http://www.slate.com/articles/life/travel_explainer/2015/08/free_hotel_cookies_when_did_this_amenity_get_started.html

Nothing beats free food. Especially when you’ve traveled a long way and have just arrived at your destination. Whether they’re sitting in a jar, on display in a plastic case, or nestled in a warming drawer, it’s hard to think of anything sweeter for a hotel to offer than a free welcome cookie. But when did these saccharine amenities become a thing—and who did it first?