Summary

Photograph of the banner of the Australasian Federated Butchers Union, Victorian Branch, mounted on a wagon for a procession, circa 1905. George Grant was probably the artist of the banner. The photograph has been passed down through the family of George Grant, and it is likely that George Grant was commissioned to paint the banner.

George Grant was trained at the School of Art associated with the National Gallery of Victoria, apparently in the 1880s, and then worked as an artist, specialist house painter, and banner artist. Several of his paintings are held by the Ballarat Art Gallery. At least some of his banners were painted at his house in Kensington, where he erected a roof above the path down the side of the house, and stretched the banners against the wall of the house. Married three times, Grant died in 1935.

This image is part of a collection relating to Australian trade unions and the Eight Hour Day. Action taken by stonemasons on 21 April 1856 led to the establishment of the Eight Hour Day, with the government agreeing that workers employed on public works should enjoy an eight hour day with no loss of pay. It was a world first and became emblematic of the rights of labour. In recognition of the significance of this achievement, April 21 was made a public holiday in 1879 and commemorative marches were held each year from 1879 until 1951. The Eight Hour Day holiday was renamed Labour Day in 1934. In 1955 the Labour Day march and celebrations were replaced by Moomba celebrations.

Description of Content

Men is suits surrounding a horse-drawn cart on a street. The Australasian Federated Butchers Union banner is hanging from a metal structure on the cart. The Victorian Sugar Refinery Employees Union cart is in the background.

Physical Description

Black and white photograph mounted on green cardboard.

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