Learning about the struggles and victories of the past will help members and
nonmembers alike appreciate the contributions Teamsters made not only to labor history
but to American history.
For over a hundred years the International Brotherhood of Teamsters have been a major
contributor to establishing a working middle class, better pay, benefits and retirement
plans for employees across the nation. Since the origin of our local we have continued
that history of success. Our local has origins in two different downstate locals, 532
and 916. Teamsters Local 532 of Springfield was chartered in 1925. In 1943 Teamsters
local 916 was chartered in Collinsville. Later these two locals merged to form what is
now known as Local 916 based in Springfield, Illinois.
Local 916’s history is rich and colorful, full of victories and some disappointing
moments. The current state of our local today –a new hall finished in 2009, experienced
and knowledgeable business agents, and a supportive, strong membership - is a direct
result and dedication to our past.
Please read on the following pages to learn more about Local 916’s history. |