In 1884, delegates to the United Brotherhood of Carpenters’ Fourth General Convention adopted this emblem to serve as a symbol of the union’s ideals. After a century and a quarter, some of the items are no longer common on jobsites, but the values they represent remain a vital part of the Brotherhood.
- The motto, “Labor Omnia Vincit,” means “Labor Conquers All Things.”
- The ruler signifies the Golden Rule.
- The compass reminds members to stay on track in their lives and work.
- The jack plane is a simple symbol of the trade.
- The colors were carefully chosen: pale blue for the purity of labor; dark red for the dignified labor that flows like blood through those who toil.
- The shield embodies the concept that all members are morally bound to protect the interests of the organization and its members.