Rooted in History: How Orchards Shaped Door County

Cherries and apples have long been part of Door County’s identity, but how did fruit growing become one of the peninsula’s most recognizable industries?

Join the Door County Historical Society on Monday, November 23, for our final Dine & Discover program of 2026, as we explore the fascinating history of Door County’s orchards and the people who helped them flourish.

Our November program features Joe Taylor of the Door County Museum & Archives, who will take us back to the early days of fruit growing on the peninsula. Discover how Door County’s unique geology and climate, along with immigration, agriculture, and tourism, combined to create an industry that shaped our communities, economy, and way of life.

The presentation will feature historic artifacts from the Door County Museum collection, bringing the stories of local orchardists and their families to life. Attendees will also enjoy a special presentation of recently digitized vintage audio and video recordings featuring people who played a direct role in Door County’s fruit-growing history.

From the first orchards to the thriving cherry and apple industry we know today, this program offers a fascinating look at a defining chapter of Door County history.

Annual Membership Meeting Before Dinner

We will also hold the Door County Historical Society’s Annual Meeting of the Membership at 5:30 p.m. sharp, immediately before dinner. Members are encouraged to attend as we reflect on an extraordinary centennial year and look ahead to the future of the Society.

Dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m., with Joe Taylor’s presentation to follow.

Event Details

• Date: Monday, November 23, 2026
• Location: Prince of Peace Church, Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
• 5:30 p.m.: Annual Meeting of the Membership
• 6:00 p.m.: Dinner
• Following dinner: Dine & Discover presentation

Join us for an evening of good food, great company, and local history as we wrap up our centennial year of Dine & Discover programs.