Before the invention of the electric light, fire was the only source of light when the sun went down. Among the sources of firelight were candles. Candles were made at home from materials that were readily available. Beef tallow was the main ingredient and could be obtained during the fall cattle slaughter.

A cup of water and the fat from the animals were put in a large pot and boiled to make all the non-fat material separate from the fat. The water was important to help keep the fat from scorching from the heat of the wood stove. After the fat was boiled, it was strained and left to sit overnight.

Beeswax was also used in candles, but not in very large amounts because of its availability and cost. Churches had money and therefore, preferred to use beeswax. It is the beeswax in candles that gives them their yellowish colour.

Over the years, a variety of different materials have been used for candlewicks. At first, rush was common, but its use died out when imported cotton became available. Cotton provided a better wick which did not need to be trimmed if the cotton was braided. Braided cotton burned in its own fire unlike unbraided cotton, linen or rush.

The two most common methods for making candles are dipping and moulding. At Sherbrooke Village, we use moulds for our candles. The first step is to seal the candle mould. Because the mould is open from both ends, one end must be closed so that wax doesn't run out. This can be accomplished by putting nearly hardened wax over the holes. The second step is to put in the wick, which is tied to a stick and hung in the mould. Once the wick is in place the mould is filled with hot wax and left to set. When the candles are set they are removed from the mould and are ready for use. This process is on display at the Cumminger House and finished candles may be purchased at the Company Store.

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