On this day in history, May 16, 1876, the world was introduced to the beloved beverage, Hires Root Beer. Charles E. Hires, a pharmacist from Philadelphia, debuted the drink at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.
Hires originally began experimenting with various roots, barks, and herbs to create a beverage that he believed would be an alternative to alcohol. After much experimentation, he eventually created a recipe for a delicious root beer.
Hires originally called his creation "root tea," but upon introducing it at the Centennial Exposition, a printing error on his advertising materials labeled it as "root beer." The name stuck and became a popular soft drink throughout the country.
Hires was not only a successful inventor but also a successful marketer. He utilized colorful advertising posters, signs, and giveaways to promote his root beer, making it a household name. Today, Hires Root Beer is still enjoyed by many and remains a testament to the ingenuity of its creator.
