What is pot belly stove?

A pot-belly stove is a type of wood-burning stove that was commonly used in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. These stoves were typically made of cast iron and featured a round, bulging shape that gave them their distinctive name.

Pot-belly stoves were popular because they were relatively compact and efficient at heating small to medium-sized rooms. They were often used in homes, schools, and other buildings where a central heating system was not practical or affordable.

To operate a pot-belly stove, wood or coal would be loaded into the firebox through a front door, and the stove would be lit using kindling. The stove's draft controls would then be adjusted to regulate the intensity of the fire and the amount of heat produced.

Despite their efficiency and charm, pot-belly stoves fell out of favor as more modern heating options became available. However, they are still used in some older homes, historic buildings, and as decorative pieces in rustic or vintage-themed spaces.