Civil War Time Capsule

Civil War soldiers did eat sugars and sweets — for many, they proved a vital part of their survival. These early forms of civil war era candy were important both practically and emotionally. Some were used as medicine. Others as a welcome break from other foods. Some soldiers made favorites for themselves at the start of the war, such as molasses pulls. Hospitals and other organizations sent packages, many items such as cacao and sugar, recommended by the new U.S. Sanitary Commission. Selections like these are represented today in our civil war candy box, offering a rare glimpse into the flavors of the past. Cane sugar was available at first, replaced by beet sugar and others able to grow in cool climates. Most commonly, sugar was prized and hard to find. Increasingly throughout the war, soldiers bought or found dried fruit and other goods when foraging. Handmade cream filberts, with their creamy filling and crunchy filberts, were a coveted treat, reflecting the era's growing passion for candy-making and simple indulgences. Many of these treats reflect the beginnings of what we now know as classic 1800s candy.