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David Carson (c. 1851–1909)

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David Carson [Carl Henrik David Carlson] (1851-1909) seaman, wharf labourer and Socialist 

Birth: about 1851 at Gothenberg, Sweden, son of Carl Magnus Carlson, baker. Marriage: about 1877 at Poplar, London, England, to Elizabeth Tiller. They had one son. Death: 9 December 1909 at Pyrmont, Sydney, New South Wales. 

  • Spent part of his early working life at sea. Came to Australia c.1889, settling Sydney.
  • Worked on wharves, living in Pyrmont in house called ‘Liberty Hall’.
  • Dedicated rank-and-file member of the Australian Socialist League (ASL)/Socialist Labor Party from 1891. Joined ASL about 1891. Assisted Andrew Thompson in revival of ASL after 1894 "Solidarity Pledge" split in Political Labor League.
  • Distributed literature in the Domain, organised socials at ASL's Leigh House, and participated in May Day celebrations.
  • Member of West Sydney Fishing Club.
  • Cause of death: cardiac and renal disease. At his death he was reputedly “the oldest member of the SLP”.

Sources
R. Sharpe MA thesis, 2003; The People, 11, 18 December 1909.

Additional Resources

  • tribute, People (Sydney), 18 December 1909, p 3

Related Entries in NCB Sites

Citation details

'Carson, David (c. 1851–1909)', People Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://peopleaustralia.anu.edu.au/biography/carson-david-33976/text42579, accessed 27 July 2024.

© Copyright People Australia, 2012

Life Summary [details]

Alternative Names
  • Carlson, Carl Henrik David
Birth

c. 1851
Gothenburg, Vastra Gotaland, Sweden

Death

9 December, 1909 (aged ~ 58)
Pyrmont, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Cause of Death

heart disease

Cultural Heritage

Includes subject's nationality; their parents' nationality; the countries in which they spent a significant part of their childhood, and their self-identity.

Occupation
Political Activism