***
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:
THE LIBRARY
REGENTS
||||||||
CLASS
OF THE
BOOK
"OPEN PRACHUTHERANEG
UNIVERSITY
MINIBUSA
8B
SITY OF
ARTIBUS
Ø
SMAÐUR:OAKAOTIATI
12008 walk,
334
C782
1831
MINNESOTA
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
SECOND
CO-OPERATIVE CONGRESS,
HELD IN BIRMINGHAM,
OCTOBER 4, 5, and 6, 1831,
AND
te t
COMPOSED OF DELEGATES FROM THE CO-OPERATIVE
SOCIETIES OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND.
€
REPORTED BY ORDER OF THE CONGRESS.
BY JOHN AND JAMES POWELL.
BIRMINGHAM:
"I wish the working classes would see their own interests, and take the
management of their affairs into their own hands."-MR. SECRETARY PEEL.
PRINTED AND PUBLISHED AT THE MIDLAND REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE,
24, HIGH-STREET;
AND SOLD AT ALL CO-OPERATIVE STORES IN THE UNITED KINGDOM.
PRICE THREE-PENCE.
*** An important Statistical Table, with the number of
Members in each Society, amount of Funds, nature of Trade,
4
&c. &c. is published with this Pamphlet, price 2d.
334
сто
18:31
3
SECOND MEETING
OF THE
CO-OPERATIVE CONGRESS.
ACCORDING to the resolution of the Congress held in Man-
chester, in May last, the Second Meeting took place in Bir-
mingham, on the 4th, 5th, and 6th days of October, 1831.
A circular, calling the Meeting, was sent to all the Societies,
whose directions were known, by Mr. Pare, of Birmingham,
accompanied by an Address from the first Birmingham Society,
urging the great importance of the subjects to be discussed at
the Congress. As early as Sunday evening, October 2, some
of the Delegates had arrived from London, and by Tuesday
morning, Delegates from nearly forty Societies, in all parts of
the Three Kingdoms, had arrived. Letters also were received,
in reply to the Circular, from about 30 other Societies.
As an instance of great zeal in the cause of Co-operation, it
must be mentioned, that two Delegates walked the whole dis-
tance from Glasgow, (near 300 miles.) We believe we may
Say they met with a real Co-operative spirit among their fellow
delegates.
At eight o'clock on Tuesday morning, the Delegates assembled
in a commodious room, in the old Square, in Birmingham, and
ROBERT OWEN, Esq. was immediately called to the chair.
F
The CHAIRMAN opened the business with a suitable and im-
pressive address to the assembled Delegates, on the magnitude
and importance of the business they had to consider, and the
philanthropic objects they all had in view.
1138573
4
!
}
It was resolved that Mr. William Pare, of the first Birmingham so-
ciety, be requested to act as Secretary to the meeting. That Mr. James
Powell be requested fully to report the whole business of the present
meeting, and get it published and sent, in the shape of a pamphlet, to
the different Co-operative societies.
The Secretary then read the resolutions of the last Congress meeting;
also the names of the different societies to which circulars had been
sent, calling the present meeting, and requesting them to send answers
to the twelve questions therein contained, either by delegate or letter to
the present meeting.
The letters from the respective societies, in answer to those questions,
were then read.
WHOLESALE PURCHASING ESTABLISHMENT.
Mr. OWEN then said he would make a few remarks respecting the
plan proposed at the last Congress, of opening a wholesale warehouse
at Liverpool. He thought the only good the societies could effect in
this matter was to communicate to each other a knowledge of the best
markets for different articles. The three principal things first necessary
for them to devote their attention to, were-1st-To educate our children,
and re-educate ourselves; 2nd-To ascertain the best means of forming
a permanent union; and 3rd-To make arrangements for obtaining the
best of every thing in the best manner. As to the wholesale purchas-
ing, he thought the societies were incapable of competing with the
large manufacturers and capitalists; but he recommended the so-
cieties, in case they thought it practicable, to form a committee, to
enquire into the particular circumstances, and they would then have a
better idea whether the thing was practicable or not.
The Secretary then read the circulars sent by Mr. Dixon, as Chairman
of the Trustees appointed at the last Congress, and after consideráble
discussion it was resolved-
"That a statement be drawn up, showing what sum has been pro-
mised to be subscribed by the different societies, for the purpose of
showing the practicability of establishing a wholesale warehouse.'
11
Mr. DETROSIER undertook to carry this resolution into effect.
Mr. OWEN here remarked that the distance at which Co-operative
societies had kept themselves from each other was one great cause why
they had been unable, up to this time, to form themselves into a com-
munity, and advised that the views of every society should be concen-
trated to one grand point.
•
Mr.JOHN BUCKLEY, from the third Leicester society then rose and
thanked the societies, through the medium of the delegates present, for
the support which they had so kindly bestowed upon his society,
since the last Congress; and more especially the members of the first
Kendal society, they having in some instances advanced the money for
goods before they had received the value.
Mr. GEORGE SKENE, of the first Manufacturing Community,
London, rose to report the progress of his society, the members of which
he stated were generally of opinion that it was impossible for the
wholesale company to succeed, from the great competition with which they
would have to contend. The community he represented did not at present
trade. They proposed to manufacture, but this they had not as yet got
sufficient money for; they had established a reading-room, library, and
public discussion: they had circulated tracts and addresses. He knew
they had some regulations which the members present, or at least a
part of them, would not agree with; but he (Mr. Skene) would rather
be clogged by the submission to a minority in such a case, than carry
them against their consent by the pleasure of the majority. He ex-
pected such a state of the country would soon arrive, when the working
classes would be compelled to form voluntary associations to carry our
views into effect.
5
Mr. F. S. BEATTY, of the first Belfast Society, said that, from the
experience of that Society, he believed the wholesale company would be
a great advantage if carried on in a proper manner.
Mr. MILNE, of Pemberton, said he was requested by the Calico
Printers' Society, at Chorley, to state their progress. They have 1,500
Members, and were now willing to pay down 1s. each member as their
subscription, and the remaining 3s. each within the time limited. They
had opened works, and expected to be able to spend £300. per week at
the Liverpool wholesale store. He was sure, from his own experience,
that the wholesale company would do good.
Mr. OWEN.-The wholesale houses, which derive great advantages
from wholesale trade, turn two millions per annum. If, however, the
Societies had the means to improve their dealing by going to Liverpool,
they should do so; but he was of opinion that they would not.
The Delegates, after some further remarks, adjourned to take refresh
ment for half an hour.
CO-OPERATIVE MISSIONS.
Mr. SMITH proposed that the question as to the expediency of cm-
ploying Co-operative Missionaries be discussed, which was seconded by
the Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT, and agreed to.
Mr. SMITH said, there was such a want of knowledge as to render
it necessary we should adopt some means of disseminating it for the fur-
therance of our views; the want of knowledge was the reason why many
Societies did not flourish. He had, however, found minds of a benevo-
lent texture in all the Societies; it was delightful to find that no Society
was without at least one Member sufliciently enlightened in the principles
of Co-operation, to be able to inform the others. He thought a man had
more influence in strange Societies than in his own: he hoped he should
not be misunderstood, he only wished advantage might be taken of this
circumstance, in order to effect the greatest good. He therefore recom-
mended the employment of Missionaries, and that they should be sup-
ported by a weekly subscription throughout the Societies. He thought
this would be generally approved of; of course, the number of Mis-
sionaries must be limited by the amount of subscriptions.
The Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT, in seconding the proposition said most
people were fond of variety; on this principle, the Methodists found it
most advantageous to change their Ministers periodically. He thought
Missionaries would do very great good, for nearly 99 out of every 100
Societies were still ignorant of the principles of Co-operation.
Mr. HIRST said, we want Members for this service, who had already
as it were, like good soldiers, fought to their knces in blood against
the objections and opposition, arising from the prejudices and ignorance
of the Members of their own Societies. Men were wanted who could
tell the different Societies how to overcome their difficulties, who could
give a practical Lecture as well as a theoretical one. The Huddersfield
Society saw the necessity of this so strongly that they had expended
about £20. in letters advising different Societies, and out of 150 Mem-
bers not more than about five objected to the proposed Missions.
Mr. MANDLEY, of Manchester, said, Members of his Society had
given Lectures at Ashton-under Line, Glossop, and Ratcliff-bridge,and had
got up "The Lancashire and Yorkshire Co-operator." In consequence of
these exertions three Societies had been formed. He was instructed to
support the Missions. Some of his fellow-Members had walked seven
or eight miles in an evening to deliver Lectures on Co-operation, and
they had been amply repaid by the success they had met. The pages
of the L. and F. Co-operator were always open for Co-operative Intelli-
gence, and if they received support to the extent of 5,000 copies, they
would be able to give away another 3,000. It had been seen from sc-
veral of the letters to this Congress, that there were many Societies which
6
were clearly not Co-operative, and in time they will clash together, and
be almost inferior to the common Benefit Societies. He trusted that
the Societies would support and extend the sale of the L. and Y. Co-
operator, and thanked the societies which had supported it,and especially
that of Halifax.
Mr. NICHOLSON, of Halifax, acknowledged the compliment
paid by Mr. MANDLEY to his Society. He had found that informa-
tion was very much wanted. He had attended a Meeting held for form-
ing a Society, and one of the chief questions asked on electing a Mem-
ber was,
"Are you a real Radical Reformer ?" and it was agreed that
the Society's property should be in transferrable shares, thus striking
at the root of Co-operation, for two or three Members might be able to
buy up all the shares.
Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT said the poor were already so much ground
down, that it was impossible for them to subscribe much towards Mis-
sions, it must therefore be as little as possible. It would be most desirable
that they should be carried on as free of expence to the Societies as
night be. He proposed that the wealthier classes in each town should
be called on by a Missionary before going to Lecture, and sell them
tickets of admission, say at 2s. each. He thought by this means the ex-
pences of the Meeting might be defrayed, and then a number of tickets
might be given away.
Mr. WARDEN said, that some time ago he agreed with another old
Co-operator to commence Lecturing, and they took a room in London,
charging only a halfpenny each person for admission. 2,000 hand bills
were printed, and it was particularly announced that the subject was
for the good of the Working Classes, and about 500 attended. He was
sure the West London Societies would willingly pay for one Missionary.
He urged every man to do something in this cause; those who had not
the moral courage to commence as speakers should give away and sell
the tracts, and by these means the expences might be defrayed.
Mr. HIRST stated, that he had given Lectures in the Union-rooins,
and the Huddersfield Society had paid the whole expences, which
amounted to about 5s. per night. He and other Members of that So-
ciety went nine or ten miles to Lecture in the evenings, and walked back
again afterwards, sometimes not reaching home till the morning. He
had found a great want of knowledge among the Societies, but thought if
the Missionaries were supported while on their labours among them, and
lodging provided, little besides coach fare would have to be paid out of
the general fund.
Mr. F. S. BEATTY said, the Belfast Society had ever since its
formation been anxious to gain knowledge.
Mr. DETROSIER, although he could hardly consider himself a Co-
operative Missionary, felt he was engaged in the same noble employ-
ment, the improvement of men's minds. He had been generally known
as the friend of the poor, and it being understood that he was working
for the good of the people, he had always been able to get an audi-
and he thought that if the Societies could create the same
impression when the Missionaries were about to Lecture, they would
be able to maintain themselves, and very little would be required from
the fund.
ence,
Mr. R. HARRISTON, of Glasgow, thought many men might be found
in that town, who would be willing to devote themselves to this cause;
and recommended that a fund should be formed, to support these minis-
ters of righteousness. (Cheers.) The Societies in Glasgow were ex
changing their goods, and using labour notes instead of money.
Mr. PARE said, he had lectured at different places, and always
found, that when his Lecture was advertised gratuitously, he had an
overflowing audience. He had received many invitations from different
Societies, to visit and Lecture to them, who offered to pay his expenses ;
7
and he would gladly have accepted their invitations, had not other busi-
ness prevented. He really believed, that, were one or two good Co-
operators to offer themselves as Missionaries, they would be supported.
Mr. WARDEN mentioned an instance of the profits gained by Co-
operative Tracts, even at the cheap price of ten for a penny. Indeed,
had he been at the Reform Meeting, on Monday, he would have en-
deavoured to have put a Co-operative Tract into the hand of every man
to take home with him. He had found, that the sale of tracts after the
Lectures, had, in many instances, produced sufficient profit to pay the
expenses of the Lectures.
The Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT was willing to devote a part of his time
to diffuse the System of Co-operation, on his expenses being paid; and
thought sufficient might be obtained at the Lectures, to pay expenses.
Mr. GEORGE SKENE had been much engaged in Missions. He
had held many Meetings at Spitalfields and elsewhere; and generally
found, that after delivering a Lecture, he could sell 5s. worth of tracts,
and this paid his expenses. He found it better to sell the tracts, even
at ten for a penny, than give them away, as they were read with greater
interest, and were not likely to be made into pipe-lights. (Laughter.)
He had not lately been able to devote as much time to the cause as for-
merly, but he was now willing to devote himself to the furtherance of
the System in any way, and to go to any part of the world for that
pur-
pose-so convinced was he that the Co-operative System was the only
one which could permanently improve tlie condition of man.
Mr. HIRST recommended that a Committee should be appointed by
the Congress, which should always be conferring with the different So-
cieties and Auxiliary Committees.
Mr. PARE—We must be guided in our Missionary exertions by the
experience of the rest of the world. In other Societies of this kind we
always find a Parent Institution or Committee in London, by which the
practical part of the business in managed. The Committees in smaller
towns collect subscriptions and recommend Missionaries, &c. I recom-
mend the same course in this case, and think we may rely on such men
as Messrs. OWEN, SKENE, WARDEN, and TRENCH to manage the busi
ness in London, which, if left to the Committees at Manchester, Bir-
mingham, Huddersfield, and other places, would be impracticable. For
instance, a candidate for this employment would have to travel to these
Committees before entering on his work, for then to examine him as to
his fitness. Mr. TRENCH tells me, that in the south of England the
knowledge of Co-operation is very imperfect, while in the north we
know there is more spirit. In a community there will be many agricul-
turists wanted, and for them we must look to the south. Let us act on
the experience of the present Missionary and Bible Societies, instead of
striking out a fresh and untrodden path of our own; and having ap-
pointed an active, zealous, and intelligent Committee in London, we can
only strongly recommend the Societies to form Auxiliary Committees, to
aid and correspond with the London Committee, all the acts of which
would of course be always subject to the approval of the Congress.
Mr. BUCKLEY, of Leicester, thought these flaus could not be carried
into operation till the next Congress, and, in the mean time, such indi-
viduals as were willing, might advertise themselves as Co-operative Mis-
sionaries. He should wish Mr. HIRST to be one, and that any Society
who might desire his services, should have them on paying his expenses.
This would be an itinerant Mission, and Mr. MARRIOTT'S suggestion as
to local preachers on the plan of the Methodists is worthy attention:
the local preachers are the local props of that body. If we were to
have regular plans like them, and local Missionaries to act together,
and let them go gratuitously to the different villages in their neighbour-
hood, I believe their services would be most effective, as their motives
would spring from the heart. I would also advise, that one or two itinerant
preachers be employed, to visit such Societies asinay desire their services.
8
Mr. OWEN.—The question is as to the frame-work of the Missions
and, I think, the one proposed appears well adapted for the pur-
pose.
Mr. AUSTIN, Mг. THOMPSON, and Mr. HARRISTON spoke shortly to
the same effect, and the Resolution was unanimously agreed to.
Mr. PARE then read a letter from Mr. Doherty, editor of The Voice
of the People; also the replies of the Birkacre Society.
The other Resolutions, relating to the Missions, were then proposed,
and after a short discussion on each, agreed to.
Mr. THOMPSON proposed that a sum, not exceeding 2d. per mile,
be allowed the Missionaries for travelling expenses, and 1s. 6d. per day
for other expenses. He believed he enjoyed as much pleasure in his
cating, drinking, and travelling as any man, and it eost him no more.
Several Members thought the allowance quite insufficient, and
Mr. PARE proposed an amendment. He said, if we were all as wise
and prudent as our friend Thompson, we might do this on 1s. 6d. per
day; he should be glad to find that less than 1s. 6d. per day was sufficient
and he rather expected it would be, and that the Missionaries might go
without scrip or purse, and run in among the Societies for what they
might require.
Mr. WARDEN seconded the amendment. He had gone twelve
miles on a Sunday morning, had his breakfast only, and returned at
night, and he was sure he had worn out a shilling's worth of shoe-leather.
Mr. OATES said, that having heard much discussion on this subject
in the National Association, he knew it was impossible to legislate on this
subject so as to suit all cases. The expense of coach-hire was so vari-
able that the amount of expense must always rely on the integrity of the
person sent, who, it should be remembered, would always give his time.
Mr. THOMPSON.-We must also remember that we are legislating
for working men, and we must sympathise with their wants, and let
them see that we fix the allowance so low that we are not making a
profit by our labours.
Mr. OWEN had had considerable experience in paying servants both
at high and low wages, and he found that those paid high were by far
the most economical; besides, if we employ men with families, they
cannot exist on the very limited allowance of my economical friend,
Mr. Thompson.
The 11th Resolution was then passed unanimously.
pur-
Mr. THOMPSON-We call ourselves Co-operative Societies; there
are many points on which we all agree. There are some others on
which some have different opinions. Some think the main object is to
get money, and then divide it; while others think (very properly) there
is nothing of Co-operation in such an object. Now it is very important
we should not have different doctrines being preached, and for this
pose there should be some Code of Co-operative doctrines which may be
referred to. This is a matter of some difficulty, but until it can be
effected, I suggest that Messrs. Owen, Morgan, Gray, and myself, and
others, who have written on Co-operation, do give a copy of the whole of
their works to each Missionary, and that it be an instruction from this
Congress that no Missionary preach any doctrine in which all of such
writers do not agree; and that the London Committee draw up and print
a Code of Instructions for the use of the Missionaries.
Mr. SMITH seconded this proposition.
The Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT.—I beg to make a few remarks on this
important question. I think it the most important which has been
brought before us. I say, brother Co-operators, pause before you pass
this Resolution. Great things are expected from you. From you are
expected laws which shall release mankind from thraldom, both mental
and physical. Much as we may esteem the men named by Mr. Thomp-
son-much as we may admire their great zeal, yet, in the great question
g
of private judgment, we call no man master. Almost all I know of Co-
operation must be ascribed to two of the individuals to my right-hand
(Messrs. Owen and Thompson) and if one of those individuals were not
present, I should pass an encomium on " The Essay on the Distri-
bution of Wealth"-a work as far superior to Smith's "Wealth of Na-
tions" as one book can be from another. (Immense applause.) But I
am aware that in the writings of Mr. Thompson, as well as those of Mr.
Owen and of Mr. Morgan, there are opinions which we do not hold in
common, and if they do not give offence to our brethren, they do to the
rest of mankind, who will be glad by any means to strike us down.
Therefore I put it to you, whether we are not an assembly of men capable
of giving instructions to our Missionaries without referring to the opi-
nions of any individual. Let us, therefore, without delay, form these
instructions. Many of our Society's laws are (as Mr. Thompson ob-
serves), at variance with each other; for instance, the absurd laws of
dividing, and others among Societies not favourable to community. I
would have it go forth to the world what are the opinions, not of Mr.
Owen or any other person, but of the Co-operative Congress. Bright
indeed are the prospects of the Co-operator; let him but unite and en-
lighten his mind, and nothing can prevent him from obtaining the whole
reward of his labours. I suggest, that the Committee be requested to
draw up a body of doctrines explanatory of the principles and practice of
the Co-operative system for the use of the Missionaries.
Mr. PARE thought the Missionaries must take their own course till
the next meeting of Congress, by which time the Committee could draw
out instructions for the missionaries.
Mr. MANDLEY suggested that Messrs. Marriott and Dunn be added
to the Committee, to assist in drawing instructions for the Mission-
aries.
Mr. MARRIOTT.—I feel great pleasure in my name being joined with
those of the eminent men already named, but I object to the principle
of our taking the writings of any man as our text-book, as we come for-
ward to support certain principles which we think for the good of the
human race, and not the particular opinions of any individual.
Mr. WARDEN.-We may disclaim all idea of calling any man
master in Co-operation, but it is only shifting the difficulty. If we can-
not adopt the principles held in commou by the worthy men who have
been named, and take instead the opinions of three or four others, we
only shift the difliculty, and perhaps shall gain no advantage.
Mr. BEATTY.-No person appreciates the opinions of Mr. Owen
and Mr. Thompson more than I do; but I think if the Missionaries are
tied to their opinions it will injure our cause. The Missionary may take
their books with him, but not be compelled to treat of them further than
he may chose to do so by the way of recommendation. The political
economy of their works is the main thing. (Hear.) The religion of
Co-operation, if true, will follow.
Mr. OWEN.—What we have to show to the world is, first, how they
can best produce and distribute wealth; and, secondly, how they can
best form good characters. In these two points we need not interfere
with the theological doctrines of any human being. It will, perhaps, be
advisable for the Committee to draw up directions, and as all men are
fallible, especially on a subject so important, it will be well to have those
directions reviewed at the next Congress.
Mr. HIRST.—I have seriously considered this subject, and think it
one of paramount importance to the Co-operative world. I think the
Missionary's path is plain before him; he has nothing to do with the
theological opinions of any man, except that whatever he finds pleasant
in them, and whatever he can make useful in his taking his fellow-men
by the hand and leading them from out of the misery in which they are
involved, it is his business to seize. I have been reproached with taking
10
up the Co-operative system with such men as Mr. Owen at its head, but
this is my greatest glory. (Hear.) I have been called an infidel, but if
Co-operation is infidelity, I don't believe there is such a thing as infidelity
in the world.. (A laugh.) I was glad to hear lately from Mr Lemmon,
that at Ralahine they have Catholics and Protestants having separate
places of worship from which they both return arın-in-arm to the commu
nity. (Hear) I firmly believe that no subject was ever introduced
which can so safely, speedily, and effectually release man from his
degraded condition. The Societies are absolutely lost for want of know-
ledge; many are completely ignorant of our principles, and a code of
laws is wanted for the guidance of the Societies generally.
Mr. OWEN read an extract from the introduction to "Proceedings at
New Lanark," pp. 17, 18.
Mr. THOMPSON moved, and Mr. MARSHALL seconded, the 12th
Resolution, which was unanimously agreed to, and a liberal subscription
was immediately set on foot.
The Congress then adjourned (at 11 o'clock on Tuesday night) till
next day.
11
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5th,
SECOND DAY.
THE delegates, after breakfasting together, assembled at eight o'clock.
COMMUNITY.
The business commenced by Mr. Owen urging the practicability of
the community system. The only reason we did not obtain all the real
advantages of a community was, that the public mind was not suf
ficiently prepared. The chief end of the community is to make the
members better calculated for their different positions in society.
You
have none of the inconveniences of any of the universities, and you
have all the advantages of obtaining knowledge in the most improved
way for each individual; and I shall be much surprised if, in one year,
more real knowledge is not obtained in a community than can be in
several in a college.
Another great advantage will be the economy. For instance-in a
community there are no streets; you will have around you 2000 acres
of land, which would be a source of health and employment; and our
own industry will enable us to be for ever independent of the whole
world.
But it may be said it would require an enormous outfit; so far, how-
ever, from this being the case, that the apartments would not cost per
square foot more than the commonest cabin in Ireland, the arrangements
are so economical as to pay the whole rent of the building by the saving
alone of capital and labour in its arrangement; now those who have
least capital are obliged to employ it to the greatest possible disadvau-
tage. We have now before us a plan for improving society, which
has hitherto been only understood by a few individuals, and can only be
understood by those who understand the science of human nature; but
this is so simple that a child of eight years of age, well educated, may
understand it. I speak this from experience. We are now, I think, in
a position to command it from the hands of Government; and why?
because they do not know how to relieve the community from a state
of wretchedness and poverty, and we will show them the means of
creating a Paradise. (Loud applause.)
Mr. WARDEN. I am so warmly persuaded that we have it in our
power to do so,-that the working classes have it in their power; and I
have done so much, while ignorant of the system, to oppose
its progress,
that I ain desirous to do all I can to make reparation. There are a
great number of individuals not only having the knowledge, but also
means of effecting this, if they could be brought into contact.
Mr. TRENCH. My friends, on you depends whether Ireland and
England shall have justice done or not, by pouring in petitions from
all parts of the country. I am not so sanguine as Mr. OwEN; I dont
think the Government have any idea of doing good for Ireland.
Mr. OWEN. You were not one of the delegates to Government?
Mr. TRENCH. No, but that is my opinion.
Mr. BEATTY. In February last, the first Belfast society got up
a petition, the subject of which was community of property. This
was got up by the working people themselves, and duly signed; and I
wish to know where to send the petition.
12
Mr. OWEN. What is the reason why so many thousands of the
Irish peasantry died of starvation last winter? and why is it so many
live in the fear of poverty, which is worse than poverty itself? Because
the legislature do not understand our proceedings. I have been four
times before the Parliament, simply to ask for a committee to investi-
gate our principles; but the time is now come when they no longer can
refuse to investigate it, and if ever the subject is openly discussed in the
House of Commons, no power on earth can prevent it spreading over
the kingdom. I have, therefore, drawn up a petition to the Parlia
ment, praying them fully and fairly to discuss the subject. Let that
once be done, and our difficulties are at an end.
The petition was then read as follows, and being adopted, was signed
by all the delegates present.
The Petition of the undersigned Members of the "GENERAL CO-OPERA-
TIVE CONGRESS," composed of Delegates from Co-operative So-
cieties in Great Britain and Ireland assembled at Birmingham, this
5th day of October, 1831,
Humbly Showeth,
That your petitioners have been compelled to feel the hopelessness of longer
contending against the competition which the extraordinary increase of ma
chinery now makes to their labour, rendering the latter, in the contest, of
less value than the amount of the most ordinary assistance.
That your petitioners are convinced that their labour cannot again be made
sufficient to procure permanent support in tolerable comfort for the working
classes, under the system of competition between machinery and manual
labour.
That this alarming change in the condition of the producing class has in-
duced your petitioners to investigate all the various schemes that have been
proposed by different parties, in and out of Parliament, for their relief; and
they have been obliged to come to the conclusion that the general plan advo-
cated by the Co-operative Societies offers the only permanent effectual relief
for their daily increasing distress.
That your petitioners believe the public are entirely ignorant, or grossly
misinformed, respecting the principles on which these societies are intended
to be established, in their matured and perfect form.
That your petitioners are well assured that when these principles shall be
known to your honourable House, your honourable House will approve of
them as offering the speediest, safest, and most effectual mode by which the
working classes can be relieved from their difficulties, without inconvenience,
mediate or remote, to the higher classes; but, on the contrary, with great ad-
vantage to every class in society.
That your petitioners, therefore, pray that your honourable House will
adopt such measures as will enable your Ironourable House effectually to in-
vestigate this subject; and if it should be found to possess the advantages
which your petitioners believe it possesses, that your honourable House will
devise means to enable its projectors and promoters to carry it into extensive
and immediate execution.
And your petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever pray.
WHOLESALE ESTABLISHMENT.
The report respecting the wholesale purchasing was then brought up,
from which it appeared that £644. 19s. could be expended weekly at
Liverpool by the societies represented; that £944. could be advanced by
them towards its establishment, principally by instalments, as shown in
the statistical Table published with this report; and that £484. was now
ready to be paid down.
A long desultory conversation on this report took place; in the course
of which the delegates generally expressed their great desire for the
wholesale warehouse being opened; also their regret at the angry alter-
eation which had taken place between Messrs. CARSON and FINCH; and
new Trustees were appointed.
Mr. BUCKLEY considered himself ineligible as a Trustee; as lic
should be unable to devote sufficient time to the business, and could not
give security if it should be required.
13
Mr. OWEN said he would give some advice respecting the science of
money making. He became a great capitalist from the small sum of
£2. through his fully understanding the science. He recommended the
Trustees to make arrangements with some house of extensive business,
and he believed they would be able to obtain their goods at half the
usual expence, and without risk.
After some further discussion the resolution (to commence trading)
was agreed to.
INCIPIENT COMMUNITY.
Mr. WARDEN proposed the fifth resolution. He felt an inward
consciousness of the practicability of forming a community. It was his
only aim. He had no other expectations for his old age than to be sent
to a workhouse without a community were established. The four so-
cieties which he represented expected him to do his duty on this sub-
ject zealously, and would not be satisfied with his spending their money,
in coming to the Congress, if he could not show them on his return
some good which had resulted from his journey. He felt it an honour to
be appointed on this committee. He thought there would be no diffi-
culty in finding fit members for a community; for he had always found
that if we treat others with kindness, they will treat us in the same
manner. Among Co-operators he always finds himself at home, and
would most gladly spend his whole time in Co-operation. It is in fact
his Alpha and Omega, his first and last.
Mr. MARRIOTT seconded the motion.
Mr. PARE regretted that business of an urgent nature would
prevent him from assisting further in the deliberations of Congress.
He advocated the formation of an Incipient Community, but
thought more information was wanted on the subject. The causes of
the failure of the plan at several places must be looked to-such as
Orbiston-and satisfactorily explained to the public by the Com-
mittee.
Mr. REYNOLDS also urged the formation of a Community without
delay. Many Members had withdrawn from the Societies, in despair
of ever reaching a Community.
Mr. HIRST thinks if our feelings and judgments were concentrated
to one point at a time, we should the sooner get to Community. But
some Societies begin building at the top, instead of the bottom; and
the natural consequence is, that they work downwards. We have
ascended one step of the co-operative ladder, and reached the second;
and if we persevere, success is certain.
Mr. RABONE believed that Community is now the chief aim of all
Co-operative Societies. It has been a long time their opinion, that the
time is come when the thing should be tried, and we must not delay.
The Committee must act with unity and diligence, or the Societies
would not be satisfied with them. (Hear.)
Mr. WARDEN said they would; and he thought, if they were
active, they might almost get into Community before the next Congress.
(Cheers.)
Mr. GILL asked how a minority in any Society, willing to join in
the proposed Community, should proceed, if there were an unwilling
majority?
Mr. T. COOK. Let them educate them-show Community in its
truc colours, and they will embrace it. He believed, by this means,
the great majority of the First Birmingham Society were become willing
to sell all they had, to send as many Members as possible to a Commu-
uity. The establishment of one Cominunity would do more good than
a hundred thousand grocers' shops. It would make the middle classes
friendly to us; while the trading makes them oppose us, because we
enter into competition with their means of living. I say to every
Society, sell your property, and g) into Community.
B
14
Mr. THOMPSON Mr GILL has put a most important question.
I, as one individual having £30. to spare, will, for one Member of such
a minority, on his being certified to be a deserving man, pay a share for
him. (Hear, hear.) Let each of us endeavour to induce our rich
friends, to give or lend one or more £30. to needy individuals, whether
of a minority or majority.
Mr. BEATTY. I would propose, that in each large town there
should be an Enlightening Society, as well as a Trading Society, and
let them raise a capital, for the purpose of assisting such Co-operators
as those alluded to.
Mr. SKENE. I am sure the gentleman (Mr. Cook) does not con-
demn Trading Societies; for they were the only means of gaining over
the working classes to Co-operation. We must use every means we
have left. I am quite satisfied the time has arrived for the formation of
a Community (I mean the necessity for it), but I am not sure we
have the materials for one. I know several individuals in London,
ready to come forward immediately to form a Community, who have
had much experience in the matter, who have been to Orbiston and
Exeter. I trust, whatever propositions may be agreed to by the Com-
mittee, will be after very mature deliberation-that they will first
satisfy themselves as to the causes of the failures, or partial failures, at
Orbiston, Exeter, and New Harmony, and the causes which have kept
together the existing Communities in America. A library of books
should be attached to the Committee, and the means of communication
among them established, or we shall not do that which will guarantee
success.
Mr. OWEN. Such Communities as I have recommended, have
never yet been in existence-have never been attempted-and therefore
have never failed. I will take on me to say, that no individual has yet
seen any approach to the Communities I have proposed from the begin-
ning-when such Communities shall be formed they will succeed. I
was directly opposed to Orbiston, because I saw that the arrangements
were not according to the circumstances which would ensure success.
It is as necessary that individuals should be trained for a Community,
as it is necessary they should be trained for any trade; and this can
only be done by proper arrangements for the purpose. These are-the
due proportion of labour applied to production, distribution, education,
and police. There is as certainly a science of society as there is of
mathematics. All society-every nation-is composed of four distinct
parts of producing, of distributing, of forming the national character,
and of the police or government of the country. I have sought far and
wide for an individual who understands society, but without success.
In the department of production, there is no individual who understands
it. With one per cent. on the capital and labour employed on it, I
will undertake to provide much better for all parties, or with one per
cent. of the capital and labour employed in its distribution. Well may
we say "We have done those things which we ought not to have done,
and left undone those things which we ought to have done." With
regard to Government, every thing has been done to prevent that, which
it is the first duty of every Government to accomplish, viz. the best
mode of distribution. Its second duty is, to arrange means by which
every child shall have all his physical and moral powers developed in
the best manner, and so directed, as to render him a useful and
happy member of society; but look around you, and see if it could be
more the reverse. All Governments have thought their duty was only
to divide and conquer. We do not blame them for this; but we should
adopt such measures, as shall compel the Government to do good both
to us and to themselves. We can introduce measures which shall be
ere to make the rising generation infinitely superior to the present.
Every human being is a compound of the external circumstances which
Map
15
AND
surround him, and these have been jumbled together without any plan.
I have watched, for more than 20 years, for an opportunity to create a
public opinion, which would enable me to state this science with success.
THE TIME IS NOW ARRIVED TO COMPEL GOVERNMENT TO BELIEVE,
THAT WE DO KNOW HOW POVERTY SHALL BE PUT AN END TO,
HOW EVERY CHILD, IN FUTURE, SHALL BE MADe a good, a virtuous,
AND A CHARITABLE BEING. Let us not, then, waste much more of
our time in these little details; but let the Committee go straight
forward to their object, and bring forward a well-digested plan, on
which a Community may immediately afterwards be formed, with a
certainty of success.
The Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT. The formation of a Co-operative Com-
munity is a subject to which I have paid great attention during the
last ten years, and I am more and more convinced it is practicable.
My first conversion arose from my belief in the doctrine of necessity—
the doctrine, that, as we form good or bad circumstances, we shall form
good or bad men. The Press is a great organ-Education is a great
organ; but men have been more actuated by certain forms of Govern-
ment, and ideas instilled by the laws of the land, than by either of
these. Men belong to a certain class of politics or religion, because
their fathers were so before them, or because they are the general
opinions of the land in which they live. I have been delighted with
the admirable observations on this point, in Mr. THOMPSON's “Essay
on Wealth." I have drawn up a work, which I may publish at no
distant day, showing the little effect produced by public exhortations
on minds, whose opinions have been previously formed on the subject;
for although, for a time, they may admit the propriety of the Lecturer's
remarks, the effects produced are as evanescent as the sun-beams on a
stone. To a certain extent, we must look to children to form our Com-
munities; but are there not men around us, of a deliberate judgment,
who have changed their opinions, and who are eminently qualified to
become Members of a Community? I am sure there are inen prepared,
and the first business of the Committee should be to find them out. I
propose the fifteenth resolution.
The resolution being seconded, was carried unanimously.
Mr. SKEVINGTON being about to leave the Meeting, strongly
suggested the propriety of the next Meeting of Congress being held at
Loughborough.
WHOLESALE AGENT.
Mr. BUCKLEY moved and Mr. SKEVINGTON seconded the
appointment of Mr. JOHN HEATON as Agent, at Liverpool. Agreed to.
NEWSPAPERS.
Mr. BUCKLEY recommended, that if it should be determined we
should be connected with any Newspaper, it should be the Voice of
the People.
Mr. OATES said, that both the Co-operators and the original pro-
moters of the Voice of the People, had felt its benefits. They had not
found warmer or stauncher friends than the Co-operators, who were
the props of the associations they had established throughout the
country. It was the wish of the National Association, that the Co-
operators should have a direct and bona fide interest in the Paper. He
therefore hoped, as it was about to be published in London, that it
would be favourably received by the Congress. Mr. O. stated his
opinion, which he illustrated at some length, that it was practicable to
unite all Trade, Benefit, and Co-operative Societies, and Political
Unions, in one great cause, and as one Society, having Committees
specially devoted to each department.
Mr. HIRST showed the difference between Fenefit and Trade
Societies, and Political Unions, and the Co operative Societies, and that
BZ
16
the latter embraced all the objects of the former. One grand fault was,
that the monies subscribed by the labouring classes were not well hus-
banded; but while a Benefit or Trade Society was gaining £3. or £4.
a Co-operative Society would accumulate a capital of £200. and obtain
an increase to it of £150. He would encourage the Voice of the People.
It had been an organ of vast good; and the Editor was a straightforward
man, who feared nobody, and whose object was the redemption of his
country. The Free Press and Carpenter's Letter were as lights in their
path. It was true, the odious Six Acts had now and then put out the
light; but, thank God, it was re-appearing. The Midland Represen-
tative was also a most useful and excellent Newspaper; and they had,
at Huddersfield, taken every means to get their Members to read it;
and it was so well approved, and was so strong a friend to the workman,
and so able an advocate for Co-operation, that their Members could
prevail on their fellow-workmen to stay at home and read the paper,
instead of going to the public-house. (Hear.)
Mr. WARDEN showed that no Paper could succeed in London, as a
Working Man's l'aper, unless it were Co-operative.
Mr. HIRST suggested to the Conductors of these Newspapers, that
they should bring out a plan, such as was adopted at Huddersfield, to
amalgamate the Political Unions and Co-operative Societies, so that they
might both pull together.
Mr. G. SKENE and Mr. THOMPSON, in moving and seconding
the 17th resolution, strongly recommended the two Newspapers.
Mr. HIRST moved the 18th resolution, which was seconded, and
carried unanimously.
Mr. OWEN then rose to take his leave of the Congress, and, in a
most impressively benevolent manner, said-May the spirit of Co-
operation now abide with you, and remain with you evermore. You
will then know that you have no right to be angry with your fellow-
creatures, because they differ from you in colour, opinions, or other
circumstances; but you will be filled with pure charity towards every
human being, and act towards them only with kindness; and with this
spirit among us, our difficulties, in forming a Community, will soon be
at an end. Trusting you
Trusting you will not separate till you have gone through
all the business before you, and that we may all meet again with brighter
prospects at our next Congress, I now bid you farewell.
Mr. Owen, with Mr. TRENCH and several other Members, then
retired, with the most respectful gratulations of the whole Congress.
Mr. HIRST was immediately appointed to take the Chair.
Mr. SMITH proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. OWEN, which wàs
objected to by Messrs. WARDEN, THOMPSON, POWELL, and others, on
the score of its formality and uselessness. It was, therefore, not put;
but (as Mr. THOMPSON remarked) passed without the ceremony of
voting.
Mr. SMITH moved and Mr. POWELL seconded the 10th reso-
lution.
SCHOOLS.
Mr. G. SKENE then rose to introduce a series of resolutions,
respecting the establishment of Schools for the children of Co-operators.
He said, the most useful thing they could do for society, was to secure
a good education for the rising generation. As it had been in all other
troubled times, the education of the young was neglected. Mr. S.
referred to some letters, with the initials G. R. S. in the last numbers
of Carpenter's stamped Political Letter-in which he had shown the
advantages of Co-operative Societics establishing Schools, which should,
as much as possible, pay their own expenses; the practicability of
which he had witnessed at Lewes, where there was a School founded
by his brother (Mr. PHILIP (). SKENE) and a few other benevolent
individuals. Mr. S. here gave some very interesting details respecting
B 3
17
this School, and continued-We have had great improvements in the
art of teaching every thing; and it is a crying shame that the improved
plans had not been introduced into any school in the kingdom. For
instance-it had been proved, by Mr. WILLIAMSON, of Carlisle, that
as much algebra could be taught in nine lessons, as was usually taught
in as many months-and so with other branches of knowledge. The
Societies would also find the Schoolmaster to be very useful as a Secre-
tary, which would remove what has been a great obstacle in many
Societies. Mr. SKENE also instanced the Printers' School, in White-
chapel, which had not cost a farthing-at which the children remained
from 9 till 14 years of age, obtained an excellent education, and learnt
the trade of a printer in addition.
The Meeting was adjourned before Mr. SKENE had completed his
remarks, in order to be present at a public Tea Party, which was held
at Vauxhall Tavern, this (Wednesday) evening. On reaching Vauxhall,
we found the large room filled with the Delegates, and the Members of
the First Birmingham Society, accompanied by their wives and friends;
after taking tea.
Mr. OWEN rose, and said-We are met here in the cause of Co-
operation-by which we mean, the union of individuals, for the purpose
of putting out all misery from the world. We have really discovered
the science, by which we can remove from out of society all poverty,
and banish from the mind the fear of poverty-which is worse than
poverty itself, and by which you can give to your children a character su-
perior to that given to man at any former period. It is like what Lycurgus
did with respect to war. He created the best warlike character; but we
want to create one full of kindness, and to increase the happiness of all
who are around us, and not to destroy human beings, or the property
by which they are surrounded. By means of this character, we shall
go on in improvement without limit. I sincerely desire you, with all
speed, to bring this state of things into effect.
Mr. OWEN then took his leave of every person present, in the most
affectionate manner.
At the request of the Meeting, Mr. JOHN PARE, President of the
First Birmingham Society, took the Chair.
Mr. WARDEN said-I never meet with an assembly of my fellow-
beings, but I wish to communicate to them the principles whence I
derive pleasure; for I suppose they will derive from them the same
feelings. You may suppose it singular that Trading Associations are
used as the means of making us happy; for, if so, the rich would be
happy. True, my friends, but they have not the knowledge to apply
their means to the best advantage. I rejoice to see so many females
present, for in Co-operation they have every thing to gain. Now their
rights lie dormant in society. They are not recognized as human
beings, except in a company of Co-operators; and how can we become
rational, until those who have the care of our early years are rational?
Mr. W. sat down amidst loud applause.
Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT and Mr. HIRST, delivered cach a most in-
teresting address, of which we regret the limits of this pamphlet will not
allow a report.
Mr. JOHN POWELL, of the first Birmingham Society, then stated
that he had been a Member of Co-operative Societics for eight or nine
years, and although the Society to which he had first joined himself,
(The Red Lion-square Society) had been broken up, he was delighted to
find Societies had been established in all parts of the kingdom, principally
through the Members of that Society having been scattered over the
country. He considered that the happiest day of his life, to find Co-
operation had grown to so gigantic a strength as to hold Congresses, and
at such Congresses, those who had been Co-operators in the dark days
of the system, when their prospects were cheerless, could now congratulate
each other on their perseverance.
18
Mr. O'BRIEN, Editor of the Midland Representative, next addressed
the assembly. He began by declaring his surprise that his friend Mr.
Powell should express an anxiety to hear his (Mr. O'B's.) opinions on
Co-operation, as these opinions must be already well known to him.
