Name/Title
Oil Lamp or Betty LampEntry/Object ID
MHP0037Description
The "Betty Lamp" was a common item in the homes and workshops of the American colonies. The most often cited source for the name is from German "besser" meaning better in English, and these lamps provided better light than previous lamps or an open candle. The first lamps of this style were made of iron or brass, but later lamps were made of tin because it was lighter and cheaper. Fuel for the lamp could be oil or animal fats. Over the years, different substances were used to reduce the smoke and aroma from the lamps. After 1760, whale oil came into greater use because it provided the most satisfactory light (equal to two candles). This lamp has a stand to put in on the table and cast better light . Other designs allowed betty lamps to be hung on the wall or place in a more advantageous place for the user. See the articles below for more details.Dimensions
Height
8-1/2 inDiameter
6 inCreate Date
February 14, 2021Update Date
February 14, 2021