Skip to Content

Frank Mason Robinson

« Back to Glossary Index

Career:
– Robinson and David Doe invented a chromatic printing device in 1885.
– They struck a deal with Dr. John S. Pemberton in Atlanta in 1886.
– The Pemberton Chemical Company was formed with Robinson, Pemberton, Doe, and Ed Holland.
– Robinson named the syrup formula Coca-Cola in 1886.
– Robinson played a key role in the early advertising of Coca-Cola.

Coca-Cola:
– The formula was introduced in May 1886 at Jacobs Pharmacy in Atlanta.
– Sales reached 1,049 US gallons in the second year.
– Asa G. Candler bought the formula for $2,300 in 1888.
The Coca-Cola Company was officially established in 1892.
– Robinson changed the syrup formula to exclude cocaine traces by 1906.

Personal life:
– Robinson was originally from Maine and married Laura Clapp in Iowa.
– He owned multiple properties, including a 40-acre country home.
– Robinson taught a Bible class at the First Christian Church of Atlanta.
– He was involved in both national Republican and state/local Democratic politics.
– Robinson was buried in Atlantas Westview Cemetery upon his death in 1923.

References:
– Mark Pendergast’s book “For God, Country, and Coca-Cola” provides a comprehensive history.
– F.N. Boney’s article “First Atlanta and then the World” offers insights into Coca-Cola’s legacy.
– The Chronicle of Coca-Cola details the Candler era and the birth of the drink.
– An article in The Columbus Enquirer-Sun from 1906 credits Robinson for Coca-Cola’s success.
– Jeff Clemmons’ book “Atlanta’s Historic Westview Cemetery” provides additional information about Robinson’s burial site.

Frank Mason Robinson (September 12, 1845 – July 8, 1923) was an important early marketer and advertiser of what became known as Coca-Cola.

Frank Mason Robinson
Robinson, c. 1917
BornSeptember 12, 1845 (1845-09-12)
DiedJuly 8, 1923 (1923-07-09) (aged 77)
NationalityAmerican
Occupation(s)Marketer and advertiser
Signature
« Back to Glossary Index