Johnny Appleseed Orchard: A Family Legacy

Tucked away on a charming country road called Crocks Point Road in Keswick Ridge, New Brunswick, Johnny Appleseed Orchard has long been a cornerstone of local agriculture and tradition. Founded in 1954 by John Robertson of Douglas, NB, this orchard introduced the concept of U-Pick to the community, offering a new way to harvest and enjoy fresh apples. When the orchard was sold in 1981 to Vincent Gilmore and his father Harold, the Gilmores merged it with their own orchard, preserving and growing the legacy. Now, over 70 years later, Johnny Appleseed Orchard continues to thrive under the stewardship of Vincent and his wife Crystal, who have passionately run the U-Pick for an impressive 43 years.

A Diverse Bounty: Apples, Pumpkins, and More

The orchard spans 10 acres and has been filled with over 575 apple trees, including heritage varieties that have produced bountiful harvests for over 80 years. "Our heritage trees are special; they represent generations of care and tradition," Crystal shares. The apples are cherished for quality, with varieties perfect for pies, sauces, and fresh eating. Besides apples, the orchard also grows pumpkins, squash, and gourds, which add to the seasonal charm. Pre-picked apples are available for purchase at their farm stand, providing a convenient option for those eager to taste the freshness without picking.

The U-Pick season starts in early September and runs through mid-October, drawing families, friends, and apple enthusiasts eager for the hands-on experience of gathering their own apples. “Each fall, we welcome visitors who make this trip a tradition,” says Vincent. “Growing apples for everyone to enjoy and helping people see where their food comes from is very rewarding indeed.”

Embracing Rustic Charm and Tradition

Unlike many orchards that have expanded into attractions, Johnny Appleseed Orchard retains a rustic charm that brings people back to simpler times. There are no food trucks, corn mazes, or entertainment structures here—just the beauty of the orchard and the peace of nature. Crystal explains, “People come here for the simplicity and the old-fashioned feel. We’ve had visitors say, ‘Don’t change anything—we love it just the way it is.’”

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the property in their own way, whether by having a picnic on the grounds or capturing photos of the scenic landscapes. Crystal remarks, “If we had a dollar for every time someone said how beautiful our orchard is, we wouldn’t need to sell apples at all.”

Generational Connections and Memorable Experiences

Johnny Appleseed Orchard has become a tradition for many families who visit each year. Some guests who first came as children now return with their own families, adding layers to the orchard’s history. "One long-time customer told us, ‘I’ve been coming here since I was four,’” Crystal shares. “It’s amazing to see people return year after year. The orchard becomes a part of their story, too.”

Vincent and Crystal extend their hospitality to all ages and abilities. “For those who have difficulty walking, we let them drive right into the orchard to pick apples,” says Vincent. “It’s all about making sure everyone feels welcome.” This care has fostered a community of visitors who feel at home in the orchard’s peaceful embrace.

Supporting Local Food and Sustainability

The orchard’s appeal resonates with the growing "buy local" movement, as more people prioritize locally sourced food. “It’s heartening to see people focus on local produce,” Vincent notes. “They want fresh, New Brunswick-grown apples and appreciate the difference it makes.”

Despite its popularity, Johnny Appleseed Orchard remains a small, family-run operation. Vincent and Crystal manage the orchard themselves, only bringing in help at the end of the season to clear fallen apples. “It’s just us, and we like it that way,” Crystal explains. This dedication keeps the experience personal and the connection with visitors strong.

Looking to the Future

While expansion might be an option for others, Vincent and Crystal are content with maintaining the orchard’s timeless appeal. They cherish the simplicity that sets Johnny Appleseed Orchard apart. "We’re not here to compete with big attractions," Crystal remarks. "We’re here to give people a taste of something real that connects them to the land and each other."

Looking forward, they hope the orchard will continue to serve as a peaceful retreat and a reminder of the value of tradition. "This place is more than an orchard; it’s a legacy," Vincent says. "We want to preserve that for the next generation, just as it was passed down to us."

Visit Johnny Appleseed Orchard

Johnny Appleseed Orchard is more than just a U-Pick farm; it celebrates heritage, community, and the beauty of keeping things simple. Each visit is a chance to connect with nature, enjoy fresh apples, and be part of a story that has lasted decades. As Crystal puts it, "If there’s one thing we’ve learned, people don’t just come here for apples. They come here for the memories."

For more information and to plan your visit, follow Johnny Appleseed U-Pick Orchards on Facebook.