Previously, we began discussing the pretzel and its iconic mark on the city of Philadelphia. We discussed the first pretzel vendor in the 1820’s and the first commercial bakery in 1861 which provided aid for union soldiers. In this second part, we will continue discussing the pretzel and its history and influence in Philadelphia.
Beyond the soldiers, students would be served pretzels in the Philadelphia public school system in 1930. Everyone loved the pretzel, but bakers could only make so much in a day. This would change with the automation of the pretzel by the Reading Pretzel Machinery Company in 1933, where the distinct twisting shape would evolve to fit conveyor belts.
In 1970’s Philly, the practice of spreading mustard on soft pretzels came from hot dog vendors who already offered mustard, selling pretzels. Certain gourmet chefs in Philadelphia and New York City would begin making soft pretzel dinner rolls to be served at their establishments. In 1983, Congress designated April 26th as National Pretzel Day and not just Philadelphia but the entire nation celebrates the iconic snack!
We hope you found this second part about pretzels in Philadelphia interesting and gave you more insight into the history of this iconic snack! At pretzels.com we provide gourmet pretzels from sweet to salty and everything in between. With over 40 flavors baked in micro batches that we continuously are adding to, we are dedicated to providing the perfect pretzels for your own cravings or for others and events. Come view all our gourmet flavors and find the right one for you today!
