There are known Axford Cloverleaf Pancake Griddles, Skillets, Broilers (ribbed skillets).
What we have found information wise, follows. Though we are not sure any of this is connected or related.
Axford (William Axford). Born in England 1837.
William immigrated to the United States from Scotland during the US Civil war. He and his brother employed their skills as metalsmiths.
William Axford moved to San Francisco. Records indicate he resided at the Northwest corner of Noe and 25th Streets. (1190 Noe St.) Built in 1877.
William Axford was the owner of Mission Iron Works and Enterprise Iron Works.
The Axford Mansion is a San Francisco Landmark # 133 and still exists.
So is there any connection to our latest find? A cast iron broiler skillet. AXFORD was on the bottom?
Not being particularly fond of the raised rib skillets (broiler) for use in actual cooking, this became a “pass” situation initially. For me the “broilers” are not often given a second look. Though I collect, I like to also use my finds for cooking from time to time. Even well seasoned, the raised ribs of a broiler skillet make them more difficult to clean than a smooth bottom skillet.
We did return and purchase the broiler skillet.
We found some vague information connected to William Axford and two metalworks companies from the 1800’s. Is this information and person connected to the Axford Cast Iron Cookware?
The skillet bears a raised Pat 1931 on the top of the handle. So it obviously was not produced in the 1800’s.
We are looking for conclusive information and more photos on AXFORD Cast Iron. What foundry or foundries were these produced in? The relationship of the name Axford? Also the years these were produced?