Ironworkers History & Resources

Chapter 5

The Beginning of the Morrin Era — 1918 Through 1929

Chapter 5, The Beginning of the Morrin Era, marks a period of rebuilding, resilience, and renewed direction for the International. Covering the years 1918 through 1929 and spanning the 12th through 23rd International Conventions, this chapter introduces the leadership of General President Paul J. Morrin, whose tenure would extend for more than three decades. Taking office in the aftermath of the conspiracy trials, Morrin inherited a union facing uncertainty, external opposition, and the challenge of restoring stability and trust. His leadership would prove critical in guiding the organization through one of the most transformative eras in its history.

In the years that followed, Morrin and the union were forced to confront a wide range of ongoing struggles. Jurisdictional disputes with the Carpenters Union over pile driving work, shipyard rigging, and reinforcing continued to test the strength and resolve of the organization. At the same time, broader labor conflicts shook the nation, including the Great Steel Strike of 1919, a massive effort by workers to secure union recognition and improved conditions in one of America’s most powerful industries. These challenges were compounded by the growing influence of employer backed initiatives such as the “American Plan,” in which over 200 open shop associations united with the goal of weakening and ultimately eliminating organized labor.

Adding to this already difficult landscape was internal and ideological pressure from groups like the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) and the emergence of so-called “White Card” Ironworkers, whose actions threatened to divide the workforce and undermine union strength, particularly on the West Coast, where some locals faced near collapse. Despite these obstacles, this chapter highlights how strong leadership, unity, and perseverance allowed the Ironworkers to endure and move forward. The Morrin Era became a turning point in which the union not only survived adversity, but laid the groundwork for future growth, stability, and continued solidarity.