On December 19, 1919, Local 793 of the International Union of Operating Engineers was granted its charter by General President Milton Snellings, just eight days after eleven men met at the Elliott House Hotel in Toronto to improve their working conditions. Led by International Representative Frank Healey, they wrote a letter requesting a charter to form a new local chapter for hoisting engineers.

Heritage plaque
A plaque at the corner of Church and Shuter Streets in Toronto marks the former Elliott House Hotel site.

General President Snellings approved the request, and IUOE Local 793 was officially established.

Now, 105 years later, the legacy of their dedication continues, as members of IUOE Local 793 continue to benefit from the sacrifices and foresight of their founding members. Their commitment to improving working conditions and securing fair wages has positively impacted thousands of families and will continue for generations.

Let us honour their sacrifices and build on Local 793’s enduring legacy.

Click the video below to reflect on the Union’s last five years as we celebrate its 105th anniversary.