Why Hancock Peanut Company Should Be Your Go-To Source for Premium Peanuts

As we move into 2025, the demand for peanuts is set to continue its upward trajectory, driven by evolving consumer preferences, health-conscious trends, and innovative food products. Peanut consumption is experiencing a major surge globally, and whether you’re a retailer, manufacturer, or consumer, it’s important to stay ahead of this growing trend. Shop’m here. 

Key Trends Driving Peanut Demand in 2025

1. Health and Wellness Focus Peanuts have long been valued for their nutritional benefits, and with the rise of health-conscious eating, this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Peanuts are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, which makes them a staple for plant-based diets and athletes alike. As more consumers seek natural, nutrient-dense foods, peanuts are becoming a go-to snack and ingredient in many health-focused products. Expect this to continue in 2025, with peanuts being featured in everything from smoothies and protein bars to vegan cheese alternatives.
2. Peanut-Based Products On the Rise From peanut butter to peanut flour, oil, and even peanut milk, there is an increasing diversity of peanut-based products on the market. In 2025, innovations in food technology will make peanuts even more versatile, expanding their role in gluten-free, keto, and plant-based products. Major food brands are already experimenting with peanut butter alternatives, while small startups are developing new uses for peanuts in snack foods and protein-rich meals.
3. Sustainability and Traceability Sustainability continues to be a key concern for consumers, and peanuts are gaining attention for their relatively low environmental impact compared to other protein sources like beef. Peanuts use less water and land, and they enrich the soil they grow in by fixing nitrogen. This makes peanuts an environmentally friendly crop, which is a huge selling point as consumers and manufacturers increasingly prioritize sustainable sourcing. In 2025, this trend is expected to continue, with more transparency about where peanuts are sourced and how they’re grown.
4. Global Demand While peanuts have long been a staple in the U.S., global demand is rising rapidly, particularly in emerging markets. The growth of middle-class populations in countries like China and India has sparked increased interest in peanut-based products, and this trend is expected to continue in 2025. As these markets expand, peanut farmers and suppliers will be focused on meeting the needs of both domestic and international consumers.

Why Choose Hancock Peanut Company?

With this surge in demand and innovation, it’s essential to source your peanuts from a reliable, high-quality supplier. Hancock Peanut Company stands out as a top choice for premium peanuts. With years of expertise in the peanut industry, Hancock is committed to providing fresh, high-quality peanuts that meet the needs of today’s consumers. Whether you’re a snack company looking to add a fantastic product or a retailer stocking shelves with the best snacks on the market, Hancock Peanut Company offers a range of products to meet your needs.

Why Hancock Peanut Company?

• Quality and Freshness: Hancock sources only the best peanuts, ensuring that every batch is fresh and ready to meet the highest quality standards.
• Sustainability: Hancock is dedicated to environmentally responsible farming practices, making it a great choice for companies and consumers focused on sustainability.
• Versatility: From roasted peanuts to peanut butter and peanut oil, Hancock offers a diverse selection of peanut products to cater to your unique business needs.
• Global Reach: With an established reputation and the infrastructure to supply large quantities, Hancock is equipped to meet the growing global demand for peanuts.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, the peanut industry is poised for exciting growth. With rising demand driven by health trends, sustainability efforts, and product innovation, peanuts are in a prime position to become even more embedded in our everyday diets. For anyone looking to capitalize on this growing market, Hancock Peanut Company is the trusted partner to ensure your business is ahead of the curve.

Don’t wait for the future to arrive—buy your peanuts from Hancock Peanut Company today and be ready for what’s next!

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In the world of peanuts, few names are as iconic as Mr. Peanut, the monocle-wearing, top-hatted mascot of Planters Peanuts. But behind this beloved figure, and the convenience of a modern peanut sheller, lies the remarkable story of one man: Robert L. Hancock. An inventor, craftsman, and visionary, Hancock revolutionized the peanut industry with his creation of the peanut sheller, and he also carved the very first likeness of Mr. Peanut by hand from a simple drawing a child submitted in a contest held by Planters.  His legacy, though not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, has had a lasting impact on the peanut industry and American culture.

A Man of Innovation: The Peanut Sheller

The peanut has been a staple of the American diet for centuries, but for much of that time, harvesting and processing peanuts was a labor-intensive task. Farmers had to manually remove the shells from the nuts, a tedious and time-consuming process that could take hours of hard work. Enter Robert L. Hancock, whose ingenuity would change that forever.

