Hidden gem to host mum festival

Dawn Rye | Writer drye@ncppub.com For many locals, the hidden gem known as the Homestead Orchard has been a family-owned orchard for almost 60 years. Owners Gilbert and Mabel Smith, along with son Edwin, own the family-run orchard that offers locals and travelers warm apple turnovers, homemade loaves of bread and pies and a variety…