The next time the power goes out, you might want to take a few moments to think about the flashlight—a tool that illuminates the darkness for millions of people each year. You also might want to think about this tool the next time National Flashlight Day comes around on December 21st. Just make sure that you have a flashlight ready on this day because it just so happens to fall on the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year.

The History of the Flashlight

Since the origins of National Flashlight Day are currently unknown to us, we thought we’d turn our attention to exploring the history of the flashlight instead. The flashlight was first designed by David Misell and patented on January 10, 1899.

It received Patent No. 617,592 which was assigned to the American Electrical Novelty & Manufacturing Company. This flashlight was just a paper tube with a light bulb and a brass reflector on its end.

Fun Flashlight Facts

Although we bet that most people reading this probably didn’t think that we could come up with fun flashlight facts, we’ve defied the impossible and have gathered together some interesting facts about this tool. Below are some facts about the flashlight that you may or may not have known.

• The principle behind the flashlight has been used in everything from key rings to penlights.
• The first flashlight operated off of three D-cell batteries.
• Although early flashlights used incandescent bulbs, modern flashlights usually use LED lights.
• While this device is known as a flashlight in the U.S., in many parts of Europe it’s known as a torch.
• The “typical” flashlight usually contains a casing, reflector, LED bulb, switch, and battery.

Observing National Flashlight Day

Grab your flashlight and take the time to appreciate the technology behind it on National Flashlight Day. Maybe take the time to enjoy the childhood game of shadow puppets. While you’re making shadow puppets, make sure to use the hashtag #NationalFlashlightDay on your social media accounts. Let’s spread the word about this holiday and the importance of the flashlight.