A rare model of a Go To Bed with a Berry patent stamp to the lid.
It is turned from lignum vitae. The box is designed so that the match sits between the gap of the two discs on the top and is pulled out causing friction which in turn would ignite the match.
It is bigger than most Go To Beds measuring approx 9.5cm h x 4.5cm w.
C1830
The first match boxes were designed to hold a bottle of Sulphuric Acid in the centre with Potassium Chlorate coated matches around the edge. These matches would ignite when dipped in the acid.
By the 1830s, friction matches had taken their place, and hence, there was no need for acid. The boxes changed style to have single compartments with an external striker. The bottom of the box would have glass paper recessed into the bottom, or the base would have grooved circular lines to create friction. Very occasionally, there was a third design made by Berry, as shown here. On the top of the box are two parallel discs: the lower disc forms part of the lid and the upper disc can be moved up or down on a short threaded spindle to vary the space between the discs. The gap would be opened to allow the match-head to be inserted between the discs and then closed slightly to hold it in position. The match would then be pulled out, creating the friction which would light it.