From: Tom Dvorscek
Location: Prior Lake, MN
Date: 1/17/00
Time: 8:33:19 PM
Hello Rachel,
Just thought that I would try to shed some light on your find in Gary's absence. I believe these "Salt Feeders" were made by Red Wing under contract by the Ideal Salt Feeder Co. of Morristown, Minn. The band around the body was used to mount them to a pole or pen...and you probably guessed by the name, that they are livestock salt feeders. Salt is very corrosive and stoneware makes an "ideal" holding tray. Just a tip; don't drop it on your toe...they are very heavy!I've seen them around in various conditions and wouldn't consider them rare...but they are pretty unique! Hope this helps.
Tom