Pickle factories began springing up nationwide during the late-19th century after European Jews introduced the snack during waves of immigration to the U.S. People quickly learned that they could enjoy this popular treat year round through the preservation technique of “pickling.” Some pickle factories used big tanks, like the one pictured. Others used ponds in the ground.

Richmond’s pickle factory was built by William McConnell on the west end of town when Richmond was still in its infancy. Later on, the Vogler-Schillo Company, which also built pickle factories in Spring Grove and Genoa City, built one on the north end of town. Census records from the early 1900s list “pickle factory” as a place of employment for many Richmond residents.