Metals Manufacturing in Four Montana Communities Oral History Project

Metals Manufacturing in Four Montana Communities Oral History Project, 1986-1988

Overview of the Collection

Creator: Montana Historical Society
Title: Metals Manufacturing in Four Montana Communities Oral History Project
Dates: 1986-1988 (inclusive)
19861988
Quantity: 83 interviews
Number of pages in transcript or summary provided in container list.
Collection Number: Metals Manufacturing in Four Montana Communities Oral History Project
Summary: This project examined the metals manufacturing industry and the four Montana communities most directly affected by that industry: Anaconda, Black Eagle, Columbia Falls, and East Helena.
Repository: Montana Historical Society, Library & Archives
Montana Historical Society Research Center Archives
225 North Roberts
PO Box 201201
Helena MT
59620-1201
Telephone: 4064442681
Fax: 4064445297
mhslibrary@mt.gov
Access Restrictions: Collection is open for research.
Languages: English
Sponsor: Funding for encoding this finding aid was provided through a grant awarded by the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Historical NoteReturn to Top

In this project residents of Anaconda, Black Eagle, Columbia Falls, and East Helena share their experiences as merchants, bartenders, union organizers, and families of smelter workers living in towns dominated by metals manufacturing plants. The project was the first in a series designed to explore Montana's labor and industrial heritage and the role of industry in shaping community identity. Related projects include Montanans At Work; Small Town Montana; and New Deal in Montana.

Content DescriptionReturn to Top

The project consists of 83 interviews in which residents of Anaconda, Black Eagle, Columbia Falls, and East Helena discuss work experiences, community life, ethnic traditions, union activities, cultural and social divisions, health and safety issues, and overall living conditions.

Other Descriptive InformationReturn to Top

Researchers requesting copies of interviews should refer to the OH number when ordering.

Use of the CollectionReturn to Top

Alternative Forms Available

To access digital copies of interview audio and transcripts/summaries online, visit Voice of Labor Oral History Collection.

Restrictions on Use

The Montana Historical Society is the owner of the materials in the Research Library and makes available reproductions for research, publication, and other uses. Written permission must be obtained from the Research Library before any reproduction use. The Society does not necessarily hold copyright to all of the materials in the collections. In some cases, permission for use may require seeking additional authorization from the copyright owners.

Preferred Citation

[OH number][Interview title] Montana Historical Society Research Center. Archives. Helena, Montana.

Administrative InformationReturn to Top

Arrangement

Inventory is arranged by item, with each oral history interview listed by its unique OH number. An abstract for each interview is provided in the inventory to allow keyword searchability. The abstract includes the number of cassettes, CDs or transcript pages for the interview, as appropriate. Researchers requesting copies of interviews should refer to the OH number when ordering.

Location of Collection

Digital copies of audio recordings and transcripts/summaries can be accessed through the Montana Memory Project.

Acquisition Information

Interviews in the collection conducted by Montana Historical Society Staff or volunteers.

