This photo dated to 1929 shows illuminated Christmas decorations in front of the San Joaquin Light Power Co. building. Photo via Pop Laval Foundation
Written by Denine Currie
Local history buffs attended a news conference held at The Archive on Kern last Friday for answers to the mystery of the Belmont Lanterns.
A contractor on the high-speed rail project discovered 82 large painted lanterns while excavating the Belmont Underpass in June.
The origins of the sheet metal light fixtures were initially a mystery, but after a five-month investigation, researchers uncovered the truth behind the ornate artifacts in time for this year’s holiday season.
Historical Society Archivist Donald Spencer made the breakthrough discovery while inspecting one of the lanterns. He identified the lamp’s electrical components and found the name Bryant Spartan.
“Once I saw the ‘Bryant Spartan’ mark in the plug, everything began to click,” said Spencer.
The “Belmont Lanterns” were used to decorate street lamps on Fulton Street. Pop Laval Foundation photo
The Bryant Electric Co. was founded in Connecticut in 1888. This crucial find allowed Spencer to narrow down the manufacturing period of the device to between 1918 and 1940.
Referencing a Fresno Bee article published in Dec. 1931, Spencer determined that the lanterns would have been mounted to streetlamps, then called electroliers, serving as outdoor holiday decor, their red and green color scheme in line with the Christmas theme.
“It was the missing puzzle piece that allowed me to match the lanterns to descriptions in The Fresno Bee, referencing medieval style illuminated decorations used on Fulton Street during the 1929 to 1931 Yuletide events.”
Elizabeth Laval, president of The Fresno City & County Historical Society, detailed the importance of preserving historical artifacts like the lanterns.
Contractors unearthed the Belmont Lanterns in Fresno in June 2025. Photo via Fresno Historical Society
“Preserving these lanterns and understanding their story allows us to reconnect with a moment when Fresno’s civic pride shone brightly — literally and figuratively. Identifying their origin ensures that this piece of our shared history is not lost again,” said Laval.
The Historical Society is working to protect the antique lanterns from further damage caused by time and to restore those that were damaged by flooding and exposure to the elements. They hope the lanterns may be displayed in public once again some time.
“This find is a reminder of why historical preservation matters. When we protect and study our past, we honor the people who built our community, and strengthen our shared future.”
Also on display at The Archive, “From China to Fresno: A 150-year Cultural Journey”. The exhibit features photos and historical artifacts that showcase the lives and culture of early Chinese immigrants in the Central Valley.