History behind Everglades Seasoning

Everglades Seasoning was first created in 1944 by Mess Sergeant Bill Gerstman. Gerstman arrived in Saipan to find the Soldiers of the 714th Rescue Mission so disgusted with eating only mutton and goat that they were dumping their rations into the sea. Gerstman was raised on a small farm in Alabama and was taught that anything could be made to taste good if seasoned properly. Based on this he began experimenting with various herbs and spices. The result was a secret recipe that not only satisified the soldiers’ appetites, but the delicious taste had them coming back for more.

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After completing his military duties, Gerstman returned home to the states and resumed his trade as a meat cutter/butcher at the LaBelle Trading Post in LaBelle, FL. With spices and seasonings easier to obtain, he perfected his secret recipe to the delight of many customers who patronized the small general store.

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In 1976 the secret formula was finally perfected, the famous logo was patented and Everglades Seasoning was born. Gerstman seasoned local meats for years until, in 1985 he sold the recipe to Gene and Martha Cross owners of the LaBelle Trading Post. The Cross’ began distributing Everglades Seasoning in southwest Florida. In February 1992 Everglades Foods, Inc. purchased Everglades Seasoning. Along with the original Everglades, Heat, 1/3 less salt, No MSG, Cactus Dust, Fish and Chicken, BBQ rub, and Moppin’ Sauce have all been added to the product line up.

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All the Everglades Products have a wide variety of uses that we hope to share with you, so you can love them all as much as what we do!