Detailed Description of the CollectionReturn to Top

Description
OH 903: BRUCE BARRETT INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Bruce Barrett (b. 1951) discusses working for the Anaconda Company Reduction Works (refinery) in Great Falls, Montana, from 1969 to 1980; trade union activities; the Community of Black Eagle; and the impact of closure of the plant on workers' lives. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 27, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 904: WILLIAM A. TONKOVICH INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 5 pages William Tonkovich (b. 1919) discusses his work for the Anaconda Company refinery in Great Falls, Montana from 1938 to 1941 and from 1956 to 1980; and ethnic groups (especially Croatians), neighborhoods, churches, and entertainment in the community of Black Eagle from 1918 to 1980. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 27, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 905: LAWRENCE E. TESSMAN INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 8 pages Lawrence Tessman (1920-1993) discusses his work for the Anaconda Company Reduction Department in Great Falls, Montana, from 1939 to 1980; plant operations, working conditions, safety, and management; his participation in the International Union of Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers (Mine-Mill); and his youth in Great Falls as one of fourteen children; prohibition; and the community of Black Eagle. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, Feb. 28, 1986, Great Falls, Mont.
OH 906: JOHANNA MICHELETTI HAMER AND HOWARD HAMER INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Johanna Hamer (b. 1920) describes the Italian community of Black Eagle, Montana from the 1920s to the 1980s. Howard Hamer (b. 1922) discusses his work for the Anaconda Company Reduction Department in Great Falls, 1950-1980; and effect of the plant's closure on workers and community. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 28, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 907: CLARENCE H. SILLOWAY INTERVIEW Summary 8 pages Clarence Silloway (1896-1988) discusses his work as a timekeeper for the Anaconda Company Reduction Department in Great Falls, Montana from 1916 to 1918; work as an engineer in the electric shop from 1918 to 1961; and innovations he implemented at the plant. Interviewed by 3 hours, 50 minutes
OH 908: MARGARET "PEGGY" CONDON TABARACCI INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 5 pages Margaret Tabaracci (1922-1987) discusses the effects of the Anaconda Company smelter shutdown on Black Eagle, Montana; efforts in 1981 to obtain the former Anaconda Company clubhouse for the Black Eagle Civic Club; and her work at Borrie's Restaurant from the 1950s to the 1970s. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 27, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 909: ZAIRA STEFANI LUKES INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Zaira Lukes (b. 1913) discusses community life in Black Eagle, Montana from 1927 to 1986; her work at the local Miami Club; and her operation of Two Brothers Market. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 28, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 910: EMELIA TABARACCI QUNELL INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Transcript in-process pages Emelia Qunell (b. 1921) discusses growing up in Black Eagle, Montana; community life; the Italian and Croatian communities; establishment of the Black Eagle Civic Club; the Catholic Church; and her feelings about the Anaconda Company Great Falls Reduction Department shutdown; and the removal of the smokestack. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 6, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 911: MELVIN A. SHARP INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Melvin Sharp (b. 1933) discusses the management of the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter in East Helena, Montana, from 1982 to 1986, emphasizing employee and community relations, ore supplies, marketing, and environmental concerns. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 10, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 912: KENNETH R. ST. CLAIR INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Kenneth St. Clair (b. 1925) discusses his work for the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter in East Helena, Montana from 1947 to 1985, as a relief foreman and foreman in the blast furnace department; his service with the volunteer fire department; and as mayor of East Helena. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 5, 1986, East Helena, MT.
OH 913: LYLE PELLETT INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 5 pages Lyle Pellett (b. 1916) discusses his work for the Anaconda Company's Reduction Works in Great Falls, Montana as a stripper in the zinc plant from 1940 to 1955; as a safety man in first aid department from 1955 to 1980; his participation in the International Union of Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers (Mine-Mill). Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 13, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 914: AMELIA GUZOVICH POLICH INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Amelia Polich (b. 1904) discusses her family's operation of the Chicago Mercantile in Black Eagle, Montana; Croatian traditions; church activities; and the relationship of the Anaconda Company smelter with the community from 1910 to 1980. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 13, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 915: CHARLES MICHELETTI INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Charles Micheletti (1907-1987) discusses his work for the Anaconda Company Reduction Department in Great Falls, Montana, from the 1920s to 1969; working in the zinc plant and in the surface department as a truck driver; the operations managers, ethnic groups (especially Italians), and unions at the plant; and company relations with the community of Black Eagle. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 13, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 916: LORADO MAFFIT INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Lorado Maffit (1916-1990) discusses his work in the Anaconda Company's Electrolytic Copper Refinery, part of the Reduction Department in Great Falls, Montana from 1937 to 1977. