History, Food and Fun at Lyman Orchards

Since 1741, the Lyman Family of Middlefield has been a vital contributor to Connecticut’s rich agricultural history. Eight generations later, the family’s 1,100 acre family farm remains a popular destination for visitors seeking great food and wholesome family fun. Now, with spring at its peak and the promise of a sweet crop of strawberries just weeks away, Lyman Orchards celebrates its home state on “Connecticut Day,” an annual event featuring the best of Connecticut foods and beverages, and offering special free activities for visiting families from all over to enjoy.

See the state on display at Apple Barrel market and historic Homestead on Saturday, May 19^, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can enjoy children’s workshops and cooking demonstrations, free raffles, fun Connecticut Trivia Challenges, and a genealogical glimpse into Connecticut’s rich history, as well as complimentary tastings of Connecticut-made foods.

May is Personal History Month. There’s no better time to get started on building your own Family Tree!  From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lyman Homestead, genealogists from the Godfrey Memorial Library, Middletown, will provide free ancestral consultations for visitors inspired to learn more about their own family history.   

The Library’s knowledgeable staff will guide visitors through the process of tracing their family roots using the Godfrey’s vast collection of genealogical records and local and international histories. About 20 to 30 minutes in length, the free consultations at the Homestead may be arranged in advance; contact Karen Augeri at 860-349-6007 or at kaugeri@lymanorchards.com.  

Presentations on Connecticut history will take place at the Homestead from 10:00 to 3:00 p.m. Visitors are also welcomed to visit the Homestead kitchen where they can indulge in free tastings of desserts originating from Lyman family recipes. 

Enjoy special treats and surprises from Lyman’s bakery ovens throughout the day. Connecticut specialty foods highlighted during the day include salad dressings made by Hopkins Inn in Preston, dairy products from Farmer’s Cow, Giff’s Sauces and Condiments, Kathy’s Superseedz health snack, and Connecticut-made grilling and barbecue sauces. 

At 11:00 a.m., children of all ages can enjoy the sweet experience of dipping apples into creamy fudge, and decorating them with colorful, sweet candy toppings. Fee for the Fudge Apple Workshop is $10 per child. Pre-registration is required. Call 860-349-6043. 

With strawberry season fast approaching, a timely strawberry jam-making demonstration will be presented by noted Durham farmer and canning expert Phyllis Naples Valenti at 1:00 p.m. in the Apple Barrel. Free tastings and jam recipes will be provided.

Lyman Orchards' Connecticut Day Schedule for Saturday, May 19, 2012

Hours: 10-4 p.m.

Admission: Free 

Fudge Apple Workshop for Children 11 a.m. ($10 fee, Reserve at 860-349-6043)

Strawberry Jam Making Demonstration 1 p.m.

Connecticut History Presentation 10-3 p.m., at the Lyman Homestead

Genealogy Consultations - Contact Karen Augeri 860.349.6007 or kaugeri@lymanorchards.com

Food Tastings in the Apple Barrel 10-4 p.m.