Collect the past and invest in your future, with an accumulation of knowledge and great items with history to share. 

Knowledge can be imparted to a learner, but if you can teach that learner to seek out their own information by generating curiosity to find out more, they will continue with their own learning process for a lifetime. It works with collecting. In your desire to learn more about your collection you often become an expert in your field.

Camp oven cooking has experienced a significant surge in popularity in recent years. More and more people are discovering the joys of this traditional cooking method and are eager to add vintage collectable camp ovens to their collections.

The appeal of owning a vintage oven offers a unique cooking experience and has a distinct advantage when it comes to seasoning. Over time, vintage camp ovens develop a well-seasoned surface that enhances the flavour and quality of the dishes prepared in them.

Whether you’re an experienced camp oven cook or just starting out, the allure of vintage camp ovens is undeniable. They not only serve as functional cooking vessels but also carry a nostalgic charm that resonates with outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

It’s not uncommon to come across posts for camp ovens labelled as “vintage rusty camp ovens” in online sales. However, it’s important to note that in some cases, these camp ovens might simply be Chinese-made ovens that have acquired some rust over time.

The seller might not possess much information about the origin or history of the oven and may have assumed it to be vintage based solely on its rusty appearance.

Assumptions about an item’s age or authenticity based solely on its rustiness can be misleading. It’s always recommended to gather more information, ask the seller for details, or consult with experts or enthusiasts who can provide insights into the true vintage nature of a camp oven.

Reproductions are often easily distinguished because they:

have flat lids,

a tapered teardrop lid handle

a plain wire bail (handle)

flat horizontal ears (to attach the handle)

Often don’t have legs.

Genuine vintage camp ovens have:

Domed lids

An even lid handle often with a join in the middle

Blacksmith made bails (handle)

Vertical ears (handle attachments)

and will have legs unless they have been cut off.

Australian made Foundry Camp ovens – This is a list of known manufacturers of camp ovens that were made right here in Australia and are highly sought after by collectors. This list does not contain the many manufacturers of camp ovens that don’t contain a makers mark.

Albion Camp Oven

Metter’s Camp Oven

Billman’s Camp Oven

Harding’s Camp Oven

Furphy Camp Oven

QR Railroads Camp oven

Carmichael Camp Ovens

RM Williams Camp Ovens

Enjoy your outdoor experiences!

You just never know what is around the corner. The enjoyment in collecting is the getting out and searching.  

I love the history that comes with searching out and researching interesting objects.            
I recommend collecting to everyone. Find the category or categories that suits you or take the plunge and collect a wide variety of unique and interesting treasures or limit yourself to just one area. It is always fun and something that can be done for the rest of your life. 

If you have items you are not sure of, I may be able to help with information, appraisals or sales. I enjoy looking at, and hearing the stories of, old and interesting items.

 Call Rex – 0427 880 546 or drop into the shop (Antiques & Old Wares at 12 Isabella St Wingham.)

I have just brought in 20+ old hardwood, long, school benches – if you know anyone who is after one for a veranda, garden ……..etc. 

 

Picture: A Camp Oven Collection