Our History
In 1939 C.A. Swanagan opened "Swanee Orchards." Several acres of apples, peaches, pears, grapes and other fruits were grown on approximately 100 acres. The orchard became a favorite spot for travelers and local residents to find their favorite fruit. Throughout the years, "Swanee Orchards" became well known for their fresh made cider. A contract with Stuckey Gas Stations was secured and "Swanee Orchard's Cider" was sold throughout the country!
In 1942, Elmer L. May and his family moved to the orchard and began learning the trade of growing quality fruit from Mr Swanagan. Elmer raised his family and worked his way up at the orchard to foreman. Over the years, Elmer became Mr Swanagan's right hand man.
Upon the death of Mr Swanagan in 1963, the orchard ownership was transferred to Elmer. Elmer continued to produce quality fruit over the years. In 1977, Elmer's grandson, Dallas, came to work at the orchard. Dallas continued to work at the orchard learning the trade of growing quality fruit until 1985.
In 1985, Dallas entered the United States Air Force where he spent the next 21 years serving his country. This marked the end of Swanee Orchards as Elmer retired and closed the doors.
In 1993, Dallas was transferred back home to Terre Haute, Indiana and immediately began taking care of the few remaining acres of trees. Along with the help of his family he planted more trees and began selling apples out of a converted garage. In 2008, a new roadside stand was built and increased the orchards business by 100%. Additionally, that same year a cider press was purchased and that great tasting cider was again produced at "Swanee Orchards." Over the years Dallas along with his wife Catherine and daughters, Tracy and Amanda, helped bring Swanee Orchards back to the Wabash Valley. Today Swanee Orchards opens in June with apples and peaches and closes in December with the last apple and Christmas wreaths. The orchard is well known for its farm and school tours and has become a family tradition for many families in the fall.
SWANEE ORCHARDS
WHERE QUALITY GROWS
