The Railroad Telegrapher Volume 37, Part 1 January-June 1920

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The Railroad Telegrapher VOL. XXXVII -1 920 Published in St. Louis, Mo. by The Order of Railroad Telegraphers VON HOFFMANN PRESS SAINT LOUIS Digitized by Google

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INDEX EDITORIAL. Act, Be Prepared to ...1381 Act, Transportation.. 1391 Agents, Classification of 702 A. F. of L. Convention, The 823 Americanism, A Menace to 35 Americanism Menaced 152 American Legion, Labor and the 435 Anti -Sedition Bill, W. J. Burke Opposes. 153 Bank of North Dakota, The 946 Bipartisan Board, The 437 Birthday, Our 693 Blanton, Congressman Rebuked 316. 318 Board of Directors, Report of 694, 1279 Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions, Hearings 1 Boards of Adjustment, National 1286 Burke. W. J., Opposes Anti -Sedition Bill 153 Campaign, Great -Thing to Do in 1063 Campaign., The Recent 1382 Canadian Railway Board of Adjustment No. 18, 1067, 1399 Capper, Senator of Kansas, Speech of... 154 Chamber of Commerce, United States, Planks Adopted by the 1065 Chicago & Eastern Illinois Railroad vs. Telegraphers *387 Chicago & North Western Railroad vs. Telegraphers 1384, 1385 Cleveland, Cincinnati. Chicago & St. Louis Railroad vs. Telegraphers. 1173, 1388 Coal Mining, Federal Commission on 43 Congressman Blanton Rebuked 316, 318 Congress of Negation, A 703 Co-Operative Spirit, »The New 717 Co-Operative Stores 7383 Cost of Living, Excessive 154 Death of Our Grand Secretary and Treasurer Debate, The Gompers and Allen 69C Decision No. 2, Application of 1293, 1390 Decision of Questions Submitted to the U S. Railroad Administration 18 Decisions, New 1168. 1289. 1292. 1384 Decisions on Labor Questions, Court <19 Decisipn, The Wage 815 Elections, O. R. T. Division 1379 Employment Bureau 436 Federal Commission on Coal Mining 43 Friends. Remember Our, Defeat Our Enemies 334. 948 General Order 65, United States Railroad Administration 18 Gompers and Allen Debate 696 Gompers, Samuel... 43, 428. 579, 696, 763, 767, 1065, 1163, 1285, 1380 Grievances, Labor and Its 36 Hakes, Albert W., Death of 1378 Hearings, Board of Railroad Wages and « Working Conditions 1 Hearings. Interstate Commerce Commis- sion 1287 Hughes, James L., Honored 945 Industrial Conference, The President’s.. 11 Interchurch Committee Assails United States Steel Company’s Policy 937 Interstate Commerce Commission Hear- ings 1387 Labor and Its Grievances 36 Labor and the American Legion 435 Labor and the Farmers in Politics 458 Labor Day 1951 Labor Enters the Political Arena 149 Labor in Politics. ... 425, 695, 1063, 1166, 1382 Labor, National Weekly 977, 1381 Labor Provisions of the Railroad Bill. 312, 1391 Labor Questions, Court Decisions On... 719 Labor’s Political Banner Unfurled 428 Labor’s Political Campaign 150 Labor's Protest Against a Rampant Tragedy 707 Labor's Slogan 824, 948 Labor, The Problems of 579 Mail, Handling U. S 427 Manion. E. J., President. .436, 558, 702, 830, 940, 977, 1282, 1283. 1286 New Year Approaches 1377 New York, Chicago & SL Louis Railroad vs. Telegraphers H70 Old-Time Member Honored 945. Open Shop, The 1163, 1284 Pennsylvania Lines East, Suffrage Exer- cised On 33 Perham. H. B., Past President 1162 Philadelphia & Reading Railroad vs. Telegraphers 1168, 1171 Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad vs. Telegraphers Planks Adopted by the United States Chamber of Commerce 1065 Plumb Plan. The ,...20, 977 Political Action in Nebraska 699 Political Arena, Labor Enters the 149 Digitized by C-ooQle

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I NDEX — Continued Political Banner Unfurled, Labor’s 428 Political Campaign. Labor’s 150 Political Policy. Non-Partisan 1285 Political Situation, The 830 Politics, Labor and the Farmers in 458 Politics, Labor in... 425, 695, 1063. 1166, 1382 President’s Industrial Conference, The... 11 Public Opinion, Value of 1166 Questionnaire. A (The Problems of Cap- ital and Labor) 579 Railroad Administration, United States. Addendum No. 2 159 Railroad Administration, United States, General Ordef No. 65 , 18 Railroad Administration, United States, Interpretation No. 9 160 Railroad Administration, United States, Railway Board of Adjustment No. 3 1168, 1289, 1292, 1384 Railroad Bill. Labor Provisions of... 312, 1391 Railroad Labor Bill. The 20 Railroad Labor Board, United States, Daily and Monthly Wage Rates 1284 Railroad L^bor Board. United States, Decision 2 (Dockets 1, 2 and 3).. 816, 1293. 1390 Railroad Labor Board, Wage Increase Presented to 557 Rawlins. C. B., Death of 1161. 1162, 1281, 1377 Resolution Adopted by Board of Di- rectors 1281 Resolution Adopted by The American Federation of Labor 830 Resolution Adopted by the Standard Recognized Railroad Organizations.. 308 Rutland Railroad vs. Telegraphers. 1290, 1291 St. Louis-San Francisco Railroad vs. Telegraphers 1289 Short Line Wages, Hearings on 1282 Sims, Hon. Thetus W., Speech of 27 Soldiers and Sailors’ League 457 Steel Company’s Policy. Interchurch Committee Assails 937 Strikes. Illegal Railroad, Condemnation of ^30 Subordinate Officials 702 Suffrage Exercised on the Pennsylvania Lines East 33 Toledo. Peoria & Western Railroad vs. Telegraphers 1386 Transportation Act 1391 Union Label, The 1383 Union, Our, Not the Union 1380 Wage Movement... 281, 437, 557, 815, 940, 1282, 1283 BRIEFS. Briefs ....46, 162, 319, 459, 592, 721, 833, 980, 1072, 1174, 1295, 1402 FACETIOUS. Facetious 55, 169, 469, 731, 840, 987, 1080, 1183, 1306, 1420 FRATERNAL, Fraternal ..82, 194, 350, 488, 616, 748. 859, 997, 1094, 1200, 1313, 1428 PHOTOS. Atlanta & West Point and Western Railway of Alabama General Com- mittee 280 Board of Directors 692, 1278 Curry, N. B 349 Delegates to American Federation of I^abor Convention.^ 814 Duluth, Missabe & Northern Railway General Committee la Erie Railroad General Committee 1060 Fort Worth & Denver City and Wichita Valley Railroad General Committee.. 148 Henry, James 1398 Poindexter. David Charles 1426 Pioneers. A Few of Our 1396, 1398 Quebec Central Railway General Com- mittee 424 Rawlins, Charles Bernard 1160 Solitude 936 Springtime 556 Wright, CV A 724 GRAND DIVISION. Grand Division 136, 279, 417, 554, 679, 813, 924. 1050, 1160, 1265, 1368, 1491 LADIES* AUXILIARY. Ladies* Auxiliary. ... 52. 324. 466, 597, 728. 837. 985, 1077, 1181, 1303, 1417. OUR CORRESPONDENTS. Our Correspondents 57. 171, 326. 471, 600, 733. 842. 989. 1081. 1185. 1308, 1422 PERSONAL MENTION. Personal Mention .. .49. 165, 320. 462, 594, 725. 834, 982, 1074, 1178, 1300. 1414 POETICAL.. Poetical ...54. 16S, 468. 599. 730. 839, 9S6. 1079, 1182. 1305, 1418 Digitized by Google

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JAN. 2* 1S20 V. OfiHAtt'L-"' Vol. XXXVII JANUARY, 1920 No. 1 Hearing Before the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions THE hearing which had been petitioned for by President E. J. Manion before the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions was granted December 4th for the purpose of presenting the request of the president for increased rates of pay. Appreciating the important fact that each member of the Order is intensely interested in this hearing, practically the entire transcript story is herewith reproduced for the infor- mation of the membership. Digitized by VjOOQle

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2 The Railroad Telegrapher. United States Railroad Administration Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions. Hearing Room No. 801, Southern Railway Building. Washington, D. C. The Board met, pursuant to adjourn- ment, at 2 o’clock p. m. Present: Messrs. A. O. Wharton (chairman), J. J. Dermody, G. H. Sines, C. E. Lindsay and F. F. Gaines. The Chairman: The hearings today, gentlemen, are brought about as the re- sult of a. request received from the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, and as Chair- man of the Board 1 desire to submit the following statement: These hearings are being conducted pursuant to instructions contained in a letter received from the Director Gen- eral dated November 10, 1919, with which he transmitted to this Board a proposi- tion submitted by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers: In order that the record may be com- plete I desire to read the letter, which is as follows: “I enclose herewith letter from the President of the Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers, requesting a hearing before your Board in regard to a proposition which they have prepared covering: “1. Request for standardization of sev- eral rules governing working conditions. “2. Readjustment of wages through the process of equalization. "3. General increase in wages to meet the present costs of living and to re- establish pre-war standards. “In accordance with letter of August 26, 1919, it will be proper for your Board to grant a hearing as to items 1 and 2, submitting your report and recommenda- tions in the premises; but item 3 will have to be handled in accordance with policy outlined by the President con- cerning changes in pay due to the in- creased cost of living.” With respect to Item No. 1, which is a Thursday, December 4, 1919. request for standardization of rules gov- erning working conditions, the Board has deemed it advisable to follow the usual procedure and has therefore organized a joint conference committee consisting of seven representatives of the Regional Di- rectors and seven representatives of the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, who are now engaged upon the work of formulat- ing a set of standard rules which will be submitted to this Board for its considera- tion and recommendation to the Director General. Item No. 3, which deals with general increases of wages to meet the present cost of living and to re-establish pre-war standards, having been eliminated by the provisions of the Director General's let- ter to this Board dated August 26th, con- fines these hearings to Item No. 2, which involves readjustments of wages through the process of equalization. From an examination of the proposi- tion submitted by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, it appears that the repre- sentatives of the employes seek a re- adjustment of wages on the ground that employes performing similar service are receiving on some roads higher rates of pay than on other roads, and in this con- nection it seems proper to read into the record a letter received from the Direc- tor General under date of October 31st, which deals with a request made by em- ployes engaged as telegraphers on the Missouri Pacific Railroad, wherein request was made for a revision of rates of pay in order to equalize their rates with the rates paid by other companies to em- ployes performing similar service. “Referring to your letter of October 9th, Docket 597, relative to revision of rates of pay of telegraphers on the Mis- souri Pacific Railroad: “The Missouri Pacific situation is aim* Digitized by Google

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The Bailroad Telegrapher. 3 Oar to that of a great many railroads throughout the United States on January 1, 1918. Numerous negotiations were in progress and many of them had been practically completed, but upon the pub- lication of General Order No. 5 in Jan- uary, 1918, announcing the appointment of the Railroad Wage Commission to consider the compensation of persons in the railroad service, the negotiations were terminated. In a few cases, such as the Frisco line, the negotiations having been completed, were signed up in January, 1918. There are still other cases where it was not understood that General Order No. 5 forbade completing negotiations, and schedules were signed as late as February 21, 1918, the date of General Order No. 8. “Supplement No. 13, Article VIII, Sec- tion (b), deals with the adjustment of inequalities in individual cases. Article IV, Supplement No. 13, makes special provision for supervisory agents and agents at small non-telegraph stations. Otherwise there are no provisions for adjustments of inequalities, even on in- dividual railroads. “In the light of the methods pursued in the past in negotiating telegraphers’ schedules, this request does not appear to involve the principle set forth in the letter of the Director General dated Au- gust 26, 1919, and it is not understood that the claims have been presented on that basis. “The telegraphers on the Missouri Pa- cific have received the same increases as the Frisco and other lines; the contro- versy is as to the adequacy of the basic rates on January 1, 1918. “F6r these reasons the Director Gen- eral has decided that unless the telegra- phers are able to show the Wage Board that there has been an inequality in the increases granted telegraphers as com- pared with those granted other employes, no increase could be made in the case in question.” - addition to the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, the Order of Railroad Sta- tion Agents and the American Associa- tion of Railroad Ticket Agents, who as- sume to represent certain employes com- ing under the provisions of Supplement No. 13, have filed a request to be heard, they have also been notified to appear at these hearings and under Article No. 7 of General Order No. 27, other employes coming under the provisions of this sup- plement or their representatives, upon request, may also appear. Confining itself to the policy of the Administration as defined by the Direc- tor General in his letter to this Board dated August 26th as regards requests for general increases based upon the high cost of living; and the decision of the Administration on the question of equali- zation of wages as between railroads as expressed in the Director General's let- ter to this Board under date of October 31, 1919, the Board is ready to proceed with the hearing. Mr. Manion, as these hearings were primarily opened at the request of your organization we will now call upon you as the representative of the Order of Railroad Telegraphers to present such facts in line with the Instructions which this Board has received from the Director General as you see fit Mr. Manion: The wage schedules now existent on the several railroads operat- ing under Government control, as shown in our submission now before you, con- tain one hundred and eighty-two differ- ent rates of pay, which, it must be con- ceded creates and maintains too many differentials among the classes of em- ployes coming within the scope of Sup- plement 13 to General Order 27. We have endeavored as far as possible to minimize the number of differentials as evidenced in our memorandum showing revised rates requested. This, we believe, is in line with the policy of the Central Railroad Administration. Such differ- entials as are proposed in our request are considered necessary in order to Digitized by Google

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4 The Bailroad Telegrapher. maintain practically the same relation- ship between certain classes and between positions respecting rates of pay, as ob- tain as regard their relative work and re- sponsibilities. In submitting our proposition for read- justment and minimization of present rates of pay and the number of units compiising same, we do so in accordance with the instructions contained in a let- ter of the Director General to your hon- orable Board under date of August 26, 1919, and transmitted to us by your chaiiman. We hold that the changes requested in our submission do not constitute ade- quate remuneration for our constituents and we must have further consideration from the Central Railroad Administration to the extent at least of a horizontal in- crease in wages of 17 cents per hour applied to the proposed rates in our memorandum of readjustment of rates. The duties and responsibilities devolving upon those whom we represent are com- parable with those of any other class or classes of skilled employes in the service of the railroads, which fact must be rec- ognized by the Central Railroad Admin- istration in its application of increases in pay to employes. Our present average rate of pay is $.5575 per hour and the readjhstment re- quested raises this to $.6418 per hour, an increase in the average rate of $.0843 per hour. This proposed readjustment does not contemplate a final disposition of the wage matter but is intended solely to establish a more comprehensive basis than now exists upon which to apply a uniform hourly increase of 17 cents per hour after the proposed readjustment has been effected. That was the basis upon which we presented our request here for readjust- ment to the Board on the grounds that the Director General’s letter under date of August 26, which reads: “The President has also made it clear, however, that the Railroad Administration is not precluded from giving prompt and careful consideration to any claims that may be made by the various classes of employes for readjustment believed to be proper to secure impartial treatment for all railroad employes.’* We maintain that our proposition con- templates a more equitable wage, with consideration to the relation existing as to the responsibilities of the employes whom we represent. We have not gone outside of our own field in order to find these differences in rates of pay as be- tween the railroads and we have in com- piling this proposition maintained an av- erage rate of pay for the entire country | lower than now exists on the Southern Pacific Railroad, and we feel that we are perfectly within the meaning of the letter of the Director General when we do this. The Chairman: I do not think, if you are expecting that I should give an an- swer to that, that it would be a proper question for me to decide at this time. We are not objecting to your p esenting such evidence as you desire to submit to justify the claim you have advanced, and that I believe would be in accord- ance with the provisions of the letter written to the Board in reply to the let- ter we sent him in connection with the request that you have submitted. Mr. Manion: I see. Our request for the readjustment in the schedule rates of pay for the employes classified in Sup-' plement No. 13 to General Order No. 27 shows that the average hourly rate of pay now in effect on the Southern Pacific Railroad System, namely: 64.19 cents per hour should be used as the basis in the readjustment of the hourly rates of pay of employes on railroads under Federal control, and that the following method be used, which, when applied will not ex- ceed the average hourly rate now paid on the Pacific System of the Southern Pa- cific Railroad. * * * Under the caption of Agents we show 5,421 positions with 173 rates now in ef- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 5 feet which we seek to reduce to twenty- four rates. Agents Telegraphers — do you want me to read that all, Mr. Wharton. The Chairman: You can use your own judgment about it. We have not the in- fo. mation before us. Mr. Manion: Then I do not think it is neeessary but I would like to give you this. Under Agents and Telegraphers there are 15,666 positions and 135 differ- ent rates of pay which we seek to reduce to eleven rates. Under Agent Telephoners there are 2,718 positions with 101 rates of pay which we seek to reduce to eleven rates. In the General Office and Relay there are 2,239 positions which include the managers, wire chiefs, telegraphers and telephoners, the four different classes shown under the caption of General Office and Relay, and there are 121 rates of pay in effect now and we seek to reduce that to nine. Under the caption of Division or Su- perintendents' Offices there are 1,468 po- sitions, 91 rates of pay in effect now which we reduce to seven. The Yard and Terminals 3,197 posi- tions with 83 different rates of pay in efTect reduced to seven. Telegraphers 17,785 positions, with 94 rates of pay in effect that we reduce to eight. Telephoners 2.229 receiving 59 different rates of pay reduced to eight. 9,238 Towermen, 98 rates of pay, re- duced to eight. 4,390 Block Operators with 59 rates of pay reduced to eight. 149 Staffmen with 15 rates of pay which we reduce to eight 49 Printers with 10 rates of pay re- duced to 8. Tower and Train Directors 187 with 47 different rates of pay reduced to seven. Mr. Lindsay: I assume, Mr. Manion, that some of the rates in the different groups are alike. Mr. Manion: Ob, yes. Mr. Lindsay: What is the total num- ber of new rates established? Mr. Manion: 24 now. There are 182 now, and we reduced that to 24. Mr. Gaines: Mr. Manion, I would like to ask right here now why, ih view of the hearing of last year in which you did not wish to disturb the existing status of things, you now want to turn around and standardize. What has caused that change of feeling? Mr. Manion: Probably a change of pol- icy in the organization. Mr. Gaines. It was a fact that in the previous hearing a request was made that there should be no change in the differ- entials then existing? Mr. Manion: I do not know that, Mr. Gaines. Mr. Gaines: That Is the fact accord- ing to my recollection, unless I am wrong. Mr. Dermody: Would not the minimum of 60 cents asked at the last hearing standardize many rates in your present tabulation? Mr. Manion: It would cover 51,281 of the 64,736 positions shown In our tabu- lation. Mr. Gaines: And that is, If the mini- mum you have requested had been granted it would have wiped out these differentials? Mr. Manion: Yes, sir. Mr. Gaines: However, that does not quite satisfy me as to why last year you requested the differentials to be not dis- turbed Mr. Manion: Well, Mr. Gaines, we have not asked that all differentials be wiped out. You will note from our sub- mission that we still maintain differen- tials that make a little higher rate for the agents than we do for the teleg- rapher or telephones We try to establish him in a little bit higher class than any of the others as a class. ♦ * • Mr. Manion: Now, we have summar- ized this as follows: This is a compara- tive table showing employes covered by Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27 by classes between certain hourly rates. The Chairman: Call that Exhibit A. The statement referred to is as fol lows: Digitized by v Google

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6 The Railroad Telegrapher. COMPARATIVE TABLE SHOWING EMPLOYES COVERED BY SUPPLEMENT No. 13 TO GENERAL ORDER No. 27 BY CLASSES BETWEEN CERTAIN HOURLY RATES. Total Total .4800 .5500 less .6000 .6500 less to to than to to than .6475 .6975 .6000 .6476 .7176 .7200 Agents 2,276 857 3,143 777 764 4,674 Agent Telegraphers 9,809 3,664 13,373 1,605 690 16,468 Agent Telephoners 1,697 691 2,388 196 96 2,678 Gen. Office Relay 99 216 314 605 1,047 1,966 Div. or Supt. Off 57 267 324 643 419 1,385 Yard and Terminals 696 1,433 2,129 893 169 3,181 Telegraphers 11,086 4,910 15,996 1,370 412 17,778 Telephoners 1,683 500 2,183 27 12 2,222 Block Operators 2,863 1,333 4,196 141 53 4,390 Staffmen 108 36 144 5 ... 149 Towdr and Train Directors ... 7 13 20 14 31 65 Towermen 4,881 2,684 7,665 1,162 474 »,191 Printers 45 1 46 2 ... 48 Total 35,307 16,514 51,821 7,329 4,046 63,196 .7200 Average and hourly over Total rates Agents 747 5,421 .5963 Agent Telegraphers 198 15,666 .5468 Agent Telephoners 40 2,718 . 5432 General Office Relay 273 2,239 .6600 Div. or Supt/s Office 82 1,468 .6363 Yard and Terminals 16 3,197 .5817 Telegraphers 7 17,785 .6422 Telephoners 7 2,229 . 5327 Block Operators 4,390 .5453 Staffmen 149 .6308 Tower and Train Directors 122 187 .7454 Towermen . 47 9,238 .5505 Printers 1 49 .4979 Total 1,540 64,736 .6575 Compiled in the office of E. J. Manion, President, The Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers, St. Louis, Mo., November 1, 1919. * * * Mr. Manion: 1 might make a state- tendents' offices, 696 yard and terminals, ment that in compiling these figures we 11,086 telegraphers, 1,683 telephoners, secured the information from our several 2,863 operators, 108 staffmen, 7 tower general chairmen and succeeded in se- and train directors, 4,881 towermen and curing information covering 64,736 po- 45 printers, or a total of 35,307 coming in sitions and including practically all the less than 55 cents, or a little better than large railroads except the Santa Fe and 50 per cent of the number we represent, also a large number of the sfnaller rail- and then the table goes on to show the roads, so this is based on 64,736 posi- others. tions out of a possible total of 85,000, I It also shows that the average rate of would say, in round figures. pay for all the employes shown in this This table shows the number in each submission, 64,736 such, is 55.76 cents per class coming within a certain rate. For hour. instance, from 48 cents to 54.75 cents we Mr. Lindsay: Is that the simple aver- find some 2,276 agents. 9.809 agent teleg- age or the weighted average? raphers, 1,697 agent telephoners, 99 gen- Mr. Manion. You will have to explain, eral office relay, 57 division or superin- Mr. Lindsay. ' Digitized by Google

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The Kailboad Telegraph ee. 7 Mr. Lindsay: Did you get that by sim- ply adding hourly rates together and di- riding by the number of groups of em- ployes, or did you multiply out the num- ber of employes at each given rate and tben divide by the number of employers? Hr. Manion: We multiplied out Hr. Dermody: lAnd this is a weighted average? Hr. Manion: This I presume Is a weighted average. I have to confess this is a new one on me. Hr. Lindsay: .We have been using it a great deal in these hearings. Mr. Manion: I do not want to parade my ignorance, but I have to tell the troth. Mr. Lindsay: I did not ask the ques- tion for that purpose. Mr. Manion: This is not necessary for me to read — these tables — as I am sure it would only burden the record by so doing. The Chairman: The table will be re- produced in the record, Mr. Manion, any- how. Mr. Manion: That is the sum total of our request. Mr. Lindsay: There is one further question about this table. You show, for instance, in tower and train directors 7 men between 48 cents and 54.76 cents per hour. You took the actual rate that each of those seven received in getting the weighted average, or did you assume one or the other of the limits? Mr. Manion: We took the actual rate. Mr. Lindsay: There might have been one at 48 cents and one at 49 cents and one at 50 cents and so on up to 54.75 cents. Mr. Manion: Yes, sir. Mr. Lindsay. And you took each one? Mr. Manion: Took each one. The Chairman: I understand, Mr. Man- ion, in the last column you have the av- erage hourly rates by classes. I was just wondering in compiling this information and taking the statement you have just previously made as to the methods you used in arriving at these averages if it woqld be asking too much if we asked you to furnish us the average for each class in each of the classified groups that you have. Take column one, for instance, in the 48 to the 54.75 cents and show op- posite agents of whom you- report under this 2276, and give the average rate for agents in that class? Mr. Manion: You can easily do that, I think. Mr. Mohler: 1 should judge you could readily have those figures. I have the working sheets. Mr. Manion: I will ask Mr. Mohler to do that The Chairman: That can be done later. It need not be done at the present time. Mr. Manion: You want us to make a statement and file it? The Chairman: Yes, sir; it would sim- plify our work possibly in arriving at any conclusions we might want to arrive at in that manner. Mr. Gaines: Mr. Manion, in the last analysis does not your request prao> tically represent a request for increased wages? You may call it equalization as amongst your men and all that, but does it not represent increased wages? Mr. Manion: It would doubtless result in some increases, yes. In order to bring about the unification of rates we would naturally tend to go high to get it, but at the same time keeping within the av- erage rate of pay as obtained upon one of our railroads. Mr. Gaines: Yes; but upon one rail- road only, is it not? That is what you are basing this on, is it not? Mr. Manion: No; there are other rail- roads at a higher average rate than these here. We just struck that railroad if you refer to this sheet you will see, for in- stance, the Bessemer & Lake Brie. The Bessemer & Lake Erie as a railroad is probably the only one; and there are some terminals, of course, where the average rate is higher, and then we have other railroads that are almost up to that. The Boston & Maine 61.95. But we naturally take the highest rate of the largest railroad. Mr. Gaines: And on the basis of a few high railroads you are asking for an equalization on that basis? Digitized by Google

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8 Thb Railroad Telegrapher. Mr. Manion: We are using that as the high basis and we are asking that the rates all be — the number of rates of pay be minimized, reduced from 182 to 24, and in doing this it must be conceded that it is a very difficult thing to do, and still not injure anybody, and so in order to establish what we believe is a proper basis for our rates of pay and upon which we can figure in the future we proceeded to reduce the number, and in order not to hurt anybody we naturally used one of the high rates as our basis for com- putation. Mr. Gaines: Have you made any esti- mate in any way whatever as to what it would mean in additional expense to the Railroad Administration? Mr. Manion: Yes, sir. Mr. Gaines: How much per year? Mr. Manion: It will amount to about 8.43 cents per hour per man. Mr. Gaines: And that multiplied out by the number of men is how much money per year? Mr. Manion: 113,350,740.64. This gives you a pretty clear outline of the increases by reason of the adoption of our proposition (referring to statement). Mr. Wharton has a copy and I assume we can have copies made. The Chairman: Yes; we can have some copies made from that. Mr. Lindsay: I assume, Mr. Manion, that where the rates of pay are within the limits that you have assumed the po- sitions, duties and responsibilities are similar? » Mr. Manion: We could not undertake to classify the positions, Mr. Lindsay, be- cause you will recognize what a difficult problem that would be, and it would have to be done between the committees and tbe local management of each railroad, because there are so many positions and so many different classifications at the present time that it would probably take months to work that up, and we did not have sufficient time to do it and present our case here before the change was made from Government control to private control which we all seem to contem- plate. The Chairman: Unless I have made a mistake in my figures the increase of 6.43 cents per hour which you estimate would be the amount necessary to bring about the equalization requested, would repre- sent on 25% eight-hour days or 204 hours a month basis an average Increase of $17.19 per month per man over pres- ent rates. My understanding of the let- ter of the Director General would lead me to doubt as to the propriety of this Board handling a question on that basis. There could be no claim of inequality, a? I un- derstand your presentation, as between the telegraphers as a class and any other class of railroad employes. Mr. Manion: We did not make our presentation on that basis. The Chairman: Your claim of inequal- ity is based upon the analagous service . or similar service of the men in the classes of employes, embraced in Sup- plement No. 13? Mr. Manion: Practically, as I explained to Mr. Lindsay, it was almost impossible for us to attempt to classify all of the positions with respect to their work and responsibility, but using the Southern Pa- cific, for instance, on the theory that tbe rates of pay for the Southern Pacific would go along about the same as on other railroads as applied at least to the several classes, but a little bit higher, and we assumed that this woufc) be the class practically within itself, .as outlined here in the several classes, and still bring it along comparatively the same as the Southern Pacific. Or, in other words, when this is adopted it would mean that these men in the several' classes would receive practically the same rates of pay as the Southern Pacific is receiving now in the respective classes. Mr. Sines: It resolves itself, then, not into a request for pay adjustment of in- equalities as between your class and any other classes? Mr. Manion: No, sir. Mr. Sines: Then that simply resolves itself into a request for an adjustment of rates of pay as between the employes Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 9 you are representing on one railroad and those on other railroads? Mr. Manion: Yes, sir. Mr. Sines: All other railroads as com- pared with one? Mr. Manion:. Yes, sir. Mr. Sines: Then it is not a request for an adjustment for inequalities in the in- creases as between the men you repre- sent in your own class? Mr. Manion: No, sir; it is not, be- cause they all received practically the same increase. Mr. Sines: In connection with that, Mr. Manion, the Director General’s let- ter of August 26th and his letter to this Board on the Missouri Pacific case — I fan to see any difference — the Missouri Pacific case was a request to equalize the rates of pay of the Missouri Pacific with the Frisco, and in that particular case the Director General in his letter to us of October 31st, decided that unless the telegraphers’ are able to show the Wage Board that there has been an in- equality in the increases granted teleg- raphers as compared with those granted other employes, no increases could be made in the case in question as long as the present policy of the Administration continues. Therefore, from my point of Hew, I am unable to grasp the problem in any other way except that the letter of August 26th and the letter as to the Missouri Pacific, removed from the juris- diction of this Board the question of considerating your request as you have placed it I do not see where we have any authority, in view of the two de- cisions, no matter what we might per- sonally feel or think, to make a recom- mendation on it. Mr. Gaines: I entirely agree with Mr. Sines; I think in this particular instance we are without jurisdiction as a Board. Mr. Dermody: Mr. Manion, did your proposition seek to bring about a more equitable rate or a more nearly uniform rate for men performing identically the same class of service? Mr. Manion: Yes; a more uniform rate for men performing the same class of service. Mr. Dermody: Is there a wide range of differentials for employes now per- forming the same class and character of service? Mr. Manion: There is. Mr. Dermody: And how are a great many of those differentials brought about? Mr. Manion: Well, in the past it has been customary to receive a lump sum from the railroad, and the committees and officers of the railroad would ’dis- tribute this money as far as it would go. We were never able to secure a sum suffitient to close out the differentials, and in order to meet the economic condi- tions at a time when we requested an in- crease in wages, we had to use the money and distribute it as equitably as possible to everybody concerned, and therefore were unable to close out these differen- tials. Mr. Gaines: But in doing that you practically considered each particular railroad as a job and figured out how much they ought to get out of that lump? Mr. Manion: We did that, Mr. Gaines, but we never got enough to give them what they ought to get, so we had to give them what we could. Mr. Sines: Have you any information, Mr. Manion, as to how many differentials were eliminated by the application of the 48 Gents an hour minimum? Mr. Manion: I have not the informa- tion on that, Mr. Sines. Digitized by Google

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10 The Railroad Telegrapher. Mr. Dennody: Mr. Manion, when the Government assumed control of the roads was there any great number of negotiations then in progress? Mr. Manion: There were a large num- ber in progress at the time. Mr. Lindsay: Involving approximately how many employes? Mr. Manion: It is my understanding there were 14 of the larger railroads, at least, that were in mediation or pro- cess of negotiation and averaging them, say, 1,500 to the road. Probably that would be about the best we could do, to strike an average of about 1,500 to the road. Mr. Dermody: I think the record shows during the former hearing that there were about 34, including mediation and ar- bitration. Mr. Manion: Yes; probably there were. There were 14 of the larger roads that 1 knew of, and at that particular time I was not chief executive of the organization, and I am just giving you the information that 1 have. Mr. Dermody: And the roads that closed their negotiations with the Teleg- raphers through which they received an increase in pay took a higher rate than the unfinished negotiations? Mr. Manion: They did. Mr. Dermody: That would create a differential of about how much? Mr. Manion: Well, this submission shows the differentials, and I would say approximately six or seven cents an hour. Mr. Dermody: Then had your proposi- tion of last year of 60 cents minimum been conceded it would have practically wiped out all those inequalities, would it not? Mr. Manion: It would. Mr. Gaines: In connection with that, Mr. Manion, can you furnish the Board later the number of positions that were affected by the 48 cents minimum; that is, that were brought up to a 48-cent minimum? The Chairman: That is right here. Mr. Manion: We have got that here in that submission. Mr. Lindsay: Mr. Manion, if I under- stand your proposition there might be a telegrapher • in the 48-cent-an-hour class now, and there might be another teleg- rapher in the 65-cent class, both perform- ing identically the same duties? Mr. Manion: Yes, sir. Mr. Lindsay: The higher rated man perhaps being located in New York City and the other man in the Mississippi Val- ley somewhere. Your proposition would add to the 48-cent man about 12 cents and to the 65-cent man ten cents per hour and not equalize t£eir rates of pay at all but further increase the spread. Mr. Manion: That might be in some Instances; yes, sir. You will appreciate, Mr. Lindsay, it is difficult to reduce these rates without creating some inequalities. The Chairman: Are there any other questions the members of the Board de- sire to ask? Mr. Dermody: Mr. Manion, is this cal- culated on 208 hours per month? Mr. Manion: 204. Mr. Dermody : That is all. The Chairman: You have nothing further that you desire to present at this time, Mr. Manion? Mr. Manion: No, sir. The Chairman: All right. Are there any other members of your organization that you desire to have appear before the Board? Mr. Manion: No, sir. (This completed the hearing.) Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 11 The President’s Industrial Conference The first industrial conference selected by President Wilson having failed to reach an agreement on the important questions concerning labor and Its rights, dw to the attitude of E. H. Gary and a few other bourbons representing the employers, the President appointed another committee to study the industrial situa- tion and to make recommendations for the adjustment of industrial disputes. This committee, after several weeks of labor, has submitted a preliminary statement, with the request that certain tentative proposals be given consideration and careful study by those interested in the industrial situation. * The editor has endeavored to analyze the different proposals in an unbiased tanner, and, while the introductory remarks made by the committee state that not only the organization of employers, but also those of the employes must be protected, a fails to mention labor organizations in such manner that will give democratic protection tp these organizations and its members, and this is absolutely necessary in the steel and a few other Industries. There also seems to be too much “must*' in the entire proposition and a lack of freedom for the worker who has the American concept of the word “freedom/1 It would also seem that this conference should take heed of the welfare and housing conditions of the employes of industry. Some of the proposals are, no doubt, based upon a sense of equity and justice to both parties. The question cf railroad employes and the manner in which to handle the disputes of these workers has not been included in this tentative prescription. It will be Interesting to note the final proposal for the handling of disputes for these and other public utility employes, such as the telegraphs, telephones, street railroads, etc. The report of the conference follows: PRELIMINARY STATEMENT OF INDUSTRIAL CONFERENCE. I. INTRODUCTION. The Industrial Conference, convened by the President in Washington on Decem- ber 1, issues this statement in the desire that certain tentative proposals be given considerate study by interested individuals and organizations throughout the country. It will reassemble on January 12 and will then carefully consider any constructive criticisms that may be submitted to it. The Conference does not deem it useful at this time to enter upon a discussion of the causes of industrial unrest. It believes rather that Its most important immediate contribution is the suggestion of practical measures which will serve to avert or postpone industrial conflicts. In confining itself to the proposal of machinery for the adjustment of disputes, tbe Conference is far from wishing to exaggerate the importance of the mechanical as contrasted with the human elements in the situation. Our modern industrial organization, if It is not to become a failure, must yield to the individual a larger satisfaction with life. It makes possible a greater production of material things, fiat we have grown so accustomed to its complexity that we are in danger of forgetting that men are today more dependent on each other than ever before. The spirit of human fellowship and responsibility was easier to maintain when two or three worked side by side and saw the completed product pass from their hands, let their co-operation was actually less necessary because each by himself was more nearly capable, if circumstances demanded, to meet the needs of life. Today »o have a complex interweaving of vital interests. But we have as yet failed to Digitized by VjOOQle

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12 The Railroad Telegrapher. / adjust our human relations to the facts of our economic interdependence. The process toward adjustment, though slow, nevertheless goes on. The right relation- ship between employer and employe in large industries can be promoted only by the deliberate organization of that relationship. Not only must the theory that, labor is a commodity be abandoned but the concept df leadership must be substituted for that of mastership. New machinery of democratic representation may be erected to suit the conditions of present industry and restore a measure of personal contact and a sense of responsibility between' employer and employe. The more recent development of such machinery with the co-operation of organized labor is a hopeful sign. But back of any machinery must be the power which moves it. Human fellow- ship in industry may be either an empty phrase or a living fact. There is no magic formula. It can be a fact only if there is continuous and sincere effort for mutual understanding and an unfailing recognition that there is a community of interest between employer and employe. Pending the growth of better relationships between employers and employes, the practical approach to the problem is to devise a method of preventing or retarding conflicts by providing machinery for the adjustment of differences. The Conference believes that it is possible to set up a more effective series of tribunals for the adjustment of disputes than at present exists. To be successful, such tribunals must be so organized as to operate promptly as well as impartially. There must be full participation by employers and employes. There must be representation of the public to safeguard the public interest. The machinery should not be used to promote unfairly the interests of organizations, either of labor or of capital. The plain fact is that the public has long been uneasy about the power of great employers; it is becoming uneasy about the power of great labor organizations. The community must be assured against domination by either. On the other hand, there must be equal assurance that such machinery will not be used to discriminate against organ- izations of employes or of employers. Both should be protected. The right of asso- ciation on either side should not be affected or denied as a result of the erection of such tribunals. The plan which follows does not propose to do away with the ultimate right to strike, to discharge, or to maintain the closed or the open shop. It is designed to bring about a frank meeting of the interested parties and cool and calm considera- tion of the questions involved, in association with other persons familiar with the industry. The plan is national in scope and operation, yet it is decentralized. It is different from anything in operation elsewhere. It is based upon American experience and is designed to meet American conditions. To facilitate discussion, the plan sub- mitted, while entirely tentative, is expressed in positive form and made definite as to most details. II. PLAN FOR BOARDS OF INQUIRY AND ADJUSTMENT. 1. National Tribunal and Regional Boards. There shall be established a National Industrial Tribunal, and Regional Boards of Inquiry and Adjustment. 2. National Industrial Tribunal. The National Industrial Tribunal shall have its headquarters In Washington, and shall be composed of nine members chosen by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Three shall represent the employers of the country and shall bo appointed upon nomination of the Secretary of Commerce. Three shall represent employes and shall be appointed upon nomination of the Secretary of Labor. Three Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 13 shall be representatives of the public interest. Not more than five of the members shall be of the same political party. The tribunal shall be, in general, a board of appeal. Its determinations on dis- putes coming to it upon an appeal shall be by unanimous vote. In case it Is unable to reach a determination, it shall make and publish majority an^ minority reports which shall be matters, of public record. 3. Industrial Regions. The United States shall be divided into a specified number of industrial regions. The Conference suggests 12 regions with boundaries similar to those established under the Federal Reserve system, with such modifications as the industrial situation may make desirable. 4. Regional Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen. In each region the President shall appoint a regional chairman. He shall be a representative of the public interest, shall be appointed for a term of three years and be eligible for reappointment. Whenever in any industrial region, because of the multiplicity of disputes, prompt action by the Regional Board is impossible, or where the situation makes it desirable, the National Industrial Tribunal may in its discretion choose one or more vice-chairmen and provide for the establishment under their chairmanship of addi- tional regional boards. 5. Panels of Employers and Employes For Regional Boards. Panels of employers and employes for each region shall be prepared by the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Labor, respectively, after conference with the employers and employes, respectively, of the regions. The panels shall be approved by the President. At least 20 days before their submission to the President provisional lists for the panels in each region shall be published in such region. The panels of employers shall be classified by industries; the panels of employes shall be classified by industries and subclassifled by crafts. The names of employers and employes selected shall be at first entered on their respective panels in an order determined by lot. The selection from the panels for service upon the Regional Boards shall be made in rotation by the regional chairman; after service the name of the one so chosen shall be transferred to the foot of his panel. 6. Regional Boards of Adjustment. Whenever a dispute arises In a plant or group of plants which is not settled by tgreement of the parties or by existing machinery, the chairman may on his motion, tmless disapproved by the National Industrial Tribunal, and shall at the request of the Secretary of Commerce or the Secretary of Labor or the National Industrial Tribunal, request each side concerned in such dispute to submit it for adjustment to a Regional Board of Adjustment. To this end each side shall, if willing to make such submission, select within not less than two nor more than seven days, at the discretion of the chairman, a representative. Such selection shall be made in accordance with the rules and regulations to be laid down by the National Industrial Tribunal for the purpose of insuring free and prompt choice of the representatives. When both sides shall have selected their representatives the chairman shall take from the top of the panels for the industry concerned, or in the case of employes for the craft or crafts concerned, names of employers and employes, respectively. The representatives selected by the two sides shall be entitled to a specified number Digitized by Googk

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14 The Railroad Telegrapher. of peremptory challenges of the names so taken from their respective panels. When two unchallenged names of employers and employes shall have been selected in this manner, they, with the chairman and the representatives selected by the two sides shall constitute a Regional Board of Adjustment. The appointment of representatives of both sides shall constitute' an agreement to submit the issue for adjustment and further shall constitute an agreement by both sides that they will continue, or re-establish and continue, the status that existed at the time the dispute arose. The Board of Adjustment so constituted shall proceed at once to hear the two sides for the purpose of reaching a determination. Such determination must be by unanimous vote. In case the board is unable to reach a determination the question shall, unless referred to an umpire, as provided in Section 9, pass upon appeal to the National Industrial Tribunal. 7. Regional Boards of Inquiry. If either side to the dispute fails, within the period fixed by the chairman, to select its representative, the chairman shall proceed to organize a Regional Board of Inquiry. Such Regional Board of Inquiry shall consist of the regional chairman, two employers selected in the manner specified from the employ ers' panel, and two employes selected in like manner from the employes’ panel and of the representative of either side that may have selected a representative and agreed to submit the dispute to the board. If neither side shall select a representative within the time fixed by the chairman, the Board of Inquiry shall consist of the chairman and the four panel members only. Upon the selection of a representative, within the specified time, the side con- cerned shall be entitled to the specified number of peremptory challenges as provided above. The representative shall have the right to sit on the Board of Inquiry and to take full part as a member of such board in the proceedings thereof. The Board of Inquiry as so constituted shall proceed to investigate the dispute and make and publish a report, or majority and minority reports, of the conclusions reached, within 6 days after the close of its hearings and within not more than 30 days from the date of issue of the original request by the chairman to the two sides to the dispute, unless extended on unanimous request of the board or the National Industrial Tribunal. It shall transmit copies of this report or reports to the Secre- taries of Commerce and of Labor, respectively, and to the National Industrial Tribunal, where they shall be matters of public reqord. 8. Transformation of the Regional Boards of Inquiry Into Regional Boards of Adjustment. At any time during the progress of the inquiry at which both sides shall have selected representatives and agreed to submit the dispute for adjustment, the Board of Inquiry shall become a Board of Adjustment by the admission to membership on the boar^d of such representatives. The side or sides which appoint representatives after the date fixed in the original request of the chairman shall, because of its delay, suffer a reduction in the number of peremptory challenges to which it otherwise would have been entitled. The Board of Adjustment so constituted shall proceed to the determination of the dispute as though it had been organized within the period originally fixed by the chairman. 9. Umpire. When a Regional Board of Adjustment is unable to reach a unanimous determina- tion it may by unanimous vote select an umpire and refer the dispute to him with Digitized by VjOOQle

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Tot Railroad Telegrapher. 15 the provision that his determination shall be final and shall have the same force and effect as a unanimous determination of such Regional Board. 10. Combination of Regions. Whenever the questions involved in a dispute extend beyond the boundaries of a single region, the regions to which the dispute extends shall, for the purpose of such dispute, be combined by order of the National Industrial Tribunal, which shall designate the chairman of one of the regions concerned to act as chairman in connec- tion with the dispute in question. Two employer members and two employe members shall be chosen from the combined panels of the regions involved in the dispute under rules and regulations to be established by the National Industrial Tribunal. The members representing tbe two sides to the dispute shall be chosen as in the case of a dispute in a single region. A Regional Board of Inquiry or of Adjustment constituted for a dispute extending beyond the boundaries of a single region shall have the same rights and powers conferred upon a Regional Board for a single region. 11. Effect of Decision. Whenever an agreement is reached by the parties to a dispute or a determination is announced by a Regional Board of Adjustment, or by an Umpire, or by the National Industrial Tribunal, the agreement or determination shall have the full force and effect of a trade agreement which the parties to the dispute are bound to carry out. 12. General Provisions. In connection with their task of inquiry and adjustment, the Regional Boards and the National Tribunal shall have the right to subpoena witnesses, to examine them under oath, to require the production of books and papers pertinent to the inquiry, and their assistance in all proper ways to enable the boards to ascertain the facts in reference to the causes of the dispute and the basis of a fair adjustment. Provision shall be made by law for the protection of witnesses and to prevent the misuse of any information so obtained. All members of the tribunal and boards heretofore described, including the chair- man and vice-chairman, shall be entitled to vote. The President shall have the power of removal of the members of the tribunal and boards. In the presentation of evidence to the tribunal and the boards each side shall hare the right to present its position through representatives of its own choosing. The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Labor in making nominations tor the National Industrial Tribunal and in preparing and revising the regional panels of employers and employes shall from time to time develop suitable systems to bsure their selections being truly representative. The Natlohal Industrial Tribunal, the Regional Boards of Adjustment, and the Umpires shall in each of their determinations specify the minimum period during *Mch such determinations shall be effective and binding. In case of emergency a Regional Adjustment Board or the National Industrial Tribunal may, after hearing both sides, alter its determination by abridging or extending the period specified. . 13. Special Provisions. The terms of office of members of the National Industrial Board shall be six years; at the outset three members, including one from each group, shall be appointed for a term of two years, three members for a term of four years, and three members for a term of six years; thereafter three members, one from each group, shall retire at the end of each period of two years. Members shall be eligible for reappointment. Digitized by L.ooQle

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16 The Railroad Telegrapher. The regional panels provided for in Section 5 shall be revised annually by the Secretaries of Commerce and of Labor, respectively, in qonference with the employers and employes, respectively, of each region. 14. Relation of Boards to Existing Machinery for Conciliation and Adjustment The establishment of the National Industrial Tribunal and the Regionl Boards described shall not affect existing machinery of conciliation, adjustment, and arbitra- tion established under the Federal Government, under the governments of the several States and Territories or subdivisions thereof, or under mutual agreements of employers and employes. Any industrial agreement made between employers and employes may, by consent of the parties, be filed with the National Industrial Tribunal. Such filing shall con- stitute agreement by the parties that in the event of a dispute they will maintain the status existing at the time the dispute originated until a final determination, and that any dispute not adjusted by means of the machinery provided through the agreement shall pass on appeal to the National Industrial Tribunal for determination, as in the case of a dispute submitted on appeal from a Regional Board. III. OBJECTS OF PLAN. The main objects of the above plan are to secure national co-ordination and to stimulate the formation of bodies for local adjustment The requirement of unanimity of agreement has by experience in the United States proved remarkably successful and should assure such confidence that neither side can rightfully refuse to submit to adjustment A precedent condition of such submission is that the interruption of production shall be delayed. The frank meeting of the parties in controversy together with other men skilled in questions at issue always gives promise of settlement. On the other hand, refusal to submit to the board not only inaugurates a legal inquiry but also prejudices the obstinate party or parties in public opinion. Moreover, the fact that membership on the board of inquiry is available to either party to the conflict singly would tend further to weaken the position of the other. When both parties join, the board at once becomes a Board of Adjustment, and con- flict ceases by agreement until a determination is reached. IV. STATEMENT AS TO PUBLIC UTILITY INDUSTRIES. The plan here proposed presents greater difficulties in application to certain public utilities than to competitive industry. The continuous operation of public utilities is vital to public welfare. As the capital invested is employed in public use, so is the labor engaged in public service; and the withdrawal of either with the result of suspending service makes the people the real victim. While continuous operation of all utilities is conducive to the general convenience of the people, that of some of them is essential to their very existence. Of .the later class the railways are a conspicuous example and bear the same relation to the bod> politic as do the arteries to the human body. Suspension produces practical social and economic anarchy and may impose hardship even to the point of starvation upon large sections of the community. The interruption in such essential public utilities is intolerable. The Conference believes that a plan of tribunals or Boards of Adjustment and Inquiry should be applied to public utilities, but in the adaptation of the plan two problems present themselves. First, governmental regulation of public utilities is now usually confined to rates and services. The Conference considers that there must be some merging of responsibility for regulation of rates and services and the settlement of wages and conditions of labor. Such co-ordination would give greater security to the public, to employe and to employer. Second, is the problem whether some method can be arrived at that will avert all danger of interruption to service. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 17 These matters require further consideration before concrete proposals are put forward. V. STATEMENT AS TO GOVERNMENT EMPLOYES. The Government is established in the interests of all the people. It can be con- ducted effectively only by those who give to its service an undivided allegiance. The terms and conditions of employment in the Government service are prescribed by law. Therefore, no interference by any group of Government employes, or others, with the continuous operation of Government functions through concerted cessation of work or threats thereof can be permitted. The right of Government employes to associate for mutual protection, the ad- vancement of their interests, or the presentation of grievances cannot be denied, but no such employes who are connected with the administration of justice or the maintenance of public safety or public order should be permitted to join or retian membership in any organization which authorizes the use of the strike or which is affiliated with any organization which authorizes the strike. The Conference is not now expressing an opinion upon the propriety of the affiliation of other classes of Government employes with organizations which author- ize the use of the strike. The principles above stated are not to be construed as inconsistent with the right of employes individually to leave the public service. It is, further, an essential part of the application of these principles that tribunals shall be established for prompt hearing of requests and prompt remedy of grievances. The legislation of the Nation, the States, and the municipalities should be improved in such a way as to prevent delay in hearings and to enable speedy action when there are grievances. VI. FURTHER WORK OF THE CONFERENCE. On reconvening the Conference will continue its consideration of tribunals for the furtherance of industrial peace in general industry in the light of whatever criticisms and suggestions the publication of its tentative plan may call forth. It will receive reportd of investigations that are being made for it On the basis of such reports and of further study of these and the other subjects within its field, the Conference hopes that it may be able to contribute something more toward the better industrial relations described in the words addressed to it by the President when he called it into being— relations in which “the workman will feel himself induced to put forth his best efforts, the employer will have an encouraging profit, and the public will not suffer at the hands of either class.” To this end it invites the co-operation of all citizens who have at heart the realization of this ideal of a better industrial civilization. The President’s Industrial Conference. (Signed) W. B. Wilson, Chairman. Herbert Hoover, Vice Chairman. Martin H. Glynn, Thomas W. Gregory, Richard Hooker, Stanley King, Samuel W. McCall, Attested: Henry R. Seageb, Executive Secretary. December, 19, 1919. Henry M. Robinson, Julius Rosen wald, Oscar S. Straus, Henry C. Stuart, F. W. Taussig, William 0. Thompson, Henry J. Waters, George W. Wickersham, Owen D. Young, Members. Digitized by L-ooQle

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18 The Railroad Telegrapher. Mr. Samuel Gompers, president of the American Federation of Labor, in discussing this report, says: “I have read the tentative report of the Industrial Commission and, except for its opening declaration, find nothing new and little of interest. “In the opening statement the report sets forth “The right relationship between employer and employe in large industries can be promoted by the deliberative organization .of that relationship.” But the report fails to give definite recognition to the application of this truth. Both employers and employes must be organized in order to become responsible parties to any system of mediation, or arbitration — otherwise the arbitration tribunal must deal with individuals instead of organized groups. The principle of representation depends upon organization. “The failure of the Conference to recognize definitely the organizations of workers — trade unions — as the basis for representation is a fatal omission. Certainly the Conference should reconsider this point in order to make possible the confidence and co-operation of wage earners which can be expressed only through organizations of their own making. “Any plan to establish or maintain anything like fair relations between workers and employers must avoid compulsory features. The mass of America’s workers are American citizens and in that sovereign citizenship they are free men. Any proposal for compulsory labor is repugnant to American sovereignty and citizenship. “In order to promote constructive and permanent changes that will eliminate causes of much industrial unrest the Conference should consider governmental agencies to provide the necessary information and assistance in securing continuous betterment of working conditions. That problem must ultimately be worked out by employers and employes, but the Government should advise and assist “It should always be borne in mind that our social fabric is based on mutuality and voluntary institutions. “It is something not yet fully understood how perfectly safe freedom Is.” Decision of Questions Submitted to the United States Railroad Administration and Canadian Railway Board of Adjustment No. 1 UNITED STATES RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION Washington, December 10, 1919. GENERAL ORDER NO. 65. Grievances affecting employes belonging to classes which are or will be included in national agreements, which have been, or may be, made between the United States Railroad Administration and employes’ organizations will be handled aa follows: (a) Grieveances on railroads not having agreements with employes, which grievances occurred prior to the effective date of any national agreement, will be bandied by railroad officials in the usual manner with the committees and officials of the organizations affected for final reference to the Director of Labor, as provide*} In -Circular No. 3 of the Division of Laber. Grievances on railroads having agreed Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 19 meats with employes, which grievance occurred prior to the effective date of any national agreement, will be handled by railroad officials in the usual manner with the committees and officials of the organizations with which the agreement was made, for final reference to Railroad Boards of Adjustment, as provided in General Orders creat- ing such boards. Decisions made as the result of such reference will apply to the period antedating the effective date of such national agreement and, from the effective date of that agreement, will be subject to any changes that are brought about by the national agreement. (b) Grievances which occurred on the effective date of any national agreement, and subsequent thereto, will be handled by the committees of the organizations signatory to such national agreement for final reference to the appropriate railroad board of adjustment, except on roads where other organizations of employes have an agreement with the management for the same class of employes, in which case grievances will be handled under that agreement by the committees of the organization which holds the agreement for final reference to the Director of Labor as provided in Circular No. 3 of the Division of Labor. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads. CANADIAN RAILWAY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT NO. 1. Montreal, December 12, 1919. Case No. 62, heard at Montreal December 11th, 1919, concerning the Canadian National Railways (eastern lines) and the order of railroad telegraphers. Appointment of Operator J. C. Roy to position of third trick operator at Charney, Que. JOINT STATEMENT. Mr. J. C. Roy was the senior applicant for position of third trick operator at Charney, Que. On April 22nd, 1819, he was adviesd by Mr. Desjardins, Superintendent, of his appointment to this position. On May 26th, 1919, he was further advised by Mr. Desjardins that he must resume duty at Diamond Junction, as father and son cannot be employed at same station. CONTENTION OF EMPLOYES. Telegraphers contend this tp be a violation of the seniority rules of schedule In effect and that Mr. Roy should receive the appointment. CONTENTION OF RAILWAYS. That it is a standing rule of the railways that father and son cannot be employed where one is under the jurisdiction of the other. For the Order of Railroad Telegraphers: For Canadian National Railways: (Signed) J. J. Trainor, (Signed) F. P. Brady, General Chairman. General Manager. GENERAL STATEMENT. The oral evidence which was given by Mr. L. Desjardins, superintendent at Levis, and Mr. J. J. Trainor, general chairman of the telegraphers, of Charlottetown, P. E. I., ns conflicting as to there being any actual understanding that such a regulation existed as prevented the employment of father and son where one had the jurisdiction onr the other. It seems that an order of the Minister of Railways regulating the employment of relatives was issued some years ago to the railway officers which, however, does not Mems to have been issued to the employes. The general provision of the schedule rsgardiiife promotions is contained in Article 6, Clause (a), which reads in p$rt: Digitized by Google

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20 The Railroad Telegrapher. “(a) The right of promotion of telegraphers will extend over each general superintendent's district and will be governed by merit, fitness and ability, of which the general superintendent shall be the judge. Where these are sufficient senior telegraphers will be given preference, etc.” It was shown in this case that merit and ability were sufficient and the Board gave considerable attention to the view that the word “fitness” might in some cases with propriety be held to sustain any objection by the company to an appointment on the ground qf relationship. DECISION. Mr. J. C. Roy having, pursuant to the terms of the Telegraphers* Schedule, applied for the position of third trick operator at Charney, and having been advised of his appointment thereto, the Board decides that under all the circumstances of the case the claim of the employes be sustained. The Board would not, however, be justified in rendering a decision which might be generally construed as preventing arrangements being made in individual cases which will properly protect the interests of the company. S. N. Berry, Geo. Hodge, Chairman. Vice-Chairman. The Railroad Bill — The Plumb Plan Speech of Hon. Thetus W. Sims Tuesday, November 11, 1919. The House in Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union had under consideration the bill (H. R. 10453) to provide for the termination of Federal control of railroads and systems of transportation; to provide for the settlement of disputes between carriers and their employes; to further amend an act entitled “An act to regulate commerce,*' approved February 4, 1887, as amended, and for other purposes. ****** Mr. Sims: Mr. Chairman, under date of November 1, I addressed the following letter to the executive committee of the National Plumb Plan League, with headquar ters in this city. A copy of that letter I now make a part of my speech: Executive Committee of the Plumb Plan League, Washington, D. C. Dear Sirs; As I introduced, by request, the bill now called the Plumb plan bill, I I naturally have many inquiries a6 to just what is intended to be accomplished by its j enactment. I do not feel entirely competent to reply to such inquiries on my own j responsibility; therefore, I ask you to give me a succinct, but plain and easily under- stood, statement of what is expected to be accomplished by the enactment of the Plumb plan bill, as I want to use it in making replies to any and all inquiries along the line I have indicated. Very truly yours, (Signed) T. W. Sims. I received the following reply to my letter, signed by our former colleague, Hon. Edward Keating: The Plumb Plan League Headquarters, Munsey Building, Washington, D. C., November 5, 1919. Hon. Thetus W. Sims, House Office Building, Washington, D. C. My Dear Judge: The members of the executive committee of the National Plumb Plan League have asked me to reply to your letter of November 1, in which you ask 1 for an “easily understood statement” of what its sponsors hope to accomplish through j Digitized by Google |

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 21 the enactment of the so-called Plumb plan for democratic control of the transporta- tion system of the Nation. Perhaps the best way to get at the issue would be to ask ourselves a few. frank questions and to endeavor to make equally frank replies. Why did the Federal Government take over the railroads? What is the status of the railroad problem after two years of Government control? What is the Plumb plan, who are responsible for it, and what do they hope to accomplish? WHY ROADS WERE TAKEN OVER. The Federal Government took over the railroads in the winter of 1917-18, because private ownership had utterly collapsed. That may seem a strong statement, but an examination of the facts will reveal that it is entirely truthful and conservative. The United States became involved in the World War in the spring of 1917. Our associates in Europe told us frankly that they needed food, munitions, and supplies of all kinds, and that unless we could meet their needs promptly and generously they could not hope to withstand the attacks of the German hosts. The Government appealed to the railroads to do their part in getting the mate- rials required to the seacoast, so they might be transported across the Atlantic. Pri- vate ownership was In complete control and was receiving the aid and encouragement of the Government; yet it broke down at practically every point Finally the President of the United tSates received an imperative cablegram from the premiers of the allied powers, stating that instead of making good on our prom- ises we had only delivered about 50 per cent of the tonnage guaranteed. They made It very clear that unless we could redeem our promises the allied cause was seriously jeopardized. With this Macedonian cry ringing in his ears, the President took over the rail- roads, and almost instantly the stream of supplies for Europe grew in volume and eventually it surpassed the most optimistic estimates of those in authority. Here is a fact that those who sneer at Government^ ownership should bear In mind: For the greater part of a century private ownership had control of the rail- road systems of this country — it was the recipient of special privileges valued at bil- lions of dollars — and yet when subjected to the supreme test of war it failed. And here is another fact that should be borne In mind : While the National Rail- road Administration has been guilty of many blunders, and some of the responsible officials of extravagances that border on jriminality, nevertheless, history will record that Government control succeeded where private ownership had failed. WHAT RAILROAD OWNERS ASK. What is the status of the railroad problem? We hear a great deal of talk about returning the railroads to their owners, and undoubtedly many people imagine that the owners of railroad securities are merely asking that their properties shall be returned in the condition in which the Govern- ment found them. Of course, you and I know that is not the case. If the Government were to throw the railroads back on their owners’ hands, scores of systems would be In bankruptcy inside of 90 days, and this country would probably be convulsed by a most serious panics. This despite the fact that the Government had expended hundreds of mil- lions for Improvements and new equipment. What is proposed is that the railroads shall be returned with a guaranty by the Government that the stockholders shall receive for a period of six months dividends at the highest rate known in the history of American railroading. In addition, it is proposed that the Interstate Commerce Commission shall be Instructed to fix rates so that those dividends may be continued, and in order to still Digitized by Google

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22 The Railroad Telegrapher. farther facilitate matters it is suggested that the Government open the Treasury of the United States for the purpose of assisting in refinancing the roads. Nowhere is adequate provision made to squeeze the billions of "water” out of the securities with which the various lines are burdened, and undoubtedly the rail- road interests Intend that the people shall be taxed, through increased freight and passenger rates, so that exorbitant dividends will be paid not only on genuine invest- ments but on the "shadow dollars" which represent the loot of the Morgans, the Goulds, and the other financial buccaneers who dominated the railroad world in "the good old days." That this is true is proved by Wall Street's insistence that the railroads are worth $20,000,000,000. Even members of Congress have fallen into the error of ac- cepting those figures. The Interstate Commerce Commission has for years been conducting an inquiry into the value of the roads, and the figures so far made public by the commission indicate that, instead of being worth $20,000,000,000, the roads could be reproduced for $12,000,000,000. The quotations on railroad securities posted on the New York Stock Exchange every day confirm those figures. If the Government could step into the exchange to- day and buy every bond and every share of stock at the prices quoted, the total ex- penditure required would not exceed $12,000,000,000. I remember in the old days we used, to get red in the face denouncing Govern- ment subsidies for various enterprises, but the ancient shlpsubsidy scheme and kin- dred projects were of little Importance compared with this proposition put forward by the railroad executives in legislation now pending before Congress. WOOLLEY PREDICTS INCREASED RATES. Right here, in passing, may I call your attention to the statement from Interstate Commerce Commissioner R. W. Woolley, which recently appeared in the public press, in which that distinguished authority warns the American people that the return of the railroads to private ownership will mean an Increase in freight and passenger rates of 25 per cent and maybe more? I need not tell you that this means an addition of almost a billion dollars to the freight bills of the shippers of this country, and that a billion dollars in freight charges, by the time it is finally passed on to the ultimate consumer, who pays all bills in this country, will expand to three to five billions. That would Inevitably force a further increase in the price of the necessaries of life, and I think you will agree with me that our country is scarcely in a position to face that kind of a calamity. PRINCIPAL FEATURES OF THE PLUMB PLAN. And now as to the Plumb plan itself. There are approximately 2,000,000 organized railroad workers in the United States. They belong to 14 national and international organizations. From the very nature of things they are deeply Interested in the solution of the railroad problem. They sat by while statesmen of all parties, the railroad executives, and committees representing railroad stockholders submitted plans for railroad legis- lation, and finally they decided to submit a plan of their own. It is called the Plumb plan because the author is Glenn E. Plumb, the attorney for the affiliated railroad labor organizations and one of the great authorities on every question relating to the railroad issue. The Plumb plan was submitted to the representatives of the 14 railroad organ- izations, and after months of study and many amendments was unanimously indorsed. Since then it has secured the support of practically the entire labor movement and many influential farm organizations. A bill embodying the Plumb plan was presented to Congress by yourself on August 2, 1919. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 23 OWNERS TO BE COMPENSATED. It provides that the Government shall retain control of all the railroads and that the owners of the roads shall be compensated for every dollar honestly invested. The opponents of the Plumb plan are fdnd of charging that it is proposed to “con- fiscate” the holdings of the security holders. Nothing could be further from the truth. Section 3 of your bill creates a railways board of appraisement and extension. This board is empowered to ascertain the amount of compensation to be paid by the United States to the owners of the several transportation properties. It is specifi- cally provided — The appraisement board shall ascertain the value of all the rights, property In- rertments, powers, authorities and privileges granted in and acquired under the char- ters of the several corporate owners, and the laws under which they operate and the grants made to individual owners owning or operating such properties. That all values not included in the grants made In the charters of the corporate owners or the laws under which they operate, or in the grants made to Individual owners, shall be regarded as values retained by the public in the public highways of the United States and not subject to compensation. In the event that the appraisement board and the owners of the property can agree on a price, the Government will at once compensate the owners in cash. CASH OR BONDS IN PAYMENT. If an agreement cannot be reached the owners have a right to appeal to the courts, and eventually to the Supreme Court of the United States. At every point in the proceedings the owners’ interests are safeguarded, and there- fore there can be no question that they will receive every dollar to which they are entitled. Payment for the property is to be made either through the issuance of bonds to the owners, or through the sale of bonds and the payment of cash to the owners. Having secured control of the roads, it is proposed that they shall be operated by the national railways operating corporation. The bill says “the purpose of said corporation shall be for public service and not for private profit,” and therefore the corporation will issue no stocks or bonds. It is to be managed by a board of directors of 16 members. Five of these directors are to represent the classified employes of the railway lines, five the official employes, and five are to be designated by the President of the United States. The "official employes” will include all holding supervisory positions, while the rank and file of the workers will make up the “classified employes.” The board of directors thus made up will be authorized to operate all the trans- portation lines in the country. All questions concerning wages and working conditions are to be disposed of ay a central board of wages and working conditions, composed equally of represen- tatives of the classified employes and the official employes. In case this board cannot reach a majority decision an appeal may be taken to the board of directors. RATES FIXED BY INDEPENDENT BODY. Freight and passenger rates are to be fixed by the Interstate Commerce Commis- sion, which will be independent of the national railways operating corporation, and which, as now, will be named by the President of the United States and will in no way be controlled by the railway employes. The opponents of the. Plumb plan say we are proposing to turn the railroads over to the employes without any restrictions, and that through combination between the official employes and the classified employes they could boost wages to any figure they saw fit, and compel the rest of the community to foot the bill. There is nothing to this contention. In the first place, the Interstate Commerce Digitized by Google

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24 The IUilroad Telegrapher. Commission has sole power to fix rates, and the commission would continue to be an independent body. Of course, wages could not be raised unreasonably without an increase in rates, and there the commission would have the veto power. Then Con- gress, representing all the people, would be in a position to intervene, and public sentiment would undoubtedly compel it to act if any such holdup were attempted. We think we have safeguarded this provision by providing that all surplus earn- ings, resulting from increased efficiency of employes, shall be divided equally be- tween the Treasury of the United States and the employes. The portion set aside for the employes shall be divided between the classified employes and the official employes, but every official employe is to receive at least twice the rate of dividend that is given to the classified employe. A BARRIER AGAINST COLLUSION. As there are a hundred times as many classified employes as there are official eipployes, it can be seen at once that it would be mathematically impossible to figure but any scheme by which the official employes could go into a conspiracy with the classified employes to secure a salary increase without sacrificing their own financial interests. In other words, it is demonstrable that the official employes can get more through their share of the saving than they could get from any possible division with the classified employes. This method of sharing dividends sets up a natural barrier against collusion. Of course, it is conceivable that some better scheme for regulating wages may be suggested. If so, I want to assure you we are prepared to give it consideration, because the railroad workers of this country have no desire to gouge their fellow citizens. Another criticism directed at the Plumb plan is that we propose to take the management of the lines from those who have demonstrated their ability and vest it in workers who lack managerial experience. Let us examine that objection for a moment. Who “runs” the railroads of the United States today? First, we have in Wall Street a number of gentlemen who by devious methods remain in control of the railroads, but they do not run the roads in the sense of operating them. They have no technical knowledge of the railroad business, and confine themselves exclusively to the work of financing the roads. In many in- stances they use this power to finance in such a way as to exploit the roads to the detriment of the stockholders and of the community at large. Is it necessary for me to remind you of the New Haven scandal and countless other deals of the same unsavory character? The real work of operation is carried on by the official employes and the classi- fied employes — 2,000,000 of them. HOW WALL STREET WOULD BE ELIMINATED. Now, under the Plumb plan there would be no need of retaining the services of these Wall Street gentlemen, because no ene would be permitted to either finance or exploit the railroads of the United States. The financing would be taken care of when the Government took over the roads and compensated the owners. Exploita- tion would become a matter of ancient history. Under the new dispensation the sole duty of the board of directors would be to actually manage the railroads of the country. That being true, where could you secure more efficient managers than from the official employes and the classified employes? Add to these five distinguished busi- ness and professional men, selected by the President of the United States, and you would have such a board of directors as no railroad has had in the history of the industry. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 25 Wbat do we hope to accomplish by the enactment of the Plumb plan? First, we hope to place this great industry, which is so essential to the happiness and well-being of our people, in a position where it will be operated for service and not for profit. This means that industry everywhere will be stimulated; that one section or one city will not be developed at the expense of another section or an- other city, but that every part of the country will receive the same treatment as every other part. WORKERS NO LONGER MERE COGS. Second. Two million American workers will cease to be mere cogs in a machine and will become full partners in their country's greatest business enterprise. Such a change will have the same effect on them that political liberty had on their fathers more than a century ago. Before 1776 governments were run like railroads were run in this country prior to 1917. A few kings, princes, and dukes “financed,” “exploited,” and “directed,” and the great mass of the people paid the bill. And then America laid down the proposition that governments derived their Inst powers from the consent of the governed and every citizen over 21 who was not in a jail or an insane asylum became a partner in the Government. Of course, a great many good people wagged their heads and said the thing could not be done; that these rough, uneducated men would destroy government and plunge society into the vortex of anarchy. These fears were never realized, and now all over the world even kings are accepting the “American” idea. The Plumb plan proposes to do for the railroad business what the Declaration of Independence did for the business of government. Surely the workers who are permitted to participate in the election of public officials from constable to Presi- dent of the United States should be capable of selecting a member of a board of di- rectors of a great industry which furnishes them with their bread and butter. WOULD AMERICANIZE RAILROADS. Some people speak of the Plumb plan as an attempt to socialize the railroads of the country. Others say it means naturalization, but, to my mind, it contem- plates the Americanization of the railroads. It is an American plan, formulated by an American, and sponsored by organizations whose Americanism can not be ques- tioned. If we are not careful, however, America will not be the first to adopt this Ameri- can plan. The cables tell us that the British Government has submitted to the rail- way workers and the latter have accepted a proposition which looks to the adoption of the essential principles of the Plumb plan. If this scheme goes through — and it undoubtedly will — the railroads of the United Kingdom will be managed by a board of directors of 12, 4 to be selected by the owners of the roads, 4 by the employes, and 4 by the Government. Two of the Government's representatives, however, are to be members of organized labor. Thus organized labor will have 6 members, while the public and the owners will have an equal number. This probably gives the organized workers greater power than they would have under the Plumb plan, but the railroad men of America, as represented by the rail- road organizations, are not seeking power, but industrial freedom. ONLY PLAN WHICH REDUCES RATES. Third. The Plumb plan is the only suggestion now before the American peo- ple which guarantees a decrease in freight and passenger rates. All the other plans call for increases. The Plumb plan directs that whenever the net earnings of the roads shall exceed 10 per cent of the gross operating revenues the Interstate Commerce f Commission shall automatically order a 5 per cent decrease in rates. In practical operation this scheme would work as follows: Let us suppose that the gross operating revenue amounted to $4,500,000,000 and that the profits, or net Digitized by Google

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26 The Railroad Telegrapher. earnings, totaled $500,000,000, or more than 10 per cent. One-half of this latter sum, or $250,000, 000* would be divided between the employes, official and classified. The other $250,000,000 would be turned into the Treasury of the United States and the Interstate Commerce Commission would at once order a 5 per cent blanket decrease in freight and passenger rates. EFFECT OF DECREASED RATES. See what would follow: Without new economies or new business the profits the next year would be only $250,000,000, and the employes and the Government would receive only half the amount of the year before. But decreased rates mean more business; and also, the reduction in dividends would stimulate the employes to improve their operation by applying better methods. So the tendency would be to assure constantly decreasing rates, to add to the volume of business, and to give the most efficient service human ingenuity and devotion could provide. Decreased rates mean cheaper commodities; and so, through the effectiveness of the railroads, the purchasing power of money would be increased not only for the railroad man, but for every wage earner and every purchaser. The Plumb plan provides still another method by which rates may be reduced. The Government can secure the money to purchase the lines at 4)4 per cent Under private ownership the public will be taxed to pay not less than 6)4 per cent and in all probability more. Under the Plumb plan the “water” will be taken out of railroad securities, and 4)4 per cent will be paid on $12,000,000,060. Under private ownership the “water” not not be taken out, and at least 6)4 per cent will be paid on $20,000,000,000. Under the Plumb plan the interest charge would be $540,000,000, and under pri- vate ownership $1,300,000,000. The difference would remain in the pockets of the American people in the form of reduced freight and passenger rates. RAILROADS OUT OF POLITICS. Fourth. The Plumb plan would take the railroads out of politics forever and , thus remove one of the most pernicious influences in public life. Fifth. The Plumb plan would develop American waterways to the European standards. The railroads have strangled water transportation In this country and will continue to do so under private ownership. In Europe the canals and rivers carry the greater part of the bulky freight, and the railroads remain free to perform their legitimate functions. Sixth. The Plumb plan will end speculation, stock jobbing, and Wall Street gambling so far as railroad securities are concerned. The importance of this can not be appreciated unless one is familiar with what congressional investigations have revealed concerning the manipulation of railroad securities. You will recall the Pujo report made to Congress in 1913. It showed that while 700,000 people owned railroad stocks and bonds, four great banks in New York controlled all the Important lines of transportation in this country. They ruled like feudal barons, not because they actually owned the stock of the roads, but because they were in a position to manipulate the cards according to Wall Street's rules. In that way they secured power such as nd citizen, or combination of citizens, should possess in a republic. Seventh. The Plumb plan would solve our industrial problem, so far as one great basic industry is concerned. Men do not strike against themselves, although they have the right to do so. Assured of wages which would enable them to live according to American standards, and guaranteed a share in the savings produced by Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 27 their skill and industry, the railroad workers would have a compelling interest in the uninterrupted operation of the great lines of transportation. AS THE WORKERS VIEW IT. In conclusion, my dear Judge, may I say that one of America's greatest writers caught the spirit of this movement for industrial democracy when he quoted a rail- road worker as making the following reply to the question, “Why the Plumb plan?": It means that I will work for myself; I will work for my neighbors! for the public. It means that I will no longer work for Wall Street; for the banking syndicate that rules the railroads for private profit; for speculation; for robbery; it means that I am to be a free man, as was my father, who carved out his own fortune in fxtee America. This is what the Plumb plan means. It is a declaration of independence for 2,000,000 workingmen. It means that we will use our brains as well as our hands; that we will put 100 per cent of ourselves into our jobs. We will do this not be- cause we will share in the savings due to our own efficiency, but because we are vorking at a common undertaking that we want to make a success. This is the Plumb plan. It means freedom — freedom for you; freedom to the manufacturer from discriminatory rail rates; freedom to the farmer to bring his produet direct to the consumer. It means transportation at cost. And it means to me that I become a servant of the American people in the best sense of the term. Under the Plumb plan I will work for my country and for myself as well. This is true Americanism. Assuring you of my high regard, 1 remain, Sincerely, (Signed) EDWARD KEATING, Manager Plumb Plan League. Speech of Hon. Thetus W. Sims Monday, November 17, 1919. The House in Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union had un- der consideration the bill (H. R. 10453) to provide for the termination of Federal control of railroads and systems of transportation; to provide for the settlement of disputes between carriers and their employes; to further amend an act entitled "An act to regulate commerce," approved February 4, 1887, as amended, and for other purposes. Mr. Sims: Mr. Chairman, I do not want to ask for more time. Therefore, I ask unanimous consent to revise and extend my remarks, as I wish to add a list of rail- road officials and the compensation they received for the year 1917. * • + Take the greatest railroad system in this country, which is, according to my judgment, the Pennsylvania Railroad System. It had for the year 1917 a president at a salary of $75,460, which is more than the President of the United States re- ceives. It has 11 vice-presidents with compensations beginning with $40,620 and running down to $^5,000. I have only included the officers of this system receiving salaries of $20,000 and over. In all, it has in this class 23 officers and attorneys whose compensation is from $20,000 up to $75,460, amounting in all to $681,960. The Presi- dent of tke United States receives $75,900. Ten Cabinet officers receive altogether $120,000. The nine Justices of the Supreme Court receive $126,500. The Vice-Presi- dent of the United States receives $12,000. The Speaker of the House of Representa- tives receives $12,000. These 23, the highest-paid officials of all departments of the Government, executive, judicial, and legislative, all combined, receive salaries Digitized by VjOOQle

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28 The Railroad Telegrapher. amounting to $346,500, just a little more than half the 23 executive officials of the Pennsylvania Railroad System amount to all combined. Did the Interstate Commerce Commission have any power to consider the rea- sonableness of expenses of operation, including the payment of salaries to railroad officials greater than that of the President of the United States in fixing rates? I said the other day in my opening remarks that some of the ablest railroad officials in the United States have never received salaries of more than $25,000. This amendment is to limit expenses chargeable to costs of operation, and does not prevent these railroad officials receiving any amount in, excess of $20,000 each, provided it is paid out of the net earnings which belong to the stockholders who elect the directors, who allow these exorbitant salaries. They undoubtedly do it for other reasons than the public interest, as the public interest requires no such ex- travagant expenses of operation of this kind. The owners of the roads are responsi- ble for the employment and compensation of these officials. I do not object to giving Mr. Rea the salary he receives if it comes out of the not earnings in excess of $20,000. A distinguished official of the Southern Railroad, coming from Virginia, a fine young man, gets $50,500. These salaries of railroad of- ficials that I have referred to were for the year 1917, and my information comes from the report of the Government Railroad Wage Board. Now, the Director General may have employed more laborers under operation and effect of the Adamson eight-hour law, and for the further reason that the best men they had were taken from them for Army service, both here and abroad, but everyone knows that they have not employed more general officers than did the railroads themselves before they were taken over. The railroads, prior to Federal control, had for the year 1917, 208 gen- eral officers, including attorneys and receivers, receiving $20,000 and over a year as salaries or compensation. The following were the officials and attorneys of the Pennsylvania system who received salaries of $20,000 and in excess of that sum for the year 1917: Samuel S. Rea, president $75,460 James J. Turner, vice-president 40,620 W. W. Atterburry, vice-president * 40.000 W. Heyward Myers, vice-president 35,200 Edward B. Taylor, vice-president 31,235 G. L. Peck, vice-president 30,030 George Dallas Dixon, vice-president .* 30,000 D. T. McCabe, vice-president 30,000 B. McKeen, vice-president 25,020 W. Heyward Myers, vice-president 25,000 J. M. Schoomaker, vice-president 25,000 Henry Tatnall, vice-president ...., 25,000 James F. Fahnestock, treasurer 20,000 William Newell Bannard, special assistant to general manager 25,000 Thomas Rodd, chief engineer 21,080 Francis I. Gowen, general counsel 30.000 C. B. Helseman, general counsel 20,000 Henderson & Burr, solicitors 29,700 Loech & Richards, solicitors 25,805 0‘Brien, Boardman, Harper & Fox, counsel 26,500 G. S. Patterson, general solicitor 30,000 A. H. Strong, genera] attorney 20,000 McKenney & Flannery, solicitors 21,250 Mr. Chairman, from the same official report it appears that the following general officers, receivers, and attorneys for class 1 railroads, during the calender year 1917,' received a compensation of not less than $20,000 per annum, to-wit: Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 29 List of railroad officers and attorneys who received a salary of $20,000 or more during 1917: Compensation. Aisbton, Richard H.f president, Chicago & North Western $50,240.00 Atterbury, W. W., vice-president in charge of operations, Pennsylvania 40,000.00 Auch, John F., vice-president and traffic manager, Philadelphia and Reading 20.000.00 Baker, Botts, Parker & Garwood, attorneys, Southern Pacific 30,000.00 Bannard, Wm. Newell, special agent to general manager, Pennsylvania 25.060.00 Batchelder. F. C., president, Baltimore & Ohio Chicago Terminal 22.015.00 Bell, M. L.. general counsel, Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway Co 59,486.45 Bernet, J. J., president and general manager, Nashville, Chattanooga & St St. Louis 26.906.66 Berry, J. B., consulting engineer, Los Angeles & Salt Lake 23,600.00 Better. W. G.. president and general manager, Central Railroad Co. of N. J. . 50,210.00 Biddle, W. B., president, St Louis-San Francisco Railroad 39,879.00 B»erd, W. G., president, Chicago & Alton i 36,646.55 Biacoe, H. M., vice-president, Boston & Albany 20,010.00 Blair, Joseph P„ general counsel, Southern Pacific 34,500.00 Bledsoe. Samuel T., assistant general solicitor, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 20,000.00 Blendinger, F. L., vice-president, Lehigh Valley 20,120.00 Bond, Hugh L., Jr., general counsel and director, Baltimore & Ohio 25,290.00 Bowes, Frank B., vice-president, Illinois Central 20,115.00 Brown, E. N., chairman board of directors, Pere Marquette 21,666.67 Brownell. Geo. F., vice-president and general solicitor, Erie 49.610.00 Bruce, Helm, local counsel, Louisville & Nashville 27,770.00 Buckland, Edward G., vice-president and general counsel, New York, New Haven & Hartford 22,699.99 Budd, Ralph, assistant to president, Great Northern 20,000.00 Born, Charles W., general counsel, Northern Pacific 30,000 00 Burnham, C. G., vice-president, Chicago, Burlington & Quincy 31,249.98 Bush, B. F., president, Missouri Pacific 44.170.00 Bush, D. L., vice-president, Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 20,010.00 Butler, Pierce, counsel of Federal Valuation,, Missouri Pacific 45,000.00 Byram, H. EL, president. Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 60,000.00 Byram, H. E.,vice-president, Chicago, Burlington & Quincy 22,500.00 Calvin, Edgar E., president, Union Pacific 35,080.00 Campbell, Benjamin, senior vice-president and director, New York, New Haven & Hartford 28,343.33 Capps, Chas. R., first vice-president and director, Seaboard Air Line 20,000.00 - Carey & Kerr, general counsel, Spokane, Portland & Seattle 22,500.00 Carpenter, Myron J.t president, Chicago, Terre Haute & Southeastern 25,040.00 Carter. Ledyard & Mil burn, general counsel, Denver & Rio Grande 55,000.00 Carstensen, John, vice-president. New York Central 35,000.00 Cary, Robert J., general counsel, New York Central 22.000.00 Cbadbourne & Shores, counsel, Denver & Rio Grande 63,000.00 Chambers, Edward, vice-president, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 25.000 00 Clark, James T„ president, Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha 25.160.00 Coapman, E. H„ vice-president, Southern 30,150.00 Cooke, Delos W., vice-president, Elrie 25.826.67 Cooper.Thomas. a sistant to president, Missouri Pacific 25.000.00 Cravath & Henderson, general counsel, St. Louis & San Francisco 20.000.00 Crowle>, P. E., operating vice-president, New York Central 25,000.00 Daly, C. F.f vice-president, Ne*r York Central , 35,000,00 Digitized by VjOOQle

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30 The Railroad Telegrapher. Darlow, E. R.( president, Buffalo & Susquehanna 35,300.00 Davis, J. M., vice-president, charge of operations and maintenance, Baltimore & Ohio 24,000.00 Bean, Richmond, vice-president, Pullman Co.* 30,000.00 Depew, Chauncey M., chairman board of directors, New York Central 25,260.00 Dice, Agnew T., president, Philadelphia & Reading 35,000.00 Dickinson, J. M., receiver, Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific 120,732.90 Dixon, Geo. Dallas, vice-president in charge of traffic, Pennsylvania 30,000.00 Donelly, Chas., assistant general counsel, Northern Pacific 20,000.00 Doran, Joseph I., general counsel, Norfolk & Western 20,310.00 t Earling, A. J., president, Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 75,319.00 I Earling, H. B., vice-president, Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 20,000.00 Edson, J. A., president, Kansas City Southern 25,000.00 Elliott, Howard, director, president, and chairman, New York, New Haven & Hartford 37.381.69 Evans, W. F., general solicitor, St. Louis & San Francisco 25,000.00 Fahnestock, James F., treasurer, Pennsylvania 20,000.00 Farrell, J. D., president. Union Pacific 30,030.00 Felton S. M., president, Chicago Great Western 40,259.96 Galloway, Chas. Wm., general manager, Baltimore & Ohio 20,210.00 Gilman, L. C., president, Spokane, Portland & Seattle 30,000.00 Gorman, J. E., president, Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific 47,715.00 Gowan, Marcus L., general counsel, Pennsylvania Railroad 30,000.00 Gowen, Francis I., general counsel, Pennsylvania 30,000.00 Gray, C. R., chairman of board, Western Maryland Railway 32,960.00 , Gruber, James M., vice-president and general manager, Great Northern 25,000.00 1 Hannaford, J. M., president, Northern Pacific 50,000.00 Hanson, Burton, general counsel, Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 25,000.00 Harahan, W. J., president, Seaboard Air Line 40,857.00 Harden, A. T., vice-president, New York Central 35,020.00 1 Harris, Albert H., vice-president, New York Central 35,560.00 Harrison, Fairfax, president, Southern 50,500.00 Hawkins, W. A., general attorney, El Paso & Southwestern 25,000.00 Heiseman, C. B., general counsel, Pennsylvania Western 20,000.00 Henderson & Burr, solicitors, Pennsylvania System 29,700.00 Herbert, J. M., president, St. Louis Southwestern of Texas 20,343.36 Herrin, William F., vice-president and chief counsel, Southern Pacific 38,170.00 Hill, Louis W., chairman. Great Northern 50,000.00 Hillard, Charles W., fourth vice-president, St. Louls-San Francisco 20,000.00 Hines, Walker D., director, chairman, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe 77,210.00 Holden, Hale, president and director, Chicago, Burlington & Quincy 65,000.00 House* F. E., president and general manager, Duluth & Iron Range 34,645.00 Howard, E. A., vice-president, Chicago, Burlington & Quincy 20,000.00 Hughitt, Marvin, Sr., chairman board of directors, Chicago & North Western 60,460.00 Hughltt, Marvin Jr., vice-president, Chicago & North Western 25,060.00 Hungerford, L. S., general manager, Pullman Co — 20,000.00 Huntington, C. W., president, Virginian Railway Co 20,660.00 Huntington, G. R., general mananget*, Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie 20,000.00 Hustis, James H., president, Boston & Maine 35,200.00 Hyser, Edward M., vice-president and general counsel, Chicago & North Western Railway 36,260.00 Ingersoll, Howard L., assistant to president, New York Central 20,000.00 Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 31 Inglis, Wm. W., vice-president and manager, Delaware, Lackawanna & Western 30,030.00 Jackson, Wm. J., receiver, Chicago ft Eastern Illinois 27,000.00 James, Arthur Curtis, vice-president, El Paso & Southwestern 26,650.00 Jeffery, B. T., chairman of board, Denver & Rio Grande 20,166.66 Jeffries, L. E., general counsel, Southern Railway 23,083.32 Jenney, Wm. S., vice-president and general counsel, Delaware, Lackawanna ft Western Railroad 31,383.98 Johnson, L. E., president, Missouri Pacific 60,090.00 Jongen, C. W., manager, Southern Pacific 21,500.00 Kearney, Ed F., president, Wabash 50,120.00 Keely, E. S., vice-president, Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 20,000.00 Kenney, Wm. P., vice-president, Great Northern 22,500.00 Kerr, John B., president and general manager-director, New York. Ontario ft Western Railway 20,230.00 Kramer, Le Roy, vice-president, Pullman Co 24,000.00 Kruttschnitt, J., chairman of executive comipittee of board of directors, Southern Pacific Transportation System 88,860.00 Kurn, J. M., president, Detroit, Toledo ft Ironton 20,000.00 lamb, EL T., president, Atlanta, Birmingham ft Atlantic 25,110.00 Lancaster, J. L., president and receiver, Texas ft Pacific, 20,470.00 Latbrop, Gardiner, general solicitor, Atchison, Topeka ft Santa Fe 25.000.00 L&wton-Cnnningham, general and division counsel, Central of Georgia 21,000.00 Ledyard, H. B., chairman board of directors, Michigan Central 30,240.00 Levey, Chas. M., president, the Western Pacific 25,420.00 Levy, Edw. D., first vice-president and general manager, St. Louis ft San Francisco 27,600.00 Lincoln, Robt. T., chairman board of directors, Pullman Co. 25,300.00 Lindley, E. C., vice-president, director, and general manager, Great Northern 20,000.00 Loech ft Richards, solicitors, Pennsylvania 25,805.00 Loomis, E. E., president, Lehigh Valley 44.287.18 Loomis, N. J., general solicitor, Uhlon Pacific 20,000.00 Loree, L. F., president, Delaware ft Hudson 50,800.00 Loree, L. F„ chairman board and executive commmlttee, Kansas City Southern 30,825.00 Lovett, A. S., chairman executive committee, Union Pacific 104,104.16 Lyford, Will H., general counsel to receiver, Chicago ft Eastern Illinois 24.040.00 McAllister, Henry, Jr., general counsel, Denver ft Rio Grande 55,000.00 McCabe, D. T., vice-president, Pennsylvania 30,000.00 McChesney, W. S., president Terminal Railroad Association, St. Louis 22.450.00 McCormack, E. O., vice president of traffic, Southern Pacific 30,200.00 McDonald, A. D„ vice-president and controller, Southern Pacific 26,250.00 McDonald, Morris, preisdent, Maine Central 35,735.12 McGonagle, Wiliam A., president and general manager, Duluth, Missabe ft Northern 21,000.00 McKeen B., vice-president, Pennsylvania Lines . 25,020.00 McKenna, E. W., member conference committee, Chicago, Milwaukee ft St. Paul 20,000.00 Maher, N. D., vice-president of operations, Nbrfolk ft Western 36,350.00 Markham, C. H., president, Illinois Central 60,555.00 Martin W. L., vice-president and traffic manager, Minneapolis, St. Paul ft Sault Ste. Marie 20,160.00 Middleton, J. A., vice-president, Lehigh Valley 30,445.00 Minnis. James L., vice-president and general solicitor. Wabash 20,833.33 Digitized by VjOOQle

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32 The Railroad Telegrapher. Mudge, H. U., president, Denver ft Rio Grande 43,232.00 Myers, W. Heyward, vice-president, Pennsylvania 25,000.00 Noonan, William T., president, Buffalo, Rochester ft Pittsburgh 50.000.00 O'Brien, Boardman, Harper ft Fox, counsel, Pennsylvania 26.600.00 Pardee, Dwight W., secretary. New York Central 21,500.00 Patterson, G. S., general solicitor, Pennsylvania 30,000.00 Platt, H. V., vice-president and general manager, Union Pacific 20,000.00 Pearson, Edw. J., president, New York, New Haven ft Hartford 40,000.00 Peck, G. L., fourth vice-president, Pennsylvania 30,030.00 Pennington, E., president, Minneapolis, St Paul ft Sault Ste. Marie 52.723.34 Peters, Ralph, president. Long Island 30,470.00 Pierce, Winslow S., general counsel, Wabash 24,000.00 Place, Ira A., vice-president. New York Central Lines 35,150.00 Potter, Mark W., president, Carolina, Clinchfield ft Ohio 20,000.00 Randolph, Epes, president, Arizona Eastern 26,465.00 Rea, Samuel, president, Pennsylvania 76,460.00 Reed, J. H., president and director, Bessemer ft Lake Erie 23.562.00 Rtdgway, A. C., vice president, Chicago, Rock Island ft Pacific 25,390.00 Rine, E. M., vice-president and general manager, Delaware, Lackawanna ft Western 33,373.33 Ripley, Ed. P., president, Atchison, Topeka ft Santa Fe 75,400.00 Robertson, Alexander, vice-president, Missouri Pacific 25,869.55 Rod, Thomas, chief engineer, Pennsylvania Lines West.. 21,080.00 Ross, Walter L., president and receiver, Toledo, St. Louis ft Western 25.090.00 Ruhlender, Henry, chairman board of directors, St. Louis ft San Francisco. . 40,000.00 Runnels, John S., president, Pullman Co 60,500.00 Russell, Henry, vice-president, Michigan Central 20.095.00 Schaff, Charles E., receiver and president, Missouri, Kansas ft Texas 43,000.00 Schoomaker, J. M., vice president, Pennsylvania.. 25,000.00 Schumaker, Thomas M., president, El Paso ft Southwestern 60,150.00 Scott, W. B., president Morgan’s Louisiana ft Texas Railroad ft Steamship 27,245.00 Segar, C. B., vice-president and comptroller, Union Pacific 37,016.87 Sewall, E. D., vice-president, Chicago, Milwaukee ft SL Paul...*. 20.160.00 Seymour, M. V., counsel St. Paul Union Depot 27,000.00 Scott, William R., vice-president and general manager, Southern Pacific 23,766.67 Shriver, G. M., vice-president, Baltimore ft Ohio 30,250.00 Sloan, George T., first vice-president. Northern Pacific 35,120.00 Smith, A. H., president, New York Central 78,360.00 Smith, Milton H., president, Louisville ft Nashville 20,639.09 Spence, L. F., director of traffic, Southern Pacific 36,525.00 Spencer, O. M., general counsel, Chicago, Burlington ft Quincy 27.123.28 Sproule, William, president, Southern Pacific 62,036.67 Stevens, George W., president, Chesapeake ft Ohio 31.873.26 Stone, A. J., vice-president, Erie 29.070.00 Storey, W. B., vice-president, Atchison, Topeka ft Santa Fe 32,950.00 Strong, A. H., general attorney, Pennsylvania 20,000.00 . Slade, George T., first vice-president, Northern Pacific 35,120.00 Tatnall, Henry, vice-president, Pennsylvania 35,200.00 Taylor, Edw. B., vice president, Pennsylvania Lines West 31.235.00 Thomas, E. B., chairman of board, Lehigh Valley 60,880.00 Thompson, Arthur W., vice-president Baltimore ft Ohio 30.510.00 Todd, Percy R., president Bangor ft Aroostook 30,395 00 Trabue, Doolan ft Cox, district attorneys for Kentucky, Illinois Central... 27.720 00 Trusdale, William H., president, Delaware, Lackawanna ft Western 75,399.88 Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 33 Trumbull, Frank, chairman of board, Chesapeake & Ohio 26,738.97 Turner, James J., senior vice-president, Pennsylvania Lines West 40,620.00 Underwood, F. D., president and chairman executive committee, Erie 77,950.00 UUey, E. H., vice-president and general manager, Bessemer & Lake Erie. . 20,867.12 Warfield, S. Davies, chairman of board, Seaboard Air Line 50,000.00 Waterhouse, Frank, foreign freight agent. Union Pacific 24,000.00 Williams, W. N., vice-president, Delaware & Hudson 20,636.66 Williams, Henry R., vice-president, Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul 31,117.00 Winbura, W. A., president, Central of Georgia 21,855.00 Wiucheli, B. L., director of traffic. Union Pacific 36,000.00 Woodworth, James G., second vice-president. Northern Pacific 22,500.00 Worcester, H. A., vice-president and general manager, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St Louis 22,395.00 Young, J. H., president and director, Norfolk Southern 26,020.00 HcKenney & Flannery, solicitors, Pennsylvania 21,250.00 Mr. Chairman, these general officers and attorneys no doubt include men from all valks of life. No doubt many of them have worked their way up by sheer merit and indefatigable industry, and I have nothing but words of praise for them as cltl» tens of our Republic, and I do not care how much compensation they may receive for their services from those who are most interested in their services in the way o! financial rewards — the stockholders. But I do emphatically protest against any compensation in excess of |20,600 per annum to any oflicial, attorney, or receiver Jl any railroad being charged up as operating expenses. There is not a public official of the United States or any state or city in the United States, except the President, that receives an annual compensation of $20,000 .111 public officials, except the Judiciary, have limited terms of office and incur much necessary expenses, due to being such public officials. In contrast, these railroad officials hold office practically for life, if not for one railroad it is for another, and all expenses incurred by them in the discharge of their duties is paid by the rail- roads and charged up to operation expenses. The officials whether traveling as offi- cials or as private citizens, get free transportation by way of exchange of courtesies from all railroads in (he United States, as do their families. These free services an not be extended to other public officials. These free services to these railroad ifficials are no doubt highly prized by them and makes the compensation they re- vive additionally remunerative. At this time these railroads are asking the favor of being permitted to fund certain of their indebtedness to the Government and for loans in addition, and for a taaranty by way of continuation of the standard return rental after the roads are 3c longer under Federal control. All of which favors, if granted, must to some extent constitute a burden to the taxpayers. Therefore 1 feel that we should in this bill reduce the expenses of operation as much as we can without doing an injustice to anyone, and by so doing not in any way cripple the service o{ the railroads. Suffrage Excercised on the Pennsylvania Lines East For many years the right to legislate for our members employed on the Penn* sylvania Railroad East of Pittsburgh and Erie has been denied to our organization &nd committee. A dual organization which was promoted under peculiar circumstances on (bat railroad, fias claimed the exclusive jurisdiction to negotiate wage agreements &&d rules governing working conditions. It has been the contentions of the officers of The Order of Railroad Telegraphers that the employes wanted our Order to Digitized by Google

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34 The Railroad Telegrapher. represent them. However, the minority has continued to represent the majority in a la Alsace-Lorraine style for several years. The claims advanced by General Chairman J. F. Miller that our Order represented more than seventy-five per cent of the employes coming under the provisions of Supplement No. 13 to General Order 27 have been vindicated by the ballot cast at the election held among these employes during the month of December, by order of the Railroad Administration, in order to ascertain which organization the more than five thousand employes desired to represent them in the handling of schedule negotiations and grievances. The follow- ing tabulated vote indicates the result of the fight the Order of Railroad Telegraphers has waged for more than twelve years on this system of railroads has been worth while: Division. No. Voting. ORT. ORSA. ORTDA&S. MBA. ATDA, BLKS. Williamsport 260 225 27 7 7 Middle 233 173 8 51 . . 1 Cresson 114 78 31 2 3 New York 323 217 42 59 4 Schuylkill ....... 115 87 18 1 * 8 1 Alleghany 286 227 41 16 1 Delaware 258 247 6 3 2 P T 240 152 4 62 22 Baltimore 292 273 4 11 . . 4 Renovo 226 186 32 3 1 4 Pittsburgh 384 297 67 17 1 2 Monongahela 108 72 31 4 1 "PO” Gen.-Rly.... 52 34 l 17 2 “WSM BFO Ofc . . . 8 6 . . 2 . . Juniata 20 13 7 . . Manhattan 13 1 1 3 1 7 Elmira 214 182 28 2 2 Maryland 338 282 31 16 9 Trenton 366 329 14 19 4 N. Y. P. & N 99 85 5 6 1 2 Buffalo 259 220 13 22 4 Philadelphia 406 262 84 45 1 14 Tyrone 131 111 14 4 2 Sunbury 191 143 30 10 ' 8 W. J. & S 339 316 12 6 1 5 Conemaugh 201 142 42 11 2 •• 4 Totals 5,475 4,360 593 398 12 5 112 ORT — Order of Railroad Telegraphers. ORSA — Order of Railroad Station Agents. ORTDA&S — The Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Dispatchers, Agents and Signal- men. MBA — Pennsylvania Railroad Mutual Benefit Association. ATDA — American Train Dispatchers’ Association. The Co-Workers* Fidelity Organization received one vote. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 65 A. Menace to Americanism Bepresentatlve Martin Davey, of Ohio, has introduced a bill which he claims is a forty-four, double-barrel, high-power gun aimed at the radicals, American or foreign It is stated this bill was introduced at the earnest solicitation of Attorney General Aimer; in fact, Davey claims Mr. Palmer drafted the bill, and one is not surprised tint such is the case, because it has the sound of Pennsylvania junkerism all through it It even has the odor of the steel trust escaping from each sentence. We are not surprised nor disappointed at anything Mr. Palmer may suggest or endeavor to have enacted into a law. His high-handed actions during the past few weeks in connection with “Government by injunction” in the miners' strike, also his glowing promises to the American public that he would bring the cost of living down, while the fact remains the cost of nearly all necessities continue to mount up- ward and his recent plunge after the so-called foreign radicals for deportation on the "Ark” and his now presumptious action to secure a jail sentence for the so-called American radical is his latest “flyer.” While it is true there are no doubt hundreds af foreign radicals in this country and no doubt just as many so-called radicals of American birth, that is no reason why we should enact laws that are un-American. Die millions of Americans are supporting America and her institutions with all of their power, and because they are not supporting Mr. Palmer and his actions in the coal strike and other matters, does he think they are against the American Govern- ment? No! the people are opposed to the autocrat of the various Government bureaus, and will continue to criticize them. Several bills are now pending in Congress in- tended to curb free speech and the press, under orders of the Postmaster General; In feet, giving to that individual the power of a czar — and unless the people exercise tome Influence with their representatives, one of these propositions may be enacted ■to law with all of its baneful influence. Did the Washington Government find it necessary to deport the Tories or use the iron hand against the freedom of the press or free speech? Did Lincoln find It necessary to deport anyone because they were opposed to the Government's actions? Why should the present Attorney General be granted powers to curb free speech md free government under the cloak of a seditionary law? There are sufficient laws on the statute books now to take care of anyone resisting Federal authority and it is quite evident the Attorney General has found that the present laws are adequate to give him ample power, to protect the Government at any and all times. Yet he is not satisfied, but desires, through the Davey bill, to repress straightforward and unbiased expressions of opinion from Americans — Americans whose fathers have fought in all the conflicts that have been waged since the Colonial days for freedom of speech and the right of the Individual to think for himself — the America that has been the haven of rest for the downtrodden, the land of plenty for all — the America that we have been taught to love and cherish — the America that was our father’s and mother’s garden of liberty and with freedom to worship as they pleased — now the America that is bein^ stultified by such unwarranted, pernicious, perverting and destructive legisla- tion as the Martin Davey bill. Every American who clings to the thought that this is and should be a government of the people, for the people, should immediately communicate with his represents tive in Congress, requesting that the Davey and all other similar bills be rejected. Digitized by Googk

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36 The Railroad Telegrapher. Labor and Its Grievances On December 13, 1919, more than one hundred and twenty presidents and secre- taries of International Unions affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, and officers of the four Train Service Brotherhoods and representatives of many Farmers’ Organizations convened in Washington, D. C., at the call of the Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor for the purpose of looking squarely in the face of the many complex matters confronting labor. The conference represented approximately five million organized workers, and the following declarations of principles were adopted: We speak in the name of millions who work — those who make and use tools — these who furnish the human power necessary for commerce and industry. We speak as part of the nation and of those things of which we have special knowledge. Our we fare and interest are inseparably bound up with the well-being of the nation. We are an integral part of the American people and we are organized to work out the welfare of all. The urgent problems that sorely trouble our nation and vitally affect us as work- ers make necessary this special consultation. • • • V The great victories for human freedom must not have been won in vain. They must serve as the instruments and the inspiration for a greater and nobler freedom for all mankind. Autocratic, political and Corporate industrial and financial influences in our coun- try have sought, and are seeking, to infringe upon and limit the fundamental rights of the wage-earners guaranteed by the constitution of the United States. Powerful forces are seeking more and more aggressively to deny to wage-earners their right to cease work. We denounce these efforts as vicious and destructive of the most precious liberties of our people. The right to cease work — strike — as a final means of enforcing justice from an autocratic control of industry, must be main- tained. The autocratic attitude and destructive action of the United States Steel Corpor* aiion and its subsidiary branches to oppress the workers by denying them the exercise of their freedom of action, freedom of association, freedom of expression, must give way to a better understanding and relation and to secure the wage-earners in the ex- ercise of their rights and liberties as free workers and citizens. We realize fully all that is involved in the exercise of the right to strike, but cnly by the exercise of that right can industrial autocrats be compelled to abandon their tyranny and give way to the establishment of freedom and justice in indhstry. American Labor sets for itself the task, gladly and proudly assumed, to preserve and perpetuate this standard of justice and measure of liberty. * * * We protest against the attitude and action of the majority of the representatives of the employers In the employers’ group who participated in the President’s Indus- trial Conference October 6-23, 1919. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 37 The proposals which the representatives of labor submitted to that conference were conservative, constructive and helpful. They were calculated to establish a working basis for the promotion of better relations between employers and workers —the right to organize, the right to collective bargaining through representatives of the workers' own choosing. The* representatives of the public constituted as a group endorsed and voted for that principle. By a small majority the employers' group voted against it, and thus the proposals were defeated and the conference failed. • ' • • / The protection of the rights and interests of wage-earners in national, state and municipal service requires for them the right of organization. Since the interests of these workers can be best promoted through legislation and administration, their right to organization and affiliation with the American Federation of Labor must at all times be fully safeguarded. * * * The paramount issues that concern all the people of the United States, and in particular the wage-earners, are the perversion and the abuse of the writ of injunction and the necessity for full and adequate protection of the voluntary associations of wage-earners organized not for profit. Government by injunction has grown out of the perversion of the injunction process. By the misuse of that process workers have been forbidden to do those things which they have a natural and constitutional right to do. The injunction as now used is a revolutionary measure which substitutes gov- ernment by judicial discretion or bias for government by law. It substitutes a trial by one man, a‘ judge, in his discretion, for a trial by jury. This abuse of the in- junctive process undermines and destroys the very foundations of our free institu- tions. It is subversive of the spirit of a free people working out their destiny in an orderly and rational manner. Because we have reverence for law, because we believe that every citizen must to guardian of the heritable given us by our fathers who fought for and established freedom and democracy, by every lawful means we must resist the establishment of a practice that would destroy the very spirit of freedom and democracy. Our protest against the abuse of the writ of injunction and its unwarranted application to Labor In the exercise of Labor's normal activities to realize laudable aspirations Is a duty we owe to ourselves and to posterity. Formerly injunctions issued in labor disputes were of a prohibitive character. Within the recent past this abuse of the injunction writ has been enlarged to include mandatory orders whereby men have been compelled to do specific things which they have a lawful right to refrain from doing. We declare these abuses in the exercise of the injunction writ are clearly viola- tive of the constitution and that this issue must be determined definitely in accordance with the guarantees of the constitution of the United States. * * * Workers are free citizens, not slaves. They have the constitutional right to cease working. The strike is a protest against autocratic management. To penalize Digitized by Google

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38 The Railroad Telegrapher. strikes or to make them unlawful is to apply an unwarrantable and destructive method when a constructive one is available. To reduce the necessity for strikes, the cause should be found and removed. The government has a greater obligation fn this matter than to use its coercive powers. Legislation which proposes to make strikes unlawful or to compel the wage- earners to submit their grievances or aspirations to courts or to governmental agen- cies, is an invasion of the rights of the wage-earners, and when enforced, makes for industrial serfdom or slavery. We hold that the government should supply information, assistance and counsel, but that it should not attempt by the force of its own power to stifle or to destroy voluntary relations and policies of mutuality beween employers and employes. We specifically denounce the antistrike provisions of the Cummins bill and ail similar proposed legislation as un-American, as being vicious in character, and estab- lishing by legislation involuntary servitude. • • • The warning given by Jefferson that the danger to the people of this Republic lies in the usurpation by. our judiciary of unconstitutional authority, has been fully demonstrated. A judiciary unresponsive to the needs of the time, arrogating to Itself powers which neither the constitution nor the purpose of our laws have con- ferred upon them, demands that at least in our time Americans must insist upon safeguarding their liberties and the spirit of the sacred institutions of our Republic.' We urge that the judges of our federal courts shall be elected by the people for terms not exceeding six years. We assert that there can not be found in the constitution of the United States or in the discussions of the congress which drafted the constitution any authority for the federal courts of our country to declare unconstitutional any act passed by Congress. We call upon the people of our country to demand that the Congress of the United States shall take action for the purpose of preventing the federal courts from continuing the usurpation of such authority. * * • We declare that the voluntary organizations of the workers, organized not for profit, are agencies of human progress and promote justice in industry and trade. Despite legislative declarations that trade unions do not come under the provisions of antitrust legislation, courts have not understood and are not now able or willing to understand that the organizations of wage-earners are not conspiracies in restraint of trade. We submit that antitrust legislation has not only been interpreted to serve the purpose of outlawing trade unions, robbing them of their treasuries and the savings of their members and depriving them of their legal and natural rights to the exercise of normal activities, but that it has also failed completely to protect the people against the outrageous machinations of combinations and monopolies. The United Mine Workers of America did all in their power to avert an indus- trial controversy in the coal industry. The autocratic attitude of the mine owners was responsible for the losses and sufferings entailed. While the miners have re- Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Kail road Telegrapher. 39 turned to the mines and have only now been afforded the opportunity of having their grievances and demands brought to the light of reason, it is our hope that a full measure of justice will be accorded them even at this late date. * * • There is a widespread belief that wages should be fixed on a cost-of-living basis. This idea is pernicious and intolerable. It means putting progress in chains and liberty in fetters. It means fixing a standard of living and a standard of life and liberty which must remain fixed. America's workers can not accept that proposition. They demand a progressively advancing standard of life. They have an abiding faith in the better future for all mankind. They discard and denounce a system of fixing wages solely on the basis of family budgets and bread bills. Workers are en- titled not only to a living, but modern society must provide more than what is under- stood by the term “a living.” It must concede to all workers a fairer reward ^for their contribution to society, a contribution without which a progressing civilisation is impossible. • * * No factor contributes more to industrial unrest and instability than excessive cats of necessaries of life. It is a demonstrated truth that the cost of living has, advanced more rapidly than have wages. The claim that increasing wages make necessary increased prices is false. It is intended to throw upon the workers the Name for a process by which all the people have been made to suffer. Labor has been compelled to struggle desperately to keep wages in sbme measure up to the cost of living. The demand for higher compensation to meet new price levels has made industrial readjustment necessary. Existing high and excessive prices are due to the present inflation of money and credits, to profiteering by those who manufacture, sell and market products, and to burdens levied by middlemen and speculators. We urge: The deflation of currency; prevention of hoarding and unfair price fixing; estab- lishment of co-operative movements operated under the Rochdale system; making accessible all income tax returns and* dividend declarations as a direct and truthful means of revealing excessive costs and profits. The ideal of America should be the organization of industry for service and not for profit alone. The stigma of disgrace should attach to every person who profits unduly at the expense of his fellow men. * • • Labor is fully conscious that the world needs things for use and that standards of life can improve only as production for use and consumption increases. Labor is anxious to work out better methods for industry and demands it be assured that increased productivity will be used for service and not alone for profits. Wage-earners aspire to be something more than numbers on the books of an industrial plant, something more than attendants of a machine, something more than cogs In an industrial system dominated by machinery owned and operated for profit alone. T{ie workers insist upon being masters of themselves. Labor understands fully that powerful interests today are determined to achieve Digitized by VjOOQle

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40 The Railroad Telegrapher. reaction in industry if possible. They seek to disband or cripple the organizations of workers. They seek to reduce wages and thus lower the standard of living. They seek to keep free from restriction their power to manipulate and fix prices. They seek to destroy the democratic impulse of the workers which is bred into their move* ment by the democracy of the American Republic. Labor must be and is militant in the struggle to combat these sinister influences and tendencies. Labor will not permit a reduction In the standard Of living. It will not consent to reaction toward autocratic control. In this it is performing a publie service. Qnly in high-wage countries is productivity in industry greatest Only in high* wage countries do the people enjoy high standards of living. Low-wage countries present the least degree of productivity and offer to their people only low standards of living and restricted liberies. Autocracy always insists upon restricting the in come and the activities of workers. Creative power lies dormant where autocratic management prevails. No em- ployer has a vested right to the good will of his employes. That must be earned, as between men. It can be earned only when management deals with workers as human beings and not as machines. There can not be a full release of productive energy under an autocratic control of industry. There must be a spirit of co-operation and mutuality between employers and workers. We submit that production can be en- hanced through the co-operation of management with the trade union agencies which make for order, discipline and productivity. We hold that the organization of wage-earners into trade unions and the estab- lishment of collective bargaining are the first steps toward the proper development of our industrial machinery for service. To promote further the production of an adequate supply of the world’s needs for use and higher standards of life, we urge that there be established co-operation between the scientists of industry and the representatives of organized workers. * • • Credit is the life blood of modern business. At present under the control of private financiers it is administered, not primarily to serve the needs of produc- tion, but the desire of financial agencies to levy a toll upon community activity as high as “the traffic will bear.” Credit is inherently social. It should be accorded in proportion to confidence In production possibilities. Credit as now administered does not serve industry but burdens it. It increases unearned incomes at the expense of earned incomes. It Is the center of the malevolent forces that corrupt the spirit and purpose of industry. We urge the organization and use of credit to serve production needs and not to increase the incomes and holdings of financiers. Control over credit should be taken from financiers and should be vested in a public agency, able to administer this power a3 a public trust in the interests of all the people. • • * Since the government has not worked out a constructive railroad policy, we urge for and on behalf of the railway workers and of the general public, that the railroads Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 41 be retained under government administration for at least two years after January 1 , 1920, in order that a thorough test may be made of government operation under nor- mal conditions. The common carriers of this country are the arteries of travel, com- merce and industry. Transportation service and rates are intimately bound up with industrial production in all parts of the country. It is essential that a thorough test be given to all phases of railroad control and operation before a definite peace- time policy be finally concluded. • * * Never has the world been confronted with a more serious situation. Millions are in want, facing starvation. The children of war-stricken Europe, half fed, under- developed, appeal for help. Only with infinite pain, unnecessary loss of life and slowness of result can Europe rebuild her industries, restore her agriculture, and re- establish her commerce, without the help of America. The treaty setting forth the terms of peace has not been ratified by the United States. Boundaries are not fixed. Peoples are uncertain as to their allegiance. Under such conditions exchange and credit have lost voltage and in turn have par- alysed industry. As members of an organized labor movement that has for years maintained fra- ternal relations with the working people of Europe, we feel that our nation can not with honor and humanity maintain a policy of isolation and disinterestedness from the distress and suffering of the people of Europe. Even if the necessity of the peo- ples of Europe did not have a compelling appeal, the interrelated economic interests of the world would prevent our limiting our attention solely to this hemisphere. The Peace Treaty includes provisions in an international agreement to prevent war among nations, with all its cruelties and sacrifices of human life, with its burden on Indebtedness and taxation; for reduction in standing armies, the diminution of great navies, and the limitation of the production of arms and ammunition. If the Senate shall fail to ratify the treaty of Versailles, our nation may be isolated from other countries of the world which at some time might be pitted against us. Such isolation and possibilities would make necessary the creation and maintenance of a large standing army and a greater and more effective navy in order in some degree to protect the Republic of the United States from aggression by those countries which were our allies in the great war, and which were and are now our friends. In addition, the workers df America have a deep interest and concern in the Labor Draft Convention of the Treaty and in its purpose to raise to a higher standard the conditions of life and labor among the peoples of all countries. Its cardinal declarations and provisions are, that labor should not be regarded as a commodity; that the eight-hour day and forty-eight-hour week are standard; that there shall be one day of rest, preferably Sunday, in each week; that child labor shall be abolished, and continuing education for young workers assured; that men and women shatl receive equal pay for equal work; that industrial betterments shall be enforced by proper Inspection, in which women as well as men shall take part; that wages shall be sufficient to maintain a reasonable standard of living, as this is understood in each time and country, and that employes as well as employers have the right of association for all lawful purposes. Digitized by VjOOQle

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42 The Railroad Telegrapher. The United States is protected by this draft convention in two ways: (1) That the recommendations which international labor conferences under the Treaty may recommend may be accepted or rejected by our government; (2) That no recom- mendation that would set a lower standard for the people of the United States than already exists within our borders can be at any time presented for consideration and action by the United States. To give the united support of our Republic and of the allied countries to effec- tive machinery to raise the standard of the workers' condition in backward countries, to help humanize industry for the common world weal, is, we insist, a paramount duty which our Republic must perform. We insist, for the reasons herein set forth, that it is the immediate duty of the Senate to ratify the Treaty of Versailles. • • • The American labor movement resents the attempt of reactionaries and autocrats to classify the men and women of Labor with those groups which have nothing in common with its constructive purposes and high ideals, and with the fundamental principles of our country. Those who aim to strike a blow against the legitimate aspirations of the workers in their struggle for freedom and for a higher and a better life must be met and overcome. We call upon all those who contribute service to society in any form to unjte in the furtherance of the principles and purposes and for the rectification of the grievances herein set forth. We call especial attention to the fact there is a great community of interest between all who serve the world. All workers, whether of the city or country, mine or factory, farm or transportation, have a common path to tread and a common goal to gain. The issues herein enumerated require the action of our people upon both the economic and political field. We urge that every practical action be taken by the American Federation of Labor, with the co-operation of all other organized bodies of workers, farmers and sympathetic, liberty-loving citizens of the United States, to carry into effect the principles and purposes set forth in the declarations of this con- ference. We call upon all to join with us in combating the forces of autocracy, industrial and political, and in the sublime task of ridding the world of the power of those who but debase its processes and corrupt its functions. In all struggles for justice and human freedom, sacrifices have been made. Having made supreme sacrifices to crush militarism and political autocracy in Europe, America's workers will not surrender to political and industrial autocracy at home. In the struggle now before us, we will contest every effort made to fasten tyranny and injustice upon the people of our Republic. We are confident that freedom, justice and the opportunity for a better day and higher life shall be achieved. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 43 Federal Commission on Coal Mining By Samuel Gompers. The object of the miners In seeking to reduce the hours of work was to insure more days of work and steadier employment The six-hour day, five-day week and sixty per cent increase in wages were considered necessary to permit the miner to lire as he should. They were what the miner knew he ought to have. But they were his extreme demands and subject to change or compromise. It always has been a practice of both the miners and operators when meeting in joint conference to pre- sent demands to each other. These sometimes went to the very extreme. But nego- tiations brought about compromises which always were more modest than the orig- • inal demands of both. But in the present controversy the operators refused to negotiate a new agree- ment They contended that an agreement entered into with them and the miners and the government would not expire until March, 1920, or until the war ended, and no consideration of a new wage-scale would be considered before that time. The miners, however, contended, and justly, that the war was over. This was proved by the withdrawal of the government from the tri-party agreement. The agreement contained provisions that in many districts under certain conditions dif- ferences between the operators and miners should be referred to the fuel administra- tor. He had closed his office after removing all price restrictions for coal. This left the operators at liberty to charge whatever they chose. This was considered positive evi- dence the war had ended so far as the tri-party agreement was concerned. The miners then asked for changes in wages and working conditions. It was then they were told the war had not ended. And the operators refused absolutely to negotiate a new agreement. Then the fuel administrator was resuscitated. That Puel Administrator Garfield’s proposed Increase in the wages of miners could not be justified can best be judged by the offer made previously by the coal operators. November 21 the operators voluntarily offered an increase in wages of 20 per cent. Secretary of Labor Wilson, whose practical knowledge of mining fitted him par- ticularly for adjusting the dispute on a fair basis, suggested an increase of 31 per cent This was agreed to by the representatives of the miners. Then the fuel ad- ministrator refused to consider either Secretary of Labor Wilson’s figures or those of the coal operators themselves and arbitrarily declared that only a 14 per cent advance would be permitted. He said the miners could have the increase without passing it on to the consumer. This was a confession that the operators were profiteering. The acute stage of the miners’ struggle for an adequate wage and proper hours of work was passed, but the question in its broader phases still is at issue by reason of the federal investigation undertaken at the direction of the President It is there- fore fitting at this time to present a full statement of the reasons underlying the action of the miners. That the miners were correct in their stand that the war is over can best be substantiated by the statement of President Wilson in his veto message on the prohi- bition bill. In giving his reason for vetoing the bill, the President said: Digitized by VjOOQle

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44 The Railroad Telegrapher. I object to and cannot approve that part of this legislation with reference to war time prohibition. It has to do with the enforcement of an act which was passed by reason of the emergencies of the war and whose objects have been satisfied in the demobilization of the army and navy and whose repeal I have already sought at the hands of Congress. There could be no higher authority to corroborate the belief of the miners that, the war was ended. During the war the wages of the miners were, of course, increased. They ranged between $1,200 and $1,300 a year. These figures are official reports of vari- ous state bureaus. Before the war the wages ranged from $600 to $800. For many years the earnings annually in Illinois, according to the State Bureau of Labor Statistics, were in the neighborhood of $520. Miners work by the ton. No matter how many days a week they work they are paid for the number of tons of coal they mine. The wages paid the miners average 84 cents a ton. Out of this they must buy the powder they use to break the coal. They must furnish the tools with . which they work, and must pay the blacksmith for sharpening them. They must pay the check weighman who weighs the coal they mine. The lamps they wear while underground they must pay for. If the mine is filled with gas they must rent safety lamps from the operators. .They must not only break the coal, but must load it in cars and pay all the side charges mentioned out of their 84 cents. A handy man in Washington is paid $1 for carrying a ton of coal into a shed or baseinent a short distance from the street. In some states a miner must work two years before the law permits him to take charge of a “room/’ Which industry in the United States charges the employe for the light he uses? And on tcp cf all these grievances the miner works underground in all kinds of foul air and dangerous gases, and suffers inconveniences and hardships unknown to those employed on the surface. These conditions surrounding the work of a miner were not imported from any foreign country. They are strictly American conditions. Alabama and West Virginia operators refused to permit miners to return to work because they were members of the union. That was a subterfuge, as the oper- ators undoubtedly desired to reduce the production of coal. The miners declare they have given Attorney General Palmer an abundance of proof that sabotage is being practiced by the operators. Many affidavits have been filed with him. Large Ala- bama companies are involved. So far there is no record of any prosecution against these offenders. Collective bargaining has been followed since 1898. The operators and miners met annually or bi-annually in conference, and agreed upon wages and working condi- tions. These contracts were solemnly carried out by the miners. Non-union men profit from the wage agreements made by the miners. After every settlement the miners in the unorganised fields were given practically the same wages as the union miners, which means that the union miners represent the unorganized. The recent strike is the first nation-wide movement undertaken since the joint trade agreement was made in 1898. Several times heretofore the miners suspended operations until a new wage agreement was made, but never before did they go on a nation-wide strike. The suspensions which occurred were agreed to by the oper- Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 45 Hors. Whether the operators used them to increase the price of coal is best an- swered by themselves. It is certain, however, that the price of coal always increased during and after these suspensions. Even during the recent strike the union supplied men to man the pumps and to do such other work about the mines as would prevent them from being flooded or damaged in any way. In fact, the mines are in as good condition for work since •ettlement as they were before the strike began. The joint trade agreement in force since 1898 is now dead. It was killed by the operators. They repudiated it and that was the reason for the recent situation. That the miners have the interests of the people most at heart can best be proved by the action of the miners in great crises. When the anthracite miners were on strike, the soft coal operators offered bonuses to the miners to induce them to mine more coal. The union refused to permit the members to accept a bonus. The reason risen was that a certain wage had been agreed to and should not be changed for the selfish profiteering of the operators. The latters saw a chance to sell more coal at in- creased prices, for where five cents a ton is given as a bonus an increase of from 25 to 40 cents a ton is added to the price of coal. Before the anthracite strike of coal miners children between eight and twelve years of age were employed in the mines as breaker-boys. As a result of that strike a law was passed prohibiting the employ- ment of children as breaker-boys in the anthracite regions. The public has been led to believe that where a miner works six hours a day he would receive the same wages he formerly had been paid for an eight-hour day. The fact that he Is a piece-worker is sufficient answer to this. But it naturally follows that a miner can load more coal per hour In a six-hour day than in an eight-hour day. What difference does it make to the public how many hours a day a miner works if a sufficient amount of coal is mined to supply the wants of the public? The methods of mining in all parts of the United States have been criminal. Coal nflnlng is the worst managed of any industry. It has little regard for the lives and limbs of the miners. Only after great disasters have miners been able to secure passage of beneficial and remedial laws. These laws were fought most bitterly by the operators, who tried to deceive the public into believing the laws were against the public interests. Every law on the statute books secured by thp miners seeks the protection of life and limb, yet these efforts were opposed most strenuously by the operators. The miner generally lives in isolated districts. In many cases he must walk long distances to work. Those who live in the cities in comfortable, steam heated houses, with running water, electric light and other conveniences do not realize the dis- comforts to which the miner is subject. It can be realized, therefore, that men who have worked in the mines for wages ranging from $500 to $800 a year, with the home inconveniences known only to those who live away from cities, can not justly be criticized when they ask for more wages. Every conceivable method of propaganda has been used to misrepresent and condemn the miners for seeking relief in these trying times, but the profiteers are just as dominant in the mining industry as in any other. Digitized by VjOOQle

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* Get the habit — purchase an annual card. The power of the union label is proved by its progress. Do your part to eliminate the non-mem* ber and make the organization solid be- fore the close of 19?0. One thousand two hundred and twenty new members were initiated into the Or- der during the month of December. Nearly twenty thousand new members were initiated into the Order during the year 1919 — and there are non-members left The mistress of the household repre- sents the “purchasing power/' She can- not go on strike, but she can obviate the necessity of striking by demanding the union label. The labor party in Great Britain is winning in places that have always been considered impregnable against labor candidates and it is predicted labor will soon control the English Government. According to income tax returns there are 20,000 persons in this country who are rated as millionaires. It is stated that during the four war years more than 12,000 new millionaires were created. Stated in concrete terms, the union la- bel is powerful because it accomplishes by peaceful means, with absolute certain- ty and at little cost, that which the strike and boycott seek to accomplish, al- ways at great cost and sacrifice. The union label is a weapon that profits the employer equally with the employe, but only so long as both aim at the same object. It can never he turned against the employe, because It is the latter's ex- clusive property, to be given or with- drawn at pleasure. The union label is the “In Hoc Signo Vinces" of the crusade to rescue the child from the workshop, factory and mill; the woman from the sweatshop and tenement house, and the millions of la- bor from the clutches of greed, degrada- tion and poverty. The union label is the unmistakable sign of practical co-operation between employer and employe. The demand for the union label completes the relation- ship necessary to the most effective prac- tice of co-operation by making the pur- chaser also a partner in the business. The union, label unites all interests that lie in the improvement of industrial conditions through the abolition of the sweatshop, tenement house, insanitary factory, convict labor, Chenese labor, night labor, and child labor. Each of these evils has its antidote in the union label. At a mass meeting of over 500 bank ac- countants, tellers, ledger keepers, clerks, stenographers, and messengers in Toron- to it was voted to organize and affiliate with the American Federation of Labor. The meeting was held in the labor tem- ple and was addressed by local trade unionists. As a move to lower the cost of living among its members, the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes and Rail- way Shop Laborers, the third largest of the railroad brotherhoods, announced the purchase of four clothing factories, from which goods will be sold at price reduc- tions ranging from 25 to 60 per cent. The transaction represents an investment of approximately $1,000,000. Digitized by VjOOQle ■1

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 47 It is stated that 6,400 Government em- ployes will be automatically retired on the passage of the Sterling-Lehlbach re- tirement bill, now pending in Congress, ud which is urged by organized Govern- ment employes. These employes have formed a committee in the interest of fois legislation. State regulation of the milk industry on the ground that it is a public utility of "infinitely more importance than the op- eration of transportation lines,” is among several far-reaching recommendations made to Governor Smith of New York by foe fair price milk committee, which has been investigating the high cost of milk. The President has signed the bill which increases compensation of dis- abled former service men and enlarges classes of beneficiaries under the war risk insurance act. Up to December 12 the war risk insur- ance bureau received 327,725 claims for compensation as a result of injuries re- ceived in line of duty. Of these 241,822 4a?e been definitely settled. New schedules have been reported on the Grand Rapids & Indiana; Gulf, Color- ado & Santa Fe Railroads; Union Ter- minal of Dallas, and the Denver Union Terminal. The closing of negotiations on the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad completes negotiations on the seventeen railroads comprising the Pennsylvania Unes West, according to statement is- sued by Chairman J. E. Hindmarch. "America does not have to be enslaved to be saved/* says The Railway Clerk, in discussing social conditions and their remedies. ‘There are enough real Americans to solve the many perplexing problems if they are permitted to do so in the good old-fashioned way. Tn the minds of the capitalists, an agi- tator is rfnyone who has the courage to speak the truth, join a labor union, strike tor higher wages or advocate anything tor the Interests of the public and against the Interests of the privileged class.** H. R Bill, No. 10373, introduced by General I. R. Sherwood, of Ohio, provides that all demobilized soldiers, sailors and marines, who served in the world war, shall receive a sum of five hundred dol- lars each, regardless of rank or kind of service. This bill is fostered by the Pri- vate Soldiers and Sailors’ Legion, whose national president is Marvin Gates Sper-. ry, Washington, D. C. It seems a fair consideration for those who fought for us. Reversing its stand taken during tl^e past three years, the industrial insurance commission of the state of Washington has ruled that henceforth workmen hav- ing claims under the workmen’s compen- sation act will be paid in full even if em- ployers in particular cases have also recompensed them for Injuries in acci- dents. The commission ruled previously that when employes had been compen- sated by their employers, the commission was not required to take further action. Dues in the Order and assessments on Mutual Benefit Department certificates for the term ending June 30 arc now due and payable . Time for payment expires on February 29, after which it will be necessary to secure reinstatement in the Mutual Benefit Department by certifying to good health . Punctuality denotes con- sideration of others, appreciation of the value of time , good business and good judgment. It increases valuation to oth- ers and insures the realization of success . The union label, symbolizing as it does the conditions which the union itself is established to secure and maintain, is proof that these conditions obtain in the making of the article upon which it ap- pears. Firm names, brands, trade-marks, and other devices by which products are advertised may lose their original sig- nificance through changes In the fortunes of those who own them. The union label, being owned by the union and subject ex- clusively to its control, represents the same thing always, namely, fair wages and hours, clean workshops, and good workmanship. . Digitized by VjOOQle

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48 The Railroad Telegrapher. Work of perfecting plans for “I Won’t- Pay-It Clubs” as a state-wide organiza*. tion were goings forward in the office of W. B. Barney, food and dairy commis- sioner of the state of Iowa. Barney pro- poses sending inspectors of his depart- ment to aid all parts of the state about the first of the year to discuss the cost of living and means of reducing prices, and organizing the women especially in the clubs which will be pledged not to pay exorbitant prices. The coal commission appointed by the President after the miners’ strike was declared off is holding sessions in Wash- ington, D. C. A study of the coal indus- try will be made, wages adjusted and other questions considered. The mem- bers of the commission are: Henry Rob- inson, California business man, repre- senting the public; John P. White, ex- president of the United Mine Workers, representing the miners, and Rembrandt Peale, Pennsylvania coal owner, repre- senting the coal owners. The cost of living has increased be- tween 80 and 85 per cent since the be- ginning of the war, in July, 1914, accord- ing to a report by the National Industrial Conference Board, which represents a score of employers’ associations of Bos- ton, Mass. Since the signing of the armistice prices of the necessities of life have gone up 10.4 per cent. There was a temporary recession immediately after the armi- stice, but in March prices began soaring again, and since then have scored a to- tal rise of 13.5. The schedule of in- creases for the little more than five-year period from July, 1914, to November, 1919, averages 82.2. A surprising number of American-born children are growing up illiterate — more of them in the country districts than in the cities — according to figures made public tonight by the Children’s Bureau of the Department of Labor. Statistics gathered in five states in which the employment of children is general, it was stated, show that out of 19,696 children between 14 and 16, more than one-fourth could not read or write their names legibly. Nearly 10 per cent had never gone beyond the first grade of school, and considerably more than half were in the fourth grade or lower when they left school. Only about 3 per cent got as far as the eighth grade, and about one in a hundred had reached high school. Jailing profiteers is no remedy for high prices, according to Dr. Royal Meeker, commissioner United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, who declared that the cause for present conditions lies far deeper than prices, and if it were possi- ble to suddenly reduce prices the whole structure would be endangered, with a possible financial panic. Among the reasons for high prices, said the Federal official, is an inflated curren- cy, an enormous national debt and the fact that people pay $2 for an article worth half that amount. “Increases in bank deposits the past two years have been so great that per- sons appear to be perfectly willing to spend $2 for an article worth half that amount. In this way currency or its cor- responding medium is unnecessarily in- flated.** Writing in the American Teacher, Florence C. Mortimer, vice-president of the Grade Teachers’ Union, Washington, D. C„ declares that if trade unionism had rendered no other service to humanity, it would have justified its existence by its efforts in behalf of women and chil- dren. “The chief effort of the trade unions in ameliorating the hardships of women’s work has been in the direction of exclud- ing them from certain kinds of employ- ment, in improving the sanitary condi- tions in which they work, and in reduc- ing the length of their working day. Thus women are no longer employed in mines, nor are they allowed to be em- ployed in trades which injure their health or seriously jeopardize their moral safety. The women themselves are rap- idly joining unions already formed and are also organizing into separate bodies.** Digitized by VjOOQle

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PERSONAL MENTION The following births have been report- ed since the last issue of The Teleg- rapher : To Bro. and Mrs. N. K. Williams, of Tercio, Colo., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Andy Moore, of Piittsmouth, Neb., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. A. Roach, of Bes* iemer, Mich., a boy. To. Bro. and Mrs. F. F. Leichner, of Winchester, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. N. E. Geist, of Wapa- nucka, Okla., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. F. Howe, of Shen- ango. Pa., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. L. R. Beeler, of Alto, Mkh., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. A. R. Littleton, of Albia, Iowa, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. I. C. Hall, of Park- ton, N. C., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. J. Perrault, of Farnbam, Que., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. M. Coleman, of Danville, Va., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. S. E. Whitehorn, of Jackson, Tenn., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. A. Morrison, of Pembroke, Ky., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. P. D. Phelps, of El Reno, Okla., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. C. Johnson, of Warwick, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. J. Harnage, of Eustis. Fla., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Ira B. Bates, of Smithville, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. H. J. Stratton, of Pittsburg, Kan., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. G. Reynolds, of Orchard Park, N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. C. E. Lewen, of Rosehill. Iowa, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. Fish, of Tesch, Mich., a girL To Bro. and Mrs. Ed Van Nostrand, of Springfield Garden, N. Y., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. M. Enochson, of Durbin, N. D., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. H. Andress, of Benonine, Texas, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. A. R. C. Hayworth, of Columbus, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. P. B. Mosher, of Chi- cago, 111., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. A. Vigeant, of Pejepscot Mills, Maine, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. W. A. Burgess, of Weyburn, Sask., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. P. Herrin, of Bur- roughs, Ga., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. James F. Gallagher, of Richfield Springs, N. Y., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Frank W. Pittman, of Blackwell, Okla., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E; L. Smith, of Huff, N. D., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. L. Long, of Wel- lington, Kans., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. H. O. Barbour, of Tulia, Texas, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Alf Moe, of Stanwood, Wash., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. R. B. Morgan, of Dearing, Ga., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. A. Wicker, of Au- gusta, Ga., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. M. S. Proctor, of Nada, Ky., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. D. A. Roebuck, of Cynthiana, Ky., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Marshall Foy, of Eunice, La., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. N. J. Etherton, of Famoso, Cal., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. C. O’Donald, Jr., of Andrews, S. C., a boy. The following marriages have been re- ported since the last Issue of The Teleg- rapher: At San Mateo, Fla., Bro. R. B. Turner, of Div. 160, to Miss Nina Ferrell. At Arkansas City, Kan., Bro. L. L. Digitized by Google

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50 Thk Kailboad Telegrapher. Thompson, of Div. 61, to Miss Lila Cog- ging At St. Guillaume, Que., Bro. L. L. Mer- cure, of Div. 7, to Miss L. Bisson. At Benwood, W. Va., Bro. Harold Sig- ler, of Div. 33, to Miss Mollie Clark. At New Rockford, N. D., Bro. J. E. Lohman, of Div. 70, to Miss Alma Sheer. At New Rockford, N. D., Bro. J. F. Haley, of Div. 70, to Miss Trudeau. At Lafayette, La., Bro. A. J. Mclntire, of Div. 52, to Miss Jeanie Mathews. At St. Louis, Mo., Bro. Clark Duncan, of Div. 31, to Miss Carrie Roberts. At Cincinnati, Ohio, Bro. Jim Malone, of Div. 33, to Miss Freida Doolittle. At Jacksonville, Fla., Bro. G. L. Killam, of Div. 15, to Miss Kirk. At Burlington, Kan., Bro. C. A. John- son to Sister Jennette M. Kirk, both of Div. 22. At Marshall, Okla., Bro. R. A. Crabs, of Div. 61, to Miss Essie Darling. At Houston, Texas, Bro. J. W. Wood, of Div. 166, to Miss Daisy Lea. At Eunice, La., Bro. A. K. Killings- worth, of Div. 166, to Miss Octa Culp. At Flaxton, N. D., Bro. Henry Roh- weder, of Div. 119, to Miss Gladys Har- non. At Westby, Mont., Bro. J. M. Roh- weder, of Div. 119, to Mrs. Geneva Love- lace Johnson. At Thief River Falls, Minn., Bro. Don- ald C. Paine, of Div. 119, to Miss Alice M. Du8sell. At Justiceburg, Texas, Bro. H. L. Hen- derson, of Div. 61, to Miss Winnie Knox. At Wrenshall, Minn., Bro. R. F. Wigg, of Div. 54, to Miss Gladys Caroline Bresloe. At Power, Mont., Sister Faye Younce, of Div. 70, to Mr. H. E. Bailey. At Flora, N. D., Sister Margaret Watt, of Div. 54, to Professor of Schools there. The Telegrapher extends congratula- tions to the happy couples. The following deaths have been re- ported since the last issue of The Telegrapher: Son of Bro. C. Webb, of Div. 68. Bro. Elmer Jacobitz, of Div. 76. Sister of Bro. J. J. Creighton, of Div. 76. Bro. W. R. Bennett, of Div. 40. Father of Bros. C. D. and F. F. Ruff, of Div. 17. Son of Bro. C. E. Nightengale, of Div. 17. Wife of Bro. M. A. Brian, of Div. 70. Daughter of Bro. W. F. Kenney, of Div. 184. Son of Bro. W. A. Moore, of Div. 32. Bro. John J. Collins, of Div. 130. Mother of Bro. J. B. Sebastian, of Div. 17. Bro. R. D. Pierson, of Div. 12. Bro. Ed. Howell, of Div. 8. Sister of Bro. P. Corblere, of Div. 7. Infant daughter of Bro. J. E. EL Au- clair, of Div. 7. Bro. Werner Von Winckler, of Div. 161. Father of Bro. W. H. Logan, of Div. 23. Bro. J. P. Kaiser, of Div. 33. Father of Bro. K. H. Compton, of Div. 58. Bro. John Collins, of Div. 130. Sister of Bro. W. S. Hallford, of Div. 15. Bro. W. A. McRay, of Div. 70. Wife of Bro. G. P. Gabeen, of Div. 183. Bro. I. H. Kramer, of Div. 61. Mother of Bros. J. N. and W. G. Elliott, of Div. 62. Mother of Bro. W. B. Richardson, of Div. 47. Sister of Bro. O. G. Hille, of Div. 47. Father of Bro. Carl Oliver, of Div. 62. Bro. W. R. Vance, of Div. 71. Father of Bro. W. H. Lamberth, of Div. 15. Bro. W. J. Miller, of Div. 33. Aunt of Sister and Brother Mock; also mother-in-law of Bro. W. F. Trumbull, all of Div. 70. Infant son of Bro. and Mrs. William Whitacre, of Div. 54. Mother of Bro. G. E. Darrow, of Div. 53. Father of Bro. Connie O'Donald, Jr., of Div. 28. The bereaved relatives have the sym- pathy of all. WANTED. Whereabouts of Robert McCulloch, for- merly with B Co., 8th Field Sig. Battalion in France. “Mack, if you see this write me." Digitized by Google

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The Bailboad Telegrapher. 51 Odell Helmeb, Care of J. M. Helmeb, Mitchell, Neb. Present address of M. Berry. Last heard of working for C. H. & D. “Mike, If yon see this write me.” EL J. Kortkz, Care of General Delivery, Ft. Smith, Ark. Present address of R. C. Brewer. Last heard of working for U. Pac., Manhattan, Kina. “ *B/ it you see this write me." Important. E. J. Kobtez, Care of General Delivery, Ft. Smith, Ark. Addresses of Bros. C. C. Ilgenfritz and J. W. Carr, who recently worked in “GO” office, Pittsburgh, Pa. “Ilgenfritz and John, if you see this please communicate with me immediately, as I have some im- portant information." F. L. Clinton, Local Chairman, “GO" Pittsburgh. Whereabouts of Theodore Bentley, son of Milton and Lucy Bentley. Last heard of In Ravenna, Ohio. L. H. Meacham, 1310 Michigan St., Toledo, Ohio. Whereabouts of Bro. Elmer Walter. Last heard of working on Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. H. E. Dixon, General Delivery, Lawrence, Mass. Present address of O. B. Handy. Im- portant news. J. C. Handy, 3740 South Wash St., Marion, Ind. LOST OR STOLEN. Annual Card No. 365, Cert. 351, Div. 61, for year 1920. Annual Card No. 944, Cert. 811, Div. 15, for year 1919. Card No. 32069, Cert. 5, Div. 61, for term ending December 31, 1919. Annual Card No. 3170, Cert. 74, Div. 16, for year 1919. Card No. 62259, Cert. 2192, Div. 33* for term ending December 31, 1919. Card No. 53317, Cert. 1161, Div. 11, for term ending December 31, 1919. Card No. 22208, Cert. 160, Div. 58, for term ending December 31, 1919. Card No. 27744, Cert. 882, Div. 39, for term ending December 31, 1919. Card No. 18796, Cert. 297, Div. 27, for term ending December 31, 1919. Card Case and Card, Cert. 6, Div. 183, for term ending December 31, 1919. Card No. 91, Cert. 3791, Div. 23, for term ending June 30, 1920. Digitized by VjOOQle

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WHAT CAN I DO? (By Kate E. Carr, President) With current high prices, oppression and crime waves feeding on an endless sup- ply of general hysteria, the much re- buked trade unionist is asking, “What can I do to stop it?" Verily, the ques- tion is a large one, big enough to hold the interest and enthuse the efforts of every conscientous auxiliary member for larger and better things. Summarily, we still have every oppor- tunity to carry out the lifetime program of organized labor, which, when generally applied, will remove the cause of such undesired phenomenon. First, agitate among your friends and neighbors with the ideas of true unionism, which are always educational. Second, study bills and referendums which will wprk for the betterment of conditions for workers, and then campaign whenever possible for their adoption. Third, vote for can- didates whom you have every reason to believe will work for your interests. And lastly practice co-operation with your fel- low workers in the home, in the union, and in the workshop. In promulgating an educational cam- paign we have three branches to be con- sidered, i. e., the press, the pulpit and the schools. Not considering the many books and pamphlets which might be more generally used to understand the labor movement. We have eight good labor daily newspapers printed in differ- ent sections of these United States. Take it upon yourself, Sister, to see that your, or your husband’s name appears on the subscription list of the paper printed nearest to you. If we are to have a strong labor press, the units of labor or- ganizations must support that press. If your news happens to be a day or more late, rest assured that you will be get- ting more facts for your money than you would by supporting some sheet of the kept press. Labor has not yet become popular to the extent that we can count, on any material support from the pulpit or the schools, but if you know of any isolated cases whereby you can encourage some loyal assistants in either of these for de- velopment, give them your support. Since we are now classed as voters in most states let us use the strength of our voice and ballot in supporting labor’s program. Study the bills that are before your state or national lawmakers and de- cide which will be beneficial to working men and women. Get signatures to peti- tions to be mailed oi* wired to your rep- resentative asking him or her to support the measures specified. Or better still, if you are in a community where women are studying legislative work, urge them to draft a bill that will helpfully effect some of your local labor troubles, and then try to keep the bill alive. In those states where you have the benefit of the referendum, get your local organization to draft, or have drafted, referendum measures and then be prepared to se- cure your quota of the necessary en- dorsing signatures to grant it space on your next ballots. And when it comes to voting, vote for labor candidates only. We have an overwhelming sufficiency of the other variety in office now. Let us lose no opportunity to practice co-operation of the variety that can net only good results for all concerned. Co- operate with auxiliary members of other crafts and trades, if your own are not Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. available, in starting a union label cam- paign in your community. The nearest Card and Label League will furnish you with particulars and instructions. Co- operate with local labor people in form- ing co-operative buying clubs if a store is not practical. Co-operate with your neighbors in establishing conditions that will not be affected by an uprising of hysteria, but will bring you closer to- gether in creating conditions that will make real democracy possible for all people. Next month and on each subsequent month I will amplify some phase of the above or similar subjects and I hope that the time is not far distant when we will have an auxiliary membership of “doers.” Will you be one? NOTES FROM LOCAL No. 49. Upon suggestions from one or two D. & R. G. sisters, I recently took upon my- self the organization of a local of the Ladies’ Auxiliary on Division 49, and a trip over a part of the First Division brought forth the necessary ten mem- bers to secure a charter and Local 49 is now a reality. Mrs. Laura B. Johnson, of Parkdale, has been appointed temporary president, and Mrs. Lula Challis, of Texas Creek, temporary General Secretary-Treasurer. At this writing we are proceeding with the election of a regular set of officers and the Local Chairmen of Division 49 have been furnished application blanks and asked to assist in securing members on their divisions of the system. In the organization of Local 49, we pre- dict qne of the liveliest locals to be found in the country, if the ladies on other di- visions of the road will take the interest I know cap be exerted by those on the First Division. The wives of O. R. T. members on the D. & R. G. should be equally interested with their husbands in O. R. T. affairs; we should be able to arrange joint O. R. T. and Ladies* Aux- iliary meetings, thereby increasing the social features of our organization. As I understand it the formation of Ladies’ Auxiliaries is to be asked of all labor organizations as we have many problems before us, and in union there is strength. To unite the relatives of the members of th^ Order of Railroad Telegraphers in bonds of sympathy and friendship, to promote social entertainment and to make our meetings more attractive so- cially is our goal. # May our predictions on the D. & R. G. be fulfilled. Application blanks may be secured from local chairmen. To our charter members may we say, make it your duty to see that Local 49 the banner local of the Ladies’ Auxiliary. F. B. ROSE, Asst. Loc. Chairman, First Div. Digitized by VjOOQle

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I Three Things. Only three things I ask of you, O World ! Only three things out of your plentltude. To Live : Not in some darkened hole a beast would shun, But in the open where the sunlight falls. Where I can hear the notes of music sound, Hear poets sing and little children laugh. Pass greeting with the other men ^rho live In the fair world that God and Man can make. To Labor: Not as a slave of lust, bestial and foul, With lash of hunger quivering on his back; But to go singing to the work I love. Knowing that I create a thing of need. Of joy or beauty. Touch with a comrade’s hand % My fellow workers in the market place. To Love: Not a slave of lust, bestial and foul. But cleanly as befits a man for whom A thousand centuries have travailed sore To b^Bur thro* agony a thing worth while, — A creature fit for his creative task. Give me these three, O World ! Give me these three! Life, Labor, Love; and I will hand Them on from life to life as flaming lights. To make earth brilliant for a million years. — By Elsib Jewett Webster. And still investigators try With all their little might To turn up facts that justify The beafsteak’s skyward flight. Each new report excels the last, But that don’t help a bit. For still beefsteak goes up so fast They can’t keep up with it ! — By James J. Montague, Washington Post The End. They say I’m too old to be useful, I’m known as common old scrap. Though I once was the pride of the Round- house, And always kept clear of mishap. They’ve stripped me of trappings and glitter ; They’ve left me a wreck by the way. Though I once held the recbrd for speed, sir, I’m nothing but old scrap today. 'Tis well I remember the morning I lost my old passenger run. And I had to make way for a rival — 'Twas clear my decline had begun. My pride got a terrible tumble. As friends so much fault with me found ; And the things Engineers said were frightful When hostlers brought me around. Investigations. When beaf steak soared to 40 cents The figures seemed so high That sundry Government gents Were told to find out why. And so they got expert advice And deep conclusions drew. But ere they turned them in, the price Had gone to forty-two. So that report was pigeonholed. And figures were adduced, Their purpose being to uphold The men who made the boost. But ere the learned gentlemen Their facts could demonstrate, The price of steak went up again — This time to forty-eight. Again the Governmental board Undaunted, sought to make It plain that people could afford A forty-eight-cent steak. But while they still were in the throes Of weighty arguments. The price of steak once more arose To fifty-seven cents. They sought something newer and faster. But I — I was clear out of date. And my place in the front ranks was taken — For me, it was nothing but freight From freight I was placed on a transfer. From there I was sent to the yard ; I was finally chased to the scrap heap— Old age, Sir, was hitting me hard. Still I’m not alone in my mourning, For others are going my way; Engineers once so youthful and active Are walking my footsteps today. Thus onward all go to’ard the scrap-heap While Youth take out place on the line ; For perpetual youth, with its vigor. Will never be yours, sir, nor mine. On life’s road the shadows grow deeper And darker on further, ’tis said ; As the years lead us on we’re reminded The scrap heap is always ahead. — ”NI,” Cert 1819, Div. 6. Digitized by Googk

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FACETIOUS The Stumbling Block. He: I can marry any girl I please. She: I suppose the difficulty comes in your pleasing any. Old Mirth in New Clothes. “I see they are putting turkeys on the fair price list.” *1 was afraid rather they would be fowl charges.” A Homeopathic Complaint “How is your shorthand department?” “Too much like itself.” “What do you mean?” “It’s short-handed.” — Baltimore Amer- ican. Wash in a Name. •See that boy over there? He’s nick- named Flannel.” “Oh, why’s that?” “Because he shrinks from washing.” — Boys’ Life. (generally Happens That Way. Hokus: I wonder how it was that old Methuselah lived so long. Pokus: Probably some woman had married him for his money. Percy: Well, that isn’t any more, is it? — Pearson's Weekly. The Worst. “What’s the matter, old top? You look sick.” ”I’ve just undergone a serious opera^ tion,” “Appendicitis?” “Worse than that I had my allowance cut off.” — Portland Express. . He’d Need To Be. Robert: Mother, was Robinson Crusoe an acrobat? Mother: I don’t know. Why? Robert: Well, this book says that after he had finished his day’s work he sat down on his chest. — Philadelphia North American. More in H. C. L. Times. “P. T. Barnum said the public liked to be humbugged.” “Quite true,” admitted the man who was doing sums in arithmetic. “But it costs much less to be humbugged when Barnum was alive!” A Place for His Hose. Bobby: Say, papa, what makes the elephant’s coat so wrinkled. Papa: Why the poor old fellow can’t afford a wardrobe trunk. — Cartoons Mag- azine. How the Fight Started. “Let’s eat in this place.” "No, I don’t like the looks of it. Let’s eat up the street” “I don’t care to eat up the street, old top. I don’t think I could digest asphalt.” Booze-Sharpened. Wits. Harold: I thought you made a resolu- tion not to drink any more? Percy: I did. Harold: But you are drinking as much as ever. He Had to Confess. Hostess (to little Johnny, who is just leaving the party): Won’t you have an orange, Johnny? Johnny: No, thank you. I couldn’t eat any more. Hostess: Well, put one in your pocket. Johnny (much embarrassed and with considerable hesitation : I — I can’t. They’re full already. Same Old Crowd. Billy and ’Enery hadn’t met in a long time, when quite unexpectedly they came across each other in the street. Noticing that his friend was looking downcast, Bill clapped him on the back and said: “Hallo, 'Enery. How are yer gettin’ on? Still workin’ for the same people?” Digitized by VjOOQle

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56 The Kailroad Telegrapher. "Yes,” was ’Enery's sad reply. “Wife, mother-in-law and ten kids.”- Philadel- phia North- American. Hygienic to a Degree. “They are very particular at the new bake shop. The girls who wait on cus- tomers have to wear white gloves.” “Yes, and I’m told they don’t even al- low the ladyflngers to touch the other cookies.” Old Myth in New Clothes. The mother was putting her little child to bed. “If you will be real quiet,” she said, “I will tell you the story about the prince who killed a dragon and rescued a beau- tiful princess.” “Oh, mother,” protested the child, “that story is too undemocratic for the present day. Tell me the fairy tale about the government official who killed the prof- iteer and rescued the ultimate consumer.” — Exchange. Innocence. The ttate old gentleman put his head out of the remains of his window, and espied some small forms looking up at him from below. They all dispersed but one. “Look here, you young rascal, did you break my window?” “No, sir.” “Do you know who did?” “No, sir; I don't know nothin* about it.' “Well, get away. I don’t wfant you hanging around here.” “All right, mister. Will you give me my ball before I go?” “Give you your ball? Why, where is it?” “I think it is In your front parlor.” A Joke on Doc. The Red Cross doctor was examining a doughboy who had been badly wounded in both hands. The boy surveyed his injured members ruefully. “Do you think I’ll be able to play the piano when I get well?” he asked. “Certainly you’ll be able to play the piano,” said the doctor emphatically. “That’s funny,” remarked the soldier, “I never could play one before.” Gentle Persuasion. Did I understand you to say that this lad voluntarily confessed to playing tru- ant?” asked a school attendance officer, addressing the mother of a small and dir- ty boy. “Yes, sir, he did,” the woman responded. “I just had to persuade him a little, and then he told me the whole 'thing volun- tarily.” “How' did you persuade him?” inquired the officer. “Well, first I gave him a good hiding,” said the parent, “and then I put him to bed without supper, and I took his clothes away and told him he’d stay in bed till he confessed what he’d done, if 'twas the rest of his days, and that I should pun- ish him again in the morning. And in less than half an hour he told me the w hole story of his own accord.” — Tit-Bits.

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THE INFORMATION BUREAU. By H. B. PERHAM, Past President. < Continued from page 1660, December issue.) Your committee reports that Mr. Orth, to whom the duty of preparing and dis- tributing this chart was assigned, was ntterly unqualified for such work; that the eight measures which he selected in the chart as vital tests were in many ^instances measures which reflected par- ty policies rather than national issues of patriotic import; that six of the eight measures antedated our entrance into the war. in some instances more than a year. But little concern, if any, was given to the records of Congressmen made after the United States became a party to the war. This chart was distributed by the National Security League to individuals, newspapers and political committees. Mr. Orth testified that the league se- lected 169 congressional districts in the United States in which to be “active,0 and 47 districts in which to be “intense- ly active”; yet each and every one of the officers of the league swore positive- ly and repeatedly that the league did not enter politics. They qualified that state- ment, however, by saying that they were not in “partisan” politics. If their real and ulterior motives have been ascer- ‘tained, they were not in “partisan” poli- tics in the common acceptation of the word. In other words, they were neither for nor against a candidate because he was a democrat; neither were they for or against a man because he was a re- publican. As a matter of fact, the league cared nothing whatever for a candidate’s party affiliation. What chiefly concerned them was how his attitude would affect certain interest that would be the sub- ject of legislation by Congress during the reconstruction period. The active agencies in the league were Dot con- cerned about the politics of the party in power so long as they felt “the inter- ests” would be protected. What they wanted is disclosed .both by the “ques- tionnaire” which they sent out to candi- dates for Congress, and by the business interests of those who furnished the moqey with which they operated. By the “questionnaire” the league as- sumed to itself the right to pass upon a candidate's ability and other qualifica- tions for a seat in Congress, leaving nothing to the people themselves. Par- ticularly were they anxious to know his attitude in the past, as well as for the future, concerning the reconstruction matters to which reference has Just been made. They sought either to elect or defeat candidates for Congress from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Mr. Orth, the importer of sisal, from which the farmer’s binder twine is made, with an office in New York and another in Lon don ; and Mr. West, the lobbyist, sat down in New York and selected eight questions which were to determine the fitness of a member for re-election. Those eight questions, as already stated, were really not selected for that pur- pose. Those eight measures were se- lected out of the one hundred and twen- ty-odd war measures, because those eight better served their purposes than did any of the remaining ones of equal or great- er importance. Mr. Orth, as a sisal importer, from which the farmer’s binder twine is made, laid much stress upon the McLemore resolution and the Cooper amendment. Both of these propositions related to shipping, and Mr. Orth, the sisal im- porter, wras directly interested in ship- ping. Mr. Menken, who sat in the House of Commons in England and conceived the idea of forming the National Security Digitized by Google

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58 Thk Railroad Telegrapher. League in America, is attorney for Cu- ban sugar interests and for large steel manufacturing interests. Consequently, he, too, was interested in shipping. It is, not difficult to see how Mr. Orth, the importer of sisal, from which the farm- er's binder twine is made, and Mr. Men- ken, whose clients are sugar importers and steel exporters, should be interested in those two shipping propositions, and should desire to incorporate them in the chart. As ilustrating Mr. Orth’s unfit- ness to prepare a chart which passed on the loyalty and judgment of Members of Congress, attention is called to the fact that Senator Root and Judge Pattter, honorary officers of the league, testified that the construction placed upon some of the legislation comprehended in the chart was unjustified and misleading, and resulted in injustice to members of Congress and to the public, which Is en- titled to true conditions in determining the fitness of public servants. As hereinbefore indicated, the real pur- pose of the league was to elect a Con- gress, the majority of which would en- tertain their views on the great ques- tions of reconstruction which follow the war, and that conclusion is not too far- fetched when the whole record has been read. The interests herein referred to sought to supersede the people them- selves throughout the country, and tell them who should and who should not be elected to Congress. The league had to have money with which to operate. The parent institution at New York collected $619,165.28 prior to Septembert 30, 1918. The branch at Chicago collected about $57,000. It is known that the Philadelphia branch col- lected a large amount, and so did other branches throughout the country, but of the $619,165.28 collected by the parent house in New York with which to finance the activities of the league, $95.40 out of every $100 was collected in New York. The league called that its “general fund.” When Mr. Orth commenced his political activities as chairman of the congres- sional committee of the league, another fund was collected for that particular activity. Just here the question may be asked, if the league is not in politics, why was a special fund collected and put into the hands of Mr. Orth, as chairman of the congressional committee of the league? It is interesting to note, how- ever, that out of all the money collected by Mr. Orth for this particular activity all of it was collected in New York ex- cept $38. The following statement of disburse- ments by the National Security League is inserted in this report for the pur- pose of showing how the expenditures increased until the last of September preceding election, and how they de- creased immediately following the time after it was too late for them to be ad- vantageously used in election contests. These expenditures commenced to in- crease as the election approached, but when the 1st of October arrived, and the fight had virtually been made by the league, the expenses then commenced to decrease. The expenditures of the parent insti- tution of the National Security League at New York, between July 8, 1915, at which time the active work of the league appears to have begun, and De- cember 31, 1915, were $38,181.59. The amount expended from January 1. 1916, to December 31, 1916, was $94,- 840.43. The amount expended from January 1, 1917, to December 31, 1917, was $111,- 324.50. The amount expended from January 1, 1918, to December 31, 1918, embracing what was spent by Mr. Orth from his. congressional campaign fund, amounted to $235,667.56. The expenditures of 1916 increased over the expenditures of 1915, consider- ing time and amount, by 12 per cent; the expenditures of 1917 increased over the expenditures of 1916 by about 12 per cent; the expenditures of 1918, the year of the election, increased over the ex- penditures of 1917 by 112 per cent; the ex- penditures of 1918 increased over the ex- penditures of 1916 by 148 per cent, and the expenditures of 1918 increased over Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 59 the expenditures of 1915, considering time and amount, by 194 per cent. Both their greatest activity and their greatest expenditures were shortly prior to the elections of 1918. Would it not appear that the league engaged in poli- tics, when at the time their activities were greatest and their expenditures were largest, “preparedness,” which was their avowed purpose, was no longer a live question in this country? At that time Congress had appropriated billions of dollars for the work of “prepared- ness"; cantonments had been built in the various sections of the country; great quantities of food supplies had been gathered together; millions of tons of shipping had been built; all of our coast defenses had been strengthened; and nearly 2,000,000 American soldiers were in France. It is therefore unbelievable that in view of all these facts that the aim of the National Security League was “pre- paredness” rather than political. It is just as conclusive for what purpose the league was in politics. The congression- al committee of the National Security League, of which Mr. Orth was the head, was not formed until June, 1918, which was only six months before the recent congressional elections. If “prepared- ness” was the purpose of the league, why was the congressional committee of the league formed so late as June, 1918, when everything that human endeavor and money could do had been done along the line of “preparedness”? It is ob- vious that Congress at that time had done everything possible in the way of preparedness, yet at that time we find Mr. Orth collecting money for a “special fund” to be used by himself as chair- man of the congressional committee of the league. Among the papers or Mr. Orth was found a most interesting one. That pa- per had the States listed in alphabetical order. Attention to that list is invited. It i9 to be found on page 2066, part 30, of the hearings, February 20, 1919. The first State treated in that paper was Ala- bama. Opposite the names of some of the candidate the word “fight" was writ- teen. There was no such notation oppo- site the names of other candidates. Does not that clearly and conclusively show that some were to be fought by the league and that others were not? The next State on that list is Arizona. Opposite the name of one of the candi- dates the word “fight” was written. Nothing stands opposite the name of the other. Arkansas is the next State on Mr. Orth’s alleged nonpolitical list. Imme- diately under the name “Arkansas” in brackets is the following notation: (No Republican nominee, 1918.)” That is sig- nificantly meaningless if the National Security League was not in politics. Colorado is the next State on the list. By the use of the word “fight,” it is shown that some of the candidates were to be fought. Opposite the name of an- other, instead of the word “fight,” was the notation “no fight.” Still they were not in politics. California is the next State On Mr. Orth’s list, fn that State we find the notation “no fight” used six times op- posite the names of candidates. Also op- posite some of the names in California are found the two letters “N. M.” Mr. Orth explains that those two letters should not be “N. M.,” but should be “N. N.,” meaning “no nomination.” Still they were not in politics. In California the word “fight” is used opposite the names of two candidates. In Montana the word “fight” is oppo- site the name of one candidate, while the words “no fight” are opposite the name of another. In North Dakota the words “no fight” are opposite the names of two candi- dates. In two districts the words “N. M.” are used, meaning, as heretofore ex- plained, “no nomination.” Still they were not in politics. In South Dakota two men had the word “fight” written opposite their names. One of these was Royal C. Johnson, who at the time was at the battle front in France. Digitized by Google

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THK it AILHOA Ij TkLKUKAPIIKK. (>() In Nevada one was marked “no fight.” There were no notations opposite the names o£ any of the others in that State. In Illinois the notation “fight” appears opposite the names of 11 of the candi- dates. The words “no fight” appear op- posite the names of 9. Still they were not in politics. In Indiana the notation “no fight” ap- pears opposite the names of nine, while the word “fight” appears oposite the names of four. The entire list of States is treated Just as those above set forth. Still they were not in politics. If the league had certain men designated which they were to “fight,” and others which they were “not tc fight,” can they truthfully insist that they were not in politics? Yet all active officials of the league except one who went upon the stand testified that they were not in politics. Mr. Orth’s ex- planation of the words “fight” and “no fight” and “no nomination” is ridiculous in the light of the testimony before the committee. His explanation is found on page 2065 of the hearings, part 30, and reads as follows: National Security League (Inc.), Congressional Committee, New York, February 12, 1919. Hon. Ben. Johnson, Chairman, House Office Building, Washington, D. C.: Dear Sir — With respect to the evidence from our records which Congressman Saunders asked us to file (p. 732, lower part), I believe that there is an error in the record. My recollection is that what Congressman Saunders really asked for and what he wanted was a copy of the brown sheets from which I was reading at the time. These are inclosed here- with. Explanation of the various notations follows: “Fight” was a key word, indicating that an intensive educational campaign was indicated by the record. “No fight” was a key word, indicating that no intensive educational campaign was indicated by the record, or because the candidate whose record was bad had not been renominated, or for such other reasons as the tabulation itself makes obvious. “N. M.” indicates “No nomination” — a slip of the pen in using “N. M.” instead of “N. N.” “No contest” indicates the same as “No nomination.” “Any opponent?” (Missouri sheet only) was intended to question the correctness of our information to the effect that there had been “No nomination” in the districts in question. “(?)” indicated further inquiry neces- sary. Very truly yours, CHAS. D. ORTH. It is interesting to note here that when the word “fight” was being used by Mr. Orth in his alleged nonpolitical records, the expenditures of the league had in- creased 194 per cent over the expendi- tures of 1915, and that the amount of money spent by the league during that year had grown from $38,181.59 in 1915, when “preparedness” was really up, to $235,667.56. The smaller expenditure was made when, at least for appearance’s sake, they were adhering to their pre- paredness avowals, while at the time of the larger expenditures they had thrown those avowals to the winds and were actually in politics, notwithstand- ing all these denials. As soon as Mr. Lydecker saw that the testimony disclosed that the league was in politics( he undertook to prejudice the public mind against the anticipated re port of your committee by sending a tel- egram to the chairman of the committee, reading as follows: February 6, 1919. Col. Charles Lydecker, President Na- tional Security League: New York, February 5, 1919. Hon. Ben. Johnson, Room 377, House Of- fice Building, Washington, D. C.: Please register distinct protest of the National Security League at the failure and refusal to give notice of the resump- tion of sessions of the committee of the House of Representatives, of which you are chairman, and the taking of testi- mony without opportunity given to the Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 61 league to cross-examine witnesses. The league requests that opportunity be given to rebut any testimony which has been given or may be given in the absence of a representative of the National Secure ity League. In view of the attempt to distort a great patriotic movement on the part of the thousand constituting the National Security League into a selfish organization, the officers of the league are obliged to take official notice and action. CHARLES LYDECKER, President The chairman of the committee an- swered that telegram .as follows: Your telegram is one of complaint at the committee for not giving you notice of the resumption of its hearings, and also for refusing to permit you to cross- examine witnesses. When your telegram was sent no witnesses had been intro- duced except officers of your league. I can not possibly see why you can com- plain that you did not have an opportuni- ty to cross-examine yourself and other officers of your league who have testi- fied. You, yourself, were on the witness stand several days, and so were several of th.e officers of your league. If you had any desire to cross-examine yourselves, you had ample opportunity to do so. The committee is not giving formal notice of its hearings to anybody, taking it for granted that everybody who may be in- terested will exhibit enough interest to ascertain when the hearings will be held. You know of your own knowledge the hearings have been conducted from day to day when it was at all practica- ble to do so. You, as president of the league, and Mr. West, as executive secre- tary of the league, were present at the hearing in Chicago, which was the last one preceding the day on which your tel: egram was sent. Your telegram indi- cates that you had knowledge of the fact that a hearing was to be had on the day when your* telegram was sent. You are within a few hours* ride from WTash- ington and easily could have gotten here for the afternoon session of the com- mittee on the day your telegram was sent The investigation is continuing to-day. The honorary chairman of your league, Hon. Elihu Root, is testifying to-day/ Your telegram implies that you would like to be present for the purpose of cross-examining him. I think I can safe- ly say for the committee that it was not anticipated that the league contemplated cross-examining themselves. Very truly yours, Ben Johnson, Chairman. There was no doubt in the minds of your committee that Lydecker enter- tained the hope that in that telegram he could make a statement that would go unchallenged by the committee; and that he woulcjl then, through Harvey, circulate it to the public with the view of having it believed that the representatives of the league were really “prevented*’ from being present at the hearings. The conclu- sion to that effect, which was reached by the committee immediately upon the re- ceipt of the telegram, turned out to be correct, for Lydecker was subpoenaed to return from New York to Washington and testify concerning it. By the time he appeared before the committee the committee had some of the facts in hand, and Mr. Lydecker was compelled to ad- mit that he dictated the telegram in his office, and that Mr. West, the executive „ secretary of the league, immediately tel- ephoned it over to the office of the league on Forty-fourth Street, and that instant- ly a copy of the telegram was gotten by Mr. Harvey and by him sent to the press, even before the telegram itself had been delivered to the telegraph company in New York to be transmitted to the chair- man of your committee, for whom it was only pretendedly intended. With the same purpose in mind, Mr. Lydecker, on the 11th day of February, 1919, wrote a letter to the chairman of the committee, in which he reiterated and enlarged upon the false statements contained in the telegram, not knowing that the committee then possessed some information as to how the telegram had been handled. The letter reads as fol- lows: Digitized by Google

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62 Thk Railroad Telegrapher. Office of the President, 19 West Forty-fourth Street, New York, February 11, 1919. Hon. Ben. Johnson, Chairman Committee on Investigation of the National Se- curity League, House of Representa- tives, Washington, D. C.: Dear Sir — Understanding that at hear- ings when, without notice, it was beyond the power of the National Security League to attend, testimony has been taken, as I am informed, of Messrs. Mc- Culloch, Sherwood, Cooper, Frear, Mason, Britten, King, and .Juul, the league again enters its protest against the fact that the committee has prevented the pres- ence of the league at such hearings, and now requests that the league have the opportunity to read the testimony given by these witnesses, and if any charge has been made of any participation by any person connected with the National Security League in any one of the sec- tions represented by any of these gentle- men, and by the name of the field secre- taiy has been brought in in connection therewith under any such charge, that the opportunity be given to give testi mony in rebuttal thereof. Very truly yours, CHARLES E. LYDECKER, President. Thereupon the chairman of the com- ' mittee answerd that letter, as follows: Committee on the District of Columbia, House of Representatives, Washing- ton, D. C., February 12, 1919: Col. Charles E. Lydecker, President Na- tional Security League, New York: Dear Sir — I am just in receipt of your letter of yesterday addressed to me as chairman of the congressional commit- tee which is investigating the National Security League, wherein you state that the committee has prevented the pres- ence of the league at its hearings. The committee has directed me to say in re- ply that all the hearings have been con- ducted publicly, and that your gratuitous statement that the league has been pre- vented by the committee from being present at any of the hearings is wholly and unqualifiedly false, and known by you to be so when you made the state- ment. On the 5th instant you sent a telegram to me, as chairman of the com- mittee, asserting that the committee had refused to notify the league that the hearings had been resumed, thereby falsely stating by implication that the league did not know that the hearings were not still being conducted;, while, as a matter of fact, on the day before you sent the telegram, the Sergeant at Arms of the IJouse of Representatives served a subpoena on Hon. Elihu Root, the honorary president of the league, summoning him to appear before the committee in Washington for the pur- pose of testifying, and that the next day thereafter, which was the very day on which you sent the telegram, Mr. Root left New York and came to Washington, and that the next day — the 6th instant — he testified before the committee. Further, on the day before^you sent the telegram saying, in substance, that the league was without knowledge that the hearings were going on, the Sergeant at Arms of the House of Representatives served a subpoena on Hon. Alton B. Par- ker, the vice president of your league, summoning him from New York to Washington, to which summons he re- sponded and testified yesterday, which happens to be the very date oi; your let- ter containing the false statement that the committee has prevented the pres- ence of the league at the hearings. The appearance before the committee, at the hereinbefore-stated times, of the honor- ary president and the honorary vice- president of the league, not only refutes the statement that the league did not know that the committee was still con- ducting hearings, but it shows beyond dispute that you knew when you made it that the statement was a falsehood out of whole cloth: The committee will resume its hear- ings next Friday morning at 10 o’clock in room 377 of the House Office Building, Washington, D. C., at which hearing, or at an adjourned meeting thereof, any officer of the league may testify, and you. the president of the league, are directed to apepar before the committee for fur- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 63 there examination at the time and place herein indicated. Yours truly, BEN JOHNSON, Chairman. The admissions of Mr. Lydecker were not made until Mr. Harvey had appeared upon the witness stand and, in answer to questions put by Mr. Reavis, had told how the telegram and letter had been handled by him. It developed in the tes- timony that the letter of February 11 was written very late in the afternoon, and that Mr. Harvey did not see it until the next morning, but that immediately he did see it he endeavored to get . it into the afternoon papers of New York on that day. It is high time that the people through- out the country who have contributed their dimes, their quarters and their dol- lars to this league should know the uses to which these contributions are being put, and the character of the men con- ducting the activities of this organiza- tion. Very many of the small contribu- tions to the league have been made by people full of patriotism, little suspecting that their contributed earnings would be used to thwart and defeat the very prin- ciples of Government for which they ^tand. There were many of these, but the rep- resentations publicly made by the officers of the league as to the number were al- ways greatly exaggerated. In a letter addressed by the National Security League to the Carnegie Corpo- ration, asking for the subscription of 1150,000, the statement was made that there were 185,000 members of the league. From the testimony given by Mr. West, who keeps the books, it appears that that representation was neany 100,- G00 too many. Reverting to the Congressional chart: About 125 laws were enacted by Con- gress that related intimately to the war w to the preparation for war. Mr. Charles D. Orth, who selected the eight measures out of this vast number as tests of loyalty, was not even remotely fa- miliar with the legislative conduct of Congress on these measures, many of which he had never heard of, and of none of which did he have more than a su- perficial knowledge. He selected, most arbitrarily, those eight measures, mak- ing them the test of loyalty of those who acted officially upon them, and then con- strued those eight measures in his chart in a misleading manner, Justifying such conduct in his testimony with the un- just statement that if he had wronged anybody the one wronged could make any defense he desired. When the at- tention of the league was called to the manifest injustice of the chart; that it had wronged a number of men and had put them in a false light, no effort was made by the league to make any cor- rections; but, on the contrary, the league continued to send out the chart on its own motion, as well as wherever request was made for it. The New York organization was re- sponsible for most of this injustice. To follow the effects of the political ac- tivities of this league Into all the chan- nels which they entered would be im- possible. The false and misleading chart issued by the league was 'sent broadcast to individuals, to newspapers, and in some instances to political campaign committees, and its subject matter was utilized freely by them. The greatest in- justice has been done to many loyal, patriotic men who have given the nation the benefit of commanding ability, un- questioned courage and unalloyed patriot- ism, by men seeking partisan ends, and undertaking to hide their self-interest be- neath the cloak of public service and na- tional good. The National Security League and like organizations in their political activities constitute a serious menace to repre- sentative government. Ordinarily their real purpose is concealed and their ap- peal is made to the public on some prin- ciple in harmony with dominant senti- ment. Usually, as in this instance, they have access to almost unlimited wealth, and borrow respectability by the use, in honorary positions, of the names of men of national prominence. If their real pur- Digitized by Google

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64 Thk Railroad Telegrai»iier. pose were apparent, the danger would be relieved. Men in public life are given by them to understand that they must be sub- servient to the demands of such institu- tions; and, upon their failure to do so, they will be held up to public scorn and humiliation by false accusations, tinder such circumstances the best-intentioned candidate for office realizes that he has one of two alternatives: He must be either subservient to the demands of these camouflaged organizations, or be put on the defensive by false charges. Such activities on the part of organiza- lions similar to the National 'Security League have a tendency to compel obe- dience to the wishes of special interests, rather than obedience to a real concern for the welfare of the people. This con- dition is not at all fanciful, since its bane- ful effects have been fully demonstrated by the activities of the National Security League. The “fight" made by the National Se- curity League upon the loyalty of men of the highest patriotism was so glaringly unjust, and so patently false that it failed of its purpose but the failure was due to an error of judgment on the part of the league, and not because of the lack of "icious purpose. In times of war, or- ganizations avowing patriotism, such as the National Security League did, will i eceive many adherents, and for that reason the league secured a membership of nearly 90,000 people throughout the United States. It was the duty of the league, therefore, to exercise the greatest care and caution in its publicity matter, where the good names of men were in- volved. Section 1 of the Federal act, generally known as the “corrupt practices act.” approved June 25, 1910, is as follows: The term “political committee,” un- der the provisions of the act, shall in- clude national committees of all political parties, the national Congressional cam- paign committees of all political parties, and all committees, associations, or or- ganizations which shall in two or more states influence the result, or attempt to influence the result of an election at which Representatives in Congress are to be elected. Sections 5 and 6 of the act, as amended by an act approved August 19, 1911, re- quire that such political committees as are defined in section 1 stall file with the Clerk of the House of Representa- tives, at Washington, D. C., certain item- ized statements which shall be verified by oath. In the judgment of your committee the National Security League has violated the provisions of that act, the penalty for which is a fine of not more than $1,000, or imprisonment not longer than one year, or both. BEN JOHNSON, PAT. HARRISON, E. W. SAUNDERS, T. H. CARAWAY, C. F. REAVIS, E. E. BROWNE. ANTI-STRIKE LEGISLATION. In almost any newspaper you chance to read at this time, you will find edi- torials or articles by numerous financiers, large employers of labor, Chambers of Commerce, Businessmen’s Associations and politicians hammering at organized labor, calling the workers in some in- stances Bolshevikist, advocating compul- sory arbitration and non-strike legisla- tion and other plans to curb labor when- ever it becomes powerful enough to force justice from the moneyed interests. This class of so-called gentlemen are doing all within their power to cause friction between the different groups of workers, especially to create a bad feel- ing between organized and unorganized workers. Can it be they believe that through this propaganda the unorganized workers can be held in line and will not join hands with organized labor to com- pel capital to give labor a square deal? The organized worker is not going to fall for this talk of theirs, so they, no doubt think they will put the finishing, touch to the powerful labor organizations Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 6f> through compulsory arbitration and non- strike legislation. Do these gentlemen want compulsory arbitration where the worker is not strongly organized and powerful enough to enforce his demands? 1 say no they do not. I have studied a number of plans to settle the industrial disputes and they all advocate compulsory arbitration for the railroad worker and miners and that is about as far as most of them go. Some suggest the plan would cover steel work* ers and packing house employes, etc., which means it would cover other work- ers whenever they became too powerful for capital to handle, but until then cap- ital is perfectly satisfied to handle the workers without any help o£ a court or tribunal, because such a tribunal might give them more than necessary. If these big hearted citizens are so anxious to see all concerned receive jus- tice, why do these various plans only include the highly organized workers? Why, if compulsory arbitration before some tribunal is the proper and just method of settling industrial disputes should it not cover all industrial disputes instead of only a few? If it is just and proper that the rail- roadmen and miners and other workers who become thoroughly organized shall abide by the decision of such a tribunal, which names their wage or income, w^y should not every other person’s income in this United States be subject to such a tribunal? How can they have the nerve to say that we should allow such a trib- unal to set our income and not regulate the incomes of the balance. Oan we jnstly be asked to submit to this discrim- ination? I would answer no. Has Congress any more right to set our incomes than that of the doctors, lawyers, businessmen, farmers, manufac- turers, and in fact all other persons? The writer has for some time past realized that some peaceful method must sooner or later be found to settle indus- trial disputes but wishes to protest against such a tribunal regulating his Income, until such time as it is seen fit to do the same with other citizens’ in- comes. We see much in the papers saying the coal strike is a test to ascertain which is the more powerful, the Government or the miners. From much of the material we get the idea that if the miners are not beaten, all hope for the Government is lost and the labor unions will take over the control of the Government; that this is the supreme test to ascertain if our present form of government is to stand, or we are to become a second Russia. It is needless to say that prac- tically every union man knows better than that and is not being deceived by buch propaganda, but there are many thousands of workers who do not under- stand the workings of a labor organiza- tion wiio are swallowing such stuff. We as union men must do all within our power to overcome such ideas among the unorganized and do all we can to put th«se workers right on all such schemes which are coming out daily so that when the time comes to decide who shall rep- resent the workers they will be able to judge correctly the men who solicit their support. The time appears to be at hand when labor must fight with all its might to hold what ground it has already gained and not receive the most serious setback In years. Capital apparently believes the time has come to fight a finish with or- ganized labor. The critical time is upon us, we are going to be put to the su- preme test during this period. It is up to us whether we win or lose. We must not stop when we pay our dues and re- ceive our new card, but must do all pos- sible to bring in the nons and make our own organization as solid as possible. But that is only part of the battle; we must wrork among our friends who are not organized and who may be easily in- fluenced by the newspaper propaganda against us. In most cases it is because they do not understand the situation clearly, do not understand that the gains made by organized labor places benefits in their hands, betters their wage and conditions; and a setback to the organized Digitized by Googk

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66 The Railroad Telegrapher. workers reflects in the same manner to them. We need their support but they need ours jnore. Our interests are mu- tual. I sincerely believe it is very im- portant to give more attention to this matter in order to offset misleading prop- aganda which is being spread daily against union labor, especially the rail- road men and other powerful labor or- ganizations. G. H. Dameron, Div. 130. *»AY YOUR POLL TAX. Have you paid your poll tax? If not, why not? If not, in the name of organized labor and the uplift of humanity, DO IT NOW. “THE VOTE IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD/' Our only sure road to victory is through our vote. Is such an undertaking possible? Most assuredly yes. If every laboring man would pay his poll tax, which is his duty as an American citizen; go to the polls and vote, not merely as a matter of “Just voting/* but do so with a firm de- termination to cast your ballot for the right man, or men, regardless of party. When we have accomplished this great and laudable undertaking, victory will be ours. We want men to represent us that have no capitalistic strings tied to them. We want men who will give labor a square deal, make this a free country and a de- cent place to live, that we may “LIVE AND LET LIVE/* and be given a living wage. Labor has been handed a rotten deal by the Government since the signing of the armistice, and continues to discrim- inate and hand out raw deals, in the form of injunctions. I am not opposing the Government, I am a law abiding citizen and will sup- port the flag and laws of our Govern- ment, but I believe in fair play and we should first put the right sort of men in power, to enact the right kind of laws for us to support. “HE WHO MAKES NO MISTAKES DOES NOTHING. HE WHO MAKES TOO MANY LOSES HIS JOB.” You and I may not be as intelligent and prominent, but without a doubt, we could do more good in Washington, with nothing but a clear conscience and no strings tied to us than the majority of the Senators and Congressmen with cor- poration brains and money power strings all over them, who act like a bunch of school boys. I am not a Bolshevik, although I may just as well acknowledge that I am one, for I might be accused of being one because I belong to a union. I am not an anarchist nor an I. W. W. — TO WITH THEM. I have no patience with outlaws and any person or persons who will maip. and kill innocent people just to gain their point, should be run off the face of the earth. The Government started a campaign against Bolshevism, and their first move was in the camps of organized labor. In my opinion, the Government made a bad move. They should have started at home — in the Capitol at Washington. The United States Senate and House of Representatives are running over with capitalistic Bolsheviks, ruled by the au- tocratic iron hand of kaisered corpora- tions and greedy trusts. I am a democrat, I suppose because my father was before me. Should I support and vote for a man who is opposed to organized labor simply because that man is a democrat? NEVER. My intentions are to vote for the man that will give us justice regardless of his party affilia- tions. Brothers, do you realize why we are compelled to pay poll tax before we can vote? Do you realize why there is no law to compel you to pay your poll tax? There is only one answer — capitalistic influence over Senators to prevent them from passing such a law. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 67 CAPITAL DOES NOT WANT YOU TO VOTE. They realize how strong the labor vote would be if they all voted. So capital figures if the laboring men had to pay to vote, the majority of them would not put themselves to that much trouble and expense. Why is there a law to compel you to pay your street tax, city, county and state tax, and no law to make you pay your poll tax? If organized labor cannot secure jus- tice from the old parties, it is time to organize a new party. WHY NOT A LABOR PARTY? Organized labor has plenty of political possibilities and some excellent mate- rial could be put in the field. The labor vote is strong, if we would but use it. Brothers, my poll tax is paid, is yours? It will at lea&t kill one capital vote. Get in line boys, all together now, pay your poll tax and be prepared for 1920. Cebt. 152, Div. 59. TOPICS ON LABOR. To hare an audience of 85,000 broth- ers is something to be proud of. That is what you can have if you will write some- thing for our valued magazine, and if enough of you who think as I do about the space devoted to fraternal matter would undertake to write something for the Good of the Order, your views re- garding the industrial situation on eco- nomics, sociology, philosophy or matters coming to your notice in your locality vhich have a direct bearing on labor and unionism there would be plenty of good material at hand to publish without flll- fag up on fraternal items which interest hut very few and has practically no value to union labor. For instance, we see in the public press hig head lines, “Machine Guns to Quell Reds.” Some brother located in this territory might be able to tell us the truth about the matter instead. The machine guns ▼ere used to terrorize union men asking for better conditions. I am of the opin- ion that the public press is very unfair to union labor and use every means at their command to start something and place the blame on the workers. If we cannot get a square deal in the public press, the truth should be brought out through some avenue and it seems that labor magazines should be used for that purpose. We should profit by the meth- ods employed by the capitalist class or employers who never miss an opportu- nity to boost for their class in every publication under their control. They use public speakers, movie picture shows and even the pulpit in every way they possibly can to aid and bolster their side of the question. Why shouldn't la- bor do the same thing? Take an active interest in your union, because it's the nearest and most important duty you have to perform. Talk unionism, write unionism, inter- est yourself in other crafts, get them started to organize. We have a splendid start now but the organization is by no means complete, make it stronger not only in your own craft but urge your friends and associates to organize. We are going to need more organization in the future than we have now, and the stronger and more democratic in prin- ciple we become as workers of all crafts, the less strikes and confusion we will have. We should make labor so thor- oughly organized that men like Judg6 Gary would never attempt to do what he did. Never has any employer of labor taken a more autocratic stand than did Judge Gary in his refusal to confer with the committee of steel workers. His attitude in refusing to even consult with the com- mittee demonstrates that he is willing to go to any length to prevent labor organizations from securing a foothold in the steel industries. As yet we have seen nothing in the “public" press or from the mouths of prominent individuals, con- demning him for the stand that he has taken. Fully realizing that he would se- cure the conscious and undivided support of the capitalist class of the country. Gary threw the gauntlet to the commit- tee and the fight was on. Gary's State- Digitized by VjOOQle

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68 The Railed ad Telegrapher. ment, obviously made for publicity pur- poses, in reference to the strike must be taken with a grain of salt. Anything but the most superficial analysis will show its hypocrisy and malicious intent If it were not for the fact that many work- ers will swallow his statement, this care- fully worded letter of Gary’s would be a joke. Gary, himself knows better. No one but the most gullible would be fooled by his words, he uses arguments that have been dead twenty years as far as the people of understanding are con- cerned. Talking of the autocracy of unions and their domination over the laboring man is decidedly funny to one who remembers Homestead and other “democratic” acts of the steel barons. Make unionism so strong that future Garys will die a borning and it can only be done by more perfect organization and organization can be made more per- fect by better understanding of social conditions which is only possible by edu- cation of the workers valong sociological and economic lines. You see much of late in the “public” press about radicals of various calibre. Now, just what is a radical? One who asks less of society than he gives to society isn’t very radical is he? It doesn’t seem to me a man of this type could possibly be a radical, his demands are modest for he pays ample for all he receives, yet you are led to believe that workers and organizations of work- ers are becoming radical. I can readily see how a person demand- ing more from society than is given in exchange to society can be a radical, and if you will look closely at the real truth the ones who are sobbing the loud- est about the radicals are the only ones there are to be found anywhere. Again, there are certain kinds of read- ing matter it is not permissible for a worker to read; of course, the boss knows good from bad and the poor work- er has no reasoning powers and is gen- erally bad anyway, so they are not per- mitted to have any intoxicating litera- ture. Those who attempt to show la- bor’s side of any question effecting cap- ital in any way are handled roughly. Union labor is partly at fault for condi- tions which restrict our rights, because we do not take an active part in the public matters that affect us. We leave it for Bill to do, and Bill fixes things to suit himself, and we are forced to resort at times to unreasonable measures such as a strike. By making our organization stronger, a strike would be unnecessary. Now let’s get together on this and everybody help a little and see if we cannot demonstrate that labor has brains as well as muscle, and that we are going to use both to im- prove the social condition of all. I thank you. Cert. 435, Div. 39. FORCE LABOR’S RIGHTS BY YOUR VOTE. I have been very much interested late- ly in our “Railroad Telegrapher” and think we are showing healthy signs, in- asmuch as we are printing more and more matters that are of vital interest to our profession. Remarks have been made in regard to eliminating the “Fra- ternal” portion of our magazine, and I also think that would be a very good thing How many Brothers or Sisters on the Pennsylvania R. R. would be in- terested to read in the Telegrapher that Bro. Smith on the Canadian National Railway had recovered from his cold or how many on the Canadian National Railway would be interested in the fact that Bro. Black on the Pennsylvania H. R. bought a Ford car. Nearly all of us have had both of these things at one time or another, but if the Division cor- respondent for thd Pennsylvania R. R. would tell us how many employes there are in his territory available for mem- bership and how many are in the Order we could make comparisons and learn if we couldn’t beat him to it and have a higher percentage. I believe we would be more liable to read these pages. If any breaches of schedule are being com- mitted on the Division, and not being in- vestigated, let him tell that, so we will have an idea how many times schedule violations are being made and when it Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 69 comes our turn, we will have an idea whether we are sinning or toeing sinned against. I note one Brother’s remarks regarding the Ontario elections. That is another healthy sign because, Brothers, there is far more power in the ballot than we ever realized, and our opposi- tion took advantage of it years ago. It seems that the papers did not advertise the fact that Ontario had cleared out both of the old political machines and relegated them to the back benches and put in a new outfit composed of repre- sentatives chosen from the ranks of the farmers and the laborers. I might also advise you that Edmonton, Alberta, put a Labor ticket in the municipal elections and then elected them. A Mayor, five Aldermen and four School Trustees were required, and, although the city papers would say nothing in favor of any of the Labor ticket and the Edmonton editors had only the fact that the candidates were backed by the Labor party, to work on, while the opponents were lauded to the skies. Yet Labor elected the May- or, three Aldermen and three School Trustees. Gentlemen, take your hats off to Edmonton. The Laborites deserve it, and what is better their represerftatives are making good. Our Federal and Pro- vincial Government, after reading the writing on the walls in these cases, are taking fright and are now trying to fig- ure out a new brand of representation, based on so many representatives from agricultural districts, according to popu- lation. and many from the urban dis- tricts based on population. This idea It is plain to be seen will cut down Mr. Farmer, who they feel has gotten out of hand and set him against Mr. Worker, who they think they can still handle. This may be a mistaken idea or it may not; however, they are working on past knowledge, and these professional poli- ticians, backed by the capitalistic hunch, are pretty wise to these matters. There- fore, boys, it behooves us all as never before to closely inspect pur political candidates and be absolutely certain we are on the voting list and by all means vote. Cert. 3024. Div. 1. STATION AGENTS. * The several letters appearing recently relative to the inequality of pay received by Station Agents, as compared with other lines of railroad work, have great- ly interested me. I agree that the other fellow is not getting too much, but I do contend that agents and agent-operators are being paid a mighty slim remuneration for the quality and quantity of the work de- manded.' And this applies all along the line— on every line and branch line — not at the small country stations only, but the larger offices as well. For when we consider the difference paid agents in the larger towns and cities, and com- pare that difference with living ex- penses, we find the odds almost invaria- bly in favor of the man in the country or village office. This Is not right. Hon- estly and plainly speaking, we know that the agent in the larger town is, and al- ways must be, a man of more finished railroad education, more diplomatic, more aggressive and more general- ly skilled in handling employes and the public than his brother agent "in the smaller locality. We all must possess these attributes and apply them as the position demands. If we didn’t we couldn’t hold our jobs, and that fact alone makes us worth double the amount we are receiving. It is my conviction that no “exclusive” or “appointive” agent should receive less than three thousand a year, and no agent or agent-operator less than twenty-five hundred. This is no snap conclusion; I’ve been in the game many years — helper, telegrapher, bill clerk, ticket agent — but any job that combines all or several of these is a man-size one and worth real money. And twenty-five or thirty hundred falls far short of being that, in these days, you must admit. We cannot smooth out all the inequali- ties and inconsistencies In salary or Digitized by L-ooQle

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70 The Railroad Telegrapher. working conditions, but we can reduce the most glaring ones, and I believe there is not a handful of agents, regard- less of location, but will agree with me that their pay is amazingly inconsistent with the work performed. I'd like to hear the argument of the man who does not! The average agent-operator does prac- tically as much operating as the exclu- sive operator. He gets no more pay — with a very few exceptions. (I don't count Express Commission as railroad pay and consider it absolutely none of the railroad official’s business how much the commission is — it's dearly earned and insignificant.) So the matter sim- mers down to the fact that all the detail of running the office, mail, freight, bill- ing, tickets, tariffs — you know the rest of the list and its length — is work do- nated. Just that — donated! We are the biggest bunch of open- handed donators in the country. We do- nate more intensive, intelligent, money- producing work than that for which we draw our pay. We are paid as oper- ators— all the rest, the doubly difficult and laborious work we donate. Doesn't it resolve itself Into just exactly that? And if the operator's minimum is sixty cents, I claim the agent-operator's is worth much more than double that. What do you think? If your idea is In line with mine, or no matter how radically it differs, let us hear from you. Let us discuss our ideas, take stock of ourselves and make up our minds to do something for a change. The O. R. T. can handle this better than any other organization. 1 do not believe it necessary to ally ourselves with any other organization, or to form a separate one, such as the. Order of Railroad Sta- tion Agents. That order is very good in its intentions, but only serves to di- vide what is a proven, capable order and so weakens instead of strengthening. We are in the position of a man af- flicted with a disease, and also in pos- session of the cure. We are the money- getters, more so than any other class of railway employes — let's get a solid slice of it ourselves. Cert. 1148. SOLID ORGANIZATION PROPAGATES JUSTICE. What would happen if business ability became very common, while at the same time the human race so deteriorated in physique, that only a few remained cap- able of holding a plow or handling a pick. We haven't quite reached that stage. Business ability has not become a drug upon the market and muscle is still fair- ly common. But freight engineers in numerous cases are getting larger wages than the salaries paid to some Gov- ernors, possibly some men would rather pay a salary rather than receive one for acting in the distinguished capacity of a Governor. Preachers and school teachers spend several years in universities training for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, in- structors in universities often draw the same wage as men who rake leaves and remove ashes on the campus. One has probably read of instances of schoolboys who were so defective men- tally that they were forced to leave school, and at once secured a job that paid slightly more than the salary paid to the school teacher who tr^ed to in- struct him. Another instance of muscle or brain is represented In the following: Trainmaster: "For this job you've got to be a good penman, and able to keep record of cars; the position pays $90 per month. Applicant: "Lord, mister, I ain't got no edication; I'm after a Job in the yards." Trainmaster: "All right, we can start you at sixty cents cents per hour as brakeman in the yards." What we derive from this is that mus- cle and no training enjoy greater re- wards than brain of years' training. Can professors who receive less than shoe factory help continue to impress Digitized by CsOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 71 high standards of culture if they lose their relative social standard? Will men toil aod study to become authorities on water supplies and electrical systems if they are paid less than coal miners? I receive somewhat less pay than an engineer on the railroad. To be a loco- motive engineer is to attain one of the most priied and important positions in the whole world of skilled manual labor. He is an aristocrat of wage earners. Yet 1 have it all over him. I wouldn’t change places with him for anything. They say that workers of our craft and other members of the salaried class, such as clerks and public employes, have to maintain a social position, which the wage earners, including the engineer, do not have to keep up, and that it costs money to maintain this position. It is the brain worker’s salary that needs adjustment at the present time. During the bubonic plague, which swept England in 1348 to 1350, in which nearly one-half of the population died, causing a shortage of rural labor, the majority of these workers were treated almost as slaves, some few, however, having been set free by their lords and classed as free laborers, were employed by the lord to help the slaves during har- vest seasons; some few asked for larger wages. The lords were shocked at such demands and induced Parliament and the King to forbid laborers asking for more than the “customary” wages. For an entire century an attempt was made to enforce these laws, but wages rose despite all the laws and remained high for two hundred years. This law, in my estimation, would have been similar to the Cummins anti- strike bill had it passed. While there were no union organizations of labor in England at th^t time the free laborers were granted their demands. The labor organizations of America were prepared for an attack upon their most useful weapon, “the strike,” and would not tolerate the passage of such a Taw as the proposed Cummins bill. Stay Organized! Cert. 3500, Div. 17. ESTABLISH A LABOR PRESS. When the recent strike of coal miners was called on November 1, Gov. Frazier, of North Dakota, immediately got in touch with Henry Brennan, of Billings, Mont, president of the Miners’ Union District, which consists of Montana and North Dakota. Mr. Frazier put it up to the miners’ union head, the great amount of suffering which would ensue in the State if the mines were to close down at this time. North Dakota was in the grip of an early winter. Below zero temper- ature, much snow and a bad blizzard. Would the miners continue at work in this State if their demands as to wages were met or an agreement could be reached with the Mine Operators? Mr. Brennan took the matter up by wire wltn the national officers of the miners' union, who authorized the North Dakota coal miners to stay on the job if an agree- ment could be reached with the oper- ators, and upon the condition that none of the coal so mined was to be shipped outside of the State of North Dakota. On the strength of this the Governor called a conference of the operators and miners to thresh the matter out. The miners waived the short work-day, agree- ing to work the regular eight-hour day, holding out only for the wage increase. An agreement could have been reached but for the stubborn and unyielding at- titude of two or three of the operators. Their attitude seemed to be upon the advice of their attorney, a notorious old- gang politician, who thought by blocking the agreement with the miners they could throw the blame on the Farmers’ Administration and thus discredit it. When the Governor saw that an agree- ment between the two hostile camps would not be reached, and that the pub- lic would be apt to suffer account of a shortage of coal, he declared martial law, placed the control of all mines in the State, which were not producing coal, in the hands of the Adjutant General of the State, and told him to go ahead and get out the coal. The miners, when asked to co-operate with the State to produce coal at once, went back to work Digitized by Google

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72 Til K R AILKOA1) TkLKO.I; VI*U Kli. for the State, AT THE OLD RATE OF PAY AND THE SAME HOURS. The mine operators took the case into Fed- eral Court, questioning the right of the Governor to declare martial law and con- tending that the seizure of the mines was illegal. In a clear-cut opinion, which even a layman could understand, Fed- eral Judge Amidon, uphelu the Governor and the State in their acts. The State then operated the mines all through the strike, except for three or four days, while negotiations were on, and except for those mines, whose owners had in the meantime reached an agreement with the miners. The miners in working for the State agreed to abide by the condi- tions of the agreement which should be reached in the Central Competitive Field. The mine owners were to be compen- sated at a fixed royalty for each ton of coal mined and sold by the State, the mines to be returned to the owners as soon as it was evident that they would be worked. The mine owners as a rule hampered the operation of mines as much as possible while they were in the hands of the State. Thus we learn that the wobblies had taught their fellowr di- rect-actionists, mine owners, the effect- iveness of sabotage. In contrast to this attitude the coal miners worked in com- plete harmony with the State, doing their utmost to increase production to relieve the shortage which was very acute in parts of the State. And the mines wore in the hands of the military, the miners working under a military officer, our Ad- jutant General. We did not try to mine coal with bayonets. We did not have to, and how much of this news got out to the national daily press? And how dis- torted was what little did get out. There is a pretty good object lesson or moral, or whatever you want to call it, or I should have said two object lessons, al- though the two of necessity go together. Object lesson No. 1 — The press of the United States is mostly owned or con- trolled by capital, which ignores or mis- represents labor news and views BUILD UP A LABOR PRESS. Object lesson No. 2 — The officials in most States, counties, cities, villages. Governments, as well as the National Government, are not workers, but most- ly lawyers, professional men, business men and capitalists, consequently as soon as they are elected they act for the class to which they belong, and labor gets the boot, as notice the injunction against the miners’ union by. a Federal Judge. BUILD UP YOUR OWN LABOR PARTY AND ELECT MEN TO OFFICE WHO ARE LABORING MEN THEM- SELVES. The organized farmers of the North- west are lighting the way for us. The way is plain and the light is dazzling. He who will not see must be blind. Cert. 2125, Dlv. 54. ARGUMENTS ADVANCED BY A NON. May I have a small amount of space and your readers’ time in order to make some protest regarding the action, or I might say, activity of your members on this road, as it certainly seems that a good, loyal employe of the company has no rights of his own any more and, plac- ing it in vulgarly, I should like to know where your members “get that stuff.” Apparently no one has any rights now except union men, and while it may be that the union has been more or less instru- mental in* obtaining higher wages in some instances, nevertheless, I believe that it is their spirit of intolerance and antagon- ism towards non-union men which has caused the employers of labor to increase the prices of their different products through a feeling of sympathy for the non-union man who is continually ha- rassed by organizers and other pests who make life miserable for a good, loyal em- ploye who is attending strictly to the company’s business first, his own next and other peoples’ not at all. For in- stance, my operator who wears a union button right in my office will not work a tap over eight hours without yelping for overtime, whereas I have worked many long years of three hundred and Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 73 sixty-five twelve-hour days and longer without any thought of overtime and I charge the union with the whole respon- sibility for present conditions. If I attempt to accommodate the dis- patcher by giving him a little information regarding a train or a little assistance such as occasionally receiving a train order after the operator has gone, this same operator will threaten to my face to have me arrested for violation of the nine-hour law; and right here Mr. Editor, allow me to state that while 1 have not the proof in black and white, neverthe- less, I consider that the former president of your organization, H. B. Perham, was chiefly responsible for this law as I have heard on good authority that he worked tooth and nail in Washington to have it enacted and I really have no doubt that he was working in connivance with other officials of your Order and some of the Congressmen who had been elected to represent the people instead of the union. I try in every manner to save money for the company and allow' thfem to op- erate as economically as possible. This enables them to accumulate more money with which to pay their employes in- creased wages from time to which I have no doubt they would voluntarily do were the bulk of the employes to work in harmony with their superiors and to the company’s interest as do I. Is this good logic not apparent to your readers? Also is it not in direct contrast with union methods which are to squeeze every dol- lar out of the company that is possible and try in every conceivable manner to cause the latter to employ every possible man which naturally makes our pro rata of pay smaller in proportion. As a means of amplification of my point I will state that I have always* made it a rule to spend considerable of my spare time around the office after hours and on Sun- day, thus frequently being enabled to ac- commodate the public and the company by handling a Western Union message or two. Now, since the road has become unionized, what is the result of such efforts? Why, sir, I am openly abused by anonymous persons along the line who call me harsh and even vulgar names and not infrequently interrupt the circuit to such an extent that I am needlessly de- tained several hours in what is some- times a futile attempt to transact a few minute’s business and as a result often go home with deeply depressed spirits due to the reception with which my Christianlike efforts have been met. These days if I make a simple request of the Operator to scrub out the depot or to perform any duties such as bedding a few stock cars, washing windows, shov- eling snow, etc., he first assures himself that his button looms up properly from all angles then refers me to Paragraph 16, Article X, General Order So-and-So, wherein contained is information to the effect that the operator is not to be an- noyed by such details. I should like to know in any of your readers’ opinion how many of we present oldtimers would have reached our present preferred posi- tions had we pursued such tactics in the days of our youth, and how do these operators of the present day expect pro- motion without merjt. Concluding, I desire to refer your read- ers to the recent coal strike. This affair was, no doubt, instigated by union men or at least men who had been Influenced by union propaganda, as I cannot believe that any such considerable body of men who would attempt such action unless they were members of a union or at least influenced by such. Should this not serve as a warning to operators? Consider the calamity resultant should every employed operator in the United States cease work and remain in concerted idleness until some fancied grievance such as, for in- stance, a six-hour day was adjusted! Think it over and have a heart. A LOYAL EMPLOYE. (Editor’s Note. — This article which was written on stationery indicating that the writer was an employe of the Santa Pe System is so rich in logic advanced by the opponents of organized labor years ago that it is thought the plea of this Digitized by L-ooQle

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74 The Railroad Telegrapher. employe will cause amusement to our readers — to learn some railroad employes are still living in the long, dreary past when unlimited hours of service and low wages were the prevailing custom.) USE OF THE TELEPHONE. Before the telephone system of train dispatching was inaugurated, one could look over a time card and see opposite the stations the letter or letters, “P,” “DP” and "NP,” which indicate the tele- graph service at the different stations. Now, we notice the letter “B,” meaning both, in forty per cent of the former tele- graph stations. This in itself shows very plainly why the roads get along with an insufficient number of operators. The reason this “copy their own or- ders*’ system is continually practiced we all know, but knowing it ourselves will not help matters any. We want the offi- cials to know how we stand regarding this and the sooner we confront them with our views the better it will be for all concerned. The trainmen in most cases are to blame. They want to get over the road an hour or so earlier and to do this they will play the part of a “scab” on every operator on the line. You all know how the trainmen ad- vocate labor unionism, become affiliated, etc., while they are around the office. It is surprising to note that a few minutes after they leave your office and head in at a siding the conductors will run to the phone and want to copy any order that will benefit him. The very prin- ciples they preach are not practiced by themselves and why? One reason is the dispatchers depend too much on this call me up at “X” sys- tem. They do not exert themselves in giving all possible help to a train at an open office. Many times when the opera- tor asks for time for a train, the “DS” will say, “Oh, he’s got time to go to X for them, then he can call me up. The train then proceeds to the next siding, heads in and the conductor goes to the phone. He has already been delayed ten to fifteen minutes to pull through the sid- ing, copy his orders, and get out of town. If conductors were prohibted from call- ing up, operators would be at these sid- ings, and if advancing orders available, the operators would have them at the switch for delivery and there would be no delay. It causes hardships On tile operators where their living quarters are in the same car with the office. You are awak- ened many times during the night by trainmen coming in for unnecessary in- formation. Some roads allow the opera- tors a call for orders copied at their of- fice outside of assigned hours. Am sorry to say we haven’t progressed that far yet, but the outlook for a like ruling is bright. There are seventeen phone booths on this 150-mile district. While we have only eight, three trick offices, two of which are terminals. The trainmen are copying as many orders as the operators themselves. It really looks like they should come under the scope of an op- erator and be ' governed accordingly. If we want to see new offices open up and new operators working, it’s up to us to say to the trainmen, thou shall not copy orders only in case of dire emergency. Cebt. 3106, Div. 61. “WHAT DO THE RELAY MEN WANT?” For many years past, in the railroad telegraph business, the monetary relation- ship between the “relay” offices and the “heavy interlock” towers was, generally speaking, as 100 is to 90; between the “relay” offices and the “block” offices as 100 is to 155. That is to say, when the relay position paid $100 per month, the heavy interlock tower paid $90, and the block office $65. Those differentials were based on one sole consideration that had always been recognized as fundamental economic law in our intensely individualistic society. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 75 Let us state that this principle, which is known as “the Iron Law of Wages,” and which considers labor power as a com- modity, has been repudiated and rejected by the recent National Labor Conference in the following vigorous language, un- der the caption: “Wages Not to Be Based on the Cost of Living.” “There is a wide-spread belief that wages should be fixed on a cost of living basis. This idea is pernicious and intolerable. It means putting progress in chains and lib- erty in fetters. It means fixing a stand- trd of living and a standard of liberty which must remain fixed. America’s workers cannot accept that proposition.” The thought embodied in the above quo- tation from “Labor’s BUI of Right,” is conceived in a new and enlarged under- standing of “The Rights of Man,” and in a word is the basic rock upon which “the new day” is to be erected, of which we hear so much nowadays. It is around this new principle of social justice that labor’s aspirations are to be developed, and the intelligent understanding of this new principle by the rank and file of the labor organizations will determine in a large measure the degree of success la- bor’s program of social progress attains. Prior to the time the United States Government assumed control of the rail- roads. the “Iron Law of Wages” was in full and absolute operation, with several slight exceptions, where powerful broth- erhoods, through long and ceaseless la- bor. were able to modify to some extent the harshness of this law as it affected their own class. W. G. McAdoo, the first Director Gen- eral of Railroads, either by direction of the President, or because of a personal belief in new principles of justice and humanity, not generally entertained by men “who are permitted” in places of great power, utterly disregarded this “Iron Law of Wages” in his supplement- ary orders remaking raUroad wages and working conditions. We will not con- sider in this paper how perfect or imper- fect this work was done, or how tenable the supplements were, when applied to archaic conditions. Suffice it to say that these supplements were conceived in a spirit animated by the desire to act in accord with a principle that is sound, viz., that labor y s not a commodity, but “the activity of human beings.” And for the reason of this contention, if for no other reason, Wm. G. McAdoo, his suc- cessor, Walker D. Hines, and President Woodrow Wilson are deserving of the highest commendation from the railroad workers of the United States. The disregarding of the old principle, however, has caused numerous jealousies, and great discontent among the workers on the railroads, because of the altered relationships, so far as dollars and cents are concerned. This discontent is ca- pable of great capitalization in the fu- ture, that can only redound to the Injury of the workers, if they do not come into a better understanding of the philosophy underlying this new order of things, which is really only in its inceptive stage. This statement applies to the telegraphers as well as other crafts. The old differentials, of which I gave men- tion, have been abandoned. The wages of the roadmen have been brought up to the wages of the relay men. This fact has caused much dissatisfaction among the men and a controversy is developing between the different classes of telegra- phers, which is now making its appear- ance in the Journal. The weakness of a controversy developed along the lines, this one is taking, should be apparent to everybody. It can only tend to create a sentiment that the relay operators feel that the roadmen are getting “too much,” instead of the fact that the relay men are not “getting enough.” We do not want any sentiment developed which would suggest a downward revision. We relay men want to emphasize the fact that we do not hold that the roadmen are get- ting too high a wage. As a matter of fact, we do not even believe that a proper estimate is put on the relative importance of the road telegrapher over that of other crafts receiving much higher wages. Nor are we jealous of the roadmen in their new sphere of prosper- ity. To the contrary, we are deeply grati- Digitized by Google

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76 The Railroad Telegrapher. fled because of their comparative well- being. This is our position, however. We insist on being elevated from monetary standpoint to the same relative position of prosperity which the road telegraphers and other crafts enjoy, and which most emphatically, relay telegraphers and heavy interlock towermen in the large cities do not now even approach. The new dictum is that wages are no longer to represent the cost of subsist- ence. We relay men subscribe to that doctrine. This new doctrine, however, does not contemplate a ‘‘dead level” of wages. In a few words, what does it mean? It means that men doing useful work in society will receive in a me- dium of purchasing power, the fullest, most aipple life compatible with reason and sound economy, instead of a mere pittance to keep the soul and body to- gether, as heretofore. Applied to the telegraphers’ case it means this: Block operators, interlock towermen, relay op- erators and train dispatchers as classes of useful workers will receive the largest wage possible for their particular work, consistent with sound logic. But this does not mean a dead level. Certain facts of human nature have got to be recognized in all social problems. One is, that the impelling power behind the thing we call incentive is the desire for the possession of an ever larger share of material things. Without this incentive, men would refuse to study and train for positions of greater responsibility and more expert skill than is necessary in positions where a lesser degree of train- ing is necessary. In all industry this fact has got to be recognized if there is to be growth. Therefore, while the teleg- raphers in positions where lesser tech- nical skill is required than is necessary in important offices will receive a wage, not based on the cost of living, but well above such cost, they will not and can- not expect to receive the maximum wage that is paid the more important positions, if a well ordered and enduring state is to be created. If they did, there would be no incentive to become expert relay men. wire chiefs and train dispatchers. It does not follow, from what has been said, that the old differentials should be re-established. However, it is self-evi- dent that basic factors which enter any consideration of the wage question will have to continue to be taken cognizance of in arriving at new differentials. For instance, while we do not intend to revert back to “the cost of living basis,” yet manifestly it will be impossible to place wages above the cost of living mark without first taking into consideration “what the cost of living is.” Our road brothers live in God’s coun- try fti nice homes, and generally, they are consequential citizens in their respective communities. The majority of the relay and heavy interlock men work In the large cities, and they live in tenement houses, so to speak, and do not cut a very prominent figure in any of the so- cial activities that contribute to make life worthwhile. Would our road broth- ers have this condition endure? We know that the answer is “ho.” There has been great unrest on the part of the relay men since the application of Supplement 13. Their Efforts to ob- tain a hearing has precipitated a con- troversy within the ranks, simply because they were misunderstood. That a bet- ter understanding might be had of our position, let us recapitulate ih a few words what we want. First, we want the principle of wages, not based on the cost of living, but on a full complete life, applied to our par- ticular case in the same degree that It has been applied to a part of our craft and to other crafts both on Che railroads and elsewhere. Second, to accomplish this end in the greatest degree^possible under, present circumstances, we believe this can best be attained through a sys- tem of standardization along lines sim- ilar to those employed by other crafts. We, therefore, urge the adoption of such a policy, and proper machinery created by our General Officers to develop this plan. We have in mind at this time the es- tablishing of as many classes that the various branches of the business dictate, Digitized by v^ooQle

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The Railkoad Teeeukaphek. and the standardizing of rates in each of these classes in accordance with the new principle, which has been briefly men- tioned. This is all we ask. Is there any- body who will say that it is not just and reasonable? Harvey C. First. "A LABOR PRESS” AND CO-OPERA- TIVE ASSOCIATION.” The proposal of a “LABOR PRESS,” in die RAILROAD TELEGRAPHER, Novem- ber issue, by Certificate twelve-twenty — should and doubtless does impress or- ganized labor, as a most vital and abso- lute need of the organizations. Because, as pointed out in his article — Certificate twelve-twenty — emphasizes the fact that we have had sufficient “free advertising and misrepresentations” through the pub- lic press, and that it is high time that organized labor goes before the public in its own daily newspapers to defend the cause and interests of its rank and file. In the face of the experiences of or- ganized labor during the past years, hav- ing been forced to fight every step of the route for every reasonable demand, and viewing our position today, the attitude of the employing corporations toward union labor and the full support and back- ing of the public press, endeavoring through their columns and pages of mis- representation against our organizations during the past year, to bring about the destruction of our unions, is it not ap- parent to all that we need our own me- dium of dally publications, and need it in addition to our respective organization journal. Certificate twelve-twenty, in his article, requested the executive heads of the big four organizations “to submit the proposi- tion to their membership.” That request should be speedily complied with, and while the project is a gigantic one, the unions are big enough, intelligent and progressively capable and well equipped to successfully handle such an enterprise with vast benefit and profit to the mem- bership. 77 While we are about it, let’s make it something worth while? Why not a labor press and a number of other additions b/ and for organized labor? For instance, WHY NOT formulate and inaugurate one big association— call it— (Union Labor co- operative association) its purposes — “go- ing into business,” and get into every avenue of business that will be of benefit and profit to our members — a daily labor press — in the larger cities, until we cover the entire nation; build factories, erect our own buildings and skyscrapers for the headquarters, of the unions with plenty of office space and store space for rental. The day of reconstruction and destruc- tion of labor unions is upon us, and it behooves every union man and woman in the ranks of organized labor to “wake up,” and “get your money to work as well as yourself,” do less talking and let us have less “investigation and less in- junction.” What we need now is action — not talk — and in the meantime, prepare to “clean house” at the polls next Novem- ber. F. H. M., Div. 60. OPERATOR vs. TELEPHONES. For some time I have been thinking of writing a letter on the above subject, thinking that it might be of some good to a few. So if you will permit the space and think it is of enough value I will be glad. Since the telephones for the use of our train dispatchers has been installed on this division for the movement of trains, I find that some of the best telegraphers wfe had at that time have become somfc of the wrorst. This is due to the fact that many of our smaller stations have no telegraphing to do other than a Western Union mes- sage once a w*eek. OSing trains and han- dling train orders is now handled by the phone. The telephone is fine as far as the purpose for w'hich it is intended is concerned. Operators at a number of points keep their sounders plugged, let their local Digitized by Google

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78 Thk Hailkoad TkLKOHAI'IIHK. batteries run down and pay as little at- tention to the wires as it is possible for them to do, in fact, there are some that feel it is next to a crime to have to send a message. Men working in relay offices notice this more than other operators, because it is necessary so many times a day to ask different ones to tell their neighbors on either side to answer their call. The fact is, they get out of practice and go backwards. If they can get the train dispatcher to handle a message for them they will phone it in preference to han- dling it by wire. Apprentices who have been promoted to the telegraph service and passed good examinations and be come proficient in handling an ordinary telegraph position, have been placed in telegraph offices and in six months’ time could not copy a message. This com- pany is at a large expense each year edu- cating these young men, fitting them for telegraph service, paying them a good salary while learning and a good bonus when they learn the art in the required time. They then promote them to tele- graph positions and expect good service. I have known of cases, when our offi- cials were passing over the line, that it was necessary to send their messages far in advance to some office that could make a decent copy, because there were only two or three offices on a district that could deliver the goods. This seems em- barrassing. The point I am trying to make is this. The opportunity is just as good now as it ever was for men to become first- class operators. It cannot be done with- out practice and there are not five offices in twenty but have the time to spare and about three hours out of each eight- hour trick could be given to this school- ing. Old timers had no such snap as the young men of the present time. We had to pay big money to learn and hustle freight and do all kinds of manual labor and be kicked around from pillar to post and take all kinds of abuse just to get a chance to practice. It would be an in- sult to the young man today to ask him to even assist us in doing some work around the station, which we were required to do. I believe if the officials of the lines where the telephones are In use could realize that their employes * were inter- esting themselves to become proficient in the telegraph service they would give their men every opportunity for advance- ment. I do not see how the men are go- ing to expect to get anywhere by neglect- ing their telegraph practice. If a good heavy job of telegraphing should be bul- letined, how many are there on any one division who could bid on it. Not only in telegraphy but in the general run of station work? The railroads tnroughout the country are looking for first-class station men. How are our boys getting lined up on that class of work? There have been cases where bids were open for station agents and men have been tried out and found lacking. Look for something better than a phone job. Get in the game and use the time you have which the company is paying ybu for to make better material for the company’s service instead of idling your time away and waiting for the clock to tell you when it is time to quit and pay day. Cebt. 810, Div. 61. “PHONE JOBS AND HELPER JOBS.” Why do we allow phone jobs and help- er jobs to exist among us? Why not pro- ject our organization by forcing these to be abolished? I am employed on a branch division in the heart of our won- derful states where agriculture, stock- raising and mining are the chief indus- tries. Patrons need immediate service to aid them in the distribution of these products. Can immediate service be se- cured with an operator on duty eight hours out of twenty-four, the helper on duty the remaining hours that the sta- tion is open who can only answer, ,rWeIl, when the agent (who is an operator) comes on duty he will find out, and you can call again tomorrow and learn to a certainty.” Perhaps the patron calls at Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 79 a phone station which by all means should be supplied with an operator and is answered in substance same as the first man was only more disgusting. The agent has to phone one of our brothers or sisters, who, for accommodation will transmit his wants to headquarters, ob- taining the desired information. In such cases if our brother or sister is too heav- ily burdened with his own duties, which he is expected to perform within eight hours and refuses to be bothered, the agent at the phone station will write, per- haps obtaining the desired information about three days after it has been re- quested, or in some cases, perhaps not at all The fellows working these phone jobs are always in demand because they are cheap help and can be held on duty for an unusual length of time without be- ing paid overtime. Why not make a change? Refuse to give conductors train orders by phone; refuse to obtain infor- mation for agents at phone stations; re- fuse to do anything that will in any way be the result of holding some good broth- er or sister in good standing out of a job. We can do it. All that we need is a little grit. an4 to feel that the union is for the good of brothers and sisters —not nons — and people who perhaps have no desire to become more than an under- paid helper or phone job agent. We have many, far too many of these jobs in our midst. At the same time, we have members of the union holding up-to- date cards and out of a job. No place for them — regular men all working — no ex- tra work. Besides injustice to our union, think of the injustice to the producers of es- sential products for our living? They are handicapped becanse movement of their special product is uncertain. They don't know what to figure upon. Per- haps some stock buyer is eager to move his stock hut uncertain just what to do on account of being unable to get his wire market report. Brothers, sisters, I have worked as helper, as phone agent and as agent-op- erator. I know the facts about each kind of a job. If you are a helper, the easiest way out is to say, “When the agent comes I will ask him,” it a phone agent, “I will call So-and-so on the phone (per- haps Mr. So-and-so is one of our busy brothers), afid see what he Can learn,” and if you are an agent-operator, you are too busy with your own duties during the eight hours to be bothered. Yet, most of us are good natured fellows who reply, “Yes, I will see what I can find out and let you know.” * Believing that most of us would like to see the helper and phone agent jobs abolished, and operator or agent-opera- tor positions created, I ask for a state- ment from others. A SISTER, Cert. 3319, Div. 130. TIME AND ONE-HALF FOR SUNDAYS AND HOLIDAYS. I have read so many different argu- ments in regard to Sunday and holiday work, “as far as it concerns telegraphers” in the Railroad Telegrapher during the past year that I am taking the liberty of giving my humble opinion on this sub- ject. We may talk* and talk about hpw many days per week or month an operator should be called upon to work, but as we all very well know a great many of us are employed In towers, yard offices, junction points, etc., at which points necessity demands that we be on duty Sundays and holidays as well as on week days. Now there is no doubt that the majority of brothers who work on reg- ular scheduled seven-day-per-week po- sitions would be “mighty pleased” if some satisfactory agreement could be reached between our Order and the Railroad Ad- ministration which would give us one day of rest a week, or two or three a month. But from the ruling made by Mr. McAdoo, our fromer Director General, in granting us Supplement No. 13, which deprived us of what little vacation we Digitized by Googk

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80 The Kailroad Telegrapher. did receive, it seems to me we are a long way from the one day in seven prop- osition, as far as most telegraphers are concerned. I believe that all members of our Order who are working seven-day-a-week posi- tions are entitled to time and one-half for their Sunday and holiday work, and furthermore that they discuss this mat- ter at their meetings and among them- selves and also bring these subjects to the attention of their local and general chairmen and also the Grand Lodge Offi- cers and notify them that these matters should be brought to the attention, and thoroughly discussed with the Railroad Administration, as soon as possible, and furthermore that we stand back of them in their efforts. With the majority of workers in every class of industry being paid time and one-half and in many cases double time for Sunday and holiday work, there seems to be no further need of dis- cussion as to whether or not we are also entitled to it, for as we well know there is no danger of telegraphers ever getting anything they are not entitled to. Are w’e not of as much account to the railroads as block signal maintain- ed, plumbers, car inspectors and other railroad employes, who receive time and one-half for Sunday and holiday work? Think it over, brothers, and then “get busy” oh this subject. Cert. 1181, Div. 41. COMMISSIONS. Last month I handled One hundred Western Union messages For which I received One dollar and twelve cents Because we are allowed Only ten per cent on the cash We handle And I think We should receive Ten per cent both ways, For more than three-fourths Of our messages Originate with* the big offices That do not receive commission. And are paid at that end, Which means that we Handle the bulk of our business For nothing. I figure Five minutes For each message, Counting receiving, Delivery and reports, And that would be more than Eight hours’ work For a dollar and twelve cents, Which may satisfy The Western Union But it doesn’t satisfy Me. I thank you. Cebt. 107, Div. 48. FOR CONTINUING FRATERNAL ITEMS The question as to whether the “Fra- ternal” columns of our official organ should be kept up or discontinued, has become quite a weighty problem with some of the brother correspondents throughout the country. Much has been said for and against it. Personally, I am very much for it. An average of nine out of every ten operators who read the magazine will first turn to the news items of their own divisions, to see if any- thing has occurred that they haven’t heard of. Next they will turn to the news items of some other division, covering some railroad they have previously been employed on, and see what is going on there and what their old friends are do- ing. A very large percentage of us read the “Fraternal” column first. This being the case, why is so much noise being raised relative to discontinuing them. As several of the correspondents have previously stated, the Fraternal columns of our official organ act in the same ca- Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 81 parity as the paper from the old home town does, be it daily, weekly, semi- monthly or monthly. We are always glad to get it and will peruse every word of its contents, even to the “Cornfer grocery store's advertisement,” before laying it aside. Having in a way shown my willingness to support the “Fraternal” columns in the Railroad Telegrapher, not because cause I am one of its correspondents, but because I sincerely believe that this part of the magazine is by far the most important and, therefore, indispensable to a large percentage of the readers of the Railroad Telegrapher.. I say, “Let the Fraternal Columns Stay.” Cert. 1148, Div. 61. THE RELAY TELEGRAPHER. With reference to Cert. 2671, Div. 59's write-up on the relay telegrapher in the November, would like to say. I’ve worked all positions from towerman up to assistant chief dispatcher, and in my estimation, the relay job has them all stopped when it comes to strenuous work. There are ‘‘lulls” in the train dispatch- er's eight hours, also in the towerman’s, but the relay man has some one calling him all the time. It’s give this and that one “eight” and some, ndt satisfied with calling on the wire, call on the telephone and ask: “When as I going to get a man on this or that wire?” and then if you answer a little cross or in an annoyed tone, they’ll say you’ve a “swelled head” because you hold a relay job. I’ve been wondering if Cert. 59 of Division 124 ever held down a relay office job. I am in doubt. The facts in the case are: if a towerman is worth from 80 to 90 cents an hour, the relay man is worth at least 30 or 35 cents more an hour, for the reason that he must meet and cope with all kinds of Morse senders and receivers. Some A-l, others — well pretty good operators, and still others operators. "Qo.M Digitized by L-ooQle

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FRATERNAL NOTICE All items for [this [department must be in the hands of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer on or before the 25th day of the month in order to insure their insertion in the following issue. Springfield, Mass., Div. No. 38. . 14 POINTS HOW TO EMBALM AND BURY A DIVISION. 1. Don’t attend the meetings. 2. Don't do anything to help the other brother so he can attend. 3. If you come be sure you are late. 4. Don't take any part in the meeting. 5. Don't pay your dues and assessments. 6. Don’t do anything to help make the meeting a success. 7. Take everything for granted; don’t in- vestigate. 8. If things are running smooth, start something. 9. Consider the meeting is conducted for your benefit alone. 10. Don’t have any write-up in This Telegrapher. 11. If members drop out. don’t ask them the reason. 12. Try not to encourage your officers. 13. If the man next to you is a NON, use your influence to keep him out. 14. Find fault after the meeting is over. Cert. 573. New York, N. Y., Div. No. 44. Long Island R. R. — A suggestion endorsing the agitation for n more spirited interest in the Plumb Plan was taken up at our last meeting which was largely attended and a committee was appointed to co-operate with other commit- tees in the interest of the project. The Ladies’ Auxiliary has moved its lodge rooms from Jamaica into a central location more available to the homes of the mem- bers along the Atlantic Division. More than one hundred dollars was turned over to Sister Terry, who has been sick for many months in her home at Terryville, N. Y. Some agents are not on their jobs when trains are due and passengers have to pay their fares on the trains. While my wife and three children were sick with diphtheria I want to thank the L. A. for sending me many pineapples. Bro. Adams is making an effort to have the rule enforced that towermen be relieved of scrubbing floors and washing tower win- dows. A new rule will bring joy to the hearts of many members. We can engage in other lines of endeavor if it does not interfere with company business. General Chairman Howell read the new schedule at the last meeting, followed by a long discussion and the asking of several questions which he answered to the satis- faction of the members. After wishing one another a “Mem Christmas” and a “Happy New Year" the members departed for their homes. P. T. Mackin, 2429 Woodhaven Ave., Ozone Park. Chicago, III.,. Div. No. 91. A year ago last August Bro. Charles Sex- ton, a member of this division, died, leaving his widow, Mrs. Louise Sexton, Euclid Park Station, w’ith two small boys to care for. The members on the C. & W. I. Railway took up a collection at that time for flowers and having a small amount left over after paying for the floral emblem, we donated it lo her. Recently she was obliged to go to the hos- pital for a serious operation and wre took up another collection amounting to $80.00. which was handed to her to help pay the expense incurred at that time. Mrs. Sexton, under date of Dec. 2, 1919, desires me In this pub- lic manner to express her sincere thanks to those w'ho so generously came to her aid when it w'as so greatly needed, which kind- ness will long be remembered. C. H. Shafer, Cert 57, Div. 91. Elgin , Joliet dr Eastern R. J2.— It has been several years since any notes from the “J” appeared in the Journal, but I will try and have a write-up every month if you will send me any news you hear of to “RH.” East Joliet R. R. mail, or to my residence, 203 Ridgewood Avenue, Joliet, III.. IT. S. mail. By so doing I feel that we may become better acquainted as well keep up an inter- est and help line up the very few nons still on the line. J. C. Peterson, “KO,“ our extra dispatcher, is on second East End owing to Chief Dis- patcher Brooks’ illness. Digitized by U-ooQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 83 A. E Widup. third at Walker, and wif-' are the proud parents of a 7-pound girl, born Friday, Dec. 19th. Bro. Widup informs in-' both mother and daughter are doing nicely. Bro. J. Iiinthome is relieving Bro. J. Pur- cell, third “WA," on a trip east. Bro. Dodge relieved Bro. J. F. White on second ‘VMS,” spending Xmas with his mother at Clinton. Ind. Bro. Dresser has challenged the C., B. & Q. operators at Aurora to a bowling match and they have called his bluff and set a date for the match, so it’s up to Harry to secure i team of five operators to carry the bluff. Will try and let you know the result. Harry failed to show up for the second match with jours truly. The outcome of our last match most have given him “cold feet." Now that I have made a start, let us keep the ball rolling and give the boys another reason for wanting their Journal. So send along your notes and next month will show a longer column. E. P. Fugate, Cert. 5685. Virginia, Minn., Div. No. 127. /hdtifA, Missabe Northern By.— On account of running ore on Sunday the meeting Nov. 9th was postponed until Jan. 11th. Bro. F. W. Hill, a new member, has been appointed temporary agent Calumet in ab- sence of Bro. C.' J. Keenan. A general reduction of force followed the close of the ore season and a lot of bumping is looked for. Bro. Chief Telegrapher Clark is very like- ly to make a study of various menus since being fined 25 cents for buying a 15-cent breakfast. We are at a loss for words when asked where he bought that feed. We aiv sure it was not in Hibblng or Proctor. Bro. W. H. Smith, agent Rainy Junction, now enjoying quite a few of his Sundays in Duluth, due to the efforts of our organiza- tion to eliminate Sunday work as much as possible. Bro. Smith is an old timer on the n»d and a staunch member of the O. R. T. and stands strong for our slogan of “Good Service” to our employers. He .expects to be present at all the meetings in the future, as be considers, as does practically all the other members, that his time there is well spent. Bro. Gilchrist, agent Wolf, evidently finds much less news in the Herald since the close of the baseball season. We understand Bro. Granger, agent Mar- ble, is a little undecided just how many large same licenses he will buy this fall during hii annual vacation. Anyone not being present in a battle and wanting to know what It sounds like, should so hunting deer on a Sunday around this vicinity. Bro. G. A. Rutter has departed for the Pacific Coast with his invalid wife. We hope for her recovery. Thanks to Bro. C. S. Ross for notes. Cert. 52. Grand Trunk Pac. Ry., D/v. 1., All Division One Members — Dues notice and remittance forms for term January 1st to June 30th, 1920, were mailed to all members as per address recorded De- cember 5th, 1919, the amount being $8.00 per term for all members filling scheduled posi- tions, or $16.00 for the full year, and $4.00 per term for all members filling un- scheduled positions, or those out of the service entirely. As division cards are now issued for the full year, all member^ are urgently requested to remit for an annual card if at all possible. In doing so you cut down the expense to your division just ont- half In the matter of collecting dues. 'Members holding insurance in the Mutual Benefit Department will please bear in mind that these assessments are due and should be paid at the same time as division dues. All members have until February 29th to pay both dues and insurance assessments before they become delinquent. Should you fail to pay your Insurance assessments be- fore that date, it is absolutely necessary to fill out and sign a regular insurance re- instatement form and file it with Grand Secretary- Treasurer Bro. C. B. Rawlins, St. Louis, Mo., before you can be reinstated in the Order. I merely mention this so all concerned will know what’s necessary to do in order not to fall into the delinquent line. In addition to this if you become delinquent in the insurance department and anything should happen you, your beneficiary would not be able to collect the insurance. There- fore, to be up-to-date, both division dues and insurance assessments should be paid on or before the 29th day of February, 1920. Division dues should be remitted direct to General Secretary -Treasurer Bro. D. I* Shaw, London, Ontario, and insurance assessments direct to C. B. Rawlins, St. J^ouis, Mo. Once more members are requested to ad- vise the General Secretary-Treasurer when making a' change in permanent address. By the time this reaches you no doubt the long-looked-for schedule will be in your possession, that is, the schedule covering Canadian lines, and it is hoped the schedule covering lines located in the United States will also soon be in the possession of those concerned. This long delay in distributing the new schedule Is something which your officers have no control over. Digitized by Google

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Tin-; U.wiJiOAi* 'l’KLi^iit vrii ki»\ Wishing all members the compliments of the season, I am. Fraternally, D. L. Shaw, O S. & T. Second and Third Districts — Our loca^ chairman “ball«d me out” a few days ago and accused me of spending all my time writing to young ladies. In order to prove to the hoys that I still have some time left besides my private cor- respondence, I shall be glad to put in a few items to start the year right. All the members of this section will please remember that they must promptly pay their dues to our G. S. & T. and should also make every effort to get in the few nons on the district and make 1920, which is a “leap year,” a hundred per cent strong. Bro. A. •U. Metivier, third trick dis- patcher on East End Richmond, has finally got buckled up and with his beloved is on a trip to Boston. Bro. A. Allard, second Sher- brooke, also got the rope around his necK. Congratulations. Bro. P. L*. Bonner, first Richmond, pro- moted to train dispatcher. There would be a lot more to add to this write-up to make it somewhat nifty, but I will wait till next month and be in better position to give you the news of the dis- tricts if you boys will send me a few- notes. I have not received a single note from any of you in the past six months and the re- sult is no write-up when you open your R. R. Telegrapher each month. Remember, “No card, no favors,” you who are working with the nons, and get them to join us, especially those holding regular scheduled positions. Our local chairman will send you all the application blanks you can use. Don’t get sore when “CR" is piled up and does not give as prompt service as you would like to have. He’s doing his best. "UN” and “RO” are right on the job, too. Cert. 2781. “Big Four” R. R., Div. 3. Chicago Division — The Star City O. R. T. Club, recently or- ganized by the operators of the various rail- roads entering Dafayette, held a card party and dance on the regular meeting night, December 1, and a very enjoyable evening was had by all the nearly 300 persons, in- cluding a great number of trainmen and other railroaders in this vicinity. The boys on the “Big 4” have not been turning out at these meetings as they should, however. The Monon and Wabash and other rallroaos have been doing their part toward making this club organization a success. We hope all the “Big 4” boys who possibly can will attend hereafter. Bro. Chenault relieved the agent at Wal- dron a few days. Sister Headley is back on third Earl Park. Bro. Earl Francis has returned from quite a long sick spell, displacing Bro. Morlan. Kankakee third, now relieving the operators at "MI” a few days. Extra McDaniels opened second Fowler temporarily on account of heavy business caused by the coal strike. We are doing the biggest business done for several years. Passenger trains taken off on account of the strike will soon be placed on their old schedules again. The adjustment board at Washington turned us down flat on our contention for the $10.00 a month approximate increase which we claimed should be added to our salary as a basis in figuring our present salary under Supplement 13 to General Order 27. It seems that we are not In favor with the Board at Washington, as the car whackers have received another additional increase and substantial back pay; and the trainmen nine cents an hour additional in- crease with other concessions from the Board. The right way to get anywhere is to have a solid front, every man up-to- date. which is not now the case on this division. Keep after the nons. show them no favors and give them to understand why; also watch your senator and congressman vote on the proposed labor laws now- before Congress and be governed accordingly when they solicit your votes. G. S. Rainey, L.. C. C. V. D. Division— If anything is left unturned that might succeed in placing the working people of the United States in the bondage of slavery as absolute as anything that ever covered the negro, it will not be the fault of the autocratic financial pow-ers that the over- sight occurred. How- well I remember the cartoon that appeared in a daily paper dur- ing the w-ar, illustrating how the working- men of Germany were lodged in prison for affiliating with legitimate labor unions and exercising the right to strike. But peace has not even been declared, when the two large law--making bodies of our own coun- try openly discuss and consider the oppor- tunity to shackle upon that army of free born Americans the very autocratic things which the world fought Germany to abolish. When millions are claimed to have been spent in a political campaign for the elec- tion of a representative to Washington, as the papers just recently indicated was done in Michigan. I w-ould like to know- what kind of underhanded work is expected of such a representative. Perhaps some one blundered in Michigan. But how many others have Digitized by Google

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 85 gotten by without being discovered? Are ail these things not conclusive evidence of the need of a Workingmen's Political In- formation Bureau? An institution to point out to the oppressed worker his friend and enemy In politics. Past President Perham has founded in St. Louis what is known as the Workingmen’s Political Information Bureau. The expense of operating will not be large, yet the plan needs support, and there Is no limit to the good effect which can be derived by the worker. The writer advises the member- ship to donate to a fund, either a system division or a part of such division, and be- come a partner to the support of the Work- ingmen’s Political Information Bureau, and * receiver of its benefits. Address H. B. Perham, 1378 Montclair avenue, St. Louis, Mo., for further information. Dnr. Cor. C., St P., M. & O., Div. 4. Western Division — Local Chairman Tenney visited at St. James December 8th, relieved by A. M. Johnson of Merrlam, who helped out on St. James side wire several weeks. Bro. Grant Morrison, Elmore, has re- signed. Bro. A. E. Stemple, St. Peter, is on G6 days’ leave owing to ill health. Bro. Robt. Beyer relieved by Bro. Mynard on Org first on account of his arm playing out and a general breakdown, is visiting his daughter in St. Paul. Sister J. W. McCarthy on second Org. Bro. E. A. Tyler and family have taken up their new home at Humboldt. Sister Anderson relieving on second Kasota. All passenger trains “pulled off’’ account of ooal shortage have been restored. Bro. S. B. Swiningson and little son were in Le Sueur recently. Sam is soon going to have brand new, up-to-date depot at St. James. T. J. Hubs of Merriam, recently returned from France, is up-to-date again. C. R. Williams, in busines at Mankato for three years, has returned to railroad work. Practically every telegrapher on the road dealres my interpretation of the application of No. 8 to Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27, and I have been working over- time and Sundays to do so. We recognize in this application the foundation for some complaint inasmuch as it gives to some more than to others and in cases where no Sunday work was performed during 191S it gives no increase whatever. But it should also be borne in mind that the application of this interpretation is made not through conferences of your general committee, hut purely based on the Sunday work performed in 1918. It momentarily destroys the in- equalities that have heretofore existed, but we believe makes it possible for a readjust- ment of salaries at some later date. The interpretation carries with it much money, and to those whom it applies it will be a great help at’ this time, and lends en- couragement to those to whom It does not apply, as it makes it possible for a further readjustment. It surely is gratifying to note the rapid manner in which the “dues’* are coming In. Congress apparently is working overtime to decide when the railroads shall be xo- turned to their original owners. With the closing of 1919 organized labor will have completed the most wonderful year ever written. There still remains much beneficial work to perform. Let us all see that we do our individual duty to our or- ganization, to our co-workers and those who are dependent upon us. I hope you all enjoyed a merry Christmas and wish you a happy and prosperous new year. My personal thanks to you for the pleasing manner in which you have made it possible for me to sei*ve you during the year just closed. Yours fraternally, D. O. Tenney, G. S. & T. Nebraska Division — We are very nearly 99 per cent solid. With a little effort by the members the few nons whose names can be secured from the local chairman could be lined up with but very little difficulty. Bro. D. K. Crouch recently returned from the army, displacing Bro. R. Wood on third Ferry. Sister F. A. Hanson displaced Babcock, Oakland third, who took Pender second. Bro. A. H. Owen, recently mentioned as a non, was a mistake, for he has always been a loyal supporter of the O. R. T. Bro. W. T. Parchen of Craig was an Emerson visitor recently. Our general chairman advises of the ap- plication of Interpretation 8. This means a lot more money for the agents and telegra- phers. A large number of railroads ignored the interpretation and only after much ef- fort and endless hearings at Washington was the Order able to secure its application. As usual there w'ere many matters of vital importance that could have been discussed at a meeting here on this division pertain- ing to the application of Interpretation No. 8 at wdilch each attendant could have been familiarized wdth its provisions. However, our past records show what to expect in the way of meetings. Until there are more at- tendants it is useless to get a hall, and as a result the membership will have to rely upon their mail for enlightenment. Wo Digitized by Google

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86 The Railroad Telegrapher. should look after this matter of meetings and see if by early spring we cannot be in shape to get together occasionally, if for no other purpose than to get acquainted. Cert. 305. Northern Division — By Interpretation No. 8 to Supplement No. 13, those who worked Sunday during 1918 will receive a considerable increase in their hourly rate, some more than others. It has caused many inequalities on account of some working full eight hours on Sundays, some only a few hours and some did not work at all. As the new rate is based upon the num- ber of hours worked the latter will not be affected, and those who worked only a few hours will not get as much of an increase as those who worked full eight hours, but your committee had nothing whatever to do with the spread of this increase. It is a rul- ing handed dowm from Washington, in con- troversy nearly fifteen months and Anally decided In favor of the men. Your commit- tee thought it practicable to insist upon the application of this ruling, even though it would cause inequalities for the time being, rather than to lose it altogether. Our case before the board in Washington since Dec. 4th calls for standardization and equalization of rates for all positions upon the railroads under Government control, and we hope that this will wipe out all such Inequalities and the members, will feel that our officers are doing all in their power to secure and maintain a fair and impartial deal for all. This division is suffering the worst weather ever known in its history, delaying the heavy business we have been handling for months, especially coal, so badly needed in many parts of the country. From Nov. 25th to Dec. 18th the temperature was all the way from 5 to 35 below' every day, with plenty of snow, making railroading very dis- agreeable. We note with a feeling of pride Local Chairman Bones' interesting article in the December Telegrapher. Our old friend Congressman W. J. Burke from Penn was about right when he re- marked upon the Aoor of the Senate recently that the Cummins bill w*as but an invitation for the railroad men of this country to be- come law breakers and that the workers of America would not stand for this. Bro. Wondrowitz, third Solon Springs, called suddenly to his old home at Hillsboro, Wis., by the unexpected death of his sister. He has our sympathy in his sad bereave- ment Your local chairman is enjoying a pleas- ant visit from his mother, Mrs. L. L. Mitchell of Brockton, Mont., whom he has not seen for four years, also a visit from sister, Miss Florence, from Brookings, S. D. Bro. \Velch also has been a visitor on numerous occasions the past few W'eeks, and L. N. Judge, recently second Ashland, paid ye scribe a pleasant visit. Bro. H. L. Tonolia was recently married. We extend our hearty good wishes for their happiness and prosperity. Bro. J. J. Moriority was relieved by Bro. G. W. Welch recently a few days on account of the death of his wife’s father, a switch- man in head of lakes yard, who had both legs cut off under a car. No one contributed any news for this write-up. A line from each of you would help. **X,” Cert. 330. Union Pacific R. R., Div. 6. Western Division — Bro. “Happy” Piers, Evanston, is now dispatching trains. We are all glad to note his advancement and wish him success. Bro. Whittaker at Evanston has been on the sick list over a month. Bro. Gamble, agent Peterson, has re- turned to work after a month’s illness. Bro. Nicholas has returned from a trip South and bid in second Knight. Bro. Weber bid in Arst there and Bro. Johnson, Arst Emory. It is now Bro. Cronin at Emory, l^ro. Graham, third Carter; Bro. Parkinson, first Church Buttes, and Bro. McAllister, third Evanston. Three tricks opened at Bridger were on the last bulletin. Bro. Drum on Arst trans- ferred from the C., R. I. & P. Bro. Bailey, first Granger, bid in the agency there. All our old members are up-to-date, work- ing regularly. The two nons at Bridger and three at Rock Springs have application blanks and have promised to come in this month. Don’t let them forget their promises. John Ax bid in relief agency eighth and ninth dis- tricts. With the two dollars per day ex- pense money he should be able now to take out a card. Bro. Monroe. Green River office, recently purchased a Buick and we have had snow and cold weather ever since. Bro. Pirtle, agent Wahsatch, visited Den- ver and wras relieved a few days by Bro. Ross, Chicago. Some brother or sister at Ogden, Green River, Rawlins or other places on the line send me a fewr notes each month. H. D. Porter, Cert 548, Box 602. Evanston, Wyo. Kansas Division — Bro. Crose, agent Wilson, is in Kansas City hospital. Agent Meyer, Victoria, wTas off three days on account of the death of his mother. No extra men; office run by clerks. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 87 Hays residents were awakened about 7 a. m. November 7th by terrific explosions caused by Standard Oil gasoline tanks ex- ploding from the backfire of an auto truck in the building, causing the death of eight persons, scores being injured. The fire held up trains four hours, burning 15,000 gallons gasoline, one elevator with, 10,000 bushels of wheat and several residences. The station force and section men at Rus- sell contributed ten dollars for a nice floral wreath to bereaved family of Edward Lini- han. foreman section 41, who was drowned in the city dam there while hunting ducks in boat which capsized. Bro. Skaggs, Walker agency, relieved TB" Smith, second Plainville, while he went to Colorado and brought back a bride. His trunk was checked at Longmont. Colo., with different kinds of kitchen utensils tied on and instructions to add on when it ar- rived in Plainville. Every kind of junk imaginable was attached to it. Agent Mc- Conigly was going to charge him excess, but TB" had a box of good cigars handy. Bro. Skaggs also relieved Agent Markle, Codell, a few days while he was welcoming a new arrival at his home. There are no nons on the Western District of this division. Let’s keep it that way. Bro. Roll relieving Bro. Baker, Circleville. several weeks, and Bro. R. E. Anderson re- lieved Bro. Lehman at Duluth 30 days. Extra work on Eastern District has be- come so thin that Bro. Hockensmith, East End relief agent, took third Manhattan. Bro. Sam B. Scott, who went to France with the Marines and returned safely, is now on Manhattan second after nursing some bad burns for the last six weeks from a can of oil exploding in a hot stove at Ellsworth. Bro. Hart, Topeka, second, is nursing* a broken wrist as a result of too much speed on a skittish bicycle while going home from work a few nights ago. Bro. Lukes has bid in *Muncie agency. Now that Joe has living rooms there we sug- gest that he send for the young lady at St. Mary. He was relieved at “Z,” Kansas City nights, by Bro. Kullie, relieved at Camp Funston by Bro. Hockensmith and he at Manhattan by Bro. John Henderson. Bro. Fish, relieved at Schroyer agency by Bro. English, has gon^ to California for his health. We sincerely hope he may return fully recovered. Bro. Carson, agent Salina, ba« also gone to California to look over sev- eral land propositions, expecting later to make his home there. Bro.Leander, Minneapolis, secured the ap- plication of Sister Jessie Jones at Lindsey, and Bro. Campbell, Perry, that of Bro. Spohr at Newman. Someone kindly page Bro. Fenton Van Buren Weeks at Belleville and ascertain if the coal shortage has caused him to hiber- nate in some hole. Have you been reading Ed. White’s “U. P. Family Bulletin"? It's worth while even though he does insist that the cow ate the dynamite. Those ex-representatives of the old order of things in the tragic department will now join in that old refrain, entitled "Where, Oh Where, Is My Wandering Job." If some good news doesn’t reach them shortly they will all be worn to a shadow of their former well-fed jolly selves. Another one of the ravages of war. We are pleased to note a recent article in the Journal that the M., K. & T. is now under a new management. Considerate of the employes. To have employes under you who can he defended on to take an interest in their work you must yourself be efficient men, taking the same interest and pleasure in your work as you would in your own private business. Otherwise they may only reflect your own attitude. Consider yourselves as partners in the business, boys, and perhaps in time you may become one. It is rumored that Bro. R. B. Moore, "GN" Kansas City, was recently married. Bro. Martin, back from an extended visit, is now on Lillis second. Bro. Brenner, who visited homefolks at Soldier recently, has resigned as division correspondent. You hoys who are Inter- ested in a write-up each month send me a few notes. The Union Pacific has started the new year with a new president and a new vice-presi- dent in charge of traffic and we can assure them that we stand ready to assist in every way to maintain that standard of excellence and if possible making the Union Pacific sc larger and better railroad. We are proud of our record in the past, whether it was in earnings, buying Liberty Bonds or in acci- dent prevention. Several on the main line and Plainville and McPherson branches attended the claim prevention meeting at Salina freight station Sunday, Dec. 14th. More should attend these meetings and learn things you should know for your own benefit as well as the com- pany’s, as you do not have to attend these meetings on your own time. Put in over- time and you will be paid for it. Station helpers being furnished from Omaha and forced upon agents came in for some hard knocks at this meeting. Almost every agent present entered his protest on this method of getting them. They wish to pick their help and not have a good man go to make a place for a-n Omaha student. Most of them are looking for a white collar job and know nothing of a station helper’s duties. Digitized by Google

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88 The Railroad Telegrapher. Moving the express and Western Union business up town at Lincoln Center will cut Bro. Brady’s commission. Bro. Bush, Vesper, is enjoying a visit with his brother from the Navy. I am indebted to Bro. C. C. Smith and Bro. Hook for assistance in this write-up. I would like to locate another good brother like them. Boys, when you think of a few • notes drop me a card. Don't save them up ; I wili bunch them here. R. F. Dewhirst, Cert. 333, Beverly, Kan. Canadian Pacific Ry., Div. 7. Revelstoke Division — Bro. Holder, agent Albert Canyon, is be- ing relieved by Bro. Roman. Bro. Hyham bid in second Stoney Creek on account of there being no living quarters at Leanchoil. Bro. Ingles, off on account of sick rela- tives, relieved by Bro. Whittaker, relieved by Bro. Gardener. Bro. “Scotty” Allen, Donald, has gone to Ashcroft for two months. “Scotty,” look out for the Redskins. Bro. G. M. Ross appointed night yard mas- ter at Field, putting Taft agency up for bid. The recent meeting at Revelstoke was held in the afternoon and not many brothers from East End were in. I wish some brother on West End would send me a few notes. “Sy.” Beavermouth, Cert. 1682. Esquimalt and Nanaimo Ry. — A meeting was held in Duncan, Nov. 22nd, which was a big success, but regretably that only nine members put in an appearance, viz., Local Chairman Lang and Bros. Grif- fin, Fawcett, G. W. and F. W. Anglim, Mc- Coll, Dry, O’Regan and Nickerson. We were all disappointed because General Chairman Gilbert could not be with us, but hope he will be able to attend the next one. The usual order of business was dispensed with and new business discussed. A vote of thanks was given to Bro. and Mrs. Fawcett for the very tasty refresh- ments they served. Bro. Nickerson deserves the praise he re- ceived for making the trip frorn Courtenay and Duncan in his car. Bro. Armstrong was off a few days shoot- ing deer. >] < ( ^ Bro. Firth, sick for a few days, was re- lieved by Bro. Barr. Bro. Moffatt on an extended leave. Still growling about no notes. Come through, some of you fellows, with a few. Qualium Beach, a new agency, is up for bid. A good job for someone. Don’t forget your dues this month. Get them all in to Bro. Wilton as soon as you can. Cert. 2947. New York Central R. R., Div. 8. Electric Division — Beginning with this new year, let every- one get after the nons and make this divi- sion solid. Explain our liberal insurance and sick benefits. Call their attention to the benefits they have received and how many more they will receive in future if they will come in and do their part. Keep after themj brothers and sisters, vigorously, energetic- ally and persistently. Our fifth annual contest for ten turkeys, December 17th, was a decided success, hav- ing a large attendance at both morning and evening sessions. That grand and glorious spread laid out by our distinguished enter- tainment committee, Bro. Lester, chairman, was heartily enjoyed by everyone, even the rose buds played a very prominent part. Our eminent general chairman, Bro. Morey, attended both sessions and very ably explained up-to-the-minute proceedings in Washington, which everyone was most anx- ious to hear. ' Bro. Moss presented his wife, an accom- plished pianist, who entertained with fav- orite selections greatly enjoyed by all. His wonderful choice for a musical home calls for congratulations. Maintainer Rhuland, Mount Vernon, con- ducted the turkey contest, the lucky winners being Bros. Eidt, 6483; McGrath, 851; Brusie, 2657 ; McCarthy, 3392 ; Howarth, 2162; Powell, 2926; Wm. Cummings, 798; Mrs. D. Campbell, 3806 ; N. Aaronowitz, 2353, and H. W. Penny, 4083. Each win- ner was given a $6 check, the retail price for a ten-pound turkey. Every member of Division 8 is welcome to take part in this annual turkey contest by selling or paying for $3 worth of tickets, the net proceeds of which is used to build up our sick benefit fund for the coming year, which pays a dollar a day or seven per week, after two weeks' illness, for the full time of such sickness; a small amount these times, to be sure, but a big help in time of need. Benefits become effective six months from date of application. Our regular meetings should be just as well attended as our turkey contests. With such an attendance as the one Dec. 17th, arguments, discussions and debates would accomplish more than at present ; those gates at 106th street, North White Plains and Croton, for instance — down with them, brothers, for good and all time ; interbidding for capable men is paramount at present, the last cut in expenses demonstrated effec- tively the dire necessity for this action. “Bell.” Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 89 Mohaick Division — Bro. E. D. Teller, “SS 2,” Albany, home sick for the past six months, wishes to thank all the boys In his vicinity for kind favors. Bra Hopkins bid In third, and Bro. Suth- erland first “SS MO” Mohawk ; Bro. Wah- len bid in second “SS PN” Pattersonville, and Bro. Furman second “SS FO” Fort Plain. Let us try and have a meeting once a month and arrange to have receptions, so- cials, suppers, dances, musicales, etc., and every member of the N. Y. C. and W. S. attend. Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Bro. Cavanaugh and wife. I cannot make this .write-up a success every month without some help, which will be greatly appreciated. Help Une up the few nons on the division, brothers, and start the year 1920 100 per cent strong. Cert. 1890. “Monon Route/' Div. 9. Northern Division — Bro. Murphy, third Westfield Tower, has gone to I. C. general offices in Chicago. We wish him success. Bra Girard, relieved by Mike Hunt on Monticello days, on a 90-day trip to Califor- nia. Bro. Wrenn, second Monon, while on com- mittee work with Bro. Hollin,- Lafayette, was relieved by a new, up-to-date man from the “Pensy.” Bro. Cupka, agent Westfield, does no "OSing” now since the tower is in operation and can put his time in making up forms “58” and “71” and get his records up-to- date. General Secretary #and Treasurer Rees, Francesville, while on committee work, was relieved by Relief Agent Bro. Thome of Mitchell, the garden spot of the world. Bro. Dooley, first Belt Junction, was off sick a few days, relieved by Hardesty, new man. Bro. Fulmer, second Cedar Lake, who re- cently worked third South Hammond on ac- count of sickness there, says he made the biggest day’s pay that day that he ever drew- R. “Sk,” Cert. 213. Southern Division — Bro. McCarthy relieved Bro. Speer, second McDoll, while on committee work incorpor- ating Supplement 13 into our w'orking agree- ment, which was signed up Dec. 13th and went to the printers. We should soon have a copy. Bra Hunt, second Orleans, relieved Bro. Rogers. North street Lafayette ticket agent, who dislocated his shoulder trying to stop one of the Purdue cars but wasn’t quite heavy enough. Bro. Jackwood, second Salem, relieved a few days by Mike Hunt on account of sick- ness. Bro. Schmaltz relieved on second West Baden a few days later went to Bedford second, vice Bro. Roach. Marlott missed getting the last card, which leases him to fight his own battles with the officials. First, second and third Clay City Tower new jobs, will give some of the extra boys a chance. The Star City Telegraphers* Club, com- posed of all roads entering Lafayette and any boys on line, had a dance and card party in Lafayette, Monday night, December 1st, with a good attendance, paying expenses and rent for a year and then had money left for the treasury'. R, “Sk," Cert. 213. Philadelphia & Reading R. R., Dtv. 10. Agents, Beware — Through the efforts of a little gathering of railroad men in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on June 9th, 1886, The Order of Railroad Telegraphers was born, to guard the inter- ests of the agents and telegraphers em- ployed on the various railroads in the United States. How well it has succeeded can best be demonstrated by the numerous schedules it has negotiated in the past years and what it has done more recently, this year. Let us think of that long twelve hours, etc. Has it done its duty? Is it doing Its duty? Let’s look back to the Philadelphia & Reading 13 years. We all remember P. R. Division No. 10 Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers. What happened? Gold mine stock was placed on the market. It glittered, we bought and we paid. Old P. ds R. Division No. 10 Order of Rail- road Telegraphers is working for your in- terest again today. What it has done is history and well known. It is here to stay, as the past is still fresh in our minds. There is still some stock on the market, and so I say again, agents, beware ! “Sphinx,” Cert. 1178. Morris d- Essex Division — Bro. Chas. Judd, formerly second East Secaucus Tower, has bid in Roseville Ave- nue, near his home. Bro. John J. Haley, relief agent, and your correspondent, visited the Madison Square Garden Hoi'se Show. Bro. George Eustice, first Boonton “BO" Tower, will please keep us posted when the firemen are to hold their annual oyster sup- per, then all the faithful will be prepared to make a grand rush to be on hand when the bugle blows. Santa Claus seemed to treat us all pretty well this year. Digitized by C-oogle

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90 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Teddy Cobb, third “UN” Lincoln Park Tower, recently won in a prize waltz. He Is “some dancer.’' Bro. William Sloan, second “KN,” owns the two carrier pigeons that won the first prize, competing against a big field from all over the United States. Bro. Gordon, general agent Secaucus, N. J., is all smiles on account of receiving his back time recently. Bro. George Lundstead of Lynd hurst Ticket, N. J., recently enjoyed a ride in Bro. Bolton’s Super Six. We have only a few nons on this divi- sion and we propose publishing their names in the journal shortly. Now is the time to line them up before “ misfortune ** worse than publicity overtakes them. S. F. M., Cert. 2 55. Delaware & Hudson Ry., Dlv. 12. Champ Division — Bro. F. H. Dague, first Port Kent, relieved Sister Manell recently ; Bro. J. J. Kanaly, South Junction, during Thanksgiving, by Telegrapher Ross ; Bro. G. F. Lanigan, sec- ond Lake Placid, by Doty a few' days, and E. J. Dague, who relieved Agent Carter, West Chazy, several days, also relieved Bro. M. J. Owens, third Rouses Point ; Bro. Dressen, agent Chezy, relieved a few days by C. Clark; Bro. Pecotte, second “CD,” by Bro. Hickey ; Bro. Bonner, third Mont Calm Landing, several nights by Aubin, and Agent O’Rourke, Valcour, a few' days by Bro. H. H. Bow’erg. Bro. Ostrander displaced Bro. Hayes, agent Bloomingdale, w’ho displaced Agent O’Rourke at Valcour. “KX,” Cert. fOID. Atlantic Coast Line R. R., Div. 15. Columbia District — The year 1919 closed with the greatest record of any since we have been organ- ized. It now' becomes the duty of each mem- ber to do his or her part in retaining that record, for there is the greatest organized body against organized labor today that has ever existed, The recent meeting at Wash- ington of labor, capital and the public indi cated that the latter was thoroughly organ ized and proposed to fight labor to a finish. The oganization has been the “real plan of salvation” for many during the past two years and a strong organization is the only protection we have. Wrork for it and keep it intact at all times. Mr. Wanamaker’s statement in the paper* recently in reference to government control looks as if he is after something bigger than the presidency of the Cotton Growers’ As- sociation, and if this is his line of dope he is not the man for the support of organized labor. Government operation has not been given a fair show. I have closed all 1919 files, but any time you are in town and wish to see what was done and how your case w?as handled they are open for your inspection. The general committee is drawing up con- tracts with Supplement 21 incorporated on all small unorganized roads and terminals. Bro. Williams was in Augusta several days working with the C. & W. C., and then went South. Bro. Bolick, Charleston District, went to Tampa to negotiate with some small Florida lines, and BrO. Wheeler is doing the same thing in other parts of the country. We hope to soon have every line, regardless of how small it is, thoroughly organized with a signed contract. I have worked harder this year than ever before for our district in particular and the system at large, and with the aid of our enthusiastic members we can soon get In the three or four non members left. If you will assist me during the year 1920 please drop me a note to that effect so I can call upon you wdien necessary. C. Bolick, L. C. Columbia District Notes — Bro. Mclnnis Lamar is off sick and Bro. Ham is doing the work alone, no extra men available. Bro. Kolb, agent Pinw'ood, has taken sec- ond, and Bro. Davis, first there, has gone into business for himself. Bro. Davis, Robbins, relieved by Bro. Mc- Lean from second on account of sickness. New members : Bro. Smith, extra Lum- ber Bridge, and Bro. Dukes, agent Eutaw- ville. Bro. Newman, Simms, relieved for Christ- mas holidays by Extra Ivey, Columbia. The nons on the district are about the same as listed in December Telegrapher, with the addition of M. L. Smith, Barnwell, regular. On extra list in December it should have read “J. A.” instead of "E. J.” McNab. “Z.” Cert. 201. Michigan Central R. R., Div. 16. Northern Division — Glad to see Bro. Herb Flodel back from the Navy. He bid in second Cheboygan. Bro. M. C. Salter, now with the General Motors Co. at Flint, visited in Saginaw and Milw’aukee recently. Bro. Bullock relieved at Oakley two weeks by J. C. Yahr, former agent at Grayling, now’ relieving Bro. Allen at Lansing. Bro. Higgins, first Lansing, sick, relieved by Bro. McCalpin, who also relieved Bro. Smith, agent Leslie, a few days. Bro. Flynn, second West Branch, away on business. Bro. G. A. Van Dusen and wife are back from an enjoyable trip to California. Digitized by C-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 91 Bro. S. C. Flood, In Detroit on committee work, relieved by Bro. Mac Laing and he third Salzburg by Sister Hass. We should have our increased rates on first half of December payrolls if the com- mittee gets them checked up in time. It trill then take up the rules for the new schedule. We should have the back pay from October 1, 1918, within the next month or six weeks. The exclusive agents and other six-day men will not get much out of this increase under Interpretation No. 8 to Sup- plement No. 13, but those working Sundays will fare pretty good. Bros. C. A. LaRocque of Sterling and Jack Miller, second Waters, were recent Bay City visitors. Bro. G. H. Wagner, first Gaylor, died in Detroit Dec. 11th. He never fully recovered from an attack of the “flu" a year ago and had only worked about two weeks since Sept. 1st. Division 16 loses a staunch member in the death of Bro. Wagner. He leaves a wife and two small children, also a brother and sister in Detroit. They have the sympathy of the Division. Cert. 63. Midfile Division — L Bro. Healy is relieving Relief Agent Web- ster and Bro. Shane at Centreville. Bro. Pendleton is very sick. Bro. Wagner, Homer, sick ; Bros. Trattles and Messick doubling owing to shortage of men; Bro. Moulton is on Colon second, clos- ing third there; same reason. Bro. Allen, “SF”' Jackson, sick several nights, relieved by Bro. Scherer; Dispatcher Case, also sick, relieved by Dispatcher Sayles, relieved by Extra Dispatcher McEldowney ; Dispatcher Van Wagner relieved Night Chief Gardner on account of sickness. Bro. Glass, Cassopolis, sick, Bros. C. L. Bennett and Sloan doubling. Dispatcher Wholihan, on account of the death of his sister, relieved by Dispatcher Keefe, now on third Air Line, relieved by Dispatcher Carter on second relief job. Eater Dispatcher Keefe relieved by Bro. Shea, relieved at Van Horn by Bro. C. W. Brown, who later relieved Bro. Jacobs at Concord, relieved by Miss Adkins. Bro. Seigfried has returned to N. Y. C. Junction after a trip through the Eastern *nd Wes ten states. Bro. Nowlin, Concord, is back from his bunting trip, bringing a big buck. Bro. Hafer to “SF” Jackson, relieved at Haires by Carlisle. Bro. C. M. Brown, called to Detroit by General Chairman Smith, relieved at Haires by Bro. Hickey. Bro. Miller. Haires, while attending the big doings at Grand Rapids, relieved by Bro. Seigfried from N. Y: C. Junction. Bro. Boylan, Concord, relieved by Bro. Healy on a trip West. Bro. Middleton, Tekonsha, is being relieved by Relief Agent Webster. The new terminal and yard at Niles is now' in operation creating several new posi- tions. Business is rushing, Bros. Peters and Fire- stone busy throwing switches at East End and Bro. Planck at A. L. Junction days. J. E. Hafer, Cert. 1330. Bay City Division — On November 21st Harry Plumley, third Metamora, died at Herman Keifer Hospital. Detroit, of blood poisoning His death was a shock to his many friends. He left his wife and three children in dire need. All -were asked to give. Four hundred and fifty dollars has been collected from operators, trainmen and other friends. Out of this sum $200 was given to Mrs. Plumley after funeral expenses were paid. She extends her thanks to all those w-ho assisted her in her great hour of need. Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Schiller and Mr. and Mrs. R. D. Barr also acknowledge with grate- ful appreciation the kind expression of our sympathy. Also for the wreath of flowers given by the O. R. T. Bro. Rossow, third Utica, who relieved Sister Lewis on first, was relieved by Bro. Fragner. Bro. Miller, Millington, relieving the dis- patchers in Detroit, relieved by Bro. Bishop. Bro. Mike Stiles, night chief, sick with pneumonia, relieved by Bro. Hanlon. Cert. 1166. Pennsylvania R. R., Div. 17. Members W. J. & 8. and Camden Terminal Divisions — I want to thank the sisters and brothers for their hearty co-operation and assistance given me during the past year. Your ac- tivity has resulted in a very large increase in membership and in cutting the delinquent list to a minimum, so that our standing now is very satisfactory. Although we have not quite reached the 100 per cent naark, I feel confident that we will soon near that goal, if the prevailing activity continues. I also w’ant to extend my hearty thanks to the returned soldiers, who w’ere very prompt in securing cards when they re- ported for duty, a worthy example for the nons who remained safely at home during the world war and still claim they are not able financially to contribute a few dollars a year for their own protection. I regret that our regular meetings had to he abandoned owing to the poor attendance. Meetings are of vital importance to us in promoting our organization, wrhich cannot be accomplished by simply paying dues. Pre- Digitized by Google

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92 Tmc Railroad Telegrapher. Vanins' unsettled conditions and the many important questions coming up continuously make it the duty of every member to attend when meetings are called. The long standing question of recognition will no doubt soon be decided favorably by your ballots, as I feel confident that the em- ployes will cast their fate with the O. R. T. Keep organized, as it is our only sure way to success. Every member should talk to the nons with and near him until they sign up, and also keep after everyone who is a little slow in paying dues and see if we cannot have them all paid up by the last of January, as the delinquent list is a poor weapon in our hands. I wish you all a prosperous and happy New Tear. H. H. Leacock, L. C., Woodstock, N. J. West Jersey dr Seashore Division Notes — Our membership has been materially in- creased daring the past year. The few who may not yet have paid up for last term should remit at once, also sign the M. B. D. slip and become reinstated. Supplement 13 takes care of agents as well as operators and all were given the op- portunity to vote os to which organization should hepresent them before the company, and they should join the organization that has fought their battles for 25 years and is still doing so. Brothers, get in the nons and make this division 100 per cent. The Camden Termi- nal men will no doubt join now, as well as all the rest who have held out waiting the result of the election. Wishing every one a happy and prosper- ous New Year. Cert. 74. Sunbury Division — No notes last month on account of late arrival at St. Louis. Turn your notes over to the local chairman not later than the 16th of each month so they can be handed to the Division correspondent for publication. Local Chairman Nucklas, in Philadelphia counting the votes, reported a landslide. Boys, help, our local chairman by landing that non next to you. Don’t give him any rest until he comes in and helps to pay for the good things we are sure to get. We know where we stand and who we want to represent us in Philadelphia. Now show the nons where they belong. Bro. A. Boyd spent two weeks in the woods looking for big game. The party got two nice deer, but when a nice big buck stopped in front of him to look him over his gun refused to go off. Suggest Bro. Boyer take a little salt along next year. Bro. PI. L. Dewitt, who never misses a sea- son’s hunt for big game, also was off about two weeks. Bro. Pat Doyle is getting some of the ex- periences of a married man. The first cold snap of the season he had to report oft on account of water pipes bursting and unable to get a plumber. With Wetzel an<3 J. E. Kinney running trains, “SB” is close to 100 per cent Cert. 1566. Schuylkill Division — Business is good but the officials refuse to reopen the offices they closed some time ago. Let us work together and practice more brotherly love even to those who do not see as we do. We were all — I believe — some time near as bad — perhaps worse. The O. R. T. won out by a large majority In the recent election, as to who shall rep- resent us. Now let’s try and make this division solid O. R. T. Also make It solid for the Plumb Plan League. We have the material and must do It. Our superinten- dent has acted somewhat haughty in times past, but we hope he will now recognize our worthy chairman, Bro. Snyder, when he calls. Brothers, keep on the job and give the company the best that is in you. Keep off the phones. , Recently Bros. Sheeder and Weaver passed away and are certainly very much missed. The good go and the bad remain. Had several meetings lately and all have been very well attended. Would appreciate notes from the extreme East End of the division for I cannot get around. Let’s all pay our dues promptly for 1920. Wherever it is practicable, please pay for the whole year, thereby saving a lot of clerical w'ork. Edwin S. Dundore, Ceil. 676, R. D. No. 2, Box 182, Reading, Pa. N. Y. P. dr N. Division — I have noticed the vast difference since being a member of the O. R. T. ; how the operators co-operate in both business and friendship, always ready to give you a help- ing hand in anything, and that is worth being a member alone, besides the rights and benefits you get out of it. • I understand the Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers won out in an overwhelming ma- jority in the vote to decide which organ- ization should represent us in the future. Everybody is getting wise, even the “nons/* Now we want to get busy, talk to those wno are still in the dark and “put them wise/’ They all mean right, but haven’t been able to understand the good of it yet. Every member select a “non” and show him where he is wrong and we will see a record estab- lished on the N. Y. P. & N. that will read 100 per cent In capital letters. The grip will be so strong that we will be unable to find Digitized by Goog ;

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The Railroad Telegraviier. 93 the word “fear” In our vocabulary , but all will be pure, red blooded American O. R. T. members. Let our motto be more members in the 0. R. T. and more O. R. T. in us. I extend my heartiest greetings to all for excellent success in the future and a happy New Year. A. W. Boyce, Cert 7471. -V. Y. P. AT. Notes — Let’s put some "pep" on the Nip. Go after that non we are working with and en- force our trade mark, “No card, no favors ” Bro. Mears has opened a 3ewelry store at Parksley, Va. We wish him much success. Bro. Colebum is off sick with rheumatism. Dispatchers are now enjoying one day a week off with pay, while we enjoy ourselves every day. Bro. Buchanan was relieved by Extra Baker while attending his father-in-law’s funeral at Belle Haven, Va. The family has our heartfelt sympathy in their bereave- ment We are glad to see Bro. Davis back and hope he has entirely recovered from his ac- cident Bro. Davis, Exfore, Is busy working on his new home at Willis Wharf, Va. Bro. Haley, relieved by Bro. Brumbley, on an extended rabbit and quail hunt Bro. Clayton, relief schedule No. 1, re- lieved by Extra Vincent while marketing his spud crop and painting his home. Bro. Churn ("VC"), was a recent Balti- more and Salisbury visitor. New message office "N" Norfolk opened Dec. 1st with Bro. Mason on first ; R. l. Kin?, second, and W. A. Millagan, third. Keep after those two none. Boys, keep on your jobs. Be prompt in Siving any information that will assist In moving traffic, and let the company see that It pays to have union labor. Don't forget to ask your "buddy" on the wire if he has a card. If not, why? Cert. 6275. Uonongahela Division — Nov. 25th a bulletin was issued by the P* R. R. that the "Schedule” now in effect would be annulled at the expiration of 30 days, and a ballot taken of the employes coming under the scope of Supplement 13 to General Order 27 to decide which or- sanization the employes wanted to repre- sent them In future negotiations with the P . R. R. After many months of hard work and con- flicting statements on the part of both par- ties the Railroad Administration decided that this would be the fairest course to take and instructed Federal Manager Lee ac- cordingly. Our membership among employes coming under Supplement 13 is two-thirds in ma- jority and the way to keep it such is to keep up our enthusiasm and get all the new mem- bers we can. In that7 way we can always have the lead on the opposition. Our officers from the local chairman up are all conscientious, upright men in every sense of the w'ord, fully capable and ex- perienced to handle our affairs. I am sure we will be successful, shortly be enjoying a schedule and feel the same security as our brothers on Lines West. We hear of strikes every day, condemned in the newspapers that call the labor lead- ers "Radicals" and "Bolsheviks," but I am sure if the labor and capitalist leaders were put against one another, labor would come out second best, as far as honesty of pur- pose is concerned. The newspaper propaganda of the present day is one of the lowest forms of taking advantage of the public ever used, as they are the quickest means of keeping the pub- lic acquainted with current events. Read your labor journal, as it has the truth In it and nothing radical, for if it did it would soon be suppressed as a sedi- tious and traitorous sheet, detrimental to the best interests of our country. Ex-Traffic Director Kaven has requested and assumed his former position as train director. Meeting held at home of Bro. Roberts, Dec. 2nd, was well attended. I am still asking for notes from the South End, largely a habit now. Pay your dues and M. B. D. assessments promptly and maintain a solid front against our aggressors. Camp on the trail of the nons until you get them, and remember, “No card, no favor 8.” The O. R. T. received a hearing before the Board of Wages 4and Working Condi- tions on Dec. 4th last. We should hear from this soon. You members, brothers and sisters alike can secure an emblem at a nominal cost by looking in the advertising section of your journal. What has become of the Flower Fund mentioned last month? It is a good tiling. Somebody start the ball rolling. Phenecie w?as doing "The Act" at Donora before the steel strike w*as called off. We can shake hands wdth ourselves that he did not take out a card and disgrace the mem- bership. Bro. H. E. Flegal has returned to Home- stead from France. He sends his best wish- es to the boys he knew when he worked on the "pike." He still carries a brand new up-to-date and wanted to know how many others had one. Bros. Sullivan and Weisman were off re- cently attending court. Digitized by Google

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'94 The Kailroad Telegrapher. There have been a niimber of changes on . the road but I cannot keep track of them. More reasons why I should get notes. Cert. 881. “GO” Relay , Pittsburgh, Pa. — A conference was held between our com- mittee and Superintendent of Telegraph Cel- lar, in his office recently, and a number of cases adjusted. This is the first conference ever arranged to discuss local matters and was brought about by the untiring efforts of Local Chairman Clifton, who with Sister Edwards (alternate for Bro. Chas. Cone) and Bro. Stettler composed the committee. Chairman Clifton handled his work in a straightforward, businesslike manner which would do credit to an old-timer, and we are proud of his efforts to bring about harmony and order. Sister Williams was granted back pay at time and one-half for all Sunday work and all the other girls in the printer room, in- cluding apprentice operators and checkers, were granted back pay for 15 minutes a day, retroactive to Oct. 1st, 1918. Chairman Clif- ton was granted six days' pay for time he was held out of service after returning from the army. The committee was cordially received by Superintendent Cellar and all are well pleased with the reception accorded them. We all enjoyed a harty laugh over a lit- tle “joke” a certain person tried to spring on Bro. Clifton recently. He had evidently been too active for the comfort of some who find it irksome to work through a local chair- man. Wishing, no doubt, to play the part of the good Samaritan, this party approached him with an alluring offer to accept a posi- tion with the Associated Press. No X-ray outfit was needed to see through this piece of strategy. # The company sent for a “doctor” recently to care for the ills of the typewriters placed in this office a short time ago. They will be given careful treatment, unless it is decided that they have a fatal case of "Junkltis.” Friends of Bro. Chas. J. Cone were pained to learn of the terrible accident which be- fell his little four-year-old girl, Elizabeth, a short time ago. Her clothes were ignited from a gas stove and had it not been for the quick action of her mother, wfho smoth- ered out the flames with her skirt, she un- doubtedly would have been fatally burned. We are glad to learn that she is doing nicely, although terribly burned about the hands and body, and all hope for her speedy re- covery. Bro. Cone wishes to sound a warning against open grates and gas stoves. Pro- tect the little folks by using nursery guards, even though they are not a handsome fix- ture. Regulate the check valve on the stove so that the flow of gas cannot extend beyond the front of the stove, especially where there is a strong pressure. Do not pass this by lightly, as it may be the means of saving some loved one from being burned as was Bro. Cone’s little girl. Bro. Samuel Maywood is enjoying a few weeks’ recreation in Los Angeles, Cal. Why can’t we all own a movie show? Bro. Sprague expects to leave for Cali- fornia shortly to visit his grandson, Harold. Our allegiance to the Order is now going to be put to a test. Dues for the ensuing six months are#now payable, and when we consider all that the Order has done for the operators and printers in “GO,” one would indeed be very ungrateful to become delin- quent. An attempt was recently made to split our ranks in this office, and some of our members unconsciously became innocent par- ties to this scheme to disrupt our organiza- tion, but when it was learned that this smooth piece of work was being inaugurated by a couple of persons quite intimately as- sociated with those antagonistic to our prin- ciples, it was readily seen through, and the coup failed. When a certain individual came among us to work, it soon developed that his game was to enhance his own selfish interests at the expense of those whom he sought to in- fluence. He was fairly successful for a time and sowed the seeds of dissension quite cleverly ; but, fortunately, they fell upon barren ground. His sole object was to se- cure for a local chairman, one whose posi- tion in life is such that he would, of ne- cessity, be less aggressive than the present incumbent. “A word to the wise is suffi- cient” Maintain your standing in the Order. Don’t be influenced by the agents of those whose only interest in the Order and all it has done for us, is to create dissatisfaction and chaos. Renew your cards and show them that we cannot be taken over by any such pussyfooting tactics. Sister Sarah Brown evidently thinks more of an up-to-date card than Christmas candy. Several days before Christmas someone asked her if she wanted to buy some choco- lates. She said : “Chocolates ! Well, I’d say not ; I need my money for an O. R. T. card, which will do me more good than all the chocolates.” Some of us would like to know where Bro. "Dibby” Dillon got that buzzard he paid 59 cents a pound for. Cert. <611. Marietta Division — The brothers along the line were solicited for a fewr items, but very few responded. Practically all the mines in this district are again in full operation and business will soon get back to normal. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 95 Brothers, keep after the non who bumpc I Bro. Lawrence, third Cambridge Scales, ani se* if we cannot get him in. Give him no rest until he thinks he has no more chance on this division than a celluloid cat chasing an asbestos rat through his satanic majes- ty’s summer palace, unless he gets lined up with the rest of the boys. Also get after Agents B. R. Davis, Warner ; J. S. Jones, Caldwell ; M. L. Hauger, Mohawk, and a few others who have not gleamed the light yd but are all ready and perfectly willing and eager to snap off the increases that we 0. R. T. men pay our good, hard-earned dol- lars to get. That seems alrpost as bad as goinsr out after dark to visit somebody’s chicken roost, getting something for nothing, jufct the same as these nons. The way of the transgressor is hard. Lo, we hear a voice saying: SYo card, no favors ” Bro. R. L. Barthalow bumped Bro. Mc- Fadden, second at Belle Valley, who fur- loughed temporarily. Bro. Sherby, Pleasant City, was relieved several days by Bro. MeCleary. Bro. Allison, agent Belle Valley, has em- barked on the sea of oildom. He reports a good production in his second well, and the third well started. We all wish him success. Bro. M. R. Piekenpaugh is now on the B. k 0..fat Hundred, W. Va, Bro. Bosold, Caldwell, on an extensive rabbit hunt lately, got the limit. Coffey has resigned and first Marietta is op for bids. Bro. F. S. Lawrence, bumped off third at Scales during the coal strike, bid in second •V. Cabin. A*k Bro. Robinson, who lives at Caldwell and works first Belle Valley, how the Speeder “steams" these cold mornings. Ut‘8 pay up our dues promptly and have no delinquents. Bro. Mathews came to Caldwell recently and drove back in his car to Derwent. It wa* ,aid tip about a month, due to bad roads. Bro. R. Warren is at Smith field, W. Va., helping the B. & O. run coal trains over the Wheeling Division: Boys, send your items to Bro. Bosold, at Caldwell, or Bro. Robinson, at Belle Val- Cert. 3527. Toledo Division — A meeting was held the night of December 15th in Toh do, but owing to the train service Ikre, some of the boys could not attend. Bro. Snyder from Legonier reports a good time. The coal strike made business good, our Vain sheets showing from 7t) to 75 trains In 24 hours. Bro. Bevur, Waterloo, is on a trip West wkh his family. Bro. H. C. Dill, Trenton, off sick, relieved by a new man. See that he has an up-to- date card. If not, line him up. Signal Station "D," Wauseon, has had a coat of fresh paint. Bro. Smith, on third, was mixed up in it. Sister Agnes Arney, Brimfield, made a trip to her old home at Edgerton recently. The committee is back from NeW York and Washington, D. C., and report good success. Let us all pay our dues promptly and keep the division strong, then when your local chairman calls, you can show him an up- to-date card. Send in your notes and help me to have a good write-up. Cert. 1773. Louisville Division — I "wish to congratulate Bro. U. G. Sweet, our former correspondent, and his two as- sistants, Bro. W. E. Davis and Bro. J. A. Whalen, on the commendable manner In which they have handled the news of this division for the past two years. Having been appointed to succeed Bro. Sweet, I desire the co-operation of all the brothers on this division, and will appreciate any items received, which should reach me not later than the 18th. I have appointed Bro. W. E. Davis of Ohio Falls as my assistant to cover the blocks including North Tower, New Albany Branch, Louisville Bridge and Ter- minal. Please send him any news of inter- est regarding this territory. Bro. Hemphill, Edinburg, who recently took the Scottish Rite and Shrine at In- diana pol is, intends going to Portland, Ore., next summer for the Shriners* annual meet. Bro. "Dutch" Hultsch, Shelbyville, was also off a week recently, taking the Scottish Rite at Indianapolis. Bro. I. B. Davis, agent Flat Rock, spent a most enjoyable and merry Christmas with Bro. J. W. Davis, Greenwood, and many of the brothers spent the holiday season hunt- ing, extra mt*n relieving. Notice an item under the “Personal Men- tion" from this division. Recently we received our first bulletin of jobs. Boys, let’s pay our dues for the first half, 1 D 2 0 , promptly and we will continue receiving these bulletins. If we fail to keep in good standing, soon we will be “down and out," with no bulletins being sent us and no recognition whatever. “United we stand; divided we fall ” On account of receiving my appointment as correspondent very late in December, I was unable to secure many items for this number. Please address all communications relating to the correspondents of this divi- sion to H. M. Davis, Cert. 2797, 1022 Ninth St., Columbus, Ind. Digitized by Google

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96 The Railroad Telegrapher. Louisville Terminal — Bro. G. E. Vest, second North Tower, re- lieved Miss Underwood, clerk in Mij. Lam- man's office, a few days on account of ill- ness. Bro. Whitehouse to second tableman and Bro. Peeler, second leverman. Later Bro. Whitehouse was off several days, owing to the illness of his mother at Junction City, Ky. Bro. McCurdy worked five nights at Speeds third, relieved by Bro. Peeler. Bro. C. E. Hudson to second and Bro. M. L. Smith to third copier, while Dispatcher Davis was off, Bro. Wiseman relieving Bro. Smith, first leverman South Tower. Bro. Chas. Williams and Bro. McCurdy, while on a successful Thanksgiving hunting in the Jungles near Scottsburg, moved a stove for a lady at a farm house and were treated to some fine blackberry wine. Bro. Will Davis was off while "K” Towner was closed on account of shortage of fuel and discontinuance of dinkey trafns for five days. Bro. Iieyn, second, to "AD” Tower. Brothers, we must see that all the nons and brothers take out cards promptly this term and make it solid. We will need it should the road go back to private owner- ship. ’ W. E. Davis, Cert. 3623. Western Division — At the last meeting of the Local Board I was agreeably surprised and not a little pleased, when Bro. Pease presented me with a handsome leather brief case and told me that it was a gift from the boys on the Western Division. It is something I have been badly in need of for some time. I wish to thank each and every one of you, and I assure you that I will do everything in mv power to prove myself worthy of such a splendid token of appreciation. C. A. Jana, Local Chairman. The Order is established on the Penn&y, not for a few months or a year, but for good. We must hold those things we have managed to get thus far, and keep up our fight for other things still our due. You are going to stay in the Order, so why not do it up right? Help out our G. S. & T. to make this the banner division and yourself solid for a whole year by taking out an annual card. Now all together — “An Annual Card ” We will have several temporary vacancies on this division in the near future. Be care- ful in bidding and not get caught up on the six-month provision in our agreement, which says that if you get bumped and wish to bump someone else, you will have to assert your seniority in writing within ten days. Study the agreement and familiarize your- self with Its contents, so we don’t get caught napping. Bros. Wistner and Wolfe, “MD,” worked 12 hours Thanksgiving Day, account injury to second trick man. No available man io relieve. Brothers, let everyone of us see that the men we relieve, or are relieved by, pay up their dues for the coming term, so we will have no delinquents. We still have a few on the division who do not seem to appreci- ate what the Order has done for them, but do not object to taking the money. Keep af- ter them and, remember, “No card, no favors” Show them whero they stand and where you stand. ' Bro. Jana held several meetings recently, but the boys don’t turn out very well. Anv one got any items for us? B. J. F., Cert 2456. Indianapolis Division — Those who have not yet received a copy of the schedule, advise me and I will have you supplied. You should also have the division seniority list shortly. We now have the conditions long dreamed of and wished for, and know that justice awaits us if we seek it in a fair, just and determined manner. But, after all, brothers, the strength of this unionism, the only means of redress yet evolved by those who toll. Is measured by you and I collectively. It is now and always will be nothing more nor less than what we make it. Forget petty objections, imaginary wrongs, and get right behind the O. R. T. movement. There are still a few who have not yet paid their dues for the period ending Dec. 31st. Bfeing delinquent in either department makes one delinquent in both, and this is unfair to your loved ones who hold your in- terest in the insurance department; further, you must be in good standing in order to be heard should you have a complaint or grievance. Remember that a non and a de- linquent stand alone. I wish to impress upon everyone that the most important and perhaps the most critical time of our career may be nearing, and I trust you will all keep your dues paid up to date, and keep ever- lastingly after the non next #to you, as you all will be depended upon should an emer- gency arise. Director General Hines declared that union labor makes far more efficient workmanship. Let’s prove this fact to the entire world. Show a little more personal interest in your own welfare and the grand old Order will make our wants heard in a more general way, showing progress each day. Give the company the very best you have; your good service enables It to give the public better service, then see that you receive all that’s coming to you. Show' the company that it* best interest lies In our being organized and having a contract Take up your grievances in writing, keep- ing a copy. Failing to get satisfaction from Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 97 your division operator, turn the matter over to your local chairman with copies of all correspondence and any other information possible. In a majority of cases you may be able to get satisfaction from your division operator. Don’t tell your troubles to me on the wire or phone. It’s all right to ask me questions thus publicly and I am always ready to answer when not actually busy with my office duties, but when you think you have been mistreated or hear of some- thing going on not according with the sched- ule write me and I will reply as promptly as possible. Mr. Krafft has assured me that it is his desire to meet us half way In operating the schedule on this division, and is willing to correct anything wrong. Make it one of your New Year’s resolu- tions to take a renewed interest in the work of the Order. Let’s make our slogan for 1920 a “100% membership." Get in the nons working at your office or in the next one near you. Give them no rest until they Join. Show the other mem- bers your up-to-date card and ask to see theirs. In this way you will help to keep down the list of delinquents. Get an annual card for 1920 if you possibly can, but if you can t pay for a full year, get your up-to-date card to June 30, 1920, and pay your insur- ance assessments at once. Remember, If you are not paid up before Feb. 29, you become delinquent. If necessary I will come after them, give you a receipt and forward them to the proper destination promptly. I thank you all for your assistance and co-operation in the year Just passed, and request the same for 1920. I hope you all had a: “Merry Xmas’’ and wish you a “Happy New Year." Wm. Bump, L. C., Cert. 53. Chicago Terminal Division (Ft. Wayne Side)— Our monthly meeting Dec. 15th was a lively one and those failing to attend have much to regret. These meetings are impor- tant and all of us who possibly can should attend. There are many things to be dis- cussed at these local meetings interesting 10 all of us. Vice-president Bro. Brown gave us a bright, instructive talk which was very much appreciated. Bro. H. H. Timm bid in third ”CJ,’’ the fast lever job to be bulletined under our new schedule. It must be a source of pleas - Qre to these levermen as well as in the tele- graph department to be “offered’’ a chance at a Job we are entitled to. Bro. Timm re- ^ntly lost his two-year-old daughter. We expressed our sympathy in a beautiful floral offering. Bro. Gay is now on third “1H” Tower, Bro. Long on second “FO” and Bro. Thorne on extra board. Bro. Tricky, “YM,” Colehour yard days, stuck to his post In spite of a severe cold and an attack of the rheumatism. • Bro. Edward Carrol and Bro. Mann, just back from the service, are on first and third “FD.” Bro. Fisher, third “HU,” is being relieved 30 days by Bro. Harden. Bro. H. H. Miller, first "GH," has re- turned from a month’s visit in Southern California. Bro. Wooters, who relieved him. Is now relieving Dixon, first “OU,” 90 days. Bro. A. Carr, second “OD,” working the “XN” holidays vacations, relieved by Bro. O'Malley, “OD,” and he by Bro. Harris on third “GH.” Officers for the ensuing year of the Key- stone O. R. T. Club were elected last meet- ing night. The members of the club are de- lighted with the progress made qt the last meeting. Brothers, come out and join. Regular meeting nights, first Monday in each month at Seventy-first street and Cot- tage Grove avenue. Bro. Manders from “XN” Is the new president. Cert. 2522. O. R. Jc I. Northern Division — Bro. Northway, Missaukee Junction, was relieved a few days by Sister Hedburg, and Bro. Hoffman by Newcomer. Bro. Clare Edwards, Kalkaska, spent the holidays in southern Indiana, and Bro. Gruntz and family at Milwaukee with the old folks. Bro. Biggane, our lineman, has paid up his dyes for five years and expects to have an up-to-date when he gets above so he will not have to stand outside. Let’s all get our new cards now and keep after the few nons until they are all lined up. Thanks to the brothers who sent me the items. Some of you others send be some. I wish you all a happy new year. F. A. G., Cert. 1855. “Nickel Plate” R. R.f Div. 18. Cleveland Division — The Adjustment Board has handed down a decision on vacations due us for 1918 in our favor. All who worked had one during that time due them when Supplement No. 13 took effect abolishing vacations with pay, and will be paid for the 12 days or allowed 12 days with pay. Our schedule is now in the printer’s hands and we should soon receive them. We have added several positions, also many new rules, making it a fine one. Business is picking up and an office has been opened up at Mentor. Sister McShay and Miss Lawrie on second and third there. Digitized by Google

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98 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Goldy, second Ashtabula Siding, re- lieved a few days by Bro. Barry, and Bro. Helmbreck, third East Lorain, by a man from the B. & L. E. Railroad. Bro. Donohue from the B. & L. E. Is on third Euclid anil Bro. Mollenkop is on sec- ond Copier in Cleveland. Brothers, see that I get a copy of your bids to enable me to see that assignments are made properly. Cert. 211. Chicago Division — Bro. Charles E. Mergenthaler, agent Dun- fee, is back at work again after having suc- cessfully passed through the fifth operation and is slowly recovering his health. He de- sires through the columns of TRb Telegra- pher to express his sincere thanks to all those who so kindly remembered him dur- ing his time of trouble. Cert. 37. N. Y., Ont & W. R. R.f Div. 20. Scranton Division — Bro. O’ Boyle, after several months* serious illness, is now on Poyntelle, second, vice Bro. Russell Williams, to Preston Park agency, vice Bro. Spratt, to third Poyntelle. Bro. Gaffney, operator and clerk, Jermyn Transfer, is now in Mayfield coal shipping yard, and Mr. Benedict on third Forest City, again opened temporarily. Brothers, keep after the few delinquents and that one non and make our division 100 per cent strong. We have all benefited much through organization ; since the time when we worked twelve hours a day or until we were relieved, sometimes twenty-four or thirty-six hours with no overtime at $35 per. As we all share in the better condi- tions, all should help to pay the expenses Incurred to secure them. So pay in your dues promptly and we can then expect bet- ter results still. Cert. 301. Southern Division— The petitions in reference to Rule 3 sent out some time ago, have been signed and re- turned from the P. J. M. & K. Branch and from Fish, Eddy to Summitville, but the ones from Cadosia North and from Mama- kating to Firth Cliff on the South End had been returned up to December 20th. Who- ever has these copies will please hurry them along, so that Bro. Conner may have them to use. Bro. Reistetter is now at Mansfield, Texas, and Bro. C. J. Clifford at Ennis, Texas, on the Houston and Texas Central. They write that they like the country and enjoy the “Prairie Chickens.” Bro. G. T. Onyan, writes that he is taking a business course in the Zanerian College at Columbus, Ohio. May they “live long and prosper,” is the wish of the brothers on the N. Y. O. & W. Bro. Fish, first Wheeler Tower, off sick several days in December, and second and third trick men doubled two days until relief operator Bro. Capach arrived. Bro. J. E. Cassidy, East Branch, is off looking after some private business, and Bro. J. J. Mahoney of Fallsburgh is spending the w-inter in the South. Thanks to Bro. Mataoonis for the news items. Time for the payment of dues and it is vitally important for every man to remit promptly. “ Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. ” Keep in line. Cert. 7. C. I. & W. R. R.t Div. 21. Indianapolis Division — Bro. Brougher, bumped off second "CG” Tower by Paul Stephenson, helped out at Oxford during the rush occasioned by stu- dents leaving for Christmas vacation, later - relieving Bro. Trent, second Connersville. Bro. Lipps is on third Moorefleld and L. D. Hussey, third State Street, both new jobs put on during the coal rush. Cert. 37. Mo.f Kan. & Tex. Ry., Div. 22. Smithville District — Bro. E. B. Moore, agent New Ulm, who made several trips to New Braunfels Sani- tarium recently to see his wife, who had to undergo an operation there, we are glad to learn has now been able to bring her home and she is doing fine. Bro. Shultz has returned from a three months’ visit in Colorado, relieved by Bro. Langowski, who bumped Bro. Lovell from third Granger to Sealy second. Bro. Pendarvis has also returned from a visit to relatives in Illinois. D. A. Tunstall bid in Eddy nights. Bro. R. Brau is on third Holland. He used to sling baggage and hot air at San Marcos before entering the United States Army, 90th Division, and going to France. Thanks to Bro. Langowski, Granger, for his help. I would appreciate it very much if you boys up around Hewitt, Eddy, Tem- ple and over on the West Side would send me something for next month. We never hear from New Braunfels, San Antonio or any of the boys over that way. Frank Haggard, Cert. 429, Smithville, Texas. C. M. & St. P. Ry., Div. 23. Ioica and Dakota Division — Local Chairman Krum has been relieved at Fort Atkinson and is looking up a place to live before taking up his new position as ticket agent at Sheldon. Bro. A. C. Longley is relieving R. J. Tay- lor. agent Charles City, called to Boston, Mass., by the death of a relative. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 99 Bro. E. W. Chase, agent Everly, has gone to a warmer climate for the winter, relieved four months by Bro. J. E. Johnson of Charles City. Two dispatchers and a train master have been added to the West Division forces. Division is split at Chambej-lain from 6 a. tn. to 10 a. m., F. M. Higgins and A. F. Mikesh working West and H. G. Kearney and L. J. Disburg, East End, while Bro. W. C. Beach has the whole works from 10 p. m. to 6 a. m., Bro T. S. Tobin doing relief work. Trainmaster Searls also has his terri- tory split at Chamberlain, D. A. Gibson be- ing the new trainmaster, lines west of Chamberlain. Bro. M. J. Bailey has taken first New Hampton, Bro. C. C. Searls, dispatcher’s office. Mason City, taking Algona agency, and Bro. W. L. Whitney, second there. Murdo days and second Kadoka put on temporarily. Bro. G. C. Scobee, Britt, is on the sick list. Many of the agents and day operators are missing out on the 23 messages sent out at 10 a. m. Try and get in on these and save the Mason City boys the work of mail- ing them to you. It is to your interest to get them as early as possible. Sister E. M. Paul has resumed at Elkader after three months* visit West. Bro. M. R. Hilton, Canton, impressed his brother who was visiting him into service as his relief and took a run up to visit home folks. Send in a few news items especially from the West I. & D. Cert. 3784. Wabash Railroad, Div. 26. Sixth District — Bro. L. O. Pinkston, agent Ballou, 111., while attending the I. O. O. F. convention at Springficdd. 111., and riding the third de- gree goat with two thousand other candi- dates, was relieved by Bro. E. L. Million, who also relieved on third Gibson City, later going to Chicago Ridge first. Bro. N. J. Delchi, third Ballou, quarantined about two weeks on account of the family where he was boarding having diphtheria, was re- lieved by Bro. P. Beltram, who later went to Manhattan third. Bud. S. C. Wooley, second Ballou, and family were in Chicago several days re- cently doing some Santa Claus shopping. Bro. F. G. Pinckard, agent Ritchie, III., was in Decatur several days recently adjust- ing his claim against the Wabash for break- ing his leg by throwing a mail pouch from a train at his station on July the 31st, 1919. He lost about four and a half months but was checked in at Ritchie again Dec. 18th, vice Bro. Bain to extra board. It is very gratifying to note that the “Anti- Strike Clause” has been withdrawn from the Cummins railroad bill, but we should endeavor to have both that and the Esch bill defeated entirely and continue our fight for the Plumb Plan League measure. We should also get in line for a general consolidation of our Order and in future act as one combined unit, which will greatly strengthen us in our fight when the roads are returned to private ownership, as some of them that were antagonistic previous to Government control will immediately begin their old tactics to force our wages to a lower standard. We should devote more time to this matter, as it is of extreme impor- tance to each individual member. L. O. Pinkston, Cert. 798. Ninth and Thirteenth DistiHcts, Decatur — Bro. Franklin, first Stonington, relieved a few days by Bro. Bryan, who later went to Worden second. Bro. Bartely, third Allen, was also off a few days recently. Bro. Hyde, first Kanres Yard, is being re- lieved by Bro. Dooley and the brothers in "GM" St. Louis by Bro. Gleason. Bro. Fohrell, third Edwardsville, injured at Edwardsville, Dec. 12th, unloading ex- press from train No; 6, Is getting along nicely. Bro. C. R. Quigley is relieving him. The United States mail at Worden is get- ting so heavy that Bro. Cannon will soon have to buy a truck to handle it. We hope our committee that has been in Washington some time will soon be able to get us relieved of this burden. We understand the commit- tee had a heaving on Dec. 2nd, 3rd and 4th, but the Wage Board has not handed down any decision yet. Bro. Norvell, third Granite City, and wife spent Sunday recently with home folks at Litchfield. “HN,” Cert. 740. Mohcrly Division — Bro. B. H. Cox, Page avenue, has re- sumed work after 90 days’ absence on ac- count of his health. Bro. E. W. Hoffmister, who has been relieving him, is taking a good rest hunting. Bro. Horton, third Luther, is also on a hunt down home in Oklahoma, Bro. L. W. O'Neil relieving. We still have several nons on this division. Some of you brothers try and line them up. C. A. B. Moberly Division Notes — E. P. Marion, "GM” St. Louis, succeeds M. J. Sears at O’ Fallon agency. L. W. Bashaw, agent Benton City, has re- turned from a 30 days’ trip South. Relief Agent Ballard is relieving Wm. Hartzel on account of his wife’s death and the serious illness of his daughter. I. M. Richards, Mexico second, is on the sick list, and Ben J. Ouney, Mexico, is in Wabash Hospital. Digitized by Google

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100 The Railroad Telegrapher. Sister E. R. Stephens, St. Charles, was relieved a few days by Bro. L. T. Williams on account of sickness at home. Relief Agent McMillen is suffering with a severe case of boils. Harry Scott, second Montgomery, was off several days owing to the illness of his wife. Leo W. Kelly is now manager at “GO” Moberly. We are glad to see this question is settled as there had been some misunder- standing about it. Roy Messick, extra dispatcher “GO,” re- turning from a 60 days’ visit with his par- ents on the farm in Southern Missouri, was called to St. Louis recently on company business. Miss May Byrd, the chief dispatcher’s stenographer, spent several days in St. Louis recently Christmas shopping. If each member will send a few items to our local chairman every month we could have a good write-up in the journal every issue. Cert. 942. St. Louis-Southwestern Ry.f Div. 27. Brothers: This is to advise you that the vote taken last month to see if the mem- bers wanted a salaried general chairman and was willing to pay dues of $18.00 per year failed to carry on account of not re- ceiving two-thirds majority. The total vote received by the general secretary was 180, being 113 for increase and 67 against I wish to thank the sisters and brothers on this system for their hearty co-operation given me in my visit to each station, which resulted in having but a very few delin- quents and nons. I would like to know how many of you $re wearing a Plumb Plan League button and also your O. R. T. button, talking O. R. T. to*your brother telegraphers daily in a real fraternal way and also talking to the people you come in contact with about the Plumb Plan League? This is your fight brothers and sisters, so don’t let it be said that we were asleep at the switch. Read the details and see what it means to you. I believe it will solve the railroad labor trou- bles. If we are to better ourselves we must make a radical change by passing from the passive to an active stage. There are too many in the passive class as shown in our vote just taken. Would you expect to win a battle against an active enemy? That is the position we are in -when the members are not enough interested in their own wel- fare to spend a few minutes of their time in doing something that will help the cause. I have a right to say this as I am put- ting in hours where you would only put in minutes, and I do it gladly. Remember that our organization is founded on the Golden Rule, which you are all acquainted with. If you will apply this rule, there will be no occasion for any complaint and you will be giving your officers the support they need so they can make every move count It is necessary that your local chairman and your general officers have your hearty co- operation or they cannot do anything and I hope that each member in making his New Year’s resolutions this year will decide to help the Order that is trying to help him and come alive in every way. Wear your buttons, don’t speak harsh about a brother telegrapher until he proves unw*orthy, never let up on the non who is near you until he lines up, be square and honest with the com- pany you are working for and give them 100 per cent service. P. D. Neislar, G. C. Tylcr-Lufkin Division — Tyler now one hundred strong, both ”QN" and “CG.” Now let’s keep it that way and hold this splendid record. If a new man appears around your way, ask him if he has a card; If not#> why? We are glad to see Bro. Morgan back on second “QN” Tyler, after being off a month with a broken arm, relieved by Bro. Riley, for past two years with an oil company. Bro. Gimble, with freight claim ofllce a year, now in “CG” Tyler, vice Smith. Bro. Stafford, “CG,” called home owingT to his father’s illness, relieved by Bro. Peters from Division 160. Bro. Hanna, “CG,” has returned from New York, where he was trying to secure a pa- tent on his “Bug Arest,” which he expects to receive soon. Bro. Stan Liggett, “CG” Tyler, spent the week-end at Greenbriar enjoying his cottage and shooting ducks. Bro. Rickard, Alto, spent a few days in Dallas recently relieved by Bro. Thomas from Waco. Bro. Satterfield, first Lufkin, spent several days with friends at Corsicana, relieved by Bro. Ray. Bro. Fisk bid in Broaddus and Bro. Gen- try Huntington agency. “Dick,” Cert 274, “CG.” Seaboard Air Line Ry., Div. 28. Florida Division — Bro. Kelley back after three weeks’ cane grinding, hunting, fishing and visiting rela- tives in Alachua, Suwannee and Bradford counties, relieved Bro. H. A. Owens, third Waldo, who relieved Bro. Owens, agent Haw- thorne, a few days. Later Bro. Kelley re- lieved Bro. Hogan and Bro. Pullen at Waldo. Bro. Jones, agent Archer, Local Chairman Padgett at Anthony and Bro. Whitlock, agent Mulberry, a few days. Bro. F. A. Sanders opened new second Highland, and Bro. Pullen, third new Citra, pending bids. Bro. Roy Owens bid in Leesburg agency, succeeded at Coleman agency by Bro. Cly- burn, second Starke ; Bro. Mack McLean, Digitized by tjOOQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 101 second “ON,*' and Bro. riatt, clerk-operator, Tampa. Send me some news. D. E. Lundy, A. L. C., Plant City, Fla. E. C. Division — Bro. McKnight was relieved seventeen dajra by Lloyd from the W. U., who later re- lieved Bro. Calhoun a few days. Bro. Russell bid in second Poston, relieved by Bro. Coney, on second Gibson. Bro. Woodberry, third PoBton, relieved a few days by Bro. Pullen. No meetings have been held for some time owing to sickness and non-attendance ; meet- ings are not very interesting with only one member present. Boys, take more interest in the meeting. In no other way will you get any benefit out of your dues unless you do so and line up the nons. Meetings are held every Sunday at Andrews at 3 p. m. No certain meeting place yet, but it is quite a small city and you won't have any trouble locating the hall. Dispatcher Boyd, is back as night chief, McDees relieved him on first with Hembry on swing East to third ; Bro. Tommie John- son on car clerk’s job. Hope we will get that position under our contract and that he wifi hold it. My write-up for December was received too late, please let me have your notes in time so I can arrange and get them to St. Louis before the 26th of the month. Hope 1930 will be a prosperous year for every member and the O. R. T. in general. Jim Richardson, . Asst. Local Chairman. N. Y., N. H. & H. R. R., Div. 29. London Sub-Division — Operator clerk’s position. Submarine Base, abolished. Bro. A. L. C. Ringey displacing Bro. Murray at Mystic. N Sister Florence M. Maloney, third at Taft’s, still on sick list, has our sincere sympathy and we hope for her early recovery ; also Bro. Earnest Skelton, third Hills Grove. Our genial Local Chairman has put in a busy two weeks with the brothers on the Narragansett Pier Branch, drafting a sched- ule which has been presented to the officials at New Haven. Bro. Bowler succeeded in making that road solid and he and Bro. S. H Gould, agent Peacedale, R. I., chairman N'ammgansett Pier Branch, then visited New London and New Haven and met the offi- cials. Highwaymen are now trying to relieve us of what loose change the profiteering mer- chants happen to overlook. Recently a flag- man out in New Haven Cut was held up and left nothing but his trousers, shirt and socks. Another before going out to flag, left hJs watch and money with one of the pas- sengers. The footpads notified him if they ever held him up again and he had nothing for them lie would be shot. Self-Imposed justice is the most effective in such cases, if the victim of their intentions is given an opportunity to administer a cold lead i treat- ment. The only good one of this species of humanity is a dead one. The recent cold snap in New London, 10 below zero, made one wish he had some of the money spent for ice last summer to buy coal w'ith now. Train service was nearly paralyzed for a time on account of the sud- den change. With Bro. Bowler, L. C., will wish you all a Happy New Year. Send in your dues promptly so we can keep New London Division solid. As noted in December Telegrapher, page 1690, remit them to Bro. T. O. Tiger, P. O. Box 696, New Haven, Conn, Your Mutual Benefit dues should be sent to Bro. C. B. Rawlins, St. Louis, Mo., as usual. E. H. Scriven, Cert. 480, No. 141 Park Ave., New London, Conn. Providence Council— The enthusiasm and former business tact for which we were noted for many years seems to be slowly slipping from us. Our meeting December 20th drifted into debate upon technical points which, at a time like this seemed inopportune. The attendance was unusually small. We should attend meetings regularly and manifest the same interest and spirit as of former days. The election of new officers will probably take place at our next gathering. The following resolution was unanimously adopted : Resolved, That when Division No. 36 ceases to exist as such, that it be known as Providence Council of System Division No. 29. Our Beneficial Association held its annual meeting December 20th, and all the old offi- cers re-elected without opposition. A re- vision of Its by-laws will be cared for by the Board of Management at the call of the president. The secretary-treasurer’s report shows a successful year's work ; net receipt $2,037.23, disbursements $2,038.96. There are 150 members and they received $10.10 refund, a splendid showing. Several new applications for membership were filed. Because of the passing of Division No. 36, it was voted to change our name to “Provi- dence Beneficial Association" of the Order of Railroad Telegraphers. The wish for a Happy and Prosperous New Year is tendered Bro. President Manion, his board of official workers of every kind and the army of co-laborers In our grand organi- zation everywhere. Cert. 181. Digitized by tjOOQle

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102 Tiie Railroad Telegrapher. D. L. & W. R. R., Div. 30. No write-up from the Syracuse and Utica Division has appeared’ in The Telegrapher recently, owing to our members not sending in the items in compliance with my several requests. If you want our division news you must keep the correspondents posted on changes in your office, relief, etc. Bro. H. A. Carey of West Winfield has very kindly offered his services as correspondent of the Utica Division, but he cannot write-up the news on that division if the items are not sent him, not later than the 16th of each month. His first write-up appears in this issue and it sure looks good. We will en- deavor to call meetings in Binghamton. Cort- land and Syracuse directly after the holidays, and want every member to attend at, least one of the meetings. General Chairman Far- ley will be present It will do us all good to get together at these meetings and get better acquainted with each other, one of the principal reasons for calling them. We w’ere greatly pleased to receive a de- cision in our favor from Board Three at Washington in Bro. Arthur Still’s case, who wfas reclassified as ticket clerk, w'hen Sup- plement Seven became effective, although he had always before acted and received com- pensation as an assistant ticket agent. The company, however, would not pay him ac- cording to Supplement Thirteen as it would mean a larger salary for him, and his many years of faithful service counted for naught. The case was handled with the officials, who claimed they could not allow' his back pay for the period he was working under Sup- plement Seven. It was then submitted to Board Three, w’hich decided case In his fa- vor. The schedules have been mailed to each employe, if any fail to get one, w’rite Mr. Cizek for a copy. Study the working agree- ment very carefully and be ready to report any infringements promptly. There seems to have been a good many thus far. Nowr, brothers and sisters, let’s get back into the limelight again in The Telelgrapher and stay there. Our division is big enough to have a column each month if you will each make up your minds to send in the items. As the year draws to a close I want to thank every member of Division 30 for their splendid support and co-operation during 1919, and' trust the new year will see you just as interested and loyal as you have been in the past. With best wishes for the new' year, I am Yours in S., O. and D.. C. C. Cooper, G. S. & T. Utica Division — Bro. Polly, agent Bridgewater, N. Y., re- cently walked five miles at 4 ;30 a. m. to attend the agents’ meeting in Binghamton, N. Y., being the only representative from Richfield Springs Branch. Bro. J. F. He'enan, second Richfield Junc- tion, wTas off a few days recently. Bro. A. A. Striker is appointed agent at New Hartford, vice Bro. C. L. Reed, resigned ♦to take up his store duties at New Hartford, N. Y. We all wish them both great suc- cess. Bro. N. W. Churchill, second Clayvdle, N. Y., appointed agent Clayville, N. Y., vice J.. G. Eustace, later succeeded at Owego by Sister Margaret Barrett Cert. 144. Missouri Pacific R. R., Div. 31. Joplin Division — Bro. E. P. Dill, first Cornell, was relieved two weeks by Bro. Honey, second there, while taking his wife to Hot Springs, Ark., for treatment. We all sincerely hope for her permanent recovery. Third Cornell cut out during the coal strike is open again, filled by Bro. G. R. Corwin; Bro. Murty, re- lieving on second. Bro. Sol. Williams, Englevale, has taken his wdfe to a hospital and we regret to learn that she is In a serious condition. Bro. Clark Duncan, second Hnrrisonville, was relieved by Bro. Corwin, while on his wreddlng trip to St Louis. The boys all join in best wishes for a happy married life. Bro. Corwdn also relieved Bro. R. J- For- man, third Webb City, who had typhoid fever, now able to sit up, and later relieved Bro. Wiggins, first there, a fewr days on the sick list. Bro. Rullman succeeds Bro. G. R. Roberts at Mound City agency, who goes? on extra. Bro. M. E. Smith went to Adrian agency. Former Bro. R. L. Rader, w'ho went into the banking business three years ago, back with us again was greeted with a set of blanks as soon as he arrived. Bro. C. M. Harris, second Rick, visiting friends in Kansas City a week, was relieved by Creason from the Florida East Coast. The oil booms in Oklahoma and Texas are attracting quite a lot of capital from the railroad men in this vicinity. Bro. S. J. Armstrong, lately of Ore, is now with a pipe line company at Bar jtlesv file, Okla. We wish him success. Bro. Chas. E. Tenny, formerly of Horton, is giving the boys a chance to share In his oil holdings around Bernice, Okla. Bro. C. M. Heaton, agent Cornell, on two months’ leave, may not return to us. It is now Bro. Claude Plain at Butler, mak- ing it solid there. Bro. Arnold, second But- ler, is now nicely located in the new homo he recently purchased there. The house Bro. Teddy Wolfe, first Butler, lived in, part of an elevator property there was taken by the manager of the concern and the brother had to locate elsewhere. Digitized by U-ooQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 103 Bra E. C. Hawkins, back on third Rich Hill, was relieved by Bro. Armstrong'. Third Archie, closed during the coal strike, reopened by J. L. Braden, a good prospective member. Let us make 1920 a banner year for the 0. R. T., stay “Hep” to the job during the whole year and give our nice bunch of offi- cers and dispatchers at Nevada thp best in us. The best way to help the Order if you have not already done so, is to grab one of the ANNEAL cards that Bros. Rawlins and Morgan are so anxious to dish out to you. Then you will not have to bother yourself or them any more for a year. The assistance of Bros. Duncan. Honey and Clinkenbeard is acknowledged. C. V. Rowe, Local Chairman. Operations Seemingly Successful — Bro. M. L. Brown, one of our very old members, has been in the Mo.-Pac. Hospital for the past three weeks, having undergone two serious operations, w'hich seemingly wfere successful. He desires to thank the boys on the Joplin Division through The Teleg- rapher for the many inquiries from them ; that he is rapidly recovering and expects to be out in a week or two. N. S. M., 3t. Louis, Mo. Baltimore A Ohio R. R.f Div. 33. Indiana Division — The abundance of testimony offered, in- tending to show' that assurance had ( been given, to the effect that the Lever act would not be construed to apply against Labor in attempting to better conditions, seems to warrant the statement that, "Somebody pre- varicated.” In referring to the present situation of things, the Cincinnati Chronicle says : <(Men who pick gold dollars out of the air will never sell the world a receipt for its indus- trial salvation ” The action of the General Committee has resulted in further settlements giving recog- nition to Norwood, Brighton and Storrs agent positions, and all relief agents. The applica- tion of Supplement 13 will be speedily car- ried forward and the rates of pay to apply to these newly acquired positions made known as soon as possible. Should the application of Supplement 13 tend toward a reduction in wages at any of them, an immediate re- port should be made to the local chairman, stating all facts plainly. General Chairman Lewis says: "It is hardly necessary to say that we will endeavor to protect their in- terests. Please call attention to the fact that they are entitled to overtime after eight hours, the Sunday rule, and various other provisions of the agreement." I frequently refer to the " Cincinnati Chron- icle” in the composition of fraternal items. It is an eight-page weekly owned and con- trolled by the Central Labor Council, 1311 Walnut street, Cincinnati, Ohio, and repre- sents the opinions of the American Federa- tion of Labor in the foremost national events, and the price Is one dollar a year. Those who desire up-to-date union information will find the money for a year’s subscription W'ell spent. Several might go together on the expense. Div. Cor. Ohio Division — A Plumb Plan League witn fourteen or- ganizations represented in it has been or- ganized at Chillicothe, Ohio. Bro. Harris of Chillicothe, and Bro. Miller of Washington "CH,” representing the operators. You are earnestly requested to join and help boost the plan. Meetings will be held at Chillicothe off and on open to everybody. Account consolidation with Penna Co. at Loveland, Ohio, hourly rate increased from 61% cents to 67 cents, o% cents increase on the hour to take effect September 1, 1918, back pay amounts to $175. Consolidation at Hillsboro, Ohio, with the N. & W. caused a rate increase from 68 to 76 cents an hour. Effective September 22, 1918. Back pay amounts to $260. Madeira, Ohio, third, increased $3 a month, owing to additional w'ork. Back pay $20. Bro. Preston, third Leesburg, Ohio, was off several days recently with "flu." Bro. Romine, first Midland City, and fam- ily spent Thanksgiving at Urbana, Ohio, with relatives, relieved by Bro. Combs. Bro. Spangler, third Mt. Sterling, Ohio, re- lieved by Bro. McCoppin of Washington "CH,” several days, owing to stomach trouble. Congratulations to Bro. Jim Malone, third Athens, on his recent marriage. Bro. J. A. Bedinghaus, Farmers, received third prize in the No Accident Campaign contest. Pay your dues promptly with the back pay you are receiving. There is no excuse for not paying them soon as due. It was necessary to raise the dues account the H. C. L. and we are after still another increase, asking for an equalization of rates of pay between positions of similar class and 17 cents an hour in addition to this. We have made great progress in the year just ended and indications point to even greater prog- ress in 1920. Every brother should make it his business to get after the few nons left and send me a few notes in time for the next write-up. Lem, Cert. 729. Cleveland Division — Our committee has succeeded in getting the schedule closed up. The blame for the Digitized by Google

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104 The Railroad Telegrapher. long delay is owing to the fact that the management of the Baltimore & Ohio and twenty-one other roads tried to defeat Inter- pretation No. 8. Our committees have accomplished great things during the four years, with almost insurmountable difficulties to contend with. A strong organization that will use all means at its command to defeat us should the roads be turned back to private owner- ship. Those who have not received their cards for the present term should remit at once and keep up to date, as it is v5ry necessary to have a solid organization to back our stand under any emergency that may arise. Our division is 100 per cent. Let us keep it that way all the time. Bro. Ellis was reinstated by Board No. 3, which ruled that his dismissal was unwar- ranted. This case was carried up from the division operator to the highest official, all deciding unfavorably to Bro. Ellis, but at the hearing before Board 3 at Washington a favorable decision was rendered. It pays to belong to the O. R. T. in more ways than one. I trust when my list is returned to me I will find that you have all showm your ap- preciation for my work by every one being up to date and no delinquents. W. A. McCabe, Cert 705. * Newcastle Division — We are having severe cold weather, the mercury hovering near the zero mark. It is now Bro. N. C. Girberd* F. S. Tower. Floral fund papers sent out Dec. 15th. Only a trifle over $10.00 remaining in this fund. Let us build It up to cover any un- looked-for emergency. Bro. G. L. Artz refused third Newton-Falls and resigned rather than work extra. Broth- ers, don’t bid on positions not wTanted, as you must go on the extra list if application is not withdrawn before being assigned. Bro. F. C. Watson to second Boughtonville, displaced by Bro. Horrisberger on second T. F. Tower. Brothers keep me advised as to the various changes. Local chairman McBride is spending sev- eral months southland. We all wish him a safe and pleasant Journey, hoping he had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Let us make every effort to get in the very few non-members on the division and make it solid for 1920. The results of the past year are very gratifying. Keep the good w'ork going. Everybody boost. Wishing all a Happy New Year. R. Gliddon, Cert. 1998. 363 N. Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, O. Connellsville Division — Hold fast to those 1920 resolutions. There never was a time in its history when the organization needed our support more than right now. Let’s keep solid and be prepared for any emergency. It is now Bro. C. C. Mclnturff, Union- town, Pa, It is not only your duty to carry out the provisions of our wage schedules to the letter but also to see that no violations are prac- ticed by any one concerned. The increased rates and back pay from Interpretation No. 8 may be somewhat late reaching us but are Just as sure as your tax notices, and you’ll probably need it as badly in 1920 aS you would have in 1919. The long arm of that McKeesport gas dis- trict finally reached Bro. Margroff at Hynd- man and he now has that as well as elec- tricity as a lighting proposition. An intruder attempted to gain entrance to Adams, Pa., office recently while Sister M. A. Boyer was on duty during the wee small hours. She promptly notified Dispatcher Walters at Somerset and an engine was im- mediately sent to Adams with enough arma- ment to equip a Smith & Wesson warehouse, but the culprit vanished before its arrival The attendance at the Connellsville meet- ing the evening of Dec. 4th exceeded the fondest hopes of the local chairman. Inter- pretation No. 8 and many things of local in- terest were discussed. Bro. Yeager, of Pitts- burgh, gave a very Interesting talk. Many in attendance are to be commended for be- ing present. It meant the loss of a night’s sleep for them, as all efforts to secure so much as one extra stop for Train No. 10 proved unavailing. Unsuccessful efforts to have this slight concession granted us, fully explained at the meeting, was the cause of not having any division meetings previous to this one. We hope these conditions can be overcome In the future that will make these meetings more frequent. Bro. C. M. Dunlop, Morgantowm, in a sani- tarium with tuberculosis for some months, was the recipient of a very generous sub- scription from the members on the division in time for Christmas. Bros. Bevington, Gaumer and Medford are deserving of much commendation for the manner in which they handled this matter. Cert. 142. Monongah Division — Let us all back our local chairman to the limit. Give him our loyal support. Pay your dues promptly and not oblige him to send notices that w*e are in arrears. We regret to learn of the serious illness of Bro. R. E. Pepper, who is being relieved by Bro. Mclntire on first Petroleum. Bro. Miller is on first, Mrs. Mercer on sec- and McKinley third. Walker, opened, owing to heavy freight run over branch. Bro. Ross on first. Ice, second, and Sister Lew’is third, Wilsonburg. Wilson, new man, on Silver Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 105 run. Wrick on Long run and Bro. H. C. Pepper opened Haywood second. Sister Doyl has returned from three weeks' visit at Pittsburgh. Bra A. R. Bayne is back on third Smith- burg. Bra Artie Shingleton has returned to third “D" Tower from his farm. He has two hun- dred bushels of corn ready to market. General Chairman Lewis passed through Kanawha on No. 3 recently en route home. Some good news. boys. Come out to the next meeting and get * your new rate. Then you win be able to put up a good argument. Bros. L. W. Graham and L. B. Ferrell, Kanawha, attended the Shrlners* ceremonial at Parkersburg and witnessed ninety-one candidates travel the hot sands. The former and Bro. Steurer, of Parkersburg, were re- cent Baton and Petroleum callers. Bro. Waldo has resumed on second Bridge- port after several weeks off. Sister B. M. Graham, second Kanawha, on sick list. Bro. Engle relieving. Wishing you all a prosperous New Year, and that you will all pay your dues promptly and assist your local chairman. Cebt. 60. Baltimore Division — The Washington branch was poorly repre- sented at the Hotel Rennert meetings Dec. 17th. Those who failed to attend missed a lot of good Information. Each member must study the new schedule thoroughly and then observe it rigidly. The use of the telephone between train- men and dispatchers is increasing and the practice is encouraged by a few brothers. Interlocking men have plants at Mt. Airy Junction and Carrolls out of service for im- provements. A "loop” now being built at Mt. Royal will soon be put in service. Bro. G. S. Gilbert Is now occupying his new home at Mt. Airy. It took a long time to get the well drilled. A Pensy Flyer tried to buck a Ford at Bengies Station, which resulted in the engine and one car being ditched and several P. R. R. trains being detoured over our road. Bro. L. M. Harper, working his first night at North Avenue, had his hair turn gray when a Belt Line motor cut a P. R. R. train in two on the crossing. Bro. George Hueter, on leave for two years, is expected shortly to resume Mt. Royal. Monrovia, Marriottsville and Grays closed temporarily. Bro* J. D. Wheeler, who Is expected soon to retire, has been off on account of his daughter’s illness. Bro. L. N. Sherman lost Woodbine agency by bidding on a job for fun. Let us try a little “No card, no favors” on the few persistent nons, who are waiting for a closed shop before Joining. Div. Cor. Pere Marquette R. R., DVv. 39. Canadian Division— Bro. H. Julian has returned to short time after relieving along the line. Mr. Lagan, second Sambra, is still “think- ing it over.” Meanwhile, brothers, “No favors” On account of the scarcity of coal Trains Noe. 2, 3, 13 and 14 were cut off Dec. 12th, but were put back again Dec. 16th. Blenheim Junction is now solid with Bros. Rumble, Millington and Galbraith on first, second and third, respectively. Bro. Estabrook, agent Wallaceburg, spent Christmas at his parents’ home in Merlin. Bro. Bauchner, third Blenheim, was a re- cent Montreal visitor, and Bro. Maher, first there, spent a week at his old home. Chatham, days, is still open and no one bidding on It. “B,” Cert 470. Hocking Valley R. R., Div. 40. The wife of Bro. H. B. Wilson, Cert. 1638. 330 South Maple street, Lancaster, Ohio, has been bedfast continuously for the past three years. Recently the members of this division raised and presented Bro. Wilson with a very generous contribution, which came as a great surprise to himself and family. They wish to express their heartfelt thanks for this token of the sincere sympathy and brotherly kindness, a symbol of the mem- bers’ hearts true sentiments, based on the righteous principles of brotherly love. Erie Railroad, Div. 42. Bro. Orcutt succeeds W. S. Van Keuren, Savona agency, relieved by Bro. Burlingame, on second Bath, and Bro. O’Neil, operator Cohocton, succeeds E. B. Van Keuren on the agency there. Bro. Murphy, who relieved Agent Greene, at Springwater, who had a stroke, was taken sick and relieved by Bro. S. D. Jacobs. Bro. Badger is back at Mt. Morris. Geo. Aver ill, formerly a motorman on the Rochester Division, sick some time, died sud- denly at his home a few days ago of neu- ralgia of the head. We extend our sympathy to the family. Bro. Mitchell, first “HO” Tower, sent his Southern bride home for the Xmas holidays. Just in time to dodge the severe cold weather. Members, please “Pay up” before the sixty days expire. Don’t neglect this and become delinquent, after our brave efforts to make the division 100 per cent. The remaining nons are hard to approach and should be handled by members well adapted for that work, principally those acquainted with or working alongside of them. The trouble is that no one seems to have any ambition. You all leave It for one man to do because you yourself are a member Digitized by Google

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106 The Railroad Telegrapher. is no reason why you should lose all interest in the others. We all expected a 100 per cent membership by the end of the year, but have been disappointed. Unless we can get after the nons jointly we may never boast of a full membership. Cert. 1735. Chicago Terminal — It is now Bro. Radilyack. third "HY.” Bro. Abbott, second “HY,” slipped and fell down the tower steps December 11th, break- ing his leg, relieved by Brody, and he on Hammond Bridge, second, by Clow, a new’ man. I'm on his trail, just waiting until he recovers from the excitement of just becom- ing a “daddy.” Bro. H. M. Smith, formerly on first "HM,” has a vibroplex, W'hich he will sell reasonable. “Smithie” hasn't telegraphed for over two years, but is still a member of Division 42. We are glad to see Mr. Ward back at Chicago, a fine fellow to deal with. “CA" has a new bug, more work for the lineman. “NCNF” good and strong for 1920. Don’t forget your dues. Happy New Year. “X.” Duluth, Win. & Pac. R. R., Div. 43. A meeting was held in West Duluth pas- senger station December 7th, to talk over rules, etc., of new schedule, which had just been signed up and satisfaction was gen- erally expressed with the wages which went into effect October 1, 1918, and rules, Decem- ber 1, 1919. Sixteen members were present represent- ing all stations with the exception of Ray and Ericsburg. A canvass of the road shows very nearly 100 per cent membership, one non at Ray and one at Cook. Both promised to be up-to-date January 1st. Believe the agent at Taft will come in after the first of the year. Understand there is one non in the dispatcher’s office at Virginia. Former Bro. Oscar Ericson, now on third Cook, if not up-to-date will be very soon. It wFas agreed that special assessment of $10 for agents and operators and $20 for dispatchers be levied and remitted to Gen- eral Secretary and Treasurer Palmer for the credit of this division. Business is getting good, full crews are being increased and it is rumored that an- other of our big engines is coming back from Canada to handle trains over the North End. We hope they can soon be run over the entire line. All the members of the division extend Bro. McDonald a vote of thanks for the efforts he put forth as local chairman. Wishing you all a Happy New’ \rear. Div. Cor., Cert. 1198. St. Louis Terminal R. R. Assn., Div. 47. There has been much spirited bidding for the different positions of late, and the boys feel joyous to know that they have such a privilege. Thanks to Cert. 16 for his write-up last month. It was very well constructed and I hope he will continue with the good work. It is very gratifying to the General Commit- tee to have the other members take an active part in the work of the division. We hope thje Cummins bill for the disposi- tion of the railroads wi 1 be defeated in Con- gress, and sofnnt on the “Frisco" near S;. Jam s Mo. The mem- bers of Division 47 expre-s-d their sym- pathy for Bro. Hillis with a floral tribute. Cert. 5. Detroit, Toledo & Ironton Ry.f Div. 48. Let's all work vigorously for a solid 100 per cant numb- rslbp- \Y'* si - A I r. ga: t our future welfare tn«rn to s mp.irt prop fly ID is great organization th.-t ha- mad.' it pos- sible for us to have* a lb inu in this world. If you know of a d.’im nmnt wiih or n<*ar you, urge him to pay up at otm, am k p after the few "nons” on this sy.-tem. Sr nr- of them only need a little urging to com * with us. We are doing better than ev r b fore and we attribute this to the co-op- ration of the membership, which counts so much. Remember that grievances should he han- dled with the proper company official by the individual before taking them up with your local chairman. Get everything that’s com- ing to you or “yell.” Am exceedingly pleased over the way our officials are co-operating with us in our work, by advertising every position, instead of the old way of shuffling the agent? and operators around, irrespective of seniority or justice in the se moves. Some corrections have been made in the irregular handling of the various changes. If these grievances are promptly called to our attention they w’ill soon be eliminated. All these things are new, but if we work together w’e can make improvements that Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Teleorapher. 107 will b« to our benefit and you will find that $6 dues will look like the best investment you have made for a long time. It is now Bro. L. H. .Welch, agent Iron- ton, Ohio. We are all glad to hear that ‘•Larry” is with us. This makes all of our large agencies solid. It is also Bro. Hudson, Columbus Grove, Ohio, transferred from Di- vision 2. Jackson agency is again bulletined. Do not know where Bro. McAulifTe is going, but we extend him our thanks for the favors he has shown us and wish him success.. Business has been very dull owing to the coal strike, but we hope to make up for all lost time since the strike has been settled. After several months waiting, and many meetings, our schedule has been approved by our general manager, and is now' in the hands of Regional Director Hardin for his approval. General Superintendent Kavanagh expects it to be back in his office shortly, when it will be turned over to the printers. Copies, with interpretations will be mailed out immediately. Our officials are already giving us the benefits of this agreement. Brothers, send me all the notes you can. They will be greatly appreciated. I cannot make this write-up a success without some help. Those wrho don’t help haven't any kick coming. Also help line up the few nons. Remember they received the same increase and back pay as we did and should help us to turn the wheels. J. C. Barrett, second Jackson ; G. C. Murphy, South End "GO,” and V. C. Baughn, agent Jeffersonville, advise they will be with us after January 1st Bro. Tripp is back on third Thackery, after relieving Bro. Gray at South Solon, and Bro. Cookston at Rosewood, for a few days each. Keeping the “Kernel” busy these days, but it helps his complexion. Bro. “Slim” Smalley, agent Jackson Cen- ter, was relieved several weeks by Bro. Blank of second. Show Osborn on third how to fill out an application blank. G. W. Lowery. Denver A Rio Grande R. R., Div. 49. first Division — Bro. Wallace relieved Bro. Dahlberg, Park- fiale. w'hile visiting in Chicago during the holidays. Sister Dobberteen. Larkspur called to Cali- fornia account death of little neice, relieved by Mr. Gier just out of the navy, formerly with Division 32, who promises to be in line with his first month's pay. Sister Mc- Neil of Larkspur spent holidays in Texas, relieved by Sister Fimple of the Santa Fe. Although the committee secured about six hundred dollars back pay and an increase in wages for our agent at Canon City, he fears a card will mean a black eye w ith the company. Our trainmaster on the South End hasn’t any signs of black eyes. Bro. O’Brien, Wasenburg agency, has been putting in about sixteen hours, account ex- tra work occasioned by coal strike. The writer worked a few days there, account ill- ness young son of Bro. Mills, later relieved by Bro. Andrew’s, second division, who re- lieved Bro. Domka, third Texas Creek, w’hen he took Howard agency. Bro. McCow’an waived claim to Castle Rock, second, due him account military serv- ice and w’ent on extra list, leaving the w’riter on that position. He spent the holidays with his parents in New Mexico. Understand Bro. “Dad” Wright, of Rouse, is off with a broken* rib. No particulars. We need the applications of Harrison, Glatzel, Gillispie and Gier to get us back to the one hundred per cent mark we boasted of a few' months ago and w*e appeal to the First Division members to bear this in mind. Your attention is directed to this month’s department devoted to the Ladies' Auxiliary. Local 49 of the L. A. will appreciate any assistance that can be given. F. B. Rose, Asst. Local Chairman. Bessemer A Lake Erie R. R.f Div. 51. Senator Hustlng speaking in favor of the Lever act on the Senate floor just before pas- sage of the bill said : “I am authorized by the Secretary of La- bor, Mr. Wilson, to say that the administra- tion does not construe this bill as prohibiting strikes and peaceful picketing and will not so construe the bill and that the depart- ment of justice does not so construe the bill, and will not so construe the bill." — Congres- sional Record, Sixty-fifth Congress, first ses- sion, page 5904. Don’t forget you should receive time and a half for all w?ork outside your regular hours. Don’t make it harder for some one else to collect it In November items from Division 54, Pasco Division, I notice where an operator was dis- charged for violating the nine-hour law, there are several places here where this should be watched. If you don’t know the law, w'rite to the I. C. C., Washington, D. C., and ask them for a copy of it Bro. Hedeen, first “XB” Tower, w’ho re- lieved Manager Buchanan, Company Hotel, North Bessemer, several w'eeks, wras relieved by Bro. McCarrier. Bro. Renick, agent Unity, is enjoying the sea breezes on the shady side of palm trees in Florida. Glen Wiley, assistant to Bro. V. P. Lyman, agent Cranesville, w'as recently married. The special meeting held at Albion, Decem- ber 11th, was largely attended, both after- noon and evening, and proved unusually in- teresting as w'ell as Instructive, running Digitized by Google

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108 The Railroad Telegrapher. more than an hour beyond the usual closing time. General Chairman Miller, assisted by Sec- retary Keane, gave a general outline of busi- ness transacted while at St Louis. Bro. D. H. Edwards, State Line, gave a very interesting talk on “The Bight to Or- ganize." An interesting feature of the evening meet- ing was a debate by Bros. L. R. Gregory and M. C. Hahn, “The High Cost of Living" vs. “The Cost of High Living,” after which Bro. C. G. Grove delivered a forcible ad- dress on ‘'Rounding Up the Non." The severe cold weather and bad condi- tion of the roads made it impossible for the Conneaut brothers to bp present The meeting at Butler, December 13 th, was also largely attended. Interesting addresses by Bros. J. C. Marquis, O. F. Whitford, C. B. Davis and Wm. McClung. Important busi- ness was discussed and everyone posted on the general outcome. State Line, Pardoe. “ON" Tower and Oneida have been closed indefinitely, and Springboro first and third ; Bro. C. W. Mc- Dowell on second at the latter point Bro. G. W. Snadaker was a recent Erie, Pa., visitor, and Bro. H. G. Kugler, first “YA" Tower, went to Buffalo to see “Santa" — Mrs. Kugler is now the proud possessor of a set of beaver furs. Bro. C. P. Donahue is off on leave, forking for the “Nickel Plate," west of Cleveland. I have been appointed correspondent for Division 61. Please send all the notes of importance possible to me at Albion, and we’ll try and make this Division 61 one of the leaders with a nice write-up every month. I must have your notes not later than the 20th in order to insure their insertion in the following isgue. Don’t forget that the “Dinger" was a howling scream, and with your support we’ll make our write-up each month the same. J. D. Hossler, Jr., Div. Cor. Southern Pacific Ry., Pac. Sys., Div. 53. Loa Angelea Division — A well attended meeting was held Novem- ber 29th, in Labor Temple, Los Angeles, and many constructive suggestions and talks were made. The non question did not have to be dealt largely with owing to the scarcity of that element on this division. The subject of an O. R. T. Club was ably covered, to include the Salt Lake Line, Santa Fe and S. P. ; there is, no doubt, of the good such a club can accomplish. There were about thirty-five present including General Chair- man Cull and Local Chairman Meador. When these two brothers arrive at a meeting they are always accompanied by Major Attention and General Interest. Sister Bailiff, agent Cabazon, is entitled to a big prize for coming, she worked until 4 p. m. then drove to L. A. with friends, re- mained until the meeting adjourned, and drove back, arriving at Cabazon at 6 :30 a, m., on account of auto trouble detaining them en route. A pretty good record com- pared with some of the members employed in “HU" Los Angeles office who failed to attend, although living in the city. There may have been others who came long dis- tances at a great inconvenience, but a com- plete list of those present is not available at this writing, so mention is not made of them. Bro. and Mrs. J. Beaton are living in Los Angeles again, Bro. Jack taking the tem- porary position at “WD" Shops, after being relieved a few days at Edom by Bro. Baum- gardner. Bro. Youngblood relieved Bro. Thurman, third Palm Springs, also Bro. Cambridge, third Mecca, to allow the latter to attend O. R. T. meeting. Carpinteria second, Moorpark third and Colton and India, fifth and sixth discontinued. Bros. Hinkle and Kays fl*om Colton to third Chatsworth and El Centro, respectively. Bro. Youngblood and Sister Tuttle from Indio to second Mecca and housekeeping, respectively. Later Sister Tuttle relieved Bro. Rorer at Coachella several days while he went to L. A. to ride the Shrine camel across the heated sands. Bro. Klndig bid back second Sangus again after trying first there for a month. The Farmers’ and Merchants’ National Bank of Los Angeles still continues to con- demn labor. One of its late arraignments, enunciated in its monthly financial letter is that labor is buying too many luxuries, in- cluding autos. It will be to the interest of those who are able to purchase a home in this state to have it registered under the Torren’s land title law, you will then have laid the axe forever to private title companies, who are becoming fabulously wealthy by charging the limit to the small owner. Under the Torren’s system, the state guarantees the title for the modest sum of one dollar, against a charge of from $10 to $100 by the private concerns. Bro. A. H. Haworth relieved Bro. Thomp- son, agent Chatsworth, when he went to Moorpark ; Bro. O’Connell, agent Coachella, while touring the Middle West, bumped Bro. Frew from third Chatsworth to the extra list, who relieved Bro. Bruce, Ventura, several days ; Haworth then displaced Bro. Free- man, agent Duarte, after Bro. Hinkle went to Chatsworth. Bro. B. C. Moore relieved Bro. R. E. Gip- ple, second Bassett, a short time, and Bro. Clements also took several days off. One dollar spent for gas will take you about seventy-five miles, one dollar spent for membership in the Plumb Plan League will Digitized by C-oooLe

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I The Railroad Telegrapher. 109 help to advance one hundred and ten mil- lion people many years toward a real indus- trial democracy. How long will you be in deciding this issue? Bro. J. E. Sloan, agent Santa Barbara, has been elected mayor there by popular vote, which bespeaks volumes for him. It is one of the foremost beauty spots of our state. Many people of prominence* throughout the United States have residences here. It is understood that former Secretary of the Treasury McAdoo not only has an attractive home here, but is seeking a future home also for President Wilson. Bro. Hardesty relieved Bro. Crag at Ther- mal when he took Chatsworth agency. Bro. C. C. Dickinson, manager “NG” Los Angeles, recently purchased a bungalow in the Sierra Park district, and Bro. R. E. Keyes of the same office has sold one of his properties in Los Angeles. The Farmers' and Merchants' National Bank should And in this a subject matter to discourse ably upon in its next financial letter, for what right has a laboring man to own his home? It is reported that some back pay will be forthcoming soon, we don’t know how much, but we hope it will help us keep pace with sugar and shoes. The writer is indebted to Bros. Kalies, Carl and Dickinson for their contributions hereto. Some engineers are making a practice to rush to a phone as soon as they come to a full stop to copy orders, this is especially noticeable on helper engines between Los Angeles and Indio. Comment on this sub- ject ought to be unnecessary. E. L. Burroughs, Correspondent. Coast Division — C. R. Olive, Hollister, G. R. Short, San Lucas, and E. A. Powell, Guadalupe, all hold- ing regular positions who have received all the benefits of shorter hours and Increased salary are still not willing to help support the Order that has secured these betterments for them. We also have a few delinquents, but I hope we will not have to drop any of them when the time comes. Our correspondent, Bro. Kilgore*, is at Davis, taking a course in the Agricultural School, learning how to make more prunes Stow on a tree. Bro. Shandy, Capitola, spent Xmas with his mother in Kansas City, Mo., relieved by Bro. McCann. Bro. Carl is back on third Redwood Junc- tion, having recovered from his injuries in auto accident. Bro. Stevenson is back at Felton from a trip to Yuma and other points by auto and train. Bro. Spencer in the hospital for an opera- tion is getting along nicely and should soon be out, and Bro. Grove is able to Bit up part of the time. Bro. Derr, Santa Margarita, on a three weeks’ trip to Portland, etc., relieved by Bro. Fischer, who also relieved Bro. Feldt, third Salinas, who spent Xmas on the ranch near San Lucas. Bro. Lawrence, Sargent, relieved by Car- penter, a new man, a few days on account of sickness. Bro. Miles made a trip to Nebraska and brought his mother back with him to spend the winter in California. Brothers, remit your dues to Bro. Ham- mond at once and Show that you are just as prompt in giving the Order your financial as your moral support. Let us make 1920 the banner year for the Coast Division. J. A. Merrill, Local Chairman. Valley Division — It is now Bro. Coons, first Orland, and Bro. Thomas, third Gridley, leaving second at latter point open. A good many missed their turkey Thanks- giving, it being above fifty cents a pound. Bro. Woodbury is now at Roseville and Bro. Stewart dispatching is back as Wire Chief in "H.” Bro. Bundy, second “H," has been having a session with the. dentist re- cently. Bro. Wapple, Marysville, was off a few days recently. Terminal being unsatisfactory at Gridley has been moved to Chico. Two tricks opened up at Williams and Dunnigan, Gorrell on second and one addi- tional trick at Harrigan ; the new Harring- ton Branch being open for business neces- sitates additional offices. Bro. Wilson left the valley for the hills. Sorry to lose him. Bro. Dusher on six months’ leave is now in San Francisco. Former Bro. Shields is now doing well running a tractor outfit of his own. Section Foreman Adair at Gridley won the first prize for having the best upkept section at last annual inspection. Bro. Coons has purchased a new Chevrolet and is nowr cutting the corners around Or- land and takes in the fresh air as though he were one of the four hundred. Thanks to Bro. Schneegas for his items. Some of the rest send newrs in, need assist- ance. Cert. 1126. San Joaquin District — We still have a number of delinquents on the 1919 special assessment and they have been repeatedly notified. One by one they are paying up but not with proper prompt- ness. Write the local chairman for a list. The “anti-strike” clause of the Cummins bill is a very dangerous thing for the rail- road workers and it Is hard to conceive of a Digitized by Google

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110 Tut: IUilroad TELEGRAPHER. body of legislators passing such a law. The railroad interests that promulgated it de- sire to have us in such an enslaved condition that they can reduce our pay, cancel our agreements and raise their rates as they See fit. I have wired our representatives in Wash- ington requesting them not to support this bill, which is nothing but an enslaving meas- ure as far as we are concerned. Two years after signing our 1917 agree- ment, the management have agreed to the payment of claims under Article Eleven, Sec- tion “A.” You will, therefore, be paid for time lost in transferring from one position to another. For instance, if you bid from a second to a first trick or from any position to another, either at your home station or to another location, you will be paid for any time lost in moving. We are glad that Mr. McIntyre has settled this question instead of referring each individual claim to Washing- ton. Our agreement has not been signed up and the management is making it necessary to refer a number of matters to Washington for interpretation, which will probably have to be made clear before the officials apply it. The new rate of pay under Supplement 13, Interpretation No. 8, will be of great finan- cial aid to those who wrorked overtime dur- ing the basic months. Exceptionally plain instructions had been giv£n out from Wash- ington in connection with this, but our As- sistant General Manager could not satisfy himself as to their meaning, so the matter was referred back to Washington. We trust that our schedule will soon be closed, the same as that of other roads that have no open schedules. Seven telegraphers in “K” Bakersfield, six in Mojave and five in Fresno indicates that business • is about normal. No notes received for this w^rite-up, and as I am practically isolated among the swamp logs, alkali and scorpions, my gathering of newrs notes is limited. We should have several pages of new’s from 53, owing to the size of the railroad. Some large system divisions have as many as fourteen pages of fraternal notes, but we cannot get enough news together to make one’ good write-up even from this division. Remember that I also have twro sets of accounts to handle at Gasford w’hich takes time w’hen business is good, so get busy and help me put the San Joaquin on the map. The nona need our individual attention and we should “go after” them. They are at Emmons, Fresno, Fitzpatrick and Huron. That is getting the list low’ but we should for once in the history of the O. R. T. make the San Joaquin Division solid. We are expecting former Bro. R. A. Hill, Porterville, recently returned from w’ar serv- ice, to line up again shortly. With best wishes for the new year. . L. Cartt , Local Chairman. T ucaon Division — Bro. Laughran,' third Separ, is being re- lieved by Opr. Broeder, a new man. Bro. Weiler returning from Frisco Hos- pital, November: 11th, opened Gage third; Bro. Klein and Sister Jennings reopening Aden second and third ; Afton nights closed, after Bro. Klein w’ent to Aden, no available men. Bro. George recently returning from mili- tary service opened fourth, and Opr. Lane, fifth Lordsburg, added owing to Increase of business. Miss Griggs from Tucson opened first Raso, two weeks later Sister Weiler from Bosque opened second there. First and second Sibyl opened by Bro. Hqbart and Bro. Hyde, re- turning from Salt Lake Division. Bro. Duel displaced in "UN" w’ent to Fair- bank agency pending bulletin ; Bro. Dyess displaced on third Red Rock by Bro. Boulter opened up new second Picacho during the rush, and Sister Hobart opened first and Bro. O’Connor, third Araby. Bro. E. D. Spence returning from “over- seas” opened up new eighth Tucson, later bid- ding in seventh there. We are glad to have him with us again after two years’ ab- sence. Sister Jennings relieved Sister K. B. Mor- rison, second Mescal, wTho went November 3rd to Tucson to hear the famous “Harry Lauder” sing. Later Sister Morrison relieved Bro. Reed, first Polvo, while he visited old friends at Gila and Cochise ten days, and Sister Jennings resigned and returned to her home at Oakland, Cal., owing to the illness of her mother. Business has been extra good for the past month on account of the Northern roads being unable to secure coal, many new jobs opened and all the operators cut from the board during the middle of November are back at work. Bro. O’Connor has appointed me Local Di- vision Correspondent and Secretary, vice Bro. Mahoney, resigned. Bro. Mahoney has cer- tainly shown much interest in this position, and we regret to lose him, he has a vote of thanks from the entire division for Ms good work. I will endeavor to keep up this good show- ing. but will need assistance, especially from the West End, so please send me the changes promptly. Let’s all pay dues promptly and not hold out until the last minute. Send dues for the whole year and you will be in good standing for twelve months. Wishing one and all a “Prosperous New Year.” Miss Kathryn B. Morrison, Correspondent and Secretary* P. O. Box 44, Benson, Ariz. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. Ill Salt Lake District — Our district has not been represented in The Telegrapher for several months and I have been asked to try my hand. Although it is hard to obtain information of interest to all we ought to try and have a small write-up in each month’s journal. As our local chairman says : “Interest must come from all of us.” Let's hear from some of you next month. Bro. C. C. Morse, Mill City, has gone to Texas with an oil company. Bro. George Gray, second Rose Creek, is trapping coyotes, lynx, mink, etc. At the pres- ent high prices for furs he should soon be in- dependent. Bro. Scott, third Rose Creek, spent a few days at home in Sparks re- cently. First Lovelock discontinued, Sister Stan- ton to Parran first. Again making Parran an “Adamless Eden,’* with Sisters Stewart and Tarkington on second and third. Sister Kiley has returned to “RO” Ogden, from a visit in Texas, and Br». O. M. Shan- non to first Hogup, after spending a few weeks with his parents in Frisco. Severe snow storms and blockades on the V. P. in Wyoming are causing passenger trains to arrive in Ogden from twelve to twenty hours late. This makes extra work for our dispatchers and we should give them the best we have. * The storm situation in Wyoming is re- ported by officials to be the worst in twenty years. Rotarys are being used to clear the tracks of snow drifts and some of the cuts fill up almost as rapidly as they are plowed out Although it is cold here in Nevada, we have not had that to contend with yet December 17th has come and gone and the old world still rolls on despite prophecy we have been reading about in the papers of late. It was the nicest winter's day we have yet had in these parts. Cert. 847. Northern Pacific R. R., Div. 54. Lake Superior Division — Funny, isn’t it, when a fellow refuses to join the O. R. T. ? And strange, too, when w© know it is the only protection we have. Protects us while living and our family after we pass into the Great Beyond. Of course, we are supposed to have other protection. For instance, we pay taxes and elect poli- ticians into office to protect us. But, do they do it? They do not. We join lodges to in- sure our welfare, but in all cases they do not protect our jobs ; therefore, after all, we must depend on the O. R. T. Of course, we realize that we should not have to pay out any of our hard-earned Income when we are keeping up a host of law makers, who are supposed to look after our welfare, but re- cent events proved beyond the shadow of doubt that they care nothing for the^workers, r \ and until we can elect representatives of labor into those offices it is to our interest to pay, and without hesitation, our dues to the O. R. T. Bro. Roberts, recently from overseas. Is working second North Branch, and Bro. A. Johnson, from the C. N., on second Mahtowa. Bro. Firth, who relieved Bro. D'Aoust, third Duluth, while he relieved Bro. Smith, first there, two w’eeks, also relieved Extra Dispatcher Sw-eetman, several days on sick list. • Bro. Luke, extra dispatcher, was off two weeks recently. North Branch, Hugo, Mahtowa, Anton and Zebulon, continuous service on account of coal rush. Bro. Glum, relieving on second Anton, later relieved Sister Fuller, Williow River, account sickness. Bro. Coyer, third Anton, complains because his name has been appearing as “Cover.” This Remington No. 7 is to blame for not making the “y” plainer. Bro. and Sister Lankford have returned from their three-months’ visit south to second and third Central Avenue. Bro. Hacket, relieved on third Rush City by Bro. Lindquist, relieved on first by Bro. King, went to second Deerw'ood on account of Bro. Sundeberg being on the sick list, and later relieved Bro. Anderson, third Moose Lake, w-hile he spent a few pleasant days with the dentist. Mr. Graham, a new man, is on third North Branch. One hundred per cent “Plumbers” at Carl- ton ; also, and of course, O. R. T. J. F. O'Neal, Cert. 632. Idaho Division — Bro. A. E. Elver, returning from the hos- pital, relieved at Clark’s Ford agency, re- lieved Bro. R. E. Donahue, Hope agency, wfho relieved Bro. G. D. Thorton, agent Heron, transferred to second Trout Creek. Bro. W. E. Krietz, first Trout Creek, trans- ferred to first Pullman, relieved by Sister (Peggy) Burgund, later relieved by Bro. Thornton. Bro. O. P. Stephens, relieved by Bro. Day, Reynolds, relieved Agent Green at Palouse wffien he went to the hospital. Brother Griffith, second Marshall, on trip to the Coast, relieved by Eronson, who also relieved Bro. William Barrow, agent Mar- shall. Sister B. H. Cheatham is relieving Bro. G. W. Bailey on Ramsey second. Bro. Parent, second Cheney, relieved by Eronson, having injured his hand w-hile handling baggage. Bro. A1 Younker, third Cabinet, was re- lieved a few days by Sister F. H. Brand. Digitized by C-ooQle

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112 The Railroad Telegrapher. Sister Snavelear, who relieved Sister Mor- ton, third Noxon, account of sickness, later transferred to third Plains. Bro. G. M. Stevens, first Kildee, having dental work done, relieved by Bro. G. C. Wil- liams, and he on second by Sister Sarah Williams. Those who complain that they are not noticed in the write-ups have only themselves to blame, as they won’t even take the time re- quired to send in the item. These notes were all gathered by calling up each station that could be reached. This takes time. I have appealed through this journal and by personal letters, for your co-operation neither of which seems to have any effect. Hereafter, if you want to see a write-up in the journal from the Idaho, it will depend entirely upon you. Div. Coe. Montana Division — With this issue of The Telegrapher I de- sire to resign as correspondent for the Mon- tana Division and request our local chairman to appoint someone for this w’ork. I took it with the object of trying to get a little in- terest in this part of our journal, but in three months I have only received one letter and this came from Bro. Carleton. I am sorry the members do not take any more interest in the Order. This used to be a live bunch, but they are all dead now. Bro. E. L. Stockman is slowly improving at the Missoula Hospital and hopes to be out In ten days. Bro. H. V. Arndt and family and Sister E. V. Stone and daughter desire to thank the brothers of this division and the East Helena and Springfield office forces for the beautiful floral offerings sent as a mute token of their sympathy in their bereavement, ow- ing to the death of their mother, Sarah Alice Arndt. W. H. Brooking, Livingston, Mont. Yellowstone Division — We have had many complex matters to face during the past twelve months, but have made great strides in our progress, closing the year 1919 with the largest membership in the history of the Yellowstone Division, and the largest percentage of members. These things have been accomplished by hard, de- termined work, and I desire to thank those loyal members who so materially assisted in bringing about this condition. I can see great need of a closer, more com- pleter and firmer organization as we step for- ward into an unknown future, unable to tell what there is in store for us. We, however, know that the only way to face that future is by keeping our ranks wTell filled with members of our grand old order. Therefore, it behooves everyone of us to keep our cards well paid in advance and stand firmly with our organization. Those beginning at this time cannot realize what it meant to work the long, tiresome hours the older employes had to go through, but we have advanced from those dayB through the efforts of this great organization. I sincerely trust that all the telegraphers and agents will lend their unfaltering support to this cause and that we may come to the end of another year with greater success than ever before attained. Wishing you all a Joyful New Year. E. A. Brand, Local Chairman. Members Rocky Mountain Division — The year of 1919 has been one of the moBt eventful in the history of our organization, and we enter the New Year with a stronger organization than ever before and a deter- mination to make a creditable showing dur- ing 1920. In spite of the numerous Increases and concessions secured through the activities of the organization during the past year, we still have men with us who refuse to support the organization, mostly those men are the ones wiio have received the most benefits. Hours have been reduced and overtime paid them which they never dreamed of, besides the increase in salaries and express commis- sions. No matter how hard we work this unreasonable few prevents us from bringing the division up to a 100 per cent basis, which Is one of the most discouraging features. Where I have failed possibly some other brother could succeed, and every member should have the Interest of the Order at heart enough to make every effort possible to line up these nons. I will be glad to furnish a working list to any member who will volunteer to help out. Let’s all work together to make this division solid and do it quick. I ask every brother and sister to pay dues promptly and see if we cannot get by one term with a blank delinquent list- If you failed to receive a dues notice from Bro. Nason remit him $7.50 for six months or $15.00 for an annual card, giving your cer- tificate number and he will do the rest. The insurance premium must be remitted to Bro. Rawlins direct. Let us all work for a bigger and stronger organization during the coming year. C. R. Bulli8, Local Chairman. Rocky Mountain Division — Bro. Spencer Is back on second "MD” Missoula after three months’ leave harvest- ing his crops in Wisconsin. Bro. Foster writes from San Antonio, Tex., that the roses are in bloom there, which sounds fine to some of us up here shivering and wading through snowdrifts three feet deep to get to work. Digitized by Tooele

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 113 The old world failed to freeze up on the 17th, as predicted. Now we all have to get oat and rustle more fuel, pay up the bills we let slide and buck the H. C. L. until an- other nut comes along with a promise of relief. New members : Agents S. R. Wilson, Ham- ilton ; J. J. McLaughlin, Stevensvilie ; L. W. McCarthy, Gold Creek, and A. M. Chambers, Helena Yard. The Bitter Root branch is solid for the first time in its history, every eligible employe being a member. We hope we can soon say as much for the whole di- vision. Sister Parks, operated on at the N. P. Hospital, Missoula, has recovered sufficiently to leave. Charlo, a thriving little station on the new Flathead Valley branch, has been made a regular agency, with Bro. J. B. Archer in charge. Frenchtown second and Iron Moun- tain third have been opened and numerous other new telegraph tricks will be opened temporarily, which means a heavy traffic during the next few months. Cert. 774. Seattle Division — It is rumored that a substantial raise is coming, but we have no particulars. Bristol closed on account of curtailed train service during the coal strike. Sisters Court- ney and Stringer still awaiting its reopen- ing. Bro. J. M. McBride, formerly third Ellens- burg, is back after five years spent at Har- lowton. Mont., in other lines of endeavor. He may return to work on this division. Bro. J. F. Spencer, second Ellensburg, is visiting at his home in Houston, Tex., for SO days. Sister Scott, relieving Sister Peterson on second Easton, has gone to Tacoma Hospital on account of her eyes. Relieved by Bro. Ed wall. Sister Walworth, first Bristol, and Bro. Burke, second Lester, got tangled up with the book of rules and resigned. Mr. Neves, recently discharged from' the navy, who re- lieved Bro. Burke, will be with us first pay day. Sympathy is extended to Bro. and Mrs. Whitacre, first Lestei;, in the loss of their two-weeks-old son. The railroad men around Lester presented a large floral piece at the funeral. Bro. Swanson, third Auburn depot, is off ^ick, causing Bros. McKiddy and Powell to double for two days, until relieved by Bro. Hendricks, Div. 61. Bro. Williams, first Puyallup, is back after ninety days’ leave, relieved by Bro KIley, recently returned from the colors. Bro. Caldwell, Sedro Woolley, is being re- lieved 90 days by a new man. No wTire to North End. Unable to learn his name. Bro. Glendenning, agent Woodinville, has returned from vacation ; relieved by Bro. Lucas. Bro. Powell is back on first Auburn Depot after a long illness with the smallpox ; re- lieved by Bro. Edwall and by Sister Schenie- der until she was called to “F” Seattle for relief duty. Bro. and Sister Fenner are back at Eagle Gorge after a long and pleasant trip through the southern states. Local Chairman Bergum has resigned. Too much station work making it impossible for him to handle the office without sitting up nights to do so. He has our sincere thanks for the splendid work he has done for this division and Division 64 as a whole. I hope you will give our new L. C., no matter who it may be, the same solid support given Bro. Bergum. Remember it is for the good of the order. Diy. Cor. Wheeling & Lake Erie R. R.f Div. 55. Bro. W. A. Forney bid in third Orrville Junction. Relieved at Canton yard by extra Ray Bender; G. W. Pickens, Smithville agency ; C. D. Barker, Harmon second ; Bro. C. M. Gregory, second Coshocton ; Bro. R. R. Webner, second Orrville Junction, and V. Menuez, South Lorain. Bro. C. G. Schlegel on sick list, relieved on second Brewster yard by Bro. Gregory, who later relieved Bro. J. D. Brandal, second Ninety-third Street, two days, who relieved McCreary, second Cleveland yard, three days, relieved by Mrs. L. H. Hartzell, who also re- lieved Bro. C. A. Shilling at Kent. Cert. 218. Louisville & Nashville R. R., Div. 58. Kentucky Division — Bro. Tlnch, agent at Hazel Patch, is off several days on account of the sickness of his little girl. Relieved by Bro. Collins. Bro. Farthing, third Wildie, relieved a few days by Bro. C. R. Malnes, who was later taken sick. Bro. J. R. White, third Richmond, off three nights sick, Bro. Farris and Bro. Beldon having to double one night, Bro. Malnes re- lieving the other two nights. Bro. R. B. Pergrem, third “GY,” ofT sev,- eral days sick, relieved by G. C. Maret, who also relieved J. B. Proctor two days, owing to his wife’s illness. Bro. Herd, second Sinks, relieved by Bro. T. J. Singleton, on account of the death of his aunt at Pittsburgh. Bro. V. E. Price, agent Austerlitz, relieved two days by Bro. Collins^ There was quite a rush during two days when 1,200 students returned home to various parts of the United States from school at Berea. Bro. Chasteen, first, relieved by Bro. L. Robinson to act as day ticket agent, and Bro. Mullins, second, by Bro. Collins, to act Digitized by C-oogLe

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114 The Railboad Telegrapher. as night ticket agent Mr. Anzer, of Cin- cinnati, O., also assisted in selling tickets. Red House depot was broken into on the night of Dec. 15th and a gold watch and chain, an overcoat suit of clothes and several knives taken, belonging to Bro. Stewart, the agent Pay your dues promptly this term and help make the “KY” solid and stay, in good standing. Local Chairman Davis is working for our interest. Let us show our apprecia- tion by lining up the nons. Brothers who have not paid the special assessment send it in without delay. If you could have heard Bro. Bryant's talk on this subject you wonder it was not $10.00 instead of $5.00. Starting out now. let’s make it a 100 per cent year. We must each make it our personal business to see that we get it and keep it. Remember, brothers and sisters, “No card, no favors Each division should have an “Everet True” and the “NonsY would be few. Everyone who lags behind weakens our band Just that much. Let our slogan be, “Pay up and keep paid up.” “JBP,” Cert 785. Louisville & Nashville Divisions — Bro. C. Webb and family, of Lebanon Junction, Ky., wdsh to extend their thanks to the brothers and friends there for their many acts of kindness during the illness of their little son. Also for the beautiful floral design sent for his funeral. Henderson Division — It is very important to pay our dues for the New Year promptly and wherever pos- sible remit for the entire year, thereby sav- ing a lot of work for Secretary and Treas- urer Moneypenny. Bro. H. A. Jones, agent Crofton, has been appointed local chairman for this division on account of it being too much work for Bro. Compton to act for both this and the St. Louis division. Our new local chairman is too well knowrn to need an introduction and our interests will be looked after in real O. R. T. style. Frank Redmond, Henderson freight office, bid in new third Guthrie, Memphis line side, and Walter Evitts is back on third Hender- son division side there, after several weeks stay in the West. Other new' positions creat- ed : Second Hartford and Providence. C. W. Schneider, on third Cedar Hill, re- lieved on second Adams by H. F. Holman. Sister Pedigo, Robards, relieved by Sister Moore, is on a 90-days’ trip to New Mexico. Bro. Roy McMullin, Robards, was off two days recently, hunting. Bro. Bob Jackson, second Atkinson, was on the sick list recently, Sister Nance relieving. We note with pleasure the bulletining of clerical vacancies at the different stations, putting all such positions on a seniority basis. The clerks are a bunch of live wires and are expecting an increase in wages and better working conditions, which we hope will soon materialize. Bro. S. E. Bryant’s letter in the December Telegrapher is well worth reading the sec- ond time. He brings out many points on the labor question, to which we should all give heed. Don’t fail to use your vote to help elect public officials who are friendly to or- ganized labor. Forget party differences and vote for the man wTho, in your judgment, will give the worker a square deal. Bro. Jones since his appointment as local chairman has asked me to take up the work of division correspondent, as he will not have time to attend to it. Now, brothers and sis ters, it will be impossible for me to get the news from over the division without your help. Send in some notes any time it best suits you. Don’t delay any longer getting that 1920 card. I wish you one and all a very prosperous and happy New Year. J. N. J., Cert. 610. L. C. & L. Division — Bro. Chapman is back on third Verona after three months on sick list. Bro. Sheppard, second Campbellsburg, has gone to Florida for his health, accompanied by his wife, Bro. Minor relieving. Keep on hot track of the nons and we will make them hunt their holes. Bro. Burton, second Worthville, while off eating Thanksgiving turkey and pumpkin pie, was relieved by Bro. Cross, w’ho later re- lieved Bro. Minor at Sparta, owing to the illness of his wife. We regret very much to lose our good Bro. Birmingfleld, but he has turned his interests to farming. Bro. Youell relieving until va- cancy can be filled. Bro. Ed Ragland, second trick dispatcher Louisville, attended the inauguration of Gov- ernor Morrow. We congratulate Bro. Renaker for his suc- cess in obtaining two more members to the O. R. T., J. L. Reeves, Walton, and H. E. Rucker, M. N. Tower. Local Chairman Renaker and Committee- men R. W. Lee, of Shelbyville, and L. P. Perkins, of Christiansburg, held a successful conference with Superintendent Brackslaw Dec. 4th, regarding back pay and overtime. Boys, if you want us to represent you, keep your dues up. Get an annual card for the year 1920. Bro. M. E. Cockran, dispatcher’s office, was at Camden two weeks owing to a frac- tured wrist, caused by cranking a “Lizzie.” Our last meeting in Louisville was attended by about 40 members from different roads out of that city. Bro. Rawlins and G. C. Digitized by C-oogLe

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 115 Bryant gave us a fine talk, which was en- joyed by all. Help me out, boys, and we will have a good write-up every month. Also, boys of the L. B., send me your news. W. E. Jenkins, Cert. 807. Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe, Div. 61. Talley Division — The November joint meeting with the S. P. at Fresno was well attended. We w'ere ad- dressed by Bros. Cull and Meador, of the S. P. The Santa Fe outnumbered the S. P. brothers. I believe it was the first meeting bold in Fresno attended by Santa Fe men for over ten years. We hope there will be many more in the next ten years. Bro. Snow’s young son is very sick. We all extend ”X” our sincere sympathy and hope ifie boy will soon be out again. We are glad to know that Bro. Harpel, of Sutler, who has been sick for the last two or three years, is greatly improved and will soon return to work. We all welcome our new brother, R. E. Veal, of Oakland. Brother R. C. Barnard is visiting friends *n LaFayette, Ohio. Bro. F. E. Wright, “Q," has returned from the East He couldn’t buy enough clothes to keep warm, so he returned to California. 1 Bro. P. H. Reimer, resigned, is now with the First National Bank, Reedley. Bro. Tinkham, Christie, has resigned as correspondent, as there is no post office at his station. Last month he gave his notes to a worthy conductor to mail and he carried them in his pocket so long that they missed the magazine and the Valley Division did hot appear. Assistant Local Chairman Young has a new Oldsmobile 6 and his stock has gone up over a hundred per cent with the ladies of Calwa. I desire to thank all the members for their co-operation and assistance and wish them all a Happy New Year. Let’s all try to do a little bit more for the organization in 1920 than we did in 1919. I had hoped to eliminate the three remaining nons and the one de- linquent before December 31. If you don’t know where they are located^ask me. W. J. chenoweth, Cert. 55, Local Chairman, Box 28, Denair, Cal. Albuquerque Division — Bro. M. S. Badger has been appointed act- ing local chairman and I am succeeding him ns division correspondent. Bro. L. R Green is back at Pinta after a few weeks’ visit home. Bro. E. N. Mortenson is on third Holbrook, 'ice Bro. W. E. Trukki. on third Flagstaff. New members: Louis Rose, Canyon Di- ablo ; Miss Georgians Fuller, Adamana ; F. E. Edminson, Perea, and E. N. Mortenson, Hol- brook. The following nons are: F. E. Morgan, J.. T. Bon Durant, F. E. Frost, J. L. Middleton, Weaver, Grand Canyon and Mrs. M. Koser. The “Non” hunting season is open all the time. Let’s get them. They should be given no quarter while adhering to their unfair Stand of reaping the benefits without sharing the small charges asked of them. They not only fail to help but also hinder us by the impression they create among the general public that they come into contact with. The slogan, “No card , no favors” should be uniformly put into practice in dealing with them. Brothers, in order to furnish a write-up each month, I must have your support. M. S. Garcia, Cert. 969. Arizona Division — Bro Farrington has returned from the navy and is working on third Peach Springs. Glad to have him back again. Sister Landon, second there, w?as sick one night and Bro. Farrington had to double. Bro. Mickle bid in Johannesburg agency and Bro. Rogers, from Rice, Vidal agency, vice Bro. Dreshback, to Danby agency. Bro. Danforth to first Bagdad, new position, re- lieved on third there by Bro. Ray. Bro. Berg, from Drake, bid in Ibis agency, vice Bro. O. C. Northrup, to second Ludlow'. Bro. Cleve Walker bid in first Hackberry. Bro. Blake bid in one of the third tricks at Bars tow. Sister Ruth Price, Truxton, called away suddenly on account of illness of a relative, was relieved by Bro. Klmes, from the Valley Division. Sister Briggs, second Crozier, relieved a few' days by Aitken, a new man, who also relieved Sister Thornburg, first Walapai, sev- eral days. We have several new men on the division. One on second Goffs and one at Fenner, and we want to furnish each of them with ap- plication blanks at once, if not already mem- bers. Those In touch with them please find out and notify Local Chairman Halloran if anything required. We have received the sad news of the death of Bro. J. H. Kramer, the senior op- erator on the Arizona Division, while on his vacation in Ohio. We are in heartfelt sym- pathy with the relatives of Bro. Kramer and much grieved to learn of his demise. Anyone having new’s items to send in please mail them to Barstow, as I expect to be transferred there before next month’s w'rite-up. T. E. Blake, Cert. 1814. Missouri Division — Received nothing from anyone for this write-up. Digitized by Google

