Our History

The story of Harlton Apiaries is a testament to the enduring legacy of family businesses and the art of beekeeping. It began with Joe Harlton, a young boy tasked with caring for his father's bees, a responsibility that sparked a lifelong passion. This passion led Joe and his wife Clare to establish The Honey House in 1960, a venture that started modestly in their garage but would grow to become a cornerstone of the community in Souris. Despite the tragic loss of Joe in 1972, the business did not falter; his son Irwin took the helm, ensuring that the family's dedication to beekeeping and the production of quality honey continued. 

Over the years, the Harlton family not only maintained their commitment to this sweet endeavor but also expanded it. From the original couple of hives, Harlton Apiaries now manages approximately 1800 colonies, a clear indicator of the business's growth and success. The family's connection to the land and their bees is evident in the way they have sustained and developed their operations. The construction of a new house and The Honey House on the highway in 1974 marked a significant milestone, symbolizing both progress and continuity.

Irwin's leadership until 1989, followed by a brief hiatus and subsequent revival of the business, reflects the resilience and adaptability that are often required to sustain a family enterprise across generations. Today, the involvement of Irwin's children, Keith and Jocelyn, along with Jocelyn's husband Chris, and even the occasional help from grandchildren, illustrates a multi-generational commitment to the family's legacy. 

The evolution of Harlton Apiaries from a small-scale operation to a commercial success story is inspiring. It showcases the importance of family, tradition, and the willingness to adapt and persevere through challenges. The Harlton family's journey with The Honey House and Harlton Apiaries serves as a shining example of how a family's shared passion can create a lasting impact on both their community and the industry at large.