Betty lamp (or fat lamp)
England or United States
1850-1900
Measurements
5-1/2 in x 4-1/4 in x 2-3/4 in
Materials
Tinned sheet iron
Credit Line
Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of Mrs. Alfred C. Harrison
Accession Number
1969.262
Provenance
The name betty lamp derives from a corruption of the German word for better, indicating the lamp improved designs of fat lamps. Specifically, it had a wick holder that reduced drips of fish oil, grease, or fat.
The lamp, made of soldered sheet iron, has a pointed oval pan with a hinged lid in front. A tapered strap handle with a wire hanging wire arches forward from the back. Use of tinned iron and wire in place of cast and wrought iron, as well as little evidence of use suggest a late timeframe for this lighting device.
