C. Cretors & Co. of Chicago, the pioneering manufacturer of commercial steam-powered popcorn poppers and peanut roasters. The October 10, 1893 patent date corresponds to Charles Cretors’ landmark first patent (U.S. Patent No. 506,207) for an automated peanut roaster and popcorn popper, while the 1894 date marks subsequent improvements to their signature small steam engines used on the machines.

The nickel-plated steam engine with brass plaques and brass steam whistle is in good, complete, working condition. The brass plaque on the base is patent dated 1894, a year after Charles Cretors introduced his own street vendor’s steam engine design at the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago. He designed his improved engine to roast peanuts and coffee while popping corn, baking chestnuts and powering the popcorn cart itself while blowing the whistle to announce his presence.

Very good working condition with original finish throughout.

Units were made as counter models or large horse-drawn street wagons.

Complete, restored antique Cretors machines from the 1890s are highly sought after by collectors and can command high values at specialty auctions.

Catalog SKU: 0004069