Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
1956.09.01 |
Object Name |
Iron |
Features |
Almond-shaped sad iron with pointed ends ends. Has detachable wooden handle, held on by wooden knob. Base of handle has engraved text: "3." |
Object Story |
Before modern electric irons, there were two prominent designs for irons: the sadiron and the charcoal iron. Each one had advantages and disadvantages which would eventually be resolved with modern-day steam irons. Charcoal irons and box irons had holes at the bottom to allow airflow, and were hollow with a lid at the top, in which burning charcoals would be inserted. The iron would then be used as normal, pressing clothes to remove seams. The charcoal iron produced a lot of smoke and would often have to be used outside and, if used incorrectly, could leave soot marks on the clothes. Sadirons and flatirons were smaller, flat pieces of metal with a metal handle, which would be heated directly inside the stove or over a fire before use. However, because the iron was made entirely of metal, it needed to be handled carefully with a cloth covering the handle or else you could burn yourself very easily. Additionally, it lost heat very easily, and often you would need two irons being heated and used in rotation while ironing, creating additional material cost. It belonged to Mr. Joseph VanAlstyne and his wife Elizabeth Fennell . They lived on a farm south half lot 19, concession 4, Richmond. Lambert VanAlstyne was the U.E.L. member of the family who settled in Richmond, when Peter VanAlstyne took his group to Adolphustown. Lambert was the father of James. |
Subjects |
Sadiron Flatiron Laundry |