History of Root Beer

Root beer's inception can be traced back to 1870 when Charles Hires began experimenting with a variety of roots, herbs, and berries. His concoction included birch bark, juniper, pipsissewa, spikenard, wintergreen, vanilla beans, sarsaparilla, ginger, hops, dog grass, and licorice. He began by selling his creation as powered mix, and then as a liquid extract for home brewing.

Upon introducing his drink to the public at the 1876 world's fair in Philadelphia, competition proliferated. By 1893, Hires started bottling his root beer, selling it not only for its ability to refresh, but also for its medicinal qualities.

In fact, a 1992 book on root beer collectibles by author Tom Morrison substantiated the existence of 831 brands through the years on the evidence of bottles, bottle caps, labels, and advertising. He estimated that as many as 2,000 brands may have existed at one time or another.

This abundance of root beers is largely attributed to the many farm households that brewed their own versions from available ingredients they had on hand. Even today, this variety is reflected in the potpourri of ingredients blended to create root beer, as well as the sheer diversity of flavors from one brand to the next.

Hank’s Root Beer maintains a strong Philadelphia-style identity through its rich, creamy flavor. The melding of ingredients creates a smooth, even taste indicative of Philadelphia's original root beer.