Geographical Locations of Glass Insulator Usage in North America

Introduction: This endeavor began back in the early 1990s. My original intent was to gather as much data as possible and eventually publish it in a booklet form for collectors. The gathering process proved to be much more challenging than originally anticipated…then along came the Internet. I am pleased to finally have this opportunity to openly share this assemblage of data with you. I especially look forward to seeing the listings increase as new submissions are received.

The Purpose: The listings in this database are being collected for historical preservation purposes and to be used as a reference base for insulator collectors. As each insulator is removed from service, a piece of our industrial history vanishes with it. Recording this information while still achievable is an important mission for our generation of insulator collecting.

The Data: There are numerous examples of common insulators that were used by the millions in multitudes of locations across the country. It is not the intent to list these “common” insulators here. The goal is to record insulators that were seemingly limited in their locations of usage, however as new information is constantly added, this may not appear to be the case for certain entries. As the title implies, entries are limited to the geographical locations of glass insulator usage in North America. Some exceptions may be found, such as insulators dug from the Hemingray dump, or North American insulators found in service outside North America.

In some instances the information posted may appear quite generalized and incomplete, yet in other cases very detailed. This is based on how the information was submitted or obtained from each individual source. Insulator base type is provided when available, e.g., sdp (sharp drip points), rdp (round drip points), sb (smooth base), etc. Lack of these details usually implies the most commonly occurring base type. You may also note that some generally known data is currently absent from the list. If you can provide any missing or additional information, please submit it. The success of this project is based on your participation and contributions. Additions and updates are continuously ongoing.

Recognition: Much gratitude is bestowed to all the collectors and linemen that have shared and continue to share this treasured information with our hobby.  I also want to thank the many insulator book authors, magazine article writers, magazine editors, website webmasters and auctioneers that have provided and continue to provide valuable historical information that has been beneficial to this project.

Submission Requirements: I am continuously accepting new data for uncommon insulators. My basic request is that you please provide the CD number, general embossing (if any), color and location of usage. Detailed embossing is not required (unless it is a rare noteworthy variant). Color should be somewhat specific. Location can be general or detailed. Any and all information, complete or incomplete, is encouraged for submission.  

Please email your submissions to: Dwayne Anthony  insulators@open-wire.com

Last updated: Tuesday, August 6, 2024; Total items: 1,372

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