Booming Out: Mohawk Ironworkers Build New York

April 26, 2002–October 24, 2002

New York, NY

This photographic exhibition portrays the history, contemporary lives, and achievements of Mohawk ironworkers from two Native communities: Akwesasne (which straddles Ontario, Quebec, and New York State) and Kahnawake (near Montreal). From the Empire State Building to the George Washington Bridge, and the glory that was the World Trade Center—Mohawk people helped build them all.
Mohawk ironworkers have built bridges and skyscrapers for more than 100 years. "Booming out" from Native communities in upstate New York and Canada in the early 1900s, they found jobs on windswept girders, and quickly earned a reputation for being top-notch workers. Today, Mohawk men still leave home in search of work, continuing a legacy of bravery that spans six generations.