GENERAL DRY BATTERIES - Revision history

Randylyon at 16:29, 23 March 2026

2026-03-23T16:29:17Z

Randylyon at 19:35, 16 May 2018

2018-05-16T19:35:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:35, 16 May 2018
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	Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (24) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (25)		Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (24) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (25)

	The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN ~~WAR~~]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (26)		The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN CONFLICT]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (26)

	In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (27) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.		In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (27) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.

Randylyon at 02:43, 10 April 2018

2018-04-10T02:43:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:43, 10 April 2018
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	The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)		The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)

	General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. ~~The~~ government forced the Mallory ~~Company~~ to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. (16) ~~During wartime~~, ~~defense contractors had~~ to ~~allow~~ the ~~government to obtain supplies~~ from ~~other sources regardless of patents~~. (17)		General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. During the war, the government forced the Mallory Co. to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries; a nation at war couldn’t afford to rely on a lone source for anything. (16) Following the end of the war, on December 5, 1945, GDB acquired from PRM a non-exclusive license to manufacture, use and sell in the U. S. and Canada “GENERAL” branded mercury-cell batteries simultaneously with PRM under PRM’s patent licenses from Samuel Ruben. (17)

	In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (18) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (19)		In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (18) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (19)

Randylyon at 02:27, 9 April 2018

2018-04-09T02:27:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:27, 9 April 2018
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	The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)		The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)

	General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. The government forced the Mallory Company to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. During wartime, defense contractors had to allow the government to obtain supplies from other sources regardless of patents. (16)		General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. The government forced the Mallory Company to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. (16) During wartime, defense contractors had to allow the government to obtain supplies from other sources regardless of patents. (17)

	In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (17) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (18)		In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (18) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (19)

	The public marveled in April, 1946 at the 'handie talkie,' a radio weighing five pounds that could provide two-way communication more than mile. Constructed for use by the military, the device held great promise in post-war years. The batteries were all manufactured in Dubuque by General Dry Batteries. (19) In May, 1946 a freight rail embargo accompanying a national coal strike had severe effects on the company. In May officials announced that a gradual shutdown would be completed in a week. The lack of space to store its products and the inability to ship products due to the rail strike was expected to result in the total work force of 850 to be laid off. (20)		The public marveled in April, 1946 at the 'handie talkie,' a radio weighing five pounds that could provide two-way communication more than mile. Constructed for use by the military, the device held great promise in post-war years. The batteries were all manufactured in Dubuque by General Dry Batteries. (20) In May, 1946 a freight rail embargo accompanying a national coal strike had severe effects on the company. In May officials announced that a gradual shutdown would be completed in a week. The lack of space to store its products and the inability to ship products due to the rail strike was expected to result in the total work force of 850 to be laid off. (21)

	In 1955 the Dubuque branch of General Dry Batteries employed over 900 people and was the largest plant in the firm's national organization and one of the largest plants of its type in the nation. In December of that year the silver anniversary of General Dry Batteries, Inc. and Montgomery Ward was celebrated. General Dry Batteries furnished twenty-five styles of dry batteries, sold under the "Airline" trade name, to Wards ranging in size up to twenty-five pounds. (21)		In 1955 the Dubuque branch of General Dry Batteries employed over 900 people and was the largest plant in the firm's national organization and one of the largest plants of its type in the nation. In December of that year the silver anniversary of General Dry Batteries, Inc. and Montgomery Ward was celebrated. General Dry Batteries furnished twenty-five styles of dry batteries, sold under the "Airline" trade name, to Wards ranging in size up to twenty-five pounds. (22)

	Surprisingly it was not until April, 1955 that six out-of-the-city manufacturers, including General Dry Batteries, had contracts for protection with the [[FIRE DEPARTMENT]]. [[DUBUQUE CONTAINER COMPANY]], [[NORTHOME FURNITURE COMPANY]], General Dry Batteries Inc., Hubbard Walnut Log Company, and [[MELODY MILL]] were all located in the Brunswick Industrial Block. State law prohibited the fire department from providing any protection to any out-of-the-city properties unless they were put under contract for such a service. (22)		Surprisingly it was not until April, 1955 that six out-of-the-city manufacturers, including General Dry Batteries, had contracts for protection with the [[FIRE DEPARTMENT]]. [[DUBUQUE CONTAINER COMPANY]], [[NORTHOME FURNITURE COMPANY]], General Dry Batteries Inc., Hubbard Walnut Log Company, and [[MELODY MILL]] were all located in the Brunswick Industrial Block. State law prohibited the fire department from providing any protection to any out-of-the-city properties unless they were put under contract for such a service. (23)

	Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (23) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (24)		Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (24) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (25)

	The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN WAR]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (25)		The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN WAR]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (26)

	In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (26) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.		In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (27) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.

