Did you, or a relative, work at the Ronson lighter factory in Newport?
A new heritage project is asking former employees of the Ronson Lighter Factory to help preserve the untold history of one of the Island’s most significant industrial communities.
Flame Keepers is seeking people with memories of the Ronson factory at Gunville, Newport – a facility so productive it was cited in Parliament by Isle of Wight MP Stephen Ross for turning out more than double the output of other Ronson factories across Europe.
Voices that must not be lost
At its peak, Ronson employed around 400 people and was a cornerstone of Isle of Wight industry, providing vital employment for women who made up the majority of the assembly line.
For many of them, the factory was more than just a workplace – it was a path to financial independence.
Patricia Kennedy, who worked at the factory for several years, remembers the sharp transition from classroom to factory floor.
“I left school at 16, had the weekend off, and then went straight into a 40-hour week job at Ronson. I was one of many young girls on the ‘valve-to-shell line’.
“The job I had was adjusting the flame height, and occasionally a lighter would catch fire, and you had to chuck it into the sand bucket beside you, and the line just kept going, you just had to keep up.”
More than just a workplace
Beyond the pressure of meeting productivity targets, the factory had a vibrant social scene where many friendships – and relationships – were formed.
Ronson fielded its own cricket team, entered floats into local carnivals, and hosted fancy dress parties.
The community was so tight-knit that many workers met their future partners there.
Ronson Reunited open day
To ensure these stories aren’t lost, Flame Keepers is hosting Ronson Reunited – an open day on Saturday, 16th May at Independent Arts in Newport.
Former workers are invited to drop in between 1pm and 4pm to reconnect with old colleagues, share memories of life on the line, and bring along any photos from their time at Ronsons.
Tracy Mikich, who is managing the project for Discover More CIC, said,
“Through Flame Keepers, we hope to uncover the untold stories of the Ronson factory and give them the recognition they deserve, ensuring this vital piece of working-class history is preserved.”
Flame Keepers is part of Creative Island‘s Past Futures programme, an 18-month initiative funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and overseen by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation.
Ronson Reunited
- When: Saturday, 16th May, 1pm–4pm
- Where: Independent Arts, 48 High Street, Newport, PO30 1EE
- Refreshments will be available. All former Ronson employees and their families are welcome.
Visit the Flame Keepers website to share your stories.
