1893 Cretors Popcorn Wagon
Ended Dec 01, 2025 at 8:47 PM UTC
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Description
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
In 1893, Charles Cretors revolutionized snack vending with the debut of his steam-powered popcorn wagon at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Originally a candy store owner from Ohio, Cretors had earlier invented a steam-powered peanut roaster, but his breakthrough came when he modified the machine for popcorn. Unlike traditional methods that used open flames, his invention stirred and seasoned the popcorn automatically, producing consistent, flavorful results.
The wagon itself was mobile, designed to be drawn by a pony, allowing vendors to bring fresh popcorn to fairs, rallies, and other public gatherings. Cretors’ invention marked the birth of the modern popcorn industry. His patent, granted in 1893, covered the first automated popcorn and peanut roasting machine. The success of the wagon at the fair helped shift public preference from peanuts to popcorn, laying the foundation for a snack that would become a staple in American culture — from street corners to movie theaters to ballparks.
This restored Cretors Popcorn Wagon, offered as part of The Richard Gordon Collection, has been updated from the original kerosene and steam used to pop the corn to propane and compressed air. Both beautiful and fully functional, this Popcorn Wagon is ready to carry on the Cretors tradition.
Highlights
Offered from The Richard Gordon Collection
Restored and fully functional
Modifications
Original kerosene and steam corn popper undated to propane and compressed air
Known Imperfections
Imperfections and scratches commensurate with a 132 year old vehicle
that has been inside heated storage for years
Ownership History
This 1893 Cretors Popcorn Wagon is offered from The Richard Gordon Collection.
Additional Information
Note: This 1893 Cretors Popcorn Wagon is sold on Bill of Sale only.
A Broad Arrow Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the seller of this listing. As such, the purchase transaction will be facilitated by Broad Arrow, including vehicle payment, applicable taxes required to be collected by the seller or Broad Arrow, and title/ownership reassignment. Broad Arrow is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hagerty.
Contact: Craig Zimmerman Phone: 586.707.5811 email: cszimmerman@hagerty.com
All auction listings on Hagerty Marketplace are created using information provided by the seller. The Marketplace team and the seller have reviewed all information for accuracy to the best of their abilities. Bidders are ultimately responsible for conducting their own due diligence before placing a bid, including verifying details, condition, registration requirements, and compliance with applicable laws. For any questions or additional information, contact the seller.
1893 Cretors Popcorn Wagon · No reserve
