OUR STORY
Making the best of it.
After 200 years of farming in Milton New York, we had an idea of how to minimize waste, and diversify our agricultural offerings. Fruit that had been back and forth to market had been damaged by the heat and handling, making it no longer able to be sold as quality fresh fruit. Some fruit grew too small, some damaged by weather. All of these handpicked fruits that were carefully placed into bins and boxes, would now have to go straight to the compost pile. It turns out, that once fruit is crushed and squeezed, it suddenly didn't matter how nice it once looked. This is exactly what we did, taking our not-so-pretty fruit, and turning it into cider. Now, we are able to turn what would have been waste, into a delicious product that people can enjoy while visiting our farm in the form of hand crafted cider.
Meet the farmers
Maddie
Head Cider Maker/Brewery Manager
Meet Maddie Stewart, our incredible manager and cider maker! With a degree in Agricultural Business Management, and hands-on winemaking experience from her internship, Maddie is a true force in the industry. Shortly after graduation, she jumped in to help the family turn their brewery dream into reality. Today, she proudly leads as the general manager, and is the creative mastermind behind our delicious ciders!
Chip and Jim
Co-owners/Farmers
Chip Kent, along with his brother Jim, is the dynamic co-owner and operator of the incredible Locust Grove Fruit Farm and Locust Grove Brewing Company in Milton, New York! Chip's passionate commitment to sustainable farming and vibrant community involvement have been a game-changer for both the farm and brewery. His innovative vision keeps Locust Grove thriving as a beloved hotspot in the stunning Hudson Valley!
Sawyer
Farmer/Family
Sawyer Kent is a key component to Locust Grove, working alongside his father Chip Kent, and the rest of their family to manage the farm's operations! With active role in promoting local agriculture, Sawyer has jumped into exciting initiatives. One highlight was joining his father in a fantastic feature by the New York State Farm Bureau, showcasing their amazing contributions to farming in the beautiful Hudson Valley.
1820
The original O.P. Kent and Sons Farm is established. Produce was grown on the farm, and shipped on the Hudson River to New York City.
1818
Mercy Sands (daughter of shipbuilder Benjamin Sands) has a son; Oliver P. Kent, with Jonathan Kent.
1846
Charles P. Kent is born, of Oliver P. Kent and his wife Ellen.
1884
Oliver P. Kent is born, of Charles Kent and Helen P. Kent.
Oliver P. Kent married Ida May Dubois.
Kent Family and Farm Timeline
1921
Oliver P. Kent is born.
1960
Chip Kent is born.
1929
James Kent was born.
1967
James Kent is born.
Hellen P. Kent, Oliver P. Kent, and Charles Kent
James Kent, and Helen P. Kent at Market