Summary
Badge commemorating the Eight Hour Day Diamond Jubilee in Melbourne.
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.
Physical Description
This badge is circular in shape though its border is like a wreath of leaves. Within the border is a circle of blue enamel on which words ar e written. Within this circle is a light blue enamelled diamond shape attached to the inner circle at 4 edges with 2 words written. These words are above and below a logo of rings. There is a loop at the top of the badge.
More Information
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Cultural Gifts Donation from Mr Andrew Reeves, 29 Oct 1991
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Acknowledgement
Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program.
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Maker
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Inscriptions
Front: MELBOURNE EIGHT HOURS COMMITTEE/1916. DIAMOND/JUBILEE. Reverse: 3T. SILVER/C. BENTLEY.
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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
27 mm (Length), 1 mm (Width), 30 mm (Height)
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Keywords
8 Hours Day Celebrations, 8 Hours Day Movement, Societies, Trade Unions, Workers, Workers Rights, Working Life, Making History - Eight Hour Day