Bryant and May Matchbox and Holder
Object
Matches
Object number
2025.21
Physical Description
Bryant and May metallic matchbox and holder. Matchbox is metallic gold with a wooden part inside. There is an image of Fairfield Works, Bow, London on the back.
There are also four wooden pieces that were originally inside the matchbox but have since fallen out, one of which is presumably the striking element for the matches.
There are also four wooden pieces that were originally inside the matchbox but have since fallen out, one of which is presumably the striking element for the matches.
Object history
The Fairfield Works safety match factory was first established in 1861 by William Bryant and Francis May in Bow, East London. At the time, it was the biggest factory in London and by 1911 it employed more than 2000 women and girls. This object is a matchbox that was produced at the Fairfield Works factory.
In 1888 there was the historical Match Girl's Strike caused by poor working conditions, pay and fines, and health complications caused by working with white phosphorus. The successful strike led to the creation of Britain's first trade union for women.
The factory eventually closed in 1979. Today, the site was part of east London's renewal projects and is now the Bow Quarter flat complex.
In 1888 there was the historical Match Girl's Strike caused by poor working conditions, pay and fines, and health complications caused by working with white phosphorus. The successful strike led to the creation of Britain's first trade union for women.
The factory eventually closed in 1979. Today, the site was part of east London's renewal projects and is now the Bow Quarter flat complex.
Associated Organisation
Bryant and May (Manufacturer)
Associated Place
Bow (Place)
Material
Metal
Dimension
Height: 37mm
Width: 84mm
Depth: 59mm
Width: 84mm
Depth: 59mm
On display?
No
Inscription
Bryant & Mays
Patent Safety Matches
Prize Medals
Protection from first, Protection to health
ARE NOT POISONOUS
Harmless to those employed in the manufacture
Patent Safety Matches
Prize Medals
Protection from first, Protection to health
ARE NOT POISONOUS
Harmless to those employed in the manufacture