Presto Kitchen Appliances: A Tradition of Innovation

The National Pressure Cooker Company of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, introduced the first saucepan-style pressure cooker under the brand name "Presto" in 1939. Consumers embraced the cooker's revolutionary rotating cover and reliable gasket seal. Fueled by its popularity, the company -- eventually renamed National Presto Industries -- expanded and diversified while continuing to produce an ever-improving line of pressure cookers.

"Presto" became synonymous with pressure cookers after World War II. The company retained its basic design (still used in modern pressure cookers) but continued developing new features. Encouraged by the success of its first electric appliance--a steam iron introduced in 1948--Presto created electric pressure cookers. The company also introduced new materials, like lightweight stainless steel and nonstick Teflon, as they became practical.

Presto introduced a removable heat control in 1956 that set a new industry standard for electric cooking appliances. The innovative "Control Master" allowed home cooks to wash their electric skillets, griddles, and other products safely and completely under water.

Another important development in electrical appliances came in 1958, when Presto introduced the first automatic, submersible stainless steel coffeemaker. An alternative option to brewing with stove-top percolators, Presto's electric coffeemakers also kept coffee warm for later serving.

Beginning in the 1960s, Presto contracted one of the most successful design firms in the Midwest to style its product line. The designers at Mel Boldt and Associates, based in Chicago, created a distinctive look for Presto's wide-ranging products--from traditional appliances in fashionable colors to completely novel appliances.

Presto expanded its offerings in the 1960s, introducing a range of novel products to appeal to consumers' changing tastes. In addition to portability, the multipurpose "Rock-'N-Mix" featured a specially designed thermal mixing bowl. With an associated accessory kit, the mixer could also sharpen knives and mix beverages.

Introduced in 1974, the "PrestoBurger" set off a new line of mini appliances offering convenience, especially for smaller households. It was a hit among consumers -- partly because it cooked hamburgers, consistently ranked among Americans' favorite foods -- and earned Presto the appliance manufacturers Pioneer Award.

Following its tradition of innovation, Presto introduced electric deep fryers in the 1970s. These fryers used oil efficiently and automatically maintained their frying temperature, giving them popular appeal. Presto's "Chicknfryer," a low pressure fryer, continued the company's long history in the pressure cooker business. It could be used with oil, to quickly fry a variety of dishes, or with water, to cook meat, vegetables, or steamed desserts.