One of the nation's oldest soft drinks, Vernor's Ginger Ale was first served to the public in 1866. The drink was created by Detroiter James Vernor, a well-respected pharmacist with a reputation for meticulous care with his prescriptions.

What came first Vernors or Canada dry?

The Vernors style was common before Prohibition, during which "dry" pale, less sweet ginger ale (typified by Canada Dry Ginger Ale) became popular as a drink mixer.

How did Vernors start?

The story goes that in 1862 Detroit pharmacist James Vernor concocted a new drink. It was a mix of medical tonic, vanilla and spices, with a touch of ginger to soothe a sour stomach. He was going off to fight the Civil War, so he stored it in an oak cask. ... As demand grew, Vernor sold syrup to soda fountains.