Three generations of the Butler family gathered in 2016 at the large stone placed in memory of co-founder George Butler Jr . and a tree planted in memory of Todd Butler . From left to right , Ben , Susan , Shirley , Tyler , Wade , and Hallie , with family dog Dakota . [ Shirley and Susan have since passed away .]
dren . Todd ’ s tragic passing in 2010 ers and pumpkins .. Seasonal pickyour-own crops are a huge draw . after a farm-related accident was not only devastating to the extended family and shocking to the a year enjoy what has become an
More than 100,000 patrons close-knit local farming community , it also was a wakeup call to put ways for kids of all ages to play .
amusement park of farm-inspired
a succession plan in place . Susan Visitors can climb through a retired in 2017 to create room for a wooden pirate ship , a choo-choo new generation , passing down her train , or playhouse ; kids can pedal focus on personal connections and child-size tractors around a track what she called “ supreme customer service .” tor model ; a playground includes
circling a giant wooden trac-
super slides with names like Belly
A New Take on Farming
Bouncer and Wildcat Run . The
“ Barnyard Buddies ” corral allows Today Butler ’ s Orchard teems with for up close visiting with goats a wide variety of activity almost and sheep , and picnic tables under year ‘ round . With more than 300 large shady trees dot the grounds . acres in production , they grow a The Farmer ’ s Porch kitchen grew large variety of vegetables ; their from a snack menu to a fullservice restaurant after hiring an famous berries include strawberries , blueberries and blackberries ; experienced chef in 2020 . The they grow and sell Christmas trees , Butlers built large , airy pavilions herbs , apples , and a variety of flow- to host parties and corporate team-building events . Annual festivals include “ Bunny-Land ” in the Spring and the Pumpkin Festival in the fall , with face painting , pony rides , live music , a corn maze , and hayrides . Sunflower fields are a big attraction in the fall . Other seasonal activities include yoga classes , flower-arranging workshops , and private bonfires . As Ben puts it , “… we ’ re not just selling farm-fresh produce , we ’ re helping families and friends make memories .” Butler ’ s Orchard
Farm Market store has become a phenomenon unto itself with Hallie as the main buyer , and seasoned retail managers ensuring top quality merchandising . With the look and feel of a 19th century general store , the market provides produce from their own farm plus select options from other local farms : ice cream , milk , butter and other dairy products ; local meat and eggs ; along with locally baked breads , pies , cookies , pastries , and other treats . Beyond the farmraised food items , Butler ’ s Farm Market is also one of the greatest gift shops in the County ( according to this writer !), with a fabulous array of jams , jellies , oils , pastas , and specialty groceries ; beautiful books on themes of nature , garden , farm , or cooking . With unusual and clever kitchen utensils , tableware , home décor , and gardening tools , and an entire section of children ’ s books and toys themed on farming and nature , this market store is a go-to shopping destination for thoughtful gift giving .
14 plenty I autumn Harvest 2023