The Incomplete, True, Authentic and Wonderful History of MAY
DAY
AUTHOR'S NOTE
The little history that you're holding in your hand has grown from an
earlier version published last year called "The Silent Speak." There's more
information this year, thanks to conversations in Quincy with John Wilshire
and Monty Neill and thanks to newspaper research by Jonathan Feldman and
John Roosa. Bryn Clark made a portable Maypole last year which we capered
around at the Bank of Boston. We were gratified by the interest shown by
lunchtime workers but also struck by how widespread May Day amnesia had
become. So, this year we have added some 'how to' sections, on games
(p.5), on the Maypole (p. 11), and on getting to Merry Mount (p. 16), which
we hope may make it more practical. Last year's May Day demonstration
against Kruggerand gold encouraged us to add (an incomplete) list (p. 16)
of the many May Day events this year. We especially thank Gene Bruskin and
Jim Green who have helped to plan the demo against apartheid and the
centennial celebration at Faneuil Hall, respectively. Dana Moser helped
with the graphics. Hohn Flym, DeAnn Burrows, Mike Ryan, and friends in
Teas, Rochester, Nigeria, Big Indian, Somerville, Belize, and Tufnell Park
have provided support and encouragement. And thanks to the workers at Copy
Cop.
In San Francisco, they used to say that if you didn't like the history we
have so far, go out and make some that you do like. The same can be said
of this story, so if it is to continue to grow please submit new
contributions for next year to Peter Linebaugh, [Midnight Notes collective
member, P.O. Box 204, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, midnotes@aol.com].
May First, 1986.
Midnight Notes collective: midnotes@aol.com
web person: chris@midnightnotes.org
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