What’s the most famous dessert in the nation? Apple pie? A Twinkie? Ice cream that dropped from some galoot’s cone, and is now melting on the sidewalk?
Incorrect. “America’s most iconic dessert” is the chocolate chip cookie, according to a reputable source: the Museum of American Heritage in Palo Alto. On August 23, the museum will throw a special celebration for this butter-loaded, chocolatey treat because… well, there’s no explanation given for the timing, but do you really need one?
The museum is urging visitors to “bring the whole family” and enjoy free cookies and milk, play historic games and soak in the sun in its well-manicured garden. After that, attendees are welcome to explore the museum itself, which is located in a 1907 Tudor revival-style home and showcases precomputer technology dating to the mid-1700s.
An exhibit that opened this month, “It All Adds Up: Adding Machines and Calculators,” will appeal to the abacus freaks out there. Then there are permanent treasures like the first electric-powered washing machine, a replica 1930s kitchen with all the contemporary gadgets and a vintage garage holdinig a 1915 Ford Model T Touring car.
Details: Event takes place 1 p.m.-4 p.m. August 23 at 351 Homer Ave., Palo Alto; free admission but suggested donation of $10 per person, RSVP at moah.org/moahevents