Neil Garlick purchased Klondyke Farm in 1967.
He purchased cherry trees in Ficksburg in 1968 as a result of Jean's encouragement and the location's long, cold winters, similar to those in Europe.
In 1973, the public was allowed to participate in the real-life cherry picking experience during the pick-your-own season.
Visitors had to weigh their cherries in the manager's garage, where they could pick their own.
Since then, cherry picking, winter snow, and year-round lodging have made Klondyke a popular November/December destination.