The sundae, that quintessential American dessert, a symphony of ice cream, sauce, and toppings, holds a special place in our hearts and stomachs. But where did this delectable treat originate? The answer, surprisingly, isn’t as straightforward as its simple ingredients. A fierce rivalry exists between two Midwestern towns, each claiming to be the birthplace of the sundae. Let’s delve into the history, the arguments, and the evidence to uncover the truth behind the sundae’s sweet beginnings.
The Claims to Fame: Ithaca vs. Two Rivers
Two cities stand at the center of the sundae controversy: Ithaca, New York, and Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Both towns have compelling narratives, historical documentation, and passionate residents who firmly believe in their claim to sundae supremacy. Understanding their respective stories is key to navigating this delightful debate.
Ithaca, New York: The “Cherry Sunday” Story
Ithaca’s claim revolves around Chester Platt and Reverend John M. Scott. According to local lore, in 1892, Reverend Scott visited Platt & Colt Pharmacy on a Sunday after church. He requested a dish of ice cream with cherry sauce, a topping usually reserved for soda fountain drinks. Platt, the pharmacist and soda fountain operator, obliged, creating a special concoction just for the Reverend. Scott enjoyed it so much that he requested it again on subsequent Sundays.
Eventually, Platt added the “Cherry Sunday” to his regular menu, charging a modest five cents. The name, initially “Cherry Sunday,” was later shortened to “Sundae to avoid offending religious sensibilities,” as some believed serving a treat named after the Sabbath was inappropriate. The Ithaca claim is heavily supported by local historians and documented evidence found in the Platt & Colt Pharmacy records.
Two Rivers, Wisconsin: The Ed Berners Tale
Two Rivers presents a different origin story, centered around Ed Berners, the owner of a soda fountain. In 1881, a customer named George Hallauer asked Berners to top his ice cream with the chocolate syrup typically used for ice cream sodas. Berners initially hesitated, but eventually relented. The creation was a hit, and Hallauer requested it regularly.
Berners then decided to offer this new treat to other customers, but only on Sundays. Like Ithaca, the name “Sunday” was eventually changed to “Sundae” to avoid any religious objections. Two Rivers’ claim is supported by historical accounts, local tradition, and the lasting legacy of Ed Berners’ soda fountain.
Examining the Evidence: Dates, Documents, and Details
Comparing the evidence presented by both cities is crucial for a thorough investigation. While both narratives are compelling, the timeline and documentation offer valuable insights.
Dating the Deliciousness: Timelines and Conflicts
The most significant discrepancy lies in the dates. Two Rivers claims the sundae was created in 1881, while Ithaca points to 1892. This eleven-year difference is a major point of contention. Two Rivers supporters argue that their earlier date gives them a significant advantage, suggesting they were the true originators.
However, Ithaca proponents counter that the 1881 date lacks concrete documentation. They emphasize the importance of the Platt & Colt Pharmacy records, which provide tangible evidence of the “Cherry Sunday” being served in 1892. The lack of definitive documentation for the 1881 claim makes it challenging to fully validate Two Rivers’ assertion.
The Power of Print: Newspapers and Advertisements
Newspaper articles and advertisements from the period offer further clues. Finding contemporary accounts of either city serving a sundae would significantly strengthen their claim. While both cities have unearthed some historical references, the evidence remains somewhat limited.
Ithaca has presented advertisements for Platt & Colt Pharmacy that mention ice cream and soda fountain treats, though not specifically the “Cherry Sunday” or “Sundae.” Two Rivers has relied more on oral history and local tradition to support their claim. The absence of explicit, early advertisements mentioning the sundae in either city makes it difficult to definitively prove either claim through print media alone.
Local Legends and Oral Histories: The Stories We Tell
Local legends and oral histories play a significant role in both narratives. These stories, passed down through generations, contribute to the cultural identity of each city and reinforce their belief in their sundae supremacy. While oral histories can be valuable, they are also susceptible to inaccuracies and embellishments over time.
