A large percentage of the population loves to drink both gourmet coffee and
espresso drinks. We are all aware of the fact that coffee and espresso provide
a boost of energy and they also warm your body up on those cold winter days.
Most, however, are not familiar with the history of the coffee and espresso
machines, themselves. Without these machines, we probably wouldn't see
such a large population that can easily and affordably prepare these common
drinks.
Where did the coffee maker come from?
Since the days of the early Egyptians, coffee has been a staple beverage for
most people. Though the Coffee bean originated in Africa, it quickly spread
to neighboring countries, like Arabia and Egypt. The first method of bean preparation
was to roast the beans on an open fire and then added to boiling water for consumption.
It is believed that coffee was probably considered a type of wine and used
to barter and trade. Fermented in much the same as grapes, coffee was a source
of energy and warmth for most, but some drank it because they loved the taste,
too.
A man by the name of Mr. Laurens came up with the first coffee-making machine
in 1818. The machine was constantly modified by coffee drinkers. The coffee
machine was actually a product that had just as many patents by women as men,
that was practically unheard of at that time!
Through the years, the coffee machine has become a reliable, dependable and
easy to use product. In the 1960's, the first filter machines were invented
and the modifications have improved even more since then. Coffee making machines
began as crude looking inventions, but have evolved into many different styles,
making it possible for a Governor and a Harley biker to own the same style!
Found in just about every home, the coffee machine is made by many manufacturers,
including: Braun, Senseo, Kitchenaid, Krups and Pod.
Where did the espresso machine come from?
Discovered by a goat herder and developed by a tired, hungry traveler, the
espresso drink has provided many with the extra energy they may need. The goat
herder noticed the goats acting like they had an extreme boost of energy. As
he searched for his heard, he noticed they were snacking on a red berry growing
from shrubs. Curious, he ate a berry and felt as if he had suddenly gained more
energy as a result. At the same time, a tired, hungry traveler witnesses the
occurrences and jumped at the chance to try it for himself. Having the same
reactions as the herder and goats, he knew that they were on to something. He
took some berries and began to add them to drinks for those in his hometown,
as the drink seemed to be a good source of energy. The idea took off from there!
The first espresso maker is said to have originated in Italy in 1901, by Italian
manufacturing company owner, Lugia Bezzer. He was simply looking for a way to
help speed up his employee's coffee breaks. He figured out that if pressure
was applied in the brewing process, the drink could be made in a lot less time.
Nicknamed "The fast coffee machine", the espresso machine patent
was sold in 1905. The new owner, Desidero Pavoni developed an espresso machine
that used a piston pump to force water through a tube and into the coffee.
Modifications on the espresso machine were halted by the onset of WWII. Production
picked up after the war and in 1946, the commercial espresso machine was invented.
Since that time, the espresso maker has been produced by many name brand companies,
including: Juda, Mr.Coffee, Kitchenaid and Braun. Offering various features,
styles, colors and prices, the espresso machine has come a long way!