H&F Railway Hand Lantern

Hand lanterns such as this device were used to provide signals to engineers and motormen on railways in low-light situation.  This particular lantern bears an embossed stamp on its lid and printed marking on the glass globe which both read “H & F Ry.”

In use the lantern would be held by a crew member and moved or swung in different directions or patterns to provide different instructions to drivers.  In addition the lantern could be placed on the top or front of railcars being pushed to indicate the approaching front of the train.

At this time this item may be the only surviving H&F lantern of this style.  It was purchased by the Society from the estate of area artist and rail enthusiast Sherry Kemp.