Children dancing to organ music, 1894

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Children dancing to organ music, 1894

Group of young girls dancing to the music of a street organ, London. The sign on the organ Fair-Priced Organ authorised to engage dancers on the societys terms refers to a Organ-Dancers Union, run by children in 1894

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 4398411

© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10221925

1894 Authorised Dancers Engage Organ Priced Refers Societys

EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken in 1894, depicts a lively group of young girls dancing exuberantly to the melodic tunes of a street organ in London. The organ, bearing the sign "Fair-Priced Organ, Authorised to Engage Dancers on the Societys Terms," is a testament to an intriguing historical phenomenon. The Organ-Dancers Union, run by children, was a unique organization that emerged during the late Victorian era. Street musicians, particularly organ grinders, would often employ young children to dance around their instruments to attract crowds and generate more tips. This practice, while common, was not without its challenges. To ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for the child dancers, the Organ-Dancers Union was formed. The union authorized specific organs and their operators to engage dancers, ensuring they adhered to the societies terms. This photograph offers a glimpse into the vibrant and colorful world of London's streets in the late 19th century. The girls, dressed in their Sunday best, radiate joy and excitement as they dance in unison to the music. Their infectious energy and the lively atmosphere around the organ create a scene that is both charming and evocative of a bygone era. This photograph, from the extensive collection of Mary Evans Prints Online, is a valuable historical document that sheds light on the unique social dynamics of urban life during the Victorian period. It invites us to reflect on the resilience and resourcefulness of children in the face of adversity and the rich cultural traditions that continue to shape our cities today.

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