Monroe in Monroe County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
"Newton" Strike
Photographed By Don Morfe, July 18, 2013
1. "Newton" Strike Marker
Inscription.
"Newton" Strike. . In spring 1937, the eyes of the nation were on Monroe. The Steel Workers Organizing Committee had organized a handful of workers at Republic’s Newton facility. On June 10, about 120 pickets confronted over 1,000 non-unionized workers and “special deputies” armed with bats and clubs. When efforts failed to resolve the tensions, the “citizen army” fired tear gas, stormed the picket line, set ablaze the strikers’ ‘kitchen,’ and dumped their cars into the river. The pickets scattered, and the non-union plant was reopened. This event was a major setback for organized labor. Republic left its outmoded Newton operation in 1942. In 1947, Kelsey-Hays, which owned the facility, recognized UAW Local #723.
In spring 1937, the eyes of the nation were on Monroe. The Steel Workers Organizing Committee had organized a handful of workers at Republic’s Newton facility. On June 10, about 120 pickets confronted over 1,000 non-unionized workers and “special deputies” armed with bats and clubs. When efforts failed to resolve the tensions, the “citizen army” fired tear gas, stormed the picket line, set ablaze the strikers’ ‘kitchen,’ and dumped their cars into the river. The pickets scattered, and the non-union plant was reopened. This event was a major setback for organized labor. Republic left its outmoded Newton operation in 1942. In 1947, Kelsey-Hays, which owned the facility, recognized UAW Local #723.
Erected by Monroe County Historical Commission.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Labor Unions. A significant historical month for this entry is June 1550.
Location. 41° 54.582′ N, 83° 22.535′ W. Marker is in Monroe, Michigan, in Monroe County. Marker is on East Elm Avenue west of Detroit - Toledo Expressway (ramp) (Interstate 75), on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Monroe MI 48162, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The 2nd Battle of the River Raisin (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also
View looking southwest across River Raisin at Hellenberg Park
Credits. This page was last revised on April 1, 2021. It was originally submitted on August 10, 2013, by Don Morfe of Baltimore, Maryland. This page has been viewed 892 times since then and 61 times this year. Photos:1, 2. submitted on August 10, 2013, by Don Morfe of Baltimore, Maryland. 3. submitted on March 31, 2021, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. • Al Wolf was the editor who published this page.