	In 1985 former employees like [[SLATTERY, Doris\|Doris SLATTERY]] held a reunion. A reunion committee was able to find less than two hundred. (27)		In 1985 former employees like [[SLATTERY, Doris\|Doris SLATTERY]] held a reunion. A reunion committee was able to find less than two hundred. (28)

	---		---
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	16. Fryxell		16. Fryxell

	17. ~~"Battery Firm Needs Workers,"~~ '~~'Telegraph-Herald'', December 21, 1944, p. 12~~		17. William T. Deibel based on Mrs. Cyril P. Deibel's oral history

	18. ~~Fryxell~~		18. "Battery Firm Needs Workers," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 21, 1944, p. 12

	19. ~~" 'Handie Talkie' Uses Explained," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 22, 1945, p. 3~~		19. Fryxell

	20. "~~341 Employees Already Laid Off in Crisis~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~May 9~~, ~~1946~~, p. 1		20. " 'Handie Talkie' Uses Explained," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 22, 1945, p. 3

	21. "~~General Dry, Ward Observe 25-Year Tie~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~December 14~~, ~~1955~~, p. 14		21. "341 Employees Already Laid Off in Crisis," ''Telegraph-Herald'', May 9, 1946, p. 1

	22. "~~6 Out-of-the~~-~~City Firms Get Local Fire Protection~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~April 1~~, ~~1956~~, p. 12		22. "General Dry, Ward Observe 25-Year Tie," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 14, 1955, p. 14

	23. ~~Deibel~~, p. 22		23. "6 Out-of-the-City Firms Get Local Fire Protection," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 1, 1956, p. 12

	24. ~~Ibid.~~, p. 26		24. Deibel, p. 22

	25. ~~Deibel~~, ~~William, e-mail, April 5, 2018~~		25. Ibid., p. 26

	26. ~~Fryxell~~		26. Deibel, William, e-mail, April 5, 2018

	27. Ibid.		27. Fryxell

			28. Ibid.


	[[Category: Industry]]		[[Category: Industry]]
	[[Category: Firsts]]		[[Category: Firsts]]

Randylyon at 01:27, 9 April 2018

2018-04-09T01:27:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:27, 9 April 2018
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	The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)		The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)

	General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. The government forced the Mallory Company to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. During wartime, ~~the~~ defense contractors had to allow the government to obtain supplies from other sources regardless of patents. (16)		General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. The government forced the Mallory Company to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. During wartime, defense contractors had to allow the government to obtain supplies from other sources regardless of patents. (16)

	In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (17) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (18)		In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (17) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (18)

Randylyon at 01:26, 9 April 2018

2018-04-09T01:26:08Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:26, 9 April 2018
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	The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)		The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)

	General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. ~~Aiding in increased production in Dubuque was the~~ government ~~forcing~~ the Mallory Company to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. During wartime, the ~~nation could not depend on only one source for any supply~~. (16)		General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. The government forced the Mallory Company to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. During wartime, the defense contractors had to allow the government to obtain supplies from other sources regardless of patents. (16)

	In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (17) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (18)		In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (17) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (18)

Randylyon at 01:20, 9 April 2018

2018-04-09T01:20:15Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:20, 9 April 2018
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	The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)		The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)

	General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]].		General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. Aiding in increased production in Dubuque was the government forcing the Mallory Company to license its mercury-cell process to General Dry Batteries. During wartime, the nation could not depend on only one source for any supply. (16)

	In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (16) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (17)		In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (17) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (18)

	The public marveled in April, 1946 at the 'handie talkie,' a radio weighing five pounds that could provide two-way communication more than mile. Constructed for use by the military, the device held great promise in post-war years. The batteries were all manufactured in Dubuque by General Dry Batteries. (18) In May, 1946 a freight rail embargo accompanying a national coal strike had severe effects on the company. In May officials announced that a gradual shutdown would be completed in a week. The lack of space to store its products and the inability to ship products due to the rail strike was expected to result in the total work force of 850 to be laid off. (19)		The public marveled in April, 1946 at the 'handie talkie,' a radio weighing five pounds that could provide two-way communication more than mile. Constructed for use by the military, the device held great promise in post-war years. The batteries were all manufactured in Dubuque by General Dry Batteries. (19) In May, 1946 a freight rail embargo accompanying a national coal strike had severe effects on the company. In May officials announced that a gradual shutdown would be completed in a week. The lack of space to store its products and the inability to ship products due to the rail strike was expected to result in the total work force of 850 to be laid off. (20)

