Ceremony and protest JLP01_08_095149c

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England

Ceremony and protest JLP01_08_095149c

WD AND HO WILLS, WHITCHURCH LANE, CITY OF BRISTOL. Sir Maurice Laing at the topping out ceremony on the roof of the office building at the Wills tobacco factory at Hartcliffe, a packet of Embassy cigarettes has just been symbolically buried in the last pour of concrete. Behind the crowd workers hold up placards protesting about poor wages.
One placard refers to " Macs Labourer" wages, McAlpine was one of the main subcontractors for the project as was Drake and Scull which is also mentioned on the sign. This project was the first in which Laing acted only in a management capacity, not directly employing their workforce, instead using subcontractors

Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places

Media ID 24174951

© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection

1970s Ceremony People Protest Tobacco Factory

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > Bristol > Bristol

> Historic England > The way we were > Work

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a moment of both ceremony and protest at the Wills tobacco factory in Bristol. Sir Maurice Laing, standing on the roof of the office building during a topping out ceremony, symbolically buries a packet of Embassy cigarettes in the last pour of concrete. The significance behind this act is left to our imagination, perhaps representing an offering or tribute to the workers who have contributed to this monumental project. However, amidst the celebratory atmosphere, we cannot ignore the powerful message conveyed by workers holding up placards protesting poor wages. One particular placard catches our attention as it references "Macs Labourer" wages, highlighting dissatisfaction with McAlpine and Drake and Scull – two main subcontractors involved in this venture. It becomes evident that despite progress being made on this construction site, there are underlying issues regarding fair compensation for laborers. This photograph serves as a reminder that even within moments of grandeur and achievement, social disparities can persist. It encapsulates an era when protests were not confined to designated spaces but could emerge unexpectedly anywhere – even at prestigious ceremonies like this one. The image offers us a glimpse into history; it tells a story beyond its visual elements alone. As we contemplate its details, we are reminded that progress should be inclusive and equitable for all those involved in bringing dreams to life.

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