NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WFSB) - More than 100 years before lollipops became a global candy staple, a New Haven company created the iconic treat that would eventually reach movie screens and children worldwide.

The Bradley Smith Company coined the term “Lolly Pop” in the early 1900s, naming it after a race horse that brought company founder George Smith luck, according to Elm City historian Robert Greenberg.

“We say, ‘Oh, we invented the lollipop in New Haven, and here’s the proof,’” said Greenberg, who works with the non-profit museum “Lost in New Haven.”

While it is widely believed Smith coined the term in 1908, Greenberg has evidence the candy existed even earlier. A receipt from 1907 shows the company was already selling the candies by name.

“We have invoices that show the name of the can

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