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116 The Railroad Telegrapher. It is now Bro. Charles Womack, second Standish, recently promoted from telegraph apprentice in division office Marceline ; also Bro. Fred Schulte, “BO,’* second "MQ .’’ Bro. Myers, extra dispatcher, will pay up shortly and get a new card. Bro. Polhans, relieving him in "MQ" 7 a. m. to 3 p. m., is being relieved by Bro. Brown on second Marceline yard, who has bid in second Bee Creek Junc- tion. Brother W. A. Sanner is on second and Bro. James Blake third Dean Lake, and Bro. D. A. Owens, on third Hart Bro. Marvin Phillips is home on sick leave. Bro. A. M. Wilson, first Richmond, Mo., jacked up his car and was working on it when the jack broke and let "Lizzie" fall on his back, causing him to lay off about 30 days. Bro. Goodrich relieved him, relieved on second there by Bro. Byron Brown. Bro. G. W. Kennet, agent Converes, has resigned and gone on the farm near Gallatin, Mo., owing to his brother’s illness leaving him in such a helpless condition that he was unable to manage the place. We hope George will keep up his card and be able to induce his son "Bert" at Gower, Mo., to join. A few agents on this division who claim they are too old to join the M. B. D. decline to line up with us, but they are receiving the same benefits as we younger men and we are paying for them. However, we should always honor old age, boys. We sClso have a few younger nons who are waiting to see if our schedule works out O. K. before they "come fn later ” Don’t make any mistake about and honor being due them. Keep after them, and also whittle the delinquent list down to the minimum. Cert. 810. “Queen & Crescent” North, Div. 62. N. O. & N. E. Division— The meeting held in Meridian Monday night December 8th was very poorly attended, only members from Meridian being present, be- sides Bros. Hines, Shadoan and Pearce. Sev- eral important questions were discussed and explained fully by Bro. Hines and those ab- sent missed some good news. Several mem- bers were absent that could have been pres- ent. I can’t understand why the members fail to take interest enough to attend the meetings. On account of the floods and washed out tracks Bros. Hines and Shadoan were forced to abandon their trip south of Meridian, much to the regret of the boys south of "JC." New offices opened up at Savoy, Pachuta and Moselle. Business is good and everybody is getting all the work they want. Little Mark Ezelle has returned and is working third Pachuta. He promises to line up. Bro. Read will see that he doesn’t forget. The boys at “UD," **SU" and “JC" relay offices are overworked, due to extra heavy business, and we hope that the officials will soon give us some help. The Western Union people are now installing duplex repeaters at “JC" and “SU,” which will add an extra burden on these offices, although it should re- lieve the overcrowded wires. Bro. Carl Oliver, of Meridian, recently lost his father. The division offers its sympathy. At the meeting held at Meridian Bro. Hines talked of the division putting our general chairman on a salary and being relieved from other duties. We are heartily in favor of this. We should as trainmen and other or- ganizations have a salaried general chairman to look after our interests. It would only cost 75 cents or a dollar a month to do this. Is there any member on the division not able to pledge this amount? 1 now make my pledge to give this amount each month for a salaried general chairman and we could not possibly have any better than Bro. Hines. Will the other members do this? The Meridian Dispatch, a daily paper (morning) at Meridian, Miss., has been bought and taken over by the different labor organizations of that place and ff you want some good reading subscribe for it. We need more of its kind all over the country, as the others seem to be doing all they can against us. Have not been able to get any notes from the line, therefore our write-ups are slim, and after this month I will turn the job over to Bro. L. C. McGlohn, who will soon be located at Hattiesburg and in a better position than I to learn the news. S. A. Norman, Cert. 1103. First District C. N. O. & T. P.— Mrs. Lizzie Nutter Elliott* mother of Bra J. N. Elliott, Cincinnati, and Bro. W. G. Elliott, Danville, Ky., died at Georgetown, Ky.,* Dec. 10th of paralysis; burial in George- town Cemetery. She is also survived by an- other son, J. W. Elliott, an ex-telegrapher, and two daughters. Bro. C. E. Ritch, of “G" Cintl, has been appointed manager of “CX" relay, Chatta- nooga/ vice Bro. W. Hanson, assigned a trick in the same office. Brother Ray Gardner, relieving Bro. Mc- Clure, McKinney agency, goes to third Blanchct on his return. Dispatcher Crain relieved Bro. Hines and C. E. Butram, a new man, relieved Bra Shadoan while they attended meetings at Georgetown, Somerset, Oakdale, Chattanooga, Birmingham and Meridian. The meetings scheduled at Hattiesburg, Picayune and New Orleans had to be cancelled on account of washout on the N. O. & N. E. south of Meridian, making it impossible for the G. C. and G. S. & T. to reach these points. We regret to learn that Bro. B. P. Shew- maker has been obliged to give up Moreland agency temporarily and go south on account of his health. We hope this trip will have Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 117 the desired effect and that Bert will soon return fully recovered. Following the name of each man on the new seniority list Issued Jan. 1st will be a star, showing whether he is a member of the Order or not, giving you accurate infor- mation as to the four-flushers on the Q. A C. who in the past have been "flagging” under the pretense of being ‘'card” men. Use the information in these lists by making a per- sonal effort to organize the nons. Don’t just make one effort and quit. (Nothing was ever gained by a quitter.) Keep “ on the job” until the desired results are obtained. One hundred per cent Division 62. If there is a “hard-boiled” non in the office with* you or at a station near you work on him regular time and overtime with persuasive methods first; then, with the motto of the order, “No cord, no favors ” This will in most cases bring it clear to his mind that he must Join. Cert, 6. 1. G. 8. K. R. — Chief Dispatcher C. S. McLarn, who has been sick for some weeks, has gone to Biloxi, Miss., to recuperate. Relieved by Night Chief C H. Buchanan, and he by Paul Rogens. Bro. G. W. Laurence, Birmingham “GS.” who has been seriously ill for some time, is greatly improved and wfll soon be able to return to work. General Chairman Hines, Local Chairman Pearce and Secretary Shadoan . attended the meeting Dec. 7th at Birmingham, and al- though the weather was very disagreeable, a good attendance was had and business of importance transacted. Cert. 974. Great Northern Ry., Dlv. 70. Cascade Division — It is with deepest regret I report the death 5f our worthy brother, W. A. McCray, agent White Rock, B. C.,^ on Nov. 23rd, from in- juries received in a motor car accident be- tween White Rock and Colebrook on that date. He is survived by a wife and three children. The remains were taken to Alpena, Mich., accompanied by Sister Mrs. McCray ind children. A beautiful floral wreath was placed upon the casket at St Paul by Bro. Olsen. The loss of our brother Is keenly felt by the membership of our division, who ex- tend their heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved relatives and friends. Also with regret I report the death of Mrs. Brien, wife of Bro. M. A. Brlen, on Nov. 29th, at Tumwater, after a short illness. The re- mains were taken to Salt Lake City for in- terment The entire membership of the di- vision extend their heartfelt sympathy to our bereaved brother. New members : Agents W. O. Dolsen, W. J- Davies, F. F. W. Brusewitz, J. E. Magner, C* M. Wiester and J. E. Oursler. Operators : Jack Johnson. A. F. Butler, M. A. Bri«i and L. H. Lancaster, Tumwater; J. W. Nostrand, Gay nor ; W. O. Ackers, cashr-opr Ky, and Alfred Hare, a new man brushing up at MN. With great pleasure we greet them as brothers and hope they will attend our regu- lar monthly meetings at Everett the second Sunday of every month. Come down, boys, and get acquainted with the brothers you have worked with for years. They are a jolly good bunch. ‘Bro. Englen furnishes the cigars for the boys and if the sisters will come I am sure he will furpish ice cream or candy. The nons are : Susie Walters, Embro { Essie F. Martin, Drury; Emma Dillon, Win- ton; James McClellan, Stanwood ; George E. Brown and Roy A. Moore, Everett. Only a very few, but they are keeping us from being 100 per cent. Help us to bring them in. Bro. Longfellow says we are going to cop the prize at the end of 1920 for the biggest increase and best organized division. He has done wonderful work in bringing this division up within sight of the 100 per cent. Let’s all help him over the top. JN now solid. Bro. Hewitt bumped Bro. Gill second to third WR and Bro. Gentry bumped NON Brown, third, to the extra list. Bro. Moe is being congratulated on the ar- rival of a new boy. Bro. Tilman, off sick, relieved by Bro. Bur- roughs, and Bro. Gentry relieved for few days by Bro. Griffith account of illness of Mrs. Gentry. Bro. Day has gone East. Relieved by Bro. Lockie. Bro. Baker relieved a few days by Sister Hollinshead. Bro. Manley is relieving Sister McCray. Sister May Moore, Berne, relieved for holi- days by Sister Roberts ; Sister Bertha Cerea by Bro. Devery; Sister Susie Martin, Tonga, by Bro. Anderson, and Sister Pitchow Drury by Sister Bradshaw. Bro. Pravitz has been appointed agent at New Westminster, B. 2. Some of the brothers in Frelay got some back time for wrong assignment of hours October, November and December, 1918. When you have any news send it to me without delay. Otherwise I am liable to overlook some important items. Let’s all pay our dues hereafter promptly and not cause our officers trouble and worry. Do not lose sight of the motto “No card, no favors ” “X,” Cert. 481. Montana Division, First District — Bro. Endfleld, displaced by Clemons at Homestead, displaced Bro. Peterson. Ante- lope, who relieved Bro. Anderson at Bowdoin a few days and then took Culbertson third. Bro. Rich to Wisconsin on business, re- lieved at Plentywood by Bro Storm. Some one get Agent Warden there. Letters do no good. Digitized by VjOOQle

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118 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Albers has gone to the Coast for 90 days or more, Newell relieving. Sister Richardson was off several days hav- ing dental work done. Bro. Adams' full-bred hens are not laying on account of the severe cold weather. Bro Pederson is apt to return with some one hanging on his arm. Bro. Mills, second Harlem, has gone to Davenport, la., to be married. Sister Conn, third Chinock, bumped by returned soldier, Wisness, sister to third Poplar. We have been very fortunate so far in not having any sickness. Our flower fund in this division remains the same — 115.00. Bro. Huntley, third Bowdoin, is being re- lieved by Kiel, Wolf Point S. J. Clabk, A. L. C. First District Notes — If the operators are being paid for handling train orders, then why are not the engineers and trainmen instructed to keep off the phones entirely. We can hardly call them “Brothers of Industry" but rather “Supporters of Capi- tal." Bro. Grote has returned from a three months’ trip to Iowa and the Coast Brothers with yard limit boards, when a train goes through your station in excess of the speed, make a note of it It will be valuable to you, especially if an accident should happen at your station and your super- intendent calls on you for the facts. Your position is as valuable to you as the other, man’s is to him. Only three or four nons left on the Mon* tana Division. First fifth and sixth districts solid. Let’s make the second, third and fourth the same way. Mondak depot was looted one night recent- ly and Bro. Cook lost a gun and some stamps. Understand the culprits have been captured and sentenced to penal servitude. Bister Mueller, while in Los Angeles re- cently took an aeroplane flight Engineer Straight recently handled one of the longest freight trains ever pulled west by a “J" engine. Ninety-one cars out of Willis- ton, and Superintendent Knight’s private car on the rear end. Main line business is at its zenith now. Handling an average of 30 trains a day east of Bainville. This brings our minds back to the old days when all an operator had to do was to copy orders and keep things moving. Capital has proclaimed that the Government cannot handle the railroads on a profitable basis. Just wait till this fiscal report comes in and see where capital gets off at. Bad orders out of a terminal are almost an un- known thing nowadays. Curt. 120. Havre Division — Our first year’s work since the Inaugura- tion of our schedule shows excellent results accomplished. I feel confident that our rec- ord cannot be surpassed and by the co-opera- tion the coming year of all the members we stand a good chance to get in the lead. Make yourself useful In the building up of this wonderful organization that is doing so much to better the conditions of our craft Last period we had 18 delinquents, vrhich is a very bad record and makes lots of work for me. Please do not let that happen again. There is no necessity of having to be traced several times to get you to pay your dues. Pay now. We have won every grievance on this di- vision from mistakes in seniority dates to direct violations of the schedule, involving claims from |6.00 to $400.00, and have not appealed a single case on this division this year. I have turned down some five or six cases that had no merit to them, and will do so as long as I am chairman. We have been in the rut for over fifteen years and must now make up for lost time in expending our energy along the lines of right and justice. I feel deeply indebted to those members who have given me kind words of encourage- ment and advice. I want every member to feel free to call on me at any time for any advice that I am capable of giving and I am ever ready to receive friendly criticism. If things do not go to suit you do not **back- bite” but come right out and tell me so. Be- ing human, we all make mistakes, and can never see them ourselves as others see them. Bro. Reddick, agent Fowler, who broke his ankle while unloading way freight, is Im- proving steadily and able to be on the job again on crutches. Brother Rich, displaced at Collins by Mr. Requim, a discharged soldier, displaced Bro. Baker at Laredo agency, who bid in Conrad first Sister Reip, on extra, was displaced by Mr. Pierce, & returned soldier, on third Shel- by. Requim and Pierce will soon be with us. * Sister Mitchell, Benton third, bid in second Pacific Junction. Sister Speak, second Chester, has gone to Nebraska to be married. Collins and Fowler, new positions, both good Jobs, up for bids. Let us all get busy and clean up the few nons on the division pronto. I will make a present of a solid gold O. R. T. button to every member who sends me an application secured by his or her efforts during the months of January, February and March, for every two applications will give you a watch charm, for three applications an O. R. T. emblem ring. Can furnish emblem pins for the sisters instead of buttons If wanted. Understand some people are going around trying to give the Order a black eye, work- ing especially on the new members. Pay no attention to them. They have a motive in Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 119 Arfng this, and the sooner you quit listening to them the sooner they will leave off. Pay your dues promptly, get after the none around you, and above all render good, hon- est faithful service to the company and we will climb to the very top of the ladder. With very best wishes for each individual member, I am, fraternally yours, W. Rat Walker, Local Chairman. Dakota Division — No write-up for some time account my being on vacation, seeing sights around Buffalo, N. Y.. and Ft. Worth, Texas, visit- ing relatives and friends. Bro. Carey, Orand Forks Relay, on thirty days' leave, spent Xmas with parents. Bro. Ralph Munson bid in Early Night Wire Chief Minot Extra Dispatcher Stewart, from Soo Line, Thief River Falls, is working in Grand Forks Relay. Second there on bulletin 1 p. m. to 9 p. m. Bro. Keck, Hoople, passed through Grand Fbrks recently on his way home for the holidays. Bro. Ford© is batching— “Wife’s gone to the country.” On short time to get in the “clear” before this issue closed. Promise something better next time. ‘Woodie,” Cert. 848. Breckenridge Division — A hardshell non wrote Bro. Olson re- cently requesting aid of the O. R. T. to get him back to work. When ^ job was open near his home he grabbed it and when it dosed would not do as others, work extra until his seniority entitled him to something iteady. His home station opened recently ind he was not permitted to work there until he ma.de new application for work and started as a new man. He had been cut off seniority list on account refusing to go where requested before. He. said, “You get me back to work and I’ll join your Union.” He got the Bame treatment as other nous get A card is like an insurance policy. Can never tell when you may need it. Bro. Olson was in Breckenridge recently transferring the record to our new local chairman, Bro. Sapp. The raise in express commissions, re- troactive to July 1st, should pay for many a card. The money paid in for dues pro- cured It Don’t let the non sit along side of you contentedly enjoying the things you paid for. Give him no rest until he lines up. New dues notices and insurance assess- ment notices have been mailed to every member. Remit at once. Brother Olsen is up against the same thing you are, when you have a bunch of freight on hand un- called for. You waste time and stamps noti- fying the consignee to get it — both can be used to good advantage elsewhere. He has lots of work to do each month. Help him by preventing it being necessary to notify you a second time. The two brothers in Casselton Tower who have been pumping for $5.00 each a month will have a Xmas present coming of $10.00 a month each, effective April 1st, when the schedule went into effect. A claim for the balance since that time has been made, also that the rate be increased to $10.00 a month each from now on. Who said that the O. R. T. isn’t getting results. Cebt. 812. Breckenridge Division Notes — Bro. Eberhart relieved C. L. Harrington, Ayr, on sick list two weeks. The recent snowstorm and high wind, accompanied by lightning and thunder, was a phenomenon! seldom witnessed in a life- time in this country. We understand that it was caused by Friend Mars and Jupitor dancing the Shimmey around the sun. The recent granting of a flat rate of ten per cent on express commissions on less than carload shipments is another example of what organized efforts will do. Pillsbury-Simcoe and Bremen have been made continuous offices on account of heavy business on Fargo Surrey Line. Bro. Eiden returning from leave of ab- sence, relieved by Bro. Spooner, went to Hannaford. Bro. McCoskey relieved Bro. Carmen at Hannaford Tower several days. Sister Haley has returned and is relieving at Hannaford. Bro. Enochson, Durbin, was recently obliged to take his wife to Whapeton Hos- pital. Mrs. Lason, wife of Bro. Loson, recently spent several days at Aneta. Bro. Lohman, Hamberg, on his honey- moon, relieved by Relief Agent Bro. Burns, and Bro. Haley, New Rockford, while get- ting married, relieved by Bro. Ahrens 10 days. Later by Sister Schmekel. Bro. Score, agent Sela, is being relieved by Bro. Bollum. It is now Bros. Tolliver, Galesburg, and Childs and Ballosk, Whapeton Tower, mak- ing the latter solid. Bro. Waller, agent Heimdal, relieved a few days by Bro. Iverson. Bro. Turner, Hunter, who recently injured his foot, is being relieved by P. T. Thomp- son, Just back from overseas service in the Army. Local Chairman Sapp has his appli- cation. Bro. VanDye, “KD” New Rockford, dis- placed by Bro. Strand recently returned from Army, went to Breckenridge Yard second. We all welcome the boys back from overseas. Digitized by ^.ooQle

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120 The Railroad Telegrapher. Sister Lee, Luverne, Is convalescing from an attack of pneumonia. Bro. Ludwig relieved Bro. Boll urn at Sela recently. Understand Bro. \ Ludwig and fam- ily have been sick. We hope nothing seri- ous. Sister Kurtz who relieved on third Breck- enridge Yard several days, then went to Pillsbury. Bro. Swanson, Northwood, relieved several days by helper to attend funeral of father- in-law near An eta. Bro. Collins relieved by Bro. Hanson while former and wife were in Fargo on company lawsuit. Bro. Hanson is taking, a line job, his health not permitting the handling of levers. Local Chairman feapp is fixing up for a humdinger dance. Date not yet been de- cided on. Let's all get back of. Bro. Sapp and help him In his efforts to make this division one hundred per cent. Bro. Ohman, "NI" Breckenridge, has pur- chased a new “Bug." Thanks to the brothers for news notes. Let's have more of 'em. Bro. Blair, in Breckenridge Yard in the good old days, now at Hilgard, Oregon, has been on “SP“ for some time, but lost out on the return of the soldier. He likes the country, but on account of his wife’s peo- ple living In this part of the country is de- sirous of locating on the Breckenridge Di- vision. Sister Arries is back at Simcoe after several months' visit to her home in Min- neapolis. A. E. Shaw, Cert 315. Fergus Division — Before making bids be sure that you are competent to fill the position, as your senior- ity will avail you nothing if proven incom- petent. Read Article 5 of the schedule and don’t bid on a position unless you want it. One case came to my attention recently where a position was bid on, which I do not believe the man was competent to fill, and he would have been the loser had the position been awarded to him. Fortunately, an older man bid it in, so no harm was done. I hope you will all become more optimistic as we go along. There is no room for pessi- mists in this or any other organization and the fewer we have, the more progress we make. A pessimist will say: “What’s the use?’’ and drop the matter while the opti- mist keeps on plugging. Were I a pessi- mist I would not be your local chairman for I would have thrown up the sponge long ago. I do not have any more time than the rest of you, yet I manage td give, on an average, two hours a day to the Union work. There have been times when I was willing to lay down the burden, but a letter of appreciation from some brother would chase the clouds away and the sun would shine again, if anything, brighter than before. May the time come soon, when you will all get In the game, laying aside all petty differences and work for the good of all. We are glad to welcome Sister Stromdale and Bro. Swanson, who returned to this division some time ago. Should have noted this before, but it was overlooked in the rush of business. A few .of you are doing good work or- ganizing, and if some of the others would try their hand, our success would be as- sured. You never know what you can do until you try, so “let’s go.’* One of the brothers is proving this by doing some mis- sionary work for the Plumb League among the people in his town and it is an example all could follow with a little effort on their part. “No card , no favors” has received an- other boost from which we can learn a lesson. A certain non-member tried to start the gasoline engine one cold day and could not get sc response of any kind, and had to give it up. I am not saying that the engine had anything in mind by refusing to go, but It does show that something was wrong. We know there was something wrong, but can we lay all the blame on the engine? Maybe it was a union engine and refused to work with a “Non." We welcome the following new members: No. 90, E. F. lux; No. 121, R. S. Gates; and No. 122, John Speaker, Jr. Our “serv- ice flag” is nearly filled with stars and the new list will show quite an improvement Those that do not give cannot expect to re- ceive, and their star is a dead one until touched by the light of Brotherly Love. O. P. Knedbl, L. C. Minn. & St. Louis R. R„ DIv. 71. Central & Western Division — Bro. Vaughen, third "DI,” off on account of sickness, was relieved by Bro. Madden and he at Waseca by Bro. Bolland, who later relieved Bro. Schroeder, agent Kilkenny, two weeks, Bro. Madden having previously relieved third Waseca 90 days. Bro. Dolan, Hopkins agency, is being re- lieved 90 days by Bro. Navratil, and he by Bro. Koerner on second, relieved by Bro. Christensen, a recent arrival. Bro. Rehman went to first Chaska during the sugar beet season. Carver station has been completed and will be open for business shortly. Bro. Rudolph resigned Otisco agency to go farming, succeeded by Bro. Muske. It is again Bro. E. J. Veigel, operator Humboldt. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 121 Transfers : Bro. C. D. Adams, Montgom- ery, from 96 ; Bro. R. E. Neilan, Spencer, and J. E. Wright, Gilmore City, from 116. Bro. E. A. Pasche, first Humboldt, to Ter- ril agency. R. H. Gleason, second Humboldt, promised to line up January 1st Den’t let him forget it. LaSalle, Minn., being made a telegraph of- fice puts Bro. Carlson on a 48 cents basis. The reduction in trains made some of the brothers pretty short hours, which we all felt when “the ghost walked in,” meeting the H. C. L. Bro. Marvel, second Gowrie, was off a few days accompanying his wife as far as St Louis on her trip to Indiana to visit her folks. Bro. Hansen, division agent from the Western Division, formerly agent at Win- throp and Grand Junction, was down on the third district of the Central Division recent- ly checking up the coal dealers on their sup- ply and shaking hands with some of his old pals. Some of the agents are allowing their help- ers to O. S. trains, send messages and attend to other business after their hours are up. Brothers, this means just the same as ihk- ing 76 cents out of your pocket as It is cutting down your overtime and calls. When you remit your dues don’t forget to include your 50 cents for the flower fund. If you have already remitted your dues, then mall Bro. Sandy the 60 cents for the fund. It means a whole lot when needed and none of us can tell when we may note and real- ise what the small sum we donated has done. It is the last tribute we can pay to our be- loved ones and there should not be a delin- quent on the list Brothers, be sure when you change your position and address to advise G. S. & T. Sandmler so that he may know at all times where to reach you. It means a great deal to keep him posted where you are and saves him a great deal of time in having to run you down. Just drop him a postal. Study the Cummins bill now before Con- gress, and you Iowa brothers remember this old bird when he comes up for re-election. There has been some talk lately of putting on a traveling chairman. Some of the larger roads have already done so. The trainmen recently put one on and found it a good move. It will cost each member $1.00 a month to carry this out. General Chairman Gardener being the par\y proposed tc^ fill the bill. It has been suggested that the members decide by ballot whether or not this move should be made, but before we do this we would like to know what the brothers think about it Upon receipt of The Telegrapher with this article, I ask that each member mail bis or her views on this matter to their local chairman, Bro. Sandy or myself, so we may lmow whether or not to put it up to the vote of the members. A postal card will answer, Just stating whether or not you wish to have one installed. Your opinions will all be held confidential. Boys, don’t rest until we land the few nons left The more members we get the more it adds to our interest A little more pep and remember, our slogan, “No card , no favors” Thanks fpr the news sent in this month. All of you drop me a few lines and don't let just one or two do it all. S. J. Boyle, Cert 451, Paton, Iowa. Eastern Division — Bro. A, R. Nelson, first and ticket agent Mason City, has gone with the C. B. & Q. Bro. H. C. Cahill Is back on second Hamp- ton after 60 days’ absence. It is now Bros. Mallory and O Neil and the Algona branch is solid O. R. T. again, only one non left, and he is on the Newton branen. We hope the brothers there won’t allow him to sleep night or day until he lines up. Bro. T. W. Guggerty is back on third Oskaloosa after 90 days working as extra dispatcher at Watertown. Bro. Tim Landfear, who has been reliev- ing Bro. Guggerty on third at "SK.” is now on. a trip to Cedar Rapids and Chicago. The depot at Lacey burned down recently. It’s rather cool doing business in a box car with the thermometer down to 15 or 20 be- low. Lacey Is now an open telegraph office, and was put on bulletin. Bro. McCuIland bid in the agency there, and Bro. Doddson, second Monvars, leaving Laurel and Ealenor respectively on bulletin. Little York recently made an open tele- graph office with Sister Mary Blair on second. We regret to chronicle the death of Bro. W. R. Vance, Monmouth Yard. He will be greatly missed by his friends and associates. Decision has been rendered on Interpre- tation 8 to Supplement 13 and superin- tendents instructed by our general superin- tendent to tabulate it immediately at the different offices which were working Sun- day assigned hours January 1st, 1918. We expect our general chairman will Issue more definite information on this subject In the near future. General Chairman Gardner had the mis- fortune rocently to have the end of his mid- dle finger on the left hand cut off. and is obliged to handle his typewriter with one hand, which is very inconvenient. Bro. Landfear, Wright, is visiting in the East, relieved by Bro. Mahoney. Bro. Hassman, Seaton, relieved several weeks by Mr. Jones. Bro. Red Davis is back on Middle Grove after being on the sick list some time. Digitized by Googk

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122 The Railroad Telegrapher. Helper Eddy Bray from Ackley visited home folks at Richland several weeks. Some of our old heads are on the delin- quent list and will have to be dropped if they do not pay up at once, and “Sandy” hates to drop a brother. Brothers, let’s all take a retrospective glance over the past year and see the many good things the Order has brought us, and resolve that we will never again- be without a card while we are in the telegraph servloe. A non told me recently that he would not line up again because we are not doing any- thing. Wonder how that $83.19 looks to him compared with what was tacked on to Supplement 13 he is now drawing? I hope you all had a “Merry Christmas,” and wish you a happy and prosperous New Year. One of the best wayd to obtain hap- piness is by doing right and being consistent with ourselves and our fellow man. If we apply that rule we must help to support our Order. W. C. McLin, L. C. Southern Pacific Ry., Atlantic Dlv. 72. Louisiana Lines — Bro. Long is working as extra dispatcher during the busy season. Help him out all you can. He is a fine fellow and a worthy member. Bro. Boutte is also working as an extra dispatcher, Bachman from the W. U. relieving In Lafayette relay. One of our oldest operators on the Louis- iana Lines, Bro. Chapman, about 60, died recently. He had been in the service since the early part of the nineties and died carry- ing an O. R. T. card. Mrs. Hogg came back on her old Job and relieved me during my wife's illness, but on account of her eyes had to give it up again. I am back on fourth Lafayette, so I can go hunting now. If there are any ducks around your vicinity let me know. Understand several members have so far forgotten the obligation they took when they joined the Order and are teaching telegra- phy. Brothers, there is only one thing to do in such cases, after being requested to , desist, and that is, prefer charges against them. The co-operative store, which is truly a railroad man's store, was opened for busi- ness Jan. 1st. If you have any stock in It you can now get all you desire there. We are sorry to hear of the death of the father of Bro. Harper. Cheneyville, Mr. Boudreau relieving him during his absence. The towermen are now incorporated in our contract and Local Chairman Frair, Lake Charles, reports they have all lined up. Our friend Lineman Bro. Compton, who has been a bachelor for forty years, was recently married to Mrs. Clark of New Ibe- ria, wife of late Engineer Clark, who died about two years ago. Bro. Compton and bride are spending their three months* honey- moon in Texas. Q. J. Fanout, Cert. 616. Chicago and Northwestern R. R.y Dlv. 76. Madison Division — It is with a feeling of deep regret and sorrow that we report the sad news of the death of Bro. C. M. Shane, agent Grand Marsh, at Lacrosse, Nov. 27 th, following a lingering illness. His loss is keenly felt by the members of our division, who extend their heartfelt and fraternal sympathy to the bereaved relatives and friends. A floral offering was Bent as a memento of affec- tionate regard from the O. R. T. members of the Madison Division. Bro. V. E. Motschenbacher is relieving Bro. N. P. Skundberg, Oxford second. Bro. R. C. Yahnke relieved on Adams Sldewire by A. Krongberg while taking dis- patcher’s examination at Chicago. Bro. W. R. Irwin, Elrom second, relieved several weeks by Sister Louise R- Volth who later relieved Chas. Kramer. South Beaver Dam Beosnd, a few days, Bro. W. H. Han- sen, Agent Oxford, on account of sickness in his family, and Bro. L. M. Betthulser, Tun- nel City second, several days. Local Chairman Jenks, attending meet- ings at Madison and Milwaukee, relieved on Dalton second by Bro. Garrigan. reports an interesting session at the former place. Gen- eral Chairman Thomas explaining the method used In determining the revised wage rate. He assured us that our back pay will soon be forthcoming. Owing to the curtailed train service the attendance was small, but the Joint meeting at Milwaukee. Sunday, Dec. 14th, was largely attended. General Secretary and Treasurer Boylngton in charge. Frank Wright, car distributor Baraboo. has been promoted to dispatcher on the Southern Illinois Division at Pekin, 111. Bro. C. J. Calhoun, visiting home folks Christmas, relieved on Cl y man Junction second by Bro. E. L. Stout. Wish some of you brothers on the Old Line would furnish me with what news items you can in order to have a more com- plete write-up each month. Cert. 917, Friesland, Wis. Ashland Division — Bro. W. J. Schllleman, third Bessemer closed, now on. extra list, went to Sioux Falls, S. D., for Christmas. Alger second closed, Bro. G. A. Gillen relieved Bro. H. B. Thieme at Watersmeet ; Kimball first also closed, and Bro. L. H. Girdner bumped Bro. L. C. Asraundson from second Saxon. The unlucky ones are extras now. Bro. J. D. Van Batenburg relieved Bro. R. S. Myers at Rhinelander a week on ac- count of sickness in the family. Digitized by Google

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The Rajlroad Telegrapher. 123 Bra M. Morlority, third Mercer, went to Antlgo recently owing to the serious illness of his sister, Mrs. J. Hayes, who was not expected to live, but we hope for the best. Bro. Albrecht, who took his annual trip recently to Chicago, has not been heard from since. Bro. J. E. Honzik, second Wakefield, has bought a set of Harvard Classics and in- tends to make better use of his mornings after New Years. Bro. H. C. Olson, third Woodruff, is tak- ing a course in ragtime piano lessons. We better make our next meeting there and have him entertain us. Bra C. H. Krelser, extra, went to third Pelican for a week or two. Bro. O. A Reinke, agent Aniwa, relieved for Xmas by Bro. John Van Boxtel, and he on first there by Bro. F. Korbish. Bra H. Cheeseman bumped from Witten- burg second by Swanson. Bros. Kuehlman, third, and Carmany should line him up now m he has never worked where there was a strong anti-non feeling. Go to it, boys! Bra Johnson was bumped by Bro. Lintel- man from Becond Marion. Bros. J. N. Bacon and A. Franze are working in Antlgo, latter on third. No chance for operators here now, all filled to the core and a few extra to spare. All trains are showing poor speed owing to the snow and extreme cold. Every one should try and send a few items to Bro. H. LaFave at first Antlgo, of Local Chairman Bro. J. H. McDonough, who is very glad to write them up. From now on we will try and line every one up on this division and see that every one is paid up, as Bro. Boyington has sent assessment Blips out already, and we are all for a 100 per cent division. “AS,” Cert 1535. Wisconsin Division — Brothers, do not forget the joint meetings in Milwaukee, Wis., at the Juneau Hotel the aseond Sunday of each month, 11 a. m. and T p. m. All are Invited and requested to attend. We have some very interesting meetings and matters of importance are dis- eased. If you want to know what is going on regarding the actions of your committees, chairmen and secretary, come out and get an ear full. We had & real good attendance at the Dec. 14th meeting when how to figure our back pay and future rate was explained. Everyone present knows now how much he baa coming. Bro. Boyington has prepared a circular letter explaining in detail how to figure our time according to the raise. Write bim for one.v You brothers are not furnishing me all the news you hear. Put it in an envelope and send it to me at Wiscona Tewer. I have to send in a write-up every month, so beep this news coming regularly. Brothers keep after the few nons around you and use every means proper to show them the light “United we stand and divided we fall.” Some of them never had a card, others are delinquent and some working extra say they will join when they get on regular. The following is the Wis- consin list : F. W. Sheckler, Berryville ; E, P. Haskln, Shoreline, and W. L. Michael is, Washington Street Tower, Milwaukee; Illi- nois list : T. F. Nolan, Woodstock ; J. O’Connor, Harvard ; C. A Ablesman, Pop- lar Grove ; J. Maurer, Bain ; A H. Gleason, Hunting Avenue; C. E. Smith, Greenwood Boulevard, Evanston ; W, H. Brockaway, Palatine; J. R. Nigh, Hartl&nd, and J. Eas- terday, extra “GO” Chicago. Bro. G. D. Anderson, second Skokie, off several days with lumbago, relieved by Bro. Mansnerus. Bro. H. L. Speerschneider, agent ' Des Plaines, on ten days* trip East, relieved by Bro. C. J. Dalmadge. Bro. F. J. Choir, in the Navy over two years, returned to first Lake Forest, 111., after working several days, had to be re- lieved while he had his tonsils removed. Bro. Strand, Highland Park, spent a week visiting with home folks in Michigan, re- lieved by “Non” Easterday. Bro. Nelson is back at Lake Forest after being off some time with a sprained knee. Bro. Dixon, “MO” Milwaukee, pensioned owing to his age and illness, was succeeded by Bro. Dempsey. Bro. G. N. Harbert relieved at Washing- ton Street Tower first by W. L. Michaelis, returned to Wiscona. Bro. Pollard, Racine, now has a ticket clerk until 9 p. m. Bro. George Avery, one of the lucky ones, has returned from the big game country, relieved several days by Bro. L. G. Enders, who later took third Tower “SW.” Bro. Christ Mltteness sick, relieved by Bro. G. H. Shavel, who later went to Jack- son. I wish to thank all the boys who sent me news for this and other write-ups. J. O. Ricks, Cert. No. 658. Peninsula Division— r C. D. Ferair promised to line up first of the year. Someone near him Jog up his memory after New Years Day. Also keep after the few other nons and see that they start the New Year by carrying a card. Every brother should pay his dues as soon as he gets his notice from Bro. C. B. Raw- lins and Bro. R. B. Boyington. Bro. E. J. Seymour, second Narinta, is now living In his bungalow there, built by Bro. W. R. Damitz during his spare time, and they are neighbors now. Bro. McMartin, relieved by Bro. Seymour on first passenger station Eseanoba while Digitized by Google

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]24 '['he Railroad Telegrapher. off a few days trying to get a deer, relieved by Bro. Banquette extra on second. Bro. J. H. Davis, third Escanoba passen- ger station, on committee work in Chicago for the B. of R. R. a few days, relieved by Bro, Rassmussen, extra, who later relieved Bro. Roland, agent Carney, off for his health buying up Christmas trees and ship- ping them to Chicago. Swanzy agency closed, putting Bro. L. A. Larson out of a job. All the summer jobs on the West End have closed, putting many of the brothers out of jobs. Bro. Nelson was off several days while his wife was undergoing an operation at St Francis Hospital, closing Indian Town sec- ond during his absence. Later the trick closed for the winter and Bro. kelson re- tiring to “his farm. We all hope for Mrs. Nelson’s speedy recovery. Bro. W. E. Erickson, on side wire Esca- noba dispatcher’s office, while relieving some of the dispatchers, was relieved by Bro. H. Eklund, second Vulcan. Bro. J. E. Ranger and family spent Sun- day recently visiting relatives in Iron Moun- tain. At Tesch Tower a number of times when the operator has been needed to line up the tracks on Sunday, instead of calling him the section foreman was called to handle the levers. This Is a violation of Section 9, Article 5, of the Rules. When this occurs, brothers, see to it that you get pay for the call and all hours worked. Turn in your slip for this kind of work. You are entitled to it. Wishing you all a happy New Year, J. E. Ranger, DIv. Cor., Cert. 606. Hooker and Bro. J. T. Lane. Bro. R. E. Massengill visited at Monroe recently. Bro. Roeder relieved Carey on Balaton, Minn., third. Since Bro. Massengill has been promoted to dispatcher there is not a member work- ing Huron side wire. Their sickly excuse is the O. R. T. never helped them. Bro. L. D. Feathers attended court at Sioux Falls, S. D., recently. Bro. Stites, second Brookings, has re- turned irom Vert with a bride. Bro. R. A. Pfefferle has received the sad tidings of the death of a sister, making seven deaths in his family the past year. Sister Foster relieved Hickey at Salem. He is now baggage master there. Bro. J. M. Bies, Zell, S. D., , visited his home at Salem recently. Sister Champ, Sioux Valley Junction,, was relieved by Sister Schultz of Brookings a few days on account of illness. No news items received from the mem- bers appointed at the last meeting at Red- field. Certs. 1565 and 1924. Dakota Division — Correction — The second paragraph, of this division's write-up in November journal reads : "E. L. Foster, second Salem, resigned Frankfort agency, etc.” Bro. E. L. Foster, Cert 2526, Division 76, now working in the Rock Island, Carrie, Avenue Yard office, waiter Local Chairman Champ that he was discharged June 9th, his application going forward some time in June, about the time he re- sumed work, and that he has been up-to- ,date ever since. Local Chairman Champ requests that this correction be made. The Editor. Dakota Division — From a financial standpoint we are in better condition now than at any time dur- ing the life of our Order. The year 1919 was a successful one for the railroad oper- ators In this country and it behooves us all to work still harder this year for a solid or- ganization, the only sure means of success. When we compare the salaries of today with those paid a few years ago we can then realize what the O. R. T. means to us. There are a lot of conditions to be bettered, which can only be done through co-operation. We welcome as new members Bros. Val- entine, Roeder, Henderson, Bruflat, Daley and Sister Pratcher. In the November Journal, referring to the return of the boys from overseas, we failed to use the prefix of “Bro.” in noting that Bro. Neil Andrews was back on third Oaks. He is a member In good standing and car- ried a card for more than two years in the Army. Recent Huron visitors were Sister H. Gra- ham. Bro. R. A. ' Pfefferle, Bro. Cooley of Denver & Salt Lake R. R., Div. 79. First District — Bro. Leonard, “DN” Denver, is now dis- patching for the Denver & Rio Grande. Bro. Blackford is at Plainview, Bro. Ran- dall at Rallinsville, and Bro. Wessell at Fraser. Talland is solid, Bro. Woodworth, agent and first ; Bro. Graham, second, and Bro. McGann, Division 49, on third pending bul- letin. Corona solid, Bro. Crawford, first; Bro. Norris, second, and Bro. Clock, third. Lat- ter sick for two months, in St Luke’s Hos- pital, Denver, three weeks, relieved by Operator Chambers. Bro. Norris was off two weeks during the holidays. Arroon solid, Bro. Maddox, agent and first; Bro. Maben, second, and Bro. Kinney, third trick. Bro. Fipps, agent, and Bro. Fey. first Tabernash. Unable to say If men on second and third tricks are brothers or not. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 125 Granby solid, Bro. C. L. Lomax, agent and first; Bro. C. J. Lomax, second, and Sister Sayers, third. Bro. Nelson at Sulphur Springs has been In the service of this company since Nov. 3rd, 1905. The top of the world now has steam heat and electric lights. Thanks to Bros. C. J. Lomax, Maddox, Norris and Woodworth for notes. Cert. 22. Texas & Pacific Ry., Div. 88. Joint Track , Fort Worth Division — - Bro. Weems, second East Yard Fort Worth, off two days Thanksgiving, relieved by Dispatcher Watkins. Mrs. Bock, third trick St. L.-S. W. Cross- ing, off one week, relieved by Bro. Herndon from Southern Pacific. Bra J. P. Wingo, Whitesboro, relieved by Bro. Hearn ; Bro. J. W. McCoy, Denton third, by Bro. Herndon a few days looking over West End, and Bro. J. S. Wilson, Aubrey, one day by R E Shouse, looking over West End. Bro. J. B. Walthall, second trick Mingo, sick three days, relieved by Sam Brown. Bro. V. C. Pearce, agent Collinsville, back after sixty days’ leave, Bro. Grogard, first there, relieving. Yours truly has taken advantage of the permission to trade jobs during Christmas holidays, going to Pilot Point first, and Bro. Bates to Wiles agency. Sister Clemmons, late of Collinsville sec- ond trick, and Jas. Parkensen, fireman on thfe Union Pacific out of Salt Lake City, Utah, who will be remembered as the "aviator from Camp Taliferro," were mar- ried Dec. 5th, and will make their home in Elko, Nev. Considerable interest is being shown in the coming election of local chairman for the joint Track and T. C. Division, several candidates having been nominated. R. L. Denton, Cert. 532. West End, Fort Worth Division — Bro. W. J. Lewis dispatching on Ft. W. 4 D. C. Ry., in Wichita Falls, Bro. Sullivan relieving him on third West Yard, Fort Worth. Yours truly off ten days visiting Joint Track, Mrs. Sorensen on Tremble third. Sister O’Reilly off a week on account of sick- ness, Bro. McIntosh on first Tremble few days. Sister Bryant resigned. Sister Morrison working Aledo third. Bro. Dellinger, Ranger Yard third, on Gordon agency pending assignment Bro. Morrison on Mingus third extra. N’o notes this month from Ranger district. R. L. Denton, Cert. 532. Rio Grande Division — Bro. D. C. Hamilton, first Sweetwater, confined to his bed with rheumatism, is slowly improving. Bro. Jones, who was off on grievance work recently, is relieving him, relieved on second by Bro. E. C. Barnes from the S. P. Bro. N. H. Cush is back on third there. Bro. Neidemeir was unable to get a house after he had bid in third Big Spring owing to the recent “oil boom” there and was ob- liged to bid back on second Van Horn. Bro. C. Tatom, second Midland, worked at a derailment near Monahans recently. Keep an “up-to-date.” We are now 100 per cent, with the exception of a few who will no doubt pay up as soon as their at- tention is called to having overlooked it Bro. L. B. Pitzer w'ent to Kent second and L. Wills relieved me when I bid in third Monahans. I have been appointed correspondent for this division. Please send your notes to me promptly. J. B. Jarrell, Cert 797, Monahans, Tex. Chicago Gt. Western Ry., Div. 96. Western Division — We should all pay our dues promptly. And I want to urge everyone to take out a yearly instead of the semi-annual card. It not only lessens the work of the secretary, but the work of the St Louis office as well, saves that much more for our organization, and shows a much more solid membership, of longer time, which is absolutely neces- sary to assure your committee of getting results when going in after better conditions and pay. Our committee has been in Washington some time trying to get a hearing upon cer- tain questions very important to us. To show this committee and the men they have to deal with at Washington that we stand firmly behind it, let us all take out annuaj cards. We have postponed our regular meeting so that our general chairman might be with us, and get the results of the negotiations at Washington direct from him. I hope that each member has asked the representative and senator from their dis- trict to support “The two-year extension government control bill,” as requested by our president, Bro. E. J. Manion. Bro. L. J. Dukate’s wife of Harlan has Just returned from eleven weeks* visit with relatives in Indiana, Bro. Dukate returning with her, having gone there several weeks ago to visit and assist her in getting home. Our brother agent at Bolan can well be thankful that other station duties called him from the vicinity of the office recently when No. 16 hit a few box cars, on the main line in front of depot, putting one on end in the office, and displacing the depot Itself Digitized by Google

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12G The Kailroad Telegrapher. from the foundation. Although a few peo- ple were inside, none were reported hurt. From the numerous wrecks on our rail- road, some people have acquired the habit of calling it the ‘‘Chicago Great Wrecky Railroad.” Several of our trains recently got stuck in the snow, giving some of our boys real work getting them out and started. Everyone watch for notice of next meet- ing, and if possible be on hand. After hav- ing enjoyed & Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, we should all be able to do this, and we hope everyone has enjoyed the same. G. R. Hoisington, A. L. C., Cert 169. Northern Division— Bros. A. Lagervall and Hall still doing relief work on the division. Sargeant has been made a train order of- fice with Bro. Anderson in charge and Devon will soon be listed likewise. Racine is now a telegraph office with Bra Perry in charge. Bro. Whitley, Minneapolis days, is off sick. Bro. Overby, agent Skyburg, was off dur- ing the holidays. Business good and all forces working at top speed, still It is hard to keep the termi- nals and outlying yard from becoming con- gested. It is time to pay dues again. Let all who can remit for the entire year. This will cut down the work of our general secretary and treasurer, who has all he can do. We are growing so fast that it is hard to keep up. If unable to do this, pay the first half with- out being traced for payment several times by Jetter. We have about the same names on the delinquent list each term. Let’s see if we cannot get by this term without a sin- gle one appearing on the delinquent list. Would, suggest to brothers at one-man stations to make a clear and understandable copy of their place of residence and leave it in bill box or some conspicuous place where it can be found by trainmen. Might be well to call attention of the trainmen where you can be found If wanted. If all concerned will do this it may add to your salary in the shape of overtime. Let no one of us be discouraged by the happenings down at Washington in regard to our wage scale. Stay by the ship and give your assistance and everything will come out as we all hope to see it. Local Chairman, Cert. 39. Duluth, So. Shore & A. Ry., Dlv. 116. Bro. Benning, Sanborn, relieved a few days during the hunting season by Mr. Hembling. Bro. Zradley handled the rod men days during the rush season and talked Mr. Dea- sey, his relief at Kenton nights, into taking a set of application blanks, which he prom- ised to fill out as soon as he got his first pay. Bro. Roy Loomis, at Ewen, was off few days on account of sickness. ■ Br6. Stuesser at Ewin has kept after John Anderson to take out a card and has now promised to do so after the first of the year. Bro. Peterson, Nestoria, who spent a day with his folks at Bergland recently, claims he shot one of the largest bucks ever killed there. Bro. Poppe, who followed him through the woods, came in with a small fawn. Bill says he saw a large one but it was too far off for him to get a good shot at it. Bro. Warne, Paynesville, visited at Mar- quette over Sunday and got “the dope” on the new express work. He says it’s a stick- ler, but he will figure it out if anyone can. Bro. R. J. Peterson, operator, and Bra H. D. Peterson, clerk, of Nestoria, spent Sunday in Baraga recently with their fiancees. Bro. A. L. Adams, on first Nestoria sev- eral years ago, is now a doctor of chiro- practic in Wisconsin, having recently fin- ished a postgraduate course in the Chicago College and qualified as a specialist. We wish him success. Bro. R. E. Neilan, second Superior, has taken an agency on the M & St. L. We wish him success. Bro. J. W. Ezell makes one of the best stylus you ever used, all hand made and easily worth more than the dollar he charges for them. Send for one. Bro. Poppe had a letter from him Nov. 11th and he advises that things look bright for a pardon, but it costs money to get a good lawyer, so every dollar we send him for a stylus means that he is that much nearer to freedom. Bra Casey spent Sunday in Ironwood re- cently. Don't forget that Bro. A. W. Anderson, agent Thomaston, is selling clothes. Bro. C. W. Danielson, off a week recently, relieved by the relief agent. Bro. Lew Dravel, Houghton, is getting to be some speed merchant on his bug. In about a month he will open up with the ani- mal and have 'era all under the table. Bro. T. J. Glenny, Lower Yard Marquette, spent several days recently with relatives in Superior, Mr. Deasy relieving. Bro. Poppe, Nestoria, attended the turkey supper in Marquette given by the Benefit Association of Railway Employes, Dec. 11th. Thank you, Bros. Poppe and Wubbena, for the items. I wish you all a very prosperous and a happy New Year; and remember, “No card, no favors ” N. H. Lake Ewe & Western R. R., Dlv. 120. General Chairman Morrow, first Belt Junction, who has shown some good results in obtaining the back pay for the brothers in Indianapolis general office, contemplates Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Tej^egrapher. 127 visiting the entire L. E. & W. division short- ly and get acquainted with the members. We have also been promised a visit by First Vice President Brown in the near future. Let us get together at some central point and have as many members present as pos- sible, for there are numerous subjects that should be discussed for the betterment or the organization. The schedule clause should be revised and many other conditions changed. We are now enjoying the best membership in our history and should be our endeavor to keep it so. The brothers working with the few re- maining nons should remind them the mistake they are making by not joining and help us to obtain still better results for the vocation they are following. Let none of us become delinquent but be prompt in paying up our dues. The trainmen that are heard at every ’phone on the line as soon as they stop are the same fellows that raise the biggest kick whenever their rights to service in the terminals are interfered with. They want pay for every step they have to make, but when it comes to getting near a 'phone they forget the operator's pay. If they had insisted as hard to receive pay for 'phone calls as they have for other minor duties, they would have been paid for this service long ago. If operators were used as flagmen we would never hear the end of the complaint Brothers, remember the eight-hour day means to work that time and no more, and whenever you are kept after the limited time, no matter for what purpose. Insist that you get pay. Some notes would be appreciated and make a more interesting write-up. Cert. 73. Lehigh Valley R. R.f Div. 124. Buffalo Division — We held Joint meetings at Rochester, Dec. 5th, and at Buffalo, Dec. 17th, fifteen mem- bers attending the former, but there were tas than this number at all three of the Buffalo meetings. Our general chairman and Bro. Cowley of the N. Plate were there with the latest. The club proposition was laid over till the next meeting. Although it was a very cold day, several came 45 and 55 miles, while others in Buf- falo and nearer did not stir from their fire- side. Get on your flannels, boys, and “for the love of Mike” get that idea of “George doing W* out of your heads. Your name is George from now on. Cert. 203. Wyoming Division — Bra 8calley, at Tannery, off sick a few days, was relieved by Bro. Loftus, who also relieved Bro. Leo McHale at Mt. Top. Bro. T. A. Higgins, one of the most successful hunters there, figures taking a trip to Maine for larger game if he can get his dog trained to hunt the species he desires. A joint meeting of the P. R. R., L. V, R., C. R. R. of N. J., and D. & H. Co. boys was held in Wilkes-Barre November 25th. It weis one of the largest and most interesting O. R. T. gatherings ever held in that city, and all enjoyed every minute while there. Local Chairman Hartman called the meet- ing to order, and after a brief talk intro- duced General Chairman Leh, who delivered a very interesting address. He was followed by General Chairman Pry of the C. R. R. of N. J„ who should have been heard by every O. R. T. brother. Local Chairman Nuckles of the P. R. R. then explained the work of the Order on the road. All roads represented reported great progress. We regret that there was not a lineman present at this meeting, as everything per- taining to them was explained, as well as the other classes represented. * The Plumb Plan was able discussed and all members present not already sdfiliated with it filed their application for member- ship, which includes “Labor,” published In Washington, D. C., one of the best papers on the market. All members not present at this meeting should make application for membership In the Plumb Plan League at once. It was decided to hold Joint meetings hereafter In this locality. All interested will be notified in due time when each one will be held. Bro. Hartman, second Coxton, was re- lieved one day by Bro. B. A. Gerrity. “Hump up" a little, boys, and assist us in having a write-up each month. Do not leave it all for one man to look after. There are a few nons still sticking around who are not very desirable to work with. Let each member make it a point to show them up by “No card, no favors J* Pay your dues promptly. Cert. 668. C. R. I A P. Ry., Div. 126. General Offices, Topeka — Our new office has been completed and looks fine. Some of us claim, however, that the selectors are on the wrong end of the wires. At the regular meeting of the Topeka O. R. T. Club in December the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: President, Bro. Sirois ; vice-president, Bro. Stover; secretary, Bro. Merritt; treasurer, Bro, Claybourn. A good attendance was present and a big meeting, with something on the side, was planned for January. I see where the more or less accurate State Journal says the coal strike cost the people something like a hundred and twenty- seven million dollars. We have some cabl- Digitized by Google

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128 The Railroad Telegrapher. net members that can make that look like a game of penny ante. The dope from El Reno shows Bro. Phelps the daddy of a fine big boy ; Bro. Spurr lay- ing off on account of sickness ; Bro. Moore called to Horton on account of the illness of his wife ; Bro. Harrison on a honeymoon back In Illinois ; Bro. Milan visiting down in Alabama ; Sister Guiles on vacation ; Bro. Murray getting wanderlust and bidding on distant stations ; Bro. Walden hAs been ad- mitted to college at Tucson through the Board of Vocational Training; Bro. Good- fellow is doing extra dispatching at Ama- rillo, and Bro. Peck has a new Nash with wire wheels, monogram ’neverything. Well, another year is with us. Have you paid your dues for the first half of 1920? If not, better do so at once, then give yourself a mental frisk, and ask yourself, “What have I done to help my organization the past year?" Some of you will be sur- prised to learn that you’ve done nothing but pay your dues, and some had to be begged for them. Good resolution time is with us right now. Let’s resolve to get in the game for 1920 and crowd that 100 per cent clear off the map. We can do it if all will help. Senator Capper, of Kansas, in a speech before the Senate recently, sa’id in part : “The profiteers, and this Includes a lot of coal operators, are as great, or a greater menace to us and our institutions than the Bolshevik!, the I. W. W.’s and the radicals whp are preaching the overthrow of gov- ernment. If we, a peaceful nation, can send four million of the best soldiers the world have ever seen to Europfe in one year and raise twenty-five billion dollars in half as many months to carry on a war, we can settle the profiteering evil.” There is quite a difference between our Senator and our strike breaking Governor. Last report from Bro. Kay says that ap- plication of Interpretation No. 8 being de- layed by regional directors. It will prob- ably be in operation by the time you read this. From what we can gather at this time the application of this interpretation Is going to put our differentials sadly askew, some will get a nice increase and some will not get so much, and possibly there will be a few or us that get nothing out of it, but it cannot be helped. Let us be thankful for what it does give us, and if anyone springs that old gag about the government giving it to us, you can advise him that the O. R. T. made them give it to us and had to fight like Sam Hill after we got it to have it applied. R. D. Stover, Local Chairman. Kansas Division — The first of 1920 found us in good shape on this division with nearly a 100 per cent membership and we are still after the few I nons and delinquents. j We did not have a write-up in the Novem- « ber issue as no items were received. All | try and help out so we can have a good one j each month. j Sorry to hear that Bro. Lewis is out of • the service and hope he can get his matter straightened up and soon be back with us again as “Dick” is a fine boy. We have been experiencing some real zero winter weather with strong north winds, nothing unusual, however, for Kansas. Interpretation No. 8, which has been granted us, will benefit a lot of the men. Each man who has worked a Sunday as- signment should figure up his back pay, which will date back to Oct 1st, 1918. If you do not get the amount as you figure it out make a grievance of it but remember this only includes men who had Sunday as- signments prior to the application of Gov- ernment Order 27. This should have been given us when Supplement 13 wTas made effective, but the company could not see it as we did, therefore it had to be referred to Washington. This will make your hourly rate on an average between six and eight cents more. Bro. Kay was called to Washington Nov. 4th on the increase and better working con- ditions that were drawn up at St. Louis in September. This will mean more money and better working conditions. Bro. T. A. Thompson, second Manhattan, has resigned to enter business for himself. We all wish him success and are sorry to lose him. We are glad to see Bro. Keplinger, agent Clyde, back after nine months off with the “flu,” and hope he will soon be strong enough to assume his duties. Brothers, let us remit our dues promptly to Bro. Dunnam, and all who can take out a yearly instead of a six months’ card, then we will not have to pay attention to our dues, or becoming delinquent, during 1920. I hope you all had a “Merry Christmas” and a “Happy New Tear.” M. W. Shaw, Local Chairman. Iowa Division — I hope everyone who possibly can will take out yearly cards. Send Bro. Dunnam $14 and have it off your mind for a full year. I do not think any of you on this divi- sion are short-sighted enough to drop out of the organization because you may not get all you are expecting. It is the weak-kneed member who is always trying to find an ex- cuse for such action and finding fault in- stead of the one who does the best he can to strengthen the organization and makes the best of the best that can be done to help make the O. R. T. worth while. Digitized by tjOOQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 129 It would be Interesting to see what effect tt would have if justice was metered out to the mine owners, who kept the miners out of the mines last summer so as to create an artificial shortage of coal, instead of in- justice to the men who risk their lives down in the bowels of the earth digging the coal for a bare living. Bro. A. Mosher, an old-timer, for many years on first Valley Junction Yard, has quit telegraphing and taken the job of switch tender at M. & St L. Junction. His arm gave out, and having a good , farm near town he preferred taking this job to bidding in a light telegraph position elsewhere. We all miss hearing “MO” on the wire. Bro. Ramback succeeds “Mose,,? and now it's "Rammy's” clean cut “OK R BR.” Bro. Chrlstison to Iowa City No. 2, vice Bro. Rittmeyer to extra list Bros. Lawhorn and Redmond, Colfax, were relieved a few days by Bro. Walls. Bro. Chrlstison relieved Bro. Jost Grin- nell. several days owing to the death of his father-in-law. Bro. Putnam, “CO” BlufTs, was relieved a short time by Bro. Balsbaugh, transferred from Div. 23 recently with an up-to-date card. Bro. R. H. Thompson, rate clerk on outbound in Des Moines freight office, while nothing doing on extra list went to Valley Junction Yard second pending bulletin. Bro Peasley, agent Shelby, was relieved two days by Bro. Stanley. Hope you all complied with Bro. Manion’s request to write or wire your Congressmen and Senators as to proposed legislation. If those gentlemen hear from home in regard to these matters they will give them more than indifferent thought I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year. Don't forget to pay your dues. H. N. Dutton, Local Chairman. Des lfoines Valley Division — Bro. Brake relieved Sister Chandler, Win- terset, who went to Pella extra. Bro. Wood of Patterson was a recent Winterset visitor. Bro. Robbins, agent Winterset, Bro. F. C. Taylor, agent Leighton, and Mr. Davis, oper- ator Pella, were recent Des Moines callers. Bra H. A. Pickett, who resigned Leighton agency to enter the carpenter trade, was succeeded by Bro. F. C. Taylor, third Evans. Bro. Taylor succeeded by Bro. Jamison from second there. Bro. Shafer, agent Springhill, is now comfortably located in a new depot, the old one having burned down about a year ago. Bro. Cox, Harper, visiting Oskaloosa rela- tives over Thanksgiving, relieved by Bro. Beintema, later to Evans second. Bra Roes Shakel, third Chariton, visited a few days in Pella recently. Bro. R. C. Jacobs, joint agent C. R. I. & P. and M. & St. L., resigned as the heavy transfer work there could not be done in eight hours by one man. We hope some ar- rangement will be made which will induce him to remain. Bro. F. J. Meehan relieved him. Cert. 785. Louisiana Division — Our meeting at El Dorado, November 22d, was attended by fourteen brothers. Local Chairman Jones presided, and much good was done. Bro. Jones intends to conduct these meetings at different junction points sq every brother will have a chance to attend. This division is in a better condition than ever before. Keep the good work going. Only one delinquent left Let’s get him. Bro. L M. Gibbons of Leola is now W. U. manager at Longview, Texas. Bro. C. R. Brown, Ruston first Is off ninety days on account of his health. The three brothers reported as delinquent in the October journal was an error. They are paid up, were at that time and are three of the strongest members on the division. About five years ago a donation was made fpr a brother on this division who was very hard up on account of illness in his fam- ily. We all contributed to the good cause. He is still holding his old job, but has been a “non” for quite a while. This is the way he shows his appreciation for the favor. Cert. 3429. Colorado Division — Only three nons left Dec. 1st. F. J. Fow- ler, Kanorado, who has headed each list for the past two years, still holds that posi- tion. Mrs. J. Prettyman, Selden, and A. T. Jeffers, Norton, are the other two. Only four delinquents. All who were shown on the non list last month and not on this one are now members in good standing and are to be treated as such. If you havent’ paid your dues this is an- other notice to remit at once. Get an an- nual, they are best. I understand that third trick operator at Stratton Is hiring a dray to haul parcel post at $10 a month. Register a kick and If no relief is offered take it up with Bro. Olesen. He is busy, but not too busy to look after your interest. If there are others doing the same thing, set up a howl. You will never get relieved from it till you do. Div. Cor. Aurora Division — Bro. R. A. Richards, Neponset, 111., is now at Batavia, Bro. McLaughlin on main line at Buda, and Bro. Wieghorst is back at La Salle. Bro. La Cure of Tower 38 was recently married. Digitized by Google

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130 The Railboad Telegrapher. Bro. Tom Vernon, second Bristol, is off 8 month looking after his farm interests in Iowa and California. “When assigned one or more periods on Sundays a less number of hours than # on week days, reporting for work Sunday morn- ing and told to work through eight hours, you are entitled to a call the same as If you worked but the first tour of your reg- ular Sunday assignment” General Chairman Denton attended the meeting with Wage Board at Washington, D. C., December 4th. Watson, Downers Grove; Crabtree, Ber- wyn ; Eldred and Chambers, Leland ; Mer- cer, Arlington; Dillion, Princeton; Nelson, Altoona; Carley, Wataga; Lord, Galva, and Wiles Kewanee Depot, are still on the “non” list. Keep after them. Will give you a list of nons on branch lines next write-up. Cert. 5. Aurora Division Notes — Bro. Swanstrom, first Wataga Tower, spent several days recently at Peoria, re- lieved by Bro. S. G. Deane, who later re- lieved at I. C. Tower while Bro. Salander was transferring to M. S. Tower. Bro. Butler, agent Meriden, for some time checked out for 24 hours and then right back. Boys, if you don’t want a job don’t bid on it t Bro. McLaughlin bid in Buda agency ; Bro. Richards, Batavia, and Bro. Red Nel- son, at Galva Depot for years, bid in Ne- ponset agency. Bro. Radcliffe, second Mendota Depot, re- lieved a few days by Harry Miller. If you want a write-up, boys, please send some notes. Cert. 491. Galesburg Division , Peoria Branch — Bro. Rector, agent Maquon, while visiting his parents at Fenton, relieved two weeks by Bro. Tobin, who went to Bloomington on his return. Bro. L. F. Antrim has been relieving his father, Bro. Fred, at Oakhill, awhile. Bro. J. Rogers has moved his family and personal effects from Canton and located at Quincy. Extra Watkins is now at second Farming- ton, vice Extra Swearingen. Both have promised their applications. Bro. Haist, agent Norris, is being re- lieved by Extra Betts. Bro. C. B. Parsons, third Lewistown, who leaves Feb. 1st for Pontiac, where he will start farming in the spring, intends to al- ways carry an up-to-date card. What a great help it would be if some of the nons had this spirit. Thanks to Bro. D. Antrim for notes. Come again. Who else will help by sending in some items. Cert. 2244. Qukncy Branch — Bro. H. L. Thompson, first Augusta, while off sick, relieved by Bro. R. R. Garrison, relieved on seoond Quincy switch by Bro. Rogers. Bra G. S. Herron, agent La Prairie, re- lieved a few days by R. M. Rose, who also relieved the agent at Rlgston several days and later relieved the agent at Piasa a few days. He will soon be up-to-date. Bro. D. E. Fosdyck, agent Fall Creek, spent Sunday recently with his parents in Augusta. Bro. Gibbs, agent Coatsburg, quail hunt- ing a few days, relieved by Extra Betts. Bro. E. M. Ogle relieved several days by Extra L. F. Antrim; Bro. Mullen, Macomb second, by M. E. Crowell ; Bro. Powell, third, and G. M. Adams, first Avon, by Sis- ter Ethel Spurgeon. Brothers, let’s all start the New Tear with an up-to-date card and make our divi- sion solid. H. L. Thompson, Cert. 958. North End Notes — Stocks, second leverman Portal Tower, should show that' he is thankful to the O. R. T. for getting him about 250 by taking out a card and helping along. This enabled him to take a vacation Thanksgiving. Johnson, third there, promises to get a card pay day. He was also able to enjoy four days’ vaca- tion recently. Bro. Chinn, first yard, off one day sick. Bros, Johnson and Watson doubling. Bro. J. A. Steward, third Lynn, on sick list, is slowly improving. Bro. E. E. Greer is relieving Bro. G. G. Gookins, agent Ophiem. six weeks. Thanks to Bro. Kast for help with the items. Let’s all send in Items for next journal ; boost the old ”GT” Division and make it the leader again. Bro. Hubanks, extra on second Graham Tower, later bid in by Bro. Harris of third, not bulletined yet Bro. Crowell to second Portal Tower, vice Dexter, out of service. B. F. Fletcher, Cert 758. La Crosse Division — Bro. Kimball, second Bay City, relieved two days by Bro. D. Rupp, who also re- lieved Bro. J. Tucheck, second North Junc- tion, and he by Bro. S. W. Tucheck, who later opened second Grand Crossing Yard pending bulletin. Job temporary until May 1st, 1920. Bro. Granke, first Pepin, relieved a week by Bro. Gunther, who also relieved Bra Smith, days Minneapolis, while having an operation performed on his ear, later re- lieved by Bro. Zube. Bro. Carney, first Division Street, on sick list relieved by a switchman from Dayton Bluff Yard to handle the levers. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 131 Bro. O’Brien, agent Onalaska, in the hos- pital undergoing an operation, relieved by Bra Rupp, who was later called back to La Crosse dispatcher’s office, relieved by Dispatcher Muldowney’s son, no extra agents available. Bro. Hiller, agent Hager, relieved six weeks by Bro. Slothouer of third there, and he by L. A Howard. Broa Zube, Granke and Tucheck took a trip in Northern Wisconsin, the latter being the only one to bag a deer. Bro. Zepp is relieving the agent at New- port, the Milwaukee road having requested the “QT to furnish a man. Don’t forget your dues for the coming year. f Want to thank Bros. W. E. Wetterlin and White for this write-up. Come again. Cbrt. 227. Brothers Crest on Division — I was too busy to get anything in the December Tslborapheh. W. A. Ennis, after 48 years’ continuous service, has resigned Rosendale agency to spend the rest of his days in Florida, where he has a daughter in the railway service at St Petersburg. Another daughter, station agent on the Great Western, will probably soon follow her father to Florida. We all wish them success in their new home. Brothers, don't «walt to be notified to pay your dues, but remit promptly and make it an annual, if possible. That will end your troubles for the year, as far as that matter is concerned. Several of the brothers al- ready have their annual cards. Let’s make this the banner annual card division , and a solid one. The Increase we will get from Interpretation No. 8 will more than pay our dues and M. B. D. assessments. You are on duty only eight hours. Give the dispatcher good service and keep up your end of the work. My assistant. Bra M. D. Walker, has gone lo Omaha as train dispatcher on that divi- sion. I appreciate his promotion and am glad to know that “the Creston” can send men to another division as train dispatchers, but feel his loss keenly while wishing him the best of luck. Bro. Strohl succeeds him. Brothers, get that non near or with you. There is still one at Balfour. Remember, “No card, no favors ” McPherson is solid. Thanks to Sister Meierotta J. C. Overmuch, L. C., Cert 841. McCook Division — Local Chairman Wyle and Agent Bartley resigned to go Into the hardware business. We are sorry to lose Bro. Wyle but wish him ■access. Bro. Beexley, Wilsonville, in the race to succeed him. Is a good live wire. Agent at Washburn goes to Stratton reg- ular. Boys, are you going to stand for a non working with you? Bro. Luke goes to Inavale agency and Bro. Byres to third Oxford, relieved by Bro. Yaroell, second Indlanola, relieved by a new maji from the U. P., who says he will take out a card the first of the year. Boys, see that he does. We now are 89 % per cent solid. Keep up the slogan, “No card, no favors” ' Bro. Morsey, second trick dispatcher, off several days with a sprained back, relieved by Bro. Staner. Let's have more news from the West End next month. Have not had anything from the branches in some time. Boys, drop me a line. J. H. Ungsr, Cert 8227. Casper Division — Bro. Scott Manderson, resigned,* going back on the farm, relieved by Sister Straley. Bro. Bramel, from Hannibal, who relieved her, only remained one day, 45 below zero was too frigid for him. Bro. Grant, Grey- bull, bid in second, relieved on third by Bro. Carnes, sojourning in the wilds of Alas- ka for two years. Later Bro. Gant went with the Midwest Refining Co. at Greybull, relieved by Bro. Dugan from C. N. W. ; Bro. Manson going to Kane, nights. Bro. Boston, Cowley, visited in St. Louis recently, where his wife presented him with a baby girl. Bro. Munday, Basin, has gone with the Postal In Denver, relieved by Bro. Davisson, relieved by Mulholland. Bro. Jernigan, Worland, purchased a ho- tel at Alma, Colo., relieved by Non Dale. Non Smith, who arrived same day to take third, contracted smallpox and Dale isolated with him, Miss Swan relieving. It’s remark- able what a person will take when he don’t have a card. It is now Bro. Jenkins, agent Lucerne, opened when Chatham closed, Bro. Parker going to Cody. Send me your notes as early as possible, so I can arrange and get them to St Louis before the 25th. U. S.. Cert 8016. Colo. & Southern R. R., Div. 150. Your 1920 card is awaiting your remit- tance. Wildberger, Pueblo, and West, Des Moines, each ordered an annual. Eight nons on the C. & S. that we know of. That’s eight too many. “Butletin— Hereafter all switch engines passing through the Union Depot yard will place all sharp flange cars next engine." Wonder who worked out this brilliant thought? Jas. (Pink) Muir, local chairman Denver Union Terminal, and his committee have been working on the schedule for the past Digitized by Google

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132 The Kaii.roai) Tf.f.egbapheb. two months. Understand It .will soon be in print and all will have a copy. The regular meeting for December 11th was capceled on account of the general chairman being in Washington and the Plumb Plan meeting was held on December 10th. We still have Government control. Your membership in the Plumb Plan League will help make it Government ownership. Several changes will be made in the mem- bership of the South Park,' should plans that are now under way go through. Manager Green "FX” Denver Yard, has taken Mrs. Green to the Coast. She has been in very poor health for some time. A two-days’ snow- blockade on the Wyom- ing District, beginning December 13, caused all passenger trains to be detoured via the Union Pacific, and stopped all freight busi- ness. Bob Dempsey, third “GN” Denver Union Depot, works the same wires for 59.4 cents an hour for which the Santa Fe man on first trick receives 66 cents per hour. We tried to change this by refusing to handle Santa Fe business, but Manager Jackson, In “GN.” refused to stand with us on account of not having instructions. ’ Wm. McGrath, Cert. 95. Second Division — Bro. Werner Voh Winckler, formerly oper- ator at Rieth, recently located at Union Junction as agent, died at La Grande hos- pital November 25th, of typhoid fever. His father was notified and a brother came and accompanied the remains to the family home at Bellingham, Wash., for burial. The Or- der, through the local chairman, wired the family the sympathy of the members and sent a floral wreath bearing the O. R. T. In- scription, for the funeral, for which they ex- press their gratitude and thanks in a letter to the local chairman. The members so- licited for funds to purchase the flowers for Bro. Von Winckler’s funeral responded so liberally that it left a surplus which will be used to start a permanent flower fund. Amount and details later. Assistant Local Chairman Baumgardner, at La Grande, attended Bro. Von Winckler during his illness, and after his death as- sisted the family in arranging to remove the remains to Bellingham. Bro. Von Winckler was a loyal friend and brother, and a host of friends grieve over his untimely death. He was 34 years old and unmarried. Weatherby “BY” has been opened with three tricks — the first time since the writer came to the road. Send your notes to Bro. F. W. Baum- gardner, La Grange, Ore., and help him to keep the “Mountain” Division in the fra- ternal columns, which is just as important as keeping up our dues, getting in members, etc. Show no quarter to the two agents on this division who persist in remaining “nons” while taking all the emoluments we have been able to secure for them. We have had their promises long enough. L. Florida East Coast Ry.v Div. 160. On account of Government restrictions limiting the size of our official organ, pub- lication of “Assignments,” “In Memoriams,” “Cards of Thanks” and “Vacations” have been discontinued. Decision of Docket T-450 reads: “If the employes in question, designated as ticket clerks, at Key West and New Smyrna, have charge of a station, take the place of or perform the work of a ticket agent, they shall be governed and rated under the provision of Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27.” Bro. F. W. Moore, agent Marathon, still out West for his healtL. wishes to thank the members through the journal for their assistance. His address is 2629 Federal St., El Paso, Texas. Bros. Pope and Chambers, South Jax, off few days on account of sickness, are back on their jobs. “VQ” and “A.” The Chicago & Alton R. R., Div. 168. Western Division — Bro. Devault, “B” Bloomington, and wife were recent Kansas City Sunday visitors. Bro. Barton, Slater second, has returned from a two weeks’ vacation. Bro. Wise, ”DV,” bid Vera third back again. Bro. Beal, first Odessa, has gone West for his health. Bro. King wTas off a few days on account of sickness 90 days, Bro. Lewis relieving. Bro. Dunn, agent New Bloom- field, is also off for 90 days. Bro. Adams, Mexico, now has a ticket clerk, relieving him of one of his heavy responsibilities. Bro. Jim Morgan, car distributor, Kansas City, is now a benedict ; and Bro. Russel, Vermillion, not satisfied with the gas, shells, heavy artillery and general disagreeable conditions In France, had to go get married. Miss Lucy Smith of Lousiana is the lucky girl. Congratulations and best wishes, and, Russel, remember your future is what you make it There is a certain signal supervisor on this division who has a habit of cussing out towermen and otherwise bullying and In- timidating them. This simply must be stopped at once. Bro. Foster Hire, at Nebo second and third for the last three months, relieved Sis- ter Bertha Gowin, third Blue Springs, a few days while she did her Xmas shopping, and Bro. Lovelace, second there, ten day’s. Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Teleqrapher. 133 Bra Kraft is relieving Agent Llgon at Selsa, who is In the hospital following an at- tack of appendicitis. Someone line Mr. Ligon up when he returns to work. Send your notes to Bro. Lovelace at Blue Springs. Bro. Davis is back on second Independence after a three-months’ vacation, relieved by Sister Hocklnsmidt, now visiting her mother ' at Odessa. Some of the boys were disappointed at not receiving their back pay for Christmas. Some of the boys at such offices as Slater, Dv., etc., have already received their raise. Ours was due with our first December pay and our back pay some time in January. The dues have been raised to $10 annu- ally, but it is worth it The Order has its necessary expenses same as any other or- ganization, and these expenses increased with ether things; so It is no more than could be expected. Now, boys, on receipt of your first Janu- ary pay, remit your dues. Don’t wait for the secretary to write you, and don’t put it off till the last moment Get your card and start the new year right “K,” Cert 625. Oregon Short Line R. R-, Div. 172. Idaho Division— Bra North, who relieved Bro. Clark at Dietrich several months, has returned to Declo. E o. Jaggar goes to Hazelton as relief agent and Bro. McElroy to Buhl agency. Seven feet of the beautiful reported by Bra Knott at Ketchum, the week before Christmas, and still coming. Bra Davis, relief agent, went to Fruit* land pending bulletin ; Bro. Johnson from the C. & O. to second Ontario ; Bro. Escue, ticket position there temporary, and Bro. Raasmussen from the D. & R. G. to ticket position at Caldwell. Local Chairman Lefler, while attending the Salt Lake meeting, revising the sched- ule, was relieved by Kinney, who upon his return relieved Bro. Dolan, second Welser, spending the holidays at Butte with his father and mother. Bro. Jones, Weiser, spent the holidays at Topeka, Kan., relieved by Henry. It is now Bro. Phillips at Orchard and Bra Vandervllt at Payette, making the west end solid with the exception of Jollineau at Nampa and Escue at Kuna. Get after them. It is time to remit our dues again for 1920. Remit at once and save the local treasurer and L. C. the trouble of writing you. Pay for the whole year, if possible, and get an annual. • I wish to thank Bro. Lefler for the items he sent R. W. Schinzlir. Toledo & Ohio Central R. R.v Div. 173. Bro. Mitchell, second Kile, has a new Maxwell. Bro. E. O. Evans, first Kile recently re- turned from France, is being congratulated on his recent marriage. He was relieved by Bro. Sevrin while off. Bro. McCoy, second West Broad, relieved by former Dispatcher Holycross, who also relieved Bro. Large on a trip to New York, latter on return relieving Bro. McDermitt, “GO.” First Trick Dispatcher Ebright, off on ac- count of the sickness and death of his son, relieved by Dispatcher Dudley of second, and he by Bro. Robinson, who also relieved Dispatcher Ferris on the Corning Division. Lewis Davis, second trick towerman Big Four, West Columbus, going to work Tues- day, Dec. 2nd, was about to board a large truck on North Central avenue when a tour- ing car driven by Walter Johnson dashed around the truck, ran over him, breaking both legs and two ribs. He was removed to Mt. Carmel Hospital, where hts fractures were set In place Dec. 4th. He will be off duty for some time. Geo. Davis, his son, is working the trick. Bro. Morris was off five days with an at- tack of lumbago. A man from Jim Brown’s section pulled the levers one day when Geq. Davis relieved him. Davis has worked all three tricks in the last few days. He has been lining them up for the trainmen and hope he will line up with us and get an up-to-date. Bro. Arnold, agent Arnold, is being con- gratulated on the arrival of a new boy at his home. ] ?J No notes received for the last two or three months, boys, hence no write-up. Expect to hear from General Chairman Moore shortly about his trip through Michi- gan and Colorado. It is with regret that we learned of the death of Dale, the oldest son of Dispatcher Rollie Ebright, about 19 years of age. He had been ill some time with rheumatism, but maintained his cheerful and pleasant disposition during his entire illness and will be greatly missed. Flowers were presented by the O. R. T. and railroad boys. We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the father and mother, brother and sisters. Well, boys, I hope you have all had a merry Xmas and will have a prosperous New Year. Do not forget that assessment which is due. Pay up and get an up-to-date. Cert. 165. C. T. H. & S. E. R. R., Div. 180. Illinois Division — It you have a grievance, take it up with your chief dispatcher, keeping a copy of your letters. If unable to settle with him, then refer all papers to me. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 134 Bro. Page, off at ‘NY" account coal strike, who relieved Bro. Micky at "BY" a few days, latter having the smallpox, also re- lieved Sister Wright, St. Bernice, several days. Mr. Terry, Stockland second, reopened, says he is going to take out a 1920 card just as soon as the paymaster gets to him. Local Chairman Blyth, who attended the T. H. meeting December 13th, reports a large crowd, all well pleased with the way things are going. General Chairman Powell gave them a few pointers on things happen- ing in Washington; says we have practi- cally a 100 per cent division and must hold it that way, so as to keep down all the ex- pense we can. It is now Bro. Mann. There are several more who should follow his good example. Stick to it, brothers. No card, no favors.” Send in some notes, brothers. We would be very glad to hear from the Indiana Divi- sion. P. A. Malonb, D. C. Mo. & No. Ark. R. R.y Dlv. 182. Bro. Pierce Wheaton is on leave of ab- sence back to the farm. Bro. Robertson is back at Eureka, vice Bro. Miller to Aubrey. Bro. Kendall, Green Forest, is still visit- ing, and Bro. Ahrens, Batonia, in the hos- pital at St. Louis. Bro. Tarkington, extra dispatcher, visiting relatives in Kansas City several days before returning to "GO" ticket office, ye sorlbe re- lieving. Bro. Jennings from Miller succeeds Agent Frozier at Arlberg, who went to Georgetown. Bro. E. F. Stewart from the R. I. went to Arlberg while the transfer was being made. Bro. Holloway, Heher SpringB, ts being re- lieved by Bro. Webb. It is now Bro. Stark at Elba, non-tele- graph station. Several changes were made recently which I was unable to get a line on. Send in your notes, brothers. Part of our new contract is effective July 1st General manager will sign and print copies, which should soon reach us. Agent Shirley at Shirley is the only non on the entire line. You agents next door put some burrs under his saddle. Bro. Stricland, lineman, had an enjoyable time attending the shrine meeting at Little Rock. Let’s make 1920 the record year, brothers, stay organized, stand up for What’s right and that which belongs to us. Happy New Year to all. E. F. Stbvxnbon, Cert. 61. La. Ry. & Navigation Co.v Dlv. 183. Gauthier, Angola, recently released from the Army, and Howard, Angola second, Div. 88, also Porter, new agent at Colfax, Div. 37, will transfer to this division shortly. Judging from the number of agents at Col- fax in the past few months it must take a heavy weight to get by there. We are glad to note that Alexandria is solid once more, "Non" Drummond being out of the service. Nineteen wire is not found open so frequently on the Western Division now. Bro. Attya bid in Pinevllle agency; Bro. Hooper, McElroy ; Bro, ' Syder, "BR" Baton Rouge dispatchers’ office, and Bra Hurd, Taylortown. Bro. Prevost, "FD" New Or- leans, has resigned and is waiting for relief. Alexandria and "FD" New Orleans second, and second and third and the agency at An- gola are on bulletin. We trust some one will bid in "FD" capable of handling it. Stu- dents have had a fair trial at it, and it is no place for a "ham." If any brother knows the whereabouts of A S. Worrell, formerly of Garyville, and A. F. Thibodeaux, formerly of "FD" New Or- leans. kindly communicate with them re- garding their dues and reinstatement, and have them get in touch with the G. S. Sc T. at once. These two men were In good stand- ing up to and including August 81st, and are not in the service of this company any longer, but we would be glad to see them keep up their membership. Letters have been received from a great many of our members pertaining to ques- tions covered by our book of rules. We would like to impress upon each of you the importance of thoroughly posting yourselves on these subjects which are fully explained in our schedule of wages and working con- ditions. It is also urged that all will read over carefully our new constitution, many changes having been made during the twelfth biennial and twenty-second regular session of the Grand Division, held in SL Louis, Mo., May 12th, 1919. Many items of interest will also be found in our monthly journal of great benefit to our readers. A letter has been received by the gen- eral chairman and secretary-treasurer, ad- dressed to them and Superintendent Gra- ham, signed by five operators and agents, to the effect that they are members of Divi- sion 183 in good standing, and complaining because the company has in its employ an operator at Alexandria who does not carry an up-to-date card. Such complaints should not be addressed to officials of the railroad company. It only aggravates any official to reoeive such letters or complaints. This practice must be stopped. We would be glad to have the name of the author of that letter. If any member knows of a non, it is his duty to get in communication with him if near by and secure his application, or take the matter up with the G. S. & T. and general chairman. This should be done first in each case. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 135 We trust that all of you. including your families, spent a very merry Christmas, and our best wishes for a prosperous New Year. We also trust that every member will also have his new card. Several secured theirs before the middle of December. We hare a few members around 68 and 70 years of age who always keep up-to-date, you young bucks can certainly keep with them. Cert. 64. Spokane, Port. & Seattle Ry., Div. 184. Bro. J. C. Wright, agent Roosevelt, re- lieved 80 days by Wheeler, a new man. Bro. J. B. Harrauff, Cooks, visiting in Spokane, relieved by Bro. W. R. Rogers. Sister Chapman, second Granddallee, re- lieved two weeks by Bro. E. E. Hopkins. Bro. Theo. Hubbard, second Metolius, bid in the new position opened at Levey on third district. Bra R. D. Montgomery, operator at St. Helens several months, died at Houlton, Oregon, Nov. 24th. The home of Local Chairman Bro. W. F. Kenney was saddened by the death of their seven-year-old daughter Alice, on Dec. 2nd. Bro. and Mrs. W. F. Kenney and the fam- fly of our late Bro. R. D. Montgomery wish to express their gratitude to all for the kind lympathy extended them in their recent )ereavement. J. W.' B., Cert. 127. Trt-CIty O. R. T. Club. At the regular meeting of our club Sunday, Dec. 14th, in Odd Fellows Hall, Davenport, Iowa, M. H. Teed of Div. 23 was elected president, and J. C. Hooper and A1 Bryan of Division 126, vice-president and secre- tary-treasurer, respectively, for 1920. The marker for the grave of Bro. W. H. Smith of Division 23, for which a popular subscription was taken from brothers In this vicinity, has been placed, and the club wishes to extend their thanks and apprecia- tion to all the brothers who made it pos- sible to place it on the last resting place of our deceased member. The date for the reunion planned for the families of the members of the club will be announced the next meeting January 11th. The brothers promise us a treat, music by the mandolin club, lots of eats *n everything. Brothers, don't overlook getting that up- to-date card now. “Get in the game” and help in every way possible. We need you, want your attendance at the meetings, and especially want every one to feel at home there and offer all suggestions possible that will help the O. R. T. and our club. Don’t forget our meeting date, second Sunday each month, Odd, Fellows’ Hall, Davenport, Iowa. Al. Bryan, Cert. 3083, Div. 126, 230 Elmwood Ave., Davenport, Iowa. Cort Club. Our regular meeting held Dec. 6th was an open session with Bro. G. Dal Jones In the chair, President Bro. E» J. Thomas be- ing in Washington. Bro. Dave Smart, as sincere and forceful a talked as he is an earnest worker, de- scribed his trip to Siberia in interesting detail. That dark, benighted and forsaken country, he said, must some day be a re- public, or the graveyard of the hopes, ambi- tions and dreams of a people like ourselves, who long to be free. Those who were absent missed a heart- felt talk as he recited the struggles, the hopes, the mistakes and the despair of the people in that far distant land. Bro. Smart contracted pneumonia while th§re, was taken to a base hospital and cared for by the Red Cross and has nothing but praise for these faithful nurses who brought many an American boy back to life and health. Sister Bessie Horning, after many months’ Illness, accompanied by her husband, Bro. E. C. Horning was among those preeent She is still partially blind, *but there is hope that her sight will be fully restored in the near future. Bro. Horning, who when she was taken sick was in France with the Rail- way Engineers, met with an accident while on his motorcycle, breaking his arm and he returned home to care for her. He gave us quite an interesting talk on his experiences in France, after which we adjourned. Come out, brothers and sisters, Join the Cort Club and get acquainted with each other. You are always welcome, an up-to- date O. R. T. card will admit you. Wm. B. Spencer, Cert. 969, Div. 76. Digitized by VjOOQle

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GRAND DIVISION NOTICE. H. E. Swank, Cert. 834, Division 59, has been suspended for conduct unbecoming a member. Mutual Benefit Department Assessment No. 145 is due January 1, 1920 Time for payment expires February 29, 1920 AMOUNT OF ASSESSMENTS On $ 300.00 (Series A) r $2.40 per year On 600.00 (Series B) 3.60 per year On 1,000.00 (Series C) 7.20 per year Claim BENEFITS PAID IN DECEMBER No. Name Cause Div. Cert. Series Amount 3032 . . Edward L. Andrist . . . Appendicitis 3 . . 34495 . . A . . $ 300.00 3033.. Thomas A. Roberts ... Cancer, Large Intestine 32. .38721. .B. . 500.00 3034.. Walter L. Bradley. .. .Acute Gastritis 11. .33390. .B. . 500.00 3035.. G. H. Manchester Electrocuted 172. .46027. .C, . 1,000.00 3036.. Laban C. Bush Lobar Pneumonia 59. .37622. .C. . 1,000.00 3037. .John W. Ecker Heart Failure 93. .19089. .C. . 1,000.00 3038. .William Gorman Septicaemia 38. .36720. .C. . 1,000.00 3039 . . Colin Johnson Influenza 7 . . 19186 . . B . . 500.00 3040.. J. E. RndweU Apoplexy 28. .17236. .C. . 1,000.00 3041. .Albert H. Cable General Paralysis Insane 23. .34289. .A. . 300.00 3042.. Henry A. Flagg Cirrhosis of Liver 29. .27681. .A. . 300.00 3043.. Jesse G. Hurley Pulmonary Tuberculosis 15.. 8770.. B.. 500.00 3044.. Jesse C. McGowen Gunshot Wound 36.. 6720.. B.. 600.00 3045.. Thomas Wynn Peritonitis 53. .54127. .C. . 1,000.00 3046.. Ross A. Hodges Acute Meningitis 33. .48792. .C. . 1,000.00 3047.. Edwin P. Howell Chronic Myocarditis 8. .30887. .A. . 300.00 * Total $10,700.00 FINANCIAL STATEMENT— MORTUARY FUND. Receipts. Received on assessments to November 30, 1919 $2,432,980.55 Received on assessments December 34,433.39 Interest 57,330.61 $2,624,744.55 Disbursements. Death claims paid to November 30, 1919 $1,913,527.47 Death claims paid in December 10,700.00 Assessments refunded account rejected applications 3,418.51 Assessments transferred to dues 404.99 Balance on hand credit Mortuary Fund, Dec. 31, 1919 596,693.58 $2,524,744.55 C. B. RAWLINS, Secretary and Treasurer, Mutual Benefit Department. Digitized by Google

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The Bailroad Telegrapher. 137 Index to Division Directory Name and Division. No. Addison, N. Y Annapolis Royal, N. S Ann Arbor Ry Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Ry Atlanta, Birmingham & Atlantic Ry Atlanta & West Point and Western Ry. of Alabama Atlantic Coast Line R.R Baltimore & Ohio Ry Baltimore & Ohio — Chicago Terminal.. Bangor & Aroostook Ry Bessemer & Lake Erie Ry Boston 6 Maine R. R. Boston, Mass Boston, Revere Beach & Lynn R. R Boston Terminal Buffalo, Rochester & Pittsburgh Ry Canadian Government Rys Canadian National Rys., Western Lines Canadian Pacific Ry Carolina, Clinchfleld & Ohio Ry Central New England R. R. Central of Georgia Ry Central R. R. of New Jersey Central Vermont Ry Chesapeake A Ohio Ry Chicago & Alton Ry... Chicago A Eastern Illinois Ry Chicago A Northwestern Ry. Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Ry Chicago Great Western Ry Chicago, IU. Chicago, Indianapolis & Louisville Ry.. Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Ry Chicago, Rock Island A Pacific Ry Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Ry Chicago, Terre Haute & Southeastern Ry - Cincinnati, Indianapolis & Western Ry. Cleveland. Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis Ry Cobalt Ont Colorado A Southern R. R Danville A Western Ry Delaware A Hudson Ry Delaware, Lackawanna & Western R. R. Denver & Rio Grande Ry Denver & Salt Lake R. R Denver Union Terminal Detroit, Toledo A Ironton Ry Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic Ry El Paso A Southwestern Ry Erie Ry Florida East Coast Ry Fort Smith A Western R. R Fort Worth A Denver City Ry Georgia Ry Georgia A Florida Ry Georgia, Florida A Alabama Ry Georgia Southern & Florida Ry. Glace Bay, N. S Grand Trunk Ry Grand Trunk Pacific Ry Great Northern Ry Green Bay & Western Ry Gulf Coast Lines Gulf, Mobile A Northern Ry Gulf & Ship Island and Mississippi Cen- tral R. R Hamilton. Ont Hocking Valley Ry Hudson A Manhattan R.*R Illinois Central Ry Indianapolis Union & Belt Ry. Com- panies International & Great Northern Ry Kanawha & Michigan Ry Kansas City Southern Ry Kansas City, Mexico & Orient Ry Kansas City Terminal Kentucky A Indiana Terminal R. R Lake Erie A Western Ry 108 111 164 61 146 63 16 33 33 83 61 41 156 81 29 92 11 43 7 175 29 46 45 171 40 168 34 91 9 23 126 4 180 21 3 99 150 59 12 30 49 79 150 48 116 137 42 160 75 145 50 167 185 56 133 1 1 70 142 166 80 64 155 40 74 36 66 25 118 5 163 65 181 120 Name of division. Lehigh & Hudson River Ry Lehigh Valley Ry... Lehigh & New England R. R Los Angeles & Salt Lake R. R. Louisville & Nashville R. R Louisiana Railway & Navigation Co. . . Maine Central Ry Michigan Central Ry Minneapolis & St. Louis Ry Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste, Marie Ry Missouri & North Arkansas R. R. Missouri, Kansas & Texas Ry Missouri, Oklahoma & Gulf Ry Missouri Pacific Ry Mobile & Ohio Ry Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Ry. New Haven, Conn New Orleans Great Northern R. R New York. Central Ry New York Central Ry. West New York, Chicago & St. Louis Ry New York, N. Y New York, New Haven & Hartford R. R. New York, Ontario & Western Ry. . . . Norfolk Southern Ry Norfolk A Western Ry Northern Alabama Ry Northern Pacific Ry Northwestern Pacific Ry Olean, N. Y Oregon Short Line Oregon-Washington Ry A Navigation Co. Panama Ry Pennsylvania Lines (East and West).. Pere Marquette Ry Philadelphia & Reading Ry Pittsburgh, Pa Pittsburgh & West Virginia: R. R Quebec, Que Queen A Crescent Route (North) Queen & Crescent Route (South) Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac Ry Rio Grand Junction R. R Rio Grand Southern R. R Rutland Ry. .. St. Joseph & Grand Island R. R St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern Ry. St. Louis, Mo St. Louis-San Francisco Ry St. Louis, San Francisco & Texas Ry.. St. Louis Southwestern Ry San Antonio & Aransas Pass Ry Seaboard Air Line Ry Southern Ry Southern Ry. In Mississippi Southern Pacific, Atlantic System Southern Pacific Ry., Pacific System... Springfield, Mass Spokane, Portland A Seattle System.... Temiskaming & Northern Ontario Ry.. Tennessee Central Railroad Terminal R. R. Association of St. Louis. Texas & Pacific Ry Toledo & Ohio Central Ry Tring Junction. Que Trinity & Brazo9 Valley Ry Ulster & Delaware Ry Union Pacific Ry Union Terminal of Dallas Virginia, Minn Virginia Ry Wabash Ry Wabash, Pittsburgh Terminal Ry Washington. D. C Western Maryland Ry Western Pacific Ry... West Side Belt Ry Wheeling A Lake Erie Ry Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Ry Zanesville & Western Ry Digitized by Google No. 148 124 68 111 58 183 140 16 71 119 182 22 174 31 24 57 29 179 8 19 18 44 29 20 147 14 69 54 165 78 172 161 168 17 39 10 52 55 115 62 69 125 49 49 157 6 31 2 32 177 27 141 28 59 24 72 53 38 184 99 178 47 88 173 131 144 113 67 127 13 26 35 60 82 153 65 56 93 173

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138 The Railroad Telegrapher. Official Directory General Office*, St. Louis, Mo. 7th Floor, Missouri State Life Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. GRAND OFFICERS. E. J. MANTON President St. Louis, Mo. W. T. BROWN ..First Vice-President €039 Rhodes Ave., Chicago, 111. G. D. ROBERTSON.... Third Vice-President 14 Delaware Ave., Ottawa, Ont. J. M. MEIN Deputy President for Canada 24 Rainsford Road, Toronto, Ont. L. M. EDDY Fifth Vice-President 620 El Camiro Real, Redwood City, Calif. BOARD OF J. F. Miller, Chairman, 71-72 Gunther Bldg., Fayette and St. Paul Sts., Baltimore, Md. B. E. Nason, Secretary, North Branch, Minn. W. P. Hutchinson, 137 King St., Moncton, N. B. C. B. RAWLINS. .. .Grand Secy, and Treas. St. Louis, Mo. T. M. PIERSON Second Vice-President Central Square, N. Y. J. J. DERMODY Fourth Vice-President 4424 9th St., N. W.. Washington, D. C. J. W. ANDERSON Sixth Vice-President 915 Villa Place, Nashville, Tenn. I* J. ROSS Seventh Vice-President Room 8, 1098 Chapel St., New Haven, Conn. G. E. Soyster, Room 310, Drexel Bank Bldg., 765 Oakwood Blvd., Chicago, HI. H. G. Alexander, 122 Tate St., Greensboro. N. C. ADVERTISING All correspondence pertaining to advertising should be addressed to The W. N. Gates Co., Managers Advertising, Garfield Building, Cleveland, Ohio. Division Directory GRAND DIVISION — Attached membership not confined to any particular railroad or territory. E. J. Manion, President, St. Louis, Mo.; C. B. Rawlins, Grand Secre- tary and Treasurer, St. Louis, Mo. No. 1 — Division covers the Grand Trunk and Grand Trunk Pacific Rys. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. J. T. Eddy, Gen’l Chairman, Grand Trunk Ry., Mar- cellus, Mich.; Thos. H. Walsh, G. C., Grand Trunk Pacific Ry., Terrace, B. C.; D. L. Shaw, Gen’l S. & T., 867 Waterloo st., London, Ont. No. 2, ST. LOUIS, MO.— Meets 3d Monday of each month at 8 p. mM small hall south side, third flpor, Masonic Temple (Odeon bldg.). Grand and Finney aves., St. Louis, Mo.; L. W. Quick, Chief Telegrapher, 8th floor Star bldg., St. Louis, Mo.; R. J. McElhinney, S. & T., 4110a Arsenal st., St. Louis, Mo. No. 3 — Division covers C., C., C. & St. Louis Railway System. E. Whalen, Gen’l Chair- man, 1639 8th ave., Terre Haute, Ind.; Geo. Lavengood, Gen’l S. & T., 404 Monroe st., Alexandria, Ind. System meeting held at Spencer Hotel, Indianapolis, Ind., sub- ject to call of the Gen'l Chairman. No. 4 — Division covers the C., St. P., M. Sc O. Ry. W. J. Liddane, Gen’l Chairman, 540 Dayton Ave., St. Paul, Minn.; D. O. Tenney, Gen’l S. - & T., 439 Nicollet aye., Mankato, Minn. No. 5 — Division covers the Kansas City Southern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman; S. Nelson, Gen’l Chairman, 2520 Hazel st., Texarkana, Tex. F. EL Young, G. S. & T., 611 Olive st.. Texarkana, Tex. No. 6 — Division covers the Union Pacific Railroad and St. Joseph & Grand Island R. R. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. E. L. Stump, Gen’l Chairman, 433 Keeline bldg., Omaha, Neb.; John ,R. Hughey, Jr., Gen'l S. & T., Box 294, Junc- tion City, Kan. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 139 No. 7— Division covers the Canadian Pacific Railroad. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. J. M. Mein. Gen’l Chairman, 24 Rainsford Road, Toronto, Ont.; A. B. Chap- man, Chairman Eastern Lines, 265 Pic- cadilly st, London, Ont.; Geo. Gilbert, Chairman Western Lines, Kenora, Ont.; R. C. Wilton, Gen’l S. & T.. Kenora, Ont. No. 8— Division covers the New York Cen- tral Ry. H. B. Morey, Gen'l Chairman, 1630 Neilson st., Utica, N. Y.; W. p. Man- sell, Gen’l S. & T., Corfu, N. Y. No. 17 — Division covers Pennsylvania Sys- tem. J. P. Miller, Gen’l Chairman, 71-72 Gunther Bldg., Fayette and St. Paul sts., Baltimore, Md. J. E. Hlndmarch, Chair- man Western Lines, Troy, 111. W. M. Skin- ner, Gen’l S. & ■£., 71-72 Gunther Bldg.. Fayette and St Paul sts., Baltimore, Md. No. 18 — Division covers the New York, Chi- cago & St. Louis Railroad System. F. F. Cowley, Gen’l Chairman, . 519 W. Lincoln st, Findlay, Ohio; C. O. Crisenberry, G. S. & T., Knox, Ind. No. 9— Division covers the C. I. & L. Ry., J. E. Hollon, Gen’l Chairman, 2815 Cornell ave., Indianapolis. Ind.; F. E. Rees, Gen’l S. ft T., Francesville, Ind. No. 10— Division covers the Philadelphia & Reading Ry. M. A. McNeil, Gen’l Chair- * man, 1213 Walnut st., Harrisburg, Pa. ; O. L Farlow, G. S. & T., 2513 N. Bancroft it., Philadelphia, Pa. ' No. 11— Division covers the Canadian Gov- ernment Rys. J. J. Tralnor, Gen’l Chair- man, care of P. E. I. Ry., Charlottetown, P. E. I.; Wm. Parsons, Gen’l S. & T., St. Romuald d’Etchemin, Que. No. 12— Division covers the Delaware & Hud- son Ry. System, Quebec, Montreal & Southern and Napierville Junction Rys. Meetings subject to call of Chairman. G. A Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, Room 31-32. 121 North Pearl st.. Albany, N. Y.; J. G. Malouin, Gen’l Chairman Canadian Lines, Vercheres, Que.; O. C. Benjamin, Gen’l S. * T., Clemons, N. Y. No. 13— Division • coverB Virginia Ry. H. W. Hix, Gen’l Chairman, Box 18, Salem. Va.; J. E. Goodwin, Gen’l S. & T., Box 24, Eggleston, Va. No. 14— Division covers the Norfolk & West- ern Railway System. Meets subject to call •f Chairman. H. C. Callaway, Gen’l Chairman, Graham, Va.; J. L. George, Gen’l S. ft T., Box 402, Roanoke, Va. No. 19 — Division covers New York Central Railroad West. G. E. Kipp, Gen’l Chair- man, Blasdell, N. Y.; G. R. Smith, As- sistant Gen’l Chairman, Trenton, Mich.; E. D. Graham, Gen’l S. & T., Mishawaka, Ind. No. 20 — Division covers the New York, On- tario & Western Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. L. R. Conner, Gen’l Chairman, Cottekill, N. Y.; H. D. Pfoor. Gen’l S. & T., P. O. Box 28, Jer- myn, Pa. No. 21 — Division covers the Cincinnati, In- dianapolis & Western Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. J. H. Carter, Gen’l Chairman, Marshall, Ind.; J. V. Cummins, G. S. & T., 1149 N. Mount st., Indianapolis, Ind. No. 22 — Division covers Missouri, Kansaa & Texas Railway System. W C. Thompson, Gen’l Chairman, Box 1269, Muskogee. Okla. ; F. A. Brown, G. S. & T., Box 293, Coffeyville, Kan. No. 23 — Division covers the Chicago, Mil- waukee & St Paul Railway, Bellingham & Northern Railway, Big Blackfoot Rail- way, Gallatin Valley Railway, Puget Sound & Willapa Harbor Railway, Seattle, Port Angeles &> Western Railway and Ta- coma-Eastern Railroad, Davenport, Rock Island & Northwestern Ry. G. E. Soyster, Gen’l Chairman, Room 310, Drexel Bank bldg., 765 Oakwood blvd., Chicago, 111.; Ed. R. Derrickson, Gen’l S. & T., Room 310, Drexel Bank bldg.. 765 Oakwood blvd., Chicago, 111. No. 15— Division covers the Atlantic Coast Line R. R. B. F. Wheeler, Gen’l Chair- man, Oviedo, Fla.; J. H. Williams, Gen’l S* A T., Box. 356, Richmond, Va. No. 16— Division covers the Michigan Cen- tral Railroad. Meets 2d Monday in each month. Odd Fellows Temple, Michigan and Maybury aves., Detroit. Mich.; D. N. Smith. Gen’l Chairman, 606 E. Ann st, Ann Arbor. Mich.; J. H. Staley. Gen’l S. & T.. Box 922, Welland, Ont. No. 24 — Division covers the M. & O. and Southern Ry. in Mississippi. L. T. Muf- daugh, Gen’l Chairman, 613 N. Royal st, Jackson, Tenn.; C. E. Hendley, Gen’l S. & T., Artesia, Miss. No. 25— Division covers the International and Great Northern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. T. C. Berry, Gen’l Chairman, 3002 South Presa st, San Antonio, Tex.; D. D. Hungate. Gen’l S. ft T.. Jewett. Tex. Digitized by Google

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140 The Railroad Telegrapher. No. 26 — Division covers the Wabash Ry. F. H. Unglaub. Gen’l Chairman, 310 W. Col- lege ave.# Jacksonville, 111.; M. E. Fohey, Gen'l S. & T., 450 Crane ave., Detroit, Mich. • No. 27 — Division covers St. Louis Southwest- ern Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. P. D. Neislar, Gen’l Chairman, Box 93, Lamkin, Tex.; C. B. Welch, Gen’l S. & T.t St. Francis, Ark. No. 28 — Division covers the Seaboard Afr Line Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. W. L. Tidwell, Gen’l Chairman, Helena, Ga.; F. O. Cumming, Gen’l S. & T., 15 Dinwiddle st, Ports- mouth, Va. No. 29 — Division covers New York, New Haven & Hartford R. R., Boston Terminal, and Central New England R. R. Meets 1st Friday each month, 8 p. m„ in Red Men’s Hall, 48 Church st., corner Crown. New Haven, Conn. First Saturday each month, 8 p. m., in Pilgrim Hall, 694 Washington st., Boston, Mass. Third Saturday each month in Swayts Lodge, Odd Fellows Hall, 96 Westminster st., Providence, R. I. M. W. Handy, Gen’l Chairman, N. Y. N. H. & H. R. R., Bov 596, New Haven, Conn.; S. E. Haseltine, Gen'l Chairman, Boston Terminal, 21 French ave., So. Braintree, Mass.; G. S. House, Gen’l Chairman, Cent. New England R. R., Pleasant Valley, N. Y.; T. O. Tiger. Gen’l S. & T.. Box 596, New Haven, Conn. No/ 30— Division covers Delaware, Lacka- wanna & Western R. R. M. M. Farley, Gen’l Chairman, Hallstead, Pa.; C. C. Cooper, G. S. & T., 71% S. Greenbush st., Cortland, N. Y. No. 31 — Division covers the Missouri Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to oall of Chairman. H. J. Mohler, Gen’l Chairman, Room 812, Star bldg., St. Louis, Mo.; N. S. Morgan, Gen’l S. & T., Room 812, Star bldg., St. Louis, Mo. No. 32 — Division covers the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. G. Kelso, Gen’l Chairman, 312 Woodruff bldg., Springfield, Mo.; M. T. Fullington, Gen’l S. & T., 312 Woodruff bldg., Springfield, Mo. No. 33 — Division covers the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad System. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. B. C. Lewis, Gen’l Chairman, Oakland, Md.; O. E. Marsh, Ass’t Gen’l Chairman, 4121 31st st., Oakley Park, Cincinnati, O. ; E. A. Shaffer, Gen’l S. & T., Box 288, Oakland. Md. No. 34 — Division covers the Chicago & East- ern Illinois Railway System. Meets sub- ject to the call of the Chairman. H. H. Skiles, Gen’l Chairman, R. F. D. No. 5. Evansville, Ind.; O. A. Hixon, Gen’l S. & T. , 606 Jewel st.. Danville. 111. No. 36 — Division covers the Illinois Central Railroad and the Yazoo & Mississippi Val- ley Railroad. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. A. Mulhall, Gen’l Chairman, Clarkson, Ky.; L. M. Elliott, Gen’l Chair- man, Y. & M. V. Lines, Rolling Forks, Miss.; G. E. Chance, Ass’t Gen’l Chairman, Mounds, 111.; R. L. Shannon, Gen’l S. & T., Anna, 111. No. 38, SPRINGFIELD, MASS.— Meets 3d Saturday each month 7 p. m., Moose Club Hall, 19 Lyman st., Springfield, Mass. Frank P. Sargent, Chief Tel., 36 Cplton ave., Merrick, Mass.; M. J. Walsh, S. & T., 15 Moseley ave., Merrick, Mass. No. 39 — Division covers the Pere Marquette Railroad System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. R. M. Burr, Gen’l Chairman, Central Lake, Mich.; C. P. Neff, Gen’l S. & T., Lock Box 334, Lowell, Mich. No. 40 — Division covers the Chesapeake & Ohio, Chesapeake & Ohio of Indiana and the Hocking Valley Rys. L. E. Hicks, Gen’l Chairman, Cratgsvllle, Va.; J. W. Kiser, Gen’l S. & T., St. Albans, W. Va. No. 41— Division covers Boston & Maine R. R. Meetings subject to call of Gen’l Chair- man or Local Chairman. J. B. Bode, Gen’l Chairman, 60 Tudor st., Chelsea. Mass.; L. P. Clifton, Ass’t Gen’l Chairman, 41 Mor- ton st., Waltham, Mass.; H. L. Jones, Gen’l S. & T., R. F. D. No. 37, Fremont, N. H. No. 42 — Division covers the Erie Railroad System. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. E. J. Hesser, Gen’l Chairman, 364 Wallace place, Elmira, N. Y.; C. L. Bridge, Gen’l S. & T., 21 Allen st.. Deposit. N. Y. No. 43 — Division covers Canadian National Railways — Western Lines. Meets subject to call of Chairman. W. H. Phillips, Gen’l Chairman, 522 McIntyre Blk., Winnipeg, Man.; G. H. Palmer, Gen’l S. & T., Dau- phin, Man. f No. 44, NEW YORK, N. Y.— Meets 2d Satur- day each month at 8 p. m., in Fraternity Hall, 22 Harrlman ave., Jamaica. N. Y.; J. S. Thuma, Chief Tel., 26 Franklin st., Jamaica, N. Y.; L. Meringer, S. & T., 1244 Chestnut st., Richmond Hill, N. Y. No. 45 — Division covers Central R. R. of New Jersey. Edwin * F. Pry. Gen’l Chairman, 913 Center st., East Mauch Chunk. Pa.; Wm. T. Smpck, Gen’l S. & T., Wickatunk, N. J. No. 46 — Division covers the Central of Geor- gia Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. H. Livsey, Gen’l Chair- man, East Point, Ga.; B. F. Jinnett. Gen’l S. & T,, Opelika. Ala. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 141 No. 47— Division covers Terminal R. R. Assn, of St. Louis. Meets 4th Wednesday, 7:30 p. m., and following Thursday, 9 a* m., each month, Marquette Hotel, 18th st. and Washington ave., St Louis, Mo. J. F. Seifert, Gen’l Chairman, 4043 Wyoming st., St Louis, Mo.; W. B. Richardson, Gen’l S< & T., 823 North 18th st., St. Louis, Mo. No. 48— Division covers the Detroit Toledo & Ironton Railway. Meets subject to call of Chairman. G. W. Lowery, Gen’l Chair- man, Summithilt Ohio; D. R. Murray, Gen’l S. & T., Good Hope, Ohio. No. 49— Division covers the Denver & Rio Grande Railway System, Rio Grande Junc- tion R. R., and Rio Grande Southern R. R. Meets subject to call of Chairman. E. A. Compton. Gen’l Chairman, Box 171, Den- ver, Colo.; J. C. Brannon, Gen’l S. & T., 1014 S. Union ave., Pueblo, Colo. No. 50— Division covers the Georgia Ry. W. W. Darden, Gen’l Chairman, Crawford, Ga.; J. P. Luckey, Gen'l S. & T., Dearlng, Ga. No. 51— Division covers Bessemer & Lake Erie Railway System. Meets the 4th Thursday of each month in Eagle’s Hall, Greenville, Pa. C. M. Miller, Gen’l Chair- man. 11 First ave., Greenville, Pa.; E. E. Keane, Gen’l S. & T., Box 103, Greenville, Pa. No. 52. PITTSBURGH, PA.— Meets Satur- day, June 15th, 1918, and each alternating Saturday thereafter at 6:30 p. m., 231-233 Fifth ave., 3d floor, Roberts bldg., Pitts- burgh, Pa. S. C. Phillips, Chief Tel., 2209 7th ave., . Beaver Falls, Pa.; R. W. Bees, S. & T., 1417 Huron ave.. New Castle, Pa. No. 53— Division covers Southern Pacific Railway Pacific System. Meets suoject to call of Chairman. T. T. Cull, Gen’i Chair- man, 837 Pacific bldg., San Francisco, Cal.; A. M. Hammond, Gen’l S. & T., 837 Pacific bldg., San Francisco, Cal. No. 54 — Division covers the Northern Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. Sam Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, North Branch, Minn.; B. E. Nason, Gen’l S. & T., North Branch, Minn. No. 55 — Division covers the Wheeling & Lake Erie and Wabash Pittsburgh Termi- nal West Side Belt Rys., and Pittsburgh & West Virginia R. R. Meets 3d Saturday evening of each month at Harmon, Ohio. J. O. Peoples, Gen’l Chairman, Bolivar, Ohio; W. A. Albaugh. Gen’l Chairman P. A W. V. R. R.. R. D. 1, Mingo Junction, Ohio; C. E. Baltzer, Gen’l S. & T., Box 246, Navarre, Ohio. No. 56— Division covers Georgia Southern & Florida Railway System. G. L. Siebert, Gtn'l Chairman, Valdosta, Ga.; F. H. Cas- on, Gen’l S. & T., Lake City, Fla. No. 57 — Division covers Nashville, Chatta- nooga & St. Louis Ry. J. M. Hamilton, Gen’l Chairman, 408 Fourth National Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn.; L. C. York, Gen’l S. & T., 42 Ferguson st., Atlanta, Ga. No. 58 — Division covers Louisville & Nash- ville R. R. and L. H. & St. L. Ry. S. E. Bryant, Gen’l Chairman, 408 Fourth Na. tional Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn.; H. Moneypenny, Gen’l S. & T., 408 4th Nat Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn. No. 59— Division covers the Southern, North- ern Alabama and Danville & Western Railroads. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. H. G. Alexander, Gen’l Chairman, 122 Tate st., Greensboro, N. C.; J. W. Bur- gess, Gen’l S. & T., 223 Ninth st, S. W., Charlottesville, Va. No. 60, WASHINGTON, D. C— Meets 2d Wednesday of each month at 8 p. m., at Sll E st., N. W., Washington, D. C» J. T. McKean, Chief Tel., 220 V st., N. E., Washington, D. C.; J. Webb Richman, S. & T., 3726 Northampton st., Chevychase, Washington, D. C. No. 61 — Division covers Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway System. J. C. High, Gen’l Chairman, 312 Drexel Bank Bldg., Chicago, 111.; W. L. Braun, Ass’t Gen’l Chairman, G. C. & S. F. Lines, Milano, Texas; V. A. Gendron, Gen’l Sec. & Treas., 312 Drexel Bank Bldg., Chicago, 111. No. 62 — Division covers the Queen & Cres- cent Route (North). W. E. Hines, Gen’l Chairman, Danville, Ky.; E. W. Shadoan, Gen’l S. & T., 634 Jackson st., George- town, Ky. No. 63 — Division covers A. & W. P. and W. of A. R. R. E. Oates, Gen’l Chafrman, 312 Columbus st., Montgomery, Ala.; J. A. Kirkland, G. S. & T., 51 Jackson st., New- nan, Ga. No. 64 — Division covers Gulf & Ship Island and Miss. Central R. R. R, F. Bass, Gen’l Chairman, Collins, Miss.; M. B. Henry, G. S. & T., Pinola, Miss. No. 65 — Kansas City Terminal. Meets 2nd and 4th Saturdays each month at 8 p. m., Room 304 Curtice bldg., 813 Walnut, Kan- sas City, Mo. C. H. Allen, Gen’l Chair- man, 2445 Harrison ave., Kansas City Mo.; Frank E. Hancock, Acting Gen’t S. & T., 2038 Jefferson st., Kansas City, Mo. No. 66 — Division covers Indianapolis Union & Belt Railway Companies. Wm. M. Lind- ley, Gen’l Chairman, 2209 N. Delaware st., Indianapolis, Ind.; E. J. Payne, G. S. & T., 54 Raymond st.. Indianapolis, Ind. Digitized by Google

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142 The Railroad Telegrapher. No. 67 — Division covers Union Terminal of Dallas. T. B. Whitis, Gen’l Chairman, Route No. 8, Box 399, Dallas, Tex.; Guy A. Littlepage, G. S. & T., 1405 First ave., Dallas, T$x. No. 68— Division covers Lehigh & New Eng* land Railroad. C. J. Fehr, Gen’l Chair- man, Box 466. Pen Argyle, Pa.; J. R, Cow- ling, G. S. & T.. Wind Gap, Pa. No. 69 — Division covers the Queen & Cres- cent Route (South). Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. A. Berry, Gen’l Chair- man, Gibbsland, La.; W. A. Stennett, G. S. & T., Lake, Miss. No. 70— Division covers Great Northern Railway System. O. P. Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, 355 Shubert bldg., St. Paul, Minn.; A. O. Olsen, Gen'l S. & T., 355 Shubert bldg., St. Paul, Minn. No. 71 — Division covers the Minneapolis & St. Louis Ry. A. L. Gardner, Gen’l Chair- man, Steamboat Rock, Iowa; J. C. Sand- mier, Gen’l S. & T., Waukee, Iowa. No. 72— Division covers Southern Pacific Ry., Atlantic System. A. E. Leisure, Gen’l Chairman, No. 622 Euclid Ave., Houston, Texas; W. J. Haddon, Gen’l S. & T., 232 Stafford st, San Antonio, Tex. No. 73, CHATTANOOGA, TENN.-A. C. Craighead, Chief Telegrapher, 1013 James bldg., Chattanooga, Tenn.; Wilson Hanson, S. & T., 504 Temple Court Bldg., Chat- tanooga, Tenn. No. 74 — Division covers Hudson & Manhat- tan R. R. H. G. Phelps, Gen’l Chairman, 1736 Lexington ave., New York, N. Y.; J. V. Sheevers, Gen’l S. & T., 468 W. 58th st.. New York, N. Y. No 75 — Division covers Ft. Smith & West- ern Ry. J. W. Mayden, Gen’l Chairman, Weleetka, Okla.; F. L. Thurman, Gen’l S. A T., Dustin, Okla. No. 76— Division covers Chicago & North- western R. R. System; Pierre, Rapid City & Northwestern Ry.; Wyoming & North- western Ry. Meets subject to call of Gen- eral or Local Chairman. E. J. Thomas, Gen’l Chairman, Suite 547-548 Webster bldg., 327 S. LaSalle st., Chicago, 111.; R. B. Boylngton, Gen’l S. A T., Suite 547-648 Webster bldg., 327 S. LaSalle st., Chicago. 111. Chicago Terminal Levermen meet third Tuesday of each month at 10 a. m. and 8 p. m., 180 West Washington st., Chi- cago, 111. No. 78— OLEAN, N. Y.— G. E. Johnson, Chief Telegrapher, 203 Mechanic st., Smethport, Pa. J. C. Alden, S. & T.. . Angelica, N. Y. No. 79 — Division covers Denver & Salt Lake R. R. F. W. Wessel, General Chairman, Fraser, Colo.; A. E. Woodworth, G. 6. & T., Tolland, Colo. No. 8 O-^Di vision covers the Gulf, Mobile & Northern Ry. H. C. Wilson, Gen’l Chair- man, Houston, Miss.; H. C. Hughes, Gen’l S. & T., New Augusta, Miss. No. 81 — Division covers Boston, Revere Beach & Lynn R. R. Wm. J. O’Connell. Gen’l Chairman, 376 Frankfort st.. Blast Boston, Mass.; C. N. Emerson, Gen’l S. & T. , 176 Leyden st., East Boston. Mass. No. 82 — Division covers Western Maryland Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. K. H. Stover, Gen'l Chairman, Beryl, W. Va.; D. O. Martin, Gen’l S. & T., Hampstead, Md. No. 83 — Division covers the Bangor & Aroo- * stook Raijroad Systems. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. G. R. Lllley, Gen'l Chairman, Sherman Sta., Me.; J. L. Rob- bins, Gen’l S. & T., Grindstone, Me. No. 88 — Division covers the Texas & Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. J. P. Abney, Gen*l Chair- man, Weatherford, Tex.; W. A. Canafax, Gen’l S. & T., Weatherford, Tex. No. 91, CHICAGO, ILL.— Meets 1st Saturday of each month at 8:15 p. m.. In Hall 912, Masonic Temple, cor. Randolph and State sts., Chicago, 111. G. S. Nafe, Chief Tel, 521 Tremont st., Chicago, 111.; B. F. Rob- erts, S. & T., 6317 Greenwood ave., Chi- cago, 111. * No. 92 — Division covers the Buffalo, Roches- ter & Pittsburg Railway System. Meets subject to the call of Chairman. E. H. Eastman, Gen’l Chairman, 632 Wood ave.. Du Bois, Pa.; G. H. Miller, G. S. & T., 1000 E. Mahoning st., Punxsutawney, Pa. No. 96— Division covers Chicago Great West- ern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. A. L. Coleman, Gen’l Chair- man, 550 Freeman ave., Kansas City, Kan.; G. A. Ott, Gen’l S. & T.. Box 88, Deerfield, RL No. 99, COBALT, ONT.— Covers Temiskam- ing & Northern Ontario Ry. Meets on call of Gen’l Chairman. R. Richardson, Chief Tel., Timmins, Ont.; R. Workman, Gen’l Chairman, North Bay, Ont.; J. A. Peikie. S. & T.. North Bay, Ont. No. 108, ADDISON, N. Y.— Meets subject to call of Chief Telegrapher. Lw L. Lerch, Chief Tel., Knoxville, Pa.; E. C. Cole. S & T., Westfield. Pa. Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 143 No. Ill— Division covers Los Angeles & Salt Lake R. R. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. H. M. Hearn. Gen’l Chairman, Room 227, O. S. L. Station, Salt Lake City, Utah. W. D. McGee, Gen’l S. & T., 3493 Eagle st., Los Angeles, Cal. No. 113— Division covers the Ulster & Dela- ware System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. G. C. Hedges, Gen’l Chairman, Mt Pleasant, N. Y.; G. E. Griffin, G. S. & T., Halcottville, N. Y- No. 114— ANNAPOLIS ROYAL, N. S.— H. A. Jacques, Chief Tel., Middleton, N. S.,* Stan- ley Tavener, S. & T„ Tupperville, Anna Co., N. S. No. 115— Division covers Quebec Ry., Light A Power Co.'s Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. E. Ricliard, Chairman, 199a Crown st., Quebec, Quo.; J. E. Potvin, S. A T., Giffard, Quebec, Can. No. 116— Division covers the Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic Railway System. Meets M Sunday of February, April, June, Au- gust. October and December, in place des- ignated by Gen’l Chairman. F. M. Still- man, Gen’l Chairman, Seney, Mich.; C. W. Danielson, Gen’l S. & T., Chassell, Mich. No. 118— Division covers Kanawha & Michi- gan Railway System. A. P. Hines, Gen’l Chairman, R. F. D. 4, Glouster, Ohio; R. M. Henderson, Gen’l S. & T., 839 South st., Toledo, Ohio. No. 119— Division covers the Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste. Marie Railway System. G. W. Lewis, Gen’l Chairman, 2921 Chicago ave.. Minneapolis, Minn.; F. C. Paine, Gen’l S. & T., Ersklne, Minn. No. 120 — Division covers Lake Erie & West- ern Railway System. J. M. Morrow, Gen’l Chairman, 1419 Commerce ave., Indianap- olis, Ind.; M. A. Steckel, Gen’l S. & T., Atlanta, Ind. No. 124— Division covers Lehigh Valley Rail- way System. C. W. Leh, Gen’l Chairman, 39 N. West, Allentown, Pa.; M. M. Crane, Gen’l S. & T., 159 E. North st., Geneva, N. Y. No. 125— Division covers Richmond, Freder- icksburg & Potomac Railway System. Meets at 8 p. m., the 2d Friday of each month, at Fredericksburg, Va. Z. Talbot, Gen’l Chairman, R. F. D. 4, Alexandria, Va.; J. C. Farmer, Gen’l S. & T., 712 Main st, Fredericksburg, Va. No. 126— Division covers Chicago, Rock Is- land & Pacific Railway System. W. F. Kay, Gen’l Chairman, Room 1, 304 W. 63d st., Chicago, 111.; A. A. Dickens, Vice- Chairman, Jerlco, Tex.; W. H. Dunnam, Gei H S. & T.. Room 1, 304 W. 63rd st., Chicago, m. No. 127, VIRGINIA, MINN.— Meets second Sunday each month at 2 p. m.. Commu- nity Hall, Alborn, Minn. T. A. Clark, Chief Tel., Forbes, Minn.; L. J. Brousseau, S. & T., Lock Box 14, Burnett, Minn. No. 130 — Division covers Chicago, Burling- ton & Quincy Railroad System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. W. F. Denton, Gen’l Chairman, Sterling, Neb.; E. F. Todd, Ass’t Gen’l Chairman, Sandwich, 111.; J. H. Rogers, Gen’l S. & T., 1505 Market st., La Crosse, Wis. No. 131, TRING JUNCTION, QUE.— A. Bois, Chief Tel., Thetford Mines, Que.; J. E. Marcoux, S. & T., Broughton Sta., Que. No. 133. GLACE BAY, N. S. — A. Ferguson, Chief Tel., Mira Gut, N. S.; C. H. Dow, S. & T., P. O. Box 4, Bridgeport. N. S. No. 137— Division covers El Paso & South- western Railway System. C. M. Arm- strong, G. C. and G. S. & T., Vaughn, N. Mex.; A. T. Rummel, Ass’t Gen’l Chair- man, Osborn, via Naco, Ariz. No. 140 — Division covers Maine Central Rail- road System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. E. J. Hayes, Gen’l Chairman, Leeds Junction, Me.; H. N. Bates, Gen’l S. & T., Gardiner, Me. No. 141 — Division covers San Antonio & Aransas Pass Railroad System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. H. H. Hepler, Acting Gen’l Chairman, Shiner, Tex.; R. O. Little, Gen’l S. & T., Box 305, Wallis, Tex. No. 142 — Division covers the Green Bay & Western Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. H. R. Olson, Gen’l Chairman, Sturgeon Bay, Wis.; L. P. Cur- ran, Gen’l S. & T., Winona, Minn. No. 144 — Division covers the Trinity & Brazos Valley Railway System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. J. C. Yancey, Gen’l Chairman, Cooledge, Tex; N. B. Anderson, Acting Gen’l S. & T., Tomball, Tex. No. 145 — Division covers the Ft. W. & D. C. Ry. System. G. C. Webster, Gen’l Chair- man, Box 652, Dalhart, Tex,; S. L. Green- wood, G. S. & T., Box 193, Bowie, Tex. No. 146 — Division covers the Atlanta, Bir- mingham & Atlantic Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. Owen D. Gorman, Gen’l Chairman, Mauk, Ga.; C. A. Pye, Gen’l S. & T., Ideal, Ga. No. 147 — Division covers the Norfolk South- ern Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. E. S. Weeks, Gen’l Chair- man, Tuscarora, N. C. ; Miss S. D. Taylor. Gen’l S. & T., Wilson, N. C. Digitized by Google

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144 The Railroad Telegrapher. No. 148— Division covers Lehigh & Hudson River Ry. J. S. Lawrence, Gen’l Chair- man, Chester, N. Y.; Geo. S. Parry, Gen’l S. & T., Buttzville, N. J. No. 150 — Division covers Colorado and South- ern R. R. and Denver Union Terminal Rufus C. Bonney, Gen'l Chairman, Box 54, Boulder, Colo.; James Muir, Gen’l Chair- man Denver Union Terminal, 809% 15th st., Denver, Colo.; Wm. McGrath, Gen’l S. & T., 836 E. 20th ave., Denver, Colo. No. 153— Division covers the Western Pacific Ry. V. W. Breeding, Gen’l Chairman, 770 Eleventh st., Oakland, Cal.; H. B. Mar- shall, Gen'l S. & T., Gerlach, Nev. No. 155, HAMILTON. ONT.— Covers Toronto. Hamilton & Buffalo Ry. Meets 2d Sunday of each month at 3:30 p. m., in I. O. O. F. Hall. Temple bldg.. Gore st., Hamilton, Ont. R. P. Nevillis, Chief Tel., 221 Robinson st., Hamilton, Ont.; E. D. Armstrong, S. & T., 253 Caroline st., S. Hamilton, Ont. No. 156, BOSTON, MASS.— Meets In Rath- bone Hall, 694 Washington st., Boston, Mass., 3d Thursday each month, 1 p. m. to 5 p. m. Robert H. Buxton, Chief Tel., 8 Dresden st., Jamaica Plain, Boston, Mass.; W. E. Trussell, S. & T., 28 Lath- rop st., Newtonville, Mass. No. 157— Division covers the Rutland Ry. Meets 3d Friday each month, Bard well Hotel, Rutland, Vt. H. R. Clarke, Gen’l Chairman, East Dorset, Vt. E. V. Page, Gen’l S. & T.. Chatham, N. Y. No. 168— Division covers the Panama Ry. A. V. Losea, Gen’l Chairman, Box 17, Pedro Miguel, Canal Zone; W. L. Scofield, G. S. & T., Pedro Miguel, Canal Zone. No. 160 — Division covers the Florida East Coast Ry. A. F. Bauer, Gen’l Chairman, 226 Central ave., Miami, Fla.; J. F. Hol- land, Gen’l S. & T., East Palatka, Fla. No. 161— Division covers the O. W. Ry. and N. Co. J. V. Mitchell, Gen’l Chairman, Lillian Apts., 381% Sixth st., Portland, Ore.; O. R. McNaoo, G. S. & T., 543% Kerby st., Portland, Ore. No. 163 — Division covers the K. C. *M. & O. Ry. K. C. Pankhurst, Gen’l Chairman, Schulte, Kan.; D. O. Kennedy, Gen’l S. & T., Clinton. Okla. No. 164 — Division covers the Ann Arbor R. R. H. J. Werkman, Gen’l Chairman, Box 69, Frankfort, Mich.; F. E. Gum, G. S. & T., 3111 Erie st., Toledo, Ohio. No. 165 — Division covers the Northwestern Pacific Ry. P. G. Sanborn, Gen’l Chair- man, 25 Bonita ave., Sausalito, Cal.; L. E. Green, Gen’l S. & T., Ross, Cal. No. 166 — Division covers the Gulf Coast Lines, New Iberia & Northern and Houston Belt & Terminal Railroads. Meets Labor Temple, Houston, Tex., subject to call of General Chairman. D. E. Young, Gen’l Chairman, Box 396, Eunice, La.; J. H. Mc- Lane, G. S. & T., Box “E,” La Feria, Tex No. 167 — Division covers the Georgia & Flor- ida Ry. A. S. Wright, Gen’l Chairman, Ray City, Ga.; D. F. Rush, Gen’l S. & T., Hazelhurst, Ga. No. 168 — Division covers the C. & A. Ry. E. E. Gents, Gen’l Chairman, Braidwood, 111.; Thos. Riley, Gen’l S. & T., Atlanta, I1L No. 171 — Division covers Central Vermont Ry. H. J. Gibbs, Gen’l Chairman. Yantic, Conn.; L. J. Mannie, Gen’l S. & T., St. Alexander Sta., Qde. No. 172 — Division covers the Oregon Short Line Ry. J. St ice, Gen’l Chairman, Poca- tello, Idaho; S. B. Summers, Gen’l S. & T., Roy, Utah. No. 173 — Division covers the T. & O. C. and Z. & W. R. R. F. H. Simon, Gen’l Chair- man, Raymond, Ohio; C. B. Moore, Gen'l Chairman, Z. & W. R. R., SatiUo, Ohio; W. T. Cox, Gen’l S. & T., 1061 Falmwood ave., Toledo, Ohio. No. 174 — Division covers the Missouri, Okla- homa & Gulf Ry. W. C. Mills, Gen’l Chair- man, 402 East Side blvd., Muskogee, Okla.: W. I. Williams, Gen’d S. & T., 511 Denison st., Muskogee, Okla. No. 175 — Division covers the Carolina. Clinchfleld & Ohio Ry. A. R. Beam, Gen’l Chairman, Forest City, N. C.; C. G. Tay- lor, Gen’l S. & T., Box 235, Dante, Va. No. 177 — Division covers the St. Louis, San Francisco & Texas Ry. R. L. Beal. Jr.. Gen’l Chairman, 1310 N. Blvd., Ft. Worth, Tex.; T. C. Kelly, G. S. & T., Box 410, Menard, Tex. No. 178 — Division covers Tennessee Central Railroad. O. B. Cleveland, Gen’l Chair- man, Lebanon, Tenn.; E. W. Eatherly, Gen’l S. & T., Lebanon, Tenn. No. 179 — Division covers New Orleans Great Northern R. R. B. Donald, Geh’l Chair- man, Monticello, Miss.; F. P. Barron, Gen’l S. & T., Georgetown, Miss. No. 180 — Division covers Chicago, Terre Haute and Southern Ry. J. R. Powell, Gen’l Chairman, Vicksburg, Ind.; W. P- Hyslop, Gen’l S. & T., 637 East 16th st.. Bedford, Ind. No. 181— Division covers Kentucky & Indiana Terminal R. R. Geo. E. Diehl, Gen’l Chair- man. 1606 Main st.. New Albany, Ind.; W. L. Kilcourse, Gen’l S. & T., 1235 South 17tb st., Louisville, Ky. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 145 No. 1S2 — Division covers Missouri & North Arkansas R. R. S?. E. Brasfleld, Acting Gen'l Chairman and G. S. & T., Searcy, Ark. No. 183— Division covers Louisiana Railway & Navigation Co. E. E. Latil, Gen’l Chair* man, 7 Wickliffe Apts., Baton Rouge, La.; L J. Reynolds, G. S. & T., 609 Cotton st., Shreveport, Lar. No. 184 — Division covers Spokane, Portland & Seattle System. L. H. Freeland, Acting Gen’l Chairman, Washou gal. Wash.; J. W. Beckon, Gen’l S. & T., Carson, Wash. No. 185 — Division covers Georgia, Florida & Alabama Ry. J. W. Keen, Gen’l Chairman, Benevolence, Ga.; J. F. Stephens, Gen’l S. & T., Havana, Fla. TWIN CITY TELEGRAPHERS’ CLUB — Regular meetings 2d and 4th Monday eve- nings of each month. Moose Hall, 13-15 East 6th st., St. Paul, Minn. G. W. Lewis, Pres., 2921 Chicago ave., Minneapolis, Minn.; TL E. Frye, S. & T., 626 WaTren st., St. Paul. Minn. CREAM CITY TELEGRAPHERS’ CLUB— Meets the 2d Tuesday of each month in Film Operators’ Hall, 226 Thld st., Mil- waukee, Wis. W. T. Hpulehen, Pres., 465 Madison st., Milwaukee/ Wis.; R. R. J. Armstrong, S. & T., 617 St. Paul ave., Milwaukee. Wis. TOPEKA O. R. T. CLUB— Meets the 1st Thursday after the loth of each month in the Chamber of Commerce, Topeka, Kan. E. S. Slrois, President, 1807 West st., To- peka, Kan.; R. D. Stover, Vice-President, 307 Quinton blvd., Topeka, Kan.; G. M. Merritt, Secretary, 300 Orchard st., To- peka, . Kan. ; W. V. Claybourn, Treasurer, 325 Harrison st., Topeka, Kan. PRETZEL CITY TELEGRAPHERS' CLUB OP FREEPORT, ILL.— Meets 3d Wednes- day of each month at Ladies and Knights of Security Hall, 107 Stephenson at., Free- port, HI. P. H. Murphy, Pres., 145 Dela- ware st., Freeport, 111.; H. B. Kiester, S. & T., 60 Second st., Freeport, 111. CORT CLUB (Chicago O. R. T. Club)— Meets 1st Saturday of each month in Room 912, .Masonic Temple. E. J. Thomas, Pres., 327 S. La Salle st., Chicago, 111.; C. L. Craig, S. & T., 817 W. 64th st., Chicago, 111. DE3 MOINES O. R. T. CLUB— Meets in Assembly Room, Kirkwood Hotel, Des Moines, Iowa, subject to call of President. E. Bylander, Pres., 1227 E. 18th st., Des Moines, Iowa; S. S. Price, S. & T., Grimes, Iowa. CEDAR RAPIDS O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 8 p. m., the 3rd Friday of each month at Room 12, 2d floor, Dows bldg., cor. 2d ave. and 2d st.. Cedar Rapids, Iowa^ F. E. Conover, Pres., Low Moor, Iowa; J. L. Halpin, S. & T., 512 South Fourteenth st., Cedar Rapids, Iowa. LITTLE ROCK O. R. T. CLUB— Meets sub- ject to call of S. & T. C. C. Jacklin, Pres., Room 224, Union Station, Little Rock, Ark.; H. W. Gibbs, S. & T., 516 E. Eighth st.. Little Rock, Ark. THE PANHOMA TELEGRAPHERS’ CLUB — Meets Saturday evening following the 21st of each month In Assembly Room, 2d floor City Hall, El Reno, Okla. R. S. Taylor, Pres., Gracemont, Okla.; J. D. Goodfellow, Vice-Pres., care Relay Office, El Reno, Okla.; W. R. Wilday, S. & T., 520 N. Durland st., Oklahoma, Okla. EVANSVILLE O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 3d Sunday of each month. L. E. Crandall, Pres., Chrisney, Ind. ; McCleary, S. & T., 712 Mulberry st., Evansville, Ind. THE HOOSIER O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 4th Thursday each month at 8 p. m., Room 109, Oneida Hotel, Indianapolis, Ind. W. M. Lindley, Pres., 2209 N. Delaware st., Indianapolis, Ind.; W. G. Brenneman, S. & T., 2327 Prospect st., Indianapolis, Ind. THE KANSAS CITY RAILROAD TELEG- RAPHERS’ CLUB— Meets subject to call of President. M. Williams, Pres., 2115 Walnut st., Kansas City, Kan. THE FORT PITT TELEGRAPHERS’ CLUB OF PITTSBURG— Meets subject to call of Secretary. H. K. Klingesmith, Pres., 124 Suburban ave., Beech view, Pittsburg, Pa. THE HOUSTON O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Thursday night of each month, Hotel Cot- ton, cor. Franklin st. and Captioi ave., Houston, Tex. Chas. C. Webner, Pres., 425 Mason bldg., Houston, Tex.; E. B. Hill, Sec’y, 1027 Yale st., Houston, Tex. THE DU-O. R. T. CLUB OF DURAND, MICH. — Meets 1st Thursday each month in I. O. O. F. Hall, Durand, Mich. A. E. McNamara, Pres., Drayton Plain, Mich.; H. F. Link, S. & T., Lansing, Mich. THE C. O. O. R. T. CLUB (Co-operative O. R. T. Club) — Meets 8 p. m., 1st Friday of each month in Red Men’s Hall, South Bend, Ind. O. O. Replogie, Pres., 631 East Bronson st., South Bend, Ind.; D. A. Crum, S. & T., 817 Lindsey st., South Bend, Ind. Digitized by C-ooQle

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146 The Railroad Telegrapher. THE CHICAGO HEIGHTS TELEGRA- PITERS' CLUB — <Meet8 9:30 a. m., 2d Sun- day of each month at Chicago Heights, 111., in Trades and Labor Council Hall. J. Welles Begbie, Pres., in care Room 736 McCormick bldg., Chicago, 111.; J. C. Mar- ceau, S. & T., St. Anne, 111. THE SPRINGFIELD O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Saturday night of eaoh month at St. Nicholas Hotel, Springfield, 111. W. Stone, Pres., -Marine, 111.; W. R. Endi- cott, S. & T.f 113 E. Jefferson st., Spring- field, Bl. THE GOLDEN RULE TELEGRAPHERS' CLUB — Meets 7 p. m., 3d Tuesday of each month at Crowe Hall, corner Broadway and Seeger ave., Toledo, Ohio. Geo. D. Walker, Pres., 1414 Milbura ave., Toledo, Ohio; R. R. Hudson, S. & T., 332 South st., Toledo, Ohio. THE MONUMENTAL O. R. T. CLUB— Meets monthly in Baltimore, Md., subjeet to call of President. W. R. Johnson, Pres., 3743 Morley st., Baltimore, Md.; W. M. Shawen, Sec’y, 3637 Roland ave., Balti- more, Md. THE STATEN ISLAND O. R. T. CLUR- Meets 4th Thursday each month. 8 p. m., at the Cherokee Club, No. 12 Cross st., Stapleton, S. I., N. T. D. B. McMullen, Pres., 8 Woodland ave., Cranford, N. J. P. Tully, S. & T., 276 Delaware ave., • Dongan Hills, N. Y. KEYSTONE O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 7:30 p. m., 1st Monday of each month at Chandlers Hall, corner of 71st st. and Cot- tage Grove ave., Chicago, 111. L. B. Han- der, Pres., 6362 Ellis ave., Chicago, IlL; R. D. Handschy, S. & T., 7630 Lafayette ave., Chicago, 111. TRI-CITY O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Sunday of each month, 2 p. m., at Odd Fellows Hall, 508 1/3 Brady st, Davenport la. H. E. McKay, Pres., 402 E. 14th st. Dav- enport, la.; W. Giorfleld, Vlce-Prea., 1620 Oth st, Rock Island, Rl.; J. L. Price, Sec’y- Treas., P. O. Box 403, Rock Island, IlL YELLOWSTONE O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Saturday evening each month at 8 p. m.. Christian Science bldg., Glendive, Mont W. G. Mapes, Pres., Glendive, Mont; H. L. Hitchcock, Sec’y and Treas., Miles City, Mont. Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 147 General Committee Directory on Railroads Covered, by Local Divisions Boston St Albany Railway — M. J. Walsh, Gen’l Chairman, 15 Moseley ave., Merrick, Mass.; Geo. P. Alrutz, Secretary General Committee, 16 Oakdale ave., Westfield, Mass. Buffalo & Susquehanna R. R. — F. O. John- son, Gen'l Chairman, Costello, Pa. Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Ry. — R. E. John- son, Gen'l Chairman, Jerseyville, HI.; H. C. LcMasters, Secretary General Commit- tee, Bath, 111. Denver Union Terminal — James Muir, Chair- man, 809% 15th st., Denver, Colo. Dominion Atlantic Ry. — O. C. Jones, Gen’l Chairman, Digby, N. S. Duluth, Missabe St Northern Railway— W. W. Woodward, Gen’l Chairman, Hlbblng, Minn. Elgin, Joliet Sc Eastern Ry. — W H.. DeLong, Secretary General Committee, 18 Wood st., Chicago. Long Island Railroad — M. O. Howell, Gen'l Chairman, Glen Head, N. Y.; G. D. Carnes, Asst. Gen'l Chairman, Syosset, N. Y.; K Frank Webb, Secretary General Commit- tee, 23 Amherst ave., Jamaica, N. Y. Pittsburgh & Lake Erie R. R.— T. H. Alex- ander, Gen’l Chairman, 1229 4th ave., Coraopolis, Pa. Quebec Central Ry. — J. P. Dugal, Gen’l Chairman, Robertson, Que. Toledo, St. Louis & Western Ry. — H. S. Wal- ters, Gen’l Chairman, 321 EL 6th st., Marlon, Ind.; H. A. Carmichael, Secretary General Committee, 226 3rd st., Charleston, 111. Toronto, Hamilton & Buffalo Ry. — N. C. Burdiek, Vinemount, Ont. Washington Terminal Co. — W. B. Humphrey, Gen'l Chairman, 516 A st., N. E., Apt. 205, Washington, D. C. General Committee Directory on Railroads Covered by Grand Division Apalachicola Northern — H. J. Burke, Gen- eral Chairman, Apalachicola, Fla. Arizona Eastern Railroad — F. M. Medhurst, General Chairman, Solomonville, Arizona. Charlotte Harbor & Northern — C. A. Stew- art, General Chairman, care C. H. & N. Ry., Bradley Junction, Fla. Duluth Sc Iron Range — J. C. Schmid, Gen- eral Chairman, Mesaba, Minn. Detroit Sc Mackinac— A. C. Sutherland, Gen- eral Chairman, Rose City, Mich. Georgia, Florida & Alabama — J. L. Wachob, General Chairman, 209 N. Barcelona st., Atmore, Ala. Illinois Southern — W. J. Pinkley, General Chairman, Ste. Genevieve, Mo. Louisiana & Arkansas — A. L. Barnett, Gen’l Chairman, Minden, La. Midland Valley — F. O. Cawood, General Chairman, Bixby, Okla. Spokane International — W. E. Talmadge, General Chairman, East Port, Idaho. Toledo, Peoria & Western — G. E. Ferree. General Chairman, Hamilton, 111. Digitized by Google

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148 The Railroad Telegrapher. Ladies’ Auxiliary Directory OFFICERS. MRS. KATE E. CARR — Grand President, Box 658, Aberdeen, Wash. MISS CLARA J. BRADY — Grand Secretary- Treasurer, 91 Wood at., Providence, R. I. MISS VIOLET WILLIAMS— First Grand Vice-President, Lupus, Mo. MISS HORTENSE M. DUNCAN— Second Grand Vice-President, Pelham, N. C. MRS. E. MAE WATSON— Third Grand Vice-President, Fernley, Nev. MRS. IRIS U. HENDERSON— Fourth Grand Vice-President, Raith, Ont., Can. BOARD OF DIRECTORS. Mrs. Frances Callis, Chairman, Touisset, Mass. Mrs. Nina Nason, Secretary, North Branch, Minn. Mrs. M. M. Farley, Hallstead, Pa. Mrs. J. H. Williams, Wilson, N. C. Mrs. T. M. Boyd, Oakland, Ore. All correspondence to The Telegrapher should be addressed to C. B. Rawlins, Editor. St. Louis, Mo., so that it will reach him not later than the 5th of the month. Grand Division — Attached membership not confined to any particular railroad or ter- ritory. Mrs. Kate E. Carr, Grand Presi- dent, Box 658, Aberdeen, Wash.; Miss Clara J. Brady, Grand Secretary-Treas- urer, 91 Wood st., Providence, R. I. Division 15 — Covers the Atlantic Coast Line R. R. Meets subject to call of the Presi- dent. Mrs. B. F. Wheeler, President Oviedo, Fla.; Mrs. J. H. Williams, Gen’l S. & T., Wilson, N. C. Division 31 — Covers the Missouri Pacific System. Meeting subject to call of the President. Mrs. Chas. M. Bodie, Presi- dent, Benton, Kan.; Mrs. H. C. Harkins, Gen’l S. & T., Lupus, Mo. Division 35 — Meets 3d Thursday of each month at 2:30 p. m., in Manheim Hall, 433 Westminster st., Providence, R. I.; Mrs. Bertha Haddock, President, 111 Narra- gansett st., Edgewood, Providence, R. I.; Miss Clara J. Brady, Gen’l S. & T., 91 Wood st., Providence, R. I. Division 44 — Meets 2d Saturday of each month at 8 p. m., in Hall No. 2, Fraternity Hall, 22 Harriman ave., Jamaica, N. Y.; Mrs. A. Filby, President, Vandeveer Park Station, Brooklyn, N. Y.; Mrs. C. Aiken. G. S. & T., 99 Lowell ave., Jamaica, N. Y. Division 46 — Covers the Central of Georgia Railway System. Meetings subject to call of the President. Mrs. J. H. Randall, Jr., Gen’l S. & T., Smithville, Ga. Division 49 — Covers Denver & Rio Grande Ry. Mra. Laura B. Johnson, Acting Pres., Parkdale, Colo.; Mrs. Lulu Challis, Acting G. S. & T., Texas Creek, Colo. Division 63 — Covers the Southern Pacific System, G. H. & S; A. Ry. Meetings sub- ject to call of the President. Mrs. J. E. Cowglll, President, San Carlos, Cal.; Mrs. F. E. Waters, Gen’l S. & T.. Ashland, Ore. Division 76 — Covers the Chicago & North W’estern Railway System. Meets upon call of the President. Miss Brna L. Schneider, President, Dousman, Wis. ; Miss Irene O’Cononell, Gen’l S. & T., 207 W. Sixth st., Marshfield, Wis. Local Tacoma — Meets the last Wednesday of each month. Meeting places subject to the discretion of the President. Mrs. Daisy Sherwood, Sixth Avenue Station, Tacoma, Wash.; Mrs. W. S. Grover, Local Secre- tary-Treasurer, Nisqually, Wash. Digitized by L-ooQie

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if VOLUME XXXVII NUMBER 2 1’U III 1(0 ' .1 \|"til >it\ l ' i HI I - M" 1 '> Cijc (Drbcr o( ftailroab tZTelegraptjcrss SUBSokiith >x ri:n i ENTKKIOD AS SK' HtNI'-',lKIZKl> ON o.mu ffr v K \ l : iTTHIt PNDER A . FEBRUARY — - Digitized by

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When addressing our advertisers. please mention Thf. Railroad Telegrapher. 7tJi£a Two Ways of Selling the nwl? Factory Branch House Salesman Agent You OLIVER Typewri^r Factory You The New Way THE OLD WAY: It cost $43 to sell you a typewriter. Rents of offices in many cities, salaries, commissions and other costly practices — each demanded its share. Saves You $43 THE NEW WAY: We ship from til factory to you, eliminating all waste This saves the $43, and it now w to you. A $100 Oliver costs you bi $57. Why waste $43 by buying typ writers the old way? These Facts Will Save You Monej Note that this advertisement is signed by The Oliver Typewriter Company itself. It not the advertisement of a concern offering second hand or rebuilt Olivers of an earlier modi The Oliver Typewriter Company makes only new machines. The old way. as explained above, was wasteful and wrong. So people have welcomed our new econom- ical plan ana our output has multiplied. We offer for $57 the exact machine which formerly sold at $100. This is our Model Nine, the finest type- writer we ever built. It lias the universal keyboard, so any stenographer may turn to it without the slightest hesitation and do better work more easily. And It ha9 dozens of superiorities not found else- where. For Instance, it has far fewer parts. This means longer wear, and naturally few or no repairs. This Ohver Nine Is a 20-year development. If any typewriter is worth $100, it is this splendid model. It is the same machine used by great concerns suen as United States Steel Corporation, Baldwin Lo- comotive Works. National City Bank of New York, Pennsylvania Railroad. Otis Elevator Company and hosts of others. Such concerns demand the best. Yet they are not wasteful. FREE TRIAL Merely clip the coupon below, asking us to send a free trial Oliver. We do not ask a penny down. When the Oliver arrives try It out. Put it to every tq Compare its workmanship. Then, when you are convinced that the Oliver V* Is all we claim, and you prefer it, pay us at the rq of $3 per month. During the free trial, you are not under the est obligation to buy. If you wish to return It. < even refund the out-going transportation charges.; Used typewriters accepted in exchange at a fl valuation. Or. if you would rather know more about our pta! before ordering a free-trial Oliver, check the Ct ^ for our amazing hook, entitled "The High C *t Typewriters — The Reason and the Remedy.” 1 accompany It with our beautifully illustrated < ! describing the Oliver Nine. The Oliver Typewriter 0 1502 Oliver Typewriter Building CHICAGO. ILL. (20.0 THE OLIVER TYPEWRITER COMPANY 1502 Oliver Typewriter Bldg.. Chicago. HI. Qihlp me a new Oliver Nine for five days’ free nsnection. If I keep It, I will pay $57 at the rate of $3 per month. The title to remain In you until fully paid for. My shipping point Is This does not place me under any obligation to buy. If I choose to return the Oliver, I will ship it back at your expense at the end of five days. □Do not send a machine until I order it. Mall Tie your book — "The High Cost of Typewrit- ers— The Reason and the Remedy." your ae luxe catalog and further Information. Name Street Address City State Occupation or Business Was $100 Canadian Price, in Digitized by VjU Now State

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention The Railkoad Teleqrapher. 63 mot Digitized by Signal Shirts Made of Fabrics WARNING: Every Genuine Signal Shirt has this Trade Mark below the collar band* Without this Trade Mark U isn’t a Signal. NO OTHER SHIRT ever measures up to the demands of the man who has once worn a Signal. He has learned how good shirts can be. are in a class by themselves. Perfect in fit and workmanship, made of selected fabrics, they are wash-proof and wear like iron. Ask your dealer to show you the Signal shirt. If he has none in stock send us his name and your size and well see that he gets one for you. hilker-wiechers mfg. co.'* Dept. D1246 Racine, Wis.

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Digitized by Google

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Labor Enters the Political Arena LABOR has, through its officers, decided to enter the political field and will assume a non-partisan attitude in the coming primaries and elections. We are gratified that the Executive Council of the Amer- ican Federation of Labor has recognized the importance and necessity of organized labor taking a decided position in the political arena. Things that have been granted the toilers in the past, after hard-fought battles are now in jeopardy through the vicious attitude taken by many members of our legislative bodies and we are certain that the voters will respond generously to the appeal which Labor has now made to the workers. The Telegrapher has been in favor of this move and openly advo- cated the non-partisan political participation in primaries and elections in order to secure the nomination and election to office of those who are friendly and in accord with the workers and their aspirations. Past President H. B. Perham has been doing yeoman’s duty in this movement through the efforts of the Information Bureau which he has been conducting for the past several months in order to crystallize sentiment in favor of Labor entering the political ring. There are two particular classes of railroad employes who occupy enviable positions so far as mingling with the general public is concerned. The passenger conductor and agents and telegraphers have an opportunity Digitized by VjOOQle

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150 The Rail bo ad Tbdbqbapbbb. to acquaint the traveling public with the views of the workers on the issues that will confront the electorate during the next few months, and it is hoped that they will take advantage of this position. Since Labor has made this momentous decision it is of the utmost importance that each and every member of Union Labor exert his or her influence on those who are not affiliated with Labor in order to secure the active co-operation of all voters who favor the toilers. The following announcement, giving the causes as to why Labor enters the political campaign have been issued by the officers of the American Federation of Labor: Labor's Political Campaign In compliance with the directions of the last convention of the American Federation of Labor and of the December 13, 1919, conference Pf representatives of labor and the farmers' organizations, a three days' conference was held at the Federation headquarters in this city to consider the part which labor should take in the coming campaign, primaries and election.. The following declaration was unanimously adopted: The inherent rights and principles of pur people are threatened. The free institutions of our country are menaced. The ideals of democracy are in danger. The Congress of the United States has tailed to do its duty. It has failed to meet the emergency. It has given encouragement and support to autocratic and reactionary policies. Its dominating thought has been the repression of labor. Every effort to secure remedial and constructive legislation has been strangled. Every appeal for redress has met with subtle and open hostility. The halls of Con- gress have been used by Labor's enemies to foster and spread a vicious propaganda against the efforts of the toilers to exercise their normal and lawful activities for the protection and promotion of their interests and welfare. Labor has appealed for relief in vain. The hour has arrived when those who believe in the maintenance of democratic institutions must marshal their forces in defense of their rights and ideals. It is intolerable that a people who spared no cost to make the world safe for democracy should be forced to submit to any restriction of the glorious liberties inherited from the fpunders of our nation. The perpetuation of our fundamental rights and the enactment of essential constructive legislation demand the election of men, regardless of their political affiliations, who are truly representative of American idbals of liberty. Conscious of its responsibilities, impressed by the grave problems resulting from the great war, the American Federation of Labor at its annual convention in June, 1919, adopted a reconstruction program. This program defined the essential industrial policies and legislative enactments required to establish a full measure of justice and opportunity tor labor. Because of grave emergencies which arose since that convention, it became im- perative that the representatives of organized labor and of farmers should assem- ble and confer for the purpose of safeguarding their rights and liberties as free men and citizens. On December 13, 1919, a conference of representatives of labor and of farmers met in Washington, D. O. This conference expressed "Labor’s Grievance, Protests and Demands." Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Baxlboad Telegrapher. 151 No favorable legislative action upon the recommendation! contained in the American Federation of Labor reconstruction program, or those expressed at the Deoember conference, has been taken by Congress. Instead many Congressmen have endeavored to enact legislation providing for compulsory laboy. Despite the patriotism and sacrifice of the masses of labor of America during the world war, under the guise of anti-sedition laws, the effort has been made to repress free asso- ciation, free speech and free press. Boomed by Congress, ridiculed and misrepresented by many members of both Houses, the American Labor movement finds it necessary to vigorously apply Its king and well-established non-partisan political policy. Confronted by a sucoesslon of hostile Congresses, the American Federation of Labor, In 1906, announced its historic “Bill of Grievances." This was followed by a vigorous and sucoessful non-partisan political campaign. In 1908, 1910, and 1912, the same program was energetically applied. As a result, many of labor’s enemies in Congress were defeated and all of the essential legislation in "labor's Bill of Grievances" of 1906 was enacted. Construction legislation has never been so necessary as at present Never has U been so essential to secure the defeat of Labor's enemies and the election of its blends and supporters. Sinister forces are already aotlvely engaged in efforts to confuse and nullify Labor's political power. Their object Is to divide the labor vote so that the -elec- tion of reactionaries and enemies of Labor will be assured. Unless Labor holds steadfastly to its non-partisan political policy, the enemies of Labor will be suc- cessful in their efforts. Labor cannot. Labor mast not, permit its political strength to be divided in the present crisis. Organised Labor owes allegiance to no political party. It is not partisan to any political party. It is partisan to principles — the principles of freedom, of justice and of democracy. It is the doty of trade unionists, their friends and sympathisers, and all lovers of freedom, Jnstloe and democratic Ideals and Institutions, to unite in defeating those seeking public office who are indifferent or hostile to the people's Interests and the aspirations of Labor. Wherever candidates for reelection have been friendly to Labor's Interests they should be loyally supported. Wherever candidates are hostile or Indifferent to Lebor*B interests, they should be defeated and the nomination and election of trap and tried trade unionists or of assured friends should be secured. Complying with the instructions of the last convention and the Labor and Firmer Conference of December 13, 1919, the American Federation of Labor an- neaaces its determination to apply every legitimate means and all of the power U Ks command to accomplish the defeat of Labor's enemies who aspire for public office^ whether they be candidates for President, for Congress, for State Legisla- tarea, er any other office. The American Federation of Labor calls upon all affiliated and recognised sattonal. International and brotherhood organisations, state federations of labor, mitral labor bodies, local unions, and Labor's friends and sympathisers to unite ttd give loyal support to the non-partisan political campaign now set in motion. This political campaign must begin In the primaries. The record of every aspirant for public office must be thoroughly analyzed, stated in unmistakable language and given the widest possible publicity. Labor's enemies and friends must be definitely known. Te this end the American Federation of Labor has treated the National Non-partisan Political Campaign Committee and it now calls ipon all affiliated and raaegnlead labor organisations to create district and local ffimmlttooi to cooperate with the national committee and oo-ordinate their efforts. Digitized by VjOOQle

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152 The Railroad Telegrapher. The future welfare, the very ability of the trade union movement to carry on its work for humanity depends upon the success of the campaign herewith in- augurated. There can be no hesitancy. There must be no turning aside. The time tor vigorous and determined action is here. Americanism Menaced We pointed out to our readers through the columns of the January Telegrapher the danger to our American freedom and institutions which lurked in the so-called Davey and similar sedition bills, then pending in Congress. The American Federation of Labor through its president, Mr. Samuel (tampers, has taken cognizance of the pernicious and vicious attempt to throttle the Ameri- can citizen under a thin cloak of legislation known as the Anti-Sedition bill. The following appeal has been sent to all piembers of organized labor through their officers, and it is hoped that our members will take immediate steps to ac- quaint their representatives in Congress with their views on this Important legisla- tion: To All Organized Labor: Not only Labor but all other liberty-loving people of the entire United States are facing the greatest conspiracy ever conceived to destroy democratic govern- ment and establish autocratic rule. \ The Sterling-Graham Peace Time Sedition Bill is the menace that should awaken every strong-hearted, loyal citizen to the dangers ahead. Although con- ceived in darkness, and brought suddenly into the light with the intention of enact- ing it into law before the people realized their danger, the anti-sedition bill has been temporarily delayed by the strong protests aroused. It is now in the prov- ince of the citizens of our beloved Republic to defeat this most pernicious measure by sending protest after protest to their respective members of the House of Rep- resentatives and the United States Senate. Among the objects of the Anti-Sedition bill are: To thke away the liberties of the people by placing them under a secret police surveillance more abhorrent than that In any foreign monarchy. To make all correspondence subject to scrutiny, censorship and destruction by the Postofflce Department. To destroy the organized labor movement by making the normal activities of the trade unions sedition. To send to prison any person or group of persons who seek to change the con- stitution of the United States or any federal law. Free speech, free assemblage and free press will be abolished. Discontent could be declared sedition under its provisions. Les majeste, the bulwark of an autocracy, would become popular with those in power. The bill is so filled with hidden meanings that a judge could decide it meant anything he considered necessary to convict a victim. It could be used by a per- sonal enemy to send another, without cause, to prison. In fact, the sedition bill is an instrument of the divine right of kings. Although the greatest supporter of that pernicious fetish has been dragged from his throne Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 153 and made a fugitive from outraged justice, a clique of men in Congress now pro- poses to establish in our country the divine right of kings’ stepchild, sedition. Labor must be up and doing! It must awaken to the great danger facing our people. Every organization, national, state, city central or local, every individual member and sympathizer who loves liberty, should Immediately and repeatedly send protests to their respective representatives and United States Senators at Wash- ington, D. C. The representatives in Congress should be told that the people who won the war in order that their country would remain free cannot permit its po- litical servants to shackle them by such a law. But the sedition bill is not the only bill that seeks to betray the people. There are others that attack the very foundation of the trade union movement and seek to prohibit the normal activities of Labor. Organize committees and meetings of protest! Let the country rai$e its voice so loud that not even a single member of Congress will fall to hear. These are indeed trying times, and if the people do not take heed our beloved democracy will be lost to us. Send in your protests without delay! Fraternally yeura, SAMUEL GOMPERS, President, American Federation of Labor. Attest: PRANK MORRISON, Secretary, American Federation of Labor. Representative W. J. Burke Opposes Anti- Sedition Bill The various anti-sedition bills which have been considered by Congress have brought forth many outbursts against such legislation, and Congressman W. J. Burke of Pennsylvania had the following remarks to make regarding this uncalled for legislation: Mr. Chairman, I desire to say a word in answer to the remark of the gentleman from New York (Mr. Husted), that “if sections 1 and 2 were taken out of the sedition bill, no man with red blood in his veins would dare vote against the bill.*' As a member of organized labor, I want to say that the four railroad brother* hoods and the American Federation of Labor denounce anti-Americanism and an- irchy and are as loyal to this American government as any member of Congress. I want to declare myself, first, as an American citizen who still believes in and reveres the Constitution of the United States; and, second, as an American citizen who believes in the wisdom and the Justice and the divine Inspiration of those greatest of all Americans, the fathers of our country, the creators of American liberty, when they wrote Into that covenant of liberty, the Constitution of the United States, these words: Congress shall make no law • • • abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Such bills as these are an insult to the intelligence and loyalty of the Ameri- can people. There is and there can be no question that the masses of the American people are tor their country first, last, and all the time; (applause) that they would willingly and generously shed their lifeblood in defense of their country. (Applause.) Digitized by Googk

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154 The Railroad Telegrapher. This has been demonstrated beyond all shadow of doubt In the World War just ended, when the noblest youth of America crossed the ocean to bear arms In de- fense of American principles of truth, liberty, and justice; when American families gave up their loved ones with a spirit of patriotism bordering on the divine. In every village, oity, and state of the Union there are broken hearts and saddened homes on account of the ravages of the war, and it is from these homes and the hearts of these people that the strongest cry comes for the survival of democracy in this land. We hear talk of discontent existing in the country, and we actually know there is discontent and unrest But laws such as this will only add fuel to the flames, for I want- to say right here that the discontent existing is a natural discontent brought about by the pro- posal of laws and the enactment of laws which encroached upon the constitutional rights of the people of America. If there is one thing the people of this country love, It is their sense of American freedom; if there is one thing they guard with jealousy, it is their constitutional rights, and the American people are not going to tamely submit to the taking away of those rights. Burdened down with the high cost of living until the wage earner today cannot make ends meet, realizing that an unscrupulous system of profiteering is prevalent in the country, and that nothing is being done to bring the profiteers to justice or to lower the cost of living, the people naturally and rightfully voice their dis- content and disapprovaL According to the press report of the country, during the period of war 17.000 millionaires were created, which means $17,000,000,000 more of private wealth garnered out of a nation's woe and a people's misery. If Congress would turn Its guns upon these newly made millionaires and endeavor to find out just how they made the millions, and let the common people of the nation alone for a little while* I think some of the unrest would disappear, for the people would think that possibly there was some hope of them getting a “square deal." I am opposed to the sedition bill because It Is vicious in character, subtle in meaning, and is one of the most damnable schemes ever perpetrated against a free and liberty-loving people. It is a blot upon the nation. In my opinion. Its sole purpose, its one Intent, is to hold in subjection the working people, to crush labor, to deny tbe common people the right of public speech, the right of public assembly, the right to offer protest against any intolerable political or industrial conditions. (Applause.) — Recent Speech of Senator Capper of Kansas Anent the Excessive Cost of Living Our Greatest Menace Is the Greed of the Profiteers. Mb. Cappeb: Mr. President, I find a great deal to commend in the bill now before us. I am going to support the bill for an Americanization program as pre- sented by tbe Senator from Iowa (Mr. Kenyan). Tbe chief objection at this time, I think, is its demand upon the Public Treasury, but since the Senator from Iowa has greatly reduced tbe appropriation required I think we should at least give it a trial. I think one of the reasons for the high eost of living, with which we are afl deeply eoncerned. is the high cost of government I wish to present to the Senate a telegram I have just received from the Na- tional Wool Growers' Association, which I think is quite UlumtnatlBg as to a phase of the high cost of living problem that deeply concerns the America* people today. I ask that the Secretary may read the telegram which I tad te the flesh. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 166 Thi Pbbsidino Offices: Without objection, the telegram will be read, as suggested. The telegram was read, as follows: Salt Lake City, Utah, January 23, 1920. Senator Arthur Capper, Washington, O. C.: Retail clothing is high, and many people are of the opinion that this high price la due to the price of wool The National Wool Growers’ Association desires that the public shall know exactly what part of the cost of clothing goes to the man who raises the sheep and produces the wool. All-wool three-piece suit of men’s clothing is today retailing from the stores at $50 to $75 for a man weighing 175 pounds. Three and one-half yards of cloth is required to make a suit. The weight of doth for men's clothing ranges all the way from 10 ounces to 18 ounces per yard. The average medium-weight winter suit is made of goods weighing 14 ounoes per yard. At 3% yards per suit, then, the cloth in the entire suit weighs 49 ounces, or slightly over 3 pounds. In the manufacture of worsted all-wool cloth it re- quires 1% pounds of scoured wool to produce 1 pound of cloth; therefore, to make all the cloth in this suit would require 61% ounces of scoured wool, or, say, 62 ounces. Western wool is selling on the Boston market from 70 cents to $2 per scoured pound, depending on the fineness of . the wooL The finer the wool, the higher the prtee. Between the coarsest wool and the finest wool we have a me- dium grade, Known as three-eighths blood. This is a general-purpose wool, suit- able for the mfeufacture of men’s or women's dress goods. This grade of wool h selling in Boston on this date at from $1.25 to $1.26 per scoured pound. As 62 ounces of scoured wool is required to make the entire suit, then the cost of wool in the suit is $6.27. If the suit happens to be made of the very finest Western wool, selling at $2 per scoured pound, instead of the medium grade, then the wool in the entire suit will cost $7.37. Neither of these amounts represents a very large part of the retail price of the suit, but at that the woolgrower did not receive this much for furnishing the wool in the suit, as the wool prices we have used are Boston prices. The woolgrower had to deliver his wool in Boston, paying freight, commission, etc., amounting to 8 or 10 cents per scoured pound, which properly should be deducted to find what the grower actually received out of this' suit. All we ask Is that the public place on the shoulders of our woolgrowers only that por- tion of responsibility for high-priced clothing that properly belongs to them. We are willing to assume that responsibility. (Signed) National Wool Geo webs’ Association. Mb. Gaffer: Mr. President, this statement is of more than ordinary Interest when considered in connection with the latest official report of the national con- ference board, which brings the startling Information that from July 1, 1914, to November, 1919, cost of clothing has increased 135 per cent, though foodstuffs increased only 92 per cent, fuel 48 per cent, rent 38 per cent. Anxiety concerning the continued advance in prices is reported general In American business circles by the Federal Reserve Board’s recent review of business conditions. It may well be. The prevailing high prices are referred to in that report as An “unquestionable menace.” This report virtually admits that excessive profit taking is beginning to menace business itself — to kill demand. Just now the country condemns labor in unsparing terms for Its exactions, but the evidence is overwhelming that the cause of the expensive cost of living is not labor wholly, but profits. It is true that labor demands all It can get that it may live, but big business to a great extent, at any rate, keeps on getting and the helpless consumer pays. After the labor is paid profits mount to unheard-of height*. Digitized by VjOOQle

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156 The Railroad Telegrapher. Gan we doubt that the general public is being sandbagged when we know such facts as these: The net profits of the American Woolen Co., after Federal taxes had been deducted were $2,778,600 in 1914, $5,160,295 in 1915, $8,210,761 in 1916, $15,664,985 in 1917, and $12,324,084 in 1918. All on an invested capital of twenty-two millions. The earnings on its common stock were $10.80 a share in 1915, $27.05 a share in 1916, $47.62 a share in 1917, and this year, according to best Wall Street informer tion, will exceed $100 a share, or more than the stock*s par value. A year ago the watered stock of the American Woolen Co., the chief textile company in the United States, was quoted on the stock exchange at 45. Today it is close to 150, and in recent weeks has been quoted at 156. For the wool that goes into a suit of clothes which sells for $100, the wool grower receives $7.37, says the Wool Growers’ Association. This makes the fin- ished garment cost the consumer more than twelve times the price of the raw material. The price of clothing has made enormous advances and is still advanc- ing notwithstanding the American Woolen Co. cleaned up net profits of 66 per cent in 1917 and 1918 — or $2,000,000 more than the $20,000,000 total of the company's authorized outstanding stock. There can be no real shortage of cotton with a crop of 11,000,000 bales added to 3,600,000 bales left over from 1918, but it is a common occurrence, I am told, for the speculators in the Cotton Exchange to boost the crop's valu^$50, 000,000 in a single day. In one week, during the crop year, they actually increased it one- bait billion dollars. - 'w Said the Monroe (N. C.) Journal a few days ago: Cotton manufacturers are making from 100 per cent up on their In- vestment, and several have not only duplicated their plants in one year but paid a dividend also. Raw material and manufacturing bring the cost of yarn at about 80 omits, selling at $2, or at a profit of 150 per cent The value of a single load of cotton advanced $131.26 at Phoenix, Ariz., a re- cent week while the load was being weighed. To this enormous speculative mar- gin the mills and jobbers add a margin of profit more than ample to meet all con- tingencies. Therefore is it any wonder that sheeting now costs nearly as much a yard as silk used to? A 50 per cent increase in the price of shoes by next summer is predicted by the president of the National Shoe Travelers. The day this prediction appeared another extra dividend was declared by the Central Leather Co. The common stock of this company was rated at 58 a year ago. It is now quoted around 105 and a large issue of new stock has recently been added. While the people con- template going barefoot the Leather Trust walks on velvet made thicker. A year ago it was the war demand for leather that made shoes high. Now it seems to be the peace demand for velvet At a time when shoe manufactures have issued announcements of still higher prices for shoes, the report of one of the great leather corporations shows profits earned of 52 per cent on the stock. The stock of most of such corporations original- ly did not represent strictly, dollar for dollar, the money invested, but a good part of the stock represented earning power. A great deal, or most, of the so-called “water” in security issues stands for what the organizers believed the concern could earn at a fair dividend rate. But 52 per cent is not a fair rate of return on such watered capitalization. As long as unrestricted prices of stocks soar in Wall Street we must be prepared to pay robbery prices. Just now the greatest get-rich-quick game in America is gouging in sugar. It is a mighty sweet and rich business for profit cormorants. The Equalisation Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 157 Board held the refiners down as to price. So in the name of Oreat Britain and France they bought up the Cuban sugar crop and exported it to those countries at a higher figure than the board would allow these men to sell it in the United States. And this government let them do it As a result the increase in the price of sugar will add a billion dollars to the burdens now being borne by the American people. The stock of the Cuba-American Sugar Co. has advanced more than 200 per cent in the last 12 months — probably because of the "sugar short- age." The remarkable rise in its stock quotations indicates it Is near a rich mine of easy money. A year ago the stock of the Crucible Steel Co. was quoted at 52. Today it is quoted at 209, and has recently been as high as 261. Before this oountry entered the war the Crucible Steel Co. never earned a dividend on its watered stock. The quotation shows what the best opinion is of its earning power. Mr. President, while we were sending the boys to France, eating war bread, and conducting all kinds of drives to win the war the United States Steel Corpora- tion made 61,300,000,000 net profit. The price of steel common stock, worthless at the beginning, soars to values of unbelief. We have 4,000,000 homeless people in the United States as a result of the melon cutting in lumber. There has been and is shameless profiteering in that industry, yet weekly advances of 62 to $5 a thousand are not uncommon. Relative to profiteering in lumber, a reliable Kansas lumber dealer writes me: "Ten months ago the wholesale price of the best grade of lath was 65.30. We are selling lath to our trade at 610 a thousand, although by the inclosed new price lists showing lath at a wholesale, lath is now quoted to us at 617.25 and 618.25 a thousand f. o. b. this place. 1 begin to think the only way out is for the public to stop buying. 1 would much sooner lock up and lay off for six months than con- tinue business under present conditions. So 1 think it is up to the government to advise the people to stop buying. The Big Five don’t get all the hogs to slaughter." Here 1b axi increase of nearly 250 per cent in 10 months on the war price of a staple commodity. In shameless and reckless greed the lumber barons now lead the procesion. Mr. President, the market price of the farmer’s live stock has declined nearly 60 per cent, bringing many farmers to the verge of bankruptcy. But the high prices the consumer pays for meat are virtually unchanged. This is particularly true of pork, of which we have a surplus of more than one and a half billion poundB, produced last year, besides large quantities in storage. The Fuel Administration restricted the advance in wages asked for by the striking bituminous coal miners to 14 per cent, because of that per cent the con- sumer would not have to be further taxed for his coal. Notwithstanding this esti- mate, careful y based on facts, Chicago coal dealers, and perhaps others, have since advanced the retail price of coal 60 cents or more a ton. I have a telegram today from Leavenworth, Kan., that the public is being compelled to pay the 14 per cent increase. The income tax returns prove the mine operators get excessive profits. During the recent strike it was shown that miners’ wages in the soft coal field were not excessive. But very little, or no information whatever, was disclosed In regard to the actual profits- of the operators, which still are known only to themselves and the bookkeeper. Mr. President, all the quotations I have referred to conspire to prove that it is profiteering In manufacturers, in the great industrial corporations, that has sandbagged the public, rather than by merchants who deal directly with the con- sumer. It goes behind the retail price. No doubt there is price gouging by seme Digitized by Google

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158 The Kailboad Telbgbapheb. of the retailers, but it is the price of goods when they leave the factory to which the administration's best attention should be first directed. These gigantic cor- porations have become drunk with unconscionable profits extorted from a too compliant public. The outstanding fact is that there is nowhere the slightest indication of any change in the strategy of the great trusts, combines, and in- dustrial corporations in fattening their profits. A thief has only to steal half as much property these days to commit grand larceny, but it seems a profiteer cor- poration may take all it can get from the people and then make them pay its war taxes besides. Prosecution of 179 profiteers in 18 states has been started by the Department of Justice since a penalty was added to the Lever Act. In three cases fines and Jail sentences have been imposed. Of these victims of governmental harshness one was fined $100 and given a brief stay behind the bars, another was fined $260 and given three months, and the third had a fine of $5,000 and five months in jail administered to him. These three martyrs were hoarders. Jlr. President, the Department of Justice is to be highly commended for its efforts to stamp out Bolshevism. It took the government Secret Service Just a few weeks to round up and put in prison 4,500 Reds. And when it comes to profiteers, the Reds are in a pitiful minority. I am glad to see it is now proposed to have the Secret Service raid the profiteers, the most potent promoters of anarchy we have. If this raid is prosecuted with vigor and backed up by the imprisonment of profit extortioners it will have a most wholesome and salutary result We deport the Reds, and I heartily approve the government's efforts in that direction; but our chief trouble makers, the price gougers, we still let run wild. If we were to put half as many profiteers in jail it seems to me we should he in far less danger of contracting the red flu of Bolshevism. Our greatest present menace is anarchistic greed here at home. For three years we have permitted it to do its worst to the devoted people who are the backbone of the nation, and who must be its ever-present help in time of trouble. In that time we have made 18,000 brand-new millionaires. We now must stop this thing soon or be prepared to take the consequences, not knowing just what those consequences may be. We seem to be bartering not only our own peace of mind but all our fine prospects for bettering our condition or serving mankind for this miserable mess of pottage. And probably no other nation ever had so unparalleled an opportunity. I am constantly surprised that so little account is taken of the wrath that is stir- ring among the people at this continuous and widespread plundering. Washington must soon show it has the nerve to deal with these wreckers or must itself reckon with the people. Our government must prove to them its adequacy to govern, must prove worthy of its stewardship, or lose their confidence and respect. Mr. Presi- dent, I would not have you understand that I have no faith in the wisdom and intelligence of the people. It is just because I have this trust in them that I say the time has come for Washington to prove its ability to deal with this destructive eviL Profiteering, to be sure, is not responsible for all our price inflation, but it plainly is responsible for very much of it, and is so greatly aggravating our strained economic situation that it is becoming the last straw to the people’s forbearance. The hard way, the expensive way, the dangerous way to reach our readjustment is to let greed break down business, throw industry out of gear, men out of em- ployment, and bring on hard times, while it continues to play its selfish, short* sighted game of stave-out and freeze-out with the people. The saner way would seem to be to do what is in our power to do, to meet and conquer these dangerous exploiters as an intelligent and forceful people should. I earnestly urge as a remedy to meet this emergency an active prosecution of Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 159 profiteers followed by their imprisonment, and a law requiring every manufacturer to attaeh to every article he produces the exact price he receive for it. 1 am con- fident nothing else will so quickly reduce and stabilize prices and restore business and industry to a safe and sane basis. 1 also urge drastic reduotion in govern- ment expenditures, prompt enactment by Congress of the measures for strict regulation of the packing industry, and Federal supervision of cold-storage business The people can help themselves, too, if they will organize to boycott the profit hogs by refusing to buy goods offered at extortionate prices. Unless we make a real effort to control this orgy of greed we shall continue to drift toward the rocks and no one can foretell what looked-for or unlooked-for disaster may occur. United States Railroad Administration Washington, December 10, 1919. ADDENDUM NO. 2 TO SUPPLEMENT NO. 13 TO GENERAL, ORDER NO. 27. Questions have arisen on some of the railroads in Federal operation with re- spect (o adjustment of rates of pay and working conditions of agents at small non- telegraph stations,, which have not been settled between the Federal managers and the committee of employes, and have been appealed in accordance with the pro vi- sions of the third paragraph of section (c), Article IV, Supplement No. 13 to Gen- eral Order No. 27. Section (c). Article IV, Supplement No. 13, excludes from the application of that supplement— “ Agents whose duties are supervisory and who do not perform routine office work, nor the small non-telegraph stations (except where they are now included in agreements) which, on account of the varying character and extent of their work and responsibilities, cannot be intelligently treated as a class." and further provides that — “The Federal manager on each railroad is hereby Instructed to consider the individual cases of the smaller non-telegraph stations, or stations paid on a commission basis or on a combination of salary and commission, both as to compensation and working conditions, with committees of em- ployes, and where agreement can be reached are authorized to put the same into efjfeot. “In case of disagreement, either as to compensation and or working conditions, or as to whether a station comes properly under the terms of this article, the exact points of such disagreement shall be reported to the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions through the regional director for consideration and recommendation to me.” Section (b). Article VTII, Supplement No. 13. further provide* “If the operation of Ibis order creates either unreasonably lew. or ex- cessively high rates, for service, individual cases and clreunistaacas con- sidered. it will be the duty of the Board of Railroad Wage® and Working Conditions to investigate, on complaint, and recommend equitable treat- ment therefor.” As the second and third paragraphs of section (o). Article TV, Supplement No. 12. apply to the smaller non-telegraph stations whether they are included in sched- ules or not, in order to dispose of the pending appeals, or similar cases whleh msy arise, it Is hereby ordered: (a) That the small non-telegraph stations referred to are thoee at which the Digitized by VjOOQle

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160 The Railroad Telegrapher. employes devote all of their time to the duties of such positions, and which paid salaries ranging from thirty dollars ($30) to sixty ($60) per month, both inclusive, as of January 1, 1918, prior to the application of General Order No. 27, and ex- clusive of commissions and compensation for extra service, whether they are in- cluded in schedules or not For agents at such stations establish a rate of forty- eight (48) cents per hour. (b) Eight (8) hours actual time on duty within a spread of 12 hours shall constitute a day's work. Time shall be counted as continuous service in all cases where the Interval of release is less than 1 hour. (c) Overtime at the rate of time and one-half time shall be paid for all time on duty in excess of eight (8) hours within a spread of 12 hours, and also for all time worked in excess of the spread of 12 hours. (d) The wages and hours of service of agencies covered by this addendum shall be changed to conform therewith, effective December 1, 1919, but where the overtime bases and rates of Supplement No. 13 have been applied, no adjust* ments prior to December 1, 1919, are required. WALKER D. HINES, Director General of Railroads. UNITED STATES RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION. Washington, D. C., January 2, 1920. INTERPRETATION NO. 9 TO SUPPLEMENT NO. 13 TO GENERAL ORDER NO. 27. STATEMENT. In one case the employes, in their sole submission, claim that cashiers, sub- ordinate to an agent, have temporary charge of the station and agency in the absence of the agent for long or short periods of time, either hours, days or weeks. They do whatever routine work the agent would do if present They are not re- quired to telegraph. They are bonded and must account for all money in their charge and account for shortages during the time they are in charge of the station, but do not' account for tickets, funds, etc., over their own signature. They are in charge of the station, take the place of, or perform the work of an (the) agent, and that they should be classified as "Assistant Agents," under the provisions of Section (c), Article III, Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27: "Where existing pay roll classification doeB not conform to Article II, employes performing service in the classes specified therein shall be classified in accordance therewith." and Decision 5 (b) of Interpretation No. 4 to Supplement No. 13: "Question 6. — Do the following classes of employes come within the provisions of Supplement No. 13, and shall such positions be incorporated into existing agreements and into agreements which may be reached In the future on the several railroads? "(b) Assistant Agents? "Decision. — Yes; where included in existing agreements, or where they have charge of a station, take the place of, or perform the work of, an agent" The title "Assistant Agent" has not been used on the road on which the question arose ; the term "Cashier" being used to designate the employes per- forming such service. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 161 In another case the Regional Director's sole submission sets forth that at cer- tain stations, in order to restrict the agents' hours of service to eight, subordinate employes, such as clerks, ticket sellers, or others, are required to come on duty before the agent or report later than the agent and remain on duty after the agent. Interpretation No. 8 of Supplement No. 7, General Order No. 27, reads: "Question 4. — Does Section (a), Article I, include ticket olerks and ticket sellers? "Decision. — Yes; excepting such as come within the scope of existing agreements or those hereafter negotiated with the railroad telegraphers." The principle of the propriety of reassigning the work at an agency to cover the changes in conditions produced by Supplement No. 13, is recognized in Inter- pretation No. 4, Decision 31, as follows: "Question 31. — Is there anything in Article VI related to Article III where the agent or operator has been required to report at an early hour |nd or to remain until a late hour to handle United States mail and parcel post, which would prevent the management making contract for handling the mail or assigning a messenger for that specific service, thereby re- ducing the elapsed hours of the agent or operator? "Decision. — No." Question 1. — Does Section (c). Article III, Supplement No. 13, General Order No. 27, require that employes of any designation, who temporarily or for a portion of their time perform part or. all the service performed by the classes specified in Article II of Supplement No. 13, whether the regular occupant of the position is absent or not, shall be classified in accordance with Article II of Supplement No. 13? Decision. — No. Such service is not the complete fulfillment of the duties and responsibilities of the position contemplated in said section. Question 2. — Does Section (c), Article III, Supplement No. 13 to General Older No. 27, and Decision 5 (b), Interpretation No. 4 to Supplement No. 13 require that classifications be Inserted in schedules and that employes performing duties set forth In Question 1 above be classified thereunder? Decision. — No. Question 3.— -Does Section (c). Article ni. Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27 require that employes who perform part or all of the duties of an agent prior to or following the agent's tour of duty, shall be classified as an "As- sistant Agent"? Decision. — No. Uhder Supplement No. 13 the duties of an employe are taken into consideration in establishing a wage rate and the agent may properly designate the duties to be performed by his subordinates. Question 4.— Does Section (c), Article III, Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27 require that an employe who is assigned to take charge of a station, taking the place of and performing the work of an agent, with the responsibility therefor, be paid as an agent or assistant agent? Decision. — In such cases a relief or acting agent is usually placed in charge of the Btation. Nothing in Supplement No. 13 intends to have such work performed by an employe of the station at his regular rate. WALKER D. HINES, Director General of Railroads. Digitized by VjOOQle

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BRIEFS The last call. Pay your dues now and avoid becoming delinquent The union label constitutes recognition of the union by making certain the recog- nition of union products. for the term ending June 30 are now due and payable. Time for payment expiree February 29, after which it will be neces- sary to secure reinstatement in the Mu- tual Benefit Department by certifying to good health. Nine hundred and twenty-nine new members were initiated into the Order during the month of January. There are about 2,000 back claims to be adjusted as a result of the enactment of the new law. A national agreement effective Febru- ary 19 has been reached between the railroad administration and the Brother- hood of Railroad Signalmen of America. Labor will have the opportunity of ex- ercising its power if the voters take ad- vantage of their suffrage at the 1920 primaries and elections. Answers to the article “Arguments Ad- vanced by a Non," in the “Our Corre- spondents" columns of the January issue of The Telegrapher are too numerous to be printed, and we have therefore only published the first ones received. Because of illness of Sister Kate B. Carr, president of the Ladies’ Auxiliary, we have not received her usual monthly contribution to the Auxiliary Columns. The Telegrapher and its friends extend their fondest wishes for her early and complete recovery. To the woman of the trade unionist household the union label affords a guar- antee that the wages earned under union conditions are expended upon union prod- ucts and for the maintenance of union conditions, to return with Interest in im- proved conditions for all. Dues in the Order and assessments on Mutual Benefit Department certificates The State Industrial Welfare Commis- sion of California has ordered that full, time women workers in hotels and restaurants shall be given one clay’s rest in seven. The California eight-hour law makes no provision for a rest day, but the welfare commission has acted under the state constitution, which givee it power to regulate working conditions of women and minors. For the first ten months of 1919 the number of railroad employes killed was decreased by 1,107, as compared with the same period in 1918, according to Director General of Railroads Hines. During the same period '26,930 less employes were injured. The railroad of- ficial says this has been possible by ef- ficiency methods introduced by the rail- road administration. The Oregon Industrial Accident Com- mission has put into operation the new law which provides for an increase of 30 per cent in payments to injured workers entitled to benefits under the workmen's compensation law. Thfe new act will cover all cases of disability coming under the jurisdiction of the ac- cident commission after December 1 of last year. Belgium workers are restless because of increased living costs. Employes of the government have declared a “state of strike." This does not mean that a strike will ensue, but it is an expres- sion by which these employes show their dissatisfaction with present con- ditions. The coal miners recently re- ceived substantial wage gains and this has affected the entire nation. Digitized by Google

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The Railboad Tbleorapheb. 163 President Forrester and associate of- ficers of the Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers and Express and Station Employes have signed an agreement with Director Gen- eral of Railroads Hinee which gives com- plete recognition to that organization and establishes working oonditions that were impossible to secure a few years ago. * Government officers advise ns to buy less and to produce more. If we are to buy less, why not quit buying the prod- ucts of unfair industry altogether? In these times of short supplies of goods, the purchase of union labeled goods ex- clusively would be keenly felt by retail- ers and by manufacturers of the unfair type. In these times of excitement and confusion, let us not lose sight of the tried and true union label. At a wage hearing before the Senate Postal Committee, President Brown, of the National Rural Mail Carriers’ Asso- ciation, said these carriers are resigning from the Government service at the rate of 50 a day. The rural carriers recently affiliated with the A. F. of L., much to the sur- prise of some Senators, who seemed to think that the recent anti-trade union hysteria in the Senate has affected Gov- ernment employes. In a speech at New York City before business men, Charles M. Schwab, of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation, acknowl- edged that “we have been great auto- crats with reference to labor." “Labor," he said, "has not had a fair share in the prosperity of the country, and we must remember that a man is a man as long as he does his duty." This statement will be of interest to employes of the Bethlehem Steel Corpor- ation. The House Committee on Immigration has tabled Congressman Hudspeth’s plan to permit the temporary admission of Mexican farm laborers in Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Sugar beet growers claim there is a shortage of labor in tbfese states and the immigration laws should be set aside. The committee also opposed the re- moval of the head tax and the literacy test, so far as they apply to Mexioo, Can- ada, Porto Rico and West Indian coun- tries. The Bureau of War Risk Insurance asks the public to assist it in denying statements that the Government’s insur- ance for war veterans is only temporary. "Government life Insurance for veter- ans of the great war is a permanent proposition," said the director of the bureau. "Misleading statements have been made to the effect that Government insurance will cease at the end of five years after the war, or that it will be turned over to private companies. Such statements are absolutely false and with- out foundation." Congressman Blanton is in distress. He is a mighty busy man, with his attacks on President Gompers and the A. F. of Jj., interspersed with defenses of Post- master General Burleson. He says he is one of the few men In his party who have defended the postmaster general. But virtue is not always rewarded, for the postmaster general states that the postal service in Mr. Blanton's dis- trict is excellent and that there is no difficulty in filling vacancies. This is too much for even Br. Blanton, who cries: "I can defend him no longer." At a meeting of Oklahoma trade union representatives, called by President Fen- ton, of the State Federation of Labor, It was decided to meet the activity of anti- union employers by starting a campaign of organization and education among the wage earners of Oklahoma. The anti-unionists are attempting to hide their antagonism under the shoddy, time-worn "open shop" cloak, and insist on using that term, instead of courage- ously declaring that they are opposed to trade unionism and want the sole right to set wages and working conditions. Digitized by Google

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164 The Railroad Telegrapher. Taken collectively, the trade union weekly wage scales in this country ad- vanced 30 per cent from May 15, 1913, to May 15, 1918, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. In July, 1918, the bureau reported that during the five-year period. May, 1913, to May, 1918, the price of food as a whole advanced 63 per cent. The Government , thus shows that wages advanced 30 per cent and food costs advanced 63 per cent* during the same five-year period. These statements indicate how correct is the claim that "high labor costs" is re- sponsible for present high prices. Francis F. Kane, United States attor- ney for Eastern Pennsylvania, has re- signed. In his letter to Attorney General Palmer, he protests against proposed sedition bills. He says he could not con- scientiously take part in the enforcement of such a law. Mr. Kane also says: "Munition manufacturers and many other persons made rich by the war are seeking to dodge the payment of their taxes. The enforcement of the law against them is of prime Importance. There are also fraudulent contractors who during the war have grown rich, and there are, as you know, corrupt Govern- ernment agents using their offices for il- licit gain. The punishment of these peo- ple is infinitely more important than the pursuit of the ‘radicals/ ” If Miss Helen Taft continues her strike talk, she may run afoul of one of her fa- ther’s labor injunctions. In discussing the low wage of teachers she said she was not wholly serious last fall when she suggeted that professors form a union and strike, "but,” she con- tinued, "had I measured my words more carefully I would have said that it would be better for the college professors to unite to demand higher pay, and even perhaps to strike as a body, rather than that they should strike individually by leaving the profession.” At hearings before the President's miners' wage commission officers of the United Mine Workers presented statis- tics obtained from the Treasury Depart- ment and financial reports showing that In 1917 there were 335 mining companies that made 15 per cent on their capital stock, 311 made 20 per cent, 295 made 25 per cent, 270 made 30 per cent, 232 made 40 per cent or more, 197, 50 per cent or more; 105, 100 per cent or more, and eight companies made over 1,000 per cent. Regardless of all increases, it was stated, mine labor is receiving today few- er cents out of every dollar paid to oper- ators for coal th^h in 1913 and 1914. A tenant cannot be ousted wlien it is impossible to find other premises and when he refuses to pay additional rent, is the ruling of Justice Strahl in the Sixth Municipal Court of Brooklyn. The land- lord brought nonpayment proceedings be- cause the tenant refused to pay the in- creased rental which was demanded dur- ing the month. The tenant refused to pay this increased rental and remained in the premises after the first of the month because he could not find an apartment. The court held that, since the tenant could not move because he could not find any premises elsewhere, his holding over was unavoidable, could not have been provided against by him, and did not grow out of any default or wrongful act on his part, but was due to the serious housing shortage prevalent in this city since the country entered the war. Digitized by VjOOQle

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PEfiSONAL y'MNTION The following births have been re- ported since the last issue of The Teleg- upheb: To Bro. and Mrs. R. E. Kemp, Jr., of Live Oak, Fla., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. J. Henderson, of Manor, Ga., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Forman Harding, of HenriHe, Ind., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. George Thomas Mur- ray, of Ft Worth, Tex., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. A. Turner, of Cam- bridge, Mass., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. O. S. Brown, of Hull Junction, Minn., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. L. McCarty, of Meadowlands, Minn., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. O. Merklin, of Index, Wash., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. R. Cook, of Inman, Neb., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. E. Hougland, of Scotteburg, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. P. E. Prather, of Jonesville, Ind., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. R. L. Lloyd, of Ho- bart, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Sister Leo Thiel, of Roundup, Mont., a girl. ^ To Bro. and Mrs. Day Reynolds, of Rathdrum, Ida., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. A. R. Friberg, of Em- mons, la., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. F. Mann, of Wav- erly, N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. O. H. Underwood, of Elgin, N. D., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. R. G. Penberth, of Weifflport, Pa., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. D. M. Hemmesch, of Sioux Lookout Ont., a girl. To Bro* and Mrs. J. D. McDonald, of Redditt Ont, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. S. M. Johnston, of Sioux Lookout Ont., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. R. H. Hemmesch, of Pigs, N. D., a girL To Bro. and Mrs. W. A. Eiden, of Brantford, N. D., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. L. Lason, of Breckenridge, Minn., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. 0. Beery, of Mel- rose, Minn., a girl. ^ To Bro. and Mrs. E. L. Smith, of Huff, N. D., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. H. Eppler, of Elizabethtown, Pa., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. L. C. Turner, of Iatan, Mo., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. C. Rulon, of Lex- inton, Ky., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. P. R. Sims, of Woeds- field, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. T. J. Dolan, of Potts- ville, Pa., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Jas» Beldon, of Rich- mond, Ky., a girl. To BrO. and Mrs. Wm. B. Krautwurst of Charlotte, N. Y., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. B. C. Harrison, of Venturis, N. D., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Perry Stewart, of Meigs, Ga., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. A. B. Abernathy, of Granite Falls, Minn., a boy. i To Bro. and Sister H. P. Jarvis, of Montevideo, Minn., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. L. Phipps, of Bunch, Okla., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. J. Dennison, of Bay City, Mich., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. E. Cross, of Parksdale, Colo., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. F. Pool, of Laurel, Miss., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. W. B. Partridge, of Newton, Miss., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. M. B. Pitzer, of Van Horn, Tex., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. R. W. Gordon, of West Hoboken, N. J., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. R. E. Haynes, of Lynndyl, Utah, a girl. Digitized by * ^.ooQie •

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166 The Railroad Telegrapher. The following marriages have been re- ported staoe the last issue of Thb Telbo- bapheb: At Alexandria, Minn., Bro. Erick Keck, of Div. 70, to Miss Anna Steen. At Roundup, Mont., Bro. C. A. Spur- ling, of Div. 23, to Mias. Anna Waters. At Plains, Mont., Bro. M. E. Schroder, of Div. 54, to Miss Mabel Burton. At Pontiac, 111., Bro. L. P. Hertensteln, of Div. 168, to Miss Pearl Engelsen. At Emporia, Kan., Bro. T. C. Dawson to Sister Nettie Hightower, both of Div. 61. At Kansas City. Mo., Bro. W. K. Smith, of Div. 61, to Miss Mary Nelson. At Minneapolis, Minn., Bro. C. D. Til- lema, of Div. 76, to Miss Mabel Stell- wagen. At Roblin, Man., Bro. Roy Elmer Henry, of Div. 43, to Miss Lorna Por- teous. At Strongs, Mich., Bro. R. A. Tobin, to Sister Lucetta Wadd, both of Div. 116. At Ottawa, Kan., Bro. J. C. LIttrell, of Div. 61, to Miss Ruth Moore. At Atchison, Kan., Bro. 0. P. Stark, ef Div. 61, to Miss Ruth Stevens. At Luverne, N. D., Sister Grace Wil- son, of Div. 70. to Mr. W. B. Jensen. At St Annede Bellevue, Que., Bro. Geo. Giroux, of Div. 7, to Miss Cecile Lalonde. At Tray nor, Saak., Bro. Arthur Ernest Baldwin, of Div. 7, to Miss Helen Jayne Kirkland. At Hamburg, la., Bro. T. T. Bellus, of Div. 130, to Miss Bessie Garst. At Sylvester, Ga., Bro. M. L. Kelley, of Div. 15, to Miss Julia Nelson. At Federalsburg, Md., Bro. C. Davis, of Div. 17, to Miss Sarah Merrick. At Capreol, Ont, Bro. H. T. Lamar, of Div. 11, to Miss Mabel Burton. At Ironwood, Mich., Bro. D. V. Cronen, of Div. 53, to Sister B. M. Ahearn, of Div. 76. At Ttnsman, Ark., Bro. W. R. Brett, of Div. 126, to Miss Mabel Echoff. Bro. C. R. Brown, of Div. 126, to Miss Edith Hebert. The Telegrapher extends congratula- tions to the happy couples. The following deaths have been re ported since the last issue of The Tmsa- bapheb: Wife of Bro. W. H. Phillips, Jr„ of Div. 51. Bro. C. E. Dickinson, of Div. 8. Mother of Bro. M. A. Smith, of Div. 8. Bro. Oscar W. Donahoe, of Div. 49. Bro. M. C. Weaver, of Div. 62. * Bro. H. C. Garner, of Div. 62. Father of Bros. Hal, Roy and Fred Belyea, all of Div. 11. Son of Bro. N, R. Miller, of Div. 127. Infant daughter of Bro. J. L. McCarty, of Div. 127. Mother of Bro. B. T. Willard, or Div. 70. Bro. W. G. Laney, of Div. 15. Bro. H. L, Phillips, of Div. 54. Bro. Isaac Newton Beatty, of Div. 130. Father of Bro. J. A. Hitchborn, of Div. 17. Daughter of Bro. Harry Schnell, of Div. 17. Father-in-law of Bro. J. P. Fudenskl, of Div. 17. Mother of Bro. Wm. H. Cobb, of Div. 27. Father of Bro. J. H. Finch, of Div. 27. Daughter of Bro. W. C. Lynch, of Div. 96. Mother of Bro. J. F. Dewey, of Div. 17. Wife of Bro. S. H. Buckley, of Div. 17. Bro. T. R. Wallace, of Div. 57. Mother of Bro. G. F. Morrill, of Div. 96. Mother of Bro. R. P. Stoddard, of Div. 23. Bro. Robt. J. Fairbairn, of Div. 11. Daughter of Bro. W. F. Kenney, of Div. 184. Bro. R. D. Montgomery, of Div. 184. Bro. Horace Cooper, of Div. 19. Bro. A. Barnett, of Div. 8L Bro. F. O. Parent, of Div. 1. Bro. G. H. Wagner, of Div. 16. Father of Bro. H. G. Minnigh, of Div. 17. Father of Bro. J. C. King, of Div. lflL Wife of Bro. J. H. Rogers, of Div. 130. Father of Bro. C. O’Donald, of Div. 28. Daughter of Bro. R. D. Reid, of Div. 16- Son of Bro. C. R. Robinson, 9f Div. 16- Mother of Bro. J. E. Myers, of Div. ISO. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 167 Wife and infant daughter of Bro. H. Hallenbeck, of Dir. 8. Son of Bro. E. G. Lanier, of Div. 26. Bro. Hugh P. Horan, of Div. 26. Bro. J. L. Sealy, of Div. 69. Bro. U. 8. Dundon, of DiY. 74. Sister Edith Whilden Slmkins, of DiY. w. i. "i-q The bereared relatives have the sym- pathy of alL WANTED. Present addresses of W. M. McCl ana- ban, L. J. Knzela and 8. B. Bash, who resigned from the Union Pacific to enter Military Service. Z. R. Hook, Box 10, Manhattan, Kan. Present address of W. J. Bross. Last heard of working as operator for the Soe Lins at Devils Lake, N. D. “Bill, if you see this write me.” H. J. Tiool, Harlow, N. D. Present address of operator Fay Tates. Last heard of with the 404th TeL Bn., "Belgique Camp” LeMans, France. "If yon see this, write me.” J. A. Melton, c*o M. 6 St. L. R. R. Hanna City, 111. Present address of J. R. Bertram. For- merly with the B. & O. Railroad at Lorain, Ohio. “Bert, I have g09d news for you.” Write me. A. A. Hammell, 804 W. 22nd 9L, Lorain, Ohio. Present address of France Parrett Last heard of working for the C. it B. I. at "BX" tower, Bismarck, 111. " J. P. PARRnrr, Ashmore, 111. If the writer of the article in the De- cember issue of The Telegrapher entitled *A Labor Press” and signed "Certificate 3972” will send name and address, the undersigned will take pleasure In sup- plying him with reading material in re- gard to labor in this State. Rov A. Baird, Cogswell, N. D. Present address of Jack P. Herr. W. H. Herr, Oak Forest, 111. Present address of Fred L. Dewey. Was at one time wireless operator, and also worked as Western Union operator and railroad man. A. B. Harris, Marengo, Ind. Present address of J. W. Hayden. Last heard of at Cairo, 111. Worked on the M7 & 0. in 1907. J. 8. Hayden, o-o L. R. it N. Co., Garyville, La. Whereabouts of William Moss. Last heard of working on the Pennsylvania Railroad. "Bill, if you see this, write me.” F. L. Buckland, 294% Silver St., Akron, Ohio. Wish to trade position. Have first trick in Montello, Nev. Regular seniority dates November, 1912. Anyone inter- ested. write me, and I will give full in- formation. Henry Didlakx, Montello, Nev. Present address of Sol Reimer. Lastf heard of working at Seattle, Wash., for N. P. “Sol, if you see this, communicate with your old friend "Red” at Monte Yard. Otto J. Kolb, 401 S. 7th St, Montevideo, Minn. LOST OR STOLEN. Card No. 1846, Cert 771, Div. 22, for terming ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 3263, Cert 2073, Div. 59, for term ending June 30, 1920. Digitized by Google

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Shfe Hat No Occupation. She rises at break of day, And through her tasks she races; She cooks the meal as best she may, And scrubs the children's faces. While schoolbooks, lunches, ribbons, too. All need consideration ; And yet the census man insists She has “no occupation." When breakfast dishes all are done. She bakes a pudding, maybe ; She cleans the rooms up one by one, With one eye watching baby. The mending pile she then attacks, ' By way of variation ; And yet the census man insists She has “no occupation." She irons for a little while. Then presses pants for daddy; She welcomes with a cheery smile Returning lass and laddie. A hearty dinner next she cooks (No time for relaxation) ; And yet the census man insists , She has “no occupation." For lessons that the children learn The evening scarce Is ample. To “mother, dear,” they always turn For help with each example. In grammar and geography She finds her relaxation; And yet the census man Insists She has “no occupation." — Elsie Duncan Tale. The Same Old Story. It’s the same old story in the same old way, From three to eleven every darn day; If a fellow asks off for a single day. It's the same old story In the same old way. Can't go to church on the Sabbath day ; It’s the same old story ( in the same old way ; At night when we pray to God in heaven. Let’s pray for one day out of seven. I worked last Christmas and the Christmas before ; I suppose next Christmas will be one more; You’d imagine we got ten bucks a day, But it’s the same old story in the same old way. A friend said to me the other day. Why don’t you lay off and go away? I looked at him and had to say, It’s the same old story in the same old way. I sometimes think old Uncle Sam Don’t care for us or give a dam; He knows darn well we’re getting gray From the same old story in the same old way. I hope St Peter, at the golden gate* Won’t say copy has right or will wait; I think he will look at us and grin And say, march in, you’re free from sin. Every-Day Philosophy. Oh, nobody cares what you’re grouchy about ; % Pray, keep all your gloom out of sight; A bit of sane thinking would soon put to rout The clouds which are hiding the light This world, after all, is a right pleasant place; Do not spoil any part of the plan By taking your share with an unsmiling face; But stand to your guns like a man. If fortune should weave in her fabric for you Scant measure or colors that run, Remember that as to yourself you are true, So victory o’er self shall be won. — O. Woodward Stryker , in Los Angeles Times. Here’s the chatter we’ve got to get ; Jump around like a cat with a fit ; Is the east-bound coming? Is the siding clear? Stick that receiver closer to your ear. Go out on the track, look at the rails ; Can’t you fix that switch with a couple nails? Can you see the west-bound ? Where are your eyes? It’s only three miles to Paradise. Now, before I close, please let me say. It's the same old story in the same old way; If we cause a wreck or happen to fail, It’s twenty years for us in Jail. — C. E. Nightingale, Cert. 7380, Dto. 17. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Difference. “Skies are very unlike men in one re- spect.” “What is that?" “They are always bright when they’re blue.” On the Highway. “Why do you speak of the flyers as vagrants of the air?" “They have no visible means of sup- port.” Probably. “To what monarchial institution are these anarchists and Bolshevists most opposed?” “I guess it is to the Order of the Bath.” Found It So. Molly: Our doctor told me today that hammocks are not good for one. Cholly: He’s right, dear, they’re not good for one. but they’re all right for two.— Yonkers’ Statesman. No Wonder. “Wouldn’t you like to see every man satisfied with his lot?" “Can’t say I would. It would hurt my business." “You are — " “A real estate agent.” — Louisville Courier-Journal. No Grip. Solicitor — You don’t think my job a real one? Why, I’m a traveling sales- man. I sell brains, not muscle. Solicited — Well, I must say, you’re the first traveling salesman I ever saw that doesn’t carry a sample with him. — Yale Record. Paid in Full. Miranda— Did you ever flirt when you *ere young. Auntie? Auntie — I’m afraid I did, my dear. Mnanda — And were you punished for it? Auntie — Well — er 1 married your Un- cle George. — World (London). Not Reducing. Mrs. Bascom was buying some lard at the meat counter. Her little boy was outside waiting for her. A neighbor lady came by and asked the boy: “Where’s your maw?" “ ‘She’s in th’ store gettin’ tot." — Phil- adelphia Ledger. Impossible Prescription. You are suffering from brain fag and eni\ui, announced the specialist. You should take more interest in your busi- ness. I would like to, replied the patient. Then why don’t you? demanded the specialist. The law won’t let me, replied the patient. I’m a pawnbroker. — Houston P08t. We’re Strong for the Lady. The tot lady went into a store and, wobbling up to the young clerk, an- nounced: “I would like to see a waist that would fit me." The young clerk looked her over, scratched his ear, and remarked: “So would I." According to a Cartoonist. The honest working man has to haul his weekly wage home in a wheelbar- row." “But there is another side to the pic- ture." “Well?" “He can carry home in one hand ev- erything his weekly wage will buy. — Birmingham Age-Herald. Digitized by Google

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170 The Railroad Telegrapher. Slightly Embarrassed. A good story was told to me the other day by Miss Marie Lohr concerning a maid who, quite unexpectedly, expressed a wish to “give notice.” Somewhat sur- prised, Miss Lohr asked, “Is there any reason?” Then, seeing that the girl hesitated and looked confused, she added/ “Something private, perhaps?” “No, ma’am,” was the answer, “it ain’t no private, it’s a Sergeant. He's been denobilised.” Knew What He Was About. A member of a national medical as- sociation tells the following story at the expense of a physician: “Are you sure,” an anxious patient once asked, “are you sure that I shall recover? I have heard that doctors have sometimes given wrong diag- noses and treated a patient for pneu- monia who afterward died of typhoid fever.” “You have been woefully misin- formed,” replied the physician, indig- nantly. *Tf I treat a man for pneu- monia, he dies of pneumonia.” — Har- per's. Coffee Also. It happened in a Powell street restau- rant. Bucolic was his dress and bucolic was his complexion, but wealth radiateu from him — from his expensive Stetson to the big diamond on his finger. He sat* down for his meal, and the reck- lessness with which he ordered com- manded the respect of his greedy waiter. “And now,” said the waiter, as he brushed off the table, ‘I suppose you’ll have a demi tasse?” “You bet,” said the man from thq country. “And while you’re back in % the kitchen bring me a cup of coffee, too.” — San Francisco Chronicle. Asking the Impossible. “Germany wants to enter the league of nations too soon,” said an official of the War Department. “Germany thinks we can forgive and forget her unspeakable atrocities In a few weeks or months. How stupid — how German of her! “She’s like the little boy who howled and bawled inconsolably after the den- tist had pulled two of his teeth. “‘Cheer up!’ the dentist said. ‘Cheer up, little fellow! They’ll grow in again.' “ ‘Yes, I know/ wailed the urchin, but not before dinner!”— Washingt on Star. Pleases Johnny. One afternoon the ticket agent on an Iowa railroad was called to the brass-barred window of his little office. Before the window stood a motherly- looking woman. At her side was a bright-faced boy. “Please, sir,” said the woman, ad- dressing the agent, “what time does the next train leave for Des Moinee?” “It leaves at 2:48, madam,” answered the agent with just a trace of annoy- ance. “I have already told you no less than six times during the last half hour.” “I know you have, sir,” gently replied the motherly looking woman, “but John- ny likes to see you come to the window. He says it reminds him of the zoo.”— Oas Magazine. Too Much Scenery. “The Towers” had begun to look like being a white elephant, so far as the estate agent was concerned, even in these days of house shortage. But this time it really did look as if there was a chance of selling the prop- erty Little Mr. Brown and his wife had tramped wearily around the tiny estate, the agent at their heels. “There’s architecture for you!” cried the latter. “There’s country! I tell you, sir,” he added* waxing eloquent, “there isn’t a finer residence on earth than this! Just look at the wonderful scenery!” “The scenery’s all right,” gloomily re- sponded little Mr. Biown, who was look- ing for a home. “The only trouble to my mind is that there’s too much of it between here and my office in the city.” — London Answers. Digitized by VjOOQle

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SUSTAIN AND PROMOTE LABOR’S IN- TERESTS. / In the January Issue such letters as “Anti-Strike Legislation/’ “Pay Your Poll Tax,” “Topics on Labor,” “Force Labor’s Eights,” “Establish a Labor Press.” “A Labor Press” and the editorial “A Menace to Americanism” is fair evidence of the fact that we have progressed, during re- cent years, in more ways than one. Our more or less economic advance is accom- panied by mental activities which, if in existence eight or ten years ago, never came to light. Those of us who have been members for some years will have no difficulty in recalling the time when such letters as are referred to above would not have passed the editor's desk or would have been blue-penciled beyond recogni- tion. The call to political arms is well taken and why should not the Railroad Telegra- phers take the lead in this move? Perhaps almost as much as any citizen in all the smaller towns of the country the “opera- ter” comes in contact with the public. Why not let each member make it his business to see that our interests are advocated, and are understood by all? Labor’s representatives may become a power in legislative halls if we will but get on the job and see to it whom we elect Let us apply intelligently the truth which is soon to be forced upon us — “Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Lib- erty”— In industry as well as in politics. The writer has been working nights in Washington during this past winter and has spent much of his time during the afternoons in observing the action and listening to the talk in the capitol. One lesson has been learned. There is a cur- rant belief amongst the workers that the Republican party is the party of the finan- cial interests and that the Democratic party is the party of the common people. During all of the speeches which I hap- pened to hear, whenever a progressive measure was being discussed, those who upheld it spoke from the Republican side of the assembly. During the debate on the Cummins bill, the Republican, La Follette, of Wisconsin, in his long speech in opposition to the bill, said: “Labor not only should not be prohibited from striking, but labor should strike,” and ad- vanced many reasons for his belief. Turn- ing to Senator Cummins, La Follette said: “This committee did not write this bill; the railroad magnates wrote it” How many of our members, or of the general public, know of this? Nothing of inter- est to our class is permitted to be pub- lished in the great daily newspapers. The speeches of the Railroad Senators are given great publicity and Senator La Follette’s are suppressed, although this Senator Is, mentally, head and shoulders over each and every member of the Sen- ate. Of course it is out of the question that Senator La Follette should be men- tioned as a candidate for the Presidency — It will be some years before the Amer- ican people will be educated to the point where such a man may aspire to the office. How many of our members are aware of the fact that another Republi- an, Hiram Johnson, of California, recent- ly attacked the daily press of the country? Such attacks are naturally kept from the public. While I am on the subject, I might mention that I happened to run across a book that has been published this month dealing with this subject, and in which are found many concrete in- stances of how labor's interests are throt- tled In the daily press. The book contains 448 pages and may be bought for fifty cents from Upton Sinclair, Pasadena, Cali- fornia, who is the author and the pub- lisher. The book is entitled “The Brass Digitized by VjOO^lC

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172 The Railroad Telegrapher. Check.” I cannot too Btrongly urge upon ail members who desire to become thor- oughly acquainted with this matter, the advisability of reading this book. Those Republicans and Democrats whom I happened to hear advancing the inter- ests of the people in general are in a hopeless and almost inconsequential mi- nority. My idea is merely to call atten- tion to the fact that we must not be deceived by assertions that we may ex- pect something from Democrats, which is utterly Impossible when we consider such monstrosities as Blanton, of Texas, and of such cabinet members as Burleson and Palmer. The position of Congress- men and Senators in office has changed somewhat during recent years. These men no longer vote always with their party. There is a constant “voting with the other side” on questions involving important measures. So we, and all la- boring men who are able to engage in necessary activities in our behalf, should make sure that our representatives in Congress are laboring men, and not pay so much attention to the party affiliations of the candidate. Cebt. 137, Grand Div. A LABOR PRESS. I note an increasing demand for a labor press. It is a long felt want, but it's going to be hard to get. Capitalism right now is striving hard to destroy what lit- tle free press we have, by voluntarily pay- ing higher and higher prices for paper. Several independent journals and innu- merable small newspapers have already been forced to suspend, and paper still soars. Quite recently the Kansas City Star boasted of the fact that it had just paid ten cents a pound for white paper that should sell for two cents, and trans- ported it from Michigan to Kansas City in two passenger cars, at full passenger rates. How many labor magazines or in- dependent papers could afford paper at such a price? It is just another link in the chain cap- ital is seeking to weld about free speech and a free press. The campaign against the 80-call ed “Beds” is a thinly veiled ab tempt to break up unionism and destroy what little freedom we possess. The bills before Congress now, one of which will pasB if we don't stop it, ostensibly to curb sedition, are nothing but a means to the same end. And there are dozens of other plans afoot which can be seen. The best tool open to capitalism is, of course, the daily press. More and more frequently does one hear the expression, ‘Ton can't believe anything you read, any more.” People are waking up, even if it does seem like they never would. And that expression covers the ground fully. I worked for the Associated Press, the greatest news-gathering organization in the world for ten years. I have served as editor and in other capacities on at least a dozen large dallies. I know what I am talking about when I Bay that you can’t believe one single word of any Btory in which capital and labor are involved. I was in Colorado when the Ludlow massacre was perpetrated; I know the in- side facts of the Mooney case, of the Hay- wood, Moyer-Pettibone case, and more re- cently, of the Debs case. These are but a few glaring examples. There are hun- dreds of smaller ones, in which I have Been facts distorted, statements garbled, to give an opposite meaning than that in- tended; words and lines left out of speeches, for the same reason; and stories completely rewritten at bureau points In such a manner that the author of the orig- inal dispatch would never recognize the Btory. One little instance of this was several years ago when the Frisco operators took a strike vote to enforce their demands, after all other means had failed. Ninety- seven per cent of the men voted to strike. This statement was handed a reporter on one of Kansas City's dailies. The re- porter did his part in good faith — he wrote the story and turned it in. Right there was where labor's side of the question encountered a snag. A hasty telephone call to a Frisco official disclosed the fact (?) that ninety-three per cent of the men had voted against a strike. Were Digitized by VjOO^lC

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 173 both statements published? Foolish ques- tion—they were not. One of them was. It’s anything to arouse public sentiment against the strikers — against labor organ- izations In any form. Just recently the Ohio State Journal weeps salt tears In an editorial because “five hundred thousand men (coal miners) were seeking to dic- tate to the Government of the United States.” I presume, however, that this editor could see nothing wrong in the fact that five hundred or less coal opera- tors were openly defying the Government. Neither could he see anything wrong in less than a hundred men controlling the Government without the formality of be- ing elected to a seat therein. A labor press would be a fine thing, but from my experience in the newspaper game, the dailies that we need would be hard to get and harder still to maintain. Without advertising, no paper can exist, except at an utterly prohibitive price — and capital controls the advertising. With our other grievances, it all sim- mers down to the one thing that will ever do us any good — the one thing that is atill open to us, if we except the poll tax —the ballot. Just so long as we can be swayed by brilliant but meaningless ora- tory from office-seeking politicians; just so long as we continue electing corpora- tion lawyers to the seats of power, just so long can we expect the treatment we have been getting. It is better to vote for something you want and not get it than it is to vote for something you don't want— and get it Uzub Head. DEMOCRACY THROUGH UNION PRIN- CIPLES. As a former service man I am going to aay a few words to the men of the tele- graph fraternity who were in the service of Uncle Sam during the late World War. There are several veteran soldiers' as- sociations already formed and no doubt all of you have been solicited to join one or another of these associations. Before you join any association study its declara- tion of principles and platform. And study its attitude and record toward FREE SPEECH and FREE PRESS. De- termine if the members of any soldiers* association have acted as strikebreakers or strike guards or if they have encour- aged others to do so, or if members of any soldiers' association have, with or without sanction, formed mobs and taken the enforcement of the law into their own hands. You may think these things will not affect you, but are directed only against Bolsheviks. But do not be de- luded. The average capitalist in this country does not differentiate between a Bolshevik and a member of a UNION. They are just trying out the suppression of free speech and free press on the Bol- shevik dog now. Owing to the unpopu- larity of Bolshevism they expect to get by with it, and probably will, and then they have established the precedent, which is really what they are after. Then when they are ready they will commence sup- pressing union labor papers and meetings. Ah, but you say, they will never dare. Won’t they, though? They dared to use the injunction against the miners’ union, even though the President of the United States had given his promise that the law under which it was invoked would never be used against labor unions! And they are even now considering laws in Congress making strikes illegal on rail- roads and extending the war-time sedi- tion act to peace time. Comrades, your job as soldiers is fin- ished. You are now back in civilian garb working for a living. You are workers! Your interests demand that you stick together. Do not let anything divide you. Neither religion nor patriotic societies, nor fraternal lodges nor soldiers* associations. Put your Interest as a worker above ev- erything. If your favorite daily paper is printing stuff detrimental to union labor, quit that paper and subscribe to a labor daily or at least to one that is fair and friendly to union labor. If your church or fraternal lodge or the veterans’ society to which you belong is being used by the enemies of union labor to spread propa- ganda against union labor, lift up your voice in mighty protest. And if your pro- Digitized by VjOO^IC

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174 * The Railroad Telegrapher. test has no effect, quit and join an organi- zation which is at least fair to union labor. Remember, we fought for world democ- racy. The big collars never intended that it come true and never believed in it. You men that had to do the work in that fight, you believed in it Now let’s all help to make it come true. World democracy! Is it a dream? At least it is a wonderful dream. Can we make it come true? It’s up to you! C. J. Roberts. Cert. 2125, Divn. 54. ORGANIZATION the only means OF ABOLISHING CAPITALIS- TIC INJUSTICES. Isn’t it it queer that one or two I. W. W. or radical agitators can get on board ship, into a lumber camp or even into a city of considerable size and in no time have the people turning somersaults and committing all manner of crime, and most of the criminals thus developed are working people. There is one class of people who never becomes radical and never is arrested; namely, the employing or capitalist class. Doesn’t it seem a bit strange? Possibly they never resort to radical measures, but if radicalism and agitation bring such remarkable results, one sometimes won- ders why this class and the clergy do not use the same method for good and offset the other kind instead of using rifles, clubs, Jails and violence of all kinds. Are not some of the statements you read in the public papers amusing? And why is it that only the capitalists can see the joke? For instance, very recently one of our prominent citizens who is aspiring to the presidency of the United States is accredited in the public press with making the statement that the right motto in dealing with the agitators was “S. O. S.” “Ship or Shoot,” and also added that “they should be put on a ship of stone with sails of lead and their first stopping place should be h .” The above statement is credited to Maj. Gen. Leonard A. Wood, in an address before the joint session of the legislature. There is no hint of Mr. Wood being rad- ical in the least, but a sane and sensible person of ordinary Intelligence will con- sider it not only radical, but nonsensical as well. Whoever heard of a stone ship, or a lead sail, or any kind of a ship sailing from here to h ? A very edify- ing statement delivered before dignified people of high official standing and by a very honorable official expecting to be elected, or at least, nominated for a still higher office. There Is one thing the worker wants and requires more than anything else on earth, and that one thing is the truth about public matters in general, and especially concerning that which affects the worker in his everyday life, and that seems to be the very thing the cap- italists are determined he shall not have, and they use every manner of camouflage to keep him from getting it. When will the worker begin to realize the necessity of each and every one watching carefully after his own inter- ests? We must not expect anyone but the worker to work for the workers. It is much more profitable for others to work the workers, and they are organ- ized solidly for that very purpose. The workers have merely started to organ- ize. We still need all kinds of organiza- tion and consolidation of interests to be- come more effective and to shut out strife among ourselves, thus presenting a solid front based on the truth and a correct understanding of the economic and social common welfare by each individual unit A labor organization of one hundred per cent is in about the same condition as a schoolhouse would be filled with pupils if there were no attempt to teach. Merely holding a membership card means very little. You also need knowl- edge, and you want the truth. No union member should be satisfied with his local or union unless he is receiving it and passing it on. Your local and your union is just what you make it Each member is personally responsible for what It gives you in exchange for the effort It costs you to maintain. Attend every meet- Digitized by VjOOv LC

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 175 ing you possibly can, insist on more per- fect organization and discuss and com- pare notes on all matters concerning your welfare. The workers, through organiza- tion, can make this a better place to live if they will, prove all things, hold fast that which is good, and organize. Cert. 439, Div. 39. FROM SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT T. M. PIERSON. Having been assigned by the president to legislative duties temporarily, at a time when the National Congress is mak- ing an effort to legislate the railroads back to private control, I am located at Washington, at the Harrington Hotel, and am, with the representatives of all other Railroad organizations, making the best possible effort to have the railroads con- tinued as they are now, under federal con- trol at least for a period of two years, in order that the United States Railroad Ad- ministration may have an unhampered op- portunity, with the cessation of war, to demonstrate in a full measure the benefits to be derived under federal control , for all concerned, as in comparison with the results in the past under private , capital- istic ownership and control. Upon being introduced to certain Sen- ators and Congressmen, by some of the older legislative representatives, who have for several years devoted their entire time to such work, in behalf of their organiza- tions, it was readily developed that the Railroad Telegraphers were looked upon as having neglected all interests in the matter of legislation, both national and in the several states, and I was asked if the telegraphers had really become interested in such matters. Some of the friends of labor in Congress have given me unmistakable hints to the effect that Railroad Agents and Telegraphers had, in the past, voted for those known to be bitter in their opposition to the interests of organized labor, instead of keeping abreast of the times and supporting those who fight their battles in Congress. One Congressman told me that while he is well known as a railroad man among most other railroad men in his state, that he was satisfied that he had never re- ceived more than accidental support from the agents and telegraphers employed by the several railroads traversing the con- gressional district from which he is elect- ed. By “accidental support he meant that if any telegraphers had supported him, it was because they just happened to be of the same political faith, rather than be- cause they were really Interested in sup- porting men who will vote for the Inter- ests of organized labor after being elected. Let us hope this state of affairs will not be continued, as It is a reflection upon the Railroad Agents and Telegraphers as a class, because. In this matter, we are brought into contrast with others who are wide awake on these issues and make it their business to know whether candi- dates for office are in favor of or against their interests, and they' vote according- ly, consequently, their legislative repre- sentatives are entitled to and receive consideration when calling upo'n the mem- bers of Congress to ask that certain ob- jectionable legislation be not supported. As stated above, I will be located at the Harrington Hotel during the time I am continued in legislative work, and shall be at all times pleased to furnish upon request any information in regard to national legislation that may be desired. I can easily advise you as to who is and who Is not supporting our interests, If you are sufficiently interested to write me concerning them. I have just finished mailing to each General Chairman and Secretary copies of a speech made by Congressman Sims, of Tennessee, in introducing the Plumb plan of railroad control and operation, In the House, and the document also contains other valuable information which every member should have, and I hope It will be closely scrutinized and read by every chairman and secretary. Tomorrow I will begin sending out copies of Senator La Follette’s speech, which occupied a part of five days to deliver. The speech was in opposition to the anti-strike section of the Railroad Bill introduced in the Senate by Senator Cummins, of Iowa, In which the railroads are returned to private con- Digitized by Google

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176 Thk Railboad Teleghapheb. trol and operation, and employes are for- bidden to strike, under any considera- tion, and penalties of fines and lmprisonr ment are provided for, in case they should. Senator La Follette is known to be a staunch friend of the railroad men, and it Is hoped his speech will be read thor- oughly. I can only furnish such printed matter to those whose names and ad- dresses appear in the local directory of the Telegrapher for the reason that I have not the necessary names and ad- dresses, but will be pleased to furnish copies to all who write for them. Each member should interest himself in his own Congressional district to the end that he knows the leanings of all polit- ical candidates, in order that you may be able to cast your vote for your friends who will support your interests, when laws are being made, otherwise you vote against yourself. I will be in a position to get such information in all states, and will be glad to furnish same to all who ask for it. Senator La Follette did not only op- pose the anti-strike section of the Cum- mins Bill, but strenuously opposed the passage of the bill in its entirety, and fought to have the railroads continued under Federal control, and several others did the same. The Cummins Railroad Bill was passed by the United States Senate, carrying with it all of its objectionable features, includ- ing the anti-strike section and other sec- tions bristling with heavy fines and impris- onments in case railroad employes or their representative undertake to carry out the protective laws of their organizations, as a matter of defense, under any condi- tions whatsoever. The Esch Railroad Bill was passed by the House, but was amended by the friends of Organized Labor, as a result of the efforts made by legislative repre- sentatives. The amendment is known as the Anderson Amendment, and is not alto- gether to our liking, but has the effect of drawing the teeth, or at least some of the teeth, of the Esch Bill. Both houses of Congress having acted, but In considerable opposition, railroad legislation, of the kind I am referring to, rests now in the hands of the conferee^ which is composed of five Senators and five members of the House, and that body is holding daily sessions and will sooner or later bring forth another bill, and we hope a greatly modified one, which will then have to be considered by the Senate and the House before any law can be passed on that subject. I regret to have taken up so much space, but as it is my first in connection with legislation, I desired to make the sit- uation as clear and understandable as possible in order to set our legislative machinery in motion. THE TRUTH ABOUT LABOR ORGANI- ZATIONS. “Labor unions as they now exist are on the whole beneficial to society in the United States.” The greatest social prob- lem of the age is to make peace between the workingman and his employer, and the labor union Is one of the greatest factors in solving of this vital problem. If there is any prejudice in your mind against or- ganized labor allow me to remove it by the statement of a few facts. The labor unions serve the best interest of the la- boring classes who constitute fully 90 per cent of the entire population. They ob- tain for the working man a living wage, reasonable hours, better working condi- tions, and a higher standard of efficiency. Furthermore, labor unions co-operate most heartily with all other agencies that are for the uplift of humanity in the way of education, temperance, and religion. Thus the labor unions easily justify their ex- istence by the results they have achieved. Since the question is phrased that labor unions are on the whole beneficial, we need not maintain that they commit no errors or no wrongs. I am not try- ing to justfy all strikes and lockouts, but I do maintain that were it not for the In- itiative and protection of organized la- bor that the conditions in these classes would be hopeless. All movements which have been for the betterment of society have had to meet opposition and have suffered many persecutions and endured Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 177 wrongs in order that they might accom- plish the good for which they were organ- ised. The opposition met with by labor onions has a parallel in the opposition met with by Christianity. During the last nineteen hundred years, Christianity which has always stood for the rights of the common people, has had to face a strenuous opposition. In the early days of its history, the Christian religion was looked upon as a revolutionary movement and its leader was compelled to die the ^eath of a criminal. Since that time the blood of martyrs has been shed in order that our present standard of righteous- ness and truth might be established. The overcoming of the opposition met with by Christianity and labor movement is fundamentally necessary to progress. I shall prove to you that organization is absolutely necessary to the welfare of both labor and capital. Also that organ- ized labor results in a higher type of workmanship. This is an age of organ- ization, and no one has realized and taken advantage of this fact more than capital. We have only to look around us to see on every side the results accomplished by organized capital. Its achievements are almost beyond comprehension. No undertaking of any magnitude Is under- taken until an organization is first formed. Everyone knows that the results brought about by the Standard Oil Company could not have been reached without thorough organization of which this company is a notable example. Our railroad systems, our steamship companies, the larger steel corporations an<) many other powerful combines that have been formed during the past few years are a tremendous tribute to the power and influence of effective organiza- tion. Soarcely a week passes that we do not hear of some new company being formed with millions of dollars back of it If land Is needed, it is acquired, larger buildings are erected and equipped with machinery. Every detail Is looked after, and in so far as land, buildings, machin- ery and materials are concerned, they are contracted for and bonds are given to se- cure the performance of the contract. All of this is accomplished by organized ef- fort It can be easily seen from the fore- going that capital Is aggressively organ? ized. Hundreds of bituminous coal com- panies are grouped as the Pittsburgh Coal Company. Many tin, iron and steel estab- lishments are merged into the United States Steel Corporation. Over two hun- drew window and flat glass manufactur- ers have combined into the glass trust. More than one thousand boot and shoe factories are under the management of the New England Shoe Trust. Thus you again see how effectively capital and busi- ness are united in order that they might have the monopoly of production. Against such high trust and monopolies how can an individual in his own strength hope to compete with and secure his just rights? In united efforts there is strength, and only through the agency of organized la- bor can the working class hope to obtain proper treatment Through organization, and through organization alone, can the workingman hope to obtain sufficient means by which he might support his fam- ily so that they may live as human beings should live and enjoy the good cheer of life which - God intended all humanity to share. The employer often sighs for the old times, when his word was law and his workmen took whatever he chose to give, and were silent. Less than a cen- tury ago the laboring class was exploited at will by the employer. Women and chil- dren worked amid filthy surroundings, 12, 14 and 16 hours per day. Men earned a scanty wage by working exhausting hours under foul conditions. The laborer was oppressed and ‘crushed by capital, his pro- test was unheard, his suffering unre- lieved. Before the brotherhod organiza- tions of railroad employes was organized, it was an exceedingly risky procedure for any employe of any railroad company to enter the office of the general manager and in his own name request an increase In pay or a decrease in hours. To do so usu- ally meant dismissal. The old order of affairs has passed away. In that day and age the content- ment of the workingman resulted from his helplessness which arose from disor- Digitized by VjOOQle

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178 Tin: Railroad Telegrapher. ganization and ignorance. This spell of ignorance, which dazed him, has been broken, his eyes are opened and he be- holds strange and wondrous things. New desires are kindled which he seeks to gratify. The age of servility is past. What has caused this great change? Or- ganization! The prime necessity of any group of individuals in order to achieve success in any line of work is organiza- tion. It is through organization that la- bor is enabled to deal with capital. Only through unions can workingmen present their demands and bargain for them as a unit. Through collective bargaining, rep- resentatives of capital and labor meet in discussion and conference, and as a re- sult form a contract known to the indus- trial world as a trade agreement. The trade agreement settles questions of wages and hours, establishes general working standards and provides a mfeans of arbi- trating grievances. It is through unions tha| the laborer obtains and enforces such trade agreements. Labor unionism is a recognition of the fact that under modern industrial condi- tions the individual unorganized work- man can not bargain advantageously with the employer for the sale of his labor. Since the workingman has little or no money in reserve and must sell his labor immediately; since moreover he has no knowledge of the market and no skill in bargaining; since finally he has his own labor to sell, while the employer engages hundreds or even thousands of men and can easily do without the services of any one of them, the workingman if bargain- ing on his own account and for himself alone, is at an enormous disadvantage. In the individual contract between a powerful employer and a single workman the laborer secures the worst end of the bargain. He Is progressively debased be- cause of wages insufficient to buy nourish- ing food; because of hours of labor too long to permit of sufficient rest; because of conditions of work destructive of moral, mental and physical health, and finally because of danger from accident and disease which kill off the workman or age him. What have labor unions done to coun- teract these evils? In the first place, they have increased wages; in the second place, labor unions have reduced the hours of labor, and lastly, they have secured the recognition of the right to compensation for loss of earning capacity due to the nature of accident of employment. In the first place, I maintain that labor unions have Increased wages. The diffi- culty in dividing the values of the product of labor satisfactorily between the em- ployer and the employed is what makes the labor union necessary. If it were man’s nature to give away as much as possible instead of to keep it, the con- tests that call into being the labor union would not exist, but unfortunately man is selfish. Being selfish he creates such combinations of wealth or persons as he believes will most effectively bring to him the lion’s share of the wealth produced. I do not believe that a republic can live and prosper whose wage earners do not receive enough to make life comfortable; who do not have some upward avenue of hope before them. Before the organization of labor the employer dictated to the employe as to what his wages should be, but now, thanks to the organizations, the work- ingman has a voice as to what his wages shall be. I challenge any man to prove that it is a disadvantage to the laborer or to society to give him a voice in the things which concern him. During the last twenty years in the United States there has been a marked increase in wages. What has brought about this great change? Has it been due to the generosity of the employer? Nay. It is due to the efforts of organized labor in its struggle for the betterment of the laboring class. What benefits do labor unions bestow on society by increasing wages? In the first place by increasing wages poverty is reduced. Poverty is the mother of crime and the chief cause of intemperance, ig- norance and degradation. Every man should be given wages sufficient to enable him to build a home, to supply the library with the best of books, and the center- Digitized by L^ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 179 table with the beet of magazines, to keep all comfortably clothed both winter and summer, to live upon seasonable, whole- some food, to secure good educational and church advantages, to have much to en- joy and more to love and to retire at a proper season and enjoy his declining years as a reward for his labors, and this, my friends, is what the labor union is doing, and who in the name of justice can condemn such institutions? This extra pay takes the place of what his children could earn and save them from the fate of too many of our children today passing through childhood as slaves to the mine or the factory. Higher wages make a man a more useful member of his family, and as such he is a more useful member to society. Whatever benefits the family, the basis of society, benefits all society. The' universal ownership of homes is the palladium of national safety and content- ment, and to give the laborer higher wages, a larger share of the thing which he produces, is the only thing that will enable him to own his own home. Having thus shown that labor unions do increase wages, and the value of this to the laborer and to society. I now pro- ceed to piy second point, viz.: That or- ganized labor has reduced the hours of labor and thus benefited society. If, as it has often been said, cheap la- bor and long hours of toil are necessary to a country's prosperity, commercially and industrially China should be at the height of nations. Less than a century ago the laboring class was exploited at will by the capitalists. Women and chil- dren worked' amid filthy surroundings, twelve, fourteen and sixteen hours a day. Man’s condition was not much better. There seemed no relief. Today the labor- er is a free, Independent citizen. His hours of work are reasonable; his wages are better. What has caused the change? Or- ganized labor. The reduction of the hours of labor from thirteen, fourteen and sixteen hours a day to eight and nine is solely due to la- bor unions, and has not taken place in portions of the^ country or in trades where trade unionism is weak. They have con- centrated all their forces upon the move- ment to reduce the hours of daily toil not only as has often been said to lighten the burdens of drudgery and severe toil, but also to give the great body of people more time, more opportunity, and more leisure in order to create and increase their consumptive power; in other words, to relieve the choked and glutted condi- tion of industry and commerce. There are hundreds of thousands of our fellow men and women who cannot find the opportunity to employ their powers, their brain and brawn to satisfy their commonest and barest necessities of sus- taining life. In every city and town through this broad land of plenty gaunt figures, hungry men and women, with blanched faces, and children having the mark of premature age and emaciated conditions indelibly Impressed upon their countenances, stalk through the streets and highways. The organized working men and women, and children with hu- man brains and human hearts inanimate and dormant, things usually known under the titl? of “property.”- We maintain that it is both inhuman, barbaric and retro- gression to allow the members of the human family to suffer for want while the very things that could and would con- tribute to their wants and comforts as well as to the advantage of the entire people are allowed to decay. The demand .of organized labor is a reduction of hours of labor that will give a due share of work and wages to the reserve army of labor and eliminate many of the worst abuses of the industrial system now filling our poorhouses and jails. The movement for the reduction of the hours of labor is contemporaneous with the in- troduction of labor-saving machinery, and has been the most faithful of all reforma- tory attempts of modern times, since it has clearly revealed the power of the working people to realize an improved in- dustrial system and raises the hopes that we may yet be able to stem the tide of economic, social and moral degradations, robbing those who work of four-fifths of their natural wages and keeping the whole Digitized by Google

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180 The Railroad Telegrapher. of society within a few months of destitu- tion. Shorter hours in modern industry means, first, increased physical efficiency; second, greater intelligence and inventive- ness among the wage workers, and third, promotes a purer family life, which in turn means better trained workmen and fewer paupers, tramps and criminals to be maintained out of the national product. What is the condition of the worker when he works eleven, twelve, fourteen hours a day? At the end of the day his vitality is exhausted, he has no time for anything outside of his daily grind. He gulps down his meal and then sinks into what is more a stupor than a sleep. Now let that man’s workday be shortened to eight or nine hours. He works more in- tensely while working, and still has a re- serve of vitality. On this subject the in- dustrial commission says the following in vol. 19 of its report: tfLessening of hours leaves more' opportunity and more vigor for betterment of character, the im- provement of the home, and for studying problems of citizenship. For these rea- sons the shorter workday brings a benefit to the entire community.” Shorter hours lengthen life, make man- hood more independent, womanhood more beautiful and healthful; they cheer the home and make the world better. Who will dare say that the demand for shorter hours has not benefited society, the last argument to which I will invite your at- tention is, that the labor unions have se- cured the recognition of the right for compensation for loss of earning capacity due to the nature of accident of employ- ment. It is one of the fundamental prin- ciples of trade unionism that each mem- ber is responsible for his brother’s con- dition; but that each is responsible for the rest is not a maxim that trade union- ism alone has laid upon its members. The law has forced this responsibility on workmen, sometimes to the most unjust and unreasonable degree, and it is this Injustice, this unreasonableness that prompted labor organizations to demand better protection against loss of life or limb. The employers insisted that they had the absolute right to employ and dis- charge at will, and yet the courts always insisted that every workingman is re- sponsible for the negligence and lack of skill of his fellow workman, and if he is not satisfied to assume the burden he must Quit the job. No wonder the land began to fill with cripples, widows and orphans without redress upon the theory that every workman is responsible for his fellow. Can you blame the unions for making strenuous efforts to secure the recognition of the right to compensation? As a result of their protests about thirty- five states have compensation laws. And is their achievement not something which is to their credit, in as much as it prompts employers to install proper safety devices, and spares honest people crippled through no fault of their own, the humiliation of engaging in a mendicant’s role? Away with opposition to the unions. If they have been instrumental in securing more wages, shorter hours, better safe- guards in factories, then no one has any moral right to act as a counteracting agent to those efforts. Save our children in their infancy from being forced into the maelstrom of wage slavery. See to it that they are not dwarfed in body and mind or brought to a premature death by early drudgery. Give them the sunshine of the school and playground Instead of the factory, the mine and the work shop. We want more schoolhouses and less jails; more books and less arsenals; more learning and less vice; more constant work and less crime; more justice and less revenge; more leis- ure and less greed.' In fact, more of the op- portunities to cultivate our better natures, to make manhood more noble, womanhood more beautiful, and childhood more hap- py and bright. These in brief are the primary demands made by the trade unions in the name of labor. In closing, let me Bay, fellow workmen, that modem conditions not only make the labor union an absolute necessity, but that union has justified its existence by its good work by adding to the working- man’s comfort, intellect, morals, and good citizenship. It has justified the opinion Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 181 of the great English statesman, Mr. Glad- stone, when he said: “Trade unions are the bulwark of modern democracies.” And as our own Ben Lindsay says: “To oppose It, is to oppose liberty, to accept is only the duty of the hour if we would steer this republic past the rocky reefs of vio- lent revolution, for oppression without re- lief, without hope, knows no remedy but rebellion, revolt and violence.” The union is here to stay, and we should lend it a helping hand instead of trying to obliter- ate it, and as Lindsay truly says: “The workers who stand in its way are simply forging their own chains.” Cert. 790, Div. 58. CONTRIBUTE SUBJECTS OF IMPOR- TANCE TO OUR CLASS. The function of this department is in reaching the members of the subdivisions and the system divisions by their local officers. Aside from the personal feature which is interesting to many, remove the Fraternal Department and you bar the local chairman from reaching his im- mediate family with necessary informa- tion and instructions, and the general chairman from imparting needed informa- tion. Rather the trouble lies in the fail- ure of the local officers to feature news and information of a vital nature. Let us, by common consent, banish it to the limbus, in the “mead of the Asphodel where dwells the souls, the phantoms of men outworn.” That this particular department as well as others in the magazine are not up to the standards that the membership desire and have voiced is not so much the fault of the individual as it is the entire mem- bership. We each of us have our own lit- tle job to nurture and when we have done this to our own satisfaction, what- ever and however the point of view of the boss, we are prone to lie down and take unto our souls the sweet unction of the Pharisee. A disposition on the part of the individual to “let George do it” is one of our greatest faults collective- ly. We need what some are pleased to term constructive criticism. We are not likely to get too much even should it come to a straight diet. So, if each of us should come to feel that the advancement of the order depends upon each one, Individually, we would get into line and do some very effective work outside and beside our reg- ular little jobs. I wot and I trow the Journal would be a hummer. Where would its influence stop? .Many articles in the recent numbers of the magazine have shown great merit in that the subjects were well chosen, suc- cinctly and logically told. They carry to you and to me a message pregnant with interest. This is again “letting George do it” It has taken much time and en- ergy and may be at a personal sacrifice of the writer, to get his message to you which so vitally concerns yourself. Each of us at some time during our working or playing hours have moments of in- spiration brought about by one event and another. These moments or flashes of in- spiration come from our better selves, and if we are slothful and heedless, they will cease coming, and we may take a warn- ing from this that our mental apparatus is, from disuse, fading away or rather reverting to pure instinct as of the ani- mals, and we will necessarily be forced to depend upon the physical body alone for our daily bread. This is not a pleasing prospect The mental machine is peculiar to itself in that it must be worked in or- der to grow. We can work it by study and observation, and this we know as mental training. The process is much like swimming against a swift current; we must needs put forth a great effort or we will be swept backwards, perhaps, into a swifter current in which there is little if any chance to keep our head above the en- gulfing waters. On the other hand, the harder we work this mental apparatus the more and better it is trained and thus we come to the realization that we are advancing and not retrograding. This realization tends to brace and encourage, and the toil of the day ceases to be a heart-breaking drag; mental labor, study and research, become a joy. Our mind now becomes alert and the trend of events in which we are participants give us Digitized by VjOOQle

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182 The Railroad Telegrapher. much food for thought, and the conscious- ness comes that many hands make easy work, or rather many trained and united minds can make our order a most tre- mendous factor in the world of labor. We are thus able to come to George’s relief and collectively we accomplish that which seems to be impossible. The begin- ning may seem a very slow process, but a little determination you will find goes a long way; soon there is an appreciable gain. So, when a thought comes to you that^ is of compelling interest it will of necessity be interesting to your fellow worker. Your duty and your pleasure will be in giving it to him and you can reach a larger number through our Jour- nal than by a letter to one who happens to be your particular friend. To be sure, if you are to reach the many through the magazine you may write, rewrite and re- write in order that the child of your brain may be clothed to carry a vitality compelling interest. The great minds of the ages and the races which evolved our wonderful literature, sciences and arts had a beginning. Subjects limited to the good of our or- der and the individual member are rele- vant, but subjects from the age of Ann to higher philosophy, however proper in their particular sphere, are irrelevant The functions of the Telegrapher are solely that of the interests of our par- ticular order. When we go outside of that interest we are burdening our magazine, the big letter to you and to me, unneces- sarily. It is not, however, burdening the journal when dynamic thought carries its message to the humanity which labors by hand and with brain, the humanity of the great masses who are to remake and re- vitalize our great nation through the channels vouchsafed by the constitution, with a higher Intelligence cleansed of the cloying evil that wishes to rule for pelf and self. Cert. 80, Div. 31. THE AGENT-OPERATOR. As the strength of our order increases and conditions change, many new and important problems of great magnitude arise. * As a matter of fact it is hard to secure contracts and working conditions which will be absolutely fair to all, and we should not complain at the lesser ones; but there is a condition that has gradu- ally crept upon us which is a gross in- justice to the agent-operator. You all, I am sure, will agree with me that work heaped upon an agent-opera- tor, on an average, Is much heavier and more complicated than that of a telegra- pher or even a clerk-telegrapher. But some- one has to do this work, and while the difference in salaries of the operator and the agent-operator is only a trifle, many of us have toiled as an agent-operator for many years with hope of a better posi- tion In this line, where the chief duty is mainly supervisory; but after all our ex- perience In dealing with the vexing prob* lems of the one-man position of agent- operator, a real position as station agent at a large place is bulletined; a place where many clerks are employed, with a chief clerk who promises much relief to the agent. You place your bid, as we term it, but some operator who has-been in the service a few days longer than you, puts in his bid too, and being the oldest in the service he demands a trial on the job, and there you remain with the small agency which, from an efficient stand- point, you long since have outgrown, while the operator who got the big agency on bid is much smaller than the job. He blunders and splutters along and works hardships on thfe clerks who hold the job for him until he gets a smattering knowledge of the work, and on he rocks with the best job, when he is utterly in- competent As I see it it is a matter of age against intellect. By this I do not intend to con- vey the idea that operators are not intel- ligent, but that they have been and re- mained on easy street for a long time, working a block job perhaps, and have escaped the hardships of a small agency until their age would secure for them an agency where the bulk of hardships are born by his force working under him. Is it right that such a condition should Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 183 exist? Is it justice to the agent-operator? and is it giving the railroad company a square deal? This condition is causing no little un- rest among the agent-operators, and if not soon corrected in an equitable manner, will some time, not far distant, cause a split in our ranks and something will happen that will shake the 0. R. T. to it’s foundation stone. There is a remedy for this condition which would be justice to all concerned. Have it included in our agreement that before an exclusive telegrapher can kick for or bid on an agency where one or more clerks are employed, that he shall have had at least two years’ service as agent-operator or agent at a one-man’s station. If such a clause were imbedded in our agreement it would open a new field for accuracy and efficiency, because the young man just starting out would be ready and willing to take the small agency and ap- ply himself in order to fit and prepare himself for the better position, and the man who is too lazy to do this would sure- ly get his own while justice would pre- vail. Cebt. 174. OPERATORS AND AGENTS. I notice several of the boys writing on the amount that the operators, agents, towennen, and all who are covered by our contract, should receive. Boys, let's get down to the signal maintalners, otherwise just the straight old lineman. We have one with headquarters right here in my office. I certainly can truthfully say that this man receives $175 per month at the present time, .time and one-half for Sun- days and holidays. This same man re- ceived his back time about two months ago, and it was twelve hundred dollars. I received mine about the same time as an others in my class, and received $87.67. How is this for comparison. I under- stand from this man that he is to receive 72 cents per hour and will receive back Pay from May 1st, 1919, up to the present time, which will net him quite a nice lit- tle sum. Boys, what I think is a good way to get a living wage is to make a demand. 1 have failed to see where our officials have ever done this. Make a demand and stand by it. I was talking to a trainmaster the other day and he said that our class had been badly treated in some way. I will say that I have a job working from 4 p. m. until 12 midnight I have three passenger trains to meet and sell tickets for, having to check baggage for one of these. I have other clerical work to do and receive 56.75 per hour for this work handling about thrpe thousand dol- lars a month for the company, and still I am not worth as much as a lineman, who has no responsibility at all. What I want to see is our officials make a demand for a minimum wage, at least 72 cents per hour and relay offices not less than 85 cents per hour. Then we will not be getting any too much. Just think, if an agent is short or a ticket seller is short, who pays the shortage. No doubt any of you can say who has ever worked an agency. Now let us talk about the trainmen. The brother who is writing has my idea exactly. The trainmen in a great many cases are actu- ally scabbing on us. The first thing they do is to go to a telephone booth and call the dispatcher and copy his train orders. This is not right. If we had run a train for them because one of them had been out place, they would be ready to have us blackballed from the order and run us off the road. Boys, when such cases show up, write your local chairman and send a copy to your general chairman. Let’s get down behind this and make things more lively. I am with the brother who Is writing about the Sunday and holiday pay. I still claim that we are entitled to the pay of one and one-half time for these days. The working days are based on 306, and that leaves the Sundays and holidays out of It I think we should all write to the Journal and and call upon our officials to go back to Washington, or all get together if the railroads go back to private owner- Digitized by VjOOQle

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184 The Railroad Telegrapher. ship, and demand that we have this priv- ilege. It is due us, and let’s have It. I have been a member of the order for twenty years and have seen its rise to where we are now. I have worked every kind of a job, from a station hand up to relay office, and have not found where just any kind of a man can make a suc- cess unless he is on to his job. Still, the way the government regarded us was lower than the common laborer. He paid the common laborer five and seven dollars a day for eight hours’ work here in my town, and what did I get? About $4.54 per day. Think, a man has to work two and three years for nothing at all and then comes in and takes a lit- tle “O. S.” job and works that for two or three years before he is considered for anything better. I have been unable to ascertain from anyone why we are classed so low in the eyes of the government, and also the officials of the railroads. I am like the other brother about the division notes. Let’s cut tbem out and each one of us write a short note to the Journal about what we want and what we should get, ^nd make known to the officials that we are with them and will be with them if the worst comes. I want to see every road one hundred per cent and all stick closely together. Now let me say to the officials, we boys are behind you. We are with you and will get what you will demand for us. Let me hear from some brother on this same subject. Old Times And Brother. STATION AGENTS. In reading the article in regard to Sta- tion Agents from one of our worthy brothers, I agree with the brother when he says no '‘exclusive or appointive” agent should receive less than three thousand a year, for an agent is certainly not paid enough considering what he has to do and put up with compared to other classes of railroad men. I myself have been in the railroad business as agent and operator for over fifteen years, and with what experience I have, can truthfully say that we are not paid enough with the work we have to do, such as freight billing, checking re- ports, ticket reports and selling, also hav- ing to look after the U. S. mail for which we receive nothing at all. Most agents have the express to take care of, which takes time for delivery and also reports, receiving only a small com- mission for that, which does not amount to very much and does not pay enough to amount to much with what time we have to put in in making out reports. Most agents have the Western Union Telegraph business to look after, which we receive very little extra for, and which is ten per cent of all cash taken in for messages we send. We do not get a thing for messages we receive from other offices. I claim we should receive a commission of ten per cent on all messages received and sent, and I know other agents and operators will agree with me on this matter. Won't some other brother gent give us a write-up on this subject and let us have his opinion so we can determine how others feel about this. If we all stick together we can win out for what is due us and we can and will get it, if we only stick. Cert. 3318. A reply to the arguments advanced by a Non: I would like to ask this man who wrote this article if he would be receiving the wages that he is now if it was not for our good order, The Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers. Can he truthfully say he would? Will answer that he would not, and any man with good sense will say the same. Let’s hear more about that man’s write- up. A BETTER JOURNAL. If we can’t do anything else with the fraternal matter question, why not go 50-50 on it. Like all other questions, there are two sides to it I have always enjoyed looking over items from the vari- ous divisions where I have worked, but Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 185 I can easily dispense with that pleasure. In fact, I would far rather read what we bare been getting lately from newly awakened members than all the social items ever published. However, since some of us wish to see them printed, suppose we limit them to real news and use the blue pencil on the “new Ford” and kindred items. Certainly much valuable space can be spared. To paraphrase a little, “these are times that try men’s stomachs,” and next November we want to know where we stand and for whom we are voting. Let’s help the capitalists destroy union- ism by destroying capitalism With cap- italism out of the way, as outlined In the Plumb plan, for instance, unionism will have served its purpose and be entitled to an honorable discharge. Cebt. 107, Div. 48. APPRECIATE YOUR ORGANIZATION. The correspondent who wrote “What Do the Relay Men Went?” touched upon several propositions which it might be well to amplify at this time for the benefit of those of our brothers who may not understand the philosophy of trade unionism as well as the veterans do. The letter referred to mentioned the “Iron Law of Wages,” and the new dictum that “labor is not a commodity but the activity of human beings.” Let us briefly analyze these two propositions. The “Iron Law of Wages,” as under- stood and expounded by John Stuart Mill, the father of modern political economy, and by other scientific investigators, when stated in cold, unvarnished English, means this: “The rate of wages for any given grade of necessary labor is pri- marily determined by the standard of comfort the employer sets down as suffi- cient for the labor that is available for that particular work. . . And the extent to which the laborer in this particular field can rise above this standard Is de- termined by his ability to control the supply of labor power in this field.” Here you have the truth, brothers, not from a labor agitator, but from a dispas- sionate economist. To understand fully the tremendous truth of the above state- ment is to understand the basic causes of the present world-wide unrest Applied to the telegraph business, this understanding of wages explains why tel- egraph operators and station ageqts in the past worked twelve and fourteen hours per day, 365 days a year, for $30 and $50 a month. It explains why there was an army of thirteen, fourteen and fifteen year old telegraphers from Maine to Cal- ifornia; why 18-year-old train dispatch-^ ers were not an uncommon sight, especial- ly west of the Mississippi River. Applied to the cotton mills of the South, it ex- plains why there was plenty of work for ten-year-old children, but no work for their parents. This understanding will also give some idea of the stupendous problems the Order of Railroad Telegraphers had to face and solve in those early days, when labor was “free” — and of the uphill struggle it is engaged in even to-day to prevent a re- currence to “those good old days.” The telegraphers legitimately entitled to engage in the business were utterly un- able to control the supply of labor power available to practice their trade because the corporations of this country took ad- vantage of their ability to exploit the youth of the country. One of the first and most colossal tasks our Order had in its early history was gaining control of the supply of telegraph labor through sys- tematic teaching of Its members to con- trol apprenticeship. And may we not sound an admonition right here: Brothers, in these days of the telephone displacing the telegraph as a means of communica- tion on the railroads, it is paramount that we control the apprenticeships to be trained in the intricacies of our trade. We must not live in a fool’s paradise, and sit back, believing that what we have to- day is secured for all time to come! In this life nothing is secure without a con- stant struggle. When men become sloth- ful and lazy, disintegration sets in, which ends in dissolution. Control ap- prenticeships! Digitized by VjOOQle

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186 The Railroad Telegrapher. The employer sets the standard of liv- ing that he thinks Is necessary, when the power so to do rests in his hands. And mark this well — from the beginning of history down to 1920 the standard set is the price of subsistence, when set under these cirmustances. Never in the history of the world has an original effort to im- prove working conditions of “Labor” been initiated by the employing class, as such. Statesmen have fought labor’s battles, it is true. And today we see many employ- ers greatly concerned about the welfare of their employes, and they are devising profit-sharing plans, etc., to satisfy the newly awakened consciousness of their workers. But let me ask you this: Would there be any thought spent concerning labor’s welfare, on the part of these Lady Bountifuls, if Labor had not first edu- cated the workers up to an understand- ing of their place in this world, and to want something? No, Labor has emanci- pated herself from serfdom. It was out of the true fact of wages that labor unions, including our Order, were born, have carried on ceaseless con- flict with industrial autocracy, since the day of their birth, and will continue to wage their ceaseless battle against reac- tion, and for place upward and onward! The Order of Railroad Telegraphers is the organization that has brought the tel- egraphers of this country into its present estate of well being and dignity. Its rec- ord is one of continuous struggles for right and justice, carried on against the allied power of predatory wealth. And it has been eminently successful. Is there any wonder then that we who love the cause of labor dearly, love it with an enduring passion! We love it because it is the in- stitution that has made us free! But we must remember this “Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty!” The President of the United States, the second National Labor Conference, and numerous employers of labor have accept- ed the new decree that labor is the activ- ity of human beings. It is well. How- ever, we have not seen any such expres- sion on the part of the railroad managers, so that we are in the dark regarding their present attitude. We trust that they have experienced a change of heart, too. We would have them realize that they cannot go bach to the old order of things — that only by dealing square with Labor can they be successful. For only by such an attitude, and such a policy can confi- dence, which is so sadly lacking on the railroads at present, be developed. And only through mutual confidence can any enterprise succeed. Knowledge is power. Labor has learned a thing or two. It was organized labor that brought into existence universal ed- ucation—-our public school system. She has made good use of these schools, and has earned the right to a real place in the activities of life. And she will not be denied. Cert. 7354. EDUCATIONAL TOPICS. I saw a letter in The Telegrapher re- cently from a member who suggested that more space be given to articles of an edu- cational character. I heartily concur in this. I believe that your readers are more interested in obtaining the truth in re- gard to some of the great problems of the day than in learning that the second trick man at Podunk is spending his vacation with his grandmother at Squashville. I would suggest that you take your copy of the Congressional Record and select some of the speeches delivered in the Senate on the Railroad Bill. The various bills aimed at free speech, press and as- semblage. Senators Borah, Johnson and La Follette have things to say about these measures which everyone should read, and which are never published in the daily press, or its jackal, the average small town or county weekly. The various so-called sedition and es- pionage bills are as inimical to labor as is the railroad bill. It is all well enough for their sponsors to say they are aimed at revolutionaries and preachers of vio- lence. What construction the courts would Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 187 place upon them once they are enacted, is, Judged by the past, beyond the ken of any- one. There is plenty of law at present to reach all criminal conspirators, and any request for farther legislation has some ulterior motive or is bora of the hysteria so ably worked up by the press of the •ountry. Organized labor stands to-day the strongest bulwark of the Constitution and of American ideals in the country.. Do not let anyone tell you differently. The revolutionists are the Constitution-bust- ers in public office, and their mentors the subsidized press of the country. Labor should form a new party, not a labor party, but a party with a platform to which all who believe that our Con- stitution means what it says, can sub- scribe. A party of free speech, free com- petition and equal opportunities. It should oppose public subsidies, special privileges and militarism in any form. It should stand with the fathers of the country against foreign entanglements, and against favoritism to any other nation, for this in itself will lead to war. J. W. Palmer, Cert. 224, Div. 137. THE LOYAL EMPLOYE. If a man really wants to be ridiculed, there Is no quicker or surer way to get it than for him to say something ridicu- lous in public print. “A Loyal Employe," in the January Telegrapher, has openly invited criticism and ridicule. And if he does not get them it will be because writ- ers to this journal view his remarks in a far different light from which I see them. And if I should ever want to write such an insolent article to an up-to-date maga- zine for intelligent people to read, I would certainly do as "A Loyal Employe" has done — hide myself under the cloak of a nom de plume. I never would have thought it even pos- sible for any man who claims to have a sane mind, and saying that he is an "old timer” in railroad work, and acquainted with labor conditions, both past and pres- ent, to have the audacity to express such ideas, then have the adamantine gall to ask: “Is this good logic not apparent to your readers?" It would be interesting to know just how many times he has had his wages raised voluntarily while he was putting in long weary hours of overtime in trying to "save money for the company and allow them to operate as economically as possible." And it would be equally as interesting to know how many times this “loyal employe" has been thanked, even, for being around the office after working hours and on Sundays, bestowing his “Christianlike efforts" on the dear pub- lic and the company by “handling a West- ern Union message or two." “A Loyal Employe’s" remarks in regard to the nine-hour law are rank insults, not only to Brother Parham, but also to every official and 0. R. T. member. And while he has tried to “enlighten" us as to how, and by t chom, the nine-hour law for opera- tors was secured, he has only made a dis- play of his Ignorance. Why, of coufse, Bro. Perham had much to do in having this law enacted! Yes, indeed! And he was “chiefly responsible for this law." And he “worked tooth and nail in Wash- ington to have it enacted." And he worked in “connivance with other officials” in securing a law whereby this “loyal em- ploye" is benefited just the same as the rest of us are, and it doesn’t cost him a cent, either. And I sent a Western Union telegram, containing the names of thirty- seven operators, to our Congressman from this district, imploring him to work and vote to have the nine-hour law placed on the statutes, and I am proud of the fact that I took some small part in helping to bring about the desired result. Oh, ye gods! Where has “A Loyal Employe" been all these years? And where would he be today, in the way of a living wage and humane working conditions, had it not been for the men who “worked tooth and nail" to better his own conditions, and whom he is now condemning? Consist- ency! In one of his long “preambles" he says, in part: “I believe that it is their spirit Digitized by VjOOQle

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188 The Railroad Telegrapher. of intolerance and antagonism toward non-union men which has caused the em- ployers of labor to increase the prices of their different products through a feeling of sympathy for the non-union man!" What does he mean? What products does he refer to? And are those products some- thing that the non-union men must have? If so, I fail to see just where the "sym- pathy*' for the non-union men comes in. It seems to me that if the "employers of labor" were bursting their shirt bosoms with big-heartedness toward the non- union men, they would show their sym- pathy by decreasing, rather than increas- ing, the prices of their different products. However, this is only one of the places wherein he has left us in the "dark." If "A Loyal Employe” cannot put up any better arguments in defending non-union men, than he has in January Telegrapher he should, at least, elucidate, and let us know exactly what he means. His "infor- mation" in regard to the union being "more or less instrumental in, obtaining higher wages in some instances” is one of the most amusing parts of his article, which I have read several times. And the more I read and think it over, the more I feel like exclaiming: And still you gazed. And still the wonder grew, How one small head Could carry all he, knew! By Ed S. Coyle. ADVICE TO THE LOYAL EMPLOYE. The arguments advanced by a non in the January Journal, who signed himself A Loyal Employe, was quite amusing. I think the editor should have placed this under the heading "Facetious.” We would like to know where he "gets that stuff" about sympathy for the non. What a shame for organizers to disturb this poor loyal employe while he is drawing the dollars that were secured by the union "more or less," as he puts it. He actually charges the union with having committed a crime by securing the eight- hour workday. He tells us that by going to the office on Sunday and working a few hours, when we are not required to, is a Chris- tian-like act. Is it any wonder that he goes home with deeply depressed spirits? No one doubts but what he should look after the company's business and do a good honest day's work within his hours; that is the proper and logical thing to do. But does he ever stop and think these extra hours he is putting in is prohibiting some other man from earning bread and butter? It seems to me that a man who claims to have worked as long and hard for the company should be rewarded with promotion. However, he thinks he has reached the pinnacle of success when he assumed the duties of an agent. We have always found that the man with an up-to-date gets the promotion. Why? What can the company think of a man who will not stick with his brother workers. He calls on the operator to per- form the "simple requests" of scrubbing the depot, bedding stock cars, washing windows, shoveling snow and possibly cutting weeds along the right-of-way. He should do this himself after hours if he is so fond of accommodating the company. Wake up, Loyal Employe, we are living in a new era. Slaving is a thing of the past What if ninety per cent of the men were like Loyal Employe, where would we be? You old timers who worked twelve hours and longer, how much raise did the company offer you voluntarily? Do you think if the company would do crease the number of employes, the rest would get an increase in wages? If they cut a Job off, do the men on either side get his wages? Of course not. j Our advice to “Loyal Employe" would be to exchange his grouch for an up-to- date card. Cert. 821, Div. 59. ANENT THE "LOYAL EMPLOYE." It is amusing to read the article page 73 January issue, signed "A Loyal Employe." It's a shame that this employe is "abused" and even called "harsh" and "even vul- gar names," compelling him to go home in "deeply depressed spirits.” Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 189 Such creatures, who prefer to dwell in the “dark ages of ignorance" should be abased and called harsh names, for he is only keeping a good union man out of a job. Mr. “Loyal Employe," why don’t you join the Order of Railroad Telegraphers and be enlightened? Why prefer to dwell in the dark, why stay ignorant when a slight effort on your part will bring you In the light? There isn’t the least doubt but what your employer has ldng e’er this tagged you as an “easy mark’’ and prefers that you keep in that dark to further his own interests. Why. not throw off the yoke of slavery? If you are against union- ism, how comes it that you are boosting our organization as you do in the second paragraph, in the last few lines? This displays your ignorance beautifully, and WE THANK YOU— every little bit helps. Oh, you poor, misguided Loyal Em- ploye, since when has your employer sym- pathized with you because of your loyalty to him? Since when has he patted you on the bactf and told you you were 0. K. for putting in the best part of your life in his service? Yet if he saw fit to dis- miss you from the service at a moment’s notice, would he come to you and say: "Mr. Loyal Employe, such and such is the case, we are obliged to dispense with your services.” What would you do? What COULD you do? This: Take what they saw fit to hand you and no back talk. That's where the 0. R. T. comes in; were you a union man, this would NOT happen. Wake up, be a man, show your family (if you have one) that you are. Were you a relative of mine, I’d be as proud of you as / am of the Kaiser . Cebt. 74, Div 124. IN ANSWER TO THE "LOYAL EMPLOYE” Permit me to give vent to a long and lusty howl, not long in a grammatical sense, but a long, mental, antagonized howl in sympathy with the poor unen- lightened author of “Arguments Advanced by a Non,” in your January issue. The farther I read in that particular wail the farther my jaw dropped down on my chest. Can you imagine anyone living in this day and age who could conscien- tiously write such an article to the Jour- nal representing the body of men who through their efforts have provided a de- cent working schedule and a fair living wage for him, as well as every other man working at his craft. Permit me, Brother Editor, to say that, that man is going backwards instead of ahead. What would happen to an engine working for “his company,” if it would only run back- wards! It would be scrapped, and if that gentleman isn’t ready for the scrap heap, I’ll pass. I am not one of the old timers, but a . “young sprout,” and I learned my busi- ness by hard knocks. I’m not a bull-necked Bolshevik! or* an I. W. W., but I am a union man from my belt, both ways. I defy any man to say that unionism hasn’t made the workingman’s life worth the living instead of a continual nightmare. A great many of thd old timers will re- member when they used to be on duty twenty-four hours a day, for any and all kinds of work, with compensation enough to buy the bare necessities of life. That was the condition before organization came to life. If you are, by profession, a telegrapher and clerk, and telegraphy is an art or profession, should you be com- pelled to shovel snow or bed stock cars or fill switch lamps as a side line? Would you ask a musician to render you medical advice if you were sick? Certainly not! Then why should a telegrapher have to fill switch lamps or shovel snow when that duty should, and does, fall now upon employes of “Maintenance of Way” De- partment. Will someone kindly shake the “Loyal Employe” and wake him up. This is 1920 we are living in now, and not 1892. The wooden shoe age is past and some of these days somebody is going to deliver a Digitized by VjOOQle

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190 The Railroad Telegrapher. blow into capital's solar plexus which will force him to recognize organized la- bor as an equal and not as a slave. Ben Franklin never said a truer thing to the country during the Revolution that applies to the workingman’s career than when he said: “If we don’t hang to- gether he will hang separately.* Let us all get back of the old band wagon and give ’er a shove and with some kind brother greasing the running gears, I know we can push her to victory. Let’s make a cleaning of a lot of ‘'brakes’* like our “Loyal Employe,” and when Old Man Time cuts his next swath with his scythe along about December 31, 1920, let’s make it a hundred per cent strong and everyone with his shoulder to the wheel pushing forward for all he’s worth. Cert. 3291, Div. 130. CHANGE THE NEWS. Contributions to the Fraternal Col- umns, plainly indicate the purpose of many writers to be that of simply filling space. There is no effort whatever, in a large number of cases, to tell anything worth knowing, and to quote a much- used phrase, they “Talk much, and say nothing.” As the movement to “Change the News” was opened by myself last June, it might be well to go deeper into the situation now existing. Journalism covers two separate and distinct fields — newspaper and magazines. One is local and extremely limited, while the other is national or even international, with no limits. They are as widely dif- ferent as a two-wheel hand truck is from a railroad train. Out of all the newspa- pers in this country, it is claimed that only one thousand are capable of buying news. The financial position of the coun- try newspaper, the limit placed upon its circulation by its location, leaves the one alternative of printing back-yard conver- sations or running blank pages. While the Fraternal Columns are not bought news, so to speak, with the amount of talent going to waste among an educated craft of persons such as each issue of the Journal gives evidence of, it is the rank- est of folly to expect the Railroad Teleg- raphic to be held down to the status of the country newspaper, just because the country paper can’t afford better clothes. Persons opposed to the institution of educational items, are ignoring the rights of members on the local division, in favor of a chance hit with some isolated broth- er on another division, where the member- ship is being discriminated against by itb correspondent in the same way. It is only reasonable to assume that, what the membership is not sufficiently interested in to transmit mutually over the wire, it is not interested in sufficiently to pub- lish in a periodical. The claim is made that, by the use of so many names in the notes, people have been brought together from distant points, and it is very probable that such asser- tions are correct on a very small scale. But the very few requests printed in the 'Personal Mention department for ad- dresses, does not indicate enough anxiety along that line to justify the monthly pub- lication of a directory for that purpose. To continue along that path would be sim- ilar to a baker distributing cakes by al- lowing his horse to run away. It might put cakes into many homes that other- wise would not have them, yet the method is a pretty costly one to insist upon fol- lowing. Repeatedly correspondents have been observed complaining of the unwilling* ness of the membership to forward notes, and on one occasion just recently a corre- spondent published his resignation on that account. The membership doesn’t care to amuse itself, and wants to be told something it doesn’t know, which is worth knowing. There is no reason why a craft of the intelligence of our own, cannot fur- nish better material in the Fraternal Col- umns than we do. We have had sufficient experience with railroad bulletins to re- frain from reprinting them in the Jour- nal. Good composition can be had by contradicting autocratic newspaper state- ments against organized labor, and re- Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 191 writing them until something printable is obtained. This is not a move to abol- ish any department of the magazine. It is specifically a move to “Change the News.” Cert. 1386. APPLICATION OF THE GOLDEN RULE. I want to say that I agree fully with all that has been said about agents not get- ting paid for the responsibility they have. There is npt enough difference between an operator’s pay and an agent's pay. For instance, my hours rate is 62^4 cents, with 30 minutes overtime daily, two calls per Sunday, making my monthly wage about $155. The night operator on another road here made about $150 in December, and all he does is to expense a few bills and sell a few tickets and copy a few orders. My helper’s regular wage is $115. We are surely entitled^ to an equaliza- tion of some sort. I cannot agree with all that has been said about government ownership. While it is true we have fared better under gov- ernment ownership than we did under private ownership, what assurance have we that things will continue as they are? Let us take as an example the postal em- ployes. They have had an eight-hour day for years in theory, but they have not bad it in fact. They have been worked twelve and sixteen hours because the post- master general wanted to make a “show- ing” and keep his expense down. Might we not expect that a Congress may be elected some time which would be decidedly hostile to labor and nullify at a stroke the bulk of advantages we have received from the government? The government is notoriously wasteful. Is it not a fact that a slight letting up of the economy practiced by railroad man- agers would more than offset the saving which it is claimed could be effected through government ownership, thereby saving the dividends now paid to capital? I think capital and labor should en- deavor to see their community of inter- ests. They should be friends and not en- emies. What is to the advantage of one is to the advantage of both. It is true capital has made blunders in the past, but so has labor. I think a conscientious application of the Golden Rule would solve many of the problems which con- front us to-day. Cert. 2232. “HALT! WHO GOES THERE?” Surely an octopus! For he seems to have enough work around him to make even an octopus dizzy! My comments refer to the article en- titled “The Trick Operator,” written by Cert 75, in the December issue. It reads like a fairy tale that would find its class in the stone hatchet age. But it is amazing to find a good Brother in this late day whose point of vision is so perverted by overworking that he does not realize he is scabbing. That is a harsh term to apply, but quite . appropriate, I think, in this case. We are quick to complain about train- men scabbing on us by taking their own train orders. We growl ominously when we hear (very rarely on this division) a night helper or some station clerk cut in on the dispatcher’s phone and perform some service strictly in the telegrapher's line, thus depriving a telegrapher of a po- sition or perhaps a call. We are surely justified In our complaint in both cases; but, first of all, we must be consistent if we would be dealt with consistently. In other words: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Bro. Cert. 75, do you know you are scabbing? Well, you are! You are doing the work that belongs to a clerk, or an- other operator — and you are doing it for NOTHING! Depriving a good brother, who is going around begging for work, of the means of a livelihood. Digitized by A-ooQle

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192 The Railroad Telegrapher. I am unable to determine whether you are bragging about the vast amount of work you can do in eight hours or com- plaining of being a slave. I do not advo- cate shirking; I deplore It. The shirker belongs to the parasite class, not to a labor union. Doing your duty is one thing; submit- ting to slavery is another. An operator is primarily hired and sent out to do the work pertaining to the movement of trains, i. e., receive and d* liver train orders; handle messages— even W. U. messages are better than doing clerical work covered by another schedule. He should do bis class of work first and do it to the best of his ability; thereafter he may exercise his skill on other work, but not to the extent of overworking himself. If you are asked to do more work than any competent operator can consistently and safely do— decline to do it; use all the wits and diplomacy you possess in de- clining and avoid friction if possible. Remember, the Superintendent and the President of the road get their fine sala- ries for using their wits and good judg- . ment, not for the amount of work they can grind out. But if you cannot avoid trouble because you refuse to be a meek slave— do not let it intimidate you; have faith in yourself, your cause, and your organization. You are bound to win! This is not theoretical, I write from experience. I have had quite a few “roasts” and have made decent po* sitions of them. It is up to us to main- tain the dignity of the telegraph field and make the positions fair and decent ones. Let us hear more comments about “un- consciously scabbing.” While we are weeding gardens elsewhere let us keep our own clean. Cert. 816, Div. 54. A SUBJECT FOR THOUGHT. I am trying to relieve myself as much as possible by trying to let others in on my worries and help me shoulder Borne of it— as I blow clouds of smoke ceiling- ward from my old corncob filled with Prince Albert my mind drifts back to some of the old days not so very long ago, either, when I was handling Western Union work in connection with my R. R. work during truck season, and I recall the amount of business done for the West- ern Union Telegraph Company was ap- proximately $800 a month — $62.50 was the amount of cash handled. Therefore my “salary” from the handling of Western Union business was $6.25. Now you all can imagine how grateful and “tickled to death” I was to receive this amount in consideration for handling this business, which only consumed from six to eight hours a day of my time, and there is no need for me to enter Into details as all old operators realize I am not exaggerat- ing the hours of duty when $800 a month business is taken In consideration. Some months ago I read an article which stated the amount in percentage it cost the Western Union Telegraph Com- pany to do business — and to the best of my remembrance it was 5V» per cent and i to stamp this amount better on your memory, say that out of every dollar paid into the Western Union Telegraph Co. — 94 y2 cents is profit If these figures are in error I am not far wrong, possibly a matter of a fraction of a cent or whole cent at most. How the corporation above mentioned can expect to remain in business consid- ering the fact they are only getting 94% cents out of every dollar paid In to their authorized agents, is a puzzle to me. As my old pipe is still smoking I dream of the days when I was learning telegraphy (and I haven't learned yet), and wonder to myself if I would have been as optimistic as I was then If I could have looked into the future and realized that when I became able to han- dle a Western Union business of $800 a month, that corporation would allow me Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher 193 16.25 a month for my knowledge and time. “Some generosity” is the only available term I can think of at present until the clouds roll by and I am able to see and think more clearly. I dislike to recall euch unpleasant re- membrances and scientists tell us that thinking shortens one's life, but in view of the fact that I either, don't think enough or am incapable of it — I can't see where my health is becoming impaired, but for the love of goodness let's do some- thing to remedy this “unnecessary evil'* by requesting an adjustment of existing conditions and ask for a straight com- mission on all business done for this corporation, with a fixed minimum. Isn't this request in line with the views of the boys along the line? I believe I am voicing the sentiments as I hear them expressed time after time by those of our profession, and as I am not a believer in “close communion,” think that such topics as the above should and can be handled to the mutual benefit ofy all concerned openly and aboveboard, and cannot figure out where any criminal in- tent is displayed when we request a hear- ing into the merits of our contention. Cert. 2464, Div. 15. Digitized by Googk

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FRATERNAL NOTICE All items for this department must be in the hands of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer on or before the 25th day of the month in order to insure their insertion in the following issue. New York, N. Y., Div. 44. Long Island Railroad — Forty-two members attended our last reg- ular meeting held in Jamaica, January 10th. It is pleasing to note that every month we have four and five new applicants, due to the good work of our w’orthy chief and the other hustling members. The drive is now on to outdo the work of last year. The 450 mark has been passed and the officer^ and members are to be thanked for their efforts to abolish the non on the Long Island road. Seventh Vice-President Ross delivered a forceful and pleasing address, touching at considerable length upon the various matters pertaining to our schedule negotiations, in which the membership in general is most interested at this time, together with other important legislative matters. Through his untiring efforts and sound advice these ne- gotiations were brought to a successful ter- mination, and we all extend him our appre- ciation and thanks for his valuable serv- ices. As soon as the agreement is printed every member will be mailed a copy. The Ladies' Auxiliary held its last meeting at the residence of Sister Aitken. We ask all the members to attend and not miss a meet- ing this year. Our books show a healthy condition. To keep the good work up every member is asked to give their best support. Progress travels like an airship ; it has to keep going or fall. The Auxiliary wishes a prosperous New Year to all. There are some towermen who are not giv- ing their best efforts toward efficiency. Re- member, brothers, any of you who are dis- ciplined for neglect of auty, or not doing the work for which vou are paid for, has a very poor excuse and will have no grievance if suspended. Let me urge you to do your work in a careful manner so that it will be a credit to the organization. The management has accorded us fair treatment and we should endeavor to show that we are deserving of it Report trains promptly, do not sleep on duty or stop trains, leave a clean fire for your re- lief and at all times be ready to co-operate with the train dispatcher so as to have no cause for complaints. Would like to see all the brothers and sis- ters get "annual cards." I believe this would solve the delinquent question, which costs our division much more than you have any idea. It will also materially cut down, the secretary and treasurer’s work. Let us have more "annual cards" in this division than ever before. P. T. Mackin, Cert 204. Pittsburgh, Pa., Div. 52. Pittsburgh & Lake Erie R. R. — Bro. Allen, while visiting his home in Peo- ria, 111., was relieved by Bro. Phillips, who was later off* sick, Bros. Keadle and O’Neill doing a 12-hour stunt until relieved by Tow- erman Sweeney. Bro. Vance was off two days sick. Bros. Law and Piersol doing 12-hour stunts. Bro. C. C. Campbell attended our last meeting in 1919 and gave a very interesting talk. We hope he will come often. We are always glad to see and hear him. Attend the meetings, brothers and sisters, and keep in touch with what is being done. There is always something new coming up. All those on first and third tricks should be able to attend with our present train service. We ■want any brothers or sisters not working to attend, also the new members, as we want to get acquainted with them. The time and place of meeting is given in the directory in the back part of The Telegrapher. It would not do the brothers and sisters on the Mon Division any harm to ride No. 64 two nights a month, or those on Yough Division to ride the B. & O. and attend our meetings. "XN" Rankin first and second reopened by Bros. Costello and Mathews, respectively. It is now Bro. Van Leer. Brothers and sisters, line up the few nons and have them help us maintain that we have already got through the direct efforts of the O. R. T. Understand Bro. Wingett has gone to France to marry a French maiden. We all wish him success. Operator Kelly, just back from the army, to New Castle Junction, Bro. Pitzer to "WA” Tower, Bro. Johnson to McKees Rock, and Bro. Bilderback to "RH" days. The new agreement shows quite a num- ber of new positions. Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 195 Bro. Gaskill, “PO” Tower, is on the sick list Bro. St Clair relieving. Understand Bros. Bowman and Gibbons, E V. Junction, and Secretary-Treasurer Bees are interested in McKeesport gas stock. CERT. 761. Washington, D. C., Div. 60. “Hn General Relay — Manager Bailey returned after a four months* leave and promptly bid in for an- other two months. He was not the only one figuring on a furlough. Trying to do two men’s work for the sake of a dollar isn’t exactly what it’s cracked up to be, consider- ing the heaps of praise and credit we usually get for our efforts. The second trick got an- other man, but understand he is soon to be cut off. Boys, keep strictly up-to-date. Our or- ganization is fast nearing the 85,000 mark, but let's keep on going ahead. No excuse for none now whatever. We’re through preaching to them ; it’s either join or paddle your own canoe. This office is still solid, wen to our telephone operators. Bro. Runkle, who has been acting manager, recently became a benedict, and was pre- sented with a handsome wedding gift from the boys. Bra Mason is back again after several weeks’ illness. Bro. Bruchey, now doing time on B. A O. 61, is casting longing glances in the direction of the “D” Wilmington wire. Bro. Morton will soon be the big chief on second trick. He knows the secret of moving business. Bro. Coe works “PO” until “PU” busts things up, then “PO” works him. Bro. Beckley is through teaching on the P. B. A W. They all seem to recognize the code now when they hear it. Bra G. S. Nolan, again elected for third trick manager for the next two months, misses his old friend “VN” at “MO.” With the coupling up of 61 wire to the dis- patcher’s office, the commander in “GO” Bal- timore at last realizes that “DO” is still on the map and 61 wasn’t being held open for a Joke before it was cut through. Understand he has opened negotiations for a special wire to “DO.” We all trust he will get it. Bra Pitcher, our jack of all trades and master of Tom Dent, has returned from a visit to friends in New York. Bro. E. L. Price has a new bug, but it won’t “OS” trains for him. Bro. Marquette makes frequent trips to Harpers Ferry, reads the News advertise- ments, then calls it off for a later date. Bra Rourke still visits Baltimore. We used to know, but now? Bro. Umbaugh is smiling broadly since he made that clean up at Bowie. Mr. Lee, the only non on the whole divir fchm, continues to loll along as a non. Lei him loll. .Some day he may again see the light. Bro. Williams, our lineman, recently en- joyed a trip to Wilmington, N. C., where he installed the new duplex. The wire chief at “RD" now has a life time job adjusting it for the boys. No notes from K. C. or A. Towers. Hope to get a line or two from them for the next issue. Cert. 80. Chicago, III., Div. 91. Chicago and Western Indiana R. R. — On October 16th, 1919, our schedule of wages and working conditions was signed by our General Superintendent Stevens, and we have every reason to feel highly pleased with the results of patiently waiting many long months and through various negotiations. While we did not get all we asked for, we have the basic principles to build from and Improve upon from time to time. A conserv- ative method of procedure Is the $afest and gets you the farthest in the long run. Every member has an opportunity to make known his grievance and if a Just one it will be taken before the management to be straightened out. Every hour overtime means so much more in your pocket. Newly created positions and vacancies will be advertised. New positions recently created : 40th and 16th Street Towers, operators and assistant levermen, 7 a. m. to 3 p. m., and 3 p. m. to 11 p. m., respectively, advertised in accord- ance with Section B of Article VI, and bid in 40th street, H. C. Zimmerman, 7 a. m. to 3 p. m., and Owen Finnegan, 3 p. m. to 11 p. m. ; at 16th street, Ed. Stevens, 7 a. m. to 3 p. m., and George Fields, temporary, 3 p. m. to 11 p. m. 59th and 47th Street Towers, vacated by Zimmerman and Finne- gan, are advertised. Everything is coming out fine. Thanks to Mr. Jacobs and Bro. Bob. Bro. Shafer, “get after the lawyer,” don’t forget the doctor has not made his “23” yet, and look up a few others who are willing to take the money and let the other fellow pay the freight. Go after them, crack 'er up to 100 per cent or 103 per cent, counting the extra men. Get your oil can, the machinery Is. all set; put your shoulder to the wheel, open the throttle, and let her go. Would like to hear from some of the brother block operators. Please ’phone or forward your notes for The Railroad Telegrapher to Bro. Grotts at 47th Street Tower, and they will be given prompt attention. Cert. 49. Virginia, Minn., Div. 127. Duluth , Missabe <fr Northern Ry .— The meeting held at Alborn, Minn., Jan. 11th, was well {attended considering the Digitized by VjUUyiL

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196 The Railboad Telegrapheb. weather conditions. Important matters were discussed. Bro. A. A. Jordan has returned to Yard Office from W. U., Seattle, Wash. Bro. and Sister Graves expect to return from the Pacific Coast in the spring. Bros. P. R. Lowe, cashier Bovey ; A. W. Anderson, cashier Steelton, and G. P. Dover, clerk-operator Taconite, winter months posi- tions. Bros. O. S. Brown, Hull Junction; C. A. Lindrud, Iron Junction, and Bro. W. F. Her- man, cashier Missabe Junction, resigned, lat ter succeeded by Bro N. R. Miller of Steelton. Bro. H. J. Fiola Is now cashier at Sharon. No notes received of any changes since close of the ore season. v Bro. P. R. Lowe relieved Bro. J. L. Mc- Carthy, agent Meadowlands, several weeks on account of illness of his wife, whom we are glad to learn is reported recovering. Sis- ter Betty Lund is reported improving and we hope for her speedy recovery. Bro. C. A. Lindrud’s wife is reported on the sick list, also Bro. Dr. Allies’ wife. Bro. C. J. Keenan, at Minneapolis, Minn., has recovered from a nervous breakdown, and expects to return to duty in the spring. Bro. C. I. Campbell, visiting relatives at Warsaw, Indiana, will return about April 1st. Bro. C. P. Baker called to the jury at Ely. Pleasant picking at $3.00 per day, when the cost of living there is "one bone” more. The old slogans, "No card , no favors /' “Stay organized” rule supreme and apply to us all. It is very important that you attend every meeting possible to keep you in touch with the current actions of the committee, and the situation in general of the division. In future a record of members attending will be kept by the secretary. Brothers, pay your dues a year in ad- vance if possible. It is a benefit to both the division and yourself. Let every member keep up to date and remember his obliga- tions. Stand together as never before is the watchword. The real test of strength will come. soon. Read and understand the Plumb Plan as it really is, not as knocking propaganda makes it, and you will boost it. I would appreciate a few notes from the boys along the line. It is impossible to give a write-up without them. Cert. 52. Hamilton, Ont., Div. 155. Since the burning of Aberdeen yard office, Bros. Armstrong, Quinton and Phelan have taken up their official duties in a caboose. Bro. and Mrs. F. X. Desarmia, Stoney Creek, take this means of thanking the mem- bers for the beautiful floral offering sent them at the time of death of their beloved baby. The sympathy of the division is ex- tended to the bereaved parents. It is regretted that we have several “none” with us yet. Give them no rest until they are back in the fold, and remember the old slogan, “No card , no favors ” Your dues and M. B. D. assessments must be paid before Feb. 29th to keep in good standing. There is no better way to keep up the fra- ternal spirit of our organization than through these columns each month. Brothers, send me the news from your vicinity. I am sit- uated in a rather isolated section of the divi- sion and unable to keep in touch with all the happenings. Cert. 68. Grand Trunk Ry., Div. 1. London Division — Owing to the extreme cold and stormy weather only about fifteen members were present at the meeting held in London the evening of January 16th, mostly all from the West End. Considerable discussion arose in regard to the way the dispatchers were being paid at such points as Bridgeburg and Sahnia tun- nel, classed in our schedule as track super- visors. The company had refused at one time to have these men included in our schedule on the ground that they were dis- patchers and not operators. But on the re- vision of our last schedule, when dispatchers were included, the company ruled that these men were now classed as track supervisors notwithstanding that they issue train orders the same as regular dispatchers at Sarnia tunnel on an average of 50 to 70 a day. The question of supervising agents with no assigned hours was also brought up. In the present schedule these men were only paid the stated increase and only received as high as $180.00 to $195.00 back time. Having no assigned hours, they are subject to call any hour of the day or night, week days or Sun- days, and can never claim overtime, and it was shown where the agent at Chatham was called out at 11 p. m. to check stock over to another railway. Our attention was called to the hours of Sunday service, as the company is relieving the third trick man at 12 midnight Saturday. According to our schedule, at a continuously operated office the day closes at the end of the night trick. The first trick man at pres- ent starts to work on Saturday at 8 a. in., second trick man at 4 p. m. and third trick at 12 midnight. In this case the third trick would end at 8 a. m. Sunday and would finish the third trick man’s Saturday, there- fore the third trick man's Sunday would not start until 12 midnight Sunday and he should be relieved for his Sunday at 12 midnight on Sunday and not at 12 midnight Saturday. The company saves considerable overtime the way it is relieving the men now as most of the regular passenger trains and all of the way freights do not run on Sunday morn- ing, therefore by relieving the operator on Digitized by VjOCK^lC

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The Railroad Telegraphbb. 197 Saturday midnight they have the advantage of having him on for these trains on Monday morning* whereas if he was relieved on Sun- day night they would either have to call the first operator earlier than his usual hour Monday or keep the third trick man on and pay him overtime. Hie ruling and Interpretation of the arti- cle covering Sunday overtime states that If a telegrapher is required to come on duty two or three times In the forenoon and Is free In the afternoon he will be paid for a fall half day, while If he is required three or more times during the entire day he will be paid for a full day. If your hours on Sunday are 8 a. m. to 4 p. m. and you are called for duty on Sunday at 8 a. m., relieved at 10 a. m. and told to report again at 2 p. m., and relieved at 4 p. m., and should put In your ticket for a full Sunday’s pay it would probably be returned to you for cor- rection because the rule says three or more calls, and as you were only called twice dur- ing the day you are only entitled to actual time worked. I would suggest that this clause be changed, leaving the forenoon as at present shown In the schedule, but make the interpre- tation read, if he is called once in the fore- noon and once in the afternoon he will be paid for a full day, thus making it impos- sible for officials to twist the schedule around to suit themselves. If we would get together more at these meetings we would hear things discussed to good advantage and we would have such matters as I have noted brought to our atten- tion which we had never once thought of. Our committee expects to convene some time In February for the revision of a new schedule. Cert. 2503. Grand Trunk Pacific , McBride, B. O., to Rupert , B. C.— Bra H. R. Clarke from the C. N. R. re- lieved J. A. Phillips at Houstoh, who re- turned to the C. P. R* Bro. Frevelle opened the new agency at Usk, B. c. Bro. Scattabol, Prince Rupert, B. C., left for Winnipeg, January 7th, to attend a gen- eral meeting of the O. R. T. Understand we are to go in for a new schedule soon. Bro. Clarke, "WA” Smithers, is relieving him. Bra Hutchinson, ex-agent Pacific, now working as relief dispatcher at Smithers. Welcome to our city. Bro. E. C. Lytle, ex- dispatcher, went to third Prince George un- til a dispatching job opens. Bro. W. E. Pearl and wife have returned to Smithers after several months* visit with his parents in Toronto and Buffalo. Fd like the names of the nons on this divi- sion. If you know of one and are unable to land him, advise me and call for help. Pay your dues promptly, brothers. You can pay up for a year, get an annual card and save money. ' Let’s have your suggestions. Will see that they get in the Journal. Some brothers kindly send me a 1920 cal- endar. They are scarce in Smithers W. E. Pearl, Cert. 3341, Smithers, B. C., Canada. “Big Four” R. R-, Div. 3. O. U. D. Division — “George Washington in his farewell ad- dress solemnly warned his countrymen against the dangers of partisanship. There are still many persons who profess to see in the activity of political parties the cause of much misgovernment which troubles our country today.” — Thomas Harrison Reed. We are all Americans, and there is plainly no cause for opposing the good efforts of our fellow men because of a fanciful party af- filiation; nor is there much cause for any party affiliation. A cow would be the same thing, regardless of what else it might be called, and a fool on one political ticket is no better than a fool on any other ticket. It Is safe to say that better compliance with Washington’s warning would have greatly averted much of the present-day unrest and dissatisfaction. That the working people might have a source from which to secure information on political activity directly affecting the inter- ests of the worker, favoring no certain party, is of immense importance and was the cause of the founding of the Workingmen’s Politi- cal Information Bureau. It is strictly a union feature, and if working people are going to free themselves of the wrong inflicted by corporations through political channels, quick support must be given the bureau. Two di- visions knight go together in securing a sub- scription of a ten-dollar membership fee to the bureau, where one division is so small that it would draw too heavily on each indi- vidual. Local chairmen should sound the opinion of the membership on this subject and take action where approval permits. We are well on our way through a year which tends toward being one of great events, and possibly great changes. The union card never before reached the im- portance it holds today, and shall hold in the future. What the O. R. T. has accomplished for the C. U. D. is too much to mention. Don’t forget the duty you owe to yourself and brother men. Drv. Cor. Indianapolis Division — Let us all send a few notes to Local Chair- man Jenkins, so we can be represented in The Telegrapher every month. It’s a pleasure to read of the changes of one’s own division. We read of successful meetings of other divisions. Let’s arrange with our local chair- Digitized by Google

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198 The Railroad Telegrapher. man to call a meeting- at the most convenient place on this division and then every one at- tend, get acquainted and have a committee of three appointed to help Bro. Jenkins get in the few nons we have left. Bro. Roraaine, who went to Anderson De- pot second, was succeeded at Belt Junction by Bro. Welch, and Bro. Mauzy from Ander- son went to Chesterfield third. Bro. Eley, Gridley, on sick list, relieved by Hermon from the Canadian Northern. Bro. Kautzman, also on sick list, relieved by Bro. Williams. Bro. Moody, also sick, Bros. Fouts and Torrence, David, doubling. Sidney second and third opened. Miss Moontz on latter. Understand Agent Sullivan of Muncie is to be transferred to Sandusky City. These are both good agencies. Next time we go up for a new schedule let’s see that every agency Is included In it, so our brothers can have a chance to bid on them, as many are well qualified to handle any Job on the road. Bro. W. O. Sctty, Cert 293, and Mrs. W. H. Setty desire to thank the* members of Division 3 for their sympathy and kindness during the illness and death of our deceased brother, W. H. Setty, and especially for the beautiful floral offering. Grboo, Cert 924. C., St. P., M. & O. Ry., Div. 4. Nebraska Division — There seems to be some misunderstanding as to the interpretation of No. 8. It was not strictly a wage increase but rather compen- sation for Sunday and holiday time on roads paying the latter on January 1st, 1918. This road was not paying telegraphers, except those in general office, St. Paul, extra for holiday work ; but the rate of pay of an agent or telegrapher who put in only one \iour on Sundays was raised to a Just proportion with the man who put in eight hours on Sunday. The men who did not have any assigned Sun- day hours received no increased rate, be- cause he had nothing to receive it for. So without the Sunday hours to figure Into the method of arriving at the rate, there could be no change in it. Those who worked no assigned Sunday hours cannot expect to be paid anything under Interpretation No. 8, because it is purely a compensation for Sun- day and holiday time, and not an increase in pay in the strictest sense of the word. To have refused to accept the additional money that it gives to the various members, simply because of the differentials that It created, would have been the height of folly. There is no use in anyone complaining that they received nothing under Interpre- tation No. 8. A year or two ago we were all agreed that we did not want to do any Sunday work ; we would rather not have the overtime. Now a few grumblers’ complain because they cannot work Sundays and ob- tain a slightly higher rate of pay than what they now get by not working Sundays. “Con- sistency,” said someone, “thou art a Jewel.” There are several new men on the division whose membership status has not as yet been ascertained. Every member should make it his business to find out whether newcomers are up to date or not, and if not, explain the necessity of solid organization and what solidity has done for this division. Cert. 305. M1M St. Paul Relay— Bro. W. A. Pribil is on temporary ninth. Some of the brothers did not bid on per- manent eighth position on account of having homes where they are located at present and do not like to make the change. Bro. T. F. Bagan, being relieved for sev- eral months by Bro. Head, will visit Los Angeles, Cal. Mornings when the thermome- ter is below zero, we wish we were with him. Bro. Wry from the Eastern Division is work- ing extra in “A” while Bro. Bagan is away. It's a little late to be telling it, but I find a great many do not know that Bro. Holm- berg was married last June to Sister Stella Supensky, second Org, Minn., a heavy relay point on the Western Division, and “he gvt a peach.” Bro. Holmberg relieved Bro. Kvool in “GY” several days while the latter was nursing a severe cold. “N.,” Cert 250. Minnesota Division — Bro. B. J. Funk, second Mankato, also Mrs. Funk on the sick list, Bro. W. F. Walker re- lieving. Sister Coaker, Mendota second, re- lieved by Bro. Robt Beyer on account of illness. Bro. A. LIcht has gone to Org agency and Bro. A. J. Johnson to second Kasota, lat- ter relieved by Miss J. M. Williams at Bige- low. Bro. A. H. Tilma, agent at Miloma for many years, owing to successful ventures in real estate last year, has resigned. We con- gratulate him on the prosperity he has at- tained. Sisters A. Peterson and Walvoord of Min- neopa and Molner of Ottawa came to Man- kato recently to see the Winter Carnival preparations. Bro. P. W. Mynard relieved Bro. C. A Hendricks, first Le Sueur, while he attended the Safety First meeting at St James and made a short stay at Currie. Bro. Harry Severson and mother of Blue Earth were In Mankato, January 17th. New members : A. M. Johnson, C. N. Frank, G. J. Lang, F. E. Weston, S. A Sorenson and T. J. Huss, whom we are glad to welcome to our ranks. H. Bromander, Savage ; J. H. Nelson, Adrian ; Geo. Klee- man, Avoca; W. F. DeMuth, Heron Lake; O. A. Iverson, Wilder; A. G. Jansraa, Beaver Creek ; L. O. Nervig, St Peter ; J. C. Gadawa, Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 199 Merriam ; Allen Burdick, Mitchell ; -L. M. Lendway and several new ones are still out Several of the first mentioned are old timers, some receiving as high #as 7 cents an hour increase with the application of Interpreta- tion No. 8 and back pay based on this 7 cents an hour for past 14 months ; still al- lowing us to pay for these benefits. Send your Journals to them so they can see what we think about their continued silence, and keep after them continually. Interpretation No. 8 caused business to pick up. General Chairman Liddane’s circu- lar letter January 1st explained affairs thor- oughly, which caused a decrease in our cor- respondence. We are anxiously waiting to hear good news from Washington. Bro. M. I. Christenson, Worthington first, accompanied Company “F,” State Militia, to International Falls, relieved by Bro. R. Holmes. Sister Mahon, Sioux Falls second, visiting her mother In Minneapolis, relieved Sister Slotowski. Bro. Lenz of Montrose has taken his wife to the Rochester doctors. Sister Blanchard has returned to third Sioux Falls after several weeks’ absence, ow- ing to sickness. Bra G. V. Cook, Windom second in Cali- fornia, relieved by Sister B. M. Anderson. We regret to learn of the death of the mofter of Bro. J. M. Linehan of Heron Lake. Sympathy of the telegraphers is extended. Sister Pfaff relieved Bro. O. S. Mann a few days on account of sickness in his family at Bingham Lake. Cert. No. 8. Union Pacific R. R., Div. 6. Kansas Division— It’s now Bro. McElvaine at St. Mary, thanks to Bro. Nickel. Bros. May at Hollis and Johnson at Garrison are the latest re- cruits on the division. McPherson Branch is. solid, largely due to our hustling brother at Assarla, who Is re- joicing over the completion of the new depot there. The writer is ticking out this little spasm in a new depot, also recently com- pleted. Bro. White, who has given up his rights to Lindsborg agency for a smaller station, was relieved by Bro. Wilson, relief agent Western Division. Bro. White is back at Lindsborg after a aick spell. Anyone desiring to make a change, write to Bro. W. M. Stuart, Wallsatch, Utah, who wants to move to K&nsas, where he can put his children In school. Bro. Anderson, Frankfort second, relieved by Bro. Presgrove ten days. Bro. G. W. Carson, agent at Salina, has Purchased 85 acres of California land, which he expects to develop into an almond orchard. A number of others have invested and are figuring on a home in California. Bro. C. E. Hinkle is relieving Bro. Dickin- son, Winifred. Bro. Mansfield has returned from his va- cation to Concordia. R. O. Green, just back from the navy, took Emmett second. Local Chairman Hook was elected a mem- ber of the committee to build a $200,000 Ma- sonic Temple at Manhattan. Bro. Carr has passed examination for dis- patcher. We all wish him success. Bro. Crose of Wilson is In Kansas City, undergoing an operation, relieved by Bra Mohler. Bro. Walters is at **GN” Kansas City. Bro. Brenner visiting at Soldier several days. Bro. Gresham relieved Bro. Collins, man- ager Manhattan, while he spent Christmas at Olsburg. The three negroes who robbed Cleburne depot of two dollars, a pair of overalls and the agent’s cap, were caught at Stockdale and drew seven years apiece. We are won- dering what Bro. Femstrom was wearing when so much of his wardrobe was stolen. Relay work at Salina has been put back on “SC” now after being handled at “DI” for a few weeks. Nos. 134 and 133 are now stopping at Lucas for breakfast and supper, instead of Natoma and Sylvan Grove. Remember, boys, and keep after that non, regardless of where you find him, until he signs up. Two brothers remembered what a job it is for one man to get all the news and sent me a few notes this time. Many thanks. Come again. Would like to hear from someone on the Solomon Branch. Mail your notes to me at Beverly before the 16th of each month, sure. "RD,” Cert. 333. Nebraska Division — Bro. Holbrook, recently relieving Bro. Douglas at Cozad, now relieving Bro. Elder at Miller. Bro. Getsford, relieving Agent Gard at Overton for several months, is now second phoner at “GE” Grand Island. Bro. Free- man, while on sick list there, was relieved by Bro. Rumpeltes, first phoner. Bro. Lambert, relieving on third Gothen- burg, was relieved by Sister Hill, and re- lieved Bro. Hansen at Shelton, on leave. Bro. Root, who relieved Bro. Lane at Kearney during the holidays, went to Pleas- anton. Bro. Langenneger, agent Odessa was called home by the serious illness of his father. Bros. Plank, Byrne, Cook, Loucks, Uphoff and Hannum attended the Grand Island O. S. & D. meeting. Digitized by Google

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200 The Railroad Telegrapher. Chief Porter, Grand Island, has gone to Cheyenne as dispatcher on account of his health. He has our best wishes for his per- manent recovery. H. P. Wiig, out of railroading for a year, is prospering in the mercantile business at Sutherland. Dist. Cor. Colorado Division — Bro. Locker, agent Menlo, relieved by Bra Holmdale 60 days, has taken his wife to Kansas City for her health. Bro. M. J. Walker gave up third Brighton for Denver “UD” extra, relieved by Bro. Strickland ; Bro. Pounds, bumped there, re- turned to Sharon Springs. Bro. Cashmore, "UD,” formerly from Ogden, spent a few days there recently, visiting relatives. Bro. Shaw, “UD,” visited In Wakeeney several days, and Bro. Steadman, "UD,” Is visiting his sifters and friends in Louisiana for 60 days. Bro. Fritts of .Wakeeney was in Denver during the holidays. Bros. Lummis and Blackman of Oakley spent a few days there recently, and Bowlin of La Salle, relieved by Bro. Copley, is taking medical treatment there. Bro. Edwards is on a trip back East; also Bro. Hull man, agent Crook, 30 days. The latter to see his wife, who has been sick for several months. Bro. Jim Dunlap, relieved on second Carr by Bro. Peterson, has gone to Alabama, ow- ing to the serious illness of his father. Tricks pulled off : Second and third Crook ; Bro. Peterson to second Cheyenne Wells, and Bro. Holmdale back to extra. Second Orchard ; Bro. R. H. Walker to third Wa- keeney ; later succeeded by Bro. Dolph. Third Dent; Bro. Bailey to third Kit Carson, vice Bro. Cunningham ; and third St. Vraine, vice Bro. Urie ; two latter back to extra ; Bro. Urie relieving Bro. Merrl weather, second Eaton, a few days, on account of sickness. I have Just recently been appointed cor- respondent of this division and will greatly appreciate the co-operation of all. Mail any notes you may have to W. C. Etheridge, Box 662, Brighton, Colo. Western Division — We had a very interesting talk with Local Chairman Davis when he was in Evanston in January, conferring with the chief dis- patcher relative local grievances, and feel that we are extremely fortunate to have a man of his ability representing this divi- sion. Bro. Geo. Rennie, lineman Evanston, for- tunately escaped uninjured recently when his motor car was damaged by jumping the track. Bro. A. J. Piers, Evanston, has been pro- moted to train dispatcher, and we are all pleased at his success. Bro. Wm. S. Whittaker, Evanston, is off on account sickness. The W. U. has moved its Evanston office uptown. Bro. Mike F. McNarara, Rawlins, who spent Xmas at his wife's home in Kearney, has been called back there, owing to the seri- ous illness of his mother-in-law. Bro. Chas. Collins, Gateway, who recently returned from vacation in Kansas and Cali- fornia and bid in a trick at Rawlins, is tak- ing osteopathic treatments In Denver for misplaced vertebrae. Thomas Jerome Riley, “from the Milwau- kee,” at Point of Rocks and Rawlins recently, has gone to Omaha, and Pearl M. Campbell, S. P., from Rawlins to Tipton. Millard F. Pierce, a new man at Rawlins, is filling out his application papers. L. B. JunieL Rock Springs, bacjc from the Navy since June bidding in Green River, has no card. Rawlins was made a general headquarters doing a record-breaking business, for about three weeks in December, occasioned by Gen- eral Manager Jeffers and General Superin- tendent Hammill being marooned here during the worst blizzard in the history of the state. Bros. Farrah and Lacy, Green River, went home for the holidays Bro. S. B. Dunn, agent Carter, was in the hospital a few days recently, the reeuft of sixteen hours’ work. Bro. W. E. Hall, Division 3, on an ex- tended furlough from the Navy, Is working extra on the Eighth and Ninth Districts. I wish to thank the Rawlins bunch for the notes they contributed, and wish more of the brothers would send in some items, so we could have a complete write-up each month. Drv. Cob. Canadian Pacific Ry.f Div. 7. Alberta Division — A well-attended meeting was held at Medicine Hat, December 21st. 1919, called to order at 14. 3 OK by Bro. Hamblin; Bro. Don- ald appointed secretary. Several motions were passed in relation to schedule negotiations. Bro. J. F. Johnson was appointed cor- respondent for The Telegrapher, and meet- ing adjourned at 18.30K Brothers present were; Wheeler, Clarke# McFarlane, Dailey, Spackman, Vigar, Chap- man, Stock, Morrill, Halliday, T. R. and F. R. Reeves, Donald, McKay, Paoe, Foley and Jardine. Bro. G. A. Davidson, our popular chief, has returned from Vancouver, where he spent Xmas and New Year’s at his home. He tells us the bathers are not as numerous at Eng- lish Bay as usual this winter, and seems quite satisfied wltu the weather we are hav- Digitized by L.ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 201 lag here now; relieved by Bro. A. EX Me- ImmnnH Bra H. T. MacDonald returned from his home in Maine* where he has been spending the past three months. He was very suc- cessful on several hunting trips and has a bear and several deer to his credit, and is still living alone. Bro. T. H. Hamblin* who went to Winni- peg as one of the schedule committee* re- lieved by Brof McDonald, has returned. We already have that 131 per cent increase over 1914 salaries in sight. Bro. Davis* a new man* went to Webb third. Bro. Welsmiller, Maple Creek, made a trip recently to Regina* to bp interviewed by the pension board. “Bill” don't need the money now, but it might come in handy later on. Bro. McDonnell* Shepard, confined in Cal- gary hospital for some time, was given a very pleasant surprise at Xmas — a purse of $140.00. Boys, I am at a disadvantage trying to keep a home and working second trick. Any news items for next write-up will be ap- preciated. Southesk and Tilley, west end, closed as night telegraph offices. Bro. Key from Southesk to Red cliff second. Business fallen off considerably since first of year and road back to normal again. The rush was certainly good while it lasted, and our dispatchers have all added a few gray hairs. Cert. 1290. Sastotchewan D4st., Saskatoon Div. — Our meeting held in Saskatoon on December 21st, only fairly well attended. All were pleased to have General Chairman Gilbert with us. Other brothers present : Local Chairman McOrmond, Hick, Houston, Dick- son, Noonan, Collins, Holdsworth, Winter, Nixon, Cordingley, Henderson, Francis, Obrien, Hamilton and Kaumeyer. We regret that Local Chairmen Barry and Cheney were usable to attend. A ten per cent representation of the mem- bership of our division present at such an important meeting does not seem to signify \ very deep interest. Those who attended were well repaid for coming, as numerous questions of importance were discussed and some interesting Information given. Bros. Gilbert and McOrmond spoke on cur- rent problems that are confronting us at this time, and are to be commended for their stand on these matters. Bro. McOrmond left on January 4th for Winnipeg, to represent this division at the general chairmen's meeting. We are glad to hear Tld back at “W.” Baldy, at **RY.” gave us a pleasant sur- prise when he arrived home, January 7th, with his bride* and all join In wishing them tong life, much joy and happiness. Bro. Goodwin of “F" office also sprung a surprise on us all when he returned after a supposed business trip to Calgary tuttA a bride. The best of wishes to Bro. and Mrs. Goodwin. There is now a commercial telegraph branch office in the depot at Saskatoon. Bro. Waterman has resigned and left for the U. S. The Lord helps those who help themselves, and you are certainly helping yourself when you take a sincere Interest in the O. R. T. Brothers, mall your questionnaires promptly to Bro. Gilbert. They are most im- portant to him in dealing with our require- ments in the future. Bro. Watts is now dispatching at Biggar, on the G. T. P. Our grand secretary and treasurer, Bro. Rawlins* is to be highly commended for his arrangement whereby Canadian brothers can remit Mutual Benefit dues without payment of the. heavy exchange rate existing be- tween Canadian and U. S. funds. Now Is the time for all the boys to get in their applications for vacation. It is with regret that we learn of the ill- ness of Mrs. Hick, and hope for her speedy and complete recovery. Cert. 2800. Montreal Terminals — The meeting held in the Grand Union, Mon- treal, December 28th, was the best attended for years. The schedule was gone into, item by item, and several amendments made. One of the principal subjects taken up was the proper remuneration for the Terminals men compared with the same class of work on main line. The difference is against ub, while it should be otherwise, and we were promised that this would be looked into and straight- ened out in the next schedule. The matter of all towers In the Terminals being under the schedule was taken up and the general chairman asked to look Into it. The assistant agents were also represented, most of them coming from Highlands, which Is 100 per cent strong. Their case was vigor- ously taken up, especially for more remuner- ation in comparison with other stations out- side of the Terminals. The meeting was presided over by Local Chairman Laporte, who attended the con- vention at Winnipeg during the month. Bro. Potvin, assistant general chairman, as our guest, gave a few interesting re- marks, and we had a short visit from Bro. Madge, North Troy. We were all glad to see Bro. Gardner at the meeting. He worked hard for a few changes which did not all carry. However, we must thank him for his several remarks, and hope he will continue his write-up, started a few months ago. We like to read them. Our old timers In the Terminals have nut attended a few meetings. Are they too busy? Digitized by VjOOQle

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202 The Railroad Telegrapher. The men at Adirondack Jet should make their station 100 per cent by enlisting their assistants, as other stations are trying to get them into the fold. The Highlands as- sistants are getting after them. This matter should: be brought up at the next meeting. Bro. Papillon. Highlands, was relieved a few days by Bro. A. J. Lefebvre. Bro. Benaud's holidays trip was delayed indefinitely by the storm. Bro. Foumer was ofT on account of his wife’s illness. We are glad to hear of her recovery. Brothers, get after the non at Ballantyne and those at O. A., and Bro. Morin, at “JCC” Cartier Jet, should get his station 100 per cent strong. That old timer now delinquent. Let us hear the results of your efforts. We want them all in. Bro. Mahon is now father of a girl. Con- gratulations. Bro. Perreault, South Jet., on a few days’ trip to Joliette, was relieved by Gaucher, a new man. Cert. 8511. New York Central R. R., Div. 8. Syracuse Division — Our joint meeting, held at Rochester, Jan- uary 2nd, was attended by 32 members at the morning session and 45 in the evening; Gen- eral Secretary and Treasurer Mansell acting as chairman of both. Other officials present were : Local Chairman Delhart, P. R. R., ; General Chairman Leh and Local Chairman Conlin, Buffalo Division L. V. R. R. The talks by each officer were interesting, and those who failed to attend missed a treat Letters regretting their inability to be present were read from General Secretary and Treasurer Crane of the Lehigh, and our general chairman, Bro. Morey, the latter be- ing detained by business In New York City. Some of the brothers and sisters living right in Rochester did not attend either of the meetings, and of the seven brothers working in Churchville not one was present. We are going to hold meetings in Roches- ter at 10 :30 a. m. and 8 :S0 p. m. the first Friday of each month, at 77 West Main street, over Fay’s Theatre. Should this be changed each member will be notified. Our committee is back from New York, and Bros. Mansell and Morey will give us the news. We have an orchestra of seven pieces train- ing for these meetings, and once you hear us "jazz” a couple of numbers like “Alex- ander’s Band is Back in Dixie’’ or “Every- body Shimmie Now,” you will never miss an- other one. Sister Covell, Port Gibson, was relieved by J. Quinn, and Bro. P. L. Hovey, your scribe, by Bro. Hounsell, while they attended the Rochester meetings on January 2nd. Bro. Ed Howell, “SS35” Bergen days, who would have been pensioned January 1st, left the tower as usual at 4 :00 p. m. and died at home half an hour later. Although he was an old man, when there was talk of a strike and he was locked out several years ago, knowing he might never be able to secure another position if the boys lost out, he stuck by the O. R. T. A number of the brothers attended the funeral, also Trainmaster Olp, for whom Bro. Howell used to work. Sister Rose Tilton, third Pittsford, visited friends in Syracuse recently. Bro. Jack Skinner, third Lyons Jet. ; Bro. Wm. Potta, second “SS20,’’ and Bro. Lawler, Churchville. Conn., off account sickness lat- ter two relieved by Bro. Ward Beaman and Bro. Saft, respectively. Bro. Grimes, “SSI 6“ Newark, was relieved ten days by Bro. Whitney. Sisters E. O. Hessen thaler and Weller, at Amboy, and Sisters A. R. Wheeler and V. N. Tilton, at Wayne port, have changed tricks. Bro. Van Vooris, Seneca River, and Bro. Stauring, Clyde, relieved during the holidays by Bro. Craigville, and Bro. Van De Karr same time, while visiting his parents, was relieved by Bro. Koch, Wheatville, relieved by Sister Ott. Bro. Phil Kennedy, Pittsford, on a trip South, relieved by Sister Rose Tilton. Sister L. A. Taft has returned to Port Gibson after two weeks spent at her home in East Bloomfield, relieved by W. W. Hough, a new man. Bro. Jim Garraghan; Churchville, and Johnnie Parton, Wheatville, in Syracuse three days attending Investigation, relieved by Bro. Hounsell and Mr. Sayers, respec- tively. Brothers and sisters, help to get in the few nons, and remember our motto, “No card j no favors ” Bro. Rawlins advises that on account of Government restriction he was obliged to discontinue printing assignments, in memo- riams, cards of thanks and vacations, so you will understand why such notes have been eliminated recently from our write-ups. Those who have not paid your dues yet remember that on March 1st you will be delinquent. Pay up for a year If possible and get an annual card, which reduces the work of both the grand and division officials as well as the expenses of both the grand and system divisions. Remember that your $6.00 goes to Bro. Mansell at Carfur, N. Y., and your insur- ance to Bro. Rawlins, St Louis, Mo. Don’t get this mixed up for it makes a lot of ex- tra work for Bro. Mansell and means extra expense to our division. Hovey A Tilton, Div. Cor. Rochester Division — We are indebted to Bros. Carris, Halfway and Norton and Sennett, second Carmer and Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 203 second Seneca Falls, for the greater port of these notes. We would like all the broth- ers and sisters to keep us posted on the happenings so we can have a write-up each month for this division. There is lots of material for a good write-up on the Falls and Peanut branches and the Auburn road. Sisters Meitz and Bliss were eacu re- lieved by Sister Culver several days re- cently at Martisco. Relief Agent Bro. Gardner relieved the brothers on the Auburn road recently for the eye test. Bro. H. L. French, agent East Pembroke, climbing on the drawhead of a box car to remove a tag, fell and broke his left wrist We are sorry to hear of the accident. Local Chairman Zimjnerman, Medina, re- lieved by Bro. Holland one week recently while in New York on committee work. Daddy Coleman, who recently bid in sec- ond Cayuga and found plenty of work and «o favors. Is back at Lehigh Valley Junc- tion? He should come in with the rest of oi where he would get both warmth and protection. He said he did not need favors when the sun was shining. On account of Ice harvesting at Cayuga a third man has been put on at “CB" and at Lehigh Valley Junction. Cert. 2652. Ontario Division — Bro. Brown, agent Walker, has organ- ised an orchestra and Is promoting dancing schools. Bro. Pease has moved to Wilson and Bra W. J. Carlin will make his home at Ransom ville. Congratulations and best wishes for Bro. and Mrs. Carlin. Bra Frank Felter is taking a course as traffic manager. Bro. George Row, agent Adams, recently purchased a fine residence on Rodman street. Bro. Prior, agent New Haven, has paid up. Correct your delinquent list accord- ingly. A seniority list has been mailed to each office by Chairman Geer. If you fall to receive It advise Chairman Geer and he will famish another. Bro. Ellis, first "KY," Jwt received $215.28 back pay on account of being laid off for dinner and working eight hours within nine at a two-trick point Brothers, report all irregularities to Bro. Geer and you will get what was due you. Remember, he cannot discover them himself. Bros. Klafehn and Timerson, agents at Brice and Ontario, have been granted 90 and So days' leave respectively. Bro. McCarthy is back on second Wood- ward after a short illness. We hope to soon report Bro. 8nook back at Lyndonville from tbe sick list He is one of the oldest men ta the service on this division. We are still waiting for Washington to *ign our “peace treaty." H. J. Cavbllier, Cert. 2859, Mallory, N. Y. St. Lawrence Division — F. Q. Drumm, second Matoon, was re- cently married. Hope he now appreciates that “In union there is strength,” and signs up. Also Ernest Manwarring at Main street. Bro. G. M. Mosseau, third Roots, recently spent several days with his parents at Co- hoes. N. Y. Former Bro. R. S. Bates is on third Phila- delphia, after “riding the decks” for several years. Bro. C. D. Reed is now acting yardmaster at “WJ." Bro. L. E. Merrick’s wife is in Orwell Sanitarium and one of his children in Og- densburg hospital. We all sympathize with him and hope for the rapid recovery of both. Bro. Williams has bought & home and continues to lay away the “dobies." Conductor Frank Rowland of the Ontario Division, brother-in-law of our chief dis- patcher, recently died in a Utica hospital, after a protracted illness. Lots of stuff coming across the border by truck. No breakdowns near o»ur shack, however, and we can’t seem to stop ’em with tacks. Bro. M. E. Baxter, second Roots, who learned to tie knots in the Navy, cannot convince himself that the Domonie might enjoy a similar experience. The writer solicits the kind indulgence of the brothers on this division, as these notes were collected and assembled hastily and facilities for acquiring them were rather limited at the time. “Pop,” Cert. 1666. Electric Division — If every member in this great organiza- tion would faithfully attend regular meet- ings there is no question about wages, or anything else, that could not be amicably settled for the best interest of all concerned, including the present day wage question. The meeting room is the place to do busi- ness. Everyone is in favor of a higher wage rate, but every member does not at- tend the meetings to fight for it. Remem- ber, what Isn’t worth fighting for isn’t worth having. Had this idea been faithfully followed years ago, or should it be even at this late date, our wages would probably be high enough to meet the H. C. L. face to face Instead of side stepping. Officers are elected to look after and rep- resent us, but they must have data and in- structions from the members. We will ever be the tailenders if we do not congregate in the meeting room and help them, for or- ganization, unity and harmony go hand in hand in accomplishing things today. Our regular morning meeting January 14th was a lively one, the wage question being the main topic, and a special joint meeting was voted to get down to the bottom of this business immediately. Digitized by ^.ooQle

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204 The Railroad Telegrapher. Dispatcher's telephone circuit has replaced the old telegraph wire on the New Haven at last and Bro. Kedney is more than de- lighted that “JO" Wood lawn Tower is hooked up with it. Brothers who have not made returns from the turkey drawing kindly do so at once and help straighten out the accounts. March 1st will probably be a big day in the history of the railroads, and brothers, don’t forget that this Is also the day you will be a delinquent if you haven’t squared up. We expect it will be Bro. Downie when this is read. It is with deep sorrow and regret that we chronicle the death of Bro. Dickinson, who, while waiting for a train in Ludlow Station, was taken suddenly ill with heart disease. Also the death of the mother of Bros. M. A. and F. B. Smith. The sympathy of the brothers of this division is extended to the bereaved. “Bm,L,“ Cert. 2034. Hudson Division — , Meeting Tuesday, January 20th, was well attended. The agents and assistant agents have re- ceived their final back pay. We are glad to hear Bro. Craft back on SS-87 again after a serious operation for appendicitis. Our sympathy is extended to Bro. H. Hallenbeck, SS-89, in the loss of his wife and Infant daughter; also to Bro. Coons, agent Linlithgo, in the loss of his Infant daughter, and to Bro. Pugsley, Poughkeep- sie, ticket office, in the loss of his sister-in- law. Bro. Andrus, Poughkeepsie ticket office, and his wife visited in Herkimer county several days, and Bro. Hanf, agent Crugers, in Florida, relieved by Bro. Burgen, who also relieved Bro. McCarthy, agent Stock- port, on account of sickness, and Brb. J. Cannon, SS-65, on account of sickness re- cently. Bro. Kelly. Peeksklll ticket office, had a narrow escape from being gassed when he assisted in helping save an aged couple who had been overcome in their home at Poughkeepsie. Bro. Savage, SS-69, recently retired by the company, is with the express company at White Plains. M. L., Cert. 932. Monon Route, Div. 9. An inspector has called on our superin- tendents and advised them that the next one who violates the nine-hour law will have to face Judge Anderson, so post yourselves on it. Don’t violate it of your own accord nor be forced to do it. Working each other’s tricks for three or four hours must be cut out. Agents cannot work six, seven, eight, nine or ten hours either doing their own work and then do an eight-hour stunt telegraphing. The law reads to be held os or remain on duty in any capacity. So, boys, don’t blame chief dispatchers and superin- tendents for not allowing doubling, and if you get caught you will havf no one but yourselves to blame. Our schedule has been signed up by the general superintendent. They will soon be printed and all have a copy. We have about 21 new positions. This was a hard old grind and very trying on your committee, who hurried things along as fast as possible. Of course we did not get all the working conditions we asked for, but did the best we could under present conditions. The superintendents are complaining about sleeping on duty and will take serious action if it is not stopped. Northern Division — Bro. Fulmer second Cedar Lake, relieved few days recently while riding the Masonic goat at Salem. Bro. Terry, second Shaps, and wife spent Christmas In Chicago and saw the Ziegfeld Follies while there. Bro. Jones relieved Bro. Titus Rensselaer recently a few days. Bro. Husted, second Fair Oaks, recently called to earning on account of the death of his mother, relieved by Palmer, “Big Four," Indianapolis. Non Hunt, seoond Westfield Tower, still promising. Chief Dispatcher Adkins is ’getting some large dividends from his oil stocks. Brothers, drop me a line when you hear any news or when changes are made at your stations. R. O. T., “SK," Cert. 218. Souther w Division — Bro. Thorne, relief agency open, goes to Ladoga, and Bro. Ridlln to CrawfordsviUe agency. “Non" Sipple is trying to get back on Clay City agency, which he gave up for first trick Tower. Brothers, remember, "No card , no favors , nor wo backing” General Chairman Hollin rode the Masonic goat recently. It is now Bro. R. B. Fogg on second “AD” Lafayette. Bro. Huber, third New Albany yard office, was married January 7th. Ckbt. 213. Philadelphia & Reading R. R., Div. 10. Harrisburg Division — My notes for January mailed from Har- risburg, December 2 2d, reached SL Louis one day too late. “Uncle Sam" is to blame this time. Committee was appointed at last meeting to interview the two “outs" on the West End. Get after the other nons on the divi- sion, including the few ladles. The committee won Bra Raffensperger’s position back into the supplement at SSc Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Teleobapher. 205 per boor and back pay from April. It 'also took an active interest in helping Bro. Bill Marbnrger to get the Palmyra agency. The agents, juniors in seniority, will not be peeved when they know all the 'circum- stances. The general chairman is trying to pry the Gettysburg case loose at ‘Washington. He has received the wage scale proof from the general manager, and the schedule in book form should now be out. The new roster has been approved and posted, first real and absolute one ever ex- hibited on this property. We took pains enough to make it air tight and hope it meets with your approval. It looks as if the general chairman will never get back on his trick. Grievances are piling in at wonderful rate. He had hoped to be back on New Years. Ask the agents to see the circular letter sent out regarding the activities of certain so-called organisers. Through the committees efforts, Bro. De Hart agent Franklin street Reading, col- lects $146$ back pay and advances to 59c. per hour. That will buy the kids some •hoea. Note what Congress and the Senate are doing to your wage prospects and watch yoor step next election and in the future. The Wage Board could not do anything for us. Their hands were tied by your "friends" In both Houses. Forget the Democratic and Republican and all other parties. Vote for the man and forget all about parties. You have been getting your dose long enough to know that It’s bitter medicine and you helped mix it. Ifs fine to see the nice turnout at the meetings. Keep it up, boys. Come around and speak your littlo piece in the meeting room. Curb meetings don’t do anyone any good. Don't be leaving things to a hand- ful of loyal fellows. Do your bit and help, even If you must criticise, so long as it is of the constructive brand. Don’t forget the System Division Protec- tive Fund. Five brothers are being helped by It now. If not already a member, send your dollar to Bro. Farlow and help the sick and disabled amongst us. Remember, you must qualify for the jobs at Mulberry street and P. H. & P. Junc- tion to keep them from slipping back to old conditions. Pay your dues and keep off the delinquent list and don’t forget your M. B. D. 1 am trying to land a division corre- •Pondent. Who wants to apply. Cert. 183. Reading' Division — During the past year several of our broth- el* have been 111 and unable to work for many months. Having families to support, they are In very dire circumstances. In order to aid them and others who may be afflicted In future, General Chairman Mcneil has established a Voluntary Protec- tive Fund on the Reading System, to be maintained by our members remitting one dollar per year to General Secretary O. L. Farlow. The money in this fund will be used to aid our members who become finan- cially embarrassed and are unable to work on account of 111 health. When a case of this kind Is brought to our notice a commit- tee will investigate and if it finds the claim justified the member will be given aid. The cases noted have been investigated and found to be very pathetic. One in par- ticular. a brother suffering from tuberculo- sis, has not been able to work for many months and was about to be moved Into the street on account | of non-payment of rent. A wife and several small children are depending *on him for support. Under existing conditions we are already making many sacrifices in order to make ends meet, but as long as we have our health and are able to work we have much to be thankful for. Let us not forget our afflicted members, but make one more sac- rifice by contributing this one dollar a year and comfort them to the extent of knowing that their brothers arp big and generous enough to establish a fund to protect them. We have a very nice membership on this system and if every member will contrib- ute one dollar a year, in course of several years we will have a protective fund to be proud of. Kindly respond at once to this appeal. Members on this division can remit the amount to me or to Bro. Farlow direct and a receipt will be sent you to cover this year’s contribution. G. F. Becker, Asst. Local Chairman, Douglassville, Pa. The time limit for paying dues has nearly expired. If you have not remitted please do so at once and keep off the delinquent list. All the returned service men south of Reading have joined. They realize what good has been done for us all while they were "over there.’’ Keep after the few nons north of Read- ing and in the Cressona and Mine Hill dis- trict and accept no excuses. Remember our motto, “No card, no favors.*9 If you have any grievances file them promptly with Local Chairman L. L. Rob- bins, 568 S. 16th street, Reading, Pa., and they will receive prompt attention. Bro. Underkofler has returned from sev- eral weeks' rest in Florida. Cert. 428. Reading Division Notes — Our meeting Jan. 15th was well attended. That is the place to do your talking, not in the smoker or office. Would like to see a full house at the next one. Digitized by tjOOQle

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206 The Railroad Telegrapher. Shamokin Division — Brothers, don’t criticise our committee working so hard at Washington to secure favorable results, as that will only cause dissatisfaction and more or less hamper the work. You all know the old saying, *'Oood things come to him who waits.” Every brother or sister who has not al- ready done so send in his or her dues at once. Then look around as there may be some nons with or near yQu to convert into O. R. T. members and keep diligently after them until they are up-to-date. Such “boosting” will help our committee as well as ourselves, while “knocking” will get us nothing. Let us make this division 100 per cent before the next write-up. H. R. Clark, Cert. 257. Atlantic City Division — * We all extend out sympathy to Bro. Ha- gan, agent Magnolia, whose sister died Dec. 27th. He was relieved by Bro. Wyatt while attending the funeral. Bro. Schneider, agent Haddon Heights, re- turned from his honeymoon Xmas after a delightful trip. Best wishes for a happy future. Brothers, don't miss the meetings if you can help it. Bro. Tatlow promises to give out cigars at the next one, having won a bet Bro. Egan is back again at “C” from the sick list, and Bro. Riley is back on the job after falling down stairs and fracturing his skull. Brothers, get after the few nons. See Jim Duble, Cedar Brook, and Earl Switzer, second “DK.” Bro. Harlm, keep up the good work. Bro. Mitchell secured Garri- son’s application. Keep after them, Duke. Bro. Hartman, agent West Collingswood, recently won two ten-pound turkeys at the West Collingswood traps, breaking 24 out of 25. Bro. Angelow is serving on the grand jury. Bro. Norcross has resigned, relieved by Therburn working the vacancy. It is now Bro. Raabe, agent Williamstown Junction. John couldn’t stay away. Wel- come back. Bro. Garrett displaced Agent Robart at Palermo, who displaced Bro. Siegmund, third Woodbine Tower. Brothers, send your notes to Bro. Wolfe at Clementon so we can have a write-up every month. Give him more assistance than you. did Bro. O’Kane. Remember, Local Chairman Kirby is working hard for us and needs your support. Pay up your dues and get in the nons. ”KO,” Cert. 758. Philadelphia Division — Bro. Hoyt is now at “NQ” ; Bro. Dan Commer study on Wayne Junction table ; Bro. Pefferle on second West Falls, and McCoy on second “WV.” Following the military order forbidding signaling along the Hudson during the war, Captain Frank Croesman of the Hastings- on-the-Hudson Home Guards reported that “spy” signals were seen by his men flashed between a motor launch and a post on top of Hook Mountain back of Nyak at 9 :S0 and 11 :30 p. m. one evening and again at S :S0 o’clock In the morning, when a racer type launch slowed down off Hook Mountain with a light at the masthead, flashing code mes- sages. The blinking, which lasted about five minutes, was answered by three short flashes from the mountain top. It was from the top of Hightorn, in the Ramapoe, back of Hook Mountain, that Revolutionary officers, with spy glasses, watched the movements of the British in j Long Island Sound as far west as Nan- tucket A powerful signal on Hightorn could be caught by a U-boat lying off the latter point, and spies armed with strohg field ’glasses on Hook mountain could sweep Camp Merritt, near Cresskill, N. J. # The latest radio transmitting record from Carnarvon, Wales, to Sydney, Australia, caused the whole globe to be enveloped in radio oscillations. If a sensitive receiving set were used they could undoubtedly be heard on the moon, a distance of 238.850 j miles. ] A simplified method for figuring Ohm’s law, which might appropriately be termed “Ohm’s Law in a Nut Shell.” I have never j seen it in print. E A F R~ Formula E represent voltage, A amperes, and R the resistance in ohms. To find any term, cover it with the finger. Thus to find the amperes we have the fraction E over R, or wits divided by ohms ; to find voltage we have A times R; to find ohms we have frac- tion E over A. I find this very easy to re- member, and very much better than trying to remember three formulas. To make India ink, grind fine lampblack ] and gelatine, scent with camphor or musk essence and mold in sticks. It can be im- proved by solution of caustic soda and then straining off the solution or drying it out. A. L* Btler, Cert. 150. Canadian National Ry., Dlv. 11. Halifax As Moncton Line, Districts 8 and 5— The many friends of Bros. Hal, Roy and Fred Belyea will sympathize with them in the death of their father, Rev. J. G. A. Bel- yea. Bro. J. P. Swift is acting night chief dis- patcher for the winter months. Digitized by C-ooQle

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Tiie Railroad Telegrapher. 207 Business Is good all over the district an4 we should all give the very best service pos- sible. A corking good meeting was held in Monc- ton, Dec. 16th, with General Chairman Trainor and SupL Devenish in attendance. Local Chairman Hutchinson was unable to attend on account of illness. Deputy President Mein and General Chairman Trainor held a meeting in Truno In November which was very well attended. Local Chairman Hutchinson held a meet- ing in Truno December 30th. It was at- tended by twenty-seven brothers and a lot of grievances cleared up. Bra. B. Johnson has returned from Toronto, where he went to consult a spe- cialist. Friends will be glad to know Bro. Lloyd Blakes has resumed duty again. Bro. B. R. Forse, ticket agent at Truno, spent the Christmas holidays at his home in Moncton, relieved by Relief Agent Davis. Bro. W. P. Hutchinson, local chairman, has been off duty since October on account of serious illness, but is improving. As a token of their appreciation the boys of Dis- tricts 3 and 6 made him a substantial cash presentation about the Christmas season. Boys, get after the nons. If we are to make a showing in the next revision, which should come soon, every available non should be in the Order, and what is equally important, every brother should see to it that he does not become delinquent Cert. 4. O. R. T. Members of Div. 3 and 6, C. N. Ry. Dear brothers: I wish to take this means to supplement my thanks to you, which I expressed to your committee on the occa- sion of your recent presentation to me. When one is "up against it” It certainly is a pleas- ure and satisfaction to know that the “boys’* with whom one labors daily are the kind to come forward with help and sympathy. Boys, I thahk you, and my wish is that you may all have a happy, prosperous New Tear. Yours fraternally, W. P. HUTCHIN80N. Ottawa Division — It Is with regret we report the death, Dec. 36th. at Water street hospital* Ottawa, of Bro. "Bobby** Fairbalrn, septic poisoning having developed after slight operation of throat. The funeral, conducted by the Masonic order, was held at Deseronto, and was at- tended by a large number of brother teleg- raphers. Our sincere sympathy is extended to the bereaved relatives. Now that the excitement of the election is over ahd Bro. J. G. Taggart has been re- elected local chairman, we will settle down to business once more. Let us start the New Year rigiit, boys, by paying up that special assessment There are quite a number who have failed to do this and it is a compulsory matter if you want to remain an up-to-date member 6f this organization. Send it to your local chairman or Bro. Parsons, St. Romuald, Q. WEsh to express to Chief Dispatcher Smith our appreciation of the manner in which he has treated the boys since com- ing to this division. Everyone received their vacation as near on time as it was possible to relieve them, and violations of our sched- ule are "nil.** Wishing you all a very happy and pros- perous New Year. Cert. 1282. Nipissing and Superior Divisions — Bro. H. H. Finch, Sudbury, Ont., desires to thank the brothers of these divisions for the kind and much appreciated remem- brance presented owing to his bereavement in the loss of his daughter, called home Sunday, Jan. 11th, especially Bros. Geseron and Arnott, who protected his trick during his absence. J. H. Healey, L. C. Delaware & Hudson Ry., Div. 12. Pennsylvania Division — Effective January 1st, 1920, an increase of X $1.69 was made in semi-annual dues, as explained in Bro. Benjamin’s circular let- ter. This action was taken by the grand officers in order to keep our organization from becoming burdened with debts, due to increased cost of office rent, stationery, liv- ing, etc. The letter and statement show the urgent necessity of this increase. Bro. R. D. Pierson passed away at his home in Cresson, Pa., Nov. 24, after a lin- gering illness since October; 1918, when he contracted the “flu," never fully recovering. Bro. Pierson came to the D. & H. from the Lehigh alley about 12' years ago and made many friends here. He held the agency at Farview for six years and later bid in Honesdale, but ill health prevented him from assuming duties there. His funeral was held from his late home in Farview and burial took place in Canandosia, N. T. Surviving him are his wife and one child, who have the heartfelt sympathy of the O. R. T. in their irreparable loss. Bro. Moon and Local Chairman Griggs purchased flowers for Bro. Pierson, later sending a petition over the division for a donation, which met with hearty response, all members forwarding their "bit’’ promptly. This brings to mind the fact that a flower fund would be welcome. Say each member give about 26 ents and have the local chair- man place same in a fund for the purhase of flowers only. The cost is very little and we would have ready money when needed. Please write your local chairman your opin- ion on this question. Digitized by tjOOQle

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208 The Railroad Telegrapher. Do your "bit” to make our division 100 per cent O. R. T. If your office is not solid, make it so. The headquarters of the D. & H. division haVe been changed from Stanwix Hall Hotel to rooms 31 and 32 at 121 North Pearl street, Albany. General Chairman Johnson extends a cordial invitation to any of the brothers who are in Albany at any time to visit him there. Vice-President Ross is assisting the gen- eral committee in having our new schedule signed up. Bro. Shumor, agent Farview, was re- lieved from the service recently on account of falling to pass the color test, when, with several other employes, he was given an op- portunity to take the field test in Albany, the final chance. We are sorry to lose a good man and wish him success in any field he enters. ' Bro. J. H. Law relieved Bro. Lower, first “MJ,” relieving in “DC,” Swartz going on sheet. Bro. Parry, third Olyphant, relieving in “BC,“ was relieved by Sister Mildred Ket- trlck, relieved one night by Bro. Thomas, to comply with the law. Sister Kittrick also relieved Local Chairman Griggs while he attended the safety first meeting. Bro. Powell, first “MJ” Tower, who spent a year with the Y. M. C. A., 92nd Division, in France, attended the recent convention of oversea secretaries of that order. Bros. Kuzmack and Hopkins, Hudson first, were looking over a “dug out” one night recently When they claim an L W. W. dynamited a house in the vicinity of their office. Bro. Thomas, who relieved Bro. Frey, third Hudson, while visiting his old home in Taylor, also relieved Bro. O’Malley, sec- ond Carbon street, during the fiolidays. Bro. McDonnell, first there, made a trip to “Noo Yawk” recently. All eyes are turned to Washington pend- ing an answer from Mr. Hines, when our local chairman will call a meeting at some central point on this division. Please at- tend if possible; it’s for your benefit. Bro. Loughney, first Lookout, visiting in Scranton recently. The “non” who runs the telegraph school ought to be proud of his graduates. They are good phone operators. No notes received from Nineveh branch. Someone up there drop a line or two before the 16th or 18th of each month. Full passenger service has been resumed since the settlement of the soft coal strike. Bro. Powell from the O. & W. has re- signed. Too little extra work. Let all who possibly can do so take out a yearly card. It reduces the work of our officials and saves division expenses. Bro. Anthony, agent Moosic, is on the sick list We hope for his early recovery. . Local Chairman Griggs is doing all in his power to settle grievances promptly. If any of you have a complaint write him, giv- ing facts, etc. Don't tell the other fellow, tell the man who can act. The Carbon dale case has been in the general manager’s hands for some time and until he replies nothing further can be done. Bro. Tom Boles, second “J” office, is now city clerk of Carbondale, and Bro. Rock- erty is high constable in the Pike section. Congratulations. Bro. John O’Malley, Carbon “J” Tower, was the first man to pay up for a new 1920 card. Thanks of Bro/ Michaels, Centre Village, and Bro. Crane, Windsor, for the Items from the N. V. branch. Hope they both come again. My January notes, received one day too late, are included in this month’s publica- tion. “J,” Cert. 1027. Nineveh Brancp — Bro. A. R. Morris, third trick “X” Tower, promoted to B. C. side wire dispatcher’s office, relieved by Sister Warner. Bro. M. J. CafTery, first trick “KY* Tower, relieved two days recently by Sister McMaster. Bro. Crane, third trick “KY” Tower, while climbing semaphore pole to light lamps slipped and fell about nine feet slightly spraining his back. Hope for his speedy recovery. Acrobatic stunts are a little out of season Just at present Some of the boys who run hand speeders to and from work are experiencing more or less trouble due to snow drifts. That fellow who was always kicking about the . weather over in France is still kicking. Csrt. 1030. Champlain Division — Sister Woodford relieved Bro. O. I. Ben- jamin, second Dresden, and Byt>. Bowers relieved Telegrapher Keeley, second Crown Point a few days. Bro. W. T. 'Orourke. displaced by BrO. Hayes, displaced Bro. Collinnan, Wadhams. Bro. R. M. Owens, third “BX” Tower, dis- placed by Bro. G. Sawyer, displaced when F. Denio returned. Bro. Quinn, second “HD” Whitehall, dis- placed by Telegrapher Paul. Bro. C. A. Kelly, second Willsboro, re- lieved during New Year’s recess by Miss G. Hewitt. Sister H. Dean relieved Telegrapher Ward, second Chazy, a few days. Brothers and sisters, there are too many “nons” on this division. Ask the man near you if he oarries a card, if not keep after him until he gets one, so we won't have to carry so much excess weight. "KX,M Cert. 1010. Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 209 Atlantic Coast Line R. R., Div. 15. Member t Savannah District — The year just closed has been a mo* mentoua one not only for our own Order but for the labor movement in general. Conditions at times served to demonstrate the necessity of a thorough understanding between employer and employe, for con- tinued confidence in one another's purpose, for sane leadership on both sides. It is pleasing to note the spirit of co-operation and apparent good will among our own “family circle.’* Yet there is room for Im- provement from a solid membership stand- point There are with us a few who apparently are satisfied with accepting what benefits have been derived through our united efforts without sharing in this movement by be- coming members. Others who put off pay- ing their dues until the last minute, causing unnecessary time and expense. This should not be. I would urge as many as can consistently do so to remit for a yearly card. • Thanking those of you who have so kindly assisted me in whatever success we have enjoyed, and with best wishes for a happy, successful and prosperous year. Fraternally yours, W. A. Holla han, Grand Crossing, Florida. Savannah District Notes — The magnificent new union station in Jacksonville opened to the public recently is a credit to our progressive city. New tower at Myrtle avenue, just north of the new station, a 136 electric lever plant, is being placed In operation at this time. To be alert at all times is a duty we owe ourselves and our fellow workman. The prevention of accidents movement inaugu- rated some time back for a specified period, and which seems to have placed everybody on their toes, thereby resulting in a falling off of the number of accidents, should be continued at all times. There are many ways in which the pre- vention of damage to property can be cur- tailed. Care should be taken In storing freight in the warehouses. Matches, hay, oil and other inflamable articles should be eeparated as far as possible. Barrels should* not be allowed to be placed on the platform unless stood up to prevent them rolling off on the tracks. Many accidents and no doubt loss of lives have been prevented through the prompt ac- tion and notice to the proper parties of de- fects in passing trains, such as freezer doors open and swinging, brake rigging dragging, etc. Let's try and start off the new year with * solid membership. Get the names of the tew out of the Order from the local chair- man and show them that it’s time they helped shoulder the burden. Remember, there is a way provided for members to have their grievances adjusted, and that don’t mean on the phone. President Wilson spoke a great truth when he said the only way to keep men from agitating against grievances is to re- move the grievance. A new year is dawning. Let us Order men strive for the point that through our service we can be easily recognized. Let your card be your recommendation for pro- ficiency and reliability. All together for a successful year during 1920. Cert. 271. Lakeland District — Bro. J. M. Hulett succeeded Bro. Temple- ton on Lakeland Yard third, who bid in first TrHby; Bro. Smith, second Trilby, and Bro. E. C. Johnson, from second Croom, third Trilby. Bro. W. E. Johnson, Croom agency, bid in clerk-telegrapher, Ft Meade. Bro. Hulett was relieved several days by Bro. E. C. Burgner and Bro. Fallen, third Dun- nellon was also off a few days. Local Chairman Bollck, Charleston dis- trict, spent several days in this vicinity re- cently. Bro. W. Brantley, Crystal River agency, resigned, has been with this line 16 years; a staunch Order man who served very effi- ciently as local chairman of this district several years. We are sorry to lose him and wish him success In his new undertak- ing. Bro. J. F. Calloway relieved him, later relieved by Bro. Lassiter, agent Dunnellon. Business is very heavy. Phosphate and citrus fruit moving northward, also lots of winter vegetables. We should all answer calls promptly. If you are busy, say so, and prevent loss of time calling as every min- ute counts. Several trains were discontin- ued, but we did not notice the coal shortage. Instead of having to sit by the fire we were thinking about hunting the shade in the mid- dle of the day. Bro. W. H. Harris, Inverness, came back from a hunt one day recently with a 20- pound turkey. Second and third Williston, also third Inverness, have been opened up for winter season. We are glad to welcome Bro. W. L. Hatchell into the fold. An old card man, the only non on the district, we hope will soon be a brother again. G. B. Walker is back on first “CD” Lake- land dispatcher’s office after nearly two years in the radio service. We welcome him home and can now call him brother as he has already signed up. His return puts Bro. R. P. Lennon on second “CD” and Bro. W. D. Wilson on second “YD” Lakeland Yard. Digitized by tjOOQle

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210 The Railroad Telegrapher. Reports from the “accident prevention drive” during the month of October just received shows the Atlantic Coast Line heading the list with only three injuries dur- ing this period. Let us make “safety first” our motto always. The first few days of January the ther- mometer registered about 34 abbve for two days and we thought we were having some winter weather, even if the roses were in bloom. Every one of the craft should read the items written in December journal by Cert. 3796, on page 1679. A non reading this will cease to be one if he has any principle at all, and a member will see that he does not become delinquent. Florida has the only sponge fisheries in the union. Tarpon Springs ships thousands of dollars’ worth of sponges yearly. There are said to be over 600 varieties of fish in Florida waters, among the many fine food fish of Florida are found the shad, pompano Spanish mackerel, sheephead, trout, red fish and mullett. Fishing is a great industry. The tarpon, the world’s most noted game fish, abounds in the seas around Florida. Catching these fish is said to be very ex- citing sport. A large per cent of Florida’s original for- ests are still wooded, though many acres are being thinned annually. In these forests many bear and deer are found, and the quail is plentiful throughout the state. This state ranks first in the union in the produc- tion of turpentine. The clay makes good brick and it leads all other states in the production of Fuller’s earth and ball clay. The Western Union has moved out of the A. C. L. office at Inverness uptown. It would be a good thing if all railroad offices could get rid of this commercial work. It’s a great deal of trouble and no compensa- tion to speak of. Mrs. E. C. Sheppard, Cert. 1323. Fayetteville District — All who can possibly do so should pay up for the whole year and get an annual card. This saves expense to the division and re- duces the work of our officials considerably. It is very essential that we should stand 100 per cent solid. We made great progress during 1919. Let’s all see if we cannot make 1920 even better. Make all your grievances to your local chairman. Don’t air them on the wire. If the schedule is not being lived up to at your station advise him at once. Remember our slogan, “No card, no favors ” and dont’ forget our aim, “No card, no job” Keep after the “nons” and try to land them. Send their names to the local chairman and also to J. H. Williams as soon as they light and give them no rest until you get their applications. Those who are not with us are against us. Bro. R. B. Hutson, agent Ptfrkton, hunt- ing a few days, relieved by Bro. P. H. Star- ling. Bro. A. C. Cannaday has taken the clerk’s position there. Later Bro. Starling relieved Bro. Jones, agent Elroad. while he took his son Evans to the hospital for an operation. Bro. Watson, third Rennert, relieved a few days by Extra Patterson, who also re- lieved Bro. Palmer, third Rouland, several days. Bro. Stephenson, second Dillon, sick a few days, relieved by Benfleld. Bro. Lavin, sec- ond Elroad, and Bro. Jonefc, second Selma, also sick seveAl days, relieved by Bro. Langley. Bro. Lewis, second. Dunn, has resigned to enter private business. We wish him success. Please let me have your notes in time so I can arrange and get them to St. Louis before the 25th. C. A. B., Cert. 1437. Columbia District — In the November journal, rf>ages 1529-30, and again in the December issue, pages 1672-73, I called the attention of the agents on this district to the fallacy of violating our contract with the company in regard to working over their eight hours, where clerical help was needed to keep the work up, and showed conclusively that as long as such a course was pursued they would never get relief from those conditions. I understand that some of the agents are still working ten and twelve hours a day. Therefore I want to call attention to what I wrote then and implore these men to work their eight hours, no more and no less, and what is left undone finish the next day. If you are “jacked up” for being behind, make a case of it and the general chairman will handle it. The telephone will shortly be installed be- tween Florence and Columbia and Sumter and Augusta. On districts where they are in use considerable trouble has been expe- rienced owing to the conductors and train- men using them. Phones have been placed at blind sidings for the train crews’ exclu- sive use, resulting in a number of second or third tricks being abolished and some towers closed. I warn you now not to let these men use the phone without your per- mission, and never allow them to copy or- ders or other instructions in your office. A resolution was passed at the St. Louis con- ventions of the Conductors and O. R. T. pro- testing against the use of the phones by the former except in dire emergencies, that sel- dom arise. Every time this rule is violated report it. If a member of a train crew copies a train order or uses the phone otherwise In connection with the movement of trains, and remains on duty longer than thirteen Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 211 hours, he violates the hours of service act Turn in these violations to the local com- mittee and they will be handled. This must be done to protect our jobs. We closed 1919 about 98 per cent with 117 jobs, 115 paid up members to December 31st four delinquents and four nons holding regular jobs on the district Let’s try to make it 100 per cent by June 30th. When I took it there were 17 paid up members, 49 nons and 39 delinquents, totaling 105 Jobs. My dream has always been 100 per cent solid. When that is fully realized I will give the next man the job of keeping it that way. C. Bolick, L. C. Columbia District Notes — Oiad to learn that Bro. E. H. Pittman has withdrawn his resignation. Bros. King, Lucknow and Croswell, Tim- monsviUe, called on the local chairman re- cently. Bro. Pearce, resigned, relieved by Bro. While, second Timmonsville. Bro. Carter, ex-cashier Sumter, has accepted a position in Timmonsville freight office. Qlad to welcome Ellis Cook, Lumber Bridge, and Luther Boswell, leverman Flor- ence, as brothers. Bros. Heard and Thomas were relieved a few days at Florence by Extra Bailey, who later bid in new McColl, second. Bros. Par- ker and Stanley will see that he gets an up- to-date. Bro. Schipman, Florence yard, was re- lieved a few days by Bro. Boon from “FN." “CB,” Cert. 31. Second Division, Montgomery District — We failed to have any notes in January journal on account of ye scribe taking Christinas and let the date for sending them in slip by. We are going to have a few in each issue for the balance of the year whether anyone sends me any notes or not. I am going to do the best I can. We seem to be unable to get over three or four members out to a meeting at a time. Most of the members have cars and have no excuse for not attending once a month. It makes a bad showing for our district after making such good start the first of the year. When the weather warms up we will make another effort to get lined up again for the summer. Remember, we must pay our dues and in- surance assessments before March 1st to re- main in good standing. Hope we will not have a single delinquent for the first half of 1930 and will be glad If everyone who Is able will get an annual card as it saves lots of work for our general secretary and treas- urer, and you are then paid up for the year. Am a token of appreciation of the services rendered by Local Chairman Stokes for the Put three years, Bros. Hodges and Pouncey at Ozard circulated a petition over the en tire Montgomery district for subscriptions of one dollar each to make Bro. Stokes a nice Christmas present. It was decided to send him a cashier's check for the full amount of $62.00 subscribed, which was done on Dec. 24th. All but a very few members availed them- selves of the opportunity to contribute to this little token of appreciation of the work done by Bro. Stokes. We are all sorry to hear of the death of Bro. W. G. Laney at Troy, Jan. 14th, who had been sick many months. In his demise we lose a loyal member from our organiza- tion and the company a valuable employa The O. R. T. sent a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Rosemourlt Gardens. T. Munn, Cert. 120. Michigan Central R. R., Div. 16. Northern Division — Our committee has returned from Detroit, schedule negotiations having been com- pleted and timekeepers are now making out the rolls, including Supplements 3, 4 and 8. New rates will be in effect as of December 1st and back pay should soon be along. Bros. Cummings and McCalpin are helping out in timekeeper's office on back pay rolls. We are getting a real old-fashioned win- ter, especially on North End, and third tricks have been put on at Waters and In- dian River. Bro. W. J. Shaw, Bay City relay, on a trip West for a month, relieved by Bra Flood. Bro. Stombaugh, from the N. Y. C., re- lieved on third Salzburg a few nights then went to Mackinaw Division. A few new men are coming along but not enough to fill the positions and it is neces- sary to close a trick when a man is sick. Mrs. G. H. Wagner wishes to thank the members for favors shown her in her re- cent bereavement, the loss of her husband, Bro. G. H. Wagner. Cert. 63. Middle Division — Bro. McMurray, Kalamazoo, off on ac- count of the death of his mother-in-law, re- lieved by Glanton, recently returned from service. Bro. Morton, Colon, undergoing an opera- tion at Ann Arbor, relieved by Bro. Moul- ton, relieved on third by Bro. C. W. Brown. Bro. Clissold, relieving the boys at Pearl street, relieved at Block “A” by Brophey. Bro. Bietler, posting on dispatching, re- lieved at Eaton Rapids by Bro. Weber, re- lieved on third by Brophey. Bro. Firestone, East End Niles, to A. L. Junction, vice Cook to second Haires, vice Carlisle to Charlotte, vice Bro. Moon to A. L. Junction, vice Bro. Planck to third A. L. Junction, vice Bro. C. W. Brown to Con- Digitized by tjOOQle

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212 The Railroad Teleorapher. cord, vice Bro. Jacobs to Homer, relieving Bro. N. Trattles, with sprained ankle. Bro. Schemp, chief operator, wants to warn every operator who don’t want to work on the M. C. to keep out of his reach as he don't know what to do to relieve the short- age. Bro. Wicks, work as assistant night chief dispatcher, relieved at Botsford by Mrs. Virgo. Bro. Shepard relieving Bro. Glass, Cassopolis days, on account of sickness. Bro. Hickey relieved Bro. C. M. Brown, Haires, on committee work. Hickey later relieved by Bro. Shepard and returned to N. Y. C. Junction. Bros. Miller and Dunning doubled while Bro. Alden, “SF“ Jackson, off during the holidays getting tied up. Hearty congrat- ulations to the newlyweds. H. W. Hildebrand is back from the West working in “SF” again; also E. T. Mclver. a new man. Bad weather and congestion has caused much delay to passenger and freight trains lately. Everybody kept guessing to keep them moving. Night chief Gardner, while having his ton- sils removed, relieved by Dispatcher Van Wagnen. Bro. Middleton, Tekonsha, relieved by Re- lief Agent Webster, later by Goodrich. J. E. Haper, Cert. 1330. Pennsylvania R. R., Dlv. 17. To All Members of System Division 17 — I would like to call the attention of the few who have not yet paid dues for this term to the necessity of doing so at once. The laws of the organization require your dues and M. B. D. assessments to be paid within the first two calendar months of the dues paying period. You will not be beneficial after that time until back assess- ments are paid and Articles 10 and 14 of the Mutual Benefit Department Complied with. Send M. B. D. assessments to C. B. Raw- lins, grand secretary and treasurer, St. Louis, Mo., and dues to me at 71 Gunther Bldg., Baltimore, Md. Fraternally, W. M. Skinner, G. S. & T. Baltimore Division — I presume you have all heard from the count of the ballots which were taken of all employes coming under Supplement 13, at the instigation of the Railroad Administra- tion to determine which organization should represent them in future negotiations, result ing in a total of 4360 for the O. R. T. out of 5476, a majority of which there can be no question. Your general committee has drawn up and presented to the management a sched- ule to take the place of the so-called one we were formerly working under, and ere you read this there is no reason that can be foreseen why the same should not be agreed upon and signed up! We will then be in line with all other roads in the coun- try and every one should do their utmoft to get the remaining nons in the fold and 'make System Division 17 solid. This can be done if every brother will consider it his duty to make an effort to get a member. You should consider it your duty to boost the organization all the time, and remember the old saying, “In unity there is strength.” Brothers, you should come out to our regular meetings the third Friday night of each month. There will be interesting in- formation for you at all of them. Things that cannot be told on the wire and are well worth the little trouble required to be present You should bear in mind the .necessity of having your dues and M. B. D. assessments paid up before March 1st in order to pre- vent you becoming delinquent The entertainment held by the Monumen- tal O. R. T. Club on the night of January 1st was a grand success, and attended by the largest number ever. We have a Jan band composed of our own members, and it is a treat to hear them, as they give us first- class music, and the oldest of us cannot re- sist the impulse to trip the light fantastic to its melody. These club entertainments are held the first Thursday of each month in the regu- lar hall. Come out and have a good time. “Novice.” Baltimore Division ( B . & P. Notes ) — Let’s all try to get an annual card this year and reduce the work of our secretary and treasurer as well as the expense to our division. The Monumental O. R. T. Club gives an entertainment and dance at 25th and Oak streets, Huntington hall, 8 p. m., the first Thursday of each month. The December affair was the best given so far, and hope they will all prove as good if not better in the future. Members of any division and their families are invited to attend, all free. We all extend our sympathy to Bro. Lt. Dr. J. B. SeBastian in the loss of his mother, his best friend. Boys, come to our regular meetings, third Friday each month, and you will be sur- prised at all the good things you will hear. After attending once you will want to be there every time, as we cannot tell you on the wires what is being done for parties to get hold of who have no right to know. We should all try to make this division 100 per cent strong and show that we are not “asleep at the switdh.” Keep after your side kicker until you land him. We are glad to see Bro. Bradfleld back on his job after a very bad case of Mood poisoning. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 213 Bra a a Stiles bid in "WV.” Bra Walters, N. C. agent, was elected chief telegrapher; Bro. W. M. Skinner, past chief; Bra NelBon, first vice-chief; Bro. Lloyd, second vice-chief; Bro. Magee, sec- retary; Bro. Fisher, marshal; Bro. Smith, inside, and Bra Johnson, outside sentinel, st our last meeting, so boys come prepared to work your way into the division room and study the secret work. It will cause a bet- ter understanding and better attendance at future meetings. We are doing more freight business now than we did during the war. The night owls are wide awake and on the job assist- ing the dispatcher in getting the trains over the road, and they are all members of the 0. R. T. Send me some notes for the write-up, and remember, “No cardj no favors ." “Dick,” Cert. 189. Trenton Division — The outcome of the vote recorded at Broad street, Philadelphia, Pa., December 15th, 4260 out of a total of 5476, clearly showed the P. R. R. officials that all the employes coming under the jurisdiction of Supplement No. 13 wanted only one organ- ization to represent them and that is the 0. R. T. General Chairman Miller convened the reduced general committee in Hotel Vendig, Philadelphia, Pa., December 15th, and started in immediately to take the place of the famous “Code of Regulation s” doomed to the scrap heap on December 25th. 1919. This was the greatest “Xmas” present the hoys on “the Pennsy” ever had. The new schedule as drafted is second to none In the United States. A date for conference with the general manager has been asked for and when an agreement is reached we can then truthfully say we have accomplished what we started out to do, viz., place a real schedule on the Pennsylvania Railroad. This has been a long fight beset with many obstacles which demanded careful study from every angle, for we were criti- cised from within and without by those who did not know all the particulars of the case, hut your grand officers, backed by your re- duced general committee, stood firm, work- ing in perfect harmony at all times, knowing that “right” must prevail as It did prevail. Brothers, we must now line up the nons; get them In the Order and then stay organized, Forgive those who opposed us in the past, start anew, hand them, an application blank and ask them to fill it out. Forget the past. "Don't kick a man when he is down ” The co-operative movement in behalf of Bro. A C. Hoffman, retiring from the serv- ice after 54 years' service with a clear rec- ord, was a grand success and proves the fact that we must co-operate to get the best results. Everyone present will long remem- ber the feeling of good will shown between employer and employe, which, I hope, will continue, for It means much to all concerned and will do more than anything else to bring our division up to the highest point of efficiency. The presentation speech of the gifts se- lected (a large, easy chair and a gold Masonic emblem) by Division Operator Shoester was rendered ably and the re- sponse by Bro. Hoffman, showing his appre- ciation for the gifts and the splendid time given in his honor, was a credit to our de- partment and an inspiration for every em- ploye to keep his record clean and thus honor our craft. It was pleasing to have former Dlvisioh Operator Wilmot (for whom we all have a high regard) present and his short descrip- tive talk on days gone by and the changes that have taken place from time to time was very much enjoyed. Superintendent Clark was unavoidably de- tained at the last minute and his absence was greatly regretted by all. The committee hereby wishes to thank all the boys for the generous response and per- sonal efforts put forth. Keep up the good work. Taking off the summer schedules has caused quite a reduction in force. Have been very busy recently but will give you a more detailed report on local events and changes in next issue. Let “ efficiency and co-operation” be our motto during 1920. C. S. Hbndricks, Local Chairman. Trenton Division Notes— We have made good our promises to place a schedule on Pennsylvania Lines East, and now you must individually stay in, get the few nons in and back your committee, as its success depends largely upon the member- ship. Many trials and tribulations have been gone through to obtain this cherished piece of paper, an agreement on the P. R. R.f and I hope that every division will celebrate the occasion in such a way that It may al- ways be remembered. The large liberty banquet , which we planned to be held in Trenton House, Tren- ton, N. J., Feb. 16th, 1920, will be written up for next journal. Invitations were ex- tended to the wives and friends and arrange- ments made after eating turkey and talking over the situation to clear the halt for a dance with any girl that looks good to you, providing, of course, that it is agreeable to her. Our general chairman and secretary were Invited as honored guests to enjoy that Digitized by Google

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214 The Railroad Telegrapher. which they had worked so hard to accom- plish and also see in action the division that furnished the largest O. R. T. vote of the System Lines East. I am interested in the agents on this divi- sion. They supported me by giving the O. R. T. a two-thirds vote, and since that time I have been busy sending out letters of the latest developments of the O. R. T. for their craft We have proven, through the Wage Board, that the credit for all that has been accomplished belongs to the Order of Railroad Telegraphers and that others have been trying to deceive the agents in order to divide them and keep them from joining the O. R. T., which now protects 96 per cent of their class throughout the United States. Reports and letters coming to me show that the agents have decided to Join the O. R T. and are endeavoring to se- lect a man for our committee on local griev- ances, which looks very encouraging. It is now Bros. Broderick, P. W. Sutts and Ed. Knowles, recently returned from the service, and the few others outside the Or- der will take out cards as soon as a sched- ule is placed in effect. All my assistants who agreed to furnish me notes were so busy planning for the banquet and what girls they were going to take that they forgot to send any news items, but I have forgiven them as It was enough to excite any common operator and make him forget news notes when thinking of a turkey banquet , with a nice little “queen” beside him, with an orchestra play- ing while he whispered in her ear about the dance to follow. “Oh, boy!" We are all anxiously awaiting the result of our committee’s visit before the Wage Board on December 4th, 1919, with the hope that a decision may be reached that will make some award to our class which will be very acceptable in these times of H. C. L., but let us not be unmindful of the struggle to gain what we now have, which is double that which we received before the war, and remember the way to hold the salary you now get is to stay organized, for we have no assurance that capital may not decree that we are now getting too much salary and proceed to take some of it from us. Cert. No. 42. West Jersey & Seashore Division — Any who have not paid their dues and as- sessments for this term should do so at once, as after February 29th they will not be beneficial in the M. B. D. Remit for the lat- ter to Bro. Rawlins, St Louis, and for your dues to Bro. W. M. Skinner, Baltimore, Md. We are sorry to chronicle the death, Dec. 29th, of Sister Edith Whilden Simkins of Franklinville, N. J. She had been in the service over two years and was married In November, only about a month before her demise. Her husband and relatives have the sympathy of all her fellow workers She was burled , Jan. 2nd at Woodbury. N. J. A number of our brothers called to view her remains and the Order furnished a nice floral emblem for her funeral. This is the first sister on this division that has died and we feel her loss greatly. No doubt when this reaches you our gen- eral committee will have been in session at Broad street and a schedule negotiated. Every man should now come in and help hold what we got. This private operation “boogey man" may also have disappeared by that time and those who have held out on that last straw will have no further ex- cuse'to conjure up for remaining out Bro. W. L. Swain, Salem, N. J., has re- signed and taken a position in a bank there, after many years of service for this com- pany. We all wish him success. The outcome of the ballot was not unex- pected. We always knew that the majority wanted to be represented by a real organ- isation and the vote has settled the question once for all. Out of 239 votes cast on this division 316 were for the O. R. T. We ware surprised that 12 agents voted for the O. R S. A., as such an organization could do noth- ing for them. Only five votes were cast for the A. R. T. D. A. ft S. Just about what we expected. Every agent should have a copy of the circular put out by Bro. Manlon in regard to the Order station agents which will show that outfit up in the proper light Every agent on the P. R. R. should realise by this time that a division of strength is against all of us and should steer clear of all such organizations in future. Just as soon as our agreement is in offset many matters will be taken up on this divi- sion and injustices straightened out same as on other divisions. Ckrt. 74. Delaware (Southern) Division— This division has not had a write-up for several months because I have not received any items. Boys, please note and do your bit in future. Bro. B. C. Wainright and wife spent his relief days in Philadelphia; Bra C. B. Alien in Wilmington and Philadelphia; Bro. R. F. Farlow and wife with relatives ; Bro. L. F. Murphy and wife with his parents at Greensboro; Bro. 8. L. Richards at home with his family; Bro. L. H. Wright and family with his parents at Mardella Springs, and Bro. F. H. Dryden and family with rela- tives at Mlll8boro. Bro. F. E. Werner has no fear of the H. C. L. as long as the fur season lasts. Bro. J. R. Cooke on former* rosters (telegraph department) headed the list, on the new one he is in second place. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 215 Bro. J. L. Holloway was caught in when hifl family was quarantined for scarlet fever. Bro. W. F. Allen gets every Sunday off now without pay. Broa Kirk and Freeney at Delmar have installed a vulcanizing plant. Also Bro. Cal- loway another at GreenWood. Bro. H. S. Taylor visited relatives at Hebron recently, and Bro. C. R. Meegee was a recent Dover visitor. Bro. J. R. Cannon and wife have been guests of honor. at several dinner parties recently. Bros. J. D. Gootee, L. H. Wright, C. L. Oneal and J. B. Thompson are on the sick list Keep after G. W. Hanson, “HA” ; W. M. Reed, “JC” (Harrington) ; R. M. Outten, “JC" (Dover) ; H. N. WItherbee. “CN” (Brldgevflle) ; G. W. Bennum, “GN,” and A P. Townsend, Georgetown, and A. S. Radish, Gird let ree. Give them no rest until we get them in and make our division 100 per cent. Leave the rest to “Jaek.” Bro. A. W. Anderson, displaced at the Milford, Del., passenger agency by Bro. W. P. Willis, extra agent, is now working as freight clerk in Baltimore. Bro. “Cy” Morgan has gone into the mer- cantile business with his brother down state. Cert. 1461. New York Division — The brothers on this division Bhould all try and be present at our meetings held at 841 Broad street. Newark, N. J., at 10 a. m. and 8 p. m. every fourth Wednesday, each month. Brothers, this is ybur place of business where things can be talked over regarding inequalities in the pay of positions, etc. Every employe who believes he is not get- ting just treatment should file his griev- ance with the committee that will take up the various cases tha| now exist on this division as soon as it gets the word to do so. The balloting Dec. 6th and 6th caused considerable activity, resulting in a big ma- jority vote for our organization on this as well as other divisions in this vicinity, especially the Trenton Division, including the agents. This was the first democratic method ever adopted for our class on the Penney and the result shows that the men desired our organization in preference to any other because they know what it has done for them; that it is an established in- ternational organization which only asks for what Is fair. Its officers have carried the fight on the Pennsylvania Lines East with- out taking any action that would handicap the Government in running the railroads. ‘Ibis is of paramount interest to our mem- bers, as well as to those who do not belong to our organization, when we take into con- sideration the large number of employes or- ganized and the long delay in reaching the point of mutual understanding brought about through the recent balloting of the employes. Every member should endeavor to give extra good service as our officers have stead- fastly requested, so that we may be able to demonstrate whaf an organization with members interested in their work can do. Let our motto be “Superior service” and make our standing still better known. This is the time when the members should exert themselves to bring in new members. Show the none why they should line up. They have no excuse for not taking their places along side of the men who are paying for the improved working conditions and in- creases in salary they are enjoying, which is not fair to them. They do not receive any more than the non-member and should not be expected to make such sacrifices. Men who labor must depend upon a system whereby they can combine. Most of the railroad employes have combined and are earning far more than the unorganized can ever expect to until they are unionized. Unorganized employes are a mighty big fac- tor in making it hard for those who are or- ganized and working with them to secure better wages and working conditions. General Chairman Miller and the mem- bers of the reduced general committee, who have piloted us through rough seas into a safe harbor are entitled to the greatest pos- sible credit from the employes of the Lines East. There is now no good reason for any teleg- rapher remaining out of the Order. The bal- lot has settled any controversy as to our right to be recognized as the only organiza- tion to represent that class on the Pensy. Talk to the agent whom you work with and show him why he should be in our organi- zation. It has benefitted him as well as all the others throughout the whole country. Keep the good work up, boys, and we are bound to succeed. Yours fraternally, John H. Praul. N. Y., P. & N. Division— Bro. Justis recently made a trip to Nor- folk, relieved by Bro. Davis; Bro. Gillis re- lieved for Xmas holidays by Extra Dicker- son, and Bro. Mears by Extra Baker, while attending to his watch and diamond trade. Bro. Bell was relieved a few days by Bro. Chum, later relieved dh a trip by an extra. Bro. Clayton, Relief Schedule No. 1, is off sick. We have experienced very little trouble getting ofT this season, thanks to Chief Clerk Hamlet. Three men from main line went over to “N” and Bro. Mitchens, first ”AJ,” taking Digitized by Google

