Griswold Cast Iron - History, Value, Identify Guide In 2024

Griswold Cast Iron holds a legendary status in the realm of cookware, steeped in a rich history of craftsmanship and culinary excellence.

From its humble beginnings in Erie, Pennsylvania, over a century ago, Griswold has forged a legacy of durable, versatile cast iron pans that have become cherished heirlooms in kitchens worldwide.

Renowned for their exceptional heat retention, even cooking, and seasoned surfaces that develop a non-stick patina over time, Griswold Cast Iron stands as a testament to timeless quality and the artistry of cooking.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, delving into the world of Griswold is like unlocking a treasure trove of culinary possibilities.

Table of Contents

What Is Griswold Cast Iron

Griswold Cast Iron refers to a renowned brand of cast iron cookware known for its durability, even heating, and nostalgic charm.

Many enthusiasts and collectors covet Griswold pieces for their exceptional craftsmanship and vintage appeal. The term “Griswold Cast Iron” often evokes images of classic skillets, Dutch ovens, and griddles that have stood the test of time.

These pieces are celebrated for their ability to develop a natural non-stick surface over time, making them prized possessions in kitchens worldwide.

History Of Griswold Cast Iron

Griswold Cast Iron has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s when the Griswold Manufacturing Company was founded in Erie, Pennsylvania.

The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality cast iron cookware that was both functional and beautifully crafted. Throughout the early 20th century, Griswold Cast Iron became synonymous with top-notch kitchenware, known for its excellent heat retention and distribution.

Griswold’s innovation and commitment to quality led to the development of iconic pieces such as their famous skillets, Dutch ovens, and waffle irons.

These products were prized not only for their practicality but also for their aesthetic appeal, featuring intricate designs and smooth finishes that set them apart from competitors.

However, the production of Griswold Cast Iron came to an end in the mid-20th century due to changes in the market and the company’s eventual closure.

Despite this, Griswold Cast Iron remains highly sought after by collectors and cooking enthusiasts, with vintage pieces commanding significant value and admiration for their history and craftsmanship.

Date Griswold Skillet With Logos

Here are the dates corresponding to the different logos used on Griswold skillets:

1. Griswold Cast Iron Erie Logo (1880-1907)

The Griswold Cast Iron Erie Logo, used from 1880 to 1907, represents an iconic era in cast iron cookware history. During this period, Griswold established itself as a premier manufacturer of high-quality kitchen essentials.

The Erie logo, featuring the word “ERIE” in a bold, distinctive font, became synonymous with durability and craftsmanship. Griswold skillets bearing this logo are highly prized by collectors for their historical significance and superior performance.

They reflect the meticulous attention to detail and dedication to quality that defined Griswold’s early years, making them coveted treasures for cooking enthusiasts and aficionados of vintage cast iron.

2. Griswold Diamond Logo (1905-1906)

The Griswold Diamond Logo, used briefly from 1905 to 1906, represents a unique and transitional phase in Griswold’s branding history.

This logo features a diamond shape with the word “GRISWOLD” inside, showcasing a departure from the earlier Erie logo. The introduction of this logo coincided with a period of innovation and evolution in Griswold’s product design and manufacturing processes.

Although the Diamond Logo’s tenure was short-lived, it reflects Griswold’s commitment to staying relevant and adapting to changing market trends.

Today, Griswold skillets bearing the Diamond Logo are sought after by collectors for their rarity and connection to this intriguing chapter in cast iron cookware history.

3. Griswold Slant Logo With Heat Ring And No EPU (1906-1916)

The Griswold Slant Logo with a heat ring and no EPU, used from 1906 to 1916, marks a significant era in Griswold’s cast iron production. This logo features the word “GRISWOLD” slanted at an angle, often accompanied by a heat ring around the base of the skillet.

The absence of the “EPU” (which stands for Erie, Pennsylvania, USA) distinguishes these pieces from earlier iterations. Griswold’s inclusion of a heat ring during this period enhanced the skillets’ functionality, allowing for more even heating and versatile cooking options.