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 14, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 917: ERNIE GRASSESCHI INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Ernie Grasseschi (b. 1926) discusses his family's operation of Borrie's Restaurant in Black Eagle, Montana, from 1938 until 1986; his involvement in the Black Eagle Civic Club, and the club's acquisition of the former Anaconda Company Mining clubhouse; and the smelter's relationship with the community of Black Eagle. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 19, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 918: DAVID COPP INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 3 pages David Copp discuses the operation of the Black Eagle Community Center in Black Eagle, Montana from 1984 to 1986; and the changes in the community since the shutdown of the Anaconda Company smelter in 1980. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 19, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 919: DAVID JOHN EVANKO INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages David Evanko (b 1945) discusses working in the zinc plant and with a surface crew for the Anaconda Company Reduction Department in Great Falls, in the zinc plant and with the surface crew from 1966 to 1980; the impact of the plant's closure on the workers; and his post-shutdown search for employment. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 20, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 920: MYRTLE MOE FAGENSTROM INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Myrtle Fagenstrom (1899-1994) describes community life in Black Eagle, Montana, from 1910 to 1921; the Moe Family; and working at Mateucci's store from 1916 to 1921. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 14, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 921: BERT KANE INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Bert Kane (b. 1906) discusses his work as a chemist and plant manager for the Anaconda Company zinc smelter at East Helena, Montana from 1935 to 1970. He also discusses his work as a youth at the ASARCO smelter, his father's livery and coal business and community life in East Helena. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, May 15, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 922: ANN WAGENBACH PETEK INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Ann Petek (b. 1905) discusses East Helena, Montana community life from 1923 to the 1980s; the relationship of the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter to the town; her participation in Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church activities; and her work for the East Helena Post Office. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, May 16, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 923: JEROLD M. HANSEN INTERVIEW 5 tape(s), Summary 19 pages Jerold Hansen (b. 1930) worked for the Anaconda Company smelter at Anaconda, Montana, from 1949 to 1982 in the ferro-manganese and masonry departments; working conditions, management policies, managers, accidents, strikes, and changes in various operations from 1959 until final shutdown; Anaconda neighborhoods and ethnic groups; efforts to preserve historic structures and revitalize the economy. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, May 27, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 924: TOM DICKSON INTERVIEW 3 tape(s), Summary 18 pages Tom Dickson discusses his work at the Anaconda Company smelter in Anaconda, Montana from the 1940s to the 1970s, focusing on his involvement with the International Union of Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers (Mine-Mill); labor-management negotiations; the 1934 and 1954 strikes; the merger between International Union of Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers (IUMMSW) and United Steel Workers of America (USWA); the annual Smelterman's Day festivities; company influence on the union and the community; and taxation issues. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, May 30, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 925: BOB VINE INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Transcript 74 pages Bob Vine (b. 1925) discusses his work for the Anaconda Company from 1957 to 1983 including work as personnel manager; reasons for the plant closure in 1980; and the affects of the closure on the town of Anaconda, Montana. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, May 27 and 29, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 926: DONALD H. NYQUIST, JR. INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 8 pages Donald Nyquist, Jr. (b. 1951) describes his youth in Anaconda, Montana, in the 1960s and early 1970s; his family history; his identification as a "hippy"; his work for the Anaconda Company smelter; the relationship of the company to the town; and the impact of the 1980 smelter shutdown on the community. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, May 27, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 927: WILLIAM PORTER INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 7 pages William Porter (b. 1929) discusses the history of the American Chemet Company; its move to East Helena, Montana, in 1946; the zinc fuming operation; the company's relationship to the local Anaconda Company plant; the establishment of the Columbia Paint Company as a subsidiary; and his own role in the company since 1957. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, June 12, 1986, Helena/E. Helena, MT.
OH 928: ANDREW MACKANICH INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 9 pages Andrew MacKanich (b. 1907) discusses community life in East Helena, Montana from 1910 to the 1940s; the town's relationship with the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter; his employment at the smelter from 1924 to 1927; and his career as a schoolteacher in East Helena schools from 1935 to 1942. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, June 12, 1986, Helena/E. Helena, MT.
OH 929: HERB CARVER INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 9 pages Herb Carver (1902-1990) discusses the operation of the East Pacific Mine Near Winston, Montana from 1935 to 1950 and its relationship with the American Smelting and Refining Company smelter in East Helena. He also discusses the challenges facing small independent miners, particularly in the area of labor relations and government regulations. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, June 11, 1986, Winston, MT.
