Museum Celebrating America's Favorite Dessert

Those who think there is a museum dedicated to everything are probably right, and this one backs them up! The Jell-O Gallery in LeRoy, New York is located at the birthplace of the gelatin dessert. Exhibits include the relationship between Jell-O and Bill Cosby, famous entertainers promoting Jell-O like Jack Benny, Lucille Ball, and Kate Smith. Admission to the museum ranges from $1.50 to 4.00, and takes visitors through the history of the dessert, from campaign slogans, to favorite recipes. Jell-O was not only developed as a delicious treat, it was a marketing marvel. It was one of the first foods to be f sold by well-groomed salesmen in horse drawn carriages. They took their Jell-O wears to fairs, churches, roadside stands, and parties. Following the carriages were cars decked out in the Jell-O logo, colorful, fun, and interesting. Across the nation billboards and posters would catch the eye of shoppers, all featuring the Jell-O girl and her six flavors of gelatin dessert. All of this and more is featured at the museum.

Jell-O was invented in 1897 by Pearle Wait and his wife May. It was by accident when attempting to combine laxative tea and cough syrup. What he created was fruit flavored and May named it Jell-O. He made attempts to sell the product but few were interested. He also lacked the money and experience to get a start up business going around his new invention. In 1899 he sold the formula for his dessert to a neighbor for $450. Frank Woodward was an orator and he had some previous experience being a salesman. His family had lived in LeRoy since 1860 and he had also invented a head lice killing product for hens.

Those visiting the Jell-O museum will enjoy a trip through the gift shop. Here you will find magnets, mugs, note cards, shirts, hats, and toys, all featuring that famous Jell-O logo. A trip to the museum would not be complete without bringing home a Jell-O souvenir for all of your family and friends. This is a great way to commemorate a memorable trip to the birthplace of Jell-O dessert.

In addition to the Jell-O Gallery, LeRoy is a quaint town, home to numerous shops, restaurants, and accommodations. Choose from dining establishments recommended by the Jell-O Gallery like the Casino Restaurant, the D&R Depot, Ficarella's Pizza, L.B Grand Restaurant, Pizza Land, Pontillo's Pizza, Red Osier Landmark, Woody's Deli, and Scooter's Restaurant. You can also eat at family favorites McDonald's or Subway. If you will be staying in town you can bunk at the Edson House bed and breakfast, or head just out of town to one of the campgrounds. Choices include Southwoods RV Resort, Lei Ti Too, Timberline Lake Park, Inc., or Genessee County Campground.

LeRoy is located in the western part of New York State, just one hour from Niagara Falls. This is a great side trip on your way to or from the falls. The kids will get a kick out of the Jell-O and mom and dad will love remembering all of their favorite Jell-O ad campaigns as a kid. Be sure to stop by if you are in the LeRoy area.