On May 8, 1886, Dr John S Pemberton concocted a new beverage which he sold to Jacobs Pharmacy in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr Pemberton's book keeper, Frank Robinson, suggested that it be called COCA-COLA.

"Two C's would look well in advertising"

was his rationale as he penned out in looping, genteel Spencerian script the name for the new soda fountain drink. On January 31 1893, the trademark COCA-COLA in Spencerian script was first registered in the US Patient Office.

Sales of the new product were $50 the first year and $76 was spent on advertising. By 1892, ownership of the Coca-Cola Company has been transferred to an aggressive young Atlanta businessman, Asa Candler. Under Mr Candler, the product would grow and expand. The first bottle of COCA-COLA was produced in 1894 in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

By 1919, ownership of the Coca-Cola Company changed hands, but the wonderful feelings and memories the soft-drink evokes - friends and family, joy and laughter - remain the same!!

© 2000 Martin G Hancock - Please do not use without prior permission

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