“When We Get Our Tuppence Back”

Description

The bosses at Lithgow lower the pay rate for coal by a tuppence. The miners go on strike: "We will never work for you Till you give that tuppence back, Charlie dear." The strike is bitter, with many scabs brought in. But the miners hold firm

Historical references

  • 1911 - Strike at the Hoskin Mine near Lithgow, New South Wales. The miners asked for a raise of tuppence per load; mine boss Charles Hoskin responded by lowering pay rates the same amount. Hoskin brought in scabs and resorted to intimidation, but eventually the miners won.

References

  1. Fahey-Eureka, pp. 208-209, "When We Get Our Tuppence Back" (1 text, 1 tune)
  2. BI, FaE208

About

Author: unknown
Earliest date: 1973
Found in: Australia