June 28, 1820: The Tomato Triumphs in Salem, New Jersey

June 28, 1820: The Tomato Triumphs in Salem, New Jersey

For many years, tomatoes were believed to be poisonous in North America. This misconception stemmed from the fact that the tomato belongs to the nightshade family, which includes some toxic plants. However, on June 28, 1820, Colonel Robert Gibbon of Salem, New Jersey, decided to put this myth to the test.

In a public spectacle on the courthouse steps, Colonel Gibbon boldly consumed a tomato in front of a large crowd. His act of defiance was widely reported in newspapers across the country and helped to dispel the myth that tomatoes were poisonous.

The tomato's journey to culinary acceptance in the United States was not immediate, but Colonel Gibbon's public demonstration is considered a pivotal moment. It paved the way for tomatoes to become a beloved fruit (or technically a berry) that is enjoyed in countless dishes today. Source: Gemini