An “Anonymous Participant” posted this on the Memories of Dexter–The Original One Horse Town Facebook page:
“Hi everyone in Dexter I’m looking for a Hog Oilers I’m curious if anyone out there would have one for sale they were made all over the country and there was one meal and [manufactured in] Dexter and I’m looking to buy one if anybody has one my number is 515-669-9953”
The Dexter Museum has a genuine Dexter Hog Oiler, manufactured by Marsh Mfg. Co, Dexter, Iowa.
The Dexter Hog Oiler was patented in 1916 by William J. Marsh, who operated the Dexter Hog Oiler Company until he sold it to a Cedar Rapids company.
So who is this Anonymous Participant looking for old hog oilers? Collectors Dan Laurie and his nephew Zac Laurie who have amassed a collection of more than 200 hog oilers.
This answered my burning question: What IS a hog oiler?! Thanks!
Exactly what I thought when I ran into the thing in the museum! But when I posted about it, relatives of the man who patented and manufactured it were certainly excited! Collectors want to buy things like this, but not the things our mothers considered presious!
Reminds me of the shoo fly thingy that the cows would go through to get rid of flys. Thanks, Joy. Good memories.
You’re probably the only one to enjoy this one, John! My sis is the host at the Dexter Museum this weekend, so I suggested she find the thing in case someone want to see it on a Father’s Day visit!
I’ll look in the garage, but I don’t think we have a hog oiler. I enjoy tidbits of history like this. See a need, solve it, and make a living doing so. That is what makes this country great.
Yes, Bob, even in a town of fewer than 800 souls!
Interesting thing to collect.
When we sold Mom’s pretty dishes, etc., the auctioneer said they wouldn’t bring much, but did we have old oil cans and stuff in the barn or out buildings! Who knew!
My cousin has one at her home. Our Great Uncle is William Marsh. 🙂 I’m sure it’s not for sale though.
Probably not! A family treasure, for sure.
Very interesting, Joy, informative for me. I hope you’re able to get one.
Ha ha, Tim! The museum has one. That’s enough for me.
Fascinating! I assume they’re no longer in use by hog farmers?
Dad never had one.
I knew pigs wallowed in the mud to protect their skin. I didn’t know there was an option to that. A hog oiler may have been very helpful in dry areas, but the hot sun might have fried some of them like bacon. 🙂
Good one, Nancy!