Corn (maize) was first domesticated around 9000 BC and popcorn has been around since 3600 BC. Charles Cretors was from Lebanon, Ohio and moved to the Midwest to begin a bakery and confectionery business. Being also an amateur engineer, he wanted to perfect a roasted peanut cooker, along with the ability to vend the product on the street. On December 2, 1885, he introduced his cart on the streets of Chicago and the vending of popcorn was an immediate success.

By 1893, Cretors had developed a steam powered cart capable of roasting peanuts, brewing coffee, making popcorn, and baking chestnuts. Not only was the concept the first automated process for the snacks, but was made so that it reproduced the product exactly the same every time. Later that year, Cretors took his invention to Chicago's Columbian Exposition in 1893, where it was the hit of the event.

Charles Cretors founded C. Cretors & Company with his vending license in 1885 and the company still produces carts for vendors to include hot dogs, nachos, and caramelized food products.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org