Original Vintage Brass Double Boiler with Ceramic Insert from Bill Ayers’ Personal Collection
A Historic Piece of Counterculture Memorabilia
$200.00
Out of stock
This rare and authentic vintage brass double boiler, complete with its original ceramic insert, is not just a piece of cookware—it’s a direct link to the personal life of Bill Ayers, one of the most iconic radical figures in American history. Discovered during an estate sale held by Ayers himself and advertised on Twitter, this pot was part of the Ayers-Dohrn family’s kitchen and a silent witness to countless meals, conversations, and moments that shaped the lives of two revolutionary thinkers.
Crafted with a classic vintage design, this double boiler features a brass exterior with a pristine white ceramic interior, perfect for delicate cooking like melting chocolate or preparing custards. The sturdy brass handles and lid are aged to perfection, adding a rich patina that highlights its historical value. This piece embodies a blend of utility and artistry, making it a stunning collectible for both culinary enthusiasts and counterculture collectors.
Why This Double Boiler Matters: Bill Ayers, co-founder of the Weather Underground, has been a central figure in American radical activism since the 1960s. Along with his partner, Bernardine Dohrn, Ayers has left an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape, advocating for social justice, education reform, and the power of direct action. This vintage double boiler, part of the Ayers family’s kitchen, is a rare artifact that offers a glimpse into the private life of a public revolutionary.
Provenance and Significance:
Obtained directly from Bill Ayers’ estate sale: This item was discovered in the family’s home, which was steeped in historical relevance. Its presence in the Ayers-Dohrn kitchen adds an intimate layer of connection to the personal life of two of America’s most studied and debated activists.
Personal artifact: Imagine this pot on the stove during a family gathering, or as part of the routine that sustained and nourished Ayers and Dohrn as they navigated decades of activism and public scrutiny. This is not just cookware—it’s a piece of history that captures the human side of radicalism.
Certificate of Authenticity: Comes with a certificate embossed with the phrase: “From the home of Bernardine Dohrn and Bill Ayers,” featuring the Weather Underground logo and the rallying phrase, “All Power to the People.”
Historic value: Given its connection to the Ayers-Dohrn legacy, this double boiler is more than just a kitchen item—it’s a testament to a life lived on the front lines of America’s social and political transformations.
Condition: This double boiler is in good vintage condition, with expected wear consistent with age. The brass exterior shows natural tarnishing, while the ceramic interior remains intact and fully functional. The lid fits snugly, and the handles are sturdy, making it a beautiful display piece or a functional tool for anyone looking to own and use a piece of history.
Value and Market Estimate: Similar vintage double boilers with ceramic inserts typically range between $60 and $125.
However, due to this piece’s provenance and its direct link to Bill Ayers, a prominent figure in American counterculture, its collectible value is significantly higher. We estimate its worth to be between $200 and $300, depending on interest and market demand. Its unique history and certificate of authenticity elevate it beyond a standard collectible into a truly one-of-a-kind artifact.
Imagine Cooking with a Piece of History: Imagine preparing a meal with this vintage double boiler, knowing it once belonged to two of the most notorious activists in modern American history. Envision it displayed proudly in your kitchen, where it will undoubtedly become a conversation starter and a testament to the intersection of food, history, and activism.
Own a Tangible Piece of Radical History—this is your chance to acquire a unique artifact directly tied to one of the most influential activist couples of the 20th century. All proceeds from this sale go toward supporting Shane Bugbee’s newest project, Bomb Ass Recipes from the Kitchen of Bill Ayers & Bernardine Dohrn, and the launch of his independent publishing house, Ink Flower Fun Fountain.
Act now—this is a one-of-a-kind piece that won’t be available again. Don’t miss your chance to own a historic item with deep roots in the American counterculture movement.
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Certificate of Authenticity
Each item in this exclusive collection of Unique Artifacts has been personally curated from the home of American revolutionaries Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn. Spanning their long careers as activists and radical organizers, these rare pieces are more than just collectibles—they’re tangible pieces of history that bear witness to a life of resistance, community building, and defiance against the status quo.
Every item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity featuring an embossed stamp that reads: “From the Home of Bernardine Dohrn & Bill Ayers,” accompanied by the Weather Underground logo and the powerful phrase “Power to All People.” This stamp certifies the provenance of these historically significant items, ensuring their authenticity and preserving the legacy of two individuals who helped shape American political activism.
Whether it’s a well-worn political pamphlet that fueled the fires of rebellion or a personal artifact from their private collection, this certificate guarantees that you’re holding a genuine piece of radical history.