Summary

Black and white photograph of an electric kettle and an immersion heater produced by Hecla Electrics, at their South Yarra factory in Melbourne in the 1930s.

The kettle is a copper 240 volt AC electric model with enamel handle, lid and removable saucepan for heating food. It was marketed as the 'Special Kettle and Food Warmer'. The food warming saucepan rests beneath the enamel handle; when the food warmer is removed the saucepan lid fits the electric kettle.The immersion heater is finished in polished nickel plate and was advertised as being extremely economical in operation.

This photograph is from an album containing 255 black and white photographs depicting electrical appliances, showroom displays, factory interiors and advertising material relating to Hecla Electrics Pty Ltd. It is part of the Hecla collection of photographs, documents, products, manuals and promotional materials from the Hecla Electrics factories in Melbourne. This collection dates from the late 19th century to the late 20th century and was acquired in 2004 from the current owner of the Hecla Electrics brand.

Hecla Electrics manufactured and distributed a wide range of domestic and commercial electric appliances products to Australasia, such as heaters, kettles, toasters, stoves and water heaters. Its client base included households, commercial businesses such as cafés, hospitals and offices, as well as the military. The company promoted its goods through advertisements in home magazines and displays in shop windows, home shows and the 1935 All-Electricity Exhibition. Hecla Electrics became a household name in Melbourne during the 1920s and remained a popular Australian brand until the late 20th century.'

Description of Content

Photograph of a an immersion water heater with a combined copper electrical kettle and food warmer on its left against a neutral background. The kettle's long single arc spout is facing left and the electric plug connection is set low near the base.

Physical Description

Black and white photograph with white border, adhered with sticky tape on each corner to a buff paper backing.

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