TV Dinners

Swedish-born Carl A. Swanson, who immigrated to the United States in 1896, moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he met John O. Jerpe, the owner of a small commission company that bought eggs and cream from local farmers, processed them, and sold these products to distributors, charging a commission to the farmers. In 1899 Swanson invested his savings and became Jerpe’s partner; with Swanson’s help the company expanded its line, selling chicken, turkey, and other meats. In 1928 Jerpe retired and Swanson bought the business. When Swanson’s sons, Gilbert and W. Clarke, joined the business, the firm became C. A. Swanson and Sons.