John L. Lewis' Union Badge

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John L. Lewis's convention badge

Object Details

referenced

United Mine Workers of America

associated person

Lewis, John L.

maker

United Mine Workers of America

Description

John L. Lewis, one of America's foremost labor leaders, wore this badge at the 1936 United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) convention. It is a metal gold-colored pin with "President" printed in blue. A red, white, and blue ribbon attaches badge to pin. The badge features a gold-colored relief of the U.S. Capitol Building with an eagle perched on a shield. “UMW ORG 1890” is printed in blue at the bottom.

Born in an Iowa coal-mining camp, Lewis went to work in the mines as a teenager. He rose quickly as a labor leader, becoming president of the UMWA in 1920, and later helped found the Congress of Industrial Organizations. Lewis led a successful struggle to organize industrial workers, improving wages, safety, and benefits.

associated date

1936

ID Number

1989.0693.3777

catalog number

1989.0693.3777

accession number

1989.0693

Object Name

badge

Physical Description

metal (overall material)

fabric (overall material)

Measurements

overall: 9.5 cm x 5 cm; 3 3/4 in x 1 15/16 in

associated place

United States: District of Columbia

Related Publication

Kendrick, Kathleen M. and Peter C. Liebhold. Smithsonian Treasures of American History

See more items in

Political History: Political History, Reform Movements Collection

Government, Politics, and Reform

Work

Industry & Manufacturing

National Treasures exhibit

Exhibition

American Enterprise

Exhibition Location

National Museum of American History

Data Source