Mary Jane (candy) facts for kids
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Mary Jane candies
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| Type | Candy |
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| Owner | Atkinson Candy Company |
| Country | United States |
| Introduced | 1914 |
| Markets | North America |
| Previous owners |
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Mary Jane is a classic American candy with a unique taste. It's a chewy, taffy-like treat that combines the yummy flavors of peanut butter and molasses. This candy has been around for a very long time, delighting taste buds for over a century!
Contents
What Makes Mary Jane Candy Special?
Mary Jane candies are known for their distinct flavor. They mix the rich taste of peanut butter with the sweet, slightly smoky flavor of molasses. This combination creates a chewy candy that stands out from others. Each piece is a small, rectangular taffy.
A Look at Its Long History
Mary Jane candy was first created in 1914. A candy maker named Robert O. Lord started the company. He decided to name this new candy after his favorite aunt, Mary Jane. How sweet is that?
The candy has always had a special look. Since it first came out, the wrappers have featured the same drawing. It shows a cute "little girl" illustration. This classic design makes Mary Jane candies easy to spot.
Who Has Owned Mary Jane Candy?
Over the years, Mary Jane candy has been made by several different companies. Robert O. Lord sold his company during the tough times of the Great Depression. The Charles N. Miller Company then took over making the candy. Interestingly, Charles Miller first made candy in his own kitchen. This kitchen was once part of the famous home of Paul Revere!
Later, the Stark Candy Company began producing Mary Janes. In 2008, another company called Necco bought Stark Candy. So, Necco started making Mary Janes. They continued to produce the candy in Revere, Massachusetts.
A New Home for Mary Jane
In 2018, Necco faced some difficulties and had to close down. This meant that Mary Jane candies, along with other popular Necco brands, were put up for sale. For a short time, it was unclear who would make Mary Janes next.
The Spangler Candy Company bought many of Necco's brands. However, they didn't plan to make Mary Janes themselves. But don't worry, Mary Jane fans! In October 2019, good news arrived. The Atkinson Candy Company announced they would start making and selling Mary Janes. They began production in 2020 under a special agreement with Spangler. So, this classic candy continues to be enjoyed today!
