Hood’s 1867 Patented spade-shaped Soapstone Sad Iron  

Inventor: Phineas. B. Hood, of Milford, New Hampshire, Patent No. 61,198, dated January 15, 1867.  He designed two variations, a small, double point polisher, and this larger spade shape.

The name and the 1867 patent date are cast into the sides of the handle. The handle says "HOODS PATENT" and "PATD JAN 15 1867" embossed in the top sides of the handle. I believe this is a rare item to find especially in this condition and size. The cast iron is worn to a smooth and beautiful finish.  As expected for an iron nearly 160 years old, there are some very slight rough spots on the edges of the soapstone. There is no looseness between the stone and the cast iron. 

Hood's Patent Soapstone Sad Iron is a collectible 19th-century laundry tool featuring a soapstone body with a cast iron sole and handle. Known for its unique, often spade-shaped design, these irons were heated on stoves to smooth fabric.

Key Details

• Patent Date: January 15, 1867.
• Material: Soapstone body, with cast iron handle and sole.
• Shapes: Produced in various sizes, including spade shapes and smaller double-pointed, or "polisher," versions.
• Condition Issues: Often found with cracks or losses to the soapstone; however, this iron is as solid as they come. Truly a show-stopper in any serious collection.

These irons are distinct from, but contemporary to, the heavier "sad" (meaning solid) irons, which were used to press laundry before the invention of electric irons. 

From the Patent: “It is well known that steatite or soap-stone is a great heat-retaining substance, which renders it particularly adapted to purposes where frequent heating is not desirable. It is a substance considered almost infusible, and when heated it radiates its heat very slowly, except when in contact with metallic surfaces.”

INFORMATIONAL VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/EuG24fkXVN8