Popcorn Day!

If your family is anything like mine, popcorn holds a special place in your hearts. It's our go-to favorite, that fluffy, crunchy snack we just can't get enough of. While celebrating this delicious day, here are a few popcorn tidbits that might add some extra pop to your appreciation for this beloved treat.

Ever wondered why the corn on your dinner table doesn't magically turn into popcorn? Well, that's because the corn we eat and the corn we pop are two different varieties of maize. The exclusive popcorn-making variety is known as Zea mays everta, characterized by its small ears and kernels that burst open when exposed to dry heat.

Here's a fascinating fact, especially for fellow New Mexicans like me: In 1948, Herbert Dick and Earle Smith stumbled upon small heads of Zea mays everta in the Bat Cave of west-central New Mexico. Ranging from smaller than a penny to about two inches, these ancient Bat Cave ears were approximately 4,000 years old. Some individually popped kernels were also discovered, carbon-dated to around 5,600 years old. Popcorn has left its crunchy mark not just in New Mexico but also in places like Peru, Mexico, Guatemala, and various regions of Central and South America.

The rise of popcorn in the United States traces back to the mid-1800s, but it wasn't until Charles Cretors, a candy-store owner, introduced a steam-powered popcorn-popping machine that this tasty treat truly took off. By 1900, Cretors had popcorn wagons, drawn by horses, traversing the streets of Chicago, making popcorn more readily available and delighting the taste buds of many.

Around the same era, Louise Ruckheim made a delightful addition to popcorn's repertoire by introducing peanuts and molasses, creating the iconic Cracker Jack. This sweet and savory combination quickly gained popularity, adding a new dimension to the popcorn experience.

In 1908, a pivotal moment occurred for both popcorn and baseball. Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer penned the famous song "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," which would go on to become the national anthem of baseball. With its enduring association with the sport, especially during those exciting moments at the ballpark, popcorn, and in particular, Cracker Jack, became forever intertwined with America's favorite pastime.

From the streets of Chicago to the baseball stands, the journey of popcorn in the late 1800s and early 1900s is a tale of innovation, culinary creativity, and a cultural connection that has stood the test of time. So, the next time you enjoy a bag of popcorn at a game, you can thank Charles Cretors, Louise Ruckheim, and the creators of the baseball anthem for making this crunchy snack a beloved part of American traditions.

The next time you are at a Jacksonville Florida Jumbo shrimp baseball game or Jaguars NFL foot ball game don’t forget to take lots of pictures and eat lots of popcorn.