ProvenanceDonated by SA Unions, 2014.SignificanceThe winning of reduced working hours and an eight hour day in South Australia by some groups of workers in 1873 was a major achievement for South Australian trade unions. The significant reduction in working hours from generally 9 or 10 hours in an unregulated labour market had to be won workplace by workplace. Obtaining an 8 hour day for all South Australian workers would take another 30-40 years.
Not surprisingly achievements were celebrated with dinners and processions where floats, union banners, badges and ribbons proclaimed the 888 goal for all working people. The first 8 Hour Day holiday was granted by the government in 1882 and celebrated the following year on 19 September. In 1900 1 September became the official 8 Hour Day (later Labour Day).
The 8 Hour Day holiday became the focus of not only union parades throughout the colony/state, but also a time for working class community picnics and sports events organised by trade unions. Combined union committees organised parades and associated events.DescriptionLarge three handled stein shaped trophy, silver, heavily embellished with cartouche floral panels and leaf patterns. Handles embellished with reticulated ridges on a batwing shaped handle.Creator (person)Creator (organisation)AcknowledgementDate of CreationBetween 1st January 1900 and 31st December 1940Date of UsageBetween 1st January 1900 and 31st December 1975Materialmetal Accession NumberHT 2014.0941On DisplaySouth Australian Maritime Museum
