I recently had to do some restoration work on the firebox of my beautiful 1906 fireplace insert. When I pulled it away from the fireplace, I found a stamp in the back that it had been made by "Dawson Bros - Chicago, Ill". I did a wee bit of research and found a picture of the the Dawson Bros building in Chicago which I posted on Pinterest so I'd know right where to find it.
I didn't think anyone but me would be much interested in the Dawson Bros building, but Beth found it. The Dawson Brothers were her Great Grandfather's brothers.
So Beth, this post is for you ... these photos are a right-click away for your collection of your Great Uncle's work.
I didn't think anyone but me would be much interested in the Dawson Bros building, but Beth found it. The Dawson Brothers were her Great Grandfather's brothers.
So Beth, this post is for you ... these photos are a right-click away for your collection of your Great Uncle's work.
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| The insert in all it's glorious detail. It is a coal burning fireplace ... the firebox is very small and with the solid front, designed to burn coal long and slow. |
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| It was made in an era of fine detail. No surface is left unadorned. |
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| Detail of the 'door' which lifts off to reveal the firebox. The pastoral scene is done in heavy relief |
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| So sweet ... she is wearing sabots on her feet. |
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| The makers stamp is in a place that it cannot be seen unless the insert is removed from the fireplace ... a modesty lost with today's marketing practices. |
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| And a separate plaque for the grate Vulcan Series Grate No. 422 |
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| The complete fireplace a la 1906. It's a wonder that after 107 years it is still all in place as it was in 1906. |