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216 The Railroad Telegrapher. third there, vice Bro. Copper to second, and Bro. Taylor, third “WD.” bid in first “AU.” Telegraphers are supposed to have intelli- gence enough at least to understand the meaning of and the strength there is in or- ganization and that they should pay their share toward its maintenance. There is no excuse for “none,” they all can read or they would not be working, and information in regard to the organization and its accom- plishments is easily obtainable. Therefore it shouldn’t be necessary to have to go after them. They should have gumption enough to look after their own interests. The extra men are getting plenty of work now. Let’s see that, they Join without any further delay. Cert. 6275. Philadelphia Division r— Bro. McNeal from the P. & R. presided at our last meeting and gave us some real in- formation. Many who want to know what is going on failed to attend, even after hav- ing been given special invitations to be present. Some were seen on the streets that morning who were not there, and those brothers who are always complaining that we never have no meetings were conspicu- ous by their absence. You could all have learned something interesting about our craft by being there. Don’t only belong to the O. R. T. for the privilege of carrying a card, but attend every meeting you pos- sibly can and back up your local chairman. It is about time that we put into prac- tiec our motto : “No cardt no favors ” on the few nons we have left, and pay our own dues promptly,, so that we always will have an up-to-date to show them that we have a right to insist that they come in and help to pay for what the Order has already secured for them. We are all anxiously waiting for word of our schedule, something we have never yet had on this division. Let us show' the management by the way we perform our duties that it pays to have O. R. T. men in the employ of the P. R. R. Bro. Bowman bids fair to become a "ton- sorial artist” with his new hair cutter. Bro. Sam Meloy is thinking of going fish- ing through the ice, if someone will lend him an axe. Bro. Foreman will be hieing himself to Columbia as soon as it is warm enough to bathe in the “Dreamy Susquehanna.” Bro. Eppler, “UD,” is passing the “smokes” on account of congratulations over the arrival of that new boy “Ole St. Nick” brought him on Christmas. Bro. A. H. Root is now on first and Bro. Hickey on second “DF,” and Bros. Andrews and Bowers at “DO,” 11 to 7. Bro. “Pete” Reynolds is home at last, and Bros. Brandt and Hess are singing “There’s no place like home.” Let our resolution be a 100 per cent membership; good service; good attendance at our meetings at Harrisburg, Pa., the first Tuesday of each month, and “No card, n$ favors /• “O Enz” Cert. 1008. Philadelphia Division Notes — We still have a few nons reaping the ben- efits of the increase in salary, too poor or close-fisted to pay a little to the O. R. T. as dues, in appreciation of the 840.00 or more increase secured through our commit- tee which represented us in Washington, D. C. Since the winter train schedule went Into effect there have been several changes. On the Lebanon Branch, R. J. Keath, “SC* Colebrook, has been transferred to Lebanon freight house, succeeded by Morris Greiner as relief agent-operator, who recently re- lieved Ira Triest, agent-operator “QN” Mt Gretna, and Bro. W. E. Doxtater, agent- operator “SC.” Keith and Greiner are both ex-Service men. Bros. Holllinger and Hostetter are now on “F” Harrisburg side wire, relieved by Swetland and Fridy on “JN” Lebanon first and second. i Bro. Robert Good, regular relief agent- operator, works the two days relief between “WR” Lawn and “JN,” and Bro. Hambright is relief operator between Landlsville and “DF” tower. “NA” tower, closed several months, was opened in October; Bros. Hess and Brandt on the job again. Bro. Crist, clerk-operator second “CN” Cornwall, has returned from two weeks’ vacation. Cbrt. 5501. “PO” General Relay, Philadelphia— News came in too late for last month, so we had to double up for this issue. The night force . appreciates the cigars sent Christmas by Bro. Getchell, “Q” of Go- Pittsburgh, and they wish him Happy New Year. New arrivals: Bro. Wainwright from the Delaware road and Bro. Mitchell from the P. T. Division. Bro. Pinkey, Wilson “A,” broke one of his ribs not long ago on his way to work, but he came right in and went to work as usual. You can always rely on “Pinkey.” From all indications it appears that match between “Ide” and Bro. Barney McMahon will soon' be clinched, as he is becoming well known by the conductors on the Schuylkill Valley. Don’t forget to tip us off, Barney. Bros. Keene and Kilmon back on middle trick. Bro. Kilmon does not appear to be contented, as he likes to work at night ✓ We are now prepared to take care of grievances Just as soon as our general chair- man arranges matters with the big boys. We recently elected a committee for that pur- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 217 pose, consisting of Bro. Cochran, chairman, and Bros. Butler and Lucy. After a considerable number of years' eervlce, Robert J. Park, one of our assistant chief operators, retired. This causes a move up among the A. C. O.s. Purse on first, Schiasler on middle and George Murray back on nights. Bro. Betterldge was up to his home in Shenandoah for the Christmas holidays. We understand our friend. Bill Garrett, is a visitor to our city of brotherly love quite frequently. Cert. 7 IS. Philadelphia Terminal Division — Our Philadelphia banquet has again gone Into history. The committee — Bros. Dewey, chairman ; Gulley, secretary ; McGlnley, treasurer; Dull, Bradley, Hutton, Porter, Tatlow, McAllister, Sheldon, Miller, Frank- eafield, Carr and Sisters Beck, Blatt and Pubance — at this writing, Janu- ary 22nd, has taken Anal action and the affair will be over when this is read; Hotel Walton having again been se- lected for the event, Lincoln’s birthday, February 12th, agreed upon as the date, and the charge $3.00. Owing to heavy mail during the Christ- mas holidays, our January write-up arrived at St Louis two days too late for publica- tion. Our sympathy goes out to Bros. Dewey aid Buckley, owing to the sad loss recently suffered in their families. "Suffrage Exercised on the Pennsylvania IAnes Bast” is the title of a flattering report on pages 33-34 of the January Journal, which will be read with pride by the inter- ested telegraphers and by the craft generally, as this final outcome carries with it sig- nificance and progress of untold impor- tance. The rumor that one of the members of this division cast his vote hgainst the 0. R. T. is incorrect We feel that this an- nouncement is justly due the brother. W. H. George, former first trick director at "K,” retired and now living in New Jer- sey, visiting in Philadelphia recently, wished to be remembered to all the boys. He is looking fine and enjoying his long-looked-for “vacation.” The exceptionally severe winter weather in this region is keeping all the P. T. boys scratching in order to secure a healthy feed bag, as meal cards are at the top sotcA now. The ”A” and ”B” tower boys experienced a strenuous holiday season ; travel and the other business greatly ex- ceeding normal. The subway and the other surface towermen were likewise affected. The aero manipulator Is causing the firemen at ”B” some anxiety with the heat- ing problem, owing to the small quantity of coal furnished, possibly because of the weent coal strike. All the annual and term passes here are extended till the end of February. Local Chairman Dewey will soon require a business car if the rush keeps up. If you did not get your annual card yet, better do so quick, before they are all gone. "Fourteen Points How to Embalm and Bury a Division” is the title of an at- tractive, though solemn and brief, discourse by Cert. 673, Div. 88, on the first page. Fraternal Notes, page 82, January Telbo- ft&PHER. This is a sad, perhaps humorous and original epitaph, and entitled to some consideration. Cert. 2070. No. 133 Ardmore Ave., Ardmore, Pa. Schuylkill Division— Regular monthly meetings will now be held on the third Friday of each month in Moore’s Building, Fifth and Penn streets, Reading, Pa., at 8 :30 a. m. and 4 :00 p. m. On January 16th we had very enthusiastic meetings, both morning and afternoon, with a good attendance. We expect to deal more definitely in regard to the relief schedule, and urge you to attend these meetings. Would also suggest that we Inform our brother conductors and engineers that every time they take a train order they lessen the prospect of opening closed offices. They have no right legally to take them, as they work more than nine hours. Pay up, help our officers to keep the Order moving, and boost the " Plumb Plan.” There Is only one way to reduce the in creasing operating expenses of the railroads, and that is by public ownership. Cert. 676. Williamsport Division — Now that the question as to whether the O. R. T. is the legitimate organisation to represent the employes in the telegraph de- partment has been settled on the Pennsyl- vania, we shall soon be enjoying the benefit of working under an up-to-date schedule, something that will be appreciated mostly by the boys who stood by the organisation during the past few troublous years. With this schedule in sight, it behooves each of us to do our utmost to aid our local chair- man in his duties. If any have not paid their dues for the current term, kindly do so immediately, so that he may finish with his routine work as quickly as possible and be able to devote more of his time to necessary new work. The abolition of the relief schedules seems to be a certainty, but we hope this question can be satisfactorily settled in some manner, when our committee meets the general man- ager to draw up the new schedule. Cert. 162. We shall certainly be very much pleased if our committee is able to persuade the mem- Digitized by Google

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218 The Railroad Telegrapher. bers of the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions that our wages need re- adjusting in order that we may successfully cope with the H. C. L., and we must keep our organization at its highest point of efficiency, and if we cannot secure adequate compensation we must stretch our dollars by co-operative purchasing of the necessities of life. The Maintenance of Way and Shop Labor- ers' organization is leading the railroad pro- cession in this and the O. R. T. should fall into line. The farmers have practiced it through their granges for many years, and many large corporations are purchasing and distributing numerous articles to their em- ployes at cost The Railroad Brotherhoods, with their combined memberships and finances, could make a large saving for their members through co-operative purchasing. The Co- operative Congress called to convene in Chicago, February 12th to 15th, inclusive, may put Into effect a comprehensive plan for uniting all co-operative societies in the Unit- ed States, starting the movement on Lin- coln’s birthday to Americanize American in- dustry and make it truly efficient for the serv- ice of the American people. Any who may have neglected to forward their dues should remit the amount at once; then if our national officers enter the co- operative movement we can back it 100 per cent strong. Cert. 152. Buffalo Division , Salamanaca Branch — Local Chairman Delehant was over the branch January 16th, and gave us a line on what was doing in Washington. A grievance committee has been organ- ized, consisting of three agents and three op- erators, headed by Bro. Delehant. to adjust any grievance we may have. Brothers should refer them to their local member of this com- mittee. As it is impossible to adjust grievances personally, advise the nons with or near you to get an up to date at once, as the com- mittee can only represent members of our organization. Holding regular meetings at some con trenient point on the division where all can attend and get better acquainted, Is unde* consideration. The greatest trouble with these meetings is that the members do not turn out as well as they should, possibly be- cause they have been called on rather short notice, whereas If a regular day or date established, each member would know a fuP month ahead Just when and where the meet- ing would be held and could arrange ac- cordingly. Keep after the few nons on this branch. Each member be a committee of one ; get in touch with them, and if you cannot land your prospect, report to Bro. Delehant. If they can keep away from "Bill" they will have to go some. We would like to have each issue of the Journal contain some items from this divi- sion. If any of the brothers have any news of interest, pass it along, so that it can be sent to the Journal not later than the 20th of each month. E. A. Long, Cert. 6S31. Tyrone Division — FLOWER FUND. Dues received to Dec. 31, 1919 $62.15 Paid out to Dec. 31, 1919 42.09 Balance on hand Jan. 1, 1920 $14.06 (Signed) W. A. St allsmith, President S. G. Tressi.br, Treasurer. J, L. Oswalt, Secretary. Our flower fund has been a success. A great many of the brothers have already sent their dues for 1920. Those who have not sent theirs, please remit Let us have a better year in 1920 than In 1919, al- though it was a good start Cert. 2133. . Monongahela Division— At each recurring dues-paylng period there are always a few members who start the cry “I am not going to pay any more dues un- less there is something doing." There is something doing all the time. The O. R. T. never sleeps. Its grand, general and local officers are “on the job,” looking after the interests of the members all the times. If they don’t get discouraged at times, it’s no fault of these half-hearted members. If this “something” they are forever ex- pecting to happen is increased wages,* let me say that they received enough through the efforts of the organization in 1918-19 to pay their dues for the rest of their natural lives, and when they talk of dropping out they are injuring themselves much more than the or- ganization which Is continually striving to better their condition. If this something they are looking for means the successful consummation of our ef- forts for recognition, I can say that there is something doing on that, too , as I get com- munications every week; but when I call meetings only a few are Interested enough to attend. It’s hardly to be expected of me to call up each and every member and disseminate this information on the phone. Stop kicking, pay up your dues and «#- sessments promptly, and thereby protect yourself and your beneficiaries. H. A. Roberts, Local Chairman. Monongahela Division Notes — Understand ex-Train Dispatcher Court- right Is coming back train dispatching, which will start some bumping. It seems strange that a train dispatcher can take another Job* with promotion, and as soon as he loses out. Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 219 resume his seniority rights ; but an operator has to start at the bottom. The present train dispatchers are making a stand on this case and we wish them success, so a repetition does not occur. Business is picking up fast, another trick being put on at West Brownsville and all three at Grindstone Jet. During the rush after the recent coal strike all offices on the main track were open continuous, but have again been closed on Sunday. There is another new industry in sight, as all the bottoms In Dravosburg have been bought up. This will mean increased traffic and additional tracks, and probably new of- fices. We certainly have a staunch friend in Congressman W. J. Burke. I hope you read bis defense of government mediation boards in the December Journal. There have been some salty suspensions handed out recently, through neglect of duty, and to avoid this we will have to get busy, as the officials are constantly on the lookout for any infractions of the rules. Bro. J. W. Lyons recently had the nerve to get married. The membership extends their hearty congratulations and good wishes to the happy couple. In the recent balloting four operators voted for the O. R. T. D. A. & S., one unintention- ally. The other three have not been heard from. We came through with a two-thirds majority, thereby winning over the station agents. This is a great victory for the O. R, T., and the only way to maintain it is to be op to date at all times. It is about time we were hearing from Mr. Hines on the recent request for an increase is wages, etc. Signal repairmen have heard what they can expect, even though they have not got it yet. ▲ former brother member, C. J. Shannon, is among us again. Could not stay away. I positively cannot keep up the cor- respondence on the south end If I do not get the notes. I have asked for them before. Someone try your hand at it and contribute a few every month. It helps considerable. We have not heard a word from anybody on the proposed flower fund. Keqp in mind the motto, “No card, no favors” and it will not be long until the “nons” will be begging for application blanks. Quite a few operators were off during the holidays, making work for all the available extra operators. A number could not be re- lieved on account of the shortage of extras. W. B. Jones, Cert 881. “GO” Relay, Pittsburgh, Pa.— F. J. W. Spobrer’s resignation makes room for one whose sympathy is with the Order. You single fellows, watch your step. The ftrlp are right on the Job. Remember, this is leap year, too. The girls in the printer room, when asked what notes they wished to appear in the Journal for February, replied : “We ap- preciate more every day what the O. R. T. has done for us.” These few words speak volumes. Some of the telegraphers in this office are so blind to this fact that we fear they have been drinking wood alcohoL Keep after them, so that their names may appear on our honor roll. Several of our brothers and sisters have taken the rubber bands off the bank rolls Bro. Hindmareh and Local Chairman Clifton worked so hard to secure for them and in- vested in oil and gas stock in the new Mc- Keesport fields ; also several others, who eagerly took their back pay and increased wages without contributing one iota to the Order’s success, and are selfishly expecting more, through the Order's efforts to make telegraphy a better profession for them. We have in mind one non who drew nearly $400 /back pay last October, and not only refuses to take out a card but has treated our local officers disrespectfully. These Individuals take a chance on an un- certainty, figuring on a gamble to increase their earnings, but are unwilling to invest in “proven territory,” where guaranteed divi- dends are coming along every two weeks, by taking out a card in the organization that has done more for them within the last two years than any other factor within the last twenty. Oil and gas certificates are pretty to be- hold, but many a “duster” has been drilled In, not of the feather variety, either, to tickle the holders. We hope our boys and girls will make out all right in this speculation, but should they fail, there will be only a very few to show the yellow streak and “holler” enough. This class of barnacles are always looking for something for nothing, but yell when they get pinched. Cert. 7611. Cincinnati Div. and C., L. & N. R. R.— Members of the Gem City Telegraphers: Club whose dues are in arrears are requested to pay up as soon as possible, either by attending meetings and paying the secretary and treasurer personally, or by sending them with some member who does attend. The members should try to get in a few new members. Initiation fee $1.00, and dues 50 cents a month. The latter may be re- duced to 26 cents a month if enough mem- bers are secured. Any member of the O. R. T. in good standing is eligible to member- ship. The club has furnished the rooms in the Arcade, Dayton, O., very home-like, mak- ing it an ideal place to hold meetings or to spend a few hours any time you drop in. We Will need the assistance of all our craft to hold what we have secured under govern- ment control if the roads go back to private Digitized by tjOOQle

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220 The Railroad Telegrapher. management Let’s make our division 100 per cent before that time. In order to do this every member should attend the meetings held by our L. C. and show him that we are interested in our own welfare. Don’t leave all the burdens upon his shoulders. Invests gate the new operators employed on the divi- sion and if they do not hold an up to date, line them up; also get after some of the long-standing “nons.” They may be ready to Join now. Send Bra Stone a copy of your bids and submit your grievances to him or the com- mittee in writing. Discontinue the practice of “chewing” them over on the fone, before trying to adjust matters through the proper channel. Bro. Demitt, “MS,” came home with a 28- pound turkey from the shooting match at Kings Mills. Bro. Sacker, “BN," spent part of the holi- days in Lancaster, O., relieved by Extra Agent Smith. Bro. Trainer, “KM,” fell on the ice Xmas day and received a bad cut on the head. It is now Bro. Kandall at Penna. and B. & O. tower, Xenia. I have to depend upon outside items, as I do not have the time to learn of all the news that might be of interest I have been too busy for the past month or so to collect any items on this division or the C., L. & N. ; but a kind-hearted brother sent me a few. Some of you other brothers follow suit J. W. Sink, Cert. 3600, 316 High St, Xenia, O. Louisville Division — Bro. R. C. Fox, first “GF” tower, off three weeks with mumps, relieved by Bro. R. G. Fox, second there. Bro. Heeb, third Shelbyvllle, relieved by Bro. P. E. Prather while working at the C. I. & W. consolidated station, Rushville. Bro. Chandler, third Columbus, relieved a few nights by Bro. H. M. Davis, third Gar- den. Bro. U. G. Sweet, first “GU” tower, relieved Bro. Herman Williams at Scottsburg ten days, owing to Mrs. Williams being operated on for appendicitis, who, we are glad to state, is recovering nicely. Bro. Jones relieved Bro. Hultsch, second Shelbyville, a month on account of his moth- er's illness. Bro. Smart, second Garden, sick three weeks, relieved by Bro. Prather. Bro. Hinshaw relieved Bro. Shumway* second “AY” tower, owing to the illness of himself and family. BrO. McClain, after relieving Bro. C. O. Lind, third Waynesville, relieved Bro. Haw- kins, third “AY” tower, on sick list. We extend our sincere sympathy to Bro. Hitchborn, agent Joneeville, over the recent death of his father; also to Bro. Harry x Schnell and family for the loss of their little daughter. Bra B. W. Hatton, second Peters, was re- lieved a few days by Bro. Peelerr Bros. B. W. Hatton and F. L. Vest have each purchased a new plana Bro. Ben King, first Waynesville, has caught several “possums” and “coons” this winter. Brothers, pay your dues and keep in good standing. If you fail to pay up at once you forfeit your membership the same date the roads are expecting to return to private con- trol. when we may have taken away what the government gave us while under its control. Unless we keep organized we will have to take whatever is handed to us. Remember, “No card, no favors to the nons, and continue trying to line them up. Thanks to Bros. U. G. Sweet and C. Q. Lind for items, the only two who sent me any. Don’t forget to read the “Personal Men- tion” columns. H. M. Davis, 1022 Ninth St., Columbus, Ind. Columbus Division — We now have two “sisters” on this division — Sister Lingrel, at Hayden, and Sister Wil- liamson, at “DK” Columbus. Printer. It is deplorable that we have some old men in service accepting the benefits we have se- cured for them and giving nothing in return. The O. R. T. has placed. its mantle of pro- tection around us by procuring a signed agreement that hereafter we should receive our rights. Having vacancies bulletined, something never dreamed of before, is alone worth the price we paid, saying nothing of the other benefits we are enjoying. Beware that in your enjoyment and imagined security you do not grow lax and have them taken away. Just as long as you desire these things to exist your rights will be respected; but you must keep your shoulders to the wheel and help yourselves. So far it has been comparatively easy sail- ing with the U. 8. behind us in all we at- tempted, but the crisis comes March 1st if we go back where we were, whether or not it is to be the old haphazard, never-know- where-you-stood methods of business.' You are to be the judge Your cards will show which way you prefer it to be Be careful of your ballot. This division has a great deal to be proud of. Our slacker list is even smaller than I really ever hoped to see. I believe we are all so well pleased with the present ways that we are not going back for- the few dollkrs It costs to stay in the protected list. My de- linquent list will show how you feel. Be fair with yourself if not with anyone else, remembering the old saying, ‘ 'United we stand, divided we fall.” P. L. Mabtin, Local Chairman. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 221 “DK” Columbus , Ohio— This office is solid, with the exception of one of the printer girls and chief operator. They received about >600. Ob back pay dur- ing the past year, but cannot see their way clear to come in. Even if certain persons will not admit that the O. R. T. was responsible for their receiving a raise, it certainly does not say much for a person’s consistency who will not believe in a thing that produces something for their personal gain, and accept it They do not believe in the cause, but oh, how they love the effect. The difference between the old and new rate of pay may fairly be said to represent the price for which these people will sacrifice any principle or scruple which they may hold. Bro. Price was In New York several weeks In December. Bros. Boland and Durnell cov- ered his trick. Thanks to Local Chairman Martin, all cases taken up for adjustment in "DK" have been settled, and in our favor. All the men in this office now know what they are en- titled to and there is more of a spirit of satis- faction than there ever was before we had a schedule. Everyone has a channel through which to take up any grievance which may arise and get what is their rights. Santa Claus was a little late arriving for Sister Williamson, our second trick printer operator, but when he arrived, January 5 th, he brought her about five months’ back pay. Bro. Durnell was initiated into the Masons recently, and Bro. Barret crossed the “hot ■anda" on a trip to Mecca last month. Csrt. 4942. ZaiteaviTle Division — Goston, closed owing to coal strike, re- opened by Bro. C. F. Ater, “CS“ tower sec- ond. Bro. Armstrong, third Lancaster, relieved by Richardson, had his arm broken while cranking a “Lixeie.” Bro. Bott, third “FA” Cabin, while out on a hunting trip recently, fell into the creek. He apparently had less trouble than Bro. R. D. Welty, who, while hunting south of Bre- men, barely missed shooting Bro. Smuckers’ hound, lost an overshoe, five hours’ rest, 60 centB worth of shells, and arrived home game- less. Let’s have more news from the lovers of the fields. Bro. Frame, second McLuney, has re- turned from a holiday visit with relatives in Akron, 0.. relieved by Bro. O. D. Brown. Bro. Day, second Circleville, while attend- ing the funeral of his grandmother, was re- lieved by Wiley. Bro. W. C. Foster, Wilmington, has re- turned from a months’ absence, looking after hh oil interests in Texas, relieved by Bro. D. R. Harbaugh. Bros. Armstrong, Williams, and Obendier were recently married. Extra Dispatcher Bro. Brown relieved Dis- patcher Horton, O. R. & W., relieving Bro. F. W. Barks, relief dispatcher “X,” while he and wife spent several days in Pittsburgh. O. R. & W. Ry. — Bro. Taylor, agent Woodsfleld, resigned, succeeded by Bro. Pettay, operator-clerk there, and he by Bro. Sims, agent Captina, re- lieved by Bro. Hupp. Extra Dispatcher Brown relieved Second Trick Dispatcher Horton, who went to Sum- merfield to bring his wife home, where she has been recuperating from the effects of a falL We rejoice with him in his wife’s re- covery. Brothers, keep after the two or three extra men who have not yet joined, and the few delinquents on the Zanesville Division and O. R. & W. Let’s make our membership X00 per cent If you want to see a write-up on this divi- sion each month, send your notes to Local Chairman Yahn, third “SY.“ W. B. Ruckbr, Cert. 3926. E. A A. Division — The joint meeting held by the Penna., B. & O. and Erie at the Ohio Hotel, Youngstown, wai well attended by the former, but the B. & O. and the Erie boys seemed to fall down on the job. Bro. Sheldon gave us an Interesting talk, followed by Bro. O’Neil, chairman of the Erie. To make these meetings a success every- one possible should be present and see what is going on. Our worthy chairman is doing all in his power for our benefit, but unless we help him his efforts will be fruitless. About twenty-five brothers and sisters were present at the meeting held for second and third trick members at the Ohio Hotel, Jan- uary 16th. We are glad to have the sisters with us. Several were present who had never attended a meeting before, on account of working second or third tricks. Understand Bro. Mahan, Brlstolville, has a twelve-year-old office cat that jumps up on the window and makes signs with its paws if anyone calls “BC,” when he goes up to the station. Recently it accidentally opened the key, and he is now obliged to keep it out- side. “Polly of the Circus,” “The Old Home- stead,” “Way Down East,” or “Broken Blos- soms” have nothing on the telephones re- cently installed. One can hear the latest crop market, “Why Jones Left Home,” “The Sweetest Story Every Told” and all others too numerous to mention. If you desire an evening's enjoyment, just listen on the tele- phone any evening after 8 p. m. It is now Bro. Martin at “NK.” Believing that two can live much cheaper than one, he acted accordingly, and congratulations are now in order. Digitized by Google

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222 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Wheeler guarantees that the oil struck on his farm is the genuine stuff. He says when the geese went up near the big pool they immediately turned and went back to the river. Geese have no use for “lubricat- ing” fluid. Bro. Hollister has struck a gas well on his farm hear “GR.” We hope it pans out fine and he will pipe some of it down this way. We sure need it. Bro. Sheldon’s speech at Youngstown, de- fending the Plumb Plan, was somewhat of a scorcher, and the way the boys responded shows they were much in line with the plan. Some of the brothers were wondering if Bro. Sheldon had ever traveled with a medicine show. 1 have it on good authority that he never did, but he says if he don’t get a raise pretty soon he will have to take up some side line. He was recently relieved by Sister McDonough several days while going over the division. Bro. Allen, second “SI” tower, visiting rel- atives in West Virginia, has returned, re- lieved by Bro. Liggett ; Bro. Galpin, third “SI” tower, off New Year’s, by Bro. R. H. Knierman; Sister Wilson, second Haselton, off sick a few days, by Sister Maloney, who also relieved Sister Spear, third Quakjertown, several weeks on account of sickness; and Sister Rush, second Quakertown, on vaca- tion, was relieved by Bro. Fulkerson. Bro. Collins, first Detour, was relieved by Bro. Gray while on grievance work. * Cert. 8602. C. & P. Division — I have accepted the appointment of cor- respondent, with the provision that every brother on the division will assist me. With- out this we cannot have a regular write-up. I shall endeavor to put the items in proper form for publication and mail them to SL Louis, but I cannot canvass the entire divi- sion. Let me have your notes not later than the 20th of each month. Broth era, don't air your grievances to out- siders. When investigated by the proper of- ficials, you may find they were largely imag- inary ones ; if not, they can easily be settled satisfactorily to all concerned. In any event you cannot get them adjusted by withdraw- ing from the Order, thus preventing those in position to remedy them from doing so. Do not allow anyone to spread vicious and untruthful propaganda about the Order and pass it by unnoticed, but bring such matters to the attention of your general chairman at once. Disrespectful language regarding any of our brother workmen breeds discon- tent and discouragement and discredits a worthy cause. Brother, don’t forget to contribute your dime to the flower fund each month. Let us have your suggestions about this and any- thing else that will tend to uplift our organi- zation. We are entirely too negligent or backward in expressing our views or making suggestions for our own betterment. Don’t be satisfied with “A” division, but endeavor to be “It” — the best division on the whole system, and to accomplish this it will require our united effort. Keep after the non* and also see that the brothers with or near you lo not allow themselves to become delinquent Don't wait until you have to be called on for your dues, either, but send the money in to- day. Bro. Ray Bayard has moved into his new home. No doubt he appreciates what the O. R. T. made possible. Bro. Ruff Bayard off a few weeks, settling up his father’s estate, relieved by Bro. Han- non, Minerva Jet., relieved by Sister Spear. Bro. Sutton, Minerva Jet., quarantined for scarlet fever, relieved by Miss Zimmerman. Our old friend, Bro. Dan McKinnon, is back after five years' viewing Western scen- ery. He always carries an up-to-date. Bro. Davidson, second Wei Isv ille, off with typhoid fever, relieved by Bro. Stewart W « are all glad to hear he is improving and wish him a speedy recovery. Brothers, let us line up the few non* left— Dry Run, Malvern and Foarnelle first, an extra in Cleveland District, and Union Depot Cleveland, first and third. Brothers, this is my first attempt. Let me hear from you all. Furnish me with the news and I will see that it is fixed up for publication. You brothers on the River Divi- sion, also on the Branch, send in some nptea We want all of you to be represented, so we can have a good write-up each month. G. R. Martin, Cert. 2976. 1648 Hollyrood R. D., Cleveland, Ohio. FLORAL FUND. Started in January. Receipts up to January 22, 1920 : Bro. Sheehan’s district $1.60 Bro. H. O. Mangus’ district 8.10 Bro. C. Mangus’ district 1.30 Bro. Martin’s district 1.60 Bro. Mylar’s district — no report Bro. Maher’s district — no report Total $7.60 Expenditures : Flowers for sick locally $2.00 Balance $6.60 Ira A. Rice, Sec’y & Treas. Pan Handle Division — Start the new year right by getting an up-to-date card, and try to land the few nons. Remember our motto, “No card, no favors .” Prove to the company that an O. R. T. member is the only man to have by answer- Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 223 ing your calls on the wire and keep trains moving. The O. R. T. Club and Order meets in the Husler Building, Carnegie, the second Wed- nesday of every month. The new office at Canonsburg was put In service January 6th. Bro. Koran, who went to "GO" Relay, was relieved by Bro. Welsh on third "DU” Pitts- burgh. Bro. Evans relieved several days by Bro. Beaumont, Who later relieved Bro. Cale, third **MP” Oakdale, a few days on account of sickness. Bro. Wheeland, "CB” third, and Bro. Wal- cutt, "RD” first, were sick several days ; lat- ter relieved by Bro. Tilton, who also relieved Bro. Cornett, *'WF” third, one day. Bro. Esplon, Rosslyn, relieved a few days by Bro. Oates, "JB” third, relieved by Bro. Brown. Bro. Hubbard relieved Bro. McNamara, second "BH,” and Bro. Phillips, second "CH” tower, one day. Bro. Lacy, third Trinway, was off several nights, owing to the arrival of a baby boy. A third trick message Job lias been put on there. Bro. Parish succeeded Bro. McGinnis on "CA” third, who went to "MR” second. We are glad to see Bro. Cole back at ”RT” third again. W. J. Brown, Cert. 6995. Indianapolis Division- After five months spent in California and Nevada, recovering from the effects of the "flu,” I have returned and again been re- quested to act as your division correspondent, on account of Bro. MfcKee being unable to give it the proper attention, due to the many other duties of his office. I am also ap- pointed secretary to the local board of ad- justment, and I trust that I may have the whole-hearted support of every member on the division in carrying on this work, for I feel sure that all of us desire to see our divi- sion represented herq each month, and there is absolutely no reason why we cannot be. My recent trip has proven to me that we need more “pep” on this Indianapolis Divi- sion. If it were possible for me to communi- cate to you the enthusiasm manifested by the boys along the Salt Lake or Southern Pacific lines, I am sure you would catch the spirit of “doing” They are not satisfied with merely paying their dues, looking at the pic- tures in the magazine and tossing it in the corner. They talk, act and enforce O. R. T. with the same consideration and in the same spirit in which they regard their other du- ties. As a result, there are very few “none” because they natuvally get the impression that if the thing is good enough for some, it’s all right for the "bunch.” The few “none** on this division should be given very plainly to understand this. It is the intention of our local chairman to pub- lish their names shortly, so we may all know “who*e who” It seems evident that our ranks will re- ceive a severe test within the next year, so let us use concerted effort to strengthen them now, in view of this impending danger, that the foundation of our cause may be more strongly cemented with our desire for Jus- tice, ability and determination. < I have received no news this month, there- fore can furnish no items of changes ; so let me have them next time, sure. B. B. Walters. M ember e Western Division : Words fail to express my appreciation of the $46 Christmas check presented to me by the boys of this division. I can only say, "I thank you/' and assure you that I shall make every effort to prove myself worthy of the splendid gift. With kindest regards and best wishes to all, I am, Fraternally, C. A. Jana, Local Chairman. Western Division Notes — Brothers, have you all paid your dues for this period. Remember, if you have not, that March 1st you become delinquent, and you surely do not want that to happen. Bro. J. Fudenski was off a few days on ac- count of sickness and death of his father-in- law, Bro. Dumph relieving. Bro. Seibert back at Plymouth after sev- eral days' illness, and Bro. M. S. Lutes, ex- tra, has been taken to Fort Wayne hospital for treatment. On Christmas eve, while Bro. J. F. Shaffer of Bucyrus, Ohio, was on his way home, he was attacked by two men, who evidently mis- took him for someone else. They fired sev- eral shots at him. One bullet that took effect was removed and he is able to be on duty again. Has each and every brother written to his Congressman and Senators, informing them what they think about the pending railroad and peace time sedition bills? If not, you should do so at once, for those bills are all against the interests of union labor. Bro. D. C. McClellan, Liverpool, has re- signed and taken a position with the City of Gary. F. W. Berg, Roy Jones and H. C. Berg are now members. B. J. F., Cert. 2456. “CHOO” Term. Div. ( Fort Wayne Side)— The boys in "XN” are being interrupted by irresponsible persons listening in. We should not allow this, but do all we can to help them when sending to different offices at the same time, by keeping these parties away from the phones. This relay office, "XN,” is solid, and the whole Chicago Terminal Division cannot be beaten for good, loyal members, thanks to Digitized by Google

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224 The Railroad Telegrapher. Local Chairman Leslie. Boys, let’s help every way possible to make it easier for him to keep things running smoothly, and thus show our appreciation for the good work he has done and will keep on doing. Bro. Hardy, third “HU," had the distinc- tion (and admiration of all present) of flash- ing the first annual 1920 card at our last local meeting. They are something to be proud of, and we hope to see many of them at our meeting this month. The regular monthly meeting of the Key- stone O. R. T. Club, January 6th, was well attended and our new president, Bro. Man- ders, made a good start. This club Is doing good work and invites you to come regularly and bring as many boys from the other lines with you as you can. Bro. Capronigra is back on third “CJ” af- ter relieving at #*GB” over the holidays. Sympathy is extended to Bro. Wills and family for 'the loss of their little daughter. Flowers were presented by the Keystone O. R. T. Club. Bro. C. F. Wagner, third leverman “IH" bridge, is confined at his home with pneu- monia. We wish him a speedy recovery. Bro. Mann, first “FD," is ofT with the “flu," but hopes to be back soon. Bro. Wooters, second “GH," is visiting “pa" and "ma“ back In Kokomo, Ind. “Shorty" will probably be shorter and fatter than ever when he returns. There is a contest at “OD" yard office among the night force as to who ii? the most attractive. At present Yardrpaster Fitzger- ald has the ribbon for good looks and Bro. Holsclaw second prize for his “singing." A competent jury is needed for a Anal decision. C*BT. 2622. Peoria Division — Bro. E. 8. Coyle has resigned as corre- spondent of this division. All offices that were open three hours on Sunday from Jan. 1st to June 30th, 1919, have received back pay at time and one-half, and the noon hour has been secured, by the adjustment board (where two operators were working nine hours each with the noon hour counted out), at Oakland, Arthur, Lovlngton and Morton. When we have a just grievance all we have to do Is to take it up with our local chair- man and it will be attended to. He should be notified any time we see that the sched- ule is violated. The wires have been taken out at Isabel and that job is open again as a non-tele- graph station. Bro. W. F. Hybarger at Paris has taken out an annual, a good example for us all to follow, as it saves work for the officers and expenses to the division. The requests for whereabouts of old-time friends in the “Address Wanted” column, Personal Dept, of Thi Telegrapher, brings good results. Recently a request of that kind by a brother on this division for news of old friends of thirty years ago was noted by another operator at the Union Station, Terre Haute, who. gave him the desired in- formation concerning all of them. Thanks to Bros. Hybarger and Noble for most of this write-up, which was sent in for the January edition but reached St. Louis too late for that number, on account of the 26th coming on a holiday and the force all being off duty. Try and get your notes in before the 26th, as it might delay publica- tion should a large number of the corre- spondents get their items in on the very last day copy can be accepted. Chet. 45. Michigan Division — General Chairman Hindmarch and Local Chairman Garrott met General Superin- tendent Hamilton, Superintendent Ekin of this division and Superintendent Geddls, Peoria Division, Saturday, Jan. 17th, at In- dianapolis, and settled most all the griev- ances of this and the Peoria Division. Operator Settles, Rockville station, alter- nating with Bro. W. T. Rose, will be paid time and one-half for the time he worked second trick on Sunday. Bro. W. W. Wirt, first Rockville Cabin, will go to Reann u agent. *il]J The case of Bro. Shelter, Operator Colum- bia City, still pending, will probably be ad- justed In the very near future. Bro. Canode, who bumped Bro. Anderson on first South Bend, will have to go on extra board as his seniority will date from the time he last entered the service of the Mich- igan Division, which was April 21, 1919. Bro. J. M. Hamilton, who bumped out of “FN” by request of Division Operator Dale, will have to return to “FN." Sorry to see Bro. Hamilton have to give up first at Elite, but we must live up to the agreement and Bro. Logan will have to return to first Elite, where he should have stayed, and Sister Schneider may return to third New Market if she desires, but can stay at North Man- chester as she bid this job in. Bro. Sensenbaugh, agent Sand Creek, will receive a nice bunch of back pay ; he has several hours overtime and several calls. Sister Kirk relieved Sister Schneider on third Bowers, who bid in second North Man- chester. 1 Bro. Collins bid in Rosedale agency, relieved by Bro. G. A. Helvey at Roann agency. Bro. Barnett, on first Bowers, relieved by Bro. Scott on second Manchester. Sister Lacy is back on second and Sister Cooke on third “BO" afjer two weeks visit- ing in Columbus, Ohio, latter with home folks. Bro. Wiilhelm goes to Labanon second and Bro. Flook to first Hoover. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 225 Bra Farris is back on first Fayette and Bra Holton back home again on Butler third, Sister Knowles to second Judson. Brothers and sisters, send your notes to Bra Q. Q. Garrott so he can get them to St. Louis for every ttsue of the Journal before the 25th of the month, and don’t forget to mail Bra Skinner your dues. Now is the time to keep things going. We have every- thing working nicely on this division now, and we can keep it that way by the support of all the members. Cert. 65. Bra Crook, Denver second, has returned from his twenty days' honeymoon. Bro. Prank Rody, third there, was relieved by Bro. Geo. Helvey several days. Operations for consolidation of stations at South Whitley "PH” with N. Y. C. & St L., have commenced. This will cause some of the boys to hunt new homes. Telegraph offices closed during the strike have been reopened and bid in. Make three copies of your grievances, mail one to your superior officer, one to the local chairman and keep one yourself. Do not try to settle them verbally. Cert. 6636. & B. <& /., Northern Division— Statement general fund : On hand Dec. 31, 1918 $ 4.76 Received during 1919 24.96 Total 129.70 Expenditures as follows : Printing $ 3.60 Lunch at Cedar Springs 2.68 Postage 3.23 Flowers and fruit 11.63 Balance cash on hand Dec. 31, 1919.. 8.76 Total $29.70 A good many brothers did not contribute to the flower fund started last year, but in * small way we have tried to send flowers when parties have been sick or In cases of <taath, and I feel like asking that this fund he kept alive this coming year. Instead of 15 cents a month, the previous figure set, let us try 50 cents a year per member, pay- able to Bro. Lowell, North Yard, address 511 North Park street, Cadillac, Mich. This may be paid in one or two installments. Thanking the brothers for contributions in past and hope this will be remembered by each brother this coming year. Yours fra- ternally, W. P. Hoffman, L. C. The flrst union store, on the G. R. & L was opened at Cadillac, Saturday, Jan. 11th, with President F. J. Esalatine, G. R. & I. engineer, and Treasurer F. L. Brlckner, city ticket agent; Secretary W. P. Hoffman, operator Cadillac and local chairman North- ern Division. The movement was started by Bra Estatine and includes factory workers of the city. Prospects are good. There are two more of these stores in Michigan, one at Durand and one at Owosso. Let’s all get in now and have more. This is one way to reduce the high cost of living, which makes our little 52 cents an hour look like 80 cents in an old-time bafroom. When the new seniority lists come the nons will have a star in front of their names. Looks like a bad winter ahead of them. Bro. Tom Belding of Clarion is In Petos- key Hospital in very bad shape. He is being relieved by Bro. Cross, relief agent. Bro. Chat Hill, Pellston, relieved a week by Sister Hedberg. Bro. McCuilom is back at Paris. He was In Big Rapids Hospital when it burned and narrowly escaped death. Bro. C. C. Meade, "KS” Tower, relieved a week by Morford, from the P. M., allowed $2.00 a day for expenses, which all should haVe who work extra, as they spend all they make for board and room. Bro. Dolly Dolberg is on third Boyne Falls. No one bid in Jennings and Mr. Wright was sent there. The relief agent will have to go over and make the reports. Bro. Mart Lemaux Is now manager for Swift & Co., and Bro. Geo. Anderson with the W. U. at Ridgeville. The latter was a recent Petoskey visitor. Some kind brother south of Cadillac send me a few notes. F. A. G., Cert 4199. St. Louis Division, East End — Members and their families of roads en- tering Terre Haute held an instructive and enjoyable meeting Saturday night January 10th, at the Modern American hall, Naylor- Cox. Bldg. General Chairman Hindmarch made an inspiring talk relative the Improve- ments of working conditions while under Government control, and the closer co-oper- ation between employes and their supervis- ing officials in the future. The O. R. T., as one of the fourteen railroad organizations affiliated with the American Federation of Labor, he said, has been instrumental in se- curing better conditions for Its membership, due to the energetic efforts of both our grand and local officers, being .ninety-nine per cent organized in dues paying members and is a strong factor in the labor field. Following Bro. Hindmarch’s talk, Bro. Ed. Whalen, chairman of the Big Four and Chairman Powell of the C. T. H. & S. E., made interesting talks, which were greatly appreciated. After the business meeting all enjoyed refreshments of a substantial kind, thanks to our general chairmen, who fur- nished the eats. In cases where employes have been as- signed to work less than eight hours on week day assignments and compensated therefor at call rate, I beg to advise that you are entitled to eight hours’ pay for each week Digitized by VjOOQle

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226 The Railroad Telegrapher. uay assignment regardless of time worked less than eight hours. The following case was allowed and same decision will apply to all similar cases : On June 14th, 1919, Operator R. M. Mc- Knight was called to protect a shift at Greencastle telegraph office. After reporting for duty at that office as instructed, he was released through no fault of his own before performing any duties and paid for two hours’ work at time and one-half time, call rate only. Greencastle is a telegraph office of two or more tricks, eight consecutive hours, exclusive of meal hour, exclusive of Sundays and seven holidays, and it was or- dered that he be paid for eight hours' work in accordance with Interpretation No. 4 to Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27. If you see any violations advise your local chairman promptly. Read all supplements carefully and know for yourself whether or not you are getting all that is coming to you, as well as whether or not you are asking for something which you are not entitled to. Bros. Vaughn, first Greencastle; Benefiel, first Reelsville, and Clark, third Almeda, were off recently a few days. Grover Boots, third Limedale, the only regularly employed telegrapher on this end, refuses to answer any letters giving his rea- son for being & non. Remember our motto, brothers, “No card, no favors” Bros. Harrold and Siddons, Greencastle, were relieved a few days recently by Bro. C. N. Williams, and Bro. Farris, Hamrick, by Bro. George Feld. Bro. George Mank, who has put in many years of hard work In “SO” relay, has broken the combination there by going to first East Yards. Bro. Tom Pressnell, agent Harmony, re- lieved by Bro. Abbitt frOm Pierron several days recently on account of the death of his father-in-law at Seelyville. Bro. O. T. Germain, first “D8,” relieved a few days by Bro. Joe Reynolds from “SO” relay. Ten Ways to Kill Tour Organization : 1. Don’t attend any of the meetings. 2. If you do, be sure to get there late. 3. Don’t think of going unless the weather is suitable. 4. If you attend at all, find fault with all the work of the officers and other members. 6. Never accept an office, or offer your as- sistance, as it is easier to criticise than to do things. 6. Get sore if you are not appointed on a committee, but if you are, don’t attend the committee meetings. 7. If asked by your chairman to give your opinion regarding some important matter tell him you have nothing to say ; then after the meeting tell everyone how things ought to be done. 8. Do nothing more than is absolutely nec- essary, but when the officers and other mem- bers roll up their sleeves and willingly ana unselfishly use their ability to help matters along, howl that the organization is run by a clique. 9. Hold back your dues as long as possi- ble, or don't pay them at all. 10. Don’t bother about new members, let George do it Your chairman is working to get pay for your vacation for 1919 which you did not get. Supplement reads, effective January 1st, 1918, vacations are abolished, vacations earned and not received will be paid for. Every brother is requested to pay his dues promptly. Senator Harry S. New of Indiana has de- clared himself fully In favor of the anti- strlke clause of the Cummins railroad bill. E. H. Henderson, Cert. 2888. St. Louis Division, West End — Remit Bro. Skinner $12.00 for a 1920 annual card, if you have not already done so. It will be one of the best investments you ever made, paying the highest rate of interest. This division and a number of others were not represented In January Issue of The Telegrapher. On account of the “Xmas” holiday the items did not reach St. Louis office in time. Let’s all try and get our write-ups in a little earlier in the future. They are great factors for disseminating news that is permissable outside the divi- sion room and tends to help keep up the interest. Brtx Hindmarch, our chairman, and our general committee of Lines West met Gen- eral Superintendent Hamilton in his office at Indianapolis, Saturday, Jan. 17th, and took up some grievances the local committee had failed to dispose of. Five were settled in the interest of the agents on St Louis Division satisfactory to the committee. Some on the Michigan and Peoria divisions were also settled. The few agents knocking the O. R. T. and trying to nurse a dual organization into existence please take note. If you have not already done so, or if you have, it will refresh your memory to turn to pages 33 and 34 January Teleg- rapher and read the check the Railroad Ad- ministration took on the Pennsylvania Lines East of Pittsburgh and Erie and note whom the employes In this department wish to represent them. This should and will for all time to come dispose of this long disputed point Sisters and brothers, attend the Terre Haute meetings held . the second Saturday night in each month, on third floor. Fourth and Wabash avenue. It will do you Rood to get out get acquainted and find out what is going on. It is not possible, and would got be permissable or good policy to place all the doings of the division in this publi- cation, and it won’t hurt you to at least lose Digitized by Google

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The Bailboad Telegrapher. 227 one night’s sleep. The West End brothers cannot understand why the Middle Division members do not take advantage of being close to Terre Haute and attend these meet- ings. With a few exceptions these sisters and brothers are absent while the fellows on the West End travel from 68 to 148 miles in order to be present. Is it possible the brothers on the West End have the Interest of the Otter more at heart than those on the Middle Division? We hope not, and that failure of the latter to attend can be attrib- uted to something else. The attendance of the membership in and About Terre Haute and the East End is splendid, and we wish to make special mention of the sisters, who, through their untiring efforts and also the brothers around Terre Haute, are making these meetings a success. Now let's all turn out and make the next the largest pet Do not fail to mail your dues for the en- suing term to Bro. W. M. Skinner, room 71- 72 Gunther Bldg., Baltimore, Md., and your Insurance to Bro. C. B. Rawlins, Missouri State Life Bldg., St. Louis, Mo., who encloses you a slip showing the amount due thereon, also a self-addressed envelope. Do not fail to do this, sister, brother, as a 100 per cent organization is what “brings back the bacon.” Cert. 2410. Nickel Plate R. R., Div. 18. Fort Wayne Division — Copies of our new schedule recently dis- tributed to all concerned is a very neat docu- ment and shows considerable improvement over the last issue. Anyone missed should make a request upon the chief dispatcher for a copy at once. The committee succeeded in getting the question pay for vacations earned during the year 1918 settled, and Decision Docket T-44S came from Board No. 3 JOst in time for the company to get this back time out to the meft on December 24th. A very nice Christinas present. We have a few nons on the line who, sorry to say, came in for thet/» share on this and would like to have a picture of their conscience, if that be possible, just to see whether it falsed them an eyelash when they stuck this down their geans, where the O. k T. card should have been, but was not. Bro. G. A. Bigelow, third Arcadia, off a few days sick, was relieved by Bro. V. D. Clark, later relieved for same cause by Bro. Frock, who previously relieved Bro. Wiseley, third Fostoria, several nights, also sick, and Bro. C. J. Ericson, Leipsic Junction, was re- lieved a few days by Bro. Harris, West Lelp- cte, same cause. Hue to the extreme shortage of male oper- ators, Miss Rohrbaugh, the only lady phoner on the division without & card, was sent to second Hers, and Bro. P. D. Hall had to be Borrowed from the Chicago division for Maple Grove a few days. Don Fruchle went to new Millers second, and Sisters Killworth and Hostetler to the two tricks added to Townwood, owing to the rush of business. Bro. F. W. Johnson has resumed again on Payne third and Bro. F. F. Cowley on First Mortimer, vice Bro. Lowe, back to second, vice Bro. Clark to Helena, visiting home folks. It Is now Bros. W. a Dray, assistant agent Mortimer, and P. J. Wells, third Colby. Cert. 87. New York Central (Lines West), Div. 19. Toledo Division- Local Chairman Glenn Smith called & meeting recently at Kendallville, attended by Bros. G. W. Artley, H. W. Sharp, M. J. Miles, Earl Kasner, Clyde and Leonard Farfes, Karl Richmond, Ross W&nn&m&ker and A. fC. Boomershine. Bro. Smith told us what the committee had done and what more it proposed to do. In order to help the com- mittee accomplish good results we must keep in good standing and see that the few de- linquents line up. Those who promised to attend this meeting and failed to do so missed some information worth knowing. Try and get out to the next one. The Toledo dispatcher’s office “KY” Is all lined up except one man. Keep after him until he gets an up-to-date and make the office solid. Bro. Rohm relieved a few days during the holidays by Bro. Leonard Farfes from Kendallville, who later went to third Swan- ton during the Illness of the regular man there. Bro. Boomershine took Xmas dinner with friends In Warsaw. Ind., and Bro. B. A. Cherry, off two days, had his with his folks at Salvana. The former and Bro. Sharp also spent a day in Elkhart recently. Sister Agnes Army Way was relieved a few days by Bro. McCarty. Brothers and sisters, let us start the new year right by getting our up-to-date cards promptly and seeing that the few nons with and near us are lined up, so we can close 1920 with a solid division. “Boomer,” Cert. 1773. Toledo Division West — In addition to the regular meeting held at Crow Hall Tuesday night, January 20th, we had a card party which was enjoyed by the many who attended. Bros. Fisher and Mc- Bride and their wives of the Pennsylvania Lines and Bros. Gangwer and White of this division won the prizes for good playing. Come out, boys, to these meetings. We need you and they will do you good. Very sorry Chairman Smith was absent on account of sickness. Bro. Enshueler of the Cleveland Division took his place. Digitized by Google

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228 The Railroad Telegrapher. President Walker of the Golden Rule Club took our pictures with his high power ma- chine. Don't know how we will all look after the flash. Keep after the nons, boys, and don’t let them rest until they are all lined up. Bro. Horace Cooper, second Oakdale Tower, after the storm Dec. 1st trying to patch an electric wire, was instantly killed by high voltage wire. We regret to learn the sad news and also that he had neglected to return his M. B. D. application sent him for a correction, thus preventing his bene- ficiary from getting the Insurance as he had intended. This should be a lesson to us to pay our dues and M. B. D. assessments promptly, also to return all papers at once to headquarters, giving any information re- quested. Bro. H. D. White and Assistant General Chairman Smith visited Air Line Junction Dec. 16th, looking over the new positions in- cluded in our new schedule, where some of the boys have considerable back pay coming, vfrhich they were much surprised to And. The new schedule will soon be out and each member will be furnishd a copy. Study it and if you don't get all that is coming to you take it up. If you don’t get results refer it to your chairman. Don’t leave it to him to And and work out your grievances for you. Bro. Banner, on three months’ leave, gone to the Santa Fe in New Mexico, relieved in ”XD” Toledo by Bro. Bloomfield, “SC” Chi- cago. Bro. Weitz is now a full fleged wire chief in “XD.” Bro. E. J. Hoglen, third wire chief “XD” office, spent Xmas with his people at Monroe. Bro. Ray Hudson, our Golden Rule CJub secretary, has promised a new brand ^ of smokes at next meeting. Be sure and come, boys. Third Tuesday in each month. Send me a few notes. H, D. W., Cert. 1618, “BR” Toledo. Alliance Division — The vacation pay arrived at last. A long time in coming, but “better late than never.” Should the railroads go back to private ownership March 1 we will need our Order as never before to represent us, so be sure that your dues are paid up. Mr. Montooth, a new man, went to third Piney Fork. Brothers near there see that he gets a card. Railroading was difficult on this division the past two weeks, due to the severe win- ter weather. Bro. Barnett took his third Masonic de- gree in Palmyra Saturday night recently. Positions cut off during coal strike have been replaced. Div. Con. C. I. & W. R. R., Div. 21. Indianapolis Division — Bro. Snodgrass. Rushville first, on sick list, relieved by Heeb from the “PH,” and Bro. McDonald, first State street, while visit- ing relatives in Akron, Ohio, relieved by Ryan, a new man. Bro. Llpps has resigned, going with West- ern Union at Connersvllle, relieved on third Moorefleld by Paul Stephenson, and he at Cottage Grove Tower second by Bro. Brougher, who previously relieved Bro. Leonard, agent College Corner, a few days. Cert. 37. Mo., Kans. & Texas Ry., Div. 22. Parsons District — Having failed to get our items* for Decem- ber Issue to St. Louis in time I consolidated them with those for January, but the 25th coming on Christmas day, they were delayed In the mail, making them too late again, and I am giving you the news, although some- what old. in this write-up. Let me have your notes in time, brothers, so we can fig- ure on these possible delays and get In a few days ahead of the 25th, the last day they can be used without delaying the pub- lication. Our G. S. T., Bro. Brown, of Coffey vllle, is highly delighted at the way the boys have been paying up their dues. We now have over 800 members, the best record Division 22 has ever had. General Chairman Thomp- son and Bro. Brown are working hard to keep the good work going. We still have a few nons on this district always ready to accept the benefits the other boys get for them. Remember, brothers, that “No cards no favors ” works wonders some- times, and don’t fail to apply it at every opportunity. Also don't fail to send me some notes as it is impossible for me to keep up with all of the news on the division, although I try my best to do so. * Now that Bro. Rawlins has been obliged owing to the scarcity of white paper to dis- continue printing “assignments,” in memo- riam8,” “cards of thanks’ and “vacations," it makes it harder than ever to keep up this column unless you send me all the news you have for compilation before the 20th of the month. It is the duty of all members to see that we have a good write-up each month and show that we are still alive and not a bunch of dead ones. Lots of business on the Sedalia Division now. During the coal strike the Katy handled lots of company coal trains, mak- ing business good, and the oil business was also good owing to the shortage of coal. The Katy is turning a number of coal burning engines into oil burners and send- ing them to Texas. Bro. Bates is now at Moran ; Bro. C. E. Hawkins bid in Appletin City first ; Bro. Digitized by tjOOQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 229 Gregg, second Scheell City; Bro. Cupl, third Beagle ; Cobb, South Mound third, and Hickey, flint Glen Park. Let's all get busy now and each one try to secure a member. Of course there's not enough none left for that in one sense, but if we all get after them and two or three of us consolidate our effortB on a particular one you will be more likely to land him and win have no trouble dividing among your- selves the credit for accomplishing such a good result A. W. Hals, L. C., 2504 Chess Ave., Parsons, Kan. "GO" Relay, Parsons, Kan.— Only two nons left in this office and of course we all know who they are. Both promise to come in soon, the same old song. Sister Kirk is on 90 days’ leave. Bra Hodge is quite an oil magnate now and some of his holdings are coming in fine. "Lucky boy.” Lots of overtime here now. A. W. K. BmithvUle District , North — Bra R Brau, third Holland, spent several days recently with friends and relatives at Smithville, Brookshire and vicinity. There seems to be some special attraction at Brookshira Bra Tunstall, Eddy nights, has been hav- ing considerable trouble lately with “bolls” on the back of his neck and on his back. We hope he will soon be able to return to duty again. Bro. E. L. Schultz recently spent several days at New Ulm attending his brother’s wedding. We are glad to see Paul Mathis back from the service of "Uncle Sam” at New Braunfels second, again. Boys at Temple and Waco, let’s have some news from you. Smttftrtffo District , South — Bra Levelle relieved Bro. McGee, first MWP" West Point, who relieved Bro. Jolly, the agent at "HN” West Point, a few days. Bro. R Brown, first Sealy, spent a de- lightful visit with friends and relatives in San Antonio during the holidays, relieved by Davis from Sealy freight office. Bro. Dickerson, ”RA” LaG range, bid in second "ST” Sealy. Bra J. H. Bruner, from some point in Oklahoma, relieved in Smithville relay dur- ing the holidays. Frank Haggard, Cert. 429. Shreveport District— Not many changes, boys all working pretty dose, some tried to get off during the holidays, but no extra men in sight Bra Deprang relieved Mr. Barta at Kar- nack, whose father was very low. Bra Culberson, at Winnsboro, was off a few days on his honeymoon. Bro. Williams, at Cason, wanted off for the same purpose, but as there was no one to relieve him he will probably deoide to have a quiet wedding at home. Boys, every time you bid on a job send a copy of your bid to Bro. Bridges so he can keep a check on the proper man get- ting it The national committee is how before the Wage Board, trying to get us a raise of about 10 cents per hour, also vacation with pay, etc. This will be mighty nice, but It will take our full support to carry these things through, so let's all push. Also all you boys send in some notes to your local chairman. Crrt. 377. C., M. A, Sti P. Ry., Div. 23. P. D. C. A Min. Pt. Divisions— On account of the yard limit being ex- tended at Janesville and placed under the Mineral Point Division jurisdiction. Rock River Tower has been added to our list of positions and comes to us with three good O. R. T. men in charge. Vacancies at this tower will be bulletined and P. D. C. & Min- eral Point Division men entitled to bid on them. As soon as you receive this Issue of Tks Telegrapher advise me if help is needed at your station, especially If forced to work In excess of assigned hours to keep the work up. This information I should have by March 1st, so please get It to me as soon as possible. On appeal of the North Prairie case, For- mer Agent Bro. Roberts was given the agency there and was checked in Jan. 19th. It Is now Bro. Holmes at Milton. East End solid with exception of the three posi- tions at Monona Lake Tower. Third Eagle opened for bids after being closed two years. Application now on file for new second Palmyra. Case pending. Agent W. W. Clay at Dunbarton resigned and moved to Michigan, position bid In by Bro. RIpp, extra telegrapher from Cross Plains. We now have one brother and one non on the Schullsburg branch. Think Ted Howe will soon be with us. On account of the application for adjust- ment of proper rates of pay at Bamum and Bell Centfrt\ latter was closed as an agency and a custodian put In charge at present agent’s salary. Bamum was raised to 48 cents per hour with proper overtime allow- ances. The schedule committee Is trying to get all rates adjusted to conform to General Order No. 27. Expect to resume meetings at Madison and Janesville as soon as the weather permits taking a chance on trains being on time. Several are asking when meetings will be held. Will notify all as soon as It is con- sistent. Digitized by VjOOQle

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230 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bpo. Johnson, former extra telegrapher, who went to war early in 1918, is now at his home near Bloomer, Wis., recovering from serious wounds which he suffered in France. Expects to be with us this sum- mer if possible. There have been several serious cases of violation of the Federal hours of service law in this district, although Supt. Mac- donald has advised that you must not work beyond your assigned hours. When you are required to work outside of your regular hours, make a note of it on your monthly report to Chief Valentine. Several agents make this report blank. This should not be done. If all would show the actual hours you are required to work to keep up the accounts and handle other business of the station, the help question would be a matter easily handled. As long as you cover it up there will be no chance for any adjust- ments regarding help. The resolution presented and passed on at the last Madison meeting regarding inspec- tors and traveling auditors assisting in handling station tariffs and correspondence has been duly referred to Mr. Dudley for his consideration. We all hope it will re- ceive his proper consideration and be acted on favorably. O. A. M. Iowa and Dakota Division — Sister O. J. Reisinger took third Fort Atkinson, put on again, and P. F. Millard, recently returned from naval service, went to second Emmetsburg. Bro. E. W. Chase has returned to Everly agency, relieving Bro. J. E. Johnson, who resumes on Charles City third. The extra dispatchers put on some time ago at Mitchell have now been taken off. Bro. E. F. Hofmaster, Nora Springs, has been appointed on the safety first committee for the East and Middle divisions, and Bro. Q. O. Stevens, Canton, for the West Division. Anything of this nature should be referred to them. Bro. A. N. Anderson, agent Clear Lake, visiting in Des Moines, is being relieved by Bro. Whitney. The superintendent's office will soon be- gin figuring the new rates effective under Interpretation No. 8, so we can expect back pay before long. We should see* that the none take a chunk of theirs and line up. They would not have had it coming if the O. R. T. had not secured it for them, and should help to stand the expense by getting an up-to-date. C*rt. 8784. H. A D. Division— Bro. R. S. Buske, who spent 19 months over in France in the railway department went to Ortonville third and later relieved Bro. F. T. Koelfgren, third Wegdahl, when he relieved R. C. Silker at Minnesota Falls, the latter going? to Java Junction. Brother* keep after Silker, H. C. Torbenson, Granite Falls, and any other nons near you, and give them no rest until they line up. Re- member that “No card, no favors?' properly applied brings good results. Silker has been riding along at our expense for four yean and it is high time for him to make good his promises. We want to make this the "big- gest” division with the largest per .cent up- to-date. “Non" is a contraction of “Nonen- tity,'' which means “nothingness," “nobody." Bro. James Sherin showed the right spirit by asking for blanks when he relieved Bro. Ed. McGough on Montevideo side table, gone into the automobile business there. * It is now Bros. R. L. Rothe and Gerhard Streukesn, latter relieving Bro. E. E. Wolfe, switching in Avery yards. Bro. E. T. Mc- Cormick relieved Bro. Ayers at Aberdeen Yard, who is now dispatching West H. ft D. Sister Mary Brennan, relieved on Cologne third by Jorrison, from Olivia, went to Brampton. S. D., agency. Bro. Gilhoi, agent Wegdahl, relieved by Operator Vinge, visited his parents at Bird Island during the holidays; Bra Vic Put- zier, Minnesota Falls, also relieved at that time, and Bro. Beck, while visiting his folks at Buffalo Lake, were relieved by Operator Landreau. Bro. Swanberg, Bird Island first, spent a week in the Twin Cities re- cently. Bro. Walt Ustruck, lineman, spent his holidays with his parents in Milwaukee, and Bro. "Red” Kolb, Montevideo Yard, spent his with his mother at New Ulm, Minn., re- lieved by Bro. E. L. Phelps, who was called to Hutchin8in New Year’s day to relieve Bro. Kiesler, taken suddenly ill. Bro. Martin Ogren, third Appleton, re- ported sick, relieved by L. P. Olsen, who sprained his wrist while cranking his Ford. Bro. John Aamot relieved Bro. VanderhooC agent Milan, while the latter enjoyed Sun- day at home with his family. In the December number I reported Bra and Sister H. P. Jarvis resigned, which was a mistake. Consult personal "birth” column for particulars. Our friend and brother L. F. Boock, first trick train dispatcher Montevideo, spent a few weeks recently on his plantation in Flor- ida. We hope he had a successful crop. J. J. Brown, Montevideo, recently returned from Siberia and is expected to be on his old trick dispatching on third shift He is looking and claims to be feeling well. The boys will be glad to hear his familiar voice again. I have secured over 116 members to the Plumb Plan League in a little over a month. If you will all get interested, as everyone should, you could do likewise and better. You have the same opportunity to help the good cause of labor. Anyone who doesn't Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 231 understand the principle of the great labor movement that is on all over this country, write or wire me and I will be glad to fur- nish you with literature that will give you all the information necessary. Let’s hear from you, brothers, and don’t forget to drop me some news items. O. J. Klob, Cert. 1390. Columbia Division — Bro. H. R. Carrell, Cert 1565, and Sister Lea Carrell, Cert 3378, of Corfu, Wash., wish to thank the brothers and friends for the liberal assistance rendered them recently when their property was destroyed by fire. IntM 6 Q't Northern Ry., Div. 26. Ft. Worth Division — Our journal should be a source of delight to all members now, more than ever before, inasmuch as It is a congressional record, a bureau of information on labor statistics and a clearing house for the thoughts of our members in the United States and Canada, among whom are able writers and their arti* cles witness exhaustive study on all sub- jects in which we are interested financially, socially and politically. If you have a good idea for discussion Just present It and the boys will do the rest. Venus IS now a continuous office, Bro. WMliams, agent, on first; a student on sec- ond, and Bro. Butler on third. Operators seem as scarce now as when we were at war. Bro. Reulet has tried un- successfully to secure relief for thirty days. Bro. Mathews, called to Navasota temporar- ily on sick relief, relieved on Italy third by Student Anderton, there being no available operator. I x\\ If you haven’t paid special assessments and current dues, do so at once. Bro. Berry, Just returned from an extended trip to Washington in our behalf, has accomplished more perhaps than anyone else we could have sent, and special assessments are im- perative to meet his expenses. When a man works for us he is entitled to his wages and we are eager to pay him, only unintentional- ly we are sometimes negligent Our division is now solid with the excep- tion of one "now." Let us see that he does his duty in order to make our membership 100 per cent again. Bro. MeCauley, first Mart is on the sick list relieved by Emergency Telegrapher Bari, manager of the light plant, who helps out at Mart when no other telegrapher is available. He will be an up-to-date member shortly. Let me again urge everyone to keep up- to-date at all times with their dues, special assessments and mutual . benefit fees. Once you get the habit it’s dead easy, and by so 'lotag it saves bur local chairman much correspondence. E. C. Rogers, Cert. 352. Wabash Railroad, Div. 26. Decatur Division, Sixth District — On account of sickness there has been an entire new force at Chicago Ridge Tower, Bros. Furry, Baines and Beltram doing the stunt, and Bro. E. L. Ricketts on third Campus owing to Bro. Miller being sick. Bro. Kurtz, first 47th street, off sick and trick closed a few days. Bro. E. L. Million was on first and second Brisbane several days relieving Sister Ayers and Bro. Dennis, and Bro. Pifere, third Ashbum, was relieved by Bro. Moore, extra man, a week. Bro. Bill Ricketts of Campus and Bro. Barber of Saunemin went to Chicago be- tween trains recently to take in a good show. Bro. Nelson, agent Chicago Ridge, off dur- ing the holidays, was relieved by Bro. Poff from Gibson City; Bro. McElroy, Saunemin, by Bro. Moore, and Bro. Veech and Bro. Pigett, first and second Bement, by Bro. Furry, a few days, who later, with Bro. Bain, relieved Miss Grace, and Bro. E. Q. Lanier, agent and first Lodge, respectively, several days owing to the accidental death of Bro. Lanier’s son, who was Miss Grace’s brother George, when his father’s automobile w*as struck by a west bound I. T. S. at a very dangerous road crossing near DIghton. George was killed instantly and others in the car seriously injured. Bro. Lanier and Miss Grace have the sincere sympathy of the membership in their bereavement Bro. Stephens, from Landers, spent New Year's at Fairbury with his brother, who is in very poor health. Cert. 272. Decatur Div., Ninth and Thirteenth Dists. — Bro. Dooley to Brooklyn third, vice Bro. Merfleld to vacancy in "GM” St Louis, caused by the death of Bro. Horan at Mober- ly Hospital. Bro. Byrns is also working In “GM.” Bro. Gleason from “GM” is work- ing In the O. R. T. headquarters, seventh floor Missouri State Life building, St. Louis. Signal Supervisor T. G. Hyatt, Vandeven- ter avenue, St. Louis, was recently married. Bro. Metro, second Granite City, was off a few days recently, and Bro. Norvell, third there, visited home folks at Litchfield re- cently. Local Chairman Veech, first Bement, was off several days recently, also Bro. More, agent Sidney, latter relieved by Bro. Holli- well. Brothers, send me any news you have or call me ion the wire not later than the 20th so that I will be able to get it in the next issue of the journal. With your assist- ance we can have a good write-up every month. Cert. 740. Peru Division — Bro. C. R. Harris, second West Lebanon ; Bro. Wallick, agent New Waverly, and Bro. Digitized by tjOOQle

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232 The Railroad Telegrapher. L. O. Bowers, second Huntington, have all been In the hospital recently. The Star City O. R. T. Club held a dance and card party at Lafayette in December and the large hall there was unable to ac- commodate all who were there. Bros. Coch- rane and Clinger of Peru were among those present Tou boys who fail to attend meet- ings are missing something. Bro. C. C. Chase, first Tilton, relieved a week by Bro. Askie, visiting relatives. Some good brother volunteer to act as correspondent preferably one on the Bast , End. I will be glad to help him all I can, although my time is about all taken up. "Lid..” Cert. 845. Moberly Division — i I wish to thank all the brothers and others who so generously contributed to the fund raised for the immediate assistance of the widow of our deceased brother and friend, Hugh P. Horan. A total of $108.25 was collected and turned over to Mrs. Horan, who desires, through the medium of the journal, to tender her heartfelt thanks to all of you for this financial aid, the many expressions of sympathy, and the floral of- ferings presented during her husband's ill- ness and death. C. W. Layton, Cert. 204. 8t Louis-3outhwestern Ry., Dlv. 27. Brothers, we now have a strong organiza- tion and it behooves us to keep it up to a high standard. Each member should take a personal interest in his Order, keep paid up-to-date and contribute to such funds as may be necessary in our welfare work. I wish to appeal to each individual member to pay his dues at once if he has not at- tended to this important matter, and pay them for twelve months if possible. Thus save your general secretary and treasurer a lot of work, and I am sure he will thank you very much for doing this. Any organization is what the members make it and to be successful requires loy- alty and financial support You know you have no investment of any kind that pays half the dividend the O. R. T. does in re- turn it gives you for your dues. Being a member in good standing is not all that is required. You must also be will- ing to take hold and support your officers in preaching the gospel of organisation to the non-members. We only have a few and by the united help of all it will be easy. Encourage them to join by telling them the merits of our Order. Persistent efforts in this respect will bring results. Call their attention to the fact that a man’s conscience is his governor of right or wrong, and when his conscience tells him that he is receiving benefits gained by the efforts of the mem- bers of the O. R. T., it is time for him to enroll and help pay for them. It is a good feeling to be able to meet your fellow work- ers and extend the hand of good fellowship and know that you are doing your bit There is no excuse now for not becoming a member as the Government’s policy of up- holding the rights of Americans to be mem- bers of any organization of their trade does away with any fear of losing their positions for joining the O. R. T. In fact the Gov- ernment has endorsed in every way that it could collective bargaining, which should be sufficient evidence to any man. I would be glad if some wide awake member on each division on this road would appoint himself division correspondent and send in each month a good write-up from his division. I wish to thank Bro. Dick Allen, "CO” Tyler, for his fine write-up last month. Keep it up old man. Each member on this road should sit down right now and write his Congressman at Washington and tell him you are against the Cummins Bill and that you and other local citizens are for the Plumb Plan. Do not overlook this important matter. P. D. Neislar, General Chairman. Members Division 27 — Dues notices for term January 1st to June 80th, 1920, were mailed out to all mem- bers, in accordance with address as per my record. The amount necessary to remit is $7.50 per term of six months for members holding scheduled positions, or $15.00 for an- nual card, and $4.00 per term for mem- bers holding unscheduled positions, or those entirely out of the service. At this writing several have not yet remitted for the cur- rent term and I desire to call your special attention to the fact that time for payment expires February 29th, after which date such members will be numbered among the delinquents, and in case you fail to pay your M. B. D. assessments before that date it will be necessary for you to sign the regular Insurance reinstatement blank and file the same with the grand secretary and treas- urer. This matter is only brought to your notice for your own bexfeflt. I desire to thank the sisters hnd brothers of Division 27 for their hearty co-operation and assistance during the past year, thereby making it possible to Increase our member- ship to near the 400 mark. We have also been successful in reducing the delinquent list to a minimum, and I feel confident that ere the close of 1920 we will be very near the 100 per cent mark, for the active work of the membership the past year shows that the officers will receive more help from them during the present year than during 1919, though It was a big year and the work done by all our leaders will long be remembered. But there is more yet to be done, which will no doubt be brought to light during 1920. Digitized by Google

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 283 Let's all be boosters for Division 27, its offl- ised to take yours truly out for a spin next cere and the O. R. T. spring. C. B. Welch, Local Chairman. Jonesboro North Notea — It has been some time since this division was represented in The Telegrapher, as I have been overrun with the duties of grand secretary and treasurer and have not had time to gather up any items. I desire to have a write-up every month, and am going to again request each brother and sister to note the happenings over the division, send- ing me the changes, etc., at the several sta- tions not later than the 20th in order for me to mall same to St Louis to reach there not later than the 25th. I have appointed dif- ferent brothers to act as our correspondents, but it seems they do not care to serve, pos- sibly because the members do not give them the assistance required in order for a corre- spondent to have success. I expect to make another appointment soon, whose name and address will be published in next month’s items, and I trust that each of you will give him all the assistance needed to have a good write-up every month. I wish to thank Bros. H. E. Chism of Fornfelt and A. L. Webb of Pa/agould for their loyal and never-failing support as as- sistant local chairmen #given me during the past year. These brothers are ever ready and willing to perform any duty when called upon. With their co-operation during 1920 we are planning on doing great things on this district, and urgently solicit the co- operation of every member, which we believe will be given and our plans accomplished in the fullness thereof. We are glad to advise that Bro. Chism ha* recovered from a serious operation at the hospital and is back at Fomfelt, having been relieved by Sister Chrisman. Bros. Morgan and Bennett, St Francis, attended a banquet at Paragould, Jan. 16th, latter relieved by Sister M. Morgan. Bro. Webb of Paragould was relieved few days by Bro. Moore, who later relieved Bro. Keating at Ardeola several days. Bro. McLerkin relieved by Bro. T. F. Cald- well 30 days at Horners ville, and Bro. C. E. Stroup, Mesler nights, some time by Bro. Summers. We are pleased to have Bro. G. W. Chris- man, who has been in Undle Sam’s service for the past two years, back with us. He resumed at Avert Dec. 1st 1919, vice Bro. Tucker to extra board. Bro. Chrisman kept up-to-date during his absence, as did several others of our members. Bo. L. E. Olds has gone to the Pine Bluff Division, regular. We are sorry to lose him, but can assure the brothers of that division that they will And him first class to every way. No more walking for Bro. Bennet as he now owns a fine, big Maxwell and has prom- Jonefihoro , 8outh — Brothers, the Northern or Illmo Division is 100 pef cent solid, while we have numer- ous nons on this division. We must get them into the Order. I have recently been reinstated and come back to you as hot as ever, willing to make any kind of sacrifice to put us over the top. It is a great pleas- ure to get back with the old bunch once more, more like home. We can have one of the best divisions in the territory if we will only put our shoulders to the wheel and not sit with our hands folded waiting for the local chairmen to do it all. Our officers must have some kind of backing be- fore they can do anything. We have Just as much to say about our organization as any ofllcer in it and it is up to us to make It or lose it Let's get after these nons and not let up until they are up-to-date. We must have a strong treasury, so let's all pull together for the $18.00 per year rate and get a salaried chairman so he can look after our interests to a much better advantage. I am ready at any time to do my best to get more members and have better mem- bers. Sister Nelson Fordice was married Nov. 27th to Brakeman Lee Detrick. Bra T. R. Grady has been reinstated and bid in third Camden. Bro. Ralph Mixon is up-to-date again. Some hard luck caused him to go delinquent a while. Business is good. Let’s all give the best service possible and show the administra- tion that organized labor is the best. * Remember our motto, “No card, no favors ” and keep after the “non" until we go over the top and win, just like we did in the world war. I sincerely hope someone will be ap- pointed correspondent on this end and give us a write-up each month. We are as big as anyone else and should be represented. Cert. 459. Seaboard Air Line Ry., Div. 28. Virginia Division — We held meetings at Raleigh, Nov. 80th and Dec. 31st; Portsmouth, Dec. 7 th, and Norlina, Jan. 11th, much interest being manifested. We were pleased to have General Chair- man Bro. W. L. Tidwell with us at the Dec. 21st and Jan. 11th meetings, this being the first opportunity the members had to meet him. He made a very favorable im- pression and I hope to hold these meetings regularly, as much good is accomplished. We reserved 60 seats for the afternoon to hear Billy Sunday preach at Portsmouth, Digitized by VjOOQle

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284 Tije Kailkoad Telegravhek. Jan, 25th, after holding: our meeting there that morning. Stand firmly behind your Order. It has been weighed in the balance and not found wanting; it has been recognized by all other labor organizations, the railroads and the United States Government ; it has stood the test and is admitted by all to be a success beyond a shadow of a doubt. Hang your hat on the O. R. T.. and call it "home, sweet home.” I am pleased to say that there is more in- terest being manifested by the members, they are paying their dues more promptly and we are receiving new members, which is very encouraging. I also feel very grateful for the way some of the members are co- operating with me. Go after the few that are left and remember our motto, “No card, no favors.” Let us stand together that we may be prepared for the reconstruction days. The O. R. T. is our only hope. The “floral contribution” follows : Receipts. Portsmouth to Norlina $19.00 Raleigh to Norlina 10.75 Richmond to Norlina 15.26 Lewiston to Boykins 2.50 Total $47.50 Disbursements. Bro. Rodwell, wreath $15.00 Hall rent Portsmouth, Dec. 7th 2.00 — 21!! Balance $30.60 I hope that all will enforce the chief dispatcher’s circular No. 16 in reference to keeping others than the operator off the ”phone.” It has gotten so bad on this divi- sion that at times it is almost impossible for the operator to do his work. The other fellow should attend to his own duties and let you take care of your own business. Operators on another road near us are very careful about allowing any and everybody to use the “phone.” It is to your Interest to see that the instructions in regard to this is enforced. When you bid on a vacancy be sure and mail me a copy. When you fail to do so I am not in a position to protect you as well as when I have one. If you find that you do not care to make a change withdraw your bid before the time is up, for should you be the successful bidder and fail to accept, you will have to go on the extra list It is now time for the seniority list to be mailed to you. If your name does not ap- pear thereon notify me promptly. Let us work together to make 1920 the banner year of the O. R. T. on “The Sea- board” and especially on this division. Walter A. Jotner, L. C., Cert 1750. Alabama Division — ' Regret not getting in write-up for Jan- uary. Sister Ramsey bid in second Americus ; Bro. W. B. Moody, clerk-operator Lyons; Bro. W. D. Bedgood, first; Bro. J. H. Par- ker, second, and Bro. J. R. Tyler, W. U. relay Job, latter being a new position opened to handle W. U. for Collins and do relay work for Reldsville, Mendes, GlennviUe and a few other places located on Collins and Ludowlci Railroad. Helena freight agency on bulletin, Bro. Tidwell, general chairman, retaining right to return there any time he desires to re- linquish his present position of general chairman for system. We gave Bro. Tidwell this right when new position was offered him, but the position Was only bulletined for 90 days. The general chairmen of other orders retain their seniority and have the privilege of Returning to their former posi- tions. Bro. Fanning, local chairman, recently got out a circular letter to all offices in regard to payment of dues, urging all to remit promptly. This division has been behind on dils matter and we hope our brothers will respond earlier in the future. This letter also stated that ous president was looking after our interests in Washington, the out- come of which could not be told, however, that if we expected to better our conditions it would have to be done through the O. R T., therefore, each member must stay up-to- date, thus giving his support to the Order. There is nothing which gives our officers more confidence and encouragement than the solid backing of the membership. Let's all line up and stay lined up. There is not one among us who does not want to better his condition in order to be more able to sup- port himself and family. We cannot ex- pect to better our conditions, or even hold what we have at present, unless we support the organization through which we have re- ceived what we have, and will receive every- thing else we get We still have a few among us who are content to take all the Order gets for them, doing nothing to support it or pay anything into it, but always wanting what someone , else works and pays for. If a man hasn’t a card, he is getting something that you have worked for, and is not contributing his part. Get after him and line him up. Show him where he is wrong and get his application. The local chairman recently received ap- plications from L. T. Sease, “SA” Savannah; H. H. Williams, extra (been working at Americus and Richland) ; B. D. Bedgood, first Collins, and H. G. Blackshear, Leslie We are glad indeed to call these men brothers and hope they will always stay op- to-date and be loyal members. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 235 I will appreciate some news from different puts of the division for our write-up. It Is hard for one man to keep up with all the items, and it will greatly help if some brother will lend Just a small bit of assist- ance- H. L. Carter, Cert 1421. Bait Carolina Division — An interesting meeting held at Terminal Hotel, Andrews, S. C., Dec. 21st was very well attended. Among those present were Local Chairman Calhoun an£ Bros. Slattery, CfDonalia. T. C. Johnson, Fairey,* Hearn and Bryant Some drastic rules weer adopted in regard to the nons who refuse for any reason to give us their applications. Anyone who drops out fails to pay up and then Sets in any trouble will be in the same posi- tion as the nons. Therefore, brothers, I would advise you all to pay your dues promptly and keep In good standing at all times; also see that the man working with you has a card. We have about 10 new men over here. Let's see if we cannot get every one of them in. I have talked with several who promised to Join pay day. Some have had several pay days and have not Joined and some are old heads who have the best iobs on this division. Two new men came over here recently, one paid up the first pay day, but the other has made no effort, al- though he hem been regularly assigned. Nons as of December 10th, 1919, were: Lloyd, at Rains; Blount, Lobeco; Ramsey, DHlon; McPherson, “CH” Charleston; Hill, Johnsonville ; Jenerette. McColl ; agent, Tlmmonsville, and several others I am un- able to name at present. Use strictly “No card, no favors” If any of the above have Paid up since December I will gladly correct the mistake. It is now Bro. J. F. Nicholson, extra. Get busy, boys, and let’s make the E. C. 100 per cent I have been off several days and cannot fcive much of write-up this month, but will try and do better in future. With best wishes to all the brothers for a prosperous year. J. R. Richardson, A. L. C., Cert 1713. Southern Carolina Division — We regret that we did not have a write-up in January's issue of the Journal, and will try and have all information regularly in future. 8lster Grave Terrell is now on second Riceboro; Bro. Urquhart on second Town- sand, and Local Chairman Liles on second Woodbine. Clyo, Riceboro, Townsend and Woodbine, Ga-» and Garnett, S. C., are to be cut off April 1st Bro. Bell, Thalmann, is off sick again. Bro. Stephenson bid in clerk-operator Kingsland. Bro. Kavanaugh withdrew his resignation on Norway agency. Now is the time to line up all the “nons.” 2f JOE haven’t a list of them call on Bro. Liles at Woodbine for it, and application blanks. Remit your dues promptly to Bro. F. O. Cummings, G. a & T.. 15 Dinwiddle street, Portsmouth Va., and your mutual benefit assessments to Bro. C. B. Rawlins, general secretary and treasurer, St Louis, Mo. Do not allow the last of February to come and find you without an up-to-date. f Let me have your notes not later than the 20th so 1 can send them in before the 25th and get them in the Intended issue. Remember our slogan, “No card, no favors” Earl Whitlock, Cert 1462. N. Y., N. H. & H. R. R. Dlv. 29. Boston Division — Massachusetts House bill 432 provides for 24 consecutive hours’ rest weekly and is compulsory. We should endeavor to have this bill passed. Write or wire at once your Representative or Senator, State House, Bos- ton, Mass, to work and vote for this bill. Ckrt. 1189. Local Chairman “Jacl^” Francis is herding nons, particularly around the Braintree’s, there being four there out of thirteen posi- tions. Hope to soon have it 100 per cent. Advise the spare men who claim tf> have cards that we will be obliged to publish their names unless they can show them hereafter when so requested. Bro. Taylor, South Braintree, returned from a recent hunting trip with nothing that looked like “game” except a bear skin. Remit your dues promptly to Bro. T. O. Tiger, Box 596, New Haven, Conn. Brothers Interested in organizing an O. R. T. Social Club covering all roads operat- ing out of Boston, send in your ideas and pledge your support Dues, say 60 cents to $1.00 a month. Address Box 2116, Boston. Also mail your notes for publication in the Journal there. If you hear students practicing on the dis- patcher’s or other busy wires and they don’t get off when requested, report It to the proper official. In a case of this kind re- cently the student was finally ordered off by the dispatcher. The practice then stopped. If this student is a good worthy fellow the operator teaching him should obtain the usual permission from the Order and the company. Live up to your obligations, brother, and handle that friend of yours the right way and there can be no kick from anyone. Supervisor Beede of the Western Union Boston office has commended Bros. Ewell and Taylor, South Braintree, for excellent service rendered. Digitized by Google

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236 The Railroad Telegrapher. The Boston Globe, under date of Jan. 14th, stated that Director General Hines had signed a national agreement covering rules and wortyng conditions with the Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Sta- tion Employes, retroactive to Jan. 1st, con- tinuing in force during Federal control. Bro. Walker, third Braintree Tower, was injured at Chicago while on his way to the Coast and forced to return home. Our sym- pathy is extended to him and wishes for a speedy recovery. Bro. Sam Gardner, third South Braintree Junction Tower, is on leave of absence. Get after the two none covering these positions. Bro. Curren, south Boylston street, Is re- covering from a broken limb. Cbrt. 1555. Providence Division Notes — Owing to a severe cold Chief Telegrapher Haddock was not present at our first meet- ing under the new system division on Jan- uary 7th, but reports getting along (J. K. again. Local Chairman Brady made an ad- mirable presiding officer. The attendance was small, but there was considerable doing. More of the members should have been there to greet Vice-President Ross and our general chairman, as it was the latter’s first official visit We 'were all greatly disap- pointed that so few were out Bros. Ross and Handy gave Interesting and helpful talks upon matters which should interest us all. A new grievance, that of moving “F* office at the Union Station to a new location, is now In the hands of General Chairman Handy and Local Chairman Brady. Please take notice, brothers, that until you are otherwise advised meetings will con- vene as heretofore and at the same place. A call was sent out announcing that the election of officers would take place at our February meeting. Fourteen new members have been added to our Benefit Association, which is in ex- cellent condition and more of our members should avail themselves of the benefits de- rived from it by those who already belong. Send in your news items and let us have a good write-up. Cbrt. 712. c New London Division — The first meeting of New London Divi- sion, held in Knights of Columbus Hall, New London, Dec. 27th, was not very largely at tended, but very enthusiastic. The several brothers present were full of “pep0 and sev- eral important questions were discussed. We adjourned at 10 :30 p. m. Previous to the meeting we had a game of “hunting the key ” which was terminated when one of the brothers produced a "bot- tle Jimmy and corkscrew," with which he manipulated the lock on the door and we gained access to the hall, showing that these Instruments are still of some service, even if their original occupation has been dis- continued. Fellow members, it has long been desired to have New London as a meeting point Now that the opportunity is ours we must attend meetings In order to get this divi- sion on a " broad-soled non-slip, O’SuUivan- heeled” working basis, and show the other divisions that we can do business. Many first and third trick men who might have attended ^rere absent, showing an ap- parent lock of interest at the beginning. The need of the Order is going to assert itself perhaps sooner than many of us real- ize, and everyone should keep posted right up to the minute on the things which per- tain to our organization, and make our local chairman’s efforts worth while. Sister Addie May Allen is on an extended leave; Bra (Old Timer) B. J. McCrohan, dispatcher’s office. New London, is being re- lieved by Bro. Griffin ; Chief Dispatcher Platt, by C. R. Weeks, and Bro. L. V. Sny- der is on 30 days’ leave. Have a suspician there will be a Mrs. Snyder when he returns. Third Gales Ferry abolished. Sister Mar- garet E. Coose going to third Danielson. Bro. William E. Phillips has resigned and returned to his home In Michigan, expecting to enter the service of the Pere Marquette. His many friends here wish him success. Dispatcher Bro. Charles R. Weeks, sick several days, was relieved by Bro. Arthur A Degenais, and Bro. Joe W. Cook, Shannock, R. I., owing to sickness in his family, was relieved by Bro. Louis R. Davis. Bro. P. J. Chamberlain, third Waterford, was ill sev- eral days, also Bro. T. O. McLaughlin, sec- ond Wood River Junction, the latter taken very sick while on the Job. Have you paid your dues for the present term? And received your new card? They are beauties. Wood — wood-alcohol — wooden-overcoat — 1 woodn’t. The zero weather here makes us envy our Southern brothers where bathing suits are in order, and their favorite drink (soft) is resonant with the merry tinkle of the ice within the glass. "Aw, gee, shut up, what’s the use of talking." Bro. T. A. Manning, Fort Yard Tower, has given up his rights and gone back on the spare board. He relieved Bro. M. A Mignault several days owing to a death in the family, later relieving Bra Ford, Hill’s Grove, a few days. Some of you brothers look around, dig up something for the next issue, and send it in. E. H. Scrivxn, 141 Park Ave., New London, Conn. C. N. E. R. R. Division- On Dec. 9th the New Haven committee mailed to President Manlon at Washington Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 237 a joint submission on the yoper way to ap- ply Interpretation 4, Question 3 to the long hour* employes of the road. On Dec. 17th at 11 p. m. the Railway Board of Adjustment No. 3 gave this deci- sion : “To arrive at the proper hourly rate upon which to apply the 15 cents per hour granted by Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27 multiply by 52 the regular weekly rate in effect as of January 1( 1918, prior to the application of General Order No. 27; divided by 306 to procure the daily rate; and divided the daily rate by eight to secure the basic hourly rate. This increase runs from .005 to .058 and means about $85,000. I took this matter up with the manage- ment for correction and as of January 13th received a letter stating the matter was given consideration. The foregoing is sent to This Telegrapher so all members can see that all is being done that can be, and I hope to have the matter adjusted shortly. If any of the brothers wish to know anything about the new sched- ule, signed by the management Oct. 31, write me. I have a signed copy and will give you the desired information. It is be- ing held up at New Haven to get the new rates in. Write and give me your correct rate as of January 1st, 1918, and I will ad- vise your correct rate under Supplement No. II as interpreted by Railway Board of Ad- justment No. 3, Decision Docket T-467. The company is cutting from 12 to 16- inch ice at Ice Pond and sending it to all of the ice houses on this and the New Haven llnea Bra Clark at “PO" is kept busy these cold mornings finding the breaks and keeping the wires in service. T. C. N. E. has woke up. Boys, send in some real live stuff and we will try and keep everyone posted on what is doing. We need a division correspondent and then all help him to make good. It is now Bros. Fraleigh, Poughkeepsie; Stephens at Millerton, the oldest agent on this system, and Geo. Hill, who, with Bros. Shay and Habrosky, returned from “over there," and have all been put in good stand- ing by our secretary and treasurer. It’s also Bra Hoke Knickerbocker, agent Salt Point, making this end solid. There are two good freight agents I know would join at once if some brother near by will get after them. Bra C. J. Hoystradt has been appointed agent at Cokertown, and Bra Shay bid in third liaybrook. We heard bells ringing recently at Stissing Junction and they were n6t Eng. bells. Better look up the young lady there and get her application and cash before she starts housekeeping. Bro. Anson, who has been in the hospital so long, came back to work January 1st, but is again off sick. He has had hard luck and we hope he will soon be with us again. Bra Gustofson, busy around the East End, recently sent in six new members. Bro. Wiltsie was a recent Poughkeepsie visitor. If you have not mailed a money order for your new card there’s no time like the present Gro. S. House, G. C. D. L. & W. R. R., Dlv. 80. The long sought schedule agreement is, at last an accomplished fact Since the agreement went to the printers we have secifred the following positions, which can be noted in your books: Car distributor at Binghamton, N. Y., at 66% cents per hour; car distributor at Scranton, at 66% cents per hour; clerk-tele- phonet* in chief dispatcher’s office, days, 59% cents per hour; nights, 58% cents per hour, both at Scranton. At Ithaca, clerk-operator at 64% cents per hour and operator at 54% cents per hour. This station was not handled by this rail- road during Government control, but has Just been restored. At Hackettstown, N. J., clerk-baggageman has been reclassified as clerk-operator at 48 cents per hour. The case of the telegraphers at 90 West street. New York, N. Y., in which we claimed pay for these employes for days on which they were forced to suspend, other than Sunday and the seven legal holidays specified in Interpretation No. 8, has been decided by Board Na 8, as follows: “The employes in question shall be paid eight hours’ pay each calendar day, exclu- sive of Sundays, and seven legal holidays specified in Interpretation No. 8 to Supple- ment No. 18 to General Order No. 27, un- less such employes laid off at their own re- quest" Submissions made in other cases were held up on account of the board being in recess for the holidays, but it started sit- ting again on Jan. 7 and we should have decisions before you read this. I have heard some criticism of our class of employes that they were not keeping their towers or offices clean. Brothers, as long as we are required to do this we should not leave any room for complaint We may have some of this work taken off by agreement later, but as long as it is a part of our work we should see that it Is dona When you are transferring with your relief, do not assume that any train orders which may be on hand are of no importance, but pay strict attention to everything trans- ferred to you and if there are any train or- ders or messages still undelivered be sure that you deliver them, or in case you are unable to do so always notify the dispatcher Digitized by Google

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238 The Railroad Telegrapher. of your failure to do ao. It may keep you from getting- behind the bars. Looking out from behind them Is not nearly as pleasant as looking In from outside. It Is gratifying to note that the members are paying up for the term ending June 80 and we are getting recruits all along the line. Some of the none are beginning to feel that their place is with the boys who have secured the first schedule agreement ever written on the D. L. & W. R. R. If we stick together and every member considers it his business to see that the other fellow is also a member we will be able to improve on the present agreement, but if we do not stick we can be very sure tha$ we will not improve it and the chances are that we will not even hold what we have already secured. I am not willing to believe that there are any considerable number of our class of employes on this railroad who are so tight that they are willing to let George do it all. At the last meeting at Hoboken we had the pleasure of meetng two of our lady members and I want to say that every mem- ber should feel proud of these pretty, pleas- ant ladies. They are an inspiration to the other members and I am sure that the boys would turn out better if they knew we were to be favored by such a visit They are better members than a lot of the men, and do not keep the local chairman running after them for their dues. • The committee is Working hard to keep the boys lined up and as It is impossible for them to cover the road as thoroughly as they would like to, every member who cherishes a schedule and wishes to retain it should do his share to get the others to pay up and get the none to join, as he knows they are getting the benefit of Improved wages and working conditions and contribute their share toward the good work. The insurance feature alone will more than compensate them for their membership and money spent. If they will figure how long it would take them to pay in as much as their beneficiaries would receive, in the event of their death, they show that they are pretty poor sticks if they still refuse to Join with their fellow workers in helping them to help you. M. M. Farley, General Chairman. Buffalo Division — The Joint meeting at Elmira, December 4th, was very satisfactory, although the Lackawanna members did not turn out as anticipated. We had 65 at the morning meet- ing and 25 at the evening meeting. General Chairman Hesser of the Erie and Local Chairmen Read and Hill gave out some very good information. The none on this division are the two Sottoras at Mt. Morris and two without names. One* signs “FB” at “RG“ Elmira freight house. Don’t give them any rest until they sign uf. Don’t leave it for the local chairman to do; he is busier than we are. Bro. W. E. Hanwell and wife spent a few days recently in Elmira with their people. CSRT. 68. Buffalo Division Notes — Bro. Ray Seeley, third Elmira Yard, is on leave, expecting to go into business tor himself. We all wish him success. Recently, during the snow storms, the phones went up at various times and save the operators a chance to telegraph again. From various comments by the dispatchers some of the boys are really getting rusty and should take a little more Interest lo this part of their work. ' Of course when the phones are working there is not much chance to telegraph. But most of the time “Morris” is rolling over them from various offices and the brothers could practice a lit- tle on the wires. Then in case of phone trouble the officials would* have no cause to comment on your ability as Morse men. Bro. Orris Smith, first Elmira Yard, re- cently completed 88 years of service for the D. L. ft W. and was given a neat little write-up in the Elmira papers. A record to be proud of and we hope to have ”0” with us for a long time yet. At the last convention our delegates went on record with a resolution against the train crews using the telephone unless in case of an emergency. The conductors passed the same resolution, but it is being broken every day by a great number of the train crews. When one of them stops at your office and insists on using the phone to talk with the dispatcher or chief, tell him plainly Just what you think of the situation and request him to not violate the under- standing between the various brotherhoods. In nine cases out of every ten these phone conversations are entirely unnecessary and a stop should be put to them. The practice of the dispatchers calling the conductor and telling him to call for orders at phone booths could in a large measure be abolished by giving the conductor orders, at some tele- graph office where there is an operator on duty. Whenever the company can use this arrangement to abolish an operator’s posi- tion they will do so. On the Utica branch there is a stretch of 54 miles of single track road without an operator because the crews can stop at several points to tell the dis- patcher where they are and In that way he figures on his meets. So, brothers, discourage this practice at every opportunity. I was called away suddenly last month and had no time to finish the write-up. The few notes sent in arrived In St. Louis on# day too late and appear as a lead this month Digitized by Google

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Thb Railroad Telegrapher. 239 by Bro. Cert 68. Let me have your Items in plenty of time, so I can Arrange and set them to the editor before the 25th. Cert. 883. Syracuse and Utica Divisions — We hope Bro. Howard Miller will be able to land Mr. Flaherty at Baldwinsville and the Syracuse yard and passenger station brothers to handle Mr. Eustace, both old- timers in the service. Someone near T. B. Orace call his attention to his increased salary. He is back on Supplement 13 again. Hare him sign up. Win. Neff at Chenango Forks Tower should be reminded of his nomeroua promises and the difference in the contents of his pay envelope when he en- listed and since he returned from the serv- ice. The increase in one check would pay his dues for a year. J. F. Roberts, East Winfield; T. F. Mellon, West Winfield, and Wm. Hoffman, Richfield Springs, are also In the “now" class yet, and we must line them up. The sooner “No card, no favors” is ap- plied to these men the quicker they will come to their senses. Bra. Ja a. Gallagher, formerly agent at Richfield Springs, has taken Norwich freight agency, which the company claims is in the supervisory class. Such agents are not al- lowed to do any routine office work and we hope Bro. Gallagher will be given sufficient help to keep within the scope of a super- visory position. Several brothers have re- fused this agency because Superintendent Cteek would not agree to do that Bra. W. G. Ryan was appointed to ( suc- ceed Bro. Gallagher, but being unable to secure suitable living accommodations for his wife and two little ones, desires to re- turn to first Marathon if unassigned at the expiration of the 10 days' bidding in ac- cordance with Article (6) C of our agree- ment Bro. Grover Howe, second Norwich, is working as extra dispatcher at Binghamton. Cert. 157. Morris and Essex Division — The January monthly meeting held at Hoboken, N. J., was, in spite of the inclem- ent weather which prevailed, very well at- tended. A very enthusiastic delegation turned out in. the morning, also a great many appeared at the evening session. All were well satisfied with the satisfactory manner In which business is progressing in general. The brothers and sisters on this division are all genuine optimists, everyone a ‘'booster'* and united we stand to accom- plish our desires. General Chairman Farley and Local Chairman Anderson were "full of pep." Many important issues were ably discussed and various cases analyzed and settled. We made a "flying start" all together for 1920 in great shape and expect a "grand stand finish." We have a fine organization. Let us con- tinue the good work. With a substantial fund in bank to our credit we can march forward, all co-operating together, and ac- complish wonders. Bra Jos. M. Murray, West End, laid up ten days with the grip, was relieved by Bro. C. W. Hemingway. Bro. M. M. Patterson recently worked third "Z” Tower, Grove street, several nights. Cert. 155. Missouri Pacific R. R., Div. 31. Illinois Division — Attention , brothers on Illinois Division l Resurrection Day ! Hope these few items will not seriously affect any of you. It has been seven years to date to the hour, month and day since there was any news published from this part of the Mis- souri Pacific; not dead, just slumbering. * Sister Sackett, first South Dupo, on 60 days’ leave, Bro. Leiling moving up from second, relieved by Layne. Bra Finn Is back on third looking rather pale after his recent illness, and Brq. Blakley, third Prairie du Rocher, visiting home folks, re- lieved by Bro. Rhodes, Jr. The operators on Valmeyer and Prairie du Rocher second refused to handle the ex- press company business without compensa- tion, but our superintendent decided they would have to do it. We should take this up with our officials and try to make some kind of a settlement. Bro. Nicks, second Valmeyer, on sick list recently, relieved by Bro. Senteny, and Agent Herrin was down with the "flu" awhile, Relief Agent Horn relieving. Several brothers who were called from t their regular assigned positions to do extra work failed to put in for their expense money. Live up to the contract, boys, and see that everyone else does the same. We have a few trainmen who go into blind sidings for passenger trains and send flag- men ahead to break a block to save delay. This should be called to the attention of the chairman of the trainmen and conductors and have them put a stop to it. Bro. L. R. Rhodes goes to Murphysboro third, succeeded by Bro. Crain on second Gorham. , "A Nrra Owl." Missouri Division — We have not had a write-up In the Journal for the past six months. Brothers on the main line should send some news to our local chairman before the time for the write- up to go in every month. If you know noth- ing on yourself tell something about your brother at the next station. Digitized by Google

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240 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. R. L. Cox bid in Diehlstadt, vice Bra Bagley, gone on extra. Bro. Cox will no doubt be at home now that he is in the country again. Bro. Homan, Marquand, called away on account of the death of his mother in Ohio, relieved by Miss Edna Lewis. We have finally secured the long promised raise. Bro. Jas. Austin, third Delta, was recently married. Congratulations to the newlyweds for a long and happy life. Bro. Ira Hocking, Delta second, has re turned from a vacation. Bro. C. C. Courtway, first Charleston, spent Christmas week visiting at Cape Girardeau, Allenville and White Spur, E. L. Hall relieving. Do not forget nor let anyone else around you forget that the time for these dues to go in is almost np, and always bear in mind, "JVo card, no favors ." Cbrt. 1533. JopUn Division — Bro. C. H. Wals, first Carthage, was off during the holidays patching up fences, fix- ing chicken coops, etc., around the farm he recently bought, two miles south of Carthage, Bro. Corwin relieving. Bra B. C. Rullman from the U. P. extra Nevada relay, bid in Wilbur agency. Ore nights closed, reopened by Bro. J. L. Braden. Bro. G. R. Roberts has gone on the extra board, succeeded on Mound City agency by R. L. Rader, former agent, who has been in a bank there recently. Bro. W. H. Sweet, third Harrisonville, re- lieved a few days by Bro. Clyde Rouse from the Katy, who later relieved Bro. Murty on Cornell third, relieved Bro. Honey on second, relieving Bro. Dill on first, who took his wife to Hot Springs for treatment and fell a vic- tim himself to a troublesome malady. New members: Sister Helen Scott, Alba; Bros. Claude Plain, Butler agent ; J. L. Braden, third Archie, and J. R. Tolliver, agent Pleasanton. Bro. M. L. Brown, Madison agency, is steadily improving in St Louis hospital, and will soon be back on the Job, Bro. Nunn re- lieving. General Secretary and Treasurer Morgan indicates in his January 7th report that a fine dues paying showing is being made, a goodly number remitting for annual cards. This not only takes worry off the member, but cuts down the work in Bro. Morgan's office. An Increase with back pay to date back to October 1, 1918, has been granted by the management, which will take thirty days to figure out and put it into a new wage schedule. Now you brothers who have not paid up remit $8.50 to Bro. N. S. Morgan at 818 Star Building, St Louis, Mo., for a semi- annual, or $17.00 for an annual, which will pay up to December 31, 1920, and don't overlook your insurance Remit that to Bro. C. B. Rawlins grand secretary and treas- urer, at Missouri State Life Building, St Louis, Mo., at the same rate you have been paying for the last 80 years. That is one of the many good things we can sag for our insurance department All other fra- ternal companies have found It necessary to raise their rates to bring it to an adequate basis. We acknowledge the assistance of Bra Honey in this write-up. Wish some brothers on the North End woidd send me a few lines. C. V. Rows, Cert 87, L. C. Memphis Division — We are over the top 100 per cent, only one man left without an up-to-date card, and he has been delinquent a year. I have done everything but strong arm him. If any of you brothers feel real frisky you might take a trip to "HG" and try the third trick man there. We are glad to welcome the following brothers, who show the right spirit, mostly new men, who lined up first pay day : J. M. Larkin, S. P. Price, Wynne; H. D. Cleaver, E. E. Jamison. Marianna; G. O. Huggins, Marvell ; J. R. Riggs, G. M. Gregory, Jelks ; P. W. Whitworth, L. L. LaFluer, Lexa ; L. L. Hardegret. Bro. Woodson, who bid back second Lexi,’ succeeded by Bra P. W. Whitworth on the agency there, later went to first, Bro. Lopo- ser, from third, moving to second. Bro. Mc- Cardel, third, resigned, returned East, re- lieved by Bro. LaFluer. Horn, from the Western Union, at Ma- rianna a few days, took the "flu," later re- turned to work, now at Elaine, will soon line up. Brothers, if you want a write-up each month send me some notes. L. R. Woodson, Cert. 2461. Dexa. Ark. Central Division — Bro. Hartwell, formerly agent at Taiala, bid In Rex second. Bro. Jacobs, second Russellville, was oft several days recently. Bro. Sargeant, third Ozark, spent the holi- days with the home folks at Chester, Arlc. Bro. Knight, second Greenwood Junctkm, relieved a few days by Bro. G. F. Kelsey of Division No. 1 recently with the grip Shawnee, Okla. Daniel Brooks, another new man, is relieving Pitts on third Greenwood Junction. Sister Essie Taylor, Cowane, has back to second London while her husbasx), "Tub," is still working third KnoxvtUn. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 241 Bro. Brown, who bid in Knoxville agency, is still unable to work on account of poor health. Bro. D. Love, second Ozark, Recently lost his wife after a short attack of pneumonia, leaving him with two small children. He has the sympathy of the entire division in his bereavement. Bra A. B. Whitzell, Muldrow third, closed on account of miners* strike, is now with a local cotton and general merchandise firm at Salllsaw. We all wish him success. Bro. D. W. Glover, who has been visiting his father, is now on first Nowata, vice W., H. Coad in Fort Smith hospital. Bro. J. G. Hartsfield on third Nowata. Bra Neal, first Sallisaw, spent the holi- days with his father In Illinois. Bro. Allen, third Salllsaw, is relieved at “BN” during the Xmas rush. During the miners* strike all the passen- ger trains on this division were cut off ex- cept one each way a day, closing nearly all the third tricks for about a week. No one did any bumping, taking it for granted that it would not last long, and took the days off as a vacation. The writer made a trip to Louisiana deer and bear hunting, but the biggest game bagged was a squirrel. Several of the boys have suggested that we start a flower and social fund. A very small assessment each month would provide a sufficient amount for use when necessary. This will likely be discussed at the next meeting and action taken accordingly. J. M. Whitino. Omaha Division — Our new schedule shows an average of 57% cents per hour, for which we are very appreciative. We are very sorry to learn that Sister Hequenberg, agent Nearman, is still in St. Joseph hospital. Kansas City, nursing a broken arm, which she received about Dec. 10th. We hope to see her make a speedy recovery and hear her back on the Job in the near future. She wishes me to advise the brothers and sisters on the East End of her appreciation of the floral Christmas present, which certainly came at an oppor- tune time. Dispatcher Lane Is back after €0 days' suffering from a badly bruised thumb, which developed into blood poison and re- sulted In amputation. Dave remarks, “There are griefs as well as pleasures in an automobile.” Bister Skeggs relieved Bro. Jackson, sec- ond Nearman, while acting as agent there. Bra Irwin Wolcott was relieved a few days by Bro. Williams. Bra Moore, from Montana, is relieving Bra Thomas, , third Leavenworth, relieving Bra Joice on first while undergoing another operation. We hope he will enjoy better health as a result of this second operation and soon be back on the job again. Bro. Davis, third Cochrane, was off a few days owing to the death of his grandmother, Bros. Mar(in and Williams doubling, no ex- tra operators available. Bro. Howarth has resumed on first Union Depot, Atchison, after being off two weeks with the “flu.” Brothers on the North Bind, kindly give Bro. Dyer some items each month. Keep after the few nons until they line up. Re- member that Mr. Rood, third Shannon, is the only non on the East End. Give him no rest until he gets an up-to-date. Cist. 1877. Relay Division — Local Chairman Morgan advises Atchison, Kansas, the rates of pay for this office have been raised to equal other relay offices of the same class, which gives us a rate of : Manager, 75 cents; N. C. and L. N. C., 68 cents, and operators 65 cents, effective Oc- tober. 1918. Although this office handles an average amount of business with other second class relay offices, we have been underrated from 4 to 10 cents an hour, consequently we real- ize our committee has remembered us and wish to tell of our appreciation of same, also for the Underwood typewriters the com- pany furnished as a Christmas present. They are certainly dandy little machines and makes the work easier. One man, who has evidently used a Remington six, tries to raise the carriage to see what he Is writing. No doubt the boys will be surprised to see an article under this heading, as all of us seem to have been too timid or neglectful to put our thoughts in print Would like to see this column keep up from now on, not letting a month go by that we are not rep- resented, so the brothers of other railroads will know that we are on the map. No doubt they have often wondered if the Mis- souri Pacific has a relay division. Manager Overton, under the new wage scale, will receive about $400 back pay and has promised to use a small portion of it to buy a card. I consider this promise as certain as if he had already remitted. Ckrt. 1985. Colorado Division — With deep regret and sorrow we report the death of Bro. A. Barnett, operator at Bads, Colo., Jan. 22nd, following a short illness. His loss is keenly felt by the mem- bers of our division, who extend their heart- felt and fraternal sympathy to the bereaved relatives and friends. A floral offering was sent as a memento of affectionate regard from the O. R. T. members of this division. Digitized by Google

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242 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Barnett came to the Missouri Pacific in June, 1911, and has always been a worthy brother. He leaves a host of friends among the employes of the Colorado Division, who mourn his loss. ( * Boys, let's keep the ball rolling and don't quit the good work until we have this divi- sion 100 per cent. Becent line up of delinquents made Hor- ace station solid. Bro. Herr bid in third Utica, making it solid. Bro. Sanders is wondering if all of the “ops" from Indiana are red headed. He has two of them now. Bro. Greer bid in Brownell nights and Barry from Haskell, Sheridan Lake agency. Bros. Hunt and Bastion are also at the lat- ter point. Bro. Ende, former clerk at Ord- way, has been succeeded as agent at Pen- dennis by Extra Disdon, and he at Brandon by Smith from Marlenthal. Bro. W. D. Lewis is back at Scott City after spending several weeks in California. Bro. Barnett, Eads, is down with the “flu," reiieved by Bro. Bollinger. Thanks to Local Chairman Jones and Bros Michael and Hunt for help this time. Boys, get your notes to me not later than the 13th. Let’s use a little space in the journal every month. C. M. Herr. Cert 2745, Utica, Kan. Baltimore & Ohio R. R.f Div. 33. Indiana Division — The Indiana Division is now a member of the Workingmen’s Political Information Bu- reau. Sufficient remittance has been re- ceived to permit the forwarding of $10.00 dues to the bureau, and on January 20th, $3.10 had been raised toward the printing of station lists. We probably lead the Order in this move toward the bureau, and if any other division has beat us we should like to hear the news. The Louisville branch came forward with a pledge of 36 per cent above that asked for, and the West End, 11 per cent. The Bast End and the Cincinnati Terminals have not been completed In the canvass. The West End ranks first, however, in the largest sin- gle subscription, which was 70 cents from the local chairman. Everything is running as smooth as a “nigger" in a grave yard. Those who have pledged themselves and have not already remitted please do so im- mediately ao that printing of the station lists can be proceeded with. It is our aim to have these lists printed in the best form permissible. Perhaps by next month I can give a complete record of receipts and dis- bursements. The Workingmen's Political Information Bureau is Non-Partisan. Its plan is to en- lighten the membership of legitimate unions on political questions concerning the free- dom and happiness of the worker. It Ib managed by a man who is beyond doubt & true American, and a true union man, at heart, so that there can be no question of his loyalty to either cause. The need for such a bureau to co-operate, with labor has been growing greater with such rapidity that we find ourselves almost swamped with involuntary servitude as the result of our ignorance In voting at elections just past Perhaps the bureau will be little more in its first year than the O. B. T. was. when it sauntered forth in 1886 on its rough road of troubles and success. But it is cer- tain that the working people of America will no more shun this new assistant than they have shunned the principle of ifnionism in Industry. It is up to us to make it what it Is going to be. “The Indiana" has stepped forward. Who comes next? Drv. Cor. Qhicago Division — Bro. Magill called to Bloomvllle, O., re- cently, due to sickness of his small child. We are sorry to learn of the illness of the wlfp of Bro. Hutton, Holgate, and hope for a speedy recovery. Bro. Slyder, second “KN." relieved few days by Bro. Baldwin while helping out In "DS" Garrett. We are all glad to hear Bro. Zimmerman back on the wire after a three months' leave. Evidently day labor did not appeal to him. Bro. Clements relieved several nights by B. W. Miller, a new man, who has promised to have an up-to-date for this year. Bro. Hart has resigned and taken up other duties. Bro. Hayes is trying out a new bug. Bro. Baldwin relieved Bro. Foley while he attended the safety meeting at Gkrrett You ' are all asked to kindly mail any suggestions or report any unsafe practices which you ob- serve to Bro. Foley, Fostoria, O., who has been appointed by the superintendent to rep- resent our department at the safety meet- ings for the ensuing year. This is a noble work and each one should do his share towards making It a success, especially to prevent personal injury. Deshler days reopened by Bro. Cook, Bro. Elder on first at “BS." Remember our slogan, “No card, no favors ” to the few old fogies who are al- ways making excuses for not having an up-to-date. Try and have them use some of that back pay, get in good standing, and be protected in the futurev This is especial- ly imperative in order to keep what we have accomplished the past few years. Boys, send me some notes bo this divi- sion can have a write-up every month. We have not had one for a long time. J. H. Glick, “WN “ Cert 2061- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 243 Cleveland Division— We received the correct rate on January roll and will soon have the back pay, so I have not been “feeding you bunk” to get you to pay up and keep Cleveland at the top If possible, as was told me by a certain member. Time has brought out the truth, and yqu know now that the adjustment has been made and that your officers do know what they are talking about. We regret very much the illness of Bro. Rogers of New Philadelphia, one of our oldest and true blue members and hope for bis speedy recovery. Bros. Gray and Clark stole a march on us and got married. Neither one could stand the price of the “smokes,” so we presume that is the reason they did not say anything. Bro. McBride has gone to Florida for sev- eral months. I would like to go some place, but If you will all do what you can to place os at the head of System Division 33 I will stick and take the bitter with the sweet. It is now Bros. Phillips, Robinette and Huffman, agents. Only one delinquent in service. Let’s all pay dues and stand first. Our worthy general secretary and treasurer, Bro. Shaffer, stood first last term with not a delinquent or a non member on his divi- sion. Boys, the nicest Christmas present pou could make roe is a clean division. I thank you one and all for your fine Christmas present and assure you I appre- ciate same, not so much for its value as for the spirit that prompted the gift. W. A. McCabe, Cert 705. yet o Castle Division — At the request of Local Chairman Mc- Bride papers were put out for donations to the floral fund Dec. 15th, 1919. The only one returned was the one sent to ,4BD” Tower to work its way back to “FN.” Every one of the boys contributed 25 cents, ”BD” and “FN,” Inclusive, $4.25 being col- lected. Papers sent to “RX” and “AO” have never been returned, nor have I re- ceived any contributions from those terri- tories. I have done my part toward the upkeep of this fund and will not again make requests for contributions. Papers must have been destroyed by (not) a cheerful giver. On hand prior to last request $10.85 Contributions received Dec. 15th 4.50 Total $16.35 ▼. P. McLaughlin, Local Treasurer. The floral fund statement from our local treasurer is not very encouraging after all the efforts he has put forth trying to keep it up where it would insure protection for tile purpose Intended. Bro. Quay, wife and family spent Tuesday, Jan. 6th in Pittsburgh, Pa. Bro. Girberd went to second T. F. Tower a few days, and Bro. Watson to second Boughtonville on bid. Everybody patiently awaiting receipt of the long looked for back pay check, which we expect to receive in a few days. Bro. E. R. Post of Newton Falls suffered a $1600 loss by fire a few weeks ago, caused by spontaneous combustion, fully covered by insurance. Bro. Post and wife had a nar- row escape, as the fire broke out at 1 o'clock in the morning. We are in the grip of “Old King Winter,” snow and ice causing numerous delays along the line. No news received from the West End. R. Gliddon, Cert. 1998, 863 N. Front St, Cuyahoga Falls, O. Connelleville Division — We should be working under the new rates by the time you read this and have our back pay after the many delays since we first learned that Interpretation No. 8 was to be a reality. Our general and local chairmdn has done everything possible to expedite the final settlement Those who feel slighted because of their failure to receive increased rates should understand that our organiza- tion had nothing whatever to do with the order of the director general except to in- sist and work hard for its application, al- though it was realized that some would fail to benefit by it When the railroad was in- structed to apply the order it was clearly within its rights in doing so according to the strict wording of the interpretation it- self, which our committee was powerless to change. We either had to accept the appli- cation of the interpretation for the benefit of some 90 per cent of our agents and. teleg- raphers, or reject it because the other 10 per cent did not come within its provisions. As it was the final result of a long con- troversy between the Railroad Administra- tion’s Board of Wages and Working Condi- tions and the 21 railroads affected by a Sun- day rule, we were obliged to accept the director general’s order without quibbling. Dropping one’s membership because of fancied grievances is much like discontinu- ing attending church because of dislike for the minister. Let us all try our best to prove that we are worth the increased wages granted us by Interpretation No. 8. Wanted — A job anywhere near Cumber- land, Md. Address Bro. W. Drumm, Side Wire, Connellsville, Pa. Two more new members secured in this division. Bro. Bloom, Mt. Savage Junction, was called away suddenly in January because of the death of a relative. Digitized by Googk

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244 The Railroad Telegrapher. The general manager and general superin- tendent were located at Connellsville for a week ip January, making "D” office at that point a beehive of industry. We believe Messrs. Ennes and Keegan were satisfied with the efforts made to handle their busi- ness in a business-like manner. Cert. 142. Monongdh Division — Brothers and sisters, I cannot get all the news on the division unless you help. Bend your items to the local chairman as soon as you get them and he will send them to me in time for the journal. Wilsonburg three and Silver Run one trick closed, no operators to work the turns. Boys, you better brace up, some day you will find more closed and extra work will be scarce. Glad to see Bro. J. P. Lannan back on the job from the sick list. Local Chairman Ferrell bid in W. D. Hower third, vice Raymond Allen, from the N. Y., P. & N. ; Bro. Ross bid in first, Bro. H. G. Pepper, second, and Bro. A. R. Payne, Walker thirds Bro. Wolf bid in first. Bro. McIntyre, second, and Bro. H. C. Pepper, third Irving, and Bro. Davis bid in second Long Run. Bro. Joe Cahill, home from school at Morgantown, helped out there a few days. There are now eleven vacancies on this division and understand there will soon be another one at Chieftan. Sister Mable, please accept our congratulations. Brothers and sisters, we are trying to make our division 100 per cent. Pay up your dues promptly and get that non you are working with. Don’t accept any excuse. Remember, “No card, no favors” Support your local chairman and general chairman, and stand by them to the limit. We will soon get our increase. We all extend our sympathy to Bro. Kin- caid, “OB" Parkersburg, on account of the death of his father. Sorry to learn of the serious illness of Bro. T. A. Robinson of Brydon and hope for his speedy recovery. We are glad to learn that Bro. L. T. Graham has reopened the W. U. office at West Union, after it being closed several days. Bros. J. C. Riddle, “J” Tower; D. L. Coyne, Salem, and J. O. Graham, Long Run, are contemplating a trip to Virginia to visit Bro. Ott Morrison’s farm and other points of interest. Cert. 61. Wheeling Division — Bro. Harold Sigler, after serving under the Stars and Stripes for Uncle Sam, came home and surrendered to the charms of Mrs. Mollie Clark, of Benwood. The couple were united in marriage at the parsonage of our good brother, Rev. G. D. Sampson, and have taken up their residence on Wheeling Island. They have our best wishes. J Bro. G. S. Grandstaff, second Moundsville, was stricken suddenly with something like heart trouble while on duty Thursday night Dec. 18th, and died within two hours. He was one of the most widely known teleg- raphers on the Baltimore 4b Ohio, having served as train dispatcher in Cumberland several years ago and in various other re- sponsible positions, but had been located at Moundsville, his old home, for several years Our committee had a long, hard job, but they finally won out, and we now have the company’s signature to an agreement and wage schedule, which includes the increase granted by the application of Interpreta- tion No. 8. This will amount to a neat sum in back pay and we certainly need it It would be fine now if everyone would take enough out of their back pay to pay for a 1920 annual card. Several of the boys art figuring on doing that, and I hope as many as can will do so, as it saves bother and bookkeeping and a delinquent list next Sep- tember. We have a trunk full of promises and |4.00 in money from the nons on the divi- sion. They are waiting on the back pay. too, and for them I am glad it is coming. We will now see who are the truthful lovers of liberty. "By their fruits ye shall know them.” Well, I shall know them, and 1 mean for everybody on the division to know them. Five years or more should be ample time for anyone to Join the union if they want to or intend to do so, and no excuse will be accepted from those who do not avail themselves of this opportunity to join. Our prediction of a few months ago that the "Plumb Plan” would not receive any consideration from either the Senate or Con- gress seems to have been right But the "Cummins” bill, which is everything that is anti-labor and pro-capital, has actually passed the Senate by a good majority, and will no doubt meet with little opposition on its way to the President for his signature. Thanks should be given Senator La Follette, who did everything in his power to defeat the Cummins bill. Now, boys, what do you think of "our” representatives whom we sent to Congress and the Senate to make laws for us? Tou don’t like It? Well, don’t "cuss” them, for they have been loyal to the class they repre- sent, the capitalist class. We are the ones who made the mistake by sending them there. Let’s "cuss” ourselves for a set of silly jackasses— try to do a little thinking for ourselves and not make the same mis- take again. To read a good labor paper will help the thinking process wonderfully. J. B. Springer, L C. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 245 Illinois Central R. R., Dlv. 36. • Fitfoftffifi Division — Have you paid dues for current term? If not , tchy notf It has been long since anything appeared In the Journal from this division. The men who received an .increase In their hourly rate through Interpretation No. 8 were given their back pay along with their regular wages for the second period of De- cember, and we have settled upon the rates of the various positions. The many inequalities caused by Supple- ment No. 13, its interpretations, and adden- dum thereto, shows plainly that a lump sum & money appropriated and spread out on the various positions by men who are ac- quainted, preferably the division superin- tendent and local chairman, is by far the best and mdst satisfactory method. The idea of using as a basis for figuring a man’s future pay, so short a period as a given month, is preposterous and could only work out unsatisfactorily, because with the so- called "blanket” propositions invariably the “blanket" is entirely too small. But Sup- plement No. 13 was a Government award, and after the organization had used all fair means to have it revised and were unable there was absolutely nothing left to do but abide by it Had we not done so we would have been branded un-American. A very good meeting was held in Free- port January 17th, although only eighteen were present on account of the cold weather. However, a good or bad meeting is not de- termined by the number in attendance. The local chairman went into detail rela- tive to the Government award and showed how the O. R. T. had struggled and worked for fourteen months to have it put into ef- fect After having resorted to all possible fair means to have it revised and failed, there was nothing to do but "go to it" and get out of it every cent possible for every position, which, without doubt, the I. C. committee has done. Its next work will be to adjust the in- equalities that exist, and proceedings have already been started to do so. Brothers and sisters, let's give the organization our un- divided support and continue the march of progress. More meetings should be held, more should attend and more good would be forthcoming. Bra Schlaf got the highest increase, 9% cents an hour. Bro. Aufdensprlng has returned to Minonk agency after several weeks on special work other than railroading, relieved by Chief Clerk Halfman. Minonk is the wireless cen- ter of the universe. Bros. Taylor, French and GoliWas keep things humming. Every day they copy stuff from the East and South coast and from Washington, D. C. Bro. Huisinga Is now with a shipping cor- poration in Milwaukee at double the wages he got at Monroe. We regret his departure, but rejoice in his success, which is bound to keep coming. Things will appear rather tame to "Slim" in Milwaukee after having "done France." He was a member of the famous 13th Engineers. Bro. Edwards goes to C. N. W. Crossing, vice Bro. Abbott, and Bro. Wood to second Rockford, 90 days, vice Bro. Foucht, both for 90 days, owing to the death of his father ; Bro. Thompson is relieving Bro. Sibley on third Seward for 60 days. The latter, while at his Mississippi home on a visit, ran into sickness, which has detained him. Bro. Martinez, awarded second Seward, was suc- ceeded by Bro. Strand at Kerrick agency. Bro. Jones went to first La Salle, succeeded by Bro. Eickman at Seward agency. New members: L. L. Lamb and J. M. Fort of Madison, whose positions were re- cently written into the schedule. They showed their appreciation by Joining at once. Several more will soon do likewise. We now have 136 on the seniority list, including ten positions recently written in the schedule, and without a doubt will end the month with not to exceed three non-members, pos- sibly only one, the old original Heyworth. Operator Cox, being made a regular dis- patcher. was succeeded on third "K" office Freeport by Bro. Olsen, making him handy for extra dispatching. Have you paid dues for current termt If not, why notf The great leader of the coal miners, John Mitchell, said : "The only thing that really retards the work is the wage earner who does not get into his or- ganization and the one who habitually drops out; of the two the latter is the greater ob- struction." Wanderlust. Iowa Division — All except a few agents received a raise of from 4 to 8 cents an hour from Interpre- tation No. 8 to Supplement No. 13, and back pay checks were sent out January 17. Bros. W. W. Hollingsworth and H. F. Lamb are visiting their homes in the South, latter relieved by Bro. Doll, vice Bro. Carl Storey, relieving there. Bro. "Casey" Jones relieving at Webster City, and Bro. Dix are now with the C. G. W., former at Lohrville, la. Bro. Harry Storey, who relieved Bro. Crouch, Wrenn Tower second, a few days, is now at Glennville, Minn., on the Minnesota Division. Bro. Smith, agent Sheldon, and Bro. Hum- mel, second Rockwell City, were in Logan recently, former attending court. Brothers, let’s get busy and put this divi- sion on the map again. I am indebted to Bro. Rogers, Rockwell City, for most of these Digitized by Google

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246 The Railroad Telegrapher. notes. The others I wrote to for items did not reply. Don’t forget your dues for 1920 and try to be 100 per cent. "HO,” Cert. 1Q82. Iowa Division Notes — Wm. Garvey, Parkersburg second, relieved by H. D. Akeson, relieving the agent at Denison four months. Bro. E. J. Doll is relieving the agent at Parkersburg. Bro. H. Johnson is relieving Bro. W. W. Hollingsworth, third Monson, on three months' leave, visiting his folks at Terry, Miss. Bro. Spangler, first Monson, was drawn on the petit Jury, February term, Calhoun County. Bro. Frank relieved Bro. O. E. Johnson, agent Monson, while he attended the recent special meeting of the Grand Lodge, I. O. O. F., at Des Moines, Iowa. Bro. Mullen, third Fonda, visited relatives in Des Moines a week recently. Bro. F. G. Warner, agent George, has pur- chased a dairy farm in Ohio, on which he expects to move after this year. Bro. Dunlap, agent Gaza, was a recent Sioux Falls Sunday visitor. Bro. Rahn, agent Anthon, visited relatives in Smithland recently. Cxht. 1924. Louisiana Division — Greetings to you, my brothers: I sincerely hope that you and yours en- joyed the holiday season. Mine has been most enjoyable — blessed with good health, enough wherewith all to maintain my repu- tion for fair dealing, plenty of honest hard work and a multitude of true and loyal friends. So I am happy, and I want you to be so, too. After many months of delay we reached an agreement with the management, the re- vised schedule has been printed and copies are being mailed to the membership. I hope we will soon be experiencing the help- ful effects of back pay. Everyone working a scheduled position should read the rules carefully so they may be fully understood and claim made for all that is due you. Some brothers are asking what rate to use for Sunday and holiday time. Article 18 provides that if you are worked a full regular week day assignment the pay will be pro rata, but if worked a less number of hours on Sundays or holidays than on week days, you are allowed a call (two hours at time and one-half) for the first two hours or less and pro rata there- after. If required to report more than once you get a call for each time coming on duty. This rule is retroactive to October 1st, 1918. The general secretary and treasurer has mailed out the "notice of dues slips” to the membership for the new term, and a hearty response will be appreciated both by him and myself, so that we can close the term with the same splendid record as the last. , Bro. Akers is back at Tangipahoa after having a minor operation performed. The new seniority lists are now available. Bra Chambers is being relieved by Bro. Baker on account of his health. Bro. Elisey bid in Madison agency, vice Bro. Gouldman to "XN" second. Three new members, Bros. Wilson, Moul- liet and Edwards. Wanted— Division correspondent; one who i can gather news without assistance pre- ferred. J. T. Mashbubn, L. C. Tennessee Division — ^ ] A very enthusiastic meeting was held at i Fulton, Ky., the night of January 11th, at- i tended by General Chairman Mulhall, Asris- tant General Chairman Chance, General Sec- I retary and Treasurer Shannon, Local Chair- i man Bradford and ex-Local Chairman Phillips and the following other brothers from a distance : J. H. Blane, M. W. Pente- cost, W. W. Noll, H. B. Reones, A. El An- derson, E. A. Dunn, K. T. Sullivan, J. M. Taylor, E. Goulder, C. R. Collins, W. N. Bircbeth, C. B. Slmonton. W. H. Campbell J and H. W. Hills. All the general officers in their remarks strongly urged keeping thoroughly organ- ized as a safeguard against the possibility of losing what we recently gained and the chances of gaining still more. The organization is in a flourishing con- dition and we must not fall to pay dues and boost the O. R. T. as we have never done before. The officers attending this meeting left on midnight trains for points north to hold a series of division meetings. Great enthu- siasm prevails all over the system. Cxrt. 208. Memphis Division , Y. A If. V. — I have paid my 1920 dues. If you have paid yours then ask the fellow at the next station if he has. If not, see that he does so at once. If not a member, secure his ap- plication. Bro. Tyler, at "YD" Nonconnah, says he is going to get six applications from the men at the West and Blast Junction Jobs, whose positions were taken into the sched- ule. They seem to be well pleased with their change. Bro. Mulhall was in Memphis for a few days about the first of January. Bro. D. J. Rhynne relieved by Bra Con- ner at Silver City owing to sickness. Bro. Chas. Minter Dundee, who sustained three broken ribs and other minor injuries in a fall while putting up some file boxes Sunday, Jan. 18th, is in the hospital, relieved by Bro. Collins. Digitized by Google

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Tub Railroad Telegrapher. 247 Bro. Sanders protected Moorhead agency when separated from the Southern, until as- signment was made. Bro. Overby, "GO” Memphis, has gone with the W. U. Bro. Thornton, visiting relatives in Ten- nessee, relieved by Bra Crook. He and Bro. Crump, Swan Lake; Dugger, Lake Cormor- ant, and Grubbs, Clover Hill, all new men employed during holiday rush, are putting in straight time. Bra Smith, agent Cruger, is relieving Division Agent Wolf, assigned to other duties. Nearly every operator on the division for a New Year greeting received a back time check for an increase of 5 to 8 cents an hour due on account of Sunday time not counted in previous increasa. A new schedule and seniority list -will be mailed out shortly. Compare that schedule with your old one, and then smile, for you will have to admit things have changed. "Mack,” Cert 1234. Pere Marquette R. R.f Dlv. 39. Toledo- Saginaw Division — Been doing an enormous business this winter. Considerable delay to all freight trains due to weather conditions and all yards being congested, but the brothers at the terminal points have been right on the job, giving the dispatchers all the assistance possible. McGrew has been a very busy point, due to the large volume of business for Bulck Motor Co. and other concerns on account of their roundhouse. It seems to be a popular point to tie up at. Three new tricks created at Flint passen- ger depot, but owing to scarcity of good operators our chief has been unable to open them. Bro. Mike Henry, McGrew, first, on two weeks’ visit at Monessen, Pa., and other Pennsylvania points, relieved by our new Bro. Barber. Ho chance to escape wnen they work with Bro. Cameron. Bro. E. Young went to Northville pend- ing bids. Boys, if you cannot stay awake for eight hoars, look for another Job where you won't cause the loss of lives if you go to sleep, and If you can’t keep awake until your relief comes, leave your train order board "red” while you doze off. We can now claim the distinction of hav- ing at least one sub-division of the P. M. 100 per cent strong, thanks to Bro. H. B. Cameron. When he came to the P. M. In October two-thirds of the agent-operators °n the Fostoria branch were nons, but he now has them all lined up. Bro. Taylor, agent Fostoria, has been a member for a number of years. Something must be done to bring in the two nons on this division before March 1st. We promised our secretary-treasurer we would have It 100 per cent strong by then. Get busy and ascertain If the man working with you has an up-to-date. If you haven’t blank applications, call McGrew, and that bunch of up-to-dates will be only too glad to send you one. We read with considerable pleasure of Bro. M. D. Terry, agent Otisville, being appointed one of the committee to compile the by- laws for the new fire department of that en- terprising village. Some of our brothers have been "kidding” M. D. over the wire about this new fire department, saying It will look more like a "Jazz” band than a fire department, but we will wager that M. D. will make a good Job of the by-laws. Ckrt. 928. Chesapeake 6. Ohio R. R., Div. 40. Richmond Division — It makes one feel bad to see a write-up In our Journal from nearly every other division except our own, which has not had one for over a year at least. We like to hear about the boys we have known and associated with in days gone by. The only way we can do that is to have our local chairmn appoint a regular correspondent and then each one of us send him all the news we hear of during the month, to be arranged and sent in by The suggestion by Bra A. F. Hall, Cert 597, Cliften Forge Division, in the December Journal, page 1699, in regard to starting some kind of a beneficiary fund for such cases as that of Bro. Poole, was a good one. With the small sum of 25 cents a month from each one of us we could Boon have a fund that would be sufficient to start with. Unless a great many needy cases had to be taken care of during the year, we should have a surplus left over to be divided pro rata among the members who had donated during that time, as some of the divisions on other roads do, or invested in such a way that the interest on it might soon amount to enough to be used to relieve the first needy cases of the current year, as far as it would go without touching the amount we had in- vested. The plans of the different divisions of other roads having such & beneficiary sys- tem could no doubt be had for the asking, from which we might evolve one to suit our especial needs in such cases. We never know when misfortune may overtake us, and such a fund might be of immediate benefit to anyone of us per- sonally, no matter how well we may have otherwise provided for such adversity. None of us would miss the small amount of 25 cents a month, which might be paid in advance, at the same time that we paid our dues, annually or semi-annually, and no doubt any one of our members would be glad to act as treasurer and manage a fund of that kind. Digitized by tjOOQle

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248 The Railroad Telegrapher. I would like to hear from some or the other brothers on this subject Bros. Beale and Woods have crone to the Coast Line on account of sick work and cutting of war-time jobs. Bro. Corker, third Strathmore, bid in first Lee Hall. Bro. Clay, second Trevellian, bumped Bro. Underwood from second Old Point Junction, who took a sixty-day layoff; Bro. Maston second Atlee, went back to second A. R. Cabin, vice Bro. Payne. Bro. Beale, second at Hanover, who did not have any pull, is back on extra list again, and Bro. Woodward, third Narge, bumped Bro. Mllloway from second Ind., there. Bro. Mayn relieved Bro. Reid, second R. Cabin, through the holidays, while he visited friends in Newport News. With best wishes to all the boys of the O. R. T. C. L. Showaltbr, Cert 1461, Old Point Jet Main Line, Huntington Division — Bro. Mathews, visiting his parents, re- lieved by Brannon, a new man. . Bro. Workman, relieved on second Cane Fork by Bro. Draper, who later relieved Bro. Bill Curry, third trick dispatcher there ; and Bro. Bob Curry, South Rulfner, was re- lieved by Bro. Henderson ; all three on ac- count of sickness. Bro. McDonnie, second “KV” Cabin, was relieved a few days by Dodson from the W. U. “U. K.” Cert 1820. Huntington and Logan Divisions — Several of our local divisions had nice write-ups in the December Journal, and we will try to keep our side up hereafter. Second and third Chapmanville, Gill, Mid- klff and Branchland and three tricks at Inez opened recently, causing our chief to hire new men, and we were unable to get off for the holidays. The November meeting at Huntington, W. Va., attended by 25 members, was a very enthusiastic gathering, and included several visitors — Bros. Hicks, Shuay, Vandevender; G. S. & T. Kiser; Chairmen Wheatley, New River; Clark, Lexington and Big Sandy; and Willis, Cincinnati districts. Good speeches were made by Bros. Hicks, Shuey, Hill and others. The general chair- man and five local chairmen remained over until November 19th, to adjust grievances on the several divisions under General Superin- tendent Bock. Bro. Hicks received a notice late that day that his wife was ill and left on Train No. 2. We are pleased to learn that it was not serious. The next regular meeting will also be held at Huntington, unless otherwise notified by Bro. Vandevender. Let’s all attend and see what is going on. Also get our new cards and keep the division in good working condition. Remember, “No card , no favors? Cert. 1628. H. V. Ry. Division — Mrs. Thomas McClain and family wish to express their sincere appreciation for the numerous acts of kindness and assistance so generously offered by friends and neighbors during the illness of the husband and father, and also wish to thank the members of the O. R. T. and the many friends for their beau- tiful floral offerings. C. W. McClain, Local Chairman, Columbia*, O. C. & O. of Indiana Division — Very glad to report Bro. Barker as con- valescing nicely over recent serious illness, but due to the long siege, it will be some time before he can resume duty at Fulton. Bro. House, again on' duty after a recent trip to Mayo Brothers, Rochester, reports feeling extra “bully.” Account many requesting off Xmas and during the holidays, Chief Dispatcher was forced to employ several extra men, Bros. Smith; Roberts and Stephens coming from C. & O. proper, also Operator Carrie from Danville, 111. We regret to learn of Sister Batcheler’s sorrow, having lost her mother during De- cember. We extend our sympathy. A few of our agents east of Muncie still insist upon “booming” the O. R. S. A. ; but will shortly become educated to the folly of such fruitless activities. The self-proclaimed president, who stated that througn nis ef- forts Board No. 8 had made certain recom- mendations to the Director General, was un- known to the board through which such pro- cedures must travel before reaching that of- ficial. These statements eventually proved good boosting for our president, who was re- sponsible for the recommendations passed upon so favorably by Board No. 1. Bro. Carter, Santa Fe, spent Xmas in Ten- nessee. Bro. Shanklin was also off duty over Xmas. Bro. Walter Renner, Peoria third, was off recently, account illness. Bro. Duke, second trick dispatcher Bos- ton, on an extended trip Bast, is being re- lieved by Bro. Hedrick, extra dispatcher. Bro. Robinson, Boston first, has returned from a very enjoyable trip in West Virginia. Bro. Bassett, Marion second, is being con- gratulated on the arrival of the first bora, a girl. Let’s make 1920. a banner year for our or- ganization, which means personal benefit to each of us. Do not allow yourself to be- come delinquent, but talk organisation. Let me have your items so I may show the Indiana Line each month. E. EL Middlskauf, Chairman. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Kailboad Teleqbapheb. 249 Boston A Maine R. R., Div. 41. White Mountain Division — The recent Southern Division Concord meeting, to which the boys on this division were Invited through me, was very beneficial to os all. The White Mountain men were in the majority and we will have to ask Local Chairman Oage for a slight explana- tion. General Chairman Bode was obliged to be in Washington, but Bro. Jones ably pre- sented the new schedule and explained it to oa Very interesting and instructive re- marks were made by other brothers. We hope another meeting will soon be held, with a larger attendance. The courtesy of Supt. Mayo in stopping the night Montreal Express to allow our members to reach home was much appreci- ated. H embers. White Mountain Division Mo. 41 — Although a little late, nevertheless I wish yon all a Happy New Tear. Get out the book of rules put out by the general manager's office in February, 1918, and study it carefully. Then there will be no necessity for the many liters I am almost daily receiving asking me for an interpre- tation of some rule. Extra work means ex- tra compensation. See that you get it, es- pecially when it means perhaps the abolish- ing or shortening the hours of some other position. Read the rule covering this and yon will Bee that it is as plain as day. C. A. Burnell, L. C. White Mountain Division Notes — Bro. Beauchesne, third Tilton, relieved by Bra B. C. Smith, took seven weeks' rest in New York City and other interesting Places. He dodged these days of hustling baggage and mall in two feet of snow. No Area to tend in the eummer time. Bro. A. S. Pearl, second Canterbury, is "building castles” on his new income since he left the W. U. at Laconia. Bro. Ruthledge, third there, hopes someone will bid off his trick. It's not alive enough place for an ex-soldier. $ Bro. Watson, third Lakeport, was recently married. Heartiest congratulations for a long and prosperous life. Bro. A. J. Worzel, Division 44, on his annual visit to Bethle- hem, who relieved Bro. Watson on his two- weeks* honeymoon, is now with E. W. Wag- * Co., New York. Frank Hubert, who went from Gorham to Bordeau and elsewhere in France, has re- turned and taken second Lakeport. Cert. 370. Fitchburg Division — Bra Thorn has given up third Baldwin • Ale for spare list. Sister O'Brien has returned to third Green- depot Bro. Dad mum is relieving Towerman Cen- ter at Gardner tower, on sick leave. General Telegraph Office — Bro. Lyle H. Rock wood, displaced by Bro. E. H. Beaudet, late of the U. S. Army, has returned to second East Fitchburg. All are sorry to lose "Rocky." "GM" now has its regular force of men and "biz" is booming. "VN,* "GM." T erminal Division, Interlocking — A flock of whistler ducks have wintered in the Charles River Basin, » near Tower "A," for several winters. Bro. Jim Nutt feeds them every day and they have become quite tame. Several of the Terminal towermen have had very interesting careers. Bros. Jack Potter and Wm. Hindle were in the tower service twelve years in England before coming to the United States. Bro. Murray Gordon claims that he has climbed Mt. Washington in his Ford. Mur- ray always was a truthful man. Bro. F. L. Wheeler, on the sick list, has returned to Tower "C." Keep after the genial Kelly at Lawrence. He will join. Cert. 406. Interlocking Division Notes — Bro. F. H. Dyer went to Tower "C” while H. C. Woodill, a member of the Massachu- setts Legislature was In attendance at the special session of that body. Bro. "Nick" Estey is delighted at the re- vival of poetry, and is composing a series of slbbets, one of which is entitled "A Trip to the Home of the Bal-sha-veek." Bro. Carroll Scott, relief towerman, gen- eral utility man, working all tricks, in all the towers. Is relieving on the Terminal. Bro. "Bunk" Mitchell, Terminal Division weather prophet, claims to have predicted the December "coal" spell. Bro. Charley Tibbetts advises all members to wear ear flaps during the cold spell. Bro. F. H. Sidney has been reelected sec- retary 6t Boston's most exclusive literary society, the Manuscript Club, and the New England Association of Railroad Veterans. Brother towermen on some of the outside divisions, let me have a few notes. They will be greatly appreciated. The address is room 121, North Station, B. & M. R. R., Boston, Mass. S. Goodwin, "VN," "GM," Cert 406. Erie Railroad, Div. 42. Members System Division 42 — Your dues for term ending June 30th, 1920, are now due. You can pay for six months, $6.00, or pay for the year 1920, $12.00, and receive an annual card. Please be prompt Digitized by Google

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250 The Railroad Telegrapher. In order that you may receive your new card. We are soaring around the 100 per cent mark in membership. Please do your part m securing the few nons that are left C. L. Bridoe, Gen. Secy & Treas., Deposit. N. V. Rochester Division — Bro Jacobs has returned to Avon first and been allowed a new W. U. clerk, Miss Clendenning. He was relieved by Bro. Schillinger as copier in Rochester, who out* bid "Non" Grover. Bro. Fracassi, who relieved Bro. Bucher, second "HO" Tower. on sick list is now on his honeymoon. Bro. M. E. Murphy has returned to Bpringwater agency kfter a short illness. The wife of Bro. J. V. Mitchell has re- turned from visiting her parents and friends in South Carolina through the Xmas holi- days. Members who have not paid up their dues for the coming term will please remember their time is up February 29th. No delin- quents wanted this time. It only adds to the duties of the chairman and causes un- called-for hard feelings amongst the mem- bership. If we do not want to hear from the chairman in this respect please keep up-to-date. definite. Cert. 1785. N. Y. 8. & W. Notes— The brothers all express their sympathy to Bro. W. B. Flecke, who fell and broke his leg going to work January 10th. He is in Englewood Hospital resting comfortably. We will miss him from our meetings, but truBt it will not be for long. Bro. "Happy" Campbell working in his place. Bro. George Syers ofT a week owing to the illness of his wife. Bros. "Mart" Garrick and "Rip" Camp- bell started for our January meeting, but failed to arrive. "Mart" reported off the fol- lowing day. We have no further particulars except that “Rip" is to return to the hos- pital to have his injured arm treated again. Bro. H. H. Hanson,* relief agent, is now at "GW" freight office, six of the* clerks being sick with the “flu.” Our chairman, failing to secure more sat- isfactory rates for Quarry ville. Crystal Lake and Prospect Avenue non-telegraph agencies from General Manager Baldwin, forwarded the necessary papers to Director General Hines for his consideration. Do not forget regular meeting first Tues- day of every month. Engineers’ Hall, Smith Building, Market street, Paterson. Cert. 2069. Can. Nat’l Ry.’t Lines West, Div. 43. Pacific District — At the last meeting I was appointed as- sistant correspondent for this district. This Is my first attempt, but a poor correspondent is better than none. Bro. Henderson goes to Entrance agency, vice A. W. Pitts, who succeeds R. J. Bur- dett, agent Port Mann, who goes to Hope, which now has continuous service, with Bros. Sanderson, Robinson and Burdett on the three trickB. Alberda days, abolished, has night service instead. Bro. Thompson, Boston Bay, is being re- lieved by Bro. Wardle, Lucerne third, re- cently married, who later relieved Bro. Chadwick, Brule nights, relieving Bro. Beach there while recovering from the acci- dent he had while skating. Bro. Pickering to Birch Inland second, re- lieved at Blue River by Skilling, a new man. J. McBaln, telegraph foreman, who went to Scotchland for the holidays, was relieved by C. Mumby, a new man. Lineman W. B. McDonald of Lucerne has gone to Hudson Bay Junction, relieved by Welboum. Frank Musgraves and A. E. Thompson are back on second and third Boston Bar after two weeks* holidays at Vancouver. Send me any notes for The Teleoraphd you can and I will try and have a write-up every month. G. L. Croutch, Cert. 865, Lineman, Kamloops Jet Central of Georgia R. R., Div. 46. Southwestern Division — We are all glad to see Bro. Warren, ex- tra dispatcher, back again after several months' illness. He and his family desire to thank the members and others for their aid and assistance during that time. Bro. Downs, who has the mumps. Is im- proving. A. F. Fain, Div. Cor. Terminal R. R. Aas'n, St Loula, Div. 47. Bro. Fisher was off a few days on account of the death of relatives in Ohio. Bro. Hoffman, "Z" Tower second, is off sick. Bro. G. B. Temple, "UD” relay, spent a few days ” with relatives in old "Kentuck. Rabbit hunting was fine. Chief Operator Davis spent several days in New Orleans during January, and Bro. Dan Murphy, wbo spent the holidays with relatives down in Missouri, says he can taste the yellow legged chicken yet. Bro. Ed. Gleason from "UD”’ is now work- ing in Bro. Rawlins* office at O. R. T. head- quarters. Drv* ^0R- Detroit, Toledo & I ronton Ry., Div. 48. Bro. J. C. Brown, ticket agent Springfield. Ohio, has been a very successful hunter during the past season. Bra L. W. Watt, C. A G. W. Stockton, HL was appointed branch agent Jeffersonville, Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 251 Ohio, vice Bro. E. B. Turnipseed, who suc- ceeded Bra McAuliff, agent Jackson, latter bidding in Adrian. Mich., agency. Adver- tising of the Jeffersonville agency is now under consideration between the general superintendent and general and local chair- man. Later Bro. Watt returned to the C. A G. W. as chief clerk to the freight agent Waterloo, Iowa. Joe Fitzsimmons, recently returned from France, relieved Murphy, 8outh End “GO” Springrfleld. promoted to car distributor. It is now Bros. J. C. Barrett and Mc- Broom, Jackson second and third, making that station solid. Brothers on the North- ern Division, get in Diemer and Fullen at Napoleon, Addy at Carleton, O’Jlearn at South Adrian, and Richey at Lima. This will make your division 100 per cent. We will all receive a member and non list shortly, now being prepared by our gen-, eral chairman, which will show who we are spending our money on. Delinquents will he listed as nons. We would appreciate it very much if some of our brothers on the Northern Divi- sion would send in some notes for the Jour- nal. As they must be in St. Louis, Mo., on or before the 25th of each month, we should have them by the 17th. Cert. 132. Denver 6. Rio Grande R. R., Div. 49. First Division — Bro. Mills, third Texas Creek, off on ac- count of his wife and son being sick at Pueblo, last reports doing well. Sympathy of the division Is extended to Bro. Curry of Palmer Lake on account of tbe death of Baby Curry and the illness of Mrs. Curry with an attack of influenza. •'Non” Kyle, a new one on the division, says ho doesn't figure on railroading long. It is now Bro. Gier, who was listed with the nons last month. Sister McNeil, at Larkspur, is being re- lieved by Mr. Virden, whose wife is Sister Vlrden of the Santa Fe at Holmes. We hope she can induce him to g^t an up-to-date. F. B. Rose, Asst. L. C. Georgia Railroad, Div. 50. We held a very interesting meeting at Buckhead Sunday, December 21st, fairly well attended In view of the busy season and scarcity of extra men to provide relief. The new contract was discussed at length, meeting with hearty approval. A marked degree of enthusiasm was shown by those present and a determination to all pull to- gether for Its enforcement In the better- ment of our division. Bro. F. F. Cagle was elected local chair- man to fill the vacancy caused by Bro. Mor- gan's resignation and assigned the territory Greensboro to Decatur, inclusive, and Local Chairman Luckey, Augusta to Robinson, in- clusive. Bro. Echols still takes care of the Macon and Bro. W. W. Darden the Athens branch, the latter being elected general chairman to succeed Bro. Morgan, to take effect Immediately. The division voted a salary of $25.00 a month for the general chairman and $20.00 a month for the gen- eral secretary and treasurer. I appeal to you to give your support to the new officers and manifest the proper irv- terest in the organization which has helped you. Cert. 13. Bessemer 6. Lake Erie R. R.f Div. 51. Shortly after Supplement No. 13 was ap- plied, certain agents who had previously worked more than eight hours a day had their hours cut to eight, and a clerk was put in charge of the station for a certain number of hours, to cover the trains that fell due outside the spread of the agent’s hours. These clerks were paid in accord- ance with the provisions of Supplement 7. As stated at several recent meetings, your committee believed that they should be paid in accordance with the provisions of Supple- ment No. 13, which would give them from $8.00 to $50.00 a month more than Supple- ment No. 7. After a number of conferences, extending over several months, the management has agreed to our contention and these clerks will be paid accordingly, from Jan. 1st. 1920. This puts them on an hourly instead of a monthly basis, establishing a 4 8 -cent hour minimum, $98.84 for 26 days' work, and time and one-half overtime. In nearly every case it will put them on a straight eight- hour day instead of working through a spread of nine hours, and give them back pay, including time and one-half for the ninth hour, from October 1st, 1918, which will average over $300 a man and bring them under our agreement with the man- agement, both as to wages and working con- ditions, so they may handle their grievances through our committee at once. A meeting will be held In the near future to decide their exact position under our agreement. Clerks to whom this applies are located at Girard, Cranesville, Albion, Meadville Junc- tion, Greenville and Grove City ticket offices, Branceton, Argentine, Hilliards, Curtis- ville, Russellton, River Valley, Unity Junc- tion, Universal and East Pittsburg. The exact status of clerks at Springboro, Con- neautville and Queen Junction has not yet been determined. The total amount back pay will be $11,- 500 and agents will receive about $6000 of this. It is with deep regret that we announce the death of the wife of Bro. W. H. Phil- Digitized by Google

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252 The Railroad Telegrapher. lips and we extend our heartfelt sympathy to Bro. Phillips and relatives. Bro. P. L. Fitch, agent Hartstown, has returned from Greenville Hospital, where he underwent an operation for appendicitis. The N. T. C. & St. L. are now taking our cars currently via Wallace Junction, reliev- ing the situation at Albion storage yards. Bro. O. F. Whitford, on sick .list, relieved by Bro. R. A. Miller. Bro. L. R. Gregory is now “Dr” L. R, Gregory, specialist on dogs. Bro. V. P. Lyman, agent Cranesville, has received word that a ‘'gusher" has been struck on his land in Texas. Bro. .Ross Williams Is keeping the 1326 hot In Conneaut yards, N. Y. C. & St. L., until navigation reopens over here. Bro. O. L. Whitford, in Butler Hospital with blood poison, is getting along as well as could be expected, Bro. McCarrier work- ing second Calvin in his place. Bro. C. H. Bible called from N. Y. C. & St. L. to relieve Bro. C. W. Smith, "A" yard second, on account of sickness. West Pringfield Is now a block office, 6 :30 a. m.-2 :30 p. m., and Elk Creek two tricks, 7 a. m.-ll p. m. Boys, try and keep the trainmen oif the phones, where they are not needed. Report them to our general chairman, who will do the rest. J. D. Hosler, Dlv. Cor. So. Pac. Ry., Pac. 8ya., Dlv. 53. Sacramento Division — Congress, in its haste to enact specific legislation to eliminate the evils now regard- ed as being so threatening to the welfare of our country, is endeavoring to enact legis- lation, particularly the Sterling bill, the Graham and other anti-sedition measures, which if successful, to quote Samuel Gom- pers, "will violate the constitution and rob the whole American people of their most cherished and most basic guarantees of free Government Labor and capital are inseparable and both must succeed. Both are entitled to fair dividends and capital, through the long ex- perience of "big business" and an army of highly trained attorneys and auditors, pro- tects the corporations’ interests’ to the last mite, which the average station agent well knows by the receipts of debit letters and Western Union error sheets. Where does the laborer come in for his share? If he is fortunate enough to get a fair wage or any increase at all, nine times out of ten it is the result of the labor organization of which he is a member. Local Chairman Wilson, while taking a much needed vacation, has accepted tem- porarily the position of freight traffic man- ager for the Silva Bergthold Nursery Co. at Newcastle, but will assume his duties on first Truckee about March 1st He writes that Article 8 is still under consideration and has been referred back to the powers at Wash- ington with good prospects of us getting our increase. There have been many changes, but owing to the lack of the definite information I am unable to give them. Being located in the snowsheds on the Sierra Nevada mountains, my facilities for newsgathering are very limited, so again I earnestly request all the members who have any items or can secure them to please write them up and mail them to me at Truckee, Cal., by the 18th of each month, as they must arrive at St. Louis by the 26th to insure publication. Yours for a better organization, E. T. Nickel, Cert. 1216. Los Angeles Division — Assistant Local Chairman Bro. P. J. Coyle, agent Newhall, J>eing a consecutive member 28 years, is entitled to ah honor emblem, which he will receive shortly from Grand Secretary and Treasurer Rawlins. Bro. Wilcox, relieved at Walnut, dis- placed Bro. Baumgardner on second Edom. Bro. Hall, who relieved Bro. Wildes at Bertram for Xmas, also relieved Bro. Shutt at Beaumont a few days. Bro. Clark, displaced by Bro. Scott on sixth "NG" Los Angeles, relieved Bro. Wat- son, third India, for Xmas, returning to "NG" when Bro. Scott displaced Bro. Laf- ferty in "HU," who relieved Bro. Putnam, third Saugus, resigned. Bro. Willes, also displaced in "HU," relieved Bro. Adams, second Niland, owing to the serious illness .of his wife. Bro. Castleberry relieved Bro. Hardesty, extra Thermal, who went to first Am on and Imperial second a few days. Local Chairman Meador, in organization work on the Santa Fe for three months, was on his return used in the superintendent’s office awhile. The membership presented Bro. Meador with $141.00 on Christmas. Bro. Frank Geiger of Riverside reports a good orange crop from his trees, and says an orange grower hasn’t half the worries throughout the year as a local chairman has in a week. He is now local ageht for the Dayton airless auto tires. Bro. A. H. Foster, Cert. 171, Div. 63. agent San Miguel, Coast Division, seniority February 13, 1918, salary 69 cents per hour, wishes to trade to Los Angeles Division. Located in rich grain and almond section, beautiful climate, progressive business town, bank, hotels, number large stores, on state highway, station electric lighted. Bag- gage and warehouseman. Prospects for out- side investments very good. Anyone inter- ested write, care Hotel Arlington, stating what you have to offer. Cert. 764. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 253 San Joaquin District — Kindly note page 4 of the Southern Pacif- ic Bulletin, columns 2 and 3: “American Standards Are Applied to Foreign Labor.” How would this look if it read: “Foreign Standards Are Applied to American Labor?” How many of you brothers who are living in dilapidated car bodies, tie houses and ramshackle buildings would care to live in "cemeflt houses with tile roofs,, with a green plot and a place for a vegetable garden in evidence?*’ “The laborer Is happy” would be right. Sister Watts has resigned since her hus- band, Dispatcher Watts, returned from the service. Bro. Kendrick, agent Earlimart, called East owing to the serious illness of his father, relieved by O. C. Lehmer. We have been obliged to turn down the requests of Bros. Fulton and A. O. Miller, restoration of seniority, on account of viola- tion of agreement which would set aside Article 17, Section “D” of our agreement From my little alkali spot with its dry Well and empty water tank, I wish you a happy and prosperous New Year. Cert. 663, ELC. Stockton District — Our notes for the January Journal were delayed in the mails and did not reach St. Louis in time for publication. They are included in this write-up for February. Bro. Darrow, returning from bis visit to the old Wisconsin home, was recalled by the death of his mother through heart failure. He has the sympathy of all. \le also visit- ed Bro. J. C. High, general chairman of the Santa Fe at Chicago. Bro. High will be remembered by some of the older brothers on this division, where he worked several years ago, and to such he sends best regards. Bro. Cooley, Volta, stayed 4t the Volta Club while his wife and daughter visited relatives at Colorado Springs over the holi- days. Bro. Cole, Los Banos, has resigned and Is now with the Americah Express Co. in Kan- sas. L. C. McMullen, now relief agent Los Banos, erroneously referred to In December Journal as Bro. McMillan, promises to take out an up-to-date shortly. A clerk has now been allowed there. Bro. Isham, formerly third Elk Grove, is now with the Chevrolet people at Oakland, doing finely. Tyndal, Tracy fourth, has silently slipped away. Bro. Kahuda, former agent Madera, has resigned to continue banking work in Iowa. Bros. Knightly and Collins at Kerman were the first two members on this division to pay dues for 1920 and take out annuals. Bro. J. R. McKnight, agent Rosamond, San Joaquin Division, wishes to trade with an agent or operator on this division, agency preferred. Will furnish a copy of Bro. Mc- Knight’s letter to you or you can get in touch with him direct. As soon as the final decision is reached with system officials regarding Interpreta- tion No. 8 to Supplement No. 13, time rolls will be checked to compute back pay, which will probably take another two months. Our representatives have been doing the best possible to, expedite matters. , All claims similar to the “Barton claim” (time for deadheading from one assigned position to another) will be paid, both past and future, according to decision handed down by Mr. McIntyre. Bro. Cull has received a letter of thanks to our entire membership from President Man ion, expressing his deep appreciation or the testimonial (life membership in Division 53) bestowed upon him by this division. Am indebted to Bros. Orr, Darrow, Wykea and Surryhne for contributions. Would like to have someone on Brighton district give me a lineup on happenings there ; also some brother send me the Oakland branch news. “DF,“ Cert. 624. Tucson Division — I am advised by Bro. Hammond that a Royal typewriter costing $46.00 and mime- ograph, $40.00, for the office of the local chairman have been purchased and shipped and $3.00 returned to the division. The following members subscribed the money, which I remitted Bro. Hammond for this purpose : Two dollars each: Ford, Reed, O'Connor, Kline, Pritchett, Shook, Kislig, Cates and Mahoney. One dollar each : Doyle, Jennings, Davis, Esden, Moores, A. L. and L. C. PIxley, Barn- well, Case, Zimmerman, Caldwell, Cook, Turner, Hill, Finney, Taylor, Woodside, Adams, Pine, Guidry, Carlson, S. E. and E. H. Hobart, Volk, Perrin, Welsh, Brewton, Hickerson, B. S. and E. J. Weller, Stiver, Kelly, J. F. Hoover, McEvoy, Dyess, Hamil- ton, Baker, G. E. Wilson, Duell, Strout, Walsh, Bostick, Ewing, Todd, Lawson. Harshman, Christian, Phillips, Greer, Brin- ley, Kendall, O’Maley, T. H. and K. B. Mor- rison, Elliott, Brown, Morgan, Vermillion, C. M. Smith, Hicks. O’Brien, Gilbert Whit- son, Spaulding, Black, Hibbs, Kitchens, Boulter and Heigel. This is an acknowledgment and receipt for these amounts and I gratefully thank these members for their response, as this added equipment will greatly facilitate the work in the local chairman’s office. Fra- ternally, D. B. Ma HONEY. Digitized by Google

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254 The Kailkoad Telegrapher. Tuctfon Division Noted — We desire to thank everyone who con- tributed to the fund Bro. Spaulding origi- nated, which was presented us as a New Year’s gift, and have individually vowed our loyalty and dedicated our services for the coming year to matters of interest to the organization In general and our brothers’ and sisters’ welfare, in diligently and gladly doing our duties as chairman and assistant chairman. We both sincerely thank all who contrib- uted to the typewriter and mimeograph fund which Bro. Mahoney fostered, and especially thank him for his services while division correspondent. We urge the members to send at least one note each month to the newly appointed correspondent, Sister Kathryn B. Morrison, Box 44, Benson. Arizona. J. C. O'Conner. Local Chairman, Aden, N. M. H. L. Kisliq, Assistant Chairman, Tucson, Ariz. Sa It Lake District — Fred W. Adams, first trick operator, and Towerman Flanigan, Nevada, modern four- room house, averaged better than $220 for six months, wants to consider trade ; Coast preferred, anything considered ; six years’ rights ; position available June fourth. Cert. 526. Coast Division — Bro. Walsh, King City, relieved Bro. Lacey on account of sickness, relieved by Bro. Brannon, later to dispatcher’s office Dunsmulr. Bro. Fisher, who relieved Bro. Foster at "MS” San Francisco, also relieved Bro. May and Bro. Gross at Santa Cruz a few days. Bro. Duffy relieved Bro. Shane in "ND" San Francisco several days ; Bro. Spencer, from "BD," bumped Bro. Cookson, Watson- ville Junction, who relieved Bro. King and Bro. Evans, San Luis Obispo, for a few days. Bro. Lawrence, Sargent, relieved several dayB by Bro. Carpenter owing to sickness. Bro. Wood side relieved Bro. Ward, San Jose, and Bro. Trexler relieved Bro. Carl, Redwood City, over the holidays. The lat- ter, after bumping Bro. Brannon, Bay Shore, relieved Deardorf, second **MD” San Fran- cisco, while he relieved Dispatcher Hener. We are all glad to hear Bro. Grove back at Bay Shore after a prolonged illness. Bro. Monday at Redwood is off on official business. Bros. Kilgore and Colson of Gilroy were also off during the holidays, former relieved by Bro. Fuller, Jr. Bro. Woodside relieved Bro. McSweeney, Santa Maragarita. resigned to try farming. Laurel station closed ; Bro. Reddington re- lieving agent at Los Altos. Cert. 1876. Northern Pacific R. R., Div. 54. Dakota Division — Greetings! Members, Dakota Division is 100 per cent solid. We closed an eventful year and went "over the top” December 31st with every last agent and telegrapher up-to-date In both the Fraternal and Mutual departments. With 126 members on the seniority list January 1, 1920, we have the highest per- centage this division has ever enjoyed, and every one of them an enthusiastic booster for the Q. R. T. Congratulations to all of you, sisters and brothers alike, and heartiest thanks to my hard-working assistants and other loyal workers who helped to make this possible to whom I have also written personally, as has also Bro. Nas^n. Every assistant local chairman and the other hustling brothers worked with an interest that was good to see. We closed the year, leading the N. P. System, an example of what real co-opera- tion will accomplish with a hard-working and fighting general secretary and treasurer who never sleeps. Bro. Bert E. Nason’s valuable help was and always will be ap- preciated and the Dakota Division member* doff their hats to him. Now that we’ve got them In, let's see that they keep up-to-date by remitting dues promptly, for annual cards, where possible, at $15.00, or at least the $7.50 for semi-annual term on time. February 28th Is the DANGER LINE. Keep paid up and organ- ize the newcomers as fast as they arrive. Recent new members who helped td make our 100 per c§nt possible are: L. J. Jedllcka, Steele; H. E. Moyes. Chaseley: Chas. V. Pardon. Glover; Fred J. Thimmesch, ”SM” Tower; A. M. Mellum. Maddock; H. E. Burkett. W. S. Downing, E. E. Kelleran and W. E. Reppeto. Bro. C. W. Davis is relieving Bro. N. 0. Parr, visiting in Illinois. Bro. Wm. C. Hutchinson succeeds Sister Margaret Watt as agent at Flora. She was recently married at St. Paul and will make her home at Drake. Bro. HL E. Rannestad, agent Began, was complimented by Inspector Weston for hav- ing the neatest and best station he had found on the system. Bro. C. M. Shaw, resigned at Burt is working as a bookkeeper while taking an ac- counting course in Chicago. Bro. J. E. Stokes is relieving Bro. J. P- Kincaid, agent Maddock on an extensive leave and Bro. C. W. Davis is relieving’ Bro. N. O. Parr at Ladoga. Special mention is due Bro. Underwood, assistant local chairman Elgin, for the ex- cellent follow-up system he used in the drive. Rro. Herman Pravitz. agent Careon. the Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 255 oldest member on this division, is being xe- lleved by Bro. H. R. Raeshke's brother from Mlnnew&ukan. a helper. Bro. John Lucli- singer, banker Ypsilanti, and Bro. B. H. O’Hara, second Sterling, are the two next oldest members. Bro. J. V.^Goin writes from Fairbanks. Ia., on the C. G. W., for a copy of our schedule, as he hopes to land back on this division. Bro. C. J. Roberts, Pipestone Tower. i\ member of the State Central Committee for S. D. Working People’s Political* Non- Partisan Alliance, is making a drive for membership. Faithfully yours, H. H. Ellsworth, L. C. Lake Superior Division — Bo. McFarland, Carlton, relieved by Bro. Buelow several weeks owing to the serious illness of his little son. Bro. Coyner on third. Bro. Hoffman, first Aitkins, is in hospital. Brainerd, for operation, relieved by Bro. Spurrier, of second, relieved by Bro. Glum from third Anton. Second Anton, closed few days, reopened by Bro. Hendrickson from D. & I. R. Sister Dailey, third Motley, on a trip to Jamestown, relieved by Miss Theron Busch from Kimberly, niece of Sister Nichols. Sister Lankford, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Aasve, new man. Bro. Nemetz, new man, relieved Bro. Anderson, third Moose Lake, while making assignment. Bro. As- tasia, first Moose Lake, and Bro. Hacket. third Hugo, who relieved Bro. Blooraquist, Iron River, a few weeks. Bro. Hildebrandt was in Rush City a few days looking after Bro. LaPole’s business at the Mercantile Company. Bro. O'Brian, second West Duluth, nar- rowly escaped serious injury recently when a light engine ran into the truck he was unloading baggage from to No. 65. Bro. Johnson from p. Sc I. R. and Bro. Cleary from C. N. opened second and third Mahtowa. Thanks to Bros. Hildebrandt. Linden, Pen- rose, Glum, Coyer and Aasve for items. J. F. O'Neal, Cert. 632. Minnesota Division — This is the first news from Minnesota Di- vision for Borne time. All items should reach the division correspondent not later than the 20th of each month bo as to get them in St. Louis by the 23rd. Bro. A. C. Gulbranson at Fergus Falls should be mailed all items on the Fergus Falls Branch, Bro. H. R. Morrau at Fertile all items on the Red River Branch, and Bro. J. G. Swanson at Frazee all Main Line news. It’s pretty hard for one man to get it all. so any one who has any news should send it to one of these three men. Bro. Hickey, first Detroit, relieved Dis- patcher Cummers on the branches, relieving first trick main line Dispatcher Tindal whili he was in Brainen} Hospital with pneumonia. Bro. Anderson, agent Frazee. with a bad attack of rheumatism for three weeks, was treated ly a chiropractor at Detroit and did not lay off. Bro. Al. Stinar of Bluffton is relieving Agent Miller at Wadena for six weeks. Bro. Gray, Wadena thircl. relieved Bro. Williams, first there, while on sick list. Miss Minnie Hindebrandt. ticket clerk Wadena, spent a few days at her home in Detroit on account of illness. Former Bro. L. P. Minor, agent- telegra- pher and towerman Manitoba Junction, died recently of tuberculosis of the bone follow- ing an operation at St. Luke's Hospital. Fargo, N. Dak. Funeral service was con- ducted by the Masonic Lodge at Hawley, where he was burled. He leaves a wife and three small children to mourn his loss. Mrs. Minor has purchased a home in Hawley and will take advantage of the good school there for the education of her children. Bro. Degnan, confined in Brainard Hos- pital for a long time, *is very much Improved and hopes to soon return to work. We are sorry to hear of the death of Bro. Howe’s little daughter. The remains were laid to rest in the Detroit cemetery. We all extend our heartfelt sympathy to the be- reaved ones. I regret that I did not know of this in time to have arranged for flowers. Brothers, let me know at once of instances of this kind. New members: G. E. Bockover, Fergus Falls, Minn, (towerman): W. P. Maid, agent telegrapher, Drayton, N. D. ; K. C. Jacob- son.. maintained formerly telegrapher on Soo Line, transferred to Division 54. The new seniority lists will be mailed out in a few days. You will note that the senior- ity dates from time of last employment on division covered by the schedule. Our aim for 1920 is to make Minnesota Division solid 100% membership. Our mot- to: Every member get a new member in 1920. L. W. Sbtterholm, L. C. Fargo Division— To the Members : Your division is what you make it. Through co-operation with the local chairman there is nothing that cannot be accomplished. Discord causes friction and imaginary grievances do not Justify you in dropping your card and becoming delinquent. Your letter to the chairman may be one of over a hundred he has to consider and an- swer. Give him the consideration due. If there are a few days delay in receiving a reply it is not his fault, but owing to the time Digitized by tjOOQie

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256 The Railroad Telegrapher. it takes to handle all the correspondence of his office. Ninety twenty ts well under way. Co-operate with him in making your divi- sion what you want it to be. “Knockers” cause dissension ; “boomers ” create enthu- siasm. Os “boosters” and good results will follow. I regret to announce the death of the daughter of one of our older members. Bro. Lindquist of Berlin. Our sympathy is ex- tended to the bereaved parents and family. CBRT. 690. Members Idaho Division — The past two years I have carried the du- ties of chairman and correspondent. I be- lieve handling our grievances of more im- portance than the write-ups and the latter were neglected because very few of the members contributed any items. I have now appointed Bro. P. M. Anderson, Trout Creek, division correspondent. Hereafter kindly send all your items to him on or before the 18th of each month. Bro. Ander- son has showed a big spirit in organization work and sending in news items will help him to make the write-ups interesting. I want to make this division absolutely one hundred per cent. We are not stern enough with the NON, we work beside and treat him too much as a friend. Do not ask a favor of him and you will not have to give one. Transact your railroad busi- ness in a business manner and cease your relations at that. There are several yet reaping the benefits of your efforts and tak- ing what you are paying for. It Is to your interest to bring them in and see that they pay for the better conditions and salaries your money has brought to them. Mail me a card asking their names and show them your fighting blood. R. B. Irwin, L. C. Idaho Division Notes — Bro. Thornton, first Trout Creek, spent the holidays with his wife and family at Ramsey, relieved by Sister (Peggy) Burgund, who later relieved Bro. Miller, first Eddy, a few days on sick list. Bro. P. M. Anderson transferred to second Trout Creek, vice Sister Howe, called to Spo- kane account nothing in sight, relieved by Sister Brand. Bro. Hartman, third Trout Creek, called to St Paul owing to the illness of his wife, was relieved by Sister S. E. Williams, who also relieved Bro. Stevens, first, and Bro. Williams, second Kildee, a few days, and Sister Stevens, third there, while she ac- companied her daughter to Spokane for an operation, later relieving Bro. Beske, third Heron, while he took his wife to Spokane. Bro. Vawter, third Kootenai Yard, and Bro. Bailey, second Ramsey, were off few days recently, latter relieved by Sister Cheatham. Sister Percy, first Ramsey, spent the holi- days with her husband on the Milwaukee, relieved by Sister J. W. Thomson, relieved on third there by Sister Paulin. Sister Cahill, third Veiox. #as purchased a five-passenger Dodge. Sister Morton, third Noxon, called to bed- side of a sick brother in Spokane, was re- lieved by Bro. G. D. Hartman, who later relieved Bro. Faus, first Thompson Falls, while visiting his son, Dr. Faus. at Lewis- ton. Bro. Hartlerode, agept Granite, was off a few days recently. Bro. Thomson, agent Otis Orchards, while visiting his family at Noxon, Mont,, was relieved by Bro. W. J. Hilliard, who later relieved Bro. W. E. Barrow, agent Marshall, six weeks, and then visited at his home in Creston, Wash. Bro. Cruser. agent Reardan. has resumed duty after an extended sick leave. Hope third closed one night owing to Sis- ter Shavelear’s illness. Bro. Green, agent Palouse, in , Missoula Hospital several weeks, was relieved by Bro. Stephens, operator there, relieved by Bro. Day Reynolds a few days after Bro. Green’s return. Bro. Ramey, agent Creston, is touring Florida 90 days in his new car. Bro. Parent, second Cheney, mashed his hand and was relieved three weeks by Broe. Hilliard and Anderson. The latter spent a very enjoyable day recently visiting Local Chairman Irwin at Clark’s Fork. Bro. P. F. Ebert went to Pasco Yard dur- ing the holidays. Bro. Harrison, third Paradise, spent the holidays with relatives In Michigan, relieved by Bro. L. B. Erickson. S. M. Anderson, Cert 49S. Trout Creek, Mont. Rocky Mountain Division — Very sorry to report the death of Bro. P. A. Scholz, operator at Hamilton, January 12. He had been ill several days, but his con- dition was not considered serious until hia heart became affected when he suddenly passed away. We lose a steadfast and con- scientious member and the heartfelt sympa- thy of the entire division is extended to the bereaved family in their hour of sorrow. “MD” Missoula has beep made a 6-man position again, which with the opening tem- porarily of Frenchtown and Dixon second and Iron Mountain third, seems to indicate that heavy business is anticipated. Bro. Ziebarth, returning from service in the U. S. Marines, bumped Sister Rowan from Charlo agency, opened recently. Bro. Woods, agent Frenchtown, visiting Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 257 South, relieved by Bro. Mort. Brien, with Stater Kinsey on second. Bro. Jones, agent Florence, called East by sickness, relieved by Bro. Owens, a new man from the Yel- lowstone Division. Cert. 774. Members Pasco Division — I have been greatly disappointed at the response I received to the call for money for the brother who has been ill for so long. Some of you sent more than I requested, and were most generous. Others have so far failed to respond. We paid a flfty-dollar doctor bill from this fund, and it left less than thirty, whereas, if all had sent in what was requested it would have amounted to more than two hundred. This brother has a family perfectly willing to do whatever is necessary, but many members of the divi- sion felt that we should be glad and prour to do what we could for him, in view of what he has done for the division. The Seattle Division raised $196 for a sick mem- ber a few weeks ago and I think we should do as welL Think it over, and those of you who haven’t contributed, please do so if you are able to afford it • Fraternally, H. H. Flebher. Tacovia Division — Our beloved and worthy brother, H. L, Phillips, was called on Christmas day to his reward in the land that lies beyond the vision of mortal eye. All the brothers and etatere in and near Tacoma, whose duties permitted, attended the last rites. The dis- patcher’s office was represented by Bros. Hartl and Seblist. Bro. Parkinson was called to Springfield. ID., by the death of his fcither. Bro. Mar- cotte, agent Winlock, received word that his father had passed away at Montreal. Bro. Mhrcotte was unable to leave. Bro. Runyan, agent Littell, was summoned to Lenox, la., by the death of his father. Our sincere sympathy is extended to the bereaved sisters and brothers above named. Bro. D. A. Phillips on second Lakevlew after a period of illness. Bro. Carr bid Olympia days. Mrs. H. L. Phillips desires to thank the brothers and sisters of this division for their kindness and expressions of sympathy in her hour of grief and for the beautiful floral offering. Elxse A. Mublke, Div. Cor. Pro Tern. Wheeling & Lake Erie R. R., Div. 55. Second and third Bolivar opened by Bros. T. W. Gasrett and C. C. Graham, and sec- ond and third Somerdale by I. M. Voorhees »nd Sister Odea! Scholl. Bro. Gruber relieved at Hartville a few days by O. L. O’Dell, later to third "D” Brewster, account Bro. Schulenburger sick. Bro. E. H. Dayton, third Cleveland Yard, relieved eight days by Bro. Brandal, 93rd Street. Bro. Bet ton is being relieved by Mrs. L. H. Hartzell on second Mingo Yard. Bro. Austin Kail to Long Run days; Sister Mary McFee, third Mogadore, and Barton, a new man, second Kemery. Cert. 318. Nashville, Chat. 6 St. L. R. R., Div. 57. P. & M. Division — Death took from our midst on January 1st Bro. Thomas N. Wallace, a man of splendid character and high ideals; a loyal husband, father and friend, and a worthy member of the O. R. T. The Order in its remembrance of him placed a beautiful floral design and we extend to the bereaved relatives our heartfelt sympathy. ' Mrs. Wallace, his wife, and family desire to thank the members for their kindness and the beautiful flowers presented at the time of Bro. Wallace’s death. Bro. Sergerson, who relieved Bro. Nor- wood at Mercer & few days, also relieved Bro. Pipkin, who gave up Hazel for the extra board, and relieved Bro. H. L. Beal, who went to "UP." but didn’t like It Bro. Crews has given up Oakdale and also gone on extra list. Bro. Gordon, first ticket seller Jackson, was relieved several weeks by Bro. Free- land, second there, relieved by Bro. Odell. Bro. Penticost, who relieved Bro. Lyon, agent Eads, a few days, later relieving Bro. Lawson, third Lexington, while he relieved Bro. Arnold and then relieved Bro. Russell at Murray a few days. We extend our sympathy to Bro. Jeffrey, called to Elva on account death of his sis- ter, Mrs. Pollard, January 2nd. Bro. Owen, who went to second Memphis a few days, later relieved Bro. R. J. Hall, while recovering from a fall which injured his knee. Bro. Hoffman of the B. & N. W., was re- cently married, the ceremony being per- formed on the train just over the state line. Bro. Batten, who relieved Bro. Moore when he went to second Paris a few days, also relieved Bro. Goener, agent Denmark, several days. Bro. H. Jones, of Benton, visited his parents at Puryear Sunday recently and Bro. Brackin spent several days at Buena Vista. Bro. Merwln, second Whiteville, and Bro. Smith, Oakland, were recent Jackson vis- itors. Local Chairman Arnold was in Nashville recently looking after our affairs. Cert. 888. Digitized by VjOOQle

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258 The Railroad Telegrapher. Louisville & Nashville R. R.» Dlv. 58. Bender son Division— We were grieved to learn of the death of Bro. Whit Prather, the early part of Jan uary, at his home in Madisonville, of pneu* monla, after a week’s illness. He had been employed on this division about 17 years and on first Atkinson since that office opened. The death of this brother emphasizes the need oft a flower fund, and Local Chairman Jones is now canvassing the membership on the proposition. Only a nominal sum will be asked each member. With the fund once established we will be in a position to take care of any emergency. Bro. Rae is relieving Bro. Francis, Morton, on sick list. Sister Miss Mary Dixon, former clerk in the chief dispatcher's office, has returned to Henderson freight ofllce as clerk-operator. H. L. Eades and Jasper Matthews are also new members. Don’t forget February 29th is the last day of grace. J. N. J., Cert. 610. Louisville Division — It is now Bros. Henry Kemper, Worthville, and Charles E. Oneal of Camden. General Chairman Bryant and Local Chairman Renaker, in Louisville recently settling claims for overtime and back pay, were very successful. Bro. Charles E. Oneal has our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of his six months' old baby. Bro. D. W. Renaker spent two weeks in Orlando, Fla., selling his grove, and fishing. Sister Merritt of “NY” is off on account of sickness, Bro. Ward relieving. Bro. Smith, Elliston, also on sick list, Bro. Youell relieving. Bro. Pennell, Lexington passenger station, relieved a few days by Bro. Farris. Bro. Silcox relieved Bro. J. O. Archer, second trick dispatcher Lexington branch, on his honeymoon. Congratulations. Bro. H. E. Rucker of “MN” Tower re- lieved a few days by Bro. Griffith of “TJ” Tower. Bro. Minor, third Sparta, was ofT several days owing to the illness of his wife. W. E. J., Cert. 807. Cumberland Division — I am indebted to Bros. Bays and Minton, Hubbard Springs, for these South End notes : Bro. L. G. Minton displaced J. K. Law- son at Hubbard Springs, who went to Bax- ter first. Billie Mitchell is back on first Stoney Fork Junction after being out a few days on account of the miners' strike. Bro. John S. Osborne, third trick copyest dispatcher's office Middlesboro, is being con- gratulated on his recent marriage. We all deplore the recent death of our old chief dispatcher, J. B. Hoover. He let me learn telegraphy here at Gray fourteen years ago and his death makes me very sad, but we will all come to “80” some time sooner or later. E. D.. Box 97, Gray, Ky., Cert 618. Kentucky Division — Snider opened to three tricks again. Bro. C. R. Maines Is on the Carlisle job. Bro. H. S, Pergrem was off several days moving, Bro. Branaman during holidays, and Bro. Stickrod a few days. Bro. T. J. Singleton relieved Bro. A W. Bourne several days on account of death of relative. I was off myself several days on account of my little daughter being very ill with pneumonia. Bro. J. R. White was off few days, also Bro. Mullins, latter on account of illness of relative. Bro. R. B. Pregrem is very ill with typhoid. Bra J. C. Cain has gone to Florida for sixty days. Keep after the “non” next to you untfl he signs up. Remember, “No card , no favors” and few friends. J. B. P., Cert 786. Memphis Line — Brothers handling express in connection with railroad work assume a great deal of responsibility to earn $10.00 or $16.00 com- mission with a guarantee of only $7.60 per month. What will that buy when all the necessities of life have advanced over dou- ble? The express people gave all their sal- aried force an increase in wages and us nothing, simply because we have not asked for our Just rights. Cebt. 1106. Nashville , N. & D, and N. F. & 8. Divisions — Bro. Whitt and wife of Ewells spent a few days recently in New Orleans with Mrs. Whitt’s people. Bro. Stutts, of 8t Joseph, will receive about $800 back time on account of the O. R. T. having that station included in the agreement. Our local chairman is handling several cases on the division adjusting salaries or certain positions. Local Chairman Kennedy is preparing to line up the station agents in our organisa- tion, as the agents are taken care of same as the operators. Main Stem, Second Division ~- Bro. Roney, of Gallatin, on sick list Bro. Hunter relieving; also Bro. Stacy, Portland, Bro. McWhirter relieving. BrO. Brown, of Memphis Junction has returned to work ater a long spell of sickness. M. F. W., Cert. 3281. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railkoad Telegrapher. 259 .Veto Orleans and Mobile Division — Local Cnairman Green is making arrange- ments for a monster meeting to be held at Biloxi and we are expecting Tardy and Craig to prepare a good time for us all. Bro. McDonald was recently married in New Orleans to a young lady from Tucson, Arit; Bro. Yarborough to one at Dunbar, La., and Bro. Pfleger to one from Irvington, Ala. Congratulations and best wishes to the newlyweds. Sister M. E. Whistler relieved Bro. Mc- Donald at Kreole agency, and Bro. Hayes relieved Bro. Yarborough at Dunbar agency while they were on their honeymoon. Bro. Nioovich is now ticket clerk under Bro. Tardy at Biloxi. Bro. Rayne, formerly a radio man, on “MO” second, and Sister Riviere on Rlgolets first. We are glad to note the improvement of Sister Dodge, off several weeks owing to an injury to her right hand. Bro. Raymon 13 off on account of illness. We hope everybody had a Merry Christ- mas, will have a prosperous New Year and will not forget to pay the assessment on time this year. E. H. Tardy, Cert. 1964, Biloxi, Miss. Southern Railway, Div. 59. Mobile Division — To the Members : I wish, through the journal, to thank you for your liberal re- sponses to my appeal for assistance for Bro. J. E. Carden of Plantersvllle, who has un- dergone one of the most wonderful opera- tions known to surgery, being transformed from a stooping posture to a straight, up- right position, both hips having been cut in two. making two complete serviceable joints. He is now able to walk about the room on crutches and expects to soon resume his duties, walking without crutches like any other man aiter sixteen years spent in that stooping position with both hips motionless. Up to January 11th he had received about 1100. He had to borrow $500 on interest to pay hospital and drug bills and has lost about five months* time. The brothers who have not yet responded to this most worthy cause can send their contributions direct to his faithful little wife, Mrs. J. S. Carden, Plantenrville, Ala. Make it $5.00 apiece, boys, and those who have contributed less than that try and remit enough more to make it that figure. I wish to express my appreciation for the be&utiul Knight Templar charm which was presented to me for you through Bro. Bul- loch. It is a beauty and I will have it ap- propriately engraved as an ever reminder of yon, with the assurance that my very best efforts will contlnus in your behalf and the hope that the future will bring forth even better results than the past. Mn. J. L. Sealy and family desire to fhgnk all the members and other friends for their kindness and assistance, during the long illness and at the time of the death of Bro. J. L. Sealy, Cert. 1632. L. B. Coleman, L. C. Murphy Division — Bro. E. B. Freeman, agent Nantahala, who died suddenly while on duty Nov. 29th, came to this division from the Central of Georgia Railroad in 1910 as agent at Bryson and was elected local chairman in 1916 to fill the unexplred term of the late R. B. Gibson, serving for threo years. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family. Bro. J. M. Anderson, who succeeded Bro. Freeman, was succeeded as operator Waynes- ville by Bro. Crady, succeeded on Canton sec- ond by Bro. D. A. Mills. Sister Norine Gibson, agent Almond, re- lieved 90 days by Bro. A. D. Mills, second Canton, while on her honeymoon. We extend congratulations. Bro. Crawford relieved Bro. H. A. Cox, agent Hazelwood, detailed oy sickness of a relative while visiting in Eastern North Caro- lina. H. Gibson, Local Chairman. “GAf" Relay, Washington, D. C. — It is gratifying to know that we start the new year off 100 per cent strong. Labor organizations are at stake, although they are stronger today than ever before, and we must all pull together and keep that strength to solve the problems of our bright future. Don't forget to get that new 1920 card. All entitled to vote be sure and pay your poll taxes up promptly, go to the polls next November, cast your ballot for the candidates who favor labor. Young men entitled to vote register and pay your poll taxes. Bro. McCluen, recently resigned, is back with us again. Bro. Sergt. L. J. Irvin is attending law school this winter. Bra L. O Drumwright is president of the F. E. A. Club. Bro. Martin spent a week recently at his home in Smithfieid, N. C. We would like to hear from the other relay offices. Cert. 589. Southern — St. Louie Division — Third Hartwell Junction abolished, Bra Howard back to Hemp Ridge agency, Bro. Anderson, first Fourth avenue, and Bro. Rod- man, agent Waddy, on sick list, former re- lieved by Bro. Doyle, latter by Bra Temple Bro. Boggess, who was relieved while at- tending court by Bro. Youchem, has gone South for ninety days, relieved by Bro. Schuler, previously relieving Bro. Rhodes, agent Versailles, a few dayB. Bro. Sims, agent Crandall, is also on ninety days* leave. CSBT. 544. Digitized by VjOOQle

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260 The Railroad Telegrapher. Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe, Div. 61 Relay Offices — Our items last month were mailed too late and are published with these notes for the February issue. All my spare time was taken up with other business connected with the Order and I was unable to get them in sooner. The items sent in last month constituted my last write-up, having been elected treasurer of the Topeka O. R. T. Club, and Bro. Par- ham, “RA,” being elected to succeed me as correspondent Those who have helped me in the past kindly send notes In the future to him at “GO.” It will be greatly appreciated by both of us. Thanking you all for help the past year. W. V. Clatbourn (D. Cert. 172.) Wellington, Kan. — Bro. R. E. Cowardin has returned from a trip to Kansas City. It is now Bro. Ambrose G. Fry, late night chief, and Bro. Fred Keys is up-to-date again ; Dulaney, who has been here some time, is still a non. Bro. Carson spent Christmas at his old home near Pella, Iowa, relieved a few days by Bro. Cobb, Waynoka. Winslow, Ariz. — Bro. Evans is back from a trip to his oil wells in Texas. Bro. Griggs, now on third trick, and wife on a three weeks’ trip to California, relieved by Bro. Galbraith from S. P., who also re- lieved Bros. Pearson and Archibald a week while they were in California. Los Angeles, Cal. — It is now Bros. Sweat, Redline and Barrett. No nons in that office and Just one delinquent, who is considering the matter. Assistant Local Chairman Beaumont and Bro. Lawhaun were both off a few days sick. Bro. Bemlder and family have returned from a trip East. They were enroute home once and were recalled to Ohio owing to the death of a brother. San Francisco, Cal.— It is now Bro. F. E. Redline, another old-timer. Topeka, Kan. — Bro. E. H. Brown has re- turned after several weeks’ absence. Bro. Edmlsten resumed December 1st after ninety days in California. Local Chairman Elliott is back after three months on schedule negotiations. Bro. Cowardin, of Wellington, and Bro. W. H. McDonald visited here a few days. Bro. W. U. Tate, United Press; Arkansas City, is now working here ; also Bro. T. C. Dawson, from the Eastern Division. Bra P. W. White resigned after working thirty days, and Bro. H. H. Sanner, N. Y. C.. trans- ferred to Albuquerque. Two tricks cut off, Bro. Owens takes sec- ond trick, new traffic Job. Bro. O. R. Trapp’s wife and son have re- turned from three weeks’ visit in Denver, and Bro. C. M. Lite and wife and the wife and daughter of Bro. I. E. Garver from Kansas City. Bro. Lile relieved Traffic Chief Bro. Ben Neill a few days while latter was moving. Bros. P. W. White of Chicago and C. R. Beckwith of Division 126 and J. W. Wither- spoon are new men here. Bro. Beckwith will transfer to 61 soon. It is now Bro. A. W. Claytor. Apprentice Pauline E. Mellinger trans- ferred to Slaton Division as operator. The brothers there will have no trouble securing her application. Bro. Sledge from La Junta and Bro. J. C. Schroeder. who has been East two weeks on business, both transferred from the grand. Newton, Kan. — Bro. J. E. Good spent the holidays at home. Williford, Ark., with his father and mother, it being seven years since making them a visit. Bro. Joe Merrow Just returned from a visit in Oklahoma. Bro. S. B. Rohrer has been, helping Miss Gertrude Melick, of Beaver, Iowa, who has been visiting Mrs. M. A. Carpenter since Jan- uary 1st Wedding cigars probably In the near future. Bro. V. L. Adair from Sand Creek is the recent addition to the force. LaJunta, Colo. — Bro. W. P. Terry', night chief, relieved several weeks by Turner. The coal strike made it necessary to put on two extras here temporarily, Bro. Sledge, Grand Division, and Bro. Knight, Division 130, latter transferred to 61. About the only line in which the coal strike made business good was in the relay telegraph department. Shopton, Iowa — New dynamos are being in- stalled and the office rearranged, which will improve working conditions here, a good in- dication of better things coming to us right along. The company is treating the boys pretty nice these days. Chicago, 111. — Elsey and Lewis on third trick have, caught religion arid withdrawn from the O. R. T.. and Bro. Steinhart is now practicing dentistry. Bro. W. D. Fore from the Postal “doable header” has both O. R. T. and C. T. U. cards. Second Chief Chas. McClure again paid up, and Gathman, back from the war, boon will be. Arkansas City, Ark. — Bro. Thompson visited folks in Great Bend several days, and Bro. Porter in Topeka. Bro. Jaoobe flivvered to Wichita over Sunday, and Bro. Ellis took in the movies in Oklahoma City. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 261 Bra S. M. Day transferred to Cleburne, and Bros. Ira Hensey and Wm. Alfrey, Oklahoma Division, to this office. Amarillo, Tex. — Bro. McCauley on sick list and we are working short. Sister Gus- sie Redding, phone operator, is being re- lieved by Miss Willie Bedding, messenger. ' We ar eworking nine operators and three phonevs, besides the chiefs. All solid except Night Chief Overly. Bro. G. Shingler, resigned, got as far as Denver and returned. Apprentice Phoner Bra Spann is now a regular “ Morse r” oper- ator. F. E. Parham, “RA," Cert. 167. Missouri Division — We could not get the write-up' or the meeting held in Marceline, Mo., the evening of December 23rd, to St. Louis in time for January Journal. Those who could have come and did not certainly missed a great treat. Another trick has been opened at Nim- rod and Paleman by former operators Mrs. M. V. and Mrs. S. G. Pennington, the wives of the first trick brothers there, and these ladies have already made their appli- cations. Bro. Cherry Summers has returned to the service. - Bro. F. H. Shulte, “MQ” Marceline, has moved into the new home he bought there. We regret to record the recent death of General Superintendent Raymond, of Tope- ka, Kan., and extend our sympathy to Mrs. Raymond and family. O. J. Foster, Cert. 810. Eastern Division — We have been very fortunate in securing for our local chairman, Bro. John A. Myers, *NR" Emporia office. He has assistants appointed to cover every part of the divi- sion. Show the nons what the O. R. T. has •lone for them in securing better working conditions and higher rates of pay. We are all very sorry to learn of the death of Assistant General Manager .Ray- mond and extend our sympathy to the be- reaved ones. Helpers or assistant agents’ positions in- cluded in our schedule, Williamsburg, Grid- ley. Burlington, Bonner Springs, Lansing. Meriden, Rock Creek, Nortonvilie, Lyndon, Olivet, Welda and Baldwin. Helpers or as- •istent agents have been included in our schedule and most of the boys on these jobs have lined up. Cert. 899, Ottawa, Kan. S or them Division — Bro. H. I>. Clark, *‘NE” relay, bid in third East Dallas. Agent Daniels, Duncanville, is on second there. We are glad to welcome Bro. S&ppenfield at Berwyn, and Bros. Schew and Hurd, sec- ond and third Sanger. We are pleased to note how quickly the promoted apprentices take out up-to-date cards. In most every case they Join first pay day — all union men, worthy to be called brother, putting to shame the old heads still holding out. •Bro. O. Menefee, second “FT'' Ft. Worth, is in Temple hospital, to be operated on. A two-trick job was recently opened up at North Ft. Worth. Hours, 3 p. m. to 6 a. m. Let us get the delinquent list down to a minimum by sending in our dues and insur- ance assessments immediately on receipt of the notice or the first pay day after, and see that others in the office with, or mem- bers near us do likewise. This will do away with a lot of unnecessary work and tne waste of our, money spent on postage and stationery sending out duplicate notices and requests to remit. We should make a su- preme efTort to put this little over a year old division uon the map ” solid 100 per cent strong. Cert. 1148. Panhandle Division — Bro. Carson reports our division 100 per cent strong. Let’s keep our dues paid up and line the new ones up promptly. Bro. Kurtz has returned to Wellington from his honeymoon. Bro. Southwick, Alva, was also recently married. Bro. Roach, agent Mayfield, has resumed duty after three months in California, re- lieved by Bro. Hamilton, relieved on second by Bro. Puckett. Thanks to Bro. Fry for a good bunch of items. All concerned send all the news pos- sible, so we can have a good write-up every month. f “S,” “NK,” Cert 987. Oklahoma Division- Agent Woods, Mehan, who accidentally shot himself through the hand, was off sev- eral weeks. New members : Johnson, Yale, and Brown, Sparks. Showing Bro. R. A. Johnson, agent Perry, as a non on a recent circular, was an error. He was one of the first to join. Bros. Hinsey and Alfrey are now in "DX" Arkansas City Relay. On account of having to be away from town so much, Bro. O’Connor has resigned and turned the office of local chairman over to Bro. F. Alsup of Guthrie. Bro. O’Connor will assist him as much as possible and take the same interest as heretofore. Bro. McLaughlin, agent Lovell, was re- lieved ten days by Bro. Southern. Digitized by tjOOQle

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262 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bra Mendenhall is now agent Hillsdale* vice Bro. K&mseyer, who bid In North Yards. Bro. Arnett has returned to Kipley. C. L. Braxton, Cert 2788, Agent Nash, Okla. Slaton Division — Our failure in not having any write-ufi re- cently was due to the brothers not sending me any notes, and those sent in for January arrived in St Louis one day too late. They are published herewith. Bro. J. A. Yound, who underwent a serious operation in Lubbock Sanitarium, November 18th, visited his father in Oklahoma City while recuperating. Mrs. Farmer, wife of W. L. Farmer, Slaton, also operated on at Lubbock, has recovered. Bro. Shelton, who bid in Muleshoe agency, after looking the situation over bid back his former position at Crosbyton. Bro. A. N. Hart who resigned Lorenzo agency, is now relieving on second Lubbock. A ticket clerk has been placed there and a cashier at Ralls. Bro. and Sister Carroll were off ten days ; former relieved by Miss Mellinger, now re- lieving Bro. Moore, second Southland, re- signed. Let's see that she gets a card. Bro. C. C. Miller of Lockney was called to the bedside of his uncle at Deming, N. M., and Bro. Goodson of Lamesa, recently mar- ried, to see his father at Bay City, both being seriously ill. Bro. McBride, relief agent, is now general relief agent Gulf Coast Lines at Temple. New positions created and bulletined in January are : Second Tulia, Happy Kress and Halecenter. Thanks to Bro. Pedigo and Sister Martin for notes. Everyone should send in their items by the 16th of the month. If you all will assist me we will have a good write-up every month. “CD,” Cert 549. Rio Grande Division — Our division is now well above the 90 per cent mark. Local Chairman Lewis is now getting in some of the hardest “nons.” Only five left and one delinquent left Keep after them and make it 100 per cent Sister Mary Holt has taken new second Los Lunas, N. M., relieved by Mrs. Fleecy Swartzman at Barr staff office. Bro. G. W. Cunningham, gone to second Canutilla, Texas, again, made a telegraph office, is having trouble securing board. Bro. T. E. Regan, third Engle, N. M., goes to Latuna second, just opened, and Bro. J. L. Monahan to third Isleta, N. M. Deming freight house closed as a tele- graph office. Bro. W. H. Reynolds relieved Bro. Lawrence, passenger station Deming, thirty days. Bro. Mowry, second Deming passenger station, displaced by a Southern Pacific operator, Bro. Redmond, is off on leave. CERT. 760. Arizona Division — Bro. Blake, former correspondent has left the service. I have volunteered to handle the write-up. Any news or suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Bro. Armstrong, second Yucca, called to Los Angeles, account his father’s death, re- lieved by Bro. Whitemore. Sister Thornburg sick, Bro. T. taking her to Los Angeles. Wulpal first and second closed three days and Sister Trinkle now on second there,, relieved at Lavic by Sis- ter Evans. Bro. Aitkin relieved Barrington, third Peach Springs, and Sister Briggs, second Crosier, was off fifteen days during Xmas holidays. Operator P. W. Brady is doing extra work at "BA.” He comes from the D. 4 R. G. Sister Turk resumed at Fenner January 18th. Bro. Rushton, Kingman, sick. Boys doubling January 16th. Bro. Howell has resigned after nine years service and bought a ranch at Fresno. We all wish him success. Bro. Brown was a recent Los Angeles vis- itor. Bro. Hadaway bid in third Peach Springs extra Ford at Yampal, succeeding him on third Goffs. R. A. Vawtxr, Cert 8108. Los Angeles Division — We will always feel very grateful to Lo- cal Chairman Meador of the Southern Pa- cific, who canvassed the Coast Lines, se- curing 15 agents, 6 operators, one cashier- operator and one towerman as new members. Through his efforts we practically reached our 100 per cent goal, setting a milestone for Division 61. Bra Arnett, Camp Kearny, has “One of Henry's Best" It was probably taking care of it that caused him to forget about that up-to-date card. Bro. Evans also forgot it. but has now an up-to-date again. Wm. P. Jbnsbn, Cert. 428. “Queen & Crescent" North, Div. 62. C. N. O. & T. P. Division— Gen. Chairman Hines completed negotia- tions for the new schedule with Mr. Loyall. Aug. 14, and signed them up. He was called back to Mr. Loyall's office In Washington and notified that when signed up Mr. Loyall did not know that he was a trick dispatcher and the management could not see the pro- priety of trick train dispatcher (whom they Digitized by Googk

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Thb Railroad Telegrapher. ?63 bad classed as Division Officer) making a wage scale for the Telegraphers. As our constitution covers train dispatchers and is the only organisation authorized to do so, and many railroads now include their train dispatchers in the Telegraphers’ contract, therefore Bro. Hines al vised the management that he had been elected to represent the Telegraphers by the men and generar com- mittee and any change would be made by them. The general committee was called to- gether Oct 9 by Bro. Hines, the general chairman, and it was unanimously decided that there was no cause for a change in the personnel of the general chairman, as the constitution covers train dispatchers, but the management refused to print and send out the new schedule on account of its con- tention to the contrary. The matter was then turned over to the organization for handling with the result that the schedule is now being printed and will soon be dis- tributed. Placing General Chairman Hines on a sal- ary and raising the semi-annual dues to |14 in order to secure the money to pay it was brought before a recent series of meetings and every member present favored the plan, but up to this time no vote has been taken. We need a paid chairman and should have him. All the other Brotherhoods have one and there Is work enough to keep him busy all the time. We are sorry to report the recent deaths of Bros. Weaver and Garner, the rormer the oldest man in the service on this road, en- tering it in 1888. He was a continuous member of the O. R. T. for over 25 years. The bereaved relatives have the sympathy of the entire membership, resolutions to that effect having been drawn up and rorwarded to each of them. Csbt. 88. Ags Division — Brother and Sister F. C. Little of Tusca- loosa who have been 111 for some time, are recovering and will soon be able to resume their duties. Bro. Clay Collins of Collinsville is in a hospital having his eye treated. Cbrt. 194. Great Northern Ry., Div. 70. Breckenridge Division — I wish to thank everyone who helped the committee and myself in making our first annual dance at Breckenridge on January 1st such a great success. The total receipts were $817.80, expenditures $207.68, leaving a balance on hand of $110.22, which has been deposited in the Breckenridge National Bank of Breckenridge, Minn., credited to the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, Brecken- ridge Division, to be used for various things such as flowers, etc. The co-operation we received from the division officers of the railroad deserves equal co-operation on our part, the interest they took in the affair showing that a bet- ter feeling exists between employer and employe than some of us suspected. Bro. Olsen from St Paul was witn us and during conversation between the numbers of the program, filled us full of optimism In regard tp the great interest all the brothers and sisters are taking in the work of the order. L. B. Sapp, Cert 811, Local Chairman. Breckenridge Division Notes— Bro. Nypower was obliged to resign at Hannaford on account of inability to use his right hand, due to injury by being shot in his arm while in action at Dunklrque, France. Bro. A. P. Anderson, Karlsruhe, injured his foot while unloading a gas tank. Bro. Tennis Breckenridge relieved a few days by Sister Kirtz. Sister Grace Haley and Mrs. M. J. Haley, mother of Bro. Haley, and Bro. 25. A. Ander- son, New Rockford, were all sick several days. Bro. Carol in, formerly of Breckenridge yard, was in Breckenridge recently. While here Mrs. Carolln died. The Division ex- tends deepest sympathy to Bro. Carolln and family. Bro. Carolln is now on the Mil- waukee Coast Division. Sister Wilson has resigned, it is now Sta- ter Ellingson at Kindred, Stater Melba Dono- hue at Sutton, and Bro. EX A. Bowler at Mc- Ville. Casselton, Including tower, solid ex- cept agent. Keep after him, brothers. Also the few nons on the division. Don’t wait for your local chairman to do it all. Bro. Lohman is back at Hamberg from his wedding trip. He and Bro. Haley re- ceived a Joint message of congratulations from the brothers and sisters on the line. The wife of Bro. Lemke at Finley under- went an operation recently. A. EX Shaw, Cert. 815. Northern Division— Sister G. M. Brandenburg was off five days taking her mother to Winnipeg for an operation. Bro. W. C. Buckley spent the holiday sea- son with his parents at Crookston. Bro. H. F. Wickner, Angus, is being re- lieved by Sister Bernice Scott. J. T. Majbrss, Cert. 829, Local Chairman. Dakota Division — Fisher, Emerado and Niagara foners dis- continued. Miss Pangburn, second Fisher, to extra list Digitized by VjOOQle

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264 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Carey, GF relay office, spent the holidays with his parents at Wilmont, Minn. Bro. Quiring, Sabin, baching while his family was visiting, says it’s no fun. Bro. Bjelde bumped Stewart from "S" Grand Forks relay, who returned to his home at Thief Biver Falls. Great Northern Ry., Dakota Division — Congratulations and best wishet to Bro. Keck, Edinburg. The relay managers, traffic chiefs, wire chiefs and late relay operators have re* ceived their back pay. "Woodib," Cert 748. Fergus Division — I wish to sincerely thank the brothers and sisters who contributed to the New Year’s fund presented to me, together with a letter of appreciation. It would be impossible to write each one of you, as my time is nearly all taken up as it is. The fact that you appreciate what I am trying to do for you, furnishes me with a further incentive to do my very best and I assure you that no task will be too great for me to undertake. There are bound to be differences of opinion be- cause we do not all think alike. Remem- ber that your grievance must be a just one or I cannot handle it I need your co-oper- ation in order to be well organized and eliminate the nons by the end of this year, and hope you will be glad to render this service at all times. O. P. Knedel, Local Chairman. Spokane Division — Business has almost doubled the past month, new offices opened and others usual- ly closed first of the year kept open. If any of you have neglected to send in your dues, pay up at once. After March 1st you will be unfinanclaL We are ap- proaching the most critical period with the roads turning back to private ownership March 1st Unless we stand solid we haven’t a chance. Never before has there been such a need of organization. Every member should be up to date and no time lost in lining up all the operators and phoners on this division still outside the order. Re- member, in union there is strength, and we need all we can muster if we have to fight a decrease in wages. When you copy messages or bulletins on positions open please place them where all concerned can read them. Now, brothers. Remember, ask that new man how he stands and get him lined up by all means, for "Beware the ides of March." "Dintt Moore," Cert 941. First District — Milan has been made a helper station, and three tricks. See that the new men who get these jobs carry up-to-date cards. Cbbt. 117. Second and Third Districts— Our big Mallets have been replaced with the Mikado class engines which cannot han- dle as many cars as the former, making it necessary to have more trains, and a ten new positions, including Marlin second and third have been 'opened. / Let’s see that they are all filled with good card men. Get after the nons, boys, our worst enemies. "Jerht.” Havre Division — It is rumored that Sister Speak, second Chester, who left in November for Nebras- ka, is to be married to a returned soldier. Bro. McAllister, agent Virgelle, seriously ill with pneumonia, was taken to Deacon- ess Hospital, Great Falls, January 20th. We all hope for a speedy recovery. Bro. Rich, agent Collins, bumped by D. A Requam. a returned soldier, after thirty days’ leave bumped Bro. Baker, agent La- redo. to first Conrad. Bro. Jones, agent Floweree, spent three weeks during the holidays with his folks in Russell, Minn., relieved by Soon to Be “BROTHER” Doran from Shelby. Please don’t forget that February 29th Is the last day to pay and remain in good standing. Don’t put this important matter off another moment. Cert. 1300. Cascade Division — Mrs. Willard, mother of Bro. B. T. Wil- lard, Stanwood, died on January 16th. Our bereaved brother has the heartfelt sym pathy of the members of this division. Local Chairman Longfellow is now agent at White Rock, B. C., and Bro. Griffin at Abbottsford, B. C. Bro. Campbell, relieved thirty days by Bro. Rowan and Bro. Phillips a few days by Bro. Van Dyke who later relieved Bro. Burroughs relieving Bro. Tilm&n on account of sickness, also taken sick. Bro. Brad shaw, several days ago having scalded hie. hand on a brew pipe relieved by Sister Hoi- lenshaus. Bro. Fisher resigned, relieved by Bra Locke. Bro. Clinton, mayor and chief of police, attending court a few days, relieved by Bro. Barnett. Bro. Merklin is being congratulated over the arrival of a Christmas boy. Let's remit Bro. Simpson, secretary of our local, funds for 6 months or a year in 11& of only sending him the ten cents a month, and save him the trouble and postage ex- pense of writing us to remit. This fund is Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 265 to pay rentals, floral offerings, local ex- penses, etc. A number have already paid up for a year and some for two years. Members on the hill, please send me the news as I cannot keep in touch with every office. "X." Cert 481. Kalitpell Division — Five new members secured during the peat thirty days. Keep after the nons. A few left, brothers and sisters, and we will soon "go over the top." Remember! “No card, no favors” Baynes, B. C., closed several years, is open again owing to an increase in the lum- ber industry. Lubec opened December 1st with Mildred Swanberg on first. Sister Enid Newlon on second and Bro. ‘ Dixon on third. It will remain open if the conductors will quit taking their own orders. Bro. Armstrong, third Fielding, spent sev- eral days in Spokane recently. Bro. Carberry and wife spent the holidays with their daughter, Margaret, attending school at Seattle, and Sister Elsi'e Smith was relieved a few days at Paola by Sister Esther Weeks. Bister Lillian Wilson, Blackfoot, was off several weeks owing to the death of her sont The sister has our heartfelt sympa- thy in her sad bereavement Sister Sadie Penaake, third Coram, re- lieved by Mrs. Mattie (Fisher) Davis is off for thirty days to California. Bister Acton, second Jennings, was visited on Xmas by Bro. W. T. Acton, now on the N. p. 8ister Code Williams is back on second Java after a visit with her parents in Port- land. Bro. Ray Baenan relieving and Bro. Green has returned to Columbia Falls after six weeks layoff. Sister Clara Sans tad is now cashier at Eureka. O. F.. Cert 1438. Minn. & St Louis R. R., Dlv. 71. Central ft Western Division — Five new members secured last month, Bro. E. J. Dec j mar, with the C. M. ft St. P. at Montgomery as cashier, is back with ns again as clerk there vice Bro. Schlesky, with the O. N. at Yiborg, Minn. Sister Leorna Goeden, relieved by Bro. W. H. Goeden's wife, on one of the tower tricks at Monterey, owing to poor health. Bro. Ed Factor, first New Prague, is on ninety days* leave, also Bro. Halverson, agent Conde, latter relieved by Bro. R. J. Hoeia Bro. Boyle, agent Paton, was a recent Minneapolis visitor. Don’t forget to advise your local chairman °f your views in regard to putting on a traveling chairman. The brothers unite in extending their heartfelt sympathy to Bro. Pankhurst at Montgomery in the loss of his wife. Bro. L. E. Chambard’s wife, ill the past two months, was worse and her recovery considered doubtful last account Cert. 451. Eastern Division — Brother Guggerty is working a trick in the dispatcher’s office oh 90 days’ vacation. Watertown relieved on Oskaloosa third by Bro. Jacobs, third Abbott, relieved by Mrs. C. O. Davis. Lacey and Hermon have been opened up as straight telegraph offices. Bro. O. H. Leary, agent Ollie, called to New Sharon, owing to the death of his mother-in-law, has our sympathy. Bro. Landfear, agent Wright has re- turned from a visit Blast, relieved by Bro. Mahoney. W. C. McLxn, L. C., Richland, la. Southern. Pacific Ry., Atlantic Div. 72. La. Lines Division — If you have not paid your dues remit at once. February 29th is last day of grace. If there is any non working in your office, or near you line him up before the roads go back to private ownership. Bro. McIntyre at Midland is making out fine with his potato patch. Bro. Eunice LeBouef, at Lake Charles was off several days with sore eyes. The Co-Operative Store, organized by the R. R. men at Lafayette, started business January 1st. A good way to fight the high cost of living. Co-operation in anything means success. Bro. Fincher Marmentau was off a few days recently. Boudreaux a new man. Sister Roy is still unable to work on ac- count of eye trouble. Bros. W. S. Long and E. P. Smith went to "FY" Lafayette first and second during the absence of Bro. Boutte and Sister Roy. Bro. Long is dispatching owing to the busy season. Help him all you can to make good. I hope 1920 will prove a happy and pros- perous year for our organization and all of us. G. J. Fanout ,Cert 616. Lafayette, La. Chicago & Northwestern, urv. 76. Eastern Division — I was out in the Western states all dur- ing the past summer for my health. Each month when I got The Telegrapher the first thing I looked for was news from the Eastern Division. In all that time there was not one write-up and I made a resolu- tion then that when I got back I was going to have a write-up each month. Digitized by Google

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266 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Schimelhhenig. while on third O’Neill, wrote Bra Thomas, Chicago, and also A. P. Larson at Norfolk in regard to the transfer of the U. S. mail at that place, which has always been performed by tne operator. This was taken up with Supt Beck and Bra Sauers at O’Neill was given authority to have the dray handle It. Here’s another case where the O. R. T. brought home the bacon. Bro. Smith, agent at Creston, on a forced vacation, owing to sickness, went to Fre- mont and had his tonsils removed, relieved by Bra Davison. Bro. A. J. Kelly received authority for a day operator at Burke, S. D. Operator Westerman secured the position. Bra C. M. Wursbacher, agent West Point, relieved a few days by Petersen of third there, whose wife Is dangerously ill with diphtheria. Bro. Docikal, first .Stanton, relieved for the holidays by Nicholas, an old timer. Bro. Earl M. Hays, “X” ofllce, promoted to train dispatcher at Casper, is getting along fine. Bro. Arthur Larson, extra in “X” for several months, has also been pro- moted to train dispatcher at Casper. Glad to see him get it. Bra Oscar Stucker is back at “X” from ten days’ holiday vacation. Bro. C. M. Morse, promoted from extra to third regu- lar at "X," we are afraid will soon be over- taken by MDan Cupid.” Bro. 8. H. Crouse, third "X,” bid in third Arlington. A fine fellow whom we hate to see go. C. H. Shively, working during the stock season at Long Pine, is now relieving in **X.” Bro. Janovy, ”JY.” Battle Creek, visited old time friends in Bassett recently. Bro. John Kraska, second Winner, goes to Linwood shortly. Bro. Wolfe, third West Endlaying, was off a few days recently. C. J. Smith, Cert. 2746. Inman, Neb. Eastern Division Notes — West End office recently converted from a telephone to a telegraph office created three more Jobs, now being held by Bros. M. D. Anderson, F. M. Willard and G. W. Wolfa respectively. We hope to see all these for- mer telephone stations converted and com- petent, dependable men placed in them. Bro. E. V. Ockerman has been relieving G. W. Hall for several months on the car job. We will be glad to have news from any of the brothers. Cert. 2724. Minnesota Division— Sister Lemay, second Dodge Center, was off a few days first of January. Sister DeGroat is back on third Janes- ville after several weeks' service at various points on the division. Bro. J. J. PresBnall relieved Bro. Maynard, Eagle Lake second, while latter filled in at Rochester. Bra C. M. Keefe is on Mankato third, which will be abandoned about March 1st Bra Letherman, second Mankato, was oft a few day? recently. Dispatcher Cutler is back on first East End Winona after several weeks* illness. Bro. Noble relieving Bro. Sawyer, Meriden Agency, went to Nicollet second on his re- turn. Bro. T. C. Ferris, Redwood Falls, has gone to the cities t e be treated for rheumatism. Bro. C. C. Hutchins, Janesville, back from his wedding trip through northern Minneso- ta and the Dakotas, is receiving the con- gratulations of his many friends. Don’t fail to pay your 1920 dues before the time limit expires for the semi-annual period February 29th and back up our hard working and efficient representatives by a 100 per cent financial as well as your moral support. Cert. 178. Northern Iowa Division — Bro. W. R. Randolph has returned to third, Webster City, after a visit with home folks in Kentucky and Southern citiea Bra Sawyer, first Hawarden, on sick list, is be- ing relieved by Bro. S. R. Brown from Lau- rens. This is the first write-up we have had for some time. If you brothers will drop me a few lines each month I will send them in. F. G. CRbach, Cert 7S4, Webster City, la. Madison Division- Through the efforts of the O. R. T. Bra H. W. Brown, agent Shennington, reports that he received satisfactory adjustment for meeting No. 403 and handling express after his call was eliminated and before the ex- press business was discontinued at his of- fice. Bro. C. D. Tillema, Chase Yard third, is being congratulated on his recent marriage. A successful meeting was held jointly with the Wisconsin and LaJkeshore Divisions at Milwaukee January 10th. Morning and evening sessions were largely attended. Ad- dresses were made by First Vice-President Brown, General Chairman Thomas and Gen- eral Chairman High of the Santa Fe Local Chairman J. M. Jenks relieved on Dalton second by Bro. H. C. Atkinson, while attending meeting. On account of Illness. Charles Kramer, South Beaver Dam second, was relieved by Bro. A. J. Wlsehart. Bro. D. C. Babcock was off several days recently. While off a few days Bro. J. A. Knca, Oxford third, relieved by Fenner, a new man who later relieved Sister Louise Voltl on Necedah third. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 267 Bro. D. J. Kramer, Wyeville tower third, resigned, relieved by Bro. E. L. Stout. Bra L. C. Muteness, Wyeville Yard third, relieved several weeks by Opr. M. H. Hen- drickson. While working: extra dispatcher several dap, Bro. R. C. Yahnke relieved on Adams Yard first by Bro. H. A. Ware, who later resumed Wyeville Yards second after an extended leave. Tower "MX" Madison was recently de- stroyed by Are and plant is now operated by hand switches. Bro. B. R. Alford, tower “SY” third, vis- ited his wife and parents at Pardeeville re- cently. Bro. H. A. Ware, on Adams side wire, sev- eral days, relieved by Bro. Harry Burstein, who bid in the job pending: the return of Bro. W. C. Hintz, now acting: extra dis- patcher. Bro. F. J. Wagner, agent Klevenville, was a recent Madison visitor. On account having been transferred please address future news items and communica- tions to A R. Sorenson, Reedsburg, Wis. Ashland Division — Bro. E. R. Schotte, Crandon agency, re- signed, succeeded by Bro. J. F. Honzlk, first Wakefield. Ringle nights opened by Bro. J. N. Bacon, to care for heavy traffic on Wausau Branch, and Carson days by Bro. Jas,. Maher, to take < are of the log runs on that branch. Bro. F. E. Coleman to Hurley second, a new job for our schedule. Bro. H. B. Greene bumped Bro. M. L. Moriarity from third Mercer to third Sugar Bush, on the South End, vice Bro. J. M. Johnson, gone home. Bro. C. R. Kreiser went to Koepenlck nights, winter job, and Bro. W. J. Schille- raan to third Watersmeet, to take care of the log trains. Bro. W. S. Spargo relieving Bro. Theo. Kohl. Hurley agency, while laid up with a had foot sustained in an accident, later took second Wittenberg, vice Bro. H. Chesseman. “AS,” Cert. 1535. Wisconsin Division— Bro. Clark, Kenosha, a victim of the “flu” for several weeks, relieved by Bros. Odh and Creighton. Bro. Floyd Dixon, Waukegan, on the sick Bat, relieved by Bro. Hammond. Bro. Koeki, Waukegan, relieved several toys by Bros. Gardner and Wlthersteln. Latter later relieved. It is now Bro. W. H. Brockaway, Pala- te*. IU. Bro. J. A Masonic, agent Lake Forest. 111., oa jury duty a week, when Bro. Masonic received the sad news of his father's death in Brawerville, Minn., and left January 9th to attend the funeral. Bro. Earl Toops is now relief dispatcher. On January 11th we had one of the most interesting meetings we ever had In Mil- waukee. About 75 in attendance at the morning meeting, when we enjoyed an in- teresting speech by First Vice-President Brown; also one from General Chairman High of the Santa Fe. Our general chairman, Bro. Thomas, was there with his most welcome advice and in- structions to the men. A number of subjects were brought up and explained, to the pleas- ure of the men. Boys, please let me know all the news that happens, so we can have a nice write-up. Only two or three ever send me any news at all. J. O. Ricks, Cert 658. Peninsula Division — Bro. L. J. Fish, third Teach, Tower, dis- placed by Bro. I. R. Nelson, took up the case with the grievance committee and has been put back to work there without loss of time. Bro. I. R. Nelson put in his claim after his ten days’ option had expired, and should have displaced Bro. A. E. Barber, second “MI,” whose seniority dates back to April 15, 1919, through a recent setback. Bro. W. E. Erickson, side wire to relief dispatcher a few days, relieved by Bro. Ek- lund, relieved at Vulcan by Bro. A. L. An- derson, later to Saunders second. Recently disputes arose regarding holding sehiority rights on their own divisions by operators transferring to different divisions during the winter months. The general chairman advises that if they are not back working on their own divisions they will forfeit their rights. The brothers who have transferred temporarily better play the safe side. Quinnesec second eliminated, Bro. C. A. Hanson displacing Bro. F. F. Tagge. second Brampton. Bro. A. M. Brukardt, agent Loretto, a re- cent Norway caller, is now on a trip to De- troit Bro. F. J. Laveau, also “Kelly,” second Saunders, relieved Bro. W. Hartho, agent Pintoga, a few days. Bro. E. T. Johnson, first Norway, has invested his money in a house. Bro. O. T. Farner transferred to Lake- wood, Wis., Lake Shore Division, for the winter months. J. E. Ranger, Cert. 606. Denver & Sait Lake R. R., Div. 79. First District — Bro. Crawford, first Corona, and Bro. Maben, second Arrow, resigned, former re- lieved by Chambers, latter by Alsp&ugh. Digitized by Google

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268 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Maddox, first Arrow, on vacation, re- lieved by Smedley. Bro. McGann, third Tolland, bumped by Jones when Relief Dispatcher Beard re- turned to second Tabemash. General Chairman Wessell in Denver on committee work, relieved by Lynch, who was taken very sick, relieved by Bro. Wessell and he later by Bro. McGann. Keep after the few nons and that one de- linquent. Have application blanks ready for the new men when they arrive. Cert. 22. Second and Third Districts — Bro. J. R. Kinney bid in third Arrow, suc- ceeded at Mt. Harris agency by J. H. Camp- bell, cashier at Craig, who, with Agent Hay- den and Bro. Holder drew a nice sum of back pay for showing before 5 a. m. Bro. M. J. McGann, Division 49, relieved Bro. Lovett at McCoy a few days. Bro. Ed. Collier, second trick dispatcher Phippsburg, while getting his eyes treated, was relieved two weeks by Relief Dispatcher Baird. Sister Myers. Yarmony third, relieved two weeks by Lynch, a new man. Cert. 20. Texas & Pacific Ry., Div. 88. "NY” Relay , Fort Worth— General Chairman Abney on O. R. T. busi- ness relieved by Bro. C. W. Nichols, later by Bro. R. W. Nixon, Division 66. Cert. 632. Joint Track, T. C. and Fort Worth Diva.— Bro. J. L. Pope relieved L. N. Saye on Belles second a few days; Bro. W. C. Jen- nings to Belles third several nights owing to illness of third trick man. Bro. J. S. Wilson. Aubrey third, succeeds Bro. W. A. Barnett on Clarksville first; Mar- tin, who succeeded Bro. Wilson, resigned, relieved by Mrs. J. E. Flory. Bro. Wingo relieved Hambright on Whites- boro second, and Bro. Thompson, Division 22, relieved Sister Bock on St. L.-S. W. Crossing third. It is now Bro. W. R. Roberts at New Boston. R. L. Denton. West End, Fort Worth Division — Bro. Rlngwald, Cisco second, visiting in Fort Worth; Bro. Porter, Tiffin second, in Alabama, and Bro. McIntosh, Tremble first, on Rio Grande Division, latter relieved by Sister E. Sorensen. Bro. Russ Tucker, Strawn second, is now dispatching trains in Fort Worth. Bro. J. A. Stover relieved Bro. Sullivan, Mingus third, resigned. Brazos second recently opened by Bro. J. S. Whittington. Sister Sorenson is relieving Sister Bond on Olden first, and Bro. Bierly Is relieving Sister O’Reilly, Tremble second, a few days. Yours truly. Tremble third, traded into Pilot Point first during holidays. R. L. Denton, Cert 532. Rio Grande Division — Bro. T. P. Harrison, third Pecos City, re- lieved by Extra Wood a few days while visit- ing with homefolks. Bro. M. B. Pitzer was relieved a few weeks on a trip East by Bro. I. N. Jones, who went out at El Paso, Texas, during the W. U. strike. Bro. E. Murdock is relieving Bro. F. Robin- son, “BG” Big Spring, visiting homefolks in Colorado City. Bro. Caldwell, Colorado third, bid in Clyde second. Bro. John Carey, relieving City Ticket Agent Lelghty at Abilene on account of sick- ness, relieved on second by Bro. Frame. Bro. Hamilton, relieved on account of sick- ness by Local Chairman Jones, relieved on Sweetwater second by Bro. Cush from third there. Boys, send your notes to me, Box 77, Monahans, Texas. J. B. Jarrell, Cert. 797. Eastern Division — Bro. Barbier, agent Hawkins, spent Christ- mas with his folks at White Castle, La., re- lieved by Bro. Dodd. Bro. Skinnell, first Hoard, was off several days; Bro. Ray, third there, relieved Bro. Hoeft, first Mineola. a few days. Bro. Speer, Big Sandy, prospecting around Hawkins leasing land, relieved several days by Bro. Glsler, who also relieved Walker, third Hawkins, a while. We are all glad to see Bro. Perrior back at Gladewater. If you have not paid your dues for 1926 take out an annual then you won’t be both* ered about getting another card next June. We all can do this if we only try, and re- member February' 29th is the last day to pay up. A. L. B., Cert. $70. Louisiana Division West — Bro. Reulet, second Melville, was relieved for holidays by Sister Schoonmaker, who also relieved Bro. Poole, first Bunkie, a few days while sick. Bro. Hotard relieved the operator at Mor- rows for the holidays, and Bro. Coincon re- lieved the agent there 30 days. Bro. L. M. Firmin, recently transferred from Ft. Worth Division, relieved Bro. W. H. Robinson, agent Rayne, a few days. Bro. Joe Zeigler is now in the oil fields, where there is supposed to be more money. We were sorry to lose him, but wish him success. • N.” Cert 2K. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 269 Chicago, Gt. Western Ry., Div. 96. Eastern Division — Bro. A. L. Barron is back at second Du- buque passenger station, and Bro. Nulty at Gretna agency, after several days' Illness. Bro. John Turley, agent Woodbine, Is still on the sick list. We hope for his speedy recovery. Bro. V. D. Richards relievel Si Ellis, St. Charles, when called to South Dakota, owing to the death of his sister. Operator Herrold, third Fairground, who injured himself while9 throwing levers there, is not expected to live. G. A. Ott. Western Division — It is now Brothers J. H. Lucksinger, agent, and F. E. Vanderhoof, operator, Somers, Iowa. Bro. Keas, Mason City, was off a few days on account of sickness ; also Bro. Lynch, of Moorland, owing to death in the family. He went to work at Bristow upon returning. Bro. Sullivan, Omaha Freight omce, is now with the Union Pacific, relieved by E. C. Andrews, Moorland. G. R. Hoisinqton, A. L. C., Cert. 169, 2028 Fourth Ave., South, Ft. Dodge, la. Northern Division — Clerk- telegrapher, Stewartville ; Spring Valley, Zumbrota and Nerstrand added to our schedule. The other divisions also se- cured some new positions, thanks to the efforts of our General Chairman. Haven’t held a meeting on this division for over a month, due to heavy business, bad weather and the uncertain train service. We will start them monthly again as soon as the rush is over and the weather mod- erates. Cert. 89. Southern Division — Agent Waddel, Martenslaye, has been promising for the last two years to take out a card, and C. C. Boyd is also still out. Brothers, don't forget that “No card, no fa - for#,” i corks wonders. Bra J. V. Going, agent Athelstan, and Bra Armstrong, agent Luray, la., are both up-to-date. It is now Bro. G. H. Mills on third Rea, paid up until June 30, 1920. Cert. 28. Duluth, S. Shore & A. Ry., Div. 116. Brothers P. M. Stillman of Seney and Danielson of Chassell, were in Marquette recently, conferring with the management on a grievance case. Bros. W. E. Fish and Hume attended a meeting of the B. of R. C. at Calumet, Sun- day, January 18th. N. H., Cert 215. “Soo Line" R. R., Div. 119. Northern District — Stanley is now a continuous telegraph sta- tion also Gilman, Nelson, on second, Miss Dailey on third latter. She was later re- lieved by Dell Devendorf; Sister Ender a few days by E. F. Clendenning, and Sister O'Brien by Thomas Ross, latter on account sickness. These reliefs were all new men. Sister Little relieved a few days by Brendet and Sister Ohmen by Tibbets. Three new dispatchers at Stevens Point, and three more side wire men at "NI," on account of the increase in business. Bros. Smith, first Irvine, and Clausen, agent Owen, are two of the new dispatchers. Bro. Lavine succeeds the latter at Owen agency. Cert. 1894. Lake Erie & Western R. R., Div. 120. The schedule is In print and every mem- ber should now have a copy. Our general chairman recently called a meeting at Tip- ton to discuss matters relating to action after March 1st, also in regard to visiting Chicago and conferring with Vice-President Brown as to the best plan to adopt to settle several minor grievances of long standing. The F. W. C. & L, Division has been with- out a local chairman for several months. Brothers, get busy, choose some good mem- ber and get up with the other divisions. Remember, February 29th Is the last day we can pay dues, and be considered in goo 1 standing. Cert. 73. Lehigh Valley R. R., Div. 124. Buffalo Division — The second Rochester joint meeting Jan- uary 2nd proved a hummer. It showed what can be done when the men take an interest in the work. Some 40 members in the morn- ing and some 48 In the evening. The at- tendance is more remarkable when we con- sider the temperature at 4 above, wind blow- ing about 80 per and the snow coming down in clouds. Terrible night. Five of these E8tkimos were sisters of our organization, none of whom reside in Rochester and 1 hope they continue. Their bravery should make those who could have attended but did not “sit up and take notice." Of 175 cases before the management in 1919 we lost but five. This record cannot be beaten by any other road. East or West. We have nno kick coming" and should pay our dues. Get together, attend meetings and see and hear what's going on. We are glad to see Sister Grace Miller back at Chicago Street Tower after six weeks’ illness. Until further notice the meetings on this division, will be held at Buffalo third Wednesday each month, Rochester first Fri- Digitized by Google

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270 The Railkuad Telegkaphkb. day each month. Make inquiries for the place of meeting as they are subject to change if not satisfactory. E. L. Con lon , Cert. 268. Seneca Division— Remember, brothers, regular meetings will be held every second Wednesday evening monthly in the new Odd Fellows Hall at Sayre, Pa. In the near future we expect to have a Joint social time and some re- freshments with the clerks in order to get acquainted with their members. M. M. Crane, G. S. & T. Bros. J. G. Lilley, New Albany, Pa., and William H. Kast. pushore, our two new members, makes the S. L. & S. branch solid. Bro. C. A. Lamphear, agent Van Etten. N. Y.. and Bro. F. Van Horn, Van Etten Tower, have returned from their vacations. Bro. F. E. Sweeney, extra dispatcher, is working In "SA'’ Sayre. Bro. J. R. Mc- Cracken, who worked there several days re- cently, later relieved Bro. Baker at Wash- ington street, Tonawanda. We are glad to see Bro. James A. Kinter back at Meshoppen after several days* illness. Wyalusing and Lacey ville have both been given a clerk at $87. 5o per month, to take care of the freight house, handle mail and assist in the office work, taking this burden off the operators. Cert. 500. Auburn Division — Bro. C. E. De Woulfe is relieving Bro. W. M. Mott, South Bay, who has gone to Flor- ida for the winter. Bro. Welser, second Freeville. relieved a month by Bro. Webster, a new man and a good one. Bro. L J. Botsford is to be chief clerk to J. B. Howell at Auburn Bro. Yontz was , a recent Oswego visitor. Cert. 280. Wyoming Division— Bro. Andes, Gracedale Tower, sick three days, relieved by Bro. McHale, "FW" Tower, relieved by a section foreman. Several other brothers were similarly relieved. Bro. Tom Conway, second trick dispatcher, is being congratulated on the arrival of a new boy at his home. Bro. Manning, night ticket seller Pittston, was off sick for several days. Bro. Moughan, day ticket seller Pittston, spent a week in New York, relieved by Bro. Farrel. Pay your current dues and stay organ- ized. Cert. 668. yew York Division— Bro. Hill, visiting his parents at Orlando, Fla., is sending the boys pretty cards and information about the climate and weather there that makes those who are here freez- ing, feel blue. Bro. Porter, second "CF” tower, stole a march on us, got married and is on hie honeymoon to Niagara Falls, Chicago, and a tour of the west We all wish him happiness. Bro. Freese, **CB” tower, is some chicken farmer. His flock cannot be beat by the best of them for laying. Cert. 186 New Jersey Topeka — Rumors are flying thick and fast these days with reference to the moving of headquarters to this point. Anyone's guess is as good as the other fellow’s and It serves to relieve the monotony. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 271 Trenton— Bro. Schreiber has laid aside the Fbrd as he says since Bro. Siler left there isn't enough hot air to crank it up. Bro. Jones returned from Kansas City re- cently, driving a nice big Nash. Says it looks more dignified than a Ford. Bro. Davenport is putting in his spare time figuring his back pay and has his eye on the aerial crafts. El Reno—1 The sudden and untimely death of Bro. Harrison came as a great shock to his many friends. Sister Guiles is back from a visit with her mother during the holidays. Bro. Goodfellow has gone to Haileyville as a dispatcher. "Joe's" many friends here hate to see him leave, but wish him all the lock in the world. Brothers, write your local chairman if you have a grievance. He may never hear of it if you leave It for the other fellow to handle. R. D. Stover, L. C. Kansas Division— "RT' Herington — Bro. Hustead relieved a few days by Bro. Popplewell from Union Pacific. Bro. Obar, a recent visitor, called at the yard but not at the main office. Bro. McQuIsten was here New Year’s con- ferring with the chief concerning his new agency. Bro. Patterson, third Yard, bid In the 5 a m. trick here. During 1919 I secured 20 new members besides getting the delinquents to pay up. Kansas Division Road Notes — We opened 1910 almost 100 per cent strong, with on* delinquent on the division, a fine showing, and I wish to thank the brothers on the division for the help they have given me the past year. Bro. Smith of Whiting is being congrat- ulated on the arrival of a new boy. We are glad to see Bro. Lewis Willard reinstated and back on the job again. I have been to Herington on several occa- sions lately handling grievances lor the membership. M. W. Shaw, L. C. Oklahoma Division — Want to insist that you all send a note of some kind each month to reach me be- fore the 20th. Let’s have a lively write-up from this division. No write-up last month as no notes were received and none received this month. Cert. 8254. Amarillo Division — Watch us come to the front. 91 per cent annuals and 40 days left as this is written to make It a 100 per cent. Our motto is 100 per cent or bust, and we are too tough to bust. Have two none who want to leave- Good bye! It is now Bro. J. D. Evans at Adraln with an annual in his jeans. Bro. Baucum bid in temporary position In Dispatcher’s Office, Bro. Landers relieving him at Groom, relieved by Bro. Compton, at Erick. New men coming to this division say we should change our local chairman. He Is too fast won’t wait until a man gets started on his job before he "yumps” on him, and keeps nagging him until he gets a card or leaves; that new men won't stay on this division if they have to put up witn such treatment. We say, good bye to them all if they won’t line up. The local chairman is right Cert. 2485. El Paso Division — Bros. Nicholas, Mineola and Pickering, Kismet are both papas now. Sister Whittemore Is being relieved by Bro. Foley, and Bro. Mendenhall, second Liberal, by Bro. Harrison, from the T. & F. Bro. Foreman, from the Nebraska Divi- sion, is doing relief work here. Local chairman. Louisiana Division — Bro. H. C. Owen, LaMourie, was a visitor to St Louis on business recently. Bro. M. L. Loventhai, Calton, is on the sick list having a series' of chills. We have another meeting at Eldorado this month. Everyone who can should be on hand. Those who cannot attend, mail us your grievances, and they will be looked after. Cert. 8429. Des Moines Valley Division — Sister Hanlon, of Williamson, spent New Years at her home in Brighton. Bro. Toson, third trick dispatcher Des Moines, called on the operators at Evans January 1st. Bro. Hunter, agent Melcher, and Bro. Sweeney, Des Moines, spent Christmas with home folks. New members: F. J. Joy, Charlton; J. J. Bodart, Chariton; Miss Jennie Madden and Mrs. L. M. Hanlon, Williamson ; W. O. Sells, Melcher, and R. W. Robbins, Winterset. Let’s keep after Montgomery at Corydoti and Davis at Pella, until we land them and make our division 100 per cent. Each one write these two men, mailing a copy to Bro. Forche. There are several divisions on the C. R. I. & P. 100 per cent, and we should all strive to add one more. Ckrt. 785. Iowa Division — Bros. Plumly, Ramsey, Kerlin and Dewey have sent Bro. Dunnam $14 eacn, maxing West Liberty solid and up-to-date for the Digitized by VjOOQle

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♦ 272 The Railroad Telegrapher. current year. Others on the division have done likewise, but this is the largest num- ber at any one station yet reported. So fhr they hold the first place, and are cnanenging all others to go them one better. While there are not that many eligibles at each station, eachistation can be 100 per cent Just the same. It is certainly gratifying to see the interest being ta^cen on the division, and I am very glad to say I understand it is the same in nearly all parts of the United States and Canada. Bro. Boatright, agent Stuart, has gone south, relieved by Bro. Kennedy. Bro. Mofford succeeds H. J. Garland at Harlan agency, pensioned. Bro. Morford, the second regularly assigned agent at Har- lan; Mr. Qarland having opened the station when the R. I. built in there. Bro. W. W. Smith, agent Audubon, now heads the senior- ity list. Long may he be the senior on the division. Is the wish of us all, for a more worthy man could not be found. Bro. C. B. Stanley bid in Earlham third, and J. E. Thompson, Shelby second, both new positions. H. N. Dutton, L. C. C. B. & Q. R. R., Div. ISO. Relay Division — Chicago — Bro. Stemm called to Jackson, Tenn., recently owing to the death of his sister, Mrs. J. B. Wallace. Death resulted from burns received cleaning a gas heater. Bro. Cantwell, called home to Milan, Tenn., on account of the serious illness of his mother, has returned to work in "GO.” Brookfield — Relay office here’ now handling train orders, relieving the dispatchers of the burden and placing three additional opera- tors. Bro. Squires. Non T. G. Line from the road taking care of train orders. We welcome Bro. Dormer from LaCrosse, now with us as regular. Bro. Barr spent Christmas in Laurel, Mont, returning with his bride, who was Miss Lacy Cloyd. He evidently believes in the motto, "Go West, young man." Bro. Mathews, who relieved him, also relieved Bro. Larimore New Tears, visiting home folks. Non L. D. Howe from Chilllcothe relieved on second train order job. Beardstown — Bro. Eighn bid in the phone job, vice Bro. Korte, promoted to second trick wire chief. Bro. Henderson, extra in dispatcher's office, is being relieved by Bro. Llvesey of Jacksonville. Expect Dispatcher Beet back from Russia this month, which will relieve Henderson of extra dispatching. Hannibal — Not much improvement re- ported as to Bro. Ashcroft, who has been off for some time. We were very much surprised as well as grieved to learn that Bro. J. L. Haynes. "HY," lost his wife. She was in poor health for six weeks and death was caused from an operation. Bro. Ainge leaves us to take regular dis- patcher’s job. Bro. Tucker takes position of third trick wire chief until Bro. Ash- craft’s return. Hannibal seems to be a good place to land, as this is the second man from the relay office going into "DS," Bro. Zlnn having left us recently. Creston — Non Bradley was off a week re- cently taking 32nd degree in Masonry at Des Moines. Non Wallace opening campaign for the third wire job. St. Joseph — Non Engle off 30 days trying out traffic manager Job with Hammond k Co., relieved by a man from Omaha. Kansas City — Bro. Owen* wears a broad smile since receiving his last check for December. Burlington— It’s now Bro. W. A. Partridge, manager, a valuable addition to the wire chiefs# Old "Pat" is a natural born leader. Come on, "Pat," let your light shine. Too got lots of good backing. Div. Coa Aurora Division — Bro. Dilts, of Division 39, operator Rock- ford, who goes to Deer Grove agency, has been transferred to this division. Bro. Richard, Neponset, I1L, goes to Bata- via, 111., agency; Bro. Ostewig to first Downers Grove, and Bro. Olvey from Caspar Division to Paw Paw. 111., agency. Bro. Fitch is relieving Bro. Sexton, agent Leland, I1L, a few months on account of sickness. Csrt. 6. Beardstown Division — Local Chairman McConnell presided at the Beardstown meeting January 7th. Bro. W. F. Reiley acting as secretary. There were present 43 members. Visiting brothers were General Chairman Denton, General Secre- tary and Treasurer Rogers, Bro. J. H. Bot- kins, Galesburg relay; Bro. F. M. Haist Norris; Bro. T. H. Sappington. St. David; A. A. Oliver, Farmington, and C. H. Muller, Ipava. The object of the meeting was or- ganisation and to promote the spirit of fra- ternalism among us. which was without doubt accomplished. The extraordinary report of our local chairman proved that he was not only on the job, but was riding it hard. Remember that 1920 subscriptions are now payable to Bro. Anderson, Whitehall. Kindly remit at once. While It is not compulsory we should remember that the good it has already ac- complished will last forever in the minds of our worthy brothers who have benefited by it Dues only $1.00 a year. W. F. Rsjlxt, Cert 2142. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 273 Bro. Schrieber, who is sick in Galesburg hospital, has a beautiful growing flower in his room to remind him that the brothers are with him in thought in his time of trou- ble. Join now. It is now Sister Potts, Barrow station, □on-scheduled position. She says she joined because she owed It to the other members. There is some food for thought for the nons in that remark. It will soon be Sister Katy Wright also. If we could only get Nons Kimmel and Miner (Cambon) out of the service the atmosphere would #be decidedly purer in that neighborhood. ** Bros. Baumgartner, Browning; Sheppard, Waverly. and Schrieber. Alexia, are off on account of sickness. Bros. Agnew and Demge, Block 107, were relieved & few days by some “farmer nons.” Hats off to Bro. Teague, who will soon return to Block 104, the first to pay dues every terra and carry an annual card. C. JV. McConnell, L. C. Galesburg Division, Quincy Branch — Bro. A. E. Dowell, second Macomb, re- lieved thirty days by Bro. R. R. Garrison. Bro. G. S. Herron, agent Lapa*airie, was off two weeks on account of sickness. Bro. J. P. Tobin, Abingdon, also off sick, re- lieved by Sister Spurgeon. Bro. ConnOrB, Bardolph, relieved a few days by Bro. Gooklns. Bro. D. E. Fosdyck, agent Fall Creek, spent Sunday with his parents in Augusta recently. It is now Bro. S. C. Case, agent Abingdon. Bro. G. V. Jones, Augusta, visited his mother In Galesburg recently. H. L. Thompson, A. C. l,., ere ri. 988. Galesburg Division, Peoria Branch — Bro. and Mrs. Parsons, Lewistown, spent several days with her parents at Pontiac, Bro. C. K. Gooklns, relieving, taken sud- denly ill, causing Bros. Myer and Henderson to double two days. Bros. Oliver, Farmington, and McMullen, Ipava, attended the meeting at Beardstown. January 7th. Bro. Swelgart, third Maquon, on the sick list, relieved by Bro. J. P. Tobin. Bro. W. W. Connor, Elmwood, resigned, relieved by Bro. T. F. Moore of second. Bro. Eakman. Tates City, relieved by Bro. Botkins, Galesburg relay, a few days. Brothers, don't let the few nons rest until we line them up. Promises don't pay for anything. Cert. 2244. La Crosse Division — Shortly after 11 o'clock Sunday morning, January 18th, Mrs. J. H. Rogers, wife of General Secretary and Treasurer Rogers, was so badly burned at their residence, 1505 Market street, La Crosse, Wis., by her cloth- ing catching fire from a stove, that she died Saturday, January 24 th. Bro. Rogers, at the time of the accident, was attending a meet- ing of the general committee in Chicago. The family have the sympathy of the en- tire membership. Bro. Tate, third Nelson, relieved a few days by J. Frommelt, and Bro. Kriesel, first Lytle, a week by Bro. A. W. Paul, who later relieved Bro. Hayes, third Ferryville, re- signed. Bros. Cullen, third East Winona; Biele- feld t, third Grand Crossing Depot; White, agent Grand Crossing Depot, and Operator Gallagher, second Lytle, on sick list, re- lieved by R. C. Scholmeier and Bros. S. W. Tucheck and Otto Sands. Bro. Gunther bumped L. A. Howard, third Hager, to waiting list, when Bro. Miller returned to first Hager, putting Bro. Slot- hauer back on third. Thanks to Bros. White, Otis Sands and Blelefeldt for this. Gome again. Cert. 227. Hannibal Division — Bro. Laudell, Reading first, was off a few days recently Bro. Bramell resumed Third Mark, dis* placing Bro. McKinney, who relieved Bro. Blincoe, agent Viele, temporarily. Bro. W. I. Moyer, Hannibal Yards, relieved Bro. J. L. Hayes “X" office, who has our heartfelt sympathy on account of the death of his wife January 10th. Bro. McCall, off since last August account of broken ankle, has resumed at Baverton agency, vice Bra L. L. Trihey to Kissenger nights, who visited the boys in “X" enroute. Bro. Elmer Dreher, McIntosh, was struck by piece of lumber from a passing train night of January 6th, putting him off the job for awhile. Bro. Roe Gilbert, of Hannibal Freight Yards, Is off account serious Illness of his mother. Remember the back pay thats coming, was gotten for you by the O. R. T., so don't fail to pay your dues and sro delinquent this month. Callt Mats. St. Joe, Mo., Division — Bra T. F. Bell us, Hamburg third, on a trip north relieved by L. F. Baker, recently back from the service, who later relieved Bro. Johnston agent Percival, a few dayB. Bra P. B. Adamson, Waldron second, visiting home folks in Hamburg, relieved by Extra Roe. Bro. Ed Weight, third Craig, operated on in Kansas City Hospital for rupture, has re- covered. Digitized by Google

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274 The Kailroad Telegrapher. Bro. W. W. Warnstaff, Phelps, relieved by Bro. G. B. Fewson, owing to an injury. Bro. Pat Gibbons, first Frejght Yards, is being relieved by Mr. Olson, recently released from military service. Bro. E. F. Pettie, Bartlett, was off sev- eral nights recently. Bro. H. F. Strahl, Garden Grove, is visit- ing relatives in Kansas City, and his son, Bro. L. P. Strahl. now at Pacific Jet. Thanks to Bro. Turner, Tatan, for news. Come again, please. L. J. Millen, Loc. Corr.. Coin, la. Creston Division — Bro. M. D. Walker goes to Omaha Division as extra dispatcher. We hate to lose him, but all wish him success. Bro. Strohl, who succeeds him on Pacific Jet, first, is having some interesting times in Council Bluffs and Omaha now' that he has good train connections. Bro. Johnson, agent Macedonia, off with lumbago, was relieved by Bro. Oswald, who later returned to Hastings. Bro. Read, third Emerson, who seems to be in serious trouble, was relieved two days by Lundstrum. Bro. Read should let us hear from him if in need of any assistance. The brothers along the line will be glad to help him. All of you who can should take out an annual instead of six-month cards. It makes it handy for you, reduces the division ex- penses and the work of our officers. All three of the Pacific Jet. boys nave taken out annuals. How many other offices can say the same? J. E. Pace, Cert. 1603. Ottumwa Division — Bro. McBride has asked me to assist him as chairman and will do w'hat I can to nave a write-up every month if every member will send me his notes before the 20th. The men assigned Sunday work have re- ceived their increase for December. Bro. Clampltt, Pleasanton, is now in a bank at LeRoy as assistant cashier. Bro. Weber relieved Bro. Roberts, Alba, while his wife was sick. We were all sorry to hear of Bro. Beatty's death. He has been sick several years. We extend our sympathy to his family. Bro. Chas. H. Lunders, relieved at Thayer last summer on account of his eyesight, has had to have one eye taken out. Bro. Anderson in Burlington hospital, is better. Bro. Littleton, of Lockridge, had his house burn recently, destroying all his household goods, also Bro. Brown’s, who roomed with him. Bro. Stafford, on a trip to California, was relieved by Bro. Conrad. Bro. J. E. Myers, Cert. 76, Tyrone, Iowa. wishes to thank the members of this division for their sympathy and the beautiful floral offering, presented at the death of his mother, the grandmother also of other members of the family. W. C. Harrell, Asst L. C. Omaha Division — Five new members in December. Bro. Gfier and Bro. Field transferred from Division 6 and Bro. McFarland from the Lin- coln Division. Bro. Rakow, relieved at Page thirty days, by Bro. Kirk, now relieving Bro. Gilbert at Wann, on account of sickness. Bro. Bouman, Brunswick, surprised by having his son from Idaho drop in to spend Christmas holidays. Bros. Salloway, Winnebago, and Yocum. Yutan, will no doubt welcome the new oper- ators authorized for these stations to handle the heavy business on the Soo Line. Bro. Holmes, Walthill, relieved Bro. Finch, agent Rosalie, resigned, going into other business. , Bro. White, Gibson, relieved fifteen day* by Bro. Swanda, who later relieved Bro. Wachel, on third, while spending a few day* at home. Bro. Swanda then took sick and Gibson third had to be closed several nights, as there W'ere no operators available for re- lief. Later Bro. Swanda relieved Bro. Holt. Greenwood, on account of sickness of rela- tives in Illinois. Bro. Hawkins opened up Yutan, relieved at Greenwood by Bro. Jim Klmbal, home from the University. Bro. Grendler, third Fremont tower, sick, relieved by Bro. Vant and he by Bro. Kirk, on Waverly third. Later Bro. Grendler re- signed. Bro. Holt, relieved by Bro. Kimbol at Greenwood, while on a trip to Omaha. C. W. West, L. C.. Cert. 1291. Bro. Kirk, who relieved Bro. Gilbert at Wann a few days, also relieved Bro. Fender at Ashland, on sick list, and then relieved Vant, second Greenwood. Bra Steinbock, Fremont, was also off several days owing to sickness, no relief operators in sight and Agent Wagner had to do the telegraphing and handle the ticket job. Bro. West went to Omaha recently with General Chairman Denton handling case* before Mr. Thiehoff. Bro. West’s write-up for January Jeurnal delayed in mails arriving in St Louis one day too late is incorporated In this month’* items. H. L. Gilbert, Wann. Neb. Lincoln Division — Bro. C. A. Smith, agent Juniata, has re- turned from California. Sister Davis re- lieved him. Digitized by ^.ooQle

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The Hailkoad Teleguaphkk. 275 Bro. C. M. Miller, third Ravenna, has .gone to Lincoln for extra dispatcher’s work. Dispatcher Earl Purinton promoted to night chief, Sterling, Colo. Third trick Ravenna line to Extra Dispatcher Guy Herschner. Bro. B. W. L&nnon, Pleasant Dale, has re- signed and gone to Chattanooga, Tenn. Cushman, Cobb and Cairo third, second and third Bradshaw and second Murphy and Phillips opened up recently. Bro. L. A. Wilson, third Grand Island, has resigned and gone West, relieved by Bro. McMinn. It is now Bro. E. C. Combs, agent Huntley. Bro. H. Boyd from Grand Division trans- ferred to Division 130, bid in third York. Thanks to Bros. Anderson, Bradshaw; P. KL Miller, Joe Clark and Oleary, Dorchester, for notes. Send your items to A. A. Can- field, Fairmont, Neb., and we will try and have a write-up In The Telegrapher each issue. Cert. 3167. Sterling Division — New members: E. McDonald, Loomis; C. P. Gill, Bayard, and E. B. Freeman, extra agent, recently back from the Navy, who relieved Bro. Hart at Dickens a few days. Bro. Nichol, Paoli, spent the holidays with his wife in Kansas City. See if R. L. Gil- more relieving hlnp has the necessary cre- dentials. F. E. Sense, Cert. 1690, L. C. Alliance Division , West End — Bro. Shields, account sickness, relieved by Cronin, a new man. Bro. Williams, third Hemfngford, by Operator Uhl, • and Osborn, first Edgemont, by Bro. Trlggs, relieved on third by Bro. Stewart. ' Bra Larson, second Crawford, resigned, relieved by Bro. Williams. Bro. Shields has returned to Ardmore, Bro. J. L. Young going to Halsey. Bro. L. Z. Young went to first Broken Bow when fourth Edgemont pulled off. The company has put in a $150.00 pump man at Belmont the agent and operators losing $7.50 per. Cert. 2578. East End — Bro. J. L. Young is relieving 6ro. Koch at Hoffland on his honeymoon. Bra Patrick and Ansley called to Mars- land owing to the death of his father-ln- Jaw relieved by Bro. Hyatt, third Litchfield. Bro. Johnson, second Antioch, called back Bast account death of his father, relieved by Bro. Bailey. Cert. 1605. McCook Division — Ex-Agent Irwin elected treasurer of Furnas County with headquarters at Beaver City, Neb., longs to sit in again with the old gang. Melvin Black and Bill Conyers lead- ing the quiet life they are both royal enter- tainers. A. Beezley, L. C., Cert. 1213. McCook Division Notes — Bro. Arthpr Beezley, Wilsonville, Neb., has been elected local chairman of this divison. succeeding Bro. Weyl, resigned, and gone Into business for himself. Bro. Beezley has been on McCook Division since 1904, so if you have any troubles, just tell them to “Beez.” Bro. Peters goes to Derby, succeeded at Holdrege by Bro. Lages, from second Ara- pahoe. Hope he can make that station solid. Bro. Rickards, third Holdrege, goes to sec- ond Thirty-first Street Denver, and Bro. Johnson, from Mascot to Republican, vice Bro. Harris back to Danbury, vice Bro. Al- bright to Herndon, vice Bro. Cheesmore to Hendly, vice Bro. Frederickson to McDonald, and Bro. Kelly, Bird City to Halgler. Bro. Doty relieved Bro. Hoppe, first Alma, while shopping in Denver, who on his re- turn relieved Bro. Bauers. while he spent a few days in Kansas City, ana then took Mascot agency. Remember, that “in union there is strength/9 E. W. Putz, Cert 1090. Wymore Division— Telegraphers’ positions recently added at Peru, Guide Rock DeWltt, Sterling and Roca on account of heavy traffic and work- ing short hours. On account of government restrictions limiting the size of our Journal, we are not allowed to print assignments, in memoriams, cards of thanks and vacations. This will cut our items pretty short. Remember, “No card, no favors Cert. 842. Sheridan Division — Third Oriva opened January 1st, by Sis- ter V. F. Roberts, and second Dewey, S. P . opened January 4th by Bro. C. A. Snyder from Lincoln Division, later to the N. P.. relieved by Ex-W. U. Mgr. Leonard from Hardin. Bro. McCulley succeeded at Corinth agency by Bro. E. A. Almand, goes to Cas- per relay. Bro. Barnhill is back in "SA" after a year’s absence. Bro. Daigh, third wire chief, off four days, owing to the death of his father, and Bro. Sanders, agent Arvada, several days on account of death In his fam- ily. Bro. G. E. Pollard has been appointed Lo- cal Chairman to fill the unexplred term of Bro. C. M. Miller, resigned, being trans- ferred to Sheridan relay and extra dispatch- er. He has appointed Bro. H. C. Thomas, agent Ulm. assistant, and they have asked Digitized by Google

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27 ti The Railroad Teleghaphee. me to take the correspondence. Send in a few notes each month and we will have as good a write-up as any of them. L. A. Hunter, Cert. 1783. Colorado & Southern R. R., Dfv. TbU. Fort Collins Dispatch — Bro. Green, "FX” Denver yard, is spend- ing 90 days in California. Bro. Patten, Utah Jet., started for the meeting night of January 8th, and lost his way somewhere between the depot and the D. & I. tracks. Bro. Hillen, agent Superior, is all set for the 1920 crop. Sister Peterson, Globeville, 'phoned me at 11 :45 p. m. recently asking the rate tor an annual. If someone can show me $15.00 often enough, I will get up any old time just that often. Bros. Smith, Timnath and Northrup, Windsor, are about through with the beet rush. Bro. Heath, second Semper, and wife are spending 90 days in . California, relieved by Bro. Sasser. Bro. Herron, first Ft. Collins, was off a few days on account of sickness. Bro. Tanner, agent Broomfield, is enjoy- ing a visit with his mother and sister from Missouri. Falcon District — On this district we have some of the old- est operators in service in Colorado, Bros. Watts, Parkers, 73 ; Harmon Elbert, and Guy, Elizabeth, 82. Bro. Soper, Eastonville, has forgotten his age, born, he thinks, some- where in Ireland. They constituted the force of a district at one time the main link between the sound and the gulf. Wyoming District — Bro. Laas bid in Dwyer agency and Bro. Bailey, Chugwater, vice C. H. Moore, re- signed. Bro. Benedlce, has resumed at Iron Moun- tain after several weeks spent in Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska. The case of Bro. Colstadt, Wheatland, be- ing relieved of Sunday work, although being held responsible for the station, is up be- tween the committee and the management; the contention of the former being that un- less an employe is relieved from both duty and responsibility he shall be paid the same as though actual service Is being performed. Bro. Parenteau, Ft Russell, is another agent with disagreeable Sunday hours. Pos- sibly Bro. Hartsel, trainmaster, can remedy this. Clear Creek District — Bro. Buffington is relieving “Non” Moses, Silver Plume, granted sixty days' additional leave. Bro. Barill, Empire, has purchased a new machine. Bro. Jones, station at Georgetown, covers a larger territory than the Denver agency. Bro. Coughlin, Idaho Springs, ia getting ready for that summer rush at the sulphur baths. South Park District — Bro. Terry, Leadville, is on a trip to the Coast for 90 days. Bro. Sheffer, Dillon, is relieving Bro Pierce. Southern District — Local Chairman Wilson has been advised • by Supt Abrams that hereafter he woul i be notified of investigations in ample time to attend. General Chairman Bonney pro- poses that our members shall have commit- tee representation when called in to Trini- dad. Bro. Bonney is negotiating with the^ man- agement the readjustment of Bro. Ander- son’s wages on account of the withdrawal of the express agency at Walsenburg. "V;* Cert. 95 O. W. Ry. & Nav. Co., Diy. 161. First Division — George M. Reeves celebrated securing third "DK," The Dalles, by getting married. Now see that he protects his bride by taking out a card. R. W. Teeters, our new dispatcher, was formerly at Roseburg, dispatcher. night chief, etc. Bro. Merritt is off 30 days, resting up. Sister Niles returned from the headquar- ters office, is relieving Bro. J. V. Mitchell at Albina. L- E. Howard. Third Division — Sister Mays, Ayer Jet., spent several days with her sister on the fourth division ra- lieved by Sister Young, who also relieved Sister Smythe, at Starbuck, on a trip to Walla Walla, and then relieved Bane at Kennewick, relieving Bro. King, agent Granger, called to Graceville. Minn., on ac- count of the death of his father. We ex- tend our sympathy to Bro. King in his ir- reparable loss. Brother Reilly has taken the new trick at Page. L. Lucius Smyth*, Divn. Cor. and Asst. L. C. Southern Division — The recent meeting at San Rafael wm well attended. More of you brothers from up the line, come to these meetings and mine known your wants and grievances and gestions. Gen. Chairman Sanborn read ex- tracts from the committee’s report, havtog Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 277 matters up for adjustment with the wage board at Washington. If successful we will have a raise of 5 to 10 cents an hour. Bro. Starck, second San Rafael, on a trip to Missouri, relieved by Bro. Winans. Bro. and Sister Matson are being congrat- ulated on the arrival of a baby girl. Bro. Blabon is sufficiently recovered to resume on tower No. 6 again. Bro. Sweeney, third Tiburon, nas returned from a visit to Red Bluff. Brothers on the Northern Division, send Bro. Bronson. Loleta, your news items, so that he can give you a write-up in each isroe. Thanks to Bros. Ford, Qreen and Kay for items this month. E. L. Elt, Cert. 106, Ignacia, Cal. Chicago & Alton R. R., Div. 168. Chicago & St. Louis Line — About forty members met at Bloomington Union station Saturday night, January 17th, to discuss some matters regarding the sal- ary of the chairman which had arisen through the misunderstanding of some of the brothers who had circulated a petition and which was signed by many of the boys on account of the misleading statements which it contained. The North and West was well represented, but there were none from south of Atlanta with the exception of these brothers from Auburn. It was decided to hold the next meeting at Springfield. Boys, let’s attend these meet- ings, get better acquainted and learn to understand each other better. We wish Bro. and Mrs. L. F. Hertenstein, the newly weds, much success and happiness m their married life. Bra E. E. Knapp’s seniority has been orrected to read March 30, 1906. M. Myers, Cert. 543. Western Division — Bra Bell, Centralia, visited home folks at Slater and Bro. William Harlow, wife and daughter. Hlgbee, visited relatives at Odessa recently. Bro. Patterson and wife and Bro. Snediker and wife of Higbee were recent Kansas City shoppers. Bro. Barton, second at Slater, and family visited friends and relations at Mexico recently, and Bro. Morgan, agent at Steinmetz, who does not work Sundays, visited Higbee friends. Bro Reese also visited friends there during the holidays. Bro. Jewett, Louisiana, relieved 10 days by Bro. Elam, who is now dealing in real estate. Local Chairman Grimsley, in Blooming- ton on business for the order, visited his mother at Tates on his return. Bro. Yates also visited home folks at Yates recently. Bro. Mays is back at Louisiana tower after a sick spell. Bro. Monroe, agent Louisiana, ! and fam- ily spent the holidays visiting his wife’s folks at Ames, Iowa. Bro. Mullin, Pleasant Hill, called away by the sudden illness of his mother, was re- lieved by Bro. King. Bro. Lewis, temporarily disqualified after 3 years’ service as dispatcher at Rood- house, on the North and South end, is now on third “RO”. He was one of our first members on this road. The trainmen have petitioned for his reinstatement. Bro. Dameron, Booth, has resumed at Booth after an attack of appendicitis, and Bro. Bean to third Slater after a few days’ rest. Cert. 625. Central Vermont R. R.f Div. 171. Southern Division — A well-attended meeting was held in Nor- wich on December 15th, although the train connection was poor. Those, however, who attended felt well repaid for the effort made. Vice-President Ross gave a splendid outline of what the organization was trying to ac- complish and full particulars regarding the proposition presented to the wage board on December 5th, 1919. It was the first time our division had been visited by a grand officer since we were organized in 1916, and Bro. Ross certainly won the respect and confidence of those who heard him. He as- sisted the committee in St. Albans in try- ing to get the non-telegraph and supervisory positions in our proposed schedule as pro- vided for in Supplement No. 13. Bro. Darby bid in Northfield, Mass., and Bro. Alguire, from the New Haven, got Hartland, Vt., second. F. M. Webber. Windsor & White River Jet. Line — I have not received any news from you boys along the line for several months. We cannot have a write-up unless you send in the items. It seems as if you fellows at St. Albans might get an item In The Telegrapher once in a while. I am willing to do my best if you will meet me half way. Trusting that I may receive something for our next month’s issue. J. F. Flanagan, Cert. 151. Oregon Short Line R. R., Div. 172. Utah Division — Bro. Davy back after a severe attack of typhoid fever, is on third McCammon, re- lieved by Bro. Fred Pickren, on third Soda Springs, and Bro. Wanamaker on second Soda. Sister Coughlin relieved by Miss Sahlberg a few weeks at Novene. Digitized by Google

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278 The Railroad Telegrapher. Sister Mickels, second Novene, sick with pneumonia, is being relieved by Bro. Jolly from Idaho Division. Bro. “Doc” Gilbert bid in third sage and now has his family with him. Cert. 739. Montana Division — Bro. E. E. Esco, while moving his fam- / ily from Dillon to Armstead, was relieved a few days on first there by Bro. Gordon, Division 49, who later opened Roberts nights. Bro. R. G. Call bid in first Dillon, bump- ing Bro. Lyon, who took third there and was relieved a few days by Bro. Don San- dell from Division 49. Bro. W. Q. Kearns is now on second Mel- rose, and M. L. Gillespie at Lima agency. Bro. C. L. Perleywlts, first Lima, spent the holidays in Salt Lake, relieved by Bro. T. L. Gray. Bro. Council, first, and Sister Knuckey. second Ashton, are being relieved by Sisters Mario and Spencer. Bro. D. C. Leach is back at St. Anthony, relieving Bro. Shaw Weaver. V. J. Swanson, Cert. 725. Idaho Division — Bro. C. M. Selix, Mountain Home, has been appointed assistant local chairman by Bro. Lefler, with jurisdiction over the Fourth District, including all the branches. He recently visited the capitol city. Sister Golliespie, Wapi, owing to the ill- ness of her father, relieved by Sister Mar- garet Karas from Bancroft. Sister Bessie Blazier, Minidoka, on a trip South, relieved by Bro. Blazier. She has been appointed assistant correspondent for Fourth District, East End. Everybody help her to have a good write-up each month. Bro. Atwood, second Nyssa, is now with the O. W. R. N. at Reith, Oregon. Bro. Jarvis, who has been relieving Sister Murphy of Crane, has gone to Nyssa sec- ond. R. W. Schinzler. Toledo A Ohio Central R. R., Div. 173. Bro. Bets, 2nd Mounds Tower, is build- ing a new house, and Bro. Batridge has bought the one he has lived in for a num- ber of years. We are glad to learn that Bro. Mitchell’s boy is better; also Bro. Evans’ mother, who has been very sick. Cert. 165. Tennessee Central R. R., Div. 178. A special meeting was called for February 8th at Lebanon, Tenn., to finish up old business and elect officers for 1920. The new schedule will be read and discussed. It contains a lot of new features with sup- plements to the old. After a long and strenuous struggle Bixth Vice-President Anderson won this prize for us, assisted by our general committee, General Chairman Cleveland and Brothers Davis, Hamilton. Woodford and Rummage. We a re proud of Brother Anderson, because he is “one of our boys.” Many of the “old heads” can re- member when “Johnny** was pounding brass with them and all of us hope there are greater victories and honors awaiting him in our fraternity. Division No. 178 cordially invites every O. R. T. member In good stading to visit us. We will welcome you at all our meetings, which are held in Lebanon, Tenn., on the first Sunday night after the 15th of every month. Cert. No. 9. C., T. H. A 8. E. R. R., Div. 180. Bro. Southerland, 3rd DA, a leap year victim, was married January 12th. Con- gratulations. Bro. Tutewller and Bros. Mitchel 2nd HK, were relieved a few days by Opr. Asmon, who later relieved Sister Ander- son, agent Blandford. several days. Bro.. Daughtry to 3rd Black Hauck, re- lieved by Opr. Coaleman on 2nd BW. Johannott reopened, Bro. Rosier, 1st; Bro. Terry, 2nd; Sister Resler, 3rd. Bro. Vice on 2nd, and Bro. Mann pn 3rd SK. P. A. Malone, L* C. Mo. A No. Ark. Ry.f Div. 182. Agent Beaty, Berryvllle Agency, is on six months’ leave on account of ill health. General Chairman Brasfield has had Op- erator Murphy put back on GM. It pays to carry an “up-to-date” and have fair treatment Back him up, brothers, and re- member “No card, no favors” is the motto for Division 182. B. F. Stevenson, L. C., Cert. 61. La. Ry. A Navigation Co., Div. 183. Our general chairman and G. S. A T. have not received a cent for the lot or good work they have done for us. Bro. Latil is up many nights until after midnight straighten- ing up some of our affairs, also the O. S. A T. Let us show our appreciation by voting them some kind of a salary. Cert 84. Spokane, Portld. A Seattle Ry., blv. 184. Bro. Hubbard, operator Levey, relieved by Mrs. Berner, bid in Snake River agency, vice Bro. Blank, who bid in “DO” office, Vancouver. Bro. Hopkins bid in second Snake River, vice Bro. Bechtol, who bid in second Camas, vice Bro. Henderson. Bro. G. Bickle, third Snake River. J. W. B.. Cert. 127. Digitized by tjOOQle

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GRAND DIVISION NOTICE. Mirk W. Davenport, a member of Division 17, has been expelled for conduct unbecoming member. Mutual Benefit Department Assessment No. 145 is due January 1, 1920 Time for payment expires February 29, 1920 Name BENEFIT8 PAID IN JANUARY Cause ..Ivan W. Davis Peritonitis . .Frank A. Week Heart Failure ..Sam A. Wentworth. . .Intestinal Nephritis AMOUNT OF ASSESSMENTS On $ 300.00 (Series A) i On 500.00 (Series B) On 1,000.00 (Series C) Claim No. 3048.. 3049. . 3060. 3051 3052. 3053 3054. .James G. Smith Killed by R. R. Eng 3055.. Harry M. Benton Automobile Accident 3056 -Judson S. Kingsley ... .Chronic Myocarditis 3057.. Werner von Winckler .Typhoid Fever 3068.. Royan D. Pierson Pulmonary Tubercul 3059.. Josie A. Leamy Cerebral Congestion 3040. .Ellis J. Hunter Chronic Nephritis .. 3063.. D. W. Norman Heart Trouble 3064 3065. 3066. 3067.. Loan C. Bigley 3068.. Bdy the L. Sim) 3069.. Arthur C. Wat $2.40 per year 3.60 per year 7.20 per year .Oscar C. Allen Fracture of Skull. . .John M. Cluney General Paralysis . Div. Cert. Series Amt. ..140.. 44513.. C. .$ 1,000.00 . 72.. 13524.. A. 300.00 . 17.. 54649.. C. . 1,000.00 . 28.. 45115.. A. 300.00 . 53.. 50297.. A. 300.00 . 83.. 3333.. B. 600.00 Gnd... 11245.. C. l.UUO.OO . 17.. 66307.. C. . 1,000.00 . 16.. 37411.. C. . 1,000.00 .161.. 26440.. C. . 1,000.00 . 12.. 30608.. C. . 1,000.00 . 23.. 32678.. C. . <1,000.00 .111.. 54966.. C. . 1,000.00 .144.. 29732.. C. . 1,000.00 . 88.. 27144.. B, 600.00 . 29.. 25585.. C. . 1,000.00 . 16.. 20863.. C. . 1,000.00 .124.. 55411.. A. 300.00 . 17.. 68553.. A. 300.00 .168.. 45332.. C. . 1,000.00 Total, $15,500.00 FINANCIAL STATEMENT— MORTUARY FUND. Receipts. Received on assessments to December 31, 1919 $2,467,413.94 Received on assessments January, 1920 47,586.12 Interest 67,330.61 Total '. $2,572,330.67 Disbursements. Death claims paid to December 31, 1919 $1,924,227.47 Death claims paid in January, 1920 15,500.00 Assessments refunded account rejected applications 3,429.21 Assessments transferred to dues 404.99 Balance on hand credit Mortuary Fund January 31, 1920 628,769.00 Total $2,572,330.67 C. B. RAWLINS, Secretary and Treasurer, Mutual Benefit Department. Digitized by Google

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54 When addressing our advertisers, please mention The Railroad Telegraphed Twentieth CentvryModel with safety Bow Says the Train Dispatcher “Abraham Lincoln’s famous saying about fooling the people, etc., didn’t refer to watches and train dispatch- ers of course, but the same principle applies. For when it comes to the correct time you can’t fool any train dis- patcher any of the time. He must have correct time and he knows constantly when his watch is keeping it.” CTtoT Watches OJffe Official ffial/roaJifandan] D’spatchers, and all men of the rail, who pat their confidence in the Ball Watch do not have this confidence violated. Ulmiu The Ball Watch is especially designed to meet the exact official require- ments of the fcreat Railroad Systems. That’s why it is called the “Offi- cial Railroad Standard." It is necessarily a most reliable watch; it consequently should be your watch. Ask your dealer. The Webb C. Ball Watch Co., Cleveland, Ohio CHICAGO Garland Building SAN FRANCISCO Jewelers Building WINNIPEG Confederation Life Bldg. Digitized by ,y Google

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. . ■v. : ■• v' - '- . $)Jtt ' ' - M*,''.^ V.' n: . JilMi^. /Tk OLUME XXXVII NUMBER 3 z\)t (Drbrv of JXailroab Cclcgrapbcrs ENT ICIt ED AS SKt’u.Nlu'LASS MATTI.i: I ' M 'El N • ' I OF A F GUST 24. 1 ' * 1 l «»\ .1 \ N i ' A I : Y ’•>, 1' \T POST OFFICE AT ST. I.OflS. M N . ! I i A ‘ ' 1 ■ MM flmNrSliiWi i • .‘*r

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention The Railroad Telegrapher. A$100 Oliver T ype writer for $5 Befoic tliis ojuntry’s uitr\ into the war, tin- price of the Oliver Typewriter1 $100. \nd, ; rank 1 y , we always wanted to lower it. J Jut old ways of selling foi 11s to join in expensive methods. The w ar taught u> all new economics. We learned new *ways of selling. I found it tintua essarv to ha\e gnat numb* . r> of traveling salesmen and numJ expensive branch houses throughout the country. We were also able to dis titme maiiv other supr-rJlimus, costly sales methods. As a result wo now -11 the id' ntiral $100 model for $."7. Only our plan has changed. Nal Oliver. WV olt'er ;it this great saving our fatuous No. 9, the latest and best Oliver. You Be the Judge We will .-hip an Oliver to you for five day.-’ free trial, without, your paying in advance. Try it as if it wen* jour own. Compare it. Examine its stunlv run.-d ruction. Note* it- handsome finish in ho. ivy enamel and polished nickel. It. has a standard keyboard and all the latest im- provement-. A better tvpewriter is unobtain- able at any price. If you agree that it is the finest typewriter at an * prin , pay ns at the rate of $3 per month. And use it. all tie- time while paying. This is hotter than rent in:-' If you do not want to k » * r> ii. merely send it hack, express colleot. W*- e\ en refund the out-going trans- portation charge. . | T H f At I v f R TYPEWRITER COMPANY IP 15G:i Oliwr T ypewrlt* r Bldg , Chicago. III. S ;• P. I [,• .v N . ■ i r V . ,i . \ a fr. •- I ! I ' r : u.-m1 by many of the for ir 'I iv. su - don’t rt’iit -until you have invent! ih,- g. . ; i • : t- c s. ’ d the - u .Hid It- 1 p i • 1 i\c • * .! *• a!, l PirtlKT n form it).,' . in the Mail an Save $43 I Name Stno t Address I City S -J Occupatlun ur Bus.in.sj

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Signal Shirts ,TubTesT te-«_ • are in a class by themselves. Perfect in fit and workmanship, made of selected fabrics, they are wash-proof and wear like iron. Ask your dealer to show you the Signal shirt. If he has none in stock send us his name and your size and well sec that he gets one for you. • HILKER-WIECHERS MFG. CO.^ Dept. D1246 Radne, Wis. ever measures up to the demands of the man who has once worn a Signal. He has learned how good shirts can be. NO OTHER SHIRT ©[sags©

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.« v3 <1 Report of Proceedings in Connection With 1919-1920 Wage Movement STATEMENT by the Chief Executives of the Railroad Labor Organiza- tions, signatory hereto, to their respective constituencies, setting forth fully the progress of our negotiations since February 3d, when we en- tered into a discussion of the wage question with the Director General of Railroads. To Officers and Members of the Fifteen (15) Railroad Labor Organizations Repre- senting All Classes of Railroad Employes in the United States. Dear Sirs and brothers: It is unnecessary to preface our submission with any lengthy general statement, because the correspondence embodied herein explains in detail the contentions, position and arguments advanced by the Chief Executives of the Railroad Organizations. We will, therefore, confine our preamble to a few pertinent ffccts which have a direct bearing upon what follows. Daring the year 1919 practically all at the bona fide railroad labor organizations presented requests for increases and readjustments of wages In one form or another to the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions. All these requests have been held in abeyance because of a letter issued by the President of the United Digitized by Google

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282 The Railroad Telegkaeiiek. States to the Director General of Railroads, under date of August 25, 1919v wherein he declared it the policy of the Government that no general increases in wages to railroad employes would be approved pending an effort on the part of the Govern- ment to reduce the then existing high cost of living. This declaration, however, was qualified to the extent that if living costs were not reduced within a reasonable period they would haye to be accepted as permanent and railroad employes* wages adjusted along with others. Railroad employes realized at that time what the President’s proclamation of August 25 meant to them. Weighted with burdens almost unbearable, they, as loyal citizens and with a whole-hearted desire to co-operate with the President of the United States, in his determined attempt to reduce living costs, not only to rail- road workers, but to the entire American public, accepted this program and carried it out in good faith notwithstanding the fact that living costs continued to rise during the six months intervening since the proclamation was issued. Immediately following the holidays the several organizations, individually, were forced to press their demands for relief from the almost unendurable economic con- ditions obtaining, and were so insistent that the Director General of Railroads deemed it expedient to summons the Chief Executives of the fifteen bona fide railroad labor organizations to meet with him on February 3 for the purpose of discussing jointly the general wage question as applicable to railroad employes and ways and means of meeting the demands of the employes. The conferences between the Director General of Railroads and the Executives of the organizations continued from February 3, 1920, until February 12, 1920, when, failing to find a solution of the problem, the entire matter was referred to President Wilson, who on February 13 received a special committee, consisting of three Ex- ecutives of the railroad labor organizations, and submitted for the consideration of the affiliated organizations a proposition which is incorporated herein. Realizing that a mutuality of interests obtains between the railroad organiza- tions in these very important negotiations and with a view toward cementing these interests in our relations with each other, to the end that all railroad emyloyes may receive just and proper recognition of their demands and needs, we have entered into a co-operative agreement whereby the organizations signatory thereto agree to work in concert until the present wage movement is finally and satisfactorily adjusted. Memorandum of Agreement We have for years recognized that in our economic relations with the rail- roads that the injury to one is the in- terests of all, hence, we, the chief execu- tives of the bona fide railroad organiza- tions of North America, parties to this agreement, hereby declare it our policy to co-operate in the adoption of a plan of offensive and defensive procedure to cope with the unprecedented conditions con- fronting us at this time, and set. forth as our covenant the following principles and rules to govern under the operation of this agreement: First. Each organization signatory to this agreement shall be represented in all meetings of the affiliated organizations by the chief executive, or his personal representative, and the organization shall be bound by the action of either. The chief executive, or his representative, shall be expected to attend all sessions of the joint body. If a chief executive is unable to attend the'meeting of this body,, his representative shall be vested with full authority of the chief executive. Second. All meetings shall be at the call of the chairman or upon written re- quest of five chief executives, or their duly authorized representatives. Time and place to be set by chairman, except when otherwise decided by the majority. Digitized by Google

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The Kailkoad Telegrapher. 28.1 Third. All matters of policy and pro- cedure affecting this general offensive and defensive program shall be presented to and acted upon by a regularly called meeting before any action is taken. In- dividual action taken by any organiza- tion, or group of organizations, except in compliance with the above, shall not re- ceive the support or co-operation of the several organizations parties to this agreement, except as they may decide. Fourth. All financial obligations in- curred by the duty constituted authority in compliance with this agreement shall be prorated upon the per capital basis of the respective memberships in rail- road service, and bills rendered to the respective organizations shall be payable within thirty days. Failure to remit amounts due within the specified time shall (except when extension of time is granted by the Executive Committee hereinafter created or by the majority of the duly authorized representatives of the organizations parties to this agree- ment) be cause for suspension from this body. Fifth. The officers of this body shall be composed of a Chairman, Secretary- Treasurer and an Executive Committee of at least five members, two of whom shall be the Chairman and Secretary- Treasurer. They shall hold office until their successors are elected and in- stalled. They shall jointly have such authority and perform such duties as may from time to time be assigned or delegated to them by the majority of the duly authorized representatives of the organizations signatory to this agree- ment Sixth. There shall be no authorized stoppage of work by any organization party to this agreement, except and until the* requirements of the respective consti- tutions have been complied with by the duly authorized officers as to taking the required vote. In concerted actidn all ballots for such vote shall be jointly pre- pared and approved. Tabulated returns shall be forwarded to the Chairman and Secretary of this body by the respective organizations, who shall compile and an- nounce results of same to all organiza- tions parties to this agreement, and a legal vote for an organization or group of organizations shall be as required by their respective constitutions, except as to the organizations affiliated with the Railway Employes’ Department of the American Federation of Labor, which shall be as per that Department Constitu- tion. Seventh. When parties to this agree- ment are working in co-operation there- under and extreme action has been de- cided upon, said action will be taken concurrently by order of the Chairman and Secretary of this body. Eighth. If any organization or organi- zations parties to this agreement find it necessary to act independently of this body, proper notice shall be given of such contemplated action, and information fur- nished to the body from time to time so as to avoid complications and misunder- standings. This agreement shall be effective from February 10, 1920, and continue in full force and effect until matters in hand are completed. (Signed) TIMOTHY SHEA, Acting President, Brotherhood of Loco- motive Firemen and Enginemen. L. E. SHEPPARD, President, Order of Railway Conductors. J. W. KLINE, General President, International Broth- erhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers. W. H. JOHNSTON, International President, International As- sociation of Machinists. W. G. LEE, President, Brotherhood of Railway Train- men. LOUIS WEYAND, Acting International President, Interna- tional Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America. J. J. HYNES, International President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers’ International Al- liance. JAS. P. I^OQNAN, Digitized by VJ jQI

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284 The Railroad Telegrapher, International President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. MARTIN F. RYAN, General President, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America. S. E. HEBERLING, President, Switchmen's Union of North America. JAS. J. FORRESTER, Grand President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Hand- lers, Express and Station Employes. E. J. MANION, President, The Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers. D. W. KELT, President, Brotherhood of Railway Sig- nalmen of America. B. M. JEWELL, Acting President, Railway Employes De- partment, American Federation of La- bor. Washington, D. C., Feb. 6, 1920. Mr. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In conference yesterday between you and the chief executives of the several railway employes’ organiza- tions, you submitted several sheets con- taining statistics, which you stated were compiled from reports of the railroads to the Interstate Commerce Commission, with the statement that the figures were obtained from the most authentic source, ,and, therefore, you thought they reflect- ed approximately the correct wage in- creases given to railroad employes. To say that the method of compilation or the basis from which the figures are arrived at is misleading, is only stating a fact. To give these figures to the pub- lic will only cloud the issues and make it appear that railroad employes are re- ceiving adequate wages. We are convinced these figures do not reflect the true situation for the following reasons: (1) They embrace administrative railroad officials and others whose wages and hours of labor are fixed by the gen- eral officers of the railroads or Railroad Administration. They also embrace em- ployes whom we were not permitted to represent in negotiations with the rail- roads prior to or during the year ending 1915, as well as during our negotiations with the Railroad Administration. These classes of employes have generally re- ceived a larger increase than the em- ployes whom we have been or are per mitter to represent. (2) It is not proper to include over time when dealing with the basic daily or hourly rates. We should deal only with the standard measure of the recog- nized workday for the respective periods. Overtime is not desired by the employes and is or should be worked only when absolutely necessary. Excess rates are insisted upon by the employes for over time in order to eliminate all unneces- sary overtime. Inclusive of all hours worked will not reflect the true hourly or daily rate for the standard measure mitted to represent. (31 To include the reduction in the standard measure of the recognised workday as increase in rates of pay granted employes is to penalize em- ployes contrary to the principle estab- lished by the Railroad Administration in the issuance of General Order No. 27, ‘‘Reductions In hours between Decem- ber 31, 1915, and January 1, 1918. are not to be regarded as increases in pay." The reduction in hours was secured for the prime purpose of affording em- ployes additional time in order that they might enjoy some of the things that are essentially necessary for the well-being of mankind and to Increase their ability to render adequate service. (4) Increases in rates of pay cannot be based only upon the increased cost of living. No class of employes we repre- sent received an equitable wage during or prior to the year ending June 30, 1915. Consideration must also be given to "con- ditions arising from competition with em- ployes in other industries.” For the reasons set forth above we do not feel that it would be conducive to successful operation of the railroads or in the public interest to accept the data you submit as the basis of conclusion* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 285 as to Increases granted railroad em- ployes. Very truly yours, (Signed) E. J. MANION, President, Railroad Telegraphers. J. B. MALLOY, President, M. of W. E. & R. R. Shop Laborers. D. W. HELT, Railroad Signalmen of America. JAS. J. FORRESTER, Railway & Steamship Clerks. WM. H. JOHNSTON, President, Internationa! Association of Machinists. J. W. KUNE, General President, I. B. of Blacksmiths. JAS. P. NOONAN, International Pres., Electrical Workers.* W. S. STONE, Grand Chief Engineer, Brotherhood Loco- motive Engineers. TIMOTHY SHEA, Acting President, Locomotive Firemen and Bnginemen. It, E. SHEPPARD. President, Order of Railway Conductors. VAL. FITZPATRICK, Acting President of Railroad Trainmen. S. E. HEBERLING,' President, Switchmen's Union. LOUIS WEYAND, Acting President, Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders. J. J. HYNES, International President, American Sheet Metal Workers. MARTIN F. RYAN, 'General President, Railway Carmen. B. M. JEWELL, Acting President, Railway Employes De- partment, American Federation of La- bor. Washington, D. C., Feb. 9, 1920. Mr. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In response to your tele- gram of January 23d, reading in part as follows: "Last summer nearly all classes of railroad employes sought general in- creases in rates of pay. These requests have since been and are now in abeyance ip accordance with the policy announced on August 26th. Within the past few weeks inquiries have been received from the chief executives of nearly all rail- road labor organizations as to the status of these matters and I believe it will con- duce to a clearer understanding to have a personal discussion in regard to them. It is also desirable to discuss them all to- gether at a meeting attended by the rep- resentatives of the various organizations of railroad labor. I would therefore like for you to attend such a meeting at my office Tuesday, February 3d.” All the recognized railroad' organiza- tions were represented and the confer-' ences began on the above date. In your memorandum read at these con- ferences, you state, in part: “I wish to state my distinct conviction that the present cost of living cannot be regarded as permanent, and that it is even more clear now than it was last summer that the cost of living will soon reach lower levels.” After a further extended summary of the situation you state: “I belive more than one leader of or- ganized labor has frankly expressed the view that a general increase in wages will not effectively solve the problem.” Then, in conclusion, you suggest three methods of procedure, as follows: (1) “One is for the railroad employes themselves to defer for a reasonable ad- ditional period the question of general increases in wages, awaiting further light as to the permanency, of the present cost of living levels.” (2) “The second is to defer the mat- ter at least until adoption of legislation which apparently will be adopted soon for the purpose of presenting it for con- sideration of the tribunals which will then probably be created in some form to deal with this problem.” (3) “The third is for me to co-operate with the railroad employes in finding a method at present to begin a careful study of the facts with a view to expe- diting to that extent the final considera- tion of the problem.” Digitized by Google

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286 The Kailkoad Telegkapheu. At the conclusion of reading this pa- per you requested full and frank di^ cuss ion, and we pointed out the follow- ing facts: (1) August 25th President Wilson re- quested that the Government be giten a reasonable time to establish success or failure in its efforts to reduce the cost of living, and if then failure resulted railroad employes’ wages should be in- creased. (2) Railroad labor felt the position taken by the President was wrong, in that he should have been willing to grant them immediate relief by increases in rates of pay, which would have placed them on an equal plane with labor in other industries where similar services are required and rendered, and estab- lished an equitable wage upon the true American standard of living and in keep- ing with the service required and hazards assumed. (3) Then, after placing railroad labor upon this equal basis with other labor and in a position to live rather than merely exist, effective efforts to reduce the cost of living should be made. (4) Notwithstanding this keen disap- pointment railroad labor has waited near- ly six months, bearing the unequal bur- den, and now the Government has failed to reduce the cost of living. (6) Congress has failed to meet the emergency, notwithstanding the fact that the President, in his message on August 8th, dealt with the high cost of living quite thoroughly and made concrete recommendations as to legislation, as follows : (a) Extension of the life of the Lever Food Control Act to the date of the rati- fication of the Peace Treaty. (b) Broadening of the scope of the Lever Food Control Act to include cloth- ing, fuel and feed, as well as food. (c) An amendment of the Lever Food Control Act to include penalties for profiteering practices. (d) A law limiting the period during which goods may be kept in cold storage ; also a law requiring that prices at which goods are placed in storage be marked upon them. (e) A law requiring that all goods destined for interstate commerce shall be marked with the price at which they left the hands of the producer. (f) A law licensing and regulating corporations engaged in interstate com- merce to prevent unconscionable profits. (g) A law providing for the control of security issues to prevent speculation. In this same message he also outlined the immediate policy of the Government in its efforts to deal with profiteering in the following items: (a) Selling at cost of surplus of food and clothing in the hands of the Govern- ment. (b) The limitation of wheat exports and of foreign credits. (c) The removal of food from stor- age so far as existing statutes allowed, and the prosecution of those engaged in hoarding. (d) Prosecution of those who seek to control the supplies and prices in con- travention of the Lever Act. Again, on December 2d, President Wil- son addressed Congress on the cost of living, making further recommendations as to legislation, after forcefully calling attention to the failure to act upon his former message. These recommendations were as follows: (a) The extension of the Lever Food Control Act for a period of six months after the signing of the Peace Treaty. (b) The renewal of recommendations that regulations and provisions be made for goods destined for interstate com- merce, and stated there is “no other way of striking at the manipulation of prices by the withholding of foodstuffs.” (c) He urged publicity regarding profit- eering, economy and an appropriation for it; also a law regulating cold ptorage practices, modeled on the New Jersey law, and Federal licensing for corpora- tions engaged in interstate commerce. In considering the President’s policy as announced August 26th, railroad labor had carefully analyzed the President’s message of August 8th and expected that Digitized by Google

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 287 Congress and the Government would af- ford some immediate relief. With this in mind railroad labor willingly agreed to wait a reasonable time. However, Con- gress and other Federal authorities have failed to afford the relief, and the cost of living has not been reduced, but, on the contrary, has advanced. In reference to the conviction which you have expressed that the cost of liv- ing will reach lower levels, we are fully aware that the statistics of index num- bers of prices at this season of the year customarily show a temporary reduc- tion. This has been the case, as you know, even during the period of the war, when the cost of living was constantly mounting. These reduction are but temporary, extending over a few weeks, and are due to market conditions during such periods and do not indicate any permanent tendency. Thus far in this year the acuteness of the present in- creases is emphasized by the fact that these temporary changes have not even been indicated, but if they should ap- pear all students of prices realize they are but temporary. Much prominence has been given to the activities of the'’ Department of Jus- tice in eliminating profiteering and re- ducing prices, but so far their efforts have been ineffective and the most au- thoritative sources of information in in- dustry and commerce instead of holding forth any hope of a reduction through these agencies in the future claim that they will be a failure, and prices will be higher next year than this. You have also made reference to the fact that the present demoralization of foreign exchange will react upon the markets of our own country by throwing some goods upon the market and reduc- ing prices. Upon serious reflection, how- ever, we fell sure that you will agree with us in concluding that the possibility of any price reduction in this connection is very remote and would afford no perma- nent benefit for two reasons: (1) Under our present system of arbitrary price con- trol and profiteering it would require a much larger supply of goods than these foreign exports to demoralize the system, and (2) to assume that we would reduce prices permanently by this method would be equivalent to saying that we shall permanently refuse to fulfill ouf ob- ligations to the impoverished people of Europe by failing to send them needed food and supplies. Undoubtedly our in- ternational obligations will soon lead to the adoption of proper measures for stabilization of exchange. You suggest gathering data showing the basis rates of 1915 and 1919. This is not necessary in our opinion. For at least two years agencies of the Govern- ment created to deal with the railroad problem have been gathering data, much of which has beqp submitted to your Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions several months ago and is now a matter of record with the United States Railroad Administration. To all of our requests for Immediate relief you answer by saying that it is a physical impossibility to comply on ac- count of the apparent immediate end of Government control. We do not desire to do anything which will interfere with continued operation of the systems of transportation and distribution, but we must have relief from the present un- fair and impossible burdens of railroad labor. With this thought uppermost In our minds, may we ask that you prompt- ly advise if you will join us in the fol- lowing recommendations to the Presi- dent: (1) That railroad wages be promptly adjusted by the President (a) so as to equal the wages paid in other industries where similar or analogous service is ren- dered; (b) to meet the increased cost of living; (c) wherever the application of the two foregoing principles does not yield an adequate wage, to establish an equitable and living minimum wage based upon American standard of living, with proper differentials, having regard for skill, hazard and responsibility. (By the term “equitable and living minimum wage” we do not mean a mere subsist- ence wage, but a minimum wage suffi cient to maintain a railroad ra? ** Digitized by Google

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288 The Bailboad Telegbapheb. age family on a standard of health and reasonable comfort, and in addition en- able him to set aside a sufficient amount for old age and disability.) And (d) all of the above adjustments by the Presi- dent to be effective as of May 1, 1919, to those employes in service on that date and to those who entered since that date and remain in railroad service until Feb- ruary 29, 1920. (2) That the President urge Congress promptly to pass necessary legislation to make possible, among other things, re- duction in the cost of living, elimination of profiteering, excessive profits, inter- ference with distribution by hoarding, speculation in futures, proper restriction of exports. This is to be4 given precedence over any and all other legislation. (3) The departments of the Govern- ment to be organized in such a way as to secure the fullest co-operation in re- duction of cost of living as is permitted by present laws and in keeping with the powers of the Government to meet an extreme emergency. Your co-operation in this will be great- ly appreciated. Respectfully yours, E. J. M ANION, President, Order of Railroad Telegraph- ers. D. W. HELT, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Sig- nalmen of America. J. J. FORRESTER, Grand President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Hand- lers, Express and Station Employes. WM. H. JOHNSTON, International President, International As- sociation of Machinists. J. W. KLINE, Grand President, International Brother- hood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers of America. J. P. NOONAN, International President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. W. S. STONE, (By E. Corrigan), Grand Chief Engineer, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. TMOTHY SHEA, Acting President, Brotherhood of Loco- motive Firemen and Enginemen. L. E. SHEPPARD, President, Order of Railway Conductors. S. E. HEBBRUN*,' President, Switchmen’s Union of North America. LOUIS WBYAND, Acting International President, Interna- tional Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Irin Ship Builders and Helpers of America. J. J. HYNES, International President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers’ International Al- liance. MARTIN F. RYAN, General President, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America. B. M. JEWELL, Acting President, Railway Employes’ De- partment, A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., Feb. 11, 1920. Mr. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Supplementing our letter presented to yon on February 10th, we wish most earnestly to submit for . your consideration what we conceive to be the fundamental injustice in the present disposition of the railroad problem. Under private operation the railroads were unable to meet the emergency aris- ing out of the war and the President took charge of them to assist in winning the war. The Government guaranteed to railroad capital a return based upon an average pre-war earning without any provisions for adequate treatment to railroad labor. Preparations are. now being made In legislative form by which the period of Government control is to be terminated and the transportation industry returned to its private owners, with all its re- sources unimpaired and with careful pro* visions for protection of capital and no provisions for protection of labor. The fundamental theory underlying the present action by the Congress is that the war was an emergency period in which the transportation facilities were to be used for the common good and Digitized by (j ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 289 were to be returned, unimpaired, at the termination of the war period. On the other hand, while this action is being taken to rehabilitate the transportation industry and guarantee the integrity of invested capital, no measures are being put forward for the protection of railroad labor. We feel sure that you will agree with os that the human element, from a broad standpoint, is of more importance than the corporate factors in the transporta- tion industry. We believe, however, that if the corporate element is to be recog- nized the human element should receive like recognition and treatment. At the present time, however, when every pro- vision is being made to recompense cap- ital we find that railroad employes are not earning a sufficient wage to even maintain pre-war standards and that many of these employes are not earning an amount sufficient to maintain a stand- ard of living above a mere subsistence leveL In the light of this deplorable situa- tion, we earnestly appeal to you, as Di- rector General, and, through you, to the President, on the ground that it is your solemn duty to take such action before the termination of public control as will result in restoring the earning power of railroad employes and establish a basic minimum wage which will secure to all railroad employes at least the guarantee of a living wage sufficient to maintain their families on a basis of health and reasonable comfort. Irrespective of the devotion and sac- rifice of railway employes during the war, we cannot escape the conviction that you, as Director General, should consider it a privilege to be the instru- ment for bringing about the same guar- antees to railway labor, as a condition precedent to the return of the railroads, as are being extended to railway capital by legislation proposed in Congress. The primary objects put forward in the pending railroad legislation are two- fold: (1) To make financial provision by which the railroads have been under Government control since January 1, 1918, shall be returned to their private owners unimpaired; and (2), to enact financial arrangements by which even the roads that were financially weak or impoverished before the war shall he placed upon a financial basis, guarantee- ing to capital a minimum fetum. We consider it your duty to see that the same principles which are to be ap- plied by Congress to invested capital, or the mere physical elements in the trans- portation industry, be also applied by you to the employes, or the human ele- ment. • During the period of the war railroad employes, as you know, gave themselves without reservation to the service of their country. They did not consider the war a period for making excessive wages. Neither did they consider it a period for profiteering, but rather a time for patriotic service and sacrifice. They felt that when the emergency was passed and the public had time to consider the facts, any inequalities from which rail- road employes suffered would be recti- fied. As a consequence they continued at their posts during the period of Gov- ernment control despite the fact (1) that their rates of pay had not been increased proportinately with the cost of living since 1914, and (2) without regard to the fact that employes in similar work in other industries had received much higher rates of pay than railroad work- ers; and we must now insist that the obligations of the Railroad Administra- tion be promptly met In the third place, we would direct your attention to the fact that in the case of a great many classes of railroad em- % ployes the purchasing power of their earnings before the war was not suffi- cient to maintain even a mere subsist- ence standard of living for their families, not to mention a level of living of health and comfort. To increase the rates of pay which these employes received be- fore the war to correspond with the in- crease in prices since the beginning of the war would be merely equivalent to perpetuating inadequate and deplor- able standards of living which prevailed Digitized by VjOOQle

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290 The Railkoad Telegrapher prior to the outbreak of hostilities. These employes should, therefore, just as In the case of the railroads which were financially weak in 1914, be rehabilitated or placed on a sound and just basis of earnings. Considerations of elementary^ econo- mic justice absolutely require that these groups of railroad employes, irrespec- tive of wage increases received during the war period, should now, when the war emergency is passed, have their rateB of pay adjusted to the basis of a living wage as a preliminary to the re- turn of the railroads to private owner- ship, or, in other words, that they should now be assured rates of pay which would enable them to support their families, both now and in the future on a basis of health and reasonable comfort. Railroad companies, according to the plans of pending legislation, which were operated at a financial loss before the war, are now to be placed upon a finan- cial basis which will guarantee substan- tial returns to capital, whether earned or not. By a similar method of reason- ing railroad employes who were inade- quately paid before the war likewise should be placed by the United States Government upon a proper wage which will enable them to meet all their legiti- mate and necessary obligations. The Railroad Administration or the public cannot and should not wish to take tlfe attitude of rehabilitating and guaranteeing returns to railroad capital without at the same time establishing adequate wage for all railroad em- ployes. In other words, a guarantee by the public of a return to all forms of rail- way investments should carry the obliga- tion of a fair return to railroad labor. Respectfully yours, (Signed) E. J. MANION, President, Order of Railroad Telegraph- ers. D. W. HELT, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Sig- nalmen of America. JAS. J. FORRESTER, Grand President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Hand- lers, Express and Station Employes. WM. H. JOHNSTON, International President, International As- sociation of Machinists. J. W. KLINE, Grand President, Internationa] Brother- hood of Blacksmiths. JAS. P. NOONAN, International Pres., Electrical Workers. TIMOTHY SHEA, Acting President, Brotherhood of Loco- motive Firemen and Enginemen. L. E. SHEPPARD, President, Order of Railway Conductors. S. E. HEBERLING, President, Switchmen’s Union of North America. LOUIS WEYAND, Acting International President, Interna- tional Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America. J. J. HYNES, International President, Sheet Metal Workers. MARTIN F. RYAN. ' General President, Carmen. B. M. JEWELL, Acting President, Railway Employes’ Dept., A. F. of L. Washington, D. C., Feb. 12, 1920. The President, The White House. Dear Mr. President: Almost without exception the numerous classes of the two million railroad employes are press- ing for substantial increases in wages and the very few classes not pressing such demands are insisting that their wages must be increased if the demands of other related classes are granted in whole or in part. These demands were presented to the Railroad Administration's Board of Rail- road Wages and Working Condition, be- ginning with the latter part of last sum- mer and continuing through the falL So far as the demands- were for general in- creases in wages, they were held in abey- ance in accordance with your policy an- nounced last summer that the permanent general wage increases ought not to be Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 291 made until there had been a reasonable opportunity to determine whether the then prevailing high level of the cost of living was of a temporary character. The demands, as far as they were based on claims of inequality with other classes of railroad employes, were considered by the Board. The demands of the shop men were based largely on the cost of living and on the claim that similar employes in outside industries are receiving higher wages. The Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen's claim was based largely on the cost of living and on the claim that the wages paid did not constitute a living wage for the employes. The conductors demanded material increases for all classes and the continuation of the differ- entials compared with the brakemen as established by the present wage orders. The clerks' organization claimed that employes represented by them had not received increases equal to those granted to the shop men and to the telegraphers. The maintenance of way employes and engine house laborers claimed that they had not received equal treatment with the shop men and particularly that they had not received equal treatment with maintenance of equipment mechanics. The firemen claimed that the train and engine employes had not received in- creases proportional to those granted to shopmen and referred particularly to the increases granted to carmen. The switch- men did not make any claim as to in- equality, but based their request for in- creased wages on the cost of living and the necessity for employes having a min- imum wage. The telegraphers demanded that their rates be standardized with a resulting increase to nearly all of them. As illustrating the complexity and wide scope of these matters, the labor members of the Board, in suggesting a basis they thought would bring about equalization, estimated that the cost of such equalization would be approxi- mately $375,000,000 per annum. This figure was arrived at by taking the aver- age monthly increase of a small group of railroad employes, embracing only about 5 per cent 0 the total number of railroad employes, and estimating how much additional increase in money per month it would be necessary tow give the other classes of railroad employes in order to equalize on certain theories with this small group. Even this small group is now demanding large increases. This figure of $376,000,000 is much less than the employes are demanding. Broadly speaking, the increase of each one cent per hour for all railroad em- ployes of all classes would, with allow- ance for incidental overtime, cost con- siderable in excess of $50,000,000 per year. The following indicates the prin- cipal, but not all, ot the contentions ad- vanced by the principal classes of the railroad employes involved: The Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. Passenger Brakemen be increased from $120 per 30-day month to $150 for 26-day month. Baggagemen be increased from $124.80 for 30-day month to $160 for 26-day month. 7 Assistant Conductors be increased from $144 for 30-day month to $179 for 26-day month. Freight Brakemen in valley territory be increased from $4.08 per day to $5.88 per day with 10 per cent increase over these rates wherever the grade exceeds 1.8 per cent. Yard Foremen or Conductors be in- creased from $5.33 per day to $7.20 per day. Yard Helpers or Brakemen be in- creased from* $5.00 per day to $6.90 per day. Switch Tenders be increased from $4.00 per day to $5.90 per day. Also time and one-half for all Sunday and holiday service. Also guarantee of 26 days per month for regular employes in all classes of serv- ice. The Order of Railway Conductors. Passenger Conductors be increased from $180 per 30-day month to $225 for 26-day month. Through-freight Conductors be in- creased from $5.40 per day to $7.65 per day in valley territory, with increases in Digitized by VjOOQle

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292 The Railroad Telegrapher. the mountain rate from $5.81 to $8.37 per day. Local' freight rates be increased from $5.92 to $8.38 per day in valley territory, with increase in mountain rate from $6.26 to $9.13 per day. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Fire* men and Enginemen. Hoad Freight Firemen to be increased an average of $1.84 per day over present rates. Yard Freight Firemen to be increased an average of $2.25 per day over present rates. Passenger Firemen to be increased from present average rate of $4.31 per day to $6.50 per day, an increase of $2.19 per day. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engi- neers. While presenting no specific requests, notice was served that the engineers de- sired increases in wages proportionate to any increases granted other employes. All road employes, as distinguished from yard employes, in the four fore- going organizations, get proportionately increased pay per day when they make mileage in excess of 100 miles and in freight service get time And one-half for time consumed in excess of what would be required on the guaranteed speed basis, which is 2% miles per hour. The Switchmen’s Union of America. Foremen or Conductors be increased from $5.33 per day and night to $8.00 per night and $7.50 per day. Helpers or Brakemen be increased from $5.00 per day or night to $7.50 per night and $7.00 per day. Switch Tenders to receive same rate as helpers. Time and one-half for Sundays and holidays. Maintenance of Way and Enginehouse Laborers. Rate for all mechanics in the mainten- ance of way department to be increased from basic rate of 53 cents per hour to uniform rate of 68 cents per hour. Rate for all trackmen and other labor- ers to be increased from rates running from 28 cents to 40 cents per hour to a uniform rate throughout the United States of 50 cents per hour. The bulk of these employes now receive between 35 cents and 40 cents. Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen of America. An increase of approximately 10 cents per hour for each class of signal em- ployes. The Brotherhood of Railroad Clerks. An increase in pay of at least 20 cents per hour retroactive to January 1, 1920, and in addition thereto the re-establish- ment of differentials between certain classes of employes. Also the immediate elimination of the present wage orders, for freight handlers and other labor in freight houses, store- rooms, etc., and time and one-half for Sundays and holidays. The Order of Railroad Telegraphers. That the rates received by telegraphers on the Southern Pacific System, which was stated to be practically the highest in the United States, on any important railroad, shall be taken as a basis, the rates of all other telegraphers put on the same basis, and then an increase of 17 cents per hour added to rates so es- tablished. The equalization alone, leav- ing out the addition of the 17 cents per hour additional, would cost the railroads approximately $13,000,000 per annum, and the 17 cents per hour increase would mean $36,000,000 per annum addltionaL Shopmen. Increase to approximately 85 cents per hour for employes now generally receiv- ing 67 cents and* 72 cents per hour. Most of these general requests were, however, held in suspense on account of the policy established in August, and in- stead claims were urged for smaller in- creases on the basis of inequalities. As a further illustration of the difficult labor problems which confronted the Railroad administration and which had to be handled during the period since last August, both by the Board and h y the Divisions of Operation and Labor and the Director General himself, I call at- tention to the following labor subjects of special importance which were disposed of during that perioSP Their disposition. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railboad Telegbapheb. 293 In addition to taking much time of the Board, had occupied the wage experts of the Division of Labor and Operation, and to a considerable extent the heads of those Divisions, and almost continuous conferences from the latter of August to the end of January. L On September 20, 1919, and ef- fective October 20, 1919, there was signed between the Director General and the shop crafts a national agreement to re- main in effect during Federal control, which standardized rules and working conditions for the employes working on the railroads and belonging to those or- ganizations. It created machinery for the settlement of all disputes, made nu- merous other changes of importance to the employes, and provided that the agreement should not be ended except on 30 days notice. 2. On November 22, 1919, and effective December 16, 1919, a national agreement was signed between the Director General and the United Brotherhood of Mainten- ance of Way Employes and Railway Shop Laborers, which for the first time stand- ardized rules and working conditions for such employes, put into effect time and one-half for overtime after eight hours, and established rules upon seniority, dis- cipline, eta The existing wage orders were incorporated in this agreement and were to be changed only as provided in the agreement, and the agreement was to be effective during Federal control and provided that there be no change in it until after 30 days notice had been given by either party. 3. On January 13, 1920, effective Jan- uary 1, 1920, a national agreement was made between the Director General and the Brotherhood of Railroad and Steam- ship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and 8tation Employes, which standard- ized rules and working conditions for inch employes, established time and one- half for overtime after eight hours, and made various important changes in work- ing conditions. This agreement was to remain in effect during Federal control unless changed after 30 days notice. 4. On January 22, 1920, effective Feb- ruary 1, 1920, a national agreement was signed between the Director General and the employes represented by the Broth- erhood of ’Railroad Signalmen of Amer- ica, which established time and one-half for overtime after eight hours and standardized rules and working condi- tions. This agreement was to be effec- tive during Federal control and was to remain in effect until abrogated on 30 days notice by either side. 6. Effective January 16, 1920, a na- tional agreement was signed between the Director General and the International Brotherhood of Firemen and Oilers, which standardized rules and working conditions for such employes and put into effect time and one-half for over- time after eight hours. This agreement was to remain in effect during Federal control unless it should be changed on 30 days notice by either side. t 6. On December 15, 1919, and effoctive December 1, 1919, an order was made under which time and one-half for over- time was made effective for train and enginemen in slow freight service. Un- der this arrangement ail arbitraries and special allowances formerly applicable between terminals were eliminated. Spe- cial allowances for switching and similar work at Initial terminals were preserved, but at the former rates. A standard held-away-from-home terminal rule was granted. This disposed of the problem which had been in dispute for many years between this class of employes and the railroad managements, and which had been before the Railroad Adminis- tration in one form or another practically since its inoeption. The important steps just enumerated have not only greatly improved and es- tablished working conditions, but have given various important classes of the employes, and especially train and en- ginemen and maintenance of way men, numerous, benefits of substantial pecu- niary value, largely in the way of addi- tional pay for overtime aggregating per- haps from $60,000,000 to $65,000,000 per year which they have only begun obtain- ing within the last one or two months. Digitized by Google

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294 The Railroad Telegraphek. The pending demands which I have enumerated were, ac above stated, con- sidered by the Board so far as they were regarded as constituting claims of in- equalities. But the claims were so ex- tensive, rested upon such divers and elaborate data, and were so far from con- sistent, that the Board was not able to agree upon any recommendations what- ever as to any of them and the various members were not able to submit even their individual views until the latter part of November and during the month of December. By reason of the com- plexity and conflicting character of the claims, and of the divers views of the members of the Board, the matter called for elaborate analysis by the Divisions of Labor and of Operation, and could not pos- sibly be gotten ready for even by pre- liminary consideration until the end of January. By that time the employes had begun anew to insist that these matters ought to be considered not only on the basis of inequalities, but on the basis of needed general increases to meet the increased cost of living, the wages paid in other industries, provision of a rea- sonable minimum wage, etc. In such cir- cumstances it became evident to me, and to all of my associates in the Division of Labor and of Operation, that the mat- ers were so inter-related that they could not be dealt with except by viewing the question as one of general adjustment of railroad wages, on consideration of the whole situation, and that it would be a physical impossibility for the Railroad Administration, prior to its loss of juris- diction on February 20, to act with final- ity. A conference was arranged with the chief executives of all of the principal railroad labor organizations to consider this situation and to discuss the ques- tion of an appropriate procedure for dealing justly with the matter. This con- ference began on February 3, and has continued up to this time in an effort to clarify the facts and reach a clear under- standing. The conference has proved exceedingly valuable, and has paved the way, I believe, for a much more expedit- ious handling of the situation than would have otherwise been possible. At the same time I have become more con- vinced than ever that the subject can- not be intelligently and Justly dealt with, except in a comprehensive way, which will include consideration of all pertinent factors, among these being the matter of average wages for analogous service in other industries throughout the coun- try, the question of the cost of living, and the question of a reasonable min- imum wage, as well as the claims as to inequalities. So far, the Railroad Admin- istration has not been in a position to consider any of these matters except the questions of inequalities, which have speedily become so far reaching as to convert themselves into the more gen- eral question. The fact is that the problem in its pres- ent dimensions covers the entire field of railroad wages. The hopelessness of dealing vttth it through consideration of claims pressed by the employes on the ground of inequalities has been thor- oughly demonstrated by the experience of the Railroad Administration. Prac- tically every class of railroad employes has felt that some other class has re- ceived more favorable treatment and has cqmplained accordingly, and has present- ed plausible arguments in support of his claim. The result is that the Wage Board composed of experts representing both the management and the employes, has been wholly unable to agree upon a single one of these cases. My discussions of the past week have made it clear that even if there were time to reach conclusions which would call for readjustments as to particular 'classes, this would be wholly unsatisfactory as to the other classes and would make no progress toward a complete solution. These diffi- cult conditions are the inevitable out- growth of the radical changes which have taken place in wage levels both on - the railroads and in all other industries as a result of the conditions created by the war, and nothing short of the com- prehensive action which I recommend can be expected to compose the situa- tion. Suggestion has been made that this matter should be temporarily d©aN Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 295 with by a uniform or flat increase of a certain number of cents per hour to all railroad employes. My study of the general situation has convinced me that no such action would be justified and it would merely accentuate the complaints as to the inequalities, and that matter must be disposed of upon the broad gen- eral issues. As to the three important general is- sues thus presented, the situation at the moment is as follows: There is no show- ing now before the Railroad Administra- tion upon the basis of which a correct conclusion could be immediately drawn as to the average wages paid through- out the United States in private indus- tries for service similar to those ren- dered by railroad employes or for meas- uring reasonably the degree and extent of similarity. There is no showing be- fore the Railroad Administration from which could 'be immediately deducted a just conclusion as to what is a fair min- imum wage to be used for application throughout fhe country. The showings as to the extent of the increase in the cost of living and as to the extent of the increase of wages of railroad employes are not entirely agreed upon and a just conclusion in regard to them cannot be reached immediately. I believe all these matters can be promptly cleared up by the adoption of the course which I recom- mend, but It is impossible to conduct such inquiries to the point of comple- tion and final action in regard thereto prior to March 1. It is impossible for the Railroad Ad- ministration to dispose of such compre- hensive and far-reaching problems in the remaining seventeen days in which it will have jurisdiction and with such an expiring jurisdiction the Railroad Admin- istration could not justify itself to the country in settling permanently for the future a problem of this character which involves so much both to railroad em- ployes and the public, which in some form must bear the cost of railroad wages. While I am not able, and ought not, to prejudice the question when T am pre- cluded from assuming jurisdiction to de- cide them, and while 1 feel that many classes of railroad employes are ufider misconceptions which will largely be re- moved as a result of a comprehensive disposition which alone can settle the matter, it is only fair to point out in behalf of the employes that they feel greatly concerned on account of exist- ing conditions. Many employes feel that they are less well paid than workmen in other industries; many feel that other railroad employes have received more favorable treatment; many feel that they do not receive sufficient to enable them to maintain a fair standard of liv- ing. Each group of employes naturally thinks only of its own problems and does not appreciate how much more difficult that problem is made by the claims as- serted by the other groups. The em- ployes, of course, are unable to under- stand why these matters have not al- ready been settled. They anticipate great delay on account of the transition to new methods of procedure. I am convinced that it will be impos- sible to arrive at a satisfactory status in this matter until the pending problems can be passed upon by agencies appro- priate to deal with them after the ex- piration of the present Federal control, and I am equally convinced that it will not only be fair to the employes but dis- tinctly in the public interest to take such steps at present as will insure the promptest possible disposition and the avoidance of delay which otherwise would be incident to the necessary ter- mination of the jurisdiction of the Rail- road Administration. I therefore recommend that you in dicate your purpose to cause the forma- tion at the earliest possible date of a tribunal with power to carry these mat- ters to a conclusion, such tribunal to be formed by voluntary action, if a tribunal is not created by law. I further advise that you promptly appoint a committee of wage experts to take available data and deduce therefrom as soon aB prac- ticable the facts pertinent to this prob- lem. The reports of such a committee Digitized by Googk

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296 The Bailroad Telegrapher. will serve as a guide to you in carrying out the policy which you announced last summer to see that justice was done to the railroad employes, and I believe will greatly expedite the disposition of the matter. I think an effort should be made to get the railroad corporations to co- operate in the formation of this com- mittee. The employes are apprehensive that there will be further delay which may be of an indefinite character merely to await future development concerning the cost of living, and it seems to me that they ought to be reassured on this point. My thought is that if the Railroad Ad- ministration were a continuing author- ity, it should now take the position that these broad wages questions should, without being further held in suspense, be carried to a conclusion as soon as the available evidence on all the general mat- ters so far held in abeyance could be duly considered. I believe the same pol- icy will be reasonable under private con- trol, and in fact, that it will be in the public Interest to get these matters put at rest as soon as possible. 1 am aware that some elements of the public may criticize the recommenda- tions I make on the ground that the Railroad Administration ought to decide these matters finally and not leave them open to be dealt with after the railroad companies resume control. This criti* cism, however, would not be warranted by the conditions because, first, it is physically impossible for the Railroad Administration to dispose of these mat- ters; second, to the extent that the Rail- road Administration might hurriedly dis- pose of them adversely to the employes, the disposition would not be final and they would .immediately be presented under conditions of great discontent to the railroad corporations and would be pressed for early decision; and third, to the extent that decision might hurriedly be rendered by the Railroad Adminis- tration in favor of employes, such de- cision would be strongly resented by the public on the ground that a matter of such importance, which involves exclu- sively the future of relations of railroad employes to railroad transportation, ought not to be settled with finality by a temporary Governmental agency whose jurisdiction is on the point of terminat- Cordially yours, (Signed) WALKER D. HINES. THE WHITE HOUSE. Washington, D. CL, Feb. IS, 1920. Gentlemen: I address you as the Chief Executives of the largest railroad organizations, which are among the most important industrial democracies in the country. I ask you to bring this mes- sage and its enclosure to the attention of your members cn all the railroads, to the end that they, at first hand, may understand the Government’s views as to the present situation. I am confident that with this personal understanding on their part they will see that the position of the Government is not only just to all interests, but is, indeed, unalterable, and also protects the interests of the railroad employes. The fundamental the- ory of labor organizations is that their membership is Intelligent and capable of reaching enlightened conclusions, and I think it is of paramount importance at the present time that this great body of American citizens shall have the fullest opportunity personally to consider the nar tional problem of railroad wages in its national aspect and shall not in the ab- sence of this opportunity form erroneous impressions on the basis of local or frag- mentary information. . I have received two letters on this gen- eral subject signed by all but two of the executives to whom this letter is ad- dressed. I have read those letters with the greatest care and have taken them fully into consideration. On the 25th of last August, I publicly announced the conviction that a large permanent and general Increase in rail- road wages ought not to be made upon the basis of the level of the cost of liv- ing then prevailing if that cost of living level were to be merely temporary, and I counselled railroad employes to hold their demands in abeyance until the time should arrive when it could reasonably be determined whether that level of the

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 207 cost of living was temporary or not They have patriotically and patiently pursued this course and in general have shown an admirable spirit in doing so. I then anticipated and made it clear in my public statement that the time for determining whether or not the level of the cost of living was such as to be the basis of a readjustment of wages might not arrive until after the expiration of Federal control and accordingly gave my assurance to the railroad employes that in that event I would continue to use the influence of the Executive to see that justice was done them. Federal control will .end in sixteen days and in accordance with the policy as explained to the employes, it is now eminently reasonable and proper that I take such steps as will reassure them that their claims will be properly and promptly disposed of. This is all the more necessary because inevitably the change from Federal control to private oontrol will in the absence of special provision involve delay in dealing with these matters which would not be other- wise than disquieting to the employes. 1 wish, therefore, to announce to all railroad employes at this time that I propose to carry out the following steps: 1. In the event that in connection with the return to private oontrol provision shall be made by law for machinery for dealing with railroad wage matters. I shall promptly use my influence and so far as such law confers power upon me, I shall promptly exercise that power, to bring about the earliest practicable or- ganization of the machinery thus pro- vided. 2. In the event that no such provision is made by law for dealing with these matters, I shall employ the influence of the Executive to get the railroad com- panies and the railroad employes to Join promptly in the creation of a tri- bunal to take up these problems and carry them to a conclusion. 3. I shall at once constitute a commit- tee of experts to take the data already available in the various records of the United States Railroad Administration, including the records of the Lane Com- mission and of the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions and to analyze the same so as to develop in the shortest possible time the facts bearing upon a just and reasonable basis of wages for the various classes of railroad employes with due regard to all factors reasonably bearing upon the problem and specifically to the factors of the average of wages paid for similar or analogous labor for other industries in this country, the cost of living and a fair living wage, so as to get the problems in shape fbr the earliest possible final disposition. The views of this board will serve as a guide to me in carrying out the assur- ance I gave to the employes last summer that I would use the full influence of the executive to see that justice was done them and will, I believe, by a means of avoiding what might be a long drawn out investigation of facts. While I propose to act at once in regard to this matter, and to avoid any delay in doing so, I shall, nevertheless, invite the co-opera- tion of the railroad corporations and be- lieve they will appreciate that it is to their interest, as well as to the public in- terest, to get these matters promptly settled. I am sure it will be apparent to all reasonable men and women in railroad service that these momentous matters must be handled by an agency which can continue to function after March 1, and therefore cannot at the present stage be handled to a conclusion by the Railroad Administration. The accompanying report, which the Director-General of Railroads has made to me, makes it clear that it has been wholly impracticable for the Railroad Ad- ministration to dispose of these matters up to the present time. Not only were the demands for general wage increases necessarily held in abeyance by reason of the policy announced by the Govern- ment last summer, but the demands for increases to correct inequalities were so general and far reaching as to become in themselves demands for general wage in- creases and were so complex and con- Digitized by (j oogle

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298 ThK KaILUOAD TeLKOUAI'IIKK. dieting that despite continuous applica- tion on the part of the Board of Raiiroad Wages and Working Conditions and the other agencies of the Railroad Adminis- tration, the subjects could not be pre- sented for even preliminary considera- tion by the Director General until the present month, and then in an incom- plete form and with a lack of ability on the part of the Wage Board to reach an agreement growing out of the largely conflicting condition of the data as pre- sented. Not quite six months have elapsed since I expressed my belief and hope that the then high cost of living could be regarded only as temporary. This high cost of living (which in some respects has become even higher, but in other re- spects has already begun to respond to the corrective factors which have been and are at work) is ^the product of in- numerable influences, many of them of world wide operation. In the nature of things these readjustments could not come with rapidity. The campaign which the Government has inaugurated to aid in controlling the cost of living has been steadily galqing in momentum, will con- tinue to be aggressively conducted, and I believe will have an increasingly bene- ficial effect, and this notwithstanding the fact that some of the most needed remedial measures which I recommended to Congress have not been adopted. How- ever, preparation, consideration and dis- position of these important wage matters ought not, in my opinion, to be postponed for a further indefinite period, and I be- lieve the matters Involved ought to be taken up and disposed of on their merits at the earliest practicable time. Pending the consideration of these problems by the Director General of Railroads and by me, at least one class of railroad employes had indicated Its unwillingness to await a conclusion and has announced its intention of striking. A strike of railroad employes would at any time be highly injurious to the pub- lic and particularly at this time would be harmful not only to the entire country, but to the railroad employes as well. nv interruption of transportation will, of course, have a serious adverse effect upon the industrial life of the nation at a peculiarly critical period. Under the circumstances, therefore, I have the right to request and I do request that any railroad labor organization which has a strike order outstanding shall withdraw such order immediately and await the orderly solution of this question. The railroad men of America have stood loyally by their Goveramfent throughout the war, they must in the public interest and In their own interest continue to do so during this delicate period of readjustment. I believe that eyery intelligent railroad employe will recognize the extreme im- portance of continued co-operation with the Government in this matter, and that any other course will prove not only a grave injury to the public, of which rail- road labor tifsuch an important part, but a serious blow to the important principle of pollective bargaining and will merely delay rather than expedite the just and prompt solution of these important mat- ters. Cordially and sincerely yours, (Signed) WOODROW WILSON. B. M. Jewell, Acting President, A. P. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. W. S. Stone, 1116 B. of L. E. Bldg., Cleveland, Ohio. Timothy Shea, Acting President, 901 Guardian Bldg., Cleveland, Ohio. L . E. Sheppard, President, Order of Railway Conduc- tors, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. W. G. Lee, President, American Trust Bldg., Cleve- land, Ohio. S. E. Heberling, President, 326 Brisbane Bldg., Buffalo, New York. E. J. Manion, President, Order of Railroad Tele- graphers, Mo. State Life Bldg.. St. Louis, Mo. James W. Kline, General President, Brotherhood of Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 299 Blacksmiths and Helpers, 1234 Trans- portation Bldg., Chicago, 111. Wm. H. Johnston, President, International Association of Machinists, A. F. of L. Bldg., Wash- ington, D.'C. Martin F. Ryan, General President, Brotherhood of Railway Carmen of America, Hall Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Louis Weyand, Acting President, Brotherhood of Boil- ermakers and Iron Shipbuilders, Wyandotte Bldg., Kansas City, Kan. John J. Haynes, President, Sheet Metal Workers, 122 S. Ashland Blvd., Chicago, 111. James Noonan, President, Electrical Workers of. Amer- ica, Reisch Bldg., Springfield, 111. A R Barker, Grand President, United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes, 27 Putman Ave., Detroit, Mich. las. J. Forrester, General President, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, Room 407, A. F. of L. Bldg., Washington, D. C. D. W. Helt, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen of America, 728 13th St., N. W., Washington, D. C. Washington, D. C., Feb. 14, 1920. The President, The White House. My Dear Mr. President: We, the un- dersigned Chief Executives of the Rail- way Labor Organizations signatory here- to, have been jointly conferring on your letter of February 13, and note the fol- lowing conclusions have been reached by you: , 1. “Consideration and disposition of these Important wage matters ought not in my opinion be postponed for a further indefinite period, and I believe the mat- ters involved ought to be taken up and disposed of on their merits at the earli- est practicable time." We understand from this that you are referring to the policy of the Govern- ment as announced August 25, 1919. and that you now believe that the time has arrived when prompt disposition of gen- eral wage increases for railway labor should be made. In the interest of labor In general, and especially railroad labor and railroad operation, we are extremely gratified to note that you now recognize the necessity for promptly disposing of these vexatious problems; also that you recognize that railroad labor has patri- otically and loyally complied with your request of August 25, 1919. 2. We are further gratified to note that you now state that due regard shall be given “to all factors reasonably bearing upon the problem, and specifically to the factors of the average of wages paid for similar or analogous labor for other in- dustries in this country the cost of liv- ing, and a fair living wage.” We have been especially pleased with your recognition of these principles. It has been our feeling that the present movement has been different from what is ordinarily termed a wage movement. We have felt that our wages should be adjusted to meet radical changes in liv- ing conditions, and that the Government was morally bound to consider the situa- tion, and to assure us as far as possible that this would be done before the ter- mination of Federal control of the rail- roads. During the entire period of the war we felt and acted upon the principle that our country's emergency was not a period for demanding an improvement in our econ- omic conditions. We have been reluctant to believe that the Railroad Administra- tion could not finally dispose of these wage matters before the expiration of Government control, and are greatly dis- appointed that after due consideration you also think that this is Impracticable. We understand from your letter that you have definitely decided that the sub- ject matter must be dealt with in one of the two following methods: 1. “In the event that in connection with the return to private control provi- sion shall be made by law for machinery for dealing with railroad wage matters, I shall promptly use my influence, and Digitized by VjOO^lC

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300 The Railroad Telegrapher. so far as such law confers power upon me, 1 shall promptly exercise that power, to bring about the earliest practicable organization of the machinery thus pro- vided.” 2. "“In the event that no such provision is made by law for dealing with these matters, I shall employ the influence of the executive to get the railroad com- panies and the railroad employes to join promptly in the creation of a tribunal to take up those problems and carry them to a conclusion.” In this connection we have been pressing the necessity for immediate re- lief, and urge that you do not require us to wait the creation of a tribunal by legislation to deal with this problem. We feel justified in saying that we do not be- lieve that railroad employes will will- ingly accept any plan which contem- plates delay. It is our earnest conviction that the situation warrants us urging that you promptly indicate to railroad labor that you will create by agreement a special tribunal, to deal with this specific and important problem. With a full realization of our re- sponsibilities, however, we have decided to submit to our constituencies the advis- ability of the creation of a special joint commission composed of an equal num- ber of representatives selected by the railroad companies, and the railroad la- bor organizations signatory hereto by agreement, and invested with full au- thority to deal with this particular con- troversy on the basis of the following principles: 1. Hates of pay for similar or an- alogous services In other industries. 2. Relation of rates of pay to increased cost of living. 3. A basic minimum living wage suf- ficient to maintain a railroad man's aver- age family upon a standard' of health and reasonable comfort. 4. That differentials above this basic minimum living wage be established, giv- ing among other things due regard to skill required, responsibility assumed, and hazard incurred; decision of this tri- bunal to be handed down within 60 days after agreement to establish it, and to be final and binding upon all railroads in the United States and employes whom we represent. In compliance with your request that we submit your message and its enclo- sure to the memberships, we have issued a call for the necessary representatives of the organizations to meet in Washing- ton, D. C., February 23, when your letter of February 13 and enclosure, together with the above proposal will be pre- sented to them for consideration and de- termination. Pending this action on our part, we respectfully request that you take neces- sary steps to place this proposal before the executives of the railway companies, and secure their agreement thereto, so that when our representatives convene on February 23, we will be able to place before them a definite basis for final action. Sincerely and cordially yours, E. J. MAN ION, President, Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers. D. W. KELT, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Sig- nalmen of America. J. J. FORRESTER, Grand President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Han- dlers, Express and Station Employes. WM. H. JOHNSTON, International President, International As- sociation of Machinists. J. P. NOONAN, International President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. MARTIN F. RYAN, Grand President, * Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America. J. J. HYNES, International President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' International Al- liance. E. CORRIGAN, Representing W. S. Stone, Grand Chief Engineer, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. Digitized by (j o°Qle -

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 301 TIMOTHY SHEA, Acting President, Brotherhood of Loco- motive Firemen and Enginemen. * L. E. SHEPPARD, President, Order of Railway Conductors. W. G. LEE, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainman. S. E. HEBERUNG, ' President, Switchmen's Union of North America. J. W. KLINE, Grand President, International Brother- hood of Blacksmiths/Drop Forgers and Helpers of America. LOUIS WEYAND, Acting International President, Interna- tional Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America. B. M. JEWELL, Acting President, Railway Employes’ De- partment of the A. F. of L. Closing Statement The foregoing is a complete and comprehensive review of the wage situation for the years 1919, since the issuance of the President’s letter of August 25th, and 1920, up to the present time. The Chief Executives of the railroad organizations have issued a call to their gen- eral chairmen,’ or National Schedule Committee Men, to meet in Washington on February 23rd, when it is expected we will be in a position to place before the assembled bodies President Wilson’s reply to our letter of February 14th. Fraternally yours, E. J. M ANION, President, Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers. D. W. HILT, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Sig- nalmen of America. JAS. J. FORRESTER. Grand President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Han- dlers, Express and Station Employes. WM. H. JOHNSTON. International President, International As- sociation of Machinists. E. CORRIGAN, Representing W. S. Stone, Grand Chief Engineer, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. TIMOTHY SHEA, Acting President, Brotherhood of Loco- motive Firemen and Enginemen. L. E. SHEPPARD, President, Order of Railway Conductprs. W. G. LEE, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. G. E. HEBERUNG, President, Switchmen’s Union of North America. J. W. KLINE, Grand President, International Brother- hood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers of America. JAS. P. NOONAN, International President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. MARTIN F. RYAN, General President, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America. LOUIS WEYAND, Acting International President, Interna- tional Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America. J. J. HYNES, International President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers* International Alliance. B. M. JEWELL* Acting President, Railway Employes' De- partment of the American Federation of Labor. Dated: Washington, D. C., February 16, 1920. Washington, D. C., February 21, 1920. The President, the White House. My Dear Mr. President: Supplementing our letters to Mr. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads, under dates of February 9th and 11th; your letter of February 13th, and our letter to you dated February 14th, answering yours of the 13th Inst., we herewith submit foi* your consideration the following: Digitized by Googk

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302 The Railroad Telegrapher. At a meeting of the chief executive officers of all the railroad labor organiza- tions, to whom you addressed your letter of February 13th, held Wednesday evening, February 18th, to discuss the labor section of H. R. 10453 (Railroad Bill) designated as Title 111 of the Act, the undersigned committee was appointed and duly authorized to prepare and submit: (1) Our criticisms resulting from a thorough analysis of the labor provisions of the Act, and (2) To protest against the provisions of the Act wherein it provides for a minimum guaranteed return of 5% per cent based on the aggregate value of the property of the carriers. We respectfully submit, and urge that you give careful consideration to the attached copy of a memorial presented to the members of Congress, February 20th, setting forth, in detail, our criticisms and protests thereof. Quoting from your letter of the 13th Inst.: “In the event that in connection with the return to private control pro- vision shall be made by law for machinery for dealing with railroad wage matters, I shall promptly use my influence and so far as such law confers power upon me, I shall promptly exercise that power, to bring about the earliest practicable organization of the machinery thus provided." In our analysis of the labor provisions of the Act, we have set forth reasons, coupled with our years of practical application and experience in negotiating wage adjustments, which to us seem sufficient to warrant the definite conclusion that the Congress has not proposed a method of procedure acceptable at any time and entirely inadequate to meet the present situation. We feel sure that you can agree with us to the extent that there is little liklihood that Congress will be able to reach an agreement that will insure a prompt disposi- tion of the. question. Sincerely and cordially yours, By order of the Chief Executives, B. M. JEWELL, TIMOTHY SHEA, E. J. M ANION. C. C. — Walker D. Hines. ' Washington, D. C., February 21, 1220. Hon. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads, I. C. C. Bldg., Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Please find attached copy of letter to the President; also a memorial to the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America to Congress assembled, and to the people of the United States, for your information. Very truly yours, , By order of the Chief Executives, B. M. JEWELL, TIMOTHY SHEA. E. J. MANION. C. C. — The President. Memorial Washington, D. C., February 20, 1920. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, and to the people of the United States: As men employed upon the railroads we yield to no body of citizens in our loyalty and devotion to the principles upon which our Constitution and Government were founded. In defense of these principles we fntered the great war as free men Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 303 to preserve freedom and democracy. This was neither more nor less than our duty as loyal Americans, and for the full performance of that duty we expect no special credit or reward. We simply performed our duty in accordance with the best tradi- tions of our country. As free men now, we shall never willingly surrender the heritage bestowed upon us by the founders of the Constitution and our Government. Railroad employes never have and do not now seek to be treated as a privileged class, but we ask and expect just and equitable treatment and the continuation of our inalienable right to have an equal voice, representation, and vote in any tribunal created by law or mutual agreement which is to establish by its decisions the com- pensation we are to receive for our efforts and the working conditions under which ' our services must be rendered. One-tenth of the population of the United States is represented by the railway employes. We render the service on which the life of the nation depends. We have a dual interest to conserve — Interest as citizens, and our interest as the great human force that makes possible this essential service. As citizens and railway employes, we protest against the adoption of the pending rail- road bill, and as grofcnd for our protest we show : That the pending bill violates in its provisions the fundamental principles of American government The people of the United States have retained to them- selves certain elements of sovereignty of which they may not be deprived by the act of any legislative body. Amongst the rights so reserved are the following: In the words of John Adams ,and written in the Bill of. Rights in the State of Massa- chusetts and others of the various states of this Union — . "No man, no corporation or association of men have any other title to obtain advantages or particular and exclusive privileges distinct from those of the community than what arises from the consideration of services ren- dered to the public." "Government is, instituted for the common good, for the protection, safety, prosperity and happiness of the people, and not for the private honor or private interest of any one man, family, or class of men." Under such reservations no power could be delegated to the legislative bodies of the states or to the Congress of the United States to pass any laws that would infringe the retained sovereignty of the people. This is recognized by Article 10 of the 1st Amendment to the Constitution, which provides: "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution nor prohibited by It to the states and reserved to the states respectively, or to the people." Those powers reserved to the people in the various bills of rights were by the framers of the Constitution held to be inviolate and against Federal invasion. The proposed railroad bill, by guaranteeing to investors in railways a minimum return of pix per cent, thus conferring upon railway corporations and the holders of rail- way securities particular and exclusive privileges "distinct from those of the com- munity" were privileges not based upon the "consideration of services rendered to the public." It has ever been the policy of our Government to regulate charges for public services by prescribing maximum rates above which no demand could be made of the public for the services rendered. Such are the constitutional provisions of most of the slates under whose sovereignty railway charters are now held. This Is the general provision: « • ; j "The General Assembly shall from time to time pass laws establishing reasonable maximum rates of charges for the transportation of passengers and freight on the different railroads in this state. * * * The General As- sembly shall perns laws to correct abuses and prevent unjust discrimination Digitized by Googk

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304 The Hailkoad Telkghaphek. and extortion in freight and passenger tariffs of the different railroads in this state and enforce such laws by adequate penalties to the extent, if neces- sary for such purposes, by forfeiting their properties and franchises.” Competition was relied upon to keep rates down and regulation to prevent their becoming extortionate. It is proposed that we now abandon that theory. This Act denies to the public the benefit of competition, by prescribing minimum rates which hxust be sufficient to compel the public to pay six per cent, not as the compensation for services rendered the public* but upon a value of their properties as determined by an administrative body. Heretofore, it has always been held that the basis upon which compensation was to be received must be judicially determined. The rate of compensation to be allowed was the subject of legislative determination. By this Act we would abandon these established procedures and make both the rate and base questions of administration beyond the power of judicial review and beyond the control of legislative sanction. By this bill the Government which we have instituted for the common good is prostituted to establish the private interests of holders of railway securities as a class, giving to them a first lien upon the prosperity of the country at the expense of all other citizens, investors, producers, and consumers. This is an intolerable sub- version of the principles of American Government, an abandonment of government fox the common good, the establishment of government for private interest, special privileges, and class benefits. “Section 300, Paragraph 5: Title 3 of the Act. — The term ‘subordinate official’ includes officials of carriers of such class or rank as the commission shall designate by regulation formulated and issued after such notice and hearing as the commission may prescribe, to the carriers, and employes and subordinate officials of carriers and organizations thereof, directly to be af- fected by such regulations. “Section 304. Paragraph 1. — Three members constituting the labor group, representing the employes and subordinate officials of the carriers, to be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, from not less than six nominees whose nominations shall be made and offered by such employes in such manner as the commission shall by regulation prescribe. “Section 305. — If either the employes or the carriers fail to make nomina- tions and offer nominees in accordance with the regulations of the commis- sion, as provided in paragraphs (1) and (2) of Section 304, within thirty days after the passage of this Act in case of any original appointment to the office of member of the Labor Board, or in case of a vacancy in any such office within fifteen days after such vacancy occurs, the President shall thereupon directly make the appointment, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. In making any such appointment the President shall, as far as he deems it practicable, select an Individual associated in interest' with the carriers or employes thereof, whichever he is to represent.” Under the provisions of paragraph (1) Section 304, the labor group represent- ing the employes and subordinate officials are to nominate not less than six nominees, but under the provisions of Paragraph 5, Section 300, no nominations can be made until after the commission has held hearings and promulgated the method of pro- cedure for making such nominations. Under the provisions of Section 305, nominees must be selected within thirty days after the passage of this Act. No provision is made that will require the commission to promulgate regulations in sufficient time to permit the employes to comply with Section 305. Paragraph 5, Section 300, also proposes that the commission shall be required to define (within the meaning of the Act) the class or rank of “subordinate officials'* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 305 who shall come under the provisions of the Act. This provision in conjunction with paragraph (1) Section 304 and Section 305, grants special consideration and recogni- tion to a class of employes, now eligible to the respective organizations, on^n equal footing with the recognized standard organizations, yet they comprise less than 5 per cent of the total railroad employes. This special consideration also permits a situation to arise that could result in the appointment of three “subordinate officials,” three representatives of the carriers, likewise "subordinate officials,” and three mem- bers constituting the public group, as the constituent members of the Railroad Labor Board. A Labor Board? Without a representative of the 1,900,000 organized rail- road workers on it. “Section 301. — It shall be the duty of all carriers and their officers, em- ployes, and agents to exert every reasonable effort and adopt every available means to avoid any interruption to the operation of any carrier growing out of any dispute between the carrier and the employes or subordinate officials thereof. All such disputes shall be considered and, if possible, decided in con- ference between representatives designated and authorized so to confer by the carriers, or the employes or subordinate officials thereof, directly inter- ested in the dispute. If any dispute is not decided in such conference, it shall be referred by the parties thereto to th e board which under the provisions of this title is authorized to hear and decide such dispute. “Section 303. — Each such adjustment board shall, (1) upon the applica- tion of the chief executive of any carrier or organization of employes or subordinate officials whose members are directly interested in the dispute; (2) upon the written petition signed by 100 unorganized employes or subordi- nate officials directly interested in the dispute; (3) upon the adjustment board’s own motion; or (4) upon the request of the labor board whenever such board is of the opinion that the dispute is likely substantially to inter- rupt commerce, receive for hearing, and as soon as practicable and with due diligence decide, any dispute involving only grievances, rules, or working conditions, not decided as provided in Section 301, between the* carrier and its employes or subordinate officials, who are, or any organization thereof which is, in accordance with the provisions of Section 302, represented upon any such adjustment board.” Sections 301 and 303, establish a method of procedure, which, if followed, will destroy all discipline and lead to chaos, for the following reasons: (1) It permits and encourages the employes to disregard existing agreements And long established orderly methods of procedure. (2) It provides that any group of employes in excess of one hundred (100), may initiate a movement within one recognized class, in each of the respective recognized classes, on any one railroad, or on all of the railroads, and this may be duplicated by dividing the respective classes by 100 multiplying the total by the total number of railroads, carried to a logical conclusion It could be possible to have approximately 20,000 groups of not less than 100 employes presenting requests on say 165 trunk lines, no two of the requests being the same. (3) Failure to designate and treat with the standard recognized organizations representing approximately 95 per cent of all the employes, can be construed to mean nothing less than that the provisions of this Act are primarily based upon a deter- mination to annul existing agreements and destroy the organizations which nego- tiated them. “Section 302. — Railroad boards of labor adjustment may be established by agreement between any carrier, group of carriers, or the carriers as a whole, and any employes or subordinate officials of carriers, or organization or group of organizations thereof.” Digitized by VjOOQle

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306 The Railroad Telegrapher. This section confirms the analysis of Sections 301 and 303 in that it permits and encourages the formation of labor adjustment boards for groups of employes by units of not less than 100. With the above in mind it is well to note Section 306, (A) and (B), reading: “Section 306 (a).— Any member of the labor board who during his term of office is an active member or in the employ of or holds any office in any organization of employes or subordinate officials, or any carrier, or owns any stock or bond thereof, or is pecuniarily interested therein, shall at once be* come Ineligible for further membership upon the labor board; but no such member is required to relinquish honorary membership in, or his rights in any insurance or pension or other benefit fund maintained by, any organiza- tion of employes or subordinate officials or by a carrier. “(b) Of the original members of the labor board, one from each group shall be appointed for a term of three years, one for two years, and one for one year. Their successors shall hold office for terms of five years, except that any member appointed to fill a vacancy shall be appointed only for the un- expired term of the member whom he succeeds. Each member shall receive from the United States an annual salary of $10,000. A member may be removed by the President for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause/' Section (B) provides that the original members of the labor board, tor each group shall be appointed for three, two and one-year terms, respectively. Section (A) provides that an appointee must give up his rights as a member of the organization of his craft, except insurance, pension or other benefit fund. Men in the organized labor movement competent, by their long years "of ex- perience and training, to deal with the questions evolving upon a board of the character contemplated, cannot be expected to relinquish an association represent- ing their life's work, to accept a position, under the provisions above cited. Paragraphs (a) and (b), Section 306, in conjunction with other citations made, but reinforces an already justified conclusion, that the provisions of this act were never intended to serve as an instrument to preserve or promote* harmonious relations between railroad labor and the carriers, these provisions practically insure the nomination and appointment of nine members, Bix of whom can be fairly said to represent interests other than labor, and three representing the employers. The standard recognized railroad organizations in a communication to the Piesident, dated February 14, 1920, proposed: “With a full realization of our responsibilities, however, we^ have de- cided to submit to our constituencies the advisability of the creation of a special joint commission composed of an equal number of representatives selected by the railroad* companies and the railroad labor organizations, signatory hereto by agreement, and invested with full authority to deal with this particular controversy on the basis of the following principles: “(1) Rates of pay for Bimilar or analogous service in other industries. “(2) Relation of rates of pay to increased cost of living. “(3) A basic minimum living wage sufficient to maintain a railroad man’s average family upon a standard of health and reasonable comfort “(4) That differentials above this basic minimum living wage be estab- lished, giving among other things due regard to skill required, responsibility assumed, and hazard incurred; decision of this tribunal to be handed down within sixty days after agreement to establish it, and to be final and binding upon all railroads in the United States and employes whom we represent" We direct special attention to paragraph (B), Section 307, reading as follows: “(B) The Labor Board (1) upon the application of the chief executive Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. . so: of any carrier or organization of employes or subordinate officials whose members are directly interested in the dispute, (2) upon a written peti- tion signed by not lees than 100 unorganized employes or subordinate offi- cials directly interested in the dispute, or (3) upon the Labor Board’s own motion if it is of the opinion that the dispute is likely substantially to interrupt commerce, shall receive for hearing, and as soon as practicable and with due diligence decide, all disputes with respect to the wages or salaries of employes or subordinate officials of carriers, not decided as provided in Section 301. The Labor Board may upon its own motion within ten days after the decision, in accordance with the provisions of Section 301, of any dispute with respect to wages or salaries of employes or sub- ordinate officials of carriers, suspend the operation of such decision if the Labor Board is of the opinion that the decision involves such an increase in wages or salaries as will be likely to necessitate a substantial readjust- ment of the rates of any carrier. The Labor Board shall hear any decision so suspended and as soon as practicable and with due diligence decide to affirm or modify such suspended decision.” By a careful analysis of the foregoing, it will be seen that the Labor Board may, upon its own initiative, set aside any agreement entered into between car- riers and its employes, if in its opinion the agreement involves increases in wages or salaries which would necessitate increase in freight and passenger rates. It is possible under such proceedings to prevent any increases in pay for railroad em- ployes regardless of what' the circumstance may be. We also direct particular attention to Section 312, reading in part as follows: “Section 812. — Prior to September 1, 1920, each carrier shall pay to each employe or subordinate official thereof .wages or salary at a rate not less than that fixed by the decision of any agency, or railway board of ad- justment in connection therewith, established for executing the powers granted the President under the Federal Control Act, in effect. in respect to such employes or subordinate official immediately preceding 12:01 a. m., March 1, 1920.” ; j While railroad labor is guaranteed against a reduction of wages under this act prior to September 1, 1920, yet neither the interests of the public or labor are safe- guarded after that date. On the other hand, capital is guaranteed a minimum return of 5% per cent, leaving both the public and labor at the mercy of capital, after September 1, 1920. As railway employes, we submit that the pending bill in the particulars above enumerated is destructive of our Constitutional privileges and liberties. The purpose of American Government is stated in the following words, taken from the Missouri Constitution: “All persons having natural right to life, liberty and enjoyment of the gains of their own industry; that to give security to these things is the principal office of the Government; and that when Government does not confer this security, it falls of its chief office.” The pending bill in its provisions under Title 3 deprives citizens employed upon railways of this inviolate right to enjoy gains of their own industry. The returns to capital are fixed upon an arbitrary basis, the rates which the public must pay and wages which labor must receive, must accommodate them- selves to this basis fixed for capital. This act makes capital predominant. It makes the public and labor subservient to capital. For these reasons herein set forth and many others, we request and respectfully urge that the bill be defeated in its entirety. Digitized by Google

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308 The Railroad Telegrapher. The General Chairmen were convened here on February 23rd, for the purpose of considering a letter from President Wilson addressed to the executives of all recognized standard railroad organizations, requesting that they impart the informa- tion contained in said letter to the membership of the several organizations. It was deemed advisable by the Chief Executives to first refer the letter td the General Chairmen for their consideration; however, in the interim between the time the call was sent out to the chairmen and their arrival in this city, the pending measure was passed by the House of Representatives incorporating the conferee's report of the Cummins-Each bill. This served to confuse matters considerably, as it had a direct bearing upon one of the proposals contained in the President's letter. The General Chairmen discussed the matter for a week, awaiting final action as long as possible with the hope that the President would veto the bill, and thereby dispose of the uncertainty of the kind of machinery which would be created for the disposition of the present wage movement. Up to Saturday, February 28th, he had not indicated what his position would be toward the bill, therefore the General Chair- men directed that the president of the organization continue to act in conjunction with the Chief Executives of the other organizations to the end that a successful conclusion of the wage movement might be attained, leaving it optional with the President to reconvene the General Chairmen, if, in his opinion, such action was necessary. E. J. MANION, President Washington, D. C., February 25, 1920. The President, The White House, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. President: By direction of two million railroad employes, parties to the negotiations now in progress with yourself, represented by their duly ac- credited committeemen now assembled in this city, we, the undersigned special committee, have been delegated to convey to you in connection with our letter of February 24th, the individual action taken ^y each organization in meeting assem- bled as expressed in the following resolution and respectfully urge your thoughtful consideration and favorable action thereon. By Order of the Affiliated Railroad Labor Organizations, B. M. JEWELL, TIMOTHY SHEA, E. J. MANION. Resolution Unanimously Adopted by the Standard Recognized Railroad Organizations Whereas the Congress of the United States has passed a bill known as the “Transportation Act, 1920," now before you for your consideration, and Whereas this bill violates in its provisions the fundamental principles of the American Government in that it guarantees to the owners of railroad securities a right to charge for the service which railroads afford the public, such rates as will produce a minimum net return of five and one-half per cent upon that uncertain and intangible thing described in said bill as the “aggregate value of the railroad properties of such carriers," and Whereas this is a grant of a particular exclusive and special privilege distinet from those enjoyed by investors in other securities in other industries, and Whereas this grant of privilege is not based upon a consideration of service rendered to the public or upon the value rendered by any particular carrier, but is Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 309 an exercise of Governmental power for the private interest of a particular class of men, viz.: Those who own railroad securities, and Whereas this bill establishes a tribunal authorized to fix prices to be paid for labor in the operation of such railroads so privately owned, thereby attempting to deprive the employes of railroads of their former inherent right to determine the amount ofc wages they should receive by negotiation between employer and employe, and Whereas such provisions create an invidious class distinction against labor em- ployed upon railroads in contrast with the beneficial class distinction conferred upon investors in railroad securities, and Whereas said bill singles out from the broad field of labor employed in other industries, labor employed on railroads being subjected to this method of Govern- mental price fixing, and Whereas we, as American citizens, believe that this marks a departure from the principles of Amerlcah democracy as established in our Constitution, and Whereas we are advised that in order to settle the pending wage question now undetermined, we might, under the provisions of this bill, be compelled to submit to indefinite and unreasonable delays in that we may be required to originate anew with each one of the more than two thousand privately owned railroads the wage questions now under consideration and only after it had been determined in each of such negotiations that an agreement could not be reached could we present such issues to the Labor Board created by said bill. It is apparent that if the adjust- ment of these questions is long delayed it will result in great numbers of railway employes leaving the service of the railroads and obtaining employment in other industries under more satisfactory conditions, and that such results will seriously, hamper the efficient operation of the railroads, and Whereas the provisions of said bill creating the Labor Board permit indefinite delays in the creation of the Board, in that 1. The Interstate Commerce Commission must first prescribe the regulations under which nominations shall be made and before they can prescribe such regula- tions they must give notice and hold hearings for the purpose of determining the rank and class of subordinate officials and employes who come within the provisions of this bill, and 2. Thereafter, appointments must be made by the President, and 3. Such appointments must be ratified by the Senate, thereby affording further possibility of delay, and 4. The Board then created must establish offices in Chicago, complete its organization and prepare for the beginning of hearings before the solution of any questions can be entertained, and 5. It is further provided that in case an agreement is reached between officials and employes, or a decision by the Adjustment Boards (should such adjustment boards be mutually agreed to and established), said Labor Board shall have the power to suspend such agreements or decisions if in the opinion of the Labor Board such agreements or decisions involve “such an increase of wages or salaries as will be likely to necessitate a substantial readjustment in the rates of the carrier/* and 6. The bill provides that any decision of the Labor Board affecting increased wages or salaries or improved working conditions cannot become effective unless such decision is concurred in by at least one of the public representatives on said board, thereby conferring upon the representative of the public the arbitrary power to annul any decision that may be unanimously agreed upon by the representatives of officials and employes, and Whereas we further believe that the inequities, uncertainties, delays and am- Digitized by Google

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310 The Railroad Telegrapher. bigulties of this bill will promote unrest and intensify existing causes of disagree- ment and prevent the orderly adjustment of grievances between labor employed upon railroads, and Whereas the provisions of this bill abrogates the right and freedom of collective bargaining and substitutes therefor an indefinite and uncertain method of com- pulsory adjustment or arbitration of disputes, now, therefore, Be It Resolved, That we, the organized body of employes, making possible the operation of the railway systems of the United States, with a full sense of our responsibility to ourselves, our families and the people of our country, and wholly desirous of assisting in a definite orderly manner consistent with American Con- stitution and principles, the reaching of an equitable solution of this problem, do now request that you veto this bill and return it to the Congress of the United States without your approval, firmly believing that only by such course can an orderly solution of the problem now confronting the American people be achieved, and we respectfully request that you consider this resolution in connection with the memorial addressed to Congress, a copy of which was placed in your hands on February twenty^flrst. THE WHITE HOUSE Washington, March 1, 1920. Gentlemen: In my letter of February 28th to the Executives of Labor Organiza- tions, relative to the wage demands which your organizations have been pressing, I said, referring to the new transportation act: 'The bill having now become a law, the way is open for immediate action on Ihe wage matter in accordance with the terms of the bill. Section SOI of the bill evidently contemplates that the carriers and employes should, as suggested by you, select representatives who will thus constitute a bi-partisan board for the purpose of attempting by conference to agree upon a solution of this wage problem. In ac- cordance with the assurance I gave last August and repeated in substance in my letter of the 13th instant, I shall at once request the carriers and the employes to join in this action. I believe such a step will go far toward clarifying and maturing the subject for final disposition. In fact, the sort of board thus contemplated by Section 301 appears to be an appropriate substitute for the committee of experts, which I have heretofore suggested, and indeed such a board will be authorized to go further than •such a committee could have gone. "While it is true that the provisions of Section 307, of the railroad bill, relating to the Labor Board will probably also come into operation as to this wage matter, nevertheless the bi-partisan board can make a great deal of progress which will materially diminish the time to be consumed by the Labor Board; and while the bi-partisan board is functioning, the appointment and organization of the Labor Board can be expedited.” I, therefore, request that your organizations select such number of representa- tives as may seem appropriate to them to conduct the conference and negotiation contemplated by Section 301 to the end that such representatives may promptly meet in conference with the representatives selected by the railroad companies in accordance with the request I am making of them and may thus initiate the necessary proceedings. I shall be obliged if you will advise the Director General of Railroads as to the representatives selected as here requested. As soon as he receives such advice, and advice as to the representatives selected by the railroad companies, he will arrange for all Buch representatives to begin their conferences, and at such conferences questions of procedure can be settled and any question that may be raised as to Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 311 whether the number of representatives of either the employes or carriers is suffi- cient can also be dealt with. 1 enclose popy of my letter of this date to the Chairman of the Association of Railway Executives. B. M. Jewell, L. E. Sheppard, E. J. Manion, M. P. Ryan, James Noonan, W. S. Stone, Sincerely yours, W. G. Lee, James W. Kline, Louis Weyand, Jas. J. Forrester, A. E. Barker, WOODROW WILSON. Timothy Shea, S. E. Heberllng, Wm. H. Johnston, Jno. J. Hynes, D. W. Helt. THE WHITE HOUSE. Washington, March 1, 1920. T. Dewitt Cuyler, Chairman, Association of Railway Executives, 61 Broadway, New York City. Dear Sir: On the 26th of last August I publicly announced the conviction that a permanent readjustment in railroad wages ought not to be made upon the basis of the level of the cost of living then prevailing if that cost of living level were to be merely temporary, and I counselled railroad employes to hold their demands in abeyance until the time should arrive ,when it could reasonably be determined whether that level of the cost of living was temporary or not. I then anticipated and so stated that the time for determining whether or not the level of the cost of living was such as to be the basis of a permanent readjustment of wages might not arrive until after the expiration of Federal control and I gave my assurance to the railroad employes that in that event I would continue to use the influence of the executive to see that justice was done them. During the month of February, 1920, the wage demands which were thus held in abeyance have been the subject of renewed and careful consideration by me. In a communication to representatives of railroad employes, I expressed the opinion that in view of the lapse of time during which the matter had been held in abey- ance my judgment was that it ought not to be postponed for a further indefinite period, but on the contrary ought to be taken up and disposed of on its merits at the earliest practicable time; and I also explained that such a matter must be han- dled by an agency which could continue to function after March 1st, the date of the termination of Federal control, and stated that in the event provision should be made by law for machinery for dealing with railroad wage matters, I would promptly use my Influence to bring about the earliest practicable organization of the machinery thus provided. Since the railroad companies have now resumed the operation of their properties and since the Transportation Act has become a law, the way is open for the im- mediate handling of the wage matter in accordance with the procedure contem- plated by that law. ' I believe all will agree that the matter calls for the earliest disposition and for the most active and earnest co-operation to avoid any delay whatever in bringing it to a conclusion. Section 301 of the Transportation Act contemplates that the car- riers and employes may and ought to select representatives who will in effect con- stitute a bi-partisan board for the purpose of attempting by conference to agree upon a solution of wage problems subject to other provisions of the law. In view of the generality of these demands, affecting the railroad employes on *11 the railroads which have been under Federal control and in view of the manifest desirability and justice of the earliest possible disposition of the demands, I re- Digitized by Google

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312 The Railroad Telegrapher. quest that the railroad companies select such number of representatives as may seem appropriate to them to conduct the conference and negotiation contemplated by Section 301 to the end that such representatives may promptly meet in confer- ence with representatives selected by the employes in accordance with the request I am making of them and may thus initiate the necessary proceedings. I shall be obliged if you will advise the Director General of Railroads as to the representatives selected as here requested. As soon as he receives such advice, and advice as to representatives selected by the employes, he will arrange for all such representatives to begin their conferences and at such conferences questions of procedure can be settled and any question that may be raised as to whether the number of representatives of either the carriers or employes is sufficient can be dealt with. I understand that your association represents almost all the principal railroad companies in the country and I am proceeding on the assumption that whatever is done by the railroad companies included in your association will for practical pur- poses serve as an effective and adequate dealing with the problefti and that other railroad companies so far as they may be interested will speedily associate them- selves with the companies of your association in carrying the matter forward. I am therefore not undertaking to address individually all the railroad companies in the country. I enclose copy of my letter of this date to the executives of the labor organiza- tions which have been pressing th$ir demands having general relation to the rail- road employes on the railroads which have been under Federal control and with which organizations the Director General and I have been in conference. Sincerely yours, WOODROW WILSON. Labor Provisions of the Railroad] Bill Which Was Enacted by Congress. In order that our members may familiarize themselves with part of the pro- vision of the Esch-Cummins law which was enacted by Congress, after one of the most bitter fights ever waged by the railroad organizations. I am reproducing the sections pertaining to disputes between employes and employers. TITLE III. — DISPUTES BETWEEN CARRIERS AND THEIR EMPLOYES AND SUBORDINATE OFFICIALS. Sec. 300. When used in this title — (1) The term “carrier” includes any express company, sleeping car company, and any carrier by railroad, subject to the Interstate Commerce Act, except a street, Interurban, or suburban electric railway not operating as a part of a gen- eral steam railroad system of transporta- tion. (2) The term “Adjustment Board” means any Railroad Board of Labor Ad- justment established under section 302. (3) The term “Labor Board” means the Railroad Labor Board. (4) The term “commerce” means com- merce among the several States or be- tween any State, Territory, or the Dis- trict of Columbia and any foreign nation, or between any Territory or the District of Columbia and any State, or between any Territory’ and any other Territory, or between any Territory and the Dis- trict of Columbia, or within any Terri- tory or the District of Columbia, or be- tween points in the same State but through any other State or any Ter- ritory or the District of Columbia or any foreign nation; and (5) The term “subordinate official” in- cludes officials of carriers of such class or rank as the Commission shall desig- nate by regulation formulated and issued after such notice and hearing as the Com- mission may prescribe, to the carriers. Digitized by Google

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The Rail hoad Tblegraphek. 313 and employes and subordinate officials of carriers, and organizations thereof, di- rectly to be affected by such regulations. Sec. 301. It shall be the duty of all carriers and their officers, employee, and agents to exert every reasonable effort and adopt every available means to avoid any interruption to the operation of any carrier growing out of any dispute be- tween the carrier and the employes or subordinate officials thereof. All such disputes shall be considered and, if pos- sible, decided In conference between rep- resentatives designated and authorized so to confer by the carriers, or the em- ployes or subordinate officials thereof, directly interested in the dispute. If any dispute Is not decided in such con- ference, it shall be referred by the par- ties thereto to the board which under the provisions of this title is authorized to hear and decide such dispute. Sec. 302. Railroad Boards of Labor Adjustment may be established by agree- ment between any carrier, group of car- riers, or the carriers as a whole, and any employes or subordinate officials of car- riers, or organization or group of or- ganizations thereof. Sec. 303. Each such Adjustment Board shall, (1) upon the application of the /Chief executive of any carrier or organi- zation of employes or subordinate offi- cials whose members are directly inter- ested in the dispute, (2) upon the writ- ten petition signed by not less than 100 unorganized employes or subordinate of- ficials directly interested in the dispute, (3) upon the Adjustment Board’s own mo- tion, or (4) upon the request of the Labor Board whenever such board is of the opinion that the dispute is likely sub- stantially to Interrupt commerce, receive for hearing, and as soon as practicable and with due diligence, decide any disr pute involving only grievances, rules, or working conditions, not decided as pro- vided in section 301, between the carrier and its employes or subordinate officials, who are, or any organization thereof which is, in accordance with the provi- sions of section 302, represented upon any such Adjustment Board. Sec. 304. There is hereby established a board to be known as the “Railroad Labor Board” and to be composed of nine mepibers as follbws: (1) Three members constituting the labor group, representing the employes and subordinate officials of the carriers, to be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Sen- ate, from not lees than six nominees whose nominations shall be made and offered by such employes in such manner as the Commission shall by regulation prescribe. (2) The members, constituting the management group, representing the carriers, to be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, from not less than six nom- inees whose nominations shall be made and offered by the carriers in such man- ner as the Commission shall by regula- tion prescribe; and (3) Three members, constituting the public group, representing the public, to be appointed directly by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Any vacancy on the Labor Board shall be filled in the same manner as the orig- inal appointment. Sec. 305. If either the employes or the carriers fail to make nominations and offer nominees in accordance with the regulations of the Commission, as pro- vided in paragraphs (1) and (2) of sec- tion 304, within thirty days after the passage of this Act in case of any origi- nal appointment to the office of member of the Labor Board, or in case of a va- cancy in any such office within fifteen days after such vacancy occurs, the Pres- ident shall thereupon directly make the appointment, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. In making any such appointment the President shall, as far as he deems it practicable, select an individual associated in interest with the carriers or employes thereof, which- ever he is to represent. Sec. 306. (a) Any member ef the Labor Board who, during his term of office is an active member or in the employ of or holds any office in any organization of employes or subordinate officials, or any carrier, or owns any stock or bond there- of, or is pecuniarily interested shall at once become ineligible for fur- ther membership upon the Labor Board; but no such member is required to re- linquish honorary membership in, or his rights in any insurance or pension or other benefit fund maintained by, any or- ganization of employes or subordinate of- , ficials or by a carrier. (5) Of the original members of the Labor Board, one from each group shall be appointed for a term of three years, one for two years, and one for one year. Their successors shall hold office for terms of five years, except that any mem- ber appointed to fill a vacancy shall be appointed only for the unexpired term of the member whom he succeeds. Each member shall receive from the United States an annual salary of $10,000. A member may be removed by the President for neglect of duty or malfeasance In of- fice, but for no other cause. Digitized by Google

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314 The Railroad Telegrapher. Sec. 307. (a) The Labor Board shall hear, and as soon as practicable and with tiue diligence decide, any dispute involv- ing grievances, rules, or working condi- tions, in respect to which any Adjustment Board certifies to the Labor Board that in its opinion the Adjustment Board has failed or will fail to reach a decision with- in a reasonable time, or in respect to which the Labor Board determines that any Adjustment Board has so failed or is not using due diligence in its consid- eration thereof. In case the appropriate Adjustment Board is not organized un- der the provisions of section 302, the Labor Board, (1) upon the application of the chief executive of any carrier or organization of employes or subordinate officials whose members are directly in- terested in the dispute, (2) upon a writ- ten petition signed by not less than 100 unorganized employes or subordinate of- ficials directly interested in the dispute, or (3) upon the Labor Board's own mo- tion if it is of the opinion that the dis- pute is likely substantially to interrupt commerce, shall receive for hearing, and as soon as practicable and with due dill-, gence decide, any dispute involving griev-’ ances, rules, or working condition which is not decided as provided in section 301 and which such Adjustment Board would be required to receive for hearing and decision under the provisions of section 303. (b) The Labor Board, (1) upon the ap- plication of the chief executive of any carrier or organization of employes or subordinate officials whose members are directly interested in the dispute, (2) upon a written petition signed by not less than 100 unorganized employes or subordinate officials directly Interested in the dispute, or (3) upon the Labor Board's own motion if it is of the opim ion that the dispute Is likely substan- tially to interrupt commerce, shall re- ceive for hearing, and as soon as prac- ticable and with due diligence decide, all disputes with respect to the wages or salaries of employes or subordinate of- ficials of carriers, not decided as pro- vided in section 301. The Labor Board may, upon its own motion, within ten days after the decision, in accordance with the provisions of section 301, of any dispute with respect to wages or salaries of employes or subordinate of- ficials of carriers, suspend the opera- tion of such decision if the Labor Board is of the opinion that the decision in- volves such an Increase in wages or sala- ries as will be likely to necessitate a sub- stantial readjustment of the rates of any carrier. The Labor Board shall hear any decision so suspended and as soon as practicable and with due diligence decide to affirm or modify such suspended deci- sion. (c) A decision by the Labor Board un- der the provisions of paragraphs (a) or (b) of this section shall require the con- currence therein of at least 5 of the 9 members of the Labor Board: Provided, That in case of any decision under par- agraph (b), at least one of the represen- tatives of the public shall concur in such decision. All decisions of the Labor Board shall be entered upon the records of the board and copies thereof, together with such statement .of facts bearing thereon as the hoard may deem proper, shall be Immediately communicated to the parties to the dispute, the President, each Adjustment Board, and the Com- mission, and shall be given further pub- licity in such manner as the Labor Board may determine. ( d ) All the decisions of the Labor Board in respect to wages or salaries and of the Labor Board or an Adjustment Board in respect to working conditions of employes or subordinate officials of car- riers shall establish rates of wages and salaries and standards of working condi- tions, which, in the opinion of the hoard are just and reasonable. In determining the justness and reasonableness of such wages and salaries or working conditions the board shall, so far as applicable, take into consideration among other relevant circumstances: , (1) The scales of wages paid for sim- ilar kinds of work in other industries. (2) The relation between wages and the cost of living. (3) The hazards of the employment. (4) The training and skill required. (5) The degree of responsibility. • (6) The character and regularity of the employment; and (7) Inequalities of increases in wages or of treatment, the result of previous wage orders or adjustments. Sec. 308. The Labor Board— (1) Shalt elect a chairman by majority vote of Its members. (2) Shall maintain central offices in Chicago, Illinois, but the Labor Board may, whenever it deems it necessary, meet at such other place as it may de- termine. (3) Shall investigate and study the re- lations between carriers and their em- ployes, particularly questions relating to wages, hours of labor, and other condi- tions of employment and the respective privileges, rights, and duties of carriers and employes, and shall gather, compile, classify, digest and publish, from time to time, data and Information relating u> such questions to the end that the Labor Board may be properly equipped to per- Digitized by Google

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The Raileoad Telegrapher. 315 form its duties under this title and that the members of the Adjustment Boards and the public may be properly Informed. (4) May make regulations necessary for the efficient execution of the func- tions vested in it by this title; and (5) Shall at least annually collect and publish the decisions and regulations of the Labor Board and the Adjustment Boards and all court and administrative decisions and regulations of the Commis- sion in respect to this title, together with a cumulative index-digest thereof. Sec. 309. Any party to any dispute to be considered, by an Adjustment Board or by the Labor Board shall be entitled to a hearing either in person or by counsel. Sec. 310 (a) For the efficient adminis- tration of the functions vested in the Labor Board by this title, any member thereof may require, by subpoena issued and signed by himself, the attendance of any witness and the production of any book, paper, document, or other evidence from any place in the United States at any designated place of hearing, and the taking of a deposition before any desig- nated person having power to administer oaths. In the case of a deposition the testimony shall be reduced to writing by the person taking the deposition or un- der his direction, and shall then be sub- scribed to by the deponent. Any member of the Labor Board may administer oaths and examine any witness. Any witness summoned before the board and any wit- ness whose deposition is taken shall be paid the same fees and mileage as are paid witnesses in the courts of the United States. (6) In case of failure to comply with any subpoena or in case of the contumacy of any witness appearing before the Labor Board, the board may invoke the aid of any United States district court. Such court may thereupon order the witness to comply with the requirements of such subpoena, or to give evidence touching the matter in question, as the case may be. Any failure to obey such order may be punished by such court as a contempt thereof. (c) No person shall be excused from so attending and testifying or deposing, nor from so producing any book, paper, doc- ument, or other evidence on the ground that the testimony or evidence, docu- mentary or otherwise, required of him may tend to incriminate him or sub- ject him to a penalty or forfeiture; but no natural person shall be prosecuted or sub- jected to any penalty or forfeiture for or on account of any transaction, matter, or thing, as to which in obedience to a sub- poena and under oath, he may so testify or produce evidence, documentary or otherwise. But no person shall be ex- empt from prosecution and punishment for perjury committed in so testifying. Sec. 311. (a) When necessary to the ef- ficient administration of the functions vested in the Labor Board by this title, any member, officer, employe, or agent thereof, duly authorised in writing by the board, shall at all reasonable times for the purpose of examination have ac- cess to and the right to copy any book, account, record, paper, or correspond- ence relating to any matter which the board is authorized to consider or inves- tigate. Any person who, upon demand, refuses any duly authorized member, of- ficer, employe, or agent of the Labor Board such right of access or copying, or hinders, obstructs, or resists him in the viction thereof be liable to a penalty of $500 for each such offense. Each day dur- ing any part of which such offense con- tinues shall constitute a separate offense. Such penalty shall be recoverable in a civil suit brought in the name of the United States, and shall be covered into the Treasury of the United States as mis- cellaneous receipts, (6) Every office!* or employe of the United States, whenever requested by any member of the Labor Board or an Ad- justment Board duly authorized by the board for the purpose, shall supply to such board any data or Information per- taining to the administration of the functions vested in it by this title, which may be contained in the records of his office. (c) The President is authorized to transfer to the Labor Board any books, papers, or documents pertaining to the administration of the functions vested in the board by this title, which are in the possession of any agency, or railway board of adjustment in connection there- with, etsablished for executing the powers granted the President under the Federal Control Act and which are no longer necessary to the administration of the affairs of such agency. Sec. 312. Prior to September 1, 1920, each carrier shall pay to each employe or subordinate official thereof wages or salary at a rate not less than that fixed by the decision of any agency, or railway board of adjustment In connection there- with, establishing for executing the pow- ers granted the President under the Fed- eral Control Act, in effect in respect to such employe or subordinate official im- mediately preceding 12:01 a. m. March 1, 1920. Any carrier acting in violation of any provision of this section shall, upon conviction thereof, be liable to a penalty of $100 for each such offense. Each such action with respect to any such employe or subordinate official and Digitized by Google

