1878: The Knights of Labor establish an assembly in Minneapolis; they form another the following year in Saint. Paul. The Knights of Labor are known for their inclusiveness (accepting women and African American members), but they also support the Chinese Exclusion Act. Their key demand is the 8-hour day.

1881: The first Knights of Labor assembly is established in Duluth.

1882: The St. Paul Trades & Labor Assembly is founded with the assistance of the Knights of Labor Assembly. The Minneapolis Trades Assembly forms in 1883, Duluth in 1887, all with assistance from the Knights. Later they become central bodies under the American Federation of Labor.