Wagner Cast Iron | Wagner Ware History, Dates And Logos.

Antique Wagner cast iron skillet cooking Okonomiyaki

Wagner cast iron cookware is regarded by many as some of the finest examples of 19th and 20th century cast iron. Much of the cast iron is over 100 years old and still usable today. These antique pans are sought-after by enthusiasts who prefer vintage cast iron to newer pans. But identifying and dating these old Wagner Ware Sidney -o-pans can be tricky. 

So, with this article, I hope to help you and other proud owners identify and give an estimate of the age of your cookware. You can also learn the history of your cast iron, which the Wagner Manufacturing Company manufactured. 

Table Of Contents

  1. Wagner cast iron. “Why is it so collectible?”
  2. Learn the history of the Wagner Manufacturing Company.
  3. Where you can buy Wagner cast iron.
  4. Considerations when purchasing Wagner cast iron cookware.
  5. You can identify and date antique Wagner cast iron using trademarks and logos.
  6. Final thoughts on collecting vintage Wagner Ware cast iron.

But first, here is a quick look at the Wagner Manufacturing Company.

Identify And Date Your Wagner Cast Iron Skillets Using Logos. Also, Learn The Fascinating History Of Wagner Manufacturing.

Background To Wagner Manufacturing Cast Iron.


Founders

Milton M. Wagner and Bernard P. Wagner

Operational Dates

The foundry in Sidney operated from 1891-1959

Located

The Wagner Manufacturing foundry was in Sidney, Shelby County, Ohio.

Product Line


Wagner was one of the largest American manufacturers of cast iron products in the 20th century.
Their product line included skillets, kettles, bean pots, Dutch Ovens, roasters, fruit presses, scoops, broilers, Griddles, waffle irons, muffin pans, and cornbread pans.
The company also had a range of aluminum cookware.


Wagner Brands

Wagner labeled their cookware under the following names:
Wagner, Wagner Ware Sidney -o-, Wagner Ware, National, Long Life, Magnalite, Wardway, and Ward’s Cast Iron.

Signature Products

Wagner is best known for the Sidney -O- range of skillets and Dutch Ovens.

Reason For Closure

The reason for the closure of the foundry came from two fronts.
Firstly, the Wagner family sold their interests in the company in 1953 to the Randell Company.

Secondly, the company struggled financially because of a drop in sales.
The decline in sales was due to two World Wars, the Great Depression, the development of new cookware materials, and the increase of lower-priced imports from Asia

Wagner After Buyout
(Non-Collectible)

In 1957, the Randall Company purchased long-term competitor Griswold from McGraw Edison.
The Randall Company sold the cast iron businesses to Textron Corp in 1959.
General Housewares Corporation bought Textron in 1969.
In 1994, the production of Wagner Ware ended.
Wagner Manufacturing Company History
Picture of the Wagner Manufacturing Company. Also, note the wording you’re likely to find on Wagner cookware.

Why Is Wagner Cast Iron Collectible?

Super Smooth Cooking Surface.

Wagner cast iron is highly collectible. Like most antique cast iron, Wagner manufactured high-quality cookware for their entire range of cast iron products. 

Unlike Wapak cast iron ironware, it often has characteristic casting flaws. Wagner cast iron tends to have a few casting flaws, resulting in very smooth cookware on both the interior and exterior of the cookware.

Wagner Ware Sidney O skillet on a table

Focus On Quality

Imagine that workers would have worked on individual pieces of ironware. It was machined to smooth the interior and exterior of each pan. You can only see this level of detail in high-end cast iron cookware such as Le Creuset and Staub. 

Today, Le Creuset and Staub benefit from combining traditional and modern manufacturing methods. However, the workers at Wagner could make cast iron cookware without casting flaws or bubbles. Must have taken great skill and attention to detail.

Wagner cast iron with two other antique cast iron skillets.

Wagner Made A Wide Range Of Cast Iron Cookware.

You can’t go wrong with an old Wagner cast iron skillet. It will serve you well for years, and they’re great fun. However, you may want to consider a Wagner Dutch oven. They are super smooth, and just like the skillets, they are reasonably priced. You can also buy cast iron muffin pans, which can be pretty cheap. But watch out for shipping costs that can increase the overall price drastically. Some of Wagner cast-iron cookware range includes:

  • Dutch ovens
  • Griddles
  • Gem pans
  • Waffle irons
  • Skillets

You can even collect Wagner cast iron cornbread pans that look like corn cobs. Wagner Manufacturing also produced aluminum cookware, which must have seemed revolutionary.

