Exactly 114 years ago, a grocer in Hoboken, New Jersey, made a historic purchase that would change the cookie industry forever. March 6, 1912, marked the day when the first recorded transaction of what would become the iconic Oreo cookie took place, as a tin of cookies was picked up from a Manhattan bakery.
The cookies were produced at the National Biscuit Company’s factory in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, a location that now houses the bustling Chelsea Market. Today, the area between 15th and 16th Streets on Ninth Avenue is still affectionately known as “Oreo Way” in honor of the legendary cookie.
The grocer who made that historic purchase was S.C. Thuesen, whose shop stood at the corner of 10th and Washington Streets. He bought 9.25 pounds of the cookies for $1.85, along with a tin for an additional 50 cents. Sold by weight in canisters with glass lids, the cookies were initially known as Oreo Biscuits.
What many might not know is that the Oreo wasn’t the original chocolate sandwich cookie on the market. Hydrox, a similar cookie, had been available since 1908, four years prior to the introduction of the Oreo. Despite this, Nabisco’s version quickly rose to popularity due to its sweeter taste and stronger marketing efforts, eventually surpassing Hydrox in sales.
The exact origin of the name “Oreo” remains a mystery. Some believe it could be derived from the French word “or,” meaning gold, reflecting the cookie’s original gold-colored packaging. Others speculate it may come from the Greek word for mountain, as early versions of the cookie were reportedly dome-shaped. Regardless, Nabisco has never confirmed the true inspiration behind the name.
Since its inception in 1912, the cookie has undergone several name changes before settling on Oreo Chocolate Sandwich Cookie in 1974. From that initial purchase in Hoboken, Oreos have become a global phenomenon, with over 500 billion sold worldwide and availability in more than 100 countries.
As we celebrate National Oreo Cookie Day and reflect on its rich history, one thing remains certain: the Oreo cookie’s enduring popularity and timeless appeal have solidified its place in the hearts of cookie lovers everywhere.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.