The Story of the Long Pie Pumpkin

Also known as Nantucket Pie Pumpkin. Said to have migrated in 1832 from the Isle of St. George in the Azores to Nantucket on a whaling ship, whence it was picked up by various seedsmen and came north to Maine. Burpee offered it in 1888 as St. George. It was and remains highly esteemed as the best pumpkin for Yankee pumpkin pies. It was so widespread a couple of generations ago that many people who grew up on Maine farms never saw a round pumpkin.

Widely grown in Androscoggin County 60 years ago (an old-timer remembers them stacked up on porches like firewood), it was nearly forgotten and narrowly saved from extinction.

LeRoy Souther, a Livermore Falls, ME, native who had been maintaining it for more than 30 years, sometime in the late 1980's brought seeds to cucurbit aficionado John Navazio at his Common Ground Fair squash booth. Navazio took them with him to Garden City Seeds in Montana where he re-introduced them to commerce. 3–5 lb. fruits look like overgrown zucchinis to the uninitiated, but the telltale sign is an orange spot where the otherwise all-green elongated fruit rested on the ground. In storage, the whole fruit first blushes, then glows bright orange, signaling that its delicious flesh is ready to be turned into incomparable pies. One of the best for continued ripening after picking, Long Pie stored at 10C degrees keeps all winter.

What makes it a "Pie Pumpkin"? Pie pumpkins are smaller, sweeter, less grainy textured pumpkins than the jack-o-lantern types. The Long Pie pumpkin is a dark zucchini-green ripening to pumpkin orange. It is one of the very best for pies—if we had to choose only one pie pumpkin, this would probably be it. The fruits are almost a perfect cylinder, slightly rounded at top and bottom. Do not hesitate to pick this even if it is still dark green—the idea is that it will orange up in storage, letting you know when it is at its best for making a fantastic pie. Long Pie has virtually string-less, smooth and brilliant orange meat.

A big part of what we are doing at Everson Ranch is trying to find what works well. The garden was started as part of our soil restoration projects in 2016. One crop that has proven to grow really well are the pumpkins! Originally, our pumpkins were grown for stock feed and now are grown both for feed and pumpkin goodies. We have tried a few varieties and all have grown successfully! This past summer we were looking to grow a pumpkin that would be best for baking and storage. Last year we were able to process many of the pumpkins we grew to use during the winter months for baking. What a great way to enjoy the garden produce in the winter months! Although we were having good success with the baked goods, it was challenging because the pumpkins we were working with tended to have too much moisture in them to work for high altitude baking. Through a little research, Ranch Manager Mike, came across this super unique pumpkin that was said to be the best for baking you could grow. The long pie pumpkin turned out to be a hit! This variety of winter squash has the most sweet/savory depth of flavor and fine texture that truly makes for some extraordinary pies We decided to try them, not only for the great baking qualities it promised but also for the shorter growing season it requires which is great for folks like us who garden on the edge. The other great thing we are now discovering to be true is the storage ability it has and the long shape is great for stacking. The pumpkins were harvested green with just spots of orange in September and now in January they are completely orange and at the peak flavor development.

It has been a snowy winter with temperatures colder than the mild weather we enjoyed in January of 2018. Snow capped peaks are a positive indicator for more water this summer. However, the volume of water we have coming from the springs is about a third less than average and much lower than 2018. This results in less electricity from the hydroelectric generator, which means less electrically heated water for the heated pools. We are still able to heat the sauna to normal levels and other electrical use has not been compromised much. However, the heated pools are not as hot as they were last year.

Use electricity conservatively to maximize what is available for the heated pools. Be prepared for lower water temperatures in the heated pools. With snow cover, air temperatures, especially at night, are cold so bring appropriate clothing. Interestingly, the top pools are holding higher than usual temperatures but the path can be slippery. Wear shoes or boots with good traction and use anti-slip devices to be more sure footed.

This winter has brought with it some colder temperatures and increased snowfall, but we're still enjoying an abundance of big dramatic skies with beautiful sunsets and warm sunshine. This year the peaceful land at Orient Land Trust, along with the San Luis Valley's dramatic peaks are cloaked in a beautiful covering of pristine snow.

