The History of Carbide Lamps

Carbide is a naturally occurring substance that comes in crystal form. It reacts with water to create a gas, which ignites when coming into contact with oxygen. The light it creates is cleaner than candlelight, though not as luminous as battery-operated electric lights. Because it creates an open flame like the candle, it can only be used in nonflammable surroundings.

Carbide

In 1892, James T. Morehead and Thomas L. Wilson discovered carbide, a brownish gray substance.

Acetylene

When carbide was mixed with water, it exploded into flame. Further analysis showed that carbide and water produced a gas called acetylene, which is very flammable.

Lamps

In a few years, carbide was used as a light source in many places, although it did not replace candles completely.

Mining

H. Hooke, a mine inspector in New South Wales, invented the mine lamp in 1897.

Antiques

The first carbide cap lamps weighed about 4 ounces; they were 4 inches high and 1.5 inches in diameter, with two compartments: the upper held water, while the lower held carbide. It was controlled by a drip valve, and it also had a 3-inch reflector that directed the light.

Improvements

Modern carbide lamps have many more parts.

Resources

• National Museum of American History
• Miners' Museum at Cape Breton
• Western Museum of Mining and Industry