A COOL CELEBRATION FOR NATIONAL ICE CREAM MONTH

By News 4U

As temperatures rise, nothing beats the refreshing joy of ice cream. A true indulgence that will immediately transport you back to your favorite childhood summer. July is National Ice Cream Month, a time to savor one of the world’s favorite frozen treats. But how did this delightful dessert come to be? Let’s take a delicious trip through time and explore the sweet history of ice cream.

A Taste of History

The history of ice cream is a tale of innovation and creativity, spanning centuries and cultures. The earliest forms of ice cream can be traced back to ancient China, where people would mix snow with milk and rice to create a creamy, frozen dessert. This early version of ice cream was enjoyed by emperors, but it was reserved only for the elite due to the difficulty of gathering snow and keeping it frozen.

The concept of freezing sweetened dairy to create a frozen dessert slowly spread across the world. In Italy, a similar treat began to emerge, with a mixture of sweetened cream being frozen into a cold, rich dessert. By the 17th century, Italian ice cream, or “gelato,” was popular among the aristocracy.

However, the ice cream we know today began to take shape in the 18th century. In France, ice cream was introduced to the general public in the form of sorbets and iced creams. It wasn’t until 1776, when ice cream made its debut in America, that the dessert truly became a mainstream delight. Records show that George Washington and Thomas

Jefferson were both big fans of ice cream. Jefferson’s recipe for vanilla ice cream was particularly famous, and he even imported ice cream-making equipment from Europe to perfect his creation at Monticello.

The Invention of the Ice Cream Machine

While ice cream was enjoyed by royalty and the wealthy for centuries, it remained a treat that required significant time and effort to make. That all changed in 1843 when Nancy Johnson, an American inventor, patented the hand-cranked ice cream maker. This machine allowed for quicker, more efficient ice cream production, making the dessert more accessible to the public. This was a gamechanger, as it allowed families to create ice cream in their own homes and set the stage for ice cream to become a part of everyday life. Though, hand churning ice cream has an undeniable nostalgia.

The invention of the ice cream cone also helped solidify the treat’s place in American culture. During the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, a vendor ran out of bowls for his ice cream. In a stroke of ingenuity, he teamed up with a nearby waffle stand, and together they served ice cream in a rolledup waffle cone. This clever combination quickly gained popularity and became the standard way to serve ice cream in the United States.

The Rise of Ice Cream Parlors

As the 20th century unfolded, ice cream parlors began to appear in cities across the country. These parlors were social hubs where people of all ages could gather to enjoy a variety of flavors and toppings. The golden age of the ice cream parlor came during the 1950s and 1960s when soda fountains and malt shops dotted the American landscape. These establishments were popular hangouts for teens and families alike, offering everything from sundaes and milkshakes to floats and cones.

Today, ice cream is a year-round indulgence. From high-end artisanal gelaterias to neighborhood parlors, the global ice cream industry is worth billions of dollars. Flavors have evolved beyond the classic vanilla and chocolate, with options like salted caramel, green tea, and even bacon. Ice cream has transformed from a rare, luxury item to an everyday pleasure enjoyed by people of all ages.

Home “Sweet” Home…

Our area may not have the beachside vibes of California or the cosmopolitan flair of New York City, but it’s home to some of the most beloved ice cream spots in the region. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these places are a mustvisit for anyone craving a delicious frozen treat. And, this isn’t all of them… get out and explore. Find a new one to try.

Rivertown - located in Newburgh, Indiana and nestled in the quaint downtown area, this charming ice cream stand has been serving up sweet treats for years. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cone, a sundae loaded with toppings, or a thick, creamy milkshake, Rivertown delivers.

Lic’s - a staple in Evansville for over 50 years, Lic’s is known for its homemade ice cream and friendly atmosphere. This retro- style ice cream parlor offers everything from classic cones to sundaes, and their signature “Turtle” sundae is a must-try. Their seasonal flavors and generous portions keep customers coming back for more.

GD Ritzy’s - If you’re looking for a familyfriendly atmosphere with great food and even better ice cream, GD Ritzy’s is the place to be. Known for its delicious burgers and hot dogs, GD Ritzy’s also serves up premium ice cream in a variety of classic and creative flavors. Their milkshakes are legendary, and their nostalgic 50’s vibe makes it a fun stop for everyone.

Zesto - Zesto has been serving up ice cream in Evansville since the early 1950’s, and it has become an institution in the city. With its retro architecture and delicious frozen treats, Zesto brings a sense of oldschool charm to the modern world. Known for their variety of soft-serve ice cream and unique sundaes, Zesto is a perfect place to treat yourself on a hot summer day.

HT’s - located in Henderson, KY, this is a new destination for those who crave a laidback ice cream experience. HT’s offers a variety of cones, sundaes, and shakes–and a traditional “grill” menu of hamburgers and other fried foods. It’s the perfect place to cool off with a sweet treat while enjoying the simple pleasures of a summer evening.

Honeymoon Coffee - Though Honeymoon Coffee is primarily known for its artisanal coffee, their ice cream selection is not to be missed. Partnering with local creamery vendors, Honeymoon Coffee offers a curated selection of seasonal flavors that pair beautifully with their expertly brewed coffee. For those seeking something unique, their ice cream floats are a perfect blend of caffeine and creaminess.

Milk and Sugar Shoppe - for the true ice cream aficionado, Milk and Sugar Shoppe offers a delightful experience that combines high-quality ingredients with innovative flavors. Their small-batch ice creams are a hit, with rotating flavors like honey lavender and chocolate bourbon pecan, there’s always something new to try.

National Ice Cream Month is a time to celebrate a treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. And right here in the Tri-State, we’re lucky to have a variety of local ice cream spots that offer everything from classic cones to innovative flavors. Grab a spoon, cone, or cup, and take a moment to savor the sweet history and present-day joy of ice cream this July!