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316 The Railroad Telegrapher. each day or portion thereof during which the offense continues shall constitute a separate offense. Such penalty shall be recoverable in a civil suit brought in the name of the United States, and shall be covered into the Treasury of the United States as miscellaneous receipts. Sec. 313. The Labor Board, In case it has reason to believe that any decision of the Labor Board or of an Adjustment Board is violated by any carrier, or, em- ploye or subordinate official, or organi- zation thereof, may upon its own motion after due notice and hearing to all per- sons directly interested in such violation, determine whether in its opinion such violation has occurred and make public its decision in such manner as it may de- termine. Sec. 314. The Labor Board may (1) ap- point a secretary; who shall receive from the United States an annual salary of $5,000; and (2) subject to the provisions of the civil service laws, appoint and re- move such officers, employes, and agents; and make such expenditures for rent, printing, telegrams, telephone, law books, books of reference, periodicals furniture, stationery, office equipment, and other supplies and expenses including salaries, traveling expenses of its members, sec- retary, officers, employes, and agents, and witness fees, as are necessary fQr the efficient execution of the functions vested in the board by this title and as may be provided for by Congress from time to time. All of the expenditures of the Labor Board shall be allowed and paid upon the presentation of itemized vouchers therefor approved by the chair man of the Labor Board. Sec. 315. There is hereby appropriated for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1920, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum of $50,- 000, or so much thereof as may be neces- sary, to be expended by the Labor Board; for defraying the expenses of the main- tenance and establishment of the board, including the payment of salaries as pro- vided in this title. Sec. 316. The powers and duties of the Board of Mediation and Conciliation cre- ated by the Act approved July 15, 1913; shall not extend to any dispute which may be received for hearing and decision by any Adjustment Board or the Labor Board. Congressman Blanton Bebuked Once more our friend Congressman W. J. Burke from Pennsylvania came to the rescue of organized labor and the principles enunciated by the unions, when he, took occasion during a recent session of Congress to excoriate in the following language the position taken by that arch and pernicious mud-slinging / enemy of labor, Congressman Blanton, of the Seventeenth District of Texas: “I have stated before on the floor that this not a place to air hostility and hatred to the working classes,” Mr. Burke de- clared, “and I think it is unfair to me to sit here every day and listen to exag- gerated and incorrect statements.” The occasion for the remarks arose when Blanton offered some objections to appropriating money to pay salaries of Government employes, saying the appro- priations for this legislation were in ex- cess and should be limited. Mr. Burke had good backing, Representative Gar- land, of Pittsburgh; Casey, of Wilkes- Barre, and others, joined in the general attack on Blanton. Continuing, Mr. Burke said: “Mr. Speaker, in reply to what has been * said by the representative from Texas, Mr. Blanton, namely, that Congressman Carss and myself have worked together and blocked him from the floor and from having his remarks extended in the Rec- ord, I want to- say, that in having done so, I consider that we rendered a public service to the country. The people of the country have had a few days* rest, and I have had the pleasure and comfort of sitting here in peace, for at least a few days, free from the usual procedure of listening to his abusive and incorrect statements. I believe a good many of the members of this Congress have also en- joyed the same feeling of peace and com- fort. “I have stated before on this floor that this is not place to air hostility and hatred to the working classes; it is not the plaoe Digitized by VjOOQle

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Thb Hailboad Tblbgbapheb. to array capital against labor or labor against capital. I have always been fair towards capital and I want to be fair to everybody, but it is very unfair to me to have to sit here every day and listen to exaggerated and incorrect statements. ‘1 have become disgusted with what goes on here in this cespect and so has the country. Day after day, the represen- tative from Texas, Mr. Blanton, prances up and down in front of us, shaking his fist in -our faces, making incorrect state- ments to Congress and villifying labor. "Mr. Blanton just got through telling this Congress that organized labor meant the closed shop. There never was a more incorrect statement. For thirty-two years I have been connected with the Order of Railway Conductors, one of the best labor organizations in the United States, and the members of this organization and the members of the other railroad organiza- tions do not discriminate 'against the men who do not belong to the organizations. The non-members receive all the benefits that the organizations’ members receive in the way of wages and working condi- tions, although it is the organizations that make the contracts aqd agreements and es- tablish better conditions for the men. "Only this morning I came in on a train with a man who has been a Baltimore & Ohio conductor for thirty-five years; he is not a member of the Ordfcr of Railway Conductors, yet he enjoys the friendship and the liking of all his fellow-workers; he receives the same benefits his fellow conductors receive through a conductors’ wage schedule. He does not belong to the conductors organization; he is not forced to belong to it; he is liked by his fellow-conductors and they work in peace and harmony. There are countless num- ber of men who do not belong to organ- ized labor who derive all the advantages and benefits of the organized workers’ contract, which refutes the statement of the representative from Texas, that men must belong, and if they do not they are discriminated against "It is time these misstatements and this 317 abuse was put a stop to. We cannot have contentment in this country; we cannot have stability in this country as long as men stand up here day after day blackguarding and villifying labor. "I want to say to my side of the house, too, that I have sat here, watching some of you applauding Mr. Blanton’s remarks, and possibly if he had not received en- couragement, the rest of us would not have had to be constantly suffering listen- ing to his abusive talk. "The working people read of what tran- spires here, the attacks that are made upon them, and the heart and the energy is taken out of them by the unfairness and the injustice of it. It is time that it was put a 8 top to. Labor does not have to take the abuse. "Members here will talk about a $60 a month salary for some poor laborer; will vote against a few dollars increase for the poorly paid Government employes; burn up hour after hour talking about it, for two and three days at a time, appropriating $300,000,000 of the people’s money to finance the railroads, it goes through with only a five-hour debate al- lowed. "According to the press reports of the country, 17,000 millionaries were created during the world war, which means $17,- 000,000,000 dollars of private wealth, garnered out of a nation’s woe and peo- ple’s misery. Under the Lever act I am advised, Attorney General Palmer has full power to have the books of these newly made millionaire concerns audited and let the people of the country find out just how and in what manner they made the millions. "As long as I have been in Congress, I have never once heard Mr. Blanton raise his voice against the ’big interests’ of the country or say one word about bringing the profiteers to justice, but he spends his time talking against labor and abus- ing Mr. Gompers, whose life has been ded- icated to the uplift of his fellowmen and the cause of humanity.” Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 3M One of Our Statesmen Congressman Blanton has evidently endeavored in every manner possible to let the people of his district know they have a real “live wire" representing them, from a recent editorial appearing in the Washington, D. C., Times, has this to say ol him: “Introducing Mr. Blanton, the World’s Costliest Statesman.” (By BILL PRICE) ‘‘This may be good advertising for the gentleman who occupies the seat in the House from the Seventeenth Texas district. If so, it costs him nothing. But Texas people are just about as intelligent as are to be found anywhere; just about as courteous, and certainly fully as manly. They know the meaning of a kindly act and also what a cheap little thing is. A few days ago their Congressman, Mr. Blanton, objected to a colleague from Illinois reading a telegram that would have been concluded in just one minute and was then being read. This objection forced a roll call that consumed forty-five minutes of Congressional time. From May 19 to December 31, 1919, there had been 237 roll calls in the House, and of these Mr. Blanton was responsible for 75. A careful estimate of the daily expense of the House of Representatives is an average of $15,274, or about $1,999 per hour. The average roll call costs $1,450. Mr. Blanton has cost the United States $108,750, making him the world’s costliest statesman. Since December 31 Mr. Blanton has added to the roll calls to his credit and to the sum he has cost the United States. To his credit also is the fact that he has frequently offended his colleagues by objecting to the extension of their remarks in that celebrated daily publication, the Congressional Record, and has made himself beloved of them in many other ways. This famous $100,000 Texas statesman has added to his other distinctions by attacking a former Congressman guilty, it is charged, of propaganda encouraging government employes in the belief that they may receive increases of pay. Mr. Blanton does not wish any such hope held out to government workers* whose pocket- books are stuffed with gold' on salaries ranging from $60 to $100 per month, the average stipend paid to more than half the employes of the United States in this city. In Mr. Blanton’s district an average of $80 per month may be a good salary, but people there have no exorbitant house or room rents to pay; no heavy fuel or lighting bills; escape many of the expensed of life in 'a large city. When a man is finishing his life there ought to be satisfaction to him if he has fought evil and wrong to the best of his ability, and in some instances Mr. Blanton may be doing this, but there can be no joy in the human heart if there is scattered along the roadside of life’s journey dark spots marking where one has denied justice to his fellow-men and turned upon them the bitterest of vituperation. Mr. Blanton’s constituents read the Bible and follow it The teachings of Christ’s disciples were distinctly against arrogantly reproving others. But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you, let him hew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. Real men of Texas never strike the under dog. Their nature is to give a help- ing hand. The poorest paid men and women of the nation today are those who work for the government of the United States.” Digitized by VjOOQle

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One thousand and fifty-five new mem- bers were Initiated into the Order dur- ing the month of February. The union label is the uIn Hoc Signo Vincef of the crusade to rescue the child from the workshop, factory and mill; the woman from the sweatshop and tenement bouse, and the millions of labor from the clutches of greed, degradation and poverty . Natural monopolies and not the corner grocery must be attacked, if prices are to be reduced, said Edward Nordman, di- rector of the division of markets in Wis- consin. He declared that a line must be drawn between the producing, con- structive factors of society on the one hand and thte parasitic, obstructive ele- ments on the other. K. H. Stover, General Chairman of the Western Maryland System, has an- nounced his candidacy for Congress from the Second Congressional District of West Virginia on the Republican Ticket. We feel certain he will receive the sup- port of organized labor, which he so just- ly merits , and he has the best wishes of The Telegbapheb and its readers for a victorious race by a landslide majority. An act of heroism which saved the life of an eight year old lad is due to the alertness, presence of mind and unselfish risk of life on the part of Clarence A. Mitchell , holder of Cert. 3128 in Div . 130, who is operator and cashier for the Bur- lington at Peru , III. The child broke through the treacherous ice with his sled on the Illinois River just west of the bridge and south of " Q ” station on Jan- uary 10th last and teas rescued by Bro. Mitchell. William C. Redfleld, ex-Secretary of Commerce, has analyzed the labor code of the soviet government of Russia and is horrified to find that every man in that country is subject to compulsory labor. "No American workman," said Mr. Red- field, "would submit for a moment to such a tyrannical and oppressive system." The former cabinet member thunders against this condition in far-away Russia, but he nor his kind did not protest against the bolshevist idea in their own country when the Kansas "can’t-strike” law was being enacted and when the at- tempt was made to establish compulsory labor in the American railroad service. The Canadian government refuses to repeal the “can’t-strike’’ law and refuses to enforce it, declare officers of the Trades and Labor Congress of Canada, who say that this attitude "brings about a disrespect for the law and is unde- sirable." With the growing industrial impor- tance of the widely scattered sections of Canada, it is becoming more difficult to enforce any section of the act, and the trade unionists recommend^ to the gov- ernment that all the machinery of in- vestigation and conciliation be over- hauled. The workers express their willingness to participate in a conference to under- take this work in order that legislation may be devised to provide for quick and satisfactory settlement of labor disputes. Governor Henry N. Allen of Kansas, while in Chicago recently, was quoted as favoring anti-strike legislation for labor and urging the repeal of the excess profits tax in the interest of capital. From his public statements he evidently believes in forbidding the workers doing anything and permitting the capitalists to do what they please! Did Kansas know what it was doing when it chose him as its exec- utive? It is stated that during the re- cent election he was in France organiz- ing a home communication service for the Red Cross. The fact that he was absent and did not advise Kansas citizens of his views on labor and capital may account for the grave mistake which the citizens made when they elected him Governor. Digitized by Google

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PERSONAL A\ENTION The following births have been re- ported since the last issue of The Telegrapher : To Bro. and Mrs. J. O. Boulais, of Ful- ford, Que., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. J. Smith, of Mat- teson, 111., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. W. Hale, of Par sons, Kan., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. C. Burge, of Cen- tralia, 111., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. F. H. Clendenin, of Lincoln, Neb., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. A. Swanson, of York, Neb., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. Swanson, of Deer Park, Wisconsin, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. G. E. Johnson, of Trego, Wis., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. M. L. Christopher, of Dresden Sta., N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. F. V. Collins, of Bak- ersfield, Cal., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. W. Lewis, of Dur- hamville, N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. C. H. Bonneau, of Norwich, N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. F. W. Phillips, of Quinnesec, Mich., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. I. B. Sutherland, of Hermansville, Mich., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. T. Johnson, of Nor way, Mich., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. H. Unger, of Pin- neo, Colo., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. H. Matthews, of Didsbury, Alberta, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. N. J. Etherton, of Famoso, Cal., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. O. R. Phelps, of Glid den, Sask., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. L. M. Baird, of New- ton, Kan., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. O. H. Underwood, of Elgin, N. D., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. A. J. Ingrain, of Ar- vada, Wyo., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. A. T. Wheeless, of Maywood, 111., a girL To Bro. and Mrs. Chris. Litscher, of Milwaukee, Wis., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. L. Hammond, of Lake Bluff, 111., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. H. H. Repke, of Win netka, 111., a girl. * To Bro. and Mrs. A. E. Friberg, of Era mons, Minn., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. O. Cantleberry, of Killbuck, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Howard M. Decker, of Newark, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. W. B. Blevins, of Lordsburg, N. M., a boy. To Bro. and Sister Fulks, of Estrella. Ariz., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. L. S. Moranda, of Oi nard, Cal., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. F. V. Collins, of Bak ersfleld, Cal., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. P. Latimer, of Burdette Junction, Ark., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. D. H. Vanderhill, of LaPorte, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. D. M. Brett, of Ivan. Ark., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. R. H. Sheely, of Hanna, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. N. A. McLaughlin, of Plymouth, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. R. Owens, of South Charleston, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Robert Qeyn, of New Albany, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. W. Harvey, of Washington Ch., Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Leo Thiel, of Roundup, Mont., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. M. H. McMillan, of Lemmon, S. D., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Geo. Lallement, of Pittsburg, Cal., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. W. 8. Starr, of Pitt* burg, Cal., a girl. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 321 To Bro. and Mrs. W. M. Palls, of An- tioch, Cal., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. O. Mangus, of Kensington, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. R. Tarbet, of Wells- ville, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. P. L. Ranb, of Eden- burg. Pa., a- boy. To Bro. and Mrs. L. E. Wardell, of Chi- cago, 111., a boy. To Bro. and Sister A. C. St. John, of Akron, Ala., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. J. McDonald, of Martinsbnrg, W. Va., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. A. Stout, of Carth- age, 111., a boy. » To Bro. and Mrs. Fred Wolcott, of Sny- der, Tex., twin boys. To Bro. and Mrs. B. R. Alford, of New Butler, Wis., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. M. Jenks, of Dalton, Wis., a boy. The following marriages have been re- ported since the last issue of The Telegrapher: At Rochester, New York, Sister Kather- ine Nachtman, of Div. 8, to Mr. Charles Barker. At Spokane, Wash., Bro. E. B. Spencer of Div. 153, to Miss Matie E; Brundage. At Chicago, 111., Bro. C. A. Spurling, of Div. 23, to Miss Anna Waters. At Sterling, Ohio, Bro. O. A. McBride, of Div. 33, to Miss Zula Rich. At Richmond Hill, New York, Bro. F. E. Remmert, of Div. 44, to Miss Caroline Shaffner. At Farnham, Que., Bro. C. L. Pope, of Div. 7, to Miss Edyth Pattulle. At Grace City, N. D., Bro. F. E. Whis- enand, of Div. 70, to Miss Yera Goddard. At St. Guillaume, Que., Bro. L. L. Mer- cure, of Div. 7, to Miss L. Bisson. At Roanoke, Va., Bro. J. K. Turner, of Div. 14, to Miss Nora Watts. At Woodstock, Ala., Bro. F. C. Hayes, of Div. 62, to Miss Snow Roland. At Shoshone, Idaho, Bro. Clyde Lanning to Sister Victoria Keltus, both of Div. 172 At Emporia, Kan., Bro. L. A. Adding- ton, of Div. 61, to Miss Esther Windell. At Logansport, Ind., Bro. Orlan Archie Davidson, of Div. 17, to Miss Edith Jaoks At Los Angeles, Cal., Bro. C. R. Kays, of Div. 53, to Miss Mary Thrasher. At Ogilby, Cal., Bro. G. M. Russell, of Div. 53, to Miss Beatrice Wellington. At Yuma, Ariz., Bro. D. V. Cronin, of Div. 53, to Sister E. M. Ahearn, of Div. 76. At El Paso, Tex., Bro. T. H. Morrison, of Div. 53, to Miss Lucile Barksdale. At St. Elmo, Ala., Bro. John Pfleger, of Div. 58, to Miss Ethel Smith. At Lake Shore, Miss., Bro. E. H. Yar- borough, of Div. 58, to Miss Viola Kelly. At Paterson, N. J., Bro. John J. Tier- ney, of Div. 30, to Miss Mary McKay. The Telegrapher extends congratula- tions to the happy couples. The following deaths have been re- ported since the last issue of The Telegrapher: Father of Bro. J. A. Phegley, of Div. 53. Son of Bro. J. W. Reeley, of Div. 3. Sister Irene Nelson, of Div. 54. Wife of Bro. Thomas F. Meany, of the Grand Division, at Caspar, Wyoming, on Sunday, Feb. 8, 1920, of pneumonia. Bro. C. E. Wilson, of Div. 17. Father and infant son of Bro. J. Pisan- illo, of Div. 8. Sister of Bro. L. T. Pumphrey, of Div. 17. Wife of Bro. T. C. Toyler, of Div. 26. Brother of Bro. W. F. Masepohl, of Div. 17. Daughter of Bro. H. C. Hull, of Div. 33. Son and two daughters of Bro. H. L. HofTman, of Div. 44. Daughter of Bro. A. Corrigan, of Div. 44. Wife of Bro. William C. Marvel, of Div. 42. Daughter of Bro. R. L. Ford, of Div. 61. Father of Bro. C. E. Jackson, of Div. 70. Brother of Bro. J. M. Arnold, of Div. 61, and of Bro. C. C. Arnold, of Div. 70. Wife of J. E. Begin, of Div. 7. Bro. G. T. King, of Div. 7. Wife of Bro. J. A. Karras, of Div. 70. Bro. D. R. Warren, of Div. 46. Bro. Fred Minser, of Div. 17% Father of Bro. C. Z. Nichols, of Div. 48. Bro. T. S. Kelly, of Div. 42. Wife of Bro. J. M. Brown, of Div. 17. Mother of Bro. L. N. Henderson, of Div 17. Digitized by VjOOQle

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322 The Railroad Telegrapher. Father of Bro. E. G. Benskin, of Div. 18. Bro. Earl J. Benton, of Div. 20. Bro. T. R. Thomas, of Div. 23. Bro. V. E. Peterson, of Div. 23. Bro. James Keefe, of Div. 29. Wife of Bro. O. H. Thomas, of Div. 36. Wife of Bro. L. L. Watson, of Div. 39. Sister Himebaugh, of Div. 39. Bro. George H. Girling, of Div. 4. Father of Bro. J. H. Dunlap, of Div. 6. Father of Bro. H. J. Clevenger, of Div. 6. Wife of Bro. C. E. Graff, of Div. 6. Sister of Bro. Chas. Golden, of Div. 6 Bro. Alfred D. Bell, of Div. 6. Mother of Bro. J. W. Jose, of Div. 6. Mother of Bro. L. E. Merrick, of Div. 8. Bro. Neil Campbell, of Div. 11. Wife of Bro. G. H. Robertson, of Div. 16. Bro. Wm. Miller, of Div. 16. Son of Bro. E. L. Jennings, of Div. 16- Bro. Thos. Dean, of Div. 17. Bro. J. A. Villlnger, of Div. 17. Wife of Bro. E. E. Brock, of Div. 17. Infant daughter of Bro. O. V. Sparks, of Div. 17. Wife of Bro. A. F. Summers, of Div. 33. Bro. T. S. Pitt, of Div. 65. Wife of Bro. H. M. Cowden, of Div. 17. Bro. Wm. Fusselman, of Div. 17. Bro. C. E. Wilson, of Div. 17. Father of Bro. R. R. Shull, of Div. 17. Bro. C. A. Propst, of Div. 88. Wife of Bro. Theo. Gaston, of Div. 17. Bro. H. L. Phillips, of Div. 64. Bro. Thomas N. Wallace, of Div. 67. Bro. E. B. Freeman, of Div. 59. Bro. P. A. Scholz, of Div. 54. Mother of Bro. O. Shrove,' of Div. 180. Infant of Bro. E. L. Sanders, of Div. 166. Bro. Mick Mason, of Div. 17. Mother of Bro. B. T. Willard, of Div. 70. Wife of Bro. J. L. Haynes, of Div. 130. Father of Bro. J. C. King, of Div. 161. Father of Bro. P. C. Frampton, of Div 33. Bro. Geo. W. Myers, of Div. 17. Bro. B. A. Towle, of Div. 23. Wife of Bro. B. D. Rinehart, of Div. 17. Mother of Bro. B. R. Basim, of Div. 17. Sister of Bro. A. V. Engel, of Div. 61. Wife and infant daughter of Bro. O. N. Johnson, of Div. 71. Mother of Bro. A. O. Rousseau, of Div. 7. Mother at Bro. R. G. Manny, of Div. 7. Mother of Bro. J. P. Abran, of Div. 7. Wife of Bro. J. N. Beauchemin, of Div. 7. Sister and child of Bro. J. E. E. Au- clair, of Div. 7. Mother of Bro. L. N. Henderson, of Div. 17. Son of Bro. W. C. Richter, of Div. 32. Bro. Harry N. Harper, of Div. 23. Mother-in-law of Bro. B. J. Frey, of Div. 17. Wife of Bro. B. L. Williams, of Div. 17. Mother of Bro. A. Hultsch, of Div. 17. Father-in-law of Bro. M. L. Prather, of Div. 17. Brother of Sister M. E. Barton, of Div. 44. The bereaved relatives have the sym- pathy of all. WANTED. Whereabouts of G. CL Covey. Last heard of working as dispatcher for Mo. Pacific at Osawatomie, Kan. Your rela tives are anxious to advise you of a death. Myron E. Davis, Knobnoster, Mo. Present address of Geo. McKinnon. Last heard of working at Sanborn, Iowa. “If you see this, Mac, drop me a line.'’ Peter E. Collins, Haynes, N. D. Present address of Joe Caha. Oversea soldier released at Camp Merrit, N. J., July 20, 1919. “Joe, if you see this wire me at once, as your folks are very much worried/* H. G. Cunningham, New Meadows, Idaho. Whereabouts of T. F. Shea. Five feet six inches tall, brown curly hair and grey eyes. “Curly, if you see this write at once, as I have something very good for you." v W. L Gordon, Blackfoot, Idaho. Whereabouts of Bert Wormworth. Last heard of working for the O. W. R. N. at Wallula, Washington. Left for Pern and Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 323 my now be in Alaska. “Bert, if you «see this, write me as I have valuable infor- mation for you.” W. T. Mansell, c/oO. W.R.A N., Wallula, Wash. Present address of J. W. Ford. Last heard of working for Atlantic Coast line in Florida. “Very important.” J. B. Gunn, Jr., Bainbridge, Ga. Present address of Joe Quinn or Joe Rafter. <rWrite at once, as I have very important news for you.” A. Kevlin, 86 Cherry St., # Albany, N. T. Whereabouts of S. L. Walker. Last heard of working as agent and operator at Fieldale, Va. “S. W.,” if you see this, write your old friend, Joe, that worked with you at Ingham, Va. J. M. Johnson, Marathon, Texas. Wanted, present address of J. R. Bert- ram, H. B. Showalter, G. M. McGill, J. L. Smith, L. B. McCargar, H. N. Austin and H. J. Purcell. Back pay checks are at Ticket Agent’s Office, B. ft O. Passenger Depot, Cleveland, O., and after March 10 will be returned to Baltimore. Please send me your address or write Mr. Tuttle at once. W. A. McCabe, Chippewa Lake, Ohio. LOST OR STOLEN. Annual card No. 805, Cert. 869, Div. 88, for year 1920. Card No. 24190, Cert 181, Div. 48, for term ending June 80, 1920. Card No. 21253, Cert. 1756, Div. 53, for, term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 10468, Cert. 41, Div. 18, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 227, Cert. 567, Div. 59, for year 1920. Annual card No. 2293, Cert. 2695, Div. 59, for year 1920. Card No. 1650, Cert. 3026, Div. 130, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 654, Cert 289, Div. 70, for year 1920. Card No. 2796, Cert. 1492, Div. 70, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 3537, Cert. 734, Div. 22, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 3219, Cert. 116, Div. 59, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 4968, Cert 20, Div. 76, for year 1920. Annual card No. 1459, Cert. 245, Div. 53, for £ear 1920. Annual card No. 2999, Cert 98, Div. 13, for year 1920. Card No. 26144, Cert. 210, Div. 57, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 3649, Cert. 847, Div. 43, for year 1920. Annual card No. 1165, Cert. 1081, Div. 70, for year 1920. Card No. 21676, Cert 110, Div. 61, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 23167, Cert. 167, Div. 7, for term ending June 30, 1920. Digitized by VjOOQle

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PRACTICE CO-OPERATION. (By Kate E. Carr, President) The story is told of a lady, who, while walking in a residence district, was very much amazed to see a number of puppies cuddled together in the snow. After watching them for a moment she ex- claimed to a newsboy who was passing her, “What a wonderful demonstration of true brotherly love." “Brotherly love nothing/' replied the newsy. “That's an example of simple dogsense. They're huddled together to keep from freezing to death." The average workingman would con- sider himself very much insulted were he to be advised that the status of his intelligence regarding his relations with his fellow workers was not above that of an ordinary puppy. He would no doubt attempt to prove his superior quality of gray matter by lauding the accomplish- ments of his brothers and sisters in the professional, the commercial and in the industrial lines of endeavor. And a few moments later having forgotten the inci- dent he would commence a lengthy speech embracing a number of popular subjects, such as “The impossible conditions caused by the H. C. L., ludicrous legislators, and our topsy turvy methods of production and distribution." After it was all over and the audience had applauded in the prevailing and ex- pected manner, and you the average in- dividual quietly catalogued the different ideas expressed with their relative rela- tionship, you would perhaps suddenly be- come aware that there was evidence of a deficit existing in the account of Mr. Workingman's industrial life. And that deficit is “co-operation." A something that is not listed In the "for sale" columns of your trade Journals, yet is free to be used anywhere, at all times. Even the puppies knew its value — all used it in a time of need. The associated in- dustries are making every use of its pos- sibilities. But the average workingman praises its power for an hour and then unconsciously uses the remainder of the day to retard its progress in the various organizations of his fellow workers. We preach collective bargaining, but buy our groceries individually from we Grocers' Association. We organize our skill to make furniture and one at a time we buy our tables from the furnltur* trust. We give a dollar toward a strike benefit fund then give twelve dollars for a pair of shoes made in an open shop. In order to save prisoners from various atrocities, we implore, our Prison Boards to take industries out of prisons, but con- tinue to sweep our floors with prison- made brooms and ease our feet in prison- made slippers. We wail because there is an absence of authentic labor news in the daily press, and back our kick by sub- scribing for an Associated Press sheet for a year in advance. We spend hours of our time getting helpful labor bills before our legislators, and then vote for men who will vote against those bills. It would seem that before we can put the ethics of co-operation, as they should be, into working order for workers It will be necessary to stop practicing inconsist- ency, and the first step in that line in the average family is for the "one” mem- ber of that family to stop trying to study and practice the thousand details of the program which affect every other mem- ber of his family. • In other words, commence to practice co-operation In your own home. The aver- age workingman has not the/ time re- quired to work eight hours in an office, study co-operative literature, start a eoi- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 325 lective buying club in bis community, memorize open shop and prison labels, look up the past and present records or candidates for political offices, nor inquire where the “would-be” legislators stand on current labor questions. But he can han- dle this program effectively and become a progressive unionist by using tact and cooperating with the other members of his family in working out the details. Let the union man’s wife become a student of the co-operative movement. Tell the children the merits of the union label and encourage them to start a label collection. Introduce labels into some simple, enjoyable games. Let’s have “union” families, instead of a few over- worked union men. TO ORGANIZED WOMEN AND ADVO- CATES OF EQUAL RIGHTS. Do you realize a bill is about to receive consideration at Albany, N. Y., which, if it becomes a law, will make illegal the em- ployment of any woman for a longer period in each day than eight hours? I refer to the Donohue Bill. It means that thousands of women workers who are at present occupying position where it is absolutely necessary to remain on duty longer than eight hours, will be forced. If this bill becomes a law, to readjust their hours, lose the overtime which means at the present high cost of living, all the difference between a bare exist- ence, which honor and no debts and the tragedy of debt to many a woman who is the sole bread-winner of a family, and per- haps loss of position where such adjust- ment cannot be satisfactorily made. It means a step backward in the progress which women the world over have strug- gled for, in establishing equal opportunity for women in labor. It discriminates solely on account of sex, on account of posterity — a splendid reason, but failing to take into consider- ation the infants already here, and de- pending absolutely on these same workers for a right to live and grow and be safe- guarded in their development into useful citizens, by detracting from the earning power and equal opportunity to the mother. It makes no discrimination between the future mothers and the mother who has already reached the stage of middle age; whose responsibility in educating her family is at its highest point in expense, and who is trying to finish off creditably the labors she undertook in raising and giving to the world her sons and daugh- ters. It aims at all women workers of the state of New York, regardless of condi- tions of employment, whether married or single, young or middle-aged, widowed or divorced, or co-workers with their hus- bands. y It is a serious thing to the woman struggling alone and trying to maintain a home and support a family, and every woman whose livelihood is menaced by this well-meaning, but entirely too broad proposed legislation, as well as all friends of a square deal for women, and all citi- zens who feel that the rights of women are being discriminated against in this bill — should write immediately to their representatives in Assembly or Senate and protest against the passage of the “Donohue Bill.” Mbs. Lillian Whilden, Cert. 596, Div. 44. Digitized by Google

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LABOR’S INFLUENCE. The “Good Stuff” published in the jour- nal for some time past has encouraged me to write the following: The Telegrapher carries a political ed- itorial urging the folks to vote for Labor’s friends. This I am glad to state is a step in the right direction. We are now in a position to sway to a large extent the electoral current, and to waste our strength in political division is, to my mind, little short of suicidal. What we need and must have is not “non- partlsan politics,” but strictly partisan Labor politics. 4nd when we stop to con- sider the fact that Labdr is at least 85 per cent o^the people of the country, then we can readily see that the above is not so very radical as at first glance appears. The first fault of Non-partisan politics is that Labor has no share in the conven- tion nominations of the major political parties, primaries notwithstanding. Its second fault is that Labor has very little share if any in defraying the cam- paign expenses of the so-called Non-par- tisans, I do not mean the League of that name. Whoever defrays the expenses of the campaign has a prior claim upon the offl clal elected. And it is a notorious fact that only those who have a special inter- est in an election defray the expenses. It stands to reason, if the C. ft N. W. pays my salary I have no interest in serving the C., B. ft Q. If John Smith pays the expenses of any undertaking, it surely is not for the benefit of his competitor. That also is the case politically. I believe we have outgrown the hap- hazard, ^ion-partisan, vote for the best man, theory. Labor has too much at stake to follow outworn creeds and methods. We must stand for Labor, under our own banner, united — solid. The powers of greed and pillage chortle with glee when we stick to the old rut Because to them it means division in our ranks. And it is only when we are di- vided that they can rule. The same conditions to a lesser degree obtains upon the industrial field. We are sadly divided into sharp alignments. On the railroads we are plagued with a mul- tiplicity of unions, with very little power as individual units. We are used one against the other to the detriment of all the units, and of all of the individuals that form the several units. We are still in the patch and repair game politically when, what is needed, and the time is ripe for, is a major ballot box operation by Surgeon Labor. And, of great importance industrially is the need for united action. Craft action lost its power when capital became national and international. We are a number of pygmies facing a giant octopus, and so long as we disre- gard this truth we will never even equal the strength and reach of this octopus A moment’s reflection will convince any- one, or should, that our united strength can greatly overtop the power and re- source of the exceedingly small minority, who by virtue of control of the wealth of the world, have inflated themselves to octopus size. Anyone well informed, historically, and contemporaneously, can see . that our time to wrest political and industrial lib erty, with all its benefits, economic and social, and political, has arrived. Either we take advantage of this oppor* Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 327 tunity now, or we must prepare for an- other dark age of a thousand years. The Homan Emperors successfully hin- dered the barbarian invasion, only by as much as they created division among them. The Oligarchy of the present day can successfully rule, only, by — as much as they keep us, or we stand divided. I may, without levity, say, that it is either Unity or Bust. Cert. 1019, Div. 76. THE TRUTH OF FEDERAL CONTROL. Before this article apears in the Jour- nal the President will have signed the Esch Bill, and the railroads will have been returned to their private owners and managers, under the provisions of this bill, for a new lease on life. The Rail- road Brotherhoods must not become dis- couraged or disconcerted in the face of the reverse they have just experienced at the hands of Congress in their efforts to bring about a new order of things in the transportation business of this coun- try. There is a reason for the present situation! In a word, .the reason is a lack of knowledge on the part of the peo- ple regarding the real facts of “govern- ment control” as it obtained the last two years. Notwithstanding the fact that dur- ing the first eight months of 1918 the railroad managers generally were com- pletely discredited in the eyes of the pub- lic, and were in utter rout, and them- selves believed that “the jig was up” so far' as they were concerned, because of a lack of well-defined program and concerted effort for its accomplishment at the psy- chological time, on the part of the Railroad Brotherhoods in association with the friends of real Government Ownership and Operation, these same managers (notwith- standing the fact that most of them were Federal officers in the United States Rail- road Administration) were able to reor- ganise their forces, and by means of a “defeatist policy” on the one hand, and an insidious propaganda on the other, to in turn completely discredit “govern- ment control,” “government operation,” and "government ownership” as rank heresy, so that for the past year the dom- inating sentiment with the “business in- terests” has been for private ownership and operation of railroads. The writer of this article insists that there has never been any real attemept at “government control” or “government op- eration” of railroads in this country. Even such thinkers as Senator La Follette and Charles Edward Russell have failed to recognize this fact in all Its tremendous import. I read Senator La Follette's speech on the railroad bill with great eagerness, hoping that surely he would reveal what has actually taken place these past two years of so^alled government control, but he failed to touch upon this vital truth. It should be thor- oughly established with the people of this country that the United States Railroad Administration was not an operating or- ganization in any real sense of that word. Further, it should be established with the people that the operating organizations of the railroad corporations were not dis- turbed to any perceptible extent when they passed under control of the U. 8. R. R. A. The same operating officials man- aged and operated the railroads under “government control” who managed and operated the roads prior thereto. The United States Railroad Administration was an executive organization and not an operating organization. It was designed to be a “super-organization” or “fountain head of authority,” to which the operat- ing organization of each individual rail- road would be subordinate in point of su- preme authority or powers, in the general scheme for co-ordinated effort that was conceived at that time, for the winning of the war! As a secondary considera- tion it had a program of general econo- mies to be gradually introduced, which were calculated to put government con- trol on a paying basis. From June, 1918, until the armistice was signed, November 11, 1918, consider- able strides were made by the Director General and his organization, the U. S. R. R. A., in the introduction of these econ- omies— effecting certain consolidations of facilities — pooling rolling stock; short routing of freight, etc., with the belief Digitized by Google

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328 The Bailboad Teleobapheb. that the war would last much longer than it did, and no doubt with the intention at that time, of gradually putting actual government operation into effect. In June, 1919, there was every indication that the war would last for several years to come, and it was the consensus of opinion at that time even among the railroad offi- cials themselves that the Director Gen- eral would “so fix the railroads that they could never be unscrambled/' But let it again be repeated: Not a single railroad organization was disrupted or changed to any appreciable extent, or taken over and operated by the United States Rail- road Administration, the super-organiza- tion of the government. One change in railroad organization did take place. The U. S. R. R. A. eliminated the office of pres- ident in the individual organizations. Those considered most able as operating officials from this class were made “Re- ional Directors,” The rest remained presidents in the “invisible corporate or- ganizations.” The ranking operating offi- cial of each road was made “Federal Man- ager” of that road. Below hint the oper- ating organization remained substantial- ly intact ! The work of consolidation did not pro- ceed very far when the armistice was signed, and from that time forward all constructive work in the development of the original program of the U. S. R. R. A. remained at a standstill. As a matter of fact, it was the right at this time the sentiment against “Government Control,” “Government Operation” and “Govern- ment Ownership” began to crystallize rapidly, and it became apparent that the private owners had not only not been decisively discredited, but that they were secretly recouping their forces to regain control of the railroads at the proper time, and much of the work in the de- velopment of these aforesaid policies was actually undone, that the anticipated re- turn could be accomplished with the least possible disturbance. When these facts are known, and they are known by thou- sands of railroad men throughout the country, is it not obvious why “govern- ment control” cost the people over $600,- 000,000.00? It is not necessary to deal in a maze of figures involving watered stock to account for this deficit We charge that the railroads have just “drifted along” since December, 19IS; that subsequent to that time they have made no sincere efforts to go forward and make federal control a success, and this is the explanation of the deficit We be- lieve it to be true that directly as the in- dividual trunk lines have lost money un- der so-called Federal control, can their efforts to make Federal control a failure be measured! One of the largest systems in the coun- try, possessing the most adequate facili- ties in existence, has been a steady loser. Why? Ponder on this fact people! We challenge any raildoad to produce the scratch of a pen since December, 1918, that will show a single instance of a real effort on its part to make Federal control a success on its properties, through recommendations to its Regional Direc- tor or the United States Railroad Admin- istration at Washington, D. C. If their discerning employes have judged them rightly, it cannot be done! The above statements will probably amaze the uninformed public. The ter- rible facts of this gigantic deception have not been delved into as yet It will be a revelation of monumental duplicity. Only one writer to my knowledge has touched on it In an article in “Labor” some time ago, Charles K. Kelley, entitled “Some Lights on Government Administration of Railroads; and Why There Are Deficits,” briefly discussed several phases of ram- pant inefficiency and sabotage. Let us quote several paragraphs from this article for the benefit of those who did not read this article. “Legislators scoff when they are urged to investigate allegations that a system- atic effort has been made during the past two years to discredit so-called govern- ment ownership of railroads, and preju- dice the American public against any plan of railroad reorganization short of the return of the transportation systems to Wall Street. “Hundreds of thousands of railway # Digitized by Google .z

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 329 workers. In all sections of the country, who have been daily witnesses of and frequently unwilling participants in a nation-wide conspiracy of sabotage can recite circumstances of willful and wan- ton destruction of property and an orgy of waste and mismanagement that might influence even obdurate congressmen could they be induced to give an atten- tive ear. “It would require volumes to give in de- tail the devious devices that have been employed to increase operating costs. They range from deliberate padding of pay rolls by the creation of unnecessary official positions to the reckless destruc- tion of property. “Workmen employed in the shops of a large Western R. R. are cognizant of what has been transpiring during the reign of sabotage. . . On October 17 word came to these shops that government in- spectors were soon to maae a visit and orders were given to give the departments a general overhauling. Notwithstanding that laborers adequate for this work were available, ten car repairmen were detailed to clean up, and several days were given to this work. . . . The wage of labor- ers is 45 cents per hour, while the wage of men who rendered this service is 72 cents per hour. . . . Questioned about this practice of delegating high-salaried men to do the work of low-salaried labor- ers, a worker replied: 'The bosses encour- age the laborers to loaf, because they are Italians, and know they won’t say any- thing if inquisitive inspectors make in- quiries. . . /" It is common knowledge among the railroad workers that the managers have given employment to an army of low- grade clerical labor at the minimum sal- ary of $87.50 per month. These un- schooled and inefficient clerks are so thick they are in each other's way, and do not create any real value whatsoever. The case of Federal control is a tre- mendous story of “defeatism." It has never been told. But it will be told, and when it is, it will reveal to the American People what superficial thinkers and asin- ine fools they have been. Robert M. La Follette, we call upon you, sir, as a Senator of the people, to go to the bottom of this whole affair, that the American people shall know the truth concerning this recent “Federal Control." We insist that there never has been government control and operation of rail- roads in any real meaning of that term: That the power to make that which pur- ported to be Federal control a success or failure has rested absolutely in the ident- ical hands which managed the rail- roads prior to January 1, 1918, and which brought the railroads to the brink of dis- aster at that time! Is there anybody so gullible — so lacking in understanding, as to believe that changing the title of “gen- eral manager,, to “Federal manager" over night brings about real Federal manage- ment? Is there anybody so stupid as to believe that a group of men who have been closely associated with big business all their lives, and who owe everything they have in the way of place and power to this alliance with big business — is there anybody so stupid as to believe that these men, the mortal enemies of govern- ment control, government operation and government ownership, can be changed, presto changeo, into friends of these ideas? Or that they are fit or capable of honest effort to make these ideas success- ful, when the power to annihilate these same ideas is placed in their hands? The- leopard cannot change its spots ! The future will shed light on this sub- ject. We railroad workers should not become discouraged because we and the rest of the people have/been defeated m this latest battle with reaction. Tfc£ im- mutable laws of evolution and progress are bound to prevail. Special privilege is not so firmly re-established today as it would appear to the casual thinker. When I ponder over the case 1 come to the con- clusion that it is well that we did not get the two-year extension. The time is not propitious. We would still have had the defeatists saddled on our backs, because the great American people still do not know the truth. But they shall learn the truth, and when they do, they will rise Digitized by Google

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330 The Railroad 'Telegrapher. up as one man in their might!* What we have just witnessed is but the opening gun in the war against privilege. The fu- ture is ours. “Nemesis.” A QUESTION. The topic of the day seems to be: “Shall there or shall there not be a Labor party launched next fail?” What does the daily press say in this di- rection: New New York Eve. Post says: “It Is a serious development for both old parties,” and adds, “If the federations of four mil lion votes could be swung solidly, they could control the outcome of elections, they could name the next President and the members of Congress.” “There is a necessity for the workers to unite in their OWN party,” says “The New Majority, of Chicago.” The United Mine Workers' Journal says: “Labor can exert a POWERFUL Influence on elections by supporting men for Congress KNOWN to be friendly to labor interests and oppose those who are not” While on the subject of choice of Rep- resentatives, personally, I do not think that Labor would be taking the slightest mlstep by nominating Senator Robert M. La Follette for the Presidency. Why? For the reason that he has proved to La- bor, yes, and to the American people at large, that he's their friend; that he's for everything that would tend to dispose of the discontent that is holding America in its grasp to-day. He has proven that Wall Street can- not change his views, he is for America and the rights of the American people, particularly those who labor, FIRST, LAST, and at all times. What is to prevent such a man from handling the reins of the United States Government? Is it not his Just dues? Would not Labor feel justified in placing this man at the head of the nation’s in- terests? Your interests? Think, fellow laborers. The time is not far distant, when you must chose your leader for the next four years— Sena- tor La Follette has been weighed and not found wanting; your, interests are his, and I feel that should Labor nominate him it would be one of their greatest achievements. I am for Senator La Follette EVERT DAY IN THE WEEK AND TWICE ON SUNDAY. "QO." PRAEMONITAS PRAEMUNITA&! The two principal political parties, Re publican and Democratic, have raised their cudgels against working men, whether union or non-union, if we are to judge by what Senator Beveridge, Republican of Indiana, said in a recent speech at De- troit, and Representative Blanton, Demo- crat, of Texas, said in the House of Rep- resentatives at Washington on the 9th of February. Ex-Senator Beveridge's Detroit speech of January 29th, which, according to the papers, sounds the “keynote” of the Re- publican party in the present political campaign, is, as far as workingmen are concerned, the death-knell of the Repub- lican party. The one redeeming feature of his re- marks is that “every citizen^ is free to join any political party he pleases, and to vote for whatever candidate he chooses," and when the Republican party tolerates such remarks as were uttered by Senator Beveridge and regarded as the keynote of the party, then may we thank our own efforts that we are actually permitted to vote as we see fit. I quote from his speech: “The methods of ruthless Labor are force. Intimidation, and the despotic command of voting groups. Both have been and are served by shifty politicians, and professional of- fice holders and office seekers, who care no more than their masters for the people as a whole.” We take this opportunity of thanking Mr. Beveridge very kindly for sounding the keypote of the Republican party so early in the game, thus enabling us from time to time to choose the leaders whom we feel would look more kindly upon n Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 331 who are compelled to toil for our exist- ence. It is to our interest to choose wisely when we go to the polls next November, for it is only through our representatives in Washington that we are able to receive fair treatment. President Gompers’ plan of publishing the facts about each aspirant to office in Washington is a great stride towards the goal of success, and if we, as workingmen, take note of these publications, we will be able to elect men as our representatives who will not attempt to enslave us through such bills as the Cummins bill, misuse of the Lever Act and Government by Injunction. Representative Nolan, of California, de- fended us nobly when Representative Blanton assailed President Gompers and Union Labor, but was overruled. Although Mr. Blanton may feel that workingmen are "serfs,” it doee not stand that they really are. They would be if we had a few more like him in Washington. He says: "When Samuel Gompers puts his hand on a Representative and says ‘elect him,* the people will keep him at home.” It is to be regretted that such appar- ently enlightened men as the Hon. Blan- ton do not know who "the people” are. If the aforesaid political parties do not purge their ranks and platforms of such leaders and principles, it is indeed the death knell of those political parties, be- cause we are certainly going to delve into qualifications and acts of each candidate before we cast our vote, aifd if we do not, then we are blind and do not deserve freedom. Patrick Henry said: "Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it. Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but give me lib- erty, or give me death." Let us prepare ourselves that we may leave the polls without fear and without reproach, remembering "LABOR OMNIA VINOIT." "E. L. C." TRUE AMERICAN PRINCIPLES. "Loyal Employe." It has been a pleas- ure to me to read answers to one who feels that he is the only "LOYAL EM- PLOYE.” Being a local chairman, I have been made to feel what true loyalty and co- operation means to a man struggling for better things. I began my telegraph career on a non- union road, east of the Mississippi River, in 1901. I have seen men told what to do and forced to stay on the job after work- ing hard for 12 long hours, to finish the task; in fact, the only time in my life that I was criticised for failure to do all in my power to serve the company that I was employed by, I was discharged, as we commonly express It "fired," for a per- sonal encounter with an agent. I have seen just such men as this man, with all of "Christian-like spirit," work operators an hour oi\ two each day after they had worked twelve hours all night, in order to finish their tasks. I am in sympathy with Christianity, and in my humble way endeavor to prac- tice what I preach. I preach and practice loyalty, the offi- cials know that I am loyal; they also know which side of the line I'm on; that is, I try to be on the side of right toward God, my country, and my fellow-man. We have many thousand men engaged in telegraph work who are loyal Ameri- cens, loyal to God, the company they serve and their fellowmen. We have great political issues facing us as a nation today as never before in the history of the country. The world today is being shaped and fashioned after our great nation, and It is our loyalty to the needs of mankind and our readiness to give and be spent for Buffering, struggling humanity that has placed us before the world as we are today, we can and should be loyal. Christianity will not interfere with this at all. Then we should be as as men,1 as has been expressed, "When I was a child I spake as a child, though as a child, but when I became a man I laid aside childish things." Men can and Digitized by Google

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332 The Railroad Telegrapher. should be capable of being loyal to the American Government, to God, to the com- pany they serve, to the O. R. T. and their neighbor. A man is capable of thinking as a man, not as a child. A contract entered into between the committees and the General Manager or government officials is authorized by the Constitution of the U. S. as well as each state in the Union, under the law of con- tracts. It was not entered into by per- sons incapable of contracting. The Constitution of the United States gives us the right to contract and it states what in its laws is a valid contract. It also gives us American citizens the right to strive to better our conditions in life. "Because we ask and receive," in the way of contract, certain concessions, is no mark of disloyalty, and then because the men live ui> to the contract is no mark of disloyalty either. We should never narrow our views so that we cannot see the fairness in contract laws and rules. The trouble with some men is. they are not capable of meeting men as men, but meet them as weaklings, and with narrow visions. I can bd and am loyal to more than one purpose or person. W. S. Gormlky. A NON’S REPORT TO THE LOYAL EMPLOYE. Through the columns of your paper I would like in as brief manner as possible reply to "Loyal Employe,” who apparent- ly is laboring under a false delusion. As a "NON” also, I feel that I can answer his letter without prejudice. Whether a non-union or a union em- ploye, our aim should be the best inter- ests of our employers and the public whom we serve. No railroad official ex- pects any more. I started out in railroad work more than thirty years ago, at a time when railroad positions were the best line of work for the young man who could not afford a college education. After learning all the different lines of agency work and telegraphy I have worked for some of the best lines in the country. I gave fifteen of the best years of my life as station agent for one of the lead- ing railroads in this section of the coun- try. I kept a telephone in my residence, in order that my night force could call me at any hour for matters which might need my attention, and I can say that few nights passed that my rest was not disturbed. I worked early and late, sac- rificed my own interests whenever they conflicted with the interests of the com pany, and WHAT DID IT PROFIT ME! Well, another bunch of officials secured control of the road and I was let out to make room for the barnacle or friend (?) who always follow in the wake of rail- road officials. Did these new men care anything about my future welfare, or ap- preciate my loyalty to the company and my long hours? NO. I was let out, more or less broken in health, and too old to secure a position with many of the dif- erent railroads because of the age limit bug-a-boo. My years of experience in rail- road work counted for nothing, because I was past thirty-five years of age. A case of the hair-brained youth as against the man of real experience, and the man of experience lost Unfortunately, the best railroad officials die young. They work themselves to death. Those who live the longest are the type of fellows that don’t even know that such a person as "Loyal Employe”* is on top of the face of the earth. I want to ask "Loyal Employe” how many raises in salary he ever received without asking for it, or without assist- ance of concerted effort on the part of railroad employes for a general increase? The railway clerks and station agents have not received very much from the Railroad Administration as compared with the favors received by the other Rail- road Brotherhoods, but had they not been organized they doubtless would have re- ceived even less. Now, "Loyal Employe,” if you have a family, spend your spare moments with them. No doubt they would like to get acquainted with you. Your "preferred po- sition” will not amount to a darn if tb* Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 333 company takes a notion you are too old to do the work, or want your position for some friend or the worthless son of some official, v A Vetera* Railroader. ANENT THE LOYAL EMPLOYE. I wish it were possible to shake the hand of every one of the brothers who may have worked with this “Loyal Em- ploye” and who have set him back to his miserable asperations toward suckerdom. Any man who is not a member, and who will send such an article to be published in an official organ of the craft in which he is at the time engaged, should be in the care of a keeper. As he states his case, it is really too bad the day is only 24 hours long, he would, I am sure,, be glad to stick around a week if he thought he would save the “Dear Company” a penny. Loyalty is fine business where it is war- ranted, but where the loyalty is expected to be all on one side of the fence, that is a far different proposition. We are all loyal for the period of time during which we are expected to be; but the law does not allow us to hang around at all hours of the day and night waiting for an opportunity to display our yellow streak if we have one, and I am glad to say there are mighty few to-day who have such things. This Mr. Loyal Employe is in a class by himself, and without doubt the only living specimen of the species in captiv- ity. My, isn’t it too bad Barnum is dead. Cert. 918. LABOR TOPICS. As a member of the 0. R. T. who is in favor of the movement on foot to eliminate the various division notes which have been carried in the magazine ever since it has been in existence. I wish to state that these notes are interesting to every member, and to my idea, have been all right in the past. However, the time has come when it is up to organized labor to get representation in the form of men who are friendly to organized labor in our law-making bodies in our different states, as well as both houses of Congress. Capital is organized in such a manner as to jeopardize our interests if we don’t wake up and start a vote-right campaign. And how are we going to know how to vote? We must be instructed some way, If we can’t have a labor press to give us the dope on how our different representa- tives are voting on those bills that are opposed to labor, how are we to know the proper candidates to vote for? Taking our big dailies as a guidance, we will vote the way capital would have us vote, as they are all paid mouthpieces for the monied interests. The American Federation of Labor has an investigating committee for the pur- pose of keeping us posted, in this matter. Why not cut out the division notes to make space for the reports of this com- mittee and also to give more space to the viewpoints of our different members who would be more disposed to send in a sheet or two if there was room for it in our magazine. * Cert. 1008, Div. 36. STATION AGENTS’ RESPONSIBILITY Af^P PAY. After reading some of the discussions in The Telegrapher on Station Agents’ Work ai*l Responsibility, I am consider- ably interested. I cannot let the other members say it all, for my many years of personal experience as station agent has acquainted me with the duties which are thrust upon an agent and the responsibil- ity and hardship he is under. Any sta- tion agent who handles the duties of a station, even with the assistance of a clerk, can realize the responsibility in connection with one’s work. I am going a little further into detail on this subject than the other members have done. The station agent is required to under- stand freight classification, all kinds of freight tariffs, division sheets, percent- age sheets, percentage circulars, routing instructions, waybilling instructions, etc., Digitized by Googk

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334 Tiik Railroad Telegrapher. which precedes the billing of freight. Then he must know about billing and loading of cars. There are also special instructions for the loading, billing, etc., of explosives, acids, inflammable, live- stock, lumber, logs and long and short ma- terial, etc. Then there are minimum and maximum car weights, bridge capacity over which cars must travel and bridge and tunnel clearance. All these matters the agent must be familiar with in hand- ling outbound freight. He also must know about car demurrage rates and rules, the compiling of car demurrage reports. He v must understand the handling of reports of inbound freight business, the revision of erroneous rates and freight charges. He must understand the handling of over, short, damaged and refused freight re- ports, and what to do in the case of over, refused and unclaimed freight, and nu- merous other things pertaining to the freight part of the station work. He must also know all about the handling of pas- senger business, the selling of various kind of tickets, different fares, the check- ing of baggage, what is checkable and what is not; what can be checked as free baggage and what can be checked under charge. The station agent must work. There Is no excuse for him if he is overworked and can't get his reports in on time. He may explain that his station’s business and work has increased and it is impos- sible for him to handle reports promptly, but that doesn’t make any difference, the reports are supposed to come and the work kept up. The agent must understand and make reports to the Auditor of Revenue, Aud- itor of Merchandise Receipts, Auditor of Coal and Coke Receipts, Auditor of Pas- senger Receipts, and the Auditor of Mis- cellaneous Receipts, the Car Demurrage Office, the Freight Claim Office, the Su- perintendent’s Office, etc. In fact, these of- fices handle separately the agents’ reports and he is required to make reports to all of them. Then there is the express busi- ness put upon us to handle and the in- significant amount of commission it pays does not justify the labor required to handle it This commission is counted by the railroad company as part of our salary. Some agents may think they are getting their express commission on the clear, but they are not. I think that one of the worst things put upon the agent especially when he has not time to do It is the lugging of U. S. mail to and from the post office. About Christmas time it is not a pleasant task to pile upon your back about three to five pouches and about half a dozdn parcel post packages and waddle along. Our work in the office must be left undone until this matter has received attention, and if our reports are not out on time, we are questioned as to the delay. Have you ever asked the Su- perintendent for help, explaining the bur- densome amount of work on hand and that assistance was necessary to keep It up, and got turned down? In many in stances the Superintendent does not seem to realize these conditions. The agent must also have patience to bear with passengers standing at bia ticket window, calling for tickets, and the train only a couple of miles or a mile away, and probably half of them wanting their baggage checked. About the same time someone will come rushing in with a box to be expressed on his train, and another passenger will want to know where he changes cars? Some other pas- senger will want to know how long it takes to get there, and you are compelled to look it up in the schedule. When the train arrives, you are not ready with your baggage and express, but you grab up what is ready and rush to get it on. The U. S. mail must be given attention first, and if the train stays there long enough, you may get on your other stuff, and often they don’t wait for express. Have many times followed a train after it has left the station, taking off pieces of express until I could not keep up any longer, and then did not get it all. It doesn't make any difference about the snags, scratches and bruises you get, they all go in with yon* pay. Brothers, I am in the same boat with you, and must say I agree we are not get- ting anywhere near the pay we earn. The Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 335 station agent's Job is a brain-bursting one. It Is a laborious one. He lias more things to think about and do than any other rail- road man from the Superintendent down, and I cannot be much out of the way in saying from the General Superintendent down. The greater portion of the rail- road companies’ revenue, I might say nine-tenths of it, comes'' through the sta- tion agent’s hands. He helps earn this money, and receives hardly a small por- tion o t what he should get. Let us have what is due us. Cert. 1983. v A SQUARE DEAL. Bulletin No. 2206, issued by the banking house of Hambleton & Co., Baltimore, un- der date of February 13, was handed to me by an employer of about 300 men working at his local coal mines. During the recent coal miners’ strike, all his men worked, and he was greatly gratified by their action, but because of this, he is of the opinion that the miners who DID strike are Bolshevists and an- archists. Please note Paragraph 10 under the caption “Labor’s Ambition Might Take a Page Out of History — And With Profit." Quoting, it says: “Organized Labor in- tends to go deeper Into politics. If has been in politics for years, and for a long time has been no meam factor in the set- tlement of issues of- magnitude. It has, however, grown more ambitious and now plans a campaign in which legislators, governors, national executives and the ju- diciary will feel the weight of its influ- ence. It wishes friends in the seats of* the mighty, and. in high places, individuals 'favorable* to the cause of labor. The next three months will probably uncover the plans of the executive council which, in every state, city and hamlet, contemplates a campaign whereby those now In office who are not swayed by considerations in themselves attributable to labor influ- ence will be made to feel the mailed fist of the unions." The writer certainly would like to know just how low down laborers are classed by the capitalists. If we peacefully and re- spectfully ask for better working condi- tions and a living wage, we are told very forcibly to vacate our jobs. If we organ- ize and demand a more equal distribution of this world’s goods, we are classed as anarchists. If we attempt to secure our rights by the God-given right of the bal- lot, then capital sits up on Its haunches and gives out a long heart-rending wail that would give inspiration to John ths Revelator while he was writing the booK of Revelations on the Isle of Patmos. The Bolshevist Is being recognized by the strongest powers in the world, viz, England and the United States and most all the other great nations are treating with the Soviet government either secret- ly or openly, and the laboring class of the United States, as represented by the American Federation of Labor, is un- doubtedly of a higher plane, mentally and morally, and certainly physically, than the long-haired, unwashed Bolshe- vists of Russia. If the Bolshevist is con- sidered as an equal by the different gov- ernments, surely the man who will not countenance a labor organization must have a distorted idea of the laboring class. The capitalist speaks of the “Mailed Fist" of labor. Undoubtedly a mailed fist is less to be feared than the “Iron Heel" that has been on labor’s neck for the last 2,000 years. What in the name of the Almighty God does the capitalist want? He already owns the earth; has the Labor power leased; and does all the governing of the nations and subdivisions of the several different nations, and for the sim- ple reason that Labor is stepping up and demanding something that will place hibi slightly higher than the brutes of the fields, the capitalist is ready to sail into him and shove him back. They speak of Labor’s criticism of “Gov- ernment by Injunction," as if we had de- nied our fathers and mothers. In the eyes of the capitalist. Labor has com- mitted the unpardonable sin just because it has expressed the contemptible action of those who are supposed to represent justice, in putting the deeper imprint of the “Iron Heel" on the neck of Labor. Digitized by Google

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336 The Railroad Telegrapher. How many of our readers have read of the time while Jesus Christ was on this earth and casting out devils, the devils would cry out “Leave us alone,” and when forced to get out, would beg to be allowed to dwell in a flock of hogs. Does this, in any way, remind us of Capital and Labor? Has not the capitalist been the “dog in the manger” for all time until now Labor is beginning to speak with author- ity and Capital is crying “Leave us alone,” and if we will continue to uphold our standard, it will only be a short while (did I hear someone mention something about three months?) until the ones who have not alfeady turned hog actually, will be begging to be allowed to go and dwell with someone who has. I will now speak about my personal feelings, if I may presume so far on the patience of our comrades. 1 am 29 years old, have been working ever since I was 17 (in fact I have been working ever since I have been big enough to hold up a hoe handle), but I have been supporting my- self ever since I was 17 years old. I have made average wages, having begun tele- graphing at the age. of 21 for the magnifi- cent salary of $65.50 (for 11 hours* work) per month. I have not lost over three months* time since then, and my wages have kept pace with what our Order could get out of the employers, until now I make about £175 per month by working this job which includes agency, telegraph- ing, expressman, and Western Union oper- ator and clerk. I could not at the pres- ent time raise more than $400.00, includ- ing liberty bonds, etc., to save my life Now, what is the reason that I am not as good as the man who is born to a million or so and never has to worry about any- thing? Is it a crime for a man to crave a home and enough money in the bank to insure him against becoming a pauper if he or his family should be stricken down by sickness for as long as three months? If it is a crime to desire the good things of this life, then I am thank- ful that I am a criminal. I am absolutely and all the time in favor of any just means that Labor may employ to better its conditions, be it by committee request, strike or politically. • L. C. Thompson. Cert. 133, Div. 13. COMMISSIONS. An article, “Station Agents/’ appearing in the February , issue of the journal, and signed by Certificate 3318, is very much in line with my views, and more especial- ly vhen he strikes the keynote of com- pensation. If there is any part of an agent’s or agent-operator’s work that is burdensome and non-productive from a compensation standpoint,, it is the handling of commer- cial companies' business. Why is It thqt we do not go after them like we have the express companies and others? We certainly do more work, de vote more time, and receive less apprecl ation from them than any of our other employers. v Recently I have, and presume others have, received a circular letter sent out by the Superintendent of Telegraph quot- ing certain parts of a contract between the commercial companies and the rail- roads over which they have lines, setting forth certain reasons why we should.be overzealous to increase the business for the commercial companies, and I would say for the company and not for us. His argument is very good as seen from his lighthouse, but where do we (Jbor operators, who do their work free, come in? We are only being used as a handy boy by the railroads In order that they may get certain concessions from the commercial companies with the ex- penditure of but very little capital, and at the same time fatten the pockets of the companies. This Superintendent “Author*’ of the circular above mentioned, does not once emphasize the fact tjiat in order to in- crease the business for the company, the company would grant a voluntary in- crease for our efforts towards increasing its business, but as heretofore we are ex- pected to do this without increased com- pensation , thanks or gratitude. As stated Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telroraphbr. by him in his circular letter, we receive 10 per cent “this line” toll and CND., and makes the suggestion that we strive to in- crease our, or rather their, business in order to increase our compensation. A wise plan from his point of view, but isn’t there room for more speedy action on our part which will insure receiving a more liberal percentage of their enormous profits than hustling to increase business for it Why is it that our “officials” do not call their hand? I am sure they would find the whole-hearted support of every man who handles their business, and would be glad to back them in any re- quest or demand they should make, even if it were to discontinue entirely handling their business. Let us all pull together and see if “Unity” will not win in this case as it has liv others. Let our reports be of action instead of talk. Cert. .367, Div. 15. MORE ABOUT COMMISSIONS. In the January issue of The Teleg- rapher I noticed an article headed “Com- missions,” and signed Cert. 107, which amused me, and I would like to say a few words along this line. No doubt this man is right in his ideas, but I consider him an extremely lucky chap. To begin with, he had to handle only one hundred Western Union messages wherein the office where I work we han- dle about two hundred and fifty to three hundred per month in the winter, and five hundred to six hundred per month in the summer, which ia all sending and no receiving work. We get no commission at all, but the railroad gets forty per cent of the tolls collected by us. I do not care how much commission the railroad gets out of this business; in fact, I wish they got all the charges, as they are the people that give us our living. The part of the above-men- tioned article that pleases me most of all was that the operator could handle his messages, including his accounting, on an average of five minutes to a mes- sage. Certainly the service on his road 337 must be lovely in comparison with what it i6 on mine. I will now illustrate about our average service. On January 8th I had a message filed at 4:16 P. M. and immediately cut In on tjbe Western Union wire, and called the relay office until 4:26 P. M., when a man at the relay office broke in on the wire and began to call an independent of- fice (regardless of the fact that a railroad office has a right to take a wire at any time from an independent office). I again called him and signed, and once more he called the independent office This continued for about fifteen minutes, when he began calling still another inde- pendent office, and still 1 kept after him. The remarks that he made on the wire and the language he used would not be fit to use five thousand miles back in the deep forests. I finally called our uptown main office oq the phone and asked them to have the Wire Chief in the relay office come on my local wire and see what was going on. However, he was so long getting there that I had disposed of my four-word message after fifty-four minutes of hard struggling and standing all kinds of abuse, profanity and vulgarity. Would not I love to get rid of just one Western Union message in five minutes. This office I work in is at the end of the double track with three single track branches running in here, and we handle about seventy-five trains a day. We have a big engine house here, with a large re- pair shop attached, a large carpenter’s crew, a first-class wrecking train, a Su- pervisor of Tracks, and a large freight house. All of these give us a lot of mes- sage work, probably five hundred mes sages a day on an average. This is a ter- minal for a great main trains, and we handle quanities of relay reports and other work. As near as I can figure it, at the rate we handle Western Union business it would take at least two hundred and fifty operators to run the office, and, as a mat ter of fact, we have three eight-hour tricks, one man to a trick. In thise case I am speaking of. in add! Digitized by Google

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338 The Railroad Telegrapher. tlon to spending fifty-four minutes getting rid of & message, I spent at least forty* five minutes writing a letter to the Rail- road Superintendent explaining the situ- ation and asking for better service. Evi- dently this Superintendent didn’t take kindly to my letter, as he turned it over to the Railroad Division Superintendent, who passed it along to our Trainmaster to investigate. He did some investigating at other offices before calling on me, He found the same trouble existed every- where, was ‘satisfied that my complaint was a Just one, and gave me a very square deal, which, of course, I appreciated. Can anyone imagine such service? Fig ure it out. If I had nine Western Union messages of four words each, I would have to work over my eight hours to get rid of them, at thjs rate, and then know that the Wire Chief in the big relay office is going to support the operator in such actions as this. If I make a complaint, to the Superintendent of Telegraph he Is going to turn me in to the Division Su- perintendent. Yours for health, and char- ity to the dear old Western Union. Cert. 448, Div. 41. U. S. MAIL. A whole lot has been said about more money and back time and all this, that and something else, BUT, are you Broth- ers NOT still slaving for Uncle Sam with- out compensation, to help him keep his postmasters looking bright and clean, and cheerful since they have received three salary increases recently. Why can’t the postmasters handle this mail between depots and post offices; they have nothing else to do at this particular time. Why should we expect the railroad to hire a messenger or make us do it for nothing. We should quit thinking about this back time and notify the Govern- ment and railroad that we are through with handling U. S. mail and parcel post, except to and from trains and station platforms. I have been handling U. S. mall for 17 years and have never re ceived a penny for the service, and never will. A Brother asks in the January number why the Government and even the rail- road officials think so little of us, or why they class us below the common laborer? Why it is where we are put we go along day after day contented with this condi- tion. No other set of men wbuld work unless you pay them. We do. Some say if they don’t give us more pay we will stride. I have been a member 13 years and hold an annual card now, but if it comes to a strike about anything else except the U. S. mail proposition, well let's think of things more pleasant. Brothers, let’s drop everything else right now and get rid of the handling of U. S.. mail; then I will be plenty of time to ask for back time. The railroads are getting up dope about the time consumed by each slave in handling mail. The Government has decided to pay the railroads on the space basis, as you know, and they are going to ask for side service money from the Government for the work you are doing Are we going to stand for such thingB? Let's quit talking, and for goodness sake petition our officers to Jointly notify the Government and railroads that some other arrangement will be necessary to get the mall to and from the station plat forms. W. C. Harmon. THE STATION OPERATOR. I have been reading the many good dls cussions in the Journal concerning the relay operator, trick operator and agent- operator, and find that there is still an- other class of operators who are entitled to a little consideration as well, and that is the station operator. When an operator accepts service with a railroad company, he serves as an oper- ator with duties pertaining to the han- dling of trains, and nothing else; but, of course, it is understood that he la re quired to do a certain amount of clerical work, if he is sent to a station to work, and about the first thing he Is asked after being introduced to the agent, is; “Do you know anything about agent* work?” If he does, the agent will proceed Digitized by Google

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The H .vn. road Telegrapher. 339 t to give him a line-up on what agents’ work he is expected to do, and if he does not know anything about agents' work, the agent will proceed to “put him next* in order that he may look after his work in his absence. Of course, if the operator is sent to a tower or cabin to work, he has no clerical work or agent to bother with. The station operator, in order that he may intelligently look after the agent’s work in his absence, must be a freight agent, ticket agent, express' agent; must understand tariffs, rates, and must know all about embargoes and a thousand other things which go with an agency, and must “hustle" baggage and heavy freight from one end of the platform to the other, and handle Western Union messages, in addi- tion to handling the same trains that the tower or cabin operator handle, who after reporting an occasional train by, can sit back in his easy chair behind a cloud of smoke and enjoy a newspaper or a friend- ly magazine, and^ draw the same rate of pay (and in some cases a higher rate) as the station operator. Now the question is (with all due re- spect to the tower operator) is it fair that the station operator should only draw the same salary as the tower or cabin oper- ator, or should he be relieved of doing all this clerical work, and by so doing give some other man a good job? We hear the boys howl when some train- man copies a train order over the tele- phone (which is rare oh this division), thus depriving some operator of a good job, but at the same time we do a lot of clerical work for the agent, thus depriv- ing some clerk of his bread and butter. The same rule applies in both cases identically. The Brother Cert. 816 in the February issues states that “While we are weeding gardens elsewhere, let us keep our own clean.” That statement is true, but how are you going to live up to it unless you have an organization and a schedule to hack you up in it? If you refuse to do the work, you are in trouble, and subject to dismissal, as there is always someone else to take your place. The Order has done many other good things for us, why can’t it help us in this line as well? It should wake up to this fact, and use^ts influence to relieve the operator 6f all this' clerical work, or take the operator away from the agent, and if the agent is un- able to handle his work in eight hours, let a clerk be hired. I am glad to know that on some roads this step has already been taken to some extent. The agent 1 who has an operator capable of looking after his work in his absence, considers himself fortunate, and in a good many cases takes advantage of the oper ator in this respect. He will put in a few short hours in the forenoon, and an hour or two in the afternoon, and the remain der of the time is enjoying the pleasure of being at home with his family, or speed- ing over the country in his automobile, with the full knowledge that his job is being taken care of by the operator on duty, who is stuck for eight solid hours, without even a meal hour, and who has to enjoy, the best he can, a cold dinner or supper (eaten whenever he gets a chance) which was prepared six or eight hours previous, unless he is blessed with a faith- ful wife or child who carries a warm meal to him. He works seven days a week. Sundays or holidays are unknown to him, and if he checks up short during the time he is protecting the agent's job, he stands the shortage. The agent receives a good- ly commission on all express and the oper- ator handles the lion’s share of it, especial- ly the “juggling" part of It, but receives no compensation whatever. Scarcely re- ceives thanks. It seems to me that where operators are required to handle express they should at least receive a portion of the commission. On this road operators do not receive commission on Western Union at all. The Western Union is not able to even pay the meager sum that thr* Brother Cert. 2464 spoke about in the Feb ruary issue, and the operators are even re- quired to make up the monthly report. Some more free gratis work. Brothers, let us wake up to the fact that by doing all this clerical work, we are not only depriving some other good man out of a job, but we are simply do- Digitized by Google

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340 The Railroad \ natlng our work, and it is all clear gain for the railroad company. f am with the boys who are advocating time and one-half for Sundays and holi- days. We should either get extra compen sation for these days, or be relieved so that we may be able to enjoy some of the privileges which other employes enjoy. Why should one class of railroad em- ployes deceive time and one-half for gun- day and holiday work and not all. A clear case of discrimination. Now, boys, this is not idle talk. It is straight facts. It is a good chance for the order to do some missionary work. Let us all get behind it and boost I would like to hear some more comment on the subject, as there is much to be said. Cebt. 3693. Telegrapher. \ of. I will admit that the man who takes the small agency makes a sacrifice, and deprives himself and family of many pleasures, and should be paid a high rate of pay to do so, but that is no reason he should call telegraphers lazy who do not look at these positions in the same light as he does. The fact of the matter is he has been hiding his light under a bushel basket and has just awakened to the fact that he wants to be a supervisory agent. How would “some operator” like to work for him when he reaches this high posi- tion? It makes no difference whether he likes it or not when the roads are returned to private ownership, representative ca- pacity is what will count and if he can show these qualifications coupled with length of service he will get the Jdb. “Old Timer.” “SOME OPERATOR.” In looking over our valued Journal for the month of February I find an article written by an agent-telegrapher, in which he blames the cause of his condi- tion and non-advancement on “some oper- ator” who bids in the most desirable agency when it comes up for bids. In most of our schedules we find that all telegraphers will be regarded in line for promotion and advancement upon the faithful discharge of his duties and ca- pacity for increased responsibility, where conduct and ability permit seniority will govern, etc., etc. It seems to me this bird has a bun on himself and thinks that if there are any brain on the line he has 'em. He says a movement will be started that will shake the O. R. T. to its founda tion stone. In most schedules the Agent- Telegrapher is protected by the provision that they cannot be displaced by a teleg- rapher, and I know of some cases at pres- ent Where agent-telegraphers are ready to jump in at once and take positions made vacant by operators and bump them if possible. It goes without saying that what, this brother says must be the rule, but I know “some operator” as he is pleased to call us, does more real hard work and handles more real money in a week than some of these birds ever heard WHY NOT. I have read quite a few articles in the Telegrapher lately concerning agents and operators. Having worked as agent and operator for a good many years, maybe a suggestion or two would not be amiss Why not classify operators and jobs? Also classify agent-operators and agent- operators* jobs. This would eliminate the possibility of a man with little or no ex perience getting a job and having his clerks or operators hold it for him until he was competent to do so himself. We have examinations regularly on the “movement of trains by train orders, etc ” Why not hold wire examinations each year; also station accounting examina tions each year, and put each man in his proper class? As it now stands, an operator with a week’s experience, and who cannot even balance an abstract, copy a message cor rectly, nor copy a train order without d* laying trains, receives as much money as an operator who has had years of experi- ence. This is not fair to. the employer nor to the employe. In many departments em- ployes are paid a certain amount to start which amount is increased as they show ability to earn more. I am in favor of Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 341 deducting some from the man who is learning, and adding to the man who can "hit the ball.” What about it? - Cebt. 531. THE AGENT-TELEGRAPHER. Referring to the article entitled “The Agent-Telegrapher,” In the February Is- sue of our Journal, by Cert. 174, I note the author claims the good agencies are being taken away from the agent-telegra- phers by the straight telegraphers. I have read copies of many of the contracts entered Into between the Order of Rail- road Telegraphers and the companies and the majority I believe cover this matter by stating “Where ability is sufficient seniority will prevail,” or words to that effect If any telegrapher bids in a posi- tion and becomes incapacitated, he is com- pelled to give up the position and return to his former position. I wonder If Cert. 174 is aware of the fact that at the pres- ent time the major portion of dues is be- ing paid by. straight telegraphers and in- terlocking men and, furthermore, that the farther you go back in the history of the organization you will find this class was of the greatest percentage. While I have been in the business since 1902 and can well remember that the agent- operators and the straight agents used to consider themselves “officials” and beneath their dignity to be classed as a member of a labor union, some of them to my certain knowledge not only refused to become members of the O. R. T., but persisted in reporting all union activities of “their operators” to their division superintend- ent, thinking, no doubt, to curry favor with the higher officials. Now brothers, we all are aware of the fact that the straight telegrapher bore the burden of the battle and continued to carry on when it meant dismissal to wear the “button,” and where, oh where, was the agent-oper- ator and the straight agent then? Were they rushing into print demanding that they be .allowed their full share of the burden? Nay, nay, echo answers, no. There is only one way to work seniority and that is to work it. If the older em- ploye for any reason desires to work a straight telegraph or non-agency position for any certain length of time and at any future time if he desires to bid in an agency, I claim in the language of the street “that is his business.” To the agent- N operator and others I would suggest that you use a little moderation. Don’t come in and make the first payment of dues, then expect that the entire organization should be turned over to you pronto. Re- member the words of the late popular war song, “Don’t bite the hand that’s feed- ing you.” You cannot curtail the seniority of the telegrapher no more than you can confine the activities of the American eagle to a two by four cage. H. E. Arnold LABOR IN POLITICS. For some time labor in politics has been a burning question in the American labor movement, at least in so far as the unions are concerned. The American Federation of Labor, which has in the past main- tained that it was in no way political, has in many of its conventions, both state and national, within the last year, taken up the question of entering politics for the purpose of accomplishing its ends. This policy has been opposed by many on the ground that by not uniting with any of the existing parties or the organization of a new party, left the organization free to grant or withhold its support and would be in a position to reward its friends and punish its enemies, and by this means to accomplish the desired re- sult In order to make a clear analysis of this question it becomes necessary to first define this subject, labor in politics. La- bor can best be defined as a living indi- viduality of the workers; and by workers is meant those who perform useful serv- ice for society with hand or brain. For a definition of politics, the one given by Edward M. Jenks, an English historian, in his history of politics, seems the clearest Politics is the business of government and government is the means by which people are held together in society, leaving the Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. .‘342 various forms of society that might be mentioned and coming at once to those forms of society which have sprung up al- most spontaneously as a part of the uni- versal history; of mankind. This defini- tion is followed by another which defines government as the means by which one class is kept in subjection to another. Thus admitting class distinctions. And a final definition of political action as any means by which one class or state is kept in subjection to another, or the means used by the subject class or state to gain mastery over their oppressors. Now comes the question of political parties, and here lies the important part of this article. Political parties are formed and financed in the interests of those who form and finance them. The fact that there are labor unions and a labor move- ment is proof that there is an existing struggle going on in society between two antagonistic groups, employer and em- ployed. This struggle may be defined as the class struggle, and has been going on since the dissolution of primitive tribal society holding land in common ; this dis- solution marks the beginning of slavery, private property and government, slavery becoming a reality only when it was dis covered that a slave could produce more than was required for his support. This was the introduction of private property, in slaves, and government as a means of keeping them in subjection. A mere glance at existing conditions will show * the parallel existing in the modern labor movement. Where the for mer was a slave state, the latter is based on wage labor, and the rapid development of the industrial and economic system in- tensifies the struggle. Having defined the subject and the basis of the antagonisms, our next task is to examine labor in politics in action in order to ascertain its strength and weak- ness, as well as what action will bring the best results in the future. Having found that political parties were the expression of the material interests of certain classes or groups existing in society, and that the labor movement was the result of the con- flict of interests between an employing and employed class, now brings us to the question bf remaining out of politics, to so far as a real party based on the inter- ests of labor Is concerned and merely throwing our support to the so-called friends of labor whose names appear on other party tickets. While it is possi- ble to write pages to illustrate the saying that? he who pays the fiddler calls the tune, many examples might also be shown where political parties representing the employing class have selected candidates from the ranks of the workers; even union men, as a means of blinding the workers in their attempts to prove that they are the true friends of labor, but when the strike comes and the economic interests of the employers are at stake, on which side are they to be found? With out citing examples, these labor candi- dates, former union men, in many cases have become the enemies of the workers. Simply leaving this for the thoughtful consideration of the reader and passing on to the next phase of the question, the advisability of the workers organizing themselves into a political party, formed and financed for the purpoae of their emancipation, namely, removing them from their subject position. While this seems the most logical, there are still many barriers that must be removed be fore this can be accomplished. Let us not be deceived In this struggle that is being waged between capital and labor. Political parties express the interests of classes. If labor in politics is to ac- complish anything aaide from being the wavering balance of power swayed thic way and that, at the behest of political leaders, and at times the labor leader, the workers themselves must be raised to a higher understanding of the industrial, political, and economic development of the times. Let us now compare the rise of the la bor movement with the industrial develop- ment of the country. Following the civil war, industry took on a rapid growth, the consolidation of the small shops into the factory system, the rapid building of railroads uniting the east with the we** Digitized ized by CjOCK^Ic

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 343 and the north with the south changed the country from one of individual produc- tion with the employment of few laborers to social production employing thousands. The development ever increasing the con- flict of interests between employer and employed, produced a corresponding de- velopment of the labor movement. Unions were organized, the workers realizing their inability of dealing with the employ- ers single handed, as factory production had passed on to the trustification of in- dustry where the large capitalists, the owners, were removed from production and were represented in industry by hired superintendents, managers and even presi- dents; and not only this, the elected rep- resentatives of the state, became their servants. And note how quickly the police are called in the case of a strike, and if the police fail to satisfy the inter- ests of the employers, how quickly the Governor is on the job with the troops. These are happenings so common as to need no comment, and here again arises the question, shall labor enter politics? And recognizing that in all cases the struggle between classes becomes a politi- cal struggle, it becomes self-evident that labor must enter politics, not merely as supporters of existing parties, but rather by organizing themselves into a class conscious political party based on the in- telligent class interests of labor. While politics is necessary, intelligence is the first essential requisite for the accom- plishment of the final triumph of the workers. Let us close with a final quotation from "Value, Price and Profit,” by Karl Marx. 'Trade unions have worked well as cen- ters of resistence against the encroach- ments of capital. They fail partially from an injudicious use of their power. They fail generally from limiting themselves to a guerilla war against the effects of the existing system, instead of simultaneous- ly trying to change it, instead of using their organized forces as a lever for the Anal emancipation of the working class, that is to say, the ultimate abolution of the wages system.” B. G. Mabsae,. . Cert 435, Div. 39. AN UNBIASED PRESS. There is a great deal being said about inaugurating a daily news service by and for the benefit of labor organizations. Such a news service would not only be beneficial to labor organizations, but would be an international benefit to all humanity, and I for one, am in favor of it to the extent that I will gladly pay as much as one hundred dollars gratuitously to assist in putting it into effect, and I do not believe that I would be far from right if I said that enough of American labor would donate to tfiis cause to raise a fund sufficient to have a series of the' best daily newspapers the world has ever known; but that is not necessary, it is not neces- sary to raise funds for- such a cause; all that is necessary is to get the movement started and put a committee after it ~hat understands what is necessary and how to accomplish it I do not see that it would be absolutely necessary to have a daily news service. A weekly magazine, if put out properly, would soon become popular enough to cover this entire continent. It should be edited by men of high intelli- gence and unbiased minds, and the aim should be the betterment not only of or- ganized labor’s conditions, but the condi- tions of every individual that is now, or hereafter would, suffer from the selfish lusts of autocracy. There is no real pub- licity system in this country. I believe most people will agree with me that our press is owned and controlled by capital- ists, and that every item is censored be fore it is published. Everything connected with our publicity system is a one-sided affair, and we need not expect to move forward by the slight of hand. Propa- ganda is one of the strongest agencies that has ever been known to mankind to accomplish a given end, still we sit idly and watch the autocratic bunch smear it in on our own class, and on election days we see the result (on “injunction days” we feel it). Are we going to stand by and see the freedom we won with blood taken away from us? I believe If this matter had been properly looked after even two years ago, that there would have been no injunctions issued to oompel men to work. Digitized by Google

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344 Th k Railroad Telegrapher. but as there is nothing to fear, as there is no comeback, why should a politician hesitate in doing a few stunts? Why he could thereby win the support of the cap- italists and at least be that much ahead in the next election. But you might bet your last dollar that if there had been a good genuine unbiased publicity system, he would have been far from taking that risk. Most everyone elected to a legisla- tive position is a professional politician; he follows that for a living, and makes laws so he can follow it easily, and along the line that the most, money is in. Re- member It is a living he is after; he is going to run in order to be elected, not for the pleasure of being in the race, and he starts out by lining up with the news- papers, and, if possible, with the one that covers the largest territory. Now, suppose we had a magazine that reached practically all families, and every side of every item given attention by un- biased editors, it would certainly soon de- mand the attention of every sane mind before it was in circulation long. It would be considered an authority on ev- ery subject, then you could depend on the right man being elected. / Now boys, let us give this thing a “shove.” There is nothing impossible un- der the sun, and American laboring class- es are too proud to climb poles to make room for a man that don't work. This government and all is ours, and while it might be temporarily in control of a few, democracy is bound to win. These politi- cal bumfuddles have been tongue-lashing us, they use to say such things as “Sure, we'll finish the job,” and print a work- man’s picture at the side of it and a great deal of other things, but that wa3 while they were crooneying with us when we stood between them and the kaiser. Now' the ships are built, the bonds are sold, the kaiser is whipped and our hand- out has decreased by one-third, and we are “Bolshevists.” Let’s publish a news- paper of our own. We want one especially designed to tell nothing but the truth at all costs and hazards, and put the lie to the biggest thing that ever uttered one. After we get this, then put a set of men in charge of it who have every qualification that' is necessary, such as cool tempers, fast thinkers, deliberate in making d* cisions. 9 G. L. Brown, ' Div. 56. * WHAT WILL THE COMPANY UNION DO FOR YOU? When certain railroad corporations launch the company union they now have in mind, Its leaders will be instructed to so cbmport themselves that they may turn it to the corporation’s advantage Employing, as they do, many men think- ing themselves elevated to the official class, these men will be eager to serve their masters, and having the full confi- dence and co-operation of the higher ups, will exert a tremendous influence through an educational campaign for employes to join the company unio'n. The first move this union will make wil1 be to demoralize the bona-fide union of men bound together for collective bar- gaining, by means of an insidious propa- ganda carefully devised for that purpose. And the ultimate desire will be to reduce to a minimum and destroy, if possible* the integrity and influence of the real union, so that it will be useless for it to try to carry on the program of elevating the working class to better conditions and the securing of higher wages. It will require great exertion on the part of the union men in this country, if they are to climb higher instead of falling lower in the economic scheme of affairs. Let everyone stand the test so that we may prove our- selves equal to the task^ We know what to expect from the capi talistic class in the future. We have only to remember what it has done to us in the past. You will without a doubt join me in my opinion. We know the tree by the fruit it bears. The world moves fast and human progress should not reoede before the vicious attacks and diabolical intrigues of reactionary and autocratic in- dustrial despots, k The working class of this country must assert itself at this time, and prepare to fight to a finish it need be, the fight for right of justice. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 345 Unmistakable signs point to an effort > In the near future — and in some instances it has already begun — to employ company anions to destroy the real unions. Their program will be cunningly devised to do ceive the unwary. We ask this question: MIf the railroad corporations have any re- gard for the welfare of their men, why do'they move heaven and earth, and spend millions of dollars to destroy the organi- zations y which have secured everything the working class possesses today ?" Brothers, beware* of company unions controlled by hand-picked officers. They are an insult to your intelligence. The Railroad Brotherhoods will not permit these fake unions to be foisted upon them. They would consider an attempt to do so as an outrageous insult to their manhood. Our common sense should tell us the only purpose of such unions. The corporations were not sufficiently interested in our be- half in the past to organize unions. Why are they so solicitous today? If we are to continue to be industrially free, we must remain loyal to the organi- zations that have made us free, and strive through them to secure the additional power and place to which we aspire. It is in the vigorous life and potent influence of the bona-fide trades union that the sal- vation of the working class lies today. May we see this fact clearly and be real inen* brave and true through all the vicissitudes we are destined to encounter until we come into our own? Whart'will the company union do for you? It will do for you the thing for which it has been devised — it will destroy your legitimate union, strip you of every vestige of voice as to your working con- ditions and wages, and turn you back again to the industrial serfdom out of which you are just starting to emerge. This is what it will do for you — this, and nothing else — for it has no other purpose in the minds of its creators. Yeu have already heard the opening guns fired in the villainous campaign; the secret awards and settlements to certain favored crafts, and the launching of a dual organization on Sunday, Jan. 26, 1920, at a meeting held in the city of Cincinnati, at which tmie it went on record as evidenced by the following clip- ping from the Commercial Tribune : “Workers adopt no strike plan in or- ganization— Order of Railway Agents de- nounces the Plumb plan and indorses the Cummins bill pending in Congress. “The Buckeye Division, No. 36, Order of Railroad Station Agents, at a meeting at the Hotel Gibson, yesterday, con- demned the Plumb plan for government ownership of railroads. At the same time endorsement was given the Cummins bill now pending in Congress. “E. D. Baldwin, of Columbus, Ohio, chairman of this division, explained the purpose of the organization. “We hold peculiar positions/' Mr. Bald win said, “We are the fellows between the officials and the men. We handle all the money and transact the business of the roads. We are under bond, and it is our duty to see that the business goes on. In these days when radicalism is in the ascendance we intend to be the balance wheel to keep business going on normally, if possible. “We do not believe in strikes and have declared against them . “It was said that there was no discus sion relative to affiliating with any of the other railroad brotherhoods or the Ameri- can Federation of Labor." “Beware the Greeks bearing gifts!" “Ajax." “LET THE FRATERNAL ITEMS BE CONTINUED" Regarding the proposed discontinuance of the fraternal items. I have been a reader of the Telegrapher for the past ten years and I am one of the nine out of ten readers who first turn to the fraternal items covering the road I am at the pres- ent time employed on to see what is hap- pening on the division, after which I read the items from roads I have previously worked for. I think I am voicing the sentiments of the majority of the brothers and sisters on the Montana Division when I say “Let the fraternal items be continued." V. J. SWAWSOIf. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. U6 "PHONE AND HELPER JOBS." There comes a time in the lives of some when through our own egoism we imagine ourselves to have become su- perior beings and pose as advisors or dic- tators which quite often causes friction and discord. No doubt our Sister is well meaning and imagines she voices the will of the order, but the word phone sways her bet ter Judgment. She advocates boycotting the phone operators} on general prin- ciples by not giving information, or even extending them common courtesies, re- gardless of whether they are members of the order or not It would seem that she preferred an exclusive order, but she must admit that the phone operators are human beings that eat, sleep, sufTer, laugh and have the same interest in life and the same affections for their loved ones as the more fortunate Sisters and Broth- ers who are telegraph operators. It would seem better to build up than tear down, protect and not destroy the influence of any of our members, regard- less of their menial position, as they may be truly loyal to the order, their hearts may be in the right place and ever ready to extend a helping hand to any unfor- tunate Sister or Brother, whether they be a phone operator, telegrapher or agent. Instead of casting reflections upon any class give words of encouragement that we may have the satisfaction of know- ing that we as members of our order have done our duty, “with good will toward all and malice toward none/’ Cebt. 1786, Div. 70. MORE ON THE SUBJECT OF COM- MISSIONS. In looking over the February issue of The Telegrapher I happened to read the article “A Subject for Thought,” and wish to say In answer to his article that our good reliable 0. R. T. should have a few more members with the same opinion re- garding commercial business, also the business of different express companies operating on the many railroads of this country. This worthy brother states that he handled eight hundred dollars' worth of business for a commission of $6.25. That is very encouraging, to say the least 1 myself until the last two months have been working as a relief agent on one of the largest railroads in this country, and in my past experiences I have had many similar cases as mentioned above. One office in particular that I worked handled approximately one thousand dollars worth of commercial business monthly, and the commission averaged about $18 to $25 monthly. Very often you read of the commercial companies giving their loyal employes a nice bonus. That is all very well, but will some one please tell why railroad operators are nqver included In these gifts? Very often I have been called out at midnight to handle messages for pa trons and the compensation one gets for getting up on a cold night and walking several blocks to the office will probably be 4 or 6 and seldom Over 10 cents, unless the patron happens to be a real good fellow and voluntarily donates a little. I have made a careful study of the system of handling commercial business anl have reached the conclusion that they are working the railroads’ operators as a bunch of easy ones. Why should we sit by and let some railroad officials make a contract with commercial telegraph com- panies that we will handle their busi- ness for the pitiful sum of ten per cent on money handled. We should have some say in regard to this, and if all are like me, we would receive at least fifteen per cent on all business handled, and then they would be getting the work cheap. The commercial companies have the point down very fine, namely, the opera- tors at large offices are paid on a salary basis, receiving salary whether they han- dle much or little. On the other hand we work for a small commission, and to beat us out of this they issue collect cards to all who prove themselves reliable, and then we handle this business for nothing whatever. The express companies also Digitized by Google *

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 347 adopt the same methods, only nre a little more liberal, as they pay a commission on all business handled, and that is not enough considering the trouble in making up their very complicated reports, an- swering correspondence, etc. We should have a minimum wage for each office with commission for all business handled above that amount. I think each and every Brother will stand by me in these state- ments, and if we will prevail on our local and general chairmen something can be done to remedy these conditions. Let us all get buBy today. Delay means loss. Cert. 1285, Div. 36. RELAY PHONER. I agree with Cert. 781, Div. 130, in his article appearing in the December issue, urging a more equal basis for the relay phoner as compared with the relay teleg- rapher, but wish to contradict his state- ment in regard to the organization not having made a strong effort to put the phoner on a more equal basis with the relay telegrapher. Being in a position to know, I can say that every conceivable means has been ex- hausted up to this time for an equaliza- tion. As yet we have not been success- ful, but have made steady progress along that line. The relay phoners are prac- tically new recruits in the organization We had to take them as we found them and build on a condition which they themselves had established. Wherever anything exists, there must be a cause for its existence. If Cert. 781 will thoroughly analyze this existing condition, he will readily understand why the relay phoner is not on a basis with the relay teleg- rapher up to this time, although the or- ganization has been making strenuous ef- forts along that line. It is true that the “OS” phoner and telegrapher are on the same basis. It is also true that handling messages by telegraph or telephone is only considered part of their duties, so their salaries are not based entirely on that question. I think it will be found that there are nu- merous cases where the phoner receives better wages than the Morse operator. When the telephones were first installed along the line, the telegraphers were pretty well organized, so when they were confronted with the reduction in wages they informed the officials of the organ! zation that they would refuse to work for the reduced wages. The officials of the organization took the matter in hand and had salaries restored, where they had been reduced. They could not fail in such an undertaking, because the mem- bers were a unity behind them on this particular question. After that the use of the telephone was extended until it reached the relay offices. The telegraphers in such offices were will- ing to work the phones, but not at a re- duced salary. That same condition holds good up to the present time. The OS man would not come into the relay office and do the work for less than he received on the road, consequently the railroad had to go on the outside to get people who were willing to work for the wages the> proposed to pay. I am in full sympathy with the relay phoner and am thoroughly convinced he should receive the same salary as the re- lay telegrapher, but that condition will have to be brought about by degrees. It is a well known fact that the relay teleg- rapher would expect an increase in salary If he was compelled to work telephones exclusively. J. J. Rose. TO THE LOYAL EMPLOYE. The Telegrapher was so full of good things this month, I can hardly decide which is the best. I must say, however, that the one from the Non and Loyal Em- ploye is a corker, but must say it favors “nons” I have met. After reading this article I wondered if the fellow who wrote it knew that there had been a world war. and that he could no longer buy flour at $3.50 per barrel, meat for 10 cents a pound and the best pair of shoes for $3.50. and a dandy suit of clothes for $15.00, and everything else had increased in pro- portion. Digitized by Google

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348 Tiie Railroad Telegrapher. Such fellows as this is the reason that agents and operators have lived from hand to mouth for many years and have received barely enough to Keep soul and body together. It makes me sick to hear such fellows blow about their loyalty. To my certain knowledge there is not a more loyal bunch working for the railroads of the country than the Ot R. T. boys, and I challenge Mr. Non to show me where we have been disloyal to the employer. v There is no loyalty in the fellow who is willing to sit down and work night and day for nothing, let his family go half naked, half fed, and allow his chil- dren to grow up in the world with no education. He wonders how the boys of today ex- pect promotion. If shoveling snow, bedding stock cars and scrubbing would get promotion, this fellow would not be hanging out at some small agency. When the officials look for a man to. fill the dispatcher’s office, they never ask how many stock cars you have bedded, how well you can scour or how well you can shovel snow; but can you hit the ball and get the trains over the road without the least delay. No man can learn to get trains over the road bedding stock cars and shoveling snow. The railroad companies can hire men for this kind of work who can not even write their own name, and at a much smaller salary. Old Non, keep up bedding your stock cars, shoveling snow and scrubbing, and you will be holding* down some small agency the rest of your days. Cert. 121, Div. 57. AGENT-TELEGRAPHER AND STATION AGENT. I, too, recommend the article and clause in accordance with the item in last month’s magazine, entitled “The Agent- Telegrapher,” it is really unfair to those working as agent-telegrapher to be knocked out by some man who has previ- ously been holding a straight telegraph position. I believe it would help out the efficiency 6f work performed as well as making a more binding contract and a stronger contract with the railroad com panies. I believe our contract should provide that an operator should have not less than two years’ experience as agent- telegrapher or agent at a one-man sta- tion. The artlcte in last month's maga- zine written by Cert. 3318 is one which I believe of much importance to all oper- ators and agents handling Western Union business. I would recommend that we should receive at least ten per cent com- mission on all messages handled, both ways, whether we handle the actual cash for them or not. We have to perform the work of making the reports and see- ing that the messages move without de- lay, and in the long run we seldom re ceive more than three or four dollars a month for the whole thing, although we may have handled two or three hundred dollars’ worth of business for the Western Union company. The express business also is very burdensome and requires lots of our time and personal attention while in return the boys on this division — No. 61 — are receiving nothing at all for doing so. Cert. 2783. ORGANIZATION. Closed organization and affiliation be- tween the different labor organizations, together with sincere co-opertation in the application of the principles of arbitration cannot do other than maintain, the high estimation which the world holds for or-* ganized labor today. Organization and affiliation between our different fraternities has been very instru- mental in placing you and I on this high plane, and if we are still to enjoy the just reward for our toil, we must not forget that vital fact. Bernard Shaw recently said that "A clerk who did not join some kind of or- ganization for his betterment was a fool/’ and we agree with Mr. Shaw. The enemies of labor have charged that organization and seniority rights destroy the initiative spirit of the worker, that he becomes dilatory and slothful, that he doesn’t care whether he performs his Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 349 duties in an efficient manner or not, as his union will protect him. But you and I know that this is not true. Such serv- v ice is not countenanced by his organiza- tion, neither by his co-worker, and we should herald this fact broadcast to the public. We are forced to acknowledge that pub- lic sentiment has great weight and as the press is largely controlled by the enemies of organization, it behooves us to see that our cause is as fairly presented to the public as possible. It would be great for organized labor to have a daily with a large circulation, in which we could pre sent our cause in its proper light. Fewer hours, improved working condi- tions, and just wages, these are the three blessings the laborer has been able to se- cure through his organization. The accompaniments of these are usually a good home, a happy family and time to enjoy the rights of citizenship. Is there any wonder we are enthused about our organization? Does organized labor receive a living wage? Half a decade ago the expression “a liv ing wage” was very common, and it now openly admitted that the laborer of a decade ago did not receive a living wage, but organization has changed that. The slaves of former periods received what we believe constitutes a living wage, viz., food and clothes. “Yes, we receive more than a living wage, a#d the fickle public now admits that we always were entitled to more than a living wage. Just a word of warning, "Stay organ- ized.” Cert. 1994, Div. 61. One of Our Pioneers Newman B. Curry, a member of Pennsyl- vania Railroad System. Division No/* 17, bears the enviable record of having held 33 consecutive years of membership in the Order in addition to having completed fifty years' and two months in the telegraph serv- ice, after which he was recently retired by the Pennsylvania Railroad. He entered the employ of the Western Union Telegraph Company as a messenger boy in 1867, from which he was promoted to the operating room of that company in January, 1869. During the latter part of that year he was transferred to President Street Station, Bal- timore, then the terminus of the old P. B. & W., but now a part of the Pennsylvania Sys- tem. From there he was transferred to Bayview Junction in 1880, remaining at the latter place continuously until February 28th last. If one should be fortunate enough to catch him in a reminiscent mood, he can be entertained for hours by a recital of the many interesting events which have trans- pired during his term of service. Despite his seventy years of age he enjoys good health and has the advantage over many of fewer years. Thb Telegrapher and its readers extend to him their felicitations and good wishes for many, many contented years during his retirement N. B. CURRY, Cert. 22, Division 17. Digitized by VjOOQle

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FRATERNAL NOTICE All i tarns for this department must be in the hands of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer on or before the 25th day of the month in order to insurp their insertion in the following issue. Springfield, Mass., Div. No. 38. Boston A Albany Railroad- Annual meeting held on the evening of February 21st with the usual number pres- ent. Auditing committee's report showed the division to be in excellent shape, $977.40 on deposit in bank and enough collected at meeting to run this sum well over the thou- sand mark with all bills paid. * The membership for the year increased although we lost three by death and a few who would not discontinue handling W. U. business during the trouble between that company and its employes. Sickness is making it very hard to get off for a day even. The bill introduced in the Massachusetts Legislature providing for one day’s rest in seven had a hearing February 16 th, but owing to the inability to obtain relief none of us were present. The same officers were re-elected for en- suing term, making it the seventh consecu- tive year for Bro. Frank ^argent as chief telegrapher, a good, hard working, conscien- tious brother. The brothers who do not at- tend meetings should make an effort to do so. Be sure to come to the next one and find out what is going on that vitally affects your welfare. Don’t wait to get it second hand with possibly &' wrong* conception of what was done or what is contemplated. The general committee meets the man- agement the 24th to complete the incorpora- tion of Supplement No. 13 and a few other changes in the schedule. . "Jakie,” Cert. 404. New York, N. Y.f Div. No. 44. Long Island Railroad — The reason, our dollar is only worth 46 cents is because the profiteers who have po fear of the law are storing the necessities of life in order to make us pay more for them later on. More and better organization is what we need. Attend the meetings and discuss meas- ures to combat existing conditions so when we get a raise of salary we can prevent them from raising foodstuffs, etc., to meet every advance our employers grant us. Read the labor papers and learn the truth in regard to these matters. You won't find it in the daily journals that are published solely in the interest of these profiteers. New members : Sisters Boyd, Seward, Rathjen, Segur, Greenbaum, Geltlinger, Kelly, Wiright, Gumbrecht, Heley and Betti and Bros. Shaffner, Palmer, My&tt and Smith. Bro. Buckley, who bid in Hamxnell* freight clerk, was succeeded at Peconie by J. B. Jarrett, a new man from Georgia. I will take care of him. Some of you get after those nons at Greenport. Also the three men at "WC" cabin. There are also a few who have not yet taken out their 1920 cards. If you do not know who they are ask me. Bro. Murray, operator Southold, was noti- fied that Eastport agency had been assigned to him but has not yet been transferred thereto. Sister Merideth is still on the sick list, not having recovered from last spring's attack of the “flu." Join the Sick Benefit Association and pro- tect your family in case of sickness. The Ladies' Auxiliary Euchre, in charge of Sisters Filby, Huds6n and Hilley, was held at Sister Madden's home. Another card party is being planned, place and details an- nounced later. The employes of the Long Island Railroad minstrel show and dance for the benefit of the Mary Immaculate Hospital. Jamaica, N. Y., will be held at the Academy of Music; Brooklyn, N. Y., April l6th, as noted in the circular of Superintendent Baker, the treas- urer. The various, organizations and ladies' auxiliaries are helping to make the affair a success. Members wishing to help or desir- ing to attend can secure tickets, price $1.00 each, from the Ladies' Auxiliary or from Bros. Thuma, Newell, Adams or Barton, either by mail or personal application. P. T. Mattel*. Pittsburgh, Pa., Div. No. 52. Pittsburgh A Lake Brie Railroad — At our regular meeting February Tth Bros. S. C. Phillips and R. W. Bees were re-elected chief telegrapher and secretary and treasurer, respectively, and G. W. Shnobel, L. B. Dunlap and M. D. Ullery were elected first and second vice-chief and trustees re- spectively. Our meetings for the rest of this term will be held on April 8rd and 17th, May 1st and 16th and June 12th and 26th. Post thla up some place where you will see It and be sure Digitized by Google

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The Hail road Telegrapher. 351 and attend. That Is the place to come and register your kicks if you have any, and not with the nous over the wire. Quite a number have been on the sick list Bro. D&gue, .several days, relieved by Bro. Kennedy; Bros. Holes and Dem&rest, latter relieved by Bro. Phillips ; Bro. Shaffner, sev- eral nights, relieved by Bro. Camp; Bro. Vance, relieved by Bros. Law and Piersol doubling, and Bros. Griffiths and Hall dou- bled while Bro. Norris was off; Bro. Salyer relieved Bro. Speigel, “DE” worked short- handed while Bro. Walters was off, and Bro. Parr was also off several days owing to sick- ness in his family. Bro. Hawthorne is spending the winter in Florida Understand i^‘ is now Bro. Prior again. Drv. Cor. Washington, D. C., Div. No. 60. Everyone paid up-to-date excepting Lee of the train clerks. We have a 100 per cent membership. Bro. Kunkle is relieving Manager Bailey for two months. Some of the old-timers turned out to the last meeting, which was well attended. Im- portant matters were discussed. Practically the same brothers were re-elected officers. Bro. Coe has been working extra at “RG.” Bro. Pitcher now !has a nice new copper wire to work on. Bro. Mason, who recently “fliwered” to Atlantic City, says nothing attractive there any more. Bra Beckley recently passed the 35th milestone and was presented with about 250 messages to send on his arrival at 4 p. m. Bro. Loats may soon say “Good bye” to the "dots and dashes,” as he is taking a course in cartooning. He has the right “dope" in some of his drawings. Bros. Hoppe and Walker will finish their courses as first-class accountants next month. Bro. Kinchelloe, the only man who ever left "PO" wire clear at 4 p. m.. recently gave us his secret Sister Snyder has won the hearts of the second trick bunch as she can make better coffee than any one of them. Bro. Vandygrlft declares he will not teach another messenger how to run “DC.” Send in your notes early, brothers, in brdef to get them off not later than the 21st of each month. Cert. 80. Chicago, III., Div. No. 91. O. <* w. /. B. B.— First Vice-President Brown attended obr meeting on Feb. 11th at the Warren hotel, 8M and Cottage Grove avenue, when Bro. C. H. Shafer was elected general chairman to succeed Bro. Geo. S. Nafe, who was given a vote of thanks for the good work he had dooe while filling that position. Bros. H. O. Zimmerman of 47th street, Charles McCarthy of 21st street and Geo. Houseinger of South Deering were elected members of the general committee and we are congratulating ourselves on the selection of these members for those Important posi- tions. '< *\\ General Chairman Shafer, while attending the meeting of all the general chairmen in Washington, D. C.. February 28rd, to con- sider President Wilson’s reply to wage de- mands, was relieved as leverman at 47th street by Bro. L. B. Grotts. The brothers at Dalton draw bridge and Michigan avenue towers each received back time amounting to over $300.00. Sister McCluskey, 75th street, sick for a week, was relieved by Bro. O’Connor, extra blockman. Bro. Robert Murry, agent and operator Oakdale, has gone to Oak Forest for his health. Brothers, help us get in the few nons and make our division solid. L. B. Grotts. K. J. dc B. By.— Bro. J. H. Williams, West Chicago, who relieved Bro. Stratton at Aurora when he went to the hospital witl\ typhoid fever, after a few days was taken down with the “flu,” and Bros. Dunn and Monroe doubled several days until relief could be found. Bro. Bal- binott is relieving Bro. A. E. Wldup, who also has the “flu.” Bros. Root and Risenger are back at work after two weeks’ illness, former was relieved by Bro. Ullrich, latter by Operator Todd, who also relieved Sister Brown a few days. Bra Cheadle has resigned to engage in other work, relieved by Operator Dodge. Let me know how he stands. Ivanhoe and Van Horn towers and Aurora are now 100 per cent. There are several nons on the line yet at Nonnantown, Hobart and Frankfort. Brothers, give them no rest un- til they join. Bro. Purcell, keep after Hin- thorne and Dodge and I will look after Todd. Very few of you E. J. and E. boys at- tended the meeting of this division February 7th. Come out a little stronger, brothers. Send me any notes of Interest you can. Let's make the “J” 100 per cent and keep it that way. E. P. Fugate, Cert. 247, 203 Ridgewood Ave., Joliet, 111. Virginia, Minn., Div. No. 127. Duluth j Missabe & Northern By.— A great many of the agents have been cut to eight hours and an assistant agent put on to fill in. Just what w^e want, an eight- hour day, and it is easy to tell by the tone of conversation that all are well pleased with working eight hours and Sundays off. Hu- manity wants a day’s rest occasionally, and when Sunday comes and one can enjoy the day out with his family it surely makes life worth w'hile. Remember, the O. R. T. de- Digitized by Googk

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352 The Railroad Tblkoraphkr. serves the whole credit of making our work- ing conditions 100 per cent better, and we must support It with 100 per cent good, strong backbone. Bro. J. A. Church, former Cert 53 on this division, now with the Canadian National Railways In Port Arthur yard office, was a recent Duluth caller. Came to Duluth re- cently, was married and returned to Port Arthur with his bride, when he was taken down with chicken pox for two weeks. We are all glad to learn of “Slim’s” recovery. He has our best wishes for suocess and we hope he will soon return to the states. Bro. C. I. Campbell, wife and son William have returned from several weeks’ visit at his mother's home in Warsaw, Indiana. Bros. Granley and gauleen, Proctor side wire, were Burnett meeting visitors Feb. 8th. Bro. G. A. Rutter has returned from the West with his wife, very much improved. Pleasing news to all of us. Chief telegrapher Clark has returned to Iron Junction second from Florida. His wife, who was taken seriously ill with influenza during his absence, is much improved. Bro. Magill's wife, Bro. Lindrud and family and several other brothers and their families have also been sick with thd “flu.” Bro. E. W. Jordan was relieved several weeks by Bro. Lindrud. Bro. Doc. Baker is now on second Am- brldge and Bro. Doc. Allie on third, newly created position, Ambridge formerly being a non-telegraph interlocker. . “Birds of a feather flock together.” Brothers along the line send me some notes. Bro. Ross has his part of the North End down to a science. Now if Bro. Cor- mack or someone from Hibbing district will furnish me with a few items I can cover most of the system. I would be pleased to receive some notes from the towermen. This will all help to make our write-up a newsy one. The year 1919 closed with only one delin- quent member, who left the business. Let’s close 1920 with a 100 per cent showing as we have it now. We cannot afTord to lose one member. “No card , no favors ” still in force. Al- though there is only one station that we can apply this to, it is well to uphold the old slogan. L. J. Broussbau, Cert. 52. Bros. Wade and Little had prepared a pile of sandwiches, cakes, coffee, etc., almost two feet high to which we did ample justice, the smoker topping off with cigars and cigar- ettes. At 11 :30 we all made a dive for the depot and street cars. Remember that the grand division mail- ing list was revised February 29th and only those whose division dues and Insurance as- sessments were fully paid up at that time are in good standing. I have filled the position as your general secretary-treasurer for twenty years, and In all that time my office has never closed and taken holidays as you take them. However, I would like to take a few days’ breathing spell this fall. If all who have not paid their dues and insurance assessments up to December 81, 1920, would do so between now and July 81st It would be greatly ap- preciated. All Grand Trunk members in the United States please note that we have opened a bank account in Port Huron, Mich., and they should remit division dues, first month’s in- crease, or special assessments by express, postal money order or bank draft, payable to my order at Port Huron Mich., mailing same direct to me at 807 Waterloo St, Lon- don, Ontario, as heretofore. Grand Trunk Pacific members please note that their general committee when in ses- sion at Winnipeg in January, divided the territory into five districts : No. 1, Winni- peg to Watrous and Canora branch, Bro. H. M. Triplett, Melville, Sask., local chair- man ; No. 2, including all branch lines south of Melville, Sask., Bro. S. J. Harrington, Regina Sask., local chairman ; No. 3, Watrous, including Edmonton and branch lines, Bro. J. L. Dpdds Viking, Alberta, local chairman ; No. 4 includes Edmonton to Prince George and branches, Bro. J. W. Mc- Culla, Stony Plain. Alberta, local chairman; No. 5 including Prince George to Prince Rupert and branches, Bro. T. H. Walsh, Ter- race, B. C., local chairman, who has re- signed as general chairman, succeeded by Bro. H. M. Triplett Melville, Sask. We hope all concerned will do everything In their power to make the work of your officers as light as possible. D. L. Shaw, G. S. & T. Grand Trunk Ry., Div. 1. Twenty-one members met at the London meeting, January 16th. although it was one of the fiercest nights of the winter. Local Chairman Wade occupied the chair. Deputy Third Vice-President Mein gave us a synopsis of what had been accomplished for the craft through united effort and what the organization purposed to try to ac- complish In the near future. A short time was then spent In discussing grievances. G. T. P.f Fourth t Fifth and Sixth Districts and Branches — A meeting was held at the Royal George Hotel, Edmonton, Sunday. January 4th, called to order by Local Chairman Dodds at 2 p. m., Bro. Harry Frank acting as sec- retary. Among those present was Local Chairman Triplett frdm Melville. The divi- sion has been divided Into five districts, rep- resented by as many local chairmen. Thi* district, which includes all territory under Digitized by Googk

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Thb Railroad Telegrapher. 353 the supervision of Mr. Walton, will be known as District No. 8. General discussion of proposed changes in the schedule principally occupied the atten- tion of the meeting. After the passing of a few resolutions the meeting adjourned to attend a special dinner for the members served by the management of the hotel. * Bro. Simmons, Tofield, and Bro. Roy White have been on sick leave, confined to their homes. Bro. £immons, who had quite a tough time, desires to thank the boys for the timely financial assistance they rendered him. Assistant « Superintendent Brown also desires to thank the telegraphers ifi his ter- ritory for the beautiful wreath sent to Mrs. Brown’s funeral. This kindness was greatly appreciated by her parents. Bro. Fraser of Holden was relieved while on leave by Bro. Wolfe. 1 Dispatcher Roy Moore is now sporting a blue card. We welcome him to our ranks. •’Shoot” me a few notes, boys, so that I can keep this column going. Cert. 2873. “Big Four” R. ft., Dlv. 3. Cincinnati- Sandusky Division— The long-looked-for schedule has arrived. On sick list recently: Bros. R. E. Nue, Carey; Joe Callahan, *‘QS,” and Mr. Franks, Grants. All the extras are busy arid there is considerable doubling on account of the influenza and other diseases. Bro. *'Doc” Neese, "QS,” relieved by pro. C. C. Jenkins, owing to the death of his grandmother at Springfield, Ohio; and the wife of Bro. Fred Ulen, second Grants, was called home on account of the sickness of .her father. Bro. Watkins, first ”BR,” was off recently, owing to sickness in his family. "A Palm iWch Special” is being run each Wednesday from Detroit, Mich., to Miami, Fla. We desire to know the whereabouts of Bro. M. B. Shaffer, who formerly worked on this division. Ckrt. 15. Cincinnati Northern Division — • * Brothers, it is time we get acquainted and show a human interest in one another. We are going to have a write-up each month in The Telegrapher hereafter, and I earnestly solicit your support. Find' out who the non is next to you and we will put him on the roll of honor. ”Wao“ ”Sa" Cert 734. Indianapolis Division — On sick list: Bro. Blue and Bro. Ritter, Farmland, latter with la grippe, relieved by Stater Blue; Bro. Kautyman, first and Bra SeUers, second Hart, latter relieved by Bro. Olvey and Williams doubling several days, until Operator Apple came to their relief; Bro. Walters, second Ansonia, and Bro. Armstrong, yard master So. Anderson, latter with ”flu Bro. Hatcher, first Connor, sev- eral days, Operator Hindle relieving. It Is now Bro. B. A. Olney, third Hart. Mrs. Moots opened third Sidney, Ohio. Send me some notes for the write-up. Gregg, Cert 924. C., 8t. P., M. & O. Ry., Div. 4. Eastern Division — Bro. George H. Girling, second trick Blast St Paul, died at the City Hospltaf, St Paul, on February 7 th, from an attack of influ- enza, followed by pneumonia. In the death of Bro. Girling Division No. 4 loses one of its oldest and most active members. He became a member at the inception of the organization on this railroad eighteen years ago and has held a card continuously ever since, never being delinquent, even for a day, in his dues. He worked consistently day and night for the upbuilding of the O. R. T. and 'his loss will be keenly felt not only by our membership but by the officers of the railroad company, who held him in the highest esteem. It was the privilege of the writer U> work in the same office with Bro. Girling for more than twelve years, and I want to pay a tribute to him as a high- clasa gentleman, a staunch union man and a good pal. The funeral was private on ac- count of the nature of his illness, but all arrangements were taken care of by the officers of Division No. 4. Beautiful $oral wreaths were furnished by the employes at East St Paul and by Division No. 4. A widow and four children survive Bro. Girling, and they have the sincere sympathy of all his fellow workers in their bereave- ment W. J. Liddanb, General Chairman. Eastern Division Notes — Bro. Mills, coming back from the service, displaced Bro. Heepner at Neillsville, wlio bid in Baldwin third, and later relieved Bro. Kvool, agent Humbird, while sick with the "flu,” and then relieved Bro. Jay, agent Warren, while he took his daughter to Madi- son for an operation. Bro. Kuhn, agent Fall Creek, taking a trip to the Coast, relieved by Bro. Moe. Bro. Dimo*ck, on a trip to Idaho, looking after his fruit orchard. Bro. Engebretson, third Hudson, while in St. Paul hospital, having his tonsils re- moved, relieved by Bro. Judd from Stillwater Jet Bro. Crochran, agent Beldenville, was off several weeks on account of sickness, re- lieved by Bro. Haberman, and Bro. Reed Is back on first East St Paul after two-weeks* siege with the "flu.” I wish to thank Bros. Hurst, Myron, and Nelson for the news sent me. Keep up the good work and we will have a write-up each month, * Cert. 6. Digitized by ^.ooQie

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354 The Railroad Telegrapher. General Telegraph Office, St . Paul— Ail the boys grot a card from Bra Tom Bag an, sojourning In California. Bro. W. A* Prlbil now has the eighth po- sition here. Local Chairman Bone, while helping to audit the G. S. & T.'s books, was relieved by Bra Head, and he by Bro. C. H. Mitchell, an old time train dispatcher from the G. B. A W. at Grand Rapids, Wis., now on leave of absence. Bro. Girling, who died February 7 th, % worked in this office about two years some ten or twelve years ago. The sympathy of the entire force Is extended to his family. Miss Johnson relieving here again. We hope to soon gall her t(Sister,t Johnson. Many of our lady telegraphers who have taken examination here will remember our congenial and efficient messenger, Miss Louise Harwood, and will be pleased to know she has been promoted to stenographer in the valuation department. ”N,” Cert 250. Western Division — Bro. A. P. Wagner, Belle Plaine, relieved by Sister Kneefe, and Bro. Josephson, third Kasota, by Bro. Mynard a few days recently, on account of Illness. Bro. Mann has resumed at Bingham Lake after spending several days at home, nursing the “flu,” and Sister Molner is back at Ot- tawa after a few days* visit at her home in Eau Claire. Bro. McCarthy was relieved at Savage several days by Miss Barnort. The auditing committee, composed of Bros. Mitchell, Coyle and Bone, examined the general secretary and treasurer’s books, February 9th and 10th, and found every- thing “OK.” The report Is now in the mail for your inspection. I wish each of you would write H. Bro- mander, Savage ; J. H. Nelson, Adrian ; Al- len Burdick, Mitchell ; Geo. Kleeman, Avoca, and A. G. Jansma, Beaver Creek, and try to secure their applications for membership, accompanied by the proper amount to pay for an up-to-date card. Bro. Sinn, Blue Earth, while moving into his new home, was relieved by Sister Prew. Bro. Mike Hayes, Sioux City Shops, has returned from his trip to Los Angeles, re- lieved by Sister Blanchard. Bro. Tenney and wife attended the fun- eral of Mrs. Tenney’s father, January 24th, in Minneapolis. The back pay checks, held up In the pay- master’s office for some time, were released February 20th and are now in the hands of their satisfied owners. Bro. Johnson from Merriam filled in on second St lames side wire a f^w days. Ckrt. No. 2. Northern Division— The back pay covering Interpretation No. 8 to Supplement No. 13 ha* been received At a meeting of the general committee in St Paul, February 10th, It was decided- to spread the increase evenly, provided for through this interpretation, among all the positions over the entire road. Although this means a reduction to some of us benefited through this interpretation, it Increases those not previously benefited and wipes out the inequalities which existed before this was done. One * of the representatives on the committee, who voted to put thiB into effect, will have hie hourly rate reduced about four cents. However, pending nego- tiations should more than raise those who were thus reduced. The committee, while in St Paul, audited the books of the general secretary and treasurer and acted on other business pertaining to our future work. Our general chairman was again called to Washington, February 23rd, for the fifth time, to attend a hearing before the railroad executives and organizations over the wage controversy. During the past year he made three trips to St. Louis, two to New York, several to Chicago and to numerous other points, to handle the business of Division No. 4, Bro. Clark, agent Trego, taking in the sights at the Twin Cities a few days, also doubled during the “flu” epidemic. Bro. Cook, second South Range, was re- lieved a few days by Sister Rumrich while visiting his parents at Valley Jet. Bros. H. H. Jenkins and A. W. Jann wen* recent Itasca visitors. Winter, Birch wood and Draper opened temporarily again on account of putting th« log trains on the branch. Bro. Larson, Chippewa Falls, off several days on account being mixed up in the wreck between trains No. 97 and No. 235 at that point on February 7th, has been reinstated. Your local chairman was off & few days on this case. There was never a time in the history of this organization when it was more Im- portant to keep up to date. Your commit- tee is powerless to legislate for a delinquent Any who are in that class should pay up once for their own and their families’ pro- tection. I am indebted to Bros. Jenkins, Clirh. Bauer and Swanson for the news items this month. Keep the good work up. "X," 380. Union Paoific R. H., Dlv. 6. Kansas Division- Relieved on account of sickness : 3™* Crose, agent Wilson, by Bro. Mohler; Bro Nickel, Lucas, by Relief Agent Wilson, while he took a trip to the springs; Bra Actors, Ells worth, a few days by Bra Petsiso®! Digitized by Google

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f The Railroad Telegrapher. 353 Bro. Dreiling, second Russell, called home and office closed one night, and Bro. Engle. Linwood, down with influenza, relieved by Bro. Harrington. , Bro. Horn, dispatching, relieved on second Sallna by Bro. Wilson, who with Bro. D. Williams was later taken sick, latter being very low. Bro. H. J. Clevenger called to Colorado recently, owing to the death of his father, and Bro. J. W. Jose, Marysville, was called home to Bland, Mo., on account of the death of his ^mother. Bro. Chas. Golden, Bonner Springs, was off several days, attending the funeral of his sister at Phillipsburg. The wife of Bro. C. E. Graff, at Havens- viile, died recently. We all extend our sym- pathy to the bereaved. The boys on Plalnville and McPherson Branch purchased a wreath for Messenger Bledsoe, who died February 9th. Chas. M. Gamer has returned to Hollis . from military service. Bro. Caswell, agent Kanopolis, spent- a few days in Denver, relieved by Bro. Weaver, now with the Rock Island. Bro. E. C. Poole, who entered the army and did not return to this division, sent money for his 1920 annual from Bienville, La. He Is not railroading now. Bro. C. R. Fish has returned to Schroyer from his trip to California. Bro. E. B. Late, Arrington, is also back after 30 days’ vacation. Bro. R. W. Miller, Stockdale, has traded positions with Bro. C. A. Paul, second Deer Trail, Colo., and Bro. W. T. Bailey has transferred to the Colorado Division. New members : A. E. McElvaine, St Marys ; A. M. Johnson, Garrison ; C. W. Bur- ton, Broughton ; A. Spohr, Newman ; Mrs. J. B. Jon^s, Lindsey ; H. C. May, Hollis ; C. A. Brown, New Cambria, and W. F. Gelst VerdL I wish to thank the boys who sent in notes for the write-up. Please come again. Cxrt. 833. Central Division — Get that "non” next door ; there are still a few on this division. If you don’t know where they are located, ask your L. C. and give them no rest until they sign up. It is now Bros. L. B. Busse and H. W. Hatfield, Hanover, Kan. Bro. J. W. Jose relieved Bro. Henderson, agent Oneida, while off with the “flu,” and Bro. English Is relieving Bro. Kraemer at •*MS” 60 days while he tries out car dis- tributor job. Both these reliefs are from the Kansas Division. Bra Rooney, agent Hansen, was off 30 days, owing to the illness of his wife. Bro. Marsh relieved Bro. Mooney, third Seneca, two weeks. Leavenworth, Mittonvale and Davenport consolidated when the Government took over the railroads, reopened March 1st Cbrt. €88. Nebraska Division — Bro. Getsford, at Overton agency past four months, relieved by regular agent re- turning, relieved Bro. Coleman at Kearney, off sick. Bro. Holbrook, who relieved Bro. Well- man at Callaway for three days, *also re- lieved Bro. Cerney, "GD” Grand Island, three days while visiting his folks at St Paul ; Bro. Hansen, agent Elm Creek, a few days, and Bro. Brackel at Oconto several days. The latter brother and Bro, Holbrook are both claiming Oconto agency. Several brothers, including service men, have made arrangements with the company whereby they will be permitted to take up homesteads without losing their rights. Bros. Cook, Byrne, Hannum, and Plank attended the recent cause and prevention meeting kt Grand Island. Get in the few none, boys, and cut down the expense of carrying them. Crrt. 630 Colorado Division — Bro. J. H. Dunlap, Carr, Colo., was called to Alabama recently on account of the death of his father. He has our deepest sympathy. Bros. Meyers, Orchard ; Phelps, Lucerne ; . FrlttB, Wakeeney ; Lay and McCauly, Hugo, and Kane and Talcott, Lasalle, visited Den- ver, and Bro. Whitney, agent Iliff, Colorado Springs recently. Bro. Thompson, Frederick, relieved by Bro. Rickerts while attending the C. & P. meeting at Denver. Latter also relieved Bro. Everley, agent Fort Morgan, and Bro. Niese- vanger, Winona, a few days. Bro. Martin, agent Wild Horse, passed the operator's ex- amination in Denver recently. Bro. WTright visiting relatives In Missouri and Bro. Stedman, “UD” Denver, in Louisi- ana; Bro. Shanafelt, 90 days in California; Bro. Larson, third Oakley, in Texas. Bro. Bushirk, Sedgurck, relieved several days by Bro. Matthews, and Bro. Holland, Sterling, by Bro. Copley. First at Cheyenne Wells pulled off.; Bro. Parham to second there, vice Bro. Peterson to third. Eaton second also discontinued, Bro. Merriweather to second Pierce, vice Bro. Copley to extra list. Curt. 962. Digitized by Google

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\ • 356 The Railroad Telegrapher. Western Division — Bro. Alfred D. Bell, Ogden, died January 29th, with Influenza. The members of this division extend their deepest sympathy to the family. Also to Bro. Keyes, agent Echo, in the loss of his son. Off, due to illness : Bros. Davis and Allo- way, Echo; Bros, Dunn and Carey and wife. Cartel, influenza; Bros. Richards and Thorn- hill,. Ogden, with the "flu;" Bro. Hiestand, third Rawlins, father seriously sick at Tul- sa, Okla. ; Bros. Jackson and Johnson, Point of Rocks ; Bro. Peckinpaugh, Ogden, wife's mother seriously ill, pnefumonia. Bridge r three tricks closed. Evanston re- duced one man/ Bro. Pennington, Sou. Pac., visited friends In Evanston recently, where he formerly worked. Sister Coi*a Brown, second telephone oper- ator Rawlins, visited in El Dorado, Kan., recently. Bro. Collins, Rawlins, traded seniority and Jobs with Brh. Homer Ebers, third Walcott, on Sixth District It is now Bro. W. E. Dunn, third Riner. Thanks to Bro. Hudson, Rawlins, for the notes he contributed to this write-up. Cert. 548. Canadian Pacific Ry., Div. 7. Moose Jaw Division— A very enthusiastic meeting of some 21 members was held In Shaunavon on Febru- ary 8rd, and quite a number from Assini- boia to Govanlock were on hand. Abou^ five of the boys were unable to get away. The brothers apparently do not know what they are missing by not attending these meetings. We have a real, live local chairman, who gave us an interesting and detailed account of proceedings at Winnipeg, where he met ten days with the other local chairmen last month to discuss schedule negotiations and other important matters. i We get a great deal of good out of these meetings as regards O. R. T. affairs and in connection with our work as agents and op- erators. A brother may be ever so clever in his work but can still get pointers, and are really educational for the brothers out on the line. The proposed new schedule as whole proved very satisfactory. It was taken up, the different articles discussed at length and some alterations suggested. Bro. Merkley explained the doubtful clauses in the overtime rules thoroughly. The meeting lasted until 24.16. It was one of the best ever held in Shaunavon. Af- ter adjournment the brothers repaired to the Savoy Cafe, where a very nice lunch was served. Bra Sam Richards was right on hand from the time the boys arrived at Shaunavon until they left, dispensing hospitality and footing all the bills. The next meeting in Shaunavon will likely be held in June, , and all the brothers are re- quested to attend. We wish to thank Chief Dispatcher Bro. Trump for letting the brothers off to attend , these meetings. The wife of Bro. J. E. Begin, Swift Cur- rent, died in Providence Hospital, Moote Jaw, recently, after several weeks’ illness from blood poisoning. The remains were taken to Levis, Quebec, for interment. Bre. G. T. King, Swift Current, died *e few days ago following an operation, being un- able to withstand the shock. Word has Just reached us of the death of Bro. T. M. Miller's mother at 8t Thoraaa February 15 th. We tender our heartfelt sympathy to Bro. Begin, Mrs King and Bro. Miller in their great bereavement Bro. Begin, Cert. 2048, desires to thank the brothers for their generous offering of flowers and kind words of sympathy in the sad bereavement 'he experienced ifl the loss, of his wife. The wife of Bro. G. J. Cheney of Chaplin, recently operated on in General Hospital, Moose Jaw, for appendicitis, has so nearly recovered as to allow the brother to take her home. Bro. R. E. Coons, dispatcher Mqose Jaw. has taken third Saskatoon. Bro. Flett, returning from a visit home In Lindsay, went to Dutlook, days. Congratulations to Bro. Thompson, agent Secretan, on his recent marriage. We will endeavor to give you a write-up every month. Kindly forward us your news. Cert. 2882, Cert. 2427. Saskatoon Division— A meeting called by Local Chairman Mc- Ormond was held in Libor Temple, Saska- toon, on February 8th. Others present : Hutchison, Baldwin, Davidson, Winters, Cordingley, McLearn, Collins, , Houston. Campbell, Cumbers, Dickson, Ross, Douglas, Meisner, Francis, Goodwin, Weson (of Im- perial) and Kaumeyer; also Chief Dispatch- er Harshaw, who gave us a most instructive talk on handling train orders. Bro. McOrmond gave a summary of the local chairmen’s meeting in Winnipeg on January 5th-13th, and the splendid recep- tion and banquet tendered them by Portage Division and C. P. R. Social Club. Portage. Division — There were seventeen members present at our meeting In Winnipeg, December 12th, in- cluding General Chairman Gilbert and Bra Talt, representative of the linemen from Portage. Local Chairman Fraser presided and Bro. A. S. McGechnle acted as secre- Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 357 tary. vice Bro. J. Walker, unavoidably ab- sent The general committee held its biennial meeting in Winnipeg from January 5th to January 13th, inclusive, and various changes In our schedule were considered and adopted. The Canadian Government in 1918 asked us to defer schedule negotiations until a com- merce board should be appointed to lower the high cost of living, which it has failed to dot and' a schedule 'committee was appointed at the meeting to wait upon the company officials. Deputy Third Vice-President Mein had to devote part of his time to the general com- mittees of the Canadian National and Grand Trunk Pacific Railways, also in session in Winnipeg, but managed to give our mem- bers a great deal of practical advice and assistance. On Friday night, January 9th, this divi- sion gave a banquet and smoker in the re- ception room of the Royal Alexandra Hotel, in honor of the general committee, it being the first time we had a chance to meet all the members of this governing body to- gether, and 75 brothers sat down to well- arranged tables laden with good things. Bra W. G. Fraser, toastmaster, presided at the head table, seating fifteen, the guests thereat, besides the officers of System Divi- sion No. 7 and the assistant general chair- men, being: General Counsel Campbell, Dep- uty Third Vice-President Mein, General Chairman Phillips and General Secretary and Treasurer Palmer, Division No. 43, and Chief Dispatcher Horn, C. P. R., Winnipeg. Seven small tables of eight members each were placed advantageously' around the room, the hosts being, respectively: Fonger, Por- tage ; McEwlng, Treheme ; Freeland, Car- berry; Walsh, Winnipeg; Farwell, Winni- peg; Wocks, Emersoft, and F. Mein, Car- berry, prominent members of this division. The "smoker*' concluding the banquet in- cluded short speeches and addresses, follow- ing the toast to The King, which was re- sponded to by all rising and singing "God Save the King." 1 Throughout the evening many amuBing stories were told and commentaries made on the by-gone days of the Order, to illustrate its growth and the* good-fellowship now pre- vailing both within our ranks and with the company we work for. The speech-making over at 24.45, the members and guests in- formally met, when many old acquaintances were renewed and new ones formed, which alone testified to the success of the gather- ing. Those in charge of arrangements were*. A & McKechnle, chairman social commit- tee, and Bros. T. J. Walsh and M. E. Far- well, Winnipeg. A great deal of the success of the affair Is due to our worthy chief dispatcher, H L. Horn, who relieved every man he possibly could, and also managed to get there him- self. The committee and members sure ap- preciated this. The banquet proved to be a wonderful means of getting the Portage Division mem- bers out. Bro. McE wing’s idea of a toastmaster was one that got the toast, and he managed to get away with a large slice. Bro. Wilton (too bashful to make a speech), done well when he got up so the boys could see him. Bro. Hewitt’s college story went fine, but he sure laid it on the members who don't attend the meetings. Bro. Fraser had another one to tell and will sprihg it at the next meeting, so be sure and get in to hear it. The talk for the good of the Order by Bro. Campbell was sound and good advice. Bros. Gilbert and Chapman gave us a clear idea of what the- general committee had to put up with and the work it had to do. Someone said Bro. Wocks of Emerson* was collecting a head tax. 'Spose he is used to that at Emerson. Bro. G. M. Sherlock did not get an op- portunity to speak. He waa busy on a time schedule with his knife and fork. The social committee is planning further pleasant surprises for the boys throughout the year. Cert. 418. Famham Division — Sherbrooke Yard office not opened this year, all business being done at Sherbrooke 3tation. Bro. Vallee looking after tickets, Bros. Coombs, Wilson and Bourdon on first, second and third. Farnham Yard office opened December 1st by Bros. Auclair, Rogers and D. A. Morri- son. Bro. R. J. Gough, dispatcher, appointed night chief, relieved on second trick North End by Bro. F. A. Poullot, relieved on third Farnham Station by Bro. A. J. Perrault. Bro. D. A. Morrison, Scotstown, returned from overseas last summer to third Farn- ham Yard, appointed relieving dispatcher January 3rd while Local Chairman Levesque at Winnipeg convention, January 3-16. Bro. Morrison has been awarded the mili- tary medal for meritorious action overseas. Congratulations. He relieved Train Dis- patcher Bro. Gosselln while off with lagrippe. All of the brothers serving overseas are now back except Bro. H. Labonte. Bro. R. D. Farley resumed agency Scotstown ; Bro. K. M. Taylor, second Lennoxvllle agency, and Bro. O. Guerton to Rock Forest second. Megantic Station destroyed by fire latter part of January, operators stationed In Cus- toms building until spring. Digitized by Googk

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358 The Railroad Telegrapher.. Bros. Dauphin, Lafreniere. Trottier and J. Perrault from Laurentlan Division are with us this winter. Bros. B. Beaumier, second Farnham Sta- tion, and C. H. Bockus, agent Delson, have resumed duty after illness. Bro. Pettes, agent West Brome, and Bro. Corblere, third Highwater, are ofT sick, also Bro. Gariepy, agent Versailles, later relieved by Bro. J. Perrault * A circular letter has been sent all mem- bers on this division giving outline of business done and they will be kept posted on doings. Seniority lists will be mailed all concerned as soon as they come from the printers. We are grateful to Bro. Rawlins for open- ing an account with the Royal Bank of Mon- treal for payment of our M. B. D. dues. With present high rate of exchange this means a considerable saving to the Cana- dian membership and is highly appreciated. It should not be necessary to write mem- bers to pay their dues. They need the pro- tection and should take enough interest in their own welfare as to make this work of tracing unnecessary. F. A. P., Cert. 3594. New York Central R. R.f Dlv. 8. Buffalo Division — Our joint meeting in BufTalo, Feb. 18th, at. Hotel Brozel, had a very poor attendance. All the members, with a very few exceptions, could afford to attend at least one meeting a month. General Chairman Morey at- tended both morning and evening meetings, gave us a very nice talk and explained many matters. A number are off with the "flu” and grippe. The men in several towers have had to double up, as all extra men are working. Bro. F. W. Smith, SS-49, has consented to act as correspondent and we hope from now on that we will have a regular write-up each month. Kindly give him your assistance. J. T. Farrell, Local Chairman. Syracuse Division — There were only nine members present at the morning meeting in Rochester, February 6th. Local Chairman Zimmerman, Rochester Division, gave a very interesting talk in re- gard to the work on his division, especially complimenting the sisters. Local Chairman Conlin, Buffalo Division, L. V. R. R., spoke on the use of the tele- phones by the conductors on that road, and read some very interesting letters from Bros. Crane and Leh. The evening meeting wag a little better attended. Bro. Mansell wag with ug, but Bro. Morey, although he started from New York on train 88, was unable to reach Rochester, all trains being four to twenty- four hours late. We hold our next meeting in Y. W. C. A Hall, North Clinton and Franklin, entrant* on Franklin street, when we expect to have our new seven-piece O. R. T. Orchestra play for us. Everyone who can possibly do so. come, and if anyone has the blues we will do our best to drive them away. Bro. F. Whitmire, fl. S. 20, off on account of death In the family, Bros. Tuck and Potter doubling. Sisters V. N., Wayneport, and R. B Til- ton, Pittsford, off on account of the death of their grandmother at Canandaigua, N. Y.. Sister M. L. Ott and Geo. Chase, respec- tively, relieving. Bro. Goerke, leverman S. S. 25 A, was relieved by Bro. Hounsell three weeks, owing to his fleet giving out. Bro. Mike Flaherty’s hands slipped from the lever when lining up the crossover at S. S. 47, and he struck the back of his head on the radiator. Brothers, give us a little help to line up the few nons left. Hovky & Tilton, Div. Cor. Hudson Division— Meeting, February 17 th, very well attend- ed, especially by the boys from the north end. Would like to have more from the south end and around Poughkeepsie attend meetings. ' so they will know what is going on. Bro. J. J. Cannon, S. S. 66, recently re- ceived a very nice letter from Supt. Melius for his prompt action in notifying the proper official of a broken journal on special milk east, stopped by Bro. F. P. Frallegh, S. S. 60. and a serious accident probably averted. Brothers, help to line up the few nons in your vicinity and make this division solid. Stick to our old slogan, “No card , no favors Relieved, owing to sickness : Bro. F. Smith, S. S. 58, by Bro. Carlson; Bro. Os- trander, S. S. 71, by Inspector Crowley; Bro. Rector, S. S. 74, by Bro. Tlnney; Bro J. Colwell, S. S. 90, by Extra Fallen; Bra Alger, S. S. 82, by Extra Strobel ; Bra Hos- ted, S. S. 46, by Bro. Bluto, and First Trick Dispatcher Ossman. We all hope for their speedy recovery. M. L., Cert. 832, Rhinecliff, N. T. Ontario Division — This division has been considerably handi- capped for men to fill positions vacated by the many who are off on account of the “flu.” Some offices have been closed and many of us are working 12-hour tricks to keep things going. Bro. W. J. Sheehan, who left some time ago to try out a Job with the W. U. at "SY," has returned to our division. Bro. Benedict, agent Pulaski, spent a t** days in Albany recently. Digitized by Googk

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Fifr Railroad Telegrapher. 359 Bra V. L. Tlmerson, has resigned Ontario agency. We wiah him suooess in bis new vocation. The “wild oat” scare around Woodard was a false alarm. Chairman Geer wishes the name and ad- dress of any non we know of on this divi- sion, and requests that someone on ''the West End would try and line up R. J. Knapp at Wolcott Boys, please send me more items for the write-ups. It is very difficult to get all the n^ws myself. I wish to thank those who have contributed and hope they will continue to do so. H. J. Cavellieb, Mallory, N. 'S. St. Lawrence Division — Bro. Baxter, second Roots, is on his honeymoon. Bro. la. E. Merrick, Philadelphia second, recently lost his mother. He has the sym- pathy of all. It the brothers on the U. & B., the C. & A. and the East End will send me their notes prior to the 20th of each month, J. shall be very glad to insert them. Others, both on and off the line, will appreciate the write- up. G. S. Taylor, Calcium, N. Y. River Division — Bro. C- Chiaradio, Bergenfleld, N. J., has been appointed division correspondent Keep him posted In regard to items. They may be sent to me at Bergenfleld or Dumont. Vote on L. C. salary proposition was car- ried by 535 in favor to 137 In the negative — nearly four to one. I desire to thank the members for their loyal support Beginning January 1, 1920, this cancels the arrangement existing since 191L V. Marcinkowski, L. C. River Division Notes — Sister Jansen and Extra Kimbark on six months’ leave, owing to sickness in their families. Bro. Winters, also on leave for same time, has gone South. Bro. Van Vale relieved by Bro. Hagerman ; Bro. Terry by Bro. Driscoll ; Bro. Pryor by Bro. Chiaradio ; Bra Wright by Hallenbeck, and Bro. Wal- lace by Bro. Bradley, all on account of sick- ness. Bros. Donnelly, Christian and Nicker- son and Operator L&velle, latter with ”flu.” are convalescing. Bra Hines relieved Bro. Snider on account of the illness' of the tatter’s wife, and Bro. Hoag was off on account of the death of his sister. We extend him our sympathy. Bro. Clark, displaced at “JP,” has bid it back again. Bister Yunker and several other sisters have recently left us. C. Chiaradio. Blectric Division*— We are sorry that we cannot induce you, as formerly, to attend our meetings by promising to furnish refreshments. We are compelled to discontinue it, but expect to re- sume the practice in the near future. The monthly reports of General Chairman Morey show considerable activity. Local Chairman Moss, at the February morning meeting, explained the situation at Washington. Bro. Williams showed his de* bating ability at this meeting. It is now Sister A. Rooney and Bro. C. E. Downie. Bros. Stecker, Hayford, Loring, Erbemehl and McManus were on the “flu” list re- cently. Bro. McGrannighan was off a few days re- cently, attending the sickbed of his father, who has improved. With deep sympathy and sorrow we record the death of Bro. Lester’s father and mother in Chicago within a short space of one another, and of Bro. Pisanillo’s father and baby son, who were buried together early in February. Bro. Lant was off a few days recently, attending court in White Plains. Bro. J. Cummings spent two weeks in February taking sun baths at Palm Beach. Bro. McGrath wron a medal for bravery re- cently, stopping a runaway horse and cutter in time to prevent an accident. Bro. O’Brien wishes to resign the treasur- ership after holding it for five years. . ” BftLL,” Cert. 2034. Philadelphia 6. Reading R. R.f Div. 10. Harrisburg Division — I hope the different divisions will continue to be represented in the fraternal columns as they were in the February issue. Local Chairman McDonald, General Office and Re- lay Division, should secure a correspondent for his bailiwick ; also Chairman Hiney. The badly complicated situation in “A” office, Harrisburg, is finally being got into shape through the efforts of Superintendent Chamberlin and Local Chairman McNeil. Until the matter can be finally disposed of by the general committee, the extra men will have to watch the assignments and hold'- downs closely. We are trying to secure some kind of em- ployment for the widow of Bro. Chester C. Ritter, Wernersville. Lend a hand ; she is a splendid little woman, with two fine boys, 3 and 7 years, respectively. Respond more generously to the System Division Protective Fund. We are badly handicapped in helping the five on the list now, one each from Shamokln, W. & C. and the New York Division, and two from the Philadelphia Division. You who have your health cannot appreciate what a glorious Digitized by Google

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m The Railroad Telehuax'iIkk. thing it is to help those not so fortunate, who need assistance. Bro. Parlow will send you' a. receipt for any money sent for this purpose and the committee will see that it Is properly apportioned among the needy. The general chairman generally bags a few nons each trip he makes on the various divi- sions and gets reports that no one thought it worth while to invite them to join. Don’t leave this work for the local chairman to do. Keep after those near or with you until -they sign up. We need all of them now more than ever. Act on this before you forget it. We are trying to make Division No. 10 some- thing real worth while, but must have help, as it is the membership that makes or breaks any organization. Cert. 183. Atlantic City Division — Assistant Superintendent O. A Weidner was stricken ’with apoplexy January 19th, while visiting friends at Laurel Springs, and died before medical aid could be summoned. He was buried with Masonic rites on Janu- ary 22nd, at Beading, where he started his career. Special trains were run from At* lan tic City and Camden. Among the numer- ous beautiful floral designs was one sent by the 120 employes of the telegraph depart- ment. Bro. Schneider, agent Haddon Heights, deserves credit for the way he handled the floral collections and designs. Bro. Horace Angelow, while serving on jury, was relieved by Bro. Heigshelmer. Sister Ely, agent Folsom, on sick list, relieved by Sister Snicks from South Street. Brothers and sisters, come to the meet- ings every , fourth Thursday at 1315 Colum- bia avenue, Philadelphia; mornings for sec- ond trick operators and agents ; evenings for those who can’t attend earlier. If any of you have forgotten to pay your dues and M. B. A. assessments, attend to it at once; and give the non no rest until he shows a card. Cert. 758. Canadian Govt. Rys., OIvI 11. Nippissing Division — Canadian National Railroad. — Bro. J. A. McLeod recently returned from Sudbury, bringing a bride. We all wish him much Joy. Bro. G. S. Spiers has returned from home and resumed first Foleyet Bro. Joe Donovan has resigned. Bros. Bell and Bushey, Parry Sound, both in bed with the “flu,” Bros. Steed man and LaMar working 12 hours. The latter’s wife is sick, quarantined with measles. Bro. Adams’ -son, Sudbury Jet, shot him- self while handling a gun one night re- cently. Give Bro. Healy the best service possible. He will appreciate it Handling three subs s no easy matter. Cert. 1660. Delaware & Hudson Ry., Div. 12. Penn*. Division — Our local committee are expecting a call to Albany, with Vice-President Ross, to ar- range the schedule as soon as Mr. .Gutelius recovers from his illness. Sister Mildred Kettrick. who relieved Bro. Farrell, second Hudson Tower; Bro. Melvin, Plymouth Jet, and Bro. Lord. W. Barre first, several days, on sick list later relieved Bro. Garrity at Green Ridge while he was reliev- ing at Carbon St Jet Several dispatchers are off, owing to illness, and “Book of Rules Examiner” Jehu Is filling in. Our sympathy is extended to Bros. Shea and Law, Carbon St. and Mlnooka Jets., re- spectively, upon the death of their brothers Bros. O’Malley and McDonnell, Powell and Berry doubled during their absence. Bro. P. J. Corcoran, Olyphant Yard, was off recently, attending the funeral of a rela- tive. The county courts have ruled that Bro Thos. Boles is entitled to the position of city clerk in C’Dale after a warm legal battle. Bros. Parry and Lower, relieving a few days in the superintendent’s office, were re- lieved, the former by Bice from the Grand Trunk and the latter on Mossie Tower first by Bro. J. A. Law. Bro. Gaffney, Nineveh Branch, spent sev- eral days with his folks In Throop re- cently. Let us have your opinions In regard to a flower fund, mentioned in the February issue. Bro. J. L. Connell, former agent at L&flin. is now in Detroit. No notes from Jeff or Ninevah Branch this month. T. J. Sheridan, Cert. 1027. Atlantic Coast Line R. R., Div. 15. Second Division, Montgomery District — From the appearance of our January Jour- nal our editor has split flfty-flfty with the adherents oi the plan to abolish the fraternal items In our journal, which seems the logical thing to do. We had a good meeting in our room 304. City Hall, Dothan, Sunday evening, Febru- ary 8th, with eight present. Bro. Stokes gave an interesting talk. Including some inside In- formation. You fellowB who fail to attend when you are in town are missing a lot of good dope. We were all grieved to learn of the death of the two-year-old son of Bro. and Mia- Prior at Midland City 4>n January 30th, from burns received when his clothes aoddent* ally caught fire. The parents have our heart- felt sympathy In their bereavement Bros. Strain and Whitehurst recently re- covered from an attack of influenza Digitized by Goook

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 361 Bra Knowles, Newton, was relieved a few days, owing to ftie death of his wife’s father and the serious illness of his little son, who is greatly improved. Bra Mixon has resigned to enter a bank at Ramer, succeeded there by Bro. Black, New Brockton. T. Munn, Cert, 108. Fayetteville District — Quite a bunch off with the “flu doubling at nearly every office and several closed on third. Five dispatchers off at one time in “DS.” Among the others off were : Bros. H&sselden, first ”FY” Tower and I. C. Hall, first "CK” Tower; also Bro. Clark, first Dil- ls* ; Bro. Todd, first, and Bro. Parker, second “DJM Rocky Mount. Bro. John Scott, “X" Rocky Mount, while in the hospital, was re- lieved by Bro. H. N. Austin of Pembroke, and Bro. Bodenhamer, off owing to illness in his family, was relieved by Bro. Daggett from Ranland. Dispatcher Severance has re- turned after a severe illness. Bro. A. P. Chambliss, Pu Dee, relieved ten days by Bro. Caldwell. Bro. Kennedy, third “WH” Tower, and Bro. Wells, Benson agency, resigned to enter other business. Our old friend, Bro. Bill Rector, is now extra dispatcher in Rocky Mount, making him chief dispatcher two days in each week. Help him all you can, boys. Our two last write-ups were too late for publication. Let me have your notes by the 20th, so I can arrange and get them to St. Louis in plenty of time before, the 25th of each month. Send the names of the new men on the district to Bros. W. C. Mason and J. H. Wil- liams, and keep right after them until they line up. Thanks to Bro. Watson for the notes sent me. You other brothers, send in some for next month. C. A. B., Cert. 1437. Columbia District— Bro. Mooneyhan, Elliott, has returned after several weeks' visit In Florida. Bros. Pierce of Lumber; Baltzeger, Doves- ville. and Pearce of Holly Hill, resigned. Lat- ter point closed temporarily while Bro. White, relief agent, was in bed with “flu.” Bro. Schumpert Darlington, was also down with the “flu” awhile. Bro. Biggs, Hartsville cashier-operator, has bid in something else. It Is now Bro. M. L. Smith of Barnwell, an overseas soldier. We welcome him into the Order and back home.— C. B. Kolb, Pinewood, and J. B. Graham. Marlboro, S. C.. dropped for. non-payment of dues. The new seniority list shows a number of non-members, but nine-tenths of them are new men. We must now see that they get cards. / C. B., Cert. 31. Gainesville District — Bro. Marshall has resigned as our cor- respondent and I have ‘taken it, because no one else would. You brothers along the line, send me your notes of interest not later than the 12th of each month. Nothing received this month, although I requested several brothers to help me out. Bro. Manning from Sutherland went to Waycross hospital, February 1st. Bro. Reed, who was “touring” Florida, relieved Bro. “JE” from Tarpon, who relieved Bro. Man- ning temporarily, Bro. Craig doubling at Tarpon until Bro. "JE” returned. Bro. Jones, agent Rochelle, while attend- ing court at Tampa, was relieved bv Bro.. Turner. Bro. C. E. Lingham from Division 23 is on second in St Petersburg ticket office. Bro. Johnson, who bid in Ehren agency, was relieved at Cbarwater by Q. N. Snow, who has sent in his application papers. “JE,” Cert. 368. Michigan Central R. R.f Div. 16. Northern Division — Bro. Wm. Miller, third Grayling, died of pneumonia, leaving a wife and three chil- dren. The wife of Bro. G. H. Robertson, first Bay City, W. S., died of pneumonia. Their baby was very ill but recovered ; and Bobby, the five-year-old son of Bro. and Mrs. E. Lb Jennings of Lansing, also died of pneu- monia, February 17th. The bereaved fami- lies have the sympathy of all the members. Off sick : Bro. Campbell, agent Holt ; Bro. Porter, third Saginaw;* Bro. W. J. Billow, second Zilwaukee ; first and third doubled until relieved by Sister Mallette, Chesaning third. Bro. Jennings, agent Lansing, re- lieved by Bro. McCalpin. Sister Haas, second Indian River, home on account of sickness. Trick closed. Several other tricks closed on Mackinaw and Sagi- naw on account of sickness and shortage of men. No news from any of the members this month, none from Mackinaw Division. Ckrt. 63. Middle Division — On sick list: Bros. Renner and Crandall, Vandalia ; Bro. Bergy, Battle Creek ; Bros. Trattles, Messlck and Homer, relieved by Bros. Jacobs. Glanton and Jacobs, closing third Concord; all Van Horn’s force. Includ- ing Bro. Shea, Misses Roush and Adkins, closing third hours. Bros. Miller and Alden. “SF” Jackson, Bros. Scherer and Hafer re- lieving, also Bro. Dunning, who later re- lieved Bro. Eagle when he went down. Bro. Glass, Cassopolis ; Bro. Burlington, Lawton, and Dispatcher Klefe. Fabius second closed several days on account of sickness. Bro. Shepard relieved Bro. Schultz at Union City a few days while he got mar- ried. Digitized by Google

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362 T n k Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Boylan is back at Concord vice Bro. Healy, relieving Agent Keen, Vandalia. Bro. Wicks, Botsford, gave up dispatching and returned to second Botsford, relieving Mrs. Virgo. Bro. Salter gave up the auto business and relieved Bro. White, third Augusta. It is now Bros. C. R. Hartzell, day crew dispatcher, Jackson Junction ; D. L. Shepard, third trick crew dispatcher, Jackson Junc- tion. Bro. Moulton relieved Bro. Morton, agent Colon, while latter underwent a serious oper- ation at Ann Arbor. Bro. Ellsworth, days Three Rivers, relieved several days by Bro. Bowlby, closing Fabius days. Bro. Worth, “SFM Jackson, will post up as train dispatcher as soon as Wire Chief Ram- sey can relieve him. Superintendent of Telegraph Ross and several others from Detroit called at Jack- son recently looking over the wires and tele- phones. Cert. 1330. Pennsylvania R. Dlv. 17. Trenton Division — Our committee has been advised that it is the recognized authority to take up any grievances we may have with the P. R. R. local officials and ouj* transportation has been extended over the lines east. Kennedy, Atkinson and Smith of Phillips- burg and Wilmot of Lambertville have prom- ised to line up this month. Our second annual banquet planned for February 16th was cancelled owing to the death of Assistant Chairman Villinger and Bro. Thomas Dean of Pemberton. These two good brothers will be sadly missed on this division. Letters of condolence were sent their rela- tives and everything possibly done to assist them in the hour of need. Beautiful floral pieces were presented in behalf of their fel- low workers for which a subscription was taken. After deducting $6.00 for each of them there was a balance of $18.50 on the list circulated for Bro. Villinger and $65.00 on the one sent out for Bro. Dean, which was presented to their families. We are thankful for the liberal manner In which the boys responded, especially on the Freehold and Jamesburg- branch, where both agents and operators worked together as a unit The agents have requested me to call a meeting for them and hope they will select a man from among them for our committee. Brothers, send me some notes. Cbrt. 42. show the company that union men are the best to have on this road. The banquet at the Walton hotel, Feb. 12th, was a grand success, but many of our men were unable to get off on account of sickness. The two meetings oh Feb. 11th were not attended as well as they should have been. Bro. Peacock has poor encouragement by the showing made at these meetings. If yon have anything on your minds the proper place to speak about It is the meeting room. Ckht. 74. Veto York Division — Let us keep up our preparation, not only in membership but show the company that members of the O. R. T. are good workmen. Report on time for duty. If you are going to be late notify the tower or office as soon as possible. Watch your trains closely and try to help the other fellow. Don’t think be- cause you are a member and have someone to fight your battles that you can do as you please. A loyal member will try to keep out of trouble and be right on the job. We are very sorry to announce the death of Bro. Fred Minser, well known and well liked on this end of the division. His mother and family thank the members and others who contributed for the flowers, aiso for their kind sympathy. Bro. S. R. Tomlinson, the waiter, is back with you. Boys, again I appreciate your kindness to me while In the hospital and thank you all very much for the help you all so readily and willingly gave me. One really never knows his friends until he is sick and in distress. I am proud to have you all as such and hope to always remain * true and loyal one to you all. Help Local Chairman Flaherty to keep things straight by keeping up your dues, making suggestions and attending meetings as much as possible. Expect big doingB ai the next one, so all try and be there. Cert. 6081. N. Y., P. <fc N. Division — Bro. J. C. Truitt. Delmar, visited his father, Capt. Truitt, iij the Medical Corps at Camp Meade, recently. Bro. A W. Boyce spent his relief days In Philadelphia and on the Delaware Division with Assistant Local Chairman Quillen. Bridgeville. Bros. Harry AJvord and Wise are recover- ing from an attack of. lagrippe. Bra 0. F Qillis, "SY,” was taken 111 while on duty February 9tb. It is now Bro. J. A Rew. Cert 7471 West Jersey <fc Seashore Division — Our general committee met the manage- ment at Broad street again Feb. 18th to sign up our new rules and regulations. Every man should now be on the job and Philadelphia Division— This division Is to have a new superb- tendent and staff. The headquarters ot thf new general superintendent baa been r»- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 363 moved from Altoona, where it has been lo- cated for many years, to Harrisburg, making ft the greatest railroad center of the East and enlarging the force in "UD," which is now '‘nearly solid," the last to come over being that "old timer" Sam Howard, who many years ago was secretary of old Harris- burg Division 3. Bro. James Carroll, one of "UD" old- timers, is convalescing from a serious oper- ation in Polyclintic Hospital, Harrisburg, the latter part of December. Recently the third trick force presented him with a box of American beauty, roses, which he highly ap- preciated, going to show that the time to en- joy flowers is when We are yet alive. Bro. John Fridy, on Western roads for the past ten years, returned to his old home a few years ago to manage his father’s farm and is now at J. N. Lebanon. He has always held an up-to-date. Bro. Frampton, another old-timer, who has never been without a card, recently came to ns from the N. Y. C. Bro. Addle Root Is back on 7 to 3 at High- splre after resting his "game leg” about a month. His brother Charlie, 11 to 7 same office, has been off several weeks owing to the serious illness of hiinself and wifa Bro. W. B. Maulfair, at Enola, and his young bride, a re now snugly housed in their new home. Bro. Jacob Fink has the ”big relief job” through Harrisburg and Enola yards, while Bro. Hambright is at "UD” extra. It is now Bros. "Barney” Small and "Jim" Burns. Bryn Mawr, and Bro. "Bill” Dapp, West End. also former Dispatchers Hollin- ger and Hostetter, from Labanon, now op side wire in "F.” Cert. 1093. Philadelphia Terminal Division — The Joint banquet of Division 10 and Divi- sion 17 was held, as announced in last month’s journal, on February 12th, the anni- versary of Lincoln's birthday, and was the sensation of the town this year again. So- ciability and fraternity was the spirit of the evening among those gathered at the Hotel Walton. Patriotism was evident in all quar- ters'owing to the day selected for the event, and everybody wore a small silk national flag and a real nobby patriotic "bonnet” ; everybody, we said. There was also a harm- less little "tickler” provided for each cele- brant* to be used on a chance drowsy en- thusiast, should there happen to be such in the banquet h*ll. Now there is no use to weary yon with all the detail. One of the unscheduled events of the evening was the disappearance of several ladies from the ball- room, occasioning considerable uneasiness among the various husbands concerned. Gen- eral Chairman McNeil of Division 10, how- ever, relieved the situation by marching back into the ballroom later at the head of the “lost” delegation from the show on the Roof Garden. McNeil and General Secretary and Treas- urer Farlow of Division No. 10, General Chairman Miller and General Secretary and Treasurer Skinner of Division 17 were among our prominent visitors, also Local Chairman Dewey, Philadelphia Terminal ; Local Chair- man Aiken, Maryland Division; Local Chair- man Snyder* Schuylkill Division, and Local Chairman Hiney, New York Division, of the P. R. R. Many railway officials of both the P. R. R. and the P. & R., administration officials at Washington and officers of the O. R. T., who were invited, were obliged to send letters and telegrams of regret owing to previous en- gagements, or sickness. The speechmaking was very brief and confined principally to amusing the diners. \ For a hasty preparation the committee, the makeup of which appeared in thp last issue, did its work well and deserves the apprecia- tion of the organization. Cert. 2070. "PO," General Relay, Broad Street Station, Philadelphia — The second annual banquet of the P. R. R. and P. & R. held at Hotel Walton February 12th was very well attended considering the sickness prevailing in this vicinity. After the members, their wives and friends be- came acquainted they retired to the "Indian" room where the big spread took place, amid the selections of the orchestra. Chairman Dewey announced regrets from General Manager O’Donnell, Supts. Arm- strong and Parker of the P. R. R., also front our* grand officers, of their inability to be present. Local Chairman Cochran was sick in bed, which we very much regretted, and hope for his speedy recovery. After a number of local officers from both roads had been introduced we all retired to the "Japanese” room for the dancing. It was one grand affair and great credit is due the committee for their efforts. Bros. McCann, Cassidy, Keene and Ober- . teuffer were among the 'dancers. Bros. Kil* mon, Stout and Lucy were also present and three of our printer girls. Misses Jane Georg* Jane Patchel and Arlene Woodall, were among those who enjoyed the evening. Bros. Eirich, Wainwright and Butler have been home some time on account of sickness Keep up-to-date, boys, don’t fall down now when everything is cinched. Support your officers and back them to the limit. Show your Interest by coming to the meetings. There is lots for every one to do. Cert. 713 Elmira Division — Meetings in Elmira, as usual, the first Thursday in every month. Had some good Digitized by VjOO^lC

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364 The Railroad Telegrapher. turnouts at last few meetings. Something interesting promised for future ones. Bro. PL B. Mallory. Glendora, N. Y„ has been appointed local chairman. Ask him for application blanks. Keep up-to-date. S. L. Oughterson has been appointed corre- spondent. Send him your hews. Bro. Schriver, third Hall, spent his last relief days with his sister in Richmond, Va. Bro. Shumaker, Starkey, is orv the sick list. Bro. Skelly called to New York on account of the death of his uncle. Bro. Mac Kerchar’s wife and little boy are copvalescing. They have been quarantined for scarlet fever. Bro. Wilson, Trout Run, is being congrat- ulated on the arrival of a son. Congratula- tions. Sister Bower has returned from a two weeks' visit at Akron. O. Bro. Renwick, Milo., is on an .extended trip to Florida. This divAion is nearly solid. Let’s make it 100 per cent; Cert. 1260. Renovo Division — We have realized the fruit of determined efforts by our officers through years of toil in bringing about present conditions. Every member should now take a new interest in the work on this division. Show your ap- preciation by keeping “up-to-date’* and se- curing new members. Co-operation is neces- sary to bring about the success of these efforts. The agents are to be represented by our organization and will be included in the Wage Scale and Schedule of Rules as pre- sented to the management by our general committee. Assist in lining them up. Our Local Board of Adjustment will have two representatives from the agents and two from the telegraphers, selected by the local chair- man. Bro. V. D. Holt is to be congratulated for his efforts in lining ^up the nons. We hope he will win the prize offered by the Grand Division for securing new members. Let us have a few suggestions in regard to a contest between the East and West Dis- tricts in a membership campaign, the losers giving the eats and entertainment to the winners. The news of the death of Bro. Geo. W. Myers at his home in Farwell, Denovo, Pa., was a severe shock^to his many friends and relatives. The members of this division ex- pressed their sympathy with a floral offering. Seventeen regular operators are on the sick list between Kane and Erie, with one available phoner on the list. There was a good attendance and an en- joyable time at the banquet and reception held in the New Thomson Hotel, Kane, Pa., February 16th, for the employes of the Penn- sylvania Railroad. This is my first attempt as correspondent since my appointment by Local Chairman Mercer and the work is new to me. I desire your co-operation and interest. A. Gertrude Minnock, Kane, Pa East End — Sister Cassel is back home again, also Bro. ' G. C. Johnson, after putting over the co- operative store. Send me a few notes not later than tho 20th. S. M. Hovis, Cert. 637. Conemaugh Division, West End — Send your notes to the local chairman not later than the 20th. Bro. Sheaffer has disposed of his hog farm and is now a McKeesporter. Bro. E. J. Smith recently received a carload of oranges from his farm in Florida. Bro. D. C. Bargman is moving to his farm, seven miles in the country. Let our watchword be, {,Reep after Mr nons.” Cert. 6446. Monongahela Division — The time limit for paying dues and insur- ance expired February 29th, but any who neglected to remit can still keep off the de- linquent list by doing so at once. We have been recognized by the Pennsyl- vania and our future negotiations with that road will depend on members paying their dues promptly. Bro. Roberts, * with the reduced general committee, met with R. L. O'Donnell and the P. R. R. Labor Board the last week in Jan- uary, discussed future relations between the two factions and formulated a schedule. The Old-timers who have waited over twelve years for this will certainly appreciate it. Sister Banks, “Y" Junction, who suffered a slight injury while on duty, was relieved by Bra Henne. Bro. Mullen has been relieving Train Dis- patcher McCarthy and Sister Tulenko work- ing third Becks Run. Grindstone re-opened and is now a three- trick office. Keep after the few nons and see that they join this month as promised. Cert. 661 uOO” Relay, Pittsburgh, Pa.— Bro. Dillon has been ill for several week* at his home in Ingram. Our committee called on him and presented him with some flowers and a basket of fruit. Sister Edwards is also off sick. We hope they will both soon be able to report for duty. Bro. Strang, who suffered in attack of th* "flu,” is back to work again. Chairman Clifton's wife was drying some clothes in front of a gas stove recently when they became ignited and set Arc to several chairs, curtains, etc., but besides suffering from the shock she received no Injuries. Cert. Till. Digitized by L^ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 365 Pittsburgh Division, West End — It is now Bros. Gelston and A. E. Hunker, both having offered their membership volun- tarily. Advise your chairman of any infractions of the agreement. We will have regular morning and evening meetings at least once a month, probably at New Florence and Greensburg, where all grievances will be aired and report of chair- man’s work with the officials will be com- municated to the members. Bro. Swartz is now in 49 dispatcher's office. Bro. Wentz, "CM," off for over a month with nervous breakdown, Bro. Kolb relieving. Sister Johnston has been working at Tarr and Youngwood recently. The levermen recently placed at "RH," “KB," “MO" and other towers have been taken off again. Brothers and sisters. Bee that the man or woman next to you or working with you car- Kes an up-to-date card. Remember, "No card, no favors We must make every office "oHd- Cbbt. 370. P<m Dandle Division— The enjoyable meeting held In the Husler building February 11th yas well attended and enjoyable. Splendid music was fur- nished by Prof. Evans' orchestra. The same officers wore re-elected for the coming year. Brothers who have not yet paid their dues remember your insurance policy is worthless unless you are up-to-date. We are awaiting a final report In regard to time and a half increase for Sunday and holiday work. About 25 men are on the sick list and sev- ®Jti1 obliged to work 12 hours, Bro. Bilder- back, “CO" Colliers, being among them, Bro. Hanlin being sick. Bro. Oates, who was relieved by Bro. Brown, later relieved Bro. Esplen at Rosslyn on a trip to New Orleans, was taken sick again and relieved by Bro. Roden. Bro. Austin, Newark, was relieved several days by Bro. Decker. _ Cert. 6995. Cincinnati Division — In order that we may be successful this coming year we roust adhere strictly to the principles of brotherhood and unionism and thoroughly imbibe the spirit of loyalty and solidarity. Remember that all we have today Is the result of years of constant, never-tir- ing effort by our order and not become dis- couraged, should we fall to receive what we consider a well merited increase or adjust- ment Our present situation is not secured for us for all time. We cannot stand still, but must either go forward or backward. Any defection in our ranks will be eagerly *ei*ed upon by our enemies to disrupt our union and reduce us to industrial serfdom. Some of the greatest minds in the world to- day believe in labor unions. The boys’ in "Q," "XN," the heavy inter- lock towers and several agencies, especially merit immediate attention. And all of us are entitled to an adjustment to meet the ever-increasing cost of living, but these will all be realized in time. Read the journal from cover to cover, also subscribe to some good labor paper to get the real news, a great deal of which is not being published in the daily papers. A meeting will be held as soon as we have favorable weather. Next month we will trj^-and have a write- up of division notes. Give the company the best you have and insist on the fulfillment of its coiitract with us. Cebt. 59. Cincinnati Division and C . L. dk N. Ry.— A Joint meeting was held at the Gem City Telegraphers’ Club Jan. 28th and Local Chairmen Stenger and Stone put us In touch with what was going on in Washington, also numerous other interesting happenings. The dues in the Gem City Telegraphers' Club is now $1.00 for four months, in ad- vance, initiation fee suspended. Bro. C. V. Chism is convalescing after an attack of pneumonia. Several others who were on the sick list are back at work. We extend our deepest sympathy to Bro. Williams and family, from whose home has been called a very dear one by the grim reaper, "death." It is now Bro. E. W. Powell, extra, J. W. S., Cert. 3600. Louisville Division — Bro. Hultsch, second Shelbyvllle, recently lost his mother by death. Brothers of this division sent a beautiful floral design as an expression of sympathy. Bro. Ferguson opened Greenwood third, closed since December 16th. Bros. C. R. Davis and Harris to Greenwood and Corn- brook third, respectively. Bro. G. E. Hougland, third Underwood, has purchased a restaurant in Scottsburg, succeeded by Bro. Metzger. Recently Bro. C. O. Lind, third Waynes- ville, walked over half a mile to town and back, woke up four trackmen and had them at the office ready for the wreck train to Rockford in 27 minutes from the time he was notified to call them. "How is this for speed ?" Bro. Hawkins is now working In a Detroit auto factory, relieved on third "AY" Tower by Extra Stader, who, with Behrens, also on extra list, furloughed ten months. They will get up-to-date at once. It is now Bro. "Dutch” Handerzahs. Digitized by Google

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366 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. J. A. Hitchborn, agent Jonesville,- at- tended a £&od agents’ meeting at the Severin Hotel, Indianapolis, February 16th, and had a fine dinner there. Thanks to Bro. Lind for items. Cert. 2797. Louisville Blocks Division — Bro. Prather, third “AD” Tower, relieved by Bro. Peeler several days on account of the death of wife’s father. Four of the Government suburban runs have been discontinued - between Jefferson- ville and New Albany and the only subur- bans running are to and from main line “connections.” Cert. 8623. E. <fc A. Division — Tuesday, January 20th, the committee went to Conneautville to investigate a case, starting out in a regular blizzard, and for a stretch of two miles six to eight feet of snow. The committee, upon invitation, attended a meeting of the Clerks’ Union at Sharon that evening. Interesting addresses were delivered by General Chairmen Brlceland of the Pennsylvania, Williams of the New York Central and local representatives, after which refreshments were served, followed by dancing. Boys, if you have a non working with you, or a member who has not paid his dues for the last period, line them up. Each member should see that his office is Bolid O. R. T. Ask the newcomers to see their cards. If they belong they will gladly show them and if they do not have an up-to-date see that they get one. Bro. Sheldon has organized a quartet. If you hear strange noises on the phone you will now know the cause. Bro. C. C. Collins, Detour, was off four days recently, two on committee work. I believe it would be a good idea to hold a meeting in the vicinity of Linesville, giv- ing the brothers from that section an op- portunity to learn what is going on. Bros. Harshman and Hillls took in the auto show in Cleveland, January 22nd. Bro. R. S. Fisk, Warren, Is being relieved by Bro. P. W. Liggett. Sister Anne Hush has returned to second Quakertown after several days’ illness, re- lieved by Sister Womeldorf, who later re- lieved Sister Wilson, second Haselton, while off with the grippe. Sister Soisson, who relieved at Sharps- ville several days, also relieved Bro. Hol- comb, first East Orwell, while on a trip to Cleveland. Bro. L. M. Campbell, out on the road a few weeks Instructing the operators how to handle the switchboards and telephones, was relieved by Bro. Fulkenson. Sister Lang has returned to second Grid- ley from a visit to relatives and friends near Columbus. Bro. Frank E. Hollister, mayor of Bagle- ville, has struck a gas well on his farm. We are all pleased to hear of his success. Bro. N. F. Sodge, East Orwell, has pur- chased the coal and feed business at Rock Creek, Ohio, of Harrington & Sons. We all wish him success. Cert. 3602. C. A P. Division^ Bro. C. E. Wilson, operator “RS” Wella- ville, died of the “flu” February 16th. Words fail to express our sorrow over his passing and our sincere sympathy Is extended to the bereaved ones left to mourn his km Many beautiful flowers banked the casket among which was the floral offering of the O. R. T. members, C. & P. office forces, "RD" relay, Cleveland, and “RS” Wells- ville, as a token of our love and esteem. Bro. McClellen, first “MK” Cabin, Callne- ville, is off owing to the illness of his wife, reported very low with appendicitis. Bro. Willison, formerly in the coal busi- ness at New Salisbury, is now on third "MK” Cabin. Bro. Curry, “NS” Tower, broke his arm recently while out after water. Join the Plumb Plan League and read “Labor,” published at Washington, D. C. Thousands of workers who are in darkness need this little paper to show them the light Brothers, let me have a few notes. Some of you brothers on the river and branch please send in something. Cert. 2976. FLORAL FUND FOR FEBRUARY, 1920. Receipts since last report brought forward $ 5.60 Received 9.80 Total 115.40 Expenditures : Flowers for death and sick members. 810.00 Balance on hand 8 5.40 Ira A. Rice/ See. and Treaa Toledo Division — Bros. Fisher, ”NW” Tower ; Schreeber, Millersvllle ; Knecht and Wake, Carrothers ; Bietner, Bloomville ; Baker and Welch, Waldo; Hamilton, Bellevue; Converse, Dela- ware, and Smythe, Swander, off with the “flu,” and at several offices men had to work 12 hours, no extra men avallabla Dis- patchers Lumbar and Pritchard also off several days on same account. Dispatcher Whiteman has returned from Florida, Extra Dispatcher Ryan relieving. Bro. Schutt relieved Bro. Boze, outer yard, while he was in *“Q.” Digitized by Google ,

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 367 Bro. Q. D. Claypool has gone with the Overland people at Toledo, relieved by Miss Obermeyer. CtBr. 8976. Akron Division — Let os try and locate the party using the sarcastic talk on the wires about our or- ganization and see that proper action is taken to have him looking for another job. Our local chairman’s rotospeed is cer- tainly the thing to get the dope out on the line as it comes from our grand and general officers. Apply “No card, no favors” to the nons. Ask the local chairman for a list of them and don't overlook the two suspended at Centerburg. Also send your notes and items of interest to the local chairman. Bro. Kail expects a decision shortly on the failure of the division operator to bul- letin Baddow Pass when it was ciosea and re-opened. "Hook and Eye” Zanesville Division — - Bro. McKinney, second New Lexington, attending the funeral of his wife's cousin at Nelsonvllle. relieved by Gatewood, who later relieved Bro. Bott, third “FA” Cabin, a few days. Bro. Browrn, second copier, relieved Dis- patcher Morton on second O. R. & W. while off with “flu.” Bro. G. V. Kelley recently recovered from an attack of the same. Relief Dispatcher Bro. Barks is nursing a boll on back of his right hand. Bro. Armstrong, third Lancaster, who broke his wrist cranking a Ford, is being relieved by Bro. E. T. Richardson. Bro. O. D. Brown is relfeving Bro. O. G. Ballou, first “FA” Cabin, owing to the ill- ness of latter's wife. Shortage of men made It necessary for Bros. C. A. Robinson, first, and H. Z. Hop- per. third, to double while Bro. McKinney of second there was sick. Remember our slogan, “No card , no favors ” Land the nons. Those who are not with us are against us. W. B. Rucker, Cert. 8926. iS arietta Division — — Bro.vMiller is relieving Bro. Lease, first Bethel, who recently underwent an opera- tion at Dover Hospital. Bro. Lindamood bid in copy operator third trick dispatcher's office Cambridge, and Bro. Day, Dexter City agency, vice Bro. Sims, to third “N” Cabin. Bro. Pickenpaugh is back on -second Belle Valley and Bro. Lawrence third Cambge Scales. Bro. Tall- man passed up first Marietta, and being the only bidder retains his place at Ava. Bro. Warren bid in the former. Bro. Bosold recently called to Wheeling to the funeral of his sister-in-law, and Bro. Barthalow to Columbus owing to the illness of his brother, latter relieved at Belle Val- ley by Bro. McFadden. Bro. Smith, agent MAcksburg, who fell on the ice and fractured his left elbow, has resumed duty. Bro. “Mick” Mason, second shops, who died February 11th from Bright’s disease and a complication of other diseases, will be greatly missed by us all. Send your items to “OX” Caldwell or “AT” Belle Valley not later than the 16th of each month. Cbrt. 8686. Richmond Division — It is now Bros. CS R. Meyer, Waynetrace; Riggleman, Nolands ; Austin, third “NA,” and C. O. Lewis, Hamilton. Bros. Locke, Eaton, and Taylor, Camden, were among the lucky four hundred at- tending the 16th annual Jackson banquet at Eaton recently. Bro. Hoggat, second Olive Hill, was ab- sent a few days while his little girl had pneumonia, now improving. Bro. Clouser, third "CG” Tower, also absent several days while his wife had the “flu.” Dispatcher Mungavin, second North End, down two weeks with it, also five operators, all extra men working. Bro. Billiard, second Mill- ville, sick several days, also Bro. Francis, third Windfall, Bro. Smith relieving latter. Bro. Fickle relieved Bro. Hodgin, first “MR” Cabin, a few days. Bro. McSpadden, second Hagerstown, called to Tennessee on account of the death of his sister. The new pass words mean lots this time, and we must bear them in mind from now on. Send the local chairman a copy of your bids and notify him when assigned so he can see that the proper ones get their rights. Circulate the news that should be known by notifying your correspondent. Cbrt. 6378. Western Division — The membership on this division extend our heartfelt sympathy to Bro. H. M. Cow- den, wire chief at Fort Wayne, in his be- reavement, owing to the death of his wife. Bro. Witmer and L. L. Selby, extras, re- signed. If the railroad men want to know what the farmer (who farms the farmer) thinks of them they % should read the article by O’Brien in “The Country Gentleman ” Feb- ruary 21st, entitled, “The High Cost of Loafing.” Brothers, let’s all get in the Plumb Plan League that now has about a million mem- bers and push it along a little faster. It may have something to say this fall as to who will be elected to public office. The union men In Indiana have formed a Labor Digitized by Google

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368 The Railroad Telegrapher. Party and need every union man and farm- er to help. Bro. R. H. Sheely gets a new son and a regular Job about the same time. No won- der he is happy. If the brothers east of Fort Wayne will send me a few items each month we can have a better write-up. Remember, “No card, no favors.” B. J. F.. Cert. 2456. Indianapolis Division — Bro. Bump has appointed me division correspondent. Remember, brothers, that it is important to keep in good standing and be union nven in spirit as well. When you pay your dues your duty as a union roan has just com- menced, and any man who has to be begged or coaxed to pay his dues is not likely to take the right stand when put to the test Keep in touch with the ones you work with and around you. Those who think we will get what is justly due us without union affiliation need only to review the past to have that idea dissipated. We must con- tinue to fight for everything we get in the future the same as we have in the past A great deal has been said during the past three years about making the world safe for democracy. By the time we have our own house In order we may be capable of helping some of our neighbors. Bro. Will Fusselman, first at Elk for a number of years, who died at his home in Martinsville,. Indiana* February 9th, had been in poor health for several years, never fully recovering from an operation per- formed last fall. He was a big, kind-hearted fellow and will be greatly missed by all. He leaves a widowed mother, aunt and a host of friends to mourn his death. F. L. Davidson, Cert 2400, Martinsville, Ind. Logans port Division — Bro. T. H. Bunn, second "RI” Tower Rip- ley, resigned owing to ill health. We extend our sympathy to Bro. R. R. Shull, "PV.” Tower, and Bro. Jerry Shull of Saratoga and relatives owing to the death of their brother, Thomas L. Shull, formerly an agent and operator on this division, and for the past ten years with the "WU” at "H” Logansport, Ind ; also to Bro. E. E. Brock, Converse, in the death of his wife, and to Bro. O. V. Sparks, Hartford City, owing to the loss of his infant daughter by death. Bro. '‘Archie” Davidson, second "MR” Tower, and Miss Edith Jacks, telephoner at "FN" on Michigan Division, are being congratulated on their recent marriage. It is now Bros. R. R. Shutt, second "PV” Tower, and George Wahmhoflf, second Den- ham. Any who neglected paying their dues be- fore March 1st are now delinquent and their beneficiaries unprotected in case of their demise. Attend to this important matter at once. "VN,” Cert. 4076. Michigan Division— Local Chairman Garrett met W. L. Ekin and J. D. Dale February 7th and adjusted cases Nos. 4 and 5. Bro. John Hamilton is now back at "FN,” Bro. Logan back on first Ellis and Sister Schneider on third New Market. , Bro. H. O. Robbins is off sick with the "flu." Get after the nons and give them no rest until they get a card. Make our slogan. "Get in the Order or get off the road,” as a “non” isn’t any good to either. I have* frequently overheard members thanking Dan Lewis for information re- ceived. What thanks has he given you for the increase in salary and working condi- tions he has got which your money paid for? A member should be 100 per cent. Sorry to report the death of Bro. J. M. Brown’s wife on February 14th, laid to rest February 16th, also the mother of Bra W. M. Flook, Hoover, February 6th, laid to rest February 7th. The members of this division wish to express their regret to Bros. Brown and Flook for the loss of their loved ones. Cbrt. 6536. Chicago Terminal Division — We have been hard pressed for relief men owing to so many of the boys being off witn la grippe, influenza . or pneumonia, among them were Bros. Hoffman, Leslie, A. Carr. Springer, Thorne, E. A. and H. H. Miller, Niemeyer, Redding, Toomey and Dispatcher La Rue. All - have recovered except Bro. Toomey, who is convalescing rapidly. A circular letter from our chief complimenting us for our loyalty and good Bervice in a time of need is indeed pleasing and such a rare compliment that we should all be thankful. The oldest men on the division cannot re- member of ever having such an eulogy be- fore. Bro. Willetsky, formerly on third *TH," now on the St. Paul at Rush Lake, Wia, gave us a call recently. He had Just lost his only child, a boy two years old. He has our heartfelt sympathy. Bro. Pumphrey, "XN” relay, was off re- cently attending the funeral of his Bister at Berney, Ind., and Bro. Masepohl, first "NA,” a few days attending the funeral of his brother in Hammond, Ind. Bro. Prudehomme resigned to enter busi- ness in Mobile, Ala., and Bro. Wahlan bW in second at "BV.” Bro. Wardell Is being complimented upon the arrival of a boy at his home. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 369 The regular meeting of the Keystone O. R. T. Club was well attended, President Bro. Mander in the chair. A floral fund was arranged for members of the families of each member in addition to the regular 0. R. T. fund, which applies only to the members themselves. Those who have not been able to join this so far should see Bro. Handschy, the secretary, and get a card to this club. Meets first Monday each month at Chandler's Hall, 71st and Cottage Grove avenue. Cert. 2522. Chicago Terminal Division Notes— The new Dolton Tower has been com- pleted. If the machine arrives it will prob- ably be in operation May 1st. Bro. Long was on the Jury a week. Bro. Prudhomme, Taylor street, has re- signed and gone to Mobile, Ala. The Terminal ended 1919 100 per cent strong. Let’s keep it that way for 1920. Cert. 2913. St. Louis East Sub-Division — The meeting at Terre Haute February 14th of the Pennsylvania Lines, "Big Four,” Southeastern and C. & E. L, was well at- tended considering what the weatherman handed out that night. Bro. Hindmarch gave his usual interesting talk on the standing of matters at Washing- ton. Bros. Whalen of the "Big Four" and Powell of the Southeastern also gave their views on the vital questions at isaue. Bro. Geo. Mank’s familiar "Q” which has been heard in "SO" lo these many years will be missed as he has taken first East Yard, relieved by Bro. Conaster, third "K" Cabin, relieved by Bro Latta. Bro. Shortridge, first Coatesville, owing to illness in his family, relieved by Bro. J. Stewart, second there. Bro. Leachman, agent Knightsville, Ind., and Bro. "Shorty" Grossman, first Hobbs, were off several days recently. Bra Glen Bailey, third "DS" Terre Haute, relieved Bro. Germain, first there, account Illness, relieved by Bro. Eeterbrook. Bro. Robinson, third Fillmore, off sick, re- lieved by Bro. Baldwin. Bro. Locke, second Hobbs, recently mar- ried, Is honeymooning East Congratulations and best wishes. Bro. Wiseman, attending DePauw Univer- sity, works Saturday and Sunday nights. _ Cert. 2886. St. Louis Division , West End — Relieved on sick list : Bro. Surber, first "AD” ,Tower, several days by Bro. W. C. Schwehr, and Bro. Buehlman, third Collins- ville, by an extra non from the East End. Bro. Schwehr resigned recently. Bros. Miller and Buehlman doubled while Bro. Walter Switzer, second Collinsville, was off sick, until Chairman Hindmarch relieved the situation the second day. It sounded natural to hear "Hiney" back on ’phone re- peatir^g train orders. Bro. C. M. Kilby, third Highland, sick sev- eral days, was relieved by Sister Lydell, Greenville, who later relieved Bro. Stroot, third Pocahontas. Bro. Gaston, third Brownstown, relieved by Bro. E. E. Muller owing to the death of his wife. We extend our sympathy to Bro. Gaston, also to Bro. Henderson, Alta- mont, on account of the death of his mother. Bro. Gaston desires to thank the members for their kindness and help, also for the beautiful floral offering. -Bro. Challis, first Brownstown, relieved a few days b^ Bro. R. S. Pryor and Bro. Ray, second Vandalia, several days by Bro. Henderson, Altamont. Bro. Abbott, agent Pierron, was off re- cently attending the funeral of a relative of Effingham. It Is now Bros. Templeton, operator, and Agent Thalman, Montrose, and Agent Dex- ter. Cert. 2410. “Nickel Plate” R. R., Dlv. 18. Fort Wayne Division — It is now Bros. E. M. Cane, assistant agent. Latty, O. ; C. M. Pritchard and R. V. Johnson, agent and assistant agent, Leip- sic, O. Bro. R. P. Lingenfelter, Fostoria. on sick list several days, relieved by Bro. Hollopeter. Bro. L. D. Stockton, Findlay, Ohio, trans- ferred to this division. The father of Bro. E. G. Benskin, second. Oakwood, died at Maumee, Ohio, recently at the ripe old age of 87 years. Bro. Benskin has our sympathy in his bereavement. Bro. H. E. Bowman and wife called to Washington, D. C., owing to the death of his brother’s wife, Bro. Dray relieving. Pro. F. F. Crowley, first Mortimer, while on committee work, was relieved by Bro. M. S. Lowe of second and he by Bro. V. D. Clark. Brothers who have neglected to pay their dues should pay up at once in order that the beneficiaries named in their M. B. D. certificates may be protected. Our fellow workers, the B. of R. C. and the U. B. M. W. employes, recently suc- ceeded In getting a schedule, and we rejoice with them In their good fortune. We can be of much assistance to those boys by help- ing to organize the clerks and sectionmen at our respective stations if they are not al- ready in line. Cert. 37. New York’Cen. (Lines West), Dlv. 19. Toledo Division — It Is now Bro. Edward Mauer, second "BR" Tower, Cleveland ; Thompson, on first Digitized by Google

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370 The Railroad Telegrapher. there, is the only non in this territory. Erie Division brothers take notice. Temporary phone clerk positions have been put on at Adams avenue and a yard master stationed at Adams avenue. Bro. Hausman, who relieved Slddell on third there, is In bed with the “flu.” Merriman and Swimicum doubled pending relief. There are quite a number down with the malady around Toledo and Cleveland, and the “rem- edy" is hard to get unless you are well known in “select society.” Several old-timers have joined again but there - is still a shortage of operators and towermen. Bro. Deere, second Fremont, on the sick list for a month. Is still unable for duty. A. C. (*, Cert. 1302. N. Y., Ont. A Western, Div. 20. Northern Division — Bro. F. A. Bradley, agent New Berlin, has recovered from his recent illness and re- sumed his duties. Bro. Pindar, agent Munns, is recovering from his recent illness. Others on sick list are: Bros. Horan, sec- ond, and Dixon, third Randallsville ; Wicks, agent Solsville; Moore, first Sidney, relieved by Richards, third Summit (closed) ; Harti- gan, ticket agent Oswego, and Heminway, agent Westmoreland, latter relieved by Bro. Kidd. Bro. Sculley, second Fulton Broadway, was relieved several weeks by Bro. Sheehan. Bro. E. H. Roberts bid in New Hartford agency, succeeded by Bro. E. W. Towne, relief agent at Fish Creek agency; Bro. L. B. Edwards bid in operator-cashier, new position Utica freight house, succeeded at Caughdenoy agency by Bro. E. R. Wicks, and he at Solsville agency by Bro. J. A. Car- penter, succeeded at Constantla agency by Bro. C. H. Bonneau, operator ”NH.” Our Utica freight station, closed since August 10th, 1918, date of consolidation with the D. L. & W., was re-opened Jan- uary 5th by J. M. Page as acting agent. Bro. E. J. Dixon, agent New Hartford, now with the traffic department of the Oneida Community Limited, at Kenwood, has been a member of the O. R. T. for about 15 years. We wish him success in his new position. C. H. B., Cert. 128. Quite a number of our members have been suffering from the prevailing “flu” epi- demic, and Bro. Earl Benton, second Sum- mitville, passed away Friday, January 30th, after a few days’ illness from that disease. General Chairman Conner called to Wash- ington February 23d together with the other general chairmen in reference to the wage question. The petitions in reference to Rule 3 are in from all divisions at this writing. Feb. 20th, except Scranton, and it will no doubt be received before you read this. Any who have not remitted for the cur- rent term should do so at once ' to prevent being dropped. Both the division dues and M. B. D. assessment must be paid to place such members in good standing and protect their beneficiaries, and also be accompanied by assessment slip No. 145, properly signed. Cert. 7. C. I. A W. R. R., Div. 21. Indianapolis Division — The musical outfit from Cottage Grove Tower furnished the necessary harmony for the Liberty dance St. Valentine’s night. Bro. Napier is not a member of the orchestra, but a musician who specializes on the “slip horn.” First Trick Dispatcher Siegrist, suffering from high blood pressure, has gone to Flor- ida. Bro. Cummins, relieved by Stephenson, took “DI” ^car desk, vice Houck, now extra dispatcher. Bro. Griffin, third Connersvllle, has also been granted leave of absence. O’Keefe is relieving Carrington, State street second, on sick list. Cert. 87. • Mo., Kan. A Texas Ry., Div. 22. I have noticed with great interest the im- provement in The Telegrapher the past two years ; we now have a real labor maga- zine, giving us the labor news. It is also interesting to note that those who for a number of years deluded them- selves Into thinking that It was for their individual benefit to remain outside our ranks have at last given us a chance to edu- cate them out of their mistaken beliefs. We should make them realize that we are brothers, that we assist each other and that they have been a hindrance to our progress, forcing us to organize and reorganize, thus blocking and delaying the work that would tend to improve their condition. Educate the new member who has been working at his trade for perhaps two years, paid dues for only two terms and claims that the Order hae made very little improve- ment in that time, show him that to drop out would only make his working conditions worse, if enough followed his foolish ex- ample to affect our standing as a whole with the railroad officials, which we will not al- low to happen, and that the movement is going to progress even if he does drop out. so he will be the only loser. The time-tried brothers and sisters can now rejoice because their work is bringing results. The indifferent are awakening and nons will soon be a thing of the past. Brothers and sisters, resolve : First, to obey all the laws of this Order; second, to not rest until all eligible become members ; Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 371 third, to never become delinquent, and fourth, to advise me your certificate num- ber when you remit your dues. F. A* Brown, O. S. & T. Parsons District — Keep after the few nons, boys. Lose no chance to invite them 4.0 come in. Let us co-operate with our local chairman and make this district 100 per cent strong. Imaginary grievances do not justify anyone in dropping his card. Remember, brothers, “No card, no favors,” and live up to it A good many have been off on account of the influenxa and several offices were closed owing to shortage of operators. Send me all the news you hear of. A. W Hals, L. O. Smithville Relay — Assistant Local Chairman Lee, promoted to "student train dispatcher" upstairs in the chiefs office, was relieved on first here by Bro. R. C. Cathey, and he on local Job by Bro. H. O. Jones from New Braunfels. Bro. P. C. Cosgrove from Houston has second wire chief Job, vice Bro. C. K. Jones to Muskogee as wire chief. Bro. Cathey, while attending court at Bastrop, Texas, on a suit against the West- ern Union, was relieved by Bro. Lee. SmithvQle Dtotrict, North End— Bro. J. Fernandez, second Hewitt, was in the Dallas Hospital several days recently. Thanks to Bro.'D. A. Tunstall, Eddy, for the notes sent me. Brothers on the San Antonio District kindly advise me of the changes over that way ; also you boys on the line. Smithville. District South— Bro. Larson, from Oakley, Kan., U. P., relieved Kraus, second Sealy. Bro. Craw- ford, from Sealy, succeeds Bro. Harrilson, deceased, at Bastrop. . I was “down and out" three days with the near flu." Just able to be up and at work again. Let's get after the "non-telegraph agents." They are receiving good salaries due to our efforts. We boys who carry up-to-date cards must remind them of this and give them no rest until they come in with us and help to Pay for the benefits they are enjoying. Frank Haggard, Cert. 429. Henrietta Division— We are very* near 99 per cent solid and with a little help from our brothers and sis- ters the few nons can soon be lined up. Don't forget, “No card , no favors ” especial- ly you who are working with nons holding regular scheduled positions. Local Chair- man Meyers, Gainesville, will send you all the application blanks you can use. We are all glad to have Sister Merchant back on third at Gainesville. Bro. Thorpe, second Bonita, has bought a horse. Sister Cooley, ^second Woodbine, is griev- ing over the death of her pet kitten. Bro. Johnson, second Henrietta, is being congratulated over the arrival of a new boy at his home. * Bros. Robbins, Woodbine, and Stoelzer, from Muenster,. were recent Gainesville visitors. • I have been appointed correspondent for this division. Send me your notes not later than the 18th in order to insure their inser- tion in the following issue. H. G. Robbins, Cert. 754, Woodbine, Tex. C.( M. & St. P. Ry., Div. 23. Musselshell Division — Interpretation No. 8 to Supplement No. 18 to General Order No. 27 are household words up this way these days. Bro. Breckenridge is now in the Detroit, Mich., Ford electrical department, Bro. Tom Kramer out In Washington state getting rich raising chickens, spruce for airplane arms, saw logs, etc., and Geo. Allex is man- ufacturing miners' lamps, tools and acces- sories at Denver, Colo., succeeded by Bro. R. O. Schwindt at Roundup agency. With the oil . boom now on there It's no sinecure. This and Melstone agency recently added to our scheduled jobs; Bro. Wallace is at the latter point Bro. Sasser is sojourning in Mississippi with Mrs. Sasser and their little daughter. Bro. Sperling is handling the L: C. business during Bro. Sasser’s absence. Bro. Cawood, returning from the Army, declined to bump a married brother and went on the extra list Bro. Hackett, Cala- bar, went to Indiana as he di£l not wish to bump anyone. This Christian spirit is ap- preciated by those affected, though there are no criticisms for those exercising their privilege. Bro. Mclntire, Musselshell third, is re- ported improving after having the “flu.” We were all shocked to learn of Bro. Harry Harper’s death at Westmore from in- fluenza. Interment was at the old home, Lincoln, Neb. An O. R. T. floral emblem was the loving tribute of his many friends. Only two “nons” and two “ delinquents ” on this division and not a lady in either class. Come on, fellows , pay up. Margaret Breslin^ Plevna ; Lulu Metzell, Bascom, and Miss Ada Mather, Kinsey, are our three new sisters. New brothers : Wal- lace, Melstone ; Hoffman, Vananda, and Mc- Gill, Kinsey. Pity the follow who stands in the way of 100 per cent strong April 1. Div. Cor. Digitized by Google

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372 The Railroad Telegrapher. Hastings dt Dakota Division— With deep regret and sorrow we report the sudden death of Bro. V. E. Peterson of Granite Falls from heart trouble. He dropped dead 10 minutes after "O. S.ing" 17. A nice floral piece was sent as a memen- to of affectionate regard by the members of this division, who extend «their heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved relatives. Bros. B. A. Shea, Gilhei, Stielow, Koelfgren, Put- zier, Ustruck, Dispatcher A. J. Starks and Signal Maintainer Dunn attended the funeral at Granite Falls. Bro. Martenson, at Brownton, on sick list, relieved by Miss Harmer, and Bro. Martin Ogren at Appleton was off several days with the "flu.” Bro. Syler, Bristol, was called to St. Louis on account of his ^father’s sickness. Bro. James Sherin, Montevideo side table, visited his folks at St. Paul several days recently. Bro. Fosnes relieved Bro. Meyers at Mil- bank for a week. Bro. B. A. Shea, Tower E-122, while shift- ing levers, sprained his shoulder and was relieved by Bro. L. L. . Christianson several weeks, who later relieved Bro. Nygren at Tower E-39 on account of the "flu." Bro. E. J. Buehmer8 took in the auto show at the Twin Cities recently. Join The Plumb Plan League, Munsey building, Washington, D. C., and get the weekly paper, “Labor” for $1.00 a year, in addition to your membership card and but- ton. The West H. & D. Division conduc- tors, train and enginemen are over 95 per cent strong Plumb Plan Members and a good many agents and operators between Montevideo and Aberdeen have joined. Bro. Ed. Derrickson, G. S. & T., has started an advertising campaign which is waking up the nons and will Increase our membership wonderfully. It is now Bros. E. J. Ruehmers, side table Montevideo, and R. C. Silker, Java, S. D. "Red" Kalb, Cert. 1890. Iowa and Dakota Division — Three tricks again been put on at Giard and Fort Atkinson, with Sisters Reyner and Reislnger, respectively, in charge. Operators were pretty scarce for a time on account of so many being down with the "flu." Bro. C. C. Searls, agent Algona, is off get- ting married. Bro. F. Sweep, agent Plankinton, has gone into other business, succeeded by B. E. Jen- nings. Bro. Derrickson has started a 100 per cent membership campaign, mailing each member a list of nons and sending copies to the terminals to be given conductors and trainmen. They will help us to make life miserable for the nons but we must make it still more so for those working at the same station until they come in. Let’s all get busy lining up our own offices solid and it won’t take long to get them alL Remem- ber. “No card, no favors.” Cert. 2784. River Division — Bro. Marron, our regular correspondent, having taken up a commercial course, asked to be relieved from the duties of correspondent and I accepted the position on the condition that he would assist me. I also expect the other brothers and Bistera to furnish me the news. I have asked Bra G. J. Poeschl, Wabasha, and Bro. W, A Winters, Hastings, to send me notes each month, and woyld appreciate your giving yours to either of these brothers if you can- not reach me personally. The success of the future write-ups will greatly depend on the assistance you furnish me, aa former correspondents claim it Is very hard to get notes. There are a few new men on the division. If any of you will try to get them In I will be glad to send you application papers. Lake City third closed while Bro. Olson relieved Bro. Poeschl, third Wabasha, off with the "flu." Others on sick list: Bra* Snure, second Red Wing, a few days with lumbago ; Lemen, first Hastings Yard ; Bro. Nease, third signal tower, several nights, and Bro. Kenyon, second there, who I re- lieved two weeks. Eau Claire Junction abolished, Bro. Mc- Donough to Vermillion ; Central Junction closed. Bro. Kampf bumping Smocke at Durand ; Homer agency abolished, Bro. Var- num bumping Beck from Afton agency, who bumped Bro. Grun from second Hastings Yard. Bro. O. B. Highler, dispatcher C. & N. W., Is on third Winona. Bros. Dickson, second, and Widmoyer, third River Junction, being relieved by Caryle and Daly, new men. Former dispatcher Bro. Kenyon is now In the real estate business in Minneapolis. Dispatcher F. E. Brunner recently re- turned from Russia as a First Lieutenant Thanks to Bros. Marron, Olson and Poeschl for notes. Don’t forget boys, that I will need them every month. Cert. 8220. v Kansas City Division- Get after the non next to you and urge him to line up, not -only for what h*e expects to get in future, but in order to retain what he has already received. We need to be 100 per cent a"nd stay that way. Bro. Hollis’s wife at Lawson has been sick some time with the "flu" and he has been nurse, cook and general housekeeper. He was off several days owing to the death Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 373 of a sister-in-law, relieved by Sister Mamie Scannell, who also worked & few days at Mystic and Moravia on account of sickness there. Marshall, Darby, and Hosie, Gilliland, were pressed Into service awhile to help out. Bra Schoonover, agent Laredo, and his wife, and Trainmaster Horton, , are all on sick list. Bro. T. R. Thomas, at Moravia, la., for a number of years, died of pneumonia, Feb- ruary 18th, following an attack of the “flu.” He was a mighty line fellow and we will all miss him very much. We were also sorry to hear of the death on February 14 th of Bro. Walser, of Division 130, who worked second trick Joint with our line at Birming- ham. Boys, please send me some items each month. There are old K. C. Division men scattered all over the country to whom they will be interesting. Make a note of any lit- tle thing you hear of and send it to me at "EX” by the 20th of the month. Cbbt. 762. Dubuque Division — Bro. O. B. Handy, first North McGregor, resigned, succeeded by Bro. V. G. Drumb, and he on second McGregor by Bro. W. H. Martin. Sister Mrs. R. Harrison, third Gor- dons Ferry, also resigned. Bra W. H. House is working second Pres- ton while Bro. Wm. Ott is relieving Bro. Peter Ott, the agent there, on sick list Bros. F. J. Dwark, Forest Dohlin, Sam Mc- Clave and Sister Verna Nelson were also sick several days during the "flu” epidemic. The snow that fell 4ast November was still with us February 15th, when this was writ- ten, and 20 below. Preston line snowed In. Bra B. A. Towle, one of our oldest mem- bers, who died at his home in Lansing, Feb- ruary 4th, had been ailing sinco last sum- mer. He was operated on in September for cancer of the liver. Six members at- tended the funeral. Mrs. Towle and family desire to express their thanks for our kind- ness and the beautiful floral tribute. They have our sympathy in their bereavement. Cert. 999. Mobile & Ohio R. R., Div. 24. Mobile Division— Bro. P. K. Gwln, extra dispatcher, re- lieved First Trick Dispatcher Devere, Tus- caloosa. several days on sick list. Bro. A. El Peterman, Jr., is now extra dispatcher, and Bro. L. W. Cottle is clerk-telegrapher tn dispatcher's office Tuscaloosa. Bro. J. Greene relieved Bro. E. S. Ford, Wahalak while away having his eyes treated. Bro. C. E. Brown gave up Mahew agency as there was no house to move his family tnta Bro. W. D. Long relieved Bro. E. E. O’Hara, called to West Point on account of his brother being killed by a switch en- gine while on duty there. We extend him our heartfelt sympathy. It is now Bros. W. S. and M. L. Pigford, Lockhart. Bro. Adams, first Quitman, spent Sunday recently in Mobile with friends. Bro. Gil- more, second Quitman, took a trip to Colum- bus a few Sundays ago. Bro. Northsworthy, third Quitman, was relieved a few days re- cently by Bro. R. Patrick, Deer Park, and Bro. Credle, third Reform, was relieved sev- eral days by Bro. Tommy Hudson. Sister Emmons was relieved by Bro. P. F. Findley a few days at Gordo on account of the illness of her mother. Bro. R. F. Dawkins, agent Joffre, off a few days recently with fever, was relieved by Bro. R. C. Owen of Shubuta, and Bro. Whitehurst, first Montgomery Yard Consol- idated A. C. L-M. & O., was down some time with the “flu.” Boys, send your local chairman all the happenings by the 10th and let’s have a good write-up every month. Cert. 184. Wabash Railroad, Div. 29. Decatur Division — The amount raised for Bro. L. S. Stephens, Cert. 679, Weston, 111., who has been off sick since last June, was 8246.86. Inasmuch as we could not expect the editor to publish the names of all those who con- tributed J have had the lists verified by Bro. S. M. Walton, Cert 24, and M. C. Drlskill, and turned them over with the donation to Bro. Stephens, who, with his wife, wishes to thank all his fellow workers for their kind and brotherly generosity, coming as a most happy surprise at a time when really needed. The prevalence of the “Jlu” has given nearly all the extra men steady work, and in order to prevent any complaint as to not being used according to their seniority standing (which provides In the agreement that the oldest competent extra man avail- able should be placed first) they should keep me advised when they are working, when idle and where located. We can then keep a check on this matter and we should see that those who have not yet lined up do so at once. The agents should see that their helpers and clerks keep off the telephones. The night clerk at Monticello recently took a “31” for No. 64 and delivered it without getting a complete signature, which the dis- patcher discovered by calling up about forty minutes after the train had gone. The hours of the day operator at this station have not been changed In the past year and this order was put out thirty minutes prior to the time he was supposed to come on duty. The superintendent advises that the dis- Digitized by Google

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374 The Railroad Telegrapher.* patcher thought he was doing business with the operator. General Chairman Unglaub called on some of the members on this division recently. We hope he can make us a more extended visit in the near future. - In the January Telegrapher, Sixth Dis- trict write-up, mention was made of “Bro. Bain" going from Ritchie, 111., agency to the extra board. Bain is not a member, but we should see that he becomes one with- out delay. Bro. Huffman, second Ashburn, is break- ing in as dispatcher at Forrest. Rot Veech, L. C. Decatur Division Notes — Bro. Byrnes, “GM“ St Louis, and wife visited his brother in Chicago recently, who had been injured in a railroad accident at Salem. Herb also called on the boys at “JS¥ and "2." Bro. Pifer, third Ashburn, recently visited homefolks at Battle Creek. Bro. Huffman, second Ashburn, relieved Bro. To\frler, second Forrest, while his wife was sick with the “flu.“ Bro. Kurtz, 47th street, Chicago; Bro. A. C. Kay, agent Orland ; Bro. Ritchie, Chicago Ridge, and Bro. Furry, third Bement were on sick list several days. Symerton second closed one night while Bro. Munch was sick. Bro. M. Boone, Stead, desires to thank the brothers for their help and sympathy, also for the beautiful floral offerings in his sad hour of affliction. Bro. Ambrose relieved Bro. Dennis and Bro. Million relieved Sister Ayers at Bris- bane a few days. Bro. N. J. Delohi, Ballou, has received patent papers from Canada covering his automobile door opening and closing device for which he also has patents pending in the United States and Eurppe. We should combine our efforts to defeat the proposed “anti-strike*’ legislation In Illinois. Cert. 798. Decatur Division, Ninth and Thirteenth Districts— Bro. Herdt, agent, and Bro. Thomell, third Boody, relieved several days by Bros. Holllwell and D. C. Ditzler, latter later re- lieved by Bro. Million when called home owing to the death of a relative. Later Bro. Holllwell relieved Bro. Lankford, Edwards- ville, several days. Bro. Lumsdon, second East Decatur, was off several days, and Bro. Hyde, first Mt. Olive, over Sunday, latter relieved by Bro. Quigley. Bro. Appel, agent Granite City, and fam- ily spent Washington’s birthday with home folks at Summerfield, 111. ; Bro. Slater, third Strawn, a few days with home folks at Mor- rlssonvllle, and Bro. Fohrell, third Edwards- ville Junction,, took in the sights at Mound City recently. Bro. T. C. Towler^ second Forrest, wishes to thank the brothers of Division 26 for the beautiful floral offering contributed during his sad hours of bereavement in the death of his wife. We all extend him our heart- felt sympathy. Cebt. 740. Decatur Division , North End — Boys, watch your pay check closely. Don’t get it mixed up with your unused green cards. One brother got his in the fire this way. The telephone and telegraph have been cut in at Custer Park for the ice cutting season. Bro. Wheeler was relieved several dayB by Bro. Quigley at Orland, and Bros. Rufty and Rudy at Chicago Ridge by Bro. Million. Bro. Bill Ricketts at Campus and Dis- patcher Fightmaster, both made a large rab- bit killing recently. Huffman, Cert 272. Peru Division — Bro. Clyde Smith, third Logans port see- ing Texas for two weeks, was relieved by Bro. Wall. Bro. Hellwig, first Williamsport Is now with the Essex Auto Co. there. He has our best wishes for success. Bros. Hood and Robinson, Clymers; Pat- rick, West Point ; Wheatley, Tilton, and many others are on sick list on account of which several of the brothers have been compelled to double. Bro. Bridenbaugh, second Danville, was off several days owing to the illness of his wife. FLOWER FUND. Cash received since March 1st 1918.191.20 Disbursemeifts '. . . . . 66.00 Balance on hand $26.20 $91.20 On the Spencer fund there was received $179.60, out of which Bros. W. B. and Tx G. Spencer’s and Bro. Wallick's dues were paid until June 30th, 1920. This was certainly a good response to the appeal sent out by Bro. Cochrane. Bro. Bennett NewWaverly, donated $4.00 to the Spencer fund and $6.00 to the flower fund, while some of the brothers have not even remitted one dime. The brothers who have not already dene so should be able to send in at least 60 cents for so worthy a cause. Won’t you please do this? During the past month .death called three of our brothers to that land from ’whose borne no traveler returns. Bra C. Smith, a young man Just starting out in life, died at Peru Hospital of pneumonia. Bra & A. Digitized by CjOO^IC

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 375 Patrick, second Williamsport, an old and faithful member, died at LaFayette Hospi- tal of pneumonia, his wife dying two days previously, leaving five small children, the youngest five days old.* Bro. A. Webber, second Buck Creek, "also died at LaFayette Hospital of pneumonia. He was a devout Christian, whose generosity toward the s*ck and afflicted, often going without sleep and rest himself to minister to those less for- tunate. earned him the sobriquet of *‘the widow's friend." Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the relatives of the deceased brothers, and as no words of ours can console them, we com- mend them to him "who doeth all things well." "Lid," Cert. 846. Moberly Division — A total of 1197.76 was collected and turned over to Mrs. Horan. I wish to thank all the , brothers and others who so generously contributed to the fund. C. W. Layton, Cert. 204. St. Louis Southwestern Ry., Div. 27. Jonesboro , North — Off several days with tHe "fiu," Bros. Bugg, "SO" Illmo, and Bennett, third St. Francis, latter relieved by Sister Morgan; also Chief Dispatcher Buckminister, relieved by Dispatcher Axline. Bro. T. E. Moore relieved Bro. Robinson, Hollywood, several days while off with smallpox. Bro. R. D. Conyers, who recently returned from the hospital and relieved Bro. Law- rence, agent Randles, a few days on account of sickness, later relieved Bro. J. A. Mc- Coneghey, Dexter Junction third, when he took Altheimer agency. Bro. J. D. Cross, South End, is now in "SO" Illmo, vice Morris resigned. Sister S. Waldrip, also from South End, is back on second Malden, and Bro. Under- hill on first there. Sister S. Chri8man relieved Bro. Geo. Reed on first Fornfelt. relieving Bro. Fink on car Job while he relieved the dispatchers. Having been appointed division corre- spondent by Local Chairman Welch, I desire to have a good write-up in every issue of Thi Telegrapher. To do this It will be necessary for you members to keep tabs on all the happenings in and around your sta- tions, mailing them to me not later than the ,20th of each month so I can put them In order and mail them to St. Louis by the 25th. Night clerks at some stations are answer- ing on the dispatcher's "phone" and report- ing passing trains. Brothers, kindly re- quest them to discontinue this, explaining that they are keeping an operator out of a Job, or least a call, by doing so. They evi- dently do not realise this. The only case in the past six months where a conductor copied an order was immediately looked after by Bro. Welch. Brothers, keep after the only one "non" on the division until we line him up, and don't forget to send me the news. W. P. Gordon, Cert. 261, Fornfelt, Mo. Pine Bluff -Texarkana Division — Bro. J. D. Cross has gone to the Illinois Division. Bro. W. P. McLaughlin is back again after several weeks' illness. Several new Jobs recently put on this divi- sion, giving all the extra men a chance for regular work. Our division was touched very lightly by the "flu" and we are very thankful that there have not been any deaths among us. Boys, discourage conductors in handling train orders and do not fail to turn in your call when they take one at your station. If you hear a conductor taking a train order at another station notify that operator so he can get his call. We hope to soon elim- inate this menace entirely. If there Is a "non" or a "delinquent" with or near you line him up. The local chairman will send you all the blanks you can use. Notify him of anyone you can’t land. When you hear any news tell me. Bro. Miller has asked me for this assistance and we want to have a write-up each month. W. C. Balbridoe, Cert. 113. Tyler- Lufkin Division — Bro. J. H. Morris bid in "CG” Tyler and Bro. Peters the new position created there. Bro. Morgan, second "QN" Tyler, relieved by Bro. Riley on accodnt of illness. Bro. J. C. Warren and Mr. Bassetts are filling in the two new positions created there. Every- one keep behind Bassetts and make "QN" 100 per cent again. Bro. Satterfield, who bid in second "FT" Ft. Worth, was relieved by Bro. Ray on first Lufkin. Bro. I. D. Dodson, Division 88, spent a few days with us in January, and Bro. Mike Richard Sundayed recently in Mt. Pleasant. Mr. Gassoway, the manager there, promoted to train dispatcher, puts . Mt Pleasant on bulletin. A few non agents and one none operator, Mr. Griffin Chandler, down this way. Drop 'em a note, call 'em on the wire , drive this one hundred per cent home. "Dick," Cert 274. Seaboard Air Line Ry., Dlv. 28. Virginia Division — We had a fairly good attendance at our meeting in Portsmouth January 25th, and attended the "Billy” Sunday service In a delegation. Do your best to attend the next meeting, it will help you and others. Digitized by Google

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376 Tiie Railroad Telegrapher. Severed agents have suggested that we ask for a commission on all W. U. business instead of a commission on receipts. Would be glad to hear from you along this line. Will furnish you with a list of the few nons later on. Keep after them. Regret to learn that Local Chairman Moore has resigned, but wish him success in his neiy business. Some few of the boys are down with the '‘flu," but it is not as serious as last year. If you have not paid your dues attend to it today as the sixty days of grace has expired. I do not want to see your name on the dead list when Bro. Cumming sends it to me. Cert. 1750. Alabama Division — It is now Bro. E. F. Tatum at Weston. We have secured five applications so far this year and have only three or four nons left on this division. You all know who they are. Keep after them. Sister Smith, agent Louvale, relieved sev- eral weeks by Extra Griswold, who will soon be with us. Bro. Beecher, agent Collins, relieved by Bro. J. R. Tyler two weeks on account of sickness, and Bro. W. J. Benton, Pitts, by J. C. Crosby, who resigned a few years ago from Pitts agency. - Bro. Mulkey, Claxton, was off two days recently, leaving the office in charge of the clerk-operator. Local Chairman Joyner, Virginia Division, recently got out circular requesting a write- up from each division for this issue. This was a good suggestion as there is nb reason why every division should not be repre- sented each month. It would help consid- erably if some of the brothers would send some news items. One man Can hardly keep up with the entire division. H. L. Carter, Cert. 1423, Vidalia, Ga. N. Y.f N. H. & H. R. R., Dlv. 29. New London Sub-Division — The meeting held at Putnam, January 31, 1920, was a decided success, well attended and very enthusiastic. The unfavorable weather prevented a larger attendance. We extend a welcome to the .membership of the Midland and Providence Divisions in and around Putnam, and others who can make it convenient to attend. Our president was one of the three se- lected to represent the railroad brotherhoods in a personal conference with President Wil- son at the White House, February 18th. Bro. James Keefe, who died at St. Mary’s Hospital, Waterbury, Conn., January 31, 1920, was for many years on third New Lon- don Union Station, being unable to do any work since taken sick five years ago. Bro. Keefe had many friends who regret to learn of his death. Congressman Watson of Pennsylvania de- clares that more than $40,000,000 has been illegally collected through the income tax and other revenue sources, thus wrongfully tajcen from the taxpayers. As the money is on the treasury books as an asset he pro- poses to introduce a bill to return the over- payments to the rightful owners. Why not use it for a national educational Institution, using half for its construction and the bal- ance as an endowment, the interest to main- tain it and our children have the benefit of it. Is this not worth a thought? Bro. John N. Herbert, while visiting in New York state, was relieved on third West Tower, Midway, by Bro. Davis. Sister Allen is visiting relatives at Eagle- ville, Conn. Bro. E. M. Cox Is now with the traction company at Los Angeles, Cal., where he has located with his family. Local Chairman Bowler has appointed Bros. John F. Smith, first, and Edward G. Gulnac, second assistant local chairman, and myself as lii* secretary. This staff will, OQllectively and individually, do everything possible for the interests of the member- ship on this division. I am all ears, as the donkey said when he first saw his reflection in a mirror, lis- tening for those anticipated notes from Put- nam and vicinity. E. H. 3c riven, Cert 918. Providence. Division — Local Chairman Brady occupied the chair arid conducted the election at our meeting February 21st. Bro. Frank L. Fowler wap unanimously elected chief telegrapher, Bro. McCabe having declined the nomination. Bro. Moore was elected first and Bro. Web- ster second vice chief telegrapher, and Bro. Callis, secretary. These three held similar positions in local Division 35. Bro. Had- dock is now the sitting past chief teleg- rapher. The election of correspondent was put over until our March meeting. Past Chief Telegrapher Bro. Vanderbeek Installed the officers-elect. Bro. Fowler, the newly-elected chief, then took the chair and the routine business of the evening was taken up, last- ing until midnight. A telegram from Vice-President Ross at Rutland, Vt, was read expressing regrets as not being able to be present and extend- ing best wishes. We had as our guests General Chairman Handy, Secretary-Treasurer Tiger of New Haven, and Local Chairman Bowie? of th# New London Division, who made brief bat pointed addresses. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 377 Bro. Handy said it was the biggest and best meeting he had attended since he be- came general chairman. Bros. Farrow, Shepard and Eaton are on the sick list. Bro. Hopkins is recovering, and Bro. Farley is in the hospital with blood poisoning, being cared for by the B. A. and our charity fund. Bra W. R. Cronin of Baltis, Conn., was buried two weeks ago, and Bros. Vander- beek, McCabe and Call is were appointed to draw up a set of resolutions in this connec- tion. A motion to appoint a committee of three to provide social functions for the council was passed, but their names had not been •elected at the close of the session. Regular meetings will be held on the third Saturday of each month, as usual, and every member who can should be there. The suc- cess of the newly-elected officers will depend quite as much upon the support they get from the lay members as from their indi- vidual efforts. Brothers, do your part. Let us acquit ourselves like men. Let the old spirit of 35 live anew in the new Providence council. Cert. 181. Boston Division — On sick leave, Sister Robbins, Wareham, and Bros. Riley, Pierce, Hennsey, McCar- thy, South Braintree Crossover, and Walker, Braintree? Tower, Bro. Tool relieving latter. Bro. Baxter is back at Hyannis after a sick spell, and Bro. Bart. Curran is able to be out again. Meetings first Saturday monthly, 8 p. m.. Pilgrim Hall, 694 Washington street, Bos- ton. All brothers able should attend. Local Chairman Frances is doing his bit twenty-four hours of the day. Help him to get In the nons. South Braintree operators and towermen are very chesty over their bowling team. Your correspondent would like to meet some sturdy brothers with a view of teaching them bowling. Bro. Gardner, third South Braintree Junc- tion, has resigned to enter the grocery busi- ness. We wish him success. Let's make that tower and Chickering tower 100 per cent Charlie and Jimmy, get busy. Write your committee that you want one day off in thirty with pay. We welcome Bro. Guidmond back to Mid- dieboro after overseas service In the Signal Corps. Brothers, do not allow games of chance of any nature to be played in your tower or telegraph office during your hours of duty. It is claimed that the storm which com- menced at 2 a. m. February 5 was .one of the worst the railroads In New England have ever experienced. At South Braintree between 2,000 and 3,000 people were stalled for 12 hours with hardly food enough for 100. The towerman, yard crews and yardmasters worked from 16 to 24 hours at a stretch. There was only one man at each tower in South Braintree and twelve at Braintree. Freight brakemen and conductors had to be placed at differ- ent points to do towermen and operators* work and several freight conductors acted as trainmasters. We must stick together now. “United we stand, divided we fall." If you have not paid your dues kindly attend to this at once. Cert. 1656. D., L. & W. R. R., Div. 30. Buffalo Division — Brothers and sisters, we are now back un- der private management. On one or two previous occasions we have been almost as strongly organized as now, when a few of the more prominent members were dis- charged, striking fear into the hearts of the rest until they were afraid to acknowledge their membership. While there may be a possibility of such actions being again re- sorted to, remember that times have changed and if we firmly refuse to be In- timidated or to listen to Impossible arguments we now have an organization that can thor- oughly protect us if this should t happen. This does not mean, however, that we should not continue to work for a solid divi- sion. Every member must be on the alert and allow neither a “non” or a “delinquent” to remain in that class. Investigate every newcomer to your office or in any one near you. If pot up-to-date report the fact to your local chairman and continue your ac- tivities in that direction until his or her membership is completed. The O. R. T. is the only organization that can retain for us what we have won and has given us all the economic freedom we now enjoy. Past per- formances count and history shows that no railroad has ever given anything worth while to its employes until forced to do so. Be real men and women ; stand by the or- ganization back of you by doing your whole duty as loyal members and stay under Its protection and guidance. Bro. Pogorzella, clerk In chief dispatcher's, office, Buffalo, is noto recuperating in the Adirondacks from a recent serious opera- tion in the Moses Taylor Hospital at Scran- ton. and Sister Heineman, first Michigan Street Tower, Is recovering from an attack of pneumonia, but Assistant Chief Dispatch- er McLaughlin is still very ill. Bro. Ray Seeley, third Elmira Yard, has gone into the restaurant business at Owego. Sister Hewey was snowed in at Fargo during the recent storm. Digitized by Google

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378 The Railroad Telegrapher. Those of you around Buffalo who failed to attend the last meeting at the Hotel Broezel on February 18th missed a great talk by Bro. Morey of the N. Y. C. Lines. These live wire meetings should have more of a delegation present. You will enjoy the talks and information. They will be held hereafter at the Broezel on Seneca street the third Wednesday every month, and the meetings in Elmira the first Thursday in the month. Don't forget these dates. Cert. 838. Syracuse and Utica Division — Our old friend Bro. Billy Ryan is back on Marathon first. He was unable^ to find a home at Richfield Springs ahd was relieved of the agency there by Bro. M. M. Costello, first Whitney Point. Bro. V. A. Aldrich, agent Cedarville. spent a week recently with his family at Sher- burne. Bro. C. E. Griffin, agent Brisben, is back again after a long illness. Sister Excell and Bros. Churchill, agent Clayville. Hudson at Fulton, and Yaw man, first Syracuse Yard, have all been on the sick list recently. Notify Local Chairman Cooper of any ir- regularities existing in your respective ter- ritories so he can take care of them. General Superintendent Shephard has or- dered conductors to stop copying train or- ders at regular train order offices. Every instance of this kind should be reported promptly. Several cases were recently re- ported on the Utica Division, Conductor Congdon being the principal offender. Watch this, boys. It prevents you from being called. These conductors would not tolerate your taking their places if they could not be located. The general committee, composed of Bros. S. E. Anderson, Newark, N. J. ; M. M. Far- ley, Hallstead, Pa,; C. E. Hill, Atlanta. N. Y., and C. C. Cooper. Cortland, N. Y., met at the latter’s home February 11th, trans- acted its usual yearly business and took other action deemed advisable for the best interests of our membership, of which we will hear in due time. Bros. Anderson, Hill and Farley examined and audited our divi- sion recounts and found them accurate and correct and kept in a most satisfactory con- dition. Bro. Cooper’s annual reports were signed, affixed with the division seal and forwarded to the grand secretary and treas- urer for approval. Cert. 157. Morris and Essex Division — f The February meetings at Dover, N. J., were very well attended. Local Chairman Anderson was agreeably surprised by the members of this division presenting him with a leather brief case, fountain pen and a horn cane to express our gratitude for handling many Important cases during past year, freely using his own spare time to secure satisfactory adjustments. Bra Jas. J. Quinn, first West End Ber- gen Junction, relieved a few days by Bro. A Saile, Paterson. We are glad to see Bro. Wm. Keneally. agent Kingsland, out again after a month’s tussle with "flu" and pneumonia, also Bro. George F. Banghardt, Passaic ticket office; Bro. A. R. Trebilcock, agent Gladestone, and Bro. John Clay, passenger agent Boon- ton, after nearly two weeks' Blege. Bros. Bro. Jos. M. Sloan, extra relief train dis- patcher, Is doing fine work. Bro. E. L. Tiffany, wire ^chlef at "H," was a busy man during the storm season. Brothers, send me your notes before the 20th to Paterson station. 8. F. McCleart. Cert. 156. Brothers M. <& E . Division — I wish to acknowledge your kindness in the presentation of youry generous gifts at our Dover meeting, also for your loyalty and co-operation, but as the mill will, not grind with the water that has passed, let us press onward ever keeping in mind that what it worth doing at all is worth doing well. Our report shows at the beginning of 1920 that we may all take courage and by using Just a little more energy this year than, last we will make this the banner year. Kindly re- member that we are young, there is much work yet to be done, and that the road to success is not an easy one. But if we all do our best we will surprise durselves at the close of 1920. Samuel E. Anderson, L. C. Morris A Essex Division, Main Line — Local Chalriffan Anderson called the Dover meeting to order at 10 a. m. There was a big attendance, all the boys that were off came. Bro. McCauily gave a few -selections on the piano. Bro. Jack Dunn gave a song. We were* pleased to have Bro. Farley with us and hear his good reports. Our next meeting will be at Hoboken. Lookout for the notice and bring your up-to-date card (you can’t get in on your face), and bring in some of the few nons.. Bro. Anderson wishes to thank us for the presents we made him for his good work as local chairman, and we thank Bros. At- water and Tiffney for going to the trouble of getting the presents, a horn cane, a foun- tain pen and a hand case to carry the O. R. T. business in. We express our sympathy to Bro. Ander- son for the loss of his only sister, who died last week at Dover, N. J., also to Bro. Bd Barry, who has been off sick some time. Cert. 513. ( " i ^ Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 379 Missouri Pacific R. R., Div. 31. Colorado Division— Bro. Jones, at Ransom, is the only one who contributed any news this time. Let me •have your notes before the 20th of each month. I am 4he international boomer who carried a card in the Grand Division for two years and paid dues out of a $30 a month salary while with Uncle Sam during: our little fuss "over there.** Loyalty to your union means that you are assisting to bring victory. Do you put your unionism strictly on a dollar and cent basis? Wages and conditions are important, and your enjoyment of the comforts of life de- pend upon obtaining them. They will come only by your supporting those who are fight- ing your battles, and thus will be realized Labor's program f hr the liberation of Amer- ican workers from dominating Industrial autocrats. Military autocracy never died a natural death; neither will industrial autoc- racy. Somebody try to get the one more mem- ber we r>eed to make this division one hun- dred per cent A brother recently discharged, remarked that he should not have been discharged for sleeping on duty, because the dispatcher was an O. R. T. man. We need the assistance of the dispatchers, and this is one reason why so many roads will not allow their dis- patchers to belong to the O. R. T. We must not misconstrue the meaning of our obliga- tions, nor the extent of fraternal courte- sies. But stay on the Job during assigned hours, give the dispatchers a square deal and we will get the same in return. We have a balance on hand in the floral fund of $14.76 ; received by subscription, $36 ; paid out for the funeral of Bro. Barnett, $20.26. If anyone on the division was over- looked In the last collection, and feels so disposed, we would be glad to receive their offering any time. We hope we will be able to hold about $26 in this fund at all times, then we will have it when we need it and save a lot of bother on the part of some of the brothers who have to look after these collections. I start this with one dollar. Make your checks or money orders payable to R. H. Jones and mail them to him at Ransorp, Kan. Dispatcher Wright in the hospital some time with an attaok of double pneumonia, is improving. Bro. Shank has resigned at Crowley and is now hi the hardware business. Bro. CoHiss is on Wichita Division while his claim to Sheridan Lake agency is pend- ing. Bro. Barry of Has well spent his vacation in St LomJs. Bro. M. O. King has been reinstated and will soon return from his visit with friends and relatives in Southern California to second Ordway. Bro. Chadwick will shortly resume von Brownell, nights. The differences with the bonding company are being adjusted at St Louis by Bro. Mohler*s office. Bro. Parker was relieved by Bro. Meilicke at McCracken while oft several weeks with the “flu.** New members: C. W. Cougenhour and J. Bastion, Sheridan Lake; O. V. Rookstool and H. J. Wolf, Ordway; W. V. Hendricks, Has- well ; C. L. Waite, Brownell ; J. W. Bradley, Jr., Shields; Hugh Sanders, Otis; H. W. Drake, Leotl, and L. and Grace Hopkins, Nepesta. We are promised the ' support of every brother on the division in our effort to have regular meetings. “CM,” Cert 2746. Joplin Division — Local Chairman Rowe, sick for two weeks, relieved by Mrs. Rowe. Bro. H. - J. Stratton. Pittsburg second, had the “flu” ' a week, relieved by Bro. Clyde Rouse, who later relieved Bro. P. K. Lane, Rich Hill, several days. Bro. Vinson and Sister Marguerite Des- mond, Joplin, also oft with the ”flu,” re- lieved by Bro. Calender, Webb City, and Bro. G. R. Corwin by Winn, Santa Pe Itelay. Bro. G. R. Roberts gave up Mound City for Rich Hill second. Our new increase was allowed on last half of January pay check. Cert. 1790. Missouri Division — Br#. Brooks, second Neelyville, is in the hospital with smallpox. Bro. Burton, third Hoxie Yards, relieved by Bro. Richardson, owing to sickness in his family. Sorry to announce the death of Bro. and Mrs. Gunter’s little daughter at Annapolis. They have our sympathy. Bro. Coyne, agent Neelyville. is back after a trip West. Sister Marsh, Walnut Ridge, is visiting relatives in Montana, Bro. Hall relieving. Bro. C. H. Bailey is relieving Bro. Redwine, days Walnut Ridge, and Bro. Chas. Johnston, Vineland, is being relieved by Barnhart while acting as nurse to his sick ones at home. Bro. Carl Martin is back on first Wil- liamsville from the hospital, and W. A. Bean, who was stricken with the ”flu” there, was taken to his home in Caledonia. Bro. Austin is back on third L«esperance after two weeks* siege with the "flu,** and Bro. Bedford has resumed duty after a sick spell. Bro. Evens, second Mineral Point, was off recently, owing to the illness and death of his father-in-law. Cert. 1129. Digitized by Googk

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.380 The Railroad Telegrapher. White River Division — We are 89 per cent solid and all we need Is a little personal work and a good write-up in the journal each month to get to the top. It makes a fellow feel good to see a write-up from his home and other divisions and roads where he has worked, so let’s have some- thing from our division each month. Thanks to Bro. J. P. Young, Cotter Divi- sion office, for most of these items. I do • not have time to get all the news, having an agency with Just half enough help. Bro. Allen, Stotts City, visited in Ar- kansas; Bro. H. H. Green, Newark, in Mem- phis, and Bro. Young at Little Rock re- cently. Bro. W. Pharrls, Branson, was off a few days, looking after business interests. Bro. Burton, Hoberg, on sick list, relieved by "Bro. Campbell. We should have a regular meeting called and talk over our grievances. Let's hear from some of the other brothers next month. “ON,” Cert 1490. ' Order he will probably have a chance to get some "official" position. Supplement 21 authorized the company to furnish typewriters where their use was re- quirtd. Chaffee has now been furnished a Royal. Bro. Abernathie writes from Lynn Jet, Colo., that he likes the West and is getting along fine. Bro. R. A. Pe arson is a new member. Bro. Charlevllle relieved Bro. McCoy at Frenchman's Bayou a few days. Bro. Richter was relieved by Bro. Crocker two weeks on account of the sickness and death of his son. Bro. Richter and wife wish to thank the brothers and sisters who so thoughtfully remembered them in their sad bereavement, also for the beautiful norm* piece. They have our sincere sympathy in their loss. p • Bro. Sitner, third Cape Girardeau, was relieved by Bro. T. J. Hopkins several days on account of sickness. ••Hop.** Illinois Division— Off with the "flu" : Layne, second South Dupo, relieved by Bro. Rhodes, Jr.; Sister Brewer, by Miss Welsch ; Bro. Cartwright, by Poner King, who also relieved Bro. Suhre, Reily Lake, while his father was sick. Bro. McDaniels is in the hog and chicken business. Bro. Nicks invested in oil stock. In drill- ing for oil his company struck a rock and found gold. Brothers, watch your voting. If you have any representatives who fought labor unions, don't forget to hand them a package next election. "Nrr* Owl," Ford, HL St. Louis-San Francisco Ry., DIv. 32. River and Cape Division — Let's all get in our O. R. T. dues and M. B. D. assessments as soon as possible and make this a solid division. Comments have been printed in Thb Tblborapher for several months by cor- respondents from the several divisions in rer gard to eliminating the fraternal section of our Journal. For this reason I have not sent any items in recently. Of course, these items are not new to us, but perhaps some of our former brother telegraphers working for other roads would like to see them pub- lished in the Journal — would seem like get- ting a letter from some of the boys. A few of the brothers have written me and asked that a write-up of some kind be sent in each month. A few others say, "What’s the user* I would like to hear from the members on this division regarding this. It is rather amusing to note how the one non on this division is "kidding" himself in the belief that If he remains outside of our Baltimore & Ohio R. R„ DIv. 33. Ohio Division — A Joint Ohio-Indiana and Toledo Division meeting was held at the Grand Hotel, Cin- cinnati, Ohio, Saturday, January 21st, at 8 o’clock p. m., and Sunday, February 1st, at 2 o’clock p. m„ open to all agents and el- usive agents, regardless of whether they were members or not. The meetings were well attended. Some members who came from a long distance met many old friends and acquaintances. The Saturday evening meeting at Cincinnati was called to order by Local Chairman Stenger of the Toledo Divi- sion. Local Chairman Allison gave a talk on the Plumb Plan, and Local Chairmen Al- len, Donovan and Holmes gave short fraitrw on the affairs of their respective divisions. Bro. "Ollie" Marsh was generously ap- plauded when introduced as assistant gen- eral chairman of Division 22. General Secretary-Treasurer Shaffer gave a satisfactory resume of the membership and the financial condition of Division 22. the to- tal membership January 1st being 24.029. General Chairman Lewis gave an Inter- esting and instructive talk on the work of the general committee in connection with In- terpretation No. 8. The Sunday afternoon meeting, February 1st, was practically a repetition of the one the night before. About forty members attended the CbfiU- cothe, Ohio, meeting on February 2nd. Some from Toledo Division, B. & O. and the Nor- folk and Western Railroad also being pres- ent, Including Local Chairman Mantle, S&- oto Division, N. & W. The meeting was called to order at 2 p. m. by Local Chairman Allison, Bro. Harsh act- ing as secretary. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. •w-3- 381 General Chairman Lewis explained the gen- eral situation since issuance of Supplements 10 and 11 and Interpretation No. 8, closing his remarks by asking the employes to act as one man in the coming battles for right and recognition in the labor field. General Secretary and Treasurer Shaffer duplicated his Cincinnati speech, giving the boys very valuable information as to the financial situation, membership and other matters of Interest to the members of Divi- sion 88. Chairman Allison then explained that ac- tion relative to telephone violations was be- ing held up awaiting result of the protest of President Manion and Bro. Shaffer spoke of the action to be taken on this question by General Chairman Burke of the Con- ductors. JBro. T. K. Stephenson, of the Ohio Divi- sion, spoke on the Plumb Plan. He has been active in the organization work of the league in this territory and was busy signing up members in it after the meeting. The local officers were much gratified at the large turnout, and plan to have another meeting soon with a little lunch on the side to keep the boys from going home hungry. The Indiana and Toledo Division boys got their back pay on account of Interpretation No. 8 early in February, and the Ohio Divi- sion is next in line. This interpretation was based on actual Sunday work performed in 1818, even the hours being counted. If you came to work on Sunday and was relieved after working an hour or two you were given credit for that time and not for the entire day. Under the circumstances, the same in- crease could not be applied to all. W. L. A. Indiana Division — Owing to the American Federation of Labor creating its own machinery for dis- pensing political information, the Working- men’s Political Information Bureau founded by ex-President Perham has ceased to exist. All money subscribed to the maintenance of the Bureau has been refunded, and with the “Power and prestige bound to be evident" in the undertaking of the Federation, Bro. Perham has requested its officers that the action be permanent. The amount remitted for the Division Fund 115.05 Including that refunded by the Bu- reau, is in the hands of the local chairman, and that remaining after paying for the pub- lication of seniority lists will be retained there pending advice of the membership. A few persons have not remitted, and to make the deal even, no reduction Is made in the subscription asked for, as the surplus will balance a future need, and those wishing seniority lists should send for them at once. Cakes are hot in tiie shape of a newly added clause to the railroad bill, another 'freak” is running at large in Congress which would prohibit a change in wages for six months after the return of the roads to private control. If that bunch of politicians were only partly as much concerned with the good of the public as they are with the protection of special privilege, working people would be better fed, could live like Americans should, and the names of representatives would be more widely respected. The news dispatches de- clare that regardless of all the opposition to this new bill which totally ignores the Constitution of the United States, the lead- ers declare It will be made a law in short order. Part of the bill forbids any member of the proposed wage board that will con- sider grievances under private control, to be a member of any * union. It's the typical product of a bunch of men called representa- tives, though I have never satisfied myself regarding just who they represent. If all these things materialize at a time when we should be going forward instead of back- ward, the next national campaign will be one in which the candidates will necessarily have to declare themselves in favor of the Constitution of the United States, or be de- feated. The greatest significance is attached to the February bulletin of the division operator, in regard to the use of the telephone. No one except staff officers are to be allowed the use of instruments, and this announcement is gravely a matter of safety. The bulletin is the result of about four years complaint and strict adherence is demanded by the Or- der. Report any violation at once to the local chairman. Drv. Cor. Illinois Division — Bro. Summers, agent at Claremont, has our sincere sympathy, owing to the sudden death of his wife; also to Bro. Riley, Casey- ville second, account of the death of his brother-in-law at Wheatland, Ind., and Bro. Johnson, agent at Lois, who lost his wife some time ago. Bro. Price, Vincennes first, off on account of sickness, relieved by Bro. Worley, and Bro. Williams, Springfield second, by Sister Greathouse. Bro. Weshensky is relieving Bro. Henry, Springfield first, on a trip to California. Sister Edmiston, who relieved Bro. Wright, Bridgeport first, several weeks, owing to the serious illness of his aged mother, later re- lieved Local Cha4rman Allen, Taylorville firet, while attending meetings at Flora. Tay- lorvMte and Cincinnati, and Bro. White re- lieved Local Chairman Holmes, Sandoval first, while he attended them. TZmse were twenty- three attended the Flora, and seventeen the Taylorville meeting. None of the brothers beyond Springfield at- tended the latter. Digitized by Google

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382 The Railroad Telegrapher. General Chairman Lewis, of Baltimore, Md., the speaker at these meetings, was well pleased with the interest shown by the mem- bers of our division. Remember, “No Cards, No Favors Cert. 2941. Chicago Division — There was a fair attendance the evening of February 12th, at the Garrett City Hall meeting in spite of a number being ofT with the flu. General Chairman Lewis and Local Chairman Eiler addressed us. We hope to have these meetings frequently to enable the boys to get together and make known their suggestions for betterment of the Order. Bro. Forshey is back, relieved by R. W. Miller from Bascom ; also Bro. Rhinehold, at Kimmell, after several weeks’ critical ill- ness, and Bro. C. J. Spencer, after several days' lay off. Bro. Thompson was relieved by Bro. Foley, on first Fostoria, with Miller, on third, and Baldwin, on second, due to both myself and Bro. Thompson being sick several days. Bro. John Eyler, second "J” Tower, had to take care of his family himself when they were all down sick, being unable to procure a nurse. Bro. Hedstrom Is now working for the Jassmere Service Station in Orange, Cal. Bro. Ohaver gave me a few notes or we would not have had any write-up this month. Send me a few lines for next Journal. Cert. 2068. Cleveland Division — Many of our brothers and sisters have been off sick recently, including Bros. Cline, Gray, Bennett, Hillyer and Miller, who have re- covered. Bro. Rogers is slowly improving, also Bro. McCormick, at Cleveland. Sister Speer is still sick. It is Impossible to get relief to visit them, those who are situated so they can, should do so. Bro. Carnahan, as he started for work one night recently, fell and, broke his leg in two places. We expect to hold a joint meeting at Cleve- land and Massillon shortly. We hope to have Bro. Rawlins, General Chairman Lewis and other able men of thp organization with us. You will be advised as to date *and place. * Flower Fund. Collected in small amounts by Bro. Rogers and myself at time of Mrs. Davis' death $ 6.50 As per my request In recent circular letter, the following contribution was reeefved 2 9.00 Total receipts to Feb. 20, 1920 15.50 Total paid out to Feb. 20 10.00 Cash on hand 5.50 $15.50 All who can, contribute to this fund. We bought flowers for Bro. Hull’s daughter, no bill yet rendered. The price of flowers, like everything else, has increased from what we could get a year ago for $5 to $7 or $8. Get that new card for 1920. Bro. Baul has gone to New York. We wish him success in his new field of industry. The long contested cases of Everett and Brecksville have been settled and Our young sisters will receive over one thousand dol- lars in back pay, as the positions were cut to the extreme limit when wires were taken out Good argument when after the cons, showing that the O. R. T. is A-l. Visit the sick members and uphold the or- ganization. W. A. McCabe, Cert 705. Newcastle Division — Influenza prevalent over the entire divi- sion, quite a number of brothers on the sick list making it necessary for numerous cases of doubling. Bro. Shrimplin, third Newton Falls, re- signed, relieved by Mosler. Bro. Chas. Maynard, Chardon, O.. writes that Bro. W. H. Kehres, for years with the B. Sc O., not shown on seniority list hi* position not being scheduled, working during navigation season at rail and *lake office. West Falrport, O., suffering recently with carbuncles, has left PainesvitfS hospital much improved. Local Chairman McBride and wife are on their honeymoon South. Congratulations and best wishes. New seniority lists distributed has mem- bership stars affixed to all except 11, making the division within a small fraction of 90 per cent; erase line 97, resigned. Try and land the few nons left If unable to do feo take up with the proper official and have him try his hand. Floral fund contributions coming in slow. Give this your Immediate attention. Send your voluntary subscription to Bro. V. P. McLaughlin, Newton Falls, O. Bro. Weinman has returned to **XN” Tower from a two weeks’ enjoyable trip East Please send me news of this nature or any other that should be In The Telegrapher. Cert. 19W. ConnellsvQle Division — Bro. T. Bevington, extra, is now in "DS* Pittsburgh, and Bro. Chas. Brady, Johns town, in California. Mt. Braddock and all three tricks are In operation again. B. F. Stone, a former tfbther, one of the oldest and best known telegraphers on thfif division, died recently of a complication of diseases, leaving a host of warm friends. A deVage of encouraging letters was the result of a circular letter recently sent out to the members on the division. Thanks fbr prompt responses. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 383 Bro. Hauger, Rock wood, has recovered from an attack of the “flu.” Bro. Enold, Greene Junction, proposes buying a shoe repairing machine with the back pay coming to him under Interpreta- tion No. 8. A few notes now and then from members would be a great help to the correspondent in satisfying the many who insist that each month’s journal should have a write-up from the division. Cert. 142, Baltimore Division— We feel honored that President Manion was one of the three selected to meet Presi- dent Wilson during the recent negotiations in Washington. A larger crowd attended and more enthu- siasm was shown at the meetings held in Baltimore, February 14th. Bro. E. H. Shrewbridge called attention to the need of using discretion in the practical application of “No card, no favors Bro. F. V. Grimes recently rehearsed his own elopement and Is now ready for the real trip as soon as he recovers from an at- tack of mumps. H. D. Spurier, reinstated, is expected to join promptly. .Bro. Bob Powers trapped five skunks and a red fox within three weeks. Bro. Lynn and family have entirely recov- ered from recent illness. Trainmen insist on doing operators' work on the telephone and article 22, present agreement, is being ignored by the company. With this issue I am asking that another correspondent be appointed, and thank those who have favored me from time to time with notes. W. S. Colvin. Chicago 6. Eastern III. R. R., Div. 34. A very successful meeting 'was held in Chi- cago Heights, Sunday, February 15th, about 35 present ’at the afternoon gathering. General Chairman Skiles explained In de- tail our new schedule, several rules of which have been changed, now being printed and will soon be sent to the members. Several brothers were enlightened regarding articles which will materially benefit their pay vouchers. Federal Manager Jackson has announced that employes in continuous service on this road from five to ten years, March 1, 1920, will be furnished an annual system pass; from ten to fifteen years, a system annual Pass for himself and wife ; over fifteen years, a system annual pass for himself, wife and minor dependent children. Terrs Haute District — Bro. Jelly, O. C. Junction third, on Bick list relieved by W. H. Rush, recently dis- charged from the U. 8. Navy, who promises his application joon. * Bro. R. L. Lloyd, Becond O. C. Junction, was recently married. Congratulations and best wishes to himself and bride. Bro. E. J. Mercer succeeds Bro. J. El Ken- nedy, third Atherton, as assistant local chair- man. Send him your notes when it is more convenient to do so than to me. P. ES. H. # Illinois Division?— Bro. Cauble on second Findlay Junction, Bro. J. D. Ferguson off with 44flu” ; Bros. Wil- son and Cauble, Findlay Junction, doubled night of February 7th, sickness in Bro. Dowdy's family. ® Bro. Blackwell on second Salem dispatch- ers' office, Bro. Wooley third 44GO," Bro. Goodman second W. V. Tower. Bro. McClure, third Mt. Vernon, had his dwelling and household goods destroyed re- cently by fire. Bro. Wellman, “OW" Salem, was a recent “SX” Tower visitor. When at the polls in November vote for the man who you are sure will stand for your rights. Now is the time for all union men to work to hold what they have gotten and get more than is justly due them. Brothers, please Bend me*a few items each month if you care to see any write-up. L. E. Rsqbnold, Cert. 886. Illinois Central R. R.r Div. 36. St. Louis Division— Boys, I have been asked to give a write-up for t{iis division. Will appreciate all the news you can send me. We recently received our back pay. We now have three new tricks at Coulter- *ville Tower ; Bro. F. C. Terry on second, Bro. L. H. Triglaff on third, first pending bulle- tin ; Bro. Ballengee having gone to first New Athens. - , Quite a number are on the sick list, mak- ing plenty of work for the extras, who we should see lined up now. Bro. Kirk relieved Bro. Morris, second “NY” Centralia, ten days on account of sick- ness ; Bro. Ragsdale, second Branch, relieved by Bro. Cerny several days, and Bro. Walker, second Taraaroa, is ill with the 44flu.” Bra Turner, second Christopher, was off ten days on account of his wife and child coming down with the “flu” while visiting relatives in Jonesboro. Bro. O. H. Thomas, first 44NY” Centralia, recently lost his wife with the 44flu.” The brothers all extend their sympathy to him and the relatives. Sister Blanche Virgin relieved Bro. J. R. Virgin on first New Athens when he went to third 44DD” Carbondale. Bro. D. R. Crawshaw, Makanda, has been supplying all the boys with meat the past month, as he has turned out to be a great hunter and brought in a big haul of game. Digitized by Google

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384 Thb Railroad Telegrapher' Remember our motto, “No card, no favors” and stay 100 per cent. J. C. Kirk, Cert. 1606. Illinois Division — In the February Telegrapher an article appeared In regard to conductors using the telephones. This should be taken up as a grievance with the proper officials and pushed until the practice is stopped. Bro. M. J. O’Donnell, Leverette Jet., sfck for a month with “flu” and appendicitis, has gone to Effingham to recuperate. Local Chairman Kile was in Champaign and Chicago recently. Bro. Davis took a trip to St Louis, February 16th. Bro. Murphy went to Indianapolis to see his wife, who was hurt by falling on the ice. Bros. Deimer, “X” office ; Rickards and Watson of “KY” played havoc with the rab- bits around Otto during the hunting season, bagging about a hundred in two trips. Bros. Buckley, Jurgeliet, C&stle, Kimmel and McNamara, at “X,” are raising onions and have them every day at noon. Those boys should gain *strength rapidly. Bro. Smith is working bankers’ hours — 10 a. m. to 6 p. m. Bro. Miller relieved Bro. Roy Bent, first Areola, a few days. Bro. McNabney is expected back in April. He was advised to seek a better climate af- ter he returned from the navy last fall. Boys, ~if you know anything of general Interest, let me have it Thanks to •Bro. Moore, Leverette Jet., and. Bro. Deimer, “X” Chicago, for their help. D. C. T., Cert 1497. Pere Marquette R. R.f Div. 39. Members Division 39 : Our agreement has been signed up and the schedule sent to the printers. You should soon have your copy. Many positions have been added, and as fast as new ones are cre- ated they also will come under our jurisdic- tion. There are forty-five positions that the railroads officials have declined to include in the agreement, and appeals have been filed with the proper tribunal. Study the new schedule carefully ; live up to the letter of it and see to it that your neighbor does also. An eight-hour day has been secured. Do a good day’s work and stop when your hours are up ; unless to pro- tect the railroads you should remain longer, in which case render overtime slips. We should now see to it that those occu- pying scheduled positions carry membership. Do not hesitate to call to their attention that they are enjoying benefits your money is paying for. When a new man comes to your station, ask if he has a card. If a member of another division, get his certifi- cate and division number, forwarding them to Bro. Neff. If not a member, invite him to join. Do this also when you hear a new man working a job. You are thus protect- ing yourself. Let our slogan be “A member for every Job.” You can do much to bring this about, and Heaven helps men who help themselves. Are you a member of the Plumb Plan League and receive a copy of “Labor”? If not, you can learn much and will be repaid many times for the investment. Send a dol- lar to the Plumb Plan League, Munsey Bldg., Washington, D. C.f which makes you a mem- ber. To members on Chicago Division : Bro. Hatsorz has resigned as local chairman and Bro. G. D. Mar sac has been requested to act as an assistant until other arrangements are made, when you will be advised. With best wishes for a continuance of progress, I am. Yours fraternally, R. M. Burr, General Chairman. Port Huron-Grand Rapids Divisions— It is with deepest regret that we report the death of Sister Sarah Himebaugh, agent Smyrna, on Feb. 2nd, after a short illness, also the death of the wife of Bro. L. L. Wat- son, local chairman, for Chicago Division, and the wife of our loyal dispatcher on the G. R. Division, Mr. Paul Wougdka. A floral contribution was forwarded each for the oc- casion and the bereaved relatives have the sympathy of all. Bro. Rowe, acting as cashier since the consolidation of P. M.-G. R. I. at Big Rapids, resumed his . former position of agent for the Pere Marquette at that point March 1st, each road again maintaining separate offices as before Government gontrol. It was very gratifying the way the dues came in for the current term, showing that the spirit of fraternalism Is still aglow with the membership. Our annual report Just completed shows a very good percentage over last year. The continued co-operation and same assistance you gave us in the past will be appreciated for the ensuing year. We still have a couple of nons , one on first “BO,” the other on first “GT.” The latter keeps promising to be with us when financial conditions permit, while the former states very plainly that the best job he ever had was lost through neglect of the O. R. T., probably, better translated, lost through his inability to live up to the standards pf or- ganized labor as set forth by this organ- ization ; therefore he evidently should be pitied more than censured, as they say Ig- norance is bliss, and it’s hard to teach old dogs new tricks. C. P. N„ Cert 224. Toledo- Saginaw Division — Several operators have had to double re- cently on account of the “flu” and other sickness, and no extra operators available Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Teleorapher. 385 Some third tricks are being closed, partly solid through the ef- forts of Bro. Cameron, second trick Mc- Grew. General Chairman Burr called recently on Bros. “GO/' “RU,” “BD” and “BA.” Call again. We are all very pleased with the good work our committee is doing. Several on the Toledo-Ludington and Grand Rapids-Port Huron Divisions are off on account of sickness. This is my first offense. If you dont pinch me this time perhaps I will try again. Let u» hear from the boys along the line. Cert. 855. Boston & Maine R. R., Div. 41. Terminal Notes — Bro. F. L. Wheeler had a very interesting experience recently picking up strange sig- nals on the wireless plant at his home in Boston. He had been picking up the signal “V” for some time, now “Punch” knows that “V” means test, but he couldn’t find anyone who wanted to test He claims it was the strangest sending he ever heard, and finally came to the conclusion it was Mars, Venus or some of the stars trying to signal mother earth. While strolling around Boston one day **Punch” wandered Into the Eastern Radio Institute. The chief kindly consented to sh6w him around the plant. As they came to one of the instruments the chief “tuned up” and signaled “V” ‘several times, the same strange, unearthly sounding "V" that “Punch” had picked up on his wireless. He knew then where the strange signals came from. Bro. Fred Hyde, Tower E, bid in second Tower C temporary. H. C. Woodiil, first at C, who is serving in the Massachusetts Leg- islature, has been appointed chairman of the committee on cities of the Legislature, a member of *the street railway committee, as well as one of the monitors of the House. We are ready to take your application for Division 41 any time, “Harry.” * Bro. Roger Pine has given up his rights to second Lowell Tower and will remain on the terminal, even though the air does not agree with him. . Bro. Leon H. Whitehouse, first trick direc- tor Tower A, who has been on the sick list with blood poisoning, took a short vacation in January. J. D. Tyter, general superintendent B. ft M., has retired from the service on account of ill health, and together with Mrs. Tyter, and his daughter, Miss Marie, has left for Los Angeles, California, where he hopes to regain his strength. C. E. Lee, former general superintendent B. & M., and an old-time “op,” is with War- ren Kenall, also an old-time “op,” at the Railroad Administration office, Washington, D. C. Editor Bro. Rawlins advises that owing to Government restrictions, limiting the slae of The Telegrapher, he has been obliged to discontinue printing In the fraternal col- umns all “Assignments,” “In Memoriams,” “Cards of Thanks” and “Vacations.” Cert. 406. Erie Railroad Div. 42. New York Division — It was with deep regret that we all learned of the death of Bro. T. S. Kelly, assistant general chairman and local chair- man of this New York Division. It is a sad blow to his family and to his co-workers. He was held In the highest esteem by all who knew him. We all owe Bro. Kelly a great debt of gratitude for the excellent work he has done since becoming a member of the general committee. His whole heart was bound up in the task of Improving conditions for his constituents, for whom he labored day and night and brought about excellent results. In all of his dealings he took the side of justice and fairness and stood fearlessly by his claims. No member of the committee has ever given better service. We who have been so closely associated with him for years are in a posi- tion to judge and nothing but good can be said of his work. The present condition of Digitized by VjOO^lC

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386 Thb Railroad Telegrapher. this New York Division is excellent testi- mony of his capability. The loss of this loyal brother and friend was a very Bad blow to me. It Is gratifying to know that so many members were able to pay their last respects to his memory, in attendance at his home at his burial. I deeply regret my inability to attend, my entire family be- ing down with the "flu," and it was utterly impossible for me to get away. In order that we might lend all possible assistance in providing for Bro. Kelly’s widow we took up with Superintendent Kelly her assignment to Bro. Kelly’s position as •agent at Piermont, the agents and operators of that territory signifying their willingness to waive all claims to the position. Super- intendent Kelly readily and willingly agreed to "this. I have received several letters from Sister Kelly, expressing her hearty appre- ciation of this act of loyalty and good fel- lowship. Our sincere sympathy Is extended to her, with our assurance that we stand ready to assist her in any way. E. J. Hesser, General Chairman. Can. Nat’l. Ry’s. Western Lines, Div. 43. Central Division — Weather conditions have been very severe throughout this district during the past month, registering from 46 to 66 below for days at a time, and It has only been owing to the excellent condition in which our fine power is kept that traffic has been maintained at close to a normal figure. Be- ing so far north, only 180 miles from James’ Bay, one is sometimes forced to wonder how railroad operations are carried on at all, at times, but working conditions have reached a point where traffic runs along so smoothly that a train dispatcher hardly realized that it's anything but summer weather, until he gets through his eight hours’ work and starts home to stoke up the furnace. On December 16th, while Dispatcher Bro. G. A. Smith was on his way home after 16k, in crossing an arm of the small lake fell through an air hole, sinking out of sight, but was fished out by Dispatcher Bro. Mc- Kelvie, whose timely arrival, no doubt, saved our local chairman’s life. Bro. McKelvie spent Christmas holidays in Winnipeg. Bro. Brown, recently married at Jackson- boro, and bride spent their honeymoon on the Atlantic Coast. Bro. McIntosh, while looking over his promising "gold claim," recently met a pack of timber wolves, and bringing his trusty rifle into action brought down four good specimens, which he brought back to his sta- tion as souvenirs. Bro. Isaac Lucas has returned to Ameson' after barrelling and shipping over 2400 bar- rels of apples from his orchard near Nlag- aga. * Every office, from O’Brien to Armstrong, 498 miles, is manned by an O. R. T. mem- ber, so it will probably not be necessaiy to send any reminders to them to pay their 1920 dues. • Brothers, keep your records clear and yoa will experience pleasant thrills instead of creepy "chills." Jumbo, Cert 1886, Cochrane, Ont Pacific Division — We had the best meeting at Kamloops, B. C., in the basement of Bradley’s poo! room, January 21st, with the largest attend- ance ever held at that point Local Chairman Hughes had just returned from Winnipeg with a bunch of notes which he read to the boys. He also explained the stand our general committee has taken in regard to negotiations In connection with our next schedule. Bros. Robillard, KJs&U, Shavor, Dodman, Fallows, Hacking. Mc- Leod, Howard, Tompson and Dispatcher! Robinson, FranscJsco, Whittley and myself were the other members in attendance. Wish some of the brothers from the Blast End would try and get in to our meetings. It is now Bro. H. E. Squibb, agent “BD." Bro. W. Pickering, relieved on second there by T. Ryan, bid in relief agent, F. J. Moe- graves the work train on Port Mann Sub. and C. L. McGuiness, second Boston Bar. Bro. J. G. Anderson, lineman there, is ar- ranging a grizzly bear hunt for this coming spring. Brothers, don’t forget your spurs, as some of you may have to take to the tall timbers. Operators at Lucerne doubled while Agent Fraser was sick. Bro. C. Z. Nichols has our sympathy in the recent death of his father. Chief Dispatcher Crane relieved trainmas- ter at Lucerne a few day*. The new wires are now working as far as Ashcroft A. L. Croutch, Cert. M. Central of Georgia R.^R., DIv.«46. Southwestern Division — ^ With deep regret and sorrow we report the death of Bro. D. R. Warren, extra dis- patcher Macon, . February 12th, of a leaking heart and a severe case of "flu.” He came to this division September, 1911, and baa always been a worthy member. To know him was to like him. He leaves a host of friends among the employes of this divi- sion, who keenly feel his loss. We extend our heartfelt and fraternal sympathy to tbs bereaved widow and family.^ A floral offer- ing was sent as a memento of our effectfan- ate regard. - We need our Order as never before to represent us, so be sure that your dues paid. Digitized by Googk

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The Railboad Telegbapheb. 387 Some good brother please help Bro. J. O. Morris, Floralla, to decide which he wants, Cuthburt or Smithville second. We hear he Is oldest bidder on both. Bro. Jones bumped Bro. Sears from Byron agency. "FN,” Cert. 208. Terminal R. R. Assn., St. Louis, Div. 47. Bro. Miller bid in first "BS,” vice Bro. Browne to second ”Q” Tower. Mr. Hlll- meyer, second "BS.” who bid in first "Z” Tower l, promises to file his application soon. , Bro. Taylor, second West .Approach, visited his mother in Illinois a few days the first half of February. Bro. Rice, first “US/’ sick a few days, was relieved by Bro. Temple of "UD,” and Bro* Joe Candy, Tower “One,” was off “ten days on account of sickness in his family. Bro. Hartley, relief man, took third levers “SH” pending bulletin. Bro. "Bill” Smith, relief man, has a new Ford, and Bro. Geo. Temple, "UD" relay, a new Chevrolet Look out, girls. Remember, boys, “No card , no favors ” W. P. Daugherty, Cert 7, 1732 Dollman Street. Denver & Rio Grande R. R., Div. 49. First Division — January 27th the division was shocked to learn of the death of Bro. L. Sutton, agent at Buttes prior to his death. Interment was held at Bear Canon cemetery, near Sedalla, Colo. Among the large number of friends attending were representatives from Divi- sions 49 and 61 of the O. R. T. A personal contribution from the First Division teleg- raphers and their friends, which was at first intended for a floral tribute, was given to the wife (a check for $100.25), which was received with heartfelt thanks. On February 3rd Bro. F. L. Reynolds was suddenly taken from us, due to pneumonia. Up until a short time before his death Bro. Reynolds had served us for six years as our local chairman, having just recently been promoted to extra dispatcher. Short funeral services were conducted by the Masonic lodge at Pueblo, February 7th, and the re- mains, in charge of General Chairman Compton, were taken to Wallace, N. Y., Bro. Reynolds' old home, for interment. On account of the resignation of Bro. Reynolds as local chairman shortly before his sudden death, an election is now being held to fill the unexpired term, Bro. F. C. Smith of Pueblo and yours truly being the candidates. Sister Lewis of Castle Rook is on leave of absence owing to the serious illness of her mother in Denver. Bro. and Mrs. Challis and Bro. Pringle of Texas Greek, the only ones who escaped the "flu,” have been kept t busy night and day assisting those in need. Bro. Jenkins, "DN” Denver, in Sallda hospital several weeks, is improving. His son, Bro. Jenkins, is relieving him. We need a little better support for the Ladles’ Auxiliary. Sister Lula Challis of Texas Creek is general secretary and treas- urer and has plenty of application blanks. F. B. Rose, Asst. Local Chairman. Second Division and Junction Lines — We are glad to see Bro. Crutchfield back at New Castle agency after being laid up in Salida Hospital for some time; also Bro. Powell on the job again after & siege with the ”flu.” Bro. Taylor, second Eagle, relieved Bro. Guire, first Minturn, while he was in Den- ver handling grievances. ' Bro. Meek, second New Castle, has bought a home there. Bro. Col wick, operator and cashier Rifle, has gone to the U. P., relieved by H. G. Polk from the N. C. & St. L. in Kentucky. Bro. Smith, second "S,” relieved by Bro. Knote, First Division, is dispatching at Pueblo. Boys, watch for any “nons” who show up, and don’t forget to touch up that one at Clifton. Cert. 100. Fourth Division — Bro. Brewer, second Durango, bid in An- tonito second, vice Bro. P. J. LeDain, now at Osier; Sister Jacks bid in Ch&ma sec- ond, and Bro. T. Looney, Dulce. / It is now Bro. H. Gilbert, extrA Monero. Cert. 219. Southern Pacific Ry., Div. 53. Portland Division— Bro. C. ' O. Still, back from General Hos- pital, San Francisco, having successfully re- covered from a minor operation on his throat, relieved Bro. Know, second "JN,” account of sickness ; Bro. Owens, from the N. P., is relieving Bro. Grivey on third, and Bro. Cober, second “DN,” is relieving Bro. Cornelius on agency. Bro. Brunken is out now on crutches, *but Is not able to work. Bro. C. A. Phillips, third Salem, on sick list several days, relieved by Bro. Hinshaw. There is some talk of making Blair a straight yard office, opening up Mapleton on Coos line as a telegraph office and making it a turn station for locals instead of run- ning to Marshfield. Thanks to Bros. Still, Clark and Roan for Items. Someone pl#aee send soma notes from Wsst Side. Get after the few "nons,” be loyal to the Order and we will soon be "Plumb” 100 per cent. RI, ”Bj” Cert. ISO'S. Digitized by Google

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388 The Railroad Telegrapher. Western Division — Bro. Earl Smith, agent Sulsum, has traded positions with Bro. F. J. Stevens of Carlin, Nevada. Bro. Rouse is dispatching on the hill. Bro. Hoell is back at Davis from a trip East. Bro. Reeves relieved Agent Boldt at St. Helena daring his recent illness. Bro. Hargis relieved Bro. Jacobson, agent Bethany, while in the hospital with the “flu,” and Bro. Parker relieved Bro. Jack Kay while he bad a bad case of it. Bro. Markee, who relieved Bro. Koppikus at Oakville and Bro. Falls at Antioch, went to Oregon and brought back a bride. Con- gratulations are in order. Send $25 to $100 to the Central National Bank, Oakland, Cal., for five to twenty shares of stock In the “Fraternal Co-opera- tive Mercantile Company of California.” The store Is owned and controlled by the rail- road unions exclusively. Each organization has one director, 18 directors in all. When in Oakland, call at the store. W. M. F. Coast Division — Bro. Siler relieved by Bro. C. G. Evans on account of sickness. Bro. Kinady, Oceano, off six months on account of sickness, Bro. Fischej* relieving. Bro. Merrill on committee work, relieved by Bro. Topham. Bro. Shandy is back at Capitola after his trip to Kansas City, etc. Bro. Smith, third Paso Robles, has trans- ferred to Stockton Division. Bro. M. Walsh, second King City, traded with a brother on the Shasta Division. C*rt. 1876. Stockton District — I take great pleasure in introducing Bro. James. Our seniority list shows but four nons. “No card, no favors” Bro. Coveney resigned Lodi agency to go into brokerage business. Bro. Hickerson is back with us, relieving on second Los Banos. Bro. Sheldon, Dos Palos, visited friends near Aoampo recently. Over 50 per cent of our members took out yearly cards. Any who may have over- looked this very important detail should at- tend to it Without further delay. The longer you put it off the worse for you and the rest of us. Brothers on Brighton District, East Side and Oakdale branch, drop me a bit of news before fife KFth of each month. “DF,” Cert 624. Sacramento Division — Bro. Frank Duescher. our ex-local chair- man, on six months’ leave of absence from Blue Canon, is rapidly recovering from a recent very serious operation in Chicago. Bro. F. L. Rector is back on second Truckee after two weeks’ illness. Bra C. C. McAdow, third there, has returned after a month’s visit with relatives In Missouri, and Bro. Munson is back at Champion from a visit with friends in Sacramento. Bro. Kendrick, enroute to Smart, visited friends at Truckee. Sister Warren, first Lake View, has re- signed to marry Fireman W. J. McGee. Bro. Jim Corbett is dispatching on third at Sacramento. We are indebted for most of our local items to Bro. Rabom, first Truckee, recently transferred from Salt Lake Division. Cbst. 1215. Los Angeles Division — Bro. Cambridge, third Saugus, taken sud- denly ill, relieved temporarily by Hinkle, closing third Chatsworth. later filled by Bro. Cohoe, formerly with the Postal, who re- lieved Bro. E. W. K&lies on second owing to the serious illness of his mother in Indiana, and was relieved on third by Operator Good- son. Bro. Haworth, succeeded by Bra Jensen at Duarte, relieved Bro. E. L. Dort, agent Burbank, who with his entire family were on the sick list. Bro. Gentry relieved J. R. Blake at Car- pinteria, who is now with the Standard Oil Co. at NewhalL Bro. O. U. Hampton, who relieved Bro. C. R. Kays, second El Centro, while he was getting married, also relieved Bro. J. A Phegley, Dos AJ&mitos, on account of the death of his father, an old-time telegrapher, who passed away at Redlands, Jan. 26th. Bro. Phegley has our sympathy. Bros. Hall and Baumgardner, respectively, opened up third and second at Araz Junction. Bros. Hartsfield and Geer doubled reoently at Amos when Bro. Butler of second was called to Chino on account of the death his brother. These brothers have trapped about 100 furs this season. Bro. Culley, agent Ogilby, was in Lte Angeles a few days recently on account st the sickness of his wife, relieved by Bra Frew. Bros. Schwartz, Phegley and Hampton thoughtfully contributed to the foregoing E. L. Burroughs, Cert 164. San Joaquin District — At the request of Local Chairman Caitt 1 have taken the job as local correspondent All the boys from Bakersfield to OBfUgu have been asked to send me notea and on the first day of each month I wtt Bros. North am er, Fresno; Towles, Etherton, Famoso, and Weller at Lcdfeorfc Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 389 to get In touch with the brothers in their vicinity and send me their notes by the 10th of each month so I can forward them to St. Louis. My address is General Delivery, Mojave, Cal. Any brother having anything for the journal not in communication with the previously mentioned brothers may mail it direct to me. Bro. T. N. McCandless, Mojave, is in the San Francisco company hospital for oper- ation on his stomach, Bro. F. S. Trickey from the C. P. R. relieving. Bro. Wright is back at Taft after three months' visit in Texas. Bros. O. D. Day and E. P. Gibson are now dispatching in Bakersfield, vice Dispatcher Lane to Los Angeles, and Dispatcher Dug- gan, resigned. I returned to Bakersfield sixth on Novem- ber 5th, after being in the Navy for nineteen months. Kind of confusing to change back to Morse code after using Continental on the wireless sets. Managed to get a copy of Tux Telborapher during the entire cruise, either by having them sent from home or getting them from the Eastern brothers around New York Central offices In New York. While assigned to the steamship S. Y. Harkness, running from the United States to Mexico and South American ports, be- came acquainted with Bro. M. L. Kennedy, an engineer on the ship, formerly a teleg- rapher at Calgary, on the-C. P. R.. who still had his card right up-to-date. Saw several other brothers, all up-to-date, from various railroads, both on this and the other side of the Atlantic. As a rule, they were the best radio men the Navy had. Bro. W. J. Hendricks, who bid in West- haven agency, remained at Searles and bid back there. Bro. J. B. Putnam, resigned, is now in Texas. Bib. C. M. Love from Fram relieved by Bro. Garner on third Rowen for several months. Bro. R. S. Easterwood, manager Mojave, off sick and visiting at Tulare a few days, relieved temporarily by Bro. Haines, later by Bro. Hughes ; Bro. Haines relieving the agent at Carruthers on account of sickness ; Bro. Pherson, third Fresno, also sick, re- lieved by Bro. Franks ; Bro. Fulton, Bakers- field relay, relieving Bro. Hendricks, Searles agency, gone to San Francisco hospital. Bro. Jackson, from Tehachapl, Is there recover- ing from the "flu,” and Bro. McCandless, Mojave, convalescing from an operation. Mrs. Trumbo, wife of Bro. Trumbo, Caliente, has gone to Kentucky on account of the serious illness of her mother. Bro. Cameron, wife and children, have returned to Marcel from New Orleans. Bro. Chas. Rice, second Wioodford, is on leave of absence. Bro. Black, at Selma, is down with influ- Bro. Underwood working both Jobs. Bro. Haines doing likewise at Terra Bella, and Bro. Spraker at Sanger is seriously ill with the same disease. Bro. Ed Fry, Goshen Junction agency, was relieved by Bro. C. R. Baughman a few days, and Bro. J. H. Shay is back on sec- ond Kingsburg, relieved at Westhavei^ by Bro. Doyle from Woodford third. The new and larger equipment in *‘K” Bakersfield makes it a much more desirable place to work. New seniority lists were mailed out Feb. 11th. Anyone who did not get a copy write the local chairman. The nons are shown by Nos. 46, 93. 164, 168, 169, 170, 171, 173, 174 and 175. The high numbers are all new men, some of whom may now be members some place. Interview them and advise the local chairman promptly. Wish to thank Bros. E. L. Cartt, J. A. Bower, E. P. Gibson from "DS,” and the other boys for their notes. Ray McCuiston, Cert. 1226. Tucaon Division — Bro. and Sister Fulks, agency and second Estrella, with three years' rights, would like to trade with someone on the Shasta or Portland divisions. Bro. L. L. Maull, third Lordsburg, , N. M., seniority from September 28, 1917, desires, owing to his wife’s health, to trade with someone on a California division. Job pays good, no clerical work, a lively town, fine climate. Bro. C. F. Banish, afflicted with asthma, advised by the doctors to come to Arizona, desires to trade to this division, if possible, where there is a good school. Seniority from November 5, 1917. Has second at Winne- mucca, Nev., Salt Lake Division; popula- tion 3000, pays 66% cents an hour, work every Sunday, very little telegraphing and clerical work. Force consists of an agent, three operators, a cashier and two ware- housemen. If interested, write him. Local Chairman O’Connor will shortly fur- nish me with all the news of interest from other divisions received from Bros. Cull and Hammond each month, and we will be able to keep the entire division posted. We are soon expecting to hear that In- terpretation No. 8, In regard to Sunday work, is effective here. It will carry with it accrued back pay from October 1, IS 18. Bro. Francis lost several months' seniority when cut off the board working the Tucson ink Job. When the operators were put back he failed to establish his rights by working one day. It behooves us all to look out and not let anyone run around us. East End Notes — Bro. Laughran, third Separ, was called to New Orleans recently. Bro. L. L. Maull, third Lordsburg, relieved Digitized by Google

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390 The Railroad Telegrapher. 10 days by Bro. Custer from fourth there on account of sickness. Bro. T. H. Morrison, relieved on third Bowie by Bro. Baker, is being congratulated on his recent marriage. Bro. C. J. Clifford relieved Bro. Christian, third Willcox, ten days. Bro. Mahoney, agent Benson, on sick leave, relieved by Bro. Eby ; Bro. O’Brien, on third there, also off sick. Sister Kv B. Morrison, returning to sec- ond Mescal, relieved Bro. L. B. Case, trans- ferred to Stockton Division, and Sister A. M. Morrison, returning to third Polvo, relieved Bro. Restriter, transferred to Sacramento Division. Bros. Shook and Kislig relieved at Tucson recently by Bros. Hobart and Francis. Dispatcher Bro. Stafford has returned. Everyorte has a good word for the con- genial 41 Jeff" West End Notes — Sister Hobart, returning from New Or- leans, relieved Bro. Turner, second Araby, two weeks. Sister Bobbie Smith and Mrs. Weller opened new first and third there. ^ro. Silva, who relieved Bro. Morgan, Casa Grande, while off with the “flu," later relieved Bro. Pixley, second Dome. Bro. Irtoy Wheadon relieved Bro. Hoover, agent Mohawk, while off 30 days to his “bean ranch." Sister Fulks, Estrella agency, relieved by Bro. Perrin, and Bro. Kitchens, Maricopa third, by Bro. Boulter, on account of illness. Several of the brothers on this end are making big money this winter trapping. Thanks to Bros. Wheadon, Dyess, Fulks, Cates, Mahoney, Pritchett and Cook for as- sistance with this write-up. Kathryi^ B. Morrison, Box 44, Benson, Ariz. Northern Pacific R. R., Div. 54. Members Pasco Division : Erase from your new seniority lists W. H. Trask, Marcus Olson and Joseph Owens, and show J. G. Akridge as up to date. Under Supplement 13 C. S. Davis and H. W. Mc- Keown were given the seniority they forfeited when on the "CS” Job, years ago, and C. P. Dey got the seniority he lost by being an exclusive. All the agents who recently come under our schedule were given seniority from the date of their last employment in our department. Help me to get in the agents at Toppen- ish, Wapato and Pendleton. Make them un- derstand how a good union worker feels toward those who continue to “get in cheap.” Report to me any you are working with who are not up to date, and always, when a new man reports at your station, ask to see his card. If he hasn’t got one, secure his appli- cation or write me. Show him that we ex- pect his membership as soon as he has drawn a check or two, and keep right after him until he joins. H. H. Fleshsr. Pasco Div., First and Second Diets. Notes— Pasco second closed, Bro. R. H. Wolf bumping Bro. Korb, second Toppenish, Bro. Smith, first thefe, was relieved by Bro. Bush DO days while visiting his folks In Ohio. Sister Moore, first Gibson, nursed Sister Wolfe, second there, while seriously ill with pneumonia. Bro. and Sister Pierce have their son at home with them now from Seattle Univer- sity. Sister Chadwick, third Parker, who, re- turning from 60 days' visit to her parents in Kansas, was stricken with a serious attack of the “flu," is now convalescing in SL Elisa- beth’s Hospital, Yakima. Bra Freedman’s family, third Yakima, is also recovering after all being down with same disease. Bro. Frazier, agent Parker, is on his honeymoon. Congratulations. Bro. C. H. Howbrook, who served as sub- marine cable operator ip the Signal Corps, Alaska, has returned and displaced Bro. J. F. Scharosch, who went to Cornell first end later relieved Sister Dix at Badger for 90 days while she was planting “spuds" on her homestead. Thanks to Bro. Howbrook for items. “MD," Cert 209. Tacoma Division — Sister Sowders has returned to Napavlne, and Local Chairman Carr to Olympia. Bro. Phillips died there recently of pneumonia. His surviving loved ones have our heartfelt sympathy ; also Bros. Runyan, agent LitteU, and Parkinson, Napavlne, both having re- cently lost their fathers. Bro. Wyse, Chehalis, relieved Bro. Dean. Castle Rock, while he and Mrs. Dean weri in Ozona, Florida. Bro. Bradbury is now dispatching on main line and Bro. Krueger on the I. ft G. N. tn Texas. I have been appointed correspondent for this division, and will appreciate any items you care to send me U. S. mail. E. C. Bryan, Cert 1621, Steilacoon, Wash. Montana Division — Correct your seniority list to read: Cert 2289, C. C. Field, transferred to us. If any member finds himself or herself In a wrong place on the new list, advise me so that our record may be complete when another on# is issued. ' Let us make an open forum of this spact In The Telegrapher on matters pertinent to our division. Through no opportunity to hold well-attended meetings, due to inffe* quent train service and Isolated branch po- sitions, we miss in the exchange of ideas. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 391 Read the editorial 8 In Tot Telegrapher, where matters vital to us are being reviewed completely and exhaustively. There is no legislation or litigation concerning tfur wel- fare that is not discussed there. If you are aware of any irregularities, re- port them so they can be adjusted. Send Bro. Frank Cline, "VS” Livingston, your notes for the write-up. Anything you have to suggest for the welfare and better- ment of the Montana Division, send to me. A. J. Rangier, Local Chairman. Montana Division Notes — Sister Edith Stone is back on third East Helena ; Sister Violet Craig Gordy on second Toston, latter after a sick spell. Bro. E. H. Snyder is back on second Lombard ; Bro. E. L. Stockman on second Mission from Mis- soula hospital. All who were ill were re- membered with flowers. Bro. Rodney Sim bid in third Logan, vice Bro. Cartwright, who with Bros. Loft us and Swarts opened the new office at Belgrade. # Bro. FVed Smith is relieving Bro. Frank bline at “VS” Livingston, down with the •’flu.” Bros. Carleton and Olin, ”V8,” are now in the dispatcher’s office. Bra A. J. Ranger, second Logan, has been elected local chairman, vice Bro. J. F. Hickey, resigned. Assistant Local Chairman Lemm reports that over 100 members cionated $55 for a mimeograph for the local chairman, who will send out a list to each one of the subscribers to the fund. He has already sent out one circular letter since getting the machine. Cert. 481. Dakota Division — Our notes for the January ^*b leg rap her did not arrive in St. Louis in time for publi- cation and were included In the February write-up. Bro. N. O. Parr, Glasford, 111., writes for Bro. Sam Morse’s address in “Or Alabam,” but couldn’t locate it Bro. C. J. Roberts relieved Bro. H. C. Dahl, agent Eldridge, who was called to Denver. Bra L J. Jedlicka is relieving on second MSM” tower. Sister Marie Paulson, resigned, was called back into service, owing to the shortage of operators, and relieved Sister Nelson, third Steele, later relieving Sister Bessie Dallier, Glover, resigned ; also Bro. F. V. Wilson, re- signed to go to Idaho. Bro. E. L. Smith, agent Huff, has resigned and moved to Chicago with his family. Bro. H. C. Toyen, Eldridge, sick with "flu,” relieved by Sister Winnifred Watt, closing third Driscoll temporarily. Bra Chas. Hendrix writes from Humbolt, Sask., C. P. R., with "73” to his friends on the Dakota. Bro. Ralph Whitcome is back on first “JY.“ Bro. Roy Askew relieved Bro. Toyen, called in for investigation on helper collision. Bro. H. E. Rannestad, agent Regan, called to Fargo on a Federal trial, relieved by Bro. R. L. WHson. Sister Edna LaFave has returned to serv- ice for a short while, to relieve Sister Watt, third Steele, Sister Margaret v Fraser, nee Watt, for- merly agent Flora, now located at Makotl, *N. D., remits 1920 dues and assessments and writes that she intends to always carry an up-to-date O. R. T. card. * Sister Bessie Dallier, formerly agent Glo- ver, is married. Mrs.* Helgeson, nee Sister Clough, worked during the “flu” period to help out, Bro. C. R. Jolley coming to Ladoga, on main line. Ask for an up-to-date seniority list It has a certificate number in front of every one of the 124 names thereon. Bro. Poindexter spent several days with me recently, planning for future work on the division. Bro. J. A. Berdahl, agent Dunn Center, has reopened the Auditorium there with snappy, up-to-date sliows. Bro. H. L. Mattson, agent Dodge, after hours with his new $300 “fiddle,” puts the Killdeer Orchestra through their traces on the classical orchestration for “Broken Blos- soms” and “The Miracle Man.” Data is being complied covering Sunday work since January 1st, 1918, which will be submitted to the local chairman of each divlsJoH for his approval, after which the management and general committee will pro- ceed to figure the increase out which will af- fect those who have been assigned Sunday hours. Several new helpers put on as agents are being supplied with blanks as soon as we learn their whereabouts. Notify me at once where this is done and help organize them. March fee is $16.50; April, $15.25. This is now a 100 per cent division and no place for nons. Watch new recruits and new- comers from other divisions. We not only want to Keep the Dakota 100 per cent, but also do all we can to help make the whole N. P. System 100 per cent. H. H. Ellsworth, L. C., Cert 238. Idaho Division — Bro. LaMoreaux, second Kootenai Yard ; Bro. Dierkes, agent Hartline; Bro. Floyd, first Paradise, and Bro. G. W. Bailey, second Ramsey, were off several days recently, lat- ter relieved by Sister Shavelear. Bro. Ramey, agent Creston, is spending three months in Florida, relieved by Bro. W. J. Hilliard. Digitized by Google

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392 The .Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Mitchell, second Paradise, relieved a few days by Bro. L. E. Erickson, Just re- turned after two months’ visit East Third tricks opened at Sand Point, by Bro. Day Reynolds ; Athol, by Sister V. A. Paulin, and Eddy, by M. E. Weaver, a new man, who promises to line up pay day. Bros. Wool man and Beseke doubled until Bro. P. P. Ebert arrived at Cheney to relieve Bro. Parent of second, down with “flu” ; Bro. White, the agent there, also being sick with it Local Chairman Irwin was quarantined 17 days at Clarks Fork on account of his baby having the smallpox. Otis Orchards agency closed while Agent Bro. Thomson relieved him.'1 Cert. 498. Minnesota Division — Add to your seniority list : Certs. 2275, Horace A. Johnson; 2285, Gus Meyer; tow- erman Breckenridge ; 2270, A. A. Gray ; 2269, P. J. Lund, and H. . C. Jorgenson. Thanks to Bro. Swanson, who helped me to land them ; also General Secretary and Treasurer Nason, always ready to give a helping hand. Our aim is to make this division a 100 per cent solid membership, and our motto: Every member get a new member in 1920. Ask me the meaning of the star (•) prefix. All get busy ; let us have real co-operation on this division from now on and we can do the same as the Dakota Division. I have many things to contend with, as well as handling a heavy agency, so your help will be deeply appreciated. We made a good showing in January. Let’s do as well or bet- ter the subsequent months. L. W. Setterholm, Local Chairman. Minnesota Division Notes — Bro. Leighton had his name legally changed from Leutchenberger recently. Bro. Horace A. Johnson was the first man to get an up to date in response to the letters recently sent out by the local chairman. Several more letters were' mailed the nons ten days ago. Staples “SO” and “SJ” are solid with one exception. Everyone knows who that is. Bro. Cutler, second Detroit, was laid up with the “flu” for a week, Joe McNamara re- lieving. Bro. Setterholm and his whole fam- ily were also down with it a few days. Bro. Lund, agent Twin Valley, was laid up with the malady ; no one to relieve him. and helper had to get along best way he could. Drv. Cor. Members Lake Shore Division — Our January first seniority list was finally secured, revised, and with the kindness of the North Branch general office force, mimeo- graphed and a supply mailed to each station, so that every employe we represent can have one. Bro. W. J. Soshea should be added as No. 74, with a seniority date of August 7. 1916. I receive a new seniority list from Mr. Potter every three months and will notify you though these columns of additions of new members, etc., so you can correct your lists, and it will noj; be necessary to print new ones until next year. Bro. Graham. North Branch, recently referred to as Mr. Graham, was an error. Bro. W. J. Hoff- man, local secretary and treasurer, reports a balance of $37.16 In the flower fund. J. a Spurrier. L. C. Lake Superior Division — Bro. Addington, agent Willow River, off ten days with the “flu," relieved by Bro Fuller. Bro. Wlgg, second Wrenshall. also off several days with the malady. Bro. O’Brien, West Duluth, has recovered from his recent attack of nervous break- down. Willow River third closed, and Bro. Fuller, who relieved Sister Fuller on second there, owing to illness of her mother-in-law, was aken sick later. Bro. McFarland, first Carl- on, relieved by Bro. Buelow, account sick- ness of his wife. Bro. Hoffman is back on first Aitkin from Brainard hospital. Bro. " Hendrickson, Anton second, operated on for appendicitis in the hospital, is getting along fine. Bro. Cover is relieving Bro. Luke, extra dispatcher Duluth. Bro. H. H. White relieved Bro. Mone. agent Cromwell, while he was getting married. Sister Lankford is convalescing to a hos- pital In Illinois, among relatives. Bro. A. JJ. Brower, agent Carlton, so- journing South, accompanied by his wife relieved by Bro. Gray. Bro. C. A. Lindquist, Rush City, attended the basket ball contest between Hamline University and All Stars of Rush City, won by latter, 34 to 11. Cbbt. $$2- St. Paul Division — The annual dance of the Twin City Teleg- raphers’ Club will be held at the Moose Halt corner Wabasha and Sixth streets. St Paul Minn., on Tuesday, April 16, 1920. All teleg- raphers and their friends invited to attend Refreshments served and a good time guar- anteed. Exclusive agents and towermen being in- cluded in the 1920 seniority list, check ycur date of seniority. If not correct, advise me. Scratch off No. 63. East Minneapolis first, new, bid In by Bro. C. G. Walburn. Bro. Evans to White Bear as cashier. Bro. Nolan, second Mississippi St Yard relieved several weeks by Bro. Walburn from Rice. Sister Hermanson, Sartell, on two-months trip to California, relieved by Sister Martinson, and Bro. Quilllford, third Rice. 90 days by Bro. Lindholro. digitized by Google

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The Railroad i Bro Hardenbrook, second Little Falls, called home account sickness, relieved by Bro. Buck of Darling-. Bro. Smith, third Lincoln, relieved during the holidays by Sister Martinson, who also relieved Bro. Coates, Clear Lake, and Bro. Haro, agent Becker. Bro. Johnson, Becker, relieved several nights by Bro. Lindholm. Bro. Joel in was off while his daughter was in the hospital with typhoid-pneumonia, re- lieved by Bro. Savage. Bro. Nolan laid off on Bro. Joslln's return. Bros. Smith, White Bear ; Foulkes and Herbreg, Mississippi St ; Sova, Little Falls ; Wlpper, Elk River, and Ettinger, Coon Creek, won O. R. T. rings for securing new members last year. If there is a contest In 1920, enter It The rlngB are beauties and well worth the effort It is now Bro. W. E. Spink, exclusive agent MahtomedL Also put the prefix “Bro.” to No. 65, Frank Streich, agent Villard. Bro. Jacobson, recalled from “The Soo” at Dresser Jet, relieved Agent Powers at Flens- burg, on 90 days' leave. Bro. Lindholm relieved Bro. M. E. Smith, second Philbrook, and Bro. Gulliford, second Rice. Bro. Buck, second Darling'! relieved Bro. Hardenbrook, second Little Falls, when called to his home in Iowa, owing to the seri- ous illness of his mother. Thanks to Bro. Foulkes for notes. Clyde Bartee, L. C., Cert. 82. Wheeling & Lake Erie R. R., Div. 55. Falls Jet second and third opened by Mrs. L. H. H&rtzel] and Bro. Lew Davis. Latter, while relieving the agent at Minerva, off sick, was relieved by Mary McFee, who later bid In third Falls Jet, and I. M. Voorhees sec- ond. Brothers, get busy here now, also on H. D. Stlpp, new man from “Big 4,” on third Somerville. The short illness and death of Bro. T. S. Pitt third Kent, came as a shock to all who knerw him. Bros. Hamilton and Schilling, who doubled several days, later relieved by BesB Peoples. Bro. Griswold, second Canton Yard, off sick, relieved by Barton, a new man. Bro. Forney Is back on third there, vice Ray Ben- der to second Coshocton, and Bro. Farquhar is back on second Harmon. Bro. D. E. Smith, third Kemery, off sick, Bro. Suntheimer and Sister Marguerite Welch doubling several days, when trick was eloped ; no available relief. Later Sister Welch went to third Somerdale. Porter was also closed, owing to the illness of Bro. Miser. Bro. Lew Davis visited friends in Pitts- burgh several days recently. Bro. Teuscher, while off getting married, Telegrapher. 393 was relieved by Relief Agent Foster. Con- gratulations. Freight trains now handled between 93rd St. and Belt Line Jet over the Newburg & South Shore R. R., Dermits running Mallet type engines into Cleveland. - Cert. 318. Nashville, Chattanooga & St. L., Div. 57. Nashville Division — The meeting in Dickson, Wednesday, Feb- ruary 11th, was called to order at 8 :00 o’clock p. m„ by Bros. B. H. Hall and John Burch, temporary chairman and secretary- treasurer, respectively. Many talks and suggestions were made which everyone appreciated. Sorry the P. & M. Division was not represented. The meeting at Hollow Rock was held second Sunday this month, between trains Nos. 4 and 8, in order to accommodate more night and the P. & M. Division men. The April meeting place was selected at this meeting. These meetings are very interesting. Come and get acquainted with the boys you have been working with for years and haven’t had an opportunity to meet personally. Bro. B. H. Hall has been appointed as- sistant local chairman. H. E. Martin, Cert. 114, Hemp. Cor. P. A M. Division — Fourteen members attended the Lexington meeting, Sunday, February 8th. Sorry to hear of General Chairman Hamil- ton being In such bad health. Local Chairman Arnold relieved several days by Bro. Odell, and Bro. Morrison, agent Somerville, by Bro. Owen. Bro. Beale, second Jackson, has gone to the B. & N. W. as dispatcher, relieved by Bro. Pipkin, who later relieved Bro. White- horn, third Jackson, while In Texas, owing to the death of his mother. He has our heartfelt sympathy in his loss. Bro. Norwood, second Oakland, while off sick, relieved by Bro. Sergerson. Bro. Jones, Benton, visited his parents at Puryear recently. Cert. 338. Louisville & Nashville R. R., Div. 58. New Orleans A Mobile Division Only eight showed up at our Biloxi Feb- ruary meeting. We celebrated Washington's birthday by holding a meeting at Bay St. Louis. Vice-President Anderson writes, congratu- lating Local Chairman Greene on having the best division on the system, nearly 127 per cent. If that was worth working for, it’s worth keeping. See that the other fellow pays up and attends the meetings. Bro. Greene has to lose a day to do so, and most of you can come without losing any time. The annual card list was headed by Bros. Digitized by Google

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394 The Railroad Telegrapher. Dezauche and S. C. Ladner. Any of you without one better get it now. You may get in trouble and need it. Mayor Kennedy of Biloxi is due a vote of thanks for securing such njce meeting places for us as the beautiful Elks and Tourist Clubs. Bro. R. L. Williams relieved Bro. Colley, Biloxi first, several days while his mother was sick. We are glad to see Sister Dodge around again after her recent illness. Bro. Turner, St. Elmo, was off several days, owing to the serious illness of his wife, and Bro. S. W. Capers, Gulfport, was re- lieved by Bro. Bennefield while off sick. Bro. Champlin, Pass Christian, returning from a month's vacation, relieved Bro. Blaize a few days, relieved by Sister Epperson, and Sister Riviere relieved Bro. Jones there sev- eral days. Cert. 1964. Memphis Line — Brothers come to the meetings. That’s the place to talk things over regarding our pay, etc. We had a nice meeting at Guth- rie Saturday night. Several brothers from the Henderson Division were present; also G. S. and T. Moneypenny. Every employe who is not getting just treatment should file his grievance with the committee and help to line up the few nons. Bro. Bell off with the “flu” was relieved by Sister McDonald. Send in a few notes each month. H. L. Bush, Cert. 847. Kentucky Division — Bro. Chewning, Sinks, on sick list a few days relieved by Bro. Chas. Jackson, and Bro. J. M. Brown, first East Bernstadt, off three days with “flu” relieved by Bro. G. C. Maret. Bro. R. B. Pergrem is back on third, Mprningview, after a siege of typhoid. It is now Bro. Singleton, third “NY." Redhouse office was broken into again a few nights ago, but Bro. Stewart was on guard and nothing was taken. Brothers, keep after the few nons, and remember : “No card, no favors” Some one on the north end send me a few notes. If each member will send in only one item we would have a good write up. J. B. P., Cert 786. Henderson Division — Let’s all pull together and show the of- ficials that we can be just as efficient now as when we were working under high pres- sure during the war. The small non-telegraph agencies being in- cluded in our agreement gives these work- ers a nice Increase, some of them getting around about $1,000 in back pay. This is a good argument to help us line them up and the few other nons and make our di- vision 100 per cent. New members, agents : Stanley, at Mor- ton ; Jackson, NortonviUe; Mahoney, Mor- ganfleld ; Ligon, Hanson, and Rogers jticket agent, Henderson. The “Boss” made a special effort to re- lieve the newlyweds, Bros. Langley, South Howell, and McCreary, Goodletts, for the great evdnt, as he felt like this would likely be the last time he would be called on to relieve them. Brothers and sisters, send me some notes. Bro. Jones is the only one who has furnished any to date. J. N. J. Cert 610. Cincinnati Division — Bro. Rucker on a trip to Atlanta, Qa. relieved by Bro. Ames, T. J. Tower. Bros. Lee, Shelbyville, and Perkins, at Christiansbury. ,moved trains very efficiently while the despatcher was cut off during the recent heavy sleet storm, wliile the wires were down. It is now Bros. R. B. Armstrong and Frank Schooler. Bro. Green, while visiting his sheep farm, was relieved by Bro. Griffith, and Bro. Perk- ins, third Christiansburg, sick with the “flu,” by Bro. Wilson, while Bro. J. M. Farris has returned to St. Matthews after a 30 days' trip West, relieved by Bro. iJlanford, and he by Bro. Callender. Bro. M. E. Cochron and Bro. Stovall off sick several days, latter relieved by Bra Garner. Sister Merritt, while on sick list relieved by Bro. Webster. Local Chairman Reneker has returned from the South. W. E. J., Cert 807. Southern Ry., Div. 59. Knoxville Division- Boys the “CS” rush is over. Let us all wake up and do our duty as loyal membera Understand that our committee has gone to Washington to negotiate with the com- pany for a new contract The temporary jobs at "ND” and "BO” have been cut out, Niota third, remaining regular. We were all sorry to lose Dispatcher Pen- nebaker, but glad to have Bro. Hudson back with us again. Bro. W. G. Wallace, Cert 34. and Mrs. Wallace, of Knoxville, desire to thank th* boys on the Knoxville and Coster Divisions for the financial aid given them when almost everything they possessed had been destroyed by fire. We are very near the 100 per cent mark. Send me some news and will try and keep this division lined up. Cert. 2IW* Digitized by tjOOQle

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Thk Railboad Telegrapheb. 895 Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe, Div. 61. General Relay Offices— Amarillo : Bro. Shingler transferred to Chicago relay. Bro. H. E. McAuley announces the arrival of a baby girl on Jan. 29th. Manager Stowell In Clovis hospital with the "flu'* convalescing. Bros. Beck and Matthews on L. N. C. The families of Bros. Blrdwell and Mlzet and the wife of Bro. Moore, down with "flu.’* Sister Redding has returned from vacation. Authority received for pay for meal hours after October, 1918, Bro. Moore getting $375 and several others "|75 to $100. Las Vegas : Bro. E. E. Huyck now up- ' to-date, this makes us solid. Albuquerque: Bro. H. H. Banner relieved by Bro. J. O. Cook from Wellington, Kan., returns to the New York Central, Toledo, Ohio. Bro. Eugene C. Montgomery has returned from vacation. Newton, Kan. : Bro. Ed Rossell off 30 days sick. Bro. S. B. Rohrer called to Beaver, Iowa, sickness in family. Bros. El H. Brown, from "GO” Topeka, and Q. 8. Allen, from Denver, here extra. "No card, no favors” here. All lined up except third trick wire chief. Go Topeka: Bro. Porter from "DX” Ark City bumped Bro/ Brown to Newton. The reduction got Bros. Beckwith and Sledge and nons Witherspoon and Tate. Bro. Owens assigned newly created second trick traffic chief. Night Chief Brown has taken a tele- graph trick here, succeeded by Wire Chief Bro. Obley, and he by Neill, relieved on first ^ “TC” by night "TC” Bro. Owens, and he by Bro. Ness. Bro. Baker called to "DX” Ark City on account of the death of his father. Please have your notes in "GO” by the 15th. That gives me a good chance to fcork them over and mail them to St. Louis by the 20th. Being assigned a regular wire gives me very little chance to get around and jog each one’s memory. "Ra,” Cert 167. Missouri Division — All try and contribute at least one item for the write-up. Read the article entitled "Organization” In the Correspondents’ Department. We don’t do thus but once a month, and get rather rusty between times. Bro. G. E. Holman, who will be remem- bered by the old Santa Fe boys, writes that he enjoys reading our notes very mueu. Cert. 1994. Illinois Division — restrictions limiting size of our official organ, that he has been obliged to discontinue print- ing in the Fraternal columns an "Assign- ments,” "In Memoriams,” "Cards of Thanks” and "Vacations,” and that "Births,” "Mar- riages,” and "Deaths” should be sent In on separate slips in order to receive immediate attention for publication in the "Personal column.” Bro. J. H. Collier, Chillicothe, Is recuper- ating from an operation for appendicitis in Topeka hospital. Bids can be placed for on* or all the po- sitions on Bulletins, by stating your choice, such as first, second, third, and so on, but you should ascertain if you caji comply with paragraph (a)) Article VT before bidding on any position. Several being off during the recent epi- demic necessitated the use of regular em- ployes for relief work. Observe Article IX of our schedule, covering such cases, and get full compensation accordingly. We are all entitled to a copy of it. If you have not received one ask the Superintendent for it. Make it your daily business to show the light to ally misguided "NON” you can locate. Cert. 245. Eastern Division — We went over the top at the* close of 1919 with 213 members for only 207 scheduled po- sitions. Sister Anna L. Spain, relieved on second Princeton, by Miss Bertha Cook, for a 30 days’ visit at. her home in Arizona. Bro. Coleman, agent Garnett, on 90 days' leave, has gone to the Topeka hospital for treatment, and Bro. D. V. Atchison, Iola, who was in the same hospital two weeks, has gone to New Mexico to recuperate. Bro. Detlor, of Lawrence, owing to illness in his family recently, was relieved a week by Bro. Heck, who also relieved Bro. Patton, "NR” Emporia, while down with the “flu,” which has been very bad on this division. Bro. McCullough relieved Bro. Laughran, first "H” Humboldt, while he was sick with it Bro. W. E. Marler, a new man, was re- cently married. Congratulations. I received notes from just one Brother this month. Cert. 899. M. & M. Branch — McPherson is now lined up 100 per cent. There are nine O. R. T. men there. Let us get up an O. R. T. club there and meet once a month. Let us hear from some of you about this. It is now Bro. Rpy Banks at Lehigh. Some of the assistant agents (helpers) re- ceived over $200 for December, including $50 back pay. Keep after them also. Bro. Troyer, Little River, was off a few days recently Let’s get after the Western Union for a commission on all business handled. A great Digitized by Google

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396 The Railroad Telegrapher. deal of it is collected at the other end and we get nothing for it but our trouble. The clerks’ slight increase, effective Jan. 1st, makes more per hour, but less hours. - Bro. Deitz’s operator was taken away from him, at Marion, Jan. 3rd. Cert. 2609. Panhandle Division — Bro. O. A. Clayworth, agent Danville, died Feb. 18th, of pneumonia after ten days’ ill- ness. He. was a loyal member, a faithful husband and father and a valuable railroad man. A beautiful wreath was sent for his funeral in remembrance of him by the em- ployes of this division. We extend to the family our sincere sympathy in their be- reavement. Brothers keep your dues and insurance up to date. We know not when we will be called and should protect those we leave behind the best we possibly can. A good safeguard is an O. R. T. policy. Help Bro. Carson to keep the division clear of “NONS.” We want to remain an un- broken front. Brothers on the branches, send me your items not later than the 20th, so I can con- solidate and get them to St. Louis as much before the 26tlf as possible and insure them getting in current numbers. “S” Cert. 987, at “NK.” Slaton Division — It is now Bro. Marshall, agent Hale Center, and Leinlnger reinstated on second Post. Local Chairman Hardy is on a' thirty days’ trip to California. Bro. Gartman is visiting friends in Lub- bock, Slaton and Lockney. Bros. Sprague and Shields were in Lub- bock for the eye and ear test recently. Bro. and Sister Miller off with “flu” and smallpox. Bro. Rowden attended court in Austin sev- eral days. We are expecting the biggest shipments of cattle this spring ever known. This means lots of business. Please send in your items not later than the 17th and help me to make an interesting write-up. Keep after the delinquents and nons. “CD,” Cert 549. Pecos Division— Mrs. Vera Sullivan, formerly clerk in the division engineer’s office at Newton, is on third Sals ; P. N. McEachram, first sergeant 311th Field Signal Battalion, A. E. F., is at Clovis, and Bro. A. L. Keesling, New Mex- ico Division, on third Encino. Sais and Abo, both working three opera- tors, opened recently. P. D. Willoughby is back on third "VN" after doing his bit for “Uncle Sam.” L. W. Brown, Elida, has our sympathy in his recent bereavement. Only one non between Clovis and Pecos, Mrs. M. B. Gates, Orla, Texas. Several on the main include J. F. Gott, “FS” ; C. Jack- son, Clovis ; G. C. Davis, N. E. Myrick and wife, Ricardo. Will likely have meetings shortly at Clovis, Belen or Vaughn. Cert. 465. Rio Grande Division- Second Nutt abolished, displacing Mrs. Weber. Bro. G. W. Cunningham, Santa Rita days, displaced by Bro. F. E. Garrett, went to Canutillo; no board, no bouse, no nothing, so he relieved Bro. C. F. Barrett, agent Latuna, ten days ; and Bro. Engel, agent Socorro, when caled to Colorado owing to the death of his sister. He has our sympa- thy in his bereavement. Later Bro. Garrett’s Job was discontinued and he went to Socorro, where he fell and dislocated his shoulder while hustling ex- press and was relieved by Bro. Zirarnerly. apprentice, until the return of Bro. R A Peters, who was relieving Bro. G. Wm. R. Yost, "PS” El Paso, while he had the “flu.” This was the second time Bro. Peters was called back, on account of emergencies, from his trip to Hurley. Bro. J. V. Long, cashier-operator Socorro, back from Clovis hospital after an operation, relieved Local Chairman Lewis, who went to third Isleta. Sister Mary Hold, relieved on second Los Lunas by Bro. J. L. Monahans, went to Barr second. Bro. W. H. Sniff, San Marcial dispatcher’s office, visiting his home in Colorado, relieved by Bro. W. H. Reynolds two weeks. On hfc return relieved Bro. Bert Harrlss on "87” job while he visited home folks at Ft. Worth Bro. Andreas bumped into Engle, displaced by Bro. Bert Webb at Abajo, who asked for the blanks immediately after his return from the army. Our recent campaign on this division left no delinquents, and only four nons: Agent Edwards, Las Cruces, who received about $1,000 back pay, hours reduced from 12 to 8, salary raised $85 per month ; Mrs. Ed- wards, first there, about $200 back pay, sal- ary raised to $65 a month ; Mrs. Williams. TJpham nights, and Mrs. Elliott, aged Lajoya, $350 back pay, hours reduced from 12 to 8, salaries raised, from $66 to $11* per month. We, must keep after them until we get their applications, and remember. “No cardj no favors J* Our schedule has been distributed. Con- sidering it Is the first in twenty years, it Is a great accomplishment. Read the Interpre- tations. Anything you do not understand, call on your local chairman or one of We assistants. They will gladly explain it Cert. 840$.

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 397 Albuquerque Division — Bra and Sister Thomas doubling while Mrs. Koser, Suawanee first, was sick for ten days. Bro. J. J. Durant to third Pinta on account of sickness. Bros. L: B. Durant, Greet and Ralston are back, after a siege of “flu." Bro. G. M. Henderson’s grievance pending since last fall has been settled and he goes to Joe City agency. Sister Anna J. Kosta, agent Adamana, has been appointed assistant local chairman. Members of the second district call on her for any information needed. When new men Bhow up find out whether they are up-to-date ; if so. their division and certificate number. Give this information to your assistant or acting local chairman. Convince anyone not carrying a card that It is absolutely necessary to do so. V. P. Keen, second McCartys. has promised. Keep after him. Remember the slogan, “No card, no favors." Crrt. 969. Arizona Division — Bra Blake, former correspondent, has re- signed and I have^ volunteered to write up the notes. Any suggestions or news will be greatly appreciated. Keep after the two none left. Our ambi- tion is 100 per cent, to be relieved of the U. 8. mail, have free billing on our groceries, ice furnished free during summer months and improvements on our cars, such as sleep- ing porches, etc. To secure all this we should not have any slackers or laggards. . The 1920 seniority list shows many com- ing to this division owing to new positions and brothers and sisters laying off. Among the* new comers are P. W. Brady from D. 4 R. G. at Barstow; A. L. Pries, Herman Miller, W. L. Hadaway, F. P. Ramirez, Vin- cent Klines, Bro. W. E. Kennedy, third Yampi, and R. L. Ford. Operator Moore is on second Yampi. Brothers, investigate the standing of these men and see that those not up-to-date get cards at once. First and second Walapai closed several days,* 8ister Thornberg being ill and Mr. Thornberg taking her to Los Angeles. Bra Jordan from Drake also taken to Los Angeles owing to an attack of the "flu," and Bro. Gilmore at Kingman was on sick list a week with the same malady, latter relieved by Bro. Ford. Sister McCall, Franconia, visiting in Los Angeles, relieved by Sister Trinkle. R. A. Vawter, Cert 3106. Valley Division — Bro. Costa of Pittsburgh is being con- gratulated upon the arrival of a baby girl. Bro. G. D. Miller, back at Reedley from a trip through the Northwest, is trying to lo- cate the thief who stole his overcoat and automatic from the office. # Bro- Tabler, agent MInkler, has returned from his father’s funeral. He has our sym- pathy in his bereavement Bro. A. H. Brandt is back at Del Rey after several weeks’ visit with relatives in Los Angeles. Bro. Gourley, Antioch, relieved a few days by Bro. MaHey, who also relieved Bro. Tinkham, agent Christie, while down with tho “flu." Latter is now at Cutler agency. Bro. Pridgen and wife at Knightsen have also been down with the “flu." Bro. Bowles relieved Bro. Brady, agent Wlnton, when he went to Los Angeles hos- pital to have his appendix removed. ' Bro- H. L. Browne relieved Bro. C. W. Browne at Stockton, and Bros. Ruark, Rob- inson and Henderson of Rlverbank a few days. Bro. C. V. Mikel is now chief clerk to gen- eral agent Hanna at Oakland. Bro. Tannahil Visalia, relieved of $30 by a woman burgler while on duty one night recently, won't stand for any joking about it. He says it was no laughing matter. Send in your notes if .you want to see this division written up in The Telegrapher. C. B. H.. "RK," Cert 1934. “Queen & Crescent” North, Div. 62. A. G. 8 . Division — Bro. Deweese relieved Bro. Claude O’Dell of Tuscaloosa several days owing to the ill- ness of his wife. Bro. “Woodrow" Wilson, Bro. L. N. Routt and Bro. Killian, Moundville, were off a few days on account of the “flu." Bro. Daner is acting agent at LivingBton owing to the death of Agent Bro. J. F. Capps. Bro. P. J. Gray is at Dawdle during ab- sence of Mr. Roberts, who took his wife, clerk at Woodstock, to Florida for her health. Bro. E. E. Hayes is In the Birmingham dispatcher’s office, and Bro. “Bill" Seibert is regular relief dispatcher. Bro. Clay Collins, Collinsville, off ten days on account of getting his eye injured while hooping up an order. Cert. 194. N. O. .fr N. B. District — Bros. Bonner and Saucier were off a few days recently. Local Chairman Laughlin read and ex- plained the new agreement to the boys at the recent Hattiesburg meeting. It is now Bro. Mark Ezell, third J. C. shops. Bro. J. W. Wiggins, with the Seaboard Air Line at Hamlett, N. C., writes that he Is doing fine. Send me some news notes. They will be appreciated. If you know of any delinquents see that Digitized by vjOOV Lv

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398 Tiie Railboad Telegrapheb. they pay up. With the roads back in the hands of the private owners we will need every card. L. C. McGlohn. “Queen & Crescent” South, Div. 69. Bro. J. S. Summersill, who relieved me while attending the general chairmen's called meeting in Washington, D. C„ Feb- ruary 23rd, later relieved Bro. Runge, agent Arcadia, La., on sick list. Bro. M. B. Lewis, assistant ticket agent Qibbsland, and his wife had a very clos$ call the night of February 17th when V. S. & P. passenger train collided with a Louisiana and Northwest freight train standing on the crossing. The V. S. & P. engine landed in the ticket office, and the gondola was struck taking all the telegraph office and part of the waiting room away with it, killing two men outright and injuring 25 other people. Bro. Marshall, ticket agent there, is having rather a strenuous time while they are repairing his office. r L W. Shields has been appointed freight agent at Sibley, which since the oil boom in this section has become quite an impor- tant station on the V. S. & -P. Shelly Will- son is the new second trick operator there. Local Chairman O’Neal will have to line them both up in the O. R. T. Local Chairman Stennett, A. & V. at Lake, Miss., is Just up from a severe case of the “flu,” not yet returned to work. Bro. H. D. Dennis, agent Mounds, also on sick list a few days, and Bro. R. W. Collins, agent Haughton, latter relieved Bro. Train- man Grayson, “NO" and "NE," also Bro. B. F. Brown, second Gibbsland freight office. If the brothers furnish me with notes I will try to get a write-up each month in our journal. C. A. Berry, G. C. Great Northern Ry., Div. 70. Montana Division — Bro. Ray White has returned to Plenty- wood after several months' leave. Sister Reed, Saco third, relieved by Sister Lilje- green while visiting her sister, Mrs. Huey, a former operator, now the wife of one of the train dispatchers at Wolfpoint Bro. Meyers is back on second Bowdoin after several months’ visit with friends and relatives in Minnesota, and Sister Olson on second Dodson after a month’s visit with friends and relatives In North Dakota, re- lieved by Sister Philley, who previously re- lieved Bro. Peterson, Dodson third, while visiting relatives in San Francisco. Bro. Newell, first Bainville, while on a trip to Malta to file on his homestead, was relieved by Sister Goodheart, who also re- lieved Sister Howe, Savoy second, two months. Bro. Platts, Vandalia, while visiting in Iowa, was relieved by Bro. Hady Platts, and Sister Richardson, third Bainville, a few days 6n a trip to Malta, by Bro. Storm. Sister Gagen has resigned to get married. Congratulations. H. O. Mahr, Dodson, is also out of service. Bro. Janes, the agent, now doing the wire work there. Bro. Albers, agent Alexandria, Is now traffic manager for the Olympic Milling Co. at Portland, Ore. Bro. Neikirk, third Snowden, was called to Illinois recently on account of the death of his mother. Sister Johnson, formerly « third there, sprained her ankle and vu taken to St Paul for medical attention. Bro. Roberts, agent Charbenneau, is sick with the “flu." Bro. Newell is relieving at Alexandria. Our Local Chairman has asked me to handle the write-up. I thank the boys and girls when sent me items, especially those from the East End. Come again, and let me have them in time so I can arrange and get them to St. Louis before the 25th of each month. A. V. fScHANCHE, Cert. 243. Hinsdale, Mont Havre Division- Sister Ernst, Cut Bank terminal, and Lo- cal Chairman Walker, down with “flu" sev- eral days ; latter relieved by Bro. Doran, who later relieved Sister Gallagher, “KD" tower. Bro. Tipton has resumed first Shelby after two months’ absence, taking a course in auctioneering. With deep regret we chronicle the death of Assistant Local Chairman Bro. J. K- McAllister of pneumonia In Deaconess Hos- pital. Great Falls, January 29. The body was taken to his old home at Reger, Mo., for Interment We have lost a good worker as well as a good friend, who- will be greatly missed. Mrs. McAllister, also down at same time, is improving rapidly. The bereaved relatives have the sympathy of all Everyone get after the “nons” and lln* them up. Local Chairman Walker, down with the “flu," appointed Bro. Josephson, Brady, to preside at the meeting called for Saturday evening, February 7, at Park Hotel, Great Falls, but No. 240 train was four hours late and the meeting was held at 10 a. m. Sunday morning, with 22 members being present. Very important matters were brought up and discussed by the different members. This was our first meeting sine* March 23, 1919. at Havre. Local Chairman Walker arranged to have flowers sent to Bro. McAllister while sick in hospital and paid for them out of his own pocket. The flower fund has been talked about Jong enough. Every member is now requested to remit 50 cents oilISI to Bro. Walker, who Digitized by VjOOV Lv!

