One of Roxbury’s greatest treasures is… an apple!

The Roxbury Russet is the oldest known apple cultivar, or breed, found in the United States. First harvested by English settlers in Roxbury in the seventeenth century, it was used primarily to make cider to drink. When stored in a cool, dry place, these apples can last all winter - perfect for colonial New Englanders, who sought ways to preserve their foods before refrigeration.

On Saturday, October 21 from 11am - 3pm, make your way over to our friends at the Dillaway-Thomas House/Roxbury Heritage State Park for a family-friendly day of fall themed snacks, crafts, vendors, and historical activities. Shirley-Eustis House staff and representatives will be co-hosting the event. The festival will include:

• Crafts such as make-your-own dried herb sachets and rag wreaths

• A mini-exhibit on apple history through botanical art

• Free cider and snacks (including apple cider donuts!)

• A fall themed scavenger hunt

• Resources from local urban farming initiatives (UMass Extension and BFCLT)

• Demonstrations of how to make apple juice and cider on a historic apple press

• AND MORE!

At 6pm, orchardist and pomologist John Bunker will give an hour-long lecture on the history of the Roxbury Russet, and answer attendee questions on the breed. This portion of the event is sponsored by Roxbury Historical Society, and will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry (UUUM), just across the street.

We hope to see you there!

The festival is free to all attendees, and will take place rain or shine. For more information, contact Rachel at programs@shirleyeustishouse.org or (617)-442-2275.