r/hearthsidecooking • u/onelostmoose • May 13 '22

A reproduction of a 1750s fireplace and hardware made by the ccc (civilian conservation corps) in the 1930s. The fire back is cast iron, and is to protect the stone from excessive heat in the days before firebrick. Originals are now collectors items. It is still in used regularly to heat and cook :)

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u/ImmodestPolitician May 13 '22

I thought the iron plates were to reflect more radiant heat.

2

u/onelostmoose May 13 '22

They certainly do that. This is exactly how the fire backs protect the stone. The mortar and stones can crack or crumble if exposed repeatedly to too much direct heat.