The Story of Russell Stover Chocolates

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Russell Stover Chocolates has a rich history rooted in entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience. Founded in 1923 by Russell and Clara Stover, the company grew from a small home-based operation into one of the largest and most recognized confectionery brands in the United States.

Early Beginnings

Russell Stover was born in 1888 in Alton, Kansas, and later studied chemistry at Iowa State University. Clara Stover, born in Oxford, Iowa, shared his entrepreneurial spirit and played a crucial role in the company's growth. The couple married in 1911 and initially attempted farming in Saskatchewan, Canada. However, after an unsuccessful harvest, they pivoted to the candy industry, marking the beginning of their confectionery journey.

Russell’s first major success came in 1921 when he partnered with Christian Nelson to develop a chocolate-covered ice cream bar originally called the “I-Scream Bar.” Russell suggested renaming it “Eskimo Pie,” which became an instant nationwide success. However, due to legal battles over patents, the Stovers sold their share of the business for $25,000 and relocated to Denver, Colorado, to start anew.

Founding of Mrs. Stover’s Bungalow Candies

In 1923, Clara and Russell began making candy in their home kitchen, selling boxed chocolates under the name “Mrs. Stover’s Bungalow Candies.” Clara’s passion for perfecting recipes and her business acumen were instrumental in the company's rapid growth. By 1924, the business had expanded to five stores in Denver, Kansas City, Lincoln, Omaha, and St. Louis. To meet growing demand, they opened their first factory in Kansas City in 1928 and relocated the company’s headquarters there in 1931.

Throughout the Great Depression, Clara and Russell managed to keep their business profitable despite economic challenges. Clara oversaw production and operations while ensuring the chocolates maintained their signature quality. In 1934, they diversified their offerings by opening a drive-in store, ice cream parlor, and ice cream factory in Kansas City.

Growth and Expansion

In 1943, the company officially rebranded as Russell Stover Candies. The post-World War II era saw the business expand rapidly. By 1954, the company was producing 11 million pounds of candy annually and selling its chocolates in more than 2,000 department stores across the country.

After Russell’s death in 1954, Clara took over as president, demonstrating her leadership and dedication to the company. She guided the business until 1960, when she sold it to Louis Ward, a box manufacturer who had been supplying packaging materials to Russell Stover Candies. Under Ward’s leadership, the company expanded significantly, transitioning from a regional brand to a national leader in boxed chocolates.

Continued Growth and Acquisition

During the 1980s and 1990s, Russell Stover became widely known for its heart-shaped chocolate boxes, particularly popular during Valentine’s Day. Clara's influence remained evident in the company's continued focus on quality and customer loyalty. In 1993, the company acquired Whitman’s Candies, a well-known competitor, further strengthening its position in the industry.

By the early 2000s, Russell Stover had become one of the top confectionery brands in the United States. In 2014, Swiss chocolate manufacturer Lindt & Sprüngli acquired Russell Stover, integrating it into its global operations while maintaining its Kansas City roots.

Today, Russell Stover Chocolates continues to be a household name, known for its traditional boxed chocolates and innovative sugar-free confections. The company produces around 60 million pounds of chocolate annually and maintains its commitment to quality craftsmanship and timeless recipes.

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