A solid, pressing iron that came after the sadiron, made of cast iron with a flat triangular shaped plate. Once fully heated – over hot coals or the range – it would be used to press household linen and clothing, always over a damp muslin cloth. The steam had the same effect as a modern steam iron and the cloth protected the fabrics beneath from excess heat and iron marks. The laundry of a large house would have several irons in different sizes and weights which would be used with different types of fabrics. I seem to remember that some were filled with hot coals and other with water for weight and, or, longer lasting heat.
