Accession Number

ID226

Alternate Name

socket

Description

A brass Bergmann & Co. brand electric light bulb socket, the cylindrical brass exterior with Bakelite insert and brass sleeve inside, the sleeve threaded to receive a light bulb base. The switch on the side has been cast in the shape of a fan. Stamped into side of the exterior sleeve of the holder are the patent dates from Dec. 27, 1881 and each following year to 1885, and then Feb. 11, 1888. Also stamped on the sleeve vertically along the sleeve is the maker's mark, "Bergmann & Co. N.Y."

Narrative

The history of this object's use by the Dunsmuir family at Craigdarroch makes it an important artifact.  It contributes to the understanding of the technology and decorative elements found in the Castle when it functioned as a house. 

An informative description of the Bergmann & Co. electric lamp socket can be found here: 
https://www.urbanremainschicago.com/news-and-events/2014/12/04/a-closer-look-at-a-rare-bergmann-edison-19th-century-incandescent-electric-lamp-moving-tongue-socket/ (last accessed April 9, 2020)

Bergmann & Co. of New York was one of the preeminent manufactures of lighting apparatuses in the United States during the late 19th Century. Their 1883 catalogue can be viewed here: http://edison.rutgers.edu/digital/document/CA002C (last accessed April 9, 2020)

Their 1890 catalogue is attached to the associated record for this company.

History of Use

This light bulb holder was found in Craigdarroch's attic by one or more of the young men that The Castle Society employed as guides in the early 1970's. 

Date

1881 – 1888

Material

Metal, brass; Plastic, bakelite; Ceramic

Technique

Bent; Cast; Machined; Fired

Inscription

MANUFACTURED BY BERGMANN & CO. N.Y.
(and various patent dates in the 1880's)

Country of Origin

United States of America