Move on or be Clubbed: The Jacksonville Streetcar strike of 1912

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On Tuesday, September 18 at the Old St. Andrew's Church (the one across the street from the Arena and next to the Baseball Grounds), 317 A. Phillip Randolph Boulevard, there will be a program presented by the Jacksonville Historical Society with guest speaker Robert Cassanello, Ph.D. From the flyer I received in the mail today:

On October 28, 1912, streetcar motormen and conductors of the Jacksonville Traction Company went on strike. Soon the strike evolved into one of the most violent labor disturbances in city history. Violence along streetcar tracks in the city's downtown and in outlying neighborhoods threatened both operators and passengers. Tracks were ripped up, and gunfire was directed into passing streetcars. By November 1, nearly the entire military force of Florida was on duty in Jacksonville. Editorial cartoons of the day clearly dished up the local government sentiment - and perhaps the newspaper's sentiment - against the strikers (those damned unions!)

University of Central Florida history professor, Dr. Robert Cassanello, presents a riveting account of the city's 1912 labor dispute. Free parking is available in the lot behind the Merrill House, or park along Duval Street. Security will be on duty, guests are welcome, for more information, please call 665-0064.