The banner of the Glasgow Branch of the National Union of Vehicle Builders, established in 1834.
The banner has a centre panel which shows a coach and has smaller panels at each corner, each with diferent images. The beehive symbolises industry, diligence, co-operation and an ordered community, while the clasped hands symbolise fraternity and fidelity. The other panels illustrate the benefits of joining the union. At the bottom left, an elderly couple are able to lead a comfortable life, presumably assisted by money from the union's pension fund. At bottom right a man who is injured and cannot go to work enjoys another benefit of union membership, a visit from a doctor paid for by the union.
Reference: 44.82.141 / PP.1973.16
Reproduced with the permission of Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Museums
Keywords:
beehives, carriages, clasped hands, coaches, doctors, health insurance, National Union of Vehicle Builders, pensioners, pensions, trade union banners, trade unions, trades unions