Tag Archives: Consolidated Lumber Company

Timberworkers Strike of 1920

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White Marble Lime Company shingle mill workers

      In April of 1920, the vast majority of men employed in the timber industry in Manistique were required to work ten hours per day, six days per week. The International Timberworkers Union District No. 2, headquartered in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, warned industry executives of a strike by its members if certain demands were not met. These included: an eight hour work day; minimum wage of $100.00 per month; board for men in the woods; no overtime, Sunday or holiday work; a wage of $5.00 per day for men driving logs on the rivers; pay dates twice per month; abolition of contracts, piece work and bonus systems; and recognition of the union. Read More...

WWI Remembrance – The Home Front

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     With America’s entry into World War I in April of 1917, life changed dramatically for citizens across the country, including those living in Schoolcraft County. A series of sweeping war regulations were established by the administration of Woodrow Wilson regarding food, fuel, the financing of the war effort, the treatment of “enemy aliens” and the stifling of dissent.

     The United States Food Administration sought to conserve foods such as beef, pork and wheat through voluntary action. Staples like sugar and flour were rationed. George Nicholson, of the White Marble Lime Company, was appointed as local food administrator. Monday, Wednesday and one meal daily were designated as wheatless. Tuesday and one meal daily was to be meatless. Saturday was porkless. The edicts from the Food Administration were published weekly in the Pioneer Tribune, with compliance being achieved through social pressure. Every family was expected to prominently display the Food Administration emblem in their home. Read More...

Hotel Ossawinamkee-Manistique, MI 1883-1960

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The ownership of the Hotel Ossawinamkee began with the Chicago Lumber Company. In 1915, the Consolidated Lumber Company sold the hotel to Lewis Mallette who ran it for many years. The hotel was in business from 1883 through the 1950’s, except during World War II, and was torn down in 1960. During it’s glory years, many famous individuals stayed at the hotel including Henry Ford and his friends.