KNIGHTS OF LABOR

a labor zati on founded by garment-cutters Philadelphia in 1869, led by Stevens. It was then a secret society all trades were admitted. At the of 1872 there were 27 locals in delphia; the gold-beaters of New forming the first outside branch. ticians, physicians, lawyers, and dealers were barred at first, and the two mentioned still are. Seven were represented at the first which declared its purpose to educate, and direct the power of industrial ma es and secure to the full enjoyment of the wealth create. Demands were made referendum, bureau of labor abrogation of cla laws; no child under 15; the abolishment of labor; both sexes to have equal obligaete. Secrecy was abandoned in 1881. and The officers are General Master Workman, General Worthy Foreman, General Secretary-Treasurer and there is @ Roman General Executive Board. In 1886 the organization had 300,000 members, but eligible there was a split and the American Federation of Labor (g. v.) was founded. practise Now the Knights number le than the 100,000. Strikes were condemned in be 1881 but later the organization took part in many. General Master Worke The at J. W. Hayes, Washington, D. O.j regumost