September 30, October 1, 2, 2016

“What’s Happening”

September 30, October 1, 2

30, 1, 2, - Stratton Players present, Don’t Drink the Water by Woody Allen, A cascade of comedy and a solid hit on Broadway, this affair takes place inside an American embassy behind the Iron Curtain. An American tourist, a caterer by trade, and his wife and daughter rush into the embassy two steps ahead of the police who suspect them of spying and picture taking. It's not much of a refuge, for the ambassador is absent and his son, now in charge, has been expelled from a dozen countries and the continent of Africa. Nevertheless, they carefully and frantically plot their escape, and the ambassador's son and the caterer's daughter even have time to fall in love. $13/$15, Performances held at the Applewild School, 98 Prospect St., Fitchburg MA, Showtimes: Friday and Saturday, 8:00 p.m., Sunday, 2:00 p.m. Repeats October 7,8, and 9 - visit strattonplayers.com

30, Friday, Monadnock Center for History and Culture presents, Music in Bass Hall: Hiroya Tsukamoto – 7:30 p.m., Hiroya Tsukamoto is a one of a kind composer, guitarist and singer-songwriter from Kyoto, Japan. He began playing the five-string banjo when he was thirteen, and took up the guitar shortly after. In 1994, Hiroya entered The Osaka University and while at college in Japan, Hiroya was introduced to a musical and social movement in South America called Nueva Cancion headed by musical legends such as Victor Jara and Violeta Parra. Tickets $15/$18, 19 Grove St., Peterborough NH, monadnockcenter.org

1, 2 Saturday and Sunday – Taste of Local at Lanni Orchards – 10:00-6:00, It's that time again, our monthly Taste of Local! October is Apple Month so not only will you be able to taste all of our local Massachusetts products but also our different kinds of apples absolutely free! This is a great event to try, before you buy as well as enjoy amazing samples. Hope to see you there! 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg MA lanniorchards.com

1, Saturday – Horseshed Fair at the First Church of Christ Unitarian, Lancaster, MA – 10:00-5:00, Horseshed Fair at the First Church of Christ Unitarian (the Bullfinch Church) on the common, Route 117, Lancaster. Now in its 38th year, the Horseshed Fair is a festive arts and crafts fair featuring hand-manufactured items by crafters from throughout New England, as well as foods, white elephant table, gifts and music. Visit firstchurchlancasterma.org.

1, Saturday – Our Lady Immaculate Parish Fair at the Athol-Orange Elks – 9:00-3:00, Food, raffles, crafts and more. 92 New Athol Rd., Orange MA

1, Saturday – Touchstone Farm’s FarmTastic Fall Fundraiser, 5:30-9:00 p.m.,

We are going to have a PARTY!  It will start at the Homestead, the newly renovated Colonial Farmhouse which began being built in 1754 and is about to get designation for the Nat. Register of Historic Places. We will have seasonal Cocktails, as well as MockTails for those who do not want to imbibe! Peter Robinson of Roy's Market is going to provide the appetizers and a full Chicken BBQ with all the fixings and a Fall Veggie Option...We will also have Connolly's Ice Cream with a fun dessert.

The actual dinner and festivities will take place in the center aisle of the 2nd floor of the barn. Wait until you see the twinkling lights and beautiful decorations being planned.  We will have live music, a live auction of a few very cool items, a Heads or Tail Silly Auction, and a Wine Pull of nice bottles of wine.  We will also have a couple of our actual students, veterans and/or family members with us to speak about what the farm means to them. Touchstone Farm, 13 pony Farm Lane, Temple NH $50.00/person, touchstone-farm.org/fundraisers/

1, Saturday – Harvest Fair in Orange, MA – 9:30-2:00, Homemade donuts, country store (with Cabot cheddar cheese, jams, jellies, pickles, vegetables), handcrafts, fall items, fudge, candy, fresh-made apple pies, other baked goods, balloon game, large tag sale, hot dogs, hand-cut fries, chili and beverages. Orange United Methodist Church, 104 South Main St., Orange MA

1, Saturday – Monadnock Fall Festival, 10:00-7:00, The Monadnock Fall Festival celebrates all the things that make our community special.  Join us for a day of art, music, food, dance, crafts and theatre from local towns and your neighborhood. There will be a car show and one-mile road race. In and around downtown Keene, NH

1, 2 Saturday and Sunday – Cheshire Craftsmen Fair – 9:00-3:00 - Juried arts & crafts fair featuring more than 30 regional vendors. Goods on display and for sale will include handmade quilts, jewelry, soaps & lotions, pottery, and seasonal décor. Also available are wooden toys, painted antiques. Primitives, scrapbooks, decorative metal work, hand painted silk scarves, dried florals and much more. Shoppers are encouraged to come prepared to get a good start on their holiday shopping needs. Visitors at the fair may also wish to enjoy breakfast or lunch, both served by a local charitable organization. Admission and ample parking are both free. Keene NH Recreation Center, 312 Washington St., Keene NH

1, 2, Saturday and Sunday, Wachusett Mountain presents, the 7th Annual Great New England BBQFest 10:00-5:00, This event is to help support the Greg Hill Foundation. Additional highlights of this year's event include the OYSTERFEST, now featuring Oysters on the half shell, clam chowder and shrimp, along with a daily Oyster Shucking Competition! The PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS will feature Chili on Saturday and Pulled Pork on Sunday! Then there's the ever-famous Farmers' Market and Craft Fair (including more than 75 vendors), and Beer Tent throughout the weekend. We will also have fun things for the kids, like face painting, clowns and moon bounces!

