
Colonial Candle of Cape Cod was the first woman-owned candle company, founded by Mabel Baker in 1909. Baker began by making handcrafted bayberry taper candles as gifts for friends and family in her Cape Cod kitchen. By 1909, her candles were so popular that she began selling them in stores on Cape Cod, and they can now be found in most retailers across the USA. However, in 2011, Colonial Candle closed its final two retail shops in the region. Despite this, Colonial Candles are still available in other stores on the Cape, such as The Kandy Korner in Hyannis and online.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1909 |
| Founder | Mabel Baker |
| Founder's former profession | School teacher |
| Place of origin | Cape Cod, Massachusetts |
| Current manufacturing locations | Batavia, Illinois; Elkin, North Carolina |
| Year Cape Cod stores closed | 2011 |
| Number of Cape Cod stores closed | 2 |
| Current availability | Sold through other retailers; available online; eligible for free shipping on Amazon |
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What You'll Learn

Colonial Candle of Cape Cod closed its retail shops in 2011
Colonial Candle, founded by Mabel Baker in 1909, was the first woman-owned candle company. The company holds a legacy of over a century of craftsmanship, with its candles known for their exceptional quality, premium wax, 100% cotton wicks, and world-class manufacturing. The company's dedication to creating captivating fragrances and long-lasting burns has established Colonial Candle as a beloved brand, sparking joy and memories in homes across America.
However, in 2011, Colonial Candle of Cape Cod made a difficult decision to close its retail shops in the region. This move severed the company's final true ties to Cape Cod, as it shuttered two retail shops located within a mile of each other on Main Street. The decision was attributed to increased efficiencies in the manufacturing process, rendering the outlet stores unnecessary. According to a spokesperson for Blyth, Inc., the parent company of Colonial Candle, the stores primarily sold excess inventory, and they never had a long-term retail strategy.
The closure of the Colonial Candle stores saddened nearby business owners and employees, as the candle retailer was a Cape Cod mainstay and drew customers to the area. Despite the closures, Blyth assured customers that they would continue to sell Colonial of Cape Cod brand candles through other retailers. Casey, a spokesperson for Blyth, emphasized that the candles' origin was irrelevant to their customers as long as the product remained the same.
While Colonial Candle no longer operates physical stores exclusively dedicated to their brand, their candles continue to be available at various retail locations across Cape Cod. Customers can still purchase Colonial Candles at 21 other retail stores on the Cape, including The Kandy Korner in Hyannis, Village Trading Company in Mashpee, and Gift Barn in North Eastham, ensuring that the warmth and tradition of Colonial Candles remain accessible to candle enthusiasts in the region.
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Cape Cod Colonial Candles are still available in other stores
Colonial Candle of Cape Cod was the first woman-owned candle company, founded by Mabel Baker in 1909. Baker started by making handcrafted bayberry taper candles as gifts for her friends and family in her Cape Cod kitchen. The candles quickly grew in popularity, and by 1909, many stores in the Cape Cod area were selling Baker's creations.
In 2011, Colonial Candle closed its final retail shops in Cape Cod. However, the company stated that Colonial of Cape Cod brand candles would continue to be sold through other retailers. Shirley Gratkowski, a local sales representative, confirmed that Colonial Candles would still be available at 21 other retail stores on the Cape. These include The Kandy Korner in Hyannis, Village Trading Company in Mashpee, and Gift Barn in North Eastham, among others.
Colonial Candle of Cape Cod candles are also available for purchase online through Amazon.com, where they are eligible for free shipping for Prime members. The company's website, colonialcandle.com, provides information on the brand's history and products, as well as links to their social media pages on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
While the candles are no longer produced locally in Cape Cod, they continue to be made in the USA, upholding the legacy of American quality and craftsmanship that the brand is known for. The classic wax and home fragrance products are proudly crafted with premium wax, 100% cotton wicks, and world-class manufacturing processes.
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The candles are also sold on Amazon
Colonial Candle of Cape Cod was the first woman-owned candle company, founded by Mabel Baker in 1909. Baker began by making handcrafted bayberry taper candles as gifts for friends and family in her Cape Cod kitchen. Due to high demand, she started selling them in stores on Cape Cod and expanded nationwide. However, in 2011, Colonial Candle closed its Cape stores, including its 69,000-square-foot Hyannis factory, laying off 40 workers. The company attributed the closures to increased efficiencies in the manufacturing process, rendering outlet stores unnecessary.
Despite the closure of its Cape stores, Colonial Candles remained available at other retailers on the Cape and continue to be sold across the United States. The candles are also sold on Amazon, offering convenient online purchasing and delivery options. Amazon's listing for Colonial Candles of Cape Cod provides customers with easy access to the product, free shipping on eligible orders, and quick delivery.
