Revere Ware has been a household name for decades, but have you ever wondered when they stopped making it? Once a staple in kitchens across America, Revere Ware was known for its classic design and durability. It’s hard to imagine a kitchen without at least one piece of Revere Ware cookware. But despite its popularity, Revere Ware was eventually discontinued, leaving many wondering when exactly this happened.
For those who grew up with Revere Ware, it may be hard to accept that it’s no longer in production. After all, it was a brand that stood the test of time and proved to be a reliable cooking companion. However, as time passed, changes in the market and consumer preferences led to the discontinuation of the beloved cookware. But when did Revere Ware officially stop being made? And what happened to the brand that so many loved and trusted for decades?
Despite Revere Ware no longer being manufactured, its legacy lives on through those who still use and cherish their pieces. Whether it’s a favorite frying pan that’s been passed down through generations or a set of copper-bottomed pots that have been cooking family meals for years, Revere Ware continues to hold a special place in many hearts and homes. So, while the brand may no longer be available on store shelves, its impact on the kitchen and the memories it has created will always remain.
History of Revere Ware
Revere Ware was a popular brand of cookware in the United States, primarily known for its copper-bottomed stainless steel pots and pans. The company was founded in 1801 by Paul Revere, an American silversmith and patriot, who became famous for his role in the American Revolution. Revere initially started the company as a copper rolling mill, which produced sheets of copper for various industries, including shipbuilding and coins.
It wasn’t until the 1930s that Revere Ware shifted its focus to cookware production. The company started using a patented electroplating process to bond copper to stainless steel, creating a heat-conductive and durable material that became popular among home cooks. Over the years, Revere Ware expanded its product line to include a variety of cookware pieces, such as tea kettles, frying pans, and baking sheets.
- In 1968, Revere Ware was acquired by Corning Glass Works, which later became Corning Inc.
- In the 1980s, Revere Ware began to face competition from cheaper imported brands and started to lose market share in the United States.
- In 1998, Corning sold Revere Ware to a private equity group, and the company underwent multiple ownership changes in the following years.
Unfortunately, Revere Ware’s popularity declined further in the early 2000s, and the company faced financial difficulties. In 2018, the remaining assets of Revere Ware were sold at auction, effectively marking the end of the brand’s long history.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1801 | Paul Revere founds the copper-rolling mill |
| 1930s | Revere Ware begins production of cookware using a patented electroplating process |
| 1968 | Corning Glass Works acquires Revere Ware |
| 1998 | Corning sells Revere Ware to a private equity group |
| 2018 | Remaining Revere Ware assets sold at auction |
While Revere Ware may no longer be producing cookware, it still holds a fond place in the hearts of many American cooks who remember its classic copper-bottomed pots and pans. Today, vintage pieces of Revere Ware can still be found in antique stores and online marketplaces, serving as a reminder of the brand’s rich history.
Decline of American-made Cookware
For many years, American-made cookware was the gold standard for quality and durability. Brands like Revere Ware, Farberware, and Calphalon were go-to choices for home cooks and professional chefs alike. However, in recent decades, the production of American-made cookware has declined sharply.
There are several reasons for this decline. Here are a few:
- The rise of cheaper, imported cookware: As manufacturing costs increased in the US, many companies turned to overseas production to cut costs.
- The decline of manufacturing jobs: The loss of manufacturing jobs in the US has had a ripple effect on American-made products, including cookware.
- The shift in consumer preferences: Many consumers now prioritize convenience and cost over quality and durability when it comes to cookware.
Despite these challenges, there are still some American-made cookware brands that are going strong. Companies like All-Clad and Lodge continue to produce high-quality cookware in the US.
To get a better sense of this decline, here’s a table of the number of US cookware manufacturers over the past few decades:
| Year | Number of US Cookware Manufacturers |
|---|---|
| 1990 | 44 |
| 2000 | 28 |
| 2010 | 14 |
| 2020 | 5 |
As you can see, the number of US cookware manufacturers has declined significantly over the past few decades. While there are still some great American-made cookware options out there, they are becoming harder to find.
The Popularity of Copper-clad Stainless Steel
Revere Ware has been a staple in American kitchens for over a century. The brand gained popularity in the 1930s for being the first to introduce copper-clad stainless steel cookware. Copper-clad stainless steel is a type of cookware that has a layer of copper on the bottom for better heat distribution, sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel for durability.
This combination proved to be a game-changer in the kitchen. With the copper bottom, heat was evenly distributed throughout the pan, allowing food to cook more evenly. The stainless-steel layers made the pans durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment for any home cook. The popularity of this type of cookware skyrocketed, and Revere Ware became the go-to brand for home cookware.
