History of the Popsicle

There are several versions of the origination of the popsicle. It is generally agreed that Frank Epperson invented the popsicle. He certainly invented the first mass marketed popsicle. The story goes that in 1905, 11 year old Frank accidentally left a flavored soda and water mixture in a glass on his porch overnight. The glass still had the stirring stick in it. That night the temperature fell below freezing. Frank discovered the frozen concoction the next morning. Eureka, the popsicle was born.

Frank named his creation the “Epsicle”. It wasn’t until 1923 that Epperson pursued the commercial possibilities of his creation. At that time he applied for a patent for “Popsicle” a frozen confection. The name change is said to have been due to Frank’s children asking for “Pop’s sicle”. He later sold his rights to the brand name to the Joe Lowe Company in New York. Popsicle^® is currently a registered trademark of Good Humor-Breyers Ice Cream which is a subsidiary of Unilever Supply Chain, Inc.

For additional information see our History of the Popsicle links.