The Probert Encyclopaedia of General Information

BEACON

A beacon is ignited, combustible materials placed in an iron cage, elevated upon a pole or other natural elevation, so as to be seen from a distance. Beacons were formerly used to guide travellers across unfrequented parts of the country, and to alarm the inhabitants on the occasion of an invasion or a rebellion. It was from the earlier beacons that street lighting first developed in London.
Research Beacon