Do You Know Your Place In Outdoor Barbecue History?

The tradition of savoring delicious outdoor barbecue dishes dates back almost 2 million years, and we are the inheritors of every innovation since that time. It all started with our ancient ancestors known as Homo Erectus, who began cooking over open flames 1.8 million years ago, according to research referenced in books like "Planet Barbecue." While their recipes might have been communicated through grunts and gestures, the concept of barbecuing has evolved significantly over millennia.

Fast forward to the 1500s when the term "barbecue" emerged in the Caribbean, coined by the Taino people, an indigenous tribe from North America. They covered their grilled food with spices and perfected the art of basting, laying the groundwork for what we now call barbecue sauces. Though they lacked the convenience of modern temperature-controlled grills or portable propane carts, their practices set the stage for the rich barbecue tradition we enjoy today.

As the American colonies grew, grilling over an open flame became a cherished social ritual. During the American Revolution, celebratory barbecues marked significant victories. Similarly, in Canada, backyard grilling has become a beloved pastime, with popular choices including hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken, followed by steak as a close second.

For those fascinated by the culinary arts and sciences of grilling, the history of outdoor barbecue is nothing short of captivating. From simple spit roasts to state-of-the-art gas grills, the journey of barbecue is steeped in tradition and innovation.

Today's modern BBQs owe much to companies like AEI Corporation, which introduced the first gas-powered outdoor grills in 1958. Phillip Arnold, an engineer from Milwaukee, pioneered this technology, and his invention has evolved into the sleek, efficient grills we see today. AEI Corp now produces three distinct lines of PGS Grills—A-Series, T-Series, and Legacy Grills—each offering a range of features tailored to different needs.

Phillip Arnold Starts AEI Corp & PGS Grills Are Born

Phillip Arnold began his journey as a sales engineer for a Milwaukee natural gas utility. Challenged by his boss to develop a residential grill that ran on natural gas, Arnold experimented with various designs. By 1966, he had perfected his creation and relocated to Southern California to launch AEI Corp. Today, the company produces three main lines of PGS Grills, each with models that cater to both residential and commercial users.

PGS A-Series Grills for Homeowners

The A-Series grills are ideal for residential use, featuring both natural gas and propane models made from durable cast aluminum. These grills can be permanently installed and connected to natural gas lines or used portably with liquid propane tanks. With BTUs ranging from 30,000 to 40,000, they offer versatility and performance for any backyard chef.

T-Series Grills Designed for Commercial Settings

The T-Series grills are engineered for heavy-duty use, making them a favorite in apartment complexes and other communal spaces. Built with robust cast aluminum, these grills come in both natural gas and propane versions with BTUs between 30,000 and 40,000. Their expansive cooking areas and stainless steel grates make them a top pick for commercial settings. Additionally, all T-Series grills are equipped with 60-minute gas flow shutoff timers, ensuring safety and convenience.

Legacy Grills: The Height of Innovation

Among the most innovative offerings is the Legacy series, crafted from high-quality stainless steel with BTUs reaching up to 102,000. These grills are versatile enough for both home and commercial use, providing ample space for grilling with options exceeding 960 square inches. The Legacy series is celebrated for its advanced features, including beverage centers, side burners, and even an infrared rotisserie burner, making it a centerpiece for any outdoor kitchen.

Modern Grill Accessories Enhance the Experience

From its inception, Phillip Arnold's vision of a gas-fueled grill has transformed how families and businesses approach outdoor cooking. Whether it's a backyard barbecue or a community gathering, modern PGS Grills offer a range of accessories to enhance the experience:

• Stainless Steel Side Shelves
• Side Burners
• Infrared Rotisserie Burner & Spit
• Beverage Center
• Grill Storage Drawers
• Automatic Gas Shut-Off Timer

These accessories not only add functionality but also contribute to safety and efficiency. The 60-minute grill timer, for instance, helps prevent fuel wastage and ensures children's safety around hot grills.

PGS Grills stand out for their durability and precision heating, making them a lasting investment for any grill enthusiast. As the legacy of Phillip Arnold continues to grow, so does the innovation in outdoor cooking. While the future of barbecue remains unwritten, modern PGS Grills honor the rich history of outdoor grilling that began over six decades ago.