The “mystery” object in the photo: a charcoal box iron Full article

the fuel carefully.

If the charcoal burned too slowly, the soleplate would cool and fail to press the fabric properly.

If the fire became too intense, the iron could scorch linen or damage delicate material.

Keeping the Heat Steady Required Skill

Using a charcoal box iron involved more than filling it with coals and pressing clothes.

The worker had to maintain continue reading …