If you are interested in antique stove collecting, the first step to building a complete antique stove collection is learning its history and knowing the different types of ancient stoves.

You should know for instance that it was around 1728 that there was a mass production of stoves made from cast iron. So if someone sells you an ancient cast iron stove was made in the 1680's then you should immediately know you're being hustled into buying a fake. Some two decades after that, closed stoves began entering the market. A better version of it was created by Benjamin Franklin and was called the Pennsylvania Fireplace.

In the 1760's, companies began manufacturing ten-plate stoves. And in the early 1800's, initial designs of Step-top cook stoves appeared. It was in this century that box stoves became quite popular. These are just a few of the facts that you should be aware of if you're serious about collecting ancient stoves.

Main Types of Stoves According to Purpose Domestic - Several models of domestic stoves were produced starting in the mid 1800's. Wick stoves were powered by kerosene fuel and could be virtually used in any room. To know if an ancient stove is of this type, check if it has a noiseless burner, cast iron support ring for the pan, and permanently attached rods to serve as additional support for the unit.

Camping - It was in early 20th century that people truly found the need, time, or even the desire for stoves that were specifically made for camping or outdoor use. At the start, camping stoves used pressurized kerosene burners or alcohol for power. To make them travel-friendly, manufacturers did their best to make them streamlined, or even better, collapsible.

Industrial - As the name itself implies, this type of stove was used by commercial companies. Because of its size and features, industrial stoves weren't suitable for home or camping use. To identify if an ancient stove is of this type, look for something noticeably larger than usual, uses a roarer burner and has no feet.

How and Where to Look for Ancient Stoves There are many land-based and online shops today that specialize in selling ancient stoves. You can contact or visit their store to see if they have anything you like. You can also inform them of what you want, and they'll usually be glad to find it up for you. Sometimes, there are ancient stoves sold at garage sales as well. You can purchase these and have them repaired by professionals.