Cast iron cookware has been around since the early 1800s. The Griswold family was founded in 1837, and they continue to produce high-quality cast iron cookware today.
This article discusses the history of Griswold cast iron cookware and its current pricing.
Griswold cast iron cookware is a classic American brand that’s been producing top-quality cookware since 1837. They’re known for their durability, versatility, and affordability.
Their cookware is also very well-made and designed to last a lifetime.
The first Griswolds were established by John Griswold. He started his business as a blacksmith shop where he made farm equipment.
His wife, Mary, became an expert at making pots and pans. She eventually took over the company after her husband died.
As far as prices go, Griswold sells many styles of cookware ranging from $10 to $200+. You can find everything from basic skillets to professional-grade cookware.
For example, Griswold offers a 14-inch skillet that costs about $20. But if you want something larger, like a 20-inch skillet, it will cost you about $40.
You can also get a 10-quart stockpot that costs about $100. If you need something bigger, like a 16-quart pot, it will cost you $150.
So whether you’re looking for a small or large pan, Griswold has got you covered.
History Of Cast Iron Cookware
When people think of cast iron cookware, they usually think of the iconic Le Creuset French stoneware. However, cast-iron cookware has been used throughout history. For instance, the ancient Greeks and Romans used cast iron cookware.
The Chinese have been using cast iron cookware for thousands of years. They even developed a special type of cast iron called “Wok Cooking”. Woks are now widely used in Asian cuisine.
In the mid-1800s, cast iron cookware was becoming increasingly popular. Many middle-class Americans began purchasing cast iron cookware. By the early 1900s, cast iron cookery was considered a luxury item.
However, during World War II, cast iron cookware saw a resurgence. This was due to the fact that American soldiers needed sturdy cookware to survive long periods of time without access to electricity.
After the war, cast iron cookware experienced another surge in popularity. The 1950s and 1960s brought about a modern era of cast iron cookware. During this period, cookware companies began producing high-quality cookware.
Today, cast iron cookware is still very popular. In fact, some experts estimate that there are over 100 million pieces of cast iron cookware sold each year.
History Of Griswold Cast Iron Cookware
Today, Griswold castings are still being produced in the same factory that Mary started. It’s located in New Haven, Connecticut.
In the late 19th century, Griswold began selling their products through Sears Roebuck & Co. By the 1920s, the company had become one of the largest manufacturers of kitchen goods in America.
Today, Griswold produces all types of cookware including skillets, frying pans, Dutch ovens, roasters, stockpots, sauce pots, stockpots, Dutch ovens, baking sheets, casseroles, griddles, waffle makers, pizza stones, cookie sheets, muffin tins, cake pans, pie plates, and more.
Griswold cast iron works began producing hinges and stoves in 1865. They expanded their product line to include the best quality cast iron cookware in 1875.
Their factory was built in Erie, PA, and the earliest pots were marked “Erie Stamped” on the bottom.
The most well-known Griswold logo is the cross with a circle inside. There were many variations of this logo, including a version with the word “Griswold” written in block letters.
Some collectors prefer pans stamped with the original logo, while others prefer the later versions.
Griswold was an American company founded in 1894, producing cast iron cookware. Their products were sold under the names of other companies until they became their own brand in 1924. The company closed down in 1977.
Pan makers warned consumers not to purchase cast iron cookware manufactured before 1960 because the quality was poor.
Griswold Manufacturing Company purchased the Wagner Cast Iron plant in 1957 and began producing high-quality cast iron cookware.
How Come Griswold Is Popular With Collectors?
Griswolds are very durable because they’re made out of cast iron. Cast iron is an excellent material for cooking because it conducts heat well.
It also doesn’t react chemically with foods as aluminum does. That means your food won’t change color or taste.
You can clean Griswolds with soap and water just like any other cookware. Griswolds aren’t perfect, though. If you drop them or knock them around, they might chip or crack. But if you keep them stored properly, they should last a lifetime.
Griswold cast irons are some of the most durable cookware out there. They’re built to withstand heavy use and temperature fluctuations.
In addition, they’re versatile enough to handle a wide range of cooking tasks. And because they’re affordable, you can afford to experiment with new recipes and techniques.
The Price Guide For Griswold Cast Iron
Depending on where you’re buying, price guides are generally just a helpful suggestion. An old cast iron pan from the early days of Griswold iron works can cost more than $3,500, depending on the condition.
