Know anything about a railroad torch?

[Anonymous]

Such torches were often used to melt the snow and ice that would block switch points in the winter.

[Anonymous]

I have come across an item that I think is called a railroad torch. I found something very much like it on the net.

The one I have seen is as follows > is made of time > has a long straight handle > has a pot to hold keroseen or oil > has a spout with a thick cord like wick running the length of the spout > in raised letters on botton CNR.

Anyone know what they were used for? Anyone know what they are worth today?