Situated near the Pavilion, just a short walk from the apple tree pools, is the Bodywork Cabin (used for food storage in summertime), which becomes a warm and nurturing space where guests can receive a range of therapeutic treatments during the winter months.

Many guests come to OLT to take time away from their busy day to day lives. The natural pools and wilderness setting here present an opportunity for deep relaxation, unwinding and quiet reflection. Some guests also choose to take this opportunity further, with massage therapies.

Our bodywork sessions can help deepen your experience at OLT. The hot springs can prepare the body and mind for massage, then continue to support the work of the treatment afterwards. All in all, the healing waters combined with bodywork can create a wonderful restorative, resting place for body, mind and spirit. Whether you are wanting help with aches and pains following a long road trip or sports activities, or needing support to release built up stress so you can relax and unwind more easily....we are here to help with over 100 years combined experience.

With 5 therapists we have a full range of therapies including Swedish Massage, Reflexology, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone/River Rock, Acupressure and Shiatsu, Neuromuscular Therapy, Reiki, facial/scalp massage, aromatherapy and Watsu. We carry the appropriate licensing and insurance for professional practice in Colorado and live in Saguache County.

Visit our Website anytime: https://www.olt.org/vvhs/massage

Mary Mahoney, a long time guest and volunteer at OLT, passed away on January 29th, 2019 from breast cancer. Mary volunteered at the Everson Ranch in the garden and with the goats, at Valley View Hot Springs doing trail repair and moss removal from the creeks. Mary was a wonderful person with a great big smile and kind word for everyone she met. She had many friends here and touched everyone's heart with her positive attitude and love for Valley View; the land, the water, the people. We will miss you Mary, you will remain forever in our hearts. For information concerning Mary's memorial service, please go to the following link:

https://memorials.aspenmortuaries.com/margaret-mahoney/3707944/service-details.php

The Orient Land Trust protects and shares 2,200 acres of open space located 4-1/2 miles south of Villa Grove, Colorado and 7 miles east of the junction of U.S. Highway 285 and Colorado Highway 17 on Saguache County Road GG (a gravel road). This high-mountain, rural oasis is far removed from gas stations, grocery, and other services. OLT stocks a small selection of local foods and snacks. It is a 175 mile drive from Denver (over 3-1/2 hours), 146 miles from Colorado Springs (over 3 hours), 198 miles from Santa Fe (over 3-1/2 hours) and 260 miles from Albuquerque (4-1/2 hours). The closest towns with services are shown on the maps below.

The Orient Mine is located approximately 2 miles north of the the Welcome Center and Valley View Hot Springs. Free guided tours hike there from the Welcome Center a couple hours or so before dusk.  Bat outflight times vary so call the Welcome Center with correct times for that day so you arrive with plenty of time to make the hike.

Orient Mine and Bat Caves at the Orient Land Trust
via OLT Welcome Center
64393 County Road GG
Moffat, CO 81143-9723
719-256-4315

Directions

Nearest Towns, Facilities, and Attractions

View Larger Map

The Orient Land Trust protects and shares 2,200 acres of open space located 4-1/2 miles south of Villa Grove, Colorado and 7 miles east of the junction of U.S. Highway 285 and Colorado Highway 17 on Saguache County Road GG (a gravel road). This high-mountain, rural oasis is far removed from gas stations, grocery, and other services. OLT stocks a small selection of local foods and snacks. It is a 175 mile drive from Denver (over 3-1/2 hours), 146 miles from Colorado Springs (over 3 hours), 198 miles from Santa Fe (over 3-1/2 hours) and 260 miles from Albuquerque (4-1/2 hours). The closest towns with services are shown on the maps below.

Please check in at Welcome Center before visiting the Everson Ranch and Reservoir. Be careful to close all cattle gates behind you. Do not enter the historic structures without a guide.

Everson Ranch at the Orient Land Trust
29398 County Road 61
Moffat, CO 81143
719-256-4315

Directions

Nearest Towns, Facilities, and Attractions

View Larger Map

The Orient Land Trust protects and shares 2,200 acres of open space located 4-1/2 miles south of Villa Grove, Colorado and 7 miles east of the junction of U.S. Highway 285 and Colorado Highway 17 on Saguache County Road GG (a gravel road). This high-mountain, rural oasis is far removed from gas stations, grocery, and other services. OLT stocks a small selection of local foods and snacks. It is a 175 mile drive from Denver (over 3-1/2 hours), 146 miles from Colorado Springs (over 3 hours), 198 miles from Santa Fe (over 3-1/2 hours) and 260 miles from Albuquerque (4-1/2 hours). The closest towns with services are shown on the maps below.

