The collection of lanterns was acquired by Robin Dale Holbrook, a Kentucky native born in Salyersville on February 6, 1961. He resided and worked in Banner, Kentucky as a physician's assistant employed at the Eula Hall Health Center for over 30 years. His life was lost in a tragic motorcycle accident on May 31, 2019. His collection of railroad and signal lanterns was donated to the Morehead Railroad & Historical Museum as a memorial to his memory by his wife Angie Holbrook in 2020.
The Morehead History & Railroad Museum is a public institution formed in 2016. The museum resides in a converted Passenger Depot which was built in 1881 by the Elizabethtown, Lexington, and Big Sandy Railroad Company. Ownership of the depot changed hands with the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad Company in 1892 and operated until the late 1960’s. The building remained unused until it was renovated in 2014 and officially recognized by the National Register of Historic Places in 2016, leading to the formation of the museum later that year. The museum features artifacts relating to the history of the six railroads that traversed the Rowan County area, the Rowan County War, and the agricultural history of Kentucky.
Photographs, artifact research, and metadata conducted by Jacob Matthew Bush and Christian Wright.
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Adlake Kero (14)
Adams and Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa. 1923. This lantern appears to be one of the early versions of the Adlake Kero economic styled lanterns. The economic bell bottom models of the "kero" line of lanterns are among the most recognized railroad lanterns, they were used in large numbers by Canadian railways. This particular lantern is stamped on the cap and globe with the initials C.&.O which signals its use by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway system. The globe of this lantern is red which would have been used to signal stop or danger.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (12) (C&O)
Adams and Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa. 1923. This lantern appears to be one of the early versions of the Adlake Kero "Fantasy" models, these "Fantasy" style lanterns were recognizable by the patterns on the bottom base of the lanterns that often appear to be floral in nature. This particular lantern is stamped on the globe with the initials C.&.O which signals its use by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway system.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (13)
Adams and Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa. 1923. This lantern is estimated to be one of the early streamline economy lanterns created me Adklake. The brand was popular on Canadian railways.
The average Adlake globe of this lantern has been removed and was replaced with a red Dietz Vesta globe.
Red globes are used to signal stop or danger.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (4)
Adams & Westlake Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa 1913. Red globe was a signal for stop or danger. Serial number 45910.
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Adlake Kero (5) (Hiram L. Piper Lantern)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa 1930. The brim of this lantern is stamped with the inscription Hiram L. Piper Co of Montréal, Canada. Adlake is a major Chicago manufacturer of lanterns and was widely used by Canadian railways.
The globe of this lantern is tinted red which was a widely used signal for railways to signal stop or to alert of danger.
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Adlake Kero (6) (I.C.R.R Lantern)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa 1913. The brim of the lantern is stamped with The Adams & Westlake Co. makers mark and the initials I.C.R.R most likely standing for the Illinois Central Railroad. The globe of this lantern is blue meaning that it would be hung on equipment to signal that it should not be moved from the area or task it was currently being used for.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (10) (C&O)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa. 1923. This lantern appears to be one of the early versions of the Adlake Kero economic styled lanterns. The economic bell bottom models of the "kero" line of lanterns are among the most recognized railroad lanterns, they were used in large numbers by Canadian railways. This particular lantern is stamped on the cap and globe with the initials C.&.O which signals its use by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway system.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (11) (Sou.Ry.)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa. 1925. This model of the Adlake Kero is the most common of the brand, featuring a silver finish that is most recognizable in the later economic models of the "kero" line, they were used in large numbers by Canadian railways. This particular lantern is stamped on the cap and globe with the initials Sou.RY. Signaling its use by the Southern Railway which operated between 1894-1982. The Red Globe of this lantern would have been used to signal stop or danger.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (1) (CMSTP&P)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa 1930. Used by the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad (CMSTP&P).
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Adlake Kero Lantern (2)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa 1913. Red globe was a signal for stop or danger.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (3)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero lantern, circa. 1913. This artifact was used by the Handlan St. Louis Railroad.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (7)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa 1913. The Adlake Kero lanterns are manufactured by the Adams and Westlake Manufacturing Company and were widely used by Canadian Railroads. This lantern features a short globe with a red tint which would be used to signal stop or danger.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (8)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa 1913. The Adlake Kero lanterns are manufactured by the Adams and Westlake Manufacturing Company and were widely used by Canadian Railroads. This lantern features a clear globe, stamped on the globe and on the cap of the lantern are the Adlake insignia. Stamped on the brim is the full Adams & Westlake name.
