Gas Lamplighter Pole

Date1800s

DimensionsOverall: 96.5 x 2.5 cm

Credit LineTransfer from the London and Middlesex Historical Society, 1958

Object number1958.001.322

Label TextThe first street lamps in London were lit by gas generated by burning coal. The London Gas Company was incorporated in 1853 and received a charter from the town council to expand street lights throughout the community. 252 downtown streets were the first to be lit, but gradually the service spread to new neighbourhoods. This lamplighter pole was used for turning on gas fixtures and lighting the gas jet.

NamePole, Lamplighter