Dear Readers,
I had a “gotta have it” moment today! I don’t get those too often these days…
On the way to see my mom & dad this afternoon I came across a big country garage sale. I snagged this Antique Wortman and Ward Butter Churn for $31.75 – it was all the change I had on me and the seller accepted it. It was a lovely transaction and the homeowner had one of the nicest properties (and vintage lawn decor) I have seen for a while.
This showpiece is a revolving barrel-style butter churn and was manufactured in London, Ontario. Gotta love good old Canadian antiques!
Butter Churns can also be called a Dairy Swing Churn or Creamery. On average they sell 
for between $100-$150 depending on the condition and size. The one I got is a little smaller. Interestingly enough some of the bigger, more impressive ones sell for up to $450.
If you are looking for one of these for lawn decor or your home make sure you…
- Pull off the lid and take a look at the condition of the inside of the barrel
- Ensure all the rings are around the exterior of the barrel. If they are not all there perhaps you can bargain the price a little more. More often then not they may be missing one.
- Check out the handle and take it for a test run/turn
- Check for manufacturing details on the bottom of the barrel and more details on the front of the stand/holder
I believe many of the Wortman and Ward Butter Churns came about in the 1890’s – early 1900’s but I am still doing some investigative research.
Regardless if you can pick these up at a good price they would make for a good quick flip item or household treasure.
pieceandquiet.ca 