125 Years of Building Buffalo: Celebrating Local 6 Ironworkers

Last Friday, January 23rd, the Buffalo community came together to celebrate a truly historic milestone: the 125th Anniversary of Ironworkers Local No. 6. It was a night filled with familiar faces, great stories, and a shared appreciation for the hardworking men and women who have helped shape Western New York for more than a century.

For 125 years, Local 6 Ironworkers have played a vital role in building the Buffalo region. Their craftsmanship can be seen in stadiums, buildings, and bridges that stand today as iconic landmarks—structures that define our skyline, connect our neighborhoods, and represent the strength and resilience of this community. These are not just projects; they are symbols of pride, dedication, and skilled labor passed down through generations.

The evening was also marked by strong support from local and national leaders who recognize the lasting impact of Local 6. Sean Ryan, Mayor of the City of Buffalo, delivered remarks honoring the union’s legacy and formally declared January 25th as “Ironworkers Local No. 6 Day” through an Executive Chamber Proclamation—an acknowledgment of the union’s enduring contributions to the city it helped build.

Additionally, Tim Kennedy joined the celebration, sharing words of support and entering an official statement into the Congressional Record to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Ironworkers Local No. 6, ensuring their legacy is recognized at the national level.

While the night honored an incredible history, it was equally about celebrating the present. Friday evening was truly one to remember, filled with great music, amazing food, and plenty of laughs. It was an opportunity for old friends to reconnect, new memories to be made, and generations of ironworkers to come together in one room. The energy, camaraderie, and sense of brotherhood and sisterhood were felt throughout the entire celebration.

Here at Collins & Collins Attorneys, we were honored to help sponsor this milestone event and stand alongside Local 6 in celebrating 125 years of hard work and commitment to the Buffalo region. Supporting the men and women who help build our communities is something we are proud of, and being part of such a meaningful evening was truly special.

The 125th Anniversary of Ironworkers Local No. 6 was more than just a celebration—it was a tribute to the past, a recognition of the present, and a toast to the future. Here’s to 125 years of building Buffalo strong, and to many more years ahead.

Check out our photos from the event!