Cigar Trivia

• The word 'cigar' is the English translation of the word,  cigarro.
• Christopher Columbus introduced tobacco to Europe. 
• Roman Catholic missionaries helped to increase the popularity of smoking cigars by giving out tobacco seeds.
• The first Spanish cigar company was established in Cuba.
• Throughout history, many believed cigars had medicinal qualities. However, other individuals considered cigars evil. 
• The first United States based cigar company was founded in 1820 under the name Connecticut Broadleaf
• By the late early 1900's there were more than 10,000 cigar companies operating in the United States.
• While smoking cigars during the 1800 was common, smoking cigarettes was rare. 

Cigars & Carnivals

• Did you know cigars were once a popular prize a carnivals? Thus, the phrase close but no cigar once meant that the individual was close to the prize but failed to win the cigar.  Needless to say, back then, carnival games and prizes were not directed at children.​
• During the early 1900's when cigars were carnival prices, the price of cigars ranged from $.01-.20. If cigars were still this price in the present, after inflation, they would sell between $.28-5.71 each. 
• While the price of cigars has continued to increase, there are more than 17 million cigar smokers in the United States.
• Although males are more likely to enjoy traditional cigars, females are more likely to smoke flavored cigars. However, most individuals do not smoke cigars daily.​

Cigar Manufacturing Facts

Did you know that in 2017, more than 330 million cigars were imported into the United States? 
It took a long time to harvest and manufacture the cigar your smoking. It takes between 40-60 days to harvest tobacco plants. After this period, the tobacco is cured. While the curing process imparts flavor into your cigar, it can take up to five years to finish. ​​

Did you know that during the cigar curing process, farmers and cigar manufacturers are patiently waiting for tobacco to change from green to yellow to brown? 

 

Cigar Manufacturing Facts

Did you know that in 2017, more than 330 million cigars were imported into the United States? 
It took a long time to harvest and manufacture the cigar your smoking. It takes between 40-60 days to harvest tobacco plants. After this period, the tobacco is cured. While the curing process imparts flavor into your cigar, it can take up to five years to finish. ​​

Did you know the largest cigar store in the United States was once called “United Cigar Stores.” Not to be confused with United Cigars, United Cigar Stores was founded in 1901 by George and Charles Whelan. Initially, United Cigar Stores was a wholesale firm that quickly turned to retail. By 1926, United Cigar Stores had more than 3,100 locations. Ironically, it was owned by a company that eventually purchased Marvel Comics. Sadly, the chain liquidated in the 1980s.