Pullman Strike and Boycott of 1894 The depression of 1893 led to wage cuts in the Pullman factory, but not to corresponding reductions in rent and utilities in the town of Pullman. After these charges had been deducted from workers' paychecks, they were often not worth cashing. Above, a check to O. Millett for twelve cents. (CHS) The U.S. economy declined in 1893-94, causing a nationwide depression. To offset any losses to his investors and himself, Pullman drastically cut productivity in his factory and reduced wages by one-third without reducing rents, utility charges, or store prices. Since he deducted rent (approximately $14 per month) before paying wages (approximately $16 per month postreduction), workers found themselves taking home scant pay for their labor, if any at all. The press censured Eugene V. Debs for taking a stand with the Pullman workers. (CHS) Soon desperate Pullman workers and their families begged the company -and Pullman himself- to reduce rents during the tight economic times, but their pleas fell on deaf ears. In spring 1894, many Pullman workers turned for help to the American Railway Union (ARU), led by Eugene V. Debs. After Pullman refused to discuss employee concerns, 90 percent of his workers went on strike on May 11. ARU was sympathetic and called for a national blockade and work stoppage against all railroads using Pullman cars. Railroad management responded by firing all ARU members. This sketch from the Harper's Weekly of July 14, 1894, shows deputies trying to move an engine and car in Blue Island on July 2. (CHS)

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Al Capone - Chicago Black Sox - A Century of Progress - Chicago Fire
The World's Columbian Exposition - Parades, Protests and Politics
The Pullman Era - The Stockyards
Fort Dearborn (Coming Soon!)

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