Episode 263: Hoes of History: Alma Spreckels

The Homance Chronicles

Ever wonder where the term "Sugar Daddy" came from? We have Mrs. Alma Spreckels to thank for that. She was married to a man 24 years older than her and he actually owned Spreckels Sugar Company.

Born into modest beginnings in 1881, Alma de Bretteville aka Alma Spreckels emerged from the shadows to become a prominent figure in the social and cultural landscape of early 20th-century America. She was known as a risque model because she we pose partially nude. Men would chase her, including Charlie Anderson, a successful miner. After a very brief courtship, she sued him for $50,000 for “breach of promise” to marry her. She won the case and was awarded $1,250.

Alma went from small-town girl to the queen of society, exploring her unbridled passion for art, philanthropy, and social justice. As the wife of sugar magnate Adolph Spreckels, Alma played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural identity of San Francisco and beyond. She held legendary gatherings at the Spreckels Mansion, where artists, intellectuals, and influencers of the time converged to celebrate creativity and challenge the status quo.

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