Collect Your Favorite Logo.

If you want a vintage skillet, then Wagner skillets are a great choice. You can choose from sixteen different logos and trademarks or markings. I like pans with heat rings, while others may prefer a pan with a smooth base.

I think this wide selection makes Wagner cookware more collectible than other manufacturers, such as Vollrath and Martin Stove and Range, which manufacture a limited range of products.

Wagner cast iron skillet on a table. This skillet shows this Wagner Ware Sidney O logo

Wagner Manufacturing Company Focused On Quality Over Quantity.

Quality was a focus from the very start for Wagner Manufacturing Company. They even advertised this selling point to consumers. Old advertisements read; 

We do not strive to manufacture hollowware as cheaply as possible but as well as it can be made. We cannot afford to put on the market ware that will not sustain our reputation. The name Wagner is on the bottom of each piece of ware.

Wagner Manufacturing Company History

Founders And Foundry



Who Founded Wagner Manufacturing?


Wagner Manufacturing Company was founded in 1891 by Milton M. and Bernard P. Wagner. However, two more Wagner brothers, Louis and William Wagner, joined the company in the following years. 


Another key player in the foundation of the company was R. Bingham. Bingham previously worked at Marion Stove Company and the Sidney Manufacturing Company.

Where Was Wagner Cast Iron And Wagner Ware Made?

The company had its ironworks in Sidney, Shelby County, Ohio.

Early cookware from Wagner Manufacturing had a simple Wagner marking on the back of the ironware. Wagner included Sidney O. in their cookware around 1895. The term Wagner Ware first appeared in the logo in the 1920s.
Black and White photo of William Wagner.
Willian Wagner the first President of the Wagner Manufacturing Company. Photo credit goes to the Shelby County Historical Society.

The Wagner Product Line Added Nickel Plating, Aluminum, And Magnalite.


Nickel-Plated Cast Iron

To complement their cast iron range, Wagner added a nickel-plated range.
Unlike cast iron and copper pots, nickel plating does not react to acidic foods such as tomatoes, which can taint food.
It’s easy to look past the development of nickel-plating. But, in the 19th century, bonding two metals together would have required much metal casting expertise.

Aluminum Cookware

Along with nickel-plated cast iron, the Wagner brothers in 1894 manufactured a line of aluminum cookware, and Wagner Manufacturing was one of the first companies to do so. 
Aluminum Cookware Exported To EuropeBy 1913, Wagner cast iron and aluminum products were selling in Europe.
Magnalite
In the 1930s, Wagner manufactured a cookware line with a patented aluminum alloy called Magnalite.
Great black and white photo of a Wagner Manufacturing Company sales truck
Wagner Manufacturing Company sales truck. Photo sourced from the Shelby County Historical Society.

Wagner Manufacturing Buys Their Sidney Competition.

Wagner Bought Sidney Hollowware Company. In 1897, Wagner bought the Sidney-based competitor Sidney Hollow Ware Co. from the founder and owner Phillip Smith.

Sidney Hollow Ware made high-quality cast iron cookware that was extremely light and smooth. Sidney Hollow Ware Co. was also an early adopter of nickel-plating cast iron.

Why Did Wagner Buy Sidney Hollow Ware Company?


It was a brilliant idea to buy the Sidney Hollow Ware Company. After all, Wagner Manufacturing and Sidney competed in the same city and made comparable products.

However, it was common knowledge that Smith made a tidy profit from his original investment in the foundry. To run the Sidney Foundry, William H. Wagner joined the family business to oversee the operation.

Wagner Sold Sidney Hollow Ware Back To Phillip Smith.

In 1903, Wagner Manufacturing sold the Sidney Hollow Ware Company to the founder, Phillip Smith. Sadly, Phillip Smith did not reopen the foundry due to health reasons.
Sidney cast iron made by Wagner
Photo credit to Lanny Wadle.

Wagner Introduced A New Product Line To Stop A Decline In Sales.

The Great Depression

(Magnalite)

I have to take my hats off to Wagner because they introduced a new product line called Magnalite in one of the deepest recessions the world has ever seen.

