Remember O-Pee-Chee? This researcher might want to talk to you
The candy company was iconic for its sports trading cards and other sugary classics.
CBC News
The original O-Pee-Chee factory was located on Adelaide Street in London, Ont. Public history professor Michael Dove is collecting stories about the economic and cultural impact of the candy factor. (O-Pee-Chee archives )
A public history professor is seeking out former employees who once made some of Canada's most popular candies and sports trading cards.
The O-Pee-Chee factory in London, Ont. produced everything from Bazooka gum to Nerds to SweeTarts, and became a household name appearing on hockey and baseball cards.
Opened in 1911 and sold to Nestle 85 years later, the candy giant and the legacy it left in London has not been well documented, according to Western University's assistant professor Michael Dove.
"I really want to get at the social and cultural aspects of this company that I consider very iconic. It had wide influence outside of London, and so the best way of getting at that is to talk to the folks who worked there," said Dove.
Because of the age of some of the employees, especially those who worked at the original factory on Dundas and Adelaide streets, he's curious to hear from family members.
"I've looked at other Canadian businesses, and families tend to find their way into businesses together. Sometimes generations were at the same plant. So whether you were involved in advertising, the production line or deliveries, I would like to talk to you," Dove explains.
WATCH: Find out if you can help with the O-Pee-Chee research:
