Cody, Wyoming – My great grandfather, Robert L. Hancock, Jr. mounted several trips to the K.C. Ranch run by L.D. Frone, about 52 miles outside of Cody, Wyoming near Yellowstone National Park. On one trip, my (step) great grandmother Esther, landed a 12 point elk from 200 yards out with a 30-06 rifle – on her second shot. The only other shooting she’d ever done was target practice.
On a previous trip, Robert L. Hancock, Jr. laid down a 13 pointer, which hangs in the office today.
Bag some peanuts for yourself, here: https://hancockpeanuts.com/
Your great great grandfather was also known as Pap Bob (Robert Lafayette). Your mom & dad (Susan and Roy Duke) have a picture of a bunch of men (above) sitting on a Benthal stationary peanut picker machine. Evidently those guys had a hand in building it. Pap Bob is on the top left in this photo. Big Big Papa is on the right, standing I think. My supposition is that Big Papa primarily got his engineering, machinery fabrication, peanut harvesting and handling education there. – Garth S. Hancock, Jr. | May 18, 2023
HANCOCKS ON THE MOVE
If I have timing correct, I believe RLH JR moved his family to Courtland in 1937. (Maybe Mary Lou “Kitty” Corbett could verify or correct). The motivation was to build a factory/presence for Birdsong Storage/Birdsong Peanuts in the center of the largest peanut producing county in the country. (by acreage allotment under the USDA’s peanut program for sure, and by production on average [I think]). Of course that set of statistics is no longer likely true. Except for quality parameters, there is no peanut program.
I imagine the boys, Robert Larry H, III, Harry Lee, and Garth Stuart accompanied RLH,JR on the initial move. It could well have predated 1937, I seem to remember that date etched in the front porch’s concrete while building a factory and storage facilities, they lived in the tin garage located on what would later become Iris Hill (name Big Momma {Mary MI? Hancock} as they completed the house. None of this (I believe) was built with architectural drawings, evidenced by the expansions of facilities, when I worked there in the 1970’s, that were accomplished without any such formal plans. (Exception was the conical burner for hull disposal mandated by Uncle Sugar around 1973). The Birdsong factory was destroyed by fire. The company wanted RLH JR to return to Suffolk. Evidently the family roots or interests were too deep and he decided then to strike out on his own.
Notes on Birdsong.
Big Papa was certainly a key employee. Otherwise he would not have been tapped to establish a new shelling plant for them in Courtland. I believe Garth S.Hancock, Harry Lee Hancock & Robert L. Hancock, III all worked in their tender youth for Birdsong. On a trip to Atlanta or Dallas for a peanut Administrative Committee meeting I sat with Jimmy Spain, President of Birdsong. He told me about an innovation that BP developed in their flagship plant in Suffolk. It a so simple yet brilliant because it improve the quality of in-shell peanuts delivered.
Garth S. Hancock was friends with Harvard Birdsong, Dad and I often visited with him on occasions we had business or meetings in Suffolk.
