Swedish torch
Source of light from a burning tree trunk / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dear Wikiwand AI, let's keep it short by simply answering these key questions:
Can you list the top facts and stats about Swedish torch?
Summarize this article for a 10 year old
A Swedish torch[lower-alpha 1] is a source of heat and light from a vertically set tree trunk, incised and burning in the middle. Despite its more common name "Swedish torch" it was invented by the Finns and it became known in Europe during the 1600s and is now used by forest workers, and for leisure activities (especially in southern Germany). Due to its flat surface and good embers, it can also be used for cooking. Compared to a campfire, it is more compact, and therefore several small heat sources can be distributed over an area.
The origins of Swedish torch are not clear. According the forest museum Lusto Swedish torch was invented by Finns in the northern Finland. It was made by loggers to warm up and make wood. In 1950s when chainsaws became more popular it became common to make a carving to the halfway of the log and put it standing upwards. Another tradition attributes the development of the torch to the Swedish military during the Thirty Years' War; using a saw or hacksaw or an axe, the Swedes are said to have made burning and glowing logs to warm their soldiers.[1] This method of providing heat meant that their troops did not have to carry their own firewood with them but were able to get supplies on site, as the freshly cut, green wood can burn due to the chimney effect.