[SEL] what is it? OT

[Germoamer at aol.com]

This is my latest acquisition of "things" I own.  I will call it an overgrown 
mortar/pedestal from a very large drug store. HA!  It is about 8 inches 
diameter, 8 inches tall and very heavy cast iron. The bottom of the "mortar" is 
very smooth as is the bottom of the "Pedestal".  It is obviously made to grind 
something, but what?    Guess I will have to start my tedious checking thru the 
patent office.  

On the handle is embossed: 

 E. N.  RIOTTE  MAKER
104 Washington St. NY

On the "pedestal" is embossed:

J. S.  BUCK
Pat DEC 14, 1880

Pictures at:

http://www.oldengine.org/members/schmutz/images/grinder1
http://www.oldengine.org/members/schmutz/images/grinder2
http://www.oldengine.org/members/schmutz/images/grinder3

Any ideas?

Tom Schmutz
Concord, Va. USA
Germoamer at aol.com