History of Cast Iron Stoves
The cast iron stove came into being in the 1700s. Cast iron is iron mixed with carbon and silica and cast in molds. It conducts heat very efficiently, and is strong and sturdy, withstanding years of wear. In colonial America, the most famous version of the cast iron stove was invented by Benjamin Franklin.
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History
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In 1742, Ben Franklin invented the open stove, which was made of cast iron. It used much less wood than the traditional fireplace, efficiently heating the colonial home. It was also safer, providing an enclosed area for the home fire.
Function
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Since the Franklin stove was freestanding, it could be placed in the center of a room for better heat circulation, and also could be positioned without regard to the chimney. As time went on, improvements were added, including a chimney vent.
Time Frame
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By 1790, the Franklin stove was being manufactured for sale throughout the colonies. At the same time, other manufacturers were developing stoves for the specific use of cooking. The twentieth-century discovery of steel signified the end of the cast iron stove.
Features
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The earliest stoves were often quite small and simple. As the box stove was developed, decorative motifs were added to the more expensive versions, and many grand homes had stoves that were not only massive in size, but were also ornately decorated to match the wealth and stature of the residents.
Fun Fact
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Governor Thomas of Pennsylvania offered Ben Franklin a patent for his stove, but Franklin declined. He said that he was not looking for financial reward, but rather to improve people's lives.
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