Kotgarh's history is intertwined with the introduction of apple cultivation in the early 20th century. Samuel Evans Stokes, an American missionary who later became an Indian nationalist named Satyanand Stokes, is credited with revolutionizing the region. He introduced high-quality apple varieties, transforming the local economy and landscape. Stokes established an orchard in Thanedar, a part of Kotgarh, which became a model for apple farming in the region. His efforts led to Kotgarh becoming a major apple-producing area, significantly improving the livelihoods of the local communities. The legacy of Satyanand Stokes is still evident in the flourishing apple orchards and the prosperity of the region.