How to Identify the Age of Your Old Cast Iron Skillet

In today’s post, we’re going to explore how to identify the age of your old cast iron skillet. Whether it’s a flea market find or an inheritance from your grandmother’s kitchen, understanding its origin can add another layer to the story of your home. So, let’s explore together how to trace the lineage of these beloved kitchen staples, ensuring that their legacy endures as they continue to be a part of our family’s fabric.

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How to tell how old a cast-iron pan is?

Figuring out the age of cast-iron cookware is like uncovering a little piece of history right in your kitchen. It’s all about the details – the smoothness of the surface, the style of the handle, and those distinctive marks that tell a story of tradition and time-tested quality. Whether it’s a family treasure or a lucky find from a yard sale, each skillet has its own tale. So grab your pan, and let’s try and identify the age of your old cast iron skillet and uncover the secrets it holds.

Surface

The surface of the pan is like a canvas, with each mark and texture telling a part of its story. These details are clues that can help decode the age of these venerable kitchen tools.

In the world of cast iron, the texture of the skillet’s cooking surface can be remarkably telling. Older skillets, particularly those crafted before the 1950s, were polished after casting, resulting in a surface that’s smooth to the touch. This was when the finishing process was as much about function as it was about form; a smooth, nonstick surface was easier to clean.

As manufacturing processes changed and became more cost-focused, this step was often omitted, leaving the skillets with a pebbled texture that’s a telltale sign of a more modern era. These newer skillets, while still functional, lack the hand-finished touch that characterizes their ancestors.

So, when you run your fingers across the surface of a cast iron skillet, pay attention to what it tells you. A surface as smooth as glass likely speaks of a time when skillets were not just made but crafted with care and precision. It’s these subtle details that can help you unlock the age of your skillet and connect with its unique history.

Weight 

The heft of a cast iron skillet in your hands is more than just a measure of its quality—it’s a tangible connection to its manufacturer era. The weight of a skillet can often give us clues about the time it was made, as the casting techniques and design philosophies have shifted throughout history.

In the earlier days of cast iron production, skillets were often thinner and lighter. The manufacturing process involved hand-pouring the molten iron into molds and then painstakingly polishing the cooled product to a smooth finish. This resulted in a cast-iron skillet that was easier to handle and quicker to heat up.

As we moved into the 20th century, changes in manufacturing practices led to skillets becoming heavier. The focus shifted towards mass production, and the skillets were no longer polished after casting, which added to their weight. This increase in heft was also partly due to the iron being poured into molds more liberally, creating thicker walls and a more substantial feel.

For instance, a skillet produced by the Griswold Manufacturing Company in the early 1900s may weigh significantly less than a similar-sized skillet made by a modern manufacturer. A Griswold #8 skillet, a common size for everyday cooking, might weigh around 4 pounds. In contrast, a contemporary #8 skillet from a company like Lodge could weigh 5 pounds or more.

By comparing the weight of skillets from different periods, collectors and enthusiasts can often deduce the relative age of a piece. A lighter skillet with a smooth surface will likely be antique, possibly over a hundred years old. In contrast, a heavier, rough-textured skillet signifies a more modern lineage, likely post-1950s.

Understanding these nuances in weight and texture not only helps in dating a skillet but also offers insight into the historical context of its creation, making each meal cooked in it a page out of history.

Markings

A gate mark on cast iron skillets is a distinctive indicator of age, acting as a timestamp from a bygone era of iron casting. These marks are remnants of the casting process used in the 1800s and earlier, where molten iron was poured into the mold through a ‘gate’ or channel. Once the iron cooled and the skillet was released from the mold, a small protrusion would often remain on the bottom of the pan, indicating where the gate was located.

These gate marks are a clear sign of antiquity, as gate casting was largely phased out by the late 19th century with the advent of more advanced foundry techniques. Skillets with gate marks were typically made before 1890, making them over a century old and highly sought after by collectors.

Visually, gate marks can be identified as a raised slash or scar across the bottom of the skillet. They are usually rough to the touch, contrasting with the otherwise smooth bottom surface of older cast iron cookware. These marks are not to be confused with the heat ring, a raised circumference on the bottom of many skillets meant to provide a better seal with old-fashioned stoves.

For those interested in visual examples, gate marks can look like a small, narrow strip of extra iron or a slight indentation that interrupts the skillet’s otherwise flat base. They are a hallmark of the skillet’s journey through time and a testament to the era’s craftsmanship.