	In 1955 the Dubuque branch of General Dry Batteries employed over 900 people and was the largest plant in the firm's national organization and one of the largest plants of its type in the nation. In December of that year the silver anniversary of General Dry Batteries, Inc. and Montgomery Ward was celebrated. General Dry Batteries furnished twenty-five styles of dry batteries, sold under the "Airline" trade name, to Wards ranging in size up to twenty-five pounds. (20)		In 1955 the Dubuque branch of General Dry Batteries employed over 900 people and was the largest plant in the firm's national organization and one of the largest plants of its type in the nation. In December of that year the silver anniversary of General Dry Batteries, Inc. and Montgomery Ward was celebrated. General Dry Batteries furnished twenty-five styles of dry batteries, sold under the "Airline" trade name, to Wards ranging in size up to twenty-five pounds. (21)

	Surprisingly it was not until April, 1955 that six out-of-the-city manufacturers, including General Dry Batteries, had contracts for protection with the [[FIRE DEPARTMENT]]. [[DUBUQUE CONTAINER COMPANY]], [[NORTHOME FURNITURE COMPANY]], General Dry Batteries Inc., Hubbard Walnut Log Company, and [[MELODY MILL]] were all located in the Brunswick Industrial Block. State law prohibited the fire department from providing any protection to any out-of-the-city properties unless they were put under contract for such a service. (21)		Surprisingly it was not until April, 1955 that six out-of-the-city manufacturers, including General Dry Batteries, had contracts for protection with the [[FIRE DEPARTMENT]]. [[DUBUQUE CONTAINER COMPANY]], [[NORTHOME FURNITURE COMPANY]], General Dry Batteries Inc., Hubbard Walnut Log Company, and [[MELODY MILL]] were all located in the Brunswick Industrial Block. State law prohibited the fire department from providing any protection to any out-of-the-city properties unless they were put under contract for such a service. (22)

	Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (21) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (23)		Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (23) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (24)

	The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN WAR]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (24)		The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN WAR]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (25)

	In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (25) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.		In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (26) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.

	In 1985 former employees like [[SLATTERY, Doris\|Doris SLATTERY]] held a reunion. A reunion committee was able to find less than two hundred. (26)		In 1985 former employees like [[SLATTERY, Doris\|Doris SLATTERY]] held a reunion. A reunion committee was able to find less than two hundred. (27)

	---		---
Line 77:		Line 77:
	15. "Bright Future After War for Battery Plant," ''Telegraph-Herald'', October 22, 1944, p. 12		15. "Bright Future After War for Battery Plant," ''Telegraph-Herald'', October 22, 1944, p. 12

	16. ~~"Battery Firm Needs Workers," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 21, 1944, p. 12~~		16. Fryxell

	17. ~~Fryxell~~		17. "Battery Firm Needs Workers," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 21, 1944, p. 12

	18. ~~" 'Handie Talkie' Uses Explained," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 22, 1945, p. 3~~		18. Fryxell

	19. "~~341 Employees Already Laid Off in Crisis~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~May 9~~, ~~1946~~, p. 1		19. " 'Handie Talkie' Uses Explained," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 22, 1945, p. 3

	20. "~~General Dry, Ward Observe 25-Year Tie~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~December 14~~, ~~1955~~, p. 14		20. "341 Employees Already Laid Off in Crisis," ''Telegraph-Herald'', May 9, 1946, p. 1

	21. "~~6 Out-of-the~~-~~City Firms Get Local Fire Protection~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~April 1~~, ~~1956~~, p. 12		21. "General Dry, Ward Observe 25-Year Tie," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 14, 1955, p. 14

	22. ~~Deibel~~, p. 22		22. "6 Out-of-the-City Firms Get Local Fire Protection," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 1, 1956, p. 12

	23. ~~Ibid.~~, p. 26		23. Deibel, p. 22

	24. ~~Deibel~~, ~~William, e-mail, April 5, 2018~~		24. Ibid., p. 26

	25. ~~Fryxell~~		25. Deibel, William, e-mail, April 5, 2018

	26. Ibid.		26. Fryxell

			27. Ibid.


	[[Category: Industry]]		[[Category: Industry]]
	[[Category: Firsts]]		[[Category: Firsts]]