In Ithaca, the story of Reverend Scott and Chester Platt is deeply ingrained in the city’s history. Similarly, in Two Rivers, the tale of George Hallauer and Ed Berners is a cherished part of their local heritage. While these stories add color and character to the sundae debate, they should be considered alongside more concrete evidence.
The Sundae’s Spread: Popularity and Variations
Regardless of its precise origin, the sundae quickly gained popularity across the United States. Soda fountains in drugstores and ice cream parlors became ubiquitous, and the sundae became a staple offering.
From Simple Syrups to Elaborate Creations
The early sundaes were relatively simple, typically consisting of ice cream topped with a flavored syrup. However, as the sundae’s popularity grew, so did the variety of toppings and flavors. Whipped cream, nuts, sprinkles, fruits, and various sauces were added to create elaborate and decadent desserts.
Regional variations also emerged. Different cities and states developed their own unique sundae combinations, reflecting local tastes and ingredients. This proliferation of sundae styles contributed to the dessert’s enduring appeal.
The Enduring Appeal: Why We Love the Sundae
The sundae’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, versatility, and ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness. It’s a treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and it can be customized to suit individual preferences.
Whether it’s a classic hot fudge sundae or a more adventurous creation with exotic fruits and sauces, the sundae remains a beloved dessert that continues to bring joy to millions. Its simple construction also makes it extremely accessible, allowing almost anyone to create and enjoy this iconic dessert.
The Verdict: A Sweet Stalemate?
So, who truly invented the sundae? After examining the evidence, the answer remains elusive. Both Ithaca and Two Rivers have compelling claims, but neither can definitively prove their case beyond all doubt.
The earlier date claimed by Two Rivers is intriguing, but the lack of robust documentation makes it difficult to fully accept. Ithaca’s claim, supported by the Platt & Colt Pharmacy records, offers more tangible evidence, but the 1892 date is later than Two Rivers’ assertion.
Ultimately, the sundae debate may remain unresolved. Perhaps the best way to approach it is to appreciate the contributions of both cities and acknowledge that the sundae’s origin story is a complex and fascinating tale. Both cities have contributed to the history and cultural significance of the dessert.
The Legacy Lives On: Celebrating the Sundae
Regardless of where it was invented, the sundae has become an integral part of American culinary culture. It’s a dessert that evokes fond memories and brings people together. Both Ithaca and Two Rivers continue to celebrate the sundae, embracing their role in its history.
Ithaca’s Sundae Celebration
Ithaca hosts annual events that celebrate its claim to sundae fame. These events often include sundae-making contests, historical displays, and opportunities to sample different sundae variations. The city embraces its connection to the dessert and uses it as a way to promote local businesses and tourism.
Two Rivers’ Ice Cream Heritage
Two Rivers also celebrates its ice cream heritage with local festivals and events. The city takes pride in its historical connection to the sundae and uses it to promote tourism and local businesses. Their annual celebrations often include historical reenactments and sundae-themed activities.
The sundae, a simple yet extraordinary combination of ice cream and toppings, has a disputed origin story. While we may never know the definitive answer, the sweet debate between Ithaca and Two Rivers serves as a reminder of the dessert’s enduring appeal and its significant place in American culinary history. It’s a delicious mystery that continues to captivate and delight.
What cities are most often associated with the sundae’s origin, and what are their respective claims?
Two cities predominantly vie for the title of sundae inventor: Two Rivers, Wisconsin, and Evanston, Illinois. Two Rivers asserts that in 1881, druggist Edward Berners accidentally created the first sundae when he added chocolate syrup to a bowl of ice cream at the request of a customer, George Hallauer. The story goes that Hallauer then suggested Berners serve it regularly, initially only on Sundays, thus the name “Sundae.”
Evanston, on the other hand, points to the late 19th century, when the city banned the sale of soda on Sundays due to religious objections. Soda fountains allegedly devised the “sundae” as an alternative way to serve ice cream with syrup, avoiding the soda violation. While there’s less concrete evidence for Evanston’s claim, it highlights the potential influence of societal restrictions on culinary innovation.