Skillets bearing this logo are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical significance and practical design features.

The Griswold Slant Logo with a heat ring and no EPU represents a blend of innovation and tradition, showcasing Griswold’s ongoing commitment to producing top-quality cast iron cookware for culinary enthusiasts.

4. Griswold Slant Logo With EPU And Heat Ring (1906-1926)

The Griswold Slant Logo with EPU (Erie, Pennsylvania, USA) and a heat ring, used from 1906 to 1926, is a hallmark of Griswold’s commitment to quality and innovation during this period.

This logo features the word “GRISWOLD” slanted at an angle, accompanied by the EPU mark denoting the company’s manufacturing location. The addition of a heat ring around the skillet’s base further enhanced heat distribution and cooking performance.

Skillets bearing this logo are prized by collectors for their historical significance and superior craftsmanship.

Griswold’s use of the slant logo alongside the EPU mark reflects a period of growth and success for the company, as it solidified its reputation as a leading producer of cast iron cookware.

These skillets represent a blend of timeless design and functional excellence, making them cherished pieces among cooking enthusiasts and collectors alike.

5. Griswold Slant Logo Without Erie (1909-1920)

The Griswold Slant Logo without the “Erie” marking, used from 1909 to 1920, signifies a notable phase in Griswold’s branding evolution.

This logo features the word “GRISWOLD” slanted at an angle, but unlike earlier versions, it does not include the “Erie, Pennsylvania, USA” designation. This change in branding may have been influenced by various factors, including marketing strategies or production considerations.

Skillets bearing this logo are sought after by collectors for their distinctiveness within the Griswold timeline. They represent a period where Griswold continued to refine its cast iron cookware while adjusting branding elements.

Despite the absence of the Erie marking, these skillets maintain the high-quality craftsmanship and functional design that Griswold is renowned for, making them prized additions to any collection of vintage cast iron cookware.

6. Griswold Large Block Logo With Heat Ring And No Italic Lettering (1920-1930)

The Griswold Large Block Logo with a heat ring and no italic lettering, used from 1920 to 1930, signifies a distinct era in Griswold’s branding and product design.

This logo features the word “GRISWOLD” in a large, blocky font, often accompanied by a heat ring around the skillet’s base. Unlike earlier versions, the lettering is not in italic style, giving it a more bold and straightforward appearance.

Skillets bearing this logo are highly sought after by collectors for their unique aesthetic and historical significance. The large block lettering and inclusion of a heat ring highlight Griswold’s continued focus on functionality and visual appeal.

These skillets represent a period of innovation and refinement in Griswold’s cast iron cookware, making them prized pieces among enthusiasts and collectors of vintage kitchenware.

7. Large Block Logo Without Heat Ring And Italic Lettering (1930-1939)

The Griswold Large Block Logo without a heat ring and italic lettering, used from 1930 to 1939, represents a notable shift in Griswold’s branding and design approach.

This logo features the word “GRISWOLD” in a large, blocky font, but unlike previous versions, it lacks both the heat ring around the skillet’s base and the italicized lettering style.

Skillets bearing this logo are valued by collectors for their distinctiveness within the Griswold timeline. The absence of the heat ring and italic lettering gives these skillets a sleek and modern look compared to earlier iterations.

Despite these changes, Griswold maintained its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, making these skillets highly desirable among enthusiasts of vintage cast iron cookware.

8. Griswold Large Slant Logo Without Heat Ring (1939-1944)

The Griswold Large Slant Logo without a heat ring, used from 1939 to 1944, marks a period of subtle yet significant design refinement in Griswold’s cast iron cookware.

This logo features the word “GRISWOLD” slanted at an angle, but unlike earlier versions, it does not include a heat ring around the skillet’s base.

Skillets bearing this logo are appreciated by collectors for their streamlined appearance and functional design. The absence of the heat ring does not compromise the skillets’ performance; instead, it adds a touch of modernity to Griswold’s classic slant logo.

These skillets showcase Griswold’s continued commitment to quality and innovation, making them prized pieces among enthusiasts of vintage cast iron cookware.

