From The Indianapolis Star, Monday, January 19, 1914: Approximately 1,200 workers at a mass meeting in Tomlinson Hall yesterday afternoon heard speakers call for establishing a co-operative department store in Indianapolis. “Next to wages, a co-operative store is the best thing for the laborer….With a great advance in the cost of necessities, it is paramount the workers cooperate so that they can get more returns for their money,” said Daniel J. Tobin, president, International Teamsters Union. He asserted wages paid in Indianapolis were lower than many other cities, but added the cost of living was as great. E. S. Phillips, organizer in the movement, declared the sale of stock was encouraging, and hundreds of men and women were now out canvassing the city. With concerted work, sufficient stock could be sold by Feb. 20 to turn the deal.
If you would like a collection of these “100 Years Ago this Week” the Bona Thompson Memorial Center, 5350 E. University (Irvington) has the last 3 years in 3 booklets – $10 per set. They are open Wed. 1-3pm, Sat. & Sun.1-4pm. All proceeds benefit the Irvington Historical Society.