by Lauren Ciriac Wenger The 1800s was a time of incredible development, expansion, and change in America. Important historic events occurred during this century—the Library of Congress was established, the … Continue reading A Small Piece of the Past: Relic Hunting and Souvenir Collecting in the 1800s →

By Lauren Ciriac Wenger Here at The Hershey Story we are big fans of Valentine’s Day, because… chocolate! Chocolate is arguably the most gifted item on Valentine’s Day, along with … Continue reading Vintage Valentines →

By Lauren Ciriac Wenger During the late 1800s and early 1900s, “patent medicines” in the form of elixirs, salves, and pills were at their height of popularity. These medicinal concoctions … Continue reading The Cure to All of Your Troubles: Patent Medicines at the Turn of the Century →

By Lauren Ciriac Wenger Since the 15th century, individuals have created needlepoint samplers to demonstrate or practice their embroidery skills.  Produced throughout Europe, the craft traveled to the New World … Continue reading And This You See, Remember Me →

By Lauren Ciriac Wenger Easter is a popular holiday throughout the world and second only to Halloween for candy purchases in the United States. But did you know that Pennsylvania … Continue reading From Osterhase to Chocolate Eggs: Easter in Pennsylvania →

By Lauren Ciriac Wenger In 1935, Milton Hershey purchased a collection that changed the size and scope of his museum, which had until that point featured only American Indian artifacts. … Continue reading Delightful Dishware: A Sampling from The Hershey Story’s Ceramics Collection →

This patchwork quilt was made and owned by a woman named Irene who lived in South Carolina during the early 1900s. The quilt was passed through her descendants to granddaughter … Continue reading How Is This Quilt Connected to Hershey? The Answer May Surprise You. →

By Lauren Ciriac Wenger This past May marked 120 years since the opening day of the World’s Columbian Exposition, also known as the Chicago World’s Fair. The fair, held in … Continue reading A Fair to Remember – Souvenirs from the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 →