ANTIQUE SEARS No. 100 (?) RATCHET COAL FORGE
 
These style portable coal forges were commonly used by Farriers, Riveters & farmers in there day
 
Sears, Roebuck & Co. played a significant role in the democratization of blacksmithing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by offering affordable, portable coal forges, primarily through their mail-order catalogues. These forges, often branded under names like Craftsman, Dunlap, or simply as Sears Roebuck models, were aimed at farmers, ranchers, and rural homeowners for repairing tools and shoeing horses
 
Sears began featuring portable forges in their catalogues as early as the 1890s and continued through the 1910s and beyond
 
The primary target market for these forges was rural, catering to farmers who needed to fix agricultural equipment without travelling to a distant town blacksmith
 
While sold by Sears, these forges were rarely manufactured by them. They were contracted out to major companies, with Champion Blower and Forge Company, Buffalo Forge, and Canedy-Otto being the likely manufacturers
 
Brand: Sears (? – it also looks very similar to a Western Chief No. 154 or Chicago No 154 too)
 
Circa 1902–1920s (?)
 
Hearth / Pot: 560mm (22 inches)
 
Lever / Ratchet Action –because of the "ratcheting" action!
 
Tripod base
 
Marked – ‘No 100’ on bottom of cast iron hearth / pot
 
Has been beautifully restored complete with refractory
 
In great condition for its age. Works but slips - Dog clutch needs new springs. Wear consistent with age & use
 
A great piece of history which can be used for blacksmithing projects and/or could be ornamental!
 
FREIGHT / SHIPPING TO BE CONFIRMED