Wagner Manufacturing was steadfast in making only quality products. For this reason, the cookware is collected and highly usable.
The Sales Decline
Wagner introduced Magnalite to stop falling sales at Wagner Manufacturing; it was not due to their product range.
Magnalite was hugely popular, but it could not offset the effect of the worldwide recession.

From 1929-1941, the US was in the grips of what we now call the Great Depression. Therefore, it was not only Wagner. However, many foundries struggled financially to survive. Many didn’t.
Wager Ware Sidney O skillet and two Sidney hollow ware skillets

The Family Sells Their Interest In The Foundry.


Wagner Family Sells The Company To Randall Corp.

Wagner Manufacturing Co. lasted longer than many foundries. However, in 1952, Wagner was sold to the Randall Company. Unbelievably, the Randall Company was a car parts manufacturer.

Textron Buys Randall

In 1959, another business called Tetron bought Wagner. Textron also purchases Griswold Manufacturing Company.


At this date, cast iron enthusiasts consider this the end of Wagner Ware production. Wagner cast iron pans made after this date are considered not collectible.

General House Wares

General Housewares Corporation in 1969 bought the rights of Griswold and Wagner.

Is Wagner Ware Still Made?

With the world rediscovering cast iron cookware, will we see Wagner Ware skillets manufactured again?


General Houses Ware stopped the manufacture of Wagner Ware in 1994.


However, there is a glimmer of hope for Wagner Ware. In 2014, American Culinary bought both the Wagner and Griswold trademarks. 


So, fingers crossed, cast-iron fans may one day decide to manufacture Wagner cast iron again.

Where Can You Get Your Hands On Some Wagner Ware?

  • Grandparents (best deal and great to keep your heritage in the family).
  • Antique stores (check online to compare the store price).
  • Garage sales (rescue those poor skillets from the tip).
  • Flea markets (search the markets for hidden gems).
  • Online (largest selection available; however, asking prices can vary greatly.
Wagner Ware cast iron skillet cooking traditional Japanese food

Buying Considerations Before You Buy Antique Wagner Ware

There Is Plenty Of Wagner Cast Iron Around, So Take Your Time.

There is no shortage of Wagner cast iron. Wagner had a large percentage of the cookware market back in its heyday. And plenty of fantastic Wagner skillets and Dutch ovens are in excellent condition.

What Size Skillet Or Dutch Oven Suits Your Needs?

The first thing you may want to think about is the size you need. There are often plenty of #8 skillets around. This size seems to be the most common for Wagner skillets and other vintage cast iron manufacturers, such as Favorite Piqua. 

Inspect Carefully Since A Lot Of Wagner Ware Is Nickel-Plated.

Check the cookware carefully. The Wagner Manufacturing Company was an early adopter of nickel plating. However, most of Wagner cookware is unplated iron. Heavy seasoning may hide nickel plating. Nickel-plated can wear off or be patchy in places. Take a close look before purchasing.

Would You Like A Wagner Ware Skillet With A Smooth Bottom Or Heat Ring?

Do you want a pan with a smooth bottom or one with a heat ring? The older Wagner Ware skillets will have a heat ring, while the later-made pans have a smooth, flat base. It is a personal preference. I tend to like the older skillets with heat rings. They have more character, but the smooth-bottom Wagner cookware tends to be a little cheaper. And they are great cooking pans, too.

Does The Cookware Sit Flat?

As with all antique cast iron, asking the seller if the pan sits flat could be a good idea. A lever base is practical if cooking on a flat surface such as induction or glass.

Learn To Date And Identify Your Wagner Cast Iron Using Logos And Markings.

Although I’ve researched carefully, please only use the dates as an approximation.

Wagner cast iron cookware, to my knowledge, has sixteen known logos, brands, or markings. These include:

Straight Wagner Logo 1890s-1915

Wagner Cast Iron with Wagner Straight Logo
Two Wagner Cast iron skillets with the “Wagner” in straight block text. Note this logo lacks the Sidney -O- marking seen in later designs. Circa 1891-1915.
Wagner Dutch oven restoration
Thanks to a kind reader who sent in this photo to add to the helpfulness of this resource. We can see an example of a Wagner Dutch oven with straight wording. Note the unusual placement of the size number. That’s one great find.

