Sturgeon Bay, Wis. (October 23, 2026) – From blossoming cherry trees to generations of family-owned orchards, fruit growing has played an important role in shaping Door County’s history, economy, and identity. The Door County Historical Society (DCHS) will explore this rich agricultural heritage during its final Dine & Discover program on Monday, November 23, 2026, featuring Joe Taylor, Manager of the Door County Museum & Archives.
The November presentation will examine how cherry and apple orchards took root on the Door Peninsula and grew into one of the region’s most recognizable industries. Taylor will explore the unique combination of geology, climate, immigration, and tourism that helped establish Door County as a fruit-growing destination.
The presentation will feature artifacts from the Door County Museum collection, along with recently digitized vintage audio and video recordings featuring individuals who played a direct role in Door County’s fruit-growing history. These firsthand accounts will offer a fascinating glimpse into the people, traditions, and experiences behind an industry that continues to influence the peninsula today.
Taylor brings extensive experience in historical interpretation and exhibit development. He spent much of his career as co-founder of Taylor Studios, an exhibit design and fabrication company. In 2002, he shifted gears to establish Sleepy Creek Vineyards, a winery, vineyard, and event venue in Central Illinois. After selling the winery in 2016, Taylor and his wife, Dawn, moved to Door County with plans to retire. Instead, he found a new opportunity to share his passion for history as Manager of the Door County Museum & Archives.
The evening will also include the Door County Historical Society’s Annual Business Meeting, providing members an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s accomplishments during its Centennial year and vote for members of the Board of Directors. All DCHS members are encouraged to attend to help ensure a quorum.
The event will take place at Prince of Peace Church, 1756 Michigan Street in Sturgeon Bay. Doors to the Oasis Center will open at 5:15 p.m., with the Annual Business Meeting beginning promptly at 5:30 p.m.
Dinner, catered by Scaturo’s, will be served at 6:00 p.m. The buffet menu includes lemon pepper chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, Florentine stuffed shells, garden salad, cookies, brownies, coffee, and water. Taylor’s presentation will follow dinner.
Registration is $40 per person or $35 for DCHS members. Reservations are required one week before the event and may be made online at www.doorcountyhistoricalsociety.org, by mail, or at the DCHS office. Members, guests, and the general public are welcome.
As the Door County Historical Society concludes its 2026 Dine & Discover series, the program offers one more opportunity to celebrate the organization’s 100th anniversary and its century-long commitment to preserving and sharing Door County’s heritage.
The DCHS Program Committee is already planning programs for 2027 and welcomes suggestions for future speakers, historical topics, and venues. Ideas may be emailed to gebauer@charter.net with “Program Suggestions” in the subject line.
For more information or to register, visit www.doorcountyhistoricalsociety.org or call (920) 421-2332.
ALL CONTENT © 2026 BY DOOR GUIDE PUBLISHING
