The kerosene era lasted for forty years beginning in 1860. Kerosene lamps continued to be used in rural areas well into the 1900s. There is a great variety of kerosene lighting devices. The inventor of the original burner is unknown. The basic burner is composed of a flat wick, spur turn-up, dome-shaped deflector and chimney. The lamps have decorative fonts of glass, pottery or metal and many were made with beautiful shades. They can be found in all sizes and shapes from miniature lamps to large hanging chandeliers.
