#25: The Popsicle
The Popsicle, a beloved frozen treat, started as a delightful accidental discovery by an eleven-year-old from Oakland, California, named Frank Epperson in 1905. Mixing powdered flavoring with water and unintentionally leaving it outside overnight with a stirring stick still in it, he woke to find the mixture frozen solid. Upon tasting, he realized he stumbled upon something delicious.
In 1922, Frank Epperson unveiled his creation at a fireman’s ball in Alameda, California, marking the Popsicle’s grand debut. Its reception was overwhelmingly positive, leading Epperson to market it across Alameda. Originally dubbed the ‘Epsicle,’ a name change was prompted by his children’s suggestion, giving birth to the iconic ‘Popsicle’ name we know and love today.