Congreves
A predecessor of Lucifer matches. The splints were first dipped
in sulphur, and then tipped with the chlorate of potash paste, in which
gum was substituted for sugar, and there was added a small quantity of
sulphide of antimony. The match was ignited by being drawn through a
fold of sand-paper with pressure. These matches, being dangerous, were
prohibited in France and Germany. (See Prometheans;Lucifers )
Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894 More on Congreves from Fact Monster:
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