In New Bern, North Carolina, a small pharmacy owned by Caleb Bradham became the birthplace of Pepsi in 1898. Bradham, a pharmacist known for his refreshing drink creations, developed a unique blend of carbonated water, sugar, vanilla, rare oils, and kola nut extract, initially naming it “Brad’s Drink.” Designed to aid digestion and boost energy, the beverage quickly gained popularity among locals, prompting Bradham to rename it Pepsi-Cola, inspired by the Greek word for digestion, “pepsis.”
Today, his pharmacy stands as a historic site at the corner of Middle and Pollock Streets and has been transformed into a museum celebrating Pepsi’s origins. The museum features vintage memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and a soda fountain serving classic drinks. This charming coastal town, one of North Carolina’s oldest, proudly preserves the legacy of a beverage that evolved from a local favorite into a global icon.
Resources
The Birthplace of Pepsi Website
The Birthplace of Pepsi Facebook
Location
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