Vehicle Description
In 1885 Charles Cretors set out to build an improved peanut
roaster. At the time, the process was done by hand which lead to
uneven roasting and inconsistencies in the finished product.
Cretors moved to Chicago where he met traveling salesman J.M.
Savage who convinced him there was a market for this type of
invention. In 1893 Cretors, had finally completed and patented what
was the first automated popcorn machine. The machine was
steam-powered and popped corn in oil and seasoning, doing so evenly
which gave customers a much more consistent experience. That same
year Cretors set up a hand-drawn cart at the Chicago Columbian
Exposition. It drew large crowds many of which were curious to
whiteness the operation of his impressive machine as well as
experience the deliciousness of the products it produced. From
there the business grew, and Cretors expanded his concession
business to other products. In changing with the times Cretors
later produced horse-drawn concession stands and with the advent of
the automobile even concession trucks. Cretors had an excellent
knack for product promotion. His stands, wagons, and trucks were
all painted in a similar fashion typically red, featuring
distinctive gold leaf lettering. Also consistent with all of the
Cretors concession stands was the prominent display of the machines
which provided the delicious snacks, giving customers an insight to
the process. The company remains in business today, a testament to
five generations of family ownership and a successfull product line
that has continued to adapt to changes in the concession market.
This 1910 Cretors Model D Horse-Drawn Popcorn Wagon has been
beautifully restored to its current condition. If features the
iconic Cretors vending design with bright red paint, gold leaf
lettering, red and white stripe awnings, beautiful woodwork, and
bevel-edged glass throughout - giving customers a unique glimpse
into the popcorn making process. The wagon features solid front and
rear axles, a fully elliptical front leaf spring suspension as well
as longitudinal semi-elliptical rear leaf springs all of which are
finished in a bright yellow. The wagon rides on solid rubber tires
mounted on wood-spoke wheels once again finished in bright yellow
but also featuring red pinstriping. The bright yellow chassis and
wheels beautifully accent the red bodywork of the wagon. While the
wagon has been restored to an excellent period appearance, it has
been updated with a modern electric popcorn popper for easier use.
The wagon does retain a genuine Cretors No. 2 oscillating steam
engine, prominently displayed behind a window next to the counter.
This unique 1910 Cretors Model D Horse-Drawn Popcorn Wagon is a
true time capsule, taking you back to the turn of the 20thcentury
and the dawn of the concession business. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6819-1910-cretors-model-d-horse-drawn-popcorn-wagon/