I have been, said Mr. O'Brien, early in life a Co-operator. The more I
have reflected on human nature, and the means of human happiness, the
more firmly are my feelings and judgment rivetted in favour of the
system. So strong is my prepossession on the side of Co-operation, that
I may well say, "It grows with my growth, and strengthens with my
strength." I have heard of many schemes for the improvement of man's
condition, I have heard of thousands of plans-of project upon project,
for the relief of the working classes, but never have I yet heard of any
scheme that could (even if most successfully applied) produce for them
other than transient and superficial advantages. The evils of mankind
lie much deeper than is generally supposed, and, therefore, require reme-
dies not easily conceived by shallow minds. They are not to be traced
to bad government alone, as is vulgarly imagined-they spring from the
present unnatural constitution of society; and for this reason, it appears
to me that a Reform of Parliament can effect little good, except in so
far as it may conduce to a reform in the construction of society. I am
aware that great results are anticipated from Reform-I know the great
body of the people imagine, that ONLY a full representation in the legis
lature is wanted, to ensure to every industrious man an abundance of
the good things and enjoyments of life. I know this to be the general
impression; but I altogether deny that such can be the effects of Par-
liamentary Reform.-If the most sanguine Reformers are asked, in what
way will the condition of the people be benefited-if questioned as to
the anticipated advantages of Reform, their reply is, that it will lead to
a reduction of taxes and tithes-that it will diminish our public burdens,
and promote generally a spirit of economy in the Government. This is
the length and breadth of all we are promised from Reform! Now,
gentlemen, suppose that these effects follow from Reform pushed to its
utmost extent-even to a liquidation of the national debt-the disband-
ing of all our soldiers and sailors, and the complete breaking up of all
our establishments civil, military, naval, and ecclesiastical, as far as they
are maintained at the public cost,-suppose all this, I say, were not
only practicable (which it is not) but actually accomplished to-morrow-
what, I ask, would be the amount of good produced? I am prepared
to show it would be little or nothing to the aggregate of society-that it
would, in fact, generate as much if not more misery and wretchedness,
one way, than it would cure in another-that it would, in short, only
shift our position-only transfer misery from one portion of society to
another less able to bear it. For instance, the interest of the national
debt yields about £28,000,000. annually. Now, who are the parties that
subsist upon this property?
property? Why, for the most part, those who have no
other means of existence !-widows, orphans, old maids, and superannu-
ated persons, who have invested the scrapings and hard-earnings of
years in this form of income. From a Parliamentary paper of last year
it appears, there are in all upwards of 274,000 national creditors. Of
these there were not then more than from eight to ten thousand whose
half-yearly dividends exceeded £200. Nineteen-twentieths of the whole
received only from £10. to £100 as their share. Now these being the
description of persons I have just mentioned, what would become of
them if a Reformed Parliament were to sponge the national debt? From
official returns in 1829, it appears that there were then lodged in the
funds £17,000,000. belonging to about half a million of contributors to
Savings Banks, being the amount of their deposits. Again, there are
probably upwards of £40,000,000. the property of Members of Friendly
Societies, vested in the same way. I need not say that such persons
belong to the poorer classes-you must know they do, and that a blowing
ap of the debt would be fatal to them. Only think for a moment of the
Į
19
destitution that such an event would cause among the thousands and
tens of thousands who have vested their property in the Funds, on account
of Benefit Societies, Savings Banks, charitable uses, mutual assurance
against misfortune, &c. &c. Such an event, gentlemen, would, on the
score of humanity, be truly frightful; and even on that of policy, as a
source of relief to the productive classes, it would be unavailing, for
those who should cease to live on the taxes would be compelled to live
on the parish, and thus the same results produced as at present-only
in a less equitable way. The same reasoning will apply, with little
variation, to all who live on the remainder of the taxes-such as soldiers,
sailors, revenue-men, treasury clerks, and government agents of all kinds,
These persons have been trained to no wealth-producing pursuits, and
therefore would, in all probability if thrown upon the world, be either
ruined themselves, or prove instruments of ruin to others. It would be
no reply to tell me that such persons should then be compelled to incor-
porate with the productive classes, and so increase as well as consume
the nation's wealth. That such an argument may have weight, it must
first be shown, that those who already constitute the productive classes,
have abundant employment, and this, too, at remunerating wages. But
you know too well that this is not the case. Let me not be misunder-
stood, gentlemen, do not suppose that I am the advocate of standing
armies and exhorbitant taxation. Far from it! the reverse is, perhaps, too
much_my political creed. On a principle of justice to the working mil-
lions I, for one, can never consent that any Parliament, much less
a profligate borough Parliament, has a right to tax the people without
their consent, nor will I ever admit that the millions lie under any moral
obligation to discharge debts which they not only never contracted, but
which were incurred for the avowed purpose of extinguishing liberty at
home and abroad. I will never subscribe to the doctrine that any legis-
lature, much less a self-convicted corrupt one, has the power of mort-
gaging the industry and property of generations unborn; and, therefore,
I hold every man to be a fool, a knave, or a coward, who does not resist.
such taxation by every means which the law allows. But at the same
time that justice to ourselves demands that we should not support the
fundholder and the tax-eater, mercy to them requires that we compensate
them for their loss in the best manner we can. Co-operation alone can
effect this. Co-operation is the only scheme which promises to build
up, as well as to throw down, to create wealth for those who have not,
without spoliating those who have. By Co-operation every man able
and willing to work will be always sure of abundance, for then there will
be no limit to the production of wealth, besides the wants and capabilities
of the community. How different from this is the present system of com-
petition? Colquhoun, a magistrate of London, calculated, in 1812, that
every working family in England produced then, at an average, wealth
to the value of about £260. a year, and that of this they were
were permitted by existing institutions to retain less than a fifth part
for their own enjoyment. Since that time the productive powers of the
community have been prodigiously increased. By recent improvements
in chemical and mechanical science, we could now produce (if free to do
so) seven or eight times more wealth of every description than as rational
beings we would need to consume. Observe, then, the injustice done to
the working classes. They are, in the first instance, robbed by competi-
tion of at least four-fifths of their earnings; and, in the next place, dis-
abled from producing necessaries for themselves after creating all man-
ner of luxuries for others. Their labour is held in servile subjection by
a tyrant called CAPITAL, who suspends as well as expands production at
pleasure. This tyrant virtually tells the millions they may eat or drink,
live or die, be prosperous or miserable, just as he likes. There is no es-
caping from this tyrant Capital: he is an essential element in every
work of enterprise. No matter what may be a man's abilities, or indus-
20
not
try, whether intellectual or mechanical, he can do nothing without the
capitalist! The consequence is, the bulk of mankind are slaves-abject
slaves-ycs, disguise it as we may, so long as we depend for
our existence on the capital of others, we are abject slaves.-
When the capitalist finds the market glutted, his warehouses full, and
himself no longer able to bear stock, he is compelled by competition to
turn away his workmen, or reduce their wages to the starving point.
The question with him is never, whether any portion of Society does or
does not want the articles he manufactures, but whether or not, they
will yield him a remunerating profit. What a frightful prospect is this.
for the unfortunate workman! With every ability and disposition to
work, he must withal rest his hopes of existence on sordid speculations
of individuals called capitalists! When the capitalist wants him, he
keeps him at hard work twelve or fourteen hours a day, for just as much
as keeps him alive and able to resume his work next day, and when the
speculator's convenience no longer requires it, he sends the wretch
away, telling him to go and starve for a fortnight or so. Can this
be called a rational form of Society? Ought human life to be
thus one continued gambling speculation? On the contrary, ought
every human being to enjoy an abundance of all that is good for
man's enjoyment, provided he be able and willing to produce it?
Coin-
mon sense-common justice-common humanity-say yes. Are they
not then tyrannical institutions, which first rob a man of what he does
produce, and subsequently disable him from producing more? Remem-
ber, gentlemen, it makes no difference to the party spoliated how the
thing is done, if the effect be the same. It is of no consequence whe-
ther I am robbed in violation of law, or according to law, if in the end I
am robbed. Of the two, it were better for me to be robbed against law,
for in that case, I should have some redress in the law, but when the
law is itself made the instrument of robbing me I can have no redress,
except in such Reform as will give me my share of power over the law.
If it be true that working Englishmen are now deprived by existing in-
stitutions of four-fifths of their earnings, and if it be equally true that
they have had no share or consent in the formation of such institutions,
it follows that they are as effectually robbed in this way, as they could
be by a highway robber. Every man who now subsists by profits on
other men's labour, and who would not be required for the distribution
of wealth in a rational state of Society, is to all intents and purposes a
lax-eater. In this sense, the productive classes are tax-payers, not to
the amount of 40 or 50 millions as is vulgularly thought, but to the
amount of several hundred millions a year! What then is their remedy
for these evils. My opinion is, Co-OPERATION. By Co-operation they
can do collectively, what, it is impossible for them to do individually.
They can become capitalists, and thus intercept the profits of trade in
addition to the wages of labour. By a Union of capital and labour
amongst themselves, they can strangle usury, prevent individual accu-
unulation, and secure permanent independence for all. Without capital
of their own they must continue slaves, and liable to be as effectually
stripped of the produce of their toil, as if they lived in a country with-
out law or government. The law will but protect them as individuals
from one another, (where they require no assistance from it,) but there is
no protection for them as a class, to save them from being the prey of
all the other classes. The legislature excludes them from all share in
the government on the ground that they are too ignorant to vote
wisely, and too poor to vote independently, whilst at the same time it
takes especial care to keep thein both poor and ignorant. Our rulers
thus take “advantage of their own wrong," and make that an excuse for
the people's continued degradation, which they have themselves, in the
first instance caused. The clergy too tell us that we are born to God's
image, that our minds constitute the resemblance which we bear to our
ܝ.
21
maker, and at the same time they kindly endeavour to crush all liberty
of thought, and thus blot out the only part of our nature that makes us
resemble God! Between Church and State, they contrive to make use-
ful machines of us, letting us use our feet freely, because with them we
dig and delve for them-our hands, because with them we work, but not
our minds, because these we could not exercise freely without reap-
ing the benefit ourselves. (Loud cheers.) Mr. O'Brien concluded an
able and luminous address, which was interrupted with frequent ap-
plause, by assuring his audience that the sacred and benevolent cause
of Co-operation should ever command his strenuous services. (Cheers.)
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6th.
THIRD DAY.
THE delegates, after breakfasting together, assembled at the meeting
room of the first Birmingham society.
Mr. THOMPSON was called to the chair at nine o'clock, and a re-
view was taken of the business which had been transacted.
A long conversation took place as to the appointment of Missionaries,
in the course of which Messrs. Hirst, Warden, Skene, Pare, Carson, Mar-
riott, Powell, and others were spoken of as fit persons.
SCHOOLS.
Mr. SKENE continued his observations from yesterday, and trusted
the delegates would state to their societies the importance which had
been attached by the Congress to the raising schools on improved prin-
ciples. School books, in general, instil vice rather than virtue. Chil-
dren are led to commit crimes from hearing of such crimes having been
committed. He showed the necessity of infusing a love of knowledge,
with which Co-operation would increase. Ignorance fostered ignorance.
A child's enquiries were often baffled by the parents' ignorance, and de-
ception was resorted to. The child was told it was something not
proper for him to know; but children, in general, will not be satisfied
with this evasion, and they bear it in mind till they find some explana-
tion or other, and they generally get a wrong idea, and thus ignorance is
perpetuated. Mr. S. made a great number of other excellent remarks
on the subject of education.
Mr. AUSTIN thought it necessary schools should be established, so
that Co-operators might know what their children were being taught.
The present system was so drilled into the minds of children, that they
were almost deprived of the power of emancipating themselves. They
should not be taught by being told they must do such and such things,
but they should be led gently on, step by step, as gymnastic exercises
were taught. The parents will find it of great importance, also, that
their conduct should accord with the principles of the competitive sys-
tem, and to this end it is extremely desirable that the Co-operators
should as soon as possible be cinployed for their own benefit alone.
Mr. WARDEN trusted that female education should, if possible, re-
ceive greater attention than that of males.
Mr. MARRIOTT said a few words as to religious education.
Mr. GILL said the Kendal society were waiting his return to com-
mence a school.
Mr. STYLES and Mr. BEATTY supported the formation of Co-
operative Schools.
22
I
A long discussion then took place as to defraying the expenses of
Congress, and the place and time of holding next Congress, and at length
the 21st, 22nd, and 23rd Resolutions were adopted.
A meeting of the Committce took place after the Congress had broken
up, at which a Sub-Committee was appointed, to draw up proposals for
the formation of a Community. It was also resolved to advertise the
principal Resolutions of the Congress in the Midland Representative.
Several Members of the Congress immediately evinced their sincerity,
in the Missionary cause. Messrs. Warden and Smith proceeded from
Birmingham to Worcester, where a large public meeting took place;
and Messrs. Beatty and Milnes, with Mr. John Powell, Mr. Lowe, and
others of the first Birmingham Society, held on Friday night a public
meeting at Walsall, ably assisted by the Members of the Walsall Co-
operative Society.
RESOLUTIONS.
The Minutes of the last Congress having been read,
Resolved,
1. That the same be confirmed.
2. That the 6th Resolution of the last Congress be rescinded, and
that the following gentlemen be appointed Trustees until the next Con-
gress, viz. :-
M
Mr. Thomas Hirst
William Thompson
John Finch
William Pare
John Dixon
Joseph Smith
Francis S. Beatty
George Gaskill
William Carson
Thomas Wilson
George Mandley
John Skevington
John Buckley
Rev. Joseph Marriott
Mr. James Cox
K
Huddersfield
Cork
Liverpool
Birmingham
Chester
Manchester
Belfast
Kendal
Pemberton
Halifax
Manchester
Loughborough
Leicester
Warrington
Manchester.
Moved by Mr. SAMUEL MILNES, of Pemberton, seconded by Mr.
FRANCIS S. BEATTY, and resolved,
3. That a Committee of Trustees, consisting of Messrs. Carson, Cox,
and Hirst, be appointed to carry into effect the objects of the North
West of England Co-operative Company; that Mr. Carson, of Pem-
berton, near Wigan Lancashire, be appointed Corresponding Secre-
tary; and that every Society be requested to remit the amount of
their Deposits to the " Liverpool and Manchester District Banking
Company, Liverpool," on or before the last day of October instant.
Moved by Mr. BUCKLEY, seconded by Mr. SKEVINGTON,
4. That Mr. John Heaton, of Huddersfield, be appointed Agent to
the North West of England Co-operative Company.
Moved by Mr. WARDEN, of London, seconded by the Rev. Mr.
MARRIOTT, and resolved,
5. That a Committee be appointed to take the necessary steps towards
the immediate formation of a Community, upon the Social System, in
accordance with the 7th and 8th Resolutions of the last Congress; that
the following persons constitute such Committee, viz.:-Messrs. Austin,
Beatty, V. Cook, Campbell, M'Cormac, M. D., Massey Dawson, Do-
herty, Groves, Gardner, Hamilton, Hirst, Marriott, Mandley, R. Owen,
Rabone, Reynolds, G.Skene, Smith, of Manchester, Styles, W. Thomp-
son, Trench, Vandeleur, and B. Warden; and that such Committee be
directed to draw up a Prospectus of the Objects and Nature of a Com-
munity, upon the Social System.
23
Moved by Mr. SMITH, of Manchester, seconded by the Rev. Mr.
MARRIOTT, and resolved unanimously,
6. That this Congress approves of the plan of Missionary exertious
for the dissemination of Co-operative Knowledge, and recommends its
immediate adoption.
Moved by Mr. HARRISTON, of Glasgow, seconded by Mr. SMITH,
and resolved,
7 That a Committee be appointed in London, and Auxiliary Com-
mittees in other towns, to manage the Missionary business.
Moved by Mr. PARE, seconded by Mr. MILNES, of Lamberhead
Green, Lancashire, and resolved,
8. That Messrs. Owen, Warden, Trench, G. Skene, Styles, and M.
Dawson, be appointed a Committee in London, with power to add to
their number, subject to the approval of Congress. Three to form a
quorum.
Moved by Mr. BEATTY, of Belfast, seconded by Mr. MILNES, and
resolved,
9. That the Societies in every Town and Village in the United King-
dom, be earnestly requested by this Congress, forthwith to appoint Aux-
iliary Committees, for the purpose of collecting Subscriptions, for the
support of Co-operative Missions, and otherwise assisting the London
Committee; and to inform the London Committee of such appointment,
within one month, by letter addressed, post-paid, to Robert Owen, Esq.
49, Bedford-square, London.
Moved by Mr. SMITH, seconded by Mr. POWELL, of Birmingham,
and resolved,
10. That Mr. Austin be appointed Treasurer of the Missionary Fund.
Moved by Mr. PARE, seconded by Mr. WARDEN, and resolved,
11. That the London Committee be requested to limit the expences
as closely as possible until the next Congress; and that the Mission-
aries be allowed only the moderate travelling expences incurred on their
Tour.
Moved by Mr. THOMPSON, seconded by Mr. MARSHALL, of Leeds,
and resolved,
12. That the Missionaries be requested to receive Subscriptions, and
endeavour to stimulate the different Societies to subscribe towards their
support.
Moved by Mr. THOMPSON, Seconded by Mr. SMITH, and resolved,
13. That Messrs. Owen, Morgan, Gray, and Thompson, be requested
to present a copy of their respective works to each Missionary;
and that it be an instruetion from this Congress that no Missionary
shall teach any principles inimical to the doctrines contained in the
writings of the before-mentioned persons; and that the Committee be
directed to draw up a code of instructions for the use of the Mission-
aries, and submit the same to the next Congress.
Moved by Mr. THOMPSON, Seconded by Mr. HIRST, and resolved,
14. That the Auxiliary Committees and Co-operative Societies in the
country be recommended to take charge of the Missionaries during their
travels.
Moved by the Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT, seconded by Mr. MILNES, and
resolved,
15. That the Petition now read be adopted by this Congress, and be
presented to hoth Houses of Parliament, praying them to direct their
attention to the subject of theCo-operative System; that the Lord Chan-
cellor be requested to present the Petition to the House of Lords, and
that the Earl of Harewood, Earl Radnor, Dukes of Leinster and Devon-
shire, and Lords King, Cloncurry, and Hereford, be respectfully re-
quested to support its prayer; that D. O'Connell, Esq. be requested
to present the Petition to the House of Commons, and that Messrs.
Hume, Sadler, Slaney, James, E. B. Portman, and Hughes, be re-
quested to support the same.
}
24
L
>
Moved by Mr. BEATTY, Seconded by Mr. STYLES, and resolved,
16. That each Society be requested to present Petitions to Parliament,
in support of the principles contained in the Petition adopted by this
Congress.
*
Moved by Mr. SKENE, seconded by Mr THOMPSON, and resolved,
17. That all Co-operative Societies and Individuals, favourable to
the Co-operative System, be recommended, by this Congress, to support
the Voice of the People Newspaper, about to be established in London,
and also the Midland Representative Birmingham Newspaper; that all
Co-operative Store-keepers be requested to become Agents for the above
Papers, and that Co-operators be recommended to become Shareholders
in their Proprietary.
Moved by Mr. STYLES, seconded by Mr. MILNES, and resolved,
20. That all the Documents, Letters, &c. forwarded to this Con-
gress, be committed to the care of the Missionary Committee in London.
Moved by Mr. MANDLEY, Seconded by Mr. OVERL, and resolved,
21. That the expenses of every future Congress be equally defrayed
by all Societies represented either by delegate or letter, according to the
<
' number of Members composing each Society, in order to equalize the
expense occurred by holding such Congress.
Moved by Mr. SKENE, seconded by Mr. GILL, and resolved.
22. That this Congress congratulates the Societies which have sent
Delegates on their zeal in the cause of Co-operation, and deeply laments
the absence of such zeal which, in some instances, has prevented So-
cieties from sending Delcgates.
1
Moved by Mr. MANDLEY, and seconded by Mr. GILL, and resolved,
23. That the next Congress be held in London, on the 1st Tuesday
in April next.
Moved by Mr. HIRST, and resolved,
18. That the Congress recommend the Societies to give every en-
couragement in their power to" The Lancashire and Yorkshire Co-operator."
Moved by Mr. SKENE, seconded by Mr. AUSTIN, and resolved,
19. That the Societies be urged to establish Schools of Industry, for
the formation of a superior physical, moral, and intellectual character for
the Children of Co-operatives, at the least expense to their Parents;
that the Societies be advised to apply a portion of their Subscriptions
and Profits of Trade, to the maintenance of proper Teachers in the
said Schools; also to open their Meeting or School Rooms, for their
Members to assemble, on Sundays and other days, to hear Lectures on
Co-operation and other subjects, hold Discussions, and read Co-operative
Works and Newspapers-forming a School of Mutual Instruction;
and discontinue their attendance at Public Houses, as places of meeting
or amusement.
Moved by Mr. WARDEN, seconded by the Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT, and
resolved,
24. That a Report of the Proceedings of this Congress be printed,
and copies thereof sent to each Society, with the proportionate suni ic-
quired to be paid by cach Society towards the necessary expenses in-
curred by the last and present Congresses.
ROBERT
WILLIAM THOMPSON, Chairmen.
}
Printed by Charles Watson, Milind Representative Office, 24, High-heet,
Bim'ngher..
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE THIRD
HELD IN LONDON,
AND
CO-OPERATIVE CONGRESS;
ON THE 23RD OF APRIL 1832,
07/17
X
COMPOSED OF DELEGATES FROM THE CO-OPERATIVE
SOCIETIES OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND,
London:
AND BY ADJOURNMENT ON EACH OF THE SIX FOLLOWING DAYS,
SUNDAY EXCEPTED.
REPORTED AND EDITED, BY ORDER OF THE CONGRESS,
BY WILLIAM CARPENTER.
Jou
COAOZI*
1
"WHEREAS, the Co-operative World contains persons of all
religious sects and of all political parties, it is unanimously
resolved, That Co-operators, as such, are not identified with
any religious, irreligious, or political tenets whatever; neither
those of Mr. OWEN, nor of any other individual.”
Resolution passed by Congress.
PUBLISHED BY WILLIAM STRANG E,
21, PATERNOSTER-ROW ;
AND SOLD BY ALL BOOKSELLERS,
→ ·
51
==
}
1832.
PRINTED BY G. COWIE,
BELLE SAUVAGE YARD, LUDGATE HILL.

Societies Represented.
Ardsley
Armitage Bridge.
Bolton, 1st
Bolton, 2nd
··
Bolton, Manufactory
Barnsley, West End
Barnsley
Bradford
Boothfold, 2nd.
Birmingham
Birkacre
Barns
··
Cumberworth, 1st
Darlington
Denby.
Foleshill
Glasgow.
Hathorne
Halifax
Holywell
Huddersfield, 1st
Holmfirth
Hulme
Keighley
Kendal
London, 1st
>>
""
""
"J
""
">
""
•
1st Manufacturing As-
sociation
Central Association
Kingsland....
Westminster
1st Western Union.
Metropolitan
1st Tailors
•
Barnsbury Park
·
..
Sheffield, 1st
Sheffield, 2nd
Salford, Íst
·
Outwood and Kearsley
Oldbury
Prestolee, New Mills
Rochdale, Friendly
Ralahine Community
Runcorn, Ist
Ratcliffe and Pilkington
Stockport
Shipley
Shelley
Stocksmoor
Thurstanland
Whitehaven
Wallingford
Warrington
Woolton.
..
•
·♥·
•
···
•
►
...
•
•
By Delegate or Letter.
Letter.
"
29
""
G. Mandley and J. Smith.
George Marshall
Letter.
George Marshall
Letter
•
•
Rev. C. B. Dunn and T. Hirst....
Letter
Rev. C. Dunn and T. Hirst
Richard Holmes.
·
Peter Bishop and Vincent Cook. Wm. Pare, 105, New Street, Birmingham.
W. Carson and Ed. Taylor....
R. Harriston.
Letter.
J. Nicholson.
Letter.
Rev. C. B. Dunn and T. Hirst
Ditto
G. Mandley and J. Smith
Letter.
George Gaskell
W. Lovett and J. Tucke
George Skene
G. Petrie, W. Benbow, & D.Watkins
R. Wigg
J. D. Styles and J. Pope.
B. Warden and Jas. Flather
B. Cousins and J. Elbourn
J. Fowler
T. Wilkes and J. and E. Simpson
Letter
C. B. Dunn and T. Hirst.
John Finch
J. Skevington
G. Mandley and J. Smith
Ditto
Letter..
J. Kingdom...
Zechariah Dent
Letter.
Rex, CBDunn and T First
G. Mandley and J. Smith).
William Pare
G. Mandley and J. Smitl
William Harrison
·
W. Maloney, Esq.
G. Mandley and J. Smith
Ditto
J. Willis.
Rev. J. Marriott
John Heaton
D
···
H. Beatson
R. Nash....
W. Jackson, J. Smith,
G. Mandley and J. Smith.
Rev. C. B. Dunn and THirst
Ditto
Ditto
Ditto
Letter
·
·
•
...
...
•
•
·
•
David Abbott, Ardsley near Barnsley, Yorkshire
William Clay, Armitage Bridge, near Huddersfield
Samuel Mather, Little Bolton, Lancashire
•
STATISTICAL Table of co-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES REPRI
Number Amount
When formed. of of
Membrs. Funds
Secretary's Name and Address.
Robert Roscoe, Bollings Houses, Bolton
G. Hodgkinson, Sweet Green, Bolton.
Wm. Gant, Shambles-street, Barnsley, Yorkshire
G. Brown, Wilson's Piece, Barnsley, Yorkshire.
C. Simons, 475, Fawcett Row, Bradford, ditto
J. Higgins, Boothfold, Rosendale, Lancashire...
•
99
Leicester, 3d..
Lindley
Liverpool, 1st
Loughborough.
Manchester, Economical.
Manchester, Owenian
Manchester & Salford Associa-
tion for the dissemination of W. Caldwell, W. Jackson, & T.Lowe G. Mandley, 9, Islington Grove, Salford, Manchester, April, 1831
Co-operative knowledge
Mansfield, 1st
Newark, 1st
Norwich, 1st
Newchurch, Ist
New Mill
Ellis Piggott, Printer's Arms, Salford, Lancashire………
Wm. Wood, Jun. Cumberworth, near Wakefield
J. Topham & Co. High Row, Darlington, Durham
Wm. Kilner, Denby, Wakefield, Yorkshire.
•
C. Wood & Co. Westgate, Huddersfield
Holmfirth, near Huddersfield
•
•
R. Holmes, Bell Green, Foleshill, near Coventry
A. Campbell, 42, London Street, Glasgow
J. Loseby, Hathorne, Leicestershire
D. Wilson, 41, North Bridge Street, Halifax
C. Hughes, Whiftford Street, Holywell, Denbighshire
Josh. Caldwell, 32, Chester Road, Manchester.
Wm. Hanson, 23, Sun Street, Keighley, Yorkshire
Rd. Breaks, Strammon Gate, Kendal
J. Edwards, 19, Greville Street, Hatton Garden
C. Jennerson, 3, Field Terrace, Battle Bridge….
………
J. Dunman, 8, Theobald's Road
R. Wigg, 5, Derby Road, Kingsland.
W. Rawlinson, 37, Marsham Street, Westminster:
T. Whittaker, 59, Poland Street, Oxford Street
J. King, 23, Duke's Street, Lincoln's Inn Fields
R. Campion, 59, Poland Street, Oxford Street..
...
•
•
•
E. Simpson & Co. York Place, Islington
J. Buckley, Church Gate..
Ed. Shaw, Postmaster, Lindley, near Huddersfield.
John Finch, 2, Greenland Street, Liverpool…….
C. Coe & Co. St. Martin's-at-Oak, Norwich
Rd. Holt. Newchurch, Rosendale, Lancashire.
Mr. Poarco, New Mills, near Huddersfield-
··
...
John Lowrie, Wo olton, Lancashire
...
•
•
•
J.Skevington, Fishpool-head, Loughborough
J. G. Kirkman, 7, Rogers' Row, Deansgate, Manchr.
J. Woolstencroft, 5, Blakely Street, Manchester
J. Nicholson, 28, West Bar, Sheffield, Yorkshire
F. Wade, 18, Hartshead, Sheffield, Yorkshire……..
Mandley W. Jackson, 15, Oldfield Road, Salford, Lancashire.
Feby, 1831
19, April, 1830
Jany, 1832
18, Feby, 1832
5, May, 1830
21, Mar. 1832
•
June, 1829
Feby, 1829
Aug, 1831
28, Novr 1828
••
•
J. Lister, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
J. Kingdom, Infant School, Lover's Lane, Newark..., Decr, 1831
9, Augt, 1829
5, May, 1829
April 1830
20, April, 1829
Mar, 1832
July, 1831
Novr, 1829
July, 1829
Novr,1827
J. Eattock, 84, Prestholee, near Bolton Lancashire
T. Ladyman, 70, Cheetham, Rochdale, Lancashire
..
E. T. Craig, Ralahine Community, Newton on Fergus,
County of Clare, Ireland
J. Roberts & Co. Church Lane, Runcorn, Cheshire
J. Bowker & Co. Ratcliffe Bridge, near Manchester..
·
Oct, 1881
9
3, June, 1829
Mar. 1832
Jany 1829
...
Novr, 1831
Feby, 1832
May, 1829
-, July, 1830
Novr, 1829
July, 1831
10, Oct, 1831
••^
J. Haworth, Outwood and Kearsley, nr Bolton, Lanc.
D. F. Davies, Brade's Steel Works, Oldbury, nr Bim. 20,
2
G. Ardern, 4, Higher Hillgate, Stockport, Cheshire...
John Garlic, Shipley, near Huddersfield
Josh. Spencer, Shelley, near Huddersfield.
Josh. Armitage, Stocksmoor, near Huddersfield.
J. Mellor & Co. Thurstanland, near Huddersfield
J. Gibbons, Carter Lane, Whitehaven
...
Nov.1829
Feby 1832
Jany 1830
Jany 1829
Augt, 1830
14, June1830
, Septr1827
Decr1829
Mar 1932
Deer, $31
Feby, 332
Feby, 332
Oct, 330
-, April, 331
26
25
66
32
29
83
Jany, 1830
April 1830
Octr, 1829
June, 1829
May, 1830
Feby 1832
April 1832
5, April 1830
June 1830
30
30
60
30
3000
1829
34
13
14
45
70
60
84
150
30
20
40
135
36
178938 22°*82* ** ** 3395898 8 9888844236
150
41
60
140
43
208
12
105
9
32
60
20
40
20
98
40
18
30, Augt, 1830
40.
24
50
46
52
65
180
50
60
15
15
18
40
57
£ s. d
65 0 0
No
103 9 0 One in contemplation
26 5 10 Evening School
15 12 5 Yes, 100 scholars
170 0 0
175 0 0
73 0 0
120 0 0
73 0 0
not known
4000 0 0
25 0 0
82 0 0
10
160 0 0
not known
100 0 0
40
1830
216 0 0
46 0 0
299 17 9
11 0 0
246 11 6
453 0 0
209 10 9
200 0 0
1 8 0
150 0 0
250 0 0
154 0 0
118 11 0
50 0 0
233 0 0
2 3 4
50 0
400 0
53 0 이
​68 0 0
100 0 0
60 0 0
270 0 0
328 0 0
9 0 0
20 0 0
12 11 1
108 0 0
110 13 7
300 0 0
110 0 0
278 16 6
40 0 0
34 0 0
117 13 0
106 0 0
80 0 0
Any School?
...
No
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
ZZZ ZZZK
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Sunday School
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
98 children
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
ZZZZ
No
No
200 children
No
No
No
No
No
ZZZ
No
• •
Coʻplamda temat manus
·
•
•
•
•
Any
Members
Employed?
Yes
No
None
None
•
All, and families Marseilles Bed Quilts
Several Linen Goods
Occasionally Linen Goods
ditto Heald, Yarn, and Shoes
None
None
None
None
150
None
None
No
No
Yes
Four
No
Ten
No
No
No
Nine
None
No
None
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
Ten and fai
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
PSS
All, occasionally Sundries.
Occasionally Shoes and Clothing
Clothes
Yes
All
Twelve
No
One
Several
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Articles Manufa
No
Linens, Checks, Tickings, etc.
None
None
None
Silk and Calico Printers, &c.
None
Commencing Linen Cloth
None
None
None
Tin Ware, Bushes, &c.
Stockings, &
Merinos, Stuffs, Lustrings, &c.
None
Woollen Cloth, Valencias, &c.
None
None
None
Shoes, Linen Goods, &c.
None
·
Shoes, Clothes, and in Agricul-
ture
Worsted Stockings.
None
Shoes
442
..
Razors, Scisso
Cutlery, &c. o
None
Beaver Hats,
No
None
·
Hosiery and Lace.
Ginghams.
Fustians,Cons, and Beverteens
Woollen Clot
None
..
...
10
None
Frocks,Liner, Brushes, Boots,
Shoes
Bombazines, rape, &c.
Baizes, Bockgs,
None
None
None
es Flannel
No
No
70 vols.
No
170 vols
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
Small
...! No
50 vols
No
Small
No
150 vols
No
No
200 vols
No
No
100 vols
50 vols
Small
40 vols
70 vols
No
Small
No
No
Small
150 vols
م سب
..
..
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Ye
Yes
No
Yes, have op
[with 64/.st
Yes
Yes
No
N
CONTENTS.
Preliminary business of Congress
Public meetings
Institution of the Industrious Classes
Exchange Labour Bank
43
North West of England United Co-operative Company 48 83
Address to the Governments of Europe & America 53, 59, 73
Co-operative Missionaries
57
62
Missionary Districts and Councils
Mr. Vandeleur's Establishment
District Divisions and Councils
Petitious to Parliament
Incipient Community
Labour Bank Exchange
Political and Religious Opinions
Regulations for Co-operative Societies
Expences of Delegates
Social Festival
Next Congress
Missionaries
Fundamental Principles
Delegates' Expences
Instructions to Missionaries
Conclusions
APPENDIX.
Letter from the Rochdale Society
Glasgow.
Huddersfield
Manchester
Leicester
Barnsley
Mr. John Gray
Lord Boston
Leigh Hunt, Esq.
Dr. Wade.
*
·
Page
1
2, 3
41
79
81
84
85, 108
95
•
·
100
102
103.
ibid
117
ibid
118
119
120
ibid
121
ibid
122
ibid
ibid
124
ibid
125
126
127

THE THIRD CONGRESS OF DELEGATES
FROM THE
CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES
ve to stop
OF
LAX PRE VI DAR
5
GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND.
100
THIS Congress was held on Monday, April 23d, 1832, at
the Institution of the Industrious Classes, Gray's Inn Road;
and by adjournment on each succeeding day, till the following
Monday.
617
sw did it Aest
On Monday morning, the Delegates assembled at nine
o'clock, and after some preliminary business, Mr. ROBERT
OWEN was called to the Chair. The first business was the
appointment of Secretaries, to which office the Rev. T.
M'Connell, and Messrs. Pare and Styles, were elected. ot
Mr. LOVETT next reported, that the London Committee,
that had been appointed to make arrangements for the busi-
ness of the Congress, had discharged the duties devolving upon
them in the most efficient manner they had been able. Mr.
Owen having kindly offered the use of that building for the
meetings of the Congress, the Committee, with a view of
making the proceedings as interesting and effective as pos-
sible, had arranged for holding two public meetings-one on
that day, and the other on Wednesday; and also a social
festival, on the evening of Friday. They had also drawn up
a series of resolutions, whigh, withe approbation of the
Delegates, would be subunited for adoption at the public
meetings; with such other measures as they deemed likely to
facilitate the business of the Congress. The Report of the
Committee was then received by an unanimous vote of the
Congress.
oi ed v
Mr. PARE then read the minutes of the last Congress held
at Birminghame but in consequence of some verbal inaceu
racies, their adoption was postponed, cotonet of stor
b
1 al 1507
The Congress then adjourned its private sitting until seven
o'clock in the evening bebu
basoria ai ed downd esconta
B
2
FIRST DAY.
MONDAY, APRIL 23, 1832.
PUBLIC MEETING,
HELD IN THE LARGE ROOM OF THR ASSOCIATION
FOR BETTERING THE CONDITION OF THE WORKING CLASSES,
GRAY'S INN ROAD.
The Rev. Dr. WADE moved, that Mr. OWEN do take the
Chair, which was seconded and carried unanimously.
Mr. OWEN then took the President's chair, and after a few
moments rose and addressed the meeting as follows:-Gentle-
men! As the business we are about to proceed upon is in-
tended essentially for the benefit of all the industrious classes of
society, I have to request that you will maintain as much order
among yourselves as possible, so that nothing said may be lost;
and also that those who speak upon any subject about to be
brought forward may be patiently listened to, that you may
hear as well the arguments against as those for any measure pro-
posed. This congress is held with a view to recommend compe-
tent measures to give effectual and permanent relief to the entire
population from their present moral and political difficulties;
measures to enable the public to understand how to act, to over-
come, or rather to pass out of, the unfavourable circumstances
in which they are now placed, and to create for themselves new
circumstances, founded upon principles of science, by which a
new and superior combination of external arrangements may
exist; a combination of arrangements that may be now formed
in the shortest possible time for the inhabitants of this country,
and that, by their example, all other countries may be equally
benefitted. As many of you may be strangers to the simple,
practical principles we recommend, I will shortly state to you
the foundation of our proceedings; for, unless you know these,
your minds must necessarily be in a state of confusion. The
wisest men who have lived through all past generations have,
after the most particular investigation of human proceedings,
come to the conclusion that, to a very great extent, man ever
has been, now is, and ever must be, the creature of the circum-
stances by which he is surrounded. This being the case, the
3
science which we have to discover and adopt is that which will
withdraw and prevent the recurrence of those vicious and un-
favourable circumstances which are known to exist; or, if that
be impracticable (which I am obliged to conclude), to discover
the means by which we may now, or in the shortest time, create
new combinations of circumstances, all of which shall have di-
rect reference to the improvement of the human character, phy-
sically, intellectually, and morally, to the highest point of per-
fection, and beneficially for the individuals themselves and for
their fellow creatures. These are the outlines of our principles,
and upon these the present Congress is about to act. And when
the separate measures shall be brought forward by the different
speakers, we shall be delighted to hear any thing that may be
erroneous detected and made so plain that we must give them
up and adopt something more true. We shall not endeavour
to establish any thing but that which is proved to be true by
all known facts. There will be nothing uncertain in our mea-
sures. If what we propose shall not be in accordance with
every fact human nature can investigate, we will give it up, be-
cause we shall be sure that it is founded in error.
You may,
therefore, expect to hear nothing recommended by the delegates
but that which shall be in strict accordance with every known
and well ascertained fact. Having said thus much, I leave it
to the gentlemen by whom I am surrounded to say what they
have to say, only observing, that I trust the strictest order will
be observed, and that every thing will be spoken in the spirit
of our system, abjuring all personalities and animosities of
every description. Our object is not to divide mankind; they
are sufficiently divided already. Our intention and aim is to
find out a new mode by which all may be cordially and affec-
tionately united in one common interest.
Mr. WILLIAM LOVETT, a Delegate from the first London Co-
operative Society, proposed the first resolution, and addressed
the meeting as follows:-In the resolution I have to propose
are involved a number of important points; I would therefore
hope that wherein I may be deficient in developing and en-
forcing them, some allowance will be made for an individual
who has not had the advantages of a liberal or scholastic edu-
cation. And, further, that though I may possibly express my-
self in language somewhat warmer and stronger than the social
system would strictly warrant, you will bear in mind that I,
too, have been the creature of circumstances, and been sub-
jected to the deteriorating influence of the present wretched
state of society. When such strange anomalies and perplexing
contradictions are presented to the mind of the anxious and
philanthropic inquirer, as every where present themselves in
this country, surely it becomes the duty of every lover of his
species to awake from his apathy, and make diligent inquiry
relative to the causes of the evils, and the remedy that might be
"
4
promptly and effectively applied. Nay, we would say to those
persons not possessed of feelings of sympathy; to those whose
hearts are steeled by selfishness, or blunted by their interests;
to those who live on man, and not for man,-that they too
should take warning by passing events, if not for others, for
their own safety, lest, I was going to say, the just anger of an
oppressed people, like the bursting volcano, sweep them away
in the imagined security of their possessions. Surely it is high
time for all to inquire, for all to cast their immediate interests
aside, when the result of their honest inquiries may save their
country from fire and sword, and prevent their unfortunate
brethren from preying upon one another. Shall it be said, that
we are careless and neglectful, or apathetic, as regards our
future fate? When we may look around us and view our coun-
try teeming with every necessary of life; when our towns and
cities present to the gazing traveller every luxury and orna-
ment that can please the eye or engage the fancy; when the
foreigner is struck with astonishment at the vastness of our
resources, the extent and ingenuity of our machinery, our arts,
and manufactures, and, above all, with the industry of Eng-
lishmen, -every reflecting mind is satisfied, that all these
resources could be applied in such manner as to give the
greatest amount of happiness to every human being. Yet, with
this conviction, does not the heart bleed when the mind re-
flects, that, amid our fruitful valleys the labouring peasant
groans for bread?-that, amid the pomp and splendour of our
cities, thousands are perishing for lack of food?—that, in the
midst of our ingenious machinery, the meagre countenance
and stinted frame indicate premature decay, and their offspring
seem born to no other inheritance than that of starving sla-
very? This, my friends, is no exaggerated picture, drawn to
exasperate your feelings,-but an imperfect description of the
reality. We ourselves have witnessed scenes, that language will
fail us in describing, of the misery and wretchedness of the
poor. Do you doubt our assertion? Consult the columns of our
daily newspapers, many of which are interested in concealing
the truth. Yet there you may daily read of thousands perish-
ing for want, of whole parishes becoming paupers, and of
every fifth man in England being dependant on charity for his
daily bread;-you may read of mothers whose maternal feel-
ings have led them to cheat their starving children with the
appearance of food, having none to give them, until sleep had
silenced their cries; of human beings ekeing out a wretched
existence by devouring the weeds of the ocean-of hunger-
driving despair, the bitterness of want, starving frenzy-and
of the revenge of famine, bringing death and desolation in its
train. If you would see for yourselves in order to be con-
vinced you may, if you possess hearts stout enough to witness
such scenes of extreme wretchedness, go to the east of this
-
5
虞
​metropolis, and there, among the weavers, see misery in every
stage of existence;-you may see the demon of famine wasting
their vitals, while they industriously toil at their looms for
sixteen hours daily, without being able to earn sufficient to
satisfy the cravings of hunger;—you may, if their honest pride
will permit you, see the wretched place in which they repose
after their long and unsuccessful toil;-you may go listen
to the cries of their famishing children, and enter into the
feelings of a parent's heart who possesses not the means of
satisfying their hunger;-you may follow them, after a life of
toil and misery, or when they possess not the power to labour,
to the parish poor-house, where you may see the husband sepa-
rated from the wife, the child from its mother, and, amid the
putrid and noxious atmosphere of fifteen hundred persons, see
them literally crammed eight and ten in a bed—the once clean
and industrious mechanic breathing his last, beside his feverish
and often putrid bedfellow. To sum up this catalogue of wretch-
edness, you might, a few weeks since, have seen three lying-in
women, together with their infants, all in one bed ;—this, too,
in London, the metropolis of a Christian country, where
luxury expends its thousands at a mea!, where thousands are
daily wasted in profusion-where our Legislature is employed
in expending thousands on useless palaces for royalty, splendid
barracks for soldiers, and in devising schemes and plans to
keep the people in subjection! Such, then, are the scenes of
wretchedness, such the condition-nay, tenfold worse than
I can describe to you-of unhappy England,happy in the
possession of every thing calculated to render life desirable,
unhappy in the manner in which those blessings are distri-
buted. Without, however, wishing to excite prejudice against
the individual members of any party, with no disposition to
declaim against any particular measure, however mischievous
its apparent tendency, as we purpose in this meeting at least
to pass by the minor effects of the evil, and see if it be possible
to trace it to its source; confident, as we are, that, until cor-
ruption be probed to the core, no permanent remedy can be
found for the miseries and poverty of the people; that neither
peace nor happiness can exist.—(Great applause.) Most of the
co-operators are of opinion, that the primary cause of the pre-
sent evils which afflict society is ignorance, both on the part of
the governors and the governed. Ignorance on the part of
those who have hitherto ruled the destinies of nations, or di-
rected the different departments of states, in believing that
the most efficient mode of developing all the natural powers
of man, is to put him in a state of rivalry or competition with
his fellow-man; and, in holding out to him, at the same time,
every specious inducement of riches, glory, power, and pre-
eminence, to urge him on to outstrip his brother, who, failing
in the pursuit, must be subjected to disappointments, poverty,
R 2
SMİ A
$
M
6
8
shame, and derision. These rulers of the world never for a
moment enquired whether those individuals in their active
and bustling pursuits enjoyed happiness or not. They never
for a moment seemed to consider the cares and anxieties at-
tendant on this race; they cared not for the heart-burnings,
the jealousies, and the contentions produced by this compe-
titive race; they thought not of the present or the future con-
sequences. No; blindly believing that they had discovered
the grand stimulus to action by a system of rewards and pu-
nishments, they framed all their political and social institutions
accordingly. Hence, the result of this competitive spirit is
apparent in the great inequality we perceive around us-in
the extremes of poverty and riches that exist;-hence the
conflicting passions that distract mankind; hence our nu-
merous codes of laws to punish, our privileges and distinc-
tions to reward. Power and riches once acquired by this
selfish and competitive spirit, have been transmitted down-
ward from father to son, and the man of wealth and pri-
vilege seems resolved to perpetuate his power, though mil-
lions be daily sacrificed to effect it. Thus this struggle for
pre-eminence, combined with the natural temperament of
man, has secured the power and despotism of the few, and
at the same time has been productive of the poverty and
wretchedness of the many. Many persons, I know, entertain
the opinion, that to the selfish, cunning, and rapacious feel-
ings of men are to be attributed despotic power and corrupt
legislation. But we ask, are not those feelings the result of
the primary cause, Ignorance; and are they not perpetuated
to the present moment by the same mistaken notion of the na-
ture of man? We are, from having a spirit of emulation and
ambition instilled into our minds from infancy, pleased with
the competitive strife of the men of wealth or ambition. We
perceive men spring up from our own rank, and struggling
onward in the bustling pursuit of wealth and distinction, we
approve of the inequality and despotism they engender, by
the conviction, or rather the mistaken notion, in our own
minds, that they are pursuing the honest path of competitive
enterprise, or, if perchance we murmur at their progress, it
is from envy or regret that we possessed not the same talent
or ability. Thus, while we ignorantly believe that this con-
flict is favorable in order to develope the natural powers of
man, and seem careless of those sacrifices of comfort, happi-
ness, and peace of mind which are thereby occasioned, we
shall ever have inequality, poverty, despotism, and corrupt
legislation. Thus then, from this mistaken opinion, we co-
-operators conceive that our present evils have emanated,
and that from the ignorance of the multitude they are perpe-
tuated; and though we believe changes may be made in the
legislature and the laws, progressing towards a better sys-
S
7
tem, yet at the same time we feel confident that, until ar
rangements are made for placing men in a situation to work
with, instead of against, each other, and rendering our pro-
ductive powers of general utility, and for the cultivation of
the social virtues, the condition of the working classes will
not be permanently improved, under any form of government
that can possibly be devised. Let me not be misunderstood.
I have said changes may be made, progressing towards a
better system. But under the best forms of government
that have ever existed, I ask you, has happiness been the lot
of the multitude? On the contrary, the spirit of competition I
have alluded to, has rendered the industry and happiness of
the many subservient to the luxury and dissipation of the few.
