Name/Title
Sad IronEntry/Object ID
2022.2.32.49Description
This cast-iron sad iron has a removeable wooden handle to allow the user to transfer the handle from an iron that has cooled to a hot iron. The sad iron needs to be the proper temperature for ironing. If it is too cold, the wrinkles will remain, and if the iron is too hot, it will burn the clothing.
Sad is an Old English word for solid. The sad iron is solid cast iron and a heavy tool. Mary Potts invented the removeable wooden handle for the sad iron in the late 19th century. Previous to this invention, women would suffer severe burns or even death from what today seems to be a simple household chore.
A person could have more than one iron heating at one time, hence the phrase, "too many irons in the fire."Location
Ohio State Park
Lake Loramie State Park
