Originally starting as a sawmill, the Tennessee Furniture Company of Chattanooga opened in 1865. It began as an offshoot of the sawmill, in order to sell off the flawed pieces of wood that wouldn’t have sold otherwise. Gaston Raoul was the second owner of the furniture company. He bought an additional enterprise, the Odorless Refrigeration Company, in 1905, which enabled the Tennessee Furniture Company to rapidly become the largest manufacturer of ice coolers in the country. They chose the name “Cavalier” in 1923 for their line of cedar hope chests and soda coolers but they continued to make furniture in the division known as the Tennessee Furniture Company until 1960.
In 1935, during the Depression, the Cavalier division of the Tennessee Furniture Company began a long-standing relationship with the Coca-Cola Company. Under the name “Cavalier”, they made soda machines, coolers and picnic chests to the exacting specifications of the Coca-Cola Company. In 1938 the company name was officially changed to the Cavalier Corporation. Some of the early coolers made by Cavalier include the Junior, Standard, Master and Giant model chest coolers. Cavalier made products exclusively for Coca-Cola right through the 1960’s. In 1958 Cavalier advertising proclaimed they had sold “more than half a million coolers since 1935”.
Post-WWII most vendor manufacturers were focusing on the production of upright machines, but Cavalier continued to concentrate on coolers. In 1945 they introduced the model FD-2, or the dry office cooler. It was designed for low-traffic areas like offices and retail stores. Cavalier joined other manufacturers in producing upright coin-operated vending machines in 1953 when they introduced the C-51. It had a very similar appearance to the Vendo-39; only it was larger and able to vend 51 bottles, as opposed to the Vendo’s 39 bottles.
One of the most popular Cavalier models of vending machine is the CS-72 that was produced from 1958 to 1959. This is still a very desirable machine, since it is able to vend up to nine different flavors of soda. It holds eight bottles on nine slant shelves, instead of using a conveyor system that was capable of vending only one type of soft drink. This innovative model was the first to be designed without the crank handle on the outside. Instead, once the money is deposited, the “Have a Coke” lens lights up, indicating the door is ready to be opened and a bottle of soda pulled out. Cavalier was responsible for many “firsts” in the vending market. The Cavalier Corporation was also the first to introduce a vending machine that was able to dispense either bottles or cans of soda. This was the “square-corner” C-55D vendor introduced in 1959. In the 1960’s Cavalier was taken over by the Seeburg Corporation. In turn, Seeburg was taken over by a succession of companies. In 1987 the Cavalier division filed for bankruptcy and was spun off as an employee-owned company. In August of 2000 the plant was closed for good.
Cavalier Corporation
1105 East Tenth Street
Chattanooga, Tennessee
62 responses so far ↓
1 trish // Nov 6, 2008 at 3:48 pm
My former employer gave me a coke machine.
I’m looking for a repair manual for uss-10-130/80 s. I think it’s a 1971 but it’s a great conversation I keep in my house.
2 Terrance // Nov 9, 2008 at 9:37 am
I am looking for parts and drawings for a model vending machine. Model No. C8-392
The serial number is 31537
3 Jon // Nov 23, 2008 at 10:08 am
I am also looking for service information for the exact same model Cavalier (C8-392), serial number 54554
4 janet salesky // Nov 26, 2008 at 10:52 am
I have a cedar chest that was made by Cavalier Corp. It has a civil war dressed man holding a gun burned into the inside of the chest under the man is the word cavalier. Is this one of the products this company made and can you tell me how old it is?
5 Eric // Jan 4, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Looking for tech and service info on model USS-8-64. Trips breakers when plugged.
6 philiph purcell // Feb 1, 2009 at 1:56 pm
looking for tech,service,manuals,and parts on model uss-8-64. ser.#58170 cooler#3227. need new fan,coil,and compresser.
7 K-DAN FARMS // Feb 4, 2009 at 5:17 pm
I HAVE A MODEL #05215120 AND I NEED PARTS CAN I ORDER THEM THROUGH YOU OR CAN YOU RECOMMEND A DISTRIBUTER? THANKS, KEVIN
8 Keith // Feb 6, 2009 at 7:16 pm
For anyone looking for parts you should try http://www.fun-tronicsllc.com/. Also http://soda-machines.com/ is a good resource and there is always ebay.