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Adlake Kero Lantern (9) (C&O)
Adams & Westlake Manufacturing Company
Adlake Kero Lantern, circa. 1930-1935. This artifact is estimated to be one of the first editions of the Adlake Kero lanterns that helped launch the 60 year continuous models. The engravings on the bottom of this lantern are known as "fantasy" markings which help distinguish the early models as well as the flat wire base which in later models is raised. Due to deteroration of the lid much of the lettering has become difficult to read.
The lid and globe of this lantern is stamped with C.&.O which signals its use by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway system.
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Aguila Lux Kerosene Lantern
Aguila Lux Stamping Company
Aguila Lux Kerosene Lantern, circa. 1953. This lantern is a product of the same tooling that was originally used by the Embury Lantern Company for their Air Pilot lanterns. When the company was sold to the R.E. Dietz Manufacturing Company in 1953 the tooling was sold to a stamping company in Monterrey Mexico. The globe features an Eagle which is known as and Aztec mark. Aztec marks are used in multiple lantern productions that were sold to Mexican stamping companies.
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Armspear 1925 Lantern (2) (N&W. RY)
Armspear Manufacturing Company
Armspear 1925 Lantern, circa. 1925. This artifact is a post World War 1 Armspear Lantern. The 1925 model lantern was Armspear's introduction into the short globe lantern market. This would continue to be the major model in production by Armspear until production was contracted to the Adams and Westlake manufacturing company, who produced an Armspear line very similar to the Adlake "Kero" model of lanterns.
Stamped on the brim of this lantern are the initials N&W.RY signaling the use of this lantern by the Norfolk and Western Railway.
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Armspear 1925 Lantern (3)
Armspear Manufacturing Company
Armspear 1925 Lantern, circa. 1925. This artifact is a post World War 1 Armspear Lantern. The 1925 model lantern was Armspear's introduction into the short globe lantern market. This would continue to be the major model in production by Armspear until production was contracted to the Adams and Westlake manufacturing company, who produced an Armspear line very similar to the Adlake "Kero" model of lanterns.
The globe of this lantern seems to be a replacement globe produced for an Adlake Kero lantern, and it is stamped with C&O which most likely signaled the use of the globe and a previous lantern by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad.
Stamped on the brim of this lantern are the initials N&W.RY signaling the use of this lantern by the Norfolk and Western Railway before the globe was replaced.
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Armspear Tall Guard Lantern (1)
Armspear Manufacturing Company
Armspear Tall Guard Lantern, circa. 1907. The Armspear Manufacturing company produced lanterns of extremely good quality. Their steel "Guard" lanterns feature a twist off font for easier accessibility. The company mirrored many of their designs and patents from their predecessor the Railroad Signal Lamp and Lantern Company.
Stamped on the globe of this artifact is (C. & O. RY) which represents its use by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad Company.
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Chalwyn "Lynx" Lantern
Chalwyn Manufacturing Company
Chalwyn "Lynx" Lantern, circa. 1961. Chalwyn was an England based manufacturer and distributed oil burning products including hurricane lanterns.
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Chalwyn Xenon Strobe Lantern
Chalwyn Manufacturing Company
Chalwyn Lantern, circa. 1961. This lantern is estimated to have been used for signaling purposes most likely by a traffic or railroad organization. It features a xenon strobe globe which would have given off a bright short term flash. Chalwyn was an England based manufacturer and distributed oil burning products including hurricane lanterns.
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C&O RY Lantern
Chesapeake and Ohio Railway
Chesapeake and Ohio Railway Lantern. This artifact is of unknown use and origin. The body of the container seems to act as a font leading up to a cloth end with scorch marks, on the base of the artifact is a stamp spelling C&O RY. One speculation for the use for the artifact is that it may have served as a tunnel torch for lighting tunnels.
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Dressel Lantern (1) (N.Y.C.S)
Dressel Lamp & Signal Company
Dressel Lantern, circa. 1940. The Dressel Railway Lamp & Signal Company was incorporated in 1922. It was formerly known as Dressel Railway Lamp Works, New York City and was originally established in 1882 This lantern is estimated to have been constructed after 1940 when Dressel ended the stamping on the bottom side of their lanterns. On the brim of the cap is stamped the initials (NYCS) for the New York Central System.
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Dressel Lantern (2) (GM&O RR)
Dressel Lamp & Signal Company
Dressel Lantern, circa. 1940. The Dressel Railway Lamp & Signal Company was incorporated in 1922. It was formerly known as Dressel Railway Lamp Works, New York City and was originally established in 1882 This lantern is estimated to have been constructed after 1940 when Dressel ended the stamping on the bottom side of their lanterns. On the brim of the cap is stamped the initials (GM&O RR) for The Gulf, Mobile and Ohio Railroad)
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Economy Electric Ecolite Electric Lantern
Economy Electric Lantern Company
Economy Electric Ecolite Lantern, circa. 1930. This electric lantern is a no. 400 model camp lantern featuring two bulbs. Patent no.1906587
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Elgin Lantern
Elgin Manufacturing
The origin of this lantern is unknown. There are estimations that it was possibly used by the Chicago Aurora and Elgin Railroad Company. This artifact however lacks any form of manufacturing marks or patented date except for a No. 10 on the globe.
