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- Description:
- Lee talks about standing in a line that ran four blocks to the elementary school to apply and being hired in September 1977. He describes his impression of the size of the plant, his first jobs and discovering they were not as easy as they looked. Lee tells about finishing college, being a per diem supervisor, and watching Sexton High School football games from the factory roof.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-17T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- James Cataline talks about working for the REO Motor Car Company, in Lansing, MI, as a timekeeper during World War Two and later becoming Parts Department General Manager in 1967 when REO became Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc. Cataline reminisces fondly about the social life at REO and the terrible emotional damage its closing had on workers and the Greater Lansing community. He also describes the demolition of the REO Clubhouse and the later fire that destroyed the plant, events which, to him, drove home the end of an era. Cataline is interviewed by Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-05-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Wayne Nunheimer recalls his career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1945 to 1975. He talks about his father working for REO, the REO Clubhouse, the 1937 strike, the company in the post-war period, his job as a spot welder, lawnmower production, piecework and the beautiful REO Flying Cloud automobile. Nunheimer also recalls the mergers which led to the end of the company, ongoing legal battles in bankruptcy, and says how fortunate workers were to have union representation and what a positive influence the union was in the plant. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-06-18T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Mark describes being hired in November 1984 after working at Lindel Drop Forge and Jet Die & Engineering. He describes the differences between Fisher and his other workplaces and his motive for coming to Fisher. Mark talks about the duties of a toolmaker, life in the plant, overtime, and relations with management and production.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-14T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dave talks about his life prior to joining Fisher, of being hired in March 1977 and going to work in the Paint Shop. Dave describes learning to paint cars and having nightmares of painting cars. He tells about his union activity including his duties as committeeman, a typical committee call, dealing with supervisors, and his appointment first to UAW Training Representative then UAW Joint Activities Rep.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-03T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Gus Caliacatsos, owner of Gus's Bar on Michigan Avenue, discusses his life and career as a Greek immigrant, his life in Greece, the Greek army, coming to America in 1962, and hiring into Fisher Body in 1963. Gus describes his first day on job, learning English, receiving a suggestion award, and union threats. He left Fisher and went to work at Harry's Bar owned by another Greek immigrant. Gus quit after 8.5 years and pursued other business interests. He returned to Lansing and opened Gus's Bar in 1982. Gus describes relations with patrons who were primarily the UAW Fisher workers from across Michigan Ave.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-02-22T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dona Jean describes working at other GM plants in Lansing before coming to Fisher in 1994. She discusses learning about unionism at Fisher and the start of her union and political activism. She talks about life on the second shift, family issues, lay-off, sexism, and meeting her husband at a union meeting. Dona Jean discusses being elected Recording Secretary and other accomplishments.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Doreen describes being hired at Fisher in November 1984 after receiving a degree from MSU. She expresses surprise at the diversity and at the male dominated environment. Doreen talks about the stress on her marriage, the lack of control over ones job, and her naivety about factory life. She remarks about the number of college-educated people working in the plant. Doreen talks about the Suggestions Plan and her nontraditional job assignment.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-22T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Betty talks about her Russian-Jewish ancestry, leaving home in Toronto at 16 to avoid cultural obligations, and coming to the U.S. She hired into Fisher in 1946 and again in May 1948. Betty talks about factory life for the few women including lower pay, harder work, community restrooms, and stereotypical perceptions of factory women. Betty shares her opinion of the union and management, describes her union activity, smoking, strikes, layoffs, and paying union dues.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-09-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Joe talks about coming from Texas at age 14, his father working for Lindel Drop Forge, and being hired by Fisher in October 1964 at age 18. He describes being placed on jobs that would "only go to Mexicans," some racial tension, relations with coworkers and managers, pranks, playing cards, the check pool, and retiring after 38 years.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-24T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Karel discusses his childhood in the neighborhood near Fisher, how he got his nickname, his time in the U.S. Army, and hiring into Fisher in July 1971. Frizz talks about being hired straight into the apprentice program, being paid to learn, women on trades and life in the factory. He discusses his move to supervision and the culture difference between Oldsmobile and Fisher Body during the corporate restructuring in the mid 1980s.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-13T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Don tells of being hired in 1962 at Flint Chevrolet, AC Spark Plug and describes his first years and Army service. He talks about his educational accomplishments and entering skilled trades in 1982. Don explains why he declined to go on management several times and why he has always respected the union. He comments on the Flint strikes, wildcats, the differences between Flint and Lansing, UAW-management relations differences, females in skilled trades, and the 1984 change to small cars in Lansing.