For centuries, the hearth has been the heart of the home — a place for warmth, sustenance, and gathering. But beyond the fire itself, the hardware that supports and surrounds the fireplace tells a rich story of craftsmanship, cultural evolution, and architectural style. From medieval castles to today's rustic mountain lodges, fireplace hardware has evolved dramatically — while still retaining its essential purpose: form and function in harmony.

Medieval Origins: Where Ironwork Met Necessity

In medieval Europe, the hearth was a necessity for survival. Central open fires, often built in large stone hearths, provided heat, light, and a place to cook. Fireplace hardware like andirons, firebacks, chimney cranes, and grates were forged by blacksmiths to serve specific functional needs — raising logs for air circulation, holding pots over flames, or protecting stonework from smoke.

These early pieces were hand-forged from wrought iron and often bore intricate scrollwork, family crests, or religious symbols — reflecting the artisan’s skill and the household’s social status. You can find examples of these historic hearth tools in museum collections like the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Fun Fact: The word "andirons" is derived from the Old French "andier," referring to the iron supports used to hold burning logs.

Colonial America: Function First, Then Style

As settlers established homes in the American colonies, fireplace hardware remained essential. Colonial blacksmiths — often the only metalworkers in town — were responsible for crafting:

• Fireplace grates

• Poker and shovel sets

• Swing-out cranes for cooking

• Mantle brackets and supports

While much of the hardware was utilitarian, early American craftsmen began incorporating simple embellishments that reflected regional styles — from Federalist scrolls to Shaker minimalism. Hardware was often passed down between generations or moved from one homestead to another.

Victorian & Industrial Eras: The Rise of Decorative Ironwork

By the 19th century, cast iron became more widely available due to industrial advances. Fireplace hardware shifted from pure function to a status symbol in urban homes. Ornate cast-iron mantels, elaborate tool sets, and even coal scuttles became decorative focal points. Firebacks often depicted neoclassical scenes or family mottos.

This era also saw the rise of mantle straps, corbels, and shelves with intricate iron detailing — precursors to many of the mantel straps and floating shelves available today at Old West Iron.

Modern Revival: Rustic, Functional & Built to Last

In today’s homes — especially cabin, lodge, or homestead style homes — fireplace hardware is experiencing a revival. Homeowners are moving away from disposable decor and returning to heritage materials that last: hand-forged wrought iron, natural finishes, and traditional craftsmanship.

Modern fireplace accessories often blend the aesthetic of centuries past with the durability of modern techniques. Think:

• Hand-hammered mantel straps that add strength and style

• Custom fireplace accessories like pokers and brooms

• Wrought-iron mantels and floating shelves that serve as functional statement pieces

“There’s something sacred about the fireplace,” says Lisa Kinzie, founder of Old West Iron. “It’s the center of the home — and the ironwork around it should be as timeless as the traditions you build there.”

Bringing History into Your Home

At Old West Iron, we believe that fireplace hardware should do more than just serve a function — it should tell a story. That’s why our collections are inspired by centuries of ironwork tradition, built by hand, and made to last.

Whether you’re restoring a colonial hearth or building a cozy modern cabin, our hand-forged fireplace hardware offers both authentic style and lasting strength.

Browse our collections:

• Fireplace Accessories

• Mantels & Floating Shelves

• Mantel Straps & Corbels

Written by the Old West Iron Forge Team
Crafting authentic American ironwork from our Idaho forge since 2011.
Experience-backed, veteran-built, and proudly Made in the USA.