Hadji Bey facts for kids
Hadji Bey is a type of Turkish delight candy. It was first made in Cork, Ireland. Now, it is made in County Kildare, Ireland. The company that makes it now is linked to Urney Chocolates.
The Story of Hadji Bey
Starting in Cork
The original Hadji Bey candy was created by Harutun and Esther Batmazian. They were an Armenian couple. They came to Cork in 1902. They had left their home country because of difficult times.
In 1902, they showed their sweet treats at the Great Cork International Exhibition. People loved their candy! The Batmazians started their business in Cork city. It became very successful.
Facing Challenges
After WWI, the family faced a tough time. Some soldiers returning from war misunderstood who the Batmazians were. They thought the family was Turkish. This led to an incident where their shop was burned.
Harutun Batmazian then moved his shop. It went from Lower Glanmire Road to McCurtain Street. He worked hard to explain his family's Armenian background to everyone. The company also shared their story in a leaflet. It said that in 1915, a soldier insulted Esther in their McCurtain Street shop. This misunderstanding made Harutun create a leaflet. It clearly stated his Armenian origins.
A Popular Treat
The Hadji Bey sweet became a favorite in the area. The business even sent its candies to famous stores. These included Harrods in London and Bloomingdale's in New York. Their delicious sweets were even sent to Buckingham Palace!
The front of the Batmazian shop on McCurtain Street had a special sign. It read: Hadji Bey et Cie. This made the shop feel exciting and international. It had a touch of French style.
Hadji Bey Today
Esther Batmazian passed away in the 1940s. Her husband, Harutun, later moved to the United States. Their son, Eddie Batmazian, took over the business. He ran it until he retired in 1970. After that, the business started to slow down.
In 2010, UHC Confectionery bought the Hadji Bey product. They started making it in Newbridge. You can still find Hadji Bey sweets for sale. They are sold at the English Market in Cork.
