A Cast Iron Gift from Great Grandma
Handing down generations of cast iron
In the heart of my kitchen, there’s a piece of history that holds more than just the weight of its iron. It is a cast iron pan passed down from my Great grandma Bea—a treasure passed down through generations from her to my dad and now to me. This seasoned cast iron skillet has witnessed countless family gatherings. It has made innumerable meals for loved ones. It has been there through the laughter, stories and tears of my family for centuries. And it has been used, cared for, loved and well seasoned with the flavors of my family tree. I can feel the connection to my roots and family when I hold it in my hands. And it’s the heart of my kitchen. I don’t care if that sounds corny. It’s true.
I remember the day I received this cast iron pan. Great grandma Bea had long since passed and my folks were cleaning out some old trunks of things that had belonged to her. Knowing my love of cooking, my folks knew it had to go to me. And they were certain it would have been Great grandma Bea’s wishes as well. Upon receiving this heavy pan, it felt like I received a time capsule. It brought back a flood of old memories of my Great grandma babysitting me, taking care of me and cooking for me so many years ago. I knew right then this a priceless gift. And I know would be something I would use in my kitchen every day. And I have.
The Heart of my kitchen: care of Great grandma Bea
Given the few stamps on this cast iron pan and my research on the subject, it was made somewhere in the 1960’s; which would make this heart of my kitchen approximately 60 years old. Cooking with this cherished heirloom is like taking a journey back in time. Its weight, the marks of both abuse and affection, and its enduring presence in my family have weathered countless meals and stood the test of time. The sizzle of the pan, the aroma of well-seasoned iron—it’s a sensory experience that transcends generations.
I’m going to be making a ribeye with it tonight, which is probably my favorite meal. There are times when I’m cooking with it that I cannot help but imagine my great grandmother doing the same. And when I’m teaching my girls the art of cooking with it? It’s a powerful connection, a shared experience that defies time and really is a feeling I cannot describe with words. I’m not just cooking; I’m preserving a legacy, passing down traditions to the next generation.
One day, as my children grow older and go off into the world to find their own adventures in life, I’m going to make SURE that this heart of my kitchen is passed on to them. Because that connection matters. In fact, when I think about it, it is the ONLY thing that truly matters in this life.
To me, this one cast iron pan is more than just a piece of cookware. It is a testament to the enduring power of family and food and the connection I’ve shared with my Great grandma Bea way back when all the way to the present with my three girls and wife. It’s a reminder that the simple act of cooking can bridge generations, bringing us closer to our roots and to each other.
This pan will continue to hold a special place in my kitchen, a teaching tool, a tangible link to the past and a symbol for the beating heart and promise of a hopeful future together with my loved ones. I love you grandma Bea.