9. Small Block Logo Griswold (1939-1957)

The Small Block Logo Griswold, used from 1939 to 1957, represents a phase in Griswold’s branding that emphasizes simplicity and functionality. This logo features the word “GRISWOLD” in a smaller, block-style font, often without additional decorative elements.

Skillets bearing this logo are valued by collectors for their understated yet timeless design. The small block lettering reflects a shift towards a more straightforward and modern aesthetic while maintaining Griswold’s renowned quality and craftsmanship.

These skillets are prized additions to collections of vintage cast iron cookware, appreciated for their durability, even heating, and classic appeal.

Markings Of Griswold Cast Iron

Griswold cast iron cookware is known for its distinctive markings, which can help identify the age, model, and authenticity of the piece. Here are some examples of common markings found on Griswold cast iron:

Erie Logo

Used from 1880 to 1907, this logo features the word “ERIE” in a bold font, indicating early production.

Example: “GRISWOLD ERIE”

Diamond Logo

Briefly used in 1905-1906, this logo includes a diamond shape with the word “GRISWOLD” inside.

Example: “GRISWOLD” within a diamond shape.

Slant Logo with EPU

Used from 1906 to 1926, this logo has the word “GRISWOLD” slanted at an angle and often includes “EPU” (Erie, Pennsylvania, USA).

Example: “GRISWOLD” with “EPU” below, both slanted.

Slant Logo without Erie

Used from 1909 to 1920, similar to the Slant Logo with EPU but without the “Erie” designation.

Example: “GRISWOLD” without “EPU,” both slanted.

Large Block Logo with Italic Lettering

Used from 1920 to 1930, this logo features “GRISWOLD” in a large, blocky font with italicized lettering.

Example: “GRISWOLD” in large block letters with italicized style.

Large Block Logo without Italic Lettering

Used from 1930 to 1939, similar to the Large Block Logo with Italic Lettering but without the italicized style.

Example: “GRISWOLD” in large block letters without italicized style.

Large Slant Logo without Heat Ring

Used from 1939 to 1944, this logo features “GRISWOLD” slanted at an angle without a heat ring.

Example: “GRISWOLD” without a heat ring, slanted.

Small Block Logo

Used from 1939 to 1957, this logo has “GRISWOLD” in a smaller block-style font.

Example: “GRISWOLD” in small block letters.

These markings, along with other details like pan size numbers and patent dates, can help collectors and enthusiasts identify and date Griswold cast iron pieces accurately.

Purpose Of Griswold Cast Iron

The purpose of Griswold cast iron cookware is multifaceted, rooted in its exceptional durability, heat retention capabilities, and versatility in the kitchen. Here’s a detailed look at the purposes served by Griswold cast iron:

Superior Heat Retention: Griswold cast iron is renowned for its ability to retain heat evenly and effectively. This makes it ideal for tasks that require steady, consistent heat, such as searing meats, frying, baking, and slow cooking.
Even Heat Distribution: The excellent conductivity of cast iron ensures that heat is distributed evenly across the cooking surface. This helps in preventing hot spots and allows for uniform cooking, essential for achieving perfectly cooked dishes.
Versatility: Griswold cast iron cookware is incredibly versatile, capable of being used on various heat sources including stovetops, ovens, grills, and even campfires. This versatility makes it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Non-Stick Properties: Over time, properly seasoned Griswold cast iron develops a natural non-stick surface. This makes it suitable for cooking a wide range of foods without the need for excessive amounts of oil or butter, promoting healthier cooking practices.
Durability and Longevity: Griswold cast iron is known for its durability, with well-maintained pieces lasting for generations. Its robust construction makes it resistant to warping, chipping, and cracking, ensuring that it can withstand heavy use in the kitchen.
Enhanced Flavors: Cooking with Griswold cast iron can enhance the flavors of dishes, thanks to its ability to retain and impart subtle seasoning from previous cooks. This seasoning builds up over time, contributing to the unique character of each dish prepared in the cookware.
Oven-to-Table Presentation: Many Griswold cast iron pieces, such as skillets and Dutch ovens, are designed for oven use. This allows for seamless transitions from stovetop cooking to oven finishing, making them perfect for dishes that require both stovetop searing and oven baking.
Historical and Collectible Value: Beyond its practical purposes, Griswold cast iron holds historical and collectible value. Vintage Griswold pieces, especially those with rare markings or unique designs, are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

Overall, the purpose of Griswold cast iron extends beyond its functionality in the kitchen; it embodies a tradition of quality craftsmanship, timeless design, and culinary excellence that continues to resonate with cooks and collectors alike.

