We’ve posted about our cast iron figures many times. To see other posts, VISIT HERE.
Cast Iron Banks
Several of our cast-iron figures are actually banks. Great way to encourage a little saver to collect those coins found on the sidewalk!
The lion is a cast iron bank. The others are outstanding cast iron paperweights or perfect for a shelf!
Cast iron dog figures. The one on the right is also a bank.
cast iron cow
Closer detail of the fox and the lion cast iron figures
Are these just the cutest cast iron dog figurines!
Here, at Bahoukas Antiques, we have a wonderfully diverse collection of cast iron figures that also include mechanical banks and huge door knockers. Some are vintage and very collectible, while others are reproductions. All of them are beautiful! Stop in soon. Yeppir, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
A selection of cast iron skillets and more at Bahoukas
The History of Cast Iron Cookware
The first known use of cast iron cookware was during the Han Dynasty in China, around 220 A.D. Casting techniques became widespread in Europe by the 16th century, and since then, this versatile equipment has been a staple in households all over the world. In 1707, Abraham Darby patented the sand casting method, which is similar to the way we make cast iron today. Because of Darby’s contribution, the 18th and 19th centuries saw a boom in cast iron cookware. Cast iron pots and pans were so important to daily life that in his book, The Wealth of Nations, Adam Smith says they were worth more than gold. Cast iron cookware saw a decline in the 20th century as other cooking materials like aluminum grew in popularity.
Many pieces that seem too difficult to clean-up may be handled with several soakings in vinegar. That and other suggestions are in the following video.
A very informative video re cast iron pans
We have several cast iron cooking/baking pieces that will be great in your home, at the hunting lodge, or to use on your campfire!
Cast iron cookware has been around forever, and it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. If you want to get in on this trend, follow these tips and you’ll be whipping up pan-seared steaks and skillet cornbread in no time.
Mechanical banks were first manufactured in the late 1800s, as the middle class emerged and grew in prosperity during the Industrial Revolution. Hence, the concept of earning and saving money became more and more important, particularly as a value to impart to children. At the same time, Victorian Era tinkerers were experimenting with mechanical technology, including spring-driven and windup devices.
The era also saw a shift in how toys were made. Originally crafted out of wood and cloth, more and more toys were fabricated out of cast-iron and mass-produced in factories, giving their adult creators a chance to express their commentaries on daily life.
At Bahoukas, we have a variety of antique and reproduction cast iron figures and banks. Stop in to see us and add one to your collection. Absolutely, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
Doors had replaced hangings to provide better safety and privacy, and upper-class Greeks had slaves whose sole purpose was to answer the door.
It’s a bit like having a butler, but one that was chained to the door to prevent them wandering off. If they didn’t die of boredom, they’d fall asleep, and so to wake them up, visitors rapped the door with a short bar of iron attached to a chain.
It wasn’t long before some Greeks realized the short bar made a good weapon with which to attack the householder. So property owners fought back with new technology.
The knocker evolved into a heavy ring fastened to the door by a plate—dual purpose knocker and handle!
One of the most enduring themes for knockers has been the lion’s head. Traditionally regarded as the king of beasts, the lion’s head symbolizes bravery, nobility, strength, and valor.
Lion’s head knockers were popular in the American colonies up until the revolution when the Eagle took precedence.
This beautifully painted rooster sits atop a large dinner bell that needs to be mounted to a wall. It’s an absolutely gorgeous piece.
Cast-Iron Figures for every decor!
We have an eclectic assortment of cast-iron figures (old and new), bottle openers, door knockers, and cast-iron mechanical banks.
These are just a few samplings. From lobsters to ladybugs, mermaids to Michelin men, flying pigs to turtles, well, you’ll just have to come and see for yourself. We’re sure you’ll find the perfect addition to your collection or for your decorating idea. Yep, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
These cast iron kettles are a size 4 and 8. The larger is a Jos Bell & Co.
Heat On? Fireplaces Working?
It’s the season where we begin to crank up the heat. Along with the warm and cozy fireplaces and pellet stoves or even just the welcome heat from your furnace, dry air starts to affect our comfort. Many folks love to put a kettle of water on the stove and let it add a bit of humidity to create a more comfortable – and healthy – home!
These two kettles are definitely up to the task. Come see them for yourself. We also have a number of other cast iron items waiting for you to consider.
Might You Be A Hunter?
Electric Wellsaw model 400 for cutting meat – from the 1950s
Along with cooler temps, it’s also hunting season. This 1950 Wellsaw model 400 electric saw is for cutting meat. It does work.
You know, here at Bahoukas Antique Mall and Beer MuZeum, you just never know what our ‘collector of collections’ might have in the shop. So hurry in and enjoy a look back while considering how you might use these very collections to make your life forward a bit easier or more fun.
Yep, we’re here – ready to help you find the most unique of holiday gifts. And we’re watchin’ for ya!
