When the population started trebling and homemakers began finding ways to ease their domestic tasks, microwave ovens came as a surprise that was both detestable and delectable. It was in the boomer period when microwave ovens were first made available for home use. No one contested that the new device would have promise for boomers, but many were initially unimpressed.
The microwave oven is the unpredicted offshoot of Dr. Percy Spencer who was then testing a new vacuum tube called “magnetron.” He spent time exploring the tube while placing some popcorn kernels near it. His fascination grew when he saw before his eyes how those kernels cracked and popped inside his laboratory. When the popcorn test was over, Spencer tried placing an egg near the tube and, together with his curious colleague, the two saw how the rising temperature caused internal pressure within the egg. What Spencer thought possible at that moment was the very same product that many, especially in the busy cities found useful— quick cooking.
It was only until 1947—the year following the start of the boomer period—that the first commercial microwave oven was made available. While it rings true that Dr. Spencer had revolutionized cooking, the earlier features of the microwave oven were not as appealing as they are today. It then weighed 750 pounds and stood 6 feet tall, which is reminiscent of refrigerators and other bulky home appliances. The cost of each unit was exorbitant at about $5,000 each. The plumbing installation system also made it complex for oven use.
The initial feedback was generally unsatisfactory. Sales were low and people had not yet seen the kind of oven they were looking for…ah, but things changed in time. As the first set of microwave ovens underwent refurbishments and refinements, customers began flocking to the stores. The price of the oven was made less expensive and technologically sophisticated features no longer required plumbing installation.
An unprecedented level of acceptance was reached in the immediate years not only in homes but also in the food business industry. Faster and fresher food was the guarantee offered by the oven and today, the device is considered a necessity both in the domestic and commercial market.
Do you remember your first microwave? I certainly remember mine. It was in my college cafeteria and we were told we needed to stand many feet back to avoid being nuked! What’s your memory? We’d love to hear. Come join boomeryearbook and continue your trip down memory lane.
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