Farmers market connects local vendors with customers

Jul 23, 2020

Each Thursday, the parking lot in front of the Rosebrook Apartments comes alive with farmers and artisans who bring locally made products to shoppers. 

On July 23 vendors sold a variety of products, including fresh produce, soap, flowers, and handmade crafts. 

Steven Rittenhouse of Steven’s Farm Stand in Rochester said that the market is a good opportunity to get input from customers.

“It’s always great to get their feedback,” he said, since it helps him decide which crops to grow for future seasons. 

On Thursday afternoon, Rittenhouse offered a selection of tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, carrots, and more to a steady stream of customers. 

Middleboro-based farmers Patrick Reynolds and Matthew Bruffee also showcased a selection of fresh produce. 

Bruffee said that farmers markets like this are beneficial because “you’re supporting local business” and because “the taste is just way different when you get something out of the garden.”

Erika Hamer of Dartmouth showcased her business called “Nautical Creations,” something she called “a legacy from my dad,” who was a master knot tyer. 

She makes rope-based products like wreaths, bracelets, and zipper-pulls for jackets.

Hamer said that she has been tying knots since she was ten years old, and that this week was her first at the Rosebrook market. 

Other vendors offered products including locally grown flowers, natural soaps with essential oils, and handcrafted crochet products.

For Rosebrook residents, the market offers a unique and convenient shopping experience. 

Kaley Towns said she recently moved to the apartment complex, and visited the market for the first time. 

After buying a jar of honey, she described the market as “super convenient,” and “very accessible.” 

“It’s good to be able to support small businesses, especially right now [during the pandemic],” Allison Comoletti said. 

The farmers market is held in partnership with A.D. Makepeace and Southcoast Health. This summer vendors and customers must wear masks and maintain social distancing. Vendors are also asked to keep fresh food out of reach from customers to prevent the spread of coronavirus. 

Kim Houdlette, the Director of Community Relations at A.D. Makepeace said that instead of becoming an obstacle, this has actually offered “an educational opportunity for the farmers,” since potential buyers are asking more questions about their produce. 

She added that there are actually more vendors than usual so far this year. 

The markets will continue each Thursday from 3 to 6:30 p.m. until October 8. 

Leftover produce from farmers is donated to Damien’s Food Pantry.

Interested vendors should email Houdlette at khoudlette@admakepeace.com.