In 1765, Dr. James Baker of Dorchester stumbled upon Irishman John Hannon crying on the banks of the mighty Neponset River. Hannon, though penniless, possessed the rare skills required to create chocolate, a delicacy exclusive to Europe, and Baker, with pockets bursting, wished to make a name for himself. Using a mill powered by the same river upon which they met, the duo-built America's oldest and most beloved manufacturer of this rich treat.

Local historian Anthony Sammarco details the delicious saga of Massachusetts's Baker Chocolate Company, from Hannon's mysterious disappearance and the famed La Belle Chocolatier advertising campaign, to cacao bean smuggling sparked by Revolutionary War blockades. Both bitter and sweet, this tale is sure to tickle your taste buds and of course, we will have chocolate for everyone to enjoy!

All are welcome! 

Call the Council on Aging to register:  781-329-8799.

This program is offered in partnership with Westwood Council on Aging and is made possible by the generosity of the Friends of the Westwood Council on Aging.