A questioner said:
Cast iron rods found under floorboards of home built in 1853. What are they used for?
Owner said: Only thing giving me pause for them being paddles for a mortar mixer or the like, is their size. They’d need to be spun up by some sort of engine, not by hand I’d assume as most craftsman at the time would be using to mix mortar. And even if used within the last 100 years of the homes brick patch repair, that would be a big machine for a smaller section of foundation. And while this home was contemporarily very expensive, I don’t see them bringing in that size of machinery for that type of work.
Some of the people opinions on it:
americathon said:
They are probably Cast Iron Shaker Rocker Grates for a coal stove or furnace.
Uniqueacadia said:
Definitely shaker grates. Burning coal results in ash and “clinker” (glassified rock and sand that was in with the coal). That waste material must be shaken out of the fire box periodically because it will become insulating, so you don’t get the full benefit of the burning coal. The wouldn’t have rotated all the way, they would have just been rocked (shaken) back and forth. The gears were likely because they had one handle to shake them both together.
waste_traffic said:
Shaker grates for a coal stove or furnace.
jibaro said:
Grates for an old coal burning furnace.
rocketmnb said:
Coal sifters from a cook stove
goatgoatington said:
looks like homemade weapons, like the shaker grates from americathon with a handle and hilt
distinctrole said:
Shaker grate for coal stove or furnace. I would love to find a set to add to the next stove I build.
yougottaknowwhento said:
Knew as soon as I saw it….my job as a kid to put the handle on and crank down the burn ash to clean out. Always waiting for a clinker to bind it up and rip my 10yr old shoulder out of place!
imaginaryevents said:
Adjustable floor support jacks?
olgusncuss said:
Butter churn agitator?
What do you think? Let us know in the comment!
Read Also: Does anyone know what this is? It is over the basement door in our 1890’s home.
Home renovations and restorations often bring unexpected discoveries, and few are as intriguing as finding cast iron rods beneath the floorboards of a historic home. If you’ve encountered these robust and seemingly enigmatic rods in a house built in 1853, you might be wondering about their purpose. These cast iron rods, concealed for more than a century, are not random remnants but rather integral components of the architectural integrity and function of the home.
Structural Reinforcement
One of the primary uses of cast iron rods in 19th-century homes was structural reinforcement. In the mid-1800s, building technology was evolving, and architects and builders were exploring new materials and methods to improve the durability and stability of structures. Cast iron, known for its strength and rigidity, became a popular choice for reinforcing buildings.
In homes built during this period, cast iron rods were often used to reinforce wooden beams and joists. By embedding these rods under the floorboards, builders could enhance the load-bearing capacity of floors, making them more robust and less prone to sagging or collapsing. This was particularly important in larger homes or those with multiple stories, where the structural demands were greater.
Stabilizing Walls
Another critical application of cast iron rods was in stabilizing walls. In some historical homes, these rods were strategically placed to counteract the lateral forces that could cause walls to bow or crack over time. This technique, known as “tie rod” construction, involved running the rods through the width of the house and securing them with plates on the exterior walls. The rods acted as tension members, holding the walls together and preventing outward bulging.
Preventing Settlement
In addition to providing reinforcement, cast iron rods also played a role in mitigating the effects of settlement. Over time, the foundation of a house can shift and settle, leading to uneven floors and structural stress. The inclusion of cast iron rods helped distribute the weight more evenly and maintained the alignment of key structural components, reducing the impact of minor settlement and extending the lifespan of the building.
Fire Protection
Another interesting aspect of cast iron’s use in 19th-century construction was its fire-resistant properties. Unlike wood, cast iron does not burn, making it a safer choice for certain structural elements. In the event of a fire, cast iron rods would remain intact, providing some degree of structural support and potentially giving occupants more time to evacuate. This fire-resistant characteristic was a significant consideration in an era when urban fires were a common and devastating threat.
Modern-Day Implications
For modern homeowners and renovators, discovering cast iron rods under the floorboards can provide valuable insights into the historical construction methods and the original intent of the builders. Here are a few steps you might consider if you find such rods in your home:
Consult a Structural Engineer: Before making any changes, it’s wise to consult with a structural engineer who can assess the condition of the rods and the overall integrity of your home. They can advise on whether the rods are still performing their intended function or if additional reinforcement is needed.
Preservation: If you aim to preserve the historical aspects of your home, maintaining these cast iron rods can be crucial. They are a part of the home’s original design and contribute to its architectural authenticity.
Documentation: Documenting the presence and condition of these rods can be valuable for historical records and future renovations. Detailed records can help future homeowners and contractors understand the building’s history and construction methods.
Safety Considerations: Ensure that any work involving these rods, especially if they need to be removed or replaced, is done with care to avoid compromising the structural integrity of the home.
Conclusion
The cast iron rods found under the floorboards of an 1853 home are more than just historical curiosities; they are a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of 19th-century builders. Serving as structural reinforcements, wall stabilizers, settlement mitigators, and even fire protectors, these rods played a vital role in the longevity and resilience of the home. As you uncover these hidden elements, you gain not only a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship of the past but also an opportunity to preserve and honor the historical legacy of your home.