Ode to Chelonoidis nigra abingdonii. A Long Farewell

Lonesome George was a Galaplagos Giant Tortoise subspecies that inhabited Pinta Island off the coast of Ecuador.  He was significant in that one year ago today- June 24, 2012 - his death resulted in the extinction of his kind on the planet earth.

The subspecies Chelonoidis nigra abingdonii was discovered by British herpetologist Albert Gunther in 1877.  The tortoises inhabited this section of the world for centuries until hunting during the latter half of the 19th C virtually eradicated them.  The introduction of goats in the mid 1950's also denuded the island's vegetation to the detriment of the species. Efforts to exterminate the goats were successful in returning the ecosystem to health.  It was believed that the tortoises were extinct until a single male was discovered in 1971.  Aptly named Lonesome George,  attempts to mate him with other subspecies failed and he lived the remainder of his 40 years... alone.

Lonesome George died from heart failure due to natural causes, at the incredible age of 100!

A sad so long and good bye George.  

                                                         Mourning our loss -  extinction is forever

O is for Oil Lamps

What is it about the oil lamp's appeal?  Beyond just providing light, these lovely vintage items are a testament to the ingenuity of a time gone by.  All standing oil lamps consist of a pedestal with stem and base,  a hollow font (oil vessel), a burner and chimney. Beyond their utilitarian purpose, they draw the eye to the beauty of ordinary objects that have been decorated and designed to be cherished.

Emerging during the 'kerosene era',  oil lamps came into being during the late 1850's when petroleum fuel was introduced as an affordable alternative to whale oil.  Glassmakers at the time produced literally thousands of beautifully detailed lamps, including artful shades with elegant wick raisers gracing unique patterned glass designs.  These lamps represent a quality and variety that has been unparalleled in glassware produced in America.  The lamps were a staple in US households through the 1940's and still serve as source of light in remote rural areas.  Amish continue to use oil lamps as do others who appreciate the lamp's distinctive glow - softly luminous and steady;  a comforting symbol of family and friendship from days gone by.  

Vintage oil lamps are easily found and range from $75 to $300, with some rare patterns topping $1000.

Happy Hunting!

Oh the difference

Oh, the difference between 

nearly right

and 

exactly right.

                                                   - H. Jackson Brown, Jr., American Author

you know it when you see it !

Nice things

Nice things come in small packages here at simplycoolstuff summer sale