A. (Augustin) Thompson

Born in Union, Maine, in 1835, Augustin Thompson served in the Union Army during the American Civil War and was wounded in service. After the war, he studied at Hahnemann Homeopathic Medical College, graduated with honors, and built a successful medical practice in Lowell, Massachusetts.

Thompson’s lasting fame comes from his work as the inventor of Moxie. What began as a patent medicine called "Nerve Food" developed into the better-known Moxie tonic and then into the carbonated drink that became a regional classic. He reportedly wanted to offer a remedy without ingredients such as cocaine or alcohol, which were common in some products of the era.

Later in life, he balanced his medical career with his role in the growing Moxie business. He died in Boston in 1903, but his name remains closely tied to one of the most memorable drinks in American popular culture.