why are everton called the toffees

Everton are called "The Toffees" because of a long-standing association with local toffee shops near their original and current stadiums. The nickname dates back to Everton's days at Anfield (before Liverpool FC was formed) where "Ye Ancient Everton Toffee House," run by Molly Bushell, sold toffees to fans going to matches. After Everton moved to Goodison Park in 1892, another toffee shop owned by Mother Noblett sold "Everton Mints," a sweet with a toffee core that became popular among supporters. This tradition of toffee-selling at matches contributed to the team being known as "The Toffees," a nickname that has stuck for over a century and continues today, symbolized by the Everton Toffee Lady who distributes toffees before games.