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 399 will get out receipts and statement next month. The agents' meeting, held in Great Falls Sunday, February 8, 2 p. m., was well at- tended, having, with visitors from Butte and Montana divisions. Auditor Overcharge Claims Sprain. General Superintendent Smith, Mr. Slattery and Mr. Nichols, traffic department. Great Falls, gave very interest- ing talks on different subjects. Cert. 1300. Dakota Division — Bro. Keck relieved Bro. Pflaum, Hannah, on a trio to St. Louis, Chicago, etc. Bro. Peck, Park River, was off a few days owing to illness in the family and Bro. Gole, Devils Lake yard, was relieved by Miss Beebe, Doyon, several days on ac- count of the illness of his brother in St PauL Bro. Carey, Grand Forks relay; Bro. Jor- vig and Smart second Larimore, off awhile with the "flu." Get a list of the "nons" from the Local Chairman and line up those with and near you. Sister Lind not being allowed to work but six days a week on account of the North Dakota law, was relieved at Lakota Sunday night recently (when No. 1 was late) by E. P. Henry, a new man, now on Breck- enridge Division. We are Indebted to Bro. Keck for notes this month. Some of you other brothers send me some news to Box 441, Grand Forks, N. D. Div. Cor. Minot Division — Bro. Berce Berthold was called East owing to the death of his mother. Bro. Hutmaker, Coteau, lost his little son recently. We ex- tend our sympathy to those brothers in their bereavement. Local Chairman Vance went to White Earth several days owing to the illness of the agent there. The fourth telegrapher man at Wllliston has been taken off and everyone is now tak- ing train calls on the phone. This work should be handled by an operator. Obey your instructions to keep outsiders out of your affice and refuse to allow these parties to come in. We have an agreement with the Trainmen’s Union to the effect that they shall not use the phone except in cases of emergency. I have had no news for some time be- cause my helper was taken off and I was forced to work 18. hours a day. I have requested Bro. Vance to appoint a new correspondent who can give this department proper attention. Cert. 1473. Breckenridge Division— Bro. Tinnes, Breckenridge yard, attending law school at Grand Forks. Sister Taylor, Galchutt, back from Seattle and Vancouver, relieved Sister Kurtz, who relieved Sister Enochson, Durbin, account sickness. Sister Haley relieving Sister Oil- man, Breckenridge yard, same cause. Sister Robbins and Bro. Parks' wife, Luverne, sick. Bros. Sapp, "NI Bro. Ridgeway, Glen- fleld ; Spooner, Hannaford ; Turner, Hunter, and Waller, Heindal, all sick; latter relieved by Sister SchmeckaL New Members : Bro. Swanson, Caasel- ton tower; Sisters Melba Donohue and Mar- tha Ellingson. Bro. Larson Sundayed at Grand Forks and Bro. Lason spent a day in Fargo re- cently. Bro. Neham’s wife is convalescing after a serious operation. Sister Lee was slightly burned when her stove blew up recently. Bro. Smith to St Paul a few days, re- lieved by Sister Kurtz ; Bro. Needham by Bro. Walley, and Bro. Zimkoski, Bremen, called home, relieved by Bro. M. O. Ander- son. Bro. Greear, Walcott off sick, relieved by Relief Agent Bro. Burnes. Bro. Carman to Kindred second few days account sick- ness ; Sister Rich’s little girls sick and Bro. Eiden, Hannaford, down with the grip. Bro. Hoyt Yates, Wahpeton tower, ex- pects to take up a course allowed by gov- ernment for returned soldiers. We were very sorry to learn of the death of Bro. Karra’s wife at Blanchard. Bro. Vandyne is relieving Bro. Ohman, "NI," breaking In on a trick. Sister Arrles is relieving Bro. Vandyne, Breckenridge yard. Sister Haley relieving on third. Watch the new men when they light at your station and get their applications. A. E. Shaw. Northern Division — Get after that fellow next to you and give him no rest until he gets In line. We want to make this division 100 per cent. Bro. Fox, operator "KT," off two days sick. Sisters Bernice M. Scott, Angus, and Grace Brandenburg, with the "flu." Bro. Dewey Stowe called home, owing to serious illness in the family. Brothers, let me have your notes by the 15th of the month, and then I can prepare them for publication. J. T. Majkres, Local Chairman. Terms Division— The "flu” struck this division pretty hard this winter-*- worse than a year ago. Have had a number of men out of service from a month to six weeks. Sister Page from "MS" is working second "A," St. Paul, on account of sickness among the force there. Bra J. R. Mattisen, first Fridley, has been off a month, relieved by Bro. Tenold. Bros. Deri- Digitized by Google

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400 The Railroad Telegrapher. field and Ingerson, Hutchinson, were both off same titne, Bro. M. J. Smith relieving, and Bro. Walker, third Clearwater Junction, was off several nights on account of sickness in his family. Bro. J. B. Conroy, first "S," Minneapolis, off few days account death in family ; also Local Chairman Winne, first Clearwater Junction, attending a funeral at Belvidere, 111. ; latter relieved by Bro. M. J. Smith. All vacancies on this division have been filled, Bro. R. P. Williams drawing "KI," Minneapolis commercial office. , Ckrt. 1991. Minn. & St. Louis R. R., Div. 71. Eastern Division — It is now Bro. S. L. Grelmann on second Rockwell. Faulkner made & telegraph position and Bro. L. R. Bates, the agent, is going out of the business. Eldora second opened also. Dillon agency opened as a telegraph station by Bro. McCullough and a third trick put on, making it a continuous office. Eden and Herman also made telegraph offices. St Benedict has been put in the non-telegraph class. Lacey remains in that class bulle- tined as a telegraph office, but bulletin can- celed. New tricks put on second and third Hanna, Middle Grove, Cramers and Wright, and second at Eldora and Sheffield. ^Bros. Pettit and Withers, Ackley, on sick list former relieved by Bro. Mahoney. Third Abbott closed, Bro. Jacobs doing relief work and Mrs. Davis his relief, on sick list. Edw. Packard, cashier Liscomb Bank, is relieving on second trick there. Bro. Chrisman, agent Albion, relieved by' his wife, is relieving Bro. Lingham, second Marshalltown, on sick list Bro. Cunningham, Lynnville, on the sick list, relieved t# Ed Bray. Bro. W, L. Mahoney is visiting in Wash- ington, D. C., with his old friends, Chairman Morse, Board of Wages and Working Con- ditions, and Director Tyler, Division of Labor. Addendum No. 2 to Supplement 13 allows alf small non-telegraph stations paying $30 to $60 per month, January 1, 1918, prior to the application of General Order 27, 48 cents an hour, raising the wages of a number of this class of stations on our line. General Chairman Gardner relieved at Steamboat Rock by Bro. Finley Morse, is having the provisions of Interpretation 8 applied to all positions coming under it and will have a supplement to our schedule drawn up and signed by the railroad officials, including all callings in rates and rules through decisions of the Board at Wash- ington, so that our schedule will be covered in full and be binding under private con- trol. As soon as practical all rates of pay will be equalized and our members should be patient until this can be accomplished, recognizing the wisdom of the old saying that it is "An ill wind that blows no good.” Bros. Archanbault, Callahan and N. An- derson. Elrick Junction, have taken out annual cards which puts & big smile on "Sandy’s" face. Brothers, if you can’t take out the "yearlies" be sure ta send in your semi-annual dues promptly and don’t forget the 60 cents yearly flower donation. Don’t forget to land hard on the “nona" Land as soon as they light. Send me their names. W. C. McLin, L. C. Central and Western Division— Local Chairman Madden, while sick, was relieved by his brother, G. P. Madden. Bro. L. E. Charabard, agent at Humboldt. Iowa, relieved by Division Agent Stewart, who later relieved Bro. Rhoades, Monterey, off with the "flu." Bro. Granseth, agent Callendar, relieved, same cause, by Bro. Allen, cashier in the bank there. Bro. Johnson, agent Dana, also off with the "flu," relieved by Bro. Boyle. Bro. F. A. Gregg, side table Ford Dodgfc. was off several days recently. G. S. and T. Sandmier and committee met the officials at Minneapolis recently in re- gard to Sunday back pay. The outcome will bo mailed you or appear in next issue. Bro. V. M. Hinds, agent ~Leola, S. D., is relieving agent Aberdeen. The brothers extend their heartfelt sym- pathy to Bro. Johnson, agent Berkley, Iowa, in the death of his wife and daughter, both called to the great beyond Inside of a week, and laid to rest at Livermore, Iowa, their former home. Flowers were sent by th< Order for both. On account of the govern- ment limiting space in our journal, printinp of "In Memoriams" and "Cards of Thanks" had to be discontinued and Bro. Johnson sent a personal letter of thanks to the G. S. and T. and myself for the lovelv floral of- ferings. Brothers, If you cannot spare 60 cents for the flower fund. 25 cents will be greatly appreciated, as every little bit helps in this donation. Help line up the few new men coming on the line. Remember our slogan : "No Wd no favors and live by it. , Csbt. 451. Hudson & Manhattan R. R* Div. 74. If the boys would only try to find tim« for a few hours on our meeting day, I think It would be more benefiting to everyone con- cerned, as you do hot -expect to bear or have a say on the outside. General Chairman Phelps and a few oth<*r brothers attended the funeral services of Bro. Dundon. Bro. I. MacIntyre keeps on the trail, of the trainmaster for his first or third extra work. .oogle Digitized by

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 401 Bro. Williams has sailed for England, relieved on "J" 5 by Harding. "Bon voy- age," Bro. Williams. Bro. Sheevers, answer the phone, 6-30 John. If the members hear anything for publi- cation, send it to me. I will appreciate It. J. Scholz. Chicago & Northwestern, Dlv. 76. Madison Division — On account of the serious illness of his wife, Bro. Fisher, agent Oregon, was re- lieved by Relief Agent Meiers, who also re- lieved Bro. Wilcox, agent Union Center, a few days recently on account of sickness. Bro. A. J. McCulloch, recently returned from U. S. service as radio operator in the navy, has resumed work on Waukesha first, and Bro. Skundberg on Oxford second after a long absence. Bro. M. I. Keefe, relieved a few days on Adams yard second by Bro. I. Childs, Wyeviile yard second. While attending a funeral at Poynette, Bro. Jorgensen, agent Friesland, was re- lieved by Bro. V. E. Motschenbacher, who later relieved at tower "EW." Bro. G. H* Doering, Holmsville agency, re- lieved a few days on account of illness by Miss Gladys Conklin. Pro. A. V. Lyle, Evansville second, re- lieved several days by Operator Vaughn, a new man. Grimshaw, Elroy first, who had his collar bone broken in an accident, relieved by L. Richardson. Bro. Irwin, second there, relieved several days by Bro. L. Reidl, who later relieved Pro. Walter C. Langenhan, while he attended the safety meeting in Superintendent Hayes' office at Baraboo, February 22. Quite a number are ^off sick, including Local 'Chairman Jenks, very ill with the “flu," relieved on Dalton first by Sister Void. His family, too, are all ilL Bro. E. H. Durkopp, Madison third, was the first member to voluntarily remit his local annual dues for 1920. Bro. J. M. Fry, agent North Lowell, had his depot somewhat damages recently, when a train wreck occurred at his station. I am sending out notices for local dues this month to every member, and hope each one will kindly contribute his share. Cert. 917. Freeport and Fox River Lines — Bro. L. C. Hoeft, Carpentersvllle, has gone to Ohio on his honeymoon, relieved by Bro. Lewln, Rochelle. Bro. H. H. Mayer relieved on West Chi- cago third one week, then went to the strong arm job at Bluffs on the West End. Bro. Parrish, first Elgin, is nursing a very sore finger, bitten by one of his giant Bel- gian hares. Practice the ''Vo card, no favors M motto and help to eliminate the "nons" on this diyislon. Let’s have a write-up each month. It looks more progressive. The Wisconsin and Madison Divisions have theirs, why not the Galena? Slim, 1343. Lake Shore Division — Bro. Hansen, third Port Washington, off on account of Frank Maus' death, relieved by Bro. Sundburg, who later relieved Bro. Schroeder, Whiteflsh Bay third, and Bro. Hartsworm, Denmark second, on sick list. Bro. Mohr, * Francis Creek, and Petersen, agent Oconto Falls, also on sick list; former relieved by Bro. Carlson, who later relieved Bro. Smith. Calumet yard owing to the Illness of hi9 wife, and was then called home on account of the death of his mother, relieved by Miss Bennett on third Belgium. We all extend Bro. Carlson our heartfelt sympathy. Bro. McConnel, second Oostburg, was home several days owing to sickness in the family. Bro. Neverman relieved Bro. Brick at Mequon two days, who went home on ac- count of his uncle dying. Bra Sohre, south yard, very sick, relieved by Bros. Markus and Barber, latter from the P. D., and Bro. Johnson's wife is also very sick. Bros. Van Roy and Ivey, Rosemere, both down sick. The Lake Shore sure had its troubles this spring with the 'flu." Fellows, send me some news. R. J. Brick. Ashland Division — Bro. Fletcher, agent Hatley, relieved by Bro. F. E. Coleman, on two weeks’ trip to Chicago. Bro. E. F. Hoppe, extra, relieved Bro. Rawlinson, third Wausau, few nights, and Bro. G. J. Reed, extra, relieved Bro. Moeser, agent Larsen, on account of sickness. Bro. F. Korbish relieved Bro. Penney, agent Bear Creek, and Bro. H. E. Cheese- man relieved Bro. Small, agent Deerbrook, on account of sickness. Bro. H. W. White, Kimberly, relieved Bro. Lethenstrom, first, and Bro. J. N. Bacon relieved Bro. Rowe, second Kaukauna, both being sick. All the extra men are kept busy as most of our men are sick. Bro. C. G. Fuchs, thrid Eland, was re- lieved by Bro. L. P. Albrecht while attend- ing the funeral of his sister, later relieved Bro. Stanisauskis at Sugar Bush. Bro. J. Van Boxtel, Aniwa second, is laying off a month. Digitized by Google

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402 The Railroad Telegrapher. Send* In a few notes to Bro. J. H. Mc- Donough, Li. C., first Clintonville “AS.” Cert. 1535. Wisconsin Division— Bro. Masonic, agent Lake Forest, HI., Is snowed under with orders for his new dish- washing machine, which cleans, rinses and dries the dishes with one operation and one handling. The “flu” caught the family of Bro. Emer- son Skokie and he was off two weeks taking care of them. Bros. Clarke, Kenosha ; Keefe, Erie Street tower, Milwaukee ; Hammond, Lake Bluff, all down with it. No extra men and Bros. Kennedy and Livezey had to double over to protect Bro. Hammond’s trick. Bro. Creighton relieved Bro. Dalmage, Highland Park, 111., several days owing to his father’s sudden death. Bro. P. J. O’Brien, South Upton tower, is off on account of his wife's illness. Bro. Gardner, who relieved Bro. Hyde, Crystal Lake, sick a few days, also relieved Bro. White, second Janesville, owing to the serious illness of his mother in Chicago. Bros. Lester Curtis and Harry Shears, Chicago dispatcher's office, also off several days on account of sickness in their families. It is now “Bro.” Easterday, third “GO,” Chicago. Bro. Harbort has completed learning the towers in the Milwaukee terminal district and is now ready to relieve anyone desirous of getting off. Bro. Russell surface is on a two months’ trip to Washington, D. C., and the Eastern states. There was a very well attended meeting in Milwaukee, Wis., February 8. The Gen- eral Chairman and General Secretary were present with their usual good cheer. Many Interesting topics were discussed. The train connections are such that most everyone can attend who wishes to. We would like to see some of you present who have never been there. Come and get acquainted and you will want to come again. Burley Hanson, who formerly worked on this division and served in the army in France, we understand recently committed suicide at his home in Arkansas. Brothers, when you hear some news chalk it down and slip it to me. J. O. Ricks, Cert. 658. Northern Wisconsin Division — Owing to the seriousness of the “flu” in and around this locality it has been deemed best to not hold meetings for the present However the next one will be another Sun- day affair, as the best results are from the daytime meetings. It will precede the union meeting and business of great importance will be taken up with the members for their consideration. At this time, more than ever before, wt must give special attention to the sound footing of the organization. Never before have we, or will we be called on when thorough organization is so essential as will be in the next year. Efforts are being made to belittle the organised crafts, but with con- fidence in our leaders and everyone working towards the betterment of the men we rep- resent, there is no question but what the dark clouds, as they appear today, will show a silver lining to the telegraphers in the near future. It is impossible to mention all the broth» ers who have been off from one to three weeks on account of the •'flu.” Our sympathy goes out to Bros. King and Haberkorn in the loss of a father and motherv Also to Bro. Yule In the loss of wife and child. The Order sent floral de- signs. Geo. #Yule has been appointed car chaser, a new position created at Fon du Lac in the dispatcher’s office. Make every effort to keep the division lined up to the full per cent mark. P. L. Hashbzst. Peninsula Division— General Secretary and Treasurer Boy- in gt on, under date of January 6, writes ex- plaining Interpretation No. 8, compensation for Sunday work, which will be put Into effect at once, showing by the following ex- amples how to figure back pay for that work ; The basis of compensation for all time worked on Sunday, except emergency calls, to be the pro rata rate in effect Jan uary 1, 1918, and prior to the application of General Order No. 27 to be specific, the sum total of all time worked on 8unday, except emergency calls, whether paid for on pro. rata basis or not, to be added to the year of 1918, monthly compensation and divided by 306 days, the result divided by 8, to which add 15 cents. This will gtre the hourly rate which is retroactive as of October 1, 1918. Example: How much Sunday compensa- tion shall I add to my monthly compensa- tion? Answers ; Schedule provided compensa- tion at pro rata rate therefor 8 a. m. to 10 a. m., 2 hours ; 2 p. m. to ♦ p. m„ 2 hours.' total. 4 hours. Multiply number of Sundays so worked by 4 hours and result by your pro rata rate, add to year '8 compensation, divide by 244 1 and add 15 cents per hour. Question : My week day hours, 8 a. in. to 6 p. m. ; Sunday assigned hours, 8 a. in- to 10 a. m. ; but on different Sundays daring year I was required to work various boon over my assignment. Does the ooiupensa- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 403 tioo earned outside of assigned hours count? If BO at what rate, pro rata or overtime? Answer : Compensation, except emer- gency calls, that you earned on the 62 Sun- days of the year during the week day as- signment the sum total based upon the pro rata rate. Bra Boyington says: “Any information you want pleats do not hesitate to ask for tt.” Using first trick, Waseca, Minn., Minne- apolis Division, Bee page 35 of schedule in effect December 1, 1917 : 137.60 per month times 12 months, 61050. This position assigned and works 8 hours each Sunday during year 1918. Pro rata hourly rate 42 cents per hour. (See table, page 59.) Fifty-two Sundays, 8 hours each, 416 hours at 42 cents per hour, 6174.72—61,224.72. Reduce to hourly rate by dividing by 306 days, the result by 8 hours, or use 306 times 3—2448 hours. 61224.72 divided by 2448 hours— .5002. To this add 15 cents as pro- vided in Supplement No. 13— .6502 or 6514 cents. Understand foregoing example is where po- sition worked full 8 hours each Sunday and 52 Sundays in year. Where positions only worked part of the day add only compensa- tion earned to yearly monthly compensation on basis of pro rata rate. Question: My week day hours were 8 a. m. to 5 p. m. Sunday assigned hours, 8 a. ul to 10 a. m. ; 2 p. m. to 4 p. m. Peninsula Division — Brothers, read the editorial pages of The Telegrapher. They always contain valu- able information. Bros. R O. Larson, second; H. Ramlle, agent, and R. A. Larson, first Little Lake, while down with the “flu” were relieved by Bro. F. J. Ranger. Bro. Rasmussen, second Crystal Falls, aff a few days with the “flu,” relieved by Bro. O. T. Nasberg, and Bro. R. J. Moras, first Hermansville, off sick, relieved by Bro. N. J. Payton. Bro. Kittner, second dispatcher West End Escanaba, sick a few days, was relieved by Bro. Erickson, clip wire relieved by Bro. Eklund, who later relieved Bro. Winthers. agent Vulcan, several days. Bra R. W. Anderson, who relieved Bro. Brukardt. agent Loretto, on a trip to De- troit, later relieved Bro. C. A. Hensen, who relieved Bro. LaLonde, agent Foster City, while undergoing an operation. Later Bro. Hansen reopened second Quinnesec, recently closed temporarily. Brothers, remember that “No card no favor*' to the “nons.” Get a list of them from the Local Chairman and go after them strong. It Is now Bro. C. D. Ferner. Thanks to Bro. Johnson for items. Come again. Several of our brothers are violating Article VIII, section 2, by not turning in their 61.50 per day. J. E. Ranger, Cert. 606. Minnisota Division — Nicollet first and second and second Claremont and Byron discontinued. Billie Murphy, for several years ticket agent at Winona, died there suddenly Feb- ruary 18. His widowed mother has the sympathy of Billie's host of friends. Dispatcher R. M. Morse, from Winona, in military service in Russia for the past tow years, landed at Frisco February 18. Bro. Keefe, Mankato, sick for two weeks, has gone to his old home in Wisconsin for treatment, relieved by Telegrapher Grant. Bro. Nelson, agent Nicollet, relieved by Bro. Allison several weeks while down with the “flu.” Sister Haugen relieved Bro. L. B. Mago, Watertown, who bid in Sanborn second, and Bro. C. W. Schultz, first there, vice Bro. Keefe, to Mankato. Bro. J. D. Walkoskl who has been transferred to this division from the Canadian Northern. Bro. Lingen is back again after a battle with appendicitis. Everyone should keep up to date so that we will be in a position to protect our In- terests at all times. D. J. Mahonht. Eastern Division — Bro. J. R. Cook, first Inman, visited be- tween trains with old friends at Battle Crook and Bro. Tom Hutton, second there, and wife were recent Nellgh visitors. ■ Bro. RIppey and wife, from Atkinson, and Bro. Sauers, agent O'Neill, visited friends in Oakdale recently. H. A. Petersen, off all summer on account of sickness, is now on second Ewing. Clearwater closed several days while Bro. Plavek had the grippe. He was quarantined later on account of smallpox. Bro. Vanderbeek, relieved by Bro. Kocum at Clarkson agency, is now rural mall car- rier out there. Dispatchers Walter Recroft and Robert Mollencoff, South Norfolk, Joined the Masons recently. Bro. Eastlick, second freight yards, was off thirty days recently Bro. Davidson, who relieved Bro. Smith at Creston several days, later relieved Bro. Foster. Plainview, on account of sickness. Bro. Sharp, who has invested in a billiard parlor in Los Angeles, was joined there recently by his wife and two little daughters from Omaha. Bro. Burt Hubbard, second Bonesteel, la now with the “Q” at Crete, Neb. Sister Dorothy Mosher, ill at her home in Digitized by Google

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4 404 The Railroad Telegrapher. Winner for four week*, has returned to the Lincoln University. Bro. Petersen^ West Point, took? Mrs. Petersen to St. Joseph’s Hospital at Omaha, February 3, suffering from partial paralysis for several months. Bro. and Mrs. Whitney were both sick with the Grippe a week, relieved by his daughter, Miss Ruth. Bro. Edens, Verdigree, and Chief Train Dispatcher Larson were also very siok for several weeks. O. L. Briggs, an old-timer on this division, shipped two cars of stock from Inman to South Omaha, Sunday, February 15th. Dispatcher Recroft was off a few days at- tending the funeral of his mother at Nellgh. Bro. Hayes has resigned as train dispatch- er at Casper and resumes on first Norfolk. I am indebted to Miss Ruth Whitney, Bat- tle Creek; Bro. Williams, Norfolk, and Bro.' Kuntzleman, at Charleston, for part or these items. I wrote to every station between Winner and South Norfolk and received one reply from Bro. Hagerman at Niobrara. I wrote to a great many stations on the Lincoln, Hastings and Superior line and received only one reply from Bro. Kuntzleman at Charles- ton. Also wrote to a good many main line stations and on the Albion line, but not a word in reply. If I have butted in and started something that no pne cares anything about I want to stop it, so I would be glad to hear from some of you as to how you feel about it. Thanks to the boys who sent me items this month. Anything mailed to me at Inman before the 20th I will be very glad to set C. J. Smith, Cert. 2745, Inmar, Neb. Texas & Pacific Ry., Div. 88. E da ter Division — Bro. C. A. Propst, manager Longview Junction for several years, died at Marshall Hospital. February 16th. He entered the service of the T. & P. July 1st, 1886, and was well known, respected and beloved by all his fellow workers. Those he left be- hind have our sympathy in their bereave- ment. Send your time slips to the superintendent for adjustment of Interpretation 3, Supple- ment 13, General Order 27. Bros. Mallory, Division 19, J. H. WU- - Hams, A. F. Rice and Tucker were off with the “flu” several days. Bro. Fallin also sick a few days. General Chairman Abney spent several days on the Louisiana Division recently. Several nons along the line. You brothers next to them get busy. I have been appointed assistant local chairman and correspondent for this divi- sion. Send your notes to me in time so I can arrange and get them to St Louis be- fore the 25th. Y. C. Rat. Cert 510. Marshall, Texas. Eastern Division Notes — Bro. Roberts, second Gladewater, relieved a few days by a new man ; Bro. Kingston, third Mlneola, spent several days around Elmo, relieved by Bro. Ray, third Hoard, and Bro.' Speer, second Big Sandy, relieve! a few days by Holland. Bro. Williams from *‘AF” was over in Ft Worth recently. Boys on the Marshall Sub, send me a few items each monjh to Hawkins. Let’s have a good write-up. Keep after the new men on the division. If not up to date, advise the local chairman and help us make it 100 per cent strong. A. L. B.. Cert 670. Joint Track and T. C. Division— Bro. J. S. Wilson bid in Denton third Bro. and Mrs. J. E. Flory relieved on Au- brey second and third a few days by Steven- son and Sister Cogdell. Latter now us Roanoke third. Bros. Boone and Howell new man on second, and Sister Grace Bond on Argyle second. Bro. Fox relieved Garner, Tioga first *» few days. Bro. Porter on third. Bro. Morohan, Whites boro third, off sev- eral days owing to the death of a relative, relieved by Nichols. Bro. Weems, East Yard, Fort Worth sec- ond, relieved by Bro. Ebbs a few days. Bro. Dellinger relieving agents at Brooks- ton and DeKalb. Bros. Lowery. Paris third, and Chambers, Bonham second, relieved by Western Union men while off sick. Boys, when any of you lay off, find out if your relieving man has a card and drop me a note at “NY.” Help me to have this write-up correct every month. “NY** Relay— Bro. Roy Hodge, bumped from second by Sam Wallace, returning, bumped Bro Ralph Nixon from General Chairman Ab- ney’s Job, who is still off on O. R. T. busi- ness. "West End — Sister O’Reilly, Tremble second, relieved by C. B. Sanslng two weeks on account of sickness. Sister Morrison, Benbrook third, was in the hospital several days with the “flu.” Bro. .Nelson, Weatherford first off a few days on account sickness. Bro. Read taking first ; Sister Cogdell and Mrs. McMurray working third ; Bro. Rumfleld relieving Bro Read on second a few days while .visiting Joint track. Local Chairman Canafax relieved several Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 405 nights by Bro. Bourland Trom M. W. & X. W. Sister Shelton, Division 163, to Millsap third, vice Bro. Flanigan, off to Santo sec- ond; later to third there, vice Bradford to hospital, vice Bro. Maples to Mingus third, vice Bro. Stover to extra board. Bros. J. S. Mitchell and B. C. Herndon to Gordon second and third. Miss Violet DeJean off sick; Bro. Bierly to Putnam third. Bro. Blackburn, Eastland second, relieved a few days by J. M. Borland. Mrs. Sorensen, Olden first, resigned. R. L. Denton, Cert 532. Rio Grande Division— Bro. V. Andrews Is back on Westbrook agency. The Chamber of Commerce, the Mayor and City of Clyde gave a reception there recently in honor of Bro. Lester Wise, who bid in second. Pecos City Is on the list for oil. increas- ing business and opening a new trick there, Bro. Wyldie Reynolds, on second for twenty years, “landing" it taking the tickets and telegraph work off of Bro. Littlefield, agent. Bro. Paul Frame Is on second and Bro. “Pat” Harrison on third. Local Chairman Jones has been confined to bed for some time. We wish £lm a speeuy recovery. Bro. Caldwell, Colorado third, is on the sick list, relieved by Bro. Woods. Brothers, send me a few notes. Let’s hear from some of you boys east of Big Spring. J. B. Jarrell, Box 77, Monahans, Texas. Buffalo, Roch. & Pittsburgh Ry.f Div. 92. Buffalo Division A fine meeting was held In Seider’s Hall, Springvilie, on the afternoon and evening of January 29th ; twenty-two members pres- ent Including General Chairman Eastman and Local Chairman Abbott Much impor- tant business was handled and Bro. Eastman gave us a splendid talk on matters pertain- ing to the Order. It was resolved that when bids were mailed to the chief dispatcher, a copy should be also sent Local Chairman Abbott If this had been done before It would have saved the recent unpleasantness at “AD” tower between Bros. Connors and Wooden. Bro. Ed. Fleckenstein and Sister Jennie Smith of Beaver, ‘married at Cojden on Jan- uary 22nd, will work Hoyts first and second, respectively. The officers and members of Division 92 extend hearty congratulations and best wishes to them for a long life of happiness and prosperity. We are 100 per cent solid on this division, with the exception of four men, one of whom has his application in. The others are the agents at Great Valley, Ellicottville and Orchard Park. We hope they will show their appreciation for the back pay the Or- der secured for them and join us in the near future. The father-in-law of Bro. R. Kells of Col- den died February 1st and was buried Feb- ruary 3rd at Sayre, Pa. Bro. H. V. Murray, agent at Colden, has a motor attached to his speeder, which en- ables him to live in Glenwood and reach his work in good shape. Will try and keep up the Buffalo Division notes as well as possible if I can get a lit- tle assistance along the line. Cbrt. 402. Chicago Great Western Ry., Div. 96. The few brothers who have not paid dues yet should remember that now is the time we should all stick and make ours a 100 per cent organization. Remember, absolutely, “No card, no favors.” It Is now Bro. C. C. Boyd, Afton Junction, making that station solid. Bro. F. C. McCullough. Marshalltown, now with the Wright Construction Company at Des Moines, says he will always carry his up-to-date card. Cert. 28. Northern Division — Bro. Erickson, second Sumner, being re- lieved by Bro. Stradling, understand will re- turn with a Mrs. Erickson. The new men on the division are coming in as fast as they show up, if they are not already up to date. Any brother knowing of a new man who is not a member, kindly give me his name. If he carries a card in another division, give me also the number and the number of his card, so we can trans- fer him to Division 96. Any who have not paid current term dues should remit at once. There have been several changes of late, but as Bro. Rawlins does not print vaca- tions, assignments, etc., there is no use quoting them for publication. We are in fine shape on this division now and also on the system as a whole. Let everyone sit steady and keep the good work up to the present standard. Cert. 38. Western Division — Our regular meeting was called at Ft. Dodge, Sunday, January 25, and despite de- layed trains, quite a few of the brothers came. Exprees Auditor Ownsby enlightened us on the proper way of handling the American Railway Express Company's business. .General Chairman Coleman read letters regarding the ten-dollar proposition and ex- plaining the situation fully ; also gave a good talk on the membership of our organi- zation, which our chairman and his assist- ants want to back him up in. It would be Digitized by VjOOQlC

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406 The Railroad Telegrapher. a very serious mistake for anyone to drop out on account of the ten dollar business. Now, more than ever before, is the time when every man should stand behind the Order that has fought for him and stay or- ganized. The secretary was instructed at the meet- ing to draw up resolutions and mail them to the bereaved family of Bro. R. L. Deg- roodt, deceased, former agent at Kansas City, who died recently at the home of his parents in Austin, Minn. General Chairman Coleman attended his funeral at that place. The resolutions were made up and mailed accordingly. Any notes you brothers can send me will be appreciated. G. R. Hoibinoton, Cert 169, Assistant Local Chairman, 2028 Fourth Ave., So., Ft. Dodge, la. Duluth, So. Shore & A. Ry„ Div. 116. Twenty-two members attended the Hough- ton meeting at the Douglas House, Sunday, February 16th, brothers coming from all parts of the line. I was unable to attend op account of other business. Bro. Thebert, agent Bessemer, has gone Into the auto business. Bro. Con Becker has returned from Rochester, Minn., all O. K. again. Dispatcher A. C. Landry has returned from Portland, Ore., after a three-months* leave. Dispatcher Landry is convalescing from the “flu” in St. Mary’s Hospital. The new transportation rules went into effect January 25th. Bro. T. J. Glenny is back at Lower Yards after several days’ illness, but Bro. T. J. Valley, Brlmley, is still on the sick list. Bro. Rlordon has taken first Trout Lake, so as to be home, relieved by Deasy at Chaspell. Remember, "No card , no favors ,M N. H., Cert 215. “Soo Line” R. R.f Div. 119. Chicago Division, Northern District — Dispatchers* district shortened, new set working from Irvine to Withro and from Owen to Superior; Bro. Clausen on first, re- lieved at Irvine by Bro. Hansen from Chip- pewa Falls, and he by Bro. Nelson from Stanley. Bro. G. W. Welsch, second Chip- pewa Falls, relieved by Sister Johnson and Bro. Wollobon by Jenkins at Marshfield ; both go to Stevens Point side wire. Bro. Pagneau goes to third Stevens Point and Bro. Boetcher to Marshfield agency. Bro. Harless relieved Scoonover, a new man at Gloster, who went to third Aubumdale. Bro. Smith, second Colfax, relieved a few days by Miss Martinson. Three tricks put on at Chelsea, Gilman, Milladore. Gordon, Olid den, Thorpe and Stone Lake, Bro. Larson taking latter; Hebert, & new man, going to Sheridan. Bro. L. Minsball. second Abbottaford, re- lieved several days by Sister Kastrow, while getting married. Congratulations. I was called away recently, owing to death in the family. Thanks to Bro. Clark, Gloster, for notes. If you will all send me a few every month we can have a write-UR in the Journal regu- larly. “Buck," Cert. 660. Chicago Division , Southern District — We extend our sincere sympathy to Bro. A. J. Lutz, agent Wheeling, and Bra J. A Fonstad, agent Stockton, owing to the re- cent death of their wives. Bro. Forstad was relieved by Bra LepinskL Bros. Meacham. second Lake Villa, and 8herwood, third “KY.** were off two weeks with the “flu,” latter relieved by Bra Yang- gen. Bro. Kurtzwell, who relieved Bra J. M. Philippi, agent Lake Villa, several week*, also relieved Bro. Larsen, agent Fremont, a few days. Bro. W. R. Jahns. relieving several day* in “FN,” was relieved by third Fond du Lac by Bro. Steeves and Sister JahnQ. Let me have your news about the 16th to the 18th and we will have a write-up each month. N. J. Frost, L. C. Lake Erie & Western R. ft., Div. 12a With deep regret we learned of the death of General Superintendent Dyer, February 2nd. He came from a family of telegraph- ers, both his father and mother having at one time worked at it, and a sister and brother are still telegraphing. He was a man of exceptional executive ability and loved by all who knew him. F. J. DeGrief succeeds him at Tipton. We are also grieved to relate the sudden death of Bro. Shepard at Rankin the night of February 11th. He was well liked by *U who knew him and a very proficient teleg- rapher. Bro. Gillespie relieved Bra Turner at Am- bia when he went to Washington, D. <L committee work. Bra Tom Drake is dispatching at Lima. Bro. Combs, first Tipton Yards, Is being congratulated upon the arrival at a baby girl. The spirit of brotherhood and fraternal!**** was recently manifested by the member* by a liberal contribution for a brother stfiai on the Fort Wayne Division, who has be» ill for some time. Digitized by Googk

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The Rail bo ad Telegraphed. 407 The non at Tipton yards recently wrote ihe chief dispatcher inquiring when he was to receive more pay. Cert. 73. Lehigh Valley R. R.f Div. 124. Buffalo Division — The meetings on this division should be better attended. The boys should get to- gether and talk things over, so they can understand the situation. We only hold these meetings once a month. What bet- ter news can come to the management of any concern where organized labor is em- ployed than that the men are indifferent about meeting to discuss grievances. If we are going to attain anything better on the L. V. R. R., or hold what we now have, every man must put forth a little more energy and spend a few hours each month trying to strengthen our foundation on the Lehigh Valley now. It may not be so easy later on. - Bro. Cleveland, incorporated in our sched- ule, recently, secured over $400 back pay. Bro. Brewster, crew dispatcher, and Mooney, second "UF,M also got a nice slice. Bro. Powers now has three in the family all told. Congratulations. Bro. Jack Duggan bid in second trick copier in ”DB.” Ryan is still outside willing to take what- ever increase we get for him and hoping for more. E. L. Conlon, Cert 263, Buffalo, N. Y. Auburn Division — February 16, 1920, will be remembered for a long time. There was *• some f* snow and wind. The next meeting will be held at Freeville, Sunday, April 18th. Bear this in mind as no postal notices will be sent out. Don’t forget to notify Bro. Yontz if you wish dinner at the hoteL Bro. Mott has reumed to South Bay after •pending a month in Florida. Mrs. Alpha Hicks, daughter of Bro. Clark of Ensenore, died on February 3rd. We ex- pressed our sympathy in flowers, for which Bra Clark sent a splendid letter bf thanks. “Bro. Lloyd Webster, extra, who relieved Bra Welser awhile in January, has been awarded Aurora agency. Bro. Shakespeare, operator there, has resigned. We still have two nons. Remember, “No card, no favors \n Some of the brothers are forgetting that motto. Cebt. 280. Benoea Division — Ws were very sorry to hear of the death of Bra Baker's mother and Bro. Smith’s wife. These brothers extend the members their thanks for sympathy and floral remem- brances. Bro. Thomas Grady bid in clerk-teleg- rapher and C. R. Bradley resumed the agency at Geneva freight house, which has been consolidated with the New York Cen- tral for the past two years, and Bro. R. M. Sayre, third Ithaca, bid in third Geneva Junction. Four new members secured during Jan- uary and we have the applications of the two assistant ticket agents at Sayre and Ithaca, which makes this division nearly solid. I have offered my services as corre- spondent of this division, a position General Secretary and Treasurer Crane has been try- ing to All for several months. I wrote ten of the brothers, requesting news fom their localities, but never heard a word from any of them, perhaps owing to a lack of mate- rial. Get in the habit of sending in your items while fresh In your mind. It only takes a minute to dash them down and yodr support will be greatly appreciated. These items should reach me not later than the 16th of each month. W. J. Hanley, Cert 847. Geneva, N. Y. C.f R. I. & P. Ry., Div. 126. General Offices — Topeka Supt Hood called a meeting of managers here during the week of Febru- ary 22. Bro. Brown Goodland bid In at Hailey- ville; Bro. Powers working as third trick; Bro. Price, of Limon, as night chief dis- patcher, and Bro. Jones off with the flu. Bro. Manion has moved Into his new bun- galow; Bro. Stansberry has two bugs now; some of the boys In "GO” say he could use one more very handily. The stock yards bill, an antl-proflteerlng measure, was up for consideration the last day of the session. Senator Getty, of Wyan- dotte, who was ill and unable to attend, asked that the bill be not passed, and the morning paper stated: "Many of the sena- tors are going to vote against the bill for that reason. Deep emotion was expressed by several members as they explained that their feelings In regard to Senator Getty compelled them to be against the bill. Not the stock- yards lobby, but their respect for Getty, it was made plain, was the real reason for the opposition to the bill.” And they call them- selves statesmen. Look them over, brothers. You all havo a vote this fall, as well as your wives, moth- ers, sisters and sweethearts. Elect the right men next time. Our one best bet is the ballot. Interpretation No. 8 caused more dissatis- faction than anything coming out of Wash- ington so far; but did some good also. ”So it’s an ill wind that blows no good.” Pay Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. your dues, stick to the old ship and we will ultimately reach the harbor safely. R. D. Stover, Local Chairman. Missouri Division — Bro. Wells, who relieved Bro. White on Eldon first a few days ago, goes to third and J. C. O’Brien to second Letts, new Jobs. Understand a new trick will soon be put on at Ainsworth. Bro. C. C. Bowers relieved Bro. Chumbley, second Mayville, a few days, while visiting his parents, at Numa, and Bro. Hickson re- lieved Bro. Luse on, third Centerville, while he was dispatching on second Trenton- Bro. “Si” Lowe is now manager of tho Co-operative Store at Trenton. The candidates for local chairman are: Bros. J. H. Krusor, now filling the unexpired term of Bro. Dean; W. H. Plum and F. H. Strong. Send your notes to Bro. Kruser at Ailer- ton, or mail them to Box 63, Udell, Iowa. Cert. 8194. Kansas Division — • Three new members and two transfers added to our list during January. Receiv- ing three for every month in the year would make us a good increase, and a good show- ing of 140 positions, nearly a 100 per cent membership. This is certainly a showing to be proud of. Boys, get after the none next to you. and give him absolutely no rest until he comes in. This is one of the largest divisions on the system, and being cut up, it is impos- sible for me to get to all of the men on the wire, so ask that you personally assist me in making it 100 per cent. All the work has to be done by correspondence after my regular hours, late into the hours of the night when most of you are asleep. Let us try and make this the best year in our his- tory. Bro. Burkett, first Wellington, received the sad news of his brother’s death in Colorado. He has our sympathy in his bereavement. Bro. Keplinger back at Clyde after being off almost a year with the “flu.” Bro. Hal lock, agent Horton, was off a few days on account of sickness. I spent several Sundays in January at Herington, handling grievances, as Sunday is the only available day* to get out over the line. If you have grievances of any sort, please send them to me. Watch your dues and do not become de- linquent; that yearly card is a grand thing. Take out one, pay up promptly, save delay and expense to the division. M. W. Shaw, Local Chairman. Iowa Division*— The chronic delinquent complains the most and next to the non-member does the least good. The up-to-date member gener- ally realizes that our officers are doing the very best for us that can be done, go about their business in a businesslike way and back their officers to the best of their abili- ty, quietly, but with a grim determination to see them through, and are always ready to do anything they can to help the cause along. If you do hot. like the way our officers do things tell them so, and in meetings voice your opinions, but don’t “knock” and pro- claim your grievances from the house tops, nor make remarks calculated to make the weak-kneed member weaker still. The way to get results is to encourage and back your officers. They will appreciate it If any of you do not like the foregoing, I hope it will make you mad enough that you will pay up and never become delinquent again. I have been studying for several years how to keep you all up-to-date. It’s now Bro. J. E. Thompson, Shelby sec- ond; Bro. Harry Bartell. Commerec second, and Bro. Chas. P. Berger, agent South Amana. All new positions in our lisL Bro. Moore, second Newton, visiting sev- eral weeks in New England, relieved by Bro. Walls, who also relieved Bro. McBee at Adair and Bro. Yunker, Newton third. Bro. A. E. Edwards bid in Boonevillc agency. Over 140 positions on this division now and its some Job to keep tab on all the changes and new-comers. Your assistance will be appreciated. I thank those who pent rqe news items and hope you will continue the good work. Mail your check for that new card today if you have not already done so. H. N. Dutton, Local Chairman. Des Moines Valley — I was ill for two weeks and unable to gather any items for this issue. With the assistance of our good members, I hope to have a better write-up next month. I wish to express my gratitude for the beautiful flowers and good wishes sent W while sick. Little we realize the cheer it brings to us and the comfort it spreads over a household to know yd feel that someone thinks of us. -May we In all places and in all seasons as an order always be able to extend light and flowers to each and all teaching through them how akin they are to human things. Bessie V. Funk. Cert 781. Louisiana Division — Brothers, we still have >a few delinquents. You know who they are. Let's make it hot Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 409 for them. We must bring them in and make this year & record breaker. Quite a number of the brothers attended our meeting in El Dorado, February 7. Much good is done at these meetings. All of you who can should attend. We are anticipat- ing a good dinner for all of our brothers it. the near future, with a good program. Brothers, be patient These inequalities in our latest rate of pay will be straightened out in the near future. Brother M. L. Loventhal, of Calion, was a recent Little Rock visitor. Don’t forget your income tax, brothers. There is a targe penalty for negligence in filing the affidavit Cert. S429. C., B. & Q. R. R., Div. 130. Relay Division — Since January we have taken in a large number of new members, and now have less delinquents than at any previous time in the history of the organization on the Burling- ton. This indicates that the members are taking an active interest in the work of or- ganizing and are awakening to the fact that we must have a solid front in order to in- sure proper protection. We have many irons in the lire at this time, some of which are bound to bring beneficial results. Those who have not supported the organization before should commence now and thereby show their appreciation for what we have done c_ for them. Owing to the inequalities created by the application of Interpretation No. 8 there ap- pears to be a disposition on the part of some to place the blame for its acceptance on the organization. The O. R. T. never had an opportunity to agree or disagree on this document before it reached the railroads and was ordered into effect. After it was handed to us it was our business to get together with the officials and apply the order in the best possible manner without violating its intent It would have been poor policy for the organization to have said, “Here, take this back, we don’t want' it.” That may be perfectly agreeable to the other party. Of course we wanted It, because it brought something to the membership. Although it did not treat all alike, that would be no grounds for holding some individuals down. The maximum increase per hour was 12 . cents. Every member ought to have received that amount and then some added to It, if Justice was done. It should be plainly understood that O. R. T. officials are not in the habit of agree- ing to anything unless it is their own pro- posal. Concessions for the membership are always, accepted but never agreed to. If an employer has power to grant a conces- sion he has the same power to take it away. So it is generally good judgment to accept everything you get in the line of advance- ment. J* J* Rose. Aurora Division— It is now Bros. D. E. Watson, Hinsdale Tower; Fred O’Kane, Shabbona, and Bill Corcoran, Oregon. Bro. Sanford, off two weeks with the “flu,” and his wife with pneumonia, are con- valescing. Bro. Cowels died Saturday, February 7tb. of the “flu.” . General Secretary and Treasurer Rogers, Lacrosse, was very sick for ten days owing to the death of his wife, as noted in Lacrosse notes, page 273, January Telegrapher. She was burled at Ljmxville, Wis., January 26th. General Chairman Denton left for Colo- rado Springs, February 6th, to attend the funeral of his younger brother. Bro. Cummings is now at Millington and Lehman at Meriden. Boys, get busy on the latter at once. He has never had a card. Also get busy on the nons between Berwyn, I1L, and Galesburg. I will send a list to those of you who will promise to try and land them. Bro. Brough of LaSalle is now on second Mendota and Bro. Radcliffe at Wyanet. Bro. Stevens relieved Bro. Todd while he was helping Bro. Denton at Chicago to check up new schedule. Cert. 5. Beardstoxcn Division — Sister Potts makes Whitehall every Wednesday for her music lesson. Sister Wil- son is off again, relieved by a farmer non* Bro. V. I. Ball, while off on account or sickness, relieved by Sister Weeks, who later relieved Bro. Teague, Block 104, when called to East St Louis on account of death. Bro. “Jimmy” Rogers has our sincere sym- pathy in the loss of his wife. Remit your flower fund dues to Bro. H. R. Anderson, Whitehall, 111. Bro. Kell, Centralia Yard, relieved a few days by Bro. Fite, a new man. Bros. Robert and Arthur Livesey and Clyde Davis were off a few days on account of the death of Bro. Roberts' mother. He has our heartfelt sympathy in his bereave- ment Bro. Merlon, Walnut Grove, has trans- ferred to this division. Beardstown Yard office opened again by Bros Wright. McDowell and Henderson. Bro. Orr, Medora, relieved Bro. Davis at Swan Creek a few days while on vacation. C. W. McConnell, L. C. Galesburg Division, Quincy Branch— Bro. Moore, third Abingdon, relieved by Sister Pringle from the East St Augustine third closed ten days owing to shortage of operators. Digitized by Google

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410 The Railboad Teleobapheb. Bro. Gibbs. agent Coatsburg, and Bro. Connors, of Bardolph, off sick, latter relieved by Bro. J. Stout, phoner from Henderson. Bro. F. J. Graves, first Abingdon, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Herron, agent La Prairie, who later relieved Bro. Adams, seo- ond Bushnell, on sick list, and first and sec- ond trick men there doubling. Sister Spurgeon of Avon relieved Rose on Abingdon second. Bro. Fosdycke and wife, Fall Creek, spent Sunday recently with their parents in Augusta. Bro. H. McVay, third Augusta, was ofT several days owing to the death pf his sis- ter, first and second trick men doubling to protect third until relieved by Bro. C. K. Gookins. Bro. J. H.' Weir, third Plymouth, off a few days sick, relieved by Bro. Swearingen. No notes received from Peoria Branch or North End. H. L. Thompson, A. L. C., Cert 958. La Crosse Division — The “flu” invaded this division again and even with an extra list of eleven men it was necessary to close some of the offices on ac- count of so many being sick at the same time. Bro. McCarthy, third Fountain City, was • off two days. Bro. J. F. Tucheck is being relieved two months by Bro. S. W. Tucheck, relieved at Minneapolis by Bro. Miller. See that the man working with you has an up-to-date and keep the division solid. That's what counts. Thanks to Bros. Smeltzer and White for this write-up. Come again. Cert. 227. Hannibal Division — Bro. Kranz, second North St. Louis, sick, and Bros. Poison and Clendening doubled several days. Bros. English and Brower of Baden doubled a few days while Bro. Pal- mer .was sick, and Bro. Brower was relieved later by Bro. Hawkins on account of sick- ness. Bros. Thompson and White, of Firma, both sick, office closed several days, no oper- ators available. Bro. Hackamack, agent New Truxton, was relieved for few days by Sister Brower. It is now Sister Sherry, Saverton, and Bros. Hart. Old Monroe, and Hawkins, West Quincy. Bro. Roy Cluck, agent Mark, Mo., is working as third trick dispatcher at the latter point. Calli® Mats, L. C. Bt. Joseph Division — Bro. J. D. McCandlish, Craig second, off with sprained back caused by handling bag- gage, relieved by Bro. M. D. Elder. Bro. B. C. Stevens, McPaul, in hospital at County Bluffs on account of paint poisoning settling in his eyes. Bro. T. M. Hood, for- mer agent McPaul, relieving him. Bro. W. L. Burgess, first Murray Tower, on sick list, relieved by his brother, T. E. Burgess, of second the^e. We all extend our sympathy to Bro. Rogers and daughter Vivian in their great loss. A beautiful floral offering was sent Bro. Rogers by the brothers of this division. Our flower fund is getting low. Please re- mit what you can to Bra Arnold, Hamburg. L. J. Millbr, Coin, Iowa Burlington Division — Bro. R. H. Stout off a few days with the “flu,” relieved by Bro. T. H. Holland. Bro. Owens, at Tracy, while down with it was relieved by W. B. Stone, an old C. R. L ft P. man. out of service several years, who also relieved Bro. Oliver, on a tritf South. Bro Smith is back at Winfield after a siege with the “flu*” Bro. H. B. Graham, off few days visiting home folks, relieved by Bro. T. H. Holland. We are mighty near solid. Don’t let your dues get behind. The time has come when anything less than 100 per cent is dangerous. Our flower fund has only $2.25 in it A few of the boys have sent in 50 cents and a dollar. Won’t the rest of you do likewise so we can buy a few flowers for our broth- ers when in distress, as long as no one is called on to huy flowers for us. It is a good *plan to have a little money in this fund for use on short notice. Also send what you can to help carry Bro. Clark's insurance. I have remitted for this term, but will soon have to remit again. You remember Bro Clark is totally blind now and cannot earn anything ,and if his insurance is permitted to lapse he cannot be reinstated. Send me what you can for these two funds and I will see that you are credited with the amount and that the money goes for what you wish. Don’t forget that there Is an election this fall. Get busy at the primaries. Reward the friends of labor and see that the torn who fought everything that would help ua stays at home regardless of his party brand. Take a leaf from the foes of labor, forget party, and elect the men who will give us a square deal. J. F. Fbain, L. C., Cert I. Ottumwa Division— Bro. Stafford is back at Chariton after a long visK' to California points. Bro. Lowery was sick two days, causing myself and Bra Wilson to double owing to shortage of operators. We were all sorry to hear of General Sec- retary and Treasurer Rogers' bereavement in the death of his wife. He has the sym- pathy of the entire membership ; also extend the same to Bro. Rector, whoee mother wa» killed in an auto accident at Ottumwa. Digitized by Googk

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411 The Railroad Telegrapher. We are In need of more flower funds and ask you all to remit as promptly as possible not lees th*n ,50 cents a year. Some of the boys have remitted that amount and some more, but we have many calls for flowers and we should have a good fund to draw on. W: C. Harrell, A. L. C. Creston Division — Bro. Willis M. Fleming, former agent Hop- kins, Mo., who has been sick for four years, died on February 2nd. I secured a beautiful pillow of flowers for his funeral emblazoned with our emblem, O. R. T., Division 130. Bro. Fleming was a faithful employe of the C. B. & Q. for 22 years. Get that non beside you and the delin- quents to pay up. I secured three applica- tions recently. We must line up solidly. It is now Bros. Hendrix. Kent, Iowa j Dlnsmore, Balfour, Iowa, and Noles, as- sistant agent, Hopkins, Mo. uNo card, no favor*.9* M Bro. Dan Gleason is back at "KI” after six months in "CR" relay. Give Bro. Pace your items. J. C. Overmikr, L. C. Creston Division Notes — Bro. J. H Reppart, agent on the Ama- sonia Branch, was off several days with heart trouble. Bro. Hull, at Pickering, while off sick re- lieved by Bro. C. C. Berry. Arkoe station closed several days on ac- count of the shortage of men. It is now Bros, Dlnsmore, Balfour; Hen- drix, Kent and Noles, assistant agent Hop- Klua. Bro. Turnbull, while relieving in the cltjr office, was relieved by Bro. Kunze at Red Oak. No news mler. from anyone except Bro. Over- Cbrt. 1608. Lincoln Division — Our new schedule to hand; while it may prove rather disappointing to some, it is better than none, and the inequalities that exist In it will no doubt be adjusted as quickly as possible, so hang on to your card and saw wood. It is now Bro. R. H. Jones, second Milford, landed by Bro. Hargitt ‘ Bro. Veto relieving Bro. Yerkes at Phil- lips. Bro. Yerkes closed second Murphy a few days. Mrs. Beatty relieved Bro. Hau- derscheldt, relieved by Mrs. Beatty on first Cobb several days. Bro. C. F. Coffman has sold his residence at Horace. _ _ . . Bro. F. D. Chadwick motored to Holstein to look It over before bidding on it. Bro. C. A. Smith is back at Juniata and Sister Davis, his relief, back to Aurora. Bro. H. T. Jackson, former agent Lowell, and Bro. R. A. Steenbock, from the Sterling division, are now the regular relief agents for this division, so don’t be afraid to lay off. Bros. R. B. Silvers, Sutton; M. Patterson, York, and C. S. Hager, Loup City, took the Scottish Rite work at Hastings recently, and Bro. Pete Miller, assistant Y. M. Hastings, finished up, relieved by Bro. Van Camp, of ^Bros. Todt, third Sutton; Deeder, third Harvard; Scmer, second Fairmont; Free- man, second Exeter Tower, all back after a siege with *‘flu.” A. A. Canfield. Alliance Division, East End — Bro. Vick Herncall resigned; going into implement business at Ulysses. Bro. Webb relieved . Bro. Davis, agent Hazard, account sickness, and Bro. Perrin, agent Whitman, by Bro. “Si” Kipg. relieved by Bro. Webb on second Whitman. Bro. Kennedy, agent Ellsworth, while in Washington, D. C.. relieved by Bro. Steward, relieved by Bro. Bailey on second Ellsworth. Bro. Jones, agent Hyannls, visiting ir. California, relieved by Bro. Harkleroad. Bro. Hilly er working In “J." relieved by Bro. Gorman on third Seneca, later to Lake- side third, relieved by B^o. Williams. C. O. Madden, Seneca, Neb. Alliance Division , West End — > Sister Graham just returned to third Hem- ingford after three months' illness, relieved Bro. Tooley, first there, while he was off get- ting married. Bro. Parkington is back on second there, Bro. Morgan going to Antioch. Sister Hane relieved Bro. Young on third Hemingford and Bro. Young on third Rut- land awhile and then went to Mullen. Sister Pearl Shaul is back on third Mars- land. Bro. Van Voorhls, agent Edgemont, re- lieved a few days by Bro. Cochrane, third Crawford, and Bro. Stewart from Ellsworth relieved Bro. Triggs, third Edgemont, sev- eral days while he had the "flu.M Sister Knox, third Orella, is recovering from a fractured kneecap. Local Chairman Davis, first Crawford, who has been ofT about a year on account of sickness, expects to resume duty April 1. Bro. Harper relieved Bro. Hawley while his children had scarlet fever and he was quarantined. Understand Sister Pearl Schofield, third Marsland, was married recently to Mr. Ar- thur Shaul, of Irwin, Neb. Congratulations. Cert. 2578. Wymore Division— We extend our sympathy to Gen. Secre- tary and Treasurer Bro. Rodgers, in the ■ Digitized by tjOOQle

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412 Thh Railboad TeleqbapheB. death of his wife at La Crosse, Wls. ; also General Chairman Bro. Denton, in the loss of his brother from pneumonia, and Brother Menefee, at Chenney, owing to the death of his wife from influenza. The brothers affected by Interpretation No. 8 have received their back pay and in- crease in rates, which was greatly appre- ciated. Our new schedule, now being printed, of which all will receive a copy, will include this interpretation. Our officials have been in Washington recently, trying to have all the rates of pay equalized. Cbrt. 842. McCook Division— Bro. Harris, agent Alma, bid back Dan- bury Station, vice Bro. Castelio, who went to McCook Relay. Bro. Sanborn, who returned from eighteen months’ overseas service, with his bride, and bid in third Tuma, while at Hudson several nights fell from the top of the tank while adjusting the water guage, sustaining two broken limbs and several fractured ribs. He was taken to Denver hospital and wishes to thank the brothers for the money and flowers they have sent him and his wife. The B. of R. T. brothers also called and sent him flowers. - Our sympathy is} extended to Brother Peterson, operator Riverton, who was called to Max on account of the sudden death of his father. Bro. Parkin, agent Parks, is back after a two-months’ vacation in Florida. Bro. Jones, third Bcklsy, was married re- cently. Bro. Hecker relieved Bro. Strong on third Pinneo, who has gone to Wyoming to home- stead a farm. Bro. Crane, agent PInnor, and Bro. Two- mey, agent Hudson, spent several days at the Denver stock show. Let us all help our new chairman, Bro. Beezley. There is lots of work to do. We must stick by our leaders and everything will be straightened up satisfactorily. Let us get our local chairman to call a meeting, get better acquainted, and arrange to line up the few nons left. J. H. (Jnoer, Cert. 3227. Sterling Division — If a telegrapher, assigned one or moro hours of duty on Sunday, upon arriving at the office is notified to work through full 8 hours, same as on week days (assuming week-day assignment to be from 8 a. m. to 4 p. m., Sunday assignment 8 a. m. to 10 a. m. and" from 2 p. m. to 4 p. m.), if noti- fied upon starting to work that he will work through from 8 a. m. to 4 p. m. and is paid on a straight hourly basis for the Sunday work, he is entitled to receive one call at time and one-half time for two hour*, and six hours at regular hourly rates, ore call at the commencing of his hour of duty on Sunday, unless regularly assigned the same hours on Sunday as on week days, the same arrangement will apply on holi- days. Make out your* overtime slips ac- cordingly. v Bro. McEwen, agent Holyoke, Colo., re- lieved while sick several weeks by Bro. B. L. Faist, and Bro. Osborn, second Toning* ton, on sick list, by Bro. Freeman. Bro. Harris is back at Haxtun, Colo., re- lieved by Bro. Martin. It is now Bro. Coppon, making Morrill solid. We only have a few nons left. Brothers on the West End. help me to line them up. Also the few delinquents. Bro. F. A. Moeder. Sterling Relay, will be glad to help you land any non you give him a line-up on. I will furnish you all the application blanks you can use. I am glad to see so many carrying annuals. Any who do not receive a new schedule advise me and I will see that you get one. F. A. Sense, Local Chairman, Cert. 1690. Sheridan Division — Alger, Ranch 48 ter, Verona and Clifton third closed. * Bro. W. W. Senders, agent Moorcroft, sick with “flu,” relieved by Bro. J. E. Wham, who later reliever Bro. Hollowell at Ran- Chester when he relieved Bro. Higgins, Osage, resigned. Sister V. F. Roberts, third Oriva. off sick, relieved by Barnhill, who later relieved Sis- ter Chester, third Arvada, while off with a severe case of tonsllitls, closing third Oriva a few days. Also relieved Bro. Paul Mc- Carthy, second Clifton, several weeks, ow- ing to the serious illness of his sister at Hardin, closing third Clifton, Sister Rath- bone relieving him on second until Bro. McCarthy returned. Sister Halley, third Diet*, relieved by Mias Christopher on account of the death of her mother at Garland. Third wire chief Bro. Livingston, a new man from Aurora, I1L, vice Bro. Daigh. now on first. L. A. Hunter,' Cert. 1788. Casper Division— Bro. Henderson, agent Frannie, resigned, succeeded by Bro. McPherren, first Greyboll ; Bro. Cranes, second there, went to Casper relay, relieved by Bro. Mills, and Bro. Du- gan, third, to Riverton to get married, re- lieved by Nelson. 8ister Henderson bid In third Arralnto and Sister Swan succeeded “Non” Smith on Worl&nd third, Bro Win- ters taking second. Digitized by ^.ooQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 4X3 Bro. Totter went to Casper as dispatcher, relieved by Bro. Bryon on flrst Thermopolis. Bro. Davisson, working two tricks at Basin owing to shortage of operators, called to Billings on account of his mother’s illness, was relieved by Bro. Beck, the agent. If there is a non at your station notify Local Chairman Straley at Manderson and he will send you application blanks to line him up. Remember, “No card , no favors.” How about a meeting at Grey bull, Ther- mopolis or Casper. . Let’s get together, talk things over and get acquainted. Send your notes to me at Worland. “US,” Cert. 8015. Et Paso & Southwestern Ry., Div. 137 Western Division — The general chairman has appointed me division correspondent. Send me your notes. Bro. Bordeges, El Paso relay, visiting San Antonio and New Orleans, was relieved by Bro. Jones, same office. We now have $140 In the special fund for the aid of worthy distressed brothers and sisters, which at the close of the present semi-annual period should be Increased to $225, when the $1 additional dues will prob- ably not be needed. There is also a balance of $5.25 In the flower fund, disbursements therefrom during 1919 having been $41.55. Bro. Manning, formerly at "SW” El Paso relay, is reported *to have made quite a "killing*’ in oil. Assistant General Chairman Rummell, Os- born. Arlz.. called on me at Pantano recently while train No. 2 was waiting for another engine. Bro. Sands, Columbus, has had sickness in his family and his son met with a very serious accident recently. We all extend our sympathy. Bro. Brim berry, Lewis Springs, was awarded first prizes for the best kept depot and lawn on this division last year. These prizes had gone to Tucson for a long time. The back pay for 1919 was received on this division February 1st. Those rated at 54 cents per hour have now been allowed 51 ?4 cents. We all appreciate the effort our committee made to secure this correction. Dispatcher Bro. C. B. Lane, working for the S. P. a month, has returned to second Douglas. My neighbor, Bro. J. Moores, agent S. P. Pantano. known to many on this division, is proudly displaying the 25 years’ continuous service medal he “recently received. When nons light over here get after them yourself, also send their names to your local chairman, and don’t forget to keep after Operator-Cashier Rogers at Tombstone until he lines up. , Bro. Shirk was relieved on Tucson ticket job a ' few days by Bro. Sorenson, new in TTW” relay, El Paso. Cbbv. SIC. Trinity & Brazos Valley R. R„ Div. 144. Back time for the first six months of 1918 was paid on January 17th, amounting to about $100,000, the various employes receiv- ing from a few dollars to seven hundred each. * Bro. D. W. Ramsay, who resigned as gen- eral chairman January 1. 1918, to accept employment In the First National Bank of Bard well, Texas, where he was formerly agent of this road, has been elected cashier of that institution. The telegraph line repairers* classification is still under dispute as to whether they are electricians, composite mechanics or linemen. Bro. C. H. Wagner, now with an oil com- pany in Oklahoma, has purchased a home there and is enjoying life with his wife, baby, cow, chickens and other handy ad- juncts to a well ordered home. Bro. G. W. Thorpe has resigned as general secretary and treasurer of this division and has been succeeded by Bro. N. B. Anderson. Remit your dues to him at Tomball, Texas. I am indebted to Bro. Walter Garland for the last write-up from this division. He was formerly agent and operator for this road and the T. & T. C., but is how with the Texas Oil Company at Fort Worth. Texas. Csrt. 86. Ft. W., D. C., W. V. & A* & 3. Rys., Div. 145. First and Second Districts — Brothers, remit the special assessment of $5 as quickly as possible to the general sec- retary and treasurer if you have not already done so. The committee members were out quite a lot of money personally in securing the new schedule. We desire to express our appreciation to Vice-President Pierson for his able assistance in helping us to secure it. Bro. Ablngton, agent Childress, appointed general chairman, vice Bro. Webster, re- signed. Bro. Hines, **XM Childress, was off a few days recently en account of sickness. Bra Joe Grubbs, Wichita Falls, spent Sunday in Ft. Worth recently. Third and Fourth Districts— Relatives and friends have our heartfelt sympathy in the recent death of Bro. Brooks, second Texllne. Bro. Dunn, the organizer, went over the road recently. If anyone knows any news along the line give it to operator “W” in **DW” office and I will put it In the next write-up. Let us elect a regular correspondent and have a write-up every month. Cert. -2715. Western Pacific R. R.v Div. 153. Bro. Thornhill, agent Hackstaff, has re- sumed after 60 days* absence, relieved by Bro. C. A. Bateman. Digitized by Googk

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414 v The Rail bo ad Telegrapher. Bro. L. A. Parkhurst, Reno Junction, to Listo agency (new). Bro. C. J. Adams, first Sand Pass, is be- ing relieved by Bro. N. E. Ham, from the Eastern Division, and Bro. O. A. Mosher, agent Belden, by Bro. R. B. Clark. General Chairman Breeding spent a week recently on the Eastern Division lining the boys up. Bro B. B. Moots to Hawley agency, re- lieved by Bro. S. C. Armstrong, and Bro. Hoene. agent Palermo, relieved by Bro. W. G. Mackey. Our meetings at Marysville and Sacra- mento make up 4n enthusiasm what they lack in attendance, but we would like to have all the brothers and sisters who pos- sibly can to attend in the future. The effort you put forth to do so will never be re- gretted. Cert. 22. O. W. Ry. A Nav. Co., Div. 161. Third Division — Fifth Vice-President Eddy is looking after our case. There are 14 other roads that have similar cases before the board in Wash- ington. Since the election of the new president of the Union Pacific 8ystem, which Includes the Union Pacific, Pedro, O. S. L. and O. W. R. A N., there is a movement on foot to consolidate them into one big division. This would give us about 1,600 members com- pared with the 300 we now have, and put us on an equal footing with the N. P.. G. N., S. P. and other roads. The members will probably be given a chance to vote on this shortly. Bro. Ballard, Waitsburg. is on sick leave, also Bro. Reilly Page ; closed his trick, no extra men. Bro. King. Granger, relieved by Bra Bane three weeks on account of death of his father in Minnesota, Send your dues to O. R. McNabb, 643% Kerby street, Portland, Ore., and your mu- tual benefit assessments to Bro. C. B. Raw- lins, Missouri State Life Bldg., St Louis. Mo. Do not lose sight of our motto, “No oorrf, no favor a.” If you want a write-up each month send your notes to 8ister Smythe, Star buck. Wash. W. T. Mansell, L. C. Third Division Notes — Bro. Ruthstrum, agent Touchet, Is ul with "flu." I have made my last appeal for notes. In the future we won’t have any unless some of the members decide to be generous with Items. It’s Impossible for me to keep in touch with the happenings on the entire division. I wish to thank Sister Young for the Interest manifested and for her notes. (Miss) L. Lucile Smtths, Asst L. C. and Cor. Chicago A Alton R. R., Olv. 168. Western Division — Recent meetings at Louisiana and Slater poorly attended. I wrote every member be- tween Kansas City and Louisiana In refer- ence to these meetings and there were only 12 present at Slater. Keep after the few nons. If you don't know where they are located ask the local chairman for the list he is getting up. Sister Gowin, third at Blue Springs, has returned from a two months' visit of friends at El Paso, Texas. Mrs. Sommers, mother of Bro. Jim sad Tom and 8ister Sue Sommers, passed away at her home in McCreedie. Tuesday, Jan- uary 27. We extend our heartfelt sym- pathy to the members of the bereaved fam- ily and her many friends. Bro. Elum is relieving Bro. Shufelt at Loulsland. Bro. Reese relieving Bra Raines, third Pearl, and Bro. Brady is relieving Bro. In low, agent Hill view, on account of sick- ness. Bro. Elum has returned from St Louie where Mrs. Elum has undergone her second operation within the last year. Bro. Hobson, Roodhouse, Is now working one day a week as dispatcher, and Bra Green is dispatching at Roodhouse. Bro. Kraft, who relieved Agent Ligon at Selsa a while, is now in St Louis. Southern Division — Bro. El wood, third Athol, was off ten days recently. Bro. J. D. Moriarty. who relieved Ray on second there two weeks owing to sickness, also relieved Bro. C. A. Phillips, second Lincoln ticket office, while off same cause. Bro. W. L. Torrom, third Atlanta Tower, was off several days on account of sickness in his family. We all extend our sympathy to the brother and Mrs, Horrom in the loss of their little child. Bro. H. A. Shrenk, third Lincoln ticket office, was off reoently on account of sick- ness. If there is a non at your office all get after him and give him no rest until be joins. Please send me your notes on or before the 18th of each month. M. Myers, Cert 642. Oregon Short Line R. R., Dtv. 172. Utah Division , First and Second Districts My wife and self were off ten days with the "flu." Bro. Hickey, our county treasurer, relieved me. and Bro. Ptckren’s wife, Soda Springs, took care of my wife when she was very low. Bro. Jolley, second Bancroft, was also off with the "flu." Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 415 Bro. Diesticamp, second McCaramon, re- lieved SO days by Bro. C. <?. Davy, Soda Springs third. Bro. Elder, second Blaser. sent his baby to Soda for an operation recently and we are glad to report that it is getting along fine. Sister Flllingim, called to Butte on account of serious illness of her brother, relieved at Tunnel) by Miss Sahlbe'rg. It is now Bro. Humphreys at Downey. Brothers on the South End. call me or send in some news. Cbbt. 739. Montana Division — MPO" Pocatello yard office is now on this division. You wilj not forfeit any of your rights by bidding on it, but it is understood that extra dispatchers are selected from °PO** so if you have no qualifications as a dispatcher refrain from bidding on it. Bro. Beachham, third there, is being relieved by Bro. Peterson. Sister Berness, third Dubois, is visiting home folks at Missoula. Bro. R. W. Kelley, agent Rirle, attending to legal matters for the Short Line In Butte recently, met many of his former business associates and friends. Sister Viola Wallace, agent Menan. was recently married at St. Anthony. Congrat- ulations. V. J. Swanson, Cert. 725. Idaho Division — Bro. Thomas Fugate, Bliss third, owing to the illness of his wife at American Falls, relieved by Bro. Watts from Owinza, who relieved Bro. Walters, first Wapi, while he was In California four months. Sister Keltus, second Wapi, on her honey- moon, relieved by Sister Thompson. Robbins and Stine, Pocatello **CA” ; Alley at Gooding, and Mattson at Richfield ; Nampa and Moreland, Gooding, still none. Remember our motto, “No card , no favors” and apply It vigorously. Bros. Coon and Schinzler are making fine catches of trout from Malad River. 8ister Edna Whiting, third Owinza, visit- ing her parents at Provo, Utah, relieved by Bro. A. J. Watts. Bro. Luse, agent Murphy, to Portland and other coast points for a month, relieved by Bro. Poust, Just back from overseas service. Bros. Posey. Middleton ; Warren, Hill City, and West, Heyburn, relieved by Bro. Poust on account of sickness. R. W. Schinzlsr. Toledo & Ohio Central R. R., Div. 173. The operators at Frankfort Street Tower are having quite a time keeping time of all trains ,enginea and yard cuts that use the plant, which is right In the heart of the Hocking Yards. Bros. Patridge and Saar doubled while Shriner there had the “flu*' until relieved by Switchman Mayer. Bro. Massie, called to St Marys, relieved by Holcomb at ‘'Big Four” Tower. We extend Bro. and Mrs. George Morris our sympathy owing to the death of their infant son. Sisters Nickles and Shock relieving on Bucyrus Division, North End during short- age of operators. Bennington and Landgraf, new 24-hour offices, effective with new time card, but on account of shortage of men Landgraf net opened yet. Bro. Dudley, Whitmore first, going back on the farm. Bro. Cornwell, second Hatton, has a new baby girl at his home. Bro. E. O. Evans, first Kile, while sick several days, relieved by Bro. Hewittson, first Beagle, relieved by Sister Hewittson. Those who have not answered my letter, please do so. Any who have not received it ask your nearest brother. He will put you next, or drop me a line and send you a copy. Was unable to send the letter out sooner on account of sickness. Have received a favorable answer from everyone replying and some who did not reply by letter favor the change suggested. If you boys want to make this a success you have all got to do your part and help. I started it at the request of a" number of brothers, and need the support of all of you, so if you have not yet replied do so at once so we can finish up the matter and be ready to do business. S. E. Gard, Cert 166. Tennessee Central R. R., Div. 178. The called meeting in Lebanon, Tennessee, Sunday night February 8th, was attended by 26 enthusiastic members from all parts of the System. Everyone was agreeably pleased with what was accomplished and anxious for another such meeting. Sister Mila Shoemake, third Lebanon ; Bro. J. T. Lee, Monterey, and Bro. Bert E. Bacon, Rock wood, were the three new members elected, whose applications were secured by Bro. Eatherly. Bros. O. C. Cleveland, agent and E.' W. Eatherly, operator Lebanon, were unani- mously re-elected general chairman and gen- eral secretary and treasurer respectively, and Bros. C. C. Davis, agent Carthage; W. H. Davis, agent Watertown, and J. P. Hamil- ton, agent Cookeville, were unanimously elected general committeemen. The unani- mous re-election of Bros. Cleveland and Eatherly for the third term as general offl- Digitized by Google

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416 The Railroad Telegrapher. cars proves their ability and loyalty and be- speaks the confidence of every member. They have fulfilled every task faithfully and conscientiously and will continue to do so. The general committee representing the largest stations on the system are well qual- ified and competent. After the election and installation of offi- cers and the other business of the meeting concluded, Bro. Eatherly served us with a big pot of hot Java and a large platter of choice sandwiches, and we all did justice to his hospitality. Article 4, section (a) of our last contract reads: “Employes covered by this agree- ment will be regarded as in line for promo- tion, preference being given employes who have been longest in the service, provided they are qualified/* We also have a letter from the general superintendent supplement- ing this contract, which is in substance : “Operators holding the car Job are con- sidered as eligible for the dispatcher’s chair provided they qualify within six months, after Which time if they do not qualify they are automatically relieved and the job goes on bulletin." The present operator on the car Job, a “non" has been there now for 18 months and apparently has not qualified. Uhder our agreement he has the road blocked to our brethren who may be aspirants to the dispatcher’s chair. Let us get together and straighten out these little irregularities. A large number of brothers on sick list. Practically everyone has remitted for the first card for 1920. Keep afteV J. H. McCormack, clerk-oper- ator dispatcher’s office; Extra Fiddler, and Baumgardner, second Emery Gap. Put “No card, no favors” In front of them every way they turn. When you have any trouble take it up with your chief dispatcher, keeping copies of all correspondence. If you are unable to come to any satisfactory adjustment with him, then turn all papers over to your gen- eral chairman and he will handle your case for you. Brethren, a few notes about the 18th of each month will be highly appreciated. It is pretty hard to keep tab on everything going on over the entire system. Lend me a hand in trying to keep Division 178 “on the map." “Old X," Cert 9. C„ T. H. A 3. E. R. R., Div. 180. Illinois and Indiana Divisions — Bro. Daugherty bid In new third “BA." Bro. Sherevs. first “BW," was relieved & few days by Bro. Vice. Bro. Terry is back on second Johannott after a tussle with the “flu." Mr. and Mrs. Resler, first and third there, have sent in their applications] also Wright, a returned sailor, on “BW” Becond. Bro. Nash, “BA." sick several days, re- lieved by Oliver, and myself, relieved by Bro. Mann ; Bro. Baker, third Spring Hill, by Coleman ; Bro. McGuyer, Coalmont, sickness In family, relieved by Bro. O'Neill, the agent Bro. Hunt, first Linton, relieving in dis- patcher’s office owing to Illness of Dispatch- er Ogden’s father, and Bro. Longoor Is re- lieving on third South End dispatcher’s office. Bro. Bailey eff recently owing to the death of his grandfather. Bro. Terrell, second Latta, visited rela- tives in Crawfordsville recently. Thanks to Bro. Bailey of the Indiana Divi- sion for notes. P. A. Malons, L. C. Mo. A No. Ark. Ry., Div. 182. Bro. Luter, Stark City, is off on account of sickness, and quite a number are off with the “flu"; Bro. Beatty, Berryville. is on three months’ leave with the privilege of another three on account of ill health; Bro. Tarkington. down with pneumonia, is recov- ering slowly, relieved by ye scribe, and Bt Joseph station is closed temporarily on ao- count of Bro. Stewart’s family being very sick in Oklahoma. Miller station also closed on account of no extra men. Bro. Fay, Elzey, is working in “GM” re- lay temporarily. Bro. Brasfleld, Searcy, expects to go to Kansas City shortly to settle some griev- ances. Bro. Murphy, who carries an annual, pro- moted to third trick dispatcher, vice Clay to second, vice Varner to first, succeeding Stotts, who succeeds Chief McDowell, gone with the Texas Pacific at Marshall, Texas, as trick man. E. F. Stevenson, L. C., Cert. 61. La. Ry. A Nav. Co., Div. 183. The new contract has been presented to the management, asking about what branch lines of other roads are paying. Back up the general committee. Bro. Latil, general chairman, has returned from Shreveport af- ter framing up the new schedule, and get- ting the general committee together for business. It is now Bro. George Heidelberg, third “DI" Baton Rouge; Bro. Handley, second “DI," bid in first trick dispatcher’s posi- tion, Shreveport; Bro. Bland Is now chief there. This brings Bro. Heidelberg up to second “DI" and Bro. Snyder, extra dis- patcher, up to third regular. Cert. 64. Digitized by Google

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The Rah road Telegrapher. 417 i Mutual Benefit Department Assessment No. 145 Is due January 1, 1920 Time for payment expires February 29, 1920 AMOUNT OF ASSESSMENTS On | 300.00 (Series A) On 500.00 (Series B) On 1,000,00 (Series C) . . BENEFITS PAID IN FEBRUARY Claim No. Name Cause 8001.. Thomas P. Hunter Gastric Ulcer 8062.. Frank J. Green Weakened Heart Muscles 8070. .Sylvester Crader Bright’s Disease 8071.. Frederick C. Taylor Suicide 3072. .Herbert L. Phillips Lobar Pneumonia 3078.. Arthur N. Llvesay Typhoid Fever 3074.. 5.m T. Johnson Mitral Insufficiency 5075.. Larius C. Harrison Heart Disease 8076. .Martin C. Weaver. . . ... . . . Apoplexy 3077.. For tuna t O. Parent Syncope Cardiac 8078. . P. J. Quinn. Angina Pectoris 3080.. Edgar B. Freeman Unknown 8081 . .James F. McCartney. .... Pulmonary Tuberculosis 8082.. Clarence E. Sawyer Carcinoma of Stomach 8083.. Cam 11 us O. Ozburn Gunshot Wound 8084.. William A. McCray Fracture of Skull 3085.. Jasper L. Sealy Cerebral Hemorrhage 8087.. William G. Laney Pulmonary Tuberculosis 8088.. Harry CV Gamer. ........ Broncho Pneumonia 8089.. Arthur Barnett Pneumonia 3090. . Thomas R. Wallace Tuberculosis 8091.. 0.car B. Wardell Acidosis 8092.. Henry R. Terrell Edema of Brain 3093.. Lloyd L. Herring.... ...... Pulmonary Hemorrhage 3094.. 5.muel E. Payne Tuberculosis 8095.. Clarence A. McCarthy. . .Influenza 3096.. F. E. Dodge. Pneumonia 3097.. Clyde M. Shane Pulmonary Tuberculosis 8P98..W. F. Parslow Gastric Hemorrhage 3099.. 1. F. McCravey Tuberculosis 8100. .John B. Royer .Influenza 32.40 per year 3.60 per year 7.20 per year Div. Cert. Series Amt. .. 32. .65009. .C. $ 1.000.00 .. 81.. 39187.. B. 600.00 ..130.. 40469.. C. 1,000.00 .. 1.. 47828.. A. 800.00 .. 54.. 29735.. C. 1,000.00 .. 40.. 21197.. B. 600.00 .. 53.. 34300.. A. 300 00 ..126.. 20061.. A. 300.00 .. 20.. 22695. .A. 800.00 .. 1.. 48734.. A. 300.00 .. 30.. 62466.. A. 300.00 .. 59.. 22281.. B. 600.00 .. 8.. 26146.. B. 600.00 .. 76.. 20967.. B. 600.00 .. 46.. 44789.. C. 1,000.00 .. 70.. 65390.. C. 1.0*0.00 .. 59.. 61730.. C. 1,000.00 .. 15.. 34285.. B. 600.00 .. 62. .63985. .C,. 1,000.00 .. 31.. 18791. .C. L000 0Q .. 67.. 62921.. C. 1.000.00 .. 59. .51764. .C. 1.000.00 .. 40.. 37757.. C. 1.000.00 .. 13.. 34060.. C. 1,000.00 .. 43.. 43639.. C. 1,000.00 .. 43.. 7046.. A. 300 00 .. 53,. 15501.. B. 500(00 .. 76.. 39897.. A. 300.00 .. 54.. 46325.. A. 300.00 .. 46.. 183.. C. 1.000.00 .. 10.. 60651.. C. 1.000.00 $21,200.00 FINANCIAL STATEMENT— MORTUARY FUND Receipts. Received on assessments to January 31, 1920 $2,514,998.06 Received on assessments, February, 1920 62.005.93 Interest 57.330.61 Total $2,634,834.60 Disbursements. Death claims paid to January 31, 1920 ... .$1,939,227.47 Death claims paid In February 21.200.00 Assessments refunded account rejected applications 3,449.01 Assessments transferred to dues * 404.99 Balance on hand credit Mortuary Fund, February 28, 1920 660,063.13 Total ..$2,624,334.60 C. B. RAWLINS, Secretary and Treasurer, Mutual Benefit Department. Digitized by Google

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4-1* The Railroad Telegrapher. Official Directory General Offices, St. Louis, Mo. 7th Floor, Missouri State Life Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. GRAND OFFICERS. E. J. MANION President St. Louis, Mo. W. T. BROWN First Vice-President 6089 Rhodes Ave., Chicago, 111. tf. D. ROBERTSON.... Third Vice-President 14 Delaware Ave., Ottawa, Ont J. M. MEIN. .. .Deputy President for Canada 24 Rainsford Road. Toronto, Ont. L. M. EDDY Fifth Vice-President 620 El Camino Real, Redwood City, Calif. C. B. RAWLINS.... Grand Secy, and Tress. St. Louis. Mo. T. M. PIERSON Second Vice-President Centra] Square, N. T. J. J. DERMODY Fourth Vice-President 4424 9th St., N. W„ Washington, D. a J. W. ANDERSON Sixth Vice-President 915 Villa Plaoe, Nashville, Tenn. L. J. ROSS Seventh Vice-President Room 8, 1098 Chapel St., New Haven, Conn. BOARD OF DIRECTORS. J. F. Miller, Chairman. 71-72 Gunther Bldg., Fayette and St. Paul Sts., Baltimore. Md. B. E. Nason. Secretary, North Branch, Minn. W. P. Hutchinson, 137 King St., Moncton, N. B. G. E. Soya ter. Room 310. Drexef Bank Bldg., 765 Oak wood Blvd., Chicago. 111. H. G. Alexander, 122 Tate St. Greensboro, N. C. ADVERTISING All correspondence pertaining to advertising should be addressed to The W. N. Gates Co., Managers Advertising, Garfield Building, Cleveland, Ohio. Division Directory GRAND DIVISION — Attached membership not confined to any particular railroad or territory. E. J. Manion, President, St. Louis, Mo.; C. B. Rawlins, Grand Secre- tary and Treasurer, St. Louis, Mo. No. 1 — Division covers the Grand Trunk and Grand Trunk Pacific Rys. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. J. T. Eddy, Gen'l Chairman. Grand Trunk Ry.. Mar- cellus, Mich.; H. M. Triplett Gen’l Chair- man, Grand Trunk Pacific Ry., Melville, Sa*k.; D. L. Shaw, Gen’l S. ft T., 867 Waterloo st., London, Ont No. 2 — ST. LOUIS. MO.— Meets 8d Monday of each month at 8 p. m., small hail south side, third floor,' Masonic Temple (Odeon bldg.). Grand and Finney aves.. St. Louis, Mo.; L W. Quick. Chief Telegrapher, 8th floor Star bldg., St Louis. Mo.; R. J. McElhinney, 8. ft T., 4110s Arssnal st, St Louis, Mo. No. 8— Division covers C., C., O. ft St Louis Railway System. B. Whalen, Gen'l Chair- man, 1639 8th ave.. Terre Haute. Ind.; Geo. Lavengood. Gen'l S. & T.. 404 Monroe st, Alexandria, Ind. System meeting held at Spencer Hotel, Indianapolis, Ind., sub- ject to call of the Gen'l Chairman. No. 4 — Division covers the C., St P.. M. ft O. Ry. W. J. Liddane, Gen'l Chairman. 540 Dayton Ave., St Paul. Minn.; D. 0. Tenney, Gen'l S. ft T., 489 Nicollet ave.. Mankato, Minn. No. 6 — Division covers the Kansas City Southern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman; S. Nelson. Genl Chairman. 2520 Basel st, Texarkana, Tex. F. E. Young. G. S. ft T., <11 Olive sL Texarkana, Tex. No. 6 — Division covers the Union Pacific Railroad and St. Joseph ft Grand island R. R. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. B. L. Stump. Gen'l Chairman. 438 Keeline bldg., Omaha, Neb.; John H. Hughey. Jr., Gen'l S. ft T., Box 294, Junc- tion City, Kan. ^ Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 419 No. 7— Division covers the Canadian Pacific Railroad. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. J. M. Mein. Gen’l Chairman, 24 Rainsford Road, Toronto. Ont.; A. E. Chap- man. Chairman Eastern Lines, 266 Pic- cadilly st.. London, Ont.: Geo. Gilbert, Chairman Western Lines, Kenora. Ont.; R. C. Wilton, Gen’l S. A T., Kenora, Ont. No. 8 — Division covers the New York Cen- tral Ry.. East. Central New York Southern R. R. H. B. Morey, Gen’l Chairman. 1630 Neilson sL, Utica. N. Y.; W. P. Mansell, Gen’l 8. A T., Corfu, N. Y. No. 9 — Division covers the C. I. & L. Ry., J. E. Hollon. Gen’l Chairman, 2815 Cornell ave., Indianapolis. Ind.: P. E. Rees, Gen’l S. A T., Prance8vllle, Ind. No. 10 — Division covers the Philadelphia & Reading Ry. M. A. McNeil, Gen’l Chair- man. 1213 Walnut st.. Harrisburg, Pa.; O. L. Farlow, G. S. & T., 2513 N. Bancroft st.. Philadelphia, Pa. No. 11 — Division covers the Canadian Gov- ernment Rys. J. J. Trainor, Gen’l Chair- man. care of P. E. I. Ry., Charlottetown, P. E. I.; Wm. Parsons, Gen’l S. A T., St. Romuald d'Etchemin, Que. No. 12— Division covers the Delaware & Hud- son Ry. System, Quebec, Montreal A Southern and Naplerville Junction Rys. Meetings subject to call of Chairman. G. A- Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, Room 31-32. 121 North Pearl at.. Albany. N. Y.; J. G. Malouln. Gen'l Chairman Canadian Lines, Vercheres. Que.: O. C. Benjamin, Gen’l 8. A T., Clemons, N. Y. No. 11— Division covers Virginian Ry. H. W. Hlx, Gen’l Chairman, Box 18. Salem, Va.; J. E. Goodwin, Gen’l S. A T., Box 24, Eggleston, Va. No. 14— Division covers the Norfolk & West- ern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. H. C. Callaway, Gen’l Chairman, Graham, Va.; J. L. George, Gen’l a A T., Box 402, Roanoke, Va. No. 17 — Division covers Pennsylvania Sys- tem. J. P. Miller. Gen’l Chairman, 71-72 Gunther Bldg., Payette and St. Paul sts., Baltimore, Md. J. E. Hlndmarch. Chair- man Western Lines. Troy. 111. W. M. Skin- ner, Gen’l 8. A T.. 71-72 Gunther Bldg., Payette and SL Paul sts., Baltimore, Md. No. 18 — Division covers the New York, Chi- cago A St. Louis Railroad System. P. P. Cowley, Gen’l Chairman. 618 W. Lincoln st, Findlay, Ohio; C. O. Crisenberry, G. S. A T., Knox, Ind. No. 19 — Division covers New York Central Railroad West. G. E. Kipp, Gen'l Chair- man. Blasdell, N. Y.; G. R. Smith. As- sistant Gen’l Chairman, Trenton. Mich.; E. D. Graham, Gen’l S. A T., Mishawaka, Ind. No. 20— Division covers the New York. On- tario A Western Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. L. R. Conner, Gen'l Chairman, Cotteklll. N. Y.; H. D. Pfoor. Gen’l S. A T., P. O. Box 28, Jer- myn. Pa. No. 21— Division covers the Cincinnati. In- dianapolis A Western Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. J. H. Carter. Gen’l Chairman. Marshall. Ind.; J. V. Cummins, G. S. A T., 1149 N. Mount st, Indianapolis, Ind. No. 22— Division covers Missouri. Kansas A Texas Railway System. W C. Thompson. Gen’l Chairman. Box 1269, Muskogee. Ok la. : P. A. Brown, G. 8. A T., Box 293, Coffeyvllle, Kan. No. 23— Division covers the Chicago. Mil- " waukee A St. Paul Railway. Bellingham A Northern Railway. Big Blackfoot Rail- way. Gallatin Valley Railway. Puget Sound A Willapa Harbor Railway. Seattle. Port Angeles A Western Railway and Ta- coma-Eastern Railroad, Davenport, Rock Island A Northwestern Ry. G. E. Soyster, Gen’l Chairman. Room 810. Drexei Bank bldg., 766 Oakwood blvd., Chicago. RL; Ed. R. Derrickson, Gen’l S. A T.. Room 310, Drexei Bank bldg., 765 Oakwood blvd., Chicago. I1L No. 15 — Division covers the Atlantis Coast Line R. R. B. P. Wheeler. Gen’l Chair- man, Oviedo. Fla.; J. H. Williams, Gen’l 8. A T., Box. 866, Richmond, Va. No. 16 — Division covers the Michigan Cen- tral Railroad. Meets 2d Monday in each month. Odd Fellows Temple. Michigan and May bury aves., Detroit. Ml oh.; D. N. Smith, Gen’l Chairman. 606 B. Ann st, Ann Arbor. Mich.: J. H. Staloy, Gen’l 8. A T.. Box 922, Welland. Ont No. 24 — Division covers the M. A O. and Southern Ry. in Mississippi. L. T. Mur- daugh. Gen’l Chairman. 613 N. Royal st, Jaokson, Tenn.; C. E. Hsndley, Oen’l 8. A T., Artesta, Miss. No. 26— Division covers the International and Great* Northern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. T. C. Barry, Gen’l Chairman, 8002 South Presa st, San Antonio, Tex.; D. D. Hungate, Gen’l 8. A T., Jewett Tax. Digitized by Google

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420 The Railroad Telegrapher. No. 26 — Division covers the Wabash Ry. P. H. Unglaub. Gen’l Chairman, 310 W. Col- lege ave., Jacksonville, HI.; M. E. Fohey, Gen'l S. 4k T., 450 Crane ave., Detroit, Mich. No. 27 — Division covers St. Louis Southwest- ' ern Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. P. D. Neislar, Gen'l Chairman. Box 93, Lamkln. Tex.: C. B. Welch, Gen’l S. & T., St. Francis, Ark. No. 28 — Division covers the Seaboard Air Line Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. W. L. Tidwell. Gen'l Chairman, Helena, Ga.; P. O. Cumming, Gen'l S. 4k T., 15 Dinwiddle bL, Ports- mouth, Va. No. 29 — Division covers New York. New Haven & Hartford R. R.. Boston Terminal, and Central New England R. R. Meets 1st Friday each month. 8 p. m.. In Red Men's Hall. 48 Church st.. corner Crown. New Haven. Conn. First Saturday each month, 8 p. m.. in Pilgrim Hall, 694 Washington st., Boston. Mass. Second Friday each month. 7:30 p. m., Metroportan Hall, North ave., near Hugenot st, Rochelle, N. Y. Third Saturday each month In Swarts Lodge. Odd Fellows Hall, 96 Westminster st.. Providence. R. I. M. W. Handy, Gen’l Chairman. N. Y., N. H. & H. R. R.. Box 596. New Haven, Conn.; S. E. Haseltlne, Gen’l Chairman, Boston Terminal, 21 French ave., So. Braintree, Ma98.; G. S. House, Gen’l Chairman. Cent. New Eng- land R. R., Pleasant Valley, N. Y.; S. E. Gould. Gen’l Chairman, Narragansett Pier R. R.. Peacedale. R. I.; T. O. Tiger, Gen'l S. & T., Box 596, New Haven, Conn. No. 89 — Division covers Delaware, Lacka- wanna 4k Western R. R. M. M. Farley, Gen'l Chairman, Hallstead. Pa.; C. C. Cooper. G. 8. & T., 71% S. Greenbush st., Cortland, N. Y. No. 81r— Division covers the Missouri Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. H. J. Mohler. Gen’l Chairman, Room 812, Star bldg., St. Louis. Mo.; N. S. Morgan, Gen’l S. & T., Room 812, Star bldg., St. Louis, Mo. No. 82 — Division covers the St. Louts-San Francisco Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. G. Kelso, Gen’l Chairman, 312 WoodrufT bldg.. Springfield. Mo.; M. T. Fullington. Gen’l S. 4k T., 312 Woodruff bldg., Springfield, Mo. No. 82 — Division covers the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad System. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. B. C. Lewis, Gen'l Chairman, Oakland. Md.; O. E. Marsh, Ass't Gen'l Chairman, 4121 31st st., Oakley Park, Cincinnati, O.; E. A. Shaffer, Gen’l S. 4k T., Box 288, Oakland. Md. No. 34 — Division covers the Chicago 4k East- ern Illinois Railway System. Meets sub- ject to the call of the Chairman. H. H. Skiles, Gen’l Chairman, R. F. D. No. 5, Evansville, Ind.; O. A. Hixon. Gen'l S. k T.. *i06 Jewel st.. Danville. III. No. 36 — Division covers the Illinois Central Railroad and the Yazoo 4k Mississippi Val- ley Railroad. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. A. Mulhall. Gen’l Chairman, Clarkson. Ky.: L. M. Elliott Gen’l Chair- man, Y. & M. V. Lines, Rolling Forks, Miss.; G. E. Chance, Ass’t Gen'l Chairman, Mounds, IlL; R. L. Shannon, Gen'l S. 4k T- Anna, 01. No. 38, SPRINGFIELD, MASS.' — Meets 3d Saturday each month 7 p. m.. Moose Club Hall. 19 Lyman st., Springfield, tiasa. Frank P. Sargent, Chief Tel.. 36 Colton ave., Merrick, Mass.; . M. J. Walsh, S. k T.. 15 Moseley ave.. Merrick. Mass. No. 89 — Division covers the Per© Marquette Rallrond System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. R. M. Burr. Gen’l Chairman, Central Lake. Mich.; C. P. Neff. Gen’l S. & T., Lock Box 334. Lowell. Mich. No. 40— -Division covers the Chesapeake k Ohio. Chesapeake & Ohio of Indiana and the Hocking Valley Rya. L. E. Hicks, Gen’l Chairman, Cralgsvllle, Va.: J. W. Kiser. Gen’l S. 4k T.. St. Albans, W. Va. No. 41 — Division covers Boston 4k Maine R. R. Meetings subject to call of Gen’l Chair- man or Local Chairman. J. B. Bode. Gen’l Chairman, 50 Tudor 8t. Chelsea. Mass.; L P. Clifton, Ass't Gen’l Chairman. 41 Mor- ton st., Waltham, Mass.; H. L. Jones, Gen’l S. & T., R. F. D. No. 87, Fremont, N. H. No. 42 — Division covers the Erie Railroad System. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. E. J. Heaser. Gen’l Chairman. 864 Wallace place. Elmira. N. Y.; C. L. Bridge, Gen’! S. 4k T.. 81 Allen st.. Deposit. N. Y. No. 48 — Division cavers Canadian National Railways— Western Lines. Meets subject to call of Chairman. W. H. Phillips. Gen'l Chairman, 522 McIntyre Blk., Winnipeg. Man.; G. H. Palmer, Gen’l S. 4k T., Dau- phin. Man. No. 44. NEW YORK. N. Y.— Meets 2d Satur- day each month at 8 p. m.. In Fraternity Hall, 22 Harrlman ave.. Jamaica. N. Y.; J. S. Thuma. Chief Tel.. 26 Franklin st, Jamaica. N. Y.; L. Meringer. S. & T., 10142 112th st., Richmond Hill, N. Y. No. 45 — Division covers Central R. R. of New Jersey. Edwin F. Pry, Gen'l Chairman, 913 Center st.. East Mauch Chunk. Pa-‘. Wm. T. Smock, Gen’l 8. 4k T., Wick&tunk, N. J. No. 46 — Division covers the Central of Geor- gia Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. H. Llvsey, Gen’l Chair- man, East Point, Ga.; O. W. Bledsoe. Gen’l S. & T., Lafayette, Ga. Digitized by Google

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Thb Kail road Telegrapher. 421 No. 47— Division covers Terminal R. R. Assn, of St. Louis. Meets 4th Wednesday, 7:30 p. m„ and following Thursday, 9 a. m., each month. Marquette Hotel, 18th st. and Washington ave.f St. Louis. Mo. J. P. Seifert, Gen’l Chairman, 4043 Wyoming ®t., St. Louis, Mo. ; W. B. Richardson, Gen’l S. & T., 823 North 18th st., St. Louis, Mo. No. 48— Division covers the Detroit, Toledo A Iron ton Railway. Meets subject to call of Chairman. G. W. Lowery, Gen’l Chair- man, Sum mi thill, Ohio; D. R. Murray, Gen’l S. & T., Good Hope, Ohio. No. 49 — Division covers the Denver & Rio Grande Railway System, Rio Grande Junc- tion R. R., and Rio Grande Southern R. R. Meets subject to call of Chairman. E. A. Compton. Gen’l Chairman, Box 171, Den- ver, Colo.; J. C. Brannon, Gen'l S. & T., 1014 S. Union ave., Pueblo. Colo. No. (0 — Division covers the Georgia Ry. W. W. Darden, Gen’l Chairman, Crawford, Ga.; J. p. Luckey, Gen’l 8. & T., Dearing, Ga. No. 61 — Division covers Bessemer A Lake Brie Railway System. Meets the 4 th Thursday of each month in Eagle’s Hall, Greenville, Pa. C. M. Miller. Gen’l Chair- man. 11 First ave., Greenville, Pa.; E. E. Keane, Gen’l S. A T.. Box 103, Greenville, Pa. No. 62. PITTSBURQH, PA.— Meets Satur- day, June 15thf 1918, and each alternating Saturday thereafter at 6:30 p. m., 231-238 Fifth ave., 8d floor, Roberts bllg., Pitts- burgh. Pa. 8. G. Phillips, Chief Tel., 2200 7th ave., Beaver Falls. Pa.; R. W. Bees, S. A T., 1417 Huron ave.. New Castle, Pa. No. 68 — Division covers Southern Pacific Railway Pacific System. Meets suoject to call of Chairman. T. T. Cull. Gen’l Chair- man, 837 Pacific bldg., San Francisco, Cat; A. M. Hammond. Gen’l S. & T., 837 Pacific bldg., San Francisco, Cal. No. 64 — Division covers the Northern Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. Sam Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, North Branch. Minn.; B. E. Nason, Gen’l S. A T.. North Branch, Minn. No. 66 — Division covers the Wheeling A Lake Erie and Wabash Pittsburgh Termi- nal West Side Belt Rys., and Pittsburgh St West Virginia R. R. Meets 3d Saturday evening of each month at Harmon. Ohio. J. O. Peoples, Gen’l Chairman, Bolivar, Ohio; W. A. Albaugh. Gen’l Chairman P. A W. V. R. R., R. D. 1, Mingo Junction, Ohio; C. E. Baltzer, Gen’l S. A T., Box 246. Navarre, Ohio. No. 66— Division covers Georgia Southern & Florida Railway System. O. L. Stebert, Gen’l Chairman, Valdosta, Ga.; F. H. Cas- on. Gen’l 8. A T.. Lake City. Fla. No. 67 — Division covers Nashville, Chatta- nooga & St. Louis Ry. J. M. Hamilton, Gen’l Chairman. 408 Fourth National Bank bldg.. Nashville, Tenn.; L. C. York, Gen’l S. & T., 42 Ferguson st, Atlanta, Qa. No. 68 — Division covers Louisville St Nash- ville R. R. and L. H. & St. L. Ry. S. B. Bryant, Gen'l Chairman. 408 Fourth Na- tional Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn.; EL Moneypenny, Gen’l S. A T„ 408 4th Nat Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn. No. 69— Division covers the Southern, North- ern Alabama and Danville St Western Railroads. Meets suVject to call of Chair- man. H. G. Alexander, Gen’l Chairman, 122 Tate st., Greensboro. N. C.; J. W. Bur- gess. Gen’l S. & T., 223 Ninth st. S. W., Charlottesville, Vai No. 60. WASHINGTON, D. C.— Meets 2d Wednesday of each month at 8 p. m., at 811 E st., N. W., Washington, D. C. J. T. McKean. Chief Tel.. 220 V st., N. B., Washington, D: C.; J. Webb Richraan. S. & T., 3726 Northampton st, Chevychase, Washington, D. C. No. 61 — Division covers Atchison, Topeka St Santa Fe Railway System. J. C. High, Gen’l Chairman, 312 Drexel Bank Bldg., Chicago, 111.; W. L. Braun, Ass’t Gen’l Chairman, G. C. & S. F. Lines, Milano, Texas; V. A. Gendron, Geh’l Sec. St Trea a., 312 Drexel Bank Bldg., Chicago, 111. No. 62 — Division covers the Queen St Cres- cent Route (North). W. E. Hines. Gen’l Chairman, Danville, Ky.; E. W. Shadoan, Gen’l S. & T., 634 Jackson st., George- town, Ky. No. 63 — Division covers A. & W. P. and W. of A. R. R. J. A. Kirkland, G. C., 61 Jack- son st., Newnan, Ga.; M. J. Williams, G. S. Sc T.. 106 Hill st.. La Grange. Ga. No. 64 — Division covers Gulf A Ship Island and Miss. Central R. R** R. F. Bass, Qen’l Chairman, Collins, Miss.; M. L. Henry, G. S. & T„ Plnola, Miss. No. 66 — Kansas City Terminal. Meets 2nd and 4 th Saturdays each month at 8 p. m„ Room 304 Curtice bldg., 813 Walnut Kan- sas City, Mo. C. H. Allen, Gen’l Chair- man. 2446 Harrison ave., Kansas City Mo.; Frank E. Hancock, Acting Gen’t S. & T., 2088 Jefferson st, Kansas City, Mo. No. 66 — Division covers IndianapoHs Union & Belt Railway Companies. Meets third Thursday each month, 7:30 p. m., New Williams Hotel, corner Senate and West Washington st., Indianapolis, Ind. Wm. M. Lindley, Gen'l Chairman. 2209 N. Dela- ware st., Indianapolis, Ind.; E. J. Payne, G. S. & T., 54 Raymond st., Indianapolis, Ind. Digitized by Google

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Tub Kailkoad Teleoraj>ubb. 42 2 No. 68 — Division covers Lehigh & New Eng- land Railroad. C. J. Fehr, Oen'l Chair- man, Box 466. Pen Argyle, Pa.; J. R. Cow- ling, G. S. & T., Wind Gap, Pa. No. 69— ^Division covers the Queen ft Cres- cent Route (South). Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. A. Berry, GenT Chair- man, Gibbsland, La.; W. A. Stennett, G. S. ft T., Lake, Miss. No. 86— Division covers the Gulf, MobUe ft Northern Ry. T. R. Craig, Gen’l Chair- man. Montezuma, Tenn.; H. C. Hughes, Gen’l S. ft T., New Augusta, Miss. No. 81 — Division covers Boston, Revere Beach ft Lynn R. R. Wm. J. O’Connell, Gen’l Chairman, 875 Frankfort sL, East Boston, Mass.; C. N. Emerson, Gen’l 8. ft T., 176 Leyden sL, East Boston, Mass. No. 70 — Division covers Great Northern Railway System. O. P. Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, 366 Shubert bldg., St Paul, Minn.; A. O. Olsen. Gen’l S. & T., 355 Shubert bldg., St. Paul, Minn. No. 82 — Division covers Western Maryland Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Oen’l Chairman. K. H. Stover, Geq’l Chairman, Piedmont, W. Va.; D. O. Martin, Gen’l S. ft T., Hampstead, Md. No. 71 — Division covers the Minneapolis ft St Louis Ry. A. L. Gardner, Gen’l Chair- man, Steamboat Rock. Iowa; J. C. Sand- mier, Gen’l S. ft T., Waukee, Iowa. No. 72 — Division covers Southern Pacific Ry., Atlantic System. A. E. Leisure. Gen’l Chairman, No. 622 Euclid Ave., Houston, Texas ; W. J. B addon, Gen’l S. ft T., 232 Stafford st., San Antonio, Tex. No. 73, CHATTANOOGA, TENN. — W. T. Roush. Chief Tel.. 241 Vine st., Chatta- nooga, Tenn.; Wilson Hanson, S. ft T., 604 Temple Court Bldg., Chattanooga, Tenn. No. 74 — Division covers Hudson ft Manhat- tan R. R. H. G. Phelps, Gen’l Chairman, 1736 Lexington ave., New York, N. Y.; J. V. Sheevers, Gen’l S. ft T., 468 W. 58th st., New York, N. Y. No 76— Division covers Ft Smith ft West- ern Ry. J. W. May den, Gen’l Chairman, Weieetka, Okla.; F. L. Thurman, Gen’l S. ft T., Dustin, Okla. No. 76 — Division covers Chicago ft North- western R. R. System; Pierre. Rapid City ft Northwestern Ry.; Wyoming ft North- western Ry. Meets subject to call of Gen- eral or Local Chairman. E. J. Thomas, Gen’l Chairman. Suite 547-548 Webster bldg., 327 S. LaSalle st., Chicago. 111.; R. B. Boyington, Gen’l S. ft T., Suite 547-648 Webster bldg., 327 S. LaSalle st., Chioago, III. Chicago Terminal Levermen meet third Tuesday of each month at 10 a. m. and 8 p. m., 180 West Washington st., Chi- cago, 111. No. 78— OLEAN, N. Y.— G. E. Johnson. Chief Telegrapher, 203 Mechanic st., Smethport, Pa. J. C. Alden, S. ft T., Angelica, N. Y. No. 79 — Division covers Denver & Salt Lake R. R. F. W. Weasel, General Chairman, Fraser. Colo.; A. E. Woodworth, G. S. ft T.. Tolland, Oolo. No. 88 — Division covers the Bangor ft Aroo- stook Railroad Systems. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. Q. R. Lilley, Gen’l Chairman, Sherman Sta., Me.; J. L. Rob- bins, Gen’l S. ft T., Grindstone, Me. No. 88— Division covers the Texas ft Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. J. P. Abney, Gen’l Chair- man, Weatherford, Tex.; W. A. Cana fax. Gen’l 8. ft T., Weatherford, Tex. No. 91, CHICAGO. ILL.— Meets 1st Saturday of each month at 8:15 p. m., in Hall 912, Masonic Temple, cor. Randolph and State sts., Chicago, III. A. Ged&n, Chief Tel, 1642 N. Wells st., Chicago. Ill; B. F. Rob- erts, S. ft T., 6317 Greenwood ave., Chi- cago, 111. No. 92 — Division covers the Buffalo, Roches- ter ft Pittsburg Railway System. Meets subject to the call of Chairman. E. H. Eastman, Gen’l Chairman, 632 Wood ave., Du Bois, Pa.; G. H Miller, G. S. ft T„ 1000 E. Mahoning st, Punxsutawney. Pa. No. 96 — Division covers Chicago Great West- ern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. A. L. Coleman. Gen’l Chair- man. 550 Freeman ave., Kansas City, Kan.; G. A. Ott, Gen’l S’. ft T., Box 88, Deerfield, 111. No. 99, COBALT, ONT.— Covers Temlskmm- ing ft Northern Ontario Ry. Meets on call of GenT Chairman. R. Richardson, Chief Tel., Timmins, Ont; R. Workman. Oen’l Chairman, North Bay, Ont.; J. A. Pelkie, S. ft T., North Bay, Ont. No. 108, ADDISON, N. Y. — Meets subject U> call of Chief Telegrapher. L* L. Lerch, Chief Tel., Knoxville, Pa.; E. a Cole, S. ft T., Westfield. Pa. No. Ill — Division covers Los Angeles ft Salt Lake R. R. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. H. M. Hearn. Gen’l Chairman. Room 227, O. S. L. Station, Salt Lake City, Utah. W. D. McGee, GenT S. ft T.. S493 Bsgto st., Los Angeles, Cal. Digitized by Google

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Thb Bailboad Teleqbaphbb. 423 No. 118— Division covers the Ulster ft Dela- ware System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. G. C. Hedges, Gen’l Chairman, Mt. Pleasant. N. Y.; Q. E. Griffin. G. S. ft T., Halcottville. N. Y. No. 114— ANNAPOUS ROYAL, N. S.— H. A. Jacques. Chief Tel., Middleton, N. S.; Stan- ley Tavener, S. A T., Tuppervllle, Anna Co., N. S. No. Ill— Division covers Quebpc Ry., Light A Power Co/s Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman, fi. Richard, Chairman, 199a Crown st.. Quebec, Quo.; J. E. Potvln, S. A T., Glffard, Quebec, Can. ~ No. 116— Division covers the Duluth. South Shore A Atlantic Railway System. Meets 2d Sunday of February. April. June, Au- gust. October and December, in place des- ignated by Gen’l Chairman. P. M. Still- man, Gen’l Chairman. Seney, Mich.; C. W. Danielson, Gen'l S. A T.. Chassell. Mich. No. 118— Division covers Kanawha A Michi- gan Railway System. A. P. Hines. Gen’l Chairman. R. F, D. 4, Glouster, Ohio; R. M. Henderson, Gen’l S. & T., 839 South st., Toledo, Ohio. No. 119 — Division covers the Minneapolis, St. Paul A Sault Ste. Marie Railway System. G. W. Lewis, Gen’l Chairman, 2921 Chicago ave., Minneapolis, Minn.; F. C. Paine, Gen’l S. A T., Ersklne, Minn. No. 120 — Division covers Lake Brie & West- ern Railway System. J. M. Morrow, Gen’l Chairman, 1419 Commerce ave., Indianap- olis, Ind.; M. A. Steckel, Gen’l S. A T., Atlanta, Ind. No. 124 — Division covers Lehigh Valley Rail- way System. C. W. Leh. Gen’l Chairman, 19 N. West, Allentown. Pa.: M. M. Crane, Gen’l S. A T., 207 South West st., Geneva, N. Y. No. 130 — Division covers Chicago, Burling- ton & Quincy Railroad System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. W. F. Denton, Gen'l Chairman. Sterling, Neb.; E. F. Todd, Ass't Gen’l Chairman, Sandwich. 111.; J. H. Rogers, Gen’l fcj. A T., 1505 Market st., La Crosse, Wis. No. 131, TRING JUNCTION, QUE.— J. P. Gagnon, Chief Tel., St. Anselme, Que. ; J. E. Marcoux, S. & T., Tring Jet., Que. No. 133. GLACE BAY, N. S.— A. Ferguson, Chief Tel., Mira Gut, N. S.; C. H. Dow, S. & T., P. O. Box 4, Bridgeport, N. S; No. 137— Division covers El Paso ft South- western Railway System. C. M. Arm- strong. G. C. and G. S. ft T., Vaughn. N. Mex.; A. T. Hummel. Ass’t Gen’l Chair- man, Osborn, via Naco, Aria. No. 140 — Division covers Maine Central Rail- road System.' Meets subject to call of Chairman. E. J. Hayes, Gen’l Chairman, Leeds Junction, Me.; H. N. Bates, GenT S. ft T., Gardiner, Me. No. 141 — Division covers San Antonio ft Aransas Pass Railroad System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. H. H. Heph*r, Acting Gen’l Chairman. Shiner, Tex.; R. O. Little, Gen’l S. ft T., Box 805, Wallis, Tex. No. 142 — Division covers the Green Bay & Western Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. H. R. Olson. Gen’l Chairman, Sturgeon Bay, Wis.; L. P. Cur- ran, Gen’l S. ft T., Winona, Minn. No. 144 — Division covers the Trinity ft Brazos Valley Railway System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. J. C. Yancey, Gen'l Chairman. Cooledge. Tex.; N. B. Anderson, Gen’l S. & T., Tomball, Tex. No. 125— Division covers Richmond. Freder- icksburg ft Potomac Railway System. Meets at 8 p. m., the 2d Friday of each month, at Fredericksburg, Va. Z. Talbot, Gen’l Chairman, R. F. D. 4, Alexandria, Va.; J. c. Farmer. Gen’l S. ft T., 712 Main st, Fredericksburg, Va. No. 126— Division covers Chicago, Rock Is- land ft Pacific Railway System. W. F. Kay, Gen’l Chairman, Room 1, 304 W. 63d ■t., Chicago, 111.; A. A Dickens, Vice- Chairman. Jerlco, Tex.; W. H. Dunnam, Gen’l g. ft T., Room 1, S04 W. 63rd st., Chicago. 1IL No. 127. VIRGINIA. MINN.— Meets second Sunday each month at 2 p. m., Commu- nity HaH. Albom. Minn. T. A. Clark, Chief TeL, Forbes, Minn.; L. J. Brousseau, S. ft T., Lock Box 14, Burnett, Minn. No. 145 — Division covers the Ft. W. ft D. C. Ry. System. Q. C. Webster, Gen’l Chair- man, Box 662, Dalhart, Tex.; S. L. Green- wood, G. S. ft T.f Box 193, Bowie, Tex. No. 146 — Division covers the Atlanta, Bir- mingham ft Atlantic Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. Owen D. Gorman, Gen’l Chairman, Mauk, Ga.; C. A Pye, Gen’l S. ft T., Ideal, Ga. No. 147— Division covers the Norfolk South- ern Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. E. S. Weeks, Gen’l Chair- man. Tuscarora, N. C.; Miss S. D. Tuylor, Gen’l S. ft T., Wilson, N. C. No. 148 — Division covers Lehigh ft Hudson River Ry. J. 8. Lawrence, Gen’l Chair- man, Chester, N. Y.; Geo. S. Parry, Gen’l S. ft T., Buttzville, N. J. Digitized by Google

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424 The Railboad Telegrapheb. No. 150— Division covers Colorado and South- ern R. K. and Denver Union Terminal. Rufus C. Bonney, Gen’l Chairman, Box 54, Boulder, Colo.; James Muir, Qen’l Chair- man Denver Union Terminal, 809 ft 15th st., Denver, Colo.: Wm. McGrath, Gen’l S. & T., Box 1677, Denver, Colo. No. 153 — Division covers the Western Pacific Ry. V. W. Breeding, Gen’l Chairman. 770 Eleventh st., Oakland, Cal.; Guy M. Blair, Acting G. S. & T., Elko, Nev. No. 166, HAMILTON, ONT.— Covers Toronto, Hamilton & Buffalo Ry. Meets 2d Sunday of each month at 8:30 p. m.. In I. O. O. F. Hall, Temple bldg., Gore st., Hamilton, Ont. R. P. Nevillis, Chief Tel., 221 Robinson st., Hamilton. Ont.; E. D. Armstrong, S. St T.t 258 Caroline st., S. Hamilton. Ont. No. 156, BOSTON, MASS.— Meets in Rath- bone Hall, 694 Washington st., Boston, Mass., 8d Thursday each month, 1 p. m. to 5 p. m. Robert H. Buxton, Chief TeL, 8 Dresden st., Jamaica Plain, Boston, Mass.; W. E. Trussed. S. & T., 28 Lath- rop st., Newton ville. Mass. No. 167 — Division covers the Rutland Ry, Meets 3d Friday each month. Bard we 11 Hotel, Rutland, Vt. H. R. Clarke, Gen'l Chairman, East Dorset, Vt. E. V. Page, Gen’l S. & T.. Chatham, N. T. No. 158 — Division covers the Panama Ry. A. V. Loses, Gen’l Chairman, Box 17, Pedro Miguel, Canal Zone; W. L Scofield, G. S. St T., Pedro Miguel. Canal Zone. No. 160 — Division covers the Florida East Coast Ry. A. F. Bauer, Gen’l Chairman, 225 Central ave., Miami. Fla.; J. F. Hol- land. Gen’l S. & T., East Palatka, Fla. No. 161 — Division covers the O. W. Ry. and N. Co. J. V. Mitchell. Gen'l Chairman, Lillian Apts., 381 ft Sixth st., Portland, Ore.; O. R. McNaoo, G. S. & T., 543ft Kerby at.. Portland, Ore. No. 168 — Division covers the K. C. M. & O. Ry. K. C. Pankhurst, Gen'l Chairman, Schulte, Kan.; D. O. Kennedy, Gen’l S. St T., Clinton. Okla. No. 164 — Division covers the Ann Arbor R. R. H. J. Workman, Gen’l Chairman, Box 69, Frankfort, Mich.; F. E. Gum, G. S. St T., 3111 Erie st., Toledo, Ohio. No. 165 — Division covers the Northwestern Pacific Ry. P. G. Sanborn, Gen’l Chair- man, 25 Bonita ave., Sausalito, Cal.; L. E. Green. Gen'l S. & T., Ross. Cal. No. 166 — Division covers the Gulf Coast Lines, New Iberia & Northern and Houston Belt & Terminal Railroads. Meets La Dor Temple, Houston, Tex., subject to call of General Chairman. D. E. Young, Gen’l Chairman, Box 616, Eunice, La.; J. H. Mc- Lane, G. S. St T., Box “E,” La Ferla, Tex. No. 167 — Division covers the Georgia St Flor- ida Ry. A. 8. Wright, Gen’l Chairman, Ray City, Ga.; D. F. Rush, Gen’l S. & T., Hazelhurst, Ga. No. 168 — Division covers the C. St A. Ry. E. E. Gents. Gen’l Chairman, Bratdwood. I1L; Thos. Riley. Gen’l S. & T., Atlanta. IIL No. 171 — Division covers Central Vermont Ry. H. J. Gtbbs, Gen'l Chairman. Y antic. Conn.; L. J. Mannie, Gen'l S. St T., St. Alexander Sta., Que. No. 172 — Division covers the Oregon #Short Line Ry. J. Stloe, Gen'l Chairman. Poca- tello, Idaho; S. B. Summers, Gen’l S. St T., Roy, Utah. No. 173 — Division covers the T. & O. C. and Z. & W. R. R. F. H. Simon, Gen'l Chair- man, Raymond, Ohio; C. B. Moore. Gen'l Chairman, Z. St W. R. R., SatiUo, Ohio; W. T. Cox, Gen'l S. St T., 1061 Paimwood ave.. Toledo. Ohio. No. 174 — Division covers the Missouri, Okla- homa St Gulf Ry. W C. Mills. Gen’l Chair- man, Fairland, Okla.; W. L Williams. Gen’l S. & T., 611 Denison st., Muskogee, Okla. No. 175 — Division covers the Carolina. Cllnchfleld St Ohio Ry. A. R. Beam. Gen’l Chairman, Forest City, N. C.: C. Q. Tay- lor. Gen'l 8. St T.. Box 235, Dante. Va. No. 177— Division covers the St. Louis. San Francisco St Texas Ry. R. L. Beal. Jr., Gen'l Chairman, 1810 N. Blvd., Ft. Worth, Tex.; T. C. Kelly, G. S. St T., Box 410. Menard. Tex. No. 178 — Division covers Tennessee Central Railroad. O. B. Cleveland, Gen'l Chair- man, Lebanon, Tenn.; E. W. Eatherly, Gen’l S. St T.. Lebanon. Tenn. No. 179 — Division covers New Orleans Great Northern R. R. B. Donald. Gen’l Chair- man. Monticello, Miss.: F. P. Barron, Gen'l S. St T.. Georgetown. Miss. No. 180 — Division covers Chicago, Terre Haute and Southern Ry. J. R. Powell. Gen’l Chairman. Vicksburg, Ind.: W. D. Hyslop, Gen’l S. & T„ 637 East 16th at., Bedford. Ind. No. 181 — Division covers Kentucky St Indiana Terminal R. R. M. B. Egan, Acting Gen'l Chairman, 1726 Portland ave., Louisville. Ky.; W. L. Kil course, Gen'l S. St T.# 1235 South 17th st., Louisville. Ky. No. 182 — Division covers Missouri St North Arkansas R, R. S. E. Bras fie Id, Acting Gen'l Chairman and G. S. St T., Searcy. Ark. No. 183 — Division covers Louisiana Railway St Navigation Co. E. E. La til, Gen'l Chair- man, 7 Wlckllflfe Apts., Baton Rouge. La.; L. J. Reynolds, G. S. & T., 609 Cotton st.. Shreveport. Lar. No. 184 — Division covers Spokane, Portland* & Seattle System. L. H. Freeland. Acting Gen’l Chairman, Washougal, Wash.; J. W. Beckon. Gen’l S. St T.. Carson. Wash. No. 186 — Division covers Georgia, Florida St Alabama Ry. J. W. Keen. Gen’l Chairman, Benevolence, Ga. ; J. F. Stephens, Gen'l S. & T., Havana, Fla. Digitized by Google

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Ntfe.. Wm W JzZ/ll mm Mi ~jg$ & ,s'%"-v>. Mm ^:* - :r.-> : > . - * *■ ■ WSmWr - \, . ... IV. I Ci)t Order of ixailroab (Erlcgrapijcrs srns•! * >n iam ait \r i - POST r. m ACCEPT A Xi ’ I : !•*); MAILIN’, i I VIAL - AM’ Ol POSTAiIi: PlioVII i. I 1 :; \ . • OCTOBER i:»17. \> i 'r 5V: * r, v, . ; . t • : ■- ,'V? { VOLUME XXXVII 1 NUMBER 4 ;,v.v Ii 1020 1 APRIL ] Digitized by V.1 U I C

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ImIi THF F: \ I I.Ii* ti a brand new Oliver Nine direct to .'fl,ir "tdec or home for five da\V free trial; it dues not 1 ' ou a cent r are you under the slightest obligation to buy. ^ c give you the oppor- tunity to be your own sales- man and save S4a. \ on arc the sole judge. X salesman need influence you If you decide to keep the Oliver, pay us at the rate of Sa per month If you do not v. ldi to keep it. we even refund the out-going trans- port.item charges. That is all there is to our plan. It is simplicity itself. Our Finest Model This Oliver Nine is the finest, the costliest, the most successful model we have ever built. It any typewriter Money Down! You Decide to Buy a worth $100, it is this hand- "'»me machine — the greatest Oliver triumph. Regardless of price, do not spend one cent upon any typewriter — whether new, second-hand, or rebuilt — do not even rent a machine until you have investigated thor- oughly our proposition. Save $43 Now Note the two-way coupon. Send at once for the free-trial Oliver, or for our startling book entitled “The High Cost of Typewriters — The Reason and the Remedy.” This amazing book exposes the follies of the old selling plans and tells the whole story of the Oliver Rebellion. \\ ith it we send a new cata- log. picturing and describing the Oliver Nine. Don’t turn over this page without clipping the coupon. Canadian Price , $72 The Oliver Typewriter Co. 1504 Oliver Typewriter Bldg. Chicago, 111. SEND COUJ FREE THF OLIVER TYPEWRITER COMP A. 1504 Oliver Typewriter Bid?.. Chicago. I _ 1 | Ship me o new Oliver Nine for five day* frw t ■■ t l ''ill P»y $57 ot the rate of S3 per t 1 " to remain tn you until fully paid for My Shipping point la... ..... .... I Th > loon not place mo under any obturation to bar *"■'» t), • 1 Hlvtr. 1 will ship It back at yoar expense at < tfc j I I ' not sen d u machine until 1 order It. Ma<l Mr t ..h ‘ IJ Hijfh Co-it of Typewriters— The Reason audti* } — '• ‘ 1 deluxe caUloB and further InformaUoiT Name . Street Addroit#... ...... Clt* State.. D|itized9)^G4M» «c. Mu.iuc*. —

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention Thb Hailboao Telegrapher. 145 More Than A Work Shirt Roomy — neat fitting — comfort- able and well made of specially selected fabrics noted for their unusual strength and wearing qualities. Signal Shirts Made of TffmTitrn^r Fabrics have made a record as the best in work shirts. But they are more than work shirts. Made in several patterns, with two detachable laundered collars (a tpecial Signal feature) they are neat on the street as well as at work. Ask your dealer to show you the Signal Shirt. If he has none in stock send us his name and your size and we'll see that he gets one for you. HILKER-WIECHERS MFG. COMPANY Dept. D1246 Mound Ave. Racine, Wia. lilt Tttt' Google Digitized by

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J. E. DEVEAU J. P. DUGAL, Chairman J. E. MARCOUX R. E. RHEAULT O. R. T. GENERAL COMMITTEE— QUEBEC CENTRAL RAILWAY Digitized by Google

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Labor in Politics LABOR, because of the unfair treatment received from those who have represented (or misrepresented) it in the legislative halls of the Federal and State Governments decided a few months ago to enter the political arena. The preliminary “bouts” between the toilers and the reactionaries began when Labors’ non-partisan ticket was put in the field at the recent city elections, which were held in many different states. Labor has cause to rejoice at the results attained, for it was a most satisfactory and gratifying showing considering the fact thaJ our political organization is still in an embryo state. The democratic an# republican parties in many cities endeavored to beat the labor vote by fusiqp. East St. Louis, a city of nearly one hundred thou- sand population and th£ home of a stand-pat reactionary, Congressman Roden- berg, elected a straight labor ticket. Hundreds of other cities did likewise. The fight is now on in earnest and it behooves the toilers and their friends to enter into this political campaign vigorously and if this is done there is no question about die final result. The conviction of the labor leaders that organized labor would support their non-partisan political policy with energy and enthusiasm has been proven beyond a doubt. The movement has been overwhelmingly indorsed by the activity displayed in the spring elections. Co-operation has been heartily given by central bodies and the affiliated organizations in the A. F. of L. The Exec- utive Committee of the American Federation of Labor’s National Non-Parti- san Political Campaign Committee needs not only moral co-operation and support, but financial support in order to make this movement complete in each detail. The old “line” politician is worried more than ever before. They have Digitized by Google

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426 The Railroad Telegrapher. been making sport of the claim that Labor was going to control the legislative functions of the country by electing Congressmen to the next Congress, but it is evident that they are now entertaining different views on this subject Through the American Federation of Labor and affiliated organizations. Thou- sands of committeemen are being organized to “elect our friends and defeat our enemies.” No true union man or woman will fail to heed the plea of the officers of the American Labor movement that partisan politics should be forgotten and cast aside in the coming elections and every effort must be put forth by each member of organized labor to secure the support of the voters for candidates who have been tried and found not wanting by labor and its friends. Every method known to the astute and versatile politician will be used in his endeavor to win once more — mud of various hues will probably be thrown in an effort to becloud the real issues of the campaign. Let none be deceived by the clever oratory of the pernicious office seekers, but adhere to the policy which has been outlined by the non-partisan committee in charge of the cam- paign. The workers and producers have a wonderful opportunity open for them at this time, and it is anticipated that the workers of America will be as progressive in the political field as they have been in the industrial and agri- culture industry. The toilers of the European countries have recently displayed wonderful progressive tendencies in the political sphere, and secured concessions from Government that was only a few years ago considered a utopian dream— The American workers can and must do better. The enactment of such laws as the recent railroad bill — the Kansas anti-strike law and many other per- nicious and iniquitous laws which have been placed on the statutes books of the Nation and States by our misrepresentatives has forced those who labor industrially or agriculturally to accept the challenge. Labor Views with alarm the brazen effrontery of the United States Attor- ney General (now reported as a candidate for President) and a Federal judge in their efforts to prevent the miners from using their constitutional rights and privileges, and the toilers have justification in their views regardless of the fact that miners have finally won nearly all concessions expected. Labor did everything possible to prevent Congress enacting the present railroad laws, knowing that it was a pernicious act against the general public as well as the railroad workers. Notwithstanding our efforts, it was recognized that our endeavors would be in vain, due to the fact that those who were sup- posed to represent the people were bent on representing only certain interests. This fact is clearly indicated by the action of Congress passing hurriedly the Esch-Cummins measure as it came from the committee instead of scrutinizing it with a careful and critical eye and mind and thereby arriving at a thorough understanding of the proposed law. It is assumed without any partisan bias that only a very small minority of the representatives who voted for this bill really knew what they were voting for. They probably realize at this time, for the railroad workers have demonstrated by the illegal strikes which have taken place during the past few days their opinion of such legislation. By this demonstration let Congress take warning. Labor must elect men as representatives in the lawmaking tribunals who will heed the call of the people. This can only be done by putting your shoul- der to the political wheel and work for candidates who are sincere friends of those who labor. Millions of American workers enter the political campaign full of con- fidence and with the assurance that right shall prevail and that victory shall perch upon the brow of labor. Digitized by CsOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 427 Handling United States Mail Several weeks ago the Interstate Commerce Commission issued an order which became effective March 1st, reading in part as follows: "Where the railroad companies are required by the department to perform side, terminal or transfer service, they shall be separately compensated for such service, unless the service is performed in or directly contiguous to railway terminals and depots. The amount to be paid therefore shall be measured by the amount paid by the railroad to contractors plus 3 per cent; and where the service is performed by agents or employees of the railroad companies the payment shall be for the value of the pro rata time of such railway agents or employees while engaged in rendering the service, including cost of vehicular service that may be necessary, with the addition of 3 per cent. • • • • • "The railroad companies shall also furnish the postmaster general each year, on or before July 1, a detailed statement of the daily time consumed In handling the malls by their agents or employees at each point where side, terminal or transfer service is performed, which statement shall be verified by a responsible official of the company conversant with the facts, and such verified statement shall compute the pro rata payment of the agent or employee performing the service, based on the time actually consumed, and the amount named in the statement plus 3 per cent shall constitute the basis of payment for the next ensuing year, unless in special cases, and for good cause, the postmaster general may require further statements and veri- fications from any particular railroad company at other periods of the year/* Our organization has opposed the handling of the United States mail and parcel post to and from the station and post office and the question has been one of bitter and acrimonious debate in our conventions. The report of President H. B. Perham to the Seattle Convention in May, 1917, read in part as follows anent the handling of mall and parcel post: "In accordance with the railway mail pay enactment the Postmaster- General has rendered his statement to the Interstate Commerce Commission. In the near future hearings will be arranged at Washington, at which time the subject of railway mail pay will receive consideration. On account of there being no special appropriation for side and transfer service, and our membership in many places being still required to carry the mail without extra compensation, therefore request has been made that we intervene, A it Is likely that such request will be granted if appearance and oral request be made. The intention has been to request that an adequate appro- priation be made for side and transfer service, in order that we may be in position to obtain proper allowances from the carriers where our members are required to perform the service. About seventeen thousand exhibits have been secured to support our contentions, the arguments have been prepared, and we now await notice of the hearings. It Is recommended that this program be carried out." While It has taken several months for the Interstate Commerce Commission to consider this matter before rendering a decision, the telegrapher and station agent Is gratified that our contentions have been sustained. President Manion has issued instructions to the General Chairmen to use their efforts to have the handling of United States mall and parcel post taken away from our members. Digitized by Google

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428 The Railboad Telegrapher. Labor’s Political Banner Unfurled (By Samuel Gompers.) Americans are beginning the process of formulating judgment as to what kind of government they are to have during the four years following March 4 next. Democracy is shaping its mind for the expression of a verdict of paramount importance. Every American citizen has a right to express his opinion about the issues at stake and every American citizen has a right to a vote in helping to determine what shall be the concrete expression of the whole people. Likewise every group has the same right. There have been few general elections in the United States which involved to a greater degree the every-day welfare and happiness of the people, few which to a greater degree involved fundamental rights and liberties. The American Federation of Labor, fully conscious of the character of the issues involved in this struggle, has declared the necessity for concerted action by Labor for the election of candidates who are friendly to Labor and particularly the defeat of those, who are enemies of Labor. Pursuant to instructions voted by the Atlantic City Convention of the American Federation of Labor, Labor's National Non-Partisan Political Campaign Committee has been organized for the purpose of directing the fight for the interests of the American working people. The fight is on. In this fight Labor will seek the election of fit candidates by a show of the records and of the facts. Labor has no weapon but the truth, no force but the force of reason and argument. Its appeal is to the heart and the brain of America. Its aim is the welfare of the American nation, the safeguarding of the American democracy. The position now taken by Labor is not new. Labor has always sought the supremacy of right. Labor's partisanship, in America, has been to principles, not to parties or to men. The partisanship of Labor in this campaign is a partisanship to principles vital to American life and liberty. As in all human affairs men are the agencies for the development and safe- guarding of principles. So men must be elected in the contest to come. But they must be men who stand tried and true for principles. The rights of Labor have been seriously menaced by many present holders of political place. The right to cease work, to strike, has been placed in jeopardy. The writ of Injunction has been so abused that the injunction process of today would scarcely be recognized by its originators. Greed and power have sought to distort every process to the end that human aspirations may be suppressed and human welfare made secondary to profits and plunder. More than a year has passed since silence settled over the battlefields, yet in all that time not one measure of really reconstructive character has been placed upon the nation's statute books. The national machinery of government seems to have been paralyzed into either Inaction or reaction by the cessation of hostilities. And never was the world so starved for great, fundamental progress. Millions of men and women in America and everywhere came out of the war with a devout and inspiring faith in the future. There was a magnificent willing- ess to give time and effort to the bettering of human conditions and human relations. Aspiration and ambition were purer throughout the world than ever in the time of our written history. The vulture of the world had been slain and faith In the inherent goodness of democracy was sublime and complete.

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 429 Greed brushed all this aside. Greed was ruthless. Faith and hope and aspira- tion may be good, but Greed loves gain more. Greed laid a paralyzing hand upon the warm, human embtions and ideals of the people. For more than a year this paralysis has persisted. Money greed, political greed, greed for place and power — these have been among us, undoing our will and striking at our liberties. The banner that Labor unfurls in this campaign is the banner of humanity. Labor contends certain definite fundamental rights. These rights are essential rights that have to do with the daily lives of millions of people. But the safeguard- ing of these rights means safety for all people, opportunity for all, justice for all. The sun cannot shine for one, or for a group. The sun shines for all. Principles of liberty and justice for which Labor contends are principles of liberty and justice for every American. Labor, in this campaign as always, is fighting the battle of the American people against that small but powerful group which constantly and surreptitiously filches from the people their liberty and perverts justice. The enemies of Labor will go to great lengths to show that Labor's fight is a narrow and a partisan fight for the sole benefit of union men. Labor's fight is a partisan fight for the benefit of union men; a partisan fight for principles which are of benefit to union men and all men. The American labor movement plunged into the winning of the World War for union men — and for all men. Union men need liberty and justice and the fulness of democracy and they are willing to fight for those things. But union men cannot win those things for themselves alone. If they are won they are won for all people . American labor is today contending for the rights of the great masses of the people in the true American spirit and methods. Privilege may fight for that which benefits privilege alone. Privilege has fought for those things ever since privilege came to be set apart from the common weal. But justice cannot be the possession of a group, because there is not justice until there is justice for all. Labor cannot win rights for a few, it cannot cause the sun to shine upon a group. It must contend for fundamentals that apply to the whole people and for those it can never cease contending. The interest of Labor extends to every measure that has to do with human welfare. The reason for this is the simple reason that what is known as Labor is an aggregate of human beings. ' Labor is not something that is impersonal. It is not like a machine nor is it like a corporation. It is the sum total of the lives of all those who are useful to the world. Therefore, the interest of Labor in legislation is no limited interest falling between any two given points. It is an interest that completes the circle touching everything that has to do with human relations. Congress cannot do any single thing in which Labor is not interested. A study of the documents, resolutions and declarations adopted by Labor will disclose to those not familiar with the records the broad, active, day-to-day interest that Labor manifests in everything that concerns the welfare of our civilization. An examination of Labor's recent documentary declarations may be of interest at this time. The range of subjects covered in labor documents produced during the last two years may be astonishing but certainly not more so than the thoroughness and logic with which the various questions have been treated. Labor's approach to questions of public interest is from a basis of intimate con- tact with the realities of life. Its analysis starts from a beginning of truth. Digitized by Google

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430 The Railroad Telegrapher. Taking from the documents of recent months produced by Labor the declaration! upon specific points, the demands for definite things, the attacks upon itemized evils, and grouping them together according to the subjects dealt with, there is produced a document which leaves untouched scarcely any question of broad public interest now before our people. It will be valuable to all to know the range of Labor thought as found In an analysis of this kind. The selection and grouping of paragraphs from Labor’s declarations which follow here could be materially enlarged but the selection made will be found complete in itself and a revelation of Labor’s sound position and determined attitude to wrest progress for humanity from those forces which continuously seek to protect reaction and greed : LABOR’S PURPOSE. It is the duty of trade unionists, their friends and sympathizers, and aU lovers of freedom, justice and democratic ideals and institutions, to unite in defeating those seeking public office who are indifferent or hostile to the peoples interests and the aspirations, of labor. ( From Labor's letter to all central bodies upon opening th 4 political campaign , Feb. 24, 1920.) We call upon all those who contribute service to society in any form to unite in the furtherance of the principles and purposes and for the rectification of the grievances herein set forth. We call especial attention to the fact that there is a great community of interest between all who serve the world. All workers, whether of the city or country, mine or factory, farm or transportation, have a common path to tread and a common goal to gain. The issues herein enumerated require the action of our people upon both the economic and political field. We urge that every practical action be taken by the American Federation of Labor, with the co-operation of all other .organized bodies of workers, farmers and sympathetic liberty loving citizens of the United States, to carry into effect the principles and purposes set forth in the declarations of this conference. We call upon all to Join us in combating the forces of autocracy, industrial and political, and in the sublime task of ridding the world of the power of those who but debase its processes and corrupt its functions. {From Labor , Its Grievance. Protests and Demands , adopted by Labor's Conference , December 13, 1919.) HIGH COST OF LIVING AND PROFITEERING. No factor contributes more to industrial unrest and instability than excessive costs of necessaries of life. It Is a demonstrated truth that the cost of living has advanced more rapidly than have wages. The claim that increasing wages make necessary increased prices is false. Existing high and excessive prices are due to the present Inflation of money and credits, to profiteering by those who manufacture, sell and market products and to burdens levied by middlemen and speculators. We urge: The deflation of currency; prevention of hoarding and unfair price fixing; estth- lishment of co-operative movements operated under the Rochdale system; making accessible all income tax returns and dividend declarations as a direct and truthful means of revealing excessive costs and profits. ( From Labor , Its Grievances , Protests and Demands adopted by Labor's Conference , December 13, 1919.) PUBLICITY OF PROFITS. It is essential that legislation should provide for the federal licensing of all cor porations organized for profit. Furthermore, federal supervision and control should Include the increasing of capital stock and the incurring of bonded indebtedness with the provision that the books of all corporations shall be open at all times to fodersl Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 431 examiners. ( From report of the Reconstruction Committee , adopted by American Federation of Labor convention , June, 1919.) COOPERATION. There are many problems arising from production, transportation and distribu- tion which would be readily solved by applying the methods of co-operation. Unnec- essary middlemen who exact a tax from the community without rendering any useful service can be eliminated. The farmers, through co-operative dairies, canneries, packing houses, grain eleva- tors, distributing houses and other co-operative enterprises, can secure higher prices for their products and yet place these in the consumers’ hands at lower prices than would otherwise be paid. There is an almost limitless field for the consumers in which to establish co-operative buying and selling, and in the most necessary develop- ment, the trade unionists should take an Immediate and active part. Trade unions secure fair wages. Co-operation protects the wage-earner from the profiteer. Participation in these co-operative agencies must of necessity prepare the mass of the people to participate more effectively in the solution of the industrial, commer- cial, social and political problems which continually arise. ( From report of the Ro construction Committee adopted by American Federation of Labor convention, June. 1919.) HIQH COST OF LIVING AND HOUSING. The ownership of homes, free from the grasp of exploitative and speculative interests, will make far more efficient workers, more contented families and better citizens. The government should, therefore, inaugurate a plan to build model homes and establish a system of credits whereby the workers may borrow money at a low rate of interest and under favorable terms to build their own homes. Credit should also be extended to voluntary non-profit making housing and joint tenancy associations. States and municipalities should be freed from the restrictions preventing their undertaking proper housing projects and should be permitted to engage in other necessary enterprises relating thereto. The erection and maintenance of dwellings where migratory workers may find lodging and nourishing food during the periods of unemployment should be encouraged and supported by municipalities. If need should arise to expend public funds to relieve unemployment the building of wholesome houses would best serve the public interests: ( From report of the Reconstruction Committee adopted by American Federation of Labor convention, June, 1919.) HIGH COST OF LIVING AND AGRICULTURE. The private ownership of large tracts of usable land is not conducive to the best interests of a democratic people. Legislation should be enacted placing a graduated tax upon all usable lands above the acreage which is cultivated by the owner. Establishment of government experimental farms, measures for stock raising Instruction, the irrigation of arid lands and reclamation of swamp and cut-over lands should be undertaken upon a larger scale under direction of the Federal Government Municipalities and States should be empowered to acquire lands for cultivation. (SVom report of the Reconstruction Committee adopted by American Federation of Labor convention , June , 1919.) TAXATION. Taxatioh should provide for full contribution from wealth by a tax upon profits which will not discourage industrial or commercial enterprise. There should be provided a progressive increase in taxes upon incomes, inherit- ances and land values, of such a nature as to render it unprofitable to hold land Digitized by Google

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432 The Railroad Telegrapher. without putting it to use, to afford a transition to greater economic equality and to supply means of liquidating indebtedness growing out of the war. ( From report of the Reconstruction Committee adopted by American Federation of Labor convention, June , 1919.) PUBLIC EDUCATION. The government should exercise advisory supervision over public education and where necessary maintain adequate public education through subsidies without giving to the government power to hamper or interfere with the free development of public education by the several States. It is essential that our system of public education should offer the wage-earners’ children the opportunity for the fullest possible de- velopment. To attain this end State colleges and universities should be developed. It is also important that the industrial education which is being fostered and developed should have for its purpose not so much training for efficiency in industry as training in life for an industrial society. A full understanding must be had of those principles and activities that are the foundation of all productive efforts. Chil- dren should not only become familiar with tools and materials, but they should also receive a thorough knowledge of the principles of human control, of force and matter underlying our industrial relations and sciences. The danger that certain commer- cial and industrial interests may dominate the character of education must be averted by insisting that the workers shall have equal representation on all boards of education or committees having control over vocational studies and training. To elevate and advance the interests of the teaching profession and to promote popular and democratic education, the right of the teachers to organize and to affiliate with the movement of the organized workers must be recognized. ( From report of the Reconstruction Committee adopted by American Federation of Labor convention. June , 1919.) CREDIT. We urge the organization and use of credit to serve production needs and not to increase the incomes and holdings of financiers. Control over credit capital should be taken from financiers and should be vested in a public agency, able to administer this power as a public trust in the interests of all the people. ( From Labor , It* Grievances „ Protests and Demands adopted by Labor's Conference , December 13, 1919.) PUBLIC UTILITIES; RAILROADS. Public and semi-public utilities should be owned, operated or regulated by the government in the interests of the public. ( Adopted by American Federation of Labor Convention , June , 1919.) And then upon the question of the disposition of the railroads the convention de- clared: We insist upon the right of the workers to organize for their common and mutual protection and in the full exercise of the normal activities which come with organization. WHARVES AND DOCKS; SHIPPING. The government should own and operate all wharves and docks connected with public harbors which are used for commerce or transportation. The American merchant marine should be encouraged and developed under gov- ernmental control and so manned as to insure successful operation and protect in fall the beneficent laws now on the statute books for the rights and welfare of seamen- The seamen must be accorded the same rights and privileges rightfully exercised by the workers in all other employments, public and private. ( From report of the R* construction Committee adopted by American Federation of Labor convention, Jtte, 1919.) WATER POWER. The nation is possessed of enormous water power. Legislation should he enaefo* providing that the governments, federal and state, should own, develop and

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 433 all water power over which they have jurisdiction. The power thus generated should be supplied to all citizens at rates based upon cost. The water power of the nation, created by nature, must not be permitted to pass into private hands for private ex- ploitation. (From report of the Reconstruction Committee , adopted by American Fed- eration of Labor Convention , June , 1919.) DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT AND THE COURTS. An insuperable obstacle of self-government in the United States exists in the power which has been gradually assumed by the Supreme Courts of the federal and state governments to declare legislation null and void upon the ground that, In the court's opinion, it is unconstitutional. It Is essential that the people, acting directly or through Congress or state legis- latures, should have final authority in determining which laws shall be enacted. Adequate steps must be taken, therefore, which will provide that in the event of a Supreme Court declaring an act of Congress or of a state legislature unconstitutional and the people acting directly or through Congress or a state legislature should re-enact the measure, it shall then become the law without being subject to annulment by any court. ( From report of the Reconstruction Committee adopted by American Federation of Labor Convention , June , 1919). The warning given by Jefferson that the danger to the people of this Republic lies in the usurpation by our judiciary of unconstitutional authority, has been fully dem- onstrated. A judiciary unresponsive to the needs of the time, arrogating to itself powers which neither the constitution nor the purposes of our laws have conferred upon them, demands that at least in our time Americans must insist upon safeguard- ing their liberties and the spirit of the sacred institutions of our Republic. We urge that the judges of our federal courts shall be elected by the people for terms not exceeding six years. We assert that there can not be found in the con- stitution of the United States or in the discussions of Congress which drafted the constitution any authority for the federal courts of our country to declare unconsti- tutional any act passed by Congress. We call upon the people of our country to de- mand that the Congress of the United States shall take action for the purpose of preventing the federal courts from continuing the usurpation of such authority. (From Labor , Its Grievances , Protests and Demands , adopted by Labor's Conference , December 13, 1919.) MILITARISM. Our labor movement distrusts and protests against militarism, because it knows that militarism represents privilege and is the tool of special interests, exploiters and despots. But while it opposes militarism, it holds that it is the duty of a nation to defend itself against injustice and invasion. The menace of militarism arises through isolating the defensive functions of the state from civic activities and from creating military agencies out of touch with masgps of the people. Isolation Is subversive to democracy — it harbors and nurtures the germs of arbitrary power. The labor movement demands that a clear differentiation be made against mili- tary service for the nation and police duty, and that military service should be care- fully distinguished from service in industrial disputes. ( From Labor's Position in Peace or in War , adopted March 12, 1917.) Conditions foreign to the Institutions of our country have prevented the entire abolition of organized bodies of men trained to carry arms. A voluntary citizen sol- diery supplies what would otherwise take its place, a large standing army. To the latter we are unalterably opposed as tending to establish the evils of “militarism.” Large standing armies threaten the existence of civil liberty. The history of every nation demonstrates that as standing armies are enlarged the rule of democracy is lessened or extinguished. Our experience has been that even this citizen soldiery, the militia of our states, has given cause at times for grave apprehension. Their Digitized by Google

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434 The Railroad Telegrapher. ranks have not always been free from undesirable elements, particularly the took of corporations involved in industrial disputes. During industrial disputes the militia has at times been called upon to support the authority of those who through selfish interests desired to enforce martial law while the courts were open and the civil authorities competent to maintain supremacy of civil law. We Insist that the militia of our several states should be wholly organized and controlled by democratic prin- ciples so that this voluntary force of soldiery may never be diverted from Its true purpose and used to Jeopardize or infringe upon the rights and liberties of our people. The right to bear arms is a fundamental principle of our government* a principle accepted at all times by free people as essential to the maintenance of their liberties and institutions. We demand that this right shall remain inviolate. (From, report of the Reconstruction Committee , adopted by American Federation of Labor Convex tiont June , 1919.) LABOR, THE BULWARK AGAINST REACTION AND CHAMPION OP INDUSTRIAL DEMOCRACY. Workers are free citizens, not slaves. They have the constitutional right to cease working. The strike is a protest against autocratic management. To penalize strikes or to make them unlawful is to apply an unwarrantable and destructive method when a constructive one is available. To reduce the necessity for strikes the cause should be found and removed. Legislation which proposes to make strikes unlawful or to compel the wage-earners to submit their grievances or aspirations to courts or to governmental agencies is an invasion of the rights of the wage-earners and when enforced makes for industrial serfdom or slavery. (From Labor , Its Grievances , Protests and Demands , adopted by Labor's Conference , December 13, 1919.) Effective legislation should be enacted which would make It criminal offense for any employer to interfere with or hamper the exercise of this right or to interfere with the legitimate activities of trade unions. ( From report of the Reconstruction Committee f adopted by American Federation of Labor Convention , June, 1919.) Labor Is fully conscious that the world needs things for use and that standards of life can improve only as production for use and consumption Increases. Labor is anxious to work out better methods for industry and demands it be assured that in- creased productivity will be used for service and not for profits alone. Labor understands fully that powerful interests today are determined to achieve reaction in industry if possible. They seek to disband or cripple the organi- zations of workers. They seek to reduce wages and thus lower the standard of living. They seek to keep free from restriction their power to manipulate and fix prices. They seek to destroy the democratic impulse of the workers which is bred Into their movement by the democracy of the American Republic. Labor must be and is militant in the struggle to combat these sinister influences and tendencies. Labor will not permit a reduction in the standard of living. It will not consent to reaction towards autocratic control. In this it is performing a public service. ( From Labor , Its Grievances , Protests and Demands , adopted by Labor1 s Con- ference, December 13, 1919.) Labor's declaration for the present campaign has been made clear and emphatic. The necessity for protecting fundamental rights and liberties is not a necessity created by Labor. It Is a necessity created by the enemies of Labor and by the enemies of the people everywhere. Labor in America is able to enter the contest and is in duty bound to enter the contest for the protection of these rights and interests because Labor is an organised unit having the ability to fight. The unorganized can make no effective protest, either politically or industrially. The industrial struggle for betterment and for progress always has been made by those who were organized. Digitized by Google

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TW Railroad Telegrapher. 435 Always the unorganized have shared in progress though contributing nothing to the fight. That the struggle now happens to turn upon the political issue changes no prin- ciples as to the methods that must be used. The American labor movement in this campaign has the right to expect and to have the support of every man and every woman to whom progress has a meaning and who finds inspiration in the enlargement of human opportunity and the protec- tion of rights and liberties already secured. The outcome of this struggle is of interest to the world. In its agony and uncertainty the world looks to America for material aid and moral leadership. It is clear that America can not provide moral leadership for others unless the moral standards as expressed by her chosen representatives are equal to the strain that will be put upon them at home, and so it is with double significance that Labor sends forth to America this year the campaign slogan: “Stand faithfully by our friends and elect them . Oppose our enemies and defeat\ (hem; whether they be candidates for President , for Congress , or other offices; whether executive , legislative , or judicial.19 Men of labor, be up and doing! Bear in mind that vigilance is the price of liberty as much today as when that salient warning was coined. Men of labor, be up and doing at the primaries as well as in the elections. Now is the time that tries men’s souls! Union Labor and the American Legion By CAPTAIN ROSCOE H. JOHNSON. International President, Commercial Telegraphers* Union. Authorization for the “loan” of rifles to each post of the American Legion, and for the sale of regular ball ammunition “at cost price” from the government arsenals in unlimited quantities, is contained in the Rogers bill recently passed by both houses of Congress. The bill provides that the purpose of the issuance of the guns was “for mili- tary funerals.” It is easy to picture just the kind of “military funerals’* Wall Street is preparing for. Franklin D’Olier, national commander of the American Legion, in an official statement, proclaims to the ex-service man with a union card in his pocket that “the members of organized labor are patriotic American citizens . . . who have proved their loyalty and their patriotism . . . and we therefore hope it will not be long before they all are active members of the American Legion.” These are indeed nice words from Mr. D’Olier. Organized labor has heard the same thing from others controlled by Wall Street. If Franklin D'Olier as national commander, and the American Legion as an organization, expect to inspire confidence in the ex-service man with a card In his pocket, the first move should be suspension of charters bearing such inscriptions as “Western Union Telegraph Company Post,” “Colorado Fuel and Iron Post,” “U. S. Steel Corporation Post,” “Western Electric Post,” “Standard Oil Post” and the like — each post equipped with the latest model army rifles and regular ball ammunition for “military funerals.” Wall Street would disrupt organized labor during the year. The average union man has reason to believe from past performances that the American Legion is at the service of Wall Street. It is going to take something more substantial than pretty words from Franklin D’Olier to convince him to the contrary. Purge the American Legion of the strong taint of Wall Street. Every ex-service man with a union card will then be proud to join up. Digitized by Google

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436 The Railroad Telegrapher. Employment Bureau The last session of the Grand Division directed that an Employment Bureau be created by the President for the purpose of securing employment in the railroad serv- ice for competent persons in the class of employes represented by our organization, and I take this opportunity of announcing that such a Bureau has now been established at my office and its service is open free of cost to qualified persons seeking such employ- ment. The employing officers on all railroads in the United States and Canada have been solicited for their co-operation in making this department a success, and the large number of favorable replies is very gratifying; the railroads in all sections ac- knowledge the value of a central office for the systematic distribution of information that will guide those in search of work, and furnisli them with suitable, accomplished employes without having to depend on the waves of incident when additional help is required. A supply of “Application for Employment” blanks has been placed in the hands of every General Chairman and General Secretary-Treasurer, and through them to all Local Chairmen, and all parties seeking employment as an Agent, Agent-Telegrapher, Telegrapher, or Towerman is requested to fill out an Employment Blank and forward to my office. The applicant will be advised of the officials of railroads on which they desire to locate, who are in need of employes. A list of railroads and officials who have filed requests for employes is available to all, and at this writing there is a demand for more than fifty agent-telegraphers and telegraphers from the following railroads : Ann Arbor Apalachicola Northern Atlantic Coast Line Central Vermont Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Chicago, Terre Haute & Southeastern Cincinnati Northern C.C.C.& St.L. (Big Four) Fort Smith & Western International & Great Northern Kanawha & Michigan Railway Co. Louisiana & Arkansas Lake Superior & Ishpeming Munising, Marquette & Southeastern Minneapolis & St. Louis St. Louis, Southwestern Southern Railway Co. Union Pacific A more than passing interest must be given this department by General and Local officers of committees and by the membership at large, as we are dependent upon that source for our information of the supply to meet the demand. Anyone in search of employment should be referred to the nearest General or Local Chairman and a blank will be furnished by the President that will enable his office to locate the applicant in a suitable position without fee. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 437 The Bipartisan Board In accordance with President Wilson’s letters of February 28th and March 1st in regard to conferences being held between a bipartisan board consisting of representa- tives of the railroads and the representatives of the standard recognized railroad organizations, conferences opened on March 22d in Washington, D. C., between sixteen ' representatives of the railroads and the sixteen chief executives of the organizations and continued for several days without any material results, due to the action of the representatives of the railroads in declining to grant the Increase in wages which was requested. On March 24th President Manion presented the following statement and re- quest in behalf of our members : Chairman Jewell: The Order of Railroad Telegraphers is next. Mr. Manion, are you prepared? • « Mr. Manion: Yes, I have only a few copies. I want to say by way of preface that a peculiar condition exists with respect to wages for the employes which our organization represents. It has been customary In the past to secure a lump sum from the railroads, then proceed to distribute it among the employes as far as it would go. There is no established basis In defining principles laid down whereby these distributions should be made, but rather a sort of helter-skelter policy, whereby you gave this man two dollars and fifty cents a month increase and the other man five dollars, and some of them only one dollar and others ten dollars trying as best you oould to really distribute the money where it was most needed with respect to the responsibilities and duties of the employes, and by reason of that policy we have built up a condition here in our organization that requires entire revamping, if we are going to initiate any degree of satisfaction among them and having this in mind, our General Chairmen, who met in Saint Louis in September last, decided to present a proposition which would have for its purpose, first to establish a proper basis, and in line with those instructions, I have presented here our proposition which was pre- sented to the Wage Board on December 4, and this is headed: MEMORANDUM OF WAGE READJUSTMENTS REQUESTED BY THE ORDER OF RAILROAD TELEGRAPHERS. For the purpose of establishing proper basic rates, we propose to reduce the number of differentials from 182 to 24. The weighted average rate of pay for all employes represented by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers based on a recent analysis of one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, after this readjustment of differentials has been effected, will be $.6418 per hour. I might say In this connection that, in accordance with, our understanding of the Director General’s Letter of August 26th to the Board we endeavored to keep our average hourly rate of pay within the confines of those existing on some of the rail- roads with which we had contractual relations. The Southern Pacific was probably the highest paid of the larger systems and their average rate of pay was about $.6420, I understand. In other words, very close to what this is — approximately $.6419, and In compiling this table we kept within the Southern Pacific average rate. To the rates of pay thus established we request an increase of $.17 per hour ap- plied horizontally to all positions coming within our jurisdiction. The following table of rates showing the present rates of pay and rates as es- tablished by the reduction in differentials and the rates requested with the $.17 per hour applied are submitted as our proposition. We show here the three different conditions, present rate, the rate as it would appear with the differentials reduced from 182 to 24, and then the rate as it would Digitized by Google

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438 The Railroad Teleorapheb. appear with the $.17 applied thereon* and I will not read this table because it is all here before you, except to say that in presenting this table we show you a statement Hght below the caption of each of these subdivisions, the number of rates in effect in each of these subdivisions. For Instance, in Agents, we show that we have one hundred and seventy-three rates of pay in effect at present for agents and this carries out through the rest of the subdivisions, and in addition we request that Sunday and Holiday compensation be paid at the rate of time and one-half. This was also presented to the Board and that is all 1 have to present in that connection. (The table la as follows) : AGENTS. 173 Rates in Effect at Present. $30.00 to $40.00, inclusive on January 1, 1918, remain at $.4800, new rate $.6500 $40.01 to $50.00, inclusive on January 1, 1918, go to $.5000, new rate $.6700 $50.01 to $57.50, inclusive on January 1, 1918, go to $.5200, new rate $.6900 $57.51 to $67.30, inclusive on January 1, 1918, go to $.5500, new rate $.7200 New New rate rate .4825 to .5200 .7700 .9025 to .9500 1.2200 .5225 .5500 .8000 .9525 1.0000 1.2700 .5525 .6675 .8200 1.0025 1.0500 1.3200 .5700 .6000 .8700 1.0525 1.1000 1.3700 .6025 *6500 .9200 1.1025 1.1500 1.4200 .6525 .7000 .9700 1.1525 1.2000 1.4700 .7025 .7500 1.0200 1.2025 1.2500 1.5200 .7525 .8000 1.0700 1.2525 1.3000 1.6700 .8025 .8500 1.1200 1.3025 1.3500 1.6200 .8525 .9000 1.1700 1.3525 1.4000 1.6700 AGENT TELEGRAPHERS— AGENT TELEPHONERS. 135 rates in effect at present for agent telegraphers. 101 rates in effect at present for agent telephoners. New New rate rate .4800 to .5200 .7700 .7025 to .7500 1.0200 .5225 .5500 .8000 .7525 .8000 ' 1.0700 .5525 .5675 .8200 .8025 .8500 1.1200 .5700 .6000 .8700 .8525 .9000 • 1.1700 .6025 .6500 .9200 .9025 .9500 L2200 .6525 .7000 .9700 GENERAL OFFICES. 121 rates in effect at present at General Offices. RELAY MANAGERS. New New rate rate .5400 to .6000 .9700 .6525 to .8600 LI 200 .6025 .6275 1.0200 .8525 .9500 L1700 .6300 .6500 1.0700 Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 43% MANAGERS AND WIRE CHIEFS. New ' New rate rate .5025 to .6275 1.0200 .6525 to .8500 1.1200 .6300 .6500 1.0700 .8525 .9500 1.1700 WIRE CHIEFS. New New fate rate .5400 to .6000 .9200 .6525 to .8500 1.0700 .6025 .6275 .9700 .8525 .9500 1.1200 .6300 .6500 1.0200 TELEGRAPHERS AND TELEPHONERS. New New rate rate .4800 to .5200 ' .7700 .6025 to .6275 .9200 .5225 .5500 .8200 .6300 .6500 .9700 .5625 .6000 .8700 .6525 .8500 1.0200 DIVISION OR SUPERINTENDENTS OFFICES. 91 rates in effect at present in Division or Superintendent's offices. New New rate rate .4800 to .5475 .7700 .7000 to .7475 .9700 ,5500 .5975 .8200 .7500 .7975 1.0200 .6000 .6475 .8700 .8000 .8475 1.0700 .6500 .6975 .9200 YARD AND TERMINAL. rates in effect at present in Yard and Terminal offices. New New rate rate .4800 to .5000 .7400 .6500 to .6975 .9200 .6025 .5475 .7700 .7000 .7475 .9700 •5500 .5975 .8200 .7500 .7975 1.0200 .6000 .6475 .8700 telegraphers, telephoners, towermen, block operators, staff MEN, PRINTERS. 94 rates In effect at present for Telegraphers. 59 rates in effect at present for Telephoners. 98 rates in effect at present for Towermen. 59 rates in effect at present for Block Operators. 15 rates in effect at present for Staffmen. 10 rates in effect at present for Printers. New New rate rate .4800 to .6200 .7400 .6025 to .6500 .8700 .5225 .5500 .7700 .6525 .7000 .9200 .5525 .5675 .8000 .7025 .7500 .9700 .5700 .6000 .8200 .7525 .8000 1.0200 Digitized by Google

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440 The Railroad Telegrapher. 4 TOWER AND TRAIN DIRECTORS. 47 rates in effect at present for Tower and Train Directors New New rate rate .4800 to .6000 .8700 .7900 to .8500 1.0700 .6025 .7000 .9200 .8525 .9000 1.1200 .7025 .7300 .9700 .9025 .9500 1.1700 .7325 .7875 1.0200 Sunday and holiday compensation to be at time and one-half time. Circular No. 3 , WAGE MOVEMENT. SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS IN CONNECTION WITH 1919-1920 WAGE MOVEMENT To Officers and Members of the Seventeen Railroad Labor Organizations Representing All Classes of Railroad Employes in the United States. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Since the issuance of our last Circular to the officers and members of the fifteen organizations, parties to the co-operative agreement we have been petitioned by and accepted to membership the following organizations: United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Em- ployes and Railroad Shop Laborers, * and Inter- national Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen and Oilers. both of which hold National Agreements with the United States Railroad Adminis- tration. This supplementary report and others that will follow from time to time are calculated to supply the membership with complete and detailed information of the progress of affairs to the end that you will be fully informed of the proceedings, from an authentic source. Following is a transcript of the correspondence exchanged between the Presi- dent of the United States, the Director General of Railroads, and your representa- tives, together with a resolution by the Executive Council of the American Federa- tion of Labor. UNITED STATES RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads. Washington. February 17, 1920. Gentlemen: I quote as follows from paragraph No. 3 of the steps which the President enumerated in his letter of 13th instant to you: “I shall at once constitute a Commit- tee of Experts to take the data already available in the various records of the United States Railroad Administration, including the records of the Lane Com- mission and of the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions, and to analyze the same so as to develop in the shortest possible time the facts bearing upon a just and reasonable basis of wages for the various classes of railroad employes with due regard to all factors reasonably bearing upon the problem and specifically to the factors of the average of wages paid for similar or analogous* labor for other industries in this country, the cost of living, and a fair living wage, so as to get the prob- lems in shape for the earliest possible final disposition. The views of this Board will serve as a guide to me in carrying out the assurance I gave to the employes last summer that I would use the full influence of the Executive to see that justice was done them and will, I believe, be a means of avoiding what might otherwise be a long-drawn-out In- vestigation of facts. While I propose to Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 441 act at once in regard to this matter, and to avoid any delay in doing so, I shall nevertheless invite the co-operation of the railroad corporations and believe they will appreciate that it is to their interest, as well as to the public interest, to get those matters promptly settled.” In order to get this matter ready for the President’s action I would like to submit to him, as soon as practicable, a concrete recommendation for the crea- tion of a Committee of Experts as out- lined in the language quoted. My thought is that such committee ought to be composed of either four or six mem- bers and that the employes should sug- gest the names of one-half of the mem- bers. I would like the benefit of your suggestions as to whether it would be better to have a committee of four or six; also to have your suggestion of two names or three names, as the case may be, for my consideration in making rec- ommendation to the President. In accordance with the plan indicated, in the language above quoted, to obtain if possible the co-operation of the rail- road corporations, I took steps last Sat- urday to obtain a meeting with the rail- road corporations to follow this matter up and I anticipate that this meeting will take place shortly, and at that meeting I will ask for the suggestion of the cor- porations also. Sincerely yours. Walker D. Hines. THE WHITE HOUSE. Washington, 28 February, 1920. Gentlemen: Your letter of the 14th instant and the subsequent arguments presented on your behalf with reference to the subject of pending claims for wage increases have had my careful con- sideration. The passage of the railroad bill by the House of Representatives on the 21st instant and by the Senate on the 23d instant, has made it evident that I could not act upon your suggestions until it should be determined whether the bill would become a law or not. It was manifest that If the bill should be- come a law the negotiations and consid- eration of the wage matter ought to pro- ceed in harmony therewith. The bill having now become a law, the way is open for immediate action on the wage matter in accordance with the terms of the bill. Section 301 of the bill evidently contemplates that the car- riers and employes should, as suggested by you, select representatives who will thus constitute a bi-partiBan board for the purpose of attempting by conference to agree upon a solution of this wage problem. In accordance with the as- surance I gave you last August and re- peated in substance in my letter of the 13th instant, I shall at once request the carriers and the employes to Join in this action. I believe such a step will go far toward clarifying and maturing the subject for final disposition. In fact, the sort of board thus contemplated by Section 301, appears to be an appro- priate substitute for the committee of experts which I have heretofore suggest- ed, and indeed such a board will be authorized to go further than such a committee could have gone. While it is true that the provisions of Section 307, of the railroad bill, relating to the labor board will probably also come into operation as tb this wage mat- ter, nevertheless the bi-partisan board can make a great deal of progress which will materially diminish the time to be consumed by the labor board; and while the bi-partisan board is functioning, the appointment and organization of the labor board can be expedited. I can not share the apprehension of yourselves and your constituents as to the provisions of the law concerning the labor board. I believe those provisions are not only appropriate in the interest of the public, which after all is princi- pally composed of workers and their families, but will be found to be particu- larly in the interest of railroad employes as a class. The argument that the public repre- sentatives on the labor board will be prejudiced against labor because drawn from classes of society antagonistic to labor can and ought to be overcome by selecting such public representatives as Digitized by Google

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442 The Railroad Telegrapher. can not be charged with any such preju- dices. Nor do I anticipate that the pub- lic representatives will be against wage increases because they involve rate in- creases. Not only must public repre- sentatives be selected who can be relied upon to do justice but the bill itself provides that the labor board shall estab- lish rates and wages and salaries which in the opinion of the board are “just and reasonable” and it is further provided that the entire labor board shall be guid- ed by the very important standards which are provided in the law, those standards including the wages paid for similar kinds of work in other industries, the relation between wages and the cost of living, the hazards of the employment the training and skill required, the de- gree of responsibility, the character and irregularity of the employment, and the correction of inequalities as the result of previous adjustments. Coupled with the direction to the labor board to take into consideration these important stand- ards is the highly important direction to the Commission to prescribe rates suf- ficient to admit of the payment of the reasonable operating expenses including, of course, fair rates of wages. My hopes are that the putting into ef- fect of these provisions with a care- fully selected labor board, whose public representatives can be relied upon to be fair to labor and to appreciate the point of view of labor that is not longer to be considered as a mere commodity will mark the beginning of a new era of bet- ter understanding between the railroad managements and their employes, and will furnish additional safeguards to the just interests of railroad labor. I am sure that every agency which will be involved in the creation of a labor board and in the conduct of negotiations fully appreciates that the wage demands are entitled to the earliest possible con- sideration and disposition, and therefore I do not anticipate delay in the appoint- ment and organization of the labor board or in the other necessary steps. Sincerely yours. Mirned) Woodrow Wilson. Messrs.: B. M. Jewell, W. S. Stone, Timothy Shea, L. E. Sheppard, W. G. Lee. S. E. Heberling, E. J. M anion, James Kline, Wm. H. Johnston, M. F. Ryan, • Louis Weyand. Jno. J. Hines, James Noonan, James J. Forrester, and D. W. Helt. Jacksonville, Fla., Feb. 24, 1920. Mr. B. M. Jewell, Acting President, Rail- road Employes* Dept., American Federation of Labor, 507 A. F. of L. Bldg.. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir and Brother: The Executive Council of the American Federation of Labor at its session today took cogni- zance of the passage of the Cummins- Esch Railroad Bill, passed by both Houses of Congress and now before the President, and the Executive Council sent a telegram to President Wilson, of which the following is a copy: “Jacksonville, Fla., Feb. 24, 1920. “Wood row Wilson, President of the United States, Washington, D. C.: “The railway bill Just passed by Con- gress and soon to receive your considera- tion has been carefully analyzed by the Executive Council of the American Fed- eration of Labor, now in regular session in Jacksonville. Fla. The Executive Council, in behalf of the American Fed- eration of Labor, urges its rejection and that the bill be resubmitted to Congress for the elimination of subtle provisions which deprive the railway employes of their rights as free men by cunningly providing for compulsory arbitration: by enabling equity courts to assume Ju- risdiction over labor relations, thereby substituting the mandatory as well as prohibitory dictums of the courts and permitting them to fix penalties at their discretion for alleged wrongdoing, as Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 443 well as reversing the American concep- tion of Innocence until proven guilty and by making state vassals of railway employes, as well as permitting the dis- integration of the associations of the railway employes. We assure you that we predicate our protest against the enactment of this bill, not upon Govern- ment ownership or even Government control, but urge that inasmuch as when the railroads were taken over by the Government and the workers were free men that when the roads are turned over to the owners for their control the work- ers should not be handed over man- acled and subjected to the tender mer- cies of the railroad owners. We assure you through the self-imposed discipline of the working people, including the railroad workers, strikes have been avoided and averted and will be if we are given the opportunity to exercise the obligations of our responsibility. If the normal activities of the workers are made unlawful no one can tell where it will lead. Other menacing features to labor as well as to the general good are contained in this bill. We therefore request your consideration and co-opera- tion in the removal of these objectionable provisions so as to do equal justice to all citizens and safeguard the freedom of all our people. “Samuel Gompers, “James Duncan, “Jos. F. Valentine, 'Trank Duffy, “William Green, “W. D. Mahon, “T. A. Rickert, “Jacob Fischer, “Matthew Woll, “Daniel J. Tobin, "Frank Morrison, “Executive Council, American Federa- tion of Labor." We shall do all things within our power for the purpose of prevailing upon the President if not to veto the meas- ure at least to request its return to the congress, so that the features inimical to the rights and interests of the workers and the people generally be eliminated. We believe it would be wiser to regard this letter sufficiently confidential, that is, that it be not given to the press until you are advised by the officers of the American Federation of Labor. The Executive Council desires me to extend to you and through you to the officers of the railroad organizations, the earnest hope for success, Yours fraternally, (Signed) Samuel Gompers, President, American Federation of La- bor. Washington, D. C.. March 3, 1920. The President, the White House. Dear Mr. President: Your letters of February 28th, and March 1st, with further reference to pending claims for wage increases by railroad employes have been received and considered fully by the Chief Executives of the organiza- tions to whom addressed. In our letter to you under date of February 14th, in response to your let- ter of February 13th, we advised that we would submit your message and the let- ter from the Director General addressed to you under date of February 12th, to the representatives of the organizations for consideration and determination. The representatives of the several or- ganizations were convened in Washing- ton, D. C., February 23d, and after care- ful and due consideration, they — while regretting that the Railroad Bill became the law — as American citizens feel that in the interest of railroad labor, there is nothing left for us to do at present except co-operate in the prompt crea- tion of the machinery provided for in the law. Complying with your request that: “The organizations select such num- ber of representatives as may seem prop- er to them to conduct conferences and negotiations contemplated in Section 301 to the end that such representatives may promptly meet in conference with the representatives selected by the railroad companies in accordance with the re- quest you are making to them, and may thus initiate the necessary proceedings." We are pleased to submit the names Digitized by Google

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'444 The Kailroad Telegrapher. of the following Chief Executives of the recognized standard railroad organiza- tions which will constitute the repre- sentatives of the employes to meet the representatives selected by the railroad companies for the purpose of discuss- ing and arranging necessary procedure to bring about a prompt' conclusion in compliance with Section 301, of the Railroad Act: Messrs. : B. M. Jewell, W. S. Stone, Timothy Shea, L. E. Sheppard, W. G. Lee, S. E. Heberling, Jas. P. Noonan. Jas. J. Forrester. E. J. M anion, In compliance with your request we are notifying the Director General to this effect. Copy of letter to him hereto at- tached. Cordially and sincerely yours, By Order of the Chief Executives: B. M. Jewell, Timothy Shea. E. J. Manion, Jas. J. Forrester, L. E. Sheppard, Committee. Washington, D. C., March 3, 1920. Mr. Walker D. Hines, Director General of Railroads, Interstate Commerce Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: We are in receipt of letters , from the President dated February 28 and March 1. respectively, also copy of a letter which he addressed to Mr. T. DeWitt Cuyler, Chairman, Association of Railway Executives dated March 1, all of which have to do with the pending rail- road wage problem. We assume copies of this correspondence has been fur- nished you. We are this day addressing a letter to the President (copy of which we are hereto attaching) in reply thereto advis- ing him that the representatives of the railroad employes have acted upon his letter of February 13 addressed to the Chief Executives of the standard recog- J. W. Kline, W. H. Johnston, M. F. Ryan, Louis Weyand, J. J. Hynes, D. W. Helt, A. E. Barker, Timothy Healy. nized railroad labor organizations, to- gether with your letter addressed to the President dated February 12. In the President's letter to us, dated March 1, he states in part as follows: “I therefore request that your organi- zations select such number of represen- tatives as may seem appropriate to them to conduct the conference and negotia- tion contemplated by Section 301 to the end that such representatives may promptly meet in conference with the representatives selected by the railroad companies in accordance with the re- quest I am making of them and may thus initiate the necessary proceedings." In the President's letter to Mr. T. Do Witt Cuyler dated March 1, among other things he states: “I believe all will agree that the mat- ter calls for the earliest disposition and for the most active and earnest co-opera- tion to avoid any delay whatever in bringing it to a conclusion. Section 301 of the Transportation Act contemplates that the carriers and employes may and ought to select representatives who will in effect constitute a bi-partisan board for the purpose of attempting by confer- ence to agree upon a solution of wage problems subject to other provisions of the law. “In view of the generality of these demands, affecting the railroad employes on all the railroads which have been under Federal control and in view of the manifest desirability and justice of the earliest possible disposition of the de- mands, I request that the railroad com- panies select such number of representa- tives as may seem appropriate to them to conduct the conference and negotiation contemplated by Section 301 to the end that such representatives may promptly meet in conference with representatives selected by the employes in accordance with the request I am making of them and may thus initiate the necessary pro- ceedings." In the President's letter of 'March 1st. addressed to us. he further states: “I shall be obliged if you will advise Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 445 the Director General of Railroads as to the representatives selected as here re- quested. As soon as he receives such ad- vice, and advice as to the representa- tives selected by the railroad companies, he will arrange for all such representa- tives to begin their conferences and at such conferences questions of procedure can be settled and any question that may be raised as to whether the number of representatives of either the employes or carriers is sufficient can also be dealt with." In compliance with the above the fol- lowing have been selected to meet the representatives selected by the railroad companies for the purpose of discussing and arranging necessary procedure: B. M. Jewell, Acting President, Railway Employes* Department, A. P. of L. E. J. Manion, President, Order of Railroad Telegraphers. W. S. Stone, Grand Chief Engineer, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. Timothy Shea, Acting President Brother- hood of Locomotive Firemen and En- ginemen. L E. Sheppard, President, Order of Rail- way Conductors. W. G. Lee, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. 3. E. Heberling, President, Switchmen’s Union of North America. Jas. W. Kline, General President Inter- national Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers. Wm. H. Johnston. International Presi- dent International Association of Ma- chinists. Martin F. Ryan, General President, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America. Louis Weyand, Acting International President International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America. Jas. J. Hynes, International President Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' International Alliance. James P. Noonan, International Presi- dent International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. A E. Barker, Grand President, United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes and Railroad Shop Laborers. Jas. J. Forrester, Grand President, Brotherhood of Railway and Steam- ship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Ex- press and Station Employes. D. W. Helt, President, Brotherhood of Railway Signalmen of America. Timothy Healy, President, International Brotherhood of Stationery Firemen and Oilers. We will appreciate it very much if you will notify the undersigned at Room 608, American Federation of Labor Build- ing, City, time and place proposed meet- ing will be held, giving us the names of those selected by the railroad companies. We are furnishing the President copy of this letter. Respectfully yours. By Order of the Chief Executives: B. M. JEWELL, TIMOTHY SHEA. E. J. MANION, JAS. J. FORRESTER, L. E. SHEPPARD, Committee. Washington, D. C.\ March 3. 1920. Messrs. B. M. Jewell, Timothy Shea, E. J. Manion. L. E. Sheppard, J. J. Forrester, Room 608 A. F. of L. Bldg., Wash- ington, D. C. Dear Sirs: I have your letter of to- day, naming in accordance with the Presi- dent’s request, representatives of the la- bor organizations to meet the represen- tatives of the Railroad Companies with reference to the wage matter. Just at the time I received your letter, Mr. Cuyler spoke to me on the tele- phone. He told me he had arranged for a meeting of the Railroad Companies on Friday of this week for the purpose of taking action in regard to the Presi- dent’s request. I explained to him that I had just re- ceived your letter, designating your rep- resentatives. He asked If I could tell Digitized by Google

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446 The Railroad Telegrapher. how many representatives you had des- ignated and I replied that you had desig- nated seventeen. I shall communicate with you further as soon as 1 get advice of the action of the Railroad Companies. Sincerely yours, (Signed) W alkie D. Hurts. Circular No. 4 SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS IN CONNECTION WITH 1919-1920 WAGE MOVEMENT To Officers and Members of the Seventeen Railroad Labor Organizations represent- ing All Classes of Railroad Employes in the United States. Dear Sirs and Brothers: Following the policy adopted by the Seventeen Standard Recognized Railroad Labor Organizations, whereby fuU and complete In- formation regarding the progress of affairs in connection with the general wage movement, would be issued to our Officers and Members at frequent intervals. Cir cular No. 4 is published at this time and contains a complete transcript of the cor- respondence exchanged between your representatives and the representatives of the Association of Railway Executives and others directly or Indirectly connected with the negotiations conducted by the Bi-Partisan Board. We incorporate in this circular, copy of Special Circular No. 1. issued to the General Chairman in order that our memberships may be informed as to the action contemplated on the railroads NOT represented by the Association of Railway Ex- ecutives. The Bi-Partisan Board has ceased to function and negotiations have been sus- pended by reason of the Employers’ committee declining to continue the confer ences and appeal will now be taken to the Railroad Labor Board. Copies of correspondence exchanged during the sessions of the Bi-Partisan Board is incorporated below and submitted for your information. MEMORANDUM. In compliance with the request of the President as contained in his letter of March 1st that our organizations select such number of representatives as may seem appropriate to them to conduct the conference and negotiation contem- plated by Section 301 to the end that such representatives may promptly meet in conference with the representatives selected by the railroad companies in accordance with request he is making of them and may thus initiate the necessary proceedings, we beg to submit the names of the following representatives as duly authorized to conduct the initial pro- ceedings as contemplated in the Presi- dent’s letter: B. M. Jewell, Acting President, Railway Employes’ Department of the A. F. of L. L. E. Sheppard, President, Order of Railway Conduc- tors. E. Corrigan, Assistant Grand Chief Engineer. Brotherhood of Locomotive Engi- neers. Timothy, Shea, President, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen. W. N. Doak. Vice-President, Brotherhood of Rail- road Trainmen. S. E. Heberling, President, Switchmen’s Union of North America. Wm. H. Johnston, International President, International Association of Machinists. Louis Weyand, Acting International President, Inter national Brotherhood of Boilermak- ers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America. F. C. Bolam, Vice-President, International Brother Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 447 hood of Blacksmiths. Drop Forgers and Helpers. Jno. J. Hynes, International President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' International Alliance. J. P. Noonan, International President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Martin F. Ryan, * General President, Brotherhood Rail- way Carmen of America. E. J. Manion, President; Order of Railroad Teleg- raphers. Jas. J. Forrester. Grand President, Brotherhood of Rail- way A Steamship Clerks. Freight Handlers, Express and Station Em- ployees. A E. Barker, Grand President, United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees and Railway Shop Laborers. D. W. Helt, President, Brotherhood of Railway Signalmen of America. Timothy Healy, President International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen and Oilers. The Director General of Railroads has been advised as to the represen tat hres selected by the employees. Preliminary to a discussion of the ways and means to be adopted by this body for conducting negotiations it is proper that we state that the representatives above enumerated represent all the employees in their respective classes of all railroads in the United States. It is equally proper that the represent- atives of the railroad executives now state whether they are authorized to rep- resent all railroads in the United States, and deal for all classes of employees. The committee representing the em- ployees is authorized to conduct these negotiations to a conclusion, and we re- quest that you advise whether your com- mittee is delegated with like authprity. It has been decided, that in order to expedite matters, it would be desirable to subdivide our committee into three groups ** follows: (A) Brotherhood of Locomotve En- gineers. Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Engfnemen, Order of Railway Conductors, Brotherhood of Railroad Train- men, Switchmen's Union of North America. (B) International Association of Machinists, International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders America, & Helpers of International Brotherhood Of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers' International Al- liance. Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. (C) Order of Railroad Telegraphers, United Brotherhood of Main- tenance of Way Employees and Railroad Shop Laborers, Brotherhood of Railway Signal- men of America. Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Sta- tion Employees. International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen and Oilers. If this suggestion is concurred in by your committee conferences In accord- ance therewith may be arranged at once. Other questions of procedure can be arranged by mutual consent. “Washingtgon, D. C., ‘March 22, 1920. “B. M. Jewell, Chairman, Railroad Em- ployees Conference Committee, “Washington, D. C. “Dear Sir: “This is to advise you that the com- mittee of which the undersigned is Chair- man has received from the Association of Railway Executives authority to rep- resent the following railroads to handle Digitized by Google

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448 The Railroad Telegrapher. to a conclusion under Section 301 of the Transportation Act of 1920, the requests for increases in wage rates pending at end of Federal control: Abilene ft Southern Ry.. Alabama ft Vicksburg Railway Co.. t Ann Arbor Railroad Co., Arizona Eastern Railroad Co.. Atchison, Topeka ft Santa Fe Railway Co.. Atlanta, Birmingham ft Atlantic Rail- way Co., Atlanta ft West Point Railroad Co., Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Co., Baltimore ft Ohio, Chicago Terminal Railroad Co.. Baltimore ft Ohio Railroad Co., Bessemer ft Lake Erie Railroad Co., Boston ft Maine Railroad Co., Buffalo ft Susquehanna Railroad Corpo- ration, Buffalo, Rochester ft Pittsburg Railway Company, Carolina, Clinchfleld ft Ohio Railway, Central of Georgia Railway Co., Central of New England Railway Co., Central Railroad Co. of New Jersey, Central Vermont Railway Co., Chesapeake ft Ohio Railway Co., Chicago & Alton Railroad Co., Chicago ft Eastern Illinois Railroad Co„ Chicago ft Northwestern Railway Co., Chicago, Burlington ft Quincy Railroad Co., Chicago, Great Western Railroad Co., Chicago, Indianapolis ft Louisville Rail- way Co.. Cincinnati, Indianapolis ft Western Rail- way Co., Chicago, Milwaukee ft St. Paul Railway Co., Chicago, Rock Island ft Pacific Railway Co., Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis ft Omaha Railway Co., Chicago, Terre Haute 6 Southeastern Railway Co.. Colorado ft Southern Railway Co., Cumberland ft Pennsylvania Railroad Co., Delaware ft Hudson Co., Delaware, Lackawanna ft Western Rail- road Co., Denver ft Rio Grande Railroad Co., Detroit, Toledo ft I ronton Railroad Ca, Duluth, South Shore ft Atlantic Railway Co., El Paso ft Southwestern System. Erie Railroad Co. (Including Chicago A Erie Railroad and New York, Susque- hanna ft Western R. R.), Florida East Coast Railway Co., Fort Worth ft Denver City Railway Co„ Grand Trunk Railway System — Lines In United States, Great Northern Railway Co., Gulf ft Ship Island Railroad Co., Gulf Coast Lines, Gulf, Mobile ft Northern Railroad Co„ Hocking Valley Railway Co.. Huntington ft Broad Top Mountain Rail- road ft Coal Co.. Illinois Central Railroad Co.; (Including Yazoo ft Mississippi Valley Railroad), International ft Great Northern Railway Co., Kansas City Southern Railway Co., Lehigh Valley Railroad Co., Long Island Railroad Co., Lehigh ft New England Railroad Co., Los Angeles ft Salt Lake Railroad Co.. Louisiana ft Arkansas Railway Co.. Louisville ft Nashville Railroad Co. Maine Central Railroad Co., Midland Valley Railroad Co., Minneapolis 6 St. Louis Railroad Co- Minneapolis, St. Paul ft Sault Ste. Mari* Railway Co., Missouri Kansas ft Texas Railway Ca. Missouri Pacific Railroad Co., Nashville, Chattanooga ft SL Louis Rah- way Co., New Orleans, Great Northern Railroad Co.. New York Central Railroad Co.. Cincinnati Northern, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago A St. Louis, Kanawha ft Michigan. Lake Erie ft Western, Michigan Central, Toledo ft Ohio Central, Pittsburgh ft Lake Erie. Boston ft Albany. Zanesville ft Western, New York, Chicago ft St. Louis Railroad Co., Digitized by Google ^

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 449 New York, New Haven 6 Hartford Rail* road Co., New York, Ontario ft Western Railway Col. Norfolk ft Western Railway Co., Norfolk Southern Railroad Co., Northern Pacific Railway Co.. Northwestern Pacific Railroad Co., Pennsylvania Railroad Co., New York, Philadelphia ft Nor- folk Railway Co., West Jersey ft Seashore, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago ft St Louis, Grand Rapids ft Indiana Railway, Cincinnati, Lebanon ft Northern. Louisville Bridge ft Terminal Railway Co., Pere Marquette Railway Co., Philadelphia ft Reading Railway Co., Richmond, Fredericksburg ft Potomac Railroad Co., Rutland Railroad Co., St. Louis, San Francisco Railway Co., St- Louis, Southwestern Railway Co.. Seaboard Air Line Railway Co., Southern Pacific Company, Southern Pacific Lines in Texas ft Louisiana, Texas ft Pacific Railway Co., Toledo, St. Louis & Western Railroad Co., Union Pacific Railroad Company. Oregon Short Line, Oregon-Washington Railroad ft Navigation Co., Vicksburg. Shreveport ft Pacific Railway Co., Virginian Railway Co., Wabash Railway Co., Washington Southern Railway Co., Western Maryland Railroad Co.. Western Pacific Railroad Co., Western Railway of Alabama, Wheeling ft Lake Erie Railway Co., “Very truly yours, ~ (Signed ) E. T. Whiter, . “Chairman." Washington, D. C., March 22, 1920. WASHINGTON UNION STATION, ROOM 363. Hon. Wm. B. Wilson, Secretary, United States Department of Labor, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Secretary: As result of request by the President, and In keeping with Title 3, Section 301, of the Transportation Act of 1920, a joint conference committee, representing railroad managements and railroad em- ployees. is «now attempting to arrive at an agreement as to Just and reasonable rates of pay for railroad employees. In dealing with a question of this character, the increased cost of living is of necessity an important factor, (and it is desirable that we have the latest and most authoritative data available. This joint conference committee un- derstands that the Department of Labor gathered and compiled cost of living data up to a very recent date, which was sub- mitted to the Board appointed by the President to deal with rates of t>ay for the mining industry. We will desire data on increased cost of living from 1914-1915 to most recent date obtainable. Therefore, the under- signed are directed by the joint confer- ence committee, representing railroad managements and railroad employees, to request that you be so kind as to furnish us with any statistics you may have as to increased cost of living, 1914-1915 up to date. Especially that which we under stand has been compiled and furnished to the present Board appointed to deal with the Miners’ rates of pay, and which has not as yet been published by the United States Department of Labor. Assuring you in advance of our sin- cere appreciation for this courtesy, we are, Yours very truly. E. T. Whiter, Chairman Railway Executives* Confer- ence Committee. B. M. Jewell, Chairman Railway Employees’ Confer- ence Committee. Washington, D. €., Mar. 24, 1920. Mr. E. T. Whiter, Chairman, Railway Executives* Conference Com- mittee, Room 353. Washington Union Sta- tion, Digitized by Google

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450 The Railroad Telegrapher. Washington. D. C. Dear Sir: Title 3, Section 302 of the Transporta- tion Act of 1920, provides that railroad boards of labor adjustment may be es- tablished by agreement between the car- riers and the organizations of railroad employees. • It is quite evident that this provision is made in the interest of industrial peace. During the period of Federal Control, and for some time prior thereto, the standard recognized railroad labor or- ganizations have been adjusting differ- ences that could not be settled after han- dling in compliance with the provisions of the respective agreements, by submis- sion to different forms of Boards created by mutual agreement. By the creation of such Boards of Adjustment, great num- bers of disputes have been disposed of in an orderly manner which otherwise might have caused serious interruption to the operation of the railroads. Notwithstanding the fact that the standard recognized railroad labor organ- izations vigorously protested the enact- ment of the law, these same organiza- tions, upon being advised by the Presi- dent that he had signed the bill, an- nounced that they would co-operate in an endeavor to give the law a fair test We gladly co-operated with the Gov- ernment during Government control, and stand ready now to co-operate with the railroad managements to the full extent of our ability, in order that the public may receive the transportation service so desirable — but the measure of this co-operation and the success resulting therefrom, will depend upon the extent to which the present managements de- sire this eo-operation. The standard recognized railroad labor organizations represent all the em- ployees of their respective classes on all railroads and carriers, subject to the Transportation Act, and must be con- sidered, and are willing to assume their full share of responsibility in matters af- fecting their respective classes of em- ployees. Therefore, we request that the Asso- ciation of Railway Executives delegate your committee with authority to negoti- ate with our committee for the creation of National Railroad Boards of Labor Adjustment. One Board to be created for each group of employees as follows: Group (1): Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, Order of Railway Conductors, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, Switchmen’s Union of North America. Group (2): International Association of Machin- ists, International Brotherhood of Boiler makers. Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America, International Brotherhood of Black smiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers, International Alliance, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America, International Brotherhood of Elec trical Workers. Group (3): Order of Railroad Telegraphers, United Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees, and Railroad Shop Laborers, Brotherhood of Railway Signalmen of America, Brotherhood of Railway and Steamship Clerks. Freight Handlers, Express and Station Employees, International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen and Oilers. There is great need for prompt dispo- sition of this matter, and we cannot too strongly urge that these Adjustment Boards be created as we request, at the earliest possible moment. By Order of the Committee. B. M. Jewell. Chairman Railway Employees' Con ference Committee. Washington, D. C., March 24, 1920. Mr. E. T. Whiter, Chairman, Railway Executives Conference Com- mittee. Room 353 Washington Union 8t* igitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 451 Washington. D. C. Dear Sir: During Government Control of Rail- roads. Generals Orders. Supplements. Addenda, National Agreements and In- terpretations thereof were issued by the United States Railroad Administration, as result of negotiations conducted with the organizations parties to this con- ference. These General Orders, Supplements, Addenda. National Agreements and In- terpretations thereof are continued in ef- fect until September 1, 1920, except as amended by mutual agreement between the organizations and managements of the railroads and carriers covered by the Transportation Act of 1920. In the interest of successful operation, it Is desirable that definite agreements be had prior to September 1,1920, provid- ing for the preservation of the conditions of employment thereafter, and that these agreements be entered into at the earliest possible moment. Therefore, the organizations, parties to this conference, urge that the Association of Railway Executives delegate your com- mittee with authority to enter into an agreement preserving the provisions of such General Orders, Supplements. Ad- denda, National Agreements and Interpre- tations thereof, upon all railroads and carriers coming under the provisions of the Transportation Act of 1920. By Order of the Committee, B. M. Jewell, Chairman Railway Employees* Con- ference Committee. Washington, D. C., March 24. 1920. Mr. E. T. Whiter, Chairman, Railway Executives Conference Com- mittee. Room 363 Washington Union Sta- tion, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In connection with your letter of March 22, 1920, containing a list of railroads your committee is authorized to repre- sent, and suggesting that our committee furnish a list of such additional railroads as it is desired your committee shall be authorized to represent. After careful consideration we sub- mit, that all railroads and carriers which report to the Interstate Commerce Com- mission, come within the provisions of the Transportation Act of 1920, and the organizations, parties to this conference, represent all the employees in their re- spective classes of all railroads and car- rierd in the United States. Therefore, we desire that your com- mittee take necessary steps to promptly secure authority to represent all railroads and carriers coming within the provisions of the Transportation Act of 1920, and furnish us with a list of those who de cline to grant your committee this au- thority. Pending the results of this effort on the part of your committee, we will furnish our several committees with the original list of railroads your committee has au- thority to represent, also copies of the re- quests pending and submitted to this conference, and will direct such commit- tees on railroads and carriers, not in- cluded in this list, to secure conference with and present to the proper officials thereof, these same requests. In no case will any settlement be made by such committees unless the entire requests are granted. In the interval we are agreeable to proceeding with these negotiations, with the understanding that any agreement reached shall be binding upon all parties now represented In the conferences, and those who may later become parties thereto. By Order of the Committee, (Signed) B. M. Jewell. Chairman Railway Employees’ Con- ference Committee. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, Office of the Secretary. Washington March 24, 1920. Joint Conference Committee of Railway Employees and Railway Executives, Room 353, Washington Union Station, Washington, D. C. Dear Sirs: I have your letter of March 22, and Digitized by Google

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452 The Railroad Tbleorapheb. have forwarded It to the Commissioner of Labor Statistics with instructions that the latest figures compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics be sent to the Joint Conference Committee of Railway Em- ployees and Railway Executives. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has just com- pleted a resurvey of cost of living in some thirty cities in the United States. The retail prices obtained in this re- survey have not yet been tabulated and will be considerably delayed because of the smallness of the Bureau's working force, but I am asking that it be com- piled as quickly as possible for the use of your committee. I may add that it will probably be impossible for the Bu- reau of Labor Statistics to continue these periodical resurveys of retail prices and cost of living after July 1, if the appro- priation bill is finally passed by Congress, as reported by the Appropriations Com- mittee of the House. The bill as it now stands reduces the appropriations of the Bureau of Labor Statistics $54,180 below the amount for the fiscal year 1920. This reduction will necessitate reducing the work of the Bureau very materially. Very truly yours, (Signed) Louis F. Post, Acting Secretary. Washington, D. C., March 30. 1920. Mr. B. M. Jewell, Chairman, Railway Employees’ Conference Com- mittee, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Replying to your letter of March 24th, in regard to creation of Boards of Ad- justment as referred to in Title 3. Sec- tion 302 of the Transportation Act of 1920. As requested the matter has been placed before the Association of Railway Exec- utives, and we are Informed that the same will be given consideration and further reply will be made to you as soon as conclusions are reached. Very truly yours, (Signed) E. T. Whites, Chairman MEMORANDUM. Further in connection with the ques- tion of creating National Labor Adjust- ment Boards, and the reply we received from the Chairman of the Railroads’ Com- mittee. In conference, April 1, Mr. Whiter advised that the Association of Railroad Executives were to have a meet ing to discuss this matter within the next two weeks, and that the Chairman of our committee would receive a reply from Mr. Whiter after this meeting Washington, D. C., March 30, 1920 Mr. B. M. Jewell. Chairman, Railway Employees’ Conference Com mittee, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Replying .to your letter of March 24th. requesting the Association of Railway Executives to delegate to this Committee the authority to enter into an agreement preserving the provisions of General Or ders. Addenda, National Agreements and Interpretations thereof. Your request covers a broad range of conditions produced by the actiohs of the Railroad Administration, many of which are outside of the purposes for which this Committee was created. Having suh mitted your original request to the As- sociation of Railway Executives and bar ing been advised that such matters yen’ beyond the scope of the authority of this Committee, we feel that we cannot again with propriety, ask for the authority yon request, nor do we feel that the questions are so directly related to the wage prob- lems pending at the termination of Pad eral Control that this Committee can un dertake to handle such additional prob- lems. Very truly yours, E. T. Whiter. Chairman. Washington, D. C., March 30, 1920. Mr. B. M. Jewell, Chairman, Railway Bfr ployees Conference Committee. Washington. D. C. Dear Sir: Replying to your letter of March 14th asking that our Committee secure w thority to represent all railroads and Digitized by _ \

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Toe Railroad Telegrapher. 463 carriers coining within the provisions ot the Transportation Act of 1920. Authority has been obtained to add all Terminal and Union Depot Companies, a majority of whose stock is owned by the Railroads appearing on the list pre- viously handed you. The question of representing railroads aot shown on the list submitted with let- ter of March 22nd will be taken up with such roads as soon as you furnish us the names thereof. The American Short Line Railroad As- sociation has declined to authorize the Association of Railway Executives to represent the lines included in their As- sociation. We shall endeavor to obtain a list of such short lines and hand to you as soon as received. Very truly yours. m (Signed) E. T. Whiter, Chairman. Washington, D. C., March 30. 1920. Mr. B. M. Jewell, Chairman, Railway Employees Conference Com- mittee, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In conformity with a request made by the President of the United States upon the Association of Railway Executives and the Chief Executives of the various, organizations of employees, this Board, or Joint conference, was convened for the purpose of endeavoring to dispose of the wage requests pending at the end of Federal control by the method provided In Section 301 of the Transportation Act. The first meeting was held on March 10, 1920, at which the Director General addressed the Board and left with us the thought that, owing to the importance of the subject and the delay that had al- ready ensued, the whole matter should be taken up at once and expedited to the greatest possible extent. As some pre- liminary work was necessary, subse- quent conferences were held March 22nd to 25th, inclusive, within which time you submitted your respective propositions. A recess was then taken during which the railroad representatives considered your requests and compiled figures to estimate the Increased yearly costs. A very conservative estimate shows a total of more than one billion dollars. This estimate is based only on the re- quested changes in the rates of pay, and no attempt has been made to estimate the cost of changes in rules which would further materially increase the total. Con- sideration of your requests and the bases upon which they are predicted has con- vinced our conferees that there is no in- termediate ground which could be reached that in Itself would not represent an ag- gregate sum so great as to be beyond the possibility of our reaching a settlement. To study all angles of the subject ex- haustively would require a long time, and notwithstanding any points which might develop in your favor, the railroads could not assume the responsibility of adding such a burden to the costs of transpor- tation, excepting with the full knowledge and consent of the public through its representatives, and we must, therefore, decline to grant your requests, and let the matter be disposed of as provided in the Transportation Act. We feel that it would be an injustice to you and to those you represent to further prolong these conferences, and If you desire to appeal to the Labor Board we invite you to select a committee of your representatives to work with a committee which we may select to prepare data on the various aspects of the subject, so that if we can agree upon such data, even in part, some time at least, will have been saved in presenting the case to the Labor Board. We note that the propositions sub- mitted include several subjects which we understand were disposed of by the United States Railroad Administration prior to the termination of Federal Con- trol, and therefore ought not to be con- sidered as pending. However, in view of our conclusions as to the disposition of the present requests, it appears unneces- sary to enter into a discussion of these features of the situation at this time. Yours very truly, (Signed) E. T. Whiter, Chairman. Washington, D. C., April 1. 1920. Mr. E. T. Whiter. Chairman. Digitized by Google

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454 The Railboad Telegrapher. Railway Executives’ Conference Com- mittee. Room 353 Washington Union Sta- tion, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir : Replying to your letter of March 30th, setting forth the position of the railroads your committee represents, respecting the requests for increases in rates of pay, etc., for railroad employees, which were submitted by the standard recog- nized railroad labor organizations. Your letter of March 30th, to our com- mittee reads in part, as follows: “Consideration of our requests and the basis upon which they are predicted, has convinced our conferees that there is no intermediate ground which could be reached that in itself would not represent an aggregate sum. so great as to be be- yond the possibility of our reaching a settlement * * * “The railroads could not assume the responsibility of adding such a burden to the costs of transportation, excepting with the full knowledge and consent of the public, through its representatives, and we must, therefore, decline to grant your requests, and let the matter be dis- posed of as provided in the Transporta- tion Act.” The attitude of your committee in fail- ing to carry out the wishes of the Presi- dent of the United States comes as a surprise to us. and will result in keen disappointment to our constituents, as well as the general public, both of whom are parties at interest and entitled to more consideration from the Bi-Partisan Board than you have elected to give. We understand from this that your committee has definitely declined to as- sume the responsibility and perform the duty which is so clearly desired in the public interest and which Section 301, as we understand it, contemplates; that of agreeing in conference upon rates of pay for railroad employees which are Just and reasonable. Your statement that no agreement should be reached by the railroads and employees which has not been passed upon by the representatives of the pub- lic, given as the reason for terminating the negotiations. Is not in accord with our understanding of the law. Se^ion 301 clearly intends that the represdhta- tives of the railroads and employee! should, by conference, agree upon Just and reasonable rates of pay, working eon ditions, etc. Section 307, paragraph B as applicable to this Issue provides; “That the Labor Board may upon its own motion within ten days after the de- cision. in accordance with the provisions of Section 301, of any dispute with re- spect to wages or salaries of employees or subordinate officials of carriers, su* pend the operation of such decision if the Labor Board is of the opinion that the decision involves such an increase in wages or salaries as will be likely to necessitate a substantial readjustment of the rates of any carriers. “The Labor Board shall hear any de- cision so suspended and as soon as prac- ticable and with due diligence decide to affirm or modify such suspended deci- sion.” Section 307, paragraph D, reads as fol- lows: (d). All the decisions of the Labor Board in respect to wages or salaries and of the Labor Board or an Adjustment Board in respect to working conditions of employees or subordinate officials of car- riers shall establish rates of wages and salaries and standards of working con- ditions which in the opinion of the board are just and reasonable. In determining the justness and reasonableness of such wages and salaries of working conditions and board shall, so far as applicable, tak* Into consideration among other relevant circumstances: (1) The scales of wages paid for aim liar kinds of work In other industries; (2) The relation between wages and the cost of living; (3) The hazards of the employment; (4) The training and skill required: (5) The degree of responsibility; (6) The character and regularity rf the employment; and (7) Inequalities of incrjs&ses In Google Digitized by

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 455 or of treatment, the result of previous wage orders or adjustments/’ Your committee has declined to com- ply with the ]gain provisions of, the law, and assume the responsibility of rail* road managements with regard thereto, and has not given consideration to the requests of the employees for Just and reasonable rates of pay, working condi- tions, etc., based upon the provisions of Section 307. paragraph (d), which shall be the guide of the Labor Board. There- fore, these same provisions should be the guide of all parties who deal with these questions. Your entire deliberations seem to have been predicated upon the sole basis of the costs without regard to the justness and reasonableness of the requests of railroad employees. Your declination to consider the re- quests of the employees upon their merits does not place us in a position, at this time, to join with you in the ap- pointment of committees to prepare data for presentation to the Labor Board. The decision of your committee forces us to appeal to the Labor Board under the provisions of the Transportation Act, and so notify President Wilson, because of his request for the creation of this Bi- Partisan Board. By Order of the Committee, (Signed) B. M. Jewell, Chairman Railway Employees’ Con- ference Committee. Washington. D. C., April 1, 1920. Mr. E. T. Whiter, Chairman, Railway Executives’ Conference Com- mittee, Room 363 Washington Union Sta- tion, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Your reply of March 30, to our letter of March 24, regarding the preservation of General Orders, Supplements, Amend- ments, Addenda. National Agreements and Interpretations thereof, leaves us no alternative, but that of taking the neces- sary steps to protect the interests of the employees we represent. By Order of the Committee. (Signed) B. M. Jewell, Chairman Railway Employees’ Con ference Committee. Washington, D. C., April 1, 1920. The President, The White House. Dear Mr. President: Further in connection with your let- ter of March 1, 1920. requesting that the standard recognized railroad labor or- ganizations select representatives of the Railway Executives to attempt, by con- ference, to dispose of pending requests of railroad employees. We are attaching copy of letter of March 30th, setting forth the position of the committee representing the Associa- tion of Railway Executives and our reply thereto, dated April 1st. We regret very much to advise you of our failure to obtain any beneficial re- sults from these conferences. Cordially yours, By Order of the Committee, (Signed) B. M. Jewell, Chairman Railway Employees’ Con- ference Committee. Washington, D. C., April 1. 1920. Mr. B. M. Jewell, Chairman, Railway Employees’ Conference Com- mittee, 300 A. F. of L. Building, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Referring to your letter of April 1st in reply to my letter to you of March 30th. One of the paragraphs of your let- ter contains the statement: “Your committee has declined to com- ply with the plain provisions of the law, and assume the responsibility of railroad managements with regard thereto * * V’ In taking the position that it has taken, our committee has been governed by what it believes to be the plain in- tent of the law. While Section 301 of the Transportation Act directs manage- ments and employees to endeavor to set- tle disputes by direct negotiations, the Act contains other sections having a very significant bearing upon the issue be- Digitized by Google

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456 Thk Railroad Telegrapher. tween us as to the meaning and intent of the law In question. Section 304 creates a “Railroad Labor Board" consisting of “three members constituting the labor group.” “three members constituting the management group/’ and “three members constituting the public group.” This Board is author- ized to suspend the operation of any agreement made solely by representa- tives of the managements and employees if such agreement “involves such an in- crease in wages or salaries as will be likely to necessitate a substantial read- justment of the rates of any carrier.” And a further provision, in effect, makes invalid any wage decision by a majority of the Labor Board unless “at least one of the representatives of the public shall concur in such decision.” In view of the plain intent of these provisions of the Transportation Act, our Committee, when it found by a con- servative estimate that your wage re- quests would add over a billion dollars per annum to the present transportation costs, could not escape the conviction that due respect for the spirit of the law de- manded that these requests should go, for consideration and decision to the Labor Board upon which the public will have representation; and which Board la re- quired by paragraph (d) of Section 307 to take into consideration the seven ele- ments which you enumerate. Very truly yours, (Signed) E. T. Whiter, Chairman. CLOSING STATEMENT. It is highly desirable that close co-operation between the seventeen organiza- tions, parties to the present general wage movement, be maintained during the period the movement is in progress. Your Chief Executives are working in complete harmony, any and all report* to the contrary notwithstanding, and we propose to contim^e to do so until our ob- jectives are attained. It is only natural that a certain amount of confusion exists by reason of the change from Federal Control to Private Control, and it is possible this natural con- fusion is augmented by those who seek to establish discord and distrust in our ranks. Remember, we are standing together and let this be your slogan. Yours fraternally, W. S. Stone. Timothy Shea, Grand Chief Engineer, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. L. E. Sheppard, President, Order of Railroad Conductors S. E. Heberling, President Switchmen’s Union of North America Louis Weyand, Acting International President, Interna- tional Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America J. J. Hynes, International President, Amalgamated Sheet Metal Workers’ International Alliance J. P. Noonan, International President, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Assistant President, Brotherhood of Loco- . motive Firemen and Englnemen W. N. Doak, Vice President, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen J. F. Anderson, International Vice President, Intern* tional Association of Machinists J. W. Kline, General President, International Brother- hood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers Martin F. Ryan, General President, Brotherhood Railway Carmen of America E. J. Manion. President Order of Railroad Telegrapher* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 457 F. Grable, per M., Grand President, United Brotherhood of M. of W. Employees and Railroad Shop Laborers Jas. J. Forrester, Grand President, Brotherhood of Rail- way & Steamship Clerks, Freight Handlers, Express and Station Em- ployees A. O. Wharton, President Railway Employees Depart- ment, American Federation of Labor D. W. Helt, President, Brotherhood of Railroad Sig- nalmen of America Timothy Healy, President, International Brotherhood of Stationary Firemen and Oilers B. M. Jewell, Acting President, Railway Employees Department, American Federation of Labor Private Soldiers’ and Sailors’ League The declaration of principles enumerated by the Private Soldiers’ and Sailors' League of the United States of America is recognized as clean cut .and in accordance with the spirit of the times. In order that our members who have had service in “Uncle Sam's” army or navy and are not acquainted with the principles of this League, they are reproduced: National Headquarters of the Private Soldiers’ and Sailors* Legion, 810 F Street, Washington, D. C. (Incorporated March, 1919, under the Act of Congress, for the District of Columbia.) Declaration of Principles. The Private (the word “Private” as used in this document intends to cover those enlisted men in the Army and Navy who are not commissioned officers) Soldiers’ and Sailors' Legion Is an organization of and for the private soldiers, sailors and marines only. The purpose of the legion is to unite all privates of the United States Army and Navy who served in the World War into one fraternal union for the mutual protec- tion of their rights, the advancement of their interests, the promotion of their wel- fare, and the fostering and aiding of cordial, social and fraternal relations among those who served as privates in the United States forces during the World War in the years from 1917 to 1919, inclusive, and to secure forever the blessings of liberty and peace to ourselves and all our fellow citizens of the United States of America. These benefits of organization can only be accomplished by definite practical steps taken by the united action of the great body of the private soldiers and sailors themselves. The successful achievement of the demands of the Private Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Legion will not only be immediately and permanently helpful to those who wore the uniform, but will be of the greatest benefit to the prosperity, security and welfare of all the people of the United States. It was by the laws and action of the United States Government that upon the private soldier, sailor and marine were placed the burdens, hazards and losses of the World War. Only by the laws and action of the United States Government can these burdens be removed and those hazards and losses to some extent be compensated. To this end we demand that the United States Government shall promptly enact legislation to provide employment at once for all demobilized soldiers, sailors and marines who are unable to find employment in private business. The first demand of the demobilized men of the United States service is the opportunity for employ- ment for all. . .. To tide over the change from military to civil life we shall ask Congress to appropriate $500 to be paid to each private upon his discharge from the service. Digitized by AsOOQle

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458 The Railroad Telegrapher. This payment to be made to those who are already discharged upon the passage of the law. Thousands of soldiers were subject to needless hardships and privations by the unjustly heavy fines and penalties imposed on soldiers by the incompetent and unfit officers in courts-martial for insignificant, petty infractions of military regulations. Congress should at once take the necessary action to see that these fines for petty offenses should be promptly repaid to the honorably discharged soldiers, sailors and marines, and all court-martial sentences should be reviewed, that justice may be done. We demand prompt action by Congress to open up for demobilized soldiers, sailors and marines the opportunity to employ their labor on the unused lands and natural resources of our country. And we don't want to be confined to swamp lands, cut-over stump lands, and desert lands, either. We hold that the hundreds of mil- lions of idle acres of good agricultural, mineral and timber lands and vacant city lots are none too good for the use of the soldiers who are conceded to have saved civilization at $30 per month minus large reductions for fines, insurance, etc. We seek no crumbs of private charity; we accept no dole of public alms; we know our rights and we demand them like men. We do not purpose to be used as crowbars to pry some other man or woman out of a job. Nor do we Intend to be recruited into an army of unemployed to be used as a lever to force down the wages of other citizens. Nor do we intend to starve or beg. Nature’s bounty has provided Uncle Sam and all his nephews with ample opportunity for all to work if the Government will only let down the bars of monopoly and privilege. We reaffirm the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States of America and the re-establishment of the rights of free speech, free press and peaceable assemblage guaranteed by that Constitution. And we recognize the duty of the men and women of our times in this Republic to carry on to full com- pletion the work begun by our forefathers by establishing on a sure foundation the last and greatest of the rights of man — economic liberty — without which all the other forms of freedom fail. Labor and the Farmers in Politics Whatever political developments the future may hold for the farmer-labor move- ments with which the air has been filled for the last several months, the initial move toward consolidation of farmer-labor votes in the interest of a new political party has been taken by the Non-partisans of South Dakota. The nominee for United States Senator to succeed Senator Ed. S. Johnson, dem- ocrat, is Tom Ayres, a cattle rancher, formerly a newspaper man, and for years a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, People’s Party and Knights of Labor. The nominee for Governor Is Park P. Bates, a farmer, the candidate of the Non-partisans for Gov- ernor two years ago. Frank Whalen, a railway trainman, was nominated for Con- gress in the second district to succeed Royal C. Johnson; Arthur J. Anderson, a railway engineer was nominated for railway commissioner, and Wm. E. Nielsen, a railway engineer was chosen for Secretary of State. Miss Alice Lorraine Daly was nominated for Superintendent of Public Instruction. O. E. Farnham, of Newell, a farmer and lawyer, was nominated for Congress in the Black Hills district, and E. J. Holter, a farmer, was selected for Congress in the first district. The balance of the ticket is made up of farmers. It is probably the best balanced ticket that has been nominated in the history of the state, and Its prospects of election are good, since the farmers and laborers in South Dakota are In complete accord and working together with a spirit that is seldom witnessed. The old illusion that thero is no community of interest between those who work on the land and those who work in shop, mill and mine is not present in South Dakota. Digitized by Google

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American business concerns are launch ing out in France in great numbers. Protection of women in industry is part of the legislative program of the League of Women Voters. One thousand and sixty-three new mem- bers were initiated into the Order dur- ing the month of March. Support candidates for public office, who are friends of labor and have been in- dorsed by non-partisan political campaign committee. An Employment Bureau has been estab- lished in connection with President E. J. Manionfs office , which is of service to the employer and employe gratis. The tide of emigration from the United States to foreign countries, particularly European countries, is steadily increas- ing, the United States Bureau of Immi- gration reports. The United States supreme court has ruled that resale price fixing is a viola- tion of the Sherman anti-trust law. Un- der this system manufacturers would set the price at which retailers should sell their goods. terred them from entering into an agree- ment to make a uniform charge for handling liberty bond sales. This agree- ment will end competition. The United States supreme court has ruled against the interstate commerce commission on the question of valuation of railroads. The commission has in- sisted that valuation should be based on original cost, while the railroads hold that present valuations should be the guide. While Governor Allen of Kansas is speechifying through the east on his won- derful “can’t-strike” law and his indus- trial court that will enforce same, he makes no mention of a recent action by Kansas miners, who declared in their dis- trict convention that any member would be heavily fined who appealed to this six- teenth-century court In a dispatch from San Francisco it is declared that anti-union employers throughout the west and southwest are abandoning the “open shop” war whoop and now favor the “American plan.” The “free and independent” claim of the so-called “open shoppers” has been so discredited that its advocates find it can no longer conceal low wages, low hours and individual bargaining. The Arizona State federation of labor officials are preparing to make effective the non-partisan political policy of organ- ized labor. The state will be organized, and will include county and district units. Mr. W. L. Bettis, one of our old-time members who did yeoman duty many years for the membership on various rail- roads has been elected president of the War Department Branch of the Federal Employes Union. Brokers are of the class that "don’t believe in unions,” but this has not de- Unable “to make both ends meet” on their present pay, officers are resigning and enlisted men deserting from the army and navy in droves, the senate was told by members of its military committee. One senator stated that he had been in- formed that 200 petty officers quit the navy in one month and that since the armistice 2,358 army officers had resigned because they were unable to live on their pay. Failure to provide adequate wages for teachers has closed 18,279 schools in this country, reports the United States bureau of education. This condition existed on Digitized by Googk

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460 The Railroad Telegrapher. February 13th last, and is based on re- turns from state school officials. In addi- tion 41,900 schools were being taught by teachers characterized as “below stand- ard, but taken on temporarily in the emergency." Greater shortages are shown to exist in southern states. A worthy cause — Send one dollar to J. W. Ezell Box "A"4874, Pittsburgh , Penna,, and you will receive a hand carved nickel point ivory stylus, inlaid with colored pearl , and your initials un dcr transparent celluloid. You ^oiTl in this way assist a Brother to secure funds to apply for pa) don from a life term sen- tence of which he has served fifteen years in prison. Brother Ezell is an old-time member of THv. 93. Trade unionists are confident that the Missouri state supreme court will uphold a decision by the Cole county circuit court that the newly-enacted workmen’s compensation law is not subject to the referendum. It was held that there were not enough petitioners and that some of the petition circulators were guilty of fraud. The evidence shows that almost the entire expense of circulating the pe- titions was met by damage suit lawyers. ployers .employed and the public, iaues these orders after hearings are held by representatives of all parties. “Labor must organize. Every man who earns his living by honest toil should join some union. You can be just as hon eat outside of a union, but you will ac- complish nothing by yourself. If you have more sense or influence you ought to join the union to give your fellowmen the benefit of your talents. If you have less than the average, come in and let the union help you." We cannot lay too much stress upon the difference between the union man and the member of a union. The New York State industrial con mission explodes the fable of high wages in this state. It is shown that average weekly earnings of over 600,000 factory workers, employed In 1,618 estab lishments was $26.52 in January last The United States bureau of labor sta- tistics has reported that the cost of liv- ing in the entire country has increased 82.1 per cent from 1913 to October, 1019. The question now is: How many of these 600,000 New York workers are buy- ing automobiles or luxuries? Incomes of $1,000,000 or more for 1919 were reported by 731 individuals and cor- porations in the Chicago district, officials of the internal revenue department an- nounce. Thirty-one persons in this city were added last year to the ranks of those whose incomes exceed $1,000,000. One corporation paid $6,000,000 as the first installment of $24,000,000 due the government as income tax. Another cor- poration’s quarterly payment amounted to $2,500,000. A minimum weekly wage of $16.50 has been recommended for women employes of hotels, restaurants, clubs, hospitals and apartments in the nation’s capital. These employers are up In arms over the deci- sion. Under the District of Columbia mini- mum wage law for women and minors a commission of three, representing em- The central labor council of Portland. Ore., will oppose Congressman McArthur in the primaries and at the general elec- tion because he favored legislation to stop railroad employes from striking. McAr- thur shows his complete incapacity to grasp the principle Involved in this issue by declaring that the question Is “whether we are to have government of, by and for the people or of, by and for the labor unions." The organized workers will pit reason and logic against the flag wavini; tactics of this individual. Money inflation is mainly responsible for the high cost of living, according to Dr. Jeremiah W. Jenks, of the New York university. “Our leading financiers are recognis- ing that fact," he said. “The federal reserve banks are taking measures to cor rect it by Increasing the rate of redir Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher 461 count and checking credits for specula- tion. We must go through & period of contraction until we get our currency and credit back on a normal basis. "Neither of the politicians* explanation —profiteering and strikes — is the primary cause for high costs.’* Some business men did not allow their patriotism to stop them from charging high prices to Uncle Sam during the war/ according to testimony submitted to the house appropriations committee. 9 Furni- ture and supplies cost excessive prices be- cause they were called for at a time, it was stated, when supplies were scarce. These business men make strenous ob- jection when labor asks for a living wage, but they do not permit patriotism to in- terfere with what they call “the law of supply and demand,” when our country is at war with a powerful opponent. Tucked away in the financial section of a New York newspaper is this informa- tion for business men: “If consumers show by their buying activities that they are willing to accept the present scale of prices, the tendency on the part of the manufacturers to es- tablish still higher levels for the coming season will be more pronounced than it Is now. If, on the other hand, sales at retail are so sharply curtailed during the next few weeks that there can be no question of consumer rebellion against prevailing prices, the manufacturers will be forced to proceed very cautiously and to reduce even necessary increases to the lowest possible point.” The New York Times acknowledges that one clause in the new railroad bill is thor- oughly anti-union, and that the opposition of the Organized workers is justified. In referring to that section which permits 100 workers to act independently of any other group, the editor says: “It defeats the efTort that organization has made to unionize the classes of railway workers who prefer to benefit themselves by pro- motion in the service rather to limit their prospects to the average imposed on the unionized crafts.” The new railroad bill, which will turn the roads back to private owners, is sav- isfactory to financial interest* according to a Washington newspaper, which says: “On the whole the Cummings-Bsch bill is unquestionably favorable to the owners of railroad securities.” . The Blacksmiths Journal tells promi- nent citizens who preach to labor on the cost of strikes to advise their own friends to “cease making millionaires and pau- pers by their profiteering.” “We wonder,” continues this labor Journal, “if they know that wage earners do not want to strike; that they cannot afford to strike. “They cannot afford to strike. But they will strike! Mr. Taft, Mr. Root, we don’t need your advice. We have had too much of it already. Capital’s spokesmen have been shouting that kind of buncombe for years. We do not believe what they say. Their gurgling humor and austere coun- sel Is wasted.” Baron Morris, the former Newfound- land Prime Minister, takes the side of labor in the much debated question whether labor is fit to govern, in an argu- ment precipitated by Winston Churchhili British Secretary of State for War, who answered the question the other day in the negative. Lord Morris, speaking as the guest of the London Commercial Club, said that he had seen in the newspapers the state- ment that labor was not fit to govern and he added: “If it is correct that such a statement was made by any one in authority, no greater aid, in my judgment, could have been given to Bolshevism than to make any such statement. I am quite satisfied that among the masses of this country or indeed in any country, men could be found as well able to govern as in any other class. Some day the labor and in- dustrial classes will find with what little wisdom the world is governed.*1 Digitized by Googk

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The following births have been re- ported since the last issue of The Teleg- rapher: To Bro. and Mrs. J. S. Poulin of Ste. Marie Beauce, Que. To Bro. and Mrs. C. W. Wrenn of Hoff- man, N. C., a girL To Bro. and Mrs. A. J Ranger of Logan. Montana, a boy To Bro. and Mrs. Thos. L. Glaub of Salt Lake City, Utah, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. P. ChambliB of Pee Dee, S. C., a girl. To Bro. and Sister P. G. Matson of Willits, California, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. J. McAlister of London, Ontario, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Ernie Reynolds of Orchard Park, N. Y., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. B. R. Alford of New Butler, Wis., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Prank Cline of Liv- ingston, Montana, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. P. J. Wall of Chicago, 111., a girL To Bro. and Mrs. Ross W. Johnstone of Rockford, Washington, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. P. E. Young of Tex- arkana, Texas, a girL To Bro. and Mrs. W. L. Heaney of Benicia, Cal., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. W. Smathers of Tehama, Cal., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Wm. McCay of Chi- cage, 111., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. M. C. Wilkins of Mar- shall, Texas, twin boys. To Bro. and Mrs. G. C. Reynolds of Chicago, I1L, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. A. Stewart of Springfield, Minn, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. H. C. Young of Bel knap, Ind., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. A. Todd of Lilling- ton, N C., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. F. Rice of Alopaha. Gft., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. K. D. Sells of Acmar, Ala., a boy. To Bro and Mrs. A. F. Schmel* of Sleepy Eye, Minn., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. F. K. Sessions of Amsteid&m, Ga., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. P. S. Sturtridge of Swift Current, Sask, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. G. J. Shoup of Ox ford, Michigan, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. G. P. Hammond of Etowah, Michigan, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. E. Ryland of Karo rar, Iowa, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. O. Twedt of Prior Lake, Minn., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. R. M. Thomas of Bryant, Washington, a boy To Bro. and Mrs. W. J. Parks of Seat- tle, Washington, a girl. To Bro. and Mre. A. N. Hudson of Pol ton, N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. O. L. Chadwick of Cortland, N. Y., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Oscar Mittler of Marthasville, Mo., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. P. Cook of Car* rothers, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. P. B. Morris of Le®' ter, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrp. R. M. Bienert of Nay- lor, Ark., a girL To Bro. and Mrs. Homer Wynn of Pas cola, Mo., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. M. Stevenson of Albia, Iowa, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. O. E. McBride of Albia, Iowa, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. E. W. Wilkerson of Spring Valldy, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. P. M. Neff of Leban on, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. P. Hoffman of Cadillac, Michigan, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. C. C. Brown of Hel- ena, Ky., a boy. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher, To Bro. and Mrs. E. E. Jinks of Ft. Worth, Texas, a girl. To Bra and Mrs. J. T. Ivey of Waco, Texas, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. C. L. Conway of Me* Carys, N. M., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. M Love of Rosa- mond, Cal., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. T. Hain of La Crosse, Kansas, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. L. E. Odell of La- crosse, Kansas, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. C. Crockett of Nashville, Tenn., a boy. The following marriages have been re- ported since the last issue of The Teleg- rapher: At Blue Canon Junction, California, Bro. Chas. Coppin to Sister Anna Jacob- son, both of Div. 53. At Ripon, California, Bro. I. L. Van- Loon of Div. 63 to Mrs. Laura B. McKee. At West Valley, N. Y., Bro. Ed. Fleck- enstein to Sister Jennie Smith, both of Div. 92. At Summit Hill, O., Sister Grace Law- rie of Div. 18 to Mr. R. Lucas. At West Philadelphia, Pa., Bro. Leon Keene, of Div. 17, to Miss Jane Patchell. At Piney Fork, Ohio, Bro. J. B. Rickets, of Div; 19, to Mrs. Lillian White. At DeRidder, Louisiana, Bro. F. A. Moore, of Div. 5, to Miss Hancheny. At Camden, Arkansas, Bro. T. R. Grady, of Div. 27, to Miss Peebles. At Evanston, Wyoming, Bro. Glenn 8. Ridge, of Div. 6, to Miss Nell Peterson. At Tuscarora, N. C., Bro. E. S. Weeks to Sister Daisy Humphrey, both of Div 147. At Cle Elum, Washington, Sister E. Courtney, of Div. 54, to Mr. McDougal. At Tacoma, Washington, Sister G. Wells, of Div. 54, to Mr. Watters. At Seattle, Washington, Sister Mae Baldwin to Bro. L. V. Kallander. both of Div. 54. At Woodbine, Texas, Bro. H. G. Rob- bins, of Div. 22, to Miss Esther V. Nelson. At Goodland, Kansas, Sister Nellie Thomas, of Div. 126, to Mr. Rice. 468 At Etlah, Missouri, Bro. B. R. Ford, of Div. 31, to Miss Berenice Attebery. The Telegrapher extends congratula- tions to the happy couples. The following deaths have been re- ported since the last issue of The Teleg- rapher: Mother of Bro. J. J. Dunn, of Div. 2. Father of Bro. Wm. Lafontalne, of Div 131* Bro. Joseph H Mortimer, of Div. 17, Bro. B. B. Epstein, of Div. 17. 6ro. W. A. Murray, of Div. 1. Bro. Theodore Gaston, of Div. 17. Mother of Bros. R. E. Pepper, H. G. Pepper, and H. C. Pepper, all of Div. 33. Bro. T. S. Kelly, of Div. 42. Bro. A. J. Jones, of Div. 62. Daughter of Bro. J. J. Gregory, of Div. 59. Bro. G. T. King, of Div. 7. Bro. P. J. Quinn, of Div. 30. Wife of Bro. G. F. Richards, of Div. 124. Father of Bro. Geo. Cone, of Div. 76. Father of Bro. Claude O. Nelson, of Div. 126. Bro. Harry N. Harper, of Div. 23. Sister of Bro. W. D. Pond, of Div. 8. Bro. Joshua M. Brown, of Div. 3L Son of Bro. E. L. Lasen, of Div. 70. Wife of Bro. A. J. Karras, of Div. 70. Wife of Bro. J. B. Thomas, of Div. 23. Bro. F. L. Reynolds, of Div. 49. Bro. Edmund G. Benson, of Div. 3. Wife of Bro. A. J. Lutz, of Div. 119. Wife of Bro. J. A. Fonstad, of Div. 119. Father-in-law of Bro. R. Kells, of Div 92. Bro. J. R. McAllister, of Div. 70. Bro. C. A. Clayworth, of Div. 61. Bro. A. Webber, of Div. 26. Bro. M. Mason, of Div. 17. Wife of Bro. A. J. Todd, of Div. 15. Bro. Willis H. Fleming, of Div. 130. Bro. Louis D. Sisco, of Div. 148. Infant son of Bro. George Morris, of Div. 173. Bro. H. E. Brandon, of Div. 19. Wife of Bro. C. C. Johnson, of Div. 23. Bro. Ernest W. Lewis, of Div. 30. Sister of Bro. John Stadler, of Div. 3. Wife of Bro. J. E. Boggs, of Div. 3. Digitized by Google

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464 The Railroad Telegrapher Bto. L. Sutton, of Div. 49. Son of Bro. C. L. Shoemaker, of Div. 71. Bro. H. B. Segur, of Div. 53. Sister N. E. Mclnnery, pf Div. 53. Bro. E. W. Patrick, of Div. 26. Bro. Claude Smith, of Div. 26. Bro. A. W. Long, of Div. 153. Bro. F. O. Buck, of Div. 17. Bro. Charles E. Jones, of Div. 24. Wife of Bro. A. A. Smith, of Div. 7. Father of Bro. H. W. Robinson, of Div. 16. Mother of Sister Sue Sommers and Bro. James Sommers, both of Div. 168. Wife of Bro. E. R. McFarland, of Div. 7. Father and mother of Bro. T. J. Ryan, of Div. 183. Bro. S. B. Mays, of Div. 58. The bereaved .relatives have the sym- pathy of all. WANTED. Present address of Jack P. Herr. Last heard of working somewhere in South- west "If you see this, kindly communi- cate with Anna E. Herr, 16 North Anna Street, Homestead Settlement." Wm. H. Hebe, 1220-122 2 W. Randolph St, Chicago, Illinois. Whereabouts of Freeman Pulliam and Edward L. Thompson. "If you see this, let me hear from you." R. C. Wilson, 1310 Welton St, Denver, Colorado. Wish to trade position with someone on Portland Division S. P. Ry. Have agency and second trick at Estrella, Ari- zona. Tucson Division. "Anyone inter- ested write us for full Information." M. C. and *E. Fulks, Estrella Hill, Arizona. Present address of R. W. Thistlewaite. Last heard of in Denver, Colorado, about two years ago. Worked on S. P. Tucson Division as brakeman in 1917. "Bill, if you see this write me at Noria, California, (Riverside County). H. F. Mingledorf?, Noria, Cal. Whereabouts of H. T. Lowden. Left the service of the Northern Pacific at Blossburg, Montana, July, 1905. "If you see this, write me, as I have somethin! that belongs to you." J. H. Packard, Bayfield, Wis. Bro. C. W. Noel, Edom, California, wishes to trade position. Seniority dat- ing June 30th, 1916, pays 66% per hoar, first trick and agency with $2400 station Modem living rooms, handles express and U. S. Post Office which average about $15.00 per month. B. T. Nickel, Div. Cor., Sacramento Dir Wanted — Whereabouts of A. Z. Roee Last heard of at Keddie, California. Any information will be greatly appreciated by his sister. Miss M. Robb, 72 Wayne avenue. Suffera, N. Y. Whereabouts of Claude Pace. Former ly operator for the Western Union at Kansas City, Mo. Last heard of enroot* from oversea service, New York to Kan- sas City to return to work for Western Union. O. R. Rhtnbl Glendive. Montana Whereabouts of C. S. Crouch. His father, B. E. Crouqh, Molse, Idaho, to very anxious to hear from him. B. H. Ricsabi*. LOST OR STOLEN. Card No. 16672, Cert 1960. Dir. it. tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 17779, Cert. 2442, Dir. 69. far term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 28831, Cert 336, Dir ft tar term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 26564. Cert 1882, Dir. «t tar term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 11710, Cert. 2095, Dir. 10. tar term ending Jane 30, 1920 Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 465 Card No. 32626, Cert 270, Diy. 166, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 32962, Cert 1807. Dir. 69, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 26813, Cert. 909. Dir. 44. for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 16083, Cert* 110, Div. 34, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 80326, Cert. 1846, Div. 17. for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 13079, Cert 1244, Div. 16, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 31338, Cert 2182, Div. 68, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 12002, Cert 4826, Div. 7, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 14714, Cert. 200, Div. 60, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 30803, Cert. 741, Div. 22. for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 2366, Cert. 66, Div. 126, for year 1920. Card No. 22156, Cert, 889, Div. 88, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 27019, Cert. 2976. Div. 126, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 26402, Cert. 2418, Div. 130, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 3070, Cert. 247, Div. 22. for year 1920. Card No. 18719, Cert 1266, Div. 17, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 31337, Cert. 2146, Div. 68, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 39602, Cert 2849, Div. 17, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 3360, Cert 90, Div. 137, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 6606, Cert. 91, Div. 137, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 28832, Cert 406, Div. 62, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 20428, Cert 2063, Div. 23. for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 21022, Cert. 44, Div. 174, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 38600, Cert. 1463, Div. 8, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 35305, Cert. 213, Div. 49, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 20677, Cert. 1286, Div. 63, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 6078, Cert 704, Div. 43, for year 1920. Card No. 45366, Cert. 1346, Div. 16. tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 13874, Cert. 3226, Div. 126. for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 21424, Cert. 170, Div. 27, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 21296, Cert 8787, Div. 61, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 31648, Cert 194, Div. 166, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 43714, Cert. 772, Div. 6. for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 44823, Cert. 476, Div. 44, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 28522, Cert. 1047, Div. 31, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 43321, Cert 3793, Div. 61, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 4910, Cert 797, Div. 23, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 33712, Cert. 2639, Div. 42, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 27666, Cert. 1757, Div. 36, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 4496, Cert. 1385, Div. 53, for year 1920. Card No. 26310, Cert. 546, Div. 130, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 48678, Cert 411, Div. 46, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 41332, Cert. 699, Div. 29, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 32983, Cert. 2794, Div. 69, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 31226, Cert 301, Div. 68, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 37026, Cert. 3698, Div. 23, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 13193, Cert 661, Div. 6, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 46470, Cert 1034, Div. 23, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 2630, Cert. 1672, Div. 36, for year 1920. Annual card No. 1264, Cert. 1252, Div. 33, for year 1920. Card No. 46353, Cert. 86, Div. 125, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 27765, Cert. 3202, Div. 61, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 5542, Cert. 2680, Div. 76, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 48360, Cert 185, Div. 163 for term ending June 30, 1920. Digitized by Google

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p VOTE WITH YOUR DOLLAR8. (By Kate E. Carr, President) Despite all efforts to bring the H. C. L. to its death via the slow process of starva- tion, that infant is apparently taking to the steady development of childhood in a perfectly normal manner. Meanwhile its foster parents, the consumers, are be- coming thoroughly alarmed at the incor- rigible characteristics of their offspring. They have voted in an effort to legislate against the evil mind of the youth with- out having accomplished any noteworthy results. 41 What shall they do now*4? Double their fighting strength by voting with their dollars as well as with their ballots. Rightly, do we consider voting at the polls as one of the inost important acts of citizenship. But there is a more im- portant form of voting which we almost universally ignore. Every time we buy anything over the counter we are voting. Every dollar is a bal- lot. The person who buys is the per- son who determines not only what shall bfe produced, but how it shall be produced. If we buy pineapples instead of beef and potatoes, and paper shoes with French heels instead of the more durable and sensible article, then the former will be produced and the latter commodities will slowly disappear from the market. At the same time if we purchase articles bearing the label of the open shop and child labor — rest assured that we can fight for sanitary work shops, child la- bor laws, and shorter hours, in vain. If we spend our money for cheap amuse- ments instead of education, then dance halls, pool rooms, and cheap picture pal- aces will be built to supply the demand; while publishers of books ,will go out of business, and our libraries, schools and colleges will become conspicuous by their decreasing number and quality. If we put our savings into an automobile in- stead of a suitable house then automo- biles will be manufactured, garages will usurp apartment houses, and the general housing question will become more acute. The truth is that manufacturers pro- duce for the market, and the customer Is that market. If he is willing to pay to r a thing, no matter how foolish it may be. or how dear the consequences may be- come, some producer will make it for him. If he consciously or unconsciously refuses to buy articles that will be bene- ficial to him or his country, then the producer of that article must curtail his business. So every time we buy, we vote. The question is, “Do w© vote right?" It would be ridiculous if voters were to say, “It doesn'et matter what candi- dates or measures I vote for so Ions as I vote. It is the fact of voting that really counts.” Is it any less ridiculous to say. “It doesn't make any difference what 1 buy, so long as I buy something and thus keep money in circulation.*' Merely spending dollars is not enough; the im- portant question is, “How were they spent”? Did we vote right or wrong with them? It does make a difference whether our country has men at work producing such articles as costly foods, flimsy finery, and expensive automobiles or helping produce such things as shoes, wheat, and ma- chinery. He who spends his earnings on durable rather than costly foods and clothing, does well. But he who not only spends for substance rather than style, but very carefully segregates those arti- cles and brands from his shopping list Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 467 which will not create a market for union made goods, for commodities made under sane and sanitary working conditions — does better. He will be helping to dethrone the H. C. of L. by demanding and thus creating a market for the necessities of life, in- stead of the luxuries. The rule of the hour would then be reversed, essential things would soon be produced in abund- ance, while luxuries would become shop worn. Since supply and demand are the two controlling factors in price mak- ing, we might then expect to visualize a drop in the prices of those commodities necessary to promote general good liv- ing conditions. And if the consumers became interested in how their pur- chases were made, and voted accordingly, a drop in prices would appear on the markets, a greater variety of union made goods, and less warfare would be directed against the maintenance of decent work- ing environment. “But when will all this commence?" When you, the general consuming pub- lic, and I vote intelligently with our dol- lars. We are all voters — those under twenty-one as well as those over that age, and we vote not once or twice a year, but every day. Daily with our dollars we vote for or against a sane industrial sit- uation. How are you voting? For what do you vote? Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Decisive Test. Some people say life downs them every time, It’s all against them, from green youth to prime. Knocking and beating at their cherished plan. But rough days make the mettle of a man, Sflr the red blood within him to its best. And prove him forthright if he stands the test Rough days, with tempests roaring at one’s soul. Clouding the sight and hiding every goal We aim for with our hopes and with our dreams, But through them still a light of laughter gleams A little grace of beauty that shall keep Our ships of fancy from the wreck-strewn deep. And how the rough days tingle in one's • being With clean, clear tang, with gift of rarer seeing. Of keener feeling, nobler will to try. And stronger purpose to put shadows by, Take up the burden, and with quickening tread Look t’ward the stars and bravely plunge ahead. Full many a gem of purest ray serene. The dark, unfathomed caves of ocean bear ; Full many a flower is born to blush unseen. And waste its sweetness on the desert air. Knocking. Put the hammer in the locker; Hide the sounding board likewise ; Anyone can be a knocker; Anyone can criticise. A Pat on the Back. A pat on the back is a wonderful thing. It gives a man courage to whistle and Bing ; When hope is departing, the outlook is grim. A pat on the back then says volumes to him. It whispers: Keep at It! You’re doing all right; Just dig in your toes apd get busy and fight. There’s one man behind you— go to it, old man ; One pal who is sure that you can — that you can. A pat on the back from a stranger or friend. When your jaw starts to sag and your knees start to bend. Will bring you right up with new courage and grit. And you'll keep in the flgbt when you were going to quit. You’ll feel it, you’ll hear it — yes, actually hear It — For hours saying "Dig tn, old fellow. Don't fear it; That isn’t as hard as it looks. Be a man: There’s a fellow back there who believw that you can." Just a pat on the back. And for days and for days, No matter how far you may roam. H still stays By your side, and no matter how hard be your fight, It’s whispering always, “You’ll come out all right. There’s a fellow back there who’s believing in you. Expecting each minute to see you come through With your colors still flying and leading your clan!" And the first thing you know you are say- ing "I can." Cultivate a manner winning Though it hurts your face to smtle And seems awkward in beginning. Be a booster for a while. Let the blacksmith do the pounding ; That’s the way he draws his pay ; You don’t get a cent for hounding Saint and sinner night and day. Just a solid satisfaction, Drop a kind word in the slot. And I'll warrant you'll get action. For your effort on the spot. S. J. Craig. Cert. 1017. Div. 70. To the wide wide world, we have sung the phrase, 8toPj Listen and Look both t cays. But he raced his car, to beat the train Over the crossing; he thought he was gams; 80 now on a stone midst the vines and flow- ers. His family had scribed. "Here’s that fool of ours." Cbst. 1881 Come on. boys ; add more veraee to It. Digitized by Google

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Took Him Literally. Ren peck — That woman is unspeakable. Henpeck — Then she’s just the woman for me. Old Practice. . “Do you believe doctors have a right to kill where they can’t cure?” “Haven't they always been doing it?” Its Sort. “Dont you think his argument was rather fatuous?” "On the contrary. I think it was rather thin.” The Old Adage. “What do you think of Gen. Wood’s chances for election?” “Well, if there is anything in a name, he ought to make good presidential tim- her.” Its Defect He — How can the critics cal! that play true to nature? 8he — Why not? He — The leading character is a con tented wife. — Baltimore American. Helpful Hint. Borem — Now, what would you do if you were in my shoes, Miss Cutting? Miss Cutting — I’d point the toes to- ward the front door and give them a start. — London Tit-Bits. A Popular Make. “The officer says you used bad lan- guage.” “When he stopt me I was in a tan trum.” “Never mind the make of the car." Just Good Enough for the Editors. A good old scout living north of town came In Saturday and handed us a dol- lar for his subscription. “Take it,” he said, “I can’t buy anything with it any more.” — Biloam Springs Herald. All Over. Hearing a crash of glassware one morning, Mrs. Blank called to her maid in the adjoining room, “Norah, what on earth are you doing?” “I’m doin’ nothin’, mum,” replied Norah; “it's done.”— London Opinion. When the Banker Trembled. New Reporter — What was the worst financial panic you ever went through. Mr. Moneybags? Mr. Moneybags — Let me see. Coming home bne night in the street car some- body dropped a nickel and seven women claimed it. — Houston Post. Merely a Reminder. “Five years ago you promised to buy me a car,” said Mrs. Gadspur. “So I did, my dear,” replied Mr. Gad- spur, as he flicked the ashes from a 25 cent cigar. “And I intend — ahem — to keep my promise.” “I don’t wish to hurry you. but don’t wait until the only vehicle I can ride in is a wheel chair.” — Birmingham Age- Herald. Mutual Critics. “Do you know what the hanging com- mittee have done?” said the first artist. “They’ve absolutely ruined my picture by hanging it next to the worst daub in the exhibition.” “I’ve the same complaint,” said the second artist. “I looked *in yesterday and found mine banging beside a fright- ful thing.” “How do you do, fellows?” said artist No. 3, joining them. “I see they've hung your pictures side by side this year”— Chicago News. Digitized by Google

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470 Thk Railroad Telegrapher. What Could She Say? "What!” cried the careful housewife. “You charge me a shilling a pound for these apples?” “Yes, ma'am,” answered the polite grocer, “that is the very lowest price we can sell them for." “How Is it that I can get them from Todd's for eightpence, then?" “I cannot say, madam. Perhaps Mr. Todd has taken a fancy to you. He is a widower and you are beautiful. Unfortu- nately I — Yes'm, 2 pounds? Certainly.” — Blighty . A Telephone Tale. Lady Limerick, whose work as a voi lintary organizer of free buffets for sol- diers and sailors is so widely known, tells tills story about a young girl war- worker from I he country: What mystified her most, says Lady Limerick, was our telephone, with which instrument she had had no previous ac- quaintance. However, after making care- ful observations, she decided that she knew what to do, and when the next ring came she was ready to answer it. “Hallo!” came from the receiver. “Hallo!” answered the girl. “Who is it speaking?” asked the voice at the other end. “How should I know?” answered the girl sharply. “I can’t see you.” — Pear- son's Weekly. What She Needed. The literary society was meeting in Odd Fellows Hall. The Rev. Josiah Dod- son presided. James Boliver McHenry, the noted orator from the adjoining county, was speaking on “The Peace Ta- ble,” and the audience was rapt in re- spectful attention. “And that was what they conceded,” he concluded. “I ask you, fellow-citi- zens, what does this nation need? What is her necessity, as she leaves the far western shore and steps proudly across the Pacific and in the eyes of the world lays the hand of democracy upon the brow of the Orient? What, I repeat, doe* she need?” “Rubber boots?” hiccoughed the town » souse. — Ban Francisco Chronicle . Hi* Prior Right. A Major in a stevedore regiment em- ployed one of his men to take care of his horses and do little chores around the yard. One day Sam came into the Major’s .office and he was some agitated man. After, he had saluted, he ex- claimed: “Major, I want to be relieved from this hyar Job, right now!” The Major asked him why he didn't want the job any more. “Major, that thar job is good enuff, but I just can’t seem to get along with yo’ all’s wife. Seems every time I goes down to that th&r house she puts me to doin' all kinds of chambermaid wort, and a naggin’ at me all a ther time, too.” Then it was the Major’s turn. “Sam, I’ve been living with that woman tor thirty-odd years now, and if there is go- ing to be anyone relieved, it's going to be me.” — William Rea Black. U. S. A.. in Judge . Don’t Do It. There is an elevator boy in a New York office building who is among a large number of public servants who re sent needless questions. One day there entered his car a rather fussy old lady, and garrulous as well. “Don’t you ever feel sick going up and down in this elevator all day?” she asked. “Yes, ma’am,” said the boy. “Is it the motion going down?** “No. ma’am.” “The motion going up?” “No, ma’am.” “Is it the stopping that does it?” “No, ma’am.” "Then what is it?” “Answering questions, ma’am’— Everybody's . Digitized by L-ooQle

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Labor and farmers have united and started the greatest political campaign ever waged by an organized body to defeat their common enemies and elect friends from the office of president down. We must forget old line politics and stand together, voting for the MAN" regardless of his political affiliations . AN ODE TO THE LOYAL EMPLOYE! Oh! Mr. Loyal Employe, We sure admire ybur nerve; Of this you have a plenty, *Tls easy to observer You Beem to think us Union Men Are just a bunch of crooks, Ready to- do the railroads — No matter how it looks. We made them change the working hours From twenty-four to nine, We and the crooked Congressmen Connived and made it fine. That we would only have to work. Nine out of twenty-four, No reason, only we would like To be with our families more. And have some time to eat and sleep And some for recreation, So we could work nine faithful 4tours And save investigation. As to why we fell asleep And let the flyer go by. Overlooked a thirty-one order And caused a score to die. And, of course, we didn't think That other folks should work — We thought that we should do it all And not one duty shirk. From mowing lawns to bedding cars. For the good old public's stock. To ask us now to do such things Would cause our death from shock. My dear old boy, we sure enjoy Good laughs at your expense; Your line is old, your pride is sold. You sure have poor defense. You are dead. I know, from head to toe, You sure have been neglected — Just get a card and then, old pard. You will be resurrected. M. A. Williams. Cert 3390, Div. 23. EX-80LDIER8 ATTENTION! Every American, and especially every ex-service man, should peruse these platforms carefully, for everyone should be Informed as to the aims and intentions of two such great organiza- tions, one of which — the Legion— claim a million members, while the other has a membership of considerably over half a million. A brief outline of the history of the veterans, will not be amiss, for the rea- son that this body of patriots have not received the space in the press of the country, as has the Legion ; this of course, is easily accounted for from a reference to the platform of the veter- ans, as it is clearly obvious, that it is just such declarations of democracy, that the paid polluters of our plutocratic press are want to suppress. The World War Veterans' Association was organized on the battle-fields of France nine days after the signing of the Armistice; and one of the main fas Digitized by Google

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472 The Railroad Telegrapher. ture8 of the organization, la that no former officer ia eligible for member- ship; this eliminate# to a great extent, of the organization becoming dominated by the aristocracy; and makes it an en- tirely enlisted men's organization. The veterans stand for free speech, free press and free assemblage, and the slogan is “the enforcement of the const!* tatlon as it is written," they believe in righting wrongs with the ballot, and not by violence. A reference to the veterans’ platform discloses the fact that they are man- fully tackling the solution of the prob- lems of re-construction, and are not bothering with any unconsequential mat- ters, such as harassing those who differ politically from them, or who happen to have a foreign sound to their names. The veterans consider the problems confronting the country far too import- ant, to be wasting time in such idle pursuits as “slacker hunts," etc. Knowing that powerful interests are busy spending millions to fasten upon the country the same militarism to end which they fought and defeated Ger- many, the veterans have set themselves the task of saving their own country from the Junkers, who like their Hun brethern, would destroy our liberities in the interest of profit. After going to war and winning the war with the understanding that it was to be a “war to end war,” and after bringing the war to a successful conclu- sion, the veterans insist that they be not cheated of the fruits of their sac- rifices, they are opposed to compulsory military training or service under what- ever camouflage it may go under, and they demand that the power to make war be taken from Congress and placed in the hands of the people, where it belongs, to be exercised by a referen- dum vote, except in case of invasion of our country. Believing that violence generates violence, and that repression begets tyranny, they are opposed to mobs re- gardless of the composition of them, and are as much against violations of the rights of citizens by the represents r tives of the several governmental do partments as by any other mob. They are against the mob spirit wherever it shows itself, and regardless of the rai- ment it is clothed, in, and they stand at all times for the decision of the bal- lot, the veterans still adhere to the old cently done through the pretense and resent the endeavors of tin-horn politi- cians and plutocrats, to use returned service men for making a door mat of the constitution, this resentment ex- plains the slogan, “the enforcement of the constitution as it is written." The veterans believe that what con- stituted Czariem in Russia and Kaiser ism in Germany, does not constitute patroitism in our country, even tho it be carried on in the interest of prof- iteers. Concisely, the world war veterans stand for law and order for the poor as well as the rich, they demand the de- mocracy that they fought for; and insist on an end of war and intrigue; and like Sir Ian Hamilton of the British Army, they say, “abolish conscription and break the teeth of war.” By Cert 270. Div. Ill THWART LEGISLATION INIMICAL TO LABOR. That organized labor is passing through a most critical stage is putting it mildly and disclaiming any radical or pessimistic views, there is abundant evidence in the signs of the times that quick and concerted action on the part of labor is needed to undo the threat- ened dangers which seem to confront us. Never in the history of America has such vicious legislation been intro duced in Congress and the Senate to enhance the direct Interests of Capital and to enslave labor as has been re- cently done through the pretence and guise of exterminating the red evil via I. W. W. and the Bolshevikl, to which we have no leanings or sympathy, bit the measures introduced and which htv» come dangerously near passing are with Digitized by Google

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The .Railroad Telegrapher. 478 oat doubt aimed directly at the heart of American labor, and if successful, would so completely harness labor that the boasted citizenship of which we hare been so proud would be only a vague dream of the past and a strict violation of that principle which many ot our members have fought and bled to protect in the defense of our coun- try; furthermore, it would be in direct violation of that principle against which our noble forefathers first hoisted the standard of rebellion, the restriction of liberty. These measures as were well known are the Graham and Sterling measures and last but not least the in- iquitous Cummins Bill which would be very disastrous to labor, and a two- edged sword in the heart of it, and hay- ing failed in its insatiable greed to force the anti-strike measure upon us, it now seeks to burden us with compulsory ar- bitration and endless injunctions and it is plainly evident that these men who are so earnestly pushing these measures are but the hirelings of the giants of finance to further their own interests and destroy the last vestige of American liberty as far as labor is concerned. Of this bill says Warren S. Stone, president of the Plumb Plan League, that it would fasten upon the people all the accumulated inflation of railroad stock values and make interest at 6 per cent on such inflation a fixed charge for all time on the billions of watered stock which have been plowed into rail- road stocks in years past, thereby guar- anteeing to the holders of such stock a permanent dividend. Aside from the foregoing, the H. C. L. is unquestionably the mightiest factor with which we have to contend at pres- ent, and while this has in the past been brought about by war conditions and is now being propagated and continued by profiteering of the worst class ever known and seems to be getting ever worse and worse without limit, and to quote Senator Capper of Kansas in his speech in the U. S. Senate of January 24, “Profiteering is a greater menace in the United States today than all the activities of the so-called revolutionary reds," and urges that jail sentences be given persons found guilty of charging excessive prices for goods which people require. Twenty years ago I could, as a telegrapher, support myself and small family and save half my wages on a salary of $80 per, and now I can scarcely meet my bills with a salary of more than twice that amount. A newsboy a short time ago in Phila- delphia was selling papers at 15 cents each and, asked why he did it, replied because he could get it, and evidently the profiteers work along the same lines. To offset the H. C. L. there is now a move on foot to establish a chain of railway employes' stores from coafct to coast managed by men of brains and backed by a subscribed capital of mil- lions of money and the plan is to buy direct from the producer and sell direct to the railway employes who own shares in the concern, and since it is stated on government authority that the pro- ducer only gets 28 cents on the dollar of what the consumer pays, who gets the other 72 per cent? In view of the vicious attacks now being made on labor, there never was a time when the full and complete organization of railway em- ployes was more essential or more need- ed than right now. The recent expulsion of the five so- cialist members from the New York As- sembly is another evidence of the fierce- ness of the teeth of the capitalistic ti- ger, and the eviction of these members from their seats in that assembly is nothing less than a travesty on Justice, based purely on political prejudice be- cause their political faith did not coin- cide with autocracy and capitalistic principles, and to quote Hiram Johnson, that broad-minded patriotic American Senator from California, "If these five socialist members can be expelled from the New York Asembly simply for po- litical reasons, then republicans can be ejected from the legislature of Missis- sippi, or democrats from the assembly of Pennsylvania." There is now a new publication at Digitized by Google

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474 The Railroad Telegrapher. Washington, D. C., which seems pleased to accept the name of “Labor/' backed by powerful and united labor strength which is published weekly and is a fear- less advocate of the rights of unionism, and, judging from its appearance, we would highly commend it to every car- rier of a union card. Don’t fail to get it. The subscription price is only $1 a year. The accomplishments of organized labor, when properly considered, have been little less than marvelous, and while it is very true that in some cases we have had our best interests suffer on account of inefficient leadership, this should prompt us to select the very best men we have as our leaders, lest we be damned by the very gods we have Invoked to promote our Interests and guide us. The wise take counsel in adversity, only the stupid re-enact a tragedy. Not the least among the ac- complishments of unionism is the en- actment of the workmen’s compensa- tion act which is now in effect in all except six of the Southern states and rapid strides are being made to estab- lish it there. It is inconceivable to think what the conditions of telegra- phers would have been today had it not been for organization and only those of us who worked at the game during pre-organization days for $40 per and sixteen hours a day can truly appre- ciate the transition to an eight-hour day and a fourfold increase in wages. Keep organized. Keep up to date. Use the Influence of moral suasion on the “non .” E. T. Mickel, Cert. 1215. “PAGE MR. POLITICS.” Our Journal has been the most read- able magazine on my list While we are still blessed with the “Fraternal” column and while “One touch o’ nature makes the whole world kin,” we have been “touched” so often and repeatedly by the men we have elected to represent us at Washing- ton, that the Journal has at last stepped out of the fog and with the rest of or- ganized labor magazines and papers, came out strong for politics. Therefore, it is to our own best in- terests to help this movement grow, give the space formerly used by division local happenings, to the main topio — politics. Labor, with its millions of votes can and must elect those men best fitted to rep- resent them — laboring men. Let us work politics to the limit, work it overtime, to have a House and Senate favorable and fair to labor; and don’t stop there; see that your vote is cast for the right man in your District, County and Town. If this movement by organized labor is car- ried out, as it must be carried out, such men as “Blanton” of Texas will be given a chance to do clear and clean thinking back in the Lone Star State; such men as Sherman, Cummins and McCumber will not for long wear calouses in the Senate seats at Washington ; work tooth and nail against labor for the. benefit of them- selves and capital. Pick your man in your Town, County, District and State; if he is fair to labor, give him your sup port at the polls, make certain that your brother workers are enlightened as to his qualifications; if he is for capital, then move everything to defeat him. Let’s get going on politics, it’s possible; be possi- blists. Cert. 1424, Div. 119. VOTE IN LABOR’S INTERESTS. Can American labor elect a Labor gov- ernment without a Labor Party? This is one of the big questions in the minds of many today. The Americas Federation of Labor’s avowed purpose of entering politics with the slogan “Reward Your Friehds and Pnnish Your Enemies" has no doubt the very purpose of endeav- oring to elect a labor government regard- less of politcal name. Some are opposed to the Federation plan for a non-partisan campaign account of loss of confidence in so-called “labor candidates” — but from past history it seems to be the best and most logical solution in my mind. However, I as only a small agent operator at a small sta- tion. Giving the opposition full credit Nr Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 475 their views we cannot, however, but ex- pact "Gompers’ ” plan to have a far- reaching effect upon the coming elections. I am honest In my opinion that labor will dominate one or maybe both of the national conventions this year — or they will form a third party — anyway we look at it, it is a serious proposition for both the old parties, for it is known by them that if the American Federation of La- bor's four million or more votes can be swung solid, that they will most assuredly control and carry ap elections! They have their chance to name the next pres- ident and elect the members of our next Congress — which we as union men are very badly in need of at the present time. It seems certain to make our office seeking citizens, campaign managers, etc., to give to us some kind of consideration of our long delayed claims. In the past few weeks we have seen those men who have been elected to rep- resent the people, go wild — refuse to listen to reason and go for own personal reasons. We as laborers have been ridi- culed, our claims have been misinter- preted, and some Congressmen have sug- gested deportation, gallows and prisons for us. And why should we not now, as the reconstruction program of the A. F. L. reads, “apply its long and well estab- lished non-partisan policy. Today some of those who oppose and tear the politcal power of labor are at work. Their great object is to divide our vote so we will not have the strength to elect friends, and they will elect those who are reactionary or open enemies of labor. I believe we should enter the field in a non-partisan way, which method was used in the State of North Dakota lately and they were successful. If we do not hold solidly to our non- partisan policy as announced, I am afraid we will be unsuccessful in politics. We oan not afford to let anything divide us now in this present election year. We are not bound to any politcal power or party. We do, however, feel bound to men who have principle — principles of equal free dom and justice to all. It is up to us who have fared so badly n the past few weeks at the hands of Congress to unite in one strong effort and defeat those who seek public office, who are enemies of ours and friends of those who will choke us and throttle the efforts of unionism. In our present Congress and in the different states we have men who have proven their worth; they have been friends of organized labor and we should remember these and see that they are re-elected. We must enter politics as non-partisan within the next few weeks for in many states there will be held primaries and elections. We are together only in that respect — for among us you will find Jew and Gentile, Protestants, Catholics, Dem- ocrats and Republicans, Masons, Knights of Columbus, Odd Fellows and others — and with all these we are unconcerned. What we want is a square deal, and to the men who give us a square deal to them are we going to be loyal. Loyal to the party whose platform is the most ac- ceptable to our plans. Labor does not desire to put up a party as a rival of the already established par- ties. Yet as "Labor," our Plumb Plan journal, puts it: "Labor intends to compel the politi- cians and the press to choose between the people and privilege. Labor will take a leaf from the book of special privilege. It will refuse to wear the party collar. It will be Republican in those Btates where the Republicans are worthy of Abraham Lincoln. It will be Democratic in those states where Democrats believe in and practice the doctrines .of Thomas Jeffer- son. Now we men in the telegraph world should be busy. We meet the public face to face daily — and we should never lose the opportunity to speak a word in favor of our plans; read and be able to talk interestingly, use your influence and when we clear up after the November election let's have a labor government — a government who will not force labor to Digitized by Google

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476 The Kailboau Telegraph** bow to the capitalist — through a law that will be dead on one issue and alive for another. Vote for men who will have a heart. Cebt. 229, Div. 57. VOTE FOR THE GOOD OF THE CAUSE. Papa Money Trust has his beloved playthings once more in loving embrace, and with the willing aid of his little Congress will proceed to graft the living bough onto the dead, causing profits to grow where none grew before. To this end it has been decided that labor unions must go. Congress has 'labored long and earnestly, sweating much blood, and be- hold! the Incompatible elements now dwell together in harmony, oil and water mingle and flow on as one, liberty and serfdom are joined together in bold wed- lock, and our Constitution, principles, and traditions, and the old English com- mon law of the Sixteenth Century are bidding for fame as the modern Siamese twins. Ridiculed and scorned, Indeed, are we; we will continue so to be until we learn to do more than hope. In the city of Washington are hundreds of press agents, hired by the men who have proclaimed themselves our masters, to deal to the inspired press, great quantities of lies and sophistry. Appealing to the prejudice of the farmer and a mythical public they have pilloried us on public opinion until we are forced to abandon our identity as union laborers and move together as clansmen. So as clansmen let us move to checkmate them. I care nothing for party lines, the adhering to which is re- sponsible for the deplorable mess in which we find our domestic affairs. The disgusting spectacle of the leaders of the old parties, one of whom is a president, putting party interests above all else, and openly admitting that they seek only the party's interests should conduct every conscientious man to the conclusion that neither is now fit to train with. It is equally plain that a third party cannot live, pitted against both. I do not know by what authority the custom of printing the so-called local items originated. I do say that we have wasted too much time and money in printing such drivel. Lot us abandon this practice and devote these pages to an exposition of the records of the men we send to Washington. This space could be divided, if thought best, among the several states, to thb end that every man among us would be intimately ac- quainted with the record of our repre- sentatives. If this is not done, leave oil so much of it as is needful, put In some leading editorials for our cause, reduce the price and appoint every member an agent to place this journal in the hands of new subscribers. Don't you think yon could secure some subscriptions to such a Journal? Then are you willing to d» nate the price of one subscription each month to the cause? Are you willing to dig into the records of these public servants and let It be known? Not just today, but day after day, as long as you hold a union card. I do not mean ran- dom talk, but common sense intelligently applied. Learn the history of your own movement, learn the history of the man who asks your vote, put them both be- fore your friends. Ask them today and tomorrow to vote for your man. If you like this idea get behind it Don't seek an exposition of your ideal through these columns; it will take too long. Primaries are now close at hand; let us get busy. Let us deliver our vote in a solid unit What do you say? Cert. 2308, Div. 59 “ADVANCEMENT." 1 have perused, with much pleasure, the article entitled "Educational Topics* appearing in the February issue of Th» Telegrapher. I heartily agree with the writer of that article when he claims that much valuable space is wasted with the printing of fraternal happeningB of no consequence, which space might fe* better be devoted to profitable reading matter in the shape of labor new* 1 Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 477 doubt if any of ns really take any en- joyment or profit from the items placed in those columns and the sooner they are discontinued and something worth while substituted the better the majority will be pleased. I should like to request any “Doubting Thomas” to take a look at any other worthy organization's official paper and see whether or not it wastes valuable space with such items, or whether it de- votes every line it can spare to the up- lifting of its craft For instance, glance at the Medical Journal, The Electrical Workers* Journal. The Grain Growers' Guide. The Farm and Ranch Review and the official organs of the other railroad unions. I believe that there is another matter which should be brought before the brothers for their action individually tor only as individualy can we attain suc- cess, I refer to what the doctors call “professional ethics," in other words, to elevate our calling in the eyes of the public. Somehow or other 1 always shudder when I am reading a book and come to a passage referring to an agent or operator because I know from past ex- perience that the author will picture the character as an ungrammatical, unedu- cated. tobacco-spitting ignoramus. Am I not right? Refer to Stephen Laycock's “Pigs Is Pigs," or to B. M. Bower's “Starr of the peeert," etc., etc. This is not true to life, so why do they persist in tbe misrepresentation? It is because agents do not take their place, as a rule, in tbe social functions of the com- munity In which they reside; they rarefy take public offices, such as mayor or councilor, or as a member of the local boards of trade, and consequently are unknown factors with the public in gen- eral. I believe every agent should make himself felt. Does the railroad object to this practice? Then the railroad be hanged ; there is no reaeon whatever why the railroad should dictate a man's pri- vate associations. Another faetor in re- ducing the status of the telegrapher and the agent to that of the menial is the livery which, on a few roads, he is re- quired te don. There is no reason in the world why an agent should wear a uni- form or livery any more than other pro- fessional men, and all telegraphers should protest against it and discard it at once. It has been said that a uniform is necessary so that passengers may rec- ognize the agent on the platform and be enabled to do business with him there. Can any agent find time to transact business on the platform when a pas- senger train has arrived in addition to slugging baggage, express, and delivering train orders? This is no excuse. Is this organization intending to allow the railroads to continue to dictate to us when off duty as to our investments, etc.? Personally I can see no reason why. If T so desire. I cannot handle a little secretarial work after hours and thus supplement my salary in order that I may continue to exist off the pittance the railroad hands me every two weeks. The secretary of our municipality gets $1800 a year, with the privilege of han- dling real estate on the side. Last Jan- uary he made $275 in addition to his salary. Why can we not do the same, or are we In bondage? Let us awaken. It is high time. Cert. 1684. THE AGENT-OPERATOR. I sincerely wish and hope that some real action be taken at this critical time to adjust the most wicked condition that tbe agent-operator is placed in at the present time. The following is the real summing up of the “pulling wool over the eyes of the agent-operator" stunts pulled off a few years ago: It was found that operators in general would not bid on agent-operator positions because of the low wage earned in com- parison with that of the operator and clerk-operator and vrtien it became ex- tremely bard for fhe company to fill these jobs through the bidding method, they simply closed down on all those holding these positions, and without no tice of any kind withdrew all agent- operators from fhe roster in order to Digitized by Google

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478 The Railroad Telegrapher. keep these jobs filled at a low rate ot pay. The first thing any of the agent- operators knew of this change was when they bid in some position and were kindly advised by the division operator that they had no roster rights. My contention is that if these jobs are so hard to fill there is something wrong with them, either working conditions, low pay, excess responsibility with compar- ably low pay for such work, or there is some other condition which make the jobs hard to fill through the bidding methods. There is no reason whatever to exclude the agent-operator from the roster on grounds so often founded. He does as much train and commercial work as any operator and in addition to that he is the agent with the Innumerable responsibilities which agents’ work car- ries with it, and for about the same pay as a clerk-operator and in many cases less than an operator. Now if there is something wrong with the agent-operator’s position, why cannot someone correct these wrongs — and here is my idea of it: We are quite strong as an organization at the present time, and if so desired the O. R. T. can put ns where we were a few years ago and where we rightly belong. A few years ago when the company pulled that stunt on the agent-operator we had no organ- ization to handle the matter for us; we were not recognized then, but today it is quite different, and I feel that the only way out is to put the agent-operator on the roster through the latest agreement with the management and then if the Jobs go begging, let the company make these positions worth while, and there will not be any trouble filling them. Let them raise the rate to such a ijoint that they will be attractive to the bidders, and if a man elects to take the extra responsibility, he will get extra pay for so doing, but at present they are getting agent’s work done for clerk-operator’s pay and the dead wrong is in the unde- niable fact that the agent-operator must stay in those bonds of slavery until the company sees fit to move him, while the clerk-operator can move about if his con- ditions do not suit him or her, and to top this off let me tell yon what an officii] told me just a few days ago. There to a certain man (an agent-operator) on the list for promotion for efficient service; he had a “no-mark” record, nothing on him in any way. He was asked to take several higher positions and in each case accepted, but never got the jobs. So this man became tired of these actions and finally demanded to know why his move did not come as expected, and his superior officer politely told him that the only reason was that his job (agent- operator’s) was too hard to be filled, not because it was a heavy job exactly, but for the fact that it was an agdnt-opera tor's Job and no one wanted it And this employe is still at the agent-oper- ator’s job because he is the victim of his fellow employes and men who hold less responsible positions. Now, consider these facts, facts’they all are, and tell me, if you can, why the agent-operator is the goat of the railroad company. Will you try to do something for the agent-operator? Victim. "POOR AGENT-OPERATOR." Referring to the article in the February issue of the Railroad Telegraphu, by Cert. 174. While he is talking abent justice -to all concerned, I would like to ask if he would consider that justice had been meted out if he bid on some job he liked, which would have been a pro- motion had he gotten it, to have some man younger in service than himself get the Job. Merely because he had so much experience at a small "OS” station job. Where practically all he had to do was make out his reports at the end of the month. “Nil”! Anyone who has had any experience to railroading at all can handle the small one-man station which Cert. 174 refers to. But considering the difference in the work and the pay received not many of the boys want them. I for one bare turned down dozens of them since start- ing railroading, for that same reason- But do you suppose I wouldn't consider Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 479 myself justified in bidding in on a large station, with lots of help and more pay, if I had a chance? What is seniority for if not to give those entitled to it the preference? Another thing I would, like to call your attention to Cert. 174: you refer to these men not having the ability to handle these jobs and working hardships on their office staff. Railroad companies these days are not so blind or so lenient that they will stand for anyone “messing” around (as you called it) a station very long, if he isn't capable of handling the job. So don’t let a little thing like that worry you. Anything that gets my “goat” is to al- ways hear someone grumbling about be- ing misused, just because he hasn’t got the best job on the system; and knocking the other fellow because he has had patience enough to stick around until he can land something good. What is our schedule for if not to treat everyone alike? Haven’t we fought long enough for our rights already and had a hard enough time to get them recognized; without some new man coming on the road, and just because he hasn’t enough seniority to give him a general manager's job, try to stir up a feeling of discontent among some of the old stogies? And on top of that to have the audacity to say if the matter wasn’t rectified something will happen to the O. R. T. that will shake it to its foundation. Really, It’s laughable in one sense of the word and disgusting In another, to think that anyone who is supposed to have the ability to handle a station on a railroad would come down so far as to poll that stuff and try to get away with it. Would say. Cert. 174. that it will take more than the hard luck grumbling of a one man station agent (looking for a higger job) to shake the O. R. T. any Place. And as far as shaking Its founda- tions It's absolutely out of the question, an earthquake couldn't do that, because the foundation is made up of Good Loyal Brothers, who stand for “Equal Rights and Justice to AJ1.” Cert. 975, Div. 43. WERE OPERATORS AT THE START. Cert. 1983, in the March number, cer- tainly does hit the high spots in his treatise on Station Agents’ Work and Responsibilities, and I am unable to un- derstand how his light has been hid all of these years. In taking snap judgment, one would be led to believe that the officials of his road have overlooked a man of great possibilities, and one falls to understand how he could find something of merit In being a lowly telegrapher, who is sup- posed not to know anything until he has reached the exalted position of a station agent I wonder if he remembers the time when he started pounding brass, and if he knew all of the complexities of mod- em railroad duties, and his qualifications, or did he start right off In “high.” One reason why a good many operators take up station work Is due to the fact that the good old “Dollar JBIH” makes a noise these days. Another is, it makes no difference how long they worked, they never would get very far along the road which leads to being good telegra- pher, so naturally they take up station work, and other duties. On the other hand the straight operator wants to do nothing else except wire work, and as they grow, the better posi- tions for them are open, and you will find the larger percentage of officials, bear witness to the fact that they were good operators, also men of sound Judg- ment We are all from the same tree, broth- ers, and if you want to branch off on one limb and I on the other that is our privilege, but you must never lose sight of the fact that telegraphy and operators is the comer stone of our organization, having been so conducted since infancy, and having reached a wonderful growth on that account. What rewards we have gained have been through being opera Digitized by Google

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480 The Railroad Telegrapher. tors first, and It is a privilege that we are going to guard well in the future. Cert. 626, Div. 4. 8TATION AGENTS' DUTIES. In the March Telegrapher I read with much interest “The Station Opera- tor” by Cert. 3693. I notice he says, when an operator accepts service with the eompany he serves' as an operator with duties pertaining to the handling of trains and nothing else. I have read my schedule over time and time again and I cannot find where it covers that an op- erator is to do nothing but handle trains. It shows very plainly that railway tele- graph and railway telephone service of any character or duration, also station agents, incorporated in the schedule, will be considered telegraphers. Therefore all operators and agents in the schedule are telegraphers and the schedule covers both as far as work is concerned. An- other article reads: If a telegrapher con- siders himself overworked his statement to that effect to the proper official will be carefully considered and if well founded relief will be granted. Therefore if the station operator considers that the agent is giving him too much work he should apply to the proper official for re- lief. When an agent applies to an official for help the first thing he asks is: “What do you give your night operator to do?” Is It any wonder the agent asks operators if they know anything about station work? At most places there are night passenger trains. Would Cert. 3693 have the company put another man in office to sell tickets for these trains while the operator is sitting back in his chair behind a cloud of smoke enjoying a news- paper or a friendly magazine, as he claims the cabin operator does. I can’t agree with Cert. 3693 when he claims the agent who has an operator capable of looking after the work in his absenee considers himself fortunate and in a good many cases takes the advantage of the operator in this respect. He will put in a few short hours in the forenoon and an hour in the afternoon, enjoying the remainder of the time being home or speeding through the country in his auto- mobile. If the agent has a staff and is not required to do the handling of trains, his work calls him away from the sta- tion. I know agents who are not around the station more than a couple of hours each day, but they are out around the place getting business. If an agent has to handle tbe trains and is at the station alone, he has to be on the Job all the time to answer the train dispatcher and local fones, deliver freight and express, etc. I can’t see where he has much of a chanee to be running around the country in his car. Even at places where there are only the regular trains the agent-operator has to be on the Job as the public is con- tinually around for freight, express, etc.; not so with the operator for he can close up the station and beat it, if no trains are close, as freight and express offices are usually closed at 6 p. m. It la op- tional with the operator whether he de- livers freight and express after hours and in the majority of cases the agent does not allow it At stations where the operator handles express from the night trains he is paid for the handling by the agent I have been an agent for over eight years and I know a little as to the work of the operator and also the agent At exclusive agencies tbe agent generaly has a staff who does most of the work, bnt at the one-man stations the agent does it all except where he can get the operator to do some. The agent at the exclusive agency gets considerable more pay than the agent-operator, yet the agent-operator has to do the work of both the agent and the operator. Why should the agent- operator not receive the pay of both? At this station the agent received tea cents an hour more than the night operator. The agent here doee more work tn tbs handling of trains and also doee all the station work, wife the exception ef sell- ing tickets for the passenger trains which arrive during night operators* bom. I consider the agent should receive fifty per cent more flor his work at least Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 481 We can’t get good agents to relieve us. When we lay off they usualy send us an operator who has Just starter on the road and is not familiar with the agent's work, consequently, when we return to work we are behind putting things in shape again. Good men won’t take the relieving job as the operator’s pay is about the same and much easier. 1 know two men who were agents for over ten years who bid in night jobs. The reason they assigned was that the agents’ work was too heavy ahd that they were tired of being buffer between the company and public. Cert. 1983 "Station Agents’ Responsi- bility and Pay,’’ in the March number, gives a very good outline of the duties of agent and 1 will not enumerate fur- ther. The agent-operators have been under- paid for so long that it is time we were up and doing. We should receive at least fifty per cent more than operators at places where the agent does the same work as the operator and the agents’ work besides. All we ask is what is due us and we can’t get it unless we go after it strenuously. The best place for this is at our meetings. Let us voice our opinions both pro and con and get this long standing grievance cleared up. Cebt. 812, Div. 7. COMMISSIONS. paid or collect. They get the tolls either way, certainly they do. The commission on express handled could easily be raised by going after it with all hands, but there is something in our way. What is it? Well, is it not a fact that many agents at strawberry stations get their living from the express commission during the berry seasons? This on many railroads is figured as a part of the agent’s salary; you know this, then why is it so figured? When the little folks ask for more money for express commissions, the agents who make $2,000 a year on strawberries actually hesitate to join us. I say that the railroad should pay these agents a living wage, then the commission on express at all stations in the U. S. could be adjusted by contract with the express company. Talking won’t get us anywhere; we must decide and then go ahead with the intention of bringing back the goods. Oh, think of the red tape that is being put on us these days. 1 say that the working conditions need to be remedied. You know that we are soon to get entirely rid of handling the U. 6. mail. What a great blessing it will be. Now go after that dime for handling messages. Think about it and then act. Cert. 619, Div. 36. COMMISSIONS AND REIMBURSE- MENTS. I wish to add just a few words to what has already been said about the express &nd telegraph business and the small commissions that some few agents and operators are able to still get, while others like myself fail to get any com- mission at alL We do not seem to be strong enough to demand; we allow the companies to dictate too much, when it comes to what we are entitled to for our services. The little 10 per cent habit has gotten into our bones. We should have 10 cents in money for each and every telegram or message where revenue is involved in either direction, in other words sent or received telegrams, no master whether 1 am sure we all are of one accord in regard to handling commercial work for the telegraph company on one hand and handling mail sacks for the railroad com- panies on the other hand. The injustice perpetrated on us by both should not be allowed to be continued and the last circular Issued by our su- perintendent of telegraph asking us to solicit more business to better compen- sate us for handling it, is amusing to say the least and surely he can’t expect us to swallow such "stuff” indefinitely. The railroads on the other hand have been allotted additional compensation for handling mail according to space — I pre- sume because it incurs additional mail Digitized by Google

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482 The Railroad Telegrapher. sacks toting by their agents — but where do we come ini Handling commercial work and mail sacks without compensation, regardless of the letters of appreciation received from both corporations does not cut down our H. C. L. — neither do these "let- ters or circulars of appreciation" when presented to your creditor keep him from insisting on something more definite in the form of cash — and I have yet to see the brother who has paid his bills with the aforesaid "letters of appreciation" and 1 believe it is time to insist on being reimbursed in a more substantial way — with something that we can satisfy our creditors with. Surely, the time has arrived for action — and why delay instructing our commit- tees to get busy? It certainly appears we are of one mind and opinion in re- gard to the above and why delay longer? Let us get busy, boys, and get rid of the nightmare that has robbed us of many a good night’s sleep. Get behind your committee and stay behind it and uphold its action in word and deed and let them realize beforehand that you can be depended on, individually and collectively. Don’t allow the corporations to laugh at us up their sleeve, thinking they have hoodwinked us with a few "letters of ap- preciation." That method is about worn out, and let us tell them so in one con- tinuous howl that will be "heard around the world." Cert. 2444, Div. 15. U. S. MAIL. I fully agree with W. C. Harmon and his manner of handling of the U. S. mails. I have to make two trips to the Post Office every evening and three trips on Saturday evening, and what have I to handle mail with? I have my back to carry it on, that is all. I am required to make several trips when there happens to be no friend who takes pity and helps me carry it out We have to carry it four blocks, and when I get to the Post Office there Is the postmaster to greet me with a white shirt and collar and I come dragging in with a cargo of mao, mud and snow, while he stands back and smiles at the amount of mail. I cannot see why we should be compelled to do this when our schedule says when the mail is burdensome and interferes with the proper handling of trains that the op- erators should be relieved of it. Up to this time have been unable to secure relief. I am talking for our third trick man as well as for myself and an army of op- erators who are in the same position as we are. What does our agent care? He has a helper to handle his share of the mail and we operators are the goats. He is the head of the office force and when we speak to him about it, all he says is that he is willing to get rid of it, but never takes any steps to help us. The only way that we will ever get rid of the handling of U. S. mail is to set our toet down and say that we will not do it Let's get together on this mail subject and get rid of it forever. Cebt. 3234. HANDLING U. 8. MAIL. I have read the article on the subject of handling U. S. mail by station em- ployes, and while this service has been performed for years by the station forces, we have not been able to get this matter properly adjusted, which I believe should be given careful thought by our com- mittee when we get out our new schedule. While we have assisted the postmaster with the work which belongs to the Post Office department and not to the agent, without being compensated for the serv- ice, why not get our shoulder to the wheel and give him the work for which he is being paid for by that department? 1 have been the postmaster’s mule for the past four years and think it about time we got out of this slumber and get the wheels of our committee in motion to abolish the carrying of mail from the Post Office, unless we are paid for the service. I believe it is the duty of every station employe who handles mail to take tho matter up with his local chairman and see if we cannot be relieved of thie b*P Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 483 densome work which has been imposed upon us for years, or are we going to continue handling the mail for the post- master who is paid for our work? Have you stopped and thought of the weather conditions under which you were com- pelled to carry this mall and the condi- tion in which these mail bags were in when they were thrown on the wet ground? Take it all into consideration and see how much yoq consider your services worth for this work and when will we get what is Justly due us for it? We consume the most important part of the day in carrying mail, time that is needed for the selling of tickets and the checking of baggage, but are under instructions to give the U. S. mail our preferred attention. Are we. going to continue to be the servant of the post- master, or are we going to emerge from that lethargy into which we have been subjected and request our committee to notify the Government that it will either have to reimburse us for such service or arrange to deliver the mail to the station platform? Cebt. 459, Div. 29. CONSOLIDATION AND CO-OPERATION VS. DISSENSION. I desire to call your attention to the proposition within the proposed railroad legislation providing for a separate board of adjustment for railroad station agente. As I am now employed as a railroad station agent, I feel that this proposition is of vital interest to myself as well as to all others who are employed in like positions. We are now Represented by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, and our wages and hours of service are handled by the Board of Adjustment Number Three. The proposition to make a division and establish the agents as a class by them- selves is an attempt to revive the caste spirit and craft jealousy that has resulted in so many conflicting organizations in the railway service, and is not intended to maintain harmony between telegra- phed and agents employed in the same office, and in my judgment, would create discord to the detriment of the service both to the railway administration and the general public. The average railroad station agent is a telegrapher first and a member of the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, and a station agent as a side line, from his reg- ular duties as telegrapher. The only difference in the duties of the telegrapher and those of the station agent is in the degree of responsibility; that is, the agent is directly responsible to the higher officials for the conduct of the work at his station, and the operator fs responsible to the agent and to the officials for such work as has been as- signed to him. The rate of compensation as between operators and agents has always been calculated to be sufficient to provide an incentive for operators to learn the duties of agents and strive for advancement. The compensation of agents has been fig- ured on the basis of salaries and com- missions, and, counting all commissions as salary, in most cases the agent’s com- pensation is now 25 to 30 per cent in excess of telegraphers; and in my judg- ment, the complaint of the station agents is not so much a matter of compensation as a matter of co-operation with the other classes of employes, telegraphers and clerks especially, upon whom he must depend for assistance in maintain- ing the standard of efficiency at his sta- tion. In my experience as a railroad station agent, handling a station with operators and clerks has taught me the lesson that the way to make a success is to stick together. The rule and guide for our conduct toward each other should be mutual co-operation in giving good serv- ice. I do not believe that it is necessary to ally ourselves with any other organiza- tion, or to form a separate organization of our own. A separate organization would be fatal to harmony between operators and agents and would weaken instead of strengthen. The O. R. T. has given the agents a square deal, and through this organiza- Digitized by Google

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484 The RailBoad TelegBapiIeB. * tion our condition has been much lm- proved. 1, therefore, believe that there should be consolidation and co-operation of the various railroad organizations before the boards of adjustment of the Government rather than the creation of new boards of adjustment and the organization of new craft unions. Ckbt. 552, Div. 126. (Note) — The above article is a copy of letter written to U. S. Senator Robert L. Owen and is an excellent argument ad- vanced against the secession movement. INFLATION OF PRICES. We are too much in the habit of stop* ping half way in our thinking, especially on economic problems. We are too prone to feel content with apparent causes ana superficial solutions. In such times as the present, when grave problems are pressing for solutions, it is an extremely serious matter. The destinies of man- kind hang in the balance, and unless we prove equal to the task, the consequences may be fatal to the life and progress of our civilization. The current thought on the high cost of living is a good illustration of what I mean by half-way thinking. Here is a situation that concerns every one of us. The swelling in the prices of everything has made everyone’s pocketbook look as if an elephant had been camping on it for many moons, and should have stimu- lated all to seek the true and basic causes. But what is actually the case? Some do a little thinking, discover that a few people are making inordinate profits and therefore jump to the conclu- sion that the source of all the trouble is in "profltering.” If they carried their in- vestigations and thinking a little further they would undoubtedly find that profi- teers never make high prices. On the contrary, the profiteer is the product of advancing prices, and blaming the profiteer for the high cost of living is putting the cart before the horse. Other people, whose minds run along different lines, put the blame for high prices on labor. This is another kind of thinking which stops so near the point from which It starts that it really gets nowhere. High money wageB, like high profits, are the result and not the cause of high prices. The wage earners, oi the whole, have not advanced in real earnings in the past few years. The ad- vances In wages barely kept up with the advance in the cost of living. Labor know 8 It and is very much exercised over the fact. 1 should say labor unrest has been fully justified by recent conditions in our industrial and economic Ufa However, there is the trouble. Labor blames the profiteer, the manufacturer blames labor, the retail merchant blames the Jobber, the consumer blames tba re- tailer, and meanwhile prices go merrily on and upward. We cannot stop prices from rising so long as we do not know what makes them soar. But we won't find out why until we think of the prob- lem In a clear and comprehensive man- ner. The rise in prices has been uni- versal. It has affected different commodi- ties in different degrees, but it has also raised all prices to a higher general level. Such a world-wide and general fact cannot be explained by partial and isolated causes. It must have a general cause, and clear thinking consists in an effort to find it. In fact the cause is clearly discernible. It Is the inflation of currency and credit which has taken place all over the wofld. In the United States, currency is Inflated about 68 per cent, and credit 100 per cent This is enough to explain the rise of prices in tbe past few years. Inflation means that people in general have been granted power to buy more things and to com- mand more services than is justified by the supply and productive capacity of the country. Everyone who feels a few coins jingling in his pocket, or is given credit in the bank becomes a bidder for the country’s products, and more bidders without a corresponding increase In sup- ply means high prices. This ts actually the condition in the country today. It Is this fundamental tide that has settled tbs Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 485 'value of the dollar and we should recog- mize it. The Federal Reserve System is charged as being largely responsible for the pres- ent inflation, and advocated changes in ‘the provisions for reserves, and in the administration of the law. In the above the need of clear economic thinking is illustrated, our methods of spreading ac- curate information, and of stimulating thought on economic matters are inade- quate. Of course there are many agencies which now undertake to supply such tar formation. Some of the material which is sent out by them is good, but it reaches a comparatively small part of the com- munity.' There is gerat need for the economic education of the vast majority of our peoples. Belgium is the only country that, since the war, has reduced the cost of living. While the war was on, living costs soared to 1,110 per cent above the prewar prices. On May 1st, 1919, it had been re- duced to 244 per cent. On November 11th, 1919, a year after the armistice, it was the only country among the European belligerents that was not rationing its inhabitants. It was the only country that was not shaken with strikes, lockouts and industrial rows. It was the only country that was free from the black shadow of Bolshevism. It was the only country that was steadily increasing wages, improving the condi- tion of its workers, raising the average of economic conditions, and still strength- ening and not debating its labor organiza- tions. Until we return to more normal condi- tions in relation to our economic situa- tion, affecting a cure would be like the American Indians curing the pioneers of dandruff — "by scalping." Cert. 918. “A NEW PUBLICATION." In the March number of The Telegra- pher, I noticed an article written by a 0. L. Brown, Div. 56. The title of his article was "An Unbiased Press." 1 am perfectly in accord with Mr. Brown's idee that there la need of a labor press which will speak the truth. Mr. Brown states that he Is willing to assist any movement which will advance the cause of "Justice and Truth." I wish to call his attention to a paper, "National News," which Upton Sinclair expects to publish soon. I would suggest that Mr. Brown correspond with Mr. Sinclair, Pasa- dena, California. Below are a few of the paper’s princi- ples: A newspaper endowed and maintained by those who wish to read tacts and not propaganda. A newspaper democratically managed by its readers and published in their in- terest A newspaper governed by a constitu- tion and code of laws which protect free discussion and make suppression and falsification Impossible. A newspaper bound to no party or creed, but to all parties and all creeds. A newspaper for news and not for profit Open covenants openly arrived at, in journalism. A board of directors that meets in a public auditorium. The Truth, the Whole Truth and noth- ing but the Truth about the whole world. All those interested enough to back a movement of this kind. Information free, just write to Upton Sinclair, Pasadena, California. I have written Mr. Sinclair and re- ceived his circular stating the idea of his paper and I heartily recommend it to anyone who is seeking the truth. Cebt. U10. UNREST. No matter to what point of the compass your thoughts turn we see and hear a spirit of "unrest." Society in a turmoil as if fermentation were in action in every fibre of it. To the student of economic forces it is the travail of a changing order. The ruling element of our existing order is much exercised over what it looks on as the unhealthy discontent of the masses. Discontent in what is gen- Digitized by Google

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486 The Railroad Telegrapher. orally accepted as the “Herd” is always viewed as unhealthy, and to allay it is looked on as the duty of the “superman” on the same principle as the cowboy of the range sings to offset a stampede of the “Herd” of the plains. It is with some of the methods placed forward that this article will deal with. Some of them bordering on the tragic, some humorous, and others ridiculous. In the law of “Cause and Effect” there must evidently be a cause. The reaction- ary and standpatter assign the cause to depravity of the multitude. The learned attorney general of this United States introduces the first remedy. He informs the people it is caused by agitators, even resorting to the spectac- ular when he loads a ship load of alleged agitators and pjoceeds to practice the tactics of “czardom” that this nation has so often condemned when it was a monop- oly of Romanoffs. Just as if deportation of individuals ever deported or jailed an ideal. To Attorney General Palmer, wrongs are not in commission, but in publication. He deports the brood, but praises the incubator that breeds them. That is the tragedy role of this emi- nent officeholder. Here is his remedy based on comedy: “We will reduce the high cost of living.” This is the grandest joke of modern times. Jailing profiteers under a profitmaking system, if I have a right to make six per cent, I have same right to make twelve and continue as far as numerals will permit as long as profit is the game, and get yours and get it first is the goal. The last heard from in this great comedy is that they had caught a peanut vender and confis- cated his cart, jailed a frankfurter man, and then handed what remained of the campaign over to Charley Chaplin to screen it for the amusement of “movie” followers. We have the “go back to normal” advo- cates, as if you could ever get back to normal after a world-wide upheaval. How far back these advisers do not say, but if we must go back every time an acute situation makes its appearance in this complex and conflicting state of organized society we will soon land in the Stone Age. What is wanted is forward to nor- mal, not back. “Give labor a living wage” is the wail of others. Now you noble sons of toil here you have your worth — enough to fur- nish you fodder to maintain your animal existence, and with this you are to be content. In fact this sage lays your dis- content at not being able to get 6 or 8 per cent beer. Bordering on the humor- ous, this doctor for unrest adds insult to your intelligence by placing your men- tality on the level of your stomach, and your reasoning powers in your digestive organs instead of the gray matter under your dome — great stuff! Increase production is the wail of others; speed up! This usually comes from one who never did a day's produc- tive labor in his life. Yes, the working masses are advocates of increased pro- duction, even to increasing the producers by inviting those who are running advice factories to get out and do some useful work instead of waiting until labor pro- duce values, and then ever ready to grab them and by clever juggling up and juggling down make more income out of it than those who made it a real value by the application of labor. Many of the champions of “Increased Production" would throw a fit if you would suggest that they might Join the army of pro- ducers. One hundred per cent Americanism. Ah! now you got it American workmen that compose the great masses were al- ways, are now, and always will be 100 per cent American, but they want that generality dissected. If it means sub missive to every indignity heaped on them, docile while they are being shackled, or contented under conditions where contentment would be a crime, then they are not 100 per cent 8ince the American boy read the historical story of the Boston riots and the Boston tea party he has been taught to consider 100 per cent Americanism was the tendency to protest tyranny no matter under what form it might raise its head, and this in- cludes the industrial despot as well as the imperial one. Digitized by VjOOQLC

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 487 One of the latest remedies that has come from a well known railroad officer Is “Hiss them off the platform.” Great logic. Whenever your established order has reached that stage of decay that it must meet its opponents with a “hiss,” or bolster up its tottering form by “force” then you are reaching the danger stage. A “hiss” for “reason,” a “blow” for “argument” is the beginning of the end. To this can be added the doctor of unrest who calls odious names by coin- ing some word or phrase surrounding it with “press” made odium, and then yell- ing it in lieu of argument. This is an- other tragical reipedy for “unrest.” Oh! here is the peach. “Treat 'em rough.” In countries of the world where this has been used as a panacea for “un- rest” you know what Was the result. Enuf se d. To those quack remedies can be added “Give Us a Business Government,” “Adopt Welfare Work,” “Organize Family Organizations of Employes” — anything that will deal with effect without dis- turbing the cause. It would not be complete without ex- amining the foundation of unrest — the Public Educational System — in other words “The Public School.” You have taught the common people to think, de- veloped his mental faculties as well as physical, and to think rationally. Like the story of Frederick Douglass (one- time slave) who learned to read, and in his life's memoirs he says: “When I read, I thought, and this brought the dis- covery that I was of a subject and ac- cursed race of man-made law. My very soul caught fire, and I never knew an hour of contentment after this awaken- ing. Where once I enjoyed the content- ment of blissful ignorance in the belief that all the world was 'slavery.' educa- tion turned it all.” So with the working masses. Educa- tion has taught them that, an established order that places the most useful class in the lower strata is an unnatural one. He is beginning to see that civilizations are built on his back. His willingness to labor is the foundation stone of established order. Mass action in the industrial field has demonstrated that when he ceases to work, every other institution of society begins to totter. The workers are begin- ning to resent that they are what cen- turies has designated them — the common people. They are in reality — the uncom- mon people, and it is this ideal that is causing the world's unrest, as what started in a war of conflicting economic groups called nations is evolving into a conflict of social ideals. As the bulwark of national defense the war has taught them their value. First as bullet makers, then bullet transporters. They were the bullet flrers, and in the large majority they were the bullet receivers. They were told they were spending their money and life to “make the world safe for democracy” and if some members of the present lawmaking bodies, judges and executives, are the exponents of “democ- racy” then I have been laboring under a delusion as to the meaning of the word. Unrest will be prevalent as long as there are causes of unrest, and as the causes develop the effect will correspondingly develop with them. You can not allay unrest by turning back and attempting to shackle railroad and other employes to private money drawers. You will not work for normal conditions when a judge can assume a despotic position and en- join men to return to their work, drive them back to their jobs as the chattel slave of early days was driven back under the “Fugitive Law.” If the corporate power (as it is reflected in the power of state) can be used to break up peaceable gatherings of workmen, you will never have peace under the present order. They are wrongs of civilization more than of individual, and we have reached that stage of industrial development when it is not a question of a few cents' increase, working conditions, etc., but a shuffle of the industrial order itself. Unrest will not diminish only by some fundamental changes, and changes that can not be solved alone by Industrial action of or- ganized labor. They must extend to the fields of politics, co-operation and social endeavor. Mack. Digitized by Google

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FRATERNAL NOTICE All items for this department must be in the hands of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer on or before the 25th day of the month in order to insure their insertion in the following issue. 8prlngfleld, Mass., Dlv. 38. Boston <fr Albany R. R., Boston Division — Installation of officers held Saturday night, March 20th. Bro. Prank Sargent again In- stalled chief telegrapher. Bro. 8argent has held this office for a great many years and he has always made an honest effort to give a just decision In all his rulings. Bro. M. J. Walsh was installed again as secretary- treasurer. Sisters Sibley and Gilmore at- tended this meeting, also Bro. Tenney from "DX." Brothers, attend the meetings ; there is great need of your presence there at this time. Bro. Alruta read his report of the do- ings of the general chairmen, recently held at Washington. Bro. William Bates is still on the sick list, and he writes me thanking the different em- ployes who remembered him. Make this division solid by getting in Bar- rett, Tower 19 ; J. Eastman, Tower 22. and Longbottom, at Charlton- It is up to the latter to resign as secretary of the O. R. B. A. Those men like to bid in the tower Jobs but do not want to pay their share to sup- port an organization that has been working for their Interest and is still on the Job in Washington today. Several of the members want a sick bene- fit in Division 22. Providence Division 26 has had one for several years and made a success of it. Why not 38? I am starting a paper for your signature, to see if you are willing to pledge your support in favor of it. Bro. Staples has been advocating this matter for some time. I have three different plans which I would like the members to consider. Any one of th^m should be acceptable. Hop- ing you will think this matter over and act accordingly for the best good of all con- cerned. Cert. 420}fc. New York, N. Y., Div. 44. Long Island R. R. — Our sympathy is extended to Bros. Pape, Slffer, Madden, Powers, Murphy. Dalton, Yel- lowlea. Leonard. Meredith and Webb, whose families have been seriously ill. Five brothers whe served the United States during the war have all been honorably dis- charged and are back on the road, Bro. Lam- bert being the enly one wounded. The Ladies’ Auxiliary has been very suc- cessful recently, raising funds with card par- ties and other functions. Our sick benefit association already has 86 members and has started a drive for 200 this year. Write Bro. M. E. Harris, 171 Chichester avenue, Jamaica, for full par- ticulars. The minstrel show presented at the Acade- my of Music by the employes of the L L R. R.. for the benefit of St. Mary's Hospital, was the most successful affair ever given by the men on this road. If you have succeeded in securing four or five new members, let that encourage you to go and get four or five more. P. T. Mackxk. L. I. R. R. Notes— Our regular meeting was held in Jamaica, L. I.. Saturday, March 12th, and in aplte of the heavy snowstorm, there was a fine at- tendance, and at every meeting new appli- cations come rolling In. Twenty-eight sew members were added recently to our benefit association, which is in excellent condition. More of our members should join and avail themselves of the benefits derived from it Bro, Teddy Aston was awarded a gold medal by the grand division for 26 years' continuous membership In the Order, which was presented to him through our worthy chief, Bro. Thuma. Bro. Aston desire* to thank the grand division for the honor be- stowed upon him and the courtesy of Divi- sion 44 in unanimously voting him a life- time membership card. Let's all strive for the gold medal. We all missed Seventh Vice-President Boss at the meeting, owing to Important duties which kept hhn in Washington. We hope to see his smiling countenance at the next one. It seems like old times to have Bro. C B. Van Nostrand at the meetings again. and hope he will be eareful, as this is leap year. Bro. Randolph Brown, third *TW," trans- ferred to station department, working extra relieved by Bro. George Arnold. Bra Jack Snelling, second "RK," Is off sfc* with pneumonia. Bro. Tom Dry den is back on second "RH Tower after a week’s illness. It is now Bre. Joe Byron, second "HU" Bro. Fred Peterson, first there, who was gassed while "doing his bit" with the Forty- I second Division "over there," has goto I Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 489 California on sick leave, relieved by Bro. B. A. Smith. Bro. Tom Cunneeley. first “HJ,” spends his idle hours with his reel and rod out the tower window, now that the bay has thawed out He claims the H. C. of L. has forced him to it. During the past month the boys at “VA,” “SP," "FW** and “HU” have had their own troubles on account of floods and washouts. Bro. Cahill, second “FW," and Bro. Con- kin, second “YD,” were In New York on court duty four days recently. Bra Morganwick, agent Corona, on sick leave, was relieved by Bro. Newell, who be- came marooned on account of losing his pas 8.* Bro. D. L Hawkins bid in station master Far Rock a way. vice Bro. Ayers, who went to Woodmere. 8lster H. K. Murray, first Rockaway Park, is sojourning at Daytona, Fla., relieved by Bro. Glen Smith. Bro. Dank, freight agent Hammels, lost four clerks within a week. Better induce- ments on the outside. Bro. Bill Anderson Is relieving Agent Marsh at Oyster Bay for a month. A. M. Bachmeyer, chief clerk to the super- intendent of station service, who resigned to accept a position with a lumber Arm. was given a dinner and presented with a gift by a number of the brothers. We all wish ”A1” success. He sure was a regular fellow. R. W. Farrell, when he assumed his old position as superintendent of station service on March 1st, was very much surprised on walking Into his office to find a large floral horseshoe, presented by employee in the sta- tion department, with a note signed “The Gang,” saying they were with him for good luck and success Mr. Farrell, thanking “the gang** in acknowledgment and appreciation of the beautiful present, said : “There Is no reason why our future relations should not be as cordial as they were before, and you can make it known to all the boys that I am here to listen to their troubles and share them with them.” W. I* Anderson. Chicago, III., Dlv. 91. Biffin A Eastern Ry.~ Sister Brown is back on first ”RH” after a few days' illness, Bro. Balbinot relieving, who also relieved Bro. Lund in, second “MA,” several days. It is now Bro. C. W. Tollman, third “K,” Bra Widup. third “WR,” and myself being responsible. Still another non at that office. Local Chairman De Long, first “DA." was present at the recent conference in Washing- ton, D. C. We would be pleased to hear from him. Bro. Williams relieved Bro. Monks, third "DA,” March 8tb, resigned. Bra F. W. Ackerman, second “Z,” has been granted a 90-day leave to try some other work. Operator Todd relieving. Thanks, boys; let some notes come in, If any of interest. Cert. 347. Ohioaffo A Western Indiana R. H.— General Chairman Shafer returned from Washington. March 1st, after attending a meeting of general chairmen called by Presi- dent Manion, and caHed a meeting March 10th. He explained what was being done at the national capital, and plans were dis- cussed for the future bettering of working conditions on the C. & W. I. The meeting was well attended. We were very glad to see two of our sisters present, also the brothers from Chicago Belt, Indiana Harbor Belt and B. & O. C. T. Vice-President Brown made a very Interesting and instructive talk, and Bro. Hannert of the B. & O. C. T. gave us some good Meas in regard to getting the “boys” closer together in such large termi- nals as Chicago. Bro. Shafer expects In the near future to call a day meeting for the benefit of the “night owls.” Bro. James Wasson, third assistant at 47th Street, is on the sick list, relieved by an extra man. Glad to see Sister McClusky back on duty at 74 th Street Block after a month’s absence on account of sickness. Bro. Wm. McCay of Calumet Draw Bridge and wife celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with the arrival of a baby boy. Congratulations. Calumet Draw Bridge is now solid, thanks to Bros. Flousinger and McCay ; but we still have a few more ”nons’’ that should be given a dose of Bro. McCay’s “medicine.” Ask Bill how he did it Bro. R. A. Murray, agent and operator Oakdale, passed away March 16th after an illness of four months. His wife and baby died last January. There are three small children left, being taken care of by the grandparents, who have our heartfelt sym- pathy in their great loss. Would like to hear from the brothers and sisters, so we can have a good write-up In Thi Telegrapher each month. Let’s make a “spring drive,” round up the few “nons” and help our committee to make the C. & W. I. 100 per cent. Cert. 57. Addison, N. Y., Dlv. 10& Buffalo A Susquehanna R. R. — With deepest regret we learned of the death of our worthy brother, Frank O. John- son, February 29th. agent at Costello. Pa., a faithful member for many years, and his last duties as general chairman, h&ving closed our schedule Just a few days before his death. His wife and little son have the sympathy of the entire brotherhood of the four orders, including the offieials of the company, in their deep sorrow. Digitized by Google

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490 The Railroad Telegrapher. Mr. Sheldon has been installed agent at Costello. We wish to thank Bro. T. M. Pierson, our second vice-president, for his assistance with 'our deceased Bro. Johnson, in securing our schedule with the hearty feeling of the of- ficials. Charles Fisk relieved Mr. Conible, operator Elkland, who took Du Bois agency. C. E, Belcher gets the joint agency at Osceola for the B. & S. and the N. Y. C., re- lieved by a new-comer at Tyler agency. Boys, if you want to get in touch with the labor situation exactly as it is, send one dol- lar to the Plumb Plan League, Washington, D. C.. for membership, which includes the Weekly “Labor*' published there. You will enjoy reading it. Bro. W. A. Fuller, relief agent, has an up-to-date card and will give the nons no rest until they show him. Cert. 0. ‘‘Big Four" R. R., Dlv. 3. C. U. D. Division — The United States Government was origi- nally founded upon the principle of justice to all people. Politics and party lines have always been the “big stick" of Capital against Labor, because the latter made no attempt to regulate politics and policies. But men have become educated in economic con- ditions and now understand their true posi- tion. Scarecrow party lines have been recog- nized as nothing more than “thin air," and, although the railroads have been returned to private control, the Plumb Plan League and its official organ, “Labor” is here to stay, and is mailed weekly to those who send $1.00 for membership to the Plumb Plan League, Machinists' Bldg., Washington, D. C. A certain railroad official made the state- ment, “If I were a laboring man, I would hate to think of selling my liberty to a labor organization.” Membership in a labor union, however, does not abridge that person's liberty. On the contrary, coupled with his or her fellow workers, it greatly increases the member’s liberty or possibility to remain free. As for me, I would much rather sell my liberty to a labor organization than give it to a corporation. Be sure to keep paid up ip the O. R. T. and keep after the few in ”GC” office who show that they are ashamed of themselves when you ask them why they have not joined. Div. Cor. C. St. P., M. & O. Ry., Div. 4. Western Division — There was a large turnout at the Mankato meeting, March 14th, and many questions of a serious nature came up for discussion. General Chairman Liddane, fresh from Washington, gave a splendid talk on the prospects and possibilities being threshed out there in our interests at this time. Several brothers who came from the But failed to show up; but several lady telegra- phers were in attendance, also Bro. and Mrs. F. D. Everett of Ash Creek, who were obliged to take a sleeper through to St. Paul, re- turning on train No. S, even then being un- able to reach home until late next day. How- ever, that is the spirit that has built up the organization on the Omaha road from $0 to 110 per cent. St James and Madella were splendidly represented at the meeting. A series of meetings are being held on each of the divisions ; Sunday at Mankato ; Tues- day at Spooner ; the following Sunday at Ban Claire, and the 28tb Inst, at Emerson. Neb Your secretary and treasurer, relieved by Bro. P. W. Mynard, accompanied General Chairman Liddane to the Spooner meeting and was greatly pleased with it. That is the banner division on the Omaha — 116 per cent strong and not a non. At Spooner, as at Mankato, there was a very good attendance, and the general chair- man explained our Washington affairs. Other questions of importance came up and every- body present took . an active part. We re- gretted the absence of Local Chairman Mitchell, owing to the serious illness of his wife, who, we learned next morning, was im- proving. There should be no delinquents or nons ou our road. Look after this portion of your obligations in your immediate vicinity and see that your neighbor has paid up or has joined. Bro. O. S. Mann is back at Bingham Lake after a run of the “flu," and Bra W. C Warner at Mountain Lake after suffering a relapse. He was relieved by Bra R C. Moulster, now relieving Bro. Alvord on first St. James side wire. Bro. John H. Atkinson, his good wife and her sister and husband passed through Man- kato recently. He was agent at Truman and Pipestone for many years and continued to carry an up to date after he had purchased a farm at Lake Preston, S. D., which he has now rented and started on a 12,000-mile trip, largely owing to the fact that their only son, like lots of our other brave boys, gave up his young life in the defense of our country on the battlefields of France. Sister A. W. Brooks of Blakeley has re- signed and married a wealthy farmer boy near Belle Plaine, Minnesota. She has the very best wishes for her future happiness from her sister and brother telegraphers who have so long known and enjoyed her ac- quaintance. Sisters Molner, Petersan and Wtlvoord and Bro. O. H. Warner, Lake Crystal, wer* recent Mankato visitors. Bro. R. J. Stelter, agent Mendota, Is sick in a St Paul hospital, relieved hy Bra Robt Beyer. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 491 Bro. W. I. Story of Garden City, operated on In a Mankato hoBpital recently for ap- pendicitis, is recuperating nicely. Bro. W. P. Walker, St. James, recently spent a few days at home in St PauL Bra Geo. W. Welch of Itasca is visiting at Brookings. 8ister Kneefe relieved Bro. H. S. Sever- son, Blue Earth, acting agent at Shakopee, vice Bro. W. J. Ross, gone to Rock Rapids, recently reopened, having been consolidated with the Rock Island there under Govern- ment control. C. H. Blencoe is acting as agent and Sis- ter Blanchard telegrapher at Pipestone, also returned to the Omaha after Government control. Cbrt. 2. Northern Division — The meeting at Spooner, the evening of March 16th, was one of the most successful ever held on this division and was attended by some thirty members, including General Chairman Liddane, General Secretary and Treasurer Tenney and Assistant Local Chair- man Hurst from the Eastern Division. It was an agreeable surprise to have Bro. Ten- ney with us for the first time in many years. He gave us a wonderful talk, outlining the work accomplished by the Order since its in- ception on Division No. 4 and the accomplish- ments s till hoped for. He left us with the best wishes of every member of the division, with the hope that at some near future time he may again honor us with his presence and his inspiring message of hope. General Chairman Liddane gave a very intelligent and interesting talk, outlining what the Order is trying to accomplish for its members, explaining everything in its fullest detail, and closed with a very opti- mistic view of the future. Local Chairman Mitchell was unable to be with us, owing to the very serious illness of his wife, who took sick suddenly with the “flu** the day of the meeting. Bro. Brooks acted as chairman of the meeting in a very apt and satisfactory manner. Those who were not quite familiar with Interpretation No. 8 to Supplement No. 13 bad made plain to them the method of ap- plying it by the general committee. Several new faces were noted at the meeting. The next probably will be held in the early spring and we hope for a good attendance, which will help to build up and maintain an effective, live organization. Oar division is in good shape. The few delinquents who neglected to pay for the cur- rent term have promised to do so at once, and the only nons are a few floaters. Our sympathy is extended to Bro. Gorme- ley, second Superior East End, and family, whose 8 inter passed away recently at Eau Claire after a few days' illness, leaving a husband and father and two little ones to mourn her loss. Bro. Harry Thorpe, second Cable, was a recent caller on ye scribe. Come again, Harry; always glad to see you. Bro. Flanum relieved Bro. Ryan* agent Stanton, a few days, owing to the serious ill- ness of his father. Bros. Wondrowitz, Jenkins, Strausberg and Jann were recent Superior and Duluth call- ers. Those having any news from in and around Rockmont, interesting to the readers of the Superior Telegram and Duluth News- Tribune, should send it to Bro. Strausberg. Those who sent me news items last month kindly keep up the good work, and others who have not done so, please follow their example. I want your notes for every issue. “X,*' Cert 330. Eastern Division — The meeting at Eau Claire, Sunday, March 21st, was well attended, *27 members from the Eastern Division being present General Secretary and Treasurer Tenney gave us a good talk, also General Chairman Liddane. More of the brothers should come out to these meetings, as things are discussed in the lodgo room that are never talked about out- side, and those who do not attend do not get the benefit Bro. Hughdahl has consented to give us a write-up each month. Send him the items that happen in your vicinity to Eau Claire before the 20th of the month. I have acted as your correspondent for about five years, and only one or two of you have sent me any items. The general offices complain having to call you so long. Even though we do not have many train orders any more, other business on the wires requires our attention. The company has a contract with the W. U. to take care of its business and we should give those wires just as good service as we do the rest. We are glad to see those who were down with the “flu” back again. Bro. Engebretson, third Hudson, had to have his tonsils removed. Bro. Thomas is relieving Bro. Jacobson, agent River Falls, off account of his health. It is now Bro. Crosgrove at Altoona. This clears up all the nons east of Eau Claire except G. D. Nelson, third Levis, who says he will be with us soon. There are a number of delinquents on the Eastern Division. If you do not know where they are located ask your local chair- man and keep after them until they Une up again. Every one has had a very sub- stantial raise in the past two years. Make it your business to see that the brothers working keep up their dues the same as you do your own. It is Just as easy to Digitized by Tooele

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'492 The Uailboat) Telegrapher. pay up soon as your card runs out as to wait four or five months and then If any- thing: turns up not be in shape to have the committee take it up for you. for we posi- tively will not take up a grievance for a delinquent or non as the laws of the Order would not allow it to be done even if we did feel Inclined to do so. Cntr, f. Nebraska Division— With the return of the railroads to pri- vate management, has come an increased volume of business en this division, neces- sitating the creation of additional train crews, and opening extra telegraph offices. South Cut will probably be reopened when you read this. People growing accustomed to high prices, are going ahead with construction work, and laying in stocks of merchandise irre- spective of cost, and the railroads will soon be taxed to their utmost to handle the traf- fic. Bro. Austen Morrell, with the Prairie Oil and Gas Co., has returned to railroad work and is now at Temple, Okla., with the Rock Island. Bro. Babcock relieved Bro. Stephenson at Wayne, on sick list Bra Aleck Shearer, second First Street has been relieving A. Shearer on first who promises to be with us again soon. Mr. Herdman, third there, Bhould also be lined up. making First Street solid. We must maintain a solid formation to hold the ground already gained. See that the new men coming to this division from other systems are transferred In accordance with the rules of the order. Bro. P. M. Shearer, while in the Sioux City hospital was relieved by Bro. Gleason from the C. A N. W. Cert. SOS. Union Pacific R. R., Dlv. 6. Kansas Division — Bro. E. S. Poole. Bienville, La., does not expect to return to military service. Bro. F. T. Walker, who resigned several months ago to accept a ticket position In Los Angeles, Is now In Omaha with the Columbian Insurance Company. He and Bro. Feldt, who resigned after returning from military service and went to San Fran- cisco, have both requested reinstatement, but have been refused. They can only come back as new men. Those located at certain designated points have been Instructed to render bills for typewriter rental July 1st, 1919, to date for the use of their “mills," and that L. C. Smith typewriters will be furnished by the company. Bro. Hockensmith relieved O. H. Hoppel on Manhattan ticket agency, who returned to St. Louis as city ticket and freight so- licitor. George F. Calms, "former agent 'at "Bilk, recently returned to the service, later en- gaging In business at ‘Topeka, died of in- fluenza the latter part of February. Bro. W. H. Richardson Is relieving Bra Dickerson at Winifred and * Bro. R. R An- derson relieving Bro. Vaughn at Delia m account Of T>1 ness. Bro Late to extra Mat In preference to Arrington. Bro. R. B. Moore “GN** Kansas City, goes to Junction City second. Bra White, agent Lincoln Center, goes to Manhattan as ticket agent Bro. English opened Mlltonvale agency, consolidated under government control, end Bro. Wilson opened Beloit agency March 1st former bid In by Bro. Bramlett operator Blue Rapids, latter by Bro. R. T. Smith, Minneapolis agency. Bro. Jose relieved Bro Gibson at Winchester, who went to Kansas City as live stock agent Bro. G C. Moore, operator Holton, bidding in Win- chester later. Car distributor Eueker, chief dispatcher's office Kansas City, appointed division agent for this division. * Bro. Nickel Is back at Lucas, after being in bed at the Springs three w«>ek* with the “flu.” Bros. Wilson and Markle relieving during his absence. Bro. Northern relieved Agent Assarts a few days. Bro. Drelllng relieved me while I attend- ed the Satina claim prevention meeting March 11th, also relieved several days on third "DT" Salina. These meetings are very interesting and instructive. Regardless of how much you know, you will learn how to do your work better, thus helping both yourselves and the company. Do you want to know how your repre- sentative in Congress voted on Labor Legis- lation? Ask Bro. Hook. He has the rec- ord. Some of you who complained shout what we received compared with the helpers, no- tice what happened to them as soon as the roads were turned back to their owners. Get the habit! Insist on union m ade shoes and clothing. Boys, please mall me some notes to Bev- erly. It Is almost impossible for roe to get much news outside of the FlalnvWe branch unless you help out. Don't be dis- couraged If some you send in are left oat, as our space Is limited owing to government restrictions limiting the size of our publi- cation. Keep after those few remaining non*. R. F. Dxw hirst. Cert. SSI. Nebraska Division — Bro. Ackerman to first "FR" Omaha, vice Bro. Sam Wallace, who bid in Pleasanton agency, vice Bro. Root, who opened Old, Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 493 Neb., March 1st. BrO. Getsfred to telegraph position there. Bro. Rnmpettes, foner “GE“ Grand Tel and, bid in third Gothenburg, vice C. L. Teel to Kearney ticket agency, and Bro. Fulbrighrt. Grand Island ticket agency. Bro. Vols ap- pointed traveling and freight agent out of Lincoln; Bro. Brakel relieved by Bro. Mor- ris at Oconto to General Agent Grant's office in Lincoln. Bro. Fletcher relieved Bra Reisener, Hay- land. whose brother in Michigan is sick. Bro. Stubblefield has gone on account of the ill- ness of his folks. Bro. U R. Stanfield, agent Scotia, sick, re- lieved by an operator from the first district. Bro. Holbrook relieving at Hanover, Kan., and other points on Central Division owing to sickness among the telegraphers there, later relieved Bro. DeVault 90 days, who bought an interest in a laundry at Central City. Bro. Getstfred, phoner Grand Island, called to Spalding on account of the sickness of his mother. Bro. Mahoney. Poole, also on sick list Bros. Cook, Byrne. Hannum. Parker, Well- man and Loucks attended the March “Cause and Prevention” committee meeting at Kear- ney. Bro. Frank Heaton relieved Smith third gone to California. Cbbt. 610. Colorado Division — Bro. Seeley, agent Weskan, bid in Orchard agency, vice Bro. Meyers, who bid in Fort Collins, opened as a U. P. agency since the roads were returned to private control. Bro. J. V. Connett going there as operator and ticket clerk, succeeded by Bro. Walker at “LTD” Denver. Bro. Niswanger, agent Winona, bid in Lupton day operator, and Bro. Patterson first Sterling. Bro. Kullman has returned from New York and other points Rast to Crook agency. Brothers on Kansas Division who wish to exchange for positions on this division are ; B. C. 8ander, Wheaton, Kan. ; P. C. Mln- ner. third Menoken, Kan., address 1001 North Monroe Street, Topeka, Kan., has three years and seven months seniority and wants to locate north of Denver. Write them for description of their positions. Brothers, send me your notes for the jour- nal each month. Chbt. 962. We*t*m Division — New members : M. F. Pierce, D. Lewis, A J. Barnett and H. A. McCoy. Brothers, keep right after the nona at your stations until they line up. Bro. Cronin Emory, relieved a few days on account of sickness by Bro. R. J. Davis, who later returned to his home in Illinois. Bro. Keyes* agent Echo, off 15 days on ao- ebunt of the death of his son. Bro. Drum, Kilter, In Itodfc 'Springs hospi- tal with “flu,” relieved by Bro. Musgrave. Bros. G. A. Davis aod Alloway Echo, were off several days with the malady. Bro. W. N. Thornhill reinstated at Ogden. Bro. Kh-kman visiting in North Carolina. Bro. Pirtle. agent Wheaton, relieved sev- eral days by Bro. Stuart. Bra C. A. McGu^e, Granger, resigned. Sister Zimmerman. Green River, on extra list, on account of reduction in force. Bro. Glenn S. Ridge, Evanston, and bride (nee Miss Nell Peterson, Morgan, Utah), will spend their belated honeymoon In the West. Bro Ridge was called back to work before they could take It. Bro. Lacy. Green River, initiated into the Elks at Rock Springs recently. Chbt. 648. Wyoming Division — Bro Burnham. Laramie, whose health was Impaired while serving with the A. E. F. In France, is sojourning in Hot Springs, re- lieved by Bro. McCulley. Bro. Homer Ehers. Walcott, has traded positions with Bro. Chas. Collins of Rawlins on the Western Division. Bro. M. T. Gay of Laramie relieved Bro. Toney at ChappeJl. who went on the extra list Bro. Mattock's extra hid In Dix. Bro. Burnham going to Laramie as operator. Benny J. Leonard, formerly of the U. S. Navy, who worked about a month In “NO” North Platte, is now with the O. S. L. at Nampa, Idaho. Bro. J. P. Armstrong, formerly of “NOM North Platte, is now with the American Tele- phone and Telegraph Co. there ae wire chief. Bro. Cary, agent Llsco, colled on Local Chairman Pyle at “NO” North Platte Sun- day recently, the latter now being located there, succeeded at Julesburg by Bro. T. H. Engleman. Bro. F. P. Hagey and T. V. Austin of North Platte are now In business at 2709 Leavenworth street, Omaha, under the firm name of “The Austin and Hagey Tire and Rubber Co.,M doing a general retreading business. Bro. Olson is relieving Manager Austin, “NO” North Platte, ninety days. Bro. Linck, North Platte, wtoo went to Tor- ring-ton. Wyo., to register for the land draw- ing, drew a blank. “Farmer” Bro. Donnelly, first O'Fa lions, has quite an assortment of animals on his “farm” along the right of way. Bro Covey, second O’Fallons. was a recent Lodge Pole visitor. Sister Lucy Riddle Is now on the extra list on account of one operator at O’Fallons be- ing pulled ofT. Archer second and third also pulled off, Bros. Best and Blomquist to ex- tra list, Bro. Frederiefcnon doing the stunt alone. Digitized by tjOOQie

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494 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. I*. F. Johnson to extra list In pref- erence to Melbeta agency, Bro. Jenkins re- lieving. Bro. Osborn was looking over the situation there recently. Bro. Hollen, agent Paxton, after looking over Julesburg agency, decided not to make a change. Bro. Keever, third Ogallala, and Gross off on account of sickness, relieved by Bro. Toney. Bro. Killion, agent Hershey, while taking his wife to Denver hospital, was relieved by Bro. Jenkins. Bro. Schatzer, first Julesburg, has our sympathy owing to the death of his brother with the “flu" in Missouri recently. Bro. Clark bid in second Julesburg. Bro. Laursen, third there, was called to Denver recently on account of sickness, Bro. Jones relieving. Bro. Shoemaker, agent Sidney, is back from his Southern Journey greatly improved in health. Bro. Jones relieved Sister Ruby Doherty on third Kimball, who we understand is to be married soon. Sister Irma Corcoran, Cheyenne, who married Mr. Shehan there, still holds her phone position. We have only a few nons left on the Wyo- ming Division, thanks to the%efforts of sev- eral of the brothers. If you have one work- ing in your office or next to you, keep after him until he joins. The local chairman will furnish you with a list of them upon appli- cation. and remember, ‘Wo cord, no favors.” Now is the time to show our strength by uniting in one solid body. TJnited we stand, divided we fall.** Let’s not fall. The union man should not have any polit- ical party favorites. Only the members of Congress who stood for organized labor are our friends, so don't let political affiliations control your vote, but give the enemies of labor a black eye when you are called upon to decide their fate by your ballot. Cbrt. 143. Canadian Pacific Ry.9 Div. 7. Medicine Hat Division — Meeting held at Medicine Hat, Feb. 8th, called to order, 14K Bro. Hamblin presid- ing, with Bros. Flynn, Ballantyne, Foley, Constable, McKenzie, McAmmond, McKay, Nutter, Hamblin, Isom, Reeves, Wheeler, Spackman and Donald present. Minutes pf last meeting read and ap- proved and several matters of Importance taken up and discussed. Resolutions of sym- pathy were passed and copies ordered sent to Bros. E. R. McFarland, Piapot, Sask and A. A. Smith. Hussar, Alta., in regpxd to the death of their wives. Bro. F. R. Reeves was unanimously elected secretary and treasurer of this divi- sion. Chief Dispatcher Bro. Davidson invited all the brothers present to have dinner with him. Invitation accepted and a vote of thanks tendered him. Bro. Hall is back at Empress again after a tussle with the "flu." Bro. McLarlane and his wife at Piapot were both down with it at the same time. Bro. McKinnon, at Atlee, was also down with it. Several died there. Bra E. E. Allen relieved Bra A. A. Smith, agent Hussar, on account of his wife dying suddenly in Calgary. Bro. W. H. Phillips relieved A. J. Dilley at Irricana agency, and Bro. O. J. Wan- vig is relieving Bro. V. E. Spurgeon at Westerham on account of sickness. Bro. H. T. McDonald goes to first Baa- sano. Bro. Holder, Dunmore, still makes regu- lar trips to Medicine Hat after his laun- dry. (?) Wonder why he don't have it done at Dunmore. The dance in Odd Fellows H&lfc Medicine Hat, Feb. 17th, was a decided success. The officers and staff are certainly to be com- plimented on the way thingB were carried out. The music and floor Were exoeljgnL Bros. Jardine, Reeves. Sproule and Train- master McLean never worry as long as there are restaurants and hotels. Bro. Davidson had the time of his life surrounded by ladies all evening. Ouess we won’t have to find him a boarding bouse after all. Bro. Hamblin is after the nons and we will soon be 100 per cent strong. “Bobbie" Acheson, our good looking avia- tor from Irvine, has taken out papers which the little girls with curls in Swift Current will be glad to hear. Cskt. 1879. Moose Jaw Division — Bro. Joe Cavanaugh succeeds Bro. R- E. Coons, relief dispatcher. Moose Jaw, ap- pointed third trick dispatcher at Saskatoon; Bro. J. M. Parmitier, relief dispatcher. Regina, appointed third trick dispatcher Moose Jaw. Our best wishes go with these brothers in their promotions. Bro. Boudreau has taken Metiskow agency on the Saskatoon Division, succeeded by Bro. King from Conquest as agent at Neville. Bro. Ivany returning after two month** visit to his home in Newfoundland report* the winter so severe and snow so deep that trains are not expeoted to be ruffling to some parts until spring. Bro. Inglis has returned to Outlook after spending ten days in Winnipeg. Bro. Maynard has gone into the chicken business at Morse. Caron, Parkbeg, Chaplin, Ernfold and Waldeck opened as night telegraph office* on the Swift Current subdivision in Febru- ary. to continue during the winter montha has given work to all our surplus and re- lief operators. Congratulations to Bra Rumbergir. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 495 Brldgeford, who has just returned from his honeymoon trip to Winnipeg, Vancouver and other points. Bra G. T. King passed away at the Gen- eral Hospital, Swift Current, on February 15th, after a short Illness following an oper- ation for appendicitis. He leaves a wife and four small children, also scores of friends to mourn his death. Burial took place at Swift Current and the casket, which was covered with flowers, shows the high esteem In which he was held. He was for- mer agent at Pambrun. To Mrs. King the telegraphers wish to extend their heart- felt sympathy. Our schedule committee convened in Mon- treal, April 6th, to open negotiations for a new schedule contract, the high cost of liv- ing compelling us to ask for an increase. The committee will no doubt advise us from time to time of the progress being made. We have a good, capable committee and it has our fullest confidence. Brothers having any items of interest for The Telegrapher kindly send them to the local correspondent on or before the 20th of the month. Cert. 3427. New York Central R. R., Div. & Electric Division — The annual election of officers, postponed for two regular meetings on account of non- attendance, took place at the regular morn- ing session March 10th. Bros. J. Holloran and C. E. Bell re-elected chief telegrapher and secretary respectively ; C. P. Johnson elected treasurer, vice R. J. O’Brien, who held the office for the past five years with honors. Chairman entertainment commit- tee, R. J. O’Brien, vice F. H. Lester, re- signed ; trustees, L. M. Brooks, vice R. J. 8tover, and M. Herschfleld, vice F. Eidt ; inside and outside sentinel, J. Oatls, vice I. Hooker. Our treasury of $600.26 shows a very healthy condition at the end of the term. Is it any wonder our side partners draw 72 cents per hour while we watchfully wait? Anything seems to be good enough when the sisters and brothers are not interested sufficiently at least to attend one of our reg- ular election meetings. There is considerable business transacted along the division that would be good mate- rial to work on in the meeting room could we but get It there. Sisters and brothers, get out to regular meetings when possible and be with us in all our work. We are desperately In need of a new pianist there. Will some sister or brother kindly accommodate us? Members of this division are requested to forward the correspondent, their ideas and opinions in brief, regarding organization, meetings, officers, wages, work, or nons ; in fact anything pertaining to our craft for publication in our journal in order to help the good work along, eliminating all unnec- essary topics, especially those that have long passed, before it is published, or we receive it "Bell," Cert. 2034. Ontario Division — Bro. Bowen, succeeded by Bro. Sheehan, has gone with the Franklin Automobile Company of Syracuse, getting #. better job. Others will shortly take other employment where pay and working conditions are bet- ter, and this division is already exceedingly short of men. Many are obliged to work overtime to keep things going. Bro. WaiTds, second "CQ" Tower, off sick, is being relieved by H. 8. Riker. A number of others who have been sick recently re- turned to duty. The local chairman requests that each of you make sure that your M. B. D. assess- ments are paid as you will not receive your card until squared up in both departments. You can save the Order expense, as well as a lot of office work, by looking after these dues on time. Brothers, if you wish a write-up please send me some news items. I cannot keep posted on both ends of the division without your help, and let each one of us try and land one or more of the few new ones on the division. "Dutch/* Cert. 2539. Philadelphia & Reading R. R., Div. 10, Members Division 10 : It is to be regretted that only 138 members of this division are members of the Voluntary Protective Fund. Statement. Amount contributed $160.00 Paid out 132.00 Balance on hand $18.00 Malcolm . A. McNeil, Matthew P McDonald, Audit Committee. Harrisburg Division — Harrisburg and Atlantic City being the only divisions represented In the March is- sue impels us to plead with the other six to wake up. It is gratifying to see the way the mem- bership on the lower end is responding to the Plumb Plan. We are now one of the active groups in the fifteen crafts reaching after closer affiliation and hope this wfll in the near future spread oVer the entire system. It is also encouraging to note the way the members are responding to our plea to wake up and use their strength polit- ically for their own interests. Reading and New York Division members In that territory are not taking advantage of the joint L*. V., C. N. J. and P. & R. bi- monthly meetings at Allentown. Not one P. A R. member at the March meeting; Digitized by Google

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496 The Railboad Telegrapher. very pleasing attendance of I* V. and C. N. J. members. Next meeting third Fri- day in May, 8 :20 a- m. and 7 :80 p. no.. Come around and help make them worth while. Harrisburg joint P. A R. and P. R. R. meet- ings, held first Tuesday in each month, also show an encouraging increase. Keep it up and do better. We are after the few delinquents on this division. Ctftmot understand why they are negligent. We should keep up-to-date if for nothing else but the wonderfully cheap in- surance. Forget self Interest and work for the benefit of all. Now more than ever we need a solid front. If we do not have that* next September we may rue it. Cert. 183. W. A Q. Division — Bro. O. F. Huy, 70 years and 8 months old. retired agent-telegrapher, of Lenharts- villfc, Pa., died suddenly of heart failure Fri- day. March 6th at 7 p. m., in his home. He was buried there March 10th at FTieden’s church. Bro. Huy, on this road since 1873, one of the oldest O. R. T. members on the system, leaves a host of friends .among the employes of this division. We extend our heartfelt and fraternal sympathy to the bereaved widow and family. A floral offering was sent as memento of our affectionate regard. This division now has 100 positions. 92 of the employes filling these positions are mem- bers. On March 1st only three had not paid up. This is gratifying. Cert. 293. Net o York Division — Every brother do his part and we will soon make this division 100 per cent solid. The O. R. T. is the only organization recog- nized by the fourteen other union crafts. We are all solid at Norristown except Donohue and Jones at ”NQ“ and Houpt at “SK.” Ed. Clark, first Byberry, is also among the nons. Bro. Wood, third "DK” Norristown, is try- ing out his new Indian. During the recent storms the Schuylkill flooded over its banks Into the cellar at Conshohocken. Broe. Neigut and Ferry are now in the market for a canoe as some of these nights they might have to paddle out through the window. A word occasionally from Bro. Royahn would do us a lot of good. Frank always had a message of cheer. Bro Swarthy, agent Hatfield on the sick list for almost a year, is not improved. We all extend our sympathy to his family. Bro. Geo. E. Arn, ten years on second “OD,” who took Recond trick signalman at "MA” Tower, Lansdale during the recent heavy snowfall, sprained the muscles of his ohest and was unable to go back to “MA” again after being off duty several days. Brothers, we don't want to wear these uniforms and should not have to pay for them out of our own pockets. Watch closely, get the train number and names of conductors taking orders over the phone and forward them to the local chair- man. Come out to the meetings the fourth Tues- day of each month at 1318 Columbia avenue, Philadelphia, at 10 a. m. and 8 p. m. Chet. 948. Delaware 4 Hudson Ry*, Dlv. 12. Pennsylvania Division — Vice-President Gutelius has deetded that Bro. Lynch goes back on 25 “J" office, his position when he entered the military serv- ice. denied him upon his return on aocoont of being held by Bro. Boles, an older man. This will place Bro. Dockerty on first and Bro. Loughney on second “OtT* Tower; Bro. Shea first on *'J,” and Bro. Frey on third “CJ.” leaving third Mooelc up for bid. Mr. Gutelius advises he will render a decision on Bro. Boles' right very shortly. Bro. F. E. Rosener, third Hudson, off sev- eral days on account of illness at home, re- lieved by an extra while enjoying the breezes at Miami Beach. Fla., and Bro. Hop- kins. first lever, same office, is earning “beaucQup francs” running a trl-weekly dance in a hall near there. Bro. Frey, third Moosic, Is back from a trip West, relieved by Bro. Devaney, and Bro. Lewer back to first there from *T>G” Dispatchers McLain and Lydon art back after several weeks' illness. Dispatcher Reirdon succeeds Night Chief O’Boyle, pro- moted to day chief, vice R. 8. Reid, assigned other duties. Bro. Powell, first Minooka Junction, visit- ing in Winton and Columbia Grove several nights, relieved by Bro. Law. Bro. Willis Moon, resumed at City Sta- tion after several weeks' illness, and Bro. McDonnell at first Carbon Street Junction after several days spent in Wayne County. Bro. McCarthy, Scranton ticket office, gett more “looks” from the fair sex than the official clocks. Watch the MVamps,” Mac, it's leap year, Bro. Powell and yours truly spent a day in Honesdale recently. A list of the "nons” and where employed will be furnished any member who will try to land them. There are only a few left Let's get them in. No reply why Mr. Berry, National Tower, don’t join. No news from the Nineveh branch for two months. Would like to hear from Bros. Crane and Mlchaela Drep me a few lines Local Chairman Griggs is the only one who sent me any items at alt Cost. 1027. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Tblegrapheb. 497 Virginian R. R., Dlv. 13. At a called meeting In Roanoke, February 21at, by General Chairman Bro. A. S. Max- son, of the Bewails Point Agency, repre- sented the Norfolk Terminal operators. The SewaUs Point Agency at the Naval Base was abolished March 1st, and Bro. A. S. Maxson displaced Bro. Morris on second Roanoke. At a recently called meeting of the Rail- road Telegraphers and Clerks of all roads centering In Norfolk, a social club was or- ganised with Bro. A. S. Maxson, permanent chairman, and Bro. T. I. Marks, secretary. The organization will be known as The Teleg- raphers' and Clerks' Club of Norfolk, Va. Bro. T. A. Wooding Is back on Victoria first, after ninety days' leave. Bro. C. E. Powers, first Carolina Tower, is In the hospital sick for nearly a year, was presented with a purse of $260 for Christmas by brother operators and other railroad friends. Bro. M. Q. Bullock has taken Meherrin agency, succeeded by Bro. W. E. Wright on third SewaUs Point. T. L. Marks, Cert. 66. Atlantic Coast Line R. R., Dlv. 15. Second Division, Montgomery District — Our last meeting held at Bainbrldge, Sun- day, February 15th, was very poorly attended on account of the extreme cold weather. Only nine members Including Bro. Adams from Waycross District being present. Local Chairman Stokes gave us a general outline cf the work being done by our general com- mittee and explained a few points of Inter- est in reference to the way some of the brothers regard our working agreement. It was decided not to have another meeting un- til warm weather, as most of the members have to travel quite a distance to be present. For thirty-three years the O. R. T. has been protecting the interest of the station agents and will continue to do so. Call the attention of any agent not now a member to thl& fact; also that It Is the only organization recognized by the Government Wage Board to represent the agents; and none of them wUl be so foolish as to Join any other order claiming to represent them. The "flu" has caused a great deal of chang- ing around In last thirty days. Ramer third closed several nights on account of no relief. Bros. McEachers, Prior, Johnson, Drew, Walker. Bailey are all sick. Bro. Horace had to double eighteen hours for several days. - Bra Barfield, second Ozark, was off re- cently looking after matrimonial affairs. T. Munn, Cert. 108. Savannah District — Bros. Davis and Jim Leigh were off sev- eral days on account of illness. Members should familiarize themselves more thoroughly with the agreement. Recent- ly several employes were found beginning work at nine a. m. The agreement provides the day shall begin at 8:30 a. m. If in doubt as to the proper interpretation of the con- tract, take the matter up with your chair- man. Jacksonville was honored recently by a meeting of the executive council of the A. F. of L. there. Understand this is the first time it ever met outside of Washington and New York, except for the purpose of trans- acting business necessary for the opening of an annual convention. Union men In this territory are eagerly awaiting the announce- ment of the time when they can listen to a speech by President Gompers, as well as the other prominent labor leaders of the com- mittee. When copying an order see that each one repeats it correctly. All wage earners especially all union men are being requested to place themselves in position to vote during the coming elections. If YOU have not done so, get right NOW. A wise man once said: “It pays to watch everybody, those who are honest may be careless." Bro. Daniel, Dale Tower, has requested six sets of application blanks, now watch the list of nons diminish. Nothing has been heard from Bro. Fuller recently. We hope he has by this time fa- miliarized himself with the intricacies of the machine. Cert. 45. Fayetteville District — We tender our sympathy te Bro. A. J. Todd and family in the death of his wife, March 3rd. The members In Rocky Mount sent a beautiful floral design as a token of their regard. The “flu” hit this district pretty hard and the men in a number of offices were obliged to double while others were 11L Ascertain if the new men working here are up-to-date. If not, advise Bros. Mason and Williams and start to work on them at once. The time has come when we must all carry a card and be able to back up our representatives with a 100 per cent solid mem- bership in an endeavor to get our wages up in class with other men in similar positions of responsibility. The one dollar a day for expenses now al- lowed regular men. when used for relief won’t pay for meals at the smallest place we are sent to. This should be adjusted in our next schedule. Please send me some notes by the eigh- teenth so I can arrange and get to St. Louis by the 26th C. A- B«» Cert 581. Digitized by Google

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498 The Railroad Telegrapher. We are again working for our original em- ployers, and business seems brisk. The Railroad bill went through, hence we will have to appeal to the New Board in Washington with all grievances. Its decision is not compulsory, and a strike may be called after it has passed on a question. It will, however, seriously affect one organization protecting or assisting another for injustices, as it too would have to take the same course. The organizations are however go- ing to give the law a fair and Impartial trial. You cannot make a man work if he don't want to, or if he Is so unjustly dealt with that his position becomes unbearable. The South Carolina delegation in Con- gress objected to the bill, and all except one or two voted against it. If we keep after the nons a couple of months more like we did in February, we will soon be "100 per cent SOLID." If you don’t know where they are located, ask me. Just a little personal help on the part of each member will work the trick. C. Bolick, L. C. Columbia District — Bro. Thompson and Wyatt, after serving in the S. A. L. office operated by the A. C* L. during Government control, are back in our freight station. Bro. Warriner, first Wadesboro Junction, still at Sanitarium, N. C., hopes to be able to resume work In a couple of months. Bro. Baltzegar, Dovesville, has withdrawn his resignation removing that agency from the bulletin. Bro. D. A. Berry, agent Mayesville, over- taxed his capacity trying to do three men’s work and is In bed as the result. Every agent should put in his eight hours and quit, whether the work is up or not. No one available to relieve him and Bro. McNab has the whole shoots on his hands. Bro. Newman relieved by Ivey at Simms Is filling in Sumter second, vice Bro. Davis, gone with the A. T. & T. again as repeater operator at Denmark. Maxton opened up with the old original force, Bro. McLean from Cheraw, ticket agent-operator, now on bulletin; Bro. Car- rowan back as agent, Bro. Carrowan on extra list, also back. Bro. Mclnnl8, Lamar, is on sick list, after trying to do three men's work. Bro. Ham is relieving him, assisted by Bro. Dewees from Division 62. Bro. Smith, Barnwell, was off a few days recently, owing to sickness. Bro. King Is back at Lucknow after a siege with the "flu." Jack Collier, formerly at Orangeburg, back with us is at Plnewood pending its assign- ment. \ Bro. White, relief agent, has been relieving Bro. R. V. Rlvenbark at Holly Hill for Are or six weeks. New members: J. C. Otwell, J. D. Taylor, Red Springs; C. D. Grant, East over; J. R. Farley, Creston; M. F. Dukes, Cheraw, and E. J. McNab. Mayesville, S. C. New men employed: Dukes extra, Barn- well and Collier, Plnewood. "Z.” Michigan Central R. R.f Dlv. 16. Northern Division — Bro. Ball, first Mackinaw, off sick, relieved by Bro. Ausum, and Bro. Bourassa, first West Branch, by Bros. Flynn and Adrian, working twelve hours; Bro. Meyer, third Pin- coning, off with the "flu," relieved by Bro. McC,alpin, second Linwood, who also fllllnf in on second there a few days. Bro. Hi Robinson, first Cheboygan, has our sympathy on account of the death of his father and sickness in home, and Bro. Jack Miller, second Water, relieved at Gray- ling second during the sickness and death of Bro. W. J. Miller. Mrs. Miller extends her thanks to the mem- bers and others who assisted her in her be- reavement, and Bro. Geo. Robertson wishes to thank the brothers for their kindness and assistance during the sickness and death of his wife. Sister Baxter, second Toplnabee, relieving on second Cheboygan, on account of the shortage of men, and second Indian River, Toplnabee and Waters closed. Bro. W. J. Cummings at Deward two weeks while Mr. Ross was getting married. Bro. Jack Yahr, extra, bid In Chesaninf third, vice Sister Mallette to Zilwaukee third, vice Bro. W. J. Nadeau, Zilwaukee to Gray- ling third, and J. W. Seeley to second Indian River. Bro. Nadeau relieved Bro. L. R. Por- ter, third Saginaw, while sick with the "flu.” Bro. Cumings is still working on back pay- rolls, shortage of clerks in timekeeper’s of- fice makes the work slow, but it is nearly finished. The brothers on the P. M. drew their back pay March 20th. Do a little "boosting" and quit "knocking.” The local chairman will he glad to inform you as to what is being done. Don’t Jump at conclusions until you get the facts from him. Ckrt. 68. Joliet Branch — Dispatchers Bros. Nickerson and Homan and Bro. Champ Clark, East Gary, were around amongst us .recently. Bro. J. Ashbum, Joliet, was a recent Ham- mond business caller. Bro. Frank Seibell, Joliet, is on the sick list, also Sister Study, Frankfort. Cert. 1601. Canadian Division — Bro. E. Bensette and Bro. J. D. Fowls*. East Windsor, Ont., htfve been promoted td Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 499 « operators and levermen, Tower No. 4, and Bro. Cousen has been transferred from Tower No. 1 to Tower No. 2, 12 to 8 trick. Cert. 1563. Pennsylvania R. R., Div. 17. Trenton Division — We are enter In* into a springtime which bids fair to be a most memorable one. A “commencement” period hera bouts, wherein “bondage” Is fast yielding to a visible prog- ress within the sphere of "industrial free- dom." During transition, it is imperative that a seriousness be present, which will enable tne use of better judgment, as issues may arise from time to time. Advances that have been made and the few desirable conditions now In evidence, have been brought about through the un- tiring efforts of the O. R. T. Nothing has been voluntarily granted and do not permit any person to deceive you on that point Glad to note the promptness in payment of dues for current term. We hope soon to have the few delinquents in proper har- mony. The "influenza epidemic" wrought havoc hereabouts recently, and claimed among its victims Bros. J. A. Villinger and Thos. Dean, both loyal members whose absence will be keenly noted. We sincerely regret to learn that Local Chairman Hendricks had a recent bereave- ment in the loss of his father. He has had a strenuous career since assuming the re- sponsibility of that office and is now deeply absorbed In the formation of a schedule which will mean much to us as well as the company. Stand firmly behind him. We are mighty fortunate In having a chairman so loyal and sincere that even the higher offi- cials of the Penna recognize the desirable qualities he possesses. Harmony and co- operation will be brought about only through the efforts of the O. R. T. headed by your local chairman. The craft has been aroused from their slumbers. Don’t sell your birthright for a mess of pottage. We are glad to find "Old Reliable" Bert Perry, South Amboy second, returned to us in health, after the siege he endured. Just so soon as schedule negotiations have progressed sufficiently, we hope to have meet- ings more frequent. When announced at- tend and present your grievances. Don't pa- rade them on the street corners. The rail- road officials are meeting your representatives in a sincere manner and they are following a diplomatic path, deserving the respect of every man represented by our committee. Be fair, fellow workman, and so labor with mind and hands that we will prove worthy of the respect shown us through our com- mittee by the management. We hope to have an instructive and ac- ceptable write-up in each issue. Our re- marks should not be taken too seriously in the personal respect, unless the shoe fits snugly. Cert. 711. West Jersey & Seashore Division — Our committee is at Broad street, try and get every delinquent to pay up and secure all the new members possible. Bro. George Nightingale has returned to duty after several weeks' illness. Bro. Lockton Burk, 6211 Walnut street, Philadelphia, Pa., has been sick a long time and will be glad to have any of the brothers come and see him. We hope for his speedy recovery. The schedule of relief operator on No. 2 territory has been canceled as many of the men did not want their dayB off. Get blanks from Bro. Peacock and sign up that non near or with you. Rate for April 69.50, May 68.50, which must accofh- pany the application. Cert. 74. "PO" General Office ( Relay ), Philadelphia— Local Chairman Cochran and Bros. Mit- chell and Walnwright have returned after a severe spell of sickness. Bro. Butler has secured apartments In "Philly." That ride to Wilmington, especial- ly during the recent storm when he had to come back to Philly because he couldn't get home was not very pleasant. Since the return of the railroads to private control, there has been more or less con- fusion around Philadelphia, which necessi- tated a new schedule. Some of the heaviest wires are the new ones to St. Louis, Chicago and Indianapolis, with whom we work di- rect. Our Federal wire "RG" Washington was recently abandoned, as was "PU" wire, busi- ness now goes via "H" Washington, Pitts- burgh and Norfolk. Bro. Leon Keene and his bride (nee Miss Jane Patchell, our former printer girl) spent their honeymoon around New York and other nearby points, and are now at home in Phil- adelphia. Congratulations and best wishes to the newlyweds. Bro. Eirich has solved the "house" prob- lem and will move shortly to his newly built home in Palmyra, N. J. We regret very much to hear of the death of Bro. Pallies* wife, and we extend our deepest sympathy to him and the family. Bro, Curl, "H" wire, is the proud possessor of an "ANNUAL." Let's all get one next time. Let me have some news notes, fellers, and help make our write-up bigger and better every month. Every little bit helps. Cert. 711. Digitized by Google

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500 The Railboad Telecbapheb. 9 Philadelphia Terminal Division — An apology id due General Chairman Me- Nell. Division No. 10, because of a misstate- ment appearing in the banquet write-up, March Issue. Bro. McNeil la accused of “abducting" sev- eral ladles and entertaining them on the roof garden. It was Bro. Robert McNeil of this division who should have figured in this episode for we know him, aad he don't mind when we get personal with him. We trust this explanation is satisfactory. An entertainment and dance will be held at the Grand Fraternity Building, 162ft Arch street, Philadelphia, on Saturday evening, May ftth, for the benefit of Quaker City Telegraphers’ Club— recently organized, to be composed of members of P. & R. Division No. 10, B. A O. Division 83. P. R. R. Division No. 17. and any other members in Philadel- phia vicinity. This is a worthy cause and should have the undivided support of every member of the organization. The entertain- ment will begin promptly at 8 o’clock on the second floor and will be followed not later than 10:30 by the dance until 12 midnight. Valuable prizes will be distributed. The admission ticket will be fifty cents (50c), please sell all you can. to everybody, get an overflow crowd. Where you cannot sell a ticket for the dance, sell some for prize distribution. They are only ten cents (10c). Every brother Is urged to dispose of as many of these small ten to the book tickets as possible. If you have not already secured a supply of both, drop a line to Bro. E. L. Gulley, secretary, at 1531 North Wanna- maker street, Philadelphia, Pa., or you can get them from any member of the commit- tee. J. F. Dewey. A. D. Sheldon, C. J. Me* Ginley. R J. McAllister and J. Hutton. Mem- bers on other divisions of railroad can pro- cure their supply from H. Peacock, W. 1. A S.. Sam. Snyder. P. S. V. Division. Jos. Nuckles, Sunbury Divtslon, C. S. Melcher, Philadelphia Division. Bro. Hendricks. Tren- ton Division, Bro. Flaherty. N. Y. Division, I. A. Cochran, “PO“ General Office, Bro. Foley. Trenton Cut Off, Bros. Mahew and Quillan, M. D. Division and also Bros. Sam. Aiken, Bro. O. L. Farlow, P. & R. Division No. 10 will obligingly care for the sale of tickets on that system, and Bro. F. F. Sulli- van, Van Bibber, M. D., will also kindly care for the same on B. & O. Division No. 81. About the middle of April you will be read- ing this announcement and yet have nearly two weeks in which to dispose of the tickets. Kindly settle with the brother from whom you get them not later than May 4th, as much work Is in store for your committee at the eleventh hour. Please do your utmost as our struggle has been an up hill one, and you will be aiding us in getting a fresh start. Dear reader please contribute a few short notes for publication each month, from your territory or section of the division and help make this column Interesting. Don’t be particular about its appearance, for with the add of the printer we will do the rest It's still Hutton who is asking, and any time before the 20th of each month you can yet reach me at 183 Ardmore avenue, Ardmore, Pa., In time for publication in next issue. Is this sufficient 7 Try once. Attend you r meetings the second Tuesday monthly and learn what's being done for you at the Grand Fraternity Building, 1638 Arch street, Philadelphia, at 9:80 a. m. and 8 p.m. At the last meeting the time was changed from 10 to 9:30 in the morning to allow more time to handle the vast amount of business now In operation. Your organisa- tion is still vigorously legislating for you both In Philadelphia and In Washington. You are surely Interested — come out Perhaps our speed to not pleasing yoo— Well, we are making Just as much progress as all the other railroad organizations, and the secret is — be patient for diplomacy win not tolerate being rushed. Standardise your presence, truly 100 per cent patriotic. Why not — you’re the real trench operator. You can still secure membership applica- tion blanks from Bro. Guiley and he la ever eager and accommodating In this respect and he is well supplied with this special stock. You know the rest Why discuss it again. Even the officials are now discussing the subject on who belongs and who don't belong. Trusting that you will remember all of this, written for your edification, en- lightenment and the better work day, the curtain will once more be rung down. Jambs Hutto*. Division Correspondent Elmira Division — Sister Bowers. Rock Stream first was on the sick list two weeks. Sister Rutty, sec- ond there, took a trip to Washington re- cently. Bro. Smith, “YD," visited his home in Philadelphia for a week. Bros. Collins. McIntyre and Dunning are now copying in “AT." Had a fine turnout at the last meeting tn Elmira. The sisters provided an excellent lunch and promise to repeat it at future meetings. Better coroe. I am working second trick and have no opportunity to get over the division after news. Received no news from the South End this week. Cmtr. I860. Schuylkill Division — Our last meetings, March 19th. wore very Interesting and the reports of the way tbs members were paying up were indeed gnth* tying, Digitized by Google j

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 601 The men In "RD” Reading are still trying to do the work of two men. but we hope more offices will be opened shortly and the other set of dispatchers put on again as for- merly. There la quite a sentiment for the relief schedule to be put back. It would give the extra men more work and reduce the work in the division operator’s office to a mini- mum. Members are urged to come around our meetings and also to the P. & R. meetings on Franklin street, Reading, Pa., the third Thursday in each month, just a day ahead of ours. The time we give to these meet- ings is well spent and will be profitable to all Join and urge others to join the Plumb League, which will play a very important part In our future political life. Become familiar with the cause that Interests all the people. Cbrt. 676. Bro. Roberts, home from Philadelphia, re- ports progress on the working schedule be- ing promulgated for the Pennsylvania at that place, and the largest paid-up mem- bership ever known on this system. We must line up the few delinquents who through qeglect have left their beneficiaries as well as themselves without any protec- tion. If you don’t know where they are located, ask and get busy on them, also on the few none, and make our division 100 per cent. The Pennsylvania system has been divided Into four regions, putting us in the Central Division moving the headquarters to Union- town and adding the Southwest branch, making our division much larger. Manager Sargent, in division operator’s office, has taken a similar position in the same office on the Pittsburgh Terminal, suc- ceeded temporarily by Train Dispatcher Murphy. Train Dispatchers Cook, Kaven and Por- ter, who stay on Pittsburgh Terminal, will move Into Pennsylvania Station, all other dispatchers to Union town. Bros. M. S. Mullin and V. A. Spesak are recovering from an attack of pneumonia, latter just out of the hospital ; Bro. T. P. Irwin from an acute attack of appendicitis; Sister Verna Kunkle from the effects of the •'flu.” and Sister EL H. Banks is on duty again after several weeks’ Illness. Bra H. C. Henne is relieving on the North Ead and Bro. J. L». Boyle in the division operator’s office. Bro. F. Donahue is now in the signal de- partment : EL C. Whitsel Is back after work- ing two years in the mines, and Mansell and Hytracek. furloughed, are on extra. See that they keep their promises to line up. We expect a few more offices on the Red- stone branch to be reopened on account of greatly increased business. I am contemplating a change and hope you will give my successor the same as- sistance you have given me, for which I thank you. and also Bro. H. E. Rhydderch for the write-up from the South End this month. W. R. Jonbs. Cert. S81. Pittsburgh Terminal Div.t Pan Handle Diet. — The Carnegie O. R. T. Club, of which Bro. C. M. Carlson ts president and Bro. J. F. Depoe Is secretary and treasurer, meets second Wednesday of each month in the Hustler Building, Carnegie, Pa. Bro Dingeg, Pittsburgh Terminal, was a recent visitor, and says the club Is a live wire where all Issues of the organization are dis- cussed and a general line-up given on divi- sion happenings. Initiation fee 60 cents and dues are 10 cents a month. Any members of the O. R. T. around the Terminal can join. The newly established terminal which takes In part of Monn.. Pittsburgh. Pan Handle. Ft Wayne and Conemaugh Division, making a belt line from Conway to Pit- cairn. via Monn. Division, is a great help to keep the chairman in touch with his membership. Once things are settled we will endeavor to have regular meetings in Pittsburgh once a month. Until further ad- vised send notes to Bro. J. R. Dinges, Jr., 7051 Bennett street, Homewood Station, Pittsburgh, Pa., not later than the 20th of each month. Brothers, kindly send me some items If you want a write-up. Pan Handle Bide Notes — The nons on this side are third trick ”CH” Carnegie, first trick "SY” Scully Yard Block and message operator, second trick. New members : C. F. Rod an. Resigned : Bro. W. J. Brown, gone with Bell Telephone Co. The telephones are being Installed out this way. much to our disappointment, but we will try to do our work just as well as we did with the Morse. Let our motto for this year be u8tay or - ganiaed and swat the non.” Everybody get a new member as long as there is one to get Pittsburgh Division. Lines East — Sister Shannon is with us again, now on third “TTF.” ”OD” message office is almost a thing of the past. Most of the telegraphers are in "On." now with the new Terminal' Division. "OD" will soon be a memory to the boys on this end. J. R. Dinobs, Jr., Cert 370. uQO” Relay, Pittsburgh , Pa. — This has been made a larger office. Sev- eral new wires having been installed to take Digitized by Google

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502 The Railroad Telegrapher. care of the new territory absorbed by the Central Region, of which this is a part. Four operators were brought over from “OD,” the P. R. R. general office east Traffic Chief Farrar, who has been off sick some time, has our best wishes for his early recovery. Bro. Dillon extends his thanks to the em- ployes of “GO” for their kindness to him during his four weeks’ illness. Local Chairman Clifton resigned on March 11. He took the office when the outlook was anything but encouraging, and by his untiring efforts succeeded in making it 95 per cent. We do not know where he is going, but we do know that wherever he lands his ability as an organizer and his farsightedness in handling affairs pertaining to the welfare of the Order will be readily recognized by the members into whose dis- trict he locates, and no better man could be selected to look after their welfare than he. His pleasing personality and strong per- sonal magnetism will make friends for him anywhere. His frankness and honesty won for him the admiration of not only the oper- ators but the management as well, and we wish him every success. Bro. Chaa. J. Cone, who succeeds him, has appointed Bro. W. G. Sprague to fill the vacancy on the Board of Adjustment, made by Bro. Clifton’s resignation. The committee has the organization working in perfect harmony and Chief Operator Por- ter stands ready and willing to co-operate with them. All the members in “GO” have renewed their cards, showing that they appreciate what is being done for them. It is the sincere desire of our new local chairman to promote a truer feeling of brotherly love, not merely within our ranks but for all our fellow workers with whom we come in daily contact If you can do nothing else, think of your companions lov- ingly, for the loving thought of a friend is an angel of God sent to carry a benedic- tion to the souL Cebt. 7611. Cincinnati Division and C. L. & N. Ry. — Bro. Payne bid in second Yellow Springs, succeeded at Florence by Bro. Randall, and he on third Glade Run by Bro. Chambers, succeeded on second by Bro. Negus, and he on third “WX" Tower by Bro. Strobrldge, sec- ond "WC” Tower. The boys appreciate this system and no complaints are being made as in former out-of-date methods and rules. Much sickness has prevailed among the brothers and their families during the past tew weeks. Bro. Lambert. “BD” Tower, relieved Bro. Burba, agent West Jefferson, several days recently while he was ill. The boys have shown fine spirit in secure ing up-to-date cards. Stick to your own job, brothers, and play “safety first” every time. “Jos/* Bro. Lewis, Centerville agency, and Bro. Stewart were off recently with Influenza. Bro. Gard, Mason agency, attended the recent victory reunion Scottish Rite Masons. Cbbt. 8844. Bra Young, filling a vacancy in '*00" awhile, has returned to South Charleston. Bro. Tierney, second Xenia, on 80 days' leave trying out the Western Union man- agership at Kenton, O. We regret to learn that Bra Hughes and family have scarlet fever. Several reported delinquent have prom- ised to pay up. I can give you a list of the others if you will try to have them get up- to-date. Bro. Stone is in Washington attending the meeting of the wage committee. The brothers who have been given Bh> dents to be taught to become telephone oper- ators exclusively are to be congratulated in having them take out up-to-date cards aa soon as placed on the extra list. I wish to thank the brothers who assisted me 'with this write-up. Send your notes so I will get them by the 20th. J. W. Sink, Cert 8500, 816 High St., Xenia, a Louisville Division — Only a few brothers were present at the Columbus meeting, March 9th. Local Chair- man Hudson gave a talk and presented qb with our new schedule In book form. The brothers apparently seem to never make an effort to come out to the meetings. Remember the date wh6n you are notified. Come out to the next one and see what to going on. Bro. Weare, second Franklin, is on a trip West and along the Pacific Coast. Bro. Lind, third Waynesville, and Bro. H. M. Davis, third Garden, attended the re- cent state basketball tournament at Bloom- ington. Bro. “Fat” Harris, third Cornbrook, spent a few days in Hartsville recently. Bro. U. G. Sweet, first “GU” Tower, took his third degree in Masdnry In Scottsburg lodge, February 25, and was honored by visitors: Bros. Scott, first Chestnut Ridge* and Casey, first Christie, Austin lodge; Bro. Hougland, third “GU” Tower,” Vienna lodge, and Bro. J. A. Ferguson, third Caney, accompanied by Claude Bollinger, Henry- ville lodge. Bros. T. J. Stout and ES. Hemphill, fir* and third Edinburg, helped to put on tb« 29th degree Scottish Rite at IndianajAU* last state class. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 503 Bro. Gray, second Crothersville, on two weeks' Texas trip, Bro. Jones relieving. Bro. Heeb, relieved by Bro. Hinshaw on third Shelbyville, took Dupont agency dur- ing Bro. "8lim” Cravens’ illness. Bro. Castetter bid in “AY” Tower third. If any of you agents need assistance Local Chairman Hudson will be glad to ren- der it Thanks to Bro. U. G. Sweet /or notes sent me for this write-up. Would like more of you to send me a few each month. H. M. Davis. Cert. 2797. Louisville Terminal — Bro. Loomis, car clerk, doing clerical work in general superintendent’s office, In- dianapolis, relieved by Bro. Glen Vest; Bro. F. D. Smith, second tableman, and Bro. P. E. Prather, second leverman-operator “DS.” Locfl Chairman Hudson relieved by Bro. W. E. Davis while on committee work ; Bro. Stader on third “NA.” Bro. Wilkerson, while visiting relatives at Idavllle, relieved by Bro. Handerzahs, who previously relieved Bro. W. W. Davis, “BO” while sick. The remodeling of “AD” Tower has great- ly improved working conditions there, giv- ing more space and light; the switches are thrown by levers from inside the office, dis- pensing with the inconvenience of running up and down the track. Extra operators should learn the terminal work and be able to relieve us. Bro. Higgins, formerly at “AD,” is now with the Missouri Pacific. W. E. Davis, Cert. 3623. E. A A. Division — We regret to announce the death of Bro. Joseph Mortimer, third “KO” Tower, *Sharps- vllle, at his home in Transfer, February 28th, following a few days’ illness with grip and pneumonia. Bro. Mortimer was a high- ly respected citizen, a member of the Bap- tist church, O. R. T. and I. O. O. F., and his death has caused sincere regret. Funeral services held from his late residence Mon- day, March 1st, was largely attended by our members and floral tributes were sent by them, the Clerks' Union and many others. Bro. Staernow has bid In third “KO” Tower, vice Bro. Mortimer deceased. Bro. Bishop is relieving Bro. Bitner. first “JU” Tower, three months, on a trip West. Bro. Slough has returned to third Lock- wood after three months’ absence. Sister DeDonough is relieving Bro. Mahan, first Bristolville, owing to the illness of his family. Bro. Vance has returned to first Warren after a sick spell, and Bro. R. S. Fisk there has taken a sixty days’ leave. Bro. Sedgwick is back on first Edenburg. Re and his family have all been sick. Bro. Knierman, after recovering from an attack of “flu,’’ relieved Bro. Robertson, Llnesville second, off sick. Bro. “Bob'* Ran- dall is relieving Bro. Hochadel, agent Al- bion, also on account of slcknesa Don’t allow the conductors and engineers to come Into your offices and call up the dispatcher on the phone. It was not put there for that purpose, and the dispatcher does not want to be bothered listening to their troubles. Le's put our division up to the one hun- dred per cent mark. We have 162 opera- tors on the division and 156 of them are member*, If you have a non working with you send his name to our chairman and keep after him until he gets in line. Cert. 3602. Zanesville Division — Bro. Bott returned to third “FA” Cabin after being off two weeks. Bro. Gadd, first “DO,” copying In second “X” a few days. Bros. W. S. McKinney, second New Lex- ington, and P. M. Jones, third Spangler, are back to work after several days* illness. Bro. E. D. Birkimer relieved by Bro. C. F. Ater owing to the illness of his wife and child. Bro. Dunford, Amanda, on account of sickness, relieved by Bro. O. D. Brown, who also relieved Bro. O. G. Ballou, first “FA” Cabin, a few days on account of the illness of his wife. Keep after the nons and don't let up until they join. I have not as yet received any news from you boys along the line. We cannot have a write-up each month unless you send In the items. We are as big as anyone else and should be represented. Cert. 8926. Marietta Division — Bro. W. H. McFadden’s brother Ellis died recently from injuries sustained while coasting at school. Bro. Robinson, Belie Valley, was called to Warner recently owing to the death of Mrs. Robinson’s father. Bro. M. Mason, Cambridge shops, died February 10th. A nice floral design was sent to his wife by the members of the O. R. T. The relatives and friends have our sympathy in their bereavement Bro. E. M. Lease is convalescing after an operation for appendicitis in Union Hos- pital, Dover, Ohio. Bros. O. C. Miller and W. H. Lease of Bethel, and Bros. G. M. Wil- son and R. H. McPherson, “PY” Tower, are back at work after a siege with the “flu.” It is now Bro. A. H. Samples of Strangs. Application secured by Bros. Hagan and Pennington, *GR” Cabin. Bro. Kennedy, Byesville, relieved a month by Bro. Dick Warren, who was recently married. Congratulations. A. W. Sperling, “WF” Tower, Neweom- Digitized by Google

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504 The Railroad Telegrapher. erstown, was recently retired on a pension after 45 years’ service. Keep after the few nons. Let's make the division 100 per cent stronger. Wish to thank all who sent in these items, especially Bro. Penn.ngton, and hope for your continued co-operation. Ckbt. 3629. Columbu 9 Division — Each office has been sent a copy of our schedule made from the proof. Any mis- takes in rates will be corrected in the other ones. Anyone who has not received a copy please advise me and I will send you one. You never had such privileges as 4hi8 be- fore, and would not now were it not for the loyal O. R. T. members with up-to-date cards in their pockets, enjoying freedom such as never before. Try to get in the few remaining nons and line up the delinquents. Our present agree- ment expires Sept. 1st and our success in getting our new one rests on every one of us. Paid up cards is the only way to help. Nons and delinquents only hinder. Read the constitution and become familiar with the way to handle a grievance, also as to whether you really have one or not. When bidding on vacancies, mail me a copy of your bid for filing so as to be able to correct any mistakes that might occur. I thank you all for your loyal support in the past and ask that you continue the good work, sending me any news of inter- est to the others on the division not later than the 15th of each month. P. L. Martin, L. C. "DK,” Columbus. Ohio — Bro. Ratsenberger is now with the Asso- ciated Press at East Liverpool. He carries a card for 1920. Since the headquarters for this territory moved to St. Louis. March 1st, in addition to the regular force, one of the regular second trick men doubles through on third every night, and Bros. Res s and Carroll double all day on the St. Louls-Indianapolla circuit Bro. Martin was In the other day and all are now paid up except twtr. Several of the married brothers had the new experience of making out an income tax blank this year, due mainly to the money we received for the meal hours which were taken up to July last year. Bro. Albright, who has Just finished build- ing a house, can give anyone who desires or wishes to become contractor a few pointers. Cbrt. 4942. Toledo Division — Bro. Rocky, third Chatfleld, relieved by Miss Bonner, of Columbus, several weeks on account of himself and familr having the "flu." "BN” Tower, second, closed several days I owing to the scarcity of operators. I Bro. H. E. DesG ranges, second Chatfleld, 1 took a trip to New Washington, Sunday, March 7th, in his "flivver" and returned bjr taxi, "Uzsie" laid up for repairs. Dispatcher Burkett, trying out third Power job in General Superintendent's office, put , third "Q" up for bid, and Bro. Bordtner oo j as extra dispatcher. New Division Superintendent's office cre- ated at Mansfield, call for telegraph office, "KC" former Toledo Division. Dispatcher Bassltt on first Power job. Bro. Collins from "Q" Toledo Is there temporarily. Brothers and Sisters, when delivering or- ders, best mark on envelope what ones they contain to be on the safe side. Several cases of doubt lately with no good proof. Local Chairman Retnman, of Tiffin, was a business caller at Toledo recently. Big changes anticipated for Bucyrus Yards, since the road was restored to private own- ership. Several of the brothers have been mak- ing regular trips to the "Army" store at Toledo. Bro. Tobin, of "NW" Tower, must be going In the blanket and bacon business. That’s one way to hit old H. C. L. Cert 1971 Richmond Division — Let us back up our local chairman with a demand for other important concessions which we are justly entitled to such as an- nual vacations with pay (that we used to enjoy) and time and one-half for Sundays and holidays. If you cannot attend the meetings, advise the loc^ chairman of any grievances you have or anything else he should know about setting forth your views and he will bring the matter up. The few delinquents on schedule positions are paying up and we hope to soon have a clear slate. Five of them are not now in the service. Watch the new men, If they are not mem- bers. secure their applications and send them with the required fee to Local Chairman Tay- lor. Give him their standing as soon as they arrive. Also advise him of any viola- tions of the schedule. Close observance of all the rules will greatly aid our committee to secure a revision. Bro. Berger, returning home from Wayne- trace on his "Old Indian," mixed with i buggy and both were wrecked. Fortunately, neither he nor the occupants of the buff? were seriously Injured. We hope to have General Secretary end Treasurer Rawlins at our April Riobnw** meeting which will likely be In tbs mo* lng. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 505 Bro. Borum off a few days with “flu” waa relieved by Bro. Tyner. Don't forget to send me the news. Cert. 4373. Logansport Division — Bro. P. G. Buck, second Star City, died March 4th, of pneumonia, after a week's illness. His loss will be keenly felt by all the boys on this division. His bereaved family has our sympathy In their great loss. Bro. Stephens, “RS” Tow$r, succeeds Bro, Buck, deceased. Bro. Myers, first ”BR” Tower, returned March 6th, relieving Bro. Field, who relieved Bro. Sprague, first Gas City Tower, while off with the “flu.” Bro. McDonough, first “Mr* Tow^r Marion, is back after a long siege of the “flu,'' re- lieved by Bro. Sullivan, formerly of Division 40. who also relieved Bro. Crawford, at Good- land, a week. Others down with the “flu” were: Bro. Baker, Bunker Hill, relieved by Bro. Beckley; Bro. R. M. Hall, Bethevan, and Bro. G. Li. Pumroy, relieved by Bro. G. Fall; Bro. Kroeger relieved Dispatcher Creswan. Bro. Taylor, third “NA” Tower Maynard, sprained his shoulder the night of March 9th, and was relieved by Bro. A. R. Russell. Bro. Kelly, Anderson ticket agent, visited C. W. office March 14th, and reported he would be ready to pass the cigars out imme- diately after Easter. The^big doings will be at Walton, Easter Sunday. V. N., Cert. 4076. Indianapolis Division — Brothers, if you want to knbw who persists in staying out, I will send you their names or you can secure them from the local chair- man. Plnd out who they are and give them no rest until they join. Remember, “No cord, no favors .“ Inform the trainmen who they are and let them act accordingly. Bro. Ralph Glrkln, third Vincennes, was off a few days recently attending the funeral of bis father-in-law who dropped dead while on hla way from Memphis, Tenn.. to Vin- cennes to visit Ralph*. Our sympathy Is extended to Ralph and wife, also to Bro. A. J. Blcknell and wife, owing to the death of Mrs. Bicknell's father. Bro. J. B. Abrell was also off a few days attending the funeral of a relative, and Bro. A. D. Howard attending the funeral of his grandmother. We have been informed that Bro. Mem- phis Axsom. first Bash rod. has been proposed to and has the matter under consideration. Mrs. Clara Fusselman wishes to thank all those who so generously helped her. Owing to Government regulations and scar- city ef print paper, the editor advises that he can net prist “Assignments." “In Memo- rlaros.” “Cards of Thanks,” and “Vacations.” “Births,” “Marriages” and “Deaths” should be written on separate sheets, with full names and initials in order to Insure prompt attention and Insertion in the “Per- sonal Mention” column. F. D. Davidson, Div. Cor. Michigan Division — Sister Lacey was relieved a few days by Sister Shimer on second “BO” Cabin. Bro. A. G. Barnett is back on first “BO” Cabin, after a siege of the “flu.” Sister Shimer relieved Bro. Taylor, sec- ond Monson, a few days. Bro. Moulton, who went to “NM,” was relieved at Lakeville by Mr. Parrott, who also relieved Miss Cook, third Bowers, while she was getting married. Mr. Woods from Browns Valley bid in first Hatch. Brothers, see that he gets an up-to-date card now. He is the only non on first trick on the Indianapolis end. also keep after the few other nons and delinquents and give them no rest until they Join or line up again. If you don’t know where they are located, ask your local chairman. Bro. Edwin Flook, Cert. 7842. wishes to thank the members of this division for the beautiful floral offering presented at the late bereavement of his mother. “F. A.,” Cert 6536. Chicago Terminal Division— The newly organized Pennsylvania brought general offices here March 1st for the North- west region, making many changes in our department. Bro. Warden, from ”OD” is on first; Bro. Peters from “GO” and Bro. Hand- schy, from “GK” on second and Bro. Gapron- grl on third "GF.” general relay office, with some of the boys from "XN" and “GB” help- ing out by working overtime. Bro. Mander Is on first, Bro. Pash on second and Bro. O’Malley on third “WR,” the new General Superintendent’s office, until It is settled whether this shall be permanent or tem- porary. Bulletin on new jobs was annulled on account of failure to include the G. R. & I., and not properly stating how many jobs were open on each tour of duty. Bros. Carr and Holsclaw are working sec- ond and third in “XN” relay, being relieved by Bros. Poots and Mann at “OD.” Bro. Kanally, "NY” Fort Wayne, with the other members of the Pastime Five bowling team grave us a pleasant call while passing through on their way to Peoria to attend the American Bowling Congress. Bro. Taylor is relieving Bro. Handschy, on first "GK.” Bro. Peterson has gone to California for a month. Most of the brothers and the members of their families who have been confined to their homes with the "flu" have recovered and the boys are back on their jobs. We regret to report the death of Bro. B. B. Epstein, Feb- Digitized by Google

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506 The Railroad Telegrapher. ruary 20th, who had almost recovered from an attack of the “flu," but fell striking his head against the bath tub and died from a fracture of the skull. He is survived by a widow and a year-old baby boy. They and the other loved ones have the sincere sym- pathies of all of “Benny’s" fellow workers. The regular monthly meeting held Mon- day night was a good one and well attended. Local Chairman Leslie, presiding. Local Chairman Herron, M. C. R. R. terminals, gave us a splendid talk, and we also had good addresses by Bros. Gilchrist and Pum- phrey. The regular meeting nights are the third Monday evening of each month in Chandler's Hall, Seventy-first street and Cot- tage Grove avenue, all are urged to attend that can and voice your opinion of affairs of the day. If you can't get a “kick" in your own neighborhood, come out to our meetings and make one there. Cert. 2522. St. Louis Division — The Joint meeting at Terre Haute Satur- day, March 18th, was well attended. Many coming a long distance. Chairman Ed Whalen, Big Four, who is also president of the Terre Haute O. R. T. Club, called the meeting to order and the following club officers were elected: Bro. E. H. Henderson, Penna. Lines, president, by an unanimous vote; Bro. James Scott, “Big Four," Bro. Taylor Allen, C. & E. I. and Bro. Blythe, C. T. H. & S. E., vice- presidents, and Bro. John Archer, Penna. Lines, secretary and treasurer, by a ma- jority vote. The newly elected officers Immediately took charge of their respective positions. Chairman HIndmarch, Penna. Lines West, delivered a forceful and pleasing address, speaking at length upon the various matters pertaining to our future schedule negotia- tions. In which we are all greatly interested. He also spoke on current problems now con- fronting us and is to be commended for the permanent stand he has taken on these matters. Let us all encourage him in his work. Bro. Whalen thoroughly explained recent railroad legislation and other matters di- rectly affecting us. He also went into detail relative to the recent labor conference in Washington. Chairman Powell, C. T. H. & S. E., also spoke on the new railroad bill. Bro. Clifton, former assistant chairman, who recently resigned from Pittsburgh, was also with us. Bro. E. J. Bolin, third “EY" Tower, has moved from Terre Haute to Seelyville. He Is being relieved by Bro. Latta, while he re- lieves Bro. Ray on second, who succeeded Bro. Archer, third Farrington, resigned. Bro. Albert Mason is back at Seelyville agency after a seige with the “flu," also Bro. R. C. Siddens, back on third Greencastle. having been relieved by Bro. R. W. Baldwin; Bro. O. M. Coffin, second Fillmore, was re- lieved by Bro. Wiseman, Highland, and Bro. Hopkins, first Summit, ten days by Bro. Loer, our new member; Bro. Tholman, agent Montrose, is also a new member. Bro. Guy Nichols, second Seelyville, re- lieved seven days by Bro. R. W. Baldwin, from Greencastle. Bro. C. R. Shortridge, Coatesville, was re- lieved several days by Bro. Steward, seoond there, owing to the Illness of his little daugh- ter. Bro. Tony Valentine, second “DS," bid in second “SO" Relay. Bro. J. W. Esterbrook, second East Tarda on second Union Station, relieved by Bro. Fogle. Bro. Conanster. third “K" Cabin, is in the new office recently opened in St. Louia A large number of telegraphers attended the funeral of Bro. Gaston, third Browns- town, accompanying the body to its final resting place at Vandalia, I1L J. C. Hanks, agent at Martinsville, m. for many years, died at his home there Sunday. March 14th. He was one of the oldest agents in the Penna. service. Bros. Germain, Vaughn and several others from this end attended {iis funeral. Harmony. KnightsviUe and Staunton are all now eight-hgur agencies, paying consid- erable more money than heretofore. Soma one get the application of Agent Somm at the latter point Chairman HIndmarch has mailed a copy o* our schedule to each office. Leave them where all three men can see them until he gets enough copies to supply each individual Bro. Miller, Terre Haute, is relieving Bro. Freeman, second KnightsviUe, off sick. Bro. Keeler, second Brazil, visited his fora at Vandalia, HI., several days recently. Remember our meetings in Terre Haute every second Saturday of each month and make every effort to attend, also to line up the few none left. If you don't know who they are ask me. E. H. Henderson, Cert 2886- St. Louis Middle Division— Bros. E. E. Brasel and G. W. Moore, Casey: W. A. Smith, Greenup and J. E. Reynolds, TeutopoUs, latter relieved by Bro. Temple* ton. attended the funeral of Bro. Theodore Gaston at Vandalia, February 29th. Bro. Claude Vickery, relieved at Casey. by Bro. Moore and Bro. Taylor by Bro. M®®* at Liggett, several days. Cibt. 2826- St. Louis Division , West End — Nine new positions were reoently pi***1 on bulletin in “GM" General Office. St Mo. Bro. Weaver baa gone there peodtof digitized by I

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 507 bulletin, relieved by Bro. Surber at East St. Louis freight office “DE,” and he on first '*AD** Tower East St Louis, by Sister Tenny- son. Bro. Bill Coffey has also gone to “GM," relieved on Vandalia third, by Bro. L. N. Henderson. Bro. Ingram, second Rose Lake, who bid In second "AD” temporary later went to “GM” St. Louis second, pending bulletin, re- lieved by Bro. R. S. Pryor on second Rose Lake; Sister Belle A. Lytel, on first Rose relieving Bro. W. A. McCracken, who has opened up a dentist office in Greenville. We hope the sisters and brothers will patronize hlmT Bro. Suehlman, third Collinsville, was re- lieved by Bro. Moore, extra, Casey. Bro. Templeton is a new addition to Division 17. General Chairman Hindmarch was back on the job several days. It sure sounded natural to hear “Hiney” on the ’phones, and Morse wires. He was relieved by Waldrip, later by Extra Loar from Altamont, whose appli- cation has gone in. Bro. N. E. Browning, first St. Jacob, re- lieved by Extra Clair. Bro. W. P. Miller is back on third For- mosa, relieving Bro. B. J. Koonce, who went back to second “AD,” East St Louis. Bro. Donaldson has gone to Texas, owing to the health of his wife. He was relieved by Bro. E. E. Muller, from Vandalia. Bro. Ted Guenneyweg, second St. Jacob, ■pent Sunday recently at his home in Troy. Bro. P. L. Pilcher, from McKeen on middle division, bid in Brownston third. Bro. Glen Bailie, third ”DS,” Union Station, Terre Haute, bid in second there, and Bro. Bolin third on “BY” Tower, East End, bid in there. Sisters and brothers, do not forget the meetings, second Saturday each month, 8:30 P- m., corner Fourth and Wabash, Terre Haute, Indiana. All members of the order invited. Cert. 2410. “Nickel Plate” R. R., Dlv. Ifc Cleveland Division — Bro. Ken worthy. Woodland ; Bro. Ellis, East Lorain, and Bro. Stalder, Palnesville, were off a few days sick. Bro. Mollenkop was off several days to build a home. Bro. Mayberry and family spent a few days recently with his parents in Conneaut. It is now Sister Lucas, Mentor, Ohio, and Bro. Seville, night ticket agent Lorain. Bro. Pearson, who wintered in Florida on account of his wife’s health, which is much improved, expects to return shortly. Bro. Wood, agent Avon, has purchased a farm and resigned. Bra Mackey, Cleveland, has purchased a big seven-passenger car. A number of our members have taken out yearly cards. Delinquents should remit their dues at once to Bro. C. O. Crisenberry, general secretary and treasurer, Knox, Ind., ana M. B. D. assessments to Bro. C. B. Raw- lins, St Louis, Mo. A number of the ftew positions of assistant and night ticket agents, made under In- terpretation No. 9 to Supplement No. 13, have been discontinued and we have carried it back to Washington in an effort to keep our schedule as it now stands. We should hear from this in a few days, also in regard to the vacation refused some of the mem- bers and the adjustment in wages. We have not had a write-up for several months because no one took enough inter- est to send in a few notes. Cert. 211. N. Y. C. R. R. Lines West, Dlv. 19. Alliance Division — We are glad to see Bro. Barnett, agent Plney Fork, back again after a lengthy ill- ness. Bro. J. B. Rickets, operator Plney Fork, and bride spent theif honeymoon at his old home in Trinway, Ohio, with his mother. Sister Ellen Carter relieved him. Bro. Williams has recovered from a siege of pneumonia Bro. Vale, assistant at "DV” agency, open since January, succeeds Bro. Ludlam, who goes to "HD" Alliance. Bro. Allen, Deerfield, on a trip to New York, was relieved by Relief Agent Rug- gles. Bro. Orwick was a recent Cleveland visitor. Bro. Baker has sold his property in New- ton Falls and invested in a new one. Palmyra Station was robbed the night of March 16th and considerable freight taken. Bro. Lloyd is out an auto tire. The North End don’t feel natural if more than six weeks elapse between robberies. We were glad to receive items from the South End. Please keep up the good work and let's have a write-up with more inter- est each month. Let’s get busy and line up the few nons. Dnr. Cor. Western Division—* Mrs. Vera Brandon wishes to thank the boys of the Western Division and Chief Dis- patcher E. S. Brink for their kindly assist- ance during her recent sorrow, owing to the death of her husband, Bro. H. E. Bran- don." Cert. 1144. N. Y., Ont A W. Ry., Dlv. 20. Southern Division — Bro. G. M. Bennett relieved at Rock Rift agency while transfer of agents was being made. Brother Conner Is back from the Wash- ington, D. C., meeting of general chairmen Digitized by Google

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508 Thb Eailboad Teleobapheb. called to confer on wages and working con- ditions. When a petition is sent over the division vote on the matter under consideration the way you feel about it and give the rest a chance to do likewise by passim? it along instead of holding it up. The treatment given the petition In reference to Rule 8 of our schedule on a part of the Southern Division and on the Scranton Division calls forth these remarks. The petition finally got through after considerable extra work, and we know about who was responsible for the apparent endeavor to hold It up. CSRT. 7. C., I. A w. R. R., Div. 21. Indianapolis Division — Bro. Brougher, second '‘CO** Tower, was off a few dayd on account of the sickness of his wife and child, relieved hv O’Keefe. Bro. Perkins, who bid in State street third, was relieved by Bro. Eubanks while moving his household goods from Hume. Hussey relieved Stephenson on "DI." who took car job while Bro.. Cummins relieved Second Trick Dispatcher Sappenfleld on Springfield Division. Bro. Cummins was later relieved by Stephenson on account of sickness, relieved by Bro. Eubanks. Local Chairman Trent, second Conn era - ville, on sick list was relieved by Robinson, and later by Hussey when he went with the Lexington Motor Company of Conners- vllle. Bro. Trent has served us as local chairman for several years and we regret to lose him., but wish him an abundance of success. Bro. Griffin bid In second Conners- vllle. leaving third there vacant Bro. Wright, second Oxford, has pur- chased a modern residence property near the depot there. Cxrt. 87. Mo., Kans. A Tcxaa Ry., Div. 22. "GO" Office — We were greatly shocked the morning of March 17th when No. 6. double heading, jumped the track, killing Engineer Doyle and Fireman Jones. The latter had just married our esteemed 'PBXM operator, Miss Tillie Schllnkmeir, on January 27th. We all extend our heartfelt sympathy to the en- tire family, to whom we sent a floral wreath for the funeral. Parsons Relay — “GO" office is again solid with exception of one. whom we are striving hard to land. Bro. Hayes, "GO." cut off on account of reduction in force, relieved bv Prymtre. bumped by Bro Garrett, from third ; Pace cut off hours abolished ; Sister Schetzer. cut off, went to C. A A. : Bro. Short’s 4 a. m. trick abolished, placing him on 4 p. m. ; Bro. Freeman’s 8 p. m. hours abolished, placing him on 10 a. m. to 6 p. m. Business rather slack owing to discon- tinuance of government reports. Bro. Bus well, our former messenger, now a real telegrapher with an up-to-date card, visited "GO" enroute to Mildred first re- cently. Bro. Wiggins (s sporting a new Veils. Bro. Gabriel relieved a few days by Bro. Morris, who Is breaking In on the wire chief job. Parsons District — Bro. Redding Is now on second Parker; Bro. Crouch at Bangor; Bro. Cobb, second Schell City, and Bro. Haynes at Walker. The latter relieved Bro. Bunn. North Yard, several days. The few nons are coming In gradually and the boys are paying up In fine shape. A. W. Hals Henrietta Division — Boys, we are steaming up. Let's keep on running and get the few nons at Gaines- ville and Bonita. Local Chairman Meyen has plenty of application blanks. It is now Bros. Mosser, agent Lindsay. Leo J. Weise. 9t Joe. and Sam Broad well, first, and Sister Mrs. Broadwell. second Nacona. and Taylor at' Jolly has his Nanki filled out just waiting for pay day. This makes Henrietta Division about 95 per cent Remember our motto "No card, no f avert” Belcherville third taken off recently. Bro. Robbins, irst Woodbine, was recently married. Congratulations and best wishes to himself and bride. Bro. Robbins, first, and Sister Cooley, sec- ond Woodbine; Bro. Lee, third Muenster; Bro. Thorpe, second, and Bro. Davis, third Bonita, all bought watches recently from ex- operator Joe Worthington. Sister Meerchant, third Gainesville, was off several days owing to sickness. First and second trick dispatchers Lad- caster and Rtgg were over the divlsisn on their days off gnd called on us. Boys, send me your notes as early &9 possible, so 1 oan arrange to get them ta St. Louis before the 26th and have a food write-up every month. H. G. Robbins, Cert, 764, Woodbine, Tex. C., M. A St. P. Ry„ Div. 23. Musselshell Division — Eighty -eight out of a possible ninety members — 100 per cent in sight If an help as they did during the recent drive. 8^*7 agent except one, every Mocseman. every lady ever foner except one. are now up to date. New brothers: McGill. Kinsey; man Vananda ; Wallace, Melstoae; Wensd. Lavlna ; and Sisters Lulu Me tael. BaffWB* and Miss Margaret Breslln. Plevna, all *rc thrice welcome. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 509 Our drive for a clean elate by February 29 resulted in all delinquents, with possibly one exception, lining up, and nons reduced to two. Several who had lapsed on M. R D. have renewed, and every new member took insurance, most of them the limit. They are realising that the good old M. B. D. insurance can't be beat. Our flower fund is coming on nicely, nearly every member contributing. All doubtless will do so. This fund will be han- dled systematically hereafter, the following committees having been appointed: Sick- ness and distress, Davies and Kemp ; West Sub, Mrs. Piggott and C. 1* Burke ; Middle, Mulloy and Pease ; East End, Chief Dis- patcher Kohih&se and Local Chairman Sas- ser ex-officio members; B. F. Johns, treas- urer, Miles City. Latter will please finance committees when funds axe exhausted. Brow Ayers, Mildred, bid in Westmore agency, one of the cleanest, best-paying Jobs on the division, vice Bro. Harper, deceased. Brow C. C* Johnson gets Mildred; Robinson, Thebes ; Clifford, Terry, and Sister Copp, Bundy third; Pease, third, and W. F. Cor- coran, second Forsyth. The boomer element are no more with us. It's settled down to old timers, steadies and home guards. Local Chairman Basser recently crossed the hot desert sands and is now a full- fledged "Shriner." There is pome complaint because we have had no write-ups recently. You were all warned — "No news notes, no write-ups.'* I am relenting somewhat, else this would not appear. Bro. John Cawley and wife of Roundup are sojourning In California, where they expect to remineece with former Superin- tendent Spencer. Something unusual In railroading is hap- pening on this division just now. At Saugus they are using boats to patrol the track, repair bridges and roadbed and telegraph wires; while at Dodge, some seventy miles away, they are trying to get several be- lated transcontinental trains through the ■now drifts with the aid of a couple of rotaries. Hie wife of Bro. C. C. Johnson, Mussel- shell, passed away recently after a lingering Illness from cancer of the rtoroach. All extend their sympathy to the brother and family In their affliction. Mrs. Farr made good her reputation of doing the right thing st the right time by visiting and taking flowers and good cheer to Mrs. Johnson, in Miles City Hospital, just a day or two be- fore she died. Such kindly, thoughtful acts help greatly to temper death's sting. The acting local chairman wishes to thank the entire membership for their assistance and "team work** In the recent membership diftvsu Wo were just an eyelash short of the goal at the finish. Let’s keep it up; make it permanent. Bro. Swan berg of H. & D. Division and his young wife are nicely located in Gage agency, while Bro. O'Connor is sojourning quite extensively on Pacific Slope and in Michigan. Bro. Otto Jaeger appears to have the foun- tain head of this oil region located right in the center of his homestead near Winnett and will ere long have "Coal Oil Johnnie" backed off the boards. These brothers have left us for greener fields and pastures new : Breckenridge, Aasve, Larson, Kramer, Andrews and Sis- ter Alice O'Connor. I think we will need about fifty relief op- erators when that back pay arrives, while we spend the money. The boys are not talking even Fords now; it's Pierce Arrows, Packard Twin Sixes, etc. Rumor has it that they are grooming Bro Ray Clevenger for a dispatcher. It’s to be hoped that Ray won’t bring in his "short stop" tactics into this work. More side tracks are needed on the East End. Don’t forget the flower fund, or sage brush and cactus may be your decorations some of these days. Drv. Cor. H, A D. Division — Bro. Albert Nelson, still taking treatment at Granite FallB Sanitarium, spent a few days recently in Montevideo. He looks fine, weighing 180, and says he never felt better in his life and is anxious Ufi get back, but the doctors advise him to stay several months more. Bro. G. C. Fauss from Granite Falls took his family to Ortonville to spend a few days with his folks. Bro. F. T. Koelfgren, third Minn Falls, while playing nurse at home recently, re- lieved by Landreau. With L&ndre&u and Torbenson in, Granite Falls, Minn Falls, Wegdahl and Monte will be solid. Bro. E. E. Wolfe, formerly at Ortonville and Montevideo, writes that he is now with the N. P. at Prosser, Wash. Bro. L. T. Wolf, second Ortonville, was relieved by Bro. M. M. Giles, a new man. Bro. E. L. Phelps relieved Bro. Zimmer- man on third Glencoe when the latter was called to Nedford, Okla., on account of the death of a brother-in-law. Bro. Stielow received word from a brother In Arkansas that the boys on the Missouri Pacific have received their back pay from October, 1918. We hope the paymaster of the Milw. will get busy and distribute ettrs. A "card of thanks" was received from Mr. and Mrs. Peterson, Granite Falls, for the beautiful floral pieoe sent them by Bro. Walker for their son Victor's funeral. Bro. Walker Is hack after entertaining the "flu" several weeks, relieved by Mar- Digitized by Google

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510 The Railroad Telegrapher. shall, who also relieved Bro. Hoppenstedt at Odessa while down with the smallpox. I have arranged for a meeting at Monte- video. Our next issue will contain more news and tell you what success we met with. Boys, boost the Plumb Plan League. You can send your subscription direct to Wash- ington, D. C., or to me. Otto J. Kolb, Cert. 1390. Iowa A Dakota Division — Bro. C. E. Powers, agent Ruthven, has re- signed. Bro. C. E. Maertz, second Spencer, is vis- iting at the old home in Minnesota. Bro. S. L. Swella, second Calmar, is on sick leave. Bro. C. C. Searls, agent Algona, and bride have returned from an extended honeymoon trip through the Western States. Congratu- lations. ' Understand Sister L. G. Fisher, who re- cently resigned, is to be married this month. 8Ister L. C. Brooks, third Algona, has re- turned from a month’s vacation. The Missouri River bridge at Chamber- lain took its annual spring rest and traffic was Interrupted for several days. We are still patiently waiting for the new rates under Interpretation No. 8, Supple- ment 13 to General Order No. 27 and the back pay. Cert. 3784. P. D. C. A Min. Pt. Divisions — I wish to cdll special attention to the list of nons that Bro. Derrickson sent to all members. Put trainmen next to them and keep after the “slackers" until they see the light. Palmyra second (new) bid In by Bro. Clancy. Bro. Ruben Porter, agent Sauk City, henceforth will be a tiller of the soil, suc- ceeded by Bro. O’Neill of Eagle. Wis. Bro. Brown, agent Woodman, has been re- lieved of the handling of C. N. W. Ry. ac- counts at that station, after giving that road free service during Government control (?). I have just succeeded in adjusting a case with the Express Company, which resulted In an agent receiving pay for a “call” to meet a train and handle express after his regular hours. If any of the other brothers have been instructed to meet trains after hours to handle express, demand pay for it. I would be very much pleased to receive a few items from some brother on the West End about the 20th of each month. You ought to do your part towards the write-up from this division. Please let me hear from you. The L. C. Racine A Southwestern Division — Bro. Carter was recently elected assistant local chairman. Remember, he can’t do it all. Keep him informed of any changes; see that every man is lined up, and make the division 100 per cent Bro. Jimmie Hansberry, who recently started a garage at Beloit relieved Bro. Overcash, agent Darien, while he was home with the “flu." Bro. Embick, side wire Be- loit, and Bro. Anderson, third Elkhora, off a few days on account of sickness. Bro. C. E. Embick relieved second trick dispatcher Bro. Thomas while he was off sick. Bro. Lawrence, third Rockton, on third Burlington Tower several days, and Bra Butler, Rockford, on second Beloit side wire a while. Bro. E. T. Smith succeeds Bro. Fergu- son, second Elkhom, who bid in third Free- port, vice Non Phipps. Bro. Dorchester is now with Henry Ford at Detroit. Bro. Beamish, first Racine, was off a few days recently, welcoming the arrival of a boy. Bro. E. E. Lawrence relieved Wickler, third Davis Jet, while acting as train di- rector. Beloit ticket agency is now included in the schedule. Floyd Davis, the agent will now join. m Cert. 1941. Mobile & Ohio R. R., Div. 24. St. Louis Division — We were all grieved to learn of the death of Bro. Charles E. Jones, third “JN,” at Jackson, February 14th, of pneumonia. A beautiful floral design was sent to the fun- eral at Berkeley, Ky., on February l«th Bro. Richardson succeeds Bro. Jones on third "JN." Bro. Smith, while off sick, was relieved by Bro. Richter. Div. Cos. Int’l & Gt. Northern Ry., Div. 25. Ft. Worth Division — Our editor advises, owing to government restrictions limiting the size of the jour- nal, he has discontinued publishing “Assifn- ments," “In Memoriams," “Cards of Thanks” and “Vacations" in the fraternal department and requests that “Births," “Marriages’* and ‘Deaths’’ be written on separate sheets with full names and initials In order to in- ure prompt attention and insertion in the “ Personal Mention ” column. It is argued (and rightly) that we *re aware of all changes before our TmaQU* pher is received. Our division came out Marsh 1st, 100 per ’ent strong, thanks to the untiring efforts >f all concerned. We have no drones in the hive; none holding out their hands for wtot we may be able to secure ; no dovbtbff Thomases “waiting for pay day" to line up. We are living in the twentieth century, and we are practicing what we preach. H should be no trouble to secure an aadten* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 511 Local Chairman Thompson, who recently underwent an operation for appendicitis, is crnvalesclng and will soon be on the job again. Bros. Ivey, Hallsbug and Slay Mart are on duty again, having outwitted the flu. E. C. Rogsrs, Cert. 852. Wabash Railroad, Div. 26. Peru Division — Bro. Smith, Logansport, was relieved by Bro. Wall recently, and Bro. Bob Collins, first Wabash, by Sister Mabel Tyler. The latter is off 90 days while visiting in Texas. Bro. Jno. Kieff, third Roanoke, was off 30 days recently. The membership was hit pretty hard last month, and I regret to report the deaths of Bros. E. W. Patrick, West Point; A. Webber, Buck Creek; Claud Smith, Peru, and Mr. W. R. Lennon, Butler. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family and friends of the deceased. The Nons are getting scarce. Ask your local chairman for the name of the few left on this division and “No card, no favors** until they join. Bro. W. E. Spencer, Cert. 278, Div. 26, writes from Clovis, N. M., having lain in bed over seven months, thanking the mem- bers of this division for the check he received on March 4, 1920. Decatur Div., 9th and ISth Districts— Local Chairman. Veech, first Bement, was relieved a few days by Bro. Furry, and Bro. Hannah, third Bement, ten days while visit- ing home folks at Homer, 111., by Bro. Ditzler, ex- man. Bro. Fohrell, Eds Jet., in Decatur Hospi- tal. having his Anger operated on which he injured last winter unloading express, re- lieved by Bro. Bourne, and Bro. Custer, agent. Palmer, taking treatments, relieved by Bro. R. S. Ditzler. Bro. Norvell, Granite City, looking over the Oklahoma oil fields around Tulsa, re- lieved a few days by Bro. Dooley. Bro. Slater, working in Brooklyn yards, Is settled with his family In St. Louis. Bro. Ricketts is on 90 days' leave. Bro. Quigley, Mt. Olive tower, refused third Manhattan tower because It had been bulletined as a position paying 52 Vi when it only pays 48 cents an hour. Bro. Walton and wife, Decatur, spent Sun- day recently in Alton visiting relatives. C*rt. 740. 8L Louis-Southwestern Ry., Div. 27. Tyler- Lufkin Branch— Kirby Post is now chief dispatcher at Tyler, and Bill Taylor from I. & G. N. night chief. “QN” Tyler abolished, vice Bassetts, gone with the L ft G. N. at Palestine. Bro. Jimmie Warren, message operator, ”QN,” Tyler, resigned, relieved by J. H. Robertson, from the W. U. Bro. Morgan has gone with the I. & G. N. at Tyler, re- lieved on second “QN” by Bro. "Ickey” Prater from Trinidad. Bro. Gary, from the Katy, is relieving on second, and Bro. Pender, Corsicana, on first Lufkin. Bro. Peters, ”CG,” Tyler, spent a few days in Marshall recently. Get after the nons. “No card , no favors Dick, Cert. 274. Pine Bluff -Texarkana Division — * New Jobs opened on Illinois Division have drawn heavily from this division, owing to the scarcity of operators and no available extras. Sister Detrick, resigned, second Fordyce, for extra board, recalled to protect the Job until assigned. Sister Fraser relieved Bro. Hughes, first yard, Pine Bluff, a few days. Now is the time for team work. We want every up-to-date member to get busy and line up everything eligible. Don't wait for someone to tell you to get after the delin- quents. Help us to get a ”100 per cent division.” Try and get conductors to quit copying orders on this division. Talk to them per- sonally. Also to the agents whose night clerks are giving dispatchers information and have it discontinued at once. If you hear of any more of this being done give your local chairman the names and location of the parties who refuse to stop it. Brothers, drop me a few notes next month. W. C. Baldridge, Cert 113. Seaboard Air Line Ry., Div. 28. Virginia Division — Several new members joined during the past thirty days. Every one do your part to make it 100 per cent by June. The write-up from so many of the divi- sions on "The Seaboard” in the February journal looked very good. Let us keep this up. I have mailed each member on this divi- sion a copy of the new weekly paper “Labor/* published in Washington, by the Plumb Plan League, which costs 31.00 a year. It will keep you posted and up-to-date on what our lawmakers are doing. I hope all will subscribe. If you wish you can send me the dollar and I will send it in for you. In addition to the paper this amount pays for your membership card in the league. At the request of our General Chair- man we solicited a fund for President Ha rah an, who retired March 1st. Mr. Harahan was presented with a beautiful silver service by the employes, who regret very much that he has retired It Is a Digitized by Google

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512 The Railboad Telegeapheh record to be very proud of, to have such feeling exist between the president and men after seven years of toll together. Several complaints have been made that the conductors are using the phone at sta- tions, bothering the operator at his duties. I issued a circular in January* asking that you comply with the Chief Dispatcher's cir- cular No. 15. So you have the right to keep them off the phone, and, if you do not do this, it is no one’s fault but yours. The conductors in their last convention passed a resolution not to use the phone only in case of emergency and no operator available. I know from experience that for the conductor to use the phone does no good, and often- times makes It hard on the operator, and, at times unsafe, so for the company's in- terest, it does them no good, and from an organization standpoint It does not look very well for a loyal member to attempt to run his brother’s fob, Cut this out and hand it to your brother conductor, if he continues to give you trouble along this line. The good old summer time with all its glory will be here soon, so let us make ar- rangements to have a good old time at Ocean View when the weather becomes so hot that every little black place (SHADE) looks so refreshing by the ocean. Cxrt. 1750.. N. C. Division — - Bro. Moore having resigned the office of local chairman to accept the position of cashier of the bank at Wadesboro, I have been elected to fill his un expired term. 1 thank you for your support in my behalf and assure you of my willingness to serve you to the best of my ability at any time. If there is a NON at your station try to show him his mistake in refusing to help us secure better conditions and adequate salary for our services. He receives the same con- sideration when an Increase is granted and should be willing to lend us his support. Re- member “No cord, no favors," and let's try to pull a 100 per cent by June 30th. M. C. Rivxrs, L. C., Cert 1367. N. C. Division Notes — Bro. W. E. Rhyne, first CX, relieved by a new man, a few days on account of sicknees. The time having expired for paying dues and MBD assessments you are without the protection afforded us through the organisa- tion. Kindly remit at once, giving your families the protection they deserve. President Manion is after double pay for Sunday and holiday work, for relief in hand- ling U. 8. mall, and vacations restored. One way we can help him is to keep up a solid organization. Thanks to Bro. Maynard for notes this month and wish every member would send in a few items. It won't take much of you time and will be an inspiration to ethers. C. N. M., Cert 1819. East Carolina Division — I have been appointed correspondent (or this division, and ask all you boys to send me your notes not later than the 26th, so I can get them to St. Louis before the 25th and have a good write-up every month. Bro. Richardson bid in second Clio Junc- tion, succeeded by Bro. Nicholson on second Andrewa H. E. Swans, Dlv. 53, bid in third Gibson; Bro. Puller second and Jener- ette third Mullins; latter suceeded on Mc- Call agency by Bro. Wilson from Dade’s and Bro. Ackerman, third Dillon, and Wood from the S. C. Division, the agency there. There are several new men over here. Let’ 8 get the applications of those not al- ready lined up. We must get solid and stand together. Remember our motto: “No card, no favors ," and live up to ft I am almost out of the world at Hartsrille. although there Is a college full of girls here, so send me some news. K. R. Pxjllsn, Cert 1764. Alabama Division — Bro. G. L. Youmans and Sister Ramsey, second shops, while sick with “flu." relieved by E. D. Foster from the A. B. & A. now on W. U. position at Collins pending bid on account of no available extra men. Bra J. G. Hamilton, third Vidalla, was sick and Bros. Carter and Youmans doubled while Bro. S. D. Surrency, “SA" Savannah, also off two weeks with same malady. Bros. Smm and Woods doubling. Clisby Park office, Montgomery Yard, opened with Bro. Harrison back on first and new men on second and third. General Chairman Tidwell and Local Chair- man Fanning attended the joint meeting of General Chairmen of SAL, ACL and C. 4k 0, held In Savannah. March 17th, in reference to the Grand Session to be held next year In Savannah. H. L. Caster, Cert. 1423. N. Y., N. H. * H. R. R-, Dlv. 2* Nets Rochelle District— The regular March meeting was held the same as usual in Mechanics’ Halt Bros- Handy and Tiger gave us all the details on the switchboard question which Is now awaiting final decision. It was noted at the meeting the absence of men living right in town. What’s the matter, boys? Can’t yen spare one evening a month to help conduct your own business? This organisation is a stock company of which every member Is 1 stockholder and, brothers. If you leave U the work to a small committee without fur individual Instruction you have no ground* to a kick on if they do ths* Digitized by Googk

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The Bailboad Telegrapher 513 don't suit joo. We are holding meetings Just the same a a ever In Mechanics' Hall every second Friday In the month. Let us show a much better attendance next month. Bro. Joe 8herldan was called to Phoenix, Arls., on account of his wife being sick there with the "flu." We hope he finds her much Improved and to have him back with us soon. Fred Maher, formerly with the A. E. F., located in Dublin, Ireland, is back in our fold working second "HT" until bid in. Bro. Minkler, agent. Riverside, passed away Sunday, March 7th. There have been very few of the brothers who have not been off sick within the last two months. Men have been doubling in every place. At one time we had 16 men on sick list on our division alone, but we are glad to say they are all back again. Bro. McMann, agent, Rochester, seems to be improving slowly. Bro. Smith, while up and around, does not seem to get along as fast as we would like to see him do. Brothers, some of you have forgotten that February 29th ended the term as of Decem- ber 21st. Remember what the order has done for us; rou&e yourselves and pay up. If you have lost Bro. Tiger's address, ask the man you are working with. Ask the men you work with if they have their new cards and if not get after them. This is as much your affair as paying your own dues. A few more paid up members will give us another delegate and that counts. Cirt. 1143. Providence District — The snow storm of Saturday, March 20th, reduced the attendance at our regular meet- ing. Notwithstanding this, the twenty- five brothers present found enough to Interest them until 11:30 p. m. The committee on resolutions, Bros. Van- derbeck, McCabe and Callis, reported upon the death of our late brother, W. R. Cronin. Report adopted. The committee on revision of local council by-lhws, Bros. Haddock, Callis and Brenner, reported progress. The election or appoint- ment of correspondent was put off pending its Anal report. The committee on ways and means, Bros. McCabe, F. G. Carleen and W. A. Wllliston, will organise between now and our next meeting and doubtless have a good report to make at that time. Bro. Farley, at home still under the doc- tor's care, was reported convalescing favor- ably. He is a punctual attendant at Council sessions and was missed from our recent meetings. Bro. Gafney was reported at home sick. Many sick a month ago are back at work. General Chairman Handy honored us by his presence, and brought encouraging re- ports of vital Importance to every member. Local Chairman Brady reported everything in his territory quiet. Bro. Mignault, Hills Grove Tower, handed me the following for publication: "Coal Branch, N. B., March 8, 1920. "Papa passed away Saturday, 9:30 a. m. All the rest are welL . . . Expect to leave here 3-16-20 for "HG". . . . (Signed) Doss." Cbrt. 712. New London Division — The meeting at New London, February 28th, was not very largely attended owing to the weather conditions, and adjourned at 10:00 p. m. General Chairman Handy, detained in Washington, was unable to attend. Local Chairman Bowler desires to estab- lish a council in New London, and specially requests a large attendance at the next meeting, April 24 th. Read "Buffalo Division" notes, page 238, February Tklsoraphxr, relating to the use of dispatchers' phones by trainmen, who do not in many cases seem inclined to co- operate with the operators regardless of agreements in effect; don’t be afraid to tell them about it. They would very quickly call you to account for violating any agree- ment which affected their bread and butter. Down at East Greenwich they have a jnew position signal, which "sticks right straight out." Remember, brothers, this division will be what you make it. The local chairman be- comes a nonentity without the co-operation of the membership. Do not only consider him at times when you need his assist- ance, but at all times. With special nottnca- tion, It is possible for all of us to arrange to attend meetings so that other engage- ments need not conflict The signing of agreements by the repre- sentatives of thirteen of the fifteen railroad labor organizations, representing 2,009.000 employes, who agree to form a close alliance to maintain rights, which compels united consent of all the allied organizations repre- sented in this agreement before a strike can be called, should appeal to the public as well as to the employes. W. D. Cross was recently called to his * home in Philadelphia on account of the ill- ness of his father. Bro. Charles A. Green, third Wickford Junction, Is convalescing from an attack ot pneumonia. Bro. G. O. Dalton, relieving. Bro. R. W. Generous, third Groton, is also recovering from a siege of the "flu." Bro. J. J. Moran relieving. Bro. Earnest Skelton, third, Hills Grove, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Manning. Bro. D. D. Gallant, agent. Hill's Grove, was called to New Hampshire, on account of Digitized by Google

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514 Thb Railroad Telegrapher. the illness of his father, Bro. D. B. Mills re* lleving. Bro. Joe L. Gomes bid in third dispatch- er's office, vice Bro. James Keefe, deceased. Bro. L. R. Davis bid in second, Fort Yard Tower; 8 later Gladys K. Bray second, Au- burn, Mass., and Bro. A. E. Pontbriant, third, Tafta. Read the railroad bill, the Plumb plan, and the speech of Hon. Thetus W. Sims, page 20, January Telegrapher. Study it thoroughly, and you will not have to write your chairman to ask him what the Plumb Plan is. Also turn to page 64, January Telegrapher, and read "Anti-Strike Legislation" by Bro. G. H. Dameron, Div. 130. Then read page 66, "Pay Your Poll Tax," by Cert. 152, Div. 59. This is all well worth reading. Keep after the few delinquents and nons. If you don’t know who they are write Bro. Bowler or myself for a list of them and give them no rest until they line up. Write some articles for The Telegrapher and express your personal views on subjects that interest you. I have in mind a number of you who should do this, or send me some ideas on which to write. Would like to hear from Bro. Cox at Los Angel es, CaL The ten commandments by Bro. E. H. Henderson, page 226, February Telegrapher, is something all should take to heart. Let me have an expression of your ideas now, for the May Telegrapher. E. H. Scriven, Cert. 91*. Brothers, pay strict attention to your office calls, saving the time of the operator calling and delay to other Important work. It takes no longer to answer the first call and means more efficient service to do so. Bro. Polly is back at Bridgewater after a week’s illness. Bro. Howard Miller, Baldwinville, spent a week recently with friends in Bridgewater, and Bro. V. A. Aldrich, agent Cedanrilla, with his family in Sherburne. March 6th and 7th reminded the boys on the Richfield Branch of the old Sam Sloane Sundays, years ago, having no trains for 36 hours, on account of Brown’s Cut being filled with snow. Brothers on the Utica Division, send Bro. Carey your news Items promptly. It is only a short two- minute procedure. Don't allow your division to go without mention owing to your lack of interest. Cert. 157 Scranton Division — Through the death of Bro. P. J. Quinn, at Portland, Pa., Division 30 lost one of tte staunchest members, and we who know him a good friend. Death came suddenly, being stricken upon his return from work. Bro. Quinn was also a member of the Mine Workers’ Union and was well thought of by officials and employes alike. The boys on the East End. including the dispatching and relay offices at Scranton, presented a beautiful floral offering. Interment was held at his former place of residence, Oxford, N. J. Cert. 200. D., L. * W. R. R., Div. SO. The members of the Syracuse and Utica Divisions were deeply grieved to hear of the death of Bro. Ernest W. Lewis, our Cortland freight agent, which occurred at the family home, 62 Church street, on March 6th. Bro. Lewis had been confined to his home since Christmas. After an operation was performed at Ithaca shortly after the first of the year, it was very evident that he could live but a very few months, as it was found he had cancer of the stomach. While his relatives and closest friends thoroughly realized his condition, death came as a se- vere shock to all. Our brotherhood extends to the family, the immediate members of whom consist of his wife, mother and father, our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of a husband and an only son, and we shall also miss his presence in our midst. Bro. S. J. Brackett of Whitney Point suc- ceeds Bro. Lewis at Cortland. Bro. Yeoman, first Syracuse Yard, on thirty days’ leave, is trying out a traffic position with the Brown Lipe Gear Co. of Syracuse. Missouri Pacific R. R., Div. 31. Memphis Division — We extend our sincere sympathy to Bro. L. R. Woodson, first Lexa, over the death of his wife, February 14th, after being rick only one day with congestion. Bra Wood- son took her remains to Kingland, Ark., for burial, leaving his two little girls there with his mother-in-law. Bro. F. O. Mott spent several days re- cently on the division, looking after special cases. New members : W. J. Ross and A. W. An- derson, making us 100 per cent. Now let's keep it that way. Bro. J. C. Cooper relieved his "bud,” Bro- C. Cooper, Blackton, a few days. Bro. P. W. Whitworth, Lexa, has returned Bro. M. McCardle’s back pay check to C. H. Stevens, paymaster. Railway Exchange Building, St Louis. "Me,” when you 9* this, write him for It "CX,” Cert 615* Joplin Division — Being sick with fever, Bro. Honey for* nlshed the write-up for last issue and ab* sent in some for this one. I was relieved by Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 515 Mrs. Rowe, keeping the money in the fam- ily. Some clads to that kind of & wife. Bro. Holmes, second Adrian, visiting al his home in Jasper, was relieved by Bro. Rouse, who also relieved Bro. J. M. Brown at Boston while sick a few days. Bro. E. L. Brown, agent Jasper, went to Nevada recently, to try and have a helper put on. Reports to the State Labor Com- mission for 1919 show that he needs one. Bro. Geral Roberts, second Rich Hill, vis- ited his old home in North Carolina recently, accompanied by his family. C. V. Rows, Local Chairman. Joplin Division Notes — Bro. H. J. Stratton, Pittsburg second, off a few days, owing to his mother’s illness, relieved by Bro. Clyde Rouse, who later went to Faulkner agency. Bro. B. C. Rullman Is at Holsington Re- lay. Bro. Tarkington bid In third wire chief’s Job at Nevada. Bro. W. H. Sweet, Harrisonville third, is being relieved by Bro. Nunn, and Bro. Cole, Jasper second, by Bro. G. R. Corwin on ac- count of the death of his brother-in-law. Local Chairman Rowe, sick for over a month, is back on the job again. Chief Dispatcher’s Clerk Harry Brewer was killed in the recent Nevada cyclone. We received all of our back pay a few days ago. Business good now in the mining district, as we are getting plenty of coal cars. Boys, drop Bro. Rowe a few lines about the 16th. It is nearly impossible for him to get any news, only as we send it to him. “HO." Cert. 1790. Omaha Division — Our March write-up reached St. Louis too late to be printed in that issue. Brothers, keep after the nons working be- side you and give them no rest until they line up. \ Bro. Wooten, second Edge water, and Bro. Holthuaen, third Wolcott, were off a few days, account sickness, latter with the '‘flu." Bro. Schulse, third Oakmills, also sick sev- eral days, relieved by Bro. Williams. Sister Hequenburg, agent Nearman, has recovered from her broken arm. She and Bro. Marr, first Upper Yard, have both re- ceived a gold medal for being continuous members of the O. R. T. 25 years. Bro. Moore, relieved on third Leavenworth by Bro. R. T. Jackson, went to Des Moines as ticket seller. Bro. Pryor, second Oakmills, was run over by a team and wagon, breaking two of his ribs. Bro. Warren, second Shannon, off 15 days with “flu.” Loweryard and Padonio closed, Bros. Baker and Williams going to Shannon. Sis- ter Skaggs relieved G. A. Rood, third Shan- non, making the East End 100 per cent strong. Local Chairman Dyer was in Falls City recently. Bro. Brown, third Baker, relieved 30 days by Mr. Ditrich, who promises to join soon as located. Don’t let him forget this. Bro. Staton, third Weepingwater, relieved Bro. Keedy at Elmwood several days. Bro. Byergo, third Nebraska City, who fractured his arm while handling baggage, is doing nicely. Bro. Devilbliss, agent Stella, dealing in insurance, relieved by Bro. Opp, second Ne- braska City, relieved by Bro. Atkins. Bro. McConnaha (Strausville close) bid in third Verdon. Bro. Wilson, relief agent, is relieving Bro. Pettit at Murray, to whom we extend our heartfelt sympathy in the loss of his dear wife and mother. Bro. Freeder, second Omaha, visited rela- tives at Peoria recently. Bro. Forbes, “JO" Omaha, in the army since 1917, is recuperating at Elmhust, 111., Sanitarium since his return from overseas. Bro. McVey, relief dispatcher, is back as chief clerk at Falls City, vice W. E. Jones, back on first there. Remember our motto, “No card , no favors” Cbrt. 1877. Colorado Division — The first meeting on this division, held at McCracken, Sunday, March 21st, was at- tended by about twenty members. Although the crowd was small, we had a good time and everyone was benefited by it. Bro. Morgan from St. Louis was with us. Let's have a better attendance at the next meet- ing and arrange to line up that one lone “non” and the three delinquents on the divi- sion. Every member lend a helping hand. Our last increase or adjustment was not the last by any means. With our union grow- ing stronger from day to day, we are not going to have any trouble being recognised by the management, so cheer up, forlorn brother; we need your help. Your wages are worth only what they will buy in food and clothes. Working conditions regulate to some extent how long we will live. Both are very important, and are regu- lated by organized labor. If you haven’t an up to date you aren’t treating yourself right, not even considering the other brothers of the organization. If you have a card, influ- ence someone else to get one. Bro. Hunt bid in third Haswell, relieving Ellis. Bro. Barry resumed March 10th, re- lieving Bro. Hendricks, on vacation. Bro. Elias, La Crosse, off sick, relieved by Bro. Odell, second La Orange. Bro. Parker resumed at McCracken agency March 3rd after a siege with the “flu,” and Digitized by Google

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516 Tub Haxlboad Telegrapher. Bro. Upson has returned to third "QF’ after ten days' illness. Bro. Lewis, second Scott City, is off with the "flu," relieved by Simons, a new man from the A. T. S. F., who promisee to line up soon. M. L. House, another new man, relieving: Bro. Johnson, second Boone. A- E. Ellis, a new man from "JN” Relay, goes to third "BID" pending: bulletin, vice Bro. Rook- stool, who went to the Frisco, South. Keep after these new men. Bros. Hain and Odell recently visited by the stork; both girls, and doing fine. Avondale, * Colo., will soon be a telegraph office. Bro. Jones advises the company contem- plates building a 16-foot addition to Ran- som depot, which will be some help and give Bro. Jones more room to develop. Bro. Carroll bid In Ordway; Bro. Wisdom, Olmitz agency, and Bro. Newel, third Ol- mlts. Flower Fund : Balance on hand 614.76 Contributions • 1.00 Total , 616.76 “CM,” Cert 2746. 8L Louis- San Francisco Ry« Div. 32. River and Cape Division — Bro. Millar has returned to Kennett from a 90-days’ trip West relieving Bro. Cun- ningham, whose duties in the claim depart- ment will probably keep him on our divi- sion. Bro. Wynn, Pascola, relieved by Bro. H. P. Latimer, owing to the illness of his wife. Bro. Crocker is relieving Bro. McCoy at Frenchman’s Bayou, on sick list Bro. Pearson relieved Bro. Bienert at Nay- lor a few days, while he was getting ac- quainted with his new baby girl. Sister Walker Is relieving Sister Barron at Blytheville. Bro. Charleville relieved the agents at * Bassett and Joiner each a few days. Bro. Daughtrey, Chaffee “CR” office, made a fine showing with the Cardinals on their spring training trip, but concluded he had rather distribute cars and play ball at / Chaffee. Bro. Hopkins, his relief, returned to Marston, relieving Bro. Howell, who went to Biggers for a few days. We are glad to have him with us again. The question about our passes being taken away has been settled and we will receive them as usual. “Hop.” drown a twenty-eight piece orchestra with a regular circus parade for display. Writing weekly letters to keep the mem- bership posted on all the eases before the various committees would require a pro- fessional stenographer by the local chair- man alone. Outside of negotiations for In- creases in pay and better working condi- tions, all other correspondence conducted by the local chairman is chiefly Individual mat- ter, interesting to only those directly con- cerned in the case. There Is not that 1 am aware of, any disposition to keep them things secret, as a few members seem to be inclined to think. The utter impossibility of making copies of each case for distribu- tion can be readily realised In reviewing the files of one where a certain agent was being required to pay for a shortage that occurred after his hours, when a clerk was responsible In charge. The contention by the opposition seemed to be that the agent had been ab- sent without authority the afternoon when the office was robbed, while the clerk wu handling train baggage. The correspondence that had accumulated on this case when ! last saw It, made a good-slsed bundle, re- quiring the use of extra postage several times over to insure its transit in the mails. The quick answering of correspondence, regardless of how informal It may be writ- ten, is the most Important item Is the efficient operation of a union. Frequently further assistance is sought by the local chairman from those having a "mill," and any member sufficiently interested enough to give things a boost once In a while, should write the "Old Boy” to that effect It must be remembered that a local chair- man’s authority extends only over a super- intendent's division. Owing to exorbitant prices of printers, the printing of seniority lists is being postponed. Drr. Cos. Newcastle Division — Floral Fund: On hand last statement Feb. 1 616 ®* Received on request of Jan. 21, slnoe March 1 6*71 Total on hand 622.60 Must congratulate you on your generosity, having collected on request of December 15th and January 21st 621.25. Necessary to put out second papers on West End and extreme East End, as first papers lost or destroyed. V. P. McLaughlin, Local Treasurer. Baltimore & Ohio R. R;, Div. 33. Indiana Division- Some seem to think that union events take place like a one-reel motion picture com- edy, and that men elected to the hard-work- ing positions should furnish enough noise to Newcastle Division Notes— Saturday evening, March ISth, the Utfl« Cuyahoga River flooded the B. & O. track* at Kent, Ohio, washing out the westward track completely, also damaging the salt- ward track. Trains had to be detoured rls Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 517 tbe Erie and Penns Lines for about 48 hours. It created quite an excitement in Kent over Sunday, numerous spectators be- ing attracted to the scene. Bra Holliday reinstated at Girard ; Bro. Shrimplin has resigned, and quite a number of brothers are resigning to engage in more profitable employment. Bra Watson bid in third Newton-Falls and Bra Pearce second *‘TF*' Tower. Sickness over the entire division is 'mak- ing It necessary to double at quite a num- ber of offices. Bro. Ault has resumed on second "BD” Tower, and Bro. Carpenter on third "TF" Tower after several days* illness. Bro. McLaughlin, first Newton-Falls, and Bra Titus, Haselton, also on sick list Cbrt. 1998. Cleveland Division — Bra Landis and wife, called to Atlanta, Ga., on account of sickness, were both taken sick there. Bra Rogers and Sister Speer are not able to be on duty yet ; Bros. Gray and Kiefer are both sick; also Bro. Mor- ris* wife. Bra Hull, Akron Jet., wishes to thank the members for their floral gift to his daugh- ter's memory. Bro. Joe Hickman, out of service several years, still has an up to date and the same pleasant smile. He and others operate The Railroad Brotherhood Supply Co., 905 Euclid avenue. Cleveland. We are up against it for agents and oper- ators. as most of the men are getting out of agency work. We have all received our back pay finally, and only a very few have neglected to pay their dues. This, of course, encourages the committee and others to greater efforts, as we feel our work is appreciated by the ma- jority of the men. We should head this Bys- tem, with every man working a member. Nothing keeps us from being the best or- ganised sub-division except the delinquent members. We cannot understand why a man who has drawn from 8100 to $200 (which he never would have secured if it had not been for the O. R. T.) can fail to get up to date at a cost of 87.00 ; but we will continue our work same as heretofore, doing our best as we see it, regardless of whether we stand first or tenth. The long-disputed cases, vis., Everett and Breck8ville, have been settled. Miss (Sis- ter) Brown drew 8865: Miss (Sister) Kep- ner. 8668, and Mr. Wood, a new man, 893 h» back pay, and both places were put In the ■cheduie at 48 cents an hour. Answer calls promptly, as both the dis- patchers and side wire men have their hands and when the coal trade starts every- body will be very busy. No notes or any information this month from any of you. I thank you for your support. W. A. McC asm, Cert 706. Chicago Division — The general committee is meeting in Bal- timore to discuss grievances. New members : J. B. Hayes, A, D. Win- ner (exclusive agent), B. R. Wlneland, Le- roy Fowler, C. W. Pauli, H. R. Rock, H. A. Smith and R. W. Miller. Consult the' local chairman on any matters not fully under- stood. ' All agents’ positions on this division, ex- cepting S. Chicago, are in the new schedule and we should now see that they are lined up. I am advised that some brother hm re- ceived compensation for teaching telegraphy. It is necessary to get authority from the proper officers to do this, otherwise neces- sary Bteps will be taken. The exclusive ticket agency at Commercial avenue. S. Chicago, was reopened March 1st by Bro. F. M. Ohaver from Garrett. During the month of March Mr. G. E. Plumb, author of the Plumb Plan for the control and operation of the railroads of this country, spoke at most of the Important cities and towns in Ohio, explaining the es- sential points of this plan. Brothers, remember that the local chair- man is not in a position to know what Is going on in his territory, unless we report violations observed. Let every member do this, in order that they may be handled promptly. Also keep after the few nons left and give them no rest until they get a card. The back pay they receive will more than pay for it. Bro. Otto was relieved a few days by Bro. R. W. Miller. Bro. Spencer, second Galatea, went to Willard during Bro. Joslin’s Illness. Bro. Stafford was also off several days sick, re- lieved by Kline, a new man. Brothers along the line, send me your notes. J. H. Gljck, "WN,m Fostoria, Ohio. Illinois Division — Clinton F. Bailie, agent at Owaneeo for the past thirteen years, died at his home there March 25th, aged 67 years. Bro. Bailie entered the employ of the B. & O. Jan. 6, 1891. as agent at MillersvUle, and seventeen years later transferred to Owaneeo on account of the wires being re- moved from Millersvilie. A total of thirty years' continuous service for the company. About two years ago he heroically risked his life rescuing a small child playing on the track when an extra freight was ap- Digitized by Google