Wagner Arc Logo 1891-1910

Wagner Cast-Iron Skillet with arc logo
An early logo by Wagner. Circa 1891-1910
Wagner cast iron skillet with arc logo.
The arc logo may overlap the block logo. Circa 1891-1910

Double Arc Wagner Sidney O 1895-1915

Wagner Cast-Iron Skillet with double arc logo
In the double arc logo, both “Wagner” and Sidney are in a slight curve. I don’t see these beauties too often. Keep an eye out for them.

Sidney Arc logo Circa 1897-1903.

Not much is known about vintage Sidney skillets. However, many cast iron enthusiasts believe they were made in the Sidney Hollowware foundry. After the company was sold to Wagner Manufacturing.

Straight Sidney Logo Circa 1897-1903.

Antique Sidney cast iron skillet
It’s hard to place an accurate date on when. Wagner produced these Sidney cast iron. I’m willing to change my mind, but currently, I date this cast iron Circa: 1887-1903. During this period, Wagner Manufacturing owned and operated the Sidney Hollowware Company.
Straight Sidney cast iron logo.
Sidney cast iron skillet made by Wagner after the Sidney Hollow Ware was sold to Wagner Manufacturing Company. Center straight logo circa 1897-1903

Straight Wagner Sidney O. (Centered.) 1910-1915

Antique Wagner cast iron skillet identification
Antique Wagner Sidney O skillet. This logo is centered, and both Wagner and Sidney are straight in block lettering. Circa 1910-1915

Wagner Sidney O. Wagner Slightly Arced While The Sidney Lettering Is Straight. Circa 1915-1920s

Vintage Wagner Skillet
Arc Wagner and straight Sidney logo. This skillet was made from 1915 through the 1920s.

First Wagner Ware Sidney O. With Arc Wagner And Straight Ware And Sidney. Circa 1920s.

Wagner Ware Sidney o kettle
Here is a little kettle with a scarce Wagner Ware logo. Check roasters and kettles for this logo.

Stylized Wagner Ware Sidney O. for regular skillets. Circa 1920-1924 with heat ring and single-digit size number. 1924-1935 with a heat ring and a four-digit pattern number. Around 1935-1959, for skillets with no heat ring.

Wagner Ware Sidney o with stylized logo
You will see a lot of Wagner Ware with the stylized logo. This skillet has two other methods we can use to place an age on the skillet. You’ll notice this skillet has a four-digit pattern number and a heat ring. So, I think this skillet is Circa 1924-1935.
How old is my Wagner Ware skillet
Here is an excellent skillet with a smooth base. This skillet was made circa 1935-1959.

Centralized Stylized Wagner Sidney O. 1924-1935 With Heat Ring.

Vintage Wagner Ware Sidney o
Vintage Wagner Ware Sidney o with the stylized logo placed in the center. Circa: 1920-1935

Pie Logo 1924-1934. However, Manufacturing Dates Are Uncertain.

Wagner skillet with pie logo
Wagner Skillet with pie logo. This skillet does not have a heat ring. So I think it is unlikely it was made before 1930. Circa 1930-1934

National Cast Iron Dates Between 1914 and 1940s 

There are several different versions of cast iron with the National marking. Wanger marketed the Nation brand as entry-level cookware for budget-conscious consumers. Wagner made the National line circa 1914 to 1940.

National cast-iron skillet
This National cast-iron skillet was made by the Wagner Manufacturing Company. This skillet has large lettering in an arc. It was likely made between 1914-1930
National cast iron skillet with star markers mark.
Economy brand of Wagner Manufacturing Company. Circa 1914-the 1920s

Long Life Logo 1930s.

Long Life Skillet
Cast iron Long Life Skillet made by Wagner. This skillet was made in the 1930s.

Wardway and Montgomery Ward. The Montgomery Ward Department store contracted Wagner Manufacturing Company to produce an in-store label. Circa the 1930s.

Wards cast iron skillet
This Wards cast iron skillet was made in the Wagner casting works in the 1930s. And It was sold as a house label for the Montgomery Ward Department store.
Montgomery Ward cast iron skillet logo
Montgomery Ward cast-iron logo.
Wardway cast iron skillet
Here’s a Wardway cast iron skillet. Montgomery Ward contracted Wagner to make this in-store brand. And it was most likely made in the 1930s.

Final Thoughts On Wagner Cast Iron.

Fortunately, Wagner cast iron is more straightforward to date than other foundries of the time. Wagner Ware also has a huge collector base, so dates are well documented. The Cast Iron Collector is a valuable online resource for enthusiasts. Also, there are Facebook groups where you can share your love of cast iron cookware.

