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125 Years Strong: The Light That Never Quits
12 Feb
Summary
- A California fire station light has burned for over a century.
- The bulb has been recognized by Guinness World Records.
- Its longevity is attributed to its thick, carbonized filament.
Inside a California fire station, a lightbulb has been burning for more than a century and is set to reach its 125th anniversary this summer. The Centennial Light, located at Fire Station No. 6 in Livermore, has been glowing almost continuously since 1901. It holds the Guinness World Records title for the longest-burning lightbulb.
This unique fixture, currently emitting only four watts, has seen minimal interruptions, primarily during firehouse relocations. Its most recent brief outage in 2013 was due to a generator battery issue, not the bulb itself. Visitors from around the globe have been drawn to this incandescent wonder.
The bulb's remarkable longevity is attributed to its 1897 manufacturing by the Shelby Electric Company. Engineered with an unusually thick filament made from carbonized cellulose, it was designed for endurance. While modern bulbs prioritize short-term use, the Centennial Light's construction ensures exceptional durability, outlasting competitors in early tests.
Originally donated by a local utility owner, the bulb was installed in 1901 and has moved with the fire department through station changes. Its fame grew significantly after a 1971 local news investigation, leading to its official recognition by Guinness World Records.
