News : Former Vinton Popcorn plant may be demolished; city council ponders flood buyout

The Vinton Popcorn facility created products known throughout the U.S. for decades.

A writer in New Yorker used two words when writing about the annual National Fancy Food and Confection Show in the 1970s.

A Chicago Sun Times writer used those two words when discussing agriculture prices and how they impact the foods people buy in 1988.

And in the 1960s, the Cedar Rapids Corvette Club used those two words as part of its history of events.

And when U.S. hostage and Iowa native Kathryn Koob was asked at the end of her 444-day ordeal in Iran what she looked forward to next, she also uttered those two words:

Vinton Popcorn.

For decades, Vinton Popcorn employed many Vinton residents and fed many Americans some of the popcorn that people still refer to as the best they ever ate.

And at times throughout history, news writers and news events brought new life and new attention to the treats made in Vinton.

Now – 30 years after the Kathryn Koob comment resulted in orders for Vinton Popcorn from all over the U.S. – the place where that popcorn was made may come to an end.

Vinton Popcorn closed in the 1990s and was sold in 1998. The facility was damaged during the Flood of 2008.

During its meeting last Thursday, the Vinton City Council approved a contract for an environmental study concerning the former popcorn plant, as well as the Farmers Sales and Service facility on 4th Street. Both places were under several feet of water during the Flood of June 2008.

For a fee of $2,400, the Tri-Leaf company of Grimes will study the environmental impact of demolishing the structures. The study is required by FEMA, which will reimburse the city for the expense.

Mayor John Watson told the council that the owner has expressed interest in the buyout but has not made a final decision. Under FEMA guidelines, a property owner can change his mind anytime before the deal to transfer ownership of the property is closed. The Iowa Assessors web site lists Bernie Markey of Hills as the current owner. The facility was last used as a consignment shop.

Vinton Popcorn memories

During a discussion of the Vinton Popcorn facility on the Vinton Today Facebook page, several readers shared their insights. The first three comments were:

Kathy Shipley My Mom worked here for years. We always enjoyed the various flavors she would bring home. Cheddar, Chocolate and the all time favorite..Cinnamon!!

David T. Ehlers I have many memories of Vinton Popcorn. I used to live only a few blocks from there. I have never found any popcorn that tasted that good. After we moved from Vinton, every time we came back I had to head overthere. I was so disapointed one day when I drove over there and it was closed.

Deborah Brown Same for me, David. Best popcorn EVER!!!