110 years of Steamfitters 449 is worth a grand celebration! Saturday, November 11th, Local 449 held their 110 Year Anniversary Celebration at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. With 1,200 people in attendance, apprentices, members, and retirees gathered together to celebrate this milestone. Local 449 members,past and present,with their families, local leaders and representatives from other local unions dined together on a delicious meal that also included the commemorative Steamfitters Beer thanks to Iron City Brewing.  

Local 449 President, Joseph Beardsley, started off the celebration with a speech: “What an amazing night with amazing people celebrating an amazing milestone. We’re here to celebrate 110 years of unity. Our forefathers would marvel at the accomplishments we’ve achieved over the last 110 Years. Our commitment to training, coupled with a profound spirit of brotherhood and unwavering solidarity is a testament to the world of who we are.May this evening be as wonderful as the journey we’ve shared together. And may the strength and prosperity of this union continue for another 110 Years”. 

President Joseph Beardsley wasn’t the only one to provide a memorable speech at the celebration. Local 449 Business Manager, Kenneth Broadbent, also spoke on behalf of the union saying, “Whether you’re a steamfitter or in another trade here, we owe everything to our local organization. We’re here to celebrate making a middle class way of life..” In closing, Mr. Broadbent finished his speech with a toast asking everyone to, “Please raise your glasses with me. God Bless Local 449!” 

Local 449 was chartered on May 13th, 1913. We have promoted workers rights and carried on a tradition of providing quality work that has built the foundation of our country. Over the last 110 years, our organization has provided our members with a middle class way of life, free education, retirement options, health benefits and a true sense of community. Cheers to another 110 years of Steamfitters!