The U.S. Patent Office records show December 1, 1885 as the first time Dr Pepper
was served. It was formulated by Brooklyn-born pharmacist Charles Alderton (below)
in Morrison’s Old Corner Drug Store in Waco, Texas. Store owner Wade Morrison was 
the first to taste test the drink. Patrons of Morrison’s soda fountain soon learned of    
the new drink and began ordering what was called a “Waco”. Alderton gave the
formula to Morrison who then named it Dr Pepper. It was introduced nationally
at the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition.

Charles Courtice Alderton

 
Old Corner Drug Store