Who invented Vanilla Extract?

In 1847, French chef Alfred Bird began experimenting with vanilla to try and create a solid form. He created a soft custard that set to a firm form at cool temperatures. He named this creation "blancmange" and it caught on as a fashionable dessert. In September of 1873, while trying to create a flavored frosting, he accidentally produced a thick liquid with vanilla flavor. This vanilla-infused liquid was what we know today as vanilla extract.