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

That Helped Shape the Future

The charcoal box iron was a heavy cast-iron chamber filled with glowing fuel, carried across fabric by a person protected only by a wooden handle and careful technique.

One careless movement could release a spark, scorch valuable linen, or burn the user.

Yet the tool also reduced endless trips to the stove and provided a more continue reading …