Published on April 21, 2026
The Hershey Chocolate Company rose to prominence in the early 20th century, mastering mass production and automating chocolate-making. As World War I sparked a sugar shortage, Milton S. Hershey faced a pressing need for a steady sugar supply. In a bold move, he turned to Cuba, envisioning an electric railway to support his sugar empire.
Starting in 1916, Hershey expanded his operations to Cuba amidst U.S. interests protected Amendment. He established plantations, mills, and a company town, all designed to secure and streamline sugar production. The ambitious electric railway was born out of necessity, allowing for efficient transportation of sugarcane at a time when instantaneous processing could mean the difference between profit and loss.
The railway, electrified by 1920, set its mark as Cuba’s first electric train, yet similar advancements were already in motion worldwide. It powered both Hershey’s operations and local communities, showcasing how industry could energize and shape local economies. However, as Cuba’s political landscape shifted, the sustainability of these operations came into question.