Augustus Jackson, Inventor of Ice Cream as We Know It

Who Invented Ice Cream? 

Ice cream, the popular dessert beloved by millions, was invented hundreds of years ago and was made with a base of cream and eggs. It was expensive, and difficult to transport, which made it a special delicacy. Augustus Jackson improved upon the original recipe by removing the eggs, which made it more affordable. The more affordable ice cream was also easier to transport, and Mr. Jackson created a way to produce and mass distribute the ice cream. The popularity soared.

Augustus Jackson was born in 1808 in the free state of Pennsylvania. He discovered a love of cooking early on in his life, and moved to the White House when he was twelve years old to work. He became an excellent chef and served three Presidents. He left the White House and went back home to Pennsylvania where he changed focus from entrees to desserts.

While making candies, he started tinkering around with the popular treat “ice cream.” His ice cream recipe was so well-received that he opened up his own ice cream parlor, and eventually expanded to becoming a supplier to other Black ice cream parlors by finding ways to streamline the ice cream making process and improving shipping standards. 

Mass production also made the ice cream less expensive, making it more accessible for more people. Yes, Augustus Jackson is the reason why we can go to the grocery store and purchase a tub of ice cream that was manufactured in a different state!

Mr. Jackson never did get a patent on his ice cream, but shared it with other Black ice cream parlor owners. After he passed at the young age of forty-three, his family was unable to keep up with the ever-growing demand for this refreshing dessert, and the surrounding producers took over.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Augustus Jackson invent ice cream? 

Ice cream has existed for centuries, but Augustus Jackson changed the recipe into what we know as ice cream today. He also developed the mass production system to get ice cream in every grocery store. 

How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day

I have always considered myself a hands-on learner, and once I found this book at the library I knew that the only place that made sense to read this book was our favorite local ice cream parlor, Clementine’s Creamery, on National Ice Cream Day!

We had such a blast eating ice cream (they even have an entire vegan selection of offerings; my favorite is the Tahini Chocolate Chip), and reading this book together. It was a core memory for sure. And using similar practices to what Augustus Jackson developed, Clementine’s ships nationwide in case you would like to try the Tahini Chocolate Chip goodness for yourself.

Be sure to pick up a copy of Ice Cream Man to read on National Ice Cream Day with your favorite frozen treat!

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Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better by Glenda Armand and Kim Freeman, illustrated by Keith Mallett