Introduction: The Hershey Bar
The Hershey Bar is one of the most iconic chocolate bars in America. It has been a staple of American culture since its inception in 1900 and remains a beloved treat to this day. Known for its distinctive silver packaging and smooth chocolate taste, the Hershey Bar has become a cultural icon and a symbol of American indulgence.
Hershey’s Early Beginnings
Milton Hershey began his journey in the chocolate industry in 1873 when he opened his first candy shop in Philadelphia. It wasn’t until 1894 that Hershey founded the Lancaster Caramel Company, which quickly became a success and allowed him to invest in his true passion: chocolate. Hershey began experimenting with chocolate production and in 1900, he introduced the Hershey Bar to the world.
The First Hershey Bar
The first Hershey Bar was made of milk chocolate and was shaped into a rectangular bar weighing 0.6 ounces. The design of the bar was simple but effective, with the word "Hershey" embossed on the front and a small picture of Milton Hershey on the back. The Hershey Bar quickly became a sensation, and it wasn’t long before Hershey had to build a larger factory to keep up with demand.
Hershey’s Method of Production
Hershey’s method of chocolate production was unique in that he used fresh milk from his own dairy farm to create the smooth, creamy taste of his chocolate. He also used a process called conching, which involves grinding the chocolate mixture for an extended period to create a smooth texture. This process allowed Hershey to create a chocolate that was unlike any other on the market at the time.
The Hershey Chocolate Company
In 1905, Hershey founded the Hershey Chocolate Company, which quickly became one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world. The Hershey Company went on to produce a wide range of products, including the famous Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and the Hershey’s Kiss.
Hershey Bar Distribution
The Hershey Bar was distributed through a variety of channels, including grocery stores, candy shops, and vending machines. Hershey also created a network of traveling salesmen who went door-to-door selling the chocolate bars to households across the country.
Hershey Bar Packaging
The Hershey Bar was originally packaged in a simple brown wrapper, but in 1912, Hershey introduced the iconic silver packaging that is still used today. The silver wrapper was designed to keep the chocolate fresh and also helped to distinguish Hershey’s products from those of its competitors.
Hershey Bar Marketing
Hershey was an early pioneer of marketing and advertising, and he used a variety of tactics to promote his products. He sponsored events, created eye-catching advertisements, and even used blimps to fly over major cities with the Hershey logo prominently displayed.
Hershey Bar Ingredients
The ingredients of the Hershey Bar have remained relatively unchanged since its inception. The original bar was made of milk chocolate, sugar, and cocoa butter, and today’s version still contains these same ingredients.
Retail Price of Hershey Bar in 1900
The retail price of the Hershey Bar in 1900 was 5 cents. This may not seem like a lot by today’s standards, but at the time, it was a significant expense. In fact, the Hershey Bar was considered a luxury item and was only available to those who could afford it.
Inflation and Hershey Bar Pricing Today
Due to inflation, the price of the Hershey Bar has increased significantly since 1900. Today, a standard Hershey Bar can be purchased for around $1, which is a far cry from the 5 cent price tag of its early days.
Conclusion: Hershey Bar Legacy
The Hershey Bar has become much more than just a candy bar. It is a cultural icon that has made its way into American history and folklore. Its simple design, smooth taste, and iconic silver packaging have made it a beloved treat for generations, and its legacy continues to endure today. The Hershey Bar may have started as a luxury item, but it has become an everyday indulgence that people around the world enjoy.
