Question:
I wanted to know if these are Red Wing Fancy jugs. The smallest one is 2 1/2 inches tall and is marked Betis & Johnson, Fort Smith Arkansas on the front. There is no marking on the bottom. The second has a paper label that reads Bourbon Whiskey The Sanford Pharmacy 8 Main Street Boonville, NY and is marked R.W. S.W. Co on the bottom. It is 4 inches tall and has some glaze skips and a small chip at the bottom. I was guessing from the website that this might be a 1/8 and 1/4 pint, but the 4 inch jug holds about 1/2 pint completely full. I would love to know more about these! Thanks!

Answer: The little jugs you have are called Red Wing mini jugs. The 1/2 pint with the RWSW marking on the bottom, stands for Red Wing Stoneware. And yes they are both Red Wing. The Red Wing Stoneware Company began producing these mini jugs as early as 1909. They were ordered by companies to promoted, commemorate or celebrate an event or holiday. They were also given away as a company product during conventions, fairs and even football games. The intent was to serve as a reminder of the product or occasion by the company who gave them to the customer. These mini jugs (especially those with printed advertising under the glaze) are very collectible among the Red Wing collectors. I love that little 1/8 pint!!!!!!! Al Kohlman