Bidspirit auction | Antique C.T. Ham Mfg Co

Antique C.T. Ham Mfg Co Lehigh Valley Railroad Signal Lantern with Embossed Red Globe - This antique railroad signal lantern is constructed with a cylindrical metal frame and a protective wire cage. The lantern features a glass globe of a deep ruby red color. The globe is decorated with the embossed letters L V R R. The top cap of the chimney is impressed with a circular mark reading C. T. HAM MFG CO and MADE UNDER PATENTS AUG 30 87. The top of the chimney is further stamped with the characters L. V. R. R. The base of the lantern contains several impressed patent dates, which are readable as MAY 28.95, NOV. 30. 97. and FEB 10. 1903. The lantern is equipped with a vertical wire bail handle attached to the chimney and includes a small brass-colored adjustment knob at the base. The construction reflects industrial design standards of the late 19th and early 20th centuries intended for the Lehigh Valley Railroad. A.I. Don't be so critical on condition this is antique. Diameter across chimney: 4 inches. The lantern exhibits a weathered, dark patina and surface oxidation throughout the metal frame, wire cage, and handle, consistent with its age and industrial use (Photo 1). The red glass globe remains intact with no visible cracks or chips (Photo 4). The embossed and stamped markings on the cap, chimney, and base are largely legible despite surface wear (Photos 6, 7, and 8). The mechanical adjustment knob is present (Photo 6).