Local Legends: King Arthur Baking Company
Local Legends: King Arthur Baking Company
We’re rockin’ the support for local growers and producers this summer! We’ll be touring our Northeast region, highlighting local products and crops, talking to farmers and artisans, and telling stories on local legends. Join us on our journey! Next up, King Arthur Baking Company in Norwich, VT.
In 1790, when King Arthur set out on their mission to be “America’s First Flour Company” a lot was different. America only had 13 states, George Washington was president, and the company was known as Henry Wood & Company, after Henry Wood began importing flour from England to Boston’s Long Wharf. Wood’s endeavor was a success as the company became the first flour company in the United States, and the first food company in New England.
It wasn’t until 1849 that the King Arthur name came to be. At the time, it was known as The Sands, Taylor, & Wood Company. They introduced their “new and improved” flour at the Boston Food Fair, naming it King Arthur after it’s Arthurian attributes: “purity, loyalty, honesty, superior strength, and a dedication to a higher purpose.”
After a mid-century expansion in 1968, King Arthur became the largest bakery supply distributor in New England, offering a plethora of ingredients from pie fillings to ice cream toppings. However, in the late 1970s, they decided to return to their roots of selling flour to professional and home bakers. Then in 1984, King Arthur made the move to Norwich, Vermont after 200 years headquartered in Boston. They remain in Norwich today and continue to serve our region with high quality flour.
King Arthur Baking Company is a staple in the kitchen of homes and businesses alike. They’re dedication to providing a top product to our communities allows for easier access to delicious food and baking items. Find King Arthur for yourself at your local Price Chopper/Market 32 or on our website.
