Hershey, Pennsylvania
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| Hershey, Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|
| Name | Hershey |
| Settlement type | Census-designated place |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Pennsylvania |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Dauphin County |
| Subdivision type3 | Townships |
| Subdivision name3 | Derry Township, South Hanover Township |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | 1903 |
| Founder | Milton S. Hershey |
| Unit pref | Imperial |
| Area total km2 | 36.5 |
| Area total sq mi | 14.1 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 13,858 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Timezone | EST |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 17033 |
| Area code | 717 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 42-33848 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 1176905 |
Hershey, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1903 as a company town by chocolate magnate Milton S. Hershey, this community is globally synonymous with The Hershey Company and its confectionery empire. Located within Derry Township in Dauphin County, its development was meticulously planned to support Hershey's industrial vision and provide a high quality of life for employees. Today, it is a major tourist destination anchored by its iconic theme park and numerous attractions celebrating its sweet heritage.
History
The area's modern history began when Milton S. Hershey, having achieved success with the Lancaster Caramel Company, selected the site near his birthplace in Derry Church to build a new factory for mass-producing milk chocolate. Inspired by the Garden city movement and welfare capitalist models like Pullman, he constructed not only the Hershey's Chocolate World manufacturing plant but also housing, a trolley system, and public infrastructure. Key philanthropic institutions were established, including the Milton Hershey School for orphaned children in 1909 and the Hershey Trust Company to fund it. The town weathered the Great Depression with major construction projects like Hersheypark Stadium and the Hotel Hershey, providing crucial employment. During World War II, the company produced Field Ration D for the United States Armed Forces.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the census-designated place encompasses 14.1 square miles, primarily within Derry Township with a small portion in South Hanover Township. It lies in the Great Appalachian Valley, approximately 14 miles east of Harrisburg and 95 miles west of Philadelphia. The area is drained by Spring Creek and features a humid continental climate. Significant geographic landmarks include the expansive grounds of Hersheypark, the formal gardens of The Hotel Hershey, and the Hershey Country Club golf courses. The community is bisected by major transportation routes like Pennsylvania Route 743 and U.S. Route 422.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 13,858. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with growing African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino communities. The Census Bureau reports a median household income significantly above the Pennsylvania average, reflecting the stable employment provided by major institutions like The Hershey Company and the Penn State Health medical center. Educational attainment levels are high, with a large percentage of residents holding bachelor's degrees or higher, supported by proximity to institutions like Penn State Harrisburg.
Economy
The economy is overwhelmingly dominated by The Hershey Company, one of the largest global confectionery manufacturers, whose headquarters and major production facilities remain central. Tourism is the second pillar, driven by Hersheypark, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, Hershey's Chocolate World, and performances at the Hershey Theatre and Giant Center. The Hershey Trust Company, administering the endowment for the Milton Hershey School, is a powerful financial entity. Other major employers include Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a leading academic medical center, and the service industries supporting the millions of annual visitors. The presence of the Hershey Country Club also supports hospitality and event sectors.
Culture and recreation
Cultural life is deeply intertwined with the Hershey legacy. Hersheypark, opened in 1906, is a major seasonal theme park featuring coasters like Candymonium and Storm Runner. The Hershey Theatre hosts Broadway tours and concerts, while the Giant Center is home to the American Hockey League's Hershey Bears and major touring acts. Hershey's Chocolate World offers interactive attractions and factory tours. The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Gardens provide upscale leisure, and community events like Hershey's Christmas Candylane are regional traditions. The Antique Automobile Club of America Museum is also a notable cultural institution nearby.
Government
As an unincorporated community, it lacks a separate municipal government. Administrative and police services are provided by Derry Township, governed by a Board of Supervisors. Land use and planning are significantly influenced by entities controlled by the Hershey Trust Company, such as Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company. The community is part of Pennsylvania's 10th congressional district and is represented in the Pennsylvania General Assembly within the 15th Senatorial District and 104th Representative District. Local fire protection is provided by the Derry Township Fire Department and volunteer companies.
Category:Census-designated places in Pennsylvania Category:Populated places in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania Category:Company towns in Pennsylvania