It has engendered domestic broils, rivalry, and jealousy in the
social circle, contentions in trade and commerce, war between
nations, and, ripening into ambition, has caused your Alexan-
ders, your Cæsars, your Napoleons, to sacrifice to their frenzy,
millions of the human race. Nay, when peace has blessed the
land, and when the laws have rendered the fruits of industry
secure, even then how small a portion of human happiness
has existed, commensurate with the means, if rightly di-
rected. The husbandman and the tradesman rise with the
sun to toil in the morning, and think themselves happy in.
resting from their labours when it descends below the hills of
the west. The distributor of wealth, and the man of commerce,
are alike subject to the cares of conflicting interests and re-
peated losses, and there are few to be found whose hearts re-
spond in unison when the hand of friendship is shaken. In
fact, hitherto, life at best has been but one of toil, of care, and
of discontent. And in this country, blessed as it is with the
means of happiness, such has been the lamentable effects of
the competitive system, that, while we have progressed
beyond any other nation in our machinery and powers of
production, it has engendered such passions, poverty, and
misery, that, with all the power and knowledge we possess,
moral and religious, directed towards checking the progress
of crime, it has increased tenfold within these few years.
This fact, which all must acknowledge, affords one of the
strongest proofs in favour of what I have been contending
for; it ought also to convince us, that in vain will be our
precepts of morality and religion, while we suffer man to
strive with man for his daily bread, and with the power of
machinery, which needs neither meat, drink, nor clothing.
Competition, therefore, my friends, has generated those sel-
fish feelings, partial laws, corrupt legislation, and coercive
measures which have given birth to our debt and enormous tax-
ation; which, again, coupled with our new powers of produc
tion, have brought things to their present crisis. I know there are
persons who differ with us respecting the influence of machinery
8
and the powers of production. The Society for Promoting Use-
ful Knowledge has endeavoured to prove that the results of
machinery are cheap productions and increased employment.
Now, we are willing to admit that it has cheapened produc-
tion; but, before we proceed to laud this benefit, we should
proceed a step further, and inquire what the great bulk of the
people have gained by this cheapness? This question will be
best answered by asking, what forms the chief expenditure of
every poor family? Does it not consist in rent, taxes, fuel, and
victuals; none of which can be said to be influenced by machi-
nery, if we except fuel. I ask, then, have not rents doubled
within these few years? have not taxes increased ten fold within
the last fifty years? and have not corn and the staple commo-
dities of life, so far from becoming cheaper, become dearer?
The only benefit, then, of this cheapness will be found in a
few articles of clothing and bedding; and, if the workman's
wages be reduced one half (which has been the case in the silk,
cotton, and woollen trades, as well as other trades in propor-
tion,) how, we ask the Society for Promoting Useful Know-
ledge, are the people benefited by this cheapness? They fur-
ther say that machinery has given increased employment. Now,
if this were true, we should think that, in proportion to its in-
creasing power, so would the population of this country be be-
neficially employed. I know they attempt to get over this, by
saying, that the number out of employment is to be attributed to
an over-population. Let us try to expose this fallacy. We
have, in this country, a moving power, through the medium of
steam engines alone, equal to 600,000,000 of men, which power,
according to the best calculations, can be managed by 36,000
men. Our means for producing cotton thread has increased in
the ratio of 130 to 1, within the memory of the present genera-
tion. The persons employed in this branch alone, are about
200,000, and if they were allowed to produce as much as they
are enabled to do, or if there was a demand for it, either at
home or abroad, they could supply a population of 30,000,000
of persons. It is true, we have been supplying, in a great inea-
sure, Russia, Germany, and America with cotton weft and
twist; but they, too, are now introducing machinery into their
country, with our practical and experienced workmen to direct
it. Thus you must see that every foreign machine that is
erected will have a tendency to throw English workmen out
of employment. Again, there are about 60,000 water and
power looms in this country, which can produce a sufficient
quantity of cloth to employ a population of 77 millions. These
are only a few of our productive powers. In addition to these,
the press is daily giving publicity to new inventions and im-
provements, all tending to supersede manual labour. Will you
say, then, after this, that any little reduction of taxation, such as
the inere repeal of the corn laws, will promote a sufficient de-
·
·
9
mand, either at home or abroad, to give employment and good
wages to the great number now out of employment, when such
is the power of those machines to produce? Not that we are
apologists for monopoly or taxation, or that we do not think
they have accelerated our present distress; but we would wish
you to look beyond these evils to a greater one, that of machi-
nery, and our productive powers, under individual arrangements.
You will find, upon mature reflection, the fallacy of believing
that the removal of taxation or the abolition of monopolies,
alone, will relieve your distreses. All that prevents at present the
increase of machinery is, there being no demand for its produc-
tions: create but this demand, by the repeal of those laws, or by
any other cause, and you will immediately, not only set in mo-
tion the machinery that is now idle, but also the great amount
of unemployed capital in the erection of new machines, new
inventions, and improvements. The question, then, as to the
cause of the great numbers now out of employment being
occasioned by our productive improvements, or by the increase
of population, seems a simple one. Our powers of production
(that is to say, our machinery and inventions) have increased in
these few years at least 80 fold, above the power we previously
possessed; and the population of England and Wales has only
doubly increased within the last 80 years. Can the power that
has increased eighty-fold, then, be cause of the evil, or that
which has increased only two-fold? Surely it is that of
eighty-fold. Do we mention these things, my friends, to ex-
cite your feelings against machinery? No; on the contrary,
we are only anxious to impress on your minds its tendency to
augment your evils under its present arrangement, and the
great blessing it would be to man to adopt the system which
Mr. Owen has proposed. Thus, I have endeavoured to show
you the cause of the present evils of society; I have shown, un-
less I have failed in the attempt, that the competitive strife be-
tween man and man has generated the worst passions of our
nature; that, under the present system, it is the interest of
one tradesman to ruin another; that it is the interest of the
lawyer to see men tearing each other to pieces, or if they
are peaceable, to set them by the ears; that it is the interest
of the doctor that men should be ill-of the parson, that men
should be wicked, and consequently our boasted civilization
and refinement does not augment the happiness of the human
race. In fact, I conceive men would be much happier in a
state of nature. The Society which I have named, have said
much in their works respecting savage life, and savage man-
ners, and uncultivated nature-and have extolled with com-
placency the merits of our civil institutions; but humanity
and justice will tell them that the contrast mocks us. What!
will you compare the brawny savage bounding over the
plains (free, at least, to participate in the bounties which

10
nature has thrown around him) with the half-starved inmates
of our factories, or the unhappy peasant, shut out from every
spot of ground, and on which he dares not set his foot with-
out the risk of a prison? Nay, even when with toil and
anxiety he produces comforts, they are too often snatched
from his children and given to strangers; and, labour failing
him, every natural avenue is barred against him, and he is
turned into the wilderness to starve! Surely, when such
scenes of wretchedness exist, the wished-for object to every
sensitive and reflecting mind is to remedy those evils, and to
unite human beings of all ranks, creeds, professions, and
occupations; to place the rich in a situation where their
physical and moral energies shall be called into action to
produce health, pleasure, and contentment-where they shall
be free to bask in the sunshine of happiness, secure and
unapprehensive of the clouds, the cares, the alarms to which
they are now subjected-a situation where the ennui of
sloth, the jealousies of rank, or the frenzy of ambition shall
be unknown. To place the poor and honest children of in-
dustry in situations where, with equal advantages of know-
ledge, and leisure to pursue the delights of art and nature-
where the impressions of love, sympathy, and affection
shall form the mind, make glad the heart, and light up the
face with joy; a union wherein the selfish feeling shall be
sacrificed to the social weal-when all for each, and each
for all, shall make of this world of cares and anxieties a ter-
restrial paradise. Surely, the moralist or divine can never
conceive it to be compatible with the arrangements of art or
nature, that the extremes of wealth and wretchedness which
now exist in this country can be desirable, can be natural.
No, my friends; we have yet to learn the correct basis of so-
cial happiness, and to found a superstructure thereon differing
in every respect from the one which has been productive of
so much evil. Co-operators, however, conceive that the basis
and theory of so desirable an object, as well as some practi-
cal steps towards its attainment, have been submitted to man-
kind by the Governor of this Institution, and all that is requi-
site to put it into practice is a general knowledge of its merits.
It has been said by those who condemn without inquiry, or
whose interests have dulled their understandings, that it is
Utopian and visionary: but, in answer to such persons, we
may point to the practical experiments that have already been
made in support of what they call visionary. Has not Mr.
Owen shown how circumstances operate in the formation of
the infant character in his infant schools? Has he not shown
how a vicious population can be improved by well-selected
circumstances, in his experiment at New Lanark? Has he
not shown the benefits of communities and social unions in
his accounts of New Harmony? In fact, he seems to have
1
11
produced conclusive proof for almost all he has contended
for. It may be asked, when can we hope to realise this?
When shall that delightful period arrive, when we shall find
a people animated with one heart and one soul? We answer,
When the voice of reason is heard, and those who possess
power are disposed to listen to her warning voice, or in despite
of their obstinacy, when the wild ebullitions of an injured peo-
ple shall have swept away the rubbish of ages, and cleared the
political arena. Then will the widely-scattered rays of useful
knowledge be collected into one focus; then will the gem of
truth be polished by philosophy, and its cheering beams be
diffused without obstruction among mankind; then will the
sons and daughters of industry, who are now bowed down
with incessant toil, bearing on their haggard cheek the cares
of penury and want, soon learn to estimate its blessings, and
practise its precepts. They will then no longer submit to
the frowns of headstrong greatness or assumed sanctity; they
will then no longer be subservient to the imperious will of a
master; but, taught by experience, they will learn to sacri-
fice their selfish feelings to the social welfare of society, and
to learn that real happiness is only to be found when, with
united industry, they cultivate the earth, and enjoy the bene-
fits in common.
Mr. JOHN FINCH, a Delegate from the First Liverpool Co-
operative Society, seconded the Resolution, and spoke as
follows:-Mr. Chairman, brother Delegates, and Friends!
after the very able speech which you have already heard upon
this Resolution, nothing more can be said, perhaps, to recom-
mend it to your notice. The Delegate by whom it was moved
has said much upon the distress of the labouring classess, under
the present competitive state of society; I shall therefore abstain
from all remarks upon that topic, and offer a few remarks upon
the existing distress of the commercial class. I have lately
been in Ireland, travelling from Belfast to Dublin, visiting the
intermediate towns; and I assure you, that in every place the
state of commercial affairs is represented to be most deplor-
able. All men with whom I conversed upon the subject, con-
curred in stating that the situation of commercial persons
during the last three or four months had been much worse
than had been known for fifty years past. There has been
scarcely any business done, and what little has been transacted
has been productive of no profit. But these are merely general
statements; every man knows his own business best, and as
we are matter-of-fact people, I shall state to you a fact or two
relative to that branch of commerce of which I know the
most; namely, the iron trade. In reference to that trade, I can
state to you most truly, that in all the sales made in that
article, for some time past, scarcely any profit has been realised

12
Nay, such is the state of competition, that it is with great diffi-
culty the first cost of the article can be obtained. Nor is it any
better with the manufacturers of the article. I mention this
branch of trade for two reasons; the first, because I am the
best acquainted with it; the second, because it furnishes an
index to the state of trade in general. When the iron trade is
brisk it is a proof that other trades are also brisk, for almost
every other trade consumes more or less of iron. The greater
the quantity of this consumed, therefore, the more prosperous
must be the state of trade in general. The accounts re-
ceived in Liverpool, from persons in every part of the country,
is of the same melancholy description. Trade is every where
in the most depressed and distressed condition; and commer-
cial men, in consequence, in circumstances of the greatest
difficulty. As this is the first Resolution, and this the com-
mencement of the third Congress of Co-operative Societies, it
may not be amiss to state a few of the objects for which we
have met together, and also to address a few words to my bro-
ther Delegates on the business before them.
We have met, in the first place, then, to receive information
as to the progress which the new views of society have made in
the kingdom. Secondly, to ascertain how far the people are
prepared to act upon those views. Thirdly, to enquire what
has been already done to realise them in practice. Fourthly,
to point out and adopt the most practicable mode of bringing
these principles of the social system into full operation, and
extend them in the most efficient manner. Nothing can be of
greater importance than that we should have clear and distinct
notions of the first principles of our system; I shall therefore,
in a few words, set before you what I conceive to be the first
principles of the co-operative system, or new science of society,
proposing the happiness of the human race.
1. Our great principle is, that man is the creature of circum-
stances; or, as Mr. OWEN expresses it, that his character
is formed for him, and not by himself; that his character
and conduct, from the cradle to the grave, depend on the
circumstances in which he is placed. If this principle
be right, all our principles are so; it may be necessary,
therefore, to say a few words upon it. And yet the prin-
ciple is so generally acknowledged, that this might be
deemed superfluous. All men acknowledge the prin-
ciple as a general truth; although all do not carry it to the
extent that we do. They admit that if you "train up a
child in the way he should go, when he is old he will not
depart from it" and what is this but the doctrine that
man is the creature of circumstances. Form his charac-
ter in early life by favourable circumstances, and he will
I
!
13
grow up a wise and virtuous being. All acknowledge the
truth of our doctrine to this extent; and the number of
those who go all the length with us is daily increasing.
2. Another of our principles is, that the great end of all
government, and of all national institutions, ought to be
the greatest happiness of the greatest number.
3. Another principle is, that labour directed by knowledge is
the source of all wealth, and that these, assisted by capital
and machinery, are capable of deluging the earth with all
the necessaries, comforts, elegancies, and refinements of
the most civilized society.
}
4. In the next place, we believe that the reasons why mankind
do not attain the possession and enjoyment of this state
of society are, that the energies of the industrious are
misdirected, or not brought into operation at all; and that
great numbers are living upon the industry of others,
without giving any equivalent to society in return.
5. Another principle is, that all interest of money, all rent of
land, all salaries without services, all unnecessary govern-
meut expences, and all other modes of living without per-
sonal labour, either mental or bodily, is so much taken
from the earnings of the industrious; is unjust in prin-
ciple, and ought to be put an end to.
6. In the next place, that notwithstanding the truths just
enumerated, the injustice involved in the existing depar-
tures from them is not chargeable on any individual mem-
ber of society, as such, but to the system under which we
live; and, therefore, that no individual ought to be de,
prived of the least fraction of property which he or she
possesses; but that the industrious ought to take such mea-
sures as will secure to them capital, machinery, and land
of their own, and thus render the assistance of the idle
unnecessary, and compel every member of society to be-
come useful.
M
•
7. Again, that every employment in which men may be en-
gaged is valuable, and every member of society, is respect-
able, reverend, honourable, and right honourable, exactly,
and only, in proportion to the necessity and usefulness of
the labour in which he or she may be engaged.
8. Another principle is, that society may and ought to be so
constituted, that every new discovery in science and im-
provement in machinery shall multiply comforts, increase
wealth, and lessen toil; so that, ultimately, there should be
no more labour wanted than is necessary for the healthful
exercise of every member of society.
9. Lastly, that these principles can be fully developed only in
a state of community, conducted and governed on the
principles of united capital, labour, and expenditure of
an equality of rights, and of the means of enjoyment.
с
14
Now, these may be considered as the first principles of the
co-operative system. And, let me ask, is there any thing vi-
sionary in them? I appeal to the understanding of every one
upon this point. I ask whether there be any thing really im-
practicable in the principles and measures I have enumerated
On the contrary, are they not easily to be brought into prac.
tice? As I said before, there are four subjects upon which the
Congress is about to enter.
1. To inquire what progress our principles have already
made. Upon this point I may remark, that their progress within
the last twelve months has exceeded the most sanguine expec-
tations of its warmest and most enthusiastic advocates. That
man is the creature of circumstances is now almost universally
acknowledged. The best writers in the newspapers and other
publications of the day, as well as some of the most eloquent
preachers in the religious world, have fully and expressly ad-
mitted this principle, as well as another of our fundamental
maxims; namely, that the great end of all social institutions
is, or ought to be, the greatest happiness of the greatest num-
bers. The important truth that labour, directed by intelli-
gence, is the source of all wealth, is every where assented
to; and that other fact, that every employment is honour-
able in proportion to its usefulness, has recently been beauti-
fully illustrated in a little work on Political Economy, by
Miss Harriet Martineau. In fact, all our principles are making
the most rapid progress in different parts of the kingdom.
2. In the next place, how far are people prepared to act upon
these principles? The progress that has been made in act-
ing upon these principles has not been so rapid as the progress
of the principles themselves. But the diffusion of knowledge
is the first thing. There have been societies formed in va-
rius parts of the kingdom, called Trade Unions, or Co-ope-
rative Societies, the object of which is to unite their members
in the attainment of knowledge, and also to obtain posses-
sion of capital. The first proposed object of these Unions
has been realised. Large numbers of persons, chiefly of the
working classes, have been brought together, and united in
one common bond of interest and affection. But I am sorry
to say, that some of them have failed in the other object of
their association; that is, the attainment of capital. I shall
enumerate some of the causes, as I have observed them, of this
failure. The first cause has been a want of union and active
co-operation amongst the members. They have neglected
their meetings, failed to make themselves properly and fami-
iarly acquainted with the principles and proceedings of their
society, and left the management of their concerns to a few
individuals. Another cause of this failure has been the ex-
istence of a spirit of selfishness amongst them--a spirit which
has been engendered in some degree, perhaps, by these socie-
-
•
15
ties themselves. Shop-keeping has no tendency to improve
either their principles or their morals. In the next place,
there has been a general neglect of business on the part of the
members. They have not carefully audited their accounts,
diligently looked after the purchases made for them, or super-
intended and regulated their stock. Another cause has been
the members not dealing at their own stores. It was not te
be expected that the trading societies should, answer their ends,
if the shop were deserted by its own proprietors. Another
difficulty attending these societies, and which has tended to
render them sometimes abortive, is the great responsibility
that attaches to the trustees, whilst there is no bond of union
with the members. The trustees take upon themselves the
responsibility of paying all accounts, and answering all de-
mands upon the society. The members, on the other hand,
take upon themselves no responsibility; and if the society
should be found unprosperous they walk themselves out, leav-
ing the trustees with all the responsibility and a losing con-
cern. The incapacity or dishonesty of store keepers or man-
agers, has also been a cause of loss and failure.—But upon
this topic I shall not now enlarge.
3. What are the most practicable means of bringing our
views and principles into operation? What is it that we
want for this purpose? We want labour, knowledge, virtue,
capital, and land. Of labour there is, as we have been told
by Mr. Lovett, a superabundance. Knowledge is the next
thing we want; and though this has been greatly increased
within a few years past, we are still in want of much more.
What then should we do to promote a more general diffusion
of knowledge? Let us, as a body, apply to the legislature to
extend the benefits of national education to England as well
as to Ireland. The system introduced into that country is on
a most liberal scale, but we want one for this country even
more liberal than that. We want the people to be instructed
in every branch of useful science and knowledge. Let us
then call upon our liberal and enlightened government-a
government more deserving of the confidence of the people
than any government we have had for many years; let us
call upon them to confer upon us a national system of edu-
cation, conducted upon such liberal principles, and diffusing
knowledge in such copious streams, that every member of
society-from the highest to the lowest-shall consider it to
be the greatest privilege he can enjoy to be permitted to send
his children to a national school. Let them be boarding schools
wherein the children of the whole population may be re-
ceived from their mothers' breasts, and be fed, clothed, and
instructed in all necessary and useful knowledge. I would
have the schools divided into two classes; the one for infants;
the other for children of more advanced years. To the schools
:
16
for the latter, there should be attached land, and each child
should have competent instruction in the cultivation of the
soil, as well as in the various branches of handicraft and ma-
nufacturing employment. They should provide their own
food, and make their own clothes. These schools would fully
support themselves, and by their means the whole population
would be trained up in, or be prepared for, a perfect state of
community. In conclusion, I would guard you against one
thing, I mean religion. I do not think that we ought at all to
medīde with this, in our proceedings here; and I am therefore
sorry when I hear persons declaim against the religion of the
country. The principles of Co-operation are more in accord-
ance with the priuciples of the Gospel, than are those of any other
sect in existence. Both systems enjoin as paramount the prin-
ciples of love to God and our neighbour. Is not this the sum
and substance of religion?
❤
→
:
·
Mr. MANDLEY, a Delegate from the Manchester Council for
the Diffusion of Co-operative Knowledge, supported the reso-
lution, and corroborated some of the statements of Mr. LOVETT
relative to the distressed condition of the labouring classes. Of
that district in particular, whence he came, he could speak with
the greatest confidence, but language would fail to describe
the destitution and wretchedness of thousands of the weavers
and cotton manufacturers. The spirit of patriotism frequently
impelled us to talk of the wealth, the intelligence, and the hap-
piness of our country; but, alas! we never in such moments
thought of the situation of the producers of all our wealth.
Something had been said of the heart-burnings, and jealousies,
and envyings, which were the fruit of the present anomalous
state of society; and to these he would add the vice and im-
morality it necessarily produced. In the cotton mills, in and
about Manchester, males and females, from the tender age of
five or six years, to the most protracted period at which they
possessed sufficient physical strength to labour, were mixed toge-
ther in large masses; and the consequence was a most frightfu
daily increase of crime. He would it should be known, as the
result of this system, that in Manchester there were more cases
of bastardy than in any other country in the world. It was no
uncommon thing to see on a Thursday, at the Sessions House,
at Salford, fifty females who had to affiliate children. In fact,
whether he looked to the country or to the metropolis, to one
species of crime or to another, the state of the national morals
was frightful in the extreme. And all this was to be traced to
the inequality in the condition of mankind. The majority
of them were cut off from all sympathy with their fellow-crea-
tures. They had no character to lose. For them radical
reform would be unproductive of good. It was by the recep-
tion of knowledge and truth, and by this only, or by this com-
bined with a participation of a moderate share of the comforts
་
17
美
​of life, that such persons as these could be raised from the de-
graded and wretched condition in which they were now sunk.
And how was this desired object to be achieved? By the
means developed and illustrated by Mr. OwEN. In the town
of Manchester, he rejoiced to say there were many young and
respectable men wedded to the doctrines of Mr. OwEN, and
resolved, at the cost of any sacrifice or privation, to carry them
into practical effect. It had been justly said, that notwith-.
standing we possessed all the requisite means for promoting the
happiness of mankind, there were thousands of the industrious
population in a state of starvation. Was that any wonder,
when the state of trade and commerce was looked into? He
himself knew a case, where an individual came to the gentle-
man in whose employment he (Mr. M.) then was, and offered
a large quantity of goods to be shipped off to New York, at
one half the price they cost in the manufacture. This was
called shipping on consignment; and truly it consigned thou-
sands to the most abject poverty and wretchedness. Many of
the poor workmen who were employed in the manufacture of
these goods were destitute of a blanket to cover them, and had
even been obliged to beg from door to door, to procure the
means of subsistence. They were now unemployed. Was
there no demand for the articles they could produce? Surely
there was, if necessity constituted a demand; but as there was
no disposable capital, there was no commercial demand.
The latter part of the Resolution stated that "the fearful
extent of pauperism and crime afford lamentable proofs either
that a state of civilization and refinement does not augment
the happiness of the human race, or that we have yet to learn
the correct basis of social policy, and to erect a superstructure
thereon, differing in every respect from the one that is produc-
tive of such contradictions and anomalies.”
He thought all would agree, that pauperism and crime
abounded to a fearful extent, and that if government was in-
stituted for the happiness of the community, they had been
proved to have been incapable of promoting their object.
This brought him to enquire whether it were possible to devise
means which should effectuate this object. He thought those
means had not now to be devised. They had been formed and
developed, and it only now remained to act upon them. They
had been proposed by Mr. OWEN, and their peculiarity and
excellence was, that they would be productive of the interest
of every man; making the happiness of each the happiness.
of all. The object they proposed, however, was not attain-
able in large and densely populated cities, but only in mode-
rately sized communities, where the circuinstances might be so
formed as to be favorable to the production of the highest in-
tellectual, moral, and physical character. They might not be
able, in such communities, to guard against all "the ills that
·
G 3
18
flesh is heir to," in the shape of physical infirmity and dis
ability; but they could avoid much of what men now suffered,
aud the sufferings of the afflicted would be soothed by those
around them, for they would all love each other.
Mr. FOSLETT also spoke in support of the Resolution. One
of the previous speakers, he remarked, had dwelt upon the im-
portance of the education of the people, and he (Mr. R.) be
lieved that must be the basis of the new system. The De-
legate to whom he referred, however, had said that the Go-
vernment should confer upon us a liberal and efficient plan of
education, and had even gone so far as to express a belief that
they would do so, were they asked for the boon. As soon,
however, could he believe that the sun would melt the rocks,
and dry up the rivers, as that men whose minds had been
formed as their's had, would give any such thing. Well, then,
let the working classes, the only practically useful portion of
society do it for themselves. But how could they do it? By
union, after this manner.-Let societies endeavour to put them-
selves into possession of land, and this they might do, even at a
rental which they would not find it difficult to pay. Let them then
set their unemployed members to work, in the labour of culti-
vation, and let another portion of them be engaged in pro-
ducing such manufactured articles as were in immediate de-
mand by the rest of the members. Let them also introduce the
use of labour notes; and thus, without the intervention of mo-
ney, which was by no means necessary, exchange the produce
of each other's labour. In this way they would soon acquire
capital, which consisted, not in gold and silver, but in all the
materials of workmanship and the implements of trade, as well
as in the skill, ingenuity, and industry of the work men. Having
possessed themselves of the means of producing wealth, let them
refuse to supply the other classes of society: he recommended
that, not from any bad feeling, but from principle. Until they
did that, they would remain degraded, destitute, and despised,
as they were, and ever had been; but that plan once adopted;
they would become prosperous and respected by the other two
classes of society,whom they might then take by the hand, and
introduce into all the enjoyments of their social family. He
concluded by reiterating his belief, that it was thus in the
power of the labourers to regenerate society; to make man a
machine in which intellect should be the main spring and
benévolence the ruling passion.
The Chairman then read the resolution: "That with all the
boasted attainments of Englishmen, in literature, the arts, and
the sciences; with all our improvements in agriculture, manu-
factures, and the powers of production-the affecting scenes of
misery daily witnessed, together with the unheard of privations
that exist among the industrious classes of the United King-
dom, as well as the present state of our trading and commercial
•
4
19
pursuits; and, above all, the fearful extent of pauperism and
crime; afford lamentable proofs, either that a state of civiliza-
tion and refinement does not augment the happiness of the
human race, or that we have yet to learn the correct basis of
social policy, and to erect thereon a superstructure differing in
every respect from the one that is productive of such contra-
dictions and anomalies."-Carried unanimously.
The Rev. Mr.MARRIOTT, of Warrington, moved the second Re-
solution, and addressed the meeting as follows:-Sir: the reso-
lution which I hold in my hand is not confined to any class or
party, to any sect or denomination of our fellow-creatures; it
extends to the whole of the human race. We, as Co-operators,
as friends to our fellow men, do not come here as levellers; we
do not come here to deprive any human being of any of his or
her property, or of any sacred privilege which belongs to him
or her as a man or woman, or as an accountable agent. Nor
have we come here merely to advocate the greatest happiness of
the greatest number; but to advocate the greatest happiness of
all;--men, women, and children, throughout the universe. In
fact, when we consider how men are constituted, what is their pe-
culiar organization; and farther, that they are surrounded with
circumstances over which they have no control; when we con-
sider these things, we must say, as rational beings and as Chris-
tians, that we ought to look upon men of all ranks and
conditions, not with enmity, not with bitterness, but with
love; with that holy and benign spirit which actuated the
founder of our religion, and which also actuated the great
First Cause when he made us what we are. Is it not then
extraordinary that any of our fellow creatures should be found
to advocate principles in opposition to these? What can we
or they discover in ourselves to induce a belief that we are su-
perior creatures to any other portion of the human race; that
we ought to be filled with knowledge, to have our intellec-
tual powers cultivated, and enjoy all the advantages of Di-
vine Providence, in the food we eat, the raiment we wear,
and the habitations in which we dwell, saying to others who
are less favoured, "Stand aside, for we are holier than
thou?" If it could be proved that lord and peasant, bond
and free, were natural and necessary distinctions, then,
indeed, I would admit that one portion of the community
should not enjoy the pleasures of independence, the blessings
of knowledge, the benefits of Divine Providence,-in fact,
none of the pleasures which their natures are capable of en-
joying. But this is inconceivable, and it is therefore one of
the fundamental principles of co-operation to embrace all
ranks and conditions of men. This is the object of the reso-
lution which I hold in my hand :-" That the paramount
object of all our social arrangements should be to add, by
every combination of means, to the happiness of every mem-
20
+
ber of the conmunity; and to abstract the least possible from
his personal independence, instead of that which has hitherto
been our mistaken policy, to keep in ignorance, and thus de-
stroy the happiness of the many in order to increase and
most injuriously administer to the luxuries of the few.".
How is it that men have acted so opposite to these princi-
ples? It arises in this country from the feudal system. From
that military state which was the foundation of the feudal
system, we may trace all the existing distinctions between
man and man, and discover how it is that for centuries one
class of men have been incessantly striving to pull down
another. Need you be told, that when William the Conque-
ror came over here, he divided the land among his chieftains,
and that these in their turn divided them amongst the soldiers
who were dependant upon them? Need you be told, that
afterwards, in consequence of the Crusades and other cir-
cumstances, these lands were transferred into the hands of
other individuals, still, however, of the aristocratic party;
and that they have from that time perpetuated the descent of
the land in their own families by the law of primogeniture
and other legislative measures? This has given them an
almost exclusive enjoyment of the bounties of Providence,
and has produced the worst evils in society at large. But
this state of things must not-cannot continue. If we believe
in an all-ruling Providence-if we believe that men are the
creatures of circumstances-and that we can find out the
means by which the unfavourable circumstances in which
men have been placed can be altered, and their character
raised, as it were, from human to divine; if we believe these
things, then we must see most plainly that the present con-
dition of society cannot remain. The reverend gentleman
then illustrated the doctrine of the influence of circumstances
on the human character, by referring to the diversified cus-
toms and habits of the various inhabitants of the globe.
These were the result of circumstances, and while the circum-
stances remained unchanged, the human character would
continue as it was. He then continued:-But in judging of
our own state of society, men are apt-teo apt-to conclude
it is good, merely because they find that others which differ
from it are bad. They pronounce our institutions to be
correct, because they find others from which it differs to be
incorrect. But let us enquire whether we have not some
absurd and mischevious customs and institutions among our-
selves; whether, in fact, the same errors with regard to social
science and enjoyment are not here also. If you do this, rest
assured you will come to the conclusion, that no state of so-
ciety can be more unnatural than ours,—a state of society
in which the labourers, who produce every thing, are in a
state of abject poverty; and where the idlers who do nothing
21
either mental or physical, are, without any fault of their own,
-enjoying all the bounties of Providence. But we have
nothing more to do than change the unfavourable circum-
stances in which men are placed; to allow them to act up to
the dictates of their nature, when they will love each other
as brethren, and thus realise the fundamental principle of all
sound philosophy and religion. Hitherto we have contented
ourselves with teaching; but men cannot be changed by
precept merely they must have institutions adapted for the
purpose. And these are communities, which will remove all
temptations to crime, and afford every inducement to virtue.
Can there, then, be a more holy cause than this; and is it not
truly astonishing that we have not more ministers of religion
coming forward to promote its interests? I love the minis-
ters of all sects and denominations, and wish most sincerely,
that all of them would unite to preach our doctrines. They
would thus do more for the spread of truth than they can
possibly do by all other teaching.
Mr. WIGG, delegate from the Kingsland Society, seconded
the resolution, and spoke as follows:-Sir, Having been in
the co-operative world for some years, labouring in the good
cause, when I could scarcely recognize a fellow workman
who understood his principles, it gives me peculiar pleasure
to witness an assembly like this listening to my present fellow
labourers-
Oh! happiness, thou pleasing charm,
Where is thy substance found?
Incessant sought by every tribe,
Through earth's capacious round.
Where is this object to be attained? In the happiness of the
greatest number, say some of our friends :-"the happiness of
the greatest number, exclaims the sage philosopher and the
profound politician; but " THE HAPPINESS OF ALL," say we, and
our resolution, and the philanthropic founder of the new sys-
tem. And if the system did not make the most ample pro-
vision for this, I should hold it to be most imperfeet and
defective. The great end of society is to protect those who
are not able to protect themselves. It has been said, that
men in a state of barbarism are in some respects possessed of
more liberty than those in a state of civilization, inasmuch as
they are not bound by any human laws. The herbage of the
earth, the trees with their foliage and plentiful fruit, are free
for all without distinction. The birds that wing their way
through the air-the animals that roam upon the earth-the
fishes of the waters, are all at their command, and free for their
use; while in England-happy England-we are pestered
with game laws and property laws of every description; and
în various places we are gratified with placards, informing
the excluded that man-traps and spring guns are placed to
keep them off. Why, my friends, the squirrel is allowed to
22
crack nuts, and the worms to riot luxuriously in the earth:
"the foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but
the son of man hath not where to lay his head." Man in a
savage state, however, has wants which he is unable to sup-
ply with certainty or regularity. He has a very partial know-
ledge of language, and a still more imperfect knowledge of
chemistry of the peculiar properties of the materials which
lie scattered around him, and the purposes to which they may
be applied. He has no knowledge of mechanical skill, and is
consequently very weak. He knows not the causes of the
various phenomena which he observes, and is therefore very
superstitious. He has no knowledge of the primary laws of
human nature, and consequently knows not how to treat a
fellow being. He is selfish, vicious, vindictive, and destructive.
Now, the great object of society is to remove those evils to
which man is subject in a state of barbarism, without detract-
ing from the freedom of the expression of his opinion; indeed,
without infringing his freedom in any respect. If this, then,
be the great object of society, how is it that it has not yet
been accomplished? Our knowledge of chemical science is
most extensive and accurate. Our fellow countrymen have
investigated the properties of almost all the natural objects by
which they are surrounded; they have analysed the variegated
flower, disrobed it of its charms, and reduced it down to its
native elements. They have analysed the mineral kingdom,
and applied it to the most useful purposes of life. In me-
chanical science, they have increased their powers by at least
a hundred fold; so much, indeed, have they increased it,
that the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge" have
published, for the benefit of the working classes, a number
of tracts. These tracts contain a large number of facts, or
parts of facts (laughter) for the working classes to reason
upon; and I trust we shall make a proper use of the infor-
mation with which they have furnished us. Well, they tell
us that we have so far added to our powers of production,
that those in operation will produce as much as could be
produced by 28,118,164 men. We turn round, then, and
ask these useful knowledge gentlemen, how it is that po-
verty, with its concomitant, crime, so greatly abounds? With
the possession of these elements and means of creating
wealth, the people are in a state of poverty, want, and bar-
barism. How, I again ask, is this? It matters not how
much knowledge we may have; it matters not that a few
may be able to marshal the stars, count their numbers, and
give them names, if we, the great body of the people, are to
be left in poverty and degradation. Many schemes, it is
true, have been devised-merely from necessity, to still the
clamours of the people-to mitigate the evils of this state of
things; but what are they worth? Some say, you must
66
*
23
emigrate to the colonies or some other place. We ask the
Society for Diffusing Knowledge, what we shall gain by
going to the colonies? They answer, "You will gain land;"
and to a working man this is a tempting bait. But we ask
again, why cannot we obtain in this country what you pro-
pose to confer upon us in Canada or elsewhere? We state
upon the authority of Parliamentary documents, that there
are in the United Kingdom 15,000,000 of acres of uncultiva-
ted land, capable of cultivation; and we again ask, why are
we to be sent to Canada to obtain that which so plentifully
exists here? Every man of common sense must be imme-
diately convinced that such a scheme is the extreme of mad-
ness or folly; and some will be likely to think that it has
been proposed only to divert our minds from the cause of the
present system of exclusion and injustice.
It shall be my business, in the remarks I am about to make,
to point out what I conceive to be the cause of the evils under
which we now 66
groan, being burdened." It is the cause
that we should be solicitous to ascertain, for unless this know-
ledge be attained, we may talk till doomsday, and never find
a remedy. This cause, then, I conceive to be individuality
in all our pursuits. In the present state of society, each in-
dividual is seeking his own individual interest, in his own
way, altogether independent of the co-operation of his neigh-
bour. This I shall endeavour to elucidate, as the real cause
of the existing and past distress in society. I shall then
shew, that the system recommended by Mr. Owen will have
the effect of destroying, and also of preventing the recur-
rence of, these evils.
The present system gives an injurious direction to all the fa-
culties of man, both in the production of wealth and in the pur-
suit of happiness. The new system will give the most bene-
ficial direction to all the faculties of man. Instead of making
him a narrow-minded and selfish being, it will make him the
most open-hearted, benevolent, and beneficent being. It
will give him to see and feel that the only way to seek and
secure his own happiness is to seek it in connection with
the happiness of his fellow men. The Society for the Diffu-
sion of Useful Knowledge has told us, that in a savage state
there is no appropriation of land; and that if there had been
no appropriation of land, there could have been no security
for property, and we should therefore have continued in a
state of barbarism. Now, I grant all these facts. Had there been
no appropriation of land, there could have been no security
for the labour expended on the land; and under such circuin-
stances it is is obvious we must have remained in a state of
barbarism. But to avoid that, there was no necessity for an
individual appropriation of land; and that, indeed, is the
root of the great evil. Had our forefathers been as well ac-
?
1
21
+
-
quainted with the science of society as we are, they would
never have made an individual appropriation of the soil. On
the contrary, they would have formed men into communities
of moderate extent, and then have appropriated the land as the
joint property of each respective community. By such an ar-
rangement the interest of each individual would have been
identified with the interest of all, and the desire of happiness,
and the means of producing wealth, would have received the
best direction. Under the present system, on the contrary, in
those cases where nature has been more bountiful in the dispo-
sition of her gifts, the possessors of them have grasped at every
thing within their reach, reckless of the consequences devolved
upon those who are weaker or more ignorant than themselves.
Having furnished themselves with the means of doing so, they
took possession of the soil; and those excluded from it, having
no other means of supporting themselves, became servants to
the rest. Hence arose the system of rent, by which a class of
society is enabled to live without labour; taking part of the
produce of the labour of others, without giving any equiva
lent in return. The possessors of the soil, however, soon found
that it would produce little without labour; and they were
compelled to have recourse to the most tyrannical laws to ex-
tort the labour they required. At that time men had not en-
larged their powers of action by means of mechanical science.
Mechanical science has so greatly increased, however, for the
manufacture of almost every article of commerce, that the
mode of doing business has become completely changed. Men
may now be seen going about in every town and village
throughout the kingdom, begging and praying for work. Let
the shoemaker ask for employment, and he is told by the master,
who points to his well-filled shelves, that his shop is well
stocked, and he has no trade. Let the wheelwright apply for
work to the coachmaker, and he tells him he has none to give.
Thus it is with all trades-from the humblest to the highest.
We have much to learn in this respect; and nothing but the
system of co-operation will cure the evil. The facts which I
have stated will prove the correctness of my observation, that
competition creates misery amongst all classes, but admits not
of the happiness of any one person, in our large and extensive
community. Are not the higher orders in jeopardy every hour?
Do they not feel alarmed at their present position in the esti-
mation of the minds of the honest, industrious, and hard-work-
ing classes? Have they not been barricading their mansions,
arming their domestics, and calling in the aid of the constabu-
lary force; and yet, notwithstanding all these precautions,
crime, anarchy, and confusion, threaten them from every quar-
ter, that they cry out in their misery and distress, "What shall
we do to be saved?" Co-operation will not only benefit the
working classes, but very materially improve the condition of
25
the aristocracy-and even of the Royal Family and the King
himself! It will not provide for the sovereign merely, but for
the sovereign's children, down to the third and fourth genera-
tion. The system now carried on, has not only operated as a
curb upon honest industry, but the progress of civilization has
been retarded in every possible point of view. If his Majesty's
Ministers manifest a desire to abolish slavery, up start the slave-
owners of the West Indies, and cry out, there would be an end.
to the power of the mother country over her colonial territo-
ries! When the emancipation of the Catholics was brought
forward, as a legislative enactment, up jumped the Bishops,
alarmed at the prospect of the termination of their episcopal,
sway, and the loss of what, if possible, they considered of more
value and importance-the loaves and fishes! When a law
was about being enacted to permit the opening of new beer
shops, under certain wise and salutary restrictions, for the sale of
pure and genuine beer, wholesome malt and hops, the publicans
besieged the ministers to prohibit the public from having a
pure and healthful beverage, and to compel them to drink their
liquid poison, as well at the expence of their constitution as
the sacrifice of their morals. Now, mark the piety of that dis-
interested and moral prelate, the Bishop of Bath and Wells.
He violently exclaimed against the little beer shops-upon the
ground of their engendering immorality amongst the working
classes, when he had no objection to let the gin-shops remain
open, enticing the unwary and tempting the weak, till eleven
and twelve o'clock at night. This he winked at! So much
for his notions of morality! This is the natural consequence
of the present system, and the want of the principle of co- -ope-
ration. When each party having separate interests to promote,
are both pulling different ways, such is the natural result.
This system has given rise to circumstances which have made
men thieves, rogues, knaves, highwaymen, and housebreakers;
and these classes of culprits have given rise to lawyers,
judges, commissioners, magistrates, thief-catchers, and jail-
ers-and though last not least, to Jack Ketch himself, to put
people to death for their crimes. Now, with respect to the
late Special Commissions which were sent to various parts of
the kingdom, to try certain offenders for crimes of considerable
magnitude--what, I will ask, has society gained, through
the medium of those exertions of the Government, in the way
of moral good? Nothing. These men were delivered over to
transportation and death, both of which they would have es-
caped, as well as their causes, had a system of co-operation
been in existence, and all men had felt that they belonged to
one family, and that they had but one interest in common
with all. Our business is to do justice to all men ; and for the
sake of humanity, I call upon the intelligent and enlight-
ened of all classes, to place the poor and needy in a more.
D
+
26
favourable position than they are in at present. It is our
intention to have an entirely new order of circumstances
-to secure the possessions of the rich and affluent, but, above
all, the happiness, well-being, and prosperity, of the industrious
classes. Now, I ask, with such objects and intentions-
which none can condemn--who can be against us? None, I
reply, but those of narrow minds, who feel alarmed that any
change might better our condition at their expence. I trust,
therefore, that as our opponents will not be numerous, they
will be powerless to thwart us in the great work we hope to
achieve. Within the last few years, the working classes have
had some few secrets revealed to them-their eyes have been
opened, and the veil of obscurity, which has long shrouded their
vision, has, happily for them, been removed. They now per-
ceive that crime and misery are not hereditary. They see that
they produce every thing that adds to the comfort and luxury
enjoyed by the great; the delicacies of their tables-the furni-
ture of their mansions-all, all, are produced by the working
classes! The shirt of the King and the jacket of the pauper,
are the "handy work" of the working classes! The brilliant
diadem which glitters on the monarch's brow-every cannon
in the British navy-every button upon the sailor's coat-and
every feather in the soldier's cap, are produced by the much
abused, long suffering, working classes! Why, then, are the
working classes looked upon and designated as the "lower
orders?”—as a set of beings beneath the notice or commisera-
tion (when in distress and destitution,) by those whom fortune
has placed above them? I will briefly tell you It is simply
because they are born of poor (but honest) parents, who had
not the means to educate them-whose physical powers had
been trained to the production of wealth for the rich and
affluent, and whose mental powers had been shamefully
neglected for the basest of all purposes-party purposes. They
have, therefore, been made the dupes of every party, both in
and out of power, to the injury of their morals and the degra-
dation of their characte. You must not, my friends, succumb
to the powers that be, and fight for those who are un-
willing to recognise you as intelligent beings in the same scale
as themselves. Whatever may be the character of the working
classes generally, there are many splendid examples amongst
them of integrity and moral worth, worthy the imitation of
their superiors in point of rank, but infinitely their inferiors in
a moral and religious point of view. From this class of so-
ciety have sprung many of the most illustrious characters of
the present and past ages. What are all the pomps and vanities
of the world, when put into competition with the matchless
industry, intelligence, and perseverance of the working classes?
The money the working man lays out in necessaries is his own,
earned by the sweat of his brow; but the money laid out by
-
•
27
others is what they are but seldom entitled to, it having come
into their possession by other means, and through other exer-
tions, than their own. The joint proprietorship of land is
adapted to the most beneficial end. According to the system
of Mr. Owen, it not only secures to every individual the
possession and enjoyment of his physical, but also of his
mental powers. It excludes every thing that is injurious to.all
classes of society. I feel assured, that the prosperity and
happiness of man increases, in proportion as his faculties are
cultivated. In all our pursuits, we are endeavouring to acquire
that which is good in itself. The system which I recommend,
and which has the purest code of morals for its foundation,
would be hailed, when universally understood, as the greatest
boon ever conferred upon mankind. Mr. WIGG concluded by
Upon resuming his seat, the
seconding the resolution.
audience rose and loudly cheered him.
#
The resolution was then put from the chair, and carried
unanimously. It was as follows:-"That_the paramount
object of all our social arrangements should be to add, by
every combination of means, to the happiness of every mem-
ber of the community; and to abstract the least possible
from his personal independence-instead of that which bas
hitherto been our mistaken policy, to keep in ignorance, and
thus destroy the happiness of the many, in order to increase
and most injuriously administer to the luxuries of the few."
Mr. JOSEPH SMITH, (a delegate from Manchester) in rising
to propose the third Resolution, spoke as follows:-I hold
in my hand a motion, which I feel no hesitation in submitting
to the meeting, feeling assured that it will meet with its cor-
dial approbation. I hope the apologies of former speakers,
for what they term their incapacity to address so highly
respectable and numerous a meeting, upon the subjects which
were to be brought before their notice, will suffice for me. I
will therefore not take up the time of the meeting by apolo-
gizing for my own inability upon the present occasion. I
have no other point to gain but truth-truth, for its own
sake, and that alone. Much has been said upon the business
which has brought us together, by those speakers who have
preceded me, and the subject-all important as it is-has
been by them nearly worn threadbare. Something far, very
far beyond individual property is the source of all our mise-
ries, and the foundation of those evils under which we labour.
