04/27/2026
I lived in Baltimore for many years and never realized the iron stars on the historic row homes had such an important purpose. A cool lesson in history from our clients at Zeskind's Hardware and Millwork!
The Baltimore-Annapolis area is brimming with historic brick homes featuring star anchors on the exterior. You might be surprised to know these stars are more than just decorative. There is a 6' or longer threaded rod placed through the star, the brick wall, and multiple floor joists inside the home. The cast iron star uses the strength of the floor joists inside the home to hold back a sagging or compromised brick wall to preserve its structural integrity and prevent it from buckling. If you see these, itās a sign the building is likely over 100 years old and built to last, just like our company!
Our star moulds come from the original Swiss Foundry on Gilmor St. in Southwest Baltimore, and we have them custom cast in bulk by a local iron foundry.
Zeskind's Hardware and Millwork is one of the only businesses with access to REAL structural cast iron star anchors for historic brick homes, along with all the threaded rods, nuts and washers needed for the system. Don't be fooled buying decorative steel versions which are not strong enough for the application.
Contact us to learn more about how we can help you with cast iron stars, and custom windows and doors for your historic project.
