractors from you Painting Unions, and when we will be on an equal footing with them. Perhaps you know that the President of Local #233 for the last six months has been a contracting Painter which is illegal in all Union for a Contractor to hold office637 Letter on compulsory arbitration can be found on page 527 of the form book. Nov.11,1919. Mr. R.A. Hittson, c/o Simmons College, Abiline, Texas. Dear Sir: 638 F Nov.11,1919. Mr. Charles V. Macava, 33 York Street, Manchester, England. Dear Sir: Permit me in President Gompers name to thank you very much for the copy of the new edition of Social and Industrial Reform. Very truly yours, Clerk.639 Letter on compulsory arbitration can be found on page 527 of the form book. Nov. Mr. Peter A. Mazzei, P.O. Box 275, Parkville, Mo. Dear Sir:640 Letter on minimum wage can be found on page 313 of the form book F Nov.11,1919. Mrs. A.C. Wilson, 53 Carmarther St., St. John, N.B. Dear Madam:641 Letter on compulsory arbitration can be found on page 527 of the form book. Nov Mr. Howard Y. McClusky, Park College Glee Club, Parkville, Mo. Dear Sir:642 F Nov.11,1919. Mr. L.W. Hatch, Chief Statistician, Department of Labor, State Industrial Commission, Albany, New York. Dear Sir: As per your request of the 6th instant you will please find enclosed copy of the pamphlet "Why the Peace Treaty Should Be Ratified". Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.643 WCR:EJL November 11, 1919 Mr. John A. McSparran, Master, Pennsylvania State Grange, Fruniss, Pa. Dear Sir: Your communication in which you return a letter addressed to you with the statement that it had been misdirected, received. You state that you believe it should have been sent to the American Society of Equity. Permit me to say that your address as Master of the Pennsylvania State Grange was furnished to me by C. A. Lyman, Secretary- Treasurer of the National Board of Farm Organizations. Since receiving your letter I have talked with Secretary Lyman and he says there must be some mistake in your conclusion. I am therefore returning the letter to you with the request that you consider it and take such action as you feel is due the serious situation confronting the farmers and the labor organizations as well. Hoping that you will give the matter your attention, I remain, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.644 LL November 11, 1919. Mr. Thomas Murphy, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 215 S. 9th St., Murphysboro, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from Thomas J. Welch, Financial Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 12901, 611 N. 15th St., your city, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. Please make the customary investigation of their new demands and forward your report, together with your recommendations, to be submitted to the Executive Council. Please advise me what increase in wages they are asking, decrease in hours, if any, and other working conditions. You can, no doubt, secure a copy of their wage scale from Secretary Welch. Awaiting your report and thanking you for the attention you will give this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.645 COPY FEDERAL LABOR UNION NO. 12901, Murphysboro, Ill., Nov. 7, 1919. Hon. Frank Morrison, Esq., Secty. Amer. Federation Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Please find enclosed scale of wages to be adopted by this local by the first of Mar. 1920 to which you will please have the President, "Samuel Gompers" to approve same and act on same by signing it and returning it at once, so we can get same with contracts to all contractors and companies who employ us by the 1st of Dec., so the above Cos. and contractors can have same 30 days to sign up and parley on. Trusting you will hustle same up, I am, Fraternally yours, (Signed) THOMAS J. WELCH, Fin. Sec. 611 North 15th Street, Murphysboro, Ill. Federal Labor Union No. 12901.646 LL November 11, 1919. Mr. Thomas J. Welch, Financial Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 12901, 611 North 15th St., Murphysboro, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 7th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, reached this office on the 10th, and has been referred to me for attention. You enclose copy of your scale of wages to be adopted by your local the first of the year, 1920, of which you ask approval and that I sign same and return it at once, so that your local can present it to the contractors and companies who employ members of your local by the first of December. Let me say, in reply, that I am taking this matter up with our Volunteer Organizer, Thomas Murphy, 215 S. 9th St., your city, for the customary investigation and report. As soon as Organizer Murphy's report is received, your scale will be submitted to the Executive Council. It should be borne in mind, however, that no effort should be made towards the enforcement of your new demands until the Executive Council has had opportunity to act on same and report on the matter has been received from Organizer Murphy. Please advise me if the members of your local pay 75 cents dues, in accordance with the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards and wishing your local every success, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.647 LL November 11, 19 Mr. Frank H. McCarthy, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 30 Wheatland Ave., Boston, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find carbon copy of a letter I am just writing to Secretary Grace, of the Fish Workers' Union No. 14307, which I am sending you for your information. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.648 LL November 11, 1919. Mr. Joseph G. Grace, Secretary, Fish Workers Union No. 14307, 54 Perkins St., Gloucester, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 9th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has reached me for reply. I thank you for sending me copy of your working agreement, which you state is now in force with your employers. I am very glad to note that your local was successful in securing this agreement without any trouble. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.649 LL November 11, 1919. Mr. Hugh Frayne, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 608-9, 1416 Broadway, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from Meyer Abramson, Organizer, United Umbrella Handle & Stick Makers Union No. 14581, your city, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. Please make the customary investigation of their new demands, in accordance with Article 13 of the Constitution and forward your report, together with recommendation, to this office when their demands can then be submitted to the Executive Council for consideration. You will note that Organizer Abramson states that the agreement they hold with their employers is terminating in February, 1920. I take it that the local is giving the employers 60 days' notice of their new demands. Kindly advise me regarding this matter. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.650 COPY UNITED UMBRELLA HANDLE & STICK MAKERS UNION NO. 14581, Headquarters 175 E. Broadway New York, Nov. 8, 1919. Mr. Frank Morrison, Secty of A. F. of L., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: We hereby apply for an endorsement of the following new demands: An increase of 35%; a decrease of the working week of 5 hours, from 49 to 44 hours a week, and 10 legal holidays with full pay. The agreement we hold with our employers is terminating in February, 1920. This agreement was in force two years. The 49 hour week was not changed for the last four years. The average earnings of our members is about $25 a week, and under the existing conditions with the high cost of living, you will understand that it is almost impossible to exist. Trusting that you will bring this matter before the Executive Council for action immediately and will forward to us your endorsement, we are, Fraternally yours, (Signed) MEYER ABRAMSON, Organizer.651 LL November 11, 1919. Mr. Meyer Abramson, Organizer, United Umbrella Handle & Stick Makers Union No. 14581, 175 East Broadway, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 8th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for attention. You ask for endorsement of your new demands, of an increase of 35%, a decrease of the working week of 5 hours, from 49 to 44 hours a week, and 10 legal holidays with full pay. Replying I beg to advise that I am taking this matter up with our General Organizer, Hugh Frayne, Rooms 608-9, 1416 Broadway, your city, and requesting him to make the customary investigation of your new demands, in accordance with Article 13 of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor. I will write you further as soon as I hear from Organizer Frayne. With kind regards, and wishing your local every success, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.652 LAS:AS. November 8,1919. Mr. A. J. A. Wagner, Recording-Secretary Hagerstown Central Labor Union, 545 S. Potomac Street, Hagerstown, MD. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 6th received, in which you state that the Central Labor Union in regular session recommended the appointment of delegate Robert Bingham as local organizer. In this connection permit me to state that I am today in receipt of a communication from Mr. Bingham in which he states that he does not care to accept the position of local organizer unless he is duly nominated and elected in competition with others who may desire the position. Enclosed find herein copy of his letter to me. Trusting to hear from you again relative to the above, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. ENCL.653 COPY F. Hagerstown, Md November 6, 191. Mr. Saml Gompers, Pres. A.F. of L., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: By action of Hagerstown Central Labor Union of the 5th inst. I was recommended to the A.F. of L. for local organizer. Please accept this protest on my part as I feel thr action was hasty, and, without due consideration. I did not solicit the appointment neither shall I accept unless duly nominated and elected in competition with others who may desire this position. Trusting that you will see the justness in this and refer the matter back to the H.C.L.U. for further consideration I beg to remain Yours For The Good of the Cause (Signed) Rbt. Bingham 31 N. Frank St., Hagerstown, Md.654 LAS:AS. November 8,1919. Mr. Robert Bingham, 31 W. Frank Street, Hagerstown, MD. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 6th received and contents noted. In the same mail with your communication I received a letter from the Hagerstown Central Labor Union recommending that you be appointed local organizer. I note your protest and a copy of your communication is being forwarded to the Central Labor Union with the request that they advise me further relative to the matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor655 F Oct.31,1919. Mr. M.G. O'Donnell, The Manchester Guardian, 230 West 42nd St., New York City. Dear Sir: In reply to your request of the 23rd instant, you will please find enclosed herein list of the men of labor who served on government boards and commission at Washington. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.656 APPOINTMENT OF LABOR REPRESENTATIVES ON GOVERNMENT BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS. SECRETARY OF LABOR WILSON'S ADVISORY BOARD. John B. Lennon, Special Advisor to Secretary Wilson (Tailor) John Casey (Plumber) Agnes Nestor (Glove Worker) BOARD OF RAILROAD WAGES AND WORKING CONDITIONS (which superseded the former Railroad Wage Commission of which W. S. Carter was Director) G.H. Sines, Chairman, 718 18th Street. NATIONAL WAR LABOR BOARD REPRESENTING LABOR ON WAR CONFERENCE BOARD Frank J. Hays, President, United Mine Workers. William L. Hutcheson, President, Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. Wm. H. Johnston, President, International Association of Machinists. T.A.Rickert, President, United Garment Workers. Victor Olander, Vice-President, Seaman's International Union. WAR PRISON COMMITTEE. John Manning, Secretary, Union Label Trades Department of A.F. of L. EXCESS PROFITS T.W. McCullough (Printer) Advisor to Treasury Department. REHABILITATION OF SOLDIERS C.H. Winslow, Member of committee to draw bill. U.S. SHIPPING BOARD, LABOR ADJUSTMENT BOARD. A.J. Berres, Secretary Treasurer, Metal Trades Department of A. F. of L. CANDONMENT ADJUSTMENT BOARD J.R. ALPINE? President, Plumbers International Union, Dr. E.M. Hopkins cha Chairman. HOUSING COMMISSION BOARD Wm J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer Building Trades Department A.F. of L.657 - 2 - WAR INDUSTRIAL BOARD. Hugh Frayne, (Sheet Metal Workers) Organizer, A.F. of L. EMERGENCY CONTRACT AWARD COMMISSION John Donlin, President, Building Trades Department, A.F. of L. WAR SAVINGS CERTIFICATES COMMITTEE. C.L. Baina, Secretary-Treasurer, Boot and Shoe Workers Union. FUEL COMMISSION J. P. White (Coal Miner) Assistant to Fuel Director. HARNESS AND SADDLERY COMMISSION W.E. Bryan, President, International Union of United Leather Workers. FOOD COMMISSION. J.W. SULLIVAN,(Printer) COMMITTEE TO FIX PRICE OF WHEAT AND MEAT. J.W. Sullivan (Printer) W.M. Doak, Vice-President, Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen. SPEECH BUREAU, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR. E.P. Marsh, (Printer)Director. LONGSHOREMEN'S AGREEMENT T.V. O'CONNOR, President, International Longshoreman's Association DISTRICT LIBERTY LOAN COMMITTEE Newton A. James, Secretary of the Washington Central Labor Council, John Deviney, Plate Printer. BUREAU OF INDUSTRIAL HOUSING AND TRANSPORTATION William J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer, Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor. APPEAL BOARD.. U.S. SHIPPING BOARD..EMERGENCY FLEET. COPORATION Mr. James O'Connell, President, of the Metal Trades Department, A.F. of L. Mr. John I. Nolan Chairman of the Executive Board of the International Molders Union. Mr. Louis Weyand, President of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers and Iron Shipbuilders.[*658*] FAR LABOR POLICIES BOARD (Labor Advisers to Department Representatives.) John. R. Alpine to Stanley King for Secretary of War Baker. Hugh Frayne to Mr. Bernard Baruch. G. I. Christy for Secretary of Agriculture Houston. John P. White for Dr. Garfield of the Fuel Administration. A. J. Berres for Charles Pies of the U. S. Shipping Board. A. J. Berres for Franklin D. Roosevelt, Assistant Secretary of the Navy.Nov. 11, 1919. Mr. Arthur Alston, 643 Frederick St. San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 31st received and contents noted with much interest. May I suggest that you call on Mr. John O'Connell, Secretary of the San Francisco Labor Council and submit to him the matter you have in mind and with which your letter deals. I am sure he will be very glad to give his careful and thoughtful attention to any matter which you may bring to his attention. Yours very truly, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Address of John O'Connell, Secretary San Francisco Labor Council, Labor Temple, 16th & Capp Sts., San Francisco, Cal.659 LAS:AS. November 6,1919. Mr. William F. Kramer, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 1150 Transportation Building, 608 So. Dearborn Street, Chicago, ILLINOIS. Dear Sir and Brother: You no doubt recollect writing me on October 22nd relative to th complaint of Mr. Edmund Turner of Mobile, Alabama. I am in receipt of another communication from him upon the subject, copy of which I enclose. I would appreciate your advising me as to the present status of this matter. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.660 Mobile, Alabama October 31, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of the 24th received and duplicate letter from the Blacksmith. The Blacksmiths in this city have refused to take us under their jurisdiction and will not support us under the A. F. of L. this is what I want to state to you we have colored helpers walking the streets with cards and they are working men without cards and if they re-organize our Local under the A. F. of L. this should prevail. Hoping you will investigate this matter because we can live under the A. F. of L. as good as we could in this International support for the colored helper is what we are fighting for I have a good report to make to the A. F. of L. in my next report. Fraternally yours Edmund Turner.661 LAS:AS. November 8,1919 Mr. Will Shivers, Recording Secretary Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Local Union No. 718. Clarksville, TENN. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 5th addressed to Secretary Morrison has been referred to me for attention. Since Organizer John Rosser is no longer active in the work in your city he is today being dropped from the records. Thanking you for forwarding me the information I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.662 WCR:EJL November 7, 1919 Miss Louise Wilson, Secretary, Fruit Workers' Union No. 16688, General Delivery, Fresno, Calif. Dear Madam: In continuation of my letter of November 5th, I herewith return the Constitution and By-Laws submitted by you for approval. In Article V, provisions governing the business manager, an amendment has been inserted requiring that a bond shall be given in a security company through the American Federation of Labor. With this correction your Constitution will be approved. With best wishes for your success and that of your organization, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.663 WCR:EJL November 7, 1919 Mr. P. E. Deeter, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 16895, Box 251, Rupert, Idaho. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter of November 5th, I herewith return the Constitution and By-Laws submitted by you for approval. The Constitution is incomplete. I am returning it to you with a copy of a model constitution, from which it is sug- gested that you prepare a new one. With kind regards and wishing your Local success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.664 WCR:EJL November 7, 1919 Mr. James H. Doyle, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Continental Hotel, Petaluma, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter containing the Constitution and By-Laws of the Central Labor Council of Petaluma, Calif., received. You ask for their approval. Several changes are suggested. In Section 5, Article III, this provision is added: "He shall give bond in a security company through the American Federation of Labor." This is in conformity with the Constitution of the A. F. of L. Section 1, Article VII, has been amended. The Council undoubtedly was organized for the purpose of aiding its Local Unions in their activities. It was not organized to accept donations and give celebrations and entertainments. While the Council is at liberty to give entertainments, it should not be made a part of its constitution; it is superfluous. Section 1, Article VIII, provides for the trial of any union or organization. Each Local affiliated with the Council is guaranteed autonomy. In carrying out the policy of its Inter- national a Local may sometimes conflict with the desires of the Central Labor Council. It is therefore a dangerous provision and has been eliminated. Sections 6 and 7 of Article I of the By-Laws have been stricken out. Section 2 of Article III, providing that the President shall maintain order, covers the same ground as Section 6. Section 7 is ambiguous. Because a man is elected President, he should not lose his vote. Each organization is entitled to be represented in all votes. In Rule 15 of Rules and Regulations, these words are eliminated: "And in case of a tie the Chair shall give the deciding vote". As the Chair is entitled to vote on all questions, in case of a tie it would mean that the motion was lost. He can not vote twice. Section 2 of the Declaration of Purposes is eliminated as it is ambiguous. The American Federation of Labor Conventions665 (James H. Doyle -- 2). have taken the stand that it is impossible to figure out just how much of a product is produced by an individual laborer. It is impossible to figure out what kind of a government would be nec- essary to carry out this declaration. With the corrections submitted made, your Constitution and By-Laws will be approved. I am returning them herewith. With best wishes for yourself and for the success of your organization, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.666 LAS:AS. November 6,1919 Mr. John L. Davis, Secretary and Treasurer South Carolina State Federation of Labor, 500 Loan & Exchange Bank Bldg., Columbia, S.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of the 3rd instant has been received and contents noted. I beg to thank you and the organization for the recommendations you make. Upon looking up the records I find that Messrs. F. M. Barry, Thomas B. Cooper and C. H. Greene already hold commissions as volunteer organizers of the A. F. of L. However it affords me pleasure to comply with the request and recommendation made, and commissions will be issued and forwarded to Messrs. Jack L. Wilson and E. M. Doughty. There is also forwarded to them a package of literature and documents published by this office, which I am sure they will find of assistance to them in the discharge of their duties as the representative of the A. F. of L. I trust their co-operation and assistance as the duly authorized representatives of the A. F. of L. will result greatly in the advancement of our movement in every way.667 With kind regards, and hoping to hear form you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.668 LAS:AS. Nov. 6th, 1919. Mr. Douglas Hoybook, Recording-Secretary Tyler Central Labor Union, 731 Kennedy Ave., Tyler, TEXAS. 3rd instant B. W. Watts Tyler and vicinity Tyler Sam'l Gompers.669 November 12, 1919 (Kindly send this telegram to the names on attached list.) L. E. Boeglin, 704 Grant Street, Albany, Alabama. The Esch Bill, to turn the railroads over to private operation and control, carries with it a provision that the labor organizations shall be liable to the extent of their funds. You are urged to have your organization and every labor man and friend to telegraph to-day to their Congressmen at Washington, protesting against this provision of the Esch Bill being adopted. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge, A. F. of L.670 VLY November 12, 1919 Mr. J. C. Sk[??]p, Secretary-Treasurer, Brotherhood of Painters, Paperhangers and Decorators of America, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 10th received and contents noted. You state that you received my letter of November 10th, but that the letter from Secretary Newton O. Baker was not enclosed. I am therefore sending you herein a copy of the letter from Secretary Baker under date of November 3, 1919. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.671 COPY-VLY AR DEPARTMEN WASHINGTON NOVEMBER 3, 1919. My dear Mr. Gompers: I have received your letter of October twenty-second with regard to the action taken by the convention of the American Federation of Labor seeking to inaugurate a forty-four hour week in the Navy Yards and in such analogous industrial under- takings as are under the jurisdiction of the War Department. I am referring the matter to General Williams, Chief of Ordnance, under whose direction such operations are conducted for a report upon conditions in the arsenals which would be affected by such action. Cordially yours, (signed Newton D. Baker Newton D. Baker Secretary of War. Honorable Samuel Gompers, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C.672 X November 12, 1919. Mr. P. Smith, Secretary, Oil Field Workers' Local No. 24, McKittrick, Calif. Doing everything possible. You and friends wire protest to Senators and Congressmen regarding Cummins-Esch bill. SAMUEL GOMPERS. 673 EMD. November 8, 1919 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Stanley Tompach, is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Stall Cleaners Union #[??]137, in Sugar Creek, Missouri. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.674 EMD. November 6, 1919. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Robert E. Burford, is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Freight Handlers and Station Employes Union #17136, in West Point, Virgin Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.675 Washington, D. C., Nov. 13,1919. Miss R. Lee Guard Elwood Hotel, St. James Place, Atlantic City, New Jersey. The Executive Council met in special session Sunday, Monday Tuesday and adjourned Wednesday afternoon. I must be in New York on Monday and may have to leave Sunday. I may have to go to Chicago from New York. would like to have the opportunity to over some matters with you before I leave Washington, but if it interferes with your restoration I think you should not leave Atlantic City. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. OF L. Washington, D. C., Nov. 12,1919. Ralph M. Easley 33rd Floor Metropolitan Tower, New York City. Regret was unable to talk to you yesterday. I wish you would call me up at my home Cleveland one six seven three about nine thirty Thursday morning. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. of L.676 JMF. November 12,1919. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that J. C. Cousins is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Federal Labor Union #17150, Sapulpa, Oklahoma. Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.677 WASHINGTON D. C. NOVEMBER 13, 1919 MR. T. A. HARRIS CARE HOTEL RENNERT BALTIMORE MD REGRET EXCEEDINGLY THAT IMPORTANT DUTIES PREVENT MY BEING WITH YOU TO ADDRESS MAS MEETING IN THE INTEREST OF THE STEEL STRIKERS ON SUNDAY SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A F OF L678 November 13, 1919. John Devering, care Milk Drivers' Union, 166 West Washington Street, Chicago, Ill. This is to advise you that the jurisdiction of the charter issued under the title of Automobile Laborers and Tire Repairers covers only men engaged in the unpacking and loading of new automobiles in the Chicago branch houses of the large automobile concerns, and tire repairers. It does not cover jurisdiction over men working in Garages , washing polishing or cleaning up, etc; that jurisdiction belongs to the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America. Communication went forth thisJohn Devering, Sheet 2. morning to Organizer Fitzpatrick and Enright, clearly setting forth that statement and instructing that if there are any Garage Workers in that organization they should be dropped. FRANK MORRISON. Charge A.F. of L.679 LAS:AS. November 10,1919. Mr. H. H. Hudson, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 642 - 43rd Street, Bellaire, OHIO. Dear Sir and Brother: Under date of November 3rd the Bellaire Central Trades and Labor Assembly advised me that owing to bad health you have resigned your position as organizer. Of course, under the circumstances, I can but accept your resignation and you are therefore being removed from our records. I want to take this opportunity of thanking you for your cooperation while working as a representative of the American Federation of Labor, and may I express the hope that your health will soon be restored, and if you then desire to take up the activities of an organizer I shall be glad to give the matter of reissuing your commission immediate attention upon hearing from you. If you desire to retain your commission as a souvenir kindly return the same and it will be so marked and returned to you. Kindly let me hear from you occasionally. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor680 F Nov.11,1919. Mr. H.J. Conway, Secretary-Treasurer Retail Clerks International Protective Asso., Lock Drawer 248, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: You will please find enclosed herin copy of a letter received from Mr. H. Smith, Hamlin, Texas, which is self-explanatory. I have advised Mr. Smith that the matter has been referred to you for attention. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.681 COPY F. Hamlin, Texas, Jones County. October 26, 1919 Hon. Samuel Gompers, Pres. & Director Federation of Labor, Federal Dept., Washington, D.C. Honorable Sir: I beg to state this instant, from observation, which is apparent without investigation, the facts in regard to Over Time Work od several department houses of this city. In brief, for instance, Frank P'Pool of Pool-Whittington Compant, to which firm this applies directly, is most concerned, due to this city's not providing a Labor Board, which is evidence sufficient to make one cognizant of the inconsideration shown to employees. However, I am confident that a brief request forwarded to P'Pool will be sufficient to meet just demands without further investigation unless you deem it indispensable. (Signed) H. Smith. (Authoritatively.)682 F Nov. 11,1919. Mr. H. Smith, Jones County, Hamlin, Texas. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 26th ultimo received and contents noted. The subject matter of your letter has been referred to Mr. H.J. Conway, Secretary-Treasurer of the Retail Clerks International Protective Asso., Lock Drawer 248, Lafayette, Indiana, with the request that he give the matter his attention. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.683 Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. Sam. H. Boyles, D. S. Kittanning Lodge, L. O. O. M. Penna. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 7th received and contents noted. I have read with interest the copy you enclosed of the letter you addressed to Attorney General Palmer and thank you for offering me the opportunity of reading it. I would be glad to have you let me have a copy of the reply you receive from the Attorney General. I would like to write to you at length regarding several matters touched upon in your letter to the Attorney General, but I am so crowded for time just at this period that I am unable to do so. This is merely an acknowledge- ment of the receipt of your letter and to thank you for writing me. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.684 Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. W. O. Smith, President, Typographical Union No. 751, Punxsutawney, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 10th received in which you enclose verses by you entitled "Labor." I appreciate your sending the verses to me and shall be very glad to publish them in an early issue of the American Federationist and to see to it that several copies of that issue are sent to you. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.685 Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. Robert W. E. Fuller, 722 - 11th St., N. W. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: President Gompers thanks you for your letter of November 11th and the paper you enclose. He has not yet had the opportunity of reading it but hopes to do so at a later date when he will not be so pressed for time. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.[*686*] Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. D. C. Cummings, Ministry of Labour, Montagu House, Whitehall, London, S. W. Dear Mr. Cummings: I was very glad to receive a word from you even though you wrote but briefly. In compliance with your request, the change has been made in our mailing list to the above address. If for any reason you should not receive the American Federationist, please advise me and I will immediately have it traced up. Thank you for your kind expressions regarding myself. As you have surmised the pressure is very heavy just now, but I am trying to do my very best in behalf of my fellowmen. Reciprocating your good wishes and hoping to hear from you further, I am, Yours very truly, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*687*] November 13,1919. Mr. Louis J. Hart, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 2009 North 18th Street, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Secretary Morrison has referred to me your letter of November 6th in which you request one of my photographs to be framed and hung in the Hall. I am very glad to comply with your request by sending you one under separate cover. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*688*] Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. J. J. Giles, Secretary, Metal Trades Council, 625 Armstrong St., Portsmouth, Va. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 8th received and contents noted. Your idea regarding a daily labor publication is worthy of consideration. Indeed it is a matter which has been considered and discussed at great length from time to time. What has always stood in the way, however, has been the matter of financing such a project. As to your suggestion for levying an assessment of $5 upon the entire membership of the unions affiliated to the A. F. of L., let me say that the Constitution provides that assessments may be levied only under certain conditions and for a certain specified amount as you will note by referring to the A. F. of L. constitution. But I hope yet that sooner or later the plan of a daily labor paper may be successfully worked out. Thank you for the interest you manifest in the matter and hoping to hear from you at your convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.689 November 13, 1919. Minneapolis Brewing Co., Minneapolis, Minn. Gentlemen: Your letter of October 29th received and contents noted. You refer to controversy between the Machinists Local Union of Minneapolis and the Crown Cork and Seal Co. of Baltimore, Md. and you request my advice as to whether your Company should order corks from the Baltimore concern in view of the existing conditions. Let me say in reply that upon receipt of your letter I conferred with Mr. Johnson, President of the International Association of Machinists who is located in Washington. He advises me that the machinists have been on strike against the Crown Cork and Seal Co. for over a year. In another department of that Co. the employees are organized into a Federal Labor Union directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor. For a number of years this union has been working under a signed agreement with the Company. The present agreement was entered into May 1918 to run until May 1920. I have placed the facts before you and you must be the judge of what other course you should follow. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*690*] Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. John T. Cosgrove, First General Vice-President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters Building, Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 6th received and contents noted. I am very sorry that you and Messrs. Brady and McAndrew are unable to make arrangements so as to permit you to undertake jointly the trip to Porto Rico and particularly that it would not be possible for you to accompany them on the visit to Santa Domingo. Mr. McAndrew has written to me regarding the matter and inasmuch as he of course desires to participate in the meeting of the Presidents of the National and International Unions which will be held in this city, December 13th, he of course could not leave for Porto Rico on November 29th. Would it be possible for you to postpone your trip until the middle of January? I should be very glad, indeed, for you to act as member of the A. F. of L. Committee. However, if you find it impossible to change your arrangements and you do make the trip on November 29th, I should be very grateful to you if upon your return to headquarters you would give me the benefit of your advice as to the conditions generally in the labor movement in Porto Rico as they impressed themselves upon you. