Portsmouth Stove & Range Co. Mogul No. 1 Stove, Used by the Michigan Central Railroad, circa 1890

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Artifact Overview

In the 19th century, passenger trains were heated by a single coal stove in each car. Riders sitting far from the stove shivered, while those nearest to it sweated. Wooden passenger cars were filled with flammable fabrics and surfaces, making the coal stove a serious fire hazard -- especially if the car overturned in an accident.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Stove (Heating equipment)

Date Made

circa 1890

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

40.81.7

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of the Michigan Central Railroad.

Material

Cast iron

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Width: 30.5 in
Height: 56.25 in
Length: 36 in
Diameter: 23 in

Inscriptions

on front of stove: MOGUL / NO 1 on apron: THE PORTs STOVE & RANGE Co. / PORTSMOUTH, O.