Hello,

I posted this in other metals forums however didn’t get any replies.

I recently came into possession of an old pre-1900’s base burner stove. It was left to my girlfriend, from her father who had passed away several years ago. Theses stoves are new to me; however, I did do an extensive amount of research on it that I will provide below. Any additional information you can provide would be greatly appreciated as I am at a standstill.

I’ve attached pictures and as you can see the stove is in incredible shape (I can get more pictures If needed). Everything seems to be in working order and nothing appears to be broken. I am unsure if it was refurbished but all the parts look original to me. The stove is stamped on the back with “Orr, Painter Co, Reading PA” and on the front with “No. GOLDEN SUNSHINE 115”

From researching over the internet here is all I can find.

Orr, Painter & Co was founded in 1863 but the company became incorporated as “The Reading Stove Works, Orr, Painter & Co.” in 1886 and then in 2002 the company introduced BlueStar line of stoves and that’s why I contacted them first.

From an article in the “The Metal Worker” dated June 24, 1893 –(attached) The Reading Stove Works, Orr, Painter & Co. of Reading PA announces their new lines “among their additions are a new first class circulating base burners and double heater under the name Golden Sunshine”

I was told that the No. 115 represents the size of the stove. Meaning 15” inside diameter.

In a 1902-1903 The Reading Stove Works, Orr, Painter & Co. catalog I found (attached) that similar “Sunshine 215” stove in this size sold for around USD 56.50. The catalog also goes on to state “The Golden Sunshine and Brilliant Sunshine remain the same in price, notwithstanding the improvements which have been added”. This has me to believe that my model also sold for around USD 56.50.

I am not really sure if the red and white glass/plastic originally came with the stove or if it was added after. If it originally came with the stove, then I would assume it would be mica glass. Also, the light bulbs seen inside were added obviously later for decorative purposes.

It would be greatly appreciated if you could point me in any direction to further my research (I would really love to find this model/year catalog) or if you have any information or knowledge on this item that would be great. I know she plans to sell it in the near future and I want to help her consider her options as it seems to be in truly outstanding condition with amazing colors for its age. If you have any available information on where/how to sell such a large that would also be very helpful.

Thank you
James