First thing you'd better determine is if that circuit is 110 volt or 220. I would've assumed 110, but what you said about a "big old plug" makes me wonder.
If it's 110 you dont even need to use the multitester; just plug in a lamp or a drill or something like that. Or you could check your fuse box. If one of them is blown (or "thrown" if circuit breaker), that would be your suspect circuit.
you might also check the little switch in the dryer door that shuts off the drier when the door is open. These are often little plastic switches that break after a few years. bypassing it is not too difficult (certainly not for anyone who can build a motor assisted bicycle). If it comes to that, i can offer advice.