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518 The Railroad Telegrapher. preaching and only saved himself by falling backward with It in his arms just as the engine rushed past Several brothers attended the funeral at Mason, 111. R. M. Allen, Cert 668. Illinois Central R. R.r Div. 36, Louisiana Division — We were fortunate in having General Chairman Mulhall address us at two meet- ings in Jackson, Miss., March 14th. The attendance was very good, including Bros. Brent Ely, R. W. Wilson, Steger, Oliver and about twenty others, and everyone was pleased with the results. Bro. Foard, Yazoo City, relieved by Bro. Bullock, was recently married. He and Mrs. Foard spent their honeymoon in New York and other Eastern points. Congratulations and best wishes for their future happiness. Bro. Barrett off a few days, sick, re- lieved by Bro. Erringer. Bros. Ellzey and Heidelberg motored to Yazoo recently, when Bro. Ellzey took a degree in Masonry. Bro. Head is now a full-fledged Shriner. Bro. Chambers, who has been receiving treatment at I. C. Hospital several weeks, has resumed duty, relieved by Bro. Baker, who bid in first "WO." Bro. Jawn Youngblood says the people in New 'leans will never know when summer comes without the "beer signs." Grandpa Akers spent Sunday in New Or- leans recently, and Bros. Stanley and Jake Bogue were recent Hammond visitors ; also Bro. Spragins. “XN” is being remodeled and consolidated with the ticket office. This will mean extra duties for the operators. Bro. Dunning and charming wife spent Sunday In Brookhaven recently. Bro. "Ikey" Jerome has entered the mer- cantile business. This, with his duties as agent, should keep him "bizy." Notices of the Floral Fund dues are being mailed out. Remit your 61.60 to Bro. C. C. Wilson, McComb, Miss., promptly. J. T. Mashburn, Cert. 624, Local Chairman. Chesapeake A Ohio R. R., Div. 40. Hocking and River Divisions — I have been appointed local chairman, suc- ceeding Bro. Robertson, who was a zealous worker, always eager to be of service to the membership. If he had not considered his spare time as being due to his family, I would never have consented to accept. On *my return from military service, I was great elated to find the H. V. in such an excell condition, and it will be my great- est endeavor to keep it so; therefore I re- quest the aid of every individual member, as it is only through your co-operation and assistance that this can be maintained. Every freedom loving American in future elections should support only those candi- dates who pledge themselves to strive for the repeal of the Esch-Cummins law. Secure a record of the vote on this law and file it away safely for future reference. It can be obtained by writing to the Plumb Pita League, Munsey Building, Washington, D.^C„ for a copy of “Labor” for the week ending 28th, or I will gladly furnish it myself to any one on request. A few of the members have overlooked remitting their dues. It will be greatly ap- preciated if they will give this prompt atten- tion. Always be In possession of an up-to- date card, thereby eliminating the delinquent list. Since the return of the railroads to private ownership It behooves to keep up a solid front In order to secure a more Just wage and an Improvement in our working conditions which we are justly entitled to. It is my desire to be of assistance to you in every way possible, therefore I am alway» at your service. C. W. McClean, Ij. C Indiana Line — We have 91 members and only a few de- linquents and none, latter recently employed. There will In future be a great deal of work for your committees, which necessitates a good backing expected from the member- ship. We are hoping that our general committee will be able to secure the vacation clause we had prior to government control. Bro. Miller, in the army for two years, has taken Hy Tower, vice Bro. Collins. Bro. Wood, relief dispatcher, has returned from Florida, relieved by Bro. Hedrick, extra dispatcher. Bro. Wright is relieving Sister Bilboa, at Beatrice, who is now convalescing. Bro. Barker, who has been ill all winter, was a recent Peru caller. Bro. Napier, .second, Fernald, was recently married. Congratulations. E. E. Middlbkauf, Chairman. Boston and Maine R. R.f Div. 41. White Mountain Division — Bro. Thos. Upton, second, Woodsvlfle NH Tower, on six months* leave visiting his folks near Winnipeg, Man., whom he hasn’t seen for twelve years, will return about July 1st unless he strikes something better doaer lome. Bro. Bill Jfackson. who relieved him, was relieved by Bro. Conlin on third. Ex -Bro. George Pebbles, first trick die- atcher, main line, has been promoted ta ight chief dispatcher, position recently reated. I hope we can soon have a good oM-faah* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 519 loned Passumpsic and White Mountain divi- sion meeting’ again at Wopdsvllle to find out what la going on and renew old ac- quaintances. We should have more meetings on these divisions than we are having. Curt. 1181. Passumpsic Division — Brothers, answer your dispatcher promptly, and help to keep traffic moving, thus re- lieving congestion of freight at your station. Local Chairman King, we are very sorry to say. Is In bad health. Brothers, north or south, drop me a line before the 10th of each month so we can have a good write-up. F. L. Belanger, Cert. 347, Willoughby, Vt. Southern Division — Bro. Kingsley, Reservoir Switch, has in- vented a “tone adjuster" for the Main Line Sounders, which softens or loudens the tone instantly. He expects to put it on the mar- ket in the near future. Bro. Kelly, third. Potter Place, has re- fused numerous offers to join the Franklin Jazz Band. We’d miss his song if he should leave. My morning paper says "Big Need Is for Peace"; next column, "Increase Production," under it "Extravagance Must Be Curbed," and down In one corner "Assistant District Attorney uncovers the fact that in the Chi- cago cold storage houses there are now 4.969.398 lbs. of butter, as compared with a year ago when there was 2.322,361 lbs.; more than 655.000 lbs. of cheese, compared with 1,561,460 lbs. one year ago, and you and I are trying to get by on 48 to 79 cents per hour, and buy the baby's shoes. Local Chairman Gage, Manchester Union Station, on committee work several dayB, relieved by Sister Daisy Whiting of Lowell. Bro. Eddie Callahan, Concord Yard, was on emergency work during the snow blockade. The dispatchers, operators and towermen, etc., have had a strenuous time with the snow and ice blockade. We have made a good showing the past year, both in point of numbers and finan- cially. Some of you "owls" send me the news In your vicinity so we can keep in touch with what is going on. Cert. 1467. Terminal Division Interlocking — Bro. Dan Singleton snowshoed across the frozen bay from Revere to Bass Point and back; he cut a hole in the ice at the Point and caught a big mess of sea bass. Bro. Murray Gordon had Bro. Ben Wil- liams as helper on third tower "D" during^ the bad weather conditions. Bro. Jack Mansfield, Somerville Junction. made several trips to Franklin Field to study the snowbirds? Bro. Murray Gordon, third "D," has again entered the field of matrimony. Congratula- tions. Bro. Fred C. Hyde, "C," strained his leg on the ice, and is on the sick list. Bro. Ben Williams, former chief dispatcher, Southern Division, is now relief towerman on the Terminal. Cert. 1490. General Telegraph Office — Bro. F. J. McKenna filled in for L. Mc- Carthy on account of the death of his father. S. Goodwin, "VN," "GM.,” Cert 406. Berkshire and Fitchburg Divisions — In checking up the roster with General Secretary and Treasurer Jones I find several members in the tower service who did not come in when we changed over from the Order of R. R. Signalmen to the O. R. T. This was a big surprise, as most of these were good and staunch members of the towermen's old order and they stood by the old ship. Now that we have a larger and stronger one, let's all take a try on the new ship. Brothers, if there are any of these men in your tower who did not see their way clear to come ih with us. talk to them "like a father to his son." Just as soon as ar- rangements can be made I intend to cover the ground and try to get these old brothers to be brothers In the new order. A. J. Losow, Division Chairman, Towermen. Interlocking Notes — Bro. J. O. Mosseau is back on second Cres- cent after several days' Illness. Bro. Losaw is back on second, Johnson- ville Tower, after attending the hearing at Boston and several days’ tussle with the "flu." Boston looked natural and he had a pleasant trip and the only thing missing was "Jones' Cream Ale." Bro. Welch, second, Petersburgh Junction, laying off on account of the sickness of his father and brother, is being relieved by Bro. W. G. Hunt. Several weeks ago Bro. Whaley, Shelburne Junction, reported to the train dispatcher that an east bound train was just over the bell. As no train showed up and Bro. Whaley couldn't explain the mystery, the solution must be that a bear stepped on the ringing point at Bear River. D. S. Center Is back on Gardner Tower after several weeks' Illness. Bro. C. Cl Gay, West Portal, claims even the rabbits had to wear snow shoes to get around down there the past winter. Cert. 1491. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 52 0 Eflt Railroad, Dlv. 42. Rochester Division*— The meeting held at Rochester, Friday, March Ith, was largely attended by New Tork Central and Lehigh Valley agents, telegraphers and signalmen. This was not an Erie meeting but we were all cordially invited and only one man was present from this division. Agents and operators from Mt. Morris to Rochester can easily attend these meetings and get some good first hand in* formation, as all meetings called by New Tork Central are opened by General Chair- man Morey. Another meeting was held Friday, April 2nd. We want to make these regular month- ly meetings for New York Central — Lehigh and Erie co-operating and splitting expenses, so all will have an equal share. Bro. Morey gave a detailed report of the wage committee bills presented during the U. S. railroad administration. The members were asked to join the Plumb plan League; also urged by General Chairman Hesser. Those wishing to join will forward one dol- lar to the Plumb Plan League, Munsey Building, Washington, D. C., and the weekly paper “Labor,’* will be sent you in addition to your membership cards. Bro. Gherig is now agent at Mt. Morris, vice Bro. Stroud, returned to his former station on the Pennsylvania railroad. Bro. Hendershot, Stafford, has gone to Canada on account of a death in the family. Mrs. J. V. Mitchell, wife of Bro. Mitchell, “HO” Tower, is recovering from several weeks’ serious illness. Bro. Schillinger has purchased a “BUG” to wake the boys up with early in the morn- ing. Keep your eye on the “Copier.” He means business. Bro. M. J. Lynch is back at Caledonia after several days’ illness. Some kind brother please talk to Jerry at Cohocton and Eddie at Savona and advise the chairman when they are ready to talk “bi^.“ Cxrt. 17S5. Meadville Division — Chairman Mosher has asked me to act as division correspondent. There would be very little known of this division if it had to be taken from our write-up in The Txlso- raphsr. Reviving the old game spirit, I am willing to try anything once. Wish all you brothers and sisters to give me any items you can on the wire or by matl on both first and second districts. Glad to see Bro. Hoard back on first “WC“ after several days' illness, relieved by Sis- ter Rider. Sister Cladwell bid In “RX“ agency and Bro. Dickinson, Becond “DV,“ took sec- ond “J.” An additional trick has been added at Jamestown days. Bid in by Bro. P. F. Crowe, relieved by Bro. D. C. O’Brien from seoond “NE," relieved by Bro. Jamieson sad Bro. Anderson, until Bro. Dickinson took second “J.” A baby boy was born recently to Bro. end Mrs. L. Swart*. Lakewood. N. T. Has B. V. Dahlgren, first “WO,” L S. Tyler, Operator Kennedy and Geo. Austin. “CM," got a card? Ask them. Please see that I get some notes. This la not much of a write-up, but it's a start. J. C. William b, Cert 404. Can. Nat’i Rya., Lines West, Dlv. 48. Western District, Second Division — After a silence of many months, although I advised you I had given up the position of correspondent, no one appears to haw taken it, and seeing the Canadian National Railway with its thousands of miles of line* so poorly represented in Thi Tblbqbafhs* I decided to “do my bit” once again, and hope a little more help from you brothers will be forthcoming. The last meeting held at Calgary, PalBaer Hotel. Sunday, March 7th, was not as wefl represented as it should have been, only about twenty members attending. Unfortu- nately some of the boys who came in missed the meeting, as the C. P. boys were holding a meeting same day In the sun parlor of the Palliser Hotel, the clerk directed some of our boys there instead of the south din* Ing room where we were holding forth. Don’t make this mistake again, boys. Remember the C. P. boys require more light on their schedule and will be given the sun parlor. Bros. Stains, McRobie and Cullen beta! unable to get away, expressed their regret* to Local Chairman Whitlock. This shows the spirit of the boys and is appreciated. Bro. J. W. Brown, Mecheche, is punUM his brain figuring just what amount he win expense the boys to cover his winnings to the rummey game, which the boys have de- cided to cut the “joker” out of next time. Bro. Ed Wilson, Rockeyford. had the mil- fortune to break his arm, and is being re- lieved by Bro. “Jimmie” Powers, who say* he would like a few more flags to handle to take up the balance of his spare time. Beynon and Redlands, on the famous Rose- bud Greek, have been opened as regular agencies. Bro. W. C. Donlevy, acting as trainmaster between Big Valley and Calgary during the coal rush, is now relieving Trainmaster Cameron Hanna on sick leave, and Bra McLeod, first, Drumheller, to acting agent at DrumheUer, replacing “Don.” Bro. “Charley” Sowden, Hanna, requtrt* the services of two car checkers (ladles pre- ferred). Anyone knowing of any effldso* ones, please head them that direction. Bro. Jack Strong. Youngstown, in Oalftr* Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 521 nla several months, Is being relieved by Bro. Martin. Bro. McRoble bid In operator’s position, Bonar, and superintendency of Medicine Hat Sab. This line is now completed fifty miles south of Bonar with tri-weekly service. “Duke" Sutherland, conductor, trainmaster, road mas ter and section foreman; Superinten- dent McRoble states "Duke" can be located anytime, anywhere between Bonar and end of steel, either on or off the track. Bro. Gainer, Excel, off a week with an at- tack of “flu,” relieved by Bro. Nelles, a new man from Military School, Calgary, who, having lost an arm while fighting our battles at Vimy Ridge in 1917, is at some disadvan- tage. Give him the “glad hand/' boys. Bro. Donaldson, Youngstown, relieving the agent at Oyen, was later relieved by Bro. Fowler on account of McLeod Junction clos- ing and Oyen agency is now up for bid. Bro. Pratt, cashier, Oyen, holidaying two weeks In Vancouver where his wife and child spent most of the winter, returned with his family a few days ago. Bro. Elliott, Kinder8ley, is down with the “flu," but we hope for his speedy recovery. J. J. Gainer, Cert. 161. Pacific Division — Bro. Musgraves, who goes in train service on the newly created position, on Port Mann Sub division is succeeded at Boston Bar by Bro. McGinnis, from Albreda. Bro. Picker- ing. relief agent, relieved Bro. Nichols, agent, Chu Chwa, who bid in Albreda, nights. Bro. MetTlfield bid in Lucerne, second, and Bro. Ryan went to Block Island, nights. Bro. Wardel, third. Lucerne, who was married in December, has furnished his house and moved in. Bro. Pake, second. Blue River, has re- turned from California after a three months’ lay off. very much improved in health. Third trick dispatcher, who has been in Eastern Canada for five weeks, worked a little over a week on his return, when he was taken down for two weeks with the "flu." First Trick Dispatcher Bro. Francisco re- lieved Chief Dispatcher Bro. Crane at Kam- loups, while he was relieving the trainmaster at Lucerne. Bros. Perry and Fee go to Vancouver Re- lay. The wife of the latter has been In very poor health lately. Bra McLeod, at Ashoroft, is getting an ex- tension built to his living quarters, which was very badly needed as is the case at several other points. Keep after any nons you know of until they all get cards. Mr. Bqulb has made up his mind to do so, as he has drawn more overtime on this district than any one else. Please send me any notes you can for the wrtte-up. A. L. Croutch, Cert 166. Kamloops, B. C. Central R. R. of New Jersey, Dlv. 45* Central Division — I’ve been hearing lots of complaints from different brothers on the line about not hav- ing any write-up in The Telegraphs* for the last four months. If these brothers will send in some notes, I will be glad to see that they are sent to St. Louis in time to be in the next issue of our journal. It is impossible for me to go around at this time, especially during the weather we have been having, to find out what’s doing on the road. As the "Track Walker" did not see fit to write up any notes, I will try and give a few for this issue. Local Chairman Moriarity, visiting the members recently, secured applications from several nons and explained the schedule and rate of pay existing in different tricks to members who could not attend regular meet- ings. Everybody should attend these meet- ings ; show that they are interested In what is going on, and keep right after the nons until they are all landed. Some of the brothers and sisters in the station service received their back pay due from our new schedule in first of March pay. The dance given recently at White House by Sister Philhour and “Linger Longer" Girls was highly enjoyed by a large host of friends. Bro. Conover, third White House, who attended the "Stejf Lively Girls" show at Jay street, Brooklyn, said “everything teas lively, but he was better satisfied at White House. Bro. Wyckoff, freight agent White House, while on sick list, was relieved by helper Bro. Riley. A few new engagements are being whis- pered among the younger brothers, but nothing yet ready for publicity; dates men- tioned later. Bro. Lawrence, second Lanes Crossing, off several days recently while trying to fly from train No. 7 up track 3, came near be- ing hurt, but was assisted by Conductor Cre- velln. Several were compelled to work overtime first part of March, due to sleet and snow drifts causing train delays. A large number from this division attended the funeral at Hampton of Engineman Wil- liam Sells, killed in an accident at Elizabeth- Port, March 3rd. Our sympathy goes to the bereaved family. Bro. Pickerson, relief towerman, has re- signed. We all enjoyed the letters published re- cently in our magazine "batting" the “loyal employe" ; also congratulate the brother for showing up the Western Union “ nothing plan." Its friends are few and far be- tween on this division. Bra Ackenbach, second West Brills, re- lieved Bro. Donovan, relief tower, at Tower Digitized by Google

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522 The Railed ad Telegrapher. "A,” Jersey City/' while he was working at West Brills. Bro. Murray, first Broadway Tower, takes In the bright white way in New York quite frequently. Bro. Oerke, relief towerman, and a num- ber of the other brothers took in the recent six-day race at Madison Square Garden. Bro. Oerke never fails to witness these sprints. Bro. Henlger, first High Bridge, is supply- ing the brothers with fine fresh eggs from his farm. Bro. Farrell has rented a bungalow at Highlands for his club this coming summer and promises to bring the brothers all the fish caught Sundays to take home Mondays. Bro. Hickman is back as ticket agent, Jersey City Terminal, after a successful op- eration. I thank Bro. Wainscot t, at White House, for the notes he sent me, and hope you other brothers will take a similar interest and send a few every month to me at “JC“ tele- graph office. Cert. 33. Central of Georgia R. R., Dlv. 46. Columbus Division — Local Chairman Jinnett has organized The Southland O. R. T. Club at Opelika, Ala. A hall has been equipped and furnished and regular meetings ard being held on the sec- ond Sunday of each month. All the mem- bers of this division are invited to join. There you can get information of interest to the entire telegraph world not obtainable otherwise, present your grievances, discuss general working conditions and receive many benefits made possible by coming to- gether. Bro. W. L. Alfred’s wife has been on the sick list; also Bro. Davis of LaFayette. Ala., and family, and Bro. Tucker, agent Vincent, latter relieved by Bro. O. V. Goodwin, whose wife and children have all been sick. Send me your items for this division and I will try and get them off for you. S. Lauderdale, Dadeville, Ala. Terminal R. R. of St. Louis, Dlv. 47. Our official journal is becoming a maga- zine of worth, and I wish to compliment the writers to the correspondents’ depart- ment, one in particular, signed “Ajax," pages 844-45, March issue in which he has discussed the possibilities of company unions. As his article is not fiction by any means, but hits the spot I have dubbed him Nail Hitter. Our regular meetings, held at the Mar- quette Hotel, the 24th and 25th of March, was well attended and much interest was displayed in hearing General Chairman Sief- ert read and discuss the proceedings which transpired during hiB trip to Washington. We had with us at our evening meeting Bro. Evans, of Mineral Point, Mo., Missouri Pa- cific South, & member of Div. fl, who ii also a relative of our S. & T. Bro. Richard- son. He enjoyed the meeting very much and expressed his gratitude for the oppor- tunity of being present, and meeting with such men that go to make up Div. 47. Changes of late have been so numerous that it is hard to keep track of them. Every now and then some member moves shop according to bid. Plumb Plan workers are still at it and will continue. Bro. C. McDonald, third “S,“ bid in third “SH “ and Bro. Coleman third “MY" bid in second “BS.“ A new cross-over has been installed at “W” Tower, which will make Bros. Quinn. Taylor and Brill quite a good deal of extra work. Bro. Hagens, first, Gratoit Street spent a few days with relatives in Mississippi re- cently, relieved by Bro. Smith. Bro. Kempff, “S,” was off duty recently owing to his wife’s illness. Bro. Tavenner, second “US," celebrated his fourteenth wedding anniversary March 4th. He relieved Bro. Grobb. who was relieved by Bro. Wonder and Assistant Superinten- dent Tel Shermer. Cert Np. 5. Detroit, Toledo & I ronton Ry., Dlv. 48. Bro. Gaffic, of the Wabash, relieved Bro. Cox, first Napoleon, several days owing to the illness of his wife. Bro. Eyler, first, Dundee, off 19 days with “flu," relieved by Former Agent Bro. W. H. Terrell. Secretary and Treasurer Bro. Murray, also off several days with the “flu,” relieved by Bro. Rowe from Ba inbridge. Diemer, second, Napoleon, resigned going to farming, relieved by Armstrong. Do your duty, boys, and see that he gets an up-to- date. Bro. McAuliffe appointed agent Adrmin. Bro. Lahy resigning. Bro. Tripp promoted to Consolidated Branch Agency at Jeffersonville, O., succeeded at Waverly Agency by W. H. Noble, and Bro. V. C. Baughn promoted commercial agent with headquarters at Ironton, succeed- ed as agent Jeffersonville, by Bro. H. W. Fresh our, formerly operator and clerk there. D. T. & I. accounts were put back to our Washington, C. H., station again March 1st with M. F. Lahy as agent T. E. Leland, relief agent and extra dis- patcher, has been appointed general agent, Springfield, O. General Chairman Lowery returned from the special called meeting of all geo®*1 chairmen at Washington, D. C.» March Jnd. A decision In our favor was handed down from the Railroad Board of Adjustment No- 8, February 24th, which gives us the benefit Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 523 for all overtime worked om Sunday added to our monthly salary in determining the basic hourly rates. This no doubt will af- fect the hourly rate at a few of our one man stations who drew overtime for Sunday work. Our general chairman has the mat- ter up now for immediate adjustment of the new rates. Cert. 50. Denver 6. Rio Grande R. R., Div. 49. NOTICE : Members First Division: This will ad- vise that Bra F. C. Smith, of “SB" Office, Pueblo, has been regularly elected to fill the unexpired term of Bro, F. L. Reynolds. All matters pertaining to the office of local chair- man should hereafter be addressed to him at 3002 Euclid Ave., Pueblo, Colo. E. A. Compton. General Chairman. Fourth Division — Bro. H. D. Shiles. Pagosa Springs, was called East on account of the serious sick- ness of his sister. Bro. Rogers, Pagosa Junction, relieved as agent by Bro. Anderson. Bro. P. J. Reynolds, Antonito, was off a few days on account of sickness. BrcT. Brew- er, second, Durango, bid in second there and Bro. Gilbert, Monero, third, Chama. Sister Jacks, second there, relieved by Schomberg on account of sickness. R. W. Ogle, Local Chairman, Cert. 219. Southern Pacific Ry. Div. 53. Sacramento Division — Bro. C. W. Manuel after visiting relatives at Roseville went to third Lincoln. Sister Clare Boland relieved Bro. F. H. Jacobs, first Andover, on a year’s leave. Bro. R. A. Murray and wife are visiting their daughter at Marsville and friends In San Francisco. Sister Okey, Lake second, on sick list re- lieved by Miss Ida Son tag. Bros. Knott and Collins, Floriston, have successfully passed the final examinations for positions as freight traffic managers. We regret to learn of the death from in- fluenza, February 28th, of Sister N. E. Mc- Innery, agent for many years at Knights Landing. Local Chairman Wilson was not advised of her death in time to arrange for appropriate floral decorations nor tor repre- sentation by the members at the funeral. Bro. Fowler, second Newcastle, while sick with the “flu" was relieved by Bro. I. S. Wilson, who now is on first Truckee. Bro. N. G. Jones, second Blue Canon, re- cently from the Tucson Division, has secured the applications of W. L. Mason, third staff, Gunter; H. C. Larson, Emigrant Gap, and C. E. Coppln, third Blue Canon Junction. Other new members are : C. D. Wolen, sec- ond Cisco ; Miss Myrtle Waugh, third Tama- rack ; E. F. James, second Or land ; Ralph W. Crawford, C. Boland, T. N. Campbell and J. E. Smith, agent Reno. Nevada ; Bro. Leo W. Johnson, second Midas, transferred from Di- vision 23, and Bro. J. G. Riestetter, second Orland, from the N. Y. O. & W. There are still a few more none to line up. If you don’t know where they are lo- cated, I can send you that information, so you can use your efforts and make as many of them members as you possibly can. The interpretation of Supplement* No. 8, General Order No. 27, has been decided in our favor, giving us back pay for Sundays and holidays from October 1, 1918, which will continue until September 1, 1920. This is the result of organized effort Any one who has the temerity to stay out of the Order now is amenable to our strict rule of “fto card, no favors and unworthy of the esteem or consideration of all good members. Regular assigned telegraphers should put in overtime slips for time lost transferring from one assigned position to another. This has been allowed, is now being checked up and all actual time lost in moving from Feb* ruary 15, 1918, will be paid. Don't overlook this. Local Chairman Wilson has just issued a general circular of much interst to the mem- bers, keeping them posted as to what is going on. He and Assistant Local Chairman Ken- drick expect to cover the entire division to- gether during the early spring months, inter- viewing all who can be seen and hold one meeting on the mountain and two in the valley, dates to be named later. Bros. Cull and Hammond to be present, if possible. All attend who possibly can, as matters of inter- est will be taken up and discussed. Mean- time, all in arrears for dues or assessments are urged to pay up, thereby saving our offi- cers much unnecessary work. Line up the “non" next to you, securing from members who hold cards in other divisions the neces- sary information and send to Bro. Wilson at Truckee, so they can be transferred to our division thereby giving them our protec- tion and our division their financial assist- ance. Sister E. F. Wells, second Spruce, spent a week with the dentist at Sacramento, re- cently. Bro. Dusher, ex-local chairman is still in Chicago hospital slowly Improving from the serious operation he was obliged to have per- formed and will not be able to return home to Blue Canon for some time yet. Bro. T. S. Raborn, from Truckee, is now at Wililams. Bro. McAdow, third there, is in the mar- ket for all the Liberty Bonds he can buy. Truckee is full of movie people from Los Angeles taking pictures of would be Alaskan snow scenes. Wm Hart and his company recently paid $216 a day for a “bum" pas- Digitized by C-oogLe

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524 The Railroad Telegrapher. senger train to run up and own the line to Horae Shoe Bend, staging a grand train rob- bery scene for the movies of which the writer was an eye witness. Bro. Stewart, second wire chief "H” office Sacramento, looking after matters on his ranch, was relieved by Bro. Bundy, a week. Bro. Flynn, agent Newcastle, in the hospital several days, was relieved by Bro. Fowler. I am striving hard to give you a write-up every month, help make it possible by send- ing in your notes to me or Bro. Wilson at Truckee by the 18th of each month. B. T. Nickel, Div. Cor., Cert 1215, Truckee, CaL Western Division — Bra H. B. Segur, recently returned from France, died at Marine Hospital, San Fran- cisco, March 10th. At the declaration of war Bro. Segur entered the training school at the Presidio of Monterey, being commissioned first lieutenant and was assigned to the sig- nal school at Fort Des Moines, Iowa ; later going to France as adjutant of a field bat- talion. He was afterwards made assistant telegraph officer at ”RS” Paris until his re- turn. The many friends of Bro. Segur will mourn his death as he was of a genial dispo- sition, well liked by his associates. He leaves a widow and mother to mourn his demise. Bro. Sullivan landed a general office job in Portland. Oregon. Bro. Hasen, sick since last October, is back again on first West Oakland. Bros. Innis, Kollars and Perkins have re- signed recently, to enter other lines of busi- ness. Bro. Rouse is back at Newark after sev- eral weeks at Oakland Pier dispatching. Bro. Starr, loaned to Stockton Division, now back home, bid in Sunol. See that the three new men recently em- ployed have cards or declare their intentions first pay day, as the good record of the West- ern Division must not be broken. The daughter of Bro. Beard, Oakland Pier, seriously injured in an automobile accident is improving rapidly. Bro. Beard was off sick at the time has our sympathy in his trouble. Bro. D. L. Nichols is seriously ill in Gen- eral Hospital, San Francisco. Bra Turner, Oakland Pier, was several weeks relieved by Reeves, a new man, with- out a card, whom we will show the right road to travel. General Chairman Cull recently mailed out circular letter informing all members that the Director General had approved of interpreta- tion No. 8, and that the Southern Pacific Company would immediately put it into ef- fect and work up the back time which will amount to a goodly sum for some of us, as it dates back to October 1, 1918, and back pay will be paid accordingly. Cm. 185. Coast Division — Bro. Simpson is now agent at Paso Robles, relieved by Bro. Bro. Feldt, who later laid off to look after his stock ranch. Bro. Simms, agent Chualar, is back from the hospital, displacing Bunny, returned to San Francisco. Bro. Brannon is back from Dunsmuir, on second Watsonville Junction ; Vaughn. Shasta Division, on third King City, having traded positions and titles with Walsh. Local Chairman Marrill bid in Saltaaa agency, Bro. Carpenter relieving on third there; Smith, who bid in Soledad agency, transferred to Stockton Division. Bro. Fluker is prospecting in Texas, and Bro. O. B. Rhodes, Casmalia, in Oklahoma for a month ; Bro. Fisher, Oceana on three months’ leave to Ohio, relieved by Woodaftd* relieved at Santa Margurlta by McCann, who has been off a month with the influenxa. Bro. Topham relieved agent Charles, while latter was in the hospital. Bro. 9. W. Henderson, second Casmalia, in the General Hospital two weeks with the “flu” was relieved by Bro. M. L. Fuller. Cert. 1878. Los Angeles Division — Bro. K&lies, second Chatsworth. called East owing to the serious illness of hie mother, relieved by Bro. H. V. Foster, who had just relieved Bro. Cambridge, 8augns, seriously ill for five weeks. Bro. G. W. Adams, second Nlland, off two months on account of the serious illness of Mrs. Adams at San Luis Obispo, relieved by Bro. Willis, and Jones of Pomona, an ex- sailor. With sorrow we acknowledge the death of Bro. *A. R. Peck and the sister of Bro. C. A Bruce. It is now Bro. C. O. Van Orsdale and Bros. Williams, of Division 22 and Stroopi of the Grand were recently transferred to this division. Bro. Hampton is now with an oil com* pany. Bro. and Mrs. Bigelow recently vifited relatives in Reno. Bre. W-asserman will soon be able to re- turn to work and Bro. R. D. Jones la on the sick list at Heber. Bro. Cambridge is recovering after tin weeks' illness. He and Mrs. Cambridge visited the writer and family March 11th. Bro. Gel wicks, third #*NG" Loa Angeles, is again in Chicago taking a college course, relieved by Bro. John Beaton. Bro. Bomgardner, who relieved Bro. Parr, third Glamis, a few days owing to lb* death of his mother, later relieved fr* Digitized by Google

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The &AXLBOAD TELEGRAPHER. 525 Geer at Amoe and Bro. Hartsfleld when the latter went to Q lamia. Bro. Hall displaced at Aras Junction by Bro. Youngblood, relieved Bro. Frew, second Mecca, who went to third Nll&nd. Bros. Meador, Cambridge and Dickinson thoughtfully contributed to the foregoing. On March 6th a little surprise party was given Bro. E. L. Dort at Burbank, who Is faking \ year's leave. Among those present were Bro. and Mrs. L. M. Rothenburg, Bro. and Mrs. F. E. Wright, Mrs. E. L. Bur- roughs. Bro. R. EL Keyes, “NO" Los Angeles, and family, drove to Burbank recently and spent the afternoon with the writer and family. Cert. 704. Correction. In the last paragraph of our February write-up, page 262, a typographical error was made in giving the seniority of Bro. A. H. Foster. It should have read Feb. iq. 1908, instead of 1918. Stockton District — Bro. Harrison, agent Patterson, was off ten days recently owing to the serious ill- ness, of his wife, now Improving rapidly. Bro. Mitchell, new man from the "Soo" Line, relieved Shane, Newman first resigned. Bro. Van Loon, Immediately after enter- ing into double blessednesB was pulled off his regular trick at Rlpon to relieve Bro. Henion at Los Banos and Bro. Cooley at Volta, each two days. See marriage notices for further information. Bro. J. W. Cox, from N. W. P., on Fire- baugh third. Bro. Ressigue, third Turlock, sick with "flu," relieved by Bro. Oldendorf, Livingston third, closed Bro. G. K. Faber, back again after many wanderings, is relieving Bro. Malin, agent Ceres. Bro. Baughman gave up second Newman to take relief agency Farmington, relieved by Bro. Casell. “No card , no favor t.” No news, no write- up. Bra Duesterberg is the only man to come to my assistance. Please rush the news this way before the 16th. Bro. "Jack" Burrows, first "KN" Stock- ton, was called to his phone a few nights ago after he had retired and asked to get out and see if the street light was burning. Returning and informing the party that it was still lit, he was then advised to go and put it out. "DF." Cert. 824. Tucson Division , East End — Bro. Hamilton, third San Simon, relieved ten days by Bro. Wall, a new brother from the "Southern." 8fster Griggs is relieving Bro. Black to Los Angeles 80 days, relieved on Becond at Dragoon by Sister Griggs. Bro. Mooney, third "WC" Tucson, on a week's trip to San Francisco, relieved by Bro. Baker, who later went to Benson sec- ond, and Bro. Francis is relieving Bra Shook, second "WC" Tucson, on leave of absence. Bro. Perrin relieved Bro. Zeb Wilson at San Simon, Bro. Harshman from Sibyl re- lieved Bro. Morrison, and the operators dou- bled Bro. McNeil’s trick at Bowie while these brothers were all off with the "flu." Two of our brothers were recently dis- charged for violation of the nine-hour law. It behooves us all to be careful. The railroads have returned to "private ownership." We need our "Order” as never before to represent us, so be sure your dues are paid up. Bro. O’Connor has Informed me that the necessary donations for stationery has been collected, and he has a big lineup of items to be printed and mailed each member. Thanks to Bro. Cates for items. Tucson Division, West End — Bro. Wheadon, relieved at Araby by Mrs., Hobart, relieved Sister Hoover, Mohawk second, two weeks. Bro. Silva relieved Bro. Cates, third Stockham, while off selling his "farm" at Casa Grande, and after enjoying the lovely weather in a new Grant Six. relieved Sister Davies, third Rillito, and Bro. Doyle, fourth Tucson, several days. Sister Cora Smith relieved on Rillito agency on account of illness, Bro. Kelly and Sister Davies doubling one day. Bro. Dyess to his assignment, Picacho, displacing Sister Pixley, who 1b in Los Angeles on vacation. Bro. Perrin is relieving Bro. Packard, Toltec agency, visiting in Chicago and Mil- waukee. Bro. Clark relieved on Benson first by Bro. Meadows, returning from California, and went to Dome third. Kathtrn B. Morrison. Northern Pacific R. R.v Dlv. 54. Lake Superior Division — The speech of Hon. Thetus W. Sims, November 17th, 1919, to the committee con- sidering the bill to provide for the termina- tion of Federal control of railroads, printed in the January issue of The Teleg- rapher. brings out some very interesting facts, especially that portion of it In regard to the salaries paid officials and attorneys of the different roads, ranging from $20,000 to $120,732.90 In the case of Receiver Dick- inson of the C„ R. I. & P. These salaries, paid before the Government took charge of the roads, were abolished during Govern- ment operation. This should show those Digitized by Google

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526 The Kailuoad Telegbapheh. who have been blaming the workers for high cost of transportation where the trou- ble lies. Mr. Dickinson cost the C. R. L & P. more per year than thirty engineers averaging $260 a month; more than thirty- eight engineers, forty conductors, fifty brakemen, or half of the telegraph opera- tors in the United States, according to the salary paid, but in actual value, service to the public and welfare to mankind in gen- eral I doubt very much if he was of as much value as one poor humble station agent. The roads have been handed back to the corporations with a 6 per cent guarantee. Many of us would be glad to get a little 2% per cent. There is nothing now to pre- vent Morgan’s office boys from receiving their former princely salaries, and the big joker Is that those salaries are charged up to operation expenses and nothing deducted from the dividends received on eight or nine billions of watered stock. Bro. Rawlins advises in his circular letter to correspondents that owing to government restrictions limiting the size of the journal that he has been obliged to discontinue pub- lishing “assignments,” “in memoriams,” “cards of thanks” and “vacations” and re- quests that announcements of “births,” “marriages” and “deaths” be written on separate sheets, with full names and ini- tials in order to insure prompt attention and insertion in the “personal mention” column. . ' Bro. Hildabrandt, third West Duluth, re- lieved a few days by Bro. Hendrickson, who also relieved Bro. Buelow, third Carlton, while home on business. Bro. Linden, third McGregor, relieved a few days by Bro. Lewis, who also relieved Bro. Rice, second there, while he relieved Bro. Hallberg, the agent, a week, and later relieved me while I relieved Bro. Langford, second Central avenue, called South by change for the worse In Sister Langford, who has been convalescing for some time. Bro. Hackett relieved Sister Deagan, sec- ond Motley, a few days. Bro. Glum, third Anton, was off several days with the “flu.” Let’s all send fifty cents to Local Chair- man Spurrier so he can get a duplicator and get out a monthly circular keeping us in- formed of what is going on. J. F. O’Neal, Cert. 632. Fargo Division — Sister Carey, third Eckelson, visiting East for two months, relieved by Sister Lewellen, later called home by the serious illness of her mother, relieved by O. M. Johnson, a new man. Bro. Carlson, second Splritwood, gone East for two months, relieved by Anna Becker; Sister Davis, third there* relieved three weeks by Iris McDowell. Bro. Gilbertson, agent Walum, called East by the death of a brother, relieved by Bro. I. P. Fenne, who later relieved Bro. Schreiter, first Sanborn, ten days while his family had the “flu.” Sister Duffy Is back on third Sanborn after a hard tussel with the “flu,” relieved by Anna Becker. Sister Johnson, second Orlska. off on ac- count of sickness, relieved by Sister Bum- gardner. Sister Christ relieved Skelly, third Alt*, several months while he was dispatching in Minneapolis. Bro. Tofte. agent Eckelson, is inventing a hoop holder for train orders. Get after the few nons and make them sign up. Remember, “No cord, no favon Send In some items so we can have i good write-up each month. Thanks to Bro. Aim for the notes he sent. Cxst. 1288. Dakota Division — New members; V. A. Peterson, McKen* sie*; J. D. Everett, Windsor; Jas. H. Flow- ers Driscoll, and Walter A. Raeshke. Min- newaukan. Former relieved Bro. Schmoldt. agent Buchanan, while he had the “flu” and then went to Sterling third for two weeks. Bro. A. L. Warren is back at McKenzie, relieving Bro. Wm Luchsinger, who went to New Leipzig. Bro. J. D. Everett relieved Bro. Chas. Geil, Windsor agency, transferred to Seat- tle Division. Bro. R. B. Lawrence, transferred to this division from the Yellowstone, relieved Bro Roy Book at Timmer, now farming at Barn- hill, 111. Bro. J. H. Flowers relieved Sister Thorpe, third Medina, while she had the mumps. The writer spent two days In Jamestown working on the application of Interpreta- tion No. 8 to Supplement No. 13 to Gen- eral No. 27. Statistics are being compiled to show Sunday hours worked since October 1st, 1918. Bro. W. A. Raeshke relieved me at Killdeer a week while on a trip to Balti- more. Change Bro. E. J. Huschka’s number on seniority list from 76 to No. 5 as dated from April 1st, 1902. Those who haven't a 1W write for one. Bro. J. D. Rohrer spent a few days at Brainerd, relieved by Bro. Dave Poindexter, who recently visited friends at the capital. Bro. H. C. Dahl called to Denver by the illness of his wife, relieved at Eldridge agency by Bro. Roberts, second Pipestem Tower, relieved by Bro. Laddie Jedlichka. Bro. Toyen, in Trinity Hospital James- town, with the “flu,” is recovering, relieved on second Eldridge by Mrs. Helgeson, for- merly Sister Ida Clough, who so kindly Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 527 helped out during the epidemic. Driscoll third closed while Sister Wlnnefred Watt went to Eldridge during Bro. Toyen’s ill- ness. Sister Marie Paulson bid in third Wind- sor. Sister Nelson relieved by Sister La Favre on third Steele during her illness. Bro. Bashinskl, Pingree, is being relieved CO days by Bro. Fred Miller from Mandan branches. Bro. Jolley relieved Bro. Davis at Ladoga, who bid in Glover agency and later went to extra list. The politicians are among us again as usual extending the glad hand, dwelling with unction on the great destiny* of labor just* before election. Bro. J. S. Gallagher is back at Leeds after service with “Uncle Sam.” Bro. H. D. Flowers, New Rockford, who went to Brainerd for treatment, is now at home in Tennessee recuperating. Bro. E. L. Smith and wife, Sioux City, la., visited in Raymond, Minn., recently. Sister Iona Bolton is now handling the general delivery window in the postoflfice at Jamestown, relieved by Sister Marie Paul- son on second Windsor. Have plenty of new seniority lists for the asking. Send a note or two with the re- quest. Hold the line, get the “delinks,” and keep the division 100 per cent. H. H. Ellsworth, L. C. Idaho Division — Bro. Hilliard relieved Bro. Lowry, Coulee City, on account of sickness. Sister Burgund, who relieved Bro. Curtis there a few days, also relieved Bro. Anderson. Trout Creek, several days. Bro. Irwin, Clarks Fork, relieved a few days by Bro. Elver. Bro. Kay relieved Sis- ter Kay, second Hope, and Bro. Lamoreaux, second Kootenai Yard, several days. Sister Percy resumed on first Ramsey. 8ister Thornton relieving Sister Shavelear on second. Bro. A. O. White, agent, and Bro. Ebert, operator, opened Cour d’ Alene agency. Bro. Kay loaned to Soo Line a few weeks. Bro. Horn, Rosalia, is now on exclusive agency at Cheney. P. M. Anderson, L. C. and L. E. Snyder. There are several more to come off by next issue which will raise our percentage of membership. Rocky Mountain Division is now solid, which ties Dakota. Ten of the fourteen divisions on the system are ahead of us in membership. We must not let this record stand. Brothers and sisters, feet busy and stay busy until the office in which you work is solid. Now for 100 per cent. A. J. Ranzer, Local Chairman. Montana Division Notes — Division Correspondent Bro. Frank Cline has recovered from a long sick spell with the ”flu.” Please send notes to him in fu- ture to Box 130, Livingston, Mont. Bro. H. F. McDowell has brought his wife home from Chico Hot Springs much im- proved. Bro. Schwindt relieved him a few days. Bro. Zaner and wife visited Mrs. Mc- Dowell at Chico Springs. Bro. F. H. Smith has been looking after business matters at Glendive, Mont., and Portland, Ore., recently. Bro. Dillivou bid In Silesia, Mont., agency, and Sister Dillavou, his wife, third there. Bro. Renz succeeded the former at Laural Yard, succeeded by Bro. Neeley at Bridger. Bro. M. M. Miller has returned to second Laurel Yard from a trip South. Bro. Angle, agent Emigrant, on a visit East, relieved by Bro. Zaner. Sister Eva Crawford was off a few days sick. Bro. E. L. Stockman, in Missoula Hospital three weeks, has gone to his old home in Illinois. Bros. H. K. Lake and J. F. Ogle have resigned. Bro. L. A. Kelsey of the Grand is working extra on this division. Bro. Tom Holker’s daughter has recovered from pneumonia. Sister Gordy being relieved by Sister Glas- gow, later relieved by Sister Anderson. The balance of donations received from the brothers and sisters for the mimeograph machine was turned into the division fund. Local Chairman Ranger can now keep the membership fully advised of matters we are all interested in. Let’s all assist him in whatever way we can. Cert. 481. Montana Division — There are now employed on this division, covered by our schedule, 169 who classify : 149 members and 20 alibi hunters. In the forty days I have had the division records I have added nine new certificate numbers to the seniority list, two received in time to Include when printing of the llBts, and seven which were given in my circular of March 16th. Amend your lists by scratching there- from H. K. Lake, Sylvia Carll. C. C. Field Tacoma Division — Bro. Grover, third Nisqually, now on first Steilacoom, and Bro. Andrews on second Puloda, two new positions. Latter reliev- ing Bro. F. T. Wright. Rochester second closed. Bro. Gaudette bumped Bro. Smith, third Centralia, who bumped Bro. “Scotty” Neal at Reservation back to Chambers Prairie. Bro. Andrews later relieved Bro. Neal, third Chambers Prairie, who relieved Bro. Robey on second while he had the Digitized by Google

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528 The Railroad TELEGRAPHER. “flu/* Bro. Grover, Steilacoom. off several days with It also. Bro. Wpyand, agent Rochester, relieved by Bro. Jakw&y, and Bro. T. B. McMahon, Aberdeen Junction, relieved by Wilson Lowery, recently returned from British army service in Prance and has asked for application papers. Bro. R. E. Goodwin, agent Lebara, very ill from nervous collapse is off indefinitely. We hope for a speedy recovery. Sister Wheeler, second Montesano, is away on business, relieved by Sister Swisher. Bpo. Bradbury, "WR,” is now on dis- patcher’s extra list and we wish him suc- cess. He is mighty fine to work with. Bro. Sherwood and wife, who were both ill with “flu” East, are back at American Lake. Sister Sowders, third Napavine, is sick, re- lieved by Sister Harler. Things are beginning to look favorable in regard to our back pay checks. Will appreciate any notes you care to send me. Send in care U. S. Mail Steilacoom un- til further notice as I am now on the extra list. Ellin C. Bryan, Cert. 1621. Wheeling & Lake Erie R. R., Div. 55. Bro. Schulenberger In dispatcher's office, succeeded on third “D” Brewster by C. P. Jones, a new man. Bro. Lucas bid in sec- ond Norwalk Yard; Mrs. L. H. Hartzell, sec- ond Kemery; Bro. C. D. Smith, third Kent; C„ D. Stipp, second Somerdale; J. A. Keith, Minerva agency; Bro. B. H. Betton, first Mingo yard, and O. L. O’Dell, third Jewett Bro. Gruber, Hartville, off sick; Bro. F. C. Ames, third Homestead, off with pneumo- nia, relieved by Myers from Hartland, re- lieved by Bro. Roe from "MC” Toledo and that office closed; Bro. H. F. Larker, Massil- lon, off sick, office closed, no operators. Bro. Graham, third Bolivar, off sick, re- lieved by Miss Bess Peoples; Bro. Teuscher, from "O” office, relieved Clyde Fulton, East End, while he relieved Dispatcher Goodrich, off sick. Second Limestone also closed, Bro. D. L. Ames off on account of the sick- ness of his son, Bro. F. C. Ames. Bro. O. C. Steadman on second Canton Yard and third Kent a few days, later re- lieved Sister Mary McFee, third Falls Junc- tion, off sick. Bro. C. M. Gregory on third Canton Yard several weeks, later opened third Limestone. Cert. 818. Nashville, Chattanooga & 8t. L., Div. 57. NaahviUe Division — Sunday, March 14th the P. A M. and Nashville divisions held their regular monthly meeting at Huntingdon, Bros. Ar- nold and Hall, our new general and local chairmen, being present. Bro. J. R. Pitts of that place made a very interesting welcome address. Bro. Han was elected chairman and Bro. 8. E. Whltehorn of the P. A M. Division, secretary and treasury. Bro. Arnold made a splendid talk, inform- ing us that our contract was still In effect and that Wage Board No. 8 had granted the minimum rate of pay to employes at non- telegraph positions, where they had been required to send car reports and handle other message work over wire, retroactive as of October 1st, 1918, which will give them a voice in’ the many interesting things now taking place as well as quite a needed sum in back pay. The meeting was well attended by mem- bers of both divisions. Every one enjoyed It immensely and found it very instructive , and helpfql. The ladies are attending these meetings, boys, so you better come and get acquainted. The Nashville Division has only three or four nons, the P. & It Division two. but the Chattanooga Division’s per cent is not quite as good. We congratulate the mem- bers of the Atlanta and Huntsville Divisions for being 100 per cent as usual. Let’s keep after our few nons until we win. Former General Chairman Hamilton, forced to resign owing to ill health. left Nashville, March 14th, for California. We sincerely hope he will soon regain his health, resume on second “UD” and enjoy the good things he has helped us win. We realize the difficulties he had to overcome In securing our first contract, which pre- vented him handling our grievances « promptly as we may now expect. Our local chairman will be located at 444 Fourth and First National Bank Building. Nashville, after March 89th, while negotiat- ing with the management for a new con tract Cmbt. 114. Huntsville Division— The only nons holding schedule positions on this division are the two at Attalla and Alabama City. Keep after them until they line up with the rest of us. Our new general chairman, Bro. W. R Arnold,, of Lexington. Tenn., P. A M. DM* sion, will shortly set dates for regular meet- ings. Bro. Hamilton’s health obliged him to resign as general chairman. Bro. Arnold was in Washington several days In out be- half. When he comes to our division for s meeting turn out in full force. That Is the place to state our grievances and get mat- ters straightened out. Local Chairman Harris, off several days on account of the illness and death of Ws sister, was relieved by Shrader, a new man. who later relieved Bro. W. O. Smith while he attended the safety meeting, and ** D. J. Sparkman on a short leave. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 529 Bro. R&fcm relieved Bro. 8. 8. Dlbrell >0 days. Bros. O. B. Hunter and Campbell were off a few days. Bro. W. C. Brown, first dispatcher, and wife visited Mobile, Ala., and New Orleans; Bro. A. P. Jones, second dispatcher, and Sisters Johnson and Nichols spent a week in Huntland recently, and Bro. McAfee was a recent New Market visitor. Bro. Talley's family has recovered from their recent illness. The decision of Wage Board No. 3 gave this road 26 positions that the management classed as non-telegraph agencies. Smartts, Howell, Rowland and Quebeck on this divi- sion go into our schedule at 48c for eight hours and time and a half after eight hours, drawing back pay from October 1st, 1918, running up around 360,000 for twenty-six em- ployes, which we would never have secured without the O. R. T. Don't let anyone run your organization down, for no sane man can truthfully say that our advanced con- ditions over two years ago are not directly due to the efforts of the officials of the Order, and in the near future we are ex- pecting something else. Qet the spirit and use it every day in your speech and actions. Treat your patrons kindly and courteously. Explain our conditions and they will soon be for us instead of against us.1 Never lose an opportunity to boost the O. R. T. What it has already done for us should be enough to hold your membership the rest of your life. Our regular meeting at Sparta was well attended, although nine were absent on ac- count of sickness, ‘it was opened by Local Chairman Harris. Sister Simpson was elected secretary and Bro. H. L. Sparkman, treasurer. General Chairman Arnold, Local Chairman Harris and Bro. R. E. Whitman made talks and there was an open discus- sion on different topics. Hope all will at- tend these meetings regularly. Cxrt. 229. W. and A . Division — Bro. Penn Mitchell, off a few days with a sore hand, was relieved by Bro. H. L. Flynn, and he by Bro. J. E. Flynn. Lynaro Joint discontinued. Bro. Echols bid In second "DA,” Bro. Hester rolled Bro. Jones, second "J"; Bro. Henslee bid in third Dalton. Bro. Franklin, on six months' leave, re- lieved by Bro. New. "QN" opened up again, 9 a. m. until 6 p. m. Several new extras on the list now. See If they have cards. If not, remind them of our slogan, "No card, no favors ” Brothers, come to the meetings. It will do too good. That's the place to talk things oyer and state youf grievance. Some of you boys on North End try and oevne little more often. "BO," Cert. 12. Louisville & Nashville R. R„ Dlv. 58. Henderson Division — A very interesting meeting was held at Guthrie, Ky.( on the night of March 6th, the membership being well represented by 42 live wires from the Henderson and Mem- phis Divisions. Bro. Dunn of the Grand Division gave us an interesting lecture along educational lines, and all were much benefited by hav- ing heard him. General Chairman Bryant followed In one of his characteristic talks, giving much good advice as to the work ahead In keep- ing the division up to its present high standing. We then had some other excellent talks, which brought out the spirit and feeling of the membership. The meeting adjourned at 1:26 a. m. We have a number of mem- bers on the Henderson Division who could attend these meetings by sacrificing a little time and sleep, who should do so, as they would be greatly benefited by getting ac- quainted with their fellow workers and hearing what is going on. Local Chairman JoneB desires to thank every member on the division for their able assistance in the February drive, which put our membership on this division in fine shape. Bro. Fo'ster, second Springfield, on sick list, relieved by J. H. Brown from E. K. Division, who will soon line up. Bro. Dowden, agent Greenbrier, attended court several days recently. Sister Petrie, Guthrie, was relieved a week by Extra Oldham, and Bro. CarneaJ . Guthrie, a few days, by Butler. Bro. Morgan, chief operator Guthrie, re- lieved by Bro. L. Wimberly, is now on third there. Bro. L. S. Jackson bid in Earllngton agency, succeeded at Nortonville agency by Bro. R. O. Oldham, formerly agent at Mor- ton, and working here in various other capacities before going with the I. C. sev- eral years ago. Let us all strive to give the company a square deal and an honest day's work, and In that win commendation for our organi- zation. Be sure you have a real grievance before taking It up with our local chairman, as he works an eight-hour trick the same as we do, and a busy one at that, so don't put any unnecessary work on him. We are indeed fortunate in having so ablo a man to represent us in that position, therefore we should all help to make his duties as light as possible, so that we may keep him where he is, the right man in the right place. Digitized by Google

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530 The Railroad Telegrapher. I am indebted to Bro. Jones for notps again, and would be glad to have others send in a few. J. N. J., Cert. 610, Nashville Division — Bro. Pitt displaced at Franklin, Tenn., took second Hendersonville, vice Bro. Louthan to second Montfort, Bro. Kelly going on extra board. Bro. Floyd bid in third Henderson- ville and Bro. J. M. Harshaw, third Chapek Hill. Bro. Deasy has returned to third Port- land after several months' illness. We are sorry to hear of his father’s death. The brothers at Franklin, Ky., doubled sev- eral days while Bro. Hlghbaugh was down with the “flu," and Bros. Woodard and Beas- ley at North Athens, two days while Bro. Witt was sick. It is now Bro. Phelps at Memphis Junction and Bro. Graef at Montfort. Boys, keep after Galloway at the former office. This is now one of the best paid up divi- sions on the L. & N. We must help our local chairman to continue for the 100 per cent and keep after C. A. Coggin and C. H. Biggs, agent and ticket agent first Lewisburg. Re- member, “No card, no favors .’’ Continue to be loyal members so that the O. R. T. can protect your position. Show the company by a 100 per cent ability that we are better employes since joining the Order. Let’s show our appreciation for what has been accomplished by giving our union offi- cials our full support. Cert. 2221. Memphis Line — Bro. G. T. Garner, agent Erin, has been appointed local chairman for the Memphis Division north of Paris, “CM," “CP" and O. & N. Division. Let’s all give him our hearty co-operation and make this one of the most up-to-date parts of Division 68. Bro. “ES" Wheatley is at Princeton Junc- tion days, vice Bro. Bland who relieved Bro. Holly a few days on a trip to Cumberland City. Bro. Marr, agent Stewart, bid In second Clarksville passenger station, succeeded at Stewart agency by Bro. Leake. Bro. Leegan is now back on third “BR," where he can spend his Sunday afternoons out on graveyard street. Bro. Harvell, off a few days on a flivver trip to Memphis. Bro. Bell is now on third “ON," vice Sister Lindsey. Bro. Jacobson off a few days sick, relieved by Sister Lindsey, and Bro. Clary a week with the “flu," relieved by Bro. Davidson. Brothers, send us some notes for the write- up each month. B. and XN.. Cert. 2163 and 147. Kentucky Division — Bro. J. K. Maret with his entire family ana* half a dosen others have been down with the “flu." Bro. Chas. Jackson is very sick with small- pox. Local Chairman Davis was in Louisville several days, relieved by Sister Anna Davie, and Bro. White, third Richmond, several nights by Bro. Collins. Sister Ruttle is work- ing the message circuit at “JX" Paris. Bro. J. W. Jackson bid in third Livingston, putting him back home again; Bro. Chaa Johnson, second Shearer; Bro. Payne, second Wildie ; Bro. Pergrem, third Cynthiana ; Bro J. F. Johnson, first, and Bro. W. S. Beldoo, third Flanagan; Sister Rich relieving at Shearer and Flanagan while changes are be- ing made. It will only take you a minute to call me on the wire and give me the news, and keep after the “nons" next to you. Thanks to Bro. Roebuck for the notes he sent in. J. B. P., Cert 786. Louisville Terminals— Not seeing anything in the journal from the terminals for some time, I called our local chairman, inquiring who was the cor- respondent, and he advised me right away that I WAS IT. so I will do my best Let me hear from You brothers when you have any news of interest Bro. Geo. Wright is back after several weeks, and Bro. Reinhart after a few days’ illness. Ames, first “TJ“ Tower, was on sick list several days. Bro. Lee Green, third “MN" Tower, was relieved by Bro. Griffith a few days cm ac- count of the sickness of his brother. One of our dispatchers brothers paid me a short call recently. We are glad to §* them any time. Bro. W. T. Carter, “FX" Tower, relieved a few days by Bro. W. N. Fane, Pine Hill- The station grounds at Baxter avenue look fine since they got all fixed up. Louiavilie terminals are noted for the neat appearance of the station grounds, offices and towers. Just a few minutes each days keep every- thing neat, makes a more pleasant place to work and helps take away the office grouch before you get back home. Be on the job, boys, keep ’em rolling. Lets have as few delays at our towers as posa- ble. Ckt. St. Louis Division^- I am going to try and have a few n otm monthly In Thi Telegrapher, and would like to have you all send me all the news items possible. Bro. Vaught succeeds Franks on first "DX. Bro. H. C. Youngs, third Belknap, has a big fine boy. Bro. Wallace is on second "VR;" 8toW Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 531 Eads on second "Q,” and Bro. W. R. Brown and Franks on second and third Maunie. The meetings at "MN" and "VR" were very successful* everyone had a good time. Quite a number of members reported and “NONS” getting scarce. They will soon be singing: “Nobody KnowB and Nobody Seems to Care.” Let’s try and get them all before we stop. Henderson Division reports 101 per cent. Let's try and beat them, they now have one more member than positions. We are very proud of our “Sisters” on this division, and hope to have the ladles all in before we stop. We are glad to see McLeansboro 100 per cent again. We must make them all that way. Everyone try to get a “NON” next month and we will soon do it. Send me your notes before the 20th, so I can get them to St. Louis before the 25th. “MC,” Cert. 142. “Santa Fa" Ry., Dlv. 61. Coast Lines — Brothers, try to land the four remaining nons. A little personal work by each one of us will secure their memberships. “No card, no favors” works wonders when properly ap- plied. Mrs. L. B. Smith, formerly Francis Knis- kern, former apprentice Fresno relay office and daughter of Mrs. J. B. Kniskern, agent Perea, New Mexico, succumbed to influenza January 28th. Mrs. Bullock, formerly Miss Stoflfers, as apprentice with Mrs. Smith, who nursed her during her last illness and was very low for some time, was convalescent last report. Agent Wright, Parlier, who was also down with the “flu.” is on the mend. The wife of Relief Wire Chief Horan at Fresno is also recovering from an attack of the malady. F. M. Elliott, Fresno relay, relieved 30 days by E. Harlan, Jr. Night Wire Chief Holder, Fresno, has purchased a flivver. Relief Agent Jack Dold goes with the traffic department with the return of the roads to private ownership. C. B. H.. Cert. 1934. Los Angeles Division — Nons Hill, Kahl and Bohannon have re- signed, but there are still a few left. Line them up, boys. The time is close for the test between labor and capital and we must be 10(1% strong to meet any difficulties that may arise. There Is no consideration given labor for individual rights. We must not liBten to the daily press to tell us what is right. It is labor's ' worst enemy, because it is controlled by capital. If those working with or near you are not nons, they may be delinquents. See that they get an up-to-date card at once. If one of them says: “I haven't received mine yet," tell him to remember that our motto. “No card, no favors,” means delinquents as well as nons. Live up to it and you will see better results in organization work. Bro. Kline, agent Linda Vista, off sick, relieved by Bro. Bruce. Bro. Bowlsby, Oceanside, found It rather difficult to locate a house, the tourists oc- cupying the best available ones. Arnett, Camp Kearny, is still steaming around in his Ford. The only card he possesses is a license to operate a “Henry." This won’t get him anywhere If he happens to have a grievance he wants settled. San Diego office seems to have too many nons. Brothers, get busy there. Sullivan is good material to begin on. Cert. 438. Arizona Division — The local chairman wishes to thank the members for the liberal response to the cir- cular letter sent out February 22nd to raise money for a floral design for Bro. Ford’s baby daughters who died at Goffs February 20th. We paid out $10.50 for the design and still have a good surplus set aside, estab- lishing a regular floral fund. Our sincere sympathy is extended to Bro. and Mrs. R. L. Ford in their hour of sorrow. They de- sire to thank us for our kindness, express- ions of sympathy and the beautiful floral offering. It looks good to see all the new men lining up. You all know who the four old nons are. Nearby members should interview them personally and give them no rest until they join. Bro. Ramirez is going back to the Lob Angeles division. Bro. A. L. Fries, Rice, Cal., displaced Sister Inman on Yucac second. Bro. Williams Is going into the poultry business. Bro. Jordan Is back at Drake after a se- vere case of “flu.” Mail your notes to me at Goffs. R. A. Vawter, Cert. 3106. Rio Grande Division — In the March issue of the Santa Fe Em- ployes Magazine, page 52, President Storey advises that the rules and working condi- tions established by the Railroad Adminis- tration shall be continued under private con- trol. There is no argument left for the few nons among us to not join now. So remem- ber, “No card, no favors.” If you have a delinquent with or near you advise him to get up-to-date at once. Bro. Vick Engel, agent Socorro, after re- turning from Colorado, where he buried his sister, took sick with the “flu” and was re- lieved by Bro. Cunningham, who later re- signed, relieved by Bro. R. A. John from Magdalena. “Vick” has our heartfelt sym- pathy. Bro. Cronin, Socorro, is in Santa Fe hospital also with the “flu.” relieved by Bro. Digitized by Google

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532 Thb Railroad Tklkoraphbr. Reynolds, waiting adjustment of first and second Doming. Back pay for agents at Socorro, Magda- lena and San Marcia! that was classified im- properly under Supplement IS, has finally been allowed and will be paid soon. These brothers have a nice bunch oomlng that was earned long ago. No adjustment given to second and third Engle, as it's claimed they are telephone jobs. They will always be such as long as you brothers prefer doing telegraph work on telephoners* pay. Wake up! Bro. Andreas relieved Bro. Nelms on third Rincon, who relieevd Sister Blanche Knight on second there ten days* Bro. Jones, Bayard and Bro. Yocum, Silver City. Sunday work cut off. All dressed up Sundays and no place to go, contemplate leaving the "High Line.’* It is rumored that separate seniority is contemplated for stations south of State line, being under private control, and in- dependently operated as the R. G. E. P. S. P. This will be fought to a finish. Bro. Mono- hans not sent to his asslgnfent at Canutillo on this account. (Some more back pay.) Regret to hear of the Illness of Bro. Mc- Cabe's mother. He is being relieved by Mrs. Mitchell. Bro. Long, relieved temporarily at Socorro by Bro. Garrett, has gone to second Barr to farm on the side. Csbt. 3409. Slaton Division — Local Chairman Hardy has returned from a p enjoyable three weeks’ trip to California, and Bro. Duke, second Post, has also re- turned from a short vacation. Bro. Young, agent Muleshoe, was in Lub- bock recently purchasing household furnish- ings. This looks suspicious. Bro. A. N. Hart, recently reinstated, re- lieved Bro. Lamm at Lorefizo Agency, who took the relief agency. There is quite a shortage of operators on this division, particularly ’phoners. Bros. Haynes and Newton were off few days recently with slight attacks of pneu- monia. General Chairman High has promised to visit with us shortly and hold a meeting, tho date and place to be announced later. All endeavor to be present. Still have a few delinquents. Our slogan, **No card, no favors," should be rigidly en- forced on them as well as the none. Don’t forget to send me your notes by the fifteenth of each month. "CD," Cert. 649. Northern Division — Bro. Nettles, Gainesville, writes that he has worked with some fifteen operators re- cently, including a local chairman and chal- lenged them all. Not one was able to re- spond. ▲ new man, who worked all ovs the line about two months ago, was never "tried out" once to see If he was up-to- date. Our motto, "No card, no favor*1* might just as wen be cut out as far as such members are conoerned. Bro. Nettles says he received a note from a non agent recently begging to send him some stationery. He folded back the cor- ner of the note and wrote on it: "No card, no favors," and has not been bothered with him since. Brothers, wake up! Head up on the os- written work and you won’t have to ask the man you are working with whether he to up-to-date. Be ready to give any Uve O. R. T. man the response as quick as he hits you with It, and use the code on new men sa fast as you find one. If he don’t as the wire test "Pronto," get after him. Don’t leave It for the local chairman or anyone else to line him up. Do it yourself. The O. R. T. officials are working hard for us to try and get us a decent living wage and better working conditions. We must stand behind them and line up the few none still left on this division. If one of these fellovs asks a favor give him the wire test and If he don’t respond give him "No card, no favors." Keep this up persistently and the nons will soon become members. Bro. R. D. Cox, on second Paris, relieving Busby, also relieved Bro. Shapman, Fkrm- ersville, a few days. Three or four of our boyB have been In Temple hospital recently. Don’t forget to find out if any of the boys you work with are in arrears. If so. see that they remit at once to V. A. Gendron. Room 818, Drexel Bank Building, Chicago, HI. The latter part of 1919 Division 81 had more paid-up members than scheduled posi- tions. Let's help to keep up that record. The force In ‘'NET' was reduced March 1st to four “ops" and three wire chiefs, but there has been no reduction in business. Assistant General Chairman Braun was in Washington the latter part of February with other genera] chairmen trying to get our In- crease through. He returned via Chicago and was member of the committee that checked up the Genera] Secretary and Treas- urer’s reports, finding them in tip-top shape T. P. Cannon, Cert. 1148, P. O. Box 847, Marietta, Oktou Members Oklahoma Division — Having been appointed local chairman I have named as assistants M. F. Alaup aai Guy Casslty, Guthrie; C. L. Braxton, NaA: J. E. Ye nxer, Ripley, and F. B. Hudsoa Cushing, Okla. They will render all the as- sistance possible In case of grievance* tor* warding the Information relative thereto to me for handling with the superintofidtol Digitized by Google

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Tax Kailboad TmjjdRAPmm 538 0«r official, here are fine man and I do not taller* any of thorn would knowingly deviate , from our agreement, but at times there la a difference of opinion, and we need to keep a close check upon all matters affecting our salaries or conditions and firmly contend for what our schedule calls for. There are a few yet on this division not affiliated with ua but the assistant local chairman will no doubt soon line them up. Solicit the new men coming here for their applications the first time you come in con- tact with them and turn them over to the nearest assistant local chairman or send to me at Guthrie. Bro. C. L. Braxton, Nash, Ok la., is our correspondent. Send him your notes In time bo he can compile an article for the Journal and get It to St. Louis before the 25th of each month. A chain Is only as strong as its weakest link, therefore let us stand together. D. B. Southern. Oklahoma Division Notes — Bro. R. M. Lunsford bid In Payson Agency, succeeded at Vanoss Agency by Bro. P. G. Smith, and Bro. L. O'Connor took car dis- tributor, Arkansas City, leaving both relief Jobs open. Bro. D. B. Southern, at Vanoss Agency for sixty days, who took one of the relief agencies, has been appointed local chairman of this division. Let's all help him to make It 100 per cent. Now is the time for us to stick together. Bro. R. A. Weber, agent Red Rock, was obliged to take his wife to Enid Hospital. Bro. Carson back at Burlington after thirty days* sojourn in California. His relief, Bro. Ward, went to Ralston. Bro. Arnett, relieving at Farmont, is now at Blanchard relieving Bro. Lobdell for sixty days. Bro. L» V. Irwin bid In Fairmont Agency, ▼ice Bro. C. F. Rogers, who bid in operator and ticket clerk Enid, and Bro. J. F. Long- pine bid on claim clerk there. Cert. 278S. Panhandle Division — Bro. L. B. Moore Is back on second Way- noka Yard. He was injured in an automo- bile accident January 17th. He desireB to express his thanks and appreciation to all who remembered him during his recovery. Bra V. R. Cobb has gone to the Frisco. Bra Majors has also resigned and gone to Kansas City, relieved by Bro. Fields on third Kiowa. Quite a number of our good brothers have been off with the "flu." Fortunately all have returned but one. Ye, brothers on branches, try and send me something to have a good write-up each month. "8.” Cert. 987. Queen & Creeoent North, Dlv. 92. A. G, 8. Division — Bro. Hardens tie, Irondale Junction, is off on acoount of his mother's illness. Bro. J. A. Johnson promoted to agent Liv- ingston, vice G. F. Capps, deceased, was succeeded by Bro. R. B. Cary on second there. Bro. "Bill" Seibert, extra dispatcher, has returned from a trip to Oklahoma after look- ing over his oil lands. Local Chairman Pearce has returned from Heplin, Ala., where he went recently on ac- count of his son's illness. We are glad to hear of his recovery. It is now Bro. "Bill" Jones of Springvllle, Ala. Keep up the good work, brothers; will will soon be 100 per cent. Cert. 194. Great Northern Ry., Dlv. 70. Dakota Division — Sister Walker, third Moorhead, also Bro. Keck, Doyon Agency, were recent Grand Forks visitors. G. W. Woodruff and wife, St. Paul Re- lay, brothers and sister-in-law, respectively, of "Ye Scribe," spent several days at Grand Forks returning from California. Bro. BJelde bid in Grand Forks Relay. It is now Bros. Fowler. Hanson and Hag- gerty; Bro. Hunter. Mallory; Bro. Smart at Larimore, and Sister Matthies at Derrick. Bro. Anderson, "PA" Tower, Is on a trip to Seattle and Spokane, relieved by Mr. Vig, from the Northern Division. Second and Devilslake Yard and third La- kota discontinued. Bro. Jones, first Larimore, off with the "flu," Bro. Smart relieving, relieved by Bro. Gray, Hillsboro. Ye scribe and Bro. BJelde rode the Elk's goat recently and enjoyed "the feed" after the ride. Brothers, send me your items to Box 441. Grand Forks, N. D. Woodie, Cert 848. Havre Division — Sister Kate Mitchell, married and keeping house for a Havre Division conductor, was relieved on third Pacific Junction by Bro. Upjohn. Bro. Geo. Allen, second Shelby, called to St. Paul owing to Mrs. Allen’s Illness, who is visiting relatives, was relieved by Sister Ernst. It is now Bro. Doran, agent Shelby. Sister McQuigg, Chester, spent several days in Great Falls recently shopping. Bro. V. J. Josephson, Brady, appointed as- sistant local chairman to fill vacancy caused by death of Bro. McAllister. Bro. Rich, agent Laredo, will now have charge of the line. Pacific Junction to Great Falls, and Digitized by Google

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534 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Josephson from Great Falls to Sweet Grass, Including Gilman and Pendroy branches. Members on these lines please ask them for any information; keep them posted on none* movements and send notes for Journal write-up. Bro. B laker, Carter, bid in Virgelle Agency. Bro. McKinsey, agent Box Elder, visiting East, relieved by Bro. Rich, and he by Bro. Baker, Laredo. Relief Agent Bailey, on six months’ leave trying out Havre freight office, relieved by Holmes. Bro. Gallagher, first *'KD” tower. Cut Bank, attending Scottish Rite Masonic meet- ing Great Falls, relieved by Bro. E. G. Doran. Local Chairman Walker advises that con- tributions for flower fund came In pretty good and we are now in fine shape. He will render detailed report to the membership soon. If you have not donated for this cause send him a dollar at once. In case of sick- ness notify Bro. Walker or assistants, who will see that flowers are sent. He is ex- pecting a call to St. Paul shortly for sched- ule work. The better we are lined up the better schedule we will get. A hint to the wise is sufficient. GET AFTER THE NONS. Cert. 1300. Butte Division — The roads going back to private ownership March 1st created several new positions, among which were three of our best agenoies, H. G. Ames, agent Havre, taking Butte; A. E. Carpenter, B. A. & P., Helena, and J. B. Russell, cashier Butte, took Lew- istown. These were supervisory Jobs not subject to seniority bids and appointments were made by the officials. Several brothers on this and on other divisions, however, bid on them. First Helena, Clancy and Lewis- town will take care of a few of the brothers on the extra board. Sister Bodner got third Gerber; Bro. Magner, first Judith Gap, and Sister Berg, second Armington. Bro. Epperson and Cosgriff on Sand Coulee Branch were both off with the “flu” sev- eral days. Bro. Ball, on sick list at Moc- casin, Bro. Brittian relieving. Bro. James off at Armington, Bro. Magner relieving. Sister Lewis, third Cushman, re- lieved a few days by Mrs. Ball. Bro. Lewis, at Dover, off thirty days look- ing for oil — hope he strikes it Brothers working alongside of nons keep after them until they sign up. Let’s make the division 100 per cent Bro. Moore has appointed me correspond- ent and I will do what I can if you will send me the notes and happenings at your offices. W. B. Magner. Montana Division — Brothers, turn to page 72 of the January Telegrapher and read the “Argument! Advanced By a Non,” calling himself ”A Loyal Employe.” You will then understand the attitude of the only two nons on this division, who are so wrapped up in the past (20 years ago) that the article fits them ex- actly. We hope they wake up to the fact that we are now In an advanced state of progressiveness and we will not be obliged to publish their names. A certain non agent on this division to endeavoring to influence his operators to drop out of the Order, and discouraging others from taking out cards. If you don’t know where he is located ask and do the necessary when the chance comes, which U will sooner or later. Bro. Grote, Buford, recently received wee- ding announcement of a former operator, Sister Havens, who was married in Arizona on the 18th of October. She is now living in Los Angeles, Cal. Congratulations and best wishes. It may be interesting to know that Sister Haven, who’ left here last year to have a serious operation performed, re- covered therefrom, was married in Arizona last October and Is now living in Los Ange- les, Cal. Congratulations and best wishes. First Culbertson taken off. Varnum, dis- placed by Wilcox on third, ' went to White- fish. Sister Shirley attended the basket ball tournament at Wolf Point, Bro. Owens re- lieving. Sister Olson, second Dodson, was relieved by Bro. Mohn while having some dental work done. Sister and Bro. Muller of Snowden were called to Iowa on account of sickness, re- lieved by Relief Agent Bro. Smith and Sister Johnson. Bro. Deem, Medicine Lake, is being re- lieved by Bro. Peterson of Antelope. Sister Myrtle© Dean is back on third Frazer after several weeks* visit In Lto Angeles. Sister Doreing is back on third Poplar after a long visit in Iowa. All articles for the fraternal columns of The Telegrapher should reach St. L*wto not later than the 25th to insure publica- tion the following month. I must have aD items sent to me not later than the 20th On account of government restrictions lim- iting the sise of our organ, the editor ha» discontinued printing in the fraternal eoi- uma "All Assignments/* “In Memoriama/* "Cards of Thanks*' and "Vacations.** » please discontinue sending me these itema The births, deaths and marriages should b« written on separate sheets in order to in«w* immediate attention and publication in lh« personal mention column. Cert. M- Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 536 Minn. A St. Louis R. R., Div. 71. Eastern Division — Bra W. L, Story* second Bartlett, on sick list; Sister Phipps has taken position with M. B. ft S. Hope she will continue with our division. Bro. Bryan, agent Abingdom, is being re- lieved by Bro. Melton. Bra Dodson, Ealenor, down with the “flu,” is improving and will go to Mon Yards, third, as soon as able. Bro. J. 8. Stanley, agent Kelthsburg, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Friend, and he by Bro. Mahoney on first there. Bro. Owens goes to Laurel agency as soon as Bro. Shaban returns to Winfield. Cramers is now a continuous office with Bra Matthews first, Bro. Bowton second and will soon be Bro. Reiman on third. Wright also a continuous office, Bro. Landfear, first, tors. Landfear, second, and Miss Mary Blair, third. We hope to soon have Miss Blair back with us. Little York now solid with Bros. F. C. and R. C. Bullemers, first and second, Bro. Hoben, third. Bro. L. C. Grieman takes Faulkner, and Bra McCullough, Dillon Station. Bro. Holmes, third Eldora. Your committee has secured General Chair- man Gardner’s consent to devote all his time to our interests for at least a few months. February 24th he signed up a supplement to our schedule, getting the increases due us by the interpretation of No. 8 to Supplement No. IS, with forty-two new positions, including linemen on the Central and Western Divi- sions. Ticket Agents Albert Lea and Oska- loosa, and is now in Minneapolis working on further correction to No. 8, which will be included, giving the brothers the back pay due them. The committee expects to ask for an equalization and adjustment of all rates as soon as matters settle down a bit. and then new amended schedules will be printed, including the supplemnts. This new inter- pretation of No. 8 affects only about one- third of our men, but we hope to soon have the adjustments made for the rest.' The in- terpretation is a good stepping stone for greater things. We sure appreciate the work Bro. Gardner la doing for our division, expect to have it 100 per cent July 1st, and hope conditions will develop so we may be able to secure him on full time. A man can’t fill two jobs and do either of them justice. To keep up with the Order’s work nowadays he must be on the job all the time. W. C. McLin, L. C., Richland, la. Central and Western Divisions— New members : R. H. Gleason, second Gowrie, Iowa; R. McNeeley, operator Des Moines, Iowa; C. R. Hamilton, Albert Lea, Minn. NON Agent Nelson at Manchester claims he cannot spare the money to join. We hope to have the applicant of Mr. Turner at Mallard, shortly. Bro. E. O. Marvel, third Gowrie, off ninety days, relieved by Bro. Gleason. We extend our heart/elt sympathy to Bro. O. S. Shoemaker, Gowrie, in the death of his youngest son Melvin. A floral wreath was sent in behalf of O. R. T. Division 71, for which Bro. Shoemaker and family wish to thank us. An annual report has been issued in book form by the General Chairman and General Secretary showing the standing of our divi- sion, if you have not received a copy, advise them. Bro. Johnson, agent Dana, was a recent visitor between trains at Pa ton. D. C. Spoor, our new traveling freight agent, was over the line recently, shaking hands with the brothers. E. C. Davis has ac- cepted the position of commercial agent at St. Paul. Not a single itfem was received from any one accept Bro. Sandmier, who is always on the job? Get busy, brothers, and send me some news. S. J. Boylb, Cert. 451, Paton, Iowa. Southern Pacific Ry., Atlantic Div. 72. Louisiana Lines— Boys, if you haven’t paid up your dues, remit at once. Now is the time we must stick together. Bro. Barberousse is working in "FY” while Bro. Long is dispatching. Miss Roy is working as agent at Naraud- ville during Bro. Poche’s illness. Agent Dugal was off a month during the illness of his wife, relieved by Boudreaux, a new man. Brothers, get the applications of these new men and make the division 100 per cent like “FY” Lafayette. Mrs. Hogg is still unable to work on ac- count of her eyes. Bro. Fincher, Mermentau, with the Stand- ard Oil Co. in Texas, was relieved by Bro. L. E. Walthers, his brother, Bro. W. A. Walthers taking Berwick agency. Bro. G. D. Mclntlre is going to Midland regularly now. Operators are very scarce now, offices be- ing closed daily, regular men sick and no one to relieve them. One of the old D. W. conductors, J. E. Lalande, died with the “flu,” March 12th. I failed to send in a write-up last month on account of the "flu” at home was kept busy nursing. Some of you boys send me some notes. I don’t always get all the news. Bro. Smith and I have gone in the poul- try business. If you need any pure bred Rhode Islands, let us know. Digitized by Google

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§36 The Rail bo ad Tblbohapheb. Bro. Roome has returned to work after a long Illness. Bro. Vonau is going to visit the mlr&ele man to see if he can restore the old time speed in his “mitt," as his wrist is going back on him. Bro. Church, "WS" New Orleans, can give you tips on the horses, If you have any money to lose. Bro. Avant from Jennings bid in Rayne Tower. The Elks minstrel of Lafayette was a great success. Bro. Mclntire being one of the principal actors. Dispatcher Carter is now passenger and freight agent, with headquarters at Lake Charles. Alexandria telegraph office wfl be opened as soon as operators can be found to go there. Czbt. 616. Hudson & Manhattan R. R., DIv. 74. On Friday, March 6th, we held a meeting at 114 West Fourteenth street, New York City, at 10 :S0 a. m. and 8 ?80 p. m. Chair- man H. Phelps, presiding. The morning meeting was attended by Bros. D. McGee, J. Donohue, S. Hillock, H. Phelps, P. Mono- ha n, R. Malley, H. Rushmeyer, J. Gilligan, J. Sheevers, J. McCann, Wm. Bams, Chas. Mathews, J. Scholz and the evening meet- ing by Bros. T. Sweeney, Wm. Besser, H. Phelps and J. Sheevers. On account of no quorum, no business was transacted at this session. Wake up, boys, and attend the eve- ning meetings, even though it does rain, it won’t hurt you to come out in It. The application of the Employment Bureau of the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, EL J. Manion, president, was shown to the brothers, and met with their approval. Adjustment Committee appointed by Com- mitteeman R. Gordon are Bros. T. Sweeney and J. Gilligan. Committee on by-laws chosen by Chairman H. Phelps are Bros. H. Hushmeyer, Stanley Hillock and Chas. Mathews. The morning meeting was a great suc- cess. Every brother had a smile when our chairman assured them that certain things were forthcoming, also as to the trip taken to Washington by our chairman and the news received therefrom. Meeting adjourned at 12 :46 p. m., as a majority of the brothers had to go home and dine in order to go on duty. I have heard of certain discontented re- marks in regards ' to Train Clerks. Now, brothers, the only place to have things of this kind thrashed out is at our meetings and not on the road, where everybody wlH contend with you, In order to be sympathetic for your case, so kindly discontinue this prac- tice, as it will bring nothing else but malice and discontentment among the brothers. Bro. C. Robb was relieved by Extra Tow- erman McIntyre; Bro. Britton by Resort Towerman J. Fitzpatrick ; Bro. K Phelps b y Extra Towerman McIntyre, and Bra H. Lacey by Reserve Towerman J. Schell, IQ due to sickness. Bros. C. Fellman and J. Gilllg are preky busy, due to the Illness of Towerman Stas- ias. The brothers have fallen down on sending In notes for our magazine. Herd your newi together and send them to me. Joseph Scholz, Cert ft Chicago & Northwestern R. R., DIv. 71 Chicago Terminal — The case of Bro. Jackson, former agent at Wheaton, has Anally been taken up by the General Committee expect to soon tee him back there and be paid for all time lost It was no easy matter to get this case voted into committee after It had been misrepre- sented in so many various ways, but it has been Anally accomplished, and the commit- tee voted 16 to 2 to sustain Bro. Jackson and got permission to meet the officials the next morning. This case sets a precedent on Division 76 and every member who does not understand it should get an explanation from his local chairman so there may never be a repetition. The regular Joint meetings held Man* 16th were both very poorly attended from a terminal standpoint, but there was enough visiting members at each session to mak> them like old time meetings. At the morning session Local Chairman Hanner. B. & O., gave ua an tntereking talk on combining all Chicago terminals Into one division. All present were In hearty accord with his views. At the evening meeting Bros. Dal Jones D. C. Smart, Boylngton and Scan! an gave o some very interesting remarks on unionism and education of the membership, while Bra Dunbar, West Chicago, Arst outlined a plan whereby the education, could be carried to each member. Sympathy Is extended to Bro. Geo. Con* in the loss of his father, a conductor on the Wisconsin Division, retired on pension sev- eral years ago. Bro. Geo. Cone painfully injured receotly when he slipped and fell down the stairway at Deerlng Depot. We are glad to see Bra Goff back on mTSn Arst, after a long selge of pneumonia; Bra Hawkind relieving. Bro. Geo. Kenney, Clinton street third, to back again after six weeks* absence, under- going an operation, relieved by Bro. Burns I did not get many notes for this write-up on account of being appointed corespondeat so late in the month, but hope to do tatter next month and hope you will give me *ny notes you are able to collect. Carr. 14tS Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 537 Lake 8hore Division — Bra Mike Pilger, third Cleveland, has re- signed on aoeount of having to do relief work while holding a regular Job. Bro. Tesky.’ third South Yard, was off sev- eral days, his family being sick. Bro. Sohre is back on South Yard first after being off on account of his family and self being sick. Bra Smith is back on Calumet Yard first after all his Illness and trouble, and Bro. Ed. Eineberger is back on second there after several days* illness. The brothers are smiling now as the new raise struck town and they expect their back pay in a few days. Brothers, do not forget the guy that writes. I am waiting for you alL R. J. Brick. Athland Division — A lot of our members have been worrying over Interpretation No. 8 to Supplement No. 11, but since we received the letter from Gen- eral Chairman Thomas, they are waiting for the new schedule to be issued. I can furnish a list of delinquents and “none” to any of the members who will try to line them up. Let me hear from you. Look at an operator's card before you take him at his face value, and enforce the “No card, no favors" motto, when necessary to get results. The North Bind ore Jobs will soon be opened. The mines expect to ship more ore this year than any in the past and a lot of our extra men will get summer positions. The way things look, the superintendent will soon be looking for a few good operators who will stick through the season. Bra E. P. Hoppe, who opened Fenwood nights, being bumped by Bro. G. J. Reed, re- lieved Bro. Ketter, agent Fenwood, who went to Milwaukee a few days, later relieving Bro. M. L. Mortality, Sugar Bush second, who bumped Bro. H. B. Thieme from third Mercer to extra Hat. Bro. W. B. Kuney, relieved Bro. W. Chel- lis. agent Phelps for a week, and Bro. W. J. Schilleman, third Watersmeet, who relieved Bra P. R. Mats, agent Tomahawk Lake, while sick two weeks, later displaced Bra L. A. Gehr, second Mercer. Bra J. C. Olkowski. third 8ummit Lake, visiting home for a month, relieved by Bro. J. D. VanBatenburg. . Bro. Kumbler, sedond Tigerton, on sick list a week, relieved by Bro. 7. Korblsh, who later relieved Bra Styba, second Wausau Junction, temporarily. Bra Bufke, first Eland, relieved a week by Bro. Angus, second Bland, relieved by Bro. A. Franske, Antigo. Bra C. R. Kreiser relieved Bro. Pickering, second New London, who secured Elmhurst **WsBfthaiik Bra A. B. Rydeskl. first Mercer. for helping out this time and wish a lot of you would acknowledge receipt of letters sent you asking for items. Local Chairman J. H. McDonough is always ready to help you out, why not help him when he asks you. "AS,” Cert. 1588. Madison Division — Bro. M. H. Keefe has resumed at Trem- pealeau, after a month's tussle with the “flu,” relieved by Bro. I. T. Sparling now at Tunnel City. Bro. E. H. Durkopp, Madison third, sick a few days, relieved by Bro. Jones, and he at Tower “MY” by Bro. J. C. Farrell. Bro. Hull, Adams Yard third, also off several days sick. Bro. Sparling, LaCrosse first, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Haee. Bro. Motsohenbacher, Trempealeau, owing to illness, relieved by Bro. H. A. Ware, Cly- man Junction. Bro. H. R. Plgg, Tower “RB” first, was relieved by Bro. J. J. Scbleck, and later owing to illness several days by Bro. L. A. Riedl, who later relieved Bro. Langenhan, third Reedsburg, while latter attended safety meeting, March 22nd. Bro. A. V. Lyle, Evansville second, re- lieved some time by Bro. J. A. Vaughn, is off again. Bro. Wyrembek, Friesland third, visited Milwaukee and his home at Mapleton, re- cently. Sister Voitl relieved Local Chairman Jenks at Dalton while he was down with pneu- monia, also while he attended committee meeting In Chicago and joint meeting at Milwaukee. While recuperating, he and Bro. H. W. Brown, agent Shennington, visited the writer. Bro. L. H. Holly has resumed at Evans- ville after a trip to California. Station helpers at Lodi, Waunakee and several other places are answering the dis- patcher's telephone and handling messages, etc., after the agent and operator Is relieved from duty. We must see that this is dis- continued. Bro. Smith, Blue Mounds agency, relieved Bro. Colton, agent Evansville, while absent recently. Bro. Wagner, agent South Randolph, at- tended oourt a few days, recently. Bro. PL C. Yahnke, dispatching at Adams and Baraboo, relieved at Adams Yard by Bra Wlseheart and he on side wire there by Bra J. Seaman. Bro. Bergholz, agent Mapleton, visited home several days recently. Bro. T. A Corcoran succeeded on Afton third, by Bro. J. A Vaughn, bid in second "B.” Bra Brown, agent Shennington, relieved several days by Miss Gladys Conklin. Digitized by Google

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538 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. W. H. Hansen, Baraboo, Is dispatch- ing at Chicago. Quite a number have not remitted for their local duet. I am Indebted to Bros. Wyrembek and Schuppener for items. Csrt. 917. Minnesota Division — Bro. W. F. Swanson, on a three days’ trip to Judson, relieved on Springfield first by Sister Haugen, who also relieved Bro. C. W. Schultz at Sanborn while visiting relatives at Plainview, and Sister LeMay at Dodge Center several days. Bro. J. D. Walkoski relieved at Water- town several days last month. Several of the brothers on the Middle Division and Watertown line had to take out engineers' license to run the steam heat- ing plants in the depots. Bro. Tom Wright, third New Ulm, can now find time to take a smoke, a caller and baggageman having been added to the force there. Bro. McGoon, Watertown, is now on sec- ond Sanborn. Bro Touer, third there, was off several days on account of sickness. Postmasters at several points on the division have received instructions to meas- ure the distance between the postoffice and depots with a view of putting on a regular mall carrier. A big safety meeting was held at Waseca. March 22nd, attended by most all the divi- sion officials, also General Superintendent Dailey of Huron, and several brothers. Bro. Jim Leary, Sleepy Eye third, re- cently purchased a Hup roadster. Sister L. A. Bohn was relieved recently at Burdette by Sister Landers, and Sister Leed went to Judson third several days pending Its assignment. I am indebted this month to Bros. Mur- phy of Mankato and Felix of Springfield for news and wish more of the brothers and sisters would get the habit. During these trying times in the labor movement, while our system representatives hre looking after our interests at Chicago and the grand officers at Washington, we should back them up with a solid mem- bership. Get it to 100 per cent and keep it there. They are entitled to our loyal sup- port and it Is up to us to see that they get it. D. J. M„ Cert. 178. Eastern Division — Chief Train Dispatcher Plants at Chad- ron has resigned and invested in oil busi- ness at Rushvllle. Assistant Chief Howard Smith from Norfolk promoted. We are all glad to see Howard get it. Our items from this division last month were read by some of the old-timers on this division when it was the Fremont, Elkhom & Missouri Valley R. R. Lee Northtngton, who worked on this division about 20 yon ago, wrote me from Helena, Mont., where he is employed by the Western Union, and asked about all the old-timers. Also F. T. Cranor, formerly operator at Creighton, wrote me from Herman, Neb., where he is working for the C., St. P., M. & O. Railway, having recently returned from military service, . doing nearly two years “over there." Bro. Peterson's wife, in Omaha Hospital, is improving steadily and expects to soon return home. Rutledge, third Newport, was off two weeks with the "flu." Bro. Cushman, agent Hooper, has re- turned from California, where he has been spending the winter. Bro. Tom Hutton had a letter from Bro. Sharp, agent Inman, who has been off six months, saying he would be back May 1st Bro. Johnson, agent Humphrey, has re- signed to enter a bank at Stuart. Did not receive a word from anyone this month. I would be glad to have any or all of you send me some items. C. J. Smith, Cert. 274S, Inman, Neb. Peninsula Division — Automatic block signals will be installed between Duck Creek and Escan&ba this coming summer. Bro. Faber, second Marinette, has resigned to go in the confectionery business at Green Bay Junction. Bros. W. R. Brukardt, agent, and C, G. Johnson, second Wilson, down with the “flu," relieved by Bros. H. J. Kell and A J. Pecord. Bros. F. J. Perra, second Narenta, and R. E. Patrie, third Hermansville, on sick list relieved respectively by Bros. L R. Nelson and N. J. Payton. Bro. C. Larson, agent Nadeau, relieved by Bro. F. B. Piche a few days, relieved on third Oconto by Bro. R. I* Vachon. Bro. A. L. Gunville, second Bagiey, is be- ing relieved by Bro. R. L. Vachon while his grievance is being handled. The new rates of pay have been issued, effective Oct. 1st, 1918, in accordance with the provisions of Interpretation Ne. 8 To Supplement No. 18 to General Order Na 2T. If you find a mistake In your increase, look it up and have it applied. J. E. ifeaNana, Cert. <08. Texas & Pacific fly., Dlv. 88. Louisiana Division (Bast) — The ten, fifteen and twenty-year service annua] passes have been mailed oat and should be In the possession of all the mes entitled to them by thta time. Local Chairman Krebs, relieved by Bro. Lorio, called to Weatherford to assist to auditing the books of Division No. 88. re* Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 539 ports them In tip-top shape and that our Secretary-Treasurer Can l fax should be con- ir&tulated on his food work. Bro. Porrler has returned to second V&cherie sufficiently recovered to work. Owing to the scarcity of operators and signalmen, McCall second and third were closed several days while Bro. Chambless relieved Bro. Parker, third Waggaman, on account of sickness, and Bro. Landry re- lieved Bro. Boudreaux, agent Batchelor, who went to Crowley agency. Through error Bro. J. O. Green, agent Port Allen, was listed as a non. His mem- bership certificate is No. 715. Our second division meeting was held at Addis, Sunday, Feb. 22nd. at 2:30 p. m., with the following members present: Booksh, L. J. and G. W. Walther, Marsallis, Bondy, Lorio, Boe, Palmer, LeBlanc, Por- rler, Vicknair, Bergeron, Boudreaux, Trux- illo, Tlcac, Local Chairman Krebs and Local Chairman Nash from West End Louisiana Division. Local Chairman Nash addressed the mem- bership on request for a joint meeting to be held in Addis covering both endB of the Louisiana Division, which he and Bro. Krebs arranged to hold. Local Chairman Krebs and Bro. Marsallis spoke on the Cummings-Esch bill, labor and politics, which was very interesting and en- joyed by all. Bros. Holmes and Lorio gave us quite a lengthy talk on abiding by our contract, cit- ing several Instances in which it was not lived up to, which Bro. Krebs will have re- cited. I was unable to attend owing to the train situation as I could not make the trip with- out asking for relief. Hope to attend all the ethers and would like to see a better show- ing at next meeting. Let's pull together on that particular thing. Bro. Holmes, second Addis, sick a few days, was relieved by Bro. Miller, and he on second Plaquemine by Bro. LeBlanc. D. C. Mattingly, Cert. No. 840, DonaldsonvUle, La. Eastern Division — No notes received this month. Come on, boys, wake up. Let's have a write-up every month. You brothers in “GO" send me your notes. Local Chairman DeWane was in Weath- erford a few days looking after our inter- ests. Dispatcher M. C. Wilkins and G. M. John- ston are new members. Welcome, brothers Keep after the nons, boys. Every mem- ber see If he can’t secure a new member or more. Make this division 100 per cent strong. General Secretary and Treasurer Canafax attended the national wage meeting at Washington on account of General Chair- man Abney having a serious attack of the “flu." Bro. Mallory. Division 19, has left Mar- shall to work for the N. Y. C. We wish him every success.' Extra Caldwell relieved him. Bro. C. R. Tucker, extra dispatcher, visited Dallas recently. Fonke and Hosston nights have been dis- continued. I was off several days while ill and visited in Dallas, and Bros. Boone, Johnston and Hollowell doubled. Bro. Brew ton from A. C. L. contemplates taking a fishing trip. Wants to borrow some sinkers. Some brother who has a supply fix him. “O. B." V. C. Ray, Cert. 610, Marshall, Tex. West End, Fort Worth Division — Bro. T. R. Thomason to Gordon first, vice Bro. Herndon resigned; Bro. Thomason to Putnam second, vice firo. Rushing resigned; Bro. F. P. Edwards, E. P. S. W. on Wiles second, vice Sister Ellenberger to first; F. A. Love, a new man, on West Yard third, vice Bro. Lewis to Palestine as night chief dis- patcher. Bro. Thomas Stevenson, Division 17, re- lieving Bro. Machir, West Yard first, has gone with the Western Union. Bro. Stover reinstated and given Mingus third, displacing Bro. Maples, relieving Bro. Cornick, Santo third, resigned. Bro. Read, visiting on Joint Track, re- lieved on Weatherford second by Bro. Ford. Sister Hazel Becknell bumped Peters from Tiffin third, and Bro. McCoy, Joint Track, bumped Love from West Yard third. Cert. 6S2. Joint Track, Fort Worth Division — Sister Cogdeli, to Collinsville second, vic6 Bro. Willoughby, gone West 90 days for his health. Bro. Jennings relieved on Tioga first and third and Pilot Point second. Sister Bond bid in Aubrey first, and Bro. Wingo, Argyle second. Newman Nichols reinstated with full seniority. See that he keeps his promise te line up first pay day. R. L. Dxnton, Cert 682. Rio Grand Division — Old yard office, "AC" El Paso, has been reopened with Bros. Montgomery, Frame and Wasson back on their old jobs. J. O. Darnell succeeded Trainmaster John- son, who has been appointed general agent at El Paso. Bro. F. Gibson occupied the "cushions" with the wrecking crew recently sent to the derailment near Meta. The Pecos oil fields are creating quite an Digitized by Google

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540 The Rail ho ad Telegraphs*. excitement. Officials, trainmen and even operators are becoming “oil magnates.** Understand Bro. Chatham, first Toyal, is very successful dealing in oil in and around the Toyah and Pecos fields. Little “Wart** Murdock, third B. G. Big Spring, was off several days representing the O. R. T. in the oil fields. Here*s luck to all interested, may some day be able to dictate to the other fellow. Bro. Jno. Sharman, first Roscoe, off on sick list a few days, relieved by a new man. New positions will be created shortly and it is your duty to be up-to-date when con- sulting the local chairman in regards to such matters. Boys, send your notes to me in time so J can get them to St. Louis by the 26th of each month. I have only received a few from either end of the division. Let’s hear from everybody, everywhere, at any time. C*RT. 727. Buffalo, Roch. & Pittsburgh Ry., Dlv. 92. Pittsburgh Division — You brothers who are sick or who have considerable sickness in the family, notify your local chairman. You brothers who hear of brothers being sick or brothers having considerable sickness in the family, call on them and see if they need help and notify your local chairman. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.*' Csbt. 148. Chicago Gt Western Ryn Dlv, 99. Eastern Division — The meeting at Sycamore Saturday evening, March 18th, was addressed by First Vice-president Brown and General Chairman High of Division 61. There should have been a better attendance. Among others present were Bros. Manley, agent Dyersville; Kim be r, second Oneida, and Inman, third Aurora. You know who the delinquents are. Keep after them and see that they are lined up again, and give the few no ns no rest until they line up also. Bro. C. C. Crickette relieved Bro. L. W. Watt at Stockton, who is now cashier of the Waterloo, Iowa, freight house. Bro. J. W. Hose, third Sycamore, is now cashier of the Farmers Grain Company there. We wish these brothers success in their new posi- tions. Bro. John Turley, Woodbine, is still on the sick list. Bros. Ayers and Williams, Chi- cago; Stanley, Chicago Transfer; Tkach, Elmhurst and Borchardt, Farlley, are back at work again. Bro. N. Williams, who went to Mecca, CaL. is improving slowly. Sister Nickerson, agent Kidder, waa re- lieved by her daughter there and mat to Farley on account of the shortage of avail- able men. Bro. Garrells has returned from Vtlpe- raiso, Ind., to Graf Agency, vice Bro. W. & Nickerson, relieving at Woodbine Agency. Cm 27. Western Division — Our regular division meeting which fhMU have been held at Ft. Dodge, March tttfa, was postponed account of the system meet* lng held at Oelweln that day. where 4b ere was a good turn-out. Vice-president Broom. General Chairman Coleman and Oeserel Chairman High of the Santa Fe, wert fi* spokesmen, and their orations were master* pieces. It is very much regretted (hot to many members on this division failed tohfcr them. Local Chairman Harre was iM those who attended the Oelweln mneHiy Our chairman was informed that Bis dh lfnquents along the line were mostly the men who just recently joined, but them b also one or two older heads on that tht Our employers know who are up-tMati members and It Is our duty to keep aft* both delinquents and none alike, and ttm them up. We must live up to the company's bock <f rules, as we accept It as their sehatfa when we enter their employ, and also ltvs vp to our schedule in every particular, the abet as we expect our employee to do. Thai m will reach the goal of success In on organ- isation. » It Is not only the duty of the ofllfi*Ml our organisation, but that of every 0*92 to line up every non and delinquent hi gdt in touch with, show them why they dMI become a member, then do not ie*t Be they are carrying an up-to-date mr& * good way of showing these none gal Ik linquents the rightfulness of the Ord*b to ADHERE strictly to that slogan card , no favors ." Bro. Harre has issued a ofeetskr M)** all members and every member up to it. Vloe-pesident W. T. Brown this division upon having the auditor, Bro. O. A. Poller, as an member. We hope that all our j operators will work with him In itawp ned as to not eause him to rsgrttwjiP- member. „ ■ ‘ Bro. Gruis, Harlan third, goes *9 ““ freight house. ^ Bro. Shreve, third CounoB BhUfr the sick list several days. Wish each brother would am* 1 notes as they are mighty Ml ; of these days. G.~B- Bmm Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher 541 Duluth So. Shore A A. Ry.„ Div. 116. Bro. W. E. Fish, who bid In Bessemer Agency, has returned to the general super- intendent’s office in Marquette as he could not get a place to live there. Bro. Heimling and James Deasy were re- cent Marquette visitors, latter from Seney. Bra Lawrence, agent Munsing Junction, is now Installed in a "side door Pullman," the depot having burned down recently, nearly everything being destroyed except a few records. The iron ore situation looks very promis- ing for a busy summer. The L. S. & I. is fixing up its dock, the ice in . Lake Superior is commencing to move, large fields drifting with the winds outside the harbor. "There was a reason" why Secretary Dan- ielson was late at our last meeting in Houghton. It seems that the "easy" riding was too much for him and he took a nap. When It came time for the conductor to collect tickets he was among the good broth- ers of Division 23 who sent him back in time to finish up the business. Bros. Poppe and Wubbena, let's hear from you. Remember " No card , no favors ” N. H., Cert. 215. Lehigh Valley R. R., Div. 124. The sixty days* grace given all members to pay their dues and M. B. D. from Jan- uary 1st has expired. There are a few who have not paid yet and each local chairman has been sent a list of those on his division. We have never had such a small delinquent list at the end of the two months’ grace as this time, with the laregst membership we have ever had. This is Indeed encouraging. We feel we have not labored in vain, and I urge upon each loyal member to work as never before to get in the very few remain- ing none. Make every man show an up-to- date card or know the reason why he has not got one. There may be a delinquent or a non working right with you. If so, advise your local chairman. If you cannot make him see the light yourself, write me or the general chairman, we may all be able to help, use every persuasion in your power, leaving nothing undone to further the inter- ests of our Order, which are yours as welL Just a little more concerted effort will bring us to the coveted goal of 100 per cent membership, which means a hundred times as much to us as a 76 per cent membership. We now have on the Lehigh Valley an or- ganization second to none in every respect, and intend to hold It with the help of each individual member. There is always a chance for improvement in any organization and we wknt ours to be Just as strong and as closely linked together on this road as tbs steel rails that run from New Tork to Buffalo. It means continual hard work, but we are all used to that and cannot expect to get anywhere unless we do work hard and keep everlastingly at it. Use every legiti- mate effort at your command and we will succeed beyond our fondest hopes. Let us say we will do it and it is half done. My address has been changed from 159 East North street to 207 South West street, Geneva, N. Y. Kindly make note of it. Very few of the Seneca Division members have paid anything into the flower fund for some time and it is getting low on account of deaths and sickness. Please hand your 25 cents for the three months to Bro. Lacey at Sayre. There is nothing compulsory about this, but it is done in order that we may have a fund on hand at all times for occasions of this kind, making it unneces- ' sary to send a subscription paper over the line. Let us all do our bit at once toward keeping this fund up. It is a worthy cause which you will never miss or regret sub- scribing to. M. M. Crane, G. S. & T. Buffalo Division — A little "jazz" accompanied the Rochester evening meeting March 5th, which was much appreciated by the 38 who were pres- ent. only two less than the morning attend- ance. Bro. Leh was not able to attend but will attend the next one if nothing unforeseen happens. Bros. Morey, Blim, Mansell and Zimmerman from the N. Y. C. and Local Chairman Jerries from the Erie attended. The Buffalo meeting on March 17th was attended by about 40, but that is no where near what it should be. General Chairmen Leh and Morey gave us a good idea of the present situation in regard to railroad labor. We expect the few delinquents %to all be in line again by the time this goes to print. Membership is what’s going to count on all the roads. If there is a delinquent or non with or near you see that he gets up-to-date at once. Don’t forget that Extra Ryan is still a "non." Bro. Voak bid in flrst "DJ" ; Bro. Conlon, third "BF," succeeded by Bro. Dugan at "DB" ; Bro. Coleman, back after five weeks’ illness, bid in "Chgo St." ; Bro. Seitz bid in the vacancy in the Buffalo ticket office, and Bro. Sam Gafner was promoted to city ticket agent there. Bro. Heech is back after three months In a palm beach suit. Cert. 263. Bethlehem , Pa., Relay — Bro. Buss has returned to work after a three weeks’ illness ; also Bro. Hultsch, who was sick several days, relieved by Bro. Blake. Baseball seems to be the main topic in "BM" Just now, but Bro. Snyder of the N. J. & L. says "No beer, no baseball.*’ Digitized by Googk

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542 The Railboad Telegrapher. Bro. Staib is going to plant potatoes on his land this season and beat Kirkpatrick’s tomatoes of last year, which weighed a pound and three-quarters. Cert. 41. C., R. I. & P. Ry., Div. 126. General Offices — Topeka — Interpretation No. 8 continues. to be the paramount issue In the Relay Divi- sion. After holding it up 16 or 17 months, it was finally applied in a haphazard sort of fashion. Some of the brothers got a nice raise, some an insignificant one and others nothing, and the back pay is still being held up. The differentials that this interpreta- tion has destroyed will have to be restored. We should all sit tight and pull for an early adjustment. Manager Jones spent a pleasant evening with the “night manager” at Herington re- cently while digging up some old records there to be used in basing Application No. 8. Some of the brothers receiving the big in- creases are delinquent. A poor way of snowing gratitude. Corp, of Fairbury. is still holding out on some fancied grievances, the principal one being the transfer of the office from Her- rington to Topeka. Inasmuch as the super- intendent of telegraph suggested and ap- proved such transfer, I asked Corp why he did not sever his connection with the com- pany, as that would be more consistent than quitting the Order on that account His reply was unsatisfactory, as might be ex- pected. Hafford, Gill and Hamilton drag along, reaping the benefits, grabbing the big increases, but never putting out a thing but their hands. Bro. Schreiber, of Trenton, has gone into business for himself at Trenton. We regret losing such a staunch supporter from our ranks, but has our very best wishes for his success. Bro. Eh r hart, of Kansas City, makes weekly pilgrimages to the old home town to see the folks and chew the rag with the old guard. We hope you few delinquents in the Relay Division will pay up at once and be in a position to “holler” if you feel aggrieved. Watch the extra men on the division, brothers. If none, let me know how they stand. I only work about half the relay offices on the system and must have some co-operation to keep posted. El Reno Relay — Much dissatisfaction has arisen as a result of the application of Sup- plement 8, but we hope to see the many in- equalities ironed out soon. A good many other things along the same line and com- ing under the jurisdiction of the same offi- cial need action badly and we should Insist our rights in a cool, collected way. Bro. Moore is back after quite a siege of the “flu.” Bro. Murray is also back with us from “GO.” Bro. Snodgrass is sporting a new Stude- baker Six. Bro. Phelps is learning the electrician’s trade. They are drawing $12 a day in Oklahoma City and other towns around here. Bro. Teeters, formerly of “GO,” trans- ferred to the Oklahoma Division and “at home” at Hennessey, recently paid us a brief visit Bro. Wise has bid in a Job at “MS.” Bro. McKnlght is getting the “wanderlust” He bids on a job one day, cancels his bid the next and so on ad fin. Gardening is all the rage now. Do your spring planting early. R. D. Stover, Local Chairman. Missouri Division — Having been elected to serve you boys, will do all in my power for the good of the cause, and thank you for your support Have appointed Bro. Bayse, Cameron Junction, assistant local chairman, and Bro. Davis, Udell, division correspondent Any grievances you may have refer to Bro. Bayse or myself and they will have proper handling. Every member keep after the few “non*” continually. Call them on the wire, tele- phone and write them. They need us and we need the support of every one. Don’t pay any attention to rumors In re- gard to the present different issues. Just fit tight and all will be straightened out in due time. A meeting was held at Trenton. Sunday. March 28th, addressed by General Chairman Kay on Interpretation No. 8. Many were unable to attend on account of poor tmin service. Bros. Davis and Underwood, Udell, were recent Centerville visitors, and Local Chair- man Krusor spent Sunday with home folk* at Belknap, latter relieved by Bro. Lis**tt from Allerton, who was off sick several nights recently. Bro. Hart, third EMon Yard, also off sick. Don’t class Conductors Phares or Careca- din with the Sunday phone order copiers They are “true blua” Take Bros. R. J. Underwood, second Udell, and J. E. Crail, Fairfield Tower, off the non list. Other new brothers are F*. F- Winsor, Letts second, and Bra D. Brooks from C. M. & St. P. Bro. Smart, Eldon, passenger station. # being relieved by Bro. Taylor. Bro. G U*e. third Eldon, is now with the Western Union at Des Moines. Back pay will be forthcoming probably next pay day. Send in a few notes for the write-up month. J* R- Kkosos, L G Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 543 Kansas Division — Let us try and clean up the few delin- quents so that no one will be dropped from the list to be classed as a non. Great progress should be made this year In securing better wages and working con- ditions, and we must do our part to bring this about. The small raise granted by Supplement No. 13 was quickly absorbed by the H. C. B. and profiteers, leaving us in as bad a con- dition as before, everything being advanced before we received it. We are looking for- ward now to the board to be appointed at Washington to help us out, as it will have figures enough, showing our needs, to build a bridge to New York City and back again. Remember to vote only for candidates for office whose attitude toward labor is unques- tioned and who will see that our interests are taken care of. If your positions have not raised as they should have been make a grievance of it at once to your superintendent. If not ad- justed by him then refer it to me for ad- justment with all the papers pertaining thereto. Be sure to put in your overtime and see that it is allowed. Bro. Munzer* has been reinstated with his full seniority rights after being off over three months. Bro. Kellar is back at Marlon after sev- eral days* illness. ?J Please furnish me some news, and don’t forget the dues that pays you to June 30th. M. W. Shaw, Bocal Chairman. Louisiana Division — Boca] Chairman Jones of Fordyce spent several days this month in Chicago in a conference with the other local chairmen of the system, threshing out grievances, etc. He will call a meeting shortly and all broth- ers who can possibly do so should be on hand. We welcome Bro. N. A. Iverson, extra, back with us, a full-fledged member and an old veteran who was learning to telegraph in 1863, when Abraham Bincoln freed the negroes. Bro. Dan M. Brett, Ivan, is a papa now. Bro. F. J. Autrey, Beola, was a recent Hot Springs visitor. Bros. D. M. Brett and W. F. Worrell, ex- service men with “Uncle Sam,” went to Fordyce, March 15th, to vote for the ex- soldiers' bonus. The entire division mourns with Bro. C. O. Nelson, Ruston third, in his hour of be- reavement. Bro. F. D. Swift, Bernice, is making a few investments in oil stock. We all wish him success. Cert. 3429. Members of the Indian Territory Division — I am today, March 31st tendering my resignation as local chairman of your divi- sion as I am leaving the service within the next sixty days, making it necessary for you to name my successor. I wish to thank each of you collectively and individually for the past honors you have bestowed upon me, by naming me your local chairman and delegate to the last ses- sion of the Grand Division. I further appreciate the support you have given me, in the discharge of the various duties of those offices, in handling grievances and other matters coming to our attention. I sincerely hope each man will stand firm at his post, and “not rock the boat," be- cause I fully believe that eventually we will receive a square deal all around. My successor will be elected and qualify in a few days, therefore continue to “put your shoulders to the wheel" and keep the good work going on. Fraternally yours, W. O. Riggs, Retiring Bocal Chairman, Hughes, Okla. Des Moines Valley Division — Owing to government restrictions limiting the size of The Telegrapher, Bro. Rawlins advises that he has discontinued the publi- cation of “assignments.” “in memoriams,” “cards of thanks” and “vacations.” How- ever, w’e realize and understand that when we are called upon to "say it with flowers” that the recipient feels and appreciates the spirit that prevails among us. whether It be joy or sorrow for a brother or sister. It is only natural, human and right, that we especially help to lighten the sorrows and share the heartaches of our friends and co- workers. Very sorry to bear of the serious illness of Bro. E. S. Warren, agent Kirkville, Helper Gerald Emanuel of Eddyville reliev- ing. Bro. Farley has resumed at Bonaparte after two weeks’ siege with the “flu.” Bro. Bowe of Carlisle has our sympathy in the loss of his little daughter, Feb. 2nd. The wife of Bro. Brake, operator Winter- set, recently underwent a very serious opera- tion. We hope for her speedy recovery. Bro. M. E. Bash, w.ith the W. U., relieved at Indianola by Bro. F. C. Smith. Bro. Bowen, agent Rosehlll, attended the recent safety first meeting in Des Moines. Bro. Barber, agent Millerton, while visit- ing in Bos Angeles, relieved by Bro. C. B. Bove. Flower Fund. Received from Short Bine $ 9.00 Received from “KD” 15.75 Total $24.75 Paid for flowers $14.00 On hand 10.75 $24.75 Cert. 785. Digitized by VjOOQIC

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544 The Railboad Telegraphee. Iowa Division — If you have not paid your dues please remit at once, as we may hold a meeting in your town and it would be rather em- barrassing to be caught without a card. It is generally considered good business to bor- row money, if necessary, to meet an impor- tant obligation, and none are more so than your O. R. T. dues, so don’t allow shortage of cash to interfere. Without an organiza- tion you would be not only short but plumb broke. Bro. M. E. Wallace, for number of years our local chairman, has resigned and taken charge of a quarter section of land near Anita, Iowa. He held a farewell . reception on the wire Sunday, March 7th, and if he has half as much good luck as was wished him at that time he will do well. Bro. Hub- bell, now in Animal Remedy graft, at Anita, will tune up the live stock for him. Bro. Swan has agreed to break the heifers to stand while being milked, Bro. Shepard is to trim up his fruit trees, and Bro. Phil Harkins and Bro. Acheson will do any car- penter work necessary around the place. That ought to be a good start for any man. Bro. Jay Eastman bid in Colfax second, vice Bro. Redmond, who takes Avoca sec- ond ; Bro. Yunker has bid in Newton sec- ond during Bro. Moores’ absence ; Bro. Bals- baugh bid in Brooklyn second during Bro. Rhoades’ absence ; Bro. J. E. Thompson goes to Ladora second, and Bro. Hewitt to the new position, Oxford third. Bro. Ray Thompson having finished his regency at Harlan, Bro. Morford ascended the throne, and there being no hidden spikes in it has arranged to stay. Ray relieved Bro. Peer at De Soto and Bro. Drew at Dex- ter since leaving Harlan. T. G. Sheldon goes to Kellogg third. Keep your dues paid up all the time and urge others to do so ; back our officers to the very limit and then watch conditions improve. H. N. Dutton, Local Chairman. Colorado Division — The Esch-Cummins Bill has become a law and we are bound and gagged. In future instead of looking at a man’s party name look up his labor record and see if he ever carried a union card. This law can be re- pealed by Congress, the same body that put it in force, and that will have to be done be- fore we can regain our independence. While our employers cannot reduce our salaries until Sept. 1st under the provisions of this law, there is nothing in it to prevent them from discharging us nor is there any prospect of an increase in salaries for at least six or eight months and the cost of living is increasing all the time. It’s a se- rious situation. We know by past exper- ience what these arbitration boards will do for us. Look at the coal miners. The bill provides that the companies shall make 5% per cent profit on their invested capital, which in actual figures means one billion one hundred million dollars. On March 1st there were two million employes. Divide the net profit by this number and you will find that the companies will make $500 off of each employe outside of all oper- ating expenses and every other thinkable way of “sinking” their earnings. The bill does not provide any profit for us and still the papers claim that the bill offered by our friend, Hon. Mr. Sims, contains the same things asked for by the railroad magnates as the Esch-Cummins bill. We are the ultimate consumers to the extent of about 6,000.000, figuring that each employe has a family of at least a wife and child. What difference to us does it make whether the Rock Island or the Burlington hauls our freight from Chicago to Kansas City? But we roust pay our share of a sum run- ning into thousands for high salaried solic- itors, general agents, etc., to secure the business for the roads they represent, while we are doing the work of two men without any extra remuneration. If these men were put at real work it would at least lighten our physical burdens somewhat, and if a few thousands of the money paid to these officials was distributed among us wTorklng men in increased wages, it would lighten our finan- cial burdens. If the companies can make two men do the work that three have been doing it will cut their expenditures about $1,200 per year more. This would mean $600 more service each of these two men would render the company employing them, in addition to the $500 worth of service already being rendered, making a total of $1,100 per year net profit earned for the company by these two employes. The Southern Railroad has already ar- ranged to lay off about 1,350 men, according to the daily papers, “account reducing oper- ating expenses.” The government needed these men to keep traffic moving, but private ownership needs more and larger dividends, as previously explained. The only way we can expect anything now is by electing our friends to Congress and have obnoxious law? repealed. Bro. E. A. Studer has returned to second Jennings after five months’ absence. Cbbt. 15$. C., B. & Q. R. R., Div. 130. Beardstown Division — Bro. Bridges, Winchester, handing up an order to the rear of an extra the night of Feb. 20th was struck on the arm by a board projecting from a car, injuring him several and making him sick. Bro. Thompson, Cambon, Is vtsltiM friends at Concord and Beardstown. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher, '545 Non Miner, Cambon, ha a gone to Denver, Colo., for his health. It is unhealthy for non* on this division. Nona, beware • It Is now Bro. Kimmell at Christopher. This division is ahead of all others on the “QM in percentage of membership. Let’s keep it there always. Don’t drop your card. Bro. Turley goes to Block 107 days; Sis- ter Weeks and Sister Hathaway relieving on Block 104, latter called home 6wing to her mother’s illness. Bro. Luce is back at Vir- den, and Bro. Teague, off on account of sick- ness of the people where he boards, is do- ing relieving in Beardstown Yard. Sister Operators: The management de- sires to dispense with women labor. I wish to assure you of the same protection afforded a brother in the Order. “Hit the ball’’ and give them no opportunity to criticise your work. Bro. Matzler’s mother, also Bro. Wilgus’ wife, very sick. Bro. Kell improving slowly. Bros. Turner, Christopher, Hester, Walton- ▼ille and Cook off a few days, latter with ’’flu.” Sister Frost, Herrin Junction, relieved a few days by Sister Hathaway. I hope the little paper called “Labor," published in Washington, D. C., finds its way to every good O. R. T. brother and sis- ter on this division. It’s sure our friend. Friend Cupid came to our rescue recently and removed two female nons who never could see the advantages of an up-to-date. Bro. Mosier, Beardstown Relay, says: “It’s not a question now of what we are going to get, but of holding on to what we have already got.’’ That’s the way to look at it, brothers. Bro. Middleton, Chapin, is the proud father of a baby boy. Flower Fund. Cash on hand Dec. 31st, 1919 |13.75 Collected up to and including March 15th, 1920 18.00 Total I31.J5 Paid out — La Crosse 310.00 Jacksonville 4.00 Galesburg 1.50 Whitehall 4.00 Shortage of operators caused second and third to double. Bro. C. K. Gookins relieved on first Quincy switch a few days. Bro. Rogers, second Quincy switch, re- lieved a few days by Sister Pringle. Bro. E. L. Hendricks, agent Golden, re- cently moved to Macomb; no empty house available in Golden. Bro. G. V. Jones spent a few hours in Galesburg between trains recently. Bro. Brbwn off sick several days. It is now Bro. Rose. H. L. Thompson, A. L. C., Cert. 858. Galesburg Division, Peoria Branch — Bro. Gaughen, second Knoxville, and fam- ily sick with influenza, relieved by Bro. Henry, second Henderson, later by Bro. Tobin, who also relieved Bro. Betts, second Elmwood, when he relieved Bro. Parsons, third Lewistown, resigned. Bro. Eyman, agent Monica, is being re- lieved by Extra Swearingen, who has sent in his application. It is now Bro. Watkins, second Farming- ton. There are only two more nons left on this branch, and I am promised the applica- tion of one of them. Keep after that miss- ing link at "BM" and make this branch solid. Cert. 2244. East End, Brookfield Division— Bro. Chipman is now cashier Citizens’ Bank of Monroe, relieved by Bro. Tait, third there, on first pending bulletin. Bro. Stewart, second Ely, off after a few days' tussle with the “flu.” relieved Bro. Shay, the agent there, a few days. Bro. Daumn, agent at Palmyra, relieved a few days recently by Bro. Whyles, second Clarence. Bro. Collins, agent Annabel, on sick list a few days. Bro. West, agent Palmyra Junction, was off a few days recently. You old members on the delinquent list get right. It would look bad to publish them in The Telegrapher. Some of you brothers send me a few notes, any time before the 20th. Cert. 2160. Total 319.50 319.50 Cash on hand March 15th 312.25 W. C. McConnell, L. C. Galesburg Division, Quincy Branch— Bro. Kalin, third Bushnell, and Bro Peter- son, first Macomb, relieved a few days, and Bro. Switzer, agent Tennesee a week by Bro. Garrison. Bro. Bailey first Camp Point, off on ac- ootmt of the death of his brother-in-law. St. Joe, Mo., Division — We were very much surprised and sad- dened to learn that Bro. Hickman, agent Payne, had been killed by contact with his switchboard while the wires were crossed with the electric light wires at Web City. He was buried at the latter place. Bros. T. F. Bellus, F. A. Arnold, R. R. Johnson, W. L. Ward and V. F. Jefferies attended his funeral, the twro former acting as pall- bearers. We were also grieved to hear of the death of Bro. Burgess after a short illness with Digitized by Google

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546 The Railroad Telegrapher. "flu” and pneumonia. Flowers were fur- nished for both these brothers* funerals. Bro. G. E. Martin, who relieved on first Payne pending bulletin, is now on Leon first. Brothers, work for the Burlington now and show that we know when we are treated square and will do our best to make money for the road. Bro. J. T. Arnold bid in Cosby agency, succeeded at Tarkis by Bro. R. H. Harvey, third Bigelow. Bro. Rosling, agent Napier, on sick list, relieved by Extra Levedon. Bro. T. F. Bellus, third Hamburg, has re- signed to farm in Minnesota. We wish him success. L. J. Millen, Coin, Iowa. Hannibal Division — Bro. Goodrich, Foley third, relieved a few days by Bro. Blackstum ; Bro. Gray, agent Orchard Farm, by Bro. E. T. Martin and Sister Sherry, Saverton, Mo., on vacation, relieved by Mrs. Gist. Bro. Richard Hays, Hannibal relay, is visiting friends in St. Louis. Bro. Roy Cluck, dispatching on third West Quincy, relieved on Mark agency by Bro. Ringo. Bro. Guy Zinn, extra dispatcher Hannibal, bedfast for ten weeks, is slowly improving. Bro. Blankinship of McIntosh was relieved for few days on account of the illness of his wife. Bro. Gus Hubbard, second West Alton, laid up with the scarlet fever, relieved by Bro. Drcher. It is now Bro. Harwood at Hannibal Yards. Every one remitted promptly, putting our division in good shape for the year. C. R. Whisler, train master of this divi- sion for three years, has been transferred to Casper Division. We have not heard from Bro. B, our correspondent on the North End, for a long time. C. Mays, L. C. La Crosse Division — Bro. Otto Sands relieved several days at Grand Crossing Yard and Trevino. Bro. Cullen, East Winona, and Bro. Tate, Nelson, relieved by Bro. Joe Frommelt sev- eral days. Bro. Farber, East Winona, and Bro. Cole- man, second South Junction, on sick list lat- ter relieved by Bros. S. W. Tucheck and Zepp. Bro. Rupp, returned after two weeks’ ill- ness, is relieving in the dispatcher’s office. Bro. Woodlngton, third Galena Junction, was off a few days to celebrate his wedding. Coneratulations and best wishes from the division. S. S. Foster has returned to second Pepin after a year’s intermittent service. We all received enough back pay to keep up our dues until we are all gray headed, so there should be no backsliding. Thanks to Bro. White. Cert. 217. Ottumwa Division h- Bro. S. A. Powers, agent New Virginia, off indefinitely on account of poor health. Bro. Latiner, of Ackworth, bidding job in. Bro. Goltra bid in Afton agency. Bro. Patrick, Prole, was off several day* sick. Bro. J. L. Hewitt, third Tower 307, off a week with the "flu.” Bro. Lowery’s family at Fairfield all down with it; also Bro. Rob* erts wife and several of the boys along the line. Bro. F. O. Weber, is down in Oklahoma digging oil wells. Bro. Greeley and Bro. Littleton attending funeral, relieved by Bro. Miller, and Bro. G. M. Armstrong. St. Charles, by Bro. Elsa. Bro. C. G. Conrad was recently married Congratulations. W. C. Harrell. A.LC Omaha Division — We missed out on our notes last month, due to my being sick with the “flu,” and the questions asked on account of this show* that the fraternal items are still read by some at least. In order, however, to have a write-up remember that the news must be sent to me. Bro. Boumann, laid up with grippe neveral weeks, was helped out by a son-in-law from the Union Pacific. Bros. Byergo and Geo. Squires are very proud of their baby boys, born slope our last write-up. Bro. , Downey, Plainvlew, is off 30 day* looking after his land In South Dakota- Bro. and Mrs. Howerter attended the funeral of Mrs. Howerter’s mother in Illi- nois recently, Bros. Swanda, Holmes and Stout handling Osmond while "V” was away. Bro. Swanda also relieved Bra Fenda, Ashland, one day. Bro. Whitaker, Gretna second, closed, re- lieved Bro. Holt, Greenwood, while attending funeral of relative in Illinois. Bro. Stout relieved Bro. Griffith a few days, Bro. Salloway, Wlnnebasro, a week, and Bro. Kara Nickerson, a few days while visiting relatives at Stockland. 111. Bro. Dailey, Ashland, spent Sunday with relatives in Iowa recently, and Bro. Glock spent a day In Lincoln. Bulletin on ”UR” Laurel held up, account not fully decided to separate offices again. H. L. Gilbert, Wann. Neb. Sterling Division — New members Reuben Coppan, Morrill; H. O. Forsburg. Maywood, and S. U. Wal- lick, Sidney, Neb. We now have 69 mem- bers on this division, and with 68 scheduled positions we are over 100 per cent strong * Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 54' Let’* keep the good work going. Some of you West Enders get '‘25’* on “Non" Walker at Fort Laramie and line him up. Bro. Chambers, to Guernsey second, re- lieved by Miss Gullett, on third Angora. Bro. Atwell, second Angora, married recently. Congratulations. Sister Henderson is on third Torrington. Bro. Harry Long goes to .Scottsbiuff. Bro. Weekley, Mitchell, is dff sick. We are glad to see Bro. F. V. Dodge back on this division again. We were all sorry to hear of the death of Ex-Chief Dispatcher Marvin at Sterling, Cola The flowers the O. R. T. sent to his funeral were very much appreciated by Mrs. Marvin and daughter Katharine, who, in acknowledging them, wrote : “We have been profoundly touched by the message of love and sympathy conveyed to us in your note and also through the beautiful flowers sent us. Mr. Marvin had only words of love for all the railroad boys. You were just one big family and we feel that our sorrow is shared by you all.” We now have a flower fund on this divi- sion, to which each member is requested to donate 50 cents annually. I have received already thirty-seven 60-cent and two $1.00 donations. The flowers for Mr. Marvin’s funeral cost $15.00, leaving a balance of $6.00 on hand. Any who have not sent in your 60 cents please do so as soon as pos- sible, so we will have a fund on hand, and not make it necessary for some brother to buy the flowers, and then wait for his money until we gather it up for him. Bro. J. F. Wells of the Sterling Relay office, is entitled to the credit for starting this flower fund for us. Brothers, see that the few delinquents re- mit Bro. Rogers at once and square them- selves with him bq taking out an annual card. We have 17 annual cards on this division now. Do your part and make it 26. These delinquents have been cut off the journal mailing list. If there is one with or near you remind him that he Is leaving his beneficiary unprotected until he remits for both his dues and M. B. D. assessment, with the health certificate. F. A. Sense, L. C., Cert. 1690. Lincoln Division— Bro. L. Oleary is back at Dorchester sec- ond from California. Bro. Lee Kenesaw, off a few days with the “flu,“ was off again on account of his wife undergoing an operation at Concordia. Bro. E. A. Custer resigned second Hastings Tower; Bro. Coffman on third “OS” Hastings ; Bro. Chadwick Holstein agency ; Bro. L. V. Wilcox, second Bradshaw; Bro. Ball, third Ravenna; Bro. J. C. Van House to Benedic agency, relieved by Bro. L. L. Wood on first Ravenna ; Bro. E. J. Collier on second Crete, and Non Helzer, second Hampton. Bro. R. A. Fulmer, second Kenesaw, off on trip to California, relieved by Bro. Bruce, third there. Back pay received on Lincoln Division March 17th due under Interpretation No. 8. Any shortages should be taken up with superintendent’s office before making griev- ance through the O. R. T. as you must try to settle your own grievance first. R. B. Thornton resumed as first wire chief Lincoln, March 1st, Bro. W. J. Magee taking second, displacing Bro. Allway, who takes 4 a. m. to 12 noon shift, vice Bro. R. R. Phillips, back to third “KY“ Lincoln. It is now Bro. J. L. Miller, Crete, Neb., and ye scribe has one more berry than he had this time last month by reason of the same. Kearney and Columbus stations reopened March 1st and Operator-Cashier positions bulletined both places. We have a good many jobs bulletined at this time. If one is not satisfied now is the chance to try his luck. Bro. Erwin, cashier Aurora, is acting as agent there, relieved by Bro. Malstrom. Agent Haynes back to his old job at Kear- ney. Among the delinquents on this division are some of our best men. Remember your insurance Is not in force until you are rein- stated and it causes a great deal of extra wfork for Bro. Rogers as well as the St. Louis office. We should see that they pay up at once as they will be cut off the journal mail- ing list this month. Bro. P. H. Miller, local chairman for 11 years, resigned, effective April 1st. He has done a great deal for the Order on this divi- sion, taking hold at a time when we had but 33 members and 18 of them delinquents. We now have 134 up-to-dates and very few delinquents. We surely appreciate Bro. Miller’s services and will miss him, although he will no doubt be a pretty active member all the time. A. A. Canfield. Wymore Division — A high tension electric light wire blew down on our wires at Nebraska City. Bro. Hickman. Payne, Iowa, while trying to pry the wires off the wall with a stove poker was electrocuted. We extend our sympathy to his wife and child. Bro. D. B. Kinniburgh, Washington, Kan., has been appointed agent at Atchison, Kan. Pay up your dues. Let’s have no delin- quents this term. It is now Bro. O. P. Lowry at Pawnee City. Any grievances about carrying mail, etc., take up with chief dispatcher or superin- tendent. If unable to get relief refer it to Bro. Denton for further action. Digitized by Google

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548 The Railroad Telegrapher. If that new man working with you hasn’t got a card get his application and send it in with enough of that back pay he re- ceived to put him up-to-date, and remember, "No card, no favors." Cert. 842. Alliance Division, West End — Sister Hobson relieved Bro., Hobson on second Provo while he was doing extra work a few days. Bro. Toohey, first Hemingford, is back from his honeymoon. Sister Graham return- ing to third Hemingford, vice Sister Hane ^o the East End. • Sister Moore, third Ardmore, relieved 30 days by Bro. Young, relieved on third Rut- land by Bro. Cave, and he later by Sister Schurr. I Bro. Osborn, first Edgemont, relieved by Bro. L. M. Davis a few days on account of sickness. Bro. Jolly, agent Belmont, relieved a few days by Bro. Harper, relieved on second by Bro. Uhl, who also relieved Bro. Young on third Rutland when he took Hemingford second, and later relieved Bro. Triggs, sec- ond Edgemont, and Bro. Cochran, third Crawford, a few days. Bro. Webb, second Orella, relieved by Sis- ter Shaul of Marsland two weeks, relieved by Bro. Bailey. We are sorry to hear of the death of Bro. W. E. Hawley of second Belmont, also of Bro. L. M. Davis’ mother. Cert. 2578. Sheridan Division — More tricks closed but there is still lots of work for the extras. Bro. L. L. Thomas, third Ulm, and Bro. F. B. Thomas, first New Castle, both off several days on account of serious illness or their father, Bro. H. C. Thomas, agent Ulm, who had to be moved to Denver from Sher- idan Hospital in order to consult specialists for a serious case of stomach trouble, but prospects good for recovery. Bro. W. H. Garwood is on Ulm agency during Bro. Thomas' absence, relieved by Bro. R. V. Evans, second there. Bro. W. R. Lewis, second Verona, closed, to first Moorcraft, vice Bro. C. F. Davis, taking Moorcraft agency, vice Bro. W. W. Sanders, off owing to sickness in family, soon to return to Arvada agency. Sister O. M. Chester is back on third Arvada after several weeks’ visit with her parents in Sheridan. Bro. Wilson, relieving Bro. F. B. Thomas on first Newcastle temporarily, relieved on third there by Bro. P. F. McCarthy. Sister Mallory, operator Clifton, relieved by Sister Rathbone on account of appendi- ces operation. Sister Beulah First, third Echeta relieved by Bro. P. V. Stillings several days and later by Sister Roberts of Felix, on sick list. Sister Halley, third Dietz, is being relieved by Sister A. L. Mikesell. L*. A. Hcntm. Et Paso A Sou. h western Ry., Div. 137. Western Division — Bro. T. W. Sick, agent Osborn, off for two weeks account sickness. Bro. R. R. Smith, relief operator, in Cop- per Queen Hospital with "flu,*' relieved by Bro. G. Beal, late of the Chicago and Alton. Sister Trent, who has been nursing “flu" patients, has returned to Columbus. Bro. Frank Hulbert has returned to his old position reopened at El Paso. We are all glad he Is where he can have proper medical attention. He is one of the oldett telegraphers on the Southwestern. Brothers see that the men running for office who fought labor so bitterly in the past have a chance to return to honest farm labor. Cert. 211. Lehigh A Hudson River Ry.. Div. 148. Our write-ups in The Telegrapher, have been neglected. I have appointed Bro Frank E. Snyder, 138 South Union street, Easton, Pa., as our system division cone* spondent. Hereafter send all your items to him by mail or tell him on the wire. With deep regret and sorrow we report the death of Bro. Louis D. Sisco, third Ver- non, who was found dead on a mountain road returning home. His loss is keenly felt by the members of our division, who extend their heartfelt and fraternal sympa- thy to the bereaved wife and relatives. A floral offering was sent as a memento of affectionate regard from the O. R. T members of this division. Jas. S. Lawrence, General Chairman. L. St H. R. R. R. Division Notes — Bro. Louis D. Sisco, aged 25, left hU home at Vernon, N. J., the morning of Feb. 23th to visit friends at Nawayanda Lake, a distance of ten miles. Returning he must have become exhausted and froze to death, as his body was found along the roadside within half a mile of home, guarded by hti dog, which would not allow anyone touch him until Mrs. Sisco came and called the animal away. Bro. Sisco had worked for this road nine years and was loved and ad- mired by all his associates. A handsome wreath with the letters "O. R. T.” was fur- nished by the operators along the road for his funeral. F. E. Snyder, Cert. 44. Western Pacific R. R., Div. 153. Bro. H. M. Marshall, former grand secre- tary and treasurer and agent at Gerlach. has been appointed traveling freight and passenger agent, with headquarters at Sac- ramento relieved by Bro. C. Gibson, and Bro. G. I. Martin, agent SunoL has been pro* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 549 rooted to general agent at Reno, relieved by Bro. E C. Lyon ; Bro. W. G. Mackay, act- ing agent Palermo, to city ticket office Sac- ramento. relieved by Bro. A. J. Hoene ; fero. S. C. Armstrong, agent Sloat, to contracting freight agent. Sacramento, relieved by Bro. R. H. Hargadine, and Bro. N. E. Miller, reg- ular agent Palerma, to traveling freight and passenger agent, Fresno. Bro. EL C. Murray, first Marysville, goes to telegrapher Reno, relieved by Bro. J, R. Welhelm. Bra F. J. Carney, superintendent’s office, on sick leave, relieved by Bro. G. O. Fack- rell, and Bro. E. E. Bell, first Oroville Yard, also on sick leave a few days, was relieved by Bro. G. A. Mosher. Our February meeting was attended prin- cipally by the regular workers. Sorry more of the members cannot s^e the necessity of attending ; an up-to-date card is necessary, but if you have the interest of the Order, or your future, exert yourselves, come out and assist us In going over the top. Our March meeting was held in Sacra- mento on the 28th. Many questions of vital interest to the members were taken up. Cert. 22. Florida East Coast Ry.y Div. 160. No write-up for the past two months on account of the committee negotiating for new schedule from January 9th to February 2Sd. when an agreement was signed effec- tive March 1st, 1920, with private control, practically all rules revised and several in- equalities eliminated by securing additional compensation. Sixth Vice-President Ander- son was called upon twice during negotia- tions. Bros. K. S. Jones and Dooley working fourth and fifth Ft. Pierce ; Bro. Long, from Stuart, at Goulds relieving Bro. Roberts temporarily ; Bros. Cooper, Spier and Mott covering season tricks at Jupiter; Bro. J. D. Ferrell at Palm Beach for the season, Bro. Rogers on ticket-clerk position West Palm Beach, their tricks at West Palm Beach filled by Bro. C. E. Pearson (Nickle-Plate) and Bra C. A. Brown (B. & M.), both down for the winter ; Sister Weeks and Sister Burke working first and third Ojus ; Mr. Wheeler, working second, promises to join. Bro. R. L. Ferrell, clerk-operator Miami, bid In Larkin agency for the season, relieved by Bro. E. H. Hall, second Buena Vista. Bro. Kent on second temporarily ; Bro. Rol- lins bid in first Miami, Bro. Morris second ; Bro. Sale at Cocoanut for the season ; Bro. Harper off sick from Homestead, Bro. Bar- cus working there as clerk-operator ; Bro. Chalker at Long-Key for the season ; Bro. and Sister Washburn on first and second Marathon ; Bro. Beasley at Islamorada for the season ; Bro. Bill Johnson temporarily on second Buena Vista ; Bro. Shelton at Islamorada for the winter. Bro. F. W. Moore, now in El Paso, Texas, advises us he expects to return some time this summer. West Palm Beach again .solid with the following new members : C. S. Bennett, EI. S. Washburn, Mrs. Grace Washburn, D. E. Wynne and Frank Harris, there being only two hard-boiled on the non list. A. F. Bauer, General Chairman. Northwestern Pacific Ry., Div. 165. Northern Division — Please send your notes for this division to Bro. Mitchell, Spy rock, Cal. Bro. Bron- son has begged off, being very busy half the time without an operator. Bro. Lofholm, still in Sequoia Hospital, will probably be obliged to submit to an operation. He will be glad to see any of the brothers who happen to Journay to Eureka. We hope the brothers at Scotia, or some- one near there, will soon be able to land Agent Henry. He is the only non on this division, has been here since 1906, and can well afford to spend a few dollars of the back pay he has received for an up-to-date card. Bro. J. W. McGhee, another old-timer, re- cently bid in South Fork agency. Bro. Ham- ilton, assistant agent Dos Rios, bid In as- sistant’s job at Fembridge, succeeded at Dos Rios by Drary, from the Santa Fe at Richmond. Calif. Application blanks have been mailed him, so there’s no excuse for him to remain a non. Dispatchers frequently tell trainmen to “Qo to so and so and call in.” Ask them to refrain from this practice only In a case of dire necessity. Report to your local chairman any continuance of this practice, so that the matter can be looked into imme- diately. How about a new schedule? You know in a few instances wages on this road have been reduced since the “ big transfer,” but the H. C. L. still continues. Bros. B. L. Bronson, W. W. Duncan and R. E. Mitchell are the annual card holders on this division for 1920. Cert. or. Southern Division — The co-operative store movement (ini- tiated by the O. R. T.) has been started by the different railroad organizations around Sausalito and San Rafael, and after a rous- ing mass meeting held at the former point recently, plans were perfected and an or- ganizer started out to gather in all mem- bers possible. We should all support the co-operative policy as it is an effective weapon to combat the H. C. L. General Chairman Sanborn attended the deliberations of the organized railroad unions in Washington. D. C.. before and Digitized by Google

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550 The Railroad Telegrapher. after the return of the roads to private con- trol. Bro. Shryver, third Ignacio, has gone with the S. P., succeeded by Strauss, a new man. Bro. C. A. Nelson has gone to Fulton, suc- ceeded by Bro. Levens at his old home town, TomaleB. The list of nons on the division can be procured from myself or General Secretary and Treasurer Green. Everyone get it; land the few near you and make the division 100 per cent strong; also send me some notes. Cert. 106. Georgia 6. Florida Ry., Dlv. 167. Bro. E. E. Dowling, Division 15, agent Rosier, bid in Summertown agency, vice J. A. Ogbum, resigned. We now have a new general chairman, Bro. H. H. Thompson, Swansboro. Local Chairmen Bro. J. D. Toumans, South End, Nashville; Bro. O. E. Thomas on Rugusta, South Side. Bro. Rush, agent Hazelhurst, is being re- lieved by Bro. J. A. Walker. Get the names of the few nons from Bro. Rush, secretary at Hazelhurst, and help to line them up. It is impossible for us to attend meetings on North End. H. W. Baird, traveling auditor, and Fred Matthews, commercial agent, are with us again. All of the roads are now working for themselves, and we must get all the business we can for our road. We should have a write-up in the journal every month. Each brother Is earnestly re- quested to send items to the division corre- spondent not later than the 20th so we can get them in the following month’s issue. Remember the old slogan. M. S., Cert. 77. Central Vermont R. Rv Dlv. 171. Bro. Jakobs, agent Braintree, is thinking of building a lodging house as he thinks he would be able to house 75 to 100 people each year during the deer season. General Secretary and Treasurer Mannle is out again after three weeks’ siege with the influenza. Bro. Morgan has been relieving Archie Ryan since Feb. 13, when he closed a car door and smashed his thumb. Bro. Pyer is back on third St. Albans after a week’s illness. Sister Trudeau, on sick list, was relieved by Smith at Oakland. Bro. Gamache relieved Ashley, first Milton, off sick. Hurley, second Northfleld, bid in River- ton Station, and Marshall bid in second Fonda Junction. Bro. Jackson, dispatcher’s office, St. Albans, took a snow shoe trip recently to reduce his weight. Thanks to Bro. Chamberlin, first St. Albans, for this write-up. Five or six oper- ators every month helping would give us very good reading. I am willing to do my best and each one should do something to help the work along. J. F. Flanagan, Cert 161. My write-up for March reached St Louis too late for that issue. The auditing committee, Bros. Perrault, Iberville; Abel, Northfleld, Vt., and Webber, Montville, Conn., audited Bro. Mannie’s ac- counts at Northfleld, Vt., Sunday, Feb. 16th, 1920, and found them to be in first-class shape. The treasury showed a balance on hand of over four hundred dollars which speaks for our organization on this road. We can all assist Bro. Mannle very much by paying our dues promptly. Our new schedule was obtained by our committees with the assistance of Seventh Vice-President Ross. There are many new clauses benefiting every one of us. which we never had before. Our committee is to be congratulated for its good work in our behalf. Let us show our appreciation by getting after the "nons” and giving them no rest until they carry a card. Remember. "No cards, no favors .” We want this divi- sion 100 per cent strong. Get the "nons” nearest your station. Bro. Fenton, our chief dispatcher and as- sistant to the superintendent, seriously ill with the grippe, has recovered enough to go to his home In Hanover. N. H., for a much needed rest. We all hope to have him with us again in a short while. Bro. Stapleton, who bid in third Windsor sometime ago. is still at Mansfield as no re- lief is in sight. Bro. F. R. Wilson, laid up with the “flu." resumed at Norwich, and his relief, Bro. C. W. Wilson, was then taken down with It. nearly a week. Bro. Bugbee Is back at West Willington after a siege with the malady. Bro. Ahearn has our sincere sympathy hi the death of his sister, Mrs. Whitroarsh of Norwich, Conn. We all regret to learn of the deaths of "Jim” McLean and "Bill” McAvoy, the well- known conductors. Bros. Gibbs and Webber had a very en- joyable time on their recent visit to Mon- treal, but returning home, were snowed In at St. Albans, Vt Now, boys, If you want a write-up each month in The Telegrapher you will have to send me some items. F. M. Webber. Cert 15. Box 31. Uncasville, Conn. Oregon Short Line R. RM Dlv. 172. Idaho Division — The Oregon Short Line has been return** to the owners by "Uncle Sam** the Btuam Si Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 551 other roads, and no very Important changes have been made so far. While under gov- ernment control It made a great showing in comparison to some other lines and more than held up its end. We all helped in this. Let us all continue to do our very best under private control. When you learn of any news make a note of it. and about the 10th of each month send me the bunch so I can send them to Thk Telegrapher Don’t allow yourselves to become delin- quent. A delinquent member means work and worry for the division officers and looks bad to the grand division. Some of our members are allowing stu- dents to learn telegraphy in their station* in violation of their obligation. If this is not discontinued the matter will be taken up with the president at St. Louis. Get after the non*. “No card, no favors/1 and make it strong. Bro. Corrough relieved by Mrs. Collins, returning to Orchard, relieved Bro. Fred Falrman, agent at New’ Plymouth. Sister Martin took first Owinza when Bro. Warren went to ”CA” Pocatello. , Sister Thompson, visiting her parents at Melrose, Mont., relieved on Wapi second by return of Mrs. Walters. Mrs. Gilllspie (nee Sister Etta Bell) has returned to third there after an extended honeymoon, relieving Sis- ter Margaret Karas, who went to Novene on the Utah Division. Bro. Walser bid in first American Falls, relieved on second by Student Sullivan, re- cently promoted operator there. Bro. Fred Ramusson, ticket agent Cald- well, visiting several weeks with family at Mt. Pleasant. Utah, relieved by Bro. E. P. Shaw, relieved on second by Bro. McCulley from the "Q.” Bro. Redmon, third Caldwell, who was off thirty days on account of a scalded leg and foot from overturning of a kettle of hdt water, and later down with the "flu,” was relieved by Bro. Kinney, who also relieved Sister Schoonoover, Kuna third, sick with the “flu,” later going to third Medbury. Bro. Gambill, e*tra agent Brogan, re- lieved by Bro. McKItrick from Nampa. Bro. Clark, agent Dietrich, has returned from six months’ sojourn in California. R. W. SCHINZLBR, A. L. C. K. C., Okla. A Gulf Ry., Div. 174. With the return of this line to private control the new name, Kansas, Oklahoma A Gulf Ry. took effect There were no changes made in the operating officials, but several Jobs opened up and some changes made in agencies, having trouble getting men to fill them at 48 cents an hour. Bro. Toung took his old Job back, agency Wagoner, Okla. ; Bro. Canada remains at Keneflck, White, a new man, getting his old agency, Durant. Superintendent Dewey is out again after two weeks at home with a bad leg qaused by an old injury. Bro. G. V. Pearson, agent at Allen several months, relieved C. H. Pain, who went to Miami when the unification took place, and he returned to his old Job, Denison, Tex., agency. Bro. Roy Middleton, Durant Tower sec- ond, went to second Denison. Bro. E. S. Lumpkin, third Henryetta, is off on account of sickness In his family. Bro. Bynum, first Henryetta, is on 60 days’ leave, relieved by Bro. McDermott. G. S. Perkins, new agent at Yongers, has promised us his application soon as he gets a full pay. General Chairman Bro. W. C. Mills bid in Fairland, Okla., agency. Bro. Anderson, Dustin, and Bro. Walker, Calvin, have both recovered from a severe attack of "flu.” Bro. Bond, who has been on his farm at Clarita ninety days, is going back to first Durant Tower, and Bro. McEntire relieving him, will go back on third. Mrs. McEntire, who bid in second, has asked for blanks and will soon be in the fold. Bro. C. C. Reed is back on first "GO'’ after 90 days on extra brakemen board. Bros. Williams and Hill, on second and third "MK,” moved to “GO” and “MK" office closed. Bro. Eshelman, second trick dispatcher, has transportation to Philadelphia and re- turn, where he is going to see his mother, but is waiting for Mrs. E to recover from an attack of stomach trouble so she can ac- company him. Cert. 79. Tennessee Central R. R., Div. 178. Our general chairman will soon straighten out the few little irregularities satisfac- torily to all concerned. Changing from gov- ernment to private control made but few changes. Still better things are in store for us if we will look in a broad-minded way at the things that confront us, render- ing unto the company our best services, de- manding in return a fair compensation and just working conditions, endeavoring to merit our demands. Boys, let’s get behind our Order with all the vim and courage we can muster up, and in a confident expecta- tion “deliver the goods.” Southern Junction third, Algood first and Emory Gap third abolished ; Bro. Logue bid in second Cookeville, succeeded by Bro. Dunn on first Southern Junction ; Bro. Williams to second Southern Junction, vice Miss Mila Shoemake to third Lebanon. Bro. Wiggins re-established on first Al- good ; Bro. Driver to first Watertown, re- lieving Bro. Hopkins 90 days, appointed city Digitized by Google

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552 The Railroad Telegrapher. freight soliciting agent; Bro. Green and Non Fiddler on extra board. Bro. Hamilton has resumed at Cookeville agency after a spell of the “flu.'* Bros. Logan, Silver Point; Hoover, agent Mayland; Willey, agent Brush Creek, and Rummage, agent Mt. Juliet, have all re-, sumed their duties after serious illness with the same malady. Following brothers have resigned: J. H. Young, M. M. Parks, Thomas Kuykendall, M. R. O’ Shaughnessy and E. H. Stone, for- mer to engage in other business. A. J. Turman, agent Waldensia, Tenn.; R. O. Davis, agent Doddsville, Tenn., and Joe W. Wright, agent Hermitage, have dropped out. We must get after these erring brothers and get them back into the fold, also line up J. H. McCormack, clerk-operator dis- patcher’s office, and Fiddler, extra operator. Remember, brethren, “No card, no favors ” to the nons ; stick to your posts conscien- tiously in the discharge of your duties and we will win. J. F. Looue, “Old X,’’ Cert. 9. New Orleans Gt Northern R. R., Div. 179. Since return to corporate control. North Slidell and Columbia agencies have been re- opened, Bro. B. Donald getting the latter, with Sister Donald telegrapher-clerk; Bro. Sibley going to North Slidell agency, Oper- ator Young to second, Bro. Jno Poole to Monticello and Bro. C. E. McMillan to Angie agency. Bro. J. Q. James is now extra dispatcher. After six months’ leave Bro. E. E. Loflin has returned to Foxworth third, vice Bro. Gates, visiting relatives in Arkansas. No meetings called since last fall as everything has been running smooth. Will have a spring “round-up” soon. Names of members who attend are recorded at each meeting, so come as often as possible and stay on the honor roll. Some one start a list with a small sub- scription for a floral or emergency fund. When it is completed each member can re- mit direct to our treasurer. The “change the news’’ movement last summer marked an epoch in the correspond- ence department and we are getting a bet- ter journal each month. I trust all members read the message of Second Vice-President Pierson in the Feb- ruary issue, which was very appropriate, and we should “watch our step” accord- ingly. Please keep me advised as to marriages, births and deaths that occur on the divi- sion for personal mention in the journal. Some of the first snow of the winter fell here on March 8th, which was very unusual for the Gulf district and late season. Cert. 107, January issue, gave ua the right “dope” regarding Western Union com- mission. This is an old “eye-sore” that I trust will be remedied In the near future. If there are ’any “knockers” on our divi- sion nursing a “Grouch” read the “fourteen commandments” by Cert. 673, January, and think it over. Bro. J. T. Lewis and Assistant Graves are installing an up-to-date wireless station at the Tylertown office and expect to have it in operation by April 1st. Bro. Barron advises that all members paid their dues promptly this period and there are no delinquents. This is certainly encouraging, and with the exception of one “ chronic non” we have every reason to be proud of our division. Ckrt. 46. C.f T. H. A S. E. R. R., Div. 180. Illinois Division — Local Chairman Blyth attended the meet- ing in Terre Haute March the 6th. A good many brothers and sisters from this division were present, also from other roads. In checking up the books they find our division in the best of condition. Bro. Oliver, third “XN,” is sick. Operator Bales relieving; also Bro. Vice, second *'CT,” Bros. Reed and Chappmen doubling. The latter was relieved by Bales a few days re- cently on account of his sister's death. New positions bid In: Osmon, third, and Burks, second Stocklapd; Bro. Roney, third “DA”; the writer to third Belt Junction It Is now Bro. Perreymen on “X* at “SK.“ Brothers, we must keep our business to ourselves and not tell it on the phone. P. A. Malone, L. C. Mo. A No. Ark. Ry., Div. No. 182. Bro. Tarkington, promoted 'to dispatcher, is being relieved by Bro. Murphy while laid up with an attack of pneumonia. “GM“ relay abolished, dispatchers now handle this work. Bro. Bailey succeeded S. L. Shirley as agent at Shirley when former was appointed commercial agent at Little Rock. On February 20th, 192(f, Bros. H. Fraxier. N. E. Scarsdale and W. R. Gresham audited the books of the general secretary and treas- urer and report them in fine condition and correct as to balance. E. F. Stevenson, Cert. 61. Louisiana A Arkansas R. R. On March 16th our committee, accom- panied by Sixth Vice-President Anderson, mot the management and after a few days reached an agreement which I feel will meet with the approval of all concerned. It is the desire of the committee that we apply for a charter and get our business ai home. In order to do this we will have to Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 553 make a special assessment on the members will be soon, send all applications to me for a small sum, that will be figured out and I will send them in. We have some later. We will be busy at this until we get new ones whom we hope to hear from soon, things in proper shape, and ask the full If there are any non •members at your sta- support of the members as an approval of tions line them up and send me their appli- the action of the committee, and I hope each cations. We want a full 100 per cent before one will give it the proper consideration. we let up. In case there should be any misunder- Our thanks are due the grand division or* standing of the application of the contract ganizers Bros. Bray and Dunn for their lni- I suggest that you write Bro. W. A. War* tial efforts to organize us, the expense for ren, and he will be glad to tell you anything which, remember, was met entirely by the you may want to know. grand division of the Order. Until we get our charter, which I hope A. Barnett, General Chairman. Digitized by tjOOQie

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Mutual Benefit Department Assessment No. 145 Is due January 1, 1920 Time for payment expires February 29, 1920 AMOUNT OF ASSESSMENTS On | 300.00 (Series A) 32.40 per year On 500.00 (Series B) 3.60 per year On 1,000.00 (Series C) 7.20 per year BENEFITS PAID IN MARCH. Claim No. Name Cause Div. Cert. Series Amount 3086 J. A. Broderick ..Acute Peritonitis 14 23002 A 6 300.06 3102 Ulysses S. Dundon ..Abscess of lung .... 74 59488 A 300.00 3103 Matthew S. Nugent ..Endocarditis .... 29 24120 B 500.00 3104 Christian M. Zielke ..Tuberculosis .... 23 15467 B 500.00 3105 Isaac N. Beatty ..Bright’s disease 130 16117 B 500.00 3106 Harry E. Brandon ..Influenza 19 32424 B 500.00 3107 Thomas M. Shuey ..Influenza .... 19 29102 B 500.00 3108 Henry P. Seibert . . Pneumonia .... 33 39661 B 500.00 3109 John E. Fletcher . . Cerebral hemorrhage 1 62219 C 1,000.00 3110 Edwin B. Kenney ..Cancer 158 39622 C 1,000.00 3111 Joseph R. McAlister. . . . ..Pneumonia 70 53998 C 1,000.00 3112 Sherrie H. Burt ..Peritonitis 157 64077 C 1,000.00 3113 Ronald W. Bevans ..Influenza ....126 44215 C 1.000.00 3114 Bert A. Towle . . Carcinoma of liver 23 44914 c 1.000.00 3115 Joseph M. Hoban ..Influenza .... 65 56266 c 1,000.00 3116 Wylie Hunter ..Diabetes .... 8 32362 c 1,000.00 3117 Alfred D. Bell ..Influenza .... 6 55822 c 1.009.00 3118 Martin E. Crowe ..Crushed by cars 18 40466 c 1.000.00 3119 Shelly W. Moon ..Influenza .... 59 37023 A 300.0” 3120 Willis M. Fleming ..Chronic heart disease ....130 11639 A 300.00 3121 Birt S. Grove ..Broncho pneumonia .... 33 55498 A 300.00 3122 Desire Scvlgny . . Pleuro pneumonia .... 1 29681 B 500.00 3123 Thomas S. Pitt ..Influenza .... 55 26068 B 500.00 3124 George W. Myers ..Influenza .... 17 62695 C 1,000.00 3125 Frederick L. Reynolds.. . .Influenza .... 49 17120 C 1*000.06 3126 Ben W. Wilson . . Cancer .... 88 117 c 1,000.06 3127 Joseph F. Rule ..Tuberculosis .... 33 59575 C 1,000.00 3128 James J. O'Keefe . . Influenza .... 29 27528 A 300.00 3129 John S. O’Connell ..Acute Bright’s disease .... 70 52749 A 300.00 3130 Edwin S. Wolfe ..Angina pectoris ....140 12117 B 506.00 3131 Charles V. Hudson. ..Peritonitis .... 58 54223 A moo 3132 Ellsworth E. Holloway.. . . Influenza .... 33 50953 A moo 3133 Grant Willis ..Pernicious anemia .... 8 42430 A 300.00 3134 John A. Villinger ..Pneumonia .... 17 62906 A 30000 3135 Miss Ray S. Lefferty... ..Cancer .... 32 59838 A 300.00 3136 Lucius L. Canfield ..Pneumonia .... 8 22257 B 500.00 3137 Elmer R. Miner . . Pulmonary tuberculosis .... 1 36228 B 500.00 3138 Mick Mason ..Nephritis .... 17 36897 B 500.00 3139 George Procunier . .rnfluenza .... 7 41014 B 560.00 Digitized by C-ooQie null#

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 555 Claim No. Name Cause Div. Cert. Series Amount Brought forward $24,100.00 3140 Albert F. Gallagher ..Railway accident 29 51306 A 300.00 3141 Wallace W. Weaver.... ..Operation for cancer.... 59979 C 1.0C0.00 3142 Elvin W. Patrick ..Pneumonia 46243 C 1,000.00 3144 Reason S. Frasure ..Myocarditis 60419 A 300.00 3143 Joseph A. Pratte ..Uremia 11 11C64 B 500.00 3146 Edwin H. Chambers.... ..Pneumonia 7 47880 C 1,000.00 3147 Dennis R. Welsh . . Myocarditis 16188 C 1,000.00 3148 Thomas S. Kelly ..Pneumonia 42 47236 c 1,000.00 3149 Chas. A. Stuetting ..Pneumonia 33 32145 c 1,000.00 3150 B. B. Epstein ..Fracture of skull 17 52097 c 1,000.00 3151 Leslie A. Sutton ..Myocarditis 49 9221 A 300.00 3152 Claude Smith ..Pneumonia 67733 A 300.00 3153 Sam’l F. Calhoun ..Pneumonia 14 15550 A 300.00 3154 Leverett B. Seymour... ..Arterio sclerosis 23 8090 A 300.00 3155 Felix G. Buck ..Influenza 17 56161 A 300.00 3156 John Downs ..Asthma 1 3669 B 500.00 3157 Maurice D. McPhee ..Bright’s disease 4642 B 600.00 3158 Henri Patenaude ..Abscess esophagus 47079 C 1,000.00 3159 Robert R. Moss . . Tuberculosis 61 61206 C 1,000.00 3160 William H. Brownlee... ..Pneumonia .. 76 28801 C 1,000.00 3161 Clarence E. Walser . .Influenza 130 26294 C 1,000.00 3162 George H. Girling ..Broncho pneumonia 9878 A 300.00 3163 Thos. J. Russell ..Tuberculosis 166 51333 A 300.00 3164 D. B. Kinard . . Nephritis 36 11130 B 500.00 3165 John D. Wills ..Nephritis 126 28329 B 500.00 3168 Claude E. Burkholder.. ..Influenza 175 57658 C 1,000.00 3167 William O. Minckler.... ..Influenza 29 29075 B 500.00 3168 Walter F. Cannon ..Pneumonia 41 45758 C 1,000.00 3169 Bertram Shewmaker. . . ...Nephritis 62 60458 C 1,000.00 3170 Arthur L* Kromer . . Pneumonia 45 55684 A 300.00 3171 John O. Reaser ..Paresis 8 6966 C 1,000.00 3172 Wimberly K. Home ..Heart failure 56 27053 C 1.000.00 3173 Everett Bauer ..Influenza 88 59158 C 1,000.00 3174 Cecil E. Davidson . . Influenza 61 67S21 C 1,000.00 3175 John H. Cook ..Influenza 62 51558 C 1,000.00 3176 Carl Clayworth ...Influenza 61 57048 C 1,000.00 3177 John H. King . . Influenza 20 65656 C 1,000.00 3178 George T. King ..Acute appendicitis 7 25574 C 1,000.00 3179 G. T. Elliott . . Influenza 7 17019 J 1,000.00 3180 James A. O’Reilly . . Pneumonia 17 37299 B 500.00 3181 Edmond G. Benson ..Pneumonia 3 33700 B 600.00 3182 James F. Washington.. . . Chronic myocarditis 39 34785 B 500.00 3183 Edward F. Howe . . Tuberculosis 5S5 C 1,000.00 3184 Wm. H. Kissner . . Exposure A 300.00 Total $2,567,003.99 FINANCIAL STATEMENT— MORTUARY FUND. Receipts. Received on assessments to February 29, 1920 $2,567,003.99 Received on assessments March 12,558.60 Interest 57,330.61 Total $2,636,893.20 Disbursements. Death claims paid to February 29, 1920 $1,960,427.47 Death claims paid in March 55,900.00 Assessments refunded account rejected applications. 3,515.21 Assessments transferred to dues 414.59 Balance on hand credit Mortuary Fund March 31, 1920 616,635.93 Total $2,636,893.20 C. B. RAWLINS, Secretary and Treasurer, Mutual Benefit Department. Digitized by Google

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Every Member Should Have One ORDER NOW Solid Gold Front Emblem Buttons (Large or Small) $1.00 each Rolled Gold Front Emblem Buttons 50c each O. R. T. Emblem Rings $5.00 each O. R. T. Watch Charms $2.00 each Ladies* O. R. T. Emblem Pins $1.00 each Remit by Post Office or Express Money Order to C. B. RAWLINS Grand Secretary and Treasurer Missouri State Life Bldg. Digitized by ^

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MAY 251920 Published Monthly in St Louis, Mo. by Gftje (Bxbtv of Ikatlroab fEelegrapfjers. SUBSCRIPTION PKiri $1.00 PER YEAR ENTERED AS SECOND-CLASS MATTER UNDER ACT OF AUGUST 24, 1912, ON JANUARY 30, 1913, AT THE POST OFFICE AT ST. LOUIS, MO. ACCEPTANCE FOR MAILING AT SPECIAL RATE OF POSTAGE PROVIDED FOR IN SECTION 1103. ACT OF OCTOBER 3. 1917, AUTHORIZED ON JULY 28, 191S. VOLUME XXXVII NUMBER 5 MAY

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention Thh Railroad Telegrapher. MAIL TODAY ^ Be Your Own Salesman and Save $4 New Oliver Typewriters for $57 Oliver Nine — the world-famous typ* Keep it or return it. Our new plan — besides saving yo y one to convince himself of Olivt > money down. No salesn\ er pay $100 for a typewriter again Let us send you a brand new writer— for five days* free trial. That is our plan in a nutshell $43 — makes it easy for even superiority. No red-tape no influence you. No need to ev Prices Cut to Nearly Half — and Why Maker and user deal direct. You are your own salesman. You pay yourself the $43. Own this master typewriter at the rate ot $J per . month. The Oliver Nine itself must con- k vince vou. It is the greatest, the most dur- ^ able, the most successful typewriter ever m built. No finer can be bought for any i W price. It is a twenty-year development, t There is no need now to ever pay Slut) This $5 and best ■pedal me machine duced »ell $45. Some od Ollrera ar Standard Bank of Ward. P* Oliver 1« You can 10 Cents a Day Easy payments of $5 per month. This in action to nnr rutting the price In two. Could anyone so further? Yet we offer this free trlsl without obligation on your part. T*e Tun S daring — but we believe discerning people wUl respond. Tills is the first time In history that a new n^er- tiled 1100 typewriter of the latest model has been offered at the Srl« oV or »ceond-h.nd m.chlDM- It I. ch«.p.r to own than renL No Money Down Simply send In the coupon properly mi*d ‘n- th J no red tap©- -no collectors— no bother. KW,h® Oliver for $3 per month. Or return It. It is up to you. Mall the coupon today. FREE TRIAL COUPO THE OLIVER TYPEWRITER COMPANl 1 505 Oliver Typewriter Bldg . f Chicago, □■ship me a new Oliver Nine for ■ tiou. If I Keep U. I will pay $5. at tV I lion. If 1 keep It. I wiu pay i « per month. Tiie Utlo to remain In you until fulb My shipping point is _*■ ■;* * * "*L**w*T Tills does not place me under any obligation to choose to return the Oliver. I will ahlp It ta/% ^ expense at the end of five days. □ Do not send a machine until 1 order ST. Mai- book— ’’The High Cost of Typewriter*— Th* the Remedy," your do luxe catalog and further — — , OLIVER Typewriter (pmpany ' SOS Oliver Typewriter Bldg., Chicago

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention The Railroad Telegrapher. 189 ever measures up to the demands of the man who has once worn a Signal. He has learned how good shirts can be. Signal Shirts Made Fabrics •MARK are in a class by themselves. Perfect in fit and workmanship, made of selected fabrics, they are wash-proof and wear like iron. Ask your dealer to show you the Signal shirt. If he has none in stock send us his name and your sire and well see that he gets one for you. WARNING: Every Genuine Signal Shirt has this Trade Mark below the collar band . Without this Trade Mark it isn’t a Signal, HILKER- WIECHERS MFG. CO, x Dept. D1246 Racine, Wis.

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■Court »*•»>■ tnpbi*, Twin SPRINGTIME Digitized by Googk

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Wage Increase Presented to Railroad Labor Board THE Railroad Labor Board which was created by the Esch-Cummins Bill, consisting of Judge R. M. Barton of Tennessee, Hon. G. W. W. Hanger of the District of Columbia, and Hon. Henry Hunt, ex-Mayor of Cincinnati, Ohio, representing the public; Horace Baker, formerly Gen- eral Manager of the Queen & Crescent Route, J. H. Elliott, formerly General Manager of the Texas & Pacific Railroad, and William L. Park, Vice-Presi- dent of the Chicago & Great Western Railroad, representing the railroads, and Albert Phillips, Vice-President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Fire- men & Enginemen, A. 0. Wharton, President of the Railway Department of the American Federation of Labor, J. J. Forrester, President of the Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, representing the employes, all of whom were appointed by President Wilson on April 13th, established temporary offices in . Washington, D. C., and hearings have been held on the wage question before this tribunal by several organizations. On May 1st, President E. J. Manion presented the following petition for wage increase to the Board in behalf of the employes who are represented by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Kailuoai# Teleuraphek. :>r>8 Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen: I was instructed by the last session of the Grand Division of the Order of Rail- road Telegraphers, held in Saint Louis, Missouri, May 10 to 29. 1919, inclusive, to present to the United States Railroad Administration, or any tribunal having jurisdic- diction, a wage proposition which contemplated the standardization of basic rates of pay and in addition thereto a request for increases to be applied after such read- justments and standardization had been established. In compliance with these Instructions, and with the assistance of a special com- mittee delegated by our General Chairmen to handle the matter, I prepared a proposi tion covering all classes of employees, represented by the Order of Railroad Telegraph- ers, namely: Train Dispatchers, Agents, Agent-telegraphers, Agent-telephoner*. Telegraphers, Telephoners (except switchboard operators), Towermen, Levermen, Tower and Train Directors, Block Operators, Staffmen and Printers. This proposition was presented to the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions and argued on December 4, 1919, and by reason of the fact that it was still pending at the termination of federal pontrol of Railroads, it was one of the items considered by the bi-partisan board during its recent deliberations. Preliminary to my presentation of data I desire to state that the general wage conditions now existing in the branch of railroad service, represented by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, is unsatisfactory for reasons other than the inadequacy of the wages paid. This may be attributed in the main to the methods followed by the Railroads and our committees in fixing rates. In past negotiations it was customary for the railroads to award a lump sum of money for apportionment among the employees. The appropriation thus made would then be distributed by representatives of the railroads and representatives of the employees in joint session upon the principal of application, “a little to everybody,” and if anything was left after such application, it was applied to a few positions where the rates of pay were inordinately low as agreed to by the two parties to the distribution. The result of this system of appli- cation of wage increases was the creation of a number of rates of pay without regard to equalization or standarization until today we find one hundred and eighty-two different rates of pay in effect among the classes we represent. The anomolous condition thus created, of employees performing the same claw of service in the same town and in some cases in the same building for which they receve different rates of pay, is a consequence of this unbusinesslike method of dis- tribution of wage increases. For the purpose of correcting the unjust inequalities resulting from past prac- tices, the special committee designated by our convention to make a study of and devise ways and means for the establishment of standard basic rates, made a com- plete analysis of the conditions obtaining on class one railroads under Federal con trol from information secured from our General Committee one one hundred and twenty-eight such railroads as applicable to sixty-four thousand seven hundred and thirty-six employees whom we represent. Each railroad was analyzed separately and by classes in the following manner: Agents, Agent-Telegraphers, Agent-Telephoners, General and Relay Offices, Division and Superintendents’ Offices, Yard and Terminal Offices, Telegraphers, Telephoners, Block Operators, Staffmen, Tower and Train Di- rectors, Towermen-Levermen, and Printers, or, thirteen subdivisions of the classes specified in Supplement No. Thirteen to General Order Number Twenty-seven. As explanatory of our analyzation of these subdivisions, I will review three of our work sheets which were used in the compilation of the data which was furnished us by our General Chairmen and checked against the agreements in effect on the railroads. % Digitized by Google

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' V h k Kail ko a d l1 k l eg r a p k l k . 539 An analysis of the Southern Pacific Railroad, Pacific System, develops the fol- lowing: Agents X14 positions 24 different rates of pay Agent-Telegraphers 486 positions 24 different rates of pay General and Relay Offices 33 positions 6 different rates of pay Division and Superintendents 69 positions 7 different rates of pay Yard and Terminal Offices 125 positions 10 different rates of pay Telegraphers 494 positions 21 different rates of pay Telepboners ».. 2 positions 2 different rates of pay Stallmen 31 positions 2 different rates of pay Towermen 176 positions 13 different rates of pay Printers 10 positions 1 different rate of pay Total ...1,530 positions 46 different rates of pay The Illinois Central Railroad shows the following: Agents 275 positions 30 different rates of pay Agent-Telegraphers 498 positions 72 different rates of pay General and Relay Offices 24 positions 5 different rates of pay Division and Superintendents* Offices 33 positions 12 different rates of pay Yard and Terminal Offices 69 positions 18 different rates of pay Telegraphers 341 positions 48 different rates of pay Telephoners 5 positions 4 different rates of pay Towermen 226 positions 30 different rates of pay Total 1,471 positions 97 different rates of pay The Texas and Pacific Railroad shows the following: Agents 38 positions 22 different rates of pay Agent-Telegraphers 110 positions 25 different rates of pay Agent-Telephoners 50 positions 14 different rates of pay General and Relay Offices 12 positions 3 different rates of pay Division and Superintendents’ Offices 26 positions 10 different rates of pay Yard and Terminal Offices 48 positions 11 different rates of pay Telegraphers 204 positions 22 different rates of pay Tower and Train Directors 6 positions 2 different rates of pay Towermen 22 positions 1 rate of pay Total 516 positions 64 different rates of pay Our analyzation of each of the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads was made in the manner just explained, after which a recapitulation, by classes, was compiled, and I will now explain the method used in the compilation of our data, and the results as to classes. I might say here that copies of the work sheets which I have before me were filed with the Board of Railroad Wages and Working Conditions on December 4, 1919. Sheet No. 1. — This sheet contains the rates of pay in effect for Agents on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads and each railroad is shown hereon together with the number of positions on each railroad under each rate and was used as a basis for computing weighted averages of all agents on the several railroads. It shows one hundred and seventy-three rates of pay in effect for the fifty-four hundred and twenty- one agents shown thereon. Our proposition contemplates reducing the number of rates to twenty-four. Sheet No. 2. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Agent-Telegraphers on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads in the same manner as shown in sheet No. 1. It also shows fifteen thousand six hundred and sixty-six Agent-Telegraphers and one hundred ^and thirty-five different rates of pay in effect, which number we pro pose to reduce to eleven. Sheet No. 3. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Agent-Telephoners Digitized :ized b\ Google

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I 560 The Railroad Telegrapher. on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads In the same manner as shown In sheet No. 1. It also shows twenty-seven hundred and eighteen Agent-Telephoners and one hundred and one different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to eleven. Sheet No. 4. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for General and Relay Offices on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads in the same manner as shown in sheet No. 1. It also shows for Managers, Managers and Wire Chiefs, Wire Chiefs, Telegraphers and Telephones, twenty-two hundred and thirty-nine positions and one hundred and twenty-one different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to nine. Sheet No. 5. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Division and Super intendents’ Offices on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads in the same maimer as shown in sheet number one. It also shows fourteen hundred and sixty-eight post tions and ninety-one different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to seven. * Sheet No. 6. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Yard and Tormina! Offices, on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads in the same manner as shown in Sheet No. 1. It also shows thirty-one hundred and ninety-seven positions and eighty three different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to seven. Sheet No. 7. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for all telegraphers (ex- cept those specified above), on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, in the same manner as shown on Sheet No. 1. It also shows seventeen thousand seven hun- dred and eighty-five positions and llinety-four different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to eight. Sheet No. 8. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for all Telephone!* (except switchboard operators), on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, in the same manner as shown in Sheet No. 1. It also shows twenty-two hundred and twenty- nine positions and fifty-nine different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to eight. Sheet No. 9. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Towermen-Levennen on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, in the same maimer as shown in Sheet No. 1. It also shows ninety-two hundred and thirty-eight positions and ninety-eight different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to eight Sheet No. 10. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Block Operators on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, in the same maimer as shown in Sheet No. 1. It also shows forty-three hundred and ninety positions and fifty-nine different rates of pay in effect, which we propose to reduce to eight. Sheet No. 11. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Staff men oa the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, in the same maimer as shown in Sheet No. 1. It also shows one hundred and forty-nine positions and fifteen different rates of pay in effect, which we propose to reduce to three. Sheet No. 12. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Printers on the one htmdred and twenty -eight railroads, in the same manner as shown in Sheet No. L It also shows forty-nine positions and ten different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to three. Sheet No. 13. — This sheet shows every rate of pay in effect for Tower and Train Directors on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, in the same manner as shown in Sheet No. 1. It also shows one hundred and eighty-seven positions and forty-seyen different rates of pay in effect, which number we propose to reduce to seven. I will now refer to sheet number fourteen, which is a grand recapitulation of the thirteen preceding sheets and shows every rate of pay in effect for all classes on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads. The individual railroads are also shown on this sheet as well as the number of positions under each rate. This compilation shows Digitized by Google

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Thjs Kailkoad Teleohaphek 561 the grand total as follows: Sixty-four thousand seven hundred and thirty-six posi- tions, with one hundred and eighty-two different rates of pay in effect, which we pro- pose to reduce to twenty-four. I now desire to file “Exhibit A,” which is a general summary showing the results of our complete analysis of the rates of pay in effect on the one hundred and twenty- eight railroads included in our survey. The upper half of the Exhibit contains a recapitulation of positions specified in the preamble of Supplement Number Thirteen to General Order Number Twenty-seven. The top line shows One hundred and eighty-two rates in effect and the margin showB thirteen different classes to which they apply. The final results of our analyzation of the fourteen sheets are entered on this exhibit. The totals of each of the fourteen sheets are tabulated hereon. For example, we find Sheet No. 1 contains the several rates in effect for Agents on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads as well as the total number of agents receiving a given rate, as for instance, thirteen hundred and eighty agents receive forty-eight cents per hour and thirty-two agents receive forty-eight and one-quarter cents per hour. The totals obtained from all the other sheets are brought forward in a like manner. The lower half of the Exhibit shows the number of positions and average hourly rates by classes on the individual railroads and the grand totals and averages thereof. The names of the railroads are shown at the top of the compilations. The classes are shown on the margin. The number of employees in each class and the average hourly rate of pay therefor are shown underneath each railroad. Take for example, the Atlantic Coast Line, which is the fifth railroad shown in the list: The number of positions are as follows: Agents, 158. Average hourly rate, fifty-five and fifty-three one-hundredths cents per hour. Agent-Telegraphers, 341. Average hourly rate, fifty-five and thirty-two one-hun- dredths cents. Agent-Telephoner8, 2. Average hourly rate, forty-eight cents. General and Relay Offices, 24. Average hourly rate, sixty-four and thirty-four one-hundredths cents. Division and Superintendents’ Offices, 34. Average hourly rate sixty-four and fifty- three one-hundredths cents. Yard and Terminal Offices, 43. Average hourly rate, fifty-eight and eighty-eight one-hundredths cents. Telegraphers, 281. Average hourly rate, fifty-five and thirty-two one-hundredths cents. No Telephoners, Block Operators, Staffmen, Tower and Train Directors or Printers are employed on the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. Towermen, 121. Average hourly rate, fifty-six and ninety-eight one-hundredths cents. Total number of positions on this railroad, ten hundred and four. Average hourly rate for all employees, fifty-six and twenty-two one-hundredths cents. Under the caption “Grand Total Positions,” on the right-hand margin, will be found the total number of positions on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, properly classified, as well as the average hourly rate for each class as follows: Five thousand four hundred and twenty-one Agents. Average hourly rate, fifty- nine and fifty-three one-hundredths cents. Fifteen thousand six hundred and sixty-six Agent-Telegraphers. Average hourly rate, fifty-four and sixty-eight one-bundredths cents. Digitized by VjOOQle

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Tele Railroad Telegrapher. ;>62 Two thousand seven hundred and eighteen Agent-Telephoners. Average hourly rate, fifty-four and thirty-two one-hundredths cents. Two thousand two hundred and thirty-nine General and Relay Offices. Average hourly rate, sixty-six cents. One thousand four hundred and sixty-eight Division and Superintendents' Offices. Average hourly rate, sixty-three and fifty-three one-hundredths cents. Three thousand one hundred and ninety-seven Yard and Terminal. Average hourly rate, fifty-eight and seventeen one-hundredths cents. Seventeen thousand seven hundred and eighty-five Telegraphers. Average hourly rate, fifty-four and thirty-two one-hundredths cents. Two thousand two hundred and twenty-nine Telephones. Average hourly rate, fifty-three and twenty-seven one-hundredths cents. Four thousand three hundred and ninety Block Operators. Average hourly rate, fifty-four and fifty-three one-liundredths cents. One hundred and forty-nine Staffmen. Average hourly rate, fifty-three and eight one-hundredths cents. One hundred and eighty-seveh Tower and Train Directors. Average hourly rate, seventy-four and fifty-four one-hundredths cents. Nine thousand two hundred and thirty-eight Towermen. Average hourly rate, fifty-two and five one-hundredths cents. Forty-nine Printers. Average hourly rate, forty-nine and seventy-nine onehun- dredths cents. A grand total of sixty-four thousand seven hundred and thirty-six positions, on the one hundred and twenty-eight railroads, with an average hourly rate of fifty-five and seventy-five one-hundredths cents per hour. In connection with “Exhibit A” we now file “Exhibit B," which is a comparative table showing employees covered by Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27 by classes, between certain hourly rates and their averages. This table is designed to picture at once the actual conditions respecting rates as they apply literally to employees within given limitations. For example, you will observe that there are two thousand two hundred and seventy-five agents receiving from forty-eight cents to fifty-four and seventy-five one-hundredth cents per hour with an average rate of fifty-one and thirty-six one-hundredth cents per hour. Nine thou- sand eight hundred and nine Agent-Telegraphers, within the same classification re- ceiving an average hourly rate of fifty-one and thirty-three one-hundredths cents per hour. Eleven thousand and eighty-six Telegraphers within the same classification receiving an average hourly rate of fifty-one and forty-nine one-hundredths cents per hour. Four thousand eight hundred and eighty-one Towermen within the same classi- fication receiving an average hourly rate of fifty and eighty-one one-hundredths cents per hour. A total of thirty-five thousand three hundred and seven employees within the forty-eight cents to fifty-four and seventy-five one-hundredths cents per hour cUssifl* cation or fifty-four and five-tenths per cent of the grand total of sixty-four thousand seven hundred and thirty-six employees shown in the exhibit receive an average hourly rate of fifty-one and thirty-six one-hundredths cents per hour. Column three shows the number of positions by classes paying less than sixty cents per hour as follows: Three thousand one hundred and forty-three Agents, at an average hourly rate of fifty-one and eighty-eight one-hundredths cents. Fifteen thousand three hundred and seventy-three Agent-telegraphers, at an average hourly rate of fifty-two and eighty-nine one-hundredths cents. Two thousand three hundred and eighty -eight Agent-telephoners at an avera?* hourly rate of fifty-two and sevent-one one-hundredths cents. Digitized by L-ooQle

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Thk Kailroad Telegrapher. 563 Three hundred ahd fourteen General and Relay Offices at an average hourly rate of fifty-five and forty-four one-hundredths cents. Three hundred and twenty-four Division and Superintendents’ Offices at an average hourly rate of fifty-seven and ten one-hundredths cents. Two thousand one hundred and twenty-nine Yard and Terminal Offices at an average hourly rate of fifty-five and eight-one one-hundredths cents. Fifteen thousand nine hundred and ninety-six Telegraphers, at an average hourly rate of fifty-three and eighteen one-hundredths cents. Two thousand one hundred and eighty-three Telephoners, at an average hourly rate of fifty-three and three one-hundredths cents. Four thousand one hundred and ninety-six Block Operators, at an average hourly rate Of fifty-four and thirty-two hundredths cents One hundred and forty-four Staff men, at an average hourly rate of fifty-two and seventy-nine one-hundredths cents. Twenty Tower and Train Directors, at an average hourly rate of fifty-six and twenty-nine one-hundredths cents Seven thousand five hundred and sixty-five Towermen, at an average hourly rate of fifty-three and nine one-hundredths cents Forty-six Printers, at an average hourly rate of forty-eight and sixty-five one- hundredths cents * A total of fifty-one thousand eight hundred and twenty-one employes receiving less than SIXTY CENTS PER HOUR, out of a total of sixty-four thousand seven hundred and thirty-six, or eighty per cent of the total number of employes shown In this exhibit receive an average hourly rate of fifty-three and twenty-two one- hundredths cents per hour Column 6 shows the number of positions by classes paying less than SEVENTY- TWO CENTS PER HOUR as follows: Four thousand six hundred and seventy-four Agents, out of a total of five thou- sand' four hundred and twenty-one, or EIGHTY-SIX AND TWO-TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-six and thirteen one-hundredths cents. Fifteen thousand four hundred and sixty-eight Agent-telegraphers out of a total of fifteen thousand six hundred and sixty-six, or NINETY-EIGHT AND SEVEN-TENTHS PE3R CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-four and thirty- seven one-hundredths cents. Two thousand six hundred and seventy-eight Agent-telephoners out of a total of two thousand seven hundred and eighteen, or NINETY-EIGHT AND FIVE- TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-three and ninety-four one-hundredths cents. One thousand nine hundred and sixty-six General and Relay Offices out of a total of. two thousand two hundred and thirty-nine, or EIGHTY-SEVEN AND EIGHT-TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of sixty-four and thirty- three one-hundredths cents. One thousand three hundred and eighty-six Division and Superintendents’ Offices out of a total of one thousand four hundred and sixty-eight, of NINETY- FOUR, AND FOUR-TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of sixty- one and thirty-nine one-hundredths cents. Three thousand one hundred and eighty-one Yard and Terminal Offices out of a total of three thousand one hundred and ninety-seven, or NINETY-NINE AND FrV&TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-eight and four one-hundredths cents. Seventeen thousand seven hundred and seventy-eight Telegraphers out of a total of seventeen thousand seven hundred and eighty -five, or NINETY-NINE AND Digitized by VjOOQle

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564 The Raihkoad Tklkukaphkk. NINETY-NINE ONE-HUNDREDTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-four and nineteen one-hundredths cents. Two thousand two hundred and twenty-two Telephoners out of a total of two thousand two hundred and twenty-nine, or NINETY-NINE AND SEVEN-TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-three and twenty-two one- hundredths cents. Four thousand three hundred and ninety Block Operators out of a total of fonr thousand three hundred and ninety, or ONE HUNDRED PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-four and fifty-three one-hundredths cents. One hundred and forty-nine Staffmen out of a total of one hundred and forty- nine, or ONE HUNDRED PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-three and eight one-hundredths cents. Sixty-five Tower and Train Directors out of a total of one hundred and twenty two, or FIFTY-THREE AND THREE-TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of sixty-three and ninety one-hundredths cents. Nine thousand one hundred and ninety-one Towermen out of a total of nine thousand two hundred and thirty-eight, or NINETY-NINE AND FIVE-TENTHS PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of fifty-four and ninety-five one-hundredths cents. Forty-eight Printers out of a total of forty-nine, or NINETY-EIGHT PER CENT, with an average hourly rate of forty-nine and thirty one-hundredths cents. A total of sixty-three thousand one hundred and ninety-six positions out of a grand total of sixty-four thousand seven hundred and thirty-six positions shown Id this exhibit, or NINETY-SEVEN AND SIX-TENTHS PER CENT, receive less than seventy-two cents per hour with an average hourly rate of fifty-four and eighty- three one-hundredths cents, or four dollars and thirty-eight cents per day. 1 will now submit our 'wage proposition: By reason of the fact that Train Dispatchers and certain Station Agents are paid on a monthly basis, it is necessary we request a flat monthly increase for these classes. A minimum monthly rate of two hundred and twenty-five dollars ($225.00) is first established for Train Dispatchers and to this and all rates in excess thereof and to all monthly paid Agents add sixty dollars per month increase. For hourly paid employes, we propose to reduce the present number of dif- ferentials from one hundred and eighty-two to twehty-four, and establish proper basic rates and to the basic rates thus established apply an increase of seventeen cents per hour. The present average hourly rate for all classes shown in our exhibit "A" is fifty-five and seventy-five one-hundredths cents. In .order to effect our proposed standardization and reduce the one hundred and eighty-two differentials to twenty- four, It will be necessary to apply eight and forty-three one-hundredths cents per hour to the present hourly average rate of fifty-five and seventy-five one-hundredths cents which establishes a new average hourly rate of sixty-four and eighteen on* hundredths cents. The seventeen cents increase applied to this rate would create an average hourly rate of eighty-one and eighteen one-hundredths cents. The table of rates contained In our proposition shows the present rates of pay and rates as established by the reduction in differentials and the rates requested with the seventeen cents applied PROPOSITION. Guaranteed minimum rates of pay for employees represented by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. TRAIN DISPATCHERS. Establish a minimum monthly rate of $225.00 and to this rate and all rates iu excess thereof add sixty dollars per month. AGENTS. To Station Agents now paid on a monthly basis add sixty dollars per month to present rates. To all other Station Agents now paid on an hourly basis, apply the following wage classification. One hundred and seventy-three rates in effect at present. Monthly Rate Hourly Rate Hourly Rate $30.00 to $40.00 inclusive on January 1, 1918 remain at $0.4800. .New Rate $0.6500 40.01 to 50.00 inclusive on January 1, 1918, go to 5000. .Go to. . . i . .6700 50.01 to 57.50 inclusive on January 1, 1918, go to 5200. .Go to 6900 57.51 to 67.30 inclusive on January 1, 1918, go to 5500. .Go to 7200 .4825 to .5200 inclusive, go to .6000 New Rate .7700 .5225 to .5500 inclusive, go to .6300 New Rate .8000 .5525 to .5675 inclusive, go to .6500 New Rate .8200 .5700 to .6000 inclusive, go to .7000 New Rate .8700 .6025 to .6500 inclusive, go to .7500. New Rate .9200 .6525 to .7000 inclusive, go to .8000., New Rate .9700 .7025 to .7500 inclusive, go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 .7525 to .8000 inclusive, go to .9000 New Rate 1.0700 .8025 to .8500 inclusive, go to .9500 New Rate 1.1200 .8525 to .9000 inclusive, go to 1.0000 New Rate 1.1700 .9025 to .9500 Inclusive, go to 1.0500 New Rate 1.2200 .9525 to 1.0000 inclusive, go to 1.1000 New Rate 1.2700 1.0025 to 1.0500 inclusive, go to 1.1500 New Rate 1.3200 1.0525 to 1.1000 inclusive, go to 1.2000 New Rate 1.3700 1.1025 to 1.1500 inclusive, go to 1.2500 New Rate 1.4200 1.1525 to 1.2000 inclusive, go to 1.3000 New Rate 1.4700 1.2025 to 1.2500 inclusive, go to 1.3500 New Rate 1.5200 1.2525 to 1.3000 inclusive, go to 1.4000 New Rate 1.5700 1.3025 to 1.3500 inclusive, go to 1.4500 New Rate 1.6200 1.3525 to 1.4000 inclusive, go to 1.5000 New Rate 1.6700 AGENT-TELEGRAPHERS— AGENT-TELEPHONERS. 135 Rates in Effect at Present for Agent-Telegraphers. 1Q1 Rates in Effect at Present for Agent-Telephoners. .4800 to .5200 inclusive, go to .6000 New Rate .7700 .5225 to .5500 inclusive, go to .6500 New Rate .8000 .5525 to .5675 inclusive, go to .6500 New Rate .8200 .5700 to .6000 Inclusive, go to .7000 New Rate .8700 .6025 to .6500 inclusive, go to .7500 New Rate .9200 .6525 to .7000 inclusive, go to .8000 New Rate .9700 .7025 to .7500 Inclusive, go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 .7525 to .8000 inclusive, go to .9000 New Rate 1.0700 .8025 to .8500 Inclusive, go to .9500 New Rate 1,1200 .8525 to .9000 inclusive, go to 1.0000 New Rate 1.1700 .9025 to .9500 inclusive, go to 1,0500 New Rate 1,2200 GENERAL OFFICES. 121 Rates in Effect at Present at General Offices. .5400 to .6000 inclusive, go to .8000 New Rate .9700 .6025 to .6275 inclusive, go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 .6300 to .6500 inclusive, go to .9000 New Rate 1.0700 Digitized by Google

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566 The Railroad Teijcguapher. i .6525 to .8500 inclusive, go to .9500 New Rate 1.120C .8525 to .9500 inclusive, go to 1.0000 New Rate 1.1700 MANAGERS AND WIRE CHIEFS. .6025 to .6275 inclusive, go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 .6300 to .6500 Inclusive, go to .9000 New Rate 1.0700 .6525 to .8500 inclusive, go to .9500 New Rate 1.1200 .8525 to .9500 inclusive, go to 1,0000 New Rate 1.1700 WIRE CHIEFS. .5400 to .6000 inclusive, go to .7500 New Rate .9200 .6025 to .6275 inclusive, go to .8000 New Rate .9700 .6300 to .6600 inclusive, go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 .6525 to .8500 inclusive, go to .9000 New Rate 1.0700 .8525 to .9500 inclusive, go to .9500 New Rate 1.1200 TELEGRAPHERS AND TELEPHONERS. .4800 to .5200 inclusive, go to .6000 New Rate .7700 .5225 to .5600 inclusive, go to .6500 New Rate .8200. .5525 to .6000 inclusive, go to .7000 New Rate .8700 .6025 to .6275 inclusive, go to .7500. . New Rate .9200 .6300 to .6500 inclusive, go to .8000 New Rate .9700 .6525 to .8500 Inclusive, go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 DIVISION OR SUPERINTENDENTS' OFFICES. 91 Rates in Effect at Present in Division or Superintendents' Offices. .4800 to .5475 inclusive, go to .6000 New Rate .7700 .5500 to .5975 inclusive, go to .6500 New Rate .8200 .6000 to .6475 inclusive, go to .7000 New Rate .870*' .6500 to .6975 Inclusive, go to .7500... New Rate .9200 .7000 to .747& inclusive, go to .8000 New Rate .9700 .7500 to .7975 inclusive, go to .8500 New Rate LO2O0 .8000 to .8475 inclusive, go to .9000 New Rate 14)700 YARD AND TERMINAL. 83 Rates in Effect at Present in Yard and Terminal Offices. .4800 to .5000 inclusive go to .5700 New Rate .7400 .5025 to .5475 inclusive go to .6000 New Rate .7700 5500 to .5976 inclusive go to .6500 New Rate .8200 .6000 to .6475 inclusive go to .7000 New Rate .8700 .6500 to .6975 inclusive go to .7500 New Rate .9200 .7000 to 7475 inclusive go to .8000 New Rate -9700 .7500 to 7975 inclusive go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 TELEGRAPHERS, TELEPHONERS, TOWER MEN, BLOCK OPERATORS. STAFF MEIN, PRINTERS. 94 Rates in Effect at Present for Telegraphers 69 Rates in Eiffect at Present for Telephoners 98 Rates in Effect at Present for Towermen 69 Rates in Effect at Present for Block Operators 15 Rates in Effect at Present for Staffmen 10 Rates, in Elffect at Present for Printers .4800 to .5200 Inclusive go to .5700 New Rate -744M .5225 to .5500 inclusive go to .6000 .. New Rate .7700 .5525 to .5675 inclusive go to .6300 New Rate .5700 to .6000 inclusive go to .6500 New Rate .6025 to .6500 inclusive go to .7000 New Rate £& .6525 to .7000 inclusive go to .7500 New Rate S& Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 567 .7025 to .7500 inclusive go to .8000 New Rate .9700 .7525 to .8000 inclusive go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 TOWER AND TRAIN DIRECTORS. 47 Rates in Effect at Present for Tower and Train Directors. .4800 to .6000 inclusive go to .7000 New Rate .8700 .6025 to .7000 inclusive go to .7500 New Rate .9200 .7025 to .7300 inclusive go to .8000 New Rate .9700 .7325 to .7875 inclusive go to .8500 New Rate 1.0200 .7900 to .8500 inclusive go to .9000 New Rate 1.0700 .8525 to .9000 inclusive go to .9500 New Rate 1.1200 .9025 to .9500 inclusive go to 1.0000 New Rate 1.1700 SUNDAY AND HOLIDAY COMPENSATION TO BE AT TIME AND ONE-HALF TIME. With reference to the seven principles laid down in Section 307 of the Trans-, portation Act, 1920. 1. The scales of wages paid for similar kinds of work in other industries. The kind of work by the classes we represent is not duplicated in any other industry. 2. The relation between wages and the cost of living. This principle will be fully covered in our submission on the subject of a living wage. 3. The hazards of the employment. * The hazards incurred by the Telegraph Operators who are required to handle train oj-ders to conductors and engineers of moving trains is worthy of consideration, but as a general proposition we are not engaged in what is considered a hazardous occupation. 4. The training and skill required. Training and skill are fundamental requirements in any and all classes repre- sented by us and special training is necessary prior to the assignment of an employee to our class of service. In fact, all must serve an apprenticeship before being en- trusted with the duties and responsibilities of a Telegrapher, Telephoner, Station Agept, Towerman, Leverman, Tower or Train Director, Staffman, Printer, Relay Tele- grapher and Train Dispatcher. The length of time required to fit an employee for any one of the classes enumer- ated above varies with the adaptability of the student. It is generally conceded it requires at least one year to acquire a sufficient knowledge of Telegraphy to fit a young man or woman to fill the least responsible position and it requires another year to fit them for advancement to the positions requiring a knowledge of accounting, tariffs, general and special rules and instructions as well as the multitude of duties which are required of a Station Agent. 5. The degree of responsibility. The degree of responsibility attaching to all classes we represent cannot be under- estimated. The Station Agent is charged with the responsibility of acting as the rep- resentative of the railroad in his city or town. The attitude of the public toward the railroad is largely influenced by the acts of the Station Agent. As has been often said he is the “railroad's ambassador” in the town where he officiates. If he performs telegraphic service in connection with his duties as Agent, his re- sponsibilities are still further enhanced. The character of his responsibilities are varied and it might be well said that responsbility attaches itself to every act Le per- forms. The Telegraph Operator including Block Operators are charged with respon- sibility of receiving and transmitting train orders correctly, their delivery to the Conductor and Engineer, and must assure himself they have proper understanding of same. He must see that the proper signals are displayed and keep his personal signal Digitized by Google

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568 The Railroad Telegrapher. equipment flags and lanterns in order at all times, for any emergency which may arise. As a usual thing he performs certain clerical duties In connection with his tele- graphic duties and more or less responsibility attaches to these duties but, whether or nor, they tend to distract him from the wire, thereby demanding concentration on the telegraph at all times lest he overlook a train order and imperil the lives of the trav- eling public and the property of the railroads. The Telephoner as defined in our branch of the service, is an employee perform- ing the duties by telephone which were previously performed by telegraph. His duties and responsibilities are analogous to those of the Telegrapher. The relay and general office Telegrapher performs the highest type of telegraphing on a railroad and is required to exercise more skill and speed in the performance of bis duties than Station or Tower Telegrapher, and naturally the opportunity to make errors is always present In a very marked degree. The Towerman, Leverman, Staffman, Tower and Train Directors, are all charged with the very highest degree of responsibility. They direct and route the trains. They are glued to their jobs every minute they are on duty and many of them handle train orders in connection with their other duties. In congested districts they virtually run the trains and work under a tense condition every minute they are on duty. Prior to the advent of Federal control these Tower- men, Levermen, Tower and Train Directors working in congested districts received vacations and relief days with pay. Some of them received as high as forty days per year relief, because of the necessity of relaxation from the strain under which they worked. But the Director General abolished all relief days on January 1, 1919, tberO by greatly augmenting the responsibility of thesd employees. I submit tha^ these relief days should be restored. Train Dispatchers are charged with the responsibilities peculiar unto themselves. They issue the train orders over the signature of the Superintendent and are held accountable for the proper transmission, interpretation and execution of sgme. Their responsibilities are probably more fully comprehended by the public than the other classes and therefore, a detailed explanation seems unnecessary. Much more could be said of the responsibilities of the classes I represent, but I do not care to burden the record by detailed description of the duties and responsibilities. 6. The character and regularity of the employment. We have no comparisons to offer on this principle. 7. Inequalities of increases in wages or of treatment the result of previous wage orders or adjustments. Without intent to complain of inequalities of increases by previous wage orders I believe it proper to point out that Supplement Number Thirteen to Genera! Order No. Twenty-seven, which established the amount of Increases and rates of pay for the classes shown therein represented by the Order of Railroad Telegraphers provided for an increase of thirteen cents per hour to be applied to rates In effect January 1, 1918. and effective October 1, 1918, and an additional increase of two cents per hour in lieu of vacations. The order abolished our vacations with pay, which we enjoyed for many years and gave us two cents per hour as a balm. This two cents per hour is charged up to our general Increase and is reflected throughout our exhibits "A” and “B.” If this two cents were charged off it would reduce our rates two cents per hour on all items and show an average hourly rate of fifty-three and seventy-five one- hundredth cents rather than fifty-five and seventy-five one-hundredth cents. FULL TIME THEORETICAL EARNINGS. From these figures you will see that on the basis of the average rate of fifty-live and seventy-five one-hundredth cents per hour which the members of our organisa- tion are receiving, the possible average annual earnings computing a year as the Rail Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 56y road Administration has, as three hundred and six days of eight hours each, would be only Thirteen Hundred and Sixty-four Dollars and Sixty-four cents. As a matter of fact, however, no man in reality would be able to work three hundred and six days a year, as this condition would assure complete immunity from sickness by himself and members of his family, and the entire absence of any of the ordinary vicissitudes of life. Assuming that a man does not suffer any lost time whatever, the maximum pos- sible average annual earnings of our members is, therefore, considerably less than fifteen Hundred Dollars per annum. According to our requests, the minimum rate, excluding special cases, is Seventy-Four Cents an hour, which on the same basis of a complete working period, yields the possibilty of maximum annual earnings or Eighteen Hundred and One Dollars and Fifty-two Cents. On a daily basis this would amount to Five Dollars and Ninety-two Cents, or approximately One Hundred and Fifty Dollars per month. THE JUSTIFICATION OF OUR REQUESTS. We do not seek to justify our requests on the basis of increased cost of living. Higher prices have made necessary increases in our rates in order to maintain our pre-war purchasing power. Advances in compensation have been extended to us on the basis of this principle by the Railroad Administration, and further advances are now necessary If our pre-war status alone is to be maintained. We have hoped, however, and fully expect, and most earnestly urge that this Board go beyond this principle. I am in full accord with what Mr. Shea has said on the same subject. To me the principle of increased cost of living alone as a basis for further adjustment of wages will meet with our most determined opposition. It will not meet with our sanction. We do not consider It a fair or just principle to adopt under normal conditions. This principle, as a basis of wage adjustment was adopted as a war-time or emergency policy. It was used In the first place in the adjustment in the rates of pay of shipyard workers on the Pacific Coast and was afterward adopted by other Govern- ment Wage Adjustment Agencies, until the agreement between Labor and Capital was made in the spring of 1918, which became the constitution, so to speak, or, the regulatory principles of the National War Labor Board. This agreement carried the additional principle that under any circumstances, no matter what the increase in cost of living may have been, even the unskilled labor should be guaranteed a basic living wage. Under the pressure of the production of war munitions, as well as under the stress of the war-time operation of the railroads, had not the armistice been signed only nine months after the establishment of the principles of the War Labor Board, by the President, the principle of a living wage as the basis of wage adjustments would undoubtedly have been necessary for, the reason that large num- bers of workers In order to meet the war-time pressure, including the greater proportion of the members of my organization, would have to have been guaranteed a living basis, of compensation. Great Britain found this policy necessary and we would have been forced to follow her example had our participation in the war been extended. Ample evidence as to the soundness of this statement may be found if proof is needed, by the investigation on production, hours, and health of workers, made by the British Ministry of Munitions during the war, by the decision as to wages of ex-President Taft and Honorable Frank P. Walsh, joint chairmen ot our National War Labor Board. The British reports have been re-printed in Bul- letin 221 of the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. Page twenty-one and the decision of Messrs. Taft and Walsh in the report to the Secretary of Labor and to the President by the National War Labor Board, page ninety and ninety-one Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. f>70 THE COST OF LIVING PRINCIPLE WAS WAR EMERGENCY MEASURE. The use of the principle of the Increased cost of living as a basis of wage Adjustments was, therefore, as I have said, a war emergency measure. It was an important part of the industrial truce which was agreed to between representatives of capital and labor, during the period of armed conflict between our country and Germany. As representatives of labor, we agreed to die principle on the assumption that our pre-war standards of living would be maintained during the war so that we could work effectively against the enemies of our country. We determined and agreed to refrain from any attempts to improve our economic status during the war. Capital, or management, on the other hand, pledged itself not to extort abnormal profits during the war, but only to take such gains as were necessary for the accele ration of production. THE RECORD OF LABOR AND CAPITAL UNDER THIS PRINCIPLE. The record of the members of our organization under this agreement during the war has been testified to officially. On pages twenty-two, twenty-three, and forty-six of his report to the president, the Director General of Railroads wrote as follows: “There has not been an authorized strike of railroad employes during Federal control, although there have been a few authorized strikes of organ- izations or longshoremen, dock laborers, etc., whose work is not primarily railroad work and whose policies have been largely influenced by conditions outside of railroad employment. “When it is considered how widespread has been the spirit of unrest, how burdensome the cost of living has been, and how active have been some agitators desiring to make trouble and to develop conditions favorable to disorder, the railroad employes as a whole are entitled to be highly com- mended for the steadiness and loyalty with which they have stuck to their work in the face of all sorts of misrepresentations and appeals to strike “A final word of appreciation is due to the loyal and steady support of the officers and the great bulk of the employers and their organizations. The times have been exceedingly difficult for officers and employes, and these dif- ficulties have been faced and dealt with in admirable spirit and admirable temper” * * * * Despite our record, however, and despite our sacrifice during the war we have since the termination of the conflict been unjustly accused by unin- formed writers when we ask for an adequate wage, of having received excessive rates of increase during the war, and have been officially and unoffi- cially told by those who have not intelligently analyzed the situation that to advance our rates of compensation would be equivalent to starting another movement towards Increased prices. LABOR NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR INCREASED PRICES. We rejoice that the President in his correspondence with us preceding the establishment of this board, has practically absolved us from this charge. Fortunately, we are also able with concrete evidence to refute any charge* labor profiteering during or since the war. At a later date, and at an appropriate stage in these proceedings, our represen- tatives will introduce official evidence, the results of an exhaustive and extensive inquiry by experts, to show that increased prices of commodities have not been caused by advances in wages, or increased labor costs, but on the other hand, that the most important factor in causing increases in living costs during our war 6©*r* Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 571 gency, and since the war, has been the almost incredible and unprecedented prof- iteering by production and distribution corporations and agencies. ARB THE MEMBERS OF OUR ORGANIZATION TO BE PENALIZED FURTHER BECAUSE THEY WERE INADEQUATELY PAID BEFORE THE WAR AND MADE SACRIFICES DURING THE WAR? To return to the direct discussion of the possibility of the cost of living principle being used as a mode of procedure by this board in granting us the financial relief we so sorely need, I wish to say further that such action would be equivalent to penalizing further the classes of employes whom I represent, on two unjust grounds: First — Because we were on an exceptionally low and inadequate scale of wages before the war, and Second — For patriotically acquiescing in a bare subsistence standard of compensation during the war. The employes whom I represent suffered more than many other classes of employes during the war for the reason that the increased cost of living falls hardest on groups receiving low earnings. They have no surplus of income beyond th4 essentials, food, shelter, and clothing. They have no margin of safety above these items, which those of larger earnings were perhaps before the rising costs of living, devoting o amusement, recreation, er the minor comforts of life. As a consequence, when rates of pay fell behind prices, as they always do when prices are rising, the members of our organization had to forgo necessities. In other words, they practically had to curtail their means of subsistence. To them it was not a question of substituting the cheaper cuts of meats for more desirable ones — they were already using the cheaper cuts. It was not a question of wearing their clothes for a longer period, or substituting a cotton for a silk shirt. They already were wearing their clothes to the utmost, and cotton goods constituted their usual attire so far as shirts were concerned. Rising prices and the failure of wages to keep pace with them, meant actual deprivation to the great majority of the members of my organization. It meant inability to purchase clothes of the proper warmth and texture for comfort, and It meant the failure to secure proper nutritive values in foodstuffs as In the case of all railroad employes. We secured, it is true, increases during the war, but we suffered severe losses during the interval between increases when prices were sky-rocketing far .in advance of wages. At the present time, it has been nineteen months since we were given any advance in compensation, and we have not only been losing steadily in the purchasing power of our earnings during this period, but even before It began we were at a disadvantage as compared with the purchasing power of wages before the war. And, finally, when it is recalled, that our pre-war rates of pay were exceedingly low and inadequate, you can realize what the economic plight of the members of my organization is at the present time. It has about passed the point of further endurance. A LIVING WAGE REQUESTED. It is for these reasons that we ask you to put aside the war-time policy of advancing our rates of compensation to correspond to the increased cost of living. Our experience has been deplorable under this principle of wage adjustment during the war. Moreover, it is economically unjust and unsound. Under its appli- cation, the men who work for salaries or wages could not go forward. There would be no opportunity for the improvement of their economic status. This principle provides merely for the perpetuation of pre-existing standards with no possibility of improving the original standard. Our pre-war rates of compensation were insufficient. We have suffered severe and vital losses in living standards during the war. We now wish, the war having passed, to secure an advancement in our pre-war standard of living. Digitized by Google

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The Rajlkoah Telegrapher. i ’U. For this reason we cannot accept the principle of the increased cost of living as a basis for present lack of earning power, or, in other words, as the ground for the adjustment of our pending wage request. OUR PRE-WAR STANDARDS OF EARNINGS. To illustrate our deplorable pre-war economic status, I may cite, an example of our earning power at that time. Taking twenty-five of the largest railroads from among those with whom w? had agreements in 1915, a tabulation of the rates in effect show that the members of our organization working for these companies receive an average monthly com pensation of only $71.98 or eight hundred and sixty three dollars and Beventy-sii cents annually. These were our high and not our low rates at that time. The rail roads referred to are: Illinois Central, Union Pacific, Mobile & Ohio, Southern Pacific, West; Southern Pacific, East; Texas & Pacific, International & Great Northern, Denver & Rio Grande, Western Pacific, Baltimore & Ohio, Southerii, New York Central, East; Missouri Pacific, Wabash, Chicago & Northwestern, Chicago, Burlington & Quincy; Chicago l Alton, Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific; Cleveland, Chicago, Cincinnati & St. Louis; Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul; Kansas City Southern, St Louis & Southwestern. St. Louis & San Francisco, New York, New Haven & Hartford. According to the most authoritative students, annual earnings of nine hundred dollars by the head of an average household were barely sufficient prior to the war for a minimum of physical subsistence. The best pre-war investigation of this kind, as already pointed out by Mr. Shea, was made for the Russell Sage Foundation by Dr. Robert Coit Chapin. The results of his work were published in 1909 under th* title, “The Standard of Living Among Workingmens' Families in New York CUy" His general conclusion (Page 223) from an exhaustive inquiry into the income and expenditures of typical families, was that it requires nine hundred dollars or over to permit the maintenance of a normal standard, at least as far as the physical man is concerned. The results of Dr. Chapin’s investigations, together with the conclusions of other authoritative and official investigations before the war were brought together in a summary form under the heading: “ Minimum Standards of Family InamC by Lauck and Sydenstricker In their book entitled “Conditions of Labor in America* Industries , 1917/* as follows : “THE POINT OF ADEQUATE SUBSISTENCE. “The various recent investigations or budgets or families in different ranges of income appear to indicate quite clearly that the point of adequate subsistence is not reached until an income of about^eight hundred or nine hundred dollars is provided. The percentage of family income spent for food remains practically the same or is greater in families with incomes of less than that amount; in families with incomes of eight hundred dollars or more the percentage of income spent for food is found to be proportionately less as incomes increases, sufficient to allow a surplus left from food, rent, etc., to be spent on incidentals/* This conclusion was shown by the British Board of Trades* inquiry into th-* cost of living in America towns, in 1909, as well as by Chapin's New York lnvertl* gation in 1907, to which reference has already been made. “These figures,” said Chapin, referring to the percentages in relation to incom* groups, “would seem to indicate that not until the family is able to spend well be- yond $1,000 does it satisfy its wants for foods on a smaller proportion of its total income than when it had only six hundred or seven hundred dollars for all purpostf- Chapin’s more intensive study furnished further data, which is extremely inter* esting, regarding the proportion of underfed in the different income groups. ^ Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 573 analysis of the nutrition values of food of these families showed that the proportion of underfed families was as follows: (Chapin p. 127.) Per cent or Family Income. $ 400-$ 599... 600- 799... 800- 899... 900- 1,000... 1,100 and over underfed families. ... 76 per cent ... 32 per cent . . .22 per cent ... 9 per cent ... 0 per cent “This means,” comments Professor Chapin, “that with less than six hundred dollars tovspend for all purposes, an adequate food supply is not provided, and that on from six hundred to eight hundred dollar incomes, one family in three is underfed, while less than one in ten of the families having nine hundred to one thousand dollars to spend fell short of the minimum of food.*’ From these statements from official and authoritative sources, it is apparent that the earnings of employes whom I represent prior to the war were barely sufficient, if they really were sufficient, to maintain a minimum of physical existence. There was no surplus available for recreation, education, the maintenance of health or comfort, or provision for old age. It should also be recalled that most of these studies as to the minimum stand- ards of family life were made during the period 1907-1910. After these conclusions were announced, there was a steady rise in the cost of living which placed the earnings of employes in 1915 even on a comparatively lower basis than is indicated by these comparisons with minimum standards of subsistence. The conclusion is irresistible that the average rates of pay and earnings of employes whom I represent prior to the war were inadequate, on a bare subsistence level, and were not sufficient to support an average family In health and with any degree of comfort. The truth of this statement is at once apparent when Dr. Chapin's statement to recalled to the effect that even as far back as 1907 families with incomes ranging from $800 to $900 were unable to maintain a normal standard of living only so far as the physical needs of food and fuel were concerned. Also that of families studied by him in these income groups, 22 per cent, or more than one out of every five, were underfed. This in general, we regret to say, was the unattractive economic picture of the condition of the members of our organization, prior to the war. It Is underestimated rather than overstated, as a matter of fact, for no allow- ance has been made for the increased cost of living which occurred during the nine years, 1907-1915. We do not desire, and we cannot, revert to our former deplorable condition. It has also been pointed out that prices or the cost of living increased faster during the war period than rates of pay of employes. The real wage of the men whom 1 represent is, therefore, at the present time even more inadequate or subnormal than before the war. An advance in rates equaling the entire increase in the cost of living since Nineteen-Fifteen would only put present real wages on a pre-war basis. Such action, however, would simply be perpetuating pre-war inequalities. A living wage is needed. Rates of pay should be established on a scale which ' would guarantee 4he employes their fundamental right to a standard of health and reasonable comfort. THE LIVING WAGE. As has been so effectively shown by Mr. Shea and others who have appeared in these proceedings, the principle of a living wage is the only equitable point of view which this board can take for its guidance In adjusting our grievances. It is the Digitized by Google

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574 The Railroad Telegrapher. only method which the organization I represent can sanction, and it is the wily basis of adjustment which will be acceptable to us. As has been stated also, the question of a living wage for the transportation industry is no longer a controversial issue. It has been accepted by the best opinion in the leading industrial and commercial nations of the world. It has received the approval of our government during the war in the principles which were proclaimed by the President for the guidance of the War Labor Board, and which has been approved by large employers as well as representatives of labor organizations. It was embodied in the treaty of peace as a guiding principle in the new era of industrial reconstruction. In this spirit it has been recently accepted and recommended by the President's Industrial Conference, and not only accepted, but given a practical application by the President’s Bituminous Coil Mining Commission. We are now expecting this board to apply this same principle to the transpor- tation industries by granting a wage to the members of our organization sufficient tc maintain themselves and their families in health and decency according to American standards an^ with some elements of comfort. Such action on your part would mark the beginning of a new period of peaceful relations between management and employes in the transportation industries. Your acceptance of this principle is not only essential to the general well being of the employes, but it is equally, essential to the rehabilitation and prosperity of th« railroads for it is one of the necessary conditions to the enlightened co-operatloc and participation of the employes in making the industry a success from every stand point. Briefly stated, the board would be justified in making its award for our craft on the principles of a living wage, for the following reasons: 1. Because it is right. 2. Because it has the sanction of organized society. 3. Because of enlightened self interest. Tfie railroads would find that it would pay because it would bring about greater co-operation and greater production from their working forces. 4. Because of public policy for the reason that it would do more than anything else to produce sound citizenship in our self-governing republic. AMOUNT OF EARNINGS NECESSARY FOR A LIVING WAGE. Definitions of a living wage and the process by which it* has been worked oat have already been described to some extent in the course of these proceedings. I shall not consume time by going into these phases of the matter In detail. At a later stage in the proceedings it is the intention of our organization alons with others with whom it is associated in these proceedings, to submit jointly i detailed and comprehensive exhibit of the living wage for the consideration of tbe board. It will consist of authoritative scientific, and official data only and will show how a budget for an average working man’s Yamily has been worked out on sensible and conservative, scientific lines. This budget is based on the quantities of commodities which enter Into tin annual consumption of an average family of a railroad employe and the amount necessary to purchase the items on the budget may be quickly ascertained. Thee* budgets have been prepared by independent and unbiased students or experts, may be accepted without apprehension, by the board for its guidance should it s' desire. * On the basis of the present prices, the yearly earnings required to maintain * standard of living based on decency, health and reasonable comfort^ according w the most authoritative of these budgetary studies of a living wage — those of Pr* fessor Osburn of Columbia University, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistic* and the arbitration board award in the Seattle, Tacoma street railway controversy-" Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 575 range from two thousand and twenty-five dollars to two thousand, two hundred and sixty dollars. They are claimed to, and, you will realize from studying them, that they really do tend to understate rather than overestimate the minimum living standard of an average family based on health, decency and comfort. In the light of this fact, I wish most earnestly to direct your attention to the conservatism and reasonableness of our requests for increased compensation. Full time earnings based on our minimum hourly rate amount, as I have already shown, to one thousand, eight hundred and one dollar annually, or from two to more than four hundred dollars less than the requirements at present of an average family on the basis of a living wage, which would yield only a small margin above a bare subsistence. Our requests, if granted in full by the board, as we hope they will be, would yield but little more than a subsistence wage for the lowest paid man, and just about a living wage for the small number of employes who receive the higher range of earnings.. The average of the budgets to which I have referred calls for daily earnings of at least seven dollars and thirty-eight cents for the least skilled or unskilled workmen as compared with five dollars and ninety-two cents for a normal day of eight hours which we are requesting for our minimum rate. The granting to the employes whom I represent, of a minimum standard of approximately six dollars per day with differentials above it to correspond to the skill and experience of other employes, as established by custom, would be a con- servative method of preceedure, would be fully justified by conditions and would meet the equities of our situation. THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS OF CAPITAL. Capital, or the railroad management has the right to demand that its invest- ment insofar as it has been actually and prudently made and honestly administered should be not only conserved, but should receive a reasonable and proper rate or return. The value of the actual investment and proprietary rights of capital or of the owners or investors In railway properties can be readily ascertained. Furthermore, the actual rate of return which may be guaranteed on these values, as set forth in the; present law, by the public, can be readily determined. There is not practical obstacle in the way, in short, to the public satisfying all the just claims of capital, or the owner or investors in the railway industry. THE RIGHTS OF LABOR. The employes on the other hand have as direct and more vital interest in the prosperity of the transportation industry than even the investors of capital. Should the railway^ become insolvent, the owner of capital might suffer a heavy pecuniary loss. The employes on the other hand would lose their immediate means of livelihood. Furthermore, many of the employes have spent a number of years of a l lifetime in the service of the Industry. They have devoted their working years to the acquisition of training and experience whch they could not sell as advan- tageously in other lines of industrial employment. They may be said, therefore, to have a vested interest in their positions on the railways which is even more valuable and vital to them than the vested interest which capital has, is to the owners of railway securities. The employes are therefore anxious to have the industries rehabilitated, made prosperous. They are desirous of having the public protected because the public interest Is paramount. They insist, however, and too great an emphasis cannot be put upon their contention that the reconstructive policy undertaken for the railroads must be baded upon the rights of labor as accepted by all civilized and leading Industrial nations in the treaty of peace with Germany and the principles which have Digitized by Google

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576 The Railroad Telegrapher. been accepted and proclaimed by our own government as those which should govern the relations between employers and employes. Railway employes, through long years of struggle, have obtained the right to organize and eight hours as the basis of a day’s work with some measures of punitive overtime. The fundamental right which we had been denied so far, however, and which we expect your honorable body to grant to us, is that of a living wage, or the opportunity for members of our organization to earn sufficient amount to support their families on the basis of an American standard of living. The act of Congress under which this board was created contemplated such action by this board. The act itself provided in detail for the financial rehabilitation of the railroads— by establishing this board and laying down certain basic standards for Its guidance. It was proposed 'that this board should rehabilitate railway labor, and thus make for industrial peace and efficiency in the future. President Wilson also recognized and gave us assurance that the principle of a living wage should be considered in adjustment of our rates of compensation after the war. Prior to the passage of the present transportation act, when we were conducting negotiations with the Director General of Railroads and the President, a committee representing all of the railway labor organizatioiis of which I had the honor to be a member, addressed the President and requested in addition to the standards of skill, efficiency, hazard, wages in other industries, the cost of living and other standards alerady established, that the principle of a living wage also he used as a guiding factor in the post-war adjustment of our rates of compensation. He replied to us orally and in writing, stating that if a tribunal was not estab- lished by law he would appoint a special tribunal himself or through agreement, to pass upon our request on the basis of the standards we had outlined and then added, “I shall at once constitute a committee of experts to take the data already available to analyze the same so as to develop in the shortest possible time the racts bearing upon a just and reasonable basis of wages for the various classes of railroad employes with due regard to all factors reasonably bearing upon the problem and specifically to the factors of the average of wages paid for similar or analogous labor for other industries in this country. The cost of living and a fair living wage, so as to get the problems in shape for the earliest possible final disposition. There can be no doubt, therefore, that not only Congress, but the President also expected that by whatever agency our rates of pay were to be adjusted that the question of a living wage should receive full and complete consideration and be accepted as a guiding standard. We, therefore, feel assured that your honorable body will grant us the relief we request on the basis of this principle for in no other way can our conditions be remedied than by the establishment of a living wage for the majority of our membership with differentials above It for special skill, training and service. SOME NOTEWORTHY RECENT PRECEDENTS. Reference has already been made to the attitude of the churches, public officials, and nations In giving their approval to the establishment of wages sufficient to guarantee proper living standards. There are several very significant recent prece- dents also, which because they have been established In our own country within the past few weeks are especially noteworthy and should have your full consideration. In the first place, the President’s bituminous coal commission announced that In making their award they “were guided by the principle that every industry must support its workers in accordance with the American standard of living,” and acting in good faith in applying this principle they awarded to the day laborer in the coal mines a minimum living wage of six dollars a day. It is obvious that if the day laborer at the surface of the mines receives atx Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. f> 77 dollars a day by the application of this principle the employes whom 1 represent are very conservative in requesting from your board a minimum living wage of approximately this amount. The second precedent to which I wish to call your attention is a very recent decision — March 29th, 1920 — of the Kansas Court of Industrial Relations, in its Docket No. 3254-1-2, the State of Kansas vs. the Topeka-Eld ison Company, the Court in rendering its decision said: “The only controversy left to be settled is the controversy as to the wages to be paid. The Court is commended by the people of this state, speaking through the State Legislature, to assure to these workers a fair wage, and to this utility a fair rate of return upon its property used and useful in the service of the public. The question, therefore, which we must now decide is what is a fair wage? The Congress of the United States In the recent railroad legislation declares: Tn determining the justness and rea- sonableness or such wages and salaries or working conditions the board shall so far as applicable, take into consideration among other relevant circumstances : 1. The scale of wages paid for similar kinds of work in other Industries. 2. The relation between wages and the cost of living. 3. The hazards of the employment. 4. The training and skill required. 5. The degree of responsibility. 6. The character and regularity of the employment. 7. Inequalities of increases in wages or of treatment, the result of previous wage order or adjustment.” To the point enumerated by Congress, this Court in view of the almost universal complaint as to inefficiency and lower production in all lines of industry, desires to add another, to-wit: 8. The skill, industry, and fidelity of the individual employe. A living wage may be defined as a wage which enables the worker to supply himself and those absolutely dependent upon him with sufficient food to maintain life and health; with a shelter from the inclemencies of the weather; with sufficient clothing to preserve the body from the cold and to enable persons to mingle among their fellows in such ways as may be necessary in the preservation of life. But it is not a living wage only which this Court is commended by the people of this state to assure workers engaged In these essential industries. The statute uses the word "fair” and commends us to assure to these workers a "fair” wage. What i9 a fair wage? Upon this subject, of course, there may be a great variety of opinions expressed. It seems safe to say, however, that the circumstances above enumerated should be considered in arriving at a conclusion as to what constitutes a fair wage. The skilled worker in fairness should have a higher wage than the unskilled worker. The worker who has spent years of time and effort in preparing himself for a peculiarly technical line of work is entitled to greater consideration from tho public than the more unskilled worker. The hazards of the employment should also be noted and the worker engaged in such employment as that under consideration should receive a higher wage than his fellow who may be engaged in a safe occupation. The degree of responsibility placed upon the worker Is a matter of Importance. The continuity and regularity of the employment should be considered for it is apparent that an employment which Digitized by Google

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1 578 The Railroad Telegrapher. Is seasonal and in its nature must have a higher wage than one in which regular, steady work is offered because, after all, it is the annual earnings that are to govern rather than the daily wage, in many instances. By no means the least important consideration should be the industry and fidelity of the individual for the worker who is faithful to his trust and is industrious, working to the best of his ability in the interest of his employer, is entitled as a matter of right, to a greater reward than the worker who thinks only of his wage and not the Interest of his employer and of the public who are directly affected by his labors. Perhaps more important than any other circumstance, however, is the relation of the wage to the cost of living. In all these respects the complainants herein represent a class of workers who measure up to the best standard and are called “first class workers'9 as well as “skilled workers." Such persons in all fairness, are entitled to a wage which will enable them to procure for themselves and their families all the necessaries and a reasonable share of the comforts of life. They are entitled to a wage which will enable them by industry and economy not only to supply themselves with opportunity for intellectual advancement and reasonable recreation, but also to enable the parents working together to furnish to the children ample opportunities for intellectual and moral advancement, for education, and for an equal opportunity in the race of life. A fair wage will also allow the frugal man to provide reasonably for sickness and old age." This decision settles our contention exactly and what we think should be the decision of this board on our requests as well as that of all other railway employes. DELAY WOULD BE INDEFENSIBLE— A CATASTROPHE. In conclusion, I wish to say with all the earnestness and sincerity I possess that an unreasonable delay in rendering a decision on this point would be indefensible. The railroads have asked for time to send out questionnaires to ascertain what the cost of our requests would be. I submit that the cost of establishing a living wage with proper differentials above it, has no bearing upon the matter. The public has expressed itself unequivocally to the effect that industry, including transportation. should pay a living wage. The only question before this board, therefore, is : "What is a living wage for unskilled railway employes and what differentials should be established above it for skilled, training, and hazard." When the board has decided this question, its work Is complete. It has no responsibility for what its award will cost the railroadi or whether the railroads are financially able to make the payments. This has been fully decided by previous Court decisions, awards of arbitration boards in the past and more recently by Joint Chairmen Taft of the War Labor Board in his decisions in the street railway cases, all of which will be fully quoted in our briefs. As soon as the board has fully satisfied itself as to the equities of our request it should render its decision, and no time or discussion should be extended to the railroad companies to prepare and submit irrelevant statements of costs. Let the railroad companies direct themselves to the question as to whether their employes are receiving a living wage, and to showing, if they can, why railroad workers should not receive a living wage. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 579 A Questionnaire QUESTIONS SUBMITTED BY THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON POLICIES AND PLATFORM, REPUBLICAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE, AND REPLIES BIT " PLATFORM COMMITTEE, NATIONAL NON-PARTISAN POLITICAL CAM- PAIGN. Washington, D. C., March 29, 1920. Mb. Ogden L. Mills, Chairman, Executive Committee, Republican National Committee, 19 West 44th Street, New York, N. Y. Dear Sir: Recently there was received at the headquarters of the American Federation of Labor copies of a questionnaire “on industrial relations and the prob- lems of capital and labor,” “in the hope that the answers will define a proper govern- mental policy and will suggest remedies which the government and those most directly interested may profitably consider,” the whole being predicated upon the thought of their possible incorporation in the platform of the National Republican Convention to be held June 20, 1920. Your questionnaire was also sent to represen- tative labor men throughout the country and the undersigned have been communi- cated with regarding the same. Believing that you should have as comprehensive answers as possible we respect- fully submit your questions and our answers as follows: 1. How far is “good-will” inside the plant a valuable economic factor in produc- tion and how can it best be secured? Good-will inside the plant not only is a valuable economic factor in production, but it is an indispensable factor If production i$ to be maintained at a proper rate. Good-will is not something to which the employer has an inherent right. It must be earned by the establishment of just conditions in the plant and by agreements between employers and the duly authorized representatives of the workers In the Industry. 2. Can the permanent interest and “good-will” of those of us who are wage- earners be developed by, and how relatively important are, any or all of the follow- ing methods? (a) Technical training to increase productive efficiency, wages, chances of pro- motion, etc., without making the work less attractive. (b) Systematic information concerning, and better understanding of the prob- lems and point of view of business management. (c) Training managers, foremen and superintendents in better understandings of problems and point of view of employes. (d) Joint conferences of representatives of the management and of the workers to carry out such mutual understandings. (e) Collective co-operation through — (1) Trade Unions. (2) Shop Committees. (3) Combination of 1 and 2. (4) Comprehensive organizations of both employers and employed. (f) Welfare Work — Medical care, sick benefits, unemployment benefits, invalidity, retirement, old age, and death benefits provided and administered by — (1) Employers’ organization. (2) Employes or trade union organizations. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. r>80 (3) Joint organizations of those associated as employers and employe* (g) Profit sharing, bonus distribution, gain sharing, parity of wages and profits etc. Answering this question, with its various subdivisions, a better result can be achieved by treating the question as a whole. First of all it must be said that per- manent interest and good-will of the wage-earners in Industry can be developed to the fullest degree only when the wage-earners are free to follow their own Judgment in the matter of organization and then only when the employers confer freely and on a basis of equality with the authorized respresentatives of the workers so organ- ized in the industry. There can be no question as to the manner in which American wage-earners wish to organize when left free to act in accordance with their own judgment The American trade union movement, with more than five million mem- bers, is sufficient answer in respect to that. In modern industry shop committees and other similar devices as substitutes for trade union organization do not meet the needs of working people. The movement toward the formation of shop committee* is a movement which has its inspiration and inception among employers who aim to prevent or circumvent practical organization of the workers and is in no sense the result of the study and judgment of the workers themselves. Technical training is always desirable. No movement in America has dones more to secure proper tech- nical training than the American trade union movement Such training, however, when improperly administered or when so administered as to carry with it a spirit of antagonism toward trade union effort, defeats its own purpose and must be unre- servedly opposed. Workers always manifest a deeper interest in processes over which they have complete mastery. * The training of managers, foremen and superintendents in a better understand- ing of the problems and viewpoints of employes is, of course, important What is more important, however, is that the employes should at all times be free to express their viewpoints and to exercise a determining voice in the solution of shop proh lems and the determination of all questions affecting their relation to their employ- ments. Joint conferences of representatives of employers and workers in the indus- try are indispensable. In some American industries the employers still seek to maintain the ancient concept that the employe is not to be consulted upon any question at any time. Those who are familiar with industry understand fully that a day is near at hand when this concept will have disappeared entirely. Two things are to be gained by its complete banishment. First, it is unjust to the workers and until it disappears the workers can never manifest a proper interest in their employment and can never feel a sense of justice. Second, production can never be maintained at its highest and best Compre- hensive organization of employes along lines which they themselves deem most effective is equally desirable and must be had. Welfare work, when administered by employers, the tendency or purpoee of which is to buy the submission of the workers, is utterly out of keeping with the American spirit and has never proved worth the effort to employers who sought to utilize the idea. The points covered under the description of welfare work in tie questionnaire may safely be left to the trade unions. Establishment of proper conditions in the place of employment, the payment of a proper wage and the having of a proper regard for the well-being of the employes, while at work, will do away with the necessity of general consideration of most of these points. Proper organization of industry and the proper efficiency in manage ment will go still further to eliminate any such need. At any rate the initiative ifi all such matters should rest with the organized employes. Profit-sharing, distribution of bonuses and similar schemes are usually used as a means of holding employes in subjection and preventing trade union organiatiw* Digitized by VjOO^lC

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The Kailboad Telegrapher. 581 If employers can afford to pay bonuses then let them do so in tbe form of a higher wage and better conditions rather than in the form of gratuities. Such schemes are, at best, makeshifts and can by no means be regarded as a panacea for industrial ills. Employers are free to pay to employes as high wages as the services performed warrant What the trade unions insist upon is that they shall pay not less than a minimum wage which is sufficient to maintain the workers in a proper standard of living. 3. Should trade unions and organizations of employers be incorporated with right to sue and be sued? Trade unions should not be incorporated. Trade unions are voluntary asso- ciations of working people organized not for profit but for the mutual protection and advancement of the workers. The only object in the minds of those who wish to enforce trade union incorporation is the destruction of the trade unions. They seek to bring about a condition under which trade union treasuries can be mulcted in the hope that such confiscation will destroy the organizations. This question has been fully dealt with in the American Federationist, and the following paragraphs set forth fully and concisely the position to which American labor is committed and which it feels to be the only just position and the only position consistent with American democracy: “The great majority of the unions are simply voluntary associations, organized for lawful and proper purposes. They have no special privileges of any kind, and claim no rights which do not, under the laws of the country, belong to all citizens/’ ****** ”... a trade union is neither a partnership, nor a corporation. “One unionist is no more responsible, legally, for the action of another than one church member is responsible for the actions of another. The attempt to impose liabilities and burdens on unions without regard to settled principles of jurisprudence is an audacious plutocratic coup, which an independent and courageous judiciary would have checked at the first hint or suggestion. “Our opponents charge that the labor organizations want power without respon- sibility, special immunities, and privileges in order to escape the legal consequences of their acts. “This is false and nonsensical. “The unions object to special judge-made laws directed against them. The unions do not seek to be a law unto themselves. 'Hold them responsible under the general laws, punish them for torts and crimes when the are really guilty, but do not stretch the law to establish a 'respon- sibility’ which has never been imposed on voluntary associations.” ****** “Labor has declined to incorporate, thus avoiding its enemies’ trap. But thanks to unscrupulous lawyers and subservient, bigoted, or ignorant judges, plutocracy may be able to accomplish the same result — the seizure of union property, the crippling of labor by ruinous litigation and all sorts of legal entanglements — without incorpora- tion.” Trade unions are not formed for the accumulation of property, nor for the mak- ing of profits. They are formed of Individuals who must of necessity come together for mutual protection and advancement. Their work constitutes a great and noble contribution to thd advancement of all humanity. Labor power is not a product It Is flesh and blood, brain and brawn. It is a part of the human being. Labor power is the inherent power of human beings to produce commodities for the sustenance of life. To suggest that this power and these qualities of the human race should be Incorporated by law is to suggest a desperation on the part of employers which must be curbed for the very safety of society. 4. In the event of Incorporation should the power of injunction be limited? Digitized by VjOO^IC

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582 The Railroad Telegrapher. In this question the workers are asked to barter one evil for another. The workers are asked whether they prefer being struck on the left cheek to being struck on the right cheek. The trade union movement does not indulge in that kind of trading. It oppose all Injustice. The character and integrity of the trade union movement should be better known than to permit of such an astounding suggestion. The question of the injunction must be treated as a separate question. The trade union attitude toward the injunction is best illustrated in the declaration adopted by representatives of American labor meeting in Washington, D. C., Decern* her 13, 1919: “The paramount issues that concern all the people of the United States, and In particular the wage-earners, are the perversion and the abuse of the writ of injunc- tion and the necessity for full and adequate protection of the voluntary associations of wage-earners organized not for profit. “Government by injunction has grown out of the perversion of the injunction process. By the misuse of that process workers have been forbidden to do those things which they have a natural and constitutional right to do. “The injunction as now used is a revolutionary measure which substitutes government by judicial discretion or bias for government by law. It substitutes a trial by one man, a judge, In his discretion, for a trial by jury. This abuse of the injunctive process undermines and destroys the very foundations of our free insti- tutions. It is subversive of the spirit of a free people working out their destiny in an orderly and rational manner. “Because we have reverence for law, because we believe that every citizen must be a guardian of the heritage given us by our fathers who fought for and established freedom and democracy, by every lawful means, we must resist the establishment of a practice that would destroy the very spirit of freedom and democracy. Out protest against the abuse of the writ of injunction and its unwarranted application to labor in the exercise of labor’s normal activities to realize laudable aspirations is a duty we owe to ourselves and to posterity. “Formerly injunctions issued in labor disputes were of a prohibitive character. Within the recent past this abuse of the injunction writ has been enlarged to include mandatory orders whereby men have been compelled to do specific things which they have a lawful right to refrain from doing. “We declare these abuses in the exercise of the injunction writ are clearly viola tive of the constitution and that this issue must be determined definitely in accord- ance with the guarantees of the Constitution of the United States/' 5. Should such organizations come within the provision of, or be specifically exempt from anti-trust laws Trade union organizations as well as co-operative organizations and organizations of farmers organized not for profit but for the mutual benefit and protection of their members should be specifically exempt from the provisions of anti-trust laws. Exist- ing law declares that the labor of a human being is not a commodity or article of commerce. The Clayton law lays down the guiding principle in this respect and this principle can not, with safety, be abandoned or destroyed. It Is the principle that should be followed in all States. 6. In joint conferences should the general principle be recognized that employes have the right to choose their own representatives from within or without the plant involved? • The principle should always be accepted that employes have the right to choose their own representatives from within or without the plant Corporations, combina- tions of investors, dominate the field of American industry. Of necessity they operate through representatives. In fact, corporations are themselves representative In selecting those who are to speak for them or negotiate for them corporations choose whom they wish. The selection is not even made by the stockholders; it is mtde by Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 583 the directors or by an officer. There is no limitation upon the field from which selec- tion may be made. Labor demands for itself no more than the same rights exercised by the employers. The moment it is sought to exercise any outside control over the selection of labor's representatives, at that moment a measure of democracy dis- appears and autocratic control begins to reclaim its lost privileges. The employer has no more right to dictate to trade unionists whom they shall select as their repre- sentatives than the employes have to dictate to the employers. In fact, representa- tives cannot be representative unless they are chosen freely by those who are to be represented. The right to be heard by counsel is a constitutional guarantee. That principle must not be denied, but firmly established in the industrial relations between employers and employes. 7. Do you approve the general principles of the . Kansas Court of Industrial Rela- tions law and if so should they be adopted by other States and by the Federal Govern- ment as far as applicable The general principles in what is known as the Kansas Court of Industrial Rela- tions law are principles that are so anti-democratic as to be reprehensible in the extreme and repugnant to every American concept of justice, freedom and democracy. This is not the place to enter into an extended argument in relation to the Kansas law. It may be said, however, that the principles around which the law is built are the principles of compulsion and coercion constituting a negation of freedom and voluntary effort. Safety, success and justice in American industry can be achieved only through joints constructive, voluntary effort and through the free negotiation between employers and workers in the industry. The principle which it is sought to set up in legislation similar to that enacted in Kansas is in distinct violation of Section 1 of Article XIII of the Constitution of the United States, which reads as follows: "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime, whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” 8. Should lockouts and strikes be restricted by law and if so, how? (a) In government employment. (b) In public utilities. (c) In private employments. In this question there is a continuance of the discussion of compulsion and coer- cion. It must be understood in American industry, in practice as it has been estab- lished in law, that “The labor of a human being is not a commodity or article of commerce.” Acceptance of that principle makes impossible legislation limiting the right to cease work — strike. The difference between a strike and a lockout is this: The strike is a resort to the final argument by workers seeking to establish better conditions and higher concepts in Industry. A lockout is a resort to the final argu- ment in denial of those aspirations. The American labor movement believes that those in the employ of the govern- ment should secure redress for wrongs through the political machinery of the nation. It is, however, equally firm in the belief that the right of such employes to cease work must be maintained. The right should be maintained, but there should never be occasion to use it. 9. What, if any, is the proper function of the secondary strike or boycott? Definition of the proper function of what is termed in the questionnaire "secondary strike” (which, by the way, is an employer’s definition) and what is the proper function of the boycott cannot well be set forth within the limitation of a proper reply to this questionnaire. It is neither possible nor desirable to set forth a dictionary definition of these terms. In its struggle to establish greater democracy in industry, a struggle which began with efforts to secure the most simple and ele- mental measures of justice, the measures that have been used by labor have to a large Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Teleokaphek. :>H4 degree necessarily been determined by the conditions under which the straggle baa been made. Where the boycott has been used, it has hot been used out of any desire on the part of labor to do any injury to others but it has been used because the tactics of the employers left to labor no other course to pursue. The same may be said regarding what the questionnaire terms “the secondary strike." It is not possible, nor is it desirable by law or decree to limit the freedom of action of working people who may either singly or collectively seek to improve the conditions under which they live and thus to make more valuable to the country their services and their citi- zenship. It would be inhuman to deny to any one group the right to go to the assist- ance of another group. History is largely made up of the struggles of groups of people to overcome their environment and to overcome oppression by other groups. The allied and associated nations in the world war could not have combined to over- throw German autocracy, if they had permitted themselves to be bound by the prin- ciple which it is here sought to set up. At various times and under varying conditions the straggle has taken on dif- ferent forms and at times it has been attended by a roughness and even a crude- ness which in the abstract might appear to be undesirable. The fact that civilisation is today at such an advanced stage is due solely to this age-long struggle. No intel- ligent person will deny that much improvement still is necessary. Neither will any intelligent person deny that there must be a continuance of the struggle if that improvement is to be secured. Regardless of what men may write into books, the struggle will take the form, for the most part, at least, which is demanded by tbe conditions under which it is waged. Under any circumstances employers have no property right in the labor power of human beings nor has any one a property right in the patronage of the people. 10. Should an impartial board be established to deal with conditions of employ ment and if so with what powers? (a) In government employments. (b) In public utilities and industries declared to be affected with a pub • lie interest. (c) In private employments. 11. Should industrial tribunals be established as agencies for conciliation and voluntary arbitration? 12. Should the establishment of such tribunals be left to private initiative, or should provision be made by law for their establishment? 13. Should a national tribunal be established to direct the organization of indus- trial tribunals in regions and industries where they are desired? 14. Should the number of the regional and local industrial tribunals be specially organized for each dispute, or should they be permanent to deal with all questions? 15. Should the national, regional and local industrial tribunals be composed of representatives of employers and employes, and how should they be selected? 16. Should representatives of organized labor be chosen by the unions and th* representatives of unorganized labor by those employes working under shop-represen- tation plans? 17. Should the public be represented on any or all of the tribunals — national, regional, local? 18. How should representatives of the public be chosen? 19. Where the parties do not agree to submit their differences to the appropriate tribunal, should the tribunal have the right, through compulsory process, to investi- gate the matter and make public recommendations? 20. Should the decisions of the national, regional or local industrial tribunals be by a majority vote, or by a unanimous vote? 21. Should the parties maintain continuous production pending decision by tribunals and how can this best be secured? Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 585 22. Should the continuance of production be a condition precedent to the tribunals taking jurisdiction as a board of arbitration? 23. Should there be a right of appeal where the local tribunal is unable to reach a decision? 24. If the decision is by majority vote, should there be any right of appeal to the national tribunal? Question No. 10 and subsequent questions up to 24, inclusive, deal entirely with matters which are developed out of question No. 10, all having to do with the establishment of boards and tribunals for the arbitration or conciliation of Industrial disputes. The answer to question No. 10 will cover the situation. Durihg the war organized labor was in entire accord with the establishment of the National War Labor Board and it sought generally to avail itself of the services of the Board in Its ardent desire that there be no interference with the processes of production while the war continued. Many institutions and many practices were made use of during the war which are not suitable to the needs of peace. The war has ended even though Congress has not yet seen fit to make formal admission of that fact. It is clear that the thought underlying most of the proposals for so-called labor boards and tribunals of national scope for the handling of industrial disputes is that by such means the progress of labor will be retarded. There has not yet been suggested any plan for tribunals of this character which is correct in principle. The trade union movement is the normal and natural expression of labor’s desire and necessity for organization. The trade union movement, in co-operation with employers, has worked out ma- chinery for the handling of industrial disputes and for the prevention of industrial disputes. This machinery being the product of the normal and natural function of labor in Its organized capacity, must stand and does stand as the proper and practical machinery for this purpose. In its creation there has been expressed the sum total of the wisdom and experience of the industries in which it is applied and it is safe to say that there is within any given industry a greater knowledge concernng the operation and the needs of that industry than can be brought to bear from any outside agency. It is a matter of record that the machinery erected by organized labor in co-operation with the employers has enabled some Industries to continue without interruption, without strike or lockout, for as long as forty years. As specific examples there may be cited the Class Bottle Blowers, the Stove Moulders and the Newspaper Printing trades. Where the machinery offered by the trade union movement is accepted and applied with intelligence, good will and earnestness, every desirable object is achieved and every fair demand is met. Where there is not intelligence, good will, earnestness, no machine will serve the purpose. The trade union movement insists that there must be a constant extension of the principles of democracy in industry, but it contends that the practical application of this principle must be worked out within the industry itself. It cannot be laid down upon the industry from the outside like a blanket, with anything but unfavorable and perhaps disastrous results. All of the questions in the questionnaire between and including Nos. 10 and 24’, are born largely out of the realm of theory and abstraction, and have no bearing upon national political issues. The whole Bubject involved is a matter that is distinctly industrial in character and that must find its practical solution out of the expe- rience and practice of the industrial field itself. The experiences of Australia and New Zealand, and even of European countries, such as Germany, and, more recently, such as England, should warn America to leave these questions to the field of which they are native and to refrain from artificial effort to transplant them to the field of politics. The nation is going through a sufficient industrial agony without adding to it by experimentation with human lives which is condemned in advance. 25. What is the proper scope of injunction in labor disputes? The injunction has no place in labor disputes. The use of the injunction In a Digitized by Google

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586 The Railroad Telegrapher. democratic nation to restrain the aspirations of working people for an extension of the horizon of democracy and for the enlargement of their opportunities is a strange contradiction. The injunction like so much of the remainder of our legal structure has come to us through a body of decrees and judge-made precedents upon precedents. The use of injunctions in labor disputes is to evade trial under law, destroy the presumption of innocence and deny the constitutional guarantee of trail by jury. 26. What abuses of injunctions in labor disputes suggest remedies or restrictions Gi this power? The history of injunctions in labor disputes in the United States in the last twenty-five years is sufficient answer. A few conspicuous cases may be mentioned— the Buck Stove and Range Company case,’ the Hitchman Coal and Coke Company vs. The United Mine Workers of America and the recent injunction Issued by Judge Anderson against the United Mine Workers of America. Attention is called to the publication by the House of Representatives of a volume containing the Hitch- man Coal and Coke Company case. 27. Should sickness insurance be established in industry, and if so, how? (a) Compulsory or voluntary. (b) Jointly managed by employers and employes or by either separately. 28. Should entire cost of sick benefits be borne by industry as part of cost of production or divided between employers and employes? 29. Should the government assist in the organization and development of sickness insurance? The whole subject of health insurance is one upon which a variety of suggestions have been offered, most of which have been impractical and some of which hare been vicious. Only with the greatest care and upon the best advice of the workers in their organized capacity should steps be taken toward the development of any- thing definite in the direction of health insurance. Schemes for health insurance usually worked out by welfare and uplift organizations are of such a paternalistic nature as to be absolutely dangerous. The trade union movement is at the present time conducting an investigation into the whole subject of sickness insurance. 30. Would a system of local, state and federal public employment exchanges, such as is operating successfully in Great Britain today, be desirable? It was with the deepest regret that organized labor witnessed the disbanding of the system of free federal employment agencies built up during the war. Labor exerted every possible effort to prevent the disbanding of those agencies. Agencies of a similar character should be re-established. The need of the workers for employment should cease forever to offer a field for private employment agencies which are Invariably oppressive and inefficient. 31. Would such a system of local, state and federal employment exchanges be more desirable if administered by a joint commission of employers and employes rather than by government agencies? Labor ought by all means to have a voice in the administration of public employment agencies. There is no field in which it is more proper that labor should exercise a voice commensurate with its importance. Furthermore, the voice of labor exercised in the administration of a system of free public employment agencies should be exercised in consultation with the trade union movement. Labor representation should be upon nomination by the trade union movement. 32. What is the most practical plan of bringing the worker and the job anto matically together? The intent of this question is not entirely clear. It is to be doubted whether any machinery can be erected for automatically bringing the workers and the job together. An automatic operation is an operation in which no human intelligent is required. The utmost of human intelligence would be required in the proper conduct of a system of free employment agencies. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 587 33. Should unemployment insurance be established in industry and, if so, how? 34. Is it practical to put part of the cost of unemployment benefits on the in- dustry in the proportion of two-thirds to be paid by the employer and one-third by the employe, or in any other proportion? 35. Would it be advisable to provide for invalidity, retirement, and old age benefits in the same way, as suggested above for sickness and unemployment benefits and insurance? 36. Should maternity insurance and provision for compulsory rest periods, before and after childbirth, be established as a charge upon the industry? These four questions are so related to each other that they may be answered as one. In the first place the principle which was apparently in mind in choosing the language of these questions is a decidedly erroneous one. Two of the questions refer to “benefits.” Whatever compensation ought to be awarded to those in industry by reason of unemployment, invalidity or old age, should not be by way of benefits, but by way of compensation. Workers contribute their lives to industry. They give their whole lives to industry. They are entitled to get back, as the result of that contribution, sufficient to maintain them so long as life lasts. Furthermore, they are entitled to sufficient to maintain them in a standard of living fitting to our time and our country. To speak of benefits for workers who are not paid a sufficient wage to make benefits unnecessary is to emphasize the irony of industrial injustice. The Jpdustrial world must be brought to a point where it returns to the workers a sufficient amount to maintain them throughout their lives and not only that but the industrial system must be brought to a point where it affords to the workers a constantly increasing measure of life and a constantly increasing margin of safety. The terminology of benefits and charity is repugnant to the world of labor and the concept which that terminology expresses must give way and be discarded. Unemployment, invalidity, the vicissitudes of old age, when labor contribution is no longer possible, should be considered a proper charge against industry. The time has passed when industry can take from the workers the best efforts of their early years and discard them, worn out, broken down, in middle age. The point raised in question No. 36 brings out a serious and tragic reflection upon our present industrial life. It Implies that it is necessary for mothers and those about to become mothers to work in gainful occupations! It seeks to find a way to make this employment tolerable, to give it a sanction and standing. If the injustices of industry do for the present make consideration of this problem necessary, and it must be admitted that they do, the principle involved must be viewed in the same light as that involved in questions 33, 34 and 35. In relation to the whole subject there can be no thought of benefits and the greatest care must be exercised so that no system of state tyranny shall be built up out of the needs of the workers. 37. How and by whom should standards of restrictive legislation for women be determined with respect to — (a) Limitation of hours? (b) Night work? (c) Dangerous and unhealthy occupations? Standards for restrictive legislation and also for conditions within the industries themselves should be established in accordance with the best judgment of the trade union movement and in co-operation with the United States Department of Labor. There should be a constant study and a constant development by the Department of Labor of policies and standards in the industry of the country for the safeguarding of the interests of women workers. 38. Is the principle of equal pay for equal work correct and, if so, how can it be made effective? The principle of equal pay for equal work is correct and there should be no mystery about the method of making it effective. Not only is the principle of Digitized by VjOOQle

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58$ The Railroad Telegrapher. equal pay for equal work correct, but it is also true that standards for minimum wages necessary to maintain life at a proper standard should apply to women in industry as well as men. 39. Should the standards of the Federal Child Labor law be raised with respect to existing prohibitions? (a) Employment in mills, canneries, workshops, factories or manufac- turing establishments prohibited for children under 14. (b) Employment between 14 and 16 years of age not more than 8 hours per day nor more than 6 days per week, or after 7 p. m. or before 6 a. m. (c) Mines and quarries — employment under 16 years of age prohibited. It is the settled conviction of the American labor movement that the minimum age at which children should be employed in any industry is sixteen years. It is the further conviction that after this age ample provisions should be made for the continuation of education and for the proper physical development of children. 40. Should scope of Federal Child Labor law as indicated above in question S3 be extended with respect to — (a) Additional occupations? (b) Agricultural labor? (c) Mercantile establishments? (d) Specially dangerous or morally hazardous employment? (e) Educational and physical qualiflcation^for employment? Yes, and at the earlist possible moment. 41. Should higher age requirements or greater restrictions be imposed for girls than for boys? Yes, in so far as protecting the future motherhood of the race makes sucb increased restrictions necessary. 42. Should one day’s rest in seven be compulsory for all workers? The duration of the work week should not exceed six days and employers should be compelled to grant at least one full day of rest in each week. The question implies that it is necessary to compel the workers to rest one day per week. The workers have struggled bitterly for decades to secure one day of rest per week. Any condition that does not allow it is solely the fault of recalcitrant and reactionary employers. 43. Is the standard eight-hour day desirable in all industries? In no industry should the maximum workday exceed eight hours. In some industries both the health of the workers and such questions as regularity and con- tinuity of employment may easily make a shorter workday desirable from every viewpoint. In Borne American industries experience has led to the conclusion that a shorter workday is desirable and to the introduction of a shorter workday. 44. Would the recognition of a standard eight-hour day with a temporary gen- eral agreement to work nine hours with one hour overtime pay be desirable under present industrial conditions, and would such understanding serve to increase pro- duction and reduce high cost of living? Assuming that the above question is asked seriously, permit us to say that such an understanding would be intolerable. There is no present necessity in Americas industry for a workday exceeding eight hours in length. Proper conduct of industry, proper organization and proper executive management can, without difficulty, obviate whatever necessity may be apparent for a workday exceeding eight hours in length. The excessive cost of living is not due in any degree whatever to the eight-hour workday and a -workday of greater duration would have no effect in reducing the cost of living. The causes for the high cost of living lie so entirely outside the field here presented as to make the suggestion preposterous. The United States Depart- ment of Labor has recently announced that during the period which has elapsed since Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Hail road Telegrapher. 589 1913, the average union wage has increased but 55 per cent while the average cost of living has increased 83.1 per cent, is sufficient answer to any implication that the hours of labor or the wages of labor have had the effect of inflicting upon the American people the intolerable, shameful and unjust inflation of the cost of living. Any effort to lengthen the workday either permanently or temporarily would be a per- nicious and vicious effort to throw upon the shoulders of labor a still greater burden and would have not the effect of bringing relief to any of our people. 45. Should the three-shift system be compulsory in continuous industries? There should not be less than three shifts in any continuous Industry. Health, safety and welfare demand this. 46. What should be the standard number of hours in the working week? The standard number of hours in the working week should be fixed by the employers and employes in each industry through collective agreement, but, in no case should the number of hours exceed eight per day, with one-half holiday on Saturday. 47. Should minimum wage boards be established — (a) For all wage earners? (b) For women and minors only? (c) For all industries or only for specified industries? 48. Should the decisions of such boards be enforced by law as at present in the District of Columbia, Oregon and other States, or by public opinion after publication of names of those who do not comply, as in Massachusetts law? If employers, generally, will accept the machinery offered by the trade union movement and enter into the making of trade agreements through collective bargain- ing, there will be no necessity for minimum wage boards. The idea of establishing such boards is, in the main, an effort to defeat the purposes of organized labor and to weaken its influence, at the same time placing in the hands of political authorities, far removed from the world of industry, a power and authority which they are not qualified to exercise and which they can seldom exercise with intelligence and justice. 49. Should the principle of workmen’s compensation for accidents be extended to cover occupational diseases? Yes. 50. Should the Federal Workmen’s Compensation Act, now applicable to civil employes, be extended? (a) To railroad employes? (b) No other employes? (c) With respect to any other hazards of industry? Under our dual form of government Federal compensation laws should include and extend to all wage earners not governed by State compensation laws. 51. How can thrift be encouraged among wage earners? Of course thrift is desirable and commendable but the encouragement of thrift among wage earners is far from being a primary question. There can be no great enthusiasm for thrift among wage earners until they have something with which to be thrifty. There must first be paid to the wage earner a wage adequate to maintain the American standard of living. Too much of American industry does not yet afford such a wage. Figures show that great masses of American workers are still endeavoring to overcome the advancing costs of living and that they are still far behind in the race. Arguments for thrift can make no appeal under such circum- stances. There is room for vast economy of the most fundamental and essential nature in the conduct of industry itself in the regulation of industrial processes so that there may be regular and continuous operation, in the employment of machinery to its fullest capacity and in the utilization of improved methods and processes wherever possible. Such thrift would be a true national economy. To neglect this broader and more fundamental economy while coaxing underpaid working Digitized by VjOOQle

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590 The Railroad Telegrapher. people to be thrifty with that they do not have is typical of a great deal of present- day American statesmanship and is typical of a great deal of ignorance and mis- understanding regarding industry and its problems. Of course thrift, intelligent thrift, and thrift for patriotic purposes is commendable and has been loyally sup- ported by the masses of the workers. 52. What form of profit sharing, if any, will promote thrift, co-operation, and a better understanding of the function of the capitalist as trustee and administrator of wealth in the interests of producers and consumers alike? Is this question predicated upon a possible declaration of a national political party to the effect that employers are “trustees and. administrators of wealth in the interests of producers and consumers alike?*' Surely this is interesting. By what right have they obtained trusteeship? By Divine Right? American labor entertains no such delusion. Trustees derive their authority from a principal who trusts them. “Producers and consumers’* have, so far as the records show, never agreed upon any “trustee" of the character here suggested. The thrift section of the question should be kept distinct from the ridiculous assumption of capitalist trusteeship and is dealt with in reply to question 51. Profit sharing is not a device for the promotion of thrift and co-operation. It is a device for the entrenchment of privilege and for the subjection of workers. It is calculated to produce docility of spirit and to discourage organization among the workers. Without organization and without freedom of action among workers there can be no true and effective co-operation with employers for any of the objects which are worth while in industry. The capitalist who asks the workers to accept profit- sharing has no notion that he is acting in the capacity of a trustee in the adminis- tration of the property he possesses and the implication to that effect in the question is evidently a crude and clumsy effort to give standing and circulation to a miscon- ception. Does the question imply the resurrection of the idea of the trusteeship of wealth which was believed to have been interred with the remains of the late Geo. P. Baer? 53. What kind of “blue sky" laws or other measures will best protect small investors from worthless investments and at the same time secure their participation and co-operation in industrial enterprises? 64. Should all issues of securities be subject to Government scrutiny? Careful study falls to remove the suspicion of inconsistency between these two questions and the question Immediately preceding. The assumption that the beneficent “trustees" need to be restrained from doing violent financial injury to the small investors who have not attained to the stature of “trusteeship" is novel, at least, and on the whole interesting. The best reply to what may be the thought underlying both of these questions is found in the declaration of labor representatives (adopted in Washington, D. C., on December 13, 1919) entitled “Labor, Its Grievances, Protests and Demands." The following section from that document should be given mo6t serious attention: “Credit Is the life blood of modern business. At present under the control of private financiers it is administered not primarily to serve the needs of production, but the desire of financial agencies to levy a toll, upon community activity as high as 'the traffic will bear/ “Credit is inherently social. It should be accorded in proportion to confidence in production possibilities. Credit as now administered does not serve industry but burdens it. It increases unearned income at the expense of earned incomes. It is the center of the malevolent forces that corrupt the spirit and purpose of industry. “We urge the organization and use of credit to serve production needs and sot to increase the incomes and holdings of financiers. Control over credit should be taken from financiers and should be vested in a public agency, able to administer this power as a public trust in the interest sof all the people/' Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 591 55. Should the labor of prisoners be utilized for their physical and industrial training in production of goods for Government uses (the State-use system) and paid for so as to provide — (b) For the support of their dependent families? (b) A fund to start them in an honest livelihood upon release from prison? The American Federation of Labor has repeatedly declared that “convict labor should be employed only by the State and for State use only/* and that “departure from this principle would be disastrous to the public welfare as well as to the welfare of the convicts whose confinement is primarily for reformatory purposes. We are of the opinion, however, that such labor should be performed under conditions tending to assist in the convict's reformation." It would seem not only a measure of broad national economy but a measure of fairness to make certain that released convicts be assured a fund sufficient to start them in life upon release. There is no reason why if the position of the American Federation of Labor is made effective in law, the fruits of the convict’s labor, while imprisoned, should not only go at least part way towards providing for such a new beginning but should also apply towards the support of dependent families during the term of imprisonment. Very respectfully yours, ( Signed ) SAMUEL GOMEPRS. MATTHEW WOLL, FRANK MORRISON, Platform -Committee, National Non-Partisan Campaign of the American Federation of Labor. Digitized by VjOOQle

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Nine hundred and sixty new members were initiated into the Order during the month of April. his statement that workers cannot get their rights from employers simply be cause they are rights. The 15,000 organized oil workers in California have notified the president that if the Government will supply equipment the unionists will furnish all the neces- sary men to develop and operate Govern- ment oil lands, thereby relieving the oil shortage. Legislation to provide penalties fur vio- lations of ontracts made' between union organizations and employers is under con- sideration by the Canadian Parliament at Ottawa, Ont. The contemplated legisla- tion would end “outlaw” strikes, it is claimed by its supporters, and would up- hold the rights of unionism. The union label insures stability in business, because the principles it stands for are sound, enduring and unchange- able. For the information of the entire mem- bership, Chicago, Rock Island -& Pacific Railway System Division will now be known as Division No. 35 and the Chi- cago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Sys- tem Division as Division No. 37. These divisions were formerly numbered 126 and 130 respectively. The United States Bureau of War Risk Insurance urges all ex-service men to take advantage of Government insurance that has been established for their bene- fit. Prompt information will be for- warded by the Bureau at Washington or by the many war work organizations in every community. The union label constitutes recognition of the union by making certain the recog- nition of union products. There are 18,279 schools in this conn* try that have been closed because teach- ers have been starved out and cannot continue on the low wages paid, said Arthur E. Holder, member Federal Board for Vocational Education. He has summarized the Board's investigation of this question and declares that “the par amount issue of today Is the welfare of our children, our schools and our teach- ers." Landlords are slipping through the New York State legislation that is intended to check rent profiteering. One law pro- vides that landlords shall “show cause" why rents should be increased. They evade this by ousting the tenant when his lease expires and then renting the prop- erty to the highest bidder. The demand for houses is so great in this city that families are arranging to live in army tents. Hotel keepers in the State of Washing- ton are up In arms over a women’s $18 weekly minimum wage that has been recommended by a conference created by the State Industrial Welfare Commission. An attorney for the hotel men Bald this award would permit the women to live in luxury. Defenders of the award proved by statistics that even $18 is not suf- ficient to maintain a woman in reasonable comfort. The New York State Senate has re- jected a bill to create a commission with power to investigate conditions in indus- tries in which women and minors are employed. The author of the bill pre- sented good trade union philosophy in Trade unionists in Texas are urged to take an active part In the precinct and county conventions that will elect dele gates to the San Francisco convention of the dominant party in that State. ’’Every wage earner,” says Secretary* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 593 Treasurer McKinley of the State Federa- tion of Labor, “should take an active part in these conventions to the end that none but friends of organized labor be sent as delegates to the State convention.” If the House approves a retirement bill that has been passed by the Senate, it will prove a money saver for Uncle Sam. It is stated that the Government is now paying annually $6,738,150 to some 8,125 employes for work done by other em- ployes. It would cost the Government about $4,917,000 a year to retire these em- ployes. The joint conference of retire- ment, representing the civil service em- ployes, has forwarded these estimates to every member of the House. The official call for the Fortieth Annual Convention of the American Federation of Labor, which is to be held in Montreal commencing June 7th, has been issued from Washington by President Samuel Gompers. The delegates to represent our organization are H. B. Perham, past pres- ident; E. J. Manion, president; W. L. Braun, assistant general chairman of the G. C. & S. F. Lines ; Owen D. Gorman, gen- eral chairman of the Atlanta, Birmingham & Atlantic, and M. W. Atkins, of the Nor- folk & Western. Both branches of congress have passed the vocational rehabilitation bill which is intended to aid persons disabled in in- dustry or otherwise and to assist them in their return to civil employment. The Federal board for vocational education will have charge of the plan and will co- operate with the various States. While the Senate and House are agreed on the principle of the bill, there are differences as to details and these will be adjusted in conference. The bill marks a new depart- ure in national legislation. Both branches of congress have passed the vocational rehabilitation bill which is intended to aid persons disabled in indus- try or otherwise and to assist them in their return to civil employment. The Federal board for vocational education will have charge of the plan and will co- operate with the various states. While the Senate and House are agreed on the principle of the bill there are differences as to details and these will be adjusted in conference. The bill marks a new depar- ture in national legislation. The union label is the inspiration, the guidepost, and the rallying point of the energetic and conscientious woman in every community. It gives ' us the Woman’s Union Label League. If a man wants to air his views, let him talk, said Glenn Frank, associate editor of Century Magazine. Free speech should be allowed the fullest possible expression, the speaker said, “since extreme doctrines, like germs, die in the sunlight but flourish in darkness.” “The American people can be trusted to take the necessary action when it sees liberty really menaced. There should not be a stopping, but the most effective stim- ulation of free speech.” The union label, symbolizing as it does the conditions which the union itself is established to secure and maintain, is proof that these conditions obtain in the making of the article upon which it appears. Firm names, brands, trade- marks and other devices by which prod- ucts are advertised may lose their origi- nal significance through changes in the fortunes of those who own them. The* union label, being owned by the union, and subject exclusively to Its control, represents the same thing always, name- ly, fair wages and hours, clean work- shops and good workmanship. The trade unionists of England who have hoped that living costs would he reduced are confessing disappointment. Despite a strong anti-profiteering law from which much was expected, prices mount higher. As a part of this cam- paign workers have been urged to pro- duce more, and a large number of respon- sible trade union executives joined in this movement. As a result of the failure to secure lower prices workers in prac- tically every organized industry are ask- ing for increased wages. It is stated that on February 1 last living costs were 130 per cent higher' than pre-war prices. Digitized by Google

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PERSONAL MENTION The following births have been re- ported since the last issue of The Teleg- rapheb: To Bro. and Mrs. E. T. Fry, of Celeste, Tex., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. F. Cooks, of Hornell, N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. A. Canafax, of Weatherford, Tex., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. P. M. Hicks, of Center, Texas, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. W. B. Edwards, of South Berkeley, Calif., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. W. T. Bierley, of Beaver, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. F. B. Holcomb, of Springfield, Ohio, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. R. G. Anderson, of Gatesville, Miss., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Ward O’Neil, of Beav- er Falls, Pa., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. C. M. Love, of Rosa- mond, Calif, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. M. T. Parks, of Bain- bridge, Indiana, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. T. M. Mitchell, of Humrick, Illinois, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. O. Robinson, of Del Ray, Calif., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. O. Twedt, of Prior Lake, Minn., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. F. E. Young, of Tex- arkana, Texas, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. F. E. Houdersheldt of Denton, Neb., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. N. W. Bishop, of Chowchilla, Calif., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. N. A. D’Amour, of Highlands, Que., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. G. F. Charbonneau, of Highlands, Que., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. R. Legendre, of High- lands, Que., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Jos. Pelletier, of St. Anne, Man., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. H. M. Smith, of Win- field, Iowa, a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. A. Hail, of Som- erset, Ky., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. J. Lampe, of Winona, Minn., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Lee A. Scalf, of Belle- vue, Wis., a girl. - To Bro. and Mrs. Ss J. Graves, of Sabina, Ohio, a girl. The following marriages have been re- ported since the last issue of The Teleg- rapher: At Montevideo, Minn., Brother 0. J. Kolb, of Div. 23, to Miss Esther Moudry. At Easton, Maryland, Brother L. V. Travers, of Div. 17, to Miss Frances E. Faulkner. At Hudson, Wise., Bro. Geo. Welch, of Div. 4, to Miss Florence Mitchell. At Billings, Montana, Bro. H. E. Hill- yer, of Div. 130, to Miss Olive Duncan. At Youngstown, Ohio, Bro. R. E. Was- son and Sister Marion Spear, both of Div. 17. At Azalea, N. C., Bro. A. B. Yow, of Div 59, to Miss Lewis. At Blanford, Ind., Sister EL Anderson, of Div. 180, to Mr. John Underwood. At Cynthiama, Ky., Bro. Ray Gardner, of Div. 62, to Miss Levy. At Monahans, Tex., Bro. J. B. Jarrell, of Div. 88, to Miss Mary Lee Terrefll At Chester, Montana, Sister Lyda Reip. of Div. 70, to Mrs. C. F. Scheppler. At Buffalo, N. Y., Sister Geraldine C. Deitrich, of Div. 30, to Mr. Edward Du- Pont. At Windsor, Vermont, Brother R. «*• Joyal, of Div. 171, to Miss Blanche Guild- At Mount Horeb, Wis., Bro. J. R Holden, of Div. 76, to Miss Ruth Garfoot Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 595 At Stanley, Ky., Bro. L. A. McFadden, to Sister Lillie R. Coleman, both of Div. 58. At Warsaw, Ind., Bro. F. W. Guy, of Div. 17, to Miss Bernice Magee. The Telegrapher extends congratula- . tions to the happy couples. The following deaths have been re- ported since the last issue of The Teleg- rapher: Wife of Bro. K. R. Grooms, and daugh- ter of Bro. and Sister Wm. E. Blue, ail of Div. 3. Bro. E. C. Bange, of Div. 17. Bro. Paul E. Stewart, of Div. 17. Bro. James G. Ohtis, of Div. 8. Bro. William J. McKeon, of Div. 8. Bro. E. E. Swartley, of Div. 10. Wife of Bro. J. E. Boggs, of Div. 3. Sister of Bro. John Stadler, of Div. 3. Mother of Bro. L. M. Davis, of Div. 130. Bro. W. E. Hawley, of Div. 130. Wife of Bro. J. F. Kenney, of Div. 127." Daughter of Bro. A. M. Maloney, of Div. 127. Mother of Bro. Wm. Poultney, of Div. 52. Bro. R. W. Bevans, of Div. 126. Brother of Bro. R. H. Post, of Div. 17. Bro. H. A. Fulmer, of Div. 9. Father of Bro. Wm. J. Ogden, Jr., of Div. 180. Daughter of Bro. R. T. Tolliver, of Div. 180. Bro. G. C. Read, of Div. 1. Bro. R. B. Goodwin, of Div. 54. Sister of Bro. T. H. Ritchie, of Div. 54. Bro. L. R. Resseguie, of Div. 53. Father of Bro. A. E. Beatty, of Div. 53. Bro. John Stewart, of Div. 54. Bro. El C. Murray, of Div. 153. Sister of Bro. Wm. E. Poppe, of Div. 116. Father of Bro. Jos. Leclerc, of Div. 7. Sister of Bro. G. W. Ayer, of Div. 76. Mother of Bro. H. A. Ware, of Div. 76. Wife of Bro. J. U. McClure, of Div. 17. Son of Bro. E. D. Birkimer, of Div. 17. Father of Bros. Frank and Will Hill- yer, both of Div. 33. Bro. J. H. Cook, of Div. 62. Bro. B. P. Shewmaker, of Div. 62. Bro. A. J. Jones, #f Div. 62. Mother of Bro. Arthur Krueger, of Div. 76. Father of Bro. A. F. Jones, of Div. 57. Sister of Bro. I. M. Harris, of Div. 57. Father of Sisters Florence C and Mary C. Connell, both of Division 61. Infant daughter of Bro. D. F. Hunter, of Div. 59. The bereaved relatives have the sym- pathy of all. WANTED. Present address of Jack P. Herr. Last heard of working somewhere in South- west. If you see this, kindly communi- cate with Anna E. Herr, 16 North Ann Street. Homestead settlement. Wm. H. Herr, 16 North Ann St., Chicago, 111. Present address of F. J. Umhoefer. Last heard of working as train dispatcher at Lusk, Wyo. Frank, if you see this, write your folks at once. E. L. Rahn, Anthon, Iowa. Present address of W. G. Patton, who worked on the C. P. R. at Nicomen Pit. B. C., in 1913. Last heard of in Seattle, Wash., with the Puget Sound Electric Railway. Also Operator “Kennedy". Last heard of in Seattle. “Boys, write me." T. L. Mhxoway, Norwood, Va. Present address of Everett Arnold. Last heard of worked third trick at Coof Bluff, Indiana, for C. & E. I. and Big Four. Buck, if you see this, write your mother at once concerning death of your sister, and pay check. C. J. R0Y8E, 2412 N. 13th St.. Terre Haute, Ind. Whereabouts of W. I. Hendricks. Last heard of working on the P. M. R. R. His brother wishes to locate him. R. M. Burr, Central Lake, Mich. Digitized by L-ooQle

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596 The Railroad Telegrapher. L. F. Lee, if you see this ad, wire your mother at once. Important. Mbs. J. W. Forsyth, 1243 E. Ryder St., Litchfield, III. Whereabouts of H. B. Gross. Last heard of working for a broker at Hunts- ville, Ala. “G,” if you see this, write. Your relatives are very anxious about you. H. D. Cleaver, Marianna, Ark. To hear from a bunch of live members. A matter of vital Interest. S. M. Davis, 1124 So. Sherman St., Denver, Colo. Address of Chas. Tracey, formerly oper- ator for W. U. Tel. Co., New York and Albany. H. E. D. c-o Railroad Telegrapher, Mb. State Life Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. Address of Gilbert C. Atwill, formerly of Alliance, Nebr., and Sterling, Colo. Mbs. J. W. Tynan, 415 Laramie Ave., Alliance, Nebr. LOST OR STOLEN. Card No. 55740, Cert. 122, Div. 126, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 43119, Cert 105, Div. 61, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 26415, Cert. 2716, Div. 130, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 2423, Cert. 3118, Div 126, for year 1920. Card No. 43332, Cert. 3899, Div. 61, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 37383, Cert 3732, Div. 61, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 57493, Cert. 2075, Div. 28, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 29614, Cert. 799, Div. 44, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 9316, Cert. 3280, Div. 130, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 41561, Cert 2168, Div. 31, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 53694, Cert. 125, Div. 70, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 48649, Cert 2017, Div. 36, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 48839, Cert. 3662, Div. «L for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 29762, Cert. 2046, Div. 54, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 26776, Cert 2379, Div. 32, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 32643, Cert. 3159, Div. 1, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 41914, Cert. 2198, Div. 76, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 58096, Cert. 3739, Div. 126, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 45370, Cert. 267, Div. 61, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 18958, Cert 6499, Div. 17, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 52659, Cert 838, Div. 39, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 42571, Cert 462, Div. 22, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 18283, Cert. 245, Div. 10, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 53429, Cert. 985, Div. 76, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 7142, Cert. 2644, Div. 130, for year 1920. Card No. 55659, Cert. 397, Div. 55, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 5501, Cert. 269, Div. 54, for year 1920. Card No. 42805, Cert. 1794, Div. 28, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 56257, Cert 448, Div. 88, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 23643, Cert 1442, Div. 11, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 29843, Cert. 1115, Div. 70, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 34918, Cert 1409, Div. 29, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 53919, Cert. 217, Div. 17, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 69723, Cert 437, Div. 40, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual card No. 4906, Cert 3891, Div. 7, for year 1920. Digitized by Googk

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THAT QUESTIONABLE EIGHT-HOUR DAY. (By Kate E. Carr, President.) The legislators of New York State, af- ter listening to arguments on both sides of the question, have decided in favor of the Women's Equal Opportunity League and the hundreds of their outside self- appointed assistants, who, despite the ef- fects of careful cultivation, will appear in the fields, where welfare laws are being constructed. The substance of the League’s opposition was to the effect that limiting the working hours of women, or establishing a minimum wage for women is an infringement on woman’s personal liberty, as it makes it impossible for her to compete with man in the business worlcj. The equal opportunity seekers have evidently observed that a minimum wage follows closely the adoption of the eight-hour day. It will be recalled that at the time when compulsory education was a most radical measure, and the opposition be- came really alarmed, fearful that the bill might carry, they played their last trump card which bore the legend, “It's a transgression on man’s personal lib- erty.” And a few years later, at the time- ly funeral of John Barleycorn there were thousands of grievers who returned to their homes and wept because “the pet hobby of the W. C. T. U. had been trenched upon mankind.’’ All of which contributes to the fact that as long as there are two sides to a question, so long will there be opposition to any measure, regardless of its virtues. Consequently no law has ever been passed that didn’t inconvenience someone, somewhere. Today the working women of Arizona, California, Colorado, Washington, D. C., Kansas, Utah, Washington and Wiscon- sin are enjoying the benefits of the eight- hour day. Although the same objections were raised in these states at the time the bill was before their legislatures, which so recently convinced the legisla tors of New York, today the voting public would object as strenuously to the re- pealing of its eight-hour law as it would to the one making elementary educa- tion compulsory. Did not the legislar tors of New York know this before they delivered their verdict? Certainly. Why, then, should men of average intelligence refuse to grant to their working women that which law-making bodies of like in- telligence of Washington and California granted to their working women in 1911, knowing that the law has been so bene- ficial in those states? The legislators of New York, like the legislators of every state in the Union, vote in the interests of those who made it possible for them to be in the legis- lature. They vote for those who paid their campaign expenses; for the factory owners, industrial kings and men and women of influence. The ten states which have the eight-hour law for women have industrial kings, to be sure, but those industries are not of a nature to al- low the wholesale exploitation of wom- en workers. On the other hand. New York state, with its thousands of fac- tories and sweat shops, is a fertile field for the influential men and women who Digitized by VjOOQle

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598 The Railroad Telegrapher. reap great harvests of wealth at the expense of the thousands of women who toil long hours for a paltry existence. Think for a moment what would hap- pen to the profit columns of New York’s financiers if the thousands, one might be safe in saying millions, of women who toil any number of hours that their bosses may demand for a wage that ranges from worse than, nothing up to ten dollars per week, would stop working each day at the end of eight hours* toil and would re- ceive not less than eighteen dollars per week, which represents the minimum wage paid to J;he unskilled working wom- en in the state of Washington. Law makers of New York had no alternative but to vote against a shorter work day. As a result of the vote, the avaricious members of New York’s aristocracy of working women, which includes stenog- raphers, bookkeepers, telegraphers, and the better paid nurses, can ' be assured that their so-called personal liberty in the business world will not be infringed upon for another series- of months. Mean- while a thousand women may gain a few dollars in overtime, while a hundred thousand of the state’s future mothers will suffer from undernourishment and sieges of fatigue poisoning. A thousand working women may gain worth-while promotion in their business endeavors, while a hundred thousand will lose their self respect via the long hours and no pay route. A few hundred children may be able to take music lessons for a few months as a result of the bill’s defeat; while ten times , that number will take their places in the sweat-shops because their mother’s health has failed as a re- sult of long hours of toil. And for e?ery young woman who is packing her trunk preparatory to taking that vacation earned by overtime, somewhere a gray- haired grandmother win scrub office floors twelve or more hours per night for a chance to exist in that alley of life where death marks the one vacation. But the eight-hour day is not lost Some day our great army of working women is going to realize that the only foundation on which to build our future social structure, is one cemented to- gether with co-operation. When that day dawns they are going to realize that no chain, even one of working women, is stronger than its weakest link. Hence an injury to one is the concern of alL And the greatest good to the greatest number will be found to be a safe maxim to follow when deciding upon questions affecting one’s fellow workers. Perhaps the eight-hour bill will soon come before the legislators of your state. If so, pre- pare yourself to be a booster in its favor. The increasing cost of living places your increasing wages on a scale which Is con- stantly losing more of its buying power, but an hour gained in a shorter work day is a compenastion that cannot be taken from you. Digitized by VjOOQle

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Spring Gardening. Just now I can’t have any fun With Grandma or my Aunt, For they are reading catalogues And planning what to plant. My Aunt always plays with me — Or else she sings or reads ; But now she looks at catalogues And packages of seeds. They have a dozen catalogues, And Grandma sits and reads them ; I want to cut the pictures out. But she says, “No, we’ll need them.” Grandpa declares : “This year I’ll have A fine crop of potatoes.” And Grandma answers, “Just you wait Till you see my tomatoes.” This morning Aunty promised me If I would play alone. She’d give me seeds and I could plant A garden of my own. — Kansas City Star. The Fast Mail. When the old Fast Mail goes thunderin' past She shakes the earth like a Holocast ; I'm an old Rail-scout, but I do declare, I*m scared to death by the rattle and glare As she tears along* so fast ! The mail sacks hang on the spindle racks And away they go with sharp “ker- whacks” ! Old Eagle Eye seems chained to his seat And stiff like a mummy from head to feet As he peers along the track. He glares ahead with steadfast eye Through ribbons of steam that backward fly; His face is a masque of grimmest grime, — The engine rocks to a tuneful rhyme, — He earns his pay, says I ! He throttles the Monster’s irort heartbeat ; He’s strong of arm ; and glued to seat. — While his pal is more like an Automaton ; Short on brain, but long on brawn. — Yet a lad that’s hard to beat! With watchful eye on furnace door He springs the clockwork trap in door, And muttsfrs a curse, “I’ll kiss the Book !” As he meets the dwindling ^team-clock’s look, And fills her maw once more! So around the bend, and away they lope, These gallant lads whose only hope Is SAFETY FIRST, and the “On Time” words, — “All Strictly Business” are these birds, — You can tell it by their smolcr! * — K. Wallis. Living. If you could just be young once more And live your life again. Would you remake each old mistake, Just as you made it then? Or would you greater wisdom show Each time when you were tried. And take a tack so, looking back , You would be satisfied? No doubt you think, if you are like The general run of men, That you would give a lot to live All through your life again, And you may think, as most would think, That if you only could. You’d never make an old mistake— But probably you would. — Somerville Journal. Third Trick on the Orient. You think ’tis funny when they jeer Of sleeping on your trick. But this I want you all to hear. Don’t let it make you sick. When working third you’re bound to dote, And kick about the work, You’ve got more work than you can tote, And then, you cannot shirk. You’ve got expense bills by the stacks, And waybills by the score. But that big pile of abstracts Will surely make you sore. Talk about heart disease. Just listen here my chum ; There's “DI” you have to please. I’ll say that’s going some. Please let me know when extra west Picks up that car of hay ; Get empty boxes ; leave the rest. And see there’s no delay. Now if you’ll listen you will hear. The operators say they’re sick. So when you start to work Steer clear of that old third tri^;. —By X. I. Digitized by Google

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AN INQUIRY AND A DECLARATION. Elver since the last Grand Division session, I have diligently searched the pages of The. Telegrapher, expecting that I would see some suggestion offered in opposition to the extravagance in the conduct of our Conventions, and offering a solution that would merit attention from the membership, for it must be ad- mitted by any member who desires to be honest with himself that a better plan of conducting the biennial sessions could be devised, if some of our “brainy” brothers would devote a little thought to the problem instead of using all their spare time in devising means to increase their individual salaries, but so long as the Conventions are to be considered as a “vacation” instead of a period of con- scientious endeavor for the good of the Order, just so long will the “poor devil” out on the line be called upon to foot the bills. I have been taught to believe that “any fool can make money, but that it takes a wise man to save it” I am mov- ing on the presumption that this great Order contains “wise men,” who, if shown some feasible plan that would better, or, better still, eliminate the pres- ent admitted failure of our Conventions to function in harmony with progress and constructive legislation, would read- ily inaugurate the means to put it into effect. I am not assuming to monopolize all the wisdom or brains of the Order, but occasionally someone of mediocre talent or ability may possess an idea that is worthy of attention, so with the hope and sincere purpose of presenting something that will materially reduce the present exorbitant cost of our Con- ventions, something that I honestly and conscientiously believe will secure for the Order a better system and a far more satisfactory and workable plan of procedure must be my excuse .for ask- ing space in our journal. Do not Jump at the conclusion, my good Brothers, that this is a wail from one who does not know what he is talking about, one who speaks from the hedge of ignorance and inexperience, who possibly has some chimerical scheme founded upon illusion and vapor. Well, maybe you are right, but In any event I was present at St. Louis and being, so to speak, a new delegate, rep- resenting a new element in the Order, an inherent modesty .coupled with a keen desire to observe and learn, natu- rally precluded any expression at that time. I may take you into my confidence a little further by saying that this was not my first experience as a “dele- gate,” but truth and candor compels the admission that it was the first ex- perience to a convention of this char acter, and being possessed of the desire to. in some small measure, earn the salary the “poor devil” was paying me, I am not to be harshly condemned for saying that I was prevented from doing so principally because a howling and altogether unruly mob was in com- plete control of the Convention and, as usual, being an "unruly mob," had no consideration for the rights or privileges of anyone who did not think as they Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 601 did. Ho would, indeed, be a brave man who attempted to oppose the will of this mob, who dared to have an idea in op- position to the radical mouthings of self- styled leaders bent upon forcing you by Bheer noise and clamor to agree with their ideas. I carefully noted different men, who at times attempted to be heard upon matters that were of vital interest to the “rank and file,” rather than to the chosen few, but it was only at- tempted once. I also observed that out of the six hundred and fifty delegates present, there were possibly fifty who had anything to say. 1 am convinced, however, that there were many in excess of this “fifty” that would have liked to say something, but were deterred from doing so because of the reception that would be accorded them and their views. As you will doubtless recall, this “memo- rable” Convention lasted for three weeks. Have you ever taken the time or trouble to Inquire why It should have taken this length of time to transact the business of the Order. Do you realize that you paid for this “vacation” the nice tidy little sum of 1176,000; if you have and are content to go on paying like sums and consider that you are getting your money’s worth, why then, my little “growl” is wasted and you had better use your valuable time some other way, for we are both the loser. But if, on the other hand, you should perforce be like myself, earnestly desiring to get the full worth of the money you spend, It may be that 1 have a message that will be of interest to you, which, after all, Is the ORDER. Now, after you have figured this out and stared at the total until your eyes blink, try and figure out what you received in return for this enormous expenditure In the way of constructive legislation, of better laws, of improved working conditions, of, In fact, anything that was worth even the time spent, to say nothing of the money wasted, and when you have done all this and carefully weighed the result, just go into “executive session” with your good judgment and determine how much long- er you are going to be content to sit Idly by and permit this condition to con- tinue. I may be, in fact, I am, telling tales out of school, for which “pernicious activity” I am apt to be severely disci- plined, but, like your own good . self, I am one of the “poor devils” that help to foot the bills; still, if I thought for a moment that we were getting even 50 per cent efficiency fqr the 100 per cent dollar expended, I would doubtless be satisfied to allow the old order of things to continue on the theory that precedent had eetablished this and it would be fool- ish to Interfere. But since we don’t re- ceive the 50 per cent efficiency, in fact, as it appears to me, we don’t get any- thing but the “bills” to pay, why if my protest may awaken some small re- sponse, stir some Innermost recess of your being, sufficiently to cause you to join with me, I shall feel that my initial attempt to bring about needed reform has not been wholly without result. Do not understand me to say that I am not in favor of the Order meeting in convention at least once in every two years, for I am. It is well and It is wise that we should get together for an interchange of ideas and opinions. We are living in a rapid age, things, thoughts and conditions are changing daily, and if an organization is to keep abreast of the times its needs must realize as well as recognize this fun- damental principal and be prepared to take advantage of It by getting together and talking things over, to the end that its membership shall not suffer by rea- son of ignorance of existing conditions. But while the necessity for this inter- change of ideas exists it does not neces- sarily follow that we should be com- pelled to pay exorbitant sums for the privilege, especially when it is possible to secure equal, if not superior, ad- vantages with a considerably less ex- penditure. I realize that the change I propose will be the signal for attacks from all sides, but I desire to say can- didly that I am prepared to defend my plan against all argument or attack, and am confident that in time I will be able Digitized by Google

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602 The Railroad Telegrapher. to show the rank and file that I am proposing something that will be for the best interests of all concerned. At the last convention there were approximate- ly six hundred and fifty delegates, repre- senting something like 70,000 members. There is no doubt but what the repre- sentation will be greater at the next con- vention by reason of the great increase in membership. It will doubtless require at least fifteen days to transact the business of the session. Savannah being, so to speak, off of the main arteries of travel the bills for mileage are going to be considerable in excess of that of the St. Louis meeting. Owing to the enor- mous Increase In the cost of everything that goes into a session of this kind, it is reasonable to expect that the bills for convention expenses, other than dele- gates* per diem and mileage, will far exceed that of any other convention so far convened, and all this vast amount of money is drained from the treasuries of the Order in order that we may enjoy the advantages of the “mutual admira- tion society” that has come to regard these vacations as Its just due — a relax- ation from the cares and worries of their every day existence and a solace for their attention to duty back home. What do I propose in opposition to this? Why simply that we get down to business and do business in a business- like way. Let us reduce the representa- tion to a point that will secure us the best results; that will function with har- mony, progress and constructive legis- lation; that will meet with the purpose and for the purpose of doing that which will be for the best interests of the ENTIRE Order; that will work instead of frittering away the time and money of the membership; that will transact all the business of the convention in five days; that will have and advance ideas instead of noise, and that will exhibit consideration for the ideas and opinions of others instead of mobbing as at present indulged in. * * * Did you ever stop to figure what a roll call at a convention costs the Order? If you have, “nuf sed.” Think this over and when you have thought it over tet me have your opinion. A. Steele Pksse. CRAFT DAY. In recent issues of The Telegrapher I have been more than interested in the articles that had for their objective more than a passing tendency of a departure from the old line stuff about what was going on on such and such a Division. In this period of high price print pa- per and the ever increasing prices for home commodities, it seems to me that this space should be devoted to some- thing that is going to be of general in- terest to the craft as a whole. With these facts in mind I submit the follow- ing for mental digestion and comment of the members of the organization: Without any intention of detracting frbm the greatly appreciated efforts on the part of our Grand Officers In their co-operation with the other railroad brotherhoods to obtain an increase in wages and improvements in working conditions, it seem3 to me that, as an old line labor organization, we are de- teriorating rather than making any ef- fort at keeping abreast of other crafts. The following facts may not be tech nically true, but the substance will he reasonably accurate — sufficient to illus- trate the point. At the recent Washing ton conference it was contended, I be- lieve, that the increase for telegraphers by this organization be based on the rate of wages now obtaining on the Southern Pacific. , It was said that such an increase would be just and fair. At the present time the question of adjust- ing wages on the basis of justice and fairness in any one particular craft is not a basis of an equitable adjustment of that problem when the doctrine is not in adjustable harmony with the wages prevailing in other crafts, where ability and responsibility are at least no great* er. Heretofore our wages have been en- tirely based or wholly dependent -on competitive bargaining. What a tdef' rapher was paid in Maine might he quite a divergence from what he mjfht Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 603 receive in Illinois or Oregon, the point being that he is yet a telegrapher and a member of an old established labor organization, or, at least, a craftsman. In this manner it will be seen that we are not being paid in accordance with a union scale of wages, made effective and established by our union as other unions do; but we are clinging to that archaic system of a wage scale established oy and through the antediluvian method of collective bargaining, which means that every General Committee is encumbered with the responsibility of sitting down to the table with the management and fighting for every cent that he gets. This means that we have a varying wage 6cale throughout the country. Without any desire to deprecate the efforts and the results accomplished of other labor organizations, it will be noted that the carpenters establish a rate of wages of one dollar an hour for carpenters for a forty-four-hour week, with time and one- half for all overtime; the electricians are now paid one dollar and twenty-five cents an hour for a forty-four-hour week, with time and one-half for overtime; the painters one dollar an hour for the same number of hours and like overtime rate. Recently the coal truck drivers obtained an increase so that their weekly wages is thirty-three dollars for a forty-four- hour week, with time and one-half for overtime, ad infinitim. Assuming for the sake of the argu- ment that the training and requirements of your work and responsibilities are at least no less in degree than the crafts mentioned in their respective capacities, what chance have you in the field of hu- man endeavor to maintain your respecta- bility in a field of competition so utterly devoid of comparative equalities as are these? What possible chance have you, a workingman of equal ability, to hope to compete in this field at wages from fifty-five to seventy-five cents an hour with other crafts earning from one dol- lar to one dollar and twenty-five cents an hour? Taking your maximum as com- pared to the other crafts’ minimum what chance have you to buy or build a house when out of your seventy-five cents an hour you are called upon to pay the man who works for you in the construc- tion of your house a wage of from one dollar to one dollar and twenty-five cents? and you are working seven days to receive less than what he receives for five and one-half days? What we need as much as anything else in our heretofore conservative or- ganization is something in the shape of a new doctrine by establishing a uni- form wage scale exactly as other unions do rather than to fight for every cent that is obtained while the rest of us follow suit. In this way we are always leaving the battle to be fought by some General Committee* with the never-end- ing result that no standard is ever es- tablished, and the rest of us are sparring for position in an effort not so much to get what we ought to have as to get what some other committee obtained, based on absolutely no standard what- ever, and unless you are willing and continue to submit to a standard of liv- ing commensurate with respectability that is lesser In degree than the wages of the crafts above referred to you have got to change the whole modus operan- di now in operation. On the other hand, if you feel that your work is equally as important and exacting, and your quali- fications and responsibilities proportion- ally as great, then by all means insist that your wages shall be standardized and kept In accordance with that stand- ard Irrespective of where the work is done. If space is available comment is in- vited, but let us have “CRAFT PAY.” E. C. Barringer. THE AMERICAN LEGION AND UNION LABOR. (A reply to Capt. Johnson’s article on Union Labor and the American Legion.) Being in nowise fettered by Article of War 96, Army Rules and Regulations, I wish to rise from the ranks and take is- sue with my former Captain, Roscoe H. Johnson, on his article, entitled “Union Digitized by Google

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604 The Railroad Telegrapher. Labor and the American Legion,” which appeared in the April issue of the Telegrapher. Having soldiered under Captain John- son for 16 months, I regard him very highly. However, I feel that from his army rank and his present high posi- tion his words will carry considerable weight with many of the readers of his article, and I wish to say that the posi- tion ha has taken regarding the ‘4 Amer- ican Legion" is "ALL WRONG." I call my readers’ attention to the pre- amble to the constitution of the Amer- ican Legion. Those of you who have not seen it, get it and read it; it is not secret Does it savor of Wall street? It does not. How long could Wall street manipu- late 4,000,000 red-blooded he-men; many of them union men and living in every State in the Union? Not very long. The American Legion is most emphat- ically not a military organization. Capt. Johnson evidently has fears of its be- coming a sort of National Guard in dis- guise. Can a union man be loyal both to his union and the American Legion? Yes, the great majority of our union men are good, loyal American citizens, and that is all that is necessary; the small minority are the radicals, Bol- shevists, communists, eta, that are do- ing more to injure the unions than all other forces combined. The latter could not subscribe to the principles of the American Legion; neither do they sub- scribe to the principles of unionism nor to the basic principles of Americanism. The American Legion would see them on a fleet of Soviet arks. Does "Standard Oil Co." "Post," "Colo- rado Fuel & Iron Co. Post," etc., have a sinister meaning? Again most emphat- ically, No! Many bodies of ex-service men employed by large corporations have formed posts, membership being limited to employes of said corporations and have so identified their posts. It will. Indeed, be a hard world to live in when the mere mention of a corporation name will cause a union man to throw a fit. Is the Rogers bill appreciated by the ex-service men? Yes — what is more im- pressive than a military funeral, and what more fitting for the last rites of a comrade who served his country in time of need? It is a long step, and far- fetched, to the "military funerals,” of which Captain Johnson is so apprehen- sive. Anyone will admit that the aims and principles of the American Legion are of the very highest order; its only fight is the fight for 100 per cent American- ism. It is the duty of all ex-serrice men, then, to get Into it and make It a power for good, for it is their organic tion, and theirs only, to make of what they will. Unions have no use for the non- member who stays on the outside and throws stones, at the same time benefit- ing by what the organization obtains. Why, then, should the uniou man sit back and say, "Purge the American Legion" — and every ex-service man with a union card will be proud to "join up.” If there’s any "purging* to be done, let’s all be in on it. Boyd E. Weber Cert 2701, IMv. 61. Commander J. P- McDonna Post, American Legion, De- partment of Illinois. ARE RAILROAD WAGES RESPONS! BLE? Several articles have appeared in the various daily papers to the effect that the railroad employes are "getting rich” by their "high wages," and that they re- ceived almost everything that was asked for during Government control. It Is obvious that the authors of these articles have written from hearsay tad know positively nothing about the facto concerning wages paid railroad ployes. The minimum hourly rate of thus men is 48 cents, the maximum pooBtr 70 cents (this, of course, does not ** elude those whom the companies Digitized by VjOOQlC

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 605 “officials,” merely those whom the com- panies term “laborers,” regardless of their craft, be It engineer or telegra- pher. Now, compare these rates with, rates of labor in other crafts, for in- stance: Painters (in the City of Beth- lehem) receive 75 to 80 cents per hour; carpenters, 80 to 90 cents, and bricklay- ers in the vicinity of $1 per hour. So wherein Is the railroad man getting rich? Has not Government statisticians agreed that the purchasing power of a dollar has dwindled to 36 cents as com- pared with pre-war purchasing power? How, then, can the railroad man get rich? Labor has been charged with the cause of present high cost of living, yet woolen men claim that the cost of the wool in an ordinary suit of clothes is but approximately $6; nevertheless, this same suit retails for from $60 to $70; again, an ordinary felt hat that retails at $2 (it is said) costs the producer but 50 cents. Are these things caused by the railroad men’s “high wages?” Would it not be more human for those who are always ready to knock those who labor for their daily bread (due to distorted reports), to get at facts before they begin to condemn? H. Q. Ten Eyck. FOR A BETTER JOURNAL. Certificate 1386 is the originator of the “Change the News” movement which was begun in the. Telegrapher last summer. That this move found a ready response among the majority of corre- spondents we can plainly see from the marked improvement in the contribu- tions now appearing in the JOURNAL. Can it be that literary genius has sud- denly attached itself to our craft? NO! None of us is willing to admit that we haye ever been inferior to any other craft from an intellectual standpoint. In fact “good composition” is our stock in trade, for our vocation within itself tends to nuue us proficient in this re- spect. Then what is the answer? Simply this: Lack of initiative has been re- sponsible for the commonplace things that have monopolized our fraternal col- umns for years and our literary talent has lain dormant. . However, from the protests a number of the members are now voicing, I believe Certificate 1386 has been misunderstood. In his explana- tion in the February Telegrapher, he stated that it was not a move to abolish any part of the magazine, but specific- ally a move to “change the news,” which in my estimation should be very clear to us. For instance, in the March Telegra- pher I made note of the number of times our time-worn slogan, “NO CARD, ETC.,” appeared and found that it was used by 18 different correspondents. Do not get the impression, however, that I wish to criticise our slogan or those who use it. It is a mottq that will never die, and I trust we will continue to practice it. I mention this merely to illustrate that by using it repeatedly we lay ourselves liable to the accusation that we are simply filling up space. As to the Editor splitting 50-50 with us: This will be done and more, since it was never intended that any part of the magazine be abolished. The department assigned to “OUR CORRESPONDENTS,” however, will continue to grow with each publication. Since the creation of this department we are enjoying something worth while. Topics of general interest are being dis- cussed, something beneficial to the Order as a whole. We await the arrival of The Telegrapher with a new inter- est. It is an occasion for us to relax our minds from business care, and af- fords an opportunity to unbend and min- gle in cheerful recreation with our Brothers throughout the country. I am sure that we are all in need of a stimu- lant of this sort in order to clear away the cobwebs from our brains, to revive our social nature and to develop the finer sentiments and feeling of human- ity. Cert. 46, Drv. 179. Digitized by xjOOQlC

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606 The Railroad Telegrapher. ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS. W© have had many articles in our Telegraph eh relating to express com- missions and commercial telegraph com- mission. Too much cannot be said about these two subjects, but actions speak louder than words, so let’s all pull to- gether on these two serious matters and see if something cannot be done. At the present time our agents are receiving from fifteen per cent commis- sion down to no commission on express business and reports handled for the ex- press company, it all depending on what railroad you happen to work. As to the amount of commission you receive, this could easily be remedied by our Grand Officers, serving notive on the express company that we must have a working agreement with them, which will cover all roads and all station^. A very sim- ple matter, since the express companies are all under one head. As to commercial telegraph business, this matter is handled in the same man- ner, except that just a few are receiv- ing ten per cent commission on cash re- ceipts, and the majority receiving noth- ing on either cash receipts or the paid business at the other end. The reports of both of these companies are compli- cated and are a great deal of trouble to make out. We are held strictly responsi- ble for all moneys collected. This thing of chasing all over town to find some’ one to deliver a telegram to, takes up our valuable time. . Brothers, if you mean business on this, let’s see that our delegates and general chairman find out how we stand on these two hard-boiled propositions. Write them and tell them wnat you think about it, and that you demand ac- tion. They want to know where they stand before they do anything, and if they know we are all behind them they will take action at once. This is an op- portune time to bring this question up and settle it once and for all. If it comes to the worst, how many of you are willing to quit handling Western Union business and express until it is settled in a satisfactory manner. I be- lieve that I am safe in saying that the boys would come out 100 per cent strong and support this. Do not lay this aside nowr, and think. Somebody else will start the ball rolling, so it will not mat- ter if you don’t write your general chair- man. Get right down and do it. Cert. 842. PROPAGANDA. Propaganda, the chief method used by the Trusts in creating public sentiment against Labor Unions, collective bargain- ing, the right to strike, etc., is dissem- inated through the big newspapers and national magazines. Through these me- diums misleading statements, anti-union- ism, and pro big business matter reach the great mass of the newspaper and magazine reading public. And public opinion is made up, or at least influ- enced greatly, by what the public reads. Also an adverse public opinion is one thing that can not be bucked, success- fully. I am quoting below a few excerpts taken from an editorial of a widely read magazine. Similar matter has been ap- pearing in print for the past year: “With the exception of some poli- ticians and a minority of railroad em- ployes, few desire the continued opera- tion of our railroads by the Government The alleged ‘public be damned* Of thirty years ago was a de luxe service to what we have had the past twelve months. The .polite and painstaking employe of former years has for the most part ab- sorbed a spirit of general indifference into which the Government employe so easily drifts. The morale has not suf- fered to quite the same extent, thanks to long years of training, but that too, is on the down grade.*’ This needs no comment. Railroad workers and those familiar with the con- ditions know that for the most part It is untrue. But with that part of tie public who are not cognizant of tk® facts, such an article would prejudice Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 607 them against any movement that might be made for Government ownership. Al- though this question has been settled for the time being, there are other things that are not yet settled which concern us as much, or more, that are being misrepresented as much as this editor misrepresented facts in this par- ticular case. Aside from honest officials and a loyal membership, nothing can be of more aid to unions, and the principles repre- sented by unions, than a friendly feeling for them by the general public. In view of the fact that a large per cent of the public belongs to some organization, it would seem that such a feeling should already exist, and does to. some extent. But too many of those who do belong to some union are too often friendly only to their own particular craft. It is patent that Labor needs a press. A big periodical with national circula- tion, that would truthfully reflect tho views and aims of organized labor. But labor unions have the means In their individual membership, more po- tent than a press, for cultivating a friendly feeling for them by the public, and refuting unjust criticism by labor’s enemies. Every worker should bear in mind that he is the personal representa- tive of his organization and the cause of labor. And that no organization can be better than its component parts. I have not yet said just what I have wanted to say, although from the begin- ning to this, the end, I have wabbled about quite a bit, chasing a phantom thought, or, better, a ghost of a thought that died a-borning. Sometimes it would come quite near, and, while I fumbled about for words with which to hold it, it would slip away. And so it has been in every paragraph, even this. Cert. 2635, Drv. 32. FROM SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT T. M. PIERSON. In response to an article written by me, which appeared in the February number of The Telegrapher, I have been completely overwhelmed and swamped with letters from the member- ship in all parts of the country, Indi- cating beyond all question of doubt that a very large per cent of our membership are deeply interested and concerned re- garding the matter of legislation. At the time of writing the article referred to above, it was my opinion that I would be continued in legislative work long enough to enable me to work out a method of supplying all who seemed concerned in knowing who our friends are — in Congress — and supplying them with the result of votes cast and with copies of speeches made from time to time, both by our friends and our ene- mies, but, owing to the pressure and many calls made upon the President for the assistance of vice-presidents in con- nection with schedule negotiations, the President has found it necessary to call me Into that service and assign me to the handling of negotiations on the P. R. R. lines east, at Philadelphia, in which work I am now engaged. At the time of leaving Washington, February 26, to take up the assignment with the P. R. R. General Committee, more than one hundred letters had al- ready been received by me, and each mail since has brought many more, and with the P. R\ R. assignment, It will be absolutely Impossible for me to reply to many, if any, of the several hundred letters received from the membership re- questing that their names be placed on my list, and that the writers be supplied with any and all sorts of legislative in- formation that I might have for distribu- tion. I regret that this is the case, as I be- lieve it is of much importance that the several thousand members should be given all possible help in getting in line on the question of legislation. However, I can only suggest the next best. The Plumb Plan League, with head- quarters in the Machinists International Building, Massachusetts avenue and Ninth street, Washington, D. C., issues weekly the very best labor news it has ever been my pleasure to read. The Digitized by Google

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608 Thk Rajlroap Tklwjrai-hkk. name of the publication is “LABOR.” Labor is the only newspaper in the United States that Alls the need in the line of work which I had in hand at the time of writing the article appearing in the February number of The Railroad Telegrapher; the news is clean and free from any flavor" of partyism, and it is right off the bat each week, giving names of Congressmen and Senators who vote against the interests of labor, and not only quoting the speeches made, but commenting upon them, and in most every instance giving the reason why such speeches are made. The subscrip- tion for this valuable newspaper is but ONE DOLLAR per year, post paid, and I hope every member will immediately enclose an express money order for one dollar to Hon. Edward Keeting, to the address given above, requesting him to add your name to his subscription list, and ask him to send you a copy of the number containing the names of all members of both houses of Congress and how they voted on the railroad bill recently passed. If you will act promptly in this mat> ter you will secure the Information which you have asked me to furnish you, and much more, and in far better and more clearly detailed manner than I could possibly have furnished you. Get busy now and swamp the Editor of “iAbor” as you swamped me. I still have copies of speeches made by Senator La Follette, of Wisconsin, and Congressman Simms, of Tennessee, on file at Washington, and just as soon as I can get around to it I will be pleased to furnish them, as far as they will go, to those of you who have requested them. Remember, however, that wheels of Congress continue to grind, and other speeches are being daily ground out, all of which are commented upon in “Labor.” Again I regret my inability to comply with the request of each of you, and I thank you for your enormous response. MEMBERS BE GIVEN PREFERENCE. In looking over the Fraternal columns of The Telegrapher one reads in the notes of nearly every road something like the following, which is an excerpt from the April number: “We cannot understand why a man who has drawn from $100 to $200 back pay (which he never would have se- cured if it had not 1>een for the O. R. T.) can fail to get up to date at a cost of $7.00.” There are some who would not pay their dues and keep up to date if they received three times as much back money and the hard shelled non who. after being pleaded and argued with, and then tells you a lot of hard luck stories, is not going to join as long as he can get something for nothing. What we should do is have our working agree ments changed to give the benefits to the members only, who pay their dues and support every movement to better our conditions. I suggest the following changes: When vacancies or new posi- tions are bulletined, the oldest union applicant receive the appointment. If no union applicant, let the nans bid for the positions, using their seniority against themselves; also when there l* a reduction of force, nons assert their seniority against nons only. If these or similar changes were made in every agreement, it would be unnecessary to jar the delinquent or plead with the non, for they would see that they were al ways up to date, so they could have the full use of their seniority. This is what might be called a semi-closed shop. It would not interfere with the non re- ceiving union wages, but would give members preference in bidding on Jobs which they should have. I would like to hear the view** of other Brothers, and if favorable it should be called to the attention of President M anion for action. Let us start a move- ment to better the conditions of mem- bers only and let the non shift for him- self. Cert. 282. Drv. S3. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 609 ME8SAGES BY TELEPHONE. If I may be permitted to do so, 1 should like to say a few words through the columns of the Journal to those in- terested, with respect to the use of the tolephone for the movement of trains by others than men of our craft This Is a very serious question to many of as and should not be run over rough shod or treated too lightly. The “Oper- ator-Conductors* are. absolutely treating with utter disregard the efforts of both organizations to settle this question properly. On some railroads they have been requested in the most official man- ner; that is, the General Committee of Telegraphers have met the General Committee of Conductors and requested that they “Call the Operator” who is off duty and allow him to make the call in- stead of the conductor going to the phone and getting his own orders, yet they are refusing daily and hourly to grant this request, after their General Committee voted to a man that they would do it. How can • such men com- mand the respect of section hands on a railroad, let alone the respect of men of our type. They are robbing us ny the hour, and, in my opinion, would do worse if they got a half chance. Some few engineers have picked up the prac- tice around in spots, but they have only to be reminded of what they are doing and the practice is discontinued forth- with. I certainly wish it was possible for the poor broken-back Conductors to get “a half of joint of the engineers’ backbone.** On my Division I have complaints very, very often, claiming a call for orders known to have been copied by some conductor, and I always collect them. In a number of instances I have referred the matter to the Local Chair- man of the Conductors, and I have never received one word in reply, and from daily observations of their conduct ab- solutely no action has been taken. I have had occasion to refer several to the Chairman of the Engineers, and have received a prompt and courteous reply to each, accompanied by copy of his handling. Do you wonder that 1 wish there was some way to inject “a little Enginemen into our Conductormen.*’ I have tried continuously since our SL Louis Convention to improve the con- ditions on our Division, but the improve- ment is barely noticeable, and it is now time for the telegraphers to settle this question without the assistance of the conductors. We can do it, and I think the quicker the better, so lets go to it. Cert. 74. TIME FOR ACTION. When the Queen of Sheba heard in her native land of the riches, splendor and wisdom of Solomon, she came to see for herself. She went away declaring, “The half has not been told.'* Just so with the Western Union. We have not told it all yet. Last month my commercial business amounted to |142.44. I got $10.33 as commission. I am more favorably situ- ated than many others with reference to this question, as the greater part of the business is paid at this end of the line. 1 made $38.33 commission on express. It required more time to handle the com- mercial than the express. Have we adopted the commercial business as an orphan? Are we going to continue to donate our time and attention to them? Are they not able to pay for what they get? I have all kinds of trouble getting report blanks. Had to manufacture them for last month’s reports. Is the com- pany unable to supply them? I think it is time for us to negotiate our own contract with them. Why should we allow the railroads to make our contracts with them? Mark Twain said: “Everybody is al- ways talking about the weather, but no- body ever does anything about it.’* We talk and write about handling commer- cial business, but none of us have done anything yet. We don’t get anywhere. Talk is cheap. What we need is f g- gressive action. I hope our leaders will see the need for action and endeavor to apply the rem- Digitized by VjOOQle

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610 The Railroad Telegrapher. edy, which in my humble opinion is to secure for us 10 per cent on all business handled, regardless of whether we han- dle the cash or not. I see no reason why the commercial companies should be favored more than the express com panies. Now I feel better. Thank you. Cert. 3316. A SOLUTION. I have read with much interest the ar- ticles In the March Telegrapher “Commissions” and “More About Com- missions." Both writers did well, but they failed to finish what was on their minds. We are up against the “Com- mission" proposition. We do commercial work for nothing, and the business end of the bee is turned toward us if we don’t hit the ball. Kvery committee who has asked the railroad officials to consider negotiations on commercial business is turned down with the reply, “We have nothing to do with it and cannot consider your re- quests." The solution now is entirely in the hands of our leaders at St. Louis, or else it is a matter to be adjusted by a joint session of our General Chairmen. I agree that we are doing too much talk- ing and letting that do, but we all know we have a just claim for adjustment. What is the solution? The claim is, the railroad agents and operators are per- forming a burdensome amount of com- mercial work and not receiving pay com- mensurate with the service performed, and the railroad officials decline to ac- knowledge any right to negotiate with our committees for an adjustment. Inasmuch as we have elected our com- mittees to represent us for adjustments of our differences, it is up to them to accomplish this. As it does not seem possible to adjust it by each individual road, I say put the matter to St. Louis through our General Committees. I urge every member who reads this to join the campaign and write his General Chairman a letter, requesting him to use his efforts to bring about a call for a meeting that will get us results. Mr, General Chairman, what do you think? Cert. 159r Div. 172. THE DIFFERENCE. Victim and Cert. 812, Div. 7, in the April Telegrapher ask for help, and, no doubt, need it. I agree with them. There is something wrong with a great many station agencies. Take it from an operator-clerk who served six years as night operator and five years as second- trick operator-clerk. Would like to say that I worked more and harder in the five years as operator-clerk than I worked in the ten years as agent-oper a tor, and work was at agencies where help was needed badly and help was re- fused. We operator-clerks are not called agent-operators, but have the same work to do and same responsibilities as the agent-operator. If not, why are we bond ed? Why do we handle more freight than express, more U. S. mail, more billing, more reports to make and sign the agent-operator’s name to than he signs himself? In fact, more of every- thing but money. Why are we called operator-clerks when the agent-operator walks out at 2 p. m. and goes home and returns to work at 6 a. m. the next day? Why do we have to wear agent-operators caps in serving the public and working passenger trains? Why are agent-oper- ators being paid operator-clerks’ wages? This defense does not hit the agent- operator who does his wqrk, but it does hit the one who piles it up for the clerk- operator to do, and they are plentiful An operator-clerk at a station is under the direction of the agent-operator, ac cording to the rules of the railroad com pany, and, believe me, some of them certainly do direct. Cert. 1410, Div. 14. U. 8. MAIL. W. C. Harmon, in the March Telbb- rapher hits the nail on the head, “71” to him, let's cut the IT. S. mail business Digitized by A^OOQle

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The Uailhqad Telegrapher. 611 out and let the proper ones do the lug- ging of from two to six bags of mall from each train to and from the post- office. I think, as all other fair-minded Brothers do, that the Post-Office Depart- ment should handle the mail, as 1 feel that this part of our daily work is being donated to the Postmaster General and is helping him in the game there are so many out for these days. If none of you fellows have ever had the luck to get a U. S. Mail pouch left, just try it once and see if you can ever hear the last of it Let us impress on our leaders that we must have something done and stick to it, and we will see how quick the Post-Office Department will handle the matter, for they have not yet been in- formed as to just what is going to be done. I for one am ready to back our President in getting rid of this pest of a job. Let us hear from someone on each Division of every railroad in the United States as to how they feel on the subject. Cebt. 964. HAULING U. S. MAIL. Was just wondering If there wasn’t some way the agent-telegraphers could arrange to deliver our freight and ex- press, the same as we do U. S. mail, as there is not much of it after we get through with the parcel post, almost everything coming by parcel post at this time. I, just got through hauling three cart loads of it, and it ranged from one- half case of eggs to gang plows, and the beauty of it all was that the Postmaster and a number of farmers stood on the sidewalks and laughed and remarked that I needed a mule. I agree with them on that point. We should have an- other mule, and the mule should belong to the Order, and then all the long-eared tribe of mules in the pasture should ap- ply for membership also. When it comes to work in comparison between a mule and a man, I believe the mule would balk. That Is what I should do, but, of course, one man can't do much. It takes organized effort; that is why I am a member of the Order of Railroad Telegraphers, and that is the place to take your troubles to. I think it is time for us as human beings to get out of the mule’s harness and quit wading through the mud five or six times a day while the mule stands in the barn or is tied to a rack and waves his ears at us as we go by. I think our organization can help me be a man, and I can get away from the cart. There are some operators who say we should not do it. I know that all right, but they must re- metrfoer, even if they don’t have to do it, they owe us their help in eliminating this load. We can’t afford to buck our Brothers in any good cause. We are all in the Order to help in a united effort to unload some fit our burdens. Com- rades, we can eliminate the U. S. mail hauling, the mule job, if we go after it. Did you ever stop to think what we could get if we went after it solid? Let us do away with such an imposition. Cebt. 3691. MORE ABOUT HANDLING U. S. MAIL. I note in the March issue of The Telegrapher an item from a brother regarding the handling of U. S. mail, which I regarded as valuable to all. 1 am in line with this Brother. Let us get busy and do something now; don't wait; that will not mend the matter. Notify Government and railroad officials we will no longer handle U. S. mail between post- offices and depots. If the Government pays the railroad company to handle this mail let them make provisions ac- cordingly. Why sit still and be a slave to something unjust. I have for the past eight years been handling U. S. mail; have never received but one thing for my services, and that was a deduction voucher of $1.00 from the railroad company when some error or possibly unavoidable mistake in getting it on or off the mail car occurred. At present I am required to handle mail for two trains, about six to nine hundred pounds. No matter what may be the case this mail has to be to the post-office Digitized by VjOOQle

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612 The Railroad Telegrapher. Immediately after the departure of each train or the loving, neat, nice Postmas- ter will by first mall make complaint I think this a very unfair and unjust gift we receive. There is no use in say- ing we cannot be relieved of the han- dling, for we can, if we say we are not going to do so. I would like to see some- thing from others and your advice on the matter. Cebt. 341, Div. 62. THE STATION OPERATOR. Have read with much interest and some disgust some of the articles on the above subject in The Telegrapher. I have worked for a railroad eighteen years, and all but about two years of that as a station agent! Have always belonged to the O. R. T. and am now a member, my Cert, number is 1171. I mention this so that when I criticize my friends they will not jump at conclusions and say, “There’s that Loyal Employe again." The articles by Cert. 816 in the Feb- ruary, and Cert. 3693 in the March num- ber are good. A little of that stuff goes a long way with me. These kind of ' articles would encourage people to believe that what a union stood for was not better service for better pay, but better pay for poor service and less work. These are by no means union principles. Let me quote Mr. Gompers himself. He says: “I am In favor of putting more and not less responsibility upon the workers themselves. As an employer I should expect my employes to give me in return for their wages the fair value in work we had agreed upon. Nobody can reasonably expect to succeed with a cut-throat policy." Cert. No. 3693 in the March Issue states that when an operator accepts service with a railroad company he serves as an operator with duties per- taining to the handling of trains, and takes exception to having the agent asa what he knows about station work, give ium some of it to do. and to “put him next” as he calls it. I would think that an operator would be glad to learn station work and at the same time draw a salary for It, and I assure you, rather than put some of them next I would prefer to do the work myself. How many stations are there where there is wire work enough to do to keep a man working eight hours and do noth- ing but wire work? Not many. The company pays a man for eight hours work. Why not give them eight hours work Instead of just trying to kill eight hours. My friends, Certificates 816 and 3693 worry about their doing bo much work that they will be scabbing on some one by knocking two or three clerks out of a job. Don’t worry about that, boys, you will not hurt yourself on an eight-hour trick. I have a trick In my office right now that I think I could get the Superin- tendent to take off and put on a clerk for $87.50 In place of an operator at from $110.00 to $150.00 per. Which would you prefer, copy a couple of orders during your eight hours on duty and draw the larger amount, or let the agent copy the few orders and you draw the smaller amount as a clerk? Talk about the operator that runs the station and the agent putting in a couple of hours In the forenoon and a couple in the afternoon and ride an auto the balance of the time — show me that kind of an operator. I have never seen him yet, and I have had all kinds, some good men and some worthless. Then talk about the operator being stuck eight solid hours. Gee! what do you expect to be paid for? I am glad that Cert. No. 812 sent that article in to the April number. I have friends in other walks of lfie that started as railroad telegraphers and have climbed several rungs on the lad- der of success, but they were never afraid that they would do all the work there was, and thereby beat someone else out of a Job. I am strong for good pay, good hours, good working conditions, etc. That’s tb* reason I have always belonged to tfc* Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Rajijioad Telegrapher. 613 order, but I do believe we ought to be worthy of our hire. T. O. Engelmann. RE THE AGENT-OPERATOR. In the April issue of The Telegra- pher a letter from Cert. 812, Div. 7, appeared to me to carry the discus* sion on the duties of the “Agent-Oper- ator" to a rather vague conclusion, inas- much as the writer does not give actual facts and conditions as they relate to his particular, group on Canadian rail- roads; neither do his arguments har- monize with the policy of our repre- sentatives, who aim to decrease the num- ber of differentials in existent schedules rather than to create more. There is nothing in this class argument, like all other workers, as a body “we need more money," the economic situation prevail- ing demands this, regardless of whether the worker is an “Agent-Operator," jan- itor or what not. It is quite feasible to expect that a situation carrying more responsible du- ties will pay proportionately higher wages. As a matter of fact, they do, in every walk of life, but very few will concede that at a one-man station in a town of five or six hundred people earns a heavier wage than the average oper- ator. If there was only a difference of 10 cents in the salary of the two classes at this particular station under discus- sion, the operator certainly must board and room on the job. There is a fairly good dwelling with fuel and light supplied to every agent at a negligible cost, whereas the oper- ator is dumped off at a station to get accommodation as best he can, and at that to cost him nearly twice as much as the man at the station. If the aver- age agent would show a little more tol- erant spirit and a desire to get the new- ly-come operator comfortably placed in his town — practice a little more speed and less authority — the operator would in most cases measure up to require- ments. If our Brother whom I am addressing in the main finds such a state of in- equality after eight years as “agent- operator," It is a myBtery to me why he does not get active and “crash" in on one of those “operators" jobs. Cert. 4478, Div. 7. AGENT-OPERATOR. Referring to the different articles ap- pearing in The Railroad Telegrapher regarding the AgenbOperator, I would like to use the columns of The Teleg- rapher to say that I have been at one of these easy “OS" positions ten years. I have yet been unable to find these “NIL#" reports. I sincerely believe that we * are entitled to consideration in re- gard to Increase in salary. This title, Agent-Operator, given to one person is truly a mistake, and It should -be changed to “Chief Flunkie." There is nothing in the line of work that we don't do. If you can name a position anywhere that requires a man to be In as many different places at once as this one, I want to apply for the job! In order to qualify for the first part of your title, Agent, you must keep your clothes clean, meet the public, talk business, get business, sell tickets, understand your tariffs, talk express business today, talk freight business tomorrow, carry water on both shoulders, keep your reports up and on time. The last part of your title, Operator, is easy. I find that all that is required of a man holding this position is to watch the wires closely and copy train orders, railroad messages, keep your boards clear, and every once in a while you will be surprised with a "bite" on the W. U. wire, after copying a few code grain markets, you can “beat It" up the street a few blocks to deliver it (if the agent can get along without you), and on your return the answer to that message is waiting, and you are just In time to send it, as the agent just re- ceipted for it while you were out. Then as soon as the passenger train gets its orders, the agent and operator will rush out and help each other load and unload , baggage, express and U. S. mail. As soon as the local freight gets away the Digitized by Google

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H14 The Railroad Telegrapher. agent books up his way bills, while the operator expenses them, and writes up the ticket sales. After while the agent and helper goes out and puts some L. C. L. merchandise in the house for the night, while the operator and baggage- man checks the yard and loads a car or two of hogs for the “Red Ball/' If the agent can slip a little extra Work on the operator, and the operator can do the same to the baggageman, and the bag- gageman to the helper, and so on, with- out the agent finding it out, you are all right, but so far I have never Been it done (at a one-man station). Remember, boys, I am not sore on the job, but we really do have one round of pleasure sometimes at these “OS” stations, and our wages should be at least in accord- ance with our duties and responsibili- ties. Cebt. 160, Div. 163. WHY WRANGLE? A great many operators are writing letters to The Telegrapher complain- ing about treatment they receive at the hands of the Order as “Agent-Oper- ators” and “Clerk-Operators” and “Oper- ators.” Some of them seem to think that these three classes of men should be handled separately so far as senior- ity rights are concerned. If I have two or two hundred years' seniority on the line where I am em- ployed and bid on a schedule job, and some older man outbids me with his seniority, I cannot see, for the life of me, what difference it makes whether he is an “agent-operator” or just plain operator. One thing is certain, if I stay on the job as long as he I will have as much seniority. Ab long as he has an “up-to-date” I don’t care whether he ever saw a balance sheet or not. Another matter of much discussion is the Fraternal columns. Many claim that they are not worth the space they take up, and personally I am inclined to agree with them. But it seems to me, instead of using up half as much space writing letters on the subject, that it should be settled by a vote of operators by divisions. If any division votes that they do not want the Fraternal columns let them cut them out. Would this not be more effective than writing letters on the subject every month. Cebt. 213. ONE DEPENDENT ON THE OTHER. It is greatly Interesting and somewhat amusing to read the words of the wise ones In The Telegrapher, for each one seems to know just what will posi- tively cure the ills of the laborer. And one would think that this poor abused laborer was a weakling that had no friends. Every remedy proposed to build up and fatten this same poor weakling. Labor, is the slaying, or, at least, chain- ing of capital. All this reminds me of the days fol- lowing the Civil War, when the “Calam- ity Howlers” predicted every dire evil would befall the world, and especially the United States, unless the men who fought for and saved the Union to us should be put out of office and the howl- ers given the reins. It would be impos- sible for labor to prosper unless capital prospered. While it is true that too large a share of the profits of industry was taken by the investors, it Is also true that labor would have had very lit- tle and a great deal less if there had been no investor. Labor could not pro- duce alone. Capital could not produce alone. Capital could buy what there was and not work, while labor would starve if it could not work. All the great industries were founded by a laborer, who sawed wood and used his brain and did not howl calamity. Labor today is King and commands industry. The tendency seems to be now to use its power to force a realiza- tion cf this fact upon all investments. To me this seems as foolish as tt was to kill the golden-egg-laying goose. Better far to give all encouragement to indus- try and create a bigger market for labor %nd at the same time build up our or- ganizations for our protection and make Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 615 the membership ki them mean a guaran- tee of worth and merit. All labor unions should compel every member to be “all wool and a yard wide" or fire him. With such a guarantee in a membership card and absolute honesty by the order in liv- ing up to its contracts and firmness in insisting on honest and reasonable de- mands, industry would be glad to ex pand and know that business honesty in labor, combined with business hon- esty in the industry, would mean pros- perity for both and no danger of wreck- ing either. Let us stop calamity howling and believe that both sides need protec- tion, and that no real benefit can come to us by tearing down capital, nor biting the hand that feeds you, for the chance to work feeds us all. There is no real place for the calamity howler, but al- ways a place for the thinker. Cert. 1710. COOPERATE. In the March issue of The Teleg- rapher, Cert. 3693 says in his article that agents having capable operators often take advantage of such men. He says: “He will put an hour or two in the forenoon and an hour or tw*o in the afternoon and the remainder of the time is enjoying the pleasure of being at home with his family or speeding over the country in his automobile." I don’t think this could be applied to very many cases. About all the stations 1 ever saw there was enough work for the agent, and the capable operator, too. The agent generally puts in long hours in the forenoon and maybe longer in the afternoon, and whenever he goes for a joy ride it is very apt to be arter he has put in a hard day’s work. If all would Btick together much more could be accomplished than where one tries to knock the other. The relay oper- ator says he does more work than the trick operator; the trick operator says he does the agent’s work and should get more than other operators, and soon this causes ill feeling and doesn’t help mat- ters any. We all know that none are getting any too much, and 1 think if all would co- operate they could do more to better conditions for all. Cert. 1392. Digitized by L-ooQle

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FRATERNAL NOTICE * All Items fer this department must be in the hands of the Grand Secretary an I Treasurer on or before the 25th day of the month in order to insure their insertion in the following issue. Pittsburgh, Pa., Div. No. 52. Pittsburgh Lake Erie R. R. — The use of the phones by the trainmen has been taken up with the officers of their organizations by our secretary and they have asked for names or numbers, time and If possible copies of orders or messages, or both, handled. When you hear them pass over the wire, make notes and forward to R. W. Bees, Beaver Falls, Pa. Bro. Campbell, formerly at “DX” Pitts- burgh, out of the service for some time, still carries an up-to-date and takes a deep in- terest in this division. He is a regular visitor at our meetings, and gave us a very interesting talk at the one held on April 3d, in which he laid particular stress on the lack of interest displayed in the non-attend- ance. We have a large membership and the chairs should be filled at every session. Brother agents, come and get acquainted. The brother operators will all be glad to see you. Bro. Camp relieved Bro. Poultney, Neville, several days owing to the death of his mother, and Bro. Dick relieved Bro. Gaskill, Beaver Falls, on sick list. Bro. Tomsco, who recently met No. 25 be- tween “SD” Tower and New Castle and came out second best with $ broken nose and cuts about the head, is back on duty. Bro. Wingett, on a trip to France in search of a helpmate, was relieved on Wam- pum second by Bro. Weitz, and he by Bro. St. Clair, on first West Pittsburgh. Bro. Newton, who relieved Bro. Boyer, third Wampum, while he relieved Bro. Wingett, temporarily, has returned to third West Pittsburgh. Bro. H. R. Smurth waite, New Castle Junc- tion ticket agency, is now clerking in the P. R. R. superintendent’s office at New Castle. Sister Higgins has resumed on second Newell after an extended visit West; Bro. Ross and family spent a few days recently with the old folks ; Bros. Bees and Phillips have returned after 30 days off, and Bro. Demerest is back on College third. It is now Bros. Kelly, third New Castle Junction, and Bro. Blassey, who has been relieving Pryor there. Get in touch with Bra Kennedy, third Mahoningtown, for details in regard to our baseball team. Our items for the April issue reached St. Louis too late for that number, and have been included in this write-up. Brothers on the Tough and Mon divisions, please gather up the news in your localities and send to Bro. R. W. Bees, Beaver Falls, Pa., by the 18th of the month. Ckrt. 824. Ole*n, N. Y., Div. No. 78. Pittsburgh, Shawmut Northern R. R.— Chief Dispatcher Bro. G. E. Johnson. Smethport, Pa., bid in operator-dispatcher's job at St. Marys Junction, displacing Ray Wolf, who has decided to try baseball Old Cristy hasn’t much on him. W. B. Graham bid in Smethport, Pa., agency. Bro. J. C. Alden, who bid in second White- house, decided he could not handle the levers so he is out for the present. Bra J. I*. Grey- ber bid in first ”JH” Tower, succeeded by C. A. Stratton on second there. If any of the brothers have anything to report, send it to Secretary and Treasurer Hornell, New York, by the 21st of the month and we will try to have a writeup for you. Curt. 27. Chicago, III., Div. No. 91. C. & W. I. R. R. — We are now working on a plan to organ- ize all small Chicago terminal roads to as near 100 per cent membership as possible and then join with all the large roads In the Chicago district in a co-operative movement to establish a uniform rate of pay for Chi- cago Terminals doing the same class of work. Our committee, which has met with committees from the other small roads, will have another meeting soon to further perfect our plans along the line indicated. This movement is of vital interest to us all. So get busy, brothers, and line up the •‘non*.*' Don’t leave it all to our committee. First Vice-President Brown is with us on this movement It is now Bro. Bilitzki, third South Deer ing, making It solid. Keep up the good work “George,” and help us make the whole C * W. I solid Digitized by tjOOQle i

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 617 We are sorry to hear of the sudden death of Bra Motschman, third trick 24th street. I only accidentally heard of this several days afterwards. Don't forget, brothers, to promptly notify your chairman of any case of this kind or any other change that is made at your stations. Extra blockman Bro. Merchant Is filling in that vacancy. We are glad to hear Bro. Jas. Wasson back at 47th street after three weeks’ sick- ness. Bro. Grotts relieved Knippell, third trick leverman 47th street, several days on ac- count of sickness in his family. Bros. Pachale and McCay are doubling at Main Line Bridge during Bra Obarski’s ab- sence. “Bill" will soon be able to buy that ‘•flivver.” If the management refuses to consider our proposition for a wage increase presented by General Chairman Shafer, April 28th, It will then go before the newly created Wage Board. Cert. 57. Virginia, Mini?., Div. No. 127. Duluth , Missabe <fc Northern Ry. — Dispatcher Wilson, returning from Cali- fornia, puts all operators and dispatchers back hi their regular positions. Bro. Granley relieved Bro. Henry Fiola at Sharon on a trip to Cleveland, Chicago, Forbes, etc. Bros. Woodward, Brousseau, Jordan. Sauleen and Rutter were recent Duluth Sunday visitors. Rutter displaying our S. O. 8. signal, presume on account of having a “chick” on each arm. He has our sym- pathy. Sifiter Lowe has returned from her trip West and' Chief Telegrapher Clark from Keenan Interlocker, who was relieving her at Arcturus, is now relieving Bro. Lowe there, relieving Bro. Morse, agent Taconite, on a trip to Glendale, Arizona. Bra Keenan relieved Bro. Anderson at Steelton, who went to Missabe Junction un- til ore season opens. Bro. Llndrud, who has been relieving Bro. E. Jordan at Mitchell on a trip East, is now at Keenan Interlocker, reopened for the ore season. Bro. C. E. Rutter has returned to Sher- wood, relieved at Silicla by Bro. Jordan, re- lieved on Hull Junction third by the return of Bro. Brown. Bro. and Sister Graves have resumed there after a very pleasant winter trip to Los Angeles. We welcome them home, but regret to learn that they have re- signed and expect to move West or South for a permanent home. We wish them the best of luck. Life's sorrows : Death of Bro. J. F. Ken- ney's wife, and daughter of Bro. and Mrs. A. M. Maloney, of Alborn. Bro. Thomas is in a sanatorium at Minneapolis. Thanks to Bro. A. A. Jordan for his notes. They are a great help in making a write-up, and I wish all the brothers would hold up their end like he and Bro. Rosa Some of the items you send in may have to be left out by the editor in compliance with our obligation to save paper. However, you send them in. It helps me to work on the write-up, and let me have them not later than the 15th of each month, otherwise they will be too late for the following publica- tion, as I must arrange and have them in the hands of the editor by the 25th of each month, and as much earlier as possible. It is necessary for me to mail them not later than the 20th. Ore season in full swing. Will make it a little more difficult for us to have a large attendance at our future meetings, so let every member who can attend do so. as it holds a better spirit at our meetings when the membership is well represented. L. J. Brousseau, Cert. 52. Grand Trunk Pacific Ry., Div. 1. Winnipey to Watrous Division — Bro. Thompson, first Melville, has re- turned with his family to London, Ont. General Chairman Triplett spent part of last month (April) in Edmonton with the general committee, which began its sessions at the McLaren hQtel, in Winnipeg, April 22nd, to negotiate for increases. We wish Chairman Triplett and his side partners, Bros. Dodds and McCullough, the pleasure of getting everything they ask for. As these notes are being mailed Sunday, April 18th, we cannot report on the meeting to be held in Melville today, but at 4 a. m. it is going strong, and the contingent from the south has arrived as usual. Sorry we cannot conform to the hint of some of the Journal correspondents to turn our copy in as camouflaged essays. We couldn't write such things and if we did they wouldn’t be half as interesting to the members of the organization in this corner of the world as to read of the members who have married or moved, although it seems there isn’t much doing in the first named item, and too much in the latter. Also as your correspondent Is a sister and the only one on the division to present a feminine viewpoint on any of the current topics of interest is too risky altogether, therefor© we must use discretion and avoid starting argu- ments. Recently heard someone at Regina (early in the morning, too), with a real live “grouch” on because nobody had said any- thing about the “Regina branch" in the Journal for ages. If he had used that energy to send me some notes I might have been able to write something about that part of the division, but as it Is I don’t know what’s going on there. However, Bro. Hughes and Digitized by Google

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618 The Railroad Telegrapher a lot more of our own old-timers went over there lately and we may hear from him shortly unless he is Retting too homesick for Melville again. Bro. Atherton, Regina branch, has gone to McKomes, Bro. Pounder to Atwater, and Bro. Raine, a returned soldier, to Spy Hill, nights ; Bro. Kerwin, succeeded on Watrous first by Bro. Wilfong from Torkton goes to first ; Bro. Malone, from "the Soo," to second, and Bro. MacDonald, from C. N.. to third Melville, leaving Bro. White on sec- ond and Bro. Johnson on third Yorkton. Bro. Briggs goes to Goodeve, vice Bro. Bedford to Restock agency, vice Bro. Bil- lings to Edgeley agency, Regina branch ; Bro. Atkinson, from "\VN,” to Pembina sec- ond, vice Bro. De Juarez to Lestock, nights, vice Bro. McMinn, resigned an(j gone home to Fort Frances.. We are all sorry to lose him. Bro. Barnes is now in "V" dispatcher’s office, Bro. Jim Duncan at Elie, and Bro. Crosby at Othon, vice Bro. Palmer. Bro. Thomas from the Regina branch bid in Pope, vice Bro. Livingstone. To all the new brothers on the division, and many came to us during the past month, we extend the glad hand of welcome, espe- cially, because we are still a hundred per cent division ; never has a non come near us. "Some division." Cert. 2773. “Big Four” R. R.f Div. 3. C. V. D. Division — It now looks as if the working people are going to use their brains at the fall elec- tions. In Kansas, regardless of the fact that slavery is forbidden in. the United States, a law is in effect that forbids men to quit their Jobs. But up In North Dakota the farmers and workers went together on a non-partisan ticket and cleaned out the machine politicians. State-owned banks lending money on reasonable interest, state- owned newspapers, grain elevators and per- haps later on state-owned coal mines and railroads will guarantee the people a square «leal. The farmers and workers elsewhere seem to be getting the same fever. The Minnesota farmers agreed with union labor upon a complete non-partisan ticket, and the prospect of success is exceedingly bright. There is just as much need for organiza- tion along political lines as there is and has been for organization along industrial lines. Watch the candidates. Don’t vote for clothes, vote for the man. Drv. Cor. P. J E. Division — Business has been good in "DI" since an extra East put a bunch in Sugar Creek, taking the bridge with them. Bros. Brown and Collins, second and third Waynetown, and Redmon, Tile siding nights went to the office opened there, and their former tricks were closed owing to the shortage of oper- ators. Bro. Chaifant, from first, bid in second, and Bro. Spearman, third Arcanum; Bros. Hartman, Myers, Brown and Simmerm&n bid in ^Shirley. Mansfield, Brownsburg and Bloomington thirds, respectively, latter re- lieved on Urbana yard first by Parker and Yates on second there (gone switching since the switchmen^? strike), relieved by Sister Neal. Bro. Rees is back home again on Leroy second. Boys, if you desire a write-up send- roe some notes. Thanks to Bros. Martin, Bloom- ington. and Cartmill, "DI," for their items. Cbrt. 81 «. St. Louis Division, Joint Track District— We extend our sympathy to Bro. John Stadler, owing to his sister’s death in Vir- ginia with influenza. Funeral at Alton. Bro. J. E. Boggs desires to thank his fel- low workers on the West End of the St Louis division and the office force at Granite City for the beautiful floral offering sent as a mute token of their sympathy in his bereavement owing to the death of his wife Cbrt. 1274, "KS." C., St. P.f M. & O. Ry., Div. 4. Nebraska Division — Taking into consideration the weather, the meeting held at Emerson, Biarch 28, was a great success, at which there was more enthusiasm displayed than any the writer can recall. The worthy brothers who braved the Wi- zard of that date, showing that they have the interests of the Order at heart, were: General Chairman Liddane, Local Chairman Coyle. Assistant Local Chairman Weygandt Bros. Thomas, Owens, Mathews. Barge. Davidson, Knudson, Haselden and ColUnson. After Bro. Weygandt was selected chairman and Bro. Mathews secretary, Bro. Liddane proceeded to enlighten us as to the progress made at Washington relative to increased pay and explained to our satisfaction why the pooling of the financial benefits accruing to Division 4 under Interpretation No. I was to our best interests. The meeting was further enlivened by conscientious talks from Bros. Knudson. Collinson. Haselden and Local Cbalnsan Coyle, with the result that each member present felt It a bounden duty to put forth a stronger effort to keep Nebraska division solid. Anyone can observe the difference in work- ing conditions under a one hundred per cent membership from what they were under a thirty or forty per cent. We obtained two schedules in about twelve months prior to the Government assuming control, ajid upon these wages General Or- der No. 27 was based. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 619 If these schedules had not been secured at that time our increase under that Gen- eral Order No. 27 would have been smaller. As we would not have obtained those two schedules heretofore noted with a ragged, scattered forty per cent membership, there- fore we must increase the armor of our or- ganisation by making every available man a member. A man should take & keen sense of pride in the organisation that protects his par- ticular craft, the means of which is the source of his livelihood and that of his fam- ily. One enjoys seeing another brother wear an O. R. T. button, but it is more , gratify- ing, by far, to observe a brother dis- tinguished by the good works he does in behalf of the Order, and thus wear the but- ton that cannot be lost, nor ever be mis- placed. Bro. Peterson. Oakland agency, has been promoted to traveling freight agent with territory out of Omaha. We are glad to see this merited recognition of Bro. Peter- son's ability and faithful service, and hasten to extend congratulations and best wishes for his success. Bro. P. M. ^hearer of Emerson has been taking treatment at Excelsion Springs, Mo., to recuperate after, being in the hospital for the removal of his tonsils. Bro. Pranger, Wakefield agency, was re- lieved by Bro. Cotten when called to Iowa recently because of the death of his father. Bro. Coffyn recently relieved Bro. Craft, Nacora agency, who, finding single life too irksome, sought himself a spouse, thus terminating his week-end trips to Emerson, likewise an occasional early morning walk back to Nacora, when bad weather made automobiling out of the question. The mem- bers extend to Bro. Craft and wife many wishes for future success and happiness. Ceht. 305. Nebraska Division Notes — Cobum depot went up in flames Saturday, March 27th. Bro. Colllnson, first Hubbard, succeeded in getting there, cutting through the wires during the fire. Bro. Wood saved all the records and is now located in a box car with a complete new outfit of instru- ments and block phones. Business is picking up, offices being opened nearly every week. Bro. R. Wood opened Tekamah third, April 2nd. South Cut, open from 9 p. m. until 6 a. m., pays 54 cents an hour. Bro. J. Shearer, on account of sickness, was relieved a few days on First street first by his brother, Bro. A. Shearer, and he by Bro. Babcock on second there. Bro. Buck- ley, Hubbard second, also sick three days, was relieved by Bros. Monson and Baker. Local Chairman Coyle visited Bro. Ten- ney and others in St Paul recently. Cert. 688. Northern Division — General Chairman Liddane called on Local Chairman Mitchell at Superior on April first, where business of interest to the Northern Division was gone over. Bro. Geo. Smith, who recently bid in Park Falls agency, was called away on ac- count of sickness in the family, Mr. Judge remaining until hit? return. Bro. Geo. Welch is relieving Dispatcher Bro. F. D. Sinclair, Spooner, while visiting East Bro. A. W. Jann relieved Bro. J. L. Filby, Duluth, days, -while the latter was taking the 32nd Masonic degree. Bro. A. W. Cook, South Range, was off a few days recently. Bros. Mitchell and Brodt attended the meeting of the affiliated brotherhoods in Senator LaFollette's office on March 27th, when the program for state primaries were arranged. Two weeks later the LaFollette delegates won in every district carrying the state by more than 76,000. Senator La- Follette stood for labor on the final vote on the Esch-Cummins bill conference report. Bro. Geo. Welch, recently promoted to train dispatcher, and bride. Miss Florence Mitchell, will be at home at Spooner after June 1st. Mrs. Welch, sister of Local Chair- man Mitchell, was formerly superintendent of nurses in the Dakota Deaconess Hospi- tal at Brookings, S. D. The telegraphers of Division No. 4 join with the writer in wishing them all the good things in life to come and may their married life be one of happiness and prosperity. The few delinquents on this division are reminded that they only have about a month to take care of their dues and avoid being dropped from the membership rolls. We hope to close the current term with the same splendid membership we have been showing the past two years, the greatest of any divi- sion on the road. Brothers, let’s all do our duty and preserve what we have attained. We owe it not only to ourselves but to those dependent upon us for support to pay our dues and help to keep our 100 per cent mem- bership up to the present high standard. Bro. Clark, agent Trego, has sold his farm and invested in and been chosen secretary of the Trego Auto Co. We all wish him success. Bro. R. P. Stockman, third Trego, Is on an extended leave, Bro. Hain relieving. The manner in which “temporary” posi- tions on this division have been bulletined for, eight or ten years has created consider- able dissatisfaction. Your local chairman simply follows the custom of his predeces- sors. which it develops was oil wrong. We have been assured that this will be handled properly in future. No one sent me any notes. Some of this may be misleading as It was all gathered Digitized by Google

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620 The RxiutoAD Telegrapher. from rumors without any1 confirmation. Kick in with some news. “X," Cert. 330. General Telegraph Office , 8t. Paul , Minn. — Sister M. A. Johnson drew ninth tem- porarily. If this position is continued it will be shown as a permanent one next bulletin, June 6th. The “pool,” which became effective April 1st, has worked out fine in “A” office, and while I hear some complaints from some of the road men I am sure that when they have given it careful thought they will see the justice of it. I am not boosting it be- cause I gained by it; on the contrary, I had to give up and was glad to do so. The first dance given by the Twin City Telegraphers' Club. April 7th, was a great success. About 150 couples attended and all had a fine time, as ticket to the dance also included refreshments. Undoubtedly* tney will give more dances and brothers who live close to the Twin Cities should bring their wives or sweethearts, enjoy themselves and get acquainted. An overall club has been started in the general offices and the telegraph is 100 per cent. Bro. Bagan got the jump on us as he came to work in overalls about a week before we started our overall club. Bro. Adams went to Eau Claire recently and submitted to a transfusion of blood to his father, who is quite sick at the hospital there. “N,” Cert. 260. Eastern Division — Every man should now be on the job and show the company that union men are the best to have on the road. Bro. Tracy was elected to represent the telegraphers at the safety first meetings Bro. Judd and Bro. Peterson attended the recent meeting at Eau Claire. Bro. Coffin, agent Chili, brought his little boy to the hospital there recently to be treated for after effects of pneumonia. He is improving nicely. Bro. Adams from “A” office called on ye scribe for a few minutes recently while wait- ing for No. 17, having been visiting his father, who is ill at Sacred Heart Hospital, Eau Claire. Bro. Davis, Hudson Shops, has resumed work after a month’s illness. Bro. Tronstad, second Minneapolis, com- mences work now at 6 p. m. instead of 7 p. m. A special was run as second No. 8, April 12, carrying the Rotary clubs from St. Paul, Minneapolis and Fargo enroute from Minne- apolis to Wausau, returning April 15th. Agreement has been reached by the gen- eral committee and the management that vacancies of 60 days or more shall be filled by the oldest telegrapher where such vacancy occurs, his position being bulletined temporary until return of regular man. Bro. Peterson relieved Gramenz on third Eau Claire several days recently, who filled in at the dispatcher's office while Chief Fuhrman was having an operation performed on his nose. Later Bro. Peterson relieved Bro. Krogstad at Northline and Bra Bur- ger a few days ; latter on a trip to St Paul and Menomenee, visiting friends. It is now Bro. Cosgrove, second Altoona. Bro. O'Shaughnessy was at his father’s bedside in St Joseph's Hospital, St Pwil. a few days, latter having undergone a surgi- cal operation, from which he is recovering splendidly. He was relieved by Miller, a new man, and D. J. McNair, on third Eau Claire River Bridge. Correct your seniority list to read: 102, O. F. Peterson; 103, H. M. Rumpff; 104. E. H. Wry; 105, B. L. Tollard; 106. J. E. Schwartz; 107, C. H. Elliott; 108, a M. Schmidt; 109; M. E. Nelson; 110, L. A Clements ; erase G. H. Girling, No. 11, de- ceased. Our sympathy is extended to Yard Fore- man Coyle of Hudson, whose wife died re- cently after less than a year of happy mar- ried life, leaving Frank a father and a widower. The railroad boys contributed over |50 for floral offerings, showing the high esteem in which the couple was held. Bro. E. B. Jacobson, River Falls, has re- turned to St. Joseph’s Hospital, St Paul, to recuperate after his attack of “flu” and pneumonia and prepare for an operation to relieve him of a large heart Golttre. We all hope for his speedy recovery. Brothers, there are still & few nous on this division. Ask your local chairman where they are located and keep after them until you land them. “N,“ Cert 128. Kansas City Southern Ry., Dlv. 5. Bro. White, Blanchard, and family on sick list recently, Bro. E. T. Brazsell relieving. Bro. Gibson, formerly on second Beau- mont, now with the Texas Company at Port Neches, was recently in Beaumont giving the New Orleans baseball team “the once over." Local Chairman McDonough, first Beau- mont, attended a meeting of all local chair- man in Texarkana, Sunday, April 11th. re- lieved by Chief Clerk Parks. Bro. Andreson, after bidding in second Beaumont, found rents so high that he bought a home, dollar down and dollar a week. A. C. Hartman, now with St. L., B. & M- at Stion, Texas, relieved at Ruliff nights by C. W. Carr, a new man. Bro. C. P. Lowe, formerly ticket agent at Beaumont, with the consolidated ticket office at New Orleans the past three yean, was checked in as city ticket agent. Gulf Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 621 Coast Lines & K. C. S. Charley is carrying two cards now. Bro. F. A. Morrison, agent at Beaumont since return of the roads to private control, has resigned to accept a better position with a commercial concern at Lake Charles. He leaves with the best of wishes of all the officials and employes. T. L. Lowery, former member of Division 53, now agent at Chaison, promises to line up shortly. Traveling auditors, Bros. J. F. Ector and R. S. Palmer, will send me any news they can pick up. If some of you brothers will also help we can have a write-up regularly. Send in your notes early. E. E. Wade, Cert 722. Union Pacific R. R.f Div. 6. Kansas Division — The Leavenworth Western Branch was completely blocked with snow during the early part of April. All cuts full and buck- ing snow was the main occupation for sev- eral days. Bro. H. Heynon has returned from Flor- ida, where he spent the winter looking after his orange grove. Bro. Hook going back to first and Bro. Collins to third Manhattan. Bro. L. E. Hill was recently married in Kansas City. L. E. Shull at Emmett Is our latest re- cruit- Bro. Lenander went to Minneapolis pend- ing the arrival of Bro. Piper. Bro. Wm. Stuart, Wahsatch, Utah, traded positions with Bro. R. O. Green, second Emmett. Bro. Foster, agent Emmett, back after five weeks spent up North. Bro. Martin is bidding out of Lillis, no place to live, and Bro. Stuart cannot move his family to Emmett for the Bame reason. Embargo on Kansas City shipments dur- ing the switchmen’s strike filled all stations on Topeka branch with cars. Rotary snow plow was derailed two miles west of Menoken, taking two days to clear and repair track. Bro. Late, who relieved Bro. Lonergan at Vining temporarily, also relieved Bro. Cant- well a few days. Eastern District Relief Agent Bro. An- derson relieved Bro. Bramlett at Miltonvale a few days while he was sick. Sister Doering. Topeka first, bid in the ticket agency there. Thanks to the boys who remembered me with notes this time. Some more of you fellows please mail me some about the 15th of each month to Beverly, Kansas. Only a few nons left on Kansas and Cen- tral divisions. Will check them up and give list to anyone who is willing to do a little missionary work. R. F. Dewhirst, Cert. 333. Colorado Division — Bro. Jack Hannan, agent Watkins, re- cently brought his wife to Denver hospital to undergo an operation. We hope for hor speedy recovery. Bro. H. B. Woods, operator Ogallah, has just passed through an operation in the hos- pital and returned to work. Bro. Bradford has resigned to take up other work elsewhere. Bro. KImsey is with the G. W. Railway at Milliken, Colo. Bro. Ley, agent Sharon Springs, visited in Denver recently. Bro. Childress, from the Hock Island, is in Denver U. D. extra. On account of Government restriction on the size of the journal, we are unable to give the assignments. W. C. Etheridge. Cert. 962. Wyoming Division — Ten men were sent from Omaha, in charge of Bro. F. J. Schryver, to “NO” North Platte during the recent wire trouble between those points to handle the business to Portland, Salt Lake and Ogden, which was mailed from Omaha and intermediate points to North Platte, giving “NO” the ap- pearance of a real telegraph office during the two weeks’ stay of the contingent con- sisting of Bros. Brown, Hamel, Cochran and Clifton and Messrs. Reynolds, Reeder, Lima, Gardner and Norgent. Bro. Link, North Platte, has accepted a position as dispatcher on the Illinois Central at Mattoon, 111. Bro. L. H. Olson, manager “NO” North Platte, is being relieved by Bro. Pyle, and he by Bro. Brown from Omaha general office. Bro. Burton, “NY” North Platte, was re- lieved ten days by Bro. Corcoran. Bro. Becker, first “NY” North Platte, is using his spare time diligently at the A. T. & T. test office learning to be a wire chief. Bro. Donnelly, first O'Fallons, laid up with the smallpox, is being relieved by Bro. Patterson. We hope for his speedy recovery and few scars on his manly countenance. Bro. Cary, the oldest agent on the division, has been relieved as agent Lisco on account of asking for helper, or relief, relief being furnished by Bro. Jenkins going there pend- ing bulletin on the return of Bro. Burnham from Hot Springs, Ark., to Melbeta agency. Bro. Neidigh is relieving Bro. Bagby, agent Big Springs, sixty days. Let’s get after the few nons left on the division and make is solid. Have no notes from the West End this month. T. D. Ptlk, Cert. 43. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. i)'22 Western Division — Bro. S. E. Cole, Mtlliken, Colo., with seniority dating Sept. 11, 1918, assigned second Dent, Colorado Division, would like to trade with someone on this division. Bro. Kirkman has returned from the' South and resumed at Gateway. Bro. Wheadon, Morgan, is enjoying a trip through California. Bro. Shotliff, agent Devils Slide, bid in Green River agency, and Bro. G. S. Ridge new telegraph position at Park City ; agent- telegrapher, Henefer, is also a newly created position ; Bro. Pierce bid In third Rock Springs ; Bro. Campbell, second Granger, and Bro. Whitney, third Granger, bid in First Church Buttes. The local chairman would appreciate it very much if the members would inform him as soon as a new telegrapher shows up at their station, whether “up-to-date” or “non,” enabling him to transfer him to Division 6, or furnish application blanks. If new men are unable to produce up-to-date cards, in- form them in a polite way to line up. Agents Donaldson. Uintah ; Brown, Rock Springs ; Ax, at Hay, and Operator Pack are still nons. Keep after them. H. D. Porter, Evanston, Wyo. Canadian Pacific Ry.f Div. 7. London Division — Our regular April meeting w?as held in London, April 19th, with the following brothers present : Local Chairman Arscott, Thomas, Miller, McLeod, Smith, Wallace Wiggins, John Shaw, Davison, Vaughan, Moore, A. L. Baker, R. E. Shaw, Dayton, Tamblyn, Hampel, White, R. Bradley, T. Pitter, G. Bradley, Murray, Cockwell, Cooper, Cavanaugh and Vansickle. Much interesting discussion took place of which space would not permit to enlarge upon here. Would advise those brothers who are at all interested in what takes place at our regular meetings to try and get to them as often as possible. The more that attend the more there generally is of interest un- der discussion. While our schedule committee is in ses- sion, the meetings are alwrays well attended, but any wide awake brother should be pres- ent any other time to see that things are being done as they should be. If there is only a handful present much good discussion is often lost. Try and get to the meetings, boys. You will be surprised how interest- ing they can be made if you will only put forth a little more effort to attend. No news* has been received recently, so of course none could be printed. If you desire a W’rlte-up each month it is your duty to supply such items as come before you. ts that is the only manner in which your (I chairman can secure them, and any received will be as cheerfully seat to the editor for the next issue. We were all sorry to hear of Supt. Wil- liams being transferred, and we wish him success in his new appointment. Mr. Mc- Killop, our new* superintendent, comes well recommended, and we sincerely hope that future acquaintance with him will bear out our impression upon first meeting. “Has anyone here seen Scottie?” was th? daily query around London Yard, when Bro A. I). Scott suddenly disappeared, causing his pal to work long hours hoping for hb return. After waiting in vain 36 hours the latter called the chief dispatcher to see w’hat chances there were to get relieved for a meal. Much to the surprise of every on* “Scottie” finally returned to work, when we learned for the first time of his serious ill* ness in one of the London hospitals. We are all glad of his return. Bro. G. W. Snell, agent McGaw', has re- signed, succeeded by Bro. Coutts. first Goderich. Russ can grow’ chickens there to his heart’s content. Bro. Murdock, relieving Bro. Smitherman at Caradoc, says it’s a fine towrn, but the “No Smoking” by-la w’s make it rather tough. Bro. Holman relieved Bro. Eastman, agent Innerkip, a few days. Bro. C. E. Purcell, first Windsor Yard, off some time, has .some idea of the theatri- cal business. He says there must be good money in it. It sounds like old times to hear Biv Pruner back on the West End fone. Bro. R. E. Taylor acting as night chief dispatcher until a permanent appointment is made. We hope he will be given the position as he has all the qualifications. Remember regular monthly meetings are always on the third Saturday night and the excuse that you did not get the “23” wDl not be accepted. We all look forward to some good meetings during the coming months. “73’s,” L. B. A Montreal Terminals — Bro. Ducharme Is now on second Adiron- dack Junction. Bro. Ducharme is a F&ra* ham boy. Bro. Landry went to his home a few diys We are glad to hear his wife is better. We hope Bro. Papillon’s wife will soon be home and her health completely restored. Chief Fortier is now father of a girl, *nd Bro, D’Amour, Highlands, is father of a boy. also Bro. Geo. Charbonneau. Bro. Garrow' of Highlands makes quite a few trips weekly to the city. Bro. Legendre of Highlands is quite in- terested in the National Union. Bro. Perreault. South Junction, and For- mer. St. Luc Junction, off a few days. wi«t to the bush to eat some good “tire." Digitized by Google B,

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 622 Our two Bros. Beaulieu are back at Bal- lantyne after being off some time with in- fluenza. Mr. Kenney, now relieving at South Junc- tion. we understand will soon be a brother. That “non” at Ballantyne, with a few scattered old-timers still hanging back, should be lined up. Get busy, brothers. Our general committee now at Montreal has started negotiations with the company, and judging from a conversation the writer had with Bro. Potvin I believe the high cost of living will soon be lightened as far as we are concerned. Special attention will be paid to equalizing wages for all O. R. T. positions in the terminals, including the clerks. We have three new brother clerks at Adirondack Junction, Bros. Charland, Renaud and Gendron. Welcome. Bro. Jos. Charbonneau, supervisor, still in the poultry' business, made a pile of money while eggs were dear last winter. Bro. iLeclair of Outremont, supervisor, had the misfortune recently to lose his father. He has our sympathy in his be- reavement. Cert. 3511. Saskatoon Division — Local Chairman McOrmond left on March 31st for Montreal to serve on the schedule committee revising the schedule. Bros. O’Brien and Francis are acting for him dur- ing his absence. The hearty response to the call for the as- sistance of Mrs. E. Chambers, wife of our departed brother of Metiskow, was very gratifying. Agents should discontinue doing janitor duty at their stations for such a paltry sum that an outsider would not consider it. The proper authorities must be enlightened to the need for a decent remuneration for such work. Bro. Stewart, of Blucher, who met with a serious accident while alighting from a train at his station, is in the City Hospital at Saskatoon. We are pleased to learn he is doing nicely. We regret to learn of the illness of Bro. Egan (Elstow) and trust he will soon be around again. President Beatty has approved issuing employes with ten years’ service an annual pass over the general superintendent’s dis- trict, and employes with twenty years or over an annual over the western or eastern lines, on whichever they are employed. This is the thin edge of the wedge, boys, something better is sure to follow. Y. D. Kaumeyer, Cert. 2800, Klnley, Sask. Esquimau and Nanaimo Notes — The meeting held in Chemaimes Satur- day. March 6th, was attended by Local Chairman Lang and Bros. Griffin, Parker, O'Regan, Fawcett, McColl, G. W. Anglim, E. C. Firth, Heath, Atwood, Robertson, Rob- inson and C. Firth, the three latter being new members. There was no old business to discuss, but progress was made on new business, after which refreshments were served. Applications have been received from sev- eral assistants, shedmen and clerks. We are steadily increasing in members and should soon have at least thirty-five members to our meetings. It is very hard for the North End men to get in, but we should have more South End men. Bro. Trenouth goes to Qualicum Beach, a new position, succeeded by Bro. Dey from Wellington at Port Albeni ; Bro. Bucking- ham takes Wellington agency, relieved nights there by Bro. White, a new man ; Bro. Allard goes to Courtenay agency, suc- ceeded by Bro. Parker, spare at Port Al- beni, as operator. Bro. Moffatt, back from six months’ leave, relieved Bro. O’Regan at Duncan days for a month. Bro. J. D. Fraser has been appointed chief dispatcher at Victoria, and Bro. Nickerson to third trick there. Someone line up that new man on the work train, if he is not up-to-date. Cert. 2947. New York Central R. R.r Div. 8. Electric Division — It is with deep sorrow and regret that we record the untimely death of our late friends and worthy brothers, James G. Oatis and William J. McKeon, who were called to the Great Beyond early In April. Held in high esteem by all, they will be greatly missed for they were true, loyal friends and brothers, always ready and will- ing with helping hands in any capacity. Their memory will always live with us until we, too, are called to that undiscovered country from which no one returns. The funeral services, which were beautiful, were attended by a delegation of the members. Bros. Williams, Johnson, Eidt, McGrath, W. Cummins and R. J. O’Brien, acting as pall- bearers. Our April morning meeting was a real old-timer without refreshments, and it was very gratifying to see so many old-timers out with their opinions and arguments. Glory be and come again, brothers. It puts the punch in the meetings that has been lacking since January 16th. Bros. Baker. Hoop and Stickel have not been to a meet- ing since Washington crossed the Hudson, but they were at this meeting and I am sure we all profited by their appearance. Our new schedule was thoroughly digested at this meeting and all were well pleased. The n*w features that have been added for Digitized by C-ooQie

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624 The Railroad Telegrapher. our benefit are very important. Live up to the letter of this schedule and the book of rules, sisters and brothers, and don't for- get that O. R. T. members are the best in the business, then we will have model divi- sions for all others to follow, and why not? Don’t we work for America’s greatest rail- road and aren’t we considered the best in the world. Daylight saving and eastern standard times are somewhat conflicting these days and everyone seems to be having their share of the same. Some are saving and some are losing. All in all, it looks like it will not last much longer for the bottom is slowly falling out. A majority of the brothers do not care which time we have if those country-wide 183 rates will only get shimmied down to 22 before they go to the poor house. How many sisters and brothers need to be told to join the new overalls and old clothes clubs? If I am not mistaken I’ll bet we have been followers of these clubs* ideas for a long, long time. Don’t forget the labor and wet planks in the fall election platforms, sisters and brothers, and don’t throw away your votes, for it is the beBt man with the above planks that Is going to sit in the big chair next term. Notice I mention sisters above. At this writing their voting rights have not been granted, but by the time they need them full suffrage rights will have been granted and then watch results. Bro. Gambee appointed in and outside sen- tinel, vice Bro. Oatis, deceased. Bro. Hackett moved to his farm in Mont- rose recently, thereby putting one over on the rent gougers in the city. Bro. Hagar moved into a high class apart- ment without fear of gougers. Bro. M. A. Smith resigned recently to take up other duties more suitable, and Bro. Hodgeboom, fearing Mark put one over on him, did likewise. Bro. Simonson has his old trick back after a long and tedious time. Bros. Schultz and Welsh have first tricks at last ; some wait. Bros. Eidt and Eagan want first tricks badly, but they must wait, too. "Bell.” Syracuse Division ~~ The meeting In Rochester, April 2nd, was not very well attended owing to the shorts age of men and so many being off sick. Eighteen members were at the evening meet- ing. which was addressed by General Chair- man Morey, Bro. Zimmerman from the Rochester Division, and Bro. Conlin from the L. V. Buffalo Division. Using the telephone by trainmen and other outside parties to get information that should be handled by the operators only was severely condemned and it was decided that we should all do what we can to put a stop to this. A sister was beat out of about five hours overtime when a derail- ment occurred at her station just because the dispatcher sent the orders and messages to the conductor Instead of calling the oper- ator. I copied the Bame orders and the dis- patcher had to send them two or three times to this conductor, and then he did not have them all right. When these trainmen come in and ask to talk to the dispatcher find out what they want, and if it is anything you can handle, do the work yourself. Of course where the dispatcher asks you to let him talk to a conductor you can’t very well refuse, but you can refuse to let a conductor or anyone else take your place and use the phone. We want to do away with this prac- tice and ask you all to help. Bro. Wm. Potter is back at SS 20 after spending a month in Florida, and Bra F Palmer is back at SS 18 after a week on the sick list. Bro. C. N. Koch, agent Wheatville, relieved a week by Sister Ott to attend the funeral of his grandmother Bro. Sherwood, third trick crew dla- dispatcher Coaling Plant, has gone into the raldo service. Bro. H. F. Cundiflf fills the caller’s job. Sister Hessanthaler relieved Sister Luo Hoar at Port Gibson for ten days. It is now Bro. E. W. Derby, Lyons second. Sisters Lewis and Ott recently took a shopping trio to New York. Geo. Ray fell down on the Syracuse mes- sage office Job and Old Dad Coleman, who bumped Chase at PIttsford second, has a crossing flagman's job in Geneva, two nons who had no use for the O. R. T. Bro. Frank Wetzel went to SS 29 days and Bro. Reynolds, from the falls road, beat me to it in going to SS RQ. Bros. Lake and Vic Trick, SS 35, have changed tricks, Bro. Lake having bought a home in Batavia. Bros. McDonnall and Summers are still getting baskets full of eggv and butter from the country. Bro. A1 DeBerger is now working in East- mans, relieved as agent Churchvllle by Bro. J. L. Ratigan, with Bro. Hounsell on second You boys on the main line send in a few notes. Even Bro. Mansell has failed to send me any recently. Keep after the few non? and give them no rest until you land them Hovby and Tilton, Dlv. Cora Hudson Division— New brothers : W. Woolsey, asaistam agent Tivoli ; G. Woods, 60th street VI. trick 7 2d street abolished and the work P®1 on Bro. Woods. New working agreement signed between O- R. T. and N. Y. C., Buffalo and etft effective March 1st. Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 625 flro. Moate, Hyde Park, bid in ticket clerk, Poughkeepsie. Bro. Trent is back on S S 68. Bro. H. H. Stickle. SS 66, has his name on the roll of honor tills month In the N. Y. C. magasine. This is the third man from there to be thus placed, a proof of good, faithful union men at that point. General Chairman Morey gave a very forceable talk at our last meeting on the proposed wage movement on all lines east of Chicago. Bro. Bradley, editor of “The Truth” and president of the Trade and Labor Council of Poughkeepsie, will address the next meeting. Bro.Tenney is on 29 days’ leave, and Bro. Baer, SS 93, has made application for leave of absence, Bro. Henion, agent Montrose, on his honeymoon, was relieved by Bro. A. Burger. Bro. McNiver, SS 68, is also on his honey- moon trip to Detroit and the West. Con- gratulations to the happy couples. Under- stand wedding bells will soon be ringing for one of our overseas heroes. Cert. 932. C. I. & L. “Monon Route/' Div. 9. Northern Division — Bro. H. A. Fulmer, second Cedar Lake, was drowned April 1st while trying to cross the lake by the boat capsizing. His body was found April 6th. Burial at Salem. Sev- eral of the boys that could get off, or whose tricks permitted, attended his funeral. We miss Bro. Fulmer and were all very sorry to hear of his untimely death. Bros. Terry, sefeond, and Shough, first at Shops, traded tricks a few days so the lat- ter could' "set in” at dispatcher's office. Bro. Butler relieved him and Bro. Shorr and Fogg, each working a night recently reliev- ing Bro. Lennon on third there. Bro. Carney, first Monon, relieved two days recently by Butler, our new relief agent ; Bro. Morey, second Sheridan, was also off several days recently. Mike Hunt, second Westfield Tower, still thinks he can get by without being up-to- date. Remember the motto, boys. “No cardj *o favors.” Southern Division — Bro. Jackson, first Bedford, is on 90 days’ leave, enjoying life on his farm at Harrods- burg. Bra R. W. Duncan, third Gosport, off with mumps. Offioe closed, no relief avail- able. Bro. Parks is being congratulated on the arrival of a boy at his home. I suggest that we all remit twenty- five cents each every month to General Secretary and Treasurer Rees, Francesville, to start a flower fund the same as other roads have. Bro. R. R. Duncan expects to go to third Gosport, new position. Supt. Stemm has It up with General Manager May for appro- priation. ”R,” Cert. 213. Phiiadeiphia & Reading R. R., Div. 10. New York Division — The grim reaper paid a visit at the home of our loyal brother, E. E. Swartley, for many years agent at Hatfield, and claimed him after an illness of several months. The high esteem with which Bro. Swartley was held by the New York Division boys can be estimated by the number of agents and operators, who called at his home in Hat- field to pay their last respects to a departed brother and also who attended the funeral service. Through the efforts of our local chairman a large and beautiful O. R. T. wreath was sent to Hatfield and delivered there by Bro. Wildonger, to whom we are very grateful for this courtesy. Bro. Johnson, second North Wales, who decided he wanted to work extra, has been sent to West Point for three months, which will keep him away from the big, fast jobs he expected to work, to show the boys that he was a good man yet, even though he has been married a year. No doubt you boys enjoy seeing a few New York Division notes in The Teleg- rapher occasionally and realize how few and out-of-date some ot them are. But don't you think most of the responsibility for a write-up in these columns can be laid directly at your door. The correspondent works a middle trick, has to use both trol- ley and train to get to work every day, and cannot be expected to canvass the division for notes. How much easier his head could rest if you would all take Just five minutes’ worth of interest in thees columns, and be- fore the 19th of every month mail him what you think would be of interest to the rest When they see a big write-up of good news, those with faint heart and slim purse will keep paid up just to read it. Keep after the none, talk O. R. T. to them until they get so tired of listening to you that they will join. Don’t let any of them bluff you, claiming they are in. Make them show an up-to-date O. R. T. card. If they cannot do so, call them. They are ashamed to admit they are not in the Order and too cheap to come in, but will take all they can get because it does not cost them a cent. You know who has to pay the freight for them, so get busy and keep busy until they sign up. Cebt. 948. Shamokin Division — My failure for not having a write-up the last two months has been due to sickness and moving, two things sometime8 unavoid- able. I hope you have not lost interest, or consider yourselves neglected. It so. write either the local chairman ^ tnytett your Digitized by L-ooQie

