Celebrating Black History Month: The Legacy of African Americans in the Cigar Industry
Every February, we celebrate Black History Month—a time to honor the contributions, culture, and achievements of Black people throughout history. While the month is often focused on recognizing the profound impact of Black Americans in politics, music, art, and social change, it's also important to acknowledge their contributions in areas you might not immediately think of, such as the cigar industry.
The history of Black culture’s influence on the cigar industry is rich, complex, and often overlooked. From the cultivation of tobacco to the craftsmanship behind cigar rolling, Black Americans have played a pivotal role in shaping the industry. Let’s explore how the Black community has contributed to the world of cigars and why this connection is worth celebrating.
The Roots of Cigar Tobacco: Black Farmers and Tobacco Cultivation
The story of Black involvement in tobacco dates back centuries. In the early days of the tobacco industry, enslaved Black people were responsible for cultivating, harvesting, and processing tobacco. Their knowledge of agricultural techniques—passed down through generations—was critical in shaping the industry. In many cases, enslaved people were the backbone of tobacco plantations, contributing to the growth of the industry in states like Virginia, North Carolina, and Kentucky.
After emancipation, many Black Americans continued to work in tobacco farming, and some even established their own farms. Despite facing systemic challenges and racial discrimination, these farmers were essential to the success of the tobacco industry in the U.S. Many Black farmers specialized in the cultivation of high-quality tobacco leaves, which were highly sought after by cigar manufacturers.
Cigar Manufacturing: Black Craftsmanship and Legacy
Beyond the fields, Black Americans have also made significant contributions to the art of cigar manufacturing. For generations, skilled artisans, many of whom were Black, worked as torcedores (cigar rollers) in cigar factories across the country. These artisans were responsible for rolling cigars with precision, a craft that required immense skill and experience. Their expertise in the fine art of cigar rolling was integral to the success of the cigar industry, especially in cities like Tampa, Florida, which became a major hub for cigar production in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In fact, the Cuban cigar-making tradition, which heavily influenced the U.S. cigar industry, was brought to life in large part by Black cigar rollers, many of whom had been trained in Cuba and moved to the U.S. Their craftsmanship helped elevate the quality and reputation of cigars produced in the States.
Entrepreneurs and Innovators: Black-Owned Cigar Brands
Today, there is a growing number of Black-owned cigar brands and businesses that continue to thrive, bringing new perspectives and flavors to the industry. Brands like Epic Cigars, Blue Mountain Cigars, Tres Lindas Cubanas, and Black Star Line Cigars— are shining examples of the continued impact of Black culture on the cigar world. By blending traditional techniques with modern twists, these companies are helping redefine the cigar experience for a new generation of enthusiasts.
Epic Cigars, for instance, was founded by Dean Parsons with the mission to create bold, flavorful cigars that reflect the passion and commitment of its founder. Working closely with master blender, Rolando Antonio Villamil for more than 10 years, Parsons dedicated all of his time learning and expanding his knowledge of tobacco cultivation, aging, fermentation and the art of blending Premium Cigars. With a focus on high-quality craftsmanship and an unwavering dedication to the craft, Epic Cigars continues to be a standout in the industry, offering a product that resonates with cigar enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Blue Mountain Cigars is a family-owned and operated brand with a rich legacy in the cigar industry. Founded in 1995 by Marvin Wright and his wife Jacqueline, the brand was born from Marvin’s deep-rooted passion for cigars and his Jamaican heritage. Growing up in Jamaica as the son of a tobacco grower, Marvin was introduced to the craft at an early age, and after further refining his expertise in Cuba, he brought his vision to Nicaragua. Blue Mountain Cigars blends traditional Jamaican cigar-making methods with the techniques and philosophies he learned from Cuban growers and master blenders, creating cigars that stand out for their uncompromising quality and distinctive flavor.
Tres Lindas Cubanas Cigars stands as a powerful testament to the rich Afro-Cuban heritage and entrepreneurial spirit of its founders, Twins Yvette and Yvonne Rodriguez. As the first Afro-Cuban, women-owned cigar brand in the U.S., they have broken barriers in an industry traditionally dominated by men, particularly in the realms of production and leadership. Proud of their Cuban roots, Yvette and Yvonne have skillfully blended culture, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship to create a premium cigar line that not only celebrates the art of cigar-making but also honors the diversity and strength of their heritage. Drawing from their deep connection to Cuban tradition, the sisters have crafted cigars that reflect the passion, resilience, and flavor profiles unique to Afro-Cuban culture.
Black Star Line Cigars is a standout Black-owned brand founded by Aric Wimberly-Bey, a Chicago firefighter and passionate cigar aficionado. Named after the historic Black Star Line shipping company founded by Marcus Garvey, the brand honors the legacy of Black empowerment and unity.
The name Black Star Line pays homage to the historic Black Star Line shipping company founded by Marcus Garvey in the early 20th century, which sought to promote unity and economic empowerment within the African-American community. Wimberly-Bey stated in an interview "I want to do the same with my cigars. I am big on history and those that came before us. If we don’t keep talking about history, we will lose the stories and potentially relive some of the issues that have happened in the past." Aric’s deep love for cigars and culture inspired him to create a premium line that celebrates both craftsmanship and heritage. Known for its complex yet smooth blends, Black Star Line Cigars offers a distinctive experience for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers.
Celebrating the Legacy
Black History Month is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the enduring influence of Black culture in the cigar industry and beyond. Whether it’s in the tobacco fields, the factories, or through the work of today’s innovators, Black Americans have had a lasting impact on the world of cigars. It’s not just about celebrating the history of the industry but also recognizing the ongoing contributions of Black individuals who continue to shape the cigar world.
As we light up our cigars and raise a glass to the achievements of Black Americans, let’s take a moment to honor the legacy of those who’ve made it possible—whether in the past or in the present. The cigar industry, like so many others, has been shaped by the resilience, innovation, and hard work of the Black community, and it’s a legacy that continues to grow and evolve.
So, this Black History Month, as you enjoy your favorite cigar, remember the stories and contributions that have helped shape this beloved craft. From the fields to the factories to the boardrooms, Black culture has had—and will continue to have—a lasting influence on the cigar industry for generations to come.