Steve Manos,John Ehli, Scott Mason, Emma Ehli, Craig Woodard,Ron Seitz, Bill Spell, Jim Norton and Ron Magden
On March 22, 1986 the Tacoma local held their first memorial service for the 1886 founding members as well as for pensioners, widows and actives who passed away in 1986. Dozens of old timers and actives from Tacoma and Seattle attended. Every March 22 since 1986, Local 23 has gathered to pay homage to the founders and those who left us in that year.
During Tacoma’s 125th anniversary celebration, the last of 23 new grave markers for the founders will be installed. The charter members were from many nationalities—American, African, South American and Hawaiian. On the morning of March 22, 1886, they struck the ship Ivy for recognition of their new union. They also bought a section of Old Tacoma Cemetery that they named The Sky Gang. The accident rate in the early years was horrendous. Seven of the 23 were killed on the job.
Tacoma Local 23’s grave marker committee is made up of actives and pensioners who have worked for three years to fundraise for the markers replacement and settings. They have designed and sold union made t-shirts with historical photos. Also, individuals and families have donated $400 each toward the project. Benefactors will be listed on the final marker. On the front of the final marker will be a depiction of the Ivy and its history by Dr. Ron Magden, honorary member.
– Holly Hulscher, Local 23