Description

This is an exact reproduction of T.W. Houchin’s eight hour burning compact candle. Copied from an original in our collection (pictured) and done for one of our museum display contracts – now here it is for your use and enjoyment. Houchin first developed and sold the candle in the 1850s as a “night light” for homes and lanterns and also marketed it to travelers to take with them. Of course during the war they proved a popular seller for obvious reasons. Touted as “perfectly” safe and odorless the advantage to the user needing long lasting illumination is quickly seen. Just the ticket for clerks, HQ, picket or letter writing. In 1862, Houchin further patented his “Improved Wick Sustainer”, a little metal disk holder for the wick base which revolutionized the product commonly known today as a “votive” candle. (copy of Patent update is found in each box – Houchin was adamant abut protecting his intellectual property) He also developed candle and oil lamps which utilized his invention in various forms. Put up in “neat boxes” as advertised – each one contains four candles each with their individual wrapped label and with the makers name pressed into the top exactly like the original. The inside and outside labels of the box, as the with the candle wrapper are all faithful copies of original labels and advertisements. The original golden yellow color of the candle label is matched as well as the color of the candle itself. (Note on picture of original: The outside of the original candle is yellowed and dark with age, dust and grime, candle color based upon a small core sample cut from the base. Most of the label is heavily faded but a small area of underside was viewable to see original paper color) Each candle box is packed with our very thin period waxed brown utility paper to prevent jostling and damage in travel. Another SoFS exclusive done completely in house.