New Madrid’s farmers market supports local growers, artists

New Madrid’s first farmers market offered a variety of items on its opening day, June 10 in the grassy lot at the corner of Main and Mill streets. Plans call for the New Madrid Farmers Market to set up every other Saturday. The next one will be from 7a.m. to noon June 24. (Jill Bock/Standard Democrat)

NEW MADRID, Mo. — A farmers market has sprouted in New Madrid.

On its opening day, June 10, sellers began setting up their tents in the grassy lot at the corner of Main and Mill streets as the sun was just peeking over the horizon in preparation for the 7 a.m. opening.

It was a perfect day for the new venture, noted New Madrid Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Christina McWaters.

Laura Jane Kimball was pleased with her purchases at the Farmers Market. (Jill Bock, Staff)

“We couldn’t ask for better weather, it is nice and cool,” she said. “We haven’t had any mosquitoes so far, so that is good.”

The town’s first farmers market offered a variety of items. There were lots of baked goods, jellies, jewelry and handcrafted items for adults and children.

McWaters said as the growing season continues, local farmers and gardeners have indicated they will bring their produce to the local market. Another vendor has advised McWaters that she will offer fresh eggs for sale.

There is no charge to set up a space at New Madrid Farmers Market although McWaters requests vendors register on the Chamber’s Facebook page or by contacting her at Chamber office at 573-748-5300.

She emphasized that all items for sale must be either handmade, homemade or locally grown. McWaters added that vendors from throughout the region are welcome to set up booths.

Terunda Farr with Lee Woods Bakery had set up a table filled with baked goods. Customers were choosing from offerings of banana pudding, bread pudding with crown royal sauce, banana nut bread and sugar cookies. Only the customers arriving very early had the opportunity to try her lemonade, which quickly sold out.

Farr said the Farmers Market was a good way for her to showcase her baked goods.

“And hopefully as the word gets out more people will come out and shop around,” Farr said.

Destiny McSpadden arrived with a large basket on her arm that she said she intended to fill as she moved from vendor to vendor.

“I love a good farmers market,” McSpadden said. “All the fresh stuff and all the locals bringing what they have to bring to the area. This is great.”

Plans call for the New Madrid Farmers Market to set up every other Saturday. The next one will be from 7a.m. to noon June 24.