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-19T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Sal describes his childhood in Texas as a farm laborer, his Army and National Guard experience, and work in the plant cafeteria before being hired by Fisher in October 1968. He describes factory life, jobs he did, pranks, relations with coworkers and supervisors, and his role in the change to a team based system. Sal talks about his family connections to GM and his active social life in and outside the plant.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-07T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Edward Rankin recalls his career as an inventory clerk, manager, and sales representative at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, MI, between 1947 and 1973. Rankin talks about his youth and being hired at REO, and speaks nostalgically about REO social life, worker sports teams and the beautiful Olds family pipe organ featured at the REO Clubhouse. He also describes sales trips to Iraq and Lebanon on behalf of REO, the intricacies of foreign markets and general market pressures in the truck business. Interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-01-28T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Mabel McQueen talks about her career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, MI, from 1953 to 1975. She describes her youth on the family farm, working at Motor Wheel through the war, her work as a secretary and bookkeeper, her supervisors, and her feelings about the union. McQueen says that many of her family members also worked at REO and that REO itself felt like one big family. She says that the bankruptcy was a terrible time and that it was heartbreaking watching friends and co-workers being fired and losing their pensions. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-06-16T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dave describes the duties of an industrial hygienist and being trained to perform the job. Dave talks about beginning his career at Fisher in 1967 while pursuing a degree at MSU. He tells about being selected for a series of "non-traditional" jobs. Dave shares memories about life in the factory and concludes by giving a brief description of the replica Fisher Coach that was built by employees around 1985.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-08-24T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Hattie describes being hired in April 1953 and working in the Paint Shop. She talks about wages, undesirable jobs, and discrimination. Hattie discusses relations with coworkers, sexual harassment, swing shifts, family life, and day-to-day life in the factory.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-16T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Amer talks about coming to Lansing from Tennessee, being hired in May 1953 and being placed on the "cab line" to build convertibles. Amer describes a factory with few women and minorities and lots of hard work. He describes changing into work clothes right on the factory floor, the old time clock system and brags about only taking four sick days during his career.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-24T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- George talks about standing in line in front of the plant for two days to apply and was hired in August 1978. He shares stories about life in the Body Shop, union and management, coworkers, local bars, dinners, fishing and hunting. George discusses his responsibilities as a member of the Emergency Response Team.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-26T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Sandy Dragoo relates how she came to work at Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, as an executive secretary, from 1971 to 1974. She talks about moving to the Capitol Area Transportation Authority (CATA), Lansing's public transit company, as REO began to die and recruiting other REO employees. She also describes the actions of Francis Cappaert, the end of the company pension fund and the emotional depression shared by REO workers. Sandy also talks about the many social activities enjoyed by workers and how much fun she had, as an executive secretary, being invited to management's "REO Men’s Club". The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-05-27T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Joseph tells of being hired in August 1981 and working in the Body Shop and Paint Shop. He also talks about an industrial accident in 1982 that claimed the lives of three persons from a booth cleaning crew.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-06-09T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Debra describes being hired in September 1976, her first job, first boss, and working in the Body Shop. She talks about women in the factory, blatant sexism, and the nature of the work. Debra talks about meeting Gary, becoming friends and eventually marrying. Gary joins the interview to describe some of the operations in the plant. They talk about two serious accidents and daily life and behavior.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-23T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Noel Johnson recalls his career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1958 to 1975. Johnson describes his youth and early jobs and the variety of positions he held at REO and says with pride that Diamond-REO trucks were virtually handmade. He also talks about REO's merger with White Motors, Francis Cappaert’s purchase of the company and the final, painful bankruptcy. He says that he was retained by the company to finish the last military truck orders and was there when the gates were closed for good. The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-10-13T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Willie recounts his youth in Mississippi, his service in the U.S. Army in Korea, and being hired at Fisher in December 1954. He describes the jobs blacks were placed on, discrimination, and being denied an apprenticeship. He comments on millwright work, family, neighborhood, and retirement.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-30T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Vernon Cook recalls working at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, Mi, between 1944 and 1948. Cook says that much of his family worked at REO, including his future wife and that company culture dominated their lives. He describes factory working conditions, the REO Clubhouse, seeing the "Baby REO" car on display, the 1937 sit-down strike, and listening to WREO, the company radio station. He also talks at length about his job as a stock chaser in the plant and describes how trucks were built, tested and then dismantled for export. Interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-02-05T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- R.T. recalls her family and life in Endicott, NY, coming to Lansing with her new husband in 1972, being laid off from her job and standing in the rain with her sister for six hours to apply at Fisher before being hired in March 1981. She comments on the Trim Shop, coworkers, supervision, liking second shift, and her union activism. R.T. talks about her duties as a committee person and bargaining committee member, grievance handling, and the contract.