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The Wonderful And Surprising History Of Ice Cream Trucks

While Summer has been the sign for many people to finally head out to the beach or perhaps move to a cooler location, one thing's for sure: we could all use a frozen treat. After all, Summer is the hottest season of the four seasons, and it is during this time when ice cream shoots up in great demand!

That said, there is no feeling like craving something cold and sweet and then hearing the chime and melodies of an ice cream truck. This simply signifies that a treat is coming your way. But have you ever sat down to think about how ice cream trucks came to be?

If that is what's on your mind, you're in the right place! Today, let's talk about the history of the ice cream truck:

The Wonderful And Surprising History Of Ice Cream Trucks

The first "ice cream truck" was not an actual truck. In fact, it was a horse-drawn wagon that visited people's homes and different special events with the purpose of selling ice cream.

In the 1880s, ice cream trucks were nothing more than horse-drawn wagons that were incredibly popular in the United States. These wagons were led by a driver who would make rounds to the homes of individuals in need of ice cream. As an interesting fact, the more popular flavors of the time included vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, which are still popular treats in today's world.

The ice cream trucks we know today came into existence only later. For example, the first electric truck was manufactured in 1899 and was sold in the early 1900s. It was the "Sign of the Rocket" and was created by Neilson, which started a new trend of ice cream trucks.

As the years went on, ice cream trucks changed and even began to use alternative methods and forms of transportation. For example, a man named Fred M. Liefeld invented a mobile ice cream factory that could be pulled by a horse and sold to the public.

In the 1910s and 1920s, ice cream trucks were still being produced, but they were considered a luxury, so only the wealthy could afford the new technology.

Following the introduction of the electric truck in the early 1900s, other companies were able to launch their own versions of the ice cream trucks that we know today. For instance, the Good Humor Ice Cream Company developed ice cream trucks that were instantly recognizable and incredibly popular. Such a truck produced the famous Good Humor ice cream bars that are still being enjoyed today. On the other hand, one of the most popular trucks to date was the Mister Softee truck, which has produced rich, creamy ice cream ever since 1953.

Ever since then, ice cream trucks have continued to innovate and change, eventually leading to the creation of the familiar truck we see today. Ice cream trucks have become a staple of American culture, with some families having a tradition of visiting an ice cream truck at least once per month during the summer. 

Conclusion

There you have it! The history of ice cream trucks is now in your hands. It's no wonder that ice cream trucks are so popular! Now, with this newfound knowledge, go ahead and visit an ice cream truck. Enjoy your ice cream knowing how far ice cream has come, from the days to horse-drawn wagons to the trucks you know and love today!

Besties Ice Cream offers ice cream trucks and catering services to meet any demands! If you want ice cream truck catering in Denver for your party and more, contact us today.