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History
A Brief History of Local Union 153
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 153, which now covers Berrien and Cass counties in Michigan and St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall, and Kosciusko counties in Indiana was chartered on April 21st, 1914. There were only 18 electrical workers at the time. Those charter members were Fred Champaigne, Louis J. Brehmer, Omer C. Naftzger, Roy Watt, Calvin Beatty, William Weber, C. Sinnoth, Rob Elliott, R.J. Suabedissen, W.A. Henry, Walter A. Stickley, Lester E. Beatty, E.A. Nimtz, R.M. Dice, Leo A. Mathis, Frank Hamer, Oliver Davis, and B.J. Doehmer. Although those brothers have passed away, we all owe them a debt of gratitude for having the courage to start our Local Union back in those early days.
Back in 1914, there was very little to encourage this small group of men. The opposition to Unions at that time was very active and bitter. The obstacles seemed to be insurmountable and many a less hardy soul would have given up in despair.
Our Local Union not only survived, but has grown because these men and those who followed have organized the electrical industry in our area. They have promoted reasonable methods of work, cultivated feelings of friendship among our contractors and those in our industry, settled disputes between the parties in a reasonable manner and assisted each other in times of need. They have been able to secure a high standard of living and security for their members because of the Local Union's high standard of quality and productivity.
"Only a fool would deprive working men and women of the right to join the union of their choice."
-Dwight D. Eisenhower
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(Excerpt from IBEW Local #153 90th Anniversary part speech by: Corey Noland.)
1914 was a remarkable year in history. It marked the beginning of World War I, the opening of the Panama Canal and the establishment of Mother's Day. As these events still affect our lives today, so do the actions of a few electricians from this area. For on the 21st day of April of that year they were granted a charter from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. This marked the beginning of IBEW Local #153.
The 18 founding Members realized that by uniting with electrical workers everywhere they, and generations to come, would better be able to achieve; higher standards of quality, safer working conditions, adequate compensation, individual security, and the elevation of their moral, intelectual and social conditions.
Our Founding Fathers could not possibly have imagined the endless evolution of this industry that we continue to see today. However I am confident that they were well aware that together we would meet any challange and overcome every obstacle to secure the future and enhance the lives of our Members and their families.
Throughout the history of our Local our Membership has endeavored to achieve each of these goals with tremendous passion. The gifts from generations past however hold with them an obligation, an obligation to improve upon them and deliver them to the future.
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