Typical 8 inch Laundry Stove.
That is the size of the coal burn pot.
These stoves were built low so when a laundry "boiler" was on top it wasn't too tall to be able to plunge the clothes with an agitator type plunger.
Removing the two lids as well as center cover allows direct contact with heat (from coal) to bottom of boiler.
Normally used on an open back porch during summer when the extra heat was not needed in the house.
3 things to clean; 1). chemical or soap Dwell Time; 2). Heat, and 3). Agitation. The less you have of any of the 3, the more another must make up for the one missing or deficient. So bringing it up to a boil reduced the need for soap and agitation.
This stove was probably made in the early 1900's. (possibly could be August of 1884 since that is within the time frame of the company name. Prior to 1900, there was normally more scroll work and Victorian style) Could be right around 100 years old making it "antique" right now.
Incorporated in 1881 (succeeding Phillips, Buttorff & Company) and a long history of consolidating with and absorbing many businesses, Henry W. Buttorff started out as a sheet metal worker (tin knocker) and became a business mogul known nationally. Involved with steamboats, railroads, stoves, furniture, pottery, coal, real estate..... he had his hand in anything Tennessee.
Amazing history of this family and business starting with his Grandfather from Holland moving to PA where his father and himself were born.
Published 1913; a history of Tennessee and Tennesseans ; the leaders and representative men in commerce, industry and modern activities;
http://files.usgwarchives.net/tn/davidson/bios/buttorff19nbs.txt
We use essential cookies to make this site work, and optional cookies to enhance your experience.