Early Griswold pans were not bought with an eye for proof of origin, but for practicality. So you might not find papers backing up their original purchase date.
It’s critically important to study the surface and to check for the spider feet built into the early pans.
Collectibles expert Tony Hyman reminded us that each piece, regardless of condition, needs to be appraised individually. He also said that if you’re unable to cook your piece, it’s probably not worth much as a collector’s item.
Always check pieces for any deep pits across the bottom (a sign of damage caused by extreme heat), and cracks.
Types Of Cast Iron Cookware: Skillet VS Frying Pan
There are two main types of cast iron cookware: skillets and frying pans.
A skillet is a flat piece of metal with a handle. It is typically used for sautéing, searing meat, or frying eggs.
A frying pan is similar to a skillet, but it has a lid. This allows you to use your frying pan to brown food before adding liquid.
If you’re just starting out, we recommend getting a skillet. You can then move up to a frying pan once you become familiar with cooking techniques.
If you decide to purchase a frying pan, be sure to choose one that has a tight-fitting lid. This ensures that the heat stays inside the pan instead of escaping through the bottom.
What Do You Need To Consider Before Buying Antique Cast Iron?
Cast iron is an excellent material for cooking because it retains heat well. Cast iron is also extremely durable, making it ideal for heavy-duty use. If you’re looking for a versatile tool that will last through multiple generations, cast iron is a great choice.
However, cast iron is not easy to care for. It needs to be seasoned properly before using, and proper seasoning requires time and patience.
A cast-iron pan should be allowed to sit out at room temperature for several weeks before first use. After seasoning, cast iron should never be washed in water. Instead, wash your cast iron with soap and warm water.
When washing cast iron, avoid scrubbing. Scrubbing may cause rusting. Once cleaned, cast iron should be dried thoroughly with a soft cloth. Never put cast iron directly onto a stove-top burner.
You could damage the surface of the pan and burn yourself.
Cast iron is strong and durable. Cast iron is also heavy and hard to move around. Cast iron pans weigh about 2 pounds each.
That means if you need to lift them out of a hot oven, you will burn your hands. You should never put a cast iron pan on a heat source unless it is preheated. If you do, you risk burning your house down!
Restoration Tips
If you’re looking for an old cast iron skillet, you’ll need to search thrift stores, yard sales, flea markets, estate sales, and antique shops.
You might also try checking online auctions like eBay and Craigslist. When you find something you like, make sure to check the underside of the pan for a maker’s mark or any other markings that will help you date the item.
To ensure that your pan is solid, rap it sharply against the countertop. If you hear a loud ring when you hit it, the pan is probably sound. If you hear a dull thud instead, there’s a chance the pan could have a crack.
These cracks aren’t always obvious, though, so be careful when buying a damaged piece.
You should also check the seasoning before using the pan again. If there are any cracks or pits, then you will need to clean them out. You can use soap to remove the burnt oil, but if you see signs of rust, then you’ll need to replace the pan.
This video shows you how to salvage an old cast iron skillet. Cast iron is heavy, and if not cared for properly, will rust out when exposed to air.
If you’re looking to add a piece of kitchen history to your collection, consider purchasing a cast iron pan. You’ll be amazed at just how well it performs.
Why Does It Remain So Popular?
Stainless steel pans are great for transferring heat, but cast iron is fantastic for retaining heat. Cast iron pans stay hot longer than other types of pans, allowing you to fry foods at higher temperatures.
When you’re working with cast iron, there’s less chance of burning yourself because of its high heat resistance.
You can also use cast iron to create a crispy crust on your food. Cast iron pans are made from special alloys that hold their temperature well. You can use them on any type of stove-top, including electric, gas, ceramic, glass, and wood.
Cast iron is an excellent choice for baking, roasting, sautéing, frying, grilling, and even simmering. Not only does it retain heat well, but it also conducts heat evenly.
This means you won’t need to flip your food often. If you’re looking to add a bit of flavor, try adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, or garlic to the oil before cooking.
Through this blog I hope to help others learn the basics and more intricate details of cooking. I know from personal experience how frustrating it can be to cook a meal, only to realize you are missing one ingredient from your list. This is why I love to write articles chatting readers through some great substitutes that can be used in an emergency.
I hope you will find this blog useful, and that it will help you to develop your culinary skills, to help you cook up a storm!
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