Dietz “Little Wizard” Lantern – N.Y. & Queens Electric Light & Power Co. View Watchlist >
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Lot # C191
System ID # 26860392
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Dietz “Little Wizard” Lantern – N.Y. & Queens Electric Light & Power Co.
Issued to early line and maintenance crews of the New York & Queens Electric Light & Power Company, this authentic Dietz “Little Wizard” lantern bears the rare property embossing “PROPERTY OF N.Y. & Q.E.L. & P. CO.” across the vented top. The bold red globe, marked “DIETZ LITTLE WIZARD N.Y. U.S.A.”, provided a vivid warning light at night — used to signal energized work zones, open street excavations, or power-line repair sites during the city’s early electrification.
Founded in 1900 through the merger of several small Queens-area utilities, the New York & Queens Electric Light & Power Company powered much of Long Island City and its surrounding boroughs until being absorbed into Consolidated Edison in the 1920s–30s. This lantern, dating from that active era, stands as a tangible relic of New York’s transformation from gaslight to electric power — a working-class tool that quite literally illuminated the modern city.
A superb historical piece for collectors of early utility or industrial memorabilia, reflecting both the craftsmanship of R.E. Dietz and the dawn of New York’s electric age.
Condition
Good overall condition with age-appropriate paint wear and minor oxidation. Globe remains intact and free of cracks or chips. Markings are clearly legible.
Dimensions
Overall: 14" with handle × 6 5/8" × 6 1/8"
Please Note: Soup Shown for Scale in Photo
