original late 19th century american antique victorian era gas grille or grate designed and fabricated by the dawson brothers, chicago, il. the metallic gold enameled grate retains the unusually designed detachable "spider web" grate or guard used to partially conceal the gas jets. the protruding hood, flanking pilasters and ash grate are all intact. the "air mixer" valve dial is deeply grooved with centrally located raised button. the pressed and folded sheet metal rear enclosure is in great shape, considering age. salvaged from a chicago graystone constructed in the 1890's. the cast iron components are free from cracks or breaks. the extant building once containing the dawson brothers factory and offices is located at 517-519 n. halsted street just west of downtown chicago. the red brick factory was constructed in 1888 and designed by architect julius zittel. the five-story building has a cast iron facade on its first floor, along with decorative tie rods and a carved limestone name plaque with date. the dawson brothers used the factory to fabricate highly specialized ornamental fireplace mantels and grates; the building also served as the company's showroom and offices. a six-story addition was added to the building in 1901, which mainly served as a storage and shipping area. the dawson brothers conducted business at the factory until 1929. the building was added to the national register of historic places on february 14, 1985. measures approximately 26 1/4 x 30 1/2 inches.