The history of irons

The early history of ironing is recorded in Chinese drawings dating back a thousand years. They filled pans with hot coals, while in Northern Europe people were using stones, glass or wood to smooth or press fabric. It was Western blacksmiths that began forging  flat irons during the Middle Ages, which were heated over fires or stoves and were in use through the 1880’s. In 1860 a new, more convenient self-heating gas iron came into use. Here are a few of of these historical items we’ve gathered at the Cottage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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