You probably already know about the fun, sugary heart-shaped candies with loving messages, but do you know the history of these treats? Conversation hearts originated in the mid-19th century, and their history is quite a bit more complicated than you might think.

In 1847, a pharmacist named Oliver R. invented a machine to more efficiently make treats that masked the taste of medicine. Eventually, the pharmacist started a candy company with his brothers, which was known as Chase and Company. While thinking of new ways to market their products, Daniel Chase developed a machine that helped print messages on their candy. Around 1901, Chase and Company merged with several other candy companies, creating the New England Confectionery Company. This company was also known as Necco throughout the 20th century, up until its bankruptcy in 2018.

Originally, these sweet treats were printed onto candies of various shapes and sizes. Surprisingly, the iconic heart-shaped variety finally debuted in 1902. The earliest hearts were much larger, with plenty of space for relationship advice, saying things like, “Married in White, you have chosen right.” The longer pieces of advice slowly disappeared as the hearts shrank in size, becoming smaller phrases such as “Be Mine” and “Kiss Me.”

While Necco was declared bankrupt in 2018, Spangler Candy acquired the company and began to produce the heart candy once again in 2020. The treat was immediately declared the most popular non-chocolate Valentine’s Day treat.

Cites – 

https://wordsmarts.com

https://www.countryliving.com