In Western New York, fall brings a rich harvest of apples and other crops. Throughout its history, Niagara County's farms have produced a cornucopia of fruits and vegetables.
Agricultural past and present will be explored with local farmer Karen Sherwood at "Farms and Apple Orchards in Niagara County," the Niagara County History Center's next "Family Night."
The event will run from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 215 Niagara St., Lockport.
Sherwood will share how agriculture has changed in Niagara County over the past 200 years, from hand planting to horse-drawn plows to modern equipment.
Guests will hear the history of apple orchards in the county, from colonial times to the present, from Ann Marie Linnabery, assistant director of the History Center.
Following this program, organizers will share hands-on activities that include matching a seed to the crop it produces, arranging farm activity photos in the correct order (from planting to harvest), taste-testing locally grown apples, and making an apple decoration to hang in a window.
Admission to "Family Night" is free. A pizza and beverage supper will be available for a nominal donation from 5:30-6 p.m., followed by the program.
Reservations are necessary. Contact the History Center at 716-434-7433 to reserve a spot, or for additional information.