The Wagner Manufacturing Company was known for quality over quantity. Therefore, it has a good reputation for making trustworthy products. 

Today, collectors and enthusiasts seek out Wagner cookware. However, you don’t need to be a collector to enjoy vintage cast iron. Here are six reasons why Wagner Ware is excellent ironware.

Although many cast iron enthusiasts look for Wagner-made skillets. But you’re not limited there. Wagner Manufactures a wide selection of cast iron cookware. You may find yourself becoming interested in:

  • muffin pans
  • Dutch ovens
  • Scotch bowls

Since Wagner made some of the finest cast iron of the 19th and 20th centuries, Wagner ironware is still sought-after by cast-iron fans and hobbyists alike.

494 COMMENTS

  1. Hello I have a Wagner Ware Sidney O pan that makes 7 cornbread sticks. Also on the back it says junior and Krusty Korn Kob with the ks in the shape of little ears of corn and also PAT. D JULY 6 1920. The number is 1319 and the letter E. Can you please tell me more about it. It belonged to my parents who were married in 1938. Thanks.

    • Hi Jim

      I have one there little pans too. They are surprisingly heavy for the size.

      I believe the Kristy Korn Kobs design was invented by My Barnard Wagner himself. And they were so popular that there are known reproductions. Although the imitations have a noticeably rough surface. Despite the pattern date of 1920, many collectors believe Wagner used this pattern through the 1940s-1960s. But I wouldn’t be surprised if they used this mold in the 1930s. And these dates coincide with your mother and father being newly weds. Very cool.

      Help this helps, and enjoy your family heirloom.

  2. I just picked up a Wagner Ware Sidney -O- with no heat ring. It’s most similar to the Centralized Wagner Ware Sidney O, but is found at the top, across from the handle and 1088 right above the handle. No heat ring. What are your thoughts on the age of this one? It is also a chicken fryer I think. It is a skillet with high sides. Do you know if this came with a lid?

    • Hi Cicily

      Congratulations on buying an old vintage Wagner Ware, I’m sure you’ll get a lot of fun from it

      You have a deep skillet, although it’s commonly referred to as a chicken fryer. Wagner produced these skillets over a long time frame. I believe from the 1920s to the 1950s. If your fryer came with a lid, we could narrow the manufacturing date somewhat. However, I seldom see chicken fryer with an accompanying lid. Keep on eye open for a cover with the pattern number 1081. This size should fit your pan, but please ask the seller to exact measurements just to be on the safe side.

      Thanks for getting in touch and enjoy your vintage Wagner

  3. I have a rectangular #8 griddle. It’s marked with a straight “WAGNER” SYDNEY O., similar to the pan markings from 1910-1915. I’m wondering if the markings on the griddles work the same as the pans? Could you help to date the griddle?

    • Hi Matt

      Thanks for getting in touch. It sounds like you have a long griddle.

      Like any antique there is plenty of room for speculation as to when these griddles were manufactured.

      However, if the handles on your griddle has a strengthening bar in the center, then I believe the 1910-1915 date is a good estimate. And earlier if the handle is unreinforced, and has a single hole for grip.

      Cheers Matt, hope this helps

  4. Hi there!

    I have a Wagner Ware (arched) Sidney (straight) -O- 1861 2 qts pan. No spouts, metal handle that seems to be a different metal than the pan itself ( i think the pan is aluminum? handle is darker and heavier. Can you help tell me when it is from and what it is? Seems to be a skillet but the sides are pretty straight. I would appreciate any help I cannot find anything online that looks like it.

    • Hi Sabina

      Thanks for sending in your question, and with these questions I’m learning more about Wagner everyday.

      Unfortunately, I haven’t come across any Wagner cookware matching the 1861 pattern number. It’s not a large pot, but I suspect your saucepan/frypan is from the company’s commercial line. And it was designed for heavy duty use in hotels and in restaurants. If you wanted to know the date of manufacture, I’d still use this logo guide to roughly estimate the age of your pan.

      You have a scarce and unique piece of Wagner history, Well done.

      Hope this helps.

  5. Hello,

    I was wondering about the glass scalloped lids, I have one that fits my #8. What years were they made?

    Thanks,

    Maureen

    • Hi Maureen

      Thanks for your question.

