Made in NJ: Beloved Montclair ice cream landmark still drawing crowds after nearly 100 years
Current owner Jason Street, who took over the business from his aunt and uncle, says Applegate employs 50 to 60 high school and college students each year.
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A North Jersey institution that has been serving homemade ice cream for generations continues to mix history, tradition and community at its Upper Montclair location.
Applegate Farm traces its roots back to 1848 as a working dairy farm before owners Frank Oliver and Mr. Tinkham began making ice cream around the time of the stock market crash in 1929. Nearly a century later, the farm remains known for its homemade recipes and longtime ties to the community.
Current owner Jason Street, who took over the business from his aunt and uncle, says Applegate employs 50 to 60 high school and college students each year.
"It's a staple of the community. We employ 50 to 60 high school and college students. It's a great first job," Street said.
Many of the recipes still used today date back to the early 1900s, including the farm's vanilla ice cream recipe.
While Applegate embraces its history, the farm has also gained attention for creative seasonal offerings, including apple cider donut sundaes and other specialty treats that have attracted attention on social media.
Street says the farm's success has come from maintaining quality ingredients and staying committed to serving the community.
"It's a staple of the community. We employ 50 to 60 high school and college students. It's a great first job," Street said.
