Griswold "The American" No. 8 & 9 Waffle Iron
Rare Finger Hinge | Low Base | Erie, PA
SSC Catalog ID: SSC-GRI-WFL-08-AMFH-LB-001
Overview
This museum-grade Griswold "The American" cast iron waffle iron is a rare, early model featuring the highly collectible finger hinge mechanism. Designed in the 1890s, this was Griswold's first waffle iron that allowed complete paddle separation for cleaning — a key innovation in waffle iron engineering.
This is a complete original set: both paddles, wood handles, and matching low base. Preserved using the SSC Museum Process, this piece remains fully functional and historically significant.
Identification & Features
Maker: Griswold Manufacturing Company (Erie, Pennsylvania)
Product Line: “The American”
Item Type: Cast Iron Waffle Iron (Stovetop)
Size: No. 8 & 9
Hinge Type: Finger Hinge (rare)
Base: Low Base (unmarked)
Handles: Original wood, 3" extension
Patent Dates: June 29, 1880 / July 25, 1893
Era: ~1893–1900
Markings:
“GRISWOLD MFG. CO.”
“THE AMERICAN”
“ERIE, PA”
Dual patent dates in crescent formation
Set Components
Paddle 1: Marked “No. 8” with 1893 patent date
Paddle 2: Marked “8 & 9” with Griswold & Erie markings
Low Base: Original base designed for wood stoves
Historical Significance
The finger hinge was a short-lived hinge design produced only in the early 1890s. Its complete separability was a breakthrough over the earlier "button hinge." Griswold later replaced it with the acorn and ball hinge types, making finger hinge sets quite rare.
Griswold was a leader in cast iron innovation during the industrial rise of Erie, PA. This piece predates Griswold’s use of pattern numbers, making it one of the earliest identifiable waffle irons in the company’s history.
Museum-Grade Condition
No cracks or warping
Hinge mechanism fully functional
Paddles align and rotate smoothly
Original wood handles intact
Seasoned using SSC archival-safe method
Restored, stabilized, and preserved
Cooking & Collector Value
Finger hinge sets are among the rarest Griswold collectibles
Fully functional on modern gas stovetops or over open flame
Excellent example of early American cast iron innovation
Historically significant for both display and use
Care Notes
Preheat gradually on medium heat
Grease both paddles before first waffle
Clean with hot water and brush
Dry immediately and lightly oil surface
Handle wood grips with care — they are original
Why This Piece Matters
This No. 8 & 9 waffle iron represents Griswold’s evolution from basic utility ironware to refined kitchen engineering. Preserved with the original finger hinge intact, it offers a direct window into 1890s American domestic design and industrial craftsmanship.
Part of the Steve’s Seasoned Classics Griswold Collection, this piece is preserved not only as a collectible, but as a living example of Erie’s cast iron legacy.
