The Lost Code

Candle Mold and Box

19th century
Tinplate
H. 31 cm (mold)
L. 30.5 cm (box)
People who did not have the means to buy beeswax candles dipped or molded their own candles at home. Melted tallow, preferably from sheep because it hardened faster, was poured into molds containing candle wicks. There were a number of disadvantages to tallow candles: they melted or crumbled in warm temperatures, smelled bad, and attracted rodents, which is why they had to be stored in closed (preferably metal) boxes.
Parks Canada collection, Québec

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