In a recent ceremony in Waycross, Georgia, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) officially rechartered its local chapter as “Local 1,” restoring a title that connects the group to its origins in 1888. The move changes the designation from IAM Local 625, which had been in use since the chapter’s original chartering in 1933.
Union officials said this decision is intended to honor the legacy of the union’s founders. The first meeting of what would become IAM took place in a railroad pit in Atlanta under Thomas Talbot’s leadership, with 19 machinists present. The restoration of the “Local 1” title is seen as a tribute to these beginnings and an effort to reinforce ties between current members and their historical roots.
Curtis W. Taylor, a retired machinist who spent over forty years working on railroads after being hired in 1967, stated that the renaming was overdue. He noted that Waycross’s local “should have been [Number 1] all the time,” pointing out its direct connection to Georgia, where IAM was founded.
Currently based in Waycross, Local 1 represents more than 250 members who primarily work on railroads throughout the Southeastern United States. The chapter supports workers involved with freight operations and locomotive maintenance across the region.
As part of the re-chartering events, union leaders visited CSX Transportation’s locomotive facility and service center in Waycross—a key site for building and maintaining locomotives vital for national freight movement. Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the International President; Reece Murtagh, President and Directing General Chair of District 19; and Jason Gibbs, General Chair, toured the facility. They met with members, discussed workplace conditions with management, and observed daily operations.
Reece Murtagh described Local 1 as both “strong” and “fighting,” highlighting how important it is for leadership to stay connected with members and uphold high standards at work.
The union hall used by Local 1 is itself historic—a former church bought collectively by members. It is now owned outright by them and recognized by the Waycross Historical Society as part of local heritage.
Jamie Crews, President and Local Chair of Local 1, expressed pride about continuing traditions dating back to 1888. Crews also thanked international auditing committees and executive boards for their support during this transition period.
Union leaders emphasized that changing back to “Local 1” goes beyond administrative adjustments—it restores historical continuity by linking today’s membership directly with those who started IAM over a century ago. This act underscores both heritage and ongoing commitment within Waycross’s labor community.
