Antique and Vintage Mason Jars

John Mason’s November 30th, 1858, patent for the Mason jar—also know by its brand name, Mason's—revolutionized food preservation. The key to its success of was the invention of a machine that could cut a thread into a glass jar’s lip. This made screw-on zinc lids, which improved the jar’s food-preservation capabilities, possible. A rubber ring on the inside surface of the lid completed the seal. Mason jars were a hit. They were affordable, reusable, and allowed very little moisture to escape. This meant that farmers and other rural residents no longer had to smoke, dry, salt, or pickle food to get them through harsh winters. It also meant Civil War soldiers could receive preserved food on the front lines.