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Embury Little Supreme Lantern (1)
Embury Manufacturing Comapny
Embury Little Supreme Lantern, circa. 1939. This general use lantern was original designed and produced by the Embury Manufacturing Company. It is estimated that this lantern was produced before the buying of the Embury company by the R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company in 1953, but was most likely continuously produced after that date. The red globe of this lantern would have been used to signal stop or danger in official signaling terms.
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Embury 162 Supreme Lantern
Embury Manufacturing Company
Embury 162 Supreme Lantern, circa 1911. The Embury Manufacturing Company was created in Rochester, New York on November 27th, 1908. The founder of the company was William Chamberlin Embury who had experience working in a Canadian tin lantern company known as Kemp Manufacturing located in Toronto, Canada.
The Embury Company moved to Warsaw, New York in 1911 where it operated until 1952 when the company sold its assets to the R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company.
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Embury Elgin Lantern (3)
Embury Manufacturing Company
Embury Elgin Lantern, circa. 1939. This lantern is estimated to be a product of the Embury Manufacturing Company as a variation of the no. 2 Cold Blast. It is suspected that this lantern was a general or utility lantern.
The Embury Manufacturing Company was created in Rochester, New York on November 27th, 1908. The founder of the company was William Chamberlin Embury who had experience working in a Canadian tin lantern company known as Kemp Manufacturing located in Toronto, Canada.
The Embury Company moved to Warsaw, New York in 1911 where it operated until 1952 when the company sold its assets to the R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company.
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Embury Little Air Pilot Lantern
Embury Manufacturing Company
Embury Little Air Pilot Lantern, circa. 1939. This lantern is similar in manufacturing of the mainline Embury no.2 air pilot model of lantern. It is estimated that this model was created around the same time or shortly after the no.2 and would have been produced until the Embury Company was purchased by the R.E. Dietz Manufacturing Company in 1953. The "Air Pilot" line of lanterns was introduced in 1939 to replace the "Supreme" model of lantern.
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Embury No.2 Air Pilot Lantern
Embury Manufacturing Company
Embury No.2 Air Pilot Lantern, circa. 1939-1953. The maker's marks on each side of the tank read as follows: "Embury No. 2 Air Pilot" and Embury MFG. Co, Warsaw, NY USA. The "Air Pilot" line of lanterns was introduced in 1939 to replace the "Supreme" model of lantern.
The "Embury Manufacturing Company" was incorporated on November 27, 1908 and located at 189 Platt Street, Rochester, NY. The company later sold to the R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company in 1953.
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Feuerhand Germany Baby #275 Lantern
Feuerhand Manufacturing Company
Feuerhand Germany Baby lantern, circa. 1950. The Feuerhand Manufacturing company was a West Germany based manufacturer of hurricane lanterns. The "Baby" model of lanterns was one of the most popular models produced by the company during World War II and production continues under the new Petromax group who acquired the Feuerhand trademark in 2014.
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Handlan Signal Lantern (3) M.U.D
Handlan-Buck Manufacturing Company
Handlan Signal Lantern, circa. 1930's. While the model of this lantern is unknown. The Handlan-buck manufacturing company produced many signaling lanterns for railroad and industrial use. This specific artifact was used by Metropolitan Utility District (M.U.D) out of Nebraska supplying drinking water and natural gas for Omaha, Nebraska and surrounding cities.
Stamped on the red tinted globe is the Handlan name, red globes would have been used to signal stop or danger.
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Handlan Signal Lantern (4) (N.Y.C.C)
Handlan-Buck Manufacturing Company
Handlan Kerosene Signal Lantern, circa. 1930's-1940's. Lantern features a steel cage with the Handlan manufacturing stamp on the top and bottom of the lantern. Stamped on the brim of the lid and on the clear globe are the initials NYCS signaling the use of this lantern by the New York Central System.
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Handlan Signal Lantern (5) (Pennsylvania Lines)
Handlan-Buck Manufacturing Company
Handlan Kerosene Signal Lantern, circa. 1930's-1940's. Lantern features a steel cage with the Handlan manufacturing stamp on the top and bottom of the lantern. Stamped on the brim of the lid and on the clear globe is the name of the railroad company which the lantern was sold to which was the Pennsylvania Lines.
