“Before the modern kitchen range or the microwave, the hearth was the warmest place in the kitchen. But that’s not to say the fireplace didn’t have multiple functions, like later ‘appliances.’ The one in ours was used for cooking, roasting, and heating. The cauldron hanging from the pothook was most likely made of bell-metal (an alloy of copper and tin). Skillets, posnets, and frying pans were made of wrought iron.

The coverable wooden trough on the other side of the hearth was for kneading and proving dough. Tucked behind the firewood rack, you can see the handles of utensils such as a skimmer and a frying pan. The frying pan was common in all kitchens, according to Pennell – the long handle would have protected users from the high flame. Inspired? We have good news: Installing a wood stove costs between $860 and $3,550.”