The history of the town of Hershey is unique because it did not emerge spontaneously, but through the vision of one man—confectionery magnate Milton S. Hershey. The official start of the town's history is considered to be 1903, when the foundation of a new chocolate factory was laid on the site of the small settlement of Derry Church. Milton Hershey decided to return to his roots to build not just a production facility, but a complete community.
Development Factors and Geography
The choice of location for the "chocolate town" was driven by pragmatic economic and geographical reasons that became the key to the enterprise's success:
Access to Raw Materials: The surrounding Pennsylvania farmlands ensured a steady supply of fresh milk, which was a key ingredient for producing milk chocolate according to Hershey's recipe.
Transportation Accessibility: Existing railroad lines made it easy to deliver cocoa beans and sugar, as well as to ship finished products across the country.
Labor Resources: The creation of comfortable living conditions attracted loyal and hardworking employees from the surrounding areas.
A Unique Garden City Model
From the very beginning, Hershey developed as a planned "garden city." Unlike the typical industrial towns of that era, the emphasis here was on quality of life. Substantial homes with electricity and indoor plumbing were built for factory employees, a public transportation system (trolleys) was established, and schools and banks were opened. A vital part of the town's early culture was the 1906 opening of a park for workers' recreation, which eventually evolved into the world-famous Hersheypark.
Timeline
Chronology of Hershey's Development
1903 — Milton Hershey begins construction of the chocolate factory in the settlement of Derry Church, laying the foundation for the future town.
1905 — Factory construction is completed, and mass production of milk chocolate, affordable to the general public, is launched.
1906 — Official opening of Hersheypark, originally intended as a recreation area for company employees.
1907 — The famous Hershey’s Kisses are introduced, becoming one of the brand's most recognizable products.
1909 — Milton and Catherine Hershey found the Hershey Industrial School (now the Milton Hershey School) for orphaned boys.
1918 — The founder transfers all his company stock to the school's trust fund, ensuring its financing for decades to come.
1927 — Construction begins on residential neighborhoods and public buildings as part of a large-scale town development plan.
1933 — At the height of the Great Depression, the luxurious The Hotel Hershey opens; its construction provided jobs for many local residents.
1936 — The Hershey Bears professional hockey team is founded, becoming the oldest continuously operating team in the American Hockey League.
1945 — Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the town and company, passes away.
1963 — With the support of the trust, the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center opens, becoming the home of the Penn State College of Medicine.
1973 — Hershey’s Chocolate World opens—a massive visitor center featuring attractions and shops.
2012 — Expansion of production capacity is completed with the opening of the West Hershey Plant, one of the most technologically advanced in the world.
Milestones
Key Stages of the Town's Transformation
The development of Hershey is a prime example of how a single industry can drive the creation of a complex urban ecosystem. Here are the main milestones that defined the modern appearance and economy of "The Sweetest Place on Earth":
Launch of Mass Production (1905). The opening of the factory turned a quiet rural area into a powerful industrial hub. This event not only created thousands of jobs but also stimulated the development of dairy farming throughout Pennsylvania, providing local farmers with a guaranteed market.
Implementation of the "Garden City" Concept (1903–1915). Unlike typical industrial settlements of the time, Hershey was built with brick houses on individual plots, parks, and a developed public transportation system. This urban planning decision set high living standards and attracted skilled workers.
Creation of the Trust Fund (1909–1918). Transferring the controlling interest of the company to the Milton Hershey School was a unique economic precedent. This decision ensured that corporate profits would forever remain in the town, funding education and social projects, which continues to provide regional stability today.
The "Great Building Campaign" (1930s). During the Great Depression, to protect residents from unemployment, Milton Hershey launched a massive construction project. The emergence of the luxurious The Hotel Hershey, the community center, and the sports arena not only provided income for the people but also shaped the town's architectural and cultural identity.
The Scientific and Medical Pivot (1963). The opening of the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center marked a major economic transformation. The town moved away from being a single-industry site centered only on chocolate and became a major regional hub for healthcare and science.
Establishment of the Tourism Brand (1973). The opening of the Hershey’s Chocolate World complex was a turning point for the hospitality industry. From this moment, the town solidified its status as an international family resort, where tourism became an equal economic driver alongside manufacturing.