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you further at your convenience, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*691*] November 13, 1919. Mr. Bryce Little, University of N. C. Chapel Hill, N. C. Dear Sir: Your letter of November 2nd received and contents noted. You say that you will shortly take part in a debate upon the question "Resolved that for purposes of bargaining between employer and employee, the organization of all labor within the individual plant or industry offers a better solution of industrial problems than the present system of national unions." I assume from the opening paragraph of your letter that you have the negative side of the question as you re- quest that I should send you pamphlets or printed matter showing the advantages of "national unions over individual unions." I have just had compiled from information furnished me by the officers of the various national and international unions affiliated with the A. F. of L. data showing some of the advantages which have been secured by these organizations through collective bargaining. I have only one copy of this compilation and I could not permit it to be sent from my office. Enclosed, however, you will find the names and addresses of affiliated national and international unions secretaries. I would suggest that you write to the Iron Moulders International Union, the Boot and Shoe Workers Union, the Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterers International Union, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen, the Glass Bottle Blowers' Association, the International Association of Granite Cutters, the International Association of Machinists, the United Mine Workers of America, the Pattern Makers League, the United Association of Plumbers, the Amalgamated Association of Street and Electrical Railway Employees, the International Typographical Union, requesting them to send you some of their printed matter showing the advantages which have been gained by them through692 Mr. Bryce Little, Page 2. collective bargaining. Enclosed you will find copy of references and editorials and articles on the subject of collective bargaining, published in the American Federationist, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor of which I am editor. Under separate cover I am sending you two pamphlets, one the American Labor Movement and the other the American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program. These are commended to your thoughtful consideration. If there is anything further which I can do to be of help to you, please advise me. Yours very truly, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.693 November 13, 1919. Mr. Russell E. Duke, Delta Tau Delta House, Oxford, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your letter of November 3rd received and contents noted. You say that you will shortly take part in a debate upon the question "Resolved that for purposes of bargaining between employer and employee, the organization of all labor within the individual plant or industry offers a better solution of industrial problems than the present system of national unions." I assume from the opening paragraph of your letter that you have the negative side of the question as you request that I should send you pamphlets or printed matter showing the advantages of "national unions over individual unions." I have just compiled from information furnished me by the officers of the various national and international unions affiliated with the A. F. of L. data showing some of the advantages which have been secured by these organizations through collective bargaining. I have only one copy of this compilation and I could not permit it to be sent from my office. Enclosed, however, you will find list of affiliated national and international unions with the names and addresses of their secretaries. I would suggest that you write to the Iron Moulders International Union, the Boot and Shoe workers Union, the Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterers International Union, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen, the Glass Bottle Blowers' Association, the International Association of Granite Cutters, the International Association of Machinists, the United Mine Workers of America, the Pattern Makers League, the United Association of Plumbers, the Amalgamated Association of Street and Electrical Railway Employees, the International Typographical Union, requesting them to send you some of their printed matter showing the[*694*] Mr. Russell E. Duke, Page 2. advantages which have been gained by them through collective bargaining. Enclosed you will find copy of references and editorials and articles on the subject of collective bargaining, published in the American Federationist, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor of which I am editor. Under separate cover I am sending you two pamphlets, one the American Labor Movement and the other, the American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program. These are commended to your thoughtful consideration. If there is anything further which I can do to be of help to you, please advise me. Yours very truly, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*695*] VLY November 13, 1919. DOCUMENT NO. 76. EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: At the special meeting of the Executive Council held in Washington, among other things it was decided that the American Federation of Labor should be represented at the meeting called by the "Progressive Farmers' Organizations" and the Railroad Brotherhoods, Friday and Saturday November 21 and 22, and that the representatives of the A. F. of L. should address that convention. The Executive Council urged that the President of the A.F. of L. together with such members of the E. C. who can be at Chicago at that time, should form this delegation. I expressed my willingness to go to Chicago and perform that duty. At the following days' meeting, circumstances which arose impelled me to bring the matter again before the Council and express my disinclination to proceed to Chicago for that purpose. After the members of the E. C. expressed their views that I should go, I again assented though I had some misgivings about its utility. However, the matter was left with me to decide. You will recall that at the meeting of the E. C. in October the fact was brought out that the "American Labor Party" would be formed at Chicago at a convention to be held there November 18-22. In this morning's newspapers there is published a statement given out by Mr. John Fitzpatrick of Chicago, that at the convention of the "American Labor Party" to be held in November candidates for President and Vice-President of the United States would be nominated. In view of the above I ask the members of the Executive Council to telegraph me whether in their judgment the members of the E. C. and the undersigned should proceed to carry out the wishes expressed by the Executive Council at its recent special meeting. Please give this your prompt attention. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.696 LL November 13, 1919. Mr. William Mitchell, Secretary, Warehouse Employes' Union No. 15480, 111 E. Pearl Street, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 10th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for reply. I thank you for sending me this report and am pleased to note that you were successful in placing all the members of your local back to work, but two, and that all stores except two, are 100 per cent union. I sincerely trust those two members will soon go back to work and that the other two stores will grant the demands of your local. Wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.697 LL November 13, 1919. Mr. Holly Noe, Financial Secretary, Window Glass Snappers' Union No. 15433, 907 Franklin St., Sandusky, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 11th received and contents noted. I thank you for the information in regard to the date your wage scale went into effect and expires. I would be pleased to receive copy of same for our files. In compliance with your request, I am enclosing herewith copy of the protest you sent to this office from the Erie Window Glass Company, of Sandusky, Ohio. With kind regards and wishing your local continue success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.698 LL November 12, 1919. Mr. Charles Perry Taylor, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 1285, Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from H. J. Phillips, Business Agent and Acting President, Gas Workers' Union No. 15741, Seattle, together with carbon copy of my reply, which I am sending for your information. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.699 COPY GAS WORKERS' UNION NO. 15741. Seattle, Wash., 10/31, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 22nd inst., received and contents noted. In reply I would ask that you reconsider your decision in regard to strike benefits to the members of Gas Workers' Union No. 15741, as I believe in the light of the following facts we did not violate the rules governing such matters in leaving the employment of the Seattle Lighting Company, Sept. 6, 1919. There are five unions that have members involved in this strike. Steam and operating engineers had thirty-three workmen involved. Blacksmiths, four, Machinists, 1, and teamsters, six. All of the membership of the Gas Workers' Union was involved. A short time prior to the call of the strike it was found that the company by the use of stool-pigeons planted in the works had so worked upon the less intelligent members of the unions that they were in a fair way to become corrupted. At the same time, as mentioned in my other letter, union men were being discharged right and left and non-union men put in their places. During this time the stool-pigeons were telling the men that they had no contract, that the unions could not protect them, that if they quit the unions they would be sure of holding their jobs, etc. At the same time the company was holding off from making another contract, although not definitely refusing to do so. It was only when we learned to what extent the paid agents of the company had undermined the morals of our union that we decided that quick and drastic action must be taken if the integrity of our union was to be preserved. A meeting was called of all the men employed by the Gas Company including the members of the other four unions involved. It was there unanimously decided to demand that the company agree to renew our contract that had expired. It was not yet believed that a strike would be necessary to secure our demand, as the company had willingly signed a contract the year before, and no new demands were being made. Following this meeting the company took quick action in forcing our president out of his job (all of the officials of the union were employes of the company) and discharging the mem- bers of the committee who were asking for a conference to negotiate a new contract. Any delay in action at this time would have resulted in the disruption of our union. A meeting was called and it was voted to demand the reinstatement of the men who had been discharged because they were handling the affairs of the union. A refusal on the part of the company was to be followed by a strike. All of the unions concerned agreed to this action and approval was given by the metal trades council of the city, with which three of the unions concerned were affiliated. The Central Labor Council of Seattle also gave its approval, the Gas Workers' Union being affiliated with it.[*700*] -2- The company ignored the demand to reinstate the discharged men and at 10 o'clock Saturday morning, Sept. 6th all of the men employed by the gas company who were union men walked off the job. This was a case that admitted of no delay in deciding on the action to take. To have submitted the case to the executive board of the American Federation of Labor and awaited investigation by that body would have resulted in there being no union left to negotiate with. It was a case that required quick decision on the part of the union officials to determine whether they would follow the course provided by the rules of the A.F. of L. with the probability of the union going to pieces before any action along that line could be taken, or holding the men together and preserving our union by taking immediate action. In taking the latter course we acted in what we believed to be the best interest of organized labor, and subsequent events have I believe justified our action. We have preserved our union, and while the plant is running with non-union labor, it is being run in a very inefficient manner and if our union is enabled to hold out long enough we shall win the fight. The length of time we can hold out is dependent on the amount of financial assistance we receive as most of the membership consists of men with families. Benefits at this time will save our union and win the fight, while refusal of them will be very discouraging to the men who have made such a valiant fight for organized labor. I have not yet got in touch with Mr. Charles Perry Taylor, but hope to at an early date as I have written him asking that he arrange a date and place of meeting. Fraternally yours, (Signed) H. J. PHILLIPS, Business Agent and Acting President. 5700 26th Ave., N. E.[*701*] LL November 12, 1919. Mr. H. J. Phillips, Acting President, Gas Workers' Union No. 15741, 5770 26th Ave., N. E., Seattle, Wash. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of October 31st reached this office on November 10th and I have carefully noted contents of same. You ask that we reconsider the decision in regard to paying strike benefits to the members of your local who are on strike at the Seattle Lighting Company. As I wrote you, under date of October 22nd, your organization disqualified itself for benefits by ordering a strike before the application for sanction of your demands were submitted to the Executive Council and same were approved. Provisions regulating the conduct of organizations presenting demands are written into the laws of the American Federation of Labor. The laws of the American Federation of Labor are very specific and the officers are bound equally with the local organizations in enforcing these laws. They have no authority to waive the law or to do other than to see to it that the requirements are fulfilled. We endeavor to impress upon our organizations the necessity of observing the requirements to avoid circumstances of this character. There is a very large membership directly affiliated to the American Federation of Labor and the funds created for the defense of unions seeking the betterment of conditions must be safe-guarded. If exceptions were made in granting benefits without requiring the fulfillment of the laws, there would be no regularity and we might find ourselves in a position where the officers of the American Federation of Labor would not be in position to fulfill the pledge of the American Federation of Labor to grant financial assistance to those members who comply with the laws and are consequently eligible. I regret, therefore, that your local union placed the matter in a position where the officers of the American Federation of Labor are not in a position to grant strike benefits. I sincerely trust, however, that a satisfactory settlement of your strike will soon be brought about.702 -2- General Organizer Charles Perry Taylor has been advised to take this matter up with your local and he reports that he will get in touch with the officers of your local and give such assistance as may be possible. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.703 LL November 12, 1919. Mr. Fred A. Campbell, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 158 Broad St., St. John, N. B. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from Harry Caughlin, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 17079, P. O. Box 93, Milltown, N. B., together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. I would appreciate it very much if you would get in touch with the members of this local and be of all assistance in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of their difficulties. I would also appreciate your advising me the final outcome of the matter. With kind regards and thanking you for the attention you will give this matter, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.704 COPY Milltown, N. B., Nov. 5, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I have been instructed by local union No. 17079 of Milltown, N. B. to write you in regard to a matter, which to us, is of a very serious nature. A few months ago a union was formed in this town, affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, for union purposes, eighty or ninety persons joining same. Word was sent to the superintendent on the job in regard to this matter, and at first he professed that the would prefer treating with organized labor, but recently, has refused to listen to the committee appointed by the union, practically telling them that he refused to recognize the union, and would keep non-union men on the job, while discharging union men. To state the matter briefly, there has never been a union in this town, or on this river, below Woodland, until after local union #17079 was organized, then an organizer of the Textile Workers came here and organized a union for those workers, employed by the Canadian Colored Cotton Co. Ltd.; and at present it would seem as though the Superitendent of the Cotton Mill, and the Superitendent of the Construction work, on which men belonging to union #17079 are employed are working together for the purpose of breaking up unionism in this town. We request that an adjuster be sent here as soon as possible to straighten out our difficulties and to keep unionism in this town. The Construction work of which I speak is in charge of the Anglin-Norcorss Construction Co., of Montreal, Canada. Trusting that we may receive a favorable reply, I remain, Yours truly, (Signed) HARRY CAUGHLIN, Secty. Local Union 17079 P. O. Box 93.704 COPY Milltown, N. B., Nov. 5, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I have been instructed by local union No. 17079 of Milltown, N. B. to write you in regard to a matter, which to us, is of a very serious nature. A few months ago a union was formed in this town, affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, for union purposes, eighty or ninety persons joining same. Word was sent to the superintendent on the job in regard to this matter, and at first he professed that the would prefer treating with organized labor, but recently, has refused to listen to the committee appointed by the union, practically telling them that he refused to recognize the union, and would keep non-union men on the job, while discharging union men. To state the matter briefly, there has never been a union in this town, or on this river, below Woodland, until after local union #17079 was organized, then an organizer of the Textile Workers came here and organized a union for those workers, employed by the Canadian Colored Cotton Co. Ltd.; and at present it would seem as though the Superitendent of the Cotton Mill, and the Superitendent of the Construction work, on which men belonging to union #17079 are employed are working together for the purpose of breaking up unionism in this town. We request that an adjuster be sent here as soon as possible to straighten out our difficulties and to keep unionism in this town. The Construction work of which I speak is in charge of the Anglin-Norcorss Construction Co., of Montreal, Canada. Trusting that we may receive a favorable reply, I remain, Yours truly, (Signed) HARRY CAUGHLIN, Secty. Local Union 17079 P. O. Box 93.[*705*] LL November 12, 1919. Mr. Harry Caughlin, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 17079, P. O. Box 93, Milltown, N. B. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 5th received and contents noted. I have carefully read your report on the conditions surrounding your local and your request that some one be sent as soon as possible to straighten out your difficulties. Let me say, in reply, that I am requesting our Volunteer Organizer, Fred A. Campbell, 158 Broad St., St. John, N. B., to meet with the officers of your local and be of all possible assistance in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of this matter. I sincerely trust that the officers of your local will advise and counsel with Organizer Campbell and guard against any ill-advised action and assist him in every way possible to bring about an adjustment of your difficulties. Of course, your local is familiar with the fact that in case of strike or lockout, growing out of this matter, the members will not be entitled to financial assistance from the defense fund of the American Federation of Labor, through the fact that your local has not been in affiliation to the American Federation of Labor for one year, charter having been issued October 11, 1919. With kind regards and wishing your local success, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.706 AS. November 6,1919. Mr. George Barrett, Secretary Belmont Central Trades and Labor Assembly, Bellaire, OHIO. 3rd instant David H. Jones Bellaire and vicinity. Bellaire Saml Gompers.707 P.S. I regret to receive the information that Organizer H. H. Hudson has resigned on account of ill health, and in accordance with the information furnished he is being dropped from our records today.708 Washington, D. C., November 13, 1919. L. Bowen, Secretary, Alabama Federation of Labor, Box 180, Birmingham, Ala. Steagall, Bankhead, McDuffie, Huddleston will vote with labor. Others uncertain. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. OF L.[*709*] EP November 13, 1919 Mr. J. H. Brinker, Supt. of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- Enclosed please find fifty cents (50¢) in stamps for which kindly forward to Mr. Peter J. Brady, Supervisor, Board of City Record, Municipal Bldg., New York City report compiled by Girard Harris on the West Indies for the Department of Commerce. Very truly yours, Guy A. Oyster Secretary to President Gompers enc[*710*] EP November 12, 1919 Mr. Peter J. Brady, Supervisor, Board of City Record, Municipal Bldg., New York City. Dear Mr. Brady:- Your letter of the 10th instant, requesting copies of reports of the Governors of Porto Rico, Hayti and Santo Domingo also report compiled by Girard Harris on the West Indies for the Department of Commerce, was duly received. I have this day been informed by the Navy Department that the three reports first mentioned will not be in print until about two months from date, but I have requested that they notify me when same are available. As to the report compiled by Girard Harris, I have this day forwarded fifty cents (50¢) in stamps to the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, with the request that the document be forwarded direct to you. Very truly yours, Guy A. Oyster Secretary to President Gompers[*711*] EP November 12, 1919 Mr. Herbert C. Pell, Jr., House of Representatives, U.S., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir:- Mr. Gompers desires that I acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 6th instant, in reference to the Constitutional League and to say that he has been so engrossed with matters of transcendent importance that he has been unable as yet to give the matter therein set forth the attention it deserves. Very truly yours, Guy A. Oyster Secretary to President Gompers.EP November 12, 1919 COPY Mr. Andrew B. Humphrey, Secretary, The Sulgrave Institution, Suite 3903 Woolworth Bldg., New York City. Dear Sir:- Mr. Gompers desired that I acknowledge receipt of your invitation for him to attend a meeting of the Board of Governors for the Sulgrave Institution on Thursday, November 13. Acknowledgement has been delayed due to the fact that he hoped to the last minute that he would be able to attend; but he now find that matters of great importance demand his attention in Washington. Very truly yours Guy A. Oyster Secretary to President Gompers.713 COPY Washington D. C. Nov. 11, 1919. W. H. Short, League to Enforce Peace, Bush Building, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, N. Y. It is impossible for me to attend meeting Executive Committee League to Enforce Peace. In my opinion the importance of the establishment of a League of Nations is so great that reservations which do not deprive the League of essential effectiveness ought to be accepted rather than lose the opportunity to create an agency which will mark the beginning of a new era in international relations and morality. However, no reservation ought to be accepted under which our government would shirk the responsibilities devolving to League members - for such reservation would be repugnant to American ideals and character. Samuel Gompers. Charge A.F. of L. Secretary President[*714*] MD. November 13, 1919 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to certify that Adrian Vanderpoel, is herewith duly authorized to initiate the members and install the officers of Gardeners and Florists Union # [?]144, Hinsdale, Illinois. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.715 LAS:AS. November 11,1919. Mr. Emmet T. Flood, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Jefferson Hotel, Toledo, OHIO. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find herein copy of a communication from the Carpenters' Local Union #1551, Secretary E. G. Furtenbaugh, 1118 - 8th Street, Three Rivers, Michigan as well as a communication from President William L. Hutcheson of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, By reading the same you will note that it deals with the matter of a complaint that Organizer Forest Flin was called upon by a number of citizens and told to leave the above city. Since Three Rivers is between Chicago and where you are now working I am referring this matter to you for investigation and report without interfering in any way with the work you now have on hand. It is suggested that you correspond with Secretary Furtenbaugh before visiting the above city so that he may call a meeting of those interested in the case, thereby conserving your time. With best wishes, and trusting to hear from you soon, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. ENCL. 2716 November 3- 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, A.F. of L. Building, Washington,D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Yours of the 20th at hand and in reply thereto desire to state that while Mr. Flin is a member of our organization and has always been a good trade unionist, to the best of our knowledge, I would suggest that you send one of your representatives to investigate the matter at Three Rivers, Michigan. Fraternally yours William L. Hutcheson, GENERAL PRESIDENT.717 October 29, 1919. Mr. William L. Hutcheson, President, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter from the secretary of your local union #1551 of Three Rivers, Michigan regarding Forest Flin, member of this local unions and volunteer organizer for the American Federation of Labor. Our records show that commission was issued to Mr. Forest Flin on September 2nd, 1919 upon the recommendation of Local Union No. 1551. Before taking any steps, the entire matter is submitted to you for your advice. Hoping to hear from you at your convenience, and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.718 Three Rivers Michigan, October 24, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: Your organizer that you appointed for the City of Three Rivers and vicinity, is in trouble. Mr. Forest Flinn organized the Hod Carriers and Labors, some two weeks ago and apparently through the influence of Fairbanks Morse and Company, they called a citizens meeting and condemned Mr. Flinn the organizer as a Bolshevik, and politely told him to leave this country before 6 o'clock the following morning, or they would make an example of him, Mr. Flinn has been a member of this local 1551 of carpenters something like four years, and we as a membership of over 50 members have never heard him utter a word that he is anything but a good American citizen. We feel that it is a frame-up against him. If the charges that they claim against him are true, why did they as a business men and legal talent of this city, order him out of the country? Why not prefer charges against him, have him arrested, tried, and if convicted, punished according to law? We, as local 1551 C. and J. of A. do, respectfully appeal to you as President of A. F. of L. for advice and would very much like to have a representative sent here to look into the matter, for we feel at this time that he (Mr. Flinn) should have the support of the A. F. of L. Please give this some thought for we do not think Mr. Flinn guilty of charges made against him. Fraternally yours, E.G. Furtenbough, Rec-Sec.Union 1551 C. J. of A. 1118 8th Street, Three Rivers Michigan.719 AS. November 11,1919. Mr. Willkam L. Hutcheson, General President United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters' Building, Indianapolis, INDIANA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 3rd is received. You advise me that Organizer Forest Flin of Three Rivers, Michigan is a member of your organization and has always been a good trade unionist to the best of your knowledge, and you suggest that we send a representative to the above town. I am communicating with Organizer Emmet T. Flood, Jefferson Hotel, Toledo, Ohio asking that he arrange to investigate this matter at an early date. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.720 LAS:AS. November 10,1919. Mr. E. G. Furtenbaugh, Recording-Secretary Carpenters Local Union No. 1351, 1118 - 8th Street, Three Rivers, MICHIGAN. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of the correspondence relative to Organizer Forest Flin being ordered out of Three Rivers, permit me to address that I am communicating with our representative, Mr. Emmet T. Flood, Hotel Jefferson, Toledo, Ohio to arrange to visit Three Rivers as soon as he can find the opportunity and correspond with you in advance of his visit. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.721 LAS:AS. November 11,1919. Mr. Harry Jenkins, Secretary Glass Bottle Blowers' Association of the United States and Canada, 1005 Colonial Trust Company Building, Philadelphia, PA. Dear Sir and Brother: This office is in receipt of a communication from Brother Ben F. McCulley, Blackwell, Oklahoma to the effect that there is a glass factory in the above town which makes fruit jars of all sizes and also makes bottles such as catsup, vinegar, pop and mustard bottles, the same being all done by machine. Mr. McCulley desires full information relative to organizing the employes of this factory, and I have informed him that the matter is being referred to you for attention with the request that you kindly write him direct. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.722 LAS:AS. November 11,1919. Mr. Ben. F. McCulley, Blackwell, Oklahoma. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 5th is received and contents noted. I am today communicating the same to Mr. Harry Jenkins, Secreta of the Glass Bottle Blowers' Association of the United States and Canada 1005 Colonial Trust Company Building, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with the request that he communicate with you relative to the organization of the glass factory about which you write. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.723 LAS:AS. November 11,1919. Mr. Herman G. Ahlberg, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 108 S.E. 14th St., Des Moines, IOWA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 10th received and contents noted. You state that you are now doing some special work in Des Moines but that you expect to return to Burlington. In accordance with your request there is being forwarded under separate cover a few sample copies of the American Federationist as well as a number of subscription blanks. There has already been forwarded to you at Burlington a list of organizations and instructions to organizers. If the same have not reached you upon the receipt of this letter kindly let me know and duplicate copies will be forwarded. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.724 LAS:AS. November 13,1919. Mr. John L. Davis, Secretary State Federation of South Carolina, 500 Loan & Exchange Bank Bldg., Columbia, S.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 10th received. In accordance with the information you furnish Organizer H. S. Beck is being dropped from our records for the above city and a new commission issued him for Greer, S.C. With best wishes, and trusting to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.725 LAS:AS. November 12,1919. Mr. H. F. Trommer, Secretary Hartford Central Labor Union, P.O.Box 20, Hartford, CONN. 10th instant Timothy M. Crowley Hartford and vicinity Hartford 726 LAS.AS. November 12,1919. Mr. W. E. Freeman, President Kansas State Federation of Labor, P.O.Box 343, Pittsburg, KANSAS. 5th instant J. W. Tate Winfield and vicinity. Winfield Saml Gompers.727 LAS:AS. November 12, 1919. Mr. William F. Kramer, Secretary & Treasurer International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 608 So. Dearborn St., Chicago, ILL. 10th instant Jere J. Carey United States of America U. S. A. Saml Gompers.728 -2- P.S. A commission as General Organizer will also be issued to Mr. W. A. McArthur of 2 Clinton St., Cambridge, Massachusetts.72[?] LAS:AS. November 13,1919. Mr. Joe Danielson, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 704 1/2 Third Ave., Bradley Beach, N.J. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 10th received and contents noted. Permit me to advise you in answer to your inquiry that the American Federation of Labor issues charters to button makers direct. I am enclosing you herein a blank application for charter and a memorandum which will give you full information as to the fees charged etc. I shall look with interest the receipt of the first issue of your labor paper. I note what you say relative to the garment workers, and I am today communicating with Secretary B. A. Larger, 117 Bible House, New York City with a request that he take up the matter and also communicate with you. Trusting to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am Fraternally you[*730*] WCR:EJL November 13, 1919. Mr. O. D. Potter, Recording Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 16206, 911 Corbett St., Hagerstown, Md. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter containing certain amendments to your Constitution received. You ask that they be approved. Article VIII, Initiation Fees, Article IX, Dues, and Article X, Benefits, are hereby approved. With best wishes for yourself and your organization, and hoping that I shall hear from you when anything important occurs, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. P. S. Your amendments are herewith returned to you. S.G. Enclosure.731 WCR:EJL November 13, 1919. Mr. Henry A. Leisenring, Recording Secy., Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, Room 214 Smith Building, Sunbury, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter enclosing a copy of the Constitution of the Central Labor Union of Sunbury, Pa., received. You ask for its approval. In Article I the words "affiliated to the American Federation of Labor" have been insterted. Article II should be changed. Your charter confines the membership of your body to local unions of Sunbury, Pa., affiliated through national and international unions to the American Federation of Labor. That part of the clause stating that it shall be composed of "labor organizations in Northumberland County" has been eliminated. In Section 4 of Article VII the words "per capita" have been included. Section 7 of Article VII has been amended by inserting: "They shall see that the financial secretary and treasurer give bond in a security company through the American Federation of Labor." On page 7 in the duties of the Organization Committee changes are made to make it better understood. In the duties of the Grievance Committee the word "capital" has been changed to "employers. With these changes your Constitution will be approved. Same is herewith returned to you. With best wishes for yourself and your organization, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.732 Nov. 14, 1919. Mr. Charles Fox, President, Indiana State Federation of Labor, Terre Haute, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 5th received and I note your recommendation for the appointment of J. L. Simms of Linton, Indiana, as special organizer for the State. Mr. Simms was at headquarters the latter part of October and he spoke to me then about having an organizer visit Indiana. While fully appreciating Mr. Simms, his ability and capabilities, yet at the present it does not seem practicable to appoint any additional organizers. Let me suggest that you give me a list of the localities in Indiana in which the opportunity is now afforded for effective organization work. In making up the itinerary for the A. F. of L. organizers, we could no doubt arrange for one or more of the A. F. of L. organizers to spend some time in Indiana. Hoping to hear from you in regard to the above at your earliest convenience, and with best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.733 LAS:AS. November 10,1919. Mr. J. W. Hays, Secretary-Treasurer International Typographical Union, 635 Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, IND. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 5th received and contents noted. In accordance with the recommendation made Organizer M. E. Smith of Sunbury, Pennsylvania will be issued a volunteer organizer's commission for the United States of America. I am today writing to Organizer Smith requesting that he return his District Commission since you have recommended that he receive a commission for the United States of America. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*734*] LAS:AS. November 10,1919. Mr. M. E. Smith,Organizer American Federation of Labor, 330 So. 4th St., Sunbury, PA. Dear Sir and Brother: In a communication from Secretary-Treasurer J. W. Hays, International Typographical Union, 635 Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana, under date of November 5th, he recommends that you receive a general organizer's commission instead of the district commission you now hold. In accordance with this recommendation a commission will be issued to you as a volunteer organizer for the United States of America, and sent you under separate cover. As soon as the same is received kindly return your district commission to this office. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.735 LAS:AS. November 10,1919. Mr. Henry E. Anderson, Recording Secretary Freight Handlers' Union #17025, 421 Chestnut Street, Lynchburg, VA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 4th received and I am indeed glad to receive the information that your organization will render every support it can. In answer to your inquiry as to the maximum wages paid freight handlers for 8 hours' work, permit me to enclose herein Supplement 7 to General Order No. 27, U. S. Railroad Administration, and particularly call your attention to article 5, which I have marked. This will furnish you the information you desire. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. ENC.736 AS. November 10,1919. Mr. Robert L. Reed, Recording-Secretary Central Labor Union, Gulf Port, Mississippi. 6th instant Robert L. Reed Gulf Port and vicinity. Gulf Port Saml Gompers.737 AS. November 10,1919. Mr. W. R. Anderson, Recording-Secretary Gainesville Central Labor Union, Gainesville, TEXAS. 5th instant John Evans Gainesville and vicinity. Gainesville. Saml Gompers.738 Nov. 14, 1919. Miss Neva M. Carter, R. A. U. S. General Hospital #80, Whipple Barracks, Prescott, Arizona. Dear Madam: President Gompers thanks you for your courtesy in sending him your verses entitled "Labor." Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.739 Nov. 14, 1919. Mr. Frederick G. Schoen, Treasurer, Barbers Local #741, 1014 E. Church St., Jacksonville, Florida. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 7th addressed to President Gompers has been duly received, together with the manuscript you enclosed. He directs me to acknowledge the receipt and thank you for sending it to him and to say that he hopes to be able to read it at a later date. Yours very truly, Secretary to President Gompers.740 E.P. November 14, 1919. Mr. Willie W. Wisler, Real Estate Trust Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- Under separate cover I am sending you two copies of the November AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. May I express again my appreciation of your contribution? I am sure it will be suggestive and helpful to many. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.741 EP Nov. 14, 1919. Dr. E. J. Rosa, U.S. Bureau of Standards, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- Under separate cover I am sending you two copies of the November AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. May I express again my appreciation of your contribution? I am sure it will be suggestive and helpful to many. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.742 E.P. Nov. 14, 1919. Mr. H. J. Newman, U.S. Public Health Service, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- Under separate cover I am sending you two copies of the November AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. May I express again my appreciation of your contribution? I am sure it will be suggestive and helpful to many. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.743 EP November 14, 1919. Mr. Morris L. Cook, Finance Building, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- Under separate cover I am sending you two copies of the November AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. May I express again my appreciation of your contribution? I am sure it will be suggestive and helpful to many. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*744*] F Nov.14,1919. Mr. Theo. Bisser, President Quincy Trades and Labor Assembly, 919 1/2 State St., Quincy, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of the 8th instant received, in which you ask for literature on the question of "closed shop." In reply, I am sending you pamphlet being reprint of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONISR, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-unionist a Moral Right to Work, How, When and Where he Pleases", by Frank K. Foster. I also also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop", published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., listed at ten cents a copy, and to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17th, 1905, issue of "The Journal", Rochester, New York. I would also refer you to the enclosed list of references in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.745 Nov. 14, 1919. Capt. J. S. Fleet, Chairman Lecture Committee, Culver Military Academy, Culver, Indiana. Dear Sir: Your letter of November 8th received and contents noted. I fully appreciate the force of all that you say regarding the proposed meeting of the Cadets of the Culver Academy and the value and advantage it would be to them to present to their young minds the correct story of the labor movement, of what it has done and what it means, not only to the wage earners themselves, but to our entire citizenship, but for the life of me I don't see at present any possibility of my being able to make the trip to Culver for the purpose indicated. I regret very much that Mr. Perkins was unable to accept your invitation. Now, let me make another suggestion, that is, that you extend an invitation to Mr. John P. Frey, editor of the Iron Molders Journal, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Mr. Frey is another representative of organized labor and is a capable speaker, thoroughly grounded in the principles of the labor movement, its achievements, hopes, aims and objects and who can present his subject to an audience in a forceful, pleasing manner. I would suggest that your read an interview by Mr. Frey which was published in the October or November Metropolitan magazine. When you read that, you will have a very much better idea of him and his ability. Again expressing my regret that circumstances prevent my accepting your invitation, I am, Yours very truly, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.746 F Nov.14,1919. Mr. C.M. Clay Porter, Berea College, Berea, Kentucky. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 10th instant received, in which you request information and data on the question, "Resolved, That labor unions are justified in demanding a closed shop." In reply, I am sending you pamphlet being reprint of editorials by the undersigned, which have appeared for time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-unionist a Moral Right to Work, How, When and Where he pleases", by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop", published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., listed at ten cents a copy, and to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop," a report of which appeared in the February 17th, 1905, issue of "The Journal", Rochester, New York. I would also refer you to the enclosed list of references in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.[747] LAS:AS. November 18,1919. Mr. B. A. Larger, Secretary-Treasurer United Garment Workers of America, 117 Bible House, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer Joe Danielson, 704 1/2 Third Avenue, Bradley Beach, N.J. in a communication to me states that the opportunity is ripe for the organization of the garment factories in his vicinity. I have told Organizer Danielson I would bring the matter to your attention with the request that you communicate with him direct. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[748] LL November 14, 1919. Mr. Patrick Duffy, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Mansion House, Reading,Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith please find copy of letter received from C. W. Crider, Financial Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 15938, Waynesboro, together with carbon copy of my reply, both of which are self-explanatory. Please let me have your report and recommendations regarding this local's request for extension of benefits, to be submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration. With kind regards and thanking you for giving this matter attention, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.749 COPY FEDERAL LABOR UNION NO. 15938 Nov. 11, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Pres., A. F. of L., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Federal Labor Union #15938 A. F. of L. located at Waynesboro, Pa., having been on strike for the past twelve weeks and having received strike benefits for six weeks, the last benefits being paid on Nov. 11th. The strike is still in progress and the prospects of getting a settlement in the near future is brighter than at any period of the strike. The Machinists, Blacksmiths, and Boilermakers have returned to work without getting anything and members of their men are being laid off from the fact that the Moulders, Patternmakers, Carpenters, Painters and Federal Labor Union are still on strike and determined to win and we earnestly request you for an extension of our strike benefits for two or three weeks more and if that is done I feel safe in saying that our trouble will settle satisfactorily. Hoping that you can see your way clear to grant this request and advise me. With best wishes, Fraternally yours, (Signed) C. W. CRIDER, Fin. Sec., Federal Labor Union 15938.750 LL November 14, 1919. Mr. C W. Crider, Financial Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 15938, 250 Garfield St., Waynesboro, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 11th received and contents carefully noted. You state that your strike is still in progress and ask that benefits be extended to the members of your local; that the prescribed amount of six week's benefits, according to the Constitution, have expired. Let me say, in reply, that I am taking this matter up with General Organizer, Patrick F. Duffy, Mansion House, Reading, Pa., and just as soon as report is received, the matter will be submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration and you will be promptly advised of their decision in the matter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[751] LL November 14, 1919. Mr. Joseph Richie, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 823-24 Heed Bldg., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 13th received and contents carefully noted. You give report of your investigation of the demands of Horse Hair Dressers' Union No. 12889, regarding changing from piece work wage to a week work wage. I note your statement that at a special meeting held November 12th, the subject matter was considered and that by two-thirds majority vote they decided to withdraw their demands for the week work and continue under the piece work system, as they had just gone through a strike of five week's duration and felt that in order to gain this week wage, they would have to go on strike again and are not prepared for same, but would hold the matter in abeyance until the members become better acquainted with the proposition, and probably will submit change from the piece work to the week work some time in the near future. I thank you for giving this matter your prompt attention and trust when the local is ready to take up this change in their schedule, you will give them all the advice and attention you can. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.752 LL November 14, 1919. Mr. James J. Forrester, President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, 408-11 A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith you will please find copy of letter received from Mr. John Jackson, Secretary, Freight Handlers' Union No. 16900, 703 E. Lee St., Greensboro, N. C. Please let me have your advice regarding this matter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.753 COPY. John Jackson, 703 E. Lee St. Freight Handlers' Union No. 16900, Greensboro, N. C. Nov. 12, 1919. Dear Sir: We are asking you to give us your information about what to do. We work from 7:30 a. m. until 8 and 9 o'clock at night and they just give us straight time for it, when they ought to give us time and half time for over-time and here is what I want you to help us out on. We want 8 hours per day and we want the same for 8 hours as we are getting now for 16 hours and we dont know what to do until we hear from you all. Please write at once and let me know what to do so I willcome to a close. Looking to hear from you soon, Yours, (Signed) JOHN JACKSON.754 LL November 14, 1919. Mr. John Jackson, Secretary. Freight Handlers' Union No. 16900, 703 E. Lee St., Greensboro, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 12th received and contents noted. Replying I beg to advise that I am taking this matter up with President James J. Forrester, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, 408-11 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C., for his information and advice. As soon as I hear from him, I will write you further. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President. American Federation of Labor.755 LL November 14, 1919. Mr. J. E. Wigger, Secretary, Tin, Steel, Iron & Granite Ware Workers Local No. 10943, 1719 D Street, Granite City, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 3rd received and contents noted. You return receipt for $6.00, which was credited to your local for per capita tax by mistake. Same should be refund on strike benefits. Enclosed herewith please find receipt for $6.00, as refund on strike benefits. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.756 LAS:AS. November 14,1919 Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary-Treasurer Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Drawer 99, Lafayette, INDIANA. Dear Sir and Brother: Your organization recommended to reveive a volunteer organize commission for the United States on May 5, 1919 Brother E. A. Chamberl Mail addressed to him at Steubenville, Ohio is unclaimed, and I would appreciate your furnishing this office with Organizer Chamberlain's address if he is still active in the work. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Lab757 LAS:AS. November 14,1919. Mr. C. P. Davis,President Central Labor Union, P.O.Box 17, High Point, N.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 11th received and contents noted. You ask if the Central Labor Union pays per capita tax for each local union to the State Federation of Labor. Permit me to advise that the local unions pay their per capita tax direct to the State Federation of Labor, and, therefore, the Central Labor Union is in no way responsible for the same. I suggest that you write to Secretary C. G. Worley, State Federation of Labor, Box 652, Asheville, North Carolina, and I am sure that he will forward you the constitution, which will give you full information. Wishing the Central Labor Union every success, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.758 LAS:AS. November 14,1919. Mr. C. L. Shamp, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, 3615 North 24th St., Omaha, NEBR. Dear Sir and Brother: On July 21st, 1919 you recommended to receive a volunteer organizer's commission for the United States Mr. James Karr, Box 691, Minot, N. D. Mail addressed to him as above is returned to this office unclaimed. I would appreciate your advising me if Brother Karr is still active in the work, and if so kindly furnish his home address so that further communications from this office will reach him promptly. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.759 LAS:AS. November 14,1919. Mr. John J. Joyce, Secretary-Treasurer International Longshoremen's Association, 702 Brisbane Building, Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: On February 19th, 1917 your organization recommended to receive a volunteer organizer's commission Brother J. A. Madsen, 1767 Fiske Street, Portland, Oregon. Mail addressed as above is returned to this office unclaimed, and I would appreciate your advising me if organizer Madsen is still active in the work, and if so I would appreciate your advising me of his correct address. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[760] LAS:AS. November 14,1919. Mr. Fred J. Clark, Organizer American Federation of Labor, West Shore, Catskill, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 11th received and contents noted with interest. In accordance with your request there is being forwarded to you under separate cover a package of organizer's letterheads. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor761 Washington, D. C. November 14, 1919. Mr. Grant Hamilton, 3340 West 34th Avenue, Denver, Colorado. You undoubtedly have copy printed proceedings Buffalo Convention, American Federation of Labor. Please read matter under caption High Cost of Living beginning at ninety one and telegraph me night letter collect your recollection upon statements regarding assurances given that provisions of Lever Act would not be applied to wage workers activities with reference [how] wages, hours and conditions of employment. Samuel Gompers. Charge A.F.of L.[762] WCR:EJL November 15, 1919. Mr. M. P. Alifas President, District #44 International Asso. Machinists, Room [?], Kenois Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter with enclosure of resolutions adopted opposing the transfer of the ownership of the West India Islands from Great Britain to the United States, received. You ask that we acquaint the President of the United States with the terms of the resolution. Inquiry at the State Department brought this information: That there is no knowledge of any such movement in progress and that where the story came from in the newspapers it was impossible to tell. With kind regards, I remain, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*763*] HMW:WCR. Nov. 15, 1919. Mr. P.B. Loftus, Secretary, Central Labor Union, Box 106, Blackwell, Okla. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your communication enclosing Constitution and By-Laws received. You ask for approval. Section 1, Article I should be changed by the addition of "affiliated with the American Federation of Labor". Section 12 and 13 of Article 2 should be amended by the insertion of the following: "He shall give bond in a security company through the American Federation of Labor." Section 2 of Article 3 should be amended by adding the following: "This does not apply to salaried officers of unions." Section 1 of Article 5 should be eliminated. Other sections of the Constitution provides for dues and fines, while the proceeds of entertainments would naturally go into the treasury. Section 3 is unconstitutional. No assessment can be levied without the consent of the local unions. Section 1 of Article 10 should be amended by adding "in a security company through the American Federation of Labor." With these changes your Constitution will be approved. I am returning same with this letter. With best wishes for yourself and the organization, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Encl.76 VLY November 13, 1919 Mr. P. S. Combs, City Engineers, Department of Public Works, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir: Your letter of October 31 was duly received, but it has been impossible for me to make reply until now. You say that there was a conference held in your office recently with the business agents of the various local unions whose members are employed by the Department of Public Works of Chicago. The object of the conference was to determine certain questions of jurisdiction. You then go into the disputed points of jurisdiction in detail and ask for my decision as to the points in question. You further say that the Department of Public Works employes are all members of their respective unions, and that the department conforms to union scales and union hours. Let me say in reply that the President of the American Federation of Labor has no power to determine the jurisdiction of any affiliated organization or any member of any affiliated organization. Each national and international union is guaranteed jurisdiction over the conduct of its own affairs. The usual method followed when there arises a question of jurisdiction, is for the several unions involved to endeavor to adjust it. If they fail, then the matter goes before the Executive officers of their respective national or international organization, and as a last resort it goes to the convention of the A. F. of L. I have transmitted a copy of your letter to the executive officers of the several international unions involved in the questions you present, so that I may have the benefit of their advice. Upon receipt of the requested information, I will communicate with you further. Permit me to assure you that I shall be very glad to be helpful in any way I can in this or any other matter affecting the interests of the men and women of labor in Chicago. Yours very truly, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.765 VLY November 13,1919 Mr. James P. Noonan, President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 406 Reisch Bldg., Springfield, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which has been received from Mr. P. S. Combs, City Engineer, Department of Public Works, Chicago, Illinois. You will note that Mr. Combs refers in detail to certain questions of jurisdiction concerning the various union crafts in the service of the city of Chicago. I am referring the letter to you with the request that you give me the benefit of your advice thereon, insofar as the members of your organization are concerned. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you as promptly as convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.766 COPY-VLY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS CHICAGO BUREAU OF ENGINEERING P. S. COMBS City Engineers Oct. 31, 1919. Hon. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: On Tuesday, October 28th, a conference was held in my office, with the business agents of the various union crafts in the service of the city. The object of the meeting was to determine certain questions of jurisdictional control. Among the most important questions were the following: Has the Machinists' Union jurisdiction over the repair of all kinds of machinery, including hoisting engines, steam rollers, ditch diggers, etc., or have the members of the various operating engineers' Unions the right to claim the repair of their machines after the close of the operating season, and during the operating season have they the right to overhaul their machines and send such parts to the machine shop as require machining, or can the machinists demand the taking down, repair and reassembling of their machines? Just what is the jurisdictional control of the machinists, mill wrights, electricians, machinery movers and structural iron workers? This question is asked, due to a controversy that has arisen as to where the work of the one craft is to leave off and the work of the other craft commence. In brief, is it the duty of the millwright to handle, erect, or lever a bridge tree where the same is of structural material? Is it the duty of the machinery mover to haul a motor or electrically operated unit to one of our plants and put the same on its base, whether on the main floor or on an elevated bracket, and at what point does the work of the electrician commence? This same question has come up many times in relation to where the work of the machinery mover and the work of the machinist is to commence in the placing of the machinery. Is it under the control of the structural iron workers to frame, erect and dismantle temporary wooden bent structures required for the erection of permanent steel work? If not, what portion of this work, under your rules, rightfully belongs to the carpenter? In our municipal repair shops we have a large division set aside for automobile repair work where the question of jurisdictional control is continually in controversy. Is the repair work, overhauling, adjusting tools, etc., on an automobile considered strictly machinists work, or has the Union auto767 -2- truck driver the right to work upon his car in matters of adjustment, and if so is it the duty of the machinists to do such machine work as is necessary for this repair? In the overhaulilng of a car, which is primarily machinists' work and yet where due to removing the motor it is necessary to remove the ignition system, upon which, however, there is no xxxx new work required, is it necessary that the machinist remove the motor and that the electrician be required to remove the ignition system, and again in like manner these two crafts replace the same? Or, should the overhauling of the car be primarily on an ignition system, the work upon which might require the removal of some parts which could be rightfully claimed as belonging to the machinists, must the electrician call in a machinist to make these removals. Theseare very small matters, but they cause continual dissention at our shops. The machinists take off a rod or portion of the car which has been bent or broken, the blacksmith refuses to weld or straighten the same, claiming that he should have removed, repaired and replaced that portion. This again works a great hardship. Instead of being able to put two competent union men on a car, under these above mentioned conditions often six or seven different men work on the same car. May I say that our conference was entirely harmonious and that, so far as the representatives of all the various crafts in the city are concerned, they have been giving me every assistance possible, and I am endeavoring to bring about the very best possible conditions for the laboring man, keeping in mind, however, service and efficiency in our several departments. It was the consensus of opinion at our conference that I should address this communication to you, requesting specific instructions on these matters and asking that you send me a copy of the working rules of all the different unions, as we have almost every known craft in our employ also asking that, as far as you can give me specific instructions wherein these working rules are not clear or appear to overlap. It was agreed that, in addition to my writing this letter, Mr. Fry of the Machinists' Union, Mr. Dubay of the Steam Roller Engineers, and several of the other gentlemen would also write you. We all feel that, since at this time there are no disputes to be settled, it would be a wise time to take up the entire subject and have it settled before a specific case arises. May I say that all employes of the city are Union. We pay the Union scale and comply with all the Union rules. We employ in this Bureau between 3000 and 4000 men continuously in all branches of work, and so far as the work in our municipal shops is concerned it is just a little different from that of the ordinary shop, as we have almost all branches - manufacturing and repair - included therein, and all men are intended to work in harmony as one Union. Your immediate and detailed reply will be greatly appreciated. Thanking you in advance, I beg to remain Yours very truly, (signed) P. S. Combs, City Engineer768 VLY November 13, 1919. Mr. William H. Johnston, President, International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C., Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which has been received from Mr. P. S. Combs, City Engineer, Department of Public Works of the city of Chicago, Illinois. You will note that he refers in detail to certain questions of jurisdiction concerning the various crafts in the service of the city of Chicago. I am referring the letter to you with the request that you give me the benefit of your advice upon this matter, insofar as it applies to the International Association of Machinists. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you promptly, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[769] VLY November 13,1919. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America, 222 East Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which has been received from Mr. P. S. Combs, City Engineer, Department of Public Works of the city of Chicago, Illinois. You will note that he refers in detail to certain questions of jurisdiction concerning the various union crafts in the service of the city of Chicago. I am referring this letter to you with the request that you give me the benefit of your advice upon this subject, insofar as it concerns members of your organization. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you at your early convenience, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[770] VLY November 13,1919. Mr. Milton Snellings, President, International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers, 6334 Yale Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which has been received from Mr. P. S. Combs, City Engineer, Department of Public Works of the city of Chicago, Illinois. You will note that he refers in detail to certain questions of jurisdiction concerning the various union crafts in the service of the city of Chicago. I am referring the letter to you with the request that you give me the benefit of your advice upon this matter, in which the members of your organization are involved. With best wishes and hoping to hear from you promptly, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[771] November 15, 1919. Mr. Benjamin Schlesinger, President, International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, 31 Union Square, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Immediately upon receipt of your letter of the 14th instant, I requested my Secretary, Mr. Oyster, to go in person to the Passport Bureau of the State Department in reference to your application for a passport to attend the International Conference of Tailors' Organizations at Amsterdam, and to request that it be given special consideration and expedited. He learned that your application had been received at the State Department this morning, and while he was there it was approved and put on its course for final issue. He was informed that it would be forwarded to you direct in about three days. With kindest regards and best wishes for a pleasant and successful trip, believe me, Yours fraternally, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.772 November 15, 1919. Mr. John Marnen, 677 Washington St., Meadville, Pa. Senator Cummins states he will insist upon his bill being acted upon soon as Peace Treaty is disposed of in Senate. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Chg. A. F. of L.773 Washington, D. C., Nov. 15,1919. Mr. John A. Stewart, 233 Broadway, New York City. Telegram received. Please have ticket sent to Continental Hotel Forty First and Broadway New York. I shall be there Monday. SAMUEL GOMPERS. CHARGE A. F. of L.774 Washington, D.C., Nov.15, 9 Perley Morse Trear 61 Broadway New York City. Telegram received. Please have ticket sent to Continental Hotel Forty First and Broadway New York. I shall be there Monday. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. of L.775 Washington, D. C., November 15,1919 John O. Walsh, 170 Fair Oaks Street, San Francisco, California. Shipyard Laborers' union number fifteen thousand four hundred and thirty has made application for benefits from Federation Defense Fund. There appears a peculiar condition particularly by reason of the union paying upon seven members only for the month of May, nineteen hundred nineteen, when they paid for a much larger number of members before and after. It is the desire of the Executive Council to do justice but cannot make payment based upon so peculiar a condition. Please make thorough investigation of these matters and also as to the number of members who have been in continuous good standing in the union for the past year. Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L.[776] F Nov.14,1919. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, Treasurer American Federation of Labor, 222 East Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: Finding that there is such a great amount of work which requires my individual and immediate attention as to prevent my affixing my signature to each and every warrant for the month of October 1919, I have authorized the use of a rubber stamp, being a facsimile of my signature, upon warrants as follows: Warrant #162 10 October 1, 1919 to and including Warrant, #16723, October 31, 1919, amounting to $83,491.28. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*777*] LFL. November 15,1919 Sir:- Today I received a telegram from the President of the Washington State Federation of Labor representing the entire labor movement of the State of Washington, as follows:- "Seattle,Wash., Nov.14, 1919. Samuel Gompers, A.F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. The tragedy at Centralia the other day wherein four returned service men were killed by the insane I.W.W. has aroused an extreme state of mind throughout the state which is being taken advantage of by the open shop forces and a strong effort is being made through inflammatory publicity to fasten responsibility for it on the legitimate labor movement. The situation is delicate and dangerous. Yesterday the office of the Union Record was raided and publications stopped for five hours while all files and records were examined and some confiscated by the local department of justice. The editor and two members board of control were arrested but later released on five thousand dollar bail. Publications were resumed in the evening under permission of district attorney but without further warning place was again closed indefinitely today before afternoon issue was off press. Paper has been persuing rational and constructive policy for some time and I have read nothing in it in recent weeks that would justify any action against it. Triple alliance was growing rapidly and bidding fair to become a force politically on behalf of labor and opposition was expressing alarm. Paper was greatest medium for publicity and member of board of control arrested was strongest candidate in race. He is one of the most conservative of men and a strong A.F. of L. man. Probably no significance to this but would bear investigation and suggest that matter be looked into by Federal Government Department. Will keep you informed of developments. W. M. Short." In compliance with Mr. Short's request I present the matter to you in the earnest hope that you may direct an investigation to be made. Respectfully yours, Sam'l Gompers, Honorable A. Mitchell Palmer.[778] Washington, D. C., William M. Short, 508 Maynard Building, Seattle, Washington Have submitted to Department of Justice matter contained in your telegram Please keep me advised. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. of L.[779] VLY November 13,1919. Princess Julia Cantacuzene Speransky, Hotel Buckingham New York City. Dear Madam: Your kind letter of November [?2] addressed to my wife, Mrs. Gompers, was duly received. The courtesy of the invitation which you extend on behalf of the American Central Committee for Russian Relief in asking that Mrs. Gompers name be used as one of the patronesses of the society, is deeply appreciated. However, inasmuch as Mrs. Gompers has been an invalid for more than a year, and is quite ill at the present time, it is simply impossible for her to undertake any activities or assume any responsibilities, no matter how much she wishes to do so. I regret, therefore that Mrs. Gompers is unable to accept your kind invitation. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers.[780] Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. W. Weisgal, Managing Editor, Maccabaean Mazazine, 55 Fifth Avenue, New York City, N. Y. Dear Sir: Replying to your letter of recent date in which you request copy of the A. F. of L. History, Encyclopedia and Reference Book for review, I am very glad to send it to you under separate cover I would be grateful if you would send me copy of your magazine in which the book is reviewed. Yours very truly, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.781 Nov. [??], 1919. Mr. C. G. Patterson, Secretary, International Framers Association, 306 Judge Building, Salt Lake City, Utah. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor in conjunction with the four railroad brotherhoods, which [??????????????] affiliated to the American Federation of Labor, has issued a call to the executives of the affiliated national and international unions to meet in conference at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. at ten o'clock on the morning of December 13th. The representatives of the several Farmers Organizations who are located here in this city participated in a conference with the officers of the A. F. of L. and the railroad brotherhoods when the matter of calling the conference on December 13th was considered. While expressing their sympathy with the purpose of the conference, yet they thought that they did not have the authority to join in the call for the conference. They advised us that the conventions of the several organizations of Farmers would be held within the next thirty days. It was thereupon unanimously agreed that a formal invitation should be extended to you and through your your convention to have the Sugar Beet Growers suitably represented in the conference of December 13th and it is both my duty and my pleasure extend that invitation. The conference will consider the political situation in the industrial and legislative field and endeavor to agree upon fundamental principles and the adoption of a program which all will accept in performing their duties as citizens and at the same time maintain the right of free men in order to conserve human interest and welfare. Among subjects to be discussed is not only cooperation between the farmers organizations and the organizations of workers in industry and transportation but also the cooperation in selling of products produced by the farmers and the purchase of products necessary to farmers. I most earnestly hope that your organization will consider favorably the invitation now extended and that I may hear from you782 Mr. C.C. Patterson--2 at the earliest possible moment advise me of your acceptance. With assurance of my high regard, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[783] F EP Nov.14,1919. Miss Grace E. McConnell, 1110 North 30th St., Birmingham, Ala. Dear Madam: Mr. Gompers desires that I acknowledge for him receipt of your letter of November 6, together with letter of recommendation and "P.O. Order for $5.00 to assist suffering miners' families." Mr. Gompers thanks you for your generous and spontaneous action and in view of the fact that the miners' strike has been called off, in obedience to the orders of the court, he will cause your contribution to be used in helping to sustain the suffering families of those striking in the iron and steel industries. Your letter will again be placed before him for further attention to the other matters set forth therein just soon as the heavy demands now being made upon his time are somewhat relieved. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.784 X November 15, 1919. Henry F. Browning, xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx 3007 Arunah Avenue Baltimore Maryland Letter received. Regret xxxxxx time so brief impossible to make arranegments comply with your request. I have to leave Washington tomorrow to keep important engagements. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. of L.[785] LL November 14, 1919. Mr. John Scott, Secretary-Treasurer Railway Employes Department of the AlF. of L., Rooms 505-508 A.F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your communication of the 30th ult. quoting motion introduced by Brother W.S. Stone, -- "That the American Federation of Labor be requested to extend invitation to the Non Partisan League to take part in the conference on December 13th, and that the committee grant Mr. Hampton a hearing. " - was referred to this office by Secretary Morrison. In reply I quote below action of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Tuesday, October 21st: "It was decided that a national conference be called by the American Federation of Labor to which shall be invited representatives of the national and international unions and the railroad brotherhoods and the Farmers' organizations for the purpose of considering legislation affecting labor and farmers." At a later date the Executive Council decided that not more than two delegates from each national or international union and brotherhood be invited - one to be the president and the other the secretary and that, in case the secretary is unable to attend, a vice-president be sent in his place. