
In 1904, Latrobe, Pennsylvania became the birthplace of a beloved American dessert: the banana split.

A young apprentice pharmacist named David Strickler, working at Tassell Pharmacy, came up with this ice cream treat.

As a 23-year-old soda fountain worker, Strickler liked testing new ice cream combinations to attract customers looking for something different.

His idea of slicing a banana lengthwise and topping it with scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream quickly became popular with local students at nearby Saint Vincent College.

To complete the treat, he added whipped cream, chocolate and strawberry syrups, chopped nuts, and a cherry on top.

The banana split’s popularity soon spread across the country, becoming a staple of American dessert culture.

Strickler later purchased the pharmacy where he invented the banana split.

He remained a well-known figure in Latrobe until his passing in 1971 at the age of 90.

Today, a Pennsylvania state historical marker and a concrete banana split monument stand on the site where Tassell Pharmacy once operated.

Each August, Latrobe celebrates its claim to fame with the Great American Banana Split Celebration, honoring the sweet history that began in this small Pennsylvania town.

If you want to visit this “sweet” roadside attraction and historical marker yourself, you’ll find it at 801 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA 15650.
Nearby Attractions
Exploring Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood in Latrobe describes a road trip through Latrobe that explores 4 key locations in Fred Rogers’ hometown tied to his personal and professional journey.

27 Must-See Attractions in Westmoreland County is your guide to even more great things to see and do near Latrobe.

Discover more than 1000 exceptional destinations all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!
Did you enjoy this article?
If so, be sure to like and follow PA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest to learn more about the best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!
Click on any of the icons below to get connected to PA Bucket List on social media.
