A fourth-generation apple orchard in the heart of Sterling, Massachusetts, Sunny Crest orchard is a “century farm” established in 1880. The Hawkins Lane property was founded by Thomas Hawkins, and its farmhouse, which still exists today, is estimated to have been built between 1740 and 1760.

The original 29-acre property served as a dairy farm. Thomas Hawkens passed the land to William E. Broderick. In 1950, his son Henry T. Broderick — also the Massachusetts Commissioner of Agriculture — opted to sell the dairy herd. The current owner, William E. Broderick, inherited the land in 1985.

Since it was founded, the farm has expanded by 106 acres. It now sells fruit wholesale and directly to consumers. In addition to apple varieties like Cortland, Empire, Macoun, and McIntosh, Sunny Crest Orchards produces peaches, plums, nectarines, and cherries.

Sources: facebook.com, MA Century Farms
Photo: facebook.com