iN WINE Farmer Friday: Jennay Oliver, Paynter's Fruit Market
Henry Paynter arrived to Canada from England in 1919 and decided to set up shop on their prosperous acreage in 1952. He married a local girl, Sheila McKay and the couple’s family grew to six children, 13 grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren and counting. Many of the family is still involved in the various farm lands and have grown into their current thriving agri-tourism business.
“The farm now produces 50% fruit and 50% vegetables,” explains Jennay (Paynter) Oliver, the fourth generation farmer and granddaughter of Henry and Sheila Paynter. Jennay officially took over the farm and market in 2007, when she was just 23 years old. Good female genes run in this family — Grandma Sheila Paynter still lives on the property at 99 years young, a testament to good farm living.
Jennay knows this land like the back of her own hand.
“I was homeschooled, so I grew up in the market," she says.
The farm has 35 acres in production and grows an amazing array of naturally grown products ranging from peaches and plums to melons and tomatoes.
The market itself is a fun destination. With the popular u-pick in progress now, parents and children love the opportunity to pick their own fruit and peaches are in season right now. After their pick, they can grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables overlooking the beautiful orchard view and enjoy some delicious ice cream. The family has always been very community oriented and hosts school tours and other fun educational programs.
They're open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
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