Heyser Farms

The Heyser Family's farming legacy began in 1740 with William Heyser I, a merchant and coppersmith in Hagerstown, Maryland. Over generations, the family expanded their farming operations, with notable achievements such as Captain George Frederick Heyser's award-winning grape wine in 1869. By the 1940s, David Artz Heyser was operating a roadside market in White Oak, Maryland. In 1946, the family rented property in Colesville, Maryland, and planted their first fruit trees, establishing Heyser Farms. Carlton Ellsworth Heyser Sr. modernized the farm in the 1970s, and his son, Carlton Jr. (Mike), continued the tradition, planting new orchards and adapting to changes in the local infrastructure.

Heyser Farms emphasizes direct-to-consumer marketing of their produce, a practice initiated by David Artz Heyser. The farm has evolved with agricultural advancements, transitioning from standard apple trees to semi-dwarf and dwarf varieties. They utilize greenhouses to extend their growing season and maintain a chicken coop for fresh free-range eggs. The farm's cider press is a key feature, allowing them to produce their own apple cider. Cold storage facilities help preserve the quality of their fruits and vegetables.

Heyser Farms offers educational and entertaining tours for schools and groups in the fall, along with various special events throughout the year. The farm's market includes a bakery and a winery, enhancing the visitor experience. The Heyser Mansion, built by John Henry Heyser, still stands today in Hagerstown's City Park, serving as a historical landmark of the family's long-standing agricultural heritage.