Images(3)

Lamp, Kerosene

Object number2015.23.4

Manufacturer J. Anton & Son

Datec. 1904

OriginMonongahela, PA

MediumBrass/Metal/Tin(?)/Fabric

Credit LineGift of Richard P. Anton

DescriptionMiner's kerosene lamp. Conical-shaped brass body with soldered seams. Round hinged cap with vent hole. Tapered spout soldered to body with burnt wick inside. Bent wire hanging hook with a pointed tip is soldered in a socket opposite the spout.Dimensions3 x 1.875 x 3.375 in. (7.6 x 4.8 x 8.6 cm)
MarksStamped maker's mark on the front of the spout showing an eagle with banner above and below with text "U.S.A. EAGLE / TRADE MARK / [illegible] / J. ANTON & SON / MONONGAHELA, PA."; the illegible text on the eagle's shield chest likely read "PAT. / MAR. 29, / 1904" based on the similar-style maker's mark on 2015.23.2.
Historical NotesAdaptations to mining lamps tried to resolve the danger of an open flame with the desperate need for illumination underground. The Anton brothers of Monongahela, Pa., George, John, and Christopher, each began making lamps during the 1870s. Later George and John began marketing their lamps under the name Geo. Anton STAR brand lamps. The quality construction and brand name made them popular. Patents by the Antons added several features – a circular bezel under the spout to collect drippings from the wick and prevent the miner’s cap from catching fire and a double wall construction to maintain heat and ensure the lamp burned steadily and did not go out. In the 1910s carbide lamps began to replace these open flame lamps.

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