At that time while he worked with Birdsong, farmers delivered peanuts to market in fat +/-100 lb bags. Before the final harvest they were stacked (on shocks to dry). Before stacking the vines were dug and were exposed in the field, similar to the first step in harvesting today. If rain ensued prior to stacking, the peanut shells were subject to mold, often resulting in permanent discoloration. Although this did not affect the quality or taste of the kernels inside, it had a profound effect on the eye appeal or appearance of the in-shell product for the consumer’s point of view. In-shell peanuts, free of the mildew speckles or of brightly almost white color would demand a premium price in the market to those who roasted them. Birdsong Peanuts recognizing that such characteristics could be easily separated upon delivery (in bags) to the factory, devised a change to the factory which would deliver the ugly hulled nuts to a “sheller side” keeping the attractive in-shell nuts separate. All that needed to happen with the in-shell side of the mill was to slice the stems from the shells, gravity separate by weight, screen them by size, run them by a visual inspection, then on to packaging in +/- 100 lb bags. Without this initial pre-color separation, the in-shell nuts were mixed and were, at best, separated after completed processing. – Garth S. Hancock, Jr | May 21, 2023
THE PEANUT COMPANY
Took me a month to make a detailed flow chart while working there. There were likely no more than two people other than Dad & Jr who understood it all. Many had a grasp on their part monitored and serviced. Will put together something as simple as I can. We could start by explaining how the seed sheller worked. There is one in the Courtland museum. Someone may have figured out how to keep one of them going. You might find one in Whitley Pnt Co, Sedley if it has not been dismantled. It would be much easier to explain if you could find an operational seed sheller in someone’s farm service business. It ain’t rocket surgery. The one in Sedley was a Carter (not Jimmy) machine. – Garth S. Hancock, Jr | May 22, 2023
THE HANCOCK DRAMA
I (Garth S. Hancock, Jr.) was not working that day in August. I do not know whether this particular day was Thursday. But I usually only worked through Thursday to make it convenient to go early to the NC Outer Banks for the weekend to blow my paycheck. Regardless of that little aside, Mom and Dad (Garth S. Hancock and Josephine E. Hancock) were in Georgia arranging purchase and delivery of farmers’ stock to test the mill as the GA harvest preceded ours. Dad had left me instructions to use my car and leave his ’63 Ford wagon at home. Evidently Uncle Bob was aware of this mandate. As luck would have it, my “60 Comet broke down the night before and was towed to a shop for repairs. I felt justified in using my father’s company car while mine was being repaired. As was often the case, I visited Hancock Peanut Company to say ‘hi’ to those working in the office and elsewhere on the property. Uncle Bob must have made note of my unauthorized use of the wagon.
What followed defied belief. I was in our Courtland home when Bob showed up in our driveway and allowed himself entry. (in those days doors were never locked and keys were in auto ignitions) He found me and to the best of my recollection, without explanation for the punishment he grabbed my shirt collar and pushed my body across the top edge of the television and proceeded to twist my collar choking me. There were bruises around my neck that Frank Daughtry saw evidencing my story. My sisters June and Martha intervened on my behalf and distracted Bob enough that he let me go. I do not recall what he may have done to them, but as I recall they had some (legal) cause of action against him resulting from his behavior. There was sufficient commotion from the confrontation that Mama Annie, Woody, Daddy Buck and whom else I do not know arrived for our assistance. As the numbers swelled Bob decided it was time to go. Reportedly he ran to Jackie and Joy Whitley (and others) to try to paper over his behavior.
“It was Mama Annie (Hedgepeth) who saved your life. One of us ran and got her. She walked in and picked up an empty glass Pepsi bottle that was on the radiator by the door for return. She held the bottle by the neck over Bob’s head. She told Bob to let go off you or she was going to kill him. He let go and left. From then on, as you said, we keep our doors locked night and day.” – June Hancock Gladding | May 30, 2023
To this day, I can only guess he was after me for the unauthorized use of the Wagon.
Someone reached Dad, so he and Momma drove home. Dad proceeded to have lawsuit{s} created to redress our family’s grievances. He packed our family away to rental property on the NC Outer Banks to shield us from Bob’s retaliation.
