Boothbay Harbor Maine Bill Bailey Popcorn Stand Ice Cream 1927 Real Photo Postcard

Bill Bailey, advertising his "famous Pop Korn," represents a common sight in early 20th-century American street commerce. Popcorn, popularized in the late 19th century with the advent of mobile steam-powered poppers, became a staple snack sold by independent vendors. The period from the 1910s through the 1930s saw a proliferation of such small businesses, often operating from carts or temporary stands, contributing to the vibrant street life of towns and cities.

The inclusion of a goat as a marketing gimmick, positioned on a stand next to the popcorn display, exemplifies the creative and often theatrical methods employed by vendors to attract customers. Such animal acts tapped into the era's broader cultural appreciation for novelty and entertainment, drawing parallels to vaudeville and carnival traditions. This entrepreneurial spirit, evident in unique branding like "Beware of Imitations," underscores the competitive nature of the market for affordable, accessible treats during a time of significant economic and social change.