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Handlan Signal Lantern (7)
Handlan-Buck Manufacturing Company
Handlan Signal Lantern, circa. 1930's. While the model of this lantern is unknown. The Handlan-buck manufacturing company produced many signaling lanterns for railroad and industrial use. This specific artifact is stamped as the property of Elizabethtown Cons Gas Co. It is estimated That this is an old name of the Elizabethtown Gas Company located in New Jersey.
Stamped on the red tinted globe is the Handlan name, red globes would have been used to signal stop or danger.
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Handlan Signal Lantern (1) (MOPAC)
Handlan Manufacturing Company
Handlan Kerosene Signal Lantern, circa. 1930's-1940's. Lantern features a steel cage with the Handlan manufacturing stamp on the top and bottom of the lantern. Stamped on the brim of the cap and on the globe are the letters MOPAC which signals the use of this lantern by the Missouri Pacific Railroad.
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Handlan Signal Lantern (2)
Handlan Manufacturing Company
Handlan Kerosene Signal Lantern, circa. 1930's-1940's. Lantern features a steel cage with the Handlan manufacturing stamp on the top and bottom of the lantern. Stamped on the brim of the lid are the initials NYCS signaling the use of this lantern by the New York Central System.
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Handlan Signal Lantern (6)
Handlan Manufacturing Company
Handlan Kerosene Signal Lantern, circa. 1930's-1940's. This lantern is different from other Handlan products, it features a style similar to traffic lanterns made by the Dietz company though it is only estimated that this would be its use. The Handlan company produced mostly kerosene signal lanterns out of St. Louis Missouri. The red globe of this lantern would have been used to signal stop or danger.
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Johnson Urbana Torch
Johnson Manufacturing Company
Johnson Urbana Torch, circa. 1902. The Johnson Manufacturing company was established in 1902 in Urbana, Ohio. The company produced a variety of hand crafted tools for use in railroad lines across America. They included oiling cans, torches, a variety of lighting tools, signaling devices and other associated equipment. The company changed their focus from railroads to the trucking industry in 1939.
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Dietz #39 Standard Lantern
R. E. Dietz Company
Dietz #39 Standard Lantern, circa. 1906. The Dietz #39 Standard came in a number of different styles among those was the "Vulcan" model which were manufactured without a bellbottom base like that of the "Empire" and "Vesta" models of lanterns. The "Vulcan" featured both twist off and insertion fuel founts, later models featured a flat top. It is estimated that production of this model ended in the 1950's
information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz 8-Day Lantern
R. E. Dietz Company
8-Day Dietz Lantern, circa. 1934. The Dietz 8-Day model came in two forms with the first being the "Square" fuel tank. The 8-Day used a special Fresnel globe, which was an alteration to the globes used for the Dietz Little Wizard model. The globe is also a LOC-NOB. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming the wick. The red tint of the globe was used in traffic or signaling situations to pass an order to stop or warn of danger.
Some information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Crescent Lantern
R. E. Dietz Company
Dietz Crescent Lantern, circa. 1912. The Dietz Crescent was an attempt to make a cheaper more obtainable lantern than the Dietz #2 Blizzard. The Crescent was made of tin and was made with non-reinforced air tubes. The globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming the wick.
information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Wizard Lantern (1)
R. E. Dietz Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1913. Globe is a LOC-NOB. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming the wick. Attached to the lantern is a Do-Ray red lens manufactured in Chicago, Illinois.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Monarch Lantern
R. E. Dietz Company
Dietz Monarch Lantern, circa. 1900. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming the wick.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Crystal (2)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Comapny
Dietz "Crystal" Lantern, circa 1891. The Dietz Crystal was produced in around 5 different models. This lantern is believed to be the first or second of the earliest models of the lantern. This model features no guard wire like that on other Crystal models. It is possible that the guard wire may have been removed for the attachment of the Buckeye Dash Lamp Lens Attachment which is featured on the back of the lantern.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Victor Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Comapny
Dietz Victor Lantern, circa. 1931. The Dietz "Victor" was the most popular square tube hot blast lantern, this artifact is most likely produced in 1931 or after due to the fact that the term Fitzall was not present on the globe.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz #3 Police Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz #3 Police Lantern, circa. 1890. The Dietz Police Lantern models came in four different configurations, it is estimated that this model is the first of the four types. The first manufactured models featured two hand grips and a belt clip. Police lanterns were sometimes called "Dark Lanterns" as the brightness of the lantern could be adjusted or hidden as the operator chose. These models of lantern were able to use kerosene, candles, or whale oil. They were cheaply manufactured with sheet metal and a tin overlay.
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Dietz Acme Inspector Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Acme Inspector Lantern, circa. 1900-1960. The Acme Inspector was one of if not the most popular inspection lantern sold by Dietz for use on railroads. The lantern was the last model of square tube "hot blast" lanterns with its production ending in or around 1960.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Atlantic Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Atlantic Lantern, unknown date. This lantern is estimated to be manufactured by the Dietz Manufacturing company. It features a Loc-Nob Fitzall globe which appears to be the appropriate globe for this lantern. The Dietz catalogue however, does not feature an "Atlantic Model".