OH 930: RUDOLPH "POTSY" ANDOLSEK INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Transcript 73 pages Rudolph Andolsek (b. 1912) discusses his life in East Helena, Montana, and his work as a laborer, pipefitter, and foreman at the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter in East Helena from 1946 until 1972. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, June 17, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 931: PAUL KLEFFNER INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 10 pages Paul Kleffner (b. 1916), owner of the Kleffner Ranch near East Helena, Montana, discusses the ranch's relationship with the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter. He also discusses his participation in East Helena clubs, community activities, and Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 10, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 932: ANNE PREBIL INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Transcript in-process pages Anne Prebil (b. 1908) discusses the Slovenian community and its traditions in East Helena, Montana, and her work at the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) plant during World War II. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 10, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 933: WALTER VALACICH INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 12 pages Walter Valacich (b. 1911) discusses his youth in Black Eagle, Montana, from 1915 to 1930; Croatian heritage and traditions; the influence of the Anaconda Company on Black Eagle and Great Falls; and local politics. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 17, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 934: EUGENE G. COX INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 12 pages Eugene Cox discusses his work as clerk and personnel manager for the Anaconda Company plant at Great Falls, Montana, from 1926 to 1971. He also discusses company managers, worker relations, the community of Black Eagle, and Great Falls politics. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 16, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 935: OLANDA RINARI VANGELISTI AND CLAIRE VANGELISTI DEL GUERRA INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 9 pages Olanda Vangelisti (b.1906) and Claire Del Guerra discuss community life and Italian heritage and traditions in Black Eagle, Montana from the 1920s to the 1980s; and the Anaconda Company smelter's role in the community. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 16, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 936: JOHN LUKE MCKEON INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 16 pages John McKeon (b. 1925), an Anaconda, Montana, attorney, discusses neighborhoods, ethnic groups, the Catholic Church, and the Anaconda Company in Anaconda from 1930 to 1980. He also discusses his representation of workers and unions in his law practice; the merger between International Union of Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers (IUMMSW) and United Steel Workers of America (USWA); his terms in the State Senate from 1961 to 1973; and the aftermath of the closure of the Anaconda smelter. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 29, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 937: SISTER GILMARY VAUGHAN INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 8 pages Sister Vaughan (b. 1920) discusses the impact of the Anaconda Company smelter shutdown on the town of Anaconda, Montana; efforts to provide needed social services; the Irish heritage in Anaconda; and the role of the Catholic Church in the community. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 30, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 938: HOWARD ROSENLEAF INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 13 pages Howard Rosenleaf (b. 1936), an Anaconda, Montana resident, discusses his work as a carpenter at the Anaconda Company smelter from 1955 until 1970, and his job as business agent of the carpenters' union in Anaconda from the 1960s into the 1980s. He also discusses his youth in the community during the 1940s and 1950s; labor negotiations; the influence of the Anaconda Company on the town; changes in the labor movement since the plant shutdown; and the operation of the King's X Bar from 1964 until 1974. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 29, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 939: RUDOLPH W. POLICH INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 5 pages Rudolph Polich (1913-1996) discusses social life, businesses, and Croatian customs in Black Eagle, Montana from the 1920s to the 1950s; the relationship of the Anaconda Company to the community; his participation in several labor strikes; and former Company superintendent Al Wiggin. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 6, 1986, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 940: KATHRYN WETZEL NEWTON DEWING INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Transcript 64 pages Kathryn Dewing (b. 1923) discusses living in Anaconda, Montana including her work at the Anaconda Copper Company smelter during World War II, and her 40-plus years working as a waitress at the Park Café. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, August 11, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 941: RUTH PARRY MEIDL INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Ruth Meidl (1925-1995) discusses her years living in Anaconda, Montana, and her operation and ownership, with her husband Mel Meidl, of the Mill Bar in Anaconda from 1964 to 1986. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, August 11, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 942: JOSEPH H. SCHWARTZ INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 10 pages Joseph Schwartz (b. 1899) discusses the operation of Schwartz' Department Store in Anaconda, Montana from 1912 to 1981; his participation in community activities; and the business climate in Anaconda. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, August 12, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 943: JOSEPH AND FRANCIS BOLKOVATZ INTERVIEWS 2 tape(s), Summary 13 pages Anaconda, Montana residents Joseph Bolkovatz (b. 1911) and Francis Bolkovatz (1915-1987) discuss attitudes toward the Anaconda Company, leisure-time activities, neighborhoods, religious life, and surviving on a smelter workers income. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, August 12, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 944: WALTER L. SCHMITZ INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Walter Schmitz (b. 1928) discusses his youth in Anaconda, Montana during the 1930s; his work for the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter in East Helena, during summers in the late 1940s; and his father Walter S. Schmitz's work for the Anaconda Company in East Helena. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, August 24, 1986, Helena, MT.
