Summer Reunions

Summer Reunions
Fond memories are stored away from our summer reunions and vacations. This is as true today as it was in the 1800s. At the Henry and Sarah farm several family gatherings were hosted. These get-to-gathers were formalized in 1893 when the Indiana relatives pedaled their tandem bikes to visit their Casco cousins. These reunions have been held every year since. It must have been well attended in 1900 when all the 12 living kids of George and Elizabeth had their photo taken. Henry is 2nd from left in the back row.

Over 180 “cousins” attended the 50th (8-14-1943) and over 250 were at all or part of the two day 100th reunion (7-24/25-1993). Were you there? The 1993 cousins reunion was held at the Scott Lake Lodge one mile east of Pullman. This lodge has been replaced by a very nice home. Events included a history tour of Casco, golf outing, Will Rogers USA entertainment by Gene McFall, worship service, group photo and reunion picnic. I still have and wear my reunion t-shirt. These are real collectors items as there were only 150 made.

Do enjoy these last few days of summer. Hook up the camper to the big old van and hit the road one more time. That is what Martin, Lucy, Sandi, Marla, Carrie and Ron did in 1979. The hard working farmers will be deferring their get away until the harvest is completed.


The Farm August 15, 2009
Redhaven peaches are winding down as the flaming fury, coral star and glo haven verities are ripening. U-pick peaches should be available through the end of August. Paula Red apples are now available and near the end of August MaIntosh, Gala and Honeycrisp will be ripe. Pears and purple plums will also be ripe. U-pick apples will continue into October. Don’t forget to visit the farm website and print out the 10% off coupon. http://www.overhiserorchards.com/

This is the time of year to make jams and jellies and stock the freezer and canning shelves. We have frozen peaches, sour cherries and blueberries. When the purple plums are ripe I will pop them in zip lock bags and freeze them whole. Then this winter we can boil them, add a little sugar and presto – stewed prunes. Applesauce is also easy to make and freeze. Have fun supplying your home for the dog days of winter.
Don’t forget to eat My Brother’s Fruit!