This pre-1908 Associated Shipwrights Society trade union badge is a rare and historically significant piece, representing the early shipbuilding trade union movement in Great Britain. Issued before the 1908 merger with the Ship Constructive Association and the Amalgamated Society of Drillers and Hole Cutters, this badge is an artifact of early 20th-century labor history in the British shipbuilding industry.
This specific example:
Dimensions: 52.95 mm (height) x 68.25 mm (width)
Manufacturer: G. Tutill, 83 City Road, London
Ribbon Condition: Very poor condition (please refer to pictures for assessment)
Design Features
Obverse:
Multi-rayed oval star, symbolizing the importance and unity of shipwrights.
Central applied copper plaque with a rope border, depicting a sailing ship under construction, representing the shipwrights' craftsmanship.
Suspension bar is missing.
Reverse:
Inscribed in relief: "G. Tutill, 83 City Road, London", confirming it was produced by George Tutill, a renowned British badge maker specializing in trade union and fraternal society regalia.
Historical Context
The Associated Shipwrights Society
Founded as a shipbuilding trade union, advocating for better wages, working conditions, and workers' rights in British shipyards.
Played a key role in organizing labor protections for shipbuilders during a time of rapid industrialization.
Mergers and Evolution
In 1908, it merged with the Ship Constructive Association and the Amalgamated Society of Drillers and Hole Cutters, forming the Shipconstructors' and Shipwrights' Association.
In 1963, it merged with the United Society of Boilermakers, Shipbuilders, and Structural Workers, forming a larger labor union to protect maritime and industrial workers.
Importance in British Labor History
This badge represents the early labor movement in Great Britain, particularly in shipbuilding—a key industry in Britain’s economy and military power.
The badge would have been worn by union members to signify their affiliation and solidarity.
This pre-1908 Associated Shipwrights Society Trade Union Badge, produced by George Tutill, London, is a rare and valuable artifact of British shipbuilding and labor history. Despite the poor ribbon condition, its detailed design, historical significance, and connection to early labor unions make it a highly collectible piece for trade union historians, maritime collectors, and industrial heritage enthusiasts.
For further verification and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel details, and manufacturer’s markings.