Every year, folks from all over the tri-state area make the trek to Linvilla Orchards to enjoy what those of us who live locally are lucky enough to have right here in our backyard. From hayrides to picking your own fruits and vegetables to enjoying Pumpkinland and Christmas Around the Farm, there are plenty of ways to make memories on this 350-acre farm in Middletown.
Purchased in 1914 by Arthur Linvill and his mother Lydia, Linvilla was originally a dairy farm with its signature 80’ tall Octagonal Barn. Back then, Arthur used a horse and buggy to distribute his fresh milk and cream to nearby Media and Swarthmore. Although he had studied electrical engineering at Drexel University, he was more interested in planting apple trees and selling produce. At first, customers came to the front porch of his farmhouse to purchase his fruits and vegetables. But as automobiles became more abundant, and more folks started coming to the farm, he began selling it out of the Octagonal Barn.
The farm became the family business. Arthur and his sons Paul, Larry and Donald all worked on the property. Paul Linvill worked in partnership with his brothers and later with his wife Peg and their four children, Susan, Steven, Nancy and Jean. In 1971, Peg created a Harvest display that won first place in the Philadelphia Horticultural Society’s Harvest Show. That display was brought back to the farm and marked the beginning of Pumpkinland, a family-oriented entertainment venue with a harvest theme. Peg also ran the gift shop and taught many classes where she shared her creativity in making flower arrangements and wreaths.
Growing up, all four Linvill children worked in various areas of the farm. Then, in the late 1980s, they scattered across the country to study at different universities. During that time, Paul and his brother Larry were contemplating retirement, so each of the siblings committed to returning home to the farm.
After completing their college degrees, all four of Paul’s children returned to work at Linvilla, and as operators and owners, they have kept it thriving. “We all have different interests and educational backgrounds,” Jean said. “We utilize each other’s strengths, and we get along really well!” They’re frequently “all hands on deck” in terms of family participation, which also includes the fifth generation of Linvills. “We are enjoying working with the next generation,” explained Jean.
Management also extends beyond the family. “We are blessed to have an amazing, dedicated staff and management team who are like family,” added Jean. “Our General Manager Wayne Matsinger and our Farm Manager Norm Shultz have been with us for 29 years.”
Every season brings plenty of family-friendly events and festivals. In the fall, Pumpkinland takes center stage at Linvilla Orchards. In the warmer months, Ship Bottom Brewery Beer Garden serves up brews using products grown right on the farm, the two swim clubs on the farm open, and peaches corn and tomatoes are abundant.
At Christmastime, Linvilla Orchards transforms into a festive wonderland for Christmas Around the Farm. During the holiday season, the Garden Center becomes a spectacular Winter Wonderland, featuring Santa and his elves, handmade wreaths, greens and holly and a sea of poinsettias. Visitors can shop an enormous selection of timeless holiday decorations, children’s toys and collectibles you won’t find anywhere else! Be sure to come hungry, too, because they offer a variety of winter food options, including Wood-Fired Pizza, Holly Jolly Doughnuts and more.
New this winter is Linvilla’s first-ever winter makers market! Starting November 30th, vendors will set up in the Legacy Tree Garden from 10am–4pm each Saturday and Sunday, with some additional Fridays, along with food and beverage offerings.
Make Christmas Around the Farm a fun family holiday tradition by cutting your own Christmas Tree! Take your whole family on a hayride to their Christmas tree fields to select your tree. The majority are 5′ to 7′ Douglas Fir. Once you cut your own tree down (Linvilla will supply the saw), they will haul it back for you, shake it, rope it up and even tie it to your car. Then, after your hayride back from the fields, enjoy a campfire where you can roast marshmallows.
The folks at Linvilla Orchards encourage you to call 610-876-7116 or visit their online store starting December 1st to order holiday pies, cakes, breads and fresh turkeys. Looking for that special holiday gift? Browse their holiday gift basket selections and other gourmet specialties in the online store.
From delicious home-baked treats, including their famous pies and apple cider donuts, to fresh fruits and vegetables, it’s easy to see why the farm market has earned a well-deserved reputation. And as you wander the farm, snacking on Linvilla’s delicious goodies, you’re likely to see at least one of the Linvills there.
For the past 100 years, through dedication to their community, education, agriculture and entertainment, the Linvills have helped generations of families create memories that last a lifetime. Newtown Edgmont Friends & Neighbors thanks the Linvill family for giving visitors a reason to visit season after season! For more information, visit Linvilla.com.