History of Isaly’s: From Ohio to Pittsburgh
Isaly’s, a beloved chain of dairy stores and restaurants, holds a special place in the hearts of many. While it may be surprising to some, Isaly’s actually originated in Ohio before making its way to Pittsburgh in the early 1930s. Let’s trace the fascinating journey of Isaly’s from its humble beginnings to becoming a Pittsburgh institution.
The Isaly’s Family Legacy
The story of Isaly’s begins with William Isaly, the grandson of Swiss immigrants, who settled in Monroe County, Ohio, in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, William started the family’s dairy-distribution business in Mansfield, Ohio, with a milk plant and delivery routes. The company quickly expanded to Marion, Ohio, and Youngstown, Ohio, where they opened franchised stores in 1918, offering a variety of high-quality dairy products and ice cream treats.
Henry Isaly’s Arrival in Pittsburgh
In 1929, Henry Isaly, the youngest of William and Louisa Isaly’s six children, moved to Pittsburgh. Henry initially found employment at Donahoe’s, another well-known cafeteria-bakery-food emporium in Downtown Pittsburgh. His goal was to familiarize himself with the city and its people, gathering insights that would prove invaluable in the years to come.
Isaly’s Expansion into Pittsburgh
Expanding into the Pittsburgh market was a significant risk for Isaly’s, as National Dairy had a stronghold on the dairy market in the area. However, Isaly’s persevered and built a plant in Oakland on the Boulevard of the Allies. They opened dairy-and-deli stores throughout southwestern Pennsylvania, offering their signature products, such as their tall ice cream cones known as “Skyscrapers” and the popular Klondike bars.
The Magic of Isaly’s
Isaly’s gained a loyal following in Pittsburgh, thanks to the quality of their products and their commitment to cleanliness and attractive stores. Three items, in particular, played a significant role in establishing Isaly’s as a beloved institution in the city: the Skyscrapers, the Klondike bars, and their famous chipped ham. These items became synonymous with Isaly’s and contributed to the enduring “magic” that Pittsburghers associate with the brand.
Claire Hatch and the Creation of Chipped Ham
Claire Hatch, a young man who worked alongside Henry Isaly, played a crucial role in Isaly’s success in Pittsburgh. Hatch helped find prime locations for new stores, set high standards for the shops, and is often credited with the creation of “chipped ham.” By slicing pressed ham incredibly thin, Hatch transformed it into an economical and delicious deli product that quickly became a signature item in Isaly’s stores.
The Rise and Challenges of Isaly’s
Isaly’s experienced rapid growth throughout the 20th century, with nearly 400 stores at its peak. However, various factors slowed the company’s expansion in the 1960s. The rise of fast food and the increasing popularity of supermarkets posed challenges to Isaly’s traditional model. Tragically, Henry Isaly passed away in 1961, leaving a void at the helm of the company. Additionally, Claire Hatch eventually left Isaly’s to establish his own chain of Eat’n Park family restaurants.
The Legacy Lives On
Despite facing difficulties, Isaly’s left an indelible mark on Pittsburgh. The brand may have disappeared as a company, but its legacy lives on in the memories of Pittsburghers and a few stores that continue to honor Isaly’s recipes and traditions. The iconic chipped ham, sometimes marketed as “chipped-chopped ham,” remains a popular item in the Pittsburgh region. Recently, Conroy Foods acquired the Isaly’s brand and is reviving several flavors of Isaly’s ice cream under the name “Isaly’s LLC.”
Isaly’s journey from Ohio to Pittsburgh is a testament to the power of quality products, dedication to customer service, and the ability to adapt to changing times. Although Isaly’s may no longer be a bustling chain, its impact on Pittsburgh’s culinary history cannot be overstated. From the Skyscrapers to the Klondike bars and the beloved chipped ham, Isaly’s has left an enduring legacy in the hearts and taste buds of Pittsburghers, ensuring that its magic lives on for generations to come.
