 |
Beginnings
The late Harry London began producing fine chocolates in Canton, Ohio in 1922. He was a steel worker by trade, and began his journey into the world of confections by making chocolates for Christmas gifts. Using his father's recipes, Harry's chocolates were so delicious that his friends began asking if they could purchase them. Shortly after, he decided to begin producing fine confections full time. From humble beginnings in the basement of their home on 21st Street in North Canton, Harry and his wife, Iola, built a thriving candy business. In 1954, their home burned down, and they built a facility at 1281 South Main Street, North Canton, Ohio. Today, Waggoner Chocolates maintains their corporate offices and factory at this location. |
Gift of Chocolate
In 1967, shortly before his death, Harry invited his son-in-law, Cedric Waggoner, to join the firm. Cedric began to develop the idea of the "Gift of Chocolate" encompassing the manufacture of novelty items made of fine quality chocolate. Until that time, no such gift existed. In 1970, they offered the giant Super Kiss as a "Gift of Chocolate" at a very competitive price point, therefore opening up the market. This was the first true gift of chocolate ever offered in the United States. |
 |
 |
The Next Generation
From 1987 to 1990, the third generation joined the company, bringing with them a new perspective to their rich family heritage. The grandchildren included Allison, Joe, and Mercedes Waggoner, and Mercedes' husband Peter Young. Peter Young obtained his master's degree from the London School of Economics and his law degree from the University of Michigan. Mercedes Waggoner Young graduated from Georgetown School of Law. Allison Waggoner attended Akron University's School of Culinary Arts. After completing military service, Joe Waggoner returned to North Canton. He followed in his grandfather's footsteps attending confectionary schools in both the United States and Europe. He continued to expand their current product line with new products and innovations, including the development of the Buckeye. |
Commitment to Quality
Exceptional quality standards have become the benchmark of the family heritage, and carries over into Waggoner Chocolates today. Quality, innovation, and understanding the marketability of fine confections continues with the third generation as the mission for Waggoner Chocolates. |
 |
Growth for the Future
Waggoner Chocolates continues using our grandfather's special recipes, manufacturing according to the same principals of perfection and quality, using only the best ingredients from around the world.
"I trust you will enjoy our dedication to manufacturing premium chocolates..." |
 |
|
