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See our large collection of Antiques and treaures at
JGallagherantiques in Norwich, NY
Fireplace Tools
The fireplace tools colonial Americans used to work their fireplaces usually consisted of hand wrought iron tongs and a shovel. These tools were crude and simple in design and forged on the property by the landowner or local blacksmiths. The scale of these early tools was small compared to the massive hearths used for cooking and heating the colonial home.
Most 18th and middle 19th century American toolsets consisted of tongs and shovels; rarely was a poker included (the poker was used by the British). There were no matching brooms, with those being added to 1950-1960s sets. As time passed these tools were fitted with brass knobs and handles. By mid-18th to mid-19th century, tools had increased in size and design sophistication. These tools had brass handles cast like andirons using the same motif as the andirons of the period. Over time these sophisticated and efficient toolsets were commonly used as an integral part of fireplace furnishings in American homes.
Please see some of these tools shown here, and let us iknow if you have any questions. If you don't see a set you like, feel free to get in touch with us to inquire about something specific. If we don't have it already, we may be able to locate the perfect set for your needs.