My two day stay aboard Lightship gave me the opportunity
to record a number of ‘historical artefacts’, although dating them is not easy.
The ship was built in 1878, but was extensively refurbished when Belfast
Harbour bought her from the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1943.
There were three brass double wall lights with bayonet
holding bulbs and a pull-string on/off switch. The former was not invented
until late in the 19th century and I doubt whether the latter
appeared before WWI, so I assume they were part of the refurbishment. (Photo)
The second gem was also in brass and at first I thought
it was a standard lamp, but I could see no electrical fittings and my guess now
is that it was a hat/coat stand. Unfortunately it is not complete - one of the
fish shaped feet; one of the elaborate
top hooks; and the central pole are all missing. (Photo)
The real prize is the riding light (if that is the
correct term) which is nearly three foot in diameter, with a 1ft channel in the centre. (Photos)
It splits in half to allow it to be wrapped around the
mizzen mast and hoisted aloft by means of the four eyes on the top. This is an
electric device and one of the bayonet bulb fittings is visible in both photos.
Simon intends to restore this and have it suspended above
his dining table. Not for him an ordinary chandelier! However, the restoration
of the dining room comes first! (Photo)
David
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