Allard, Gerry, 1908-1965.

Dates:
Birth 1908
Death 1965

Biographical notes:

Coal miner, union activist, socialist, writer and businessman.

Born in France, the son of a coal miner, his family emigrated to Illinois in 1912. Allard began working in the coal mines at Dowell, Illinois, at age fifteen. In opposition to actions by John L. Lewis, president of the United Mine Workers of America, Allard helped organize the Progressive Mine Workers of America in 1932. He edited the union's The Progressive Miner from 1932 to 1933, when he had disagreements with the union over editorial policies. He then published The Fighting Miner, representing left-wing miners, in Springfield, Illinois, from 1934 to 1936. From 1938 to 1940 Allard edited The Socialist Call. He then became a travelling shoe salesman, until his retirement in 1963. Allard never lost his interest in workers' rights, and advocated liberal causes. He was married to Irene Walley, with whom he had one son.

From the description of Papers, 1928-1965 (bulk 1933-1943) (Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library). WorldCat record id: 25023469

Links to collections

Comparison

This is only a preview comparison of Constellations. It will only exist until this window is closed.

  • Added or updated
  • Deleted or outdated

Information

Permalink:
SNAC ID:

Subjects:

  • Coal miners
  • Labor journalism
  • Miners
  • Socialism

Occupations:

not available for this record

Places:

  • Illinois (as recorded)
  • United States (as recorded)
We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies, Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.