Who Invented the Sandwich Maker?
The sandwich maker is a common appliance in the household that is often advertised on television as a breakthrough new product. However, the invention of the sandwich toaster dates back to the early twentieth century. Numerous individuals claim to have invented the first sandwich maker. Does this Spark an idea?
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Tostwich by Charles Champion
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According to the Catlin Historical Society's website, Charles v. Champion, Sr. invented the sandwich maker before 1920. Champion applied for the patent in May 1924 and called it the "Tostwich," a combination sandwich press and electric toaster.
Mary Thomas and Bernhard Beskow
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On July 11, 1919, Mary A. Thomas and Bernhard M. Beskow filed for the patent for an "electric toaster." The drawing of their invention show two broiling pans affixed by a hinge. In fact, the drawing even shows a "toasted cheese" sandwich being prepared.
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The Maxi Sandwich Press
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Today, we are familiar with the Maxi Sandwich Press, which is manufactured by Breville. The original designed was patented in the U.S. by Richard George Wheeler on behalf of Breville on May 30, 1978. This device is more sophisticated than earlier models, with separate compartments that cut the sandwich into triangle-shaped portions.
Hand Grill
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On March 19, 1934, Benjamin H. Smith with Michigan Wire Goods Company filed for the patent of a "hand grill." This device consisted of two plates held on a pole that were clamped together and held over a fire. Subsequent inventions referenced this design when developing a hand-held sandwich toaster for use with campfires.
Geography
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Sandwich makers are known by many different names depending on the region and manufacturer. Common names include, pie iron, jaffle iron, pudgy pie iron, toastie maker and toastie pie maker.
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