On this episode of the Fork in the Road podcast, we take a flavorful journey to Alma, the "Blueberry Capital of Georgia," to meet the Blueberry Queen, Anne Wildes. Anne lives and breathes blueberries. She owns the Blueberry Barn, teaches children the health benefits of blueberries, and advocates for the importance of blueberries to Georgia's economy. Anne's journey has taken her from a high school teacher and 4-H leader to a blueberry entrepreneur, alongside her husband, lifelong farmer Albert Wildes.

Blueberries painted on the water tower in Alma, Georgia
Caption

The Alma, GA Water Tower

Credit: David Zelski

Episode Summary:
Join us on a flavorful journey to Alma, Ga., the "Blueberry Capital of Georgia," where we meet Anne Wildes, affectionately known as the Blueberry Queen. Anne is the owner of the Blueberry Barn, a charming shop packed with everything blueberry — from fresh fruit to jams, barbecue sauce, and even candles! In this episode, Anne shares her inspiring story of transitioning from a high school teacher and 4-H leader to a blueberry entrepreneur, alongside her husband, lifelong farmer Albert Wildes.

Explore the world of locally grown Georgia blueberries and discover the health benefits and delicious products they bring to the table. From fresh blueberry juice to unique blueberry jams like "Alma Traffic Jam," you’ll get a taste of the Blueberry Barn's offerings, as well as a glimpse into the vibrant blueberry culture of Alma, home to the annual Georgia Blueberry Festival.

What You'll Learn:

  • Why fresh, local blueberries are better than imported varieties
  • The surprising health benefits of blueberries
  • How Anne Wildes became Alma's Blueberry Queen and founded the Blueberry Barn
  • The history of blueberries in Alma and their importance to Georgia's economy
  • The diverse range of blueberry products available at the Blueberry Barn

Key Moments:

  • Anne Wildes’ journey from teaching to blueberry entrepreneurship
  • A tour of the unique products at the Blueberry Barn, including jams, juices, and even blueberry jewelry
  • Albert Wildes’ perspective on blueberry farming and his family’s deep ties to the land
  • A preview of the Georgia Blueberry Festival in Alma, happening every June

 

A Fork in the Road airs Saturdays at noon and Sundays at 6:30 a.m. on GPB-TV. Check your local listings for other replays throughout the week and watch all episodes anytime at GPB.org/ForkintheRoad.  Please download and subscribe to the Fork in the Road podcast at GPB.org/ForkintheRoadpodcast or on your favorite podcast platform as well. 

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