During a recent stroll along the Atlantic City Boardwalk, a destination that is close to my home, I decided to learn more about the origin of Atlantic City’s famed Salt Water Taffy.
Salt Water Taffy, like the world-famous Boardwalk, is synonymous with Atlantic City. Many people don’t know why they picture these colorfully wrapped confections when Atlantic City is mentioned, but the beach resort has much in common with these chewy treats.
The Sweet Beginnings: David Bradley’s Accidental Discovery
While stories abound about Salt Water Taffy’s origin, it seems that historians have finally come to agree that a man named David Bradley was the candy’s creator.
The year was 1880, and Bradley, a young candy merchant, arrived at work one morning to find that his candy stand, located just a few steps from the ocean, had been swamped by a storm.
Later that day, when a child came to ask for some taffy, Bradley replied sarcastically, “You mean Salt Water Taffy, don’t you?”
The child’s mother, who had overheard, thought this would be a great new name for his candy. When Bradley asked her who would want to buy taffy soaked with ocean water, she suggested he use fresh water and just add salt.
The new name for this sticky treat stuck and the rest was history.
The Art of Flavor Innovation: Expanding Beyond the Traditional
In the early days, Salt Water Taffy was appreciated for its simplicity – a sweet, chewy treat that offered a momentary escape into sugary bliss.
However, as time progressed, so did the creativity of taffy makers. The introduction of new, innovative flavors marked a significant turn in the history of this confection.
Throughout the years, this famous confection has been pulled, perfected, and modified in a variety of ways.
From classic favorites like vanilla and strawberry to more daring concoctions like root beer, buttered popcorn, and even spicy cinnamon, the array of flavors began to mirror the vibrant and ever-changing tapestry of Atlantic City itself.
Now, visitors to the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk can find taffy in wild, outrageous flavors, such as molasses mint, banana, chocolate chip cookies, and caramel corn, to name a few.
This evolution of flavors not only appealed to a broader audience but also turned the simple act of choosing taffy into an exciting experience, where each color and twist promised a unique taste.
James’ Original Salt Water Taffy: A Legacy of Sweetness
One of the most famous shops selling Salt Water Taffy is the family-owned James’ Original Salt Water Taffy, which has been manufacturing the candy in Atlantic City since the 1920s.
Another Atlantic City icon, the Boardwalk Peanut Shoppe, sells seashore-themed items such as a miniature lifeguard boat filled with a variety of sweets.
Alongside the Boardwalk Peanut Shoppe’s unique offerings, another emblematic figure contributes to Atlantic City’s charm.
In Atlantic City, New Jersey, Mr. Peanut stands as a nostalgic symbol, harking back to the city’s golden era. This iconic mascot, with his top hat and cane, was often seen on the Boardwalk, greeting tourists and locals alike.
Mr. Peanut, representing Planters, added a touch of whimsy and old-world charm to the vibrant Atlantic City scene, becoming an endearing part of its rich cultural tapestry.
A Lasting Confectionery Legacy: What Would Bradley Think?
No one knows what Bradley would think about this taffy phenomenon if he were here today. But he certainly would have a lot to chew on.
Exploring Beyond Atlantic City: The Charm of Cape May
If you’re enchanted by the Jersey Shore, just a 45-minute drive south of Atlantic City, you’ll find Cape May. This charming Victorian town, perched at the southernmost point of New Jersey, is renowned for its romantic bed and breakfast accommodations.
Discover more in my article on Rovology, Cape May Uncovered: The Enchanting Off-Season to learn more!
Offering a range of activities year-round, Cape May is a destination that truly shines.
