Beich's Candy

Beich's Candy was founded in 1893 by Paul F. Beich. The company was the seller of the formerly popular Beich Whiz bar, a chocolate-covered marshmallow confection. Beich also produced Golden Crumbles, Katydids, and other brands here in Bloomington, Illinois.

Beich's Candy Factory

Production of Beich's treats began at the factory just around the turn of the century (1900's) and ended in 1973, when a new facility was built. The building was later used for storage and offices. In 2001 the Beich's family donated it to Mid Central Community Action, which had plans to convert it to a social service center. But in December the organization announced it would demolish the building and make land available for affordable single-family homes.

In April of 2005, the site was set ablaze, a father and stepson were arrested soon after for the offense. The fire went on for hours, and ended with the destruction of the entire building. One firefighter was injured during the process, and it took over 80 personnel from both Bloomington, IL and Normal, IL to finally extinguish the flames.

The story of the two men arrested, as well as images of the fire itself, are available at:https://www.firehouse.com/home/news/10510646/two-men-arrested-after-fire-destroys-vacant-bloomington-illinois-candy-factory