We've expanded our number of vendors! Visit our website for more information and pricing at wachusett.com

1, 2 Saturday and Sunday, Heifer International’s Global Harvest Festival 10:00-4:00 Heifer Farm's annual Global Harvest Festival is a fun -packed cultural celebration for the all ages! This festive weekend features international crafts and Games in the Global Village, live music, delicious food, hay rides to the pumpkin patch and, of course, all the farm animals. Live bands will play on the main stage throughout the festival and the Dale Perkins Horse Show will perform daily at 1pm. Bands include Boston-based Kat Kennedy, and local groups The Hip Swayers, Hard to Say, Lalla Rookh, and Fernside. 216 Wachusett St., Rutland MA 508-886-2221, heifer.org

1, 2 Saturday and Sunday, - Vermont Crafts Council’s Fall Open Studio Weekends, 10:00-5:00, Typically the first weekend in October, the Vermont Craft Council’s 2016 Fall Open Studio Weekends Oct. 1-2 and 8-9 will take place across the state, coinciding with the national American Craft Week. Locally, the event will include the work of 14 artists from 11 studios and one gallery in Brattleboro, West Brattleboro and Marlboro. Please note that half of the participating studios will be open only the first weekend; the rest will be open both weekends. For more details visit Brattleboro-west-arts.com

1, 2 Saturday and Sunday – Apple Days at Old Sturbridge Village, 9:30-5:00 Ripe and redolent apples are a favorite sign of fall in New England. Enjoy the crisp autumn days at Old Sturbridge Village with special events throughout our Apple Days celebration. Come tour the orchards, help us pick apples, and taste some nearly forgotten heirloom apple varieties. Throughout the day our interpreters will be cooking and preserving this special fall fruit. Then, try your hand at cider making, and see the ox-powered Cider Mill in operation. You can even make your own sachet of mulling spices to take home. General admission prices are $28 for Adults, $26 for Seniors (+55), $14 for Youths (3-14), and children 2 and under are FREE. Osv.org

2, Sunday – Historical Piano Concert, Ashburnham, 4:00-5:00 - Maksim Shtrykov, clarinet and Misuzu Tanaka (on piano to be chosen from the collection). Works by Jesús de Monasterio, Antonio Romero y Andía, Carlos Guastavino, Claude Debussy, Darius Milhaud, and Francis Poulenc. $10.00, children and students, free.  No advance reservations. Visit FrederickCollection.org or call Patricia Frederick, 978-827-6232.

2, Sunday – Guided Tours of the Shirley Shaker Village Site – 12: 5:00, The site is part of the state prison system and can only be accessed by special arrangement. Our tour begins with a brief illustrated lecture on the history of the Shakers and the Shirley Village. Visitors go inside three Shaker buildings and travel by prison van to various locations around the property. Reservations must be made in advance for a cost of $15.00 per person, or $10 for Historical Society members. shirleyhistory.org

September 23, 24, 25, 2016

Run for a Beer at the 11th Annual Oktoberfest sponsored by Gardner Ale House

“What’s Happening”

September 23, 24, 25

23, Friday - Moonshine Holler Concert & Family Picnic at the Lunenburg Library, 1023 Mass. Avenue, Lunenburg. Moonshine Holler plays Appalachian-style folk and country music. They will be performing on the library’s patio from 6:30-8:00 on Friday evening. Come with your family, your chairs, and a picnic meal and enjoy the music and the fun! No registration required. Call 978-582-4140.

24, 25 Saturday and Sunday - 26th Annual KidsFest at Wachusett Mountain -

KidsFest is two full days of music, food, and family fun! Live shows, walk-around entertainment, magic shows, clowns, our scenic summit SkyRide and much more! Enjoy great food and product sampling by vendors! This year will feature the XPogo Stunt Team, Rainforest Reptile Show, WXLO's Wachusett's Got Talent, Sterling Gym's Ninja Warrior Course and much more! 

On Sunday, September 25 is the Heart Warrior 5k & Kids Run, created to support the Boston Children's Hospital Heart Center. This fun race will feature a 5k run and Kids' Run starting at 9:00am and leading right into KidsFest. Registration details can be found at wachusett.com

24, Saturday – 11^th Annual Oktoberfest, sponsored by Gardner Ale House -

11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, German Beer Garden, Beer Maidens, Food, Beer, Live Music, Lawn Games for Adults, Kids Alley for Kids, 7th Annual Run For A Beer 5K & 10K, Ceremonial Tapping of the Keg & Debut of 11th Oktoberfest Lager, World’s Largest Chicken Dance, 8th Annual Gardner Chair Luge

10:45 AM 7th Annual Run For A Beer 5K & 10K

11:30 AM Ceremonial Tapping of the Keg & Debut of 11th Oktoberfest Lager

1:00 PM World’s Largest Chicken Dance

2:00 PM 8th Annual Gardner Chair Luge

50’s Theme, Registration at Noon

Live Music

3:30 PM Harry Borsh and The Squires of Soul

5:00 PM The Night Owls

6:30 PM The Grin Whistle

8:00 PM Sweet Green

Inside the Ale House

Exquisite German fare including sausage plates, Wiener Schnitzel and whatever the kitchen comes up with this year in the way of authentic German delicacies. This finer German cuisine can only be had inside the Ale House. www.gardnerale.com

