When did the electric torch come info use?
The first ELECTRIC TORCH was a square 2-candlepower bull’s-eye lantern, manufactured by the Bristol Electric Lamp Co. in 1891. It weighed 2 lb with battery. The first large order was from the Bristol General Omnibus Co., which purchased 60 for the use of the ticket inspectors early in 1892.
The first TUBULAR TORCH was manufactured in 1898 by the American Electric & Novelty Manufacturing Co. of New York (later the American Ever-ready Co.). The first model put on sale had a cardboard tube with metal fittings, a brass reflector and no lens.
In Britain the ‘Ever Ready’ Electric Torch No. 1 was advertised for sale by the British Mutoscope & Biograph CO. of Great Windmill Street, London, at 18 s in August 1900. Batteries, said to give 5,000 flashes, cost 1 s 6 d. The advertisers assured prospective purchasers that it could be light in a keg of gunpowder without any danger.
