Hi, from beautiful Lake Erie!

[RayD]

Despite living here, don’t know why I never thought of collecting any Griswold until now! Ebay’d the $34 chromed “00” in May, and just rec’d this $17 aluminum Tanner (‘cause I like it!). With the many similarities (same small town, same shape, size, crisp casting, font etc…) I’m wondering what role (if any) Griswold played in the design/manufacturing process. Any input would be greally appreciated!

 

[Doug D.]

Two possibilities. Either Griswold made them as a special order for the firm, or someone else did and used a Griswold ashtray to base their pattern on. Aluminum is far easier to cast than iron, so the latter scenario could be more likely. Place them face to face and see if the diameters match.

 

[RayD]

Match-up looks identical on all sides including the one-sided grind/finishing mark. The Griswold and Tanner factories were operating during the same time and were both located within a few blocks of each other. So, whoever made them did a great job! Thanks for the quick reply, Doug (and for the great forum, too)!

 

[Doug D.]

The expectation would be that, if someone else used a Griswold ashtray to make their pattern, the resulting casting would be smaller, due to the shrinkage of the metal as it cools and hardens. That they are the same dimensions supports the scenario that Griswold altered their own ashtray pattern to make the pieces for Tanner.

 

[RayD]

The vacant Griswold Building (formerly Shaw Piano) is still standing at the corner of 12th & Raspberry (Google Earth for view). Maybe one of the days I’ll walk over there and ask around a little bit. (kidding!)

 

[Scott J.]

Google Maps Street View:
One can still see the Griswold marking on the building.

Street View of W 12th St & Raspberry St · Google Maps

Erie, PA 16502

maps.app.goo.gl

 

[RayD]

Great article on Griswold-Shaw factory, Erie, PA:

https://architecturalafterlife.com/2020/07/shaw-piano/