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626 The Railroad Telegrapher. troubles and we will do our best to remedy them. There are still a few* ttons you could work on. Write your local chairman for a list of them and the delinquents in your district and give them no rest day or night until they Join or came back into the fold. Ex-Local Chairman Marony, on his way to work March 17th, fell through a pair of steps, tearing the ligaments loose In his knee and heel and is still in the hospital. We hope to hear him on 79 wire in the near future. We are glad to see Local Chairman Smith back on the Job again after being off some time with a broken arm and hope we may have the pleasure of seeing his smiling face at a meeting before long. H. R, Clark, Cert. 257. Delaware & Hudson Ry., Div. 12. A well attended and interesting meeting was held in the G. A. R. Hall, Scranton, Monday evening, April 12th. General Chair- man Johnson was in attendance and made several matters clear. The meeting came to order at 8 p. m. and did not close until 11 :30 p. m., when the out-of-town brothers had to catch their train. Local Chairman Griggs was in the chair and Bro. Pizer acted as secretary. Local Chairman Griggs, Bro. Dockerty, Devaney, Boles and yours truly were the only members present at the joint meeting held in Carbondale, April 11th, where sev- eral good speakers gave interesting talks on the railroad situation in the United States today. Bro. Crane spent a few days with the folks in Carbondale. Joe weighs 215 pounds since he went to live in the county, near the state line. Bro. Powell, first Minooks Junction, off a few days recently, having a slight opera- tion performed on his Jaw, was relieved by Bro. Law. Bro. Rosener, third Hudson, off sick, re- lieved by Sister Ketrick, who also relieved Bro. Griggs several nights and yours truly one night. The recent railroad strike caused a rush of business to our line, which kept everyone hustling. Looks good at Washington these days. The papers say the Wage Board is taking pleas from the committees. T. J. S., Cert. 1027. Q. M. & »S. Division — We should at least have a write-up every two months, if not every month, and let our United States brothers know that the Canadian men are interested in our journal. Boys, send me your news, principally those on the Southern Division, as it is impossible for me to know what Is going on there. Bro. J. A. Broux, agent at Sorel for twelve years, obliged to resign on account of his health, was relieved by Bro. J. G. Chabot of Pierreville, and he later by Bro. Marter. agent Noyan Junction. He was succeeded by our old Bro. Blanchette, who went to the C. N. R. last fall. Bro. Seguin, sick four months, was re- lieved by Bro. Lafond, and Bro. Peloquin. La Bate, by Bro. Legris of Sorel. Bro. Dessert, at Yamaska for over ten years, has gone with the C. N. Railways v. Parent, Que. Our best wishes go with him. Bro. LiBoiron, Contrecoeur, on the sick list, relieved by Bro. LaBarre, of Pierre- ville, and he by Bro. Comeau. We are sorry to learn the decease of tb' mother of our oldest member in the unioa and on the road, Bro. Malo, of Varenne, relieved a few days by Bro. Francoeur to attend the funeral at Contrecoeur. Our deepest sympathies go to him. Bro. Armstrong St. Aime, has been given Yamaska agency, vice Agent Dessert reliev- ing Agent Lamothe at St. Aime while it i* up for bids. L. H. P., Cert. 195. Atlantic Coast Line Ry., Div. 15. Charleston District — There have been numerous violations of our agreement recently, some possibly un- conscious, others with full knowledge of tlk fact waiving the dollar a day clause on account of some relative being allowed to work their regular assignments. Brothers, you have no right to do this, and it should be discontinued immediately. For on* brother to waive any part of the agreement will make it react on some other brother. Give the company what is coming to it absolutely, and demand what is due you. I have seen more than a dozen men working off of their regular assignment and not a single one claiming their contract rights You are all deprived of making anything or Sunday or a minute’s overtime, when you know and the company knows that the work cannot possibly be done in the allotted tiro* Then why waive something that you a contract right to claim. I have actually heard of some working excessive hours a* “pro-rata” when the overtime rate Is tin* and one-half. Get on the job and live up to your agreements or charges are liable to t* preferred against you. I have refrained from mentioning tlu- heretofore, but It has now become so wry noticeable that I would not be doing Biy duty to pass it up longer. Another thing you should pay more auc- tion to is the use of your telephone by otbe* to secure information which you should *- cure yourself. Before the time of the ttfc- phone trainmen requested you to* convex with the dispatcher for them. Now they de their own talking. The phone was instil Digitized by Google _ t

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Tub Railroad Telegrapher. 627 in your office for your use and you are paid to use it, therefore see that no one except an official of the company and yourself has access to it. These "operator-conductors" are virtually learning the business through your carelessness or thoughtlessness and it means your ruin. If they will insist on using the Dhone, drive them to the woods. Do it from a box on the pole and don’t afford them the pleasure of a comfortable seat and a "Hett-holder’’ receiver in your office. Some of the engineers are beginning the same prac- tice. Keep your eyes on them while hang- ing around also. H. E. Bolick, L. C. Charleston District Notes — The Savannah meeting was attended by Bros. Parks, Bedenbaugh, Wyse, Klint- worth, Brooker, Maryes, McRoy, Mensing and Local Chairman Bolick. Bro. Blair, back with us again, is on second Ben net Yards. Bro. F. L. Coward is now assistant cashier in one of the Lake City banks, succeeded as agent there by McElveen. Sister Bedenbaugh gives up Ritter agency to become chief clerk to Bro. Bedenbaugh at Ehrhardt agency. Bro. J. B. Mixson has returned to his pre-war position as soliciting agent for the W. S. S. B. We wish him success. Bro. Bolick can furnish the names of the nons on this district to any of the members who will try to land them. I have been appointed division corre- spondent for this district and am depending on the* different brothers to help me. Send me the happenings as they come to your knowledge and I will put them where they belong. C. A. McCrea, Cert. 499. Pennsylvania R. R., Div. 17. Members West Jersey Seashore and Cam- den Terminal Division — For the purpose of adjusting grievances, the duly authorized committee, consisting of Bros. William Abramson. J. M. Corsiglia and myself, met the division operator, Thursday, April 8th, which meeting was very agreeable, and our committee is well ■satisfied with the treatment received, the officials showing a tendency to co-operate with us in the adjustment of grievances, and toward the betterment of our working con- ditions. This should be appreciated, and your appreciation shown by your hearty support of the committee that is working at all times' for your interest. It is wonderful what changes can be brought about through organized efforts, and the sudden change of the attitude of the operating officials is an example of what our members have accomplished by their loyalty to our organization, after having been denied their rights of proper represen- tation for so many years. We are all proud of our victory, and should renew our efforts toward a 100 per cent organization, which we can soon reach by a little more activity on the part of every member. Our delinquent list is fast diminishing, and it is only a matter of time before every- one will be again in good standing. It is time for the gentlemen on the Camden Terminal Division who have been awaiting the recognition of our committee to make good their promises, and I ask the members in that vicinity to make an effort to improve the conditions of the Terminal Division. Let every member try to get at least one appli- cant during the month. Thanking you all for your past assistance, with best wishes, I am, yours fraternally, H. H. Peacock, Local Chairman. West Jersey and 8eashore Division Notes — The few who have not paid their dues for this term should remit them at once. Bro. Peacock cannot call on you all. He, too, works a trick and every man should do his part to lessen his work in that direction. You all have had ample notice when dues should be paid and there is no excuse for being delinquent. If you are sick and un- able to pay, write Local Chairman Peacock to that effect and he will advise you what to do. We are glad to note that Mr. Husted re- ceived our committee and treated the mem- bers fine and hope we may continue to do business with him on an amicable basis, as it will be better for all concerned. Every man should be on his job and cause as little complaint as possible. When the schedule negotiations are signed and all the offices therein protected by our committee, some non-members will probably realize then that it would be to their advantage to carry a card, as our committee can only represent our membership. It Is time now for those who said when our committee was able to do business with the company officials they would Join to re- deem their promises, and we should see that they are furnished with application blanks, which Bro. Peacock will gladly furfliefti. Then see that they are sent in with the proper amount of fees and dues to entitle them to membership. Our men here were not involved in the re- cent strike. It is a case of hands off, which is the right attitude at such times. Bro. L. Burke, off sick for over three months, is up and around, getting better slowly. He is always glad to have the boys drop in and see him. Quite a few Rave done so and more could do so if they wished. He likes to see them as it helps him to pass the time away. Bro. Peacock can give you his address any time you wish to call on him. Now that the Railroad Wage Board has been appointed and is getting into action Digitized by Google

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628 The Railroad Telegrapher. our long negotiations will probably soon be brought to a successful close and get what we are entitled to. Cbrt. 74. Delaware Division — It is now Bros. H. Sterling, E. E. Reihm. S. M. Jen Jins at “BE” Tower, R. R. Rey- nolds, W. P. Wilson at *‘BI” and H. B. Hitchens at "DJ.” Boys, keep up' the good work until we get a 100 per cent division. Bro. E. K. Price, displaced at Delmar split trick, discontinued, displaced Bro. R. H. Moore, Wyoming third, now relieving Bro. Pennington, agent Lambson. on six months’ furlough. Bro. C. E. Anderson, agent Kenton, visited relatives recently at Cape Charles, Va., and Bridgevllle. Bro. J. L. Miller spent a few days down on his farm near Denton, Md., looking over the pea crop. Bro. J. E. Mahew, off a few days round- ing up none, reports success. Bro. H. C. Jones, clerk-operator Smyrna, has taken a, position with a bank there. We all wish him success. Reduction of force in Wilmington relay caused Bro. R. C. Jones, first, to displace Bro. A. S. Radish, Girdletree, who displaced Bro. J. L. Hummer, Frankford, who took Oxford, putting Bro. J. E. Wothers on extra list Visitors from this division in New York and Philadelphia recently were Bros. Gra- ham, Freeney, Robinson and West, with their wives, and Bros. Kemp and Postles. Bro. E. K. Price was a New York visitor and Bro. P. L. Wain wrlght, “PO” Philadel- phia, and wife, visited relatives a few days in Dover and Seaford. Bro. L. V. Travers and bride, spending their honeymoon South, will reside in Eas- ton, Md., after May 1st. More wedding bells will probably be ringing very soon around “CK.” Boys, keep your eyes open and give the contracting parties a sendoflf. Bro. E. B. Millman, chief clerk to the chief dispatcher, goes back to relief sched- ule No. 1. Bro. D. F. Russell, extra agent is now relief clerk, vice Bro. Ryan to Dover third, vice Bro. Legar to first “MQ.” Brothers, send your items to R. C. Robin- son, Wyoming, Del. Let us have a good write-up each month. Cert. 1446. Baltimore Division — Appoint yourself a committee of one to get the few remaining nons on this division. It Is as much your interest to have it solid as it is the officers of the organization. The better we are organized the greater results will be secured. Brothers, give all assistance possible to keep traffic moving and show the officials that members of the O. R. T. give the best of service. The brothers who were not present at our March meeting missed a treat. Bros. Hind- march. Stone and Jana gave very interest- ing talks on the progress made on line west and some excellent advice as to build- ing- up the O. R. T. Bro. Miller gave a his- tory of the Penna. case, showing what had been done by the committee. Brothers, If you want to keep posted on what is going on, it will be necessary to attend the* meetings, as there is always a report from the local chairman and others on what oc- curs between these meetings. We were sorry to hear of the death of Bro. Paul Stewart. He was buried before the local chairman heard of his demise, therefore no arrangements could be made for attending the funeral or furnishing flow- ers. The local chairman should be advised immediately of the illness of any member Bro. E. C. Bange, one of our old and faith- ful members, also passed away suddenly Friday night, April 16th, and was buried Tuesday, the' 20th. Only a few of our mem- bers were able to attend the funeral. Rw bereaved families have our sincere sym- pathy. Bro. N. B. Curry, retired March 1st, wu presented with a purse by the employes of the telegraph department Friday evening April 9 th, at a largely attended meeting of the Monumental O. R. T. Club. The presen- tation speech was made by Bro. Bobllts in * very able and pleasing manner, and was feelingly responded to by Bro. Curry. Super- intendent Cinnickson and Division Operator Kendig were among those present and tb? former made a very interesting address We wish to thank the club for the time al- lotted us for this purpose and for the is vitation to remain and partake of the tivitles that followed, which was Accepted bj most of them and the club was given quit' a boost Bro. Allen was relieved two days by Bn Merryman. Bro. Horney relieved W. L. Jones, who i- in the hospital again for an operation of his leg. Items of interest should be sent to Bro W. R. Johnson “VN,” who has been if pointed correspondent Ckrt. it* Sunbury Division — The meeting in Sunbury, April 8th, in tb* B. of L. E. Hall, was attended by about # members. The boys came out to see wait was delaying our schedule and they four- out After the agents question is settled if Washington, it will not be long until ** can have a schedule the same as fltbe roads have been enjoying for years. We are working harder than ever and *»* pect to make this year a hummer. We,**2* every telegrapher on this division to join t* Plumb Plan League and find out should know. The cost Is only Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Kaxlboajj Teleoeapukk. 620 and as a member you also get “Labor,” published weekly at Washington, the only paper that gives the news we should get Every worker in this grand old U. S. A. should be getting this paper. I am satisfied, after reading one issue of it, that you will make an extra effort to get to the polls next election and cast your vote for the man that represents labor. The manner in which our government is being used and cfbused is bearing fruit, for the sentiment is becoming strong among the working classes to have a peaceful revolu- tion by using the ballot to- right their , wrongs. This will retire the Wall Street tools, now in public office, who are forever placing property rights above human rights, with their eyes on nothing but the almighty dollar. Give the working people, who com- pose 95 per cent of our population, a just share of what they produce and they will do their full duty as citizens in taking care of all agitators and trouble breeders. Organized labor is here to Btay, and the sooner everyone concerned realizes that fact and respects its rights, the sooner we will have peace and harmony, and the sooner un- rest and agitation, so much now in evidence all over our land, will pass away. Then we can get back to reconstruction and normal conditions will prevail. In mutual co-oper- ation will be found the solution of read- justment and reconstruction. Just a little warning : Oet organized one hundred per cent and stay organized. The delinquent list was small, but we are surprised there was any. Pay up, boys ; don't slack when you are mostly needed. Bro. W. D. Grant, operated on at Danville about two weeks ago, last reported getting along fine. We all wish Billy a speedy re- covery and hope to see him back , on the Job soon. As the relief operators on this division are receiving some back pay, I hope the one that don’t carry an up to date will invest a small amount of It and be one of the boys. There has been several changes on this division in the last few months, and as every sister and brother no doubt knows all about them and space is scarce, it will be unnecessary to print them. “Scribe,” Cert. 1655. S. Y. P. & O. Division^ Bra L. M. Davis, Newchurch, taken seri- ously ill while on duty, was relieved by Vin- cent Bro. O. P. Gillls is back on third Salisbury after a tussle with the “flu.” Bros. Mesick, Salisbury and Copter, Poco- moke City, spent their relief days in Phila- delphia. Bro. Bell, Exmore, is visiting rela- tives in Norfolk. Bro. W. R. Gladlng has returned to Cape Charles from several days’ trip over the Southern roads. Bro. Scarborough, at Parksley, is getting hte barrel factory in condition for his crop of spuds. Bro. W. J. Haley was unfortunate enough recently to lose his cow. Bro. O. S. Mears has sold his jewelry business to Bro Truitt Bro. Trice, Pocomoke City, has changed his trick in order to give more time to his chicken ranch. In the March journal I gave J. A. Rue as a brother. This was an error; he Is still a non. But it is now Bros. L. T. Baker and U. G. Miles. Cert. 7471. Pittsburgh Terminal Division — Carnegie O. R. T. Club met in Hustler Building, Carnegie, Wednesday evening, April 14th. Sixty members were present. Bros. Dinges and Roberts gave interesting talks, showing that serious conditions con- fronted labor organizations, and every mem- ber should consult the chairman before ex- ploding and feeling sorry afterward, as our case will be presented shortly to the new Labor Board along with that of the other unions, when our contention to represent the agents in the proposed schedule will no doubt be acted upon along with our wage demands. Every Order man should come to these Carnegie meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, as we are going to have a surprise in store for the members at every meeting. Too much credit cannot be given to Bros. Carlson and Depoo for their untiring work. Until we have a chairman for the Terminal, all who can do so, come to Car- negie and learn what Is what. Cert. 370. Panhandle Notes — Scully and Carnegie simply “went dead” during the first week or so of the switch- men's "holiday” and business w'as at a standstill. New members : Bell, Conrad and Decnan, first, second and third “SQ” Scully. Con- gratulations to the brother who did the good work. Keep it up. Dues for May, |8.60, and June, 67.60. See Bros. Carlson, Depoe, or Dinges for application blanks. Bro. Shannon from the Ft. Wayne side and another brother was present at the last meeting. Come again. Brothers and sisters, you are all welcome. Bro. Richard Welsh is now with the Bell company. Pittsburgh Yard — Bro. Pentecost has several new members rounded up. Nobody but volunteers worked here dur- ing the switchmen's strike. Bro. Zentmeyer, Wilmerding, is off sick again. We wish him a speedy recovery. Bro. Jones, a popular passenger conductor on Lines East, was instantly killed while cutting off a helper at “R” Tower on Sat- urday morning, April 18th. We tender our Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. MO deep sympathy to his widow and children, one of the latter being only six weeks old. He carried insurance in the Order of Railway Conductors. Brothers and sisters, above all keep your assessments paid, for you know not when the angel of death will overtake you, and in these times of H. C. L. it requires money even to die, as much as we dread it. Send your notes to Bro. Dlnges, 7051 Bennett street, Pittsburgh, Pa. Cert. 370. " GO *' Relay — Our membership is steadily climbing. You fellows out the lines who contemplate bid* ding on “GO** jobs would do well to bring along a card, or secure one upon your ar- rival. Bro. Strang resigned May 1st to enter an- other line of business at Philadelphia. We are outgrowing our present quarters, and it is rumored that the office is to be enlarged by removing partitions that will about double our floor space. No word from Bro. Clifton since his leav- ing. He must have got “writer's cramp'* in that right wing. C. J. Conk, Cert. 7611. Pittsburgh Division t East End — The newly reduced Pittsburgh Division has placed the regular chairman, John R. Dlnges, Jr., on the newly-created Pittsburgh Terminal. Until such time as the members on this division can decide on a local chair- man I have agreed to accept the position of “acting chairman.'* Center on some live brother to fill this position when election time comes, and re- member that each individual member has an equal duty with the chairman to see that the employes working with them join and help to maintain the membership at the highest possible percentage. You cannot have collective dealing unless you maintain a collective body, and if you are doing your share toward your Industrial progress, and permit those you come in contact with to enjoy your efforts, then you come close to the “dead easy” line. Don’t phone the chair- man and inform him where he may be able to get a member, but secure an application blank, make yourself an organizer and get him. On the Pennsylvania Lines the vote for the O. R. T. to act as the representative body received 4,360, and the membership reaches just about 3,500. The difference, nearly 1,000, represents the number willing to take everything they can get while others do the work and furnish the finances. The old Pittsburgh Division voted 297 for the O. R. T. group, with about 190 in member- ship. It is to close up this gap, everyone is interested, or should be. If you invested in a bank deposit, you would not permit another to draw the interest when due, and the case of the employe that accepts every- thing and contributes nothing is an excellent analogy. See that your office companions do their share. If you are not that much interested, then that is your affair as wen as the chairman’s. Everyone be up and doing and see that no industrial slacker is around where you work. J. H. McGrail, Local Chairman. C. J P. Division— We regret to report the death of Bro. Geo. Skelton, a faithful employe with twenty- three years’ service on this division, who passed away April 10th after an Illness of two days. He had worked several years at Kinsman Street Yard, and had many warm friends among trainmen as well as operators We extend the relatives our sincere sym- pathy. I wish to congratulate our members upon their prompt payment of dues. It is grati- fying to know that we are not going to b? “quitters” in the struggle for justice and right We still have a few delinquents and a few nons left and I will appreciate your as- sistance in helping to make this division solid. Bro. Breniaer, first Wheelock, has re- signed to devote his entire time to his farm; Bro. Nightengale, the poet, has accepted a more remunerative position elsewhere, and Wheelock was taken off the C. & P. map. D. Williams and R. F. Selfridge, agents at Beaver and Van port Pa., volunteered their services to work on No. 402 and 403 Bellaire to Pittsburgh as strikebreakers during the switchmen’s strike. If you have not already done so, and can spare a dollar, join the Plumb Plan League, and get the weekly paper “Labor” tor one year. Bro. Geo. Martin, your regular correspond* ent, will appreciate your items. C. A. Thanby, L. C-, Cert 4t Columbus Division — We still have four nons holding regular jobs. Our extra men holding a card makes up for the numerical standing of our divi- sion. Eligible, 138 ; membership to Ate, 125, including 15 in “DK,” leaving 11 now now. The delinquents are C. B. Homkber, A. T. Stuard, P. Miller. P. McMurdy and! Glenn, all operators. The nons are agnate and extra men. There is no excuse for aw of these men being, nons. They are all wip- ing the benefits secured by the O. R. T. StA should help to pay the bills. Keep after tbw and remember, “No card, no fa row,* V® i work wonders. Start now getting your July dues tagUfa* ! and let us eliminate the delinquent 1M ** j tirely this time. Digitized by L-ooQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 63t On account of Bro. Boland leaving ”DK” there are no notes from this office. P. L. Martin, L. C. E. A A. Division — Local Chairman Bro. Sheldon, first West street, relieved several days by Sister Sois- sons. Sister Maloney, who relieved Bro. Sedg- wick, first Edenburg, also relieved Bro. Bat- telger. first Haselton, while attending court. Bro. Fulkerson relieved Bro. Campbell, manager at "NK,” several days while distributing Liberty Bonds. Bro. Liggett bid in "NK,” 7 p. m. to 3 a. m., and Bro. Kelty, in "NK” several yearq, bid in third Moravia street. Bro. Mitcheltree, first Mahoningtown, bid in first Wheatland, and Bro. Wallace, third, vice Bro. Mortimer, deceased. Bro. Caryl Shank, third Haselton. was off three days visiting relatives. Bro. Reiter, first "NP” Tower, was sick two days, causing second and third trick men to work 12 hours. Bro. Rawlins advises that owing to Gov- ernment restrictions limiting the size of The Telegrapher he has been obliged to dis- continue printing in the Fraternal Columns all "Assignments,” "In Memorlams,” "Cards of Thanks” and "Vacations,” and requests that all announcements of "Births,” "Mar- riages” and "Deaths” be written on separate sheets with full names and initials to insure promfit attention and insertion in the per- sonal mention column. This will explain why all the notes you sent me have not appeared In the journal. Keep after the few nons until they join. Apply “No cardj no favors ” and they will soon be with us and help make our division 100 per cent. Right now is the time w’hen we should all stand together. Cert. 3602. Zanesville Division — Bro. R. W. Bennett, first Junction City, was off several days on account of sickness, and Bro. D. E. Frame, second McCluney, with the mumps. Bro. A. Smucker, second Bremen, relieved by Bro. O. D. Brown, operated on at Lan- caster Hospital for appendicitis. We hope for his speedy recovers'. Brothers, perform your duties in such a pleasing manner that the officials of the road will be forced to acknowledge that Order men are the best. Be loyal both to the company and yourselves, remembering that loyalty, like charity, begins at home. £. D. Birkiroer and wife wish to thank us for the beautiful floral piece and kindness extended to them in their recent bereavement owing to the death of their son Robert. Cert. 8926. Richmond Division — The Richmond Division boys all miss "Doc” Bro. W. L. Temple, who bid in a trick at *TGM” St. Louis. We are glad to have Bro. F. L. Shockley with us again after several months in the train service. Frank Cronin, another old-timer back at the key, will soon be with us. If there is a non in your office or working opposite you keep after him until he joins. The May rate is 88.60. Also watch the new men and line them up. Bro. Workman has purchased a motorcycle and can now make speed clearing up any wire trouble. Examination on rules has been the pro- gram recently. Keep posted boys and be ready to do the right thing at all times. Rule 343 Is also worthy of our attention. ^Send Bro. Taylor your suggestions in re- gard to having some kind of a grand blow- out with music, eats, etc., and talks by grand and division officers. Let’s prove to the railroad officials by prompt attention to our duties that we can do better work under a schedule than with- out one. Then there will be no criticism and we can back up our local chairman with a demand for annual vacations with pay (which we used to enjoy), time and half for Sundays and holidays, and other important concessions we are entitled to. If you cannot attend the meetings and have any grievance or anything of impor- tance, write the local chairman, setting forth your views and he will present them for you. Also advise him of any schedule violations. It Is to the interest of us all to see that each individual concerned lives up to the agreement. Close observance of all the rules will greatly aid our committee to secure a revision. H. H. Pickering, Cert. 4373. Fort Wayne Division — The officials went over this division in a special train April 14th, asking the tele- graph operators and station forces if they wanted to volunteer to help out in Chicago during the switchmen’s vacation. They got eight agents and nine clerks to volunteer, five of the agents were only able to do light work. One of the supervisory agents w’ho volunteered and is switching in Chicago yards is a $176.00 a month man. No oper- ators or trainmen volunteered. Bro. N. F. Forscythe has returned from a visit to California and New Mexico. Bro. Jana, while helping to audit the divi- sion accounts at Baltimore, Md.t was re- lieved by Bro. Harrison. Bro. Sibert. working second "NY” tem- porarily. relieved at Plymouth by Bro. Sola- dean, and he by Bro, Brugh. Digitized by Google

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632 The Railroad Telegrapher. We should see that the new men coming on this division get an up-to-date as soon as possible. B. J. F.. Cert 2456. Members Mackinaw Division — Bra Frank A. Gruntz, Petoskey, Mich., has resigned as correspondent I will act in that capacity, as well as local chairman. Send all items of interest hereafter to me not later than the 20th, to enable me to ar- range and get them to St Louis by the 26th for publication the following month. Bro. Herrick, Morley, wishes to thank Us for the flowers sent him during his illness with the “flu," and Bro. Perry, Strahan, also desires to thank the members for the floral token sent his wife In Mercy Hospital, Cadillac, where she recently underwent an operation. Let us not forget our flower fund contributions to Bro. Lowell, North Yard. Notify me of anyone who is sick and we will try to send them something. W. D. Morhan, first Winter Street. Grand Rapids, wishes to thank the brothers for the $85.00 they raised for him by subscription, owing to the protracted illness and recent death of his wife. He has our sympathy in his bereavement. Bro. Dolberg, after an operation at Blodgett Hospital, Grand Rapids, is able to be around again. Bro. J. F. Geary, now at Winter Park. Florida, writes, wishing to be remembered to all the boys. Bro. John Kelley, at Kegomlc during the summer, is now with the D. S. S. A A. at Soo Junction. Bro. Lacey succeeds Freight Agent Wey- ant at Petoskey, who has taken a traffic posi- tion with the Michigan Extract A Tanning Co. there. Bro. Cross takes the new position in “UD,” succeeded as relief agent by Bro. R. L. Gates. Bro. Lilly bid in North Yard third, and Bro. Steimel, Manton agency. W. Quater- mas got Falmouth agency. No bids on it. Someone line him up. Under the new region arrangement on this system, as soon as the wage question Is set- tled, our present schedule will be revised and rate inequalities between agents and oper- ators, rates of pay in relay offices, etc., ad- justed. Your officers will do their part if you give them your support. Walter P. Hoffman. Cert 4141 St. Louis Divisionj East End — The members deeply regret to learn of the death of the wife of Bro. O. M. Coffin at Fillmore. Ind., and extend him our sincere sympathy. He wishes to thank the brothers for the beautiful flowers sent him. We are indebted to Bro. Vaughn at Greencastle, who looked after them and to the brothers who cheerfully contributed to the fund. Bro. Coffin was relieved during his wife's lllne® by Bro. Carpenter, relieved at Amo by Bro. Hilderbrand, who later relieved Bra Hop- kins at Summit and Bra Shortrage at Coatesvllle. Bro. Tom Pressnel, agent Harmony, k again bedfast and seriously ilL Bro. Noel, third Amo, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Geo. Felds, who also relieved Bra Stewart, Coatesvllle second, a few days. Bro. Felds' wife was brought home from Rockville Hospital recently, where she ha* been for treatment several months and not yet fully recovered. Bro. R. L. Williams, first "EY" Tower, visiting relatives at Anderson, Ind., relieved several days by Bra Kenneth Lotta. Bros. Clyde Phillips, A. Moser, R. M. Ryan. Bro. Harley Frost and Mr. Rab and their wives were recent guests of Bros. R. L. Wil- liams and E. H. Henderson of Seelyville. Bro. Geo. Stevens, relieving Bra /Shorty Vaughn, first Greencastle, was relieved on Almeda first by Bro. C. M. Clark, and he or third there by Bro. W. A. Wiseman. Bro. R. C. Siddens, third Greencastle, re- lieved several nights by Bra Baldwin. Bro. Williams, third Summit, off on ac- count of sickness in his family, Bros. Hop- kins and Alexander doubling. The meeting at Terre Haute, April 1Mb. was fairly well attended considering th« sickness out on the line and various other preventative causes. Chairman Whalen of the “Big Four" end Chairman HIndmarch delivered pleasing and instructive addresses. These worthy brothers, doing everything possible to get Justice for their men, are gaining ground regardless of the many thorns in their paths and are entitled to every ounce of support we can give them. Com* to the meetings the second Saturday of each month, find out what is going on and mak* your complaints to the proper authority, plan ahead and allow nothing to prev«i your attending. This is a duty we owe each other and ourselves. E. H. Henderson. Cert. 2SM St. Louis Division, West End — Bro. Roy Bolin, second Dexter, is os ond St. Elmo, vice Bro. Matthews, reltovtef Bro. McClure, agent. Sister Lola Tennyson, on third "AD" Tower, East St. Louis, vice Bra Usher at “DE” East St. Louis. Bro. F. E. Boar i» *» third Formosa. Bro. W. A. McCracken, third Rose I*** who graduated in dentistry from the ft Louis University College of Dentistry, & opened up an office in the New Holies Ban* Bldg.. Greenville, 111., and invites the si and brothers to drop in and see Wa ** still carries his up-to-date card. Digitized by Google

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The Kailkoad Telegrapher. 633 Bro. R. S. Pryor relieved Bro. Jones, first St Elmo, while he attended the funeral of Bro. McClure’s wife there. General Chairman Hindmaroh attended the Terre Haute meeting April 10th. Bro, E. F. Bolds, third St. Elmo, hid in third “EY” Tower ; . Bro. W. A. Armstrong, third “DS” Union Station, Terre Haute, and Bro. R. F. Smith, third McKeen. Bro. Stroot, third Poco, was off several days on account of an operation and Bro. Schwehr, second there, was relieved by Bro. Feld, Oreencastle. Bro. Hinch. first Stubblefield, relieved by Sister Lytell, Greenville. Bro. T. Thomas, second *‘F” Effingham, went to "GM” general manager’s office, St Louis, relieved by Bro. J. W. Cooley, "Wr second, later relieved by Bro. G. W. Moore. Bro. V. V. Smith, on first Rose Lake, re- lieving Bro. McCracken, and Bro. B. J. Koonce, on first “ AD" East St. Louis, re- lieving Bro. Surber. We now have the seniority lists, some- thing we have wanted many years, and now we can tell where we all “stand.” This is something more “worth while” the O. R. T. has secured for us, a bid rate of interest for all we have invested. Cert. 2410. “Nickel Plate” R. R., Dlv. 18. Chicago Division — Chief Dispatcher George Robinette died of pneumonia at his home in Chicago, Feb. 7th. The operators on this division sent a very beautiful floral wreath for his funeral, which was held in Newark, Ohio, his old home. Bro. Crisenberry is holding the $9.50 left of the amount contributed to purchase the wreath, as a floral fund. Nothing is more appropriate, In a case of sickness or death, than flowers. Twenty-five cents a month from each member would soon create a fund available at any time to be used on such occasions. G. 8. & T. Crisenberry has mailed a list to all members showing who have contributed to' this fund, and another list showing “who is who.” The only de- linquent this period is ex-Bro. Weldy, re- signed, and we have only four nons, one a new man. Since the assistant agents were included in our schedule we secured three new mem- bers. The one at Valparaiso we leave to Bro. Jack. Bro. E. V. Bteinmannow at Van Nuys, California, writes that the orange crop has Just been gathered and they are getting ready for the prunes and apricots. He still keeps up his card in Division 18 and wishes to he remembered to all the brothers here. Bro. EL A. Robinson is dispatching on third “DB” and Bro. J. EL Carney on the Chicago Division. We must all assist these two brothers in every possible way. Bro. EJnsley has returned to South Whit- ley after three months’ sojourn in California, and Bro. Meloy is back copying in “D8” after a visit in Southern California. Bro. Wittkamper, Knox depot, relieved by Bro. Andrews two weeks while off with the “flu." Owing to the shortage of telegraphers. C. C. Larrew, groceryman and ex-towerman at Knox, worked four nights at the tower there during the epidemic, from which Bro. Weakley is now rapidly recovering. The old force is back in “SL” after a siege with the same disease. Two new positions have been added at South Gary, and one at Thomaston. It is now Bro. R. R. Boyer at second Osborn. Only one inquiry has been made for a meeting in several months. Let us arrange to have one shortly, enjoy some good cigars and have a good time. As we have not had a write-up for three months I agreed to send this one in. If you will all furnish me with the happenings around your stations in time so I can ar- range and get them to St. Louis by the 25th of the month I will try to have this division represented in each issue of the journal. “Andy,” Cert 483. Mo., Kan. & Texas Ry,, Dlv. 22. Henrietta Division — The company is cutting forces in every way possible. Let s all put forth every ef- fort for the interest of our road, showing the officials that it pays to have union labor, and when we go up for a new schedule they will appreciate us. Agent Thomas, Bonita, having had a bunk car nicely fixed up for living quarters, has decided to remain and asked Bro. Myers for blanks. This will make Bonita solid, with Bros. Thorpe and Davis. Talk of consolidating Gainesville telegraph with ticket office, cutting off one ticket clerk, letting the third trick operator fill the position as general information bureau. This caused Sister Merchant to resign, going with the I. & G. N. Sorry to lose such a good member. Bro. J. F. Murphy from Division 61 is now of second Jolly, and Bro. J. J. Bastion from Division 31 on Lindsay second. Bro. John- son is now on third Dallas Yard, his old home grounds. Bro. Pagel, second Muen- ster, has transferred to Waxahachie until he settles his difficulty with the bonding company. Mr. apd Mrs. Broadwell, first and second Nocona, can't afford a card yet, but its now Bro. Sewell, third St. Joseph. Remember boys, “No oard, no favors Chief Dispatcher Claude Mansfield trans- ferred to Parsons, and E. V. Johnson is now chief and W. M. Stevens, assistant chief. Digitized by Google

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634 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Lancaster, first trick dispatcher, and Bro. Biggerstaff, relieving dispatcher, are making a wonderful garden as a protection against the H. C. of L. Bro. Rlggoll, third trick dispatcher, expects to visit relatives in England shortly. Thanks for the notes received. Would like to hear from the boys at W. Falls and Y. D. H. G. Robbins, Cert. 754. Parsons Relay — It is now Bro. Frymire ; only one non left in this office, and everyone paid up-to-date here. Bro. Hodge, wire chief, spent several days in St. Louis, relieve^ by Bro. Morris, and he by Bro. Hayes, who later relieved Bro. Wig- gins while he went to Ft. Scott to take 3 2d degree in Masonry. firo. Short has accepted a position with the Terminal (Company, Kansas City. Sorry to lose “Old John.” Mighty good booster. Bro. McLain visited home folks a few days. Parsons District — ^tlll have a few delinquents we are try- ing to line up again so they won’t lose their insurance. Bro. Bunn, “SY” Parsons, was relieved two weeks by Bro. Hayes. Bro. West, from the K. C. S., has been relieving at Windsor, Mo. Bro. “Doc” How- ard from Clinton has gone with the K. C. S. at Clinton, Mo. Addendum No. 2 to Supplement 13 allows all small non-telegraph stations paying $30 to $60 per month January 1st, 1918, prior to the application of General Order 27, 48 cents an hour, raising the wages at & num- ber of this class of stations on our line, and we are looking for the boys thus benefltted who are not members to come in with us now, as the O. R. T. got this increase for them and they should show the proper spirit by joining without waiting to be asked. A. W. Hale. L. C. C. M. & St. P. Ry., Div. 23. M usselshell Division — Interpretation No. 8 is bound to leave some scars, no matter how they distribute the lucre, but remember that without the efforts of our committee and the general officers there would have been nothing to disburse, so please be a little charitable. Local Chairman Sasser is back from a winter’s sojourn in sunny Mississippi. Joe gets tired of the “cullud folks” and the easy- going ways of the Southland and pines for the hustle of the great "treasure state.” Bro. Boylan, after a long siege as extra agent at Sumatra, etc., gets Musselshell second. Bro. £harp. third Kinsey, was called t< Nebraska to the bedside of his invalid father Bro. Robertson, Thebes third, who vteiteo Bro. Spurling at Forsyth between trains r* cently, talking things over, says Thebes is a money maker. Bro. C. C. Johnson relieved Bro. Spurting while the latter covered the division in as endeavor to bring in the several remainins nons and a few delinquents. Only one of the old-timers has lapsed fur the last half of 1919, and only one nor working out on the line. Very few delin- quents for the first half of 1920. Bear in mind that a monthly list of nons and delin- quents will be published from now on. If you are not with us you are “agin” ua, and should not object to being so listed. TV fellows that are paying the freight are en- titled to know and shall know who is riding dead head. If there is any particular rea son why you are not up-to-date and will state the facts to the local chairman can- didly, then you will be spared the publicity Eddie Buntin, after dabbling in oil stock* while relieving Bro. Cawley at Roundup ac- cumulated enough surplus sheckles to sun a goodly sized chicken ranch at Plem where he is now located on second. We were very sorry to lose Bro. and Sif- ter Flggott, who resigned second and thirl Sumatra to return to their farm near some summer resort town in Northern Indiana. They were loyal and faithful members, ai ways up to the minute with their dues an- daily routine. Their places will be hard to fill, both as to local membership and rail road work. Bro. Jaeger is relieving on sec- ond Sumatra, and Sister Harper on third. We are glad to have Bro. Guy Haling with us again and hope he will stick this trip. Bro. W. A. Johnson. Melstone. and Bro Ludwick, Ismay, are on the sick list Flo* ers will be sent to all who are ill as long as the fund holds out Bro. Burdick was in- disposed for a few days recently. Bro. Davies, Bundy, is out for State Sen ator. He should receive, and we believe vflt the hearty support of all card men, railroad men and ex-service men. Here's hoping if will soon be “Senator Davies’* from Muase' sjiell County. Bro. Cawood is anxious to get to Mildred and all there, including the “wimmen” tofc seem anxious to have him back. Missoula Division — Bro. C. E. Tyndall, former agent at Dram- raond, recently first trick operator and tfcV'. agent at Missoula, succeeds H. H. Tavenn^ agent there, who went to Everett Wash agency. I wish some brother or sister would gi# me the names and addresses of the boos si their stations so I can personally their membership. The many new operstarf Digitized by L-ooQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 635 on the line makes it very hard to know who are members and who are none. Get after them yourselves, also notify me and I will write them. Bro. H. W. Mellen has returned from a two weeks* trip to Minneapolis, Minn., Rock- ford, HI., and Madison, Wls. If the operators on this division have any- thing they wish taken up at the safety first meetings held in Deer Lodge each month, please notify me and I will be glad to at- tend to it W. H Logan, Cert 3164, Garrison, Mont. Columbia d- Idaho Divisions — Bro. Woods made a trip over the divi- sions recently, calling meetings at Beverly and Plummer Junctioh. Owing to No. 15 being late, there were not very many in attendance at Beverly. The Sunday meeting at Plummer Junction was attended by Bros. Hayes, Donley, Dahl, Schlatter, Potter, Woods, Morrow, Ashton, Thompson, Taylor, Barrett. Wilson, Swazey. Walden, Keegan, and Bro. Parriott, agent for O. W. at Plum- mer. No. 28 was on time and the meeting started about 10 a. m. and continued until about 6 p. m., with the exception of about thirty minutes for lunch. Bro. Woods had a stack of correspondence which he read, receiving the comments of those in attendance. An important resolu- tion was passed providing for the creation of a district from Deer Lodge to the coast and extending rights on thiB district the same as enjoyed by those in train and en- gine service which does not interfere with the rights of others in this district It car- ries a clause providing for a grievance man to cover this district to co-operate with the several local chairmen. This has been dis- cussed before and everyone is familiar with the benefits to be derived by having an ac- tive man covering this district all the time. The members of our craft are just as en- thusiastic as any, once they get together and talk things over, and we hope more of these meetings will be held in the future as the train service is such that a good attend- ance would be assured, especially on Sun- days. Understand a new time card in effect May 2nd will abolish the Columbia Division, ex- tending the Coast Division to Othello and the district from Malden to Othello becoming part of the Idaho Division with all the dis- patchers in Spokane. New electric motors are being received from the East and the steam engine will soon be a thing of the past from Othello west. Business is exceptionally good for this time of the year. A constant stream of empties is going west, which means heavy east-bound lumber business. Prospects for a good wheat crop in East- ern Washington are fine owing to the un- usual amount of rain. With a favorable sea- son there should be bumper crops. A good per cent of last year's crop in the elevators and warehouses has begun to move out, con- siderable going east for export. Extra men will be coming here shortly for relief work. See that they have the nec- essary documents. We are in good shape and must not allow our percentage to be lowered. Cert. 614. 8. C. de D. Division — The new artesian well at Platte, which has been needed so long now looks like a certainty. The well machine is on the ground and Mr. Prevoy from the Chicago office is supervising the work. R. R. Russell, recently appointed traveling freight and passenger agent, and C. N. Cur- tis recently called on the Platte force. Looks like old times to see someone who wants the business again. Henry Nichols, roundhouse foreman, laid up for a few days on account of having his foot crushed by having a coal gate falling on it at Platte. Bro. Harry McPherson, who was called to Montana by the serious illness of his mother, writes that she is much improved. Good news. Bro. Hirschberger has purchased one of the best residences in Charter Oak and is now settled peacefully. Bro. Geo. Thorpe, one of our I. A D. friends, is now agent at Tripp. Bro. Enright drew third Vermillion, succeeded by Sro. Sole from West Yard on second Parkston. Back pay will be here by and by. Cheer up! What would the world be if everything went along without a mishap? Operators and agent at Elk Point have up-to-date five different colors of polish on their office stove. Understand each color represents one of the force, but their office is kept neat and clean. Parkston has been blessed with an addi- tional clerk. Many thanks. We have plenty of work for her. Gravel pit at Ethan is being opened. Evi- dently an operator will soon be stationed there. Intentions are to gravel about 80 miles of track. Yours truly, now at Ethan, is a busy man. It seems it will be necessary to take a few lessons in Greek in order to explain fully to the extra gangs why the checks are late. Bro. W. E. Beck, our newly elected local chairman, is full of pep and is doing things the way they should be done. Help him to Improve our Order by getting after those six nons on the division in the right way. It is human nature to put things off. Get out of bed in the morning with both feet and go after them. Cert. 2062. Digitized by Tooele

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636 The Railroad Telegrapher. Hastings & Dakota Division — I herewith announce my marriage to Mies Moudry of Montevideo and my resignation as correspondent I have taken Prior Lake, Minnesota, agency, and my duties will pre- vent me from covering the correspondent’s work satisfactorily. Bro. Walker will shortly appoint ray successor, whom I hope you will all assist in order that he may be able to send in a good monthly write-up. Through the courtesy of Superintendent Flanigan's office we had the privilege of using a coach for the Montevideo meeting April 8th, presided over by Bro. Walker, who gave us a talk on grievance matters and stated that the flower fund returns from Artonville east so far were $85, and more was expected from this division west. Wreaths had been sent out for Bros. Hall- quist and Peterson and Bro. Geiser’s wife. He also reported that we now have a mem- bership of 2605. * General Secretary and Treasurer Derrick- son gave us a very interesting talk on the schedule and Interpretation No. 8, which took six weeks hard work, day and night, to check up and give us everything coming to us. Some who worked a few Sunday hours and full hour week day assignments got very little, while others working full Sunday hours got the biggest benefit. This Interpretation No. 8 was not a raise, but an adjustment which, with the new rate, should be paid on the April time and back time probably the first part of May. Where the mail is getting burdensome the brothers were advised to make a grievance of it to the local chairman so he can take it up with the trainmaster of the division. Falling to get it adjusted, it will then be taken up with General Chairman Soyster. The use of the telephones by trainmen where stations are closed nights, giving in- formation regarding their trains, and tak- ing train orders was also discussed and the brothers requested to report all such occur- rence hereafter to the local chairman, with the conductor's name and address, so the agents of such closed stations can put in a call, as they are entitled to and should get paid for it. It is practically taking away an operator's job from places where such calls are made. Bro. Derrickson urged every member to join the Plumb Plan League, $1.00 a year, including “Labor," a weekly paper worth twice that amount owing to the news direct from Washington showing up our Senators and Congressmen, and how Wall Street is running the railroads while we are giving the service. There were 28 brothers at the meeting and I lined up 20 of them in the Plumb Plan League. Bros. Larson, Martenson and Glander of Renville also joined the league. The latter was relieved a few days by Bro. E. L. Phelps, who also relieved Bro. Zim- merman at Glencoe, and Bra Kolb, first Montevideo Yard, latter on account of sick- ness. Bro. Phelps being later relieved ow day by his son, Bro. L. L. Phelps, agent Olivia, and then relieved Bro. Harris, agent Webster, S. D., appointed chief clerk to Macy Nicholson at Seattle. Bro. Stielow and wife spent a few days In the Twin Cities and Baster Sunday at Wat- son, and Bra Ruehmers, Montevideo, spent Easter Sunday with his parents at Glencoe. Bro. Silker has returned from Java Junc- tion and is now on third Minnesota FaOs. Bro. F. T. Koelfgren bumped Vingie from third Wegdahl. Bro. V. H. Putzier was relieved a fev days by Bro. Christianson. Bro. Fosnes from Watson is helping out at Wilmot, S. D. The storms the early part of April pot nearly every telephone and telegraph post on the ground between Appleton and Ronvilk Bro. Ruehmers, first side table Montevideo, got a chance to show his ability as a train dispatcher during this period. I want to thank all those who favored n* with news items during the few months I was correspondent. O. J. Kolb. Cert 1190. River Division — Did not have any notes for a write-up la*1 month. Would appreciate St If you would all send me what you can. Bro. Winters is back on first Hastings relieved on second by Bra Green. Bro. Hannan is relieving the ticket agenf at Winona. Bro. Milton is on third there Bro. Germaine from Mr. Shackpole’s office bid in second Lower Yard. “DN” closed: no men available. Bro. Clifford, South Minneapolis, was off several days. Bro. Du Till, cashier-operator Eau Claire, who visited us recently, now has a clerk. A conductor at a closed night office re- cently trying to get information on a pas- senger train was told by the dispatcher who tried to give it to him that a “telephs af" would be more serviceable for him until h? “brushed up on his Morse” Ckbt. 822® Kansas City Division — The application of the correct rate of pal as per Supplement IS looks pretty good, abe the back pay, which will soon be out If there had been no such organisation is tt* O. R. T. it’s quite likely we would new have heard of Interpretation No. 8 to that supplement Now let's line up and see if we cannot get a little Increase for the trott- ers who did not fare so well as some. BWI* body boost. Sister Mamie Scannell la relieving Balkey, agent Northern Junction. Third Lawson pulled off. Bro. Neodd*4 Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 637 bidding in second Washington temporarily. Several offices closed on Sunday again, mak- ing some extremely long laps in the block system. Bro. Lennox, second Williamsburg, was an over Sunday visitor at the Rapids March 21st Conductor John Franklin seems to be Im- bued with the right spirit and does not con- fine his organization efforts to his particu- lar craft He don’t hesitate to tell the non of his shortcomings and why he should Join the O. R. T. and help bear his share of the burden. The usual plaint and squawk of the habitual delinquent strikes a very discord- ant note in the judge's ear. It is now Bro. Noland at Moravia. He declares he will paste the new card on his hat so everybody can see where he stands. It will also soon be Bro. Callowat at Polo. Bro. H. G. Barnard, Ottumwa Junction, promoted to extra dispatcher, has been re- lieving on the East End. It is gratifying to see a good Order man get what’s coming to him. Sister Maude Sisk, Rutledge, surprised us all by announcing her marriage to Fireman C. C. Slddons of Ottumwa three months after the event The newlyweds are now on their honeymoon. Understand Sister Siddons will continue to work at Rutledge. Bro. Hodenfleld and his wife. West Yard, called to Illinois, were absent several days on account of death in the family. Bro. Hamaker. Ottumwa ticket office, has bought a place in the West End. Mrs. Emma Wright widow of Dispatcher Bra J. L. Wright who worked extra a few days, expects to go with the Western Union. Thanks to Bros. Tuomey and Hodenfleld for news. Cbrt. 762. Wabash Railroad, Dlv. 26. Decatur Division — Bro. A. B. Walker, agent Morrisonville, recently rushed out of his office to deliver a 19 order to the head end of a north bound freight. He stood astride of the east rail of tbe south bound track, and owing to the heavy wind and noise of the train failed to hear south bound passenger No. 9 bearing down upon him. James Waters, a transfer- man, saw the danger and shouted, but Walker did not hear him. With a bound or two he was at Walker’s back, grabbed him around the waist and lifted him from the track. If Waters had even made a misstep ur slip the fast train would have hit them both. Brothers, be very careful in delivering or- ders. Step back clear of the tracks after delivering them to the head end and be sure and look in both directions before you step up to deliver an order to the rear of train. In case of doubt take the safe course, prac- tice safety first, last and all the time. . Rot Vsbch, L. C. Decatur Division Notes — The total amount subscribed and paid into the typewriter fund was $60.50, which I turned over to Local Chairman Veech, who purchased from the Manufacturers' Type- writer Clearing House, Chicago, a Reming- ton No. 11, Serial 101482, for $40, express charges 92 cents, total $40.92, leaving a bal- ance of $9.58, which will be used as a flower fund. I wish to thank the members who contributed to this fund. It has not been a hardship on any of us and the division now has a machine to take care of the corre- spondence in which we are all mutually in- terested, therefore should share collectively in the expense. J. R. Hifner, Treas. Typewriter Fund, Montlcello, 111. Decatur Division, 9th and 13th Districts — The brothers on the 13th district held a meeting March 29th at Granite City at the Newman Hotel with ten present, including Local Chairman Veech. The meeting opened at 7 p. m. and closed 10 p. m. so the brothers could catch No. 12 north and get home. Bro. Veech made a talk in regard to our schedule and working conditions, and the status of our membership requesting the brothers working with “nons” and "delin- quents” to give them no rest until they lined up and not forget to use our slogan, "No card j no favors There seems to be a fad existing on the Decatur Division of "Put Me Out When They Clear” How many of the brothers have ever stopped to think that by this very move they are keeping some good brother out of a job. The officials are not asking us to do this. I have had the matter up with Chair- man White of the O. R. C. and he advises that the men should wait for a clear block on these passenger trains. Better be on the safe side, brothers. You who are doing this don’t know how soon your Job might be closed apd you will be making inquiry as to who the youngest assigned man is, or trying the extra list. Bro. Nash, second Stonlngton, relieved by Bro. Habben, on a trip West. Bro. Thomell, third Boody, is being re- lieved 90 days by Sister Naughton. Bro. Riggln, second Allen Decatur, is also laying off 90 days. Bro. Veech relieved by Bro. Halliwell on first Bement while lining up the nofls and de- linquents. Bro. Bourne, who went to first ^ullivan, relieved by Bro. Dooly at Edwardsville Jet. Bro. Fohrell still in the hospital with his hand. Bro. D. C. Ditzler is now on third Chicago Ridge, and Johnson, from Supt. Ehick’s office in Chicago, is breaking in as extra dispatcher at Decatur. Someone line him up. Bro. Ditzler, who relieved Bro. Custer, agent Palmer, while on sick list, also re- Digitized by VjOOQle

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638 The Railroad Telegrapher. lieved Bro. J. T. Duncan, agent Windsor, while he attended the Decatur O. S. & D. meeting. Bro. Halliwell, who relieved Bro. J. E. Mc- Intire, agent Hammond, while he and his wife visited in Detroit 10 days, and later re- lieving Bro. Ryan on second “XD” Decatur, is now on first “Q” Chicago. Bro. Norvell and wife, Granite City, spent Sunday recently with home folks at Litch- field. Cert. 740. 8t. Louis-Southwestern Ry., Div. 27. Tyler-LufJein Division — Bro. Cross, ”QN” Tyler, called to Corsi- cana owing to the illness of his father. Bro. Brown, third ”QN,” goes to “CG,” vice Bro. Morris, who has taken a position at Mt. Pleasant, and Pritchett, "CG," transferred to Mr. Matthews’ office. Bro. Peters, “CG,” spent Sunday recently in Jefferson with his mother. Bro. Mike Richards and Bro. Bender, latter from Craft, were recent Tyler visitors. It’s now Bro. Griflln at Chandler. Bro. Tharp is being congratulated on the arrival of a boy at his home. Bro. Neislor, who spent the day with us recently, reports that we are rapidly nearing the 100 per cent mark. Let’s all help him to reach that goal. You brothers who overlooked paying your dues, get busy. Don’t jeopardize your insur- ance by remaining delinquent, but get rein- stated at once. “Dick,” Cert 274. Seaboard Air Line Ry., Div. 28. Virginia Division — Help me to make this division 100 per cent by June. I appreciate the assistance some are giving and I know who you are. The board recently appointed by the Presi- dent will probably soon give us relief, but it will come only through a solid front. Boys, go after the whole party at Peters- burg, Burrows at Wake Forest, Gallion at Raleigh, Meades at Richsquare, C. P. Rod- well at Weldon and Barham at Lacrosse. I would like to see them all up-to-date and in good standing. Also our two train dispatch- ers, Cherry and Watkins. When you have finished reading your journal send it to some of these nons. J. H. Singleton is relieving H. G. Coleman ninety days at Roanoke Junction. Recently I dropped in at “GO” Norfolk and found a loyal bunch, about 14 of them, and not afraid to let you know where they stand. You can always count on good serv- ice from an order man. Brothers, read over your agreement until you know it by heart. I see cases every day where members are ignorant of the agm ment, and fail to get what is due them. Subscribe for “Labor,” fl.00 a yea r, put- lished in Washington, D. C., in our interest It will enable you to keep up-to-date with the labor world and know what our fec- ators and Congressmen are doing for and against us. What do you think of a meeting at Ocean View when it gets hot? As long as the nons receive the same pa* we get, and we treat them like members, they will never join. It is only by standing absolutely up to our motto, **No card, «e favors ,” that they will realize what "an up- to-date” means. Walter A. Joynkr, Local Chairman. Alabama Division — No one sent me any news. We could hare a nice monthly write-up if each brothfr would send the happenings at his station. We have a number of new extra men bm have been unable to learn their names o' whether they have a card or want one. When a new man shows up near you send this in- formation to Bro. Fanning. Advise me wb«n there is a change made at your station, to I can inform our local chairman here an had to double as there were no extra me1- available. Bro. G. F. Davis bid in Richland freight agency ; Bro. W. B. Moody. Sesser agency Bro. J. B. Graves, Ell&belle agency: H Griswold, second Clisby Park ; Bro. H. H Williams bidding in third there, and Bro E. H. Johnston took second ”SA” Savannah vice Bro. S. D. Surrency. on new clerk-opcr- ator job in dispatcher’s office. We have a few who failed to remit for their cards and will be dropped from member ship unless they make some arrangement" about it. Stand by the O. R. T.. boys, n will help you. H. L. Carter, Cert. 1423, Vldalia, Ga E. C. Division — We learn with deepest regret of the deat" of Bro. Hall’s wife. The entire family the sympathy of the membership. Several new jobs opened and no men avail able, some offices doubling up. Bro. R. S. Bryant has accepted a positiyr in Florence dispatcher’s office with the > C. L. We all wish him success. Bro. Jeneraette from McCall bid in lens agency, that being his home, and lb Brothers, formerly of Norfolk, Va.. got ®rsl trick clerk-operator at Poston. No bids & the job. Brothers promised to join sborfH Don't let him forget it. Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 639 Bro. W. K. Russell, second Poston, off recently on account of sickness, relieved by Bro. J. P. Fuller from Mullins Junction. Bros. Pullen, Harts ville. and second Rains, are back again on their jobs after a sick spell. Brothers, give the best service possible (luring your assigned hours, show up on the Job on the minute, answer calls promptly and get “GN" promptly from the dispatcher when your eight hours are up. If he does not give it turn in overtime slips to cover the time you are held. Do all you can in the prescribed time and if any work left over, do it the next day, while you are re- ceivfng pay for it. The company does not expect you to work without pay and you did not “hire out” to work without receiv- ing pay for the work performed. There are still a few nons and delinquents on the division. Don't stop at the first trial you make to get them to join or line up again, but keep after them until you get them. If you don’t know who and where they are, ask your local chairman. Practice “.Vo card, no favors*’ and you w’ill finally land them. Thanks to Bros. Richardson and Russell for notes. Come again. Cert. 1764. N. Y.. N. H. & H. Ry., Div. 29. Sew York Division — Our next meeting will be held on May 21st and every third Friday thereafter in Siegel building, 42 North Main street. Port Chester. X. Y. We were compelled to move on ac- count of remodeling the building where we previously met. At our last meeting Bro. A. C. Langdon was elected chiefs Bro. D. J. Kenny, first vice ; Bro. P. McMahon, second vice, and Bro. B. E. S. Seaman, secretary. Brothers, try to attend the next meeting. You cannot tell these times just when some- thing very important may come up, and you should get your information first hand in the lodge room. Don't make your toWer or station a uKnockcrs* Roost ” Bro. Nolan, appointed assistant examiner, has the best wishes of all the boys. Bro. Haniquet, who landed “CD,'' says no more out days and nights and all times and all places. Bro. Sheridan, who went to Phoenix, Ariz., to look after his wife, who is sick, has taken a temporary position with the Southern Pacific. Bro. McMahon, off sick some time, is back to work. Brothers, I wish you would send me some notes to New Rochelle as I have been ap- pointed correspondent. “XC,“ Cert. 1143. Boston Division — Our April meeting in Boston was the most interesting we have held since Local Divi- sion 89 was merged into System Division 29. We elected Bro. J. H. Robichau, chief teleg- rapher ; Bro. D. D. McLeod, first. Bro. Mc- Kenna, second vice, and Bro. McDermott, secretary, all old-timers and live men, who will do their part to make the meetings suc- cessful. Don’t forget that we meet the first Satur- day fiights of each month. Come and do your part. The success or failure of our organization lies with the membership far more than with the committee. No matter how good the men wrhom you elect, they are helpless without a live fighting membership to back them up. If you are not satisfied with what the members of your committee are doing, tell them so at the meetings, where they have a chance to explain their actions. Don't shout your grievances from the housetops, where everyone but the committee can hear them. Your committee wants to truly rep- resent you. and carry out your wishes as far as possible, but cannot do so unless you let your ideas be known. .Vice-President Ross and General Chair- man Handy were with us at our February meeting, but on account of the storm no one else but Bros. Dewar and McKenna showed up. Bro. Ross started for the March meet- ing, took the sleeper for Boston, expecting w’hen he awoke in the morning to be well on his way, when to his surprise he found him- self still in New Haven and no trains run- ning on account of the storm. Again in April both he and Bro. Handy planned to come when the latter was taken sick and is still confined to his bed. Bro. Ross was tied up in New* York with a meeting of gen- eral chairmen at that time, so of course it w’as impossible for him to be with us. Local Chairman Francis has appointed Bros. W. A. Gidley, Buzzards Bay, and D. D. MacLeod, 6f Whitman, as his assistants on the Local Board of Adjustment. The case of Mrs. Wilson has been appealed to New Haven. She claims rating from the time the company placed her in charge of the telegraph school at South Station. One brother has requested to be relieved every Sunday to allow the spare man a show and himself a rest. There are still a few who have not paid their dues for the current term. They should be paid at once. A brother recently requested to act as correspondent replied : “I am not writing for nothing now ” A correct idea, too. The division correspondent should at least have his dues paid. Wanted, a division correspondent. As no one will help me, I shall have to discontinue. Digitized by tjOOQle

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640 The Railroad Telegrapher. Apply to Bro. Francis, 13 East Spring street, Avon, Mass. Charles H. Smith, Cert 1565, System Division No. 29. Providence Division — Some 30 members were present at our regular meeting Saturday evening, April 17th, Including Local Chairman Brady. The committee appointed on ways and means at our last meeting to provide funds for the up-keep of this division rendered a partial report and announced that our first entertainment and dance would be held in Swartz Lodge, Odd Fellows, Saturday eve- ning, May 22nd. Tickets are ready and we hope every member will help to make this event a success by purchasing at least two from the committee on entertainment, Bros. J. J. McCabe. F. G. Carleen and W. R. Wil- liston. “Do your bit." Remember our slo- gan: “We can, we must, we will” . put Providence Division over the top. The committee on by-laws rendered a full report which was adopted at this meeting and the by-laws sent to President Manion for approval. Prior to the abolition of local divisions it was agreed to by our general chairman that regular meetings would be held in Provi- dence the same as former Local Division 35. The officers of the general committee are the officers of System Division No. 29 and the officers of Providence Division are the regular officers same as under the local divi- sion plan formed for the purpose of convey- ing the desires of members to the general committee, to promote social intercourse, provide ways and means for benefiting the members and the organization in general, and for many other similar purposes. The meetings of the general committee are the meetings of System Division No. 29 proper. Local Chairman Brady reports Bro. Far- ley back to work and improving. Bro. John A. Thayer (Bowenville), Fall River, is also back after a brief illness, and Bro. Callis after an attack of "flu" and tonsilitis. Bro. Dennis O’Brien, Newport, has re- turned from Jacksonville, Fla., where he says he met a fine bunch of O. R. T. boys. Bro. Lynch, Somerset Junction, who dou- bled a long stretch during the recent storms, is glad the snow has gone. Now, boys, it’s up to us to make our divi- sion what old Providence Division No. 35 was. We can do it, too. Get busy. D. M. Callis, Sec. and Treas. New London Division — Inertia is an awful thing, Most woes are due to it. If I were not inert myself I’d try to stir things up a bit. The man who fights progress may be sin- cere and well meaning, but he'll get run over. The obituary of a man killed by a circular saw stated that he was “a good citi- zen, an upright man, and an ardent patriot but of limited information regarding circu- lar saws." This is my position relative to railroad labor troubles throughout this coun- try, so it is better to say nothing. Towermen and operators allowing conduce tors, maintainers and others to "OS" trains on the telephone are establishing a very tad precedent which should be discontinued at once. Report to the local chairman the train crews that receive orders and messages per- taining to train movements over the tele- phones, giving full and complete particular* as to train, time and place, and a copy of such orders or messages with the name of the conductor, engineer or member of the train crew receiving such train order or ' sage. This will enable our gr’ to handle this matter with tl A certain clerk is reportin dispatcher by phone, after th« rapher has been relieved fro matter is now up with the offit cases coming to your notice ported to the local chairman, tention of the general commit! cials wish these reports the pt be opened as a telegraph posit Telegraphers who change the address should immediately noti chairman, who will notify the gi The Narragansett Pier Rail rot returned to private ownership a E. Gould promoted to superintend Bro. Charles A. Green, Wickforu Junction, who recently returned to duty after betas absent some time on account of sickness, i* now reported very ill with influenza. Sister Florence M. Mafoney bid in third Danielson, Bro. Charles W. Appleby seoon<i Wood River Junction temporarily, and Bro. Clarence E. Grimes third Midway Yard, re- cently opened. The meeting at Putnam, March 27th. w a decided success. We desire others living in the immediate vicinity of Putnam to at- tend the next meeting held there. Bro. A. P. Gerrish, Shannock, and the son of our local chairman, rode the Mason* goat at Hope Valley, R. I., recently. Bro. Chas. I. Fitch, agent at Noank. i- visiting his son at Jacksonville, Fla., Br* D. E. Mills substituting. A telegrapher recently bid on a positDf and his bid not reaching the chief train dta patch er* s office the place was n— to the oldest bidder among those whose had been received. In order to avoid t*s copies of all bid£ should be sent the fee*' chairman, who will then be able to pretec the Interests of all the bidders. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 641 It has been said "the meek shall inherit the earth," but they hardly get a bare liv- ing, much less any "earth" nowadays. E. H. Scriven, Cert. 918. 0. K. B. B. R. Division— Bro. House has requested me to act as division correspondent and promised to have a write-up every month. In order to do this I ask the members to keep me posted on all the changes. Bro. E. E. Wandenburg, from the New Haven, relieved Bro. Anson at Poughkeep- sie on account of sickness. After relieving Bro. Beatty at East Wal- den five weeks I relieved Bro. Wheeler at Stanfordville one week, and Bro. Trowbridge, Roxbury. Conn., three weeks, all on account of sickness. The latter is now on his way to recovery and will soon report for duty again. Second and third Stormville abolished on account of automatic signals being put in commission again. .Second and third Green Haven opened, Bro. Vail on latter, I. T. Haight on former. All tricks at Reynoldsville Summit also closed when automatic signals were put up, Bro. Cole going to Holmes second, Kent to third Holmes, and Kelly to second Hopwell Junction. It is now Bro. Rosa at Brinckerhoff. We are still looking for the increase due us since October 1st, 1918, and back time covering the period. The increase was re- ceived by the New Haven boys the week ending December 25th, 1919, and back time many weeks ago. General Chairman House is looking after us and it will no doubt soon be forthcoming. Bro. Walker, New Preston, off nearly three months on account of sickness, is much im- proved and expects to soon return to work. We will all be glad to see him back again. Miss Hamilton has been relieving him. G. R. Gustafson, Cert. 168, Div. 157. Danbury, Conn. D., L. & W. R. R., Div. 30. Bro. W. G. Ryan bid in agency Whitney Point, succeeded by Bro. John Barrett/ on first Marathon. We were all very sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Sparrow. He was in good standing of similar organizations to ours and had been on the road for many years as flagman. After losing an arm in an acci- dent at Apulia he went to Magnolia street tower, Syracuse, then under the jurisdiction of the' switchmen, later acquired b> our or- ganization, and was transferred to Brighton avenue later. Bro. Parley collected over $100.00 on his division and Bro. Hill and Hanwell as much on the Buffalo Division for the relief of Bro. Porgordazela of the Buffalo Division. The S. & V. Division should certainly be able to donate at least $50 to such a cause. There are many of the brothers to be heard from yet Bro. Mack, Scranton Division, has been working at Syracuse Yard owing to a short- age of men on this division. None of our men took any vacation in the so-called illegal strike of the switchmen. Several on the Scranton Division took French leave with them and it was next to impos- sible to have them reinstated. Am riot receiving the news items I should. Send them in, boys. It’s hard to keep a rec- ord of all the changes alone and you should each notify me of those in your immediate vicinity. Cert. 157. Scranton Division -y- Bro. parley presided at the meeting held in East Stroudsburg, March 26th, at 10 a. m., and explained several matters of Inter- est. Bro. Jos. Paradise of Scranton bid In sec- ond at Gravel Place. Bros. Nace and Hester attended a Masonic meeting at Scranton, March 29th ; also Bro. G. B. Hay, latter spending several days in Philadelphia, relieved by Bro. Hummel. Bro. O. H. Smith, second trick dispatcher has resumed at Bangor after spending sev- eral months South where the oranges grow. Brothers, put the nons wise who^ are so very much Interested in the passes,' tliat they better get cards and come to the meetings. They will no doubt then get the Information better than by asking for it on the tele- phone. Bro. Ward relieved Bro. Smith two weeks while off with the rheumatism. Bro. Heller says the trout ore beginning to jump. During the recent strike some of the boys on this division had to depend on speeders and a loose pusher engine now and then to get back and forth to work. Cert. 16. Missouri Pacific R. R., Div. 31. Omaha Division — Bbo. Walters, agent Baker, Kan., a mem- ber of the Order for 20 years, hurt recently while unloading freight, later developed pneumonia, causing his death. His wife and two small children have our sincere sympa- thy in their great bereavement. A very beautiful floral offering was sent for the funeral by the brothers of the East End. Bro. Ballance went to Baker temporarily. Bro. Stabler, second Huron, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Beattie. Arkansas Division, and Bro. Joice, third Leavenworth, while un- dergoing another operation, relieved by Bro Cooney. Digitized by Google

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642 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Irwin on his return from Old Mex- ico, took first Auburn, succeeded on second there by Sister Skaggs. Bro. Joe Staska has taken the agency ; Bro. Wickham, second, and Bro. Anderson, third Murry. Bro. Staten, Weeping Water, relieved 60 days to try out position In a bank there. Bro. Hoogland, agent Julian, was off a few days. Bros. Loyd and Herod have purchased bi- cycles. Bro. F. L. Campbell, agent Howe, has re- signed. f It is now Bro. Whitworth, agent Wyom- ing, and Bro. Simmons, third Stella. Keep up the good work, Bro. Dyer. Cbrt. 1877. Joplin Division— Bro. P. K. Lane, first Rich Hill, on a trip to Denver and Colorado, relieved by Bro. Gerald Roberts, and he on second by Bro. G. R. Corwin. Bro. R. R. Cumpton, now' with the D. & R. G., writes and sends his best regards to all his friends. Sister Ricca Eddlemon, of Hannon, who resigned May 1st., will retain membership and hold her insurance. This is the proper spirit, and We regret her leaving us. It is now Bro. C. M. Goddard, agent Arma. A bunch of operators and trainmen from around Pittsburg and Cornell are going to Manitoba next month on a fishing trip. Bro. Honey can tell you exactly how many miles it is there and back. If they leave any fish up there we will likely try our luck later on. Bro. B. C. Rullman is back in Nevada Re- lay. 4 p. m. to 12 midnight, after about two months in Hoisington Relay. Cert. 87. Baltimore & Ohio R. R., Div. 33. Chicago Division — Much has appeared in The Telegrapher during the past year relative to the fra- ternal section. Some desire it entirely abol- ished, w'hile others favor its retention. These items are not news to the local members ; however, it frequently happens that interest- ing items are read by members who a* one time worked here and are enjoyed by them.' Acting as correspondent, I desire to please all as much as possible and w'ould thank the brothers on the division for their opin- ion. Bro. M. Winans, Steamburg, N. Y.. Erie Railway, formerly on this division, would be pleased to hear from any of his old friends here. Bro. Markw'ood relieved bv Bro. Baldwin several days, due to sickness in his family. Bro. Cook, Deshler, off several days, due to his wife being in hospital, undergoing an operation. We hope for a very speedy recovery. Extras put on at "GC” Chicago several days during labor trouble. Bro. Ivoons bid in Republic agency, re- lieved by Bro. R. W. Miller, doing the wire work, and Relief Agent Shlotter doing the agent’s work. No agent-operators available. Watch the new men coming on the divi- sion. If they are not in good standing, make an effort to get them in. Also try to line up the non-telegraph agents at your stations. These positions are all in our schedule now and they should get in line. Bro. McCarty, on a trip home, relieved several days by Spitzer. Someone try and land the latter. The members should subscribe for “Labor,” published weekly, $1.00 a year, which also includes membership in the Plumb Plan League for one year. You will find out then what* Is going on in Wash- ington. Please send me any items that should br published in The Telegrapher. A write-up cannot be had unless someone assists in get- ting the news. “RN,” Cert. 2063. Cleveland Division — Our sick members are on the mend, but is soon as one is back someone else is tikes down, and wfhen a man or two is employed someone quits, making it almost impossible to get off a few days. Several good men who quit recently are getting better wages than when here. This division can use ten or fifteen good, steady men. as the company desires to open more offices. Pay ranges from 58c to 62%c per hour. Men with cards up to date will be given a hearty welcome. Bro. R. R. Gallagher, 504 Guardian Bldg. Cleveland, has formed an Operators’ Syndi- cate to protect our craft from swindlers in stock and bond buying. He has had a Ion? experience in the business and will gladly supply any information you want. Sharpers laying for our few extra dollars. In many cases get them, and all we receive in return is a worthless engraving. I wish to thank the members who re- mitted $1.00 to the flow'er fund, as it only has a surplus of 25c, and now is a good time for those w'ho have not yet contributed to do so. Bros. Frank and Will Hillyer wish thank the members for the spray sent their father’s funeral. The four members who have forgotten to pay their dues to June 30*are kindly re- quested to remit and help maintain the or- ganization that has done, and is still doing so much for our craft. Cwbt. 705. Connellsvillc Division — It is now Bros, and Sisters P. A shonce,* Gertrude Boyer, Ethel M. Stuck at*1 Digitized by v OQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 643 W’. E. Cupp. There are still a few nons re- maining we hope can soon be called brothers. We regret to learn of Sister F. Cummings’ serious illness. Bros. Drum and Gaumer, Connellsville and Hyndman, respectively, and Bro. Brown of Foley are trying out as dispatchers at Con- nellsville, and Bro. G. W. Himes, from Rock- wood. is relieving Bro. R. W. Curkran, third trick wire chief at Connellsville. Bro. Chas. Brady has returned to Johns- town, Pa., after an extensive pleasure trip in California. On the Connelsville division at present : Roses are red, violets are blue ; Good agencies are plentiful, good agents few. * Dispatchers are bidding on line positions on our division at present, and doing it legally, too. The life of a local chairman would be made far pleasanter if condemnation of his work would be withheld until carefdl investigation of it is made. The old adage : “You can’t please all,’’ applies to his work, and your own local offlcp can only offer as defense against criticism that he is trying his best to' settle all matters strictly in accordance with the rules of our agreement. When he ceases to act in this manner you are privileged to cast any old object against him. but he begs your careful consideration at all times and in all matters. Cert. 142. Chicago & Eastern III. R. R., Div. 34. Chicago Division — The back pay having all been received, the members should now look to their month- ly and Jiourly ratings. Our general chairman and assistants de- serve great credit for what they accomp- lished. Brothers, attend all the meetings you pos- . sibly can. That is the place to learn what is being done on the various districts and you will always learn something to your advan- tage. It might be you the next time. The agents and other employes in the depots were cpnsiderably harassed by the railroad patrons on account of the Chicago and Chicago Height’s freight and express embargo. Their salaries are surely earned. Will appreciate It greatly if you will send me some items each month. Received noth- ing at all this month. The proceedings of the Danville meeting will be published next month, so if you don't get to attend, look for it here. Being held the 25th and our items having to be in St. Louis on or before that date. I cannot get it in this month’s article. P. E. Hampton. dicates Increased interest in the most im- portant business .we are connected with. Less delinquents on the division than ever before at this time of the year. Still some will neg- lect their M. B. D. when nothing could Induce them to be a day behind with their premium on any other kind of life insurance. The M.. B. D. is run along strictly business lines, and if you die a day delinquent your bene- ficiaries los$ the insurance. Do not think because it is you, or because it is the O. R. T. that the limit can be stretched to cover your case. Two months is given in each term to pay thb assessment, and to extend it an- other day would lessen its effectiveness as a business proposition. Bro. A. E. Edwards, agent Booneville, is being relieved by Bro. J. E. Thompson on ac- count of his health, and Bro. F. J. Edwards, agent Earlham, relieved 90 days by Bro. Stanley. Bro. Sheldon bid in Kellogg third, and Bro. Christisen, Iowa City No. 2 bid in Atlantic second. Bro. H. V. Bartell, with the W. U. In Bos- ton, likes the R. I. and may come back. Bro. Ramsey, first West Liberty, has started a skunk farm as a side line in addi- tion to an apidry. We will take his word for It, when he says : ,“lt’s all lovely around the farm,” and will not insist upon a per- sonal inspection. Bro. Phil. Harkins refuses to do carpenter work on the farm for Bro. Wallace, as Mrs. WaHace will not allow anyone to chew to- bacco on the premises. Bro. Swan has been doing a double stunt for a few days on account of Mrs. Swan be- ing sick. He refused to help Bro. Wallace break his heifers to stand while being milked because Wallace wouldn’t buy his kicking cow. Bro. Balsbaugh is relieving Bro. Harless, Brooklyn second, on account Mrs. Harless being in poor health. Any who have not contributed to the flower fund, please send me 2$ cents. By having a flower fund, if any member or one of their family dies, we will immediately order floral offering, mail check for it, and not have to take up a collection on short notice. Mrs. Rhoades, mother of Bro. Rhoades, Brooklyn third, died a few days ago. Bro. Lcimback of Iowa City arranged for suitable flowers to be sent to the funeral. Bro. Rhoades has the sympathy of us all In his bereavement. If you are delinquent, do the right thing and pay up. H. N. Dutton, Local Chairman. C., R. I. & P. Ry., Div. 35. /coco Division — More than three times as many yearly cards on this division , than ever before, in- Colorado Division — In the death of Bro. N. O. Faison, for sev- eral years our local chairman, we lose one of our most loyal members. Digitized by Google

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044 Thk 1{\ii.road Telegrapher. Although he was handicapped by having tuberculosis in its last stages when he came to Colorado, he done his work so well that no station inspector ever complained, most of them praising it. He leaves a host of friends, besides his widow and little child, to mourn his demise. We all extend her our heartfelt sympathy in her bereavement Bro. Chostner, Seibert, who relieved Bro. Faison while he was in the hospital, re- mained at Arriba pending bulletin. Mrs. Faison wishes to thank the boys for the check for $11.25 received from Mr. Ole- sen, also for the beautiful floral piece and the kind and brotherly treatment accdkded her. It is now Bro. F. J. Fowler, Kanorado. Jeffers and Sipes are our only nons. Remem- ber this when the back pay checks finally get here. Our division number has been changed to 35. This will place our delegates to the next convention that much nearer the front, as the divisions are seated in numerical order. Div. Cor. Arkansas Division — Bro. Corley bid in third “MS” on account of the heavy work and long hours at “DV," and J. D. Turner, an old time non. bid in Pulaski third. Bro. A. R. Martin bid in second at Bige- low ; Bro. J. B. Smaim, second Biddle Yards ; Biro. T. M. Nelms, an old time faithful, third' Ola, and Bro. H. H. Clark, an overseas man, third Wheatley. Glad to see him back' with us. Cert. 2430. El Paso Division. Bro. Forsythe, second Dalhart. relieved a few days by Bro. Young. Bro. Minnis, Dal- hart, has qualified as a dispatcher and is now relieving the dispatchers. Boys, keep your eye on the call and help him out. Ros- coe is all right. New members : Scribner. Stratford ; Powers, Durham and Glenn Merrill. Mineola. “Non" Brier, Goodwell, should take the hint now and do the right thing. Bro. Mendenhall has gone to the W. U. We wish him success. Bro. Baker relieved Bro. Mortimer, Tyrone agency, who has embarked in the mercantile business. Good luck, “Mort." Bro. Foreman did not stay long at Ra- mona. * Bro. W. S. Johnson now has a gnod posi- tion at Nampa, Idaho. Helpers and others are again working on the wires in some offices, even “breaking in” on “real” operators. W$ hate to talk mean to them, but it is sometimes necessary to do it. Brothers, if you notice any of this around your office, run them out. Just as well stop this nuisance right now. Wish to thank Bros. Young and Foreman for contributing to this write-up. With your help, will try and keep this division repre- sented in future. Please drop me a few notes, so I can get them in the mall by the 20th. S. E. Mattics, L. C., Arlington. Kan. Louisiana Division — Bro. R. R. Ray, Fenter, has resigned apd returned home to old Tennessee, where he can be with home folk. We wish him much success. Bro. H. C. Brothers, of Ruston second, is a papa this month. Bro. I. M. Gibbons is back on this divi- sion. No more Longview Western Union for him. Bro. John Hayes. El Dorado, visited Lit- tle Rock, and Bpo. M. L. Loventhal, Calion. was a Tinsmaii visitor last month. Brothers, remember that next month we hold our big meeting in El Dorado. We want everyone to be present and enjoy the good eats. Cert. 3429. Illinois Central R. R., Div. 36. Members , Wisconsin Division — I certainly appreciate the beautiful and useful traveling bag which the boys recently presented me wit;h, not particularly for its intrinsic value, which was in no way small, but for the spirit in which it was done. It will come in mighty handy and always keep me reminded of my friends* I thank you. y Fraternally yours, Walter Kelly, Local Chairman. Wisconsin Division Notes — Our new schedule for which we have waited so long and patiently will show the position and rate per hour and outline all working conditions, which has been guess- work the past two years. The first efforts of the General Committee will be to straighten out the rate per hour inequalities, bringing up the low ones. Bro. Devaney, Bloomington, called home, owing to the serious illness of his father, was relieved by Bro. Goliwas, who had been relieving Bro. Bechley at La Salle, ''lookin’ ’em over” a few days in Chicago. Bro. Graham, after recovering from severe illness, was called. South by the illness of his father. Bro. Meziere, relieving. Helper Barclay, of Rutland, relieved Bro. Henning at Addison during his recent sick spell, and Bro. Friel is back at Plato Center after a long illness. Bro. Foucht, Rockford ticket office, while closing up the business of his father, whoe* death has already been mentioned, was re- lieved by Bro. Baker. C. B. & Q. Towvt Rockford. Digitized by Google

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The .Railroad Telegrapher. 645 I>oc&l Chairman Kelly sure had some sick Bpell. Severe attack of the flu followed by double pneumonia and yet he battled un- til he won, as usual. The boys began to wonder if the money they had raised to purchase a traveling' bag for him wouldn’t come in better to buy flowers. We’re cer- tainly glad you did win, Kell. The business formerly handled by an ex- clusive ticket agent at Mendota has been added to the duties of the three brothers there. We miss our old time friend Dispatcher Schillinger (FAS), who has gone into the brokerage and commission business at Free- port. We wish him success. The change brings C. S. Pack, a former old time mem- ber of the O. R. T., on first; makes Bro. Olsen a regular relief dispatcher ; Bro. Metz- ger, probably extra dispatcher. Bro. Dorsey, Plato Center, is now ^issist- apt agent at Rockford, vice B. F. Williams, who has been made supervising agent of the Iowa Division. Bro. Woods bid in Tonica agency ; Bro. Thompson, third El Paso ; Bro. Atkinson, Monroe second “CGW” tower, and Bro. Moore, “CGW” tower, bid in third Seward, vice Bro. Sibley, resigned. The boys at C. & N. tower are working at a great disadvantage, having to go such a distance back and forth to work under such conditions. Bro. Franks, of bill, recently looked over one of the C. & N. W. tower jobs, but went back home “wiser and happier.” j “Wanderlust,” Cert. 179. Chicago Terminal Division — Bro. Auld is back at Homewood, relieved by Bro. Searle, who spent the winter South. Bro. McCann is visiting his sister in St. Petersburg, Fla. Bro. Murphy, of Indianapolis, former Gen- eral Chairman Indiana Belt Dine, relieved Penn, thirty days. Bro. George Cassel is very much in pol- itics. Hope to see him be Mayor of Chicago one of these days. Bro. Esler is working very hard now and expects his back pay by Christmas. As Col. Cravins has a new' suit he won’t need any overalls. Bro. Smith was called to Dos Angeles, Cal., on account of the death of his mother. He has our deepest sympathy in his bereave- ment, also Bro. Wilson, second Broadview, who recently buried his grandmother at Beecher City. Keep after the nons, boys, and give them no rest until they line up. Thanks to Bro. Watsv for the news. Cert. 134 5. St. Louis Division — Bro. Lon Trigg, third, and Bro. McClel- land, agent Christopher, are among the lucky men who invested in oil stock, they are now receiving dividend checks. Hope to soon see them living off the dividends and riding in super sixes. Bro. I. P. Turner, second Christopher, bid in third Ballard Junction, and Bro. E. R. Sanders, second Illinois Junction. Bro. McCuan, second Benton, was off a few days, and Bro. S. G. Cemy recently re- turned from a trip over the Missouri Pa- cific. Boys, watch your cards. Don’t go de- linquent, but “tie intof* the nons and line them up. I have resigned Logan agency to go into other business. Wish to thapk all the broth- ers for their courtesy shown me during my twenty-one months' stay with them, and wish them all the best of luck. Also wish to thank Local Chairman Chance for his as- sistance. Although I am leaving the serv- ice. Still consider me a true-blue member of Division 36. Will be glad to receive a note from any of you at any time, as I will remain in Logan. Ill, I would like to see some one else take up the correspondence and boost our division along* Best wishes to all. J. C. K., Cert. 1606. C., B. & Q. R. R.f Div. 37. Relay Division — Chief Operator Crandall is back at “GO” after two months spent in California ; re- lieved by Bro.' Castle. Wire chiefs were moved up, putting Bro. Winchell on third. At the election of the Cost Club, Chicago, Bro. A. B. Coats was elected secretary and treasurer. It is now Bro. Clayton and Bro. Erickson, making “GO” solid, with the exception of Mr. Laker, who, we hope, will make good his promise to join shortly. There are very few nons left in the relay division, and we trust before this term expires to show a solid front with exception perhaps of Richards and Hull at Aurora. They don’t seem to realize what the O. R. T. has done for them. If there ever was a time that we should show a solid front, It is right now*. Bro. J. O. Castle and son just returned from an enjoyable vacation trip to Omaha, Hepburn, Stanton and Clarinda. Bro. W. E. Reynolds made a trip to Omaha recently in the interest of his tele- dot. He reports orders coming in fast and everybody pleased with It. We hope soon to see Bro. G. M. Zlnn back at “X” again. He has been severely 111 for several weeks, but is now reported out of danger. Digitized by L-ooQie

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646 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. A. B. Coats* and wife visited his brothers and sisters at St. Louis over Sun- day recently. Div. Cor. Beardstown Division — A very enthusiastic meeting was held in K. P. Hall, Whitehall, April 7th, attended by six brothers from the C. & A., and ten brothers and one sister from the Burling- ton ; a sure stick-together bunch, who see the* necessity of staying by our organization as never before. The Cummins-Esch bill was the main topic of the evening, and everyone present sensed the position it places railroad labor organ- izations In. The only trouble with the meet was the fact that we didn’t have time enough and only closed with six minutes to get trains out Bro. Thompson came nearly 200 miles to be present, and the fact that our older agents along the line were present shows the good these meetings are doing. Everyone had a good time, and we thank the brothers at Whitehall for their able assistance In making the meeting a success. Long live our protection, the O. R . T.l Bro. Middleton, second Chapin, was off a few days on account of the serious illness of his wife; Bros. Wilgus and Kell are back again at Centralla yard. It Is now Bros. V. L. Haiste, Adair ; O’Byme, Christopher ; L. E. Wegehof, extra, and Sister Van Matre, Kemper. Hurrah ! . ! ! We are indeed sorry to hear of the death of Bro. Postlewait’s only son, aged 4. " Bro. Post and family have. the heartfelt and sin- cere sympathy of the Beardstown Division members. * Sister Potts, Barrow, was off sight-seeing in St. Louis recently, Bro. McDowell doing relief work in Beardstown relay, relieved by Sister Hathaway, on Litchfield third. I understand a “non” at Litchfield is hav- ing trouble getting some Sunday overtime. "Ain't that some joy?" Wonder if he will call on the O. R. T.? I have been getting that Sunday overtime right along for some, of the brothers, but “nt*” on the "non.” Am sorry to report that on the afternoon of March 30th Bro. Jim Beddingfield’s home in Barrow burned to the ground. You have our sympathy, Bro. Jim. Sister Wilson is back again at 104 after a prolonged illness, relieved by Bro. Wegehof. Sister Weeks is relieving Bro. Teague, Block 104, while he relieves T. D. A. Haiste, Beardstown yard. Bro. Demge, second Block 104, is being relieved by a farmer “non” Our division number is now 37 instead of 130, and new certificate numbers will be Issued to each of you shortly. C. W. McConnell, L. C., Cert. 49. Galesburg Division, Quincy Branch — Bro. Tatfte, third Golden, is being re lieved by Bro. Swearingen. Bro. Flack, third Colchester, relieved by Bro. Garrison on account of sickness. Bro. Gookin, who relieved Straub, first Quincy switch, a week also relieved Bro. Harrington, third there, several days, and Bro. Waddill at Barstow one night ; then home for a few days. No news received from the north end. Thanks to Bro. Oliver for write-up from Peoria branch. H. L. Thompson, A. L. C., Cert 958. Galesburg Division, Peoria Branch — C. B. Parsons, farming near Panola, HI. relieved on Lewiston third by Extra Betts. Bro. Watkins, second Farmington, visited friends in Knoxville between trains recently. Bro. Fahnestock, Rushville, attending court at St. Louis, relieved by Bro. Swearingen, who later relieved Bro. Eakman, third Yates City, several nights while the latter was helping out in Galesburg yard. Bro. Hoskins, second Canton, is being re- lieved thirty days by Sister Pringle. Bro. Sammy Fleischer, agent Elmwood, who spent Easter with home folks at Farm- ington, was snowbound returning on No. 94 Monlay noon. It’s now Bros. Watkins, second Farming- ton, and Swearingen, extra, their first cards. Bro. Antrim, third Canton, visited his parents in Oak Hill recently. The wife and children of Bro. Sapplngton, agent St. David, are spending several weeks with her mother in Philadelphia: "Tom’* is doing his own “beanery work” to beat down the H. C. of boarding. A. A. Oliver, Cert. 3029. La Crosse Division — Bro. J. M. O’Brien, agent Hastings, off few days on acc&unt of the death of his daughter, relieved by Bro. Joe Frommelt. Bro. Plihal, third Crawford, Injured while pulling levers, relievel by Bro. Staben, also injured, relieved by R. C. Scholmeier, later by Bro. Rupp, • Scholmeier relieving Bro. Cullen, third East Winona. Bro. Foehringer. third Grand Crossing yard, relieved a few nights by Bro. S. W. Tucheck, second there, closed. Bro. Zube relieving Bro. Zepp, North Jet., relieved by Bro. Rupp, who later re- turned to dispatchers' office. Bro. Zepp re- lieving Bro. White, agent Grand Crossing few days on committee work and while he went over the division. Later Bro. Zepp went to Aurora Division to look over an agency, relieved by Bro. Rupp. Bro. J. F Tucheck, second North Jet, has taken a posi- tion at San Diego, Cal. Bro. Lynch, third Savanna Depot, on sh* list a few days relieved by Bro. Unangsi from Whitton. an<^ he by his wife. Digitized by tjOOQle

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Tiie Railroad Telegrapher. 647 Bro. Krueger, first South Jet., off a few days sick, relieved by Bro. Zuze. Our divi- sion now shows up 105 per cent strong, thanks to Bros. Hupp and White. Cert. 227. Brookfield Division — Since the adjustment pay due us has been paid we have received several applications. We have only a few nons left on this divi- sion now, but with the brothers' help we will get them shortly. Remember '"Wo card , no favors ” Brothers, also get busy on the delinquents on the west end. I can’t reach all of them. On the sick list a few days : Bro. Wilhoit, first Macon ; „ Bro. Dye, second Anabel, re- lieved by Bro. Hipkins, whQ later relieved Bro. Stevens, Palmyra Jet. second, while he relieved Bro. West, the agent there. Bro. Collins, agent Anabel, was off two days. Some of you boys operating on the west end send me your news. Any time before the 19th. AsS'T L. C.. Cert. 2160. St. Joe, Mo., Division — Our division number has been changed from 130 to 37, and new certificate num- bers will be assigned next June.* Bro. Ward, Payne second, relieved a few days by Bro. L. T. Barker, and Bro. Potter, Bartlett, by Byo. Pettit, of second there, while having a cinder removed from his eye. Bro. Wilson, Watson second, is now in the train service on the Omaha Division. We now have a balance of $47.50 on hand in the fforal fund. Someone £ave Bro. Bell agent Waldron, a Ford which he is putting in running order. Bro. Can avail, second Block 31. was a Kansas City and Bro. Baker, agent Fairfax, a St. Joe visitor recently. Brothers, if you are delinquent please pay up at once, and give the “non” a gentle reminder that it’s time for him to get an up-to-date. Thanks to Bro. Adamson for news. Come again. L. J. Millen, Coin, la. Burlington Division — Bro. H. M. Smith, operator Winfield, bid in Packwnod, Mr. McKay going to Washing- ton, la., as agent. Bro. W. E. Oiler relieved at Packwood while transfer was being made. Bro. Barnard, West Point. 111., has re- signel to go into business for himself. Here’s luck to you. Bro. Zook, second Tracey, also resigned, relievel by W. E. Mettler, a new man. He and Ed Daeble, third Tracey, an- other new man, both promise to join shortly. See that they don’t forget this. It is now Bro. E. G. Oiler at Mendon, 111. The men on regular jobs who are not carrying cards are getting mighty scarce. May they ever diminish. Bro. Smith wearing a smile that won't come off on account of a new girl at his house. We are System Division No. 35 now. The certificate numbers are being revised, and we will all have new ones about June 30, 1920. Boys, let us make 35 stand for what 130 has always stood for, “a square deal to dll." Go carefully and stay with you# organ- ization. If it Is not being handled accord- ing to your idea of the way it should be, get in the game and see that it Is handled that way, or if the present officials are not “hit- ting the ball” the way you think they should, change officials. We cannot get any place following after new organizations. Let’s make the O. R. T. "100 per cent O. R. T” then all “sit tight.” It will work out all right in time if we do our part and vote right this fall. Remember what our friends (?). the politicians, did to organized labor. It will he our turn next November to get even. J. F. Frain, Local Chairman, Cert. 6. Ottumwa Division — Bro. Stafford, Chariton, off a few days sick, was relieved by Bro. Conrad, who later relieved Bro. Killey, second there, on a trip to Minnesota. Bro. B. Heaton, Chillicothe, took In $he sights at Des Moines recently ; and Bro. Canton. Melrose, at Albia, latter relieved by Bro. Palmer. Bro. Greeley, Tower 307, relieved Sunday recently by Bro. Littleton, and he by Bro. Miller. Bro. Weber has returned from his oil dig- ging in Oklahoma. Our back pay roll has gone in and we should soon be getting our checks. We got our additional one cent per hours last check. Our division number has been changed from 130 to 37, which will give us a better seat at our conventions. We had to take a back seat heretofore, according to our numerical order. Our changed membership numbers will be shown on our next cards. We are now after a revision in rates for the boys who did not benefit by the last raise on account of not working Sundays. If there ever was a time we should all keep our dues paid up-to-date it Is now. The few who believe that the Order is a good thing but are letting their brother operators pay their dues should wake up, as the time is not a long way off when it will be only members who can work here, the same as is now the rule on D. & R. G. and some other roads. Cert. 223. Ores ton Division — Bro. A. L. Estes relieved Bro. Yarger, agent Rosendale, when he relieved Agent Jungquist, Pacific Jet., resigned to take bag- gage agency. Bros. Rose and Strohl, first Digitized by Google

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648 The R.ueroad Tei.egrapher. and second there, attended the Masons’ con- vention and made a pleasure trip to the Shin dig in Omaha and Lincoln. - Bro. Rose pur- chased a flivver. Bro. Wilber, third Co. Bluffs, relieved sev- eral nights by Bro. Kunze, who also re- lieved Bro. Yarbrough, second Glenwood, when he took his bride to Missouri to visit his panpts. Bro. Poindexter, relieved by Bro. Oswald on second Hastings, owing to sickness, and he on third there by Ryan, an old timer, who will no doubt soon join again. Prescott and Nodaway thirds closed, Bro. P. K. Jones from former took second/ Pres- cott, Bro. Shehan from latter not working. Bro. Moberly bid in third Balfour and Bro. Dinsmore, third Stanton. Several brothers have resigned to take up farming. No news received from anyone except Local Chairman Overmier. Slip me some notes, boys. No write-up last month, be- cause no one sent me any items. J. E. Pace, Cert. 1603. Omaha Division — Bro. Holmes. Walthill, succeeds Bro. Starkey, Louisville, who takes a similar position at St. Paul, Neb., on the Lincoln Division. “Bill” is one of our best members and we all wish him success. J. H. Howell goes to Goodwin agency. Laurel bulletin withdrawn as consolida- tion with M. & O. may stand. Operator’s position at Winnebago has been made per- manent. Bro. Cavender, Plattsmouth, while having operation performed on his throat,, was re- lieved by Bro. Jim Kimbal, w-ho later re- lieved Bro. Squires on second, relieving Bro. Moore, to attend Masonic Lodge in Omaha. Bro. Hawkins, Waverly, off indefinitely on account of sickness. Bro. Swanda is on first Gibson while Bro. White is trying out in the dispatchers’ office. Bro. Yocum, at Yutan, is right in the sand business now' since the new sand pit opened on cutoff. The blue denim is just the rig for an agent to handle cream, green hides, baggage, U. S. mail and all kinds of freight as we can’t buy many suits of anything else but overalls at our present wage ; get in line, boys. No news from the Oneill line this month. It is discouraging to try to have a w'rite-up without notes. I’ve been trying for over four years now to have something interesting in each month's Telegrapher, but get rather discouraged at times. Send me your items any time during the month. Every little one helps. Thanks to Bros. Cavender and Kimbal for the notes they sent in. II. L. Gilbert, Wann. Neb. Lincoln Division — Bro. G. E. Plotts, agent Hampton, Neb., appointed local chairman of this division, has landed B. C. Emerick, Seward first; Pete Helzer, and new man, D. E. Bates, since taking the position. It Is also Bro. Grogan at Emerald, landed by Bro. Hargill. Keep up the good work and help Bro. Plotts make this division 100 per cent. If there Is a non working at your station, or one near you, let him know that you know it, and that he is not entitled to any courtesies until he gets right. Bro. Starkey, Louisville, Neb., succeed* Woodruff, St. Paul agency, giving us another member on this division instead of a non. Bro. C. J. Plith, Saronville, takes David City agency. ^ Bro. Boyd, third York, resigned, relieved by Bro. Collier. Bro. King, third Grand Is- land, goes to the U. P. These boys seem to be finding working conditions better else- where. Bro. J. M. Starkam&n, Division 4, is on third “KY,” Lincoln. Bro. Van Gundy, second Murphy, was re- cently married. Congratulations. Bradshaw third closed several nights while Bro. Anderson relieved Bro. Plotts at Hampton and later relieved Mr. Miller at Seward on account of sickness. The boys at Milford doubled five days re- cently on account of sickness. Positions will now be bulletined on the first and the fifteenth of the month only. By having regu- lar days everyone will be sure and get a copy and will be looking for it. Haven’t received any notes from lines north of Aurora or the Alma-Stromsberr branch for months. Would like to hear from Hager. Loup City, Peer, Greeley Center and Ray Golden at Arcadia, who never notified us of the recent arrival of a baby girl st his home. Bro. Frank Houdersheldt, first Cobb, is passing around the smokes, the arrival of a fine girl being the cause. Loosen up with your news items, gentle- men, and let’s have a good write-up ea<* month. A. A. Canfield, Fairmont, Neb. Sterling Division- Will have several new members to report next month. Borne good brother help me get Harris at Haxtun, Colo., up-to-date again. Bro. J. C. Atwell is back on second An- gora after two weeks’ illness, relieved by Sister Gullett, of third there, our new mem- ber. Sister Henderson Is on second Angora; Bro. J. H. Harrold on first Guernsey and Bro. Chambers on second Guernsey. Bro. Don Kynion, agent Mina tare. Is going to- Washington. Our best wishes go with him. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 64!) Bro. F. E. Mathis, agent Smithfield, bid in Fleming, Colo., agency> vice Bro. Frederick ; Bro. E. E. Cleveland, recently re- turned from Germany with the 14th Divi- sion. bid In third Scotlpbluff. Former Bro. G. B. Hire, Bayard, back, again after three years in other business, took out a new card May 1st. Bro. H. J. Root, Bayard, is how employed at Gales- burg, 111. Bro. Niekum, Bayard, suggests that each one of us give the local chairman at May- wood, Neb., items of interest not later than the 15th of each month ; also start the next semi-annual period right by promptly remit- ting our division dues to Gen. Sec'y and Treas. Rogers at LaCrosse, WIs., and M. B. D. assessments to Grand Sec’y and Treas. Rawlins, Missouri State Life Bldg., St. Louis, Mo. The brothers may send"1 their dues to me if they prefer, but by remitting direct as heretofore noted you will get your new cards about a week sooner. They are al- ways delayed several days In my office before 1 can get them started again. We should now have an occasional meet- ing at different points, giving all the mem- bers an opportunity to attend. Every phoner should belong to our Order, The reasons therefor have been given so often that it is useless to repeat them. Ap- ply our effective motto, “No card, no favors ” to those who don’t seem inclined to join. Read the editorials in The Telegrapher, where matters vital to us are being reviewed completely and exhaustively ; everything concerning our welfare is being discussed there. I will be glad to have you send me any suggestions for the welfare of this divi- sion. Several have not sent me their 50c yet for the flower fund. Let this be a reminder for you to remit so we can have sufficient to meet our future needs. Now. that we have started, let’s not fall down on the job. Thanks to Bros. Temple, Angora, and Wiekum, Bayard, for items this month. Hope they will send some each month and that the other brothers will do likewise, and all get their Items to me by the 15th so they will be in time for the next month’s issue. F. A. Sense, L. C., Cert. 43. Alliance Division ( West End) — Bro. Shields, second Ardmore, is being re- lieved by Bro. C. D. Williams. Sister Moore, third Ardmore, has resigned since getting married. Sister Shaul bid in second Orella, relieved by Bro. Uhl, on th’ird Marsland, who was off a few days sick. Sister Mets, third Belmont, relieved a few days by Bro. Hobson, who later went to Lakeside on east end, relieved on second Prove by Sister Hobson. Bro. Jolly, agent Belmont, bid in third Broken Bow. Bro. Hyatt, second Crawford, called home owing to his father’s serious illness, Bro. Jerry Davis relieving. The recent snow storm was terrible, tying up the trains so some of the boys had to double for those who were sick, as it was impossible to get operators there to relieve them. Cert. 2578. Wymore Division — Bro. Harry Millen is back on his old posi- tion again at Tecumseh, Bro. J. H. Stewart transferred to McCook Division, owing to shortage of men there. Several positions closed here for that reason. Bro. Lewis held down Peru alone three weeks on account of the serious illness of Bro. Thomas’ father, being unable to get either a helper or an operator. It is now Bro. C. fe. Auman at Firth. We hope to have several more shortly. Don’t let the chance slip by to get a new member when a non shows up at your station, and if you have any delinquents get them to pay up and save our officers the extra work of mailing notices to them. A number of the brothers are still donat- ing from a half to an hour each day to the company in overtime, accommodating the public, for which they receive nothing. Do a good full eight hours’ work and then quit for the day. If unable to keep your work up, take the matter up with your superin- tendent, keeping a copy of your letter. The section men were recently put on a nine- hour day and their foremen make more money now than we receive for our eight hours and our donated work. Second trick at Sterling closed, account of falling off in business. All one-man or nine-hour positions should soon receive back pay for the meal hour worked during October and part of Novem- ber, 1918. Call the nons’ attention to the fact that this was secured b>* the O. R. T., and give them no rest until they join and help pay for these benefits. Remember “No card , no favors” . Cert. 842. Pere Marquette R. R.f Div. 39. Members Division 39 : — Our campaign for membership is progress- ing nicely ; many brothers are taking a per- sonal interest, and many letters are being re- ceived asking for the names of nons. This Is encouraging as it will develop strength for our division and hasten the Improve- ment in conditions we are all striving for. We now have more than 600 members and will have the 100 per cent before July 1st. Everyone Is being given an opportunity to co-operate with us. If any have not shown a desire to do their part by July 1st we Digitized by Google

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650 The Railroad Telegrapher. will inform you who they are by circular letter. The tie-up by the switchmen has delayed the adjustments we are handling, bht these and other matters will be taken care of in due time. Adjustments and increases pend- ing are now being considered by the Rail- road Labor Board and we can expect an award as promptly as is consistent with careful deliberation. The Pent water- Allegan and Big Rapids Division holds the banner for having first secured 100 per cent membership ; the Canadiap is lacking only one of being unanimous and the Petoskey has only four nons. The next issue of The Telegrapher will show several other divisions going "over the top." Let the good work continue and improvement will surely result. Nearly all of the back time due through overtime, and the errors that have been reported in incorrect rates have been paid. Every effort possible is being made to ex- pedite the distribution of the schedules, and they should soon reach you. With best wishes for a continuance of the good work being accomplished, I am Yours fraternally, R. M. Burr, General Chairman. Port Huron-Grand Rapids Division — In the March issue we- made special men- tion of first "BO" being a hard shell non, claiming to have lost the best job he ever had through actions of this organization, etc. We now find It was necessary for his su- perior to reprimand him for the poor serv- ice he was rendering. He took offense and sent in his resignation which was quickly accepted thus giving some worthy brother the opportunity of bidding in a good posi- tion. Agent Norton has been relieved by Relief Agent McLean at Lyons pending bids. This Is another man we tried to teach the bene- fits of our Order. Bro. Grant and Youngs, Elmdale, ard^ work- ing 12-hour shifts on account of Bro. Smith returning to his farm to plan for summer and fall harvestings. Bros. Cameron, McGrew and Sipes, Sag- Yard, are doing magnificent work assisting the local chairmen and General Committee in securing that 100 per cent membership. A new man hardly gets his feet planted un« der the operating desk until the former en- deavors to land him, and he’s a sure shot, and Bro. Sipes holds a close second. A few more on the various divisions with the same amount of "pep" would take a great amount of responsibility off the shoulders of the L. C., who, in a great many instances, is overburdened. The following members were transferred to Division 39 during March : From Divi- sion 17 : E. A. Ham and L. E. Wittee ; Divi- sion 19, T. E. Bellgraph ; Division 23, E. J. Howard; Division 71, H. R. Dennis, and Division 180, W. J. Rooney. Division 3$ gives them each a hearty welcome. Cbbt. 224. Saginaw Yard — We are now 100 per cent O. R. T., and glad to make this good report. Bros. Haight, Sipes and Tubbs are all on the job at the old stand, and our brothers at "GO” are pounding away every day. Same old story, which toas turned to music. So they must be pretty well contented. Bro. Cameron writes from McGrew that he is feeling fine since returning from his sick spell. Bros. Woidgka, Meyers and Morgan are still at Mershon. The latter ha* just returned to work, having been on the sick list some time, and Bro. Meyers is now off, sick. Sec’y and Treas. Neff reports a heavy in- crease of members with 100 per cent in sight. Brace up. boys, and grab every non you hear of. Write to them, talk to them and pound O. R. T. into them over the wire or any other old way you can. After they get lined up once they will thank you for it Let us hear from each division of the old P. M. in the Journal. Division 39 lodes pretty lonesome sometimes. And at other times things brighten up. Let us keep her shining at all times. Cert. 855. Toledo- Saginaw Division — Bro. D. A. Lehman bid in second Bay City ticket office; Sister Julia Potter, Jarvis, goes to first, and Sister Mary Candelina, of N. Y. C., to second Flint passenger depot Bro. A. V. Barber bid in first Northville, vice Stevens, resigned. Latter now wants his job back, but he better get a card first as we are 99 per cent strong on this divi- sion, delinquents all paid up but one who will remit soon. The only non on this division, formerly on Pt. Huron-Grand Rapids divi- sion, carried an up-to-date one time ate wkok months . His present position should have been included in the interpretation of No. 8- but his attitude toward our organisation pre- cluded our making any special effort to do so When he begged the chief dispatcher recently to get him an increase he was told to write the latter about it and he would refer the letter to the superintendent. Bro. H. R. Dennis, of the M. & St L~ Wd in second Wixocu. Bro. M. D. Ferry, agent Otisville, his * new car. Some of the boys on the Foster!* branch claim the village bought it for him sc lie could keep up with the fire depart®#1 he recently organized, but from all reports be is using it for a fish cart. Digitized by tsOOQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 651 We now have a new general superinten- dent and a new superintendent on this divi- sion. Let’s show them that G. R; T. men give the best service. Demonstrate to them plainly that a man who won’t join his own labor organization hasn't enough brains, as our former Director General said, to deserve any consideration. Be courteous in your conversation on the phones and with the public. Use enough energy around your of- fices to keep them neat in appearance. , Cert. 928. Boston and Maine R. R#, Div. 41. 'About fifty members were resent at the daylight, and 125 members at the evening meeting In the American House, March 27th. Chairman Bode explained the method of procedure In the wage negotiations necessary under the present law as the members seem to be getting restless because the wage nego- tiations are proceeding so slowly. A resolu- tion offered by Bro. Potter, requesting our President to use every means in his power to hurry action on this matter at Washing- ton, was passed unanimously. The members favored publishing a labor newspaper in Boston, and Chairman Bode suggested that they all subscribe for " Labor published in Washington under the auspices of the 17 railroad organizations, and requested each member to read his Teleg- rapher very carefully. The sentiments expressed In regard to the political situation were that all candidates for public office who are enemies of labor must be defeated. Bro. Jones asked every member to be sure and vote in the prim- aries, and try to prevent anti-labor men from even being nominated. Assistant Chairman Clifton made an in- teresting report of a conference of the or- ganization chairmen he attended, at which President Hustis, General Manager Pollock and Assistant General Manager Slader of the B. & M. were present. President Hustis as- sured the chairmen of the various orgari- ixations that hereafter there would be no delay in settling grievances, and that they all should be settled with the division super- intendents who sholud be able to do this to the satisfaction of all concerned instead of appealing them to higher officials. Mr. Hus- tis expects to meet the chairmen of the various organizations at least once a month hereafter. Several members expressed a desire that all temporary vacancies in the station and telegraph service be posted for bids, the same as the tower service. , A motion was made and carried unani- mously at the daylight meeting favoring a six-day week with the same pay as at pres- ent. Chairman Bode stated that hereafter divi- sion meetings would be held at least once a month, the date to be stated later. ^o notes received this month from outside division. S. Goodwin, Cert. 408. Erie Railroad, Div. 42. Susquchanne Division- 'sro. W. E. Thomas, third 5th St. Tower, Elmira, who recently injured his arm han- dling levers, not yet able to resume his duties, was working as extra switchman in . Elmira yard, previous to the switchman’s controversy. He extends his sincere appre- ciation to all wlio contributed to the fund for his relief, assisting him at a time Tyhen he was entirely out of funds and at a very heavy expense, due to Illness in his family. We extend to the Elmira switchmen and other yard forces our appreciation of their liberal contribution to this fund. The Employment Bureau, established at headquarters, will undoubtedly prove a great success. As soon as the regional office assignments of Cornell operators are completed, will give you a line-up. There will be several vacan- cies in “RF” as some of the boys there bid in positions in “VF. ” The new wage board has been confirmed by the Senate and is now in working order. No doubt we will soon get a decision on our wage matters which have been badly delayed. I have been away several weeks adjusting importat matters on the system at many points, and on my return found enough mail to keep me busy for a month. Bro. Derrig hap resigned as division correspondent, be- cause the boys have not assisted him in col- lecting items for the write-up. I want some brother to volunteer to serve in this capac- ity as It is absolutely Impossible for me to handle it with my work as general and local chairman and work a trick at the same time. I am glad to do all I can, but there Is a limit. If you expect your business to be handled right and get results, some of you on this and the Tioga Division will have to look after the write-up. E. J. Hesser, General Chairman. Marion Division- Brothers, we should get in touch with each other, learn what is going on, and take more interest in our own organization affairs. Be- ing thus posted wre will be in a better posi- tion to know what is needed. If you have a note send it to your chairman. If every- one will do this we will progress. Bro. Harvey at "HN” Tower, thoroughly believ- ing this, has become quite a “booster.” Hope he can Inoculate a few others with the bac- teria of his solidifying energy. Bro. Wherry, “HN” Tower, badly shaken up in an accident recently, is mending slow- Digitized by Google

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The Raujioad Telegrapher. I! 52 ly ; also Bro. J. A. Burris, on the sick list a short time. There have been a number or changes in agencies, several agents being promoted to the official department. Old "RE” Tower is no more. The opera- tors now occupying the west end of depot. Brp. Smith. "MJ” Tower, will soon be pull- ing In the big fish. Likewise Bro. O. L. Mosher, of Loiters, who spends most of his spare time digging worms. Brothers, don’t look up any good ideas you may have in your little medicine chest. Pass them out. Don’t growl because you think things are not going Just right, but help us to organize and then see that we stay organized. Tour local chairman is going to make a trip shortly to his farm in Shenango County, N. Y., preparatory to-moving there In 1921, where, he says, all the brothers will be wel- come to a good square meal at his sound table at any time, and the best 'will be none too good for you. We are sure old "AX” means what he says. Cert. 1826. Canadian National Rys., Div. 43. Pacific District — Relief Dispatcher F. T. Withley has se- cured the position as operator on Kamloops Rub. work train. W. Hy. Pickering, who relieved Agent Fraser, Lucerne, on holidays, is now reliev- ing Agent McLeod at Ashcroft, B. C., and Agent Jarvis, Blue River, away, is being re- fteved by Bro. Pake, second. Pake and he by Bro. Heron, relieved by O’Brien, a new man. Lineman Welbourne, Lucerne, is being re- lieved by Lineman Smith, a new man, and Rupt. Nelson by R. King. Bro. Thompson, from Boston Bay, visited Kamloops for a few days recently. Wish some of the other brothers would send in some notes. Cert. 865. Central R. R. of New Jersey, Div. 45. Central Division — Bro. Lance, who recently lost his dwelling at Hampton, is being relieved by Block Switchman Kiley. now on third Bay Way. We extend our sympathy to Bro. Lance. Bro. McCarthy, yardmaster Hampton, was compelled to work first there recently dur- ing the severe sleet storm, when the tele- phone was in trouble, no telegraph operator being available. Chief Dispatcher Campbell has placed students on this line at "PR” High Bridge and Annandale. We congratulate the dispatcher who will not allow courtship conversations on the train dispatchers circuit, and back him in his efforts to make this a 100 per cent standard railroad. Our schedule rates for small class station? is now 48 cents an heur, the lowest rate in the tower service is 48 cents an hour. Bro. Schroder bid In second Phillpls Street and Olin P. Seals, second Broadway Tower. The latter was on the sick list several days. The brothers who took out Liberty Bonds with the Railroad Administration have ali received them. Bro. Jack Riley, helper White House freight and passengef station, attended t he Fifth Avenue parade in New York on St. Patrick's day. Bro.. Lawrence, second Lanes Crossing, a recent Elizabeth visitor, was on the sick list several day®* Dispatcher Harry Compton is down with scarlet fever, and Bro. J. R. Conover with the measles. Hours have been changed at several sta- tions and towers on division, due to the day- light saving law. Bro. Walter Samson, "E” Port, has gone into the real estate and coal business. Bro. McKelvey. Mauch Chunk, was a re- cent "JC” visitor. Bro. Farrell, "JC,” acted as engineer re- cently on the Swan Special, Jersey City to Arlington Ave. The shortage of towermen gave some of the old brothers a chance to come back to the Jersey Central from other roads. Bro. J. T. Dockerty, first Cranford J«- has been assigned to other duties. Local Chairman Morariety has recovered from an attack of influenza and resumed on third Van Nostrand Tower. Bro. Jack Murtah, third Dunellen, will pitch for the Springfield Club of the Ne* England League this coming season. Southern Division — Bro. V. E. Peterson relieved Chief Dis- patcher Layer two weeks recently. Relief Agent Bro. Blackman is now at Freehold freight station, vice S. L. Bennett who died April 2nd. Bro. D. E. Lewis is now on second Bridge- ton, succeeded on third Red Bank by Bro Louis Herring, assistant agent Eatontowp. I thank Bros. Wainscott and Tilton tor the notes sent me froih their respective divi- sions. "WG” or "MC,” how abqut your note? from Mauch Chunk. "EC," Cert. 33. Southern Pacific Ry., Div. 53. In order that you may ascertain whether or not you are receiving the full benefit of interpretation No. 8 I am giving below a copy of a decision, as rendered by Wage Board No. 3, on a case submitted by tW* office, and a general outline as to the method of applying It: "In determining the basic rate in January 1st, 1918, upon which to apply tk? increases accruing under Supplement No. L Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 653 to General Order No. 27, all pay allowed for regularly assigned service and service per- formed in excess thereof on Sundays and on holidays, within the spread of the week-day assignment, not including emergency calls or extra service as described in decision to Question 1, Interpretation No. 8 to Supple- ment No. 13, to General Order No. 27, shall be added and considered a part of the month- ly rates, using thp entire year of 1918 as a basis.’ * Example No. 1. s First trick Santa Barbara, assigned week day, hours 8 a. m. to 4 p. m., assigned Sun- day and holiday hours same, monthly salary as shown in wage scale for calendar work- ing day month under 1917 agreement. Month of January, 1918, consisted of 26 week days, four Sundays and one holiday (January lot). Computed as follows : 26 week days.., 1110.00 1 holiday, January 1st 4.32 1 Sunday, January 6th v 4.32 1 Sunday, January 13th 4.32 1 Sunday, January 20th 4.32 1 Sunday, January 27th 4.32 Total for month... $131.60 Same procedure should be followed out for each month of the' entire year, then add the earnings for each month to secure the total earnings for the year. Divide total earnings for year by 306 days, divide results by 8 hours, then add 15 cents per hour which will give you new rate of pay under Interpreta- tion No. 8. Example No. 2. Second trick Lodi, assigned week day. hours 4 p. m. to 12 midnight. Assigned Sun- days and holidays, hours 4 p. m. to 8 p. m., salary $100.00 Month of January computed as follows : 26 working days $100.00 Holiday, January 1st. 4 hours at 48c 1.92 Sunday, January 6 th, 4 p. m. to 8 p. m., reg. assignment, 4 hours at 48c 1<92 Held in excess of assignment 3 hours, at 48c 1-44 Sunday, January 13th, 4 p. m. to 88 p. m., reg. assignment, 4 hours at 48c 1 02 Held in excess of assignment 1 , hour at 48c .48 Sunday, January 20th, 4 p. m. to 8 p. m., assignment, 4 hours at 48c 8 p. m. to 12 midnight, 4 hours at 48c 1 Sunday, ‘January' 27th. 4 p. m. to 8 p. m., 4 hours at 48c 1 '.'2 Total $113.44 Figure each month of year and proceed as in example No. 1. On account of the varied conditions at different stations it is impossible to set forth examples or issue a circular covering all propositions that may come up, but the foregoing is a general outline of method to be followed. New Year's, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas are the only holidays to be taken in consideration. To Arrive at the new rate use the 1917 agreement and the payroll for the year 1918, take the time worked on Sundays and holi- days and figure what you earned under the provisions of that agreement, ignoring Gen- eral Order 27 and Supplement No. 18. You will find a copy of Interpretation No. 8 on page 1207 in the September copy of The Railroad Telegrapher. A. M. Hammond,' Gen’l Sec’y and Treas. Sacramento Division — Sister Edna Aske and her mother, Sister Adams of Fulda, are visiting friends at Los Angeles. Signal Maintainer Johnson, of Cisco, re- cently captured a supposed bandit but after guarding him all night he had to release him as he proved to be the wrong man. Bro. J. A. Riley relieved Local Chairman Wilson while he was in San Francisco. Later Bro. Wilson relieved. Agent Flynn. Newcastle, while the latter was convalescing from an operation for appendicitis, relieved at Truckee by N. G. Jones, the “non getter” recently transferred from Tucson Division and appointed assistant local chairman. Bro. J. A. Qerninger transferred from Di- vision 31 is now agent at Yuba City. Bro. L. B. Cecil, from Tucson Division who went to second Smart pending bulletin later relieved Bro. Mathison on third there when latter bid in third Cisco. Bro. B. S. Demmick, of Division 53, is reported deceased but particulars are un- obtainable. We extend sincere sympathy to the bereaved widow in her hour of sorrow. Bro. Wolen, who relieved Agent Collins at Floriston several weeks, later relieved Bro. Knott there while* on a trip to Los Angeles and then relieved Bro. Hector, second Truckee. Understand a dispatcher’s telephone will shortly be installed in the Snowshed dis- tricts. Bro. Brewer has been reinstated as eighth telegrapher in “H” Sacramento. When the position was recently abolished, and Bro. Brewer tried to bump the construction com- pany’s agent at Colusa, Supt. Brennan de- cided that it was an appointive -agency. This is now being thrashed out with the man- agement. You boys in “H” kindly keep me posted on changes there; call “NG.” Won- Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. t>54 der what has become of our Valley cor- respondent, Bro. G. R. Idle, at Gridley? Have seen nothing from him in several months. Bro. Geo. Clarke, agent Durham, lost his wife March 23rd, and the sympathy of the division is extended to him In his sad be- reavement Beautiful floral decorations were furnished for the funeral. Local Chairman Wilson, Bro. Kast, at Chico, and others sug- gest that action be taken at the several meetings soon to be called on the division to start a floral fund, which our preset by- laws do not provide for. The cost would be only a trifle to each member. Bros. James Shannon and C. Sprok of Woodland have been transferred to the Tow- „ ermen'sf Division. Andrew M. Lakey, Mrs. L. B. Jacobs, F. H. Jacobs and W. E. Denny, now out of the service, have been dropped from the mem- bership roll ; also the following for non- payment of dues and assessments : T. 6. Rabom, Geo. A. Munson, of Champion ; A. T. Johnson, agent Lincoln; W. H. Hancock, agent Arbuckle, and Chas. Coppin, staff op- erator Blue Canon Junction. Every effort should be made to get these parties in line again, as they are receiving the benefits of increased schedules of pay, which they, are not helping to support. While some of these ex-members claim they can't afford the ex- pense, the truth is they can’t afford not to pay them. Chief Clerk Buck Reeves, a favorite with nil operators, we understand, has said that he thinks far more of a man who carries an up to date than a “slacker.” Get in line and show your colors. In spite of repeated efforts, we And it very difficult to get desirable notes, especi- ally from the valley. If you appreciate a write-up of your division, wffiich we know you do, please get your items to Chairman Wilson at Truckee by the 18th. Anyone having first-class old-style “bugs” communicate with the undersigned. Have calls for tw’o which must be in good shape and reasonable price. Mystic Station closed, owing to the short- age of operators, but has been bid In by Bro. Kendrick, first Smart, who now returns to his old stamping grounds, where the hunting is fine and the fishing better. There are entirely too many nons on this division. Do your duty, brothers, and help line them up. E. T. Nickel, Cert. 1215, Truckee, Cal. Los Angeles Division — A splendidly attended meeting was held in Labor Temple, Los Angeles, recently, when the various interpretations affecting Supple- ment 8 to General Order 27 were amply cov- ered, and no one had reason to leave with- out a knowledge as to figuring back pay. General Chairman Cull and Local Chairman Meador touched upon those matters vitally interesting to the membership, and Bro. Mc- Gee, local chairman Salt Lake Line, held the attention of the forty In attendance dur- ing his brief talk. It is with regret that we note the passing of Bro. .Geo. Parr’s mother on March 25th after a fourth attack of influenza. Bro. Parr’s wife and children later visited rela- tives, former Lineman G. C. Keliher and family at Miami, Ariz. Bro. Parr was re- cently elected school trustee and appointed % deputy county clerk and deputy sheriff of Glamis vicinity. Bro. Adams has returned to second Niland after several weeks’ absence. Bro. Nichols, agent El Casco, visiting with relatives, wras relieved by Bro. Chas. Van Orsdale, and he later by Bro. A. G. Parker, formerly of Texas. Bro. Rowe, second Redlands Jet, has gone to “NG” Los Angeles. Bro. Baumgardner relieved Bro. Snyder on second Glamis. Bro. McCord, agent there, wants to sell his Marion-Handley. His move into th^ agent’s house makes one short foi telegraphers. Former tele'graphers at Glamis will be interested ' to learn that the “Hermit of the Mesquite Diggins,’’ old John Reieh- ling, still makes' his rounds. The application of Interpretation No. *$ will break up practically all our old dif- ferentials, and an entire newT wage scale will have to be negotiated to adjust these diffi- culties. Every member but one on this division has paid the 1919 special assessment of |5. Our members paid less dues last year than any other organization on the system, and secured at least as much in concessions. Let’s make it unanimous. The settlement of returning the “consoli- dation” stations to corporate control brought up another brain teaser as to the disposition of the personnel. We tried to be fair to every man In* the service In those stations and in the others as well, so the schedule committee was asked to rule. They unani- mously decided that where a station wa3 consolidated and the incumbent of one of our positions elected to remain in it through consolidation, he would automatically remain on the job when the consolidafoon was dis- solved. HowreveT. if he had used his seni- ority rights to bid away from a unified post tion, such position would be subject to bul- letin when the segregation occurred. Bro. Gannon, Portland Division, has trans- ferred to this division, and while the trans- fer clause of our agreement is extremely un- popular to the members of this division, s* long as it remains in the contract it will have to be observed as a part of our law, to which Bro. Gannon conformed in every particular, and his desire to transfer was concurred in by the superintendent’s office and the local board before being confirmed. Digitized by Google

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The K.ulkoad Teleukai'Hkr. 655 Bro. Preston, also of Portland Division, has transferred to Southern California on ac- count of his wife's health. After working in “NG” Los Angeles a few days, he relieved Bro. Phegley at Burbank, who went to Los Alamitos during the temporary indisposition of Bro. Taylor, who we would like to sea gain an early recovery. Some organizations have increased their initiation fees one dollar and are entedng the applicant’s name for a one year’s ^ib- scrlption to the Plumb Plan’s official organ, “Labor.” No loyal member of organized labor who had ever read this publication would object to paying $1.00 a year for it, and it Is disappointing, to say the least, to hear some railroad men say they have never read it. A brakeman who recently ap- proached the writer, endeavoring to sell a new film company's stock, admitted that he was not a subscribed to “Labor/* ^ Thanks to Bros. Dickinson. Parr, Meador. Wright and Brannon for the foregoing. E. L. Burroughs, Cert. 704. Coast Division — It is with deep regret and sorrow that we report the death of the wife of Bro. C. A. Stone, agent Palo Altb. Mrs. Stone was loved and respected by all who knew her. Bro. Stone gratefully acknowledges and ap- preciates the kind expressions of sympathy extended to him by his good friends and brothers of Division 63. Bro. Kilgore, confined to his home with a badly broken ankle, is being relieved by Bro. Carpenter on third Gilroy. Bro. Hudson, agent Sargent, is visiting his old home in Georgia, relieved by Bro. Bunny. Bro. G. E. Darrow, fourth Tracy, wishes to trade to the Co&st Division. Seniority equal to about twelve years on the Coast. If Interested, write him. Cert. 1876. San Joaquin District — Our picnic meeting, February 15th, at Woodford, was attended by 24 brothers. There were 13 ladies present who helped to make the outing a success, particularly in serving the lunch at 3 :30 p. m. General Chairman Cull, G. S. & T. Ham: mond and Local Chairman Cartt gave inter- esting lectures and Information relative to pay increases, etc. Meeting adjourned at 4 :30 p. m. Bro. T. N. McCandless is back on third Mojave, vice Bro. Trickey to sixth Mojave. Bro. McCandless is also back after an oper- ation on his stomach in the hospital. Bro. J. L. Reynolds is carrying his arm in a sling, having fallen asleep while driving his car in the mountains. Bro. Cartt reports the “mimeograph fund” money coming in very slow. The letter started at Fresno was lost before it got to Selma; one started at Coalinga never heard from, and very little coming In on the letter from the Saugus side. If you want the news, please get this busy. It is now Bros. Emmons,' agent Fresno ; Fitzpatrick, agent Huron ; Rich, operator Caliente, and F. S. Johnson, Tehachapi. Let’s get in the few other new men and make this a record year. Bro. V. L. Underwood appointed traveling freight and passenger agent, headquarters Bakersfield, relieved by Bro. Black at Selma agency. * Bro. Hains relieved Assistant Chief Clerk Morgan, superintendent’s office Bakersfield, several days. I Bro. Fry, Gosher Jet., relieved by Bro. C. R. Bauman, transferred from Division 36. Bro. Arnold, Division No. Ill, also trans*. f erred to Division 53 recently. Bro. Rich, from Cameron, relieved Bro. Love at Rowen. Bro. Day, on Saugus side, relieved in “DS” Bakersfield by Dispatcher McLain from Oak- land Pier. Bro. Love, second Rosamond, took three weeks off when his big boy arrived Febru- ary 29th. Remodeling of *‘K’’ Bakersfield completed. With six new generators and other first- class new equipment, makes it one of the most modern offices on the system. Mojave office is also to be made as up to date as “K.” Bro. George Hers, with I. C. S. at San Diego four years, was once manager at Bakersfield. It is rumored that the Santa Fe will ex- tend its line from Porterville, intersecting the S. P. at Ducor, which will make Famoso and on to Bakersfield busy jobs. Bro. Bower, third Famoso, who recently purchased a new five-passenger Ford tour- ing car, is being relieved by Bro. Nunn. Bro. Etherton, agent Famoso, has pur- chased an orange grove near Exeter. On account of the government restrictions, the printing of “Assignments,” “In Memori- ams,” “Cards of Thanks” and “Vacations” has been discontinued, and Bro. Rawlins re- quests that births, marriages and deaths be written on separate sheets in order to insure prompt attention and insertion in the “Per- sonal Mention” column. Please let me have your notes in time, so I can get them to St. Louis before the 25th of each month. Ray McCuiston, Cert. 1226. Stockton District — Bro. Anthony, Elk Grove, is being relieved 60 days by Bro. Applescow. Bro. Hislop, second “KN” Stockton, acci- dentally sawed off the end of his thumb sev- eral days ago. Dispatcher Shutt has transferred to Los Angeles Division. Digitized by C-ooQle

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656 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Beard is now running a bakery and restaurant in Stockton. Remember him when you have business in that metropolis. Bro. AlliBon and Bro. Crowther assisted in rescuing a goodly sized portion of cheese during the fire which destroyed the Federal Building and large department store at Lathrop recently. It is with great personal pleasure that I can now say Bro. Costello is working third Tracy. Bro. R. E. Loomis, formerly third Pat- terson, now with the W. U. at Santa Bar- bara. visited friends at Patterson and Tracy recently. # # Bro. M. L. James is now with the Western Union at Tucson, Ariz. Bro. Leh of this division transferred rights and positidns with Bro. Garnett of the Salt Lake Division. Latter now on third Mo- desto, extra. Bro. Knightly, agent Kerman, on six months’ leave of absence on account of kid- ney trouble, relieved by Bro. Faber ; later on two months’ leave to work summer job with Y. V. R. R. as agent at Ei Portal, re- lieved by Bro. Perkins. Sacramento Division, loaned this division to do relief agency work. Bro. Marlin is back at Cerenes after an enjoyable trip to Florida. While there he took a flyer to Havana, and says liquid re- freshment still tastes the same. Bro. Beatty, second Merced, accompanied * the body of his father East for burial, re- lieved by Bro. Casell, setond Newman. Bro. Gordon back to Farmington agency after a year’s leave, released Bro. Baughman, sec- ond Newman. Several new men on the division lately on whom I have been unable to get a line. All the brothers should make it their first duty to ascertain whether or not a new man car- ries a card on his arrival. Keep after them, boys, in a respectful but forceful manner and let’s keep old Stockton Division as close to 100 per cent as we possibly can. We have good officials in our Order from top to bottom, and now is the time for us all to stand shoulder to shoulder while the heads of the railroad organizations are endeavoring to get our schedules adjusted to the cost of living, and show them that we are behind them solidly in what they may wish to do. "DF,” Cert. 624. Tucson Division , West End — Bro. Kean relieved Bro. Strout on Mari- copa first when he took Lordsburg third, and Bro. Barnwell, Yuma second, relieved by Operator Bostick, recently returned from government service in Siberia. Bro. Clarke, third Dome, on sick list, re- lieved by McWilliams, a new man from Tucson superintendent’s office, and Sister Weller relieved Sister McEvoy. second Mari- copa, who relieved Bro. Guy Weathersby, Yuma third, account Illness. Tucson Division, Bast End— Bro. MaLoney returned to Benson, reliev- ing Bro. Ehy, who relieved Bro. Baker, sec- ond there, who opened eighth Tucson. Bro. Hicks, Mescal, off ten days with the "flu,” relieved by Bro. Francis, from “UU.” la#r relieved by Bro. Weller. Bro. Wall, a new man from the Southern, relieved Bro. Pixley, second Vail, on 90 days’ leave, and accepted the "ink job" In dis- patcher’s office, Tucson. Sister Weller relieved Bro. King, second Polvo, ill with the "flu” several days. Bro. Weiler relieved Bro. Morrison, thirl Bowie, on sick leave. Sister C. M. Smith relieved at San Simon third by Bro. Harless, a new man, who later relieved Bro. Pritchett, first Wilcox, who re- lieved Agent Brinley. Bro. Clifford relieving Bro. Woodside, sec- ond Separ, account sickness. I wish to thdnk Bro. Cates and Sister Me- Evoy for notes. Sister Weiler is relieving me on account sickness. Kathryn B. Morrison, Box 44, Benson, Arizona. Salt Lake Division — Labor and farmers have united and started the greatest political campaign ever waged by an organized body to defeat their com- mon enemies and elect friends, from the of- fice of president down. We must forget old line politics and stand together, voting for the man, regardless of his political affilia- tions. If not already a subscriber, send one dollar today to Treasurer Plumb Plan League, Machinists’ Building. Washington. D. C.. for one year’s subscription to ** Labor!' a weekly newspaper only one year old and lias the largest circulation of any labor paper in the world. It is backed and en- dorsed by all labor organizations and gtves the latest authentic news on wage and sched- ule movements and a record of the actions of Congress and the Senate and other publi' officials. You do not get the facts from the daily press. The lists of nons and delinquents on this division are much larger than they shouB be, and we are anxious to reduce them v rapidly as possible. Any of the brothers or sisters who will help' us, will gladly b* furnished a copy of these lists; if you don’t know the location of these hindrances to our advancement. Perhaps you have some of both classes right in the office with you, or on either side of you. Try, and if you fad such to be the case, don’t wait for any fur- ther notice, but get busy on ^hem at owe Some of the delinquents, in addition to be- ing behind In their dues, also owe the special assessment of $5.00. Some of tkf )igitized by Google I

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 657 non* have been here only a few months; others for 20 to 30 years. These latter are the ones to use your strongest arguments on. Don’t forget that “No card , no favors” is one of them, and probably the most ef- fective. B. L. Clem, Cert. 1604, Pernley, Nevada. Northern Pacific R. R., Div. 54. Tacoma Division — It is with deep regret that I announce the death, recently, from the Effects of “sleeping sickness,” of our beloved Bro. R. B. Goodwin, agent Lebam. His dear ones left behind have our heartfelt sympathy. Mrs. GoodWin wishes to* extend, through these columns, her sincerest thanks for the kindness and Interest shown her in her be- reavement. Conspicuous among the floral offerings at the funeral was the beautiful wreath from the O. R. T. Bro. Goodwin did not die insane, as was at first rumored, nor was he at any time insane, but was sent to the Western State Hospital at Fort Steila- coom through the error of a South bend doctor, which was emphatically declared to be the case by doctors who attended him at this institution. On account of his serious condition, and in view of the fact that this hospital also had a very modern and well- equipped medical service, it was deemed best not to again move him. Sympathy is also extended to Bro. Ritchie. Centralia, who recently lost his sister. We still have the “HOPE-less” non with us, working relief at South Tacoma. Should think that he could see the “hand- writing on the wall” Sister Mielke, Sixth Ave., is sporting a brand new Overland roadster, and ye scribe will say it is “some” car. Sister Vose, Sixth Ave., recently returned from a layoff, is now busy, planning a corner on the “spud” mar- ket of the world. All of us having day dreams about those “ hack pay ” checks. Please, send me some notes. “No notes, no write-up.” Ellen C. Bryan, Cert. 1621, Stellacoom, Wash. Yellowstone Division — We hope by the time this appears that In- terpretation No. 8 will be put into effect. This is not an Increase in pay, merely the proper application of Supplement No. 13, which should have been In effect from the start. It has now come to the point where it is imperative that we brush aside all poli- tical party affiliations and vote for the men who will represent US. Remember how our Senators and Representatives voted for the Curomin8-Esch Railroad Bill when It comes to re-election. Any of you who are not members of the Plumb Plan League can join by sending your name and address, with one dollar, to the Plumb Plan League, Washington, t>. C., which also includes a year's subscription to “Labor,” the real labor publication. Quite a number have not ^et remitted the dollar for a year’s membership Jn the Yel- lowstone O. R. Club, the Flower Fund Club. We have supplied flowers to a great many sick sisters anfl brothers, and received many grateful and appreciative letters. Trust that each member on this division will mail his or her dollar to Sister D. M. Wilkins, Glendive, Mont., who will issue a member- ship card as a receipt. We hold meetings at Glendive on the second Saturday night in each month, and are always glad to have all that can come. Instructions have been issued by the superintendent to conductors, train and en- ginemen, not to enter telegraph offices to use the telephone, without permission from the employe on duty, nor go to the phone at such offices to secure information, unless called there by someone wanting to talk to them, but get their information through the operator on duty, in the usual manner. Watch this closely and promptly report any viola- tions to the superintendent. We are steadily gaining ground toward thq 100 per cent organization, and hope that everyone will lend an untiring effort toward attaining that point. E. A. Brand, L. C. Yellowstone Division Notes — Waco third closed a few nights, owing to shortage of operators. Sister Lynch working first while Bro. Foreman was at first Custer. Bro. McMasters, agent New Salem, and Sister McMasters, Howard, were recently V called East on account of the death of Sis- ter McMaster’s father; Bro. Buck, from Cus- ter first, relieving Bro. McMasters. % Sister Green, Sanders, visiting Billings, re- lieved by Sister Mulcahy. Bro. Hogmire, Richardton, on an extended leave West, will probably return hitched double. Sister B. Peterson resigned. Understand “Dan Cupid” responsible. Sister Merkel is now with her husband in Wyoming, where Mr. Merkel, who was Mr. Jacobus’ car stenographer, has an excellent position in a bank. They have our very best wishes for success. Bro. Segur, Mandan, is on an extended leave, account poor health. Bro. Sheffer, Forsyth, on leave, understand 4s headed for Salt Lake to join the Mor- mons. Here’s good luck, “Fish.” Cert. 623. Montana Division — Considering the weather, there was a good attendance at our recent meetings — seven- teen at Butte and about the same at Bill- ings and Livingston. Digitized by tjOOQie

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658 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. French, who represented the 100 per cent Rocky Mountain Division at the Butte meeting, favored us with a few very ap- propriate remarks. Add to yeur seniority list: Ora B. Dietz, Cert. 2329; H. P. Allen, Cert 2333 (trans- ferred). Heard, indirectly, that Vice-President Ty- ler has informed Bro. Johnson that Inter- pretation No. 8 to Supplement No. 13 of Gen- eral Order No. 27 is not applicable to the Northern Pacific. Our present rate was compounded using our rate effective after our schedule of Jan. 1, 1918, was effective, and in computing the back pay already re- ceived. This is about what might have been ex- pected, in view of the passage of the Cum* mins-Bsch bill and the other vicious legisla- tion that accompanied the return of the rail- roads to private ownership. We must “watch our step” at every election now and place men in office whose economic interests coin- cide with ours. The wage earners seem to be awakening to their economic interests, judging by the handsome majority Senator LaFollette re- ceived in Wisconsin. Our membership will probably get more than an A, B, C course before the settlement of Interpretation No. 8. A. J. R.. L. C. Members Idaho Diviision : In a recent circular letter I incidentally referred to a mimeograph machine which the members had so generously contributed to the purchase of and placed at my disposal. I now take this method of assuring each brother and sister contributing, of my deep- est appreciation. During the past month there has been un- told work, much of which would have de-, manded the use of the typewriter in mani- folding copies, and hours running into morn- ings, had It not been for the mimeograph machine. The machine has decreased the work two-thirds in this respect and permit- ted me to get out information to you that otherwise would have been impossible to do. With tills knowledge, you will know that the dollar you contributed was well spent and worth the returns you will secure, aside from my own appreciation. I sincerely trust that the Idaho Division will be of a closer mind and future schedule revisions will be founded upon the wishes of all. We have made a wonderful start this year as a perfect division. The late sched- ule gave us new fields to work in and we have made a good showing. Every member has displayed a keener interest, and by con- tinued and untiring effort we will be able to place the Idaho Division in the list of one hundred per cent solid. “Non” is becoming a word without a meaning, and the delin- quent list is gradually fading into history, a condition we have worked for and are now beginning to realize as a possibility. 67 each member continuing the good work they have set out to do, as evidenced in the above, we will again be the proud Idaho Division that we once were. I want to thank you all for your kind con- sideration in purchasing the mimeograph, and also the typewriter. The latter enable* me to do the work without returning to to? office of an evening in order to have a mill, and is equally as important as the mimeo- graph. ♦hese machines will have Che best of care and remain the property of the divi- sion. With kindest wishes and best regards, Yours Inost fraternally, R. B. Irwin, Local Chairman. Idaho Division Note*— Sister Morton, third Noxon, has resumed after 90 days’ vacation, relieving Sister Cheatham for two weeks* vacation, with Sister Paulin, third Athol, relieved by Sis- ter Burgund, who had been relieving Bra Hartman, third Trout Creek, a few day*. This brother has purchased a Ford "Bug." Sister Cheatham later relieved Bro. Smith, first Sand Point, who relieved Bro. Spurrier, first Kootenai Yard, while he attended the funeral of Brother Wool man’s 17-year-old son at Cheney. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended the bereaved parents and family. A beautiful floral offering was sent, which Bro. Woolman and family wish to thank the members for. Sister Bergund relieved Bra Woolman. Brothers Sater, agent, and Smith, second Cabinet, sick with “flu" several days, re- lieved by Bro. Kay and Sister Williams Later Bro. Kay relieved Bro. Williams ai Kildee a few days while he went to Spokane with his wife. Erase stars on your seniority Usts from Nos. 13, 68, 66 and 119. We gladly wel- come the new brothers. Bro. Combs has resumed Cocolalla agency after an extended sick leave. Mr. Eronson relieved Bro. Parent second Cheney, who went to “CS“ in Spokane. Bro. Clarke, who went to Oakeed&le, re- lieved, on “CS” Spokane by Bro. Parent from Cheney second. Bro. Shavelear opened Post Falls agency. Cntr. 498. Dakota Division— I hope our one delinquent member will re- mit before next issue 0 1 The Tklzgraphd and not be the cause of our losing first place on the system with our 100 per cent There is no reason for any member being unable to raise 87.60 to pay at least his semi-annual dues. Our delinquent list was the smallest in the history of the division, due In part to so many tpking out annual cards at $14 *nd Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 659 the balance realizing the importance of re- mitting on time. The roll-top desk, chair and typewriter at- tachment arrived and we are very grateful to the brothers and sisters who were the doners of this memento, especially to Bro. Baker, of McClusky, who sponsored It. They were Indeed a much needed asset to the chairman's office and we hope to prove still more worthy of the gift Sister Berquist relieved as agent Kllldeer with assistance of Bro. Raeshke, while the writer went to Baltimore after the family. Bro. J. H. Flowers, Driscoll, relieved Bro. W. H. Millard, agent Hazen, a few days. Bro. J. D. Everett relieved Bro. Bettger, agent Robinson,' while the latter visited in Washington and other Western points. Bro. N. H. Collins made a trip to Bis- marck recently to take his entered appren- tice degree in the Masonic Lodge, and Bro. H. E. Rannestad, agent Regan, to finish his. r Bro. F. H. Shipley, "GI” T. 8. Division, visited ye scribe recently. Bro. J. D. Rohrer, “J" Office, went to Brainerd hospital, relieved by Bro. D. C. Poindexter. Seniority lists can be had for the asking. Get your dues In early for this next term, save the G. S. & T. a lot of work, and every- body get an annual next trip. H. H. Ellsworth, Local Chairman. Lake Superior Division — April 1 seniority list shows the following changes : Place Bro. W. J. Soshea, Cert. 898, in place of Bro. M. M. Trumer, No. 78. Cross out No. 117, R. A. Chaffin; 118, E. J. Cleary, and 121, G. H. Hendrickson. Add as No. 119, P. C. Reidy, Cert. No. 2805. Show the following as members : E. R, Masson, Cert. 2314 ; W. A. Ross, Cert. 2325 ; Wm. J. Maloney, Cert 2827 ; and Miss T. A. Busch, Cert 2318. 119 names, 107 members, 90 per cent organized. Please don’t merely watch us make it 100 per cent, but help us do it. I appreciate the fact that many members are doing their bit to help organize the remain- ing unorganized men and it is with such help that we will be able to show a 100 per cent division at the end of the year. J. S. Spurribb, L. C. Lake Superior Division Notes — Relief agency abolished, Bro. Gray bump- ing Bro. Trueblood, Morgan Park agency. Bro. Flrthe threw up third Moose Lake, went on extra list, and bumped Bro. Aasve, third Central Avenue, who relieved Bro. McFarland, first Carlton, off for ninety days. Bro. O'Brien Is visiting in Carlton. Sister Lankford, on sick list at her home In Illinois, expects to be with us this month. Bro. Knedell succeeds Bro. Trumer, Wyo- ming first, resigned Bro. Curtis relieving Bro. Russell, Fon du Lac, for ninety days. Bro. Glum is now coming to work on No. 65, making his job a real position instead of a thirteen-hoar drag. Cert. 682. Minnesota Division— Red Lake Falls joint agency dissolved March 1, Bro. Taylor getting the new posi- tion, succeeded by Bro. P. S. Lund as teleg- rapher-cashier at Grafton, N. D. Later re- lieved Sister Kenifec a few days. Bro. Hamlet, third "SJ” Staple Yards, bumped Bro. E. G. Anderson, first Lake Park, who relieved Bro. O'Leary when he went to Rochester for an operation. Bro. Larson, agent-telegrapher DeLamere, also went to Brainerd hospital for an operation. We hope these brothers will successfully under- go the operations and soon be back on the division. Bro. A1 Stinar took a few days off after relieving Agent Miller, Wadena. Send the division notes as directed in January write-up. It is impossible for one person to do it all. Bro. L. C. Hetland, agent Audubon, is commended in the U. S. R. Administration Bulletin for noting that extra No. 1558 West passing his station had a bad order truck under car P. .R. 108111. The train was stopped at Labelle and car set out In the past the contracts have been let to the railroads for a certain lump sum cov- ering the handling of the mail, side and transfer included. The railroads have al- ways claimed that they received no pay for this latter service. The law has now been changed and the side and transfer is a sep- arate proposition requiring a report to be made to cover the actual expense for this service, which I understand the Government will reimburse the railroad for at a certain period. This should help to secure better arrangements for mail handling at various stations. Add certificate numbers to new members as follows : Peter Dewar, 2297 ; P. S. Lund, 2298 ; A. W. Paulson, 2299 ; Jno. ‘A. Stinar, 2300 ; J. S. Comstock, 2316 ; H. A. Hauser, 2316; H. B, Safstrom, 2317; M. L. Rist- vedt, 2323, and H. C. Jorgenson, 2284. We made a good showing in new mem- bers in February and first half of March. Let us get the few remaining none and make Minneapolis Division 100 per cent by June 30th. Let’s make May the best month of all. We have the snags left, but nothing is impossible to those who try. Any old fish can float down stream but it takes a live one to go up. Let’s all Uve ones and make a cleaning. L. F. L. C, Digitized by tjOOQie

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660 The Railroad Telegrapher. 8aint Paul Division — Bro. John Stewart, Como Shops, aged 69, the oldest operator in point of service on this division. No. 1 on seniority list, date 1882, died of heart failure, April 7th, before assistance could reach him. His remains were taken to Ohio, his former home, for burial. Sister Edna Crum, returning from Michi- gan where she had been called owing to the serious illness of her mother, went to Como Shops pending bids. Bro. Harven, first Mississippi Street, in hospital with an acute attack of pleurisy, relieved by Bro. Savage, Minneapolis side table, who later relieved Bro. McNamara, second Anoka, a few days on account of sickness. Bro. Herberg, second Mississippi Street Tower, also on sick list. Bro. Wells, second Minneapolis side table, relieved the dispatchers while making their trips over the road ; Bros. Nelson and Futcher doubling account scarcity of extra men. Sister Lilly Hermanson has resumed at Sartell nights, after a trip through the western country. It is now Bro. F. S. Parker, agent Sauk Centre. The dance, given by the Twin City Teleg- raphers* Club on April 6th, was a big suc- cess. The large Moose which was well filled with dancers, was prettily decorated by Bro. Poirier, late night chief N. P. office, with wreaths and sounders, our official emblem, and Easter colors. Thanks to Bro. Foulkes for notes. Clyde Bartbe, L. C. Wheeling & Lake Erie R. R., Div. 55. Bro. R. F. Smith, agent Twinsburg, re- lieved by Bro. C. D. Smith, owing to illness, latter by Bro. Gregory, who also relieved Buro. Schlegel, second Brewster Yard, sev- eral days, same account. He then relieved Bro. Lants, first Canton Yard, 30 days. Later Bro. C. D. Smith relieved Bro. Shrodes, Warrenton, when he bid in York- ville agency, succeeding H. M. Aby, who took Steubenville; I. M. Voorhees relieving Bro. Smith, third Kent, closing second Falls Jet. Sister McFee, third Falls Jet., sick several weeks, no relief available, position closed meanwhile. Bro. Davis, relief agent, re- lieved Bro. Hood, Beach City, while he was on sick list Bro. Hamilton, first Kent, off several days owing to the serious ill- ness of his mother. Bro. Griswold, second Canton Yard, sick several weeks, is some better. Bro. R. L. Flowers, second Adena, bid in first, and E. A. Toulon, third there. Bro. W. C. Utzler bid in second Mingo Yard ; Bro. H. L. Swope resigned Trowbridge agency, succeeded by T. F. Dalton, a new man. Bro. Gruber, Hartville, resigned; sec- ond Valley Jet opened, both advertised, no bids, latter up second time. A telephone has been installed from 93rd street to dispatchers' office on the Newburg & South Shore ; operators at 93rd street now work with three dispatchers. Train dis- pa tcl>ers have been installed at Homestead and Cleveland Yard, Bro. H. A. Roe, "MC” Toledo, and Brandal, 93rd Street doing the relief work. Cert. 318. Louisville & Nashville R. R., Div. 58. Nashville Division — Bro. Sesler, Ardmore, relieved by Bra Marble a few days, Mrs. Sesler having the “flu,” and Bro. Culps, Cornersville, by Bro. Pillings. Mrs. Culps being in the hospital Bro. A. K. Waters, Diana, off five days with "flu,’’ Bro. Galloway relieving, and Bro. R. L Stacy, two weeks, Bro. Hamilton relieving; Bro. Horn, College Grove, relieved several days by Bro. Laine. Bro. Tobbln, Bowling Green, sick some time, relieved by Bro. Kingery. Bro. H. F. Galloway also on sick list We are sorry to hear of the death of Bro. Gordon Dougherty’s mother; Bro. T. H. Tobin’s wife and Bro. Nat Gilmore's wife. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved brothers and families. Bro. Graef Montfort relieved a few days by Bro. Combs, who also relieved Bra Win- ham, South Tunnel. The small non telegraph agents have re- ceived their back pay, ranging from 1600.00 upward. We should see to it now that they all join the O. R. T. The ex-service boys have all been re- instated. Brothers, look over the advertised posi- tions and be sure you are qualified before bidding them In. It will soon be election time. Vote for the candidates you are positively certain will stand for our rights. Hon. L. B. Musgrove, Jasper, Ala., is can- didate for the United States Senate, against O^car W. Underwood, who boasts that he drafted the anti-strike clause as it orig- inally appeared in the Cummins and Esch bill. Mr. Musgrove, who is being supported by organized labor, the Anti-Saloon League and Women Voters’ League, spoke recently at a large rally in. Birmingham. Introduced by President Aultman, Alabama State Feder- ation of Labor. When the latter asked “What has Senator Underwood done for the people of this State In the twenty years he has been In Congress?” the big audience roared “NOTHING!” Mr. Musgrove said he had been a plain farmer and business man all his life. He was with the union In Alabama of the farm- ers and city workers, and admitted tb*1 Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Teleobapheb. 661 charge of his opponents that he "wore the union label," adding that he would rather wear it than the label of the stock gamblers of New York, who have; robbed union men for years; the union label of the miners of Alabama than that of the corporate inter- ests, or the railrod brotherhoods’ union la- bel than that of the salaried officials who want to dehumanize the nation's greatest industry. Brothers, if we can elect two hundred labor men and farmers, this Government will function properly. No better argument for new faces in Congress can be made than is presented by the chaotic state of the na- tional legjslative department today. Re- quire the candidates to say which they rep- resent, man or money. Many have disclosed their allegiance by records already estab- lished. Let me have your notes not later than the 12th or 13 th of each month and I will give you the best write-up possible. M. F. Whitt, Cert. 2221. Southern Ry.f Div. 59. A8hevM* Division — Our meeting in Salisbury, April 3rd, was well attended by members from the three divisions. This division was well repre- sented from Toxaway and A. & S. The meeting was called to order by Bro. Holmes, and Bro. Duncan introduced Presi- dent Manlon, who made us a good talk, en- joyed by all. Bro. West, third Azaleo, relieved a few days by Bro. Moore, and Bro. Yow, on his honeymoon, by Miss Graham. Bro. Phillips, first Coleman, relieved by Bro. Ky. Wilkinson, owing to the illness of his mother, and Bro. Hutto, third Greenlee, by Sister Hudson, on account of his mother- in-law’s sickness. Bro. Graham \yas laid off a few days. Be careful with your 31s. Bro. Wagner, second Newton, on leave, relieved by Bro. Crisp. Bro. F. O. LaFevers promoted to dis- patcher from second ‘‘XO." Bro. Cauble, second Blackmountaln, re- lieved by Bro. Moore a few days. Bro. Hedrick, agent Ridgecrest, relieved by Bro. Berry on trip, through country in his flivver; on return trip tried to swim the river and had to wade out. Bro. Peck gets third Barber; Riblt, third Drexel,. and Miss Jenkins, third Blmwood. Bro. Glendown rolls Bro. Smathers, second Coleman, who rolls ex-Bro. Merriman, third trick Nebo, discontinued. Bro. Coulter appointed local chairman by Bro. Alexander to succeed Bro. Little, re- signed. Boys, let’s all stand behind Bro. Coulter and give him our support in order that he may give us the benefit of his of- fice. We are all sorry to «ee Bro. Little resign. Just a few of the boys have received their new passes yet, which makes it very disagreeable as we were all used to the annual. We must stay organized and talk or- ganization to the farmers and working men of all kinds, get them to join their craft, and let’s all stand together. One man against organized capital is a very small thing compared to what an organization can do. I will be looking for some notes for the next issue. "Tox," Cert 2056. Columbia Division — We closed business Jan. 1st with only three none and two delinquents, one out of service and one an oversight on my part as local chairman. I believe we can close the present six months in better condition than ever before, as all of our men are of the right kind of stuff. Most of the new men came to us up-to- date, and we need have no worry from thi9 source, so It is up to you brothers to help keep our good division in this shape. The committee reports our finances in No. 1 trim, and I want to congratulate Bro. J. W. Burgess for his promptness in the discharge of his duties In behalf of the membership. Both your 'local chairmen have had too many irons in the fire to do all that was expected of them, and hope for some im- provement along this line. I think a new local chairman would be of benefit to us, and I am in favor of Bro. George Conniffee, of Tillman, 8. C., for this job. No doubt some of you members think that I have been hard on them as T. D., but if you only knew the worry and trouble of the past few months you would extend con- gratulations for forebearing as much as I have. Hoping to hear from some of the local boys, and wishing well to our new chief dispatcher, Mr. Bunch, and a sweet re- membrance of our former chief, W. H. Walter, I remain Yours fraternally, J. B. Elkin, L. C. 329 Main St., i Columbia, 8. C. “QM” Relay , Washington , D. C.— This seems to be the only relay office we ever hear from on the system. Come on, fellows, let’s have a few notes. Bro. Williams, third trick "WC,” relieved by Bro. Drumwright a few days, and he by Byerly, a new man. Mr. Beam, from "MK,” Atlanta, who bid in third trick, promises tc join shortly. We must maintain our 100 Digitized by tjOOQle

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662 The Railroad Telegrapher. per cent and must see that these promises are fulfilled. Bros. Balthis and Trotter have returned from a trip to Cuba. Bro. Irvin expects his “sheep skin” shortly. Bro. Purcell is enjoying evenings auto- moblling. Cert. 2671. Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe, Dlv. 61. General Relay , Chicago— Bro. Q. . S. Allen. Newton. Kan., has been appointed local chairman, vice Bra Moore, resigned. Bros. Shingler and Gathamann also resigned. La Junta — Bra L. A. Cass visited his daughter, Mrs. Harry J. Brau, Freeport, 111., Sunday and Monday, April 22nd and 23rd. Mr. Brau Is in the car foreman’s of- fice, Illinois Central. Bro. W. F. Meredith, “KO“ La Junta, is making trips to Kansas City too often to allay suspicion. “DX,” Arkansas City — Reeder, pn 90 days' leave of absence, accepted 87 Job and extra dispatcher. Do not think he is coming back. Edwards, former 87 man, assigned to open- ing, no bids received. Bro. Thompson, “SN,“ also on 90 days’ leave, going into the auto, sales business. Good man. Doubt whether he will come back either. Bro. Clark is now late night chief. The boys here are all wearing overalls in the office. Hamm and Baker, two check boys here, making good. Expect to go on the road shortly. “GO,” Topeka , Kan. — Bro. W. K. Smith, on 90 days’ leave, failed to return. Dad Childs is back from his outing and fishing trip down in Central America. Bro. Harper was off several days, sick. Bro. Nat Koltun is now with the S. P. in the New York office. Bro. Claybourn made several trips to Pekin, 111., recently, where he has a new boy. Bro. O. H. Ed mis ten announces the arrival of a baby girl. Business, light for ten days, due to strike, has picked up again, occasioning an increase in the force of two men, A. L. Pierce, W. U., Wichita, and a Mr. Walsh. Will learn where Walsh is from and whether up-to- date. Boys, don’t overlook sending in your notes by the 20th, and if the brothers need any bug repairs kindly let me know. “Ra" Cert. 367. Rio Orande Division h- Following back pay for positions re- classified as non-supervlsory agencies : Bro. A. V. Engle, Socorro, $641.68; Bra J. F. ’iih'Rn. Magdalena, 8381.44; Bro E H. Lane, San Marcial, $30.86 ; Bro. H. M. Han- cock, Berino (formerly agent San Marcial), $598.11. The adjustment of* these cases caused so small amount of work, but we have it and we are still in the game. How can oar nons read these lines and continue to keep our division below the 100 per cent mark? Only remaining delinquent. W. R. Hawk, night agent, San Marcial, still out, but fa- vorable. Local Chairman Lewis, resigned, now with the T. A P. at Ft Worth. He put forth much time and energy to bring our division up to its present strength. Why not do your part? Bro. W. H. Sniff. San Marcial dispatchers’ office, is now acting local chair- man. Bro. G. W. Wheeler, Cert. 1844, Division 15. now extra on third Engle. Bro. M. J. Cronin, who has been in Clovis Hospital with “Flu,’* is now on first Socor- ro, and Bro. B. L. Jones on second there, relieved at 'Bayard by Bro. J. L. Monahan. Bro. Nelms, third Isleta, has resigned to seek greener pastures, relieved by Extra B. S. A pod oca, who was displaced by Bro. F. E. Garrett at Socoro. Bro. C. 8. Mitchell, agent San Antonia and wife were recent San Marcial visitors. Come in again, “Mitch.” A large flock of crows roosting on the wires on the second district has kept our “DS" phone and the wires in trouble, as their weight causes some wires to sag to contact with phone. No, this Jsn’t Arkansas; they merely come here to train their young fliers. All the boys regret the loss of “RW” and “AS” and wish them the best of luck. Cmrr. 8060. Arizona Division — Five wires have been cut In the Barstow passenger station and three operators in- Htallel. eliminating the delay In messages filed there, also doing away with carrying the register and orders back and forth from the yard. This new plan is working out fine and the boys are well satisfied with the change. Bro. Nate Groenke, who resigned several months ago from first Ludlow, is back again bidding in third there. Nate can't stay away from the desert. Bro. Miller and myself have been work- ing nine-hour tricks and the office at Gcfb closed from la.rn.to7a.rn.on account of Bro. Ford taking his wife to Los Angela* hospital. Bro. Kennedy, third Yamp&i, taking In the sights in Los Angeles* several days, re- lieved by Bro. C. A. Clark from the N. P.. who has been out of the ra&road game for some time but is up-to-date. We are gift* to have him with us. Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Bailkoaxj Teleqhaphek. 608 Non Moore bid in Bagdad. We should now see that he lines up. Understand Agent Maxey at Kingman, who received about $500 back pay through the efforts of the O. R. T., will be with qs soon. We will be glad to welcome him as a member. Bra Alderson, third Water, recently re- signed, relieved by Bro. Brown, who only worked a short time and then went to Oregon when Bro. Alderson came back to his old job. Bro. Beaver, on second Yampai, who comes from the P. ft P., was formerly on this division. The local chairman visited Bro. Mickel, agent Johannesburg, April 8th. % We are glad to have Bro. V. A. Scott with us, a veteran O. R. T. member from the Grand Trunk Pac. in Canada, relieving Agent Rogers at Vidal, who is going to some northern road. Let us see that the few delinquents pay up soon as possible, as it weakens not only themselves but all who are trying to better our conditions. Also watch the new men coming to this division and see that they get lined up. Bro. Halloran at Barstow will furnish the necessary application blanks, etc. R. A. Vawteb, Cert. 8106. Coast Lines Division — Bra Mills relieved Bro. Parsons at Merced several days before going to Es- calon. Bro. Parson is in Lds Angeles having his eyes treated. Bro. F. L. Green is now with the traffic department, Bro. Lewis relieving him at Orwood agency. Bro. C. O. Robinson, Del Rey, is being congratulated on the arrival of a baby girl. Bro. Elliott relieved Bro. Robinson at Riverbank a few days. '•No card, no favors ” C. B. H., Cert. 1934. Queen & Crescent North, Div. 62. Membcis C. N. O. & T. P. — Mrs. B. P. Shewmaker, widow of our late Bro. B. P. Shewmaker, has a prac- tically new American adding machine with listing device and a 23-jeweled Elgin rail- road watch, which has only been purchased a few months, both of which she would like to sell. She prices the adding machine at $76, and will sell on monthly install- ments if purchaser desires, and asks $35.00 for the watch. Anyone interested please communicate with Mrs. Shewmaker at 241 Delmar Ave., Lexington, Ky. E. W. Shaooan, G. S. ft T. C. N. O. A T. P. Notes — Several of the boys are complaining be- cause there has been no write-up in the Journal from this division for the past two months. Thq reasdh therefor is that no one has sent me any news. Since having been appointed correspondent Bro. Hines is the only one who has ever sent me any news. We are glad to report that Bro. Eastman is out again after 15 days’ siege with pneumonia. New double track between “HP' Tower and Annadel will soon be put in service, which will cut out “HP’ Tower. Rolling will perhaps be started again. Bro. A. J. Jones, first Ten Bridge, one of our best and active members, died at his home in East Chattanooga, March 4th, from an attack of influenza. The remains were brought to Helen wood for burial. His loss will not only be felt by the membership but by the railroad company, who held him in the highest esteem. The funeral was conducted by the Masonic Lodge of Helen- wood. A beautiful floral wreath was fur- nished by the members of Division 62. The widow and one son who survived him have the sincere sympathy of all his fellow work- ers in thejr bereavement. Bros. A. Trlckey is on first M. Phillips second and Chas. Chitwood third at the new tower just recently Installed at New River. The new seniority list just gotten out by ‘ our secretary is a very good arrangement All you have to do to tell who is a non and who is a member is to get your list It seems it is heriditary to be a non, as we see on our list the name of a father, his son and daughter, all among that class. We wonder how they can accept their share of all the good things the Order has secured for us when they have done so little to help accomplish it Remember «the “No card, no favors” motto. Cert. 88. A. O. 8. Division -— Mlnval, Flanders and Irondale Jet on North End have been closed and several tricks on South End cut out recently, which will cause considerable “rolling” on this division. Local Chairman Pearce goes from Flan- ders to Collinsville, A4a., second, where he will continue his effective work of reducing the ranks of the nons. With proper co-operation from the mem- bership with our local chairman the nons will soon be a thing of the past. Bro. Brantley had the misfortune to lose his barn and contents, at Steele, a few days ago by fire. Cert. 194. Great Northern Ry., Div. 70. Havre Division — In my recent trip over the division I was very much pleased with the Interest mani- fested. We are not yet in as good con.btion as we should be, but favorable progress has been made within the last year. I have Digitized by Google

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664 The Railroad Telegrapher. worked very hard and in many instances sacrificed my own pleasure in order to pro- tect our interests, but a chairman cannot do all the work. Explain to the nons the bene- fits to be derived by becoming members, and we will accomplish the desired results in per- fecting a 100 per cent membership on this division. The General Committee will soon be in St. Paul working on schedule revision, but fche interests of this division will be properly looked after by Assistant Chairmen D. R. Rich, of Carter, and V. J. Josephson, of Brady. If you need any advice or help call on either of them, and if you desire to com- municate with me my address will be, 355 Shubert Building, St. Paul, Minn. There is no better indication of a live division than a good write-up in the Journal every month, but no one man can do this. Send your notes to these assistant local chairmen by the 16th of each month In order that they may ar- range and get them to St. Louis not later than the 25th. I have my hands full and cannot give this matter the proper atten- tion. FLOWER FUND STATEMENT. Received since last report $16.00 41.55 Expended since last report $57.65 00 Balance on hand First National Bank, Shelby, April 20 $57.55 Be sure and notify me of the illness of a member, so I ca^ have flowers sent imme- diately. W. Ray Walker, Local Chairman. Spokane Division — Notwithstanding the enormous increase of business going through Hillyard, I have been doing my very best to furnish you each month with a write-up, but I got no notes from any of you for the past two months. No one can do this work all alone. Lots of work and co-operation is necessary to gather all the news. I wps willing to give my time, but you have been unwilling to help me. Bro. A. F. Hazel. Assistant Local Chair- man, of Odessa, Wash., will now act as your correspondent, and any notes you can send him will be highly appreciated. He is a hard worker, but needs your co-operation to keep this going. A. H. Seeoar, Cert. 941. Spokane Division, First District— Let’s have a “Spring Drive" for new mem- bers and make this district solid, we can do it if everyone will help just a little. It is very important that your neighbor be lined up. We are at a critical period in our career and should be thoroughly organized. Some one hand application blanks to Livings- ton, Keene, Merwin and a few others who are doing all the operators* work, they might make good members. Bro. Forest Desperios, third Newport re- lieved on a fishing trip, by Sister Vanderholm. As the cork came out of the bottle and he lost most of the bait the catch was small. Spokane Division , Second and Third Dis~ tricts — Bro. Robasse. agent, off on account of sick- ness, relieved by Bro. Averill, and he on first by Bro. Wormsworth. The two new men on second and third Marlin, promise to get cards as soon as they get paid. See that they don’t forget these promises, also keep after Blue at Laraona. Bro. McDonald and I have written him sev- eral letters, but he won’t answer. Remem- ber “No card , no favors” and apply it strong. Trapp on second there for a short time was relieved by Carpenter, another new man, also promises us his application first pay check. Dispatcher Milligan, who was over the. road several times last month, told your cor-' respondent that O. R. T. insurance was about the best to be had. So, brothers, keep it in force by paying the M. B. D. assessments promptly and always having an up-to-date card. We are arranging to hold a meeting In Spokane : will let you know the date later, and want everyone who can get away to at- tend, as we hope to have Bro. Spurgeon with us and talk on our schedule, as he helped draw it up. Let’s all go. A. F. Hazel. Spokane Division, First, Second and Thirds Districts Notes — # Bro. Brooks of Odessa has our sympathy in the loss of his sister, following an opera- tion. He. just returned recently from a visit East, relieved by Bro. Nelson, who also re- lieved Bro. Averill, while latter relieved Bro. Robass on a trip East, owing to the death of his father; Bro. Nelson who is now with the S. P. & S.\ also relieved Bro. Dickenson at Wilson Creek, on account of the fitness of the latter’s mother. Later Bro. Dickenson was off sixty days looking after his ranch at Riverside. Sister Daisy* Horton, was retieved by Weaver, from the O. S. L., several weeks, while recuperating from the “flu.” Bro. Irving, agent Dryden, is being relieved by Agent Berger, who promises to line np shortly. See that he don’t forget his promise Bro. Graham, agent Adrian, relieved six months by Agent Bennett from the Marcus Division ; Bro. Schaffert, Marlin agency, sev- eral days by Bro. Anderson, and Bro. Stivers second Leavenworth, by Nye from Cashmere. Later Bro. Anderson bid In Cashmere second: Manetsch, Harrington second; Bro. Malden Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 665 from Marlin, Quincy first; Bro. McCormick, Sand Point third, and Bro. Smith, Cashmere third, succeeded on Ephrata first by Bro. Ives. Bro. Merry, Odessa third. Is being; con- gratulated on the arrival of a baby grirl in his family. Brothers, keep after the nons until you line them* up. See that those who promise to join keep their pomises, and remember: “No card, no favors Send your notes to Bro. A. F. Hazel, Assistant Local Chairman,. Odessa, Wash., in plenty of time so they can be arranged and mailed to reach St Louis not later than the 25th and we can have a good write-up every month. Cert. 162. Dakota Division — Brothers, find out if the men working with you or near you are up-to-date, if not, give them the third degree, if necessary. Let's make Division 70 one hundred per cent. Bro. Field, agent Petersburg, bid in East Grand Forks, and Bro. Keck, Doyon agency, vice Bro. Nelson from latter to Hillsboro second. Third Lakota abolished, Sister Lind to ex- tra list, spent several weeks with parents in Minneapolis. Bro. Carey, Grand Forks relay, is right at home now, his folks having moved there from Lamont, Minn., where his father was agent for the R. I. Bro. Ford has a Dodge now and it's some boat. Manager Arno-d, Grand Forks relay, cele- brated his twenty-fifth birthday with the company, March 5th. Bro. Keck, Doyon agency, and Bro. Lee, Inkster, were were recent Grand Forks call- ers, former peddling hen fruit. Come again, brothers. Larlmore is 100 per cent again. Bro. Berg is back on third there after spending a few days in Duluth, relieved by Bro. Forslund, who was bumped out of Devilslake Yard. A few days ago the Larlmore opsrators and station force had a special meeting re- garding improper billing of one sheep re- ceived for shipment to Petersburg upon ar- rival of train they discovered the shipment had increased to three, result of meeting was, “In future make notation, subject to in- crease” We are indebted to Bro. Keck at DoyOn for most of the news this time, some of you other brothers drop me a line, I can get quite a lot of news myself but appreciate any outside help. “Woodie/' Cert. 848. Minot Division — Assistant Chairman Mier is doing good work on this district. It is now Bros. Daly and Tracy at Rugby. Bro. Hay relieved Bro. Flath at Maza, a few days. Bro. Cousineau, Cando, attended the re- cent Big K. C. doings at Devil's Lake. Bro. D. M. Hemmesch passed through Rugby recently to attend the funeral of a relative in Dunseith. He was relieved later by Bro. Kenyon, from Upham, while visiting sick relatives in Illinois. The Rugby Branch will be 100 per cent solid when we get the nons at Willow City and Souris. Bro. Knud son is back at Maxbass after a sixty-day leave. Bro. Carver relieved at Noonan by Bro. Erickson, relieved at Loraine by Bro. Shan- ner. Bro. Hillmer from Thorne bid in Epplng. Local Chairman Yance has appointed me correspondent. I asked a brother on each of the eleven districts to send me some notes, but Bro. Dennison at Wolford was the only one who responded. Please send me all the news you can. I wish to thank Bro. Warner for his assistance. C. M. Miller, Cert. 2038, Rugby, North Dakota. Breckenridge Division — Bro. A. E. Shaw promoted to New Rock- ford ; Bro. E. A. Ohman, Breckenridge, ap- pointed correspondent for this division. Brothers, kindly send him your notes so we may have good write-up's each month. It is now Bros. Gage, Colfax ; Strand, New Rockford ; Brotten, Kindred ; Stoerlng, Nor- folk tower: Johnson, at Bedford, and Sister Sesslin, Simcoe. Let’s keep the good work going and make the division solid. Bro. Childs is back on second "WH” tower, after spending the winter on the coast. Sister Ohman, “BR” yard, off three weeks account sickness, relieved by Bro. Tinnes, now attending school at Grand Forks. L. B. Sapp, L. C. Breckenridge Division Notes — Bro. M. G. Larson. “NI,” granted six months* leave, relieved by Henry, a new man, and Bro. Huer, Kempton, on short leave, re- lieved by Bro. Iverson, Kindred. Bro. Kendrick has returned to New Rock- ford, relieved by Bro. Burns, and a«Hss Ger- trude Johnson to second “BR,” after eight months’ visit in St. Louis. Sister Olga Schmekel relieved several days in Breck -yard, and Sister Lockman, Grace City, relieved Bro. Skorheim, while he went to Blanchard agency several days. Bro. Thompson, Kindred, relieved a few days by Bro. Brotten. Bro. Arne. Iverson, night ticket agent Breck, temporarily. Bro. Hemmish, Page, N. D., was a recent Fargo visitor. Bro. Ohman relieving Local Chairman Sapp, relieved by Bro. Lasen, on first Fone side. Bros. Vandyne and Henry on second. Digitized by Google

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666 The Railroad Telegrapher, and Bro. Burnell, transferred from C. O. W. on third. Bro. Walhowe, Clifford, is relieving Bro. Williams. Wollsburfe. Bro. Eidom, Brantford, while attending court at Carrington, was relieved a few days by Bro. Fick. Supervisor Schott, formerly agent Breck- enridge, has taken over the express business handled by the Northern Pacific. Chaffee Station brought up to 48c an hour retroactive to January 1, 1920, formerly paid $60 a month. The O. R. T. does help. Does it not? The ticket clerks are now to be under the O. R. T. schedule, so get after them, boys. Bro. Whesenand, Grace City, ^relieved sev- eral days by Bro. Eberhardt, who also re- lieved Miss Hattie Stokes, owing to the death of her mother. She has our sincere sym- pathy in her bereavement. Sister Arries has returned to her home in St. Paul, as there was no relief work in sight. E. A. Ohman, Cert. 2078. Fergus Division — Correct your seniority lists by placing a star in front of No. 10 — W. A. Ford; No. 21 — C. H. Child, and No. 112— Albert Solum. This division again goes over the top with no delinquents and I hope you will give us the same showing for the second half of the year. There are only a few non-members work- ing and we can clean them up if you will all help. Would like to see this division in the hundred per cent class in the near fu- ture. ' I am happy to say that quite a number of you are progressive and have done good work, which I appreciate very much. If the others will do likewise, we will have a happy family, indeed. You should all be subscrib- ers to “Labor,** so you can keep posted on what is going on in the labor world. It is published by the Plumb Plan League at Washington, D. C. O. P. Knedel, Local Chairman. Willmar Division — Bro. Morton has been elected Local Chair- man for this division, vice Bro. Olson, re- signed. Bro. Thorn bid in Graceville agency, Breummer going to Huron, with Bro. Boyle on third there, and Bro. Jenkinson. cashier, succeeded at Bancroft agency by Woodcock, relieved by Klucas on second Aberdeen. Bro. Mnffatt is back from overseas, on Morris second. Reduction in tbe force at Tintah let Bro. Elwlnger out temporarily. Only three or four nons on this division. Remember the old motto, boys : “No card, no favors ” Cbrt. 184. Northern Division— I wish to thank all the brothers and sis- ters for their votes in the recent election, and assure them that my best efforts will be given toward making this a one hundred per cent division. There are only a very few delinquents, also a few scattering good agents and operators who I hope to soon line up. If you’ve got any grievances, shoot them this way. We’ve got two of the livest General Committee men ever, Bros. Johnson and Olsen, in the Shubert Building, St. Paul ready to do anything in reason to help us make this division solid. How about a meeting? When and where shall we have it? M. R. Monaole, Local Chairman. Sister Halllnd, second Lengby, spent Easter In the “Flour City.” Bro. Teal gives up rights and was relieved by Bro. Bart on third Lengby, to relieve Bra Stow on third Glyndon for five months. Bro. Wright is relieving Bro. Heckelman, third Bemidji, In Duluth on company busi- ness. Bro. Shorty Atkinson, Montana Division, an “old-timer” at “the brass game” is mak- ing a few months’ stay around Wilton, where he has a farm. The last time I saw him he had a twelve-hour trick at Fraser. Mont, his favorite pastime being to crawl up on top of the shack (he called his depot) and look the country over for miles to see if there wasn’t a stray horse or cow in sight he could talk to. Bro. Majeres, Crookston relay, spent Sun- day viewing the scenery on the Cass Lake Line from the observation car of the Squaw Special. Bro. Pete Kilberg, agent TUden Junction, says spring Is here now and he will have to give up that chase for the wolf, as the tracks can no longer be seen. Cert. 2342. Superior and Missabe Divisions— Chief Dispatcher Hornbeck, who spent fourteen months In the service In Russia, has returned, relieving Mr. Patterson, who has taken a trick. The ore season is about to begin. Super- intendent Kelsey made a trip to Kelly Lake recently, and kept the wires hot for a few hours giving orders, regarding opening new offices, putting on crews, car repairer*, clerks and switch crews. Understand three telefi*- phers and two phoners will be put on at Kelly Lake. The dispatcher’s force there has been increased to three men. Dispatcher Nelson has returned from six weeks’ visit to Portland, Ore. Local Chairman Pfenning’s letter to mem- bers in connection with news Items seem* to have had the desired effect Let us m Digitized by Google

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The Bailhoad Telbobafhbb. 667 if we cannot have a good write-up each month from now on. He. has purchased a new car and we are all assured of meetings at Grand Rapids this summer. He will call, one as soon as the weather will permit. Bro. Johnson, agent Swan River, has a new Chevrolet. The General Committee will probably be called into St Paul shortly for a revision of the schedule. If there is anything in connection with it you would i like to mention, take it up with Bro. Pfenning. Bro. Frank Vleck, who relieved Sister Lund at Buhl for a month, is taking a three weeks’ rest Bro. Nehiba, agent South Hibbing, has been able to get more help. Bro. Alvin Thompson, at Wawlnia. suc- ceeds Aelzant, agent Wawinia, who has gone to farming. Glen Thompson has taken Warba agency. /Bro. and Mrs. Sands are the proud parents of a baby girl. Sister Juhl is visiting at her home in Askove. Bro. Curto, agent Keewatin, who expects to go into the real estate business in Chicago Is on six months’ leave, relieved by Bro. Mark Curto, Calumet, relieved by Bro. Stewart. Members, take up any grievances you may have with Local Chairman Pfenning, don’t put it off. There will be a lot of new faces on the range this coming season, grab every non that shows up, and help the Local Chairman to line them up; we are nearly 100 per cent strong. Let’s stay that way. You have all received Local Chairman Pfenning’s letter regarding the Western Union situation. Get behind this movement and do everything possible to make it a success. Ckrt. 697. Minneapolis & St. Louis R. R.» Dlv. 71. Eastern Division — We sympathize deeply with Bro. Schrieber and family. Oakville, on account of the death of their child. We are glad to learn that Bro. Dodson and family Eleanor, have recovered from the attack of flu. He is second at Mon Yard now. Bro. Bryan is back at Montezuma agency, his position for many years before the con- solidation with the C. R. I. & P. during the Government operation of the railroads. Bro. Petrie, of London Mills, succeeds him at Abingdon agency. Bro. Robinson, second Oskaloosa, is now extra dispatcher In that office. Sister Davis transferred from Abbott to second Gilman, vice Bro. Scanlon to Rock- well third. Bro. Mahoney has been relieving at Kana- wha on account of sickness in Bro. Quire’s family. Bro. Storey at Bartlett has been sick some time; also Bro. Landfear at Wright, latter relieved by Bro. Jones. Bro. Cunningham. Lynvllle. is being re- lieved by Bro. Melton on account of illness. Our membership is now near the 400 mark and still growing. Let us all boost to make our division 100 per cent. It costs money to remind our brothers of their dues, so pay them promptly, and when you send them in include 60 cents for your year’s flower fund. It is not much but it shows a kind remem- brance to a bereaved brother and family. W. C. McLin, L. C. Central and Western Divisions— Resigned — #Bro. Hartranft, Wood Lake, in other business at Mosinee, Wis. ; Bro. Hal- verson, Conde. S. D., farming at Clarkfleld, and Bro. Turner. Mallard, going into the banking business there. Bro. R. J. Hoelz gave up Conde agency, relieved by Bro. Geo. M. Wage. Off sick — Sister Martin, Arlington, relieved by Swanson ; Sister Rutson, Boyd, Minn., re- lieved by Bro. Sampson ; Bro. Lund, two months, relieved by Bro. Schnable; Bro. Vo- patek. agent New Prague, Minn., relieved by Bro. Pankhurst. Montgomery, Minn., who later relieved at New Prague. Bro. Paulson. Young America, relieved one week by his brother, Bro. C. J., formerly agent at Excelsior, who later relieved Bro. Runge, Madison. Minn., while visiting in Minneapolis, a week. Bro. Callles. first “MS” Minneapolis, re- lieved a few days by Bro. Vaughn, second there. Bro. Madden, third Waseca, Is off on leave. Bro. Muske. agent Otisco, visited in St. Paul, recently. The non at Truesdaye does not believe unions are a good thing. Brothers working near there remember : “No card, no favors.9* We now have only one regularly assigned agent and two extra operators between Min- neapolis and Albert Lea, who are not up-to- date. General Manager Nash has approved the Items that were holding up back pay for those that are coming under the Sunday re- vision. Bro. R. H. Gleason, second Gowrie, re- lieved by A. W. Sorg from Faribault, Minn., who will soon be up-to-date. Brothers satisfy yourselves when a boomer presents a card asking for assistance that he Is the rightful owner of it before you help him. New mombprs : H. B. Turner, Mallard, Iowa : B. Scberson. Aberdeen. S. D. : Oeo. M. Wage, agpnt Conde. S. D. ; T. L. McDer- mott. New Richland, Minn. ; C. A. Johnson, relief agent Langdon, Iowa; G. M. Cross, Storm Lake, Iowa ; H. N. Manchester, Lowry, Digitized by Google

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668 The K.ulkoad Telegrapher. S. D. ; Qua Rieck (leverman), Aberdeen, S. D. ; H. L. Nichols, Winthrop, Minn. Brothers, give our new officials the best service possible, answer calls promptly and get In your C-M and O-S-S on time. Answer correspondence same day 'you receive It, If possible. Will appreciate it and when we wish a favor be more readily to grant it. Thanks to General Chairman Gardener, Lo- cal Chairman Madden, G. S. ft T. Sandmier and Bro. Runge, Madison, Minn., for assist- ance in this write-up. Brothers, send in a few items of interest each month* I will ap- preciate it very much. S. J. B., Cert. 451. Southern Pacific Ry.» Atlantic Div. 72. a . ft T. C. R. R. Division— Bro. Rumfield relieved Local Chairman Gormley while laid up from being hit by a Frisco switch engine. We are glad that he is back at his post again. Bro. Johnson, from F. W. D. C., relieved Bro. McNiel at Groesbeck nights, when lat- ter was transferred to Plano third. We are glad Bro. Me has finally been able to settle down and stop this continued moving around, as the writer has had to do for the past five years. Bros. Tucker, agent, and E. U. Stroud, W. U. manager and ticket agent, Groesbeck, Bro. Martin of Palmer were recent Dallas visitors. Most all the railroad operators will soon have the opportunity, of using up that sur- plus oil money they made riding around Ip the moonlight in their fine Buicks. The un- designed won’t rode any. Don’t overlook June 19th and send me a nice big juicy watermelon on that date for carrying on proper celebrations. Cert. 1285, Division 36, hit the keynote In his write-up about commercial telegraphing. We should receive a commission on all mes- sages sent and received regardless of whether they are paid or collect. It's almost as much trouble to handle a paid received message as a collect. We have to be responsible for them just the same as the other and don't get a red cent for it. I would be glad to see our chairman take this matter up and keep driving away until we get what we should have for this service. Cert. 233. Chicago & Northwestern R. R., Div. 76. Chicago Terminal — Bro. Dixon is again doing relief work after several weeks at the Wesley Hospital undergoing an operation. Bro. George Cone Is making preparations for his wedding to Mrs. Nettie Hedwick, which Is to take place shortly. The Chicago Terminal boys extend congratulations. He relieved Bro. H. J. Kelly several days while his wife was in the hospital. Bro. Geo. Meyers. Clinton Street first vu relieved April 3rd, and Bro. O. A. Fries, April 10 th, by Bro. Burns, and Bro. A. W. Steen, April 10 th and 11th, by Bro. Hawkins, who also relieved Bro. G. C. Reynolds, “JN** sec- ond, April 12th on account of sickness, re- lieved by Bro. Hawkins. Bro. C. M. Scanlan on sick list April 12th. relieved by Bro. Dixon. Bro. Harry Mottles, Rose Hill third, wti relieved for several weeks by Bro. Delah&nty. Bro. H. C. Dierks, Kedzie Avenue first is considering buying an auto and starting a broom peddling business. Brothers needing articles in this line should place their orders with him promptly. We extend our deepest synfpathy to Bro. Arthur Crueger, Sanenmon Street third, ow- ing to the death of his mother. The regular meetings heiu uns month were attended by First Vice-President Brown, who gave a very interesting talk at each meet- ing, and some valuable advice that should be heeded by all, for in order to be suc- cessful during the coming year we must adhere to the principals of unionism and imbibe the spirit of loyalty and solidarity. ■ For the first time in several years we have among us a few who have not paid their dues, all men who are working steady while the men on the extra board who scarcely ever work have their dues paid up- to-date. It is possible that we will have to again resort to the “No card , no favor* " motto. Cert. 1435. Lake Shore Division — The meeting at Green Bay on April 17th, attended by some twenty-four of the brother* was called to order at 8 :20 p. m., by Bro. Tledka, Boyington, was present and answered questions propounded to him by the several members in regard to important matters now in process of settlement. He gave It a a his opinion that the back pay would be forth- coming within a week from the date of this meeting. It was reported that there were only three none now left on the division, and the broth- ers all agreed to go after them, and give them no rest until they lined up. Meeting adjourned at 10 :20 p. m. Bro. R. L. Wall, agent Brillion, was oiT a few days on account of his father’s death at Chicago. Funeral services were held at Askeaton. We all extend “Dick” our heart- felt sympathy. Bro. P. E. Johnson, who was home a few days, owing to his brother’s illness, took sec- ond Rosemere on his return, succeeded at Cedar Grove agency by Bro. C. L. Prahl, agent Grimms, and Bro. Lee Ivey, from sec- ond Rosemere went to Oostburg. Bro. Walter Manski is back at Pulaski agency after a month’s illness. Bro. Ed EIb- berger. Calumet yard, is on the sick list Digitized by Google

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 669 Bro. Dziedzic bid in Duck Creek, and Bro. McConnal, Newton. Bro. Paul Wilke got his finger smashed unloading freight at Mosling. Our chairman is trying out his new Paige. Remember : “No cardj no favors/* Wish to thank Bro. Harts worm for the notes wired me. R. J. B. Madison Division — Bro. Jorgensen, agent Friesland, and fam- ily, while visiting Milwaukee, relieved by Sister Louise R. Voltl who later relieved Bro. R. C. Yahnke, extra dispatcher, on Adams Yard first. Bro. Ayer, agent Verona, relieved by Bro. W. Q. Eberts, of Mt. Horeb, while attending the funeral of his sister at Lodi, Wis. Bro. Smith, agent Blue Mounds, went to Evansville agency, vice Bro. E. P. Colton, retired on pension after forty-five years ac- tive service as agent on this division, relieved by Bro. J. J. Schleck. Bro. Wood, South Beaver Dam third, is being relieved by Bro. A. J. Wiseheart. Bro. H. C. Atkinson relieved Bro. Wyrem- bek. Friesland third, who bid in Aften third, and Bro. C. D. Ferner, relieved Bro. Cramer, Dalton third, who bid in Friesland second. Bro. W. C. Hesselberg, telegrapher Plattfc- ville, relieved by A. D. Dungan, while acting as agent there. Dungan worked here six years ago. Local Chairman Jenks while attending Chi- cago committee meeting, on Dalton second, relieved by Sister Conklin, who also relieved Bro. Platz, agent Buffalo, a few days. Bro. Hibbard. Tower “MY” Madison, re- lieved a few days by Bro. L. A. Riedl, wno later relieved on Beloit second and third, sev- eral weeks. Bro. Betthuiser, agent Tunnel City, was off recently with the “mumps,” Sister Gladys H. Conklin is on first there, pending assign- ment. Bro. A. E. Patterson, agent at Platteville for twenty-six years, bid in Evansville agency. Bro. E. L. Stout relieved Bro. H. A. Ware at Clywan junction, when called to his home at Trempealeau, owing to the death of his mother. We extend him our heartfelt sym- pathy in his bereavement. Bro. Roberts, agent Lodi, on scik list, re- lieved by Relief Agent John Meier. We are grieved to learn of the recent deatn of Night Chief John Dolan at Adams, after a lingering illness and several operations. His loss will be keenly felt, especially by the boys on the Sparta line with whom “Jack” was always popular. Bro. S. W. Webster, Baraboo first side- wire, went to Chicago, April 21st, to take his examination for train dispatcher. I am indebted and thankful to Bro. F. J. Wagner for news items this month, and also to Bro. A. J. Wiseheart, who has consented to furnish news notes from the Sparta Line. U is now Sister Gladys H. Conklin, and Bros. C. W. Direnzo and C. F. Ferner. There are still a few who are delinquent in the payment of their local annual dues. Cert. 917. Ashland Division — Bro. G. J. Reed, Fen wood nights, closed, to Chicago on leave. After closing Koepenick nights, Bro. J. M. Johnson took Tigerton sec- ond, and Bro. E. W. Stelnert, New London second. Bro. C. W. Fletcher, Hatley agency, resigned, succeeded by Bro. V.- C. Pickering, succeeded at Elmhurst agency by Bro. J. A. Hickok, relieved by Bro. H. Cheeseman, on Aniwa second. Bro. E. F. Hoppe relieved Bro. Koerner, Wausau junction third, two weeks, to take care of his wife and children, sick with measles. Bro. A. J. Hooper relieved Bro. Kuehlman, Wittenberg third, on account of sickness. Bro. C. G. Rowe, second Kaukauna, went to the Southern Illinois Division, relieved by Bro. J. N. Bacon, who was later relieved two weeks by Bro. F. Korbish. Local Chairman J. H. McDonough advises that his wife, sick over a year, is doing fine, since she got out of the hospital. The delinquents on the division are: O. A. Fielder, G. Jillson, F. Locke, H. M. Kilsdonk. Jane Albrecht and C. F. Hills, and the nons : L. Gehr, O. C. Luther and E. R. Swanson. It is now Bro% P. J. Meredith, agent Mer- cer, and Bro. B. Nelson, Three Lakes agency, a returned old-timer. No notes received from the North End. “AS,” Cert. 1535. West Iowa Division — t Bro. Davis, first “CB,” relieved by Bro. Hines, “EX” first, on account of his health, and latter by Bro. Sandeen, Ogden third ; Bro. Silliman, third “ON” relay, lately taken off, is back on second Ogden ; Bro. White, second “ON” relay, is breaking in for dis- patcher. We wish him success. Bro. Schrader relieved on Missouri Valley second, by J. R. Simmons, of the Postal, has gone into the poultry business. We all wish him success. We were all grieved to hear of the sudden death of the wife of Bro. Center, agent Cres- cent, and extend him our sympathy. Bro. Noble fared first rate on the recent back pay. It has been rumored that he has selected a “better half" and is now on his honeymoon. Brothers, send in your notes and help us to get a write-ub every month. If you get next to any “buddy” not carrying an up-to- date card, forward his name to Local Chair- man Wolf, Denison. “No card, no favors “Bill/' Cert. 2822. Digitized by ^.ooQie

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670 The Rajeroau Telegrapher. Minnesota Division — Bro. W. E. Skeels, called to North Dakota on account of his mother's illness, relieved several weeks at St. Peter Junction by Bro. E. J. Lampe from Winona side table. Ray M. Morse, dispatcher from Winona, who has been in Russia several years, re- turned recently and took the position of night chief at Winona. We are all glad to see him back with us again. Winona fourth telegrapher taken off April 1st, owing to heavy work has been put back and made a permanent position. llro. F. W. Miller, St. Charles, relieved by Bro. McDougal a few days. Bro. Mattson relieved Sister LeMay, third Dodge Center, who was married recently to Conductor E. R. Kramer, of Waseca. Con- gratulations. Sister Landers is convelescing at her home in Lewiston from a siege of smallpox. Bro. Frank spent two w'eeks recently at Duluth, Eau Claire and other Wisconsin points, relieved at Dodge Center by Bro. Whitcomb, who later relieved Bro. Swan- beck at Tracy ten days, and then went to Lamberton second, vice Walkoske to extra list Bro. C. M. Keefe has gone to Lewiston first getting nearer to his old home each change. Bro. Felix, Springfield, was a recent Man- kato Sunday visitor. Bro. Tauer of Sanborn is now the pride of the state road on his new motorcycle, and taking no one’s dust* Quite a number of the boys who were in the military service received their state bonus recently, but the only ones who received their back pay to date are the brothers at the Winona dispatcher’s office. Tracy fourth, Judson second and third, and Mankato third pulled off March 31st, giving us a few extra hands, making it handy for those who care to lay off. Sister Haugen visited her old home in Eau Claire, and Sister Schlohegl visited Sleepy Eye, Sanborn and the Twin Cities, a few' days. Bro. Lahey, who relieved Sister Bohn a week or so. later visited Owatonna and his old home at St. Charles. D. J. Mahoney. Peninsula Division — The high water recently flooded Oconto, Wis., making the bridge there unsafe to cross over and trains of this division were run via Duck Creek, Pulaski and Gillett to Oconto. Bro. A. L. Anderson, Fond du Lac, visited home folks at Hermansvllle a few days, and Bro. R. J. Moras, of the latter point, at Iron Mountain, .recently. Bro. I. L. Sutherland, agent Hermansville, returning from Menominee visiting his folks at Ingalls, and Bro. A. J. DeL&ire second there, spent a few days recently visiting his folks at Bark Riser. Bros. R. E. Patrie and J. Nasberg went to Quinnesec to look over first there when up for bids, vice Bro. E. Koening, who succeeded Bro. Faber, resigned, on second Marinette. Bro. R. J. Moras was in Escanaba recently purchasing diamonds. The wedding bells will ring in June. Congratulations to him and his fiancee. Bro. N. J. Payton, first Manitowoc, visited his folks recently at Iron River, Mich. Brothers, be sure to keep a close record of the trips you make to and from post offices, handling U. S. mail. The company has sent out forms for this purpose. If you have not received them, advise your Local Chairman. Bro. Piche, third Oconto, while off with a sore eye wras relieved by Bro. F. J. Tausig- nant, later to Stager second, vice Bra R. R. Olsen to Vulcan second. Thanks to Cert. 849 for his Items. Call again. J. E. Ranges, Cert 606. Eastern Division — Local Chairman Thomas while attending (the meeting at Fremont, April l£th, was re- lieved by Bro. A. W. Davison. General Chairman Thomas and General Secretary and Treasurer Boyington gave ut a good talk and answered any questions touching upon things of interest to the Tele- graph clan and explained the strike situation in Chicago, which enlightened us on the good principles of organized labor. Agent Miller of Seward gave a short talk on the inequali- ties of agents’ pay as compared with that of operators. Mr. Beck advised him that the matter of salary adjustments was up to the O. R. T. There was a good attendance and lively discussions throughout the meeting in regard to the many things in which we are all interested. Bro. Janovy, Battle Creek, spent a few hours in Norfolk recently. Sister Dorothy Mosher has returned from a visit at her home in Winner. Bro. Oatman, Atkinson, was relieved a few days by Bro. Rutledge. Bro. Haywood, Oakdale, off on account of sickness was relieved by Bro. Anderson, who also relieved his brother-in-law at Blencoe, la., several weeks, while he had the “flu." Bro. Geo. Richter, agent Surprise, off all winter on account of sickness is back at work again. Bro. W. G. Sheldon, agent Octairo. is off on account of sickness, also Chief Dispatcher Evans at Fremont. Bro. Frank Bartlett, agent Newport is putting on some style with his new MitchelL Bro. Ward, Cosgrove, who relieved him a few days, later went to Torrington, Wyo., for s week to register for the land opening for Digitized by tjOOQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. • 671 soldiers, relieved by Bro. Grant White. Bro. Frank Otrodovec went to Powell. Wyo., to register for the land opening there. Rudolph "Rudy Krska" has just returned from a winter's trapping and hunting, and is ready for work again. He and his sister Mary were in recently taking examinations. Bro.. Kelly, agent Burke, on account of sickness in his family, relieved by Bro. F. A. "Haas. Texas & Pacific Ry., Dlv. 88. Louisiana Div. (Bast) — The "get-together" meeting called for April 4th was postponed owing to small at- tendance. These meetings are called to dis- cuss different matters and the workings at our different stations. Let’s come out to the next one 100 per. cent strong. Keep after Brupbacher at Gouldsboro and Blau at Luling and give them no rest until Superior office was reopened under C. & X. W. Ry. supervision, April Uth, after be- ing consolidated with C. B. & Q. there during the term of the Railroad Administration. G. W. Hall, former agent until recently third trick dispatcher in Fremont is again on the Job with Operator Schweln telegraphing pend- ing assignment. David City office also re- opened recently by Former Agent F. M. Maule, after being consolidated with the Union Pacific during Government control. Bro. Fred Willafd, second West End, re- signed. and gone on a farm east of Nicker- son, relieved by Bro. Davis. Bro. Nichols is back on second Oneill again. Bro. Mosher, Winner, called to Chicago for a few days. Bro. C. C. Wakefield succeeded on first Bonesteel, transferred to Humphrey agency by Bro. Leroy Davis, and Bro. H. P. Weitzel to Shickley. . relieved at Cfcdar Bluffs agency by Relief Agent Brown. Bro. Bates, Leigh, short one man, expects to be given another soon. Arrangements are being made for a new depot at Scribner. Bros. John Abart, agent Bassett, and Ward Cosgrove from Newport, took the third de- gree in masonry recently. It is now Bro. J. H. Reis, second Tilden. Bro. F. A. Haas, relief operator, while working at Bassett broke a store window while handling U. S. mail with company equipment and had to settle for the damage, but he turned the bill over to the O. R. T. and got his money back. The work of Bro. Macy and the others at Fremont in forming the Fremont Telegra- phers* Club should stimulate and furnish an inoentive .for all .of us to get busy here on the West End. The meetings were held in the trainmaster's office, while the club was being organized, but a more suitable place .will be found When it is firmly established. We would all be better brothers and better employes If we could get together often and discus* the different questions and difficul- ties .that. oome. before us. Let’s all get to- gether on this and make this old division hum. Keep after the “none” working with or close to you. Wish to thank all the brothers and Miss Ruth Whitney for their help in getting out ..these. items. C. J. Smith, Cert 2745, Inman, Neb. they join. Bro. W. J. Le Blaiic bid In Shaw and Bro. C. Coddeau, Batchelor agency, latter suc- ceeding Bro. Boudreaux who bid in Crow- ley. Bro. Landry, second McCall, went Batchelor agency while Bro. Boudreaux and Bro. Coddeau were checked out and in. Bro. W. J. Murphy, third Plaquemine, bid in first Meeker. Bro. Hebert relieved Sister Ellis second Bayou Goula, relieving Bro. Miller, second Plaquemine, who relieved Bro. C. E. Holmes and Bro. Boe at Addis a few days. Second New Roads closed Sister Dustman, displacing Bro. Porrler, who took third Vacherie vice Bro. Walther who displaced Sister Haase, third Bayou Goula. Willetts, Deer Park, Shaw and Black Hawk closed temporarily on account of high water and train service suspended from Tor- ras to Ferriday. The four brothers relieved will have plenty of malg line until the sta- tions reopen. Cert. 840. Louisiana Division (West) — Bro. Powell relieved Mrs. Tassin. More- land third, for ninety days. Bro. Martinez, agent, Rosedale, has a new flivver. Bro. Donaldson, "CO" second, is now dis- patching for the R. R.. & G- We wish him success. Bro. Belomy, agent, Fordache, while at- tending court, was relieved by Sister Schoenmaker. I nave recently been appointed corre- spondent for this division. If you boys will send me your notes we can have a writeup each month. C. J. Doiron, Cert. 64. Rio Orande Division — Bro. Paul Frame visited homefolks on Division 137 recently. Bro. J. L. Sharp, Division 137, is reliev- ing Bro. Baxter, second Roscoe, visiting in the East. General Chairman Abney went over the division recently on grievance work. Yours truly off ten days, visited El Paso and the quaint old city, Juarez (Mex.), “the bandits home along the banks of "the sil- very Rio Grande." Bro. "Pat" Harrison, second Pecos City, is acting agent at Pyote. Send me a tew notes in time so I can get ' ' '• * * A' Digitized by Google j

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672 The Railroad Telegrapher. them to St. Louis not later than the 25 th of each month. J. W.. Box 77, Monahans, Tex., Cert. 797. Eastern Division — Bro. R. L. Hodge was relieved several days by General Chairman Abney, and Wallace by Hambrick. Bro. Kinnersley was off sick a few days, others doubling. Fort Worth Joint Track & T. G. Division — Bro. Underwood bid in first DeKalb re- lieved on second by Livingston. Bro. John- son and Sister Sheridan to Roanoke second and third ; Bro. Booth to Whitesboro split, vice Bro. Wingo, who bid in Putnam agency. Bro. J. W. McCoy to car distributor job, dis- patcher’s office, Ft. Worth, vice Raymond Winn, relieving Extra Dispatcher Harvey, resigned. Bro. Moore, Clarksville, visited ten days on west end. Bro. Skinner, Honey second, resigned, re- lieved by Sister Shelton. Bro. Jenkins, Denison, days, relieved sev- eral days by Coleman. Bro. Walthall, Mingo first, relieved a few days by Helper Thompson from Aubrey, who later relieved Bros. Wemple and White. Aubrey, on first and third several days. Sister Cade, Watauga, while, visiting friends on Joint track, relieved by her sister. Bro. Fox, Tioga, relieved several nights by Bro. Maples. Fort Worth Division ( West End ) — Bro. Ringwald, Cisco first, relieved Bro. Booth on third there who relieved Bro. Flanigan at Gordon a few days. Local Chairman Canafax resumed on Weatherford second, relieving Bro. Read visiting on Joint track. Sister Shelton relieved Bro. Lasater, Aledo second, and Sister O’Rteilly, Tremble second, a few days. Bro. Stevenson, Division 177, relieved Bro. Stover, Mingus third, who bid in Santo second, vice Coleman to T. C. Division. Shotwell, Mingus, In hospital, operators doubling. Bro. Lewis bid in Olden agency, vice Bro. Bralley to Olden third. Bro. Boren. Ranger third, off several nights sick. Bro. Rice from D. & R. G. on R. G. Ranger second. Bro. Rawls relieved on Strawn first a few days by Nichols. Sister Fits relieved on Lambert second two weeks by Livingston. Bob Denton, “RD,” Cert. 532. Chicago Great Western R. R., Div. 96. Western Division — Our regular meeting called at Ft. Dodge April 11th after having been postponed a month, was attended by a goodly number, but more should have been present and I wish to urge each member to try and get to these meetings as very Important business is transacted there, that the absentees should be on hand to hear and give their views on. It is regretted very much that First Vice- President Brown and General Chairman High of the Santa Fe were unable to be with us, owing to important business requiring their attention elsewhere, but we expect to have them at some future meeting. General Secretary and Treasurer Ott gave us a very good talk, showing why one should keep *his dues paid up, etc., and General Chairman Coleman gave us some informa- tion as to his work along the line, and of difficult grievances settled. He requested that each member speak a few words, which was complied with and some good advice given, which it will be, as a whole, well to abide by. Bro. W. L. Cole, agent, Lyle, Minn., and Bro. G. W. Gough, agent. Clarksville, who entered the service, respectively in 1886 and 1887, two of the oldest men on the division, were among those present and reported aolid O. R. T. stations. Bro. Coleman asked that the members abide by any action taken by the Order in getting rid of handling the U. S. mail ; mean- ing that at points where it has been taken away from the agents. They refuse any compensation offered by anyone to handle it That work Is a burden to every agent, and if we get rid of it. let us all refuse any new offers to handle it again. Bro. A. C. Harre told of the grievances be had settled, also those not yet settled, and requests that the member advise him of all Irregularities in order that he may give them his attention. During these trying times of the many labor disputes throughout the country, it 1* important that we do not give our employer* any chance to claim that we are not per- forming our duties faithfully in their in- terest. Also show the public that we are de- serving of the patronage we seek for the company we represent. Stand firmly for the uplifting of our craft and sooner or later we will secure the betterments rightfully due us. Bro. Coleman requests that we all advise him of the location and name of any “non" or delinquent whom we may know. Bro. Barnes is back on Clarion night side table vice Bro. Walsh, resigned, to go into the real estate business. No notes North End received. Would ap- preciate a few. O. R. HoiaiNdroK. Eastern Division — Bro. A. T. Wheelas, first Bellewood, suc- ceeds Bro. L. L. Sheckler, agent, Aurora, la- appointed agent. MeCbon City. We all wish him success. The promotion is well meri&A Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 673 The few men on this division who have not yet paid dues for the current term should remember that this is an obligation they owe themselves and the men they work with who are x trying to better yours and their condi- tions of employment ^ Bro. Campbell, second Esmond, relieved Bro. Richter, third Wilkinson, account sick- ness, who later relieved Bro. Stanley, first Chicago Transfer, several days. Bro. Harris; second Sycamore, was re- cently called to Hattiesburg, Miss., owing to the serious illness of his mother. Bro. J. W. Rose, formerly third Sycamore, is now cashier with the Farmers Grain Co. there. We wish him success. The meetings held at Sycamore and Oel- wein recently were well attended, Bro. H. E. Garrells, agent Graf, was mar- ried recently. Bro. D. L. Lahey, agent. Oneida, breaking in as dispatcher at East Stockton, relieved by Bro. Kimber, second Oneida. Bros. Kretz and Barron, first Dubuque and second Dubuque Passenger Station, changed tr eks, and the former is now with the United Press at Clinton, la. Remember that the “nons" are reaping benefits of our organized efforts and give them no rest until they line up. Geo. A. Ott, Cert 57. Duluth, So. Shore A A. Ry„ Div. 116. Bro. B. J. Peterson, Nestoria, attended the recent Bergland dance. Bro. Herbert, Hum- boldt, visited Marquette recently, missed No. 1 by a neck and had to walk home. Bro. W. E. Fish, general superintendent’s office, Marquette, was a recent Houghton visitor. Bro. Fred Wubbena is now with Weidman and Sons Co., Trout Creek. We all wish him success. Bro. Showers, Mlchigamme, in the toy business on a small scale, hopes the demand for his products will increase, enabling him to expand it before fall. Bro. W. E. and Mrs. Popps were recently called to Thorpe, Wis., owing to the death of Bro. Poppe’s sister. Division 116 mem- bers expreseed their sympathy by - sending flowers. Understand the Telegraphers Maintenance of Way, and the Brotherhood of Railway Clerks held a joint meeting Sunday, April 25th, to go over the new wage scale to be presented to the company April 28th. Neil Hume, Cert. 215. Lehigh Valley R. R., Div. 124. There are some operators on this road who apparently think that the world owes them a living without trying to earn it, but this is a mistaken Idea. We must make some kind of an effort and not be satisfied with simply an existence, as we were almost obliged to do before our opportunity came to better conditions and realize what it meant, to really live, and have a few dollars more than necessary to purchase the bare neces- sities for ourselves and families. While the ones I refer to comprise a vary small minority, nevertheless their failure to pay their dues is a menace and a hindrance to our attainment of the 100 per cent or- ganization we so much desire. Impress It upon these few “nons” and de- linquents that they must do their part, join and keep up-to-date, or expect to feel what “No card, no favors” means. # M. M. Crane, G. S. & T. Wyoming Division — Joint meeting held in Wilkesbarre, March 23rd, was well attended, but an improve- ment in this respect will make future ones more interesting and instructive. General' Chairman Leh and General Chair- man Pry, latter from the C. R. R., of N. J., addressed us. Bro. Ryan, “OX” tower, relieved several days recently by Bro. Barber, and Bro. Ellsworth by Bro. O’Brien, owing to sick- ness. The latter also relieved Bro. McArt, “YG" tower, a few days on account of his father’s death. Local Chairman Hartman is back at Cox- ton after several days’ illness, and Bro. Mc- Hale is on duty there again after a siege with the “flu.” Bro. Scalley bid in first there recently. We had no writeup in the March issue owing to Brother Hartman’s yiness and our items were sent In too late the following month for publication In that number. Brothers, let us have your notes in time so we can arrange and get them to St. Louis by the 25th of the month. Also pay up our dues promptly and keep after the nons with or near us until we land them. Cert. 69. Buffalo Division — A good crowd attended the Rochester meeting April 2nd, both morning and even- ing. These meetings are growing and now that the weather has opened we expect to see some of the old L. V. men out, who have been snowed in for the past winter. The meeting at Buffalo was attended by about twenty-five at each session, but there should hav# been a hundred present, espe- cially at times like these. It seems that everyone would want to see and hear what's going on. Several brothers complained of slow legislation in straightening out the rail- road wage question and the unfairness shown our craft and the meeting began to assume a political hue when Chairman Far- rell called a halt as we were drifting away from the real cause of the meeting. How- ever, the question involved was that at elec- tion time labor does not stand squarely Digitized by Google

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674 The Railroad Telegrapher. enough behind the man who support* It and more attention should be given such a mat- ter at the polls hereafter for our own benefit. Bro. Leh and all the old regulars from the L.’ V., and Bro. Farley of the D. L. A W., were in attendance. Our men on the Buffalo Creek, all went out with the switchmen, and although they all returned to their places when the walk- out ended, the situation is still unsettled in their minds what organization they belong to. We were sorry they took such an ap- parently unnecessary step and hope they will get down to business and properly organize in the class they belong. It is very evident that they never will gain anything by be- longing to one organization and being repre- sented and legislated for by another. It is not fair to our Order. Cbrt. 263. Auburn Division — The meeting at Freeville, April 18, 1920, was very poorly attended. Bro. Leh out- lined several mattery of very great interest to all concerned. If you fellows want to know what is going on. you’ve got to come to the meetings, otherwise you're 8. O. L. Our meetings in the future, as now, will be h» ld every two months, but all the meetings will be held so the general chairman will not have to make special trips back and forth over the system as he will have a routine schedule mapped out Tou will be notified by postal when the next meeting is to take place^ Bro. B. J. Lane, of Richford, is very proud of his 16-year-old son, a wireless operator. Recently the ship on which he is stationed became in great peril, and through his per- sistent efforts in handling his "SOS,” he was able to obtain help and received a com- mendatory letter from his employers for this act Bro. Ailing is being relieved by Shakes- peare for three months. Bro. Mott's wife. South Bay. who has been very 111. is now able to be up and around. Hanners. Smithboro ; Green, Dryden ; Tim- merman, Extra, and Shakespeare, Groton, are our only delinquents. Keep after them, brothers, until they shell out. Also the two “nons" — Thompson and Swartout — and don’t forget that “No card, no favors ” will gen- erally make them come to time. 9 Cert. 280. Lehlghton, and Adam Fields, Penn Haves Junction, into our ranks. Brother Brown, West End Tunnel, served as a grand Juror at Flemlngton, N. J., re- cently. Wire Chief Groman, Bethlehem mala office, and his crack bowling team trounced Knittle's Pets of A Wen town recently, both at home and abroad. Even Bro. Snyder's whistles and goats couldn’t stem the tide. Some of #ie "cheerful takers” among the ticket agents and their assistants who re- ceived their back pay checks recently have not yet shown their appreciation for the efforts the O. R. T. has made in securing this result. The railroad officials could not see that they were entitled to Supplement It rates and working conditions until they were shown by General Chairman Leh. The least expected of them is that they obtain up-to- date cards. Sooner or latter they may see “the handwriting an the wall/* and their "SOS” cries may not be heard. Brother Tehl is assistant clerk at Pemen- ton and Bro. Mincham at Slatington. Relief Agent Bro. Conover’s position has been abolished. Dave will probably claim Manvllle agency. Bro. Meyers, second Port Reading Junc- tion, a member of the Safety Committee at the last meeting in the superintendent’s office, presented some very good suggestions, which were adopted. General Chairman Leh has advised all local chairmen that the I. B. E. W. organi- zation is the representative of the linemen on this road and that the O. R. T. can no longer legislate for them. This is due to the fact that the national agreement of the Federated Crafts is their schedule and the I. B. E. W., being a party to that federation, holds jurisdiction over this class erf men. However, these brother linemen who wish to keep up their insurance can do so by pay- ing the minimum membership dues, for mem- bers not holding positions covered by Sup- plement No. 18 to G. O. 27. For want of notes and a little co-opera- tion from you readers It has been Impos- sible for me to furnish any writeup for sev- eral months. I consider that I have done my ”blt” for over a year. Bro. L. T; Helper, of Lehighton, has volunteered to take the position commencing next month. Send him all the notes you can. Cbrt. M- New Jersey and Lehigh Division — Our annual banquet held at Hotel Trayler this year was a success. Treasurer Bro. Williamson reported at the March meeting that the net receipts amounting to $30 had been deposited in bank. Bro. John Lutz, of Lehighton is now ticket agent at Allentown main passenger station. We welcome Bros. Charles Hciselmoyer. El Paso & southwestern Ry., Div. 187. The response to my recent circular, malted only to those actively engaged, requesting a voluntary ' contribution to defray my ex- penses' to and lost time, incident to xhy trip to Washington, was very fine. Notice has been served on the general manager, requesting that the employes tam- ing within the Telegrapher?’ schedule be re- lieved from handling the U. 8. mall betwta® Digitized by Googk

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Th^ Railroad Telegbaphbb. 675 depots and postoffices, and between depots of connecting lines where the service is being performed by ouri members. The railroads are now being compensated by the Govern- ment for the time consumed by the employes In this work. The new Labor Board, now meeting in Washington, will shortly be lo- cated In Chicago, and our president and his assistants will represent all the men In our department. Ve must support and assist them by lining up solidly. I recently made a trip to Alamogordo to investigate the condition of Bro. J. U. Mal- phurs. Alamo third. He was relieved by Bro. Reeder on an extended vacation for his health, and the organization is contributing $50 per month to assist him. He came to us with a line record from the Atlantic Coast and Seaboard Air Lines. Arrangements have been made to place his son Albert on the road. Our thanks are due the railroad officials for their assistance in taking care of Bro. Malphurs case. In the case of the second trick operator In “SW” El Paso, a decision has been rendered favorable to our contentions and the boys who have worked on this position will re- ceive some back pay. It Is now Bro. Eld win H. Shirk, Tucson second. Mr. Sands, Columbus, the only “non” left on the Western Division, will line up again shortly. There are just a few out on the E&stern Division yet. Brothers, we should see that they come in and help us to get a just settle- ment for them as well as ourselves. Vaughn relieved Neal on Duran third, who succeeded Bro. Maurice, on Orogrande third, who succeeded Bro. Keeling on' Three Rivers second, latter taking third there. C. M, Armstrong, G. C. Western Division— Bro. Hopkins, second Fairbanks, was off a few days getting his tonsils treated. Business, except passenger traffic, was completely tied up on this division during the switchmen's strike. Some of the train- men at Douglas arid Bisbee also went out. It is now Bro. Shirk, second Tucson, again. Gands, Columbus, is still out Don't forget to send $1 to Bro. Armstrong at Vaughn. New Mex., to help defray his ex- penses and reimburse him for lost time on his trip to Washington on February 28th to attend the general chairmen's meeting; and don*t overlook sending a year’s subscription to Labor, published weekly by the Plumb Plan League at Washington. Brothers, remember that our committee has done everything it possibly could for us, and every member get behind the committee with a boost and stay there. “Knocking’' only creates more knocks and get you no- where. Election time is drawing near and the capitalists are spending millions to elect their candidates. Forget parties and vote for the known friends of labor. Money oan nominate the capitalist’s candidates but can- not elect them if labor will vote for the man instead of the party. General Chairman Armstrong advises that there Is $280 in the fund for relief of sick and distressed brothers and sisters and that a contribution of $1 from each of us will replenish this fund. Send it to him. Cbht. 213. San Antonio & A. P. R. R., Dlv. 141. Division 141 has experienced many changes since the railroads have been re- turned to their owners. I have never before worked with a more congenial bunch. Tt is a pleasure to know that you have the co- operation of all the boys in the discharge of your duties and pleasing to know they are willing to assist each other for the benefit of the service. (The system that never fails to win friendship and keep it.) Bro.'R. O. Little, secretary and treasurer, is now with* the Humble Oil Co., working a pipeline job, telegraphing. Bro. J. M. Sulli- van succeeded him on first ”WX” Wallis tower with Bro. C. H. Hammond on second and Bro. C. Derr “Ky" Kennedy on third there. Bro. C. Derr, second Wallis tower, re- cently fell off a motor car en route to a sig- nal with a maintainer, breaking his left arm and large toe on right foot and otherwise bruising himself up, ivhich kept him off some three weeks. He is improving and now working third Wallis, vice Bro. C. A. Hall, now at Eagle Lake. Bro J. G. Thomas is now agent there. Bro. F. E. Meissel. Sublime, is In Halletts- ville Hospital, having undergone several operations during the past two months. Bro. A. E. Outler Is relieving him. Bro. B. L. Hale opened up “ND” Houston freight house. Bro. E. C. Cole, blew into “Q" Toakum recently and is now demonstrating his new bug. Bro. H. C. Holcak, relief agent bid in Kerrville agency, vice Bro. L. D. Lowther, going to Alice, vice Bro. R. B. Taylor, who resumed at Beeville. Bro. J. F. Jolly, “WS" San Antonio, went to Skidmore as agent vice Bro. H. P. Allen resumed Luling agency. Bro. J. C. Cherry, relieved at Rock Port by Bro. B. F. Ober, took Rockdale. Bro. L. N. Lyon, Houston agency, relieved Bro. W. E. Trantham. first Kennedy, at Cuero agency by Bro. H. C. Link, and went to West Point agency, suc- ceeded by Bro. R. E. Buckles, extra dis- patcher, Toakum. as chief operator “Q" Toakum chief operator. If the brothers will send In a few lines Dii ' zed by Google

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<57(5 The .Railroad Telegrapher. each month I will try to keep our division represented monthly in The Telegrapher. Cert. 321. Atlanta, B’ghm & Atlantic R. R. Div. 146. Brunswick Division — Bro. J. W. Boswell is back at Woodland agency after a siege with the “flu.” Bro. Frank Calahan, agent, Rupert, was also off several days with the same malady. General Chairman Gorman is being re- lieved by Bro. W. E. Boswell, relieved by Bro. W. I. Smith. Bro. William Blanton was called away during the first of the war serving in the signal corps of the army. He was stationed in France and Germany. We are all glad to see the “oldtimer“ back again. He is now on* second “UN.” Bro. Smith, agent, Douglas, bid in Vienna. Bro. P. H. S. English, Oglethorpe freight and Bro. Terry, second Shops, Alma agency. Bro. Hancock resigned to follow “Beck.” Bro. Webster, second Shops, appointed pas- senger and ticket agent, Brunswick. Bro. "KC” Jones, an oldtimer from the G. C. & P.. bid in clerk-operator, Alma agency. Boys, let’s see if we can’t have a writeup every month. Certs. 330 and 561. Western Pacific R. R., Div. 153. Eastern Division — Bro. Guy M. Blair, Elko, Nev., is acting G. S. & T., vice Bro. H. B. Marshall, re- signed on account of being appointed travel- ing freight and passenger agent. Western Division. Bro. Twyraan from Shatter has gone with “The Katy,” succeeded as local chairman by Bro. Grauvogel. Bro. A. M. Lamberty, Elko, Nev., has re- turned from two wars. World and Matri- mony, unhurt as yet. Send in your notes, boys. Lambertt, Cert' 236. Western Division — Our March meeting at Sacramento at- tended by twenty-one members. We were pleased to see more of the members taking active part in discussions and hope more will attend In future. Bro. O. S. Aldrich, agent, Calneva, re- lieved two weeks by H. F. McKelvey, a new man, who also relieved Bros. Ford and Long a few days. Bro. S. H. Crowe relieved Agent Stahlnecker, Spring Garden, several days. General Chairman Breeding unable to get relief and visit Eastern Division as antici- pated. Bro. G. A. Mosher bid in Gerlach second and Bro. Stack, first Marysville. Bro. N. C. Nelson, Portola, spent a week in Fresno recently. The dispatchers are complaining of poor service given, especially nights. We have worked long and earnestly for the eight- hour day, and each member should take pride in being “on the job” during his or her eight-hour shift We believe all live mem- bers have and others should wake up to the realization that we should do this, not only from the standpoint of service expected by the .company, but for good of the organisa- tion. » Cert. 22. Rutland Ry^ Div. 157. My report to Chairman Clark, dated March 31, 1920, show’s a great improvement over former years. At the close of 1913 we had only forty-two members in good standing and 332.42 in the treasury. In 1919 we doubled our membership. March Slat we had ninety-one members paid up to June 10, 1920, and only four delinquents. All bills paid and 4,106.89 in the treasury. Our new- agreement with the management, signed February 21, 1920, is the best one yet. Working conditions have been greatly improved, rates preserved as granted by the Government, and some new positions added to the list covered by our schedule. A few. which the management wduld not add, have been referred to the wage board. Printing the tiew schedules has been with- held pending the decision of the board, as we want to show them all when they are sent out. H. R. Clark, Jr., filled out his blanks as Soon as he passed the railroad examinations and handed them over to “Dad” for bis ap- proval. We are expecting Bro. Tryon to lead his eon in the right path also. Bro. Fagan is dabbling around the super- intendent’s signature in “RD.” and, no doubt, will soon be working on the sheets. We hope “Bill” and Bro. Amblo can get the “fat fellow.” We think the rest will then follow. Members who have, regular positions, when placed at some other station temporarily . will be allowed 93 extra per day for ex- penses. Don’t forget to show it on your pay- roll. We had the old rate of 31 per day doubled under the new schedule. CERT. 134. *7 Florida East Coast R. R., Div. 160. Bro. F. W. Moore writes he will return to work this summer and sends 73’s to all. Bro. Beville, Arch Creek, on six months’ leave, relieved by Bro. Cabot. Bro. K. S. Jones, second Buena- Vista, gone north for few weeks. Bro. Ferrell bid in first West Palm Beset Bro. Pratt, second, and Bra Cooper, thir£ Stuart. Bro. Bill . Johnson on second Ft Lauderdale. The scribes on the Northern Division U* busy to send notes. A. F. Bauer, General Chairman. Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Kailkoad Telegrapher. . 677 Northwestern Pacific Ry., Div. 165. Northern Division — How about the co-operative store move- ment to reduce the high cost of living, etc.?' We all extend our sincere sympathy to Bro. Holt of South Bay, whose father dropped dead in Loleta Theatre on March 11th. Bro. Supon, San Rafael, is doing relief work on this division. Bro. Lofholm, assistant agent Loleta, who had an abscess removed from one of his kid- neys, has returned home after convalescing ten weeks in Sequoia Hospital, Eureka. It will be several weeks yet before he can re- sume his duties. Congratulations to Bro. Durnford, assist- ant agent South Bay, who was married March 27th. The only non on this end is located at Scotia. Someone near there see that he re- deems his promise to join shortly and don't forget: “No card, no favors ” Cert. 78. Southern Division — We had a fair attendance at our last meeting held in Petaluma, but more should have been there. General Chairman San- born gave us an interesting account of the doings at Washington, D. C., all of which you are now familiar with through the pages of our Journal. He also related some of his experiences in Washington and New York, which we all enjoyed hearing. These meetings are always interesting and instructive and the members should make special efforts to be present. It's our only way of keeping in personal touch with each other and tends to make us better Order men when we can meet each brother person- ally and know that he is shoulder to shoulder with us. Next to our regular meetings as a method of keeping us in touch with one another, are the circular letters which should be sent out by the general chairman or secretary after each meeting. Then the loyal brothers who could not be present will know what has been discussed and the action taken. Remember, brothers, we must remain solidly organized. Have the few delinquents with or near you pay up at once. Bro. Seaton is off securing members for the proposed co-operative store. Subscribe to this movement, and boost it all you pos- sibly can. These stores have succeeded in other places and can here. D. T. Ryan from San Francisco freight office bid in Willits agency. Get him to sign up at once and any other non you hear of. Most of the boys and some girls are visit- ing the instruction car at Sausalito. One day there were 37 operators and agents there. That's more than we ever had at any of our O. R. T. meetings. Let's have more present at our meetings hereafter. I received no items this month. Cert. 106. Georgia & Florida Ry., Div. 167. Bro. J. P. Byne bid in Rosier agent- operator. Bro. Rush has returned to Hazelhur^t after a month’s lay off, relieved by Bro. J. A. Walker. Bro. A. L. Dryden is now operator day, vice Swalnsboro. Two new men on the tricks at Douglas. We have new chairmen and each member should assist them to make all possible im- provement so we can get on a scale with the other roads in this part of the country. Anything you think would be for the good of the Order take up with Bro. H. II. Thompson or Bro. D. F. Ru$h, explaining fully. Cert. 77. Central Vermont R. R., Div. 171. The high water this year has been the worst this division has experienced for many years. The company is waiting for the flood to subside to recover the bridge at Brattleboro, that has not yet been re- placed. Both the Central Vermont and Boston & Maine passenger trains were three to four hours late daily, and freight trains were not run at all for over a week, the latter en route to New London going via Dole Junction and B. & $£. Iron, our track be- ing so badly washed away that It will take a great part of this spring and summer to repair it. Bro. Joyal was married April 19 to M*is Blanche Guild of Windsor. They will re- side there for some time. We all extend our best wishes and congratulations. Bro. Fenton, chief dispatcher, has returned to New London after several months’ rest recuperating from an attack of the “flu.” Send me a few notes for next issue. J. F. Flanagan, Cert. 151. Oregon Short Line R. R., Div. 172. Idaho Division — Bro. Peabody, agent Banks, expects to take leave this summer to assist Mrs. E. J. Peabody, who has resigned there and pur- chased the Lakeview Hotel at McCall. Bro. Myers, agent McCall, has purchased a tug boat, fitted it up with a marine engine to tow logs for Hoff & Brown while the lake is open. His son-in-law is to run the sta- tion meanwhile. Bro. Schinzler, relieved on first Bliss by Bro. Humphreys, Utah Division, is back on second Bliss, vice Bro. Watts to third American Falls. Bro. Dilley, proving up on his dry farm at Hailey, .relieved on second Gooding 30 days by Bro. Vanderbilt, third Reverse, and he by Sister Story from Orchard. One of our famous nons discharged for mishandling train orders. They are grad- ually being weeded out. Keep after Alley Digitized by Google

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678 The Railroad Telegrapher. and Moreland at Gooding; Mattson at Rich- Held and Jolllneau at Nampa. Bro. Shaw has taken the new agency at Cabarton, relieved by Davenport, a new man, on second Caldwell. Bro. Crandall, Homedale, has been given a helper. Bno. Defter, first Weiser, Is being relieved ninety days by Faust, a new man. Bro. G. C. McPeek has returned and is now relieving Bro. Barry, agent Emmett. Bro. McKittrick, who relieved the agent at Brogan, has returned to second Nampa, re- lieved by Bro. Gambill. Bro. W. P. Escue, second Ontario, Is now in a bank there, relieved by B. J. Leonard, a returned Veteran. We regret to announoe the resignation of Local Chairman Lefler, Weiser, Idaho, who is now assistant cashier in a bank there. He has done wonderful work on this division. We hope to secure another who will look after our interests as well. , R. W. Schinzler. New Orleans Gt Nor, R. R.f Div. 179. At the meeting held at Columbia, Miss., on March 20th, arrangements were made to hold a regular one there the third Saturday of each month beginning with April as that is the most central point for the division, and with the train service we have, mem- bers from any district can attend and reach home before noon the following day. It also has adequate hotel facilities and other con- veniences, and I think all will agree that it is the LOGICAL POINT. So in the future on third Saturdays let your slogan be: “I AM COLUMBIA BOUND, AND CAN’T BE TURNED ’ROUND.’* With apologies to the author of “Preacher in the Pulpit.** A little later we hope to have a banquet there or some other point, something “SWELL,** dontcherno? WHAT! Laughing already? Well, “can it” and let me finish. I was going to describe the “good eats” and “good smokes” when you interrupted. GEE! but won't it be some inducement to get the boys out? We would like to know how many can attend. WAIT! WAIT! ORDER, PLEASE! DON’T ALL SPEAK AT ONCE! I see it will take one "baked whale” and a carload of “Virginia Extras” to take care of the banquet boys. We will name the date later, but in the meantime attend the meet- ings and help plan how to catch the whale. John M. Parker, Louisiana’s new governor, in a recent speech said: * Labor has the ab- solute right to organize and bargain col- lectively. Labor is as Jealous of its rights as capital is of Its rights. Each is abso- lutely dependent upon the other, and instead of a spirit of animosity or open hostility, a real spirit of co-operation should exist.” Some of the boys were “flashing big rotts" during the latter part of March when they, cashed in back-pay checks under Supple- ment 13 to G. O. 27. Cm. 16. Chflo. T.-H. & 8. E., Div. 180. Illinois Division- Meeting called at Danville, Ills., April 5th, by General Chairman PowelL Understand the attendance very light account of the weather. Bro. Oliver is again on third West Dana after three weeks’ illness, relieved by J. C. Lucas, a new man, who has promised to join. Bro. Chapman Blanford relieved a few days by Bro. Armstrong, owing to the seri- ous illness of his wife, who we are glad to learn is recovering. Sister Wright. St. Bernice, relieved a few days by Miss Peer. Stockland, second and third cut-off, Osmon relieving Bro. Malone, second West Dana, who bid in third Belt Junction, Bro. Per- ryoman going to second Latta. Bro. Page, third West Clinton, was cut off during the strike. No business. Bro. Wm. Ogden relieved Bro. Powell in “DX” April 10th while he was attending the funeral of Bro. Tolliver’s daughter at Odon. The bereaved have our sympathy in their affliction and sorrow. It Is now Bro. Mlljour on first at Webster. “D,” we are glad to have you with us. Local Chairman Blythe of this division at- tended the Terre Haute meeting April 10th. A very nice one but attendance very light only tw'o members from Division ISO being present. Keep all lights burning and everybody be on the job. Watch your head, boys, that It don’t get cut off. The family of our late brother, W. A Ogden, desire to thank the brothers for the beautiful flowers presented at his funeral. Div. Cob. Mo. & North Ark. Ry., Div. 182. R. D. Pierce is back at Wheaton. E. F. Stewart to cashier, Berryville. R W. Bailey to Shirley, and G. R. Russell to St Joe on bids. G. R. Kinscloe to Aubrey and J. M* Johnson to Moro agencies. No bids. General Chairman Brasfield spent April 7 th and 8 th In Harrison adjusting grievances and endeavoring to have our members en- tirely relieved of handling the mail. Ye scribe was checked in G. O. ticket office May 1st Brothers, please remit your dues to the general secretary and treasury promptly. Remember we have a better contract than lots of other roads and should show our ap- preciation by keeping lined up. * “Steve/* L. C„ Cert Digitized by Google

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CRAND DIVISION Assessment No. 145 Is due January 1, 1920 Time for payment expires February 29, 1920 AMOUNT OF ASSESSMENTS On $ 300.00 (Series A) $2.40 per year On 500.00 (Series Bj 3.60 per year On 1,000.00 (Series C) T. \ 7.20 per year BENEFITS PAID IN APRIL Claim No. Name Cause 3101.. John T. Spencer Heart disease 3185.. James Robertson Carcinoma intestines 3186.. Andrew J. Jones Influenza 3187.. David R. Warren Pneumonia 3188.. Thomas Allen Influenza 3169. .Russell E. Hickman Electrocuted 3190. .Lin wood M. Simpler Myocarditis 3191.. James H. Mortimer Pneumonia 3192.. Andrew Scroeder Chronic endocarditis 3193.. William l* Burgess Influenza 3194.. Frank O Johnson Influenza 3196.. Peter L. Berg Influenza 3196.. Harry N. Harper Pneumonia 3197. .L. G. Mortssette Murdered 3198.. W. A. Murray Myocarditis 3199.. 5.muel B. Mays * .Appendicitis 3200.. John W. McCormack Diabetes mellitus 3201.. Howard B. Segur Uremia coma 3202. .Jesse W. Mays Pneumonia 3203. .Ernest W. Lewis Cancer of stomach 3204.. L. S. Stephens Tuberculosis 3205. .John T. Alexander Effects of operation 3207.. Robert S. Loving Asthma 3208. .Charles E. Wilson Lagrippe 3209. .Charles E. Dickinson Apoplexy 3210. .James R. Walters Pneumonia 3211.. George A. Barney Tuberculosis 3218 James G. Oatis Chronic appendicitis 3213. .Theodore Gaston Struck by train 3214.. 5. B. Sweet Diabetes 3215. .Harry J. Marshall Influenza 3216. .Thomas P. Bishop Tuberculosis 3217 Harry A. Fulmer Accidental drowning Total * Div. Cert. Series Amount .181.. 60794.. A.. $ 300.00 . 1. .39081.. A., 300.00 , 62.. 26522 A. 300.00 . 46.. 40598.. B. 500.00 . 7. .34017. .B. 500.00 .130. .19721. .B., 500.00 . 17.. 602.. B. 600.00 . 17.. 40598.. B. 500.00 . 91. .39937. .B. 500.00 .130.. 42838.. C.. 1,000.00 .108.. 34073.. C. 1,000.00 .119. .63125. .C. 1,000.00 . 23.. 44601.. C. 1.000.00 . 11.. 60799.. C. 1,000.00 . 1.. 49077.. C. 1.000.00 . 58.. 52998.. A. 300.00 . 29. .34308. .B. 500.00 . 53. .26254.. C. 1.000.00 . 59.. 35535.. C. 1.000.00 . 30.. 57845.. C. 1,000.00 . 26.. 46348. jC. 1,000.00 . 2. .64887. .C. 1,000.00 . 40.. 30008.. A. 300.00 . 17. .56845. .A. 300.00 . 8.. 59824. .A. 300.00 . 31.. 32709.. B. 500.00 .126.. 271. .B. 500.00 . 8.. 28504.. B. 500.00 . 17.. 19675.. C. 1,000.00 .130.. 51952.. C. 1,000 00 . 28. .48517. .C. 1.000.00 . 31.. 61494.. C. 1,000.00 . 9.. 63150.. C. 1,000.00 .$23,100.00 FINANCIAL STATEMENT— MORTUARY FUND RECEIPTS Received on assessments to March 31, 1920 12,579,562.59 Received odkassessments April, 1920 3 574.55 Interest ...^ 57,330.61 $2,640,467.75 DISBURSEMENTS Death claims paid to March 30. 1920 $2,016,827.47 Death claims paid in April 28 100 00 Assessments refunded account rejected applications 4,497.74 Assessments transferred to dues 414.69 Balance on hand credit Mortuary Fund, April 30, 1920 * 596,127.95 C. $2,640,467.75 B. RAWLINS, Digitized by Google

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680 The Railroad Telegrapher. Index to Division Directory Name and Division. No. Name of Division. No. Addison, N. Y Annapolis Royal, N. S Ann Arbor Ry Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Ry Atlanta. Birmingham & Atlantic Ry Atlanta A West Point and Western Ry. of Alabama Atlantic Coast Line R.R. Baltimore & Ohio Ry Baltimore & Ohio—Chicago Terminal. . Bangor A Aroostook Ry Bessemer & Lake Erie Ry Boston & Maine R. R. Boston, Mass Boston, Revere Beach A Lynn R. R Boston Terminal Buffalo, Rochester A Pittsburgh Ry Canadian Government Rys Canadian National Rys., Western Lines Canadian Pacific Ry * Carolina, Clinchfleld A Ohio Ry........ Central New England R. R. Central New York Southern R. R Central of Georgia Ry Central R. R. of New Jersey. . w Centra] Vermont Ry Chesapeake A O^lo Ry Chicago A Alton Ry Chicago A Eastern Illinois Ry Chicago & Northwestern Ry Chicago, Burlington A Quincy Ry Chicago Great Western Ry Chicago, 111 Chicago, Indianapolis A Louisville Ry.. Chicago, Milwaukee & St Paul Ry Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Ry Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Ry Chicago, Terre Haute A Southeastern Ry Cincinnati, Indianapolis & Western Ry. Cleveland. Cincinnati, Chloago & St Louis Ry Cobalt Ont Colorado A Southern R. R Danville A Western Ry Delaware A Hudson Ry Delaware, Lackawanna A Western R. R. Denver A Rio Grande Ry Denver A Salt Lake R. R Denver Union Terminal Detroit. Toledo & Ironton Ry Duluth, South Shore A Atlantic Ry El Pa so A Southwestern Ry Erie Ry Florida East Coast Ry Fort Smith A Western R. R Fort Worth A Denver City Ry Georgia Ry Georgia A Florida Ry Georgia, Florida & Alabama Ry Georgia Southern & Florida Ry Glace Bay, N. S Grand Trunk Ry Grand Trunk Pacific Ry Great Northern Ry Green Bay A Western Ry Gulf Coast Lines Gulf, Mobile A Northern Ry Gulf A Ship Island and Mississippi Cen- tral R. R Hamilton. Ont Hocking Valley Ry Hudson A Manhattan R. R Illinois Central Ry Indianapolis Union A Belt Ry. Com- panies International & Great Northern Ry Kanawha A Michigan Ry Kansas City Southern Ry Kansas City. Mexico & Orient Ry Kansas City Terminal Kentucky A Indiana Terminal R. R 108 lit 164 61 146 63 16 33 83 83 61 41 156 81 29 92 11 43 7 175 29 8 46 45 171 40 168 34 76 37 96 91 9 23 33 180 21 3 99 160 59 12 30 49 79 150 48 116 137 42 160 75 146 50 167 185 56 183 1 1 70 142 166 80 64 155 40 74 36 66 25 118 5 163 65 181 Lake Erie A Western Ry 1M Lehigh A Hudson River Ry 14S Lehigh Valley Ry 124 Lehigh A New England R. R. IS Los Angeles A Salt Lake R. R. Ill Louisville A Nashville R. R 51 Louisiana Railway A Navigation Co... 183 Maine Central Ry 141 Michigan Central Ry II Minneapolis A St. Louis Ry 71 Minneapolis, St. Paul A Sault Ste. Marie Ry Ill Missouri & North Arkansas R. R. 182 Missouri. Kansas A Texas Ry 22 Missouri, Oklahoma A Gulf Ry 174 Missouri Pacific Ry II Mobile A Ohio Ry 24 Nanagarsett Pier R. R 2$ Nashville, Chattanooga A St. Louis Ry. W New Orleans Great Northern R. R..... ITS New York Central Ry., East I New York Central Ry. West IS New York. Chicago A St. Louis Ry — 18 New York, N. Y 44 New York, New Haven A Hartford R. R. 28 New York, Ontario A Western Ry.... 20 Norfolk Southern Ry 147 Norfolk A Western Ry 14 Northern Alabama Ry IS Northern Pacific Ry W Northwestern Pacific Ry 1# dean, N. Y 78 Oregon Short Line 172 Oregon -Washington Ry A Navigation Co. Ill Panama Ry 151 Pennsylvania Lines (East and West).. 17 Pere Marquette Ry *8 Philadelphia A Reading Ry 10 Pittsburgh, Pa. H Pitfsi»urgh & West Virginia R. R B Quebec. Que Ill Queen A Crescent Route (North) 12 Queen A Crescent Route (South) ** Richmond, Fredericksburg A Potomac _ Ry U* Rio Grand Junction R. R. 4f Rio Grand Southern R. R. 49 Rutland Ry. .. W St. Joseph A Grand Island R. R • St. Louis. Iron Mountain A Southern Ry. 21 St. Louis, Mo 2 St. Louls-San Francisco Ry g St. IiOUis. San Francisco A Texas Ry.. 1J7 St. Louis Southwestern Ry 2* San Antonio A Aransas Pass Ry 141 Seaboard Air Line Ry £ Southern Ry. '. JJ Southern Ry. In Mississippi « Southern Pacific, Atlantic System 7* Southern Pacific Ry., Pacific System... « Springfield, Mass ** Spokane. Portland A Seattle System.... 1J4 Temiskaming A Northern Ontario Ry.. JJ Tennessee Central Railroad IJJ Terminal R. R. Association of St Louis. 47 Texas A Pacific Ry 55 Toledo A Ohio Central Ry 17* Tring Junction. Que }*] Trinity & Braxos Valley Ry }}} Ulster A Delaware Ry U* Union Pacific Ry J Virginia. Minn If* Virginian Ry Jj Wabash Ry £ Wabash, Pittsburgh Terminal Ry " Washington. D. {J Western Maryland Ry ** Western Pacific Ry 2JJ West Side Belt Ry * Wheeling A Lake Erie Ry * Yaxoo A Mississippi Valley Ry JJ Zanesville A Western Ry 2* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 681 Official Directory General Offices, St. Louis, Mo. 7th Floor, Missouri State Life Bids., St. Louis, Mo. GRAND OFFICERS. R. J. MANION President St. Louis, Mo. W. T. BROWN First Vice-President 6039 Rhodes Ave., Chicago, 111. G. D. ROBERTSON.... Third Vice-President 14 Delaware Ave., Ottawa, Onb J. M. MEIN... .Deputy President for Canada 24 Ralnsford Road, Toronto, Ont. L M. EDDY ..Fifth Vice-President <20 El Camino Real. Redwood City, Calif. C. B. RAWLINS Grand Secy, and Treas. St. Louis, Mo. T. M. PIERSON Second Vice-President Central Square, N. Y. J. J. DERMODY Fourth Vice-President 4424 9th St., N. W„ Washington, D. C. J. W. ANDERSON Sixth Vice-President 916 Villa Place. Nashville, Tenn. L. J. ROSS Seventh Vice-President Room 8, 1098 Chapel St., New Haven, Conn. BOARD OF DIRECTORS. J. F. Miller, Chairman, 71-72 Gunther Bldg., Fayette and St. Paul Sts., Baltimore, Md. B. E. Nason. Secretary, North Branch, Minn. W. P. Hutchinson, 137 King St, Moncton, N. B. G. E. Soyster, Room 310, Drexel Bank Bldg., 765 Oakwood Blvd., Chicago, 111. H. G. Alexander, 122 Tate St., Greensboro, N. C. ADVERTISING All correspondence pertaining to advertising should be addressed to The W. N. Gates Co., Managers Advertising, Garfield Building, Cleveland, Ohio. Division Directory GRAND DIVISION— Attached membership not confined to any particular railroad or territory. E. J. Manion, President. St. Louis, Mo.; C. B. Rawlins, Grand Secre- tary and Treasurer, St. Louis. Mo. No. 1 — Division covers the Grand Trunk and Grand Trunk Pacific Rys. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. J. T. Eddy, Gen'l Chairman. Grand Trunk Ry., Mar- cellus, Mich.; H. M. Triplett, Gen’l Chair- man, Grand Trunk Pacific Ry., Melville. Sask.; D. L. Shaw, Gen’l S. & T., 867 Waterloo sb, London, Ont. No. 2 — ST. LOUIS, MO.— Meets 8d Monday of each month at 8 p. m., small hall sou.h aide, third floor, Masonic Temple (Odeon bldg.). Grand and Finney aves.. St. Louis, Mo.; L. W. Quick, Chief Telegrapher, 8th floor Star bldg., St. Louis, Mo.; R. J. McElhinney, S. & T., 4110a Arsenal sb, St. Louis, Mo. No. 3 — Division covers C., C., C. & Sb Louis Railway 8ystem. E. Whalen, Gen’l Chair- man, Rte. D, Box 33, Terre Haute, Ind. ; Geo. Lavengood. Gen’l S. & T., 404 Monroe st., Alexandria, Ind. System meeting held at Spencer Hotel, Indianapolis, Ind., sub- ject to call of the Gen’l Chairman. No. 4 — Division covers the C., St. P., M. A. O. Ry. W. J. Llddane, Gen’l Chairman, 540 Dayton Ave., St. Paul, Minn.; D. O. Tenney, Gen'l S. & T., 439 Nicollet ave., Mankato, Minn. No. 6 — Division covers the Kansas City Southern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman; S. Nelson, Gen’l Chairman, 115 State Nab Bank Bldg., Texarkana, Tex. F. E. Young, G. S. & T., 115 State Nat. Bank Bldg., Texarkana. Tex. No. 6 — Division covers the Union Pacific Railroad and St. Joseph & Grand Island R. R. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. E. L. Stump. Gen’l Chairman, 433 Keeline bldg., Omaha, Neb.; John H. Hughey, Jr., Gen'l S. & T., Box 294, Junc- tion City, Kan. Digitized by C ogle

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The Kailkqau Teleghafhek. UQK go. 7 — Division covers the Canadian Pacific Railroad. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. J. M. Mein. Gen’l Chairman. 24 Rainsford Road. Toronto. Ont.; A. E. Chap- man, Chairman Eastern Lines, 268 Pic- cadilly st., London. Ont.; Geo. Gilbert, Chairman Western Lines, Kenora, Ont.; R. C. Wilton, Gen'l S. ft T., Kenora, Ont. No. 2 — Division covers the New York Cen- tral Ry., Bast, Central New York Southern R. R. H. B. Morey, Gen'l Chairman, 1620 Neilson st., Utica, N. Y.; W. P. Mansell, Gen'l 8. ft T.. Corfu, N. Y. No. 9 — Division covers the C. I. ft L. Ry., J. B. Hollon, Gen'l Chairman, 2816 Cornell ave„ Indianapolis. Ind.; F. EL Rees, Gen'l S. ft T., Francesville, Ind. No. Id— Division covers* the Philadelphia ft . Reading Ry. M. A. McNeil, Gen'l Chair- man, 1218 Walnut st., Harrisburg, Pa.; O. L. Farlow, G. S. ft T., 2113 N. Bancroft st., Philadelphia, Pa. No. 11— Division covers the Canadian Gov- ernment Rye. J. J. Trainor, Gen'l Chair- man, care of P. B. I. Ry., Charlottetown, P. B. I.; Wm. Parsons, Gen’l S. ft T., St. Romuald d'Etchemln, Que. No. 12 — Division covers the Delaware ft Hud- son Ry. System, Quebec, Montreal ft Southern and NapierviUe Junction Rys. Meetings subject to call of Chairman. G. A. Johnson, Gen'l Chairman, Room 81-22. 121 North Pearl at.. Albany, N. Y.; J. G. Maloufn. Gen'l Chairman Canadian Lines, Vercheres, Que.; O. C. Benjamin, Gen’l S. ft T.. Clemons, N. Y. No. 18 — Division covers Virginian Ry. H. W. Hix, Gen'l Chairman, Box 18. Salem, Va.; J. E. Goodwin. Gen'l S. ft T.. Box 24, Eggleston, Va. No. 14 — Division covers the Norfolk ft West- ern Railway 8ystera. Meets subject to call of Chairman. H. C. Callaway, Gen'l Chairman, Graham, Va.; J. L. George, Gen'l 8. ft T., Box 402, Roanoke, Va. No. 18— Division covers the Atlantio Coast Line R. R. B. P. Wheeler, Gen'l Chair- man, Oviedo, Fla.; J. H. Williams. Genl S. ft T., 301 Old Dominion Trust Bldg., cor. 9th and Main sts., Richmond, Va. No. lft— Division covers the Michigan Cen- tral Railroad. Meets 2d Monday In each month. Odd Fellows Temple. Michigan and May bury aves., Detroit. Mich.; D. N. Smith. Gen'l Chairman. 606 B. Ann st., Ann Arbor, Mich.; J. H. Staley, Gen'l S. ft T.. Box 922, Welland. Ont. No. 17— Division oovers Pennsylvania Sys- tem. J. F. Miller, Gen'l Chairman, 71-72 Gunther Bldg., Fayette and 8t. Paul sts* Baltimore, Md. J. E. Hindraarch, Chair- man Western Lines, Troy. 111. W. M. Skin- ner, Gen'l S. ft T.. 71-72 Gunther BMg. Fayette and St Paul s its., Baltimore, Ml No. 18— Division oovers the New York. Chi- cago ft St. Louis Railroad System. F. F. Cowley, Gen'l Chairman, 519 W. Lincoln st, Findlay, Ohio; C. O. Crisenberry, a 6. ft T., Knox, Ind. No. 19— Division covers New York Central Railroad West. G. EL Kipp. Gen'l Chair- man. Bla8deil, N. Y.; G. R. Smith. As- sistant Gen'l Chairman. Trenton, Mich.; E. D. Graham, Gen'l 8. A T., Mishawaka, Ind. No. 20— Division covers' the New York. On- tario ft Western Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. L. R. Conner, Gen'l Chairman, Cotteklll, N. Y.; H. D. Pfoor. Gen'l S. ft T.. P. O. Box 28. Jer- myn. Pa. No. 21 — Division covers the Cincinnati. In- dianapolis ft Western Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. J. H. Carter. Genl Chairman, Marshall, Ind.; J. V. Cummins. Q. S. ft T.. 1149 N. Mount st, Indianapolis Ind. No. 22— Division covers Missouri. Kansas A Texas Railway System. W C. Thompson. Gen’l Chairman. Box 1269, Muskogee. Ok la.; F. A. Brown, G. a ft T., Box 291 Coffeyville, Kan. No. 23— Division covers the Chicago. Mil- waukee & St. Paul Railway, Bellingham & Northern Railway, Big Blackfoot Rail- way, Gallatin Valley Railway. Puget Sound & Wiliapa Harbor Railway. Seattle. Port Angeles ft Western Railway and Ta- coma-Eastern Railroad, Davenport, Rock Island ft Northwestern Ry. G. E. Soyster. Gen’l Chairman. Room 310. Drexel Bank bldg., 765 Oak wood blvd., Chicago, I1L; Ed. R. Derrickson, Gen'l S. ft T., Room 110. Drexel Bank bldg., 765 Oakwood blvd. Chicago, HI. No. 24 — Division covers the M. ft O. and Southern Ry. In Mississippi. L. T. Mur- daugh, Gen'l Chairman, 788 N. Royal «L Jackson, Tenn.; C. B. Hendley. Gen'l ft A T., Artesla. Miss. No. 26— Division oovers the International aad Great Northern Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. T. C Berry Gen'l Chairman, 8002 South Presa st. See Antonio, Tex.; D. D. H ungate, Gen'l 8 ft T.. Jewett Tex. Digitized by Google

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The Railboad Telegrapher. 683 No. 26 — Division covers the Wabash Ry. P. H. Unglaub, Gen’l Chairman, 610 W. Col- lege ave., Jacksonville, 111. ; M. E. Fohey, Gen’l 8. ft T., 460 Crane ave., Detroit, Mich. No. 27— Division covers St. Louis Southwest- ern Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. P. D. Neislar, Qen’l Chairman, Box 93, Lamkln, Tex.; C. B. Welch, Gen'l 8. ft T., 8t Francis, Ark. No. 28 — Division covers the Seaboard Air Line Railway System. Meets subject to can of Chairman. W. L. Tidwell. Gen'l Chairman, Helena, Ga.: F. O. Cummlng, Gen'l 8. & T., 16 Dinwiddle st, Ports- mouth. Va. No 29 — Division covers New York. New Haven & Hartford R. R.. Boston Terminal, and Central New England R. R. Meets 1st Friday each month. 8 p. m., In Red Men's Hall, 48 Church st., corner Crown. New Haven. Conn. First Saturday each month, 8 p. m.. In Pilgrim Hall, 694 Washington at, Boston, Mass. Third Friday each month, 7 :S0 p. m., Siegel Bldg., 42 N. Main at, Portchester, N. Y. Third Saturday each month In 8warts Lodge, Odd Fellows Hall. 96 Westminster st.. Providence, * R. I. M. W. Handy, Gen’l Chairman, N. Y., N. H. ft H. R., Box 696, New Haven. Conn. ; S. E. Haseltine, Gen'l Chairman, Boston Terminal, 21 French ave.. So. Braintree, Mass. ; G. S. House, Gen'l Chairman, Cent. New England R. R., Pleasant Valley, N. Y. ; 8. E. Gould, Gen'l Chairman, Narra- gansett Pier R. R., Peacedale, R. L; T. O. Tiger, Gen'l 8. ft T., Box 696, New Haven, Conn. No. 80— Division covers Delaware, Lacka- wanna ft Western R. R. M. M. Farley, Gen’l Chairman, Hallstead, Pa.; C. C. Cooper. G. 8. ft T., 71% 8. Greenbush st, Cortland, N. Y. No. 81 — Division covers the Missouri Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chnlrvnnn. H. J. Mohler. Gen'l Chairman. 267 Field Bldg., cor. Taylor ave* and Olive st, 8t Louis, Mo.; N. 8. Morgan, Gen'l 8. ft T^ 267 Field Bldg, cor. Taylor ave. and Olive st, St Louis, Mo. No. 82 — Division covers the 8t Louis-San Francisco Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. G. Kelso, Gen'l Chairman, 812 Woodruff bldg., Springfield, Mo.; M. T. Fullington, Gen’l 8. ft T.. 812 Woodruff bldg., Springfield, Mo. No. 88 — Division covers the Baltimore ft Ohio Railroad 8ystem. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. B. C. Lewis, Gen'l Chairman, Oakland. Md.; O. E. Marsh, Ass't Gen'l Chairman, 4121 31st st, Oakley Park, Cincinnati, O.; E. A. Shaffer, Gen'l 8. ft T.. Box 988. Oakland. Md. No. 84 — Division covers the Chicago ft East- ern Illinois Railway System. Meets sub- ject to the call of the Chairman. H. H. Sklles, Gen'l Chairman, R. F. D. No. 6. Evansville, Ind.; O. A. Hixon, Gen'l 8. ft T., 606 Jewel at., Danville. 111. No. 85 — Division covers Chicago, Rock Is- land ft Pacific Railway System. W. F. Kay, Gen'l Chairman, Room 1, 804 W. 63d st., v Chicago, 111.; A. A. Dickens,* Vice- Chairman. Jerico, Tex.; W. H. Dunn&m, Gen'l 8. ft T., Room 1, 804 W. 68rd st., Chicago. TO. No. 36— Divtslon covers the Illinois Central Railroad and the Y&soo ft Mississippi Val- ley Railroad. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. A. Mulhall. Gen'l Chairman. Clarkson, Ky.; L. M. Elliott Gen'l Chair- man, Y. ft M. V. Lines, Roiling Forks, Miss.; G. E. Chance, Asa't Gen'l Chairman, Mounds, 111.; R. L. Shannon, Gen'l 8. ft T., Anna. III. No. 37 — Division covers Chicago, Burling- ton ft Quincy Railroad System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. W. F. Denton. Gen'l Chairman. Sterling, Neb.: E. F. Todd. Ass't Gen'l Chairman. Sandwich. TO: J. H. Rogers. Gen'l S. ft T., 1506 Market st. La Crosse. Wis. No. 88, SPRINGFIELD. MASS.— Meets $d Saturday each month 7 p. m.. Moose Club Hall. 19 Lyman st, Springfield. Mass. Frank P. Sargent. Chief TeL, 86 Colton ave., Merrick, Mass.; M. J. Walsh, 8. ft T., 15 Moseley ave., Merrick, Mass. No. 89 — Division covers the Pere Marquette Railroad System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. R. M. Burr, Gen'l Chairman* Central Lake, Mich.; C. P. Neff. Gen'l S. ft T., Lock Box 884, Lowell, Mich. No. 40— Division covers the Chesapeake ft Ohio, Chesapeake ft Ohio of Indiana ^nd the Hocking Valley Rys. L. B. Hicks, Gen'l Chairman, Craigsville, Va.; J. W. Kiser. Gen'l S. ft T., St Albans, W. Va. No. 41 — Division covers Boston ft Maine R. R. Meetings subject to call of Gen'l Chair- man or Local Chairman. J. B. Bode. Gen'l Chairman, 60 Tudor at, Chelsea, Mass.; L. P. Clifton, Ass't Gen'l Chairman, 41 Mor- ton st., Waltham, Mass.; H. L. Jones, Gen’l S. ft T., R. F. D. No. 87, Fremont, N. H. No. 42 — Division covers the Erie Railroad System. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. E. J. Hesser, Gen'l Chairman, 864 Wallace place, Elmira, N. Y. ; C. A. Landy, Asst Gen’l Chairman, Goshen, N. Y. ; C. L. Bridge, Gen’l S. ft T„ 21 Allen st. De- posit N. Y. No. 48— Division covers Canadian National Railways— Western Lines, fleets subject to oali ftf Chairman. W. Phillips, Gen'l Digitized by tjOOQle

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684 The Railroad Telegrapher. Chairman. 522 McIntyre BIk., Winnipeg, Man.; G. H. Palmer, Gen’l S. ft T., Pau- phln, Mari. No. 44. NEW YORK. N. Y. — Meets 2d Satur- day each month at 8 p. m.. In Fraternity Hall, 22 Haniman ave., Jamaica, N. Y.; J. S. Thuma, Chief Tel., 26 Franklin st., Jamaica, N. Y.; L. Meringer, S. & T.. 10142 112th st., Richmond Hill, N. Y. No. 46 — Division covers Central R. R. of New Jersey. Edwin F. Pry, Gen’l Chairman, 918 Center st. East Mauch Chunk, Pa.; Wm. T. Smock, Gen’l S. A T., Wickatunk, N. J. No. 46 — Division covers the Central of Geor- gia Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. H. Livsey, Gen'l Chair- man, Blast Point, Ga.; O. W. Bledsoe, Gen’l S. & T.. Lafayette. Ga. No. 47 — Division covers Terminal R. R. Assn, t of St. Louis. Meets 4th Wednesday, 7:80 p. m.. and following Thursday, 9 a. m., each month, Marquette Hotel, 18th st. and Washington ave., St Louis, Mo. J. F. Seifert, Gen’l Chairman, 4048 Wyoming st, St Louis. Mo.; W. B. Richardson, Gen'l 8. A T., 823 North 18th st, St. Louis, Mo. No. 48 — Division covers the Detroit Toledo A Iron ton Railway. Meets subject to call of Chairman. G. W. Lowery, Gen’l Chair- man, Summithill, Ohio; D. R. Murray. Gen’l S. & T., Good Hope, Ohio. No. 49 — Division covers the Denver & Rio Grande Railway System. Rio Grande Junc- tion R. R., and Rio Grande Southern R. R. Meets subject to call of Chairman. E. A. Compton. Gen’l Chairman, Box 171, Den- ver, Colo.; J. C. Brannon, Gen’l S. & T., 1014 S. Union ave., Pueblo, Colo. No. 60— Division covers the Georgia Ry. W. W. Darden, Gen’l Chairman, Crawford, Ga.; J. P. Luckey, Gen’l S. & T., Dearing, Ga. No. 51— Division covers Bessemer & Lake Erie Railway System. Meets the 4 th Thursday of each month in Eagle’s Hall, Greenville, Pa. C. M. Miller, Gen’l Chair- man, 11 First ave., Greenville, Pa.; E. E. Keane, Gen’l S. AT., Box 103, Greenville, Pa. No. 52. PITTSBURGH, PA.— Meets Satur- day, June 16th, 1918, and each alternating Saturday thereafter at 6:30 p. m., 231-233 Fifth ave., 3d floor, Roberts bldg., Pitts- burgh, Pa. S. G. Phillips, Chief Tel., 2209 7th ave., Beaver Falls, Pa,; R. W. Bees, S. & T., 1417 Huron ave., New Castle, Pa. No. 63 — Division covers Southern Pacific Railway Pacific System. Meets su eject to call of Chairman. T. T. Cull. Gen’l Chair- man, 837 Pacific bldg., San Francisco, Cat; A. M. Hammond, Gen'l S. A T., 837 Pacific bldg., San Francisco, CaL No. 54 — Division covers the Northern Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. Sam Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, North Branch, Minn.; B. EL Nason. Gen’l S. A T.. North Branch. Minn. No. 56— Division covers the Wheeling ft Lake Erie and Wabash Pittsburgh Termi- nal West Side Belt Rys., and Pittsburgh ft West Virginia R. R. Meets 3d Saturday evening of each month at Harmon. Ohio. J. O. Peoples, Gen’l Chairman. Bolivar, Ohio; W. A. Albaugh. Gen’l Chairman P. A W. V. R. R., R. D. 1, Mingo Junction. Ohio; C. E. Baltxer. Gen’l 8. A T., Box 246. Navarre, Ohio. No. 56— Division covers Georgia Southern ft Florida Railway System. G. L. Slebert Gen’l Chairman. Valdosta, Ga.: *F. H. Cas- on. Gen’l S. A T.. Lake City. Fla. No. 57— Division covers Nashville. Chatta- nooga A St. Louis Ry. W. C. Arnold. Gen’l Chairman, 408 Fourth National Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn.; L. C. York. Gen’l S. A T., Box 1374, Atlanta, Ga. No. 58 — Division covers Louisville ft NaA- ville R. R. and L. H. ft St. L. Ry. a K Bryant, Gen’l Chairman. 408 Fourth Na- tional Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn.; a Moneypenny, Gen'l S. ft T., 408 4th Nat Bank bldg., Nashville, Tenn. No. 69— Division covers the Southern. North- ern Alabama and Danville ft Western Railroads. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. H. G. Alexander, Gen’l Chairman, Banner Bldg., Greensboro. N. C.; J. W. Burgess, Gen’l S. & T., 228 Ninth st, & W., Charlottesville, Va. No. 60. WASHINGTON, D. C.— Meets M Wednesday of each month at 8 p. m., at 811 E st., N. W.. Washington, D. CV J. T. McKean. Chief Tel., 220 V st. N. B-. Washington, D. C.; J. Webb Wchman. 8. ft T., 3726 Northampton st, Chevychase, Washington, D. C. No. 61 — Division covers Atchison, Topeka ft Santa Fe Railway System. J. C. High. Gen’l Chairman. 3977 Cottage Grove ave. Chicago, 111.; W. L. Braun, Ass’t Gen’l Chairman, G. C. ft S. F. Linas, Milano, Texas: V. A. Gendron, Gen'l 8eo. ft Tress 3977 Cottage Grove ave., Chicago, 111. No. 62— Division covers the Queen ft Cres- cent Route (North). W. EL Hines. Gen'l Chairman, Danville, Ky.; EL W. Shadoan. Gen’l S. ft T., 584 Jackson st, George- town, Ky. No. 63— Division covers A. ft W. P. and W. of A. R. R. J. A. Kirkland, G. C.. 61 Jack- son st., Newnan, Ga.; M. J. Williams, S. ft T.. 309 Alford st, La Grange, Ga- _ J Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 685 No. 64 — Division covers Gulf ft Ship Island and Miss. Central R. R. R. F. Bass, Gen’l Chairman, Collins, Miss.; M. L. Henry, G. S. ft T.. Pinola, Miss. No. 65 — Kansas City Terminal. Meets 2nd and 4th Saturdays each month at 8 p. m, Roorti 304 Curtice bldg., 813 Walnut, Kan- sas City. Mo. C. H. Allen, Gen’l Chair- man, 2446 Harrison ave., Kansas City Mo.; Frank EL Hancock, Acting Gen't S. ft T., 2038 Jefferson st., Kansas City, Mo. No. 66 — Division covers Indianapolis Unioh ft Belt Railway Companies. Meets third Thursday each month, 7:30 p. m., New Williams Hotel, comer Senate and West Washington st., Indianapolis, Ind. Wm. M. Lindley, Gen’l Chairman. 2209 N. Dela- ware st., Indianapolis, Ind.; E. J. Payne, G. 8. ft T.. 64 Raymond flt., Indianapolis.' Ind. No. 68 — Division covers Lehigh ft New Eng- land Railroad. M. R. Minogue, Gen’l Chairman, Bangor, Pa.; J. R. Cowling, G. S. ft T., Wind Gap, Pa. No. 69 — Division covers the Queen ft Cres- cent Route (South). Meets subject to call of Chairman. C. A. Berry. Gen’l Chair- man, Gibbsland, La.; W. A. Stennett, G. S. ft T.. Lake, Miss. No. 70 — Division covers Great Northern Railway System. O. P. Johnson, Gen’l Chairman, 866 Shubert bldg., St. Paul, Minn.; A. O. Olsen, Gen’l S. ft T., 355 Shubert bldg., St. Paul, Minn. No. 71 — Division covers the Minneapolis ft St Louis Ry. A. L. Gardner, Gen’l Chair- man, Steamboat Rock. Iowa; J. C. Sand- rater, Gen’l S. ft T., Waukee, Iowa. No. 72— Division covers Southern Pacific Ry., Atlantic 8ystem. A. EL Leisure, Gen’l Chairman, No. 622 Ehiclid Ave., Houston, Texas; W. J. Haddon, Gen’1 8. ft T., 232 Stafford st, San Antonio, Tex. No. 73, CHATTANOOGA, TENN.— W. T. Roush, Chief Tel., 241 Vine st., Chatta- nooga, Tenn. ; R. O. Daly, £. ft T., 408 High st, Chattanooga, Tenn. No. 74 — Division covers Hudson & Manhat- tan R. R. H. G. Phelps, Gen’l Chairman, 1786 Lexington ave., New York, N. Y.; J. V. Sheevers. Gen’l S. ft T., 468 W. 58th st.. New York, N. Y. No 76 — Division covers Ft Smith ft West- ern Ry. J. W. Mayden, Gen’l Chairman, Weleetka, Okla.; F. L. Thurman, Gen’l 8. ft T., Dustin, Okla. No. 76 — Division covers Chicago ft North- western R. R. System; Pierre, Rapid City ft Northwestern Ry.; Wyoming ft North- western Ry. Meets subject to call of Gen- eral or Local Chairman. E. J. Thomas, Gen’l Chairman. Suite 647-548 Webster bldg., 827 S. LaSalle st., Chicago, 111.; R. B. Boylngton, Gen’l S. ft T., Suite 547-648 Webster bldg., 327 S. LaSalle st., Chicago, 111. Chicago Terminal Levermen meet third Tuesday of each month at 10 a. m. and 8 p. m., 180 West Washington st., Chi- cago, 111. No. 78— OLEAN, N. Y.— G. E. Jenson, Chief Telegrapher, 203 Mechanic st, Smethport, Pa. F. V. Worden, S. ft T„ Horneil, N. Y. No. 79 — Division covers Denver ft Salt Lake R. R. F. W. Weasel, General Chairman, Fraser. Colo.; A. E. Woodworth, G. S. ft T.. Tolland. Colo. No. 80 — Division covers the Gulf, Mobile ft Northern Ry. T. R. Craig, Gen’l Chair- man. Montezuma, Tenn.; H. C. Hughes, Gen’l S. ft T., New Augusta, Miss. No. 81 — Division covers Boston, Revere Beach ft Lynn R. R. Wm. J. O’Connell, Gen’l Chairman, 876 Frankfort st., Etest Boston, Mass.; C. N. Emerson, Gen’l S. ft T., 176 Leyden st, Elast Boston, Mass. No. 82 — Division covers Western Maryland Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Gen’l Chairman. K. H. Stover. Gen’l Chairman, Piedmont, W. Va.; D. O. Martin, Gen’l S. ft T., Hampstead, Md. No. 83 — Division covers the Bangor ft Aroo- stook Railroad Systems. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. G. R. Lilley, Gen’l Chairman. Sherman Sta., Me.; J.. L. Rob- bins, Gen’l S. ft T., Grindstone, Me. No. 88 — Division covers the Texas ft Pacific Railway System. Meets subject to call of the Chairman. J. P. Abney, Gen’l Chair- man, Weatherford, Tex.; W. A. Canaf&x, Gen’l S. ft T„ Weatherford, Tex. No. 91, CHICAGO. ILL.— Meets 1st Saturday of each month at 8:15 p. m., In Hall 912, Masonic Temple, cor. Randolph and State sts., Chicago, 111. A. Gedan, Chief Tel., 1642 N. Wells st., Chicago, 111.; B. F. Rob- erts, S. ft T., 6317 Greenwood ave., Chi- cago, 111. No. 92 — Division covers the Buffalo, Roches- ter ft Pittsburg Railway System. Meets subject to the call of Chairman. E. H. Eastman, Gen’l Chairman, 532 Wood ave., Du Bois, Pa.; G. H. 8* * T., 1000 E. Mahoning st., Pv\^6^a,waney* **a Digitized by L-ooQle

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686 The Railroad Telegrapher. No. 96 — Division covers Chicago Great West- ern Railway 8ystem. Meets subject to call of Chairman. A. L. Coleman Gen’l Chair* man. 850 Freeman ave.. Kartsas City. Kan.: G. A. Ott, Gen’l S. ft T., Box 88, Deerfield. RL No. 09, COBALT. ONT.— Covers Teralskam- ing & Northern Ontario Ry. Meets on call of Gen'l Chairman. R. Richardson, Chief TeL, Timmins, Ont.; R. Workman, Gen'l Chairman, North Bay, Ont.; J. A. Pelkie, 8. ft T., North Bay, Ont. No. 108, ADDISON. N. Y. — Meets subject to call of Chief Telegrapher. L. L. Lerch. Chief Tel., Knoxville. Pa.; E. C. Cole, 8 ft T.. Westfield. Pa. No. Ill— Division covers Los Angeles ft Salt Lake R. R. Meets subject to call of Chair- man. H. M. Hearn. Gen'l Chairman, Room 227, O. S. L. Station. Salt Lake City, Utah. W. D. McGee, Gen'l S. & T., 8493 Eagle at.. !»*» Angeles. Cal. No. 118 — Division covers the Ulster & Dela- ware System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. G. C. Hedges, Genl Chairman, Ml. Pleasant. N. Y.; G. E. Griffin. G. S. ft T.. Haleottvllle. N. Y. No. 114— ANNAPOLI8 ROYAL. N. 8— H A. Jacques. Chief Tel., Middleton, N. 8.; Stan- ley Tavener, 8. ft T„ Tupperville, Anna Co., N. 8. No. 116 — Division covers Quebec Ry., Light ft Power Co.'s Ry. Meets subject to call of Chairman. E. Richard, Chairman, 199a Crown st.. Quebec, Qtie.; J. E. Potvin, S. ft T., Gtffard, Quebec, Can. No. 116 — Division covers the Duluth, South Shore ft Atlantic Railway System. Meets 2d 8unddy of February, April, June, Au- gust. October and December, in place des- ignated by Gen'l Chairman. P. M. Still- man, Gen'l Chairman, Seney, Mich.; C. W. Danielson, Gen'l S. & T., Chassell, Mich. No. 118 — Division covers Kanawha ft Michi- gan Railway System. A. P. Hines. Gen'l Chairman, R. F. D. 4, Glouster, Ohio; R. M. Henderson, Gen'l S. & T., 839 South st., Toledo, Ohio. No. 119 — Division covers the Minneapolis, St. Paul ft Sault Ste. Marie Railway System. G. W. Lewis, Gen'l Chairman, 2921 Chicago ave., Minneapolis, Minn.; F. C. Paine, Gen'l S. ft T„ Erskine, Minn. No. 129— Division covers Lake Brie ft West- ern Railway System. J. M. Morrow, Gen’l Chairman. 1419 Commerce ave., Indianap- olis, Ind.; M. A. Steckel. Gen'l S. ft T.. Atlanta. Tnd. No. 124 — Division covers Lehigh Valley Rail- way System C. W. Leh Gen’l Chairman 39 N. West, Allentown. Pa.:* M M Crant. Gen'l 8 ft T.. 207 South West st.. Geneva N. Y. No. 128— Division covers Richmond. Prefer* icksburg & Potomac Railway System. Meets at 8 p. m., the 2d Friday of each month, at Fredericksburg. Va. 7L Talbot Gen'l Chairman. R. F. D. 4, Alexandria, Va.; J. C. Farmer. Gen’l 8. ft T.. 712 Hair st., Fredericksburg. Va. No. 127. VIRGINIA. MINN.— Meets second Sunday each month at 2 p. m.. Commu- nity Hall. Alborn Minn. T. A Ciart Chief Tel., Forbes, Minn.; L J. Brouooeau. 8. ft T.. I»ck Box 14, Burnett. Minn. No. 181. THING JUNCTION. QUE.-J. P. '"Gagnon. Chief TeL, 8L Ansel me. Qua; l E. Marcoux, 8. ft T.. Tring Jet., Qua No. 138. GLACE BAY, N. 8.— A. Ferguaoo. Chief Tel., Mira Gut. N. S.; C. H. Dow. 8. ft T., P. O. Box 4. Bridgeport. N. & No. 187— Division covers El Paso ft South- western Railway System. C. U Arm- strong G. C. and 0 8 AT. Vmighti N Mex. ; A. E. Rummel, Ass’t Genl Chair man, Osborn, via Naco. Ana. No. 140 — Division covers Maine Central Rail- road System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. EL J. Hayes, Gen’l Chairman, Leeds Junction. Me.; H. N. Bates. Genl S. ft T., Gardiner. Me. No. 141— Division covers San Antonio ft Aransas Pass Railroad System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. H. H. HepP»r, Acting Gen’l Chairman. Shiner, Tex.; R. 0- Little. Gen'l S. ft T.. Box 806, Wallis. Tex. No. 142 — Division covers the Green Bay ft Western Railway System. Meets subject to call of Chairman. H. R. Olson Genl Chairman, Sturgeon Bay, Win.; L. P. Cur- ran, Gen'l S. ft T., Winona, Minn. No. 144 — Division covers the Trinity A Brazos Valley Railway System. Meets sub- ject to call of Chairman. J. C. Yancey. Gen’l Chairman, Cooledge, Tex.; N. 8* Anderson, Gen'l S. ft T., Tombs 11. Tex. No. 146 — Division covers the Ft, W. ft D. C. Ry. System. G. C. Webster, Gen’l Chair- man, Box 662, Dalhart, Tex.; S. L. Green- wood, G. S. ft T.. Box 192. Bowie, Tex. No. 146— Division covers the Atlanta. Bir- mingham ft Atlantic Ry. System. Meet* subject to call of Gep'l Chairman. Owes D. Gorman, Gen’l Chairman, Mauk, Ga.: f*. A. Pye. Gen'l 8 ft T., Ideal. Go. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. t>87 No. 147 — Division covers the Norfolk South- ern Ry. System. Meets subject to call of Gen'l Chairman.; E. S; Weeks. Gen'l Chair- man. Tuscarora. N. C.; Mies S I) Taylor, Gen’l S. 4k T., Box S56. Richmond, Va. No. its — Division covers Lemgh 'at Hudson River Ry. J. S. Lawrence, Gen'l Chair- man, Chester. N. Y.; Geo. S. Parry. Gen l 8. 4k T.. Buttxvtlle, N. J. No. 150 — Division covers Colorado and South- ern B. R. and Denver Union Terminal. Rufus C. Bonney, Gen'l Chairman, Box 34. Boulder, Colo.; James Muir, Gen'l Chair- man Denver Union Terminal, 809 V6 16th su Denver, Colo.: Wm. McGrath, Gen'l S. ft T., Box 1677, Denver, Colo. No. 163 — Division covers the Western Pacific Ry. V. W. Breeding. Gen'l Chairman 770 Eleventh st, Oakland, Cal.; Guy M. Blair, Acting Q. S. 4k T.. Elko, Nev. No. 166, HAMILTON. ONT.— Covers Toronto, Hamilton & Buffalo Ry. Meets 2d Sunday of each month at 3:30 p. m., in 1. O. O. F. Hall, Temple bldg.. Gore at., Hamilton. Ont. R. P. Nevillis. Chief Tel.. 221 Robinson st., Hamilton. Ont.: E. D. Armstrong, S. 4k T., Burlington Beach, Ont No. 166. BOSTON. MASS.— Meets in Rath- bone Hall, 604 Washington st. Boston. Mass.. 3d Thursday each month 1 p. ra. to 6 p. m. W. T. Roughsedge, Chief Tel., 31 Clayton st, Medford, Mass. ; Herbert Perry, S. St T., 78 Bragdon St., Roxbury. Mass. No. 167 — Division covers the Rutland Ry. Meets 8d Friday each month. Bard well Hotel. Rutland, Vt. H. R. Clarke, Gen’l Chairman, East Dorset, Vt. EX V. Page, Gen'l S. 4k T., Chatham. N. Y. No. 168 — Division covers the Panama Ry. A. V. Loses, Gen'l Chairman, Box 17, Pedi o Miguel, Canal Zone: W. L. Scofield, G. S. 4k T., Pedro Miguel. Canal Zone. No. 160 — Division covers the Florida Bast Coast Ry. A. F. Bauer. Gen’l Chairman. 226 Central ave. Miami. Fla.: J. F. Hol- land. Gen’l S 4k T., East Paiatka. Fla No. 161 — Division covers the O. W. Ry. and N. CO. J. V. Mitchell. Gen’l Chairman. Lillian Apts.. 381 «ixth st.. Portland. Ore. ; O. R. McNabb, G, S. 4k T., 8804 62nd st, 8. EX, Portland, Ore. No. 163 — Division covers the K. C. M. 4k O. Ry. K. C. Pankhurst. Gen’l Chairman. Schulte. Kan.: D. O. Kennedy, Gen’l 8. 4k T.. Clinton Okla. No. 164 — Division covers the Ann Arbor R. R H J. Workman. Gen'l Chairman. Box 69 Frankfort. Mich.; F E. Gum. G. 3. 4k T.. 3111 Eric st.. Toledo. Ohio. No. I6.'» — Division covers the Northwestern Pacific Ry P. G Sanborn. Gen’l Chair- man, 26 Bonita ave., Sauaalito, Cat; L. B. Green, Gen'l 8. 4b T„ Ross, Cat No. 166 — Division covers the Gulf Coast Lines, New Iberia 4k Northern and Houston Beit 4k Terminal Railroads. Meets Laoor Temple. Houston. Tex., subject to call of General Chairman. D. EX Young, Gen’l Chairman, Box 516, Eunice, La.; J. H. Mc- Lane, G. 8. 4k T„ Box “E," La Feria, Tex. No. 167 — Division covers the Georgia 4k Flor- ida Ry. H. H. Thompson, Gen’l Chairman, Swain$boro, Ga. ; D. F. Rush, Gen’l S. 4k T., Haselhurst. Ga. No. 168 — Division covers the C. 4k A. Ry. EX EX Genu, Gen’l Chairman, Braid wood, lit; Thos. Riley, Gen'l S. 4k T., Atlanta, lit No. 171 — Division covers Central Vermont Ry. EL J. Gibbs, Gen'l Chairman, Yantio, Conn.; L. J. Mannie, Gen'l 8. 4k T., St. Alexander Sta., Que. No. 172 — Division covers the Oregon Short Line Ry. J. Stlce, Gen’l Chairman, Poca- tello, Idaho; S. B. Summers, Gen’l 8. 4k T., Roy, Utah. No. 173 — Division covers the T. 4k O. C. and Z. 4k W. R. R. F. H. Simon. Gen’l Chair- man, Raymond, Ohio; C. B. Moore, Gen’l Chairman, Z. 4k W. R. R., SatiUo. Ohio; W. T. Cox, Gen’l S. 4k T.. 1061 PSlmwood ave., Toledo, Ohio. No. 174 — Division covers the Missouri, Okla- homa 4k Gulf Ry. W C. Mills, Gen'l Chair- man, Fairjand, Okla.; W. L Williams, Gen’l S. 4k T., 611 Denison st., Muskogee, Okla. No. 176 — Division jcovera the Carolina, Clinchfieid 4k Ohto Ry. A. R. Beam, Gen'l Chairman, Forest City, N. C.; C. G. Tay- lor. Gen’l 8. 4k T., Box 236, Dante, Va. No. 177— Division covers the St. Louis, 8an Francisco 4k Texas Ry. R. L. Beal. Jr.# Gen’l Chairman. 1310 N. Blvd., Ft. Worth, Tex.; T. C. Kelly, G. 8. 4k T., Box 410, Menard. Tex. No. 178— Division covers Tennessee Central Railroad. O. B. Cleveland. Gen'l Chair- man. Lebanon, Tenn.; E. W. Eatherly, Gen’l S 4k T.. Lebanon. Tenn. No 179 — Division covers New Orleans Great Northern R. R. B. Donald Gen'l Chair- man Montlcello. Miss.: F. P. Barron, Gen’l S. 4k T.. Georgetown, Miss. No. t80 — Division covers Chicago, Terre Haute and Southern Ry. J. R. Powell, Gen'l Chairman, Vicksburg, Ind.; W. D. Hyslop, Gen'l S. 4k T., 637 East 16th st., Bedford. Ind. No 181— Division coven* Kentucky 4k Indiana Terminal R. R. M. B. Egan, Gen’l Chainnan. 1726 Portland ave., Louisville, Ky.; W. U Ktlcourse. Gen’l S. 4k T.. 1236 South 17th st., Louisville. Ky. Vo 1X2 — Division covers Missouri 4k North Arkansas R. R. S. E. Brasfleld. Acting Gen’l Chairman and Q% g. ft T„ Searcy, Ark. . Digitized by VjOOQle

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688 The Railroad Telegrapher. No. 188 — Division covers Louisiana Railway A Navigation Co. E. E. Latll, Qen’l Chair* man. 7 Wickliffe Apts., Baton Rouge. La.: L. J. Reynolds, G. S. A T., 855 East Boulevard st.. Baton Rouge. La. No. 184 — Division covers Spdkane, Portland A Seattle System. L. H. Freeland, Acting Gen’l Chairman, Washougal, Wash.; J. W. Beckon, Gen'l S. A T., Carson, Wash. No. 185 — Division covers Georgia, Florida A Alabama Ry. J. W. Keen, Gen’l Chairman, Benevolence, Ga.; J. F. Stephens, Gen’l S. A T., Havana, Fla. TWIN CITY TELEGRAPHERS’ CLUB— Regular meetings 2d and 4th Monday eve- nings of each month. Moose Hall, 18-15 East 6th st., St. Paul. Minn. G. W. Lewis, Pres., 2921 Chicago ave., Minneapolis, Minn.; C. E. Frye, S. & T., 626 Warren st., St. Paul. Minn. CREAM CITY TELEGRAPHERS’ CLUB— Meets the 2d Tuesday of each month in Film Operators’ Hall, 226 Thld st., Mil- waukee, Wis. W. T. Houlehen, Pres., 465 Madison st., Milwaukee, Wis.; R. R. J. Armstrong, S. & T., 617 S£ Paul ave., Milwaukee, Wis. TOPEKA O. R. T. CLUB— Meets the 1st Thursday aftef the 15th of each month in the Chamber of Commerce, Topeka, Kan. E. S. Slrois, President, 1807 West st., To- peka, Kan.; R. D. Stover, Vice-President, 307 Quinton blvd., Topeka, Kan.; G. M. Merritt, Secretary, 300 Orchard st., To- peka, Kan.; W. V. Claybourn, Treasurer. 325 Harrison st., Topeka, Kan. PRETZEL CITY TELEGRAPHERS’ CLUB OF FREEPORT, ILL.— Meets 3d Wednes- day of each month at Ladles and Knights of Security Hall, 107 Stephenson st., Free- port, 111. P. H. Murphy, Pres., 146 Dela- ware st., Freeport, 111.; H. B. Kiester, S. & T., 60 Second st., Freeport, 111. CORT CLUB (Chicago O. R. T. Club)— Meets 1st Saturday of each month in Room 912, Masonic Temple. W. B. Spencer, Pres., 262 N. Washtenaw ave., Chicago, 111. ; A. B. Coats, S. & T., 4626 N. Racine ave., Chicago, 111. DES MOINES O. R. T. CLUB— Meets in Assembly Room, Kirkwood Hotel, Des Moines, Iowa, subject to call of President. E. Bylander, Pres., 1227 E. 18th st., Des Moines, Iowa; S. S. Price, S. A T., Grimes. Iowa. CEDAR RAPIDS O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 8 p. m., the 3rd Friday of each month at Room 12, 2d floor, Dows bldg., cor. 2d ave. and 2d st., Cedar Rapids, Iowa. P. E. Conover, Pres., Low Moor, Iowa; J. L Halpin, S. A T., 612 South Fourteenth st, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. LITTLE ROCK O. R. T. CLUB— Meets sub- ject to call of S. A T. C. C. Jacklin, Pres., Room 224, Union Station, Little Rock, Ark. ; H. W. Gibbs. S. A T.. 516 E. Eighth st., Little Rock, Ark. THE PANHOMA TELEGRAPHERS’ CUTB —Meets Saturday evening following the 21st of each month in Assembly Room, 2d floor City Hall. El Reno, Okla. R. S. Taylor, Pres., Gracemont, Okla.; J. R Goodfellow, Vice -Pres., care Relay Office. El Reno. Okla.; W. R. Wllday. S. A T.. 30 yi East 3rd st., Oklahoma, Okla. EVANSVILLE O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Sunday of each month. L. E. Crandall. Pres., Chrisney, Ind.; McCleary, S. & T.. 712 Mulberry st., Evansville, Ind. THE HOOSIER O. R. T. CLUB — Meets *th Thursday each month at 8 p. m.. Parlor Williams Hotel, Indianapolis, Ind. W. M. Lindley, Pres., 2209 N. Delaware st., Indianapolis, Ind.; W. G. Brenneman, S. A T., 2327 Prospect st., Indianapolis, Ind. THE KANSAS CITY RAILROAD TELEG- RAPHERS’ CLUB— Meets subject to call of President. M. Williams. Pres., 211§ Walnut st., Kansas City, Kan. THE FORT PITT TELEGRAPHERS’ CIAJB OF PITTSBURG — Meets subject to call of Secretary. H. K. Kllngesmith, Pres., 124 Suburban ave., Beechvlew, Pittsburg. Pa. THE HOUSTON O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Thursday night of each month, Hotel Cot- ton, cor. Franklin st. and Captiol ave.. Houston, Tex. Chas. C. Webner. Prea. 425 Mason bldg.. Houston, Tex.; E. B. HiU. Sec’y, 1027 Yale st., Houston, Tex. THE DU-O. R. T. CLUB OF DURAND. MICH.— Meets 1st Thursday each month in I. O. O. F. Hail, Durand, Mich. A K. McNamara, Pres., Drayton Plain, Mich.: H. F. Link, S. & £., Lansing, Mich. THE C. O. O. R. T. CLUB (Co-operative 0. R. T. Club)— Meets 8 p. m., 1st Friday of each month in Red Men’s Hall. South Bend, Ind. O. O. Replogie. Pres.. W East Brdnson st., South Bend, Ind.; D. A Crum, S. A T., 817 Lindsey st.. South Bend, Ind. Digitized by VjOOQle

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Ths Railroad Telegrapher. 689 f&a CHICAGO HEIGHTS TBUSORA- PHER8’ CLUB— Meets 9:30 a. m., 2d Sun- day of each month at Chicago Heights, m., In Trades and Labor Council Hall. J. Welles Begble, Pres., In care Room £36 McCormick bldg., Chicago, 111.; J. C. Mar- «aau, S. A T., St Anne, HI. THE SPRINGFIELD O. R. T. CLUB — Meets 2d Saturday night of each month at St Nicholas Hotel, Springfield, 111. W. Stone, Pres., Marine, 111.; W. R. Endi- cott, 8. A T., 113 E. Jefferson st., Spring- Held, m. THE GOLDEN RULE TELEGRAPHERS' CLUB — Meets 7 p. m., 3d Tuesday of each month at Crowe Hall, corner Broadway and 8eeger aye., Toledo, Ohio. Geo. D. Walker, Pres., 1414 Milburn aye., Toledo, Ohio; R. R. Hudson, S. A T., 832 South, at., Toledo, Ohio. THE MONUMENTAL O. R. T. CLUB— Meets monthly In Baltimore, Md., subject to call of President H. A. Smith, Pres., 4 N. Carey st, Baltimore, Md. ; W. M. Shawen, Sec'y, 3637 Roland aye., Balti- more, Md. THE CARNEGIE, PA.. O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month. Hustler Hall, Carnegie, Pa. C. M. Carl- son, Pres., 57 Fountain ave., Craften, Pa.; J. F. Depoe, 8. A T., 17 Kisxnlt st, Car- negie, Pa. THE STATEN ISLAND O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 4th Thursday each month, 8 p. m., at the Cherokee Club, No. 12 Cross st., Stapleton, S. I., N. T. D. B. McMullen, Pres., 8 Woodland aye., Cranford, N. J.; J. P. Tully, S. A T., 276 Delaware aye., Dongan Hills, N. T. KEYSTONE Q, R. T. CLUB— Meets 7:30 p. m., 1st Monday of each month at Candlers Hall, corner of 71st st and Cot- tage Groye aye., Chicago, 111. L. B. Man- der, Pres., 6362 Ellis aye., Chicago, 111.; R. D. Handschy, S. A T., 7530 Lafayette aye., Chicago, 111. TRI-CITY O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Sunday of each month, 2 p. m., at Odd Fellows Hall, 508 1/3 Brady st., Davenport la. H. E. McKay, Pres., 402 E. 14th st, Dav- enport, la.; W. Glorfleld, Vlce-Pres., 1620 6th st, Rock Island, 111.; J. L. Price, Sec'y- Treas., P. O. Box 403, Rock Island, 111. YELLOWSTONE O. R. T. CLUB— Meets 2d Saturday evening each month at 8 p. m., Christian Science bldg., Glendive, Mont. W. G. Mapes, Pres., Glendive, Mont; H. L. Hitchcock, Sec'y and Treas., Miles City, Mont. 6 Digitized by VjOOQle

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690 The Railroad Telegrapher. General Committee Directory on Railroads Covered by Local Divisions Boston A Albany Hallway — M. J. Walsh, Gen'l Chairman, 15 Moseley ave., Merrick, Mass.; Qeo. P. Alrutz, Secretary General. Committee, 16 Oakdale aye., Westfield, kass. Boston Elevated. Ry. — R. H. Buxton, Gen’l Chairman, 8 Dresden at, Jamaica Plain, Mass. Buffalo A Susquehanna R. R — Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Ry. — H. C. Le Master, Gen’l Chairman, Bath, 111.; R. E. Johnson, Secretary General Committee, Jerseyvllle, 111. Chicago A Western Indiana R R — Chas. H. Shafer, Gen’l Chairman, 239 W. Marquette road, Chicago, 111, Denver Union Terminal — J ames Muir, Chair- man, 809)4 15th st., Denver, Colo. Dominion Atlantic Ry.— C. O. Duncan, Gen’l Chairman, Annapolis Royal, N. S. Duluth, Mlssabe A Northern Railway— W. W. Woodward, Gen’l Chairman, Hibblng, Minn. Elgin, Joliet A Eastern Ry.— W H.. DeLong. Gen’l Chairman, 18 Wood st., West Chi- cago, m. Long Island Railroad — M. O. Howell, Gen'l Chairman, Glen Head, N. Y.; G. D. Camesi, Asst. Gen’l Chairman, Syosset, N. Y.; E. Frank Webb, Secretary General Commit- tee, 28 Amherst ave., Jamaica, N. Y. Pittsburgh A Lake Erie R R— T. H. Alex- ander, Gen’l Chairman, 1229 4th arve., Coraopolis, Pa. Quebec Central Ry.— J. P. Dugal, Gen'l Chairman, Robertson, Que. Toledo, St Inuls A Western Ry.— H. S. Wal- ters, Gen’l Chairman, 821 EL 6th st, Marion, Ind. ; H. A. Carmichael, Secretary General Committee, 226 3rd st.. Charleston. IU. Toronto, Hamilton A Buffalo Ry. — N. C. Burdick, Ylnemount Ont Washington Terminal Co.— W. B. Humphrey, Gen'l Chairman, 616 A st, N. EL, Apt 305, Washington, D. C. General Committee Directory on Railroads Covered by Grand Division Apalachicola Northern — J. A. Flllingim, Gen'l Chairman, Hosford, Fla. Arizona Eastern Railroad — F. M. Medhurst, General Chairman, Solomonvllle, Arizona. Charlotte Harbor A Northern — C. A. Stew- art, General Chairman, care C. H. A N. Ry., Bradley Junction, Fla. Duluth A Iron Range — J. C. Schmid, Gen- eral Chairman, Mesaba, Minn. Detroit A Mackinac — A, C. Sutherland, Gen- eral Chairman, Rose City, Mich. Detroit Bay City A Western — F. J. Wood, Gen’l Chairman, Sandusky, Mich. Gulf, Florida A Alabama — J. L. Wachob, General Chairman, 209 N. Barcelona st, Atmore, Ala. Louisiana A Arkansas -A. L. Barnett, Gen'l Chairman, Mlnden, La. Midland Valley— F. fi. Cawood, General Chairman, Bixby, Okla. Spokane International — W. EL Talmadge. General Chairman, East Port, Idaho. St. Louis A Hannibal R R — T. 8. Clay, Gen'l Chairman, Perry, Mo. Toledo, Peoria A Western — G. E. Ferre* General Chairman, Hamilton. IU. Digitized by Google

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The Rail bo ah Telegrapher. 691 Ladies’ Auxiliary Directory OFFICERS. MRS. KATE E. CARR— Grand President, Box 658, Aberdeen, Wash. MISS CLARA J. BRADY — Grand Secretary- Treasurer, 91 Wood st.. Providence, R. I. MISS VIOLET WILLIAMS— First Grand Vice-President, Lupus, Mo. MISS HORTENSE M. DUNCAN— Second Grand Vice-President, Pelham, N. C. MRS. B. MAE WATSON— Third Grand Vice-President, Fernley, Nev. MRS. IRIS U. HENDERSON— Fourth Grand Vice-President, Raith, Ont., Can. BOARD OF DIRECTORS. , Mrs. Frances CaUis. Chairman, Touisset, Mrs. M. M. Farley. Halls tead, Pa. Mrs. Nina Nason, Secretary, North Branch, Mrs* J H- wlulam8' Wilson, N. C. Minn. Mrs. T. M. Boyd, Oakland, Ore. A correspondence to The Telegrapher should be addressed to C. B. Rawlins, Editor, St. Louis, Mo., so that it will reach him not later than the 5th of the month. a Grand Division— Attached membership not confined to any particular railroad or ter- ritory. Mrs. Kate B. Carr, Grand Presi- dent, Box 668, Aberdeen, Wash.; Miss Clara J/ Brady, Grand Secretary-Treas- urer, 91 Wood st.. Providence, R. L Division 16 — Covers the Atlantic Coast Line R. R. Meets subject to call of the Presi- dent. Mrs. B. F. Wheeler, President Oviedo, Fla.; Mrs. J. H. Williams, Gen’l S. A T., Wilson, N. C. Division 81 — Covers the Missouri Pacific System. Meeting subject to call of the President. Mrs. Chas. M. Bodie, Presi- dent, Benton, Kan.; Sirs. H. C. Harkins, Gen’l S. & T., Lupus, Mo. Division 86— Meets 3d Thursday of each month at 2:30 p. m., in Manheim Hail, 433 Westminster st.. Providence, R. I.; Mrs. Bertha Haddock, President, 111 Narrar gansett st., Edgewood, Providence, R. I.; Miss Clara J. Brady, Gen'l S. A T., 91 Wood st., Providence, R. I. Division 46 — Covers the Central of Georgia Railway System. Meetings subject to call of the President. Mrs. J. H. Randall, Jr., Gen’l S. A T., Smithville. Ga. Division 49 — Covers Denver A Rio Grande Ry. Mrs. Laura B. Johnson, Acting Pres., Parkdale, Colo.; Mrs. Lulu Challls, Acting G. S. A T.. Texas Creek, Colo. Division 53 — Covers the Southern Pacific System. G. H. A 8. A. Ry. Meetings sub- ject to call of the President. Mrs. J. E. Cowgill, President, San Carlos, Cal.; Mrs. F. E. Waters, Gen’l S. A T., Ashland, Ore. Division 76 — Covers the Chicago A North Western Railway System. Meets upon call of the President. Miss Erna L Schneider, President, Dousman, Wis.; Miss Irene O'Cononell, Gpn’l S. A T., 207 W. Sixth st., Marshfield, Wis. Division 44 — Meets 2d Saturday of each month at 8 p. m., in Hall No. 2, Fraternity Hail, 22 Harriman ave., Jamaica, N. Y.; Mrs. A. Filby, President, Vandeveer Park Station, Brooklyn, N. Y.; Mrs. C. Aiken, G. 8. A T„ 99 Lowell ave., Jamaica, N. Y. Local Tacoma— Meets the last Wednesday of each month. Meeting places subject to the discretion of the President, Mrs. Daisy Sherwood, Sixth Avenu* Station, Tacoma, Wash.; Mrs. W. S. Qrov*r» ^^ocal Secre- tary-Treasurer, Nia^^wy, Wash. Digitized by Google

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention Tan Raxlboad Tkjmblafhb. “I certainly will increase that stenographer’s salary; his letters are perfect” Your Salary Can Be Increased Probably Doubled by The “New Way” in Typewriting Typewrite 80 words per minute or more and you will draw big pay. Wherever you are, increased output of finished work will bring the big money — good promotions — the private secretaryships eventually the executive positions. Stenographers who are real typists are wanted by Employers arery where. Poorly trained in typewriting means poorly paid on pay-day. Expert ability means big money — success. LEARN BY MAIL 10 EASY LESSONS 80 to 100 WORDS PER MINUTE OR MONEY RETURNED The trouble hitherto has been that stenographers had no way to improve their typewriting. Ordinary methods left them stranded with but a 30 to 40 word ability. There was no way to overcome the handicap. Now the (<New Way" has changed all this — it opens the door for every stenographer to high in typewriting — to perfect accuracy — to great ease of operation to promotions and Big Pay. Puyd upon an absolutely new idea — special gymnastic exercises for the definite, cultural training of the fingers away from the machine . Marvelously successful. Ten simple lesions, easily completed in spare time. Your daily typewriting improves from .the very start Cost low. Binding guarantee— no pay retained unless expected results are fully realised. rp r r II New Way Booklet describes this revolutionary new system in full detail— JT LiLj • • shows you the way to a transform ability, doubled or trebled salary. Write for it today. FREE! THE TULLOSS SCHOOL ) 275 College Hill* SPRINGFIELD, OHIO | PUmeadns you hm book oo Typewriting. | This incurs no obligation whatever on my part. I The Tull oss School 275 College Hill SPRINGFIELD, OHIO Digitized by V. ■oogl AAJr* M.

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ENTERED AS SRCOND-l’LASS MATTER l N DER ACT OF A FOUST I’l. 1 H 1 2. OX JANUARY 1 '» 1 :t AT T1IF POST OFFICE AT ST. LOUIS, MO. ACCEPTANCE FOR MAILING AT SPECIAL RATE OF POSTAGE PROVIDED FOR IN SECTION 110::. ACT oF OCTOP.FI l L' 1 7, AUTHORIZED ON JULY US, I MS. r"- U: ■ ’ V; ' £fjc (Drber of &atlroab Celegrapbers rR A N lMk/ rS VOLUME XXXVII NUMBER 6 1920 JUNE -Digitized to DOQle

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TP»c OLIVET? Typewriter (pnoanV 1506 Oliver Typewriter Bids. Chicago, III. SEND COU FREE JPOj xnr OT.UTR TYT £ WRITER OOMPAKl l (- Oliver Type .vriter Bid?.. Chkajfc® □ Ship me n rev 01!w N’lne ft>T ftr© dap free keep'' I "ill ray *57 at the rate of fcJ per H to remain in you until fully paid for. M y Shipping point la...... ...... ...... ..... Th i « lie i not place me under any obligation to _ __ t irn th- ' )1 1 v it, 1 will ship it back at your expense at □ P»iC de-luxe catalog ucJ furtlu.- r Information. Was$100-Now$57 v On August 1st the Price Advances to $64 Free Trial — No Money Down! Only $3 a Month If You Decide to Buy \Yc v. ill send you a brand new Oliver Nine direct to your office or home for five days’ free trial; it does not cost you a cent Nor are you under the slightest obligation to buy. We give you the oppor- tunity to be your own sales- man and save $43. You are the sole judge. No salesman need influence you. Tf you decide to keep the Oliver, pay us at the rate of $3 per month. If you do not widi to keep it, we even refund the out-going trans- port it ion char ges j ii.it is all there i-i to our plan. It is simplicity itself. Our Finest Model This Oliver Nine is the finest, the costliest, the most successful model we have ever built If any typewriter is worth $100, it is this hand- some machine — the greatest Oliver triumph. Regardless of price, do not spend one cent upon any typewriter — whether new, second-hand, or rebuilt — do not even rent a machine until you have investigated thor- oughly our p-oposition. Save $43 Now Note the two-way coupon. Send at once for the free-trial Oliver, or for our startling hook entitled “The High Cost of Typewriters — The Reason and the Remedy.” This amazing book exposes the follies of the old selling plans and tells the whole story of the Oliver Rebellion. With it we send a new cata- log, picturing and describing the Oliver Nine. Don’t turn over this page without clipping the coupon. idhn Price, $72 Until /ugusl 1, 1920 f Digitized by Googk

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention The Railroad Telegrapher. 227 Mode of l i Real Shirt That’s what every Signal wearer says. A work shirt that is made for wear and comfort. Neat ap- pearing, well made, tailored to fit. Signal Shirts are properly called America’s Finest ^Vork Shirts. Made in l many patterns, with collar attached , or two detachable laundered collars. Buy from your dealer— or if he has H none in stock send us your size and your dealer’s name. Hilker-Wiechers Mfg. Co. 9 DI246 Mound Avc. RACINE, WIS UNKxNCi l(Q^<ct WARNING: E very Cenuini Signal Shirt has this Trade Mark below the collar band. Without this Trade

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**+■" '"Vs JN 24 1920 | THE RAILROAD I “ TELEGRAPHER'""’ C. B. RAWLINS, Editor and Manager Jllliated with the American Federation of Labor VoL XXXVII JUNE, 1920. No. 6 Our Birthday ON JUNE 9, 1886, about two dozen telegraphers met in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and organized The Order of Railroad Telegraphers, the idea having originated in the mind of the generous and kind-hearted Am- brose D. Thurston, who was first President of the Order. At the inception of the organization, thousands of telegraphers realized that the employes in the telegraph service were the poorest paid class of railroad employes and their conditions of employment would indicate that they were in bond- age, but no sound or logical plan for cementing the railroad telegraphers together had been solved or tried until the father of our organization, Am- brose D. Thurston, inspired the undertaking. Prom this little gathering of twenty-five telegraphers on June 9, 1886, has sprung one of the most powerful and efficient labor organizations in existence. Many years ago the organization found it necessary to change its Constitution to include other classes of railroad employes engaged in work similar to that of teleg- raphy, until today the following classes of employes come under the juris- diction of The Order of Railroad Telegraphers: Telegraphers, train dis- patchers, agents located at railroad stations, towermen, levermen or inter- lockers, tower or train directors, telephone operators and staffmen. There are approximately 85,000 employes who are eligible to membership in the Order employed on the railroads in the United States and six thousand working on the railroads in the Dominion of Canada, and on this, the thirty- fourth birthday of the Order, it is pleasing to state that we have a member- ship of eighty thousand and every effort possible is being put forth to reach our goal of ninety thousand members before June, 192\ our thirty-fifth birthday. ’ Digitized by L^OOQle

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1 694 The Railroad Telegrapher. Report Board of Directors TO THE OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF RAILROAD TELEGRAPHERS. Greetings : Complying with the provisions of the Constitution, your Board of Di- rectors convened at the headquarters of the organization in the City of St Louis, Missouri, on April 15, 1920, with all members present. With the assistance of Howard A. Izard, Expert Accountant, we made a thorough and complete audit of the records and accounts of Brother C. B. Rawlins, Grand Secretary and Treasurer, and found them to be correct with all moneys and property of the organization in his custody properly and accurately accounted for. We found the following amounts to the credit of the various funds of the organization: Mutual Benefit Department 4 811,689.29 Protective Fund 623,330.94 General Fund 92,119.85 Total $1,527,140.08 We commend the Grand Secretary and Treasurer on the able and efficient manner in which he has administered the affairs of his office. It is gratifying to note the continued prosperity of the Order .and all who have contributed to its success are to be commended. Respectfully submitted, J. F. Miller, Chairman. B. E. Nason, Secretary. G. E. Sotster, H. G. Alexander, W. P. Hutchinson. Saint Louis, Missouri, May 18th, 1920. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railrqad Telegrapher. 695 Labor in Politics ' More than conscious of Its responsibility to the cause of Americanism, Labor entered the political arena many months ago as a non-partisan factor. The inspiring word “America” has fcp* more than a century been a sort of an Utopia to many millions of people of other lands. America has stood for a square deal to all classes of people until the recent junker Congress and Senate endeavored by pernicious legislation to take the freedom from part of the people — the freedom of speech and action guaranteed them by the Constitution which was adopted and enacted after an enduring struggle and shedding of blood for many years. The action of Labor entering the political field in order to “elect its friehds and defeat its enemies” has been generally indorsed by the friends of labor, and while labor may not be successful in sending many of its enemies to the “rip track,” it. is quite evident that the producers and workers are going to wield a tremendous influence in the political battle which is now being planned for the autumn elections. President Samuel Gompers of the American Federation of Labor appeared before the Resolutions Committee of the Republican National Convention in Chicago on June 9th and requested that the following labor demands be incorporated In the platform: FOR LIMIT ON INJUNCTIONS. “We pledge our party to maintain the Federal law enacted by congress, securing to the workers the legal right of voluntary association, for mutual protection and welfare, against the unwarrantable issuance of writs of injunction, either prohibitory or mandatory, and guaranteeing the right of trial by jury in alleged contempt cases, committed outside the presence of courts. “Legislation which proposes to make strikes unlawful or to compel the wage earners to submit their grievances or aspirations to courts or to governmental agencies is an invasion of the rights of the wage earners and when enforced makes for indus- trial serfdom or slavery. “We hold that the government should supply information, assistance and counsel, but that It should not attempt by the force of its ovfa. power to stifle or to destroy voluntary relations and policies of mutuality between employers and employes. “The very life and perpetuity of free and democratic institutions are dependent on freedom of speech, of the press and public assemblage and association. We insist that all individuals and groups be responsible for their utterances and actions. These fundamental rights must be set out with clearness and must not be denied or abridged in any manner. “We hold that public employes should not be denied the right of organization. “National preparedness as well as commercial development in keeping with the importance and dignity of our nation, require that we shall have competent and able American seamen. We urge as essential to this purpose the vigorous enforcement of the provisions. AGAINST CHILD LABOR. “We declare that we must put an end to the employment for profit of children under 16 years of age. “We demand that effective steps be taken Immediately to relieve the people of the burden imposed by excessive cost of living and to eradicate permanently the under- lying evils, recognizing fully that no other issue is of deeper interest to the masses of the American people. Digitized by VjOOQle

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696 The Railroad Telegrapher. “As a comprehensive program of such relief and remedy we set forth these demands: • “Co-operation should be encouraged' as an effective means of curbing profiteering To stimulate rapid development of co-operatives the Federal farm loan act should be extended so as to give credit to all properly organized co operatives Just as credit la now given to Individual farmers. “We urge that the United States Department of Labor compile and issue monthly statements of the cost of manufacture of those staple articles which form the basis of calculation in fixing the cost of living. “As a means of aiding anti-profiteering measures the Federal Government should promptly investigate profits and prices. All income and other tax returns should be available for inspection. “It is essential that additional legislation regulating immigration should be enacted, based on two fundamental propositions, namely, that the flow of immigra- tion must not at any time exceed the nations ability to assimilate and Americanize foreigners coming to our shores, and that at no time shall immigration be permitted when there exists an appreciable degree of unemployment. “We demand the observance and enforcement of all the Federal M-Timnm eight- hour laws and their extension to include all civil departments of government. “We favor the enactment of a more comprehensive Federal compensation law, which will embrace all workers who cannot be provided for by state compensation laws, and we demand that workmen's compensation laws be amended to provide more adequately for those incapacitated by industrial accidents or occupational diseases. “We demand the enactment of legislation excluding from interstate commerce the product of convict labor. WOULD REPEAL LAW. “We demand the repeal of the labor provisions of the Cummins-Esch law. “We declare that the congress of the United States should take action to prevent the Federal courts from continuing their usurpation of authority by declaring uncon- stitutional acts passed by congress. “We further urge that judges of all Federal courts shall be elected by the people for terms not exceeding six years. “We declare our unalterable opposition to any exercise of force by the United States in compelling the Mexican people to meet unwarranted and unjust demands of those Americans whose solfe interest is the exploitation of the people and the natural resources of the Mexican nation." The Gompers and Allen Debate Samuel Gompers, president of the American Federation of Labor, and Governor Henry P. Allen, of Kansas, noted as the doctor with the proper prescription to cure the “strike disease,” met in Carnegie Hall, New York City, in Joint debate before a packed house on May 28th. While partisanship flowed freely, it is conceded that the veteran labor leader “floore<i” the Governor in his argument .to take away the in- alienable rights of the workers. The Weekly News Letter of June 5th has the following comment to in reference to this debate: “The campaign of Henry P. Allen, Governor of Kansas, in favor of his “cant- strike” law, was side-tracked by President. Gompers in their Joint debate In thin city. “The Governor has been well press-agented on a rabble-rousing speech that he has been delivering to business men's organizations in the East, but his show wai Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 697 run into a blind siding by President Gompers, who tore to shreds the oratory so com* mon at Citizens' Alliance gatherings 15 years ago. "We don't take away a worker's divine right to quit work,” thundered the "Kansas man, "We want to take away Mr. Gompers* divine right to order men to quit work.'' The Allen partisans cheered. And every one present who has the slightest knowl- edge of trade union methods hooted and laughed. Mammoth Carnegie Hall was packed to the roof when Hon. Alton B. Parker, acting as chairman, introduced President Gompers as the first speaker. In this trade unionist's long career he was never given such an ovation. Up from the main floor to the first, second and third balconies, and to the top gallery, and then downward, across the immense stage, roars of acclaim broke again and again against the rear wall of the great auditorium. It was a tribute and an inspiration accorded few men. And it was answered in kind by the labor chieftain. The trade unionist was aggressive and confident and consumed his time dis- cussing human liberty, in defining the terms "capital" and "labor" and citing history to show that the Kansas act is as old as the proverbial hillst "Our opponents," he said, "confuse capital and labor. Capital is what one has; labor is what one is. "Those who seek a royal road to tranquility should go back to the long ago, when men's ears were cut off when they refused to work. For the second offense they were branded, and for the third offense they were hanged. There are some things worse than strikes, and among them is a degraded manhood. A virile manhood is the van- guard of civilization. "In all ages there has been struggle. All the efforts of old to suppress have failed, and the attempt to renew these laws will meet the fate of former edicts by judges and kings. "We don't need liberty to sing ‘The Star Spangled Banner.' Liberty is the right to own yourself. The man who is a slave or a serf has no liberty." President Gompers referred to Lincoln's approval of this country's recognition of the workers' right to strike. "I prefer," said the speaker, "to align myself with the martyred Lincoln than with any reactionary who favors compulsory arbitration." The Allenites were silent and their opponents cheered. When the roar was dying down another stampede was started by this leather-lunged howl from out of the deep cavern: "That's tellin* 'em, Sammy." President Gompers took no middle ground on the question of a man’s right to own himself. He declared unqualifiedly for the workers’ right to strike, and called the Kansas act "an un-American slave law." He showed that through the strike the worker can impress his demands upon an ejnployer, and how the strike abolished the sweat shops in this state when the law had failed to even minimize this evil. He denounced as a subterfuge the claim that men have the right to quit work as indi- viduals under the Kansas law, and declared that the only ground on which Governor Allen can claim to be right is that our democracy is a failure. ‘This is not an industrial government, it is a political government," said the speaker. "We are sovereign citizens. The right to own ourselves cannot be taken from us by government or by court." President Gompers discussed principles and history. Governor Allen talked on generalities and incidents mainly connected with the Kansas coal miners’ strike of last November. Not once did he strike a fundamental note. He said the Kansas law was based on the theory that "no one unit of production has the right to disturb pro- duction.” President Gompers had referred to this theory and showed where it would eventually lead if rigidly applied, and how the legislature, in passing the law, had Digitized by L^ooQle

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698 The Railroad Tei^grapher. turned its blind eye to the profiteers. Governor Allen Ignored this challenge, but consumed much time in painting oral pictures of three or four incidents that he said were associated with the miners’ strike. These pictures were equally well painted in the Citizen's Alliance literature that flooded the country several years ago. The Governor ignored the principle Involved in the Kansas law. In fact, he seemed blind to principle, for he asked: “Why did union officials start to fight this law before they read it?” Then he painted another picture of a miner who didn't know why he was on strike; who returned to his employment; who was suspended by his local for 99 years; whose family was starving, and how he (the Governor) “went down there and secured work for the miner’s wife.” Then the Governor told how the executives of the*four railroad brotherhoods sat in the galleries in congress with stop watches to force the passage of the Adamson law. This yarn has been repeatedly denied by the brotherhood officials, who have shown that they never asked for the law and did not raise their voice in its behalf. This yarn has been one of the Governor's most effective rabble rousers. In this da st It fell flat and the Governor painted more pictures and talked about justice and brotherhood. The great organ thundered the notes of “America” and the audience was dis- missed. Every trade unionist and sympathizer who could not shake President Gom- pers' hands, shook his own hands and marveled at what/a low plane American states- manship and journalism has fallen when the ages-old scheme of handcuffing workers to their jobs is being advocated in a land dedicated to freedom. The following editorial appearing in the Wichita Eagle of May 20th, appears to substantiate the claim made by Labor that Governor Allen, of Kansas, is one of those peculiar “four flushers” and camouflages who often secure a political office through accident, and after the people become acquainted with the man he is immediately put on the shelf as a “has been.” It is expected that Kansas will repudiate Alienism at its next election: “The Kansas coal mines, except the open pits, have been closed by a strike for a considerable period. There was a dispute about the cost of explosives to the miners, an effort being made by the operators to absorb a portion of the miners’ higher wages by charging them more for explosives. After days of argument and absolute idleness at the mines, the miners have won their point and have consented to go back to work. It is notable that nobody was clapped up in jqil for striking. The Kansas anti- strike law did not operate. The men struck for as long as they pleased, or until they won their point. The business of grabbing the “radical leaders” who objected to the shenanigan tactics of the operators, was not undertaken by the state officials, who even refrained from issuing threats or statements about the strike. When Howat was jailed, the miners struck. They swore they wouldn’t work until Howat was released, and they didn’t. It was thought best to let Howat out, and get some coal dug. It is not yet considered advisable to imprison 4,000 laborers in Kansas, even for the crime of refusing to work. Balls and chains in wholesale quan- tities are not yet available. The Kansas anti-labor law will make good campaign talk only so long as no en- forcement test is of record. So it is best to keep the record blank at present.” Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 699 Political Action in Nebraska The activity displayed in nearly every section of the country by the voters who are deeply interested in the welfare of the Government and the people indicate beyond a peradventure that the bondage of political partisanship jrhich has held the people for many years, is being overcome. *Tis well that the voters are recognizing the “party” is an inanimate organ, and while political “parties” are necessary under our form of Government, the “party” which went into control of junkers and chauvinists means only harm and no good to the. people as a whole. Necessary steps to correct the abuses which are committed under the cloak of “partylsm” are now being taken in the independent non-partisan political movement. The Non-Partisan League, labor and progressive voters, have united in Nebraska in an endeavor to bring back to the people' the Government which has through under- hand and insidious methods, been taken from them. A mass convention was heM in Grand Island, Neb., May 4th last, consisting of independent Republicans and Dem- ocrats, and accredited delegates from the non-partisan party of Nebraska; lodges of the various railroad brotherhoods, the State Federation of Labor and various Cen- tral Unions, the Committee of “48,” the Workers’ Non-Partisan League, several farmer and labor leagues, Farmers* Union Locals, the Woman’s Non-Partisan League Clubs, for the purpose of nominating candidates for various state offices. The candidates will be placed on the ballots by petition, and will run without any “party” designation. Although this is the first time in Nebraska that the farmers and organized labor have united for political action, the selection as standard bearers by the two old parties of Ex-Governor Morehead and Governor McKelvie, both reactionaries, made independent political action certain. The Non-Partisan League and organized labor in particular, and progressive Republicans and Democrats generally are determined to clean house. They are tired of having the state government in the hands of wishy- washy, patrioteer, anti-labor, pro-Chamber of Commerce politicians. Governor S. R. McKelvie, Republican nominee for re-election, received less than one-third of the Republican votes In the recent primary election, but a plurality never- theless, because of the multiplicity ot the candidates t against him. It is freely ad- mitted by the principal Republican papers that had not sickness compelled his with- drawal, Elmer E. Young, the League-Labor candidate, would have received the nom- ination. A state constabulary and an industrial court is McKelvIe’s remedy for labor troubles. The conflict between the farmers and “Big Biz” he would settle by community clubs and “co-operation.” He sees in the public ownership program of the Non-Partisan League the on-rush of “Bolshevism.” He signed as Governor, and in a statement heartily approved, House Bill No. 222, which takes away from the voters the right to nominate all state officers except Governor at the primaries. For- tunately, the Non-Partisan League and other progressive organizations Invoked the referendum by a petition of 30,000 signers, and the bill remains suspended until the general election in November. A mob broke up a Non-Partisan League meeting in Beatrice and knocked into unconsciousness two farmers, but McKelvie refused to take action* a thing the anti-league papers . gloated over. Shortly thereafter followed the Omajia mob which lynched one man, attempted to lynch the mayor and burned the courthouse. The Nebraska State Journal, leading Republican organ, connected the Omaha riot with McKelvie’s lack of firmness and cowardice in dealing with the Beatrice mob. A majority of the members of the Legislature requested the calling of a special session to deal with profiteering. McKelvie refused, declaring that the “Reds” were responsible for the unrest and that what was- needed was more “Amer- icanism.” His chief claim to fame is his “Code Bill.” It is supposed to be pat- terned after the Illinois Administrative Code, but makes no provision for the merit Digitized by Google

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700 The Railroad Telegrapher. system in the appointment of employes, leaving in McKelvie’s hands the power without restriction as to fitness to appoint and to fix the wages and hours of 200 men and women. McKelvie is a graduate of a correspondence school in “efficiency*' and sees in his “Code Bill” a plan that will end profiteering, put labor in its place, satisfy the demands of the fanners, remove corns without pain, and make unnecessary the Eeague of Nations. Unfortunately for him, the fanners and organized labor declare he has prostituted a good principle to build up a political machine, arid will have nothing of it. John H. Morehead, Democratic nominee and twice Governor, lacks the ambi- tion of his successsor to reform the state by a state constabulary and a “Code BilL" He is content to leave things strictly as they are. No frills for John H. More- head. Woman Suffrage, Initiative and Referendum, Recall of Public Officers and the Direct Primary are high-brow fads. He knows enough about organized labor to appoint one of its members Labor Commissioner for the vote it will bring, and con- siders the Non-Partisan Leaguers harmless reformers. A wealthy banker himself, he believes that public ownership is unfair to established business, and as Governor vetoed the Omaha municipal electric light bill. The’mention of co-operative banks brings a fit of apoplexy. Farmer and labor co-operative associations he consider* meddlesome nuisances to regular business. Two years ago Morehead was the Democratic nominee for United States Senator against Senator Norris. Labor in Omaha, Grand Island, Fremont, Norfolk*, and some of the smaller clUee, and the Non-Partisan League in the rural districts, at the primaries nominated in the Republican and Democratic parties 30 of their candidates for the Legislature These legislative candidates will support Wray, Bollen and Mousel and not the can- didates of their party. In the districts where the present candidates are unfriendly, candidates by petition will be put in the field. A committee of twenty-five, repre- ting the Non-Partisan League, State Federation of Labor, Railroad Brotherhoods, and the Committee of Forty-eight, will have charge of the campaign. Five thousand dollars has already been subscribed to the campaign fund, and it is planned to raise twice that amount. The state candidates will go into every county. One of the substantial grounds for the belief of success lies in the character and personnel of the candidates. Arthur G. Wray, candidate for Governor, is now serving as mayor of York, a city of 8,000 population. He is ch&rim&n of the Com- mittee of Forty-eight in Nebraska, a member of the Workers* Non-Partisan League, and president of the Nebraska Social Wokers* Association. As county judge for three terms he earned a reputation for fairness and utmost impartiality. He is forty years of age, the son of a blacksmith and a school-teacher, and now the husband of a school-teacher, and the father of three children. Although a lawyer of repute, he has always been a leader of progressive movements. He campaigned for Bryan as a boy, but cast his first presidential vote for Roosevelt in 1904. In 1912 he Joined Roosevelt in organizing the Progressive party, was a member of the famous Resolu- tions Committee, and acted as State Chairman for several years. He was elected Mayor on the issue of public ownership, and has been one of Nebraska’s foremost leaders in the Woman Suffrage, Initiative and Referendum, and taxation reform movements. F. L. Bollen, candidate for Attorney General, is a “Bryan** Democrat* and, like Judge Wray, has been a leader in the many fights in Nebraska for political and economic reform. He is a graduate of the Nebraska Law College, was County Attorney of Knox County and is widely known as a lawyer. As a member of the Legislature in 1913, he was chairman of the Judiciary Committee, sponsor of the Workmen's Compensation Act, and author of a constitutional amendment permitting the recall of unfaithful public officials. He was later chairman of the Voters* Legte* Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 701 lative League, which conducted the campaign that terminated in the calling of a Constitutional Convention. Robert D. Mousel, candidate for Lieutenant Governor, has a national reputation as a breeder of Hereford cattle. His annual sales run into hundreds of thousands of dollars. Mr. Mousel is a leader In the Non-Partisan League, a wealthy farmer and breeder, who has made his money clean and by his own ability and energy. He at first was reluctant in accepting the nomination, because, said he, "I don’t want to move my wife and children to town.” Special emphasis will be placed on the farmer-labor platform. The Republicans contented themselves with praising the “Code Bill” and declaring in favor of the Lodge reservations to the League of Nations. The Democrats eulogized Senator Hitchcock and the Democratic administration and declared against the “Code Bill.” Neither party mentioned profiteering, labor, agriculture, militarism, railroads, nor public ownership — the subjects uppermost in the minds of the people. The farmer-labor-progressive platform adopted at the Grand Island Convention follows: 1. We favor the exemption of farm improvements from taxation and a limited exemption from taxation of all homes. 2. We favor state ownership and operation of packing plants, flour mills, stock yards, creameries, terminal elevators and beet sugar- factories, in so far as necessary to restore competition and break monopolistic control. 3. We favor municipal ownership of cold storage plants, warehouses, and of all public service utilities. 4. We favor state ownership and development of the water power of Nebraska, and state or Federal ownership and operation of telephone and telegraph lines. 5. We favor co-operative banks, and better and cheaper credit facilities for farmers and working men. 6. We favor all possible legislative encouragement to the organization of farm- ers* and wage earners’ co-operative associations. 7. We favor state inspection of dockage and grading of grains and other products. 8. We favor the right of collective bargaining by farmers and working men through their own chosen representative, and up-to-date labor legislation that will insure decent hours and working conditions. 9. We favor better schools and an increase in pay for all school-teachers in accordance with the importance and responsibility of their work. 10. We favor added guarantees of freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, free- dom of religion and freedom of the press. 11. We favor public ownership of the railway systems of America as proposed by the Plumb Plan, and the retirement to private life of senators and congressmen who voted for the Cummlns-Esch Bill. 12. We condemn proposal No. 333, Ballot No. 38, submitted by the Constitutional Convention to the voters, which makes possible the creation of an industrial court. 13. We condemn the activities of the Nebraska Fair Price Commission as now operated, as useless, needless and an economic waste. 14. We condemn the “Code Bill” as written and administered, as a dangerous centralization of power. 15. We favor the adoption of an anti-injunction law, limiting the power of courts to grant injunctions and prohibiting the issuing of restraining orders and injunc- tions in labor disputes. 16. We favor equal suffrage for women. 17. We favor a bonus to soldiers, by both the Federal and state Governments, and Digitized by Google

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702 The Railroad Telegrapher. i to be paid In the main by the sixteen thousand additional millionaires created by the war. 18. We favor and urge co-operation between the city worker and the farmer in electing officials and securing progressive legislation. The Question of Agents Being Glassed as Subordinate Officials By E. J. M ANION, 'President Title III of the Transportation Act of 1920, Section 800, provides That the term “subordinate official” includes officials of carriers of such class or rank as the Inter- state Commerce Commission shall designate by regulation formulated and issued after such notice and hearing as the Commission may prescribe, to the carriers, and employes and subordinate officials of carriers, and organizations thereof, directly to be affected before such regulation. Agreeably with this authority a public hearing was held In Washington by the Commission on March 15, 1920, for the purpose of determining what classes of officials of carriers shall be included within the term “subordinate official,” as that term is used in the Transportation Act. The Ofrder of Railroad Telegraphers was represented at this hearing, and during the session consideration was given the “supervisory, station agents.” It was de- termined and so ordered by the Interstate Commerce Commission on March 23d, that: “The supervisory station agents are those who have supervision of the work of other station employes. They cover the range from the station where one employe other than the agent is employed to the agents at the largest and most important points. They are the official and responsible representatives of the company in its relationships with the public and frequently in a legal sense. Their compensation naturally varies with the responsibility of their positions. It is not believed that this class can be consistently included within the term ‘subordinate official,’ as that term is used in Title III of the Transportation Act, 1920.” Since this order has been issued the management of certain railroads have seen fit to misinterpret its meaning and place a wrong construction on its intent by at- tempting to define all agents as officials where more than one employe other than the agent is required to perform the duties at stations, and several invidious persons, not members of our organization, on different railroads have endeavored to spread a poisonous propaganca among our membership to this same effect and further stating that all such positions of agents now included in our Schedule Agreements are eliminated from our contracts by the order of the Commission. This belief is in error, and such statements are the reverse of the facts. To avoid the possibility of any misunderstanding of the order issued by the Commission, I addressed a letter to the Interstate Commerce Commission calling their attention to its vagueness and requested the intent of that body fn regard to these employes. I am appending a copy of my letter and a copy of the reply of the Commission for the information of all concerned, and it will be noted that it declined to designate super- visory station agents as subordinate officials, nor did it designate them as officials, which leaves us the only conclusion that tney are considered and will be treated as employes under the Transportation Act, and all matters affecting the wages and working conditions of such employes is a proper subject for consideration by the Railroad Labor Board. The fact that an agent may have one or more employes located at his station does not permit classification as an official nor does the order of the Commission affect in any way the status of positions of agent now incor- porated In agreements of this organization. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 703 Washington, D. C., March 24, 1920. TO THE INTERSTATE COMMERCE COMMISSION. Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen: Referring to the regulations promulgated by. the Commission under date of March 23, designating who are to be included within the term “subordinate official” under Title III of the Transportation Act, 1920: Your attention is respectfully invited to that part of the regulations wherein supervisory station agents are defined as those who have supervision of the work of other station employes, and that they cover a range from the station where one employe other than the agent is employed to the agents at the largest and most important points. And, it is not believed by the Commission that this class can be consistently included within the term “subordinate official” as that term is used in the Transportation Act. We understand from the aforesaid regulations that supervisory station agents are not included within the term “subordinate official,” but it is not clear as to whether they are to be considered as employes under the ruling of the Commission or are to be considered officials of a higher rank than that of subordinate officials. Will you please advis^ me as to the intent of the commission with regard to these employes. Yours truly, (Signed) E. J. Manion, President. Interstate Commerce Commission, Washington, March 25, 1920. MR. E. J. MANNION, President Order of Railroad Telegraphers, St. Louis, Mq, Dear Sir: r have your letter of the 24th instant asking as to the intent of the Commission in promulgating its regulations under Title III of the Transportation Act, 1920, with regard to the employes spoken of as supervisory station agents. You Bay it is not clear to you whether we class them as officials or as employes. In promulgating these regulations the Commission was performing simply the duties imposed upon it by thp act referred to. One of those duties was to designate the classes or employes that would come under the term -subordinate official” as used in the act. Representations were made to us that “supervisory station agents” should be designated as a class of subordinate officials. We declined to so designate that class. We did not thereby designate them as officials or as employes. T Vc had neither duty nor authority to make such a designation. We simply said that for reasons outlined in our regulations we could not hold that “supervisory station agents” should as a class come within the term “subordinate official” as used in the act. That was the sole and only question before us so far as that class of employes is concerned. Yours very truly, (Signed) Edgab E. Clark, Chairman. A Congress of Negation By SAMUEL GOMPERS America must get rid of its veto Congress and elect an action Congress. The “no” Congress must give place to a “yes” Congress. The present Congress has done little except to apply the brakes and say “no” to one constructive proposal after another. It has failed us on the peace treaty. It has failed us in reconstruction. It has failed us In the high cost of living. It has failed us in intelligent comprehension of every great dueBtio11 affecting the lives and the welfare of our people. Digitized by VjOOQle

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704 The Railroad Telegrapher. It has failed to bring the nation back to a peace basis in respect to the repeal of legislation calculated only for the period of actual war and unbearably oppressive at any other time. The present Congress has failed — it has failed with completeness and abandon Not only have tne sins of the present ^Congress been sins of omission, but they have likewise been sins of commission. There has been a failure to do right things and almost an eagerness to do wrong things. The war seems to have bred in the mind of Congress a deep-rooted philosophy of coercion. It has clung with despera- tion to the restrictive and coercive measures which were necessary during the war, and has sought to add to them, though the necessities of war no longer obtain. The most shining example of this is in the adoption of the railroad bill. There must be a Congress which will turn its face to the task confronting the American citizenship in the true spirit of American institutions. A constant genius for accomplishment must replace an ill-considered mania for restriction and coercion. America has things to do. It is confronted by enormous obligations requiring positive action. This action has been delayed too long. America has need for great efforts in the solution of her own domestic problems and she has need for the utmost of intelligence, forbearance and good will in dealing with her relations to the rest of the world. No matter how much she may wish to, American cannot play the part of a peevish child forever in international relations. The affairs of the world are the concern of the United States. There may be proper limits to which this concern may go, but there is no longer any such thing as absolute divorcement from what trans- pires elsewhere. The economic structures of a dozen countries are disrupted, and cannot gain re- establishment on a normal basis for a period of years. Even under the most favor- able crop conditions, the food supplies of a dozen countries cannot flow normally for a period of years. Today destitution and starvation are sweeping away thou- sands of lives. Among our recent allies and among our recent enemies, the spectre of hunger threatens, in addition to the immediate death which it brings, to make stable government a matter of speculation for months to come. The blind and bigoted action of Congress in refusing to deal intelligently with the peace treaty has made It impossible for the United States to manifest the proper concern in these affairs. The situation in which the country finds itself today is intolerable and must be changed. Nor does Europe offer the only field for the expression of American ideals In international relations. On our own continent there is the same need. For weeks a senatorial subcommittee has been going up and down the country gathering testi- mony, the evident purpose of which can be but to inflame the minds of those who think little and who take much on faith. At periods all too frequent the United States is brought to the verge of war with Mexico. It is not difficult to see the evi- dences of satisfaction on the part of predatory interests at each of these periods, nor is it difficult to discern the propaganda which fosters the development of them. Falsehood, villification, studied misrepresentation — these are the weapons con- stantly in use by those who, to serve their own ends, would precipitate war between these two American republics. It is no longer possible to feel with certainty that high government officials have not been made the tools and pawns of those who seek intervention, the latest term for which is "Cubanization.” At home, across our borders and over the seas, Congress has made for Itself a record of failure, a record of stubborn opposition to that which is good, that which expresses the spirit and the idealism of the country, about which the world learned during the war and which built throughout the world for this nation such a feeling of trust and admiration as no nation ever before enjoyed. Digitized by Google

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The Railkoad Telegrapher. 705 In the American Federationlst last month there was published a group of con- structive proposals and demands which expressed the needs of the great masses of the American people. These needs are not abstract things. They are actualities or to- day. They are needs that have to do with the lives of the people as they are lived in homes and work places each day. It seems difficult for Congress to understand, but the things which most intimately concern the multitudes are such common-place things as prices of commodities, rental of homes, wages received, conditions of employment, the right to speak freely, to write freely, to assemble freely and to move freely from place to place. Lay upon any of these subjects violent hands that repress and restrict and you enter into the inner happiness and well-being of the masses. You enter against protest and without welcome, and you crush out some portion of the fullness of life, some portion of the spontaneous enthusiasm for life, some bit of the spark of life. There can be no repression without destruction. And yet a great portion of the time and effort of legislators in America since the signing of the armistice has been occupied with efforts to conceive and to execute some mechanism or device to inter- fere with the rights and liberties of the great masses of the people. One of the intolerable and hated things that was crushed in Germany with the exit of the kaiser and the downfall of his regime, was the “verboten” idea in gov- ernment. “Forbidden,” “thou shalt not,” these were watchwords and accursed words in the old Germany. They signified the existence of a power which had the right to deny to others rights and privileges which it could grant to the elect and the favored. It was the right to bestow opportunities by favor, unequally. Democracy must mean equality of opportunity. It must mean the greatest pos- sible liberty and freedom. It must mean the sovereignty of the masses. It must mean absence of domination by a select ruling class or caste or clique. The people must rule for the people. Congress has done much In recent months to Indicate hostility to these principles. These principles fired in the souls of men the devotion and the passion which sus- tained them, in the ordeal and the sacrifice by which this nation was established. Out of them came that divine spark of idealism and devotion which is America, and without which America cannot be. Powerful forces In the United States are seeking to wound and cripple democ- racy. They do not want equality of opportunity. They are not only willing but anxious to spend huge sums of money to destroy any possibility of equality of op- portunity. They want an unfair advantage. An equal chance is not enough for them. They want an unfair advantage in the industry of the nation, in the legis- latures of the nation and in the courts of the nation. They find satisfaction in the enactment of such measures as the Esch-Cummins railroad bill, which makes it unlawful for railroad workers to cease work — strike; and the Kansas Court of Industrial Relations law, which makes it unlawful for the workers in that state to cease work — strike. They rejoice in such conduct as that of Judge Gary in the recent steel strike. They applaud every effort to restrain the aspirations of working people for a better, freer and finer life. The Congress now in session has closed its ears to the great hymnal of sacrifice and service with which the nation's millions plunged into the war to save humanity from destruction. They have forgotten the strains of the great and magnificent chorus of American voices which cried throughout the land; “Take me for service.” They have lost the feel of the great pulse beat of America. They have ceased to commune with the great soul of our Republic. They understand no longer the un- assuming nobility of character, the heroic eagerness to give and give and give, even unto life itself, for the good of the great human family. Digitized by Google

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706 The Railroad Telegrapher. Repress, repress, repress. From whence comes this sullen mood of legislators, this brutal attitude of great wealth? It comes from the deep-rooted desire of those who possess great power to keep that power and to surrender nothing to those who toil and give service to the world. , There is no thought that all legislators and all possessors of power and wealth are of thfs mould. But deaf indeed is he who hears not the rising rumble of combat and aggressiveness from those who are of that mould and who are all too many for the good of our land and of our humanity. Humankind Is going forward. The mind' and the heart of the race has seen to the front a better day. It has dreamed a great dreami It has been through the fire. It is purer in thought and aspiration today than yesterday — now than before the great conflagration. This aspiration, this longing, thfs great and noble hope m America, lends itself to no distorted field of human action. It has within it nothing of the hideous fantasy that has brought so much ruin and terror to Europe. It is merely and solely that there is in America a solemn and deep determination that there must be progress for humanity — true progress that can be translated into terms of life and freedom for the masses of the people — and that it is possible and imperative that each day there be some small realization o l this progress, some small satisfaction of the aspiration that is in men’s hearts and souls, some short step forward and onward and upward. The urge to move is in men’s souls. In America, because of our traditions and our institutions, our liberties and our common heritage of intelligence, and because of the discipline and philosophy of our great labor movement, the working people see the way clear, through the use of our established practices, through the orderly procedure of negotiation in industry and of political decision in government. They find these instrumentalities and paths the normal and natural agencies and avenues through which to achieve their pur- poses. If those who are entrusted with the making of laws and with the spokesmanshlp of capital fail to see these truths, or ignore them out of a mistaken sense of power, it will be a serious thing for America, a blasting, blighting thing upon the- land which offers to the world the greatest hope and the greatest inspiration. When the labor movement of America warns against repression and coercion and reaction it speaks for the welfare of the nation. It speaks for the liberties of great masses of toiling men and women — the only voice they have, the only expression that can carry the longing of their hearts and the convictions of their souls to the ears of the world. When the labor movement protests against the pressure of those who would turn backward the tide of progress and deny the sunlight to lives but just emerging from the dark, it speaks with authority. It utters the cry of humanity — and in this advanced year of our history it gives form to the reasoned, intelligent declarations of the thought of an able, alert citizenship. The labor movement of America does speak and it must be heard. It speaks for progress. It speaks for our established institutions. It speaks for equality of opportunity. It speaks for the rights of men and women and of children. It speaks for the one thing that can save the world and bring solace to its weary spirit. It speaks in measured denunciation of every vestige of autocracy. And It speaks with a determination to leave no stone unturned to bring fruition and realization to its aspirations. Where the effort is made in industry to crowd men and women backward and Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Bailroad Telegrapher. 707 downward, we will resist and resist and resist, for it is better to resist* and lose than never to have resisted. Where the effort is made in the halls of Congress and legislatures, we will resist and resist aAd resist. We will resist with all our power the re-election of those who have been false to the trust which humanity placed in them. We will resist with all our strength those who have accepted the suffrages of men and women who day by day give service to the country through the toil and thought of their hands and brains and who have then cast aside the obligation to court favor at the hand of greed. We will resist with equal vigor those who have, without thought and without price turned their minds in legislative work into the channels of yesterday and the methods of centuries now dead. These we will resist as unworthy of America, as unworthy of the manhood and womanhood of our country, as false to our needs and hopes and aspirations and as incapable of responding to the thought of our time. There must be progress. There must be positive action. There must be forward motion. There must be an end to negation, an end to repression, an end to that which holds back and thrusts downward the head and the heart of the people of our land. The American Federation of Labor has called upon the working people of our country to go into the primaries and into the elections, visiting stinging rebuke and defeat upon those who have been deaf to the needs and wishes of the great masses of our people.# At this hour, early in the great struggle as it is, the response is amazing and inspiring. The heart of the nation beats as it beat in the stirring days of 1918. There is purpose and determination— a non-partisan purpose to send up to speak for us men who will speak the speech that is in us, who will answer to the throb of the nation's hearty who will act in accord with the high purpose and idealism of true American character. This struggle is the struggle of the American people to shut off forever the en- croaching forces of political and industrial reaction. This struggle is a struggle of America to register a great determination not to be misrepresented. Party and pronouncement of the past count for nothing. Records and deeds are the measures of men today. By what they have done ye shall know them, and knowing them, mark them for defeat and rebuke! This is America’s great testing of spirit and purpose. This is America's opportunity to bring joy to the souls of freedom. Defeat every enemy! Elect those who are true! Solidarity and unity of purpose today can only mean a manificent advance for human freedom, a definite measure of progress won and held for all time and for all humanity! • Labor’s Protest Against a Rampant Tragedy BY SAMUEL GOMFERS. Regardless of whatever artificial issues politicians may seek to inject into the present political campaign, one of the great issues about which the masses of the American people are thinking most seriously is the cost of living. The cost of living has become a paramount issue because the cost of living is out of proportion to In- come. It constitutes therefore a reduction of income for the average American fam- Digitized by VjOOQle

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708 The Railroad Telegrapher. ily. The average American family will not submit to a reduction of income and consequent lowering of the standard of living without protest. Tlie greater the mar- gin between income and cost of living, the more energetic will be the protest. Politicians have had but little to say thus far about the cost of living and bat few remedies of any value have been suggested. The cost of living issue is in reality a wage issue. The cost of living determines the actual value of wages. It determines the manner in which people shall live. It determines whether there shall be in the average family more than barely enough to supply the actual neces- sities to maintain life. It determines whether there shall be sufficient to provide necessaries in variety, whether there shall he sufficient to prqvlde for intellectual growth, for pleasure, for relaxation. It determines whether there shall be existence or life. The present Congress may be indicted fairly as a congress of incompetence on the cost of living issue. It may be Indicted as a Congress which has been negligent of duty and thoughtless of the welfare of the people. The government departments, as, for example, the Department of Justice, may be indicted for incompetency on the same grounds. What has been more ludicrous in American public life during the past year than the announcement of the Department of Justice to the effect that it has abandoned its high cost of living campaign because of the high cost of the cam- paign? On August 8, 1919, President Wilson appeared before the Congress of the United States and delivered a message dealing with the high cost of living. Upon that occa- sion the President made specific suggestions to Congress, all of which Congress listened to with real or assumed respect, but to none of which Congress paid any at- tention thereafter. The President’s recommendations at that time may be sum- marized as folfows: Extension of the life of the Lever Food Control act to the date of ratification of the Treaty of Peace. * Extension of the scope of the Lever act to Include fuel, food and clothing. Amendment of the Lever act to provide penalties for profiteering. Enactment of a law limiting the period during which goods may be held in cold storage; also a law requiring that goods be marked with the prices at which they were placed in cold storage. Enactment of a law requiring that all goods destined for interstate commerce be marked with the price at which they left the hands of the producer. Enactment of a law to license and regulate corporations engaged in inter- state commerce in order to prevent profiteering. Enactment of a law to control security issues to prevent speculation. Seven measures were suggested by the President, but Congress gave no heed. Of course Congress might argue that these measures had no merit, but if Con- gress were inclined to argue to that effect and if it were sincere, it would haTe produced measures of its own making as substitutes. This it has not done. It has done nothing. Continuing, in the same message, the President presented the immediate policy of the government in its efforts to* deal .with profiteering. The President realized the gravity of the situation. He realized the menace to public welfare presented by the profiteers. He declared it to be the policy of the gov- ernment: To sell at eost stocks of surplus food and clothing In possession of the gov- ernment. To fix a limitation on wheat exports and foreign credits. To bring about the removal of food from storage so far as existing laws allowed and prosecute those engaged in hoarding. To prosecute those seeking to control the supplies and prices in contra- vention of the Lever act. Digitized by tjOOQle

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TitE Railroad Telegrapher. 709 There was for a time a brisk sale of government goods to tfye consuming public and the consuming public benefited greatly thereby. This practice has been discontinued, for reasons not altogether clear. The benefit lasted only while the sales of government goods continued, and since this was temporary, the benefit was likewise temporary and restricted to the zones in which the sales took place. There seems to have been no great energy put behind the policy calling for removal of food from storage, for no effects of such a policy have been felt. Prosecution of those seeking to control supplies and prices in contravention of the Lever act has constituted one of the sad comedies of the last few months. There is no need to review the records of the Department of Justice in the prose- cution of big profiteers. There is, in fact, no record to review. Obviously there was no Immediate improvement in the situation, for the Presi- dent again addressed Congress on December 2, 1919, making further recommenda- tions as to legislative remedies and calling attention vigorously to the failure of Congress to act upon his former recommendations. At this time he made addi- tional recommendations which may be summarized as follows: . Extension of the Lever act for a period of six months after the signing of the Treaty of Peace. Publicity regarding profiteering. He renewed his recommendations for regulation of trade in goods in inter- state commerce and declared there is “no other way of striking at the manipulation of prices by the withholding of foodstuffs.” He also recommended a law regulating the storage prices modeled on the law of New Jersey and renewed his recom- mendation of federal licensing of corporations engaged in interstate commerce. So far as effectiveness is concerned, the President may as well have stood on the steps of the Capitol and spoken to the# automobiles usually parked on either side. In view of the fact that the cost of living is higher today that it was on either of the dates on which the President spoke to Congress about the issue, it may serve some purpose to quote the exact words used by the President in one of these messages. He said on August 8, 1919: # • * * by way of a more permanent correction of prices, burplus stocks in private hands will be drawn out of storage and put upon the mar- ket. Fortunately, under the terms of the Food Control act the hoarding of foodstuffs can be checked and prevented; and they will be with the greatest energy. Foodstuffs can be drawn out of storage and sold by legal action which the Department of Justice will institute wherever necessary; but so soon as the situation is systematically dealt with it is not likely that the courts will often have to be resorted to. The President made clear the speculative character of the excessive cost of living when he said: * • Disregarding the surplus stocks in the hands of the government there was a greater supply of foodstuffs in the country on June first of this year than at the same date last year. In the combined total of the number of the most important foods in dry and cold storage the excess was quite 19 per cent. And yet prices have risen. The extent to which prices have risen is a matter of which every family in the country has common knowledge in a general way, although exact and detailed information as to percentages of increase and percentages of profit is probably in the hands of but few. Newspaper reports based upon the most careful investi- gation and which have not been challenged furnish the basis for the following some- what limited tabulation: Cluett, Peabody & Co., makers of men’s collars, in 1919, made net profits of 15,153,129, an increase of 175 per cent over 1918. Digitized by Google

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710 The Railroad Telegrapher. The International Paper Co. for the three-year period from 1916 to 1919 In- creased its annual net profits 487 per cent over the previous period of 1909 to 1915. The aggregate common stock dividend for the period 1916 to 1919 is 174.15. The May Department Stores increased net common stock earnings 174 per cent for 1919 over the year 1915. The Amoskeag Mfg. Co. enjoyed a net increase in common stock earning of 811 per cent for 1919 over 1917 in the face of a decrease In the volume of business handled. The United States Rubber Co., which makes automobile tires among other things, increased its net common stock earnings 43 per cent for 1918 over 1916 and the 1919 figures will show a still greater increase. In the case of the United Drug Co., the net increase in common stock earnlfcgs for 1918 over 1916 was 148 per cent. The Tobacco Products Corporation made an exceptional record. Its net in- crease in common stock earnings for 1918 over 1914 was 1,547 per cent. The United Fruit Co. levied a tribute upon fruit brought into the United States from tropical countries sufficient to produce a net Increase for 1919 over 1914 of 547 per cent on its common stock earnings. The Standard Milling Co., which means flour, increased its net common stock earnings 196 per cent for 1918 over 1913. The American Linseed Co. ranks high, on the list with an increase of 780 per cent on net common stock earnings for 1919 oyer 1916. The National Enameling & Stamping Co., makers of kitchen ware, enjoyed a net increase in common stock earnings for the period 1916 to 1919 over the period 1909 to 1915 of 1178 per cent. The increase in average annual earnings for this three-year period over the previous seven-year period was 326 per cent For the General Cigar Company therd was an increase in. net income of 84 per cent for 1919 over 1917. The Manhattan Shirt Co. enjoyed an increase in net income of 275 per cent for 19T19 over 1915. The American Ice Co. furnishes no hot weather consolation *in a study of its profits, the increase in net iircome having been 393 per cent from 1919 over 1914. The Pacific Mills, which again means flour, enjoyed an increase in net income of 218 per cent for 1919 over 1915. The Burns Bros. Co., largest distributors of coal and ice in New York City, had an Increase in net income of 72 per cent In 1919 over 1916 in spite of the fact that the sales of coal for 1919 totaled 75,000 tons less than 1916. For the American Hide & Leather Co. the increase in net income for 1919 over 1914 was 265 per cent. This, of course, accounts some for the high cost of shoes. The Corn Products Refining Co., makers of various kinds of syrups, increased its common stock earnings 639 per cent in 1919 over 1915. ^ The Endicott- Johnson Corporation, makers of shoes, had an increase of 353 per cent in 1919 over 1915. The Central Leather Co. increased its net income 103 per cent for 1919 over 1918, and had an increase in accumulated surplus earnings for 1919 over 1914 of 288 per cent. - The American Woolen Co. Increased its net income 316 per cent for 1918 over 1914. The net increase in common stock earnings was 531 per cent. Since the American Woolen Co. controls so large a portion of the business of making wool cloth, being commonly known as the “wool trust,” it may be well to go Into more detail regarding its operations. There were for the year ending December 31, 1919, after deduction of all taxes and charges, net earnings of $10, 779.864. equal to 139.89 per share on the 820,000,000 of common stock. This Is after tile** Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 711 ance has been made for preferred dividends. In 1918 the earnings per share on common stock were $13.86, a total of $5,572,527. President William W. Wood told his stockholders that the close of the year left the company with unfilled orders sufficient to keep the machinery fully employed well Into 1920 and with good prospects for full production for the entire year. Foreign deliveries increased approximately 100 per cent during 1919. Wearing overalls is obviously not the cure for such a situation as this. It would be possible to fill a number of pages of the American Federationist with citations of enormous profits. If there were full publicity for profits, as there should be, it would be possible to present such an array of figures as would stagger the imagination. Perhaps a sufficient number of figures has been presented to show beyond question the condition that generally exists. The citations of profits already made are from representative Industries and tell the story so far as figures of that kind can tell the story. There is, however, another phase of business activity about which the general public has little or no knowledge and which has at least some bearing on the inflation of living costs. The irregularity of this phase of the business world is such as to make the completion of any comprehensive statistical table an impossibility. Three illustrations derived from authentic sources will serve to show what is in mind. Case No. 1. A Chicago speculator was approached by a friend and told that a quick sale of a large lot of webbing was to be made. The speculator inquired what webbing might be. The friend responded that there was no time to explain what webbing was, or why he should make the purchase. The speculator departed on the run and made the purchase, immediately after the purchase had been made the speculator was approached by a third man and asked if he would sell what he had just bought. The speculator said he did not know what he had bought but that he would sell it at a given figure. The figure was accepted and the transaction closed. The speculator made $20,000 without knowing what he had bought or why he had bought it. He had never seen the commodity and never wanted to see it. Case No. 2. A carload of live chickens was shipped to Chicago from Omaha, Nebraska. Eventually the same carload of chickens dressed was returned to Omaha and sold in the Omaha retail market. During the round trip the chickens passed through eleven hands, all of which levied a toll of profit. Case No. 3. A New York broker bought a warehouse receipt for several thou- sand yards of silk. Within a few days he sold the same receipt at a profit said to have been $10,000. He had no knowledge of what the silk looked like, what its condition was, or even what color it was. He didn’t see the silk and didn’t touch it. He added nothing to its quality and performed no service in getting it from producer to consumer. He bought a piece of paper and sold it. Perhaps there never has been a time in American history when this kind of freebooting was conducted on so large a scale as at present. If Congress had seen fit to respond to the wishes of the President and enact some of the legislation suggested by him, it would have been possible to curb; at least to some extent, this unlicensed plundering in the necessaries of life. For Congress to deny that relief is possible is for Congress to confess the incom- petency of which the evidence convicts It. It seems easily possible that even without additional legislation the Attorney General might, if he were in earnest, at least discourage the kind of speculation here indicated. The Attorney General has found it possible to indict corner grocers and small haberdashers for offenses which are of no moment at all in comparison to the whole situation. He has found it possible to advise the people to eat the poorer cuts of meat, which In effect constitutes a reduction of their standard of living. He has found It possible to do a number of ineffective things, but seems to have found it beyond his capacity Digitized by VjOOQle

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712 Tiie Railroad Telegrapher. to do effective things. Concerning the campaign of the Department of Justice to induce the consumption of the cheaper cuts of meat, some interesting testimony was given before the House Agricultural Committee, by L. D. H. Weld of the Commercial Research Department of Swift and Company. The material Issued by the Department of Justice in its low priced meat campaign was under discussion. Mr. Weld was asked whether the packers were preparing this material for the Department of Justice. “I know we are co-operating with the Department of Justice in their cam- paign/' said Mr. Weld. The representative of the packers was asked whether the campaign to induce consumers to buy the cheaper cuts would not really result in increased prices because of an increase in the demand^ for the so-called cheaper cuts. He said, “If it is successful, it will." In response to another question, Mr. Weld said, “There will be no benefit to the poor/' and when asked flatly if the campaign would not “raise the price of the cheaper cuts of meat,” he made the direct reply, “it will raise the price, yes.” The National Industrial Conference Board, which is most assuredly not i radical or even a liberal organization, and which is devoted to the interests of employers who for the most part are not employers of union men, has Just issue* some statistics relating to the increase in the cost of living. “The average cost of living for American wage-earners rose 7 per cent between November, 1919, and March, 1920,” says a preliminary announcement by this board. The announcement continues to say that “this marks a total increase of about 95 per cent July, 19K an increase of 21 per cent within the last twelve months.” Going into tho matter in more detail, the report presents the increases specifically as follows: Food, 100 per cent; shelter, 49 per cent; clothing, 177 per cent; fuel, light and heat, 49 per cent; sundries, 83 per cent. The effect of a 100 per cent increase in the cost of food is seen more effectively when it is considered that at least 49 per cent of the income of the average family is expended in the purchase of food. More recently a summary of the Increase In cost of living was issued by the United States Department of Labor, which shows that in' 14 American Indus trial centers there was an increase of 96 per cent from December, 1914, to Decem- ber, 1919. The highest increase was 107.87 per cent in Detroit, and the lowest 91.57 per cent in Portland, Me. The items entering Into the Department of Labor calculation were food, clothing, housing, fuel and light. Furniture and furnishings are classified as miscellaneous expenditures. The increase found in the 14 cities in the tabulation was as follows: Portland, Me., 91.59 per cent; Boston, Mass., 92.30 per cent; New York City, 103.81 per cent; Philadelphia, Pa., 96.49 per cent; Baltimore, Md., 98.40 per cent; Norfolk, Va., 106.98 per cent; Savannah, Ga., 98.68 per cent; Jacksonville, Fla., 102.14 per cent; Mobile, Ala., 94.54 per cent; Houston, Tex., 101.70 per cent; Chicago, 111., 161 per cent; Detroit, Mich, 107.87 per cent; Cleveland, Ohio, 95.05 per cent, and Buffalo, N. Y., 102.65 per cent The high cost of living is a paramount issue with the American people today and it will be a paramount issue so long as the Income of the average American family is inadequate to maintain proper and just standard of living. Thousands of American working people have had little or no increase in income since 19R That being the case they have actually been compelled to accept a reduction in real wages of approximately 50 per cent. The recent outburst among railroad workers was a sym^pton of what is the matter in America. Only two classes of people were surprised by that outburst, the ignorant and the blind. To be sure the railroad workers used tactics which were entirely “wrong. They used tactics which were In denial of all the jtrainlng and discipline of the trade union movement and tactics which were foredoomed to failure. However, the undeniable fact is that they acted in response to a Digitized by CsOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 713 situation that was aggravating in the extreme, a situation which had been for two years clamoring for relief, a situation which officials and employers had failed to comprehend and failed to meet and which had been made the plaything and football of officials and employers. The great body of railroad workers has shown a patriotic restraint and a long suffering forebearance. Promise of relief has followed promise of relief. Appeals to the workers to be patient have been made in the name of patriotism, in the name of business welfare, in the name of almost everything that could be invoked by men who have a genius for that kind of thing. The working people understand as well as any the dangers of the present political and industrial condition of the world. . The working people of America have understood the need for restraint The working people of America have understood perhaps better than any other people anywhere in the world the need of well considered policies and the danger of hasty action In any direction. To use a common phrase, they have had no desire to rock the boat. They have exercised a restraint that has been truly patriotic and for which they have no regret. The outstanding fact in the whole situation is that the appeals of the wage- earners made in orderly manner through proper channels to proper authorities have Been met with postponement after* postponement. The appeals of the wage-earners for relief from profiteering, relief from the high cost of living, relief from reduction in wages, have been made under condi- tions most aggravating, only to be met with deception, if not treachery. Abuse has been heaped upon them and they have been charged with every manner of social crime. Not only have the workers been denied the proper adjustment of wages to meet the cost of living, not only has there been no effective action on the part of a government supposed to be representative, but there has been on the con- trary, legislation the only effect of which can be to aggravate a situation already delicate to the point of danger. Typical of this v legislation is the Esch-Cummins railroad law, under the provisions of which strikes are to all intents and purposes unlawful, for there can be no adjustment of wages while a strike is In progress. Of similar general trend was the peacetime sedition bill, which failed to become a law only because the organized labor movement by most energetic measures succeeded in bringing about its defeat. A further example is the Kansas Court of Industrial Relations law, which makes it unlawful for workers to ceasfe work — to strike. This law, which already has made many hundreds of working people violators of the law, is being seriously considered in a number of other states, and unless there is the greatest vigilance it will undoubtedly find its way •on to the statute books of those states where reaction is most rampant. So the proof of legislative incompetence accumulates. So the indictment against the sixty-sixth Congress grows. But this does not end the story. The courts bring their assistance to those who have been so ably plundering the people. To cite one decision — a decision of the United States Supreme Court: Great corporations may now evade the payment of income tax by declaring dividends payable in the form of stock instead of in cash. The Supreme Court has decided that stock dividends are not subject to Income tax. This is a relief of which a number of corporations have already availed themselves. It adds to the burden that Is already upon the shoulders of the people. It adds to the aggravation under which they seek to conduct themselves patiently, with order and in accord with their traditions and discipline. While the legislative, administrative and judicial divisions of the government have done nothing of any moment to check the rising cost of living, to relieve Digitized by VjOOQle

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714 The Railroad Telegrapher. the people from the burden of exploitation and robbery, they have not even left the workers free to use their economic power to sectire for themselves such relief as might be possible through the use of that power. The workers have one final argument for use when all measures fail to secure justice — the right to cease work, the right to strike. This argument is an effective argument. The working people of the United States have been disinclined to use this final argument. They have placed a higher valuation upon continuity of production than has been placed there by our legislators. But Congress, while neglecting to perform its own plain duty, while allowing profiteering, eiploitation and com- mercial piracy to continue, has sought to place a curb upon the economic activitie* of the workers by restrictive and coercive measures, the object of which is to make the strike unlawful. Failing to protect the people, Congress would deprive the people of the means of protecting themselves. There is a tendency abroad to describe as un-American those who effectively resent the injustice and inequities of our time. It is to be regretted that states- manship is so short-sighted. Democracy in order to perpetuate itself must function. If from one source there are efforts to destroy the principles of democracy, to make it impossible for democracy to function, there must be from some other source efforts to combat that destruction. Those who are responsible for the evil will, of course, seek to demean and to defame those whose effort it is to protect and defend the democracy of the country and the liberty and the welfare of its people. Let cause be shown, let proof be had, why the term un-American should be applied to working people engaged in a desperate struggle to secure justice, and why it should not be applied to those who seek to Impose injustice and industrial autocracy. The employers, the bourbons of industry and politics, have for months been engaged in an insidious warfare upon the workers. For months they have been fighting a battle of stealth and indirection for the purpose of weakening, if not destroying, the trade union movement. The armistice in the great war to make the world safe for democracy brought with it no armistice in the conflict to undermine the processes of democracy at home. Coal miners, confronted with a situation similar to that under which the railroad workers have suffered for two years, sought relief finally through stop- page of work. Again there was the attempt to pile delay upon delay, excuse upon excuse, and there was the effort, through the mandatory injunction, to compel the miners to refrain from doing what they had a lawful right to do. Finally after months and months of negotiation and conflict, an increase of approximately 40 cents per ton has been gained by the miners, whereupon notice is served that the consumer must pay an advance of $2 per ton! Surely the operators of coal mines have declared no armistice. Through the whole period that has elapsed since November 11, 1918, the American political and Industrial bourbons have laid a course of plunder, restriction and coercion. There has been an abandon and a ruthlessness worthy of high seas piracy. Buccaneering tactics have been used in the conduct and management of industry without regard to the needs of society or of the workers. Politician has played hand and glove with industrial monarch to press down upon the people the burdens of industrial empire. While profiteers have reaped untold gains, w'hile they have piled fortune upon fortune In gold, beyond the dreams of avariee, makers of laws have gone about the business of writing into the statutes measures for the suppression of trade union activity. Out of this repression and out of this ruthless exploitation and profiteering, Tiere has been bred among the working people a deep and stern resentment. No excuse will be accepted from the Congress of the United States for its failure Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 715 to find proposals of constructive nature to meet a situation that has iong been of alarming proportions and of the utmost gravity and significance. The fact that the government has only evidenced a willingness to produce repressive legislation and to apply through the Department of Justice nothing more intelligent than punishment cannot be overlooked or forgotten. The business of discovering causes and applying practical and constructive remedies is a business which seems not to have engaged the attention of either the Congress or the Attorney General. There seems to have grown up in these two branches of the government a philosophy which teaches that protest must be made a crime to be met with punishment. While this trend toward repression, coercion and punishment has gained head- way in legislation, the workers have been deluded by promises that boards and commissions of many varieties would bring relief. Device upon device has been brought into action to give the workers everything except the thing they needed — relief in the shape of wages adjusted to meet the needs of new cost of living levels. American labor, in its deep understanding of the needs of the world and of our own people, has practiced every possible restraint. It has pressed forward with its final argument only when subjected to the most terrific pressure. It has had a sense of responsibility and of duty to humanity while those who profiteer in the products of industry have cast aside all honor, all restraint, all decency, all consideration for human welfare. Profiteering, accumulation, speculation, these are things that can be brought under the control of the people if there is a willingness on the part of those chosen to represent the people to act con- structively with vigor and determination. There must be deep cutting measures taken to guard the nation's distributive machinery against assaults from pirates of commerce and trade. To that end it is necessary that there be: First, Immediate adjustments of wages, both In private employment and in government service, to at least meet the living costs that have outstripped incomes by reason of this era of frenzied profiteering and gambling. This must be done without delay. The latest available statistics gathered by the Department of Labor show that the average union wage, which is always the highest wage, has advanced 55 per cent. The average cost of living has advanced 96 per cent. The real meaning of this in the lives of the working people over the country is that there has been a reduction in wages, a reduction either in the amount or quality of the food and the clothing and the enjoyment to be had in their homes. Profiteering rests the whole weight of Its rotten structure upon the wages of the worker. The twenty-one great corporations enumerated at the outset of this article reaped last year profits averaging 435 per cent above profits of previous years. Second, immediate effective action must be taken to prevent continued increases in the cost of living. This requires action of a fundamental nature. It requires action by the Congress of the United States. It requires understanding and determination on the part of the government of the United States and of the departments that come In contact with the processes of production and distribution. Advice “to eat the cheaper cuts of meat" must give way to a more intelligent comprehension of facts and a willingness to deal with them in an American fashion constructively. ' Third, there must be an end to the enactment of the kind of legisla- tion typified by the Esch-Cummins railroad law and the Kansas Court of Industrial Relations law. There must be an end of legislative repression, restriction and coercion. Not only must there be an end to the enactment of legislation of this character, but there must be a repeal of legislation already enacted. Digitized by VjOOQle

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716 The Railroad Telegrapher. Freedom in America must not be destroyed by legislative incompetence, nor must it be destroyed by judicial decree through injunctions. The Constitution of the United States must have its full meaning restored. The thirteenth amend- ment, which declares that there shall be “no involuntary servitude except as a punishment for crime whereof the party snail have been duly convicted/* must not be abrogated as it has been by unseeing, unthinking legislators and judges. Fourth, the Congress of the United States will do well to give immediate and effective consideration to the proposal of the American labor movement that control of credit capital be taken from private finan- ciers and placed in the hands of a public trust to be administered upon principles voluntary and co-operative in character. This will strike a vital blow toward eliminating the abuses of profiteering and Exploitation. Fifth, the Congress should provide Immediately for full publicity for income tax' returns. There must be immediate steps toward equalization of wages and cost of living and effective steps to prevent a new margin from replacing the one to be dissolved. This means that there must be a permanent remedy for the high cost of living. The working people of the United States are speaking today in mandatory terms. They have reached the^ point at which they will no longer endure or suffer injustice by legislative enactment and profiteering by private pirates. If those in control of the legislative destinies of the country do not understand the needs of the workers, at least the workers themselves understand. They know the con- dition in which they find themselves. They know the restraint which they have practiced. They know the limit which there is to their endurance. The service they have given entitles them to the right to be heard. They will be heard. Their demand to be heard is a demand which comprehends the welfare of the country. The labor movement in its reconstruction program adopted in June, 1919, and In its declaration of December 13, 1919, has laid berore the country constructive proposals for relief with which the Congress of the United States is familiar. These proposals are in addition to the long standing economic policies and activities of the labor movement. The Congress of the United States cannot say that it has not had laid before It suggestions for effective action and plans for real relief. It can say only that it would not listen and would not act. Against the Congress of the United States there rests an indictment which an alert electorate will not overlook. There must be an overturn in Congress! Enemies must be defeated. Friends must be elected. There must be sent to Congress men who understand and men who can be trusted. The record of betrayal must for the sake of the nation's welfare give place to a record of constructive progress. The declaration of war by powerful and unscrupulous employers is recognized by the working people of America. For sixteen months and more, these employers have been conducting a silent, insidious warfare. In the face -of this warfare the labor movement will stand firm and will tolerate no breakdown of Its standards. It will resort to no undue haste and it will countenance no conduct that is not In strictest accord with trade union traditions, trade union laws and rules and the highest concept- of the patriotic duty of American citizens. But war forced upon the workers must be recognized and it is recognized. The war of another character but driving toward the same end typified by ihe enactments and the philosophy of the present Congress can be no less ignored and it will be no less ignored. The working people of the United States are aroused not only as trade unionists, but as trade unionists, workers and American citizens. Digitized by VjOO^IC

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 717 There is a determination throughout the United States to right the wrongs that have been inflicted. The indictment is based upon the established facts of what has taken place. The remedy in every case must be a remedy applied with the facts in view. We are going forward in the United States, not backward. No American citizen will rejoice that we have not been able to go forward with the present Congress, but since we have not been able to go forward with the present Con- gress, it i? the duty of Americans to elect a Congress with which we can go for- ward. To that task, then, bend all effort. The New Co-operative Spirit By MARY HEATON VORSE. „ During the recent Farmer, Labor, Co-operative Congress held in Chicago, there were a gpod many stories told of actual experiences calculated to Jolt the profiteers and to make the middleman feel that he had better cast around for another and more useful way by which to earn his living. None of the stories was more novel than that of Mr. O. C. Trask, assistant to the grand president of the United Brotherhood of Maintenance-of-Way Employes. His plan involved three new things: the employment of union funds for manu- facturing purposes, the use of union locals as the distributing centers, and the collective buying power of a great union to reduce the cost of buying. It is probably a pre-runner of similar movements in other unions. Carried far enough, it may well prove a new factor in unionism, using as it does the funds of the union on the one hand for the manufacture of goods, and on the other making use of the immense buying power of the union. There probably was no group of workers which was more miserable than the Maintenance-of-Way men. These are the men who work along the railroads — they are bridgemen, crossing men, section hands. Their scattered position made them difficult to organize. Their work isolated many of them, made it hard to assemble the men together, and easy to frustrate any attempt at unionism Until the war they worked twelve to sixteen hours for ninety cents a day. Since the war, there ,are still 100,000 or more who get less than three dollars a day. It might be said of them that of the country's prosperity they shared only the high prices. Before the war their union had only 18,000 members. The men were scattered over the roads and so fearful were they that Mr. Trask tells of having men beg him not to speak to them for fear that they would be discharged for having talked to a union official. Then the war came, and with It the railways were put under federal admin- istration, which permitted the Maintenance-of-Way men to organize. The Brother- hood increased in numbers until today it has a membership of 387,000. It has locals in the Canal Zone; it is powerful in Canada; but its men still remain wretchedly paid. “There are plenty of houses I could take you to where the women and children are barefooted," said Mr. Trask. The experiment rises from this misery. There were two ways or getting the men of this union on a better footing. One was to get more wages; the other to cut down the cost of living. To get more wages a strike was necessary. The funds of the union, while large, would soon vanish if paid out in strike bonuses to Digitized by Google

