HERITAGE

Humble Beginnings

The McChrystal's family adventure began early in the 20th Century when Denis, who came to England from Ireland, started working in Leicester for a wholesale tobacconist. He was intrigued by the high volume of snuff being sold and so decided to try and blend his own.

McChrystal's Museum equipment
McChrystal's Snuff weighing scale
Pestle & mortar
McChrystal's stack of books

The Inventor

Denis arrived at his recipe with the help of a chemist from Leicester University, using the finest ingredients. He used his grandmother, an avid snuff taker, to sample the finished product and she gave her seal of approval. So, in 1926, in a garden shed in Denis’ garden, the manufacture of “The Original & Genuine McChrystal's Snuff” began.

A Growing Business

In 1945, Denis’ son, also Denis, joined the business. He used to ride around on his bicycle delivering the snuff locally. In 1958, Denis and his son, moved the business to Earl Howe Street, Leicester and the business was incorporated. In 1966, the business was moved again, to the current premises, Morris Road, Leicester and here the Company became fully mechanised.

McChrystal's Snuff typewriter
Old fashioned snuff boxes
Museum statues of man sniffing snuff

A Family Affair

In 1978 Ian, Denis’ son, joined the Company and some years later he was joined by his wife, Sue.  They have introduced new flavours and have developed many new markets all over the world. They have also embraced the latest digital technologies including social media, and for many years, have been selling their products on the company website.

The Future

In 2015, the Company moved into its 4th generation with the joining of Charles. With Charles’ help McChrystal's is continuing with this wonderful legacy and will aspire to seek new markets, innovative ideas and new flavours to awaken the senses.

McChrystal's Original & Genuine Snuff amongst tobacco leaves
Ian McChrystal

Ian McChrystal
Chairman and Managing Director

Sue McChrystal

Sue McChrystal
Company Director & Company Secretary

Charles McChrystal

Charles McChrystal
Director of Business Development