1800's Wrought Iron Andirons Pair Fireplace Set - Barnard's Inn

Description

An outstanding full antique Andiron set, complete with the connecting rod bar, which mounts to the fronts of the two … more An outstanding full antique Andiron set, complete with the connecting rod bar, which mounts to the fronts of the two Andirons
Remarkable craftsmanship throughout, all hand hammered wrought iron
Globular Spiral finials on all pieces, ball-form ends
Ornate feet
All complete and fully original, some black paint is retained
American, 19th century
This Andiron Set came from a large collection of objects we came upon that were used in the historic early American Barnard's Inn Tavern and Farmhouse (1776) on Route 1 in Kennebunk, York County, Maine. The tavern was built in 1776 by one of Maine’s first mail carriers, Mr. Joseph Barnard. It operated as a hostel inn until his death in 1817, later run by his wife until 1823. The historic Tavern has had guests as distinguished as Marquis de Lafayette and William Jennings Bryan. It is one of the oldest buildings in the town and is still standing today - with a rich historical heritage. After 1823, it was purchased by the Curtis family and operated as a farmhouse during the Civil War. It has been saved from a fire by a Dr. Johnson and used as a doctor's office for the latter part of the 20th century. Over time, the landmark building has accumulated many antiques, and some of these items are among those that were used during it's Tavern period (1776-1823). The tavern farmhouse and all contents were auctioned off in 2015. A wealthy Florida family, whose son lives in Maine, purchased these lots, and they later arrived in our possession
At some point of its existence the main building did have as many as 17 fireplaces. Most of them are still retained today
Measurements: Approx.
Andirons: 25" x 16" overall, 21.5" high
Connecting rod: 45" long, 4.25" widest diameter
Altogether, the three pieces weigh just under 30 lbs.
Condition: Very Good overall. Please see photos below. All original and complete. Superb patina and surface oxidation, indicative of the great age less