By the time this manuscript was written in the late eighteenth century, the inclusion of fireworks at celebrations across Europe had been well-established for centuries. In the second half of the eighteenth century, commercial firework displays in particular rose in popularity among audiences across the social spectrum. This collection is comprised of a single manuscript volume with contemporary binding, quarter leather, with marbled paper over boards, all edges speckled in red, and silk endbands. Produced in England circa 1780, the volume consists of 13 leaves containing ink drawings of designs for artificial fireworks.

The New England Fireworks Manufacturing Co. manufactured fireworks and created displays for theatrical performances and civic celebrations throughout New England. The company was incorporated in 1925. Its headquarters were located on Union Street in Springfield, Massachusets. The company also had a plant in neighboring North Thompsonville, Connecticut. This collection documents the business transactions of New England Fireworks Manufacturing Co.

The Vitale Fireworks Manufacturing Company was founded in New Castle, Pennsylvania by Italian immigrant, Constantino Vitale (1876-1949) in 1922. It became a family business as his four sons and one of his sons-in-law joined him in the management and operation of the company. In 1993, the company was reorganized and now does business as Pyrotecnico FX. This collection consists of a proof and the printing plate it was made from of a page from a fireworks catalog put out by the Vitale Fireworks Manufacturing Company of New Castle, Pennsylvania.