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Sunderland ceremony to mark epochal event in British trade unionism

[ August 1, 2025   //   ]

The RMT maritime and transport union is helping to mark a seminal event in British trade unionism that took place in Sunderland 200 years ago.

Five striking seafarers were shot dead by soldiers during an industrial dispute in the North Sands Massacre

The killings took place on 3 August 1825 during action organised by the Seamen’s Loyal Standard Association, one of the first attempts to form a trade union among British seafarers.

The dispute centred on dangerous and unpaid ballast work being forced on crews returning to port. After talks collapsed, strikers used their small coble boats to try and stop ships leaving the River Wear.

The next day, a steam packet carrying magistrate John Davidson and armed troops from the 3rd Light Dragoons moved downriver. When they reached North Sands, where more than 100 people, including women and children had gathered, the troops opened fire.

At least five people were killed and many more injured. No one was ever held to account.

This year, a public procession and memorial organised by the North Sands Bicentennial Committee took place on Sunday 3 August at St Peter’s Campus, Sunderland University, with readings, music and a march to the graves of those who died.

RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said: “The North Sands Massacre was an early example of brutal suppression against trades unionism and those who work at sea. Seafarers came together to protect their rights, their safety and their livelihoods and they were met with deadly force by the state.

“Two hundred years on, we honour their memory, their sacrifice and take heart from their heroic example into our current and future battles as trade unionists on sea and land.”  

Dr David Gordon Scott from The Open University and lead organiser of the North Sands Massacre bicentennial commemorations said:  “The North Sands Massacre was an event of enormous national significance in 1825.

“It was reported in newspapers across the country and discussed at the highest political level.

“The people of Sunderland at the time were outraged, believing that innocent people had been murdered by soldiers.

“The sailors’ union purposely referred to the event as the “ever to be remembered 3rd August” to indicate the magnitude of what happened on that day in Sunderland.

“The 1825 North Sands Massacre should never have been forgotten, but sadly, over time, it has.

“The people killed, and the other strikers, were fighting for a decent wage and a dignified life. Their struggle in 1825 is part of the much longer struggle for worker rights and welfare support that we have today.

“Our gratitude for those who gave their lives as part of this struggle should indeed “ever-be-remembered” at commemorative events.”

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