What is the primary evidence supporting Two Rivers, Wisconsin’s claim to the sundae’s creation?
The strongest evidence supporting Two Rivers’ claim is the documented account of George Hallauer’s request to Edward Berners, and the subsequent adoption of the “sundae” at Berners’ ice cream parlor. Further strengthening this is a newspaper article from 1929 mentioning Berners and his creation, along with testimonies from local residents at the time, solidifying the narrative within the community.
Additionally, Two Rivers has actively embraced its role in sundae history. They host an annual “Sundae Fest” and display historical artifacts related to Edward Berners and the early days of his ice cream parlor, creating a tangible and ongoing connection to the dessert’s purported origin.
What arguments are presented against Two Rivers’ version of the sundae’s origin story?
While Two Rivers has a compelling story, some historians argue that the lack of verifiable documentation from 1881 casts doubt on the claim. The primary evidence relies on later accounts and recollections, leaving room for potential embellishment or inaccuracies over time. Skeptics also suggest the sundae may have evolved organically in multiple locations independently.
Another argument against Two Rivers involves the broader historical context of ice cream and syrup combinations. The practice of adding toppings to ice cream was already prevalent in the late 19th century, leading some to believe that the sundae was a natural progression rather than a singular, accidental invention by Edward Berners.
How did the spelling of “Sundae” evolve, and why is it different from “Sunday”?
The change in spelling from “Sunday” to “Sundae” is attributed to several possible factors. One common explanation is that the spelling was altered to avoid offending religious sensibilities about profaning the Sabbath. By changing the “y” to an “ae,” the dessert became distinct from the holy day.
Another potential reason for the spelling difference is simply to create a unique brand name for the dessert. The altered spelling allowed ice cream parlors to differentiate their offerings and establish a distinct identity for this specific ice cream treat, further separating it from the common practice of eating ice cream on Sundays.
Are there other plausible origins for the sundae besides Two Rivers and Evanston?
Yes, several other cities have been proposed as potential origin points for the sundae, although with less documented evidence than Two Rivers and Evanston. These include Ithaca, New York; Plainfield, Illinois; and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Each of these locations has its own local lore and anecdotes surrounding the creation of a similar dessert around the same time period.
The lack of a definitive, irrefutable “birth certificate” for the sundae suggests that its evolution may have been a more widespread phenomenon, with variations of ice cream and syrup combinations appearing in multiple locations during the late 19th century. This makes pinpointing a single inventor a challenging, if not impossible, task.
What role did prohibition or “Blue Laws” play in the popularization of the sundae?
“Blue Laws,” which restricted certain activities on Sundays, including the sale of soda, are often credited with contributing to the sundae’s popularity. In areas where soda fountains were banned from serving soda on Sundays, the sundae provided a loophole, allowing customers to still enjoy ice cream with flavored syrups without violating the law. This circumvented the restrictions and satisfied customer demand.
While it’s difficult to quantify the exact impact of Blue Laws, their existence likely fueled the demand for soda alternatives on Sundays. The sundae, as a non-soda-based treat, provided a convenient and acceptable solution, contributing to its spread and adoption across different regions.
What enduring legacy has the “Great Sundae Debate” left on popular culture and culinary history?
The Great Sundae Debate highlights the complexities of culinary history and the challenges of tracing the precise origins of popular foods. It serves as a reminder that many iconic dishes are the result of gradual evolution and regional variations rather than a single, clearly defined invention. The debate encourages a deeper appreciation for the cultural influences that shape our cuisine.
Furthermore, the ongoing debate fosters a sense of local pride and tourism in the cities claiming to be the sundae’s birthplace. It transforms a simple dessert into a symbol of community identity and encourages people to engage with the history and folklore surrounding their favorite foods, keeping the sweet mystery alive for future generations.