Here’s a Light Bulb Older Than Your Great Grandmother!

Have you ever asked yourself the question of how long a light bulb can last? Most people will say one, maybe two years. Light bulbs have become a frequent disposal of our life, being partially blamed for global warming, along with other potential environmental catastrophes. They’ve saved countless injuries from people falling down stairs, tripping over rocks, and falling over toys. The light bulb I’m going to talk to you guys about today represents the complete opposite of that, in fact, it may cause you to take a second look at life, and realize what you may take for granted

The longest burning lightbulb

Livermore’s Centennial light has no reason to be shining. It’s just there for people to watch in amazement, for people to admire, and for people to consider how much we take for granted. But most of all, it’s a fantastic and important component to our history.

You see, the Centennial light bulb has been shining for 108 years… Yes, you heard right. It’s the longest shining light bulb recorded in history. It was first installed in 1901, moving to various fire departments, and even lasting through renovations. Here’s a little history about it:

First installed at the fire department hose cart house on L Street in 1901. Shortly after it moved to the main firehouse on Second. In 1903 it was moved to the new Station 1 on First and McLeod, and survived the renovation of the Firehouse in 1937, when it was off for about a week. During its first 75 years it was connected directly to the 110 Volt power line, and not to the back-up generator for fear of a power surge. In 1976 it was moved with a full police and fire truck escort, under the watch of Captain Kirby Slate, to its present site in 1976 at Fire Station 6, 4550 East Ave., Livermore, California. It was then hooked to a separate power source at 120V according to Frank Maul, Retired City Electrician, with no interruptions since.

This 4 watt light bulb was made by the Shelby Electric Company (back when they were still around). It was hand blown, with a fairly thick carbon filament installed inside of it. Its primary use was during the late hours of the night, acting sort of like a “night light” watching over the fire trucks in Firestation 6, located deep in the state of California.

There is a close competitor to this light bulb. Taking the number two spot as the second longest lasting light bulb is a bulb that has been lighting up the Byers Opera House in Fort Worth, Texas for countless years. It’s now moved to the Stockyards museum and has lasted about 101 years.

This all leaves one gigantic question. Where’s the proof? The light bulb has been mentioned in newspapers and magazines throughout the world, however, there is no need to contact any editor or owners of news companies as you can see it for yourself. By visiting the Centennial light bulb website you’ll be shown a variety of facts, articles, and a live webcam feed of the historic monument.

What do you think?