Amazon has become a popular platform for purchasing candles, including the Colonial Candles of Cape Cod brand. The online retailer offers a wide selection of candle varieties, sizes, and fragrances from this historic brand. Customers can explore different product options, read reviews, and make informed purchases from the comfort of their homes. The convenience and accessibility of Amazon have likely contributed to the brand's continued reach and success.
In addition to Amazon, Colonial Candles of Cape Cod can be found in various retail stores and specialty shops across the United States. The company has maintained its presence in the market, upholding its legacy of craftsmanship and fragrance excellence. The candles are known for their enchanting fragrances, long-lasting burn, and premium-quality wax, staying true to the high standards established by Mabel Baker over a century ago.
The availability of Colonial Candles of Cape Cod on Amazon showcases the brand's adaptability and commitment to reaching a diverse range of customers. By leveraging online platforms, Colonial Candles has ensured that its products remain accessible and discoverable to candle enthusiasts worldwide. Amazon's user-friendly interface, fast delivery options, and customer reviews enhance the overall shopping experience, making it a convenient choice for those seeking the timeless charm of Colonial Candles of Cape Cod.
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The brand was inspired by its location in Hyannis, Massachusetts
The Colonial Candle of Cape Cod brand was inspired by its location in Hyannis, Massachusetts, which was the second-oldest colony in the country. The brand was founded in 1909 by Mabel Baker, a former school teacher who began making hand-dipped candles in her tiny Massachusetts Cape Cod kitchen in 1905. Baker started by crafting bayberry taper candles as gifts for friends and family. Her candles became so popular that she began selling them in her husband's local hardware store. By 1909, many stores in the Cape Cod area were selling Mrs Baker's candles, and Colonial Candle was in business.
Recognised as the first candle company started by a woman, Colonial Candle quickly expanded nationwide. The brand is still made with the same pride and craftsmanship established over a century ago. Colonial Candle classic wax and home fragrance products continue to be made in the USA, with the original bayberry taper candle still available today.
In 2011, Colonial Candle closed its Cape stores, including two retail shops in Hyannis. However, the company stated that Colonial Candles would still be available at other retailers on the Cape, such as The Kandy Korner in Hyannis and the Village Trading Company in Mashpee. The brand's products are also available online and through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Despite no longer having a physical store in Hyannis, the brand's origins and legacy remain tied to the region. Colonial Candle of Cape Cod has left an enduring impact on the area, and its candles continue to be enjoyed by people across the country and beyond. The brand's story serves as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship that inspired its creation in Hyannis, Massachusetts.
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Colonial Candle was the first woman-owned candle company
Colonial Candle, founded in 1909, holds the distinction of being the first woman-owned candle company. The company was established by Mabel Baker, a former schoolteacher who began handcrafting bayberry taper candles as gifts for friends and family. The demand for her exquisite bayberry candles grew rapidly, and she soon expanded beyond Cape Cod, selling her candles in stores across the nation.
The Colonial Candle brand has since become synonymous with exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The company upholds high standards of candle-making, utilising premium wax, 100% cotton wicks, and world-class manufacturing processes. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a reputation as a trusted and beloved candle brand.
Mabel Baker's legacy is honoured by Colonial Candle, which celebrates her achievements and the achievements of women who strive for success. The brand embodies American ingenuity, exceptional quality, and a dedication to design excellence. The original bayberry taper candles that started it all are still available today, over a century later, a testament to the enduring popularity of Colonial Candle's products.
While Colonial Candle closed its Cape stores in 2011, the brand continues to be sold through various retailers. Their classic wax and home fragrance products can be found in most stores, and they remain committed to innovation and excellence in fragrance and design. Colonial Candle has left an indelible mark on the candle industry, inspiring and nurturing memories for generations.
Today, Colonial Candle continues to spark joy and create cosy corners in homes across America. With over a century of experience, they have perfected the art of candle-making, combining exquisite fragrances with long-lasting burn times. The company's proud heritage and tradition live on, illuminating homes and hearts alike.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Cape Cod Colonial candles are sold in stores. Founded by Mabel Baker in 1909, the Colonial Candle of Cape Cod® holds the distinction of being the first woman-owned candle company. The candles are available in most retailers across the USA and can now also be purchased in the UK.
Cape Cod Colonial candles are produced at large facilities in Batavia, Illinois, and Elkin, North Carolina.
Cape Cod Colonial candles can be purchased at 21 other retail stores on the Cape, including The Kandy Korner in Hyannis, Village Trading Company in Mashpee, and Gift Barn in North Eastham. They are also available on Amazon.
Yes, Cape Cod Colonial candles can be purchased online through the company website and on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest.











































