From vintage décor to candy jars filled with nostalgia, Racheal Kehler’s Peppermint Stick Candy Store has become a Boyertown staple and a sweet reminder of community spirit.

In 1828 Boyertown Pennsylvania was founded by the Boyer brothers, Henry and Daniel. However, since then there have been many entrepreneurs who have kept the town lively, one such person as Racheal Kehler.

Racheal is a community member who opened her own candy shop in Boyertown in 2015 named The Peppermint Stick Candy Shop and Ice Cream Parlor. In September of 2024, she decided to expand the shop after the next door dentist moved his office to Gilbertsville.

 In this extension, she added an ice cream parlor which features classic sundaes, banana splits, and a soda jerk menu.  The shop is now located at 26 E Philadelphia Avenue, however it originated at 9 South Washington Street. 

When asked about why she opened her store, she said, “One day I was in town and the train came back and people walked onto the sidewalk, wanting to explore the town. So I thought to myself, what is the perfect business for tourists and the people who live here.”

Outside of managing her own business, she participates in various other organizations. Not only does she lead the peppermint stick as the boss, but she is also the president of the historical society. 

When asked what inspires her to be a part of these different events, she responded, “I have always been very creative, and I really love doing events.”

The most recent event she has been involved with was all souls day, hosted at fairview cemetery. 

During this event, tour guides lead visitors to various graves which featured live actors who told stories of the people buried there.

Her shop is always decorated according to season and holiday, when it is not sporting holiday decorations, it is in its natural state of being 40s themed.

The local ice cream shops of Boyertown include Dairy Queen, Rita’s, and Long Acres. All of which carry the same products, but do not have the same nostalgic and welcoming theme, nor do they host similar events and specials.

Besides the peppermint stick, there are no other candy shops local to Boyertown.

Racheal decided that the best shop to add to Boyertown was a candy and ice cream shop which would attract young and old.

When Racheal was asked what inspired the 40s theme, she said, “people expected a 50s or 60s theme, but no one had a 40s theme.” 

She also added that her and her husband share a passion for history, and this theme fits both their interests.

Community members shared that they felt that the shop created a positive environment and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Some stated that they feel the shop brought wealth to the town due to tourists, and others stated that they believe it creates an interesting hang out place for people of all ages.

Overall, Boyertown thrives due to its inhabitants and businesses and Racheal with the peppermint stick is just one brick to the foundation of the community.