MACKINAC FUDGE
Mackinac Island is well known for its world-famous handmade fudge and a rich tradition of producing high quality handmade fudge and candies . Skilled candy makers have been making fudge and candy on Mackinac for millions of customers for well over 130 years , and still do to this day .
You can buy a box of the famous fudge and save it as a souvenir , ship some home to friends , co-workers , and family or enjoy the delicious treat and eat it right out of the box as soon as you hit the street . Other fine candies and chocolates are made fresh at all locations as well . There are several very reputable candy makers at numerous locations on the Island , all making the best chocolate and fudge in the world .
A BRIEF HISTORY OF FUDGE
It all began back in 1887 , the year Grand Hotel first opened . A canvas sail maker named Henry Murdick , was hired by Grand Hotel to make canvas awnings . Murdick arrived to live and work on the Island with his wife and two sons . Their eldest son , Jerome Murdick , opened a shop downtown and began making and selling candy and fudge using his mother ’ s recipes . A few years later , Jerome ’ s son Gould Murdick would take over the family business . In 1940 , Gould Murdick sold the building and business , but some 30 years later , Murdick ’ s reopened and once again began selling famous fudge and candy still to this day .
Famous Mackinac Island Fudge
In 1960 , Detroit entrepreneur Harry Ryba brought his fudge business , RYBA ’ S FUDGE to the Island and changed everything . Instead of making fudge in the back room , he brought the marble fudge cooling slabs up front in plain view through large windows attracting visitors strolling down Main Street , while overhead exhaust fans blew the sweet chocolate smell out into the street . This famous marketing strategy has not changed in 60 years .
Sweet in every sense . Since 1947 , KILWINS has earned a reputation for providing high-quality chocolates , ice cream , and confections combined with excellent service through a successful community of caring owner
46 Inside Mackinac