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Collection Guide
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Santa Barbara Matchcover and Matchbox Collection
AR.2020.001  
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Collection Overview
 
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Description
Phillumeny is the hobby of collecting different match-related items. The Santa Barbara Matchcover and Matchbox Collection contains over 300 matchcovers and matchboxes of printed advertising graphics, primarily of Santa Barbara area businesses. Showcasing local brands and late 20th century commercial art styles, this collection is a consolidation of materials from several acquisitions. A digital exhibit of the two match container types, matchcovers and matchboxes, accompany this guide.
Background
Up until the mid-1990s, when smokers were plentiful, matches had far more utility than they do in the 21st century. Matches were handy, tiny fire sticks given away by businesses to propagate their brand. Matches allowed people to consume cigarettes and were therefore lifted from bars, restaurants and hotels by customers with the intent of striking them at a later time. With the declining number of smokers as well as laws prohibiting smoking in public establishments, complimentary matchboxes are now somewhat of a rarity.
Extent
333 Item(s)
Restrictions
Property rights reside with the Santa Barbara Historical Museum. For permissions to reproduce or to publish, please contact the Head Archivist of the Gledhill Library.
Availability
Collection is open for research.