The chronicle of Eger Tobacco Factory

The cigar factory

After the bales were opened the tobacco leaves were separated, loaded into crates and sprinkled with water. When the tobacco leaves reached the suitable level of dampness, selection, the job requiring the greatest attention followed. Fine, large and unbroken leaves were suitable for rolling the cigars in, the rest for filling the cigars. Pedicels were removed by means of a double- bladed knife. After preparation and selection the tobacco leaves were ready for cigar production. Cylinder-shaped ordinary cigars were rolled in form. Similar negative forms were used for quality cigars to achieve the regular bulge down the middle. Some were cut at the head, others cut at fire end or completely overwrapped. Cigar processing comprised three essential phases. The bunch maker prepared and rolled the cigars bunch, the cigar overwrapper sitting opposite adroitly plaited it, and a tip cutter in every production department removed all superfluous parts from the cigar. The bunch maker was subordinate to the overwrapper who would make the former perform tasks including sweeping around the table, warming her lunch, carrying water and other chores. Ten-hour days were the standard in most factories in the country at the turn of the century; { paid holidays were unknown in the tobacco industry.