      I need to learn more about glass lids. However, I can give you a rough estimate. There are several slight variations to Wagner logo designs found on the cover. However, in your case you didn’t mention a logo. Luckily this actually helps, and I think your cover was made sometime in the 1960s.

      Hope this helps

        • No problem Maureen

          If the W on the logo looks fancy or cursive, your lid is more likely to be made in the 1950s. However, if the W has a standard font then it more likely to be made in the 1970s.

          Cheers, have fun.

  6. Hi,  I looked through all the comments and can’t find a pan like mine.  I inherited it from my dad and it was his mother’s whom I never knew.

    It has pour spouts on the left and right and a small section of cast iron opposite the handle for gripping purposes.

    My pan has the stylized ” Wagner-ware” logo with the Sydney and -o-.

    It also contains the “1401” and “A” at the bottom of the pan

    However it also has a series of numbers  and letters above the 1401A.  It is hard to read but looks like

    PAT NOS. 97022-1554360

    I am having trouble finding this and would love to know a little bit about the pan so I can learn a bit about something that was used by my grandmother, as well as something to pass on to my son’s.

    Thanks

    • Hi Katie

      Thanks for your contact.

      Your pan is known as a double skillet and originally come with a deep skillet and skillet that would interlock to make cover. Over the years it’s not unusual to see these pieces separated, as you can guess these two pieces together would be weighty. Because the base was used for frying it was more likely to warp or be thrown out if it became encrusted with oil build up.

      It sounds like you have the base, lucky you. Enjoy your skillet.

  7. Hi there,
    We found a 24 qt very HUGE aluminum pan/skillet with two side handles on an old homestead we bought. The bottom says Wagner Sidney 0 1854 -24 qt. I can’t find any as big online to give me an approx date of how old it is. Do you have any idea of when it was made? Thanks!

    • Hi there Jessica

      Thanks for your question. Unfortunately, I can’t answer your question with any great certainty. But Wagner had a large commercial line, and they made some huge vessels known as sugar kettles. So, it may come to no surprise but I believe your pan was used for commercial or industrial food use.

      Cheers enjoy your pan, I bet it make a great display.

  8. I found a Wagner Ware Sidney “O” 1228 E today. The outside diameter across the top is 10″ and the sides are 7″ high from the table top. I assume it’s a roaster but I can’t find anything on it through google. Any help would be appreciated

    • Hi there Bob

      I believe you have a Wagner Ware flat bottom kettle. You probably have noticed the sides are higher than a standard Dutch Oven, and is bucket like in appearance. The pattern number indicates your kettle is size number 8 and it should hold 7 quarts.

      Cheers Bob enjoy your kettle.

  9. I just acquired a Wagner 1401 C with a heat ring. Based on your guide, I’m guessing 1924-35. It looks like it must have nickel in it, as the skillet is black, but the outsides are a little more metallic looking and the handle is worn and silver in places. If it’s nickel plated, wouldn’t the handle be black, as the nickel would have worn off? It seems counter to what I would expect. And is nickel less desirable? Did it cook differently? Thanks, your post is REALLY helpful… The best and most complete I’ve seen!

    • Hi Jason

      The 1401 pattern number indicates you have a double skillet and originally come as a two piece set. A deep skillet with a skillet used as a cover.
      This is a heavy combination set, and it not unusual to use them separately.

      The handle often reveals nickel plating on cast-iron. I guess handling removes the seasoning layer over time, exposing the nickel beneath. You’re right nickel plating to not as desirable and regular cast-iron. However, the metal is still used in modern stainless steel cookware.

      I’m sure you’re going to get a lot of use and enjoyment out of your skillet.

      Cheers Jason, happy cooking.

  10. Great article, thanks for the info. I just recently acquired an unmarked No. 10 (marked 11¾ in skillet). On the bottom of the handle is an “S” is this a mold designator or is it something else? Thanks, Dan.

    • Hi Dan

      Congratulations on your purchase. And you’re spot-on with identification. Some Wagner skillets have a number on the handle, and I agree that this is an indication of a mold rather than a maker.

      Hope this helps, and enjoy your vintage ironware.

  11. Can you please tell me the vintage of my Wagner Ware skillet and any other information about it? Also, can you tell me what the R and 8 stand for?

    On the bottom of pan at the top:
    Stylized Wagner Ware. (No Sidney. No heat ring.)

