The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America
officially began in 1881 when 36 delegates from 14 local unions in
11 different cities decided to organize themselves producing a
stronger voice. They desired to be on equal terms with employers,
establish shorter workdays and increase pay for the work provided.
Most importantly, they wanted to spread their work among as many
members as possible. By
...
the turn of the century, the Carpenters strengthened from 679
locals with 69,000 members to 2,015 locals with 261,000 members.
But, even with all of its gains, there was still an obvious need
for a stronger national organization. Over the next 40 years, the
Brotherhood fought hard to gain members and respect. By the end of
World War II, membership in the United Brotherhood soared to
700,000. Since then, the Brotherhood has made great advances
throughout North America and has established itself as one of the
nation’s largest, strongest and most respected unions. Today, we
have over 532,000 members, representing 872 locals.
