Bishop's Orchards facts for kids
Bishop's Orchards is a special family farm located in Guilford, Connecticut. It's not just a farm; it's also a shop where you can buy fresh produce, a fun place for visitors, and even a winery that makes fruit wines!
This farm has been run by the Bishop family since 1871. Over many years, Bishop's Orchards grew to cover about 313 acres. The Bishop family still manages everything, from making big decisions to helping customers and taking care of the crops. In 2007, the family made a plan to make sure the farm stays in their hands for many more years.
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Welcome to Bishop's Orchards
A Family Farm Since 1871
Bishop's Orchards started as a small family farm way back in 1871. For over 150 years, the Bishop family has worked hard to grow fruits and vegetables. They have always been in charge of the farm, making sure everything runs smoothly. This long history makes Bishop's Orchards a very special place in Connecticut.
Fun Activities for Everyone
Bishop's Orchards is a popular spot for visitors! Many people come to shop at their retail market, which sells fresh produce and other goodies. During certain times of the year, you can even pick your own apples and pumpkins. This is a super fun activity for families and friends. Local school groups also visit the farm to learn about farming and enjoy the outdoors.
Making Delicious Fruit Wines
The Bishop's Orchards Winery
Did you know Bishop's Orchards also has its own winery? They make tasty fruit wines using fruits grown right on their farm. Imagine wines made from fresh apples, peaches, pears, and even raspberries! The winery is part of the Eastern Connecticut Wine Trail, which is a route that connects different wineries in the area.
The Shoreline Wine Festival
Since 2006, Bishop's Orchards has hosted the Shoreline Wine Festival every August. This exciting event brings together wineries from all over the Connecticut Wine Trail. It's a chance for people to try different wines and enjoy the festive atmosphere at the farm.
Exploring Green Energy
The Wind Turbine Study
In 2010, the owners of Bishop's Orchards looked into a cool idea: building a wind turbine on their property. They spent two years studying the wind using a tall tower, about 197 feet high. They wanted to see if a wind turbine could help them make their own electricity. While they found it wasn't the best idea at that time, they might consider it again in the future. It shows they are always thinking about new ways to be environmentally friendly!
