It all started in 1902 with a young and enthusiastic Arthur Abbott. He was traveling with small carnivals along the eastern seaboard, spending his days entertaining the public, and his nights perfecting his secret recipe for a frozen dessert. He peddled his delicious creation as he moved from state to state with the carnival, and saved the profits to support his interests in horse racing. Little did he know the impact his heavenly treat would have on the public for years to come. In 1926, tired of the constant travel, he settled down in the port town of Rochester, New York. He opened up shop at the corner of Lake and Beach Avenues, just across the street from Lake Ontario. At the time, there was a bustling amusement park there that drew crowds of people from all over. Once word got out about Arthur’s handcrafted concoction, people started lining up by the hundreds to enjoy what became known as Abbott’s Frozen Custard. Photos courtesy of Westchester County Archives Arthur continued to explore other areas to sell Abbott’s Frozen Custard and soon discovered another amusement park, “Playland” at Rye Beach. He opened up several successful shops in the park, and was truly enjoying the fruits of his labor. He still loved horses, and used his new found success to buy and train his own racehorse. In 1952, Arthur struck it rich when his prized horse, Blue Man, won the Preakness Stakes, earning Arthur an astonishing $86,135. Now in his seventies, and financially comfortable, Arthur was seriously considering the prospect of hanging up his scoops for good. However, in the summer of 1957, Arthur met Leonard and Thelma Schreiber. This couple loved Abbott’s just as much as he did, and he felt content to let them carry on his delicious tradition. Mr. and Mrs. Schreiber expanded the business, and even commissioned the first Abbott’s franchise at 630 West Ridge Road in Rochester, NY. In 1981, Mrs. Schreiber unveiled a new frozen novelty called the Turtle, which has remained a signature menu item. The Abbott's Custard of Today The original Abbott’s stand in Rochester, NY continues to serve thousands of customers each year. Company headquarters are nearby, where the corporate office operates year round to spread Abbott’s happiness to all corners of the world. The business has expanded nationally and consistently receives awards for its products.