Earl of Sandwich
When we go to Cherokee or Murphy in North Carolina my favorite place to grab a great sandwich is at Earl of Sandwich. Unfortunately that is the closest place for us to get these delicious sandwiches.
My favorite is the tuna melt, it’s albacore tuna salad loaded with swiss cheese and mayonnaise.
I think part of the reason it’s so good is because of the fresh baked artisan bread. I’ve had plenty of tuna sandwiches but not as delicious as Earl of Sandwich.
I found out a bit of history from one of my FB friends and UBC bloggers about Earl of Sandwich that was quite interesting.
It seems like back in the medieval days of knights there was a small town called Sandwich in Kent. This is one of the best preserved medieval towns in the UK. Earl of Sandwich was a noble title created in the 1600’s for the prominent naval commander Admiral Sir Edward Montagu who was the first Earl of Sandwich. The 4th Earl of Sandwich was John Montagu a British statesman who succeeded his grandfather Edward Montagu, 3rd Earl of Sandwich.
Rumor has it that Lord Sandwich (John Montagu) was a very active gambler and he did not take the time to have a meal during his long hours playing at the card table. He didn’t want to stop to eat but when he did eat his hands would get messy and it would transfer to the cards they were playing. Consequently, he would ask his servants to bring him slices of meat between two slices of bread so he could eat and play cards without getting them messy. The sandwich became a habit that was well-known among his gambling friends.
So the Earl of Sandwich restaurant was named after a real person! Thanks Chef William for this interesting history lesson!
Wow, I didn’t remember that about the Earl of Sandwich. But thank goodness, he came up with that idea, since sandwiches are so awesome! Your sandwich above looks delicious. I wish I had some tuna at home, now. 🙂
Even before I know the story I’ve loved the tuna salad Jeanine. I love tuna and salmon patties also.
What an interesting story. I didn’t know the origin of the sandwich. Now, every time I eat a sandwich, I will remember this story. Thanks, Martha.
We learn so much from other bloggers Florence. I’m glad I learned this from Chef William.
Wow, Martha! I had heard of the Earl of Sandwich, who I heard invented “the sandwich”. But it’s wonderful to have your detailed history. And the name of this great eatery to check out in NC! And thanks for the recipes page name on FB. I’m always freshening up my repertoire.
If you are in western NC you gotta check them out. Also Chef William has so many delicious recipe!
That looks so good.
I love tuna but these sandwiches are delicious Amanda.