The Alternative Press

WESTFIELD, NJ—A lively crowd of friends and families gathered on the lawn of the Reeve House, 314 Mountain Avenue in Westfield, on October 20 for the Westfield Historical Society’s fourth annual Apple Fest. Attendees knew it was a grand celebration, for a parade of glorious balloons led each of them right inside the gate, where Karrie Hanson was selling kale and pots of mums in colors of golden yellow and burnt orange. 

Jessica Stewart of Westfield remarked, “I need some kale. I find it lasts a bit more than mums and it always looks fresh and beautiful.” 

All the while boys and girls and their moms and dads and friends from everywhere enjoyed adorable face and pumpkin painting, tours of the Reeve House and grounds, Grandma Ginny’s antique and curiosity sale, home baked food sales with glorious pies, games for children and adults and so much more. 

Included in the program was a salute to the 100 Anniversary of the Girl Scouts of America, plus members of Westfield Boy Scout Troop 77 were there for Vikranth Eleswarapu as he completed his Eagle Scout work on a walking tour of the specimen trees at the Reeve House. There was also a one-day exhibit of Charles Addams prints to commemorate his 100th birthday  and the first annual Union County Fire Department Apple Pie Contest.

“We’re delighted to be here,” said Lee Perry, a volunteer. “We’re proud of the Westfield Historical Society.”

Members of the National Honor Society of Westfield High School volunteered to participate at the Apple Fest.

“As members of the National Honor Society of Westfield High School, we’re encouraged to donate a portion of our time to assisting others,” said Tara Sciortino.  “We believe volunteering should be a part of what people are expected to do."

Ronan and Conar Burns of Westfield were busy having their faces painted by members of Westfield High School’s National Honor Society. “This is a most enjoyable and interactive project for kids, and certainly lots of fun,” said Paula Burns, their mom. 

Meanwhile, the musical group Moonstruck was entertaining the crowd with songs by John Lennon, The Beatles and other favorites. You’d find them strolling around the grounds of the Reeve House. Members include: Michele Metallo, Dolly Power, Janene DePalo and Patti Smith.

One major attraction was the apple pie stand. Generously donated by the DAR of Westfield and the Fire Department of Union County, pies were served by Westfield Honor Society Students Christina Beck, Caitlin Lawrie and Michaela Nies.

Did you know: The first pies were called coffins or coffyns. They were completely enclosed savory meat pies.

Did you also know: Historians believe the Greeks actually originated pie pastry?

Those involved agreed that, thanks to Nancy Priest, president, Sherry Cronin, treasurer, and the entire staff of volunteers who worked tirelessly, the Westfield Historical Society’s Apple Fest was truly a memorable event.