If a proper and right education had been given to our gover-
nors, as well as to the working classes, they would not have
arrogated to themselves those characters they have now the
presumption to assume. Ignorance is the basis of every evil,
and of every vice, as well as of that degradation to which
the working classes have been so unjustly subjected. Out
of evil originates individual property, and from out of indi-
D 2
28
vidual property fear. It is clear, that after we have imbibed
a correct knowledge of the evils which are engendered by
ignorance, we cannot fail to succeed in the efforts we are now
making to emancipate ourselves. The happiness of mankind
wholly depends upon the proper and correct cultivation of
their moral, physical, and intellectual faculties. The basis
of the future happiness, prosperity, and welfare of men,
depends upon this one thing needful. One great object,
which we ever ought to bear in mind, is the universal
diffusion of truths; for they are our most formidable
weapons in destroying that link of error by which society is
now held together. That man who possesses innate charity,
cannot have an ill-feeling towards any of his fellow-men. I
will now just touch upon a few of the points which have
been so ably noticed before. (Mr. Smith then entered some-
what fully into the subject of machinery, and maintained that
its effects were seriously injurious to all-not less so to
the consumer than to the working man.) The system which I
recommend is this-"Every man for every man-himself
included." If we could but get a fair representation in par-
liament, our interests advocated, and the evils we endure fairly
placed before the legislature, our cause, I fearlessly predict,
would be successful. But some ask, how is this to be done?
I reply, Look at our numbers, our strength, and our re-
sources; we have only to will it, and to have it.
Some may
say, we are not yet prepared for such a change; but I can
tell you, my friends, that if we are not prepared for it now,
the sooner we are so prepared the better. I ask, in the first
place, what are the requisites for the formation of an inci-
pient community? We possess them; and all now to be
ascertained is, how to carry our inteutions into effect. The
words of the resolution are, that "the combined and well-
directed efforts of every individual shall be made to contri-
bute to the happiness of all, where mutual affection and the
pursuit of truth shall form the basis of their education, and
where every arrangement shall harmonize with the laws of
human nature." We have not only all the requisites, but all
the powers, to carry this resolution into full operation. One
and all of us say we are tired and disgusted with our pre-
sent state; we will therefore forthwith step forward, `and
commence an incipient community. Can you be more
poverty-stricken than you are now? No; it is impossible.
Public opinion is getting more favourable to a change of some
sort; the change that we contemplate would be a change
from misery and degradation to truth and happiness (Loud
cheers). If the working classes rossess the means, why
should we delay the time for the consummation of that event
we all so ardently desire? We have at last found out that
which philosophers have been so long in search of, but in
A
•
29
vain; namely, the philosopher's stone; which is neither more
nor less than the accomplishment of that of which I am the
humble, though warm and sincere, advocate. Now, we only
want moral courage to set to work in good earnest-a quali-
fication which we have not yet possessed. If a number of
individuals were to step boldly forward, and say, we are
determined to try this plan, and prove its efficacy," the suc-
cess which would crown their efforts would prove to the
world that we are no visionaries, but determined, active,
practical, and honest men. (Loud cheering.)
،،
Mr. PARE, of Birmingham, as representative of a society at
Oldbury, near Birmingham, rose to second the Resolution.
They had heard so much of the distress of the country, that
he would not trouble them with any farther detail of it. The
nation might be compared to a man afflicted with some vital
disease, the presence of which is denoted by many outward
symptoms. Every friend he meets begins to prescribe for him,
and each imagines he possesses the sovereign balm. But the
misfortune of it was, that these advice gratis physicians never
took the trouble of examining the true cause of the disease;
caught by some glaring symptom on the surface, they set
about healing it, whilst they left the canker-worm to pursue
its ravages within. (Cheers.) So it was with the national
disease; there were a thousand remedies proposed, but the
parties proposing them took but a superficial view of the evil,
and their nostrums were consequently inefficient. (Hear.)
He believed the causes of the present distressed state of the
millions lay much deeper than was imagined. The great
master evil of society, as at present existing, was the universal
competition which reigned in every department of life. In
the commercial and trading world, this was considerably ag-
gravated by the introduction of new scientific power.
The
great mass of the people were entirely dependent on their
labour for subsistence, But, in the present competitive sys-
tem, the labour market, as it was called, was frequently over-
stocked, and our fellow-creatures were treated in this respect
like butter or eggs, or any marketable commodity—the prices
were always rising and falling. On an average of years, there
was always a superabundance of labour in the market; and
machinery, under our present irrational arrangements, assisted
in producing this glut, and, consequently, in depreciating the
relative value of human labour. (Hear.) In the year 1792,
the machinery in existence in the United Kingdom was equal
to the labour of about ten millions of men; but, owing to the
improvements which had been made in the steam-engine, and
its application to all the leading branches of industry, together
with various other mechanical and scientific arrangements, it
was equal, in the year 1817, to the labour of two hundred
millions of men; and at the present time, according to the
D 3
30
calculations of the best statistical writers, which have been
confirmed by practical men, it is equal to the labour of at least
FOUR HUNDRED MILLIONS of active, stout, well-trained la-
bourers in the full vigour of manhood. (Hear, hear.) In the
aggregate, it was scarcely possible to contemplate the effects
of this amazing power, and he would therefore state that, in
one branch of manufacture alone-he meant the cotton trade,
-some spindles which used to revolve only fifty times in a
minute, now performed six, seven, and in some cases EIGHT
THOUSAND revolutions, in the same short space of time! In
one establishment in Manchester, there are 136,000 spindles
kept in incessant motion by steam power, by which they are
enabled to spin ONE MILLION Two Hundred THOUSAND
MILES (not yards) of cotton-thread per week!!! By other
machines, much more than this quantity is woven every week
into thread-lace. The weekly produce of this article, when
the machines are in full work, is about FOUR HUNDRED MIL-
LIONS OF MILES, or enough to encompass this earth ONE
HUNDRED AND SIXTY TIMES. (Hear, hear.) Now, this asto-
nishing amount of machinery must have an amazing influence
either for good or for evil on the working classes. It ought to
decrease their working hours, and increase their enjoyments;
but what was the fact? In all those trades in which machinery
had been most employed, the very reverse had taken place.
(Hear.) The Useful Knowledge Society had published a work
entitled "The Results of Machinery," to show that it had been
beneficial to the working classes. At the latter end of the
book, however, it was admitted that machinery occasionally
injured the workmen by producing a glut of commodities in
the market, aud thus causing the wages of labour to fall.
(Hear, hear.) He would take the liberty of reading an extract
or two to the meeting. "There is a glut of labourers," says
the Society, "in the market. If you (the labourers) continue
in the market of labour during this glut, your wages must fall.
What is the remedy? To go out of the market." (Loud
laughter.) "When wheat falls five shillings at Mark-lane,"
continues the Society, "the farmer receives a hint that the
supply is beyond the demand; he holds back for a few weeks,
and prices regain their former level. What enables the
farmer to hold back his corn? He has something to fall
back upon; he is not compelled to sell his corn that week
or that month-he is a capitalist. Endeavour to acquire the
same power yourselves: become capitalists." (Laughter.)
This Society (continued Mr. Pare) is most excessively kind,
and manifests a ludicrous desire to better the condition of the
working classes, by telling them to "become capitalists ;" but
they neglected one most important particular, and that is, to
tell them how they are to become such, and " hold back" their
31
"7
, 11
labour, with wages amounting to not more than, perhaps, five,
seven, or ten shillings a week-and out of this pittance to keep
a wife, and children, dependent on them for their "
daily
bread." The work thus proceeds, after telling the starving
artizans to "become capitalists" (loud laughter):-" When
there is too much labour in the market, and wages are low, do
not combine to raise wages, but go out of the market.
"No, no,” says this Knowledge Society, "don't combine to
raise wages, or we, and those moving in the same rank of life,
will have to pay more money for our coats and waistcoats, and
every other commodity which we require will be raised in
price, in proportion." This is certainly arguing the question
to some purpose; but, bear in mind, it is on the side of them-
selves only; leaving wholly out of the question the interests of
the working man. (Loud cheers.) I will read you one more
extract, and then dismiss the Useful Knowledge Society's
Results of Machinery : :-"When wages fall short by a
glut of labour, you not only continue to work, but you
work harder and thus you increase the evil. You have,
in too many cases, nothing but your labour for your sup-
port. We say to you, ‘Get something else; acquire something
to fall back upon. When there is a glut of labour, go at
once out of the market; become yourselves capitalists.'
On this mock mode of relief, put forth by the Useful Know-
ledge Society, for the evils inflicted on the labouring popula-
tion by the operation of machinery, he (Mr. Pare) would inake
but one remark; which was, that a greater insult could not
have been offered to the working classes of this great empire;
and, from the part he came, it was esteemed as such. (Lond
applause.) Froin the Useful Knowledge Society, he turned to
a large mass of the public who were looking for relief from a
Reform in our political institutions. No man appreciated more
than he did the benefits to be derived from this source; but he
warned the working classes not to deceive themselves. In
America, where perhaps the freest political institutions existed,
the workmen were daily being depressed in their circum-
stances, and throughout the States they were calling out for
some great change. If they would consult the working men's
Papers published in America, they would find what he stated
to be true. They were being ridden down by a commercial
aristocracy. In fact, in all ages, in all countries, and under
all forms of governments, the producing millions had ever been
the slaves of the unproducing few. (Cheers.) What, then, was
the remedy proposed by the co-operators? It was, that the
mass of the people should cease to sell their labour to others,
and employ it for their own benefit. They invited the work-
men to unite and form communities of mutual co-operation,
where they should work together for the mutual supply of all
their most indispensable wants, în the way of food, clothing,
32
:
!
dwellings, furniture, and education, for themselves and chil-
dren. Here the hand of the diligent would indeed make rich,
and the hope-nay, the certainty of reward, sweeten labour.
(Loud cheers.) The advantages to be derived from the forma-
tion of these happy abodes of peace and industry were so nu-
merous, that time would fail him barely to mention them: he
would content himself, therefore, with stating one result of
their combined exertions, as regarded the production of the
first necessary of life-bread. The cost of bread at present,
beside the requisite labour to produce it, was made up of car-
riage of manure from town to country, farmer's profit, carriage
of the corn from country to town, cornfactor's profit, miller's
profit, and baker's profit. The operation of all this was, that
for every sixpence which the poor man paid for bread, four-
pence at least was paid in the shape of unnecessary labour and
profits, all of which would be saved in a co-operative com-
munity, where the corn would be grown, ground into flour,
made into bread, and consumed, all within a few hundred
yards. (Hear, hear.) It would probably be asked, however,
how are the working classes, who have now barely sufficient
to support them, to get funds, purchase land, erect buildings,
machinery, etc. necessary for the formation of these communi.
ties? This was a very natural question, and would be an-
swered in particular by two intelligent working men from
Lancashire and Yorkshire, who would address the meeting,
and inform them how the workmen could permanently eman-
cipate themselves from their present wretched and pitiable
condition. Mr. Pare, after pointing out with much force the be
nefits which would be derived by a hearty and stedfast co-ope-
ration amongst the working classes, concluded by replying to
many objections which had been lately conjured up by the edi-
tors of some of the public papers, and by pamphleteers, in the
course of which he ridiculed the idea which had got abroad in
some quarters, that the co-operatives contemplated a division of
the wealth already in existence. No, no; they knew better than
this. It was true they wished equality; but then it was
"voluntary equality." (Cheers.) It was true they were level-
lers; but then they wished to level up, and not down. (Cheers.)
They knew well enough, that if all the wealth in existence
were to be equally divided to-morrow, so far from being bene-
ficial (if the present system of competition were to continue),
it would be highly injurious. (Hear.) They had no desire to
touch one particle of the wealth now existing; but they were
fully determined to establish new institutions, by which they
might create and retain fresh wealth for themselves. (Loud
cheers.) The resolution was then put and carried unanimously.
It was as follows:-"That the proposed system of co-opera-
tion in which the combined and well-directed efforts of every
individual shall be made to contribute to the happiness of all,
33
where mutual affection and the pursuit of truth shall form the
basis of their education, and where every arrangement shall
harmonize with the laws of human nature, is, therefore, in the
opinion of this meeting, worthy of the attention of every lover
of his species, and seems the only plan calculated to promote
permanent prosperity and happiness."
MR. WILLIAM CARSON, a Delegate from Wigan, in rising
to propose the fourth resolution, addressed the meeting to the
following effect :-An humble individual, like myself, coming
forward before this assembly, requires on my part, some apo-
logy; but I will wave that, and throw myself, with truth for
my guide, upon your good feeling. I appear here as the re-
presentative of a co-operative society, consisting of above three
thousand members (cheers); the whole of whom have put into
practice, and much good has been the result, that which has
been recommended here to-day. They have began to work
for themselves; and they have found, notwithstanding all that
has been said, against the beneficial effects of co-operation
amongst the working classes, they can now do better for them-
selves and for their families, than ever they did before under
the bondage of their masters. They have now an estate which
once belonged to a large cotton lord, and a mansion now...
turned into dwellings for the poor, for which they pay the
yearly rent of six hundred pounds. (Hear, hear,) Upon this
estate there are sixty cottages, which are all turned to a good
and profitable account. The large drawing-room of this cot-
ton lord, which was too extensive for the wants of the humble
mechanics, has been despoiled of its ornamental trappings, and
divided into two conveniently sized appartments. I can assure
you my friends, it is indeed a glorious sight to see these men
enjoying themselves during their leisure hours, by bodily recre-
ation and mental amusement, as well as the cotton lords by
whom they are surrounded. They are now placed in an inde-
pendant situation, morally as well as physically-and far, very
far, above want; their families are healthful and cheerful, their
bodies clothed, and their appetites satisfied by means of indus-
try and perseverance. They feel that they are working not
only for their brethren around them, but for themselves; and
all idea of poverty and wretchedness is banished from their
minds. And although these men pay the enormous sum of six
hundred a year for the premises they occupy, they have found
that notwithstanding all the complaints made by the manu-
facturers of no profit and little trade, they have no cause to
complain on this score. They have thus proved, that the com-
plaints of the master manufacturers were groundless, and only
made for the purpose of keeping down the wages of their men.
(Mr. Carson then exhibited various specimens of gown prints,
stockings, &c. manufactured by the Wigan co-operative society,
which called forth the warm approbation of the meeting.) The
34
1
·
co-operators were determined to get machinery themselves, and
turn mechanical power to their own account. They have done
so, and the specimens which I now exhibit to the notice of
this meeting, are the successful results of that determination.
The Political Economists, with Parson Malthus at their
head, wish what they term the surplus population of the
country to transport themselves to distant shores and foreign
climes. To these persons I would beg to give this piece of
advice:-Let them transport themselves,t hey are useless here,
and we can well do without them. What are the drones only
to be suffered to remain, and the bees only to be sent away?
He would answer no; (No, no, from all parts of the room.)
The drones who have hitherto lived upon the sweat of the poor
man's brow by the exertions of the industrious, and the labour
of the hard working, the labouring classes are determined shall
do so no longer. We intend not to take any thing away from
them, they may keep all that they possess, although the means
by which they inherited their property were unjust; but I can
tell them, that for the future the co-operatives will prevent the
drones from living in luxury and idleness upon their exertions.
(The speaker here instanced the good effects which have re-
sulted from the establishment of reading-rooms amongst the
working classes, and their beneficial tendency upon their habits
and morals). It is one of the rules of the co-operative socie-
ties not to suffer any one of its members to receive parochial
relief, they supported each other in sickness and distress, and
administered to their comforts with the feeling of brothers. I
stand here as a victim of these societies; and by what means,
I will endeavour briefly to explain to you. I have always
taken a most active part in the foundi ngof co-operative so-
cieties, which has called down upon my head the vengeance
and spite of the "Powers that be." I held a situation with a
highly respectable architect, employed by the commissioners
for building churches, amongst whom are several bishops and
others of the aristocracy. My discharge was forwarded to
me, "although having a wife and large family to maintain,"
because I had rendered myself obnoxious to the commissioners
by the active exertions I made in aid of co-operation. Upon
the architect appealing to the commissioners on my behalf,
telling them at the same time the situation in which I should
be placed if they were determined upon his discharging me,
they told him in reply, that I must be discharged, and they
would bear the responsibility. (Loud cries of shame, shame!)
Mr. CARSON here exhibited to the meeting several other spe-
cimens of the "handy-work" of the co-operators, amongst
which were several highly finished specimens of hardware,
and a literary work, written by a co-operative member, and
printed at a co-operative press, He then continued, I can
assure you there is scarcely an article that could be mentioned
35
which these co-operatives have not the means and machi-
nery to manufacture; every thing has been done by the pow-
erful, the rich, and the affluent, to do a lasting injury to
the working classes; but they have failed. For the future
we will take the advice of no man, nor of any set of men,
but of those only who have no interest, either present or re-
mote, in keeping down the labouring classes. I had almost
forgotten to mention that we have established a school-a co-
operative school (loud cheers), feeling convinced that with-
out knowledge there is no happiness.
no happiness. But that school has
been opposed, and by whom? By those who have done ill,
and are alarmed at the progress of knowledge amongst us.
Our aim is to make all happy; we wish not to take the pro-
perty from the rich, which they now possess, but to add to
the property of the poor and industrious, who have been so
shamefully neglected by those whose real interest it was to
succour and support them. (loud cheers.)
Mr. HIRST, a Delegate from Huddersfield, seconded the
resolution :-In rising to second the resolution which has
been so ably introduced to your notice by Mr. Carsons, the
delegate from Wigan, I feel myself, I confess, very peculiarly
circumstanced; for almost every topic has been commented
upon-and that, too, most ably, on the important business
upon which we are this day assembled together, leaving me
almost barren. This numerous and respectable meeting, in the
metropolis of the empire, is a most pleasing and gratifying sign.
of the times. There was a time-and that period has not long
passed by, when scarcely half a dozen persons could be found
to advocate the cause we are here assembled to promote: but
now we may truly say "the tables are turned," for we can
now number thousands amongst our society-our brotherly
society of co-operators. The resolution states, that “to ensure
so desirable and beneficial a change as the one contemplated
by co-operation, no exertion of our talents should be spared, or
the pursuit of honest and honourable means neglected." To
this doctrine I do, most warmly and sincerely, assent. There
is much truth in the following observation, which is embodied
in the resolution I hold in my hand:-" The establishing of
co-operative trading and manufacturing associations, have been
the means of peaceably uniting a great number of the indus-
trious classes, as well as greatly instrumental in promoting co-
operative knowledge." (Hear, hear.) Let me, therefore, in
the language of this resolution, respectfully urge on all engaged
in co-operative societies to renew their exertions, and embrace
every opportunity in promoting and extending their useful-
ness. I think, what I have just read to you, is a most
excellent sermon, and deserving your serious attention. I do
not think it necessary to enter into the subject of the great
benefits which have been derived from our system of co-opera-
36
tion, more especially after the many very good speeches you
have heard this day. Various have been the opinions hazarded
by all classes, as to the cause of all those miseries which have
so long afflicted the trading portion of the country. As regards
the operations of trade, it is true that many expedients have
been suggested to remedy the evils attendant upon the present
system-by political economists as well as by the Government;
but although every one of these suggestions have failed in their
intended effects, let us, in justice, give to those parties the
credit for possessing the conviction that they were right,
although they have since proved to be so decidedly wrong.
They never probed to the root of the evil-they went not half
far enough; and hence we may date the errors and mistakes
they all fell into. Now, with respect to the dreadful state of
trade, some tell you it is caused by machinery -others say it
is the East India monopoly-then there is a cry out against
the corn laws, and the poor laws, and half a hundred other
laws; till, at last, you lose yourselves, amidst these conflicting
statements, in endeavouring to hit upon the true one. I have
no hesitation in saying, that the newspapers-at least the ge-
nerality of them-advocate the cause of the rich against the
cause of the poor; and the public who read these newspapers,
imbibe as many different opinions as newspapers they read.
They, therefore, never arrive at the truth, but go on flounder-
ing in error. I deny that it is machinery which is the cause
of distress; but I will, with equal boldness, maintain, that it
is the ill-directed operations of that machinery. All I desire is, to
give a right direction to those operations; accomplish but that,
and all would then go on well. Competition may be mentioned
as one of the most baneful sources of all our misery. What has
destroyed our trade? Monopoly. What has been the cause of
the almost total end of profit in carrying on business? Mono-
poly. To monopoly and its concomitants, we may therefore
point as the great source of our evils. The whole system of trade
is now one great system of falsehood and fraud. Walk but
through the streets of any town in the kingdom, and what stares
you in the face at the windows of the shopkeepers? In one you
will find a notice to the effect, that "the stock of this shop
is selling off at prime cost." In another," the goods of this
concern are to be sold 20 per cent. under manufacturing
prices," while in a third, which I saw myself, a short time
ago, "the whole of this extensive stock selling off fifty per
cent. under prime cost!" (laughter.) What dependence
to be placed upon these announcements you are as good
judges as I am. They prove what I have just stated, that a
system of falsehood and fraud is openly carried on, to the
great and very serious injury of the fair and honest trader.
Such are the workings of this deceptive and ruinous system
-such is the unnatural manner in which trade and commerce
}
37
are now conducted. With respect to our imports and
exports, I think I shall be able to convince you that other
countries are very materially benefiting at the expence of this.
Our rulers and political economists appear to have been
all in the wrong, as will appear from the following deductions
and calculations, which may be relied upon for their correct-
ness-For instance, we will take the amount of labourers at
6,000,000, at the rate of wages 20s. per week, as was the case
20 years ago: 52 weeks would amount to 312,000,000l.;
take one-third of this for support, and there will remain
208,000,0001. to circulate in the country; and supposing this
amount to change hands, or circulate 10 times before it
appears in the shape of wages again, it would have made
returns to the amount of 2,080,000,0001. Allowing 10 per
cent. as the average of profit upon these returns, there would
appear a net income to the nation of 208,000,000l., arising
from the circulation of wages. But, as the matter now stands,
by the reduction of wages to half their former price, the
returns would be, as circulated above, only 520,000,0001.;
and allowing the same rate of profit, it would only produce to
the nation 52 millions, or a loss of 156 millions in the national
income, arising from the reduction of wages alone. By way
of further elucidation, and bringing the subject more plainly
to our comprehension, I have weighed a piece of cotton
goods, 22lbs, and I find that 20 years ago, this piece would
have left the country at 5s. 5d. per lb., that is 51. 19s. 2d. per
piece, and the cotton wool to make it from, would have cost
f2s. per lb. at that time; consequently it would leave 31, 15s. 2d.
or labour, profit, &c.; but at the present time, a piece of
cotton goods, of the same weight, would go out at 14d. ppr lb.
and the cotton wool come in at 6d per lb., or 22lbs. at
11s. 8d. and would go out at 11. 5. 8d., leaving for the labour
and profit 14s 8d, instead of 31. 15s. 2d. as formerly.
Thus, the labourer is compelled to do five times as much
work for the same amount of money. It will thus be seen,
that some new science-some new method to conduct the
affairs of the country, is essentially necessary to the well
being of every class. I can prove that it will only take one
forty-eighth part of what England can produce to pay all the
taxes, even according to their present unjust amount, and
keep us all as well as our forefathers were kept, into the bar-
gain. What then becomes of the other forty-seven parts?
Ask the unproductive classes-they can best tell you, for they
devour them. I considrer, as the resolution expresses, that in
dider to ensure a desirable and beneficial change in our con-
dition, we can only employ the means of co-operation. It
is the duty of every man (and to the working classes I more
particularly address myself), morally and politically to extend
by every means in his power, the universal usefulness of co-
E
/
38
operative societies. All we want, or at least one great object
which we wish to achieve, is to do away with the war, and
the bickerings, and the ill will, which has so long subsisted
between master and man. This object would be fully accom-
plished by the organization of co-operative societies. (Mr.
Hirst here exhibited to the meeting several specimens of
handkerchiefs, flannels, gown prints, Britannia metal tea-pots,
and some beautifully finished knives, &c. manufactured by
various co-operative societies in the North of England.) I have
now upon my back, (said he,) a co-operative shirt, and here's
a co-operative coat, and here's a co-operative waistcoat. (Loud
laughter.) All my friends have co-operative clothes; and,
for my own part, I would sooner go without clothes at all,
than be clothed in any other way; so strong an advocate am I
for co-operation. It has hitherto, and I am sorry tɔ say it,
been the object of certain persons to keep the females in the
back-ground, but such is not the case with the members of
our body; we learn from scripture "it is not good that man
should be alone, I will make him an help meet for him." Some
call the women cyphers, but a cypher with the addition
of one, as you all know, makes ten-and it would take
hundreds of London men to make one good co-operative wo-
man (loud laughter). Let me now urge upon you to be
united-be firmly determined in a good cause as ours is, and
it must prosper; although we were deserted in the hour of need.
Mr.Carpenter deserted us, (loud murmurs, and cries of no, no-
no such thing,)" The Trades Free Press" deserted us, "The
Voice of the People" deserted us-and we were thus left with-
out any advocates to support our cause. But we have now
got a press of our own (loud cheers), a co-operative press, and
I trust we shall find it succeed without the aid of those who
have left us. Although Mr. Owen and I on scriptural subjects
are very widely opposed to each other, yet I give him the
right hand of fellowship in the truest sincerity. All sectarianism
should instantly cease-let us be united heart and soul, and our
glorious cause must ultimately triumph, notwithstanding all
the impediments thrown in its way by our adversaries. In the
town of Bolton, to mention the word co-operative, would have
been almost considered treasonable; I however visited the
town some time since, for the purpose of giving a lecture on
the benefits and advantages to be derived from the co-operative
system. But knowing the feelings of the persons there resi-
dent, and the prejudices existing in their minds against co.
operation, I was obliged to act very cautiously in my mode of
proceeding; for I knew that if I announced a co-operative
lecture, it would frighten away that audience which I wished
to enlighten. I therefore had recourse to a piece of deception,
which I think you will admit was excusable, to gain the end
which I so much desired. I issued a notice to the following ef-
*
39
+
fect, leaving out, you must bear in mind, the word co-operative
altogether: (laughter)—" A lecture will be given in the as-
sembly room of this town, on the immoral condition of the
working classes, and the best ineans of remedying it." The
result was as I expected, the assembly room was crammed to
suffocation, and hundreds were turned away from the doors for
want of room. Such was the effect my lecture had upon those
who attended, and such their conviction of the truths I ad-
duced in favor of co-operation, that I was beseiged the next
morning by several respectable inhabitants, to give a second
lecture they offering, at the same time, to hire the theatre for
that purpose. This I was obliged to decline, as I was engaged
to deliver a lecture at Stockport the same evening. Since that
period no less than six co-operative societies have been formed,
and are flourishing in Bolton. (Hear, hear) We co-operatives
can sleep in safety without locks, bolts, or bars, or even doors:
but if the present system goes on, we shall have nothing but
jails, and these, too, well filled. Let me now beseech the radi-
cals to cease from exciting the lower orders against the higher;
and all who are present at this meeting, to be quiet, peaceable,
and united. Let all the co-operatives in London be on their
guard against the divisions which will be attempted to be
created amongst them, by those to whose interests they are
opposed. I would not have a co-operator look merely to the
loaves and fishes,-we have all higher interests at stake than
the mere profits we derive from our industry. (Cheering).
S
A Gentleman (whose name we were informed was WALKER)
rose from the body of the room, and observed, that Mr. Hirst
had done great injustice to Mr. Carpenter, by stating that that
gentleman had deserted their cause; when the fact was, that
they had deserted Mr. Carpenter. "The Trades Free Press,"
ably as it was conducted, and advocating the rights and in-
terests of the working classes, was compelled to be abandoned
from the want of subscribers, while, at the same time, “The
Weekly Dispatch," with its dog-fights, cock-fights, and man-
fights, possessed a circulation of nearly thirty thousand weekly.
He rose to do justice to Mr. Carpenter, whom he thought had
been unfairly and most unjustifiably attacked. (Applause.)
Mr. HIRST rose for the purpose of explanation. He did not
intend to attack Mr. Carpenter, whom he had not seen till that
day, and whose writings and principles he had always warmly
admired.
I
Mr. CLEAVE thought that all must be filled with delight at
the cheering accounts they had that day heard of the progress
of co-operation throughout a great portion of the kingdom.
But he begged leave to correct the statement of Mr. Hirst, that
the principles of co-operation were not known in Bolton till
Mr. Hirst lectured there. Such was not the fact. The Rev.
Mr. Marriott had delivered lectures there two years before, and
K 2
40
works had been freely circulated in the town on that subject.
With respect to Mr. Carpenter and "The Trades Free Press,"
he begged leave to state, that that gentleman lost two hundred
pounds by the undertaking, before he abandoned it. He then
gave to the public unstamped co-operative knowledge in his
"Political Letter," which was suppressed by the strong arm of
Government, and Mr. Carpenter incarcerated within the walls
of a prison for endeavouring to circulate cheap knowledge
amongst the working classes. He then commenced "The Poli-
litical Magazine" (a work highly eulogized by Mr. Owen,
their Chairman,) which, to the everlasting shame of the work-
ing classes, be it spoken, had never paid him for paper and
print. (Shame, shame.)
Mr. HIRST, in reply to the observations of Mr. Cleave,
stated that he merely intended to remark, that no Co-operative
Society had been formed in Bolton before his visit to that place.
With respect to Mr. Carpenter, he had taken in his Magazine
from its commencement, and warmly admired the sentiments
that it promulgated. He thought, according to the existing in-
stitutions of the country, the Government was bound to pro-
secute him (hissing from all parts of the room) for selling his
unstamped Paper. (The hissing and groans became still louder,
and Mr. Hirst resumed his seat.)
vis
Mr. OWEN trusted that all they had heard that day on the
subject of the benificent principle of co-operation would be
deeply impressed upon their minds. Although much informa-
tion had been imparted to them, they had not heard of half of
the inestimable benefits which every man, woman, and child,
throughout the kingdom, would derive from co-operation ; and,
although the King, Lords, and Commons, were diametrically
opposed to the interests of the working classes, he would not
find fault with them as individuals; for it was the system
wherein the fault lay.
The fourth resolution was then put from the Chair, and
carried unanimously:-
!
"That to ensure so desirable and beneficial a change as the
one contemplated by co-operators, no exertion of talents, how-
ever humble, should be spared, or the pursuit of honest and
honourable means neglected; and as the establishing of co-
operative trading and manufacturing associations has been
the means of peaceably uniting a great number of the indus-
trious classes, as well as greatly instrumental in promoting
co-operative knowledge, this meeting respectfully urges ou all
engaged in them to renew their exertions, and embrace every
opportunity in promoting and extending their usefulness.'
>>
Upon the motion of the Rev. Dr. WADE, the meeting was
adjourned till Wednesday.
41
PRIVATE MEETING OF DELEGATES.
Monday Evening, April 23rd.
INSTITUTION OF THE INDUSTRIOUS CLasses.
MR. OWEN took the chair at the evening meeting of the de-
legates, but, after some conversation, it was unanimously re-
solved to adjourn till seven o'clock on Tuesday morning.
Letters, however, were read from Lord Boston, Leigh Hunt,
Esq. and others, containing general approvals of the objects of
the Congress. Mr. Owen then alluded to the projected esta-
blishment of co-operative schools, and said, that there was a
much greater difficulty in getting proper persons for teachers
than was generally imagined; the day schools would be
opened, it was expected, in a fortnight. The object was not
simply to afford instruction in the necessary branches of edu-
cation, but to give the infant subjects an entirely new charac-
ter. There were to be three schools; the first, for the recep-
tion of infants from fourteen months old; another to receive
them at the age of five or six and a third to receive them from
the age of eleven, and continue their education till they at-
tained maturity. Day scholars would be received, but the
grand design was to take children entirely out of that sphere
of circumstances and prejudices, which had so unfavorable an
influence on the formation of character. Boarders, would,
therefore, be admitted, at the charge of two guineas a month,
payable in advance, for which they would be supplied with
food, lodging, and apparel. The object was not to realize
profit, but this scale he conceived, was the lowest for which the
plan could be effected, in that manner which would enable the
children to present a good and attractive appearance, and
thereby produce a favorable impression on those by whom
they might be observed. At whatever age children might be
admitted, they would first have to enter the infant school.-
It was then stated, that the fund required to fit up one of the
long rooms of the Institution for the purpose of an Infant
School was £800, only £70 of which had been yet sub-
scribed. Mr. Owen then observed, generally, that if the de-
legates would act in the spirit of united zeal, better encourage
ment to their united efforts would soon be presented, both
here, and in Scotland, and Ireland. They must appeal to go-
vernment, and, by exhibiting the benefits of the co-operative
system, endeavour to obtain its support. When the Reform
Bill was carried, government would not know what steps to
take, in consequence of the pressing exigencies of the people;
there was, however, no necessity that they should remain in
ignorance. Let a proper impression be made as to the advan-
tages of co-operation, which would remove wretchedness, and
E 3
42
4
spread universal happiness, and then it might be said to the
government, If you will not lead us right, we will leave you,
and lead ourselves. (Hear) The empire possessed quadruple
means of putting every subject in such a palace as that repre-
sented by the model, which some present had that evening
seen. This was not a visionary speculation. The system
was as perfect and demonstratable as the science of mathe-
matics. To realize the advantages it held out, government
should issue four or five millions of exchequer bills; and if
such a proposition were made, and sustained by public opinion,
government dare not refuse, for the very existence of govern-
ment now depended on public opinion. (Hear) Compliance
would also be procured, by the proposed measure being at once
calculated to relieve the legislature from the pressing difficul-
ties with which they were now surrounded; they would per-
ceive the means of certain relief at their command, and disco-
ver that their compliance would thus produce a benefit to
themselves. The reason why the system was so long in pro-
ducing an impression on the public mind, arose from the nar-
row instruction which people generally received; but now
they might learn how to improve society, and find in the
principles of co-operation the means of forming a perfect cha-
racter. The simplicity of this system was such that it might be
taught to any infant. Mr. Owen stated,that he had many years
back developed his plan to Loids Liverpool and Sidmouth,
who were satisfied as to its excellence and practicability, and
who assured him that they would act on it as soon as public
opinion should be sensible of its merits. He had expected to
make a more rapid progress; but the barriers which had hi-
therto interposed were now being removed. The time when the
"sword should be beaten into a plough share, and the spear
into a pruning hook, and every man sit in peace under his own
vine and fig tree," was coming to pass, and the highest hopes
might now be entertained.
ADJOURNED MEETING OF DELEGATES.
Tuesday Morning, Seven o'clock.
MR. OWEN having been called to the Chair,
MR. PARE read the minutes of the previous day's proceed-
ings.
MR. FINCH, of Liverpool, remarked, that as some observa-
tions had been made on the inaccuracy of the report of the pro-
ceedings of the last congress, it would be desirable that per-
sons should be appointed to examine that report, and correct
any errors that might be discovered. He, therefore, moved
that Messrs. Hirst, Thompson, and Marriott be appointed a
committee for that purpose.
C
43
MR. SKEVINGTON, of Loughborough, seconded the motion,
which was carried unanimously.
Mr. CARSON moved that Messrs. Finch, Entim, Manby, and
M'Connel be appointed a coinmittee to examine the letters ad-
dressed to the Congress, and to draw out a statistical table
of replies to the questions put to the societies.
MR. POPE, of London, seconded the motion, which was
carried.
EXCHANGE LABOUR BANK.
MR. OWEN then observed, that to render their operations ef-
fective, money, which formed the sinews of war, was requisite
He then submitted a report containing a proposal for fa-
cilitating and securing the exchange of labour for equal labour.
The matter it contained was of the greatest importance, and
would therefore require the most earnest attention of the dele-
gates
MR. PARE then read the report proposed by Mr. Owen,
developing the manner in which the Exchange Labo ur Bank
Establishment was to be carried into effect, with all the practi-
cal arrangements necessary thereto, as intended to be adopted
by him at the Institution of the Industrious Classes, Gray's Inn
Road, so soon as funds were secured, and an understanding of
the principles sufficiently diffused among the co-operators.
MR. OWEN then read some extracts from his Report to the
county of New Lanark, bearing upon the same subject, and
concluded by remarking, that the Report was written in the
year 1819, and that, therefore, although Mr. Gray, of Edin ·
burgh, might think he was entitled to claim the originality of
the plan developed in his "Social System," had he ever seen
the "Report" he would have found he had been anticipated.
MR. THOMPSON, of Cork, thought it should not be assumed
that Mr. Gray had not seen the Report, beeause that involved
a censure upon him. It was the duty of every man who pro-
posed any measure to ameliorate the moral or political condi-
tion of the human race to read what had previously been pub-
lished upon the subject. With reference to banks of exchange
themselves, he felt bound to say, that although what had been
read was good and valuable in itself, there did not appear to
be, in his mind, any thing practicable in it.
MR. PARE thought this conversation irrelevant. It was
quite immaterial whether Mr. Gray had seen Mr. Owen's Re-
port or not, though there was little doubt but he had seen it.
MR. PARE then proceeded to read the following extracts
from the "New York Free Enquirer," for the purpose of
shewing the operations and results of the system of exchanging
labour for labour in some parts of America.
"C
Spring Hill, Dec. 19, 1830.
"About five years since, Mrs. Charity Rotch, of the Society
of Friends, at her decease, gave the interest of 22,000 dollars
+
44
to be appropriated to the establishment of a school for the
benefit of poor children.
"In January, 1828, Hezekiah Camp, of New York, William
G. Macy, of Nantucket, James Bayliss, of New York, and Ed-
ward Dunn, of Philadelphia, some of whom had experienced
the failure of three communities to which they had belonged,
on the dissolution of the Kendal community, not discouraged
by failures, which they perceived were caused by the want of
knowledge, applied to and contracted with the trustees of the
said fund to take under their care twenty-five children; to
feed and clothe them, to teach them the conimon rudiments
of education, and to give to the females a knowledge of house-
wifery generally, and to the boys a knowledge of practical
agriculture. They were to spend three hours per day in
school in the warm weather, and four in the cold season ;
they might be required to work eight hours per day, the pro-
ceeds of which the company were to receive, together with
the school-fund, amounting to one thousand dollars per year.
"The company began their operations with a capital of one
thousand dollars, with which they stocked the farm, purchased
farming utensils, furniture, bedding, &c.
"I have been particular in stating these details, because it is
a common impression that these arrangements require a large
capital; and while this impression remains, the independence
of the mass will depend on capitalists, whose interest (as most
of them view it) is to keep the mass in servitude.
"At the expiration of the first year, on balancing accounts
with the company, they perceived that these children, who
were between ten and sixteeu years of age, aided by these
four adults, had supported themselves within two hundred
dollars, leaving a surplus of 800 dollars, of the fund so gene-
rously intended for their benefit. Let it be observed, that this
was done by agriculture alone, a business which is by far
more depressed than trades or manufactures; this shows that
when legislators in this republic begin to learn the rights of
citizens. and secure to each the possession of the soil, that
even children destitute of almost every thing else, may render
themselves independent of their labour; but while the soil of
the country is monopolised and controlied by those who make
no use of it, poor children, destitute of friends and of interest,
will continue to be the victims of this legal barbarism.
"It was in the fifth month of the second year that I visited
the establishment, and beheld a demonstration of the influence
of surrounding circumstances upon the characters of children,
which, although I had reflected and observed much on the
subject, both surprised and delighted me. I saw children who,
a little more than a year before, were destitute orphans, and
who, had they been differently circumstanced, might have been
forced from every endearing object, and shut np in a house of
45
correction, a bridewell, a house of refuge, or some other mo-
nument of human ignorance, now living as happy as they
could well be; directed by intelligent friends, who acted as be-
nevolent guides, rather than as mercenary masters, and who
consulted the present and future happiness of these children
equally with their own.
"I saw young females who, had they been in the cities, would
have been compelled to waste away the bloom of life in unre-
mitting toil at their needles for 12 1-2 cents per day, or, per-
haps, to be miserable dependents on the "societies for the
encouragement of domestics," and to drag out a monotonous
life of enervating servitude in the kitchens of the rich, or a
scanty pittance just sufficient to keep up the working power.
I saw them here comparatively independent, and daily acquir-
ing an education which would place them beyond the vain
ambition of expensive show, which would enable them to sup-
ply their own wants and conduct their own affairs, and conse-
quently place them beyond the humiliation and distress
endured by poor, but respectable females in our cities. As a
proof of this, it has been a matter of complaint in the neigh-
bourhood, that “since this school commenced, no girls could
be obtained to do kitchen work."
4
"Although about seventeen months ago they were (with few
exceptions) destitute of artificial learning, I now saw them go
through their exercises in reading, writing, arithmetic, and
grammar, with accuracy and ease; their language, in common
conversation, was more critically correct than that of adults
in general, and their common remarks bespoke the exercise of
their reason. The utmost confidence and good feeling between
pupils and teachers was strikingly evident, although the latter
assured me that they had laboured as intensely to annihilate
the feeling of fear in their pupils, as the teachers of the old
school generally do to excite it. The boys had acquired a
practical knowledge of agriculture generally, and the girls of
housewifery and domestic economy, and each went to his
ploughing, planting, or reaping, and to her cooking, spinning,
&c., with a cheerful promptness and efficient energy which de-
monstrated what may be done, when the heart and the hand
work together. These results, (to my mind,) speak sufficiently
for the great truths developed by Robert Owen, and for the in-
telligence, perseverance, and benevolence of the individuals
who have, in honest adherence to those truths, thus devoted
themselves to this experiment for human good.
MR. OWEN remarked, in reference to something said about
the state of society in America, that it was difficult for females
in Philadelphia, labouring twelve hours together, to obtain
sixpence a day; and to shew the facilities of learning a trade,
when taught by scientific principles, he remarked that Joseph
Warrington, the person mentioned in the Free Enquirer, and
""
;
46
#
who was a bricklayer and musician, applied to a person who
worked at the trade of shoemaking upon the principles of sci-
ence, and in two days he was able to cut out a pair of shoes,
andmake every part of them himself.
MR. THOMPSON wished to know whether the persons con-
ducting these schools or establishments were paid; and if so,
whether out of the labour of the children, or out of the fund of
20,000 dollars That was a very important thing to ascertain;
because the result would show whether such establishments
could support themselves out of the labour of children between
the ages of seven and fifteen years. That problem was about
being solved, and he believed in the affirmative; but still it
was of importance to know how the fact stood in this particu-
lar case in America.
Mr. OWEN said he knew nothing more of this case than the
other persons who had heard the letter read; but they had not
yet to learn that children of the age referred to could support.
themselves by their labour. But why should they perplex
themselves about such trifling things as these? He was ready
to prove, nay, he believed they knew, that they possessed the
means to create as much wealth as they could possibly desire.
The knowledge they now possessed, aided by machinery, were
sufficient, not only to put all the inhabitants of this country
into a condition in which they would have a superfluity of
every thing around them, but also-if those powers were pro-
perly directed-to support in comfort and affluence the whole
population of the earth. What, in fact, could they want, that
they did not now possess? They had the means of creating
an abundance of all kinds of wealth-of giving to every child
the most intelligent and virtuous character-of creating wealth
to any extent that they might want it—and, in a word, of
giving to all men all things in the greatest abundance. Having
this prospect before them, and that upon no uncertain foun-
dation, but upon the basis of science, surely they would no
longer waste their time in disputes and differences about this or
that; and, above all, when they recollected that thousands
were starving. He then proceeded to state that the plain busi-
ness they had to attend to, was to ascertain from the govern-
ment whether they would adopt the system which they (the
delegates) had to propose; and then, if they would not, it
would be their duty immediately to commence it for themselves.
It had been objected, that they should not trouble them-
selves about the government; but forty years' experience had
convinced him that no part of the new system could be carried
into effect in conjunction with any part of the old system.
That being the case, there must either be a peaceable taking
down, or a violent overthrow of the old system; and as they
all desired the former, he should, by and by, propose that au
47
address to the governments of Europe and America be adopted
by the Congress.
Mr. STYLES then moved the adoption of the paper which
had been read, on the subject of labour exchanges, and also
that it be printed for circulation.
Mr. WARDEN objected to the adoption of the Report, be
cause that would give the sanction and recommendation of the
Delegates to the measures it proposed. Before that was done,.
however, he must strongly urge upon the Congress the consi-
deration of three things;-1stly, the tenure upon which those
premises recommended to become the Central Depot were held;
2dly, the constitution of the Association for Bettering the Con-
dition of the Industrious Classes, with which the Report re-
commended a junction to be formed; and thirdly, the consti-
tution of those Co-operative Societies which were represented
by the Delegates at that Congress. With regard to the first
point, he was in no way satisfied.
Mr. OWEN here rose, and said he could save time by read-
ing a memorandum of agreement between Mr. Bromley, as
the proprietor of the premises, and he himself (Mr. O.), as
governor of the Institution. This was read, and purported to
be an agreement upon the part of Mr. Bromley to assign to
Mr. Owen, on the 1st day of January, 1833, all the premises
situated in Gray's-Inn Road, with the fixtures and fittings,
upon the payment of 17,700., to be made as soon as the
funds of the Association were declared to be sufficient for that
purpose, and its governors declared that such a sum might be
thus appropriated consistently with the interests of the Institu-
tion. If the Association were not in a condition to make the
purchase at the specified time, then Mr. Bromley to be at
liberty to let, or sell, or otherwise dispose of the premises; the
Institution to be allowed, in the mean time, to occupy the pre-
mises, &c. without charge. It was further included in the
agreement, that no member of the Association should be liable
for any payment in respect of the premises, but in the amount
that might be due from him as a member. Nothing (Mr. Owen
remarked) could be more satisfactory than that agreement.
