Historical information

The Bryant and May Factory is located in the suburb of Cremorne in Melbourne, Australia. It was constructed in 1909 as the Empire Works to a design by prolific Melbourne architect William Pitt. It was purchased soon after by British safety match manufacturer Bryant and May who significantly expanded the building adding an additional level and the landmark clock tower.

Bryant and May were unique in that they operated as a model factory providing workers with conditions and amenities which even today seem generous. These included a dining hall and sports facilities such as a tennis court and bowling green which were constructed in the 1920s.

Bryant and May ceased Australian match manufacture in the early 1980s as a result of import competition. Their iconic Redheads matches are now imported from Sweden. The complex has since been converted for use as offices and showrooms but is extremely well preserved. It is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.
Source: www.wikipedia.org

Significance

Local social history of Bacchus Marsh

Physical description

Metal matchbox holder for a matchbox-one side has a photo of a local cricket team, the other side has a caricature of a man's face when held one way up is smiling and when turned up the other way the face is looking unhappy. The cover is blue with yellow.
The matchbox cover is made of a thin veneer wood. The makers inscription is in blue and red.

Inscriptions & markings

Cover/spine: Strike The Border Inn Bacchus Marsh for a good spot Phone 16 Cyril Jones, Proprietor.
Cover/side: This man always calls in at the Border Inn. This Man wishes he did
Matchbox:Bryant & May's "Crown" Safety Matches