This hand-hammered steel Arts & Crafts "Cape Cod" fire starter tankard includes its original soapstone wand. Filled with lamp oil, it was used to start a woodstove or fireplace easily and with a minimum of kindling. Once soaked and lighted, the soapstone "egg" would burn for 10-15 minutes, usually enough time to ignite the firewood. Finished with a brass hinge and signed "Howes" (Boston, 1870-1930). (tankard: 6.5" x 5" - wand: 12.5" x 2.25") da12687c
c. 1900 - 1910's