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[786] LL November 17, 1919. Mr. Henry Streifler, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 36 Northumberland Ave., Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I thank you for your letter of November 14th with information regarding Warehouse Employes' Union No. 15480, also for copy of their agreement upon which their recent strike was settled. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.787 LL November 17, 1919. Mr. Thomas J. Welch, Financial Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 12901, 611 North 15th St., Murphysboro, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 13th received and contents noted. You state that the wage scale which you submitted to this office for approval, contained the name of Organizer Murphy. You are correct in this statement, but it is necessary to report on your new scale together with recommendations, must be received from Organizer Murphy to be submitted to the Executive Council for action and as soon as same is received, your scale will be submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.788 LL November 17, 1919. Mr. Patrick Duffy, General Organizer, American Federation of Labor c/o Mansion House, Reading, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 15th received and contents carefully noted. You make report on the request of the Federal Labor Union No. 15939 for additional strike benefits and I note your statement that the conditions of this strike have changed since the early part of last week; that the molders, patternmakers and carpenters have decided to return to work, which would make the securing of a settlement for Federal Labor Union all most impossible and that you have advised them if all the other trades go back to work on November 17th, they should call the strike off also. I also note your recommendation that one week's additional benefits be allowed. I am submitting your report, together with their request to the Executive Council and as soon as a decision is reached on same, you will be promptly advised. Thanking you for giving this matter such prompt attention and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.789 LL November 17, 1919. Mr. John O. Walsh, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 117 Fair Oaks St., San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: As per my letter of November 15th, I am enclosing herewith copy of letter I have just written to A. Jaggi, Secretary, Shipyard Laborers' Union No. 15599, your city, with full information regarding filling in the strike blank and individual receipts. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.790 LL November 17, 1919. Mr. A. Jaggi, Secretary-Treasurer, Shipyard Laborers' Union No. 15599, #1 Labor Temple, San Francisco, Calif. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 4th received and contents noted. Your request for strike benefits was re-submitted to the Executive Council at a special meeting in this city, November 9-12, 1919, for their consideration. In accordance with the decision of the Executive Council, I mailed to Organizer John C. Walsh, of 117 Four Oaks St., San Francisco, on November 15th, check for $1,932, being strike benefits on 322 members, as per list you submitted to this office under date of November 4th. This check was made payable to Organizer Walsh, inasmuch as the bond of your Business Agent expired October 15, 1919. I desire to call your attention to the fact that it is provided in Section 5 of Article 13 of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor that each local union shall require its treasurer to give proper bond for the safe-keeping and disbursement of all funds of the local. If your local has not already done so, I trust immediate steps will be taken to have the financial officers bonded in conformity with the Constitution. I am forwarding you, under separate cover, the regular strike report blank, together with individual receipts in duplicate. This report blank must be penciled in with the names of the members entitled to strike benefits, giving dates of their initiation and other information asked thereon. The individual receipts must be signed in duplicate by the members receiving benefits and the original ones returned to this office. When those original receipts are received, they will be check back with the list of members which you submit and if same is found correct, check for the second week's benefits will be forwarded to you.791 -2- If there is any information you desire regarding the filling out of the strike blanks, I would suggest that you get in touch with Organizer Walsh, who will furnish you all the information necessary. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.792 EP November 14, 1919. Messrs. N.F. Matteson, J.W. Hudlow, E. H. Bauer, H.Bogowd, 636 G. Street, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter on the 11th instant addressed to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, enclosing three dollars ($3.00) in cash and the following checks; to be used in behalf of the striking miners "or in such other way as the A.F. of L. may choose to use it." H. Bogowd $10.00 N.F. Matteson 5.00 J.W. Hudlow 5.00 For your generous and spontaneous action I desire to express to you my hearty thanks and sincere appreciation. You have no doubt seen that the officers of the coal miners have obeyed the order of the Federal Court to issue a notice to the miners declaring off the coal strike. I will, therefore, cause your contributions to be used in helping to sustain the suffering families of those on strike in the iron and steel industry. With kindest regards and best wishes and assuring you of my great appreciation of your action, believe me Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.793 EP November 14, 1919 Mr. T. Morey Hodgman, Mgr., The Clark Teachers' Agency, Exchange Bank Bldg., St. Paul, Minn. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 1st instant, with enclosure, was duly received, but on account of the unusually heavy demands upon me since that time I have not been able to give it earlier attention. I thank you, however, for the moral and financial support contained in your letter and will cause your check for Five Dollars ($5.00) to be used in helping to sustain the suffering families of those striking in the iron and steel industries. With kind regards and best wishes and assuring you of my great appreciation of your act, believe me Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.794 EP November 14, 1919 Mr. Darwin J. Meserole, 190 Montague St., Brooklyn, N. Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 1st instant, with enclosure, was duly received, but on account of the unusually heavy demands upon me since that time I have not been able to give it earlier attention. I thank you, however, for the moral and financial support contained in your letter and will cause your check for Five Dollars ($5.00) to be used in helping to sustain the suffering families of those striking in the iron and steel industries. With kind regards and best wishes and assuring you of my great appreciation of your act, believe me Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.795 LAS:AS. November 11,1919. Mr. William Short, President State Federation of Labor, Mutual Life Building, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication from the Bellingham Central Labor Council recommending to receive a volunteer organizer's commission Mrs. Julia E. Banner. Kindly advise me relative to this recommendation and if the same is satisfactory to the Washington State Federation of Labor. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.796 LAS:AS. November 11,1919. Mr. Santiago Iglesias, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Box 270, San Juan, Porto Rico. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication from the local union of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of Mayaguez in which they recommend the appointment of Mr. Juan de Mata Vélez as a volunteer organizer for the district of Mayaguez. Kindly advise me at the earliest possible date if it is satisfactory that this commission be issued. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.November 17, Mr. George C. Childres, Financial Secretary, Tie Carriers' Union No. 15992, Box 130, Brockport, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 12th received and contents noted. You state the members of your local went out on strike November 1, 1919, the reason being that the Ayer & Lord Tie Company has not complied with your demands for an increase in wages for handling their ties. Of course you are familiar with the fact that strike benefits are not paid for the first two weeks of a strike. I am enclosing herewith blank strike roll, which should be dated the third week ending November 22, 1919. This strike roll should be filled in with the names of those members of your local who have been in continuous good standing for one year, and have the officers of your local sign this roll, attach the seal and return same to this office, when it will be checked back and the proper amount of benefits forwarded to you. I regret very much to hear that your local was forced to take this step and sincerely trust that an early settlement will be brought about. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.798 LFL. November 17, 1919 Mr. John Spargo, Nestledown, Old Bennington, Vermont. Dear Mr. Spargo:- While I was away from headquarters for two weeks you wrote to President Gompers under date of November seventh sending him a memoranda on Labor's Policy Towards Russia. Last evening President Gompers left for New York. In going through some papers on his desk I came across your letter. This is merely to let you know that your letter was received and to thank you in President Gompers' name for your suggestion. Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.799 LFL. November 17,1919 Mr. Hugh Frayne, 1416 Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Frayne:- President Gompers went to New York last night and of course, you will see him while there. I have just returned to headquarters having been away for a brief vacation. In going through an accumulation of papers on President Gompers desk I find your letter of November 11th with clipping enclosed regarding the meeting held under the auspices of the National Republican Club at which Walter Gorden Merritt spoke attacking the American Federation of Labor and you replied. Permit me to thank you in President Gompers' name for bringing the matter to his attention. He is always very glad to have such special matters as these particularly brought to his attention for as you can appreciate, his days are so crowded that press reports would otherwise escape his attention unless they are submitted to him by means of a special letter. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.800 LFL. November 17,1919 Mr. John Morrison, 25 Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. Dear Mr. Morrison:- Last evening, although it was Sunday, Mr. Gompers and I were working at the office. In going through his letters he asked me to write to you in answer to your letter of the 31st ult. and to thank you in his name for sending him the clipping from the Library Digest of November first. I have been out of the city and have not had the opportunity of seeing the Digest and but for your sending it to him specially, neither one of us would have read the article. With kind regards to you and Mrs. Morrison, I am, Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.801 LFL. November 17, 1919 Mr. W. S. Boats, 27 Pearl Street, Somerville, Massachusetts. Dear Sir:- President Gompers is grateful to you for your letter of November 12th and directs that I should thank you in his name for your letter. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.802 LFL. November 17, 1919 Mr. William English Walling, Brookside Drive, Greenwich, Connecticut. Dear Mr. Walling:- On November first I left the city for a much needed rest and remained away longer than I had anticipated. I directed, however, that should a letter come from you addressed to me that it was to be opened and the matter taken care of. That is why you have not heard from me before this as I did not return to headquarters until last Friday evening. Your suggestions, however, were taken up with President Gompers and he appreciates your writing. Thank you for the introduction to the international socialist story. I agree with you that it is most timely to publish this story in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I don't suppose, of course, it will be necessary to have any introduction to the two remaining chapters. Whenever there is anything special which you think should be brought to Mr. Gompers' attention, I would be most grateful to you for writing to me about it for I know you have some understanding of the high pressure under which Mr. Gompers and his assistants are now working at headquarters and that some matters might in this way escape his attention which it would be very helpful to him to know. Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.803 LFL. November 17, 1919 Mrs. Charles S. Noyes, Chairman, Sorosis, 5 Glen Road, Montclair, N.J. Dear Madam:- Your undated letter received and contents noted. On behalf of your club you extend to me an invitation to deliver an address under the auspices of the "Sorosis" on Monday afternoon February second, 1920 at the Waldorf Hotel, on the subject of Industrial Difficulties and How to Meet Them." It is my desire to accept your invitation if I can possibly arrange my engagements as to permit my doing so. However, I could not give you a definite reply until about the fifth or tenth of January. May I ask that you write me again about that time? Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.804 LFL. November 17,1919 Mrs. Isabella Atkinson, 1806 Mt. Vernon Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Madam:- Your letter of the 10th instant received and contents noted. I beg to advise you that a letter addressed to Mr. John I. Lewis, 1102-8 Merchants Bank Building, Indianapolis, Indiana will be received by him. You say that you have important information which you desire to communicate to him and to me. If you will address me as per the above letterhead, marking your letter confidential if you so desire, the matter will be given attention as promptly as other duties will permit. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.805 LFL. November 17, 1919 Mr. Samuel Crowther, Bayside, Long Island, N.Y. Dear Sir:- President Gompers is now in New York at the Continental Hotel, forty-first and Broadway. It is possible that you may be able to see him there. I would suggest that you call up his traveling secretary, Mr. Guy H. Oyster and see if he can make an appointment for you. Mr. Gompers will be in New York for several days. Sincerely yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*806*] F Nov.14,1919. Mr. J.H. Chillington, Secretary Central Labor Union, 12 Clinton Ave., Stanford, Conn. Dear Sir and Brother: Your undated letter addressed to Secretary Morrison has been referred to us for attention. Before I will be able to answer your inquiry I would like to know just what information you desire regarding the Standard Oil Company. I have had our records gone over but find no trace of your letter of August 20th. Trusting to hear from you further in regard to the above, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President American Federation of Labor.[*807*] November 17, 1919. Mr. Anthony J. Oliver, International Federation of Technical Engineers, Architects, and Draftsmen's Unions, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 4th received and contents noted. You submit a facsimile of the stamp which has been adopted by your organization as your Union label and which you submit for the consideration an approval of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. The matter has been submitted to the Executive Council and as soon as a conclusion has been reached, you will be promptly advised. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.[*808*] E. Nov. 17 1919. DOCUMENT #77 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. COLLEAGUES: Enclosed you will please find copies of letter addressed to Secretary Morrison by John Scott, Secretary, Railway Employes Department, under date of October 30, my reply thereto November 14, a further communication from Secretary Scott of November 15, all of which related to the request of Mr. Scott on behalf of the 14 railroad organizations that an invitation should be extended to the Non-Partisan League to attend the conference December 13. In reply to Mr. Scott's letter of the 15th instant I advised him that the matter would be submitted to the Executive Council. The Executive Council will therefore please vote upon the following: Shall an invitation be extended to the Non-Partisan League to send two representatives to attend the conference December 13? Please let me have you vote at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.809 COPY. RAILWAY EMPLOYES DEPARTMENT Office of Secretary-Treasurer Washington, D.C. Oct. 30-1919 Mr. Frank Morrison, Secty. American Federation of Labor Building. Dear Sir and Brother:- Acknowledging receipt of your circular letter of 25th inst. addressed to the Presidents of all National and International Unions, requesting that they attend the conference to be held in Washington on Decr. 13th for the purpose of taking such action as may be essential to safeguard and promote the rights, interests and freedom of the wage earners. Desire to state that this subject matter was introduced at a meeting of the fourteen railroad organizations held in the Department offices last evening, during the discussion of the matter inasmuch as the various farm organizations had been invited to appoint representatives to participate in this meeting, the following motion was unanimously adopted:- MOTION: Introduced by Bro. W.S. Stone, second by Wm. H. Johnston: "That the American Federation of Labor be requested to extend invitation to the Non-Partisan League to take part in the conference on Decr. 13th, and that committee grant Mr. Hampton a hearing." May we ask that the necessary steps be taken in this matter in compliance with the motion adopted by this body. Thanking you in anticipation of giving this your favorable consideration. With best wishes, Fraternally yours, (Signed) JOHN SCOTT Secty - Treas.810 COPY. November [??], 1919. Mr. John Scott, Secretary-Treasurer, Railway Employes Department of the A.F. of L., Rooms 505-5[?]3 A.F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your communication of the 30th ult quoting motion introduced by Brother W.S. Stone,-"That the American Federation of Labor be requested to extend invitation to the Non Partisan League to take part in the conference on December 13th, and that the committee grant Mr. Hampton a hearing."-was referred to this office by Secretary Morrison. In reply I quote below action of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, Tuesday, October 21st:- "It was decided that a national conference be called by the American Federation of Labor to which shall be invited representatives of the national and international unions and the railroad brotherhoods and the farmers' organizations for the purpose of considering legislation affecting labor and farmers. " At a later date the Executive Council decided that no[t] more than two delegates from each national and international union and brotherhood be invited - one to be the president and the other the secretary, and that, in case the secretary is unable to attend, a vice-president be sent in his place. Fraternally yours, (Signed) SAMUEL COMPERS President, American Federation of Labor.[*811*] COPY MCI. RAILWAY EMPLOYES DEPARTMENT Office of Secretary - Treasurer Washington D.C. Nov. 15-1919 Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor Building Dear Sir and Brother: I desire to acknowledge receipt of your favor of 14th inst. in reply to my letter of 30th to wherein request was made that an invitation be extended to the Non-Partisan League to take part in the conference on Decr. 13th, also that Mr. Hampton be granted a hearing. Inasmuch as you fail to state in your letter whether or not the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. have extended this invitation to the representatives of the Non-Partisan League, or intend to do so, may we request to be advised in this matter so that we can in turn communicate the information to the members of the Executive Council of the Railway Employes Department and the Executive heads of the Transportation organizations, all of whom unanimously favored the motion. Thanking you in anticipation of giving this matter your early attention. Fraternally yours, (Signed) JOHN SCOTT Secty-Treas.812 Nov. 13, 1919. Mr. Thomas Sweeney, General Secretary, Journeymen Tailors Union, E. 67th St. & Stony Island Ave. Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 3rd received and contents noted. You advise me that Mr. A. S. Gabriel of Greenville, S. C. is a member of the Journeymen Tailors Union and that as far as you know "there is no reason why an organizer's commission should not be issued to him." Before going any further into the matter your attention is called to a letter addressed to me by the Trades and Labor Council of Greenville, copy of which you will please find enclosed herein. You will note that the President of the Tailors Local Union of Greenville states that that Union classes Mr. Gabriel as a proprietor and that he is not allowed to attend the meetings of the local. Please let me have your advice regarding the matter at your earliest convenience. Now regarding your recommendation for the appointment of Louie Romanoli, of Philadelphia, let me say that while I should be glad to comply with your request, yet after consulting with Secretary Morrison as to the state of the Federation funds, it does not seem practicable at present to make the appointment of any additional organizers. The matter will be kept in mind, however, for future consideration should the opportunity be presented. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience regarding the above, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.813 GREENVILLE TRADE AND LABOR COUNCIL AMERICAN FEDERATION OF LABOR. E. L. Pickler,Secretary, Greenville, S. C. Oct. 22, 1919. Dear Mr. Gompers, President A.F. of L. Dear Sir: Your letter of 11th inst at hand, and in regard to Mr. Gabriel I will state that I had a conference with the president of the Tailors' Union Mr. Exstrun of this city, and he inform s me that Mr. Gabriel is classed as a proprietor in his Local and that he is not allowed to attend their meetings. He also states that Mr. Gabriel employs non-union help, and he is running a Mail-order Shop. Mr. Gabriel takes very little interest in affairs of the Tailors Union. The Tailors are affiliated with the Central Body, but for some reason or another they have not been attending our meetings. I could not say whether they are affiliated with the State Federation or not. You asked whether or not Mr. Gabriel is eligible to retain his commission as volunteer organizer for the A. F. of L. I don't think he is. Mr. C.H. Greene was elected organizer for this city by the State Convention A. F. of L. Wish you would give me a decision as whether or not Mr. Gabriel is qualified to hold the office of president of A. F. of L. He is not a delegate from the Tailors Union; He organized the- 2 - moving picture operators here some month ago, and he represents them at our meetings; he is not a moving picture operator and does not work at the trade. Hoping this information will be of benefit. I am waiting for your reply, I remain at Your service, E. L. Pickler814 LAS:AS. November 17,1919. Mr. Paul Toeger, Secretary The Lincoln Trade and Labor Council, 611 Decatur Street, Lincoln, ILL. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 13th received and contents noted. I shall communicate with the International Unions urging that they communicate with the local unions which, you state, do not send delegates to the Trades and Labor Council. I sincerely trust my communicate will have a good effect. May I ask you to advise me within a reasonable length of time if any of the local unions fail to send delegates? With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.815 AS. November 18,1919. Mr. J. C. Skemp, Secretary-Treasurer Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America, Drawer 99, Lafayette, Indiana. Lincoln, Illinois fails to send delegates to the Trades and Union Council. Saml Gompers.816 AS. November 17,1919. Mr. William Green, Secretary-Treasurer United Mine Workers of America, 1102 Merchants Bank Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Lincoln, Illinois fails to send delegates to the Trades and Union Council. Saml Gompers. P.S. Reference is made to Locals 224 and 815.817 AS. November 18,1919. Mr. J. W. Hays, Secretary-Treasurer International Typographical Union, Newton Claypool Bldg., Indianapolis, INDIANA. Lincoln, Illinois fails to send delegates to the Trades and Labor Council. Saml Gompers.818 AS. November 17,1919. Mr. W. D. Mahon, President Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employes of America, 104 East High St., Detroit, Michigan. Lincoln, Illinois fails to send delegates to the Trades and Union Council. Saml Gompers.819 AS. November 18,1919. Mr. George W. Perkins, President Cigarmakers' International Union of America, Nonon Building, Chicago, ILL. Lincoln, Illinois fails to send delegates to the Trades and Union Council. Saml Gompers.820 EP November 18, 1919 Mr. John J. Quinlivan, Secretary, Toledo Central Labor Union, 314 Cherry Street, Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 14 received and contents noted. I want to congratulate you upon your prompt action in response to my telegram. This prompt action on the part of the Central Labor Union was most effective and helpful in securing the enactment of the amendment for which Labor stands. I want to thank you most heartily for your prompt co-operation and help. With kindest regards to you personally and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.821 LAS:AS. November 17,1919. Mr. F. C. Cribben, Secretary District Labor Council, Labor Temple, Toronto, Ont., CANADA. Dear Sir and Brother: Communications addressed to Organizer W. V. Todd, 98 Moore Avenue, Moore Park, Toronto, Canada are returned to this office unclaimed. I would thank you to advise me if Organizer Todd is non active in the work, and if so please furnish me with his proper address. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours President, American Federation of Labor.822 LAS:AS. November 17,1919. Mr. Edmund Turner, Organizer American Federation of Labor, 262 Kennedy St., Mobile, ALA. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of our correspondence relative to your complaint that colored helpers carrying union cards are not being recognized by the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, I beg to advise that I am in receipt of a communication under date of November 13th from Mr. W. F. Kramer, Secretary-Treasurer of the Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers, and Helpers, 608 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois to the effect that Vice-President Tegtmeyer is handling this matter in an effort to arrange in some manner an adjustment of the difficulty. Brother Kramer urges patience, when every effort will be made to adjust the matter. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.823 LAS:AS. November 17,1919. Mr. F. P. Reinemeyer, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Boiler Makers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America, 309 Wyandotte Bldg., Kansas City, KANSAS. Dear Sir and Brother: On February 13th, 1919 your International Union recommended to receive an organizer's commission, Mr. Patrick Joyce, Quincy House, Boston, Massachusetts. Mail is now being returned by the Postoffice from the above address, and I would ask you to kindly furnish me his permanent address so that mail forwarded from this office may reach him promptly. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. P.S. I might state that mail addressed to Organizer A. G. Smith, Buchtel Hotel, Akron, Ohio, recommended by your organization on February 13th, 1919 is also returned to this office unclaimed.823 LFL. November 18,1919 Mr. Frank Paquin, General Vice-President, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen of America, 502-503 Hall Building, Kansas City, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother:- In reply to your letter of November 10th in which you enclosed letter from your local union No. 505 of West Somerville together with resolutions, I am sending you herewith carbon copy of my reply, which is self explanatory. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.824 LFL. November 18,1919 Mr. Frank Paquin, General Vice-President, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen of America, 502-503 Hall Building, Kansas City, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother:- In reply to your letter of November 10th in which you enclosed letter from your local union No. 505 of West Somerville together with resolutions, I am sending you herewith carbon copy of my reply, which is self explanatory. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.825 LFL. November 18,1919 Mr. William Turnbull, Recording Secretary, Bunker Hill Lodge No. 505, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen of America, 70 Conwall Avenue, West Somerville, Massachusetts. Dear Sir and Brother:- General Vice-President, Frank Paquin of the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen of America, has sent to me your letter addressed to Mr. Martin F. Ryan, General President of the Brotherhood in which you transmit letter of the Bunker Hill Lodge No. 505 regarding the withdrawal of the Labor Group from the Presidential Industrial Conference. It is gratifying to know that your local lodge supports the attitude of the Labor Group. The entire matter will be discussed very fully in the forth coming December issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST and I trust you will not fail to read that issue. Now regarding the further resolutions adopted by your lodge regarding the formation of a political labor party, your attention is called to the enclosed address which I delivered some months ago in the city of New York. This address as you will note was fully approved by the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, later at the annual convention of the Federation held in Atlantic City, N.J. in June of this year. The Executive Council in its report to the convention embodied this address and its approval. The convention fully endorsed the attitude of the undersigned and the Executive Council and it, therefore, stands as the declaration of the convention. If it would be of any help to you, I shall be very glad to have a number of copies of this address sent to you for distribution among your members. Hoping to hear from you in regard to the above, I am, with best wishes, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.826 LFL. November 18,1919 Mr. C. S. Robinson, 546 East 182nd Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Replying to your letter of November 11th, permit me to say that in all probability you can secure the statistical data you seek from the Bureau of Statistics of the United States Department of Labor. The American Federation of Labor has neither the means nor the facilities for compiling statistics other than the very limited statistics published each year in the report of the Executive Council to the annual conventions. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.827 LAS:AS. November 12,1919. Mr. H. M. Comerford, Secretary-Treasurer International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers, 6334 Yale Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: In a communication to this office from Canton, Ohio, Central Labor Union, Mr. Fred E. Lucas, Recording Secretary, 1129 Richard Place, N.W., Canton, Ohio the statement is made that Organizer O. M. Patterson has not been president of the Central Labor Union since January 11th, 1919 for the reason that he does not work at his trade. Since Brother Patterson was recommended by your international union on April 21st, 1914 as general organizer for the United States of America I would ask you to advise me if it is satisfactory to you for him to continue as organizer of the A. F. of L. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.828 LFL. November 18, 1919 Mr. Fred E. Lucas, Recording Secretary, Canton Central Labor Union, 1129 Richard Place, N. W., Canton, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your favor of November 10th received and contents noted. Permit me to state that the letter forwarded to Brother O.M.Patterson relative to the conference to be held in Washington on December 13th was sent him for the information it contained since he is one of the general organizers of the American Federation of Labor. When the American Federation of Labor decided to issue the call for the conference of December 13th, it further decided that the invitation should be sent only to the presidents and secretaries of the national and international unions, to the railroad brotherhoods and to the farmers organizations. Therefore, under the action of the Executive Council central labor unions, as such, will not be permitted representation in the conference. Relative to the list of officers you forwarded, I find that you are recorded on our list correctly as Recording-Secretary of the Labor Union and the other officers names will be filed for future reference. You state that Brother O. M. Patterson has not been President of the Central Labor Union since January 1st, 1919 for the reason that he does not work at his trade. Our records show that he was issued a commission as General Organizer of the United States of America on April 21, 1914 upon the recommendation of the International Union of Steam and Operating Engineers. I am writing that organization today asking if it is not satisfactory that Brother Patterson continue as representative of the American Federation of Labor. With best wishes, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.828 LFL. November 18, 1919 Mr. J. J. Meshan, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 11796, 314 Spencer Street, Monterey, California. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 6th received and contents noted. You say that at a recent meeting of your union you were instructed to write to me regarding the volunteer organizer in that district, Mr. A. L. Mathis and to say that your local recommends the appointment of G. W. McConnald, member of the Painters' Union in place of Mr. Mathis. Our records show that Mr. Mathis was issued a volunteer organizer's commission on March 12, 1910 upon the recommendation of Carpenters' Local Union No.1451. Before taking any steps in the matter May I suggest that you should confer with the secretary of the Carpenters Local Union 1451 and then you and he write me further in the matter. There is no reason why there should not be more than one volunteer organizer in your locality. I should be very glad to conform to the wishes of the organized labor movement of Monterey as represented by Federal Labor Union No. 11796, by Carpenters' Local Union No. 1451 and by the other local unions. Hoping to hear from you further and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.830 LFL. November 18, 1919 Mr. Calvin W. Trowbridge, 18 Yale Station, New Haven, Connecticut. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 4th instant addressed to President Gompers was duly received but owing to the very great pressure of vital and important matters requiring his undivided attention he was not able to reach your letter until this date. He directs that I should acknowledge its receipt and give you such information as is available to be helpful to you. You ask for data relating to the history of the American Federation of Labor and President Gompers in connection with the A. F. of L. Your attention is called to the enclosed list of pamphlets and publications published by this office. It is quite probable that you will find in the Yale Library bound copies of the official printed proceedings of the convention of the American Federation of Labor and bound copies of the AMErican Federationist, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which President Gompers is Editor. Should you desire any of the publications listed on the enclosed lists, please write direct to Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary of the A. F. of L. at the aboveaddress and your order will be given prompt attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.831 LFL. November 18, 1919 Mr. Carter Rice, 35 Wendell Avenue, Schenectady, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 19th instant received and contents noted. You say that the Lincoln Debating Club, of which you are the faculty critic, is engaged in a debate on the subject "Resolved, that Labor Unions Promote the Best Interests of the American Public" and that in preparing for the debate you find that you will need the following statistics: 1. The number of union men who died in service in the late war. 2. The number of union men enlisted in the war 3. The number subscribing to and the amount subscribed in all the Liberty Loans by union men. I regret not being able to give you the information you seek. The organizations composing the American Federation of Labor now have a member 3,954,759. There are 112 national and international unions, 46 state federations of labor, 873 city central bodies. There are 1,292 local trade and federal labor unions affiliated to the A.F. of L. and 34,000 local unions affiliated to the national and international unions. Of course you appreciate the fact that to compile the above statistics for these various organizations would require a large staff of clerks, a great amount of time and a large expenditure of money. We have not the time nor the facilities nor the means for compiling such statistics. However, if you were to write direct to some of the larger national and international unions they would, I am sure, be in a position to give you if not the exact figures, at least a fairly accurate estimate. Enclosed is a list of these organizations together with the names and addresses of their respective secretaries. The larger organizationswhich I have in mind to whom you might desire to write, I have checked. