What advance in heating and cooking occurred in antebellum America?

In antebellum America, the introduction of cast-iron stoves marked a significant advance in heating and cooking technology. These stoves provided more efficient and controllable heat compared to traditional open fireplaces, allowing for better temperature regulation and reducing the risk of house fires. They also enabled indoor cooking year-round, improving the convenience and safety of meal preparation. This innovation reflected broader trends in industrialization and domesticity during the period.