Q: This antique food mill was in my husband’s grandmother’s house in the Kaweah/Three Rivers area of California. It’s not painted and in pretty good condition. It’s 42 inches high and says “F. Wilson Pat. Feb. 3, 1885, U.S.A.” on it. Can you give me any information on how to maintain it and its approximate value? It’s starting to get some rust on it and I’m wondering if I should paint it with some kind of anti-rust paint.

A: Frank Wilson of Easton, Pennsylvania, was granted this 1885 patent for a “grinding mill” that could grind bones, charcoal, and other substances. They were advertised in magazines for farmers. You can use a commercial product meant for rust removal. Then wash, dry, and coat the iron with light oil to protect it. Your food mill is worth over $250.