Identity area
Reference code
AU NBAC S338
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1 box
Context area
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Biographical history
Represents painters and workers in allied trades in the United States and Canada.
Unionization of house painters dates back to the mid-nineteenth century, but a permanent national organisation did not emerge until the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators was formed in 1887. In 1890, the union was renamed the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators, and Paperhangers of America. Its headquarters were located in Baltimore, Maryland. By 1894, the Union had divided into two factions, and by 1900, the Baltimore faction lost power to the Lafayette, Indiana faction, and the national headquarters were moved to Lafayette.
As the union expanded during the twentieth century, it extended its representation to new trades. Sign painters and scenic artists were brought into the union in 1900. In 1915, unions representing decorative glass workers merged with the BPD & PA. Eventually unorganized workers employed by paint and varnish manufacturers were accepted as members of the national organization. In 1969, the Union's title became the International Brotherhood of Painters and Allied Trades. In 2000 the name became the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. The international headquarters of the union are presently located in Hanover, Maryland.
Repository
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Washington. The official journal of the Brotherhood of Painters, Decorators and Paperhangers of America
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Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Open access