Remembering Granny Bird: A Community icon in Wapinitia, OR

Granny Bird, also known as Margaret Beebe, was a beloved figure in the small town of Wapinitia, Oregon. Located in Wasco County, about 10 miles from Maupin and Tygh Valley, Wapinitia was a close-knit community where Granny Bird left a lasting impact. While not much is known about the town's founding date, the establishment of the post office and the school in 1878 marked an important milestone in its history. A hotel was built in 1915, by Earl Barzee and was commonly referred to as the Barzee Hotel.

In addition to the post office, school, and hotel in town there was a community mercantile that was run by Granny Bird, along with her children, Mary, Jack, and Diana. They grew up in a little white house with blue trim. Out front of the house was a garden where they would grow vegetables and flowers. To one side of the house was a barn and to the other a pond. There were many ponds around the property that served as great fishing spots; catfish was the most likely catch of the day. It was quaint, but it was home, and they learned the beauty of family, love, and homemade goodness there down that old dirt road.

For my mother, Granny Bird's farm was a summer haven during her childhood. She would spend her days tending to the garden, feeding the chickens and geese that roamed the property. Among them, Old Jeremiah stood out as the meanest goose anyone had ever encountered. Despite his ornery nature, Granny Bird's farm was a place of warmth and love.

When it comes to baking, some of the best recipes are those that have been passed down through generations. In my family, two of the most treasured recipes come from my grandmother, Diana, and my aunt, Mary. Both of them were daughters of Granny Bird, and their love for baking has been a big inspiration for our family.

One of the all-time favorites in our household is Grandma Diana's Banana Bread. This classic recipe has been enjoyed by multiple generations and continues to be a crowd-pleaser. The secret to its deliciousness lies in the use of slightly over-ripe bananas, which add a natural sweetness and moistness to the bread. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible. Grandma Diana's Banana Bread is a simple yet satisfying treat. The recipe calls for basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, but it's the addition of mashed bananas that elevates it to a whole new level. The result is a moist and flavorful bread with a subtle hint of banana in every bite. It's perfect for breakfast with a warm cup of coffee or an afternoon snack, smothered with butter of course.

On the other hand, Aunt Mary's Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a unique twist on a traditional favorite. This recipe showcases Aunt Mary's creativity and her ability to transform a humble vegetable into a delectable dessert. The zucchini adds moisture and a subtle earthy flavor to the bread, while the chocolate chips provide bursts of sweetness with every mouthful. Aunt Mary's Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a wonderful way to sneak some vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. The combination of cocoa powder, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile that will leave you craving for more. It's a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, and it's also a great way to use up any excess zucchini from your garden.

Both Grandma Diana's Banana Bread and Aunt Mary's Chocolate Zucchini Bread are true testaments to the power of homemade baking. In a world filled with pre-packaged and processed foods, these recipes remind us of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something from scratch. They are a reflection of the love and care that went into each batch, and they bring our family together in the most delicious way. So, the next time you're in the mood for a homemade treat, why not try Grandma Diana's Banana Bread or Aunt Mary's Chocolate Zucchini Bread? These family favorites are sure to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories for generations to come.

After they both passed the dream of originating Granny Bird's bakery became more of a predetermined legacy in the making. Keeping memories alive within the recipes that were passed down is the driving motivation that made way for this dream to manifest into fruition.

Mealtime at Granny Bird's was always a special occasion. The table would be set with mismatched dishes, and apple pie was a frequent guest on the dessert menu. Granny Bird's apple pies were legendary in the community, and she took pride in making them fresh from scratch.

Granny Bird's apple pies were a labor of love. She would start by carefully selecting the best apples from the local area. The apples were then peeled, cored, and sliced with precision. Granny Bird had a secret ingredient that made her pies stand out - a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg that added a delightful warmth to each bite. Of course, the true secret will stay within the family for generations to come.

The crust was another crucial element of Granny Bird's apple pies. She believed that a good crust was the foundation of any great pie. With a mix of butter and shortening, Granny Bird would create a flaky, golden crust that perfectly complemented the sweet apple filling. Each pie was baked to perfection, with the aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the little blue farmhouse.

Granny Bird's apple pies became a symbol of love and community in Wapinitia. She would often share her pies with neighbors and friends, spreading joy one slice at a time.

Beyond her culinary skills, Granny Bird was known for her generosity and kindness. She was always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear to anyone in need. Her warm smile and gentle spirit made her a beloved figure in Wapinitia. Whether it was organizing community events or supporting local causes, Granny Bird was at the heart of it all.

As the years went by, Granny Bird's farm became a gathering place for the younger generation. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren would often visit her farm during the summer, eager to learn from her wisdom and experience. Granny Bird would patiently teach them about gardening, animal care, and the importance of hard work. Her farm became a classroom of life lessons and cherished memories.

Sadly, Granny Bird passed away in 1999, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire the survived family of bakers. Her farm is now a preserved memory in the hearts of those she loved; a reminder of the values she held dear. Her recipes have been passed down through generations, ensuring that her apple pies live on.

Granny Bird, or Margaret Beebe, may have been a simple woman in the eyes of some, but to the people of Wapinitia and her family, she was much more. She was a community icon, a symbol of love, generosity, and knew the power of a homemade apple pie. Her memory lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her and taste her delicious creations.

Our mission

Granny Bird's apple pie recipe holds a special place in our hearts, and it is our utmost mission to preserve and carry on her legacy. This cherished recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and comfort to countless homes. Everything we bake is in testament to the love and dedication Granny Bird poured into her baking. It is with great honor and respect that we continue to bake Granny Bird's apple pies, ensuring that her timeless flavors and traditions live on. Along with this signature treat, we will offer cakes, pastries, and fresh breads as well. Our simple ingredients will reminisce those of simpler times in age-old kitchens just like Granny Bird's.

Our vision

To touch the lives of everyone who shares in the delectable tastes of our treats. We are inspired by Granny Bird and her ways of simple, yet impactful, living. We aim to build a legacy to the generations of bakers that will follow in Granny Bird's footsteps as we change the communities around us, one Apple Pie at a time.

Owner & Baker

Great-granddaughter of Granny Bird

Tiffany Yale

Founder of Granny Bird's Treats