In the 18th century, lanterns were popular to transport lighting such as candles and small oil lamps, offering a way to light up the night and allow evening activities. Glass-enclosed lanterns with ornate housings provided the ideal means for lighting drafty passages in eighteenth-century homes. In 1760, George Washington ordered "1 handsome glass Lanthorne for Passage - wt. Lamps & 10 Gals. Oyl" from his London factors. Lanterns sometimes incorporated pierced designs at the top, so that light shining through create a play of pattern on the ceiling. 

Today, lanterns create a wonderful warm atmosphere and continue to light the garden paths at Mount Vernon during special evening events, such as the Wine Tasting Festival, and at Christmas time. 

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