This set of cobbler’s shoe repair stands would make a very interesting display in the right setting.
Sausage Press/Juice Press
This press has been painted, but it’s really beautiful!
This press isn’t exactly the one we have, but you get the idea. It’s also been powder-coated for durability and looks amazing!
A unique cigar press
A small cast iron cigar press.
How’s it Done? Creating cigars, as you may know, is a process that takes months and even years. After our sweet tobacco leaves are primed from the fields, they are sorted, cured, fermented, sorted again, and bunched. It is here that we differ from the regular cigar and get into box-press. Once ‘bunched’, the filler is rolled in its binder; a standard cigar will be pressed into shape in a mold and this will be its final shape. The molds are stacked sometimes 25 high for an allotted time. The stacking allows for pressure to be distributed evenly. From here the cigar is trimmed and paired with its wrapper. Where box-pressing differs is the compression methods used to make the iconic square shape. Box-pressing is only ever done on a stronger leaf; a broadleaf wrapper is far too delicate to withstand the pressing process.
Standard Box-Pressing This method is very similar to pressing your regular cigar. Once the screaming newborn stogie has its wrapper, it’s snugly placed in its box, while multiple boxes are stacked and placed on a manually controlled press with just enough pressure to form a tight seal and avoid breakage.
So as you see, here at Bahoukas Antique Mall, you just never know what you’ll find. Stop by soon and see these unique vintage tools for yourself. Great collectibles, unique items, and definitely conversation starters! Yep, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
We have some wonderful critters to decorate your home or even your office! This piggy bank is cast iron and probably at least a foot long. What a great way to keep that door open and let the cool breeze in while having a great place to put all that loose change!
Mary had a little lamb… and so did Bahoukas!
Lifesize kitty cat … don’t you just love it!
The lamb, geese, and cat are ceramic. But oh, so cute! Surely there’s a special little space that one or two would work perfectly!
The dog is cast iron. We have a wide variety of cast iron pieces for shelf or floor, as well as some doorstoppers.
The cast iron heron is perfecting for our area. But, then again, anyone who loves herons will find the perfect spot for it. Have a water view from your home? This would be a wonderful addition to your decor. Wish you had a water view? This wonderful statue could help remind you of the joy you feel when you’re near the water.
Just a sampling of the fun items you’ll find at Bahoukas Antique Mall & Beer MuZeum in Havre de Grace, MD. Stop in and discover a perfect collectible from the ‘Collector of Collections.’ Yep, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
You’ve heard that, right? It’s called an adynation!
The phrase “when pigs fly” (alternatively, “pigs might fly”) is an adynaton—a figure of speech so hyperbolic that it describes an impossibility. The implication of such a phrase is that the circumstances in question (the adynaton, and the circumstances to which the adynaton is being applied) will never occur. from Wikipedia
We have a fairly large variety of vintage and reproduction cast iron pieces, including our “FLYING PIG!”
Use these hefty fellows as a doorstop, by your fireplace, or just a fun decoration and conversation piece. Here are a couple more pics:
Along with these great reproduction cast iron pieces, you’ll find a number of vintage and collectible cast iron items.
It couldn’t be any more fun than this! So drop by Bahoukas Antique Mall and choose your favorite from our vintage and reproduction collections of cast iron figures. Yessiree, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
Cast iron farm animals may be truly vintage and collectible – or reproductions. Above is a ‘flying pig’, a boy milking a cow, a pig, rooster, buffalo and a horse. We have many other collectible/vintage/and reproduction cast iron pieces from beautiful mermaids to Black Americana pieces, huge lighthouse doorstop to mechanical banks.
So for the collector on your gift list, or a unique gift for the farm-loving child, we have some very intriguing cast iron figures. Stop by Bahoukas Antique Mall to browse our 9,000 sq ft overflowing with unique ideas for gift giving! We’ll be watchin’ for ya!
Last week we shared a gallery of photos to encourage you to look UP when browsing the shop. With items on high shelves and even hanging from the ceiling, you’ll definitely want to look UP.
But this week we share that LOOKING down is equally valuable while browsing Bahoukas Antique Mall. This gallery is a glimpse of just why you might want to notice lower shelves for more surprises!
This is just a quick peek at the variety of items waiting to be discovered when you remember to LOOK down!!!
With the various holidays coming up, we’re a really fun shop to browse for unique gifts and decorating ideas. We’re here and you can be sure, we’re watchin’ for ya! Stop by and browse.
Our little cast iron garden critters would be so much fun tucked away amid your flowers – or even your veggies! Come take a peek. We also have a cast iron sundial. Now wouldn’t THAT make a statement?
cast iron sundial – perfect for your yard or garden
Maybe you’re planning a picnic!