In response to the threat of legal action Bob offered to sell Dad his 65% interest in Hancock Peanut Company. In 1963 that was more money than God above had in Southampton County. Dad made me his chauffeur as he ran from banker to banker to arrange financing for takeover the company. (Dad’s interest was then 35%, because Bob had made Harry Lee Hancock so miserable that he sold a couple of years, prior to all of this intrigue. In the end, First and Merchants National Bank provided the cash. Garth S. Hancock, Pope and F. Bertram Pulley became partners and they pledged all of their personal assets in addition to Hancock Peanut Company assets to F&M National Bank in Richmond. As an aside, the lead banker was Randy McElRoy. Thereafter F&M had the line of credit for HPC to finance purchase of the farmer’s goods. The law firm that stitched it all together was McGuire, Woods, Battle etc. I cannot recall the percentages, but I believe Pulley 19, Pope 20 Hancock the balance. – Garth S. Hancock, Jr | May 22, 2023
NO. 1 VIRGINIA GRADE
Some marketing genius, when labeling the different peanut grades, designated No. 2 those containing primarily split but edible nuts. Extra Large Virginias (they had to ride on a 20/64″ X 1” screen and count no more than ??? per pound) were basically what you are now shipping. What you are actually shipping are really a little larger than the minimum standard for Extra Large. The next smaller whole shelled nut was/is Medium (riding 18/64″ X 1” etc.), Usually found in little bags of Planters. Finally the Number 1 Virginia rides a 15/64” X 1” screen. It was considered fit for peanut butter or hidden in Girl Scout Cookies.. But No. 1 sounds good, doesn’t it? – Garth S. Hancock, Jr | July 17, 2023
Many weeks ago our awesome USPS carrier, Donna, was with her husband antiquing in Edenton, NC. As it turns out – he spotted a very old Hancock Seed Peanut Sheller sign. This gentleman leaned on his wife until she messaged us about the signs existence. Unfortunately by the time we found the auction site, the sign was gone. It had been purchased by another fan of Hancock Peanuts.
Here’s the photo our above and beyond carrier sent:
So, we took the information we had (above photo) and made a t-shirt, with some slight modifications. You can buy one here, available in (4) colors. We’ll crank out a short sleeve soon. (Keep Reading)
So, fast-forward a few weeks and boom – we got a Facebook message from the gentleman that bought the sign. He just happened to look us up and decided that he wanted us to have it. The cost? Peanuts. That’s right. We traded peanuts for the sign. How awesome is that? There is good in this world! Thank you Mr. Aydlett!
What is this all about you may be asking? Here’s some more history:
A Homegrown Invention
Hancock Peanut Company, a beloved name in the peanut industry, owes much of its success to the ingenuity of its founder, Robert L. Hancock, Jr. One of his most significant contributions to the peanut industry was the invention of the Hancock Seed Peanut Sheller.
A Mechanical Marvel
This innovative machine revolutionized the process of shelling peanuts. Before the invention of the Hancock Seed Peanut Sheller, the process was labor-intensive and time-consuming. Hancock’s machine streamlined the process, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
A Family Legacy
Robert L. Hancock, Jr.’s legacy lives on through the Hancock Peanut Company. The company continues to produce high-quality peanuts, honoring the tradition of innovation and excellence established by its founder.
The Hancock Peanut Sheller: A Symbol of Innovation
The Hancock Seed Peanut Sheller is a testament to the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of Robert L. Hancock, Jr. This invention has had a lasting impact on the peanut industry and continues to be a symbol of the company’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Are you searching for the finest Virginia grade peanuts? Look no further than Hancock Peanut Company. We proudly offer a wide selection of premium peanuts, roasted to perfection and packaged with care.
Why Choose Virginia Grade Peanuts?
Superior Taste: Virginia grade peanuts are renowned for their rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture.
Local Sourcing: We source our peanuts from local Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina farms, supporting our community and ensuring the freshest product.
Looking for a unique and delicious corporate gift that will impress your clients and colleagues? Look no further than Hancock Peanuts! Our premium peanuts are a versatile and memorable gift option that is sure to be a hit.
Why Choose Hancock Peanuts for Corporate Gifts?
High Quality: Our peanuts are sourced from the finest growers and roasted to perfection, ensuring exceptional taste and quality.
Customizable: We offer a personalized note from you. Simply provide the copy and we’ll do the rest.
Versatility: Our peanuts can be enjoyed in various ways, from snacking to adding to recipes.
Memorable: A gift of Hancock Peanuts will leave a lasting impression on your recipients.
Supporting Local Businesses: By choosing Hancock Peanuts, you are supporting a local business and contributing to the community.
Our Easy Corporate Gifting Process:
Contact Us: Reach out to our team and discuss your corporate gifting needs.
Customization: Choose from our customization options & provide your note
Whether you need gifts for clients, employees, or special events, Hancock Peanuts is the perfect choice. Contact us today to place your order and experience the convenience of our corporate gifting service. Get Started!
