Thomas Adams (chewing gum maker)

Thomas Adams (1818–1905), was a 19th century American scientist and inventor who is regarded as a founder of the chewing gum industry. He eventually joined with well-known chewing gum maker William Wrigley, Jr.

Time With Santa Ana

Adams conceived of the idea while working as secretary to former Mexican leader, Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. Santa Ana chewed a Mexican plant called chicle, which Adams first tried to make into rubber for items such as tires. When Adams failed at creating a form of rubber suitable for making tires he experimented with chicle to form other things. He added sugar to the chicle creating the forerunner gum that would one day become known as Chiclets, which are still popular today.

Residence in Staten Island, New York

Adams lived in the West New Brighton section of Staten Island in the 1860's and 1870's.

See Also

• Cadbury Adams