The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has officially rechartered its Waycross, Georgia-based local as “Local 1,” restoring a title that dates back to the union’s founding in 1888. The ceremony, held in Waycross, was described by union leaders as an effort to reclaim the IAM’s historical identity.
The redesignation honors the original group of 19 machinists who met in Atlanta under Thomas Talbot to establish what would become one of the largest rail unions globally. Previously known as Local 625 since its chartering in 1933, the local carried that designation for nearly a century before this change.
Curtis W. Taylor, a retired machinist with over forty years of service, commented on the significance of the renaming: “should have been [Number 1] all the time,” referencing Georgia’s role in the union’s origins.
Local 1 currently represents more than 250 members and serves railroad workers throughout the Southeastern United States. Its activities focus on supporting freight operations and locomotive maintenance across the region.
As part of the re-chartering events, union officials visited CSX Transportation’s locomotive facility and service center in Waycross. This site is recognized for its role in producing and maintaining locomotives essential to national freight transportation.
Among those attending were Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the International President; Reece Murtagh, President and Directing General Chair of District 19; and Jason Gibbs, General Chair. During their visit, they toured shop floors, met with members, discussed working conditions with management, and observed daily operations.
Murtagh highlighted Local 1’s reputation: “strong” and “fighting” Local. He stressed that leadership must keep direct contact with members to uphold workplace standards.
Local 1 operates from a historic union hall—a former church purchased collectively by its members—which is now owned outright and recognized by the Waycross Historical Society. This underscores both its longstanding presence and commitment within the community.
Jamie Crews, President and Local Chair of Local 1, expressed gratitude for support from international auditing committees and executive boards during this transition: “We are proud to carry forward our tradition from 1888.”
Union leaders emphasized that this change restores historical continuity rather than serving as an administrative update. By reconnecting with its origins through this new charter designation, IAM aims to reinforce its legacy while continuing support for railroad workers across the Southeast.
For many members in Waycross, adopting the Local 1 title is seen as both recognition of heritage and a renewed commitment—reflecting how an organization founded over a century ago remains relevant for today’s machinists.
