The ice cream sundae, a beloved dessert enjoyed worldwide, boasts a history as rich and layered as the treat itself. While pinpointing the exact moment of its creation remains a delicious debate, several compelling narratives offer clues to its tantalizing origins. Buckle up as we delve into the frosty folklore surrounding this iconic sweet.
The Battle of the Midwestern Towns: Multiple Claims to Fame
The most prominent stories surrounding the sundae’s birth center around several Midwestern towns, each vying for the honor of being its birthplace. Let’s explore the claims of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, Evanston, Illinois, Ithaca, New York, and Plainfield, Illinois.
Two Rivers, Wisconsin: The Accidental Inspiration
One of the most popular stories attributes the sundae’s creation to Edward Berners, owner of Berners’ Ice Cream Parlor in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. As the tale goes, in 1881, a customer named George Hallauer requested that Berners top a dish of ice cream with chocolate syrup, which was usually reserved for ice cream sodas. Berners initially hesitated but obliged, creating a novel treat.
Hallauer enjoyed the concoction so much that he requested it again on subsequent visits. Berners, recognizing its appeal, added it to his menu, initially selling it only on Sundays, hence the name “Sundae.” It’s said that the “e” was later dropped to avoid offending religious sensibilities.
While Two Rivers has embraced this narrative, complete with historical markers and annual celebrations, concrete evidence from the time remains elusive.
Evanston, Illinois: A Blue Law’s Influence?
Another contender in the sundae’s origin story is Evanston, Illinois. In the late 19th century, Evanston had strict “blue laws” prohibiting the sale of soda on Sundays. This posed a problem for ice cream parlors that relied on soda for their ice cream sodas, a popular treat.
To circumvent the law and still offer a desirable dessert, some claim that Evanston establishments began serving ice cream with syrup without the soda. The dish became known as “Sundae” as it was primarily sold on Sundays. However, documented evidence supporting this claim is also scarce. The blue laws of Evanston, though present, are circumstantial in proving the sundae’s genesis.
Ithaca, New York: The Pharmacy Angle
Ithaca, New York, puts forth a different perspective, centering on the Platt & Colt Pharmacy. According to their account, in 1892, Chester Platt, the pharmacy’s dispenser, created a special treat for Reverend John M. Scott, who frequented the establishment after church services on Sundays.
Platt topped a dish of vanilla ice cream with cherry syrup and candied cherries. Reverend Scott allegedly loved the creation so much that he suggested it be named after the day it was created, “Sunday.” Platt then supposedly changed the spelling to “Sundae.”
Ithaca has actively promoted its claim, presenting historical evidence such as newspaper clippings and advertisements to bolster its case. This claim arguably has the strongest supporting documentation.
Plainfield, Illinois: The Unknown Contender
Plainfield, Illinois, offers a less-known but still interesting perspective. Some residents claim that the sundae originated in their town, though the specifics of this claim are not as widely documented or promoted as the other three towns. Little historical evidence has surfaced to strongly support Plainfield’s claim.
Debunking and Difficulties: The Challenges of Tracing the Truth
Despite the passionate arguments and local pride surrounding each claim, definitively proving the sundae’s sole origin remains a challenge. Several factors contribute to this difficulty.
The late 19th century was a time of burgeoning innovation and experimentation in the culinary world. Ice cream parlors were becoming increasingly popular, and competition was fierce. Chefs and soda fountain operators were constantly looking for ways to attract customers with new and exciting creations.
Given this environment, it is entirely possible that similar desserts were being developed independently in different locations simultaneously. The lack of robust record-keeping practices in many establishments further complicates matters. Many early ice cream parlors operated on a small scale, and their records may not have been preserved or may have been lost over time.
Furthermore, oral histories and anecdotes, while valuable, can be subject to embellishment and distortion as they are passed down through generations. Memories can fade, and details can become conflated, making it difficult to separate fact from fiction. The story of the sundae is a prime example of this phenomenon.
