| Abstract: | The Cleveland Federation of Musicians was established in 1877 as the Musicians Mutual Protective Association in Cleveland, Ohio. In 1895 the Association joined the American Federation of Musicians and became A.F.M. Local 4. Black members left to form their own local, No. 550, in 1910, but reunited with Local 4, also known as the Cleveland Federation of Musicians, in 1962. Establishment of minimum wages and protection of its members were the union's main goals. Women musicians were given equal protection after being admitted to the union in 1901. Other union activities included support of other unions, publication of the Cleveland Musician, and sponsorship of the Druid Club. The collection consists of photographs and drawings depicting individual members, conventions, and bands of the American Federation of Musicians, Local 4, Cleveland, Ohio. | |