Now the oldest continually operating bakery in the state,[1] it was established in 1799 by the Moravian Church, and is named for Christian Winkler, a Swiss-born baker who began working there in 1807,[1][2] after replacing original baker Thomas Butner Jr.[3] The building, which now has a landmark designation, was constructed by Salem's master builder and mason Johann Gottlob Krause,[2] shortly before his death.

Their descendants subsequently lived in the property, including Winkler's grandson, Charles, and his wife, Alice, who ran the bakery in the late 19th century.

The bakery, which was restored to its original appearance in 1968,[2] has been owned since 1963 by Old Salem Museum and Gardens.

The workers arrive before dawn each day to start up the oven,[8] which is fueled by wood, as it was originally.

[12][13] Bobby James was the head baker in the early 21st century,[11][12][14] assisted by Jeffrey Sherrill.