A new exhibition tells the story of the former Bryant & May match factory in Maryhill.
And personal accounts of people who worked at the plant in Shuna Street feature in the show.
The factory opened at the former Macfarlane’s Ruchill Sawmills in around 1918.
Matches were essential household commodities back then and Bryant & May were Britain’s leading manufacturers.
By 1921, the company was making the iconic Scottish Bluebell matches in Glasgow.
Smell
The smell of sulphur and other chemicals used in the process was strong in the surrounding area.
-900.png)
The factory closed in the 1970s but some of the buildings remain on Shuna Street.
Strike! Stories of Bryant & May is running at Maryhill Museum within Maryhill Burgh Hall throughout the summer.
The exhibition incorporates the work of local artist Rabia Saleem who has created work in various media.
Her works are inspired by the 1888 match strikes of London that saw unskilled women demanding better conditions.
Her work and the story of the local factory have been brought together to form the exhibition.
I like that the exhibition explores aspects I didn’t touch upon and connects the 19th century labour strikes to recent history.
Rabia Saleem
Wyndford-based Rabia said: “It’s a unique exhibition as my artworks are being displayed within the larger context of the history of match manufacture in Britain and the memories of former Bryant & May employees.
“I like that the exhibition explores aspects I didn’t touch upon and connects the 19th century labour strikes to recent history.
“I am proud that some of my work is now on display as part of that exhibition.
“It has not only helped me personally, but it has also given me a platform to develop as an artist.”
The exhibition iruns throughout Summer 2023, at Maryhill Burgh Halls, 10-24 Gairbraid Avenue G20 8YE.
Entry is free and opening hours are Mon-Fri 10am-5pm.
