The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has rechartered its Waycross, Georgia-based local union, previously known as Local 625, under the historic title of Local 1. This change restores a designation that dates back to the IAM’s founding in 1888.
The ceremony in Waycross marked what union leaders described as a return to the organization’s roots. The new name honors the original group of 19 machinists who first met in Atlanta under Thomas Talbot’s leadership to establish the IAM.
Waycross’s local was originally chartered as Local 625 in 1933 and had carried that number for nearly a century. Union officials said the transition to “Local 1” is intended as a tribute to the IAM’s beginnings and serves as a link between current members and those who founded the union.
Curtis W. Taylor, a retired machinist with over forty years of experience, commented on the renaming: “should have been [Number 1] all the time,” noting its connection to Georgia, where the union began.
Currently, Local 1 represents more than 250 railroad workers throughout the Southeastern United States. The local supports employees involved in freight operations and locomotive maintenance across the region.
As part of re-chartering events, union leadership visited CSX Transportation’s locomotive facility and service center in Waycross. The site plays an important role in building and maintaining locomotives used nationwide for freight transport.
Attendees included Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the International President; Reece Murtagh, President and Directing General Chair of District 19; and Jason Gibbs, General Chair. During their visit, they toured facilities, spoke with members about working conditions, engaged with management, and observed daily operations.
Murtagh described Local 1 as both “strong” and “fighting,” stressing that it is important for leaders to maintain close contact with members while upholding workplace standards.
Local 1 operates from a historic union hall—a former church purchased collectively by its members—which is now owned outright by the local. The building is recognized by the Waycross Historical Society for its significance within the community.
Jamie Crews, President and Local Chair of Local 1, expressed appreciation for being able to continue traditions dating back to 1888: “I want to thank our international auditing committees and executive boards for their support throughout this process.”
Union leaders said this move goes beyond administrative changes by restoring historical continuity with Talbot and IAM’s original founders. They emphasized that this step reinforces IAM’s longstanding presence in Georgia while supporting railroad workers across the Southeast.
For Waycross members, regaining charter status as Local 1 serves both as recognition of their heritage and affirmation of ongoing commitment—demonstrating that principles established more than a century ago still guide today’s machinists.