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Karen tells of being hired in May 1978 after waiting overnight to put in an application and being overwhelmed on the first day. She describes a workplace that was like a "meat market," few women but mostly young, on the second shift and suggests that the second shift was a "party shift." Karen talks about workers helping each other and making gate collections for injured and ill coworkers.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-13T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Linda Maxon discusses her early years at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI. She says that she started as a temporary stenographer in 1967 and stayed to work as a secretary for several managers until the plant closed in 1975. Maxon shares many experiences about company social events and institutions and describes the loss of the REO Clubhouse and the burning of the factory itself. Maxon says that in the end, she was able to draw money from the REO pension fund before it was drained and describes the terrible depression suffered by other workers who lost all of their retirement money. The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-06-25T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Louis Garcia discusses his career as an assembly worker, press operator, and manager at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, Mi, between 1946 and 1975. Garcia talks about his Hispanic heritage and his childhood spent as a migrant farm worker. He says that in his early years at REO he was singled out and "tested" by other workers and management because of his ethnicity, but still excelled in the workplace, becoming a journeyman and later a supervisor. Garcia also talks about Francis Cappaert’s ownership of REO, the company bankruptcy, loss of the worker pension fund, the final days of plant operations, and employee depression and suicide. Interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-01-28T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dorothy tells about being hired in December 1952. She describes the brutal work, working conditions, the swing shift, lack of relief and the disparate treatment of women including lower pay and no restrooms. Dorothy also tells about being the first woman to exercise her contractual rights to transfer to a better paying job. She tells of participating in wildcat strikes over the lack of basic necessities like gloves, fountains and fans. Dorothy talks about being elected to the committee and being the lone woman in the male dominated environment. She comments on building the union hall, the need for unions, and her political activity in retirement.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-01-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Doug Sleep talks about his career in the export department at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1961 to 1975. Sleep talks about preparing trucks to be shipped for sale overseas, about becoming a UAW steward and the deterioration of worker/management relations when the company changed ownership. Sleep describes the difficulty in running a shop with the chronic shortage of parts in the company's last days and final owner Francis Cappaert's attempts to break the union. He also laments the loss of the worker pension fund and the creation of federal pension guarantee program. The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. The first minute of the interview was not recorded. Recorded as part of the commemoration of the REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-06-22T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- John Bowles talks about his career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, MI, from 1938 to 1971. Bowles says that he came to Lansing from Indiana in 1931 searching for work and was happy to finally land a good paying job at REO in 1938. He describes the various jobs he held in the plant, struggling to fill military truck orders, the inspection process, the early novelty of women working in the plant, war production, and trying to diversify in the post-war era by manufacturing lawnmowers. He says that working at REO was truly a family affair and that, in fact, most employees had relatives working along side of them in the plant. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine.Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-06-09T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Walt describes being overwhelmed when he was hired in September 1968, joining management in 1978 and finding it difficult to supervise people he worked with on the line. Walt describes a typical day for supervisors, the dress code for supervisors, meeting his wife in the plant and their struggles with an interracial marriage.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Lyle describes growing up in the neighborhood near Fisher, being hired in November 1956 and his first day on the wet deck. He reflects on segregation in the plant, the swing shift, and changeover. Lyle talks about transferring to Security in 1966, describes the duties, interactions with workers, strikes, and the 1982 deaths in the Paint Department. He also discusses GM's decision to outsource plant security to Pinkerton. Lyle also discusses his other passion - coaching baseball.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-26T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Cookie talks about college and teaching in Mississippi, coming to Lansing in 1963 and 1964 to work summers in the factory and returning south to teach in the fall. In 1965, Cookie permanently hired into Fisher. He describes a workplace with few minorities and one black supervisor. Cookie comments on the 1970 UAW strike, discrimination and race. He recalls applying and being tested for supervision but was told he failed the test. In 1971 he felt he was forced onto supervision to help GM comply with new laws. Cookie recalls that some workers would not accept their paychecks from a black. He talks about cooking a roast in the paint ovens, area dinners, the salaried dining room and retirement.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-10T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Mike describes being hired in December of 1970, working in the Body Shop, meeting his wife, friendships, and union activity. Mike also discusses the launch of the J-car and the degree of worker involvement in job setup making it the best launch ever in GM.