By The Central PA 
Milton Snavely Hershey, born on September 13, 1857, in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, transformed from a poor farmer boy into one of the most iconic figures in the confectionery industry. His journey from humble beginnings to founding the Hershey Chocolate Company is a tale of perseverance, innovation, and philanthropy.
Early Life and Struggles
Milton Hershey’s early life was marked by instability and financial struggles. His father, Henry Hershey, was often unsuccessful in his ventures, leading to frequent relocations for the family[2]. Despite these challenges, young Milton developed a passion for candy-making during an apprenticeship with a confectioner in Lancaster[10]. However, his initial attempts at starting his own candy businesses in Philadelphia and New York ended in failure[4].
The Caramel Success
In 1883, Milton returned to Lancaster and founded the Lancaster Caramel Company. By using fresh milk in his caramels, he created a product that gained significant popularity[4]. The company grew rapidly, employing over 1,300 workers by the early 1890s[6]. In 1900, Milton sold the Lancaster Caramel Company for $1 million to focus entirely on chocolate production[2][8].
Birth of the Hershey Chocolate Company
Inspired by chocolate-making equipment he saw at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Hershey embarked on a mission to make affordable milk chocolate for the masses[8]. In 1903, he began constructing a chocolate factory in Derry Church (later renamed Hershey), Pennsylvania[1][6]. By 1905, the factory was operational, marking the beginning of mass-produced milk chocolate[6].
Building a Community
Milton Hershey’s vision extended beyond chocolate production. He built the town of Hershey with homes, schools, parks, and public transportation for his employees[1][9]. During the Great Depression, he initiated building projects to keep workers employed and sustain the local economy[5][9]. His philanthropic efforts included founding the Milton Hershey School for orphaned boys in 1909, which continues to operate today[8].
Economic Impact
The Hershey Company has had a profound impact on Pennsylvania’s economy. As of 2022, it employed nearly 20,000 full-time workers and contributed significantly to making Pennsylvania one of the largest candy economies in the U.S.[3]. The company’s initiatives have supported local dairy farmers and environmental conservation efforts through partnerships with organizations like the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay[3].
Legacy
Milton Hershey left behind more than just a successful business; he created a legacy of community support and philanthropy that continues to influence lives today. His story is one of resilience and dedication—a testament to how one man’s vision can transform an industry and uplift an entire community.
Hershey’s journey from a struggling entrepreneur to a chocolate magnate exemplifies how perseverance and innovation can lead to monumental success. His contributions have not only shaped the confectionery world but also enriched countless lives through his community-building efforts.
Sources
[1] Who Was Milton Hershey | His History & Life https://hersheystory.org/milton-hershey-history/
[2] Milton Hershey: The Chocolate King | Full Documentary | Biography https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQab8WDXxss
[3] Sweet news: Pennsylvania has the country’s fourth-largest ‘candy … https://pennsylvaniaindependent.com/economy/sweet-news-pennsylvania-has-the-countrys-fourth-largest-candy-economy/
[4] Milton S. Hershey – Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milton_S._Hershey
[5] Economic Impact – Hershey https://hersheyhelpinghand.weebly.com/economic-impact.html
[6] Origins of Hershey’s Milk Chocolate – Hershey Community Archives https://hersheyarchives.org/encyclopedia/origins-of-hersheys-milk-chocolate/
[7] Hershey, PA – Data USA https://datausa.io/profile/geo/hershey-pa/
[8] Milton Hershey – Life, Timeline & Death – Biography https://www.biography.com/business-figure/milton-hershey
[9] A Culture & Spirit of Connections Drives Economic Stability https://www.thehersheycompany.com/en_us/home/newsroom/blog/a-culture-spirit-of-connections-drives-economic-stability.html
[10] Milton Hershey https://www.thehersheycompany.com/en_us/home/about-us/milton-hershey.html
[11] Community Impact | The Hershey Company https://www.thehersheycompany.com/en_us/home/sustainability/sustainability-focus-areas/community-impact.html
[12] Milton Snavely Hershey | Candy Maker, Chocolate Tycoon … https://www.britannica.com/biography/Milton-Snavely-Hershey
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