THE MORE YOU KNOW: Why does Alma call itself the “Spinach Capital of the World”?

ALMA, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — How did a small Arkansas town become home to a towering Popeye statue and a spinach-themed water tower?

Alma became known as the “Spinach Capital of the World” after the Alma Canning Company was purchased by H.L. Hunt in 1961, according to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas .

The Allen Canning Company, based in Siloam Springs, canned more than half of the spinach consumed in the U.S. (over 60 million pounds annually), making it the leading business in Alma.

In 1987, the town embraced its spinach heritage, erecting a Popeye statue in front of the Chamber of Commerce and hosting an annual Spinach Festival .

The festival celebrated its 30th year in 2016 but was discontinued in following years.

Alma’s water tower was also painted to resemble a can of spinach .

Although Allen Canning Company has since left Alma, its “Spinach Capital” roots are still green.

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