Chapter 28

Chapter 28
pages 153 - 154

LIGHTS.

     In early times tallow candles were used, more than all other things, to light our houses of nights; but, in process of time, stearine candles and lard oil, to a considerable extent, took their place. By-and-by spirit-gas, and then kerosene oil, became to be much in use; but they proved to be dangerous, as well as unfashionable, and coal-gas, has well-nigh superseded them all.
     In January, 1853, the legislature incorporated the 'Peo-ia Gas-Light and Coke Company'. Soon afterward a company was organized in pursuance to that charter. They commenced supplying the central parts of the city first, and, as they progressed in laying down the gas-pipes, they superseded all other kinds of light; but, as the city is spread over a large space of ground, and the population is too sparse in the suburbs for it to pay well to take gas to them, there are many yet in the city who are deprived of the benefits of this modern invention. It is now, however, so far extended that in all the thickly-settled parts of the city the people enjoy this comfort, not only in the streets, but also in their houses.
     It was originally supposed that the coal for the manufacture of this gas would have to be brought from Eastern Ohio or Western Pennsylvania, because the vein of coal generally used here for heating houses and propelling machinery contains too much sulphur to answer the purpose of making gas. It has, however, for several years been known that another vein of coal, lying higher and a little further off, answers well for gas-making. This costs a little more than the common kind, but it is much cheaper than that brought from abroad. After the gas is extracted from the coal, it is still valuable as coke, and for some purposes more valuable than the coal.
     This luxury, however, is exceedingly expensive. Like most modern improvements, it was recommended as a matter of economy; but, upon trial, I think it the most expensive plan of lighting a house or city that has ever been contrived. The company charges the city thirty-two dollars a year for every street lamp they keep lighted, and they have enough of them for their charge against the city alone to come to $12,000. It should be borne in mind that the lamps do not burn all night, except when it is entirely dark. They are not permitted to burn when the moon is up, although, by reason of clouds, it be dark.
     They charge individuals $3.50 per 1000 cubic feet. At this rate, to light a private residence costs from ten to fifteen dollars per month—say $150 a year; but this is small compared to the amount it costs to light machine-shops, stores, saloons, public halls, etc.

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