OH 945: ROBERT J. KELLY INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 11 pages Robert Kelly (b. 1919), a retired Anaconda Company employee, discusses security work for the smelter in Anaconda, Montana, from 1951 to 1980; work as a deputy sheriff of Anaconda from 1951 to 1954; and community recreation and sports in Anaconda from the 1930s to the 1950s. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, October 2, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 946: ERMA ROCKHILL BENNETT INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Transcript 46 pages Erma Bennett (1913-1998) Anaconda, Montana resident, discusses her working experiences in Anaconda, 1930s-1960s, particularly her job at the Anaconda Company smelter during World War II. She also discusses her struggles supporting children as a widow in the 1940s. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, September 30, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 947: ARTHUR A. "TINY" LONGFELLOW INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Arthur Longfellow discusses his operation of the Longfellow-Finnegan's Funeral Home in Anaconda, Montana from 1933 to 1986; and his service as Deer Lodge County coroner for 35 years. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, October 2, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 948: FLORA BEAL SULLIVAN INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Flora Sullivan (1898-1988) reflects on Beal family history; her work as a beauty operator in Anaconda, Montana from 1929 to 1941; and her involvement with the Girl Scouts. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, October 1, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 949: ISABEL TRACY MCCARTHY INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 8 pages Isabel McCarthy (1918-1999) describes her childhood in Anaconda, Montana, in the 1920s; Anaconda's neighborhoods; St. Peter's Catholic Church; entertainment; and raising twelve children. She also discusses the role of the Anaconda Company smelter in providing employment for townspeople. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, October 2, 1986, Anaconda, MT.
OH 950: JOHN B. "JACK" HARRIS INTERVIEW 3 tape(s), Summary 18 pages John B. Harris (b. 1921) was an employee of the Anaconda Company and American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelters in East Helena, Montana, from 1946 to 1983. He discusses his work and his involvement in the International Union of Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers in local, state, and national bargaining and negotiating. He also discusses the International Union of Mine, Mill, and Smelter Workers (IUMMSW) and United Steel Workers of America (USWA) merger; industrial safety, and differences between ACM and ASARCO plants. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, October 30, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 951: CHARLES DONALD MANSFIELD INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 9 pages Charles Mansfield (b. 1905) discusses employment opportunities in the Columbia Falls, Montana, area from 1920 to 1985; his own work for the Great Northern Railroad and the Plum Creek Lumber Company; the impact of Anaconda Aluminum Company plant construction on area development and environment; and his service on the Columbia Falls city council. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, November 6, 1986, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 952: VICTOR E. CORDIER INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 10 pages Victor Cordier discusses his work as a potman, tapper, and truck driver for the Anaconda Aluminum Company plant in Columbia Falls, Montana from 1955 to 1985; plant processes and safety; his participation in the Aluminum Workers Union; and local attitudes toward the smelter. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, November 6, 1986, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 953: JUDY BERARDI INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Judy Berardi (b. 1955) a Columbia Falls, Montana resident discusses involvement in "Save the Plant" (or "People for Jobs") organization formed in 1985 to find a buyer for the Columbia Falls Atlantic Richfield Company aluminum smelter. She also discusses the importance of the plant to the community, participation in Bonneville Power Administration hearings, lobbying and organizing efforts, and plant purchaser Brack Duker. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, November 7, 1987, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 954: EDWARD GARDIPEE INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Edward Gardipee (b. 1937) discusses the impact of the closure of the Anaconda Company's mine and smelter in Butte and Anaconda, Montana, on the families, communities, and employments opportunities in those cities; working at the Anaconda smelter from 1969 to 1980; and his involvement in the Anaconda Indian Alliance. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, November 20, 1986, Butte, MT.
