'Effects of the Gas Strike in London', c 1898

Effects of the Gas Strike in London', c 1898. Wood engraving illustrating London during the gas workers strikes of 1898. There is a rush on the purchase of candles which are being used to light a railway station, theatre, drapers, hat makers and streets, whilst two men see the strike as a 'fine opportunity' for crime. The gas workers strike was led by Will Thorne (1857-1946) who formed the gas workers union. Within two years 60,000 had signed up to Thorne's union, which had negotiated better pay and shorter working hours. Taken from a collection of prints and books documenting the early history of the gas industry amassed by Sir Arthur Elton. ©SSPL/Science Museum