Evans Johnson, of Greek descent, immigrated to America and settling in Sidney, Ohio. He began making hand dipped chocolate in the rear of his home on Crescent Drive in 1919. Mr. Johnson purchased the assets of the Venus Chocolate Company in 1922, expanding his business. Soon the business occupied a new structure on North Main Avenue. Modern candy making machinery from France was installed. Johnson imported raw chocolate from India. At the height of production over two tons of chocolate candy a day was made and shipped to a market area covering four states.
Another candy operation founded by Johnson was the Purity Candy Kitchen on the north west corner of Poplar and Ohio Avenue. Yet another candy business formed by Johnson was the Evans Johnson Candy Company on the 6th floor of the Oldham Building on Poplar.
The candy market flourished in Sidney, Ohio with the innovative spirit of Evans Johnson. This chocolate candy produced in Sidney had a market in Ohio and beyond.
