Milwaukee's fight for the eight hour day

There was a test of wills

At Bey views rolling mills

A fight for the eight hour day

The Guard were called out

As the workers shout

Eight hours no reduction in pay

Verbal orders mixed up

As the guard raised their rifles up

Firing a volley of lead

And when the smoke had cleared

The worst was feared

Seven or more lay dead

Gone was their eight hour day

The one we enjoy today

As we remember that fateful day

That tragic fifth of May   .........1886