Summary
Weekly contribution card for the Eight Hours Defence Committee, circa 1900.
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
Group of approximately 100 men standing in a field. The men at the front have bicycles. In the background are tents and trees.
Physical Description
White cardboard bound together by blue, adhesive cloth. Black text is printed on the front. Black grid lines are printed on the inside. Blue Trades Hall Council logo stamped on the back.
More Information
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Donation from Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC), 22 Oct 1987
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Issued By
Eight Hours Committee, Trades Hall Council, circa 1900
Date based on similar card held in the Victorian Trades Hall Council Collection at the University of Melbourne Archives. -
Format
Photograph, Sepia
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Overall Dimensions
9.5 cm (Length), 12 cm (Height)
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Keywords
8 Hours Day Celebrations, 8 Hours Day Movement, Societies, Trade Unions, Working Life, Workers Rights, Making History - Eight Hour Day