2009 marks the 150th anniversary of the demonstration on Copenhagen Fields when between 35,000 to 100,000 people marched on 21 April 1834 to show their support for the Tolpuddle Martyrs, a small group from Dorset who were sentenced with transportation for having taken an illegal oath. But their real crime in the eyes of the establishment was to have formed a trade union to protest about their meagre pay of six shillings a week – the equivalent of 30p in today's money and the third wage cut in as many years. (Pictured left the mural on Copenhagen Street celebrating the Tolpuddle Martyrs, recently joined by Lisa Pontecorvo).

As the men were being led back to prison after sentencing, George Loveless, one of the Martyrs, scribbled some words: 

“We raise the watchword, liberty. We will, we will, we will be free!" 

The rallying call underlined the Martyrs’ determination and has inspired generations of people to fight against injustice and oppression.  Transportation to Australia was brutal. Few ever returned for such a sentence as the harsh voyage and slavery took their toll.

The original demonstration was organised by the Central Committee of the Metropolitan Trade Unions and marched through London to Kennington Common with a wagon carrying a petition with over 200,000 signatures for the remission of the Martyrs' sentences.

After three years, during which the trade union movement sustained the Martyrs' families by collecting voluntary donations, the government relented and the men returned home with free pardons and as heroes. It was still to be many years before farm workers secured a lasting trade union and even longer for voting reform but as in the words of George Loveless, the Tolpuddle Martyrs helped “raise the watchword liberty”. 

Every year the story is remembered at the Tolpuddle Festival, held in the Dorset village where it all began. The event attracts thousands of people who enjoy the mixture of politics, theatre and music. There is also a procession of colourful trade union banners through the village.

In 2009 people from all over King's Cross will be joined by folk from Devon and all over the country to mark to anniversary of the original demonstration in London. In a week of events culminating in a musical spectacular at Edward Square between Copenhagen Street and The Cally on 25 April. King's Cross will be the focus of working people coming together in solidarity. So far plans include a procession from what was Copenhagen Fields (near Market St) to Edward Square possibly going down The Cally, bands, comedy, a play, schools events including assembly talks, the South East Regional TUC joining us after their AGM on the same day and much, much more.

The Tolpuddle Martyrs annual festival organisers, trade unions and local residents and workers in and around King's Cross have formed a small organising group. For those on Facebook regular news about the event is being shared on the "Support the Tolpuddle Martyrs – demo in King's Cross 21 April 2009" event page.

We are hoping that fringe events will take place around King's Cross in the week leading up to the big day. If you would like to be involved, particularly if you have time and/or skills or experience to offer please get in touch. Also, if you have an idea for a fringe event do let us know. Meanwhile, we'll post updates on this site so… as ever watch this space…