Description

The History of Retro Candy

Fun times, fun places, and fun candy go together and have since the mid-1800s to make what we now call Retro candy. Their purpose were for fun and their audience were grown-ups and kids, depending on the type. They were tasty, fun, and affordable – available to everyone who wanted them for only a penny – or even less – a piece.

What were some of the earliest Retro Candies?

Made in apothecaries and derived from medicines (yes, medicines!) some of the earliest were hard candies such as stain glass, usually made at home. These transitioned into memory-packed sour balls, strawberry-filled candies, and butterscotch, which doubled as a way to freshen the breath, sooth scratchy throats, and polish off a delicious meal. They were also standard fare in grandmothers’ purses for generations. Today, they’re  perfect for car rides during vacation, office candy bowls, and a bit of refreshment to enjoy during the day – no matter where you are.

When were gummy candies made?

Gummy candy is without a doubt a favorite from birthday parties to snacks. The first iteration was actually Turkish delight (a medicine for sore throat around 900 CE) that morphed into  gum drops (1805) then jelly beans in the 1860s, and ended up as gummy bears in Germany, in 1922.  Other variations have appeared, from colas to sharks and countless more. All about fun!

When did people start eating candy at movies?

Among the most wonderful and varied displays of candies was at the MOVIES! During the Depression, movie theater owners realized they could recoup some of the losses due to the economy by selling popcorn, then other treats such as chocolate covered raisins, bridge mix (also used for card games) Snow Caps, Mike n’ Ikes, and many more!  Tickets and concession prices were low enough so they knew sales were likely to happen, and they did. Today, much of the “movie theater” candy is enjoyed at home. The same fun, flavor, and memories as before.