A Sweet History: From Ancient Times to Modern Day
Chocolate has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations like the Mayans and Aztecs. However, it wasn’t always the sweet confection we know today. The Mayans and Aztecs consumed chocolate as a bitter drink made from cacao beans, often mixed with spices and water. This drink was believed to have energizing and even medicinal properties, and it played an important role in religious rituals and social ceremonies.
It wasn’t until the 16th century that chocolate made its way to Europe, where it quickly gained popularity among royalty and the elite. European chocolatiers began adding sugar and milk to the cacao mixture, transforming it into the sweet treat we recognize today. By the 19th century, advancements in production methods allowed chocolate to be mass-produced and made widely available to the public.
Milton S. Hershey: The Man Who Made Chocolate Accessible
No discussion of chocolate’s history would be complete without mentioning Milton S. Hershey, the man responsible for making chocolate an everyday treat for people around the world. Born on September 13, 1857, Hershey had a humble beginning, growing up on a small farm in Pennsylvania. After several failed business ventures, he founded the Hershey Chocolate Company in 1894, determined to bring affordable, high-quality chocolate to the masses.
Hershey’s big break came with the development of the Hershey Milk Chocolate Bar in 1900. Using fresh milk from local dairy farms, Hershey was able to create a creamy, smooth chocolate bar that was both delicious and affordable. His vision wasn’t just about making chocolate; it was about creating an experience that could be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their social standing or income.
Milton Hershey also built the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania, around his chocolate factory, creating a thriving community for his employees. Today, his legacy lives on in the town, the Hershey Company, and the countless chocolate treats that bear his name.
Why We Should Treat Ourselves on September 13
International Chocolate Day, celebrated annually on Milton S. Hershey’s birthday, is the perfect opportunity to indulge in your favorite chocolate creations – and we love The Chocolate Shoppe by Sweet Images right here in Gardnerville! Their chocolate is free of hydrogenated oils and contains no artificial flavors or colors so the flavor, texture and aroma will make you swoon.
So why should we take the time to treat ourselves on this day? Here are a few reasons:
- Chocolate Brings Joy
There’s a reason chocolate is often associated with celebrations, holidays, and special moments. Whether it’s a Rocky Road Bark made of dark chocolate or a decadent truffle, chocolate has a way of brightening our spirits and making any day feel special. - It’s Good for You!
Believe it or not, chocolate—particularly dark chocolate (try the dark chocolate Lake Tahoe!) —has some surprising health benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Plus, it contains compounds that can boost your mood, making it the perfect treat for a pick-me-up. - A Tribute to Milton S. Hershey
Hershey’s legacy goes far beyond chocolate. His dedication to quality, community, and philanthropy is something to be admired. What better way to honor his birthday than by indulging in the very treat he made so widely accessible? - Celebrate with Local Treats
Here at Carson Valley Meats, we’re lucky to work with The Chocolate Shoppe by Sweet Inspirations in Gardnerville. On International Chocolate Day, why not treat yourself to something special from this local gem? Their handmade chocolates and confections are the perfect way to celebrate the day and support local artisans. Our favorite is Ashley’s Bordeaux Dark Chocolate – Lynn says it’s their best seller and we know why! Rich and creamy brown sugar, mocha butter cream, wrapped in dark chocolate and topped with real chocolate sprinkles…makes our mouths water just thinking about them (plus, who doesn’t love sprinkles?)!
The Chocolate Holidays: More Days to Celebrate
If one day of celebrating chocolate isn’t enough, don’t worry—there are plenty of other opportunities to indulge. The U.S. National Confectioners Association lists several chocolate-themed holidays throughout the year, including:
- Chocolate Day (July 7)
- National Chocolate Day (October 28)
- International Chocolate Day (September 13)
- National Milk Chocolate Day, National White Chocolate Day, and National Cocoa Day
Each of these holidays gives us an excuse to celebrate our love of chocolate and enjoy the sweet indulgence that has been a part of human culture for centuries.
Treat Yourself on International Chocolate Day
As September 13 approaches, we encourage you to take a moment to savor the rich history of chocolate and the contributions of Milton S. Hershey. Whether you’re biting into a classic Hershey’s bar, sampling handmade confections from The Chocolate Shoppe by Sweet Images (check out our selection!), or simply enjoying a hot cocoa, International Chocolate Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of life’s sweetest pleasures.
At Carson Valley Meats, we believe in celebrating the simple joys in life, and chocolate is definitely at the top of that list. So go ahead—treat yourself, share a sweet moment with loved ones, and remember that chocolate is more than just a treat. It’s a tradition that brings people together.