Advantages of Copper-clad Stainless Steel Cookware
- The copper bottom distributes heat evenly and quickly
- The stainless-steel layers make the pans durable and long-lasting
- The combination of copper and stainless steel prevents hot spots and burning
Disadvantages of Copper-clad Stainless Steel Cookware
While copper-clad stainless steel cookware has many advantages, it also has a few disadvantages. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Copper is an expensive material, and the combination of copper and stainless steel makes these pans some of the most expensive on the market. Additionally, copper is a reactive material, which means it can react with certain types of foods. However, most copper-clad stainless steel pans have a nonreactive coating on the inside, preventing any interactions with food.
Another possible disadvantage is the maintenance. Copper-clad stainless steel pans require a bit more upkeep than regular stainless steel pans. Copper can tarnish over time and requires polishing to maintain its shiny finish. Additionally, copper-clad stainless steel pans should not be cleaned in the dishwasher, as the harsh detergents can damage the copper.
Conclusion
Revere Ware stopped making copper-clad stainless steel cookware in the 1990s, as the cost of producing this type of cookware became more expensive. However, many of the vintage Revere Ware pans are still in use today. Copper-clad stainless steel cookware remains a popular choice for home cooks, and there are many brands on the market that offer this type of cookware. While it may be a bit more expensive and require more upkeep than regular stainless steel pans, the benefits of copper-clad stainless steel cookware make it a great investment for any home cook.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Even heat distribution | Expensive |
| Durable and long-lasting | Requires maintenance |
| Prevents hot spots and burning | Can react with certain foods |
Copper-clad stainless steel cookware may no longer be produced by Revere Ware, but it remains a popular choice for home cooks who want high-quality, long-lasting cookware that distributes heat evenly and prevents burning. With proper maintenance, copper-clad stainless steel cookware can last for generations, making it a great investment for any home cook.
Alternatives to Revere Ware after Discontinuation
After the discontinuation of Revere Ware, many loyal customers were left searching for alternatives to their beloved cookware. Here are some options to consider:
- All-Clad: This high-end cookware brand is known for its durability and heat distribution, making it a popular alternative to Revere Ware. It may be pricier than other options, but it will last for years to come.
- Cuisinart: Another popular brand, Cuisinart offers a wide range of cooking products including pots and pans. Their nonstick options are a great choice for those who want easy cleanup.
- Lodge: If you are looking for a more affordable option, Lodge cast iron cookware is a great choice. While it may require some extra maintenance, it is long-lasting and versatile.
It’s important to note that while Revere Ware may no longer be available, secondhand options can still be found through online marketplaces and thrift stores. In fact, many vintage pieces are highly sought after for their unique design and quality.
For those who are still searching for the closest alternative to Revere Ware, the table below offers a comparison of each brand’s key features:
| Brand | Material | Price Range | Dishwasher Safe | Non-Stick Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All-Clad | Stainless Steel | High-End | Yes | Yes |
| Cuisinart | Stainless Steel/Non-Stick | Mid-Range | Yes | Yes |
| Lodge | Cast Iron | Affordable | No | Yes |
No matter which alternative you choose, it’s important to consider your cooking needs and budget. With the variety of options available, it’s easy to find a replacement for your beloved Revere Ware.
Impact of Foreign Imports on the Cookware Industry
With globalization and the rise of international trade, foreign imports have had a significant impact on the cookware industry, including the production and availability of Revere Ware.
Here are five ways that foreign imports have affected the cookware industry:
- Increased competition: Foreign imports have introduced more competition into the cookware market, which has forced manufacturers to adapt and innovate in order to stay relevant.
- Lower prices: The availability of cheaper cookware from overseas manufacturers has made it difficult for American-made products like Revere Ware to compete on price.
- Different materials: Some foreign manufacturers use different materials to make cookware, which has resulted in new types of products that might not have existed otherwise.
- Changing consumer tastes: As more exotic and international foods have become popular, consumers have become more interested in cookware that is specifically designed for those cuisines.
- Shifts in manufacturing: Some American manufacturers have moved their production overseas in order to take advantage of lower labor costs, which has had a ripple effect on the entire industry.
Overall, foreign imports have made it more difficult for American-made products like Revere Ware to survive in the competitive cookware market.
| Country | Percentage of Cookware Imports |
|---|---|
| China | 72% |
| Mexico | 6% |
| India | 3% |
| South Korea | 3% |
| Other | 16% |
China is by far the largest exporter of cookware to the United States, with over 70% of all imports coming from that country.
Fans of Revere Ware and Their Collections
There are many avid fans of Revere Ware and their collections are a testament to the quality and durability of the cookware. Here are some interesting facts and stories about these collectors and their devotion to Revere Ware:
- Many collectors are drawn to the vintage Revere Ware pieces that were made in the USA from the 1930s to the 1990s, before production was moved overseas. These vintage pieces are highly sought after and can fetch high prices on the collector’s market.
