THE ‘cutest’ ORIGINAL KNOX Fluting Iron - 1870-1877

This fluter model was originally produced by the American Machine Company of Philadelphia, PA.  Later, the company was bought out by the North Brothers Manufacturing Company.  This table-top fluter, with built-in clamp to secure it to a table, is richly embossed “THE ORIGINAL KNOX” and includes its multiple patent dates: July 3, 1877 reissued, and April 26, 1870.  Under the base plate is the manufacturer: North Brothers Manufacturing Co. Philadelphia, PA. Much of the original gold-toned embellishments and character remain.

The brass fluted rollers contain the pleating pattern.  These produced tightly formed delicate pleats.  This fluter omes with its two original heating rods.  These iron rods were heated on a stove or fireplace, then inserted into the brass fluting barrels. Damp, pre-starched fabric was then clamped between the (heated) barrels and hand-cranked to crimp pleats on collars and ruffles on dress hemlines.   While two rods were needed to operate the device, another two would remain in the fireplace or stove to soak up heat, then later swapped out as the ones in use became cold.

While these fluter irons were commonly sold with a photo of Mrs. Susan R. Knox, a prolific inventor who first patented her fluter designs in 1866, these could be personalized with the photograph of whomever the owner wanted.  Your fluter portrays a darling, young 19^thcentury girl dressed for a special occasion.

Dimensions: 8" tall, 9" wide and 6" deep.

Fluting irons are one of the most interesting types of antique pressing irons ever invented. They were developed to crimp, ruffle and press pleats into starched fabric. Fluters were used for collars, cuffs and trim. These vintage tools were an invention that saw their heyday in America from the 1860's through to the turn of the century.

Collectively, this uncommon nearly 150-year old fluter is in fine operating condition, and will be a show stopper in any collection, or to showcase a piece of Americana from the post Civil War era.

If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask.

Thank you for viewing and good luck bidding.