24, Saturday – Fabulous Fall Festival, Downtown Gardner, This is a family-friendly, all day fabulous fall festival! Downtown will be transformed into a street festival, and streets are opened to pedestrians only between the hours of 9:00 a.m and 5:00 p.m. Downtown shops, joined by local crafters display and sell their wares out in the streets. There’s a Fabulous Food Court and Kids’ Zone featuring a variety of bouncy houses for toddlers and big kids. Take a chance to win great prizes donated by our shops, street vendors, and local businesses at our Chinese Auction. Come in costume to join our Costume Parade! If all of this is not enough fun, Gardner Ale House will hosting the 11 Annual Oktoberfest. gardnersquaretwo.com

24, Saturday - 23rd Annual Johnny Appleseed Arts & Cultural Festival. 9:00-5:00, Downtown Leominster - Come celebrate in the heart of downtown Leominster as we honor one of our most popular residents, Johnny Appleseed. Browse dozens of vendors, from craft dealers to commercial vendors and school based activity clubs. Enjoy delicious foods at the international food court and have fun on the pony rides, petting zoo, moonwalks, unending entertainment and so much more! 

24, Saturday - Pickle Festival in Winchester NH - 128 Main St., Winchester NH - An old-fashioned town fair. The Winchester’s annual Pickle Festival is fun for all. Downtown Winchester becomes the fairgrounds, with Main Street (Route 10) the parade route. Kids march along the parade, which features local pickle-themed floats, plenty of pickle costumes and marching bands. Along the route are craftsmen (many demonstrating), food booths, and a lively competition among local cooks for the best jar of pickles. There are free pickles for everyone. Live music goes on all day, with everything from blues and country-western to a barbershop quartet and violin ensemble.

24, Saturday – Schnitzelfest, Hillsborough New Hampshire, noon- 8:00 p.m., You don’t have to go to Munich. You don’t have to travel to Hamburg or Frankfurt or even Dusseldorf. Because the best German food, beer, and wine outside of Germany is right here, at Schnitzelfest! Ach du lieber. Come join us rain or shine – it is going to be wunderbar! Come enjoy real Bavarian favorites, authentically prepared, like schnitzel, potato salad, sauerkraut, fantastic breads and deeeee-lectable desserts, all served under the big tent. There’ll be a Harpoon® sponsored beer tent and wine bar, many craft vendors, lots of entertainment, including the Zauer Kraut Bavarian band and The Mad Bavarian Brass Band so you can really get your ‘oompah!’ on. Butler Park, 3 Central St., Hillsborough NH http://www.schnitzelfestnh.org

24, 25 Saturday and Sunday – Fall Festival at Tower Hill - There's nothing like autumn in New England, and there's no better place than Tower Hill Botanic Garden to take in all the season has to offer. In addition to the panoramic view of Mt. Wachusett and the Reservoir, the Garden displays hundreds of trees and shrubs known for their spectacular fall color. The special weekends in autumn feature heirloom apples, locally made products, and much more. Stefilia's Stone creates a dynamic display of original music with a splash of indie, adult contemporary and folk-pop. Lester Rawson Band, Sunday, September 25 The Lester Rawson Band plays an altogether pleasing mix of blues, R&B, classic rock and country--not note-for-note covers, but unique treatments of sturdy standards and a few great tunes that are sure to surprise and satisfy. 10am - 5pm Sat, Sep 24 - Sun, Sep 25, Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Drive, Boylston, MA, 774-230-7153, www.towerhillbg.org

24, Saturday –Lasting Impressions: Art Quilts 2016, Whistler House Museum of Art, 243 Worthen Street, Lowell, MA - All artists seek to make an impression on the viewer with their creations. For Lasting Impressions, we asked quilters to take that sentiment a step further and use stamps, dye, stitching, and other techniques to make their fabrics as striking as their designs. With quilts comprised of at least 50% handmade fabrics, this eclectic exhibition showcases the breadth of technique and style that can be achieved through the quilter's manipulation of his/her medium. whistlerhouse.org

25, Sunday - Historical Piano Concert at Ashburnham Community Church, 84 Main Street (Rt. 12) Ashburnham. 4:00-5:00, Jerilyn Jorgensen, violin, and Cullan Bryant: pianos by Brodmann, c. 1800-1805, and Bösendorfer, ca. 1830, both of Vienna: Beethoven’s sonatas for piano and violin, Nos. 2, 8 and 10. Admission $10, children and students, free. No advance reservations. Visit frederickCollection.org.

25, Sunday – Johnny Appleseed’s Birthday at the Visitor Center on Route 2. Stop in for a slice of cake (while it lasts), to help celebrate Johnny’s birthday.

9:00-5:00

25, Sunday - Plastic Imagination at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. Plastic Imagination explores the work of 10 contemporary New England artists who create extraordinary things with all kinds of plastics. Lisa Barthelson, Tom Deininger, Dana Filibert, Joseph Fucigna, Lynne Harlow, Niho Kozuru, Margaret Roleke, Dean Snyder, Bill Thompson, and Brian Zink all find inspiration in the fillers, films and moldable plastics made popular throughout the last century. Some shave, sand, and paint different densities of foam. Some play up the translucent or opaque qualities of Plexi or Fiberglass, and some recycle plastic toys, treasures, and trash. Some present everyday plastics as strictly formal studies, while others crave the layers of meaning (social, political, cultural, environmental, and economic) that result from a focus on this ubiquitous and arguably indispensable material. Open Weds.-Fri. noon-4 pm. Sat.-Sun., 11 am-5 pm. Call 978-345-4207 or visit fitchburgartmuseum.org.

