Abendroth Brothers of New York may have created this cast iron toy stove for their Southern market if the name "Cotton Plant" embossed on the hearth plate is any clue. It was advertised as a toy model of the company's full-size stove and was able "to be operated as a full-grown stove." One of the problems facing early stove makers was simply how to keep the smoke from the room. E.A. Hill's 1854 patent 10-inch tall model, named simply "Smoke Consuming Stove," proposed one such system. An example of a very rare early cast iron toy stove named "Mechanic" is labeled P&G Brecher L.K. Pat'd 1860 and features an unusual three-level step-style stove with unusual wraparound hearth, measures 6-inches x 12-inches. A rare and intriguing stove with circular top designed to rotate which would allow warming as well as cooking, and with front-opening wood-burning oven and wide hearth. The stove was patented by Henry M Stanley of Poultney Vermont in 1832. The stove originally stood taller (two front legs missing) and it is uncertain if this was made as a salesman's sample or as a specially commissioned toy. 108 FALL 2019