What were the wages of a matchstick girl?
Frequently Asked Question about the extinct profession: Matchstick Girl
In the 19th century, matchstick girls, often young and working in poor conditions, earned very low wages, typically around 2 to 4 shillings per week. Their pay was insufficient to support themselves, leading many to live in extreme poverty. The harsh working conditions and low wages were highlighted in literature, notably in Hans Christian Andersen's tale "The Little Match Girl."