The WAPAK Hollow Ware Company began operations in Wapakoneta, Ohio in 1903 and produced its products until filing bankruptcy in 1926. Many of their products appear to have been copied from other manufacturer’s designs and molds.
This vintage WAPAK #9 cast iron skillet with heat ring has been meticulously cleaned and seasoned with organic coconut oil. The skillet sits flat when placed on a granite counter top with only a slight wobble (about 2 playing cards worth when rocking across the rim). It has no cracks or repairs, and is ready to use. The cooking surface has some pitting and utensil marks, as does some of the side walls (see pictures). There is also pitting on the back due to cooking on an open fire. The overall skillet is 12” wide spout to spout, and about 16” long including the handle. This skillet would be ideal for camping or outdoor cooking. Email me if you need any further information. PayPal accepted.
Cleaning and Seasoning process: The cleaning process begins with time in a lye bath. After several days of soaking, the skillet is scrubbed with steel wool using Easy Off spray and Bar Keepers Friend. If need be, it’s put back in the lye bath for another round. After all the rust and build up is removed, it’s soaked in a white vinegar bath for an hour or so, lightly scrubbed with steel wool, and given a thin coat of olive oil. To season the skillet, it’s put in the oven at 200° for 15 minutes. After it’s been heated, it’s coated with a liberal amount of Coconut Oil and wiped down to remove any excess oil. The skillet is put back in the oven at 300° upside down for 15 minutes; then wiped down again to remove any excess oil. It’s then put back in the oven – this time at 400° - for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once the skillet cools down, a thin coat of coconut oil is applied to protect the surface.
Just a reminder, cast iron skillets are not designed for the newer glass/ceramic cooking surfaces. Also, since cast iron can be damaged if dropped or mishandled, I safely pack each piece for shipping.