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-09-14T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Connie talks about being hired in 1972 and working in Sanitation and Trim, being laid-off in June 1973 and quitting to care for her child. She rehired straight into skilled trades in April 1985 with a journeyman's card from her time with the Tennessee Valley Authority. Connie recalls being one of only a few women in the trades, relations with bosses and coworkers, life in the factory, and social time. Connie comments on her family ties to GM and her union activity.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-08-31T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Eileen Nortman talks about her brief tenure at the REO Motor Car Company in Lansing, MI. Nortman describes growing up in Williamston, Mi, starting at REO in 1943, at the age of 17 and leaving in 1945 to join the Navy. She talks about shop conditions, her jobs at REO, car-pooling, gas rationing, and women working in the plant, and how she and other women got along with male employees. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1993-01-28T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Garry shares his experiences and perceptions about work in the factory, labor and management, General Motors, the community, and his motivation for becoming active in the UAW. Garry shares stories about managers, conflicts, and speaks frankly about unionism, the economy, and politics.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-03-07T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Steve talks about his career with the IBEW before hiring into GM in November 1983. He describes working at several plants in Lansing before coming to Fisher in July 1992. Steve talks about the Body Shop's transition from hand welders to leaky hydraulic robots to electric FANUC robots. He comments on relations between production and skilled trades, his move to the Safety Lockout project, placarding, women and minorities in skilled trades, and the closing of Fisher.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-14T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Marlene tells about being hired in October 1968 after working for Coca Cola. She talks about working in Trim and Body Shops, dirty and dangerous work, night shift and child care. Marlene describes her duties in Tool Repair, the stress of being the lone female and proving herself daily.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-04-27T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Rocky recalls moving to Lansing at age 15 from Kentucky and being hired in June 1963, working ten and eleven hour shifts, participating in a wildcat strike in 1966 over gloves and receiving discipline. Rocky joined management in 1968 and discusses his relations with UAW officials. He built a replica of the Fisher Coach for a parade. Rocky comments on being transferred to Oldsmobile in 1985 following the corporate reorganization to BOC.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-02T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Russell Alberts talks about working at REO Motor Car Company, in Lansing, MI, from 1928 to 1939. Alberts describes conditions in the plant, his jobs, pay, benefits, and hours, before unionization and the great strides made by workers after the big labor strike of 1937 and the Lansing Labor Holiday. He also talks about the REO Clubhouse, the radio station, REO products and making experimental vehicles for the American military. Alberts' wife, Eva Alberts, describes her work in the REO Navy Department during the war and both discuss an accidental death in the plant and the safety issues which plagued the manufacturer for decades. The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-04-16T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Carla recalls being hired in September 1976 and people yelling out the windows of the factory at those lined up to apply. She describes her first day being assigned to the Body Shop because she "looked strong." Carla went on supervision to stay on the day shift but returned to production. In 1985 she was accepted as an electrical apprentice. Carla discusses education, work, sexism issues, relations with male tradesmen, management, and her union activity.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-13T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Mike recalls being hired in July 1997 into the Body Shop, finding the plant scary and loud and talks about the 90 day probation period, restroom breaks, and the nature of the work. He also talks about the union and paying dues. Mike discusses his union and political activism, visits to Black Lake, White Shirt Day, and community activities.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-17T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Kevin talks about being hired in August 1973 at the Olds Forge Plant Two and coming to Fisher in June 1982. Kevin shares his experiences and comments on work in the factory, new hire status, second shift, moving between plants, union activity, joint programs, safety training, training of coworkers, and community involvement.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-11T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Alex talks about growing up in the neighborhood, playing around the plant and his father's experience as a Fisher worker. Alex talks about being hired in March 1981 before he turned 18, making money, life in the factory, and his union involvement. He relates a story about men being allowed to work shirtless until a woman removed her shirt.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-03-08T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Shelton talks about being hired in November 1984 when the plant converted to small cars. He tells of standing in line six hours to apply at Fisher, his first day in the Body Shop, and the type of work he did. Shelton discusses coworkers, supervisors, meeting his wife, night shift family issues, lunch at Gus's Bar or Harry's, friendships and his union activity.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-21T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Denny Cox discusses his career as a production worker and UAW committeeman at the Fisher Body plant in Lansing, MI. Maggie Cox discusses her career as a UAW Local 602 secretary and member of OPIEU Local 42. Denny talks about getting hired in October 1963, his varied jobs, his union activity and positions as elected committeeman and UAW Job Placement Coordinator. He describes placing restricted workers on jobs, racism and sexism, and relations with managers in and out of the factory.