A light bulb that won't die: California's 124-year-old light still glows, defying time, tech and AI
19th-century engineering
has quietly defied time—and logic. Known as the
Centennial Bulb
, this humble light fixture has remained (mostly) lit since 1901, shining dimly but dutifully in a fire station in Livermore, California.
Originally installed by the Shelby Electric Company, this century-old survivor isn't part of a science fiction novel. It's real, it's still glowing, and it's drawing tourists, tech geeks, and romantics alike from around the globe, all eager to witness the bulb that beat time.
The Light That Outlasted Generations
Installed during the days of horse-drawn carriages and telegrams, the Centennial Bulb has now outlived several generations, two world wars, and the invention of the internet. And while it hasn't technically been on every second since 1901—temporary shut-offs during building relocations were unavoidable—it remains an engineering marvel.
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The fire station has even installed a live webcam feed, allowing you to watch this ancient beacon flicker in real time. If your idea of fun is staring at a 4-watt lightbulb suspended in a room, you're in luck—it's probably the most underwhelming yet awe-inspiring livestream on the internet.
— historyinmemes (@historyinmemes)
What's the Secret Behind the Eternal Flame?
Experts and enthusiasts alike have tried to unravel the secret of its longevity. Some say the answer lies in its hand-blown glass shell, which is unusually thick and durable. Others credit its low wattage—just 4 watts, a whisper compared to today's bright LEDs. The result? A bulb that gives off a warm glow rather than dazzling light, allowing it to avoid the burnout that fells even the most advanced smart bulbs.
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And yes, it does come with a cost. Over its 124-year lifespan, the bulb has consumed approximately 4,326 kWh, costing an estimated $51,916.46 based on current California rates. While many scoff that it's far more expensive and dimmer than modern lights, fans argue that its longevity is priceless.
'They Don't Make 'Em Like They Used To'
On Reddit and beyond, the Centennial Bulb has sparked both nostalgia and disbelief. 'It is pretty cool that the bulb has not been changed since 1901,' wrote one user. 'I wonder if it will continue to work in 100 years from now.'
Others echoed the sentiment: 'They don't make 'em like they used to.' It's a refrain that encapsulates more than just lightbulbs—it taps into a broader longing for durability, simplicity, and things built to last.
In an age where smartphones die in two years and software needs updates every week, the Centennial Bulb stands as a quiet, glowing testament to the craftsmanship of the past—and a reminder that maybe, just maybe, some things were better back then.
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A Symbol in the Age of AI
As artificial intelligence threatens to replace not just tools, but thought, the Centennial Bulb flickers on as a symbol of enduring human ingenuity. It's not just a bulb—it's a metaphor for perseverance in the face of constant change.
In the end, the Centennial Bulb isn't just lighting a fire station in California. It's lighting a fire in the hearts of those who still believe in making things that last.
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