Dexter Hog Oiler
An “Anonymous Participant” posted this on the Memories of Dexter–The Original One Horse Town Facebook page:
“Hi everyone in Dexter I’m looking for a Hog Oilers I’m curious if anyone out there would have one for sale they were made all over the country and there was one meal and [manufactured in] Dexter and I’m looking to buy one if anybody has one my number is 515-669-9953”
The Dexter Museum has a genuine Dexter Hog Oiler, manufactured by Marsh Mfg. Co, Dexter, Iowa.
Just what are hog oilers? They gave hogs skin protection and protection against insects. When hogs sought relief, they would rub up against the machine, causing the wheel to rotate and pour oil onto their bodies.
Dexter Hog Oiler, owned by the Dexter (Iowa) Museum
The Dexter Hog Oiler was patented in 1916 by William J. Marsh, who operated the Dexter Hog Oiler Company until he sold it to a Cedar Rapids company.
So who is this Anonymous Participant looking for old hog oilers? Collectors Dan Laurie and his nephew Zac Laurie who have amassed a collection of more than 200 hog oilers.
