For 50 years, Popeil Brothers and Ronco Company’s high-energy commercials have intruded into Americans’ living rooms by way of their televisions. Thus many homes bear evidence of their seductive commercials and advertising.
Countless Veg-O-Matics, Seal-A-Meals, Kitchen Magicians, Pocket Fishermans and other gadgets tucked away in kitchen cupboards give testimony to the power of broadcast salesmanship. They are the precursor to infomercials.
Explore this fascinating Chicago business at the exhibit But Wait... There’s More! The Irresistible Appeal and Spiel of Ronco and Popeil! on display January 28 to April 30 in the Special Collections Exhibit Hall on the 9th floor of Harold Washington Library Center.
This dynamic, colorful and amusing exhibit tells the classic "rags to riches" story of this fascinating business whose name has become synonymous with the word "widget." The interactive exhibit depicts the company's impact and influence on advertising, cultural and social history.
The exhibit is produced by the Elmhurst Historical Museum, a department of The City of Elmhurst, Illinois.
