Funks Grove Maple Sirup (yes, the spelling is correct) in the Route 66 hamlet of Funks Grove, Ill., has begun harvesting maple sap from its ancient stand of trees, reports the Kankakee Daily Journal.
Late February and early March are the times in which the sap rises in the trees.
Production began in 1824 when German immigrant Isaac Funk arrived at the maple grove now known as Funk’s Grove. For the Funk family, “sirup’ is still spelled the way Noah Webster spelled it in his first dictionary. The spelling is protected by a trust set up by Hazel Funk Holmes.
Over the years, Funk’s Grove ‘sirup’ has become a part of Route 66’s legendary status as “The Mother Road,” the nation’s first major interstate highway.
“We usually have enough sirup made and bottled to open our shop by the first of March,” said Debby Funk.
The family gives tours to groups during the week and offers self-guided tours on weekends.
And you’d better order its sweet stuff quickly. Depending on the size of the harvest, Funks Grove Maple Sirup is usually sold out by early to mid-summer.
I assume you will be ordering a couple of pounds of maple candy this week. 🙂
I have a half gallon in our pantry. Once I tried real maple “sirup” from Funks Grove, I knew I’d never again like the stuff that is sold in the supermarket. I use it in salad dressings, marinades, and for cooking. It’s delicious!
My parents have given me some real maple syrup from Vermont, before. It’s MUCH better than the colored corn syrup we usually get in the store. I’ve never tried Funks Grove before. Perhaps I should give it a try.
The difference between Funks Grove Maple Sirup and Mrs. Butterworth is as striking as the difference between raw honey and Sue Bee.