A Monument to a Movement
Jan 11th, 2012 | By Matthew Brown | Category: Articles, Events, FrontpageClarion House in Pendle, Lancashire, will be marking its centenary in August this year and celebrating its survival as a monument to a once thriving part of the Labour movement.
The Nelson ILP Clarion is the sole survivor of the early socialist Clarion movement that existed to propagate views for a fairer, more humane society.
Over time hundreds of Clarion Houses around the country have closed or become private buildings. In 2011 the last remnants of the Clarion at Chevin End above Menston was legally wound up.
But a dedicated group have kept the Nelson Clarion on Jinny Lane, Newchurch in Pendle open and serving refreshments every Sunday so passing ramblers and cyclists can meet with local socialists and relax in a setting that still openly supports socialist views.
There are many costs involved in keeping this unique ‘monument to a movement’ in good repair, but it is too important a part of our Labour history to lose.
All are invited to help celebrate 100 years of the Clarion on 11th and 12th August 2012 and if anyone can persuade their trade union or trades council to make a contribution that would be really appreciated.
More information from the Clarion website: www.clarionhouse.org.uk
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