Whether it’s on your deck or at your favorite park, check out this unusual item.
non-electric Ice-O-Mat ice crusher – perfect take-a-long on your camping trip.
This pitcher and glass set for your favorite drink are sure to be appreciated! Crabs anyone!!!
Glass and Pitcher set – GMAD Baltimore – “Chessie” the quality crab
Okay, just a few ideas. And you already know, we’re here – and we’re watchin’ for ya! Have a safe holiday weekend.
According to Fashion Magazine, the latest trends include ‘Grandma Core’. And Pinterest Business says the trends are ‘Hipstoric Homes’ and ‘Home Front.’ Let’s see what those trends include and then stop in and visit us.
‘Grandma Core’
Lace, Vintage Clothes, jewelry, and more are popular as the new trend – ‘Grandma Core’
Believe it or not, grandma is back!!! Think chunky sweaters, slim belts, the perfect old-as-new hat, and the perfect piece of jewelry from grandma’s well-curated collection. oooo-la-la
Just a sampling of jewelry to develop your new wardrobe trend
Sitting on her bed, I relished examining the antique wooden triptych mirror, which sat adorned with hanging pendants and delicate silver chains. Her shelf was cluttered with colourful trinkets and tiny boxes that spilled open to reveal little treasures gathered over time. To me, it was the picture of personal style carefully cultivated through the decades. This is the ethos of grandmother fashion, which is set to be a defining trend in 2023.
Antiques are chic – yep, they’re back and they’re popular.
Beautiful milkglass collection
And ‘eclectic’ is the perfect approach to the new trend of joining the old with the new! Maybe you’d like to enjoy your iced tea in a favorite ‘character glass.’
character glasses – we have hundreds
This trend is best described by this line from Pinterest Business:
Soulful spaces that merge self-expression and historical nostalgia.
Serve your favorite cake and cookies on a cute vintage dish:
covered cake dish
cake plates and more
beautiful glass servers and cake plates
This trend includes tchotchkes of all kinds, mixing new and old and appreciating both.
dog figruinesfan for the wall and moreoil lampshen on the nestPorcelain angels and ladies1930s keyspink depression glassvintage train cases
This new trend may be the perfect way to blend all the things you love, creating a ‘home’ that truly says, “Welcome.”
Home Front
We’ve always believed that sitting on the front porch is so very welcoming. Actually, here in Havre de Grace, many folks still enjoy their front porches and are quite comfortable saying, “Hello,” as you walk by. It’s a great way to get to know your neighbor or make a new friend.
The backyard has had its moment—it’s time to serve the greeter good. In 2023, the front porch will get the spotlight treatment. Rising searches suggest Boomers and Gen X will adorn their entrances with elaborate decor and embellishments.
Adding a crock filled with long-stemmed Pampas Grass or a real fern is a beautiful and inviting look by the doorway of your front porch.
salt glazed stoneware crocks
A comfy chair or maybe a chess set will add to the welcoming look and encourage folks to linger awhile and chat.
A great way to hang out on your front porch:
Fun and funky chess/checker sets with mosaic tables created by Barbara. (Note: all of these are not presently available)
There’s really no limit to the fun ways to say ‘welcome’ when adding a bit of your favorite items to your front porch. From a favorite chair to a ‘flying pic,’ and just about everything in between, stopping by Bahoukas Antique Mall is a delightful way to add to your decor.
White flying pig on a bell – all in cast iron
flying pig in cast iron
So whether it’s Grandma Core, Hipstoric Homes, or the new Home Front styling, a stop at Bahoukas is worth your time. And you know, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
Not only do you want to look down and all around but you’ll definitely want to look UP. After all, some of the best discoveries are hanging from the ceiling!
It’s the weekend before Valentine’s Day and we thought we’d share a sampling of our small and large treasures to be discovered in our shop. Find that special something for your special someone.
Stop in and browse. Find the special Valentine’s Day gift (or maybe a little something for yourself). Hurry. You’ll enjoy the SuperBowl a lot more if you’ve finished your shopping! And yes, we’re here and we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
With the amazing Kentucky Derby Race featuring the winner, Rich Strike, we thought we’d share a few of our horse-y collectibles today! Just to remind you of this amazing race (who didn’t even get picked to run until the day before the race!), here’s the video from NBC Sports.
We have a few wonderful Horse Collectibles
From a number of toy items to beautiful figurines, horses always seem to inspire. Do you have a youngster that’s saving for their first horse? Check out this latest addition to our horse category!
Beautiful cast iron horse bank!
Horse figures – from Jadeite to cast iron.
The above figurines are the latest entries to our horse collection – including plastic, ceramic, bronze, Jadeite, and cast iron. Also check out the TOY AREA for a few more great choices of horse figures.
CLICK HERE for one of our great posts from May 2018 – talkin’ ’bout horses!