OH 955: KLAAS DE WIT INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 16 pages Klaas De Wit (1909-1994) discusses his work as a warehouse manager for the Anaconda Aluminum Company plant in Columbia Falls, Montana, from 1954 to the 1970s; his participation in the local Lion's Club; and the company's relationship with the community. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 3, 1986, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 956: DWIGHT "DOC" KIMZEY INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 5 pages Dwight Kimzey was an employee of the Anaconda Aluminum Company plant at Columbia Falls, Montana. He discusses the construction and initial operation of the plant, 1954-1955, and his work as superintendent of the casting plant until 1978. He also discusses his participation in community activities and the company's relationship with the city of Columbia Falls. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 3, 1986, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 957: WILLIAM J. DAKIN INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Transcript 30 pages William Dakin (b. 1949) discusses his life in Columbia Falls, Montana since the 1950s and the effect the Anaconda Aluminum Company plant, and later the Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) plant, had on the community. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 4, 1986, Coram, MT.
OH 958: RUTH L. RENFROW INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Ruth Renfrow discusses her move to Columbia Falls, Montana in 1954; the operation of Renfrow's Cabinet Shop, and her participation in Church Women United and other community groups. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 4, 1986, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 959: FAY LOVEALL AND BEULAH GRAHAM LOVEALL INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Fay Loveall (b. 1903) discusses her work for various Columbia Falls, Montana businesses and her operation of Fay's Electric Shop from 1953 to 1960. Beulah Loveall (d. 1987) describes her work for the electric shop and teaching in Columbia Falls from 1923 to 1927. They also discuss community life, town personalities, construction of the Hungry Horse Dam, and family history. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 4, 1986, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 960: EDWIN O. WOSTER INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Edwin Woster discusses initial operations of the Anaconda Aluminum Company smelter in Columbia Falls, Montana, from 1954 to 1955; company management; his work as potline superintendent; his term as plant manager from 1966 to 1979; the company's role in the community and the environment. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, October 9, 1986, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 961: LESTER A. MERGENTHALER AND JUNE MERGENTHALER INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 3 pages Lester Mergenthaler (b. 1918) discusses his work at the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) lime quarry south of East Helena, Montana from 1944 to 1977; his father's garage business in East Helena; and employment opportunities in the 1930s. June Mergenthaler discusses the social life and characteristics of East Helena. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 11, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 962: DAVID FOSTER INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 8 pages David Foster (b. 1936) discusses the major issues he faced as mayor of East Helena, Montana from 1961 until 1979; the effects of the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter on the community; its ethnic tradition; baseball, and other community entertainment; and Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December, 19, 1986, E. Helena, MT.
OH 963: ELLEN M. KLOKER INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 9 pages Ellen Kloker ©. 1948) discusses her work as a secretary, switchboard operator, and supply clerk for the Anaconda Company smelter at Anaconda, Montana, from 1967 to 1982. She also discusses the impact of the smelter shutdown in 1983 on the community. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 28, 1987, Anaconda, MT.
OH 964: PAUL L. LATRAY INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Paul Latray (b. 1917) describes his work as a crane operator for the Anaconda Company smelter in Anaconda, Montana from 1950 to 1981. He also discusses his participation in the Anaconda Indian Alliance from the 1960s to the 1980s. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, February 25, 1987, Anaconda, MT.
OH 965: VIRGINIA SCHEET INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Virginia Scheet discusses the relationship between American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter and the community of East Helena, Montana from 1956 to 1986; her involvement with the East Helena Improvement Association; and local acceptance of smelter effluents. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, April 21, 1987, E. Helena, MT.
OH 966: CAROLYN CRISLER INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 5 pages Carolyn Crisler (b. 1950) discusses her operation of, and programs of, the Anaconda Indian Alliance from 1977 to 1986; and her work for the Anaconda Company smelter from 1974 to 1975. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, March 16, 1987, Anaconda, MT.
OH 967: JENNIE RANIERI SIGNORI INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Jennie Signori (1897-1991) discusses her family's operation of Ranieri's General Mercantile store and boarding house in Black Eagle, Montana, from 1909 to 1918; and Italian traditions, foods, and lodges in Black Eagle. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, April 23, 1987, Spokane, WA.
OH 968: MARIE "COOKIE" PALAGI GODLEWSKI INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Marie Godlewski (b. 1918) discusses the community, ethnic traditions, and church activities of Black Eagle, Montana from the 1920s to the 1950s. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, May 7, 1987, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 969: ANN WASHATKO INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 3 pages Ann Washatko discusses living in Columbia Falls, Montana, and her work for the People for Jobs organization attempting to prevent the closure of the Anaconda Aluminum Company plant. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, June 11, 1987, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 970: CURTIS O. PETERSON INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Curtis Peterson discusses his work for the Anaconda Aluminum Company plant in Columbia Falls, Montana, from 1961 to 1986; his participation in the Aluminum, Brick, and Glass Workers Union and the Aluminum Workers Trade Council; the difference in management styles between the Anaconda Company and the Atlantic Richfield Company; the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company purchase of the plant in 1986. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, June 11, 1987, Columbia Falls, MT.
