People have been enjoying popcorn for over four thousand years. The popcorn machine has evolved from placing seeds on heated rocks, to the modern microwave oven used in most homes today. Primitive people would not recognize how it is being made but the product remains the same, delicious snacks.
In Peru, a shallow vessel with a hole on top and handle for holding over an open fire was found and believed to be used for heating kernels. The ancient people of Mexico heated sand and placed kernels in it to pop. Other cultures at the time would heat stones, place the seeds on top of them, and make a game of catching them in the air as they popped.
In the 17th century, blacksmiths constructed an apparatus by threading a metal spit into the center of a mental cone fashioned out of flat iron. The spit caused the cone to rotate and prevented the corn from burning. This contraception made it possible for more homes to enjoy the snack.
In 1885, the owner of a sweet shop created the first modern machine by converting a peanut roaster to pop corn kernels. Selling the treats around the area and in his store, the snack became popular. He took his machine to the Chicago Colombian Exposition and made history with his invention. Soon after its appearance at the fair, it was placed on a carriage, making it mobile.
Prior to this invention, corn was being popped by using a wire basket over an open flame or the metal cone. The new invention was steam-driven and popped corn in oil. It also had a storage bin underneath where the exhaust from the steam engine filtered to pan and kept the corn warm.
In the 1900’s an electric method was introduced. Cleaner, quieter and lighter, the new model became popular. Used in movie theaters and on sidewalks, merchants could sell their product before the movie crowds purchased tickets.
Then after World War II, most families were spending their time in the house watching television instead of going to the movies. In the 1960’s when a streamlined version was invented, the machines appeared on luncheon counters, concession stands and small movie theaters.
The popcorn machine has been with humans for more than four millenniums and has advanced in design. From the basic heated sand, to steam powered machines and now to models that automatically measure and dispense butter and seasonings. Some are able to make gourmet popcorn such as caramel corn, cheese corn and other treats.
