Mustard Capital of the World

Middleton, Wisconsin

Barry, owner of the National Mustard Museum has been doing mustard big time since the late 1890's.  You will find over 5,000 varieties of mustard here.  You can sample till your taste buds are numb.  This place is just outside of Madison, Wisconsin.  I consider it a treasure to visit.

Remember, Friends don't let friends eat catsup!

Pretzel Capital of the World

Reading, PA


Pretzel Capital of the World

There has been a long tradition of pretzel making in this community. In 1884, the Bachman Pretzel Company opened and grew to become a giant in the pretzel industry. The Spannuth family came here in the 1920’s. Their operation became a success overnight and is known as the Unique Pretzel Company. Later in the 1940’s, the Tom Sturgis Pretzel Company opened and became another legendary giant pretzel manufacturer. Today, the town is still world renowned for its pretzels. There are dozens of pretzel companies in the community. If you are ever honored with the “Key to the City”, you will find a pretzel on it.

Colon, MIchigan

In 1926, the town really got into the magic business. Harry Blackstone, a world renowned magician in the 1920’s and 1930’s, came to visit the town. Harry was looking for an off season home. He purchased a local island here and brought his more than 20 member stage crew. Later, Harry joined up with fellow magician Recil Bordner. Harry and Recil started a magic business selling magic tricks. The relationship ended badly after only 18 months due to a business transaction. While Harry was on the road doing his magic show, he purchased an illusion from another magician. Recil thought the company now owned the illusion and sold it. When Harry found out about this transaction he was furious at Recil. The two never talked to each other after the quarrel. Recil later met Percy Abbott, another magician. Both went into business together and formed the Abbott Magic Manufacturing Company. This company went on to become the world’s largest manufacturer of magic paraphernalia. The company is still in business today. The community celebrates for a week and the event is called “Abbott’s Magic Get-Together”.