The Popsicle, the original ice pop treat, was invented by accident in 1905 when an 11-year-old boy named Frank Epperson mixed soda powder and water and left it outdoors with the stirring stick still in the cup. The drink mixture froze with the wooden stirring stick in the middle, allowing the ice mixture to be popped out of the cup and held by the stick. Frank continued to make the ice pops for friends and family until 1923, when he patented the invention. The original name was “Eppsicles” in reference to his last name combined with icicles. His children, however, called them “Pop’s ‘Sicles” and that eventually ended up becoming the well-known Popsicle name.
More about the Popsicle:
- More than 2 billion Popsicles are sold worldwide each year.
- “The Twin Popsicle” which contains two sticks and can be easily split in half, was originally invented during the Great Depression so two children could share a treat for the price of one at $0.05 US Dollars (USD).
- There are over 26 flavors of Popsicles, with cherry being the most popular.