Centuries-Old Candy Shop in Salem Enchants Visitors with Historic Treats

In the historic town of Salem, Massachusetts, one attraction stands out beyond the city's association with witches: Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie, a must-visit candy shop that has been delighting visitors for over two centuries.

The story of Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie began in 1806 when a woman named Mary Spencer arrived in the area and started making candy from her own recipes. Her candies quickly became a hit in the community, and Spencer went from selling them on the front steps of a church to having her own wagon and eventually a brick-and-mortar location.

After Spencer's passing, the business was passed down through several owners, including John Pepper and the Burkinshaw family, who have maintained the shop's legacy. Today, Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie is still owned and operated by the Burkinshaw family, who continue to use Spencer's original recipes, including the iconic Gibralters and Black Jacks.

The Gibralters, a centuries-old candy made with sugar, water, cream of tartar, and flavored with lemon or peppermint oil, have become a signature of the shop. The candy's impressive shelf stability and timeless taste have captivated visitors for generations, with the shop even showcasing a jar of nearly 200-year-old Gibralters.

By preserving the original recipes and honoring the shop's rich history, Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie has become a beloved destination, offering a taste of the past and a glimpse into the enduring legacy of one of America's first commercial candy companies.