With improved peanut roasters of his own design, Decatur, Illinois’ Charles Cretors revolutionized America’s growing snack food industry during the late-19th century. Finished in red with black fenders, this 1928 Model AA is a very faithful recreation of what the original Cretors popcorn trucks looked like. It is fitted with correct blackwall tires and AA-type painted wire wheels. The paint, with gold and black accents, remains very presentable notwithstanding some nicks, scratches and surface texture. The 1928-vintage Model A four-cylinder engine is correctly painted in Ford green and drives through a standard three-speed transmission with a factory-optional two-speed.

The vending section of the body features excellent beveled and decorative glass with oak framing. The dual original eight-ounce popcorn poppers have been electrified for ease of use and are complete with two sets of popping pans (one for use and one for show), overhead heat lamps, and popping supplies. A replica Cretors steam engine and a replica “Roasty-Toasty Man” clown tumbler are driven by small electric motors and correctly occupy the rear-window shelf and the lower front shelf.

Red and white awnings extend from both sides with light fixtures for night use, and fixed sun visors are installed front and rear. Brightwork quality is very good, including the body corner moldings, chrome grille shell, stone screen, and dashboard instrument cluster. The oak flooring is nicely finished. The tires are in good condition, with plenty of tread and the undercarriage is unrestored and shows evidence of use, but we understand the truck runs, drives, and stops very well. Predictably, young and old love the festive vehicle, which has proven a very popular attraction at various events.

A custom-built, 2010 Continental Cargo 24-foot, three-axle trailer, with winch-operated rear door, side door, electric brakes, and 15,600-pound GVW rating, accompanies the truck. A fine example of the iconic mobile popcorn trucks of yesteryear, this truck and trailer combination is ideal for charity, commercial, or show use.