Electric iron, 1939

Made by Chicago Flexible Shaft Company, Elgin, IL
Sunbeam model
Chromium-plated metal, plastic

As electrical service spread, utility companies promoted and even handled the sales of popular electric appliances, especially the iron. In 1912 the electric iron was a "hot item," especially since its temperature was not effectively controlled until the adjustable automatic thermostat was perfected in 1927. Helen Blake of Kankakee, Illinois, received this Sunbeam as a wedding present in 1939. It has adjustable dials marked "silk, wool, cotton, linen" for temperatures appropriate to those fabrics.

Gift of Helen Guimond Blake, Kankakee, IL (1990.14.1)

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© Illinois State Museum 31-Dec-96