Popcorn Man

This advertisement from the Menasha Record, a local newspaper of the day, from March 29, 1913 is reflective of leisure at the turn of the century. With prosperity came disposable income and what better way to spend this money by spending it on the wholesome amusements of the day- ice cream parlors, moving picture shows, and popcorn vendors. The widespread planting of popcorn in America didn't occur until the mid-1800s, but within half a century, popcorn became a favorite to young and old. When the first mobile popcorn machine was introduced at the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893, popcorn became prevalent everywhere.