Catalogue Number
NMLH.1991.99.470
Object Name
Banner
Title
'Tobacco Workers Union'
Place
London, UK
People
Tobacco Workers Union
Description
The banner is a red pendant shape, with gold fringing at the bottom and two crossed brown tobacco leaves edged in gold in a white circle in the centre of the banner. The text reads 'Tobacco Workers' Union. Founded 1834.' There are two 'I heart the NHS' stickers on the banner which have been added later.
The banner was created around 1960, and the pro-NHS stickers indicate that it has been brought on protests or picket lines during it's lifetime. Unions showing solidarity to one another by bringing their banners to protests is a common tactic to show strength with a particular cause, as even if only a handful of Tobacco Workers' Union members are present, the banner tells both allies and antagonists that they represent the entire union, and that this union supports the cause.
The Friendly Society of Operative Tobacconists was a craft union established in 1834. The union was originally an all-male group of skilled craftsmen. In 1918, a decision was made to make the union an industrial union for all tobacco workers regardless of occupation or gender. This was implemented in 1925 and it was renamed the Tobacco Workersâ Union. Women were recruited to the union in large numbers during World War II and became most of the total membership.
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