The display promises to give a fascinating insight into the
lives of ordinary Scots workers who involved themselves in the
development of the early trade union movement. Highlights of the
exhibition are: - The original deed of establishment in 1761 of
the Fenwick Weavers' Society in Ayrshire which is regarded as
the world’s first ever co-operative society - A membership card
issued almost two centuries ago to one of the first ever trade
unionists in Scotland - The service and pay book for John Dunlop
who fought against fascism in the Spanish Civil War Finding out
more about ordinary folk rather than the 'great and the good' is
always a challenge when using documentary sources, but
exhibitions like this can at least give us a glimpse into
aspects of the lives of our more 'humble' ancestors. The
exhibition runs from 2nd September until the end of October at
George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, and should be well worth a visit.
More details can be found at:
http://www.nls.uk/exhibitions/treasures |Image: Simon Howden /