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Dietz "Crystal" Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz "Crystal" Lantern, circa 1891. The Dietz Crystal was produced in around 5 different models. This lantern is believed to be the first or second of the earliest models of the lantern. This model features a single horizontal guard wire that is soldered into the air tubes which was only seen in the pre 1989 models. Later models would feature the familiar cross guard style of most other lanterns. This lantern as well is known as a #0 is more common than the #2 variations.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Giant (1)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Giant Lantern, circa. 1927-1957. The Dietz Little Giant is an alternative form of the Dietz Little Wizard. The Little Giant features a larger fuel tank and alternative wicks (the area that holds the flame of the lantern). The Little Giant is most often stamped with the company who purchased it to deter theft, it was used in similar fashion to the Dietz 8-day lantern by traffic and construction companies on barricades.
The Little Giant could keep a constant flame for around 70 hours making it a good signaling lantern for use throughout the week. After the Dietz factory was moved to Hong Kong in 1956 the Little Giant would be rebranded as the No. 1 Little Wizard.
The globe of this lantern is a LOC-NOB, LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming the wick.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Giant no.100
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Giant no.100, circa 1956. The Dietz Little Giant is an alternative form of the Dietz Little Wizard. The Little Giant features a larger fuel tank and alternative wicks (the area that holds the flame of the lantern). The Little Giant is most often stamped with the company who purchased it to deter theft, it was used in similar fashion to the Dietz 8-day lantern by traffic and construction companies on barricades. This lantern is a variation of the original Little Giant and lasted only a short time before the rebranding of the model into the Little Wizard.
The Little Giant could keep a constant flame for around 70 hours making it a good signaling lantern for use throughout the week. After the Dietz factory was moved to Hong Kong in 1956 the Little Giant would be rebranded as the No. 1 Little Wizard.
The red globe of this lantern would have been used to signal stop or danger.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Wizard (8)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1913. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Though there were multiple variations of the Little Wizard, this artifact appears to be of the first version which featured a smaller fuel tank. This would have been replaced in the 1950's by a larger tanked version. Attached to the clear globe is an alternative glass which is red, this most likely would have been used to signal stop or danger.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
Lantern is on loan to the collection by David Crouch
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Dietz Little Wizard Lantern (2)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1913. Globe is a LOC-NOB. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick. This lantern features a globe which appears to have been altered with paint or some other form of red material. It is unclear if this improvised coloring would have been used to signal stop or danger.
In the 1950's a special large tank version was introduced that had the same size tank as the streamline Blizzard and D-Lite lanterns. The Little Wizard was used on street barricades prior to the development of battery powered strobe flashers. Custom imprinted lanterns were ordered for government agencies, cities and municipalities so that ownership was never in question.
information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Wizard Lantern (3)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1913. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick. The globe of this lantern is tinted red to signify stop or danger.
In the 1950's a special large tank version was introduced that had the same size tank as the streamline Blizzard and D-Lite lanterns. The Little Wizard was used on street barricades prior to the development of battery powered strobe flashers. Custom imprinted lanterns were ordered for government agencies, cities and municipalities so that ownership was never in question.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Wizard Lantern (4)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1913. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
This artifact appears to be the model of Little Wizard created before the 1950's due to having a smaller fuel tank. Post 1950's a larger fuel tank version of the Little Wizard was implemented giving the model a larger base.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Wizard Lantern (5)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1913. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Though there were multiple variations of the Little Wizard, this artifact appears to be of the first version which featured a smaller fuel tank. This would have been replaced in the 1950's by a larger tanked version. The red globe of this lantern would have been used to signal stop or danger.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Wizard Lantern (6) Bureau of Street Traffic
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1913. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Though there were multiple variations of the Little Wizard, this artifact appears to be of the first version which featured a smaller fuel tank. This would have been replaced in the 1950's by a larger tanked version. The red globe of this lantern would have been used to signal stop or danger.
Stamped on the fuel tank of this lantern is "Bureau of Street Traffic" it is estimated that this was the official traffic organization of New York. The globe used by the Bureau of Street Traffic is often an amber color.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Little Wizard Lantern (7)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Little Wizard Lantern, circa 1956. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Though there were multiple variations of the Little Wizard, this artifact appears to be of the first version which featured a smaller fuel tank. The bottom of the lantern is stamped with "Hong Kong" it is estimated that this lantern was created at the official Dietz factory of Hong Kong established in 1956.