They ran no risk till January next, before which time he
thought it very strange if they could not make the premises
entirely their own. If, however, they should fail in that, and
articles were previously sent into the place as an exchange
depot, all that would be necessary was to remove the things
from the premises in December next.
-
Mr. WARDEN resumed, and said he would not, after the
reading of the memorandum, and the explanation of Mr. Owen,
dwell further upon the tenure of the premises. But he felt.
equally the importance of the other thing he had adverted to;
namely, the constitution of the Institution. That was of a
perfectly despotic nature, and was entirely dependant upon the
48
governor. True, there was a council or committee; but it had
no veto on the acts or proceedings of the governor-it was
only appointed to assist him in carrying his plans into effect.
Should he die suddenly, then the whole affairs of the Institu-
tion would be involved in confusion, for no one but himself
knew any thing about them. There was also a defect in the
document of very great importance; and that was, the omis-
sion of all reference to land-an essential consideration to
their plans.
-
Mr. OWEN again rose, and stated that one of their best
members had offered them 421 acres of capital land, in a good
situation, at 22s. 6d. an acre, tithe free; and it immediately
adjoined a property of 1,100 acres belonging to a friend of his
(Mr. O.), who, he was sure, would do any thing in his power
to promote their object.
Mr. WARDEN said he knew all about this land, and thought
it by no means so great a bargain as Mr. Owen did. He now
proceeded to the other thing he had adverted to—namely, the
constitution of the Co-operative Societies represented by the
Delegates; and he was sure that, when that was considered, it
would be deemed impracticable to unite with the Institution
of which Mr. Owen was the governor. Their Societies were
based upon a perfect equality of rights among their members;
and every officer was chosen by universal suffrage, through the
medium of the ballot. How could such Societies amalgamate
with one that was a perfect despotism, and whose movements
depended entirely on the will of one man? It was impossible,
in his opinion; at all events, as he hated despotism in every
form, he should protest against the junction.
A good deal of desultory conversation followed, which ter-
minated in the appointment of a Committee, to whom the
document was referred for revision.
Mr. CARSON then presented the following
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE "NORTH WEST of
ENGLAND UNITED CO-OPERATIVE COMPANY,”
(Opened December 12, 1831.)
"Your Committee have much satisfaction in reporting to this
congress, that after having surmounted many difficulties, they
have brighter prospects before them; and the most sanguine
hopes of effecting the great objects for which they were esta-
blished-viz., that " of establishing a medium of exchange for
co-operative productions, and thus connecting, in a close bond
of union, the societies of all parts of the kingdom.” Your
Committee, however, cannot but regret, that many societies,
who by their delegates engaged to trade with the company,
from various causes, have not yet performed their engagements;
but they anticipate, that the causes which have prevented
them, will speedily subside. This, however, has been the read
49
son that your Committee could not carry several of the laws
into effect, among the rest, that" of each trustee visiting Li-
verpool each week in rotation." In order to save expence,
they have appointed one of their number, who lives nearest, to
visit the store and transact the necessary business, and report
from time to time to his colleagues; and, on matters of import-
ance, to call them together.
"Your Committee have further to report, that they have
nearly completed arrangements to open their retail establish-
ment, which will assist in meeting the expences of the entire es-
tablishment, and afford an opportunity of disposing to the public
of the various goods that are manufactured by co-operative so-
cieties. The following is an abstract of the concerns of the
company.
"Thirty-one societies have commenced dealing at the store.
"Twenty-one societies have joined the company, by sending
their subscriptions, or part of them. amounting to 152/. 78.
"The amount of sales has been 1,830.; the commission re-
ceived has been 24/. 12s. 1d.; whilst the current expences have
been 51l. 7s. 3d., leaving a minus of 267. 158. 2d.
"Your Committee deem it necessary to observe, that they are
now doing businesss to meet every expence, and have no doubt
they will, ere long, be able to reduce their now small commis-
sion of 1 per cent; they further impress on those societies
which intend joining the company, immediately to do so, and
to send their subscriptions, as money is wanted to complete
the arrangements of the retail establishment.”
Mr. CARSON observed, that the establishment of the whole-
sale company in Liverpool, having been left to practical and
business-like men, had been carried into effect in a business-
like manner. Such was the way in which their business
was conducted, that the company was enabled, even in its pre-
sent imperfect state, to serve the retailers with goods at a lower
price than they could procure them elsewhere. Practical men,
and those who had the best means of coming to a correct con-
clusion upon the subject of the Liverpool undertaking, had
expressed their conviction, that this establishment would
shortly become one of the most extensive in the kingdom.
When they first commenced, they had numerous difficulties in
their trading speculations to overcome; but they had happily
surmounted them. Their business was now increasing, and
left a good profit, and they were now about to take a retail
shop in a leading thoroughfare in Liverpool, in which they in-
tended to exhibit every article manufactured and sold by the
societies. They were enabled to cope with any of the traders
in Liverpool; and the richest importers in the town sought
their agent, and solicited his custom, knowing that he had
always the ready money to pay them. There was no doubt
but this establishment in Liverpool would, in a short time,
·
50
}
prove a valuable medium of exchange for co-operative produce
of all sorts, Such were the resources, combined with the in-
dustry of the societies in the North, that they would not have
the slightest difficulty in filling the immense building in which
the delegates were then assembled, over and over again, with
the produce of their labour. If the members of the Metropo-
litan Societies were to make their purchases of their brethren in
the country, for what they could supply them with, their
country friends would do the same with them, either in the
way of barter, or for cash, and the advantages would be mu-
tual and most extensive. At the present moment, they were
supplying some of the principal merchants of Liverpool with
their manufactures; and such was the high repute in which the
company was held, that if it wished for credit to the amount
of 10,000!., it could immediately have it. Mr. Carson con-
cluded by remarking, that he considered the subject of the
direct exchange of labour by the workmen themselves, as one
of vast importance, and every one of the delegates ought to
make himself well acquainted with it in all its details.
A resolution that this report be received was then moved
and seconded. Just as it was being put from the chair,
Mr. WATKINS rose and said, that he considered the report,
together with Mr. Carson's statement, of too much importance
to be passed over without some remarks. A great deal of highly
useful information, grounded upon actual facts, was before
them, and he trusted would have due weight with those present.
Mr. GASKELL (of Kendal) was desirous of pointing out
the benefits which were to be derived amongst co-opera-
tive societies in the way of trade. Our society (said Mr.
Gaskell) has long had her eye upon such an establishment as
that now formed at Liverpool, where a mart is now estab-
lished for the disposal of a great portion of our manufactured
goods. When our society was first established, we were enabled
to do but little, but are now, thanks to our industry and per-
severance, enabled to cope with any tradesman in the town.
We have now a market for our manufactured goods, and our
prospects are all very promising. Our society caused another
society to be established at Kendal, which, although it called
itself a co-operation society, was widely different in its prin-
ciples, and it meets with but little success. The importance
of co-operative, societies was beginning to be felt generally
throughout the kingdom.
Mr. SKEVINGTON (of Loughborough) bore testimony to the
happy and beneficial effects which had resulted from the es-
tablishment of co-operative societies in the part of the country
from which he came. He trusted that, united as they were in
such a cause, they would speedily be independent of the con-
trol of capitalists and masters, and not only possess the neces-
saries and comforts, but also the luxuries of life, so far as they
would tend to their benefit and happiness.
51
Mr. PETRIE rose for the purpose of congratulating the Con-
gress upon these bright prospects by which they were then sur-
rounded. He was assured that the emancipation of the work-
ing classes (in spite of the machinations of their enemies)
had not only commenced, but was, in fact, nearly accom-
plished.
Mr. E. TAYLOR (a Delegate from Birkacre, Lancashire, and
representing a society of upwards of three hundred individuals)
explained at some length the annoyances to which the society
he represented was subjected, by the jealousies of capitalists and
masters. The society rented extensive premises on lease, for
which they paid 6007. per annum. They had expended 300%.
in the purchase of machinery for the printing of silks, cottons,
&c. Some malicious persons, finding they were very likely
to effect some good for themselves, had been tampering with
their landlord, and endeavouring to get them turned out; but
he was happy to inform the Congress that their object was de-
feated, and the society, wishing to increase their strength, and
at the same time to assist others, were desirous of co-operating
with their honest fellow-workmen, that they might be protected
from common dangers, and for this important purpose they had
delegated him to attend that Congress.
Mr. KINGSON, of Newark, had experienced great trouble and
difficulty in organizing the Newark co-operative society, and
disposing of their manufactured goods; but, as an opening was
soon made for them in Liverpool, through the North-west-of-
England Co-operative Company, they would not fail to have
recourse to it, and he looked forward to the most beneficial re-
sults.
Mr. BENBOW said, throughout his whole life he had never
experienced greater pleasure than in hearing what was reported
of the Liverpool Company, which was most cheering and satis-
factory. The desire of the society which he represented was
to effect an exchange of labour for labour; but this he consi-
dered to be of so much importance that it ought not to be hur-
ried over.
MR. BISHOP, Delegate from Birmingham, mentioned the
reason why the Birmingham Society had not dealt with the
Liverpool Co-operative Company. Soon after the Birming-
ham Society was established, the managers very foolishly gave
credit to several of the members, whom, he was sorry to say,
were not sufficiently honest to pay the debts they had con-
tracted. Added to this, they had embarked their capital in
too many businesses at the same time, which distracted their
attention, and occasioned much loss. Their funds had been
much deteriorated, and for a time at least they had been
compelled to give up their provision store; and hence their
inability to deal with the company at Liverpool. Their affairs
were now, however, assuming a brighter aspect, and he had
“
i
F 2
52
1
not the least doubt they would be able shortly to make an ex-
change in goods.
Mr. DENT remarked, that several members who got into
debt with a society to which he belonged, were summoned
before a magistrate, and made to pay.
Mr. OWEN begged to call the attention of congress, for a
moment, to a few observations he wished to address to them.
It was not well to be led away without knowing what they
were doing, and also the results. The society at Liverpool
was either a wrong or a right establishment. To be ultimately
successful, it must come into fair and open competition with all
other establishments similarly constituted. But he did not expect
any thing to be permanently profitable, if great competition,
and a striving to outdo each other, were to take place between
societies. One of their grand objects ought to be to exchange
their goods.
The Delegates then adjourned for an hour.
Just as the congress was about to resume its business, Jo-
SEPH HUME, Esq. M. P. entered the room, and took a seat at
the table, amidst loud cheers. The discussion on the report of
the North West of England Co-operative Association was then
resumed.
Mr. HIRST Congratulated the congress, that with the aid of
such feeble means they had been able to attain such important
objects. The fact was, that distress and suffering made men
desperate, and they then realised the full measure of their
strength. He also congratulated them that their minds had not
been directed to violent proceedings, but to help themselves
without robbing others. Such had been their influence in the
north of England, that while most other parts were exposed to
the ravages of incendiaries, there was scarcely a solitary case
throughout the West Riding of Yorkshire. He then called the
attention of the congress to the way in which their minds had
been directed to co-operation. They had seen the world
groaning under the weight of their productions, and they were
led to ask how it was that they who produced all--and in such
abundance too-were steeped in poverty and wretchedness.
They were told they were poor because they created so much
riches. Now, that somewhat staggered them, and they pro-
ceeded to ask what they should do. They had long petitioned
the legislature and the government, but they had in reply told
them they could do nothing for them. They (the working
classes) had asked to be permitted to send men into parlia-
ment, who knew and would promote their interests. But the
legislature replied, they were too ignorant to be entrusted with
such a power. They soon began to feel the hardship of this
treatment. They felt it most bitterly that they should first be
made so poor, that they could not afford to purchase knowledge
(which the government had taken care to prohibit by stamp
53
duties), and then that on the plea of the ignorance thus indu-
ced, they should be deprived of their political and social rights.
Well, then, being thus treated by the government, the working
men determined to act for themselves, in accordance with the
advice of Mr. Secretary Peel. They found that one among
them could make one thing, and another another thing; and
then that they could exchange with each other. Acting upon
this discovery, they had formed themselves into co-operative
societies in different parts of the kingdom, and were at this
time carrying on to a very great extent their business of ex-
change, and thus reaping the fruits of their own labour. If
these exchange depots were established in every town in the
kingdom, the advantages to the working classes would be in-
calculable. (Hear).
The report of the trustees of the Liverpool United Co-ope-
rative Company was then agreed to.
ADDRESS TO THE GOVERNMENTS OF EUROPE AND AMERICA.
Mr. OWEN rose to submit to the congress, an Address to
the governments of Europe and America. After the read-
ing of the address,
MR. WARDEN proposed that it should be adopted by the
delegates, and presented for the approval of the public
meeting on the following day.
Mr. HARRISON, of Glasgow, seconded the motion, and
descanted at some length on the importance of bringing the
principles and facts comprised in that document under the
notice of the respective governments to whom it was ad-
dressed; not so much to make them known to these govern-
ments as to the inhabitants of the world at large.
MR. WATKINS objected to one part of the address, in
which the memorialists expressed their indifference as to
forms of government, whether democratic, monarchical, or
despotic.
MR. MANDLEY and MR. PETRIE supported the memorial.
It was not necessary to criticise too nicely isolated expres-
sions; its great object was to let the governments of the
world know, that if they would not assist the working classes,
the working classes would do all they wanted for themselves.
MR. BENBOW concurred with Mr. Watkins in objecting
to the part of the address pointed out. He would not con-
sent to address any government in terms of hypocrisy, even
to attain the greatest object. He, therefore, would not
subscribe to the statement of the address, that forms of
government were immaterial. He hated despotisms under
every form, and ever would, as he ever had, do every thing
in his power to destroy it.
MR. LOVETT agreed with Messrs. Watkins and Benbow
in deprecating every thing that appeared approbatory of the
F 3
54
"
1.
principle of despotism, and therefore moved as an amend-
ment, that the address be referred to a committee for revision.
Mr. SKEVINGTON concurred in the statements which had
been expressed by the preceding speaker. He was opposed to
any thing which appeared to favour or excuse despotism. He
therefore seconded the amendment.
Mr. SIMPSON fully anticipated Mr. Owen's reply; but he
would ask whether it could be believed that the principles of
co-operation could effect their proposed object, while the go-
vernment remained in its present state? Was the new system
consistent with despotism or not? If it were not, then the
sentiments of the inemorial or address were clothed in the spe-
cious language of expediency. (Hear.) It was stated that the
conduct of government had been fallacious, and productive of
many of the evils now endured. Why then not boldly declare
to government, that if it did not alter its fallacious modes of
governing, that the business of melioration must be taken into
wiser and better hands? He also wished to inquire what time
they were to wait for the government's decision on this address;
and if they did wait, was it not most probable that, after all,
they should have to rely on their own unaided exertions? He
therefore urged the necessity of not waiting, nor suspending ex-
ertions, for a benefit which was remote and very uncertain.
Mr. OWEN defended the memorial against the charge of in-
consistency; and remarked, that despotic governments were
frequently found to be better than what were called democratic.
In the countries where those governments existed, the indus-
trious classes were not found in such misery and destitution as
in this country; and therefore, on this ground, there was no
reason to dislike despotisms. As far as the co-operative sys-
tem was concerned, it was of no consequence whether go-
vernment were despotic or not. In asking for an entire
change in social relations, it must be seen that that change
could be better effected by an existing government, than
by one to be newly introduced. When government found
that they must either oppose the whole mass of popular
intelligence, or alter their measures, they would prefer the lat-
ter alternative; and if they could be made to know that the
industrious classes had discovered some better mode of govern-
ment, they would be very much inclined to take the lead in
the new and superior plan. That there was an ignorance
among legislators as to the true principles of goverment, was
evident, from the manner in which the productive powers had
been suffered to operate on national prosperity. While we
had long possessed an artificial power to produce wealth,
which equalled the production of 600,000,000 of men, and
which was capable of being increased so as to be equal to the
production of twice that number, its effect had been to create
poverty for the mass. Mr. Owen then argued that with such
55
means to produce a superabundance of what was required,
taxation could not be the source of poverty and distress, as was
erroneously supposed, for that we had the power to pay a
much larger suin than that now imposed, if requisite for good
government. They should, therefore, tell the government
what they knew, and that with the command of such resources,
they could not remain silent spectators, and see their brethren
die for want.
JOSEPH HUME, Esq. M.P. then rose and said, that although
only a visitor, perhaps he might be permitted to address a few
words to the meeting. He had himself been a co-operator
perhaps longer than most then present, although his co-opera-
tion differed from that of his friend in the Chair. He was
surprised to have heard what had been said in reference to the
character of governments. It was inferred that the English was
a democratic government; but this he must deny; for while
it was democratic in name, it was certainly despotic in prac-
tice. The only difference between the despotism of Austria
and Constantinople, and that of England, was, that while in
each of the former it was exercised by one man, to whom
every thing was immediately attributed, in England it was
inflicted by many, and clothed with the specious name of
liberality. Mr. Hume expressed his surprise that popular in-
struction was not urged in the proposed Address, as it was
only from knowledge that the people could be freed from the
trammels of bad laws and state religion. He then insisted that
taxation was a great evil, both by its direct pressure on indus-
try, and by the various abuses to which it acted as the medium
of support. There had, however, been an enormous reduction
of those who existed on this species of exaction from industry;
and the very men who once hunted others down for attempt-
ing this reduction, had now become Radical Reformers. As
to the oppressive effect of taxation, he was surprised that it
could be doubted. It made some difference whether a man,
out of one shilling a day, had to pay taxes amounting to one
penny, or to half-a-crown. In one case, industry retained
what labour had produced; in the other, half the products
were swept away, without any return. The wages of the la-
bourer would never bear any proportion to his increased ex-
penses, while the laws were made to favour a few, and create
a monopoly of food in favour of the rich. Those who fed on
taxes certainly did say to the complaining multitude, "What
are taxes in their amount to individuals?" They had hitherto
had skill enough to gull the people, and make them believe
that taxes were a good. Mr. Owen appeared to have been a
little bitten in this manner. (A laugh.) By depressing the
condition of the industrious classes, taxation also had pro-
duced a monopoly of knowledge, to which he (Mr. H.) had
always been opposed. The Church had opposed every institu-
56
tion which proposed the diffusion of that intelligence which
did not happen to favour her own views. When the Lancas-
terian plan of education was first introduced, he had supported
it, but met with the monopolising opposition of the Church;
though that opposition had ultimately led to an extension of
schools. In reference to seeking extraneous aid, Mr. Hume
recommended the Congress to trust to themselves. He ad-
vised them to address no king and no government, but strive
to diffuse knowledge; for ignorance and subserviency, as long
as they should remain, would always make the people the
milch-cow for plunder and oppression. Mr. Hume then al-
luded to the spread of education in the United States as an
example for emulation. In the State of New York, the average
number of children from the age of five to sixteen years, ac-
cording to the census, was estimated at 497,000; while the
number of those instructed in schools, in different sections of
the State, amounted, according to returns, to 499,000—being
more than the number given by the census. With such an
example of what the efforts of the people could do, why need
the Congress apply to New York, or any other State, for as-
sistance? They should be cautious to publish nothing which
would contravene the great principle of popular ability. Mr.
Hume then observed, that he did not think it possible to make
all men happy alike, as Mr. Owen proposed. ( But we have
got the science," interposed Mr. O.) The Hon. Gent. then read
an extract from a reply which the celebrated Dr. Channing had
given to some questions which had been put, on the subject
of the proposed happiness of the co-operative system; in
which the Doctor stated, that though the means of happiness
were afforded to all, all would not make use of them; that the
mind was enriched by its own operations, and had certainly a
power to control or modify the impressions which were made
upon it; and hence, that man had some power to form his own
character, and was not entirely the creature of circumstances.
Mr. Hume left the room amidst the cheers of the Delegates.
MR. PARE said he was sorry Mr. Hume was leaving, as
he (Mr. P.) was tempted to make a reply to some observa-
tions which had fallen from the honourable gentleman. He
would readily admit that a reduction of taxes, so far as it
went, would tend to dry up the sources of corruption, and
turn the attention of our legislators to some practical measures
for the permanent relief of the people. But Mr. Hume had also
spoken of the pressure of the taxes in a pecuniary point of
view, as abstracting from the hard earnings of the labourers.
Now, did not that gentleman perceive that whatever the
government remitted in taxes, would, instead of benefitting
the working classes, be swallowed up by the commercial
classes ? Some people talked about the identity of interests
between the lower and middle classes. This, however, he
57
thought was a fallacy; there was no such identity; it was
the interest of the middle classes, the capitalists, to buy
labour as cheap as possible, whilst it was the interest of the
labourers to sell their labour as dear as possible. If, there-
fore, taxes to any amount were reduced, it would only be-
nefit the workmen, until the masters had sufficient time to
screw it out of wages, and that portion of the products of
the labourer which now went into the government exche-
quer, would go into the pockets of the great capitalists.-
(Hear.)
1
MR. HOLMES, of Coleshill, remarked, that though Mr.
Hume had said he was a co-operator, it was in a sense widely
different from that in which they understood the word. The
object of co-operation was to destroy competition, while Mr.
Hume thought that competition should not be destroyed.
The hon. member had done that which had the effect of em-
barrassing operatives, and upheld the spirit of competition in
the silk committee of the House of Commons.
MR. THOMPSON, of Cork, said that before the motion was
put from the chair, he should like to enquire whether if it
were determined to submit the Address to a public meeting,
its adoption was to be considered as an act of the public
meeting, or of the delegates. If presented to government as
the Address of the delegates, he should wish to see a docu-
ment less defective than that which had now been submitted
to their notice. In the Address governments were called
upon to make a total change, but whether they were to bring
about despotism, or the co-operative system, or any other
institutions, not a word was said. The Address did not
mention general education as desirable or necessary, nor did
a word occur as to the evils of private property. Govern-
ment was told by implication, that the co-operative system
possessed all wisdom, but that if they wished to know
any thing about it, they must address to Gray's Inn-
lane. (A laugh.) He hoped the Address would be sub-
mitted to a committee, who would introduce some defi·
nite principles, and give the government some information
as to the modifications required.
MR. PARE thought some alteration ought to be made in
the Address, and he concurred in the observations of Mr.
Thompson.
MR. HIRST thought that government could not produce a
change, which must be produced by the people themselves.
The motion that the address be submitted to a committee was
then carried.
MR. STYLES next read the
'
REPORT OF THE MISSIONARY COMMITTEE.
The committee regretted that they had not received such
58
I
I
efficient co-operation and support from the societies in the
country as they anticipated. They relied with confidence,
however, from the opinion in favour of missionary exertions,
that this deficiency would be supplied in future; and that
the glorious cause of truth and justice, which co-operation
embraced, would find ‘equally zealous support as other causes,
which could not lay claim to such pretensions. They re-
ported the establishment of societies at Greenwich and Hack-
ney, and produced a balance of £3. after having paid their
expences of printing circulars, &c.
MR. WARDEN moved that the report be adopted.
MR. CAULDWELL, of Manchester, seconded the motion,
and urged the necessity of diffusing a knowledge of the facts
on which co-operation is founded. He also read a letter from
the society which he represented, which promised their
zealous concurrence in the cause.
After some details from Mr. Low, illustrative of the benefit of
missionary exertions,
Mr. HIRST moved the adjournment till seven o'clock on Wed-
nesday morning.
Wednesday, April 25.
CO-OPERATIVE MISSIONARIES.
The delegates assembled at seven o'clock, and it having
been communicated that Mr. Owen would be unable to attend,
in consequence of a severe domestic affliction,
Mr. HIRST was unanimously called to the Chair.
Mr. Lowe, after stating the beneficial effects produced by
missionary exertions in the neighbourhood of Manchester,
moved That missionaries be chosen to propagate the prin-
ciples of co-operation throughout the kingdom, to establish
the association of the social family."
Mr. PETRIE seconded the motion, and alluded to the great
importance of the object proposed. He said that if the princi-
ples could be but rightly apprehended, and a right direction be
thus given to the mind, that all the other benefits of the system
would result as a consequence. The preponderance which the
dissenters of England had acquired, arose from their missionary
exertions; and the tracts which they dispersed, containing the
pith and cream of their sentiments, also prepared the way for
the success of their missionaries.
Mr. CALDWELL did not rise to support the present motion,
but to propose as an amendment, “That a society, to be called
theSocial Family,' be formed; that each member pay a
small contribution for the purpose of renting lecture rooms, for
the support of missionaries, and the establishment of Sunday
schools; and that persons not members of co-operative so-
cieties be admitted to the social families.
-
Mr. EATON said that the motion was out of order, and that
59
something must be previously effected before it could be car-
ried into effect. Provisions must be first made for defraying
the expenses of missionaries, otherwise missionary attempts
would prove ruinous to individuals who undertook them. He
suggested a halfpenny a week subscription.
Mr. MANDLY seconded the amendment, and urged the neces-
sity of the principles of the system being well understood, be-
fore reading societies were formed.
Mr. EATON defended trading societies, as a means of im
pressing on the minds of the people the necessity of a change
in the social system.
Mr. SIMPSON expressed his surprise at a declaration of Mr.
Owen's, that Mr. M'Connell was the first public missionary
which they had had in London. For eleven years, he (Mr. S.,)
had been labouring as a missionary, in private and in public.
He supported the original motion, and recommended that mis-
sionaries should not interfere with theological subjects, for it
was not the object of the co-operative system to establish a
theological sect.
Mr. TUCKER said, that the reason the missionary arrange-
ments of the last congress had failed, arose from appointing a
committee only, and not determining on the means by which
they were to operate. He opposed the amendment, and sug-
gested, that each society should make a general contribution
to a fund; that in addition to this, each member subscribe
one halfpenny per week; that each society remit their funds to
a district treasurer, who should communicate win the general
congress.
Mr. Caldwell's amendment was then withdrawn, and the
original motion was carried.
ADDRESS TO GOVERNMENTS.
The Rev. Mr. DUNN then brought up the Address to the Go-
vernments, as amended in the Committee, and proceeded to read
it to the congress.
At the conclusion of the reading of the address, the Rev.
Gentleman observed, that the question then before the congress
was, whether that address should be published and circulated
to the world, as containing the sentiments of the congress.
It was then moved by Mr. WATKINS, and seconded by Mr.
FINCH, that the Address be adopted.
The Rev. J. MARRIOTT requested the Secretary to read the
clause in the address, which had reference to the prevalence of
crime in this country; which having been done, the Rev.
Gentleman declared, it was not his opinion that the vice and
misery- at present prevailing in the world, was as great as at
any former period; and, therefore, he begged to suggest the
omission of that sentence in the report, He maintained, that
mankind was in a state of progressive improvement.
Mr. PARE moved that the obnoxious clause should be struck
out.
60
Mr. OWEN then briefly addressed the Congress to the fol-
lowing effect:--I consider the proceedings of this Congress,
and the important measures it is called upon to discuss, ar-
range, and decide, of far too serious a nature to be infringed
upon by, what I may call, private considerations. I have had,
as you may all be well aware, very considerable experience in
all those matters upon which this Congress is called upon to
deliberate. The establishment of a co-operative mission is of
no manner of consequence, until we have missionaries to go
forth, and we possess funds to pay those expenses which must
inevitably be incurred. In Ireland, there are thousands of our
fellow-creatures in a state, not only of great destitution, but of
absolute starvation. Let us, therefore, go on stedfastly in our
course, and in a few months, I trust, we shall be able to re-
medy all these evils. Those who had minds to reflect—and
did reflect-must be aware that the establishment of incipient
communities was widely opposed to co-operative institutions.
They should go forth to the Government, and tell them that
they had the opportunity of remedying the evils which now
afflicted the kingdom, which they neglected; and that, there-
fore, the people were determined to take the matter into their
hands, and do so themselves. Plain, straightforward, simple
measures would effect our object. Go forward, in this manner,
and state that you are determined to carry these measures, and
you will make the public a party on your side, and your suc-
cess will be certain. You must endeavour to obtain a greater
portion of the favour and patronage of the public than you
now enjoy. I would recommend that an endeavour should
be made to cause the Government to come forward, and take
into their own hands, or bring forward, some plan (a practi-
cable measure) to remedy the evils we now labour under. If .
the Government were tardy in doing this, or absolutely re-
fused to take any steps for this purpose, it would be the means
of creating them powerful friends amongst the public, and thus
render a most essential service to their cause-the cause of
co-operation.
Mr. HIRST observed, that the steps recommended were the
same as were then being taken by the co-operatives. He felt
convinced that the refusal of Government would do more to
promote the success of the work they had in hand, than their
acquiescence to assist them, for the reasons assigned by Mr.
Owen.
Mr. THOMPSON begged to ask in what manner they were to
set about calling upon the Government to adopt those mea-
sures which the Co-operative Societies had in view? The
members of those societies must not relax in their exertions,
notwithstanding the coolness and apathy of the Government.
We must prevail upon our friends to get up, even, little Co-
operative Societies throughout the kingdom; by such means
•
61
our system will be known and talked of, and public opinion
will be enlisted on our side; but, still, in pressing the carrying
into effect minor measures, we must not neglect pursuing
general ones.
Mr. Owen thought that their present mode of proceeding
was a very inefficient one. Their principles, he thought, could
never be carried into effect without embracing the whole sys-
tem of co-operation contemplated by its advocates. They
must proceed to secure the good opinion of the public, before
they could expect to overcome the obstacles which then op-
posed them. It would be much easier to accomplish the whole
than a part. Let them come forward, then, in a body, and
they would compel the adoption of their system, complete and
well-organised in all its parts.
Mr. HIRST said he believed all were agreed upon the gene-
ral principle of co-operation.
The following resolution was then carried unanimously :-
"That this congress highly approves of the document
just read, and which has been adopted by the committee of
delegates from the Co-operative Societies of Great Britain.
and Ireland, to the governments of Europe and America,
and begs to recommend it to the serious attention of the
public at large.
CO-OPERATIVE MISSIONARIES.
The congress then proceeded to the further consideration of
this question.
MR. WARDEN proposed the following motion, which being
duly seconded:
"That this matter do stand over until it shall be deter-
mined whether the congress shall establish District Mis-
sionary Divisions in the empire."
-
MR PARE considered there would be no difficulty in car-
rying into effect co-operative missions. He suggested the
propriety of following in the steps of the religions missionary
societies, both with respect to their mode of collecting sub-
scriptions, and effecting their objects by means of travelling
agents. He thought the resolutions adopted at the last con-
gress ought to be carried into effect.
MR. HIRST said that all appeared desirous of proceeding in
the missionary undertaking without delay. He had heard
some remarks made with respect to the name; but surely it
could be of no consequence what nam? they gave the so-
ciety; it would be judged of by its acts.
MR. SMITH observed, that at a meeting of the second
co-operative congress of delegates, which met at Birmingham
in October last, a resolution was unanimously adopted, to
the following effect:-"That the societies in every town and
village in the United Kingdom, be earnestly requested by
this congress, forthwith to appoint auxiliary committees, for
G
62
the purpose of collecting subscriptions, for the support of
co-operative missions, and otherwise assisting the London
committee; and to inform the London committee of such
appointment, within one month," &c. He had found from
experience, as one connected with Manchester, that at that
town they were unable to carry that resolution into effect,
arising from the total want of means. The co-operatives of
Manchester had taken the subject of missions into their se-
rious consideration; they had intended to form rhemselves
into an organized body for that purpose, and then send
forth the seeds of good fruit; but unfortunately they had no
funds to pay the expence of a mission. He did not despair,
however, for even the trifling subscription of one penny per
week from the co-operatives of the kingdom would, in a few
mouths, amount to several thousands of pounds. There were
many in the town of Manchester who would give them all
their aid, but they would not be compelled to trade at the
shops of the society. Therefore it was necessary that they
should organize themselves into a national body.
•
MR. SKEVINGTON thought it would be a death-blow to
them if this suggestion was carried into effect. Everything
ought to be voluntary. None ought to be under an obliga-
tion to subscribe to this fund for the support of mission-
aries, for he feared that by so compelling them to subscribe,
they would lose a great portion of that support they had so
fortunately secured. He would say, let there be invitations
and excitements, but no obligations, no compulsion re-
sorted to.
MR. SMITH feared he had been misunderstood. It did
not follow that if they formed themselves into a missionały
association, it compelled the members of the trading asso-
ciations to subscribe to their funds.
After a few words from Mr. BENBOW, Mr. Warden's
motion was carried unanimously.
DISTRICT COUNCILS.
MR. WARDEN then moved the following resolutions,
which were seconded by Mr. Flather :-
"That the United Kingdom be divided into missionary
co-operative districts, and that a council be aapointed in
each, to register the name of the societies in each district."
"That the following be named as the districts:-1. The
Metropolis; 2. Birmingham; 3. Manchester; 4. Glasgow;
5. Belfast; 6. Dublin; 7. Cork; 8. Edinburgh; 9. Nor-
wich."
"That the following persons form the council of each
district, with power to form a representative council:—
"London-Messrs. Lovett, Benbow, A. Styles, M'Der-
mott, Flather, Wigg, Fowler, and Powell-Mr. Powell to
act as Secretary.
63
"Birmingham-Messrs. W. Pare and P. Bishop-Mr.
Bishop to act as Secretary.
"Manchester-Messrs..Colvill, Green, Kirkman, Smith,
and Berry-Mr. Herry to act as Secretary.
44
Glasgow-Messrs. Hamilton, Campbell, Simpson,
Miller, Boyd, Grey, Williams, M'Donnell, A. Campbell,
and Harris-Mr. Harris to act os Secretary.
"Belfast-Messrs. Beaty and Kennedy-Mr. Kennedy
to act as Secretary.
"Dublin (The formation of this council to be left to
Mr. Thompson.)
"Cork-Mr. Thompson.-(The appointment of other
members of the council to be left to Mr. Thompson.)
Messrs. Mudie, Charles Grey and
“Edinburgh.
Sheddon.
"NORWICH.-Messrs. Wiseman, Dent and Ballard-Mr.
Ballard to act as secretary."
G
Carried unanimously
Mr. WARDEN next moved-" that a member be sent from
the London Council, on its formation, to the Secretary of
each District Council, calling upon the members named im-
mediately to organize the Council, and make arrangements,
according to the rules and regulations of the Congress, and
to make an early report to the Metropolitan Council, The
circular to be drawn up, and submitted to the Congress
before sent.
Carried unanimously.
The next resolution was to the following effect :-
"That these Councils shall have power to appoint mis-
sionaries, and to collect funds for defraying the expences of
the same; and are requested, in every way, to promote the
interests of Co-operative Societies throughout the kingdom,
in each of their respective districts.
Mr. Watkins and Mr. Caldwell objected to this resolution
but it was ultimately carried.
Mr- WATKINS felt extremely desirous that the question of
labour and labour-banks should be decided. It was a most
important question, and demanded their most serious attention.
He moved that laws and regulations be drawn up (to be
submitted to Congress) for the guidance of the district
councils.
Carried unanimously.
It being nearly one o'clock, and the public meeting being
announced to take place at that hour, Mr. TUCKER proposed
an adjournment.-Carried.
ADJOURNED PUBLIC MEETING.
The meeting adjourned from Monday till Wednesday, was
G 2
64
held at the appointed hour of one o'clock, on this day, in
the large room of the Institution.
*
The Rev. Mr. DUNN, a clergyman of the Church of Eng-
land, proposed that the Rev. Dr. Wade should take the chair,
and in doing so, expressed the gratification which he felt in
thus co-operating in a cause which contemplated the benefit of
his fellow creatures. (Cheers).
The motion having been seconded and unanimously carried,
Dr. WADE took the chair, and addressed the meeting as fol-
lows :—However happy I might feel in taking the chair at a
meeting, the object of which is to further the welfare of my
fellow creatures, I cannot help expressing painful feelings at
the cause of the absence of Mr. Owen, who has this morning
been deprived of his youngest daughter by death. After stating
this, I feel assured that no further apology for Mr. Owen's ab-
sence will be deemed necessary. The present is a meeting
adjourned from Monday, and its object is to spread a know-
ledge of those means by which the distress which exists among
the industrious classes of this country may be removed. Every
one who was present at the last meeting, must have been
struck with the intelligence and clear-headedness displayed by
the portion of the industrious classes who took part in the pro-
ceedings of that day. From the knowledge which they mani-
fested, and the manner in which they behaved, I do not hesi-
tate to say that they are worthy to be taken by the hand by
their richer neighbours. (Cheers). As a clergyman of the
established church, I saw nothing dishonourable in their object,
nor any violence in their proposed measures. The state of
distress in this country will not allow of any feeling of neutra-
lity. We behold want, with all its complicated miseries,
driving men to acts of violence and crime; and really, if I
were suffering from that intensity of wretchedness which so
widely prevails, I could not answer for the acts which I might
commit. (Hear). This degree of want, however, I do not
feel; but when I behold the other extreme of wealth, I cannot
help joining in the prayer of Agar, that I may neither have
riches nor poverty. (Cheers).
Partial remedies for the evils
now desolating the industrious classes have been tried, and
issued in failure; and it is evident, that nothing but united
effort or co-operation, will succeed. Is it not shocking to
know, that the poor have been insulted and mocked, that
they have been set to dig holes, and then fill them up again,-
that they have been passed from parish to parish, and often
died of want or infirmity by the way? God never designed
such miseries for his creatures; he has surrounded us with
abundant means of comfort and support; and to withhold
them from those who want, is the highest treason against
heaven! (Cheers). The general emigration so much recom-
mended, Ì cannot view with any satisfaction. When there is
M
·
t
65
1
abundance of land in this country, and the means to render it
far more than sufficient to maintain every Englishman, is it
not hard and unjust that any should be forced from their native.
home! (Cheers). But when Providence thus supplies the
natural means of plenty, it intends that men should then take
up the subject in a proper manner, and make all comfortable
and happy. Of the proceedings of the co-operative congress
entirely approve, for their measures would realize independ-
ence by industry. (Cheers). Englishmen do not want to be
supported by any means but their own industry; and as an
instance, I may mention the Spitalfield weavers, who refused
to have their distress relieved in any shape but that of employ.
ment. (Cheers). That was indeed true nobility of spirit which
must come to the hearts of the rich, and make them admire the
principles of relief by industry, implied in the co-operative
system. I will not further delay you, but merely say, that as
a clergyman, I stand as a sort of connecting link between the
poor and the rich; but if the alternative were to be chosen, I'
would sooner sink with the poor than rise with the rich.-
(Great cheering.)
Letters were then read by the secretary from Lord Bolton,
Leigh Hunt, Esq. and Col. Evans, after which
Mr. CARSON proposed the first resolution, "That with a
view of creating an enlightened public opinion on subjects of
every importance connected with the welfare and happiness of
society, and thereby effecting a peaceable and desirable change
in the condilion of all classes, this meeting impressively urges
on the attention of the legislature the great necessity of remov-
ing all impediments to the cheap diffusion of knowledge, and
promoting, by every means in its power, the establishment of
schools, libraries, and reading-rooms, in every town and village
in the United Kingdom.”—Mr. Carson said, that he thought
government might expect that some great change was about to
take place, when working men came hundreds of miles from the
country to propose such a resolution as that which he had read.
(Cheers). It asked the diffusion of knowledge from govern-
ment, and would they refuse it when they beheld the wretch-
edness, violence, and crime, which ignorance had produced?
But if the legislature would not thus assist the working classes,
on one thing they were determined-that they would help
themselves! (Cheers).—Mr. Carson then alluded to the ori-
gin and progress of the co-operative society at Leeds, which
beginning its operations with six shillings, laid out in the pur-
chase of candles, gradually increased its trade and capital, till
it had been able to open a large co-operative store in Liverpool,
containing almost every article of British manufacture; while
the agent was enabled to make advantageous purchases of
foreign articles in the market. This showed, that the working
classes if united, could produce wealth and enjoy it. They
G 3
66
were determined to become masters for themselves, and never
cease their exertions till they could stand in the image and
likeness of their Maker, and call no man master. (Cheers).
They did not, however, indulge any ill feelings towards
masters; and in many instances they had succeeded in dis-
suading men from hostile unions to raise wages; for they were
assured that such unions were not founded on correct principles.
But while co-operation would increase the physical comforts of
man, and obtain a few of the good things of this life, it wished
to increase knowledge. When a society was established, it was
necessary for them to have a room, this they turned into a
school room, and, by way of saving expence, they turned their
secretary into the school-master. (Cheers). The moral effect
which such efforts produced, was great and striking: where a
co-operative society was formed, the public-house was generally
the sufferer. (Cheers). He would here take the opportunity
to declare that, though many had been prevented joining the
cause of co-operation from supposing that it included none but
Deists among its members, in the part of the country from
which he came, people co-operated from Christian principles.
(Cheers). He himself was a Christian co-operator, and certain
he was, that there was no inconsistency between Christianity
and co-operation. (Cheers). They had, however, excluded
all sectarianism both in politics and religion, as they determined
to preserve a charitable feeling to all. In alluding to the compe-
titive system Mr. Carson observed that it was in the extreme,
grinding and oppressive; and that after customers had bitten
at the master, and the master at the man, there was nothing.
left for the workmen to snap at (laughter). But they had now
their eye upon a very important undertaking, the establish-
ment of labour banks, by the means of which they proposed to
exchange labour for equal labour, which would enable the
industrious always to find a market for their productions.
After alluding to the estimation in which co-operative socie-
ties were held, he said that a gentleman who had visited
congress had offered to let their society have a thousand acres
of land for a community (cheers). He must confess the gra-
tification he felt on beholding the approach of an extinction
of sectarian feeling, and that they had now among them
churchmen and dissenters, and ministers of every Christian
denomination, who would shew what great triumphs
could be obtained by unity and co-operation (cheers).
Mr. FLATHER seconded the resolution, and stated that the
co-operative society of Poland-street, Oxford-street, to which
he belonged, was formed three years ago. About fifty per-
sons then found themselves pressed by difficulties, arising
from the bad state of trade: they united as co-operators, and
the result had been that they were now able to rent pre-
mises at 801. per annum; that they had a library, and read-
+
67
ing rooms, and philosophical lectures were delivered; and
they frequently had assemblies and balls (cheers). Thus, by
their own exertions, the proverb was illustrated, that heaven
would help those who helped themselves. (Cheers.) I
was by knowledge that such, and much greater, benefits were
produced, which belonged exclusively to no party or sect,
and ought to be universally diffused, It was absurd to
suppose that the union of so many parties was not effi-
cient. A gentleman connected with the bar had offered
them a large institution in the immediate neighbourhood
of Westminster, of great annual value, rent free, for one
year; and at the expiration of that period, if the society
desired to rent the building, he would take the amount of
rent in their co-operative notes. He brought this fact
forward to show to the meeting the feeling which was.
manifested by all liberal persons in favour of co-operation.
He sincerrly hoped, in the language of the resolution he
had the pleasure to second, that an enlightened opinion.
would be created in the minds of the public, connected with
the welfare and happiness of society; which would, most
certainly, be the means of effecting a peaceable and desirable
change in the condition of all classes (cheers).
Mr. WARDEN also supported the motion. The resolution
speaks of schools. Thank God ! schools-for indeed the
schoolmaster is abroad"-schools are now pretty generally
established. We have instituted a new school-a labour
exchange, not for the purpose, I can assure you, of creating
work (for in that particular we have all been pretty well
drilled), but to enable us to enjoy the fruits of our labour.
We have effected, within a period of only six weeks, 899
labour exchanges. This fact, I am sure, will convince all
those present how much good it is in our power to effect by
co-operation. We will urge upon the government to take
off all those restrictions which press so heavily and unequally
upon the working classes. If the legislature refuse to do this,
why, then we have the power in our own bands. We will
dry up the sources of wealth, as to them, and there's an end
of the enjoyments of the enemies of the labouring popu-
lation. They will tell us that they will take care of their
own interests. Then we can do the same with respect to
ours. I trust that the legislature will see the benefit which
will accrue to all classes by taking the tax off knowledge,
which are as odious in their operation as they are partially
enforced (loud cheering).
The resolution was carried unanimously.
[At this period Joseph Hume, Esq. M. P., made his appear-
ance upon the platform, and was received with loud and long
continued cheering.1
Mr. HIRST (Delegate from Huddersfield) moved the
next resolution and addressed the meeting. He consi-
68
dered no subject of so much importance to all classes as
that of endeavouring to make their fellow creatures con-
tented and happy. That question had engrossed his atten-
tion for many years. The working classes had been maligned
by the world, and insulted by their superiors. He considered
the working classes to be the most honourable, because they
were the most useful classes of society. Some persons in the
world had thought that the poor were made for their mere con-
venience, others that one man was made for a lord, and the other
manufactured to be a beggar all his days (laughter) Was
this, he would ask, the first principle of the first great Cause?
God had provided enough for them all-nay, more than enough
-and England might become, what she ought to be, the Para-
dise of the world. Mr. Hirst then dilated upon the various and
complicated evils of the present system, particularly the abo-
minable and unjust law of primogeniture Various men at-
tributed the evils now existing to various causes: some to
primogeniture-some to the funding system-some to the paper
currency-some to the East India Company-some to the Aris-
tocracy—some to the Corn Laws; but it was really owing to
the ignorance of the working classes themselves. That igno-
rance, however, would not last long-the schoolmaster had
gone abroad-he had got into Yorkshire, and the ignorant
Yorkshiremen now knew great B. from a bull's foot (cheers and
laughter). The evils of which they complained arose from all
these causes, combined with others of which he perhaps might'
make mention. These were the causes of the present anoma-
lous state of things-a few excessively rich, and millions ex-
tremely poor. Strange that riches should lead to poverty, abun-
dance to want and plenty to starvation. He trusted this would
not be put in printed history, for generations unborn would
think those who lived in the present day could not be right in
their heads (cheers). Some persons had said the Government
should remedy these evils-but no Government could do it, so
as to meet the exigencies of the present constitution. The re-
medy was co-operation; they must work for themselves—they
must unite and gain knowledge-and union, combined with
knowledge, was the most powerful engine by which despotism
could be overthrown or good effected (cheers).
