In 1920s, William “Dad Popcorn” Vellenworth located his popcorn stand to the corner of Main and South Gay Streets, Susanville. Out of nowhere for no apparent reason on the afternoon of February 17, 1930 the steam boiler connected with the apparatus exploded, injuring not only “Dad Popcorn”, but two small girls, Shirley Shoemaker and Fannie Frizzie. The popcorn machine was blown to shreds, and it was a miracle that the three only sustained moderate injuries. Flying debris broke a window of the Bank of Lassen County, and also broke the rear window of Floyd Bass’ sedan among other items.
It was a devastating moment for Vellenworth, now approaching 80 years of age. The community came to his aid. Vellenworth, was a member of the fraternal organization, Loyal Order of Moose. That organization, along with donations by individuals raised funds and purchased him a new electric popcorn machine. He carried on for four more years, having a very loyal clientele, until his death in May 1934.
Great story Tim.
I wonder if my great grandfather was@the pioneer when he lost the window in his car
My mother Shirley Shewmaker was in that explosion.
One of the young girls mentioned was my grandmother “Shirley Shewmaker” is the correct spelling of her last name. And later on in her life she was also known as “Selna Wahl” the name she used on many of her beautiful painting’s.
So it was not microwaves?