Escapees September-October 2022

originally established by the University of Nebraska to demonstrate that southeastern Nebraska land could be used for commercial orchard purposes. Later, this apple orchard was sold to the Lechner families. In 2011, Terry and Carla Wostrel purchased this orchard of 6,500 trees. The family, realizing that most of the trees were over 50 years old, decided to replant 18 varieties of trees on 30 acres. The remaining land would be planted with pumpkins, heirloom squash, asparagus, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and elderberries. This orchard has become somewhat like “Disney World” with food and entertain ment. A children’s indoor playroom and outside areas accommodate all kinds of children’s play equipment and activities. Gazebos offer places to sit and view scenic beauties. “In fact, this orchard offers many activities for the entire family during festi vals, such as the Asparagus Festival, in May; the Strawberry-Rhubarb Festival, in June; the Peach Festival, in July; and the Tomato Festival, displaying 33 kinds of Heritage tomatoes, in August; the Apple Festival, in

September; and the Pumpkin Festival, in October. The country store at the orchard offers fresh fruits and vegetables as well as home baked apple, caramel apple, cherry, peach and strawberry rhubarb pies. In addition, turnovers, apple butter, apple donuts and pumpkin butter are available. The snack bar also has many offerings. This orchard’s Central Apple Market, located at 701 Central Avenue in Nebraska City, Nebraska, features Hammond’s Candies, wine glasses, candles and their own “orchard scented” spa products. Also for local Husker fans, this market sells Nebraska University trays, cups, apparel and more. Going well with wine are all kinds of creamy, crumbly cheeses. Kimmel Orchard Another orchard in the rolling hills of Nebraska, on 90 acres of land and near the Morton homestead, is Kimmel Orchard, located at 5995 G Road.” This orchard marked the beginning of a rich and innova tive agricultural tradition in southeastern

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIMMEL ORCHARD & VINEYARD

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September/October 2022 ESCAPEES Magazine