The Engine Assembly Line

[JoeCB]

Both of my grandfathers worked for Ford. Both started at Highland park then moved to the Rouge when Model A production started. Both being immigrants, and like most immigrants and blacks you started in the foundry. Grandpa used to say, had hot metal in front of you and snow blowing on your back. If you survived the foundry and worked hard you could move out to a better job. If you were really lucky, like my paternal grandpa George you got a cushy job as a second shift janitor at the Lincoln - Mercury administration building. My maternal grandpa Peter was diagnosed with silicosis from the foundry sand. It was all about the money, working hard to support one's family. I guess that your personal health was secondary. All considered, relative to today's standards they did pretty well, both grandpas raised families on their single incomes, owned homes, bought a new Ford every few years and both managed to also own a simple little summer cottage.
Joe B