ABOUT
Founder, Susan Benjamin
Susan Benjamin is a businesswoman, author, and researcher who founded the Appalachian Forest Retreat in 2002 and the umbrella group, the True Treats Initiative, in 2022. A former college professor and communications strategist, she participated in initiatives under two presidents, consulted with hundreds of large and small organizations, and more. Since 2010, she has been owner of True Treats, the nation's only research-based historic candy company, featuring teas, toys and books, as well as candy. She regularly appears in media from NPR to ABC News, The New York Times to Smithsonian Magazine. Her business, True Treats, was even a question on Jeopardy. Author of 10 books, including award- winning national and international hits. Her 11th book - American Fun Foods, will appear in bookstores in 2024. She dedicates significant time to gardening, animal rescue, and sustainable living. She completed the Master Gardener program in 2017, and her home and retreat are Wildlife Federation certified habitats. She happily welcomes guests to the retreat for a peaceful and joyous experience.
The Appalachian Forest Retreat
The Appalachian Forest Retreat started as a small chicken farm and rescue for horses and other animals. Susan and her husband Dan bought the farm in 2002, transforming it into a nature preserve and retreat with guests from every walk of life. Eventually, Susan closed the retreat to focus on writing books and operating her businesses. Over the years, though, Susan's vision about a retreat kept growing: one where guests would have amazing experiences, while the land around it would continue to be protected. Now, with two buildings and beds for up to twelve guests, the retreats will soon run to full capacity with 23 beds, two additional "small houses", and a facility for meetings, events, and creative endeavors.
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AFR is part of the True Treats Initiative, whose mission is to preserve land, stories, and the essential experiences that make us feel good. We are affiliated with True Treats, the nation's only historic candy store.
Conact Us at the Appalachian Forest Retreat
Have questions? Want to know more? Here's how you can reach us:
Call: 202-277-0391 or (304) 258-7649
E-mail: susan@AFR-WV
FIND US ON: Evolve, airbnb,
Our mailing address is:
True Treats/AFR
PO Box 201
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425