Abacus
Antique Dealers: Vintage Stoves
Have
you ever been to the antique market, or watching the
"Antiques Roadshow", and seen those wonderful
woodstoves for days passed? They are absolutely amazing,
especially if you can find one in good shape. A friend
of mine recently installed a "4 O’clock"
stove dating back to the early 1900’s, and it
looks marvelous! It got me thinking about woodstoves,
in general, and I started to research many of the
vintage stoves. I have listed the most popular models
below. Get yourself a cup of tea, put your feet up,
and read on!
Victorian
Stoves – These stoves date back to the late 1800’s.
They are generally made from cast iron, and adorned
with nickel. This early kitchen stove will meet all
of your cooking needs.
Country
Stoves – These stoves generally date to around
the early 1900’s. It is very similar to the Victorian
stove, but more effort has been out into the nickel
highlights and the clean, crisp casting.
Retro
Stoves – These particular stoves are simply updated
versions of the above. In the 1930’s, when these
stoves were immensely popular, the kitchen seemed
to be the central point in one’s home. These
stoves were integral to the "modern" kitchen.
Cylinder
Stoves – These stoves are likely the most easily
recognizable of the antique stoves. They were renowned
for their extraordinary ability to heat a home, while
taking up very little floor space.
Potbelly
Stoves – Early American photographs abound with
images of the potbelly stove. These stoves were found
in railway stations, saloons, brothels, and many other
historic settings on the western frontier.
Parlour
Stoves – Back in the Victorian era, these beautiful
stoves were a focal point in traditional parlour rooms.
At the height of their popularity, artisans adorned
them with various designs such as cherubs, mythological
figures, and floral designs.
Franklin
Fireplaces – This stove is pure Americana. It
was designed by Benjamin Franklin, and early American
inventor, craftsman, and President. All wood stoves
used for heating owe their heritage to Benjamin Franklin,
and his efficient design.
These
are but a few of the stove types I came across in
my research. These stoves are all wonderful examples
of design and function. If you happen to see any of
these stoves while shopping for antiques, do let me
know. Or buy one for yourself! You won’t regret
it!
