Phillips County Museum News for Wednesday, May 17, 2023

What household appliance put women at considerable risk? They could both flatten and explode? In the early 1940’s, gas-powered irons replaced the ‘sad irons’. With the new technology a pump was used to build up pressure in the fuel tank and a match was lit underneath the iron, making a flame inside the iron. These irons carried a real risk of causing a fire or even exploding. In addition, some versions were made with a wooden handle that had the potential to burn the user’s hand or burn up entirely. By the 1970’s gas irons were replaced by electric steam irons, making a simple, albeit still tedious, household chore much safer and affordable. Stop by the Museum and see our wonderful collection of irons.

Museum hours are 10-5 Monday-Saturday.