'Sweet Home Chicago' candy exhibit continues at Naper Settlement

Naper Settlement brings Chicago's candy-making history to Naperville with its current exhibit, "Sweet Home Chicago: The History of America's Candy Capital," on view through July 28.

Originally produced by the Elmhurst History Museum and curated by Lance Tawzer, now director of innovation and experience at Naper Settlement, the interactive exhibit details Chicago's chapter of the candy industry, celebrating the stories of iconic candy names such as Snickers, Butterfinger, Tootsie Roll, Cracker Jack and more.

Naper Settlement, at 523 S. Webster St. in downtown Naperville, is weaving the city's candy story into "Sweet Home Chicago" with a new component to the traveling exhibit. Patrons can explore the history of locally based Amurol Products Company, famous for its novelty gum offerings such as Bubble Tape and Ouch! Bubble Gum.

The company, owned by Wrigley Company, won the hearts of many Naperville children in the 1980s and 1990s who served as members of the Candy Tasters Club, providing feedback on everything from concept and packaging to flavor. In addition to showcasing Amurol's history, the exhibit features interviews from these local candy tasters sharing their experience.

"Many of us have cherished memories around candy that extend from our growing up years into adulthood. Treats in Halloween bags and chocolate on Valentine's Day are rites of passage for many," said Donna Sack, vice president and chief program officer.

"We are hearing from people who were part of the Amurol Candy Tasters Club, that arriving home with their bounty of candy and gum after a tasting is a favorite memory of their childhood and teen years. We would love to hear from more people who participated in the club."

In conjunction with the exhibit, the museum also will offer a special edition of its Fourth Thursday Pop-Up program with a movie screening of "Shelf Life: The Story of Lanzi Candy" at Classic Cinemas on July 25.

The documentary examines the themes of family legacies, immigration and the American Dream through the lens of the candy-making industry. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a talkback session with the film's creator, Michael Lahey.

For more information on the exhibit, movie screening, and admission rates, visit www.NaperSettlement.org.