In the early 20th century, as the peanut industry was growing, there was a need for a machine that could efficiently and quickly shell peanuts, making it easier for farmers to process larger quantities. Hancock, who was already a skilled engineer and inventor, rose to the challenge. Drawing on his knowledge of mechanics and his understanding of the needs of peanut farmers, he developed the peanut sheller, a machine designed to automate the shelling process.

The invention was a breakthrough in agricultural technology, and it helped to streamline the peanut processing industry. By reducing the time and effort required to shell peanuts, Hancock’s invention allowed for greater production and made peanuts more accessible to the masses. Farmers and processors quickly adopted the machine, and its widespread use revolutionized the way peanuts were harvested and processed.

Hancock’s peanut sheller was not just a mechanical marvel; it was a testament to his creative problem-solving and his ability to innovate in a way that had a tangible, lasting impact on the agricultural world. His machine made it possible for peanuts to go from the farm to the factory floor in record time, helping to drive the growth of the peanut industry and transforming peanuts into the widely consumed commodity they are today.

The Birth of Mr. Peanut: A Hand-Carved Icon

But Hancock’s contributions didn’t stop at machinery. He also played an instrumental role in creating one of the most famous advertising mascots in history: Mr. Peanut.

The creation of Mr. Peanut is often credited to Planters Peanuts in 1916, when the company decided it needed a mascot to market its peanuts more effectively. However, the origins of Mr. Peanut are closely tied to Robert L. Hancock, who not only came up with the idea for the character but also carved the first likeness of Mr. Peanut by hand.

Hancock’s creation was a simple but elegant design: a dapper gentleman in a top hat, with a monocle over one eye, a cane in hand, and a bow tie around his neck. This refined yet playful figure embodied the spirit of Planters Peanuts—premium, high-quality peanuts for the discerning consumer. Hancock’s hand-carved model became the basis for the beloved mascot, which would go on to become a central part of Planters’ advertising and branding for decades.

Though the story of Mr. Peanut’s creation is often overshadowed by the larger marketing machine behind the character, Hancock’s role as the originator of the design cannot be overstated. He crafted Mr. Peanut with the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that characterized his work with the peanut sheller. This iconic figure, with his stately appearance and cheeky charm, quickly became synonymous with the Planters brand and remains a cultural touchstone to this day.

A Legacy of Innovation and Craftsmanship

Robert L. Hancock was not just an inventor, but a man whose work bridged the worlds of practical innovation and artistic craftsmanship. His peanut sheller made a lasting impact on the agricultural industry, improving the efficiency of peanut harvesting and processing. At the same time, his creation of Mr. Peanut introduced a character that has endured for more than a century, bringing joy and recognition to millions of people.

Hancock’s legacy lives on in the machines that still process peanuts around the world and in the recognizable top-hat-and-monocle figure that continues to represent the Planters brand. Though he may not be as widely known as other inventors or figures in the agricultural industry, his contributions were nothing short of transformative. In a way, his impact can still be felt every time we crack open a peanut shell or see the familiar face of Mr. Peanut in an advertisement.

As we reflect on Robert L. Hancock’s remarkable career, we are reminded of the power of ingenuity and creativity. His work was not just about making things more efficient; it was about making the world of peanuts more fun, more engaging, and more accessible to people from all walks of life. For that, we owe him a debt of gratitude—one that will last as long as peanuts are part of our lives.

Taste the legacy by ordering a few cans today here.

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On December 29, 2024, the world lost one of its most distinguished figures—James Earl Carter Jr., the 39th President of the United States, former Navy officer, dedicated humanitarian, and yes, the world’s most famous peanut farmer. Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the remarkable age of 100, leaves behind a legacy that spans far beyond politics. His life was defined by service, humility, and an unwavering commitment to bettering the world in all his endeavors.

Early Life and the Peanut Farm
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Jimmy Carter grew up in a small town that would forever shape his worldview. Carter’s early years on the farm would leave an indelible mark on his character, and those lessons would stay with him throughout his life.

Carter’s journey into farming was not without challenges. The young man, always inquisitive and hands-on, took over the family peanut farm after his father’s death in the mid-1950s. Through his diligence and vision, he transformed the farm, improving productivity and introducing innovative techniques that garnered both local and regional attention. His ability to blend agriculture with entrepreneurial spirit earned him a reputation in the farming community, and he eventually opened a peanut warehouse business, further solidifying his deep ties to the agricultural industry.

But Carter’s approach to farming was never just about business. He had a profound respect for the land and a belief in ethical stewardship. It was during these formative years that he learned the value of honest work, compassion, and the interconnectedness of communities—values he carried into his political career and later into his post-presidency humanitarian efforts.