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure. - List.832 LFL. November 18,1919 Mr. Lincoln Avery, Attorney-at-Law, Stewart Block, Port Huron, Michigan. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 13th received and contents noted. You ask that I should suggest the name of some capable representative of labor of Michigan to whom you could extend an invitation to address the Men's Club of the Grace Episcopal Church of Port Huron, which gives a dinner to the men of the Church and their guests once a month for eight months during the year. As you will note from the above letterhead, one of the vice-presidents of the American Federation of Labor, Mr. W. D. Mahon, is located in Detroit, Michigan. I would suggest that you extend an invitation to him. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.833 LFL. November 18,1919 Mr. E. R. McAdam, Secretary, Tri-City Building Trades, Allied, Davenport, Iowa. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 13th received and contents noted. You will please accept for yourself and convey to the officers and delegates of the Tri-City Allied Building Trades my appreciation of their action taken in regard to the steel strike and which you convey to me. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.834 LFL. November 17, 1919 Mr. Clinton L. Caldwell, Attorney and Counselor at Law, 1507 Chemical Building, St.Louis, Missouri. Dear Sir:- Your letter of recent date was duly received. I thank you for the suggestions you offer regarding the situation in the mining industry and will see to it that they reach the proper officials. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.835 LFL. Nov. 17,1919 Mr. M. H. Wilcoxson, 375 Multnomah Street, Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 31st was duly received in which you enclosed amnuscript for proposed booklet entitled "The Day of Labor - or Labor Rules," which you suggest should be published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I thank you for submitting your manuscript to me but I feat it is not available for the columns of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I therefore return it herewith and thank you for having submitted it to me. Very truly yours, President, Saml Gompers. American Federation of Labor.836 LAS:AS. November 17,1919. Mr. W. J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer Building Trades Department, 501 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: Organizer H. B. Howell, Box 1208, Ranger, Texas desires information relative to the formation of a Building Trades Council in the above town. I have informed Organizer Howell that I would communicate with you requesting that you forward full information. Thanking you in advance for compliance with the request, I am Fraternally yours, President, Saml. Gompers. American Federation of Labor.837 LAS:AS. November 17,1919. Hr. H. B. Howell, Organizer American Federation of Labor, Box 1308, Ranger, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 8th received and contents noted. I am glad to receive your encouraging report as to conditions in Ranger. I note you state that you have communicated with us asking for information relative to the formation of the Building Trades Council, but there is no record of any previous communication being received. However, I am today writing to the Building Trades Department, American Federation of Labor, William J. Spencer, Secretary-Treasurer, 301 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C. requesting that he forward you full information. If there is any further assistance this office can render in the work kindly let me know. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.838 3. Nov. 18, 1919. Mr. John Scott, Secretary-Treasurer, Railway Employes Department, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of the 15th instant received and contents noted. In reply I beg to advise you that I have submitted to the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor your suggestion that an invitation be extended to the Non-Partisan League to have two representatives in attendance on the conference December 13th. I shall advise you just as soon as a decision is reached by the Executive Council. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.839 LFL. November 18, 1919 Mr. W. B. Graham, General Chairman Federated Crafts, I. & G.M.Railroad, 913 Louisiana Street, Palestine, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of October 28th received and contents noted. I corresponded with Acting President J.P.Noonan of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers regarding the situation in Palestine in connection with the injunction served against the Electrical Workers and in due course of time the entire matter will be placed before the Department of Justice. Of course it is unnecessary for me to assure you that I shall be glad to be helpful to you in any way within my power. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.840 LFL. November 17,1919 Mr. J. P. Noonan, Acting President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 406-418 Reisch Building, Springfield, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 12th received and contents noted. I assume that in copying the injunction served on the Telephone workers of Palestine, Texas you are having more than one copy made. If so, please send me two copies so that I may have one to submit to the Department of Justice and the other to be held for our records at headquarters. Just as soon as I hear from you, I will take the matter up with the Department of Justice and will keep you advised as to what reply I receive. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. 841 LFL. November 17,1919 Sir:- Permit me to hand you herewith copies of letters addressed to me by Mr. W. B. Graham of Palestine, Texas, John P. Noonan, Acting President of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Mr. John Scott, Secretary-Treasurer of the Railway Employes Department of the American Federation of Labor. You will also find enclosed copy of the injunction referred to by Mr. Graham in the letter. These matters are all submitted to you in compliance with the requests of my correspondents and in the hope that the situation will receive the attention of the United States Department of Justice. Respectfully yours, President, American Federation of Labor. Honorable A. Mitchell Palmer, Attorney General, United States Department of Justice, Washington, D. C. Enclosure.842 LL November 26, 1919. Mr. Jas. J. Forrester, President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Clerks, 409-11 A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I thank you for your letter of November 17th and the information contained therein, regarding the Freight Handlers' Union No. 16900, of Greensboro, North Carolina. I am transmitting this information to Secretary Jackson of that local. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.[*843*] VLY November 18, 1919 Mr. George Allen Youille, 149 West Summit Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota. Dear Sir: President Gompers is absent from the city on official business. As you surmise in your letter of November 10th, he has been so very crowded with immediately pressing and vital matters both here and in other cities that he has not had the opportunity of reading your letter, your pamphlet, and many other letters and documents which are being held upon his desk for his personal attention. I shall not lose sight of your letter and hope that at some opportunity time in the near future he will have the opportunity of reading your pamphlet Thanking you again for writing me. I regret that circumstances are as above indicated, but the pressure under which President Gompers is working at present is tremendous. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers844 EP November 18, 1919 Mr. Sidney Burt, Secretary, The National Brotherhood Workers of America, 494 Louisiana Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 14, addressed to President Gompers, is received. He is absent from the city on official business. I showed your letter to Secretary Morrison but he informs me that he is leaving the city and would be unable to see you at this time. You say that there is an agency at work in the southern states including colored men to go to different sections of the countyr to work in the steel plants; that the National Brotherhood Workers of America is opposed to such a movement and you desire to work out some plan whereby it would not be profitable for colored men who are outside of the organization of labor unions to be engaged as strike breakers. Inasmuch as it does not seem probable now that you will be able to see either President Gompers or Secretary Morrison during your stay in the city, may I suggest that you take the matter up with Mr. John Fitzpatrick, Chairman of the Committee for Organizing Iron and Steel Workers, 303 McGee Building, Pittsburgh, Pa.; and also with the executive officers of the twenty four national and international unions whose members are involved in the steel strike. A list of these organizations is enclosed herein. Should you be in Washington after the middle of next week, I would suggest that you get in touch with headquarters and see if arrangements can be made whereby you could confer either with President Gompers or with Secretary Morrison. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. ecnl845 LL November 18, 1919. Mr. John Jackson, Secretary, Freight Handlers' Union No. 16900, 703 E. Lee St., Greensboro, N. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you, under date of November 14th, I am enclosing herewith copy of a letter just received from Pres. Jas. J. Forrester, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, together with copy of Supplement No. 7 to General Order No. 27. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.846 COPY BROTHERHOOD OF RAILWAY AND STEAMSHIP CLERKS FREIGHT HANDLERS EXPRESS AND STATION EMPLOYES 409-11 A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington Office, November 17, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favor of the 14th instant, together with copy of a communication from John Jackson, Secretary, Freight Handlers' Union No. 16900, Greensboro, North Carolina, in which Mr. Jackson asks for information with regard to overtime rates. From a perusal of Mr. Jackson's letter it appears to me that these employes are being treated most unjustly. If these employes report for duty at 7:30 a.m. and have a half hour for lunch, their tour of duty is completed at 4:30 p.m. The time from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. should be paid for so overtime on a pro rata basis, and all time after 6:30 p.m. should be paid for at the rate of time and one-half. They are entitled to this under the terms of Supplement No. 7 to General Order No. 27, a copy of which is enclosed herewith. These freight handlers are also entitled to back pay at the above rates for every hour they have worked in excess of the statutory period. With best wishes, I am, Yours fraternally, (Signed) JAS. J. FORRESTER, Grand President. Enclosure: Supplement 7 to G.O. 27.847 [?] November 18, 1919 Mr. Gerald H. Brown, Secretary, Canadian Delegation, International Labour Conference, New Navy Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- President Gompers will I am sure be very appreciative of the invitation extended by the Canadian Delegation for dinner at the Wardman Park Hotel, on Wednesday evening, November 19th at eight o'clock. I regret to advise you however that he is now in New York City and his engagements will not permit his returning before Thursday. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to Mr. Gompers.[*848*] WASHINGTON D C NOVEMBER 18 1919 NIGHT LETTER THE NATIONAL LABOR DIGEST UNDERWOOD BUILDING? SAN FRANCISCO CALIFORNIA ABSENCE FORM CITY FOR TWO WEEKS PREVENTED REPLY TO YOUR TELEGRAM NOVEMBER NINTH WHICH I FIND AWAITING ME PRESIDENT GOMPERS ALSO ABSENT HENCE NO RESPONSE WAS MADE TO YOUR REQUEST. IF YOU DESIRE WILL BE VERY GLAD TO SEND YOU COPIES OF ARTICLES EDITORIAL ETCETERA REFERRING TO PRESIDENT GOMPERS AND COPIES OF ADDRESSES SPECIAL PRESS INTERVIEWS AND ARTICLES BY HIM R LEE GUARD CHARGE A F OF L[*849*] EP November 19, 1919. Rev. Paul Moore Strayer, D.D., 91 Merriman Street, Rochester, N. Y. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 8 was received in President Gompers' absence from the city on official business. I want to thank you in his name for your kind interest, I am sure he will appreciate it very much. Your letter will be brought to his personal attention immediately upon his return. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers850 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. D. D'Allessandro, President, Int'l. Hod Carriers, Building & Common Laborers Union of North America, 25 School St., Quincy, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers encl President, American Federation of Labor.851 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. A. R. Linn, President, Int'l. Brotherhood of Foundry Employes, 810 Chestnut St., St. Louis, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, encl President, American Federation of Labor. 852 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. J. P. Noonan, Acting President, Int'l. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 406-18 Reisch Bldg., Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl853 EP Nov. 19, 1919 Mr. A. C. Hughes, President, Coopers Int'l. Union of North America, 1012 Boylston St., Newton Highlands, Mass. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl854 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. P. L. Morrin, President, Int'l Assn of Bridge & Structural Iron Workers, American Central Life Bldg., Indianapolis, Ind. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl855 EP Nov 19, 1919. Mr. Wm. Bowen, President, Bricklayers, Masons & Plasterers Int'l Union of America, University Park Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl857 EP November 19, 1919 Mr. Frank Kasten, President, The United Brick & Clay Workers of America, 166 West Washington St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl857 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. L. Weyand, Acting President, Brotherhood of Boiler Makers & Iron Ship Builders, Room 15 Law Bldg., Kansas City, Kans. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl858 EP November 19, 1919 Mr. J. W. Kline, President, Int'l. Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 608 S. Dearborn St., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl859 EP November 19, 1919. Mr. William P. Wills, Secretary, City Policemen's Union, Local 16807, 61 Cypress Road, Brighton, Boston, Mass. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 11, addressed to President Gompers has been received and contents noted. President Gompers is absent from the city on official business and your letter, therefore, has been referred to Secretary Morrison for attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers860 VLY November 20,1919. Mr. Irvine Dungan, City Solicitor, Jackson, Ohio. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 14th instant at hand and contents noted. Your letter deals with the strike of the foundry employes of Jackson, by reason of which the three Iron Furnaces have been closed down. Under the laws of the American Federation of Labor, each national and international union has entire jurisdiction over the d conduct of its affairs. Inasmuch as the matter about which you write comes entirely within the jurisdiction of the International Brotherhood of Foundry Employes, I have referred your letter to Mr. George Bechtold, Secretary-Treasurer, 810 Chestnut St., St. Louis, Missouri, and have offered my services in any way by which I can be helpful in securing an adjustment. I thank you for writing me and I earnestly hope that practical and tangible results may be achieved. Section 3 Article XIII of the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, to which you refer, applies only to local unions directly chartered by the A. F. of L., that is, to locals which hold relations to the A. F. of L. similar to the relations between local unions and National and International Unions. The policy of the furnace workers in Jackson is governed by the constitution of the International Brotherhood of Foundry Employes. Thanking you for writing, and hoping to hear from you I am Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.861 VLY Nov. 20,1919. Mr. Elmer Rosenberg, Secretary, Local No. 10, International Ladies' Garment Workers Union, 7 West 21st Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 15th received and contents noted. I want to thank you and through you the officers and members of your local, for your prompt co-operation and response to the call for financial assistance in behalf of the striking steel workers. The response to the call has been generous and it is earnestly hoped that with the co-operation and assistance of all organized labor, the principle for which the steel workers are contending will be firmly established. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.862 VLY November 18,1919. Mr. Abe L. Wood, Secretary, Trades and Labor Assembly, Care "Courier" Jacksonville, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of November 14th, in which you transmit a resolution adopted by your organization regarding the Cummins Bill. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.863 VLY Nov. 20,1919. Mr. U.C. Hass, Secretary, Machinists Lodge No. 1250, 42 14 Franklin St., Bellaire, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of the 14th instant I find awaiting me upon my return to headquarters after an absence of several days on official business. The information you give regarding the situation in the steel strike in your locality is disquieting. I earnestly hope that later events have proven your summing up of the situation to be inaccurate. I wish you would keep me advised fully. But for the fact that you ask me to regard your letter as personal, I should submit a copy of it to the chairman of the National Committee for Organizing Iron and Steel Workers. In any event, I wish you would keep me advised fully. With best wishes, and thanking you for writing me, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.864 VLY Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. G. W. Johnson, Losantville, Indiana. Dear Sir: President Gompers is absent from the city on official business. It will probably be some time before he will have the opportunity of reading your letter. Now, in reference to what you say regarding the Political Labor Party, your attention is called to the action of the last convention of the American Federation of Labor, held in June, 1919, in that section of the report of the Executive Council entitled "Labor Political Party" which the convention adopted and approved. Copy of that report is sent to you under separate cover. It should be said further that the Executive Council has called a conference to be held in this city on December 13, of the representatives of the affiliated national and international unions, the representatives of the Railroad Brotherhoods, the Farmers' organizations and the Executive Council, for the purpose of considering the present situation and formulating plans and policies for labor's guidance. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.865 LFL. November 19, 1919 Mr. Americo I. Balino, Secretario-Gerente de La Fraternidad, Sociedad de Maquinistas y Foguistas de Locomotoras, Alberti 354, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Dear Sir:- Upon my return to headquarters I was advised of your call to my office and your request to be placed upon the exchange list of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. I am very happy to comply with your request, beginning with the November, 1919 issue, I shall be happy to receive your publication regularly. I am also sending to you some of our printed matter including the constitution and enclosed you will find complete list of pamphlets published by this office. Hoping to hear from you from time to time, I am, Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.866 WCR:EJL November 19, 1919. Mr. Eben Moody Boynton, 6 Seaton Place, N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your letter with enclosures concerning the Boynton System received during the absence of President Gompers who is out of the city on official business. As soon as he returns the matter will be referred to him. Yours truly, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.867 WCR:EJL November 191919. Hon. John C. McKenzie, House Office Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your letter enclosing one from S. F. Clark, Freeport, Ill., seeking information as to certain wage agreements, received. I am sending you under separate cover the agreement between the Railroad Administration and the Railroad Department of the American Federation of Labor, its affiliated organizations of the Mechanical Section and Divisions Nos. 1, 2, and 3 thereof. The Stationary Engineers and Firemen and the Maintenance of Way men are in negotiation with the Railroad Department for a new agreement. As nothing definite has been agreed to, I cannot furnish you with any data. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers, American Federation of Labor.868 LFL. November 19, 1919 Mr. William D. Whitney, Assignment Editor, Yale News, New Haven, Connecticut. Dear Sir:- Events and matters of the most transcendent importance to the labor movement have prevented my making an earlier reply to your letter of November fourth. You ask that I should contribute an article on the present situation in the labor movement for publication in the Yale News and you express the opinion that the college man is interested in the problems confronting labor, that he wants to get all of the information obtainable so that he will be properly equipped to cope with the subject intelligently when he, in turn, takes his place in the business world. I am too crowded now to write a special article for you as you request. However, enclosed you will find the following: Copy of paper which I have prepared and which was read for me before the convention of the Associated Advertising Clubs of the World at New Orleans, La. September 22nd, 1919, on the subject "Capital, Labor, Consumer." An editorial by me in the November issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST entitled "Era of Slavery Has Passed." Galley proof of two editorials which will appear in the December issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST entitled "For the Shorter Workday" and "A Field of Profound Ignorance." An address by Samuel Gompers to a labor conference held at New York City, December 9, 1918 "Should a Political Labor Party Be Formed?" Your attention is directed to a series of articles which I wrote for McClure's magazine and which were published in the April, May, June, July and August issues under the following titles: Apr. - Our Shield Against Bolshevism. May - The Battle Line of Labor June- Labor and Beer July- The Trying Times of Peace869 William D. Whitney-----#2 August - Labor's Progress is America's Triumph. These are particularly commended to your thoughtful consideration. There are other pamphlets by me which are published by the American Federation of Labor and pamphlets and leaflets published by the American Federation of Labor as per the enclosed list. It would be an excellent thing for your library to have a complete set of all of these publications so as to be accessible for handy reference. The University Press of Harvard has ordered all of the American Federation of Labor publications for their library. You would find especially valuable for reference copy of the American Federation of Labor History-Encyclopedia-Reference Book. The A. F. of L. publishes a monthly journal of which I am editor. I am now having prepared a topical index of the magazine from its first issue in 1894 up to and including this year. When this is completed it will be of great value for ready reference to students and those who are interested in the history of the labor movement. As you can appreciate the demands made upon me for special articles are very great. I comply as often as is practicable and consistent with the many other duties devolving upon me but when I often find myself unable to comply, I suggest, as I do to you, that data as above indicated should be used, that is such data as is applicable to the case in hand. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.870 LFL. November 19, 1919 Mr. W. J. Hernan, Managing Editor, Radio News Service, 154 Nassau Street, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Thank you for your letter of November 14th in which you send me copy of the cablegram received by your service from Arthur Henderson of London. I have not seen any press report of the cable and I am very glad to have the copy direct from you. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers. President. American Federation of Labor.871 LFL. November 19, 1919 Mr. Thomas Armitage Beveridge, 6337 McCallum Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- Your letter of the 18th instant addressed to President Gompers has been duly received and contents noted. He is absent from the city on official business. I am sure he will appreciate your writing, the sentiments which you convey and the thoughts you advance which collaborate the opinions he has so frequently expressed. Thank you for your personal wishes regarding himself. You may be interested in the enclosed Reconstruction Program of the American Federation of Labor. It is commended for your thoughtful consideration. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers Enclosure.872 EP November 19, 1919. Mr. John Fitzpatrick, Chairman, Committee for Organizing Iron & Steel Workers, 303 McGee Building, Pittsburgh, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother:- As my time as been so fully engrossed for the past two weeks with vitally important matters, I have necessarily been forced to defer attention to a greater part of my correspondence. In going through an accumulation of letters that were being held for me, I find one from Jerome E. Blackwell written at ATlantic City, N. J., regarding the employment of colored workers by the steel corporations to take the place of the striking steel workers. Copy of Mr. Blackwell's letter is enclosed herein. You will note the suggestion he makes regarding canvassing the negro district. In any event, this matter is submitted to you for your consideration and attention and I have so advised Mr. Blackwell. Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. encl873 COPY DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of Secretary Washington Atlantic City, N.J. Oct. 31, 1919 Mr/ Samuel Gopmers Pres. American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. My dear Mr. Gompers: After trying unsuccessfully to see you in Washington I will take this opportunity of saying that I am just from Chicago, Ill, Gary, Ind., and Pittsburgh, Pa. and was somewhat surprised and disappointed upon learning that from 60 to 70 % of the mill hands that are now employed in Gary and vicinity and Pittsburgh and vicinity are negroes. Captains of the steel industry are sending out hundreds of their representatives in the negro districts making all kinds of overtures to obtain their services. Their color scheme is somewhat alluring to my people and consequently large numbers are flocking to their mills and incidently defeating themselves as well as organized labor to a certain extent. Now what I deem would be a logical course would be to select with a great deal of care, some colored men who are not concerned only with their own personal aggrandizement and have them canvass thoroughly all negro districts with A.F. of L. propaganda and where possible to personally speak against negroes serving in the capacity of strike-breakers, not that I am trying to be unlawful but I am a firm believer in the program and policies of your organization. As Vocational Secretary of the Wabash Ave. Dept. Y.M.C.A. Chicago Ill. I have had several communications with you and I believe so firmly in the organizing of negroes in the A.F. of L. that I [????????????]tions with the Y.M.C.A. on that issue be-874 -2- cause they assume a neutral policy on all labor problems. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience concerning this matter, I beg to remain, Very sincerely yours, (Signed) Jerome E. Blackwell 234 N. Ohio Ave. Atlantic City, N.J.875 LFL. November 19, 1919 Mr. Russell E. Duke, Delta Tau Delta House, Oxford, Ohio, Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 15th addressed to President Gompers has been duly received and contents noted. He is absent from the city on official business and, therefore, will not be able to comply with your request, at least, not for sometime to come. In the meantime your attention is directed to the enclosed. The work and achievements of the American Federation of Labor are the most convincing argument in support of the question that for the purpose of bargaining between employer and employe the most effective organization is the present system of national and international unions. If there is anything published of your debate, President Gompers would appreciate it if you would send it to him. If there is any further data which we can give you please advise us. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure.876 EP November 19, 1919 Mr. G. W. Perkins, President, Cigarmakers' International Union, Monon Bldg., Chicago, Ill. Dear Mr. Perkins:- President Gompers is in New York on official business. He, therefore, has not had the opportunity of reading your letter of November 14, copy of which you said you also forwarded to Secretary Morrison. I spoke to Mr. Morrison about it and he said that he would write to you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers877 EP November 19, 1919 Mr. Jerome E. Blackwell, 234 N. Ohio Ave., Atlantic City, N. J. Dear Sir:- Owing to the very great pressure of other matters requiring my immediate and undivided attention, I have not been able to read your letter of October 31 until this date. I beg to say in reply that I have submitted copy of your letter to Mr. John Fitzpatrick, Chairman, Committee for Organizing Iron & Steel Workers, 303 McGee Bldg., Pittsburgh, Pa. It might be well if you would write to him direct regarding the matter with which your letter to me deals. As Chairman of the Committee for organizing Iron and Steel Workers all such matters as that with which your letter deals are referred to Mr. Fitzpatrick. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. 878 EP November 19, 1919 Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary-Treasurer, Indiana State Conference of Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators & Paperhangers of America, 1352 Ellsworth St., Gary, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 10 was duly received and contents noted. You enclose copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workmen who you state called on you at the office and requested that it should be sent to me. The resolution deals with the steel workers' strike in Gary and asked for a national representative to go to Gary and take charge of the strike. I have sent a copy of your letter and the resolution to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four national and international unions whose members are involved in the steel strike, for such action as they may deem advisable to take thereof. A list of these organizations with the names and addresses of their respective presidents is enclosed herein. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. encl 879 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. Oliver Hoyem, Executive Secy., National Committee on Prisons & Prison Labor, Union Trust Bldg., Washington Bureau, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- I was absent from the city when your letter of November 3 was received. I have only just returned. In compliance with your request, I am enclosing to you herein a galley proof of the article which will appear in the December issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, regarding the medal which was presented to President GOmpers by your Committee. The picture of the medal will accompany the article. I trust this is not too late to serve your purpose. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers 880 EP November 19 1919. Mr. R. L. Jarmon, 401 Alverez Place, San Antonio, Texas. Dear Sir:- Yourletter of November 6, addressed to President Gompers, has been received and contents noted. President Gompers is absent from the city on official business and as soon as the pressure of vital matters which require almost his entire attention will permit, your letter will be brought to his attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers 881 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. W. E. Bryan, President, United Leather Workers Int'l. Union, 504-5 Portal Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir:- Enclosed please find copy of letter addressed to President Gompers by Mr. Walter A. Morunga of B.W. College, Berea, Ohio. President Gompers is out of the city on official business and in his absence I am forwarding copy of the letter to you in compliance with Mr. Morunga's request. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers encl8 COPY: Men's Dormitory, B.W. College, Berea, Ohio, November 16,1919. American Federationist, Samuel Gompers, Editor, Washington, D. C. Gentlemen:- I hope, in my desire to secure the fundamental facts concerning the Union Shop question, that I am not imposing upon your good pleasure unnecessarily. However, when reading in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, Volume 19, page 321, I noted an article entitled "Open and Closed Shops", by W. E. Bryan, General President, United Brotherhood of Leather Workers, the closing paragraph of which contains the following significant statement: "There is ample data under existing conditions in many industries to prove the Union Shop produces the maximum in output at less cost per unit when compared with the non- union shop..........." For some time I have endeavored to obtain data of this nature and in all my research work I have been unsuccessful in uncovering it. No doubt Mr. Bryan had certain facts in mind when making this ascertion, and I do not want to appear as questioning his good faith in making that statement, but ismply desire it as a matter of information and proof. I would greatly appreciate it if you would direct this inquiry to Mr. Bryan, in order that he might refer us to his source material, or furnish us with the data which he refers to. We are also taking the liberty of requesting you to send us a copy of the American Federationist of Janyar, 1911. If there is any expense involved, please let us know and we will remit promptly. Thanking you for the kind consideration shown, I am Sincerely yours, (Signed) Walter A. Morunga883 EP Nov. 19, 1919 Mr. Walter A. Morga, Men's Dormitory B.W. College, Berea, OH Dear Sir:- Your [??]tter of November 15, addressed to President Gompers, has been received and contents noted. In President Gompers absence, in compliance with your request, am referring your letter to Mr. W. E. Bryan, President of the United Leather Workers International Union, 504-5 Postal Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. It will not be possible to send you a copy of the January 1911 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST as there is no copy available at this office. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers884 VLy Nov. 17,1919. Mr. William Green, Secretary, United Mine Workers of America, Bellevue Hotel, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Green: President Gompers is absent from the city on official business. Today a letter was received from Professor Irving Fischer, of Yale University, which deals entirely with the situation affecting the Miners. I therefore enclose to you herein a copy of Professor Fischer's letter, and have advised him, in President Gompers' absence, that the matter has been referred to you. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. Enclosure.885 COPY-VLY YALE UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL ECONOMY Prof. Irving Fisher, 460 Prospect St., New Havey, Connecticut. November 14, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Gompers: There is a point in connection with the coal strike controversy which seems to me among the most fundamental and the emaphsis on which would, I am sure, help the miners' cause before the public and with the Government. This is, that while technically the miners are bound by their contracts the terms of that contract have been tampered with through the depreciation of the dollars in terms of which it is expressed and that furthermore this perversion of the terms of the contract was in part due to the action of the Government itself in its war finance. Stress has already been laid, and quite properly, on the fact that the war is over in essence though not technically. These two points together makes the holding of the miners to their contracts so purely a technical matter as to demonstrate the need of revision. I am a believer in performing contracts even when their fulfillment can be justified only on technical grounds. But I believe the Government owes it to the public to revise such contracts when practicable. I enclose Chapter III of my forthcoming book on "Stabilizing the Dollar" in which chapter I have stressed these points in the marked passages. I do not know to whom I should write in regard to this matter. Possibly it should be Mr. Lewis but I am writing to you because of my acquaintance with you and because arrangements have been made, through Mr. Frank Morrison, to hear me on this general subject at a meeting of the Executive Council of the A. F. of L. at its December meeting.886 -2- If I can be of any use in arguing this matter on behalf of the miners also when the matter comes up I shall be glad to do so if can arrange my engagements and you and your associates should desire it. I think that Royal Meeker, Commissioner of Labor Statistics, and Louis Post, Assistant Secretary of Labor, would also stress this point and aid you in presenting it if you desired. Very sincerely yours, (signed) Irving Fisher W.G.M. ENC.887 EP November 19, 1919 Mr. James Fabey, Powling, N. Y. Dear Sir:- Thank you for your interesting letter of November 15. I always welcome any constructive suggestions from anyone who is interested in the welfare of his fellow-men. Under separate cover I am sending you some of our literature which is commended to your thoughtful consideration. Hoping to hear from you further, I am Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.888 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. Chas. Russell, 6114 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir:- President Gompers will appreciate your letter of November 17 and the suggestions you make therein. He is now absent from the city on official business and I thank you in his name for writing. He always welcomes suggestions from anyone who is interested in the welfare of his fellow men. