Conversation hearts, those small, pastel-colored candies with sweet messages, have been a staple of Valentine’s Day celebrations for over a century. But have you ever wondered what these iconic treats were originally called? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of conversation hearts, exploring their origins, evolution, and the story behind their original name.
A Brief History of Conversation Hearts
Conversation hearts were first introduced in the mid-19th century by Daniel Chase, the brother of Oliver Chase, the founder of the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO). The company, which was established in 1847, was known for producing a variety of candies, including the popular NECCO Wafers.
In 1866, Daniel Chase developed a machine that could press and cut out small, heart-shaped candies with messages on them. The original conversation hearts were called “Hub Wafers,” and they featured phrases like “Married in White, You Have Chosen Right” and “How Long Shall I Have to Wait?”
The Evolution of Conversation Hearts
Over the years, conversation hearts underwent several changes in terms of their design, flavor, and messaging. In the early 20th century, NECCO began producing conversation hearts with more modern phrases, such as “Be Mine” and “Kiss Me.” The company also introduced new flavors, including cherry, blue raspberry, and lemon.
In the 1950s and 1960s, conversation hearts became a staple of Valentine’s Day celebrations, with children and adults alike exchanging them as a symbol of affection. The candies were often packaged in small boxes or bags, and they featured a variety of messages, from romantic phrases to playful jokes.
The Impact of Conversation Hearts on Popular Culture
Conversation hearts have had a significant impact on popular culture, with references in music, film, and literature. In the 1960s, the candies were featured in a popular song by the Shangri-Las, “Give Him a Great Big Kiss.” In the 1980s, conversation hearts were referenced in the film “Sixteen Candles,” in which the main character, Samantha, receives a box of conversation hearts from her crush.
In literature, conversation hearts have been referenced in works by authors such as Judy Blume and R.L. Stine. The candies have also been featured in various forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
The Original Name of Conversation Hearts: Hub Wafers
So, what were conversation hearts originally called? As mentioned earlier, the candies were first introduced as “Hub Wafers” in the mid-19th century. The name “Hub Wafers” referred to the fact that the candies were produced in Boston, which was known as the “Hub” of the universe.
The name “Hub Wafers” was used until the early 20th century, when NECCO began marketing the candies as “Conversation Hearts.” The new name was designed to emphasize the candies’ unique feature: the messages printed on them.
Why the Name Change?
So, why did NECCO decide to change the name of the candies from “Hub Wafers” to “Conversation Hearts”? There are a few theories:
- One theory is that the name “Hub Wafers” was too regional, and NECCO wanted a name that would appeal to a wider audience.
- Another theory is that the name “Conversation Hearts” was more descriptive, and it emphasized the unique feature of the candies.
- A third theory is that the name change was designed to capitalize on the growing popularity of Valentine’s Day celebrations in the early 20th century.
Regardless of the reason, the name change from “Hub Wafers” to “Conversation Hearts” was a successful one, and the candies have remained a beloved treat for over a century.
Conclusion
In conclusion, conversation hearts have a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. From their origins as “Hub Wafers” to their evolution into the conversation hearts we know and love today, these candies have remained a staple of Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic phrases or the more modern messages, conversation hearts are a treat that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. So, next time you’re tempted to indulge in a conversation heart (or two, or three…), remember the rich history behind these iconic candies.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1847 | New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) is founded by Oliver Chase. |
| 1866 | Daniel Chase develops a machine that can press and cut out small, heart-shaped candies with messages on them. |
| Early 20th century | NECCO begins producing conversation hearts with more modern phrases and introduces new flavors. |
| 1950s and 1960s | Conversation hearts become a staple of Valentine’s Day celebrations. |
By understanding the history and evolution of conversation hearts, we can appreciate the significance of these iconic candies and the role they play in our cultural heritage.
What are Conversation Hearts?
Conversation Hearts are small, heart-shaped candies with sweet messages or phrases printed on them. They are traditionally exchanged during Valentine’s Day and have become a popular symbol of the holiday. The candies have a long history, dating back to the mid-19th century when they were first created by Oliver Chase, the founder of the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO).
Conversation Hearts were originally called “hub wafers” and were designed to be a more affordable alternative to traditional Valentine’s Day cards. The candies quickly gained popularity, and by the early 20th century, they had become a staple of American Valentine’s Day celebrations. Today, Conversation Hearts remain a beloved treat, with millions of candies produced each year.
What was the original name of Conversation Hearts?
The original name of Conversation Hearts was “hub wafers.” This name was given to the candies by Oliver Chase, the founder of NECCO, who created them in the mid-19th century. The name “hub wafers” referred to the fact that the candies were produced in Boston, which was known as the “hub” of the United States at the time.
The name “hub wafers” was used for many years, but it eventually fell out of favor. In the early 20th century, the candies began to be marketed as “Conversation Hearts,” a name that was meant to evoke the idea of romantic conversation and sweet nothings. Today, the name “Conversation Hearts” is synonymous with Valentine’s Day and is recognized around the world.
Who created Conversation Hearts?
Conversation Hearts were created by Oliver Chase, the founder of the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO). Chase was a candy maker who had a passion for creating innovative and delicious treats. He founded NECCO in 1847 and quickly set about creating a range of candies, including the hub wafers that would eventually become Conversation Hearts.
Chase’s creation of Conversation Hearts was a response to the growing demand for Valentine’s Day treats. At the time, traditional Valentine’s Day cards were expensive and out of reach for many people. Chase saw an opportunity to create a more affordable alternative, and the hub wafers were born. Today, Chase is remembered as a pioneer in the candy industry and the creator of one of America’s most beloved treats.
When were Conversation Hearts first produced?
Conversation Hearts were first produced in the mid-19th century, shortly after Oliver Chase founded the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) in 1847. The exact date of their production is not certain, but it is believed to have been sometime in the 1860s.
The early production of Conversation Hearts was a labor-intensive process that involved printing messages onto the candies by hand. This process was time-consuming and expensive, but it allowed Chase to create a unique and personalized product that quickly gained popularity. Today, the production of Conversation Hearts is much more streamlined, but the candies remain a beloved treat.
What are Conversation Hearts made of?
Conversation Hearts are made of a combination of sugar, corn syrup, and food coloring. The exact recipe is a trade secret, but it is believed to involve a mixture of these ingredients that is heated and then formed into the familiar heart shape.
The messages on Conversation Hearts are printed using a specialized process that involves stamping the words onto the candies using a machine. This process allows for a wide range of messages to be printed, from classic phrases like “Be Mine” to more modern sayings like “Text Me.” The result is a candy that is both delicious and personalized.
How many Conversation Hearts are produced each year?
Millions of Conversation Hearts are produced each year, with the exact number varying depending on demand. The New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) produces over 8 billion Conversation Hearts annually, making them one of the most widely consumed candies in the world.
The production of Conversation Hearts is a major undertaking that involves a team of skilled candy makers and a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. The candies are produced year-round, but the majority are made in the months leading up to Valentine’s Day. This ensures that there are plenty of Conversation Hearts to go around on February 14th.
Are Conversation Hearts still popular today?
Yes, Conversation Hearts remain a popular treat today. Despite the rise of more modern candies and sweets, Conversation Hearts continue to be a beloved tradition during Valentine’s Day. They are widely available in stores and online, and are often used as a fun and creative way to express love and affection.
In recent years, Conversation Hearts have experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to their nostalgic appeal. Many people who grew up with Conversation Hearts continue to enjoy them as adults, and the candies have become a staple of American pop culture. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Conversation Hearts are a great choice.