Henry Isaac Rowntree facts for kids

Henry Isaac Rowntree (1838–1883) was a clever businessman. He started Rowntree's, which became one of the biggest candy companies in the United Kingdom.

Starting a Sweet Business

Henry Rowntree learned a lot about business from his father. He worked in his father's shop in York. After his father passed away in 1860, Henry went to work for the Tuke family. They also had a shop in York.

In June 1862, Henry Isaac decided to buy the parts of the Tuke family's business that made chocolate, cocoa, and chicory. He started his own company. He had about twelve people working for him.

Quality and Growth

Henry followed special rules called Quaker principles. This meant he always wanted to make the very best quality products. He believed in being honest and fair in business.

In August 1864, Henry bought an old factory building. It used to be a place where metal was melted and shaped, called a foundry. He built a new factory there for his chocolate business.

However, Henry got busy with another project. He started to produce and print a newspaper called the Yorkshire Weekly Press. This took a lot of his time and attention away from his chocolate company.

A Family Partnership

Because his chocolate business was not doing as well, Henry asked his brother, Joseph, to join him. In June 1869, Joseph became a full partner in the company. They renamed the business H. I. Rowntree & Co.

The two brothers worked together very well. The company grew bigger and stronger. Henry Isaac Rowntree passed away in 1883. But the business he started continued to be very successful.

Henry's Family Life

In February 1868, Henry Isaac Rowntree got married. He married Harriet Selina Osborn in Scarborough.