Types Of Griswold Cast Iron Cooking Items

Griswold produced a wide range of cast iron cooking items over the years, catering to various culinary needs and preferences. Here are some of the types of Griswold cast iron cooking items:

Skillets

Griswold skillets are iconic pieces of cast iron cookware known for their exceptional heat retention, even cooking, and versatility in the kitchen.

Available in various sizes, from small to large, Griswold skillets are used for a wide range of cooking tasks, including frying, sautéing, searing, baking, and even serving.

Their flat cooking surface and sturdy construction make them ideal for achieving golden-brown crusts, caramelization, and flavorful sears on meats and vegetables.

Griswold skillets are prized by cooks and collectors alike for their durability, timeless design, and ability to enhance the flavors of dishes over time through proper seasoning and use.

Dutch Ovens

Griswold Dutch ovens are heavyweight cast iron pots with thick walls and tight-fitting lids, designed for slow cooking, braising, stewing, and making soups and sauces.

They excel at evenly distributing heat, ensuring that dishes cook uniformly and retain moisture and flavor. Griswold Dutch ovens come in various sizes to accommodate different cooking needs, from individual servings to large family meals.

Their versatility extends to both stovetop and oven use, making them perfect for recipes that require a seamless transition between cooking methods.

With proper care and seasoning, Griswold Dutch ovens become cherished heirlooms, prized for their durability, cooking performance, and timeless appeal in the kitchen.

Griddles

Griswold griddles are flat, rectangular cast iron pans with smooth cooking surfaces, designed for cooking a variety of foods with ease.

Their large cooking area makes them perfect for preparing breakfast items like pancakes, French toast, eggs, and bacon in batches. Griddles distribute heat evenly across the surface, ensuring consistent cooking results and allowing for even browning.

The sturdy construction of Griswold griddles makes them suitable for use on stovetops, grills, and even campfires, adding versatility to outdoor cooking adventures.

With proper seasoning and care, Griswold griddles develop a natural non-stick surface, making them indispensable tools for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Corn Bread Pans

Griswold corn bread pans are specialty cast iron pans designed specifically for baking cornbread. They typically feature wedge-shaped compartments that give cornbread slices a traditional shape and make serving easier.

The cast iron material ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly baked cornbread with a crispy crust and tender interior.

Griswold corn bread pans are versatile and can also be used for baking other types of bread, cakes, or even creating individual servings of savory dishes like cornbread stuffing or cornmeal-based desserts.

Their durable construction and ability to develop a seasoned, non-stick surface over time make them cherished additions to any kitchen.

Waffle Irons

Griswold waffle irons are classic cast iron cooking tools designed for making delicious, crispy waffles. They feature intricate designs on the cooking surfaces that transfer onto the waffles, creating decorative patterns that enhance the visual appeal of the finished product.

Griswold waffle irons typically have two hinged plates that come together to cook the batter evenly on both sides. The cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution, resulting in golden-brown waffles with a delightful texture.

These waffle irons are versatile and can be used on stovetops or over open flames, making them perfect for outdoor cooking adventures or camping trips.

With proper seasoning and care, Griswold waffle irons develop a non-stick surface that improves with each use, allowing for easy release of waffles without excessive greasing.

They are cherished by home cooks and collectors for their timeless design, durability, and ability to create delicious waffles with distinctive patterns.

Muffin Pans

Griswold muffin pans are essential tools for baking perfect muffins and cupcakes with ease. These pans typically feature multiple compartments, each designed to hold a single muffin or cupcake, allowing for uniform baking and easy serving.

