The Rumford fireplace was designed in the 1790s by Count Rumford, Sir Benjamin Thompson, born 1753 in Woburn, Massachusetts.

Rumford applied his knowledge of thermodynamics to the improvement of fireplaces. He made them smaller and shallower with widely angled covings so they would radiate better, and he streamlined the the chimney.

Rumford fireplaces are generally appreciated for their tall classic elegance and their heating efficiency.