Beyond the Midwest: The Spread of a Sweet Sensation
Regardless of its exact birthplace, the ice cream sundae quickly gained popularity and spread beyond the Midwest, becoming a nationwide sensation. Several factors contributed to its rapid rise.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant advancements in ice cream production and distribution. New technologies like mechanical refrigeration and improved transportation networks made it easier to produce and transport ice cream to a wider audience.
Moreover, the rise of mass media, including newspapers and magazines, played a crucial role in promoting new products and trends. Advertisements and articles featuring the ice cream sundae helped to create awareness and demand for the treat.
The sundae’s versatility also contributed to its popularity. It could be easily customized with different flavors of ice cream, syrups, toppings, and garnishes, appealing to a wide range of tastes and preferences. It was also a relatively affordable and accessible treat, making it popular with people of all social classes.
The Sundae’s Enduring Appeal: Why We Still Love It
The ice cream sundae has remained a beloved dessert for over a century, a testament to its enduring appeal. Several factors contribute to its lasting popularity.
The sundae is a nostalgic treat that evokes fond memories of childhood and simpler times. For many people, enjoying a sundae is a way to connect with their past and relive happy moments. The association with celebration and indulgence also contributes to its appeal.
The sundae’s inherent customizability ensures it caters to a wide array of preferences. From a simple scoop of vanilla with chocolate syrup to elaborate creations with multiple flavors, sauces, nuts, and whipped cream, the sundae offers endless possibilities for personalization.
The sundae’s visual appeal also plays a significant role. The layers of ice cream, syrup, and toppings create a visually appealing and enticing presentation that can be particularly attractive to children and adults alike. The combination of textures – smooth ice cream, crunchy nuts, gooey syrup – further enhances the sensory experience.
The Modern Sundae: Innovation and Adaptation
While the classic sundae remains popular, the dessert has also undergone significant innovation and adaptation over the years. Chefs and ice cream parlors are constantly experimenting with new flavors, toppings, and presentations to create unique and exciting sundae experiences.
Gourmet sundaes featuring artisanal ice cream, homemade sauces, and locally sourced ingredients have become increasingly popular. Ethnic-inspired sundaes, incorporating flavors and ingredients from around the world, have also emerged.
Deconstructed sundaes, where the components are served separately and the diner assembles their own creation, offer a more interactive and personalized experience. Sundae bars, allowing customers to choose from a wide variety of ice cream flavors, toppings, and sauces, have become a popular option for parties and events.
The ice cream sundae’s ability to adapt and evolve ensures its continued relevance in the ever-changing culinary landscape. The ongoing creativity and innovation surrounding this classic dessert guarantee its place as a beloved treat for generations to come. Its simple foundation allows for endless variations.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Sweetness
The origin of the ice cream sundae may remain shrouded in some mystery, with multiple towns vying for the title of its birthplace. Regardless of where it was first created, the sundae’s journey from a local treat to a global phenomenon is a testament to its enduring appeal and versatility. It’s a celebration of sweetness, a symbol of indulgence, and a reminder of the simple joys in life. So, the next time you savor a delicious ice cream sundae, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and flavorful legacy of this iconic dessert. Each scoop is a tribute to the innovative spirit and culinary creativity that brought this sweet sensation into the world. The sundae is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience.
What are the main competing theories surrounding the invention of the ice cream sundae?
Two primary cities lay claim to being the birthplace of the ice cream sundae: Two Rivers, Wisconsin, and Ithaca, New York. The Two Rivers story centers around druggist Edward Berners, who supposedly created the treat in 1881 at the request of a customer, George Hallauer, who wanted something special on his ice cream. The Ithaca narrative revolves around Reverend John M. Scott and Platt & Colt Pharmacy employee Chester Platt, who allegedly devised the concoction in 1892 after Sunday church services, with Platt spontaneously adding cherry syrup to Scott’s ice cream.
