The "Betty" lamp, made of iron, was a primary source of light for settlers in the Plymouth Colony from the mid-1600s to the late 170's.

The Betty lamp is thought to be of German, Austrian, or Hungarian origin. They were commonly made of iron or brass and were most often used in the home or workshop. These lamps burned fish oil or fat trimmings and had wicks of twisted cloth.

Betty lamps are being made today but now most people burn olive oil or vegetable oil. They are popular with living history buffs. Because of its association with colonial domestic activity, the Betty lamp was chosen for the symbol of the American Home Economics Association in 1926.