Flatiron, 1893-1910
Add to SetSummary
In the 1870s, Mary Florence Potts made ironing easier. Conventional single-piece, cast iron flatirons were heated on stoves -- and the handle got hot! Mrs. Potts invented and patented a detachable wood handle that stayed cool and could be switched between her irons. The irons also featured two pointed ends that allowed users to work in either direction. Mrs. Potts' irons remained popular into the 20th century.
In the 1870s, Mary Florence Potts made ironing easier. Conventional single-piece, cast iron flatirons were heated on stoves -- and the handle got hot! Mrs. Potts invented and patented a detachable wood handle that stayed cool and could be switched between her irons. The irons also featured two pointed ends that allowed users to work in either direction. Mrs. Potts' irons remained popular into the 20th century.
Artifact
Iron (Tool)
Date Made
1893-1910
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
73.136.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Joseph Vargo.
Material
Cast iron
Wood (Plant Material)
Color
Black (Color)
Brown
Dimensions
Length: 6.75 in
Width: 3.25 in
Inscriptions
on top of base 73.136.1.2: THE A. C. WILLIAMS CO. RAVENNA, OHIO / SIZE 2 on top of base 73.136.1.3: THE A. C. WILLIAMS CO. RAVENNA, OHIO / SIZE 1
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