A Storied Past ... A “Happily Ever After” Future

Once upon a time in 1902, a young and enthusiastic Arthur Abbott was traveling the Eastern Seaboard with the summer carnivals. He spent his days entertaining the crowds and his nights perfecting his secret recipe for a special frozen dessert. Little did he know the lasting impact his heavenly treat would make.

Eventually, Arthur found his way to the port town of Rochester, New York – a community he found to be very special. He opened a stand right across the street from Charlotte Beach on the shores of Lake Ontario which was also home to a bustling amusement park.

As word spread of Arthur’s handcrafted frozen concoction, people would line up from morning ‘til night to enjoy what had now become known as Abbott’s Frozen Custard.

From his newfound success, Arthur was able to buy and train his own racehorse. He struck it rich when his prized horse, Blue Man, won the Preakness Stakes in 1952, earning Arthur an astonishing $86,135. At that point, Arthur was in his 70s and financially comfortable, so he considered hanging up his scoops for good.

In the summer of 1957, Thelma and Lenny Schreiber purchased Abbott’s Frozen Custard intent on carrying on the wonderful tradition Arthur had started. Their family continues to own Abbott’s Frozen Custard ensuring it will always be a family business.

Mrs. Schreiber unveiled a new frozen custard novelty called the Turtle (made with layers of Abbott’s frozen custard, Spanish peanuts, and fudge, frozen on a stick and dipped in dark chocolate) which remains a signature Abbott’s treat to this day.

While Arthur’s stand at Charlotte beach continues to serve guests each day, Abbott’s Frozen Custard has gained prominence as a nationally recognized family brand dedicated to its communities. Abbott’s has since opened new locations in neighborhoods near and far while remaining a family business.

Arthur Abbott’s favorite saying still serves as the company motto, “…it’s always been about the taste!” With continued market expansion came a delicious and diverse selection of cones, dishes, sundaes, pies, treats and more.

For nearly 100 years, an Abbott’s Frozen Custard stand has been the perfect destination “after” any event or occasion. Win or lose, good day or bad, after the park or a picnic, going to Abbott’s “after” helps make everything even better.