Fireplace Patent Model
Object Details
- Description
- Patent model of a freestanding, raised-hearth fireplace having a detachable oval firebox with removable, fully-enclosed, picketed chamber. Firebox rests atop central recess in hearth directly in front of a conforming concave back covered with embossed metallic-gold paper featuring a trumpeting winged angel next to a rayed sun. Flue at top back of firebox inserts into a corresponding slot in mantel that connects to a horizontal smoke pipe, oval in section, behind the frieze. Large rectangular opening in hearth front allows access to ashpit; diamond piercings at front corners and sides. Entire model japanned black with "THOMAS WHITSON'S / INVENTION" stenciled in yellow or metallic gold paint on mantel top and frieze. Soldered and riveted construction.
- Paper tags tied to hearth with red and purple (faded) wove ribbon are printed and handwritten with patent information for U.S. Patent No. 784, granted to Thomas Whiston of New York, NY, on June 14, 1838, for "Constructing the Flues of Open Fireplaces".
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- date made
- ca 1838
- patent date
- 1838-06-14
- ID Number
- DL.251497 [dup1]
- inventor
- Whitson, Thomas
- Object Name
- fireplace
- Physical Description
- copper sheet (overall material)
- iron wire (grate, hearth rim material)
- paint (exterior finish material)
- Measurements
- overall: 4 7/8 in x 5 3/4 in x 3 1/4 in; 12.3825 cm x 14.605 cm x 8.255 cm
- place made
- United States: New York, New York City
- associated place
- United States: New York, New York City
- See more items in
- Home and Community Life: Domestic Life
- Domestic Furnishings
- Subject
- Heating
- Patent Models
- Record ID
- nmah_311818
