Historical information

These kinds of pier lamps or lights were used on the seaward the ends of Williamstown piers in the 1860s to 1920s to guide ships safely into harbours, channels and slips after dark. They were robustly designed and made to withstand the elements and to protect the flame in bad weather. The coloured glass panels, typically red or green, enabled ships to identify the correct side of a channel. They had to be maintained on a daily basis to ensure the safety of ships enterig the harbour.

Physical description

Kerosene burning pier lamp/light. Six sided metal lamp housing with glass inserts on all six sides, three plain and three red painted. A side hinged door provides access to the lamp. Detachable breathing chimney painted black.

Inscriptions & markings

On wick turner: “Kosmo Brenner”