Antique Wood Stoves

If you've ever seen a western film the chances are you've seen a pot belly stove lurking somewhere in the background. At one time Pot belly stoves were like the televisions or computers of today- life was almost unthinkable without one. Not only did they generate heat cheaply and effectively in homes and schools, but they were focal points to gather around and discuss the matters of the day in the local post office or general store

As the name suggests these stoves were designed to grace a more formal area of the home, namely the parlor. Subsequently a parlor stove was much smaller than a kitchen stove but much more glamorous than its pot bellied cousin.
Often made with scrolled edges and ornamental flourishes a parlour stove created a convivial atmosphere for the well heeled to relax and entertain in.
To be truthful they can be real eye-catchers and this explains why refurbished parlor stoves can be pretty pricey to get hold of.

Benjamin Franklin - what a man!
Author, scientist, Founding Father and inventor of the Franklin Stove.
Tired of the inefficiency of the humble fireplace and worried by the rising cost of firewood, Mr Franklin decided to address the problem and before you could say 'Fly a Kite' hey presto he'd designed his very own stove.
Designed to separate warm air from smoke and then circulate the air back into the room, the Franklin (or Pennsylvania Stove, as it was first called) instantly became a hit with the general public. In fact, so many stoves were sold that the governor of Pennsylvania, realising that Ben could make a fortune from his invention, offered him a patent for his stove. Ben declined though as he said he wasn't looking for financial reward, but rather a way to improve people's lives.

First used during the revolutionary war by colonist soldiers, the box stove was highly prized thanks to its light weight portable nature. Capable of heating and feeding a group of hungry soldiers and yet small enough to carry around, the box stove became an invaluable battlefield friend.
After the war, the popularity and size of the stove increased. However, now the stove wasn't only used for individual use such as in the kitchen or workshop at home, but schools, churches and meeting houses all got in on the act as well.
Although the box stove is probably the most basic of all the stoves mentioned, they can still heat a workspace surprisingly well.