Valders Canning Company, founded September 26, 1913 by William F. Christel, Albert Schnurr, and Nic Filz, was at that time the largest company in Wisconsin that packed only peas. Six brands were packed at the company's main plant in Valders, and in factories located in Hilbert and St. Nazianz (the latter plant was sold in 1950). In addition, the company owned and operated a 400-acre farm adjacent to the village of Valders. Christel, a pioneer Wisconsin entrepreneur and inventor, was president of the company until his death in 1952, when the position was assumed by his son. The company was liquidated in 1963.
