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Our History

Francis Maville frying the donuts. Muriel Maville making the batters.

1967

Muriel’s Donuts was started in 1967 by Francis and Muriel Maville in Lebanon, New Hampshire. The original donut recipe was obtained from the previous owners of the building, who were related to the Mavilles.

Originally the name of the donut shop was going to be “Francis’ Donuts,” however Francis decided that “Muriel’s Donuts” had a better ring to it.

Muriel making donut batters in the 1970's
Francis Maville

2013

After Francis passed away in 2013, Muriel to continued to operate the donut shop with help from 3 of her 5 sons: Mark, Dan and Chris.

2019

Chris, the youngest son of Francis and Muriel, began working full-time at the donut shop. He would get there early and make dozens of donuts for both the shop and the local accounts.

He hoped to be able to learn the trade and be the next generation of donut maker, keeping his parents’ legacy alive.

Chris Maville adding cinnamon powder to donuts.
Muriel greeting customers

April, 2025

On April 8th, 2025 Muriel passed away. Hundreds of community members posted online, and came into the shop, sharing all their memories of Muriel. 

Today

Chris and his wife Lara purchase the business officially and hire their daughter, Patience, as an assistant baker. As Chris said “You’ve got to honor your parents.” That is exactly Chris’ goal today as he uses the same recipe—and love—Muriel and Francis used from the beginning.

Lara, Patience, and Chris Maville