The General Strike in Sheffield: 10 Days in May 1926
Friday, 8th May 2026
11:30 am to 12:30 pm
Carpenter Room, Central Library
Free
Join Sheffield City Archives and Local Historian Dr John Baxter to mark the centenary of the General Strike in Sheffield
In May 1926 Britain experienced its first – and only – general strike.
The strike had its roots in a long running dispute between coal miners and colliery owners. The mine owners wanted to reduce pay and working hours of miners to increase their profits.
The British economy was plunged into crisis by the impact of World War One (1914-1918).
In Sheffield approximately 80,000 workers went out on strike.
An exhibition on the General Strike can be seen in the foyer of the Central Library throughout May.
Central Library
Surrey Street
Sheffield
S1 1XZ
The soup kitchen at the Endowed School Room. Woodhouse during the General Strike 1926, Picture Sheffield S03749.
Miners queuing for strike pay at the Cross Keys public house, 1926, Picture Sheffield: S03748
Woodhouse co-operative workers preparing to distribute free loaves during the general strike 1926, Picture Sheffield: S016581