Politics: A Mission of Service
Jimmy Carter’s political career began in Georgia’s state senate, but it was his election to the presidency in 1976 that brought him to global prominence. Carter’s presidency was marked by a commitment to human rights, environmental sustainability, and peace. His famous Camp David Accords brokered peace between Egypt and Israel, a landmark achievement that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. His time in office was not without controversy, particularly during the Iran hostage crisis and economic challenges, but his legacy as a moral leader and a champion of diplomacy remains undeniable.

Yet, even as President, Carter never lost touch with his roots. His down-to-earth nature, often compared to the aristocratic distance of many of his contemporaries, made him relatable to ordinary Americans. His southern accent and modest demeanor spoke to a man who was grounded in the principles of his upbringing.

Retirement: A Lifelong Commitment to Humanity
Carter’s post-presidency years were perhaps the most defining phase of his life. After leaving the White House in 1981, he turned his focus to humanitarian work, working tirelessly for peace, social justice, and the eradication of diseases such as Guinea worm disease. Through the Carter Center, founded in 1982, Carter worked to advance democracy, alleviate suffering, and promote global health. His efforts in conflict resolution, election monitoring, and disease eradication have had a profound impact on millions of people around the world.

Perhaps most emblematic of Carter’s character in his later years was his work with Habitat for Humanity, the global nonprofit organization dedicated to building homes for those in need. Jimmy and his wife, Rosalynn, dedicated significant time and effort to helping build homes for families, using their fame not for personal gain, but to lift up those less fortunate.

Carter’s humility and willingness to roll up his sleeves alongside volunteers made him beloved by many. While other former presidents lived in luxury, Carter chose to live a life of simplicity. He and Rosalynn remained in their modest home in Plains, Georgia, where he could be close to the people and the land that had shaped him.

A Century of Service
At the age of 100, Jimmy Carter had achieved more than most could in multiple lifetimes. His life was a study in perseverance, kindness, and service to others. Whether through his peanut farm, his presidency, or his post-presidential humanitarian work, Carter’s life exemplified the idea that greatness is not defined by titles or wealth, but by the impact one has on the world and the people around them.

Jimmy Carter’s passing marks the end of a century-long journey, but his legacy will live on. He demonstrated that leadership is not just about making decisions in the halls of power, but about living out one’s principles through action and empathy. As a peanut farmer, a president, a peace-builder, and a global humanitarian, Carter will be remembered not for his titles or accolades, but for the quiet, steadfast way he gave of himself to others.

In his own words, Jimmy Carter once said, “We should live our lives as though Christ were coming this afternoon.” A life well lived, indeed.

Treat yourself to a few cans of Hancock Peanuts in honor of President Carter. 

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Peanuts have long been a beloved treat, not just for their taste but for their versatility in various cuisines and cultures. From holiday celebrations to festive snacks, peanuts have been incorporated in different ways throughout the years, making them a true global food tradition. This article delves into the history of peanuts as they’ve been used during holidays around the world, with a particular focus on the contributions of Hancock Peanut Company, a key player in the peanut industry.

The Origins of Peanuts in Holiday Celebrations

The history of peanuts dates back thousands of years, but their role in holiday traditions really began to take off in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The peanut plant, native to South America, was brought to North America by European settlers. As the peanut industry grew, so did its cultural relevance, with peanuts becoming a staple of both everyday meals and festive treats during special occasions and holidays.

While peanuts were cultivated as a major crop in the southern United States, it was during the late 1800s when people began to associate peanuts with popular events. The holiday season, particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas, became the time when peanuts truly shone in recipes and celebrations.

Peanuts in American Holiday Traditions

In the United States, peanuts have a prominent place in both Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. One of the most iconic representations of peanuts during these holidays is the beloved peanut brittle, a sweet, crunchy treat enjoyed by many families during the Christmas season. The mixture of peanuts, sugar, corn syrup, and butter has made peanut brittle a holiday favorite across generations.

Another major holiday where peanuts play a central role is New Year’s Eve, particularly in the southern United States. It is tradition in the South to eat black-eyed peas and peanuts as a way of ensuring good luck in the upcoming year. In many families, peanuts are often roasted and served as a snack for guests ringing in the New Year, an easy yet delicious way to share the holiday spirit.

Additionally, peanuts have found their way into popular holiday dishes. Peanut butter pie, peanut-studded fruitcakes, and peanut butter fudge are all common holiday desserts in the U.S. Peanut butter, in particular, has become an essential ingredient in countless holiday-themed treats, from cookies to candies.

