Charles Strite

Early Life and Background

Charles Perkins Strite, born February 27, 1878, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was an American inventor who is most famous for creating the automatic pop-up toaster. His invention revolutionized breakfast by providing a fast and consistent method of toasting bread.

Observing the Problem in Toasting

During World War I, Strite was employed in a factory in Stillwater, Minnesota. He noted that the cafeteria usually served burnt toast, a frequent problem with the then-available toasters. Early electric toasters needed constant attention and manual flipping of the bread to avoid burning because they only toasted one side at a time. This hassle prompted Strite to come up with a better solution.

Invention of the Automatic Pop-Up Toaster

Strite began developing his automatic toaster design in 1919. His design had heating elements that toasted the bread on both sides simultaneously, a timer to control the toasting period, and a spring mechanism to eject the toast once toasted. The “pop-up” feature ensured the toast would not burn if left unattended.

Patent and Formation of the Waters-Genter Company

Strite applied for a patent on May 29, 1919, and received U.S. Patent No. 1,394,450 on October 18, 1921. Following the patent, he joined investors Glen Waters and Harold Genter to establish the Waters-Genter Company in Minneapolis. They aimed to manufacture and market the toaster, which they branded as the “Toastmaster”, and sell it to restaurants, hotels, and coffee shops. These early business models could toast multiple slices at a time, which addressed the high demands of such enterprises.

Expansion into the Consumer Market

In 1926, the Waters-Genter Company released an improved home model of the toaster. The new design included an option for consumers to regulate the darkness of toast, allowing for a customized toasting experience. The simplicity and dependability of the Toastmaster led to its rapid acceptance in American homes, with over a million units being sold annually by 1930.

Impact and Legacy of the Toastmaster

The Toastmaster’s success made the name a household brand, synonymous with automatic toasters. The Waters-Genter Company eventually became the Toastmaster Division of McGraw-Electric Company. Strite’s invention not only revolutionized breakfast preparation but also set new standards for kitchen automation, influencing the design of many modern domestic appliances.

Transforming Everyday Life

Prior to Strite’s innovation, toasting bread was a time-consuming process. Early electric toasters in the early 20th century required users to manually turn the bread halfway through the process while keeping a close watch to prevent burning. Strite’s automatic pop-up toaster solved these issues by introducing simultaneous double-sided toasting and an automated ejection process, significantly enhancing user convenience and safety.

Further Developments in Toaster Technology

Strite continued refining his invention, obtaining additional patents related to toaster technology. His work laid the foundation for today’s toasters, many of which still rely on the same principles he introduced. Strite remained actively involved in his business throughout his life, witnessing firsthand the tremendous impact of his invention on everyday life.

Death and Lasting Influence

Charles Strite passed away on October 18, 1956. His work endures through the automatic pop-up toaster, an appliance now found in most kitchens worldwide. Strite’s story exemplifies how recognizing and addressing common everyday problems can lead to innovations that profoundly impact society. His contributions to home technology remain a testament to American ingenuity and enterprise in the early 20th century.