The ‘Made in USA’ Benchmark

The ‘Made in USA’ mark on a cast iron skillet is more than just a label of origin; it’s a chronological marker that can help date the piece to a specific period in manufacturing history. This marking became commonplace after the 1960s when the United States government mandated country-of-origin labels on all imported and domestic goods. This was done to promote American-made products and to make it easier for consumers to identify where the products they purchased were made.

For collectors and enthusiasts, finding ‘Made in USA’ on the bottom of a cast iron skillet is a clear indication that the skillet was produced after this mandate took effect. It’s a benchmark that separates vintage from antique, as skillets made before the 1960s typically do not carry this mark.

The presence of the ‘Made in USA’ stamp is particularly significant when it comes to brands like Lodge, which has been producing cast iron cookware continuously since 1896. A Lodge skillet without the ‘Made in USA’ mark will likely be from before the 1960s, while one with the mark will be from after the mandate was established.

This simple inscription is a valuable tool for dating skillets, providing a straightforward method to narrow down the manufacturing period, especially for American-made pieces. It’s a small detail that offers a big clue in the historical puzzle of cast iron cookware.

Cast Iron Logos and Their Legacies

For those looking to identify and date their own skillets, detailed guides with visual references are invaluable. They can turn the simple act of cooking into an exploration of history, as each logo represents a chapter in the story of American cast iron.

Each logo not only signifies the manufacturer but also, through its specific design and placement, can often indicate the decade in which the skillet was made. 

Collectors use these logos as a guide to trace the skillet’s provenance and place it within the broader narrative of American manufacturing and culinary history.

Logos emblazoned on cast iron skillets serve as the fingerprints of their manufacturers, each one a unique identifier that speaks to the skillet’s origin and age. Understanding these logos and their evolution is key to unlocking the legacy of each piece.

Here’s a brief guide to some of the most iconic cast iron manufacturers and the logos that signify their time.

Griswold’s ERIE and Iron Mountain Skillets

 Griswold skillets are among the most sought-after pieces of vintage cast iron cookware, and their distinctive markings make them a favorite for identification and collection.

Griswold’s ERIE Skillets

The earliest Griswold skillet bears the mark “ERIE,” named after the city of their manufacture, Erie, Pennsylvania. Produced from the late 1800s until the early 1900s, these skillets are revered for their fine craftsmanship and smooth cooking surfaces. The ERIE skillets often have a heat ring and are known for their lighter weight and thinner walls compared to later models. Collectors can identify these early pieces by the distinct italicized lettering and absence of the Griswold name, which was added to later products.

Griswold’s Iron Mountain Skillets:

Iron Mountain skillets, while produced by Griswold, were a separate line that offered a more budget-friendly option to consumers. These skillets, produced in the 1930s and 1940s, are characterized by a heat ring and a distinctive handle with a teardrop design. They are often marked with a number corresponding to the size of the skillet but do not carry the Griswold name. Instead, they may be identified by the pattern number, typically found on the bottom of the skillet, starting with the number “10” followed by another digit.

ERIE and Iron Mountain skillets are highly collectible due to their quality and the history they represent within the Griswold brand. 

The ERIE skillets, in particular, are considered rare and valuable, a true piece of American cast iron heritage. Collectors and enthusiasts prize these skillets not only for their use in the kitchen but also as significant artifacts from the golden age of cast iron manufacturing.

Griswolds Logos

• The Slant Logo with ERIE: Used from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, this logo is highly prized. It features the word “ERIE” in italics and is often underlined.
• The Block Logo: From the 1920s to the 1940s, Griswold used a block-letter logo. Skillets from this era are common and popular among collectors.
• The Small Logo: In the 1940s, Griswold introduced a smaller logo, which continued until the company was sold in the 1950s.

Wagner Cast Iron Skillet

Wagner skillets are treasured pieces sought after by cast-iron collectors and cooking enthusiasts alike for their quality, history, and performance. Here are some of the key characteristics and logos that distinguish vintage Wagner skillets:

