Colonial Lanterns: When is a Lanthorn a Lantern?
His original version of colonial lanterns has been replicated for several hundred years and remains a favorite lantern design by many American manufacturers.
By trade, Paul Revere was a second-generation silversmith and artisan, excelling at his trade by fabricating beautifully crafted tea sets and spoons. Not only was he celebrated in 1775 as the man who rode into the Lexington night to take heed of the approaching Redcoats -he later expanded his American company to include a foundry so that he could further manufacture exquisite silver and pewter hardware for his discerning clientele.
Although Paul Revere’s original colonial lantern was made from iron, instead of brass, it was prone to rusting and disintegrating in the wet weather of Boston and probably wouldn’t have survived many harsh winters for very long. Colonial lanterns were crudely fashioned and embellished by hand.
Today, we continue that historical influence by fabricating, here in the USA, these simple lanterns that have a beauty and simplicity all their own. Our patterns and colonial lanterns have been in the family for 105 years – softly and historically illuminating entryways.
Custom Outdoor Exterior Lighting Lanterns
Custom Outdoor Exterior Lighting Lantern with a remote switch.
Custom outdoor exterior lighting lanterns can be made with gas ignition. With a flick of a switch or manually, one can control the gas and the height of the flame. Outdoor exterior lighting fixtures, as in terms, hanging pendants, pier column mounts, and flush wall mounts, can all be gas lit. The earliest custom outdoor exterior lighting lanterns made in America were lit by a single candle. Later, when made available, lit by a single to triple flame powered by gas.
The earliest custom outdoor exterior lighting lanterns were made of iron, not brass. These lanterns were prone to rusting if exposed to wet weather, especially coastal marine weather. Early custom outdoor exterior lighting lanterns used for outdoor exterior use were made by hand. The metal was formed with whatever tools re available to create a shape that was appealing to the tastes of early America.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the difference between a colonial lantern and a custom outdoor lantern?
A: Colonial lanterns are inspired by historic American designs, while custom outdoor lanterns combine that heritage with modern customization and technology.
Q2: Can custom lanterns be gas or electric?
A: Yes, they can operate on either gas ignition or electric power, offering both authenticity and convenience.
Q3: What materials are most durable for outdoor lanterns?
A: Brass, copper, and stainless steel provide superior resistance to corrosion and aging.
In Summary
From Paul Revere’s iconic colonial lanterns to today’s custom outdoor lighting innovations, the journey of craftsmanship, artistry, and tradition continues to illuminate homes with elegance. Each lantern tells a story—rooted in history, refined through time, and built to last for generations.