The Toiler in Cleveland, Ohio

The Migrant Workers in Nevada Mines and Union Struggles

After a Boise trial two freed prisoners Jack and Collins travel to Nevada seeking work in the Tonopah area. They join migratory mining camps, observe efforts to form a basic industry union among itinerant workers, and face opposition from established capital and craft unions. Collins pushes for reduced hours and higher pay to expand labor, while Jack doubts the feasibility and gradually drifts toward abstract ideals and personal conflict with the movement. Olive, a stabilizing influence, writes letters that renew commitment amid hardship.