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

with burning charcoal.

These tools were known as charcoal box irons.

They were not simply warmed pieces of metal. Each iron contained a small fire inside its hollow body.

Glowing coals provided the heat needed to flatten damp linen, sharpen collars, and remove stubborn wrinkles from clothing.

To modern eyes, the design can appear alarming.

A person was continue reading …