9 Robert // Feb 20, 2009 at 4:59 pm
looking for information for a Cavalier 27 bottle dry vendor 1949, is any book out there for me to know the price and how many the factory produce of this beautiful machine?
Thank you very much, Robert
10 Sandra // Feb 21, 2009 at 8:33 pm
I have a single selection cavalier css-124 coke vending machine . I would like to get some information on how much it is worth, restored or not restored.
11 carmenguffey // Mar 4, 2009 at 9:22 pm
To whom it may concern,
I have a model css-/64f0 and I am in need of a coin mechinisem, can I buy one from you or can you tell me who I can get one from?
12 Marc Mann // Mar 8, 2009 at 6:41 pm
I have a CAV 873 Ser# 92672. I am looking for a compressor and fan coil unit. I have had it 29 years and cannot let go!
13 Donna Johnson // Mar 16, 2009 at 5:17 pm
I have a cedar chest that is made by the Cavalier Corporation. Serial #0.0.20-1919. could you please tell me how old is it and what it is worth.
14 Donna Johnson // Mar 16, 2009 at 5:19 pm
In Addition there is a Civil War dressed man with the word Cavalier underneath and a combination and key lock on it.
15 vintagevending // Mar 17, 2009 at 12:52 pm
We aren’t able to give estimates on the value of an item. If you keep an eye on Ebay or maybe Craig’s List, your item is sure to be listed at some point. That may give you a rough idea of it’s value but keep in mind to compare apples to apples. Prices vary greatly depending on condition. If anyone can help with a value of this item please blog in.
16 terry // Mar 24, 2009 at 9:52 am
looking for a cooling unit for 1960 vendo coke machine.
17 Steve Rodzinak // Apr 17, 2009 at 8:04 pm
I have a westinghouse model WB60-K6D Serial no 256242272 and am looking for a key. The maching works but it’s useless unless I can open it and stock it with my favorite beverage LOL
18 jon // Apr 24, 2009 at 8:55 pm
i have a Cavalier model # css-120G ser. # 545330 and my kids have lost my key. can someone help me in finding a new one? thank you
19 vintagevending // Apr 27, 2009 at 9:13 am
We recommend you check out Fun-Tronics LLC. for soda machine restoration parts. They have a good variety of quality parts.
20 Paul Ross // May 2, 2009 at 2:03 pm
I have acquired a coca-cola soda cooler and I’m looking for information. I have not found a model number but it has serial #50628. It was manufactured by Cavalier Corp of Chatt., Tenn. In side the box, it has TN-41-7. It is a chest type cooler and uses water. The doors open from either end and hinge in the middle. An information you can provide would be appreciated.
21 BELINDA // May 3, 2009 at 4:59 pm
i lost the key i was wondering if anyone knows how to get it open without the key or how i can get an key
22 vintagevending // May 5, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Jon and Belinda,
For lost keys, you can either try to purchase a key that matches the lock number on your machine, or you can replace the lock mechanism. This requires drilling the lock, turning it with a flat head screwdriver to open it, removing the lock, and replacing it. I can email you the directions.
23 phillipe // May 19, 2009 at 2:28 am
this is great i work on all older models soda, coffee, candy. EPA cert. enjoy your cavaliers they are great.
24 drinkbox man // Jun 10, 2009 at 9:10 pm
need a new lock in my machine, can you tell me how I can purchase one from., or how to get it open also.
25 vintagevending // Jun 12, 2009 at 9:14 am
For lost keys, you can either try to purchase a key that matches the lock number on your machine, or you can replace the lock mechanism. This requires drilling the lock, turning it with a flat head screwdriver to open it, removing the lock, and replacing it. Check out http://www.fun-tronicsllc.com for many replacement parts for machines. They might have lock mechanisms too.
26 Steve // Jun 27, 2009 at 12:51 pm
I have lost my key. I have a CSS 12-96
Serial number 22848
Number on the lock itself is CAV 18 or 78, hard to tell
Do you sell a key for this?
27 vintagevending // Jun 29, 2009 at 9:31 am
Steve,
We do not sell keys or locks for machines, but you can contact fun-tronicsllc.com (217) 857-1759. They sell replacement locks and keys for many different machines.
