T he Painters Union, like many modern labor unions, was founded in the 19th century. It was born out of a desire to set standards for uniform compensation in the trades as well as to provide a community for workers to share ideas and solve industry problems.

The early days of the union brought many challenges including harsh rejection from employers, hostility from local police, economic downturns, much dissent internally. The union faced the problems head on and grew stronger.

The precursor to our union, the Brotherhood of Painters and Decorators of America was organized in 1887. Within a year the union boasted a membership of over 7,000 tradesmen and more than 100 local unions.

The trade unionists, backed by a growing centralized union, won victories over oppressive working conditions that were once thought unchangeable.

Attempting to whittle down the long hours and daily grind, the union won a half-day on Saturday for most of its members.

By the end of World War I, the Painters Union successfully established the eight-hour work day and the five day workweek.