Galveston (Texas) Screwmen's Benevolent Association

The Screwmen’s Benevolent Association formed on the night of September 11, 1866, modeled after a similar group in New Orleans. These specialized longshoremen known as screwmen used screwjacks to stow and pack cotton bales into ships. The association set high standards for membership, considering an applicant’s physical fitness level, skill, character and health; they denied applications from black longshoremen and would not allow their members to work for anyone who employed them on their ship.

The association had become the largest, strongest union in the Galveston area by 1875. They continually worked to improve their image and prestige in the Galveston community, hosting events such as picnics, parades and balls.

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