The Appleland Story
Our Family. Our Farm. Our Legacy.
For nearly 80 years, Appleland has been more than an apple orchard, It’s a place to work together, a place to grow, and a place where generations of memories are made.
NEARLY 80 YEARS OF GROWING, CHANGING, AND CARRYING ON
From a 60-acre orchard planted in 1946 to the family farm it is today, Appleland’s story is one of family, hard work, and a deep connection to the land.
1946
The Orchard Begins
George Schroeder planted the original 70-acre orchard in Belgium, Wisconsin. Legally blind, he kept detailed records of every tree on index cards.
1963
The Appleland Name
Stuart Carlson purchased the orchard and gave it the name Appleland. A name that has remained with us ever since.
1966
The Espantman Family
George Kaye Espantman purchased Appleland. Their first crop was sold in 1967. The orchard grew from 70 to more than 130 acres.
1978 & BEYOND
Expansion & Evolution
New orchards, the move to Highway 57, a modern packing facility, and more. Appleland continued to grow while staying true to its family roots.
TODAY & TOMORROW
The Next Generation
Nick, Jacob & Jeremy Bares – the fourth generation – carry Appleland forward while building a future that blends tradition, innovation, and family.
OUR STORY CONTINUES
Every chapter has shaped the Appleland you know and love today.
BEHIND THE APPLES
A Working Farm
Appleland is first and foremost a working orchard and packing operation. We grow, harvest, pack, and ship high-quality apples to markets across the country. It’s a business build on hard work, careful farming, and pride in every box.
THE FARM MARKET
From Sales Room to Today
Kaye started by selling apples and product form a small sales room on the farm. What began as a simple way to share our harvest has grown in to the Farm Market you see today – filled with fresh apples, local goodies, and old-fashioned fun.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
Our Philosophy
We believe in family, faith, hard work and treating people right. We believe in caring for the land, doing the job the right way, and never forgetting where we came from. These beliefs guide every decision we make.
APPLELAND TODAY
Rooted in the Past, Growing the Future
Today, Appleland is run by brothers Nick, Jacob, and Jeremy Bares, continuing the legacy of the generations before them. We remain committed to growing excellent apples, welcoming our community, and making memories that will last for generations to come.
Come Be a Part of Our Story
From our family to yours, thank you for being a part of the Appleland legacy. We can’t wait to welcome you to the orchard and Farm Market.