SETTING THE STAGE
Explore a few of the highlights in Local 52's long & storied background.
THE DAWN OF MODERN CINEMA
1890s
In West Orange, NJ, Thomas Edison erected the first motion picture studio, the "Black Mariah” — a simple structure built on a circular railroad track so the building could revolve as sunlight shifted. The roof was also moveable, which the crew operated via a pulley system. Following his innovations, and the work of Edwin S. Porter, many studios formed in New Jersey. At one point, studios employed up to a third of all residents in the nearby Fort Lee, New Jersey.
THE GREEN CARD
MOVEMENT
SPRING, 1922
Working conditions varied greatly on projects, and after seven studio electricians worked 72 hours in three days, they held private conversations that would lead to the creation of the Studio Mechanics Association. This is now referred to as the Green Card Movement, as so many of the workers were of Irish descent.
WORLD'S 1ST MOTION PICTURE LOCAL
SPRING, 1924
The leaders of the Green Card Movement realized that true strength came in numbers, and they fought tirelessly for Local 52 to receive broader support. After a rousing speech by organizers John Murphy, Ben Mahoney, and Arthur Gerson, a charter was granted from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), making Local 52 the world’s first Motion Picture Local.
BOOM TOWN
1926-1932
From 1926 to 1928 the New York filmmaking scene experienced massive disruption as the industry moved West. However, Local 52 was quick to realize the impact that newly invented “talkies” represented, and effectively organized the Soundmen. Their hard work and foresight helped revive New York as a significant player in the industry.
GREAT DEPRESSION & THE RISE OF TV
1932-1950s
The Great Depression, combined with increased competition from Hollywood, wreaked havoc on the NY motion picture industry. However, Local 52 and the advertisers on Madison Avenue seized the opportunity presented by the adoption of television. New York quickly became the prime source for commercials and TV series the world over.
LOCAL 52 EXPANSION AND GROWTH
1960s-1990s
In the thirty years following 1960, Local 52 experienced unprecedented growth — expanding its jurisdiction to include Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Membership grew from 625 in 1965 to around 3,680.
THE CHANGING FACE OF LOCAL 52
2000s-Today
In the 21st century, Local 52 is the most well-equipped, experienced, and productive filmmaking force in the world. We combine the best that has preceded us with the technology of today and tomorrow, and look forward to a vibrant, growing industry in this, the entertainment capital of the world.
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