Before it became known as Hershey, Pennsylvania, the area was originally named Derry Church. This settlement served as the foundational location for Milton S. Hershey's chocolate empire, eventually leading to its widespread recognition and renaming.
The Evolution from Derry Church to Hershey
The transformation from Derry Church to the globally recognized name of Hershey reflects the significant impact of the Hershey Chocolate Company on the region. While the town is synonymous with chocolate, its roots lie in a modest community.
Here's a breakdown of the town's administrative and historical context:
- Original Name: The initial settlement was known as Derry Church.
- Renaming: The area gradually adopted the name "Hershey" due to the influence and growth of the Hershey Chocolate Company and Milton Hershey's vision for a town built around his factory.
- Municipal Status: Interestingly, despite its fame, Hershey, PA, does not hold legal status as an incorporated municipality. This means it is not a borough or city in the traditional sense.
- Local Governance: The municipal services for the town are provided by Derry Township, which is part of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. This arrangement ensures that residents receive essential services like public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and various administrative functions.
Key Aspects of Hershey's Identity
The unique administrative structure of Hershey contributes to its distinctive character. It operates more as a planned community within a larger township, rather than an independent legal entity.
Aspect | Description |
---|---|
Former Name | Derry Church |
Current Recognition | Hershey |
Legal Status | Not an incorporated municipality (e.g., city, borough) |
Service Provider | Derry Township |
County | Dauphin County, Pennsylvania |
This historical background highlights how a small community, once known as Derry Church, evolved into the iconic "Chocolate Town" under the vision and enterprise of Milton Hershey, while maintaining its municipal ties to Derry Township.