The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has officially restored the “Local 1” designation to its Waycross, Georgia-based local, previously known as Local 625. The rechartering ceremony in Waycross marked a return to the union’s origins, honoring the group of 19 machinists who established the IAM in Atlanta in 1888 under Thomas Talbot.
IAM Local 625 was first chartered in 1933 and held that number for nearly a century. Union officials described the renaming as a tribute to their roots and an effort to connect current members with the organization’s early history.
Curtis W. Taylor, a retired machinist with over forty years of service, said, “should have been [Number 1] all the time,” referencing the local’s historical connection to Georgia and its significance within the union.
Local 1 now represents more than 250 members, mainly railroad workers across the Southeastern United States. The local is involved in supporting freight operations and locomotive maintenance throughout the region.
As part of the re-chartering events, union leaders visited CSX Transportation’s locomotive facility and service center in Waycross. This site plays a key role in producing and maintaining locomotives vital for national freight transportation. During their visit, Josh Hartford (Special Assistant to the International President), Reece Murtagh (President and Directing General Chair of District 19), and Jason Gibbs (General Chair) toured facilities, met with members, discussed working conditions with management, and observed daily operations.
Murtagh commented on Local 1’s character by saying it is a “strong” and “fighting” Local. He stressed that leadership should maintain 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 recognized by the Waycross Historical Society for its significance within the community.
Jamie Crews, President and Local Chair of Local 1, expressed gratitude: “I am proud to carry forward our tradition from 1888,” he said while thanking international auditing committees and executive boards for their support during this transition.
Union leaders described this change as more than an administrative update; they see it as restoring historical continuity by aligning today’s membership with Talbot’s legacy and reaffirming IAM’s longstanding presence in Georgia while continuing its focus on supporting railroad workers throughout the Southeast.
For many members in Waycross, reclaiming Local 1 status serves as both recognition of heritage and ongoing commitment—linking present-day machinists with those who founded one of North America’s major rail unions over a century ago.
