Museum Information

The Wyandot Popcorn Museum opened in early September of 1982, just prior to the 2nd annual Marion Popcorn Festival. Not only is it the only Popcorn Museum in the world, it also represents the largest collection of restored popcorn antiques. The Museum concept is an outgrowth of a historical research project by George K. Brown.

The first acquisition, in the Spring of 1981, was our feature popper, the Cretors 1899 No. 1 Popcorn Cart. It was purchased in badly decayed condition and was restored by expert Bob Pearson of Kansas. It is the third oldest existing Cretors popcorn machine. (The earliest patents for such equipment were filed in the 1890's) Further acquisitions have been restored by a team of self-trained employees, using the 1899 wagon as a prototype.

From Scouts to Senior Citizens, tour groups have been delighted to experience the Wyandot Popcorn Museum. The sights and sounds of chugging, popping and whistling help to take visitors back in time. Visitors may browse at their leisure or request programs by appointment for larger groups. Tour programs include 3 videos, (children, adult and senior), speaker, media and guided demonstrations.