The Surprising History and Evolution of the Sunday (Sundae)
The term ldquo;sundaerdquo; is a culinary mystery that has intrigued food historians for decades. Its origins are shrouded in local legends, historical records, and religious laws, creating a rich tapestry of stories that add to its allure. This article delves into the surprising history and evolution of the Sunday, uncovering the most plausible theories behind its naming and the cultural context in which it emerged.
Origins and Legends
The origin of the name ldquo;sundaerdquo; is steeped in local legends and a complex mix of urban myths. One of the most prominent stories suggests that the name is derived from ldquo;Sunday.rdquo; In the late 19th century, some towns, including Ithaca, New York, and Two Rivers, Wisconsin, claimed to have invented this dessert. However, the most persuasive and supported by contemporaneous evidence is the story of drugstore owner Chester Platt in Ithaca, New York.
From Ithaca to Beyond
In 1892, Chester Platt, owner of the drugstore, created a special dish for Reverend John Scott. It involved innocent vanilla ice cream topped with a candied cherry and cherry syrup, which was advertised in the Ithaca Daily Journal. This dish, initially called a ldquo;sunday,rdquo; was a creative response to the strict religious laws that prohibited the sale of soda on Sundays. By omitting the soda, Platt could serve ice cream with flavorings, making it a ldquo;sundaerdquo; without the controversial drink.
Social Justice and Religious Influence
The origin story of the sundae in Ithaca is rooted in social justice and religious values. Reverend Scott, a well-liked minister known for his advocacy for social justice, requested a special treat on a Sunday. Chester Platt’s innovative creation was a nod to the church’s values and a response to the harsh religious laws of the time.
However, the dish faced opposition from some churchgoing individuals who found it undignified to apply the name of the Sabbath to a dessert. Despite this, the name ldquo;sundaerdquo; eventually prevailed, likely due to its widespread popularity and the cultural context of the time.
Local Variations and Popularity
While the exact origins of the sundae remain a subject of debate, its popularity is well-documented. In the early 20th century, the typical way of consuming ice cream was with a carbonated flavored water, known as an ldquo;ice cream soda.rdquo; The legend of the Illinois law banning the sale of soda on Sundays is a significant factor in the evolution of the sundae. By removing the soda, ice cream vendors could still serve a delicious dessert, making it a more flexible and appealing option.
Other towns, such as Plainfield, claim to have invented the sundae, adding to the complexity of its origin story. Regardless of where it originated, the sundae has become a beloved dessert, often consisting of ice cream topped with syrup, nuts, whipped cream, and a cherry.
Conclusion
The story of the sundae is a fascinating blend of local legends, social justice, and religious influence. While the exact origins remain a mystery, the most plausible and supported story is the one involving Chester Platt in Ithaca, New York. The sundae has evolved into a popular and cherished dessert, celebrated for its delicious taste and cultural significance.