Blacksmiths' Society of Australasia - [Union banner]

XR 41

fonds

ca. 1914-1923

430962

Digitised

Objects - canvas and silk, col. - approximately 300 x 356 cm.

The centre of the banner shows a blacksmith's forge, with men engaged in various activities. Beneath this are three inter-twined eights superimposed on an anchor. Surrounding this are images of a train, an automobile, scales of justice and clasped hands of brotherhood. The whole of the banner is surrounded by scrollwork and floral decoration, mainly incorporating waratahs and flannel flowers.
The image of the car is possibly based on a Franch Ballot or a Belgian Metallurgique make (reference: The Jubilee book of the Royal Automobile Club of Australia, 1903-1953)

On reverse are scenes of men at work at anvills, surrounded by images of a warship, a plough, the Australian coat-of-arms and a blacksmith's anvil with the slogan "Forging Ahead".

In 1972 the Union joined the Amalgamated Metal Workers' Union.

Restoration report by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, 1983, held by the Mitchell Library Pictures Section.
Digital order no:a128525

Titled from inscription at top. "Justice to all" and "Union is strength" to left and right of title. "Established 3rd Dec. 1909"; "United in Brotherhood as we are in Labour. To Win for Toil a Just Reward" at bottom. "Althouse & Geiger, Sydney" at lower left.
Title repeated on reverse.

Dated from the years the NN class 35 locomotive engine was built, 1914-1923, at the Eveleigh Railway Workshops.

This Working Life - State Library of New South Wales (1 February - 13 June, 2004). Applies to: reproduction
All in a Day's work: workers in Australia 1788-1939 - State Library of New South Wales