Hancock Peanut Company, a family-owned business, has been part of this peanut-centric holiday tradition for decades. With its rich heritage in growing, roasting, and distributing peanuts, Hancock Peanut Company has contributed to the widespread availability of high-quality peanuts used in holiday cooking and snacking. Their products are featured in many of the sweet treats and snacks enjoyed during holiday gatherings, playing a pivotal role in keeping peanuts a central part of American holiday celebrations.

Peanuts Around the World: A Global Holiday Ingredient

Peanuts are not just a staple in the United States; they are celebrated around the world, making appearances in holiday meals and customs from Asia to Africa. Let’s explore how peanuts have been woven into holiday traditions across different cultures.

Chinese New Year

In China, peanuts are considered a symbol of longevity and good fortune, making them an essential part of the Chinese New Year celebrations. During this time, peanuts are often roasted, salted, and offered as snacks, and sometimes they appear in mooncakes, the traditional pastry enjoyed during the Lunar New Year. Peanuts are not only enjoyed for their flavor, but also because they are believed to bring prosperity and a long life, making them an important component of the new year’s feast.

Holi Festival in India

In India, peanuts are a popular ingredient during Holi, the colorful festival of spring. Peanuts are used in traditional sweets like moong dal chikki (a peanut and jaggery brittle) and tilgul, a sweet made from peanuts, sesame seeds, and jaggery, which is exchanged as a gesture of goodwill during the festival. These peanut-based treats are shared among family and friends as a symbol of sweetness and togetherness.

Africa: Peanuts in Holiday Feasts

In many parts of West Africa, peanuts are a key ingredient in holiday feasts. During celebrations such as Kwanzaa (which was inspired by African harvest festivals) and Christmas, peanuts are often ground into a paste to create sauces or stews served with rice or meat. In countries like Senegal and Nigeria, peanuts are also used to make peanut soups—rich, savory dishes that provide warmth and flavor to the holiday table.

Peanut-based treats like groundnut cakes or peanut brittle are common throughout the African continent during festive seasons, embodying both the cultural importance and versatility of peanuts in local cuisine.

Hancock Peanut Company: A Tradition of Quality

Throughout these global holidays, one company has remained dedicated to producing high-quality peanuts: Hancock Peanut Company. Founded in 1944, Hancock Peanut Company has always focused on delivering premium peanuts for families to enjoy. Known for their commitment to quality, Hancock grows, roasts, and packages peanuts that end up in homes across the United States, whether in peanut brittle, snack mixes, or as roasted peanuts at holiday parties. With a history spanning over 80 years, Hancock Peanut Company has built a reputation as a leader in the peanut industry.

A Global Nut for All Seasons

As we can see, peanuts are more than just a snack; they are a cherished part of holiday celebrations across the globe. From the United States to China, India, and Africa, peanuts have earned their place in the traditions of many cultures, providing warmth, joy, and a little bit of luck during the holiday season. Hancock Peanut Company, with its long-standing commitment to providing the best peanuts, has played a vital role in keeping this tradition alive. Whether it’s in a holiday dessert, a savory dish, or a simple snack, peanuts continue to be a delicious and meaningful part of the holidays around the world.

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The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and delicious treats. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, looking for the perfect gift, or just indulging in some seasonal snacks, Hancock Peanuts should be at the top of your list. Known for their premium quality and rich, unforgettable taste, Hancock Peanuts offer a delightful and wholesome addition to any holiday celebration. Here’s why Hancock Peanuts are the ultimate choice this holiday season.

1. A Tradition of Excellence

For decades, Hancock Peanuts has been a trusted name in the peanut industry. With roots going back to the invention of The Original Hancock Seed Peanut Sheller by Robert L. Hancock Jr., the company has continued to provide top-notch peanuts that are grown with care and processed with precision. This holiday season, when you choose Hancock Peanuts, you’re choosing a brand built on a legacy of excellence, quality, and innovation.

2. Freshness You Can Taste

What makes Hancock Peanuts stand out is their commitment to freshness. Grown in the best peanut-producing regions and carefully processed, Hancock Peanuts maintain their crunch, flavor, and quality. Whether you’re serving them as a snack at a holiday party or gifting them to loved ones, Hancock Peanuts ensure a premium taste experience that everyone will enjoy. The natural sweetness and salty crunch are perfect for snacking, mixing into holiday dishes, or using in baking.

