Family and Fruitgrowing - a slow food story in the New England

  Our History

When orchard pioneer John Yeomans settled on ‘Green Hill’ in 1865, he began a long and very strong family connection with this special place. Joined by wife Emma, and his parents John & Ann, they planted trees in the rich New England soil.

Generations following have been nourished by this land, farming through good seasons and bad, market changes and major world events. Although mixed farming included various livestock and cropping enterprises over time, fruit has been a mainstay. John Henry (3rd generation) further established the orchard business, built Greenhill Cottage and kept diaries, with daily entries of farm and family life.

 
 

March 1999

 

 Over the years, many family members have made a significant contribution to orchard life, with hard work, resilience, innovation and perseverance. Husbands and wives, children, brothers, sisters, cousins and in-laws, helping with harvest, making memories.

While most have branched out into other fields, Clarrie 1913 - 2012 (the orchardist), Ken (the bush mechanic) and Warren (the horticulturist) stayed, living and working at ‘Greenhill’. 7th generation Tom (engineer & novice cidermaker) and Henry (pastoralist) have already made their mark.

We’re looking forward to seeing the 8th generation continue to grow and flourish, however they choose to connect with their roots.