The debate hinges on historical evidence and local oral traditions. Two Rivers emphasizes Berners’ alleged consistency in creating the sundae for other patrons after the initial request, while Ithaca points to documented advertisements and menus from the period featuring “Cherry Sunday.” The lack of definitive, irrefutable proof has fueled a long-standing rivalry between the two cities, with each passionately defending its claim to sundae glory.
Why is it called a “sundae” and not something else?
The most popular explanation for the name “sundae” stems from attempts to circumvent blue laws that restricted the sale of soda on Sundays in some communities. Druggists, who often ran soda fountains, sought a way to continue selling a similar treat without technically violating the ban on soda.
The “sundae” emerged as a clever workaround: ice cream with syrup but lacking the prohibited soda water. It’s widely believed the spelling was intentionally altered from “Sunday” to “sundae” to further distance the treat from religious connotations and potential legal challenges, although other theories suggest it was simply a phonetic simplification.
What role did blue laws play in the early development of the ice cream sundae?
Blue laws, which aimed to restrict certain activities on Sundays for religious or moral reasons, inadvertently contributed to the invention and popularization of the ice cream sundae. These laws often forbade the sale of soda water, a key ingredient in ice cream sodas, on Sundays, thus limiting the availability of a popular treat.
As a result, resourceful soda fountain operators sought alternative ways to satisfy their customers’ sweet cravings. The ice cream sundae, essentially an ice cream soda without the soda, emerged as a loophole, allowing businesses to continue serving a similar, albeit distinct, dessert without running afoul of the restrictive regulations. This clever workaround ultimately helped the sundae gain traction and establish itself as a beloved treat.
How did the ice cream sundae evolve from its initial creation?
The earliest versions of the ice cream sundae were relatively simple, typically consisting of a scoop or two of ice cream topped with flavored syrup. As the sundae gained popularity, variations began to emerge, incorporating different types of syrups, toppings, and even nuts.
Over time, the sundae evolved to include whipped cream, sprinkles, cherries, and a wide array of other decadent additions. Regional variations also arose, with some areas favoring certain toppings or syrup combinations. The sundae’s adaptability and openness to customization contributed to its enduring appeal and helped it transform from a simple dessert into a diverse and endlessly customizable treat.
What were some of the popular early sundae flavors and toppings?
Early sundae flavors predominantly featured vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, reflecting the limited range of ice cream options available at the time. Syrups were similarly simple, with cherry, chocolate, and caramel being among the most common choices.
Toppings were initially less elaborate than they are today. Chopped nuts, such as peanuts and walnuts, were a frequent addition, providing texture and flavor. Whipped cream and maraschino cherries, while not always present, were considered special indulgences that elevated the sundae experience. The emphasis was often on the quality of the ice cream and syrup, rather than an overwhelming array of toppings.
How did the ice cream sundae contribute to the growth of soda fountains and ice cream parlors?
The ice cream sundae played a significant role in the expansion and success of soda fountains and ice cream parlors during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By offering a unique and appealing alternative to ice cream sodas, the sundae attracted new customers and boosted sales, particularly on Sundays when soda sales were restricted.
The sundae’s versatility and customization options also allowed businesses to create signature offerings and differentiate themselves from competitors. Its popularity fueled the growth of the ice cream industry as a whole, making soda fountains and ice cream parlors popular social gathering spots and contributing to the cultural landscape of the era.
What is the enduring appeal of the ice cream sundae today?
The ice cream sundae’s lasting appeal lies in its simplicity, versatility, and ability to evoke nostalgia. It represents a classic American treat that transcends generations, offering a customizable and satisfying dessert experience. The fundamental combination of ice cream and toppings remains universally appealing.
Furthermore, the sundae’s inherent adaptability allows for endless variations, catering to individual preferences and dietary needs. From simple, traditional sundaes to elaborate, gourmet creations, the treat continues to evolve while retaining its core essence. Its comfort-food status and association with happy memories contribute to its enduring popularity.