October Memories

Now that October has arrived, many Pearl River residents have memories of patronizing the farms along Chestnut Ridge Road. The Van Riper, Tice, and DiPiero families had large acreage holdings in that area where the peach and apple orchards stretched as far as the eye could see in all directions. These farming families would line chestnut ridge road with pumpkins to be purchased by people who would enjoy a cool crisp autumn day in the country. The farms would also have areas set up with hay bales and corn shocks, sell candy, apple cider and cider infused doughnuts all homemade. All of this occurred west of town in New Jersey. In Nauraushaun, the VanHouten farm also had the pumpkin, bale and corn shock display ruled over Bertha Broomworthy, a witch  flying over the entire tableau. The halloween season was a boon to these farms where people came from all over the tri state area. Many children would have their children take a picture with Bertha, creating wonderful childhood memories for all.