The sweet, tangy flavor of fresh-pressed apple cider is always an autumn treat and the 1761 Pownalborough Courthouse in Dresden was a perfect setting for Sunday’s cider-pressing sponsored by the Lincoln County Historical Association.

Attendees gathered on the lawn and watched as LCHA volunteers including Ed Kavanagh of Wiscasset cranked a handle round and round, grinding red ripe apples to a pulp. The mash was then slowly squeezed in a vise, and brown juice spilled into a bucket below. After filtering, it was ready to enjoy!

Kavanagh said for years LCHA held an annual cider-making day. “We got away from doing it but then revived it. This is the second year in a row we’ve held it,” he said as he twisted a handle squeezing the apple mash.

Gary Emmons of Richmond said he was glad LCHA was carrying on the cider-making tradition. He and wife Sandy bought several bushels of apples that morning and brought their five grandchildren to see the cider-making. The kids enjoyed it. "I sampled the cider," Emmons said. "It's wonderful, and the apple, cinnamon bread is really delicious too!”

"LCHA had its cider press and two others. Those were on loan from Wiscasset’s Morris Farm and Ron and Pat Theriault. Pat also baked the apple bread. Bond’s Orchard of Richmond donated eight bushels of apples for the event. And Boy Scout Troop 610 of Richmond picked dropped apples at Pleasant Pond Orchard, also in Richmond.

Perfect apples aren't needed to make excellent cider, Dropped ones are often used.

"We’re sponsored by American Legion Post 132 of Richmond,” said Troop 610 leader Clifton Curtis while enjoying a cup of cider. “Some of the Scouts helped gather the apples and some are here this afternoon helping with the event. One of our goals is to put ‘outing’ back into Scouting.”

Among the attendees were former Dresden selectman John Ottum and Woolwich Selectman Allison Hepler and their spouses.

LCHA bought freshly baked plain and cinnamon donuts from Clark Farms in Damariscotta. Visitors were also offered free jugs of the freshly squeezed cider. The free daylong event included tours of the historic courthouse LCHA owns and maintains.