New England Confectionery Company Factory

CambridgeNeccoWaferBldg25June07

New England Confectionery Company Factory (NECCO) was an iconic American confectionery manufacturer. Founded in 1847, it was the oldest continuously operating candy company in the United States until its closure in 2018. NECCO was renowned for its wide range of candy products, including the NECCO Wafers, Sweethearts Conversation Hearts, and the Clark Bar. The factory was not only a significant part of America's industrial history but also a beloved element of its cultural heritage.

History

The New England Confectionery Company was established in 1847 by Oliver Chase, who invented the first American candy machine, a lozenge cutter. This innovation marked the beginning of the mechanization of candy production, making NECCO a pioneer in the confectionery industry. Over the years, NECCO expanded its product line and became famous for its NECCO Wafers, a product that became synonymous with the company.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, NECCO continued to grow, moving into a large factory in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which became a landmark. The company played a significant role during World War II, producing rations for the U.S. military due to the durability of its wafers.

Despite its historical significance and loyal customer base, NECCO faced financial difficulties in the 21st century. In 2018, after several ownership changes and attempts to save the company, NECCO shut down its operations, and its assets were sold at auction.

Products

NECCO's product line was diverse, with several iconic candies that became cultural staples. The most famous of these was the NECCO Wafers, thin, disc-shaped candies that came in various flavors. Another popular product was the Sweethearts Conversation Hearts, especially popular during Valentine's Day for their romantic messages. The Clark Bar, a chocolate bar with a peanut butter center, was also a notable product, showcasing NECCO's versatility in candy production.

Impact

The New England Confectionery Company Factory was more than just a manufacturing site; it was a symbol of American industrial innovation and cultural nostalgia. NECCO's candies were a part of American life for over a century, evoking memories of childhood and simpler times for many people. The factory itself, with its distinctive architecture and history, was a landmark in the Cambridge area.

The closure of NECCO was met with sadness by many who grew up with its candies. It highlighted the challenges faced by traditional manufacturing businesses in adapting to the modern economic landscape. However, the legacy of NECCO and its products continues to live on, with some of its brands being acquired by other companies and still produced today.

See Also

• Candy making
• History of confectionery
• Economic history of the United States

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