CCG – Due to their resilience, adaptability, and capacity to maintain temperature, cast iron skillets have been an international kitchen fixture for centuries. These renowned culinary vessels have the potential to endure for generations, even as they amass a substantial patina and historical significance.
The 8 Oldest Cast Iron Skillets
1. Skillet of Wagner Ware’s “Sidney-O-“
The “Sidney -O-” skillet by Wagner Ware, which dates back to the late 19th century, is among the earliest cast iron skillets still in use.
This griddle, which is produced by the Wagner Manufacturing Company in Sidney, Ohio, has the “Sidney -O-” mark affixed to the underside. Consistently coveted by collectors and culinary aficionados, the Wagner Ware skillet is distinguished by its robust construction and sleek cooking surface.
2. “Erie” Griswold Skillet
Another iconic item of cast iron cookware from the late 19th century, the Griswold “Erie” skillet was manufactured in Erie, Pennsylvania, by the Griswold Manufacturing Company.
The Griswold “Erie” skillet has garnered significant interest from cast iron aficionados as a result of its extraordinary heat retention and renowned craftsmanship. Early cast iron cookware continues to be regarded as an exemplar of quality and artistry, as evidenced by its distinctive logo and sleek cooking surface.
3. “Blacklock” Lodge Skillet
When Joseph Lodge established the Blacklock Foundry in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, in the late 1800s, the Lodge “Blacklock” skillet was first produced.
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While the Blacklock skillet may not be as widely recognized as other brands, it is widely esteemed for its exceptional craftsmanship and long-lasting nature. The Lodge “Blacklock” skillet, renowned for its unique heat ring and sleek heating surface, continues to be esteemed in numerous contemporary kitchens.
4. The most favored Skillet from Piqua Ware
The skillet by Favorite Piqua Ware, manufactured in Piqua, Ohio, by the Favorite Stove and Range Company, is an early example of American-made cast iron cookware.
Established in the late 19th century, this skillet exhibits a unique aesthetic and robust fabrication that has withstood the trials of time. The Classic Piqua Ware Skillet continues to be favored by both collectors and culinary aficionados due to its sleek cooking surface and timeless design.
5. Red Mountain Skillet (BSR)
The Birmingham Stove and Range Company, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is the manufacturer of the BSR Red Mountain griddle, a renowned classic among cast iron cookware.
This skillet, which dates back to the early to mid-20th century, has a seasoned cooking surface that is silky smooth and bears the Red Mountain logo on the underside. The BSR Red Mountain skillet is a multipurpose appliance that enhances any culinary space due to its resilient construction and uniform heat dissemination.
6. Skillet of Wapak Indian Head
An early instance of cast iron cookware manufactured in the United States is the Wapak Indian Head skillet, which was produced by the Wapak Hollow Ware Company in Wapakoneta, Ohio.
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This griddle, which originated in the late 19th century, is distinguished by its bottom bearing an Indian head logo and its seasoned, flawless cooking surface. In the realm of cast iron cookware, the Wapak Indian Head griddle is an enduring classic due to its robust construction and uniform heat distribution.
7. The Sidney Hollow Skillet of Ware
The skillet, manufactured by the Sidney Hollow Ware Company located in Sidney, Ohio, represents an early instance of cast iron cookware crafted in the United States.
Established in the late 19th century, this skillet exhibits a unique aesthetic and robust fabrication that has withstood the trials of time. The Sidney Hollow Ware skillet continues to be favored by both collectors and culinary aficionados due to its traditional design and sleek cooking surface.
8. The Skillet Made of Superior Cast Iron
From the late 19th century, the Excelsior cast iron skillet has been a scarce and highly coveted item of cookware. Produced by an unidentified manufacturer, the Excelsior skillet has earned its position in the pantheon of classic cast iron cookware due to its distinctive design and sturdy construction.
Preserved by both collectors and culinary aficionados, the Excelsior skillet is distinguished by its enduring design and polished cooking surface.
Summary
In summary, these eight skillets crafted from cast iron symbolize an earlier period of remarkable American ingenuity and skill. Each item conveys a narrative of excellence, longevity, and heritage, starting with the renowned Wagner Ware “Sidney -O-” skillet and culminating in the uncommon Excelsior skillet.
These enduring cookware items persist as treasured heirlooms in kitchens across the globe, regardless of whether they were acquired in antique shops or handed down through generations.
