Introduction
As we enter the 21st century, it can be tempting to outfit your home with the latest modern conveniences. However, for some, the nostalgia and simplicity of late 19th century living holds great appeal. Wiring your home as if electricity had just been discovered can transport you back to a simpler time. In this article, I'll walk you through the steps for wiring your home like it's still 1899.
Overview of Late 19th Century Electrical Systems
In the 1890s, electricity was just beginning to be adopted for commercial and residential use. Systems were very basic compared to modern standards. Here's a quick overview:
- Power Sources - Homes would connect to a central power plant's direct current (DC) lines or use their own small generators and batteries.
- Wiring - Early electrical wiring was made from cloth-insulated copper with porcelain knobs to hold it in place. Wires were run through molded wood conduits.
- Fixtures - Common fixtures included carbon-filament bulbs, ceiling fans, and very basic wall-mounted light switches.
- Appliances - Aside from lighting, appliances were limited. Some popular early electric devices were irons, toasters, sewing machines, and electric kettles.
Obtain Period-Appropriate Wiring and Fixtures
The first step to wiring your home the old-fashioned way is sourcing the proper historical materials:
- Wiring - Seek out reproduction braided cloth-insulated copper wiring. Make sure it has the period-appropriate 2-wire system for positive and negative currents.
- Conduit - Wooden molding specially made for housing wiring can be found at some specialty antique shops or you can make your own.
- Fixtures - Check antique stores, flea markets, salvage yards, and online auctions for vintage light fixtures, switches, and other devices. Look for pieces from the 1890s to early 1900s.
- Generator - Unless you live in an area with DC power lines from an early power station, you'll need a period-accurate generator. Old hand-crank dynamos can sometimes be found.
When obtaining old wiring and fixtures, be sure to verify everything is in good, safe working order. Improperly maintained antique electrical devices can present fire and electrocution hazards.
Develop an Authentic Period Layout
Develop a wiring plan that matches how homes were electrified in the 1890s:
- Focus wiring in common living areas like the parlor, kitchen, and dining room. Bedrooms were often not electrified.
- Have just a few ceiling light fixtures and wall-mounted lamps in each room. Lots of sockets and elaborate lighting weren't common back then.
- Use surface-mounted wires run through molding conduits along walls and ceilings. Hiding wires behind walls came later.
- Install just a couple of primitive light switches to control lights. Many fixtures were still hardwired to power.
- Don't wire for major appliances aside from maybe a kitchen ice box. Things like washing machines and vacuums came later.
Pay attention to creating an authentically sparse and simple electrical system.
Use Proper Installation Methods
Once you have all of the necessary vintage electrical supplies, install them using historically accurate techniques:
- Run conduit molding along surfaces and use insulated staples to hold it in place.
- Run cloth-insulated wiring through conduits from the generator to fixtures.
- Use ceramic terminals and milled screws to make connections.
- Affix carbon filament bulbs into light sockets.
- Install blade switches for any control switches.
- Connect a hand-crank generator to wiring so it can supply power.
Refer to period instruction manuals for full installation details. Rewiring an entire home can be complex, so consult an electrician if unsure. Safety is paramount when dealing with antique electrical systems.
Use in a Sensible, Historically Accurate Way
Once your vintage electrical system is properly installed, use it as they would have back in the 19th century:
- Turn lights on at night and off in the day to conserve electricity.
- Limit usage of electric appliances like fans due to limited power capacity.
- Expect occasional power outages requiring restarting of the generator.
- Be prepared to hand-crank the generator to produce electricity as needed.
- Use oil lamps and candles as backup and in rooms without electrification.
- Understand light will be dim and sparse by modern standards.
Living with a 19th century electric system means adjusting expectations and behaviors for a slower, simpler way of life. But for those seeking an authentic historical experience, it can be highly rewarding.
Conclusion
Wiring your home as if it were still 1899 takes dedication to historically accuracy. But with the right materials, layout, installation, and usage practices, you can create a uniquely vintage electrified living experience. Just be sure to observe proper safety precautions when utilizing antique electrical devices. Though it takes effort, the nostalgia of late 19th century illumination is hard to beat.