October Fall Classic
Lot 1305:
Description
This is an exceptional example of a classic piece of railroadiana history: an Adlake “Non-Sweating Lamp” marker lantern. Produced by the Adams & Westlake Company of Chicago, these lamps were essential safety equipment, mounted on the rear of a train to indicate its presence and status to signalmen and other trains. This four-way model, with its visible blue (or lunar white) and red lenses, would display the train’s classification or position. The “Non-Sweating” design, a signature of Adlake, was engineered to prevent condensation (sweating) on the interior of the lenses, ensuring visibility in all weather conditions. The lamp retains its top-mounted carry handle and its original fount and burner assembly is present inside, stamped with Adlake markings, showing it was designed for oil use. The lamp body, made of painted sheet metal and cast iron, is currently mounted to a modern dark-stained wooden base for display. Condition is consistent with a genuine, used railroad artifact: there is overall oxidation and surface rust, particularly on the chimney vent and the perforated burner sleeve, paint loss and chips on the red and white enamel reflector shields, and flaking paint on the black body. The blue lens is intact, showing some internal striations. The lamp appears structurally sound and makes a terrific display piece. H 22″, W 11″, D 11″. See photos.
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