In 1977, a then 23-year-old Karl Wiles was inspired by the ability to make a living off the surrounding land. With no prior experience he began tapping the maple trees on his property and, shortly after, established Cedarvale Maple Syrup Co.
As a recent college graduate with a degree in Economics, Karl had limited knowledge of the industry and looked for the most efficient way to get started; he connected with a retiring sugarhouse owner, purchased his equipment, and started a full-scale maple syrup operation.
After just a few years, Cedarvale Maple Syrup Co. was a fully operating sugarhouse and Christmas Tree Farm with a large and loyal following. As one of the only maple syrup producers at the time, Cedarvale quickly gained recognition as the local favorite, adorning gift baskets and kitchen tables for the families of Syracuse and surrounding communities year-round.
In 2011, a then 11-year-old Michael Spicer was on a 5th grade field trip when he was inspired to start making maple syrup himself. Shortly after, he tapped over 100 trees in his own backyard and by 18-years-old produced enough product to sell at local farmers markets.