The Horse That Inspired America’s Favorite Candy Bar: A 1930s Tale of Love and Loss
In the spring of 1930, as the Great Depression tightened its grip on America, the Mars family suffered a personal loss that would unexpectedly shape confectionery history.
Their beloved racehorse Snickers, who had brought them joy during those increasingly difficult times, passed away at their Milky Way Farm in Tennessee.
The Mars Family’s Equestrian Passion
Frank and Ethel Mars weren’t just candy makers. Their sprawling Tennessee estate, Milky Way Farm, reflected their deep connection to the land and their love of horses.
While their Chicago factory produced sweets that would comfort Americans through the Depression, the farm became home to prize-winning Thoroughbreds and Hereford cattle.
Among these animals, Snickers held a special place in their hearts.
A Tribute in Chocolate
Grief often finds unexpected outlets. For the Mars family, their tribute took the form of a new confection. Just weeks after Snickers’ death, they developed a unique combination of nougat, peanuts, and caramel that would bear their horse’s name.
It was an unusual choice for the time – most candy bars of the era carried their inventors’ names or descriptions of their ingredients.
Beyond the Story
While the candy bar’s name originated as a personal memorial, its timing proved significant. As Americans faced economic hardship, the substantial combination of ingredients made Snickers a filling choice during lean times. The Mars family had inadvertently created not just a memorial to their horse, but a small comfort for a nation in crisis.
Historical Context
The 1930s marked a transformative period in American confectionery. As smaller candy makers struggled through the Depression, companies like Mars found success by offering affordable indulgences.
The introduction of Snickers represented more than just a new product – it reflected how personal stories and national circumstances could intertwine to create something enduring.
The story of Snickers reminds us that behind corporate histories often lie deeply human tales.
A family’s tribute to their beloved horse became woven into the fabric of American snacking culture, though few who enjoy the candy bar today know its bittersweet origins.
