Dietz Dainty Tail Lamp, circa 1908
Add to SetSummary
Taillights were not a standard fixture on early automobiles. Only when cars and roads improved -- and drivers braved the darkness -- did this safety feature become a necessity. Early taillights resembled carriage lamps found on horse-drawn vehicles. This kerosene-fueled tail lamp -- cars usually had only one -- used a red lens to warn approaching vehicles. A clear lens illuminated the license plate or back step.
Taillights were not a standard fixture on early automobiles. Only when cars and roads improved -- and drivers braved the darkness -- did this safety feature become a necessity. Early taillights resembled carriage lamps found on horse-drawn vehicles. This kerosene-fueled tail lamp -- cars usually had only one -- used a red lens to warn approaching vehicles. A clear lens illuminated the license plate or back step.
Artifact
Taillight
Date Made
circa 1908
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
63.122.80
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Samuel L. Scher, M.D.
Material
nickel-plated
Glass (Material)
Dimensions
Height: 10.5 in
Width: 6 in
Length: 5 in
Inscriptions
On top: DIETZ DAINTY TAIL LAMP/ N/Y/ U.S.A./ PAT'D NOV-2-03 OCT-09-06 MAY-19-08 On back: DIETZ
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