[2] The summertime strike began as peaceful protests, but led to thousands rioting throughout the city, injuring hundreds of people.

The union sought the reinstatement of the 35 workers, along with pay raises, better working conditions, and job stability.

The Columbus Chamber of Commerce, anticipating conflict, hosted a mandatory meeting between the union and company in June 1910.

On July 23, its hearings concluded, finding that both parties were partly at fault, and that a peaceful resolution should be found.

They planned to not show up for work, instead selling union buttons around the city and picketing the company's streetcar barns.

They also hired a special policing force, supplied by the local John J. Mahoney Detective Agency, to protect the streetcars and facilities.