Author shares fascination with TV pitchmen, their gadgets

As Tim Samuelson readily admits in the preface to his book "But Wait, There's More! The Irresistible Appeal and Spiel of Ronco and Popeil," when he first became fascinated with collecting those handy, helpful products sold by TV pitchmen, he was inclined to keep his fascination to himself. Perhaps plastic gadgets with "O-Matic" in their names could be considered a bit lowbrow and might make people reconsider his reputation as a respected author, architectural historian and the official cultural historian of Chicago.

But that didn't stop Samuelson from collecting through garage sales, resale shops and online auctions, seeking all things emblazoned with the name Ronco or Popeil. The result is a vast array of Veg-O-Matics, Chop-O-Matics, Inside-the-Shell Egg Scramblers and so many more - the same products that have occupied space in America's cupboards for decades. It would seem Samuelson is not the only one who finds it hard to resist the allure of the well-designed gizmos.

Samuelson's fascination led to the publication of the 2002 book published by Rizzoli International Publications. Now his collection and book are on display at the Elmhurst History Museum through Sept. 18 in a new exhibit also entitled "But Wait, There's More!"

To share insights on his personal collection and some of the interesting things he learned as he researched the Popeil/Ronco story, Samuelson will present a lecture at 7 p.m. Sunday, June 26, at the Elmhurst History Museum's Education Center, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. A book-signing will follow the talk, and a few copies of "But Wait, There's More!" will be for sale. The program is free. Limited on-site parking is available.

Before the talk, participants are invited to check out the "But Wait, There's More!" exhibit in the Glos Mansion that houses the Elmhurst History Museum. The museum is open 1 to 5 p.m. June 26. Admission is free. For information, visit elmhursthistory.org or call (630) 833-1457.