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-23T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Arthur Frahm recalls his career as a bookkeeper and purchasing agent at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, Mi, between 1947 and 1972. Frahm describes his job buying almost everything used in the factory, the constant turmoil as REO changed hands over the years, the decline of the company, his own discharge, and his unsuccessful class action law suit filed against REO. Frahm also talks about his education, childhood in Lansing, the Lansing Labor Holiday and the 1937 strikes, REO’s involvement in the community, the destruction of the worker's pension fund, the start of Spartan Motors, and his career after REO. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-02-10T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Barbara talks about her career prior to being hired in July 1981. She describes her duties at Fisher covering vacationing salaried workers, walking the shop floor and developing rapport with the UAW production workers. Barb talks about becoming the plant manager's executive secretary and working for four plant managers - three men, one woman, the front office culture, how the reorganization to BOC was received, the many transfers and reassignments, and the Oldsmobile/BOC talent show.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-07T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Milton recalls being hired in October 1967, serving in the Air Force, and receiving a BS in Social Science from MSU in 1971. He comments on diversity of race and backgrounds in Fisher, the nature of the work, heat, the snack wagon, strikes, strike pay, quality control, worker dedication, and his union activity.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-02-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Layton Aves, a production worker and UAW organizer at REO Motor Cars/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., claims that in the 1940s only Ku Klux Klan members were allowed to join the union and work at the Lansing, MI plant. Aves says the UAW cooperated with the Klan in order to increase its strength and ability to organize workers and that union-management relations in the plant were often filled with animosity. Aves also talks about his duties at REO, where he worked from 1941 to 1975, life in the plant, his experiences with line speed-ups, piece counts, and time study, and the lives of his grandfather, father and mother, who all worked beside him the the REO factory. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1995-08-08T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Andy talks about being raised in Brooklyn, NY, attending Penn State, having his own business, and being hired in 1976 at a GM bearing plant in New Jersey. Andy talks about coming to Lansing Oldsmobile in 1982 and moving to Fisher in 1991. He describes his experiences as a maintenance supervisor and planner, relations with the UAW, and his thoughts about General Motors.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-05T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Don discusses being hired in 1972, getting laid off, and joining the Air Force. He returned to Fisher as a booth cleaner. Don discusses safety procedures and training and comments on the death of three booth cleaners in 1982. Don transferred to Oiler and he describes their work, factory life as a maintenance worker, overtime, the Emergency Response Team, and his community involvement.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-27T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Jody talks about moving from Escanaba, MI, being hired in September 1977 after standing in a long line to submit an application, his union activity, and meeting his wife. He also talks about being a safety trainer and committeeman.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-04-28T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dick tells about his life before coming to Fisher in October 1964. Dick describes his first job, first boss, his move to supervision, various pranks, ergonomics, and his relations with UAW officials and upper management. Dick was involved in the product development team and helped establish the plant Emergency Response Team. Dick also talks about after hours social events like the BOC talent show, and his time as a volunteer firefighter.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-31T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Kirk tells of being hired in November 1974 at the Olds Forge Plant. He recalls serving an apprenticeship at Olds Main Plant and coming to Fisher Body in 1998 under provisions of the UAW/GM National Agreement Paragraph 96. Kirk describes his work as a toolmaker, life in the factory and comments on the union.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-11T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Craig tells of being hired in March 1981 into Fisher where his father was a supervisor. He lists family members that work for GM, describes what it was like to work for his father, jobs he had, and some pranks pulled on him. Craig also talks about his union activity and being elected to the Recreation Committee.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-04-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Vic recalls being hired in March 1964, working day shift, the size of plant, and the amount of supervisor control. He comments on the 1964 and 1970 strikes, lay offs, working in the Material Department, just in time stock, and his community activities.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-12T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Ninety-six-year-old Hilda Smith recalls her career at the REO Motor Car Company, in Lansing, MI, between 1923 and 1964. Smith talks fondly about her family, her job in REO's Human Resources Department, and her retirement after a forty-two year career. She looks through a scrapbook with the interviewers, identifying managers and coworkers and talks about the REO Clubhouse, movies, and caring for her thirteen siblings. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-02-12T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- In an appearance at the Michigan State University Main Library, autoworker and acclaimed author Ben Hamper talks about his career at the General Motors Truck and Bus Plant in Flint, Michigan and reads from various works, including his forward to the book "Working words: punching the clock and kicking out the jams" by M. L. Liebler and from his most famous work, "Rivethead", a cynical and humorous view of life in an auto plant. A question and answer session follows. Hamper is introduced by Michigan State University Professor John P. Beck for the Michigan State University Libraries' Michigan Writers Series.