Pacific Palisades, California – What does Seinfeld have to do with Hancock Peanuts? What’s the deal with these nuts?
Glad you asked. Let’s start with the show.
We’ll begin at the beginning. If you’ve been under a peanut shell for the past few decades, here’s the deal. Seinfeld is a sitcom that redefined the genre, focusing on the ‘everyday lives’ of four friends in New York City. Its popularity and cultural impact are undeniable. They simply can’t be denied. Absent of denial. Are we clear? Seinfeld is the result of comedians Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld joining forces to painstakingly create or maestro 180 episodes of some of the best material out there – and most of it is timeless humor. The show ran from, July 5, 1989, to May 14, 1998. Just two years after Seinfeld had it’s finale, it was already in syndication. What is syndication? It’s simply selling your work (Seinfeld) to other broadcasters to run on their networks to attract new viewers in order to sell more ads. In a nutshell, you get paid to make your show. You get an increase in pay as the performance (viewership) increases. And, once you’re all done (180 episodes and 9 years later) you can sell it to as many broadcasters or streamers (Netflix) out there. That happens if you have a good agent, or in this case one of the greats – George Shapiro. Shapiro was a hugely successful manager in show business, and was best known for representing Jerry Seinfeld, Carl Reiner, and Andy Kaufman. Syndication in short is a cash register for the folks that put in the work and, luckily for them – it paid off – and still is paying off. But, don’t dismiss the key thing here – which is ALL the work it takes to make that happen. The writers, the producers, the crew, the assistants and of course – the cast. Jerry, George, Elaine and Kramer. The ultimate foursome. The finale of the series ended with over 76,000,000 viewers. As of March 2024, Seinfeld was the third most-streamed TV show in the United States, with 5.1 million viewers. It doesn’t stop there, but we will -to keep things moving.
The characters on the show, aside from being defined by their timing, comedic prowess and the ‘no hugging, no learning’ mantra of the show – were chiseled – or rather stitched into our minds through their now trademark wardrobes. A few years ago (November 10, 2020) an Instagram account surfaced with the handle “seinfeldbackstage” – so, naturally we followed. Technology during Seinfeld was not what it is today -as a reminder. If you wanted to take photos – your camera wasn’t always in your pocket. You had to be intentional and you had to think about it. Stephanie Kennedy did both. She was with the show for over half of it’s life, or 95 episodes – if you’re counting – and she did some documenting. As intentional as she was then, she remains. In 4 years she’s shared just 160 moments and other tid-bits and fun-facts – which has garnered the eyes of over 41,000 followers of her own. If you are a fan of the series or behind the scenes information, it’s wonderful. I fall into both of those buckets.
Getting on with the show.
As a fan of the series, I messaged the account / Stephanie Kennedy and asked if I could mail her some peanuts. After so many years of laughter that continue to this day, it felt like the right thing to do. She accepted and happily realized that Hancock Peanuts are in fact excellent, as advertised. Like the Seinfeld cast and crew, our peanuts are from the top 1% of the crop. We exchanged our pleasantries and moved along. Having 40k followers is great, but it’s work. Can you imagine how many people message her about anything Seinfeld related on a whim? (with measured guilt)
You Wanna Get Nuts? Let’s Get Nuts!
On a beautiful summer day in August, I received a message from ‘SeinfeldBackstage’. What could it be about? With a handful of peanuts in one hand, and a gleam in my eyes – I opened the message. It seems Hancock Peanuts left a solid impression on Stephanie’s taste buds. What came next was pure icing on the peanut-shaped cake. Stephanie and some other cast and crew members were working in sync to host a Seinfeld Party, exclusive to those that worked on the greatest series of all time! Yes, I asked if I could come. No, I could not. (Ha! No shame) To that end, she politely inquired if we had any interest in supplying them with peanuts for the party. :drops phone: YES. YES. YES.
