Consider buying a vintage tub and restoring it. Reuse and all that... We are happy with the one we restored, but it doesn't get that much use.

We started looking at salvage in our area. There are quite a few at the local shops. Outside is in horrible shape, inside in great shape.

When we get closer to demo and such, we'll shop prepared to take one home (meaning borrowing a bigger car).

Still wondering if anyone makes on new in the US, though.

I know nothing whatever about the quality, but Restoria tubs are made in the US:

Here is a link that might be useful: restoria at vintage tubs

The claw foot tub originated here in the USA. Kohler and American Standard are the two companies that started producing them back in the late 1800's. They still make them, but their selection in cast iron has become much smaller. People don't buy cast iron tubs like they used to. Acrylic tubs are cheaper and most people don't know any better.

As golddust suggested, you may have better luck finding a used cast iron tub. They are commonly discarded, or even worse smashed with a sledge hammer because they are difficult to remove in one piece.

Kohler also has like 5 different company names. Kallista is their high end bathtubs.

Here is another source for tubs (this is where I bought mine). I don't know where they are made but they are easy to contact for email and phone questions.http://www.vandykes.com/bath/c/312/

Thanks all. Good info here.

I'll keep an eye on Restoria, the stuff at Van Dykes, and look for the various Kohler stuff (as well as vintage stuff). Sadly there aren't a lot of salvage places close to us. 1 hr minimum drive, but we'll make a day of it and go on the hunt.

Thanks again all.