Description
A classic piece of American railroad history, this 1923 Adlake Reliable railroad lantern was manufactured in the US for Southern Railway by the Adams & Westlake Company.
It retains its original red glass globe showing "Southern Railway" in relief. The lantern features a fixed upright handle and metal construction, with markings indicating a May 5, 1908 patent date and 1923 patents pending.
The original globe and period details capture the character of early 20th-century railway equipment.
Dimensions:
15"H x 7"W x 7"D
Weight: 2 lb. 9 oz.
Manufacturer: Adams & Westlake Co., USA
Markings:
• Top Cap reads "The Adams & Westlake Co., New York - Chicago - Phila., Southern RY, Adlake Reliable"
• Metal Hood reads "Patd 5.5.1908 - 1.20.1909 - 9.21.1909 - 11.28.1911 - 7.2.1912 - 4.1.1913 - 5.9.1923 - 9.21.1923 Pats Pending"
Globe: Original Southern Railroad globe
Overall Measurements: 15(L) x 7(W) x 20(H) Condition:
Excellent, antique condition. Glossy red glass globe with very small, expected, surface scuffs at the rim (hidden under metal hood or bonnet).
•Sturdy Bail Handle: The wire or metal carrying handle attached to the sides of the lantern frame, often featuring a Bail Ear mounting bracket.
• Intact, original Top Cap / Chimney Assembly: The metal hood or bonnet at the very top that lets heat and exhaust escape, strong, legible, raised lettering; stamped with the Adlake, railroad line, manufacturer, and patent dates.
• Sturdy, intact Frame / Guard Wires: Outer steel or tinned-iron protective framework..
• Excellent, original globe: Glossy, red glass with “Southern Ry” in relief. Very minor surface scuffs.
• Intact, working globe retainer / guard spring.
• Intact Oil Fount (Fuel Canister) with minor, expected surface rust.
• Intact Burner: The mechanism sitting atop the fount that controls the flame.
• Wick raiser may need oiling - the wick raiser shaft feels stiff/stuck.
Weight: 2 lb. 9 oz.
Manufacturer: Adams & Westlake Co., USA
Markings:
• Top Cap reads "The Adams & Westlake Co., New York - Chicago - Phila., Southern RY, Adlake Reliable"
• Metal Hood reads "Patd 5.5.1908 - 1.20.1909 - 9.21.1909 - 11.28.1911 - 7.2.1912 - 4.1.1913 - 5.9.1923 - 9.21.1923 Pats Pending"
Globe: Original Southern Railroad globe
Overall Measurements: 15(L) x 7(W) x 20(H) Condition:
Excellent, antique condition. Glossy red glass globe with very small, expected, surface scuffs at the rim (hidden under metal hood or bonnet).
•Sturdy Bail Handle: The wire or metal carrying handle attached to the sides of the lantern frame, often featuring a Bail Ear mounting bracket.
• Intact, original Top Cap / Chimney Assembly: The metal hood or bonnet at the very top that lets heat and exhaust escape, strong, legible, raised lettering; stamped with the Adlake, railroad line, manufacturer, and patent dates.
• Sturdy, intact Frame / Guard Wires: Outer steel or tinned-iron protective framework..
• Excellent, original globe: Glossy, red glass with “Southern Ry” in relief. Very minor surface scuffs.
• Intact, working globe retainer / guard spring.
• Intact Oil Fount (Fuel Canister) with minor, expected surface rust.
• Intact Burner: The mechanism sitting atop the fount that controls the flame.
• Wick raiser may need oiling - the wick raiser shaft feels stiff/stuck.