What was Bloody Wednesday?
Warehousemen’s Union (ILWU) to gain recognition and better working conditions. The strikers were attempting to block a train carrying cargo through the picket line. The police, led by Chief B.K. Lawson, were instructed to clear the way. According to the provided text, police and strikers offered conflicting accounts of the event, with police claiming they fired about 35 shots and strikers alleging several hundred.
The Aftermath and Significance
During the confrontation, four strikers—Elmus W. Beatty, Peter Stephenson, Bert Yates, and W. Huntington—were shot. The violence also damaged the surrounding area, with bullets hitting many trees in Pier Park. Despite the police action, the picket line held, which the provided text describes as a victory for the ILWU. This event demonstrated the high stakes and violent nature of labor disputes during this era and ultimately contributed to the union’s success in achieving recognition.
For more depth watch: The 1934 West Coast waterfront strike | Oregon Experience | OPB
We offerer St. History Johns Tours that does not take guests to Pier Park at this time but this history can be offered in a private tour.
Updated August 18, 2025 Alt Text, links, grammar.