This C. Cretors Co. popcorn and peanut wagon, built in the early 1900s, was originally designed for equine-drawn use and is said to have remained in the same collection for several years. Featuring metal bodywork finished in red with gold-color motifs, this wagon is equipped with a single-cylinder steam engine, a popping machine that has been updated with electric elements, and a Tosty Rosty Man peanut tumbler.
Additional distinctive features include beveled-glass sashes, chipped-glass signage, a rear door under an overhang, and a perforated roof with a trap-door vent. The wagon rides on staggered-diameter yellow-painted artillery wheels with solid tires and has a front driver’s seat with a cushion trimmed in black upholstery. A receiver-type tow hitch is also installed at the front.
Currently, this C. Cretors popcorn wagon is offered on dealer consignment in Taft, California, complete with period-style popping cookware and available with a bill of sale.
### About C. Cretors & Co.
Founded in 1885 by Illinois confectioner Charles Cretors, C. Cretors & Co. originally marketed a self-designed steam-powered peanut roaster. This innovative machine incorporated a corn popper and the famous “Tosty Rosty Man” peanut tumbler.
Over time, the company expanded into the production of hand- and horse-drawn snack wagons. They later adapted their products to utilize internal combustion and electricity, eventually specializing in movie theater popcorn machines.
### The Model D Popcorn Wagon
The Model D, along with the smaller Models A and C, was introduced in the early 1900s. These wagons featured enclosed walk-on accommodations with removable glass sashes. The Model D measured 12 feet 8 inches in length and included a rear door and a bay window displaying the Cretors steam engine and peanut-roasting array.
This particular example is finished in red with gold motifs and detailed with chipped-glass signage, wood sash and window frames around beveled glass, flash-glass transoms, and exterior bulb sockets. Its perforated roof includes protrusions with a trap-door vent and a disconnected steam whistle. Red-and-white retractable awnings enhance its visual appeal.
The wagon’s staggered-diameter artillery wheels are painted yellow with red accents and wrapped in solid tires. The yellow-painted frame is suspended by a transverse fully elliptical front spring and semi-elliptical rear springs.
A front bench seat, optional equipment for the Model D, is trimmed in black tufted upholstery and shielded by a body-color overhang. Additionally, a receiver-type tow hitch has been added to the wagon’s front.
### Food Preparation Equipment
The front-mounted corn-popping machine has been updated to utilize an electric kettle and switch panel, although a gas burner remains intact. Period-style popping cookware accompanies the wagon.
The peanut-roasting cylinder, adorned with a Tosty Rosty Man clown figurine, sits beneath the single-cylinder steam engine equipped with a ball governor. Plumbing reportedly remains in place for steam operation, but the wagon’s utilities have been modified for use with electricity.
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This beautifully preserved C. Cretors popcorn and peanut wagon represents a fascinating piece of early 20th-century snack wagon history, combining classic craftsmanship with thoughtful modern updates.
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1900-c-cretors-model-d-popcorn-wagon/
