What it is
Marshmallow-flavored nougat in a chocolate-flavored coating. Flavors today: vanilla, chocolate and strawberry. Banana, grape and cherry have come and gone.
The story
- 1922: first made by Fox-Cross Candy Company, founded by stage actor Donley Cross and Charlie Fox.
- 1957: Nathan Sloane bought the company.
- 1980: Sold to Nabisco takes over.
- 1988: Warner-Lambert bought it.
- 1993: Tootsie Roll Industries bought the brand.
Fun facts
- Named after the Charleston, the dance craze of the time.
- Chocolate and strawberry flavors arrived in the 1970s under Nathan Sloane.
- Bite-size Mini Charleston Chews came out in 1998.
Is Charleston Chew still made?
Yes. Charleston Chew is still made, by Tootsie Roll Industries. Look for it at candy shops that stock old-fashioned candy, or search for Charleston Chew on Amazon.
If you like Charleston Chew
- Butterfinger (1923): A flaky, layered peanut butter crisp center in a chocolate-flavored coating.
- Baby Ruth (1920): Peanuts, caramel and chocolate-flavored nougat in a chocolate coating.
- Mounds (1920): Sweet shredded coconut in dark chocolate.
- Oh Henry! (1920): Peanuts, caramel and fudge coated in chocolate.
See every candy from the 1920s or all candy bars.
Frequently asked questions
When did Charleston Chew come out?
Charleston Chew was first made in 1922, by Fox-Cross Candy Company, founded by stage actor Donley Cross and Charlie Fox.
Who makes Charleston Chew now?
Tootsie Roll Industries.
Is Charleston Chew discontinued?
No. Charleston Chew is still made by Tootsie Roll Industries.
Questions and memories from readers
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Sources
Checked October 22, 2026. Charleston Chew is a trademark of its owner; this page is not connected to the maker. How we check our facts.
