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Stauffers: The Original American Animal Cracker Pioneer
17 May
Summary
- David F. Stauffer began producing animal crackers in 1871.
- Animal crackers were first made in England in the mid-1800s.
- Stauffers remains headquartered in York, Pennsylvania today.
Animal crackers, a beloved snack enjoyed by generations, have a history that predates the familiar Barnum's box. The journey of these treats began in England during the mid-1800s before gaining a foothold in the United States.
In 1871, baker David F. Stauffer initiated production in York, Pennsylvania, marking the birth of what would become the D.F. Stauffer Biscuit Company, now known as Stauffers. Initially, Stauffer delivered his crackers via wheelbarrow, later expanding to wagons and rail as demand grew.
Decades after Stauffers' pioneering efforts, Nabisco introduced its own Barnum's Animal Crackers, inspired by the popular circus. While Barnum's achieved widespread recognition, Stauffers continues its legacy, operating as a subsidiary of Meiji America Inc. in York, Pennsylvania, and producing snack products within the United States.
