Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 19, Number 8, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 1 October 1897 — END OF THE GENERAL STRIKE. [ARTICLE]

END OF THE GENERAL STRIKE.

President Ratchford Reviews the Victory of the Coal Miners. M. D. Ratchford, President of the United Mine Workers of America, has given out the following authorized statement: About 75,000 miners have resumed work in the bituminous coal fields of the central states. The strike generally has ended. This Is the middle of the twelfth week of Its duration. The mining situation Is not likely to become disturbed again until ths beginning of next year, at which time we hope to be able to settle wage differences amicably and without the necessity of a strike. It Is well understood that the fight will continue from the present time In all fields and against all operators who refuse to meet the rates. The greatest trouble will be found In West Virginia and a portion of Illinois. I am still hopeful, however, that the producers in those fields will conform to the change and put their mines In operation. Failing to do this, we will fight them as we have done until the beginning of next year, at which time It Is said their present contracts will expire. I am well satisfied with the agreement reached and feci that it Is the greatest victory gained by trade unions for years. Of course, the victory Is not altogether one of the miners. While they have done the striking, trade unions and organized bodies have supplied the necessaries, without which the miners could not possibly succeed. It is a victory for organized labor and not for any particular trade, and we want our friends who have helped us to feel that It Is their victory as well as ours. 1 feel very grateful for the assistance given us by the American Federation of Labor and the kindly disposition shown us at all times by Mr. Gompers and .the members of his executive committee.