This Video Of Gas Lantern Will Remind You Of Days When Life Was Simpler

Innovation has made life easier for all individuals around the world. One such discovery was light, which changed our lives for the better. From lighting a fire with wood and heavy lanterns to the LEDs we use today, the source of light has gone through a major evolution. A video of how an old gas mantle lantern works is doing rounds on the internet, leaving users wondering how far we have come. While some are reminiscing about nostalgic technology, others are simply in awe.

Gas mantle lanterns emit light with the use of fuels such as propane, white gas, or kerosene to generate heat. In the video shared on X, the user has filmed the entire process of how the lantern works. It begins with the mesh, which is typically made with silk cloth treated with oxides like thorium, cerium, or magnesium. The mesh is attached on top, and the fix uses one of the parts of the lantern. Then, a knob is removed from the bottom attached to the cylindrical mesh case, which is then filled with fuel. The knob is then closed, and the life with the handle is inserted on top. The user takes a matchstick and lights the bottom area. The mesh gradually burns, producing a static light source.

The video has received over 10 million views so far and scores of reactions from netizens.

A user said, “My Dad had one of these lanterns when I was a kid and would use it when we’d camp in the mountains. It was brighter and lasted longer than any battery operated one I’ve used since,” while another commented, “I still use this style of mantels every day in my LP gas lights that light up my cabin. Pit out a tremendous amount of light.”

Some were taken back to their childhood days and said, “It reminds me of many blackout nights and homework under this light. Simpler times,” “Childhood memories…I get a flashback after seeing this.”

A user who did not understand the process completely asked, “So is it the knitted table coaster or the flat sprite that makes the thing glow like a light bulb.”

Others were simply admiring the innovation over the ages, “Insane to see how far innovation has taken us ever since,” “Ah, the incandescent gas mantle – a truly fascinating invention that revolutionised lighting in the 19th century!”