Cody Casey
Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) cast iron pans are not considered collectible by most. However, some BSR pieces are considered rare and are sought after by collectors, such as the Handy Dan Cornstick Pan and the No. 14 skillet. BSR cast iron pans are known for their smooth interior cooking surface and heavy-duty construction, making them popular for daily use. The company rarely put its name on its cookware, but there are some clues to identify genuine BSR pieces, such as a continuous heat ring with no notches on the bottom of the pan and a V-shaped underside of the handle. BSR pans can be found on marketplaces like Etsy, where they are often sold as vintage items or for camping and cooking outdoors.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Foundry | Birmingham Stove & Range Company |
| Location | North Birmingham, Alabama |
| Foundry Years | Over 75 years |
| Peak of Production | Mid-1970s |
| Foundry Status | No longer exists |
| Foundry Distinction | Largest-producing cast-iron foundry in the US and possibly the world |
| Pans' Interior Cooking Surface | Smooth |
| Pans' Construction | Heavy-duty |
| Pans' Bottom | Continuous heat ring with no notches |
| Pans' Handle Underside | V-shaped |
| Pans' Size | Given in a fractional number (e.g. 10¼ inches) |
| Collectible Status | Not considered collectible by most |
| Collectible Exceptions | Some pieces enjoy collectible status; Frank's Handy Dan Cornstick Pan is a rare find among collectors |
| Etsy | Sells BSR cast iron with free shipping |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
BSR cast iron products are available on Etsy
While BSR cast iron products are not considered collectible by most, they are available on Etsy and can represent excellent value as "user" pans, usually obtained at a fraction of the price of comparable fully-marked ones.
Etsy is a global marketplace for unique and creative goods, and many of the BSR cast iron products sold on the site qualify for free shipping. Some of the BSR cast iron products available on Etsy include the Wagner Ware Deep Fat Fryer, the Rare Griswold 10 Cast Iron Extra Deep Skillet, and the Birmingham 2 Quart Cast Iron Sauce/Stew Pot with Lid.
Reviews for BSR cast iron products on Etsy are generally positive, with customers praising the quality and uniqueness of the items. Some customers have also commented on the excellent communication and fast delivery provided by sellers.
In addition to the BSR cast iron products themselves, Etsy also offers a range of related items, such as personalized, made-to-order cast iron gifts and BBQ cooking swing arms for outdoor cooking.
Whether you are a collector or simply looking for a sturdy and affordable pan for daily use, BSR cast iron products on Etsy can be a great option to consider. With a range of products, positive reviews, and convenient shipping options, Etsy is a one-stop shop for all your BSR cast iron needs.
Lasagna Layering: Perfectly Layering Lasagna in a Pan
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Birmingham Stove & Range rarely put its name on its cookware
Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) was a foundry based in Alabama that produced holloware until the 1960s. During its operation, the company manufactured a full line of cookware products under various brand names, including Red Mountain, Century, Pioneer, and Lady Bess. While BSR cookware was known for its thicker-walled skillets and heavy-duty construction, it is not considered highly collectible by most enthusiasts. However, some BSR pieces can be found on marketplaces like Etsy and eBay, indicating a level of interest in these items.
One possible reason why BSR cookware is not widely collected could be the lack of prominent branding or markings on the pieces. While vintage cookware enthusiasts seek out specific brands and markings, BSR pieces often lacked distinct identification. Early BSR catalogues featured "stove spiders" (an early term for skillets with legs) that were listed only with inch measurements instead of nominal stove eye sizes. Later catalogues listed stove spiders in sizes 7, 8, and 9 but lacked specific brand associations.
Additionally, BSR's product lines were replaced over time, which may have contributed to the lack of collectability. The Red Mountain series, produced in the 1930s and 1940s, was eventually replaced by the Century series in the 1950s. This transition in branding could have diluted the distinct identity of BSR's cookware lines.
It's worth noting that unmarked cast iron cookware, including some BSR pieces, can still hold value for collectors. While they may not be considered highly collectible, these unmarked pieces can be excellent "user" pans, offering comparable performance to fully-marked vintage cookware at a fraction of the price. For practical cooks, the smooth interior cooking surface and heavy-duty construction of BSR cookware make them ideal for daily use, even if they are not the primary focus of collectors.
Lasagna Pan Depth: How Deep is Too Deep?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
BSR Red Mountain skillets are highly versatile
While BSR skillets are not considered collectible by most, they are highly versatile. BSR, or Birmingham Stove & Range, was an Alabama-based foundry that produced holloware into the 1960s. They are known for their thicker-walled skillets, similar to Lodge skillets, that are great for searing meats and balanced heating.
