Up for sale is a remarkably complete, highly collectible piece of early 20th-century American industrial history: an antique Justrite No. 50 Separate-Generator Carbide Mine Lamp setup. Manufactured in Chicago, Illinois, this specific variant features the sought-after February 21, 1922 patent and the distinct "Polygon Feed" mechanism.
Unlike standard all-in-one hat lamps, this is a scarce separate-generator configuration. The heavy fuel-generating tank was designed to be clipped directly onto a miner's belt, while a lightweight, corded headpiece ran up to a bracket on their canvas or leather cap. These complete setups are incredibly difficult to find today, as the connecting hoses frequently rotted away or the individual components were separated over the last century.
Product Features & Markings:
The Generator Tank: Features prominent, crisp stamped markings on the lid reading "JUSTRITE TRADE MARK" and "PATENTED 2-21-22".
Polygon Feed Lever: Fitted with the classic, faceted multi-sided water control lever stamped "POLYGON FEED", which allowed miners to click the mechanism into precise notches to regulate the water drip rate.
Cap Lamp Headpiece: The nickel-plated brass headpiece retains its original spade hook/mounting bracket designed to slide seamlessly into standard period mining hats.
Complete Assembly: Features the matching rubber connection hose protected by its original metal tension/reinforcement springs at both connection points.