Can you identify this "Thing"?

[CeBe]

It belonged to my Grandmother's brother-in-law. He was born in Ireland and died in Scotland in 1901. On census forms he was listed as a "Banksman at a colliery", a "Foundary labourer", and a "Tube work labourer".

The "Thing's" measurements are 2 1/2 inches X 1 1/2 inches X just less than 1/2 inch wide.

The top flips open. His name is engraved on the long side.

[CeBe]

Oops - it was my Grandmother's UNCLE - but everything else the same.

[oldtimer]

Is it a vesta case?

[aspin]

Its not a cigarette box is it
Elizabeth

[trellisick]

must go along with vesta case, kali.

[oldtimer]

It is a wonderful keepsake to have

[Berlin-Bob]

try vesta case in a search engine


e.g.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesta_case

Bob

[old rowley]

As others have said this is a vesta case and going by the symbolism etched on to it, it belonged to a member of the masons.

OR

[CeBe]

Now I've looked at the bottom of the "thing" and there is a criss-cross pattern that is worn in the centre - so I think you've hit the match on the head.