In today’s day and age, it’s heartwarming to hear of long-running businesses that have withstood the test of time for 10, 25 or even 50 years. Casa de Fruta in Hollister, however, is an exceptional example—this year, the fruit stand-turned-attraction celebrates its 100th anniversary.
The family-owned operation took root around the turn of the century when four brothers from southern Italy immigrated to the United States, bought a piece of fertile land along the Pacheco Pass and planted the first orchards in 1908. The brothers eventually brought their families over from Italy, including young Clara Bisceglia, the future matriarch of the family that founded the fruit stand, then established a large cannery in San Jose. Clara grew up, married Dr. Henry George Zanger, and had six children. In 1943, after Clara inherited 20 acres of cherry trees in the Pacheco Valley, three of her sons opened a cherry stand along the Pass.
From that humble fruit stand, a small empire started growing. In addition to selling fresh, locally grown produce, Casa de Fruta now boasts award-winning wines, made-from-scratch pies, a 24-hour restaurant, a gift shop, a petting zoo, a miniature locomotive and a 14-room inn. Judging by the crowds of visitors that continue to stream in and out of this popular roadside stop, it looks like Casa de Fruta will keep going strong for a long time yet to come.
Where: 10021 Pacheco Pass Hwy., Hollister
Hours: Open daily
More info: 408/842-7282; www.casadefruta.com
