A Proud History

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A Proud History

Senator Spark M. Matsunaga dedicates the Hawai'i Carpenters Union headquarter building. Former Executive Board members discuss strategic plans for the Union. The post-World War II construction boom created new growth and recruiting opportunities for the Union.

The Hawai`i Carpenters Union has a proud and prestigious history that is interwoven with Hawai`i's growth and development. From office towers and hotels to highways and metal-framed housing, Carpenters Union members have served as key building trade personnel with an assortment of critical job site responsibilities on Hawai`i's major construction projects.

Established on July 25, 1901, with 10 carpenters registered in its Day Book, the Union was accepted and chartered one year later by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.

First Construction Master Agreement in Hawai`i

World War II and the post-war boom greatly increased the Union's ranks, as military installations, commercial development and residential housing demands surged across the Territory.

The construction boom following the war provided a unique opportunity for the Union to organize and assimilate a large number of Japanese carpenters into the local, many of whom spoke little English. Local 745 made history by being the first union in the country to successfully attract and retain Asian Americans.

After statehood, the Carpenters Union continued in its role as an industry leader by negotiating for the first time a collective bargaining contract in 1960 for all basic crafts in Hawai`i. The new Master Trade Agreement covered wage increases, working conditions, overtime and holidays, employment security and other benefits.

Champion of Unionism

In keeping with its role as an advocate for workers, we aim to "elevate the moral, intellectual and social conditions of all working men and women," a commitment outlined in the Local 745 By-Laws. The Union's membership continues to assist not only unionized carpenters and drywall workers, but all carpenters and drywall workers everywhere and even those outside the industry, including shipyard, convention center, healthcare and refuse workers.

Today, Local 745 has grown to become the largest single local within the Brotherhood, and is recognized around the state and country for its progressive programs and service to its membership. Hawai`i's unionized carpenters have contributed to the growth of downtown Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, Waikiki, Leeward and Ewa O`ahu and other economic, residential and visitor centers in the islands.