Door County, Wisconsin has a rich and storied relationship with cherries that spans over a century. The peninsula’s unique climate and geography created ideal conditions for cherry cultivation, transforming the region into one of America’s premier cherry-producing areas.
Early Beginnings
The commercial cherry industry in Door County began in the late 1800s when the first orchards were planted. The peninsula’s location between Green Bay and Lake Michigan creates a microclimate that moderates temperature extremes, protecting the delicate cherry blossoms from late spring frosts and providing ideal growing conditions.
Professor E.S. Goff of the University of Wisconsin is often credited with recognizing Door County’s potential for fruit production in the 1890s. After his recommendation, many settlers began planting cherry trees, primarily focusing on the tart Montmorency variety, which remains the predominant type grown in the region today.
Golden Age (1920s-1950s)
The cherry industry truly boomed in the first half of the 20th century. By the 1920s, Door County was known as the “Cherry Capital of the Midwest.” At its peak in the mid-1900s, Door County had approximately 10,000 acres dedicated to cherry orchards and produced up to 50 million pounds of cherries annually.
During this golden age, cherry harvesting became a significant cultural event. The short picking season created a high demand for labor, and families from across the Midwest would travel to Door County for summer work as cherry pickers. Many local families also participated, with picking becoming a multi-generational tradition.
Mechanization and Industry Changes
The 1960s brought significant changes to the industry with the introduction of mechanical cherry harvesters. These machines revolutionized the harvesting process, reducing the need for manual labor and transforming the cultural character of the cherry harvest.
Around the same time, competition from other regions (particularly Michigan) and countries began to impact Door County’s cherry industry. Many smaller orchards couldn’t afford the new machinery or compete with larger operations, leading to consolidation in the industry and a reduction in total acreage.
Tourism and Diversification
As commercial production faced challenges, Door County’s cherry industry began to evolve. Many growers recognized the tourism potential of their orchards and diversified their businesses. The region’s natural beauty combined with its cherry heritage created a powerful draw for visitors.
Today, Door County’s cherry industry is largely focused on value-added products and agritourism. Visitors can still find pick-your-own orchards, but they can also purchase cherry pies, jams, wines, and other specialty products. The annual Cherry Festival celebrates this heritage and continues to attract thousands of visitors.
Modern Era
While production volumes are lower than the industry’s peak, cherries remain integral to Door County’s identity and economy. The county now has approximately 2,500 acres of cherry orchards producing 8-12 million pounds annually. Most of these are still tart Montmorency cherries, though some sweet varieties are also grown.
The region’s cherry growers have adapted to changing markets by focusing on quality over quantity, developing specialty products, and embracing sustainable growing practices. Many orchards are now operated by fourth or fifth-generation families, maintaining Door County’s long tradition of cherry cultivation while adapting to modern challenges and opportunities.
Through all these changes, the cherry remains an iconic symbol of Door County, celebrated in local cuisine, art, and culture.
