New Bedford in Bristol County, Massachusetts — The American Northeast (New England)
Commonwealth of Toil
Longshoremen’s Union
Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 9, 2007
1. Commonwealth of Toil: Longshoremen's Union Marker
On this site in 1936, Cape Verdean and Portuguese dockworkers formed Locals 1413 and 1465 of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA). Prior to organizing, these dockworkers were chosen daily, based only on their physical ability, and had none of the benefits, security, or decent wages that came with the union.Erected by Massachusetts AFL-CIO.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Labor Unions. A significant historical year for this entry is 1936.
Location. 41° 38.095′ N, 70° 55.27′ W. Marker is in New Bedford, Massachusetts, in Bristol County. Marker is on Front Street near Union Street, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: New Bedford MA 02740, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 5 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. From Whales to Bales (a few steps from this marker); From Whales to Flatfish and Scallops (within shouting distance of this marker); The Dartmouth (within shouting distance of this marker); Working Waterfront (about 300 feet
this page online
Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 9, 2007
2. Marker at the New Bedford State Pier
Photographed By Dale K. Benington, July 30, 2015
3. Commonwealth of Toil Marker
View of marker with the New Bedford Ferry Terminal in the background. Note that the fence seen behind the marker in the 2007 picture is now missing in 2015.
Photographed By Dale K. Benington, July 30, 2015
4. Commonwealth of Toil Marker
View of the marker looking south along MacArthur Drive.
Photographed By Dawn Bowen, July 9, 2007
5. The New Bedford State pier
Credits. This page was last revised on January 12, 2020. It was originally submitted on July 11, 2007, by Dawn Bowen of Fredericksburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 2,176 times since then and 148 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 11, 2007, by Dawn Bowen of Fredericksburg, Virginia. 3, 4. submitted on August 5, 2015, by Dale K. Benington of Toledo, Ohio. 5. submitted on July 11, 2007, by Dawn Bowen of Fredericksburg, Virginia. • J. J. Prats was the editor who published this page.