OH 971: STANLEY M. LANE INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 8 pages Stanley Lane discusses his work as a metallurgist and plant superintendent for the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter in East Helena, Montana from 1935 to 1978. He also discusses technological changes in plant operations, labor, negotiations, and environmental concerns of the period. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, September 22, 1987, Helena, MT.
OH 972: WILLIAM P. HRELLA INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 5 pages William P. Hrella discusses the history and operation of Hrella's Grocery and Meat Market in East Helena, Montana, from 1889 to 1987. He also discusses grocery trade training, participation in community activities, and the character of East Helena. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, September 24, 1987, E. Helena, MT.
OH 973: ETHEL HOGFOSS BYBERG INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Ethel Byberg discusses community life in East Helena, Montana, from the 1940s to the 1960s. She also discusses her husband Wesley Byberg. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 7, 1987, Helena, MT.
OH 974: ANNA MAE NOVIS MILES INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Transcript 27 pages Anna Miles (b. 1922) discusses her parents' immigration from Yugoslavia; her childhood in Anaconda, Montana in the late 1920s and 1930s; her work as a switchboard operator at the Anaconda Company smelter during World War II; and her mother Ann Lescantz Novis' World War II job as a smelter worker. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 7, 1987, Anaconda, MT.
OH 975: URSULA KABLIN JURCICH INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 7 pages Ursula Kablin Jurcich (b. 1900) discusses ownership of Jurcich's Grocery Store in Anaconda, Montana from 1926 to 1943. She also discusses work at the Anaconda Company smelter during World War II and at local department stores. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, January 8, 1988, Anaconda, MT.
OH 976: MARGARET ANDERSON INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 2 pages Margaret Anderson (1913-1988), a Great Falls, Montana, resident, describes her Norwegian heritage and a North Great Falls neighborhood early in the 20th century. Interviewed by Clara B. Heffern, September 8, 1986, Great Falls, MT.
OH 977: JOAN BROZICEVICH EARL INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 5 pages Joan Earl (b, 1934) discusses church activities, businesses, ethnic traditions, women's work and various neighborhoods in Black Eagle, Montana from the 1940s to the 1950s. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, January 19, 1988, Black Eagle, MT.
OH 978: DOROTHY MORAN ANDERSON INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Dorothy Anderson (1907-2000) discusses her family history; youth in Sun River, Montana (1910s-1920s); farming in Teton County (1930s); and work at the Anaconda Company refinery in Great Falls during World War II. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, January 19, 1988, Great Falls, MT.
OH 979: MURIEL VERRILL ROSSBERG INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 3 pages Muriel Rossberg discusses her work as a mail carrier at the Anaconda Company refinery in Great Falls, Montana during World War II from 1943 to 1945. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, January 18, 1988, Great Falls, MT.
OH 980: ROBERT ROSSBERG INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 6 pages Robert Rossberg (1923-1998) discusses his work as a machinist at the Anaconda Company refinery in Great Falls, Montana from 1942 to 1980. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, January 18, 1988, Great Falls, MT.
OH 981: EARL L. LENCI AND CHARLENE KRAULICH LENCI INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Transcript 47 pages Earl Lenci (b. 1933) and Charlene Lenci (b. 1935) discuss their childhoods in Black Eagle, Montana during the 1940s and their operation of Earl's Bar in Black Eagle since 1958. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, January 19, 1988, Great Falls, MT.
OH 982: SAM RYAN INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 9 pages Sam Ryan (b. 1916) discusses his work for the Anaconda Company and the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelters in East Helena, Montana, from 1942 to 1972; his involvement in the International Union of Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers; the union's statewide negotiations; local grievances; and labor's declining influence in Montana. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, December 26, 1986, Helena, MT.
OH 983: JAMES R. REARDON INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 8 pages James R. Reardon (b. 1955) member and officer of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 72, discusses his youth in East Helena, Montana, during the 1960s, and his work for the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) smelter in East Helena from 1975 through 1988. He also discusses his participation in the union and the various official positions he has held. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 29, 1988, E. Helena, MT.
OH 984: LEAH LONA PLUMLEE ALBRIGHT INTERVIEW 1 tape(s), Summary 4 pages Leah Albright ©. 1919) a Helena, Montana resident, discusses work as a chemist at the American Smelting and Refining Company smelter in East Helena from 1943 until her retirement in 1984. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, July 27, 1988, Helena, MT.
OH 985: ETHEL FLEURY SCHEET INTERVIEW 2 tape(s), Summary 5 pages Ethel Scheet (b. 1944) discusses living in East Helena, Montana from 1958 to 1988 including her community involvement with the East Helena School Board (1976-1985) and her work with the East Helena Historic Preservation Society attempting to save the Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church. Interviewed by Laurie Mercier, August 17, 1988, E. Helena, MT.

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