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The underside carries the desirable raised markings:
VOLLRATH
WARE
8
Fully marked Vollrath skillets are considerably more desirable than the many unmarked examples encountered today. This one also features a raised outer heat ring, twin pouring spouts, an elongated hanging opening and Vollrath’s characteristically graceful reinforced handle.
At only approximately 4.7 pounds, it is notably lighter and more refined than most modern No. 8 skillets. The interior cooking surface has the smooth, finely finished character collectors and serious cast-iron cooks seek—no coarse, pebbly modern casting here.
Most importantly, the skillet sits completely flat with no spin and no wobble, making it an excellent candidate for use on gas, electric and appropriately handled glass-top ranges.
Date and Maker
Manufactured by The Vollrath Company of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, one of America’s important historic cookware manufacturers.
Based on the fully marked Vollrath Ware logo, heat-ring construction, handle form and casting style, this example most likely dates to approximately:
Circa 1930–1940
Vollrath traces its roots to Jacob J. Vollrath’s cookware operation established in Sheboygan during the 19th century. By the early 20th century, the company was producing durable American kitchenware for domestic and institutional use. During World War II, Vollrath increasingly shifted toward defense production, making this likely a prewar American skillet.
Measurements
- Size: No. 8
- Diameter: Approximately 10½ inches
- Height: Approximately 2¼ inches
- Weight: Approximately 4.7 pounds
- Features: Heat ring, twin pouring spouts and hanging handle
Condition
Excellent restored vintage condition. The skillet has been cleaned and seasoned and presents with a rich, even dark finish.
- Sits flat
- No spin
- No wobble
- Smooth cooking surface
- Fully legible raised Vollrath Ware markings
- No cracks
- No repairs
- No noted chips or serious casting damage
- Cleaned, seasoned and ready for continued use
Normal minor casting irregularities and subtle evidence of age remain, as expected from authentic early American cast iron. Please examine all photographs closely—they form an important part of the condition description.
This is both a genuinely useful everyday skillet and a particularly handsome example for the serious American cast-iron collection.
