From Humble Beginnings...
If you're a fan of sweet treats, you've probably heard of Mackinac Island fudge. But did you know that this delicious candy has a facinating history? It all started on the quaint trading hub of Mackinac Island, where fur and fish were once the main commodities. But as the island evolved into a summer resort destination, candy makers saw an opportunity to cater to the growing tourist market.
A True Original...
One of the early pioneers who helped turn this sweet treat into a world-renowned product was Jim Marshall, founder of Marshall’s Fudge, who got his start as a candy maker at Mackinac Island's very first candy shop back in 1923. Over the years, he honed his craft and perfected the art of fudge-making. Marshall's dedication and skill quickly made him a beloved figure in the Mackinac Island community. He even took his delicious fudge on the road, traveling to off-season events across Michigan to share his sweet creations with the world.
Mackinac Island Roots...
Marshall was a native of Mackinac Island, his ancestry there dating back to the early 1820’s. Marshall’s great-grandfather, William Anthony Marshall, was commissioned commander of Old Fort Mackinac during the Civil War and was the Fort’s longest serving soldier. During the late 1800’s Jim Marshall’s grandfather, William Marshall II, was the first light keeper of the Round Island Lighthouse located on Lake Huron.
The Marshall's Legacy...
Jim Marshall created a new and very different legacy for the Marshall name in 1952 when he and his wife Oradelle, along with their son Dean, opened their own candy store located on Mackinac Island’s Main Street. They named their store “Marshall’s Driftwood Fudge” which quickly became a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike.
But it wasn't just Jim Marshall who made Marshall's Fudge a success. His wife Oradelle played an equally important role. Mrs. Marshall was a true innovator in the world of fudge-making, constantly developing new and exciting flavors that are still available at Marshall's Fudge today!
In 1954, Jim and his family expanded their business by opening a second store, in St. Ignace, Michigan, introducing the first fudge shop to that community. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Marshall family's legacy.
Spreading Joy Across Michigan...
By 1962, Marshall's Fudge had expanded to six stores across Michigan’s Straits area. Jim Marshall had once again managed to share the joy of Mackinac Island fudge with people throughout the state. By 1965 the Marshall’s had opened a store on East Central Avenue in the heart of Mackinaw City. Today, more than half a century later, Marshall's Fudge is still located on the very same street in Mackinaw City.
A Family Affair...
Jim Marshall's love of fudge was contagious, and he passed this love on to his son Dean. When Dean married Jeannie, they worked together to continue building the family business. Dean was affectionately known as "the candy man" in the community. He loved to share his passion with everyone he met, and was always happy to offer a sample or two to anyone who visted the store. As their children grew up, they also learned the art of candy making and fudge production, just like their parents and grandparents before them.
The Tradition Continues...
Mackinac Island Fudge would not be the world renowned product it is today if it had not been for pioneer candy makers like Jim Marshall. Despit their growth, Marshall's Fudge remains committed to the same principles that made Jim and Oradell's original store a success. Now owned and operated by Daisy (Jim's granddaughter) and her husband Pat, the family still uses only the freshest and most premium ingredients using time-honored techniques that have been passed down through generations.
When you visit Marshall's Fudge, you'll experience the warmth and hospitality that comes from being part of a family business and enjoy a taste of the same fudge that has delighted a century of customers. So come see us and taste the love that goes into every batch of Marshall's Fudge!