Ruffling and flat iron

after 1870

Maker

Myron H. Knapp (dates unknown)

Measurements

5-1/4 in x 6-3/4 in x 3-3/4 in

Materials

Iron

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, The David Wilson Mansion, Inc.

Accession Number

1971.1467

Inscription

“PAT’D / 70 AUG 2” is cast into the top surface of the iron immediately below the handle.

Condition Notes

The latch to lock the iron in the down position is missing.

Provenance

Ex coll. Mrs. E. Tatnall (Mary Corbit) Warner.

Comments

This iron combines the function of a flat or sad iron for smoothing or pressing with an iron for ruffling or crimping textiles.  The wedge-shaped iron is hinged at the front to allow the body to open, exposing the crimping surfaces on each section.  They have multiple ridges that mesh when closed.  A pivoting latch to hold the hinged iron in the down position is missing.  This dual-function object was patented by Myron H. Knapp of Bay City, Michigan.