Sunday Talk: “Fruitleggers and BC’s Black Market in Orchard Fruit, 1940s-1970s”
August 3 @ 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm PDT
In the mid-20th century, the Okanagan and Similkameen valleys were home to more than just apples and apricots—they were also the backdrop for an underground trade in orchard fruit that defied government regulation. In this captivating presentation, historians Ben Bradley and Jan Hadlaw explore the little-known world of BC’s fruit black market, where rebellious growers, roadside vendors, and covert haulers—dubbed “fruitleggers”—sidestepped the BC Fruit Board’s strict marketing system to sell their produce on their own terms.
Drawing on firsthand interviews and deep archival research, Ben and Jan trace the rise and fall of this underground economy, revealing a side of BC’s agricultural history that’s equal parts economic rebellion, community friction, and entrepreneurial spirit. From fruit police and roadside crackdowns to the quiet resistance of growers working outside the system, this talk brings to light a compelling and often-overlooked chapter of local history.
🗓️ Date: Sunday, Aug 3, 2025
🕜 Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
🎟️ Admission: Included with daily site admission OR free with a 2025 Season Pass.
About the Sunday Speaker Series:
Each Sunday from May through October, we welcome a new guest presenter into our Apple House to share fascinating stories and insights into the natural, cultural, and historical landscape of our region. Topics range widely—from Indigenous history and pioneer technologies to Victorian gardening, food traditions, conservation efforts, and beyond. Presentations are informal, engaging, and typically run about 45–60 minutes.
We look forward to welcoming you!
