In 1905, the modern electric toaster was the new iPad 2. It wasn't until 1906 that nichrome, a very hardy wire that can withstand high heat, was invented, that the toaster could function the way we know it today. Before that, the metal wires melted or caught on fire. A very dangerous household item. After nichrome was invented, toasters of all shape, sizes, and styles came about.
Cool dates:
1920 - Charles P. Strite, from Stillwater, Minnesota, invents the pop-up toaster
1928 - The first pre-sliced bread sold
The toaster in our museum has two swinging doors made by Landers, Frary & Clark under the name Universal. Both the front and back had swinging doors that would flip over to toast both sides of the bread. Inside are metal coils where the electricity runs through in wavy "U" formations. See how the swinging door works?
Can you find pre-modern appliances in your home?
For more information in general on toasters see The Cyber Toaster Museum.
