CLEVELAND, Ohio — Get your red on — tomorrow is National Wear Red Day for awareness of heart disease. On the first Friday in February, everyone is encouraged to consider the importance of taking care of their heart health.
Eat right, exercise and monitor your stress.
Along the health theme, even in the 1800s copper utensils stood center stage for food preparation. Large copper kettles offered a perfect campfire setup for cooking apple butter.
Iron handles completed the coppersmith’s creation, while tea kettles beckoned to all when they roared. Copper’s property radiates more evenly than brass, so it became more functional.
Then there are juicers, which today are very different from the devises used many years ago. They were made of wrought iron, ceramic, glass, metal or wood. Many of the wood pieces were hand whittled, some taking on novelty shapes of animals.
Today, Vitamix blenders, made here in North Olmsted, are shipped all over the world. They are highly recommended and can last for years.
Old wooden ware also can be very decorative for display. Maple sugar candy molds, coffee grinders, bread bowls, spoons and utensils all contribute to a functional kitchen, but also add atmosphere for vintage styling.
A simple oil for cleaning helps to maintain the patina.
Get your spice rack filled with fresh herbs and spices and enjoy in good health!
Hi Yenke Peddler,
This little cast iron pot measures 3 inches by 2 ¼ inches and has tripod legs and a handmade wire handle. It is not signed or stamped, but is heavy. I love it for incense or just for decorating. Any value here?
S.T.
Hi Shirley,
Your cast iron cauldron could even be a toothpick holder along with its use as an incense burner. It has a nice patina, dating to the vintage era. I would value it at $25 and up.
If you have an item for evaluation, send a clear picture with history to Yenke Peddler, Brenda Yenke, P.O. Box 361633, Strongsville, Ohio, 44136. You may also email photos and information requests for Brenda to evaluate at kenyenke@aol.com.