Piper Orchard

Piper Orchard
A century-old Wealthy apple tree in Piper Orchard, bent and hollow but still bearing fruit in 2013.
Map
TypeOrchard
LocationSeattle, Washington
Coordinates47°42′35″N 122°22′00″W / 47.70972°N 122.36667°W / 47.70972; -122.36667
Area216 acres (0.87 km2)
Created1890s
Operated bySeattle Parks and Recreation

Piper Orchard, the oldest orchard in Seattle, is located in Carkeek Park and features primarily heirloom apple trees. It was established in the late 19th century by A. W. Piper, a local confectioner and member of the Seattle City Council, following the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. The orchard was a key part of the Piper family's homestead, which was maintained into the early 20th century. After being largely forgotten, the orchard was rediscovered in the 1980s, leading to restoration efforts. Today, the orchard is maintained by volunteers and Seattle Parks staff and is the site of community events, including an annual Festival of Fruit.