Popper, Corn

Object number96.14.16

Manufacturer Bersted Manufacturing Company

Artist H.C. Fry Glass Company (1903 - 1933)

Datec.1925

OriginChicago, Illinois

OriginPittsburgh, Pennsylvania

MediumChrome-plated steel; Heat-sensitive glass; Bakelite plastic

Credit LineMuseum Purchase with funds from Hillman Foundation Funds

DescriptionSquare metal, glass, and bakelite corn popper.Dimensions10 x 10.75 x 9.5 in. (25.4 x 27.3 x 24.1 cm)
MarksOn bottom, "CORN POPPER / MODEL 302 / 115 VOLTS 410 WATTS / BERSTED MFG. CO. / CHICAGO"
Label TextIn the early 20th century, scientists at Corning Glass in New York developed a formula to produce heat-resistant glass. Valued in chemistry and industry, this glass was also adapted for popular use as the ovenware we know as Pyrex. In 1915, the Fry Co. of Rochester, Pa., contracted Corning to produce its own line of ovenware. Within a few years, designers at Fry had tinkered with the formula to create a heat-tempered glass with a “pearlized” effect. They then used this attractive glass in a successful line of art glass called “FOVAL” (Fry Oven Art Line). Fry designers recast what was originally utilitarian glass into an expensive, decorative product. Fry’s heat resistant glass was also used for lids in coffee and tea pots and in this popcorn popper. Bersted Mfg. Co., Chicago, Ill., glass lid by H.C. Fry Glass Co

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