This is an Antique Cast Iron Manhole Cistern Cover (or well) manufactured by the historic Hastings Foundry & Iron Works out of Hastings, Nebraska. The lid features a geometric, 12-point starburst or diamond-rayed pattern embossed around the center. There is a small, recessed metal ring or loop sits directly in the center to allow the heavy lid to be hooked and pulled open. The iron rim reads: Hastings Foundry Co. & Iron Works, Hastings, Nebr. Measures 22″ Diameter.
Covers of this style were typically placed over backyard water cisterns, coal chutes, or shallow access pits. Today, these lids are highly collectible regional artifacts often repurposed as decorative garden stepping stones or rustic wall hangings.
