Growing up in the Fenton area the cider mill was a fall tradition. Raised with horses through my younger years leaves me with fond, faint memories of riding the horses with my older sister through the woods behind the barn. Following somewhat of a trail over the big wooded hills we would find ourselves in the orchards belonging to “Peabody’s”. The fields were full of old farm machinery, pear trees and of course no shortage of apple trees. It was a delight to reach over and pick an apple off the tree to bite into. The horses had no reservations on picking an apple or two for themselves. Peabody’s were friendly and trusted us to treat their property respectfully and welcomed our visits. Peabody orchard was more of a business for collecting the fruit and shipping off in large wooded crates for juice production.
As a family we would venture in the station wagon to “Parshalville Mill” to what was in my mind the definition of a true cider mill. The old towering weathered building next to the water with the large water wheel on the side. It seemed tucked away off the beaten path in the country. A tiny village in the woods setting almost like little House on the Prairie perhaps. The bees buzzed everywhere you went and the sound of the small creek and water flow through the dam.
Another spot was “Deihl’s Orchard” with its country feel but more of a field setting.
As years passed on the horses were gone, as was the farm. I started my family and began taking them to Parshalville Mill many times over the years, Deihls as well. Another place came about that we truly enjoyed called Spicer’s Orchard. These children now have similar memories and now take there children. Occasionally we visit “Three Cedars Farm” together, a newer addition near South Lyon where we enjoy the bees, donuts and cider, the animals and watching the little ones play.
Things have changed since my younger days. Spicer's now has cleared acres upon acres of fields for parking and the cars line up all the way down the US 23 off ramp, they charge for most all things that once were free. Three Cedars is tremendously busy on weekends but weekdays allows a much smaller crowd. Parshalville is moderately busy. Deihls I just can’t say. Is it still there?? Peabody’s sold land to developers for housing. Everything seems to be big business when compared to years ago. But I imagine to my grandchildren, they don’t know this. It’s just good fun and, hopefully memories.
You can’t stop change. And I suppose that’s just how life is. But I do miss being one of maybe ten families at any given weekend who would be present. Oh the crowds that show up now.
Some years ago we found a wonderful place called “Anderson’s” now “Anderson and Girls” up near the Stanton area. While it too draws a grand number of people it really is a treasure for cider, donuts and many other sweets. They have a number of animals for the children (and adults) including several exotic animals such as camels, mountain lions, wolfs, etc. If I was to recommend a place in this day and age worth a day trip it would be this place for sure. A few little towns to pass through, a touch of scenery and a great destination all in all.
Well gentleman, my pipe has turned to ash. Good night pipe friends. I hope this finds everyone doing very well,