Made from durable cast iron, Griswold muffin pans ensure even heat distribution, resulting in evenly baked treats with golden-brown crusts.

Their sturdy construction makes them suitable for use in ovens, and with proper seasoning and care, they develop a non-stick surface that simplifies the removal of muffins without sticking.

Griswold muffin pans are beloved by home bakers for their reliability, versatility, and ability to create delicious baked goods for any occasion.

Baking Pans

Griswold baking pans encompass a wide range of versatile cast iron cookware designed for various baking tasks. These pans include cake pans, bread pans, pie pans, and roasting pans, among others.

Each type of baking pan is crafted from durable cast iron, ensuring even heat distribution and consistent baking results. Griswold cake pans produce moist and evenly baked cakes with golden crusts, while bread pans create perfectly shaped loaves with crispy crusts.

Pie pans are ideal for making flaky, golden-brown pies, and roasting pans excel at roasting meats and vegetables to perfection.

Griswold baking pans are prized by home cooks and professional chefs for their reliability, durability, and ability to enhance the flavors and textures of baked goods.

With proper seasoning and care, these pans develop a non-stick surface that simplifies food release and cleaning. Whether baking sweet treats or savory dishes, Griswold baking pans are essential tools for achieving delicious results in the kitchen.

Chicken Fryers

Griswold chicken fryers are specialized cast iron pans designed specifically for frying chicken and other foods. These fryers typically feature deep, round pans with high sides and a lid to contain splatters and retain heat.

The cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution, allowing for crispy, golden-brown chicken with juicy and tender meat inside.

Griswold chicken fryers are versatile and can also be used for frying other foods such as fish, potatoes, and vegetables, or for general deep-frying purposes.

Their sturdy handles and durable design make them suitable for use on stovetops or outdoor cooking setups like grills or campfires.

With proper seasoning and care, Griswold chicken fryers develop a non-stick surface that improves with each use, making them ideal for frying without excessive oil or sticking.

These fryers are cherished by home cooks and chefs for their ability to create delicious fried dishes with exceptional flavor and texture.

Camp Ovens

Griswold camp ovens are rugged and versatile cast iron pots designed for outdoor cooking, particularly during camping trips or cooking over open flames.

These ovens typically feature a heavy-duty construction with thick walls, sturdy handles, and a tight-fitting lid to trap heat and moisture. Some camp ovens may also have legs or a bail handle for hanging over a fire.

Griswold camp ovens are ideal for preparing a wide range of meals in the great outdoors, from hearty stews and soups to roasts, casseroles, and even baked goods like bread or desserts.

Their cast iron material ensures even heat distribution, allowing for consistent and flavorful cooking results over campfires or charcoal grills.

With proper seasoning and care, Griswold camp ovens develop a seasoned, non-stick surface that improves with each use.

They are cherished by outdoor enthusiasts for their durability, cooking performance, and ability to create delicious meals in rustic settings, making them essential tools for campfire cooking adventures.

Sizing Of Griswold Cast Iron Cooking Items

Griswold cast iron cooking items come in a range of sizes to accommodate various cooking needs and serving sizes. Here are the common sizes for different Griswold cast iron items:

Skillets: Skillets are available in sizes ranging from small (6 to 8 inches) for individual servings or small dishes to large (10 to 12 inches) for family-sized meals or cooking in batches.
Dutch Ovens: Dutch ovens come in various capacities, typically measured in quarts. Common sizes include 2-quart, 5-quart, and 7-quart Dutch ovens, with larger sizes available for commercial or large-scale cooking.
Griddles: Griddles can vary in size depending on the cooking surface area needed. Common sizes include medium (10 to 12 inches) and large (14 to 16 inches) griddles, suitable for cooking multiple items at once.
Corn Bread Pans: Corn bread pans usually come in standard sizes for baking individual cornbread slices, with compartments sized for single servings.
Waffle Irons: Waffle irons may have different sizes and configurations, including square or round waffles, with sizes ranging from small (individual servings) to large (family-sized).
Muffin Pans: Muffin pans come in standard sizes, typically with 6, 12, or 24 compartments, suitable for baking a variety of muffin or cupcake sizes.
Baking Pans: Baking pans like cake pans, bread pans, pie pans, and roasting pans come in various sizes to accommodate different recipes and serving portions, ranging from small to large sizes based on the intended use.
Chicken Fryers: Chicken fryers come in sizes suitable for frying whole chickens or pieces, with capacities ranging from smaller fryers for individual servings to larger fryers for family meals.
Camp Ovens: Camp ovens are available in different sizes, often measured in quarts or based on the diameter of the pot, to accommodate various camping or outdoor cooking needs.

