The Enduring Legacy of Labor
An interactive journey through the history of the United Auto Workers, General Motors, and the Missouri plants that shaped a region's industrial heart.
A Tale of Two Eras
The story of GM in Missouri is a story of transition, from the sprawling industrial might of the St. Louis plant to the modern, high-stakes operations at Wentzville. This section allows you to explore the history, operations, and ultimate fate of each plant, revealing the profound shifts in American manufacturing over decades.
The St. Louis Anchor (1920s - 1986)
A colossal industrial complex, the St. Louis plant was an economic engine for generations. It produced millions of vehicles, from Chevrolet trucks to the iconic Corvette, and played a vital role in WWII. Its closure in 1986, a strategic move by GM to modernize, marked the end of an era and symbolized the painful impact of deindustrialization on American communities.
- Peak Employment: 35,000 workers
- Total Production: 6.3 million vehicles over its lifetime
- Key Products: Chevrolet trucks, Pontiacs, Corvettes, and more
- Union Local: UAW Local 25, chartered 1935
St. Louis Plant: Key Metrics
6.3M
Vehicles Produced
(Over Lifetime)
35K
Peak Employment
(Workers)
The Wentzville Era (1983 - Present)
The Wentzville Assembly Plant represents GM's modern manufacturing prowess. Opened in 1983, it has adapted to changing market demands, producing a diverse range of vehicles, from minivans to today's popular trucks and vans. It stands as a testament to innovation and continued American automotive production.
- Current Employment: Approximately 4,000 workers
- Key Products: Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana
- Union Local: UAW Local 2250, chartered 1982
Wentzville Plant: Key Metrics
4K
Current Employment
(Workers)
~250K
Annual Production
(Units)
The Heart of the Union: Local 2250
The identity of the workforce at Wentzville is defined by UAW Local 2250. This section explores the core principles that drive its famously "old-school, hard-nosed" culture. These aren't just slogans; they are deeply held beliefs that have led to major labor actions and define the local's relationship with both GM and the national UAW.
"Seniority is King"
The bedrock principle. Local 2250 fiercely defends seniority against management practices like job rotation, viewing it as the ultimate protection for workers' jobs and skills. This single issue was central to the "Wentzville 41" incident.
Local Autonomy
Local 2250 has a history of independent action. It was one of only two locals to reject the tiered-wage system in 2008 and voted against the national GM contract in 2023, showcasing a willingness to defy broader trends to uphold local standards.
Militant Solidarity
From national strikes to supporting sister locals like Lear's UAW 282, Local 2250 demonstrates a powerful commitment to collective action, understanding that strength lies in unity across the supply chain.
GM UAW Wentzville: A History in Time
Explore the significant milestones and pivotal moments in the history of the General Motors Wentzville Assembly Center and UAW Local 2250, showcasing decades of dedication, struggle, and progress. Click on each event to learn more!
1983: Wentzville Assembly Plant Opens
Early Years: UAW Local 2250 Established
1996: Transition to Full-Size Vans
2008: Rejection of Tiered Wage System
2010s: The "Wentzville 41" Seniority Dispute
2014: Chevrolet Colorado & GMC Canyon Production Begins
2019: Participation in National GM Strike
2023: Vote Against National GM Contract
Present: Current Production & Future Focus
The Economic Engine of Missouri
The Wentzville plant is more than a factory; it's a cornerstone of the regional and state economy. This dashboard visualizes the plant's massive contribution through jobs, investment, and GDP, illustrating why its continued success is vital for thousands of families and the state's prosperity.
Enjoy Our Union History Game
Ever wonder why we've got weekends, decent wages, and safer workplaces? Look no further than the awesome world of unions! Imagine a time when folks worked super long hours for peanuts... Wait Some still do. UNIONIZE!
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