early american industrial crouse-hinds "explosion proof" fixtures with riveted brass cages

we just recently acquired two matching c. 1915-18 original and intact american industrial crouse-hinds "explosion proof" incandescent light fixtures with unusual riveted joint yellow brass flat bar or strap cages.

both fixtures have been thoroughly cleaned and refinished to greatly enhance the visual contrast between the brass and iron. the "sun-purple" impact-resistant original glass globe provides additional color, resulting in a nice color scheme reflecting both the materials used and how they have aged over time.

the crouse-hinds electric company (later shortened to crouse-hinds company) was established in 1897 in syracuse, new york. founder huntington beard crouse partnered with jesse lorenzo hinds, who served as factory superintendent (and former mechanic) of the electric engineering and supply company of syracuse, ny.

crouse had the capital and hinds had the electrical know how as well as business and management experience to start their own company. they drew up papers and formed a partnership called crouse-hinds electric company, and went on to become one of the major employers in syracuse.

the company was a manufacturer of high grade electrical specialties. their first product offering was a changeable headlight for trolley cars. the company experienced rapid growth throughout the early 20th century. in 1911, a new plant was constructed in syracuse, ny.

by 1918, the company had shortened their name to crouse-hinds company and produced traffic lights, controllers and accessories. the company manufactured the first traffic signal in syracuse which was installed in 1924 at the corner of james and state streets. crouse-hinds produced traffic signals locally for many years, including the famous tipperary hill upside down light on the city's far west side.