Milton Hershey’s Legacy: How the Chocolate Founder Opened a School for Orphans in 1909
In 1909, Milton S. Hershey—the visionary behind Hershey’s Chocolate—founded the Hershey Industrial School, a boarding school dedicated to educating and sheltering orphaned boys. This act of generosity became one of his most enduring legacies, proving that his success was about more than just chocolate.
The Man Behind Hershey’s Chocolate
Born in 1857 in Pennsylvania, Milton Hershey faced multiple business failures before finding success with caramel, which he later sold to focus on chocolate. In 1903, he established the Hershey Chocolate Company in Derry Township, revolutionizing America’s chocolate industry. But Hershey’s true passion was philanthropy—especially helping children in need.
Why Hershey Founded a School for Orphans
Unable to have children of their own, Milton and his wife, Catherine (Kitty), turned their heartbreak into hope. In 1909, they opened the Hershey Industrial School (now the Milton Hershey School) for orphaned boys, funded entirely by Hershey’s wealth. The school provided free housing, education, and vocational training in farming and trades.
Key Features of the Original School:
- No tuition fees – Fully funded by Hershey
- Vocational focus – Taught agriculture and practical skills
- Expansive campus – Included dorms, classrooms, and workshops
How the School Evolved Over Time
After Kitty’s death in 1915, Hershey donated his entire Hershey Chocolate Company fortune to the school. Today, the Milton Hershey School serves over 2,000 students from low-income families (not just orphans), offering:
– Free tuition, housing, and meals
– Healthcare and college scholarships
– A co-educational environment
Since 1909, the school has helped more than 11,000 children build brighter futures.
Hershey’s Broader Philanthropic Impact
Beyond the school, Hershey built a model company town in Hershey, Pennsylvania, with:
– Affordable housing
– Public transportation
– Recreational facilities
His pioneering corporate social responsibility set a standard for businesses today.
Why Milton Hershey’s Story Still Matters
In a world where corporations face ethical scrutiny, Hershey’s legacy proves that business success and social good can go hand-in-hand. His school remains a powerful example of how wealth can transform lives.
Final Thought
Next time you enjoy a Hershey’s chocolate bar, remember the man who turned his sweet success into a sweeter future for thousands of children.
