Heritage Apple Day

Written By: Sandi Rogers, Cashiers Historical Society | Issue: March 2024

Trevor Howard shared his love of apple trees.

There was always a need for apples to feed our local families – some were eaten fresh, others were stewed or baked. Then there were apples that were made into cider, vinegar, or brandy.

And of course, apples were dried in the sun or in a heated dry house and made into preserves and apple butter.  Not to waste, even mediocre apples were used no matter their form and the worst of the fruit was used as livestock feed.

Zachary Family and Apples

Like most if not all of the early settlers to the Cashiers area the Zachary family had an apple orchard.  Mordecai and Elvira’s third child, Flora Jane, born March 30, 1856, who grew up at the Zachary homeplace, gives proof of the Zachary orchard found today on the grounds of the Cashiers Historical Society.

She wrote in her memories about her father’s orchard: “My father had a nice orchard of apple trees and I have been in the top of every one of them and gathered some of the most delicious apples anybody ever tasted; Granny Rogers, Morgans, and others.”

Today, some of the trees can still be found on the grounds at CHS.  However, it was Flora Jane’s uncle and Mordecai’s brother Alexander that gives the first written record of apple trees.

According to CHS Historian Jane Nardy, in order to make a living for his family, “Alexander farmed and cross-bred varieties of apples.” From 1847 to 1851 he recorded the names of the apple trees he planted in his store account book including the varieties and if he was planting or grafting them.  Alexander is credited with an orchard that included at least 21 varieties.  Some of the varieties included Junaluska Valley, Streeked, Red Horse, and Harvey.

A Special Friend

CHS has lost a special friend, Trevor Howard.

Trevor could be found many days in the orchard, trimming and just continuing to maintain Mordecai’s orchard.  As a long-time friend, Trevor also generously gave his time each year at the annual Heritage Apple Day.  He gave demonstrations that highlighted the event in grafting and answered questions on growing apples.

Trevor was also known for his many words of wisdom. Recently he made the comment that it “sounds technical but a lot of common sense is paying attention to what goes on around you when growing apples. That’s why I think apples and apple growing are such fun. Anyone can do it and learn a little bit more each year and try not to make the same mistake again.”

A Date to Remember

The date for 2024 annual Heritage Apple Day will be Saturday, March 23.  This annual event will once again be held at the Cashiers Community Center from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.  Join CHS as we honor our long-time friend Trevor and all the usual demonstrations, apple snacks and much more.