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1921-1959
Historic Location
Did you know that our location once was a chocolate shop and restaurant?
How It All Began
In 1921, Greek immigrants, Bill Trenkis (a chocolatier) and George Skestos, looking to create a new life in America, partnered together to create Candyland Chocolates and Restaurant. It was originally located at 110 W. Main (now home to Aviator Jayne!) until L. Paul Ball, a jeweler, moved in. It was at that time, in 1932, that Candyland moved to its permanent home of 112 W. Main.
Businessman and developer, John Krust joined George Skestos until Skestos’ retirement in 1945. Candyland eventually closed its doors in 1959. Since 1959, 112 W. Main has been the home to many other ventures, including a dress shop, a sports store, and an art gallery!
The Owosso Hotel
The Owosso Hotel was a five-story luxury hotel built in 1929. It was on the corner of Main and Washington. Candyland was just a couple of doors down!
“The chocolates were dipped on the second floor and stored in a pantry in the basement to ripen. There was a very long soda fountain on one side of the store and booths and candy cases on the opposite side. People came from as far as Detroit on a regular basis to purchase the hand made chocolates and home made ice cream…”
Many thanks to shiawasseehistory.com and the Owosso Downtown Historic District Study Committee. Their invaluable research helped us to better understand and appreciate our new home! All of the photos and content on this page came from their report and website.