You'll Love This Nostalgic Candy Wagon That's Only Found In New Orleans
By Jackie Ann|Published May 01, 2019
×
Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
There are some things that are only found in New Orleans. From Bourbon Street to beignets, we certainly have some truly unique attractions that we are lucky enough to have in our own back yard. For anyone who grew up in New Orleans, this particular attraction will fill you with nostalgia, so let’s take a closer look at this historic candy wagon.
For many New Orleanians, the sight of this historic candy wagon sparks memories of childhood delight.
It all began with Angelina Napoli Cortese, who would make the candy for family and friends for special occasions. Her son, Sam Cortese, would take the leftover candy and sell it on his fruit and vegetable wagon, and it quickly became a hit.
In 1915, he and a wheelwright by the name of Tom Brinker worked together to design a wagon that would allow Sam to travel the streets while being able to make the candy as he went. That same wagon is still used today.
Selling just three flavors, chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, you can frequently catch this historic wagon traveling around New Orleans, primarily in the Uptown area and at festivals and other outdoor attractions in the city.