A vesta case, or simply a “vesta” is a small box made to house wax, or "strike anywhere", matches. The first successful friction match appeared in 1826, and in 1832 William Newton patented the "wax vesta" in England. It consisted of a wax stem with embedded cotton threads and a tip of phosphorus.

What is a Vesta case used for?

Vesta cases are small portable boxes made to contain matches and keep them dry. They take their name from the Roman goddess of fire and the hearth, although in the United States they are more prosaically know as match safes.

When were Vesta cases used?

Vesta cases were most popular between 1890 and 1920. During this period matches were required for other domestic appliances including lighting or cooking and, as a result, most were ready with matches at all times. This need for matches allowed for a great vareity in sizes of both matches and the boxes or cases.