US Lighthouse Establishment Keepers Service Box

This basket is from the Belle Isle MI Lighthouse. United States Lighthouse Establishment, Brass Light-House Keeper's Service Basket with Accessories c.1870-1880. This extremely rare brass basket was used by Keepers of the Light-House Establishment to carry wick trimming and cleaning tools to the lantern with which to trim and maintain the lamps. The basket is entirely of brass, and in clean and original condition with few if any marks, one of the nicest that I have yet found. Basket measures 12 " from end to end and approx. 9" across, 7 " high to top of handle. The basket has two hinged lids, meeting in the center near the handle. Inside the basket are the original compartments for tools and cleaning tools including one with hinged cover. This extremely rare service basket bears original stamping " U. S. LIGHTHOUSE ESTABLISHMENT" on one lid, oval stamp " U. S. LIGHTHOUSE DEPOT, 3 DIST., LAMP SHOP, STATEN ISLAND , NY " on the second lid. On one side there are still firmly attached two brass loops for holding the keeper's cleaning cloths. On most of the few boxes that remain, these loops have long ago broken off as they were quite delicate. However, this one is complete with few if any defects. On the underside of the box four original 1 " diameter applied feet. The items included are the Wick trimming scissors, the 3 compartment Rouge tray, several wicks, matches, machine oil can for oiling the clockwork, replacement mantle for alladin model 12, needle nose pliers, cleaning cloths. Incredible collection and very rare.

$7,495

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