The Jonathan Fisher House will host special tours of the orchard on the historic property during regular visitor hours on Saturday, July 12 from 1-4 PM.

Leslie Cummins and Tim Seabrook will guide visitors through the reconstructed historic orchard and discuss Fisher’s original design and planting, as well as the process of re-establishing the orchard based on the documented apple varieties from Fisher’s original orchard map, including the Roxbury Russet (a then-newly-established American variety), the Golden Russet (a very ancient variety) and the Ribston Pippin (a famous British variety).

Many people are rediscovering old orchards these days, but Jonathan Fisher’s is unique in its level of documentation. Just like Johnny Appleseed and other pioneers, Fisher planted apple seeds first (seeds being easier to carry than saplings) and then later top-grafted a known valued tree onto the young seeded tree. There is an example of Fisher’s top grafting on our 200+ year-old pear tree, which was recently DNA-tested to determine its variety. Curious about the results? Join us to learn more!

Tours of the orchard are free, but donations to support the Fisher House are always welcome. Visitors may also tour the interior of the historic house before or after visiting the orchard ($10 suggested donation for house tour).