The First Kraft Cheese Factory was located in Stockton, Ill. J. L. Kraft first retailed cheese in 1903 with horse and wagon. In 1909, four of Kraft's brothers joined him and incorporated as J. L. Kraft & Bros. Co. opening their first cheese factory in Stockton in 1915, producing processed cheese in 3 1/2 and 7 3/4 ounce tins obtaining the patent in 1916. The company supplied cheese to the U.S. government for the armed forces of World War I. J. L Kraft then followed up on his success with Velveeta Process Cheese, Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Miracle Whip Salad Dressing and Kraft Dinner Macaroni and Cheese. In 1930 the company was known as Kraft-Phenix Cheese Corporation. Pictured on the front porch of the factory are Mr. and Mrs. Norman Kraft and C. H. Kraft. Questions and comments may be directed to Mary Ann Hanna at 608-325-4324 or nhcchistory@yahoo.com. (Photo supplied by National Historic Cheesemaking Center)