Match the Matchbook: The lost collection of vintage matchbooks by Bill Jackoboice

Once a common keepsake from restaurants, golf courses, and special events, matchbooks have all but disappeared from the modern scene. Over the years, I've had the pleasure of collecting matchbooks from some of the finest places, each one holding a story and a memory. While most places no longer offer these tiny pieces of nostalgia, I’ve decided to share my collection with fellow enthusiasts and anyone curious about this lost art. Through this blog, I hope to keep the charm of matchbooks alive, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of simple yet meaningful souvenirs.

Bill Jackboice Vintage Matchbook Collection

Remember the days when matchbooks were everywhere? Whether you were at a fancy restaurant, a local bar, or a famous golf course, you could always count on grabbing a matchbook as a small memento. They were more than just a practical tool to light a cigarette or a candle—they were a symbol of the place you visited, a keepsake with character.

Today, matchbooks have become a rare sight. In our fast-paced, digital world, it seems most establishments have moved away from offering these once-common items. And while they may be vanishing from countertops and check presenters, their charm lives on in the hearts of collectors like me. I’ve spent years gathering matchbooks from some of the best restaurants, clubs, and places I've visited, each one offering a piece of nostalgia.

But the reality is that matches, much like matchbooks, are gradually fading into history. Lighters, electronic alternatives, and even restrictions on smoking have made them less relevant. Soon, the simple act of striking a match may be as old-fashioned as winding a pocket watch. It’s a bittersweet reality, and one that I want to celebrate before these little treasures are gone for good.

That’s why I, Bill Jackoboice, have decided to start this blog—to keep the memory of matchbooks alive and to share my collection with fellow enthusiasts and anyone who stumbles upon this lost art. Every matchbook tells a story, not just about where it came from but about the era in which it existed. Through this blog, I’ll be featuring new vintage matchbooks on a regular basis, spotlighting unique designs, interesting histories, and the stories behind the places they represent.

So, whether you’re a fellow collector, someone who remembers grabbing a matchbook from your favorite restaurant as a kid, or you’re simply curious about this fading piece of history, welcome! I hope this blog offers a glimpse into a time when a simple matchbook could spark a memory—and not just a flame.

Check back often at www.billjackoboice.com, as I’ll be showcasing new pieces from my collection, keeping the tradition alive one matchbook at a time.