Where Do You Fit in the Grand Tapestry of Outdoor Barbecue History?

8 minute read | Grills

The love of cooking over an open flame and savoring the delicious flavors of outdoor barbecue has been a part of human culture for nearly two million years. We stand on the shoulders of countless innovators who have shaped this tradition from its humble beginnings to the sophisticated grills we enjoy today.

The journey begins with our distant relatives, Homo Erectus, who first discovered the art of cooking over an open flame around 1.8 million years ago. This discovery marked the dawn of what we now call "barbecue." Although their methods were rudimentary, using simple spit roasting techniques and perhaps some form of seasoning, the act of gathering around a fire to share food became a cornerstone of human social life.

The term "barbecue" itself has a rich history, originating in the Caribbean during the 1500s. The Taino people, a tribe native to the region, are credited with coining the word. They roasted meats over open fires and covered them with spices, a practice that laid the groundwork for the basting techniques and marinades we use today. While their equipment was far simpler than the modern gas grills we know, their contributions to barbecue culture remain foundational.

Fast forward to the colonial period in America, where outdoor grilling became a beloved tradition. Early settlers embraced the practice, often hosting gatherings where community members would come together to celebrate with a feast cooked over an open flame. Even the American Revolution saw its fair share of barbecues, serving as a symbol of unity and celebration.

Today, while Americans are often seen as the most passionate barbecue enthusiasts, Canadians also cherish this tradition. Recent surveys indicate that over 90% of Canadians prefer classic grill favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken pieces, with steak rounding out the list of popular choices. Whether you're flipping burgers or searing steaks, there's something inherently satisfying about the communal aspect of outdoor cooking.

If you're someone who finds joy in the intricate dance of art and science that is outdoor grilling, the story of barbecue is a fascinating one. From the earliest sparks of innovation to the cutting-edge technology of today, the evolution of the barbecue reflects humanity's relentless pursuit of perfection in food preparation. And who knows? Maybe one day the History of Outdoor Barbecue will become a trivia challenge on a show like Jeopardy.

The Birth of Modern Gas Grills

The modern barbecue revolution began in 1958 when Phillip Arnold, a sales engineer from Milwaukee, was tasked with creating a residential gas grill. Inspired by this challenge, Arnold developed the prototype for what would eventually become the gas grill we know today. By 1966, he had moved to Southern California and founded AEI Corporation to distribute his perfected outdoor gas grill.

While "perfected" might be a relative term, the spirit of innovation that Arnold sparked continues to thrive. AEI Corporation now offers three distinct lines of PGS Grills: the A-Series, T-Series, and Legacy Grill lines. Each series comes in both natural gas and liquid propane models, catering to the diverse needs of residential and commercial users alike.

A-Series Grills: Versatile and Durable

The A-Series residential grills are crafted from sturdy cast aluminum and are available in both natural gas and propane models. These grills can be permanently installed by connecting them to a natural gas line, making them ideal for fixed outdoor kitchens. Alternatively, they can be mounted on a portable cart with wheels, offering the flexibility to move the grill as needed. With BTU outputs ranging from 30,000 to 40,000, these grills provide consistent and powerful heating for all your grilling needs.

T-Series Grills: Built for Commercial Use

Designed for commercial environments, the T-Series grills are a favorite among apartment complexes, condominiums, and other residential communities. Like the A-Series, these grills offer the option of running on either natural gas or liquid propane, with BTU outputs between 30,000 and 40,000. Their heavy-duty cast aluminum construction ensures durability, making them a reliable choice for high-use areas. Additionally, the T-Series includes three stainless steel grills that not only look sleek but are also built to withstand the elements.

Every T-Series grill comes equipped with a 60-minute gas flow shutoff timer, providing added safety and convenience. This feature ensures that no one can accidentally leave a grill on, giving peace of mind to both homeowners and property managers.

Legacy Grills: The Apex of Innovation

The Legacy series stands out as one of the most innovative lines of outdoor grills available today. Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, these grills are available in both natural gas and liquid propane models. With BTU outputs reaching up to 102,000, Legacy grills are capable of handling even the largest and most demanding cooking sessions. The expansive cooking area offers options with 960 square inches of grilling space, along with generous warming racks.

Legacy grills are perfect for creating a complete outdoor kitchen. They serve as the centerpiece, complemented by accessories like beverage centers, side burners, and the groundbreaking infrared rotisserie burner. As history shows, progress never ceases, and the Legacy series continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in outdoor cooking.

Essential Modern Grill Accessories

Looking back, it's hard to imagine that Phillip Arnold's vision of a gas-powered outdoor grill would transform how families and businesses approach outdoor cooking. Holidays like the Fourth of July and Labor Day are now synonymous with backyard barbecues, a testament to the enduring appeal of this tradition. Today's PGS Grills offer a wide range of accessories that enhance the grilling experience:

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

Both residential and commercial users appreciate the practicality of a 60-minute grill timer, which helps save fuel and enhances safety by preventing accidents. These accessories underscore the commitment of PGS Grills to delivering quality and innovation.

With their robust construction and precise temperature control, PGS Grills have become a staple for those who demand excellence in their outdoor cooking experiences. As the story of outdoor barbecue continues to unfold, PGS Grills remain at the forefront, building on the legacy established by Phillip Arnold over six decades ago.

Go Back To Blog


Have questions or need more information? Feel free to reach out, and we'll be happy to assist you!


  1. * Required Information

Mold Parts

Mold Parts,Custom Injection Mold, Injection Mold Manufacturing, Precision Mold Components

Dongguan Hao Chen Precision Industry Co., Ltd. , https://www.howmolds.com