Within Tehran, vendors operated either independently or as part of small family businesses. They transported logs to neighborhoods, chopped them on-site, and sold them directly to households. The sound of axes striking wood echoed through alleyways, especially in colder months. For many residents, this sound was as much a part of winter as falling snow or steaming tea.
Firewood vendors were skilled laborers. They knew how to select the right type of wood for different purposes—hardwood for long-lasting heat, softer wood for quick ignition. They also understood seasonal price fluctuations and customer needs. Some specialized in serving bathhouses, bakeries, or public kitchens, while others focused on residential customers.
Neighborhood Presence and Social Interaction
The relationship between firewood vendors and residents was often personal and long-standing. Many families relied on the same vendor year after year, building trust over time. Credit arrangements were common, particularly among lower-income households, where payment might be delayed until wages were received.
