Nestled in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, resides an ardent collector whose passion for vintage matchbooks has propelled him to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest collection. Mr. William “Bill” Oglesby, a native of the historic city, has dedicated decades of his life to amassing an astonishing collection of these ubiquitous yet captivating artifacts.Nestled in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, resides an ardent collector whose passion for vintage matchbooks has propelled him to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest collection. Mr. William “Bill” Oglesby, a native of the historic city, has dedicated decades of his life to amassing an astonishing collection of these ubiquitous yet captivating artifacts. Spanning over six decades of collecting, Oglesby’s matchbook collection has grown to an astounding 240,399 distinct pieces, a testament to his meticulous pursuit and unyielding fascination with these miniature gems of advertising and design. Each matchbook, a tiny portal into the past, carries its own unique story and reflects the changing societal norms and marketing strategies of its time. From sleek Art Deco designs of the 1930s to vibrant Pop Art motifs of the 1960s, Oglesby’s collection chronicles the evolution of graphic design and advertising. Each matchbook serves as a glimpse into the businesses, events, and personalities that have shaped Richmond’s rich history. “I’ve been collecting matchbooks since I was a paperboy in the 1950s,” Oglesby explained. “I was fascinated by their colorful designs and the stories they told. I started saving them, and over the years, my collection just grew and grew.” Oglesby’s dedication to his collection is evident in the meticulous organization of his matchbooks. They are carefully categorized by brand, location, and theme, each one meticulously arranged in custom-made display cases. His home has been transformed into a living museum dedicated to the preservation of these cherished artifacts. The Guinness World Record recognition is a fitting tribute to Oglesby’s lifelong passion and the significance of his collection. It not only cements his status as a world-renowned collector but also underscores the historical and cultural value of vintage matchbooks. “My matchbooks are more than just a collection,” Oglesby said. “They are a piece of our shared history, a reminder of the daily lives of people who came before us. I’m honored to be able to preserve and share them with the world.” As the world’s largest collection of vintage matchbooks, Oglesby’s legacy will endure as a testament to his passion for collecting and the enduring charm of these humble yet captivating relics of the past.