Though the Mason jar has become a symbol of hipness, it started as a necessity. In 1858, John Landis Mason found a way to preserve fruits, vegetables and other perishables when he devised a lid that screwed to the threaded-glass lip of a jar over a rubber ring that sealed previously boiled contents.

What is special about Mason jars?

Mason jars have a two-part top ― a lid with a rubber ring on the underside, which creates a vacuum seal (which is so integral for safe canning), and an outer band with screw threads that are reusable. The lids can only be used to seal once, but the jars and bands can be reused many times.

Why do hipsters love Mason jars?

Rather than holding a mug or a travel cup that wouldnt draw much attention, the hipster chooses the mason jar that looks just out of place enough to call attention to how cool, clever, and savvy the hipster actually is.

Why are Mason jars so popular?

Mason jars remained popular during World War II, as a way to preserve the bounty of the government-encouraged Victory Gardens. Yet the rise of refrigeration in the post-war years pushed people to freeze rather than can. As the jar became less of a necessity, the culture surrounding it changed, Kelly writes.

Are mason jars hipster?

In the past, the Mason jar was used primarily for canning fruits and other storage uses. The Mason jar also has been noted to be a part of the hipster culture—and not just for canning your favorite produce items for preservation purposes.

Are mason jars out of style?

Mason jars, although done to death, are still country kitchen staples and will forever look great with a bunch of sunflowers in them. And okay, they are basically the perfect drinking vessel for sweet tea or lemonade.

How do you seal a mason jar without a lid?

The best method to can without lids is to seal jars with paraffin wax. While this method has a long history of use with jams and jellies, it is not currently recommended by the National Center for Home Food Preservation.

How old is the Mason jar?

Integral to this process is the Mason jar, which was created in 1858 by John Landis Mason, a New Jersey native. The idea of “heat-based canning” emerged in 1806 and was popularized by Nicholas Appert, a French cook who had been inspired by the need to preserve foods for long periods during the Napoleonic wars.

Can you reuse mason jar tops?

You can reuse glass canning jars, but dont be tempted to reuse canning lids, she advises. The gasket compound in used lids may fail to seal on jars, resulting in unsafe food. When jars are processed, the gasket on new lids softens and flows slightly to cover the jar-sealing surface.