Coalholes definitions
| Word backwards | selohlaoc |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | coal-holes |
| Plural | The plural of the word "coalhole" is coalholes. |
| Total letters | 9 |
| Vogais (3) | o,a,e |
| Consonants (4) | c,l,h,s |
What are Coalholes?
Coalholes are a fascinating piece of urban history that can be found in many older cities around the world. These small metal plates, often seen on sidewalks or streets in front of buildings, were used to access underground coal storage areas. They were commonly used in the 19th and early 20th centuries when coal was the primary source of heating for homes and buildings.
Function
The main function of coalholes was to provide a convenient way to deliver coal directly into a building's storage area. Typically located on the pavement outside a property, these metal plates covered a hole that led to a coal chute. This allowed coal deliveries to be made easily and efficiently without the need to carry the heavy fuel through the building itself.
Design
Coalholes are usually made of cast iron, a durable material that could withstand the weight of both the coal deliveries and the foot traffic above. They often featured intricate designs, with some even bearing the name or logo of the coal merchant who supplied the property. This added a touch of elegance to the otherwise mundane task of coal delivery.
Legacy
While coalholes are no longer in use for their original purpose, many still remain as a reminder of a bygone era. Some have been preserved for their historical value, while others have been repurposed for modern utilities such as electrical or plumbing access points. Despite their practical function being obsolete, coalholes continue to be a quirky and charming feature of many city streets.
Coalholes Examples
- The old building had coalholes in front for storing fuel.
- The coalholes in the sidewalk were covered with metal plates.
- Workers had to shovel coal into the coalholes to keep the furnace running.
- During winter, the coalholes were kept tightly closed to prevent snow from getting in.
- The coalholes were essential for providing heat to the entire building.
- Over time, the coalholes became rusty and needed to be replaced.
- Children would sometimes play near the coalholes, but were told to stay away for safety reasons.
- Some old houses still have visible coalholes near their entrances.
- The coalholes were a common sight in industrial areas during the 19th century.
- Residents would occasionally drop small items into the coalholes by accident.