People around the world have been eating various ground beef dishes for thousands of years, but the hamburger is considered a quintessential American food. While there are many conflicting stories about the origin of the modern hamburger, ground beef sandwiches were undoubtedly first created in the U.S. Who should get credit depends on whether you believe that the bun is a necessary component of a hamburger or whether any two pieces of bread will do. 

The History of the Hamburger

Ground Beef Comes to America

In the 18th century, German immigrants brought Hamburg steak to America’s shores. This dish was usually made from ground beef, seasoned, and then served either cooked or raw. While this regional dish likely laid the foundations for the modern hamburger, it wouldn’t be recognizable on the menus of American restaurants today. That development wouldn’t occur until the late 19th century.

The Origins of the First Hamburgers

Charlie Nagreen, a traveling food vendor, is credited for creating the first hamburgers at the County Fair in Seymour, WI, in 1885. To make something customers could eat while walking around, he flattened a beef meatball and served it between two pieces of bread. While he claimed the nickname “Hamburger Charlie,” his innovation lacked the bun, which most people consider to be a necessary component of a proper hamburger.

The first documented hamburger as we know it today appeared in 1891 on a small farm in Bowden, OK. Farmer Oscar Weber Wilby had just built a grill and cooked some flat hamburger patties, which he served up between two of his wife’s sourdough buns.

The First Hamburger Restaurants Open 

While the popularity of beef patties served on toasted bread grew steadily across the country, it wasn’t until the early 1900s that the hamburger reinvented American food. In 1916, a fry cook in Wichita, KS, named Walter Anderson developed a new type of bun, which was specially made to fit his burgers. In 1921, he and his business partner founded White Castle®, the oldest American burger chain.

If you’re looking for your new favorite burger, visit Western Grill Steak House for the finest American food in Andrews, TX. Their wide-ranging menu features delicious steaks cooked to perfection, a full salad bar, and even a selection of amazing pasta dishes. Visit their website now to browse their menu, call (432) 523-3887 with any questions, or bring your family by to try their incredible burgers and other American food staples yourself.