Typically when I think of American history I don't really think about chocolate. This is not the case for the good people of the Historic Division of MARS, Incorporated. Searching out the true history of chocolate and getting the facts to us is their mission - and they have truly succeeded.
Chocolate is woven throughout American history withs its presence documented at early Thanksgiving feasts, as military rations in the American Revolutionary War, throughout the American colonies and as a breakfast drink enjoyed by George and Martha Washington. During the American Revolution chocolate replaced tea as the favored drink in the colonies as tea was viewed as a politically incorrect beverage during the struggle for independence from Britain.
During Colonial times chocolate was most often enjoyed as a beverage. It differed from other hot liquors of the time in that the cocoa beans were processed into chocolate bars or tablets then grated and prepared as a drink. American Heritage Chocolate has recreated chocolate in the authentic Colonial form to provide us with a taste of history in the chocolate we enjoy today.
Recently I attended a breakfast hosted by American Heritage Chocolate at the Federal Hall National Memorial on Wall Street in New York. A historic treasure, the Federal Hall National Memorial was built in 1842 on the site of the original New York City Hall - which later became the first capital of the United States. George Washington's Inaguration took place on the steps of the original building as well as numerous other significant historical events including the introduction of the United States Bill of Rights. This site was the birthplace of American Government!
I enjoyed a breakfast prepared with American Heritage Chocolate including french toast with chocolate syrup, chocolate scones and an authentic hot chocolate beverage like the one enjoyed in Colonial times. Recipes were created by the chefs at Colonial Williamsburg. It was a special experience to enjoy authentic Colonial era chocolates at such a significant historic site. Rodney Snyder from the Historic Division of MARS, Incorporated was on hand to provide a demonstration of chocolate making techniques in the early years by grinding cacao nibs on a metata stone, adding spices typical of the time period and providing insight and samples of the historic process.
American Heritage Chocolate brings the same experience to you through its partnership with historic foundations across the country like Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. Chocolate history comes alive with demonstrations of chocolate making techniques of yesteryear. This is truly a special way to experience American history and chocolate's role throughout. Of course it is a very tasty history lesson as well! American Heritage products can also be purchased online at http://americanheritagechocolate.com . You can also learn more about the history of chocolate from American Heritage Chocolate's book, Chocolate, History, Culture and Heritage also available online.
Personally, I think a breakfast of history and chocolate is the true breakfast of champions!
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