The history of how Ontario's famous 'Big Apple' came into existence
The Big Apple is a popular roadside attraction in Ontario that's pretty hard to miss. It's big, it's red, and it's known as a popular stop for travellers along the heavily-travelled Highway 401.
The iconic landmark sits right off the major highway in Colborne, Ontario and has been hailed as the world's largest apple-shaped structure, towering above 401 traffic at 35 feet tall.
Also nicknamed Mr. Applehead, the now-iconic structure was first envisioned by George Boycott, an Australian immigrant who was no stranger to oversized fruit attractions.
Boycott took inspiration for The Big Apple from a structure called The Big Pineapple in his hometown of Queensland, repurposing the concept for the apples that grow in abundance in Ontario's agricultural regions, while making a tongue-in-cheek reference to the popular nickname for New York City.
Boycott owned six pizza shops in Queensland, but sold all of them to fund his dream of building a giant apple in Colborne.
And it's a dream that would prove fruitful.
When Boycott relocated his family across the world to Colborne, Ont., in 1976, he sought out the help of local builder Henry Mensen, with whom he worked to create what would become known as The Big Apple.
When it finally opened in 1987, Boycott's dream of building a memorable roadside attraction for tourists had finally come true.
The Big Apple is, in part, a commemoration of the town's rich history of apple production. Today, it remains a quirky stop off the road where people can marvel at the structure and even get a photo-op or two.
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Through the years, The Big Apple has gone through changes — some temporary and others permanent. In 2013, he had a face painted on him with eyes, a nose and a smile that stretches across the front of his face.
During COVID-19, Mr. Applehead was even given a mask to show support for frontline workers and those affected by the pandemic.
Northumberland County, the region where The Big Apple is located, is the fourth largest producer of apples in the province.
On top of its reputation of being the largest apple-shaped structure in the world, the structure is home to an information booth and even an observation deck overlooking the property and Highway 401.
So, why build a giant roadside apple? The Big Apple exists as a sort of advertisement for the apple-based goods sold at the site. An on-site pie factory produces delectable treats including several variations of apple pies, like apple crumble, apple maple, Dutch apple and more.
The venue has reportedly sold almost 8 million pies, at around 2,000 per week.
The Big Apple has since expanded its operations, and you can find a ton more to do at this popular road trip destination.
If you visit, make sure to check out the petting zoo or cider bar.
This roadside attraction is more than just a giant apple or a place to stop on a long road trip. It's a vision that's crossed oceans before coming to life and working its way into the hearts of Ontario residents for decades.
The Big Apple is located at 262 Orchard Drive, Colborne.
The Big Apple