- Date Issued:
- 2012-03-27T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Tom talks about his life prior to Fisher Body, growing up in Detroit, being hired in August 1978 and going to the Body Shop. Tom tells of deciding early he wanted to be in trades. He talks about his apprenticeship, women in trades, safety lockout, chemicals, duties in the powerhouse, relations with managers and his union activity. Tom comments on Lansing's success, people's attitude and talent.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-10T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Marilyn tells of being hired in September 1978 right out of high school. She describes working in the Trim Shop with few women on the day shift. Marilyn describes common initiations to factory life. She talks about tag relief, mass relief, contract supervisors, check pools, gate collections, dinners, and her UAW activity and being elected as Civil Rights Chair. Marilyn talks about her community involvement with the NAACP and A Philip Randolph.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-22T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Mickey talks about his life prior to being hired at Fisher Body in June 1976. He describes his first day on the job in Body Shop welding the wheelhouse, hanging 80 lbs. Toronado doors, quality inspections, and eventually becoming a city driver with a CDL license.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-14T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dick describes being hired in April 1968 and getting lost twice on his first day. Dick talks about several jobs he had including a special assignment with the product development team. He discusses contract negotiations, strikes, training, and playing guitar. Dick talks about moving up to work directly for the UAW as an International Representative helping UAW locals negotiate contracts with other companies.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-03-14T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Earl talks about being hired in April 1963, first impressions of the factory, black workers assigned to the body shop, and union sympathies. Earl was the first black supervisor at Fisher and tells of making the transition from hourly to supervision, the effect of the BOC reorganization on managers, and comments on GM's treatment of salaried retirees.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-16T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dick talks about being raised on a farm and being hired in May 1955 while on strike at REO Motor Works. He describes being scared and lost on the first day and finding the work "back breaking." Dick talks about having lead poisoning, the swing shift, commuting, pranks, long hours, and unemployment. He describes his union activity working his way up from committeeman to Bargaining Chair to local union President. Dick talks about meeting Walter Reuther and going to Black Lake.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-04-25T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Bill Myers talks about his career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1963 to 1975. Myers discusses his youth and early jobs before coming to REO, and describes how officers from the Detroit Arsenal would come to the plant to talk about military vehicle specifications during the war years. Meyers also talks about how he was recruited, with other REO employees to go to the Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA), Lansing's transit system, as REO declined. He comments on legendary REO manger Clare Loudenslager’s style at REO and later at CATA and says that REO was a great place to work. The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-06-24T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Don talks about his union activity and experiences as the Chair of the Bargaining Committee, collection of union dues, and strikes. He met Caesar Chavez, Walter Reuther and Doug Frasier. Doreen talks about the experiences of women in the plant, building the Local 602 Union Hall, and changes observed between 1950 and 1984.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-14T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Sam recounts being born in Little Rock, AR, graduating high school in Kansas City, MO. and being hired at Fisher in February 1969. Sam describes the Body Shop as hot, dirty, and smoky. By contrast Sam says Trim Shop was paradise. He was drafted into U.S. Army after three months at Fisher and accrued seniority while he served. Sam talks about his union involvement, Black Men in Unions, service as Recreation and Conservation chair, and the Local 602 picnic.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-09T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Linda talks about obtaining two degrees before being hired at Fisher in August 1978. She recalls her first impressions of the plant and talks about her many duties as newsletter editor and photographer. Linda describes an incident when the flash from her camera triggered the fire suppression system in the paint booth.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-23T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Bob talks about being hired in December 1970 into the Body Shop and placed on "one of the worst" jobs. He describes an attempt to fire him, transferring to material handling and his duties there. Bob talks about being an alternate committeeman, the UAW Black Lake Family Education Center, various pranks, the contract, plant rules, lunch at Harry's, his hobbies, and his passion for Harleys.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-11T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dick Trierweiler talks about his career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, MI, from 1960 to 1975. Trierweiler describes his youth, early jobs, hiring into REO, and the jobs he held with the company, including test driving trucks. Trierweiler tells of his struggles to earn an engineering degree while working full-time and later becoming a Technical Service manager and engineering trouble-shooter. The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-05-04T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Rusty tells of being hired in August of 1976 into the Trim Shop. He describes the work, his coworkers, and how he became interested in serving on the committee. Rusty talks about situations where he had to represent workers facing discharge and other discipline. He comments on the transition to the new factory and the closing of the old Fisher Body facility in May 2005.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-05-02T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Sally describes being hired in June 1978 and considered the factory a "scary place." She talks about family issues that influenced her to apply at Fisher. Sally describes various production jobs, her relations with bosses, engineers and coworkers and life in the plant. She recalls being selected as an Ergonomics Rep in 1987 and discusses the frustration of trying to get jobs set up properly.