Minnesota
Inventors Hall of Fame

Charles P. Strite
Charles P. Strite is the inventor known for inventing the pop-up toaster. The holder of multiple patents on toasters, he received his first patent on the toaster on October 18, 1921, having U.S. Patent No. 1394450. Afterward, Strite formed the Waters Genter Company and started selling the pop-up toaster in 1926. An exceptional invention that changed the culinary arts forever, millions of Strite’s toasters were sold within the first five years of his company, and by the 1960s the toaster was found in the majority of kitchens across the United States. The company eventually became Toastmaster, Inc., which still produces kitchen appliances found worldwide.
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Born in Ohio on February 27, 1878, and eventually moving to Minnesota, Strite invented the pop-up toaster in 1919. At the time, he worked at a factory in Stillwater, Minnesota, where the cafeteria was known for serving burnt toast often.
​The toasters at the time had to be watched to avoid burning the bread and only one side of the bread could be toasted at a time. Strite solved both problems with his toaster, which contained heating elements to toast both sides of a piece of bread simultaneously and a spring mechanism to pop up the toast when it was finished toasting. Also, with the simple push of a lever, bread slices descended into the toaster's chambers, emerging moments later perfectly toasted and ready to enjoy. Some would argue that his invention was responsible for the early success of sliced bread.
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The widespread adoption of the pop-up toaster transformed breakfast routines across the globe. This newfound convenience of the pop-up toaster not only saved time but also elevated the humble slice of toast to a culinary staple. Beyond its practical utility, Strite's invention also sparked a cultural shift. The toaster symbolized progress and modernity, emblematic of humanity's ongoing quest to simplify and streamline everyday tasks. As more households embraced his invention, the breakfast table became a space for innovation and experimentation, with various toppings and accompaniments enhancing the simple pleasure of toast.
Today, the pop-up toaster stands as a testament to Charles Strite's enduring legacy. From its humble origins in Stillwater, the birthplace of the pop-up toaster and Minnesota, to its status as an indispensable kitchen appliance, the toaster remains a testament to one man's ingenuity and perseverance. Strite, after having much success, moved to Minneapolis and continued his quest for the perfect piece of toast.