On the ride home from work, I found these 15 jars (12 with lids) in an old wooden wine box. Right next to the box was another box labeled “free.” A woman was in the yard mowing with an old push-reel, so I asked her if these were also free, and she hesitated… apparently they used to be her grandmother’s, but she was moving and could not keep them. She had planned to sneak them into her mother’s garage that night to hide them for storage. “But go ahead and take them. I guess it’s better if they get used.” Sure thing! Thank you! Also in the box was this pamphlet. The cover isn’t attached, but it should be an easy repair.
What a great find! It sounds like you were riding a bike rather than driving. if so, that shows an advantage — you might have missed this opportunity driving by in a car. Those are beautiful jars. Happy canning!
Are you planning on freezing food in your jars? I think those jars work with a rubber seal. People used to can food with them by placing the food in the jar, then pressure cooking the food and jar simultaneously. Good Luck!
Additionally, I’m envious of your great dirt and rainfall. Your garden will always out-produce mine in Georgia.
–from Your Cousin.