Vernors plant

Vernors Ginger Ale, America’s oldest surviving ginger ale brand, has deep roots in Detroit’s history, originating with a pharmacist’s experiment and evolving into a cultural icon. For 31 years, a dedicated plant produced this “deliciously different” beverage near the campus of Wayne State University, contributing significantly to the city’s industrial and social landscape.

History

James Vernor, born in Albany, New York in 1843, established the foundation for the Vernors legacy when he moved to Detroit with his family at the age of five. He operated a corner drug store on Clifford Street and Woodward Avenue, a common practice for pharmacists of the era who often compounded their own medicines. During the 1860s, ginger drinks were gaining popularity, prompting Vernor to experiment with various recipes in an attempt to create a uniquely refreshing beverage.

The commonly recounted story of Vernors’ creation centers around the Civil War. In 1862, Vernor enlisted in the 4th Michigan Cavalry, a unit that notably captured Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Before departing for service, he reportedly poured a ginger mixture into a charred oak barrel, intending to age it. Upon his return in 1866, four years later, he discovered that the aging process had unexpectedly transformed the drink, creating a flavor profile he hadn't anticipated. Vernor capitalized on this discovery, marketing his ginger ale as “flavor-mellowed in wood,” and establishing 1866 as the brand’s founding year. He became the first licensed pharmacist in Michigan, holding license number one, and was a founding member of the Michigan Board of Pharmacy in 1887.

Geography

The initial production of Vernors ginger ale took place within James Vernor’s pharmacy on Woodward Avenue in Detroit. As demand grew, he relocated and expanded operations, eventually establishing a dedicated plant in 1896, also on Woodward Avenue. This plant served as the primary production facility for 31 years, situated in close proximity to the developing campus of Wayne State University.

In 1918, the company acquired the Riverside Power Plant, followed by the construction of a six-story main building in 1919. Further expansion occurred in 1939 with the purchase of the ten-story Siegel Building adjacent to their existing facilities. These strategic acquisitions and building projects demonstrate the company’s commitment to remaining within Detroit and accommodating its increasing production needs. The location on Woodward Avenue placed Vernors at the heart of Detroit’s commercial and transportation network, facilitating distribution and solidifying its presence within the city.

Culture

Vernors Ginger Ale quickly became ingrained in Detroit’s cultural fabric, extending beyond a simple beverage to become a local tradition. It was commonly served over ice cream to create a “Boston Cooler,” a popular treat, and was frequently recommended as a remedy for upset stomachs and colds. This perception of Vernors as a medicinal beverage contributed to its widespread acceptance and enduring appeal within the community.

James Vernor himself was a prominent figure in Detroit civic life. He served 25 years on the Detroit Common Council, often engaging in debates with Mayor Hazen S. Pingree on issues such as public transportation. His involvement in local government and his contributions to the professionalization of pharmacy—as Michigan’s first licensed pharmacist—further cemented the Vernors name within Detroit’s history. The naming of Vernor Highway in Detroit also serves as a lasting tribute to his contributions to the city.

Notable Residents

James Vernor, the founder of Vernors Ginger Ale, was a significant resident of Detroit. Born in New York but raised in Detroit from the age of five, he dedicated his life and business to the city. His contributions extended beyond the creation of a successful beverage company; he actively participated in local government and professional organizations. He died in 1927 in Grosse Ile, Michigan, and is buried at Woodmere Cemetery in Detroit.

James Vernor II, his son, continued the family legacy, maintaining the company’s growth and prominence after his father’s death. While details regarding his personal life are less extensively documented in these sources, his leadership ensured the continued production and distribution of Vernors Ginger Ale, solidifying its place as a Detroit staple. The continuity of the Vernor family’s involvement demonstrates a long-term commitment to the city and its economic development.

Economy

The Vernors plant played a vital role in Detroit’s economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the city’s manufacturing sector. The company’s expansion, including the acquisition of the Riverside Power Plant and the construction of new buildings, represented significant investments in Detroit’s infrastructure.

The success of Vernors Ginger Ale also stimulated related industries, such as bottling equipment manufacturing, transportation, and distribution networks. The company’s growth mirrored the broader industrial development of Detroit in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While specific economic statistics related to the plant’s impact are not provided in these sources, the scale of its operations and its longevity suggest a substantial contribution to Detroit’s economic landscape. The plant’s reliance on gravity for its modern bottling process in the 1930s also indicates a commitment to efficiency and innovation, further enhancing its economic competitiveness.

Detroit history Soft drink Michigan history Wayne State University Woodward Avenue