Margaret Rudkin

Margaret Rudkin

Margaret Rudkin (September 14, 1897 – June 1, 1967) was an American entrepreneur and the founder of Pepperidge Farm, a popular bakery brand known for its high-quality bread and cookies.

Early Life and Career

Margaret Rudkin was born on September 14, 1897, in New York City, New York. She grew up in a middle-class family and developed a passion for cooking and baking from a young age. After completing her education, she worked as a homemaker and focused on raising her three children.

In the early 1930s, Margaret's youngest son was diagnosed with asthma and multiple allergies. Determined to find a solution, she began experimenting with different recipes using natural and wholesome ingredients. Her goal was to create nutritious and delicious food that her son could enjoy without triggering his allergies.

Founding of Pepperidge Farm

Margaret Rudkin's experimentation in her home kitchen led to the creation of a unique whole wheat bread recipe that was well-received by her family and friends. Encouraged by their positive feedback, she decided to turn her passion for baking into a business.

In 1937, Margaret founded Pepperidge Farm, named after her family's property in Fairfield, Connecticut. She started by selling her homemade bread to local stores and quickly gained a reputation for her high-quality products. The demand for her bread grew rapidly, and she expanded her product line to include cookies, crackers, and other baked goods.

Legacy

Margaret Rudkin's dedication to using natural ingredients and her commitment to quality helped establish Pepperidge Farm as a trusted brand in the baking industry. Today, Pepperidge Farm is known for its wide range of products, including the iconic Goldfish crackers and Milano cookies.

Margaret's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach to baking paved the way for other women in business. She became a role model for aspiring female entrepreneurs, proving that with determination and a great product, success is attainable.