35 Facts About Milton Hershey

Early Life of Milton Hershey

Milton Hershey's journey began in a small town, but his impact would eventually be felt worldwide. Here are some intriguing facts about his early years:

1. Born on September 13, 1857, in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, Milton Hershey grew up in a Mennonite family.
2. His parents, Henry and Fanny Hershey, had a tumultuous marriage, leading to their separation when Milton was young.
3. Milton attended seven different schools before dropping out at age 14 to work as an apprentice to a local printer.
4. After a year, he left the printing job and began an apprenticeship with a Lancaster, Pennsylvania, candy maker named Joseph Royer.

The Early Struggles

Milton Hershey faced numerous challenges before achieving success. These struggles shaped his character and determination.

5. In 1876, Milton started his first candy business in Philadelphia, but it failed after six years.
6. He then moved to Denver, where he learned about caramel making from a local confectioner.
7. After Denver, he tried his luck in Chicago, New Orleans, and New York, but each venture ended in failure.
8. Despite these setbacks, Milton never gave up on his dream of creating a successful candy business.

The Birth of the Lancaster Caramel Company

Milton Hershey's persistence paid off when he founded the Lancaster Caramel Company, which became his first major success.

9. In 1886, Milton returned to Lancaster and started the Lancaster Caramel Company with a loan of $150 from the bank.
10. He used fresh milk to make his caramels, which set them apart from competitors and quickly gained popularity.
11. By the early 1890s, the company employed over 1,300 workers and had international sales.
12. In 1900, Milton sold the Lancaster Caramel Company for $1 million, allowing him to focus on his true passion: chocolate.

The Hershey Chocolate Company

Milton Hershey's name became synonymous with chocolate, thanks to his innovative approach and dedication to quality.

13. In 1894, Milton founded the Hershey Chocolate Company as a subsidiary of the Lancaster Caramel Company.
14. He was inspired by the chocolate-making machinery he saw at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
15. Milton developed a unique formula for milk chocolate, making it affordable and accessible to the masses.
16. In 1903, he began construction of a chocolate factory in Derry Township, which would become the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania.

The Town of Hershey

Milton Hershey didn't just build a factory; he created an entire community for his workers, reflecting his philanthropic spirit.

17. The town of Hershey was designed with comfortable homes, schools, parks, and recreational facilities for employees.
18. Hershey Park, an amusement park, was opened in 1906 for the enjoyment of workers and their families.
19. Milton established the Hershey Industrial School in 1909, providing education and care for orphaned boys.
20. The town's design and amenities were ahead of their time, promoting a high quality of life for residents.

Philanthropy and Legacy

Milton Hershey's generosity extended far beyond his chocolate empire, leaving a lasting legacy.

21. In 1918, Milton and his wife, Catherine, established the Milton Hershey School Trust, donating their entire fortune to the school.
22. The trust continues to support the Milton Hershey School, which now serves over 2,000 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
23. During the Great Depression, Milton initiated several construction projects to provide jobs for local workers.
24. He funded the construction of the Hershey Theatre, Hershey Community Building, and Hotel Hershey during this period.

Personal Life and Interests

Milton Hershey's personal life and interests reveal a man of diverse passions and deep convictions.

25. Milton married Catherine Sweeney in 1898, and they remained devoted to each other until her death in 1915.
26. The couple had no children, which influenced their decision to focus on philanthropy.
27. Milton enjoyed traveling and often visited Europe, where he gained inspiration for his business and community projects.
28. He was an avid gardener and maintained beautiful gardens at his home in Hershey.

Later Years and Death

Milton Hershey's later years were marked by continued dedication to his business and community.

29. In 1935, he established the M.S. Hershey Foundation to provide educational and cultural opportunities for residents of Hershey.
30. Milton remained actively involved in the Hershey Chocolate Company until his death.
31. He passed away on October 13, 1945, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, philanthropy, and community building.

Fun Facts About Milton Hershey

Some lesser-known facts about Milton Hershey add a touch of intrigue to his already fascinating story.

32. Milton was a fan of baseball and supported local teams, even building a stadium in Hershey.
33. He once bought a ticket for the Titanic but changed his plans at the last minute, avoiding the tragic voyage.
34. Milton's favorite candy was not chocolate but caramels, a nod to his early business success.
35. The Hershey Company continues to honor Milton's legacy by maintaining high standards of quality and community involvement.

The Legacy of Milton Hershey

Milton Hershey's life was a blend of innovation, philanthropy, and resilience. From founding the Hershey Chocolate Company to establishing the Hershey Industrial School, his impact on both the confectionery world and education remains profound. His vision transformed a small town into a thriving community, providing jobs and opportunities for countless individuals. Hershey's commitment to quality and community set a standard that continues to inspire. His legacy isn't just about chocolate; it's about creating a better world through hard work and generosity. Next time you enjoy a Hershey bar, remember the man behind the brand and his dedication to making a difference. His story is a testament to what one person can achieve with determination and a big heart. Milton Hershey's contributions will be remembered for generations, proving that sweet dreams can indeed come true.