-
Mr. WATSON next addressed the meeting. It had not been
his intention to have troubled the meeting with any address
upon the present occasion; but, as an individual who had taken
some little part in co-operation and politics, he could not re-
sist the opportunity which now offered itself to attempt a re-
ply to the observations of Mr. Hirst, the Huddersfield Dele-
gate, who had just resumed his seat. I candidly assure you,
Sir, from my heart, (said Mr. W.) that I most cordiully coin-
cide in the sentiments expressed in the resolution which has
been proposed; and it is on that account that I cannot conceal
from this meeting that I totally differ with some of those remarks
-
69
1
which have been made upon it. I have stated that I perfectly
agree with the words of the resolution; and I will tell you why.
It calls upon this meeting to urge the necessity-and, indeed,
the necessity is great-of removing all those shackles upon,
and impediments to, the diffusion of cheap knowledge which
now exist. It likewise pledges us to promote, by every means
in our power-and our efforts should not be wanting-the es-
tablishment of schools, libraries, and reading-rooms, in every
town and village throughout the united kingdom. Now, I can.
only say, as far as I am individually concerned, that I will co-
operate with you; not only to give to all information-sound,
useful information-but to enable those to whom it is given to
understand it (bravo!). Let me tell you, the Government feels
no interest in promoting the circulation of useful knowledge.
It would rather stem the torrent of intelligence, if it could, than
suffer it to proceed onwards in its course. Those who are deeply
interested in the diffusion of knowledge of every kind are the
working classes-the hard, industrious labourers-and, there-
fore, we may expect little or no assistance from a Government
which has always trampled upon them. I am one of those who
desire that knowledge should be given to the people without
calling upon the Government to allow it; I am an advocate for
the diffusion of really useful knowledge, without even their sanc.
tion, and therefore I am pointed at by the Government as a
friend to violence, and the promoter of confusion (cries of ques-
tion from the platform). I am applying myself to the question
-strictly so; though, I must confess, many of those who have
spoken before me wandered wide from the subject of the reso-
lution. I listened to them with great pleasure, as far as co-ope-
ration was concerned, though the resolution which had been
proposed had no reference to that subject. I contend, that if
we seek to diffuse cheap knowledge by establishing schools and
libraries throughout the kingdom, we must look to ourselves,
and not to the Government, who have endeavoured, by every
means the law gives them, to put down cheap knowledge. My
friend from Huddersfield has said that the Government must
put the law in force, even though it be bad. I maintain,
however, that it is no such thing. They ought not to put such
a law in force—they must not-they shall not (cheers).´ I, and
other men who are called violent, will compel them to repeal
the laws against cheap knowledge-not by force, but by suf-
fering; we will show the Government that, in a good cause,
suffering improves and incites a virtuous mind. The law pu-
nishes us for being ignorant, whilst it, at the same time, asso-
ciates those men who are seeking to destroy ignorance in a pri-
son with thieves and felons. I am one of the humble classes,
dependent on my own exertions for my daily bread, and I can
therefore duly appreciate the value of knowledge, Talk of ap-
pealing to the Government, indeed! What are its acts? What
70
has it done for us? Nothing! Nothing, my friends; or
rather worse than nothing (cheering). Mr. Hirst said, on Mon-
day last, that it was necessary to put bad laws in force; or ra-
ther that the Government could do no other than prosecute
Mr. Carpenter for giving unstamped knowledge to the people.
I trust that Mr. Hirst by this time is convinced of his error, and
that he sees his reasoning was as fallacious as it was impolitic.
I hope soon to see him at this table reading his recantation,
and repenting of his error (cries of question, question, from two
or three persons on the platform). I am not to be disconcerted
or put down by clamour, when I am speaking strictly to the
question (hear, hear). We will make this Government, I
say, repeal the taxes on knowledge. Small as we may be
in numbers, our cause is a righteous one, and it must suc
ceed. We will make no appeal to force; we stand forth in
a cause that is good, and we fear not the result (cheers). The
odious laws of which we complain I will defy any one to jus-
tify. My friend, Henry Hetherington, is also called a violent
man; and why? Because he wished to see the public pro-
tected and instructed. Our conduct through life, and our
actions, have been solely guided by honesty and truth. I
must again advert to the proposition for appealing to the go-
vernment upon this subject. What is the use of that? Think
you that they desire the poor should have cheap knowledge?
Certainly not. Think you they have any desire for equal
laws, and an impartial administration of them? You cannot,
when you see them prosecuting and sending to prison scores
of men for selling penny papers, while they refuse to prosecute
the rich man's paper-the Literary Gazette-though containing
large quantities of news, and published without a stamp. That
showed evidently, that those who are in a sufficiently "respect-
able" situation in life to afford eightpence, may have news
without a fourpenny stamp; but that the poor man, who
toils from morning till night, and who could but ill afford a
penny for the purchase of mental food, was to be deprived of
even the benefit of a pennyworth. (Cheers.) They had all re-
cently seen and heard much of the Penny Magazine, pub-
lished by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge:
and some persons had been so foolish as to commend the ho-
nourable and right honourable persons composing that society,
for thus coming forward. But what was the description of
cheap knowledge they were giving to the people? Was it
calculated to be of any real use to them? Had it any ten-
dendency to improve their condition, by giving them more of
the fruits of their own labour? Would it lead them any bet-
ter to understand their rights, or to comprehend and act upon
the principles of co-operation? No. They had been amusing
the people with the fruit of their antiquarian researches, about
Charing Cross; and the fruit of their natural researches, in
0

•
\
B
71
descriptions of the Zoological Gardens. That was all very
well, and very useful in its place; but while he and others-
tens of thousands of others-felt degraded in the land of their
birth, having no participation in their political or social
rights, and carrying about the brand of the slave on their fore-
heads, they were not in a condition to sit down coolly and
philosophically to such investigations. But the diffusion of
knowledge society had done something more than give them
penny magazines. They had founded mechanics' institutes.
Yes. But they had taken care to exclude from them all politi-
cal and theological discussions. It was, doubtless, wise in
them to erect such institutions, because through their means
they taught the people the art of superintending the use of
machinery in the creation of wealth, from the enjoyment of
which they were almost wholly excluded. Yes; they were
famishing in the midst of the abundance of their own pro-
ducing. In conclusion, Mr. W. remarked, that though he
was what was called a political agitator, he was really and
sincerely a co-operator; and he was so for years before many
of those whom he now addressed had thought upon the sub-
ject. (Cheers.) Although he disagreed with Mr Owen upon
some points of minor importance, he agreed with him, that co-
operation was like the land of promise, and that men must
pass into it before they could rationally expect permanent
peace, security, and happiness. The key to his (Mr. W.'s)
conduct, which seemed so greatly to perplex some of his
friends, was this: he thought that if a man could not compre
hend his political rights, he could not comprehend and appre-
ciate his social ones. He believed that no man was fit for the
social state who did not know and comprehend the political
principles of Thomas Paine. (Great cheering.) He should
now take his leave of that assembly with the greatest cordiality
of feeling, notwithstanding the little inisunderstanding that had
just occurred. He felt no hostility against a single individual
-not even against those who had got him in their clutches.
He believed they were all the creatures of circumstances, al-
though the difficulties and perplexities to which the present
state of things subjected him, as well as others, rendered it im-
possible for him always to act and speak with that philosophic
coolness which such a doctrine induced. He saw around him
men of all sects and creeds, and he rejoiced in the circum-
stance; for he agreed in the sentiment of Pope-
For modes of faith let senseless bigots fight;
He can't be wrong whose life is in the right.-(Cheers.)
But there was another noble sentiment penned by the
hand of Byron-an apostrophe to fleeting opinion, with
which he (Mr. W.) was equally delighted, and by quoting
which, he would conclude his observations:-
I
72
Son of the morning, rise! approach you here!
Come, but molest not yon defenceless urn:
Look on this spot-a nation's sepulchre!
Abode of gods, whose shrines no longer burn.
E'en gods must yield-religions take their turn :
'Twas Jove's 'tis Mahomet's-and other creeds
S
Will rise with other years, till man shall learn
Vainly his incense soars, his victim bleeds;
Poor child of doubt and death, whose hope is built on reeds.
Mr. WATSON sat down amidst great cheering.
Mr. CLEAVE rose and said, it had been customary to speak
of the Radicals as being pioneers to introduce politics or sub-
jects unpleasant; here the case was the reverse, as the co-
operators had on this occasion, and on this question, run
through the whole circle of politics, commencing with primo-
geniture, and ending with the probable results of the second
reading of the Reform Bill. (Laughter.) Such being the
case, there could not be the shadow of an objection to the
question being treated as it ought to be, though others had,
with the exception of his friend Watson, made it the mere ex-
cuse for saying that which they had all heard with so much
delight on other occasions. He was not much surprised at
the rudeness of some, who when they heard opinions differ-
ing from their own, chose to hiss and disturb; as he had inva-
riably found those who were the loudest to talk about charity
and forbearance, the most ready to show how boorish they
were. He did not quite agree with those who thought we
ought not to apply to the legislature to remove the impedi-
ments to the diffusion of useful knowledge, though he was
quite certain it would be useless-yet he would avail himself
of every opportunity afforded to create public opinion, and, in
particular, as to petitioning, that the government might be left
without excuse. Mr. Finch had wished them to apply to the
legislature for national schools: had they not national schools
already?-though the craft of those above them placed a barrier
at the entrance, and made them any thing but national; as the
Church catechism effectually excluded thousands of consci-
entious persons who could not, and would not, allow their
children to be taught to order themselves lowly and reverently
to all their betters, with sundry other slavish notions, their souls
abhorrred. All they desired was to be let alone in this respect,
and to be so governed as that they could afford to instruct
themselves and their children in that they knew would make
them happy. (Cheers.) He thought that those who said we
ought to obey all existing laws, did not reason or reflect on
what they stated, or they would at once see the impossibillity
of assembling as a Congress-as by law, they could not come
together from distant parts of the country to represent the per-
sons who sent them, without incurring fine, imprisonment, or
transportation. (Hear, hear.) As to their proceedings, and the
73
}
delightful statements they had heard of the progress of their
principles, was it not absurd to suppose they could have pa-
tience to wait thirty days from the publication of one part (at,
such a price as would bring it within the reach of all), till the
other made its appearance? Such was the nature of the odious
taxes on knowledge, that by putting on paper, in a cheap form,
that intelligence which had so gladdened their own hearts, for the
advantage of those who could not attend, or who lived in a dis-
tant part of the country, they who published were placed in
jeopardy, and ran the risk of a visit from the Attorney-Gene-
ral. He and a few others, seeing the folly of attempting to
make their principles known, except through a cheap press,
had determined at all hazards, to accomplish this important ob-
ject; and now more than 150 persons had been, and were,
sent to mix with felons in the worst prisons of the metropolis.
(Shame.) He, and those with whom he acted, had nothing in
view but "the greatest happiness of the greatest number;" and:
they would be ashamed to say aught they did not feel to be,
true, or not to say and do what they knew to be just. Whatever
they had ben represented to have said or done was alike indif-'
ferent to them they only asked to be judged by their actions,'
and by them they willingly made their stand. The principles
of co-operation were dear to him, but unless passive resistance
was offered to the odious laws that now fettered the press, and
they who offered that resistance were supported, he saw not
the slightest prospect of their views ever being realized.
The resolution was then put and carried.
Mr. PARE then rose and said, the Congress of delegates had
prepared a most important document, which he was now
about to read for the adoption of that meeting. It was an ad-
dress to the governments of Europe and America. He pro-
ceeded to read the Address, as follows:-
“We address you in the spirit of peace, of justice, and of good-
will; but also as men claiming the right of performing the
highest services of humanity.
We know and feel that ignorance and error have made man
imbecile and miserable; the evil is even now vividly present to
our minds, and we believe that we well know, by the experi-
ence of the past, that man may now be transformed to become
virtuous, intelligent, and happy, all his wants being fully sup-
plied; and that we also know the practical steps by which this
change can be effected. It is a glorious task, designed to be ac-
complished in the present day, and we invite you, with ardent
feelings for your own safety and happiness, to unite among your-
selves and with us, in commencing the great and good work with-
out delay that those now living may have some foretaste of the
perpetually increasing improvement and enjoyment which this
generation is, by the new circumstances evidently arising, des-
tined to prepare for succeeding generations.
}
:
"We seek a change of principles and of practice, to be effected
H
1
1
74
by existing governments, in preference to any mere change of
men. It is not disorder or confusion we desire, but a change
from evil to good, without causing thereby injury to any indivi-
dual of the human race.
"The old system of governing and directing mankind is worn
out; its incompetency to remove the causes of vice and misery
is now apparent to every reflecting mind, its sufficiency to
create them is equally apparent.
"Another system, derived from facts and experience, is now re-
quired; a system which shall remove the causes of all the evils
which have so long afflicted humanity, and we are prepared now
to develope such a system, and to submit it for your considera-
tion. We thus offer it from a conviction, that upon a fair investi-
gation you will find it founded in truth, and capable of being
applied most advantageously to immediate practice in every
country; not only in Europe and America, but in every part of the
world.
"In this system we discard all considerations of religious sects
and political parties: we know but one religion, which is Truth
derived from facts well ascertained, and but one party, which is
composed of those who will ardently engage in applying the
TRUTH, SO obtained, upon all subjects, to pratice, for the benefit
of the human race.
"Aided by the power you now possess, and with the consent of
the people whose happiness you would promote, arrangements
may be completed, in a short period, by which wealth may be
produced so easily and pleasantly in every part of the world, that
poverty and the causes of it may be for ever removed from the
human race, and, in consequence, contests for property would
entirely cease.
"From the education which you have received you may, per-
haps, at first deem these statements wild and visionary; THEY
ARE NOT SO; it is true, we are plain obscure men, but we have
deeply studied these subjects both in principle and practice; and
judging from facts within our own knowledge, we have no doubt
respecting the complete attainment of all the results which have
been stated.
"We have thus placed before you our own convictions of the
practicability of new relieving, in a short period, Europe and
America from the direful effects produced by a false and most
highly injurious state of society, miscalled civilization.
"We are most desirous of uniting the best powers of all mankind
in bringing about this glorious change in the shortest possible
period, that the sufferings of humanity, which, among many
classes are now almost beyond endurance, may terminate; that
all may be prepared, as speedily as the requisite practical arrange-
ments will admit, to enjoy that healthy and sound state of exist-
ence, which a true knowledge of human nature and of society
can alone create, and permanently maintain.
-
"Amongst such practical arrngements, we would particularly
call your attention to the following That equal education, and
THAT, too, the best which human knowledge can now devise,
should be imparted to every human being, male and female,
under your respective authority, and that such new institutions
75
or modifications of present institutions, should be immediately in-
troduced, as would secure to every human being all the comforts
and conveniences of life, in return for such improved facilities
exercised for the common good; an object which would be easily
effected by the union of adequate numbers, and the proper ap-
plication of their labour, supplying their mutual wants through
the medium of agricultural and manufacturing operations.
"We desire most sincerely that this change may be effected
without even temporary evil; that not even a single individual
should be injured by it, in mind, body, or estate; and to accom-
plish the godlike purpose, no efforts on our parts shall be wanting.
Whatever others may deem right to do under the new circumi-
stances arising, and hourly advancing, we shall, with singleness
of purpose, endeavour to stay the passions of men, which instigate
them to violence, for their own hurt, and, if possible, bring men
under the direction of calm reason, and the influence of charitable
and kind feelings for all mankind.
<< Having
thus stated our convictions of the capital errors, ou
which society has been founded from the beginning until now,
and our desires relative to the charitable and kind mode of effect-
ing the change to a superior state of human existence, we proceed
to state our own resolves, and the determination which we hold.
we believe, in common with all the intelligent and well-disposed
of the industrious classes, wherever the mind has been allowed the
liberty of free thought and expression.
"We know all men desire to be happy.
"We know all men cannot be happy unless their natural wants
shall be provided for, without over-care or anxiety.
零
​"We know men cannot be happy unless they be virtuous.
"We know that man cannot become virtuous until he shall be
taught to have his highest pleasure in promoting the happiness of
his fellows, without any exceptions on account of individual dif-
ferences of opinion, or any other cause whatever.
"We know man cannot thus act so long as he is constrained to
remain in ignorance, in poverty, or in fear of it, or made to ac-
quire prejudices or notions in opposition to facts.
"We believe that we know the mode of education and the par-
ticular combination of circumstances by which man may be made
a superior being to what he now is, or has been, as far as is known
from history by the existing race of men.
"And we believe we also know the social and economical ar-
rangements by which all his wants may be, with pleasure to the
producers of wealth, amply provided for, without desiring
the possessions of those who are now the holders of superfluous
property.
"We know that the intelligent and well-disposed of the indus-
trious classes are in possession of the power and means to effect
this mighty revolution in the affairs of mankind, by their union
and practical knowledge, without the aid of the wealthy or of
the higher classes, whose knowledge (experience wofully proves)
is of little use to them, and it must be now evident to all, that the
datter cannot exist without the continued assistauce of the former.
"Yet, as this portion of the industrious classes desires to establish
H 2
76
1
in the shortest possible time, peace, order, goodwill, and happiness
among all men, they are anxious that the wealthy and higher
classes, as heretofore, should LEAD. and pursue the measures which
shall be developed, to gradually effect this long desired change;
this consummation of man's hopes and wishes.
w
"There is, in every country, an abundant supply of all mate-
rials requisite to put these measures into immediate practice;
sufficient to give at once the most valuable employment to all
the industrious classes over Europe and America, by which the
real wealth of both continents may be greatly increased; there
is, in truth, nothing wanting to ensure peace, order, prosperity,
and happiness over the world, but practical wisdom on the part
of governments, and corresponding knowledge of their own in-
terests on the part of the industrious classes.
"We express this sentiment, not with a view to displease, but
honestly to inform you and the world, that the proper remedies
may now be applied to put an immediate stop to human misery.
"With anxiety for your welfare, and the permanent peace of the
world, we sincerely hope that you will co-operate with us. For
be assured that our resolve is not to lend the aid of any of our
powers longer to support a system which has generated only vio-
lence, fraud, and disunion, and which, being founded on false
principles, is a foe to real knowledge, and, in consequence, can
produce only vice and crime eontinually.
"Choose, therefore, which course you will pursue; whe-
ther you
will lead us openly, fairly, and at once, in the
direc, path to wisdom, union, perpetually increasing pros-
perity and happiuess, or abide by your past and presept
wretched and futile proceedings.
In the former case we
will follow you with alacrity, will lend you our utmost aid,
and protect you from all evil; in the latter, we will no longer
look up to you for relief, or to be our guides or directors. We
shall not oppose you by violence, beeause, without the aid of the
productive classes we know you are powerless; but we shall
henceforth form arrangements" to take our own affairs into our
own hands," to produce for ourselves, and to enjoy that which
our industry and knowledge shall thus provide fór ús.
"As, however, the peace and happiness of the world will be more
easily and speedily effected and secured by the existing govern
ments, (if so informed and inclined) directing the great and glo-
rious change, which is to emancipate the world from ignorance,
oppression, and vice-a change which man can no longer delay-
we ardently desire that the individuals directing these govern-
ments may now acquire sufficient useful practical wisdom to
discern, through the signs of the times, the wonderful crisis which
is brought about by the sufferings of the industrious classes, (pro-
duced by a most unnatural and unnecessary demoralizing compe-
tition) in this our day; and that seeing this, they will also per-
ceive and understand the good to be obtained, beyond the powers
of man to estimate, and pledge themselves to lead this glorious
moral revolution; and also that they may discover the evil which
must befal them and their adherents, if they longer attempt to re-
sist the change which the progress of events and the interests of
mankind demand.
J
77
1:
Thus shall you proclaim peace and good-will, and entirely re-
move the evils of ignorance, disunion, fraud, violence, crime and
misery, from among mankind for ever.'
The Rev. THOS. MacConnell, in moving the resolution,
"That the meeting highly approved of this Address," said
that, in his own opinion, it was unnecessary for him to offer
any remark, after the interesting document itself had been
read. The object of proposing this Address, was not so much
to bring the subjects it contained before the governments,
to whom it was addressed, as before the public at large; and
he thought that there was not a single expression in it which
could offend any mind, or prevent the governments from
reading it. Indeed, it was only through the good and cha-
ritable spirit which was manifested to men, that their ears
and hearts could be gained. (Cheers.) He felt assured that
the Address could not be rejected on any ground of its own.
It proposed to benefit many, without injuring one; and who
could object to such a proposition? He would here again
declare, that the spirit in which things were done, was one
half towards the accomplishment of any object in the present
state of society; he therefore hoped, that this resolution
would be carried in that good spirit which all must admire.
Mr. ROSSER said, he rose with much pleasure to second
the resolution. It appeared to him, that the document which
they had heard read, contained sentiments and measures of
the highest importance to mankind. The working classes
of all countries were reduced to a condition, lower than
which it was impossible to conceive theat they couldgo; and
it was therefore necessary for those who knew how this dis-
tressing state had been brought about, to lay before the
country the means to be pursued to relieve them-and with
them all other classes. It was a glorious sign of the times,
that the working classes took these things into consideration,
and were anxious not only to ameliorate their own condi-
tion, but to act for the benefit of all mankind. In whatever
situation men were placed, happiness depended on perform-
ing acts of benevolence: the working classes were acting
on this principle. By the document which had been read,
men would be at once put in the possession of that system
which had been developed by the highly intelligent and
purely-hearted Robert Owen. It did not attack men, but
the system which had reduced the working classes to distress,.
not only in this country, but in all others. It was founded
on the principle of charity, which led men to accomplish all.
possible ameliorations for their fellow-creatures. Those who
knew that evil proceeds from ignorance, could not be offended
at the results of such a cause, as exhibited in individual con-
duct. Those who knew that character was formed by cir-
cumstances, must feel that charity which embraced all. This
H 3
78
was the only universal principle that ever had been presented
to the world, The great importance of the Address, there-
fore, was not in calling upon the Governments of Europe
and America to alter some details in their national practices,
but to lay before the world principles, which must come into
general operation in a longer or a shorter time. (Cheers.)
The very opposition which they excited, gave birth to in-
creased activity and energy, which would not be manifested
in hostility to any men, but be directed against the present
system alone. Government was called upon to co-operate in
producing that state in which every man, as it were, would
sit under his own vine and fig tree. (Cheers.) The system
advanced in the memorial was founded on intelligence, and
had a direct tendency to make men virtuous and wise. Mr.
Rosser then said, that he bailed with pleasure the exertions
of Messrs. Cleave and Watson, to obtain the liberty of the
press, and thence the spread of knowledge; for all men must
know that knowledge was desirable. But he deprecated an
hostile attack on Government, for continuing laws which
they might not have the immediate power to repeal. In all
remarks on others, they should feel and display that spirit of
charity, which felt no anger to man. The only chance of sal-
vation for the working classes, was, by energetically and
peacefully acting for themselves. If they united intelligence
with exertion, what could resist them? They had justice,
christianity, and charity, on their side. Let them, therefore,
go on; for if they did not succeed to-day they would succeed
to-morrow. (Cheers.) It had happened hitherto, that they
had been attacked by certain parties and sects, in that spirit
which he now hoped to see eradicated from society, by cha-
rity and co-operation. (Cheers.)
·
C
1
The resolution for adopting the memorial was then put
from the chair and carried unanimously.
·
The Chairman having left the Chair, and being succeeded
in it by Mr. SAULL, thanks were voted for his services, with
great acclamation.
Dr. WADE, after returning thanks, remarked, that as a
clergyman of the Church, he must declare that he conceived.
the tithe system to be an evil, that he should be most happy
to see it abolished, and that he never wished to receive a
farthing from his fellow-creatures for which he did not give
some benefit in return. (Tremendous cheering.) In refe-
rence to the doctrine of human perfectibility, held by Mr.
Owen, Dr. Wade said, that there was no disadvantage in
men trying to become perfect, though entire perfection might
not be realized. This conduct reminded him of that mathe-
matical figure called an Asymptote, which proves the possi-
bility of continual approximation without ever meeting. So
we may go on towards perfection; and St. Paul says, "Cha-
79
rity is the bond of perfectness." However, no man could
do wrong in doing good, and those who did their duty here,
he would venture to say would not be much short of "happi-
ness hereafter. (Cheers.) In alluding to the fate of Poland,
and the conduct of Russia, which he severely censured, he
said the danger of power was there strikingly illustrated';
and that it was the duty of a people to stand up and curb
power wherever it existed. (Great cheering.)
The meeting was then dissolved.
PRIVATE MEETING OF CONGRESS.
Wednesday Evening, Six o'Clock.
MR. VANDELEUR'S ESTABLISHMENT.
Mr. HIRST having been called to the chair,
Mr. MALONY (from Co. Clare, Ireland) rose, and gave
some highly interesting information relative to the Co-ope-
rating Societies in the South of Ireland. He said that his
brother-in-law, Mr. Vandeleur, became acquainted with the
principles of Mr. Owen in the year 1826. He had farmed
600 acres of land for the last seven years; but last year the
Black-feet and White-feet commenced their operations, mur-
dered his steward, and threatened to murder himself and chil-
dren. Upon this he called the people together, spoke to them
of the direful effects of their system, and stated his intention
to proceed on the plan laid down by Mr. Owen. He found
many opposed to it; but he got twenty persons together, and
they worked for three weeks, and began to understand the
plan. They soon diffused the knowledge of it, and now the
society was in full and flourishing operation. Since its com-
mencement, there had not been a single case of drunkenness
or quarrel; nor had there been observed any inmorality.
(Hear, hear.) He wished to remove from the public mind the
erroneous idea, that co-operative societies were dangerous to
the landed interest. It was quite the reverse; for while co-ope-
ration increased the happiness of the individuals included in
it, it tended to strengthen the property of the landholders,
There was not a single member in Mr. Vandeleur's society but
had a good coat, shoes, shirt, &c. They had a committee,
consisting of nine persons, composed of carpenters, shoe
makers, &c.; and their secretary was Mr. Craig of Manches-
ter, to whose able and indefatigable exertions he gave the ut
most praise. They had also a labour-exchange bank, where
the labourers exchanged labour-notes for any necessaries they
might require. Catholic, protestant, and dissenting clergymen
had made purchases there, and had declared they found no
objection to the system. There were also lectures given by
Mr. Craig; and dances twice a week, on Thursdays and Sun-
80
days. The society had also a rule regarding marriages. Any
person wishing to marry a woman within the society, signified
his intention to the secretary, and notice was posted up that a
new cottage was required. If the woman were not in the so-
ciety, she was required to labour in it for a week, in order that
her character and disposition might be known to the commu-
nity. Mr. Malony thought this rather an invidious rule, and
therefore proposed in its place, that the person wishing to
marry should give notice of his intention to the committee,
who should instruct a sub-committee to go and inquire into
the character of the woman; and if approved of, that she
should be admitted by ballot. There was no spirituous liquor
within the society, nor had there been any attempt at smug-
gling any in. Under their system, one man could do the
work of ten under the old system; the explanation of which
was, that they worked at a task appointed by themselves, and
that for their own benefit. They had now also added a reap-
ing machine, and would therefore be able to apply more of
their time to building. The committee fixed every arrangement
with regard to work, &c. Mr. Vandeleur managed the rent
thus: he took the average of seven years' farming according to
the old system, and required the members to give him so much
butter, cattle, and other articles. He (Mr. Malony) would
mention an instance which would tend to illustrate the flou-
rishing state of the society. A Scotchman, named M‘Kinnon,
came to erect a thrashing machine for them: Mr. Vandeleur
offered him a farm of 100 acres; but the Scotchman being of
a very close disposition, it was with difficulty that any opinion
could be elicited from him. He, however, said of the co-
operators" They quite astonish me; I never could have
thought they would have got on so well. They have twenty-
five or thirty Terry Alts among them; and since they have
been in the society, they are quite altered. I wish you could
prevail on Mr. Vandeleur to take thirty more of them; it
would be the best way to reclaim them."-There had also been
a sick fund of one halfpenny per week; but, at a meeting
lately held, it had been discontinued, because there was no
case, nor any fear of sickness. Every married man has a cot-
tage to himself; the single men slept in a long dormitory.
There is also an infant school, which Mr. Craig superintends;
the children are taught agriculture, and any of the trades they
wish. The married people may either cook in their own cot-
tage, or in the public kitchen. The single men dine by them-
selves, as do also the single women. Provisions are very cheap;
mutton being only 4d. per lb. Mr. Vandeleur would wish a
thorough good co-operator would come among them-one
who well understood the woollen manufactory. He (Mr. V.)
had established a linen manufactory; but when the stuff was
brought to London, he was undersold by twenty per cent. It
81
was an excellent woollen county, however; almost every wo-
man being able to spin: but no one understood the manufac
turing of the wool. Women's wages were, upon the average,
5 d. per
diem; and 14lb. of potatoes could be purchased for lad.
He wished to impress on the minds of the landed proprietors
the great benefit that would result to them if they encouraged
co-operation.
A delegate here enquired what religion the society pro-
fessed?
Mr. MALONY answered, that the religion of the members
was never enquired into; there were in the society men of
all creeds, and they regularly attended their respective
chapels. Mr. Malony concluded his very interesting detail
amid the enthusiastic applause of the meeting.
DISTRICT DIVISIONS.
The following resolutions were next adopted, after some
discussion :-
1. That the United Kingdom be divided into district divi-
sions, and that a district council be established in each
division.
2. That the following be the several district divisions at
which councils shall be appointed to correspond gene-
rally with each other:-1. London, 2. Birmingham, 3.
Manchester, 4. Glasgow, 5. Belfast, 6. Dublin, 7. Cork,
8. Edinburgh, 9. Norwich.
3. That the following persons he now appointed mem
bers of the respective representative councils in the
respective places named, with power to add to their
number:-London, Messrs. Styles, M'Diarmid, Fowler,
Wigg, Flather, Warden, T. Powell. Birmingham,
Messrs. Pare, John Powell, Bishop. Glasgow, Messrs.
Harriston, W. Harriston, Campbell, Hamilton, Simp-
son, Miller, Boyd, B. Gray, Williamson, Macdonald.
Belfast, Messrs. Beattie, Kennedy, M'Cormac. Dublin,
Cork, Mr. Thompson. Edinburgh, Messrs.
Mudie, J. Gray, W. Sheddon. Norwich, Messrs. Wise-
man, Bullen, Dent.
4. Resolved, That a circular be sent from the London
council to the respective councils, to make arrangements
in accordance with the previous resolutions, to urge
their immediate attention to the matter, and that they be
particularly requested to transmit, as early as possible,
information of what they have done, to the London
council.
Resolved, That these councils shall be empowered to manage
the general measures calculated to promote the advance-
ment of the principles and practice of co-operation,
including arrangements for extensive missionary exer-
tion, in conformity with the instructions they receive
from this congress.
82
The congress then adopted the following regulations for
the guidance of the various district councils:-
1st. They shall meet once a week, if convenient, or oftener,
if necessary.
2. They shall appoint and assist all co-operative missionaries
in their district by funds, or other such means as they
have in their power.
3. They shall communicate frequently with the societies in
their respective districts, either by letter or personal
visitation.
4. They shall assist in the formation of co-operative societies,
and of labour exchanges, where practicable, and do all
in their power to secure the welfare of every society in
their district.
5. They shall report to the London council, on the first
Monday in every month; and the London council shall
report, within 14 days after to each of the councils in the
United Kingdom.
6. The expenses of each council shall be defrayed by volun-
tary contributions or subscriptions in the district in
which it is situated, by the members of co-operative so-
cieties or others; and that the council of districts be
requested to require that their respective secretaries keep
a list of such members as may be able and willing to fur-
nish missionaries with accommodation."
7. In any district where the congress may be in future held,
the council for the time being shall have the power of
calling the same, and shall superintend all the arrange-
ments relative thereto.
Mr. JACKSON having stated that some complaints had been
alleged against Mr. Hirst, in reference to the Manchester con-
tributions to the missionary fund, that gentleman was per-
mitted to vacate the chair, which was occupied by Mr. Thoinp-
son. and satisfactorily purged himself from the imputations.
The Congress then adjourned till the next morning.
•
Thursday, April 26.-Seven o'clock, Morning.
Mr. HIRST was again called to the chair
Mr. PARE moved, "That the report of the whole proceed-
ings of the Congress be printed in the form of a pamphlet, and
published for the use of the co-operative societies throughout
the kingdom; and that the editing of the same be entrusted
to Mr. Carpenter, who was engaged in reporting the pro-
ceedings."
Mr. MARSHALL seconded the motion, which was adopted
unanimously, and 2000 copies ordered to be printed.
+
LETTERS TO CONGRESS.
Mr. PARE then read a number of letters that had been ad-
dressed to the Congress from various societies.*
* See Appendix.
83
Mr. EATON, on the reading of a letter from Huddersfield,
took occasion to remark, that much of the money which he
received as agent of the North Western Co-operative Associ-
ation at Liverpool, came to him directly, instead of coming
through the bank. This mode of remittance not only prevented
the bank from perceiving the extent of business which the
association did, but engendered jealousies in some socie-
ties, the members of which might imagine their money not
secure in his hands. He therefore hoped that all remittances
would be made through the bank.
Mr. CARSON made some observations on co-operative stores,
and said, that many of the failures arose from the members
drawing out their money. Where this practice was allowed,
no society could exist.
Mr. STYLES said, a division of capital had caused the em-
barrassment and probable ruin of the Westminster Society, to
which he belonged, which had also been seriously injured by
admitting credit into the system.
Mr. CALDWELL remarked, on the reading of a letter from
the Manchester economical co-operative society, that the
number of societies in that town had been reduced from ten
to four, in consequence of adopting Mr. Fry's system in
conducting their affairs of trade, and that if the mode in
which they had acted, were any where adopted, ruin must
ensue.
Mr. FOWLER thought that if trading co-operative societies
were established at all, they should sell as cheap as possible;
for if it were found that the commodities which they sold
might be purchased cheaper elsewhere, the co-operative
stores would of course be deserted, as had been the case in
Manchester.
Mr. SKEVINGTON observed, that the trading societies in
Manchester had attempted to undersell, which caused their
ruin, as it introduced the destructive system of compe-
tition.
Mr. SIMPSON said that the whole of such remarks might be
resolved into one great item, which was the necessity of
establishing labour banks to facilitate the interchange of the
productions of industry.
Mr. CARSON, in answer to a remark which had fallen from
Mr. Fowler, said, that the co-operative stores in Manchester
had always been able to sell as cheap as their neighbours.
The report of the Committee appointed to correct the
minutes of the previous congress was then brought up, and
received; as was also the report of the committee appointed
to audit the report of the Liverpool Co-operative Company.
NORTH WESTERN CO-OPERATIVE COMPANY.
Mr. CARSON suggested that the trustees of the north
84
1
western co-operative company should be discharged, and
that new ones should be elected.
Mr. PARE enquired whether security had been given by
the Liverpool agent?
Mr. CARSON replied, that security had not been given.
When a trust deed should have been executed between the
society and the agent, the latter was prepared to give
security.
Mr. PARE observed, that for the satisfaction of the
numerous parties connected with this institution, security
onght to be immediately given, and he was not aware that a
trust deed was required previous to the giving of the secu-
rity. He therefore moved, that the trustees be requested to
obtain such security from the agent as they deem necessary.
Mr. HIRST said, that from the resolutions of the congress
by which the trustees were appointed, he did not perceive
distinctly whether a regular formal trust-deed was required.
He thought that all those who signed their names as trustees
by the preceding appointment, were responsible, as such, to
society. The question was, whether the concern at Liver-
pool was secure in being founded on such a plan.
Mr. WAYLAND, the barrister, being in the room, was
applied to, as to the necessity of a formal trust deed being
executed. He thought it a matter of some doubt, and sug-
gested that counsel's opinion should be taken upon the
subject.
PETITIONS TO PARLIAMENT.
Mr. PARE reported, that in conformity with the directions
given him at the last sitting of congress, he had forwarded
the petition then adopted to the Lord Chancellor, and D.
O'Connell, Esq., for presentation to either House of Parlia-
ment. He had not, however, received any reply from either,
and the petitions had not been presented.
It was therefore resolved by the congress, that the secre-
tary do write to the Lord Chancellor and Mr. O'Connell, to
ascertain the reason of their neglect.
Mr. PARE then moved the appointment of a committe to
draw up a case relative to the North West of England Co-
operative Company, to submit for the opinion of counsel,
which, being seconded by Mr. BENBOW, was carried, and
Messrs. Wayland, Carson, and Thompson, appointed as the
Committee.
-
Messrs. Hirst, of Huddersfield, Carson, of Liverpool, Wil-
son, of Halifax, Gaskill, of Kendal, Johnson, of Worsley,
Skevington, of Loughborough, and Duckworth, of Birkacre,
were then appointed trustees for the co-operative company
of Liverpool; and a resolution was adopted to the effect, that
the agent of the company be required to give security.
85
INCIPIENT COMMUNITY.
Mr. PARE then read the resolutions (5, 7, 8) of the last
congress (held at Birmingham), for the appointment of a
committee to take the necessary steps towards the immediate
formation of a community upon the social system; and also
the report of the Committee, as follows:--
REPORT
OF THE COMMITTEE APPOINTED BY THE SIXTH RESOLUTION OF
THE LAST MEETING OF CONGRESS,
To take the necessary steps towards the immediate forma-
tion of a Community upon the Social System, in accord-
ance with the Seventh and Eighth Resolutions of the
Meeting of Congress, held in Manchester, in May, 1831.
Your Committee report that they held several meetings, imme-
diately after the breaking up of Congress, at Robert Owen's In-
stitution, Burton Street, Burton Crescent, London. P. D. Massey
Dawson, Esq. was appointed Honorary Secretary, and Mr. Benja-
min Warden Sub-Secretary, pro tempore. Messrs. Samuel Austin,
Francis French, and John Dempsey, were appointed Trustees, and
Messrs. Prescott, Grote and Co. of Threadneedle Street, London,
Bankers. In October, the following Circular was adopted and
printed, and, after some unavoidable delay, 250 copies were for-
warded to as many societies in the country, and to each member
of the committee not residing in London.
CIRCULAR TO THE CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES
OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND, and
TO SUCH INDIVIDUALS AS MAY WISH TO FURTHER THEIR
VIEWS'
At the Second Co-operative Congress held at Birmingham,
October 4th and 5th, 1831, and continued by adjournment to the
6th, it was resolved,
1. That a council be now appointed to carry out the resolution
of the First Congress held at Manchester, viz. That a Co-
perative Community be formed.'
<
(
11. That this Congress considers it highly desirable that a Com-
munity, on the principles of Mutual Co-operation, United
Possessions, and Equality of Exertions, and of the Means of
Enjoyment,' should be established in England, as speedily as
possible, in order to show the practicability of the co-ope-
rative system; and, further, it is the opinion of this Congress,
that such Community may be formed by the means recently
suggested by the First Birmingham Co-operative Society,'
contained in the following resolution of that society, and pub-
lished in Carpenter's Political Letter,' April 30, 1831.
That this society, fully sensible of the great advantages that
would result from the speedy formation of an Incipient Co-
operative Community, upon the plan laid down by Mr. Wil-
liam Thompson, will make immediate application to one hun-
dred and ninety-nine other Co-operative Societies, in order
I
1
86
to obtain their concurrence to a project of electing a mem-
ber of each society, and supplying him, in such a manner as
they shall deem best, with the sum of 30., in order that an
Incipient Community of 60001. may immediately be formed
in some part of England.
III. That Subscriptions of 31. deposit, on shares of 301. each,
for the purpose of forming a Community on the basis and
plans contained in the foregoing resolution, be received from
the Trading Fund Associations, or from individuals wishing
to join the Community; and that, as soon as 200 shall be en-
gaged, the Secretary shall call a meeting, where he may
dcem it most convenient to the majority of the Subscribers,
to proceed in the formation of such Community.
Co-operative Societies, or individuals desirous for the formation
of a Community, are requested to forward their deposits, as soon
as possible, to the account of the Trustees, Messrs. Samuel Austin,
Francis French, and John Dempsey, at Messrs. Prescott, Grote,
and Co., Bankers, Threadneedle Street, London, or to either of
the members of the Council residing in their neighbourhood, that
it may be forwarded, without loss of time, to the Bankers in Lon
don. No part of these deposits will be used by the Council, or
any other persons but the future Community itself, for any pur.
pose whatever. All deposits shall be returned, if demanded,
should the land not be purchased within one year after the 200
shares shall have been taken up. As soon as the shares are all
disposed of, a meeting of the shareholders shall be called in Lon-
don, or any place more convenient to a majority of the sharehold
ers, when they shall (assisted by the Council) take all subsequent
arrangements into their own hands.
N. B. Societies and individuals, after making a deposit, must
send an intimation of the same to the Sub-Secretary, Mr. Benja
min Warden, at Robert Owen's Institution, Burton Street, Burton
Crescent, London, post paid, with name and address, for registry
by the Secretary,
*
(Here followed the name and address of the Secretary.)
Your Committee regret to state, that they have received replies
from only two societies, namely, the "First Birmingham," who
have sent to the bankers 67., as deposit for two shares, and from
the Kendal Society, who have expressed their desire to subscribe
for a share or shares, but who have not remitted any deposit.
Your Committee conceive that one reason why so little has been
done towards the formation of the proposed Community is, that
many of the societies have embarked their capital in purchasing
raw materials and machinery, for the purpose of employing their
members in manufactures, whilst others have been appropriating
their share of capital, in the way of subscriptions, to assist in the
formation of the "North-West of England Co-operative Company,"
which they have considered the best calculated, for the present, to
advance their interests.
•
Your Committee trusts that the steps these societies have
severally taken will enable them, at no distant period, to join the
projected Community.
The SECRETARY also read such letters and documents as
87
had been received by the committee, containing offers and
suggestions relative to the community.
Mr. WARDEN requested to withdraw as secretary, pro. tem.
to the committee.-Agreed to.
Mr. THOMPSON explained the reasons why the committee
had done so little in this business. Six persons, living in differ-
ent parts of the kingdom, were upon the committee, the majority
of them being resident in London; and it was of course ex-
pected that the latter would meet and act more efficiently than
the others. Himself, however, with another or two of those
resident at a distance, had come to London for the purpose of
beginning practical operations; and as far as preliminary
measures were concerned, they had done their duty. A circu-
lar had been drawn up, and sent round to the societies. Mr.
Owen, however, who was upon that committee, proposed that
they should form themselves into a committee for universal
correspondence, alleging that to be the large object for which
they were really appointed, and not for the mere petty or
little purpose of forming a committee. For his (Mr. Owen's)
part, he would not consent to have his name associated with
any committee who was for making a beginning with a
smaller sum than 240,0001. That had rather startled the com-
mittee, and Mr. Owen deliberately withdrew his name from
the committee, saying, he would give them all the assistance
he could, as an individual, but he would have no responsible
connection with a thing not started upon a proper basis. This
circumstance had paralysed the exertions of the committee;
but he (Mr. T.) was always not only ready, but anxious to
co-operate with the rest, whenever he saw that any thing was
likely to be done. He trusted that the congress would now
appoint another committee, consisting of practical men, who
would be ready and determined to go forward in realising their
object.
Messrs. STYLES, AUSTIN, and WARDEN, severally explained
the circumstances in which the committee had been placed, for
the purpose of showing, that although they had effected
nothing, it had not arisen from negligence or apathy on their
parts. The report was then adopted.
Mr. BISHOP read a resolution passed by the first society at
Birmingham, explanatory of their views of the importance of
forming an incipient community, and enforced upon the con-
gress the propriety and necessity of maturing and acting upon
some plan for this purpose.
Mr. PARE was sure that there was a sufficient number of socie-
ties in the kingdom to realize an incipient community, if the
measures necessary for the purpose were now taken. For his
part, he had been disappointed that so few shares had been
subscribed for, the fact being, that persons were desirous to
know something about the details of the project. A full pro-
I 2
88
spectus, comprising all the necessary information should be
drawn up and circulated, and then there would be no want of
subscribers. On the previous evening, the result of a desultory
conversation among a few of the delegates had been a sub-
scription of twelve pounds.
Mr. LOVETT concurred with Mr. Pare, and felt assured
that if ever the world was to realise the happy state of society
promised by Mr. Owen, it must be through the medium of such
incipient communities as they were now contemplating.
Living, as they now did, in the midst of difficulties and dis-
tresses, weighed down by anxiety for the subsistence of them-
selves and their children, they were not only prevented from
acquiring the requisite knowledge for a perfect state of com-
munity, but the requisite dispositions also. He urged upon the
congress to prepare and adopt some plan of proceeding before
they left this subject.
The Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT was also desirous to see an incipi-
ent community formed, and if it were necessary he would give
up his profession, and with his family enter such a society.
Mr. NASH, of Sheffield, doubted whether the co-operators
were yet sufficiently informed to realise a community, and also
whether they could compete with capitalists in the market.
