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Tin Betty Lamp - 18th Century Primitive Oil Lamp
The Tin "Betty" Lamp was a primary light source for many households in colonial America and afterward - especially with those of lesser means or living on America's frontier. The lamp's name is most likely derivative of the German word "besser" - meaning that the lamp was considered better (or improved) over earlier open lamp designs. Made of tin, the lamp was designed to burn common animal fats or fish oil, byproducts that would have been readily available in even the most modest home of the period. The oil or fat is placed in the lamp's reservoir. The wick extends from this reservoir through a small tube at the front of the lamp. The lamp possesses several features that make it versatile to use at home or around camp. It has a handle on the top for easy carrying, and there is a hook for hanging the lamp as well as a spike (or pin) that can be inserted into a hole, crack, or between boards to support the lamp.
Our Tin Betty Lamps are faithful and functional reproductions of this common 18th century lighting device. Like the originals, our reproductions are constructed of tinned sheet iron, and like the originals they are prone to rusting. We have a limited supply of new lamps that have begun to exhibit some patina from storage and are being offered here at a significant discount to those willing to do a little clean up or who do not mind the period used look.
Orders for multiple items will be combined after checkout in order to reduce shipping costs and the overage refunded.
