In their wildest dreams, colonial farmer John Lyman and his wife, Hope, could not have envisioned the complex and diverse enterprise that would evolve from their purchase in 1741 of a 37-acre parcel of land in what is now Middlefield. Now covering more than 1,100 acres of scenic farmland, Lyman Orchards is one of the most popular family attractions in New England. Through a history spanning ten generations, the Lyman family heritage was founded upon a commitment to preserve their land for future generations, using a combination of determination, innovation, and adaptation – attributes that hold true today.

Even after 275 years, Lyman Orchards continues to evolve while maintaining its steadfast commitment to preserving the land for future generations. Today, members of the 8th and 9th generations of the family are directly involved in the business. Like their ancestors before them, preservation of the land remains central to their heritage, and the family continues to be innovative in its ways of upholding their traditions.