Mr. OWEN next addressed the congress. He said he had
heard much about the necessity of forming a community, but
he had heard nothing proposed that was likely to be success-
ful. It would be necessary first to understand the princi-
ples on which the community was to be formed. If it were
intended that the members should subsist upon the produce of
their own labour, independent of all transactions with the ex-
ternal world, the arrangements must be very different to what
they would be, did they intend to come into competition with
it. The former plan was the one to which he thought the con-
gress should look; and if so, they had a most important ob-
ject before them. They would find, in this case, that no small
community could succeed; and he was of opinion, indeed,
that a small community would not do, even if it were intended
to compete with the external world. In fact, he was fully satis-
fied that a large community might be formed with more ease,
and in a shorter time, than a small one; besides which, the
one would give satisfaction to the members and the public,
while the other would disappoint all, and throw back most
materially the progress of the cause. It was in consequence of
repudiating his opinions, that the Orbiston Society failed.
That society was not the tenth part of a community; it was
not formed upon community principles, but in direct opposi-
tion to them, and that from the beginning to the end. It had
been said that the community at New Lanark and the commu-
nity at New Harmony had failed; but nothing could be more
ridiculous, for there had been nothing like a community in
89
either place. He had found the people to be in a state not to
act in community; they were not competent to govern them-
selves. The moment they began to act, he found they could
not do so much in a year, as he and those who acted with him.
could do in a day: their whole time was spent in talking.
After all, however, he was glad to see the anxiety on this sub-
ject; he was glad to see so many persons at length convinced
that there were no means of mending the old state of society.
Had there been the same anxiety manifested in 1817, when he
(Mr. O.) came forward, the world would by this time have
been a perfect paradise. If they were now ready for this,
however, he had no doubt that their object might be realised.
A friend had offered 420 acres of good land, within seventeen
miles of London, at 17. 2s. 6d. an acre, tithe-free; and it was
of great importance that land for a community should be tithe-
free. This land-which adjoined 1100 acres belonging to a
gentleman who would, he had no doubt, do what he could to
serve them-might be had upon lease for twenty-one years, with
liberty to extend the term to any period they chose, or to
purchase it for ever. Its situation, too, was admirably adapted
for their purpose; for their first community should be within
a circle of thirty miles from London-not nearer than twelve
miles, nor farther than thirty. Then, also, he had no doubt,
if they were sufficiently advanced for this, that they might find
men of capital and builders, who would assist them with what
they might want, upon such security as they would have it in
their power to offer. To succeed as a community, however,
their arrangements must combine a due proportion of capital
and labour to produce the various kinds of wealth the inhabit-
ants would require, both for their own use, and for the purpose
of exchanging for such articles as they could not themselves
produce. It must also comprise a proper combination for dis-
tributing their productions beneficially for each individual,
and also for training and forming the character of each indivi-
dual in the most beneficial and economical manner. It must
also comprise arrangements which would give them the most
simple, cheap, and efficient government. All this was capable
of being effected in a rightly constituted community. Every
person present, probably, had his own views of a community;
but he believed them all to differ most materially from his
views; and he further believed that none of their plans, when
attempted, would succeed. It was on that account that he
withdrew his name from the committee that had been ap-
pointed at the last congress, for he would not give the sanction
of his name to what he believed would be a failure. But let no
man suppose that he was indifferent upon this subject; he
could not be indifferent. No man could feel more deeply in-
terested in it than he did: and no man would sacrifice more
1 3
90
than he would to see a community realised. All he wanted
was, that those who were now so desirous to effect this object
should see the difficulties as well as the advantages of the un-
dertaking. Mr. Owen concluded his remarks by observing,
that he was satisfied that our own government, as well as all
the governments of Europe, was fully satisfied of the truth
and value of his principles, and was extremely desirous to
adopt them. At present they could not do so, for the people
were not prepared for the change. They only waited for the
public opinion to be formed and matured, to effect those happy
changes which co-operation was adapted to realise.
Mr. LovETT rose, and said that himself, Mr. PARE, and
Mr. STYLES had taken an opportunity to retire for a few mo-
ments to draw up a resolution upon this subject, which he
would now submit for adoption. It was to the following
effect:-
Wed
Resolved, that this Congress, deeply impressed with the
growing evils of the present competitive system, and anxious
that arrangements should be made to place the industrious.
classes beyond its devastating and irritating influence, are
determined to renew and redouble their exertions to establish,
as speedily as possible, a community upon the principles of
mutual co-operation, united possessions, and equality of exer-
tions, and of the means of enjoyments.'
""
In supporting the resolution, Mr. Lovett replied to some of
Mr. Owen's arguments against the kind of incipient com-
munity they now proposed, and forcibly urged upon the con-
gress the necessity of doing something for themselves and the
working class, generally, without waiting for the government
to take them by the hand.
Mr. PARE seconded the resolution, and expressed his opinion
that Mr. Owen had not only too highly estimated the contin-
gent results of his own proceedings in opening the purses of
the affluent, but that he had also too meanly estimated the
capabilities and powers of the labouring classes.
Mr. FINCH, Mr. MANDLEY, the Rev. Mr. DUNN and Mr.
STYLES, severally supported the resolution; as did Mr. Sımp-
SON also. This delegate, in the course of his remarks, defended
the inhabitants of Orbiston community, and attributed its
failure to the mismanagement of the monied proprietors, who
had an interest in direct opposition to that of the working
members.
Mr. WIGG corroborated the statement of Mr. Simpson rela-
tive to the Orbiston community, and supported the motion
before the chair, as did also Messrs. Beatson aud Caldwell.
Mr. FLATHER contended that the co-operators were not yet
fit for community; there was neither enough knowledge nor
enough good feeling amongst them for such a state.
91
Mr. WARDEN combatted the statements of his colleague,
Mr. Flather; but even if he admitted them to be true, he could
not see that they furnished any argument against a community.
Was it likely, he asked, that they could become much wiser
or better while they remained in the present wretched state of
society? He denied that they could, and therefore he was for
an attempt to form an incipient and experimental community.
Mr. OWEN then addressed the congress. What wisdom (he
would ask) would there be in taking a savage from the wilds
of America, who could not tell the difference that existed
between the numbers 5 and 10; and placing him in Cambridge
University to teach the professors mathematics? None!-
Practicable methods must be tried. For forty years had he
been labouring to try the effects of a community. He pur-
chased Lanark of its proprietors, for the purpose of establishing
his system, but he knew that he would not make any great
progress, except he returned a profit for the capital embarked in
the establishment. He carried on his arrangements there for
14 or 15 years, and during the last five years he was enabled
to pay six per cent. interest for the capital. When he first
took the establishment, the population was idle, dissolute, in-
efficient, and immoral in the highest degree. The first effect
of his system, was to produce a complete change in their cha-
racter, and he left them a most moral and industrious body.
The next object obtained, was that the children were educated
at 3s. per year, and got as good instruction as they would for
3001. in London. The next good object attained was that the
children were not overworked, they were not put to labour un-
til they arrived at the age of ten years, and then the labour
was proportioned to their strength. During twenty-nine
years, there was not a single instance where it was necessary
to apply to a magistrate. He himself was a magistrate, but
never acted in his capacity,-the punishments were pecuniary
fines, and went towards the establishment of a sick fund. He
was told at first, that his plan was visionary; but the reason
was, because it was not understood. Extensive combination
was in no way new to him. He had never ceased to labour to
discover the shortest time it would take to form a successful
community, and he looked forward to the great good that
would result from meeting congress. The meeting had men-
tioned that £6,000 ought to be advanced towards Mr. Thomp-
son's plan. Now, he (Mr. Owen) had the greatest possible
teem for Mr. Thompson, but he begged leave to assure him
that he knew little of this matter. 6,000., 20,000., or even
60,000,, would be of little avail; but if they were united as
one man, and fully determined to prosecute their plan, many a
man on the stock exchange would be willing to advance capi-
tal. There were many money-holders favourable to co-
A
92
operation, when they found it just in a practical point of
view-men of good genuine principles; and some had said,
that if an intelligible and satisfactory statement were put be-
fore them, they would advance capital to almost any amount,
at four per cent. Mr. Owen then proceeded to make some
observations on the excellent security a community could
offer a security of land-of buildings about to be erected, of
a superior kind—and of the daily industry of the people, who
by their exertions would enhance the value of the property.
He was glad to see the meeting so impatient to proceed, and
he advised them strongly to lose no time in making proposals
to monied men to advance capital at four per cent, on the se-
curity he mentioned.
The meeting then adjourned until seven o'clock.
Mr. WATKINS having been called to the Chair, the Con-
gress resumed its sitting at the hour just mentioned.
Mr. CARSON rose and said, that many persons in Lan-
cashire had serious intentions of forming a community. The
Worsley co-operatives were also eager to form one, having
found that they might get a vast quantity of uncultivated land
at 11. per acre. Near Liverpool, he also thought they could
find means to get 1,000 acres, and the only thing wanting to
make it valuable, was labour. One man ought to be sent from
every co-operative society. They would support and erect a
cottage for him; but pay no wages. If such a plan were
adopted, in a few years it would be made a valuable estate.
After reading the works of Messrs. Owen and Thompson, the
people were anxious to commence a community.
C
Mr. HIRST said, no subject delighted him more than the
present, and nothing should be wanting on his part towards at-
taining such a desirable object. It appeared to him, that all
things were working for their good. He earnestly beseeched
them, however, not to allow themselves to be carried away by
wrong calculations; they should not attempt a community
without a certainty of success.
The Rev. Mr. DUNN felt great pleasure in perfectly coin-
ciding with Mr. Owen's sentiments.
Mr. PETRIE said he stood on principle; he was a true dis-
ciple of Mr. Owen's, and had a wife who would follow him
into community. Though a humble mechanic, he had ap-
plied himself diligently to the study of co-operation.
Mr. THOMPSON said, they imagined two-kinds of commu
nities; one of which would be a state of bliss, the other a kind
of superior workhouse or workshops for the poor. The fabric
should be erected at once, which imagination conceives to be
the most perfect, if they had the means. If, however, he
could get a sufficient capital, and 2,000 individuals together,
he would not despair but that in a short period he would show
93
to the world, an institution that might even please Mr. Owen;
he thought the security Mr. Owen offered would not be satis-
factory enough to the money holders.
Mr. OWEN said, one of the capitalists told him within a
short period, that he had not sufficiently understood his system;
but that now, finding it excellent, he was willing to aid it.
Mr. THOMPSON said, if we cannot get up a first-rate com-
munity at once, let us begin on a small scale; if we wish to
ameliorate the condition of the poor, we should be content with
a community such as he described. He then alluded to the
Dutch communities, which were on such a bad sandy soil,
but, in a few years, became a most excellent and bountiful one,
by unceased labour and tillage. Their object was, to put a
stop to beggary; and if we could not accomplish what they
did, we must be stupid indeed. As to the consideration whe-
ther or not we should proceed to operations without the assist-
ance of great wealth, he would say that it could well be
dispensed with, as Mr. Vandeleur's establishment in Clare
clearly demonstrated; and where they were employing many
Irish labourers who had only 57. per year to support themselves
and families, and to purchase clothes, &c. &c. There was one
wise part of Mr. Vandeleur's system. It was extremely diffi-
cult to get ignorant people to work, when they considered that
they had not some individual motive for it; committees,
therefore, regulated every evening the work for the ensuing day,
for every man, woman, child, and beast; there were, therefore,
no idlers among them, and each worked with cheerfulness.
They soon found out the secret, that if one or two stopped
working, the whole produce would soon be lessened; and the
force of public opinion, caused each person to exert himself the
!
more.
Mr OWEN said, to ensure success, a complete unity must
pervade the whole-committees and majorities would never
answer; there would be too much confusion. He had found
by thirty years' experience, that people could not act for them-
selves in a community. There must be some conducting
head. He went to America to try the experiment, and would
have no objection to try any experiment.
Mr. LoverT did not like that one man should have the
absolute_government of many useful and practical men. It
savoured, he thought, of despotism. Committees of arrange.
ment were of great use; though a little time might be lost,
valuable information might be gained. The meeting had
wandered from the question, which was, whether they should
commence an incipient community.-Mr. Owen was against
going into a community without very large funds. Now,
why wait for others to do that which they could do for them-
selves? He thought working men ought to come forward,
and commence operations at once.
Mr OWEN said, no one was more opposed to despotism
!
94
than he was; but such a combination as they had in view,
could only be effected by the direction of one mind. He
would put an end to despotism, and would give to every
child, when it was born, his full share in the government of
the world. He would wish perfect equality. He acknow-
ledged no man as above him, and no man was beneath him.
Mr. THOMPSON asked Mr. Owen if he had taken care to
give to the world, after his own death, the valuable know-
ledge he possesed.
Mr. OWEN replied, that it had always been present to his
mind, and that he had taken all the steps that occurred to
him to render his own life of as little importance as possible.
He had written his opinions, and had constructed models;
but it was impossible he could convey in books or models the
whole of the experience he had, or the spirit of the interesting
conversations he had held with Monroe, Jefferson, and other
great minds, who had ceased to exist in this world. He be-
lieved, however, that the aristocracy were better acquainted
with the system than his friends were aware of, and that they
were only waiting for the people to be prepared for it, in order
to join them. He intended, as soon as funds admitted of it,
to have a large model erected which practical men could work
from. Mr. Owen concluded the discussion by saying, that
now was the time for every man to exhibit his moral courage,
and that if they were determined, and would follow up the
plan of co-operation, this pandemonium of existing society
would soon be changed to a state of happiness-to a terrestial
paradise. Let them adhere to the truth and they had nothing
to fear; the victory was won. (Cheering.) He did not care
if all men deserted him; he would be of the same opinion
still, for he knew they would all come back to him.
Mr. LOVETT's resolution was then put and carried, as
were also the following:
“That every delegate and visitor to the Congress here pre-
sent, and so disposed, do now sign his name to a paper prepared
for that purpose, whether on his act, or for the society he re-
presents as a subscriber to the proposed community, and pay
at least one pound deposit.
"That Messrs. Thompson, Pare, and Wigg, be appointed to
draw up a prospectus for a community."
The meeting then adjourned till seven o'clock on the
following morning.
Friday morning, 7 o'clock.
The discussion on the Incipient Community was resumed.
MR. LOVETT said, he hoped that when the plan was
matured, and carried into effect, the members of the commu-
nity would be chosen from among co-operative and working
persons, and that no one would be allowed to buy five or
six shares, and put in who he liked.
95
Mr. THOMPSON moved, that as soon as 100 names
were subscribed, individuals be appointed to take at least
400 acres of land, on lease for ever, or with liberty of pur-
chase; and that they be responsible, as trustees, for this pur-
pose.
Messrs. Thompson, Hamilton, Hoskins, and Bromley, were
then appointed as fit persons to determine on the choice and
purchase of lands.
Mr. PARE said, he hoped it would be remembered, that
when individuals subscribed, the subscription included only
themselves, and not their wives, should they be married.
Mr. STYLES then moved that a committee be formed, con-
sisting of the following persons, in London, whose duty it
shall be to make the necessary arrangements to convene a
meeting of subscribers so soon as 100 names shall be on the
list, and to render any assistance and facility in correspond-
ence, &c. to the gentlemen appointed to purchase the land.
—Names, Messrs. Lovett, Simpson, Wigg, Tucker, Warden
and Styles.
LABOUR BANK EXCHANGE.
The report of the committee appointed to revise the
address to the co-operators upon this subject was nex
brought up, and read as follows:
ADDRESS OF THE CO-OPERATIVE DELEGATES IN
CONGRESS ASSEMBLED, TO THE INDUSTRIOUS
CLASSES OF THE UNITED KINGDOM, AND MORE
ESPECIALLY TO THEIR CO-OPERATIVE BRETHREN.1
·
IN addressing our Co-operative brethren, as well as those of the
Competitive world, it will be needless to refer to the distress and
misery that exist amongst the productive classes in general, as too
many of them unfortunately feel more acutely than we can de-
scribe, the severe effects of this wretchedness: nor will it, we pre-
sume, be advisable in the compass we purpose devoting to this ad-
dress, to point out to them all the causes that have conspired to
occasion it. Suffice it to say, that we are of opinion that the spirit
of rivalry or competition that every where pervades society, com-
bined with machinery and our new powers of production, have
been mainly instrumental in bringing things to their present crisis.
Those powers which the most ignorant and unlettered will easily
perceive tend to abridge human labour, and consequently ought to
be a blessing, are owing to an individual and competitive state of
society, the greatest curses that can befal mankind. Although
gentlemen of fixed salaries or monied incomes, who benefit by the
cheap productions of machinery, have endeavoured by every so-
phistical argument to prove its blessings and utility, yet you, friends,
whose wages have been reduced in proportion to this cheapness, or
whose labour has been superseded by its invention, can fairly esti-
mate the motives and intentions of those who thus write, or those
who now address you. We do not call upon you to conspire for
96
the destruction or the abolition of machines, as such conduct is
highly to be contemned, as exhibiting the most savage barbarism
or incredulity; but we call upon you to unite, to Co-operate, for
the purpose of possessing so valuable a power in your own circle,
and thus render it the greatest of blessings. To effect so desirable
an object, you should cast aside your petty jealousies and selfish
feelings, and with singleness of purpose and firmness of heart, re-
solve to combat and remove every difficulty that may seem to ob-
struct your path. Look around and you may learn an important
lesson; you may see those who profit by your dissensions, or who
riot in excess on the fruits of your industry, cordially united to per-
petuate the system of injustice if possible. Place no vain hopes in
believing that those who live by injustice will interest themselves in
justice to you. They may be ignorant, and possibly unconscious of
the tendency of their own actions. Make every exertion, however,
to better your own condition, to inform your minds, instruct your
families; and without solicitation receive with gratitude the generous
assistance proffered you; do this and your emancipation is at hand.
It may be asked how can we best effect this object, seeing we are
poor, ignorant, and necessitous? We answer by peaceably uniting,
by co-operating, after the plan adopted by the Co-operative Socie-
ties, hundreds of which are now established in most parts of the
united kingdom. Their mode of commencement has been to sub-
scribe their three pences and sixpences weekly, for the purpose of
raising a general fund, with which sum they have begun trading or
dealing in such articles of food and clothing as they and their fami-
lies consumed. They have, as their little capital increased, began
by employing some of their members in manufacturing such articles
as are most in request amongst their co-operative brethren, or in the
general market. They have succeeded in several societies to an ex-
teut beyond their most sanguine expectations. It has given great
satisfaction to the members of this congress to witness the beautiful
specimens of woollens, linens, hats, shoes, stockings, and hardware,
of almost every description that has been exhibited. Several socie-
ties have made still greater progress, and have taken lands and tene-
ments, on which they have commenced employing their members in
agriculture and manufactures, and thus are in a fair way to obtain
what forms the ultimate object of most all co-operators, viz., com-
munity. Of the various societies which have been reported at the
congress, those of Birkacre in Lancashire, and Ralahine in Ireland,
seem the farthest in advance. The former is composed principally
of silk and cotton printers, to the amount of 3,000 members. They
have lately taken an estate of 120 acres, with the mansion of a cot-
ton lord thereon, and are now employing 300 of their members.
The latter was established by M. Vandelour, late sheriff of the
county of Clare, on 600 acres of land. He has set about seventy-
five families at work on the co-operative system. It will afford great
pleasure we are certain to all those who interest themselves in the cause
of humanity, to learn that no ardent spirits are allowed in the establish-
ment, by the consent of all parties; and that for the last twelve
months not one case of drunkenness, dissipation, or disposition to
quarrel, has been exhibited; and that those who entered the society
without shoes or stockings, and ragged beyond description, may be
now seen comfortably clad, and at the close of the day listening
•
97
with profound attention to lectures on ethics, chymistry, &c., and
those, too, delivered by members of the establishment. For the in-
formation of many who may not yet know what we mean by a
community, it may be necessary to state, that we, the members of
those trading and manufacturing societies, purpose, at no distant
day, we hope by our own exertions to rent or purchase a piece of
land proportionate to our numbers; and instead of being as now
confined in the dirty streets and alleys of large towns and cities, or
exposed to the inconveniences of an isolated life in the country, we
purpose locating thereon and having every useful trade among us,
build our own houses on very improved principles, make our own
clothing, raise our own food, educate our own children, equally
producing and possessing equal means of enjoying, all the comforts
and luxuries of life; and as machinery will save manual labour, the
more we can introduce the better. Thus by our united exertions,
we shall enjoy ten-fold the comforts and luxuries of life which are
now enjoyed by those amongst us who are considered favourably
circumstanced, free also from those cares and anxieties that now
perplex and distract us. We further believing, that most of the evil
passions that torment mankind, have been engendered by opposing
interests, consequently conceive the best remedy will be, united in-
terests and enjoyments.
you
This desirable object of a community we cannot, however, hope
to realize without great exertion, and unwearied attention on our
part; but as the scenes of misery behind us, afford us no hope, the
prospect before us should stimulate us to push forward with redoubled
ardour. In the Co-operative Trading Associations which are al-
ready established, there are immediate benefits worthy the attention
of the public, and renewed exertions on the part of the members.
One great point gained in effecting any considerable change in pub-
lic opinion is union, another knowledge-these are already con-
ferred by those societies; they have in general their libraries and
reading-rooms; they have also considerably benefitted their mem-
bers by affording them employment through the medium of labour
exchange notes. As the operation of this new and interesting sys-
tem has been successful in London and America, and may afford
some gratification to the public in general, we insert the following
rules and regulations of one of the London societies.
1st. That some part of the premises be appropriated for the recep-
tion of such articles or stores as any of the members or others may
be willing to deposit for exchange, being first approved of by a com-
mittee of management appointed by the members for any limited
period.
2nd. That the committee have power to examine, value, and re-
ceive such stores in exchange for notes, and to carry into effect such
other objects, and follow such directions as may be given them
from time to time, by a general meeting of the members.
3rd. That the committee shall meet twice a week, for the valu-
ation of goods and for the issuing of the notes.
4th. That the Exchange, or Society's Room, shall be open for the
inspection of members and the public.
5th. That an Exchanger, or Store-keeper, shall be appointed by.
the members, and give security for his trust.
K
98
6th. That every depositor shall state in writing the cost price of
the material used, and time consumed in the manufacture; and
shall be bound by the decision of the committee to the value of such
article, &c.
7th. That for every article deposited in the Exchange a receipt
shall be given to the Exchange-keeper, stating the nature and num-
ber of the articles deposited; and that such articles shall be laid
before the committee for their inspection and valuation, and if ap-
proved by them they shall direct that notes be given to the depo-
sitor representing their value.
-
8th. That proper books be provided, to keep the accounts in,
and also for all members out of employ and wishing for work to
insert their names, residences, and business, who shall be employed
in rotation, unless the persons requiring work done give a preference
to any other member.
9th. That any member sent to do work shall take with him a
note of the following form:
The bearer, No. is appointed by the society to work
for you, at
per hour.
To
N. B. Please to state the number of hours the beater was at
work for you. No payment is to be made but by the society.
And when the work is finished he shall deliver the same to the Ex-
change-keeper, who shall give him a receipt for such notes; and if
the committee is satisfied that the work has been done in a work.
manlike manner, they shall issue an Exchange or labour note re-
presenting its value.
10th. That all members so employed shall be paid in Exchange
or labour notes, and all persons employing them shall pay the so-
ciety in cash or notes.
11th. That every depositor or workman shall give the aforesaid
eceipt to the Exchange-keeper, upon receiving his labour-note.
12th. That all notes issued by the society shall contain the num
ber of the member (if issued to the public the name of the person),
to whom issued, the number and valuation of the article for which
it is issued, and the number of the note in the Exchange issue-
book, and if circulated they shall be especially indorsed by the
holder or circulator, and received by the Exchange-keeper in
exchange for all or any of the stores in the Exchange (according to
value) on being receipted by the payer.
13th. That one halfpenuy in the shilling shall be paid by all
members receiving Exchange notes for deposits of goods or
labour done, towards paying the expenses.
14th. That the Public and Co-operative Societies, and all others
not being members of the Society, be invited to send their property
for sale or exchange, at a price to be affixed by them in conjunc-
tion with the committee, they paying a commission of one halfpenny
in the shilling upon receiving Exchange notes for any goods sold or
exchanged.
15th. To prevent the forgery of the note, and fraud upon the
stores, the committee shall have power to make peculiar arrange-
ments, and adopt private criterions, for detect ng them.
16th. That all notes issued by the committee shall be in the name
99
&
of the Society and its Trustees, and shall be received from the
bearer by the Exchange-keeper, for any stores in his possession. *
Thus, by this simple operation, the shoemaker who was out of
employment, and needed the coat of the tailor, who also needed a
customer and was wanting shoes, have supplied each other; and
other trades in a similar manner. If the society has the capital,
it will of course employ the members, and pay them in labour-
notes. If it cannot afford to employ many trades, many members
may possess capital themselves, and by this exchange will be able
to dispose of such articles they may manufacture, when, without
this arrangement, their capital and themselves might be idle. If the
societies in a neighbourhood unite and have one exchange depot
between them, they may save expense, and enlarge their circle of
commodities. If they unite in counties or districts, and let their
notes be exchangeable from one society to others, they will still fur-
ther extend their operations, by embracing more articles in their
circle of exchanges. Our benevolent friend, Mr. Owen, in con-
junction with his council, is making arrangements for opening ex-
tensive apartments in his institution Grays' Inn-road, for the pur-
pose of facilitating exchanges, by means of labour notes, between
all the societies in the united kingdom; and before the next Congress
we trust we shall have the gratifying news of the establishment of
labour banks, and of the circulation of labour notes, from John
o'Groats to the Land's-end.
We trust we have said sufficient to cause our Co-operative bre-
thren to renew their exertions in the good cause; also to induce
the members of trade and benefit societies to enquire whether they
cannot apply their immense funds to more beneficial purposes than
in investing them in savings banks, &c. In fact, we hope all who
feel the effects of the present system, as well as those who feel for
its victims, will interest themselves, and assist by every means in
*FORM OF A LABOUR-NOTE.
London,
59, Poland Street.
First Western Union Exchange
Bank.
for Stores.
No. 878
Note.
No. 387
1832, May 1
Deliver Exchange Stores to Members No. 29, or Order on
demand to the amount of
shillings
pence.
S.
d.
By order of the Trustees,
""
W. HASKINS.
J. WINMINS.
F. R.
N. B. The counterpart on the left hand side of the scale.
K 2
100
their power those who show such a laudable disposition to help
themselves.
After some discussion, the report was unanimously adopted.
POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS OPINIONS.
Mr. OWEN then rose and said, many gentlemen had enter-
tained an erroneous idea relative to his system, namely, that
no person could be admitted into a co-operative community
without subscribing to all his principles. This error might
be removed by adopting the following resolution-
"Whereas the co-operative world contains persons of
every religious sect, and of every political party, it is
resolved, that co-operators, as such, jointly and severally, are
not pledged to any political, religious, or irreligious tenets
whatever; neither those of Mr. Owen nor of any other
vidual.'
Dr. WADE seconded the motion.
Mr. WIGG asked Mr. Owen if he had not recanted some
of his opinions?
Mr. OWEN said he never had occasion to recant any one
of his principles; his system embraced the whole human
race, and excluded no party whatever. It broke down all
the petty divisions that served to divide man from man, nor
had he the slightest ill-feeling towards any man, however he
might differ from him in opinion.
Mr. THOMPSON corroborated Mr. Owen's statement, and his
opinion went hand in hand with him. It was not necessary to
adopt all Mr. Owen's tenets, in order to co-operate with him.
Rev. Mr. MARRIOTT said he had been requested to come for-
ward to make some observations on the important subject be-
fore them. It was indeed a subject of very great importance.
Whatever views a Radical Reformer might entertain relative
to the benefiting of society, it was morally impossible he could
ameliorate the condition of mankind so far as the Co-operator,
who acted upon a system that embraced the whole human race;
a system that acknowledged all men to be the creatures of cir-
cumstances, and forgave the failings of every one, from the king
to the poorest peasant (great cheering).
Rev. Mr. DUNN said religion should never be the bone of
contention. For his part, he considered the philanthropic
sceptic far better than the hypocritical orthodox believer. His
religion said that those prayed best who loved all men
(cheers).
Mr. HIRST said that, for his part, he could not see what theo-
logical opinions had to do with the social system at all.
Mr. OWEN considered that the time had arrived when they
should bow to no other authority but that of truth. With per
mission of the Congress he would read a portion of the creed
and duties of the religion of his system: to which he expected
101
not one in that Congress could object. Mr. Owen then read
the following
ARTICLES.
"1. That all facts yet known to man indicate, that there is an
external or internal cause of all existences by the fact of their ex-
istence; that this All-pervading cause of motion and change in
the universe, is the Power which the nations of the world have
called God, Jehovah, Lord, &c. &c.; but that the facts are yet un-
known to man, which define what that power is.
"2. That all ceremonial worship by man of this cause, whose
qualities are yet so little known, proceeds from ignorance of his
own nature, and can be of no real utility in practice; and that
it is impossible to train men to become rational in their feelings,
thoughts, or actions, until all such forms shall cease."
This, said Mr. Owen, is my individual opinion. He
then proceeded :-
"3. That it is man's highest duty to himself and his fellow-men,
to acquire an accurate knowledge of those circumstances which
produce evil to the human race, and of those which produce good,
to exert all his powers to remove the former from society, and to
create around it the latter only.
"
4. That this invaluable practical knowledge can be acquired
solely through an extensive search after truth, by an accurate,
patient, and unprejudiced enquiry into facts, as developed by
Nature.
"5. That man can never attain to a state of superior and perma-
nent happiness, until he shall be surrounded by those external
circumstances which will retain him, from birth, to feel pure
charity and sincere affection towards the whole of his species; to
speak the truth only on all occasions, and to regard with a mer-
ciful disposition all that has life.
"6. That such superior principles and feelings can never be
given to man under those Institutions of Society. which have
been founded on the mistaken supposition, that man forms his
feelings and convictions by his will, and is therefore responsible
for them.
Cat
"7. That under Institutions, formed in accordance with the ra-
tional System of Society, these superior principles and dispositions
may be given to the whole of the human race, without chance of
failure, except in case of organic disease, and influenced only by
the natural consequences of our actions. "
Mr. OWEN next proceeded to read to the Congress the
four following clauses, from his universal code of laws, on
the Liberty of Man :-
"1 All shall have equal and full liberty to express the dictates
of their conscience.
“2. No one shall have any other power than fair argument, to
control the opinions or belief of another.
"3. No praise or blame, no merit or demerit, no reward or pun.
ishment, shall be awarded for any faith whatever.
4. All shall have equal right to express their opinion respecting
a First Cause; and to worship it under any form or in any manner
1
K 3
102
agreeable to their consciences, not interfering with equal rights in
others."
Upon this, observed Mr. OWEN, I will briefly remark, that
the cause of all the miseries at this moment arises from the
various and conflicting religious forms of worship now in
vogue. Who can ask for more than that all should have
equal right to express their opinion respecting a first cause,
and to worship it under that form which is most agreeable to
their consciences? Who could ask for more than this if he
were an intelligent being? No individual could enjoy the full
extent of happiness so long as he might be compelled to main-
tain sentiments in opposition to facts. To him (Mr. Owen)
it would make no difference whether his friends were Jews,
Mahometans, Infidels, Hindoos, or belonging to any other sect.
He was the last man who would attempt to fetter any man's
opinion; for he thought every man ought to be allowed to
think for himself, especially upon matters of such weighty
importance.
A good deal of desultory conversation ensued, but the reso-
lution was ultimately carried nem. con., and was voted to be
the standing motto upon such publications as the Congress
might issue.
REGULATIONS FOR CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES.
The Rev. Mr. DUNN brought up the report of the com-
mittee appointed to draw up the rules and regulations for
co-operative societies. It was as follows:
The congress of delegates from the co-operative so-
cieties of Great Britain and Ireland, particularly recommend
to all present and future co-operative societies the adoption
of the following fundamental rules and regulations as the
only constitutional basis upon which their societies can be
permanently and successfully established:
1. Let it be universally understood, that the grand ultimate
object of all co-operative societies, whether engaged in trad-
ing, manufacturing, or agricultural pursuits, is community on
land.
2. To effect this important purpose, a weekly subscription,
either in money, goods, or labour, from a penny to any other
amount agreed upon, is indispensably necessary to be
continued from year to year, until a capital sufficient to ac-
complish the object of the society be accumulated.
3. The next preliminary step to be pursued as auxiliary to
the former, will be for the society to purchase at wholesale
price, articles of ordinary consumption, of the most genuine
description, in order to be retailed at the market prices, for
the purpose of further accumulation, The adoption of these
instructions will, of course, be regulated by the circumstances
and inclinations of particular societies.
4. We would observe that the immediate benefit derivable from
103
are,
these societies, in their successful approximation to community,
the mutual employment of members, the establishment of
schools for the education of children, and of libraries and
reading-rooms for adults,
5, In order to ensure without any possibility of failure the
successful consummation of these desirable objects, it is the
unanimous decision of the delegates here assembled, that the
capital accumulated by such associations should be rendered
indivisible, and any trading societies formed for the accumula-
tion of profits, with the view to the merely making a dividend
thereof at some future period, cannot be recognized by this
congress as identified with the corporative world, nor admitted
into that great social family which is now rapidly advancing
to a state of independent and equalized community..
6. It is deemed more especially essential in all the trading
transactions of co-operative societies, that credit shall be nei-
ther taken nor given; as a deviation from this important prin-
ciple, has been the sole cause of the destruction of so many
previous societies, and thus banefully operated to retard the
general progress of co-operation. In order to carry this im.
portant measure into suceessful operation, the congress recom-
mend that in case of want of employment among the members,
means should be taken by the society, if possible, to provide
them some employment, as local eircumstances may admit. In
cases of sickness, should there be no other sources of relief,
pecuniary assistance may be given either from the funds he-
longing to the society, or from individual subscription amongst
the members.
·
7. The congress is of opinion that it is extremely inimical to the
principles of co-operation, and productive of the most injurious
consequences, to permit an individual who is already a member
of one society to become a member of another."
This report was unanimously adopted.
EXPENCES OF DELEGATES.
Mr. WARDEN suggested that the burthen of the expenses
entailed upon societies by the attendance at Congress, should
be equalised among the different societies; and moved for a
committee to calculate the amount of funds possessed by each
society on the list, and to report thereon, in order that the ex-
penses might be equalised-Passed unanimously; after which
he Congress adjourned till the following morning.
THE SOCIAL FESTIVAL.
On the evening of this day, the Congress gave a social festi-
val to their friends, upon which occasion the whole suite of
apartments in the building of the Institution was thrown open,
and filled by a gay and happy assemblage of both sexes.
About eight o'clock Mr. Owen entered the large room, and
was hailed with the cheers of the immense assembly, and with
the soul-stirring air, "See, the conquering hero comes," which
104
·
was admirably performed, on the organ, by Mr. Stephens. As
soon as this burst of enthusiasm, and the air of "Welcome"
had ceased, Mr. Owen exhibited a model of the building,
which he proposes to erect for the new society he is calling
into existence, and explained its principles in a most pleasing
and satisfactory manner.
The following is the substance of his address:-The period
has arrived when the ignorance and error of men have been so
far removed as to permit them, for the first time in their known
history, to listen to truths, founded on facts, evident to all who
can accurately observe and compare them, on a knowledge of
which their permanent improvement and happiness solely de-
pend. All are now compelled to admit that the existing state
of society over the civilized world is deplorable in the extreme;
and yet that the materials requisite to ensure a high degree of
prosperity and happiness to every part of it are scattered about
in all directions in the utmost profusion, and which, if rightly
used, might be applied to remedy the cause of all just complaint
from the inhabitants of every country. It is therefore full time,
seeing that all are conscious of the folly and evil of the existing
system of society, that a system so wretched should be made to
terminate in the shortest possible period. But, it may be pro-
perly asked, Shall we destroy the existing system before we
build up another? Or shall we use the present system lawfully
and beneficially, not only to assist in effecting the change, but
also to save the population of all countries from war and vio-
lence during the whole of its progress? I do not hesitate to
make a reply to this most important question, as it is one of the
most serious moment. It would be most injurious to pull down
an old house occupied by many inhabitants before a new and
a better had been provided in its stead; so it would be equally
unwise in the present generation to destroy the existing system
of society, before they had discovered one superior to it in every
respect, and had shewn all the practical measures by which,
without inconvenience, it may be made to supersede it. I
propose to-night to explain those practical measures by which
this glorious change may be now effected without violence;
nay, I believe, without opposition from any intelligent, well-
disposed individual of any rank in any country; for as soon as
the means can be devised to enable them fully to comprehend
the subject, and thereby learn the incalculable benefits which
the human race must secure to themselves by the change, one
and all would be most eager to have the new system adopted
in practice without any unnecessary delay. I proceed, there-
fore, to explain to the assembly, and more especially to the
members of Congress, the great change now contemplated in
the affairs of the human race. All societies of men. from the
time they first congregated until now, consisted, and they ever
must consist, of the same simple elements and divisions; there
105
is no difference in these divisions between the savage and most
civilized nation. In each there must be arrangements to pro-
duce or procure what the tribe or nation requires to live upon,
use, and enjoy. Also other arrangements to distribute the wealth
so produced or procured. There must be also some arrange-
ments to form the character of the individuals composing the
tribe or nation. It is also a general principle that man is, to a
very great degree, the creature of the circumstances in which
he lives. Now it is evident that, in proportion as these four
great divisions of human society are separately well or ill or-
ganized and wisely or ignorantly united, that the circumstances
of the individuals, whether savage or civilized, will be favour-
able or unfavourable. What does the past history of the world
declare upon this subject? That there never has been any tribe
or nation among whom any one of these departments has been
understood, or in which they have been advantageously united.
In many of the savage tribes, when they were first discovered
by Europeans, these departments were more beneficially car-
ried on and united for the well-being of the tribe than they
are now in Great Britain, the most civilized of nations, for the
happiness of the people. Suffice it to say at present, that these
four departments are now totally unknown in the British em-
pire, both by the government and people, except as random
measures, pursued without any knowledge of the science on
which society is formed, and that the practice of each depart-
ment is a chaos of confusion and folly, alike destructive of the
best feelings and intellects of human nature, as of the prosperity
and happiness of the mass of the people. Without intention
on the part of the government, it is scarcely possible to con-
ceive that a nation, possessing such extraordinary resources for
the creation of wealth and the improvement of the people,
could have applied these invaluable powers to produce such
wretched results; yet it is evident that the government does not
intend to inflict misery on the people, if it knew how to avoid
such misery. The government is to be pitied; it does not know
how to make any better use of the enormous powers at its con-
troul. False incongruous theories have led the government and
legislature through mazes of error that have now confounded
their understandings until their faculties are bewildered. The
inodel now before you is intended to assist in the removal of
these errors, and the innumerable and severe miseries which
they inflict on the whole population. It is a model of a new
machine, to enable men to perform, in a very superior manner,
all the business of human society. It is a model of an entirely
new combination of circumstances for forming the character of,
providing for, and governing men, to ensure permanently their
prosperity and happiness. It is founded on a knowledge of the
science of man-of society, and of the influence of external cir-
106
cumstances over man. It is formed to comprise within it the
due proportion of the departments of production of wealth, of
the distribution of wealth, of the formation of individual and
general character, and of police or government. And it is ca-
pable also of accomplishing all these objects much better than
they have ever yet been accomplished, with less than a hun-
dredth part of the labour and capital now employed to carry on
the present wretched state of human misery, in which there
are anomalies of folly of every description, so much so, that in
no one department of human life is there a particle of real wis-
dom to be found. The department of production, consisting
of agriculture, manufactures, and trades,, will be in proportion
to the wants of the human race. The department of distri-
bution will be to apportion the wealth produced with the least
labour most beneficially for all. The department of forming
individual and national character will, at a trifling expense,
insure the formation of a very superior race of beings, placed
in the midst of the most advantageous circumstances to pro-
mote their daily improvement. And the department for g -
verning will be so extremely simplified, that all, and each one
of the population, will be, at the proper period of their life,
equal to understand the whole system of governing, and be
fully competent to take their due share of it. The domestic
arrangements of this system are equally novel with every part
of it, and are founded on a knowledge of human nature, an
acquaintance with modern inventions, improvements, and dis-
coveries. They are devised to insure the highest improvement
of the children, and the greatest happiness of the adults. And
these are all made to harmonize together in such a manner as
to promote the happiness of every individual without any ex-
ception. It is true that there will be an equality, but the con-
dition of men will be then higher than any yet known or ima-
gined. There would be no end to the explanation and de-
scription of these details. This must be effected in courses
of lectures, which will admit the due amplification of such par-
ticulars. The essential difference between the two systems
is-that the one encourages the growth of evils upon a most
alarming scale, and then attempts fruitlessly to cure a few of
them! While the new is a system to prevent the existence of
the cause of evils, and thus save enormous expense and mi-
sery arising from their existence-
The one produces-
Ignorance
Disease
Poverty
Disunion
Vice and crime
Misery.
The other-
Intelligence
Health
Riches
Union
Morality and virtue
Happiness.
107
At the conclusion of the lecture the company formed them-
selves into groups for dancing, three excellent bands being in
attendance. In the long corridor, "the gay Quadrille" was
performed, while in the saloon the waltz was the prevailing
dance. In another spacious room, the merry country dance"
afforded satisfaction to the votaries of Terpsichore; and during
the evening several songs were sung to musical accompani-
ments. The "feast of reason and the flow of soul" did not
terminate till one o'clock, at which time the company sepa-
rated, highly gratified.
Saturday, April 29th.
ADDRESS TO GOVERNMENTS.
The Delegates assembled again this morning at nine o'clock.
Mr. HIRST in the chair.
Mr. LOVETT remarked, that in proposing the resolution
which he held in his hand, he was far from believing that any
assistance would be rendered by Government to the cause of
co-operation; but the fact of a formal Address being presented,
would produce some impression on the public mind. He
therefore moved-" That the Address of the Congress of Dele-
gates of the Co-operative Societies of Great Britain and Ire-
land, submitted to, and unanimously approved of by a large
public meeting, held at the Institution of the Industrious
Classes, Gray's Inn-road, on Monday, April 25th, be accord-
ingly presented to the British and Foreign Governments; and
that the following gentlemen be requested to present the same
to the official organs of each :-Mr. R. Owen, Rev. Dr. Wade,
Rev. Mr. Dunn, and Mr. W. Pare.'
Mr. PARE seconded the resolution, which was carried una-
nimously.
Mr. LOVETT proposed another resolution. To give publi-
city to the principles of co-operation, no better mode could be
devised than petitioning Parliament. He would suggest, that
all societies should adopt this mode of extending the knowledge
of the co-operative system; and he would undertake that peti-
tions from the country, transmitted to the London Council,
should be duly presented to Parliament. Such petitions, if
possible, should also be inserted in the provincial papers. He
moved" That this Congress urge on the Co-operators of the
United Kingdom, to present their petitions to both Houses of
Parliament, praying them to examine into the co-operative
system, as an effectual relief for the distresses of the industrious
classes; and praying them to examine at the bar of both
Houses, those persons whose practice and knowledge of the
subject will show its efficiency and practicability."—Carried
unanimously.
·
108
1
Mr. OWEN communicated, that an estate suitable for the pur-
poses of a community might be obtained, if thought desirable,
at Ayesbury, in Hertfordshire. It consisted of four hundred
acres of land, and adjoining it were a thousand acres, which he
thought might also be obtained.
Mr. Thompson, Mr. Owen, and Mr. Bromley, were ap-
pointed to inspect the estate, and report to the congress. A
deputation was likewise appointed to wait upon Mr. Morgan,
of the Stock Exchange, and endeavour to effect a loan of
250,000l.
INCIPIENT COMMUNITY.
The following document was then brought up by the Com-
mittee appointed to draw it.
ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT
FOR THE FORMATION OF A
COMMUNITY, ON THE PRINCIPLES OF MUTUAL CO-OPE-
RATION; ADOPTED BY THE CONGRESS OF DELEGATES OF
THE CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES OF GREAT BRITAIN AND
IRELAND, AT THEIR THIRD SITTING IN LONDON, DURing
THE LAST WEEK OF APRIL, 1832.
1.—Reasons and Principles.
WHEREAS HAPPINESS is the true object of human exertions,
and the real and permanent improvement of Society must be
founded on the happiness of its individual members:
Whereas the knowledge and happiness of its members will
necessarily induce and perpetuate the most free and beneficial
public institutions:
Whereas the splendid advances daily taking place in the me-
chanical and chemical Sciences, and the arts of life, however
productive of increased activity and glory, must remain unpro-
ductive of their only rational object, increased happiness to
mankind, until corresponding advances shall have been made
in moral and social science:
Whereas the present arrangements in the most favoured re-
gions of civilized society, far from providing for the whole, do
not provide even for the greater portion of its members, the
comforts and conveniences of life necessary to health and enjoy-
ment:
Whereas, on the contrary, in the present state of society, Mi-
sery, Vice, and Crime, form a frightful and astounding aggre-
gate, when compared with the means, which we believe we
possess, of removing them and providing for the comforts, conve-
niences, and improvement of all:
Whereas these evils appear to us to originate for the most
part in the system of Individual Competition and Private Accu-
mulation, with the endless restraints and penalties, legal and
social, to which they give birth, stimulating men to acquire
wealth by any means, though at the expense of the labour, the
happiness, and even the lives, of their fellow-creatures:

109
Whereas almost all the pernicious passions, vices and crimes,.
of society proceed from the excessive inequality of wealth (the
inevitable effect of such Individual Competition) which entails
want, ignorance, envy, anxieties, frauds, thefts, and all the other
evils of poverty, on nine-tenths of mankind-and avarice, op-
pression, idleness, ennui, selfish sensuality, with all the evils of
inactive repletion on the other tenth-leaving to almost none a
relish for intellectual and social pleasures, founded on the tran-
quil and secure enjoyment of real comforts, appreciated at their
real value, their power to produce happiness, compared with the
trouble of producing them:
Whereas it is well ascertained that a competent number of
industrious individuals can supply in abundance all the neces-
saries and comforts of life to each other: and
Whereas it appears to us that in lieu of the existing system
of Individual Competition, a system of Mutual Co-operation in
the production of wealth, and of equality in its distribution,
would remove the greater portion of the evils under which So-
ciety at present labours:
We, the undersigned, for these reasons engage with each
other to form, as near London as practicable, an Association of
Mutual Co-operation, Community of property, and Equal
Means of Enjoyment.
