where art & agriculture mix

These Morgan County neighbors are using a creative mix of art and agriculture to lure visitors to this southern Ohio gem

story by Pat Petzel photography by Galen Ludwick

To a farmer or any devoted gardener, a homegrown apple at its peak of ripeness is a work of art. The joy of nurturing a fruit or vegetable to its peak of beauty provides much the same satisfaction as molding clay into sculpture or paint into a portrait.

A group of neighbors in Morgan County in southeastern Ohio have blended these two passions – art and agriculture – into a business venture they hope you’ll want to visit. “The Artists and Orchardists of Hickory Ridge” is a group of neighbors who have banded together, determined to make a difference in their community.

Morgan County is one of Ohio's poorest counties, with its unemployment rate hovering around 11.4 percent – the state's third highest rate. But the county’s rugged beauty is a magnet for creative individuals who want to make their mark on the community.

"The Artists and Orchardists of Hickory Ridge” is organized as a cooperative with the purpose of providing marketing, advertising and promotional opportunities for its members. By promoting the locally produced art and farm products, the group hopes to help the local economy by supporting local artists and entrepreneurs.

The eight shops that are part of the cooperative represent 45 artists, with products ranging from rustic birdhouses made from old barns to handmade Shaker and mission style furniture made from salvaged timber. Farm products (when they’re in season) range from varieties of apples, peaches, cider, jellies, plums and cherries to hand-knitted wool items, maple syrup, sorghum and popcorn. Grass-fed beef and lamb are available year-round.

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Meet the Artists and Orchardists of Hickory Ridge

Jo-Ad Natural Foods 740-962-4928
Open Monday – Saturday

Hickerson’s Never Never Fruit Farm
740-962-2939 • Open Aug. – Nov.

Carla’s Antique Cupboard 740-962-4243

C Square Rustic Crafts 866-386-1439
Open daily

www.csquarecrafts.comhttp://www.csquarecrafts.com/

Shew’s Orchard and Vacation Cabin
740-557-3032 • Open daily Aug. – Dec.

http://www.shewsorchard.com/

Muffin's Guest House 740-962-5543

http://www.muffinsguesthouse.com/

info@muffinsguesthouse.com

Massey's Orchard and Tax Service 740-962-5055

King's Cottages Available year-round

740-962-3004

American Elm Workshop 740-557-3181 *Note: This is not a destination for visitors, but these products are available at C Square Rustic Crafts and Stockport Mill Inn.

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