Community Program: The History of Apples, Cider, & Applejack in New Jersey

September 10, 2025| Community, Education, Events

By: Patrick Krudop

An a-peeling evening awaits! Join us for a fascinating evening as we explore New Jersey’s rich history of apples, cider, and applejack. Learn how apples became a cornerstone of life across the Garden State for more than three hundred years and discover why New Jersey once produced more apples than any other state. The presentation will highlight the cultivation and varieties of apples grown here, the traditional process of making cider and applejack, and stories from some of the hundreds of historic cidermaking sites that once dotted our state. Along the way, you’ll enjoy historical photos and insights that bring this unique agricultural heritage to life.

Program Details

• Thursday, October 16 at 7 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm)
• Lake Hopatcong Foundation, 125 Landing Road, Landing, NJ
• FREE - donations are appreciated
• Registration is required (form below)

Program Presenter

James Malchow is the Director of the Ralston Cider Mill Museum in Mendham, New Jersey, a fully operational historic cider mill that preserves and shares the state’s hard cider and applejack legacy. The museum offers visitors a rare glimpse into New Jersey’s agricultural and industrial past, showcasing the craftsmanship and traditions that shaped local life for centuries. Through his work, James brings to life the stories behind one of New Jersey’s oldest and most enduring traditions, ensuring this important piece of our heritage is remembered and celebrated.

This program has concluded, and registration is now closed.