Hog oiler

History:
– Late 1800s and early 1900s saw hog lice and hog cholera issues.
– First hog oiler patent issued in 1902.
– Era of innovation for hog oilers mainly between 1913-1923.
– Estimated 157 patented models and possibly 600 unpatented.
– Prices ranged from $4 to $12+ based on size and features.

Collectibles:
– World War II led to a growing collectors market for hog oilers.
– Cast iron models are highly sought after antiques.
– Collectors range from young to old.
– Majority of hog oiler finds in upper Midwest states.
– Prices vary widely, from $30 to thousands of dollars.

References:
– “Hog Oilers were cheap insurance” – Farm Collector magazine.
– “Hog Oiler Heaven” – Farm Collector magazine.
– “Encyclopedia of American Farm Implements & Antiques” by Charles H. Wendel.
– Young collector amasses impressive hog oiler collection – Farm Collector magazine.

External links:
– U.S. patent 1,057,588 for a twin wheel hog oiler by E.J. Smith in 1913.
– U.S. patent 1,173,201 for a watermelon type hog oiler by F.R. McDermond in 1916.
– U.S. patent 1,256,357 for an overhead tank reservoir hog oiler by Albert A. Nasser in 1918.
– U.S. patent 1,289,852 for a Dexter Hog Oiler by William J. Marsh of Dexter, Iowa in 1918.