(PENNSYLVANIA) Wynkoop George C Proclamation By the Sheriff

Sale 2380 - Lot 211

Price Realized: $ 1,625

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Estimate: $ 1,000 - $ 1,500

(PENNSYLVANIA.) Wynkoop, George C. Proclamation! By the Sheriff of Schuylkill Co. Letterpress broadside, 20 3/4 x 13 1/4 inches; folds, minimal wear. (MRS) Pottsville, PA, 27 July 1868

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In response to poor working conditions in the Schuylkill County coal mines, a series of strikes were called in July 1868 demanding an eight-hour work day. The Workmen's Benevolent Association was founded on 23 July 1868 as America's first substantial mining union. Four days later, this proclamation was issued in an effort to crush the strikers: "Whereas there are now evil-disposed persons in Schuylkill County who by threats of violence and other demonstrations contrary to peace and good order of the community prevent persons who are willing to work . . . I hereby order, command and strictly enjoin the Marshal of Police . . . to arrest all and every person who may commit or threaten to commit any act of violence . . . and to disperse all crowds and assemblies above declared as unlawful." An important and apparently unknown artifact from the earliest days of the mining labor movement.