Question:
I found this piece and am not sure what it is but was assured it was red wing. The lidlettering (which is very difficult to read) says STONEWARE and what appears to be MINNESOTA- but it is very difficult to tell. There are some other letterings on the lid as well as just decorative lines. On the base of the crock are what appears to be S6 o2, or it could be S6 82. The crock itself stands 7 1/4" high and with the lid on it is 9" at the highest point. It measures 5.5" Wide. It has a clear glaze and one patched area on the lid edge appx. 1" x 2.5" that is well done but unglazed. There are some faint crackles within the glazing. Otherwise it is in excellent condition. Can you please advise as to what this is, appx age and value-Or, where I may find more information on it. Also, where I could sell it. I could proved more detailed pictures and closeups of the lid letterings if needed. Thanks much. Teresa Zanella

Answer: Teresa, I don’t believe your ball locking jar is Red Wing. I am quite sure it was produced by the Western Stoneware Company. These ball locking jars were used for canning in the 1920′s & 30′s. Value would be in the $20 to $30 range. More information can be found in the Monmouth-Western Stoneware book by Jim Martin. Al Kohlman