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Remarkable Ohio - United Mine Workers of America
 
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On January 22, 1890, delegates from the National Progressive Union and the Knights of Labor Trade Assembly No. 135 met at the old Columbus City Hall. Ending years of feuding among miners, the two groups merged into the United Mine Workers of America, or UMWA.

The UMWA campaigned to bring to the coal mines better wages, safe working conditions, and the eight-hour work day.

Their national headquarters was at High and Chestnut streets in Columbus until 1898.

Notable leaders of this group include John Mitchell, who was responsible for the spread of the UMWA across America and Canada, and John L. Lewis, who raised living standards and improved health care delivery during his 40 years as president.

Today, the United Mine Workers of America is a growing union that includes coal miners, clean coal technicians, health care workers, truck drivers, manufacturing workers and public employees throughout the U.S. and Canada.
September 6, 2011