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Otto Aves talks about his career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1944 to 1972. Aves describes growing up on a Delta Township farm and following both of his parents into the plant. He also talks about building military vehicles without heaters and defrosters, trying to run the family farm while working double shifts, a wildcat strike over piece rate pay, conditions on the shop floor, building custom trucks for celebrities, and the tremendous influence of the UAW. He says that REO was much like a family and reminisces about REO picnics, outings at Lake Lansing, the REO Clubhouse, movies, bowling, and the ball teams. As in any family, he says, there were problems and he describes filing a shop grievance against his real-life father-in-law who also worked at REO. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1993-01-04T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Sam tells of being hired in May 1971 and being put on "the worst job" - welding wheelhouses. He tells of transferring to Security seven months later. Sam talks about his duties dealing with strikes, discharges, occasional fights, and describes an industrial accident in 1982 that claimed the lives of three men. He tells about GM outsourcing Security to Pinkerton and his last years before retirement.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-12T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- John recalls being hired in October 1964 and going to Trim Shop. He talks about a variety of experiences and perceptions of production operations and coworkers. John discusses going on supervision then into Labor Relations and finally becoming the management representative to UAW Joint Activities. He describes the plant environment, labor-management relations, coordinating the "Best Launch Ever" event at Breslin, and other adventures working with the plant manager and staff.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-09T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Jerry gives a description of robotics in the plant and the preparations for a plant open house where robots were programmed to either draw or putt a golf ball.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-08-24T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Mike tells of being hired in August 1976 and going to work in the body shop. He describes day-to-day life in the factory, his job responsibilities and his role as a team coordinator. Mike talks about his UAW activities and his involvement with the Oldsmobile Outdoor Club as well as traveling to the UAW Family Education Center at Black Lake, MI.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-02-27T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Jim talks about being hired in June 1962 as a clerk at Pontiac then moving to supervision and eventually area manager. Jim talks about his first day at Fisher in Lansing. He shares his perceptions about labor and management, General Motors, the community, best and worst memories, and his style of managing. Jim talks about Lansing workers and their work ethic, working with the local UAW president on the line, and relations with Local 602 and Local 652.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-19T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Monte tells of being hired in December 1984 into the Paint Shop spraying clear coat. He describes the jobs in paint and working 13 hours a day in paint repair. Monte talks about relations with supervisors, race relations, substance abuse, his catering business and business in the plant.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-21T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Frances Barnhart talks about her brief career at the REO Motor Car Company, in Lansing, MI, from 1942 to 1953. Barnhart describes growing up in Lansing and going to the REO Clubhouse as a child, working at Kresge's in downtown Lansing, and finally being hired into the REO Navy Department to make make bomb fuses during the war. Barnhart describes the many family connections that brought her to the plant, earning 65 cents an hour, piece rate, safety issues, and being one of the older women to work at REO. She says that she moved to the lawn mower line after the war, met her husband, was soon laid off and declined a callback in 1959 to raise her family. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1993-03-09T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Doug discusses being hired in March 1981, his first jobs and move to the Paint Shop. He comments on life in the factory, his religious faith, substance abuse, and his selection as an Employee Assistance Program advisor. Doug discusses using the Tuition Assistance Program, completing a degree program, and becoming a plant Chaplin conducting funerals, weddings, counseling and caring for workers and their families.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-17T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Mark describes being hired in September 1976 and losing his lunch bag on his first day. He tells about being trained and doing a variety of jobs over the years. Mark recalls doing strike duty and comments on the union. He describes a ceremony conducted for retiring fork truck operators. Mark talks about friends, hobbies and interests.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-15T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Roberta talks about moving from Tennessee, meeting her husband Harvey in high school and hiring into Fisher Body in 1978. Roberta talks about her first day in the Trim Shop, childcare duties and working night shift. She tells about her jobs in inspection, relations with bosses, contract supervisors, racism and sexism, her UAW activity on the Civil Rights Committee, Women's Committee, and NAACP. She tells of community service, cooking at the union hall, retiree dinners, and proudly declares her kids are all college educated.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-19T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Marilyn Shadduck talks about her career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1942 to 1975. Shadduck describes her youth, going to weekly free movies at the REO Clubhouse, working at REO through the war years, being selected as "Miss REO", raising a family, and being part of the "REO family" until the plant closed. She talks about the dissolution of the company, the loss of the pension fund, and the start of Spartan Motors by former REO workers. She says that REO "was a great place to work". The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-06-08T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Edna Ramont talks about her career at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1942 to 1974. Ramont describes her early years at REO and the everyday details of her employment, such as her pay, break time, layoffs, building lawnmowers and operating lathes and drill presses in the Truck Motor Department. Ramont also fondly recalls the REO Clubhouse, the pipe organ, the many worker social gatherings and the family-like atmosphere at REO. She also, however, stresses her staunch unionism and discusses a strike at the plant during the very difficult war years. The interviewer is Shirley Bradley. Recorded as part of the commemoration of REO Motor Car Company’s 100th Anniversary.
