Milton S. Hershey

“One is only happy in proportion as he makes others happy.” Milton S. Hershey

Beyond the coasters and the characters, and - of course - the world’s most famous chocolate bar, Milton S. Hershey built a legacy forged from a resilience in the face of early failures, and an unparalleled commitment to community.

Early Life

Milton Snavely Hershey was born September 13, 1857, in Derry Township, a small rural Pennsylvania farming region. Milton finished the 4th grade before his family’s frequent relocations made it impossible for him to continue schooling.

Milton’s first job was not in confections, but in a printer’s shop. In 1871 at a German language newspaper in Gap, PA near Lancaster, Milton experienced the first of many professional setbacks as he was fired after just a few months.

Fortunately for all who love Hershey’s candy, Milton’s next job was an apprenticeship with a Lancaster candy maker. At Royer’s Ice Cream Parlor, Milton waited tables, washed dishes, and made deliveries before eventually learning the art of candy making.

Milton Hershey's Parents

Failure Before Fortune

In his mid-20s, Milton Hershey opened a candy business in Philadelphia. After six years of setbacks, the business closed in bankruptcy. He would try again – and fail – in New York before he founded the successful Lancaster Caramel Company in 1886. While his caramel business was booming, Mr. Hershey’s trip to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair would change the course of candy-making history. There, a demonstration from a German chocolate maker piqued Hershey’s interest and the rest – as they say – is sweet Hershey history.

Timeline of Treats

1894 – Mr. Hershey establishes the Hershey Chocolate Company.

1900 – The first Hershey’s Chocolate Bar is sold.

1905 – The original Hershey’s Chocolate Factory is completed in Derry Township (Hershey), PA.

1907 – The first HERSHEY’S KISSES are made using a unique stamping machine.

1927 – The Girl Scouts of America publish the first known recipe for S’mores. 

1963 – H.B. Reese’s estate sells the peanut butter cup business to the Hershey Chocolate Company. 

Of course, there are many more treats that have become worldwide treasures. But for all of the success that came with his delicious milk chocolates, Mr. Hershey’s most profound legacy is rooted in his commitment to the town’s workers and his founding of a school for orphaned boys.

Investing in his Workers

Milton Hershey believed in creating community spaces and opportunities for his workers and the townspeople to enjoy outside of life in the chocolate factory. In 1906 “Hershey Park” opened to the public as a spot for picnics and recreation. Today, “Hersheypark” spans 121 acres and is a world class destination for coaster enthusiasts and anyone seeking family-friendly rides and entertainment. 

The Great Building Campaign

During America’s Great Depression, Mr. Hershey was committed to keeping the townspeople employed. He launched a building campaign that brought us The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Theatre, and events facilities that are now Hersheypark Arena and Hersheypark Stadium.

Lean more about “Historic Places that Milt Built.”

Historic Hotel Hershey

Kitty

Kitty Hershey

Milton and Catherine “Kitty” Hershey were married on May 25, 1898. Catherine was active in charitable circles and played an important role in the couple’s philanthropic legacy. The couple could not have children of their own, but invested selflessly in the future of others by founding a school for orphaned boys in 1909.

Did you know? What is now the sprawling 20-acre Hershey Gardens started as Milton's request for " a small garden of rose" for Kitty. 

Milton Hershey School

The Milton Hershey School, first called the Hershey Industrial School, opened in 1910 and provided a stable home life, rigorous academics, and agricultural and vocational disciplines.

The couple established a Deed of Trust to ensure that that school would be funded in perpetuity. The generosity and philanthropy of Milton and Catherine Hershey has touched thousands of lives, and their dreams endure today for more than 2,000 students a year who receive a world-class education and a life-changing experience at no cost.

 

Milton Hershey and MHS Kids

Founder's Hall Milton Hershey School

 

The school’s Founders Hall is home to the school's Visitors Center. Guests can learn about the school's history as a moving program is projected onto the curved second tier of the rotunda. The Visitors Center is open Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 3 PM. 

Did you know: The Hershey Trust is supported through profits of The Hershey Company and Hershey Entertainment & Resorts properties like Hersheypark, The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, and other. Every time you enjoy a trip to Hersheypark or your favorite HERSHEY’S treat, you’re helping to support Milton and Catherine’s ideals of helping children succeed.

Learn More About Milton

The Hershey Story Museum, the Museum on Chocolate Avenue, tells the story of Milton Hershey from those first failures to the tremendous success of his candy company and on through the list of ways he impacted his community through innovation and philanthropy. 

Take a tour on Hershey Trolley Works. Ride through Hershey to see and hear more about Mr. Hershey's life. Visit the Hershey History Center to learn more about Milton Hershey and more about the people and places that thrive in the town that bears his name. 

Historical Photos Courtesy of Hershey Community Archives, Hershey, PA.

The front facade of the Hershey Story Museum