Shut the door. Hold the phone. The answer is YES. It was YES before the question was asked. So, you’re telling me that a show I love and know probably too much about – is having a reunion party of sorts – and they’ll snack on some Hancock Peanuts? Where do I sign up? Within a short time we worked out how many might attend, and then I shipped out a bit more. Better to have too many nuts than not enough nuts. I sent off the peanuts, both salted cocktail nuts and honey roasted as well as coasters and coozies. Sidebar: The coozies were also made with a gentle nod to Seinfeld way before we connected. “You Wanna Get Nuts? Let’s Get Nuts!” is a line George screamed in one episode that always made me laugh, so it is fitting that I sent my entire inventory of those to the folks that made it happen; in essence sending them home. Talk about nuts. Chocolate covered were not yet in season due to temps, so as a ‘thank you’ I mailed Stephanie a can of those with my thanks just recently.
It was such an honor to be asked, and to be able to provide Hancock Peanuts for the cast and crew that attended The Seinfeld Party! I also want to thank these three troopers for doing a little peanut pose. It means a lot. Thank you much! – Scott
Thank you for the pictures, Stephanie Kennedy and for the awesome opportunity!
About Hancock Peanut Company
Hancock Peanut Company has been around since 1944. Founder Robert L. Hancock actually carved the very first “Mr. Peanut”. For generations, their commitment to quality and freshness has ensured their peanuts remain a favorite snack for families across the land. Hancock Peanuts uses only the finest ingredients and time-tested recipes to deliver delicious, all-natural peanuts.
Here’s a shirt I designed in honor of the show: “Available in sizes from Elaine all the way up to Newman. So, whether you’re going to see ‘Cry, Cry Again’ or going to the coffee shop for a slice of apple pie and a big salad, this is the shirt for you. We already took out the candy-striped liner ahead of time so you can wear this anywhere. Embrace the Summer of George, all year long! 👕☀️” – Want One? Shop Here.
As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, it’s time to indulge in the seasonal delights of fall. One such treat that perfectly captures the essence of the season is chocolate-covered peanuts from Hancock Peanut Company. These decadent snacks offer a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, making them the ideal indulgence for autumn.
A Taste of Fall
Chocolate-covered peanuts are a classic fall treat that has been enjoyed for generations. The rich, creamy chocolate perfectly complements the savory crunch of peanuts, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you prefer milk chocolate, salted or honey roasted, Hancock Peanut Company has a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
Beyond their delicious taste, chocolate-covered peanuts offer a nutritional boost. Peanuts are packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. This provides antioxidants and flavonoids, which have been linked to various health benefits.
Perfect for Snacking and Gifting
Chocolate-covered peanuts make the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely afternoon at home, watching a football game, or simply need a quick energy boost, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
They also make excellent gifts for friends, family, and colleagues. A can of chocolate covered peanuts is a thoughtful and delicious present that is sure to be appreciated.
Pre-Order Your Chocolate-Covered Peanuts Today
Don’t miss out on this seasonal indulgence! Place your pre-order for chocolate-covered peanuts from Hancock Peanut Company today and enjoy these delectable treats all fall long. PRO TIP: Order extra and store them in a cool place, or your refrigerator to last you through next summer. Our vacuum sealed cans keep peanuts fresh for 15 months from the date of production.
Hancock Peanut Company takes immense pride in offering the pinnacle of peanut perfection: our Salted Cocktail Nuts. These aren’t just peanuts; they’re a culinary experience. Carefully selected from the top 1% of our crop, these jumbo peanuts boast an unparalleled crunch and a flavor profile that is simply irresistible.
The Art of Selection
Crafting the perfect salted cocktail nut requires an unwavering commitment to quality. Our expert team meticulously selects only the largest, most flavorful peanuts from each harvest. These exceptional legumes undergo a rigorous process to ensure they meet our exacting standards. The result is a nut that is not only visually impressive but also delivers an extraordinary taste sensation.
A Symphony of Flavor
The combination of size, texture, and saltiness creates a symphony of flavor that elevates the humble peanut to new heights. Each nut offers a satisfying crunch, followed by a burst of salty goodness. Whether enjoyed on their own or as a complement to your favorite beverages, Hancock Salted Cocktail Nuts are the perfect indulgence.
