Milton Snavely Hershey

Milton Snavely Hershey (September 13, 1857 – October 13, 1945) was an American confectioner, philanthropist, and entrepreneur who founded The Hershey Company, one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world. Born in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, Hershey grew up in a Mennonite family and had limited formal education, which led him to pursue apprenticeships and entrepreneurial ventures.

1. Early life and career: As a young man, Hershey apprenticed with a confectioner in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He later started multiple candy businesses, including a caramel company, but faced several failures. After a trip to the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Hershey became inspired to focus on chocolate production.
2. Founding of The Hershey Company: In 1894, Milton S. Hershey founded The Hershey Chocolate Company, initially as a subsidiary of his Lancaster Caramel Company. He sold the caramel company in 1900 and used the proceeds to concentrate on chocolate production. Hershey built a state-of-the-art factory in his hometown, Derry Township, which later became the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania. His innovative use of fresh milk in the production of milk chocolate allowed him to create a more affordable product that became widely popular in the United States.
3. Philanthropy: Milton Hershey was deeply committed to philanthropy throughout his life. In 1909, he established the Hershey Industrial School, a vocational school for orphaned boys. The school, now known as the Milton Hershey School, continues to provide free education and residential care to underprivileged children. In 1918, Hershey transferred the majority of his wealth, including control of his company, to the Hershey Trust Company, ensuring the long-term financial stability of the school.
4. Hershey Park and other ventures: To provide leisure opportunities for his employees and their families, Hershey founded Hershey Park in 1906. The park has since grown into a major amusement park and tourist attraction. Hershey also invested in other businesses, such as the Hershey Electric Company, which supplied power to the town and its facilities.
5. Personal life: Milton Hershey was married to Catherine "Kitty" Sweeney, but the couple did not have any children. Catherine passed away in 1915, and Hershey never remarried. He was known for his modest lifestyle, dedication to his employees and community, and his strong work ethic.

Milton S. Hershey's impact on the chocolate industry and his philanthropic legacy have left a lasting mark on American business and social history. His innovative approach to chocolate manufacturing transformed the product from a luxury item to an affordable treat, and his commitment to improving the lives of others continues to benefit thousands of children through the Milton Hershey School.