Summary

Portrait of the Federated Waterside Workers Union in 1908.

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

Group of men in a bush setting. There are three men who sit on a bench, one men leans on the bench, while the remaining nine men are standing behind the bench. All the figures are dressed in suits and hats.

Physical Description

Mounted photograph. The photograph is framed within a dark green cardboard mount. There is white text on the mount situated both above and below the image. The upper text states the groups title. The lower text gives the figures' names and the year.

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