Revolutionary-era Toaster

This week’s artifact of the week is our 18th century toaster! You read that right; this intimidating object – at first glance similar to a rake or a weapon – was used as a kitchen tool. 

More specifically, this toaster is from the Revolutionary War era and is made from hand-forged wrought iron. In order to achieve an even toasting, most Colonial toasters included a rotating hinge that allowed the bottom piece to swivel 360°; however, our model is a bit rarer. You see, this one can only flip back and forth, which causes more strain on the handle and hinge. Many devices similar to this one would break or bend, so few stand against the tests of time. 

Interestingly, this type of toaster was actually an improvement upon a previous design referred to as a gridiron. A type of early broiler, the gridiron would be laid down horizontally at the base of a fire and result in a rather uneven, charred piece of toast.

While toast was a convenient and economical source of nutrition for families and soldiers alike,
toasters were seen as a luxury item. This is because devices such as this one simply improved the comfort of the cook as they could set the toaster at the edge of the hearth and shift it as needed. Without one, the cook would need to hold a pan near the hot fire for extended periods of time.

This artifact also brings into discussion the techniques people used to preserve food before our modern technology. Without preservatives, fresh bread spoils within days. However, toasted bread kept in cool and dry areas can remain edible for weeks.

This artifact, as well as a charcoal-burning sadiron, was used in an educational program with a local school. Students learned about these artifacts, engaged in a Q&A, and had an opportunity to handle the objects. Attending community events such as our recent Strawberry Social and the upcoming Fall Festival helps the RHS make these programs special!

Information for this post was sourced from the following:

• https://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/164142-two-early-american-iron-toasters--late
  
• https://www.1stdibs.com/furniture/building-garden/fireplace-tools-chimney-pots/hand-forged-decorated-17th-18th-century-french-toaster/id-f_24209282/
  
• https://www.ironandpaper.com/product-page/revolutionary-war-era-late-18th-c-to-early-19th-c-toaster
  
• https://ediblesema.com/winter/toasting-through-time/