Chelsea Flash Light Pistol, 1900 - 1902

Camera accessories are sometimes odd and fun. Early flash equipment is often scary looking apparatus, and even scarier when ignited.

This Chelsea Flash Pistol is definitely odd and was found in its original box with the retailer’s label including instructions, ignition caps, and a sealed bottle of Scovill’s Electric Flash Compound. What is especially amusing is the advertising tag line stating: “Doubles the use and value of your camera – beats daylight …”

For some reason, the Chelsea Manufacturing Company created a photo flash resembling a pistol. Its handle and trigger look like the real thing, but a bowl that holds flash powder is at the ‘business end’ of the device. Advertising lists two sizes for $1.50 and $2.50 from 1900 to 1902.

Pulling the trigger pops open the lid and a hammer strikes an ignition cap, which in turn ignites the flash powder. I think of this as a 'cap gun' for photography.

I’m not sure if the Chelsea Flash Pistol will double the value of my wood & brass cameras or beat daylight, but it's a terrific accessory.