What would we do without ice cream? Even though it was served previously, the popularity of ice cream increased in America in the 1840s. Perhaps this was because Nancy Johnson invented the crank-type ice cream freezer about that time.
According to the Gazette advertisement below, York provided a ready market in May 1845 for the cold, sweet concoction. Thomas Gray would even cater your ice cream party.
"
The subscriber respectfully informs his former customers and the public generally that he has again fitted up and will open on Monday evening next, (May 5th) an apartment in his dwelling in East Market street, opposite the English Presbyterian Church in this Borough, where he will serve up every day and evening during the season (Sundays excepted) to those who may patronize him, ICE CREAM of all flavors, and prepared with the greatest care.
He will supply private parties and families with Ice Cream; and when desired will furnish a person to serve it up.
He hopes by attention and his efforts to please to receive a renewal of, and addition to his former encouragement. THOMAS GRAY."
Welsh's bookstore would have been in the same area of Market and Queen streets a little later. Books and ice cream--what else do we need? Click here for Welsh's bookstore post.
Leave a comment