October Fall Classic
Lot 1307:
Description
This is a phenomenal grouping of three vintage railroad lanterns, representing a classic era of American rail signaling equipment. The lot includes two traditional oil-style marker/signal lanterns with wire guards, one featuring a clear globe and the other housing a distinctive blue globe, which typically indicated restricted speed or was used as a marker light. The third piece is a later Economy Electric Lantern No. 301, clearly marked on the top: “ECONOMY ELECTRIC MADE IN U.S.A. NO. 301V PAT. NO. 1906587 by ECONOMY ELECTRIC LANTERN COMPANY CHICAGO”. This battery-powered lamp, with its distinctive curved wooden handle, would have been used by conductors and trainmen later in the 20th century. The two taller lanterns feature galvanized tin/steel construction with wire bails; the shorter one is aluminum or polished steel with a bentwood handle and heavy wire base. All three pieces show significant age and use, consistent with their operational life on the railway: the metal exhibits a heavy patina, surface rust on the bails and guards, scuffing, and minor pitting. The clear and blue glass globes appear intact. The Economy Electric lantern’s clear glass lens is present, and the wooden handle shows expected wear and finish loss. This is a great, diverse selection for the dedicated rail collector. H 16″, W 6″, D 6″ (for the two larger lanterns). H 11″, W 5.5″, D 5.5″ (for the shorter lantern). See photos.
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