The 4th of July, a day etched in the hearts of Americans, is a celebration of the enduring spirit of freedom that unifies Americans. In Texas, July 4th means epic barbecues under the scorching summer sun followed by abundant fireworks at sundown. It's a break from routine to celebrate what matters most: freedom, family and tradition. Would you believe that Lammes Candies was founded on July 10, 1885, just six days after the country's 109th birthday? With so many shared values, over the years, Lammes Candies started celebrating the two birthdays together making early July a favorite time of year for the entire Lammes Candies team. Naturally, the 4th of July evokes feelings of gratitude for all the opportunities our nation has afforded Lammes. And, we'd like to extend our thanks to our loyal customers who have allowed Lammes Candies to flourish for 139 years as the original confectionery of the South. We thank you each kindly for your patronage!

A Recap of Lammes' Candies Sweet Legacy

For newer customers, here's a slice of our sweet 139 year legacy. Lammes Candies was founded by William Wirt Lamme in 1878. Originally called the Red Front Candy Factory, the store was located in the 800 block of Congress Avenue - the main business street in Austin, Texas. These were the days of the Wild West in the United States. Gambling and specifically poker was a pastime during those days in America. Unfortunately in a poker game in 1885, William Lamme lost the business. However, his son, David Turner Lamme, Sr. repaid the $800 gambling debt to reclaim the store as his own. 

On July 10, 1885, Lammes Candies officially opened and has been family owned and operated since. After a few years, the store was moved to a new location at 919 Congress Avenue where it served Austinites until 1956.

At first, Lammes mainly offered frozen desserts including ice cream and gem (similar to sherbert). Horse-drawn wagons made their way up Congress Avenue from the rail station emblazoned with: "Another carload of ice-cream cartons for Lammes." And, in 1965, David Lamme Teich stopped producing Gem and expanded into fine chocolates, savory pralines and other confections.

In 1945, Lamme and his wife, Lily, sold their business to their children - David Lamme, Jr., Lena Lamme, and Evelyn Lamme Teich. In 1946, the store was remodeled, featuring glass doors together with stationary panels of hermetically sealed glass (another first on Congress Avenue).Still in the family, the company is owned and operated by Pam, Bryan, and Lana who remain committed to using only the finest ingredients.

Today, the fifth generation of the Lamme family continues the legacy of world famous confections. Lammes Candies is now a full-line candy company offering more than 1,000 items. The Texas Chewie® Pecan Pralines, using the original recipe from 1882, is still the number one selling product with over 2,000 pounds produced daily. Starting in the 1960's, pecans and chewy caramel were added to premium chocolate to create the famous Longhorns. Later, Choc'Adillos were born by surrounding caramel with whole roasted almonds and covering them with milk chocolate. Finally, crunchy cashews were smothered in caramel and topped with chocolate to complete this Texas trio with the Cashew Critter. A variety of other confections have been added to the line with the latest introduction of Kisses. Lammes' candy kitchen lovingly prepares many more delightful chocolates, taffies, brittles, and other surprises, like divinity to please the most discriminating of tastes. 

Long Live the American Dream

Now 139 years strong, Lammes Candies is a living testament to the American dream! Patriotism is more than a feeling; it is an inventory of our values, our history, and our collective identity. We are so proud of the country we call home and our ability to share joy across the nation with our fine confections. Lammes Candies has remained a family business for five generations emphasizing the importance of family bonds in both business and personal life. Our commitment to preserving Lammes' original recipes and confection techniques is reflected in the care and craftsmanship that go into every piece of candy we produce.

Independence Day and Lammes Candies' anniversary offer us the perfect opportunity to celebrate all things American. From vibrant parades and spectacular fireworks to the delightful taste of a praline, these celebrations are a tribute to the American spirit and help foster a sense of unity.

As we light up the skies with fireworks and savor the sweet taste of Lammes Candies while relaxing with friends and family, we are reminded of the rich traditions that make America the finest country in the world. The 4th of July and Lammes Candies' 139th anniversary both honor the enduring spirit of America: our commitment to freedom, our love of family and the importance of protecting traditions.

This year, let's observe our nation's independence and the sweet legacy of Lammes Candies by coming together with loved ones, cherishing our heritage and committing to future filled with promise and possibility. Whether you are enjoying a festive barbecue, watching a parade, or indulging in a Lammes Texas Chewie Pecan Praline on the porch, take a moment to reflect on the values that make our country great and the sweet traditions that bring us joy. Happy Independence Day and happy birthday to Lammes Candies! May both celebrations continue to inspire and delight for generations to come.

Need some sweet treats for the holiday? As always you can shop online 24/7 or if you need help, feel free to give us a call 9am-5pm CST.