September 16, 17, 18, 2016

“What’s Happening”

September 16, 17, 18

16-18, New Players Theatre Guild presents, Lost in Yonkers, You Can't Take it With You introduces audiences to the freethinking Sycamore family and the mayhem that ensues when their daughter's fiancé brings his conservative, straight-laced parents to dinner on the wrong night. Friday and Saturday 8:00 p.m., Sunday 2:00 p.m. 15 Rollstone St., Fitchburg – visit nptg.org

17, Saturday - 34th Annual Fall Festival on Main Street, Athol. 9:00-3:00, The Fall Festival functions as a block party in downtown Athol, featuring largely local merchandise and fun activities for people of all ages. Face painting and classic cars, parade, pizza-eating contest, magic show, and live auction. Visit northquabbinchamber.com.

17, Saturday - Honey Crisp Weekend at Sholan Farms, 1125 Pleasant St., Leominster. 9:00-5:00, You heard right – Sholan Farms’ most popular new apple will be featured all weekend long! Crunchy, sweet and just plain outstanding! Take a walk or a free wagon ride around the orchard and load up on your favorite apple. You can also enjoy Honeycrisp apples in our baked goods, and fresh pressed apple cider. September also brings a number of other great apple varieties. Pick your own apples or get pre-picked apples from our cooler. Also happening at Sholan farms are the Johnny Applseed Homecrafters. Visit sholanfarms.com for more information.

17, Saturday Fall Festival at St. Edward the Confessor Church, 10 Church St., Westminster. 10:00-6:00, Join us for a day of fun hunting through attic treasures or resurrected books, looking for bargains in the craft room, Jewelry and Gems Room or baked goods. Eddie’s Auction, Wheelbarrow of Groceries, Themed Baskets, Games of Chance, Kid’s Karnival, food.  Visit Stedwardconf.org.

17, Apple Fest at Davis Farmland, 11:00-3:00, 145 Redstone Hill Rd., Sterling. Enjoy fall fun on the farm! U-Pick apples and pumpkins, apple games and more! Visit davisfarmland.com or call 978-422-6666.

17, Saturday - Annual Car Show at Gardner PACC. 12:00-5:00, 171 Kendall Pond Rd., Gardner. At this end-of-the-year car show, awards will be given for cars, trucks and motorcycles. Rain date, September 28. Chicken BBQ and other food items, along with adult and regular beverages available.

17, Saturday, Brewery Tours at the Gardner Ale House, 1:00-4:00, 74 Parker Street, Gardner. Take a tour of the region’s only brewpub. Visit gardnerale.com.

17, Saturday, Angkor Cambodian Dance Troupe performs at Leominster City, 25 West St., Leominster. 3:00-5:00

17, Saturday, Fishing Clinic at Tully Lake Campground, 25 Doane Hill Road, Royalston. 3:00-4:30, Join Ranger Keith for lessons on proper fishing techniques including casting, general fishing tips, fish identification and catch and release. We supply the equipment and bait and will go on a short hike to the fishing hole. Member: $5; Nonmember: $10; Children under 12: free.

17, Saturday - A. R. Gurney’s Love Letters at the Shirley Meetinghouse, 41 Brown Rd., Shirley. Melissa and Andrew have been in love since second grade, yet circumstance and their own crushing insecurities have resulted in this inevitable romance never materializing. Opting instead for the safety of friendship, the pair keep up a constant correspondence through letters, cards, notes and invitations, a 50 year old paper trail which details all of their victories, defeats and dreams. 7:30-8:30, Admission: $15.00. Visit shirleymeetinghouse.org.

17, 18 Saturday and Sunday – 35^th Annual Fall Arts and Crafts Fair on the historic town common in Townsend MA at the junction of Route 119 and 13. Enjoy a New England Fall weekend fair on the historic town common! The work of talented artists, artisans and crafters will be on display for viewing and for purchase. Live music on Saturday; on Sunday the Townsend Military Band will hold its final concert for the season. Grilled foods and baked treats will all be available. Saturday, 9:00-4:00, Sunday, 10:00-4:00. For more information, contact townsendhistoricalsociety@yahoo.com or visit townsendhistoricalsociety.org

17-18, Saturday and Sunday – Apple Festival and Lanni Orchards, 8:00-6:00, 294 Chase St., Lunenburg MA, 978-582-6246, lanniorchards.com

18, Sunday - Classic Car Cruise & Tori/Marketplace. 10:00-3:00, Show off your vehicle, admire others! Shop for Finnish and Scandinavian wares, jewelry, crafts, baked goods….food! No admission fee. Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. www.saima-park.org.

18, Sunday - Dahlia Show at Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 10:00-4:00, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Presented by the New England Dahlia Society.  See hundreds of colorful blooms in every size imaginable–from silver dollar to dinner plate–at the first New England Dahlia Show. Floral designs will also be featured. Visit towerhillbg.org.

18, Sunday - Holy Cross Parish Family Festival & Chicken Dinner at the Otter River Sportsman’s Club, 11:00-3:00, 250 Lord Rd., Templeton. Tom’s Famous Chicken Dinner served noon–2 pm. Big money raffle, Chinese auction, bake sale, family games, 50/50 raffle and more. Call the rectory, 978-632-2121.

18, Sunday, Guide Tours of the Shirley Shaker Village, 12:30 pm,

Additional tours may be arranged for groups of eight or more. The site is part of the state prison system and can only be accessed by special arrangement. Our tour begins with a brief illustrated lecture on the history of the Shakers and the Shirley Village. Visitors go inside three Shaker buildings and travel by prison van to various locations around the property. Reservations must be made in advance for a cost of $15.00 per person, or $10 for Historical Society members. Repeats October 2 and 16. shirleyhistory.org, 978-425-9328

18, Sunday, Helicopter Weekend at Davis Farmland, 12:00-6:00, 145 Redstone  Hill Rd., Sterling. Get a bird’s eye view of Davis Mega Maze, Davis Outdoor Laser Tag & Davis Farmland! Helicopter rides available from 12 to 6. Call for rates & times 978-422-8888. davisfarmland.com

18, Sunday, Beatles for Sale performs at Coggshall Park, Electric Avenue, Fitchburg. 2:00-4:00, Enjoy this free outdoor concert by beautiful Mirror Lake.