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718 The Kailroad Telegrapher. over a quarter of a million men. Another plan was worked out by Mr. A. El Barker and Mr. O. C. Trask. It was no less than that the unions should use funds to go into manufacturing on a large scale. “Why shouldn't we own our factories and use our 2,400 locals as distributing points?” was the heart of the idea which may very well become revolutionary in union methods, if the other brotherhoods follow the path plied by the Maintenance* of-Way men. The plan has worked so well that at present this union has a million and a quarter invested in its owm manufacturing plants. “This idea," said Mr. Trask, “had nothing remarkable about it except its simplicity and its feasibility. There was the money ready to be used, and there were our hundreds and thousands of workers and their families to be supplied.” Mr. Trask began to investigate the question of factories, and again the price which the public is today paying for the present system was unrolled before his eyes. He found that he could, by selling practically at cost, reduce the cost of living for his people twenty, forty, and even sixty per cent. * * * “It seems incredible,” he said, “that intelligent and sensible beings submit tamely to such waste and robbing. We have been born in the system. We are so accustomed to it that we go staggering along, carrying on our backs the non producers of society, the speculators in food, the speculators in raw materials, all the band of parasites. You have only to scratch the surface of things to know how great the burden is which society bears. “You may take any article you dhoose and the story is the same. Shirts, for Instance — the actual labor cost of a shirt is between 18 and 25 cents, and these shirts, whose material wholesale could not cost over one dollar, retail at |3.50.” * * m With the capital of the union, knitting mills and factories were bought; first stocking and glove factories. The best grade of article turned out by the underwear factories was a garment which cost $9.50 a dozen. These garments had been selling at $2 apiece retail. The glove factory manufactures every kind of glove, from a cheap glove which sells at a few cents a pair, up to the best horsehide glove which the men could buy at $1.45. This glove, retail, costs $2.50. In their stocking fac tory all kinds of stockings for men, women and children are manufactured, from the very cheapest cotton up to silk hosiery. They recently bought shirt factories which will manufacture sweaters, mufflers and similar goods. In almost all cases they have kept the former mill employes. The girls, however, have all been unionized. They get union wages, and wor*k from four to six hours less a week. By adding only a cent a dozen to the cost of gloves, it was found that the hours could be cut down four a week; but the cut in hours did not result in a cut of production. The girls are proud of their shop. It is pleasanter working when you know that you are helping other working people instead of working to fHl the pockets of profiteers. They are proud of their union, encouraged by their wages, and the output of the mills has not suffered from shorter hours. • * * All things manufactured by these union-owned shops are shown in little circu- lars which are distributed among the unions. The union of the Maintenance-of- Way men has become a mail order house. Only a mail order house with a difference. There are no profits. Labor working direct for labor. Working girls working shorter hours, getting better wages, because there are no profits to be made. Working men are buying clothes 40 per cent, 50 per cent, 60 per cent cheaper because there are no middleman’s pockets to fill. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 719 The producers have the satisfaction of working for workers. The buyers are sure that what they wear was made under union conditions, by well paid girls, working shorter hours. It was anticipated that “business” would object to this new venture. Business did, and, so to be sure of raw material, the whole output of a cotton plantation and wool is to be purchased directly from the producer. Court Decisions on Labor Questions It would seem almost as if the enactment of a law proposing to protect the rights of one party immediately raised the question as to whether the rights of another had not been unconstitutionally infringed. The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U. S. Department of Labor has just issued its annual compilation of decisions of courts affecting labor (Bulletin No. 258) ; and of the 180 odd cases included therein, more than a score involved the* power of the legislature to enact the law under which suit wras brought, the objector being in every case a person claiming to be injuriously affected by the act. Sometimes the court decides adversely to the legislature, as in the case of the Federal Child Labor law by which Congress undertook to exclude from inter- state commerce the products of child labor in the various states. It was held that the attempt to regulate the conditions covered by the law was in excess of the Federal authority, being purely within the control of the state, so that the law could not be enforced; so also of a law of Louisiana, declaring a special liability of public service corporations for injuries to any of their employes, the court holding the act unconstitutional because it placed in one class workmen engaged in nonhazardous and in hazardous occupations. Another instance in which the action of the lawmakers was held to exceed its constitutional powers involved a tipping law of California. This act did not actually prohibit the giving of tips, but forbade the employer to require the em- ployes to turn their tips over to him. This was said to be unwarranted interference With the right of employers and employes in contract. In most cases, however, the legislatures have been vindicated, as by the supreme courts of Massachusetts and Washington, upholding the Minimum Wage laws of the respective states; that of Pennsylvania sustaining a law forbidding night work by children under 16 years of age, and those of New Jersey and New York upholding progressive legislation on the subject of workmen’s compensation. The New York case involved the creation of a special fund to compensate second injuries, contributions to be made to it by employers of workingmen fatally injured and leaving no beneficiary under the act. The Clayton act, amending the Federal Anti-Trust law, was held by the United States District Court of Appeals to have set aside some of the judicial restrictions on the right of labor unions to maintain boycotts against objectionable products of manufacture. The machinists’ union of New York had blacklisted a printing press manufactured in Michigan, under open shop conditions. Boycotts and threats of strikes prevented drayage, installation, or repair of these presses; and it was held by a majority of the court that, though the very thing attempted by the unions had been pronounced unlawful in the famous Danbury Hatters’ case, the Clayton act rendered it legal at the present time. There was a strong dissent to this opinion, the statement being made that what would have been unlawful in this case before the passage of the Clayton act was not made lawful by the act. This bulletin presents a selection from many hundred cases examined, and its representative character renders it of great interest to students of the legal aspect of the labor problem. Digitized by VjOOQle

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Loss and Damage Freight Account, All Canadian Lines, Year Ending December 31, 1919 rn 720 The Railroad Telegrapher. O c bto 0)10 OJ O- O VO 3 : ^ io n o»© OJ OJ 00^1 © rH tt> t^W OO © rH OOt- O- © OO 00 09 © © © t-H © © 00 OJ O OJ* Hid CO t- HO •A : *1 . 3 . o :« . c •J4 • o i£ w _ j gS :a9S CONIOOHOJOO»lOn* * cd ia t-‘ » ci » t»* « oo w n n t»‘ t-* co n t» n o> a o n HO^^ONNWhC-IOOJNH (olOlOW VIOOMM HM N rH 1009 «HH © Nt-OOOO^HHWHlOHNHO^HOO^HIOHCeo |cOOJ(D«OOt^aoHt.oONNUJ«OOOOIOSOMt*hiO o9 09*©©o©rHidojrH©©ofi>^i©rH©odu»c9Ve9b **OJOOfN^NNN(0CO«NHOkO«NNNIAIOt*C( VO»U3t*NClOcOOWOOHHt*eON«t«Ot«IOO« -H-^'^ojrHio'-roJia^coJO^oOr-tooojt^ooeowio*-' oo t^t-© ©cj09 ©**•©«> «o®ect^o9©w»oe4©«»ocD ^©o9»^rHt^»b©V©od»do»»d®rH»d©ibo6©ajd«© 09 »-t eo t* CO 09 09 © 0- CO «o 09 O 00 04 »o © 09 €0 CO ^ 00 wa _rH ■*• to 00 ©CO ^09 ^0^© *”1,0- rH®* ^UJUJHCi 00 © C9 rH 00 co © eo © V © 09 04 © 09 «2 09 © CO id OJ CO *H w H'OCONO ©09Mt-HOJ4«^ *9 HHH ©09 f ©r-l ,4OtO» .©H-OIOOO ,©«©OOt-tO ,»4 ©JO .©NOIOO . 09 0- 09 09 r-i © ,©OJCOfQO«N ,lO« ©O- ,N0*«O ,©rHrH©e»^* .rH©0©0© .4(0 wV • co* cd co © ‘dddHoow *©cdod idoo *oo© rH© * ri rH * © A 'O rH • rH -r .1 H1 |00©©COO©©OJ0909© •®OJ«HO9©©*H-^© .©09 -*V -odao ©oaoofcr o-oood • id id 09 ©id • «d ©0- .©©© 00© © © rH CG m Q o o u Digitized by

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L Our motto: Organize — stay organized. der transparent celluloid . You will in ' this wap assist a Brother to secure funds Seven hundred and twenty-six new to apply for pardon from a life-term sen- members were initiated into the Order tence of which he ha* 8erved ™een during the month of May. years in pri30n • Brother Ezell is an old- time member of Div. 93. Congress has approved a bill which creates a woman's bureau in the Depart- ment of Labor. The bureau will promote the welfare of wage-earning women. There is sufficient oil in Mexico to meet the requirements of the United States for many years, reports the Fed- eral Bureau of Mines. Immense oil fields also exist in Latin-American coun- tries that border the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Charges that labor is slowing down and that it is inefficient are untrue, ac- cording to Dr. John Whyte, of New York City, who conducted a research for the National Association of Credit Men. A questionnaire was sent to manufacturers, and 169 replied. The replies contradict the inefficiency charge that is parroted by every advocate of anti-strike legisla- tion, every profiteer and every trade union opponent. The proposal to tax war wealth as a means of reducing the public debt is op- posed In this country. Bankers and corporate Interests declare the plan is confiscatory and Secretary of the Treas- ury Houston says it would dislocate busi- ness. The war wealth taxation committee of the British House of Commons, however, is giving serious consideration to the project. A worthy cause — Send one dollar to J. W. Ezell, Box “A“-4874, Pittsburgh , Penn., and you will receive a hand- carved nickel-point ivory stylus , inlaid with colored pearl , and your initials un- in a special survey now being made by the World of the industrial conditions it alleges that the labor shortage which was a controlling factor in the war no longer exercises such sway. There are no longer ten Jobs waiting for each man as the employers’ propagandists allege. The silk mills are running on short time, and thousands are being laid off in the shoe factories of the New England states, and the textile industry is on short time. Similar reports are com- ing from other sections of the country. A. L. Rose, director of New York City College Student Employment Office, takes issue with the farm shortage reports. He says: “The talk about the shortage of farm labor and the consequent scarcity of food is being discounted at this college. We have 150 students, 80 of whom are ex- perienced farm workers. They have ap- plied for farm work, but to date we have had not one demand for such labor. “We are beginning to believe there is more talk than fact in these stories about the shortage of labor.” There are 2,000,000 industrial accidents in the United States annually. Each of more than 700,000 industrial workers loses more than four weeks every year as a result of industrial accidents. There are at least 22,500 industrial deaths an- nually in this country and our industries turn out each year 15,000 workmen suf- fering from permanent disability. These figures are given to the Journal of the American Medical Association by R. M. Little, of the Safety Institute of America. The United States Bureau of Labor esti- Digitized by Google

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722 The Railroad Telegrapher. mates that 450,000,000 days' time is lost every year by 50,000,000 workers in this country on account of sickness. Governor Smith has vetoed a bill which, would remove restrictions against women being employed at night in printing or publishing establishments. “I regard this proposed enactment," said the governor, “as a distinctly back- ward step for the state of New York to take at a time when there is interna- tional recognition of prohibition of night work for women as a health measure. If we exempt printing establishments this year we will be urged to exempt some other establishments next year, and gradually the statute will be weakened so as to make it useless." The American Woolen Co., known as the woolen trust, has been indicted by a Federal grand jury on the charge of profiteering. Government officials state that besides enormous salaries received by Mr. Wood from two companies, last year he received $515,842.86 in commis- sions. This is charged as a part of the manufacturing and selling expense of the goods. Last year Mr. Wood declared that prices of living must come down. He pro- tested against Lawrence, Mass., mer- chants raising prices. Mr. Wood’s pro- test, however, did not include woolen goods. Federal Judge Anderson, of Indian- apolis, has ruled against several sections of the Lever food control act, and has upheld Section 9. When the Lever act was before Congress it was agreed that it did not apply to strikers, but since then Section D has been used against strikers. The sections of the law that Judge An- derson rejects include Section 4, which makes the willful destruction of neces- saries for the purpose of enhancing prices unlawful. The court held that Section 4 was faulty because it did not contain any penalty for violation. The American Economic League ofBal timore makes this statement in its press service that is worth remembering: “Some editors, probably not so inno- cent as they pretend, talk as though they honestly believe a striking laborer to be in the same class with a profiteering landlord. Not for their enlightenment, but to deprive them of the opportunity to pretend ignorance, let it be explained that there is a fundamental difference be- tween the two. The striking laborer is trying to retain a greater share of whai he earns. The profiteering landlord is trying to get more of what others earn." Coincident with additional reports of nation-wide price * cutting, the Depart- ment of Labor’s bureau of labor statistics announces that food stuff prices between March 15 and April 15 showed the great est increase of any 30-day period since April, 1915. Reports from retailers in 51 cities, thf bureau said, showed that in the 30 days dating from March 15, prices for 22 com- mon articles of food advanced 5 per cent and reached the highest point on record The bureau reported an average in crease during April of more than 4 per cent in wholesale prices of various com- modities. Clothes and clothing was the only group showing a decrease. Waste in transporting and wholesale marketing of food is a vital element con tributing to the high cost of living, de^ dares the Federal Trade Commission in a report on the wholesale marketing of food. The commission's theory is that competition among food sellers will re fleet in retail prices all economies re- sulting from losses due to wasteful methods of handling. The policy of the American Federation of Labor recommends the establishment of Rochedale co-operative wholesale and retail stores to guarantee the reflection of all economies in distribution by selling the workers their necessaries of life ** net cost plus the sales expense. gitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 723 That the threatened influx of immi- grants has started is evidenced by the re- port from Ellis Island for last week. Despite the difficulty in securing pass- ports, over 9,000 immigrants landed. Su- perintendent P. A. Paker declares that the force of inspectors will have to be enlarged to meet the increasing number now landing and those who are endeavor- ing to secure permission to come over. In telling of his experience, he said: “Immigrants are coming to this country as fast as the limited transportation facilities can bring them. There is every evidence that, even with the post-war passport restrictions, there would be the greatest rush of people of this country than was ever known in the history of immigration if there were only ships to bring them.” The Sterling-Lehlbach bill granting pensions to government employes has been signed by President Wilson, and will result in immediately retiring ap- proximately 8,000 employes in the District of Columbia from Government service, and offers a like advantage to the 100,000 Federal workers here. This legislation is the successful culmination of a 20-year fight for the retirement of superanuated Government employes. The battle was taken up by the American Federation of Labor and continued actively at each ses- sion of congress until the National Fed- eration of Federal Employes was formed. Since that time that organization has been unceasingly urging congress to make the measure a law, assisted by the American Federation of Labor. Their joint efforts have been crowned with suc- cess. To abolish child labor not merely by prohibiting employment, but by provid- ing suitable education is the aim of the stay-in-school campaign now being car rled on or Just completed in 20 states in co-operation with the children’s bureau of the Department of Labor. The cam- paign will be followed in the fall by a back-to-school drive in order to round up the children who failed to report at the opening of school. An encouraging feature of the campaign is that six of the states taking part in it are among the ten in which more than 20 per cent of all the children between 10 and 15 years of age are regularly engaged in agricul- tural work. In three of the six states taking part in the stay-in-school cam- paign the percentage of illiterates over 10 years of age represent one-fifth of the total population. Moving pictures and slides are being utilized in some places to show the harmful effects of too early work and the advantages of schooling. The alert mind of President Gompers was in its element when he discussed the Kansas “can’t-strike” law with Gov- ernor Allen of that state in New York. . The governor insisted that the law was as much against capitalists as laborers, and said when the act was being consid- ered the capitalists favored it, but they “wanted the law with the teeth all lo- cated on the lower jaw.’’ “But I am glad to tell you,” continued the governor, “that when the law was finally framed, it had the teeth located on the upper jaw and on the lower jaw.” The Allen partisans cheered this illus- tration of the governor's impartiality, but President Gompers quickly “put the shoe on the other foot” by this reply. “You know the lower jaw is that upon which the pressure is made. The lower jaw moves. The upper jaw is typical of those who have power and strength. The upper jaw does not move. It is station- ary. It stands pat and crushes the lower jaw.” An interesting feature of Mr. W. Jett Lauck’s important report to the railroad labor board showing that profiteering and not increased labor costs caused the high cost of living, is the examination made of the incomes of corporations. Cor- porations receiving one-sixth of the cor- porate income of the United States made $800,000,000 more a year during 1916-18 than during 1912-14 If all the corpora- tions did as well as these, they received $4,800,000,000 more a year \n those three years than during the prewar period. Digitized by tjOOQle

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724 The Railroad Telegrapher. With 110,000,000 people in the United States or 22,000,000 families of five each, every family paid $240 per year more to these corporations during the war than they did in the years before the war. Mr. Lauck, however, contending that the fig- ures for profits are much less than the real profits because of various methods used to hide from the public the real gains, declares that an average of $1,200 for a family of five in the three yean 1916-18 is a highly conservative estimate of the actual cost of profiteering. This means that an average of $400 a year was paid by each family of five to make up, not the total corporate profits during the three war years, but only those profits in excess of the prewar gains. Elsewhere in the report Mr. Lauck shows that the total profits of 1919 were almost as much as those of 1916-18. C. A. WRIGHT, Cert. 3, Division 49. An Oldtimer C. A. Wright, familiarly known among his co-workers as "Dad Wright," a mem ber of Denver & Rio Grande Railway System Div. No. 49, began his career as a telegrapher on the I. C. & L. Railroad, now the Big Four, on May 10, 1865. From the early age of thirteen he has teen signing the payroll. He worked as fron- tier operator on the M. K. & T. from the Kansas Line to the Arkansas Rirer and opened the first railroad telegraph office in Indian Territory in 1871. In January, 1889, he entered the sendee of the D. & R. G., since which time he ha? been in its employ and has held con tinuous membership in the Order for over thirty-one consecutive years. He is now 68 years young and has the good wishes of The Telegrapher and its read- ers for many years of health and hap piness. Digitized by VjOOQle

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PERSONAL MENTION The following births have been re- ported since the last issue of The Telegrapher. To Bro. and Mrs. T. E. Williams, of Orosi, Cal., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. A. Odell, of Sul- tana, Cal., a ooy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. O. Robinson, of Del Rey, Cal., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. C. A. Hartshorn, of Janesville, Wis., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. M. A. Sandmier, of Otley, Iowa, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. F. C. Smith, of Pueb- lo., Colo., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. J. W. Tangney, of Edmunds, N. D., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. Wm. J. Tangney, of Hurdsfleld, N. D., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. W. C. Small, of Mon- mouth, 111., a boy. • To Bro. and Mrs. A. E. McCans, of Chandler, Okla., a boy. To Bro. and Mts. Emil Tronstad, of Minneapolis, Minn., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. J. G. Williams, of Chatfield, Ohio, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. C. D. Bunnell, of Hamlet, Ind., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. G. A. Rose, of River- dale, Mich., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. F. W. Kipp, of Steu- benville, O., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. M. L. Henry, of Pi- nola, Miss., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. J. Cavellier, of Mallory, N. Y., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. E. J. Seymoure, of Schaffer, Mich., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. D. McFadden, of Isa- bel, La., a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. Alfred Chard, of Cal- gary, Alberta, a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. A. P. Herrin, of Savannah, Ga., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. W. S. Minnier, of Sanbury, Pa., a boy. To Bro. and Mrs. H. Haiste, of Adair, 111., a bpy. , To Bro. and Mrs. G. J. Donnelly, of Washington, D. C., a boy and a girl. To Bro. and Mrs. H. B. Wood, of Oak- ley, Kan., a girl. The following marriages have been re- ported since the last issue of The Tlelgrapher. At Mt. Vernon, 111., Bro. W. G. Thomp- son, of Div. 58, to Miss Sadie. At Fresno, Cal., Bro. P. N. Chamber- lain, of Div. 61, to Miss Grace Loose- moore. At Sterling, Neb., Bro. B. L. Faist, of Div. 37, to Miss Maude Shirley. At LaValle, Wis., Bro. J. E. Holden, of Div. 76, to Miss Ruth Garfoot At Janesville, Wis., Bro. B. F. Eller, of Div. 23, to Miss Winifred MacMillan. At St. Louis, Mo., .Bro. Myer Golub- chin, of Div. 26, to Miss Minnie Sanders. At Richmond Hill, N. Y., Sister Ger- trude A. Craven, of Div. 44, to Mr. A. Zimmerman. At Butte, Montana, Sister Edith Stone, of Div. 54, to Mr. W. E. Shields. At White Bluff, Tenn., Bro. W. Mc- Donald, of Div. 57, to Miss Blanche Martin. At Terrell, Tenn., Sister Maude E. Beck, of Div. 57, to Mr. Bradley. At Tiffin, O., .Bro. A. R. Hesse, of Div. 33, to Miss Louise Heffelfinger. At Livingston, * Ky., Bro. J. W. Jack- son, of Div. 58, to Miss Flora Pitman. At Watauga, Tex., Sister Marie Cade, Digitized by VjOOQle

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726 The Railroad 1 elegrapher. of Div. 88, to Bra E. C. Walthall, of Dlv. 6. At Jesup, Ga., Bro. P. C. Deriso, of Div. 16, to Miss Lillian Scott. At St. Charles, 111., Bro. W. M. Pen- dall, of Div. 96, to Miss Blanche Hall- burg. The Telegrapher extends congratula- tions to the happy couples. The following deaths have been re- ported since* the last issue of The Telegrapher. Wife of Bro. E. W. Nicholson, of Div. 44. Wife of Bro. A. W. Barkalow, of Div. 42. Bro. J. R. Smith, of Div. 42. Bro. Henry Hoffman, of Div. 42. Bro. J. H. Snelling, of Div. 44. Mother of Bro. E. T. Claesson, of Div. 71. Wife of Bro. B. P. Best, of Div. 15. Mother-in-law of Bro. B. E. de Jour- nette, of Div. 69. Bro. Frank M. Barr, of Div. 30. Bro. George C. Lunsted, of Div. 30. Son of Bro. Thos. Brennan, of Ddv. 23. Infant son of Bro. E. J. Seymour, of Div. 76. Mother of Bro. D. H. Powers, of Div. 44. Wife of Bro. J. A. Depew, of Grand Division. Bro. O. E. Lane, of Div. 33. Daughter of Bro. J. M. O’Brien, of Div. 37. Bro. N. O. Faison, of Div. 36. Bro. B. S. Demmick, of Div. 53. Wife of Bro. C. A. Stone, of Div. 63. Mother of Bro. Geo. Parr, of Div. 53. Bro. John Stewart, of Div. 54. Bro. A. J. Jones, of Div. 62. Mother of Bro. H. A. Ware, of Ddv. 76. Grandson of Bro. J. W. Price, of Div. 35. Bro. Samuel L. Bennett, of Div. 45. Father of Bro. G. G. Gibson, of Div. 28. Bro. Jack Lambdin, of Div. 40. Bro. Chester R. King, of Div. 41. Mother of Bro. F. W. Moore, of Div. 49. Mother of Bro. D. W. Hunt, of Div. 43. Father of Bro. A. A. Oliver, of Div. 37. bather of Sisters Marvel L. Brown and Buleah B. Rhyner, both of Div. 54. Mother-in-law of Bro. W. Ray Walker, of Div. 70. Mother of Bro. J. S. Reulet, of Div. 25. Daughter of Bro. A. M. Maloney, of Div. 127. Mother of Bro. A. M. Maloney, of Div. 127. • The bereaved relatives have the sym- pathy of all. WANTED. Whereabouts of Thomas H. Jacobs, of Div. 23. Last heard of April 22d, at Ottumwa, Iowa. Important. If you see this communicate with C. B. Rawllks, Mo. State Life Bldg., St Louis, Missouri. Whereabouts of Operator Ben Me- Quire. Last heard of at Tulsa, Okla. If you see this communicate with your uncle, P. L. McQuire, Box 75, Route 1, Weatherford, Oklahoma. C. V. Wales, Weatherford, Okla Addresses of Operators J. G. Beck. Wdl Kerrigan, S. Bromagin and F. Bar- rett, who went from Ft. Slocum to Camp Humphreys, Va.,* with me in May, 1918. Boys, if you see this write. M. J. Halpin, 69 Ruggles St, Dunkirk, N. Y. Wish to trade positions on any divi- sion except Nebraska Division on Union Pacific. Have third trick. Seniority since Dec, 6, 1917. G. W. JACK90H, point of Rocks, Wyo. Present address of J. R. O’Brien. For merly worked for G. N. at New Rock- ford. “J. R.” if you see this write. J. F. Haley, New Rockford, N. D. Whereabouts of J. R. Kenny. Worked on the Colorado Midland as operator a* Leadviile, Colorado, in 1917. Last heard Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 727 of in the Argonne Woods, France, Nov. 9, 1918. C. R. MoGkegor, Scandia, Kan. Present address of H. C. Collins. Last heard of at Okmulgee, Okla., working for the Santa Fe. “Windy” if you see this write. C. A. Champ, Brookings, S. D. Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Geo. A, Sprague, communicate with his sister, Mrs. F. A. Forche, 609 Fifth St., Oskaloosa, Iowa. F. A. Fobche, Oskaloosa, Iowa. Whereabouts of A. Z. Rose. Last heard of at Keddie, Cal. Any informa- tion will be greatly appreciated by his sister. Miss M. Rose, 72 Wayne Ave., Suffern, N. Y. LOST OR STOLEN. Card No. 60096, Cert. 3795, Div. 7, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 27750, Cert. 3007, Div. 61, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual Card No. 6029 Cert. 1978, Div. 42, for year 1920. * Annual Card No. 5230, Cert. 454, Div. 27, for year 1920. Annual Card No. 5375, Cert. 245, Div. 153, for year 1920. Card No. 40160, Cert. 47, Div. 60, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual Card No. 5461, Cert. 12, Div. 40, for year 1920. , Card No. 21402, Cert. 726, Div. 22, tor term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 61253, Cert. 211, Div. 62, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual Card No. 7499, Cert. 4937, Div. 7, for year 1920. Card No. 34803, Cert. 491, Div. 71, for term ending June 30, 1920. * Card No. 46598, Cert. 393, Div. 33, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual Card No. 2748, Cert. 2028, Div. 119, for year 1920. Card No. 62721, Cert. 847, Div. 5, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 23651, Cert. 1532, Div. 11, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 42442, Cert. 507, Div. 11, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 48006, Cert. 2579, Div. 59, for term ending June 30, 1920. Card No. 59410, Cert. 1443, Div. 53, for term ending* June 30, 1920. Card No. 12783, Cert 463, Div. 4, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual Card 973, Cert 187, Div. 165, for year 1920. Card No. 28928, Cert. 42, Div. 116, for term ending June 30, 1920. Annual Card No. 7582, Cert. 793, Div. 44, for year 1920. Card No. 39977, Cert. 1171, Div. 15, for term ending Dec. 31, 1919. Card No. 59007, Cert. 301, Div. 9, for term ending June 30, 1920. Digitized by VjOOQle

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H. C. L. CURES. (By Kate E. Carr, President.) It is nearly a year since Attorney General Palmer told us very confiden- tially that he was about to reduce the evil of high prices and be able to com- plete the job in less than six months’ time. But, like that august gentleman’s periodical “Red Revolutions,” the an- nouncement has never materialized. Mr. Palmer’s theory for# lowering the cost of living was based on the assump- tion that by arresting and prosecuting a few hundred retail dealers here and there and by persuading the meat trust to divide itself by five, the profiteers would immediately turn their coffers over to the rightful owners— the con- sumers. I suppose that a mentally de- veloped child would have realized that a nationwide economic disturbance could not be cured by inflicting fines or thirty- day Jail sentences on a few hundred grocers and clothing and shoe dealers. So it came to pass that most of us accepted Mr. Palmer’s declaration at its face value and decided that the attorney general was a timely Santa Claus, while we, the erstwhile producers and con- sumers, would have nothing to do but bear our burdens for a few more days when our mutual distress would be re- lieved by our self-appointed Santa. But as political action, no matter how drastic, has always been, and is futile when it attempts to deal with economic problems, Christmas came without any reductions in the H. C. L. Being disappointed in the Palmer pre- diction, necessity urged us to try other schemes. Price fixing sounded good aad resulted in our paying twenty-five cents per pound for sugar when our budgets indicated that we could not afford to pay more than twelve cents for it Since then we have worn overalls while on parade duty and launched the Consum- er’s Thrift Movement, while prices have continued to leap and crawl steadily up- ward. The Thrift Movement endeavors to reduce the price of sirloin steak by hav- ing us buy and learn to cook chuck Very shortly the demand for steak, es- pecially the cheaper cuts, trebled. The natural outcome of this experiment soon brought all classes of steak up to the T-bone level in price relations. Then we boycotted eggs and used more milk only to discover that while eggs were cheaper while the boycott lasted the In- creased demand for milk had raised the price of that commodity to a level that more than offset the few cents saved on eggs. However, the Consumer’s Thrift Move- ment is teaching us thrift which, al- . though it may not be the source of any startling revelations to some, can hurt no one. -Furthermore, it is an organixa- tion which gets the housewives and breadwinners interested in a vital sub- ject which may ultimately be the cause of getting them to think for themselves instead of relying so religiously on the paid mutterings of a capitalist politician. And if that happy day ever arrives, the producers and the consumers will probably discover that the fundamental cause of high prices is the current infla tion of currency. It is quoted on good Digitized by Googk

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The LVulroad Telegrapher. 72!) authority that the volume of money and of credits of this country is now about five times greater than it was in 1914. Dollars, like any other commodity, are naturally cheaper when they are plenti- ful The actual value of the dollar with present currency inflation is about forty cents. Consequently it takes two and one-half forty-cent-dollars to buy what a one-hundred-cent dollar would buy five or six years ago. MISCELLANEOUS NOTES. (By Clara J. Brady, G. S. & T.) Just because we have not been adver- tising regularly of late, don’t think for one Instant that we have discontinued to function. Ten cents still pays your dues for one month. When you are making up your budget for the month, please re- member to send sixty cents to No. 91 Wood street, Providence, R. I., and yours truly will mail you your membership card for the last half of 1920. Will Sister Iris Henderson kindly send us her present address. Mail sent to you at Kamloops, B. C., has been returned. Eligible applicants on the Spokane Di- vision of the .Great - Northern are at- tempting to organize a local. All good luck to sisters. Here’s hoping we can send you a charter. Sister Coddington of Chowchilla, Cal., will be the newly appointed secretary- treasurer of Division 53. Sister Walters of Ashland, Ore., who has served so faithfully in that office for so long, has been forced to resign on account of other work. We are now well supplied with the gold emblem pins and any one desiring one will soon become the possessor of our order’s emblem if they will make their wants known and mail us the small sum of seventy cents. Sister Carr is growing weary of be- ing the star witness for our department in The Telegrapher each month. She says she is certain that the ideas of the membership are more valuable than the ideas of one member, the grand pres- ident, and so she wants to take a re- cess from the monopoly of the front page and give it to the members. For the next few months our department in Tiie Telegrapher will be an open forum to the membership on the sub- ject, “What We Can Do to Assist Our Parent Organization, or Organized La bor?” Send your copy to Sister Carr, 413 Pacific street, Olympia, Wash. This is a new idea for auxiliary departments in official organs, so let us make it successful by doing our bit now. Digitized by L^ooQle

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Oh, Boy! Just a little more of the spirit like that from above, Just a little more kindness, a little more love. Being a little more pleasant will make a lit- tle more joy, Wouldn’t this be the; better way? You bet it would, Oh, Boy. Just a little more good-wili one unto an- other, Just a little more meaning to that word Brother, Being a little less hateful will mean a little more joy, Wouldn’t this be the better way? You bet it would, Oh, Boy. Just a little less growling and instead a smile, Just a little more laughter will help in time of trial. Being a little more cheerful will make a lit- tle more joy, Wouldn’t this be the better way? You bet it would, Oh, Boy. Just a little less knocking, there are better things to do, Just a little more boosting would look bet- ter, too, Being a booster insteau of a knocker will give you more joy. Wouldn’t this be the better way? You bet it would, Oh, Boy. Just a little more brightness as the days go by, Just make some one else happy, you can do it if you try, Doing some one else a favor will give both a little more joy, Wouldn’t this be the better way? You bet it would, Oh, Boy. Just drop that old grouch that’s been hang- ing on so long, Let us all get upon our feet and sing a good old song, Tilings will come our way pretty soon and bring us all some joy, We'll appreciate them all the more, you bet we will, Oh, Boy. M. M. Crane, Div. 124. The Chief Dispatcher's Prayer. Give me, Oh, give me, some power and give it quick. The tonnage now is heavy and, Oh, so very thick, I cannot move the cattle, the sheep, or goats, or hogs, While down at Valley Junction there are forty cars of logs. Give, me, Oh, give me, some power and do it now, I’m behind with my hauling, I am, I surely vow, And without this power I cannot turn a wheel. Oh, let me have an engine if sympathy you feel. Oh, Heavens ! it’s all over the power yon did not send, This biinky road is blowed up and now 1 see my end. And when you send the flowers and my still face you sec*, Just bear In mind I’m resting and with the powers that be. A. A. Snapp, Cert 84, Div. 31. The O. R. T. Foremost of them who help to stem The barters of the sloth, That would not see each side agree With justice to them both ; But ever sees and would appease Complaint of either side. Would e’er submit that which is fit And would in justice bide. O’er vale and hill each factory, mill And railway would they see All spell success in their progress Working in harmony ; They shall rejoice and raise their voice To see each land a-fired • In piece to work when none shall shirk Those hiring or the hired. When each shall turn to truth and learn The rule of Joss and gain. When all shall know as forth they go That truth and justice reign ; Their mighty might is armed for right Ever on fairness bent, Nor are they vain but ever sane. Quiet, self-confident. The Light Who taught each deed and thought Whom they have called their creed. Who bade them live in trust and give A hand to those in need ; So shall they bless His righteousness And aid o’er land and sea ; And in each deed is wrought their creed; The followers of the key. Cert. 4617, Div. T. Digitized by L-ooQie

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Literally. “Was Gabby much perturbed when his machine turned over?' “Well, he seemed to be very much up- set/* All She Asked. Borleigh (at the dance) : “May I offer you some refreshment?” The Girl: “Yes. Just give me a few minutes to myself.” The Reason. “Press agents rarely go into bank- ruptcy/* “No wonder. Their lie-abilities are also their assets.” — Baltimore American. ModesL Miss Willing: “Norah, if Mr. Simpson calls while I’m out, hold him until I re- turn/* Norah: “Oh, miss, sure Oi wouldn’t like to do that.** • Also Capillary. • Jack is perfectly devoted to that blonde. His family thinks it is a case of hypnotism.** “Huh! Seems to me more like chem- ical attraction.” — Boston Transcript. Still Angry. Mr. and Mrs. Freshwed had had their first quarrel. Unlike a woman, however, she was the first to sue for peace. Sitting coyly on the arm of the chair on which her husband was seated, she said coaxingly: “Come, Clarence, kiss my cheek and make it up!” Clarence looked up with a shrug. “I’ll kiss it if you like.” he said, “but it doesn’t look as if it wants any more making lip.” — Dallas News. Free Advice. “Is there any way a man can avoid paying alimony?” asked the friend who was seeking free advice. “Sure,” replied the lawyer. “He can stay single or stay married.” — Detroit Free Press. The Senior's Jest. Senior: “I've got a girl that’s been in the hospital in Durham for nearly a year.** Soph: “Too bad, chappie. What’s the matter with her?” Senior: “She’s a nurse.” — Carolina Tar Baby. Fully Clarified. “Notice the spelling of ‘potatoe* and tomatoe' on the bill of fare?” s&id the finicky patron of the ham-and joint. “Yep,” said the flippant one. “They probably want to show that, since the spelling-reform agitation, they spell with more e’s.” Phonetical. James Lawler says there once was a fellow who said to his friend: “I'll bet you $10 that Lake Michigan is Su- perior to Lake Ontario.” And the friend, being a * good sport, tnough poorly versed in geography, replied: “Huron.” — Grand Rapids News. Compliments All Around. “I desire no remuneration for this poem,” remarked the long-haired poet, as he drifted into the editorial sanctum. “I merely submit it as a compliment.” “Then, my dear fellow, permit me to return the compliment,” replied the edi- tor, with true journalistic courtesy.— London Tit Bits. Digitized by CsOOQle

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732 The Railboad Telegrapher. A Rise Out of Him. A farmer and an Irisnman were at work in a field when an airplane passed over their heads. “I d hate to be up in that thing/* said the farmer. “Faith, I*d hate to be up there and not in it!’’ retorted the Irishman. — Car- toons Magazine . Not Good Finance. A famous financier was taken seri- ously ill at the age of 90 and felt that his end was near. “Nonsense,” said the doctor, “the Lord isn’t going to take you till you've passed the hundred mark.” “No, my friend,” said the aged banker, “that wouldn’t be good finance. Why should the Lord wait till I reached par when he can pick me up at 90?” — Argo- naut. Taking the Sting Out. “It' seems to me,” said the old-fash- ioned man, “that $75 is a lot of money to pay for a ready-made suit of clothes.” “Perhaps it is,” replied the purchaser, “but the salesman made the transac- tion as painless for me as possible.” “How so?” “He told me the same suit would prob- ably cost $100 next year.” — Birmingham Age-Herald. Dangerous Subject The youth seated himself in the den- tist’s chair. He wore a wonderful striped silk shirt and an even more wonderful checked suit. He had the vacant stare that often goes with both. “I am afraid to give him gas,” the dentist said to his assistant. “Why?” “Well,” replied the dentist, “how will I know when he is unconscious?” — American Legion Weekly. The Logic of the Case. The Young One: “The old man said he wanted to get her off his hands, and yet he wouldn’t listen to me wnen I spoke of marrying her.” The Wise One: “Probably that’s the reason he wouldn’t listen to you.” Worth Making Known. A touring revue company which car- ried its own orchestra played in a small town. As the local theater had an or- chestra of its own, they doubled up. On the first night there was an awful discord. “What’s the matter?” whispered the producer to the local orchestra leader, “our men are playing half a tone lower than the others.” “1 know they are,” said the leader. “Thats the only way to let the audience know that we’ve got two orchestras.”— London Answers. The Silver Lining. Life had become very hard for Mrs. Slopton through the thriftless habits or her husband. They had to move to a tiny, two-roomed house, and the poor woman even had to go out to work. But she didn’t fret; she wasn’t that kind. She always put a bold face on things. “You must feel pretty miserable in this poky place, after the houses you’re used to,” said a neighbor sympatheti- cally. “Well, I’m quite happy here,” re- torted Mrs. Slopton brightly. “In fact I’m happier here than I’ve been for years. You see, my husband can’t throw me down the cellar stairs, like he often used to, because we haven’t any.” w Digitized by VjOOQle J

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AN INQUIRY AND A DECLARATION (Continued) Lest the impression might gain adher- ents that my accusations of waste are chargeable alone to the excessive num- ber of delegates in attendance at the Grand Division sessions I hasten to cor- rect this impression, in this, my second installment, and trust I may have as an attentive an audience as my previous article had. So then to resume. Let us consider other matters in connection with the conduct of a convention, matters that are just as deserving of our earnest con- sideration as the other items already listed. Let us look at the order of busi- ness in connection with the reading of the “Officers' Reports/’ These are print- ed in pamphlet form and contain in se- rial order the different things each Of- ficer has done during his two-year term and concluding with recommendations for improvement and betterment as suggest- ed by his individual experience. These reports are in order and should be con- tinued and encouraged, for it is only through such reports will the rank and file of the membership learn whether an officer has been true to his oath and whether he has secured the results we have a right to expect. My criticism is not in connection with the report, but the fact that the valuable time of the con- vention is consumed in listening to the reading of these many voluminous re- ports. If my memory serves me it re- quired three days at St. Louis to finish this “order of business” and aside from the various Committees to whom differ- ent items were referred there are not over a dozen delegated who could tell you one thing that was read. I would sug- gest that these reports be prepared far enough in advance of the convention so that a copy could be put into the hands of every delegate elect at least two weeks prior to the opening of the convention. This would give him an opportunity to read them over and give to them the at- tention they deserve. It would also serve to acquaint each delegate with condi- tions on the entire continent and when these various matters come up for de- cision he would be in a position to in- telligently discuss and vote upon the dif- ferent phases of the reports and recom- mendations, and if there was anything of special significance to the particular section of the country from whence he came, he would have an opportunity of knowing when it was to come up and if in favor or against, would be in a po- sition to speak with understanding and wisdom. Proposed amendments are handled this way and it is well and wise that they should be; the matter just re- ferred to is of equal importance, and in some cases of more importance, conse- quently should, in my humble opinion, be treated in the same manner. I am aware that it will deprive some of our “Daniel Websters” and embryo “Demosthenes” of shining opportunities, but then I am com- mitted to the proposition of economy with efficiency and this suggestion is in line. In round figures it cost the Order ap- proximately twenty-three thousand dol- lars to hear the “reports” read at St. Louis and It will cost more at Savannah for the reason there are more officers to read reports. What do you think about it? Do you consider it worth what you are asked to pay for it? If you do then you must accord me the privilege of dis- agreeing with you, for I don’t I believe the purpose of such reports would be bet- ter served by adopting the plan I sug- gest, at least the delegates wrould be in a position to vote more intelligently. Digitized by VjOOQle

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734 Thb Railroad Telegrapher. Another matter that engaged attention during my attendance at the last con- vention was the disregard that a great many of the delegates showed for their obligations, both as members and men, in connection with their presence at the different sessions. It assuredly works no hardship on any man to be compelled to continue in at- tendance during the limited hours desig- nated by the convention, and still many of the delegates found this impossible to do. I did not notice any of them refus- ing to accept perdiem for shirking of their responsibilities. This is a matter for the careful attention of our Grand Officers, for I believe this matter is sole- ly within their province and powers. I would suggest that a plan be devised whereby a careful check might be kept of each delegate’s attendance, and if he is not present attending to the duties he was sent there to perform, then he should be denied pay. It is not sufficient that he hand in a “card” at the begin- ning of the morning and afternoon ses- sion, but it should be seen to that he con- tinues to remain during the period of each session and if he absents himself, it should be known to the officers, and when “pay day” arrives he should be “docked” the same as If he was absent from duty back on the job. The Order assuredly pays good salaries and is entitled to good service, and any man who shirks or neglects to do his full duty should be deprived of his w'age. The Order has for too long been a lenient “boss.” It might be that the charge of negligence, even indifference might lie against it, but be- cause this condition has become settled is no reason why an effort should not be made to correct it. I want to see every delegate get everything to which he is en- titled. Twelve dollars a day is not too much to pay the man who does his work conscientiously and efficiently, but the man that shirks, the man who absents himself upon one pretext or another or without even the semblance of an ex- cuse, as is too often the case, simply be- cause he learns that he may take ad- vantage without fear of being detected, should be refused pay, and in addition to this I would cbmpel the Grand Secretarj to make special note of such delin- quencies to be reported direct to the members of the System from which such delegate was sent. I am of the opinion if some such drastic measure was adopted it would be possible to se- cure better attendance and assuredly a better class of men to aspire for the hon- or of delegate. It may be that I invest the position of delegate with considerable more honor than should naturally attach to it, but experience has demonstrated to me that it is indeed an honor and a distinguished honor to be chosen to rep- resent a body of men before a convention of the importance of such an Order as the Railroad Telegraphers. Too often k man is selected not because of his ability or fitness, but because of the fact that he is a “good fellow” with a hearty laugh, a pleasing smile or a special line of "bull* with the result that the duties and con sequent responsibilities rest but light- ly upon his shoulders. He has worked hard, he is for the time being temporarily a visitor to a new country, why not make the best of it and have a ^ood time and a much-needed vacation; the other fel- lows will attend to the business, and so on ad infinitum. Believe me, broth- ers, I have heard these expressions more than once, and not only have I heard them, but I have seen them put into ef- fect. It is time this class of men were elected to remain at home. You are pay- ing for something you don't get and the Order is being cheated in the bargain. This might be considered another ar- gument in favor of a diminished repre sentation, for this is a condition hard- ly tenable should the representtion be only that of General Chairman, General Secretary-Treasurer and four delegates at large, for in such an event efficiency, ability and fitness would be factors that wrould largely influence the members In their selection of men to represent them. There is, no doubt, in my mind that should such a thing come to pass, it would be a keen competition between brains, as evidenced on the different Systems, and in order to secure the nomination for a delegate it would be necessary to dent Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 735 onstrate ability of a high order, and in this way the Order would be served by men who were proven to be fit This is another phase of the situation worthy of your earnest thought. A. Steele Penne. OUR GRAND DIVISION SESSIONS. The Brother writing in the May issue of the “Telegrapher” signing “Steele Penne” certainly made a center shot, and it is a regret that he did not sign his name so he might receive the thanks of the membership. Every "biennial con- vention” is increasing in cost, and tbe ex- penditure of money is not balanced in beneficial returns to the Order of Rail- road Telegraphers. Like the observing Brother, I have at- tended three conventions, including the last one at St. Louis, and realize some- thing must be done at the next conven- tion in Savannah to reduce the expenses of these gatherings by increasing the rep- resentative unit from one hundred to two or three hundred, and at this the biennial sessions would be large enough, and might perhaps do business in a more orderly manner and with greater dis- patch. The reference of the Brother to howling and horse play is only too true, and is aggravated by numbers as they increase at each convention. In fact, the last ses- sion at times seemed more like a Piute Indian war dance than a gathering of men for rational discussion of their or- ganized industrial welfare, and some questions were decided by noise more than they were by sober reason. This might be very entertaining for the dele- gates, but it is hard on the Treasury* as minutes cost money when a large dele- gation like the last Grand Session is present. It is also quite noticeable that bombast and hurrah is most in evidence when some Brother protests against what seems to him a reckless expenditure of money. In fact at times it seemed as if the conventions were like a lot of drunk- en sailors when it came to appropriating and spending cash. I am inclined to think there is a number of delegates attending these conventions who look for their coming more as a junket trip than a real business matter which requires thought and work, and where results should be apparent for the money ex- pended. Every convention I have atttended I read in the President's report a para- graph calling attenion of the delegates direct, and membership indirect, to the necessity of increasing the Protective Fund, but if the increased cost of holding biennial sessions are to prevail, then “good-by” to the much-desired “Million- Dollar Protective Fund” that I have heard of. Well that is a review of a condition; It might be well to offer some other sug- gestions In addition to a decrease In delegation. The reading of officers’ re- ports might be dispensed with, and this monotonous feature reduced from per- sonal reading to printed distribution and permit delegates to read them some other time; in fact, after they come home, as they are also printed in the mailed convention proceedings. As the Grand officers increase in numbers this feature will resolve itself into boredom to the delegates, and unnecessary expense to the organization. I have often thought if the election of officers could be the first act of the convention, after the re- port of the Credentials Committee it would be conducive to a more orderly procedure of business in a more busi- nesslike way and decrease the time con- sumed in holding a convention. No doubt, delegates come to every conven- tion loaded with a nice package of ambi- tion, which is hard to eliminate, as It Is human, and a predominant feature in ev- ery convention of labor, and other or- ganizations for that matter, settling this important matter at the beginning in- stead of the fag end of the convention would certainly remove the tendency to “Wire Pulling” and other unfair occur- rences which look mysterious to a good many of the delegates. It would also re- duce many of the amendments and reso- lutions which amount to about as much as “Tweedle-Dee Tweedle-Dum” when they are adopted or rejected, since the enthusi- Digitized by VjOOQle

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736 The Railroad Telegrapher. asm of individual members to stay in the limelight is considerably diminished after the election of officers, and the in- evitable factionalism that is responsible for many roll calls would fade to almost a cipher. The coming convention must adopt some law, or amend present laws that will keep convention expenses with- in a reasonable amount, and it would be for members in selecting delegates, to serve notice on them that one hundred thousand dollar conventions are a little too steep for men and women who get theirs off a “pay car/* Mack. A SUGGESTION. The many articles of interest which are being published in The Telegrapher, written by the members, show we are not lax in our welfare and the welfare of our Order. In the May issue, a Broth- er endeavored to tell us and described the waste of time and funds of our or- ganization In holding its biennial conven- tions with no results for the benefit of our Order and the membership at large. May I take the liberty of offering a suggestion for a change in our Constitu- tion in regard to holding the Grand Di- vision sessions. Would it not be feasible for the Order to limit the number of its representatives to one delegate for a road or division. Some would say it would not give the membership enough rep- resentation. In order to accomplish this why not hold such as district or group meetings by States or several States, which would give the various railroad Divisions an opportunity to meet and elect a delegate at large. The roads that wish to be represented at these group meetings should nominate and elect a delegate in the regular way and allow mileage. These meetings should be held in the alternate year prior to the Grand Division sessions. The delegate at large who is elected should be guided by the instruction of the district he represents. I am sure that the above plan would eliminate cliques and delay In handling the affairs of our sessions and also eliminate much of the expense of mile- age and long-drawn-out conventions. Think this over and let me have your opinion as to some plan for lifting the unnecessary burden our membership is bearing. Yours for the welfare of the 0rder- Cebt. 435, Div. 76. SUBJECTS OF IMPORTANCE. After reading the Telegrapher for a period of ten years, during all of which time I have carried an up-to-date card, and more especially after reading the views of the many correspondents now contributing to the pages of our journal. I have decided to “Take my pen in hand." First, let me say that the articles from the various members are a decided im- provement over the “stories” that were passed out to us until recently. We are arriving at the stage where each class or subclass in the various divisions airs its woes, letter after letter from operator or agent-operator throwing briquettes or bouquettes at each other, or for each oth- er, each with a petty personal grievance to air. We know that at many stations it is difficult to arrive at a satisfactory di- vision of the work to be done, and there are so many local conditions at each of these points that an operator having a grievance, or imagining himself to have one, should not throw mud at the entire “tribe” of agents, or agent-operators, simply because he finds it hard to con- vince himself that the other employe at that particular station Is not doing his “bit.” I do not believe that there are more than a few men who have worked several years at the game who do not have a very good idea of the entire amount of work to be done at the station they work, and any average intelligent operator or agent or agent-operator will see that he does his full share, and doing this he will find that in very few cases he will be imposed upon by the other employee. Having worked as relief agent for five years or more, and having relieved in a good many stations, I have yet to find an agent who did not appreciate a good man as operator at his station ,and I know that wherever there was a good man ha Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 737 was not imposed upon ; being in the same line of work, each man should shoulder his full share of the responsibilities, and if he will do so he will find very little cause to write “mud-slinging” letters to The Telegrapher. Let’s get away from that. I’m sure more interesting correspondence can be found than that of Cert. No. 626 of Di- vision No. 4, in the April issue, in which letter the offended operator insinuates it is inferiority that drives a man into station work and leaves all the high-ten- sion, sound-judgment men in the higher telegraph jobs. Cert 626, I am sure, did drove him to take a fling at the station men. Leave that phase of the matter alone, each man has the right to choose between the telegraph road and the agents’ road, and it is no reflection upon either that each will be posted, and more efficient in some lines than the other; if it were not so, it would be a sorry reflection upon the ability of each indi- vidual. The brother also who wrote of an “OS” station job, has a slightly per- verted sense of justice; there are very very few “OS” station jobs, quite less than there are “OS” night jobs, but with the bulletin system in effect why will men kick about their own job, when they have the supreme privilege of holding an easier job if they so desire. We bid on the job we draw for some reason, and if we think the job we are leaving is bet* ter, why in the name of heaven do we change, and after drawing the desired po- sition why under the sun should we squabble among ourselves over the lot of another brother. Such questions as the much-discussed U. S. Mall and W. U. commissions are of much more interest than petty ^personal grievances with your fellow- worker. Let the Order really get down to brass tacks on the matter of U. S. Mail, and either get paid for handling it or know the reason why. I have followed the sub- ject for some years, and I have seen no good reason given why we have to handle the mail, and we should know for good and all why we have to be government mules for an hour or so each day when we are working for a private corporation. The matter of W. U. commissions makes me sick. Either have them give us a commission for the ivork, or tell them we do not work for them; we are hired by the railroads, v and they disclaim all responsibility for the W. U. Tel. Co. A. Steele Penne in the May issue touches the spot on the subject of the convention matter. Why is it that the delegates should have to travel to all four corners of the country to meet? Why would it not be possible for them to meet biennially in some centrally located city, such as Chicago or St. Louis, and with a very much reduced number of delegates do the necessary business in one-third the time now required? Is the convention looked upon as a “Jaunt” or a business mission? I'm for any plan that will cut the delegates about 75 per cent, and keep the convention to one or two centrally located points. If we get an increase from the Wage Board this time, let’s all get together and cut our expenses and make a clear saving of something, instead of adding to our ex- penditures by increasing the number of delegates and moving the convention to a more remote point. All in all, there are so many interest- ing subjects to write about that I hope in the future we shall read less of per- sonal animosities. Perth? ax, Division 4. THE NATURE OF WEALTH PRODUC- TION. With the question of the high cost of living ever before us, it becomes neces- sary to make some analysis to find out whether the so-called high cost can be accounted for in the desire of some cap- italist profiteer to get rich quick at the expense of the rest of the members of so- ciety, or if there Is some other funda- mental cause lying much deeper, and not explained by the capitalist economists. Just a glance at the so-called investiga- tions into the apparent high prices would leave any thinker to look somewhere else for the cause, when in the face of the government’s attempt at the lowering of the cost of living, they themselves ad- Digitized by Google

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738 The Railroad Telegrapher. m It, that an increase has really taken place. One of the things most apparent is the failure of capitalist economics to explain the natural workings of wealth production. While the institutions of learning, the schools, the press and the lecture platform are being subsidized by capitalist interests, for the deceiving and misinforming the masses of the peo- ple. These institutions are placed in a position where even if they know the truth, it would mean their undoing to tell it — still they must, of course, do something, and what do they do? They fill the mind of the ordinary person with the false idea, that the conditions which are becoming daily more unbearable to the masses of the people are due to some heartless profiteer, instead of pointing out the contradictions in the system of society in which we live. In order for the workers to under- stand these conditions it becomes neces- sary for them to take up some study of these questions for themselves. This article or, rather these questions and answers, have been carefully worked out as a means of acquainting those inter- ested with the facts. 'While it is impos- sible in such an article to cover the vast field, this may serve the purpose of awakening a deeper study of the sub- ject. As the wealth of those societies in which the capitalist mode of production prevails, presents itself as an immense accumulation of commodities, its unit being a single commodity, the first ques- tion is: What is a commodity? A commodity is anything produced by human labor power and offered for sale ‘or exchange. A suit of clothes made by a tailor for himself is not a commodity, while a suit made by the same tailor for sale or exchange is a commodity. Into what three divisions may we classify commodities as they appear un- der capitalism and the wages system of production? (a) Human labor power for sale or exchange on the labor market for wTages. (b) Money based on gold as a common measure of exchange value. (c) All other commodities produced by human labor to be placed on the market for sale or exchange. In what important feature does labor power as a commodity differ from all other commodities? Human labor power being the source of all value is the only commodity ca- pable of reproducing value greater than itself as a commodity. How is the value of a commodity de- termined? The value of a commodity is a so- cial relation determined by the average amount of labor time socially necessary under average normal conditions for the production or reproduction of labor pow- er, gold and other commodities. In order to gain an understanding of wealth production we must, first under- stand the different forms of value. For the present the three forms, use Value, exchange value and surplus value will be sufficient. What is use value? Use value is summed up in the ability of a thing regardless of whether it is a commodity or not. It can have a use value without having an exchange value when its utility is not due to labor, as air, virgin soil, etc. A thing can be the product of labor and useful only to the maker, but would not then be a com- modity. A commodity must have social use value; that is, be useful to others. What is exchange value? The exchange value of a commodity is a value form that is common in its relation to all other commodities; whether in the simple method of exchanging one commodity for another, or in the use of money as a medium of exchange. What vis surplus value? Surplus value is the difference between the wTages received by the worker and the value of the commodity produced by him. How Is surplus value produced? One of the chief fallacies of capitalist economics is the contention that profit is made by buying cheap and selling dear. This, howrever, has nothing to do with the production of profit. While it is true that the grocer, the butcher, and the Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 739 clothier, will and is in fact compelled to charge all the traffic will bear, still it is necessary to look to another quarter to find the origin of surplus value and profit. In the creation of surplus value the worker sells his labor power to the employer, receiving in return its value; namely, his reproduction as a worker. The worker having sold his labor to the employer for, say ten hours, by this sale the energy of the worker becomes the property of the employer, the same as the machines and the materials that enter into production. The employer sets this human machine to work; that is, applies his energies to the production of commo- dities. Careful estimates by the Federal Com- mission of Industrial Relations, the De- partment of Commerce and Labor, and other like investigations would give ap- proximately the following results: The American worker, working on an aver- age of ten hours per day, produced an average of $10 worth of commodities in the ten hours, and receiving on an average of $2 in wages for the ten hours' work. While these estimates were made some five years ago, reports today show no material improvement from the standpoint of the workers. Let us take an illustration: If the worker works, that ten hours and receives only $2 dollars worth of commodities in that ten hours, receives only $2 for that production, it Is plain that he has not received an equivalent in ex- change for the commodities he has pro- duced, and here lies the foundation of surplus value and profit. At the end of the first two hours the worker has pro- duced $2 worth of goods, the equivalent of which he receives for his day’s wage. But the worker does not stop now, the employer having bought his labor power for ten hours, the worker must continue to work on for eight hours longer, pro- ducing $8 worth of commodities, for which he, the worker, gets nothing in return. Eight dollars worth of surplus value — unpaid labor. From this surplus created at the point of production, and for which the worker has received nothing in return, profits are made. This sur- plus produced by the expenditure of the labor of the worker, and retained by the employer forms the basis of the class struggle of which unions are a mani- festation. What Is profit? It should not be misunderstood — the total amount of surplus value created by the worker, and retained by the employer is not all profit. Out of this must come overhead expense, such as wear and tear on machinery, interest and taxes, which leaves profit as something over and above for which there has been giv- en nothing In return. What part does machinery contribute to the increase of wealth production? This question is of vital importance and If not clearly understood might lead to many misunderstandings. While modern machinery has greatly accelerated production, it must he remembered that the machine is itself a commodity, sub- ject to the laws governing commodities; namely, that their values are determined by the labor power necessary for their reproduction* The machine regardless of its value, and no matter how modern, cannot transfer to the new commodity a value greater than they themselves con- tain. If a machine costing $100 wears out in 100 days, it will in this 100 days transfer its value $100, to the new com- modity, but can transfer no more. Let us repeat, labor power is the only com- modity capable of producing values greater than themselves as commodities. What is the commodity nature of la- bor power? Labor power was not always a com- modity. Under slavery, the slave being bought and sold, was himself a com modity, being offered on the market for sale or exchange. While under the wage system, not the worker, but his labor power to work is sold. By this change labor power becomes a commodity. As there is so much 'misunderstanding and so much contention on the question, as to whether labor power is or Is not a commodity, both the pr^i°'ls an(* the following questions ^Te vital i™ portance. Digitized by VjOOQle

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740 The Kailboad Telegrapher. How does labor and labor power dif- fer? By labor power or the capacity for labor, is to be understood the aggregate, of the mental and physical capabilities existing in a human being, which he exercises whenever he produces a use value of any description. While labor is the living individuality of the work- er, the application of labor power to the productive process is labor. Having progressed this far the next important question in xthe study of wealth pro- duction is, what are wages? If we were to ask the laborer, how much wages do you get? One might re- ply, I get $3 per day. Another might say, I get four and another five, ac- cording to the different trades at which they are employed, they would name different sums of money which they re- ceive from their employers for the per- forming of a certain amount of work. Thus it would seem their employer buys their labor for money. For money they sell their labor to him. But what they really sell to the employer for money is their labor power. This labor power the employer buys for a day, week or month, and, having bought it, he uses it by making the laborer work during a stip- ulated period of time. With the same money paid for labor power the employ- er might have bought flour, sugar or any other commodity. Labor power is therefore as much a commodity as flour, or sugar, only the former is measured by the clock, while the latter is meas- ured by the scales. Thus labor power as a commodity exchanges in the open mar- ket the same as other commodities. Wages represent the money price paid by the employer to the worker for his labor power, for so many days, weeks or months. What are the three forms of wages? (a) Wages are generally regarded as so much money; two dollars a day or sixty a month. A close examination shows two other aspects, before which the mere money wage dwindles into insignificance. These are the “relative wage’' and the “real wage." (b) The relative wage is what the worker receives in comparison with what he produces. Owing to the im- provement in the machinery of produc- tion, the relative wage has fallen great- ly during the last century, and it is continually becoming less. Under handi- craft production the worker could not produce very much more than he con- sumed. Under modern machine produc- tion the worker produces far more than he consumes, even if his standard of living has risen. (c) The real wage is what is bought with the money wage, the food, cloth- ing, housing, etc., of the worker. It Is what the workers actually receive in ex- change for their labor power. While the money wage the price of labor power may arise, the real wage may at the same time be falling. Thus, during the last decade, United States statistics show a rise In wages of some 20 per cent and a rise in the cost of living of some 30 per cent. Here the money wage would be raised 20 per cent, but the real wage would have fallen 10 per cent, so that in place of receiving 20 per cent more, the workers are actually receiving 10 per cent less in exchange for thdr labor power. (This statement was made before the war.) A rise in prices, there- fore, means to the worker, not so much a rise in his cost of living as a fall in the exchange value of his labor power; that is, a reduction of the standard of living. Cert. 435, DIv. 39. QUESTION? Would like for some bright, intelligent operator or agent to submit a reason, if one exists, for the low rate of pay op- erators and agents In comparison with engineers and conductors. I do not begrudge the wages received by engineers and conductors, or to say they are sufficient, but I would like to know why these gentlemen are paid more than we are? Their responsibility is certainly not so great as that of any train order operator, and very f©w of them have to deal with the public, as do all agents and most operators. StOl few Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 741 er have to handle cash, while all agents and most operators do, which invariably results in financial loss to these agents and operators. Can you enlighten me on this? Cert. 2782. HANDLING U. S. MAIL. the differences of their work, it struck me in the same manner as it seemingly has Cert. 1392, whose article, “Co-op- erate,M appeared in the April issue, and which I found much pleasure in reading and hope this Brother will find through these lines my* appreciation of his ar- ticle. Considering the fact that our dele- gates at the 1917 convention in Seattle passed a resolution to the effect that on January 1, 1918, all members of the Order would cease to handle U. S. mail, and the effective date having been de- ferred by reason of our country being at war on January 1 of that year, we should at once take steps to see that such resolution is carried out, as should have been done once the hostilities were ended. I do not know on whose authority the effective date was changed, whether it was indefinitely postponed, or some cer- tain date named, as I do not believe that the membership at large were notified of this important move, but if the resolu- tion still holds good, let us act on it and quit discussing the evils attendant upon this involuntary, unpaid service. If this resolution is outlawed, let us enact another legislation to take its place, and get somewhere, as I do not believe that we have made any progress worthy of mention, in this direction; we are all carrying two or three times the amount of mail we handled ten years ago, with no compensation for the work and a substantial decrease in our express commissions by reason of handling many of the shipments formerly sent by express, through the mails. Why not put the mattter of ceasing to handle U. S. mail (without pay) on a certain date, to a vote of the entire mem- bership, and, if the result of the ballot is to discontinue the present practice, let us abide by the wishes of the ma- jority and quit “scabbing” on the pack horse. Let's go. Cert. 672. CO-OPERATION. Having read the many articles of a goodly number of our members upon Through the last number of Journals there have appeared in each issue sev- eral articles, dealing with the differ- ences of work, hours, responsibility, pay, etc., coming from agents, telegraph agents, operator clerks, trick operators and relay operators, in all a mere, quarrel, as it were, as to whom of the above, did or did not do the most work and received the less consideration in pay therefrom. Inasmuch as It Is optional with each of us, on the respective railroad on which we work, to bid in the job or position we most prefer, and the fact that our great organization covers each and every one of us above named, working for each alike, and for the best Interests of all, It seems to me a very Inappropriate time to air differences through the best journal I have as yet laid eyes upon, not as a boast, but rather as a personal statement, based upon the good derived from its contents. During the present period of unrest throughout our great country, it should be the paramount duty of each and ev- ery one o£ us to stick together, or co- operate one with the other for the better- ment of working conditions, pay, etc., for all mankind, even though at times we do feel as though we were not advancing as rapidly as some of our co-workers who belong to and are protected by the one and same organization as we are. It was brought about at the congres- sional hearing upon the wage question a year ago, that the telegraphers were an intelligent class of workers, and It is to our interest and welfare to keep up that reputation among those men who were present at that hearing, Instead of letting a bit of discontent over the small mattter, as I have above stated, creep over our membership, and in time, give a chance for internal disruption, a chance Digitized by Google

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742 The .Railroad Telegrapher. to destroy our seemingly intelligent craft of men, and last, a chance to let a cer- tain body of men, supposedly intelligent, however not enough so, to be enabled to represent the American people rightful- ly, slip one over on us. This they did in one instance, but not without protest from us. Going a little further, I wish to call to your attention the article written in the April issue by Cert. 74, “Messages by Telephone/' in which he shows the lack of proper co-operation on the part of conductors to eliminate the handling of train orders by any of the train crews. In as much as the committee of the conductors order, the O. R. C., have asked their members to co-operate with us in every way upon this case, it would seem the only feasible thing would be to do, and it should be another duty of every telegrapher to so inform these men, in a friendly way, that we wish their help, and they ours, whence we will haye been able to abolish the handling of train orders, by those other than are covered by our schedule. Not only should we get the co-opera- tion of the conductors, but of every oth- er railroad organization, and further than that, the outside organizations, that we may at all times have the good will of all the working class of people, handling our differences between ourselves and em- ployers In a manner which will secure for us the public esteem and sympathy which are rightfully ours. When we will have learned to pass up the minor problems in our own organiza- tion, when we will have established the above-mentioned co-operation, then we will have established a route via which we will be enabled to travel its length and reach the goal of success of organ ized labor without a derailment. In ending these remarks kindly let me apply the closing statement of President Wilson’s speech to Congress on Decem- ber 2 last: “The instrument of all reform in Amer- ica is the straight road of justice to all classes and conditions of men. Men have but to follow this road to realize the full fruition of their objects and purposes. Let those beware who would take the shorter road of disorder and revolution. The right road is the road of justice and orderly process.” Cebt 169, Div. 96. A REPLY TO CERT. 1710. We had a real treat in the May Telegrapher. An individual signing “Cert. 1710” is the author of this treat Friend 1710 says: “It would be im- possible for labor to prosper unless cap ital prospered.” But did not the greatest of the economists prove beyond all pos- sibility of being refuted more than sixty years ago that the share of the capitalist (not capital) is the surplus value created by labor, and that one could not possibly profit except at the expense of the other; that a raise in wages means a reduction in profits, and a reduction In wages op erates to increase profits? Who cannot see this? Again Cert. 1710 says: “Capital could buy what there was and not work, while labor would starve If it could not work." Would economist 1710 please define the words “labor” and “capital?” How can labor work? How can capital buy? And what can it buy when labor has ceased to function? I Relieve 1710 calls the workers “labor” and the capitalists “cap ital.” If so, let us suppose that the la- borers should all die, -or better, be all jailed, how would capital function? Just as 1710 says: It could not produce alone But he also says labor cannot produce alone. Let us see about this. There was a time when we had no capitalists, but only landlords and serfs; the feudal sys- tem. The laborer produced, then as now. enough to keep himself and family in poverty and rags, and the lord in luxury. The same can be said of the slave. Al- ways, and yet, the worker produces, sin- gle-handed, while the property owner profits. “Labor today Is king and commands industry,” says 1710. That is certain, otherwise how could “labor have put through that grand piece of legislation, the Cummins-Esch Act? We also slipped over the Lever Act and the Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 743 Espionage Act, and we have the equitable remedy of injunction which serves to keep our labor leaders from becoming too stern with “capital,” or too loquacious. 1710 speaks of the killing of the gold- en-egg-laying goose. That must have been sad. But I wonder who gathered the eggs. But, say, J. D. with his $200,000 a day has it all over that goose. When it comes to preaching contentment he has nothing on some of our present-day geese. 1710 would fire all union members who are not "All wool and a yard wide.” Let's see, do goats wear wool? Righto, so do the lambs, at least before they are fleeced. Guess we are all right on that score. Now comes 1710 with the assertion that “both sides need protection, and that no real benefit cap come to us by tearing down capital, nor biting the hand that feeds you, for the chance to work feeds us all." I believe capital is being pretty well taken care of without our help. For in- stance, at Indianapolis on May 26th one Federal Judge, A. B. Anderson, held Section Nine of the Lever Law to be constitutional. This section forbids the calling of strikes. Section Four was held to be unconstitutional. It prohibits the charging of unjust or excessive rates or prices. Section 26 was also declared unconstitutional. It prohibits combina- tions formed to limit supplies in the necessities of life. On May 27th word comes from Pittsburgh that warrants were being served on five railroaders charged with “unlawfully conspiring to limit facilities for the transportation of necessities.” I concur with Cert. 1710 in admonish- ing all workers not to bite the hand that feeds them. It sure would be impolitic to bite your own hand, and I believe that on final analysis that will be found to be the hand that wields the spoon. But after all maybe it would be best for the worker to go back into slavery. He would get enough to eat and would not have to worry about old age, unemploy- ment,* doctor bills, rent, and a host of other troubles. It might be best to be more lenient with "capital” and break away from this “calamity howling.” Let us take a warning from the treatment accorded Socrates, Jesus, Liebknecht and the others who howled for a change from the good old ways. Cebt. 84, Div. 51. ANOTHER CALAMITY HOWLER. I have just finished reading the article in the May number of ’The Telegrapher by Cert. 1710, “One Dependent Upon the Others.” In spite of his claim to a certificate number, it would seem that “A Loyal Employe” has come to the fore again, under a new incognito. He roasts the Brothers who are attempting to offer a solution for Labor’s troubles by honest discussion, and terms this discussion “calamity howling.” I quote: “It is greatly interesting and somewhat amusing to read the words of the wise ones in The Telegrapher, for each one seems to know just what will positively cure the ills of Labor. And one would think that the poor, abused laborer was a weakling that had no friends. Every remedy proposed to build up and fatten this same poor weakling, “Labor,” is the slaying or, at least chain- ing of “Capital.” “It would be impos- sible for Labor to prosper unless Capital prospered. While it is true that too large a share of the profits of industry was taken by investors, it is also true that labor would have had very little and a great deal less if there had been no investor. Labor could not produce alone. Capital could not produce alone. Capital could buy what there was and not work, while I^abor wrould starve if it could not work.” “Labor is King today and com- mands industry.” WOW! There is more of this, including a state- ment that “All unions should compel every member to be ‘all wool and a yard wide' or fire him.” A little detail as to program would be appreciated! He closes this exhaustive treatise in economics with the statement: “There is no real place for the Calamity Howler, but always a place for the thinker.” Digitized by Google

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744 The Railroad Telegrapher. It seems to me that history affords the example that most of the great think- ers of all ages had little or no place, un- til they had been dead for years and posterity finally caught up with their thinking. Let us analyze this thinker’s thoughts and see how dependable they are in this instance! Let us begin with his last remark and retrace his argument! I would preface my contentions with the statement that I realize the impos- sibility of covering the entire field of economics, or even my limited knowledge of it, in a single article, and I invite Cert. 1710 to continue the argument where my thinking is at fault or not clear. Anent the “Calamity Howler”: Was the late world war a calamity? I would suggest that they who take measure of its causes and effects and preach, agitate or “howl,” If you prefer, in an attempt to repudiate the economic causes for all wars and kindred afflictions of humanity, are of more value than they who accept all such catastrophies as necessary evils or a visitation of Providence. If Cert. 1710 has any doubt about calamity that is world-wide, he surely does not look about him or read, even the kept press; and, if he will send to his Congressman and get the Industrial Re- lations Committee’s report and Senate Document 259, he will discover there is calamity In our midst, which is not the imaginings of “Radicals, Reds, Bolshe- viki,” etc.; that these latter are ef- fects, not causes. By the way, will Brother Boyd E. Weber, who wrote the article, “The American Legion and Union Labor,” in the same number, kindly enlighten me as to the exact meaning of the terms, “One hundred per cent Americanism,” “Bolshevik” and “Communists”? This is not sarcasm, I mean it. These are ex- ceedingly familiar terms, to be sure, but they seem to he so universally applicable by the kept press and to cover such a multitude of skins — I mean sins, that, while I am assured these must be some- thing terrible (that is, the latter two), yet no one so free with the use of these terms has ever gone to the trouble to define them, and I am in the dark, as it were. The above remark may seem very Ir- relevant to the subject in hand— and yet, may not these “Radicals” and the “Calamity Howlers” be very closely re- lated, after all? The foregoing para- graph is no intentional thrust at the American Legion or Brother Weber’s de- fense of It. All the controversy between the personnel of the Legion and thatot Organized Labor or the “Radicals,” for that matter, is due to lack of understand- ing of each others* ideas. Some of us, perhaps all of us, are not exactly right as to our premises. Cert. 1710 speaks of Capital and Labor as two personalities, meaning, of course, the investor of capital and the laborer, whose collaboration, he’ insists, is ab- solutely necessary to production, which is true, but only while society remains un- organized industrially. This is a common use of the term, Cap- ital; and, as industry is constituted to- day, It is an appropriate application. But, just here is the trouble: Cert 1710, with the average man, does not al- low his imagination to carry his con- templation beyond constituted schemes, plans and systems. Let us analyze capital: In its broadest sense, capital is labor power and its fruits. However, it has more perverted and fictitious meanings. Money, the coin of the realm, supposed- ly the unrestricted medium of exchange, stocks, hoods and securities, a careful study of which later three will he an eye-opener to any laborer. All of these are but artificial mediums of exchange and a form of credit — credit promising to pay out of Labor’s product, after La- bor shall have produced. A capitalist, however, is a human, and quite a thing apart from capital. The capitalist Is he who has deed and title, no matter how attained, to capital, and, in the sense generally used, in sufficient quantities to enable him to demand, rather than render service. Through capital's manipulation, the history of which manipulate is ^ Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 74.1 umes of tragedy all by itself, the manipu- lators are enabled to monopolize the world's basic industries, and to exploit everyone engaged in said industries. Capital, except in the form of labor, never created anything! Get that straight! At best, in any other form than labor power, it is merely the promise in the exchange of other of labor produced commodities of which it Is one, and has been legislated into that form of credit, and has absolutely no creative power. For example as to their real wealth value: If, by some catas trophy, all the stock, bond and security certificates should be destroyed tonight, the world would be no poorer in the morning, In those things that spell “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness"; it would simply be a question bf who owned these forms of real wealth. Let’s quote Cert. 1710 again: “Labor could not produce alone. Capital could not produce alone" (or at all, Brother). “Capital could buy what there was and not work, while, labor would starve if it could not work." Capital does not enable Labor to work, but, through a monopoly in the owner- ship of the natural resources, It denies Labor an opportunity to produce, except labor pay the toll demanded; and it is “Some Toll!" With the last quoted sentence, we “Calamity Howlers" have a right to be “somewhat amused," Cert. 1710. Of what use would have been Mr. Rockefeller’s money and securities to Robinson Crusoe and Friday? Yes, Cert. 1710, “The chance to work feeds us all"; but if I controlled your chance, and the chance of thousands of others, through a monopolized nat- ural resource, my chance for the good things of life would exceed yours a thousand times, and I could determine, given the sanction of constituted gov- ernment and military protection, wheth- er you and the rest would eat at all. Because the slave owner owned the slave and the slave had access to no industry but his master’s, and consti- tuted government upheld the program, of course, the master’s “hand was feed-, ing" the slave, though the world has finally awakened to the fact that the slaves’ horny hands fed the whole cor- rupt system. Yes, Cert. 1710, we need capital, in the form of labor, credits and exchange, free from monopoly and private privi- lege, exchange only in the commodities of man’s brain and brawn, engaged in some form of service to his fellow crea- tures. Yes, industry requires capital, but It does not make a particle of difference to productivity whose capital it is. It need not belong to any one man or any particular set of men; but the bulk of the product will always go to those who furnish the capital. There is the tip! Let us co-operate in furnishing the cap- ital! It requires capital to feed and clothe armies; and it seems that we have it in fabulous quantities for military armies, but none for armies of production. And, when someone suggests that Congress use its “sole power to coin money" and make it readily accessible to the people in credits, rather than through banks conducted purely and solely for the pri- vate profit and privilege of bank owners, and that the people use their bonding credit to organize and conduct industries for the common good, rather than to fur- ther enrich a few millionaires, he Im mediately becomes “red" and undesirable, and subject to abuse, most of which is heaped upon him by those who should be first to heed. Cert. 1710, if I owned a nice, rich ten- acre lot, and it was the only industry open to you and me, you surely would be dependent upon my capital for exist- ence, provided, of course, that I had a “big stick" to defend my title, sufficient “law and order" behind me to secure my ownership. Also, mine would be the “hand that’s feeding you," even though 1 worked you sixteen hours a day, and never turned a hand myself. Of course, I might have acquired this land by having been, present first, hard labor, or any route w\iatever (though how Digitized by VjOOQle

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746 The Railroad Telegrapher. # I could produce a natural resourse, land, or other gifts of God by any process, is still a mystery to me) so long as I had deed and title, all of which would not help your situation in' the least Then, under that supposition, if 1 brought my capital to present day stand- ards, after giving you merely enough, as a wage, of the product of your toil, to feed and clothe you, and demanded that you buy back (furnish a market) for all the surplus you could produce with the latest devised machinery, and forbid you the opportunity to produce further (glutted market), because you found it a mathe- matical impossibility to comply with the scheme, you'd sort o* cuss “the hand that's feeding you." On the other hand, if, through society, you and I had equal title in that acre- age, as we have in the public schools, post office et al., my exploiting you could not occur. You certainly would not work and turn over the product of your toil to me, or let jne name the conditions under the latter scheme. You might agree to do the cultivating, if I would get busy at something serviceable or productive and trade my products or service with you on an equitable basis. Neither would you let some fellow, much less dozens of them, sit on the fence and take two- thirds of your commodities for passing them to me, and accept the net of my commodities after they had gotten in on the exchange through like process. However, as soon as the same process, morally and so far as necessity is con- cerned, becomes a little more complex and edified by the terms business and finance, you fail to sense it. The farmers of North Dakota sensed the process, after being exploited for years, and after listening to men who had taken time and pains to analyze the process, and because they have estab- lished a State Bank, State Terminal Warehouses and numerous other facilities for the purpose of exchanging commo- dities with their w-orkers in other indus- tries, and are eliminating the exploiters to a marked degree already, North Da- kota has become the home of the Bol- sheviki, Free Lovers, Atheists, and gawd only knows what att, per the ravings of the kept press and the literary prosti tutes that leech upon the game. When we eliminate the profiteering game, and thereby make it possible for the masses of all nations to retain, con- sume and enjoy all the necessities and luxuries of their toil, we will not have “surplus products" in “glutted markets" to cause nations — or rather the gamesters who now control the bulk of labor prod- ucts within all nations, to go to war over commercial advantages and jeal- ousies. Nor will we know boycots and lock- outs, these are unknown now in any of the industries we now carry on for sen- ice only, even though special privilege, entrenched at our seats of government, has made these workers, for the pur- pose of exemplification, the poorest paid of all, nor “business depression." Did I hear you say this, would be nice if it could be accomplished? Well, have a look at Queensland and New Zealand ; or if they are too far away, keep your eye on developments in North Dakota and the Northwest for a while- Did you ever year of the Plum Plan— I mean outside of the comments in the subsidized press? Read “Labor!" Now, Cert. 1710, if you are still of the opinion that we who have & griev ance against capitalism (not the indi- vidual capitalist, please, tor he did not plan or make the scheme, and is no more to blame for Its existence than we are) do not think, bring on your rebuttal, and perhaps we can eventually convince you that, although the Civil War Is over, “involuntary servitude" is still with us, and that1 perhaps the “Calamity Howl- ers," you mentioned as having followed in the wake of that war, were not so far off, after all. That our own, dear, Im- mortalized Lincoln was one of them who predicted our predicament of today, be cause, at that time, our Nation's financing was turned over to private privilege. Let me assure you that this is ten in the most fraternal spirit; and, our opiniond and ideas may be f incompatible, ray personal feeling t Digitized by YsOOQle

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The Kailkoad Telegrapher. 747 you and mankind in general is the kind- liest. If you are a follower of the kept press, you will probably think of dynamite, red fire, etc., in reading this. Let me tell you, however, that my dynamite is en- tirely confined to speech and writing, and I have no desire to suppress, mob, Jail or deport anyone who happens to disagree with my ideas. I leave that at- titude for the sponsors “law and order,” who may term this article the work of a Bolshevik. Yes, it is amusing! Cert. 1036, Div. 64. CONTROL APPRENTICESHIP. It is a positive shame in this day of the telephone age for men affiliated with the Order of Railroad Telegraphers to turn out students as is being done and nothing whatever attempted to prevent it. I want to say with emphasis the local chairman who does not take action against such depredations and will not try to control apprenticeship on his re- spective division is a failure and not worthy of the position which he occu- pies. I consider this a matter of more grave importance than the six-day week and time and a half for Sunday. In order to maintain our present standard we must control the supply. It would be a great benefit to our organization if we had an agreement to hire two before making or promoting one. I am positively against a member taking in a student and in a mere month or two asking the chief to examine him for extra work. There Is a great deal of this kind of work going on on this line of road. Fifty per cent of the Morse wires have been cut out of their train order offices. Very often extra men are sent to a place where com- mercial telegraphing is required. When this is the case some brother along the line does the relaying. The local chair- man on this division has been doing some of this missionary work. This same local chairman has turned out a student in the past few months. Other stations have helpers who are allowed to do all train order work. Now We say we don’t like the telephone and yet we encourage its use by abusing the profession in al- lowing anybody to work and making the profession simple enough to be handled by mere boys. Our Order secured the enactment of the national 9-hour law in 1908 and Is still contending for other concessions in addition to increases which would have beeq impossible had it not been for the organization and men' supposed to have good sense making no effort to control apprenticeship knowing the railroads are trying to assign any class of employees to the work that be- longs to the operator. Men qualified by years of experience cannot come to cer- tain places on this road and get employ- ment. I know of a good Morse man from another road asked the chief for a job. There was nothing doing. At the same time he examined two students O. K.’d by O. R. T. members. Do these mem- bers get any tuition from these students? Yes, the local chairman deducted about $20 per month from his helper’s check. I want to hear from some other mem bers on the subject of controlling ap- prenticeship. Cf.rt. N82. Digitized by VjOOQle

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FRATERNAL NOTICE All Items for this department must be in the hands of the Grand Secretary i Treasurer on or before the 25th day of the month in order to insure their insertion in the following issue. New York, N. Y., Dlv. No. 44* Long Island R. R. — With deep regr.et we learned of the death of Bro. J. H. Snelling, second trick tower- man at Ozone Park, a faithful member for many years. We shall miss him in many ways. His remains were taken to Boston, his childhood home, for interment. His wife and son have the sympathy of the en- tire division. At our regular meeting Saturday, May 8th. we were more than gratified to have Fifth Vice-President Ross with us after a stren- uous week with various committees. He ad- dressed us at somk length, giving us the facts concerning the switchmen’s strike and explained the work of the Railroad Labor Board, the wage movement and other work with which he has been connected. He made a plea for orderly procedure and assured us we would not lack efficient leadership in any action that wisdom dictates. We hope we can have Bro. Ross with us again in the near future and can assure him a good audience if advised of his coming. Our division is in good shape with only a few delinquents, who will no dpubt soon pay up and retain their membership. Remember, brothers and sisters, the or- ganization will be what you make it. Every member is a stockholder and has a voice and vote. If you leave all the w?ork to a small committee without your instructions you have no ground for complaint if things are done that does not meet with your approval. We now have regular day meetings every fourth Sunday in the month. Side entrance, hall number two, second floor, same build- ing, where the evening meetings are held. Sister Katherine Comiskey bid in freight clerk, Hempstead, relieved by Bro. Walsh, the boy wonder. Bro. Kaufman, who gave up trie Floral Park agency owing to ill health, was relieved by Bro. Anderson. Sister Nellie Kelly is taking vocal lessons. We hope she will sing us a few lullabys when we have a stormy session. We would like to see our old friend Bro. .Shields from Southold at the meetings. We miss Frank since he went so far East. Please rush some news to me before the 18th of the month. I am trying hard to give you a monthly write-up and need your help to do so. Send me your views and opin- ions regarding meetings, organization ami anything pertaining to our craft. W. It. Anderson*. Pittsburgh, Pa., Div. No. 52. Pittsburgh dk Lake Erie R. R. — The rent of our meeting hall has been raised. How about raising the attendance” Bro. Dick is relieving Gaskill, Beaver Falls, and Towerman Sweeny Is relieving Streb, State Line, on sick list. Bro. Wingett has returned from France with his French bride to Wampum; Bro Weitz back at West Pittsburgh. Bro. Lunn, "DX” Pittsburgh, relieved ter days by Bro. Sautzer. Six three trick offices closed and position- cut down in others. Bro. Speidel to tbW “CH” McKees Rocks. Helper positions “CH McKees Rocks closed, Bro. Keadle to thiri "DX” Pittsburgh, Bro. Hawthorne to thin- at West Pittsburgh, Bro. Newton taking a vacation, Bro. Bilderback, *'MA” McKe^ Rocks, resigned. Bro. McBride, Haselton, discharged by General Yard Master Kelly for refusing to act as switchman at a point two miles from his office. Finefrock and Bro. H. O. Smith, same office, on road freight crew. Bros. Alexander and Fulkton have change tricks at Montour Junction. Bro. Lawrence third there, has resigned and gone to Detroit Bro. Belford on third ”PO” Beaver Falls: Bro. Beer on second ; Bro. Blasaey on seconc College. Bro. Flegal, member Grand Division, dioi in West Penn Hospital, Pittsburgh, recently of pneumonia. Bro. St. Clair had another mixup with hi* motorcycle and suffered severe bruise?. Brothers, be on the lookout. Persons from the different detective agencies in Pittsburgh are trying, by their cleverly written adver- tisements, to “gum shoe” in the different telegraph organizations, particularly In this division, where they seem very anxious t* land one. Bro. R. W. Rees deserves great credit for the way he disposed of the highwayman attacked him on his way to work at Colter on the night of May 16th. He relieved tbr "stick up” man of his gun and without * doubt sent him over the great divide things we are ^ure the editor would pencil. CWT. Digitized by Google

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The Eailroad Telegrapher. 749 Chicago, III., Diy. No. 91. V. & W. J. R. B.— - We have now arranged to hold a regular day meeting for members of Division No. 91 who work nights and cannot attend regular meetings. They will be held in the hall at 5252 S. Ashland avenue at 10 a. m. on the third Monday of each month. Our first meet- ing, May 17th, was poorly attended on ac- count of it being a rainy day. Brothers, don’t let a little bad weather keep you away and don’t forget the place and date. Let’s have a good turnout at all our future meetings. It is now Bro. Knippel, third 47th street, making it solid for the first time. Other new members are Bros. Reynolds, 40th street, and Warren, 15th street. Forty new members were initiated into Division No. 91 during the first four months of this year, seven from this road, and we will have several more new ones to report next month. Bro. Chaffee, first 65th street, Is on the sick list, Bro. Merchant, third 24th street, relieving. We still have a few “nons” left, but most of them can be ‘'converted” if we only use the right method. One of them threatens to write the railroad officials and have them stop us from continually asking him to join, but just keep right after him. Hit below the belt if necessary as he is not playing fair with us by refusing to come in and help to get more money and better conditions. Every one try and attend one or both our regular meetings if you can and any, of you who have moved send me your new number. We hope the new Wage Board will soon decide to give us a good increase, so we all can at least afford to wear a smile and maybe have one square meal a day. Cert. 57. Virginia, Minn., Div. No. 127. Duluth, Miasabe & Northern Ry, — Not a single note received this month. Pretty hard to give a write-up without your assistance, brothers. Owing to a shortage of cAal, business in general is 60 per cent lower than its maxi- mum for the year of 1919. There is also a shortage of men, the newly bulletined posi- tions being filled with men from foreign roads. Brothers, if these men are up-to- date also inform me of their division and certificate numbers so I can transfer them to this division. Members working here should help to support our division, and I have to depend on the brothers where they are employed to get this information. If any of the newcomers are “nona” get busy and help me to line them up at once. Bro. Campbell is sowing oats at Alborn. Bro. Brown’s chickens are running wild and he is having a hard time keping them from mixing with the prairie kind that abound in the swamp bordering Hull Junction. Bro. N. R. Miller is how agent at Iron Junction, Bro. T. C. Young bidding in BIwabik ; Bro. J. F. Kenney is relieving Bro. Thomas, agent Hibbing, who Is in a Minne- apolis sanatorium. We hope for his speedy recovery. Bro. F. R. Lowe, relief agent, took the newly created agency at Pengilly. Bro. F. W. Gray, Gurney, Wls., has resigned. Small attendance at Sunday meeting, May 9 th. General Chairman Woodward read some interesting circulars. Keep up the spirit, brothers, and attend these meetings when possible. We would like to see our up-to-the-minute brothers Hansen, from Kel- sey, and Agents Warner, Coleraine; Wescott, Bovey, and Mahoney, from Proctor, at our meetings now that the roads are in good condition. At the next one we should have good news as |o what action has been taken for our cause. Bro. S. N. and Sister E. M. Graves, we are glad to learn, have withdrawn their resig- nations. Bros. A. M. Maloney and J. F. Kenney have our sympathy owing to the recent de- cease of relatives. Brothers, send me a few notes, and re- member the old motto : “No card , no favors,” still rules supreme. L. J. Brousseau, S. & T., Cert. 62. Grand Trunk R. R., Div. 1. Hamilton Division — There was a splendid turnout at our meet- ing held in I. O. O. F. kail, Hamilton. March 11th. Bros. Case, Mitchell, Wilde and Heldman were the outside members present. We were also favored by the attendance of two of our old standbys, Bros. Shaw and P. A. Robertson. Bros. Case and Heldman claimed the right to sit in the bald-headed row. Whether it is on account of their being short-sighted or just a theatre habit, we are not sure. The H. C. L. and insufficiency of wages to meet the same came in for much discus- sion, but Bro. Shaw is an old hand -at the rudder and kept the flow of oratory in the right direction. Cert. 227. Winnipeg to Watrous — A very successful meeting was held at Melville, April 18th, with about 36 present. Much Interest is being taken and every meet- ing is attended by all who can get away. Bro. Peters is still on the sick list. Bro. Atkinson has gone to Lestock nights, relieved by Bro. Clark on Pembina second. Our general chairman is still away on committee business. Bro. Pounder, of Atwater, is in V office and Bro. Williams, from the C. P. R., on second Melville, will be relieving dispatcher. Main line operators’ remarks duly under- stood. Am not going to ask the brothers ‘ Digitized by Google

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750 The Railroad Telegrapher. r; to send news this month. However, pretty soon they are due for another jolt, especially the South Branch. Bro. Carson has a new touring* car. The runabout he ordered he figured when the news got around would never get a chance to stay in the garage. He can take a bunch out at a time now, although that won’t always suit either. Div. Cob. “Big Four'1 R. R„ Div. 3. C. U. D. Division— The chief reason advanced by the Amer- ican Federation of Labor for not supporting the formation of a separate labor party is that such would tend to divide the vote of the progressive element, with the result that the reactionary candidates would be the beneficiaries. After the Republican and Democratic con- ventions have declared their presidential timber for the oncoming campaign, then the fight of organized labor and farmers’ repre- sentatives will begin to take place to “De- feat Onr Enemies and Elect Our Friends ” It is highly important that every free think- ing American becomes familiar with rec- ords toward labor of the various candidates. It will no doubt be the aim of The Rail- road Telegrapher in the months preceding the election to place all Information obtain- able at the disposal of its members. This will include the vast news-getting sources of the entire legitimate labor union field. Candidates backed by non-union made soap and futile attempts at a reduction in the H. C. L. will take a back seat, in the opin- ion of most men. Last September, it is claimed by reliable authority, there was on hand in warehouses in America alone one hundred million pounds more wool than the annual consumption of this country. Yet the price of a suit of clothes has been almost prohibitive. Div, Cor. C., St. P., M. & O. Ry., Div. 4. Northern Division -r- The deadhead rate on this road is fifty (50) cents per hour for all time consumed going from one station to another, regard- less of length of time you are actually rid- ing on the train. We had a case recently on this division where a brother deadhead- ing from one station to another was obliged to lay over night at the junction point, the trip actually consuming 21 hours and 30 minutes* and claim w'as made for this time, amounting to $11.25, which was paid, as the brother had to bear the expense of a room at the junction point and several meals en- route, being unable to make better con- nections. Brothers, be sure to render dead- head slips for ALL the time it takes to make the trip. The schedule also provides that a telegrapher holding a position on bulletin required to work extra elsewhere shall be allowed $1.50 per day extra while mj from his home position. Brothers, d> not fall to render & bill covering this extn com- pensation. Delinquents M. G. Hoard, E. 8. Jfellinger. G. M. Smith and Miss Hilda Mcttkus will be dropped if their dues are not paid by June 30th, which we hope will not he nec- essary, as we want to keep np our splendid three years* record of a division without a “non” on it Brothers, help us get these four stray members in line. We are glad to welcome Bro. L. N. Judge back into the fold. He returned from the army some time ago and has now decided to stick with uA Superior "WQ" closed May 1st Bro Mori&rity taking the ticket Job there and Bro. Cowing going on extra list and reliev- ing Bro. Ruid, Rice Lake, several weeks Bro. Narback, second there, relieved several weeks by Prentice, a new man. Sister Mert&ugh, relieved at Bloomer by Sister Motzkus owing to the death of her mother at Eau Claire, has the sympathy of the brothers and sisters on the entire division in her great loss. Bro. Filby and family, Duluth, is os & trip to the coast with the Masonic Band, of which he is a member. This aggregation will visit Butte, Spokane. Portland and Seattle. Bro. White, who enlisted in the army to 1917, after being mustered out in August 1919, returned to second Itasca. He will be married the early part of this month to IBs Agness Pluff of Superior. Their courtship began before he entered the military servic? The writer, having worked with Bro. White for nearly five years In the same office and knowing of his splendid character and great devotion to his country and his work, feds that his life partner has made no mistake in her choice, and with his many other per- sonal friends on the division wish them all the happiness and prosperity to which they are both entitled. Bro. Casey, night agent Itasca, who serve, several months in this country and Francs was married on May 11th to Miss Ruth Johnson of Superior. They are taking ar extended honeymoon trip to New York, Al- bany, Boston and other eastern points and will be at home at Itasca after June 15th We all extend them our best wishes for • happy and prosperous married life. General Chairman Liddane and Local Chairman Mitchell attended a conference at Spooner on May 1st with Messrs Morton and Stockwell and cleared up slight misunder- stand ings in regard to some of the rules covered by our schedule. Bro. Tonoli. wbe relieved Bro. Mitchell, later relieved the agent at Draper for several weeks. Bro. R. P. Stockman, relieved on thin Trego by Bro. F. J. Hain, has taken sixti Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 751 days* leave and gone into the mercantile business at Lampson. We all wish him success. * Our chief dispatcher recently issued a very important bulletin, calling- attention to the great responsibility of handling train or- ders properly, which should be given most serious thought by every telegrapher on this division. Failure to do our duty in this re- spect endangers the lives of those who ride on the trains and places those dependent upon us for support in jeopardy from such criminal carelessness. The Railroad Wage Board is now han- dling our case at Chicago. We have every reason to believe we will be dealt with fairly, but we must be patient and await the outcome. No one sent me any news items for this write-up. "X,” Cert 330. Eastern Division — Bro. Ck F. Peterson relieved Bro. Tracy, Altoona first, and Bro. Helium relieved Bro. Judd, Stillwater Junction third, while they attended the safety first meeting at Eau Claire. Later Bro. Peterson relieved Finn, assistant car man and fifth telegrapher, Eau Claire, visiting friends at Superior, and Bro. Roy Biggar, Merrillan, while he and Bro. Ray Biggar, third there, attended the funeral of their uncle at Nashua, la, Bro. Ray being relieved by Bro. Kuhn, later taken sick and relieved by Bro. McCready, who later relieved Bro. Jay, agent Warren, a few days. Bro. Peterson went to second East St. Paul while Sister ^ Lockwood and Bro. Rich- ards were changing tricks, latter taking sec- ond, former going to third. Bro. Peterson then relieved Bro. Krogstad, third Northline, on sick list for several months. Bro. Kuhn, who relieved Bro. Striker, agent Fairchild, a few days while he attended a funeral at Blue Hills, Neb., later relieved Bro. Alex- ander, Menomonie City agency. Sister Schwartz, who relieved Bro. P. R. Anderson, Woodville, on sick list, and Bro. Vosberg, agent Weston, several days, was later relieved by Bro. Haberman, relieved on Menomonie Junction third by Bro. Hel- ium, relieved on third Baldwin by Sister Rumpf. Bro. Waldum relieved Bro. O. D. Nelson, third Levis, while taking the Shrine degrees. Bro. Cosgrove, who relieved W. A. Gra- menz, third Eau Claire, on third dispatch- ing permanent, relieved on Altoona second by Bro. Peterson, relieved on third North - Une by Judd, and he on third Stillwater by Slster Solum. Bro. Moats, Eau Claire River Bridge, re- lieved by Olmstead several weeks. Bro. McCready relieved Bro. Haberman at Weston agency when he took third Menomo- nie Junction, vice Bro. Helium relieving Sis- ter Rumpff at Baldwin, who went to Augusta as helper. Bro. A. G. Coffin, agent Chill, bid In tffiid Baldwin, Bra Richards his old job, third East St. Paul. Cert. 128. Western Division— Our write-up last month was like the fel- low trying to catch a train that had just left, “we missed it.” Bro. W. I. Story has resumed at Garden City after several weeks at Mankato Hos- pital, vice C. R. Williams, who relieved Bro. Severson at Blue Earth while he was at Shakopee agency a few days pending the arrival of Bro. J. F. Christie from Montrose. Bro! C. F. Blencoe has been appointed agent at Pipestone. Sisters Walvrood, Peterson and Molner “shopped” at Mankato between trains May 18th, and General Chairman Liddane trans- acted business with the G. S. T. there between trains May 12th. Bro. O. H. War7 ner, Lake Crystal, was also a recent Man- kato visitor. Bro. P. W. Mynard is off thirty days visiting relatives at Eagle Lake, Chicago and the Twin Cities. Bro. R. C. Moulster of Mountain Lake, visiting his parents at Eyota, was relieved by Sister Edgbert, and she by Miss Enns of Butterfield. Savage is now permanently bulletined, vice our old friend (?) H. Bromander. Mrs. B. J. Funk, wife of Bro. Funk of Mankato, will soon return from Minneapolis, where she underwent a serious operation some tkne ago. Bro. W. L. Cochrane of Madelia is being relieved by Bro. J. J. Hannon, Jr., . of St. James. “Notice of dues slips” have been mailed out. It’s a poor practice to lay them aside and calculate to attend to them tomorrow, so we trust you will remit promptly. It’s an old saying that " Procrastination is the thief of time.'9 Several good members who “put off till tomorrow ” paying their dues are now in arrears, and unless they pay up very soon will have to be dropped from the Order. The boys and girls on the C. & N. W. are now receiving their backpay checks, the same as we received Christmas time and the first of the year. Cert. No. 2. The revised list of non-members Was com- piled and mailed out by the general secre- tary and treasurer May 7th with not a sin- gle one on the Northern Division. The newly created Wage Commission will soon be holding its sessions in Chicago, and there Is every reason to believe that rail- road labor is going to meet with a deal of success. This, however, will depend largely upon Digitized by tjOOQle

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752 The Raii.koah Telegrapher. the various system divisions. There must be no breaking of ranks by delinquencies and suspensions, but a solid formation throughout. Solid divisions, however, can- not be maintained where jealousy and preju- dice exists, keeping them weakened. Let us work in harmony for a common cause, ever remembering that the greatest of institu- tions can be 'demolished from within just as readily as by forces from without. Bro. O. W. Shriverjthas resigned Magnet agency and gone to Wisconsin in hopes that out-door life will relieve his paralysis. Bro. P. M. Shearer is back on Emerson first after ten weeks’ sickness of himself and wife. '‘Pete” has had more than his share of ill luck this spring. The boys along the line did not forget him in his hour of trou- ble but took up a subscription for his benefit. Bro. H. E. Hineline, who has served faith- fully on first Oakland for a long period, bid in the agency there, succeeding Bro. H. C- Peterson, promoted to traveling agent. The names of "nons" and delinquents have been mailed out to each member. Should you fail to get the list, ask your local chair- man for it and then proceed to line these men up, keeping after them continually un- til they do so. Cert. 3Ub. Union Pacific R. R., Div. 6. Kansas Division — Bro. Orin H. Peterson, St. Paul, Neb., wishes to trade with someone on this divi- sion. If interested write him for particulars. Bro. C. F. Hinkle relieved Bro. Paul at Stockdale and Agent Moore at Winchester a few days, and Bro. Anderson relieved Bro. Bramlett at Miltonvale. Bro. K. O. Green, seniority May 9th, 1917, traded with Bro. W. M. Stuart, Western Division, who takes Bro. Green’s place on seniority list m Overtime and deadhead slips must be sent to the chief dispatcher for his O. K. prompt- ly at the time the work Is performed, other- wise this extra service cannot be included in the pay checks for the month in which the work is done. Strict adherence to this rule will eliminate the frequent complaints in regard to not being paid for such extra service. The 1920 seniority list Is out. Anyone de- siring a copy write me at Beverly. An employment bureau has been estab- lished in President Manion’s office, service free to all members. Anyone wishing to make a change can secure application blanks from the local chairmen. Many roads have asked our officials to furnish them with good competent men. Brothers, push for the election of men to office who are fair to labor and show the un- fair office holders seeking reelectioh, by our votes, "How the bull ate the cabbage.” Note how Gov. Allen is running around in the East advertising his pet court as a cure-all for labor’s unrest. The boys fell down on sending me notrs this time. Mail me all you can to Beverly. Cert. 333. Canadian Pacific Ry., Div. 7. Revelstoke Division — We now have an exclusive operator for local chairman. At our meeting on April 30th there wasn’t an agent present, the ex cuses being "the end of the month,” but a round dozen were there who smoked an«i listened and smoked some more, the radical element being conspicuous by Its absence There are no more "box cars” on the divi- sion and the whole system is just fairly bubbling over with "ops.” The local chairman enthused over "tht new schedule" but did not commit himself to any details thereof and all present en- thused accordingly. Bro. Wetherly, from Kelowna, assistant agent, fairly bristled with grievances, all of which had the courteous and considerate at- tention of our chairman. Bro. Jim Hyham was in town the night of. the meeting but on business of mon* momentous and personal import. Congrat- ulations, it’s a girl. Bro. W. J. Smith Is on his honeymoon and on his return Bro. Ste. Marie propose* a similar excursion, Vancouver to be the stage for the glad event. As a married min of some years experience I wish the adven- turous brothers much happiness. Heard over the dispatcher's phone at IK ( when the two-men jobs close for the day) : Voice (from two-man office) : Good night dispatcher. Dispatcher: Good night. Another Voice : Can I go to bed, too, dis- patcher? Dispatcher: The neglect of your grammar is shameful. You should have said. “BACK’’ to bed. The long winter has ended, spring is hen1 so what’s the odds, grammar or geography. H. G. Reddish, Cert 3782. Golden, B. C Lethbridge Division — Forty-eight members from every corner of the division met at Lethbridge recently a nd presented Bro. McKinnon, our retiring local chairman, with a purse as a small token for his services as local chairman for the past four years. It was a big surprise ta "Shorty” and the bashful manner In which he responded displayed his appreciation for the remembrance. We hope his successor Bro. Reagh, Lethbridge freight office, will make as good a record. Let’s all help him to do so. Bro. Woodbury bid in Nobleford agency on account of the reduction of staff in ti* Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Kail uo au Telegrapher. 753 dispatcher's office. A way job knocks the spots off the dispatcher’s chair for healthy exercise. Bro. Reid, second “Me,” and better half have returned from a trip to the coast. We are glad to hear Bro. Smith back at Coleman after a very severe attack of “flu.” The chicken farm at Burmis keeps Bro. Blanchard busy these days releasing the hens and answering the dispatcher’s bell. Bro. Harrison, “DO,’’ is taking out line- man’s papers soon. The wires in his vicin- ity require the services of a pole climber as regular as the educational bulletin. At the general meeting in Winnipeg last January the rates were increased from >6.50 to >7.50. Don’t overlook this fact when you remit your next dues. The assisting “scribes” on the various subdivisions are requested to be prompt and more regular with the news. Let me have it each month to arrange and get it to St. Louis on or before the 25th. C. J. Bundy, Cert. 1474. New York Central R. R.f Div. & Electric Division — At our first May meeting we again thor- oughly digested the new schedule and the consensus of opinion is that we have the best working agreement ever drawn up. Let us live up to it letter for letter and word for word, giving harmony pre-eminence in all matters. The refreshments scheduled for this meet- ing did not materialize on account of being unable to obtain the necessary hogshead. Bro. J. Phelan was elected to become af- filiated and James V. Cundari to be a mem- ber. Brothers, keep after the few more new men. pee that they join or show cause why not The usual summer pleasures are knocked into a “cocked hat’’ this Beason because “old long green” and UH. C. L” won’t work together fairly. How many of you broth- ers can afford a new straw “kelly.” Bro. Cummings did not give up a good relief trick, nor did Bro. Eagan give up a good location for nothing. Bro. Hagar claims he can stand consider- able overtime work. Bro. Simonson, who took a chance at “YD,” says he likes reducing weight by commuting in the early morning. Bro. Carkhuff, fast freight dispatcher now between New York and Chicago, has them running quite heavy. Necessity re- quires it Bro. Myers, Terminal Division, is to be an agent at Dobbs Ferry. We are glad to have “Walt” with us. Bros. Schults and Lewis have first tricks at last their long, long wish and heart’s desire. It is with deep sorrow and regret that we record the death* of Bro. Denny’s wife and the mother of Bro. W. E. Rogers’ wife. “Bell,” Cert. 2034. Mohawk Division — Bro. Charles T. Porter, first SS. AK. Clark Mills, is our new dispatcher. He is to be congratulated on his promotion as he has earned it by long and faithful service. Sister M. T. Klein, agent Wampsville county seat, is a very popular young lady. She commutes daily from there to Syracuse via the third rail electric. Bro. Harry Stevenson has taken first, Bro. R. B. Farley, second, and Bro. E. E. Bourne, third, at SS. CV., Lenox avenue. Bro. J. T. Ward, first NF. NY. Mills, was off several days on account of sickness in his family, and Bro. John Snyder, first SS. WX. Eastwood has been off three months with rheumatism, relieved by Bro. C. H. Scoville. R. B. Farley, Cert 770, 40 Belmont Ave., Oneida, N. Y. River Division — Brothers, our sick and floral offering fund is getting low and some action should be taken to replenish our local treasury. Those who cannot come to the meetings write me how they think this should be done. Keep after the desirable nons and delin- quents on the division until they are lined up. Our new proposition has been presented to the tribunal at Washington. In behalf of my brother Jack and myself, I desire to thank you all for yaur expres- sion shown us at the time of the death of bur father. V. Marcinkowski, L. C. River Division Notes — Bro. Van Valen, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Opperman, and Bro. Christian off on account of sickness in his family, relieved by Bro. Kellar, who later relieved Bro. Hal- lenbeck, relieved by Bro. Palmer. Bro. Hagerman was off a few days re- cently, relieved by Sister Garrison ; Bro. Deyo, by Hagerty, and Bro. Chiaradia, by O’Reilly. We all extend our heartfelt sympathy to Local Chairman Marcinkowski and his brother, J. J., owing to the recent death of their father. Drv. Cor. • Syracuse Division — We have meetings mornings and evenings at Rochester the first Friday of each month. That is the place to air any grievances we may have, yet as I travel up and down the road I hear dissatisfied brothers and sisters grumbling and knocking the Order in such a way as to make any average “non" think he would be considered crazy to Join such an organization. Digitized by L-ooQie

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754 The Railroad Telegrapher. If you think a brother or sister is not doing1 his or her duty as an officer or mem- ber of the O. R. T., get relieved for a day, attend and file your complaint, otherwise keep it to yourself. I have attended every meeting since I became a member and I have never heard one of these matters brought up. * There should be a penalty for not attend- ing meetings where, it is possible for a mem- ber to do so. Have a committee to examine the excuses given for non-attendance and if not perfectly good ones when presented by the committee, if the meeting concurs in its report, let the amount of the fine be named and assessed, and if not paid the member be dealt with the same as for any other vio- lation of our rules or regulations. We will never have a 100 per cent organization as long as we allow this grumbling and knock- ing to continue. Ckrt. 2526. Syracuse Division Notes — Our regular joint meetings in Rochester, March 7th, were the two best we have ever held. Vice-President Ross, General Chairman Morey, Vice-Chairman Farrel and Secretary and Treasurer Mansell, N. Y. C. General Chairman Leh and Local Chairman Coni in, L. V. R. R., and Local Chairman Delehant, P. R. R., and twenty-one members attended both the morning and evening meetings, with the addition at the latter of Local Chairman Blimm and Assistant Local Chair- man Tilton of the N. Y. C., and 32 mem- bers, including two sisters, from the P. R. R. We are very glad to have these sisters witlj us and invite them to attend next month. Other members who live near Rochester, and some in the city, eould certainly have been there when mapy took long rides to be present. One brother said he would not have missed the morning meeting for a day’s pay. and I know that he must have lost consid- erable sleep in order to attend. Bro. Ross gave us some very good talks and lots of good advice,- which we should all profit by. Bro. Leh gave us a very interesting talk on the doings of the L. V. and the Plumb Plan, and read a letter from Bro. Tom Pier- son, also named a number of western roads that want operators. Bro. Delehant told us of the struggle they had experienced on the P. R. R. to make it 100 per cent strong. Bro. Morey told us that our schedule was all signed up and that every brother and sister in good standing would soon get a copy. Any who fail to receive one should write their local chairman for it. Now get after the few nons left, especially the one working with or near you, and don’t give them any rest until they join. We are very sorry to hear that Bro. Pete Case's little boy had the misfortune to break his arm. Bro. Phil Kennedy, first. Pittsford, off on account of sickness. Sisters Tilton and Hes- senthaler doubling until the chief could se- cure relief. Bro. Fred Palmer, first SS 18, off on ac- count of death in the family, Bra Moody and Graton doubling. Bro. Chas. Brown, first trick crew dis- patcher at the plant, taken suddenly HL causing Bros. Cundiff and Clemmons to dou- ble. Bro. Chas. Reynolds, second SS 42, on sick list, relieved by Bro. Mike Flaherty, and he by Bro. Henry Soft on SS 44. Bro Jack Skinner is back on third Lyons Junc- tion after six weeks’ illness. Bro. Dewey, second Batavia ticket office, on sick list, causing a double there. Bro. Jack Remery, second trick Port Byron, off sick, relieved by Bra Ed Hen- nigan. Bro. Johnnie Parton, third Wheatville, off recently owing to death in the family. *Bro. Phil Levine relieved Leverman Stef- fenhagen, SS 25 A, while he relieved Sister Tilton at Wayneport. Bro. R. N. Carmer, back from Buffalo Division to second Clarence, vice Sister Ott to extra list again, relieving Bro. Koch, agent Wheatville, relieving agent Palymra. Fay, a new man, is on second Amboy. Bro. J. Gooney has moved from Rochester to Brighton. Sister Lucy Hoar, agent Port Gibson, re- lieved ten days by Sister Hessenthaler. Sister G. Burke relieved Pinckney at Memphis while he relieved Bra DeWaten at SS 8. Bro. Mill Messer gets his grub in Roches* ter now with the folks down on the fans. Bro. H. V. Dunphy, SS 30, selling motor- cycles, relieved by Bro. Ward Beaman. Bro. Ed Hancock is on second there until he gets his farming done. Bros. Trick and Lake. SS 35, changed tricks, latter moving to the new home he bought in Batavia. Bro. William F. Georke, P. <J. Box 563. Liberty, N. Y., writes that he Is there far his health. . He sends his regards to aD brothers and sisters a$d will be glad to re- ceive a note or a card from any of you. We hope to soon have him hack wlthf us and hear his ’’fiddle” in our orchestra again. One more reminder, get after any non you can, an& remember our motto. Hovbt and Taro* Philadelphia & Reading R. R., Div. 10. Harrisburg Division — General chairman just back off a long road trip, covering the entire week, hope tie day Is ndt fa/ distant when we can build up our treasury sufficiently to afford ua to put our general secretary and treasurer e« Digitized by Googk

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The Kailroad Telegrapher. 755 a regular salary to attend to incidental mall and leave the general chairman free to at- tend to the system and not have to face as he invariably does on his return a mass of mail which taxes him physically and mentally and also diverts his attention from more important matters. If the boys would, only get interested and get in the remain- ing nons they would help to bring along that pleasant condition. The New York and At- lantic City Divisions are sadly in need of this attention. Help all you can. On account of a change in the lease, meet- ings at Harrisburg have been changed to the second Friday of each month. At the last regular meeting it was voted to suspend regular meetings during July, August and September. Meetings during these months to be on special call from the local chairman. The agents' meetings, held, third Sunday of each month, have been granted on petition of over fifteen agents as being a time most favorable and convenient for them. They will vote at their meeting, third Sunday in June, whether they will suspend during these warm months. We are having a nice attendance all over the system and hope the members will keep it up and urge the slack- ers to come. Members on the Allentown end of the Reading and New York Divisions should attend the Joint meetings of the P. & R.-L. V.-C. R. R. held at Allentown, Hope they will be at the next meetings in July. They are held the third Friday of every second month and have been well at- tended by the L. V. and C. R. R. men. Three decisions have been rendered by Board No. 3 in our favor. The two cent per hour dispute means $14.72 to each employe who worked all his hours in October, Novem- ber and December, 1918. We would have had more decisions if some of the members had not butchered their own cases or four- pushed after starting them with the com- mittee. We should all study and KNOW the rules. Read carefully the submission made before the Labor Board by President Manion and preserve it for its wonderful educational value. We must do our duty as citizens in exer- cising our suffrage and voting this fall for statesmen and not politicians. Forget the party spirit and search out the* man. Cert. 183. Nev> York Division — At our last meeting we were ifonored with the presence of Vice-President Ross and Gen- eral Chairman Pry of Division 45, both of these brothers giving an interesting talk, and we hope to have them with us again. Bro. H. P. Bergey, Bethlehem, returned from a trip to Denver recently, was married and went to Washington on his honeymoon. Congratulations and best wishes to the newlyweds. Understand Bro. Neigut, Con- shohocken, is also contemplating embarking upon the questionable sea of perpetual hap- piness. We all extend our congratulations and hope that “the girl of your dreamy’ will live (as we see in thej movies) happy ever afterwards. Bros. Myers and Wolf went to Chicago tbr 10 days, had a wonderful time and came home broke, v Please send me a few notes so I can give you a write-up each month. Cert. 948., Delaware & Hudson Ry.f Div. 12. Pennsylvania Division — Due to the short time allowed in which to return the votes, only a small number cast ballots to or not to change the rule in our schedule which was thoroughly discussed at the meeting on April 12th. The railroad officials have openly ex- pressed their opinions before the Wage Board unanimously favoring an increase in wages for us and we hope it will grant one worth while. No one on the Nineveh branch seems to care to drop us a few lines once a month of the doings up that way. Understand Bro. Crane has become so stout that he has to have his clothes made to order and has no time to write notes for he is worried about the old saying, “Nobody loves a fat man," but if reports are true I know a little school teacher up there who does. Our old line is fast becoming popular since Lacka County has become known as the “Oasis in the Great Sahara Desert." This county is soon going to make the moonshine county of Kentucky look like a narrow gauge railroad. The agent at Yatesville is a “non” Re- member our motto : “No cardt no favors” in all dealings with the office. Bros. McDonnell, first Carbon Street Junc- tion, and Powell, first Minooka Junction, re- cently returned from a trip to 3aco, Pa. Their capers bid fair to outclass the famous “Hall Room Boys." Bro. Kuzmac, relieving on night side wire in “BC,” relieved on first Hudson by Bro. Law, who later relieved Bro. McDonnell, first Carbon Street Junction, while Duke was in “Noo Yawk." Bro. Craft, “M" office, on a week’s so- journ at Palm Beach, relieved by Sister Mil- dred Ketrick, now relieving Local Chairman Griggs, first Green Ridge, on a trip to Albany. Lucky thing this season is closed on Elk for there are two of them taking big chances every day and night, mostly nights. They gambol freely, usualyl with a herd of "deer." Careful, Mac, careful. Bro. Hopkins, Hudson levers first, extends a cordial invitation to any brother visiting in Hudson to drop in and see his up-to-date cabaret and dance land in Green’s Hall. Digitized by Google

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756 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Bice, who came here from the Chi- cago Northern a few months ago, has re- signed. Work on extra board too slow for him. • Bro. Joe Parry, third Olyphant Yard, re- lieving in the superintendent’s office, relieved by Sister Ketrick. Bro. J. D. Flannery is now braking on the Brie Jefferson Division. Let's secure our new cards early this dues period. No use putting off until to- morrow what can be done today. Our in- surance rate is the lowest in the country. To be protected in this department we must keep our fraternal dus as well as our M. B. D. assessments. We hope those who neglected to get their card the first half will be among the first to secure one the last half. Help Local Chairman GriggB by doing everything in your power to make your office solid. We may need a full 100 per cent membership if the Wage Board don’t do the right thing. Keep after every "non” in sight and show him no favors unless he joins. Cert. 1027. Atlantic Coast Line Ry., Div. 15. Columbia District — The absence of this district from the May Telegrapher was due to the fact that 1 was called to Washington on some appealed cases at the time the write-up should have been gotten up. The meeting at Florence, May 16th, was a grand success, with fifty present from the four connecting districts into Florence. Gen- eral Secretary and Treasurer Williams acted as chief telegrapher; W. C. Mason, Rocky Mount, first vice; W. H. Medlin, second; C. Bolick, past chief ; H. B. Bolick, Charleston, marshal, and Bros. Stanley and Bidden as inside and outside sentinels. One candidate was initiated. This was the first time some of the older brothers present ever saw this done. Bro. Elliott of Java was the goat rider and the ceremony was well carried out. We should all attend such meetings fre- quently and witness the pretty and impres- sive ceremony. If every man joining our organization was brought through via this route the first thing, I believe we would have a much stronger organization, for then every man would realize more fully what it meant. We will have a rousing joint meeting at Florence every sixty days. We can have one between times if we wish and every other time it will be held during the day time for the benefit of the third trick men and all others who can attend. At other times on Saturday night for "all day” and any other men who can attend. You are most cordially invited to attend all meetings. We may try a "Day Sunday" shortly. Bro. Williams gave us a very interesting talk on the present status of everything in general. We have every reason to believe that we will be dealt with fairly by the board now handling our Increase. T he ef- fect ive date for our supervisory agents wii! be same as ours, October 1st, 1911,' whkt means about six months back pay to then, ranging from thirty to fifty a month eaei. The joint local chairman will send cm | •notices when the next meeting will be held, possibly the third Saturday night or Sunday in JULY. Keep this in mind and try to h I with us. You will be well repaid to your time and trouble. Only one brother was present from & Wilmington District. If Charleston, Fayette- ville and Wilmington had come out as as we did we would have had a regular convention almost. Let's have more pres- ent next time. Keep after the few remaining non. Wt are up in the nineties now. Let's make it a hundred per cent We are short of men and could use atom eight Communicate with me it you kso? of any. Salaries for Lamar and Mayes ville clerk- operator positions were raised to fifty cefl£ effective from the date first opened. Sac? my return I have settled Wedgefield uu temporary first Mayesville, which pay flftr cents now, and I am now working on East over, the only old 4g cents clerk-operatr position left, except a temporary one » Lumber Bridge. Once we get away frci the "pest” we will not have any more Jok opened on that basis. I am still receiving complaints from ages?? that they cannot perform their work s eight hours. I have handled several ask cases and the company seems to be Willie to let the business go, therefore work yus eight hours, keep your cash straight and t*. the balance go. When the accounting partment begin to wire about account cc rent, and other important reports, tell them what the trouble is. I believe till will get the. desired results. Bro. Brigman Wisacky was off a few dir recently. Found his own relief. Bro. Carter, Lynchburg, has returned trez a trip to New York and other cities Timmons is off now. They were relieved & ex-employe Mr. Shealy. Bro. Dewees, Lamar, resigned, ex*Br- Glover, business man of Lamar, refifffc? temporarily. Bro. Blackwell, agent Bishopville, oft to® time on account of sickness, Bra Smith * ing the work all alone. No extra men to ► had. Bro. Davis Robbins, visiting home, by a C. & W. C. borrowed man. Bro. Hall, Bennettsville, visiting boms a few days, relieved by Bra White. Bro. Schumpert, cashier-operator Dar&f ton, has resigned, relieved by Bra from Seaboard. Bros. Bolick, Cr os well, Tlmma®^ J Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 757 Medling* Bennettsville, and others attended Charleston Shriners meeting, relieved by men “doubling up.” Bro. Carter Is back at Timmonsville after several months’ illness and a broken arm, latter caused by a “Dodge.” Bro. Hart, Darlington, in Charleston “walk- ing all over the hot sands,” says uHot sand is correct.” Bro. Bivenbark, Holly Hill, off some time, relieved by Bro. White, who also relieved Bro. Berry, Mayesville, while off on account of sickness. Bro. Monroe, Lumber Bridge, while off re- lieved by a citizen ex-operator. Bro. Bolick, while attending hearing be- fore board in Washington, relieved a few days by Bro. Boon. No new nons employed recently. One left during the month. With a little assistance from the membership we will have the big- gest and beat district on the System. I hope to cover my district thoroughly between now and November if the general chairman will O. K. my request, as I have not been over it in several years. C. Bolick, Cert. 31. Charleston District — The best meeting I have ever attended on the System was held in Florence Saturday night. May 15th. General Secretary and Treasurer Williams presided and delivered a very interesting address. Talks were also made by Local Chairmen Mason, Fayette- ville District! Chas. Bolick, Columbia Dis- trict ; H. E. Bolick, Charleston District ; Bro. Murray, one of our charter members, now of Creston, S. C., and various other members. Bro. J. F. Elliotte of Java, one of our oldest members, rejoined and our beautiful ceremony was used for his initiation into the Order. The meeting was fully enjoyed by every one present. We expect to have a meeting hereafter In Florence, also in Rocky Mount, every sixty days, alternating from day to night so as to give the day and night men both a chance. We shall also try and get the Savannah District to join us and call a meeting in Savannah for the same month as the one in Rocky Mount, so as to make it possible for some of the men on this dis- trict to get to a meeting every month and the rest of them at least every sixty days. Our local offcials are very kind and con- siderate and allow us to work for each other and stop the through trains for us to attend these meetings, so you will have absolutely no excuse for not attending either in Savan- nah or Florence and you are expected to sac- rifice a little sleep for one night at least every sixty days and attend these meetings. There will be the place to make your trou- bles known and advise with each other as to the best way out of them, and if you have none of your own come anyway and help ad- vise the brothers who are not so fortunate. These meetings will make better and more worthy telegraphers, agents, levermen, towermen, etc. out of all of us and will draw' us closer in the fraternalism of our Order and make better union men out of us. A number were prevented from attending our last meeting on account of sickness and other causes, but there were quite a number who could have been present had they possessed the proper feeling and spirit. If physically possible, attend all future meet- ings. New members are L. A. Grayson, G. A. Chinnis and J. F. Elliotte. Bros. Bedenbaugh, Coward and C. Bolick were in town recently with the shrine. When the operator-conductors and oper- ator-engineers are hanging around, if your phone Is needed to be used, you use it. H. E. Bolick, L. C. Charleston District Notes — Bro. Grimsley, agent, Scranton, S. C., has resigned, succeeded by Bro. Wall. Lake City is solid with the exception of Agent McElveen. Remember, “no card , no favors ” Bro. McCrea was off two days last week on a trip to Atlanta. Bro. Bedenbaugh or some of you on the C. & S., send me a few notes each month. Bro. Bolick spent an evening with the boys in Lake City recently, and took supper with Bro. McCrea. Cert. 499. Wilmington District — A very enjoyable and instructive Informal banquet and meeting was held in the Satur- day Evening Record hall, Wilmington, ar- ranged by a committee consisting of Bros. Malone, Plexico and Shearer of “D” office in that city. Local Chairman MIshoe of Conway called the meeting to order at 8 o'clock Imme- diately following the feast. Editor Cameron of the Saturday Evening Record, the well known labor man of Wil- mington, present through invitation, gave a very interesting talk as to how the present non-partisan political policy of the Ameri- can Federation of Labor could best be ac- complished and made it quite clear that the labor element was seeking nothing but Jus- tice for itself and the people at large. Following the banquet the gathering went into a formal O. R. T. meeting and we were addressed by General Secretary and Treas- urer Williams, who gave us an outline of the occurrences of the past few months in Wash- ington, relating in particular to the railway brotherhoods, and was very optimistic as to the outlook for some kind of early increase. He made some very interesting comparisons between our present contract with the Coast line and the first one negotiated in nineteen hundred and four, showing just how much Digitized by Google

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768 The Railroad Telegrapher. our organization has accomplished by united effort in the sixteen intervening years. It was decided that these meetings with banquets or some kindred attraction be held every sixty days, on the second Saturday evening of the month. Bro. Plexico, “D” Wilmington, was ap- pointed secretary and correspondent of the district. Local Chairman Mishoe also appointed a political committee consisting of* Bro. Ma- lone, Roseboro, as chairman, with Bros. Chapman, of Goldsboro; Shearer, “D” Wil- mington; Culbreth, Scotts Hill, and Ed- munds, of Mullins, and also consented to be a member himself. This committee, a new creation under the direction of the American Federation of Labor, is for the purpose of getting before the membership of all unions, political en- lightment and facts. A permanent committee of arrangements appointed for the future meetings in Wil- mington, consisting of Bros. Shearer, Plexico. and Dunlea, of “D” office. In addition to those already named there were present from line of road : C. Bullard, S. A. L., and A. G. Cox, Acme ; T. W. Prid ■ gen, Delco ; M. C. Harper and S. M. Ed- munds, Mullins ; J. L. Casteen, Rocky Point ; P. Lanier, Bowden ; C. S. Pruie, Mt. Olive ; C. C. Chapman, Goldsboro ; R. N. Crawford. Fremont, N. C. ; J. Bishop, Hilton ; C. B. Massey, Warsaw ; V. G. Thompson and W. J. Cooper, Navassa ; C. L. Willis, Currie and A. G. Strickland, Stedman. From "D" office, A. J. Lee, Jr., H. W. Hudson, R. J. Benton, B. J. Lane, D. J. Padrick, R. A. Dunlea, C. A. Brooke and Bro. Wilson, a new man from the S. A. L. Bro. Malone bid in Roseboro agency, vice Bro. Daniels, resigned to enter other busi- ness. We wish him much success. Bro. Futch, “D,” goes to “SF” Savannah. We regret losing “Bennie.” Bro. Benton is in Kentucky for the sum- mer months. Bro. Percy Thorpe on sick leave indefi- nitely. We hope for a speedy recovery. Plenty of overtime in “D” now as good men are scarce. I have not received any items from the line yet. Brothers, get busy and help keep the good work up. You will be reminded of the date for the next meeting and banquet by Bro. Mishoe in due time. Don’t do as some did last time by saying: *‘I Just forget to send in my acceptance.” There is no ex- cuse for forgetting anything so important. We should increase this thirty at the first meeting to fifty at the next one. If you can’t come yourself get the fellow next to you to attend. A. L. Plexico, Cert. 647, “O.” Fayetteville District — Bro. M. L. Perritt relieved Bro. Allsbrook. third Pee Dee, a few days. Bro. H. M. Perrett is on second “TO" Tower. Bailey relieved Bra Kennedy, third there, who has gone into the lumber business. We all wish him success. Third Sellers closed. Telephoner Cook working on second. Telephoner Patterson on third Rowland. Bro. Smith is on second there. Bro. J. P. Ray, who relieved Bro. Renfrow, first Pembroke, a few days on account of sickness, was relieved by Telephoner Melvin. Bro. Simson, Rocky Mount, is writing in- surance. Bro. “Ikey” Reinbold, third Elrod, who has a severe attack of baseball fever, will nb doubt recover as soon as the “hoss race" season opens up. There is a new wage scale pending In Washington. Let’s get in the few nous on the South End and make this a 100 per cent solid district. Don’t be radical with the none, hut be positive with them. E. H. Jones. Cert. 57$. Montgomery District , Second Division— It is now time for payment of semi-annual dues and M. B. D. assessments for the last period of the year. You have sixty days from June 30 to remit and remain in good standing, but do not delay beyond August 15th. If your remittance is not received be- fore August 31st you will be delinquent Re- mit your $8.00 dues to Bro. J. H. William Box 356 Richmond. Va., and your M. B. D. assessments to Bro. C. B. Rawlins, Missouri State Life Bldg., St. Louis, Mo., at the same time you remit your dues as you must be up-to-date in both departments for the period ending December 31st in order that this dis- trict can be represented at the convention next year. Division 15 lost one delegate to our last convention on account of members not remitting their M. B. D. assessments. The petitions I sent over the line for the benefit of Bro. Prior , netted $139.00, which I turned over to Mrs. . Prior, who wishes to express her thanks therefor. One member on this district subscribed, later withdrawing the subscription, and a number of men failed to contribute. It Is to be deplored that any- one enjoying good health, with a regular position, making the same salary as the rest of us, riding around in automobiles and hav- ing a good time generally would refuse to contribute even a small amount for so worthy a cause. Bro. Prior, a good mem- ber and a fine railroad man, had a series of misfortunes happen to himself and family and this contribution was a great help to his time of need. We had several contribu- tions from our local officials and transporta- tion departments, for which we are very thankful. Bro. Prior Is improving mentally Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. *739 and physically and there are good hopes for bis continued improvement. Local Chairman Stokes has returned from Savannah and Wilmington and we will prob- ably have a report of his trip, for next write-up. Bro. Bennet, Pansey, has gone with W. U.. and Bro. McEachern, Headland, was off a few days recently. T. Munn, Cert. 108. Michigan Central R. R., Div. 16. orthem Division — There were no Items sent in for last month, so we did not have a write-up. Bro. Wiltse, third Owosso, on sick list, re- lieved by Bro. June, third Laingsburg, closed up, no men available. Several other tricks closed owing to shortage of operators. Looks like no vacations this year. Sister Mallette, attending funeral of her sister, third Chesaning closed during her absence. Our sympathy is extended the sister. Bro. E. R. Frost, first Paines, resigned, succeeded by Bro. Fry, and he on second there by Bro. Bosebach, a new man. Bro. Bob Beedle, third Cheboygan, off a few days, couldn’t stand ’‘baching” any longer. Congratulations. Bro. Shorr, a new man, who relieved him, bid in second Lan- sing, vice Bro. Booth to Frederick first, vice Bro. Callahan, gone with the D. B. C. & W. Bro. E. B. Shaw, first Grayling, attending consistory work in Bay City, relieved a few days by Bro. Cummings. Bro. Kaiser, first Pinconning, resigned to go into business at Port Huron for himself, succeeded by Bro. W. A. Rhorer from the dis- patcher’s office, putting him close to his farm, where he can become a producer as well as a consumer. Bro. Cole relieving Bro. W. J. Stokes, sec- ond Bay City, on account of illness; Bro. Castonguay working 12 hours at Lin wood. Bro. Geo. Needham, in Detroit dispatch- er’s office two months, has returned to Bay City dispatcher’s office. Glad to have George back with us. Bro. William Shaw promoted to extra night chief dispatcher. Bro. C. O. Decker, St. Charles, relieved Bro. M. A. Diffenderfer, North Lansing, who bid in at ”SF” Jackson relay. Bro. Cummings is relieving Bro. Compton, agent Henderson, and Mac Laing relieved Bro. G. A. Van Dusen, Salzburg, a few days. Bro. W. J. Billow, second Zilwaukee, is sporting a new Buick. There was a fair crowd at the April Bay City meeting. The writer was not present. The Wage Board is holding hearings in Washington and Chicago. As the roads are short of men we may soon get a fair in- crease. We have all received our back pay and are ready for more. Bro. I. A. Nowak threw up second Wood- side Tower and went to second Salzburg. Louckes, a new man, on third there. Cert. 63. Middle Division — Sister Roush, Van Horn, was relieved by Sister Adkins, who also relieved Bro. Chap- man at Parma and then went to Lawton third a few days, where Bro. Healy was re- lieving pending bids. Bro. Wicks, Botsford, relieved a few days by Mrs. Virgo, who later relieved Bro. Mc- Murray, Kalamazoo. Bro. Firestone, A. L. Junction, off sick, re- lieved by Bro. C. W. Brown. Bro. Glass, Cassopolis, off sick, relieved by Bro. Renner, second Vandalia, relieved by R. E. Welbum, closing third Fabius. Bro. Bowlby, agent Fabius, relieved by Naugle. * Bro. Quigley, second Centreville, relieved by Bro. Shane, closing third there. Dispatcher Van Wagnen relieving Chief Dispatcher Whitcher, and Dispatcher Sayles relieving Night Chief Dispatcher Gardner. Bro. Eagle, ”SF” Jackson, and wife and Lineman Ousted and wife are planning a trip through the western states. Bro. Salter is back at “SF" again. Bro. Worth, assistant wire chief, breaking in as dispatcher, re- lieved at ”SF” by Bro. Scherer. Bro. Alden. "SF” Jackson, off sick, relieved by Bro. Hafer. Dispatcher Mead relieved a few days by Dispatcher Northup, relieved on Air Line by Extra Dispatcher Bietler. Bro. Fitzgib- bons, Pearl Street, Jackson, relieved a few days by Bro. Clissold, Block Station "A.” Bro. Hildebrand, second Block Station ”A,” is being relieved by Barry. Bro. Morse, East Yard, has resigned and gone back to the farm. Bro. Hoffman, who relieved Agent Whit- more, South Haven, resigned, was relieved by Bro. Holbrook from Galesburg. Bro. Jacobs, Concord, called away on ac- count of death, Graham, a new man going to third there. J. E. Hafer, Cert. 1380. Pennsylvania Railroad, Div. 17. West Jersey & Seashore Division — Brothers, pay your dues this coming term promptly and advise Local Chairman Pea- cock when you have remitted so he may keep checked up. This will save expense and much work for the general secretary and treasurer at Baltimore. (t Labor ” published at Washington, D. C„ by the sixteen brotherhoods, is very inter- esting reading. Send one dollar to Local Chairman Peacock and he will have you en- tered as a subscriber for one year and you will also get a card as a member of the Plumb Plan League. If you prefer you can send your dollar direct. The Telegraphers* Association has been disbanded. It helped a number of brothers in times past and would have done so in Digitized by Google

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760 The Railroad the future had the men on the division joined in & body. We should reorganize on the plan in vogue on the N. Y., N. H. & H. and Long Island. They pay in a certain amount each month and pay sick benefits. At the end of the year they divide the proceeds after ail expenses have been paid and start off new again and so on each year. Those who think favorable of this write Local Chairman Peacock for particulars in regard to this beneficial association. Bro. Locton Burk, back after a long and serious Illness, wishes to thank those who called on him while he was sick and con- tributed to the fund donated to him some time ago. Bro. Peacock was off May' 14th attending the funeral of his cousin at Leesburg, N. J. The relatives have our sympathy in their bereavement. It is now Bros. B. L. Scull and I. B. Pen- ton. Bro. Wolfe is back at Woodbury as lever- man, the local committee having adjusted matters satisfactorily to all concerned. Keep after the new men. If they are members report their certificate and division numbers to Bro. Peacock so he can have them trans- ferred to our division. If not members se- cure their application as soon as possible. Bro. W. L. Karrer, relieved at Kirkwood by Bro. Rubright, is relieving Heintz at Egg Harbor. The Quaker City Telegraphers’ Club is about to be launched at 1636 Arch street, Philadelphia, Pa. All O. R. T. members on roads running into that city are eligible for membership. Entertainments and business talks will be the feature. It will be a nice place to drop in while In the city. The ini- tiation fee will be fifty and the dues twenty- five cents a month. Members on this division can send In their money to Local Chairman Peacock if they wish to join and he will have the secretary send them their cards. Cert. 74. N. Y ., P. & N. Division — Bro. Gillis, with the B. C. & A. during the busy season, back on extra list, was off sev- eral days recently owing to sickness. Bro. Bell, a recent Norfolk visitor, was re- lieved by Bro. Churn, who is now selling in- surance to help combat the H. C. L. Call on him if you need anything in his line. Bro. Mason reports business increasing with their new offices as the Southern roads are working through now. Bros. Boone and Taylor reports the Cris- fleld branch solid O. R. T. with the exception of W. T. Brittingham at P. S. Block. Bro. Davis was a recent Chincoteague Island visitor, relieved by Extra Johnson. Bro. Scarborough Is being relieved by Tingling. Telegrapher. We are all waiting patiently to hear from the Wage Board. Cibt. 6275. Philadelphia Division — At last the dream of the boys on this divi- sion has come true : "A solid O. R. T.” This has been made possible by every member an organizer with the valuable assistance of Bro. Paul Wenrick, "The Flying Dutchman from Reading." The offices are *‘all" solid between ‘W and "OB," including the Low Grade and Columbia Branch, many on the Trenton Branch and the levermen at points where they are employed. Our old-timers are gradually dropping off William D. Timbler, age 63 years, for many years operator at "HD" Thorndale, died sud- denly May 6th, and was buried May 9th. He joined Just 30 days before and was very proud of his membership in his declining years. His family can be assured he had many friends who sympathize with them to their bereavement. General Superintendent's Office “UD”— The general superintendents and staff, in- cluding a large number of minor officials, have changed from Altoona to Harrisburg, causing many of our local officials to hunt new quarters in different sections of the city, some In the Old Cumberland Valley build- ing, and others to the New Freight Ware- house building. Some offices, including “UD" telegTaph office, have been enlarged owing to a larger force of operators being necessary' on account of the Increase in business. Bro. W. A. Bowman is the new assistant manager at "UD,” vice W. S. Hess, who too* a day trick on one of the wires. We are justly proud of our “Solid 0. R T” Bros. Wilt and R. A. Strickland, ex-serv- ice men, both signed up upon entering Bro. James Carroll, slowly improving after an operation some months ago, is enjoying a visit at Altoona, breathing the mountain air Bro. F. M. Frampton, from the N. T. C Lines, who worked through the yard and extra in “UD,” has left for other territory Bro. N. F. Miller, an all around commer- cial man from Bethlehem, Pa., is now with us. having an up-to-date card on arrival which is not usually the case with new- comers. After being closed for about 15 years- "VQ" Block Station, one mUe west of Rohrerstown, Columbia Branch, was re- opened. Bro. B. G. Kern, 3 to 11 at "QA” Mountville, landed first. "Sam Jones,” Cert 11S Philadelphia Terminal — The entertainment and dance of the (n«w> Quaker City O. R. T. Club. May Stb, at Grand Fraternity Bldg., Philadelphia, was a digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 761 very fine success financially and otherwise and those who so willingly and generously contributed to the undertaking have our thanks and appreciation. The prize share winners were: No. 4408, W. A. Wright, $20; 41, Miss Edith Bagg, $10; 409, A. B. White, $5 gold; 4164, V. C. Henry, lodge emblem ; 30, W. A. Devinney, and 1741. Mrs. Hugh Hutton, (value) 50 cigars, and 5054, R. Hornberger, silk um- brella. All dividends are paid and settle- ments made. Ow'ing to labor troubles about the time our tickets were printed, now temporarily ad- justed, we had to go to outsiders for support, which was very generously bestowed. Our write-up for the May issue arrived at St Louis too late for publication. The landlord has served notice on the writer to evacuate but mail will reach me just the same. Send in your notes. Cert. 2070. “PO" General Relay, Philadelphia, Pa. — We regret to announce the resignation of Bro. Cochran as chairman, Bro. J. M. Lucy being elected to fill the unexpired term. Bros. Butler and Keene were elected assistants to the chairman to represent us as a commit- tee. The committee, the first O. R. T. recog- nition for years in “PO” relay office, were received by the chief operator May 21st, and a petition for an adjustment in salaries, also claim for back pay adjustments under Sup- plement 13 were filed. Now we must all co- operate with our officials and make this office solid O. R. T. We had twenty-eight paid up members this term. Keep after the few nons. There is no excuse now for them to stay out. Wo are pleased to announce that Luke Heath and Buck Taylor are now with us. Bro. J. F. Wilson, now working in Wil- mington, N. C., writes that he is getting along fine and does not expect to return. Bro. Adam Stout is on his way with the Shriners to Portland, Oregon. Bro. Wainwright has moved to Philadel- phia. Cert. 718. Members Williamsport Division — We are nearing another term and are far in advance of what we were a few months ago. We have 196 paid up members and hope to reach the 200 mark ere this one closes. Keep after the few remaining nons and the few who failed to remit their dues last term. President Manion has presented our case asking for an 81 cent minimum wage and with a membership of over 64,000 we hope it will be granted. Remit your dues promptly on July 1st and make a new record. Kindly, drop me a postal card advising when you do so to enable me to clear my records. I trust each of you will do your utmost to assist me. Any grievancee of a just nature when properly presented will receive prompt attention by the Local Board of Adjustment A. C. Grieb, Local Chairman. Williamsport Division Notes — The American working men are again se- lecting “labor" ^candidates, adept artists in toiling — rhetorically, therefore the blows that will be dealt H. C. L. will have about the same effect as those the “coon” gets at the carnival. The harder you hit the better he likes it. A group of representatives will soon gather again in our various legislative halls, orally sympathetic but mentally antagonistic toward labor. Working men and women must cut loose from political parties whose dictates they are required to follow regardless of the eco- nomic views of its political aspirants. We must UNITE politically as well as in- dustrially. Unless we do We utilize our en- ergy as efficiently as an able-bodied man who insists on keeping one arm strapped to bis body. Let us endeavor to more nearly perfect our O. R. T. organization and agitate for a better political understanding. Cert. 152. Williamsport Division Notes, No. Two — Telegraphers are among the lowest paid workers in the transportation department. If you want to remain such, or if you love some petty official more than you do your- self or family, a mistake has been made in passing you this hint, pass it on to some other good man or woman. The O. R. T. is out to get us a living wage, decent hours, seniority rights and a right to speak and be heard In our own defense when unjustly dealt with. We should see that those in accord with these aims becqpie members of our organization at once. Indecision has been fatal to us in the past, delays now are dangerous. For years com- pany officials have been forming organiza- tions to keep us out of a bonaflde recognized labor organization in order to beat us when- ever they wished. Our organization, trying to get us an in- crease, is backed up by the other railroad brotherhoods, and four million organized workers in the American Federation of Labor. Brothers and sisters, help us to get the few nons in line. These are the days that will tell whether we ring true and finally decide our real value. Those who refuse to join now are of no use to the brotherhood of man but a detriment to those who work with them. The demands now being made are designed to end a system of industry in which the necessities of life are made the footballs of the profiteers, who, through their press Digitized by Google

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762 The Rah. road Telegrapher. agents and "parrot taught” writers, blame organized labor for the prevailing unrest. The years of labor’s education and prep* aration are about to bear fruit. Labor knows what it desires and how to secure ft. The peace and prosperity of the whole world can onfy be had through the united demand* of labor. Bro. J. I. Klingenberger’s auto upset on his way home from Dewart with a crate of eggs and not an egg broke — tough eggs? Bro. S. H. Nale is a frequent Williams- port visitor. Bro. J. B. Spriner must look elsewhere for his cantaloupes this year than on the Fogle- man’s farm. Bro. John Vetter, "DE,” an expert gar- dener, has nice plants for sale. Bros. Wertman and Eisley returned from a recent 20-mile trout Ashing trip; usual luck. Bro. Peck is the champion trout fish- erman of Clinton County. Bro. John Gertner is spending his spare time fishing. Bro. Rbawn was recently married. Con- gratulations. Bro. Troutman’s hens must be laying fine. He Is often seen on the train with a large basket full. Bro. Bailets has gone into hog raising. Bros. Bourne and Weaver are both expert farmers. Bro. M. J. Snyder recently moved his new and attractive electrical store to the Jonas building. Bros. Liester, Shoffstall and Yeager, among the leading grocery men of Sunbury, are all doing a progressive business. Bro. Liester has all the farmers spotted for produce. Bro. Derrick, our regular correspondent, is putting the finishing touches on the fine new home he recently purchased. Bro. W. S. Minnler will be glad to take your subscription to Labor , published weekly at Washington, D. C., in the interests of the workers, at $1.00 a year. Bro. Bitner is more popular with the fair sex than ever since he purchased a new auto. W. D. Mantz and L. G. Malick are Btlll on the delinquent list Boys, ask them how they got their increase and Bee If you can’t get them to line up again. Bro. Gilbert, night manager "GO,” has a good solid O. R. T. force on third trick. If a few on second could be lined up "GO” would be a solid office. Brothers and sisters, when you get your dues notices pay up promptly. Don’t wait until the local chairman and his assistants have to check you up. Your dues are of more Importance than pleasure as they protect that which you rely upon to make a liveli- hood. Cert. 902. Tyrone Division — The members who attended the meeting held in K. of C. rooms, Tyrone, Pa., April 21st, received information beneficial to all. Let our next meeting, by the help of every member who can possibly attend, be still more interesting. Our local chairman, we are proud to know, was one of the select few called to Baltimore to audit accounts; a full report of which he gave at last meeting, also a very interesting account of how they do business which is a credit to us all. We wish to thank the offi- cers and members of K. of C. for the use of their rooms. It was decided to appoint a scribe for the C. & C. Mountain Side of the division to look after the write-up over there. If the boys on the Valley Side will send in their notes we will be able to keep up our end. We have 88 bald up members In good standing. A committee, too. Cxrt. 2151. Monongahela Division — Another job on the Red Stone opened. Bro. McCoy on first, Bro. Rhydderch on second, Marie Soukup on third and new man on "WB” second. The new positions have not been assigned owing to the dispute over seniority rights. After taking over the "SW” Miss V. J. Hytracek is on second "FI” ; P. J. Hagerty on first, and G. E. Lowe, second "GN,” and C. R. Mansell on "BF” third, vice Bro. Ruecroft, after several months there, returned to his own job. ^Sister Alexander on "BF” second. It appears hard to get anyone to post up for "WB” or "BF.” Non Bryson has . resigned and no tears shed when he left. Manager Boyle still on sick list, Murphy relieving. Bro. P. J. Trettle Is posting up for dis- patcher, and Bro. H. Shadd of the Pittsburgh Division is working in "PA” Msge. Room. We all regret Local Chairman Roberts leaving and hope the new man wifi be as good as he was. We hope to line up about eight new mem- bers this next term. Since Youngwood crews started running over the Monongahela, via Red Stone Junc- tion, it makes quite a bit more work for ut. Members of this division, I earnestly re- quest every one of you to try and line up the nons near or next to you. Let us all keep busy until we are 100 per cent strong. "Red,” Cert 6729. Pittsburgh Terminal Division and Pittsburgh District — Two interesting meetings were held on Friday, May 21, in the Monongahela House, Pittsburgh, morning and evening. Bro. Rob- erts presided at the former and Bro. Dinges at the latter. Inclement weather prevented Digitized by ^.ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 763 a large turnout. Bro. Cone, “GO" message office, Bro. Green and a number of others from “GO" relay attended the evening ses- sion. We hope the brothers and sisters will come to every meeting. That's the place to tell what’s on your mind, not to the operator working with you. General Chairman Miller and Secretary and Treasurer Skinner stopped on their way East from St. Louis and gave us interesting talks. The former advised us that the pro- posed^ wage increase might soon be expected. Our chairman has been elected, give him your best efforts. Regarding the new Termi- nal Division seniority it was almost unani- mously agreed that it would be a closed area carrying seniority from former divisions. New members: Bros. Staab and Kinney, Ed Jackson, “UF" Tower, and Sister Smart of Sewickley. Bro. Dorsey has taken up a grievance for the yardmen, asking that differentials be equalized and all tricks pay the Bame rate per hour. The general manager of the Cen- tral Region will reach a decision in this mat- ter shortly. The rate for June is $7.50 ; July to Decem- ber, $12.50. Help me line up every operator from Rochester to Pitcairn. Phone Hiland 2629J or write me for application blanks. If you want a write-up each month send me your notes. Remit your dues, $6.00, promptly to Bro. Skinner, 71 Gunther Bldg., Baltimore, Md„ and insurance assessments to Bro. Rawlins, Missouri State Life Building, seventh floor, St. Louis, Mo. John R. Dinqbs, Jr., Cert. 370, 7061 Bennett Street, Homewood Station. “GO" Relay, Pittsburgh, Pa. — Our members were pleased to learn of the award from Board No. 3, granting pay for last summer's vacations, and the nons inter- ested are inquiring daily when it will be paid. Bro. Stettler, member of the Local Board of Adjustment, who resigned, effective May 16th, will make his home at Steubenville for the present. Local Chairman Cone ap- pointed Bro. Roy Bailey to All the vacancy on the Board. Sister Sarah Brown was also appointed to serve on the committee, looking after affairs in the printer room. One of our nons who is much concerned about his taxes believes that the vacation award was an act of Providence instead of the result of the O. R. T. organization work. We believe that our organization is a most efficient aid to Providence, however, and that we must “ask” before we can expect to “receive/9 The Local Board of Adjustment has sev- eral cases in hand with our chief operator, some of which will probably have to be set- tled by the higher officials. The "OD" bunch that moved into “GO" last March is proving a knotty problem to solve, as it enters vitally into the whole seniority question affecting the service on our lines. At the meeting in the Monongahela House, Pittsburgh, Friday evening. May 21st, this seniority question overshadowed all others. Bros. J. F. Miller and W. M. Skinner pre- sided. We should feel proud to have as our representatives such able leaders. Several of the older men are on the verge of resigning. We believe that better work- ing conditions, fair play for all, and strict adherence to the schedule by those under whom we work, would go a great way toward promoting contentment. Special privileges granted in one department and denied in another is bound to create dissatis- faction and irritate those concerned, and we see no just reason why this fact should not be recognized, even though it should be only a matter of privilege. Our Board now is in flne working condi- tion and prepared to go up against anything that may present itself. Bro. Cone is prov- ing to be a wise and conservative leader. Cert. 7611. LouisviRe Division — Bro. Conrad, third Franklin, bid in second there, vice Bro. Weare, resigned ; Bro. Smith, second "AD" Tower, bid in second State street. New Albany, Bro. Wilkerson resign- ing; Bro. McCurdy took second "X" Tower, Bro. “Jim" Castetter resigned and started farming ; Bro. Cravens, operator-agent Du- pont, also resigned and is farming ; Bro. Davis, third "WD" Tower, succeeded by Bro. Hinshaw, extra. Bro. Bossmeler, second Columbia, relieved a few days by Bro. Smart. Bro. Conrad, second Franklin, was relieved by Bro. McClain while visiting friends out West, among them former Bro. H. D., Hig- gins at Tulsa, Okla., now traveling freight agent for the Missouri Pacific. Boys, this division is almost 100 per cent solid O. R. T., something to be proud of and to work for. If we gain anything it will be through' the efforts of the O. R. T. and we must help by paying our dues promptly and always hold an up-to-date. Should any of you wish to know how you stand on the se- niority list, ask me. Received no itemB from anyone for three months. Brothers, send me a few so we can have a write-up every month. H. M. Davis, Cert 2797. Louisville Terminal — Bro. Vest, clerk in trainmaster's office temporarily, Bro. Behrens to second opera- tor-leverman, and Bro. Fred Smith, second tableman "DS." Digitized by Google

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764 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. M. L. Smith bid in second “RN” ; Bro. Heyn, second “AD," and Bro. Handerzahs, second “BO." Bro. W. E. Davis, third dispatcher “C" two weeks during dispatcher’s illness. Bro. Stader, third “NA." W. M. Eggleston, division operator Until three or four years ago, died recently of heart failure. His demise is regretted by all of us as he was always loyal to the men under him. Bro. Wiseman, third leverman “C" Derby Night as Bro. Weber, along with many other brothers, attended the races and were game losers. Bro. A. P. Smith, second and third dis- patcher ‘C” during dispatcher's vacations ; Bro. White, first, and Bro. Whitehouse, sec- ond “NA." W. E. Davis, Cert. 3623, Asst Div. Cor. E. A. Division — Bro. Joe Johnsons wife, operated on re- cently at Youngstown hospital, is getting along nicely. He was relieved one day by Sister Bertha Wilson, who later relieved Effle Wilson at Haselton several days on ac- count of sickness. Bros. Allen, second “SI” Tower, and Cla- vin second, Brier Hill, were off recently. Bro. DeLand, third West street is reliev- ing Local Chairman Sheldon on first there. The new office at Rockford opened May 23rd with Bros. L. E. Yoho on first J* E. Lewis, second, and J. A. Kail, third. Bro. R. A. Waeon, third Brier Hill, bid in first Bristolville. He and his bride, Sister Marion Spear, are now living in the country. The latter has resigned third Quakertown. They have our best wishes for happiness and prosperity. Bro. Bishop bid in first Mahoningtown, Bro. Heinrich, third Grant street, and Sister Anna Rush, second Edenburg. We now have 166 members in good stand- ing. Keep after the few nons. Let us make this division 100 per cent. Cert. 3602. Zanesville, Division — Washington third opened a few nights by P. W. James, who relieved Local Chairman Yahn at Putnam a few days. Bro. G. U. Nangle, third Junction City, relieved two nights by Bro. D. R. Harbaugh, who with Extra Gatewood recently resigned, leaving us only three extra men. Bro. L. E. Moore has a new “Nash." Members who when something happens just not to their liking threaten to drop’ out should remember that they injure themselves far more than the Order. A delinquent is sometimes more of a detriment to us than a non. If a man loves his family and those depending on him for support he will do all in his power to protect them. If he fails to do this you will know what class to place him In. What we need most is men with reason who will stick all the time. It is now time to renew our cards for the last half of this year. I will get a list for publication of all who fail to renew. Brothers, if there is a non in your office line him up if possible and let me know if you need assistance to do so. W. B. Rucker, Cert 3926. Columbus Division — I suggest that we stage a little surprise for the members of our committee still at Washington in our behalf, showing our ap- preciation for their hard wfork by getting our new cards not later than July 1st Also see if we cannot induce some non to come in and pay his share for what he is receiving now and the benefits still to come. Remem- ber that your M. B. D. assessments must also be paid to remain in good standing and protect your beneficiaries. Keep after the extra men as well as the agents. They are all in debt to our organization for their bene- fits. Let us show them these facts. Union Depot, Columbus, is now solid, and Yeazell at Milford is now a member. Hom- sher, Stuard, McMurdy, Miller and Glenn are still in the non class. You know the remedy and how to use it. Always have an up-to- date yourself. It’s the only organizing cer- tificate you need to show your authority for taking their applications. Get your new cards — Pay your M. B. D. P. L. Martin, L. C. Richmond Division — It is now dues paying season. Let's save our grand and general secretary and treas- urer a lot of extra work by remitting promptly $6.00 to Bro. W. M. Skinner, 71 Gunther Bldg., Baltimore, Md., and the amount indicated on the M. B. D. assessment slip to Bro. C. B. Rawlins, 15th and Locust streets, St. Louis, Mo. “Do it novo.n Don’t fail to send me copies of your bids on vacancies, to enable me to keep a close watch on all assignments, together with records complete on all bulletins. In order that Bro. H. H. Pickering, Wind- fall, may have a write-up in each month please send him your items by the 16th so that, he cap shape them up and mall them in time for the Issue intended. Our second anniversai'y day is June 26th. Just two years ago the first O. R. T. gen- eral committee was convened on the P. L. W\ Are we making good? O. W. Tatlor, L. C Indianapolis Division — There are yet a few delinquents and nons on the division which it is your personal busi- ness to help line up at once. It Is time to pay our dues again for another six months period if we have not paid up for the en* Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 765 tire year, and I hope there will not be a sister or brother who will fail to do so promptly. Inquire of me who the delinquents and nons are if you don’t know already, and each of us keep after them until they are all up-to-date. A little more individual work will eliminate them. Don’t think that your job is completed when you get an up- to-date card. That is only the proper be- ginning. Our present schedule expires Sept. 1st and on the same date those who are not paid up for the last half of 1920 will be delin- quents, both in the O. R. T. and in the in- surance department. Cert. No. 1216, in the April Telegrapher, hit the spot exactly when he said : “Anyone who has the temerity to stay out of the Order now is amenable to the strict rule “No card, no favors?* and un- worthy of the esteem or any consideration of all good members.” We have some of this kind among us. Jump in, brothers and sisters, let’s get & 100 per cent membership and keep It so. Our committee will be helpless without the mem- bership behind it. Wm. Bump, L. C., Cert. 63. Fort Wayne Division — We have received our new corrected copy of the schedule and note that the* officials forgot to insert the union label. Presume they don’t think as much of them as we do. F. W. South erlln is now a member. Wel- come, brother. The Butler Branch, Logansport to Butler, now a part of this division, we understand is practically lined up seventy per cent, which is low compared with the main line. Brothers over there, get in communication with our local chairman, C. A. Jana, 621 Blast Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, Ind., and have him assist you to get in the rest of the nons. Remember, “No card , no favors.** Bros, Hoelle and Sibert bid into “NY’’ Fort Wayne and C. L. Kline Larwill agency. We see by the papers that the managers want to hand the railroads back to the Gov- ernment. In spite of all that the Esch-Cum- mlns Bill gave them they have things in such a tangle that they are not moving the freight Mr. Plumb of the Plumb Plan League told them that’s what would happen. We understand that Board No, 8 has de- cided that we should be paid for the vaca- tions we did not receive in 1919. It will sodn be time to pay dues again for the last half of this year. Those of us who got annuals will not need to bother now. All pay up promptly and stick together, for we will need the organization badly if the roads stay in private hands after September 1st. B. J. F., Cert 2466. South Bend Division — Bro. Booher, third Midway, relieved a few days by Wm. Leasure, extra, now on third *‘FN.” He will soon be a brother. Sistqr Lacey, third “BO,“ visiting home folks in Columbus, Ohio, relieved two weeks by Bro. C. F. Gibson, who later resigned, relieved by Bro. Darrah, relieved by Sister Murphy on third Manson. Later Bra Dar- rah relieved Bros. Burke and Hamilton and A. C. Moore relieved Jes Logan. Hamilton and Logan on a fishing trip. Bro. A. G. Barnett, first “BO” Cabin, visiting home folks in Kewanna a few days, relieved by A. C. Moore, just back from the army. Bro. J. L. McCoy, East End, is visiting friends at Crawfordsville and Colfax. Bro. “Bud” Lynch, agent Sedalia, visited Bro. O. H. Switzer at Colfax a few Sundays ago. Bro. Sowers, Culver, relieved by Bro. George Hdlvey, later relieved by Bro. Goshen. Bro. Tom Bunnell relieved Bro. Garrett, first “FR,“ while he, with Bros. Janna, Ft. Wayne, Williams, Mansfield and Wells, East End, attended the St. Louis meeting called by General Chairmen Miller and Hindmarch to transfer Butler Branch to Bro. Janna. Bro. Applegate is now on first Reagan. Bro. Garrett met Division Operator Dale recently in regard to vacation pay and the new roster put out by this division. “FA,” Cert. 6636. Mackinaw Division — Brothers and sisters, another dues period Is here. Every one pay up promptly and save your officers the time and expense of calling your attention to being delinquent. Also protect yourself and your beneficiary at same time supporting your local and grand division officers now working upon wage and working condition questions. You all realize the importance of remaining united and you can help by each one send- ing In his dues promptly. Soon as wage problem is settled a revision of schedule will be in order and then will be the time for matters that are not right now to be taken up and adjusted. I will be glad to hear of any practices and conditions that you would suggest having corrected so they may be taken up then. I understand at Big Rapids students from the Ferris School have been instructed to come to the office there by our division oper- ator to practice. Brothers at Big Rapids, remember your obligation regarding teach- ing students, also go on record protesting against their presence there on account of tickets and train otdcrS* fr've °ther brothers please be govern a accordingly regarding working with th^ jpen. is the only Digitized by Google

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760 The Railroad Telegrapher, one brought to my notice. Brothers, we must stand pat on this matter, and don’t forget, “No* card, no favors” X have mailed out a revised seniority list, marking members with a star which were omitted after it was placed in the printer’s hands, before names of Bros. Sheets, Rock- ford ; McCormick, Comstock Park ; Pool, Harbor Springs, by printer, and Bro. Todd, a new member. I prefixed their names with stars before mailing, as they are entitled to this mark of distinction. Bro. E. Dean, agent at Leroy, has gone into the dray business, Bro. Fitzgerald from Tustin bidding in the vacancy. Bro. Barth olomy is now ticket agent Tra- verse City, . relieved at Mancelona agency by Relief Agent Bro. Gates, Bro. Cross, "UD” Grand Rapids, securing the position, Bro. Frymlre withdrawing his application. Men are scarbe, with the summer season only two months away. ^ Bro. Judge, ”UD" Grand Rapids, was called to Minneapolis, owing to the illness of his brother. Speicher, who relieved him, can buy automobiles but can't* afford to get an up-to-date. Remember, boys in “UD” and on line, “No card , no favors .” Bro. Phelps, Petoskey, is in Battle Creek sanitorium as a result of the "flu.” Bro. Thomas is working the ticket Job and Sister Hedberg first there. Bro. Clair Edwards is now with the "Big Four** at Springfield, Ohio, Bro. Ames suc- ceeding him on Kalkaska third. Bro. Duff Is relieving on second Tustin. It is now Bro. Torrey, leverman-clerk at Alba. We recently got his man raised to 48 cents per hour. A meeting was held in Grand Rapids, at Crathmore Hotel, April 17th, at 10 a. m. and 8 p. m. Both meetings well attended. Many matters were brought up and discussed and all concerned well pleased. Bros. Reed and Belding arranged for the place and your chairman, off for the day, attending, re- lieved by Bro. Northway from Missuakee Jet., closed. Other brothers present were: Kidder, McCormick, Jenkins, DIsbrow, Todd. Archambault, Cross and Cook. 1 would like to learn the names of those who are taking Labor , the official organ of the Plumb Plan League, and urge those who have not yet sent in their dollar to the treasurer, Munsey Building, Washington, D. C.f to do so, or send it to me and I will at- tend to it. It keeps you in touch with all the labor news and politics in Washington. You will want to know who you are voting for this fall, and this paper will keep you posted. We are not satisfied with the present Cummins-Esch bill ; our organizations are on record to this effect, and it’s a fight this fall to change some faces in Washington. Make your vote count for the right man, regard- \ less of party, this fall. Party doesn't mean much these days to us ; it is men we want in Washington who represent the people, not certain interests. Congressman Mapes of Grand Rapids district comes up fer re-elec- tion, I understand, this fall. His record shows he voted for the Cummins-Esch bill; be up and doing. Boys, now that a revision is in sight and a settlement of the wage question, give the company the best you have got and show the officials, regardless of the way this mat- ter has been handled, that you are worthy of what you are getting and a little bit more. Do your part, and if they don’t do theirs, there will be a reckoning day. I ask you again to send me a copy of your bids so I can keep track of the assignments. The division operators notify the successful bidder and myself. Any information re- garding assignments I will gladly give. I have permission to cover the line, and before this is in. print that will have been done. I wish to impress upon every one the necessity of sticking together. Even though you get no word for some little time, remem- ber that the important matters are being handled by officers higher up, for whose abil- ity I have the highest praise. If a new man comes to your office, see if he has a card ; if off some other line, furnish me with his certi- ficate number and name. Let’s all get to- gether for a strong pull for a 100 per cent division. We can do it. W. P. Hoffman. Lo^al Chairman, Cert. 41 4t. Chicago Terminal Division — A number of factories are keeping down organization and pulling the wool over the eyes of their employes by the so-called shop committee plan and payment of bonuses. This concern of the employers for their employes is so radical a change from the recent past as to be viewed with sus- picion, and investigation will show that this considerate treatment has been brought about by the action of the unions, and the application of the bonus system is a con- fession that the employes are being basically underpaid, or that profits are too great As conditions grow less favorable to the worker it will be an easy matter to abolish it De- mand that your earnings be put on a sound basis, not dependent on every little change of the times and the whims of the employ- ers. Talk unionism not only to your own craftsmen but to everyone who Will listen to it, and when this stuff comes out "fhat *** public is opposed to us” you will be in a position to refute it The "bunch from down in Indiana.** em- ployed on the division since March 1st *r» all live ones. Digitized by Google

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I The Railroad Telegrapher. 767 The notice sent out by Bro. Hindm&rch in regard to vacation pay was a welcome sur- prise. Ask for a copy of the schedule if you did not get one. Bro. Neimeyer bid in at Chicago Relay. Bro. Peterson is back at Calumet Bridge from California. Bro. Carr Is on the jury. Rolton tower is now in service. Sixty- third street tower is to be moved to Seventy- first street. Bra Dewey is on second in W. B. Wood’s office. Twelve jobs open on one bulletin, looks pretty good for the extra men. Bro. Taylor was called to Dayton, Ohio, recently, owing to the death of a relative. Cut. 291S. Chicago Terminal Notea — Owing to shortage of relay men and the heavy additional work at “GF” general of- fice, several of our boys have had to work overtime, and new men are being hired when they can be secured. Fifteen new jobs in this office were advertised and filled, eight being bid in from this division and the other seven by new men. Bro. Handschy bid in first, Bro. Neimeyer second, and Bro. Caponiga third “XN” Re- lay. Bra E. B. MUler from “XN” Relay bid in first Wolf Lake tower, to be near his home in Hammond. Bros. Pumphrey, Abbott and Johnson are the new first trick men going from “XN” to •'OF*' office. Bro. Man is back at Garfield Boul after an attack of the “flu," and Bro. Unruh back on third Indiana Harbor tower after several days* sickness. Bro. Truesdale, Clarke tower, is attend- ing the Shriner’s Conclave at Seattle. Bro. Thorne, Whiting, resigned to enter other fields. Our last monthly meeting was well at- tended, showing a good interest by all the brothers. Bro. Flynn, “HU” tower, was a most welcome visitor. Many details can be gone over at these meetings regarding the schedule and “shop” affairs, and all who possibly can do so should attend. Local Chairman Leslie is well posted all the time on our local, as well as the whole system affairs, and will be glad to give informa- tion to anyone wishing it. Cert. 2522. St. Louie Mid. Divieion — Bro. E. L. Mauk, extra man from Mar- tinsville, is in Effingham hospital, caused by auto accident. Bro. W. A. Smith, third Greeroys, in Mattoon hospital for operation. Bro. C. Vickrey, first Casey, resigned, re- lieved by Bro. J. A. Emrick, second there. Bro. J. L. Hill, first Thayer, bid In sec- ond “GT” Indianapolis. Bro. J. E. Dickey, second Oak Leaf, work- ing in “GM” St. Louis. Bro. H. A. Newman, first Homer, on an extended trip West, relieved by Jess Mc- Farland, and he on second Homer by ex-Bro. P. H. Huffman, who resigned here about a year ago. and will no doubt soon line up again. Cert. 2414. “Nickel Plate" R. R., Div. 18. Cleveland Division — Owing to large decrease in business caused by the switchmen’s strike, several offices have been closed. We should have no trou- ble thiB summer getting relieved for our vacations. One man taken off at Bellevue, one at Sh inrock, two at River, two copiers, three at Woodland, two at Mentor, one at Madison. Sister McShay relieved Kelly, Kingsville, a few days; Bro. George Wilson, doing a little farming, relieved several weeks by Sister Collins, and Bro. McGuerty, East Lorain, relieved Sunday by Bro. Mollenkop. The men taken into our schedule under Supplement 13 who had been receiving vaca- tions with pay prior to the time it was abol- ished and were not allowed vacations or pay in 1919 for the year 1918, will now be paid for the 12 days by an award from Wage Board No. 3. Some news was promised me for this month, but I heard only from one sister, who sent in a good write-up, but on ac- count of shortage of paper and our space being limited we are unable to print it now. Just let me know what is doing at your office and also at others that you know of and we will try and keep in the journal. Cert. 211. N. Y., Ont. & W. Ry., D|v. 20. Southern Divieion — Bro. S. W. Wilson, Cert. 374, Walton, N. Y., wishes to convey to the fellows along the line his most hearty and grateful ap- preciation of their generous and thoughtful remembrance which meant so much to him just at that particular time. N. A. Stevens. The petition in reference to Rule 3 of the schedule has been In the general manager’s liands over two months. He promised our general chairman to give It “his early at- tention.” We have always found him fair and just and I hope you will await his deci- sion with patience. Bro. Dingee, Cadosia, relieved May 9th to 14th by Bro. Zahorik. Bro. F. Schadd landed third Roscoe, his home town. Digitized by Google

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768 The Railroad Telegrapher. Bro. Breen is now relief operator, vice Bro. Capach, who bid in Burnside agency. Three summer agencies opened and five summer jobs for operators were advertised May 13th. Will need a few extra men for sick relief, etc. Bro. J. J. Mahoney is back at Fallsburgh much Improved in health after spending the winter in Florida. Time for payment of dues for last half of . 1920. Cert. No. 7. C., M. & St P. Ry., Div. 23. Musselshell Division — We are all pleased to learn of the pro- motion of P. J. Peckens, traveling represent- ative traffic department to division freight and passenger agent, succeeded by G. W. Blair, his chief clerk, headquarters of both at Butte. Bro. Boylan, relief agent, is now chief clerk to Agent Randall at Miles City. Bro. C. C. Johnson and Sister Mather sur- prised us by getting married. The helper of Local Chairman Sasser, agent Sumatra, has been taken off tempora- rily and he won’t stick unless he is restored. The only old-timer to fall by the wayside the past year is at Forsyth. Bro. Davis, agent Bundy, attended the re- cent reunion of the Spanish War Veterans at Great Falls. Many of the boys are getting Into the oil game. B. F. Johns, Miles Yard, and Earl Morrow, former second Roundup, are both presidents of oil companies. Mclntire, Mus- selshell; Field, Melstone, and Kemp and Wells, Ryegate, are all directors of oil com- panies, and it looks like they would win out The company Bro. Jones Is with is largely a railroad men's company. Cert. 2716. Aberdeen Division — I was unable to send in a write-up last month as none of the boys sent me any news, and none from the Mitchell Line this month. Some brother send me some notes for nex* issue. Bro. C. S. Reynolds bid in Mosango agency for four months, relieved on second Bow- dle by Bro. Meier of Linton, who previously relieved Bro. Soelberg, third Roscoe, a week on account of sickness. Local Chairman Vanderhoff has not re- ceived any copies of orders taken by train- men at blind sidings as requested in his circular letter of April 26th. Boys, if we want to derive any benefit from our organ- ization we will have to pay better attention to such requests. Keep track of your back pay due under Interpretation No. 8. If you don’t get ali there is coming to you take it up with our local chairman at Roscoe. He will help you all he can. Rat P. Crkelman, Cert. 3129. S. C. <k D. Division — Bro. Purvis relieved Bro. Mason at Utica, who relieved Bro. R. J^ Gorman at Colton, now operator Ethan Pit. A negro murdered another near the latter point, but was caught after a chase of a mile and a half. Work trains are coming on the /West End in flocks. Operators Scotland to Mitchell are earning their daily bread taking train orders only. Bro. Woodruff, third Tripp, is now work- ing first at that place. A very interesting meeting was held at Tripp, May 20, Local Chairman Beck attend- ing. Let’s keep the good work going, and stand behind him to the limit. Someone And out if Colombe, the new man on third Parks* ton, is up-to-date. A few news items will be greatly appre- ciated. Let’s, hear from all you brother? Address N. J. G., Ethan. Cbbt. 2062. /. & M. Division — Bro. Billy has taken the chief clerk’s posi- tion at Faribault freight office, relieved on second by Bro. Pickell, with • Helper Hahn from Ridgeway on third there temporarily Brokingsboro on Northfield second; Mnrphy back on third; Bro. Steve Johnson, third Comus, has invested in a new Chevrolet roadster. Agents Owens, Rowe and Carll have all resigned. Agent Brown Is at Dundaa agency pending bulletin. Bro. Lyons, agent Castle Rock, made a trip to Hastings recently. Bro. Chapman, first Comus, was a recent St. Paul visitor. We received our increase April 1st but the back pay has not materialized yet. Wish some of you boys would send mt a few items. Just got a flash May 23 that Castle Rock was nearly wiped out by a cyclone. G. M. Cook. P. D. C. <k Min. Pt. Division- That old landmark, the Morgan House, at Milton Junction, has been torn down make room for the new Union Station. Telegraph office located In an old coach, which was switched to the lawn. The three trick telegrapher and leverman positions at Monona Lake Tower have been abolished until new tower Is completed. Dunbarton agency closed and a custodian put on. Bro. Eller, second Janesville, and bow spent their honeymoon In Marlon, Iowa Bro. E. R. Doyle, agent Browntown, and bride were in a bad blockade on the C. P Railway in Wyoming on their honeymoon. J. M. Doyle, helper Gratiot. Is now on the extra list. Prior to the war he was agent and telegrapher on the M. P. ft N. Railway Digitized by Googk

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The Railboad Telegbapher. 769 Bro. Carl Davy is now working In Mil- waukee. Bro. Heine, first Whitewater, is being re- lieved by Bro. Williams. The L. C. Mobile & Ohio R. R., Div. 24. Southern R. R. in Mississippi Division — J. M. Lamb, W. M. Holmes, C. E. Carroll. W. B. Boatman, O. E. Bates, J. M. Bennett, O. J. Duncan, Amzi Bennett, Mrs. House and G. A. Gunter, members of the Southern R. H. in Mississippi Division of Division 24, ienjoyed a get-together meeting at Winona, Miss., Sunday, May 9th, and pledged our- selves to support and uphold the Order and do our very best to make our work 100 per cent for the company. We were certainly pleased to have our old friend O. J. Duncan with us, and he promised to help us line up the “nons” on our road. Get busy, boys ; with just a little help from each one of you we can soon have 100 per cent membership. G. A. Gunther, Local Chairman, Cert. 314, Div. 24. Wabash Railroad, Div. 26. Decatur Division, Ninth and Thirteenth Districts — Bro. Metro, second Granite City, relieved two days by Bro. Beltram, who also relieved Bro. Dunn, third Brooklyn, while he relieved Bro. 8kelton in “GM” St. Louis. Bro. Case, third Litchfield, relieved by Bro. A. B. Moore. Bro. Appel, agent Granite City, and family spent Sunday recently with relatives at Lebanon, 111. Bro. Nash, agent Carpenter, relieved by Bro. Dooley a week while down ir. Texas looking over some oil land. Bro. Custer has returned from Decatur hospital and resumed Palmer, agency. Bro. Haines, third Stonington, Is on an ex- tended trip to California. Bro. Myer Golubchin, third Mitchell, was united in marriage to a Miss Minnie San- ders of St. Louis, Mo., recently. We all ex- tend our best wishes to the happy couple. Bro. Million, Milmine agency, has moved his family from Orland, and Bro. C. R. Quig- ley, second Orland, has moved his family there. Bro. M. Meyers, first Brooklyn Yard, Is breaking *iz\ as train dispatcher at Decatur. Bro. Lominson bid in second Allen, re- lieved on second East Decatur by Walker. Someone line him up. Brothers, keep after the nons. Use our slogan, “No card , no favors ” with them un- til they take out a card. Cert. 740. St. Louis-South western Ry., Div. 27. Tyler-Lufkin Branch — B»o. Cross, first “QN” Tyler, promoted dis- patcher. Congratulations. Relieved by Bro. Riley. Bro. Prater now second ',QN,f ; Bro. Robinson, third. Bro. Holder, Flint, spent Sunday in Tyler, and Bro. Brown, "CG," spent Sunday in Waco recently. Bro. Gim- ple, "CG," was off several days fishing and hunting. Bro. Thomas has taken clerk-operator Alto and Bro. Rickard goes to Mt. Pleasant as manager. Bro. Roy Ginn, for several months with an oil company, is back with us again on Athens second. I will furnish the names of the nons to any of you members who will get after them. “No card, no favors” Let them know what it means to have an "up-to-date." Dick, Cert. 274. 8eaboard Air Line Ry., Div. 28. Members N. C. Division — Another good meeting held at Hamlet, May 8th, with 23 present. Owing to illness I was unable to be there. Hope to be on hand next time. The following have failed to pay up for current term and unless remittance is for- warded at once will be dropped from the rolls : W. T. Huntley, Jno. A. Yow, J. R. Jenks, E. J. Waddell, Chas. F. Bradt, J. S. Cain and M. F. Clapp. Bro. Keith relieved Bro. R. C. Ross at Camden, who relieved Mr. Strickland at Blaney, resigned owing to bad health. Bro. B. Harris bid in Charlotte ticket agency ; Bro. Lowman, first Camden ; Bro. Fennell, second Cola ; Bro. Rogers, third Monroe ; Bro. Clark, Kolloqks, and Bro. C. Rowe, Lugoff. There were a few other changes, but don’t know how they went. The Wage Board has finished all hearings and I understand will soon make decisions. With the H. C. L. still going skyward, some- thing must be done for us and right now. Common laborers are making four to five dollars a day, while we, after years of ex- perience and hard work, are paid less. Wo should demand a living wage. President Manlon is doing everything possible to have us paid in proportion to other sktlied workers. N. G. Ledbetter, T. P. A. this territory. Is recuperating from an operation for appendi- citis, relieved by Former Passenger Agent Etchberger from general office Norfolk. The sympathy of the entire division Is ex - tended to Bro. O. G. Gibson, Lemon Springs, in the death of his father. Bro. C. N. Maynard, Lemon Springs, N. C., has been appointed assistant to the local chairman. Bro. E. C. Cowan at Hamlet, N. C., and R. L. Church at Maxton, N. C. If anything of interest happens call on the above assistants. They will help to line up the nons. We are glad to welcome Mr. G. V. Peyton as superintendent, an old-timer who rose from an operator. Mr. Bagwell, transferred Digitized by Googk

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770 The Raii.road Tei.eohapher. to East Car Division, is a good man and we all wish him success. Send all your items to Bro. C. N. Maynard, Demon Springs, not later than the fifteenth. Wish everybody would take an interest in getting up, something for The Telegrapher every month. We will hereafter hold our regular meet- ing in Hamlet second Saturday night in each month. This will give all tl-.e agents time to get reports off their hands. Hope to have a large attendance in June. M. C. Rivers, L. C., Cert. 1367. Nqrth Carolina Division Notes — Dues for incoming term, June to Decem- ber, 1920, are now payable and hope all will remit promptly on time. Our organization is not the work of any one individual, but is for the betterment of one another and our loved ones. Now is the time for everyone to do their part. We are enjoying good hours and drawing 6130 to $175 a month. With- out the Order we would be getting about 66$ and 675. When an extra man comes to work ascertain if he has a good card. If not, secure his application and see that he gets one as soon as possible. Otherwise re- member our motto : “No card , no favors Good intentions are all right but won’t get results. Self protection is the first law of nature. That hardshell non, R. W. Crowder, has been cut off at Lemon Springs and Is now carpentering. Every member live up to the contract and then we can expect the officials to do likewise. Don’t wait for the local chairman or the A. L. C. to beg you for your dues. Show the right spirit and everyone pay up by the first anyway, then we will be through for six months and be well thought of by our fellow workers. C. N. Maynard, Asst. L. C., Cert. 1969. Georgia Division — We handled seventy-nine complaints dur- ing the past year, mostly claims for back time, and approximately 63500 were collected, costing Division 28 62.96 (exclusive of post- age), time actually lost attending Investi- gation. For sickness, floral offerings, etc., approximately 6300 was collected and dis- bursed. One of our first official acts was promo- tions to dispatcher positions. This was handled on a reciprocal basis “quid pro quo,” it being conceded that the fourth trick in Atlanta dispatcher's office would not be bulletined so as to protect the extra brother dispatcher, and that promotion Bhould be made from the ranks to trick dispatcher. As a result of these amicable negotiations many of the men have been given a “tryout,” some of the brothers making good. In conference with our local railroad officials we have been treated with uniform kindness and con- sideration, a spirit of leniency displayed in many Instances, for which we were thank- ful. Bulletining operators’ positions in Hu- rl is pa to her office was handled with satisfac- tion to a majority of all concerned. It had been a time-honored practice in that office to bulletin the fourth trick, when other tricks were vacant and apply ’’office seniority.’ Our Local Board of Adjustment passed upon the subject, the chief dispatcher concurring, and now the positions are bulletined just as they are vacated. With the beginning of the current year we were 100 per cent strong, but we now have several delinquents and a few transient ** nans Among the officer? and members of Division 28 there exists a splendid “Esprit de Corps” and our thanks must be tendered the general chairman, the general secretary and treasurer, the L. B. of A. and the entire membership of th* Georgia Division for their hearty co-opera- tion and support. Under a wise and econom- ical handling of our system funds our sur- plus has increased four fold. I have at all times kept the G. C., G. S. ft T. and L. B. of A. fully advised of all my official acts.’ “Hush, little brother, don’t you cry You’ll get an increase bye and bye." W. H. Tyree. L. C., Atlanta, Ga. Alabama Division — It is time to remit our dues for the last half of this year and I hope every one on this division will promptly send them to Bro. Gumming, and also their M. B. D. asses* ments to Bro. Rawlins, and not make it nec- essary to wTite additional letters calling their attention to these important matters. Don’t allow your name to appear on the de- linquent list. We must take more Interest in our Order. When a new man comes to our division as- certain whether he has a card. If not, see that he gets one as soon as possible. A number of extra men have promised to come in the last half of this year. See that they keep their promises to do soj- We are expecting great things this year and each one ought to do his part and see that others do theirs. When you fail to keep your dues paid up you weaken our cause and make our fight for you just that much harder. A. F. Fanning, L. C., Cert 3. Virginia Division — We held a meeting at Norlina. Sunday. May 8th, with a large attendance. General Chairman Tidwell was present Resolutions were unanimously passed to break up the practice of others than the operator uateg the phone, which has been abused on thU division no little in the past j I ^ Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 771 Bro. Tidwell was with me t several days going over matters on this division. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Bro. W. W. Jones in the loss of his wife and in- fant on May 14th. It seems hard to take from such a happy family a loving wife, Just in bloom of life, and leave such a good man alone. The writer relieved him and knows the depth of sorrow. It is now brothers J. J. Meade, C. P. Rod- * well, C. T. Gallian, W. D. Barham, B. H. Burrows, O. T. Philleman and O. B. Wil- liams. Four men at Petersburg, & W. Hunt, Greystone; W. B. Scruggs, Suffolk, and J. W. Wrinkler, Chester, are still on the non list. Keep after them and let’s make the division 100 per cent this coming ternv I want to congratulate you on keeping off the delin- quent list and ask each of you to remit your dues to Bro. Cumming and your insur- ance assessments accompanied by the slip signed to Bro. Rawlings before the sixty days are out, so we can make a record this time for the Virginia Division. Do not make us the unnecessary work to have to write you* Your dues expire June 30th and unless you remit to reach St. Louis within sixty days, you will be on the delinquent list. We have too much necessary work for your interest to take up so much time run- ning down delinquents. Will you not assist to this extent? Our organization is before the Labor Board in Chicago and we hope to hear something favorable soon. We have as fine a set of train dispatchers on this division as can be found anywhere. V. L. Cherry has been dispatching thirty-one years. Dispatcher R. C. Watkins was re- cently married. We wish him a happy fu- ture. Jno. D. Lanier, R. H. Eastman, D. S. Shepard and Jno. I. Ellison have served sev- eral years as dispatchers on this division. McDonald is a new man. We appreciate their kindly treatment. Floral Fund. Receipts previously reported $47.50 Disbursements — Bro. Rodwell, wreath $15.00 Hall rent. Portsmouth, Dec. 7th 2.00 Hall rent, Portsmouth, Jan. 26th 2.00 Wreath for Bro. Jones’ wife. 15.00 $34.00 Balance $13.50 Walter A. Joyner, L. C. N. Y., N. H. A H. R. R., DIv. 29. Sew London Division — , The Wood River Branch has been re- turned to private ownership with Bro. James C. Wilson promoted to the superin- tendency. Bro. Wm. F. Murray is relieving Bro. Jess B. Snow, operator-clerk North Oxford, who has been very ill with double pneumonia, but is now improving. Bro. John B. Allen, agent-operator there, relieved by Bro. Ray- mond B. Allen, Providence Division, has fully recovered from his recent illness. It is a pleasure to welcome back Bro. Charles A. Green to third Wickford Junction, fully recovered from his severe illness. Bro. Wrn. D. Cross, Bradford, R. I., has returned from Chester, Pa., where he was called on account of the death of his father. Sister Eddie M. Allen is sick at her home in Eagleville, Conn. Bro. Frank E. Evans, East Tower Mid- way, relieved by our old friend Albert C. Weeks, recently re-entered the service, is on an indefinite leave, taking a medical course. Bro. Doyle, second Apponaug, R. I., is at Washington, D. C., keeping his eye on the Wage Board. Bro. Thos. O. McLaughlin is substituting. Sister Grant. Kingston, being relieved by Sister Gladys K. Bray, intends to visit our grand officers at St. Louis, Mo. The few delinquents who made a practice of waiting until the last minute to pay their dues possibly do not realize the additional trouble this makes for the local chairman, the extra work it imposes on our grand sec- retary at St. Louis and our general secre- tary and treasurer at New Haven. Their insurance is of no benefit to them whatever when they allow their dues to lapse for two and three months at a time. It is Just as easy to pay up at the beginning of the term as It Is to wait until the end of it. Local Chairman Bowler requests that those who are back with their dues pay up at once. We should keep up-to-date in order to pro- tect our present wage scale and secure fur- ther Increases. Prominent railroad officials are satisfied and are credited as having stated that the increases we have received in the last five years have not been com mensurate with the advance in the cost of living, and due consideration of this fact will no doubt be given by the board in de- termining who are entitled to better wages. So pay your dues as early as possible. It is necessary under existing conditions. This is not much of a write-up as I anj out of service on account of sickness. E. H. Scriven, Cert. 918. C. S. E. R. R. Division — Many brothers complain that they cannot get off because relief agents are busy on other special work and wish to have this stopped, but they should remember that this kind of work greatly increases their knowl- edge of station work and accounts. I be- lieve the way to solve this problem is to have the relief work given preference, mak- ing other duties secondary. This will give ample time to take care of ail in this man- ner. I for one am opposed to stopping relief Digitized by Google

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772 i The Railroad Telegrapher. agents from working on station accounts and giving an agent a helping hand when he gets in a position where he needs it. We hope Bro. Bates will soon be able to induce Kent at Holmes and Qaliaher and Mackay at Brewster that it is to their in- terests to carry a card. Cokertown agency, closed May 1st, to be open during the winter months, and C. J. Hoysradt, now relieving the operators, will later relieve the agents. The superintendent and chief dispatcher are receiving requests from agents for thirty clays leave. Owing to the scarcity of spare operators and agents vacation requests should be sent in at once so that arrange- ments can be made to make reliefs as rap- idly as possible. Bro. Rosa at Brinckerhoff is quite a gar- dener and botanist. The neat appearance of the surroundings at his station gives evi- dence of this. Bro. Wooden was off on account of sick- ness several days, making it necessary to double at West Pawling. He is now taking treatment, although not able to work. He has our wishes for his early recovery. Bro. Maher also off three days on account of sickness made it necessary to double at Green Haven, and I relieved one day in or- der to break violation. While sorting freight Bro. Beatty, at Brewster, dropped a keg of pyrox, painfully injuring his foot, but managed, with outside help, to keep things going without relief, al- though being Just about able to move around for the first few days. One evening recently Towners station was destroyed by Are, cause unknown, and Agent Fleming is now doing business in a combi- nation passenger and baggage car. Owing to my time being taken up on the Danbury Division I will be unable to send a write-up for the C. N. E. unless some of the brothers mall me some notes. G. R. Gustafson, Cert. 158. D,, L. & W. R. R., Div. 30. Buffalo Division — We are holding joint meetings with L. V. and N. Y. C. Lines the third Wednesday in every month at Hotel Brozel, Buffalo, N. Y. The morning and evening sessions are ar- ranged so that all may attend. There are subjects discussed that will interest us all and every brother should endeavor to be present Let’s see a large delegation from the D. L. & W. at the next meeting. Pogorzellas and desire to congratulate all who so generously contributed to the relief of a distressed brother. C. E. Hill, L. C. Scranton Division — The monthly meeting In Scranton, May 7th, was largely attended. General Chairman Farley gave the boys some good informa- tion. Would like to see more members out to the next meeting. There is no reason why there should not be. Bro. B. F. Edwards, relieved by Mr. Ship- ton, worked as extra dispatcher on the Bloom a few weeks. Bro. Machyouski is relieving Bra Carlin, second Ithaca Passenger Station, assigned other duties. Bro. Harney. Scranton relay nights, pro- moted to days for the summer, relieved by Bro. Baker, relieved by Memo from East End Tower, Scranton Yard. Bro. Vroom, Portland, holds an annual card. Boys, this is what more of os should do. Brothers, be sure to look jobs over and see how you luce the work before you bid on them. Broi Foy, second Clarks Summit Tower, was off several days recently. I would like Bro. James Keanney, Oxford, to call me on the wire or mail me a few notes. F. S. Raxslt, Cert 505. Missouri Pacific R. R~, Div.. 31. JopHn Division — Bro. Clark Duncan, second Harrisonvllle, was relieved a few weeks by Bro. Sweet and he on third by Glenn Price. Bro. Dun- can was the successful bidder on second Webb City and will report there when re- turning to duty, succeeding Bro. L C. Cal- lender, visiting friends and relatives in Springfield, relieved by Bro. Bailey's son. John. Bro. Foreman, third Archie, visited Sun- day recently with home folks at 8heldon; Bro. R. J. Malone, agent Archie, is being relieved by Bro. Nunn, and Bro. Ben Brooks, agent Granby, by, Bro. W. F. Tracy from Division 4. We hope he will soon land some- thing permanent. Sister Eddlemon, who resigned Hannon agency, has withdrawn her resignation and will live at Navada or Bronaugh, as there are no living accommodations at Hannon. It Is now Bro. E. T. King, agent Passaic. The present term has almost passed into history and we hope the few delinquents will pay up without further delay. There is every good reason why we should all be in good standing. Your insurance cannot bf paid to your beneficiaries should you dk in arrears for your dues and assessments. It is easy enough for the officials to figure out the status of the up-to-date member should he be called upon to show his metal, but there is always a doubt where the de- linquent will stand at such times. Doo'l let us worry our officers with anything likf this. Our committee now has the U. S. mad question up with the' management. It b likely the company will propose that we han- dle it for extra pay, as the Government b Digitized by L-oogle j

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 773 now paying the roads for that service, but we should not handle it for any consider- ation whatever. C. V. Howe, Cert. 87, Local Chairman. Northern Kansas Division — Bro. T. S. James relieved Bro. G. A. Hart, Republic City, who bid in Alton agency. Bros. H. A. Hast and S. G. Cerny from the St. Louis Division of the Illinois Central were employed a short time ago, the former going to Barnes one day, then resigned, the latter to Goffs, extra. Bro. Eickman succeeded Hammer, second Barnes, resigned. Bro. Erwin was without an operator two weeks, second being tem- porarily closer. Bro. L. P. Hall, in the dispatcher’s office, succeeded at Hastings agency by Bro. W. A. Strong, is relieving Dispatcher Jones, acting car distributor, vice Spencer, promoted to the claim department at Atchison, Kan. Miss Garnette O. Wolfe has returned to Densmore from a visit in Oklahoma; Miss R. E. Jones, relieving, is now at Claudell. Bro. L. P. Hall is now car distributer and you have to show reasons now for delays to cars. Bro. H. C. Panzbram has returned to Ef- fingham after a week’s illness. All the boys on the East End are glad to hear Bro. Overton at "XN” again. We are all proud of the fact that of all the seven divisions on the system ours is the only one with no delinquents and we want to keep this record good. Get after "Mac” and Dowell, the two desirable nons, and line them up. We all sympathize with Bro. Moore In the loss of his father and sister. He has taken a three months’ leave. Bro. Larkin also has our sympathy in the bereavement of his brother, recently murdered at Monrovia, and hope the murderer will soon be brought to justice. Cert. 2650. Baltimore & Ohio R. R., Div. 33. Chicago Division — We were very much grieved on the morn- ing of May 22nd when we learned of the sudden death of Bro. O. E. Lane, "JO,” sec- ond "RX" Willard. Ohio. , He left the office as usual on Friday evening and while mow- ing the lawn the following morning com- plained of being tired. He was found dead in his chair five minutes later. A beautiful floral design was sent to the funeral and our deepest sympathy is extended to the be- reaved relatives. The collection for Bro. Peechy’s family amounted to $63.60 on this division. The secretary and treasurer thanks all who con- tributed to this fund, which was needed by the wife and children. It’s now Bros. Loomis, McCormick and Spitzer. Will furnish anyone a list of "nons” who will endeavor to line them up. Brothers, make a special effort to get in those who work with or beside you. Garrett is now 100 per cent solid, including the two clerks In "DS.’’ Bro. Savage bid in Walkerton second, vice Bro, Slyder to Garrett days, doing extra dis- patching. Bro. Park, Garrett, is still on the sick list Bro. Bill Cook went there for a few days. Bro. Wineland, “HK" Tower, took Auburn Junction second. Bro. Spencer Is at Willard days. Bro. Smith, "JD” South Chi- cago, has resigned. Toledo Division men doubling at Deshler ; extra men at "GC” several days;. entire of- ficial staff at Chicago doing heavy work. Bro. Foley relieved by Bro. Miller while attending the safety meeting. "RN,” Cert. 2063, Bascom, Ohio. Illinois Division — The write-up for last month was received too late for publication. The extras have been getting quite a bit of work lately as several are indulging in a little spring vacation. Sister Greathouse relieved the agent at Cissne while he took his wife to the hospital at St. Louis. Bro. Warma relieved Bro. Johnson, first, and extra dispatcher at Wheatland while the latter relieved the dispatchers at Flora on their two*day vacations. Cupid has been busy on our division lately, claiming tw'o of our brothers. Bro. Kile, first Carlyle, who w'as relieved by Bro. Bokencamp, later by Bro. George, while he took unto himself a bride, and Bro. Dame, Furman second, relieved by Mrs. Harris, is spending his honeymoon on the board walk at Atlantic City. Congratulations and best wishes to the newlyweds. Sister Edmiston, who relieved Bro. Malone, Kenia second, a few days on account of sickness, later relieved Local Chairman Al- len, Taylorville first, while he was on com- mittee work. The brothers and sisters of our division thank our local chairman for their earnest efforts in securing the rest of our back pay. Cert. 2941. Indiana Division — On the night of April 30th the Queen City Telegraphers’ Club gave an entertainment at Hotel Gibson, Cincinnati, which greatly sur- passed anything ever before attempted in this vicinity. More than six hundred tickets were sold up to the last accounting, the sale price, including the wartax, being placed at twenty-five cents. The cost of production amounted to $324.76, including the printing of tickets and program, hall rent, muslcale and orchestra costs. With 630 tickets un- Digitized by Google

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774 The Railroad Telegrapher. reported, the deficiency is $70.51, with seven divisions Interested. Local Chairman Dono- van remitted $10.00 from the fund collected for the Workingmen’s Political Information Bureau in assurance of Indiana Division's participation. , It was,ver£ unfortunate that the switch- men’s trouble came immediately preceding the entertainment, which otherwise would have left a substantial balance for the pro- motion of future affairs. However, it repre- sented the largest attempt ever undertaken by the telegraphers in this vicinity for the production of social entertainment, and with the knowledge gained in the promotion of this 1920 concert, the next one is certain to be a greater success with & better balance financially. There was no hitch at any point in the production and its approval was evident from every one both during and after the entertainment. The crowd was very sociable and well behaved. Local Chairman Stone, Pennsylvania Lines, Cincinnati, chair- man of the committee of entertainment, did some very splendid work. .A reported widespread reduction of prices spread from coast to coast seems to carry the impression with it that H. C. L. was caused by the working people demanding exorbitant wages and that purchases would not make a great reduction in prices. This idea is controverted by the fact that the finest grade of hides are reported selling at 40 cents a pound, and those in a position to know claim that the labor cost to manu- facture a pair of shoes is only $1.80. Per- haps some of the mathematicians among our membership can inform the rest of us how a fifteen dollar pair of shoes gets that t cay. Drv. Cor. Connellsville Division — New names on honor roll : D. W. Cypher, A. G. Blosser and G. T. May. Recognition of Bro. E. K. Cockley's ability was again noticeable recently when he was brought from Paint Creek agency to help out on report compiling at Connellsville super- intendent’s office. There was a grand rush for Salisbury Junction. Pa., office, opened May 1, with Bros. W. J. Currie, Sipple and Getty the winners. Two-thirds of Oriental, Pa., has gone for suffrage, Sisters Walthers and Boyer, on second and third there, respectively. Bro. J. W. Medford, ticket agent Morgan- town, W. Va., has taken up straight tele- graphing again. Bro. A. B. King, ticket agent Uniontown, Pa., is now private secretary to the division freight agent there. Bro. R. R. Souser, having received his commission as postmaster at Rockwood. Pa., has relinquished first Wilson Creek, Pa. This division responded nobly to the Peachey fund with a total subscription of $65.75, and received the congratulations of our general secretary and treasurer. Cebt. 141 Members N. C . Division — The papers soliciting funds for the aid of Bro. Harry Marsh returned to me show three one-dollar subscriptions not paid, or at least not checked off. Bro. Stout handed Bro. Marsh $104.75, which is highly appre- ciated by Bro. Marsh and his wife. They have sold their home and furniture at Rltt- man and will live with Mrs. Marsh's peo- ple at Chardon until Bro. Marsh is able to resume duty. He will be glad to hear from any of his friends at that point. The question of seniority on the Lake Branch seems to have stirred up quite a feeling among certain ones who felt that the members who lost their seniority did not get a fair show, and the division operator helped matters along by blaming everything on the local chairman. I have checked it over thoroughly with the division operator, and find that Sisters Wilmot and Gladys Haw- kins were dropped in error and should retain their full seniority; the others Mr. Griffin refuses to consider at all, and a ruling from the general chairman reads that employ® who are not available for duty shall be dropped from the list unless they are on a leave of absence. There are a few who have failed to pay their dues for the current term, and I hope that any feeling against me will not be used as a pretext 1 6 drop their membership. The more members we have the more force to our kick. Bro. Bane has been made a member of the Local Board of Adjustment, in charge of the New Castle territory. Here’s hoping he Ums them all up down that way. Bro. Dove from "MR” bid in third "KS" and the railroad loaded his household goods at a point near his home, two miles from the station at Homer. Bro. Dove appre- ciated the favor very much as it saved him a haul over bad roads. Bro. Reese, third Davenna, to first "KN" Tower. Bro. Browning from Wooster has accepted a position on the Baltimore Division, and we recommend him highly to either Bro. McGrath or Stouffer. It is their gain and our loss. Cuyahoga Falls and Wooster agencies at 75 and 69 cents an hour, receiving no bids, were advertised again. If that extra man at your office does sot carry a card help us to land him. If he is a member of another division get his Cot and division number and time of expiration and advise the local chairman. G. A. McBride, Local Chairman. Digitized by Google

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The Rah^road Telegrapher, i u> Xmccastle Division Notes — Bro. R. S. Timmons, second “FS” Tower extra, was called to his home, Louisville, Ky., owing to the serious illness of his wife. Brothers, better observe speed restrictions at Lordstown. Bro. Quay Is J. P. there. Delaying train movement by opening keys on train wire circuit will no doubt be run down shortly and the guilty parties dealt with accordingly. Better adjust personal or prejudicial matters in some other less dan- gerous way. Bro. Holliday to “KN” Tower, Greenwich second, relieved at Ohio Junction by Bro. Mosher. Bro. Cunningham to Lowellville third, re- lieved at ”FS” Tower by Timmons. Brothers at various offices doubling, no * xtra men to relieve. Bro. McLaughlin, first Newton Falls, has sone In the dairy, hog and poultry business, everything fresh, quite a nuifiber of rail- road men being supplied by him. Bro. Ault is back on second ’BD” Tower after a month's illness. Your scribe has changed his address to 215 W. Elm street, Kent, Ohio, and will ap- preciate any items you may be able to send for publication in The Telegrapher. It is impossible for me to keep In touch with the numerous changes and happenings on the division that should be in our writeups. News received too late for last month’s issue. R. Gliddon, Cert. 1998. Floral Fund. Balance on hand March 1st $22.80 Received since 2.75 No expenditures. Total on hand May 1st $25.55 V. P. McLaughlin, Local Treas. C., R. I. & P. Ry., Div. 35. General Offices — Trenton — Bro. Lauder, from Des Moines, now working here. We like such men with us. He always carries an annual. Bro. Young makes frequent visits to Kan- ins City. Says he gets tired loafing in Trenton Sundays. I have talked that way myself. Bro. Stovall has his eyes on a wire chief’s Job. The handsome increases they received look good to him. Bro. Price had an enjoyable time at the Savoy Hotel meeting in Kansas City, May 15 th. Topeka — One of the boys in Herington has a letter from Bro. Hamilton dated at San Francisco. Bill is some traveler. Sugar around 30 cents a pound is about as hard on the ’’widows and orphans” as during the recent coal strike, but our gov- ernor has made no moVe to alleviate it. The Telegrapher is Jam full of mighty '-rood reading these days. I trust all our members will read all the political items. The ballot is the only weapon left us now. There’s not a Republican nor a Deipocrat in “KI.” Any time an office Meeker shoves his campaign card under our nose this year he is going to be cross-examined as to his at- titude towards labor, industrial courts, etc., and on his replies will depend the support he gets from this office. Get the habit, broth- ers, put ’em on record. I have an inquiry from the mother of Roy Lee, who left Chicago a short time ago. Any- one knowing his whereabouts will confer a favor by furnishing me his address. Hope the few delinquents (too many at that), if they are waiting for the back pay which is coming right now, will spend it for a card. It won’t buy much of anything else these days. Bro. Lester Hallock, formerly ticket clerk here, has been promoted to the city pas- senger office, 320 North Broadway, St. Louis; Mo., and will be glad to see any of the boys when up that way. United States Marshal Wood of Kansas, feeling the pulse of Kansas citizens previous to entering the race for governor this fall if he receives proper encouragement, says : ‘‘There would be a good chance to win when you take into consideration the governor’s socialistic land tenancy bill, his un-Ameri- can labor laws, his self-constituted court of Industrial relations, that the people have no choice in the selection of, together with the legislative attempt to brand every citizen as a criminal, who, when two or more become dissatisfied with their wages and living con- ditions, decide to quit work ; and his un- warranted criticism of the Battle of Argonne Forest which reflected on the gallantry of the Kansas soldiers.” Well, I’ll say there would. El Reno — It Is now "Bro." Ridgeway, re- cently returned from California. Bro. Phelps spent a few days pleasantly recently with his mother and sister at Wann. Okla., but unfortunately sprained his wrist cranking a Ford. Several “Memos” from Superintendent Hood's office says : “Expecting to mail back pay checks Monday.” There’s nothing like being hopeful. At the April meeting of the Pan-Homa O. R. T. Club Bro. Phelps was elected pres- ident ; Bro. Keeton, first vice ; Bro. Rogers, second vice ; Bro. Wilday, secretary-treas- urer. All new officers except Bro. Wilday unanimously re-elected for the ensuing year. We note “cheering news” from Washing- ton in a headline, 11 Wage Hearing to Con- sume Months,” but it’s another matter when the roads are trying to get an increase in rates and wire their pussyfoot lawyers to * ’lobby” for the Increase and get the va- rious state commissions to work in “har- mony” with the Interstate Commerce Com- mission. Digitized by L-oooLe

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77G The Railroad Telegrapher. This office is now solid 100 per cent. Bro. Singler, our newest recruit, comes from the Santa Fe with an up-to-date card. George, please note. Bro. Ridgeway bid in Trenton vacancy. Bro. Rogers “cleaned up” at the prize fight recently. Congratulations, kid. Our Mgr.-W. C., Bro. Stickley, spilled his No. 10 Remington all over the concrete floor recently, but with the able assistance of Lineman Adams soon got it re-railed. Business is good and ^e have authority for an additional man but unable to find one yet. The local manager of the Western Union, steadfast and "loyal" during the recent strike, has been succeeded by< a more "pro- gressive" representative. He is in good standing in the A. W. U. E., however, an<J should be able to get reinstated with pay for time lost. He wants to know if the R. I. could use him if he Joined the O. R. T. He should have been advised (if he was not) that we don't need any "scabs." R. D. Stovbr, L. C. Illinois Division — This division has not had a write-up tor a long time and I would like to wake up some enthusiasm in this line. There should be someone willing to do this before the 25th of each month. Let’s ask the local chairman to appoint someone if he has no time to do it himself. We hope the Railroad Board now in ses- sion at Chicago will do the right thing for the men who are asking only for a living wage. Quite an interesting meeting was held Saturday p. m., May 22, in Harper House parlor by the Tri-City Telegrapher Club, open to members with up-to-date cards. Only ten R. I. brothers attended, although twice that many promised to come. Dunham gave us a good two hours talk. Bro. Thomas, Ottawa, was called home May 12th by the death of his father at Mason City, 111., and Bro. J. J. Leahy, third Rockdale, was away several days owing to the death of a cousin. Bro. Wagoner, first there, was also off several days. Bro. P. G. Vernon bid in Rock Island fourth. Bro. Marshall (Oil King) in Utica re- cently, says things look prosperous in the West. Changing of Division 126 to 85 was cer- tainly a good move. Nothing like going for- ward and our division is certainly going that direction. Let’s1 keep her that way. Cbrt. 2045. Missouri Division — The meeting held by Bro. Kay at Trenton was attended bv Bros. Young, Price. Stovall, Lowe and Jones. Trenton Relay ; Bay k, Cameron Junction; Chumbley, Smart; Eldon, “NE” ; Dean, Gallatin; Hanks, Leavenworth; Orcutt, Winston ; Handley, Edgerton, and Local Chairman Kruser. The latter while working in Trenton and Chicago Relay re- lieved at Allerton by Bro. Taylor, who later relieved Bro. Stewart at Seymour when h* went to Trenton for a few days. General chairmen’s meeting at Save-, hotel, Kansas City, Saturday night. Mar 15 th, was addressed by Vice-President Brown, General Chairman Coleman and J. C. High, Santa FeA and General Secretary and Treasurer Gendron, of the latter road Others present were Bros. Garrett and Brown, agents respectively at Union ville and Mercer ; Price, Trenton Relay, and Cox and Davis, third Princeton and Udell, respec- tively. I went 192 miles and another brother a few miles farther to hear the talks, which were worth anyone’s time spent in that way. Two more nons gone, Cain, Centerville Tower, .and Fields, third Tindall, a farmer member. Bro. Chumbley, who went to latter point pending bulletin, later to Columbus Junction. You brothers working next to thf other few “nons” left keep after them. They are getting what you paid for, just as much as if you went to the store and paid their grocery bill, and then they have the nerr* to talk about buying automobiles with tie back pay we got for them. Send $1.00 to the Plumb Plan League. Machinists Building, Washington, D. C„ for a membership card therein, which also par: for a year’s subscription to “Labor" pttb lished weekly. It gives you all the frets the daily capitalist papers don’t dare to print about what our enemies are trying to do 05 in Congress and the Senate. The other papers have to ridicule It ; if they didn’t the big business advertisers would quit them and they couldWt exist without that patronage Bros. Kessler, agent, and Conaolver. sec- ond Jamesport, have bought a truck an4 gone into the drayage business there. Bro. Jones, agent Spickards, visited hem* folks at Jamesport recently, Bro. Hooper relieved on third Nahant fcy Bro. Winsor. Dispatcher J. L., Hawn is been from overseas. • Bro. Samuels, who relieved on woca! Washington, also relieved Bro. Robertses »- Mercer a few days to get married. V* should have a flower fund for such ores- sions. Bro. Turner bid in Muscatine and Bro Hillyard, Princeton. Bro. West was bumped from Lineviih third when Mrs. Keemle returned from nln- ty days’ leave and found her Job dosed. Cur. 1560. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 777 Louisiana, Division — You all know who the nons are on this division, so let’s make it so hot for them that they will Join or leave. Bro. F. D. Swift, Bernice, was off a few days recently. Local Chairman Jones, Fordyce, has been busy for several weeks straightening out irregularities in the new rate of pay. Understand ‘'Uncle Sam” will soon do his own parcel post packing, or we shall be com- pensated for doing it and these jobs put up for bids. We hope the oil wells we soon shall have from one end of the Louisiana Division to the other will boost our express commission a little better. No items from the South End this month. We trust all of the boys are getting rich faster than we on the North End. Ckrt. 3429. Kansas Division — Our case is before the Labor Board at Washington and everything is looking good for an increase in wages. Card index received from Bro. Dunnam recently will keep the local chairman cor- rectly informed where the membership is paid to, a great Improvement over the old way. Bro. Hallock, Horton, off ninety days, S. R. Bonnell relieving. Extra agents are scarce. Brothers, place your bid for vacations in plenty of time in advance. This will probably help you in getting away. No write up from this division last month. No items received. Send me your notes not later than the 15th of each month. All positions on the division by this time should have the new schedules with all wage and working conditions to date, including supplements and interpretations. The railroads are asking 28 to 30 per cent increase in freight rates to meet the high wages paid, playing safe on the 6 per cent granted them. Here is where we should have some look in. Keep after that delinquent and non next to you and don’t give them any rest until they line up. Let us make the division 100 per cent by the first of next year. Remit dues this month for the next term. M. W. Shaw, Local Chairman. Dea Moines Valley Division — Bro. and Mrs. J. K. Arnold and little son of Segoumey visited home folks at Donds recently. We are much pleased to learn that Bro. E. S. Warren, agent Kirkville, who has been off duty ninety days on account of sickness, is able to return to work. Bro. and Mrs. Cox of Harper buried their little child at Oskaloosa Monday. Deepest sympathy extended to them. Bro. Toson of Des Moines visited in Oska- loosa between trains recently. Bro. J. W. Price, agent Beacon, attended the funeral of his grandson, little Jack Price, who died suddenly at the home of his par- ents there. Bro. C. F. Dykstra, agent Pella, called on Knoxville friends and relatives May 1st. Bro. H. A. Pickett, agent Oivin, visited over Sunday recently with his family at Leighton. Cbrt. 785. Ioica Division — Our three new members, M. F. Kennedy, Stuart ; R. R. Smith, Ladora, and J. R. Mil- ler, Earlham, leaves us only two nons among a total of 142. Hope to see 100 per cent next month. Bro. E. O. Browning is now on Earlham third. Bro. Wiese cancelled bid on Iowa City No. 2 and will stay at Anita. Under- stand this decision was caused by the pret- tiest girl in that town. Bro. Wheatly, second Walnut, has gone with the Milling Co. We wish him success and know he 4will keep up his card. Bro. Dewey, West Liberty, one of the in- corporators of a half million dollar corpor- ation, will be secretary of the concern. Bro. Morford, agent Harlan, accused of violating the hours of service- law, says singing lullabyes to his new baby girl is emergency service,- making the legal limit 17 hours instead of 13. Bro. R. H. Thompson, extra agent, is now chief clerk at Newton. General chairman orders us not to make any contracts with the company to carry U. S. mail as it is the policy of the organi- zation to forever free us from that nuisance. We have handled it too long as it is. No one has money enough to hire us to handle it willingly. In these turbulent times let us all keep our heads level. Support Bro. Manion to the limit, but don’t get rebellious. If those op- posing us could divide us they would have us at their mercy. Soon be time for dues again. Let the number of delinquents on this Iowa Division be represented by a large handsome goose egg. H. N. Dutton, L. C. Illinois Central R. R., Div. 36. Wisconsin Division — Everybody is anxiously awaiting the find- ings of the Labor Board now in session at Chicago. Shortage of telegraphers is being keenly felt as they are leaving the service and en- tering other lines of work at much larger wages and equally as good conditions. This has caused the officials to abolish leaves or Digitized by Google

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778 The Railroad Telegrapher. absence to try out other positions because the men are not returning. We are pleased to learn that the company has recognized the fitness of Bro. Aufden- spring and made him assistant agent at Rockford, probably the best position on this division. Local Chairman Kelly succeeds him as agent at Mlnonk and he on first by Bro. Hlnrichs. Bro. Branstetter took Dill, Wis., agency, vice Bro. Frank to towerman at C. N. W. Crossing. Bro. Ross resigned at Belleville, Wis.( succeeded by Bro. Bross, and Bro. Moore, third Seward, went to Blanchardville. Bro. Strang bid in second Seward, vice Bro. Maziere to Kerrick. No applicants for oper- ator-cashier Madison. Not enough money to make anyone desire the position. Bro. Foucht, second Rockford, has resigned. We are sorry to learn of the illness of Bro. Barclay, who has gone Southwest for his health, relieved at Lostant by Bro. Dor- sey. We are still waiting for the printed sched- ule with hourly rates and working condi- tions. Cert. 179. Louisiana Division — Station helpers at some stations are an- swering dispatcher’s telephone, handling messages, etc., after the agent and oper- ators are relieved from duty. Watch and see that this is discontinued. Dispatchers frequently tell trainmen to “go to so and so and call in." The superintendent has agreed to have this discontinued, except in cases of extreme emergency. Report to me any con- tinuance of this practice, so that I can look into it Milestone and Eden made continuous tele- graph offices. Second and third tricks Bee Lake discontinued. Bro. Cotton assigned agency Eden, ac- count Bro. Strickland unable to telegraph. Bro. Spragins has returned from his 30 days’ leave, spent in California. Bro. Head's father reported seriously ill. We hope for him a speedy recovery. Bro. Hunt has resumed at “BD” after several weeks’ illness. We welcome into the Order Mrs. L. L. Clanton and Geo. N. Frlsbie. Bro. Fugate was a recent Baton Rouge visitor. Bro. Buck granted 60 days’ leave. Bro. Hiram Allen was recently sworn in as a member of the Independence Board of Aldermen. Congratulations. The response to the floral fund was good and we now have a nice sum in bank t# take care of any emergency. “UN,” Cert. 624. C.t B. & Q. R. R., Div. 37. Relay Division — “GO’’ Chicago. — Bro. Walter Herman Wln- chell has returned from a visit to his father and mother at Alma, Mich. Bro. G. M. Zinn, second "WC* at Hanni- bal, is recuperating from his recent illness at Denver, Colo. We are all glad to knov that he is on the road to recovery. Bro. J. G. Nugent is back in "GO” after several days' illness. Bro. J. H. Ramp, first “WC" Galesburg, off on account of sickness, expects to be back with us in a week or so. Bros. Martin and Chester Trumble, ’’GO," are entertaining their brother-in-law, second W. C. Thompson at Spokane, Wash., for the G. N. “BN” Burlington, Iowa. — Chief Dispatcher Temple is in the East, where he recently un- derwent an operation. Bro. Samuelson is working as third trick dispatcher while Ur. Temple is off, relieved by W. C. Small in relay office. Later Bro. Small was relieved as second “WC" while visiting his wife and new boy at Monmouth by Bro. C. B. Ather- ton, who later visited his mother, relieved by Bro. Kllks on second. Bro. T. H. Dearing spent a few days in Maryville, Mo., attending court recently, and is now trying the batching stunt while his wife is on a visit in Missouri. J. E. Houston, former operator at “BN/ now with the Equitable Insurance Company of Iowa, was in to see the “boys" recently The C., B. & Q. employes are planning on holding their annual picnic at Crapo Park. June 12th. The telegraph office expects to be well represented. Aurora Division — Bro. Spaulding is now on second La Salle, vice Bro. Brough on third Mendota depot; Bro. McHenry, Rockford, at Tampico agency; Bro. Dilts, Deer Grove, agent H- cona. 111., and Bro. D. E. Watson, first Hins- dale tower, on Zearing second, vice Bro. Thomson to Plano second. Bro. Cummings, agent Millington, has re- signed. The new tower at West Eola was opened, with Bro. Deane first, Bro. Hunter second and Bro. Trout third. Bro. Anderson of Leland is now on sec- ond Downer’s Grove tower; Bro. Wleghoret Rockford depot, on first Galva depot, and Bro. Merrill, on second Hinsdale tower for the past five years, on first there, succeeded by Bro. Gorman. Bro. Overly is on second Leland, and Bro. Brusate, Rockford station, on third Rochelle. Bro. Bill Corcoran, agent Oregon, was in the St. Charles Hospital, Aurora, the greater part of April ; Bro. Dinwiddle, Somonauk second, was away 'several months ; also Sif- ter Bird, Chana second, account of slctenesf. Digitized by tjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 779 and Bro. Sexton, Leland, has been sick for four months. We were short a write-up last month, as Local Chairman Todd was In the Aurora Hospital for an operation. Cert. 5. Beards town Division — Sister Wilson, Block 104, is oft on account of sickness. Bro. Christopher was relieved several nights by Bro. Wiegehoff. . Bro. Ball and daughter visited with me a few hours, and Bro. Hickman, Vermont, visited his mother at Tablegrove, April 29th. Bro. Bartlett, Swancreek, mashed off his Anger while unloading freight. Bro. Todd turned down second Christopher and Bro. Thompson, Cambon, then bid it in. Bro. Sam Haiste has purchased a new Ford. Brothers, keep after the few delinquents. It is now Bro. Mitchell, Jacksonville, and Bro. Gardner, Waverly. Elvidge, Litchfield and Brown are still on the non list. You know the remedy. Bro. Chas. Ball, Concord, on a trip to Texas, relieved by Bro. Gardner ; Non Mc- Fadden has gone to Oregon to look after his farm ; Non Miner, Cambon, is not back to work yet. Bro. Larson, Block 104, is moving to Con- cord. Bro. Cooley has resigned as freight in- spector and is back at Waltonville. ‘ Bro Van Velson bid in third there. C. W. McConnell, L. -C. Galesburg Division , Peoria Branch — Sister Pringle, who relieved Bro. Hoskins, second Canton, thirty days, has resigned to attend college. Bro. Watkins, second Farmington, relieved Bro. Oliver on first there ten days, owing to the illness and death of his father at Chester, 111. Bro. Watkins was off several days re- cently. A. A. Oliver. Galesburg Division , Quincy Branch — Bro. Fosdyck, agent Fall Creek, relieved two weeks by Bro. Rose of La Prairie, who also relieved Adams at Avon several days. Bro. W. A. Brown, second Plymouth, sick, relieved by Bro. R. R. Garrison, and Bro. G. S. Herron, agent La Prairie, sick a few days, relieved by Sister Spurgeon. Bro. G. V. Jones spent a few hours In Galesburg between trains recently. Bro. H. McVay was off a few days re- cently. Brothers, if you hear of any news, call me ©n the wire or drop me a line. None re- ceived from the north end. H. L. Thompson, A. L. C., Cert. 958. Q. O. <fr K. C. Division — As no one else is sending In a write-up for this division, I am going to do it myfeelf, and will appreciate It very much If you brothers on the middle and west division will send me any items you think worthy of mention before the 20th of f each month, as they must reach St. Louis by the 25th to appear in the following month's issue of The Telegrapher. Bro. Johnston, agent Nashua, off with whooping! cough, is being relieved by Extra Agent Provorse from Melbourne, and Bro. Baker, Kirksville, off a few days on account of sickness, relieved by Extra Bohon from La Belle. Bro. Rogers, agent Melbourne, attended an uncle’s funeral at Nashua and former station had to be closed one day, as he was unable to secure help. .Bro. Spicer Is relieving Bro. Sprague, agent Stahl, on an indefinite leave. Bro. Harding, agent Knox, under smallpox quarantine, relieved by Extra Harbison, Plattsburg. Brothers, I understand The Telegrapher intends to publish the history of all candi- dates aspiring for offices of national impor- tance. Let us study this closely, and when we vote this coming campaign, forget past political affiliations and east our votes for the men who have been for us. Heretofore we have depended too much on candidates who ,tpromised,t they would be for us. Study the past political record of every one seeking re-election and the personal record of every new one asking for our suffrage, and vote for no one who does not come out clearly and unequivocally for union labor. Let’s hear from you on this subject. C. J. Morrow, Cert. 757. La Crosse Division — Bro. E. W. Dyer resumed Grand Crossing yard days ; Bro. Gibbons to second Nth Jet., vice Bro. Zepp, third East Winona, who relieved Bro. W. F. Cullen several days, later relieving Bro. Stouvenal, third Sa- vanna tower, on sick list, and Bro. Smeltzer, second there. Bro. Foehringer, relieved by Bro. A. W. Paul on third Grand Crossing yard, went to La Crosse relay. Bro. Huth, third Purdy, off a few days on account of the death of his father, relieved by Scholmeier, who later relieved Bro. Mc- Carthy, third Fountain, a few days. Bro. Otis Sands, relieved on Grand Cross- ing depot second by Bro. S. W. Tucheck, bid in Minneapolis, vice Bro. Otto Sands, who relieved Bro. Crawford, first Dayton Bluff yard, two weeks. Bro. Zube is touring the West. Galena agency again restored after nearly two years’ consolidation with I. C. and C. ft Digitized by tjOOQle

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780 The Rvn.RO.vD Telegrapher. N. W., Agent Burns doing his own tele- graphing. Bro. Fitzsimmonds, agent Lynxville, and Bro. E. W. Dyer have purchased new cars. No one sends in any notes, except Bro. White. Cxrt. 227. St. Joe , Missouri Division — Mrs. Dunlap, wife of Bro. E. F. Dunlap, agent Derby, fell recently, breaking one of her ankles, and in a few days Bro. Dunlap took seriously ill and was taken to Roches- ter, Minn., to Mayo Brothers. We wish for his speedy recovery. Bro. W. Li. Ward, Poyne, relieved several nights by Bro. L. T. Barker. Bro. Potter, agent Bartlett, while having a cinder removed from his eye, was relieved by Bro. Pettit, second there, closed until Bro. Potter returned. It is now Bro. A. C. Mor- gan, second Bartlett. Bro. W. L. Wells, Langdon third, visited Hamburg friends recently between trains. Bro. A. Brown, Leon second, is visiting his parents in Hamburg. Bro. T. L. Lips, agent Langdon, relieved by Bro. Shandy while off on account of the death of his brother, Jake, formerly section foreman at Watson. Bro. Whitmore, agent Watson, also off recently. His brother, firing on Chariton branch, leaning too far out of cab of No. 119, was struck by a bridge and killed in- stantly. The brothers have our sympathy. Bro. B. C. Stevens, off on account of ill- ness of his father, was relieved by Bro. C. H. Geveden, recently transferred to this divi- sion from the Grand. Chief Dispatcher Brown is on sick list, relieved by Night Chief French, and he by Extra Dispatcher Ockerman, Bro. Humphrey doing extra dispatching. Work again started on south end. When completed, will give us double track Napier to Kansas City. Bro. Weight, second Corning, off account an operation, relieved by Porter, who promises to join soon. Bro. Rupp is relieving in dispatcher’s office. Boys on Chariton branch, send me some ncws. L. I. Millen, Coin, Iowa. Hannibal Division — Bro. E. T. Martin is relieving Agent Sur- vant, Old Monroe, on sick list. Bro. Hayes, West Alton, is dowrn with rheumatism, relieved by Bro. McKinney. Bro. Guy Zinn is Improving slowly and will soon be able to leave the hospital. Bro. King, Louisiana, is visiting South. Bro. Gist, Canton, who recently went to California, is now ticket seller on Sou. Pac. at Calexico. Bro. L. E. Willimas, Foley, Mo., is trying out a position in Hannibal freight office, re- lieved by Sister M. Trihey. Bros. Chipman and Blankenship, McIn- tosh, are being relieved by Sisters Gist and Brower. Bro. W. F. Lower, formerly third phoner "X,” is now’ salesman for the National Bis- cuit Co. in Illinois territory. C. Mats, L. C. Brookfield Division , Kansas City Branch— Bro. Meranda, third Lathrop, has resumed after two months’ vacation. The station platform there has been rebuilt and the painters are now at work. Keystone will probably be opened up again and be used as a junction for Rock Island trains and double track to Cameron Jet Boys, read your schedule carefully and see that you get all that’s coming to you. The towermen at Lathrop have been taking care of twenty lights over two years without any extra compensation. They never complained to the local chairman or any official. As it was fully covered by the schedule, the matter is being adjusted now, and will make a nice little piece of back pay for them. Don’t for- get “Non” Barber there. He says he would join if the wages were increased to a dollar an hour, and If he had any money to give away he would give it to the poor. He was In just long enough for our local chairmaa to get his back pay and then dropped out Bro. Jones, '‘RA’’ tower, and Bro. McCoim. Santa Fe there, attended an O. R. T. meet- ing in Kansas City, Saturday, May 15th. First Vice-President Brown’s address was well -worth the trip. He made it very clear that we members are to blame for that asm next to us, because we show him too much courtesy. He said if we would close the door on him he would either join or quit. A. E. Jones, Cert 1206. Crest on Division — Bro. Chancelofr, agent Island Park, re- lieved by Bro. Whitlow a few days, account sickness. Bro. Rose, first Pac. Jet., attending Ma- sonic Lodge at St. Joseph, and Bro. L. P. Strohl. attending same order at Omaha, re- lieved by Bro. C. M. Pace, third Malvern, and he by Bro. Dinsmore from Stanton. Bro. Yarbrough, second Glen wood, relieved on his honeymoon by Bro. Ben Kunze, later to Cumberland a few days. Congratulations to the newlyweds. Bro. Oswald, third, and Bro. Poindexter, second Hastings, traded jobs until the latter recovers sufficiently from a recent operation to resume on second. It is now Bro. Sheahan, third Nodaway, just pulled off, leaving him on extra board. No news from the Amazonia, Hastings or Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 781 Red Oak branches. If you boys want a write-up, send me some news. Get that non next to you. J. E. Pace, Cert. 1603. Burlington Division — Second trick man from Lovilia is relieving Gibony, Des Moines, who had a stroke of paralysis. Bro. Oiler, Mendon, was off a week, driving a new car from Detroit. Bro. Smith, agent Packwood, relieved as operator Winfield by our new brother, R. B. Haight. Bro. Wilkie, “BN,” sent me this news. If some of the others will do as well, will have a write-up each month. Boys, don't forget the flower fund and the contribution for the insurance of Bro. Clark. J. P. Frain, Cert. 6. Ottumwa Division — It is time to pay dues for the last half of 1920. Let’s have the same hearty co- operation we had in the first half, when we lost only one delinquent and gained six new members. Keep right after the few nons. There Is no excuse for being a non now. Let's make 'er solid, and when the increase comes we will get our portion. It is now Bros. S. F. Lauger, Whitebreast, and L. A. Knowles, Melrose. Bro. M. I. Kline, Jamison, transferred to McCook Division. Bro. Brown, Lockridge, relieved Bro. O. E. Hutchison, Russell, who was sick several days, relieved by Bro. McDonald, and then went to Osceola agency. Bro. Miller, Maxon, drew Mt. Pleasant freight agency, and Mitchell of Ottumwa got Fairfield agency, vice P. E. Heflin, resigned. Bro. Tribler, former agent Gladstone, now cashier in the bank there, advises that he will continue to carry his card. That is the right spirit. We all wish him success and prosperity. Boys, send me some news so we can have a good write-up. W. C. Harrell, Assistant L. C. Lincoln Division — Bro. W. J. Neville, agent Keene, and Bro. Jay Bruce, third Kenesaw, recently married. Congratulations. Bro. C. J. Plith, David City agent, called, en route to Saronville. Bro. Silvers, on first Suttqp for fifteen years, bid in Saronville agency. Bro. A. A. Canfield, off several nights, having his eyes treated, relieved Bro. Woods, first Fairriiont, a few days, on a trip to Omaha. The wife of Bro. Olexj^ third Exeter tower, quite sick in Lincoln Hospital, is im- proving. It Is now Bro. W. M. Welch, agent Central City. Bro. Fay Chadwick, Holstein, has a new Ford. No news reached me from the high line or any of the branches this month. Send in any news items you ,can and let’s have a write-up every month. Ballots have been received by the mem- bers to express their choice for local chair- man. Didn’t hear of anyone running except Bro. G. E. Plotts, although there may be a “dark horse” in the race. A A. Canfield, Fairmont, Neb. Alliance Division , East End — Bro. Johnson off sick, relieved by Bro. Murray. We learn with regret the sudden death of Bro. Hollenbeck, agent at Pringle. Bro. Bailey goes to third Marsland, and Bros. Kennedy and Potter are back on their old Jobs. Bro. Morgan is on second Brokenbow pend- ing bulletin, vice Bro. Miller in ”J.” Bro. Hughes, agent Seneca, going into the fruit business in California, relieved by Bro. Harkleroad until it was bid in by Bro. Mc- Nall. Bro. Morse relieved Sister Madden, first Seneca, while she was having dental work done, and Bro. Cave relieved Sister Becker, third Thedford, while she was getting mar- ried. Cert. 1666. Alliance Division , West End — Bro. C. D. Williams, Ardmore, is being re- lieved by Operator Hendley. Bro. Harper relieved Bro. Jolly, agent Bel- mont, who went to Sweetwater. Bro. Cox, Just back from the army, relieved Sister Schurr on Belmont second, who relieved Bro. Morgan, Marsland nights, when he went to Broken Bow, later relieved by James, a new man, and wTent back to her regular shift, third Rutland. Sister Jensen bid in third Ardmore, vice Bro. J. L. Young to Ellsworth. Bro. Shields is back on second Ardmore, vice Hendley to Hoffland. Bro. Hobson, Provo second, off several days, owing to illness. Cert. 2578. Sterling Division — It is now Bro. Willis R. Kelly, Scottsbluff, Neb. Bro. D. Kinyon, agent Minatare. Is visiting in California, relieved on bid by Bro. Potter. Heavy rains and washouts May 11th caused all Alliance Division trains to be de- toured via Guernsey Line, and placing an embargo on all business west of Alliance and west of Fannie via Casper. Brothers, if there is a delinquent working with or near you, do not give him any rest until he pays his dues. Get after that one Digitized by Google

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782 The Railroad Telegrapher. on the High Line as soon as he returns to work. Bro. Niekum, Bayard, Neb., was the only one who sent me any items this month. We could have a nice write-up if you would all get this habit. If I am able to get, relieved this month, I will try to get over as much of the division and see all of the boys possible, for we can talk better than write, and may not have a write-up in next Journal. Bro. Crees got his rights and is now at Dalton, which we are all glad to see. Some of the brothers have not donated to the flower fund yet. F. A. Sense, L. C., Cert. 43. Chesapeake & Ohio R. R., Div. 40. C. & O. of Indiana Division — On May 11th. about 8 :00 p. m., Bro. Lamb- din, Converse, was found dead on the com- pany's property near the depot there by Engineer Hammond. This came as a great shock to all who enjoyed the pleasure of Bro. Jack’s acquaintance. A contribution was taken up among the railway employes and about two hundred dollars has already been given to the stricken family. For this and the beautiful O. R. T. wreath so kindly donated for the funeral, Mrs. Lambdin and children desire to express their grateful thanks, in which the writer joins to each contributor to this worthy fund. We all miss Bro. “Jack.” His win- ning manners will not be forgotten, and we all extend our heartfelt sympathy to the be- reaved family. Retarding of business, owing to the switchmen’s strike, caused several offices to be temporarily closed that it is now being arranged to reopen. A shortage of operators is expected with tho summer months at hand and numerous requests for vacations. Bro. Long, loaned to the C. I. & W., is at Cottage Grove. Bro. Engle, Merrillville, advised by his physician to go to different climate for awrhile, anticipates locating in New Mexico. We hope he will soon be able to return. Bro. Allison of Converse is taking a trip through Western States. We congratulate President Manion for the able and thorough manner in which he pre- sented the plea before the Bipartisan Board in our behalf and that of the station agents and agent-telegraphers. We shall all get behind Bro. Manion now and help him in every possible manner to secure this award for us. E. E. Middlekauf, Chairman. Boston and Maine R. R., Div. 41. Bro. Chester R. King, for many years sta- tion agent at Passumpsic, Vt., widely known and well beloved by' many railroad men, died on April 28th at his home in Passumpsic, Vt. Born in Vermont, through his fifty years of life he held fast and true, in his own charac- ter, to the best traditions of that sturdy New England state. A charter member of the O. R. T., local, chairman of his division for the fifteen years and a member of the General Committee preceding his death, he was well known throughout the organization, having attended a number of the biennial conventions. His many friends bear testi- mony to his sterling character and to the fact that he was well liked by employees, officials and the public. Although conscientious In the discharge of his official duties, he was always a true and loyal citizen. At his home in Passumpsic Brother King, with his wife and four daugh- ters who survive him, lived happily for many years. Railroad men from far and near, as well ns many friends in other walks of Ufd and townspeople, bore silent tribute by their pres- ence at his funeral to their respect and af- fection for him. The local Masonic Lodge conducted the funeral services. The bereaved relatives have the sympathy of all. A private telephone switchboard has re- cently been Installed in the Transportation and Purchasing Agent departments, reliev- ing the main telephone exchange of distrib- uting the calls for these departments. To further relieve the B. & M. main exchange of thousands of telephone calls a day the Information Bureau located in the North Station has been directly connected with the Hay market exchange of the New Eng- land Telephone Co. Now that the Massachusetts daylight sav- ing law is in effect, the old time-worn joke : •What time does the one o’clock train go.” ceases to be a joke, with the railroads still timing their trains by Standard time, and the public’s timepieces timed one hour late. Agents, operators, in fact all employees, are being swamped with questions from the be- wildered public, trying to find out when the 5 :15 will leave. Fitchburg Division — Sister Carter of Athol, Mass., is the first woman to be admited to membership in the New England Association of Railroad Veterans, having 45 years' continuous serv- ice with the B. & M. and still working at the key. Terminal Division — Selah Eustace Carpenter, always known as “Sam,” died at his home in Strafford, Vt. after an illness caused by paralysis that ex- tended nearly two years. He was employed as a towerman at Tower *'B,” Term. Div. On account of Illness he was prevented from becoming a member of Div. No. 41 ; never- theless we ^elt that he was a brother In spirit. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 783 Bro. Harvey G. Grofe, Boyertown, Penn., Is collecting specimens of operators’ hand- writing. Please drop him a line In order that he may have a copy of your fist for his log. “Correction" — In April issue of The Teleg- rapher the following item should have read “Bro. P. J. McKenna relieving Bro. L. Mc- Carthy in ‘GM’ on account of his father's death." Trust Bro. McCarthy will pardon the error. No news from the North Country. Where is Bro. Belanger this month? S. Goodwin, Cert. 406, “VN," “GM." Interlocking Notea — Bro. Bradt, relief towerman working sec- ond Sheetman, Tower “B." Bro. Pine post- ing on the levers there. Bro. Horn, Medford Jet., on six months’ leave. Is going to Los Angeles. Bro. Lecuyier, second Barber tower, also on six months’ leave. Position posted tem- porarily. Bro. Stanton, first Winchester, also posted May 17th, as Bro. Stanton wants to take his annual vacation. Bro. Hyland, relieved by Relief Towerman Jim Syerman on second Newburyport tower, Is now' a regular dispatcher in "BM." Chester Langill, posted Tower "C" a few days, and is now director second Tower "F" with Ben Williams, leverman. Bro. McKenna, sheetman Tower “A" and “B." is on an extended trip to Canada. Bro. Scott, covering temporarily second at Tower “H." Bro. Mahoney, letter carrier in Somerville, occasionally fills in at Washington St. Jet. and Wrest Cambridge. He carries an up-to- date card. Why not others who have worked for years in the towfer service? Bro. Wyatt, who bid in second leverman (So. Div.) Tower "A," is relieving Bro. Libby, second trick director Towrer “B,” on sick leave. Bro. Harrington, third Tower "H," has been on sick leave since March. Bro. Harty relieving. Charlie Ayer is second trick director. Tower "D," temporarily. Bro. Weldon, first director there, is on vacation. Frank Brown, the veteran relief man, posted Northampton tower. A trip to “NO" can hardly be called a junket. Interest In “Labor," the weekly published in Washington and devoted to the welfare of the railroad men and labor in general, is increasing. A year’s subscription to it is a dollar well spent. An advertisement which has been appear- ing In the Boston dailies for considerable time asks for “Brakemen and Switchmen. Seven dollars a day, free board, open shop conditions." It provides an opportunity ( ?) to work for the New Haven in the Harlem River yards. The Western Union desires young women for “positions offering good advancement, hours, 3 :30 p. m. to 12 midnight, at $69 per month to start," in Boston. Bro. Landsberg, first Everett Jet., expects to be away as usual during the months of July and August. Towrer “B" second trick leverman (South end) permanent, bulletined May 15th. Everyone Is anxiously awaiting the deci- sion of the Railroad Labor Board upon the raise of pay and changes in working condi- tions requested by our organization. The speech of Senator Walsh of Massa- chusetts, delivered in the National Senate May 18th, upon the subject of profiteering, adds lustre to his already well-known repu- tation as a champion of the rights of wage earners. Hope the voters will send Congress- men to Washington in November who will enact progressive! legislation favorable to labor and the public at large. The railroads of our country are function- ing wonderfully under private control. We are witnessing visible evidences of the break- ing down everywhere of the service which the railroads normally perform. Those who are advocates of something along the order of the Plum|b Plan League as regards rail- road ownership and control may see their plan of railroad management become a reality much before they dared hope to realize. If the roadbeds of the New England rail roads continue long to receive the same scanty attention given them the last few months due to the section men quitting the service for remunerative work elsewhere, it will be as hazardous to ride upon the trains in this district as it was on the “petit chemin de fer” operated by the Fourteenth Engineers in France. “Si," Cert. 1519. Interlocking NoteSj Berkshire Division — Towerman E. M. Welch is back at Peters- burg Jet. after being away most of the winter owing to his father’s and brother’s illness. Bro. A. J. Losaw, committeeman for the Berkshire and Fitchburg divisions lowermen, has made a trip taking in most 1 me towers on his territory and rounded up most of the nons in the tow'er service. Bro. L. R. Center, Johnsonville, N. Y., tower, has just returned from a trip through Canada. Bro. Losaw moved up to first and Bro. Hunt, spare towerman, covered second while Bro. Center was away. Bro. J. O. Mosseau, towerman Crescent, was relieved a few days by Bro. W. G. Hunt, who also relieved Bro. Ogden there several days on account of sicK1^88* Cert. 1491. Digitized by tjOOQle

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784 The Railroad Telegrapher. Erie Railroad, Div. 42. Susquehanna Division — Bro. Bridge and myself recently had a conference with Mr. Eckels in New York, in regard to compensation for the agents and operators who were laid off during the yard- men’s walkout. Will advise all affected as soon as we receive his decision. A special meeting was held in the new Lodge rooms at Paterson, May 8th, with a good attend- ance, to take action on this matter, where we had the pleasure of being addressed by Vice-President Ross. Just as soon as he closes up some work on schedule matters we will endeavor to have some meetings along the line, In order that our members can meet and get acquainted with him. General Chairman McNeil of the Penna & Reading also addressed us at this Paterson meeting, which was very much appreciated. He is building up a real live organization on the P. & R. I was unable to get to New York as soon as I had intended to take up this matter of our agents and operators being laid off during that walkout (our road being the only one that took such action), but owing to serious illness in my family I was unable to do so ; however, we could not have secured the conference we had with Mr. Eckels at that time as he was then busy night and day owing to the tieup. It is with much regret that I announce the deaths of Bro. Henry Hoffman of Orange, N. J., Bro. R. J. Smith of Marion, Ohio, and the wife of Bro. A. W. Barkalow of Addlson> Our sincere sympathy is extended to their families. Bro. Coleman, second Waverly, has fallen off the wagon again, but gives no reason therefor. Bro. S. L. Jackson and Bro. O’Hearn, su- perintendent's office, and Bro. Bonaldson "V” bid in tricks in the Regional office at Hornell ; Bro. L. P. Dean, superintendent’s office, bid in first there ; Bro. C. H. Webber bid in •*FD” days and Bro. Bowen from *‘AQ” third Canisteo. Brothers, don’t forget our regular meet- ings, 143 Water street, third floor (in our new hall recently redecorated and finely equipped), the first Thursday of each month, at 10 :30 a. m. and 4 and 7 :30 p. m. The P. R. R. always has a good bunch out. We should also, in order to keep posted on what is being done. E. J. Hesser, Gen. Chmn. Mahoning Division — At this writing Bro. M. G. Donaldson, late agent and operator at Mahoning, O., is seri- ously ill with little hope for his recovery. Business is rather light on this division ow- ing to labor troubles. Extra operators and extra agents scarce. Many changes among operators and levermen. The New Castle consolidated agency has been dissolved and J. H. Carroll, formerly agent at Lisbon, O., is now the Erie agent J. W. Gardner, late relief agent, succeeding him at Lisbon. Sharpsville, Hubbard, Girard and Solon agencies still consolidated with prospects of an early transfer back to the Erie. We still have a number of nons on this divisidn, and no doubt many of them would come into the Order if approached on this subject. It is hard for me to get off duty for more than a day or two at a time and very few men could be visited in that short period. Most of these men are located west of Youngstown. I wish the brothers in that territory would get busy and make a faith- ful effort to secure new members. I have application blanks for the asking. Most of the states have held their spring primary election, and I trust that every brother voted for the man favorable to the labor cause. Don’t fail to go to the poiti in November. Look up the record of the man seeking re-election, and if he voted on the side of capital, do your bit to defeat him. Look up the new candidate's record in his home town and district and If it’s shaky, pass him up ; take no chances, and don’t be afraid to tell him why you do so if you meet him during his canvass. It’s about time that the wage earners demon- strate the power of united actlop. J. C. O'Neill, Chairman. Canadian National Rys., Div. 43. Pacific Division — Bro. Fraser has returned to Lucerne much improved in health, we are glad to learn. Bro. Baird bid in work train operator’s job there, relieved at Entrance by De Lauter a new man with a good war record. Bro. F. R. Wilbourn, lineman, is back at Lucerne from his holidays in Vancouver. Sorry to hear that Lineman Bro. McLean got such a shaking up when thrown off his motor car by striking a rock. A new position has been created on Port- man stub; Plumm, a new man, is there pending bids; also at Albreda, with Middle- miss, a new man, on it until bid in. Bro. Nichols, the other operator there, has to ask the dispatcher for an hour off nearly every night, to hunt his cow. Bro. Squibb, agent Birch Island, is back with us again. Bro. Bon Kee bid in second there, and Bro. Pickering bid In Chuchua. re- lieving “A’on” Ryan, the man willing to meet two trains every night for a year, without pay. He has reaped a great deal of benefit ’from the O. R. T., but still claims it is of no use to him. Remember, boys : “No Card , No Favors ” We are sorry to hear that Bra McLeod at Ashcroft is on the sick list again. Bro. Jarvis, Blue River, is also sick, relieved by O'Brien, another new man. Bro. McCarthy. Digitized by L-ooQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 785 sick nearly all winter, is much better and has been elected president of the improve- ment society at Avola. Dispatcher Bro. Francisco, the first to take his vacation, is at the lakes and will no doubt keep the rest fed up with fish for a month and with fish stories for eleven months more. Bro. Dispatcher Robinson and Bro. Agent Robillard, Kamloops Jet., have donned overalls, and the rest of us will have to do likewise if the company don’t soon see our committee and grant us a raise of pay. Bro. Thompson spent a few days re- cently in Kamloops but no one saw him but the stenographers and timekeepers. From latest reports he should return there soon again, with another pocket full of candy. Cert. 865. • Pacific Great Eastern Division — The schedule which your committee negoti- ated with the management of the Pacific Great Eastern Railway was successfully executed and put in force January 1, 1920. The numerous delays in getting it signed up were due to causes over which your com- mittee had no control, but with patience and persistency, kept the big thing to the fore and have had the satisfaction of seeing it brought to a successful conclusion. This, however, brothers, does not mean that we can sit down and contemplate with complacency our improved conditions and privileges. We have started something which you and I cannot finish, because it is a progressive business which others must carry on ; having entered into this agreement with the management of the Pacific Great Eastern Railway Company, we must live up to its provisions, giving a service the standard of which will leave no room for complaint. While we have not yet secured all we hoped for, we have an initial schedule that will compare most favorably with any on the North American Continent ; whether we im- prove it from time to time by revision rests with you ; to do so requires that you be alive to your own interests ; don’t expect your general or local chairman to do all your thinking for you. It requires that you keep “up-to-date” in your organization and take steps to win any “Non” into the fold who comes into the service, not forgetting our slogan : “No Card / No Favors *' We have as fine a bunch of officials as one could wish to work with, but they are just men like ourselves and are sitting on the other side of the table. Play the game square so that when the time for revision and changes come, we will be found worthy of them. Bro. A. M. Young, agent at Squamish, has been appointed your division correspondent, and it will be expected that items of inter- est will be mailed to him, so we may ap- pear Id Thi Telegrapher occasionally and acquaint the rest of the folks with what we are doing on this part of the globe. Chief Dispatcher Graham, Squamish ter- minals, operates a chicken ranch during his spare time. His dual capacity of chief dis- patcher and trainmaster prevent him from carrying a card ; however, he is a “Square- shooter” and has never failed to do his best for us. Brother C. B. Ingerham, our third trick man, can do many things as. well as handle a train sheet. Bro. W. E. Roberts, from the Canadian National, completes the bunch of train de- tainers on the Squamish Division. He got tired of the flat land and wanted to see what a tree looked like. Welcome to our railroad, "Teddy.” W. H. Mortlock, late of the Kettle Valley, oar latest asset as a lineman, will no doubt be Bro. Mortlock when he gets another cheque. Bro. A. M. Young is our agent at Squamish. Bro. H. B. Chaffee, an old-timer at Pem- berton, is having the time of his life among the dark Scotch and keeping the mosquitoes away. Bro. R. B. Sparkman has been at Lillooet Station a long time growing potatoes and garden truck in the banana belt of British Columbia. Bro. G. C. Sedgsworth, on the “Owl” trick there, Is our chief utility man. Bro. F. A. Leyfleld, Clinton, is about to leave us for the Great Northern. Jno. Kerr, a new man at Lone Butte, has requested application blanks. W. J. Ward, agent Chasm, likewise a new man, we hope will be with us shortly. Bro. F. S. Hutchinson, Williams Lake ter- minals, with red hair and blue eyes, is in- tensely popular with the ladles. He can't help that and wre all envy him. The tw*o busiest people on the pike are located at North Vancouver on the North Shore Division. This fourteen miles of track provides transportation for thousands of people whose summer houses are distributed Its entire length to the terminus at Whyt- cliffe, where an agent is located for the sum- mer season. Brothers E. G. Gibbon and Henry Buckley, agents at North Vancouver, shove out the “pasteboards” and information to the pleasure seekers. With the road still under construction there will be many changes. The men who can deliver the goods will remain and the drones will be eliminated. Keep posted on current events ; keep your work up and your reports in shape ; if you are overworked take the matter up through the proper chan- nels for assistance. I will do my best for you and solicit your intelligent support R. B. Sparkman, Local Chairman, Cert. 187. Digitized by Googk

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786 Tiie Railroad Telegrapher. Central R. R. of New Jersey* Dlv. 45. AT. J. Sou. Division — The general office of this division, located at East Long Branch, has been repaired and painted and the dispatchers who were at Long Branch while under government control are back there again. S. D. Layer Is chief, Bro. V. E. Peterson has first, Bro. Wallace W. Bozarth, split ; Bro. A, E. Fisher, second trick ; W. F. Spencer, third ; Bro. C. T. Edwards, relief dispatcher, and Bro. W. A. Tilton, Jr., extra dispatcher. Bro. A. E. Fisher of Long Branch, N. J., is now general chairman of the A. T. D. A. for the C. It. R. of N. J. Congratulations from the N. J. S. boys. We are very sorry to announce the death of Bro. Samuel L. Bennett, freight agent. Freehold, N. J., who entered the service of C. R. R. of N. J. October 1, 1883, and held that position 37 years. Ho was loved by all the officials as well as his fellow em- ployees and will be greatly missed. The O. R. T. members, the officials and other em- ployees sent a beautiful wreath in memory of the deceased brother and the members extend their heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. Bro. Q. W. Sloan, second Lakehurst, has taken up farming. We all wish him success. Brothers, answer your calls promptly; It takes no more time than later, saves the time of dispatchers and delays to other im- portant work, making more efficient service. Bro. F. J. Dugan of Marlboro, N. J., has successfully passed his book of rules and Is now ready to bid on any position on the division. Bro. Frawley, Brodevelt, is quite a regular Sunday caller at Red Bank. We don’t blame him. Bro. Shea is back at Wickatunk again this season and Bro. T. J. Brehm opened Atlantic Highlands Pier, relieved by Bro. Jos. Martinelly on second Beach street at Red Bank. The “Old Timers" and the “New Comers" of Supt. Zartman's office. East Long Branch, played a close game on Sea View Avenue baseball grounds Saturday, April 24th, the latter winning. 18 to 17. It was a very in- teresting battle between Coughlan, on the mound for the “Old Timers," and Cogan. of the “New Comers." The former outhit the latter, showing that they still had their batting eye, and, the game was not decided until the last inning. Supt. Zartman’s office force has challenged Supt. Berry's a three game series for the Railroad Championship. The reception tendered to Supt. Zartman. May 6th, at the Armory af Bridgeton, N. ,J.. brought together in a most interesting and enthusiastic meeting, nearly four hundred employees of the Southern Division, ship- pers and officers of the company, including President Bessler, General Supt. Meredith. Passenger Traffic Supt. Hope, and of course Supt. Zartman, whom all the men and ship- pers were delighted to honor. As was expressed by President Bessler and other officials of the road, it is doubtful ir in the history of railroading in this country there has ever been a meeting of this charac- ter where officials of a great railroad system, the employees and others have gathered to- gether in a big boost for the service, and to pay tribute to a man prominent In the affairs of the corporation. A special train brought large numbers from all along the line, from Red Bank south. The reception was to the popular superintendent, who was drafted in- to the government service when war was declared and for two years was separated from the concern he has managed and the loyal jnenewith whom he has successfully worked. President Bessler took charge of the meet- ing and made an excellent address In which he paid high tribute to the men of the Southern Division, indicating that their loy- alty during the recent labor trouble showed their fidelity to the interests of the com- pany, and that much of the success of the road was due to them. He explained the central plan recently developed, which will provide an effective organisation of the em- ployees to adjust with the officers of the company every problem that may arise re- garding working conditions and wages, with- out being obliged to carry such matters to the government railroad board established by the new railroad bill. This spontaneous meeting and reception was in charge of Station Agent Bro. Charles Broadwater of Bridgeton, Charles Jordan and William ThumblerL A handsome basket of roses was presented to Supt. Zartman. N. J. S. boys, send your notes to J. O. Hoad ley, 1141 Hancock street, Brooklyn, N. Y.. or to “JC," Telegraph office, Jersey City, where the correspondent is located, who will be very glad to get items from any of the divisions as the boys like to see any notes of interest from the different divisions in The Telegrapher. I have given most of my time for this issue to get notes fpr the N. J S. and hope you boys will do me the favor to send in the happenings from your dif- ferent localities. Central Division — Bro. k Howard Drinkwater. third Westfield Tower, was off sick a few days recently. Bro. Conover, third Whitehouse Tower, skk for a month, is convalescing. Bro. Lawrence, second Lanes Crossing Tower, while off a few days recently moved from Lebanon to Somerville in order to rest up the Hampton pushers. Bro. Lem Alpaugh, an old-timer on this road, has returned from Denver, Cola, and Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 787 other western cities and is now relieving on third Bound Brook Junction. Bro. Renlgar, first High Bridge, was off several days recently. Bro. P. E. Wilson, from the New York Central, is now back again on second Port Heading. Bro. Conover, first White House, was visiting around Easton, Pa., recently. Men continually leaving the service here to engage in other business for more money, with Sundays, off, are creating a number of vacancies, which are hard to fill. Bro. McGovern, first Tower One El-Port, reported recovering from his recent illness, will soon be able to resume duty. Bro, Lavell, second Tower Two E-Port, who has not fully recovered from an attack of the "flu'’ last winter, off recently taking in mountain air at White Haven, is now on second "NA” Newark. Bro. Barry, first Broadway Tower, has been visiting New York quite often lately. Must be some attraction. Bro. Severn, first Singers Tower, is think- ing of investing in a farm over on Long Island. Bro. Tom Farrell and his club gave a blowout this month at the Highlands and will keep the boys posted when such things turn up hereafter. “EC,” Cert. 33. St. Louis Terminal R. R., Div. 47. Our meeting dates have been changed to Tuesday night, 7 :30 p. m., and Wednesday morning, £ :30 a. m. These sessions should be attended regularly by every member as there is important business coming up to be handled all the time. Bro. Jackson, 4UD,” was married recently. Congratulations. It is now Bro. Hogue, ex- tra there. Bro. John Smith, assistant chief “UD,” was off several days recently owing to illness. Bro. H. F. Alexander, Tower One, is visiting relatives in Kentucky while off on account of his health. Bro. M. S. Pebbles, “Q,” has resigned and gone to San Francisco. Bro. G. D. Black, first there, is visiting relatives in Southern Illinois. Second there and first Leverman “W,” new positions, are up for bids. There were no bids on second “W” and some new men are breaking In there. Brothers, when tliese new men come on the division ascer- tain at once if they are up-to-date, If not advise our chairman and get busy trying to line them up. Remember our slogan : “No card, no favors*1 Bro. Swaboda, first Tel. *'SH,“ visited re- cently in Springfield Sunday. Bro. Goodell, Sou Crossing, went to “SH“ Tel. third ; Bro. Stanhope, second “Q” Tel., to third “WA“ levers on bid, vice Bro. McDonald to first ‘•MY." Cbrt. 7. Denver & Rio Grande R. R., Div. 49. First Division — Mrs. Moore, age 80, mother of Bro. F. W. Moore, manager in “SB” office, passed away May 5th, burled at Pueblo, Colo. Death caused by old age. Bro. Moore has the sym- pathy of Division 49. Bro. H. F. Phillips bid in sixth and Bro. F. W. McDlvitt fifth “SB.” Through a misunderstanding Bro. Andy Anderson reverted to extra list, but he has his eyes on Rouse Junction and the extra calls there. That agency telephone Job is up for bids. Bro. R. A. Clark bid In Texas Creek third, vice Bro. P. Kyle, resigned ; Bro. Geo. Thompson, relief agent for the past year, bid in agent and telephone Concrete, and *Bro. G. P. Andrews bid in Denver Yard. Very few attended the meeting at Pueblo, May 16th. Those who could have come and didn't missed a treat. *We called to order at 8 p. m. and adjourned at 11 :30 p. m. Sev- eral important matters were passed upon. Minutes will be read at next meeting. Be sure and come. From now on we will have a meeting every third Sunday In the month at Fisher’s Hall, Pueblo, unless otherwise advised. Div. Cor. Fourth Division — Items mailed In April, being In snow block- ade, were too late for the May issue. Bro. Richards, “DG” Durango, called to California owing to the serious illness of his father, was relieved by Bro. Schomberg. who later relieved Bro. Shiles. agent Pagosa Springs, when called East on account of the serious Illness of a sister. Bro. Gilbert relieved Bro. Ogle Monero, who went to third Chama. Williamson from the C. & S. on Chama second. Bro. Rodgers, agent Pagosa Junction, who bid in second Pagosa Junction, succeeded by Bro. J. D. Voltz, Monero agency. Bro. I. N. Selph, agent La Madera, off sixty days looking over prospects on New Mexico Central. Osier taken off Bro. LeDain, visiting in Antonito. Sister Jacks relieved a few dayai by Bro. Matthews from the U. P. Bro. Nichols, Lumberton, relieved a few days by Bro. Gilbert from Chama while buying a new car. Bro. Compton, on a trip in this territory posting some of the men, attended clerks’ meeting in Durango and visited Alamosa and Chama. Cbrt. 219. Southern Pacific Ry., Div. 53. Los Angeles Division — Newhall was the scene of great activity on Sunday, April 25th, when about sixty peo- ple, including telegraphers, families and Digitized by Google

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788 The Railroad Telegrapher. friends gathered there for a day's outing. Shortly after 10 a. m. autos begun to arrive at Bro. Coyle’s home %nd after the major number had arrived they drove to Happy Valley, about two miles distant over a wind* ing and scenic road, assembling under a large live oak tree, that with many others grace this beautiful valley. The cars were parked under neighboring trees, baskets un- loaded and a period of get acquainted en- sued, after which the baskets were unbur- doned of their cargo and an inviting lunch* was served consisting of (censored on ac- count of the world-wide paper shortage), and doughnuts. Nineteen men made the cof- fee, and double the number could not have done better. The afternoon sped rapidly by in pleasant conversation, shop talk and plans for a fu- • ture outing. Two splendid readings were given by Mrs. Shawley of Los Angeles. Mary Jane Burroughs £lso gave a little read- ing called "My Rheumatlz." The brothers present, most all accompanied by members of their families, were : Dickinson, Dort Kindlg, Coyle, Farwell, Cambridge, Brun- ner, Williams, Foster, Hickman, Riley, Chaf- fee, Phegley, Blake, Fridell, Roach, Rum- sey, Thedaker, GifTord, G. L. and E. R. Har- ker. Burroughs, Mesrs. Wood, Caldwell and Sawyer, also Miss Chaffee, Miss Fall and Mrs. Shawley and daughter. Local Chairman Meador, being at Niland, expressed his regrets at his inability to be with us, and probably many 'others did not learn of the picnic in time to be present. Bro. Coyle was the only one of the party holding an honor emblem for 25 years con- tinuous membership. Bro. Preston of the Portland Division, who relieved Bro. Phegley as acting agent Bur- bank, resigned shortly thereafter to accept a much better position with a private com- pany. Bro. G. W. Taylor, agent Los Alamltos, sent to General Hospital, San Francisco, for eye treatment, has made a brave struggle for a long time and we hope his stay there will be successful. Bro. Haworth, third Chatsworth, Is also in the hospital for eye treatment. If you pay $1.00 a month for a daily pa- per that offers you nothing but sensational matter, wouldn’t it be consistent to Join the Plumb Plan League and get the liveliest lit- tle labor weekly in the U. S. A., all for $1.00 a year? Address Machinists Building, Washington, D. C. Bro. Shorrocks, on sick list, relieved by Bro. B. C. Moore, "NG" Los Angeles, who later relieved Bro. Misner at Zelzah on ac- count of sickness. Bro. H. V. Foster worked one day at "NG” and then went up to "HU” general office, relieved by Bro. Clack, re- lieved at Calexico by Bro. Davis, a new man, who when asked to go to Aras Junction quit and secured private employment with Sundays and holidays off and better pay. Bro. Johnson, from the Stockton Division, relieved Bro. Youngblood a few days at Aras Junction. Bro. Dickinson, manager Los Angeles, has in addition to his supervisory and other work the duty of introducing new men to the switch board with its many complexities Many can send and receive code and are first class operators, but generally faint at the sight of a four-strap switch board. Bro. Clavio, who bid into the general office, was relieved on second Palm Springs by Bro. F. S. Moore, new man, relieved on Indio fifth by Bro. Joyce, transferred from Tucson Division owing to the rigors of the desert. Bro. B. C. Moore relieved Bro. Min- gledorff, agent Puente, a short time. It is reported that back pay was received around Omaha about April 1st, but since everyone out here is rated in Bradstreets it doesn't matter if we ever receive it. Bro. Hooper, first Pomona, to Coachella extra, is paid up until 1921. Bros. Williams, from Duarte, and Harker, from Chatsworth. are at Thermal owing to the onion move- ment. Bro. McBay, fourth Colton, has taken his initial step in the Masonic Order. Bro. Keyes, "NG” Los Angeles, has made several sales of sending machines lately and keeps a number of various kinds on hand to fulfill demands. Bro. Dort and family and the writer and family spent Sunday recently with Bro. and Mrs. Dickinson in their new home on Chad- wick Drive, Los Angeles. If every member paid a year’s dues in- stead of six months the postage saved to aU concerned would alone amount to over five thousand dollars a year. Pay a year in ad- vance and give your conscience a little vacation. Cut. 704. Stockton District — N Interpretation No. 8 to Supplement No. 13 to General Order No. 27 has finally been thrashed out with the management, time rolls of this division checked and new rates of pay figured out While this interpreta- tion makes a large variation in pay at dif- ferent offices for the same kind of work, those who received little or no raise should be patient, as it Is undoubtedly to the rail- road’s interest that these differences be smoothed out Bro. Cull will take up the adjusting of the pay with the company at the first opportune moment While this is being done we should all "sit tight” and be sure that all dues are paid promptly. Per* sonally I received the munificent sum of one- half cent per hour increase on this inter* pretation, but I expect to get the other sere* cents shortly. Those who fared no better Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 789 have my sympathy with sugar at 25 cents and spuds at ten. Bro. F. S. Whitson, seniority Dec. 10, 1912, Tucson Division, holding position fourteen in "BD" general office, San Francisco, wish- es to trade with a Stockton Division mem- ber. Anyone interested address him care E. L. King, superintendent telegraph, S. P. Bldg., San Francisco, Calif. Bro. G. E. Surryhne, Modesto, Calif., seniority July 27, 1917, second Modesto, one of the best second tricks on the division, wishes to trade with some member on the Coast or Western Divisions owing to poor health. Anyone interested address him care S. P. ticket office, Modesto, Calif. Bro. Hanlon will be glad to furnish the members with a list of the firms in Stockton who are unfair to union labor. Union men should avoid trading with them under all circumstances. __ . Martin on Modesto third a month resigned and went back to Indiana. Claimed he dis- liked the treatment he received. Williamson, second Manteca, is still on the non list. Hope Bro. Welsh can line him up. The new agent, Mr. McMillan, at Modesto promised the boys at Los Banos several months ago that he would line up shortly. Get busy on him also. Bro. Cooley, agent Volta, who went to Los Angeles recently to look into the broker Jobs, says these boys are not getting any too much money for the work, and the cost of living is so high that he prefers to stay at Volta and see if the company won’t ad- just the salary there in accordance with other stations of same class after applying Interpretation No. 13. It's now Bro. Henion at Los Banos. I. R. Johnson, third there, has resigned and gone to "greener fields." Bro. Perkins says the help problem at Dos Palos is the limit. Is going to look for a softer job. Bro. Firfk, agent Newman, took a trip to Los Angeles recently. Asked Bro. Richards on third here to send me some news. All the brothers say : "Noth- ing here, ask Oldendorff," who says, "Why pick on me?" Bro. Richards says: "All that we ‘ginks’ on this side see is a couple of owls and a million sheep, so where do you suppose I’m going to get my news?" "DF," Cert. 624. Sacramento Division — Bro. W. C. Johnson , agent Emigrant Gap, suddenly called back to his old home in Kan- sas on account of the serious Illness of his aged parents, was relieved by Bro. N. G. Jones. Bro. Shields is relieving the agent at Biggs and W. L. Mason relieved Bro. Stone, agent Soda Springs, who accepted a position in San Francisco. Sister Stone, Soda Springs, is being relieved by Mrs. Owent, and Miss Knox, third there, recently married, relieved by L. D. Harford. Mrs. Sheets is relieving Mrs. Helen Belden at Eder for a month. We sincerely regret to chronicle the fact that Bro. Duescher, at Rochelle, 111., slowly recovering from a serious operation, lost his devoted wife of pneumonia fever on May 2nd. Bro. Dueschers, long illness has left him out of funds. Upon learning the sad news the members of this division imme- diately wired him $165.00. Bro. Allen of Troy, his brother-in-law, has sent us word that he is most grateful for this kindness shown him in his hour of need. Mrs. Dueschers’ body was shipped to Oakland, where It was cremated as per, her expressed desire. The recent salary raised of liberal propor- tions is greatly appreciated by all as an- other evidence of the untiring efforts of our committees* and a signal victory for union- ism. This should be a great incentive for renewed efforts towards making our division 100 per cent strong, which we must and will do. Wires are being strung from Sacramento to. Sparks for the new dispatcher’s telega- phone, an inovation for many old-timers, so long accustome*d to straight wire work. It seems to be a success on the Shasta Division and Coast lines, where it has been used several years. Bro. A. H. Fisher, stafT operator at Spruce, fe relieving Bro. Gall McNett at Summit Bro. Koons, first Troy, taking in some of the delightful sunshine down in the valley countries and incidentally visiting old-time friends, is being relieved by Burns, a new man. Sister Allen, of Tamarack, Is visiting old friends in Sacramento. Sister Mason of Gunter, visiting in Oak- land, is being relieved by Sister Sumpter. Bro. H. A. Rodrian, second Midas, and wife are patronizing the Dentists at Sacra- mento, relieved by Bro. Wollen. Sister Mary Mott, second Gunter, has re- signed and married Conductor Jay Sackett. We all extend congratulations and sincere good wishes to our loyal sister. The automobile in which Sister Edna Aske was returning from Los Angejes turned over near Sacramento. The injuries she sus- tained caused her detention in a Sacramento hospital several days. She is now back on third Fulda wearing her proverbial smile. Bro. McAdow, third Truckee, is being re- lieved by Bro. G. S. Cessna, recently returned to this division from the Postal at Oakland. Bro. Wiese, second trick dispatcher at Sacramento, is matching his wits against the wary trout in the streams around Red Bluff, Digitized by VsOOQle

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790 The Railroad Telegrapher. Calif., incidentally looking1 after business in that section. Bro. C. D. Wollen is relieving the first trick man at Woodland. E. T. Nickel, Cert 1216, Truckee, Cal. San Joaquin District — P. G. Pulton, Bakersfield, and Donald An- drews, Porterville, dropped for non-payment of dues last half of 1919. H. G. Findlay and O. C. Lehmer on non list also W. J. Lewis, now at Exeter, but latter will soon be reinstated. Brothers working near these men give the local chairman any informa- tion that will help him to get them to cpme in to Division 63. Also advise him of any members who belong to other divisions so they can be transferred. Division officials checking our back time awarded us in this last settlement with the company to arrive at the proper rate were found by the local chairman calling at Bakersfield not considering anything but Sunday and holiday service and ignoring all other overtime. The general chairman has had it adjusted. Those entitled to time lost in transferring should take it up with the superintendent at once and it will be taken care of as soon as the officials can get to it. Put It in or you will lose out as they will not check your rec- ords for it. The claims filed with the local chairman will be taken care of. The “strike" petition put out on this divi- sion over the typewritten signature of the local chairman intended for a Joke is to be regretted. The party admitted his guilt and through the goodness of the local chairman the matter has been allowed to drop, nothing serious having occurred therefrom. The general manager now advises he can- not sign up our new agreement until Sep- tember. Sit tight and “don’t rock the boat.” My usual letter asking for notes and con- taining a stamped addressed envelope went forward the first of the month, but up to the 11th had not heard a word from any of the brothers. Bro. Love, from Rowen, relieved Bro. Huntsman at Rosamond, who relieved Bro. Markas at Proctor, who bid in Caliente. Bro. Trumbo's wife, who went to Ken- tucky owing to the illness of a relative, has returned. Bro. E. Hughes _ relieved Bro. P. S. Trickey, sixth Mojave, who went to Reedley. Latter reports that the agent of the Santa Fe at Reedley received a check for 31,439.64 back pay secured by the grievance committee from the company. This brother has already received enough benefits from the Order to pay his dues the rest of his life and have money enough left to take a summer vaca- tion. Dispatcher Fells is back in “DS" Bakers- field, after spending a year in Funabashi, Japan, and various other places. Bro. O. D. Day has a day run-around trick there and several others being made. Dispatchers Nichols and McPhee are both back working tricks owing to the shortage. Dispatcher Watts went to Dunsmuir. Bro. McCandless and I visited Los Angeles recently and came back “broke." Bro. P. S. Johnson relieved Bro. Weather- holt, third Tehachapl, on a trip to San Fran- cisco. Bro. M. A. Douglas relieved Bro. Fraser, Tulare agency, on a year’s leave. Bro. G. M. Black relieved Bro. J. J. Pickford. Dinuba agency, who went to Selma agency- Bro. C. D. Liston relieved Bro. J. H. Shay, Searles agency, who went to Bakersfield. I have a list of delinquents paid up only to December 31st, 1919, and would like to have the brothers living near them try to line them up. Will send a copy of this list to anyone who will advise me by wire or letter that they will help with the work. Some of them have some of the best jobs on the division and should reinstate at once as they are enjoying all the benefits the Order has secured for us. Send in your notes if you want this dis- trict represented. Rat McCuibton, Cert. 1226. Tucson Division, West End — Bros. Flynn and Kelly doubled at Rilllto while Sister Davies entertained the "flu," no extra men. Bro. Durham, Red Rock, called to Kansu City owing to a serious accident to his sis- ter, relieved by Bro. Bostick, recently re- turned from U. S. Army in Siberia, who later .opened new sixth at Yuma, where Bro. Silva relieved Bro. Ewing. Bro. Lawson, returning from San Fran- cisco Hospital to Dome, relieved Bro. Clark, who displaced Bro. McWilliams, Araby third. Bro. George, reinstated on third Gila, dis- placed Bro. Reinhart, who returned to Bosgue nights. Bro. Flynn, agent Rillito, attending the Shriners convention in Tucson, relieved by Bro. Kelly, and he on second by Bro. Bab- bington from G. H. Bro. J. P. Brown, Casa Grande ; Bro. George Wilson, Red Rock ; D. H. Smith. Maricopa, and several agents from the East End attended the safety meeting In Tucson the first week in May. Sister Hoover, returning to second Mo- hawk, displaced Sister Jean Shannon, who relieved Bro. Williams, agent Aztec, while he took in the Shriners’ big doings at Tucson. Bro. John Blakely, Dunnlgan, Calif., Sac- ramento Division, desires to trade seniority and position with some brother operator on this division, his seniority dating from Feb- ruary 22nd, 1919; fine country, no fiuctua- Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 791 tion of business, no chance of a cut. Those interested communicate with him at once. Address Dunillgan, Calif., care S. P. Co. “KN.” Tucaon Division , East End — Sister Griggs relieved Manuel, Cambray second, who took Aden third. Bro. C. J. Clifford, who relieved Local Chairman O’Con- nor at Aden while in Tucson on grievance case and visiting relatives at Bowie, later relieved Bro. O’Maley, Bowie second. Bro. B. S. Weiler, relieved on Deming first by Bro. Maull while ill with the “flu,” re- lieved Bro. Taylor at Lanark when he took Steins third, vice Bro. Silva, who went to Yuma. Bro. Cronin, second Deming, relieved ten days on account of sickness by Sister Ho- bart, Gage, second closed meanwhile, no available extras. Bro. Zeb Wilson, second San Simon, visited El Paso and Tucson recently, relieved by Sister Weiler. Bro. Doyle, Tucson fourth, relieving Bro. Bouck, agent Cochise, on three months’ auto trip to Canada. Bro. Mahoney, returning to Benson agency after three months' leave, displaced Bro. Eby, relieving Bro. Walsh, Wellton agency. Bro. B. H. Hobart, third Araby, relieved Bro. Baker, second Benson, who opened Tuc- son hew eighth, later pulled off when he took seventh, vice Bro. Francis to fourth, relieving Bro. Doyle. Sister E. J. Weiler displaced Bro. L. J. Wall, second Vail. Sister C. M. Smith to Polvo second pend- ing bulletin, vice Bro. King on six months’ leave. We will all be “busy” shortly when the melons start moving from Imperial Valley. The Short Line set of dispatchers between Tucson and Benson were put on May 17th, shortening the district of the “Stormy Set” considerably. I have Bro. Cates to thank again for as- sistance. He bid in Tucson seventh. He may not have the time to be so prompt here- after so anyone interested in having \Vest End items please forward them to me before the 18th of each month. Kathryn B. Morrison, Div. Cor. Members Salt Lake Division — I have been authorized by Bro. Hammond to make an effort to recruit this division up to nearer the goal of 100 per cent than it is at present. There are a number of nons and delin- quents holding scheduled positions on the division, and I will need the co-operation of every member to attain success. You have all heard from me personally so let there be no slacking in your efforts. I will try to have a write-up in the Jour- nal every month. Remember our motto : “No card , no favors ” Adhere to it strictly and fifty per cent of the difficulty in lining up the nons will be overcome. The man who after rea- sonable opportunity refuses to Join knows that he is taking something that you pay for. Give him a taste of what he deserves. It is now Bro. W. O. Harms, Winnemucca third. Sister E. M. Kelsey, second Valmy, a re- cent Winnemucca visitor, has been trans- ferred from Division 153, and Bro. W. R. Curry from Division 88. Bro. Banish, transferred to Portland Divi- sion, is located at Drain, Ore. Bro. J. E. Hizer, from Division 17, is on first Elko. See that he is transferred, and get Thompson’s application on second Battle Mountain. Bro. Ritts has gone to Rose Creek and Bro. Buckley to Clark. Bro. Bachman was up from Rose Creek recently to get some eats. The back time should soon be distributed. Get right after every non and delinquent and get his application before he spends all of the money the Order got for him. Make them help pay for the benefits they enjoy. “No card, no favors.” W. R. Cubey, Cert. 1979, Winnemucca, Nev. Northern Pacific R. R.» Div. 54. Lake Superior Division — When a laboring man fails to learn the fundamental principles of the present eco- nomic situation he Is doing an injustice, not only to labor, but his family as well. The grafters, the profiteers and the crooked poli- ticians know who is to blame for the out- rageous profit system. It’s easy to say the profiteers did it, but can you show Just how? For instance, the government sold a certain firm several million pair overalls at 17c a pair, which it retailed at $2.97 a pair. The farmer or wool grower gets less than $5.00 for the wool that goes into a $80.00 suit of clothes; eight and. ten dollar shoes cost less than four dollars to manufacture; potatoes that sold in the field at $1.00 a hundred or less are now retailing up to $7.00 a hundred. Many honest, hardworking people (tffe farmer for Instance) believe we railroad workers are piling up a fortune, and that we are to blame for high freight and high passenger rates, high retail prices and high everything. The only way to convince them to the contrary is to first educate yourself, then educate your critic. You cannot get this education through the kept press, the big daily papers, you will have to subscribe for a labor paper, most of the editors of whic hare called “Bolshevists,’* 4*Reds** and “Anarchists,” but “you should worry,** Just Digitized by Google

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792 The Railroad Telegrapher. as long as you get facts. There Is a national election soon for President, Congressmen and what not, and we should elect men that would represent the workers instead of "big biz,” but we can’t do it alone, we need the farmer. They and the laboring man hold everything in common and have too long been held apart by the propaganda of the exploiters. Now is the time to get together. With the proper representation in Congress a system can be arranged whereby we can buy more direct from the farmer, eliminating the middlemen, paying the farmer or pro- ducer more, and getting it for less. Simple, isn’t it? Now think it over, and before you forget it, send $1.00 for a ynar’s subscrip- tion for “Labor” Machinists Bldg., Washing- ton, D. C., which also gets you a member- ship card in the "Plumb Plan League.” This paper is edited by the heads of the railroad unions, and gives you all the inside facts in regard to what Congressmen and Senators voted for the profiteers and against our in- terests. Bro. Coyer promoted to extra dispatcher and Bro/ D. C. Gray to traveling auditor. We are pleased to hear of these well merited « advancements. Night Chief Davidson in Brainerd Hospi- tal. Cedar Lake opened, on account of ore rush, by Bro. Lapold. Bro. Penrose bumped into second Cromwell after second Willow River closed ; Bro. John- son into second Hugo, first Wyoming taken off ; Bro. Knedell, second, and Bro. Roberts, third. Sister Lankford resumes third Central ave- nue, vice Bro. Glum on extra, since third Anton taken off. Cert. 632. Dakota Division — 1 With the last delinquent paid up we still retain our perfect 100 per cent membership with Bro. C. N. Paulston, relief agent at Hesper. All we need do now is watch new arrivals and keep the "delinks” paid up. Bro. Sam Johnson wires that President Tyler and Mr. Rapelje have agreed to apply Interpretation No. 8 and he is now getting out the new schedule. The Wage Board at Chicago will probably hand down a favor- able decision shortly In accord with the gen- eral increase asked for last fall. Bro. W. W. Jaynes, farming near Elk. Wash., sends "73" to Dakota friends. Bro. John D. Everett is relieving Bro. Geo. E. Whitford, agent Hazelton, while George is farming. Bro. H. D. Flowers has returned to New Rockford from his visit in Tennessee, Sis- ter Tiny Webster going to Jamestown. Bro. W. B. Richardson, formerly Soo Line local chairman, now assistant cashier in a Wnk at Regan, was elected clerk of that city, and Bro. H. B. Rannestad, agent Re- gan, as treasurer. Bro. J. W. King, agent Tuttle, went to Wilton recently on business. Bre. R. J. Bashinsky, agent Pingree. is back after an extended vacation. Bro. Victor A. Peterson, cashier-operator Killdeer, relieved the writer as agent while under the weather. Bro. J. A. Berdahl, agent Dunn Center, leader of the Booster Band there, has worked up a real one. Bro. H. L. Mattson, agent Dodge, con- ducted a special augmented orchestra at the showing of the Miracle Man in Killdeer. Bro. W. H. Millard, agent Hazen, made a trip to Mandan to get Knight Templar de grees, preparatory to "hanging onto the rope” at Fargo Shrine in June. Bro. Geo. Olson has returned to second Steele with his wife from their honeymoon in Eastern cities. Sister Lillian Berquist has returned to Driscoll third from a visit in Max, Minn. The main line operators who benefited by Interpretation No. 8 are now in a happier frame of mind. Bro. J. W. Tangney, agent Edmunds, agent for Del bridge Calculator Co., has a rapid freight calculator, of which we have one, that is a time saver for any office. Get In touch with him. Bro. Wm. J. Luchslnger. agent New Leip- zig, getting the business of that city, says competition is like old times and worth while. Bro. David Charles Poindexter, represent- ing the Working Men’s Political Alliance of Jamestown and Stutsman County, was noro inated unanimously at the State N. P. con- vention at Fargo for state auditor, and is getting leave of absence to stump the state and hopes to have union labor, as well as others, unanimously behind him. We may be a Democrat, but we're for him. Would appreciate a few more members taking interest enough in these columns t«.» write me what they know. Still have some seniority lists for the asking. Am able t6 take^care of a larger correspondence over my new O. R. T. desk, with help of type- writer stand and chair. Bring it on. Let’s pot all crawl Into ?ur shells just because we happen to be a 100 per cent division. Keep acquainted. Watch for new members. H. H. Ellsworth. L. C. Idaho Division — Bro. Floyd, first Paradise, off three weeks in the hospital for an operation, was re- lieved by Bro. Mitchell, and he on second by Bro. G. D. Hartman ; Bro. Kay, extra, on third. Sister Jensen is being relieved three months by Sister Howe and she by Sister Cheatham. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 793 Eddy second closed. Bro. Sims to second ftathdrum ; Bro. Culler to Peck agency ; Bro. Cray to second Plains. Sister Paulin relieved Bro. Harrison, third Cabinet, who went to Kootenai Yard third, Bro. Vawter going to second Sand Point. Athol third was closed before Sister Wil- liams got there. After two weeks rest she went to third Cabinet. Bro. Lentsch, agent Athol, was relieved several days by Sister Paulin, who later opened Tuscor days, after working a few days on Pullman first. Bro. Thompson, agent Noxon, farming a few days, was relieved by Bro. Phillips, and he by Sister Brand on second. Bro. L&Moreaux, second Kootenai Yard^| was off a few days attending the funeral of his brother in California, relieved by Eron- son. The sincere sympathy of all the mem- bers is extended the bereaved ones. Sister Thornton, third Ramsey, spent Sun- day recently between trains with her hus- band at Trout Creek. Bro. E. W. Hartman, third there, has purchased a Ford bug. Bro. Hinton, third Marshall, is being re- lieved on a trip East by Bro. Griffith of second. Bro. G. D. Hartman is relieving Bro. Mays, first Moscow, and Bro. Berquist is being re- lieved by Bro. Hilliard. Cert. 498. Yellowstone Division — The joint meeting of clerks and teleg- raphers at Glendive, Saturday night, May 8th, was a great success, about one hundred being present, the clerks having the ma- jority on account of so many being located in the city. A very fine and enjoyable eve- ning was spent. The entertainment, con- sisting of dancing and music furnished by Bro. D. M. Cooper’s four-piece orchestra. A sumptuous lunch was served at twelve mid- night, which demonstrated that our clerks and telegraphers are good cooks as well as efficient employes. Nearly all subdivisions were represented. We should have a greater number at these meetings. They are of much good to all who attend. We must not overlook the fact that this Is our year in politics. Labor must awaken to the opportunity. Now Is the time to put representatives in Congress that will enact laws for the benefit of all. Don't fail to register and be prepared to vote at the elec- tion this fall. Subscribe for “Labor” one dollar per year, published by the Plumb Plan League at Washington, D. C.. and gep the truth. We are still progressing toward the one hundred per cent organization on this divi- sion. We have only six nons left, one an undesirable, and have the promise of two of them. The other three seem bard to awaken to the necessity of joining a real labor organization. Interpretation No. 8 should soon be applied on this road and we expect to soon win out on the new increase now before the Labor Board, created under the Railroad Act. Our demands for an equalization and an Increase of 1? cents an hour is not a cent too much. A letter from Bro. T. L. ShefTer locates him in Portland, Ore;, with the Southern Pacific. Bro. W. F. Segur is also in Port- land, but is not working owing to the con- dition of his health. Bro. F. H. Shipley has resigned to go to Canada. Mr. Holkestead, agent Glenullen, who will soon be a member, desires to express his sin- cere thanks to the officers and employes who presented him with a large cash present, which, was very highly appreciated by him. Let’s continue to work for 100 per cent on thte division. E. A. Brand, L. C. Montana Division — Of the five delinquents reported for this term all have renewed but one, who is said to have been a long and consistent member. Have been unable to get a reply to repeated solicitation. Our regular bi-monthly crusade on the few remaining nons seems to show nothing left but “hard shells.” It has been suggested that we publish a “non” list each month, also a ponspicuous “yellow” card for each non, to be distributed to the trainmen, who tolerate no “dead birds” In their craft Any person who continually accepts every bene- fit secured by the struggle and expense of his fellow workers and miserly hoards the small membership fee is deserving of any extreme measures we see fit to adopt to bring him to his senses. I should like an expression from the mem- bership as to the publishing of this list etc. Drop me a line. I will be absent from July 1st to October 1st and have deputized Bro. P. A. Lang, Logan, to act as local chairman, with the approval of Bros. Johnson and Nason. Ad- dress all communications to him, July to September, Inclusive. I hope he will be able to report a 100 per cent membership upon my return. A postcard from Bro. Lyssow, at Brevkort, Denmark, reports that he is enjoying a visit with his parents and the scenery of Ms na- tive land. Nothing said about the beautiful Danish lassies, but “am anticipating my re- turn to the good old U. S.” My morning’s mail brought a timetable of the South Carolina Division of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad. In the list of division officers appears the name of J. P. Darland as one of the Jacksonville dispatchers. Frank worked at “KD” on this division, signing “A,” during the summer and fall of 1917. Digitized by Google

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794 The Railroad Telegrapher. He went to Portland, Ore., as dispatcher far the Southern Pacific. His card is evidence that he has not lost sight of the struggle, nor Is he a novice as a train dispatcher. A recent letter extends his “73” to the Montana Division membership. A. J. R., L. C. Tacoma Division — Bros. Nelson and Saeger, Stanley, have been promoted to traveling auditors on some Of the divisions east of the mountains. The latter has been relieving Bro. Sinotte, agent Elma, on sick leave. Bro. Emerick, agent Nisqually, and Sister Mielke, Sixth avenue, were elected delegates to the Tacoma convention of the labor party. Bro. Carr declined the election. Bro. F. J. Strzelecki has been restored to Castle Rock days, displacing Bro. E. T. Wyse, who is now relieving Bro. Ritchie, second Centralia, on sick list. We wish him a speedy recovery. Requests have been made for a donation of $1.00 toward the purchase of a mimeo- graph, which would greatly lesson the work of our local chairman in getting before us the latest developments and other vital in- formation in which we are all Interested. Let us have a hearty response. E. C. Brtan, Cert. 1521, Hoqulam, Wash. Wheeling A Lake Erie Ry., Div. 55. Brother C. D. Smith is acting agent at Warrenton and Bro. Lew Davis at Beach City, as there were no bids on these posi- tions, likewise second Valley Junction, and it was closed ; O. L. O’Dell bid in second Adena ; Clark, a new man, went to “D" Brewster ; third Limestone closed, no oper- ators ; Bro. R. L. Spaulding bid in third Jewett ; Operator Goings went to Hartville days ; Ray Bender, second Coshocton, to Orrville Junction, several days later relieved by Colewest, a new man, now on second Kemery. Bro. C. A. Shilling, second trick Kent, re- lieved several days by J. B. Gallagher, a new man, and Bros. C. L. Farquhar, second, and C. E. Baltzer, third Harmon, by Hos- tetler. Barton and Gallagher relieved Brandall, 93d street, while he relieved the dispatchers at Cleveland Yard. R. L. Flowers, first Adena, and K. C. Burtscher. agent Suffleld, resigned. Sister Marguerite Welch, third Somerdale, off sick, relieved by Mrs. Hartzell. Bro. A. M. Lantz, first Canton Yard, re- signed, succeeded by Bro. C. E. Baltzer ; T. F. Dalton, agent Trowbridge, resigned, suc- ceeded by H. Peoples ; Bro. W. A. Forney bid in second Orrville Junction ; M. L. Strick- land, a new man, second Pine Valley, and Bro. R. R. Webner, Smithville agency, vice Pickens resigned. Massillon agency separated from the Pennsylvania, opened by J. J. Maas from Fremont, and Lodi agency separated from B. ft O. opened by Bro. J. H. Hanes. Bro. J. H. Woodruff from Williston agency bid in Fremont agency. Cxht. 818. Nashville, Chattanooga A St L., Div. 57. Nashville Division — Sunday, May 16th, our regular Joint meet- ing with the P. ft M. Division in Jackson was called to order by Chairman Hall. Min- utes of April meeting w’ere read and ap- proved. General Chairman Arnold gave us an ex- planation of the new w^age scale which appeared in the April journal, stating the *\\rage Board had announced through the “Labor Press” that the 2.000,000 railroad employes would probably be granted a par- tial increase within the next ten days to tide over until a satisfactory agreement can be made. The proposed agreement with the Amer- ican Railway Express Co. was read next, which is a good one. However, it will pos- sibly be delayed on account of other busi- ness being handled first. Bro. Morriston, agent Somerville, and Bra Holland, agent Lexington, made splendid talks. We were pleased to have General Chair- man Murdaugh of the M. ft O. and a brother from the R. I. with us. The meeting was well attended, but not as well by the Nashville Division men as we would like. We are 100 per cent now in membership, but we must attend these meet- ings as often aB possible and keep a watch- ful eye all the time to maintain our good record, w'hich we are all so proud of. Local Chairman Hall deserves great credit for his good work. Members recently se- cured are Sister Malone and Bro. Edwards. J. W. and Tops Lee. the two latter being levermen at Johnsonville draw bridge. Don’t forget the floral fund assessment of $1.00 to be sent Chairman Bro. Hall to be deposited in some bank for future pur- poses. Our next joint meeting is to be in Jackson the third Sunday in June between trains 104 and 101. This Includes the M. ft O., I. C- G. M. ft N., and B. ft N. W. brothers. Let s have a good attendance from our division Cxht. 114. Paducah & Memphis Divisions — There were 20 members present at the regular monthly meeting of the P. ft M. and Nashville divisions at Jackson, Tenn., Sun- day, May 16th. General Chairman Arnold and General Chairman Murdaugh of the Mo- bile ft Ohio Railroad was present and made very instructive and interesting talks. Bra H. D. Siler, a former N. C. ft St. X*. mar. Digitized by VjOOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 795 now with the C. R. I. & P. at Chicago, was with us and spoke of the vast difference now in wages and working conditions compared with ten years ago when he was on this road. Next regular monthly meeting will be held Sunday, June 20th, at Jackson, Tenn., jointly with all roads running into- that city. A very live meeting and large crowd is antici- pated. Bro. Crossan, third “FN” Memphis, while attending the meeting, was relieved by Bro. Odell, who also relieved Bro. Pipkin, third Jackson, while off sick. The latter just re- cently succeeded Bro. Whitehorn there, who bid in third Lexington. Bro. Mitchell, first Somerville, was off sev- eral days on account of illness of himself and wife. Bro. Norwood, second Oakland, has* re- covered from the injury received while load- ing express there recently and is back at work. Bro. Kirksey, agent Wesport, has our sympathy owing to the recent death of his mother. Bro. Brown, who relieved him, later relieved Bro. Spellings, agent Warren, several days. Bro. Lawson is back on first Lexington after several days’ illness. Bro. Holland, agent Lexington, has also recovered and re- turned to work. Bro. Joyner, second there, w'hile attending the prize fight at Memphis, was relieved by Bro. Brown. Bro. Hilliard, second Cordova, visited home folks at Westport recently. Bro. Batten, second Jackson, trying out as dispatcher on G. M. & N. and B. & N. W. railroad, relieved by Bro. Owen several days. Bro. Plnkley, agent Buena Vista, relieved by Bro. Segerson recently while attending court. General Chairman Arnold has moved his headquarters from Lexington to Nashville. Cert. 343. W. & A. Division — General Chairman Arnold and Local Chair- man Hall, Nashville Division, was with us at our regular meeting the night of April 10th. Both made very interesting talks. At our last meeting the night of May 8th we had Bros. Grist and Garrett from “US” with us arid enjoyed their short talks im- mensely. Boys, let's try and make these meetings more interesting. Bro. W. N. Cox bid in second and old Thornton, first ”Z.” Bro. Bell bid in second "MA,” and, Bro. Brown bid in the new job at “QN.” Sister Roberson is being relieved a few days by Bro. “BO.” Bro. R. D. Cox has returned from the “Wooley West.” Bro. Tatum, visiting home folks in Ten- nessee, relieved by ^yours truly. I also re- lieved Bro. Landers one day while he was planting his crop. Bro. Penn Mitchell was relieved by Bro. Thomas, a new man, a month on account of a sore hand. Cert. 12. Louisville & Nashville R. R., Div. 58. Louisville Division, Main Stem, First — Bro. Fox, Hutchinson, took the new first trick opened at Bonnievllle, succeeded on first Dividing Ridge by Bro. J. T. Davis, and he on third Rowletts by Roy Triplett, extra. Sister Katherine Spink worked sev- eral days on first Bonnievllle while the change was being made. Bro. N. M. Gilmore, first Bowling Green, has gone to "NE" Nashville. Sorry to lose “Old Nat” as he was always ” on the job.” Boys, send me some news and don’t any of you get on the “slacker list” just at the wrong time. AH get up-to-date, show your colors, and make the division 100 per cent. Remember the motto : “No card, no favors." Cert. 575. Henderson Division — Our letter for May reached St. Louis one day too late for that iBsue. This was the only division on the system without a delinquent on June 30th, and we propose to keep up this good record, there- fore send in your $6.00 dues for the six months period ending Dec.i 31st, 1920, right now to Bro. H. Moneypenny, Room 408, Fourth National Bank Bldg., Nashville, Tenn., and thereby lighten the work of your local chairman, as he will have to write you if you neglect this very important matter. Too many bulletins are being issued an- nouncing suspensions for delay to trains for sleeping on duty. Let's see a few come out to our credit We note with pleasure the restoration of seniority rights for the ex-service men, which had been held up for several months. Local Chairman Jones has returned from a ten days’ trip to points in Indiana and Illi- nois and visited our St Louis and Nashville offices. He wishes to emphasize the need of sending money orders to 6ur officers when remitting dues and other money to avoid trouble and expense of handling checks. Go after every new man accepting service near you, giving his name to our local chair- man so we can line them up. Within the next few months the politician will be in our midst and it behooves us all as true union men to show our colors. It’s going to be a bitter pill to turn down the old established parties our fathers lined up with year after year, but if their candidates are not for labor it’s our duty not only to vote against them, but do all we can honestly to defeat them. Many politicians are for everything to get votes but when elected they soon forget their pledges and promises. Digitized by tjOOQle

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796 The Railroad Telegrapher. We want men regardless of their political affiliations, who are not capitally controlled, and to elect such men it will be necessary for all to drop party lines and cast & vote for yourself as well as for your fellow worker. We are glad to know our men in "WF" office are coming into the Order. Agents Ginger, Moorman, Holloway, M&disonville and Hall, Springfield, are still nons. Keep after them until they line up. Not much laying off owing to the scarcity of relief operators. Dispatcher Hutchinson is hunting bear and deer in Arkansas, and Polk is making it warm for the finny tribe in Tennessee. All eyes are now on Chicago, where the Labor Board is conducting hearings on our application for increased wages and better working conditions, and we are all looking forward to a speedy decision in our favor. J. N. J.. Cert. 610. Kentucky Division — Bro. Chewning, Sinks, at Martinsville, Ind., taking treatment for rheumatism, relieved by Bro. Chas. Jackson. Bro. J. R. White, Richmond, off several days sick. Bro. W. M. Bryant, East Bernstadt, on thirty days' leave, relieved by Bro. Klmes. Bro. J. H. Branaman, Snider, is contem- plating taking a trip through Oklahoma shortly. Bro. J. C. Cain has returned to third ‘ GY" from an enjoyable Southern trip. Bro. L. Robinson relieved Bro. Donnelly, attending the Lexington races. Bro. J. J. Dunn has been with us and done good work getting back the delinquents and lining up the nons. There is no reason why the L. A N. can’t be 100 per cent. Re- member the motto, uNo card, no favors.” Practice it to the limit and note the result. Bro. Jones at London claims his name has never appeared in Thi Telegrapher. Now it has. I have not received a line from anyone. Brothers, please send me in a few notes. J. B. P., Cert. 786. Montgomery and Mobile Division — Oscar Underwood has been re-elected to the United States Senate from Alabama. We made a good fight, voting nearly solidly against him, as nearly all labor organizations did, but a few of our members weakened at the last minute and let old politicians turn them against the best man in the race. This being our first swing in politics, we did re- markably well, and the politicians will hear from us in the future. Agent Holly, Kinston, Ala., has just re- ceived a check for $2,580.17. The O. R. T. has been fighting for this money for the last twelve months, but could not reach an agree- ment with the officials until Docket T4# came out and then there was nothing to do but collect. 1 believe we are going to receive a sub- stantial increase in wages from the new Labor Board owing to the continuous In- crease in the cost of living. Keep after the few delinquents and get them to pay up their dues. After a road is thoroughly organized the employer, and em- ploye both get along in more harmony and conditions are better for both. It was the O. R. T. officials who took the time to ex- plain to our government our needs and ob- tain for us the things we are now glad to have and all should be willing to pay their share for this by keeping up-to-date. The things in life that cost nothing are not worth anything. Bro. C. A. Price, agent Pollard, Alx, bought a showcase recently, so he must be going into the mercantile business. Bro. Wallace Long, dispatcher Montgom- ery, Ala., is figuring on guying a farm at Wawbeek, Ala. Bro. Tom Perdue, third “CF,M is flushing a bank roll since the election. He put his all on Tom Hefflin and won. Cert. 708. Cincinnati Terminals — Bro. McNavian, “FD,” has gone West Cor his health. . We all wish him a speedy re- covery. Mr. Hinton from the Western Union, who relieved him, already has his ap- plication in. We only need one or two more such men to make us solid. An operator will be placed at Latonia Freight Station during the perishable season. Don’t overlook your dues and assessments due July 1st Remember what the O. R. T. has done already and what there is yet to be done. We need more money, vacations and extra pay for Sundays and holidays. The only hope is in our organization and it can- not survive without our support. Let’s not forget what has been accomplished the past two years which we would never, have real- ized had It not been for the O. R. T. Cert. 1100. St. Louis Division — It is now Bro. Brown, agent McLeans* boro. Bro. Jimmie Estes took in the carnival at Mt. Vernon, 111., recently, and was very much interested In the fat girl who only weight 572 pounds. Bro. Andy Moore, third Belleville, to lay- ing off a few days. He says Dahlgren to » real job. Bro. F. C. Sharp goes there as agent. Bro. Wallace, third Nashville, was off * few days recently. Bro. J. P. Hironiraus, trick dispatcher Eastern Kentucky Division, has returned to Digitized by ^.ooQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher 797 this division and is now on second "Q” Howell. Bro. Bryant from the I. C. is relieving Bro. Thompson, who with his bride is visiting his brother at Muskogee, Okla. He writes that he caught a fish there weighing 24 pounds. Pretty big fish. Bro. Hatton, agent at Dales, sick with mumps, is being relieved by Miss Zellers. We regret to learn of the serious illness of local chairman Compton, confined to his room with appendicitis, and hope for his early recovery. Cert. 2474. Southern Railway, Div. 59. Asheville Division, Main Line — I promised Bro. Coulter that I would rep- resent this division each month, but there are not many changes on this side and I cannot get anyone on A. & S. to send me any news. Bro. Calloway, fishing and hunting on Toe river, relieved a few days by Bro. Wilkinson. Non Puette off for extended trip. Bro. Crisp relieved Non Puette, visiting relatives. Bros. Murr and LaFevers recently pro- moted to dispatchers in "KN." Bro. Pat Moore working C. C. & O. job temporarily. Nebo third discontinued, Bro. Glendown to second "MC,”.vice Bro. Smathers to extra board. Azalea and Bridgewater first also discontinued. Bro. Coulter and Ramsey not making rolls yet. Brothers and sisters, let us pay up by June 30th. It takes a solid front to combat cor- porations like railroads as they are more solidly organized than any labor union and are trying every plan conceivable to bust us up. Don't get worried at our officials. They are doing all they can to get what we are asking for and you will be notified as soon as they can get a decision. Send me some news, pay your dues and land on the non at your station, like I am going to at my place. Cert. 2056. Columbia Division — Brothers, we have a new chief, also a new superintendent, both very fine men, and want us at our highest efficiency. This I ask of you because we are having more trains now than ever before, and it takes prompt work to keep them moving. Let us do our best. Our division is in very nice condition as far as membership is concerned, but I am still in hopes of 100 per cent. We have some of the very men with us now that we almost gave up in despair. Anyway, they are hard shells in our side and will make the best of members. I never have seen it fail. I want you to pay your dues right away. It will save everyone a lot of trouble. I will get out a list for all to see who is who. Some of the new men have gone and I don’t know exactly how they stood, but hope they are in good. One that I examined on rules seemed to be a very fine boy.* Don’t you want a new L. C.? Please talk it up and see how you like It I think I have been sticking very well and want to give some of the other brothers a shot at it. Let me know what you think and be frank about it. No news notes from the line. uBone Head” at “K” is still alive. “IZ” at "HG” wants off, so does Bro. Roof. Bro. McGimpsey and Bro. Frisbbe had a time with the "flu,” but are better. J. B. Elkin, L. C. Atchison, Topeka &. Santa Fe, Div. 61. Middle Division- Olive Burnett, second Hampson, was re- cently married at Newton, Kansas, to Rob- ert Louis, a prosperous young farmer near Hampson, where they are making their home. We are glad Olive did not leave the service. Hugh Bryan and Miss Goldie Vaughn, third Braddock, married at El Dorado, May 7th, are making their home at Burns. We wish the newlyweds a long, happy and pros- perous life. Miss Bobble Sherer has left her pretty flower garden at Newton and gone to Salina. Wish you would all drop me a line or ad- vise on the wire if you would like to see this division have a floral fund. A few kind words and flowers scattered in our pathway while we are here will bring more happiness than tons of them after we are gone. If a few will say "OK” I will fix up a paper and circulate it to pledge 25 cents each, which can be remitted to our local chairman. Send me any news you can. K. K. Mendenhall, Cert. 2151, Florence, Kan. Plains Division, First District, Waynoka to Canadian — Bro. Henry Moore bid in first Quinlan, re- lieving W. I. Sandell, who bid in second Woodward Tower. Bro. J. B. Johnson, third Heznan, has re- turned from Topeka Hospital, vice Non Lud- den, relieving Robertson, Black Texas. Bro. Carver, agent Glazier, writes that Miss Ethel Nation sent in her application re cently, making his station 100 per cent. Ex- pect "Mutt” Couch, first Higgins, and W. I. Sandell, second Woodward, to line up pay day. Bro. Seeliger, agent Quinlan, has the "flu.” Several of the boys had to run down to Dr. Hager to take the eye and ear examination. You brothers along the line send in some notes so we can have a good write-up. Cert. 766. Digitized by Google

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798 The Railroad Tei.kckapher. Slaton Division — Bro. Hart was called to Coahoma, Texas, owing: to the death of his wife’s mother, and Bro. Jonefe a few days on account of the death of his sister. Bro. Shields relieved by Bro. Lamm, relief agent, indefinitely on account of sickness. Bro. Henry Snyder has purchased a new Jitney. Bro. Bankhurst bid in Lockney agency, vice Bro. Miller, resigned to enter business, and Bro. Kraft has bid in third trick Lub- bock. Bro. Patton, second Sweetwater, a recent visitor, contemplates being transferred to this division. Quite a number of agents and operators desire vacation but seems impossible to get any relief. Bro. McBride, agent Toch, is being relieved by Bro. Pedigo. Bro. Finger asked for thirty days leave, June 1st, it is rumored, for a honeymoon trip. Meeting at Amarillo. May 22nd. We have only two delinquents and one non left. Let the good work proceed. “CD," Cert. 549.' Colorado Division — • In a recent automobile accident at Canon City Bro. Evans' sister was seriously in- jured but Is improving. Her husband and two other persons were killed. Local Chairman Merritt has been elected a delegate to the A. F. of L. political meet- ing in Denver, June 10th. The meeting in Pueblo, May 19, was well attended considering the train service our out-of-town members have. Bro. Merritt re- ports over thirty were on hand at roll call. Bro. Firth is going to raise rabbits and will welcome any advice in regard to han- dling them. Bro. Been visited the old folks at Littleton recently. Bro. Carnahan is a proud uncle now, a girl having been born at the home of his sis- ter, and our sister, Mrs. Whiteman. There is a nice balance in our flower fund and any brother or sister wishing to donate can mail the amount to Bro. Merritt. This is a good thing and should have the support of all the members. Bro. Shields at Pinon has a nice new side car for his Henderson and is ready and will- ing to give any sister or sister’s sister a joy ride. Sister Whiteman has resigned to take up farm work with her husband over at Palisade. Send me some news notes, brothers and sisters, so this division can have a write- up each month. We haven’t had one for some months because no one sent me any news. R. J. For, Cert. 666. Arizona Division — The co-operation of every member Is re- quired in order to make our division solid; keep down our delinquent list and reduce the number of nons. Let’s all work together and line up in a drive that will make our division 100 per cent by July 1st. Several operators along the line, by long serv ice, have earned a bonus of five dollars a month. Some extra men relieving on these jobs claim they were only paid the minimum rate exclusive of the bonus. Article eleven, paragraph five of the telegraphers agreement with the company covers this, inasmuch as it states that the salary remains with the position. Those who relleve4 on these jobs should take it up with the local chairman with a view tof receiving the difference be- tween the salary of the position and the salary received, while working there. After many years of faithful service Sis- ter Turk, second Fenner, has resigned, re- lieved by F. E. Lankford, a former govern- ment radio operator. Bro. Owens, second Klondike, relieved a few days by Maxwell, a new man. Bro. Jordan bid in third Bagdad, relieved on second Drake by Casey, another new man. Sister Noyes has returned to McConnico, relieving Sister Luellen, who went to Trux- ton. Sisters McCall and Bowers. Franconia, have returned from a visit to Los Angeles. Bro. Kennedy was also a recent Los Angeles visitor. Sister Trenkle relieving. Sister Inman relieved Sister Lewis at Lavic a few days. Bro. Carl Northup bid In 87 Job at Needles, relieved by Williams on first Kingman extra. Bro. J. M. Johnson from Division 35 relieved Landon, second Peach Springs, ten days. Bro. Tom Morgan, at Bagdad, will line up Moore on first there. It’s now Bros. Clark and Groenke on second and third at Daggett. Bro. Bill Wilmot, Cadiz, is relieving Bro. Agent Mann, the agent there, relieved by Bro. Haymer, an old-timer on this division, who has been bucking the extra board on the S. P. for the last two years. Bro. Dresbaugh, agent Danby, has re- signed, relieved by Davis, a new man, and Bro. McIntyre, relief agent, relieved Bro, Hoxie at Searchlight two weeks. Cebt. 3106. Valley Division — Bro. F. M. Morris, Empire, now drives a new "Moon Six" and the eight re-classlfled agents who received from $600 to $1500 back pay on April 29th have all ordered limou- sines. Bro. Williams of Orosl passed the cigars in honor of his new daughter. Bro. H. A. Bierschwal, Escalon, Is nurs- ing a case of the mumps, and Bro. Parsons. Digitized by Google

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1 The Railroad Telegrapher. , 799 Merced, has returned to Los Angeles Hos- pital for a few weeks. Bro. O. P. Harpel, Cutler, is home from the hospital. In spite of the fact that Mr. Loosemore, a retired farmer of Hanford, did not like oper- ators, Bro. Nic Chamberlain, second there, eloped to Fresno with his daughter, where they were married, April 23rd. Congratula- tions. Bro. I. M. Fickas, agent Merced, is spend- ing a week with the “KPs” at Yosemfte Valley. Bro. G. P. Jones, Storey, has returned from a visit with relatives and friends in Texas. Bro. Harold Rice, relief agent, is helping out Bro. Meehan at Piedra. Bro. C. L. Jameson relieved Bro. J. G. Byers at Middle River while he w-a s getting married. Cert. 55. Queen & Crescerit North, Div. 62. .4. O. S . Division — Since the sweeping reduction in the operators’ ranks a month ago, the “rolling” Is about over. Everybody has settled down to business and things on this division are rur ning smoothly. A few “nons” are still “riding” with others who are “paying their fares,” and those same “nons” talk and act like real good, honest men in other re- spects. Local Chairman Pearoe, at Collinsville, requests the assistance of all the members to line them up. Cert. 194. Great Northern Ry., Div. 70. Spokane Division — The meeting in Spokane, May 2nd, was very poorly attended. Bro. McDonald gave us the points on getting away from handling the U. S. mail, and spoke of the good finan- cial standing of Division 70. Some of the brothers who were right in town did not attend this meeting. We would like to see all of you at the one to be held in Spokane, June 25th. Let’s see if we can- not make a better showing than any other divisions on the G. N. Priest River, Odessa and Ephrata first ; Laclede second ; Columbia River and Lyons third ; and Marlin, Lamona and Milan second and third closed, owing to slack business, putting a number of brothers out of work. Bro. McKane from Marlin, after relieving Bro. Brook, second Odessa, a week, bumped Bro. Manetsch from second Harrington, who relieved Bro. Bright, second Wilson Creek, resigned. Spokane Division — Bro. French, first Sand Point, on ninety days' 'trying braking. Bro. Musselman, second Wenatchee, on a trip to the coast relieved by Bro. Brown, who later relieved Bro. Corbett, third Leav- enworth, three months on a trip to Minnesota in his “flivver.” * Bro. Clark, third Camden, and Bro. Boughey, third O. W. R. & N. Jet, Spo- kane, on sixty days’ leave, former relieved by Mrs. Yeager, latter by Weaver, both of whom have promised to join shortly. Don’t let them forget it. Bro. De Grosse, second Hillyard, relieved sixty days by Bro. Geil, Essex, Mont. Bro. G. C. Fasken, agent Cashmere, re- lieved sixty days by Bro. A. O. Anderson, and he on second there by Bro. Smith, relieved on third by Bro. Pfeflferle. Bro. Brady, agent Douglas, relieved thirty days by Bro. Lethridge and Bro. Musselman on a visit to the coast by Bro. Hazel. Brothers and sisters, when a new man shows up ascertain if he has an up to date card, if not, get after him and see that he takes one out, advising your local chairman of his intentions. Cert. 162. Montana Division — Bro. Wilcox, while he made another move, was relieved by Bro. Brooks, who later re- lieved Bro. Kell, third. Wolf Point. Sister Hazel Philly, relieved at Snowden, later bid in second Wolf Point. Sister Craft w'as relieved at Tampico by Sister Carm. and Sister Johnson, who re- lieved Bro. Craft there also relieved Mrs. Mueller, first Snowden, a week. 'Young Brooks walked off the Job one morning about 2 :30 and may be still walk- ing as far as we know'. It is very difficult to get a lay off now, due to the shortage of operators. Notify the officials about twro weeks ahead of the time they wish to be relieved. Cert. 246. Havre Division — Our general committee meeting in St. Paul for schedule work is being held up awaiting the recommendations of the Labor Board. To continue schedule revision now would only aggrevate matters, confuse the Issue atfc stake and give the management a chance to go before this board and claim that certain increases were being granted the employes through new and revised rules and working conditions. It is in accord with President Manlon’s wishes that we wrait until the Labor Board completes its work, when we will get busy on the new schedule. Now' is the time to do organization work so we can present a solid front at St. Paul. Get busy on the few remaining nons and show that this division is carrying the ban- ner. Mail your dues in as soon as the notice is received and there will be no chance for me to raxchide you to get them in. The Interstate Commerce Commission in an order recently issued defines carrying the mall as coming under the head of side, ter- Digitized by Google

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800 The Railroad Telegrapher. minal and transfer service for which the railroads receive special remuneration, com- pensation being determined by the amounts paid by the railroads to the contractors, or where handled by agents, by the value of the pro rata time of such agents or employes while engaged in rendering the service, in- cluding cost of vehicular service that may be necessary with the addition of 3 per cent. The O. R. T. for many years has protested to the railroads against the imposition of carrying the mail, and now that they are to receive extra compensation from the Govern- ment, steps have already been taken to re- lieve us of this service. If we are successful in obtaining relief and the railroad should ask the agents to arrange for handling the mail for their respective stations, we hope none of them will lower themselves enough to do so. Tell the com- pany you do not want to carry the mail at any price. If any of the employes stoop low- enough to do so, they need not expect any sympathy from their local or division offi- cials. Money is not all there Is in the world. Think it over and don’t sell yourselves for a “few pieces of silver.” With the dues notice this period there is being mailed a complete compilation of the work accomplished by Division 70 for the past two years. Read this carefully. This is your Order, take at least that much inter- est in it to see if it Is being conducted along business lines and on an honorable basis. I attribute a greater part of our success the last two years to these two men, Bros. John- son and Olsen. By being fair and impartial, they have placed Division 70 upon a solid foundation. With a few exceptions our deal- ings with the higher as well as local officials have been the most pleasant I have ever experienced in organization work. The com- pany pays us for our time and has a right to expect that we give the beat in us. Not being satisfied merely with getting the money, but earning it, and with it the re- spect and esteem of the officials as well. “Do unto others as ye would they should do unto you*' I had the pleasure recently of having as my guest. General Secretary-Treasurer Olsen, and hope to arrange a meeting shortly when w-e can have both him and Bro. Johnson with us. W. Rat Walker, Local Chairman. Butte Division — Bro. and Sister Schilling, local chairman and wife, Montana Division, and Bro. H. N. Huesman. relief agent Minot Division, spent a few days at Alhambra Springs, recently. Bro. O’Mera promises to see that the new operators at Clancy line up. General Secretary and Treasurer Olsen, who spent a few days with Local Chairman Moore, in his trip over the road organizing, reports this as one of the leading divisions in point of membership percentage. Let’s make it the leading one by lining up the few remaining nons. Bro. Moore will give you a list of them on request You should now have the dues notice for last half of 1920. Mall the amount to Bro. Olsen, 356 Shubert Bldg., St. Paul, Minn., right away. The promptness of members paying dues for the first half 1920 gave Bro. Olsen an opportunity to do a lot of organiz- ing, both by mail and on the road. Remit your insurance assessments to Bro. C. B. Rawlins, Missouri State Life Bldg., St Louis, Mo., when you send In your dues. The general committee will not meet to revise our present schedule until the result of our case before the new Labor Board is learned. It would not be policy for the committee to formulate new rules and have to change them. Sister Bessie Queen is back on second Por- tal, after several weeks’ absence, having a serious operation performed, relieved by Bro. Dan Cummings. We hre glad to note that she has fully recovered. Bro. Sandquist was relieved at Basin sev- eral weeks by Relief Agent Bro. Kessler. If you are interested in a Butte Division write-up monthly, send your notes to Bro. W. B. Magner, correspondent, Judith Gap, Mont Cert. 197. Butte Division Notes — Bro. Ball Is back at Moccasin after two w-eeks* sickness. Bro. Lewis, Dover, resigned ; Smith, a new man, relieving. Bro. Hickman, Wolf Creek, bid In second Relay Office, Bro. Toohey* third Great Falls .Yard, relieving. Sister Clodfelter. second Gerber, visiting East, relieved by Mrs. Ball, later by Miss Davorsky, new phone operator. Bro. Magner relieved Evans. Judith Gap Agency, gone to Utah ; Johnston, a new man. relieving Bueker, second Judith Gap, re- signed. Bro. O’Mera. second Clancy, relieving Agent Galloway there, gone back East for treatment. Let’s all make a special ef^prt to line up the new men, delinquents and old nons. We are all getting good pay now with prospects for an increase. Our chairman cannot get in touch with all of the nons. and those of us who work with them should see that they have an up-to-date card. Don’t forget to renew your own which expires June 30th. W. B. Magner, Cert. 1114 Dakota Division — Bro. Fields, Petersburg, gave up East Grand Forks agency, after bidding It in, is now on the extra list, not being allowed to bid back Into Petersburg; Bro. Forslund is at East Grand Forks pending bulletin, as Bro. Larson, of Ed more, withdrew his b& not being able to secure a suitable bouse Digitized by tjOOQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 801 there. Brothers, the schedule reads : “Em- ployes who obtain bulletin positions and are compelled by Incompetency or other reasons, to relinquish such positions shall be placed and remain on the extra list until vacancies to which their Seniority entitles them occur, or are created, but they shall not fie eligible to return to their immediately preceding po- sitions until they have been advertised a second time.” Be sure you are going to take the position in case you get it otherwise you go on the extra list, as you cannot bid back into your old position until it is bul- letined the second time. Bro. Bjelde and Manager Arnold, “GF“ Relay, and family spent Sunday at Fargo, and Bro. Ford, “GF” Relay, and better half Sunday ed at Hillsboro, recently. Bro. Erlandson relieved Sister Walker, Moorhead third, ten days. Bro. Olsen was a welcome visitor on this division recently. “Ye Scribe" spent a week seeing the sights in the Twin Cities, and after returning rode, the Shriners goat, accompanied by our “Hon- orable” Chief Dispatcher and Trick Dispatch- er Russell. Bro. Carey who relieved me as second wire chief was relieved by Erickson, a new comer, from Spokane. “Wood ix," Cert. 848. Minot Division — Bro. H. N. Huesman. relief agent West End. on ninety days; Bro. Hebert, first York, on thirty days’ leave, latter, owing to ill health ; and C. H. Knudson, formerly agent Leeds, granted a leave, while supervising work on his farm at Lansford. Bro. Hemmesch is doing extra work at Surrey, Bossivean, Stanley and York. It is now Bros. Madigan, agent, and Tracy, cashier and operator, Leeds. Sheldon, agent St. John, has dropped out. Some one near him find out what’s the trouble and line him up again. Bro. Pollock, Bossivean, was recently mar- ried. Congratulations. Bro. Wilson, agent York, attended the big Shriners meeting at Grand Forks several days. Grand Secretary Olsen en romte west, May 11th. met several of the boys en route. Bro. Holmberg. cashier and operator Bot- tineau, has purchased a Dodge sedan. Bro. Dodge, formerly agent at Carbury, is now operator at Des Lacs. Bro. Oliver, first Rugby, who recently went to the Portland Government land sale, vis- ited relatives in Spokane for a w'eek. Bro. Monson. agent Barton, was called to Minot for visual examination. Trainmaster Frogner. now superintendent at Willmar. is being congratulated on his promotion by the entire Minot Division. With the assistance of Bro, Warner I can watch the East End for news fairly well. Some one send ine the happenings on the West End. Cert. 2038. Northern Division — Bro. Richard Burt is trying out at the Whitefish country. Bro. Olsen has his house all furnished at Shelby waiting for the bride. Bro. Monagle accompanied Monagle and children as far as Crookston on a visit to her home at Litchfield, Minn., April 30th. It’s now Bro. Pelzel at Fosston, but Hen- zel and Heckelman at Bagley are still on the non list. Helmer Ness, formerly helper at Erskine, is now opefator at Downer Pit. Let's see that he gets a card. Sister Bernice Scott, Angus, visited Crooks- ton via Tin Liz. recently. Our L. C. F. “Speeds,” at Lengby, will soon be up. He Is busy rounding up the nons. Everybody help. Sister Hallind, Lengby second, Sundayed in Fosston, April 25th, and spent Sunday evening in Crookston. Bro. Wright. Lengby third, says it’s great sport raising pigs in his spare time. Bro. B. A. Boyle, Maple Plain, Minn., is on his way to relieve at Floodwood, Minn., spent a few days on the farm batching with Bro. Mac. Bro. Heliand, R. A., is at St. Hilaire, at present. We w'ant a write-up every month and I appreciate notes and suggestions from Sis- ters and Brothers all over the division. If anything happens on your branch that would look interesting in The Telegrapher, jot it down and shoot it this way. I’d especially like to get a few notes from the Warroad and Ada branches. We have never had any mention of them. Always and ever, (,No card, no favors ." H. C. Hallind, Cert 1761. Superior and Missabe Divisions — Sister Mandy Bauers, Brookston, on a trip East, relieved by Bro. Tester; Bro. Howe and wife. Chisholm, visited the folks a week, and Sister Zern. of Virginia, spent the week- end recently with Local Chairman and Sister Pfenning. Bro. Frank Vleck, on third Victory Gray, on first Kelly Lake, and Bro. Floid, Ander- son, bid third Cass Lake. Positions recently opened : Emmert Tower, three shifts, Bro. Bert Hammond on first; Fermoy by Bro. and Sister Morgan; Nova by Bro. and Sister Sphung, and Sister Mar- cot : Holman by H. K. O’Dell and wife, al- ready signed up ; Lucknow and Gunn Junc- tion also open latter three tricks. Bro. Ben Bowrers will line ’em up if they ain’t. Bro. Palmer of Swan River has invested in a hunting lodge on the Mississippi, about fifteen miles below Sw’an River, Digitized by C-oogle

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802 The Railroad Telegrapher. General Chairman Johnson has set the ball rolling in regard to handling the mail. Bro. Nelson, Kelly Lake, is after a meet- ing at Grand Rapids about the middle of June. Let's hear from some of the other brothers, on this subject Bro. Nelson Is about the only one that takes an Interest In the news, all like to see the items in The Telegrapher, then why not help furnish them? Let's all send in a news item for the next issue. This division has been in the lead all along, let’s lead in this also. Cert. 597. Willmar Division — Bro. Elwanger, from Tintah, is relieving Bro. Paul at Donnelly. Bro. Bettiger is back at Morris again. Bro. Dostal bid in third Aberdeen, vice Brill to Watertown, and Ingerson to Brown's Valley ; Bro. Reidermiller, agent Chokio, transferred to Claremont. Bro. Bergfalk has resigned. We are sorry to lose him. Bro. McNellis, agent DeGraff, was off five days, recently. Send me your news. Cert. 184. Fergus Division — Place a star in front of No. 108 — Olga Swenson, and add Bro. L. E. Tilney's name to your list, transferred from Division 119. We expect to revise our schedule as soon as the Labor Board hands down its award. If you have any changes in mind, I will be pleased to discuss them with you. Have asked for a vacation and expect to be at Paynesville when you read this. Will continue to handle your affairs and will propably see some of you personally. It looks as though the U. S. mail question will soon be settled. Read the report of Bros. Johnson and Olsen and see just what has been accom- plished. Everything considered, we have done very well. Thanks to all of you. O. P. Knedel. Local Chairman. Breckenridge Division — Bro. F. B. Conger, Clifford, is relieving Bro. Jacobson at Hatton. Bro. B. W. Smith bid in Clifford agency, and Sister Schneider, Karlsruhe, bid in Han- naford. Sister R. Saul, off sick, was relieved by Sister Donahue, and Sister Haley is relieving Sister Lee on Bremen third. Bro. Walhowe relieved Bro. Leldal, Wells- burg, ten days and then went to Aylmer, and Sister Sessling went to Des Lacs for a few weeks ; Sister Lockman, Grace City, was relieved a few days by Sister Donahue. Bro. Zimkoski, Agent Bremen, and Bro. Anderson were off a few days, recently. Bro. Spoonheim, cashier Casselton, is lay- ing off for the summer to play ball with Hamar’s fast team. Sister G. Johnson, back from several months’ leave, worked "BR" Breckenridge, a few days, now extra, and Bro. Harris, Wahpeton, has returned from extensive trip to Florida* It is now Bros. Johnson at Bedford and Henry at "BR” Breckenridge. Bro. Thompson and wife, Kindred, and Bro. Sundall, Colgate, were recent Brecken- ridge visitors. Bro. Gauge, Colfax, went to Rochester with wife, Sister Johnson, relieving. Bro. Hinds returned to “NI” Breckenridge, Van Dyne on second. Cert. 315. Minneapolis & St Louis R. R., Div. 71. Central and Western Division — Our meetings at Minneapolis, May 12th, and Watertown, May 13th, were not very well attended. First Vice-President Brown at the Minne- apolis meeting favored us with a very inter- esting talk on the main topics of the day. We were unable to get him for a Sunday meeting and* it was probably very hard for members in that vicinity to get away from their stations on & week day, owing to the train service which does not provide a way to get back on the first district. The mem- bers should have turned out better at the Watertown meeting, as they could easily have come in on No. 16 and returned on No. 16. We hope they will turn out better at future meetings and show that they are behind the movement to better their conditions. Our general chairman requested the man- agement on April 6th to relieve our consti- tuents from handling the United States mail and this request being denied was referred to President Manion for further handling, which he "will take care of in the national movement before the Labor Board in Chi- cago, as will all matters pertaining to hourly rates and pay and equalizations. Our general chairman by checking up time in the superintendent's and auditor’s offices, in accordance with Interpretation 8, both on this division and the Eastern Division has increased the hourly rates in many instances and has had the interpretation applied to many positions where otherwise it would not have been done. The back time already paid out to our men Is nearly twenty-five thou- sand dollars, with an average Increase on the positions where applied, of 3 to 6 cents m hour. Only twenty-three railroads In the United States had the twenty-six day month and came under the provisions of Interpreta- tion 8, to Supplement No. 13 to General Order 27. Any brothers who happen to be delinquent are exhorted to pay up at once, we are ** per cent strong now and on the road to per cent, so let’s all boost. Digitized by L^OOQle

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 803 Bro. Crose, Storm Lake, relieved ninety days by J. E. Thompson. . Bro. Hagen transferred to Morton agency, relieved by Bro. A. E. Pashek at Luverne. Bro. Ess transferred to Troy agency, vice Bro. Erp to Victoria agency. Bro. Manchester is back at Lowry. Bro. Nichols, Winthrop, resigned, relieved by Operator Walkaski. Rolf Station taken back from the C. & K. W. with Bro. Weiland as agent. Bros. Sorg and Brake on second and third Gow’rie, Bro. Gleason, resigned. Bro. Knowles, C. T. U., is relieving on Huhiboldt first. Bro. S'. S. Young relieved by his son, Bro. J. Young, at Corwith. Bro. Hansen, traffic department, takes agency at Albert Lea, Minn., agency. Bro. Muske, agent Otisco, appointed cash- ier at Albert Lea, relieved by Bro. Potter from Mo. Pac., and he later by Bro. Hoeltz, . who also relieved Bro. Hinds, agent Leola, S. D., a few days ; Bro. B. Seberson, Aber- deen, while getting married and then bid in Otisco agency. Bro. Bolland and wife, third Chaska, for- mer relieved by Bro. Kayeska, thirty days, is visiting his parents in Montana. The C., M., St. P. took back Chaska, Bro. Halloran remaining there as agent. Bro. Pankhurst has returned to first Mont- gomery after relieving Bro. Wopatek, agent New Prague, during the long sickness In his family. Bro. Richardson, C., M., St. P., who re- lieved Bro. Hain, third New Prague, went to Waseca third, thirty days. Bro. Clauseon’s mother died at Winthrop. A floral wreath was sent from Waseca. The brothers of Division 71 extend their sym- pathy. Bro. E. D. Weiland drew Rolfe agency, relieved at Ormsby by Schweppe, St. James, Minn. Bro. P. J. Rocky transferred from Division 23, succeeded at Terrill agency by V. M. Steidl from Dawson. Sister Gladys, Mashek, is working as clerk at Madison. Bro. Wedge at Hanska has purchased an Overland. Bro. F. A. Gregg, dispatching on second, Fort Dodge, relieved by Bro. C. D. Adams, on first there. Bro. L. P. Aldrich is manager Duncombe Hotel, Fort Dodge. Drop in and see him, he will treat you right. Bro. H. E. Busse, at Stilson agency, by P. L. Turke. New members : C. A. Johnson, Langdon ; H. N. Manchester, Lowry, S. D. ; G. M. Crose, Storm Lake, Iowa ; G. M. Wage, Conde, S. D. ; A. W. Sorg. Gowrle, Iowa ; Mathilda Goeden, leverwoman. Monterey. Bro. S. J. Boyle and family spent Sunday in Minneapolis, recently, visiting with Bro. F. L. Hanson. Cert. 451. Eastern Division — We had a good turn out at our Oskaloosa meeting despite the hard rain, which would have been doubled had it not of been for the inclemency of the w'eather. Suprlntendent Houston very kindly arranged for No. 5 to make stops and allow our members north of Oskaloosa to return home the same night. Bro. Stanley is back at Keithsburg agency, he was relieved by Bro. Friend, relieved by Mason on second. Bro. Storey is again on the sick list. Bro. Jones is being relieved by Bro. Ed Bray at Eleanor agency. Bro. Trout on third in dispatcher’s office, relieved at Oskaloosa by Bro. Sterling. Bro. Robinson is working second in dis- patcher’s office, relieved by Bro. Crowder, of Hampton. Trainmaster Coleman, Western Division, has been appointed assistant superintendent of this division, succeeded by Mr. Kerwin, and he as trainmaster Western Division by B. W. Landfear. First Vice-President Brown gave us a very interesting and instructive talk. Bro. Craig, McCallsburg, is being relieved by Bro. Mayden, former general chairman of Division 75. It is now Bros. Kyle and Bartlett at Brigh- ton, making Brighton solid.- Also Bro. He- nish, second Morning Sun, making “MS” solid, and it ia also Sister Mary Blair at Ollie. Again, this looks fine brothers, nearly all our Jobs are solid now and we are getting close to the 100 per cent. This speaks well for General Chairman Gardner, and shows what a good man on the road will do for the division. Let’s all keep after the nons and have the 100 per by July 1st. Brothers at “DA” get busy and see what you can do, also keep after the few delin- quents, line them up and save Bro. Sand- mier’s time and money in writing them. Bro. E. E. Lamprecht, of Eden, 111., has gone to Florida on his honeymoon. Con- gratulations. Send in your news items, brothers, we will appreciate 'em. W. C. McLin, L. C. Southern Pacific Ry., Atlantic Dlv. 72. H. d- T. C. R. R., Dallas Subdivision — Owing to the advance in print paper and Government restrictions, the editor advises that the publication of “Assignments,” “In Memoriams,” “Cards of Thanks” and “Vaca- tions” have been discontinued. We should all feel proud of our local chairman. He is doing all he can for us and looking after the Interests of the company as well. The officials understand that all we ask is a square deal and if we try to Digitized by Google

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804 The Railroad Telegrapher. do the right thing we will all be materially benefited in the long run. J. H. Carxe^, Cert. 233. Hudson & Manhattan R. R., Div. 74. H. M. R. R Division 74— Bro. Lacy's place covered by Extra Mc- Intyre, due to illness. Bros. Fitzpatrick and Hildesheim have re- signed. Bro. G. Garrett has been inquiring about that red and white striped pole. We cer- tainly have a fine bunch of tradesmen among our brothers : a shoe mender, a barber, un- dertaker, elocutionist or food chaser, musi- cian and an honest-to-goodness sheriff. Platner bid in Cassion No. 1 ; Harding, Washington Street Junction, and McIntyre, Church Street and relief job. J Scholz, Cert. 31. Chicago and Northwestern R. R.f Div. 76. Chicago Terminal Interlocking — Bro. W. F. McGriff is seriously ill at his home, 4337 North Lowell avenue. Bro. Lynch, Hunting Avenue third, relieved May T4th to 16th by Bro. Geo. Cone, who also relieved Bro. Joseph Blakeley on sick list two weeks. Bro. Cone and bride after their marriage. May 1st, dined at the Terrace Gardens and then went to Milwaukee on their honeymoon trip. Bro. Reynolds, “JN” se<#nd, relieved by Bro. W. S. Burns two days, while being treated for an ulcer in his nose. Later Bro. Burns relieved Bro. Lee, who relieved Bro. Freeman, director Clinton Street second, on account of an infection in his thumb. Bro. Hager, Lake Street second, sick one day causing Bros. Scanlan and Lawson ’ to double, relief men all busy elsewhere. Bro. Connor, director Lake Street first, re- lieved two days by Bro. A. M. Zeimet. Bro. H. Slominski bid in Grayland third and D. V. Johnson, Rose Hill first, vice H. J. Kelly, resigned to accept a position in the passenger service ; R. Metz, Main Street third, also resigned and gone into other busi- ness. Those who have not paid their dues are James Neeley, Geo. Russ and Raymond De- Long at Lake Street, and G. D. Curtis at Deering. The other delinquents having re- signed. We should not forget the motto : “No card, no favors On account of the scarcity and high cost of stationary the local chairman did not send out notices of the joint meetings held May 18th. and as a consequence there was a very small attendance at both. Do not wait for the notices, brothers, but remember the time and place, 9 :30 a. m. and 8 p. m., the third Tuesday of each month at 180 West Wash- ington street. Cert. 1466. Lake Shore Division — Bro. Walter W. Manski, agent Pulaski, is very sick. Bro. Win. Moser, former agent Lyndhuret who relieved Bro. Corahl at Grimms, also relieved Bro. Carlson, Cedargrove, who re- turned to third Belgium. I received no notes from any one- Don’t get slack on the news, boys, as we need all we can get R. J. Bbick. Madison Division — Bro. H. C. Atkinson relieved Bro. Doering, agent Holmsville, a few days. Bro. Jenks attending joint meeting, Mil- waukee, relieved on Dalton second by Wyr- embek, and Bro. I. T. Sparling, Dalton third, several days by Harrington, a new man. These joint meetings at Milwaukee with the Wisconsin and Lake Shore Divisions have been discontinued until September. • Bro. Brown accompanied by his family Is on a month’s visit to relatives and frlenda in Iowa, relieved at Shennington by Sister Gladys H. Conklin. Bro. Eberts, who bid in Benton agency, relieved at Mt Hereb by Paul Steinhoff. 'Vyhile taking his examination for dispatch- er at Chicago, Bro. Corcoran, Baraboo sec- ond, was relieved by F. E. Riedelbach. who later relieved Bro. Abts, Elroy third, a week and Bro. Crogan, Reedsburg first, a week on a visit to his former home at Galesville. Bro. Roberts, agent Lodi, relieved several weeks by J. H. Meier, who later relieved several days on Reedsburg second. Bro. Keene, agent Roscoe, relieved several weeks by Bro. Schuppener, Roscoe second, and he by Bro. L. A. Reidl. On account of being transferred, please address all news items and communications to me at Mt. Horeb, Wis. A. R. SOMNSON, Northern Wisconsin Division — The recent switchmen’s strike has caused a great deal of feeling towards them. The public, while not in sympathy with the meth- ods pursued, are fully aware that the men are underpaid. An editorial appeared in one of the leading papers recently advocating a minimum of 32,500.99 a year for all railroao men. Suggesting that if the Board would look this question square in the face It could eliminate the strife for all time by providing a wage that will take care of the men, thus doing away with the constant increasing demands. Then the men would have con- fidence and settle down to producing and assist in bringing the recons traction period to a conclusion. Establish the differentials as they existed before and not allow our cause to be made a part of the program for political faction* There is no question but what it Is nscee* sary for us to enter politics in so far at Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher, 805 supporting the men who are fighting for our cause and the rights of labor.# Bro. W. F. Schultz is now with the Kle- ment Garage and Motor Co., succeeded at Fort Atkinson by Bro. Anderson. Other agency changes : Bro. Uvass at Ply- mouth ; Bro. Hardy at Wrightstown ; Bro. Cook at Neshkora and Bro. Pelton, Ash. Division at RIpon. Bro. Kuehnel, a new brother on this division is at Johnson’s Creek, and Bro. Tronson at Tower "WF.” The superintendent and train dispatchers are now located In their new offices, leaving Bros. Noyes, Tingly and Monroe in old "DU” again by themselves, happy to be alone with office room sufficient enough to turn around in. We are happy to note that Sister Connors has regained her health and resumed duty again at Juneau. The <■ long looked for back pay has been received by the men on this division, and no doubt all spent already. With proper representation, facts can be brought out with the newly created Board so that irregularities caused by tne Interpre- tation should be adjusted and those who did not share in this increase be taken care of in an adjustment along lines of putting posi- tions on a parity with other positions of similar class. Welcome the day when our committee can again sit across the table with our own offi- cials and take care of the needs of our own lines. This will do away with the waiting of several boards to pass on It and1 write several interpretations on whatever conces- sions are granted. It is time for us to plan for our second picnic. Arrangements will be made at our next meeting and we ask those who did not attend the last one to make a special effort to be with us this time. Watch for the date and come prepared for a big time. Cert. 77. Peninsula Division — We regret to announce the death of Bro. T. Peets, agent at Hermansville for twenty years, who resigned about a year ago on account of failing health and moved to De- troit where he passed away. He was a mem- ber of the O. R. T. since It was founded. His widow and son have the sympathy of the entire Peninsula membership ; also Bro. E. J. Seymoure, second Narinta, owing to the recent death of his infant son. Bro. W. R. Damity, agent Narinta, on a trip to Milwaukee, relieved by Bro. H. J. Kell. Bro. C. A. Laure, second Tesh Tower, and family visiting In Chicago and Milwaukee, relieved by Bro. I. R. Nelson. In order to effect our proposed standard- ization and reduce the 182 differentials to twenty-four, it will be necessary to apply 8.43 cents per hour to the present hourly rate of 56.75, which establishes a new aver- age hourly rate of 64.18 cents. The seven- teen cents increase applied to this rate would create an average hourly rate of 81.18. This has been presented to the wage board by President Manion. Keep after the nons, brothers, there will be a number of new ones again this season, as the ore business gets in full swing. A list of the nons will be furnished by Local Chairman Phillips or myself to any of the members* who will try to land them. Bro. R. A. Moran, first Powers, and family visiting in Chicago, relieved by Bro. N. J. Payton. Bro. R. B. Garrigan, back from the North- ern Wisconsin Division, with his family bid in Saunders third. Bro. A. J. Bandt seriously hurt in an auto accident recently is recovering. J. E. Ranger, Cert. 606. West Iowa Division — Bro. E. L. Davis, first Broadway, who has been off some time owing to the death of his wife is contemplating a trip to California to recover from recent attacks of pneumonia. He is being relieved by Bro. Hines, relieved on first ”BX" by Bro. E. T. King from the U. P. Let us do all w’e can to. see that bulletins are issued promptly. Bro. Center, agent Crescent, has resigned, which a host of his friends regret. It’s now Bros. G. B. Grimes, third Maple River ; P. S. Elston, third Scranton ; Benson extra, and C. F. Larson, third Jefferson. Bro. Kern was relieved by Bro. Sandeen a few days while Bro. Richy relieved on Ogden third. Later relieving Bro. Silllman on second there, while he relieved Bro. White, second Relay "ON,” in Chicago tak- ing examination for dispatcher. 3ro. Spilker, third Missouri Valley, was relieved a week by former Ticket Clerk Tal- bott, while celebrating the arrival of a baby boy. Bro. Joy from the Santa Fe is relieving Bro. O. D. Harmon, third Denison. Bros. Larson and Ohmsted, second Grand Junction, recently visited the brothers at Ogden. Bro. W. R. Barber, second Jefferson, spent commencement week at Denison, relieved by Leverman Scotton. Brothers, watch the new men closely, keep after the delinquents and It will not take us very long to be almost 100 per cent. Will have a complete list of delinquents and nons which we expect to soon get in circulation among the brothers. I wish to thank Bro. Grigg, second "BX," for his fine bunch of notes, and would appre- ciate it if some more of you would send me some by the 15th of the month so I can ar- Digitized by Google

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806 The Railroad Telegrapher. range and send them to St. Louis by the 25th. Cert. 2822. Dakota Division — Bro. J. C. Murphy, agent Salem, spent a few days at his home in Wessington. Sister Foster, second there, relieved by Operator Weiss, who promises to join shortly. Don’t let him forget his promise. Bro. Flnnerty, agent Parker, is going into the dispatcher’s office. Dispatcher Holmes has gone into the furniture business at Los Angeles, and Dispatcher Setan has* returned from a trip to Chicago. Bro. Pfefferle was a recent Canistota, Salem and Sioux Falls visitor. He now owns a Ford sedan. Bro. Erickson is now agent at Mission Hill. Bro. Lane, agent Esmond, oft several days account death of his sister at Mansfield. Bros. Kendall and Stites were recent Min- neapolis visitors, relieved by Bro. McDear- mor>, agent. Bro. Smith, Cavour, was a recent Huron visitor. Bro. Gillbright relieved several weeks by Sister Perkins. Sister Champ, in Volga hospital, relieved by Sister Stockwell and Sister Schultz. Local Chairman Champ while in Chicago on gen- eral committee work relieved by Sister Stock- well. Bro. York, Hetland, relieved several weeks by former Agent Nelson. Bro. Thompson bid in second Balaton, Bro. Ruddy, Lake Benton. Sister Perkins is back on second there. Bro. Calvert at Elkton by Operator Col- lins. Back pay received for Sunday work dat- ing back seventeen months, although small, helped some and we expect our schedule in July or August. Beginning January 1, 1921, the flower fund will be included in the semi-annual dues, thiB amount to be returned to each division secretary for local funds. We think this will be better than the old way as quite a number of us neglect this little sum. Keep after the few nons with or near you. I can furnish you all the application blanks you can use. Send your news items in time each month so I can arrange and get them to St. Louis by the 25th. C. A. Champ, Local Chairman. Eastern Division — Seven bents of the Elkhom River bridge were washed away recently and all main line trains detoured over the Albion line. Conductor Edwards at Oakdale handling the situation, with Operator Razor installed in temporary office at the bridge. Bros. Coe, Rupert and Donohue were kept busy while these trains were being sent around. Several bridges and some track between Clearwater and Ewing also washed, was quickly repaired. Bro. Strode relieved at Neligh by Ander- son, and Bro. Oatman at Atkinson a few days by Razor. Hereafter mail any news notes you have to me at Oakdale. Miss Ruth Whitney, at Battle Creek, was the only one who took enough interest in the write-up to send in any notes. I can always depend on her for a few items. I was appointed to help Bro. Thomas in this territory and I will, be glad to send them blanks to any one who has a prospec- tive member. Some of the boys got a nice sized check covering back pay and we ought to get busy and make this division 100 per cent. Those who received very little or nothing should remember that this was not an increase but just a difference between our Order and the management, and when Anally thrashed out, this back pay was the result This shows that the Order is on the job all the time working for our interest and we must give it the best support possible by keeping paid up and lining up the nons with or near us. C. J. Smith, Cert 2745. Texas and Pacific Ry., Div. 88. Eastern Division , ftNY” Relay , Fort Worth — Bro. Chas. Kinnersley and Sam Wallace off several days sick, others doubling owing to scarcity of men. General Chairman Abney is back after several days off. Bro. Roy Hodge relieved Bro. Paul Fillmore two weeks, visiting on Gulf. Fort Worth Division, West End — Bro. T. O. Rawls on Str&wn first by Nichols several days, owing to sickness in his family, who also relieved Sister Holton on Olden first, a few days. Bro. Turner Mason, Lambert first relieved two weeks by Sister Fitz, also off two weeks later, relieved by J. F. Livingston on sec- ond. Bro. Mike Maples relieved Sister O'Reilly. Tremble second, two weeks and she worked a few nights at West Yard on third in emer- gency. Bro. Lewis is back there now after sixty days as night chief at Palestine for the I. & G. N. Benbrook secorfd closed two days owtng to shortage of operators while Bro. Ford re- lieved Local Chairman Canafax on Weather- ford second, on account of sickness in family. Bro. Botvidson relieved ShotwelL Mingus second. In the hospital with eye trouble sev- eral days ; Bro. Skinner on first. Bro. J. T. Howell relieved on Gordon third, a few days by Nichols, owing to the illness of his brother, a member of Division 32. Digitized by Googk

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 807 Bro. Doc Flanigan, Gordon first, relieved by Sister Shelton a few days, is carrying passes marked : “Mr. and Mrs. D. Flanigan ." We wonder who “she” is? Bro. Ikey Newman, Mingus third, who was in Fort Worth May 18th sampling Moolah Temple’s hot sands, is now on his honey- moon. Bro. Blackburn has taken a job in the freight house, succeeded by Bro. Booth on Eastland second ; Bro. Wood is relieving Bro. Pitzer ninety days on Eastland third. Bro. Ford is relieving Agent Pollar4 at Benbrook, Sister Sheridan on second, Bro. J. W. Francis, Division 22, succeeds Bro. Maples, Tremble second, who took Collins- ville second. Sister O'Reilly relieved Bro. Elmer McIn- tosh, Tremble first, while he was in Mar- shall hospital several days recovering from a sprained left arm and bruises, having been struck by an auto in Fort Worth the night of May 11th. Bro. Nelson, Weatherford first, relieved by Local Chairman Canafax several days on account of the illness of sister in Phoenix, Arias. Bro. Braley, Olden third, relieved two weeks by Bro. Vicknair from Louisiana di- vision. Assistant Chief Dispatcher Menefee is wondering where he Is going to get opera- tors for the new 3 trick offices to be opened July first when the block system goes into effect and suggests we extend a cordial in- vitation to them. Get here early for these jobs. Watch these new men, brothers, and advise Local Chairman Canafax or myself of their standing. “No card , no favors.” Thanks to Bro. Howell, Gordon third, for notes. If few more would help me we could have a real write-up every month. Fart Worth Division — T C and Joint Track Sub-division — Bro. McGlasson, Bonham first, relieved two weeks by Bro. Chambers. DeKalb first abolished, Bro. Underwood bumping Bro. McElllgott, DeKalb, from sec- ond. Bro. Saye to Ector agency vice Bro. Brown to Bells second. Honey Grove second abolished, Bro. Bot- vidson to extra board. Bro. Russ Tucker, Raymond Winn and Bro. Mills put on as extra dispatchers on ac- count of washouts and Bro. J. W. McCoy from Whltesboro on split trick relieving Winn on car distributor job. Sister Cogdell relieved Sister Cade, Wa- tauga second, resigned — (wedding bells). Bro, Boone was off a few nights in, others doubling at Roanoke. Bro. Mike Maples visited home folks at Tioga recently. Bro. Geo. Sentelle was relieved on sick list several days by P. C. Jeffries, a new man. R. L. Denton, Cert. 632. Louisiana Division (East) — Shaw, Deer Park and Black Hawk stations still closed on account of high water. Bro. W. J. LeBlanc, from Shaw, who went to third Plaquemine when Bro. Murphy took Meekers first, later relieved there by Bro. Sam Wilkinson, second Waggaman, who bid it in. Sister Dustman, second Vacherie, resigned May 1st and was married May 8th to Engi- neer J. Roberts. Congratulations and beBt washes. Bro. Chambers, third McCall, re- lieved Sister Dustman, and Bro. Landry, second McCall, went to second Donaldson- ville pending bids. McCall second and third closed meanwhile as there are no extra op- erators on this division. Bro. Petty relieving the dispatchers at DO and DE on their vacation was relieved by the undersigned. D. C. Mattingly, Cert. 840. Louisiana Division — West — Local Chairman Nash Bunkie, second, is in Marshall hospital for an operation. Bro Hudspeth, agent St. Landry, has »just re* turned to work after undergoing an opera- tion there. Bro. Spence bid in Lecompte second. Bro. Bellamy, agent Fordoche, is anx- iously awaiting transfer to the Ft. Worth division. "C. D.”, Cert 64. Chicago Great Western R. R.f Div. 96. Western Division — The Anti-Cummins meeting held at Ft. Dodge, May 7th, was well attended by men of all the R. R. brotherhoods, each being represented by one of their leaders, who were all excellent speakers. Third Vice-President Pierson, represent- ing the telegraphers, spoke of existing con- ditions at Washington. We telegraphers, as an organization, have not been generally heard with possibly only one or two of our members ip each town or city. However, we are in an excellent and perhaps better position to confer with the farmers than any other organization, as we handle their business of shipping to and from our stations. It should be the duty of each member to talk to these men, inform them of our conditions and see that they under- stand them. Also, have them explain what they have to contend with. This will create a more friendly feeling among them toward that great mass of people called ** organized labor ” Pass up all minor differences and get down to the main facts needed to weld together the great co-operative power of these two branches of workers. We will then be able to command the sympathy and interest of the public, rightfully due us. The primaries in Iowa will be over when you read this, but there may still be time to do good work by the brothers in other states. Digitized by tjOOQle

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808 The Rallhoad Telegrapher. I attended as many sessions of the Iowa State Federation of Labor convention at Ft. Dodge as my work would permit, and the discussion showed that the different classes of organized labor must take the lead in an upright American way to bring about the long hoped for change in existing conditions throughout our country. So you can readily see that the co-opera- tion of interests requested by our organiza- tions are necessary to accomplish such beneficent results. Omaha freight house telegraph office closed owing to shortage of operators. Chairman Harre of Dumont made a trip over the line recently. Bro. Schrader, of Readlyn, was off a few days on account of sickness. Any notes of interest will be gladly re- ceived. G. R. Hoisington, Cert. 169. Asst. Loc. Chmn. Duluth So. Shore & A. Ry.f Div. 116. Bro. J. C. Eaton is back at Superior West End after five months’ absence in Baltimore, Md. General Agent Morrisey at Superior has resigned, relieved by W. H. Hart. Under- stand Bro. Jesse Pepple of Lake Linden is to take the position. Bro. Wubbena, Iron River, succeeds Relief Agent Campbell, now in the general mer- chandise business there. The latter has been doing telegraph work recently owing to the scarcity of operators. Bro. Peterson, appointed agent at Bruce’s Crossing, is still waiting on this account to be relieved at Nestoria. We are all anxiously waiting to hear what the wage board is going to do. The newspaper talk of the “big wages paid rail- road men ” looks like the “big interests " are playing about their last card. Fishing season is open and Bros. Benning, of Sanborn, and Parsons, of Lake Nebaga- mon, both claim to have cailght the largest trout so far. Bill Annear goes fishing at every opportunity, but never seems to get any fish. Thanks, Bros. Poppe and Wubbena, for notes. Keep on remembering : “No card , no fa- vors*'. N. H., Cert. 215. Lehigh Valley R. R.f Div. 124. It is time to pay semi-annual dues again. Remit promptly and return the notice slip I send you w'ith your remittance. It will save me considerable extra w'ork if you do this. Be sure to remit your M B D as- sessments to Bro. Rawlins at the same time you mail me your dues. Don’t allow* this tc overrun the sixty days’ grace given to pay them in. Every dues period I receive a bunch of notices from Bro. Rawlins of mem- bers who have paid their dues forgotten to remit him for the M B D, simply be* cause they laid aside their notices and for- got to mail the required amount. This causes the Grand Division office a consid- erable amount of work, also myself, in writing letters calling it to your attention. Keep in goo£ standing by paying your dues and M B D promptly and take no chances. It should not be necessary for me or the local chairman to write you in regard to this. You should take enough interest in your own welfare to do it without any urg- ing. It’s your cause just as much as our; please bear this in mind. Bros. Knecht, Besser and Sylvester hare already paid for next term without even any notice of dues. These brothers are to be congratulated as they have not only done so this time, but they do it every 6ix months. About one hundred members paid for the year, January 1st, which is very much ap- preciated. I also appreciate the fact that a great many more would do so If they could It’s just as easy if you can do so. to get an annual card. M. M. Crane, G. S. & T. Buffalo Division — More of our men should have been at the last Rochester meeting and heard Vice-Pres- ident Ross. He speaks what he thinks. Al- though some of the regulars did not get out others were there who have been unable t* attend on account of bad roads and snow all winter. “JN” “CD” “WO” were represented for the first time in months. About twenty- five in the morning and a full house in the evening. All come out, if possible, to the next meeting. About the same old crowd attended both the Buffalo meetings morning and evening The men in this territory should take more interest in these gatherings. One day a month is not much time to spend for your own benefit We have only tw'o nons and two delin- quents left Remember: “ No card J no favors” It works out to good advantage. Use ffi*5 rule and clean up' the division. Bro. Coleman secured the application of Dan Ryan, extra. Bro. Wood, back from Ho. Falls, Is filling in at “BF". Regulars all back at "FS”. Bro. Joe Griffin on third “DB” ; Bro. Gould relief there; Bro. Duggan, first trick. Copier — second up for bid. Cert. 213. Wyoming Division — Our joint meetings are getting larger each month, but there are still a few brothers missing who should attend. We have rented a new, up to date meeting hall. Drop In and see it. Learn the password to avoid any argument with the doortender. Bring your card ; be a good fellowT and help those who are trying to help you. Digitized by Google

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The Railroad Telegraphed. $09 Pay1 your dues. Don’t be a "slacker”. You may be sorry when too late. Learn the wire test, And out the nons you wprk with and keep after them until they join. While on duty give the company the best service possible ; report trains promptly. Don’t have the dispatcher calling you for them. Show the company that O. R. T. men are willing to do their duty at all times. The officials are good thinking men who will do the best they can for us. Work in harmony with your fellow men and the best of results ^ire sure to follow. Boys, if you want to see this division represented in The Telegrapher each month send in some news. Yardmasters train dispatchers and others get vacations with pay. So will we when we are organized solidly enough to include that demand In our schedule. Meanwhile, remember our motto : “No card, no favors *\ Cert. 59. Norfolk Southern R. R., Div. 147. Norfolk Division — Our 48 cent per cent figures out about $1,380 a year, including the express guar- antee of $10 a month. My accounts for the past twelve months, with a family of four all told, is about as follow’s : House rent, $12.50 per month $ 150.00 Groceries, $70 monthly 840.00 Clothing 300.00 Coal and wood 75.00 Church, lodge dues and charity 75.00 Doctor bills and medicine 50.00 Incidentals, fruit, etc.. $1.50 weekly. 76.00 Yearly grand total $1575.00 Nearly $200 short. How can we live at 48 cents per hour? If any one can improve on this, I would like to see how it is done. Should we be lucky enough to get that 17 cents an hour increase the officials are after in Washington it would mean only $300 more a year, thus giving us a little more to subsist on. Freight and ticket business is on the in- crease— mine over 50 per cent in the last four or five months over the same months of 1919. This should be a good time to notify the W. U. Tel. Co. that effective January 1st, 1921, we want a guarantee of $10 a month or stop handling their business, and the ex- press companies likewise on a guarantee of $15 a month. Let this be done from the headquarters in St. Louis, Mo., and we all would surely stick by it. Sufiday, April 24th, the Central Division, boys had a meeting at Washington, N. C., which I understand was very well attended, but owing to inconvenient schedule, the boys on the Norfolk division can not make it very handy. We should have a rousing big meeting at Norfolk shortly, so we can all take in Vir- ginia Beach and Ocean View, and all the boys from every division attend who possi- bly can get ofT. Several can come by the A. C. L., some on the S. A. L. from the Central division, and also extend Bro. Wil- liams, Richmond, Va., a special invitation to be present. At this meeting, we can lay the foundation for our new schedule which takes place some time in September. “Old Virginia”, Cert 3. Northern Division — Plymouth open several days, no bids, and it's a good job. Edenton third also open, the non there taking the managership for the W. U. at Washington, N. C. The perishable season is coming on, boys. Let’s show our officials that we are right on the job in ordering refrigerators, etc., and they will see that it is to their advantage to have men w’ho are up to date members. Bro. Dickey has resigned to go into busi- ness. We are all sorry to lose him. Bro. Crawiey, from “BC”, runs in town Saturday nights to relieve first trick Dis- patcher Hutchins and second trick Dis- patcher Gettel relieved by Bro. Thomas from “GO” office Sundays. Several promised to send me notes, but so far none received. I can’t find out all the news, boys, so if you haven’t time to write, call me at "GO” in the afternoons. We would all like to see a wrrlte-up from the Western Division. Cert. 234. Western Pacific R. R., Div. 153. Eastern Division — We had a lively meeting May 9th and many good plans were inaugurated. Among those present were : Bros. Breeding, Blair, Michelson, McElroy, Roberts, Lamberty, Durfee and Maynard. Bro. Smythe, agent Wells, called to Carson City as witness on the Conley case. Relieved by Sister K. Dougherty, who was later re- lieved by Mrs. Venable. Sister Gregg is on third at Wells. Bro. Mayer on third Wendover and Bro. Maynard and Mrs. Maynard are back at Pilot Bro. Jones, first Wendover, off a few days recently, visited his daughter at the Lake and took in a few shows and ball games. Bro. Mattingly has transferred to the Western Division and Bro. Terry has also landed a job down among the poppies. I hope to soon see the time when we "lizards of the desert” can bid on California posi- tions without a lot of red tape and a slice cut off our whiskers. Brothers and sisters, if you want to see more news from this division you will have to send me some notes. Lamberty, Cert. 236. Digitized by tjOOQle

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810 The Railroad Telegrapher. Florida East Coast Ry., Dlv. 160. Request has been made on the manage- ment to relieve our members of hand/ing U. S. mail, and they reply that they are secur- ing this data and will advise soon as pos- sible. Ticket-clerk-operators at Ft. Pierce an<S West Palm Beach have been issued back time vouchers from October 1st, 1918. Ojus and Jupiter night offices closed. Lar- * kin also closed Bro. R. L. Ferrell rolling Bro. Rollins, who bumped Bro. Morris who eliminated a non at Homestead ; Bro. Pratt bid in second West Palm Beach, relieved by Bro. “Bill” Johnson on second Ft. Lauder- dale; Bro. Sale bid in Perrine, Bro. J. M. Blow resigned, accepting position with ab- stract company; all wish him success. This will remind members holding semi- annual cards that their dues should be re- mitted to Bro. Holland, East Palatka, and M. B. D. assessments to Bro. C. B. Rawlins, G. S. & T., seventh floor Missouri State Life Bldg., St. Louis,, Mo. A. F. Bauer, General Chairman. Northwestern Pacific Ry., Dlv. 165. Southern Division — Bro. Seaton has resumed Larkspur agency after gathering subscribers for the Co-op. Store. Bro. Adams is now assisting in this work of securing members. Satisfactory progress is reported in their work ; well over one hundred members had joined May 17th, and full membership is expected within a month or two. Bro. Carlile, formerly at Willits, now trav- eling and taking things easy, visited the writer recently. Arthur Sullivan, who worked on this road a few years ago, now with the S. P. at Redding, motored through here with his wife recently, renewing old acquaintances and looking over the old road. His father is division surgeon at Sausalito. The summer offices will all be open this year and there is every indication that it, will be a big one for the resorts, regardless of the H. C. L. as folks will take their va- cations. The broad-gauging to Point Reyes will help in opening up that section of our line, besides adding to the comfort of the travelers. The last meeting held in San Rafael was fairly well attended. I was unable to be there and do not know what happened. Would like to hear from some of the brothers as to what is going on ; received no Items this month. Keep organized. Cert. 106. Georgia & Florida Ry., Div. 167. Bro. R. L. Moore goes to Nashville ageney, Bro. J. A. Walker to Garfield, and Carter, a new man. takes Douglas first and E. L. Dover second. It will soon be Bro. F. M. Phillips. Swainsboro, nights. Bro. Thomas Mitchell relieving Bro. Rush at Haaelhurst relieved by Miss Kitchens. Let’s all pull together and, remember— the old slogan. Cert. 77. Oregon Short Line R. R., Div. 172. Montana Division — Our correspondent, Bro. V. J. Swanson, third Idaho Falls, on sixty days’ leave, visit- ing relatives in Colorado and spending a month on the Pacific Coast, is * being re- lieved by Bro. F. L. Sc h wing, who previously relieved Bro. Shaffner, second Dillon, for thirty days. Mr. W. Davis, agent Fort Hall, recently pensioned, has been in the game a long time and we wish our old friend “W“ success and happiness the rest of his days. The call is “M” for the new office recently opened in Mr. A. V. Kipp’s office In the Rialto Bldg., Butte, Mont., by Bro. R. B. Brownson from Salt Lake “SA’\ We hope to have the position put in our schedule shortly. At a meeting held in Idaho Falls evening of May 1st, fourteen members were present Our new schedule was gone over and thor- oughly discussed ; also other matters of Im- portance. Every member present express*! a wish that the fraternal news Items in de- journal be continued ; that while they m greatly benefited by having the weightier matters of interest to members of our craft, published, the fraternal items always catrb their first glance upon receipt of Ths Telegrapher. Much good results from these meetings and we hope to hold forth at vari- ous other points on the Montana in the near future. J. D. Tate’s, Thornton, Ida. ; C. L. Perley- witz’s, Lima, Mont., and W. Q. Kearns', Mel- rose, Mont., applications would make the Montana solid. Let’s live id hopes and con- stantly work for It. T. B. King horn, L. C. Tennessee Central R. R.f Div. 178. The meeting in Lebanon Sunday night May 16th, had a very good attendance, and those who could have come and failed to do so missed a good time and some interesting news. Brothers, unless you make some sacri- fice you will never gain anything. Make a little effort and attend these meetings. It will strengthen you, encourage those present and influence the nons to come into the order. Our general chairman doesn’t like for all of these problems and grievances to be left up to him to handle as he deems best — let’s help him on these things. When you remain away you miss the discussions of the different agents as to the new prob- lems that confront them at their station; you miss their explanation of how they Digitized by L-ooQie

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The Railroad Telegrapher. 811 handled them. Some day you will have sim- ilar problems at your station, and if you had been there and listened you would know just how to handle them immediately and probably prevent much trouble which might terminate in having to call for help from the auditor or the superintendent. Among the most interesting subjects of the meeting was the wage question which we hope will result in a nice little increase in' salaries. The question of help at several stations was thoroughly discussed and those agents who have not enough help to satisfactorily handle their station were instructed in the proper course to pursue. We fought hard to obtain an eight hour day contract and now that we have it, we should contend to maintain it We should give the company eight full hours per day of hard conscien- tious work and if we then do not finish all the work at our station, and the management does not allow us any over time, then quit right there and notify the management that your eight hours are up and that your sta- tion work is not finished for the day. An agent should have sufficient help to keep his station In an up to date condition. This would save a great many long trips for the traveling auditor, to straighten out an agent or help him catch up at the end of the month. Overwork and trying to rush it • through is largely responsible for many errors, and omission of entries on the reports and balance sheets. The car job matter was again brought up and left open for further negotiations with the management This should be brought to a conclusion at an early date. Every railroad in the United States has al- ways made their dispatchers and car men from men on the line and there is no reason this road should refuse this legitimate pro- motion. The men who remain with the com- pany and perform satisfactory service are entitled to it. Operator McCormick (anon) has been on the car job long enough. /~>.til he moves one way or the other the iijt of us are at a dead standstill. Bro. Milliams, second Southern Junction, is on ninety days’ leave visiting relatives in Kentucky. Bro. Hopkins is now with the freight de- partment as “city soliciting freight agent” in Nashville, relieved on first Watertown by Miss Mila Shoemake. Bro. Green is on Southern Junction. Bro. Johnson, second Crossville, is reliev- ing Bro. Simmerel for ninety days. A special invitation has been sent to all members to be present at the next regular meeting, June 20th (Sunday night). It’s going to be the biggest one we have ever had and no one can afford to miss it. The meeting in July, which falls on Sun- day, the 18th, is reunion night and every member and their wives and families Arc re- quested to attend. If you have no family bring your sweetheart and let’s enjoy a big night. Remember, brethren, do your duty aiid “No cards, no favors .” J. F. L., “Old X.’’ New Orleans Gt. Nor. R. R., Div. 179. “ Cleanliness is next to godliness ” We canft be gods,, but we can be clean. It seems the members of our division ap- preciate this fact, for general manager and party, on a recent inspection trip, gave us a very favorable report on the neat appear- ance of our stations. Would like to see more 179 members take part in the discussions of “Our Correspon- dents” department. Come in and get your share of the criticism or applause, as tne case may be. If you find fault with an article, take issue with the author, and give him " your side” of the case. Cbrt. 46. Chgo., T. Haute & So. Eastn., Div. ^180. Illinois Division — L. O. Osmon, to second West Dana; J. C. Lucas, third Delmar; W. H. Burke, second Johannott ; Jesse Mann, second Webster, and A. R. Gee, first Seymour. General Chairman Powell on a trip to Cal- ifornia, relieved by Bro. W. A. Ogden, and he at Latta by S. E. Kirke, a new man. Yours truly acting as general chairman dur- ing Bro. Powells’ absence. The meeting called by the writer at the Aetna Hotel, Danville, 111., May 15th, was attended by eleven members. It was decided to hold another meeting this month. Brothers, these meetings are of great benefit in getting us acquainted with each other and promoting our welfare. Send me some notes and we will try and have a write-up each month. A. R. Blythe, L. C. Mo. & No. Ark. Ry., Div. 182. Bro. Luter off a few days on account of the death of his 4 months’ baby and Bro. Brasfield was called to Dyersburg, Tenn., owing to the death of his grandmother. Bro. Robertson, Eureka Springs, is being relieved sixty days by H. K. Hull. Bro. Murphy is visiting Joplin, Springfield and other places. We wish him a pleasant time. Proposed increase presented general man- ager April 28th. Nothing agreed to. All papers forwarded to Bro. Manion for hand- ling with Labor Board. We are now about 98 per cent Get after the non next to you, brothers, and let’s have a solid division. “ No card , no favors and stick together. Ye scribe is back on GO. “Steve”, L. C., Cert. 61. Digitized by Google

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812 The Railroad Telegrapher. La. Ry. & Navigation Co., Div. 183. Our May write-up reached St. Louis too late to be published, being delayed enroute. Our division, organized just a little over a year, is still one hundred per cent ahead of any we know of today, and we aim to keep it that way. The “nons” can’t get by Bros. Latil and Reynolds. Our new contract was signed and in effect April 16th, one year and fifteen days from the time we got the first one. Everybody got something ; all the jobs put up about right ; all telegraph positions up to standard and some a little above. Operators in dispatch- er’s office, Shreveport and Baton Rouge, have to be capable to do extra dispatching, which makes it nice for them, as the dis- patchers get two days off a month with pay but no annual vacations, while dispatchers on other roads get one day off in every seven with pay and their annual vacation. Outside of this all jobs were made satisfac- tory, and everybody seems well pleased. Bro. Latil did all he could to get us what he did, fpr which we are very thankful. Third trick dispatcher, Bro. Burkhalter, Shreveport, has gone into the traffic depart- ment as commercial agent, with headquar- ters in Shreveport. He and Bro. Hayden were on the committee with Bro. Latil. Bro. Hag- gard is now regular third trick dispatcher at Shreveport, Bro. Heath breaking in to do extra work. Bro. Reynolds has returned and is now doing extra dispatching in Baton Rouge. We are glad to have him back with us. We all hated very' much to lose our standard rule man, but the company will em- ploy another man in that capacity at once, to Immediately go over the system and ex- amine all employes who do telegraphing and handle train orders on standard rules. Those not in a position to pass this examination are go^ng to be left, as you can not work elsewhere until you have first passed on these rules. We hope to see an immediate improvement in some of you now giving the poorest service possible on the train wires. Had it not been for the dispatchers on this system, you would be where you were over a year ago, and you don’t seem to know it Operators are very scarce here, and we can always use a few good ones. Trust we will have a correspondent by next issue, so we can get out some news as to what’s going on. Cert. 54. Digitized by tjOOQle

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t CRAND DIVISION Assessment No. 146 is due July 1f 1920 Time for payment expires August 31, 1920 AMOUNT OF ASSESSMENTS On | 300.00 (Series A) 92.40 per year On 600.00 (Series B) 3.B0 per year On 1,000.00 (Seriess C) 7.20 per year BENEFITS PAID IN MAY Claim No. Name Cause Div. Cert. Series Amount 3219 Enos K. Swart ley . . Cerebral hemorrhage . 10 55253 A $ 300.00 3220 Bert Cattley ...Influenza . 99 31971 A 300.00 3221 Louis D. Sisco . . .Accidental freezing .148 56476 A 300.00 3222 George F. Huy . . . Myocarditis . 10 22013 A 300.00 3223 John W. Armstrong. . . ...Influenza . 43 28775 B 500.00 3224 Archer L. Woody ...Cerebral hemorrhage . 13 49069 A 300.00 3225 Jerome R. Wisher . . . Accidentally asphyxiated .119 26139 C 1,000.00 3226 Leigh R. Ressegule ...Influenza . 53 52877 C 1.000.00 3227 F. G. Boutelle . . . Empyema . 8 15533 C 1,000.00 3228 Oscar W. Donahoo . . . Pulmonary tuberculosis . 49 69794 C 1,000.00 3229 William B. Lawson . . .Acute cerebral thrombosis. . . . . 3 58575 A 300.00 3230 Chas. L. McCubbin.... . . . Epilepsy . 17 37052 B 600.00 3232 Harold C. Flegal ...Acute pulmonary tuberculosis. .Gd 66802 C 1,000.00 3233 Edwin C. Bange . . . Myocarditis . 17 10058 c 1,000.00 3235 Fred G. Newell . . . Cerebral hemorrhage . 23 37514 A 300.00 3236 Craig G. Lambdin ...Railroad accident . 40 48695 A 300.00 3237 Chester R. King ...Sarcoma of testicle . 41 11890 B 500.00 3238 George W. Dunn . . . Tuberculosis . 15 50519 C 1,000.00 $10,900.00 FINANCIAL STATEMENT— MORTUARY FUND * Receipts $2, 583,137.14 2,854.60 57,330.61 Received on assessments to April 30. 1020 Received on assessments May, 1920 Interest $2,643,322.41 Disbursements Death claims paid to April 30, 1920 $2,039,427.47 Death claims paid in May, 1920 10,900.00 Assessments refunded account rejected applications 4,530.08 Assessments transferred to dues 414.59 Balance on hand credit Mortuary Fund May 31, 1920 688,050.27 $2,643,322.41 C. B. HAW LI NS, Secretary and Treasurer, Mutual Benefit Department. Digitized by Google

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When addressing our advertisers, please mention The Railroad Telegrapher. 0 m cIke PHILLIPS CODE A thoroughly tested Code of abbreviations, arranged for telegraphic purposes and contemplating the rapid transmission of press reports. Also intended to be used as an easily acquired method of short- hand for general newspaper and court reporting. MR. EUGENE E. BRUCKNER, the well-known press operator, has, under the authority of Walter P. Phillips and with the assistance of a number of officials and operators in the press service, thoroughly revised Phillips’ Code, and the new edition was ready for delivery on June 1, 1914. Mr. Bruckner was considered by Mr. Phillips the most competent authority to undertake this important work, and so satisfactorily has the task been accomplished that the finished book has received the stamp of ap- proval of the Associated Press, the United Press, the Publishers’ Press, and all other newspaper agencies, as well as the endorsement of press operators, well qualified to judge of the merits of the new book. A large number of officials and operators in the press service were also frequently consulted on the revision. The new book was desirable for the same reasons that makes necessary a revision of scientific text books with the progress of each decade. The whole object of the reviskrti has been to pro- mote greater accuracy and reduce memorizing to a minimum. Under the new system, an operator who knows the code for Assfot does not need to know the specific contraction for Consist, Desist, Insist , Persist , Resist , etc., for all are formed upon the same basis. Nor is it probable that the operator could make a mis- take in their translation if, by force of sheer will power, he tried. THE PRICE OF PHILLIPS’ CODE IS $1.25 Remit by post-office or express money order to C. B. RAWLINS ST. LOUIS, MO. Grand Secretary and Treasurer [GDI Digitized by Google

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When a/Jdressinp our advertiser® please mention The Railroad Telegrapher. Look! A Month And all of this for $3.50 per month — a great reduction in watch prices direct to you— a 21 jewel adjusted watch at a rock bottom price. Think of the high grade, guar- anteed watch we offer here at such a re- markable price. And, if you wish, you may pay this price at the rate of $3.50 a month. Indeed, the days of exorbitant watch prices have passed. See Kt Fi§***f Y°u don’t pay a cent to anybody •• • ■■ until vou see the watch. You don’t buy a Burlington Watch without seeing it. Look at the splendid beauty of the watch itself. Thin model, handsomely shaped — aristocratic in every line. Then look at the works! There you will see the masterpiece of the watch maker’s skill. A perfect time- piece adjusted to positions, temperature and isochronism. 21 Ruby and Sapphire Jewels— Adjusted to the second — Adjusted to temperature— Adjusted to isochronism — Adjusted to positions— 25-year gold strata case - Genuine Montgomery Railroad rial — New Ideas in Thin Cases. Practically every vessel in the U. S. Navy has many Burlington watches aboard. Some have over 100 Burlingtons. The victory of the Burlington among the men in the U. S. Navy is testimony to Burlington superiorty. Send Your Name on This Free Coupon / / Get the Burlington Watch Book by sending this coupon now. You will know a lot more about watch buying when you read it. You will be able to “steer clear” of the over-priced watches which are no better. ^ Send the coupon today for the watch book and our offer. / Burlington Watch Co. 19th St. and Marshall Blvd., Dept. A505 - Chicago, 111. Canadian Office: 355 Portage Are., Winnipeg, Manitoba Burlington Watch Co. „ 19th St. and Marshall Blvd. * Dept, a 50 5 Chicago, 111. Please send me (without obliga- tion and prepaid) your free book on watches with full explanation of your cash or $3.50 a month offer on the Burlington Watch. Name. . Address.. Digitized by Vj

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NEW ENAMEL Frame reatriped. r» lettered and NEW 1 SCALE FROST NEW NICKEL PLATE AH type. type hnr . etc NEW RUBBER FEET New thumb knob . new key Study These 10 important Rebuilt Features They Double the Life of My Underwood Typewriters All New Parti Where the Wear Comes Every Machine Tested and Shipped Perfect BACK SPACER Wo equip our muc-hiri*-.-* with L 1 mm will Rent or Sell You My Standard ,lih> Me* Underwoods with a 5 Year Guarantee I offer lihrral discounts on your old machines or rebuild them like new at money la.in* prices Beside-* the 10 features esplu.ri.-d aljovt* I • .ud,.-r an la?fn-. ul-.u- ii Type writer Irr-I ru.-r mn I'- '-k - all f v r t>. kr.ow the facta That’s why I say — u - huiit) L u.h-rv. uiMJii befur. vnu pay and pro%'e it to y our- -If Then after you huv. I guaran- tee every machine for Five Y- at I v monthly rates, then if you decide, after su month* to buy. l il a'inw you five months’ rent and deduct it from rat low pri ■■ irld 'Y t for rush, or got one on easy payments. But do* ;,t on ■ —ask fur full facts now. Learn how 1 save you big morey- j mad the coupon today. Send Coupon at Once and Save Big Money. Get the Facts NOW in rebuilding typewriter* make my (rebuilt C. years exj>. j.-r-tal or s,-nd thir- ^7 Send roe at once your I owjn** n-BUl ACT QUICK & offpr- renUl and agency plu!**- ■ if you want one. Get busy now. Z7V. /y N ame E W. S. SHIPMAN. Z7 President J? St nr K F D. No •TYPEWRITER EMPORIUM Estib’oihed Over a Quarter cf a Century 31-36 W. Lake St., Chicago City ... ■ Remember I Back My Underwoodi WUU My FIVE YEAR GUARANTEE LETTERING -*nt ud you These 10 big, i n i p 1 1 1 taut, rebuilt features make it possible for you to buy a just-like- ^ new standard. visible writing Underwood at special low prices. Act quick— investigate and leam how you can get 100 typewriter efficiency at a big discount. My (rebuilt) standard Underw* i. ids a: NEW - r Digitized by Google

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