#history
Petromax Lamp.
The Petromax lamp was created in 1910 in Germany by Max Graetz (1851–1937).
He derived the name from “Petroleum” and “Max Graetz”.
Graetz was president of the firm Ehrich & Graetz in Berlin, which developed the lamp, and was also the primary designer.
The design was such a success that it is still being used to this day.
The lamp is known by different names – mostly company brands- in different countries.
Malaysia – Gasoline lamp.
Indonesia – Strong teng.
Nigeria – Telly.
Kenya – Optimus.
South Africa – Alupa tenrie.
Pakistan – Anchor.
Myanmar – Out Lin dat mie.
The name Petromax has become synonymous with paraffin pressure lamps in many other countries.
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It was a common scene till 50 years ago, especially in the villages without electricity, to have petromax lamps for light during all public events, festivals, wedding etc held at night. Priming up the lamp by pumping and fixing the brittle mantle which by glowing produce the white light was a skill acquired by experience. As a child it was fascinating to see the mantle slowly starting to glow and produce the great white light as the pumping progresses.
– Joy Kallivayalil.