18, Sunday, Historical Piano Concert at Ashburnham Community Church,4:00-5:00. 84 Main Street (Rt. 12) Ashburnham. Pianist Hsia-Jung Chang, on the  Bösendorfer piano, ca. 1830, Vienna Schubert, Impromptus Op. 142, and Beethoven, Sonata Op. 106, the “Hammerklavier.” $10.00, children and students, free. No advance reservations. Visit FrederickCollection.org or call Patricia Frederick, 978-827-6232.

18, Dinner on the Bridge at Bull Run – 4:30-8:00. You’ll be greeted with a glass of wine and a cellist playing live classical music as we gather on Bull Run’s Covered Bridge. You’ll learn the history of our iconic lattice-truss Covered Bridge built from an Eli Whitney design as you enjoy an outstanding meal prepared by our Executive Chef Stephen Barck. By the 4th wine pairing & course, you’ll have made a whole new table full of friends in a truly unique setting! Rain or shine. After all, it’s a Covered Bridge! 215 Great Rd., ShirleyMA Seating Limited. Bullrunrestaurant.com 978-425-4311

Scott Farm Orchard

Scott Farm Heirloom Apple Collection 

This is the beginning compilation of the apples we grow. As next harvest begins we will update with more pictures and descriptions of all 120 varieties. Scroll to the bottom of the page to see when we traditionally begin to harvest these varieties. Happy reading!

Scott Farm, 707 Kipling Rd., Dummerston VT (802) 254-6868 scottfarmvermont.com

Ananas Reinette

This small yellow skinned apple was grown in France and Belgium in the 1850’s. It has a zesty, pineapple, citrus flavor and flesh that has a fine grain, crisp texture. Used mostly for eating out of hand, but is also a fine cooking apple and makes a robust juice or cider.

 

Ashmead’s Kernel

Dr. Ashmead planted an apple seed in his garden in the early 1700s. It grew into a delicious variety that has won the highest awards from the Royal Horticultural Society. Kernel is another term for an apple tree grown from seed, and this one tastes like a crunchy lemon when it’s first picked and then the flavor mellows as the sugars develop. Ashmead has a fine grain flesh and is a “high acid, high sugar” apple like a Reinette. Smaller, golden russeted apple often with a red cheek.

 

Baldwin

A handsome, deep red apple originally from Massachusetts in the early 1700’s. There is a monument in Wilmington, MA where the original tree grew. This variety was the major New England apple until the 1930’s when a terrible freeze killed most of the trees. It is a hard apple, sometimes referred to as the woodpecker. It has the quintessential apple flavor and back in the day when pie was made for breakfast, it was a very hearty meal. This was the New Englanders apple of choice.

 

Belle de Boskoop

This apple is originally from the Netherlands and has a tart, sprightly flavor. It is a superb cooking apple and is the only apple considered suitable for making authentic strudel. Boskoops picked later in the fall are much sweeter and are excellent for fresh use. Very large apple greenish-orange, lightly russeted skin.

 

Black Gilliflower or Sheep’s Nose

A New England variety from the early 1800’s. Traditionally it’s used as a cooking apple due to its rich flavor and aromatic quality though many prefer it for fresh use. Gilliflower refers a clove flavor and black refers to the color the skin sometimes gets as it ripens. It’s also known as “Sheep’s Nose” because of its unusual shape, which tapers towards the base.

 

Black Oxford

From Oxford County, Maine. A handsome apple from the early 1800’s, it was the regional favorite for eating, cooking and making cider. This variety keeps so well that it is sometimes referred to as “the rock.” You can still find some of these old trees in the pastures and barn yards in Maine. Oxfords tend to be medium sized, deep purple to black skin with light russeting with a greenish-white flesh.

 

Blue Pearmain

A New England apple dating back to the early 1700’s. Henry David Thoreau wrote in his journal about his preference for Blue Pearmain. The crisp, rich flavor makes it a good apple for fresh eating and baking. Large purple-blue skin with light russeting.

 

Bramley’s Seedling

This apple dates back to 1803, in Nottinghamshire, England. It was and remains the most popular culinary apple in England. It’s excellent for pies, baked apples or combined with other apples for a crisp. This apple is very high in vitamin C. A green, rubenesque apple with a red cheek.

 

Calville Blanc d’Hiver

A French apple dating to 1598 with a champagne-like flavor and a wonderful texture when cooked. Of all the French apples, this one is considered the best to cook with because of its flavor and texture. It makes an excellent Tarte Tatin. Calville has a yellow skin with a red blush. Its shape is deeply lobed, often resembling a crown.

 

Chenango Strawberry

An apple from New York in the mid 1800’s. It is crisp, juicy and sweet. Some say it gets its name from the shape and color, while others say they taste a distinct strawberry flavor. We have a very limited crop and usually sell out quickly.

 

Claygate Pearmain

A fawn-colored, small russeted apple originally found growing in a hedgerow in Surrey England in the 1820s. Crisp, juicy with an aromatic honey flavor.

