Joseph Fralinger

FralingerACTenn

Joseph Fralinger (1848–1927) was an American businessman and confectioner, best known for popularizing salt water taffy in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He is often credited with transforming the local treat into a nationwide phenomenon.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Joseph Fralinger was born in 1848 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up in a working-class family and began working at a young age to support his family. His early jobs included working as a glassblower and a fish merchant.

Career[edit | edit source]

Fralinger moved to Atlantic City in the late 19th century, where he initially worked as a fish merchant. He later opened a concession stand on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, where he sold various goods, including lemonade and fruit.

Salt Water Taffy[edit | edit source]

Fralinger's most significant contribution to the confectionery world was his development and marketing of salt water taffy. Although he did not invent the candy, he was instrumental in its popularization. Fralinger began selling salt water taffy in 1885, packaging it in souvenir boxes that tourists could take home. This marketing strategy helped to spread the popularity of the candy beyond Atlantic City.

Fralinger's salt water taffy became so popular that he eventually opened multiple stores along the boardwalk. His brand became synonymous with the treat, and it remains a well-known name in the confectionery industry to this day.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Joseph Fralinger passed away in 1927, but his legacy lives on through the continued popularity of salt water taffy. The Fralinger brand is still operational, and his original recipes are still used to produce the candy.