Just outside Lexington, where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley, Whistle Creek has been humming with the sound of bees for nearly 50 years. On this same land where she once spent childhood afternoons watching her father tend hives, Hillary Gordon now helps lead her family’s business—Whistle Creek Apiaries—carrying forward a legacy of care, craftsmanship, and community.
A Family Story Rooted in the Valley
Gordon recalled how her father, who founded the apiary in 1976, brought his daughters along to the hives when they were young. “Some of my fondest memories are of those days, learning from him as he explained the complexities of the hive and the delicate science behind helping each colony thrive,” she said. Her sister often kept her distance from the buzzing activity but still absorbed the sense of wonder, Gordon added.
The apiary reflects the values of both of Gordon’s parents. “Our father, who grew up on a dairy farm, instilled in us a deep respect for hard work and persistence – principles that still guide us today,” she said said. “Our mother, the current owner of Whistle Creek, infused the company with her creativity and attention to detail.” From designing the original logo and labels in the 1970s to setting a standard of meticulous quality, their mother shaped much of the business identity visitors still see today.
After their father’s passing, the family faced a transition. “This new chapter marked a transition, with our general manager, Malinda, stepping in to lead and grow the company in his memory and guide Whistle Creek forward as a woman-led family business,” Gordon explained. The result has been a team-driven effort to continue his vision while expanding opportunities for the future.
The Taste of Authentic Virginia
What makes Whistle Creek unique, Gordon said, is its dedication to keeping honey pure and unaltered. Unlike mass-produced honey that undergoes pasteurization, theirs is raw, natural, and unprocessed. “Mass-produced honey is often heated to high temperatures during pasteurization, which can destroy enzymes, alter flavor, and reduce the natural health benefits,” she explained. Seasonal varieties reflect the wildflowers and plants blooming near each hive, giving travelers a taste of the Valley’s landscape in every jar.
The apiary’s commitment has earned it the Virginia’s Finest designation, a mark reserved for specialty food products that meet or exceed industry standards. For Gordon, the recognition underscores her family’s approach. “For us, this distinction affirms our commitment to excellence and the foundation established by our parents,” she said.
A Place in the Region’s Story
The name Whistle Creek itself tells a story. The stream that inspired it runs through the family’s great-grandparents’ dairy farm, connecting generations who lived and worked on the land. “The time-honored memories of Whistle Creek, and the family’s bond with the land and its history, are carried forward in every drop of Whistle Creek Apiaries honey,” Gordon said.
For visitors to the Shenandoah Valley, that sense of place is part of the experience. “Bringing home a jar of Whistle Creek Apiaries honey lets visitors savor the valley and remember the people and traditions that make it unique,” Gordon said. “We hope every drop carries with it a wonderful memory of this special land.”
Community at the Core
Like the bees themselves, the business thrives on community. Whistle Creek’s partnership with Food Lion has expanded their reach into nearly 300 stores across Virginia, while still keeping their family values at the forefront. “Food Lion’s Local Goodness initiative to partner with local businesses strengthens the bond between shoppers and the communities they call home,” Gordon explained.
The philosophy is inspired by the bees themselves. “Just as bees rely on the intricate cooperation within the hive, with each member playing a unique role, we see our business as part of a similarly complex community,” Gordon said. Loyal customers, dedicated employees, and business partners all contribute to the ongoing success of the apiary.
Continuing the Legacy
Looking ahead, the family sees growth as an opportunity to stay true to their roots while embracing new ideas. “We strive to honor the hard work, persistence and creativity on which our family business was founded,” Gordon said. “Looking ahead, we envision Whistle Creek Apiaries growing by introducing new products, deepening community ties, and expanding partnerships.”
For travelers, that means every jar offers more than sweetness—it tells a story of the Shenandoah Valley, of a family rooted in tradition, and of a Virginia legacy that continues to thrive.