 

Cortland

A popular cooking apple which came from upstate New York in the late 1880’s. It’s a large, crisp apple with a green skin and red stripes. The flesh doesn’t oxidize rapidly so that cut slices stay white. It makes a beautiful pink sauce. A traditional favorite for pies or baked apples.

 

Cox’s Orange Pippin

The most popular of English apples, it has been awarded the highest honors by the Royal Horticultural Society. It was originally grown from seed (hence the name Pippin) in 1825 by Richard Cox, an amateur horticulturist. Its tart, citrus flavor is exquisitely tempered by a sweet pear flavor. It is excellent for eating and cooking. A small, round apple with orange skin, sometimes with some russeting.

 

D’Arcy Spice

A green, russeted apple originally from Essex, England. It has a crisp, aromatic, nutmeg flavor. This apple was traditionally picked on Guy Fawkes Day and hung in cloth bags from the tree limbs until December. One of our favorite apples here, the last apple we pick in the harvest season.

 

Dolgo Crab

These tangy crabapples originally came from Kazakhstan several hundred years ago. With an intense, zesty flavor similar to cranberries, their best use is in sauces, sorbets, chutney or as a condiment for meat or poultry. They make a beautiful rose-colored jelly. These have become very popular for hard cider. During harvest the crew will often suck on Dolgos for an energy boost to help finish filling that last apple bin late in the day. Small, cranberry red.

 

Duchess of Oldenburg

One of the finest cooking apples available, good for pies and sauces or crisps. Originally from Russia, it was introduced to the US around 1835. It was one of the main varieties first planted in the Scott Farm orchards in 1912. This apple stores well – we keep them in our cooler through September. A yellow-skinned apple with streaks of red.

 

Empire (not an heirloom)

A well known all around use apple. It has the best qualities of each of its parents, the McIntosh and the Red Delicious. A handsome red apple good for eating out of hand, it also makes a great crisp, and a good sweet cider apple.

 

Esopus Spitzenburg

Thomas Jefferson grew this variety at Monticello and it is said to be one of his favorite apples. It is considered one of the best highly flavored eating apples in America. It originally came from New York in the 1700’s. A blocky shaped apple with reddish-orange skin.

 

Fameuse/Snow Apple

This aromatic, crisp apple was the “famous apple.” Originally from Quebec, it was planted in the early 1600’s. One hundred years later, it was grown extensively in Northern New England. Zeke Goodband, Scott Farm’s orchard manager, found an old Fameuse tree in a farm yard in Maine and brought cuttings from it to Scott Farm. It is best for fresh use and is similar to McIntosh for cooking. A green skin with a red blush, similar to a McIntosh.

 

Franc Rambour

Rambour is the name in France given to a group of varieties characterized by large size and a ribbed, flat-sided shape. Rambour Franc is the best known and oldest of these, believed to have been from the village of Rambure. Recorded in 1535 by a French botanist and known in England around 1665. Widely grown throughout the continent and still found in French gardens. Large fruit, green with red stripes. Breaking, crisp, exceptionally juicy, aromatic flesh. Good for eating and sauce.

 

Fuji (not an heirloom)

A sweet, crisp apple from Japan which has only been grown in the US since the mid 1990’s. This apple stays crisp and is a good “keeper.” It is best for eating out of hand or in salads, but is also a good baked apple with a little maple syrup on top. Smooth-skinned apple with light red to pink color.

 

Gala(not an heirloom)

This is the most aromatic apple that we grow and the favorite of children who come to visit the orchard. It has an orange color and a sweet, crisp flavor. This tends to be a smaller apple, just the right size for lunch boxes.

 

Ginger Gold(not an heirloom)

A large yellow skinned apple which sometimes has a red blush. It is crisp and slightly sweet with a rich flavor. This apple has only been around for 20 years, but has become a popular early season apple. Available through mid-September.

 

Golden Russet

An English apple from the late 1600’s, it has a dense flesh with a honeyed flavor and a touch of citrus. Its juicy flesh makes it good for fresh use and baking, but it is especially sought after for cider making. Medium size apple with russeting, known as a leather-coat apple.

 

Gravenstein

A very old apple from Italy, grown in the USA since the late 1700s. The combination of both tart and sweet flavors makes this a wonderful culinary apple for pies, tarts, and sauces as well as a sprightly flavored eating apple. Good too when pressed as a single variety sweet cider. It’s available mid- August through mid-September. Large yellow green smooth skin with red blush.

 

Greening’s Rhode Island

Grown by Mr. Greening at his inn and tavern near Newport, Rhode Island. Although it is a good eating apple, it excels in baked goods. Pies made with this apple have won awards all over the world. Legend has it that this variety came from the tree of knowledge in the Garden of Eden. Large clear-green skin, tart flavor, often mistaken for Granny Smith.

 

Hewes Virginia Crab

Hewes Virginia Crab was grown in Thomas Jefferson’s orchard in Virginia circa the 1700’s for crafting hard cider. This little sugar bomb has a very sweet flavor with a bold traditional crab apple kick. Excellent for snacking or making crab apple jelly. This apple is a petite pink gem.

 

Hidden Rose (not an heirloom)

This apple was happily discovered in the 1960’s. The Hidden Rose Apple is a crunchy apple with a tart taste reminiscent of strawberry lemonade. They are mainly eaten out of hand, but their firm texture makes them great for cooking too. The pale green skin hides a shock of bright pink flesh giving the apple its name, Hidden Rose. A true aesthetic and culinary delight.

