On Saturday mornings, the town square turns into a local Farmer’s Market. It has for many years. Locals set up their tables and sell everything from homemade jellies, jams, fresh grown produce and baked items to handmade crocheted scarves. As soon as the cold weather breaks, you’ll see the grassy area come to life with an array of items. The market has grown over the years, and with the newly built Farmer’s Market opening this Saturday, local vendors will have shelter from the elements.
Our local market dates back to 1994 when Virginia Jones and  husband, the late James Jones, along with Donald Ray, his wife, the late Marzell Ray, and son Eddie, started setting up on the courthouse lawn, offering home-grown produce and homemade canned goods. Everyone else seemed to follow.
Mrs. Jones, who is still on hand every week, says her husband loved setting up every Saturday. “James loved this place,” said Virginia. “He worked a full-time job in Murfreesboro, then came home and raised four gardens.  He just loved it.”  Mr. Jones passed away eight years ago, but you will still find Virginia offering canned goods and freshly baked items. “I still come out here because of him,” Virginia added. “He loved doing this so much, and it reminds me of him.”
After 17 years, selling goods every Saturday on the courthouse lawn has become second nature to Virginia. It feels like home to her. Though the new building will open Saturday, she is undecided about a permanent move. “I’ll go over there some, but I’ll come here some, too,” she said with a smile. “If it rains, I’ll go over there. I’ll be at both places.”
She, along with many others, will be taking a required Domestic Kitchens Class on Thursday to receive a certification to sell canned and baked goods.  Executive Mike Foster has arranged for transportation and along with help and organization from Farmer’s Market president Jeff Cantrell, locals will be certified and ready to set up at the new location, this Saturday.
The new building, provided by the county, is located at the north end of the community buildings, still under construction, on Hwy. 56 south. Though the space has filled up quickly, some may be able to secure a spot at the Market or even lease a spacefor one day. For more information on booth rental, contact Jeff Cantrell at 597-8292.