It looks like a bit of rain off and on this weekend. If you’re ducking the raindrops, stop in and visit. We’ll be watchin’ for ya (and yes, we even have a few great umbrellas you can purchase)!
It’s our final suggestion from our many collections in our shop. Just a few samplings to give you help with your last-minute shopping for Mom.
Elvis?
Elvis Collectible
Many older moms loved Elvis. Would your mom love an Elvis Collectible? We have a great assortment for you to choose from.
Jewelry?
We have a huge selection of jewelry – reasonable costume jewelry to some fine gold and silver pieces. Are the kids looking to find something special? Stop by and browse our aisles!
Dishware and more…
There’s no way we can show you all the dishware pieces that we have in the shop. But if you’re looking for just a special piece, we’ll help you find it.
Knives-Forks-Spoons-oh my!
Silverware service
This is just one example of our collection of silverware. This is a beautiful set.
Cast Iron Cookware
cast iron cookware
We have a collection of cast iron pans, kettles, and more. Would mom appreciate one of them? Stop by soon…
Hats
Okay, so this is veering a bit from cookware… but hey, we never know what YOUR MOM might like.
Oil Lamps?
Oil Lamps
These are just 3 of hundreds of oil lamps available in our shop! You’ll be so surprised to see the variety we offer.
…and even more variety of choice
We’re Here…
and we’re watchin’ for ya. We even have umbrellas should you need one! In the meantime, let us help you with your last-minute gift for MOM!
This amazing 1906 Star Coaster wagon is approximately 40″ in length with spoked, cast iron wheels. It’s a beautiful piece that we believe may have more recently been painted black. Come see this piece. It’s in our front display window. And it’s a beauty!
Beautiful Wooden Nail Keg
In excellent condition, this beautiful wooden nail keg is 18″ in diameter and 29″ tall with metal hoops. We believe it’s from the 1960s. You can see it in our front display window sitting on the beautiful Star Coaster Wagon.
These two pieces are in excellent condition. Surely, you have the perfect location and use for one or both. Stop in soon to view them. Chat with George. You know we’re watchin’ for ya!
Dads carried metal tins with lunch to their jobs in the coal mines and factories. Of course, it wasn’t long before their children wanted to copy their dads.
… the first commercial lunch boxes, which resembled metal picnic baskets decorated with scenes of playing children, came out in 1902.
The first lunch box decorated with a famous licensed character was introduced in 1935. Produced by Geuder, Paeschke & Frey, it featured Mickey Mouse, and was a four-color lithographed oval tin, with a pull-out tray inside. It had no vacuum bottle, but did have a handle.
In 1950, Aladdin Industries created the first children’s lunch box based on a television show, Hopalong Cassidy. The Hopalong Cassidy lunch kit, or “Hoppy”, quickly became Aladdin’s cash cow. Debuting in time for back-to-school 1950, it would go on to sell 600,000 units in its first year alone, each at US$2.39. In 1953, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were featured on models introduced by American Thermos.
Huge collection of decorated lunchboxes in plastic and metal
Many of the latest additions are complete with thermoses as well. Do stop in and check it out. They are a great last-minute gift for a child in your life – or your favorite collector. Remember, not just great for lunch, but fun for picnics, playing, keeping treasures, and more.
School Desks
Beautiful wooden and cast iron school desk.
The above desk is in beautiful condition. We also have another as pictured below:
Another beautiful wood school desk.
Another choice is this wood desk:
The front of the desk had the bench for the desk that sat in front of it
1881: The Fashion School Desk
The First Model
The first school desk was made in 1880 by John D. Loughlin in Sidney, Ohio. The desk, known as “The Fashion Desk,” proved to be extremely popular across the country. The practicality of the desks allowed for many to be put together in a one room schoolhouse, and the fashion aspect of it was aesthetically pleasing to those in the education industry. Loughlin’s marketing campaign also helped to sell these desks, which would eventually sweep the nation. The “Fashion Desks” were desks attached to one another and were big enough to seat two or three children. Usually, there was an inkwell so that the student could replenish his pen’s supply.
The Sidney School Furniture Company, located in Sidney, Ohio, began manufacturing the popular “Fashion” school desk in 1881. Advertising for the desk claimed, “No desk in the market is made with more care, nor of better materials than the ‘Fashion,’ and none has met with a more popular reception, or gives better satisfaction.” The desk featured a Patent T-head, which eliminated screws and bolts by joining the wood of the top, back, and seat to the legs, which were made of cast iron.
… with writing pad. These are solid and have a shelf on the bottom to place books and bags.
So whether it’s a lunchbox or a school desk, we can add a last-minute ‘surprise’ to your holiday gift-giving. Hurry in. We’re watchin’ for ya so that we can help you with your last-minute searches. Don’t forget, we DO CLOSE for Christmas Day and New Years Day. (Give us a call to be sure we didn’t leave early on the eve of both!) Happy Holidays!