Randylyon at 00:38, 9 April 2018

2018-04-09T00:38:06Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:38, 9 April 2018
Line 25:		Line 25:
	The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)		The company in 1944 was already forecasting a bright future at the end of the war. General Manager Dudley S. Thomas commented that if all government contracts were cancelled, the battery cells then in production "would immediately be consigned to civilian purchasers." All the dry batteries used in the homes on farms were made of cells identical to those used by the signal corps. Protecting the farmer, the War Production Board permitted the production of dry cell radio batteries where power lines were not available and gave this production the same priority rating as the signal corps had for batteries in military service. While not expecting a great increase in employment, company officials stated "there is absolutely no chance of a cut-back." One of the largest post-war applications for dry batteries was expected to be portable radio sending and receiving equipment. "It will be possible for the farm housewife to be in constant communication with her husband 'Plowing in the back forty. Every major newspaper will be equipped with these units." (15)

	General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]]. GDB manufactured mercury cell batteries under the Ruben patents for the military during the war. This would have been under U. S. provisions that any manufacturer like Mallory that supplied defense material to our armed forces had to agree to allow the government to source such material elsewhere to allow multiple sources regardless of patents. (16)		General Dry Batteries reached its peak employment in Dubuque with 1,100 women and 500 men during [[WORLD WAR II]].

	In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (17) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (18)		In 1943, 65% of the company's workforce were women ranging in age from 17 to 65. A critical need for women workers was announced in December, 1944 with positions available for 60 full-time and 19 part-time employees. Each shift worked fifty hours per week with time and one-half paid for all work over 40 hours. (16) Women began work by sweeping. This continued until one by one they were chosen for other work. Men, for example, were often given work with machines while women were assigned to assembly jobs. With the start of war, the company went on three shifts--twenty-four hours a day--with employees being encouraged to work seven days. [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] operated special bus lines for the employees and those who lived beyond the bus lines received extra ration stamps for gasoline. Women who did the same work as men found themselves earning less for the same work. When the war ended, however, many of the women remained in the workforce proving themselves to employers who relied on their abilities. (17)

	The public marveled in April, 1946 at the 'handie talkie,' a radio weighing five pounds that could provide two-way communication more than mile. Constructed for use by the military, the device held great promise in post-war years. The batteries were all manufactured in Dubuque by General Dry Batteries. (19) In May, 1946 a freight rail embargo accompanying a national coal strike had severe effects on the company. In May officials announced that a gradual shutdown would be completed in a week. The lack of space to store its products and the inability to ship products due to the rail strike was expected to result in the total work force of 850 to be laid off. (20)		The public marveled in April, 1946 at the 'handie talkie,' a radio weighing five pounds that could provide two-way communication more than mile. Constructed for use by the military, the device held great promise in post-war years. The batteries were all manufactured in Dubuque by General Dry Batteries. (18) In May, 1946 a freight rail embargo accompanying a national coal strike had severe effects on the company. In May officials announced that a gradual shutdown would be completed in a week. The lack of space to store its products and the inability to ship products due to the rail strike was expected to result in the total work force of 850 to be laid off. (19)

	In 1955 the Dubuque branch of General Dry Batteries employed over 900 people and was the largest plant in the firm's national organization and one of the largest plants of its type in the nation. In December of that year the silver anniversary of General Dry Batteries, Inc. and Montgomery Ward was celebrated. General Dry Batteries furnished twenty-five styles of dry batteries, sold under the "Airline" trade name, to Wards ranging in size up to twenty-five pounds. (21)		In 1955 the Dubuque branch of General Dry Batteries employed over 900 people and was the largest plant in the firm's national organization and one of the largest plants of its type in the nation. In December of that year the silver anniversary of General Dry Batteries, Inc. and Montgomery Ward was celebrated. General Dry Batteries furnished twenty-five styles of dry batteries, sold under the "Airline" trade name, to Wards ranging in size up to twenty-five pounds. (20)

	Surprisingly it was not until April, 1955 that six out-of-the-city manufacturers, including General Dry Batteries, had contracts for protection with the [[FIRE DEPARTMENT]]. [[DUBUQUE CONTAINER COMPANY]], [[NORTHOME FURNITURE COMPANY]], General Dry Batteries Inc., Hubbard Walnut Log Company, and [[MELODY MILL]] were all located in the Brunswick Industrial Block. State law prohibited the fire department from providing any protection to any out-of-the-city properties unless they were put under contract for such a service. (22)		Surprisingly it was not until April, 1955 that six out-of-the-city manufacturers, including General Dry Batteries, had contracts for protection with the [[FIRE DEPARTMENT]]. [[DUBUQUE CONTAINER COMPANY]], [[NORTHOME FURNITURE COMPANY]], General Dry Batteries Inc., Hubbard Walnut Log Company, and [[MELODY MILL]] were all located in the Brunswick Industrial Block. State law prohibited the fire department from providing any protection to any out-of-the-city properties unless they were put under contract for such a service. (21)

	Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (23) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (24)		Merger discussions dated to 1943 when C. P. Deibel and the president of the National Battery Company began considering the possibility. The firm of Ford, Bacon & Davis of New York was hired to investigate the "business, operations and physical properties" of each company." The resulting report was met with great dissatisfaction by Deibel and no further merger talks were considered. (21) By March 1956 when General Dry Batteries was the third largest battery manufacturer, a merger with the P. R. Mallory Company (PRM) was well underway. PRM had introduced mercuric oxide batteries in late 1944 for military use. These batteries offered advantages in size, weight, shelf life, and service life. General Dry Batteries had been granted a non-exclusive license by PRM to manufacture, sell and use in the United States and Canada "GENERAL" branded mercury-cell batteries for civilian markets after [[WORLD WAR II]]. (23)

	The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN WAR]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (25)		The development of the transistor in 1952 had serious implications for battery manufacturers. This was compounded by the end of the [[KOREAN WAR]] in 1953 and the resulting drop in military sales. Mallory closed all the General plants except the one in Toronto, Canada after the merger and replaced them in Tarrytown, NY and the South. These plants were in lower labor cost locations and were probably non-union. (24)

	In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (26) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.		In 1958 the Dubuque battery production was moved back to Cleveland and the plant was closed. (25) Of the 600-700 employees still working at the time of the closing, some moved out of town while others took advantage of the prosperous [[JOHN DEERE DUBUQUE WORKS]] to find employment.

	In 1985 former employees like [[SLATTERY, Doris\|Doris SLATTERY]] held a reunion. A reunion committee was able to find less than two hundred. (27)		In 1985 former employees like [[SLATTERY, Doris\|Doris SLATTERY]] held a reunion. A reunion committee was able to find less than two hundred. (26)

	---		---
Line 77:		Line 77:
	15. "Bright Future After War for Battery Plant," ''Telegraph-Herald'', October 22, 1944, p. 12		15. "Bright Future After War for Battery Plant," ''Telegraph-Herald'', October 22, 1944, p. 12

	16. ~~Deibel~~, ~~William~~, ~~e-mail~~, ~~April 8~~, ~~2018~~		16. "Battery Firm Needs Workers," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 21, 1944, p. 12

	17. ~~"Battery Firm Needs Workers," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 21, 1944, p. 12~~		17. Fryxell

	18. ~~Fryxell~~		18. " 'Handie Talkie' Uses Explained," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 22, 1945, p. 3

	19. " ~~'Handie Talkie' Uses Explained~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~April 22~~, ~~1945~~, p. 3		19. "341 Employees Already Laid Off in Crisis," ''Telegraph-Herald'', May 9, 1946, p. 1

	20. "~~341 Employees Already Laid Off in Crisis~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~May 9~~, ~~1946~~, p. 1		20. "General Dry, Ward Observe 25-Year Tie," ''Telegraph-Herald'', December 14, 1955, p. 14

	21. "~~General Dry, Ward Observe 25~~-~~Year Tie~~," ''Telegraph-Herald'', ~~December 14~~, ~~1955~~, p. 14		21. "6 Out-of-the-City Firms Get Local Fire Protection," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 1, 1956, p. 12

	22. ~~"6 Out-of-the-City Firms Get Local Fire Protection," ''Telegraph-Herald'', April 1, 1956~~, p. 12		22. Deibel, p. 22

	23. ~~Deibel~~, p. 22		23. Ibid., p. 26

	24. ~~Ibid.~~, ~~p. 26~~		24. Deibel, William, e-mail, April 5, 2018

	25. ~~Deibel, William, e-mail, April 5, 2018~~		25. Fryxell

	26~~. Fryxell~~		26. Ibid.

	27. Ibid.


	[[Category: Industry]]		[[Category: Industry]]
	[[Category: Firsts]]		[[Category: Firsts]]

Randylyon at 19:13, 8 April 2018

2018-04-08T19:13:59Z

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Randylyon at 01:47, 8 April 2018

2018-04-08T01:47:51Z

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