Uncovering the Origins of National Blueberry Pie Day: From 1829 Berry Recipes to Maine’s Official Dessert and Beyond

April 28 is celebrated as National Blueberry Pie Day every year, although the exact origin of this observance remains unclear. Many people use it as an excuse to indulge in a delicious slice of blueberry pie with or without ice cream on the side during the festivities. Interestingly, the first mention of “blueberry pie” dates back to 1829 according to the New England Historical Society, and some believe that it may have been included in an 1850 cookbook as well. However, the specific details about this are uncertain.
The recipe for berry pies was published in a cookbook called “Appledore Cook Book” in 1872. This recipe did not specify any particular type of berries and suggested that it could be made using blueberries or any other variety of berry. Wild blueberries, on the other hand, are native to North America and have been grown for thousands of years by indigenous people like the Wabanaki natives who introduced them to English settlers during the 17th century.
While many states in the US recognize a state dessert or pie, only Maine has chosen blueberry pie as its official dessert since 2011 after an intense legislative battle with proponents of another popular local treat – the whoopie pie (although eventually they were compromised to share title for each one). Additionally, wild-grown blueberries are harvested using a tool called a rake.
Maine celebrates Wild Blueberry Weekend annually in August during berry season and according to Maine Governor Janet Mills’ press release from 2023, last year alone saw the state’s farmers collect an impressive total of 77.5 million pounds (approximately 349,681 metric tons) of wild blueberries!
During the Civil War, many Union soldiers were introduced to wild-grown blueberries for the first time as they were shipped down from Maine to feed them during their service. After the war ended, canning businesses began popping up that made it easier for people outside New England (where these berries are commonly grown) to enjoy this fruit too!
Studies have shown that consuming wild blueberries regularly has a positive impact on cognitive decline in elderly adults due to its high concentration of anthocyanins – which can slow brain aging by at least two times when compared against conventional, more commercially popular cultivars. Children also benefit from eating these berries as they exhibit significant improvements in memory, decision-making abilities, response time, and mood after consuming them regularly according to research conducted by the Wild Blueberry Association of North America (WBANA).