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Dietz Monarch Lantern (2)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Monarch Lantern, circa. 1910. The Dietz Monarch came in at least seven variations, this model is believed to be one of the later six. The first Monarch model featured a flat top and was replaced in 1910 by the more common dome style. It is a possibility that this model is the more common Monarch 'streamline' which is the most common Monarch variant was widely used for a filming purposes in Hollywood and remained in production until the 1960's.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Monitor Side Lamp
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Monitor Side Lamp, circa. 1911. The Dietz Monitor Side Lamp was estimated to be used for motorized vehicles, but may have also been used for carriages. The lantern features a blue glass/globe, in signaling terms this is often used to signal inspection or repairs. Rather this is the use on carriages or on automobiles is unknown.
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Dietz Night Watch Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Night Watch Lantern, circa. 1950. The Dietz Night Watch model of lantern was introduced as a replacement to the Dietz "8-Day" model of lanterns until 1956 when the Night Watch was replaced by the Dietz no. 40 Traffic Gard model. The Night Watch was used by traffic and construction companies for road blocks. The red globe would have been used to signal stop or danger.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Night Watch Lantern (2)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Night Watch Lantern, circa. 1950. The Dietz Night Watch model of lanterns was introduced in 1950 as a replacement for the Dietz "8-Day". The Night Watch featured an updated fuel tank similar to the Dietz Little Wizard and was used in a multitude of similar task including traffic and construction work.
The Night Watch remained in production until 1956 when the purchase of the Embury Manufacturing Company by Dietz took place. Replacing the Night Watch with the Embury #40 Traffic Gard now under the Dietz name. The globe of this lantern is a tinted red, which would have been used to signal stop or danger.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 20 Junior Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 20 Junior Lantern, circa. 1989. This lantern model is one of the three major Dietz Lanterns still in production after 120 years. The Junior model is one of the most copied forms of lanterns due to its economically cheap but sturdy style. The Junior replaced the Dietz No. 1 Blizzard as the most sought after model for this reason.
information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 2 Blizzard Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz no.2 Blizzard Lantern, circa. 1958. Globe is a LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming the wick.
The Dietz Blizzard is one of the most well recognized lanterns of the company and has been and continues to be produced for over 120 years.
information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern (1)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern, circa. 1919. The No. 2 D-Lite replaced its predecessor the original D-Lite which proved to be unaffordable due to its top lifting telescopic chimney. The No. 2 D-Lite combined the D-Lite and No. 2 Wizard to create a side lifting lantern that was more affordable.
The LOC-NOB globe of this lantern is red signaling stop or danger. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern (2)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern, circa. 1919. The No. 2 D-Lite replaced its predecessor the original D-Lite which proved to be unaffordable due to its top lifting telescopic chimney. The No. 2 D-Lite combined the D-Lite and No. 2 Wizard to create a side lifting lantern that was more affordable.
The globe of this lantern is a LOC-NOB, LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern (3)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern, circa. 1919. The No. 2 D-Lite replaced its predecessor the original D-Lite which proved to be unaffordable due to its top lifting telescopic chimney. The No. 2 D-Lite combined the D-Lite and No. 2 Wizard to create a side lifting lantern that was more affordable.
The globe of this lantern is a LOC-NOB, LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick. The lantern appears to be painted a different shade than its original production color.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz no.2 D-Lite Lantern (4)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern, circa. 1919. The No. 2 D-Lite replaced its predecessor the original D-Lite which proved to be unaffordable due to its top lifting telescopic chimney. The No. 2 D-Lite combined the D-Lite and No. 2 Wizard to create a side lifting lantern that was more affordable.
The globe of this lantern is a LOC-NOB, LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick. The red tint of the globe would have been used to signal stop or danger.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz no.2 D-Lite Lantern (5)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern, circa. 1919. The No. 2 D-Lite replaced its predecessor the original D-Lite which proved to be unaffordable due to its top lifting telescopic chimney. The No. 2 D-Lite combined the D-Lite and No. 2 Wizard to create a side lifting lantern that was more affordable.
The globe of this lantern is a LOC-NOB, LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz no.2 D-Lite Lantern (5)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 2 D-Lite Lantern, circa. 1919. The No. 2 D-Lite replaced its predecessor the original D-Lite which proved to be unaffordable due to its top lifting telescopic chimney. The No. 2 D-Lite combined the D-Lite and No. 2 Wizard to create a side lifting lantern that was more affordable.
The globe of this lantern is a LOC-NOB, LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 2 Paull's Leader Lantern (1)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Paulls Leader Lantern, circa. 1946. Stamped into the globe are the terms D-Lite LOC-NOB. D-Lite refers to a smaller version of tall globes similar to those used for the Dietz Wizards. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globes used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick.
