Independence Day and Ice Cream: A Delicious Frozen Treat & Freedom

Did you know that America's birthday and America’s ice cream birthday happened around the same time? It's true! As Independence Day quickly approaches, here's a fun historical connection to share with your young learners that combines two American favorites: freedom and frozen treats!

The Birth of a Nation: The United States of America

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, marking the official beginning of America's journey as an independent nation. This document, written by Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston, declared that the thirteen American colonies would no longer be under British rule, but they would come together to form the start of our great nation.[1] This revolutionary act required tremendous courage from our Founding Fathers, who risked everything for the principles of liberty and justice for all.

America's First Ice Cream Parlor & a Presidential Connection

In a delightful historical coincidence, 1776 wasn't just significant for American independence—it also marked a sweet milestone in our culinary history.[2] The first ice cream parlor in America opened its doors in New York City that same year! Important figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were known to enjoy the frozen sweet treat from time to time, as well as many governors and first ladies.[3] As America’s founding fathers were celebrating our newfound independence, they could also enjoy a frozen treat after a hard day's work!

Activities to Try With Your Children

Declaration of Deliciousness: Have your children write their own "Declaration of Ice Cream Independence" by using the original Declaration of Independence as a framework. For example: “You have a right to your favorite flavors and toppings, however regular or unique they are!” Click here to view the Declaration of Independence transcription.

Historical Ice Cream Making: Try making ice cream the old-fashioned way using ice, salt, and hand-cranking in a coffee can or plastic bag. This demonstrates colonial-era inventions and the science behind making frozen treats, and it gives kids a taste of history! Compare the 18th-century ice cream recipe below with the modern-day version, and ask your kids how modern inventions have improved the efficiency of making ice cream.

Freedom Flavors: Create red, white, and blue ice cream sundaes or vanilla ice cream with red and blue sprinkles while discussing what freedom in the USA means to your family.

Timeline Activity: Create a simple timeline showing both American historical events and the evolution of ice cream in America, thereby helping children visualize how these histories developed together.

Why This Matters

These historical connections offer a perfect opportunity to make learning about American history more engaging for young minds. By linking the important topic of independence with something children naturally love—ice cream—you create memorable learning experiences that stick with them long after the holiday celebrations end, whether it’s knowledge that sticks in their brains, or ice cream that gives them sticky fingers! So this Fourth of July, as you enjoy fireworks and perhaps a scoop or two of your favorite ice cream, take a moment to share this sweet historical coincidence with your children. It's a delicious way to bring American history to life!

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Sources:

[1]  “The Declaration of Independence: A History.” National Archives (website), May 14, 2018. https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-history#page-header

[2] Totey, Jeffrey. “From Cones to Sundaes: A Brief History of American Ice Cream.” Writer Of Pop Culture, July 22, 2024. https://writerofpop.com/2024/07/22/from-cones-to-sundaes-a-brief-history-of-american-ice-cream-treats/ 

[3] Small, Sheridan. “A Brief History of Ice Cream.” Dumbarton House, (accessed) May 28, 2025. https://dumbartonhouse.org/a-brief-history-of-ice-cream/