Thurston-Lewis-Mason Central Labor Council
Our History
Updated On: Jan 10, 2023

Our region has a rich history - but unfortunately, working people's history and labor history is often not taught in schools. Here are a few historic events you may have missed:

"The Girls"

In 1911, a serious explosion occurred at the Imperial Powder Company, just outside of Centralia, WA, that killed eight young women and changed the course of workers compensation and labor history.

Local newspaper columnist Bill Moeller and talk-show host John Panesko gave a presentation at the August 17, 2011 TLMCLC meeting, sharing the story of the tragic event, the discovery of the group gravesite, and the efforts to memorialize “The Girls.”

The TLMCMC is donating $1,000 to help purchase the memorial that both Bill and John talk about. We hope you’ll consider a donation, too.

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The IWW and the Centralia Massacre

During a 1919 Armistice Day parade, American Legionnaires rushed the I.W.W. union hall to attack the Wobblies positioned inside their hall and run them out of town. Because Wobblies had been similarly attacked two years before, they stood armed and ready inside the hall, as well as at points across the street. Local author Herb Fuller has carefully researched the events of that day and its aftermath, and has generously given us permission to publish his manuscript. Read it here.

Related Links


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Contact Info
Thurston-Lewis-Mason Central Labor Council
PO Box 66
Olympia, WA 98507
 

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