1869
At age 24, Gustav Goelitz opens a candy business in Belleville, Illinois, and sets the family on its sweet destiny.
1894
Gustav's sons continue the family candy making tradition.
1898
The second generation of the Goelitz candy-making family specializes in a new type of candy, mellocremes (also called butter creams), which include candy corn.
1940
In the midst of sugar rationing during World War II, which limited candy production, the company introduces Mint Wafers.
1960
The third- and fourth-generation descendants of Gustav Goelitz cook candies such as tangerine slices, spice drops, and jelly beans.
1965
A flavor breakthrough is made when the Goelitz Mini Jelly Beans are infused with flavor in the center as well as the shell.
1972
Chocolate Dutch Mints® debut. A creamy mint center is covered in dark chocolate and finished with a crisp, candy shell. It's a classic now and still one of the most popular confections we make.
1976
Building upon the flavor innovation of the Goelitz Mini Jelly Beans, the first eight flavors of Jelly Belly jelly beans, Root Beer, Green Apple, Licorice, Cream Soda, Lemon, Tangerine, Very Cherry, and Grape, are introduced.
1980
The world discovers President Ronald Reagan eats Jelly Belly jelly beans, and a star is born.
1981
About 3.5 tons of Jelly Belly jelly beans are shipped to Washington D.C. for President Ronald Reagan's inauguration celebrations.
1982
Though shipping across the Northern border to Canada since 1977, Jelly Belly jelly beans make their first trip overseas to the UK in 1982.
1983
Mr. Jelly Belly, a lovable candy character, makes his first public appearance - and it is love at first sight.
1983
Sent by President Ronald Reagan, Jelly Belly jelly beans become the first jelly beans in space!
1986
New company headquarters are built in Fairfield, California, and factory tours begin soon after.
1989
The Buttered Popcorn flavor is introduced as the world's first 'savory' jelly bean flavor. It is now among the most popular flavors.
1993
Jelly Belly Sours are introduced, a novelty at the time that has since become an enduring favorite.
1996
The ultimate sign of good taste - The Jelly Belly name is stamped on every jelly bean.
2000
Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans®, inspired by the Harry Potter series, are brought to life by the company's candy makers in wild flavors like Black Pepper, Dirt, and Earwax.