Summary

Ribbon belonging to the Victorian Operative Bricklayers Society used to celebrate the Eight Hour Day.

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.

Physical Description

A blue ribbon with gold tassels and strip at one end of the ribbon and a gold brooch attached with staples to the other end. A safety pin is glued to the back of the brooch. Gold writing is embossed on the front of the ribbon. The brooch is ornate.

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