The gate closes at 10:00pm each night after which no one is allowed entry. Reservations are highly recommended without which admission cannot be guaranteed. Please plan accordingly. We sincerely regret having to turn visitors away. If delayed, please call as soon as possible to coordinate other arrangements. We will assist however we can.

Valley View Hot Springs at the Orient Land Trust
64393 County Road GG
Moffat, CO 81143-9723
719-256-4315

Directions

Nearest Towns, Facilities, and Attractions

View Larger Map

The Orient Land Trust protects and shares 2,200 acres of open space located 4-1/2 miles south of Villa Grove, Colorado and 7 miles east of the junction of U.S. Highway 285 and Colorado Highway 17 on Saguache County Road GG (a gravel road). This high-mountain, rural oasis is far removed from gas stations, grocery, and other services. OLT stocks a small selection of local foods and snacks. It is a 175 mile drive from Denver (over 3-1/2 hours), 146 miles from Colorado Springs (over 3 hours), 198 miles from Santa Fe (over 3-1/2 hours) and 260 miles from Albuquerque (4-1/2 hours). The closest towns with services are shown on the maps below.

Everson Ranch

Valley View Hot Springs

Orient Mine and Bat Cave

Orient Land Trust
Home of Valley View Hot Springs, Orient Mine, and Everson Ranch
64393 County Road GG
Moffat, CO 81143-9723
719-256-4315

Directions

Nearest Towns, Facilities, and Attractions

View Larger Map

Our good friend and neighbor, Rick Williams died in mid December. He worked for OLT for more than ten years. Many of you will remember his big smile and friendly welcome. His daughter, Jamie, sent the following remembrance:

Richard Wayne Williams Senior - July 15, 1959 to December 13, 2018

Rick, Ricky, Ricky Racoon, Rudy, Papaw, Shrek, Papa Bear, Brother, Dad passed peacefully in Denver, CO at the age of 59.

Born in Hot Springs, Arkansas on July 15, 1959 to Priscilla Rae and Stanley Williams and raised by his mother and stepfather, Carl Rae. Ricky grew up alongside seven siblings Eddie, Cindy, Bart, David, Greg, Pam and Matt.

He was a loving husband and companion to Cherrye for 29 years with whom he helped raise their three children. As a father he was wonderfully devoted to his three children Jamie, Brandie and Richie.

Papaw was a loving grandfather to his six grandchildren Declan, Talyn, Jaelyne, Peyton, Shane and Jordy.

Ricky was a driven and hard-working man with numerous talents and trades. When his family was young and living in Mt. Ida, Arkansas he held many titles including electrician at Summitts, a janitor at a local shoe factory and a night time security guard at Mountain Harbor. He eventually quit his job as a security guard and started his own cleaning business. His children will never forget the late nights helping him with his jobs which instilled his hard-working mentality into each of them.

In 2001 he fulfilled one of his dreams of living on a ranch in Colorado. He packed up his home in Arkansas and moved to Moffat, CO where he raised his family and continued creating new friendships. He worked for the Orient Land Trust as a maintenance worker and went to school to be a horse farrier which later became his full-time job.

Rick enjoyed coaching his son Richie in football and basketball through all his years of school and continued coaching many years after his children were grown. You could always count on him to be there and support all of his kids' endeavors from Jamie's basketball games to Brandie's football games. He had a passion for coaching and teaching where he touched many hearts.

Papaw was most proud of his grandchildren and they could always count on him to teach them the good from the bad. The kids always thought they were in another world when they were with their Papaw. He afforded them the freedom to explore wherever their hearts desired while still teaching them valuable lessons along the way.

