1752 Mountain View Orchard Road, Corvallis, Mt 59828
Our History
Family owned and operated since 1910, we are celebrating over 100 years and 3 generations of growing apples in the Bitterroot Valley.
This Bitterroot valley proved to be what many call a “Banana Belt” for its four-season climate with mild summers and moderate winters. The winter months are more mild compared to other areas in Montana and therefore more suitable for the production of various agriculture commodities. The fertile soil and relatively gentle climate allow for a diverse range of crops to flourish, from hearty root vegetables to delicate fruits. Orchards filled with apple, cherry, and pear trees dot the landscape, their blossoms heralding the arrival of spring and promising bountiful harvests.
As autumn rolls in, the valley is painted in hues of red, orange, and yellow. The crisp air carries the scent of ripe apples and fallen leaves, creating a picturesque setting for harvest festivals and community gatherings. It’s a time of celebration and gratitude, as the community comes together to enjoy the fruits of their labor.
The Bitterroot Valley’s unique climate and stunning natural beauty make it a true gem in Montana, a place where the land and its people thrive in harmony through all four seasons.
The first known Montana apple orchard was planted near Stevensville in the Bitterroot Valley in the 1840’s by Fathers Ravalli and DeSmet.
The first commercial apple orchard production in Stevensville, MT.
During the beginning of the “apple boom” in this Bitterroot Valley began, Charles J. Swanson, a Swedish immigrant began the ranch in 1909 with his wife, Emma Lynde.
– Charles found the location years prior to relocating to Montana when he was vacationing in the Bitterroot Valley and came across the hillside where the orchard still stands today. Charles selected this particular location because of the specific slope of the hill- making it ideal for apple growing conditions and reducing the risk of frost.
– Charles had made a substantial sacrifice to leave everything he knew in Sweden to begin his efforts as an apple farmer in Montana by purchasing his first piece of ground (20 acres for $20/acre) where the farm is located today.
– Charles had to diversify agricultural commodities to support the cash requirements associated with the development of the tree to get the trees to their production stage (5-6 years from planting date). Charles also worked on the flume crew for the Bitterroot Valley Irrigation Company’s irrigation ditch project supplying water throughout the valley for its growing/expanding agricultural production needs. While working here he made $2/day overseeing 30-40 men, and his cost to hire someone on the farm was $1 so his savings was used to support expanding the orchard over the years.
– Throughout the Swanson orchard’s history, the orchard has won several national awards for its quality apples, and overall dedication to supporting its community & customers spanning over a century.