With the Fourth of July just passed and everyone enjoying waterfront strolls, cookouts and all the summer traditions, I fell down a fun little rabbit hole this morning — the “Massachusetts Food Hall of Fame.” We all know our big hitters: Toll House cookies born in Whitman, Fig Newtons created in Cambridge, and the cranberry empire that practically defines the state. But here’s one I didn’t expect to add to the list:
Junior Mints are made right here in Massachusetts.
A Minty Massachusetts Surprise
Not invented here — but still produced here, and have been for 75 years. That’s a long time for a candy to stay put.
Back in 1949, the James O. Welch Company released Junior Mints and named them after a popular Broadway show called Junior Miss. Welch was based in Cambridge, and at the time the area was known as Confectioner’s Row.
In the mid‑1940s, more than 65 candy companies operated in Cambridge. Sixty‑five! Today, only one remains — the Junior Mints plant, still tucked into an unassuming building near Central Square.
You’ve probably driven past it without realizing you were passing the birthplace of movie‑theater minty goodness.
The Last Candy Maker Standing
The factory is now owned by Tootsie Roll Industries, who took over the brand in 1993. And despite its quiet little presence, the place is busy: it turns out over 15 million Junior Mints every single day.
They also make Charleston Chews and Sugar Babies, so if you grew up with those in your Halloween bag, there’s a good chance they came from Cambridge too.
Mint Cousins… But Not Related
And yes — even though Junior Mints and York Peppermint Patties look like cousins, they’re not related. York started in Pennsylvania and eventually landed under Hershey. Massachusetts gets the minty chocolate pillow; Pennsylvania gets the minty chocolate puck.
A Sweet Addition to the Massachusetts Legacy
So now, when you’re grabbing snacks for the parade or the fireworks, you can toss a box of Junior Mints into your cart and say you’re supporting local history. Toll House cookies, Fig Newtons, and Junior Mints — three very different treats, all tied to our little corner of New England.
Not bad for a state that’s only 190 miles long. I guess I know where my sweet tooth comes from!
