John Walker exhibition 29, 30, 31 May 2026

As part of the weekend of celebrations to mark 200 years since the invention of the Friction Match by John Walker in Stockton-on-Tees in 1826, the British Matchbox Label and Bookmatch Society is organising a significant exhibition of matchboxes and matchbox related material at The Parkmore Hotel in Eaglescliffe, Stockton-on-Tees.

The Friction Match was an invention which literally changed the course of history, providing a spark which lit-up the industrial revolution in England and ignited a global industry which at the end of the 19th Century was as significant as today’s technology giants are today. This Exhibition celebrates John Walker and tells the story of how his invention was used, developed and improved to become the everyday match that we are all familiar with today. It is a fascinating story that explores social history, forestry, chemistry, graphic design, shipping, politics, high-finance and industrial relations.

The Exhibition is open all weekend, and on Saturday afternoon there will be a screening of our documentary film about John Walker (funded by a grant from the National Heritage Lottery Fund).

Tickets are available at £ 5 for one person or £ 10 for a family of four, and are valid for all three days. More details can be found below, together with information about tickets for the other events that take place during the weekend.

If you have any questions about the celebrations we would be pleased to hear from you johnwalker2026@phillumeny.com