Complete History of the A&W Baby Mug

Ask anyone what they picture when they think of A&W Restaurants and chances are they'll mention a frosty mug of root beer. In fact, frosty mugs have been an A&W staple for nearly a century and popular with guests of all ages.

You may recall drinking from a tiny version of an A&W mug when you were younger. Known as a baby mug, these kid-friendly mugs have a history dating back to the early days of A&W Restaurants.

A&W Founder Roy Allen instituted a kids drink free policy, allowing youngsters to enjoy that 'frosty mug taste' from an early age. The only problem? Glass mugs were too heavy, making it difficult for children to hold. 

Thus, in the early 1920s, the first A&W baby mugs were born. Produced by Indiana Glass Company, the baby mugs were smaller in size and weight making it perfect for pint-sized customers to get their A&W Root Beer fix. 

To commemorate this long-standing history, a special 100th Anniversary version of the A&W baby mug is now available for purchase. Look for them in select A&W Restaurants and on www.awmerchandise.com.