Livermore, California: Longest Continuously Burning Light Bulb

This long-lived illuminator on the ceiling of the Livermore fire station is a true Light Bulb Methuselah.

In May the light went out. Never fear, it was the UPS (uninterruptible power supply) that had failed. They ran an extension cord and it came back to life. They have a much more permanent solution now.

Be sure to use the RoadsideAmerica.com directions because your GPS is likely to take you to a laboratory with a locked gate. Trust me when I say this is not as fun as the lightbulb. When you visit, go to the back of the building via Loyola St. There is parking just through the gate. Go to the bays where the fire engines are kept and the light is in there. If the doors are down ring the bell and if someone is there they will come get you. If they are out on a call, look through the window on the right of the bell and you can see the light hanging from the ceiling on the left-hand side.

We brought the firefighters ice cream because it was a warm day. They were very appreciative! If you want to bring them treats too, there are five firefighters on duty at a time. You might even get a special tour.

They also have t-shirts for sale and the proceeds go to the Firefighters Foundation. This organization helps people who have lost their homes due to fire. Adult sizes are $15 and children's were $10. I highly recommend this stop. Not only is there a light bulb that has been burning for over 100 years, there are super friendly firefighters!

The lightbulb that has been on for the longest time -- since 1901, with a few interruptions for power outages and moving to new locations. The bulb is in a modern firehouse in suburban Livermore, 45 miles from Oakland. It's hung from the high roof in the fire engine garage. The firehouse is on East Avenue, at the corner of Loyola Way. Yesterday I brought a friend from Australia to the bulb. It was the "highlight" of her trip!