Architecture
Urban Planning Concept: Industrial Utopia
The architectural landscape of Hershey is unique because it was shaped not by chance, but according to a meticulous master plan. Milton Hershey rejected the idea of the drab, industrial company towns typical of the era, which were often filled with barracks. Instead, he implemented the "garden city" concept. The town planning features wide streets, abundant parklands, and a harmonious blend of manufacturing facilities with residential neighborhoods.
Architectural Eras and Styles
The town's development clearly reflects the stages of its economic growth, where utility sits side-by-side with luxury created for the public good.
Industrial Style and Colonial Revival (1903–1920s). This early stage is characterized by the construction of the chocolate factory itself—a monumental brick building that became the heart of the town. Residential housing for workers was primarily built in the Colonial Revival and Victorian styles: neat brick houses with porches designed to create a cozy family atmosphere.
Mediterranean Revival and Eclecticism (1930s). The Great Depression era became the time of the "Great Building Campaign." To provide residents with jobs, Milton Hershey initiated the construction of grand public buildings. This period is dominated by styles inspired by the founder's travels: Spanish Colonial, Italian Renaissance, and Art Deco elements.
Modernism and Functionalism (1960s – Present). With the development of the Medical Center and the expansion of tourism infrastructure, modern-style buildings appeared in the town. These are characterized by the use of concrete, glass, and strict geometric shapes that meet the functional needs of science and medicine.
Iconic Buildings Shaping the Town's Face
Several key structures define Hershey's visual identity and serve as its primary landmarks:
The Hotel Hershey. Built in 1933 on a hilltop, the hotel is a striking example of the Mediterranean style. Its architecture was inspired by the famous Heliopolis Hotel in Cairo: tiled-roof towers, courtyards with fountains, and mosaic floors create the atmosphere of a European resort in the heart of Pennsylvania.
Hershey Theatre. The crown jewel of the community center, built between 1929 and 1933. The theater's interior is an impressive eclectic mix: an "atmospheric" ceiling imitating the sky and decor that combines elements of Venetian Gothic and Byzantine styles.
The Original Chocolate Factory. A massive red-brick complex with famous smokestacks featuring the name "HERSHEY" in brickwork. It is a classic example of early 20th-century American industrial architecture, symbolizing the power and stability of production.
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. This large-scale complex, opened in the 1960s, is a specimen of institutional modernism. Its clean lines and functionality contrast with the romantic architecture of the 1930s, marking a new era in the town's history.
Notable People
Prominent Figures of Hershey
The history of Hershey is inextricably linked to the people who built its industrial power, shaped its social environment, or brought fame to the town through their global achievements.
Milton Snavely Hershey (1857–1945) Founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company and Philanthropist
The man for whom the town is named. He not only revolutionized dairy chocolate production, making it accessible to the masses, but also built a unique urban infrastructure for his workers. His greatest legacy is considered to be the creation of the Milton Hershey School for orphaned children, to which he bequeathed his entire fortune.
Catherine "Kitty" Hershey (1872–1915) Social Activist and Benefactor
Milton Hershey's wife, who played a key role in the town's social life. It was her idea to create the school for orphaned boys, which became the family's primary charitable project. Her kindness and support largely defined the town's humanitarian direction.
Harry Burnett (H.B.) Reese (1879–1956) Inventor and Entrepreneur
A former employee of the Hershey dairy farm who, inspired by Milton's success, started his own business in his basement. He created the famous Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. His company eventually merged with the Hershey empire, and the product became one of the best-selling treats in the U.S.
William Murrie (1873–1950) President of the Hershey Chocolate Company
Milton Hershey's right-hand man, who led the company for over 40 years. He is known not only as a talented manager but also as the partner of Bruce Murrie (son of the Mars founder) in creating the M&M’s brand (the second "M" stands for Murrie), which originally used Hershey's chocolate for production.
Richard Winters (1918–2011) U.S. Army Major and WWII Veteran
The legendary commander of "Easy Company," whose story inspired the series "Band of Brothers." After the war, Winters settled in Hershey, where he lived and worked for many years, becoming a respected member of the local community.
Samuel Hinkle (1900–1984) Chemist and Company President
Played a decisive role during the 1940s by leading the development of "Ration D"—a special heat-resistant chocolate for the American military. Thanks to his work, the company received the prestigious "Army-Navy E Award" for its contribution to production excellence.
Christian Pulisic (born 1998) Professional Soccer Player
A Hershey native who became a global soccer star. Having played for leading European clubs, he became one of the most successful American players in history, earning the nickname "Captain America." His success brings international attention to the town's athletic heritage.