"Summer Cover"

We regularly receive historic artifacts from donors who are committed to preserving Lawrence County history, and we are grateful for their generosity. Last week, we welcomed this item into our collection; it originally came from the Martin Funeral Home in St. Francisville.

This fireplace cover, often referred to as a “summer cover,” was used to seal fireplace openings during the warmer months when the fireplace was not in use. Made of durable, heat-resistant cast iron, it likely dates to the Victorian era (mid- to late 1800s). The cover features an ornate high-relief scene that commonly depicts mythological figures such as Diana the Huntress.