The American Matchcover Archive


A digital repository dedicated to the conservation and celebration of the American matchbook cover — a pocket-sized canvas that once served as the primary advertising medium for 20th century commerce. 

We hope to honor this everyday, utilitarian item not merely as ephemera, but as a significant artifact of graphic design history. 

Explore the Archive





Wood Wonders

A selection of captivating wood-textured matchbooks advertising lodging & eateries.
Hotel Cordell Hull
Gallatin, Tennessee
The Shelby Inn
Shelby, Ohio
El Capitan Motel
Gallup, New Mexico
The Original Elk Hotel & Restaurant
Port Jefferson, New York
Roosevelt Hotel & Motel
Anchorage, Alaska
Mapletown Dinette
St. Johnsbury, Vermont
Twin Falls Lodge/Hawks Next Lodge
Saulsville/Anstead, West Virginia


Sleepy Hollow Court
Alburquerque, New Mexico

Home