The Bernard Polak and Polak's Fruital Works, Inc. collection

Collection

Identifier: 2008-44

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

For a more detailed inventory, please view this record in our library catalog: https://othmerlib.sciencehistory.org/record=b1054913~S6

This is far from being a comprehensive collection of business papers, but the Code Book and the notebooks offer excellent insights into the flavorings and fragrances industry. The later materials are of variable interest. The family tree chart of perfumes and the formulary calculators are of interest.

Dates

Creation: 1935-2004

Language of Materials

Text in English and Dutch.

Biographical sketch

Polak's Fruital Works was founded in Amersfoort, Holland by Bernard Polak's father and an uncle. After the death of his brother Frits in 1954 Bernard became president of the company. Although a Dutch company, Polak's Fruital Works had a U.S. subsidiary from 1923 on. In 1937 the company's U.S. operations were expanded and they were developed further during WWII when Holland was under German occupation. During these years Bernard Polak and Jesse L. Weinberg pioneered the WONF (flavors with other natural flavors) concept. Polak's Fruital Works became known as a leading manufacturer of food flavors in the U.S. and in 1974 it was purchased by Hercules Inc.

Extent

.75 Linear Feet (2 boxes)

Additional Description

Arrangement

Organized into two series. Series I: Bernard Polak's Student-Notebooks, 1935-1938 ; Series II: Polak's Fruital Works, Inc.

Ownership and Custodial History

Gift of Bernard Polak, former president and C.E.O. of Polak's Fruital Works, Inc.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Source of acquisition--Polak, Bernard. . Method of acquisition--Gift;; Date of acquisition--2008..

General Note

In addition to the notebooks and the Polak's Fruital Works, Inc. related materials, there are two corporate letter seals and some books relating to the perfume industry that have been separated from the paper collection.