    On the bottom of pan at the bottom:
    10 1/2 inch skillet
    Made is USA
    R

    On top of pan where the handle meets the skillet:
    8

    Thank you in advance for helping me know how old this great pan is!!!
    Barb

    • Hi Barb

      Thanks for your detailed description.

      Many enthusiasts like myself date pans with this logo with a conservative post 1960 estimate. There is no concrete date of manufacture, but skillets without the Sidney marking, and made in the USA are signs of ironware made after the Wagner family sold their stake in the company. And when new owners produced ironware using the Wagner name.

      Personally, I think of these pans as 1960s to early 1970s era ironware. Before new logos were introduced in later years.

      Hope this points you in the right direction.

  12. I have a skillet with the stylized Wagner Logo and Sidney 0. The only other marking is 7A on the bottom where the handle is positioned. I don’t see this on your list. Any information would be helpful.

    • Hi Carol

      Thanks for getting in touch.

      You’ll be able to get a rough idea of the age of your pan by using the logo guide. But because your skillet doesn’t have a four digit pattern number, I can narrow the timeline down for you. I believe your skillet was probably made in the early to mid 1920s. So your pan is real old-timer.

      Hope this helps and have fun using your vintage Wagner.

  13. I was given my Grandmother’s stylized Wagner – Ware, Sydney -O- 1061A with the heat ring along with these instructions “do not mess up my best skillet.” I’m sure she bought it new in the 1930’s and remember it hanging on the wall perfectly shiny black. I use is often and cherish the memories as well as the service.

    What does the 1061a stand for?

    Thank you,

    • Hi Warren

      Thanks for getting in touch.

      The four digit number on your skillet is called a pattern number. I believe Wagner introduced this numbering system around the mid 1920s. Pattern numbers were used for ordering and identification purposes. For example, I know your skillet is size number 11.

      Hope this helps Warren and have fun using your skillet.

      Cheers

  14. I found a heavily encrusted Wagner Ware Sydney O with a 2A on the bottom (flat) which I am cleaning up for my Mom. She’s pushing 90 and about all she can lift. What is difference between 2 & 2A (Canadian version 2eh?) and how old would it be for when she asks?
    Thanks

    • Hi Gerrit

      Thanks for getting in touch. I’m sure your mum will be so pleased with your restoration efforts. The 2 and 2a skillets were most likely manufactured using different molds, and used for identification and quality control purposes.

      However, I want to touch on a different topic. The number 2 with stylized logo is less common than other sizes and can bring a surprising value considering the size. It’s a not huge sum, but it certainly is worth avoiding power tools in restoration that would drastically reduce the value of the pan.

      Your skillet was probably made the early to mid 1920s.

      Well done on your find.

  15. I have a Wagner Ware Sidney 1059 A cast-iron skillet that belonged to my grandmother.

    It does not have a heat ring. I use it very often and wash and dry it immediately. I put a thin layer of canola oil on it while it is still warm. The entire interior of the pan is bumpy.

    I read somewhere that it could be cleaned really thoroughly by putting it into the oven and turning on the oven cleaning function. Is this a good thing to do? I would like to get the surface of the pan smoothed out.

    • Hi Betty

      Thanks for your question, and I’m pleased you use your grandmother’s old skillet. After all these old pieces were made to be used.

      The self-cleaning oven method to remove seasoning, is a little contentious within the cast-iron community. Because there are less risky methods to clean cast-iron pots and pans. This is largely due to the oven reaching an extreme heat to burn off grease. And this heat may warp the pan. However, I’m mindful that most people only have one or two pans and setting up a lye or electrolysis tank is unfeasible and has safety concerns.

      If you had an old Lodge I’d say go ahead. But because you have an heirloom piece, I have to be a little cautious recommending this method, just incase your skillet did warp. However, the self cleaning method will remove built up seasoning, and allow you to apply a fresh layer.

      I’d check out some YouTube videos to see the results. But if you decide to take this route, just make sure it’s on a fine day, so you can open the windows.

      Thanks and have fun restoring your skillet.

  16. Hi I really would like your help.

    I’ve had this Wagner cast iron skillet longer than I can remember. It has an 8 on the top of the handle and two pour spouts. On the bottom of the skillet are an arched NATIONAL at the top. WAGNER in the middle & below that ARE-the W is shared. Next is Sidney & below is-O-. At the part nearest the handle is 1358 A.