These sizes are general guidelines, and Griswold may have produced specific sizes or variations based on the model and intended use of each cooking item.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Griswold Cast Iron

Q: Why is Griswold Cast Iron highly sought after by collectors?

A: Griswold Cast Iron is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and durability, making it a prized addition to any collection. Its historical significance and superb cooking performance further elevate its desirability among enthusiasts.

Q: What makes Griswold Cast Iron a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike?

A: Chefs and home cooks love Griswold Cast Iron for its even heat distribution, which results in perfectly cooked dishes every time. Its smooth surface and non-stick properties also make cleaning a breeze, enhancing the cooking experience.

Q: How does Griswold Cast Iron contribute to sustainable cooking practices?

A: Griswold Cast Iron’s longevity and ability to withstand high heat reduce the need for frequent replacements, promoting sustainability in the kitchen. Its versatility allows for a wide range of cooking methods, minimizing the need for multiple cookware pieces.

Q: What sets Griswold Cast Iron apart from other cast iron brands?

A: Griswold’s meticulous attention to detail during manufacturing ensures consistent quality and performance. Its classic design and heritage appeal add a touch of nostalgia to modern kitchens, making it a standout choice for discerning cooks.

Q: Can Griswold Cast Iron be passed down through generations?

A: Yes, Griswold Cast Iron is often cherished as a family heirloom due to its enduring quality. With proper care, these timeless pieces can be enjoyed by future generations, creating lasting culinary traditions.

Q: How does using Griswold Cast Iron enhance the flavor of food?

A: The excellent heat retention of Griswold Cast Iron ensures consistent cooking temperatures, allowing flavors to develop beautifully. Its natural seasoning builds up over time, imparting a rich depth of flavor to dishes.

Q: What makes Griswold Cast Iron a versatile cookware choice?

A: Griswold Cast Iron’s ability to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly makes it ideal for a wide range of recipes. From searing meats to baking bread, its versatility shines in various cooking applications.

Q: How does Griswold Cast Iron contribute to a healthier cooking experience?

A: Unlike non-stick coatings that may degrade over time, Griswold Cast Iron’s seasoned surface becomes naturally non-stick, reducing the need for added fats or oils. This promotes healthier cooking practices without compromising on flavor.

Q: What makes Griswold Cast Iron a timeless classic in the kitchen?

A: Griswold Cast Iron’s timeless appeal stems from its durability, reliability, and versatility. Its ability to withstand high temperatures and retain heat makes it a go-to choice for generations of cooks seeking exceptional performance.

Q: How does Griswold Cast Iron enhance the cooking experience for outdoor enthusiasts?

A: Griswold Cast Iron’s rugged construction and heat retention make it perfect for outdoor cooking adventures. Whether camping, grilling, or cooking over an open flame, its durability and consistent cooking results elevate outdoor dining to a whole new level.

Conclusion

Griswold Cast Iron holds a timeless legacy in the world of cookware, cherished by culinary enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Its unmatched craftsmanship, durability, and exceptional heat retention have made it a symbol of quality and tradition in kitchens worldwide.

From its historic origins to its enduring popularity among chefs, Griswold Cast Iron continues to stand as a testament to the artistry and enduring appeal of cast iron cookware.

Whether used for everyday cooking or proudly displayed as a treasured heirloom, Griswold Cast Iron embodies a legacy of culinary excellence that transcends generations.

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