• Manufacturing Quality: Wagner cast iron skillets were known for their fine craftsmanship. Produced in Sidney, Ohio, by the Wagner Manufacturing Company, these skillets were cast from high-quality iron and were renowned for their durability.
• Smooth Cooking Surface: One of the most notable features of a vintage Wagner skillet is its smooth cooking surface. 
• Logo and Markings: Vintage Wagner skillets often feature the Wagner Ware logo, with the name “Wagner” above and “Sidney O” (for Sidney, Ohio) below. The logo changed slightly over the years, and these variations can help date the skillet. Earlier pieces may have “Wagner” without the location.
• Heat Ring: Older Wagner skillets typically have a heat ring on the bottom, which is a raised rim around the circumference that was used to fit the skillet onto a wood stove. The presence of a heat ring can indicate a skillet made before the 1960s.
• Weight and Balance: Vintage Wagner skillets are known for their heft and balance. They are heavy enough to retain heat well but balanced for ease of handling, a testament to the thoughtful design of the time.
• Pour Spouts: These skillets come with pour spouts on both sides, which are more pronounced and sharper in vintage models, designed to pour out liquids easily without creating a mess.
• Handles: The handles on Wagner skillets are designed for a comfortable grip, often with a hole at the end for hanging. The design of the handle can also be an indicator of age, with older models having a more distinct, tapered shape.
• Size and Numbering: Wagner skillets typically have the size number and sometimes the pattern number marked on the bottom. The numbering system can be used to identify the skillet’s size and, in some cases, to help determine its age.

Wagner Skillet Logos

• The Sidney -O- Logo: Wagner’s earliest logo, used from the 1890s to the 1910s, includes the city of origin, “Sidney -O-.”
• The Wagner Arc Logo: This simple arched logo was used from the 1890s to the 1950s.
• The Wagner Block Logo: Post-1950s, Wagner skillets often featured a block logo without the city name.

Lodge’s Legacy

Joseph Lodge founded the Blacklock Foundry, which would become Lodge Manufacturing, in 1896 in South Pittsburg, Tennessee. This family-owned company has built a reputation on its high-quality, durable cast iron cookware and remains one of the oldest cookware companies in continuous operation in the United States. Through two World Wars and the Great Depression, Lodge has been innovative while maintaining its commitment to quality and family values.

Vintage Lodge Skillets Identifiable Characteristics

• Notches on the Heat Ring: One of the most distinctive features of older Lodge skillets is the notches on the heat ring. Early skillets often had three notches at the 9, 12, and 3 o’clock positions, which can help date them to the mid-20th century. These notches were used to fit the skillet onto the stoves of the time.
• The Absence of ‘Made in USA’: Skillets made before the 1960s will not have ‘Made in USA’ stamped on them. This detail is a quick indicator of a skillet’s age, as the marking was added post-1960s following new labeling regulations.
• The Logo Design: Vintage Lodge skillets typically have the company name in raised letters on the bottom of the skillet. The style of the logo has changed over the years, with older models featuring the name “Lodge” in a variety of fonts and configurations. The logo can be a reliable indicator of the skillet’s age.
• The Surface Texture: While Lodge has always been known for its durable, heavy-duty skillets, older models tend to have a slightly smoother surface than the very rough-textured contemporary Lodge pans. This is due to changes in the casting process over the years.
• The Weight and Thickness: Vintage Lodge skillets are generally heavier and thicker than modern versions, which is indicative of the casting techniques used during the period they were made. This gives them excellent heat retention and durability, qualities that have made Lodge a trusted name in kitchens for over a century.
• The Handle Design: Older Lodge skillets often have a distinct handle design with a ridge running along the top, which provides a better grip. The handles may also be slightly longer and have a more pronounced curve than those on newer models.
• No Model Number: Very old Lodge skillets may not have the model number that newer skillets include.

Lodge Logos

• The Single Notch Lodge: From the 1910s to the 1930s, Lodge pans had one notch on the heat ring. These are often unmarked but identifiable by this feature.
• The Three Notch Lodge: Between the 1930s and 1950s, Lodge added three notches to the heat ring.
• The Lodge USA Logo: Post-1960s Lodge pieces included ‘USA’ in the logo, reflecting the country-of-origin labeling requirement.

Collectors value vintage Lodge skillets for their historical significance and the quality of their construction. These skillets are not just cookware; they are pieces of Americana, representing a legacy of enduring American craftsmanship that continues to this day. Whether used for cooking or as collectible items, vintage Lodge skillets embody the tradition and resilience of cast iron cookware.

Vollrath and BSR

Vollrath and Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) are two historic cast iron cookware manufacturers known for their high-quality skillets. While their products are often unmarked, making them a bit of a mystery to identify, there are certain characteristics that can help enthusiasts and collectors pinpoint their origin.

Vollrath Skillets

Vollrath cast iron skillets, produced in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, are often unmarked, but they have several distinctive features.