Versatility at Its Finest
Our salted cocktail nuts are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. They make the perfect party appetizer, a satisfying snack for game day, or a delightful treat to unwind with after a long day. Their impressive size and bold flavor also make them a standout gift for any occasion.
Packed with Nutrition
Beyond their exceptional taste, Hancock Peanuts are a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that fuels your body and mind.
Experience the Hancock Difference
We invite you to savor the extraordinary taste of our Salted Cocktail Nuts. Discover why they are the preferred choice for discerning snackers and the perfect addition to any gathering.
Hurricane season is upon us once again, reminding us of the importance of preparedness. As you gather essential supplies like water, batteries, and non-perishable food, don’t forget to include a stockpile of Hancock Peanuts in your emergency kit.
Why Hancock Peanuts are a Hurricane Essential
Long Shelf Life: Peanuts are a non-perishable food that can be stored for extended periods without refrigeration. This makes them an ideal emergency food supply. Our vacuum sealed cans last 15 months from production date.
Packed with Nutrition: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, peanuts provide sustained energy and support overall health during and after a storm.
Versatile Snack: Whether enjoyed on their own or as an ingredient in homemade trail mix or energy bars, peanuts offer endless snacking possibilities.
Compact and Lightweight: Easy to store and transport, Hancock Peanuts are perfect for emergency kits and grab-and-go bags.
Building Your Hurricane Supply Kit
In addition to Hancock Peanuts, your emergency kit should include the following items:
Water: Store at least a gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
Non-perishable food: Include a variety of foods like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit.
First aid kit: Stock a well-stocked first aid kit with essential supplies.
Flashlights and batteries: Have multiple flashlights and plenty of batteries on hand.
Battery-powered radio: Stay informed about weather updates and emergency alerts.
Important documents: Keep copies of important documents, such as insurance policies and identification, in a waterproof container.
Stay Safe and Prepared
Remember, the key to surviving a hurricane is preparation. By stocking up on essential supplies, including Hancock Peanuts, you can increase your chances of staying safe and comfortable during and after the storm.
Hancock Peanuts wishes you a safe and hurricane-free season. For us, we got Hurricane Debby.
When the school bell rings, the hunger pangs kick in. Parents strive to provide kids with nutritious and delicious snacks that fuel their bodies and minds. Look no further than Hancock Peanuts – the perfect after-school pick-me-up!
Why Hancock Peanuts are the Ultimate After-School Snack
Packed with Protein:Peanuts are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, essential for growing bodies. After a long day of learning, kids need fuel to recharge their energy levels.
Healthy Fats: These good fats support brain health and cognitive function, helping kids focus and learn.
Vitamins and Minerals:Peanuts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, contributing to overall well-being.
Convenient and Portable: Kids can enjoy them in the car, on the bus, or at sports practice.
Delicious Taste: With their irresistible crunch and satisfying flavor, Hancock Peanuts are a kid-favorite snack.
Beyond the Snack: Hancock Peanut Gear
To make the after-school experience even more fun, we’ve created a line of cool merchandise featuring our beloved peanuts. Our collection includes:
Eye-catching T-shirts: Show off your love for Hancock Peanuts with our stylish and comfortable t-shirts. Perfect for school days or casual outings.
Versatile Tumblers: Keep your drinks hot or cold with our durable and eco-friendly tumblers. Ideal for school lunches or on-the-go adventures.
Classic Richardson Hats: Protect yourself from the sun while showcasing your Hancock Peanuts pride with our stylish Richardson hats.
Fuel Your Child’s Potential with Hancock Peanuts
By choosing Hancock Peanuts as your child’s after-school snack, you’re not only providing them with a nutritious and delicious treat but also supporting a company committed to quality and sustainability. We use only the finest peanuts and employ sustainable farming practices to ensure our products meet the highest standards.
Join the Hancock Peanut Family
We encourage you to try our delicious peanuts and explore our fun merchandise. Let’s work together to make after-school snack time a healthy and enjoyable experience for your kids.
