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Date: | Mon, 8 Dec 2003 17:30:09 -0500 |
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On Dec 8, 2003, at 1:47 PM, Carol Serr wrote:
> .since I wouldn't think there would be such an elaborate contraption
> simply for hanging up towels.
This is one of those "smack yourself on the forehead and say Of course,
that's what it is" sorts of things.
> What sort of time period does it come from
They're still in use in other forms. Those I've seen have fixed arms,
usually 5-6 and are simply screw mounted where the dishes are washed,
usually to the kitchen window frame. There are smaller versions in
metal with semi-circular hook like ends used for hanging pot holders.
Their current replacement is the ubiquitous paper towel rack screwed to
the bottom of the cabinets by the air dry dish rack, or in some
circumstances set on a disk and rod arrangement in the kitchen.
> ...and what economic level
I've had thought any that didn't have maids.
> ...or perhaps what sort of setting....such as in a restaurant
> kitchen...as opposed to a home.
Definitely home use. Where the preference is not for air drying dishes,
and before plastic long handled brushes came into vogue, dish towels
were part and parcel of dishwashing. Large families need more towels.
Delicate items such as nylon stockings and lingerie that needed hand
washing were also hung there as mentioned.
> Or would 'regular' homes have used this simply for drying laundry
> indoors? (is that what you meant?).
Folding laundry racks get used for volumes of clothing when outside
clothes lines weren't available in inclement weather. The Brits have a
great item for drying clothes. It's a rectangular frame with half inch
dowels down the length set at intervals upon which the clothes are
arranged. The whole works is set on a rope and pulley system such that
it can be lowered to be loaded and then pulled up to get it out of the
way and to catch whatever heat is nearer the ceiling. Has anyone seen
them on this side of the pond?
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