The Norfolk Fruit Growers’s Association in Ontario is celebrating its centenary and 100 years since it first exported to the UK this year.
On March 26, 1906 James E. Johnson brought together 16 apple producers in Norfolk County, Ontario to form the organization that would become The Norfolk Fruit Growers' Association.
The association grew rapidly and within a few years had more than 300 members as many new orchards were planted.
It exported apples to the United Kingdom from its inception, originally in barrels, and continues its export business today in the UK with Empire variety. Now the newest varieties, Honeycrisp and Ambrosia, are coming into production.
The association hosted an open house for the local community over the weekend and welcomed almost 1,000 people to view its operations. “The numbers were greater than we expected,” said Tom O’Neill, NFGA general manager. “We are also fortunate that Keith Collver, former manager has been inducted into the Onatario Agriculture Hall of Fame.” Collver introduced Empire to the UK market.
The association will mark its centenary with members and the industry at a dinner in June.
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