MINERS UNION HALL
A Strong Labor Union Kept the Peace

Today, only photos and stories remain of the Miners Union Hall that once resonated with dances, theater, harvest festivals and union meetings. Workers completed the massive building on June 20,1898.

The union negotiated with mine owners for fair pay, working hours and safety rules. All miners joined the Garnet Western Labor Union. The mine owners endorsed the union and even donated this property, located on the Mary Anderson claim. The union helped to ensure that festivities and unity, rather than violent labor disputes, would be the order of the day.

Miners Union Day, June, 1900
The annual Miners Union Day celebrated the formation of the Western Federation of Miners in 1893. Community members entered foot races, drilling contests, and oratories. They topped off the festivities with an outdoor barbecue. The Miners Union Hall collapsed during one of Garnet's long, snowy winters.

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Town of Garnet Named in 1897
Family Living in a Gold Mining Town?
Riches Fade
Saving Garnet Ghost Town
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J. K. Wells Hotel
Davey's General Store
Ole's Tavern
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Blacksmith Shop
Garnet School
Jail
Adams House
Honeymoon Cabin
Warren Park
Highlights from interview with Mary Jane Morin, June 11, 1999
Letter from Hills Bros. Coffee to Mrs. Adams
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Copyright © 2000, Garnet Preservation Association and Bureau of Land Management of Montana