Rich in flavor (and history) the pineapple ultimately became the universal symbol of generous hospitality and warm welcome.

As their team passes along the pineapple, they share the history that makes it so significant at Normandy Farm.

Much more than a bright yellow tropical fruit, the pineapple commands attention with its leathery skin and tough leaves.

With an appearance named after the pinecone, you work your way through the spiky exterior and reach the soft and sweet inside fruit.

Rich in flavor (and history) the pineapple ultimately became the universal symbol of generous hospitality and warm welcome. As their team passes along the pineapple, we’d like to share the history that makes it so significant at Normandy Farm:

• Approximately 3,000 years ago, the pineapple is thought to have originated in the Amazon rainforest where the Tupinamba people integrated it into daily life, using the fruit to make wine, medicines, and even craft poison arrows.
• In 1493 Christopher Columbus is said to have discovered clusters of pineapples growing in a Caribbean village.
• He presented them to King Ferdinand in Spain, and the pineapple obsession began.
  
• By the 1550’s pineapples were being shipped regularly from the Caribbean to Europe. They became a rare luxury and were the ultimate symbol of wealth. Eventually named the “King of Fruit”, one pineapple could cost as much as $8,000 in today’s dollars!
• Through the years, the fruit became an extravagant banquet centerpiece and showed immense wealth and power.
• The host who presented the fruit in ice creams, sorbets, and fruit candies was considered extremely generous.

• By the 18th century, the fruit became an architectural feature, incorporated into paintings, sculptures, wallpapers, and pillars of churches and grand homes as a sign of welcome and greeting. It was also considered a peacemaker.
• In the 19th century, Christmas in America set the stage for the pineapple’s symbolism as they know it today. It was the shining star, at the top of celebratory centerpieces cascading with holly, apples, and pinecones.

At Normandy Farm, they celebrate their team’s shining stars with a pineapple pin.

You may notice staff members sporting a pin (or two), which means they displayed outstanding acts of service. Who would have thought that the discovery of this fruit would have such a powerful evolution!

Whether they are serving it or symbolizing it at The Farm, it is their pleasure to serve you.

In December, Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center also shared the news that they were named the 2021 Business of the Year by The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Montgomery County.

Located just 25 minutes from Center City Philadelphia and situated in the heart of Blue Bell, Pa., Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center is more than a meticulously restored American landmark—it’s a fully wired, high-tech hospitality venue.

Relax on their grand terrace, sip a cocktail in America’s oldest silo, play a challenging game of golf on their championship course, plan an event with us or dine on their delectable farm-to-table cuisine.

To find out more about Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center click here.