We had some good guesses this time around for the identity
of the cold weather item we posted on Monday. Guesses included a holder that
could contain brandy while stored clandestinely
and a foot warmer. The foot
warmer guess was correct!
The foot warmer is used by placing very hot water inside of
the opening beneath the brass screw top. The hot water radiates through the
ceramic vessel, keeping it warm for extended periods of time and giving the
user radiant heat that they could place their feet on or next to. A person could wrap a blanket around their feet
and the foot warmer to help insulate even more, and women’s long skirts could
accomplish the same task.
They came in a variety of sizes and varied from utilitarian
in nature to quite decorative. This particular foot warmer features pretty
detailing on the handles:
(Photo courtesy of: Wikimedia Commons, Joe Mabel)
Ceramic foot warmers like this were popular in the 19th
and early 20th century. They were good not only for home use, but
for a variety of other situations which might feature cold or drafty rooms during
the winter such as a meeting house, or church.
A very popular use was for travel during the winter. Whether
in a carriage or a rail car, the user could keep their feet safe from the drafty
cold by carrying one of these along with them. The hot water could be replaced
as needed, making a long journey in winter a little bit more comfortable.
Come check out the foot warmer and other previous mystery
objects at the Museum along with our holiday decorations. Don’t forget that this weekend, Saturday
December 6th from 2-5pm is To Grandmother’s House We Go! The program will feature an afternoon of
holiday fun including storytelling, caroling, and graham cracker houses and
popcorn garland!
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