Community Dream Becomes a Reality at Old Washington

The opening day for Old Washington Farmers’ Market first market season is Saturday, June 13, 2009 at 7:00 a.m. The market will be held on the lawn of Washington City Hall.

It is exciting for a community to have a common dream. It is even more exciting to watch that community work together to make that dream come true. That is exactly what is happening with the Old Washington Farmers’ Market!

The story of the Old Washington Farmers’ Market began back in January. A group of community members gathered to talk about ways to strengthen and enhance the community and the idea of a farmers’ market located in Old Washington would offer a new economic opportunity to local producers and provide a gathering place that fosters the connection between our food, our culture, our land and our environment. They began talking to other people in the community in an effort to gauge if there might be an interest. The general response was overwhelmingly and enthusiastically “yes”. Since that time, the idea of a farmers' market in Old Washington has become the talk of the community and surrounding areas.

The community members began working with Jean Jones, president of the Arkansas Farmers’ Market Association and manager of the Gateway Farmers’ Market (Texarkana); and Debra Bolding, market manager of the Howard County Farmers’ Market (Nashville). In addition, three community members attended the Arkansas Farmers’ Market Conference in Fayetteville where they learned the in’s and out of successful farmers’ markets. They were well on their way.

Washington Mayor Paul Henley along with community members Stephanie Buckley, Bob Erwin, LuGene Erwin and Keenan Williams make up the Old Washington Farmers’ Market Advisory Committee. Dr. Vic Ford, University of Arkansas Southwest Research & Extension Center; Gerald Alexander, Hempstead County Extension Agent; and Jones, president of the Arkansas Farmers Market Association have assisted in expertise and guidance to ensure success of market planning and implementation.

Over 20 vendors are signed up and there is room for more at this Arkansas-grown and produced market. Old Washington has a fun, educational venue with a unique history that will draw people from all parts of the Ark-La-Tex. Many wonderful events and workshops are being planned to create a true Farmers’ Market experience for the customers and vendors. The market is open on Saturday’s from 7 a.m. until Noon or sold out and Tuesday ' s from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Stop by on opening day, Saturday, June 13 and buy fresh, local produce and support our Arkansas Farmers. After all, it’s not just the opening day of the Old Washington Farmers’ Market, it is also a celebration of a community dream!

If you are interested in participating in this exciting opportunity or for more information on the market, email: oldwashingtonfarmersmarket@gmail.com.