Since man came to earth, we have been trying to see at night. When we discovered fire, this was used to warm foods, and light the way, it wasn't until we could harness the light and that place it in various places in the cave. The candle made that possible and makes the list at number 94.
Candles date back over 5,000 years and they are one of the first forms of artificial light being used in homes and in travel. When we think about the Egyptian and Roman rule, we think about torches and oil lamps, which is true, however, candles were being developed at this time. Animal fat was used to creat the candles waxy, greasy outside while cotton, flex, and other fabrics were used for its wick. The candles were expensive, and they did not burn well by today's standard but their function was more important to produce light in a given area giving the end user light to see by.
In the Middle Ages candles became more suffocated and were used mainly in religious ceremonies. Remember, the Middle Ages is known as the dark ages because of a plague going on, which killed 1/3 of the population. Candles, by this point, were being made of other materials such as beeswax, and berries. The wicks were composed still of cotton and other fabrics placed in the middle of the waxy, greasy outer layer. Candles were still used by the wealthy and by those who could afford it. Hour candles were also becoming popular to keep time in the night hours as well. Oil lamps, and fire were still being used by most of the population for artificial light in their homes, and huts!
The American colonists found candles to be extremely important. Candlemakers in America used more natural wax such as those found in bay-berries. Not only did the berry have a wonderful smell, they also burned a bit longer. It wasn't until the 1700's that the candle became less expensive finally being mass produced, bringing more light into homes. Whale oil made it possible. Whale oil was cheap, and it was harder than previous candle casings and it held allowed the candle to keep its shape in the summer months.
During the industrial revolution, a candle making machine was developed that used a wax mix made of various waxes, and lipids, which reduced the awful smell of animal fat. The wax is more or less is still being used today. The wick also went under a major change that maximized the usage and illumination from the wick. The wicks has been made from fabrics or threads, which had been twisted together. It wasn't until the late 1700's and early 1800's that the wicks were being made of braided cotton. This technique allowed the wick to curl back under into the flame, allowing i the wick to be burned completely. This braided technique also allowed the wick to burn brighter giving more sustainable light.
Candles were displaced, however, havingcome full circle in the west. The candle holds more importance in religious ceremonies than they do as an artificial light source in homes. I am sure, dear reader, you have candles throughout your home but do you use them everday as artificial light? The death of the candle came with Edison and his electric light. The candle has left its mark. All illuminates are measured in candle strength! The next time you buy a flashlight read the package!
To watch videos on candle making click the links below:
Dublin Candlemaker Part One - http://youtu.be/98tTYmbvtcs
Dublin Candlemaker Part Two - http://youtu.be/08b3va22eak
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