28 Jackie // Jul 8, 2009 at 10:49 pm
I have a model CS-64C Coca-Cola vending machine. Would appreciate some history on this machine and also what the fair market price for the machine is today. The machine has not been refurbished, but is in working condition.
Thank you.
29 mike // Jul 17, 2009 at 10:08 pm
I have had a Cavalier 1USS-9610 that was given to us, it was thought it wasn’t working, but once running it appears to be cooling, but the compressor part does get very hot, I can’t seem to find any info on this model at all, is this normal operations for this machine? and where might one find a manual for it?
30 vintagevending // Jul 20, 2009 at 9:20 am
Mike,
You should try fun-tronicsllc.com. They have manuals and parts for many Cavalier machines.
31 BOB DRISTE // Jul 26, 2009 at 8:36 pm
WE HAVE A CEDAR CHEST MADE BY CAVALIER CORPORATION. ON THE THE BOTTOM OF THE CHEST THERE IS A LABEL THAT STATES “PATTERN #411 RUN #6581″. CAN YOU GIVE ME ANY INFORMATION AS TO ITS AGE AND POSSIBLE WORTH?
THANKS
32 vintagevending // Jul 27, 2009 at 3:00 pm
We aren’t able to give estimates on the value of an item. If you keep an eye on Ebay or Craig’s List, your item is sure to be listed at some point. That may give you a rough idea of it’s value but keep in mind prices vary greatly depending on condition. If anyone can help with a value of this item please comment.
33 A Nowell // Aug 7, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Hi
I’m sure you get a lot of these questions. I acquired a very old Coke machine and have been told it was one made in the first year that the Coca-Cola company stopped making “round top” machines and began making “square top” machines. The machine itself is not very high - maybe 5 or so feet? It has a flat front, and the only other features on front are the Coke Logo, a coin insert and a dispenser at the bottom. No doors, nothing to select from, all it served was a Coke at one time. About 3 years ago, I had it stored in my garage. One day the garage door was open, and a passerby stopped and offered me $3,000.00 for it. I did not sell it, but I did move it inside my house! At this particular moment in time, I wish I had sold it.
So, as a busy single mother of two, I have finally sat down to take some time to research this treasure that I have. I do not know what year it was made. I am unable to take a digital picture for the purpose of downloading. All I can tell you is that it was made by the Cavalier Corp. in Chattanooga, TN. Serial number is 410841, model C-59E. Other misc info: 6 amps, test pressure 235 lbs.
Do you know anything about this machine, or can you point me in the right direction?
Thank you,
A. Nowell
34 Chris // Aug 16, 2009 at 10:35 am
I have a chest machine…model # CGD-C…Seriel # 418579,made by Cavalier in Chattanooga,Tn…Can you tell me the year it was made….
35 vintagevending // Aug 17, 2009 at 9:47 am
Chris,
We can’t help you out with the year, but try contacting fun-tronicsllc.com (217) 857-1759. They are in the restoration business, and have a lot of information on many types of machines.
36 nick // Aug 29, 2009 at 5:55 pm
i have i coke cav css64fs model coke machine for sale all there and working order needs a fresh paint job a bit weathered but in good shape over all coin opp there as well my number is 260 710 6646
37 Frank // Sep 6, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Looking for information on Cornelius “Slider” Compact 50 drink machine. Please help.
38 leonard // Sep 18, 2009 at 6:26 pm
where can I find a wiring diagram of a certain cavalier vender since they are no longer in business, thx
39 vintagevending // Sep 21, 2009 at 9:07 am
Leonard,
fun-tronicsllc.com or call them at (217) 857-1759.
40 Shawn // Sep 29, 2009 at 12:36 pm
I am looking for manuals/parts for a Cornelius Compact 72 ’slider’ machine. Any idea wher eI can find them? fun-tronicsllc.com was a bust.
41 Ralph // Oct 12, 2009 at 6:33 am
I have a cavalier MC80 that was made in 2000 I am looking for some kind of book on it
42 Kay // Nov 5, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Do you know where I can find a coin changer and a key for a Cavalier USS 12-96?
43 vintagevending // Nov 6, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Kay,
Try fun-tronicsllc.com.
44 Pam // Nov 6, 2009 at 4:53 pm
I have a Cavalier Coke Machine, Model # USS 8-64. Serial # 305183. I need a compresser for it. Anyone know where I can get one?