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.889 KP Nov. 19, 1919. Messrs. Underwood & Underwood, Inc., 1230 Connecticut Avenue, Washington, D. C. Gentlemen:- In a letter recently received from you ref to a photograph you took of the President's National Industrial Conference. I would like to see one of these tures and then I will be better able to determine whethe I care to have one for the files of our office. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.890 F No.19,1919. Mr. Ray Cameron, Park College, Parkville, Missouri. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 5th instant received, in which you say your college is debating the Labor question versus the Capital question limiting it to Employers and Employees, and requesting information on this subject. Enclosed you will please find copy of references and articles on the subject of collective bargaining published in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor, of which I am editor Under separate cover I am sending you two pamphlets, one the American Labor Movement and the other, the American Federation of Labor Reconstruction Program. These are commended to your thoughtful consideration. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.891 VLY November 19,1919 Prof. Irving Fisher, Department of Political Economy, Yale University, 460 Prospect St., New Haven, Connecticut. Dear Sir: President Gompers is absent from the city on official business, hence this acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter addressed to him under date of November 14th. Mr. William Green, Secretary of the United Mine Workers of America, is now in this city, and I have referred your letter to him. No doubt you will hear from him direct regarding the matter about which you write. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.892 VLY Nov. 20,1919. Mr. George Bechtold, Secretary-Treasurer, International Brotherhood of Foundry Employes, Room 307, 810 Chestnut St., St. Louis, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother: Mr. Irvine Dungan, City Solicitor of Jackson, Ohio, has written me regarding the strike of the furnace workers in that city last June, whereby the three furnaces, the Star, the Globe and the Jisco, were closed. Mr. Dungan suggested that someone be sent to Jackson to make an investigation, - someone who has the confidence of both the operators and the men. Inasmuch as the matter about which he writes comes entirely within the jurisdiction of your organization, I am submitting the matter to you for whatever action you may deem it advisable to take thereon. I would appreciate your informing me as to what action is taken. Of course, if there is anything I can do to be helpful, I shall be glad to extend any assistance within my power. Hoping to hear from you, and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.[*893*] COPY-VLY IRVINE DUNGAN City Solicitor Jackson, Ohio, November 14,1919. Hon. Samuel Gompers, Washington, D. C. My dear Sir: Last summer, about June 10th 1919, our three Iron furnaces here, the Star, the Globe and the Jisco, had to close down because of a strike voted by the Furnace Workers, because the several furnaces refused to agree to all the demands of the men. They did agree to work three 8 hour shifts instead of two 12 hours shifts; and also agreed to have a joint Committee on grievances, and several other matters of previous difference, but refused to the wage increase for each of the three shifts over the wages paid the two shifts under the contract made the last year and one other difference I do not fully understand. The 3 shifts at same wage made 50% increase alone. Pig iron, when the strike closed the Furnaces, was $7.00 a ton less than when the previous wage agreement was made, and Mr. Cribbens, the R. R. agent here, tells me that increased freight rates, counted with cost of coke and ore, made it impossible to operate with the increased wage demands except at a loss. I am stating this simply from this information, and not of my own knowledge. Now I write to call your attention to Section 3 of Article XIII of your Constitution, page 22, and to state that from information from members who were there, the vote to refuse to work unless their demands were conceded, was by an open rising vote. The conditions are pretty bad, but the mild weather has thus far made less distress than might have resulted. Might it be possible to send some new man here to investigate and report. I feel confident that the matter could be amicably adjusted so the Furnaces could start again, although one of them, the Jisco, has let its mines fill with water. For years the A. F. of L. has been growing in its own strength, but under your wise and temperate guidance it has grown in the sympathy and understanding of the thinking public, and I hope the present emergency may not lose either the strength of the organization itself, or the necessary public cordial support. Somethings are now being done, that only the fear of a fuel famine make the public seem quiescent toward what they would ordinarily protest against. And if the coal mines should quietly resume production, rather than risk the clash with a court's orders the thoughtful public will the more demand that a fair settlement be had. You have met so many men that I cannot Hope that you remember me, though I wrote the lease you took on the Costello property, corner 5th and G Streets twenty some years ago. I had the honor to be the894 -2- author of the first law in Ohio against the Truck System and Mr. Salagaber (Now Pension Com.) was then on the Senate Judiciary Committee with me, and was for my bill. Pardon my intrusion on your so busy and useful life, but naturally I regret any mistake that may weaken the support of public sentiment, that the A. F. of L. deserves and should have. If you send a man to look over this matter, Mr. David Armstrong, President Citizens' Savings Bank here, and also President Board of Trade, who has the confidence of both operators and the men as fully as any man here, will be able to put him in touch with the leading workmen as well as the operators. I venture to intrude thus, both for the sake of the idle workers and the standing of the A. F. of L. With my highest respect, I am Yours Truly, (signed). Irvine Dungan[*895*] F Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. Walter M. Patton, Director Carlston College Library, Northfield, Minn. Dear Sir: As per your request of the 17th instant, you will please find enclosed herein copy of the pamphlet "Why the Peace Treaty Should Be Ratified." Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President American Federation of Labor.896 F Nov.19,1919. Mr. Albert Tegen, 912 South Tenth St., Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Dear Sir: Your favor of the 12th instant received, in which you request information and data on the question, "Resolved that the open shop policy should be maintained in our industries." In reply, I am sending you pamphlet being reprint of editorials by the undersigned which have appeared from time to time in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, the official publication of the American Federation of Labor, and a pamphlet entitled "Has the Non-unionist a Moral Right to Work, How, When and Where he Pleases", by Frank K. Foster. I would also refer you to a pamphlet by Clarence S. Darrow, entitled "The Open Shop", published by the Hammersmark Publishing Company, 151-153 Wabash Ave., Chicago, Ill., listed at ten cents a copy, and to a discussion between Mr. Clark and the undersigned upon the subject of the "Open Shop", a report of which appeared in the February 17th, 1905, issue of "The Journal", Rochester, New York. I would also refer you to the enclosed list of references in the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor.897 F Nov.19,1919. Mr. A.G. Hawes, Room 307, Denckla Bldg., 11th and Market St., Philadelphia, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: You will please find enclosed the two letters you requested from Secretary Morrison, that is, the letter from Secretary-Treasurer Wm. German of the District Council of Philadelphia and Vicinity and the letter from M.J. McDermott, of the District Council of Philadelphia and Vicinity. Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor.898 F Nov. 19,1919. Mr. W.W. Haggard, Principal Petoskey High School, Petoskey, Michigan. Dear Sir: Your letter of the 10th instant received, in which you ask for my personal statement on Military Training. You will please find enclosed herein copy of a statement by the undersigned given to the press, Laredo, Texas, November 16, 1918. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.899 F Nov. 19,1919. Mr. Harry Willert, Men's Dormitory. Baldwin, Wallace College, Berea, Ohio. Dear Sir: In compliance with your request of the 17th instant, I am sending you under separate cover copy of the May 1905 issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor.900 LL November 18, 1919. Mr. Jas. J. Forrester, President Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, 409-11 A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed herewith you will please find copy of letters received from the officers of Freight Handlers' Union No. 16422, Savannah, Georgia. Please let me have your advice in the matter. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosures.901 COPY FREIGHT HANDLERS UNION NO. 16422, Savannah, Ga., Sept. 30, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: We are having a great deal of trouble at this point just now, owing to the fact that we submitted a grievance to Board No. 3 in August and same was passed to them, but for some reason the Director of Labor has seen fit to hold this decision up, and it is for the purpose of getting you to assist us that I am writing you. I would thank you to see if you can get this decision from the Director of Labor. It has reference to pay of Truckers and Stevedores on the Savannah Terminals, Central of Georgia Railway, allowing an increase of 5¢ per hour, as per Article #3, Interpretation No. 1, Supplement No. 7 to General Order #27, and was rendered by Board of Adjustment #3 August 7, 1919, and handed to Mr. W. S. Carter's office under Special Docket #60-C. Hoping that you will give this your personal attention, Yours fraternally, (Signed) A. P. JONES, Secty. 625 W. Gwinnett St., Savannah, Ga.902 Copy FREIGHT HANDLERS UNION NO. 16422, Savannah, Ga., November 12, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Grand Pres., A. F. of L., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In reply to your letter of October 11th with reference to copy of letter in answer to your of the 4th inst., from office of Division of Labor signed by J. A. Franklin; as his communication stated that it had been arranged to send a representative to Savannah to investigate situation and conditions and feel that we have waited a reasonable length of time and we have not heard anything more. We have complied with Supplement No. 6 to General Order No. 27 as Mr. Franklin advised and I am forwarding you a copy of said supplement with a letter from Mr. J. A. Franklin dated March 29th so you can see how long we have been trying to get a decision. For your information we have been working for 32¢ per hour up to the present time as Freight Handlers for the Cen. of Ga. R.R. and would call your attention to the article in Mr. Franklin's letter to you that the Freight Handlers at Savannah was different from any other point in the United States. It is true that we have no contract but we cannot see wherein that affects the Genl. Order or supplement so far as the working conditions. I dont see any difference of our freight handling from any other railroad center. Our working hours are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with one hour for noon, - we have been loyal to our employers and also to the government at our small salary and we have sacrificed to a goodly number and bought Liberty Bonds and War Savings Stamps. We ask that you would use your good offices in obtaining for us our rights. Thanking you for your interest and also that you return supplement at your earliest convenience, we are, Yours respectfully, (Signed) A. P. JONES, Secretary, WM. ADAMS, Actg. Pres. P.S. Our contentions and the finding of the management of the Cen. of Ga. R.R. should be on file in the office of Division of Labor since August. Address A P. Jones, 635 W. Gwinnet ST.903 LL November 18, 1919. Messrs. A. F. Jones, Secretary, William Adams, Acting President, Freight Handlers' Union No. 16422, 625 W. Gwinnett St., Savannah, Ga. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Your letter of November 12th received and contents noted. Let me say, in reply, that I am taking this matter up with President Jas. J. Forrester, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employes, 409-11 A. F. of L. Building, this city, for his advice and attention. As soon as I hear from him, I will write you further. With kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.904 LL November 18, 1919. Mr. Elmer Rahe, Secretary, Federal Labor Union No. 16499, Wichita Falls, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 12th, addressed to Secretary Morrison, has been referred to me for attention. You enclose copy of your new working rules, which you state you are sending for approval. I have carefully read over copy of your working agreement and same seems to be in very good form. We do not submit wage scales of local unions to the Executive Council for their approval until a local has been in affiliation to the American Federation of Labor for one year, because of the fact in case of strike or lockout, in the enforcement of their scale, they would not be entitled to financial assistance. Your local has not been in affiliation one year, charter having been issued in March, 1919. I sincerely trust that your local will be successful in putting this new wage scale into effect. I would suggest that if the officers of your local want any assistance in enforcing this scale that you confer with our Volunteer Organizer in your city, Jack Prather, 806 11 th Street. Organizer Prather will counsel and advise with the officers of your local and be of all assistance in bringing about a satisfactory settlement of your wage agreement. In compliance with your request, I am returning herewith the copy of your new working rules which you submitted to this office and would ask that you forward me a copy for our files. With kind regards and wishing your local continued success, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.905 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. J. J. Forrester, Grand President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers Express and Station Employes, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Mr. Forrester:- Replying to your letter of the 17th instant, enclosed you will please find five dollars ($5.00) as my contribution toward purchasing a suitable gift to be presented to Mr. Jewell by a group of his friends on the occasion of his wedding, November 26th. The information of his contemplated marriage comes as a complete surprise. I extend to him my felicitations upon the happy event. Sincerely yours, Saml. Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.906 Washington, D. C., November 20, 1919. Matthew Woll, 6111 Bishop Street, Chicago, Illinois. I hope you can remain in Chicago for a few days. I xxx may desire you to perform an important duty at the Farmers' Conference which it is impossible for me to attend. Wire answer, Samuel Gompers. Charge A. F. of L. 907 AH Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. Harry M. Watkins, Secretary, Mail Order and Packers' Union #16282, 3193 Maplewood Ave., Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: I beg to advise you that your application for strike benefits was submitted to the Executive Council for their consideration and same approved. Secretary Quinlivan of the Toledo Central Labor Union and Organizer Flood were instructed to make report on the members of your local entitled to benefits. Their report just reached this office and contains the names of six members entitled to benefits as follows: F. J. Thorpe one week ending Sept. 29.........................$ 6.00 H. J. Cummings two weeks ending Sept. 29 & Oct. 6.............. 12.00 Ed.McCallister five weeks ending Sept. 29-Oct.6-13-20-27...... 30.00 H. M. Watkins six weeks ending Sept. 29-Oct. 6-13-20-27-Nov.3. 36.00 F.J.Steele six weeks ending Sept. 29-Oct.6-13-20-27, Nov. 3... 36.00 Burt Rigby six weeks ending Sept. 29-Oct.6-13-20-27, Nov. 3... 36.00 $156.00 You will please find enclosed herewith check for $156.00 as per statement above, strike benefits on these six members. You will note this check is drawn payable to the president of your local F. J. Steele and H. J. Cummings, Secretary, the officers of your local who signed the strike roll, inasmuch as there is no bonded officer to whom check should be drawn. I desire to call your attention to the fact that it is provided in Section 5 of Article 13 of the constitution of the American Federation of Labor, that each local union shall require its treasurer to give proper bond for the safe keeping and disbursements of all funds of the local. If your organization has not already done so, I trust immediate steps will be taken to have the financial officer bonded in conformity with the requirements of the constitution. I am forwarding you under separate cover, individual receipts in duplicate. These receipts should be signed in duplicate by these six members receiving benefits for each week and the original ones returned to this office and the duplicate held in the files of your local. With kind regards, am, Yours fraternally, Saml Gompers.908 AH Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. John J. Quinlivan, Secretary, Central Labor Union, 314 Cherry St., Toledo, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother: Your report on the membership of Mail Order and Packers Union #16282 of Toledo received and carefully noted. You state that out of the 46 members entitled to benefits you have placed forty at work leaving but six members to be paid benefits. You will please find enclosed herewith copy of letter I have just written to Secretary Watkins in which I am enclosing check for $156.00 strike benefits on six members as per your statement. You will note this amount is different from what you make it but this is due to the fact that strike benefits are now $6.00 per week instead of $4.00 having been increased at the last convention of the American Federation of Labor held last June in Atlantic City, N.J. Your statement calls for seven weeks benefits for the last three members whom you state are doing picketing work, but I am only paying them the six weeks period as per Section 5 of Article 13 of the constitution. If an extension of benefits past the six weeks period is required for these three members the matter will have to be submitted to the Executive Council for consideration. With kind regards, and thanking you and Organizer Flood for giving this matter such prompt attention, I am, Yours fraternally, Saml Gompers. President American Federation of Labor. [*909*] Washington, D. C. November 20 9 M. G. Scott 635-39 Newton Claypool Building, Indianapolis, Indiana. Immed[?] upon receipt of your telegram, I telegraphed Beaumont Central [?] and will communicate with you further upon receipt of reply. SAMUEL GOMPERS. Charge A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., November 20 9 C. A. Weber, Box No. 942, Beaumont, Texas. President Scott of the International Typographical Union wires me as follows at "Beaumont, Texas Trades Council [??] placed illegal [?????] on two union newspapers. Please[?] order action rescinded. Your attention is directed to section seven article eleven of Federation Constitution. Please write me full particulars and have central body make such action as will conform to constitution Samuel Gompers. Count punctuation910 LFL. November 19,1919 Mr. Sol Naiman, Member Baker's Union, 61 K. Street, NW. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will please find carbon copy of a letter which I have just addressed to Mr. John C. Schmidt, Agent of Bakers' Local Union No. 118 of Washington, D. C., which is self explanatory. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.911 LFL. November 19,1919 Mr. John G. Schmidt, Agent, Bakers' Local Union No. 119, 512 F Street, NW., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother:- Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter addressed to me by Mr. Sol Naiman, 61 K Street, NW, Washington, D. C. which speaks for itself. I am sure you will acquit me of any desire or intention to interfere in the slightest with the conduct of the affairs of your local union. It is because Mr. Naiman personally called upon me and presented the enclosed, and that I desire to be helpful in any way I can to one of our returned soldiers, that I am presenting the enclosed to you in the hope that some way may be found by which the matter may be straightened out to the satisfaction of all parties interested and to that and I shall be very glad to be helpful in any way within my power. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.912 Washington D.C. November 15, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: I was in to see you yesterday regarding to your helping me to be able to work again. As I told you yesterday, I was prohibited from working at my job by the union for Bakers in Washington, Local #118. Office at 512 E. St., N.W. , John G. Schmidt agent. They claimed that my fellow-workers at Corbys Bakery said I did not work long enough at the trade as an apprentice. As it is, they were wrong, for I worked at the trade for three years. I started to work for Corbys after I returned from the army and worked there 4 months when the men started to kick. The boss was satisfied with my work and he said that as soon as I am straightened up again with the union, I can come back to work. Will you please see what you can do for me, as I am out of work for over a month. Thanking you in advance for your kindness, I am Yours respectfully, Sol Nainan, 61 X. Street, N.W.913 LFL. November 19, 1919 Mr. Eugene Parnell, 113 East McLenore Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 11th received and contents noted. You ask for "a charter for working women such as school teachers, office girls, laundry women, cooks and women working in factories," etc. Let me say first that I have referred your letter to the American Federation of Labor representative in Memphis, Tennessee, Mr. Charles B. Sowers, 1515 Madison Avenue, Memphis, and have asked him to take the matter up with you. Of course you understand that the different classes of workers you enumerate should be organized into unions of their respective trades and callings and chartered direct by the national or international unions having jurisdiction. However, Organizer Sowers will fully explain all of this to you and will give you his best assistance in having the workers in question organized. Hoping to hear from you further, I am, Very truly yours, President American Federation of Labor. 914 LFL. November 19, 1919 Miss Margaret Irving Hamilton, Yale University, School of Law, New Haven, Connecticut. Dear Madam:- President Gompers is absent from the city on official business. I have only just returned after two week's absence. Therefore, this is merely an acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter addressed to President Gompers, until such time as he may be able to give it his personal attention. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.915 LFL. November 19,1919 Mr. William Edlin, THE DAY 183 East Broadway, New York, N.Y. Dear Sir:- Probably you may have seen President Gompers during his present trip to New York City. He was to have a conference with Mr. Chester M. Wright. This is merely an acknowledgment of the receipt of your letter of November tenth which President Gompers read with the deepest interest. He appreciates your writing and what you say in approval of the recent declaration of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.916 LFL. November 20, 1919 Mr. Edward T. Swiggett, Stated Clerk of the Presbytery of Cincinnati, 2132 St. James Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir:- In the absence of President Gompers, who is out of the city on official business, permit me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of November 18th with enclosed resolutions adopted by the meeting of the Presbytery of Cincinnati held on Monday, November 17. Your letter will be brought to his attention upon his return to headquarters. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard President Gompers917 LFL. November 20, 1919 M. Truves, President, Master Printers' Association, 117 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 30th received and contents noted. You say that through the President of the Chicago Typothetae you are sending me a number of copies of the address "Welcome! Fighters For Right and Liberty" as a souvenir of the entrance of the soldiers of the United States into the ranks of the allies and of the mutual victory, and as an expression of your desire to continue this entente during peace times. I beg to assure you of my appreciation of the above and when the address is received, I shall read it with the deepest interest. I shall also send copy to the various printing trades organizations in the country as you request. Again thanking you, I am, Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.918 LFL. November 20, 1919 Mr. Paul Scharnenberg, Secretary-Treasurer, California State Federation of Labor, Underwood Building, 535 Market Street, San Francisco, California. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 15th received and contents noted. In reply permit me to say that, of course, the American Federation of Labor will bear the expenses should the committee be required to make the trip to Sacramento. Thank you for sending me the pages from the San Francisco papers. Otherwise I would not have seen the matter. Hoping to hear from you further and with kind regards, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.919 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. George E. Barnett, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 12th received and contents noted. Mr. Gompers directs me to write and thank you for the volume which has also been received. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.920 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. William Strauss, Hotel St. Clair, Tampa, Florida. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 16th enclosing clipping for President Gompers was received and read with interest. Mr. Gompers directs me to write and thank you for sending same to him. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.[*921*] E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Jos. F. Valentine, President, International Molders' Union, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Mr. Valentine: Your letter of November 11th received and contents noted. You advise me that local #215 of Washington has endorsed Mr. Robert H. Alcorn member of the Molders' Union, for appointment on the Rent Commission created by recent enactment of Congress. You ask that I shall be helpful in any way that I can in securing Mr. Alcorn's appointment. Permit me to say in reply that a week or ten days before the receipt of your letter the matter of the appointment of a labor representative upon this commission had been brought to my attention and the name of Mr. John Colpoys was suggested as being one who would acceptably and capably act upon the commission if appointed. I, therefore, submitted his name to Honorable William B. Wilson, Secretary of the Department of Labor. Under the circumstances, therefore, I am sure you will agree with me that it would not be advisable for me to submit Mr. Alcorn's name no matter how capably he may be of fulfilling the duties of the position if appointed. With kind regards and hoping to hear from your whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.922 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. M. J. Mack, General Secretary, Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants of New Zealand, Aitken St., Wellington, New Zealand. Dear Sir:- Your letter of October 6th is just received and contents noted. I should be very glad indeed to receive the New Zealand Railway Review and have placed your name on our exchange list so that you will receive the "American Federationist" regularly. Enclosed you will find a list of pamphlets published by this office. If you could make use of some of these I should be very glad to have them sent to you and I will appreciate it if you will send me from time to time any of the literature which is published by your organization. Hoping to hear from you again, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.923 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Nrs. Nat Brown, National President, Children of American Loyalty League, 915 Frisco Bldg., St. Louis, Missouri. Dear Madam:- President Gompers was unavoidably delayed in filling out the enclosed card. He hopes, however, that it is not too late to serve your purpose. He is in doubt from your letter whether the card implies a subscription fee, so please advise him. He would write you personally but was called out of the city on important business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.924 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. J. Chessteen Smith, 1751 Columbia Road N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir:- In going over the number of letters and documents that had accumulated on President Gompers' desk I find your letter of October 21st. I have been out of the city. President Gompers is now absent. I am not advised whether you have succeeded in having your interview with President Gompers. I wish you would please advise me as to this at your earliest convenience, and oblige, Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.925 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Lloyd Noble, 430 College Avenue, Norman, Oklahoma. Dear Sir:- Circumstances beyond my control have prevented my making earlier reply to your letter of November 4th. Briefly answering your letter, your attention is called to the Reconstruction Program of the American Federation of Labor which was approved by the last annual convention held June 1919 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, copy of which is enclosed herein. I have particular reference to the section entitled "Immigration" which will be found on page 10. Trusting that the above will not be too late to serve your purpose, I am, Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.926 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Jason Rogers, Publisher, "The Globe", 73-83 Day Street, New York. Dear Sir:- President Gompers thanks you for sending the article which you wrote for the "Editor and Publisher" of November 6th which he has read with the deepest interest. He hopes to be able to write you personally at a later date. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.927 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Daniel L. Grant, Secretary, The Debating Council, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 5th was duly received but this is the first opportunity I have had to make answer. You ask where you can obtain accurate data and information regarding the condition of the textile operatives in the southern mills, the mine operatives and the steel workers. If you will write to the following they will be very glad to give you the information you desire: Mr. John A. Golden, President, United Textile Workers of America, 86-87 Bible House, New York City. Mr. William Green, President, United Mine Workers of America, Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. Mr. M. F. Tighe, President, Iron Steel and TinWorkers, House Bldg., Pittsburgh, Pa. Your attention is called to the enclosed list of pamphlets and circulars published by this office. Some of them might be of assistance to you in your study of industrial conditions. If so, your order will be promptly filled. Hoping to hear from you, I am, Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.928 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. J. Ward Diehl, Member, Typographical Union #18, 261 Margaret Ave., Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir:- President Gompers asked me to thank you for your letter of November 6th which he has read with the deepest interest. He has received many letters of a similar character and the are all being carefully held for future reference. He will be glad to hear from you whenever you find it convenient to write. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.929 VLY Nov.19,1919. Book Department, Harvard University, 778 Widener Memorial Bldg., Cambridge, Massachusetts. Gentlemen: Your letter of November 14th received, and in compliance with your request I am sending to you under separate cover the following publications of the American Federation of Labor, for which a bill will be sent to you: American Federationist, Vol. 24, 25, and 26 (1917, 1918, 1919) 3 copies - The American Labor Movement, its Make-up, Aspirations and achievements. By Samuel Gompers. 2 copies - Gompers, Samuel: The Eight-Hour Workday; its Inauguration Enforcement and Influence. 2 copies - What Does Labor Want? By Samuel Gompers 2 copies - Organized Labor; its struggles, its enemies and fool friends. 2 copy - No Compulsory Arbitration; By Samuel Gompers. 3 copies - History of Trade Unions; William Trant 1 copy - Open Shop Editorials; By Samuel Gompers 2 copies - Philosophy of Trade Unions - Dyer D. Lum 1 copy - The Eight-Hour Primer; By George E. McNeill 1 copy - Economic and Social Importance of the Eight-Hour Movement. By George Gunton. 1 copy - Philosophy of the Eight-Hour Movement, By Lemuel Danryid. 3 copies - Has the Non-Unionist a Moral Right to Work How, When and Where He Pleases? By Frank K. Foster. 1 copy - Trade Union Epigrams; Walter MacArthur. 2 copies - Philosophy of the Labor Movement: George E. McNeill 2 copies - What Labor Could Do. By John Swinton. 1 copy - The Safety of the Future Lies in Organized Labor; By Henry D. Lloyd. 1 copy - Industrial Education; consisting of an investigation and report by a competent special committee. 1 copy - Condition of Women Workers. By Ida m. Van Etten. 1 copy - Why We Unite. 3 copies - The Union Label; Its History and Aims. Walter MacArthur. 1 copy - Labor and the War. A. F. of L. and the labor movements of Europe and Latin-America. 1 copy - Socialism as an Incubus on the American Labor Movement. 1 copy - Should a Political Labor Party be Formed.930 -2- I note in addition to your order for Volumes 24, 25 and 26 of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST, you desire to be put on the mailing list to receive the magazine regularly, also to have sent to you the topical index when it is completed and published. Now, regarding your request for "Labor in Europe and America" by the undersigned, -these and other volumes by me can be secured direct from the publishers or from any book store. They are not kept for sale by the American Federation of Labor. You ask that the American Federation of Labor History, Encyclopedia and Reference Book be introduced in your order, but that it should be sent on approval. Your request will be complied with. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*932*] VLY Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. Cecil A. Ross, Superintendent, Special Library, Harvard University, Room F, Widener Bldg., Cambridge, Mass. Dear Sir: Your letter of November 14th received and contents noted. In compliance with your request I am sending you under separate cover, free of charge, the following publications of the AmericanFederation of Labor: 2 copies - Executive Council of American Federation of Labor; National Association of Manufacturers Exposed: Revelations of Senate Lobby Investigation. 2 copies - Executive Council of American Federation of Labor: Industrial Unionism in its relation to Trade Unionism. 1 Copy - Executive Council of American Federation of Labor; Initiative, Referendum and Recall. 1 copy - Gompers, Samuel: Trade Unions to be Smashed again. 2 copies - Gompers, Samuel: Socialist Methods Versus Trade Union Methods. 3 copies - Gompers, Samuel: Labor and its attitude Toward Trusts. 1 copy - Gompers, Samuel: Labor's Contention on the Injunction abuse. 1 copy - Gompers, Samuel: Justice Wright's denial of Free Speech and Free Press. 1 copy - Statement and Evidence in Support of Petition and Charges Presented to the President of the United States against the U. S. Steel Corporation by the A.F. of L. I have referred to Mr. Frank Morrison, Secretary of the A.F. of L. who is editor of the American Federation of Labor Weekly News Letter, your request to be placed upon the mailing list to receive the Weekly New Letter regularly. