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- Patent Model of Railroad Signal Lantern, 1867 - Flags and lanterns were the primary means of communication between conductors, brakemen, and engineers on American railroads. Different movements and colors indicated different instructions as crews assembled and operated trains. Lanterns with red globes typically were used to signal a train to stop at places like "flag" stations -- where trains did not regularly halt -- and crossings with other railroad lines.
- April 16, 1867
- Collections - Artifact
Patent Model of Railroad Signal Lantern, 1867
Flags and lanterns were the primary means of communication between conductors, brakemen, and engineers on American railroads. Different movements and colors indicated different instructions as crews assembled and operated trains. Lanterns with red globes typically were used to signal a train to stop at places like "flag" stations -- where trains did not regularly halt -- and crossings with other railroad lines.