Alpena Farmers’ Market reflects on history

ALPENA, