John Lanis Mason invented the Mason Jar on November 30th 1858. In 1884 the Ball corporation began manufacturing glass home “canning” jars. This was the product that established Ball as a household name in this industry. Ball used the design and licensed the Mason Jar. This became a very popular brand in the canning industry. Canning was popular especially in the 1800’s into the early 1900’s because it was a great way to preserve fruits and vegetables. Preserving food by canning was a practical way to keep food fresh as refrigeration was not as readily available. This was necessary as there was deep concern about food borne illness like listeria, e Coli, and botulism. Do your seniors recall this time?
Your seniors may recall a lot of these different jar brands. I have found many different varieties. Seniors may reminisce about using Ball, Mason, Economy, and may other popular jar brands. A sad an interesting side note was that after 20 years the Mason designed jars patent had expired and John Mason never really attained any wealth from his unique and practical design invention. He lived a “meager existence” until his death in 1902.
The jars unique design, color, and weight all are very iconic. They were practical and some would say beautiful designed items of the past. Ironically these jars are gaining popularity again especially since COVID according to the latest google search results and a revitalized surge in sales. One can only speculate that this is because of the percieved need for self reliance, and more time spent at home. Interesting how these cycles in society happen. Mason jars are still used today for Victory Gardens are a thing of the past. Thankfully seniors can share these interesting stories of days gone by.
One of the interesting things that I have learned (or relearned) while conducting these reminiscence programs is about Victory Gardens. I can vaguely remember a show on PBS called the Victory Garden. Seniors can tell us a lot about this period of time in United States history. Essentially Victory Gardens (also known as War Gardens) were a way for people in the United States to prevent starvation and gain self sufficiency. Gardening was essentially considered a civic duty. This made the use of Mason Jars a popular choice for the citizens of the United States but also in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Germany. It was estimated that nearly 40% of American vegetables were produced at home, community, or in school gardens. Many seniors recall these patriotic days.
Did your seniors and or their parents have a vegetable garden? Did they can? Did they use Mason Jars? What types of vegetables did they can? Love to hear the responses!
Want To Enhance Your Career and Your Care In 1 Day Guaranteed?
Join us for one of the upcoming Alzheimers Disease and Dementia Care Zoom seminars. Complete the seminar and get your CDP Certified Dementia Practioner Designation from the NCCDP National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. You can click the link below to register and enhance your care and your career.