Penrhyn Strike (1900-1903)

The Penrhyn strike, also known as the Great Strike of Penrhyn, was a dispute between the quarrymen of Penrhyn slate quarry near Bethesda, north-west Wales, and the quarry owner, Lord Penrhyn. It began on 22 November 1900 and lasted three years, ending in November 1903. It is often described as the longest dispute in British industrial history.

Background

At the end of the 19th century Penrhyn was the largest slate quarry in the world, employing nearly 3,000 men. Welsh slate output had peaked in 1898, but the industry was exposed to falling prices and competition. This is described as the second strike at the quarry, indicating earlier conflict between owner and workforce.

The dispute

The conflict is described in some sources as a strike and in others as a lock-out, reflecting disagreement over which side began it. Its three-year length meant prolonged loss of earnings for quarrying families in Bethesda and the surrounding area.

Outcome

The workers returned in November 1903 on terms set by Lord Penrhyn.

Effect on roofing

The dispute disrupted supply of Welsh roofing slate just as builders had growing alternatives, including clay tiles, imported slate and, soon after, cement-based and asphalt products. Historians see it as marking the beginning of the industry's long decline. After 1903 a wider depression brought pay cuts and job losses, and eight Ffestiniog quarries closed between 1908 and 1913.

Remembrance

The strike remains an important event in Welsh labour history and is interpreted as part of the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales World Heritage Site.