This lantern was produced by the Dietz Manufacturing Company after the purchase of the Nail City Lantern Company in 1946. The Nail City Lantern Company originally produced out of Wheeling, West Virginia starting in 1878 under Archibald Woods Paull Sr.. The company was renamed the Wheeling Stamping Company in 1897, it produced both lanterns and other metal and glass items.
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Dietz No. 40 Traffic Gard Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 40 Traffic Gard Lantern, circa. 1953. This model of lantern was first manufactured by the W.C. Embury Company and exclusivley sold to highway contractors and utility companies. When the Embury Company was bought out by Dietz in 1953 they continued production of the Traffic Gard which replaced multiple models already sold by the Dietz company due to its manufacturing cost and popularity.
The red tinted globe was used to signal stop or danger.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 8 Air Pilot Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 8 Air Pilot Lantern, circa. 1953. After the purchasing of the Embury company by Dietz in 1953 the No. 8 Air Pilot replaced the Embury No.2 and No. 1 as the main model for the air pilot models. Production of this model for a time was centered in Mexico and can be identified by Aztec stamps. This model is estimated to be produced in the US as there is no such Aztec stamp.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz No. 8 Air Pilot Lantern (2)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No. 8 Air Pilot Lantern, circa. 1953. After the purchasing of the Embury company by Dietz in 1953 the No. 8 Air Pilot replaced the Embury No.2 and No. 1 as the main model for the air pilot models. Production of this model for a time was centered in Mexico and can be identified by Aztec stamps. This model is estimated to be produced in the US as there is no such Aztec stamp.
The globe of this lantern is green which would have been used to signal that it was safe for the vehicle or train to proceed safely through.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Scout Lantern
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Scout Lantern, circa. 1918. This lantern was first produced after the first World War and most likely served as a side lamp for vehicles or for personal use by individuals. The stamping on the top of the lantern is a sign that this lantern is one of the later versions of this model.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Steel Clad (C&O RY)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Steel Clad Lantern, circa. 1887-1940.The Dietz Steel Clad was modeled in similar fashion to the Dietz #39 Standard. Like the Standard the Steel Clad came in many of its own variations. This artifact appears to be one of the earlier versions of the model as in its later versions a flat top was introduced.
The red lantern which would have been used to signal stop or danger is stamped with C8O RY which points to the use of this lantern by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Vesta (3)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Vesta Lantern circa, 1906. There are four versions of the Dietz Vesta all with different sized globes and choices of manufacturing. This lantern is estimated to be the second or third type of the model which stands around 10 inches tall.
Stamped on the lid is the phrase New York Central, this is estimated to mean that the lantern was used by the New York Central Railway system.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Vesta Lantern (1) (N.Y.C.S)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Vesta Lantern circa, 1896. There are four versions of the Dietz Vesta all with different sized globes and choices of manufacturing. This lantern is estimated to be the final type of Vesta with a 10 inch globe which was manufactured up until the 1957 when Dietz Manufacturing facilities shifted to Hong Kong for cheaper manufacturing. The red globe of this lantern which would be used to signal stop or danger is stamped NYCS for use under the New York Central System which was the largest user of the Dietz Vista.
information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz Vest Lantern (2) (N.Y.N.H & H.R.R)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz Vesta Lantern circa, 1896. There are four versions of the Dietz Vesta all with different sized globes and choices of manufacturing. This lantern is estimated to be the final type of Vesta with a 10 inch globe which was manufactured up until the 1957 when Dietz Manufacturing facilities shifted to Hong Kong for cheaper manufacturing.
The red globe of this lantern which would be used to signal stop or danger. The globe is stamped N.Y.N.H&H.R.R. which represents the use of this lantern by the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad Company which operated from 1872-1968.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Unidentified Dietz Lantern (N.Y.L.O)
R. E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
The exact design of the lantern is unknown, it closely resembles the Dietz Monarch and Paulls. The globe is a LOC-NOB, LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming the wick.
Stamped on the fuel container is the initials N.Y.L.O which is once again unidentifiable, but is estimated to be some form of New York railroad or traffic organization.
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Dietz No.999 Lantern
R.E. Dietz Manufacturing Company
Dietz No.999 Lantern, circa. 1929. This lantern is one of the more rare Dietz lanterns that shares qualities similar to the Adlake "Kero" model of lanterns. This lantern would be used mostly by railroad companies. This particular lantern is stamped N.Y.C.S which is an abbreviation of the New York Central System.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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Dietz King Fire Department
R. E. Manufacturing Company
Dietz Fire Department Lantern, circa. 1906. The Dietz Fire Department of lantern was widely used by fire department companies around the United States. It was manufactured in two similar forms, the older from featured a drop down cage. Those manufactured after 1906 were hinged caged.
A majority of this style of lantern were made of brass, copper, or other soft materials. It is estimated that production of this lantern ceased in 1939.
