The friction match was invented
in England in 1829. Soon thereafter, they were made of phosphorus
tips. Prior to the use of matches, a tinderbox and materials were used
to create a spark to ignite a fire, something very time consuming. On
the other hand, the matches worked too easily, often causing accidental fires!
Therefore match safes were invented and became very popular.
They protected the matches against accidental combustion and moisture.
Many were quite opulent, like a jewelry accessory. Their use died
out after 1892 when paper match books were invented, and especially after
the 1920's when mechanical cigarette lighters were perfected. They
make for a striking collection, though.
The match safes shown below are from my collection. Most are made
of sterling silver. Many have makers' names. Both the front and backs
are shown. .... ..... The two on the left have glass covered, sealed compartments
to shake dice for an impromptu game. .... ....... The one at the lower right
(see the second picture especially) is both figural (shaped like a liquor
bottle and advertising (says "The National," Wm. F. Morris Proprietor, Cor.
Bergen Ave., and Montgomery St., Jersey City NJ) ... ..... The brass one
at the upper right has a jockey cap, good luck horseshoe, horse head and
saddle .... ...... The most valuable ones are in the center, the three that
have two whist scorers on one side. Note that on two of them, the moveable
dials are missing.
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