Rick always had a smile on his face no matter what the situation was. He was always forgiving and never judgmental. Always supportive and known for making people laugh. He was always talking to people and making friends wherever he went, he was a man of many "best friends."
Whether it was riding his horses or his Harley he would always have a story to tell about his journey. He will be missed by many, but his spirit and passion will live on through the teaching and coaching he provided to his children, grandchildren, and all others that had the opportunity to learn from him.

Mamaw said it best, you do have the best "home" out of any of us. Fly high and go wherever the road takes you because there are no limits where you are now.

Winter is a beautiful time to visit Valley View Hot Springs. There is nothing like soaking in hot water while the snow is gently falling! We are located at 8,700 feet to 9,100 feet in elevation with great differences in our daily high and low temperatures. Knowing what to expect and a little planning during winter time will make your visit much more enjoyable and safer.

We have eleven pools and ponds spread out over a quarter of a mile with a 400 foot elevation gain. The ponds are connected by foot trails. Expect uneven ground which may be snow packed and icy. Many guests use hiking poles to climb to the top ponds when trails are slick. The six natural ponds have temperatures ranging from 92 degrees to 101. We have a large swimming pool that ranges between 86 and 90 degrees. The Apple Tree Pools are two man made pools where we use our EXTRA hydro electricity to raise the water temperature which ranges from the mid 90's to 106 degrees. The temperature can vary greatly depending on electrical production and use. We cannot guarantee those higher temperatures anytime as the temperature depends on many variables. Winter months, when the temperatures are colder, the pools will likely be less hot.

Day visitors are encouraged to come early while the sun is shining so you can enjoy the natural ponds. Air temperatures drop when the sun sets, so the Apple Tree Pools and Sauna may see more soakers.

Sunset House and Spruce Lodge have in-floor geothermal heat and are usually nice and toasty. The five cabins also have in floor geothermal heat and one small electric wall heater. Keep in mind that if the cabins are warm, leave that electric heater off! Never turn on the electric heater and then open doors and windows to cool down the cabin. Oak house has new geothermal baseboard heat in the living room to help with electrical usage. There are electric heaters in rooms and the living room as well. Use electric heaters as needed and never open the windows to cool down the temperatures while the heaters are on. The more electricity we conserve, the more EXTRA electricity we have to heat the Apple Tree Pools!

Winter camping can be wonderful if you have the right equipment. Our nighttime temperatures often get well below zero, so a four season (-20 degrees) sleeping bag and all season tent are more comfortable. If you are tent camping, you park in the parking lot and hike into a tent sites. We do not maintain our tent sites over the winter, so be prepared to shovel your way in and prepare the site. We do not charge for the tent sites during winter months. If you are vehicle camping, we have limited access during the winter and do not plow the upper RV loop. When snowy, sites I though P are not available. Sites A through H, plus R, S, T, V & W are available with eight of those sites having 20 amp electrical service. You may not run your vehicle for heat or use a generator as it puts emissions into the air and disturbs the peace. The silence of nature is one of our assets and no one wants to hear engines running all night, so be prepared with warm bedding! If you do get cold, keep in mind that the Welcome Center guest area is open all night so you can warm up with a hot cup of cocoa or tea. Also the sauna is a great place for campers to warm up before climbing into their sleeping bags.

County Road GG is eight miles of gravel road and is plowed by the county. OLT staff maintains the half mile long driveway. Windy weather in the valley often causes snow drifts and slick surfaces. A good vehicle with winter tires is very helpful. Bald or summer tires and two wheel drive is not recommended during severe weather.

A little bit of thoughtful preparation will go a long way in making your winter visit to Valley View a pleasant and comfortable experience. Bring warm clothing, good hiking shoes and snow boots, hats, gloves, warm socks, flash lights and very warm bedding if you're camping.

Before you leave home, check out a great website to see road conditions: www.cotrip.org. This website provides up to date information on roads throughout Colorado. There are several great weather pages including Weather Underground and NOAA, the closest town for the most accurate temperatures would be Villa Grove, CO. If you are a cross country skier or like to snowshoe, our hiking trails can be great fun for winter activities. Please feel free to call the office for up to date information, we are happy to answer your questions!

Everyday we have guests who arrive unprepared, who think they will "rough it out" camping or arrive with no understanding about the conditions here. Please plan ahead, be responsible, be proactive in planning your visit for the safety and happiness of all. Thanks and Happy Winter!