- Some collectors even have entire kitchen cabinets dedicated solely to their Revere Ware collection. They display the pots and pans on shelves, with the iconic copper bottoms gleaming in the light.
- One collector, Kathy Cochran, has over 200 pieces of vintage Revere Ware. She began collecting in 1995 when she found a set of pots and pans at a garage sale and fell in love with their classic design and quality construction. Since then, she has scoured thrift stores, estate sales, and online marketplaces to add to her collection.
But it’s not just the vintage pieces that attract collectors. Even the newer Revere Ware cookware has its devoted fans:
One fan, Joyce Gagne, started using Revere Ware when she got married in the 1960s and has been a loyal user ever since. When she discovered that Revere Ware was being discontinued in the early 2000s, she decided to stock up on as many pieces as she could before they were gone for good. Her collection now includes over 50 pieces of Revere Ware, and she says she uses them every day.
There are even online forums and Facebook groups dedicated to Revere Ware collectors, where they can share stories, show off their collections, and swap pieces with each other. With such a dedicated fan base, it’s clear that Revere Ware has made an impact not just in the kitchen, but in the hearts of its loyal users as well.
| Advantages of Revere Ware Collecting | Disadvantages of Revere Ware Collecting |
|---|---|
| High resale value for vintage pieces | Can be expensive to buy a lot of pieces at once |
| Collectors’ communities and online forums | Can be difficult to find certain pieces or complete sets |
| Learning about the history and evolution of Revere Ware | Requires storage space for collections |
Overall, collecting Revere Ware can be a rewarding hobby for those who appreciate quality cookware and timeless design.
Revere Ware’s Continued Legacy in American Homes
Revere Ware has been a staple in American homes for over 200 years. Despite changes in ownership and manufacturing, the beloved cookware brand has continued to hold a place in the hearts and kitchens of many.
The History of Revere Ware in American Homes
- Revere Ware was first introduced in 1939, and quickly became a favorite among cooks for its durability and classic design.
- The cookware was especially popular during World War II, as it could be used on gas, electric, and wood-burning stoves, making it versatile for all households.
- Over the years, Revere Ware continued to adapt and change with the times, introducing new products and features to their line of cookware.
The Demise of Revere Ware
Despite its popularity and loyal following, Revere Ware faced financial difficulties in the early 2000s. In 2008, the company filed for bankruptcy and its assets were sold to World Kitchen, LLC. The new owners continued to produce Revere Ware for a few more years, but eventually stopped making the cookware altogether in 2018.
The End of an Era: When Did They Stop Making Revere Ware?
The exact date that Revere Ware stopped being produced is uncertain, as it varied depending on the specific product. However, most sources agree that the last pieces of Revere Ware were made sometime in 2018.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1939 | Revere Ware is introduced to the American market |
| 2008 | Revere Ware files for bankruptcy and is sold to World Kitchen, LLC |
| 2018 | Revere Ware ceases production |
While the discontinuation of Revere Ware may be disappointing for its loyal fans, the cookware’s legacy lives on in American homes. Many vintage pieces are still in use today, and can be found in antique stores, online marketplaces, and passed down through generations of families. The timeless design and quality construction of Revere Ware make it a collector’s item and beloved piece of American culinary history.
Frequently Asked Questions about When Did They Stop Making Revere Ware
Q: When was the last time Revere Ware was produced?
A: The last time Revere Ware was produced was in 2018.
Q: Why did they stop making Revere Ware?
A: Revere Ware stopped production due to the bankruptcy and closure of its parent company, World Kitchen LLC.
Q: Where can I find Revere Ware now that it is no longer in production?
A: You can find Revere Ware products in second-hand stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces such as eBay and Amazon.
Q: Is Revere Ware still considered a high-quality cookware brand despite being no longer in production?
A: Yes, Revere Ware is still regarded as a high-quality and durable cookware brand by its loyal customers.
Q: Can I still contact Revere Ware for warranty claims or repairs?
A: Unfortunately, since the company is no longer in operation, there is no way to contact Revere Ware for warranty claims or repairs.
Q: What makes Revere Ware unique compared to other cookware brands?
A: Revere Ware is known for its signature stainless steel copper-bottom design that provides even heating and prevents sticking.
Q: Is there any chance that Revere Ware will ever be produced again?
A: While there is no indication that Revere Ware will be produced again, many fans of the brand hope that the name and design will one day be revived by another company.
Closing Thoughts
We hope these FAQs have answered your questions about when Revere Ware was last produced and why the company stopped operation. While it may no longer be in production, Revere Ware remains highly regarded by its loyal fan base and can still be found in various second-hand stores and marketplaces. Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and we hope to see you again soon for more updates on your favorite brands.