II.-Government.
The object of the association being to promote, impartially,
the greatest happiness of all its individual members, it will
be essentially self-governed; all its internal regulations will
be formed, and its proceedings conducted by the adult mem-
bers themselves, or by committees, or individuals of their ap-
pointment, periodically reporting, and periodically renewed.
The period of adult age will be determined by the community.
We engage to abide in all cases by the votes of the majority;
but the majority engage never to require the concurrence of the
minority in any measures but those in which the interests of the
majority are incompatible with the gratification of the wishes of
the minority. The majority must always consist of more than
half of the adult members, men and women, of the whole associ-
ation, or of its committees. But the Community will delegate no
power of judging or acting to any individual or Committee which it
can itself exercise without preponderant evil of delay, vexation, or
expense. All its deliberative proceedings will be transacted at
regular weekly, or other public meetings of all the adult members.
The use of these meetings, will be to excite and preserve an
universal interest in the public (the aggregate of the individual)
affairs of the Community; to keep alive the sympathy of all with
all; to inform, exercise, and improve, the intellectual faculties
of all on the most interesting subjects, and to afford an efficient.
preventive to all abuses and misgovernment; as well as to lead
to the discovery of new truths useful to all, and to diffuse such
truths, particularly on subjects of social arrangement, through
society at large.-Every facility, consistent with the interests of
the Co-operators, shall also be afforded to the public at large, to
L
110
investigate our arrangements, and to attend our public discus-
sions.
The developement of Truth being progressive, and views of
utility depending on increased knowledge, any of these articles,
formed with a view of creating and giving life to a community,
may at any time hereafter, when such community shall have been
formed and in full action, be amended or changed by such majo-
rity of the Community, as above described; those articles only
excepted, which imply a contract still unfulfilled by either of the
contracting parties.
III.-Preservation of Harmony.
We hereby agree that such misunderstandings as may arise
between the members of the Community, shall be settled within
the Community by such mode of amicable arrangement as may
be hereafter appointed.
IV.-Right of Private Judgment.
We guarantee to each other, individual freedom of opinion
on all subjects of human knowledge or speculation, moral or
physical, particularly on subjects of religion; and we will re-
spect the individual inclinations of each other in all cases not
incompatible with the general welfare, and will never exhibit
anger on account of any difference of opinion.
V.-Use of Public Halls.
Any number of adult members exceeding thirty, shall be en-
titled to the exclusive use of the public rooms three hours
a week, for religious or any other social purposes, on giving
intimation of such wish in the proper quarter to be hereafter
specified.
VI.-Power of Withdrawing and Dismissing.
We guarantee to each other liberty to leave the Community
when we please; and we yield to the Community the self-pro
tecting power of renouncing, at its pleasure, the co-operation o
any individual. The property of the Community shall be indi
visible; but the retiring members shall have the opportunity of
disposing of their shares to any equal number of persons ap
proved of by the Community, if the Community do not wish
itself to purchase.
VII.-General Intercourse with Society.
We will afford, under regulations to be hereafter determined,
pecuniary and other facilities for communication with externaĺ
society, and for travelling; and we will allow such time to
each other for these purposes as shall be compatible with the
interest of the Community, and the pleasure of the individuals:
provision shall also be made for the accommodation of the
visiting friends of the members.
VIII. Rights of Women.
To women, forming half the human race, equally capable
with men of contributing to the common happiness, and equally
capable of individual enjoyment, we guarantee elegibility
equally with men to every situation within the Community, to
which their individual talents, capabilities, character, and in-
clinations may adapt them. We also guarantee to them equal
111
means of acquiring knowledge and social pleasures, and of in-
dividual freedom of opinion and action, as well as an equality
of property, and of the physical means of enjoyment, with men.
IX.-Co-operation of Women.
To secure to the Community the efficient co-operation of one
half of its adult members, women; to afford them an opportu-
nity of acquiring equal respect and sympathy, by means of
equal usefulness, with men; and to give them equal facilities
with men, of social intercourse and of acquiring knowledge;
we guarantee to them freedom from the domestic drudgery of
cooking, washing, and of heating apartments, which will be per-
formed on scientific principles on a large economical scale, for
the whole community.
X.-Children.
We also, with the same views, guarantee to parents the use
of healthful and agreeable dormitories, classified, for their in-
fants and children of all ages, with arrangements for the best
developement of their mental and physical powers; experience
having proved that the union and intercourse of large numbers
of children of nearly the same age, are essenial to this end.
These advantages, however, will be optional to the parents, the
children being at all times accessible to their visits and subject
to their superintendance. To voluntary agents, part of the Com-
munity in rotation, aided by the kindly offices of the parents,
the care of the children of all ages will be entrusted.
XI.-Orphans.
We guarantee to each other that the children of any person
dying a member of the Community shall be equally protected,
educated, and cherished, with the children of the living mem-
bers, and entitled, when they become adult, to all the advantages
and equal joint proprietorship thereof. In this Community, no
children can be reduced to the destitution of orphans in the pre-
sent state of society.
XII.-Education.
To all the children entering the Community, or born within
it, we guarantee the best physical, intellectual, and moral edu-
cation that the present state of human knowledge affords; an
advantage for which our peculiar arrangements afford facili-
ties not to be obtained by any exertion of toil, or sacrifice of
wealth, in the present state of society. To maintain uninter-
rupted health during the longest possible life, and to render
that life the most happy, diversified by all the innocent plea-
sures of sense, of active exertion, of knowledge, of sympathy
and mutual beneficence, with every variety and combination of
these enjoyments, will be the great objects of the general educa-
tion of the whole Community. The mode of education, com-
bining always practice with theory, the Community will here-
after determine. To individual parents, and those teachers in
whom they confide, the teaching of their peculiar religious
tenets is assured: with religious instruction the general teachers
are forbidden to interfere.

XIII.-General Employment.
Of whatever arts or talents we may be individually possessed,
ཨ+༠,
L2
112
!
whether mental or muscular, agricultural or manufacturing, we
engage to devote them to the common benefit, as well by their
immediate exercise, as by communicating our skill or knowledge
to each other, in whatever way the Community may hereafter
deem most conducive to the happiness of the whole, whether by
mental, or healthful and agreeable manual operations, of use
or ornament, or by alternations of these: the time of co-opera-
tive employment shall, like other arrangements, be determined
by the Community itself.
XIV. Variety of Employment.
We also engage to learn, by mutual instruction, some branches
of agricultural, orchard, or gardening industry; and every agri-
culturist engages to learn some branch of manufacturing in,
dustry.
K
XV.-Domestic Services.
All useful services, called menial, and all others to which
unpleasant associations are attached, will be performed (in
want of volunteers by rotation, or otherwise, from amongst the
adult members,) by the youth of the community, or such portion
of them, by rotation or choice, between ten and seventeen years
of age, as may be necessary for the due performance thereof,
Such services being públic and general, will not be liable to
individual authority or controul; they will be freely given, and
courteously received; they will not be rendered repulsive to
the minds of youth by any false associations, but will serve
them as the means of commanding the sympathy of the adult
members, for whose comfort those services will be performed;
they will increase the self-respect of the youth, from the con-
sciousness of their useful co-operation for the common benefit,
will serve them to repay the adult members for the support and
education previously conferred upon them, and will introduce
them to the pleasures of independent exertion and co-operative
industry amongst those whose companions and equals they look
forward to become. To themselves, also, when adults, will simi-
lar services be rendered by the rising and ever-varying youth of
the community.
XVI.-All Occupations Voluntary.
When the community shall come into full operation, no mem-
ber will be required to follow any employment injurious to his
or her health, or unpleasant to his or her feelings, for never so
short a time; the occupations of the community being sufficiently
numerous to give free choice of employment to all. All unhealthy
or repulsive occupations that cannot by machinery, chemical, or
other scientific means be performed, or so modified as to be
rendered no longer unpleasant, or that cannot be reconciled to
health and comfort by succession of operations for a limited
time, or by the voluntary efforts of particular individuals, shall
be altogether banished from the community.
XVII-Attractions to Industry.
Every possible means shall be employed to render attractive
to the Members, every species of co-operative exertion, muscu-
lar or mental;-as by the beauty and ornaments of the grounds
and working halls, by the society of intelligent and benevolent
113
co-operators pursuing a common interest, and by all such other
means as the experience and increasing knowledge of the com-
munity may suggest.
XVIII.-Amusements.
To increase to the utmost the happiness of those unemployed
hours of every day, which are not devoted to co-operative exer-
tion, every possible facility will be afforded to the enjoyment of
all social and individual pleasures of the senses, intellect, or
sympathy, not followed in their consequences with preponderant
evil; as by the establishment within the commuuity, for the use
of all its members, of an extensive library, museum, and theatre
for the fine arts, by supplying ourselves with the best chemical,
and other philosophical apparatus, and by encouraging weekly,
or other periodical debates, lectures, and conversations on all
subjects calculated to afford pleasure to the co-operators.
XIX.-Fine Arts.
Any member wishing to devote the whole, or any portion of
the hours of daily mutual co-operation to painting, engraving,
sculpture, music, or any other branch of the fine arts, for the
use, embellishment, or amusement of the community; or, for the
general advancement of the study of nature, mineral, vegetable,
or animal; or of chemistry, mechanics, or any other species of
intellectual pursuit, may apply for the approbation of the com-
munity or committee (as may be hereafter appointed,) so to devote
the whole or any portion of his or her time, with full assurance
of cordial encouragement in every useful pursuit where practi-
cable.
XX.-Land.
For every individual, young or old, to be associated in this
community, (the ultimate number of which we propose to be
2,000 we will purchase one acre of good land, fee-simple, and,
if possible, tithe-free, and land-tax redeemed; the most indis-
pensable object of our Association being to provide, by our
mutual exertions, all the materials of food, clothing, and dwell-
ings, necessary to perfect health and length of life. This land
we will lay out and cultivate with the threefold view to health,
abundant produce, and embellishment.
XXI.—Buildings.
We will erect, by the labour of the Associates, on the most
convenient scites of our land, suitable dwellings, agricultural
and manufacturing offices, public halls for meals, science, amuse-
ments, care of the sick, and all other objects deemed useful;
and we will make, by associate mechanics and engineers, or will
purchase, the best machinery, to abridge or facilitate labour, and
to render it in every department compatible with health.
XXII.—Private Apartments.
To secure individual freedom of opinion and action, (one of
the most essential constituents of human happiness,) every adult,
man or woman, married or single, will ultimately be provided
with two private rooms each, a sitting room and a bed room, of
which each occupant will have the entire controul, for retire-
ment, study, or amusement, as well as equal use of all the public
LJ
&
114
halls, grounds, and accommodations of every sort, possessed by
the Community.
XXIII.-Manufactures.
We will practice all arts and manufactures necessary for
health, and particularly those the materials of which are capable
of being advantageously produced on the lands of the Com-
munity.
XXIV.-Exchangeable Commodities.
We will also practise, according to the situation and conve-
niences of our land, some particular branch or branches of in-
dustry, manufacturing or agricultural, suitable to the demands
of general society, and to the acquired habits of industry of the
members, for the supply, by means of exchange, of such other
articles of comfort or of elegance, the use of which may afford
sufficient pleasure to repay the trouble of production, and which
cannot economically be produced at home, as well as to dis-
charge the contributions falling upon us as members of general
society.
XXV.-Principles of Exchange.
We renounce all the advantages, or, as we esteem them, all
the evils of trafficking merely for pecuniary gain, we renounce
profit, which implies living on the labour of others; all our
exchanges being proposed to be for fair equivalents, represent-
ing equal labour, and destined for immediate or gradual con-
sumption, and not for accumulation, to command the labour of
other communities, or of individuals of general society. Mus-
cular and mental activity, or both, are essential to health: the
miseries and vices of idleness we are therefore determined to
avoid. We shall not, therefore, become a trading and accumu-
lating, but will be, and remain, a producing and enjoying Com-
munity; living always on our own united exertions, aided ny
exchanges for the increase of our enjoyments. All our fellow-
creatures require, and are equally with ourselves entitled to,
the use of the whole of the products of their exertions, for their
own happiness. Whatever accumulations we may make, will
be with a view of providing against want from unfavourable
seasons or other casualties, or of affording ourselves continually
increasing comforts, or of aiding our children or others of gene-
ral society, in the formation of new communities. As we have
associated together to avoid, in the first instance, the evils of
individual competition, so do we foresee and renounce the evils
of collective competition, either with other communities or with
individuals, excepting so far as will be unavoidable by the sale
of our surplus produce; and even this competition we will
gradually abandon, so soon as other communities shall be esta-
blished who may be willing to make direct exchanges with us
upon the equitable principle of equal quantities of labour.
XXVI. Distribution of Produce.
B
1
C
Food, clothing, and furniture, will be furnished to all the
members from the general stores and kitchens, by regulations
to be hereafter agreed upon. Meals may be taken at the public
halls or in private apartments, at the option of the individual
members.
age
A
115
XXVII.-Health.
Though under rational arrangements, where interest and duty
are made to walk hand in hand, the now neglected art of pre-
serving health, will to a great extent supersede the trade of
curing diseases, the abundance of which becomes the interest
of those who live by attending upon them; yet casualties will
occur. Therefore, against the avoidable evils incidental to sick-
ness, child-bearing, old age, and all other physical casualties to
which individuals may be still exposed, we mutually guarantee
each other. In rooms arranged by all the aids of science,
guided by benevolence, or at the option of the patients in their
private rooms, those members of the community whose peculiar
voluntary study and occupation it will be to preserve the
health of the members unimpaired, and mitigate the evils of
unavoidable disease, will devote their skill and anxiety to the
speedy convalescence of the afflicted. To alleviate the evils of
disease, (the object next in importance to the preservation of
uninterrupted health,) the community will spare no effort or
expense, every member, more particularly the guardians of the
public health, being directly interested in the health and well-
being of every other member; as the common produce of the
means of happiness must be necessarily lessened by the ab-
straction of the productive powers of any individual. With
the afflicted and aged, the whole community will sympathise, as
well from remembrance of past as from anticipation of future
reciprocal services, and from the calm and sweet security of
similar solace to themselves under similar calamities.
The
whole Community will be the guardians and nurses of the
afflicted; particular superintendance being either voluntary or
by rotation. As we are insurers to each other for the attain-
ment of the greatest quantity of every species of happiness, so
are we also insurers to each other against the approach, or for
the mitigation, of every evil.
XXVIII. Means of obtaining the foregoing Objects.
C
7
To accomplish these objects we propose to receive as candi-
dates, all those who may be elected by Co-operative Societies,
or who may wish to join on their own account, on condition of
depositing 31. each person, in the banking-house of Messrs.
Prescot Grote, and Co., Threadneedle-street, London, to the ac
count of the following gentlemen, who are hereby appointed
Trustees, Messrs. Samuel Austin, John Dempsey, and Francis
Trench, Esqrs., and by making up the sum of 301. by such future
instalments, as may be called for by the said Trustees. No part
of the deposits shall be used by the Trustees, or by any other
person but the Community itself for any purpose whatever, ex-
cept the payment of any necessary expense, which may be in-
curred by the Committee appointed to take land.
XXIX.-Children.
Children of parents desirous of becoming members of the Com-
munity, shall be received on the following terms:-If under the
age of four years, on the payment of 31. 15s. each; between the
ages of four and eight, the sum of 71. 10s.; and between the ages
of eight and fourteen, the sum of 151.
116
XXX.-Other means furnished by Benevolent individuals.
Any benevolent individual disposed to assist in furthering this
object, shall be at liberty (either on his own account or that of
others) to subscribe on each share the sum of 301. (his or their
election however, to be subject to the ballot,) and if not ac-
quainted with, and practising, such manual or mental occupa-
tions, as to be considered by the majority a useful or productive
member; shall nevertheless have the use of private apartments,
public buildings, furniture and every other benefit of the Com
inunity, equally with any other member; on consideration of his
paying for such articles of food and clothing he may consume, at
a price fixed by the Community. He shall have one vote only
as any other member, and shall not be allowed to introduce ser-
vants, horses, dogs, or any thing else deemed by the Community
to be inconsistent with the spirit of these regulations.
XXXI.-Funds.
As the community may require the services of some indivi-
duals who may desire to join, but have not the necessary funds,
the community may borrow such sums of money as they may
think fit, in order to admit such useful persons; the funds so
borrowed to be repaid by the whole community. Also, if any of
the candidates have machinery, stock, or implements of any
kind which the members, or a committee appointed by them,
may deem useful, such stock may be transferred to the commu-
nity (at a valuation to be made by them,) in part payment of
their shares.
XXXII.-Admission.
Every person must be ballotted for before entering the commu-
nity; and in order to secure harmony and cordial co-operation,
no person can be received who does not express his or her wish
to join; no married person can, therefore, be received as a can-
didate, except his or her partner in life, together with the chil-
dren (if any) dependent upon them, and above the age of twelve
years, express their wish also to join the community, and are
prepared with the necessary funds according to the scale laid
down. Their individual fitness shall be inquired into, but they
shall be ballotted for as a whole family, and received or re-
jected together.
XXXIII.-Neucleus of the Community.
All persons elected and supplied with funds by Co-operative
Societies shall form the neucleus of the community, and shall
ballot for the other candidates; they shall, however, be subject
to the same kind of election by the whole. After two months'
probation in the community, the ballot shall be again gone
through in the same order as above, and the persons then elected
shall be admitted members. Women and children will join as
soon as suitable accommodations are provided, and the respec-
tive artisans, mechanics, &c. as soon as the means of productive
employment are prepared for them; agriculturists, labourers,
and those employed in building, being the first to occupy.
XXXIV.-Land to be taken.
As soon as one hundred persons have paid their deposits, the
following gentlemen,-viz. A. J. Hamilton, Esq. of Dalziel,
117
N. B.; Wm. Thompson, Esq. of Cork; Wm. Bromley, Esq. and
Wm. Haskins, Esq. of London,-are appointed a Committee,
and authorised to take at least 400 acres of good land, as near
London as practicable, either on a term of lives renewable for
ever, or on a purchasing clause, and adjoining other land
which may be had on the same terms. They are also authorised
in conjunction with the London Council, to call the subscribers
together, at such time and place as they may deem proper, when
the Community will take into their own hands the regulation o
all their future proceedings.
1
XXXV.-Deposits to be returned, if the Land is not taken in
twelve months.
If the Land be not taken by the 1st of May, 1833, the Trustees
shall return the money to any of the depositors who may apply
for the same.
Persons wishing to join, or wanting farther information, are
requested to address (post-paid) to Mr. SAMUEL AUSTIN, Insti-
tution of the Industrious Classes, Gray's Inn Road, London.-
When Deposits are made, Mr. AUSTIN must be apprised of the
same by letter.*
The Report was very fully discussed, and ultimately
adopted.
I
THE NEXT CONGRESS.
It having been announced by one of the Secretaries, that
the next thing claiming the attention of the Congress was the
time and place for holding the next meeting, a long discussion.
ensued, which terminated in a resolution, that the next Cón-
gress be held on the first Monday in October, at Liverpool;
and Messrs. Carson, Heaton, and Finch were instructed to
make the necessary arrangements.
MISSIONARIES.
It was then proposed by Mr. STYLES, and seconded by Mr.
PARE" That the following persons being approved by this
Congress, are hereby recommended to the London Council for
appointment as Missionaries, so soon as they may possess the
means for enabling them to become useful; viz. :-Mess. Hirst,
of Huddersfield; Warden, of London; Carson, of Liverpool;
Cauldwell and Lowe, of Manchester; Wigg and Simpson, of
London; and the Rev. Mr. Dunn, of Wakefield Cumberworth,
Yorkshire."-Carried unanimously.
The Congress then adjourned till Monday morning.
NORTH WEST OF ENGLAND CO-OPERATIVE COMPANY.
After some discussion, the following resolutions were agreed
to:-"That the Agent be required to give security to the
amount of 5007."-"That all societies remitting monies for
* Upwards of Thirty Shares were taken up when this went
to press.
.
}
118
the establishment at Liverpool, for the payment of orders, do
send the same to the Liverpool Banking Company's Bank,
Brunswick-street, Liverpool; and that they do not send such
monies to the agent direct." "That Messrs. Carson, Hirst,
Gaskell, Skevington, and Duckworth be appointed acting
trustees of the North-western Trading Company. "That the
management of the business of the Liverpool establishment
be left to the acting committee of the trustees, excepting in
those cases in which it may be proposed that additional ex-
penses shall be incurred.”
""
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF CO-OPERATION.
The Congress assembled at half-past nine o'clock; and Mr.
THOMPSON being called to the Chair, the following draught of
the principles of co operation were submitted for adoption by
the Congress :--
The congress of delegates of the co-operative societies of
Great Britain and Ireland, assembled in London, and holding
their meetings in the Institution of the industrious classes, for re-
moving ignorance and poverty, have, after mature deliberation,
resolved to commence a new state of society, founded on the fol-
lowing great principles :
1st. That the character is formed for each individual.
2d. That it is the interest of society that the physical, intel-
lectual, and moral character of every child should be well
formed.
3d. That it is in the power of society to well or ill-form the
character of every child not possessing organic disease.
4th. That the individual co-operative system is calculated to
produce in the mass of the people, poverty, crime, and wretch-
edness, and to perpetuate ignorance and disunion among the
human race, and that the experience of the world, up to the
present day, demonstrates this truth.
5th. That the social co-operative system is eminently calculated
to remove the cause of all these evils, by uniting mankind in
properly devised arrangements, to re-form the human cha-
racter from evil to good; by producing abundance; by mak-
ing well-directed industry honorable; and, by uniting the
exertions of all for the benefit of each.
Several members objected to the first proposition, “that
man's character was formed for him, and not by himself."
Mr. OWEN expressed himself willing to remove any essen-
tial objection which might be made to the proposition, which
he proceeded at some length to explain, on the ground of the
absolute power of circumstances to act on the organisation,
and thence forin the character.
Mr. SKEVINGTON said, he objected to the clause, under con●
sideration; that he was not sent to Congress to discuss meta-
physical questions; and that his Society would not sanction or
receive any document which aimed at the subversion of Chris-
tian principles.
119
Mr. LOVETT agreed with Mr. Skevington, that the Delegates
were not sent to Congress to canvass metaphysics; but he
thought that much advantage would arise if a document to
which all might subscribe could be adopted.
Mr. HIRST thought the less co-operation was associated with
peculiar abstract doctrines, the better. To a certain degree, all
allowed that circumstances influenced the formation of cha-
racter; but he, for one, denied that they had an absolute
power. He felt assured that many were driven away from co-
operation by supposing it to be a system of infidelity.
Mr. OWEN said, that it was essential that a fundamental
doctrine should be asserted and received, or else no practical
results could be ensured.
Dr. WADE, if he might be allowed, would propose an
amendment, which he thought would reconcile all parties to
the document under consideration. He suggested, that "under
Divine Providence" should be inserted after the word “cha-
racter;" which would make the passage read, “ Man's charac-
ter, under Divine Providence, is formed for," &c.
The amendment was then put pro forma, and carried; and
the declaration adopted.
DELEGATES' EXPENSES.
Mr. PARE then moved the following resolution :-" That
the sum of three shillings per day, from the opening of Con-
gress to the close, be paid to each delegate attending, and that
twopence per mile be paid to each delegate for defraying his
travelling expenses; and that the whole of the above expenses
be equally apportioned amongst the whole of the societies, re-
gulated by their numbers and funds."
Mr. STYLES seconded the motion, which was carried, as
was also the following:-"That the district committee, where
the Congress may hereafter meet, be einpowered to invite not
more than one delegate (provided with proper credentials,)
from each co-operative society-as well as such other co-
operative friends they may think proper; such visitors, however,
to have a voice but no vote in the meetings of the Congress."
Mr. BROMLEY next read the report of the committee ap-
pointed to inquire for land, with a view to community; which
annuounced that, the land inspected was not suitable for the
proposed object.
Mr. LOVETT suggested that there were some important sta-
tistical tables in CARPENTER'S POLITICAL MAGAZINE for
May, which would form an invaluable addition to their
printed report; but there appeared to be some difficulties in
the way of this, and the subject was dropped.
Mr. OWEN said the result of his mission to the monied men
on the stock exchange was very unfavourable. Among other
120
persons visited by the deputation was Mr. Rothschild, who
advised the co-operators to get a charter from government, and
that was all he could get from him. Now, if governinent re-
fused the charter, what would the co-operators do? ACT FOR
THEMSELVES, to be sure. (Cheers.)
Mr. HIRST said, Mr. Owen's statement had made him, as he
was sure it would others, more determined than ever to enter a
community.
Mr. PARE agreed with Mr. Hirst, and was rather pleased that
the committee had met with a refusal from the capitalists to
assist them; for the plain English of their words was, that they
would not give a shilling to the cause.
INSTRUCTIONS TO MISSIONARIES, &c.
Mr. Owen submitted to the Congress the propriety of
laying down some general principles, to which those persons
whom they had appointed as missionaries should subscribe.
Mr. THOMPSON concurred in opinion with Mr. Owen. He
thought no person should preach the doctrines of co-operation
until they had been examined.
Mr. LOVETT thought that at that late hour it would be in
expedient to go into any lengthenened discussion. They
had already agreed to fundamental principles, and to rules and
regulations, sufficient to refer their missionaries to. He there-
fore proposed the following resolution :-
}
"This Congress, impressed with the importance of a
unity of opinion and sentiment being promulgated by those
persons they have selected as missionories, refer them for
their instruction to the fundamental principle of the co-ope-
rative system-the rules of the community, together with the
basis of the co-operative trading associations, as agreed to
by this Congress, and embodied in their Report; and they are
hereby requested not to preach in opposition to these prin
ciples."
Mr. HIRST seconded the motion, and said, "the declaration
of principles was sufficient for all practical purposes
Mr. FINCH deprecated the introduction of any principle
which seemed to imply that they were to be governed by one
person. The motion was then put and carried,
Mr. LovETT, moved that the delegates of this Congress,
individually and collectively, consider themselves responsi-
ble for the printing, &c. of the Report, and that they request
the London Council to make arrangements for the printing
and distribution of the same."
A
Mr. SMITH Seconded the resolution, which was carried.
Mr. LOVETT proposed, and Mr. CARSON seconded, the fol-
lowing:
"That the thanks of this Congress are eminently due, and
are hereby given, to Robert Owen, the Governor, as well as
į
121
to Mr. Bromley, and the council of the institution of the
industrious classes, for their assistance and support in further-
ing the cause of this congress; and for the facilities they have
afforded by the use of their extensive and splendid premises
APPENDIX.
EXTRACTS
FROM LETTERS ADDRESSED TO CONGRESS.
FROM THE ROCHDALE SOCIETY.
Our society wish to urge the utility of bringing the following
subjects before the Congress.-First, The establishment of a
co-operative woollen manufactory. As the Huddersfield cloth,
Halifax and Bradford stuffs, Leicester and Loughborough stock-
ings, Rochade flannels, &c. &c. require, in several respects
similar machinery and processes of manufactures, might not
these societies be brought to work together on co operative
principles, and procure mutual advantages not attainable by
seperate establishments.-Secondly, The establishment of a
practicable and permanent missionary system.
GLASGOW.
Much is doing here to remove ignorance and poverty, by the
formation of Trades Unions, and we trust they will soon be
induced to act upon our system; in fact, the leaders are imbued
with the new views of society, and are doing all they can to
convince others. As our great step towards a more extensive
union here, the operatives have procured a printing press, &c.
of their own, the first fruits of which has been the publication
of "The Trades Advocate" Newspaper. Co-operative arti-
cles appear in many of its numbers, and we trust the co-opera-
tors will encourage it. We are fully convinced of the utility
of labour exchanges, and recommend to the consideration of
congress the propriety of adopting a labour note to circulate
emong the societies, as one great step to the emancipation of
the working classes from the iron grasp of capital and compe-
tition. We think a,national note should be issued by congress,
who might charge them to the various societies as bankers now
charge their branches, and require half yearly or annual
returns.
}
Magi
122
HUDDERSFIELD,
•
The Huddersfield co-operative society are desirous of laying
before the congress the following subjects for considerations
viz. would it not be desirable that some one manufacture upon
a large scale should be as soon as possible got into operation,
that each society might have the produce thereof at prime cost,
and in order that this may be carried into immediate execu-
tion, it would only require a certain sum of money from each
society, according to their numbers. Respecting the Liverpool
wholesale establishment, this society has not realized much
benefit from it as yet, notwithstanding which, if proper en-
couragement be given to it. We feel satisfied it must eventu-
ally prove of immense utility to the co-operative world. We
would therefore recommend that each society should give it
their utmost support, and that all money sent to the aforesaid
establishment, to go through the hands of the bank, as agreed
upon by congress at Manchester. This, however, has not
been strictly acted upon, and without it is, we conceive we can
have no security. We also recommend, that no person be ap-
pointed to any office or situation by congress, without the
sanction and recommendation of the society to which he
belongs.
•
FROM THE OWENIAN SOCIETY, MANCHESTER.
We have discussed the principles of labour exchanges,
and made out the general principles very much to our satis-
faction. In fact, as far as circumstances would permit us, we
have always acted upon the principle of exchange of our
labour for the labour of other co-operative societies. But
the moment that we associated in our discussion the banking
system, in exchanges of labour, for labour among societies
generally all over the kingdom, we got lost in the details, and
finally the discussion was adjourned until we could gain far-
ther information. Would you impart the required knowledge
the first opportunity? We would urge on all societies to
have their libraries and reading rooms, to acquire as much
knowledge, to communicate as much thought, to dissemi-
nate as much truth, to make known as many facts as
possible.
We would direct the attention of congress to a system of
organization. The time has arrived when a regulating
movement has become necessary. Let ns no longer suffer
for want of some organization. When this is effected the
results must be much more rapid, and much more striking.
FROM THE THIRD LEICESTER SOCIETY,
It is with feelings of pleasure we embrace this opportunity
of addressing the congress. It is through the medium of the
123
collective wisdom of these assemblies, and a united exertion
on the part of the societies, that we expect the downfall of
oppression, and a termination of those sufferings to which so
many of our industrious countrymen are subject. We are
more than ever convinced that the co-operative cause stands
first on the list of remedies proposed for bettering the cou
dition of mankind. Since the last congress we have had
diving proofs several of our members are making stockings
for their brother co-operators, and in return we receive cloth
from Huddersfield, linen, &c. from Barnsley, flannel from
Rochdale, beverteens and ginghams from Manchester, &c. It
is to our brethren in the north that we stand indebted for
trade; had it not been for their co-operative zeal, several of
our numbers would have been compelled to accept a scanty
pittance from the hands of a parish officer, whose frowns and
cruel indignity are calculated to drive an industrious man to
desperation. As poor men we have no other means of better-
ing our condition than by industry and frugality, consequently
it is to all the societies we look for support. As brethren we
are bound in one common bond, and we must not suffer that
bond to be broken, but, by our united exertions, strengthen
it every possible way. We are confident that much can be
accomplished by an exchange of each others labour-nay,
much good has been effected, but there is still room for im-
provement; if all societies were determined, like our brethren
in Yorkshire and Lancashire, to support co-operative industry,
not one poor stocking weaver would want work.
•
The nature of our trade is such that all societies have an
opportunity of supporting us. There must be a demand for
and consumption of stockings, and why not that demand
upon those societies that are making the articles. As a co-
operative world we must be alive to our interest, and shake
off that apathy which has pervaded us.
That degree of confidence which is so essential for onr
well-being, must be maintained in our dealings with each
other, and, as a society, we are determined to support our
brethren as far as practicable, until the redemption of our-
selves and fellow-creatures is accomplished.
We would recommend that the next congress be held in a
more central place, as London is a great distance from the
principal part of the societies; also that the general and prac-
tical business be transacted the two first days, so that the
delegates may not be exposed to enormous expense. We are
sorry to inform you that the present state of our funds will
not allow us to send a delegate, every shilling we can spare is
devoted to manufacture, as many of our members are short
of work, this, we hope, will be a sufficient excuse-had it
been in our power, we should have gloried in taking part
with you at this important crisis.
124
4
7
We much hope your deliberations will tend to strengthen
those social bonds by which we are united, so that an imme-
diate blessing may be the result of your deliberations.
BARNSLEY.
The west-end co-operative society is perhaps the last one
established (March 21, 1832), yet before another meeting of
congress, we hope to be able to come up with some of our
elder brethren. We have had several meetings since our com-
mencement, and there appears to exist but one feeling among
us, which is good will towards each other; every thing
approaching to a wrangling spirit appears to be crushed,
and there is a mutual giving way to each other in opinion.
We have in our society linen manufacturers, bleachers,
weavers, shoemakers, taylors, joiners, masons, dyers, mecha-
nics, &c., and we can boast that we have not a drunkard, a
profane, or even a disorderly man amongst us, and herein
lies our chief strength.
FROM MR. JOHN GRAY, EDINBURGH.
14, Brandon-street, Edinburgh,
11th April, 1832.
SIR,
I was yesterday favoured with your letter of the 6th inst.,
and regret that it will not be in my power to have the plea-
sure of witnessing your proceedings in London on the 23rd
inst.
I observe, with feelings of the highest gratification, that
there is a spirit of enquiry abroad which cannot fail eventually
to bring about a vast change for the better, in the order of
society; and it is no small evidence of the advance of ratio-
nality that larger concourses of people-yourselves to wit-
are now accustomed to assemble for the purposes of discuss-
ing measures rather than men, and their own affairs instead of
those of the government.
My opinions upon commercial subjects are sufficiently
well known to some of the members of your committee; and
are, besides, so registered for or against me, that it is need-
less to revert to them here; but I cast shades of difference
out of the question, and offer you my most cordial approbation
of your general object, and of the means you are using to
attain it.
In natural affairs, and your's is natural, individuals who
have to fight their own way through life can do but little; but
the universe is composed of particles, and, encouraged by
the reflection, I have no doubt of being able, from time to
time at least not to diminish the aggregate stock of means,
f
125
mental and material, which-at present accumulating-will
sooner or later be applied to the purposes of social improve-
ment.
One object mentioned in your circular I highly approve. I
mean that which relates to the formation of numerous societies,
having for their object, at least as a preliminary, the commu-
nicating with each other upon subjects of importance relating
to practical measures for the improvement of the condition of
man. The more numerous are such societies the more easily
may useful ideas be circulated amongst mankind, and simul-
taneous action will one day be the result of them.
For myself, I am unconnected with any society, being a sort
of stray sheep belonging to no flock, but friendly disposed to-
wards all. However, I have given a reason for the faith that
is in me, which is but fair; and, life and health being spared,
I may perhaps, ere long, step farther in the same path.
Assuring you that I shall be most happy to hear a favour-
able report of your meeting, and of your proceedings at all
times, I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
JOHN GRAY.*
FROM LORD BOSTON.
April 20, 1832.
SIR,
1 deem it right to notice your Letter of April the 10th, and
received by the post this morning, to prevent my appearing
to be indifferent in a matter of so much importance as the
subject of it embraces, and I take the opportunity of explain-
ing the grounds upon which I must decline being present at
the proposed meeting.
I may be in error with respect to the opinion which 1 en-
tertain (a doubt npon the propriety of Peers of Parliament
attending at any public place) to hear arguments upon sub-
jects which may eventually be placed before them in their
official characters.
Upon this principle, I have hitherto refrained from joining
any county or other assemblages whatever.
When any resolutions, emanating from these intended deli-
berations present themselves for the due cònsideration of the
legislature, there is not any individual Member of either of
the Houses of Parliament, or in the whole country, will feel
more desirous in aiding any arrangement consequent upon
them, which may not merely afford a prospect of effecting,
but will actually establish a system of permanent benefit to
the working classes of the community.
* Author of a valuable work recently published "On the Sys-
tèm or Principle of Exchange."
ļ
M 2
126
That the measures which may be brought forward at the
Meetings of the 23d, and the four following days, will be can-
vassed in a constitutional and peaceable manner, your Cir-
cular, now before me, affords a sufficient assurance.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
FROM LEIGH HUNT, ESQ.
BOSTON.
5, York Buildings, New Road,
April 23, 1832.
SIR,
I regret extremely that unceasing avocations and ill-health
prevent my attendance to-day at the meeting of the Co-ope-
rative Societies. It is no common necessity, I assure you,
that withholds me-my heart is very much with you all.
I believe I was the first journalist who had the honour of en-
deavouring to impress upon the public the propriety of con
sidering the views of your excellent founder. Opinions
might differ with regard to some of them; I, myself, did not
agree with every one; but the great point was heartily to
set about making some great practical efforts for the good of
mankind; and I was delighted to meet with the rare specta-
cle of a philosopher, who was prepared to do as well as talk.
People say that the ancients could do nothing, with all their
philosophy; and that all human history, for six thousand
years, traditional and otherwise, is only a record of man's
wishes to be better off than he is, and his inability to be so.
But the ancients, Sir, had no Press, as we have, to give
every one the benefit of every other person's thought and co-
operation-to write, as it were, the wishes of the whole
family of mankind on the sky at noon-day; and as to six
thousand years,-long and serious as the pains has been that
have been mixed up with their better days,-what are six
thousand years compared with the vast epochs of time which
lie before us, and for which the unceasing yearnings after
amelioration, during those years, ought surely to be consi-
dered rather as a proof that something will be done, than
that it will not? Why does Nature make us fresh uneasiness
at any time, but to invite us to get into its opposite state of
ease? And is this principle to hold good in the smallest cases,
and not in those of the greatest importance? Six thousand
years are but as a dot in the space of time; and those who,
from the history of that little speck, would pronounce upon
all that is to happen during the boundless future, surely
make the most wonderful judgments upon a very small as-
sumption. To me, the incessant desire of the human race to
be better off in their moral and social relations, is only a proof
127
that the better condition is to be attained by the very instinct
of the desire; and it is a great consolation, meanwhile, to
think, that if no classes of society are so happy as they might
be in their present state, the reason is, that none ought to be
happy till all are so, lest their joint efforts should never come
perfectly into play. As to the religion of the question, which
by no means need be left out in this point of view, where is
the religion upon earth, that does not invite men to be better
and happier in this world, as well as in the next? Christianity,
of all religions, as being the most sympathetic, eminently
encourages them to be so; and its most unbounded believers
are of all men the least justified in opposing the progress of
societá, or even its perfectibility; for they themselves preach
it, when they preach the millennium. Let us recollect what
was said by a wise man with regard to the supposed contra-
diction between the claims of this life and a future one; that
it would be a very strange and ungrateful thing if we be-
haved ourselves gloomily or indifferently in a beautiful gar-
den which some friend gave us, because by and by he pro-
mised us a better. It surely is impossible to look well at this
garden the earth, and at all its fellow-stars in the sky, and not
believe that all were created to be happy, though perhaps,
the happiness of each is of such a nature as can only be
worked out through the experience, and endeavours, of the
creatures to whom the instinct is imparted for that purpose.
Pardon, Sir, the time I have taken up, very superfluously,
I fear, with this letter; but in the heartiness of my symyathy
with the endeavours of my friends, I could not help pouring
myself forth a little, and touching upon some of the chief
imaginary obstacles in the way of universal effort.
I am, Sir,
With many thanks for the honor the Committe have done me,
Their most obliged and obedient Servant,
LEIGH HUNT.
To Mr. J. D. Styles, &c. &c.
LETTER FROM DR. WADE TO THE EDITOR OF THE "STANDARD.”
SIR,-Having seen in your paper a letter to the Rev. Dr.
Wade, relative to the new Association, lately formed, to remove
ignorance and poverty by education and employment; and as
that letter is calculated to prejudice weak minds against the best
parts of the practical measures intended to be acted upon by the
Association, in order to remove ignorance and poverty, and
consequently vice from society, the Governor, Directors, and
Committee of the Association, having no other objeet in view
than the permanent good; of all classes in this and every other
country, request you to insert the inclosed letter from Dr.Wade,
which they consider a full reply to every thing that can be writ-
ten upon a subject so calculated to mislead and irritate the human
mind at this moment, when it is the most necessary to create
128
PARENT
union and harmony to save our common country from violence
and ruin.
་
{
I am, Sir,
In the name of the Association,
Your most obedient Servant,
ROBERT OWEN, Governor.
Institution of the Industrious Classes,
near the King's Cross, New Road,
13th Jan. 1832.
London, 12, Waterloo Place, Pall Mall, Dec. 29.
SIR,-In reply to your letter of remonstrance, I beg to say, I
respect the opinions and feelings of every conscientious person,
whatever may be his religious creed; and being deeply interest-
ed in the prosperity of the Church of England, whose tolerant
doctrines I admire, whilst I at the same time wish to see a re-
form in the discipline and temporal abuses in it, I must confess
that I think the uncalled-for denunciations and intolerant spirit
you displayed on the 19th inst., at the meeting for improving
the intellectual and moral condition of the industrious classes,
was more suited to the character of a persecutor than of a re-
conciler of man to his brother man, and of mankind in general
to Christianity.
Our blessed Lord, when he asked the woman of Samaria for a
'draught of water, condescendingly evinced how much he ap-
proved of industrious habits in the humbler classes; and in his
conversation explained to her that no religious differences were
to prevent the mutual interchange of good offices.
Why should we abandon the benevolent practice of the Divine
Founder of our faith, who went about doing good, by refusing
the industrious classes of our day any good in our power to be-
stow, on account of differences in religious opinions?
Persecution has had its trial and failed: it only made men
hypocrites or slaves. The holy bonds of the gospel are those of
righteousness, charity, peace, friendship, mutual forbearance,
and love-not the galling chains of slavery and ignorance.
Your objection to have the working classes taught literature and
science, unless with a fettered conscience, is to wage war with
rational religion itself, of which these are the handmaids. Your
further desire to prevent them using the talents, whether few or
many, which God has given them, is to take upon yourself a re-
sponsibility greater than that of the timid and slothful servant,
who offended his master by churlishly withdrawing his solitary
talent from the public service, and hiding it in the earth. In the
heat of your zeal for the Church of England, you forget that she
herself prays for the widest separatists from her communion, and
would not force them into her fold by severity and revilings, but
lead the way by kindness and the removal of all ignorance. The
very circumstance of my being called to the chair at the London
Bazaar Meeting, demonstrates that there was no hostility to reli-
gion or to the church of England. The meeting only adopted the
principle of not giving offence to any sects or parties by extend-
129
ing liberty of opinion to all, for the sake of obtaining the greates
amount of social and moral happiness to mankind in general, and
to the industrious classes in particular.
Why then, should you or I, who have so many other opportu-
nities of disseminating our own peculiar tenets, be such niggards
of our benevolence, such bigots in our sentiments, as to deprive
our poorer neighbours of the valuable assistance of their rich and
enlightened brethren if they will not submit to our dictation as
to the means to be pursued?
To act thus, is a sort of spiritual Quixotism, a zeal without
knowledge or discretion—it indicates a spirit very different from
that of genuine Christianity, whose badge is peace and good-will
to all men. The domination you recommend to be exerted every
where and upon all occasions, would render us backsliders in
humility, and robbers of, instead of benefactors to, the public
weal, whether religious or moral, intellectual or political. Let
me in my turn, and reciprocating all your courteous phraseology,
advise you to grant that liberty to others which you demand for
yourself. I entreat you not to put it on as a cloak for malicious-
ness, but, contrariwise, that when you attend meetings called for
charitable purposes, men may see your good works and glorify
your Father which is in heaven. Do not abuse our liberty by
making any endeavours, however feeble or fruitless, to damp the
humane feelings of hundreds of individuals of both sexes, all
classes, and various opinions-attacking indiscriminately those
of your own and other creeds, because they co-operate as one
great family, to relieve the necessities of those who, however
willing and well-disposed, are not able to provide sufficiently for
themselves.
In conclusion, permit me to mention that Ihave good reason
to believe that the late Sir Samuel Romilly and Lady Romilly,
were most favourable to Mr. Owen's plan for generally employ-
ing and educating the poor, and so were the late Archbishop of
Canterbury and the Bishop of Durham, as well as his late Royal
Highness the Duke of Kent.
Wishing, therefore, that you may not wrest the excellent text
quoted in your letter, to light the fires of theological hatred, and
pervert what was intended by a beneficent Creator for the benefit
of all to the injury of any; but rather, that you may betake your-
self to read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest the Holy Scrip-
tures for the sake of your own improvement in religious
knowledge and practice, I have the honour, sir, to remain a
sincere well-wisher to freedom of conscience to all, to the tem-
poral and eternal happiness of the working classes, and your
very obedient, humble servant,
ARTHUR S. WADE, D. D.
To Edmund L. L. Swifte, Esq.,
Jewel-house, Tower, London.
7

Dom w k
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3. Malá kall kot 65 22+ mavirtaal gest
}

|
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
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334 C782 1831
Co-Operative Congress (2nd: 1831: Birm
Proceedings / Reported by John and James
3 1951 002 296 758 C
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