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The Soda Jerk wasn't a Jerk!

Updated on June 30, 2013

Make an Ice Cream Soda in Honor of the Soda Jerk on National Ice Cream Soda Day on June 30

June 30 is National Ice Cream Soda Day so what better way to celebrate than to honor the Soda Jerk!

The Soda Jerk was a national fixture for almost 40 years in the United States and other countries. They were in every drugstore and in many department stores and some diners.

Some had a whole career as a soda jerk but most relinquished their title to young upwardly mobile teens (YUMTS?) who sometimes heavily competed for the position.

Their motivation was being the star of the show, the center of attention for many pretty girls and all the ice cream you could eat.

I have included many photos of original soda jerks and also a recipe for a basic ice cream soda or float.

Hopefully, this information will keep you cool for the Summer ahead!

Wikimedia Commons

The Soda Jerk
The Soda Jerk
Soda Jerk Caricature
Soda Jerk Caricature

Does a Soda Jerk eat Jerky?

The Soda Jerk is not a jerk, nor does he eat Jerky; at least not at the soda fountain.

A Soda Jerk was named by what he did, not who he was. This term was given to the employees, usually male teenagers, that worked behind the soda fountains from the 1910's to around the early 1950's.

Being a Soda Jerk was not something derogatory, by any means. It was one of the most coveted jobs in that era. Most store workers started as "sweepers" or "stockers" or "even "cashiers." By being a good employee, they could eventually become the drugstore Soda Jerk.

The Soda Jerk was not only a great job, they were very talented. They could amuse customers by tossing scoops of ice cream in various ways and they also had access to the pretty female patrons. Much like a bartender today, you could talk to the Soda Jerk and tell them your troubles. However, the conversation was much lighter because the Soda Jerk was younger in age.

How did they get their name? The soda fountain had a big lever that they had to pull to put soda into the glass, usually followed by syrup, the ice cream and any toppings. The handle of the fountain was very secure and tight, requiring the Soda Jerk to pull sharply or "jerk" the handle. Putting it back in its original position also required some force. Thus, the Soda Jerk was born.

So, the next time someone calls you a "jerk," just remember, all jerks in history were not bad and everything will probably work out for you!

Flickr Commons

Soda Jerk Flipping Ice Cream
Soda Jerk Flipping Ice Cream

What you will need to be a Soda Jerk, or to just Create your own Ice Cream Soda - Sorry, I can't ship the ice cream or whipped cream and you can use any soda th

Anchor Hocking Glass 20-oz Beer Mug, Clear, Set of 6
Anchor Hocking Glass 20-oz Beer Mug, Clear, Set of 6
If you make ice cream sodas or floats, you need to have a mug to put them in. Nothing beats glass and the old beer wagon style mugs are the best. Everything just seems to taste better in these mugs, don't you think?
 
WMF Manaos / Bistro Ice Cream Spoon, Set of 4
WMF Manaos / Bistro Ice Cream Spoon, Set of 4
I love these spoons. They are not only good for ice cream floats, but also iced tea and other "tall" drinks.
 
Maraschino Cherries with Stems, 74 Ounce Jar
Maraschino Cherries with Stems, 74 Ounce Jar
This is a topping that you can't live without when creating great sodas, floats and shakes. i always eat my cherry before anything else. What do you do?
 
Hershy's Chocolate Syrup, 2 / 48 oz. bottles
Hershy's Chocolate Syrup, 2 / 48 oz. bottles
There are other syrups but noting is quite like the original from Hershey, Pennsylvania. I always wanted to visit there but never have. I wonder if they allow sampling. If so, I would bring my own spoon.
 
Kikkerland, Red and White Biodegradable Paper Straws, Striped, Box of 144
Kikkerland, Red and White Biodegradable Paper Straws, Striped, Box of 144
Paper straws are a must if you are going to create an authentic "vintage" ice cream float. We used these when I was young; they don't have the unhealthy plastic residue in them.
 
Ice Cream Soda
Ice Cream Soda
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 3 min
Ready in: 5 min
Yields: 1

Ingredients

  • Ice Cream
  • Soda water or cabonated Soft Drinks
  • Whipped Cream (If desired)
  • Maraschino Cherries (if desired)

Instructions

  1. Get out your mug spoon and straw.
  2. I always fill up my mug 1/2 way with soda water or soft drink first. If you put in the ice cream first, it will overflow.
  3. Put in a scoop or 2 of ice cream
  4. Cover with whipped cream and add a cherry, as desired.
Cast your vote for Simple Recipe for an Ice Cream Soda or Float

Don't forget the Soda Jerk Hat

Beistle 4 Piece Retro Diner Paper Soda Jerk Hats 50’s Theme Rock and Roll Party Supplies 1950’s Costume Accessory, One Size, White/Red
Beistle 4 Piece Retro Diner Paper Soda Jerk Hats 50’s Theme Rock and Roll Party Supplies 1950’s Costume Accessory, One Size, White/Red
How in the world can you be a Soda Jerk and not wear the little hat. Fun for costume parties or just to wear around the house. If you wear this outside you will definitely impress your neighbors. You can wear your own white shirt and black bow tie. I know everyone has those handy.
 

Soda Jerks were no longer popular after the early 1950's. Fast food walk-up restaurants and drive-in eateries became the "in" thing.

The Drugstore - Home of the Ice Cream Soda for many Years

The Drugstore
The Drugstore
Row of Stools at the Drugstore
Row of Stools at the Drugstore

In the soda fountain era, booth seating also rose in popularity as an alternative to stools.

Soda Mixer
Soda Mixer

It was during the soda fountain era that the jukebox also rose in popularity. There were free standing machines that were eventually replaced with booth jukeboxes.

Soda Fountain
Soda Fountain

The Soda Jerk was usually very skilled in their actions and would always perform for their patrons by mixing and tossing ice cream. They were smooth-talkers and girls would swoon over them.

Seats near the actual soda fountain were the most popular seating location. This was the center of activity and these seats were almost always occupied.

Soda Jerks
Soda Jerks

Do you make Ice Cream Sodas or Floats during the Summer?

Ice cream on shoe
Ice cream on shoe

When do you make Ice Cream Sodas or Floats?

See results
Smiling Soda Jerk
Smiling Soda Jerk
working

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