Originator: Unknown. Date of origin: Campfire marshmallows first sold circa 1900. Slogans: "The Original Food Marshmallow" Notes: The marshmallow confection was originally made from the root of the marsh mallow, a plant native to Europe and a member of the mallow family of herbs and shrubs, many of which grow in marshy areas. Some other family members are cotton, rose of Sharon, okra, and hollyhock.