Today in Labor History Nov 17 "to provide cultural, educational and social services to families

[Omaha Steve]

November 17

The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen of the City of New York is founded "to provide cultural, educational and social services to families of skilled craftsmen." The Society remains in existence to this day - 1785

And this: November 17, 1785 - In a tavern at Pine and Broadway in New York City, the General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen was founded as a mutual benefit society. A library, clubhouse, bank and school were later established for the use of apprentices, mechanics, tradesmen and their families. The Society still exists today.

International Brotherhood of Longshoremen change name to Longshoremen’s Association - 1959

Labor history found here: http://www.unionist.com/today-in-labor-history & here: http://www.workdayminnesota.org/index.php?history_9_11_17_2010