[TheForge] coal stoves

[Cindy and James]

Someone mentioned cooking with charcoal in one of the last series of 
mails.  I have seen coal stoves, the kitchen of the Cornelius Vanderbilt 
home in Newport RI has 3 stove/ovens, coal, wood and gas, but have no 
idea how they are used.  I presume the food has to be isolated from the 
food, unlike gas or wood.  Does anyone have any idea or experience?  I'm 
not planning on using one, just curious.
James