A Brief History of Corn Dogs
As a caregiver, you know how important it is to provide nourishing, enjoyable meals for those in your care. And sometimes, that means serving up a classic comfort food like the corn dog. But have you ever wondered where the corn dog actually came from? You might be surprised to learn that the origin of this popular fairground food isn’t as straightforward as you might believe.
The concept of coating meat in batter and frying it isn’t a new one. Many cultures have their own versions of this, from the British with their fish and chips to the Japanese with their tempura. But the corn dog as we know it – a frankfurter encased in a cornmeal batter and deep-fried to golden perfection – is a uniquely American invention.
The American Journey of the Corn Dog
The corn dog’s journey to its current status as a favorite at state fairs across America is a story of ingenuity and entrepreneurship. While many people may think the corn dog is as American as apple pie, its roots are actually much more complex.
The first recorded instance of a sausage being coated in a cornmeal batter and deep-fried comes from the 1920s. A patent was filed by Stanley S. Jenkins in 1927 for a device to hold a fried food item (like a corn dog) on a stick. Although we can’t say for sure, it’s likely that this is the earliest version of what we now know as the corn dog.
Who Claims the Corn Dog?
There are several places that lay claim to being the birthplace of the corn dog, and it can be hard to separate fact from foodie fiction. Here are a few of the contenders:
- Springfield, Illinois: Cozy Dog Drive in, a popular eatery in Springfield, claims to have been serving corn dogs since June of 1946. They say their version was invented by Ed Waldmire Jr., who came up with the idea while serving in the Air Force during World War II.
- Muscle Shoals, Alabama: Another claim comes from the city of Muscle Shoals, where George Boyington supposedly created the corn dog in the early 1940s.
- Dallas, Texas: Finally, there’s the claim from Neil and Carl Fletcher of Dallas, Texas, who say they invented the corn dog and first served it at the Texas State Fair in 1942.
Each of these claims has its own merits, and it’s hard to determine who actually came up with the idea first. It’s possible that several people came up with the idea independently, each adding their own unique twist to the concept.
| Place | Claimant | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Springfield, Illinois | Cozy Dog Drive-In | 1946 |
| Muscle Shoals, Alabama | George Boyington | Early 1940s |
| Dallas, Texas | Neil and Carl Fletcher | 1942 |
Why Do We Love Corn Dogs?
Regardless of where the corn dog originated, there’s no denying its appeal. The sweet, crunchy exterior contrasts perfectly with the savory hot dog within. And when it’s served on a stick, it’s the perfect portable snack for a busy caregiver on the go.
FAQ
Q: Who invented the corn dog?
A: The exact origin of the corn dog is unclear, with multiple individuals and places staking claim to its invention.
Q: When was the corn dog invented?
A: The first recorded instance of a corn dog-like food is from a patent filed in 1927.
Q: Where can I find a good corn dog?
A: Corn dogs are a staple at fairs and carnivals. You can also find them at certain fast-food chains and in the frozen food aisle of many grocery stores.
Q: Why is it called a corn dog?
A: It’s called a corn dog because the batter used to coat the hot dog is made from cornmeal.
Q: What’s the best way to cook a corn dog?
A: Corn dogs are traditionally deep-fried until golden brown, but they can also be baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer.
