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James Vernor created Vernors ginger ale in Detroit in 1866—this makes it America's oldest ginger ale brand still produced today.
As pharmacist by trade, Vernor crafted a distinct recipe that transformed from a local drugstore offering into a Detroit icon, weaving itself into the city's food culture.
The true origins of Vernors ginger ale differs from its popular myth.
According to company legend, James Vernor created his formula before the Civil War and left it aging in an oak cask while he served, discovering a transformed drink upon his return.
The facts tell a different story.
James Vernor Jr. later confirmed that his father developed the formula after the war ended, not before.
James Vernor first sold his ginger ale through soda fountains in Detroit drug stores.
His own pharmacy, he first served his ginger ale by the glass, where customers first tasted what would become a Detroit staple.
Vernors opened a new 230,000 square foot plant in Detroit during the late 1950s.
The facility, which merged production and corporate operations, preserved key elements of the original building while drawing thousands of visitors.
This expansion solidified Vernors in the Detroit business scene.
Vernors ginger ale changed hands multiple times since its founding.
American Consumer Products bought the brand first, followed by United Brands and A&W Beverages.
Cadbury Schweppes, the global candy maker, acquired it next.
Today, Vernors is part of Keurig Dr Pepper's collection of American beverage brands.
Vernors' gnome mascot "Woody" first appeared on packaging and advertisements in the early 1900s.
The company retired the gnome in 1987, but later restored it to their products, recognizing its lasting connection with customers.
Today, Woody is still the official mascot of Vernors.
Vernors ginger ale has served dual purposes in Michigan culture:
People sip the drink hot to settle upset stomachs—a tradition passed down through generations.
In kitchens across the state, cooks harness its distinct ginger bite to enhance both sweet and savory dishes, transforming the carbonated drink into glazes for meat and adding snap to batter-fried foods.
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