Sad Iron

This type of iron was known as a "sad" or "flat" iron. 'Sad' was an old English word meaning 'solid', and often referred to the heavier irons, with this particular example marked as "7" pounds (3.17kg). The weight and shape of the iron helped to retain heat whilst smoothing or flattening fabric, though it was not uncommon to have to re-heat the iron several times for a load of laundry. This iron was made by a blacksmith, though the exact manufacturer is unknown. Ironing was extremely hot and heavy work; the flat base of the iron would be heated over a stove or fire and the handle would need to be grabbed with a cloth to avoid burning one's hands. It was often a challenge to ensure no soot or charcoal made its way onto the fabric. In most houses laundry was the job of the women of the household or their maids and they would have to be reasonably strong to use the iron properly.