Brown bread. Courtesy of Northern Spy. Modern New England brown bread is much sweeter, a phenomenon that developed over time as high-society types added extra molasses to show off their wealth.

BOSTON, April 17.-The National Bread Company of New England has been formed with a capital of $5,000,000. A large bakery will be established in Boston, and others in every large city in New England.

Canned bread is a New England tradition with a storied past. Here's what you need to know about this divisive product and how it came to pass.