Question:
I have a 20 gallon Red Wing cooler / crock with spigot. I believe it dates to around 1890, but have recently received information indicating that it might be more from around 1909-1919 based on the glaze and the big red wing. Could you please help me in dating this piece and perhaps what it might be worth. I inherited from my Dad who had it from when he and mom inherited Grandma’s antique store some years ago. This wonderful cooler/crock measures 20 ¼ inches in overall height, the base is 18 ¾ inches in diameter, the top is 19 inches from outside rim to outside rim and 16 7/8 inches from inside rim to inside rim. This crock/cooler weighs approximately 50 pounds. I believe it has a salt glaze to it and aside from the oxidation on the brass spigot and the fitting (or seal) for the hole (spigot) needing to be replaced, there are only a couple of small cracks visible and they are NOT through and through just surface cracks. I remember years ago this cooler used to have a lid, but unfortunately, it did get broken. Anything you could tell me about it would be most helpful. Thank you, Connie

ANswer: Connie, your 20 gallon Red Wing crock with spigot hole was produced between 1909 & 1915. The spigot hole does not add much to any additional value to your crock. The way it sits, the value is right around $200. Nice piece! Al Kohlman