Historical information

Kerosene lanterns like these were commonly used from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century before electric lighting became widespread.
Railway & Signal Use – Some lanterns, particularly those with enclosed rear casings, may have been used as railway signal lamps.
Camping & Outdoor Use – The smaller, lightweight designs were portable, making them useful for camping, farming, and night-time travel.
Household & Industrial Lighting – Before electrical grids, kerosene lanterns were used for home lighting, barns, and industrial workspaces.

Physical description

This collection consists of several rusted kerosene lanterns, showing various designs that were common in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Key features include:
Metal body construction, likely iron or steel, with a cylindrical glass globe in most of the lanterns.
Protective wire guards, designed to shield the glass globe from breakage.
Carrying handles and hanging hooks, allowing them to be portable or mounted.
Some lanterns feature side reflectors or enclosed rear casings, suggesting they may have been used as railway or signal lamps.
Different shapes and sizes, some with rounded oil reservoirs, while others have flat-bottomed bases for stability.
The lanterns show significant wear, with rust and corrosion evident on the metal parts, and some globes showing dirt, soot, or residue from past use.