Information provided is altered from W.T. Kirkman Lanterns. https://lanternnet.com/
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CSA Lantern
Undetermined
The manufacturer and production of this artifact are unclear. It is estimated that this lantern is a possible replica of a Confederate States of America lantern. There are no manufacturer marks or patented dates. The front of the artifact has a large CSA emblem and appears to have modern screws in its production.
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Sears Elgin Lantern (2)
Undetermined
Sears Elgin Lantern, circa 1939. It is estimated that this lantern was produced for the Sears company during 1939. It is unknown which company was the producer of this lantern. Sources refer to this lantern as being purposed for use as a barn lantern.
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Unidentified Lantern
Undetermined
This lantern is of an unknown manufacturer and production date. It is estimated that this artifact was used by inspectors or police for investigative purposes. The artifact closely resembles a "Dark Lantern" which was a classification of lantern that could adjust the amount of light that is released based on the users choice. Due to concerns for the structural integrity of this artifact the interior globe and bottom cannot be shown.
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Unknown Lantern
Unknown
The origins of this lantern are unknown, it is estimated to be a general use lantern possibly used for nautical signaling based upon its small size and the handing handle. The globe of this lantern is red which would normally be used to signal stop or danger.
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Paull's No. 0 Lantern
Wheeling Stamping Company
Paull's No. 0 Lantern, circa. 1923. This lantern is believed to have been manufactured by the Wheeling Stamping Company, also sometimes referred to as the 'Nail City Lantern Company'. The company originated in 1877 Wheeling City West Virginia where it produced around 100 lanterns a day in the form of two variations called "Leader" lanterns. The lanterns were created entirely of raw materials available to the factory except for the globes, which were created at the Buckeye Glass Works, in Martin's Ferry Ohio.
The globe of this lantern has been replaced with a Dietz LOC-NOB Fitzall. LOC-NOB refers to the pair of ears on a Dietz lantern globe used to keep the globe from falling out when tilting the globe plate for lighting or trimming of the wick. Patented date 12-4-23
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Paull's no.0 Lantern (2)
Wheeling Stamping Company
Paull's no.0 Cold Blast Lantern, circa 1903. This lantern is believed to have been manufactured by the Wheeling Stamping Company, also sometimes referred to as the 'Nail City Lantern Company'. The company originated in 1877 Wheeling City West Virginia where it produced around 100 lanterns a day in the form of two variations called "Leader" lanterns. The lanterns were created entirely of raw materials available to the factory except for the globes, which were created at the Buckeye Glass Works, in Martin's Ferry Ohio.
This lantern features a patented date of July 30th, 1903 on the brim. On the fuel reserve is the label "Paull's" the namesake of the first president of the Wheeling Co. A.W. Paull.
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Paull's no.0 Lantern (3)
Wheeling Stamping Company
Paull's no.0 Cold Blast Lantern, circa 1916. This lantern is believed to have been manufactured by the Wheeling Stamping Company, also sometimes referred to as the 'Nail City Lantern Company'. The company originated in 1877 Wheeling City West Virginia where it produced around 100 lanterns a day in the form of two variations called "Leader" lanterns. The lanterns were created entirely of raw materials available to the factory except for the globes, which were created at the Buckeye Glass Works, in Martin's Ferry Ohio.
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Paull's no.0 Lantern (4)
Wheeling Stamping Company
Paull's no.0 Cold Blast Lantern, December 29th, 1980. This lantern is believed to have been manufactured by the Wheeling Stamping Company, also sometimes referred to as the 'Nail City Lantern Company'. The company originated in 1877 Wheeling City West Virginia where it produced around 100 lanterns a day in the form of two variations called "Leader" lanterns. The lanterns were created entirely of raw materials available to the factory except for the globes, which were created at the Buckeye Glass Works, in Martin's Ferry Ohio.
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Paull's no.0 Lantern (5)
Wheeling Stamping Company
Paull's no.0 Cold Blast Lantern, December 29th, 1980. This lantern is believed to have been manufactured by the Wheeling Stamping Company, also sometimes referred to as the 'Nail City Lantern Company'. The company originated in 1877 Wheeling City West Virginia where it produced around 100 lanterns a day in the form of two variations called "Leader" lanterns. The lanterns were created entirely of raw materials available to the factory except for the globes, which were created at the Buckeye Glass Works, in Martin's Ferry Ohio.
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Wuhu Flying Crane Lantern
Wuhu Manufacturing Company
Wuhu Flying Crane Lantern, circa. 1957. It is estimated that this lantern was produced by a Chinese manufacturing company known as the Wuhu Hurricane Lantern Factory established in 1957. The company is still in operation and produces a variety of kerosene lanterns.
