A Brief History of Pickles in America

From Colonial Crunch to Freedom-Packed Jars

Pickles are one of America’s oldest—and boldest—foods. Long before they were layered on burgers, stacked on charcuterie boards, or jarred by patriotic mascots like Sergeant Pickle Cruncher, pickles were a staple in American households for their flavor, nutrition, and long shelf life.

At Freedom Pickles, we’re proud to carry on that crunchy legacy with our small-batch, all-natural lineup made by a disabled veteran-owned team in Citra, Florida. But before our Gunny Garlicky, Patriot Missiles, and Firework Frenzies flavors hit the shelves, pickles had already been doing work in American history.

Let’s take a look back at how pickles became an iconic part of American food culture—and why they still taste like freedom today.

🛳️ 1600s–1700s: Pickles Sail to the New World

Pickles arrived in America with European settlers who brought brining traditions with them. Cucumbers were often packed in vinegar and spices to help preserve them during long voyages across the Atlantic. In colonial times, pickles were an essential part of every pantry—one of the few ways to store vegetables year-round.

Even Thomas Jefferson was a fan—he reportedly grew cucumbers at Monticello and believed pickles were good for health.

⚔️ 1800s: Pickles on the Frontlines

By the 19th century, pickles were packed into soldier rations during the Civil War. They were lightweight, preserved well, and offered a much-needed bite of acidity and nutrition in the field. Sound familiar?

At Freedom Pickles, we honor that tradition with flavors made to serve—built tough like the troops who carried them.

🏭 1900s: Pickles Go Mainstream

As America industrialized, so did pickle production. Immigrant communities—particularly Jewish immigrants—played a major role in turning pickling into a craft, especially in cities like New York. Pickles became common in delis, diners, and lunch counters across the country.

Brands popped up everywhere, but many mass-produced pickles began to sacrifice flavor for shelf life. That’s where we draw the line.

Freedom Pickles brings it back to small-batch roots with handcrafted brines and no artificial junk—just real ingredients and bold, all-American flavor.

🥒 Modern Times: Pickles Get Their Crunch Back

Today, the pickle has made a full-blown comeback. From artisan varieties to pickle festivals and TikTok trends, America is once again obsessed with the crunch.

But it’s not just about taste. For us, it’s also about purpose.

At Freedom Pickles, we combine our love for that classic crunch with a mission to support U.S. veterans—through employment, community outreach, and charitable giving. Our flavors aren’t just good—they stand for something.

Because pickles in America have always been about resourcefulness, resilience, and bold flavor—qualities we honor in every jar.

The Future is Brined in Freedom

From colonial kitchens to military rations to backyard BBQs, pickles have stood the test of time. And at Freedom Pickles, we’re proud to carry that legacy forward—with bold flavors, handcrafted care, and a cause that goes beyond the jar.

So the next time you bite into a spear of Patriot Missiles or spice things up with Firework Frenzies, you’re not just enjoying a snack—you’re tasting a slice of American history.

👉 Join the Pickle Legacy

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