SHIRK

Shirk's Homemade Candies' founder, Elwood "Bert" Shirk, started the business in the heart of the Depression. In 1932 he purchased The Caramel Crisp Shop in downtown Marion, Ohio. Bert left a so-called secure job at the Susquehanna Silk Mill to pursue his dream to be an independent businessman. In those days all businesses and entertainment were located in the downtown area. One of the trade secrets was to cook the caramel syrup about the time the movie theaters let out, the aroma would flow into the streets, tempting customers in to buy. Bert popped his own popcorn and cooked the syrup in a copper kettle. This same kettle is still used today after three generations of confectioners... Bert Shirk learned to make chocolates in the 1940's from a candy maker, Fred Chessy, of Richwood, Ohio. While also owning a sandwich shop in downtown Marion where the first homemade candies were made and retailed. This location was a teenage hang out during World War II. The candy cases that are used..

Also known as: Shirk's Homemade Candies

Primary location: Marion United States