Historical information

The Operative Bricklayers' Society (OBS) was a British New Model Trade Union based in London.

In 1888 there were 50 members of the Ballarat Bricklayers' Society. There were 100 bricklayers labourers. (Ballarat Star, 10 August 1888)

"THE BRICKLAYERS' STRIKE AT BALLARAT
From Our Correspondent.
BALLARAT, Saturday.
It is understood that the bricklayers' strike will terminate shortly. One leading contractor has intimated his intention of complying with union rules, and already he has put society men on to work under the 45 hours' system. Other contractors will, it is expected, do likewise next week, and then building operations will again be in full swing. (Age, 10 September 1888)

Physical description

Printed illustrated certificate on paper for the Operative Society Bricklayers No 3 Ballarat Lodge

Inscriptions & markings

This is to certify that No 3 Lodge Ballarat was admitted a Member of this Society on the 17th day of May 1888
Signed [H.A. Ballows ?] Genl Secretary {J ? ] James Lodge Secretary