AMERICA'S CHOICE FOR OVER A CENTURY:
OVER 135 YEARS OF AMERICA'S BEST CHEW HISTORY
For generations, three words have been printed on nearly everything that bears our name, “America’s Best Chew”. The phrase may have gone unnoticed by some, but it represents our founder’s passion and commitment to quality. The name change comes as part of the brand’s 135th anniversary and reflects the success of the #1 selling Chew brand, while providing greater alignment with Pinkerton Tobacco Company’s company values.
Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr. of the Cherokee Nation added, “I applaud the Swedish Match company for retiring the use of “Red Man” as a product name. Nationally, we are moving away from the use of derogatory terms and depictions of Native Americans as product mascots because representations are stereotypical caricatures, and they do not honor us or reflect how we live and thrive, both as individuals and as unique Tribal Nations today.” Hoskin added, “The announcement to change the brand’s name and imagery gives us hope that more companies, schools and sports teams hear us, and that we will continue to make impactful national changes for the betterment of Indian Country.”
Moving forward, our packaging will reflect the name and logo change. But what’s inside won’t ever change. We’ll still fill our pouches with the exact same, high-quality smokeless tobacco that’s been enjoyed by many generations —right down to the unmistakable aroma, texture, and flavor.
After all, it’s what makes us America’s Best Chew. Along with our customers.
For over 135 years, America's Best Chew® tobacco has embodied the traditions and values that have helped shape America. But it didn't happen overnight.
In 1887, grocer turned entrepreneur
John W. Pinkerton purchases a
fledgling Ohio tobacco company
and gives it the family name: The
Pinkerton Tobacco Company.
In 1904, the Original Blend goes into
production, first hitting shelves in
Toledo, Ohio. Its stint as little-known
chew won’t last long.
In 1911, Original Blend starts
growing so rapidly that it will soon
earn the label "America’s Best Chew®".
1922: With his passing, John W.
Pinkerton’s son-in-law, Orr Bovard,
and son Sherwood Pinkerton Jr.,
assume control of the company.
The business stays in the family.
1940: The Pinkerton tradition is
passed on as Sherwood Pinkerton
Jr. succeeds his brother-in-law to
lead the Pinkerton Tobacco Co.
Original Blend quickly became the tobacco of choice for fishermen, factory workers, hunters, farmers and countless others by the 1950s.
1967: Pinkerton introduces its
innovative foil packaging. The
pouches keep America’s Best
Chew® fresher, longer than the
wax paper boxes they replaced.
1986: Nearly 80 years after the
birth their first product, Pinkerton
Tobacco introduces Golden Blend
for a smooth, balanced taste that
stays true to the original flavor.
1995: Select Blend is added to the
family and offers customers a rich,
premium-leaf tobacco for a
unique taste.
2004: Pinkerton leads the way in
innovation yet again with Silver
Blend—the first sugar free chew in
the product family and category.
Marks 100 years since the
introduction of John Pinkerton’s
Original Blend.
2022: The name change comes as part of the products 135th anniversary and reflects the success of the #1 product in the category, while providing greater alignment with company values. It also reflects our heightened awareness and desire to be more inclusive.
