3-011-860 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Employment of Lancashire operatives, under the Public Works Act, at Revidge Hill, Corporation Park, Blackburn, 1864. 'There has been no difficulty in setting the men to work, and their health and physique have been manifestly improved by a change. Cotton is doubtless an important staple, but we manufacture it at an immense annual sacrifice of human vitality...In the sewers I found gangs of twenty-five operatives employed, with one skilled bricklayer; they earn from 2s. to 2s. 11d. daily. Those who were unskilled have now become quite proficient, and enjoy the work. To show the noble spirit that exists, I must mention one gang of eighteen overlookers who have taken a contract direct from the Corporation. They have flung themselves free of the relief committee, live on what they earn, and divide their profits according to the families of the men employed. I found 115 men engaged in the Corporation park. They were at work 400 ft. above the level of the Preston-road, upon the face of the rock to which the park rises. Terraces are being cut, and the picturesque escarpment is being prepared for the reception of trees, and shrubs characteristic of Alpine scenery...This retreat is within ten minutes' walk of the Townhall'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864.