Using Food to Build A Community

Using Food to Build A Community

Two blocks from the city courthouse in Goshen, tucked into the corner of W. Washington Street, is the Mill Race Farmers Market. Some older members of the community may remember this gray-sided building as a sawmill or later, a furniture warehouse powered by energy created on the Mill Race. In May of 2000, however, families biked down the Mill Race bike trail, and cars, and tractor beds transformed the deserted parking lots surrounding the building into a place of bustling activity. This is now a common scene every Saturday morning from 7-1, and Tuesday evenings from 3-7. Upon entering the doors, you will not find remnants of chairs and desks, but tables displaying a variety of produce, breads, soaps, crafts, and many other items. People carrying woven baskets stop to chat with the vendors and purchase a week's worth of produce while musicians from the community play Appalachian folk music on banjos, fiddles, guitars, and one upright bass.

The booths on either side of the market entrance sell herbal vinegar, fabric, and soap. Standing behind the booth directly ahead is Beth Neff, one of the original visionaries of the market. In addition to selling a variety of organically grown apples at her booth, Beth works diligently as the contact person for the Community Sustainability Project (CSP). Recognized as a not-for-profit organization in 1998, the CSP has run a co-operative organic farm in Bristol, the Farmers Market, and is currently working with city officials to promote "smart growth" and to find ways of empowering the community. Members of the CSP are concerned about voicing the needs and wishes of the underrepresented populations in Goshen and educating the public about the environment, nu...

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Anyone interested in running a booth in the Farmer's Market can easily obtain an application from Beth. The applicant must describe what he or she plans to sell, how much space the booth will require, and how long they intend to participate in the market. As contact person for the CSA, Beth reviews the applications and makes a decision based on the current product selection and desired commitment to the market. There is a minimal fee per week based on floor space of a booth and how long the vendor will occupy it.

The Market has flourished since its conception two years ago, growing both in vendors and shoppers. As news of this unique place spreads through the community, others join in the excitement apparent in veteran shoppers. Whether in search of top-quality food, crafts, music, or companionship, the Mill Race Farmers Market is the place to be.