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Oil lamps were the primary source of light at our country’s origin, though only attainable by the rich. In 1846, doctor & scientist Gesner began distilling coal to produce a clear fluid later called kerosene. This kerosene produced a much brighter flame with a limited smoke cloud. Kerosene lamps improved with time and became conveniently portable and affordable. Kerosene revolutionized indoor, artificial lighting after the Civil War. Productivity in factories improved as work could happen after dark. Possibilities for late-night entertainment increased in public spaces. Even after the advent of the electric light bulb in 1879, homes in America continued to use kerosene as their primary source of indoor light due to it’s low cost. Only half of US homes had electricity in the 1920’s. Even today, many homes keeps kerosene lamps available in the event of loss of electricity.