The Hurricane Lamp is one of the most important developments in Oil Lamp History. In this post, I discuss the history of Hurricane Lamps and key facts that you want or need to know.
Hurricane lamps are a type of lamp that was popular during the Victorian era. These lamps were used to light homes and businesses during power outages or other emergencies.
Hurricane lamps are still used today, but they are mostly seen as decorative items rather than practical ones.
Table of Contents
- What Is The History Of Hurricane Lamps? | What Were Hurricane Lamps Used For?
- Why Are Hurricane Lamps Called Hurricane Lamps?
- What Are Hurricane Oil Lamps And How Do They Work?
- The Benefits Of Using Hurricane Oil Lamps During A Power Outage
- How To Choose The Right Hurricane Oil Lamp For Your Needs
- Are Hurricane Lanterns Safe? | Can You Use Hurricane Lamps Indoors?
- Some Tips On Using Your Hurricane Oil Lamp Safely
- Where Do You Put A Hurricane Lamp?
- What Can You Burn In A Hurricane Lamp?
- How Do You Light A Hurricane Lamp?
- How Long Does A Hurricane Lantern Last?
- Who Makes The Best Hurricane Lamp?
- Where To Buy Hurricane Oil Lamps Online Or In Stores
- How Do You Style a Hurricane Lantern?

What Is The History Of Hurricane Lamps? | What Were Hurricane Lamps Used For?
The history of hurricane lamps is a long and fascinating one. These unique lamps have been used for centuries, and their popularity is only increasing.
Hurricane lamps were first used in the 18th century. They gained popularity because they were very effective at providing light in hurricane-prone areas. The lamps were designed to be placed on top of poles, and they were lit using oil or kerosene.
Hurricane lamps became even more popular in the 19th century. This was due to the fact that they were much more portable than other types of lamps. They could be easily carried from one location to another, making them ideal for use in emergency situations.
Hurricane lamps continued to be used throughout the 20th century. However, their popularity began to decline in the 1950s. This was due to the fact that more affordable and convenient electric lights were becoming available.
Despite this, hurricane lamps are still used by some people today. They are especially popular in rural areas where power outages are common. Many people also enjoy using hurricane lamps for decoration, as they can add a touch of elegance to any room.
Who Invented The Hurricane Lamp?
It was invented in 1780 by Francois-Pierre Aime Argand, the son of a Swiss watchmaker.
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Why Are Hurricane Lamps Called Hurricane Lamps?
The name “hurricane” comes from the fact that these lamps were often used during hurricanes and other severe weather conditions when power was lost.
What Are Hurricane Oil Lamps And How Do They Work?
Hurricane oil lamps are lanterns that use a wick in order to produce light.
The way that hurricane oil lamps work is actually very simple. The wick is lit, and the heat from the flame starts to vaporize the oil that is in the reservoir. As the oil vaporizes, it rises up through the chimney and is drawn back down by the draft created by the flame. This continuous cycle of vaporization and draft creates a steady light that can last for hours.
Why Do Hurricane Lamps Look Like That?
The design of hurricane lamps is actually based on a very old type of lamp known as an “ Argand lamp.” The Argand lamp was invented in the late 18th century and was the first type of lamp to use a wick and a chimney in order to produce light. The design of the hurricane lamp is very similar to the Argand lamp, but it has been modified slightly in order to make it more resistant to wind and other weather conditions.
Why Do They Call It Hurricane Glass?
The first hurricane lamps were made from glass blown into a mold to create a round, lantern-like shape. The glass was then fitted with a metal handle and wick, and the lamp was filled with oil.
The Benefits Of Using Hurricane Oil Lamps During A Power Outage
There are many benefits of using hurricane oil lamps in times of emergency. They provide light, and heat and can even be used to cook food.
How To Choose The Right Hurricane Oil Lamp For Your Needs
When choosing a hurricane oil lamp, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure you get the right one for your needs. The first thing to think about is what size of lamp you need. Hurricane lamps come in a variety of sizes, from small table top lamps to large floor lamps. The size you choose will depend on where you plan to use the lamp and how much light you need.
Another important factor to consider is the type of fuel you want to use. Hurricane lamps can be filled with either oil or kerosene. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right fuel for your needs. Oil lamps produce a brighter light, but kerosene lamps are more economical to operate.
Finally, you’ll need to decide on a style of hurricane lamp. There are many different designs available, from traditional to modern. Choose a style that fits your home decor and personal taste. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect hurricane oil lamp for your needs!
Are Hurricane Lanterns Safe? | Can You Use Hurricane Lamps Indoors?
Yes, you can use hurricane lamps indoors. Just make sure to keep them away from any open flames or heat sources.
I have written a detailed blog on the safety and health risks of using Oil Lamps indoors here
Some Tips On Using Your Hurricane Oil Lamp Safely
When it comes to using hurricane lamps, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to ensure your safety.
