History of Apples in Gays Mills
The apple-growing history of Gays Mills began with early farmers recognizing the fertile lands along the Kickapoo River. In 1905, John Hays and Ben Twining gathered apples from local farmers to showcase at the State Fair. Their exhibit not only won first prize but also earned top honors at a national apple show in New York.
Inspired by this achievement, the Wisconsin State Horticulture Society initiated 'trial orchards' statewide, to interest growers in commercial production. The society also planted a five-acre site on High Ridge with recommended apple varieties. By 1911, the Gays Mills orchard had flourished, prompting the formation of an organization dedicated to promoting orchard sales. Today, Gays Mills boasts over a thousand acres of apple orchards, celebrated nationally for their exceptional color and flavor.
Inspired by this achievement, the Wisconsin State Horticulture Society initiated 'trial orchards' statewide, to interest growers in commercial production. The society also planted a five-acre site on High Ridge with recommended apple varieties. By 1911, the Gays Mills orchard had flourished, prompting the formation of an organization dedicated to promoting orchard sales. Today, Gays Mills boasts over a thousand acres of apple orchards, celebrated nationally for their exceptional color and flavor.
The Orchards of Gays Mills
Please contact the orchards directly for current hours, as they may vary during the apple season.
Orchard |
Hours |
Open DAILY 9 am - 5 pm Mid-August to Mid-December 9 am - 4 pm November & December Apples, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Cider, Caramel Apples, Apple Slush, Specialty Foods, Cranberries, Cheeses, Sausages, Gifts, FREE Samples, mums, gourds, pumpkins. |
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Fleming Orchard 608-735-4625 |
Open DAILY 9 am - 5 pm September 1 to October 31 Apples, apple cider, apple pies, turnovers, pumpkins, potatoes, onions, gourds, jams, honey, spices, soups. |
Open DAILY 9 am - 5 pm June - November Cider House, You-Pick Cherries & Apples, Specialty Makers Market, Photo Ops, & Heirloom Apples. Free Tastings, Bakery, Deli, Wholesale Cider, Group Tours & Gift Boxes. |
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Open DAILY 9 am - 5 pm Mid-August to Mid-December 9 am- 4 pm November & December Apples, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Pies, Apple Turnovers, Apple Cider, Caramel Apples, Apple Slush, Bakery, Specialty Foods, Cranberries, Cheeses, Sausages, Gift Shop, Apple Gift Boxes, FREE Samples. Dog Walk Park, Sunrise Family Playground, Sunrise Express Model Train, Apple Packing TV, Events, Online Store: Open 24/7 |
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Turkey Ridge Organic Orchard 608-735-4660 |
Open DAILY 9 - 5 pm September 1 to December |
Open DAILY 9 am - 5 pm August - October You-Pick peaches, sunflowers, and pumpkins. Specialty makers market, apples, fresh Kickapoo Orchard bakery available daily. |
Orchards of Gays Mills
