There are many traits that make the union trades the gold standard in the construction industry. But the most defining characteristics are, without a doubt:
- the solidarity that defines the labor movement, and
- the top-notch training and skill that union workers bring to the workplace.
For SMART sheet metal workers, union solidarity and union craftsmanship go hand-in-hand. SMART Local 36 proved that with its work to rebuild the roof of the Missouri Historical Society Library and Research Center.
A historic disaster
In May 2025, St. Louis experienced its first deadly tornado since 1959.
For 27 minutes, the tornado tracked across more than 20 miles of Greater St. Louis, leaving devastation and destruction in its wake. Five people were killed, with an estimated $1.6 billion in property damage spanning 5,000 structures. One of those structures was the Missouri Historical Society Library and Research Center, particularly its exterior and distinctive domed copper roof.
The Library and Research Center features a large collection of Thomas Jefferson papers, one million photographs and prints, video and audio recordings, artifacts related to Lewis and Clark, and much more. Together, the copper dome and barreled roof were a symbol of the Center itself: historic, artful and beautiful.
And when it came time to rebuild this St. Louis-area staple, Local 36 and signatory contractor David Hyde & Associates were ready to step to the plate.
SMART craftsmanship on display
SMART architectural sheet metal workers brought the commitment and expertise that defines our union to the restoration project.
“David Hyde & Associates (DH&A) and union craftsmanship are on full display fabricating and installing this copper dome and barrel roof,” Local 36 wrote on Facebook back in November 2025.
Specifically, members meticulously placed 88 rows of gleaming copper panels onto the domed roof, bringing a historic building — whose origins date back to 1927 — back to life.
That’s the role we play in our communities!
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