Question:
Hi- I found this 20 gallon Union Stoneware crock at a thrift store for $50 yesterday. It has 2 cracks on either side that start from the top rim and end midway to the bottom of the crock. It is not very smooth- almost seems as if it was outside for a time. I haven’t cleaned it up yet, either. What year was this made? How did I do with my $50 purchase? Jennifer

Answer: Jennifer, your 20 gallon crock was manufactured by the Minnesota Stoneware Company between 1895 & 1906. Cleaned up and with the two cracks, the crock would still be worth $100. Any time you can double your money, it’s a good thing! Al Kohlman