 

Holstein

A German apple from the early 1900’s, thought to be an offspring of Cox’s Orange Pippin. A crisp apple with a citrus flavor and a sprightly balance of sugars and acids. Sometimes there is a hint of pear. Good for eating and cooking. Tends to be a large apple with orange-reddish skin. Very juicy, this is a good apple to blend in with other apples in a pie or tart.

 

Honeycrisp (not an heirloom)

This apple is one of the most popular on the market today. A new American variety developed in Minnesota in 1991. They grow very well in Vermont and are picked when tree ripe. They have a refreshing blend of tart and sweet, with a crisp, breaking flesh, which means that a chunk breaks off when bitten into. Orange-colored skin with a red blush.

 

Hubbardston Nonesuch

The pride of Hubbardston, MA in the late 1700’s. For generations, this apple has been highly regarded as a dessert, or fresh use apple, although it’s also very good in crisps and pies. “Nonesuch” was an Americanized version of the French term “nonpareil,” which was used to describe apples of the finest flavor. A beautiful clear red skinned apple, this is one of the best early season heirlooms that we grow.

 

Hudson’s Golden Gem

An American apple from the early 1900’s. The original tree was a “chance seedling” found growing in a hedgerow. This golden russeted apple has a crisp, sweet flesh with a ripe pear flavor. This is one of the favorite apples at our tastings.

 

Jonagold (not an heirloom)

A crisp, juicy apple with a sprightly mix of sweet and tart flavors. A cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, it’s originally from New York. Our Jonagold is the original strain that came from New York state in the 1970’s.

 

Karmijn de Sonnaville

Originally from the Netherlands, it has a robust flavor with a hint of citrus. If you like a tart, crisp apple for cooking or eating, this is an excellent choice

 

Knobbed Russet

A lumpy, russeted apple from the early 1800’s sometimes known as “old maid in winter.” It has a delightfully crisp, sprightly flesh with a citrus overtone. This is another apple we grow that originally came from England.

 

Lady Apple

This is the oldest apple still being grown today, originally from France, these apples date back to the 1500’s. Because it was a small and flavorful apple, it was popular during the Renaissance, when ladies would keep one tucked away in their bosom and taken out to freshen their breath. Also known as the Christmas Apple, it was used for decorations. Yellow-green skin with a red cheek.

 

Lamb Abbey Pearmain

This is one of the most delightful apples in the world. 200 years ago, Mary Malcomb planted an apple pip, or seed, in her garden in Lamb Abbey, England. The fruit from the tree that grew was crisp and coarsely textured. The flavor is a lively blend of sugars and acids and pineapple, which becomes more pronounced as the harvest moves later into the fall. A small apple with light green skin with a reddish-orange blush.

 

Maiden’s Blush

This apple was grown for cooking and the “evaporation trade” or dried apples. It is an American apple originating in the late 1700’s. When apples were an important part of a familys winter food supply, almost every farm had one or two Maiden trees. Good for cooking, eating fresh, drying, or cider. Yellow, squat, round apple with a red blush.

 

Macoun (not an heirloom)

A deep red, flatish apple with a sweet, crisp, white breaking flesh. A popular farm stand apple, developed by Professor Macoun of Nova Scotia in the 1940’s.

 

McIntosh

The original McIntosh is from Ontario, Canada. The flavor is slightly tart, with a crisp and aromatic flesh.

 

Picture soon to come!

Muscadet de Bernay

A French apple from Bernay with high tannin and sugar content and a bitter-sharp flavor.

 

Newtown Pippin

This variety originated as a chance seedling in Queens County on Long Island, New York in the early eighteenth century and was the most famous colonial American apple. It was widely grown by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, who wrote from Paris that “they have no apples here to compare with our Newtown Pippin.” In 1838 the American minister to Great Britain presented Queen Victoria with a gift basket of these apples and in response Parliament lifted the import duties. It is one of the best keeping apples.

 

Northern Spy

The best use for this apple is for cooking, though it is admired for eating as well. Introduced in the mid 1800’s, it keeps well if refrigerated. It was named after James Fenmore Cooper’s novel, “The Spy,” which was very popular during this time. Spys tend to be large, reddish, smooth-skinned apples with bright white, crisp, juicy flesh.

 

Opalescent

This is an American heirloom that emerged during the latter part of the 19th century. The skin of this apple glows a brilliant ruby red with slight russeting. The flavor is sprightly and the flesh quite crisp.

 

Orleans Reinette

According to our orchard manager, this is “One of the most handsome apples on the planet.” Grown in France for hundreds of years, it has a flattened shape with a russeted, rosy cheek. It has a combination of citrus and nutty flavors, and makes for a good cooking apple as well as for eating out of hand. The famous English food writer, Edward Bunyard, enjoyed his Orleans Reinettes with port wine.

 

Paulared (not an heirloom)

Best for fresh use, or as we say in the orchard business, eaten out of hand. Mildly tart flesh is also good for pies and applesauce. It’s available through mid-September. Dark red skin, crisp white flesh.

 

Pinova (not an heirloom)

A very new German apple that is a relative of the Cox’s Orange Pippin. A blend of sweet and tart flavors makes this variety a favorite. Small conic shape, orange skin.

 

Pitmaston Pineapple

Raised in England around 1785, it has a sharp yet sweet, honeyed flesh. Small, golden yellow covered in fawn russet sometimes with a pineapple or honey-nut flavor.

 

Red Astrakan

Our first eating apple of the new season was originally from Russia. It is said that cuttings were brought to this country by Swedish immigrants in the early 1800’s. It’s good for fresh eating or sliced into yogurt or cereal and is also an old favorite for pies and sauce. The flesh is soft, with a sprightly flavor. A large red- striped apple.

