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Milton Hershey: An Extraordinary Life of Wealth, Empire, and Utopian Dreams

Jamie Blair

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Published in Hershey: Milton S Hershey S Extraordinary Life Of Wealth Empire And Utopian Dreams

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Milton Hershey was born on September 13, 1857, in Derry Church, Pennsylvania. His father, Henry, worked as a farmer, while his mother, Veronica Fannie, managed the household. Milton's early life was marked by financial struggles, but he possessed an unyielding determination and a keen eye for opportunity.

At the age of 14, Milton left home to apprentice as a printer in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. However, his passion lay in confectionery, and he soon moved to Philadelphia to pursue his culinary dreams. In 1876, at the age of 19, he founded his first candy-making business, L.S. Hershey and Brother.

Despite early setbacks, Hershey persevered, and in 1886, he established Hershey Chocolate Company in Lancaster. The company initially produced caramels and other candies, but Hershey's true calling lay in the world of chocolate.

Hershey: Milton S. Hershey's Extraordinary Life of Wealth, Empire, and Utopian Dreams

by Michael D'Antonio

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18937 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	320 pages

In 1894, Hershey relocated his business to Derry Church, where he had access to fresh milk, an essential ingredient in chocolate production. With his innovative ideas and meticulous attention to quality, Hershey began producing high-quality, affordable chocolate that quickly gained widespread popularity.

As the demand for Hershey's chocolate grew, so did his business empire. He purchased immense tracts of land around Derry Church and established a vertically integrated operation, controlling every aspect of chocolate production from cocoa bean harvesting to distribution.

By the early 1900s, Hershey Chocolate Company had become one of the largest and most successful confectionery companies in the world. Its iconic chocolate bars, such as the Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar and Hershey's Kisses, became beloved by people of all ages.

Amidst his business success, Milton Hershey never forgot his humble beginnings. He was deeply concerned about the welfare of his employees and the community around him. In 1909, he established the Hershey Industrial School, a residential vocational school for orphans and underprivileged youth.

Hershey envisioned creating a "model community" where his employees could live and work in harmony. In 1918, he began planning the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania, which was designed to be a self-sufficient, utopian society. The town featured modern housing, public parks, and a wide range of amenities.

Hershey's philanthropy extended beyond Hershey, Pennsylvania. He supported numerous educational, cultural, and charitable organizations. In 1935, he established the Milton Hershey School, a world-renowned boarding school for disadvantaged children.

Milton Hershey's legacy as a businessman and philanthropist is unparalleled. He built a chocolate empire that became a global icon and used his wealth to create a better world for countless individuals.

Hershey died on October 13, 1945, at the age of 88. He left behind a vast fortune and a lasting legacy of innovation, philanthropy, and community spirit.

Image 1: Milton Hershey, founder of Hershey Chocolate Company, sits in his office, surrounded by chocolate-making equipment.

Image 2: A panoramic view of Hershey, Pennsylvania, showing the town's iconic chocolate factory and surrounding community.

Image 3: Students at the Milton Hershey School, founded by Hershey to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children.

Milton Hershey's life was an extraordinary journey marked by humble beginnings, unwavering determination, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world. His success as a businessman and his legacy as a philanthropist continue to inspire generations to pursue their dreams and strive for a better future for all.

Hershey: Milton S. Hershey's Extraordinary Life of Wealth, Empire, and Utopian Dreams

by Michael D'Antonio

4.6 out of 5