Bartlett Pear
The Bartlett Pear we know today in North America, is the same variety that is called the "Williams" in many other parts of the world. Discovered originally in 1765 by a schoolmaster in England named Mr. Stair, the Bartlett was first referred to as Stair's Pear. A nurseryman named Williams later acquired the variety, and after introducing it to the rest of England, the pear became known as the Williams Pear. About 1799, Mr. James Carter imported several Williams trees to the United States, and they were planted on the grounds of Thomas Brewer in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Later, Enoch Bartlett of Dorchester, Massachusetts acquired the Brewer estate. Not knowing the identity of the trees, Bartlett propagated and introduced the variety to the United States under his own name. It was not until 1828, when new trees arrived from Europe, that it was realized that Bartlett and Williams pears were one and the same. By then it was too late... the variety had become widely popular in the U.S. under it's adopted name... the Bartlett.
Bartletts are harvested when fully mature, but before they become ripe. Pears are a unique fruit, in that if allowed to ripen on-tree, natural deposits of lignin and cellulose will develop in the flesh, causing a "gritty" texture. Our pears are harvested and then allowed to ripen; you can expect a smoother texture with sweeter flavor.
Bartletts are the canning pear, but they are to be eaten fresh. Their wonderful flavors and smooth texture are to be enjoyed in a range of cooked and fresh prepared dishes. A favorite fall desert is freshly sliced Bartlett wedges with cheese. Remember pears can be substituted in any recipe calling for apples.
