In 1966, Her Dad Invested in a Cherry Canning Company. Nearly 60 Years Later, She Bought the Store It Started Without Knowing the Family Connection (Exclusive)

**Celebrating 60 Years of Cherry Farming Heritage in Michigan**

In a remarkable twist of fate, Leisa Eckerle Hankins, a fifth-generation fruit farmer, acquired the iconic cherry store Benjamin Twiggs in 2020 without realising that her father had played a crucial role in its inception decades earlier. Her father invested in this cherry-focused venture when it was launched in 1966, a fact that would only come to light after her decision to take over the business.

Benjamin Twiggs, located in Traverse City, Michigan, is much more than just a store – it embodies a rich family history steeped in cherry farming. Eckerle’s roots in the cherry industry run deep, starting with her great-grandfather, who founded the family’s farming legacy. “I grew up on the farm, picking cherries as a child and eventually managing a receiving station,” she shared in an interview, emphasising her lifelong connection to the cherry business.

The opportunity to buy Benjamin Twiggs presented itself at a time when Eckerle was looking to merge her family’s agricultural heritage with a retail outlet. “It just felt like the perfect fit,” she explained, expressing her desire to bridge the gap between her family farm and the cherry store. Upon acquiring the shop, she discovered her father’s long-standing tie to it, which added a layer of historical significance to her venture.

Today, Eckerle’s family remains heavily involved in the cherry farming process. Her 84-year-old father and 27-year-old son lend their expertise on the farm, while her daughter assists her in the store and her mother takes charge of packaging. This multi-generational involvement exemplifies a family completely devoted to cherry cultivation.

Eckerle has a clear mission for Benjamin Twiggs: to support fellow farmers and promote cherry farming. She explains, “Everything we do with the store revolves around how to help farmers earn more.” This mission aligns with the store’s status as the original cherry establishment in Traverse City, a region recognised as a major producer of tart cherries across the United States.

Moreover, Benjamin Twiggs serves as both a retail outlet and an educational hub. Eckerle is keen to inform customers and the community about the local cherry farming industry and the numerous health benefits associated with cherries. The store offers a variety of products, including jams, cherry sodas, and unique gift items such as dish towels and tumblers, all sourced from Michigan cherries.

The Eckerle family’s extensive farmland spans hundreds of acres, supporting around 20,000 fruit trees, including cherries and apples. While a significant portion of the harvested cherries is sent to processors for sale, Eckerle is committed to supporting local grocery stores as well, further bolstering regional agriculture.

The establishment of Benjamin Twiggs has enabled Eckerle to amplify the voice of cherry growers in the industry. In 2024, she founded a cherry growers alliance that now comprises more than 100 members. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed; she has been appointed to the Michigan Cherry Committee by the state governor, further solidifying her role in the agricultural community.

Despite facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and dealing with construction-related issues, Benjamin Twiggs has thrived and is now celebrating its 60th anniversary at a newly opened location. This milestone will be marked with a series of events taking place from October 22 to October 25.

The anniversary celebration will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, alongside activities designed to engage local farmers and the community. A giveaway featuring 60 prizes and baked goods from a new bakery partner will add to the festive atmosphere, making this a memorable occasion for all involved.

As the cherry industry faces evolving challenges, Eckerle’s dedication to her family’s farming legacy and her proactive approach to supporting local agriculture exemplify the importance of community and sustainability within the cherry farming world. Benjamin Twiggs stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of cherry farming in Michigan, poised to thrive for many more years to come.