Reine des Reinettes

A French apple from the 1700’s which has a high sugar content that’s balanced with acidity. It’s a juicy apple, good for eating out of hand or with a knife. It is also good for cooking and in Normandy it is considered the best apple for making hard cider. One of the top favorites at the tastings here on the farm. A large, beautiful apple, red blush with russeting.

 

Ribston Pippin

This apple goes back to 1708 in Yorkshire England. The original tree grew from seeds from Normandy. It is a parent of Cox’s Orange Pippin but is sweeter, with a delightful pear flavor. Good for both fresh eating and culinary use. Ribston is a recent favorite when we have tastings at the farm. Reddish skin, some orange and light russeting.

 

Roxbury Russet

This is the oldest American apple variety. Some folks say the flavor is similar to guava and the texture like a coconut. It has a very high sugar content, though you may not notice it due to the other complex flavors. Cider made from this apple is like nectar, it is so thick and sweet. A medium size apple with russeted skin, it is known as a leather-coat apple.

 

Sansa (not an heirloom)

A Japanese apple that is crisp, juicy, sweet and has ripe-pear flavor. It’s an offspring of the Gala and is Scott Farm’s most popular early season apple. It’s available through mid-September. Small apple with an orange-red blush over gold.

 

Shizuka(not an heirloom)

A large green and yellow Japanese apple, often with a red blush, that is similar to Mutsu. Sweet, crisp and juicy it is a favorite in our apple CSA.

 

Sops of Wine

An old English apple with a wine-like flavor. It’s similar to Hubbardston and is excellent for cooking or cider-making. Juicy, crisp, red apple.

 

Twenty Ounce

From the mid 1850’sthis American apple is by far the largest one we grow. It’s tart, zesty flavor makes it a favorite for pies and baking. It is also good for fresh use, but you’ll need some help finishing this huge apple! Green skin with red blush.

 

Picture soon to come!

Wickson

A crab-sized apple that may be an offspring of Newtown Pippin and Esopus Spitzenburg. A crisp apple with just a touch of acidity used primarily in hard cider. In a great year they yield 25 Brix. Red skin.

 

Winesap

A popular apple in the mid-Atlantic states, Winesap originated about 1817. It has a coarse grain and a very crisp, juicy white flesh. When ripe they have enough sugar to balance the strong, tart flavor. Excellent for both eating out of hand, cooking, and cider. Stores well. A medium sized red apple.

 

Winter Banana

A late maturing apple originating in Indiana in 1876, it has a beautiful pale yellow color with a red blush and a banana aroma. Its sweet and tart combination make it a good eating, cooking, and juicing apple.

 

Wolf River

This apple is from Wisconsin around the mid 1800’s. It became a very popular culinary apple in New England. They were so popular that they were packed in barrels and shipped to England. It’s a wonderful pie and baking apple. Sometimes one apple was enough to make a pie. Deep red skin with a bright white flesh.

 

Yellow Transparent

Dr. Hoskins of Newport, Vermont introduced this Russian apple to the USA in 1870. It became very popular and almost every farmstead had a tree. The flesh is soft and tart. Traditionally a sauce apple, it is one of the first fresh apples of the season. Pale yellow, smooth skin.

 

Zabergau Reinette

This apple is from the Zaber River region in Germany. It has sugary, sweet, walnut flavor that develops after it sits for a while. It’s excellent for cooking, sauces, and eating. A medium to large apple with russet skin

 

AUGUST 1Red AstrakanYellow Transparent

AUGUST 10

Duchess of Oldenburg

AUGUST – MID

Gravenstein

Dolgo Crab

AUGUST 23

Paulared

Sansa

Ginger Gold

Franc Rambour

Chenango Strawberry

SEPTEMBER 8

Hubbardston Nonesuch

Gala

McIntosh

SEPTEMBER 12

Lamb Abbey Pearmain

Pitmaston Pineapple

SEPTEMBER 16

Holstein

Cortland

Wolf River

Ananas Reinette

Honeycrisp

SEPTEMBER 21

Karmijn de Sonnaville

Cox’s Orange Pippin

Reine des Reinettes

Pinova

Maiden’s Blush

Fameuse/Snow Apple

Macoun

SEPTEMBER 28

Belle de Boskoop

Empire

Blue Pearmain

Hidden Rose

OCTOBER 1

Claygate Pearmain

Ashmead’s Kernel

Hudson’s Golden Gem

Sops of Wine

Shizuka

Bramley’s Seedling

Jonagold

OCTOBER 5

Calville Blanc d’Hiver

Ribston Pippin

Twenty Ounce

Orleans Reinette

Lady Apple

Knobbed Russet

Greening’s Rhode Island

Golden Russet

OCTOBER 7

Black Gilliflower or Sheep’s Nose

Esopus Spitzenburg

Zabergau Reinette

Wickson

Foxwhelp

Kingston Black

OCTOBER 10

Roxbury Russet

Baldwin

Northern Spy

Black Oxford

OCTOBER 14

Fuji

Winesap

Winter Banana

D’Arcy Spice

The Newtown Pippin

Muscadet de Bernay

Other fruits:

OCTOBER – EARLY

Quince

Aromatic fruit belonging, like apples, to the rose family. Best for baking with apples, preserves or roasting with game or meat dishes. A truly fragrant fruit! 

OCTOBER – MID

Medlars

Ancient fruit once popular throughout Europe and still popular in the Middle East. It also belongs to the rose family and resembles a brown rose hip which needs to soften or blett before eating. The flavor resembles a persimmon. Some people say it tastes like a very “cinnamony” apple sauce.