In 1947, Carl Sponseller bought a property and created Carl’s Frozen Custard. A couple of years later he made the world famous sign, and now the building is part of Virginia Historical Society, and registered as a Virginia Historic Landmark.
In the 1950s, Carl would shut down the business in the slower months, to do other interests. It created such a frenzy with people saying that he “took away” their frozen custard, that when he reopened in February, an otherwise slow month, business exploded! The tradition remains.
When Carl decided to retire, he sold it to his brothers, Paul Sponseller and Herbert Sponseller, keeping the traditions.
When Herbert retired, he sold his interest to his niece and nephew, Ramona Settle and Daniel Sponseller. When Paul retired, he sold it to his remaining daughter Cristina McCann. It is now run by all 3 siblings in the same traditions as in the beginning. The recipe has never changed, and Frozen Custard is still made daily, until it runs out at night!
Famous persons have enjoyed the famous recipe from Sports celebrities, to famous Politicians, to Movie Stars. And yes they all had to stand in line!
Carl’s is open for the season the Friday before President’s Day through the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
