The Genuine Bears This Signature, Part 3

Travel Abroad

Milton Hershey traveled extensively for pleasure as well as business.   As soon as his finances permitted, he began making extended trips to destinations in the United States and abroad.  His curiosity took him to museums, cathedrals, theaters and casinos. After his marriage to Kitty travel took on a new significance.  Many trips were taken in the hopes of helping Kitty to find relief from her declining health.  Postcards helped Milton and Catherine Hershey stay connected with Milton’s mother, Fanny Hershey, and others in the community.

Carrying on with business

Milton Hershey’s extensive traveling required that others be able to act on his behalf.  Throughout his life Milton Hershey gave Power of Attorney to his most trusted associates.  This group included John Snyder, William H. Lebkicher, Ezra Hershey and James Leithiser.

The Power of Attorney enabled Milton Hershey’s designee to sign checks, transact business and represent him in any setting.

Hershey in Cuba

Between 1916 and 1937, Milton Hershey spent most winter months in Cuba overseeing sugar production, often traveling back and forth to Hershey to manage business at home.

Hershey’s manner of doing business in Cuba differed sharply from most foreign businessmen who exploited the country and took their profits home with them. Milton Hershey provided comfortable housing, good schools, recreation and healthy living conditions for his Cuban workers.  His annual trips to Cuba ended when his age and declining health put an end to extended travel.