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.933 VLY Nov. 19,1919. Mr. W. C. Wilson, Secretary-Chairman, Gulf Coast Council Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers, 433 Keith Building, Beaumont, Texas. Dear Sir: Your letter of November 14th has been received. President Gompers is absent from the city on official business, and has not had the opportunity to see your letter, in which you give a resolution which your organization adopted endorsing the action of the Mine Workers. The information you furnish will be placed , with other correspondence on the Miners' situation, for future reference by President Gompers. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.934 VLY Nov. 19,1919. Mr. Ed. Beckman, 103 Lincoln Ave., Chesterton, Indiana. Dear Sir: In the absence of President Gompers on official business, I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of November 11th, in regard to the strike of the steel workers. The information you furnish will be used to the best advantage. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers.935 VLY November 19,1919. Mr. Earl O. Gunther, Organizer, National Committee for Organizing Iron and Steel Workers, 317 Matthews Ave., Mt. Oliver P.O., Pittsburgh, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother: President Gompers will appreciate your thoughtfulness in sending him the editorial comment from the Pittsburgh "Post" of November 13th. This would not otherwise have reached his attention. President Gompers would write to you personally, but he is absent from the city on official business. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary, to President Gompers.936 VLY November 19,1919. Mr. L. H. Moore, Secretary-Treasurer, Arkansas State Federation of Labor, 112 E. Capitol Ave., Little Rock, Ark. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 13th received, together with copy of a letter which was addressed to you by Mr. Frank Stringfellow. Your letter deals with the question of organization of the automobile mechanics in Arkansas. I have referred the matter to the President of the International Association of Machinists, Mr. William H. Johnston, with the request that he advise me in regard thereto. Immediately upon receipt of the information requested, I shall be glad to communicate with you further. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.937 VLY Nov. 19,1919. Mr. William H. Johnston, President, International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: In a letter just received from Mr. L. H. Moore, Secretary-Treasurer of the Arkansas State Federation of Labor, he says: "There are a great many automobile mechanics in Arkansas and they are exceedingly anxious to be organized, but we are informed that they are under the jurisdiction of the Machinists Union and so far as my information goes that organization only accepts those who are qualified machinists and very few of our automobile mechanics can stand that test. We would have no trouble in organizing these people in a Federal Labor Union but unless the Machinists will take hold of this matter themselves and institute an organizing campaign among these men they will remain unorganized. I should presume the same conditions exist in other states. " You will please let me have your advice regarding the above and oblige, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*938*] LAS:AS November 17,1919 Mr. W.R. Deal, Secretary-Treasurer, Coopers International Union of North America, Suite A, Bishop Building, Kansas City, Kansas. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my favor to you of October 4th relative to your complaint that the oil workers of San Francisco are claiming coopers, permit me to enclose you herein a copy of a communication received from the Internation Association of Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers of America, Mr. H.L. Hope, Secretary-Treasurer, 100 Oil Operators Building, Fort Worth, Texas as well as a copy of a communication forwarded to him by Oil Field, Gas Well and Refinery Workers' Union #11 of Rodeo, California. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor. Enc. 2 P.S. In addition to the above I also enclose copy of forwarded letter from Chas. S. Johnson, Secretary of [Chelmont?] Local #38.939 Rodeo, Calif., Octo. 18,1919. Mr. H. L. Hope,Sec'y., Intl. Assn., Fort Worth, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: In reference to your communication of the 9th inst. regarding Coopers jurisdictional claims, permit me to say that: Jos. Cresse, 2nd Vice President of the Coopers International Union of N.A., called on me some two weeks ago and we discussed jurisdictional matters at some length and we arrived at a very definite and satisfactory understanding. I informed Bro. Cresse that we were not interfering with their membership but trying to work in harmony with them to get all coopers into one organization or the other and where coopers employed at our plant, in the Oil industry, felt it was to their advantage to join our Union, I considered it was our right to accept them, and I did not solicit those who already belonged to the Coopers Union. Brother Cresse expressed satisfaction with this arrangement and we parted with the mutual understanding to work in harmony to bring all coopers under the banner of the A. F. of L. irrespective of which organization they affiliated with. Fraternally yours, (SGD) C. W. Fitzgerald. Sec'y. Int. Ass'n of Oil Field, Gas Well & Refinery Workers of America, Rodeo Local No.11, A. F. of L., Rodeo, Calif.940 INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF OIL FIELD, GAS WELL AND REFINERY WORKERS OF AMERICA. 100 Oil Operators Building, Fifth and Calhoun Street, Fort Worth, Texas. November 4th, 1919. Mr. Sam Gompers, President American Federation of Labor A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am enclosing herewith original letter, under date of October 15th, 1919, received from Chas. S. Johnson, Secretary of Richmond Local #38, original letter dated October 19th ,1919 from C. W. Fitzgerald Secretary of Rodeo Local #11; and beg to quote the following extract from letter of Brother H. W. Dean, Secretary of Martinez Local No. 5: "In regard to the coopers you wrote me about and about jurisdiction over them, - I have only one cooper in our Union. He is the foreman, Toney light, the other coopers never came in". All the above in reply to your letter of October 4th, with which you enclosed copy of your letter to Secretary Deal of the Coopers Union of Kansas City, Mo. relative to the oil workers in the vicinity of San Francisco. The Locals, above mentioned, are the only Locals of Oil Workers in the vicinity of San Francisco; and form the communication you will note that we are not in any way infringing on the rights of the Coopers in this District. Trusting this explanation will prove satisfactory to both yourself and the International officers of the Coopers, I remain Fraternally yours, H. L. Hope, Int. Secy. & Treas.941 (COPY) INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF OIL FIELD GAS WELL WORKERS OF AMERICA. RICHOND LOCAL NO. 38. Richmond, California, Oct.15. Mr. H. L. Hope, Int. Sec'y & Treas., Dear Sir and Bro: Referring to your letter of the 9th inst. pertaining to the matter of jurisdiction by the Coopers' Union will state that to my knowledge there is no Coopers union in Richmond. We have about 15 coopers in our Local all employed at the Standard Oil Co. The Standard's rate is $5.20 and $5.48 a day against $5.50 and $6.00 that the Oil Workers schedule calls for. The machinists, pipe fitters, boiler makers etc. in the Standard are all organized and have a federation to which we are also affiliated. Our relations with all the crafts are amicable. All we are striving for is to get everybody organized. Fraternally yours, Chas. S. Johnson, Scy. Local #38.[*942*] EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. William M. Short, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 508 Maynard Bldg., Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother:- In continuation of my telegram to you of November 16, replying to yours of November 14 and in connection with your later telegram of November 17, I beg to enclose to you herein copy of letter which I have just received from the Attorney General to whom I submitted copy of your first telegram. Of course, when I am advised of the result of the investigation which the Attorney General has directed to be made, I shall again write you. Secretary Buck also wired me regarding the situation in Seattle - a telegram similar in character to what you sent me. I would appreciate it if you would show him this letter and the copy of the letter addressed to me by the Attorney General. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl[*943*] OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL WASHINGTON, D. C. HPS-BCI November 17, 1919. Hon. Samuel Gompers, President, A.F. of L. Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Gompers: I beg to acknowledge your letter of November 15, 1919, wherein you quote at length a telegram sent to you by the President of the WAshington State Federation of Labor relative to the arrests made of certain officers of the Union Record, a paper published in Seattle, Washington. As I am at present advised, those persons arrested had violated the laws of the United States by certain publications made in this paper. However, in view of your request that the matter be investigated, I will request from the United States District Attorney who is handling the cases a full statement of the facts. I am of the opinion, however, that the local United States officials have proceeded solely upon the evidence presented as applicable to existing law, and that, so far as they are concerned, their only object was to proceed against actions which, in their judgment, seemed to be a plain violation of the law. Respectfully, (Signed) A. Mitchell Palmer Attorney General. COPY[*944*] EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. M. F. Tighe, President, Amalgamated Assn of Iron, Steel & Tin Workers, 501-6 House Building, Pittsburgh, Pa. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl[*945*] EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. W. H. Johnston, President, International Association of Machinists, A.F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl946 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. W. W. Britton, President, Metal Polishers International Union, Box 641, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Deco- rators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl947 EP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. C. H. Meyer, President, Int'l. Union of Mine and Smelter Workers, 510 Denham Bldg., Denver, Colo. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl948 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Frank J. Hayes, President, United Mine Workers of America, 1102-9 Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl949 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Mr. J. F. Valentine, President, International Moulders' Union of N.A., Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, O. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl950 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. James Wilson, President, Pattern Workers' League of North America, 1008-9 Second National Bank Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl951 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. John Coefield, President, United Assn. of Plumbers & Steam Fitters of the U S & Canada, 411-16 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl952 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Fred. W. Suitor, Secretary-Treasurer, Quarryworkers' ItnL Union of North America, Scampini Bldg., Barre, Vermont. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl953 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. M. F. Ryan, President, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America, 503 Hall Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl954 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Andrew Fureseth, President, International Seamen's Union of America, 44 East St., San Francisco, California. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl955 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. J. J. Hynes, President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers Intl. Alliance, 122 South Ahsland Blvd., Chicago, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl956 EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Timothy Healy, President, International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen, 211 E. 45th Street, New York City. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Deco- rators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who call upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl[*957*] EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Milton Snellings, President, Intl. Union of Steam & Operating Engineers, 823 D Street, S. W. Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl[*958*] EP Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. S. E. Heberling, President, Switchman's Union of North America, 326 Brisbane Hall, Buffalo, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother:- A few days ago Mr. F. H. Detrick, Secretary of the Indiana State Conference of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paper Hangers of America wrote to me and enclosed copy of resolution drawn up by a committee of workers who called upon him at his office and asked that it be submitted to me. Copies of Mr. Detrick's letter and the resolution are enclosed herein. I am sending copies to the executive officers of each one of the twenty four organizations which are involved in the steel strike. The matter is submitted to you and to the officers of the several other organizations for such action as you may deem necessary to take. I shall be pleased to hear from you regarding the matter. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. encl959 INDIANA STATE CONFERENCE OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF PAINTERS, DECORATORS & PAPER HANGERS OF AMERICA F. H. Detrick, Secy-Treas., 1352 Ellsworth St., Gary, Indiana Gary, Indiana. Nov. 10, 1919. Mr. Samuel Gompers, Dear Sir and Brother:- This resolution was drawn up by a committee of workmen who called on me at my office and asked me to see that you received it all right. Also ask that any reply you might send be sent to me at my office, 560 Bdway, Gary, Indiana, that is in my care of me so that they will be assured of some consideration and know what your attitude is. Fraternally yours, (Signed) F. H. Detrick COPY960 RESOLUTION DRAWN BY MEN WHO WORKED IN OPEN HEARTH STEEL MILLS To the Natl. Comm. Iron & Steel Workers, President Amal. Sheet and Tin Mill Organizations, President American Federation of Labor. WHEREAS, There has been a strike on since Sept. 22, 1919 of Iron and Steel workers and we the workers in the Steel Mills in the city of Gary all responded and quit work, since that time we have been unable to receive correct information on conditions, due to the men who have been at the head of the movement in this city and have no thought of unionism but the overthrow of the government of the A. F. of L. RESOLVED, That we demand an International Representative come to Gary and take charge, and conduct the strike on trades union principles, also arrange for information to the men on strike as hundreds of men have gone back to work due to conditions, particularly the men at the head were trying to discredit the fact that the A. F. of L. was doing anything to make the strike effective, and we feel that without the Internationals being directly in charge here there is no expression of co-operation nationally and we are not getting the true version of facts. If we do not get true trades union men as directors of the situation, that is some International Representative here, we will have to or be compelled to report back to work in defeat. There are a great number working now and it is due to lack of proper leadership. Some of use are members of the unions and others are not who are sticking out and will continue to stick if properly conducted. We demand an investigation; also your support. Fraternally, Members OPen Hearth Local Wm. Smith H. M. Steen Jas. DeRemer C. L. Elliott S. A. Jones Mat Stevens Foreman Geo. Harris 961 HMW:WCR. Nov. 21, 1919. Mr. E.H. McCarty, Secretary-Treasurer, State Public Service Employes, Local No. 17108. Elmira, N. Y. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter containing Constitution and By-Laws of the State Public Service Employes Union No. 17108 received. You ask that they be approved. Section 5 of Article 3 has fixed the dues at 30¢ per month, 5¢ of which must be laid aside for a special fund in case of emergency. As the union pays 20¢ per capita tax to the American Federation of Labor, this would leave only 5¢ to go for the general fund of the union. The dues of your organization should be at least 75¢ per month. Section 12 of Article 13 of the American Federation of Labor provides: "No local shall be entitled to any of the benefits of the Defense Fund unless it requires the members to pay not less than 75¢ per month". Section 1 and 2 of "Rules of Order" have been eliminated. The President has sufficient power to keep order. Having in your constitution that profane and ungentlemanly language is forbidden and no member who is intoxicated would be permitted in the meeting, would make it appear that such occurrences are frequent which of course they are not. With these corrections your Constitution and By-laws will be approved. I am returning them to you with this letter. With best wishes for yourself and the success of your organi- zation, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.962 HMW:WCR. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. George A. Monahan, President Professional Embalmers Local Union #9049, 3300 - 16th Street, San Francisco, Cal. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter containing Constitution and By-Laws received. The delay in their approval was caused by your request to change the name of your organization by the addition of the word "Professional". This change has been approved. A number of changes in your constitution have been made. In Article 1 "of San Francisco" is added to the name of the union. In Section 1 of Article 3 provision is made for the Sergeant at Arms. In Section 3 of Article 4, after the word "Surety Company" these are added "through the American Federation of Labor". Section 4 is amended in the same manner. Section 5 the word "marshall" is changed to "Sergeant at Arms as the latter will be a much better term. Section 7, to the duties of trustees has been added "and secure bonds for the financial officers in a Surety Company through the American Federation of Labor." To Section 4 of Article 7 is added after the word "appointment" these words "as a member". Section 2 of Article 9 has been eliminated. It is too [????] It could be stretched to a point that would be unjust. Section 2 of Article 13 is stricken out. It is too far reaching. Section 3 is also eliminated as a presiding officer has sufficient power to keep order and the appearance of such a clause in the Constitution would make it appear that such incidents are frequent which, of course, they are not.963 Mr. George A. Monahan--#2. The word "and" is inserted in Section 7. In Section 9 "on" is changed to "at". You also submit a wage scale. Wage scales are not considered until after a local union has held membership in the American Federation of Labor for one year. Therefore, it cannot be approved or disapproved. With best wishes for yourself and the organization, I am, Fraternally yours, President American Federation of Labor964 al Hotel, Tel. Bryant 4220 York City, November 18, 1919. Miss Eugenie H. Farrar, 212 West 79th St., New York City. Dear Madam:- Mr. Gompers desires that I acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 13th inst., and to say that if you will call me up by telephone tomorrow about noon that I will probably be in a position to say for him whether or not it will be possible for him to grant you a short interview tomorrow afternoon on the subject you mention. Very truly, Secretary to Mr. Gompers[*965*] EP Nov. 21, 1919, Miss Elizabeth Harris, 24 East Third St., Frederick, Md. Dear Madam:- Your letter of November 19 received and contents noted. In reply I am enclosing herewith copy of pamphlet entitled "The American Labor Movement". I think it will give you the information you desire to be used by you in the preparation of your debate. Very truly yours, Samuel Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. encl[*966*] EP Nov. 21, 1919. Mr. A. G. Wheeler, c/o Bankers Statistics Corp., 58 West 39th St., New York City. Dear Sir:- Thank you for sending me the analytical discussion of the wage situation. I hope to read it at an early date. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.967 LFL. November 20, 1919 Mr. John P. Frey, Editor, Iron Moulders' Journal, Commercial Tribune Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Dear Mr. Frey:- Mr. J. S. Fleet, Chairman Lecture Entertainment of the Culver Military Academy, Culver, Indiana, has written to me several times urging me to deliver an address before the students of Culver Military Academy. It has been impossible for me to do so but I suggested to him that he should extend an invitation to you. I also suggested that he should read the interview by you which appeared recently in the Metropolitan Magazine. No doubt you will hear from Mr. Fleet at an early date and I hope that you can accept the invitation. I only wish that I could accept more of these invitations for as you can appreciate it means a great deal to get the proper viewpoint of labor before the minds of the young men in the schools, colleges and universities while their minds are still in the formative state. I know that I can count upon your placing the labor question forcefully, clearly and persuasively before them. If you do speak to the Culver boys and your address is reported, I wish you would let me have a copy of it. Sincerely yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.968 F Nov.21,1919. Mr. Anthony J. Oliver, President International Federation of Technical Engineers, Architects, and Draftsmen's Union, A.F.of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: In continuation of my letter to you of the 17th instant, I wish to advise you that the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor has approved your application for use of the stamp which has been adopted by your organization. With kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President American Federation of Labor.969 VLY Nov. 20,1919. Mr. C. Pinckney Jones, Secretary, Kiwanis Club, Scranton, Pa., 215 Washington Avenue, Scranton, Pa. Dear Sir: Your letter of November 12th received together with copy of the preambles and resolutions adopted by your club at its regular meeting November 5th, all of which have been read with the deepest interest. It is encouraging and stimulating to know that the Kiwani Clubs throughout the United States and Canada are doing such vigorous and work to combat the spread of Bolshevism. There is no agency that has done and is doing more in this direction than the constructive organized labor movement as represented by the American Federation of Labor. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.970 VLY November 30, 1919. Miss Margaret S. Child, Secretary of Depating Committee, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York. Dear Madam: Your letter of November 13th received and contents noted. You request data to be used in the preparation of a debate on the subject of the organization of school teachers. I have referred your letter to Mr. Charles B. Stillman, President of the American Federation of Teachers, and he will send you such data and printed matter as will be helpful to you. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.971 VLY Nov. 20,1919. Mr. Charles B. Stillman, President, American Federation of Teachers, 1620 Lake Ave., Wilmette, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter from Margaret S. Child, Secretary of the Depating Commitee, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York. I have advised Miss Child that her letter has been referred to you for such information as you are able to furnish. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.972 Vassar College Poughkeepsie, New York Nov. 13, 1919. To Mr. Samuel Gompers, President American Federation of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: I should be much obliged for any statistics or opinions you could furnish for a coming debate. The subject relates to the advisability of teachers joining unions with the power of striking. Yours truly, (signed) Margaret S. Child Secretary of Debate Committee)973 WASHINGTON D C NOVEMBER 21 1919 MR. W. M. SHORT PRESIDENT WASHINGTON STATE FEDERATION OF LABOR 508 MAYNARD BLDG SEATTLE WASHINGTON TELEGRAM RECEIVED I DO NOT KNOW HOW MANY OFFICERS OF THE FEDERATION WILL BE HERE WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY WILL BE THANKSGIVING DAY OF COURSE I SHALL SEE YOU SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A F OF L Washington, D. C., Nov. 21,1919. Dalton Clarke, 312 River Street, Chicago, Illinois. It is with sincere regret I have to say that it impossible for me to be in Chicago either today or tomorrow to address your meeting. Matters of vital importance require my presence in Washington. I have endeavored but in vain to secure a representative to address your conference the name of the American Federation of Labor May I say that the American Federation of Labor is whole heartedly with you in your work for cooperation both in buying and selling and trust that it may grow and expand. In the name of the Executive Council XXX I express the hope that the farmers xxxxx organization will give us the benefit of their presence and advice at the conference called for Washington beginning December thirteen. SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A. F. of L.974 EP Nov. 21, 1919. Mr. John Henderson, 3644 New Hampshire Ave., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:- President Gompers directs me to acknowledge receipt of your letter of November 17, which he has read with very great interest. It may be that you have not read the article he wrote for the June, 1919 issue of McClure's Magazine on the subject of "Labor and Beer". It is commended to your thoughtful consideration. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gopmers975 EP Nov. 21, 1919 Mr. I. A. Beddow, Department of Reading & Speach, Central Michigan Normal School, Mount Pleasant, Mich. Dear Sir:- Replying to your letter of November 11, addressed to President Gompers, your attention is called to the enclosed "Reconstruction Program" of the American Federation of Labor which was accepted and approved by the last Annual Convention held June, 1919. Your attention is also called to the enclosed list of pamphlets and leaflets published by this office. Should you desire to consult any of these your order will be promptly filled. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers encl976 EP Nov. 21, 1919. Mr. John M. Ross, 4902 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, Calif. Dear Sir:- In compliance with your request, President Gompers returns to you herewith typewritten data you submitted to him under date of November 1, 1919. Very truly yours, R. Lee Guard Secretary to President Gompers. encl[*977*] EP Nov. 21, 1919. Mr. Thomas R. Fitzgerald, Business Rep. United Protective Association, 617 A Vanderbilt Ave., Brookly, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 13 received and contents noted. In reply I can only repeat what Secretary Morrison said to you in his letter of October 26; that is that the entire subject matter of your application for charter will be considered by the Executive Council at its meeting December 11. Your letter will be placed with the other correspondence on this case for the consideration of the E. C. I think it would be to your advantage to have a representative come before the Executive Council at its meeting. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*978*] EP Nov. 21, 1919. Mr. F. M. Baker, Supt., The Good Will Industries, of Cleveland, O. 2416 East Ninth St., Cleveland, Ohio. Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 19 received and contents noted. You extend to me an invitation to address a meeting under the auspices of your organization on December 14 or on January 11. I have important engagements in this city for Dec. 14 and possibly for Jan. 11. It, therefore, will not be possible for me to accept your invitation. Let me suggest that you extend an invitation to Mr. Joe. F. Valentine, one of the Vice-Presidents of the American Federation of Labor, who is located in Cincinnati, as you see from the above letter head; or Mr. John P. Frey, Editor of the Iron Moulders' Journal, Commercial Tribune Bldg., Cincinnati, Ohio; Or James Wilson, President of the Pattern Makers' League, 1007-9 Second National Bank Bldg., Cincinnati. All of these gentlemen are located so much nearer to Cleveland that you might be able to secure the services of one of them with less loss of time and inconvenience than if I were to undertake the trip. Very truly yours, President, American Federation of Labor. [*979*] EP Nov. 21, 1919. Miss Ethel S. Proctor, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Calif. Dear Madam:- Your letter of November 15 received and contents noted. I am very glad to comply with your request by sending you herewith copy of pamphlet and circular letter prepared by the undersigned and sent out to all organized Labor on "Why the Peace Treaty should be Ratified". It is commended to your thoughtful consideration. Very truly yours, Presidet, American Federation of Labor. [*980*] LAS:AS. November 20, 1919. Mr. George Seal, Secretary United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes and Railway Shop Laborers, 27 Putnam Avenue, Detroit, Michigan. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed find herein a communication received from Mr. W. H. Haffner, Box B, Powhattan, Kansas, in which he complains of conditions and states that he belongs to the Maintenance of Way Department and asks that I forward this letter to either Mr. Hines or to the proper labor representative. I have informed Mr. Haffner that his communication will be sent you with the request that you kindly write to him direct. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor Enc. 1 981 Powhattan, Kansas. November 17th, 1919 Mr. Samuel Gompers, Washington, D C Dear Sir: I wish to ask you for a favor and that is to present this letter to Mr. Walker D. Hines. I work in the railroad as trackman. I am a married man with a big family to support and I am an American born citizen, and I consider that the wages I am receiving are too small according to the living cost. I am receiving only $2.96 per day of 8 hours, and I believe that Mr. Hines would say the same if he was in my place. We have had a great deal of sickness and I got way behind and I am trying my very best to pay up all my accounts and they are pushing me so hard that they just worry me. And I must sacrifice on my table and sacrifice the clothing that my family must have in order to be able to pay on my accounts. You or anybody else I don't care who it is can come in on us at any time they wish to and they will find that I have but very little on my table or much clothing for the winter and not able to but them at all. When the merchants read the paper and will tell us that we are getting such big wages, a great deal more than we are really getting, the public is being misinformed on that subject. And I think it is just that we get the increase that has been asked for. Enough that we can have a decent living and be able to save a dollar or two once in awhile for a rainy day. We haven't had meat on our table but once since last winter. If we are expected to stand up to the work we must have a decent living. Another thing I've lost my teeth several years ago and never could have any money to have others placed since, and I think it is unjust to turn us down on our demand. And as for the trackmen; they have served faithfully all through the war and stood by the Government through all the trouble and have never caused no trouble and we never went on strike and we have been up for our demands for almost a year and never our demands for increased of wages have been considered. I am not the only one in these conditions, they are thousands upon thousands are in the same fix as I am in. And the trackmen do not want to cause any trouble or go on strike but it has been very unbearable all this time while the merchants are steadily increasing on the food stuff and other necessaries and comforts of life. And as we are true Americans we are not asking for anything but what is just. But I am very much afraid they will not be able to hold the men much longer as they are so dissatisfied with the present condition. I belong to the Maintenance of Way Dept. I shall thank you for this favor. Or if you don't get to see Mr. Hines please present the letter to one of our representatives as I do not know who they are. I am, respectfully yours, W.H. Haffner, Powhattan, Kansas.982 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. W. H. Haffner, Box B, Powhattan, KANSAS. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 17th received and read with interest. I, indeed, regret to receive the information that conditions are as you state and, in accordance with your request, your communication has been forwarded to Secretary George Seal, United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes and Railway Shop Laborers, 27 Putnam Avenue, Detroit, Michigan with the request that he communicate with you direct. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.983 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. H. L. Evans, Organizer American Federation of Labor, P.O.Box 1503, El Paso, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 13th received in which you advise me that you travel from New Orleans, Louisiana to Portland, Oregon and that the commission sent you for El Paso and vicinity does not cover the territory. Since you were recommended by the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers if you will kindly return your District Commission I shall be glad to issue a new commission for the United States of America. I might state when the recommendation was received from your international union nothing was said about issuing you a commission other than for El Paso, and hence a District commission was forwarded. Asking you to write me again whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor. 984 LAS:AS. November 20 ,1919. Mr. John J. Joyce, Secretary-Treasurer International Longshoreman's Association, 702 Brisbane Bldg., Buffalo, N.Y. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Pascagoula, Mississippi, who is also First Vice-President of the Mississippi State Federation of Labor, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is unaffiliated to the Central Labor Union as well as the State Body. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a local union attached to its international, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Labor Union and State Federation provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article X1. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.985 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. Thomas K. Burke, Secretary-Treasurer United Association of Plumbers and Steam Fitters of the United States and Canada 411 Bush Temple of Music, Chicago, ILL. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Pascagoula, Mississippi, who is also First Vice-President of the Mississippi State Federation of Labor, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is unaffiliated to the Central Labor Union as well as the State Body. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a local union attached to its international, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Labor Union and State Federation provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2,Article X1. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.986 LAS:AS. November 20 , 1919. Mr. William F. Kramer, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, 1150 Transportation Building, Chicago, ILLINOIS. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Pascagoula, Mississippi, who is also First Vice-President of the Mississippi State Federation of Labor, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is unaffiliated to the Central Labor Union as well as the State Body. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a local union attached to its international, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Labor Union and State Federation provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article X1. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.[*987*] LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. R. F. Reinemeyer, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Boiler Makers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America, Room 309 Wyandotte Bldg., Kansas City, KANSAS. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Pascagoula, Mississippi, who is also First Vice-President of the Mississippi State Federation of Labor, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is unaffiliated to the Central Labor Union as well as the State Body. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a local union attached to its International, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your Local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Labor Union and State Federation provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.988 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. N. C. Davison, Secretary-Treasurer International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Pascagoula, Mississippi, who is also First Vice-President of the Mississippi State Federation of Labor, in which he advises me that the Local Union of your organization in that city is unaffiliated to the Central Labor Union as well as the State Body. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by a local union attached to its international, and I would therefore appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your local in the city named and urge upon it the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Central Labor Union and State Federation provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article X1. