Keeping a Legacy Alive: Things change and stay the same at Allenholm Farm

Apples abound in fall at Allenholm Farm in South Hero. Image courtesy of Alenholm Farm.

by Emily Alger

A Year of Changes at Allenholm

I called on Ray C. Allen, fifth generation farmer at Allenholm Farm, on a blustery March day. Looking out at the bare branches of the apple trees, it was hard to imagine they would soon be covered in pink and white blossoms, then green leaves, and finally be laden with heavy fruit.

2020 was a year filled with change and challenge, even beyond the effects of the pandemic. The spring shutdown and ongoing restrictions impacted the business in many ways. But then Ray’s father, Ray W., was taken and moved to a nursing facility off-island. His stepmother, Pam, passed away on Christmas Day. Ray C. stepped in to keep the orchard open, and is now looking to the future of the farm. Allenholm Farm has a 150 year-old family legacy and an important spot in the heart of many Islanders.

151 Years on a South Hero Farm

Reuban Allen and his son Horace built Allenholm Farm in 1870, and it is the oldest commercial apple orchard still operating in Vermont. The Allen family grows 25 acres of apples, as well as tart cherries, blueberries, and raspberries. Many an Islander and visitor have picked their first apple at Allenholm Farm, during the busy pick-your-own season. The farm is both a historical gem in Vermont and a vibrant part of our community today.

Ray W Allen with his father Reuban. Image courtesy of Allehnolm Farm,

The Conservation Project that Started it All

The farm was conserved by Ray W. and Pam Allen in 1997, the first conservation project ever undertaken by South Hero Land Trust (in partnership with the Vermont Land Trust and Vermont Housing and Conservation Board). In fact, the conservation of Allenholm Farm was the impetus for the creation of the South Hero Land Trust. With a great location on South Street, good soils, and municipal water, the farm would have been a prime spot for development. But as the fourth generation of Allens to manage the farm, Ray W. and Pam were determined to protect the land and allow future generations of Allens to grow apples on the land. They were proud of their children, grandchildren, and even greatgrandchildren, many of whom grew up on or near the farm and might carry it into the future.

The Fifth Generation Looks to the Future

Ray C. grew up on the farm, and raised his own five children there. It was clear, as we sat overlooking the orchard, that Ray C. feels deeply connected to the land, and knows every inch of it. He also clearly feels a profound love for the community and has a strong sense of responsibility to South Hero and the Islands

(exemplified by his long career with the County Sheriff ’s office, which he now leads as Sheriff). His son Andy, from the sixth generation of Allens, is working at his side this year.

Two faces we will miss seeing this year: Ray W Allen and his wife Pam Allen. Image courtesy of Allenholm Farm.

2020 may have been a devastating year in many ways, but there were bright spots. When Ray C. mentioned the pick-your-own season last fall, I braced myself for a story of hardship. On the contrary, it was one of their best seasons yet. Ray C. brightened with the memory of visitors old and new, from across Vermont, coming to spend a day in the orchard: picking apples, savoring a maple creemee, and passing the time with the Allens. Ray C. set up a special science experiment for the kids, and was pleased to welcome the newest members of families who’ve been visiting for generations.

And this enthusiasm seems characteristic of Ray’s outlook on the future. He is looking forward to the growing season, and he and Andy are full of ideas. The orchard will be opening this summer, and local baker Julia Small will be keeping up with the handmade pies, as well as providing other treats for visitors. You’ll still be able to get the best maple creemee around at the farm store. Ray C. is also looking forward to bringing one of his favorite fair foods to the orchard, cotton candy. The animals in the petting paddock have all moved to good homes, but there will still be a friendly face to welcome you. Allenholm Farm, along with many local farm stands and farm stores will be opening for the summer season soon! You can get the latest updates on farm and food offerings, hours, etc... in the Northwest Vermont Grown Guide to Agriculture at www.northwestvermontgrown.com. And South Hero Land Trust will be printing an updated Champlain Islands Grown Map of Grand Isle County in late May, so stay tuned for that great resource too.