Idaho Spud

Idaho Candy Company began in 1901 as the dream of T.O. Smith, who initially crafted candy in his home. A skilled journeyman candy maker, Smith honed his craft in Chicago, Illinois, and Salt Lake City, Utah, before moving to Boise, Idaho, to assist with the construction of the Dewey Palace Hotel in nearby Nampa. After completing the project, he found himself unemployed and began making candy, which he sold door-to-door from shoeboxes. His efforts quickly grew, and soon he had 17 candy makers producing confections in a small frame shop near 8th and Fort Street in Boise, catering to Idaho’s growing appetite for sweets. In 1909, Smith partnered with the Adams family to build a state-of-the-art factory at 412 South 8th Street in Boise to meet increasing customer demand. The 1909 factory was celebrated as the most modern building in Boise at the time, featuring skylights and a dedicated break room, referred to as a “welfare” room for employees. The Adams family retained ownership or part ownership of the company until 1969, when it was purchased by Don Wakeman, the son of a former plant manager. In 1984, Idaho Candy Company was purchased by John Wagers. John grew up in Nampa, Idaho and bought the company after having been a local accountant for over 20 years. He always said he had the sweetest job in town. Dave Wagers, his son, served as President in the 2000s. As of 2025, Idaho Candy Company is owned by the Sturdivant family. Idaho Candy will continue its proud tradition of being family-owned and operated. Remarkably, this 23,000-square-foot facility remains the home of Idaho Candy Company today, where some of the original equipment from the early 1900s is still in use to craft their candies. In this factory Idaho Candy Company produced over 50 different candy bars over the years and many varieties of boxed chocolates. Some of the bar names included: Chicken Dinner Bar, Brazil Cremes, Mint Patty, Big Chief, Quarter Section, Fox Trot and many others. Three of those candy bars are still in production: Idaho Spud Bar (1918), Old Faithful Bar (1925) and the Cherry Cocktail Bar (1926) and one new candy bar Huckleberry Gems (2012). Our factory also produces 3 varieties of Owyhee Butter Toffee (1925), available in original chunk style, bite sized and chocolate covered. We also make about 12 different kinds of tub, bag and bulk candies all in the same "modern" factory at 412 S. 8th Street in Boise, ID. The Sturdivant family takes the helm at Idaho Candy Company, proudly following in the footsteps of the Wagers family, who have carefully preserved the brand’s legacy in downtown Boise since the 1980s. Paul Sturdivant brings a strong background in food production, with hands-on experience in chocolate, coffee, and tortilla manufacturing since completing his service in the U.S. Navy in 2014. His operational expertise ensures Idaho Candy’s iconic treats continue to be made with care and quality. Megan Sturdivant will lead marketing efforts, sharing Idaho Candy’s rich story with longtime fans and new customers alike. With deep marketing experience, Megan is especially passionate about making Idaho Candy more accessible online and expanding direct-to-consumer reach. Together, the Sturdivants are committed to honoring Idaho Candy’s historic roots while introducing its one-of-a-kind flavors to a new generation. With a deep respect for the brand’s heritage and a clear vision for its future, they are excited to continue Idaho Candy’s legacy as a proud Idaho original. Even though we have been in the same candy plant since 1909, that doesn't mean the factory has stayed the same. We have upgraded all four manufacturing floors including new cooking floors, ceilings and new electrical service. Some of the old equipment has been replaced, but some is nearly as old as the building. All employees now undergo food safety and safety training on a regular basis. We undergo annual food safety audit ensuring our candy is made safely. Idaho Candy Compan