John Walker – lighting up the world
Welcome to “John Walker – lighting up the world” which tells the story of the invention of a simple commodity, the Friction Match, by John Walker of Stockton-upon-Tees in 1826. An invention which literally changed the course of history, providing a spark which lit-up the industrial revolution in England and igniting a global industry which at the end of the 19th Century was as significant as today’s technology giants. It’s a fascinating story, exploring social history, forestry, chemistry, graphic design, shipping, politics, high-finance and industrial relations.
To celebrate John Walker’s life-changing invention and to leave a legacy for future generations the British Matchbox Label and Bookmatch Society has created a a documentary film, an on-line exhibition and a 60-page booklet which you can access from the buttons below.
