The Seattle Mill Strike of 1885

At the Yesler saw and blooming mill, notice was posted that a reduction in wages would go into effect today. It is understood that ten percent is the amount of the reduction. Upon consulting, the mill employees were notified at 4 o'clock that unless the reduction was declared void they would strike. No arrangements could be made at that early hour, and after working the last 'changes,' all the men left the mill. This strike proved so contagious to the mill's and the lumber firm's other works, which were shut down had the strikers departed to their homes in a body. The only departments which continued operations were the foundry works and the wire and brick rod mill. Later, the boiler makers and the yard brakemen struck. Manager R. H. Denny had a consultation with the brakemen at 8 a.m. and promised to restore the drop in their wages. They then returned to work. At 9:30 a.m., the mill men decided to turn out and the works that day left men idle at this time. The rail mill men were told at about 10 o'clock that if they would return to work their wages would not be reduced. This announcement was received by cheers from the men. The boiler makers, who also received notice of a reduction, struck at about 11 o'clock, with the help of the rail and blooming mill. Now all departments of the mill are closed.