How to light up a cigar in 1920

Today we talk about How to light up a cigar in 1920.

As I step back into the captivating world of the 1920s, I can almost hear the notes of jazz floating through the air, blending harmoniously with the rich aroma of aromatic cigars. Knowing how to light up a cigar in 1920 was more than just a method; it was an essential skill that symbolized sophistication and social status. Over 20 billion cigars were smoked in America during the 1920s, reflecting the growing popularity of this indulgence. So, let’s dive into the elegant steps that made this experience a true art form.

Step 1: Choose Your Cigar

The selection of a cigar set the tone for the entire experience, and there was a delightful variety available. Knowledge about cigar types was essential.

Select Your Cigar Type

During the 1920s, certain sizes and styles of cigars were particularly popular:

• Cremas: Approximately 5 inches long, offering a mild and creamy flavor, perfect for a relaxing evening.
• Coronas: Ranging from 5.5 to 6 inches, these cigars were favored for their balanced flavors and long smoking time.
• Churchills: Around 7 inches in length, known for their robust flavor, ideal for savoring for up to an hour.
• Petites: These short cigars, about 4 inches long, were perfect for brief social occasions.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cigar

<p><img alt=”Step 2: Prepare Your Cigar” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/2147.jpg”/></p>

Once you’ve selected the perfect cigar, preparation becomes the next important step. The way I cut the cigar significantly affects how well it draws and tastes.

Cutting Your Cigar

I always opted for a straight cut using a guillotine-style cutter for precision, removing just the cap. This ensures an opening that allows for optimal airflow. A poor cut could lead to frustration, compromising the rich flavors that can be experienced.

Step 3: Toasting the Foot of Your Cigar

<p><img alt=”Step 3: Toasting the Foot of Your Cigar” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/1525.jpg”/></p>

This step is crucial to achieving a balanced burn. Toasting makes all the difference.

Importance of Toasting

Engaging in toasting generally took about 20 seconds as I held the cigar above the flame—this helps prepare the foot of the cigar for an even light. It’s a subtle way to enhance the initial flavors, ensuring I fully embrace the exquisite experience ahead.

Step 4: Lighting Your Cigar

<p><img alt=”Step 4: Lighting Your Cigar” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/1210.jpg”/></p>

Now, the moment of ignition is upon us. The tools I choose play a significant role in this process.

Choosing the Right Lighter or Match

• Wood Matches: Preferred by many for their pure taste—great for achieving a classic lighting style.
• Butane Lighter: About 75% of smokers in the 1920s utilized them for their convenience and ease; just be cautious about any chemical aftertaste.
• Cigar-specific Lighters: Common in upscale lounges, with wind-resistant features ideal for outdoor events.

Step 5: Achieving an Even Burn

Maintaining an even burn is essential for a pleasurable experience. In fact, many aficionados claim that an uneven burn can elevate frustration to a maximum, detracting from enjoyment.

Techniques for an Even Flame

• Rotate the cigar slowly above the flame to ensure all parts are heated.
• Draw gently after lighting to encourage a consistent burn; a variable rate of inhalation can disrupt the flame.
• If inconsistencies appear, apply the flame directly and gently puff to encourage an even burn.

Step 6: Smoking Your Cigar

<p><img alt=”Step 6: Smoking Your Cigar” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/1492.jpg”/></p>

With the cigar lit, it’s time to indulge. Here’s how I enjoy it most.

Inhaling vs. Tasting the Smoke

In the 1920s, most cigar smokers, including myself, would avoid inhaling deeply, instead opting to taste the smoke in the mouth. This allows the complex notes of the tobacco to unfold without overwhelming the senses.

Step 7: Maintaining Your Cigar

Keeping my cigar lit during socializing can be challenging, but it’s an essential part of the overall experience.

Ashing and Keeping the Cigar Lit

Generally, I would ash the cigar every inch or so to maintain cleanliness and airflow. A clean ash also prevents interference with the natural flavors found in the tobacco.

Common Issues When Lighting a Cigar

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Even with the best preparations, issues can arise when lighting a cigar. Staying composed and knowing the solutions is vital.

Dealing with Uneven Burns

If I notice an uneven burn, using a gentle flame to touch up the affected area and taking a puff can often resolve the issue effectively.

Accessories for Lighting Cigars

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Having the right tools significantly enhances the cigar experience.

Recommended Lighters and Matches

• Wooden matches (for true cigar enthusiasts)
• Butane lighters (for the modern smoker)
• Windproof lighters (ideal for outdoor gatherings and events)

Etiquette for Smoking a Cigar

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Knowing how to conduct oneself while smoking is equally as important as the act itself.

Best Practices in Social Settings

Always ask permission before lighting up in a crowded space. Using a cutter rather than biting the end off displays respect towards the artistry of cigar making, which was paramount in bustling speakeasies.

Final Thoughts on Lighting Cigars

Every person engaged in lighting cigars in the 1920s had an appreciation for the ritual. Each step invites not just a taste, but an experience steeped in tradition.

Key Takeaways to Enhance Your Experience

Choose high-quality cigars, master the art of lighting, and appreciate every aspect of this timeless indulgence, from selection to smoking. The journey is just as rewarding as the destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

<p><img alt=”Frequently Asked Questions” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/2107.jpg”/></p>

How Long Should I Wait Before Re-lighting My Cigar?

After a cigar goes out, I usually wait about 5-10 minutes before I re-light, allowing the remaining tobacco to settle and preserve the primary flavors intact.

How did people used to light cigars?

In the 1920s, cigar aficionados typically lit their cigars using wooden matches or special lighters. The choice influenced the overall flavor experience, as true gentlemen valued authenticity.

How did people light cigars before matches?

<p><img alt=”How did people light cigars before matches?” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/1605.jpg”/></p>

Before matches, tools such as flint and steel were used for ignition, and some would even carry small coals for lighting in larger gatherings.

How do you light up a cigar?

<p><img alt=”How do you light up a cigar?” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/1179.jpg”/></p>

Lighting a cigar involves carefully selecting a cigar, slicing the cap, toasting the foot, and using a trusty lighter or match to bring it to life.

Did people smoke cigars in 1920?

<p><img alt=”Did people smoke cigars in 1920?” src=”/wp-content/uploads/2024/cigar/1145.jpg”/></p>

Cigar smoking thrived in 1920, driven by the rise of social clubs and public events—approximately 4 billion cigars were consumed annually at the time.