3. A Healthy Holiday Snack

During the holidays, it’s easy to indulge in heavier treats. But Hancock Peanuts offer a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, they provide a satisfying and nutritious snack option for all ages. Whether you’re enjoying them by the handful or adding them to your favorite recipes, Hancock Peanuts are a great way to indulge without the guilt.

4. Versatile and Delicious

Hancock Peanuts aren’t just for snacking—they’re incredibly versatile. You can use them in holiday recipes, such as peanut brittle, chocolate peanut clusters, or even roasted peanut stuffing for a turkey. They make great additions to salads, desserts, and homemade trail mix, adding a festive touch to any dish. Hancock Peanuts can also be the star of your charcuterie board or a topping for your holiday desserts.

5. Perfect for Gifting

Looking for a unique and thoughtful gift for the peanut lover in your life? Hancock Peanuts make the ideal present. With a variety of flavors and packaging options available at hancockpeanuts.com, you can find the perfect gift for anyone—from gourmet gift sets to premium roasted peanuts. Whether you’re sending a holiday care package to a friend or treating your family to a delicious peanut gift, Hancock Peanuts are sure to impress.

6. Sustainably Sourced and Locally Grown

Hancock Peanuts is dedicated to sustainability. The company partners with local farmers and uses environmentally-friendly practices to ensure the highest quality peanuts while also supporting responsible farming. When you purchase Hancock Peanuts this holiday season, you’re supporting a company that cares about both the environment and the communities it works with.

7. A Gift That Keeps on Giving

What better way to celebrate the spirit of the holidays than by sharing a delicious snack with your friends and family? Hancock Peanuts are perfect for everyone—whether you’re hosting a holiday party, gifting a delicious treat, or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire. When you choose Hancock Peanuts, you’re not just giving a snack; you’re giving a memorable experience that brings people together.

This holiday season, make sure Hancock Peanuts are part of your celebration. With their rich history, incredible freshness, versatility in the kitchen, and the health benefits they offer, they’re the ideal snack for the holidays. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift, a treat to share with friends and family, or simply want to enjoy a tasty snack, Hancock Peanuts bring the best of tradition and taste to every occasion.

Visit hancockpeanuts.com today to explore their full range of products and make Hancock Peanuts your go-to choice this holiday season. Happy holidays, and enjoy the unforgettable taste of Hancock Peanuts!

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Chocolate chip peanut cookies have an undeniable connection to the holiday season. Their warm, comforting aroma fills the air, bringing a sense of nostalgia and joy. The classic combination of buttery dough, sweet chocolate chips, and a hint of vanilla is a beloved tradition that brings families and friends together.

Yield: 1½ dozen 5-inch cookies

• 2 cups minus 2 tablespoons cake flour (8½ ounces
• 1⅔ cups bread flour (8½ ounces)
• 1¼ teaspoons baking soda
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ teaspoons coarse salt
• 1¼ cups unsalted butter (2½ sticks)
• 1¼ cups light brown sugar (10 ounces)
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (8 ounces)
• 2 big eggs
• 2 teaspoons natural vanilla extract
• 1¼ pounds chocolate disks
• Sea Salt

Step One:

Sift flours, baking soda, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Place aside.

Step Two:

Using a mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream butter and sugars together until very light, normally about 5 minutes.

Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each one. Stir in vanilla. Reduce mixer speed to low, add dry ingredients and mix until just combined, 5 to 10 seconds. Drop chocolate pieces in and incorporate them without breaking them. Press plastic wrap against dough and refrigerate for 24 to 36 hours. Dough may be used in batches, and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Step Three:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.

Set aside.

Step Four:

Scoop 6 3½-ounce mounds of dough (the size of generous golf balls) onto baking sheet, making sure to turn horizontally any chocolate pieces that are poking up; it will make for a more attractive cookie. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt and bake until golden brown but still soft, 18 to 20 minutes.

Transfer sheet to a wire rack for 10 minutes, then slip cookies onto another rack to cool a bit more. Repeat with remaining dough, or reserve dough, refrigerated, for baking remaining batches the next day. Eat warm, with a big napkin.

Step Five:

The Chef’s Kiss: Add a couple Chocolate Covered Peanuts atop your delicious creation to send it over the moon.

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THE PEANUT SHELLER

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.

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 

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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.

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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.
• Variety of Options: Choose from a variety of flavors, including salted, honey-roasted, and the much sought after chocolate covered. (seasonal)
• High Quality: We are committed to providing the highest quality peanuts, roasted to perfection.
• Versatility: Virginia grade peanuts are perfect for snacking, adding to recipes, or using in trail mixes.

Shop Our Selection Today

You can also place your order online for convenient delivery.

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