• Smooth Cooking Surface: Similar to other high-quality vintage cast iron, Vollrath skillets typically have a smooth cooking surface.
• Handle Design: Vollrath handles are unique; they have a teardrop shape at the end and often a ridge or hump on the upper side of the handle.
• Pour Spouts: The pour spouts on Vollrath skillets are smaller and more distinct compared to other brands.
• Size Number and Pattern Number: While they may not have the Vollrath name, these skillets often have the size number and pattern number on the bottom, which can be cross-referenced with Vollrath catalogs for identification.

Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) Skillets: 

BSR, based in Birmingham, Alabama, also produced many unmarked pans, but they have their own set of identifying features.

• Heat Ring: BSR skillets often have a prominent heat ring on the bottom, which can include a ridge on the outside edge of the ring.
• No Logo: BSR skillets typically do not have the manufacturer’s logo, but they may have a “Made in USA” marking if they were produced after the 1960s.
• Size and Pattern Number: Similar to Vollrath, BSR skillets usually have the size and pattern number cast into the bottom of the skillet.
• Handle Design: BSR skillets have a distinctive handle with a ridge on the underside, which is more pronounced than on other skillets.

Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) Logos

• The Century Series: Introduced in the 1950s, these skillets have a distinctive font and often include the size and pattern numbers on the bottom.
• The Red Mountain Series: These pieces, made from the 1930s to the 1950s, are unmarked but have a distinctive handle design and size number on the bottom.

Both Vollrath and BSR skillets are renowned for their quality and durability. Identifying an unmarked cast iron skillet can be a rewarding challenge for cast iron aficionados. By paying close attention to these subtle yet distinctive features, one can uncover the origins of these fine pieces of American culinary history.

Favorite Piqua Ware Logos

• The Smile Logo: Used from the early 1900s to the 1930s, this logo features the company name in an arc, resembling a smile.
• The Block Logo: In the 1930s, Favorite Piqua Ware moved to a block logo, which was used until production ceased in the 1950s.

The Collector’s Corner

Antique cast iron skillets are not just useful objects; they are coveted pieces of culinary history that hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. The collectibility of these skillets stems from their craftsmanship, historical significance, and the stories they carry within their seasoned surfaces.

Collectibility and Value: The value of antique cast iron skillets can vary widely, influenced by age, rarity, condition, and manufacturer. Skillets with gate marks, for instance, can be particularly valuable, as they indicate production before the 1890s. Similarly, skillets from sought-after manufacturers like Griswold and Wagner command higher prices, especially those in excellent condition with distinct markings.

The skillet’s condition plays a crucial role in its value. Collectors look for pieces with a smooth cooking surface, minimal rust, and no cracks or warping. Even the patina of the skillet, which develops over years of use and proper seasoning, can add to its allure and authenticity.

Preserving and Restoring Vintage Skillets: An antique cast iron skillet involves regular seasoning to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust. This process entails coating the skillet with a thin layer of oil and baking it to create a protective layer. It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the skillet’s seasoned surface.

Restoring a vintage skillet, especially one neglected, can be a labor of love. Read about my skillet restoration process and what I uncovered here.

The restoration process often includes stripping away old seasoning build-up and rust, which can be done through various methods, including electrolysis or a vinegar soak. Once the skillet is cleaned, it must be thoroughly dried and re-seasoned to return it to its former glory.

For those passionate about bringing these historical pieces back to life, I’ve detailed my skillet restoration process, which you can read more about by clicking here. This guide is designed to help you preserve the integrity of your antique skillets while making them a functional part of your modern kitchen.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to cast iron, the joy of discovering, collecting, and restoring antique skillets is a rewarding journey. Each skillet has its own narrative, and with proper care, you can ensure these stories continue to be told for generations to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our journey through the world of antique cast iron skillets has revealed the rich tapestry of history and craftsmanship that these kitchen staples embody. From decoding the age of a skillet through its surface texture and weight to identifying unmarked treasures by their unique characteristics, each skillet offers a story to be uncovered.

We’ve learned that gate marks, the style of logos, and even the inclusion of a ‘Made in USA’ stamp can all be crucial clues in dating and authenticating these pieces. Brands like Griswold, Wagner, Lodge, Vollrath, and Birmingham Stove & Range each have their own legacies, reflected in the skillets they produce.

The collectibility of antique cast iron skillets is undeniable, with their value being appreciated by both culinary enthusiasts and historical collectors alike. The process of preserving and restoring these skillets not only honors their past but also ensures their place in the kitchens of the future.

I encourage you to explore the history that may be sitting right in your kitchen cabinet. Take a closer look at your cast iron skillet—examine its surface, feel its weight, and search for those defining marks. Share your findings with fellow enthusiasts, and become part of the community that keeps the tradition of cast iron cooking alive and well.