Know the Styles. Choose the Right Hardware.

When it comes to historically inspired ironwork, Colonial and Early American styles are often used interchangeably — but they shouldn’t be. While both reflect craftsmanship rooted in America’s founding centuries, they each carry distinct influences, aesthetics, and design purposes.

Whether you're restoring a period home, building a new one with old-world charm, or simply shopping for hardware that matches your architectural goals, understanding the difference will help you make more authentic choices.

🔹 Colonial Iron Hardware: Bold, European Roots

Colonial style draws heavily from European traditions — especially British and Spanish ironwork — brought to North America in the 1600s and 1700s. The iron hardware of this era was robust, practical, and often handmade in local forges.

Defining Features:

• Straight or flared strap hinges with decorative ends

• Large hammered nails and clavos

• Forged latches, shutter dogs, and thumb levers

• Blacksmith textures and visible hammer marks

• Finishes in raw iron or hand-rubbed oils

Colonial hardware feels rugged, masculine, and utilitarian, with iron often used prominently as a visual statement — not just a hidden support.

🛠️ Explore Colonial Iron Hardware →

🔸 Early American Hardware: Simpler, Settler-Inspired

Early American style reflects the evolving needs of settlers in the post-Revolutionary period. From the late 1700s through the 1800s, iron hardware became slightly more streamlined and accessible, though it remained handcrafted in most rural communities.

Defining Features:

• Lighter, simpler hardware forms

• Fewer decorative flourishes

• Function over form

• Slimmer, tapered hinges and fasteners

• Often mixed with wood or other materials

Early American ironwork feels more homegrown — built by and for farmers, tradesmen, and growing families. It’s perfect for farmhouse builds, cabins, and historic restorations.

🧰 Shop Early American Hardware →

⚖️ Which Should You Choose?

It depends on your project’s goals:

Still unsure? We’re happy to help you match finishes, hinges, fasteners, or latches based on your home’s style.

📩 Contact Us or text 208-904-6820 with a photo of your space.

🖤 Heritage Hardware, Made in the USA

At Old West Iron, we recreate historical hardware using traditional blacksmithing methods — forging each piece by hand, right here in Idaho. Whether you need true-to-era Colonial straps or simple Early American hinges, we offer heirloom-quality hardware with soul, texture, and story.

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.