45 Mike V. // Nov 14, 2009 at 5:20 pm
I have a cavalier css-64fs coke machine. I need a coin entry bezel and the metal rectangular frame that goes around the drink coca cola sign panel on the upper front of the machine. Thanx, my e-mail is biggueromike@yahoo.com Does anyone know where I can get these parts?
46 KELLY BERTOCH // Dec 2, 2009 at 1:44 pm
I HAVE A CAV. MOD. # C8 564 S.N. 30840 HOW CAN I FIND A SERVICE MANUEL FOR THIS MACHINE, THANKS
47 vintagevending // Dec 2, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Kelly,
http://fun-tronicsllc.com sells service manuals for cavaliers.
48 Bettie Strother // Dec 11, 2009 at 10:04 pm
I have a Coke Box that cools with water. It was my by Cavaliet Corp in 1943. The thermoastat has gone by and I need a replacement for it. All the other part are original. Where do I go to find a replacement for the thermostat?
49 LOUIE T // Dec 13, 2009 at 1:43 pm
I HAVE A CAVALIER C-51 G SERIAL # 291653 MY EMAIL IS ltippett@knology.net
WHAT YEAR WAS IT MADE
WHAT IS VALUE EXCELLENT CONDITION
THANKS LOUIE
50 vintagevending // Dec 14, 2009 at 10:10 am
Bettie,
Try fun-tronicsllc.com. They have may parts for a large variety of machines.
51 David // Dec 15, 2009 at 3:53 pm
a friend just purchased a cavalier CAV-873 model and i was wondering where to get a new compressor for it as it has the old one but at some point and time someone cut it out so i am sure it is ruined i looked at the funtronics website they have nothing listed for the CAV-873 so is there anywhere else I can find replacement parts for this unit?
52 vintagevending // Dec 16, 2009 at 10:10 am
David,
Sometimes these are put up on ebay for sale. If anyone else has ideas, please comment.
53 Don // Dec 27, 2009 at 7:42 am
I have a Cavalier coca-cola vending machine model USS-8-64 and would like a manual or parts list. Am trying to find the starter ballast for the door florescent tube.
54 vintagevending // Dec 28, 2009 at 10:21 am
Don,
Try fun-tronicsllc.com. They have manuals and parts for many Cavalier machines.
55 Douglas Carpenter // Feb 5, 2010 at 8:44 pm
I have a cavalier coke machine sn343950 model cs64, how old is it? Istill runs great, but neds to be restored badly. whats its value?
56 vintagevending // Feb 9, 2010 at 11:19 am
Douglas,
We are not able to give estimates on the value of machines. Try ebay, they actually have a few Cavaliers posted for sale. This should give you an estimate, but keep in mind value depends on condition.
57 RA // Feb 23, 2010 at 8:39 pm
Hello,
Just acquiered a WB60-K6D, it is operational but I have no keys…. The lock has WEX2 on it.
Any ideas ?
Cheers
58 paulroger // Feb 23, 2010 at 11:45 pm
i can’t find any information on a C-55E cavalier
59 vintagevending // Feb 24, 2010 at 3:30 pm
For lost keys, you can either try to purchase a key that matches the lock number on your machine, or you can replace the lock mechanism. This requires drilling the lock, turning it with a flat head screwdriver to open it, removing the lock, and replacing it.
60 vintagevending // Feb 26, 2010 at 3:49 pm
Paul,
Check this out: http://www.colamachines.com/xcart/product.php?printable=Y&productid=12202042&cat=261&page=1&js=n
61 Shera Madison // Mar 7, 2010 at 11:38 pm
I have a Pepsi machine with the model # 1uss-64401 made by the cavalier corporation. I have read that cavalier had a relationship with coca-cola however, this machine is advertises pepsi-cola. It is a square top machine with a glass door and hold eight different sodas. I am trying to acquire some information on this machine. Please send me a website or any information that maybe available on this machine.
62 vintagevending // Mar 8, 2010 at 3:48 pm
Shera,
Up until the 1950’s all Cavalier models were produced exclusively for Coca-Cola. After this, they started doing other soda companies, like Pepsi. The only machine I could find that was close to yours can be seen here: http://kiddieridemall.com/bandbuss64cokemachine.htm
You could try ebay or Craig’s List to see if anyone has posted a machine like yours, this could give you more information.
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