Name/Title
Ronson Queen Anne LighterEntry/Object ID
2022.2.85.85Description
In the 1940s and 1950s, smoking was very common. Around 40-50% of people over 18 in the US were smokers, according to Kai-Wen Cheng and Don S. Kenkel. Louis Bromfield and his friends and family certainly exemplified that. The Big House contains a variety of smoking paraphernalia to this day, including ash trays and lighters.
This silverplated table lighter was produced by Ronson Art Metal. It is a Queen Anne design with a simple beaded border at the top and bottom as well as vertical lines around the center.
Ronson began as The Art Metal Works in 1897 and produced the first fully automatic lighter in 1926. Louis V. Aronson renamed the company Ronson in 1909. Their first patent for a pocket lighter was issued in 1910.
The popularity of table lighters increased during the mid-twentieth century with the peak of smoking. Table lighters became part of the decor and elaborate options signaled wealth. They also provided convenience.Location
Room
Dining RoomBuilding
The Big HouseOhio State Park
Malabar Farm State Park
