Oil Railroad Lanterns....How to Tell the Difference.

[Greg@mnrr]

I have an old oil burning lantern hanging in my garage that I had I purchased at an antique store where the seller claimed it was a railroad lantern. The lantern has a tall, red chimney and a base similar to most oil lamps. The lantern is of study construction and seems like it would handle rough working situations. The red chimney was the the most convincing detail of the lantern to make a it a "railroad lantern".

I believe I paid only $25 in 1982 for the item.

At model railroad shows I see many oil lanterns described as railroad lanterns offered for purchase. Before purchasing a lantern, how does one be sure its an original railroad lantern?

Thanks.

Greg

 

[Railrunner130]

I'm certainly no expert, but I'd ensure there is a railroad name stamped in the metal. I wouldn't think it would be financially viable for someone to forge that. I think sometimes it's molded into the glass. Adlake was a manufacturer of railroad lanterns. You may see their name either in place of or in addition to the railroad name. In the end though, if it looks good to you, keep it.