Matchmakers Collection

Matchmakers
Girls cutting and packing at Bryant and Mays match factory

Matchmakers / London / 1871
Female matchmakers working in the East-End of London

A halfpenny tax per box was put on matches in 1871. Matchmakers were some of the most poorly paid works in the East End
527656 A halfpenny tax per box was put on matches in 1871. Matchmakers were some of the most poorly paid works in the East End of London

March of London matchmakers protesting against halfpenny tax on every box of matches, 1871 (wood engraving)
3245400 March of London matchmakers protesting against halfpenny tax on every box of matches, 1871 (wood engraving) by British School, (19th century); Private Collection; Peter Newark Pictures

Heroic attack upon the little matchmakers and matchsellers on the Thames Embankment (engraving)
610360 Heroic attack upon the little matchmakers and matchsellers on the Thames Embankment (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

Matchmakers Demo - 1871
THE MATCHMAKERS PROCESSION This demonstration in London against working conditions led to reforms, but also to charges of police brutality Date: May 1871

BRYANT & MAY MATCHMAKERS BRYANT & MAY MATCHMAKERS
Women boxing wax vestas at the Bryant & May factory. Date: 1888

Bryant & May Matchmakers
A group of women employed at Bryant & May cutting down & boxing Ruby & Runaway Matches. Date: 1888

MATCHMAKERS DEMO / 1871
THE MATCHMAKERS PROCESSION This demonstration in London against working conditions led to reforms, but also to charges of police brutality

Matchmaking / Bells Works
Women filling matchboxes at R. Bell & Co. Date: 1900

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"Matchmakers: The Unsung Heroes of London, 1871" In the bustling streets of London in 1871, matchmakers played a vital role in lighting up the lives of its residents. Bryant & May they were at the forefront, producing boxes filled with tiny sticks that ignited flames and brought warmth to countless homes. However, this year marked a significant turning point for these unsung heroes. A halfpenny tax was imposed on every box of matches sold, leading to an uproar among the matchmakers. Marches and protests flooded the city as they fought against this burden on their livelihoods. Wood engravings captured one such protest where matchmakers from all walks of life united along the Thames Embankment. Their heroic attack against injustice depicted their resilience and determination to protect their trade. The Bells Works became synonymous with matchmaking excellence as Bryant & May Matchmakers continued to produce high-quality products amidst adversity. Their name echoed through time as they stood firm against unfair taxation. Through it all, these matchmakers demonstrated unwavering solidarity during what came to be known as "The Matchmaker's Demo. " They refused to let their flame be extinguished by oppressive policies and instead lit up London with unity and strength. So next time you strike a match or light a candle, remember those brave individuals who fought for your ability to bring illumination into your home - the matchmakers who shaped history in more ways than we can imagine.