Light fitting made by the Edison Swan Electric Co. Ltd

Light fitting made by the Edison Swan Electric Co. Ltd, Ponder End. Converts a bayonet light fitting to a plug socket, 1910-1940.

Early adopters of domestic electricity would use a fitting like this to convert their light fitting into a plug socket. Initially, in the early 20th century, electricity was primarily used for lighting, meaning there were often very few dedicated power outlets available. To power small appliances, people could use their light sockets using an adapter like this, turning the light fitting into a makeshift power source for electric appliances such as irons or toasters or hair curling tongs.