1912 Cretors' #1

Serial No. 7583

This machine was originally sold to Joseph C. Hoville of Horivath , Ohio , for $417 on March 27, 1912. We have the original sales literature on this machine, as well as the original sales literature on the 1899 model. This machine was purchased at the Stratford Auction Center in Delaware , Ohio , in December, 1981. It was in excellent condition. It had been converted to operate on both white gas (Naphtha) and bottled gas. During the restoration, we retained the white gas (Naphtha) and bottle gas alternative. Each of the steam powered Cretors Popcorn Wagons is equipped to be operated as a demonstration under compressed air.

In this model, the white gas (Naphtha) tank is mounted below the wagon, rather than being on top as it is in the older machine. Notice the beautiful work done on the glass. The steam engine had been motorized with an electric motor at some point in its history and the inside of the cylinder had been removed. They were repaired to original status during restoration. Since chrome plating was not typical of that period, the restoration work done on the metal of these machines was either nickel-plate over brass or copper. Rusting is not a problem. 

According to the president of the Cretors Company, Charlie Cretors, the small form of the wheels on this antique is very rare. The wheels are normally much larger.