Kerosene Lamps are Useful Pieces which are still very much in use Today, just as they were more than a 100 years ago

Kerosene lamps first came in to use during the 1800's. Their popularity soared after the first oil well was drilled in Pennsylvania in 1859. During these initial years these lamps used round wicks and were based on a very simple Argand principle of supplying air to the flame through a central draft tube. These round wicks provided greater surface area for burning, but consumed more oil than a normal flat wick. Over the years a lot of research was done to make improvements on this lamp. By 1890 an Austrian chemist, Welsbach invented the incandescent mantle. Finally this incandescent mantle was coupled with the Argand burner to produce a bright white light. This basic structure of Kerosene lamps has remained virtually unchanged since then.

Kerosene lamps today are not used as often, but the charm surrounding them enraptures us even today. These lamps can be used not just for lighting purposes but also as beautiful decorative pieces. The beautiful warm glow from this lamp lends an elegant and soothing air to any room. It adds a quaint rustic charm to the surrounding. Having one in your house, whether it is your living room, the back porch, the garden or the driveway creates quite an impression. Once you have lit one of these lamps, you will experience their captivating quality.

Some of these lamps have been passed down the generations and are very valuable collectibles today. Many are still crafted in the old fashioned manner, how ever most are now made in bulk by manufacturers. They are easily available in departmental stores, hardware stores and if you are interested in original vintage pieces, then you can look for them in specialty stores and antique stores.

Whatever your budget maybe, these lamps are a wonderful buy. They are enchanting and pleasing to the eyes. They create an ambience of warmth, romance and add a classic old world charm.