What is the History of Ice Cream?

Someone holding up an ice cream cone in front of an ancient sculpture.

5th century B.C.

Once upon a time

Ancient Greeks enjoy a dessert similar to ice cream. And this is where our story begins!

1300s

Ice cream, ho!

Marco Polo brings an early form of ice cream to Europe. We imagine the popular pool game started with ice cream-craving fans searching in the night for Marco! (Polo!)

Black and white image of a historical figure, with a Drumstick classic cone.

Someone holding up ice cream sandwiches in front of an old painting.

1700s

Ooo, fancy!

Ice Cream is introduced to America as a delicacy enjoyed by high society due to its expensive ingredients and lack of available refrigerators.

1776

Open for business!

America's first ice cream parlor opens its doors in New York. And you thought lines were bad today...

The Statue of Liberty with text that reads "ice cream for all!"

The first ever ice cream plant with text that reads "more ice cream."

1840s

A labor of love!

Now that's what we call mass production. The ice cream churn is invented, and now we can make ice cream by the bucket!

1851

First ice cream plant

Doors open to one of the sweetest buildings ever - the very first ice cream plant.

Closeup of a woman holding up a vintage ice cream sundae topped with whipped cream and a cherry.

1880s

What a scoop

Get your fixin's and grab your bowls! The ice cream sundae is born.

1904

Hello Drumstick!

Rumor has it, the waffle cone makes its debut at the world's fair in St. Louis, Mo. after an ice cream vendor ran out of bowls. Good thing the waffle maker stepped in to help!