The first gas stoves was introduced in the 1880's. The first gas kitchen stoves was very large and very difficult to work with. One of the reasons was the “always on” feature of the original stoves. These stoves could be used to heat water for the rest of the home and also for heating of the home. The gas stoves did not reach popularity until around the 1880's. This delay was of coursed associated with the development of the natural gas system of the inter cities. After the network of natural gas pipelines was in place and almost all of the homes and building could receive the natural gas, the demand for the gas stoves increased. Many people liked the advantages of not having to gather or purchase and store the wood or coal that was being used at the time. It is estimated by the 1930's, the gas stoves was outnumbering the coal and wood stoves by two to one.

This development of the propane gas companies also increased the demand of the propane gas stoves outside of the larger cities. The propane companies to this day will deliver a large storage tank to the property. The tank is manufactured out of heavy steel. The exterior of the tank is painted with a special paint to help prevent rust and corrosion. The propane storage tank will have propane gas lines ran from the storage tank to the house or building to use the propane, As the propane is used and the tank is emptied, the propane company will deliver and more propane gas and refill the storage tank.

The antique gas stoves can be repaired or refinished and brought back to working conditions. It is important to find a reputable company to do this work. With the smaller gas stove parts that include such items as the clocks, timers, and the electrical and mechanical parts, it is important for the company to know what they are doing. The chrome pieces that you may have thought needed to be thrown away, in some cases can be re-chromed and look like new. The porcelain, which is a high temperature glaze, can also be removed and re done. Be careful of any company wanting to use paint or powder coat. Neither of these processes will not be able to withstand the high temperatures of the gas stove and is never to be considered a proper finish for the stoves.  So if you need to look for the parts for the antique gas stoves, find a company that specializes if this feild.