4 tips to use your Hurricane Lamp Safely:
- Never fill the lamp more than three-quarters full. This will help prevent the oil from spilling out and causing a fire.
- Be sure to extinguish the lamp before going to bed or leaving the house.
- Keep the lamp out of reach of children and pets.
- Never use water to extinguish a hurricane lamp. Use a fire extinguisher instead.
Hurricane lamps have been around for centuries, and they are still popular today. They are a great way to add light to your home without having to worry about electricity. Just be sure to use them safely!
Where Do You Put A Hurricane Lamp?
You can put a hurricane lamp on any flat surface, such as a table or shelf. If you’re using it outdoors, make sure to put it on a level surface so that it doesn’t tip over in the wind.
Most Hurricane Lamps feature a handle, as they were originally designed to be used handheld outdoors, so they can be easily hung safely out of the way.
What Can You Burn In A Hurricane Lamp?
The best thing to burn in a hurricane lamp is oil. You can use either lamp oil or kerosene, but kerosene is more common. Never use gasoline, as it is highly flammable and can be dangerous.
If you’re using a kerosene lantern, be sure to fill it with clean-burning kerosene. Dirty kerosene can produce harmful fumes, so it’s important to use clean fuel.
I provide an overview of the different types of lamp oils in this blog
How Do You Light A Hurricane Lamp?
To light a hurricane lamp, you will need to fill the lamp with fuel, such as kerosene or oil. Once the lamp is full, light the wick and adjust the flame to your desired height.
I provide a more detailed guide on how to light oil lamps in this blog
How Long Does A Hurricane Lantern Last?
A typical hurricane lantern will last for about four hours. This is assuming that the wick is kept trimmed and that the lantern is not left in a draft.
Who Makes The Best Hurricane Lamp?
It’s difficult to say who manufactures the best hurricane lamps available today. There are many companies that make high-quality hurricane lamps, and it really depends on your personal preferences as to which one is the best. However, there are a few things you should look for when choosing a hurricane lamp. First, make sure the lamp is made of durable materials. Hurricane lamps are typically made of metal or glass, and you want to make sure the lamp you choose can withstand strong winds and heavy rains.
Second, make sure the hurricane lamp you choose has a high-quality wick. The wick is what provides the flame that lights the hurricane lamp, and you want to make sure it is made of a material that will not easily be blown out by the wind. Hurricane lamps with weak wicks can be dangerous, as they can easily start a fire if they are blown over.
Third, make sure the hurricane lamp you choose has a good quality glass chimney. The chimney helps to protect the flame from the wind, and you want to make sure it is made of a material that will not easily shatter. Hurricane lamps with weak chimneys can also be dangerous, as they can easily start a fire if they are blown over.
Fourth, make sure the hurricane lamp you choose has a good quality base. The base helps to keep the hurricane lamp steady, and you want to make sure it is made of a material that will not easily tip over. Hurricane lamps with weak bases can also be dangerous, as they can easily start a fire if they are blown over.
Finally, make sure the hurricane lamp you choose has a good quality cover. The cover helps to protect the flame from the wind and the rain, and you want to make sure it is made of a material that will not easily be blown away by the wind. Hurricane lamps with weak covers can also be dangerous, as they can easily start a fire if they are blown over.
When choosing a hurricane lamp, it is important to keep these five things in mind. By doing so, you can ensure that you choose a high-quality hurricane lamp that will provide you with years of use.
Where To Buy Hurricane Oil Lamps Online Or In Stores
Today, hurricane lamps are still popular among those who want to add a touch of nostalgia to their homes. You can buy hurricane oil lamps online or in many stores that sell home decor and online retailers like Amazon.
I bought my oil lamps used from eBay and found there was plenty of choice and styles. Of course, buying them used means that I have to service them before first use.
How Do You Style a Hurricane Lantern?
There are a few different ways to style a hurricane lantern. One way is to use it as a centerpiece on a table or shelf. Another way is to hang it from the ceiling or a tree branch. You can also place it on the ground near a fire pit or other source of light.
How Do You Decorate A Hurricane Lamp For Christmas?
One popular way to decorate a hurricane lamp for Christmas is to hang a wreath on the handle. You can also add a bow or other festive decorations to the lamp. If you have a battery-operated hurricane lamp, you can add LED lights to it for an even more festive look.
Another popular way to decorate hurricane lamps for Christmas is to wrap them in festive ribbon or garland. You can also add a Christmas-themed decoration to the base of the lamp.
If you want to get really creative, you can even paint your hurricane lamp with holiday-themed designs. You can find stencils online or at your local craft store.
Acknowledgments
http://blog.italian-pewter.co.uk/hurricane-lamps/
https://midtownmmblog.com/2017/02/22/hurricane-lamps-a-little-history/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerosene_lamp
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ami_Argand
https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/what-are-hurricane-lamps.htm
https://forums.ybw.com/index.php?threads/hurricane-lamp.223618/
https://forums.ybw.com/index.php?threads/safe-oil-lamps.105384/
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