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You are bidding on a one-of-a-kind railroad lantern with a combination green and clear glass globe. The 4.75" high globe was cast in two parts, green on the top half and clear on the bottom half. The clear portion is etched with the name "R G Abbott" done in Old English-style lettering. T is a small chip in the bottom rim and a short crack in the glass (see photo). The lantern cage stands 9.75" high (with the handle down). The base unclips for access to the small kerosene font, which, itself, unscrews from the base. The bottom of the base is stamped "R E DIETZ COMPANY NEW YORK USA" and t is a number "3" stamped in the center. It looks as though this lantern may have originally had a brilliant plating of some sort, as this still shows on the bottom of the font (see photo), w it would have been protected from the elements and wear. T are no railroad names or markings anyw In addition to the crack in the globe, t is a small dent in the lantern top, and the inside of the chimney shows traces of soot, but otherwise the overall condition is very good, considering this lantern is likely about 100 years old.This type of lantern was often presented by a railroad company to trainmen upon their retirement from service. The employee's name would be etched on the globe, and usually his position or job title. Since it was common to also have the railroad name or initials on the lantern, this might not have been a presentation lantern. It is possible, however, that this lantern may have been purchased by R G Abbott for his (or her??) own use. At the turn of the last century, many railroads used a combination green and white signal by day and light by night as a flag stop signal. For example, Rule 28 from the NYO&W Rules Of The Operating Department, dated May 15, 1913, reads: "A combined green and white signal is to be used to stop a train only at the flag stations indicated on its schedule." R G Abbott may have used this lantern after dark to signal his (or her) desire to board a train from a nearby flag stop. If only this lantern could talk! The winning bidder will add US $12.00 to the item's cost for Priority Mail, packing, delivery confirmation to destinations within the USA. For destinations outside the USA, please email your location, and I will calculate postage. I accept PayPal, money orders and personal checks (item held until the latter clears the bank). Insurance is optional, but available at additional cost. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, return the item to me in the original packaging, and I will refund your money. Lanterns like this are hard to find, and the name etched on the globe makes it truly unique! Feel free to email any questions you may have so that you may bid with confidence. Good luck!

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