Trivets are nice to have since they are good at holding utensils and tend to hold food and oils that touch them. In this way the stove stays a little cleaner. The trivet rinses off and needs almost no maintenance. It can also be used in a skillet or dutch oven. They can be bought new.
The surface tends to be rough and this helps hold oils and liquids without dripping. Rougher cast iron tends to season more quickly, but not better.
The bottom has "LODGE" and "USA 8DOT" inscribed. 8DOT? Size 8 Dutch Oven Trivet.
An old rusty railroad spike cleaned up and seasoned to be a skillet lid holder. It works well and is inexpensive.
Have dated this piece in the 1950's according to the amount of corrosion that was present when found.
Railroad spikes are made from a soft steel, but season just like cast iron. Some railroad spikes are of a higher carbon content and can be forged into knives. Although the carbon content is higher, it is not high enough to make for a good high carbon knife.
Trivet and Railroad Spike
Weight : Trivet 1 lbs 9.0 oz., Railroad Spike 8.7 oz.
A collection of images from a couple of interesting cast iron pieces that are useful and inexpensive.
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Valued in the range of $12 - $16.