Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
KEY CITY CANDY COMPANY
KEY CITY CANDY COMPANY. The Key City Candy Factory of J. H. Roach, located at 137 Main Street, first became known to the trade in 1864, when Mr. Roach opened a store for the sale of confections and bonbons at 58 Main street, adjoining the GERMAN BANK. His increasing business required more space which was found at 182 Main Street, where he moved his business in 1875. Again the space was found insufficient, and he purchased the site at 156 Main on April 1, 1880.
In the preparation of his candy, steam was exclusively used. This led to the logo of the company reading "KEY CITY STEAM CANDY COMPANY." Roach employed sixteen people who earned a total of $120 weekly. The trade was largely in Dubuque and vicinity. Sales in Minnesota, Iowa and Dakota, produced an annual revenue of $50,000. The Key City Steam Candy Company was listed in local directories from 1885 to 1890.
William LAWTHER, Sr. purchased the business around 1891 and owned the company until 1921. He maintained the company's logo with the exception of adding his name. In 1902 a fourth floor was added to the three story building as trade expanded locally and into South Dakota, Minnesota, and northern Illinois.
A fire in 1906 threatened the future of the business. Lawther reported within thirty-six hours that he would rebuild. To ensure that customers could continue to rely on his candy, he opened temporary quarters around the city to continue production. He sold the business in 1921 to Chem Sheridan. William LAWTHER, Jr. owned the building until 1958.