The BSR Red Mountain skillet, in particular, is a highly versatile piece of cookware. It is a sturdy skillet that can be used over a campfire, making it perfect for camping and hiking trips. Its thick walls and heavy-duty construction make it a great option for searing meats and achieving balanced heating. The smooth nature of the interior cooking surface also makes it ideal for cooking cornbread.
The BSR Red Mountain skillets are also quite distinctive in their design. They typically feature a V-shaped handle, with some skillets having a handle that ends in a shape resembling an ice cream scoop. The skillets also have a unique marking system, with size numbers and pattern letters that can be found in various positions on the pan. For example, the corn bread skillets were marked with either 6CBS or 8CBS, indicating their size.
These skillets are highly sought-after by those who appreciate their functionality and durability. While they may not be considered collectible by some, they are definitely a favourite among those who use them regularly. Whether it's for cooking over a campfire or searing a steak, the BSR Red Mountain skillet is a versatile and reliable piece of cookware.
Hex Clad Pans: Safe or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
BSR cast iron is ideal for outdoor cooking
Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) cast iron may not be considered collectible by most, but it is ideal for outdoor cooking. Its heavy-duty construction and smooth interior cooking surface make it a great option for cooking over a campfire.
BSR cast iron is known for its durability and heat retention, making it perfect for outdoor cooking where even heat distribution is essential. The heavy-duty construction ensures that the pans can withstand the high temperatures of an open fire, and the smooth interior surface makes cleaning and maintenance easy, even when away from the conveniences of indoor cooking.
One of the advantages of BSR cast iron is its versatility. The same pan can be used for a variety of dishes, from grilled cheese sandwiches to browning meat, and even cakes and casseroles. This versatility is ideal for outdoor cooking, where bringing multiple pans may not be feasible. BSR's Red Mountain Series skillets, for example, are perfect for outdoor cooking due to their size and shape, which allow for even cooking and easy handling over a campfire.
Additionally, BSR cast iron pieces are often unmarked, bearing no name or identifying marks. While this makes identifying the pieces challenging for collectors, it adds to their charm and uniqueness. BSR's lack of branding on its cookware sets it apart from other manufacturers, making its pieces stand out in a collector's collection.
Finally, BSR cast iron is a great option for those seeking affordable and functional outdoor cooking equipment. While they may not be considered highly collectible, BSR pieces can often be obtained at a fraction of the price of comparable marked items, making them an excellent value for those seeking quality outdoor cooking gear.
Cleaning and Re-Seasoning Cast Iron Pans: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
BSR products are not considered collectible by most
Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) products are not considered collectible by most. However, some BSR products are considered rare and unique by avid cast-iron cookware collectors. For example, Frank's Handy Dan Cornstick Pan, which was only made for a few years, is a rare find among collectors. Additionally, Lee Campbell, an Alabama collector of cast-iron cookware, considers his BSR Red Mountain Series No. 8 skillet to be a rare and unique find.
There are a few reasons why BSR products may not be considered collectible by most. One reason could be that BSR rarely put its name on its cookware, making it difficult to identify genuine BSR pieces. Only three pieces labelled "Birmingham Stove & Range" are known to exist: an ashtray, a waffle iron, and the Sportsman Grill. Another reason could be that BSR products were produced for daily use rather than as collectibles. The smooth nature of the interior cooking surface and heavy-duty construction of BSR products make them practical and functional pans for everyday cooking.
Furthermore, BSR products may not have the same level of name recognition as other cast-iron cookware brands. Despite being the largest-producing cast-iron foundry in the United States, and possibly the world, at its peak in the mid-1970s, BSR is not well-known today. Even avid collectors of cast-iron cookware may not be familiar with the company. This lack of brand recognition could contribute to the perception that BSR products are not collectible.
However, it is worth noting that unmarked cast-iron cookware, including BSR products, can still have value and be obtained at a fraction of the price of comparable fully-marked pieces. While they may not be considered collectible by most, BSR products can represent excellent value as "user" pans that are well-suited for daily cooking.
Get Glossy Black Carbon Steel Pan: Tips and Tricks
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Birmingham Stove & Range (BSR) cast iron pans are collectible items, especially for those who are avid collectors of cast-iron cookware. However, the product line is not considered collectible by most.
BSR cast iron pans are sold on Etsy and eBay.
BSR rarely put its name on its cookware. Only three pieces labelled "Birmingham Stove & Range" are known to exist. The bottom of the pan will have a continuous heat ring with no notches, and the underside of the handle will be V-shaped.
Some collectible BSR pans include the No. 14 skillet, the Lodge No. 5 skillet, the Red Mountain Series No. 8 skillet, the 7D corn stick pan, and the Handy Dan Cornstick Pan.
