The Pioneering History of Ice Cream Parlors in America
The story of America's love affair with ice cream begins at the very founding of the nation. In 1776, the first ice cream parlor opened its doors in New York City, marking the beginning of a societal trend that would continue to grow in popularity over the centuries. However, the evidence supporting this claim is somewhat contested, with historians and researchers providing differing accounts. This article will delve into the intriguing narrative of the first ice cream parlor and provide insights into the historical context and key figures.
Philip Lenzi: The First Known Ice Cream Merchant in America
Many scholars credit Philip Lenzi, a confectioner from London, as the first ice cream merchant in America, with his shop opening in 1776 in New York City. According to the 1777 advertisement in the New-York Gazette and Weekly Mercury, Lenzi arrived in the city in 1773 and established his business the following year. His advertisement announced: ‘HIS Excellency etc etc has putting [sic] himself upon to make and sell ALL sorts of sweets, as also luscious fine Iced Cream, the newest manufacture of , a merchant from London.’
A Brief Timeline of Ice Cream in America
Although Philip Lenzi might be the first recognizable ice cream merchant, there is evidence of other early ice cream businesses. In 1770, Giovanni Bosio opened what is believed to be the first ice cream shop in America. Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, a Sicilian aristocrat, opened a café in Paris in 1686, which is often cited as the first ice cream shop in Europe. However, the docking of Italian immigrants in America brought these ice cream traditions to a new continent.
The significance of these early ice cream businesses extends beyond mere commercial ventures. Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli's café became the base for one of the first coffee shops in Paris, introducing Americans to a new culture of café culture. While Giovanni Bosio's shop set the stage for ice cream consumption in America, it was Philip Lenzi's advertisements and the advent of commercial ice cream sales that caught the public's attention.
One of the most notable figures associated with ice cream in America is George Washington. As the first President of the United States, Washington was a passionate ice cream lover, and his historical records show that he spent approximately $200 on ice cream in 1790, which equates to roughly $5,000 in today’s currency. This expenditure reflects the growing taste for luxury and indulgence among the nation's elite.
Why 1776?
Many might wonder why 1776 is considered the year the first ice cream parlor opened. Certainly, this year is embossed in the annals of American history, as it marked the signing of the Declaration of Independence. However, the significance in the context of ice cream history is due to the establishment by Philip Lenzi. The convergence of these two important events certainly symbolizes the evolving nature of American society—from its colonial roots to its burgeoning economic and cultural richness.
In conclusion, the first ice cream parlor in America—opened by Philip Lenzi in 1776—was a landmark event in the culinary history of the nation. This year, which marks both the founding of America and the beginning of its ice cream culture, is a testament to the enduring allure of frozen treats.