Restoring an Antique Potbelly Stove: The Armada Windsor No. 91-18 and the Timeless Charm of Wood-Burning Stoves
Wood-burning stoves have been a reliable source of heat for centuries, with various styles designed for different purposes. In our latest YouTube video, we take on the restoration of an antique Armada Windsor No. 91-18 Potbelly Stove, bringing it back to life as a functional and beautiful piece of history. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of wood-burning stoves, the unique benefits of the potbelly stove, and the fascinating history of the Armada Windsor model.
Types of Wood-Burning Stoves
Wood stoves come in many designs, each with specific functions and efficiencies. Here’s a look at some common types:
🔥 Potbelly Stoves – Traditionally used in railroad stations, general stores, and homes, these cast-iron stoves are compact, radiate strong heat, and can burn both wood and coal. 🔥 Box Stoves – A simpler design with a rectangular shape, these stoves are excellent for steady heating and often feature flat surfaces for cooking. 🔥 Franklin Stoves – Designed by Benjamin Franklin, these stoves are more open in design and resemble a fireplace, offering a more aesthetic appeal with less efficiency. 🔥 Airtight Stoves – Built for modern use, these stoves have sealed combustion chambers, allowing for better heat control and longer burn times. 🔥 Cook Stoves – Featuring ovens and stovetops, these are designed for both heating and cooking, commonly found in early homesteads.
While each type of stove has its advantages, the potbelly stove remains a classic due to its versatility and simple yet effective design.
Benefits of the Potbelly Stove
The potbelly stove has been a staple in both urban and rural settings for over a century, and for good reason. Here’s why it remains a beloved heating option:
✅ Efficient Heat Radiation – Made of thick cast iron, these stoves distribute heat evenly and maintain warmth for extended periods. ✅ Compact and Versatile – Their small footprint makes them ideal for cabins, workshops, and even train cars, historically. ✅ Wood & Coal Compatible – Unlike some modern stoves, potbelly stoves are designed to burn both wood and coal, offering fuel flexibility. ✅ Classic, Timeless Design – Beyond functionality, these stoves serve as beautiful, nostalgic pieces that add character to any space. ✅ Durable and Long-Lasting – Many antique models, like the Armada Windsor No. 91-18, are still fully functional after a century.
The History of the Armada Windsor No. 91-18
The Armada Windsor No. 91-18 is a classic cast-iron potbelly stove, originally manufactured in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These stoves were commonly found in train stations, country stores, and homes, serving as reliable sources of heat during harsh winters. Their ornate designs and durable construction made them both practical and decorative.
Many Armada Windsor stoves were built with intricate details, embossed branding, and sturdy materials that have allowed them to withstand the test of time. Restoring one of these beauties brings history back to life, making it a functional conversation piece for any home or homestead.
Our Restoration Process
Restoring an antique potbelly stove requires patience, care, and the right materials. Here’s how we brought the Armada Windsor No. 91-18 back to life:
🛠️ Cleaning and Removing Rust – We carefully removed layers of rust and old paint using wire brushes and rust removers. 🔥 Repairing and Re-Sealing – Any cracks or gaps were sealed to ensure safe and efficient operation. 🖤 Repainting with High-Temp Paint – A fresh coat of heat-resistant paint helped preserve the cast iron and restore its original look. 🏡 Reassembling and Testing – Once restored, we fired it up to ensure it was fully functional and ready to provide warmth once again.
The result? A fully restored, functional piece of history that now sits proudly in our homestead.
Watch the Full Restoration on YouTube
If you love antique restoration, homesteading, and classic wood stoves, check out our latest YouTube video where we bring the Armada Windsor No. 91-18 Potbelly Stove back to its former glory.
Bringing old tools and appliances back to life is one of the most rewarding parts of homesteading. If you’re considering using a potbelly stove in your home or cabin, we highly recommend it for its charm, efficiency, and lasting durability.
Stay tuned for more homesteading projects, and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more restoration videos, off-grid living tips, and product reviews!