King Arthur Baking Company, with its roots stretching back to the American Revolution, stands as an iconic figure in the world of baking. Since its establishment in 1790, the company has played an integral role in shaping the history of American baking, providing superior flour and influencing the creation of timeless recipes. Let’s embark on a delightful journey through the rich history of King Arthur Baking Company, exploring its evolution, significant milestones, and the diverse range of products that have become synonymous with the brand.
Early Beginnings:
1790 – America’s First Flour Company Is Founded
In the era of George Washington’s presidency, Henry Wood established the first flour company in the young United States, laying the foundation for what would eventually become King Arthur Baking Company.
1820s – Milling Flour from American-Grown Wheat
As American farmers moved west, the company began milling flour from locally grown wheat, capitalizing on the flourishing wheat farming industry and the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825.
1849 – San Francisco Sourdough: Feeding The Miners
During the gold rush, King Arthur’s influence reached the West Coast, with miners turning to naturally fermented “sourdough” as a staple, marking the beginning of a baking trend.
Flour’s Rise to Prominence:
1896 – Our Flour Gets A Name: King Arthur
The company’s flour was officially named “King Arthur” at the Boston Food Fair, symbolizing attributes like purity, loyalty, honesty, superior strength, and dedication to a higher purpose.
1960s – King Arthur Expands
After a mid-century expansion, King Arthur became New England’s largest bakery supply distributor, offering a comprehensive range of ingredients to professional bakers.
1984 – Boston To Vermont: King Arthur Establishes A New Home
King Arthur made a pivotal move to Vermont, establishing a flagship campus that would become the heart of its operations and a hub for baking enthusiasts.
Embracing Diversity in Baking:
1973 – Zucchini Bread Invades American Kitchens
With the rise of the back-to-the-land movement, zucchini bread gained popularity, featuring a recipe that appeared in the influential book “Beard on Bread.”
1991 – Chocolate Lava Cake Explodes
The chocolate lava cake, characterized by a truly liquid center, became a sensation in 1991, showcasing King Arthur’s commitment to innovation in baking.
1992 – Middle School Outreach Program
King Arthur’s Life Skills Bread Baking program started in 1992, teaching schoolchildren to bake bread and share it with those less fortunate, a precursor to the expansive Bake for Good program.
Embracing the Digital Age:
1996 – King Arthur Goes Online
In 1996, King Arthur launched its first website, featuring recipes, blog posts, and information on a variety of flours, paving the way for a digital era of baking exploration.
2000 – Our Bakery And Baking School Open Their Doors
Bringing a long-time dream to life, King Arthur opened an onsite bakery and baking education center in 2000, allowing enthusiasts to experience the art of baking firsthand.
2004 – King Arthur Becomes Employee-Owned
In a commitment to the company’s future, King Arthur became employee-owned in 2004, ensuring a legacy of care and dedication to quality.
Commitment to Sustainability:
2007 – King Arthur Joins B Corp as a Founding Member
Reflecting a commitment to doing the right thing, King Arthur became a founding B Corp member in 2007, emphasizing responsibility to stakeholders, the community, and the environment.
2020 – Introducing the Wheat Crown
After 230 years, King Arthur introduced the wheat crown, symbolizing the company’s heritage, quality, and commitment to agriculture.
King Arthur’s Baking School Program:
King Arthur’s commitment to baking education is exemplified through its Baking School Program, welcoming bakers of all skill levels. With locations in Norwich, VT, and Skagit Valley, WA, as well as live online and on-demand classes, the program provides a diverse learning experience for baking enthusiasts.
Learn more about King Arthur’s fascinating journey and explore the world of baking. Click here to delve into the history, innovation, and delicious creations of King Arthur Baking Company.
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