Episode
Detroit Streetcar Workers Unionize, Riot, & Win | May 12
- Podcast
- Michigan Minute
- Published
- May 12, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 60
- Processing state
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Summary
On this day in 1891, Detroit’s streetcar employees unionized. Starting in April, local transit workers picketed the Detroit Street Railway and Grand River Railway companies, leading to a violent 3-day riot. They sought a 10-hour workday instead of 12. After Mayor Hazen Pingree intervened, an agreement was reached on May 12, recognizing the new union.