In 1884, J.W. Fritter located on a 160-acre homestead on the northeast end of Eagle Lake.  In 1903, he planted an apple and peach orchard. Whether growing fruit or vegetables, Eagle Lake’s elevation and short growing season present a challenge. Fritter’s orchard was a sought after commodity.

The Lassen Advocate of September 1914 reported: “Fine Apples From Eagle Lake. The Advocate is pleased to acknowledge receipt of some fine apples on the Fritter place at Eagle Lake. J.S. Hamilton has the placed leased and brought the apples in a few days ago. They are of the Bellflower family, one of them is known as the Summer Bellflower and other  as the Red Bellflower. They are large and beautiful specimens of the fruit grown on the Fritter place, over five thousand feet above sea level. Such apples have the prime requisites, color, flavor and keeping qualities.”

Tim