Here’s The Story Behind The Larger-Than-Life Banana Split Statue In Pennsylvania
By Beth Price-Williams|Published March 16, 2022
×
Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Just about everywhere you go in Pennsylvania, you’ll find at least a statue or two. Many are of historical figures and prominent Pennsylvanians – from William Penn to Mister Rogers. The state boasts quite a few unique statues, too. It’s probably safe to say, in fact, that you won’t find another statue quite like the banana split statue in Pennsylvania, a tribute to one of America’s favorite treats.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania, the small town of Latrobe is known for some pretty big things. It’s the birthplace of Fred Rogers, Arnold Palmer, and the banana split.
The town honors all three, but the most unique tribute is, arguably, the larger-than-life statue of the banana split that sits along Ligonier Street. If you’re in town, you can’t miss it.
Back in the early 1900s, pharmacies usually also featured a soda fountain, where customers could get cold drinks and ice cream treats. Residents of Latrobe picked up their prescriptions and ice cream goodies at Tassler’s Pharmacy.
It was here in 1904 that apprentice-pharmacist David Strickler, just 23 at the time, created the very first banana split. Inspired to try something new, he cut a banana straight down the middle and added one scoop each of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream.
He added a bit of syrup, whipped cream, and a cherry on top, and the rest, as they say, is history. Back then a banana split cost a mere dime. Those prices have risen considerably today, but the banana split is still the most popular treat in town.
Strickler’s Pharmacy, and the building in which it sat, is long gone. In its place, however, is a historical marker that honors the birthplace of the banana split.
The Pennsylvania Museum and Historical Commission added the market in 2013 and, shortly afterward, the larger-than-life banana split statue was unveiled.
Today, visitors to the small Western Pennsylvanian town pose for selfies in front of and snap photos of the whimsical statue. Chances are you’ll head to the nearest ice cream parlor for a banana split after your visit, too.
Have you been to the banana split statue in Pennsylvania? Share your experience in the comments! Did you know that you can also find a Little Statue of Liberty in Pennsylvania? Yep, and its origins were once a huge mystery.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
