Ruth Graves Wakefield

Chef who created the chocolate chip cookie

Ruth Graves Wakefield - Artists & Creatives born June 17th, 1903
Born
Died

1977
49 years ago — 74 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A chef and entrepreneur, she owned the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. In the 1930s, she invented the chocolate chip cookie by adding chocolate morsels to her butter drop cookie recipe. This innovation became widespread, leading to the chocolate chip cookie's popularity across the United States. The cookie's recipe was published in a Boston newspaper, quickly gaining traction. Eventually, Nestlé entered into an agreement to include her recipe on its chocolate packaging, further cementing the cookie's place in American culture.

Created the chocolate chip cookie

Published the original recipe with Nestlé

Other People Born on June 17th

Adolphus Frederick VI

Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Born
June 17th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1918 108 years ago — 35 years old

Served as Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz from 1914 until death in 1918. Oversaw the duchy during the tumultuous period of World War I. Engaged in various cultural and political initiatives, including supporting local agriculture and infrastructure. Transitioned leadership amidst significant changes in German territories.

Continue Reading

Sammy Fain

American pianist and composer of songs
Born
June 17th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1989 36 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent American pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the music industry from the 1920s to the 1980s. Composed numerous popular songs, many of which became standards in the American musical repertoire. Collaborated with notable lyricists, creating songs for Broadway musicals and Hollywood films. Won two Academy Awards for Best Original Song, cementing a legacy in film music. Fain's compositions are characterized by memorable melodies and intricate harmonies, influencing generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

John Hersey

American journalist and author of Hiroshima
Born
June 17th, 1914 112 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1993 33 years ago — 78 years old

A journalist and author, contributed significantly to frontline reporting and literature. Hersey's notable work includes 'Hiroshima', published in 1946, which presented a detailed account of the experiences of survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II. This work reshaped narratives around war and its consequences. In addition, Hersey covered major events such as the Second World War and the Korean War, earning recognition for his impactful journalism. Throughout his career, he won several awards for excellence in reporting and storytelling.

Continue Reading

Aurelio López

Baseball player and politician
Born
June 17th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1992 33 years ago — 44 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Detroit Tigers and the Seattle Mariners. Achieved significant success during the late 1970s and early 1980s, contributing to teams with his skills on the mound. Transitioned into politics after retiring from professional baseball, engaging in local government and community initiatives in Mexico.

Continue Reading

Pete Browning

Baseball player and batting champion
Born
June 17th, 1861 165 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1905 120 years ago — 44 years old

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1882, primarily played as an outfielder. Played for the Louisville Grays, Cincinnati Reds, and the Chicago Colts, among others. Achieved the title of batting champion in 1887 with a batting average of .341. Noted for his unique batting style and was influential in the development of hitting techniques in baseball.

Continue Reading

Thomas Haden Church

Actor, known for 'Sideways' and 'Wings'
Born
June 17th, 1960 66 years ago

An American actor engaged in television and film. Early career included cast roles in the television series 'Wings', playing Lowell Mather from 1990 to 1997. Gained recognition for the role in the critically acclaimed film 'Sideways' in 2004, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Highlighted in further projects, including roles in 'Spider-Man 3' and 'George of the Jungle'.

Continue Reading