Keelmen of Newcastle upon Tyne, 1638-1852

This volume provides a comprehensive overview of the keelmen, who were a major group of workers in Newcastle upon Tyne during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. It includes documents such as letters from local authorities, reports of strikes and riots, and accounts of prosecutions and naval impressment. The introduction places these documents in the context of their historical times, highlighting the struggles and achievements of the keelmen.

Format: Hardback
Length: 439 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2021
Publisher: Surtees Society

A comprehensive collection of documents, meticulously edited and annotated, provides a profound insight into the lives and struggles of a significant group of workers. Situated in Newcastle upon Tyne, this community comprises keelmen, watermen, and other laborers, numbering over 1800 able men, the majority of whom hail from Scotland and the Borders. This volume serves as a lamentation, documenting yet another strike that unfolded in the early 17th century. For centuries, the coal from the north-east of England was transported down the River Tyne using keels, a type of shallow-drafted barge equipped with a large sail and a single towering oar. The arduous task of manning these vessels, from the point where the coal reached the river to where the crew of the keel loaded it into sea-going ships bound for the east coast, including London, and beyond, was perilous, unpleasant, physically demanding, and poorly remunerated. The hardships endured by the keelmen in their pursuit of better conditions, the preservation of their livelihoods, and the support of themselves and their families during illness and old age earned them a reputation as unruly and even dangerous. However, their unwavering solidarity and independent charitable endeavors also showcased a remarkable sense of community and foreshadowed the emergence of trade unionism. This comprehensive volume brings together a diverse range of primary source material, sourced from numerous local and national archives. Letters exchanged between the city of Newcastle's local authorities and Cabinet Ministers, ranging from Robert Harley to Robert Peel, vividly portray the keelmen's behavior and the urgent need for government intervention to address their concerns. These letters highlight the ongoing disputes and challenges faced by the keelmen, as they sought fair treatment and support from the authorities. At the same time, the volume also acknowledges the presence of supporters who stood by the keelmen, including the renowned writer Daniel Defoe. Spanning over 200 years of keelmen's activity, this collection encompasses strikes, riots, and prosecutions, not only against rioting keelmen but also against those who proclaimed their support for their cause. The narratives and accounts shed light on the complex social, economic, and political dynamics that shaped the lives of these workers, providing a rich tapestry of historical insights. Through meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, this edition offers a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the history and experiences of the keelmen and their contributions to the industrial and social landscape of early modern England.

Weight: 844g
Dimension: 145 x 222 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780854440818