The traditional lollipop is the hard candy on a stick. But nowadays, more modern and novelty lollipops are on the market. There are some with hard candy on rings and as pendants on necklaces; others have a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. There are also lollipops that contain a chocolate or bubble gum surprise in the center while some can even glow. Some people say that at least some form of the traditional lollipop existed since the 1800s and in that time frame, there were a lot of stories made about the invention of the lollipop. Charles Dickens, along with other authors in his time, describes a certain sweet lozenge in their stories, although it has no stick. It is also believed that little pieces of hard candy were put on the ends of children's pencils for them to enjoy during the time of the Civil War.

It's unclear exactly which company, or even which country invented the first lollipops, but it's certain that different variations of this popular treat existed in many places. Evidence has proved that even as early as ancient Egypt, people crystallized nuts and fruits in honey and placed them on sticks for easy access. In Europe during the Middle Ages, sugar was imported and therefore an expensive luxury item that few could afford, so candy was made into a hard block and given only to the nobility on ornate handles. It became a more prevalent item that many can afford at around the 17th century during the time of Charles Dickens, and that's where many concluded the name derived from. The Racine Confectionary Machine Company invented the first automated lollipop production machine in 1908, and the idea hit off immediately.

Doing a lollipop fundraiser is a fun way for school clubs and other small groups to raise funds. The approach is very similar to other types of fundraising candy, but with a product with lower price point and widespread appeal.

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