Civil Rights & Labor History Consortium | Photo and Document Gallery | 1919 Seattle General Strike | Waitress Union Local 240, first headquarters

Founded in 1900, the Seattle Waitress's Union won the 8 hour day and 6 day week for white female servers Seattle Waitress’ Union, Local 240 1st Location: 520 2nd Avenue 2nd Location: 209 James Street 3rd Location: 1420 2nd Avenue The Seattle Waitress’ Union, Local 240 was formed on March 23, 1900 by Alice Lord. This all white union was one of the first women’s unions to be chartered by the American Federation of Labor. Under the direction of Alice Lord, the Seattle Waitress’ Union is accredited with establishing the 8 hour work day and 6 hour work week for all female servers. The Seattle Waitress’ Union was also successful in their fight for a state sanctioned minimum wage. Photo courtesy Arkady DeRoest 520 2nd Ave.

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