“ We do this just
for fun .”
— Brian Bensyl ,
Willow Barn owner
The Bensyls have planted eight rows of Indian corn , including the Bloody Butcher heirloom variety which is named for its dark red kernels . Many of the cobs , however , have multicolored kernels . Photo by Carol Roehm of Indian corn . Although he planted the Bloody Butcher heirloom variety – named for its dark red kernels – many of the cobs have multicolored kernels .
“ It could be any color ,” he said of growing Indian corn .
A pumpkin shed was built last year on the property where visitors can borrow a wagon to transport their finds from the pumpkin and gourd patches . The pumpkins and gourds are sold by size .
“ We charge by small , medium , large , extra large and extra extra large ,” Penny said .
Brian uses a tractor to move any giant pumpkins that are purchased .
School children also are welcome to visit the pumpkin patch and take home a souvenir from the field trip .
“ We ’ ve had preschool and kindergarteners come , so we ’ re open to school groups ,” Penny said .
The pumpkin patch has been a family affair since the beginning , and the Bensyls hope to continue that tradition .
“ Our great-niece Jaydah Arrowsmith , has been instrumental in the whole process ,” Penny said . “ She ’ s been helping us every year with planting and selling .
“ We ’ re hoping our three grandkids will help us sell pumpkins next ,” she added .
8 ILLIANA MAGAZINE — FALL 2022