The Potato Chip's Legendary Beginnings in Saratoga Springs, NY

George Speck Crum, a cook at Moon's Lake House on Saratoga Lake, is often credited with the "accidental" invention of the potato chip in 1853. The story goes that a customer complained their fried potatoes were not crisp enough. Crum, clearly not a fan of food critics, sliced the potatoes paper-thin, fried them to a crunch, and potato chips were born.

Another version of the tale suggests Crum's sister, Kate Speck Wicks, accidentally dropped a potato slice into hot oil, and Crum gave it a taste test.

Though there are references to fried potatoes being popular at Saratoga Lake prior to this, and many others have claimed the invention, Saratoga and the chip became linked forever.

Whether Crum was the original creator or not, he certainly helped to popularize the snack. Brands like the Moon Brand, and many others, capitalized on the nation's insatiability for this salty, crunchy treat. Saratoga's place in snack history is secure, and locals are still proudly crunching on "Saratoga style" chips.

For more on Saratoga Springs History, visit the Saratoga Springs History Museum.

The Merry Marks team created an original Potato Chip character to celebrate this delicious piece of Upstate NY lore. Here's the collection:

Saratoga Springs Potato Chip Unisex Tee Shirt

Saratoga Springs Potato Chip Unisex Tee Shirt