Manchester Bee: the 'buzzin' heart of the city
Ireland has the shamrock, Canada has the Beaver and Manchester has the worker Bee.
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A symbol that represents the beating heart of the city. It has become the identification of a region, a motif for the masses. Sharing similarities with the buzzing six-legged creatures, residents of the city carry an air of togetherness and community, working almost symbiotically to ensure the success of the greater mission. A perfect comparison to Northern spirit.
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Manchester achieved City status in 1853, its coat of arms was created, incorporating 7 bees to represent Manchester as ‘a hive of activity’ and its citizens as ‘worker bees’ during the time of the Industrial Revolution. The bee can be spotted all over Manchester, from the town hall tiled mosaic floor to the public bins and bollards throughout the city. The logo has passed the test of time and in turn evolved, creating new meaning on individual levels for people all over the city. The idea of what the Bee is has become a personal connection, allowing Mancunians respective representation while remaining part of a wider commonality. It is evident commuting the streets that there is an awareness of the need for community, the want for collaboration.
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The significance of the emblem increased after the tragic bombing of the MEN arena in May 2017, where 22 people lost their lives. The city was shell shocked. In light of this, the symbol took on an even greater significance, transitioning from simply a representation to a badge of defiance. A reminder of the atrocities that the city and its people faced on that day. In the days following the attack, thousands of Mancunians queued to commemorate the victims and showing their solidarity with a tattoo of the bee.
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Image Source: Unsplash
It is estimated that over 10,000 people were tattooed in the following days with people as old as 80 taking part. Local artists donated the proceeds they received to the fund that was established to help the victims and their families. A beacon that highlighted the strength of unity.
Proudly stating their products are “designed by Mancs, for Mancs”, one company who is championing this beloved northern spirit is The Manchester Shop. Acting as unofficial merchandise for the city, they are mad about everything bee related. Located on the ground floor of Afflecks Arcade, Oldham Street. They embody everything Manchester. It truly is a one stop shop for residents who want to represent their homeland. Partnering with multiple local charities, The Manchester Shop is a shining light in the town centre.
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The Manchester Shop:
