Virtual ExhibitsTitle:
COMMEMORATIVE RIBBON
Date:
ca. 1905
Source:
Gift of Myrtle Backen Smith
Object ID:
1996.83.10
Description:
The Speculator-Granite Mountain Mine fire on June 8, 1917 resulted in the death of an estimated 168 miners.
Dear Pet: We are all waiting for the end... I guess it won't be long... Try not to worry, I know you will, But trust in God, everything will come out all right." -J.D. Moore, note found in pocket when his body was recovered from the Speculator Mine
The disaster fueled an ongoing conflict between workers who toiled under dangerous conditions and companies who profited on the copper and zinc used in ammunitions. Montana's governor called in the National Guard to suppress labor strikes and anit-war demonstrations.
The battle of Butte's working class continued even after the war ended. Troops were stationed in the city off and on through 1921.
Unions fought for improved working conditions. They also served as centers for community life and social support. This ribbon belonged to Gunder Backen, a naturalized citizen of Norwegian descent.
Dear Pet: We are all waiting for the end... I guess it won't be long... Try not to worry, I know you will, But trust in God, everything will come out all right." -J.D. Moore, note found in pocket when his body was recovered from the Speculator Mine
The disaster fueled an ongoing conflict between workers who toiled under dangerous conditions and companies who profited on the copper and zinc used in ammunitions. Montana's governor called in the National Guard to suppress labor strikes and anit-war demonstrations.
The battle of Butte's working class continued even after the war ended. Troops were stationed in the city off and on through 1921.
Unions fought for improved working conditions. They also served as centers for community life and social support. This ribbon belonged to Gunder Backen, a naturalized citizen of Norwegian descent.
Click to Enlarge
Commemorative Ribbon, 1996.83.10 (front)
Commemorative Ribbon, 1996.83.10 (back)
Commemorative Ribbon, 1996.83.10 (front)
Commemorative Ribbon, 1996.83.10 (back)
