Fireplace Mantels

“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.”
– Clement Clarke Moore

Childhood memories of Christmas stockings hung in anticipation of Santa’s visit often swirl in our heads this time of year. The fireplace mantel is part and parcel of the architectural design of the home.

A summary of styles:

Victorian spindles on an oak over-mantel

Craftsman beveled mirror and ochre art tiles

Mission or Spanish black iron sconces

Prairie Roman-brick wall with stone header

Tudor an arch

Colonial Revival white paint and swags

How jolting it is to go into an old home and see a fireplace or wood-burning stove that is not compatible with the architectural style of the home.

Old fireplaces are often ripped out or covered up with metal, wood, tile, and God-knows-what to give an “updated look.” Some fireplaces have been completely covered with wallboard to increase the wall space in a home.

If that is the case in your old house, take heart. Architectural salvage stores are great sources for replacement fireplaces and mantels.

If you are shopping for a fireplace insert, keep architectural style in mind and shop at stores whose personnel know what is appropriate for different architectural styles. If a salesperson says, “Oh, this will work in any old house,” leave the store immediately.

If the brick or tile has been painted or stuccoed (God-forbid), it can be removed with loving and knowledgeable care. As anyone knows who has ever watched the television show, “If Walls Could Talk,” you may remove part of a wall and find a beautiful old fireplace hidden behind it.

Elizabeth can be reached at historicgenie@aol.com