- Date Issued:
- 2004-10-06T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Lyle tells of being hired in August 1976 and being assigned to the Trim Shop. He tells of working on weld integrity in Quality Control, of meeting his wife, his love of music and he even plays his harmonica. Lyle also discusses the difference between hourly and salaried people, the BOC talent show, his union activity and his job as plant tour guide.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-15T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Dave talks about being hired in August 1976, his first day in the Body Shop jungle, and a variety of pranks. He tells of beginning his apprenticeship in 1979 and receiving his journeyman's card 1989. Dave discusses lines of demarcation, overtime, wages, family issues and working Sundays when families of the tradesmen would come to the plant and picnic outside.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-10-17T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Calvin tells of growing up in Arkansas, working at a unionized shoe factory in St. Louis, moving to Michigan and being hired in November 1949 and being placed on one of the worst jobs. He describes his frustration with racism, sexism and unfairness. Calvin provides several examples of conflict and his eventual move to skilled trades as the first black in Jig & Fixture repair. He discusses being a strike captain during the 1970 strike.
- Date Issued:
- 2006-01-13T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Doris Dow recalls her career as a secretary at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc, in Lansing, Mi, between 1950 and 1975. Dow talks about joining her mother and other relatives at the plant and describes her first job running a blueprint copier, becoming a secretary and later working for Oldsmobile. She says that at REO, the company was more a part of the social fabric of a worker's life than at Oldsmobile and goes on to describe the "fun" she had at the REO Girls Club, and performing charity work with other employees. Dow also discusses the decline of REO, the day that the doors were locked, the aftermath of the closing, the demolition of the REO Clubhouse and the loss of the REO pension fund. She explains the complexity of selling the company as a unit because of the way owner Francis Cappaert had divided the operations from the property. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-02-19T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Diana describes being hired in August 1981 at Oldsmobile, coming to Fisher in 1983 and working in the Trim Shop. She talks about her first job, working second shift, her union activity and the differences between work at Oldsmobile and Fisher Body, as well as charity fund raising in the plant. Diana tells of wanting to work at Olds in the 1960s but her employer refused to give her a good recommendation to avoid losing her.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-03T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Herbert Heinz talks about his career as an electrician at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1951 to 1974. He discusses REO products, plant safety issues, exporting trucks around the world, and the union and various labor actions. Heinz also recounts management abuses and irregularities, alleging that managers used REO workers to build their cottages in Northern Michigan and that as the plant died at the time of the 1975 bankruptcy, managers began stripping parts and equipment from the plant. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1993-03-16T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Harold discusses his life prior to Fisher Body, being a GM Gypsy, working in Pontiac and Flint before coming to Lansing in May 1985 and having a confrontation with his boss on the first day. Harold describes commuting a long distance to work, the 1998 Flint strike, his activity in UAW Local 1753 and Local 602 and his election as Workers Compensation and Unemployment Chair for Local 602.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-09-13T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Lloyd talks about being hired in November 1951, his first day in Trim putting on door handles and receiving no orientation. He describes the swing shift, having no breaks, use of foul language, and some pranks. Lloyd talks about his union involvement and 15 years as a committeeman, being a strike captain in the 1960s, and preventing the delivery of paychecks to the plant during a strike.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-11-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Lue talks about being hired in November 1954 and going to the Paint Shop. He discusses becoming a paint mixer and being one of the first blacks put on supervision. Lue talks about the technical duties of paint mix, swing shifts, women in the plant, and his family.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-12-07T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- Marilyn Chamberlain talks about working at REO Motor Car Company/Diamond-Reo Trucks, Inc., in Lansing, MI, from 1965 to 1975. She talks about her many bosses and the unique family atmosphere in the plant, which she says she never found in any other workplace. Her husband, Calvin Chamerlain, talks about coming to REO from Motor Wheel in Lansing and working his way up from machine operator to time study analyst on the truck and lawnmower lines. He says that workers often felt threatened by time studies and reacted to them with hostility. The Chamerlains recount the decline and end of the company, the loss of the REO Clubhouse, hard feelings and tension throughout the factory and leaving the plant for the last time. The interviewers are Shirley Bradley and Lisa Fine. Recorded as part of the REO Memories oral history project.
- Date Issued:
- 1992-06-11T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection
- Description:
- John tells of being hired in June 1972, quitting and being hired again in September 1984. He tells of his previous union and nonunion work experience, his apprenticeship and skilled trades work, union activity, and his appointment as a UAW Benefits Representative.
- Date Issued:
- 2005-09-14T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Michigan State University. Libraries
- Collection:
- G. Robert Vincent Voice Library Collection