Wash copper

The first is built into a brickwork furnace and was found in older houses.

The second was the free-standing or portable type, it had an enamelled metal exterior that supported the inner can or copper.

The bottom part was adapted to hold a gas burner, a high pressure oil or an ordinary wood or coal fire.

Superior models could have a drawing-off tap, and a steam-escape pipe that led into the flue.

Clothes were agitated within the copper with a washing dolly, a vertical stick with either a metal cone or short wooden legs on it.