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.989 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. Charles H. Franck, Secretary Central Labor Union, Box 27, Pascagoula, MISSISSIPPI. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 17th received and read with interest. I shall write to Mr. A. J. Berres, Secretary-Treasurer Metal Trades Department, American Federation of Labor, 402 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D.C.,and as soon as I hear from him I shall be glad to write you further. I shall also communicate with the Boiler Makers and Iron Shipbuilders, Plumbers and Steam Fitters, Longshoremen, Machinists and Blacksmiths requesting that they urge their local unions to affiliate with the Mississippi State Federation of Labor as well as your Central Labor Union. I trust this will have the desired effect, and I would ask that within a reasonable length of time you advise me if these local unions still remain unaffiliated to your organization. I am glad to receive the information that a weekly labor paper is about to be established and I would suggest that you forward a copy990 -2- of the same to this office when we shall be glad to enter the same upon the list to receive the American Federation of Labor Weekly News Letter. You ask me to prepare a short article for publication, and also whether or not there is any objection to reprinting articles appearing in the Weekly American Federation of Labor Newsletter, and whether or not you are permitted to print articles by myself. Permit me to state that the Weekly Newsletter is forwarded to the labor papers throughout the United States and Canada for the purpose of supplying the labor journals with full information relative to the movement, and all of our labor papers publish at least a portion of the news contained in the weekly newsletter. Relative to my articles,I may state that you have my permission to print any of the same appearing in the American Federationist, which no doubt is to what you refer, providing due credit is given to the official magazine of the American Federation of Labor. Now as to my preparing an article for your paper, I beg to state that I would be glad to comply with your request, but my duties are so manifold at the present time that it is absolutely impossible now to write an article, but if you will communicate with me somtime later, and if the opportunity presents itself, I shall try and comply with your request.991 -3- Wishing the new labor paper every success, and asking you to write me again whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.992 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. A. J. Berres, Secretary-Treasurer Metal Trades Department, American Federation of Labor, 402 A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D.C. Dear Sir and Brother: In a communication from Secretary Charles H. Franck, Central Labor Union, Box 27, Pascagoula, Mississippi he states to me in part as follows:- "Several weeks ago the Central Labor Union protested the granting of a charter for a Metal Trades Council, in this port on the ground that several of the Unions are not eligible under the A. F. of L. Constitution (Article 11 - Section 10), and also that some of the Locals had withdrawn from the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union was not opposed to the Metal Trades Council but protested the eligibility of Unions who were not connected with the Central Labor Union. This protest was sent to the Metal Trades Department and in reply Secretary Barris wrote, that the application had not yet been received. The Council has been organized, and Unions are connected with it who are not member of the Central Labor Union. Some of these locals have been told by their International representatives that it was not necessary to be affiliated with the Central Labor Union, and have also been told that there is no necessity for the Central Labor Union now that the Metal Trades Council is on the job. I may not be reading the A. F. of L. Constitution right but my interpretation is, that a Union cannot belong to Local Department Council unless it is affiliated with the Central Labor Union and vice-versa. I would also appreciate if you would bring this matter to the993 -2- attention of Secretary Berrie of the Metal Trades Department and request him to notify the Secretary of the Local Metal Trades Council that unions must be affiliated with the Central Labor Union and I would appreciate your advising me relative to the above so that I may communicate further with Secretary Franck. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.994 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. J. R. Pilant, Secretary Cairo Central Labor Union, 421 - 35th Street, Cairo, ILL. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of October 29th received. I deeply regret that because of so many demands being made upon our paid organizers that it is impossible at this particular time to send a representative to Cairo. However, the matter will be kept in mind and as soon as one of our organizers can be spared I shall direct that he visit your city. You ask that the commission issued to Organizer G. J. Gilmore be withdrawn because he"tried to burst F.L.U.#16125 by organizing for shop workers union which does not affiliate with the A. F. of L." Before removing Organizer Gilmore from the records I would appreciate your furnishing me with full information as to the activities of Organizer Gilmore in the matter about which you complain. As soon as I hear from you I shall give the request of the Central Labor Union my immediate attention. Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. William Green, Secretary-Treasurer United Mine Workers of America, 1102 Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, INDIANA. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Central Body of Coshocton, Ohio advising me that there are about twenty miners' unions in the above city which fail to send delegates to the Trades and Labor Council. I am sure that you can readily realize the disadvantage which results from such a course being followed by local unions attached to your International, and I would appreciate it very much if you would kindly communicate with your local unions in the city named and urge upon them the necessity and advisability of taking prompt steps to become affiliated with the Trades and Labor Council, as provided by the Constitution of the American Federation of Labor, Section 2, Article X1. Trusting that this will receive your prompt attention, and thanking you in advance, I am, Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor996 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. Fred Fish, Secretary Central Trade and Labor Council, 1511 Orchard St., Coschocton, OHIO. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 16th received and contents noted. Permit me to thank you for your report relative to my communication dealing with library employes. In accordance with your request I am today communicating with Secretary William Green, United Mine Workers of America, 1102 Merchants Bank Bldg., Indianapolis, Indiana asking that he write his local unions in vicinity of Coshocton to affiliate with your Central Body. If within a reasonable length of time the miners remain unaffiliated kindly advise me. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.997 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. H. J. Conway, Secretary-Treasurer Retail Clerks' International Protective Association, Lock Drawer 248, Lafayette, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication from Mr. R. Q. Jennings, Secretary of Local Union #359 of the International Union of United Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers of America, Sikeston, Missouri, in which he states there is an excellent opportunity to form a local union of your international in the above town, and states that he would be glad to take up the work if you will forward full information. I have informed Brother Jennings that I would communicate with you with the request that you kindly write him direct. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.998 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. Thomas L. Hughes, Secretary-Treasurer International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen, and Helpers, 222 East Michigan St., Iniianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication from Mr. R. Q. Jennings, Secretary of Local Union #359 of the International Union of United Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers of America, Sikeston, Missouri, in which he states there is an excellent opportunity to form a local union of your international in the above town, and states that he would be glad to take up the work if you will forward full information. I have informed Brother Jennings that I would communicate with you with the request that you kindly write him direct. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am, Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.999 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. A. Persion, Secretary-Treasurer International Hod Carriers, Building and Common Laborers' Union of America, 25 School St., Quincy, MASS. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication from Mr. R. Q. Jennings, Secretary off Local Union #359 of the International Union of United Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers of America, Sikeston, Missouri, in which he states there is an excellent opportunity to form a local union of your international in the above town, and states that he would be glad to take up the work if you will forward full information. I have informed Brother Jennings that I would communicate with you with the request that you kindly write him direct. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.1000 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. Jacob Fischer, Secretary-Treasurer Journeymen Barbers' International Union, 232 East Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: I am in receipt of a communication from Mr. R. Q. Jennings, Secretary off Local Union #359 of the International Union of United Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers of America, Sikeston, Missouri, in which he states there is an excellent opportunity to form a local union of your international in the above town, and states that he would be glad to take up the work if you will forward full information. I have informed Brother Jennings that I would communicate with you with the request that you kindly write him direct. Thanking you in advance for compliance with this request, I am, Fraternally yours Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.1001 LAS:AS. November 20,1919. Mr. R. Q. Jennings, Secretary International Union of United Brewery, Flour, Cereal and Soft Drink Workers, Local Union #359, Sikeston, Missouri. Dear Sir and Brother: Your favor of November 15th received and read with interest. You state there are possibilities of forming a number of new unions in your town and I am, therefore, communicating with the international officers as follows:- Retail Clerks' International Protective Association, Secretary- Treasurer H. J. Conway, Lock Drawer 248, Lafayette, Indiana., Journeymen Barbers' International Union, Secretary-Treasurer Jacob Fischer, 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, International Hod Carriers, Building and Common Laborers' Union of America, Secretary-Treasurer A. Persion, 25 School Street, Quincy, Massachusetts, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers, Secretary-Treasurer Thomas L. Hughes, 222 East Michigan Street, Indianapolis, Indiana. You no doubt will hear from all of them at an early date.1002 -2- With best wishes, and trusting to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, President, American Federation of Labor.1003 LFL. November 20, 1919. Mr. C. Russell Shetterly, 2039 Ogden Street, Denver, Colorado:- Dear Sir:- Your letter of November 6th received and contents noted. You say "I am at the present time taking a post-graduate course of study in the University of Denver, and in connection with this I am making a rather detailed study of employees' representation in the internal management of industrial corporations, involving such plans as the Rockefeller plan and the Leitch plan of industrial democracy. Would you kindly let me know what attitude the American Federation of Labor and labor generally take of these plans and of the idea of employees' representation as a possible solution of the problem of capital and labor?". In reply let me say that as Editor of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST the official monthly publication of the American Federation of Labor, I have discussed the above from time to time in various editorials. The editorials I have in mind particularly are the following: Labor representation essential. Samuel Gompers. Ed. Sept. 1918, v. 35, p 808-810. Describes the "works" committees recommended by the British ministry of labor, compares them with the shop committees developed by the U.S. national war labor board, and describes the application of the principle in the Bethlehem award. Steps toward democracy. Samuel Gompers. Ed. Sept. 1918, v. 25, p. 805-808. Includes the text of the national war labor board's award in the Bethlehem Steel Co. case and comments favorably upon the "shop committee" idea. Labor representation essential. Samuel Gompers. Ed. August, 1917, v. 24, p.641-642. Urges labor representation upon all Government agencies dealing with labor matters. Democracy's Strength Is Only in Democracy. John R. Alpine, Ed. Discusses the abolition of the individual contract in the National war labor board award in the Smith and Wesson1004 Mr. C. Russell Shetterly-----#2 case, and declares that collective bargaining is the one great step toward industrial democracy, or participation by the employees in industrial management. If you will call upon Mr. Thomas P. Rodgers, Secretary of the Trades and Labor Assembly of Denver, Colorado, Box No. 1016, I am sure he will be very glad to afford you the opportunity of consulting the files of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST in his office. If your paper is published, I should very much like you to send me a copy of it. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.1005 WASHINGTON D C NOVEMBER 21, 1919 MR JOSEPH BARONDESS 37 EAST SEVENTH ST NEW YORK CITY TELGRAM RECEIVED WHILE I AM IN ENTIRE ACCORD WITH THE PURPOSES OF THE MEETING WHICH WILL BE HELD NOVEMEBER TWENTY FOURTH TO PROTEST AGAINST THE MESSACRE OF THE NEWS IN UKRANIA YET ENGAGEMENTS OF LONG STANDING PREVENT MY ACCEPTING THE INVITATION I THEREFORE SUGGESTED TO MR BERNSTINE THAT SOMEONE ELSE SHOULD BE SELECTED TO FILL THE HONORED POSITION OF CHAIRMAN OF THE MEETING SAMUEL GOMPERS CHARGE A F OF L1006 VLY Nov. 20,1919. Mr. Daniel J. Tobin, President, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Stablemen and Helpers of America, 222 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, Indiana. Dear Sir and Brother: When you were recently at headquarters attending the meeting of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor, you brought to my attention the protest from your local union in Tacoma, Washington against the withdrawal of the commission held by Joseph H. Lyons volunteer organizer for Tacoma and vicinity. I took the matter up with William H. Short, President of the Washington State Federation of Labor, and am now in receipt of a reply from him in which he says: "I have two letters from you of recent date, and this is the first opportunity I have had to answer the same, as we have been wrapped up for the last two weeks in an open shop campaign here at Seattle with the organized employers of the city. "Your first letter dealt with the revocation of a former organizer's commission, that of Joseph H. Lyons, of Tacoma, a member of the Teamsters' Union. The Central Labor Council of Tacoma, some time ago, had asked for the revocation of his commission and you had complied with their request. The matter was later taken up with you through the Teamsters' Union at Tacoma, and through Daniel Tobin, their International President. Copies of communications in connection therewith you enclosed in your letter to me, asking for my opinion in connection therewith. "There has been a bitter personal controversy on within the ranks of Labor at Tacoma for the past year or more, and the demand made for the revocation of Brother Lyons commission I am satisfied was based largely on personal grounds. "The State Federation of Labor called together at Tacoma last Sunday the representatives of all Locals, including those of the Railroad organizations in a joint conference for the purpose of bringing about complete unity in their ranks, and theelimination of all personal feeling that had brought about the division now existing there. We had a very successful meeting that lasted all day, and steps are now being taken to bring about complete unity and support of the American Federation of Labor. In view of the steps now being taken in this direction I would advise that the commission of Brother Lyons be restored."1007 -2- Therefore, in compliance with the above, I am very glad to re-issue the commission to Mr. Lyons, and have so advised him, as you will note from the enclosed carbon copy of my letter to him. I sincerely trust that the situation in Tacoma and in the whole state of Washington will gradually work out in line with the principles and policy of the American Federation of Labor. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.1008 VLY November 20,1919. Mr. Joseph H. Lyons, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, 302 Tacoma Ave., Tacoma, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother: Mr.William H. Short, President of the Washington State Federation of Labor has written me very fully regarding the situation in Takoma, about which I wrote him in connection with the recommendation of the Tacoma Central Labor Union for the withdrawal of your commission as volunteer organizer for the American Federation of Labor. President Tobin of the Brotherhood of Teamsters took the matter up with me, and I then submitted the entire situation to Mr. Short and requested his advice. In his reply he states: "The State Federation of Labor called together at Tacoma last Sunday the representatives of all Locals, including those of the Railroad organizations, in a joint conference for the purpose of bringing about complete unity in their ranks, and the elimination of all personal feeling that had brought about the division now existing there. We had a very successful meeting that lasted all day, and steps are now being taken to bring about complete unity and support of the American Federation of Labor. "In view of the steps now being taken in this direction I would advise that the commission of Brother Lyons be restored." Therefore, in compliance with the above recommendation, I ahve directed that your commission as volunteer organizer for Tacoma and vicinity be reissued to you. It will be sent to you under separate cover and I trust will reach you safely. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you whenever convenient, I am Fraternally yours, Saml Gompers. President, Labor.1009 VLY Nov.20,1919. Mr. W. M. Short, President, Washington State Federation of Labor, 508 Maynard Bldg., Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother. Your letter of November 5th received and I have read with the deepest interest your report regarding the situation in the general labor movement of the state, and what the state Federation of Labor has done in Tacoma to try to restore unity in the ranks of labor in that city. You say that the day's conference which recently was held in Tacoma by the representatives of the State Federation of Labor and the local unions of the city, was very successful and that steps are now being taken to bring about complete unity and support of the American Federation of Labor. You then recommend that in view of this that the commission of Joseph H. Lyons be re-issued to him as volunteer organizer for Tacoma and vicinity. This will immediately be done, and the Tacoma Central Labor Union will be so notified. I also note your suggestion regarding Organizer Taylor, and I fully concur in the plan for assigning Mr. Taylor to work in Oregon and California and to appoint some other organizer for Washington. Just as soon as I receive your recommendation it will be given prompt attention. I am indeed glad to know that you believe the organizations representing the American Federation of Labor Policy are getting the situation in the state fully in hand, and that you believe you will be ultimately successful. This is very gratifying information and you have my best wishes for success. Hoping to hear from you often and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.1010 VLY Nov. 18,1919. Mr. Fred A. Hubbard, 6248 Drexel Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir: Your letter of November 3rd, addressed to Mrs. Gompers, was handed to me upon my return to the city after an absence of some days on official business. The records at my office fail to locate any previous correspondence received from you. You state that upon three occasions in the past three months you have addressed communications to me, but you do not indicate the nature of such communications, nor the exact dates. In order to make a further search of the records at this office it will be necessary for me to have more complete information as to the subjects with which your letters deal. Very truly yours, Sam'l Gompers, President, American Federation of Labor.1011 EP November 19, 1919. Mr. J. P. Noonan, Acting President, Int'l Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 405-18 Reisch Bldg., Springfield, Ill. Dear Sir and Brother:- A man in whom I have the utmost confidence wrote me a few days ago and in his letter, among other things, he said: "A man who is thoroughly familiar with conditions in Seattle and in the logging camps and also knows Haywood and all the I.W.W. leaders intimately, told me that the most dangerous of them all is Leon Green, his real name being Botowsky. He says that Green is the business agent of the Electrical Workers in Seattle and that, after the trouble there, he went to Chicago. There he chummed with Foster who was at that time openly for the One Big Union." I am giving you the above for what it is worth and am leaving it in your hands for whatever disposition you desire to make of it. Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor.1012 E. Nov. 20, 1919. Mr. Fred E. Lucas, Recording Secretary, Canton Central Labor Union, 211 Market Ave. N., Canton, Ohio. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your favor of November 10th received and contents noted. You state that your central body is having trouble because some of the delegates who have credentials of their local unions are not actively engaged at their trade and that you have been instructed to get a ruling as to whether these delegates are entitled to a voice and vote in your Central Labor Union. In reply your attention is called to the section of the convention of the American Federation of Labor held in Buffalo, New York, November 12-24, 1917, pages 456, 457 of the proceedings of that convention. You will note that the convention declined to approve a resolution the purport of which was to define who would be eligible as delegates from local unions to central bodies and state federations of labor. During the discussion which ensued I stated: "So long as a man or woman maintains his or her proper relations in the international union of which they are members, the membership having confidence in them, no objection has ever been raised to their qualifications as delegates to this convention." The chairman for the committee on laws also stated: "The committee held that the passage of this resolution restricting the membership of the central bodies was by indirection a limitation on the autonomous rights of national and international unions to say who should and who should not be members of that organization. From a political standpoint it is simply impossible, for there must be thousands of men holding wards and holding political office."-Mr. Lennon. With kind regards and hoping to hear from you again whenever convenient, I am, Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers. Pres. A.F. OF L.1013 November 20, 1919. Mr. William English Walling, Brookside Drive, Milford, Connecticut. Dear Mr. Walling: Now that the elections have been held in France, Belgium and Italy, I think it would be a most timely idea to have an article in the January issue of the AMERICAN FEDERATIONIST. It is too late, of course, for the December issue. I would be very grateful to you if you would write something for me. Thanking you in advance, I am, Sincerely yours, Saml Gompers1014 LFL. November 19, 1919 Mr. A. L. Parker, Publicity Department, Rothacker Film Manufacturing Company, 1339-1351 Diversey Parkway, Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir:– Replying to your letter of November 12th I beg to enclose to you herein a brief paragraph to be used by you in your thirft campaign. My best wishes for your success. Very truly yours, Saml Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.1015 Statement given by President Gompers regarding the Thrift Campaign conducted by the Y.M.C.A in response to the request of A. L. Parker, Publicity Department, Rothacker Film Manufacturing Company, 1339-1351 Diversity Parkway, Chicago, Illinois, November 19,1919. The sale of the War Savings and Thrift Stamps helps to keep the great wheels of the American government turning at their proper speed. With the high pitch of war excitement almost gone, this work is one of the perseverance in the line of duty. The men and women who sell and the men and women who buy are doing a work no less worthy than it was when our troops sent charging over the Hindenburg line. It is no less worthy now than it was when the drums were beating. And it is no less needed.1016 VLY November18,1919 Mr. Thomas Sweeney, Secretary Journeyman Tailors' Union of America, East 66th St. & Stony Island Ave., Chicago, Illinois. Dear Sir and Brother: Enclosed you will please find copy of a letter which I have just received from Mr. W. W. Lynn, Legislative Committeeman of the Oregon State Federation of Labor. You will also find enclosed a copy of the newspaper clipping to which he refers, dealing with the tailors of Portland. It may be that you are already in possession of the information given by Mr. Lynn, but in any event it seemed to me that I should immediately transmit to you a copy of his letter. I should be very glad to hear from you regarding the matter, and of course if there is anything I can do to be helpful please advise me. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience and with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours Saml Gompers. President, American Federation of Labor. Enclosure.1017 PORTLAN, ORE. Nov. 11th, 1919. Hon. Samuel Gompers, Washington, D. C. My dear Mr. Gompers: I am enclosing for your perusal a clipping from yesterday's daily Journal; I have a comment to make. This is either false or it is true. I am not in a position to know. But whichever it is, it is having a serious effect on the labor movement, losing labor many friends. If it is merely propaganda of the employers to enable them to fleece the public under false pretenses, it should be exposed in no uncertain way. If it is a fact that these men are getting these wages and are in a position to change the wages to a higher scale at a moments notice, it is wrong, as it only tends to keep conditions of both labor and trade in a chaotic state, and is the cause of continued unrest. Back to law and order and settled conditions should be the slogan of every true friend of labor. Very truly yours, Walter G. Lynn (signed) Legislative Committeeman State Federation of Labor & Chairman Laws and Legislative Committee at recent State Convention of Federation.1018 COPY-VLY DAILY JOURNAL PORTLAND NOV. 10,1919. PRICE OF CLOTHES WILL BE BOOSTED HERE THIS SPRING. Merchants returning from East say high priced labor has control of clothing houses. SOME GET WAGE OF $79. Foreigners who can hardly read or write get wages that come to $4000 a year is report The policy of clothing workers in the eastern factories will cause another increase in the price of clothes this coming spring, according to Portland merchants who returned from a trip through the eastern manufacturing centers. A letter from Pershing, Coombs & Levison, New York manufacturers, was received by a local firm last week. This letter, which was signed by James Pershing, brother to General Pershing, stated that pressers who could neither speak, read nor write English, were getting $79 for a 44-hour week, or $1,80 an hour, or $4000 a year, and that the firm is not sure there will not be a further increase before work is begun on the spring goods. The letter stated DEMANDS INCREASING "We are getting in addition to this, less and less work from our shops all the time." A Portland merchant, commenting on this situation, said: "Due to the great demand caused by the return of our soldiers, and the needs of a public that held off for as long as its clothing held together; due also to the desire of another section of the public to live high while the wage is high, we are now facing a high demand for clothes and a growing scarcity of garments with which to supply this demand. "I was startled to see the seeming prosperity of the East, where the public was paying all kinds of fancy prices, prices we of Portland cannot imagine. In Marshall Field's in Chicago, overcoats that were priced from $60 to $125 were selling faster than coats of a similar quality that sold for half that price in 1914. Today, however, it is the white-collared salaried man who is purchasing the $60 coats, while the artisans and mechanics are paying the highest prices. LABOR IN FULL CONTROL. "When I went East, I felt, in common with many retailers, that the manufacturers were bleeding the public, When I arrived on the ground and found that labor was costing twice as much as materials, and that manufacturers were like puppets in the hands of walking1019 -2- delegates and organized foreigners, I came to the conclusion that if there is profiteering among any class, it is not among the manufacturers of clothing. Many of them have been so menaced by Labor that they have gone out of business." It is stated by Portland clothing retailers that it is no longer possible to order what the dealer or the trade wants. Each dealer is allotted so many suits of clothes or overcoats, according to his past volume of business. It is said the situation is not due to any marked shortage of materials, but mainly to the decreased output of the high-priced labor that has a strangle hold on the industry. GET $79 A WEEK A traveling man who was exhibiting his samples in the Hotel Portland this week said that he witnessed a walking delegate parade through the office of an eastern clothing manufacturer, rap on a table in the workroom and announce, "Next week you get a $8 advance." The delegate then turned to the employers and gave them this order, Txxxxx This salesman stated that tailors and pressers who were paid from $18 to 23$ a week in 1914 for a 60-hour week are now paid from $50 to $79 for a 44-hour week, and get time and a half for overtime. A raid was made by federal officers, November 6, on the Chicago headquarters of the Amalgamated Clothing workers, in which it is alleged that incriminating evidence was obtained, indicating that walking delegates were using their authority to extort large sums of money from manufacturers.1020 KP Nov. 19, 1919. Mr. Robert Hesketh, Vice-Pres., Hotel & Restaurant Employes Int'l. Alliance, P.O. Box 594, Seattle, Washington. Dear Sir and Brother:- Your letter of November 13 received and contents noted. By a later mail I assume I will receive the pages from the Seattle papers which you refer to. It is more than kind of you to send them to me. I do appreciate it. I am so crowded all of the time that you can very readily understand that, unless those who are interested in various sections of the country send me special press references, the special matters with which they deal would otherwise be likely to escape my attention. It is very helpful to me to know that you and the other staunch, true trade unionists are on guard and watching and fighting for the interests of the true constructive trade union movement. Surely there has never been a time in the history of the American Labor movement when the loyalty, calm reason and constructive work are so sorely needed and so necessary to the maintenance of our beloved Labor movement. Hoping to hear from you from time to time, with kind regards, I am Fraternally yours Sam Gompers President American Federation of Labor.1021 LFL. November 19th, 1910 Mrs. Robert F. Atkinson, 1806 Mt. Vernon Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Dera Madam:- Your letter of November 18th with enclosures received and contents noted. I am too crowded now to read in detail the numerous documents you enclosed. I would suggest that you call upon the official representative of the American Federation of Labor in Philadelphia, Mr. Joseph Richie, Rooms 823-824 Heed Building, 1211 Filbert Street, present your case to him and he will then make a report to me. Very truly yours, Sam Gompers Persident, American Federation of Labor.1022 KP November20, 1919. Mr. Edwin Houston, Secretary, Texas Swine Breeders Association, San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, San Antonio, Texas. Dear Sir:- The very great pressure of immediately vital and important matters has prevented my making an earlier reply to your interesting letter of October 31, received November 4. Your letter will be a valuable contribution to the data I am getting together on the subject of the farmers and whether there can be any plan worked out for better co-operation between the farmers and farmers' organization and wage earners and wage earners' organizations. I am hopeful that the conference of December 13 will be productive of practical results in the interest of both parties. I fully concur in the opinion you express as to the vital necessity of getting back to the land and producing more food. I co-operated in every way within my power with Secretary Lane in his plans for providing farming lands for the returned soldiers and sailors. After all is said and done there is no escape from the fact that unless the farmers produce sufficient food our entire social and industrial system will fall to the ground. I am sending to you, under separate cover, some of our printed matter which is commended to your thoughtful attention. Hoping to hear from you further at your convenience, I am Very truly yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.1023 k-2 nov. 21, 1919. Mr. R. J. Beeman, Secretary, Panhandle Shop Crafts Federation, Amarillo, Texas. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter containing copy of constitution and by-laws of Central Labor Union of Amarillo, Texas, received. You ask for its approval. There are so many violations of the laws of the American Federation of Labor contained in the constitution that you submit that we are hereby returning it with a copy of a model constitution prepared by the American Federation of Labor. I suggest that you take the model constitution and by-laws and prepare a new constitution for your central labor union. It is not in the province of a central labor body to issue working cards to members of local unions. Article VII in its entirety almost is in direct violation of the laws of the American Federation of Labor. A central body can make no laws governing the action of a member of any local union in trade matters. A central body cannot make a scale of wages, nor call strikes. When local unions join with a central labor union they do not give up any of their rights and their members are subject to the laws of their respective unions. After you have made the corrections suggested return the copy of the constitution for approval. With best wishes for yourself and organization, I am Yours fraternally, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor. Encl. 2[*1024*] VLY Nov. 10, 1919. Mr. Walter G. Lynn, Legislative Comitteeman, Oregon State Federation of Labor, 348 Crosby St., Portland, Oregon. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 11th was duly received. You enclose a clipping from the Portland Daily Journal of November 10th, with the statement that in your opinion if the report is purely propaganda of the employers, it should be exposed; and if it is a fact, something should be done, as it tends to keep conditions of both labor and trade in a state of unrest. The newspaper clipping deals with conditions in the clothing trade. I have transmitted a copy of the clipping to the International Secretary of the Journeymen Tailors' Union of America, with the request that he advise me in regard to the matter. I shall be glad to advise you of any information furnished me. With best wishes, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.[*1025*] VLY November 20, 1919. Mr. Santiago Iglesias, Organizer, American Federation of Labor, Box 270, San Juan, Porto Rico. Dear Sir and Brother: Your letter of November 6th just received and contents noted. I have no doubt but that by this time you have heard direct from President O'Connor of the International Longshoremen's Association regarding the longshoremen of Porto Rico, but nevertheless I shall write to him and send him a copy of your letter to me. Of course you understand that all matters affecting the rights and interests of the Longshoremen's organization must be dealt with by the International Association, and anything done by the American Federation of Labor must be done at the request of the International Association. I shall be very glad to be helpful in any way within my power to the longshoremen of Porto Rico and shall await President O'Connor's advice. With kind regards and best wishes, for ultimate success, I am Fraternally yours, Sam Gompers President, American Federation of Labor.