Summary

Sepia toned photograph of a group of tramway workers outside the Trades Hall in Adelaide, South Australia. The donor's father Thomas James Smith (circled in red) worked at the Newport Workshops and the tramways. He was also a member of the Labour Party. Born on 17 March 1886, Smith migrated to Australia from England in 1913, bringing with him his uncle and aunt. He died on 9 June 1961.

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

A group of men and women seated and standing outside the Trades Council Office. One window has a sign reading 'Eight Hours Celebrations Union'. Another window sign reads: 'Trades Council Office'.

Physical Description

Sepia photograph mounted on brown cardboard.

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