On January 3rd National Drinking Straw Day commemorates the date in 1888 that Marvin C. Stone received the patent for the paper drinking straw. Since then, all variety of drinking straws are used.

It is believed the Sumerians used the very first drinking straws for drinking beer.  Archeologists speculate they used the straws to avoid the solid byproducts of fermentation that would have sunk to the bottom.  The oldest drinking straw known to be in existence was found in a Sumerian tomb dated 3,000 B.C.E.  This found straw was a gold tube inlaid with a precious blue stone.

The Argentines used a similar metallic device called a bombilla. Used for hundreds of years, the bombilla acted as both a straw and a sieve.

Today, manufacturers make a variety of reusable straws.  From stainless steel and glass to bamboo and silicone, they not only save money and the environment, but they are also fun to use.  They come in a variety of creative shapes and colors. 

NATIONAL DRINKING STRAW DAY HISTORY

The United States Patent Office granted Mavin G. Stone, his Patent # US375962 A on January 3, 1888.

HOW TO OBSERVE #DrinkingStrawDay

Reduce an ever bigger carbon footprint and get a great product as well. See also Skip the Straw Day, Chocolate Covered Cherries Day, and Fruitcake Toss Day.

Enjoy your favorite beverage using a drinking straw. Use #DrinkingStrawDay to post on social media.