How did mason jars get their name?

How Did Mason Jars Get Their Name?

Mason jars are a staple in many kitchens and pantries, and it’s hard to imagine a world without them. These versatile jars have been around for over a century, and their name has a fascinating history. But, have you ever wondered how they got their name?

The Early Years of Mason Jars

Mason jars were first invented by John Landis Mason, a tinsmith from New York, in the mid-1800s. Mason was born in 1790 and grew up in a family of craftsmen. He learned the trade from his father and eventually established his own tinsmith shop in New York. Mason’s main goal was to create a jar that could be easily and securely sealed without using metal bands or corks, which were prone to leaking and spoilage.

The Patent and The Birth of Mason Jars

In 1858, Mason filed a patent for his new jar design, which featured a rubber seal and a screw-top lid. The patent was approved, and Mason began mass-producing his jars, which quickly gained popularity. The jars were marketed as "Mason’s Carboy" or "Mason’s Patent Jar" until the late 1880s, when they were officially renamed "Mason Jars".

Why "Mason Jars"?

So, why did Mason jars become known as "Mason Jars"? There are a few theories:

• The most widely-held theory is that the name "Mason" came from John Landis Mason’s own name. Mason was a proud tinsmith, and having his name associated with his product was a way for him to claim ownership and credibility.
• Another theory suggests that the name "Mason" referred to the Masonic lodges, which were secret societies that emphasized brotherhood and cooperation. Mason himself was a member of a local Masonic lodge, and it’s possible that he saw the name "Mason" as a way to associate his jars with the values of honesty and integrity.
• A third theory proposes that the name "Mason" was chosen because of its simplicity and familiarity, given that Mason was a common surname in the 19th century.

Evolution of Mason Jars

Over the years, Mason jars have undergone several design changes and innovations. Here are some significant developments:

• 1937: The invention of the "Mason Multi-purpose Jar", which featured a new lid design and a wider mouth.
• 1950s: The introduction of stainless steel lids, which were more durable and easier to clean than the original screw-top lids.
• 1960s: The development of wide-mouth mason jars, which were ideal for canning large quantities of food.
• 1990s: The rise of "kilner" jars, also known as "Mason Jars" in the UK, which featured a glass lid and a stainless steel band.

What Makes Mason Jars Unique?

So, what makes Mason jars so special? Here are some of the key features that set them apart:

• The screw-top lid, which provides a secure and airtight seal, making them ideal for canning and preserving food.
• The wide-mouth opening, which allows for easy filling and cleaning of the jar.
• The durable construction, made from high-quality glass and stainless steel, which withstands repeated use and exposure to heat and cold.

Conclusion

Mason jars have come a long way since their invention by John Landis Mason over 160 years ago. The name "Mason" has become synonymous with these versatile and practical containers, which have become a staple in many kitchens around the world. Whether you use them for canning, storing, or displaying your favorite foods and treasures, Mason jars are a timeless and iconic symbol of food preservation and tradition.

Here’s a table summarizing the key points:

I hope this article has provided a comprehensive overview of the history and name of Mason jars. If you have any further questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to reach out!