The first unions formed in the state were in Milwaukee, with the bricklayers in 1847 and carpenters in 1848.

Laborfest 2016 and its annual parade have a long tradition of celebrating the workers who built the city and continue to serve it. These images cover the day of festivities from Zeidler Square in Westown to Laborfest at the Henry Maier Festival Park on September 6.

Read the article and view the photo essay that were produced as companion features for this news report.

© Photo

Lee Matz