    Since I lived in the Sidney area for a long time, I’m proud of the skill that was used to make my skillet which explains why they have lasted so long. I forgot to add that it has a heat ring.

    Thank you in advance.

    • Hi JoAnn

      Thanks for getting in touch, and It’s great to hear you’re treasuring your regions history.

      There are a couple of logo variations of the National + Wagner logo and pattern number. Luckily these version were roughly made around the same time. You have a later version of the National cast skillet. And I believe it was made circa 1930s-1940s.

      Wagner introduced National as a budget friendly line. But you can expect the quality to be of the same high standard as any Wagner pan. They are beautiful pans.

      Have fun cooking with your piece of Sidney history.

  17. Did Wagner ever make unmarked skillets? I just bought one and was told it was a Wagner. But it’s not marked, can that be or was I lied to?

    Thanks for you help

    • Hi Roberta

      I can understand your concern, however I can confirm Wagner made unmarked ironware. In fact they manufactured quite a lot of unmarked pieces. If there is any writing on the back, it should be nat 12 o’clock near the handle.

      Hope this puts your mind at ease.

      Cheers

  18. I have a “wagner” (arched)
    sidney (straight) o That might be 1915-1920- right?
    #10 round griddle (?)
    and it has a notch cut out on the bottom rim.
    It is very dirty/seasoned.
    My questions: what is the name of this pan?
    Why does it have a notch?
    Should i clean it?
    I believe I came to the right place to get correct answers!
    Thank you! This web page is fantastic!!!
    Diane

    • Hi Diane

      Thanks for the contact.

      Definitely clean up your griddle and bring back into kitchen service. And you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction when you use your griddle.

      I’m unaware of a notch on the rim of these old griddles. Usually the rim is smooth. I wonder if I was added after for identification purposes. After all it would take an almighty whack to dent the base.

      Glad you like the site. Hoping to add some videos later in the year, that will include recipes for our vintage ironware.

      Cheers, great a great week.

      Brett a.k.a. Boonie

  19. I found a griddle pan, Wagner Ware Sidney, -0- fat free fryer pat.appld for 1102E can you tell me any thing on it, how old it is, thank you

    • Hi Beverly

      Thanks for getting in touch.

      There is a well-known guide that places your griddle circa 1970s-1980s. However, during this time the logo radically changed under the General Housewares Corp.

      So I believe it’s more than likely Wagner manufactured these pieces earlier. I’d date manufacture in the circa 1950s.

      Hope this helps, and have fun using your griddle.

  20. Hello!

    I am a university student doing a research project on American material culture. The object I’m using is a small cast-iron Wagner ashtray. Inside the ashtray is an embossing that says “International Molders and Allied Worker’s Union” with the founding date of 1859. The back has the stylized Wagner Ware logo with the Sidney o at the bottom and no identifying number.

    I’m fairly certain that it is a commemorative gift for the union’s centennial anniversary and was made around 1959. I’m struggling to find any concrete sources, however, and was wondering if you had any resources I could look at moving forward or know anything about this specific piece. If you would like to see a picture I would be happy to send one.

    Thank you!

    • Hi Samantha

      I hope you studies are going well and you have found some resources for your project.

      However, I may have a few links that might be of interest to you. But firstly I think you’re very close with your estimated date of manufacture. However, I’d place your ashtray slightly later as I assume the Wagner Ware logo is inside an oval? I believe your advertising ashtray was made by the company called the General Housewares Corporation. The company bought the naming rights and patterns of Wagner and started to make Wagner Ware from the 1960s to the 1990s.

      Ashtrays with the pattern number 1050 will look almost identical to your commemorative piece. I’ve seen these pieces advertised on antique sites as circa 1960s. But, I wouldn’t be surprised if General Housewares Corp continued to make advertising ashtrays in the 1970s-1980s.

      Here’s a link with dates and name change of the union in 1961 https://digitalassets.lib.berkeley.edu/irle/ucb/text/lb001128.pdf it has some nice photos you may find useful.

      It’s unusual to have Sidney O at the base of the ashtray since General Houseware undoubtedly outsourced production of their ironware. However, there’s a connection of Wagner Ware the International Molders and Allied Worker’s Union and a Sidney based foundry on this link https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/service/ll/fedreg/fr043/fr043146/fr043146.pdf. Scroll to page 32900.

      Trust this helps with your research, best of luck.

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