A FAMILY AFFAIR

The first apple trees were planted on the shore of Pine Tree Lake in 1904. That orchard would one day be Pine Tree Orchard for Art Jacobson, a city boy from St. Paul, who dreamed of growing apples and living on the land.

In 1950, Art and his wife, Dickie, moved out to the orchard and eventually purchased it in 1958. They settled down to make growing apples the center of their lives and the lives of their children.

Today, all six adult children are actively involved in growing and marketing apples. And now there are even grandchildren taking part in the operation. Each family member has his or her own special interest.

As the family grew, the orchard did as well. The original orchard of 25 acres is now over 300 hundred acres; planted in apple trees, strawberries, pumpkins and corn for the corn maze. In 1963, Pine Tree Orchard purchased an additional orchard in Preston, Minnesota. Growing apples on two different locations keeps the family from having all their eggs in one basket. And although growing these crops is the main thrust of the business, Pine Tree has branched out into other related products and activities. (See What We Grow for more information.)

For many years the orchard's widely known, from scratch bakery turns out all kinds of goodies. Led by Dickie, and her daughter Mary, a group of dedicated "Grandma's and Grandpa's" are the bakery staff who are committed to excellence. Apple pies just like Mom used to make, apple doughnuts, apple rollovers, and muffins just to name a few of the items available. (See What's Cooking for more information.)

During the fall there are lots of great family activities to celebrate the season. Folks can take a scenic wagon ride through the beautiful orchard , pick a pumpkin from the big old patch or get lost in the corn maze. Kids of all ages love watching the apples on the 75 foot washing, sorting and grading machine in the center of the market. There is even a charming gift shop. Of course, top your visit off with a great piece of apple pie ala mode. Yummm.

Hundreds of individuals and families from the area make trips to Pine Tree Orchard a family tradition. Join them this year.

For a full calendar of events, seasonal hours, maps and directions see What's Happening at Pine Tree Orchard.