Army Road Signal Oil Lantern
An authentic circa 1940 Army Road Signal Oil Lantern. These lanterns played a crucial role on European roads during World War II, guiding tactical convoys, marking hazardous bridges, and securing checkpoints under strict blackout regulations.
Key Specifications & Design
Original box-style road signal lanterns feature a distinct rectangular construction engineered for maximum battlefield durability:
- Heavy-gauge steel housing: Finished in a matte olive drab military paint to withstand harsh weather conditions and frontline use.
- Sliding light filters: A front-facing window equipped with interchangeable colored glass panes (usually bright red or orange) to switch between active signaling and stop indicators.
- Ventilated hood: A curved, corrugated top that safely vents heat and smoke from the internal flame without leaking light upward (to avoid detection by enemy aircraft).
- Rear door and handles: Functional, folding heavy-duty carrying handles and a rear panel providing access to the internal reservoir.
- Internal oil burner: A completely modular, removable fuel reservoir with its own thumbwheel to adjust the wick.
