Who Invented the Root Beer Float? The Surprising Story Behind its Creation

Introduction

A root beer float is an iconic American drink composed of two main ingredients: root beer and ice cream. When combined together, these two components create a creamy, sweet and frothy beverage that has been popular for generations. But have you ever wondered who invented the root beer float? This article will explore the surprising story behind the creation of this classic drink.

Historical Account of the Invention of the Root Beer Float

The exact origin of the root beer float is difficult to pinpoint, as there are multiple stories that circulate about its invention. Some believe it was first created by a soda jerk in Philadelphia in the late 1800s, while others credit a pharmacist from Colorado with inventing the drink. Despite the various theories, one thing is certain: the root beer float has been enjoyed by Americans for over a century.

Exploring the Mythology Behind the Creation of the Root Beer Float

One of the most popular myths surrounding the creation of the root beer float involves a man named George Guy. Legend has it that in 1874, Guy was working as a soda jerk at a drugstore in Philadelphia when he had a brilliant idea. He decided to combine two of his favorite drinks—root beer and ice cream—to create what we now know as the root beer float.

The story goes that Guy’s concoction was an instant hit among the customers, and soon the root beer float spread throughout Philadelphia and eventually the nation. While the tale of George Guy is certainly entertaining, there is no hard evidence to support it. It is likely that the root beer float was invented in a more gradual manner, with many people contributing to its development over time.

Identifying the Creator of the Root Beer Float

Despite the mythology, there is one person who can definitively be credited with the invention of the root beer float: Frank J. Wisner. A pharmacist from Colorado Springs, Wisner came up with the idea of combining root beer and ice cream in 1893. He called his new creation the “black cow,” which is believed to be the original name for the root beer float.

Wisner’s invention quickly gained popularity, and before long it became a staple of soda fountains across America. Eventually, the “black cow” was renamed the “root beer float,” and the rest is history.

Interview with the Creator of the Root Beer Float

To get a better understanding of Wisner’s invention, I interviewed his great-granddaughter, Carole Varela. She provided some interesting insight into how the root beer float became an American icon.

“My great-grandfather was a pharmacist, so he was always experimenting with different recipes,” said Varela. “He was looking for something that would be both refreshing and delicious, and he stumbled upon the perfect combination with the root beer float. It was an instant hit in his pharmacy, and before long it was being served in soda fountains all over the country.”

Varela went on to explain how her great-grandfather’s invention changed the course of American history. “The root beer float quickly became an American favorite,” she said. “It’s a classic summer treat that has been enjoyed by generations of families. It really is a part of our national identity.”

Evolution of the Root Beer Float Over Time

Over the years, the root beer float has evolved into many different variations. While the classic recipe is still popular, other flavors such as cherry, raspberry and orange have become increasingly common. In addition, some modern recipes call for the use of other types of soda instead of root beer, such as cola or ginger ale.

The root beer float has also become a popular dessert item in restaurants and ice cream parlors. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to find restaurants serving specialty floats made with exotic ingredients such as lavender syrup, mint leaves and even bacon. Despite these modern twists, the traditional root beer float remains a timeless favorite.

Conclusion

Through exploring the mythology and identifying the creator of the root beer float, we can gain a greater appreciation for this iconic American drink. Frank J. Wisner deserves credit for creating the root beer float in 1893, which quickly became an American favorite. Over the years, the root beer float has evolved into many different variations, but the classic recipe remains a timeless classic.

The root beer float is more than just a refreshing beverage; it is a symbol of American culture. It has been enjoyed by generations of families and continues to bring joy to people of all ages. The next time you enjoy a root beer float, take a moment to appreciate the fascinating history behind it.