LEDs may be all the rage now, but back in 1620, the Betty Lamp was at the forefront of lighting technology. Its name is derived from the German word "besser" which means "better." This covered lamp with a lid was a vast improvement on the hollow stones or shells previously used for lamps. Betty lamps came to the New World on the Mayflower. They were a primary source of home lighting, using a twisted cloth wick and animal fat as fuel. Collectors now prize these lamps, but we're all probably grateful for light that comes with the flick of a switch!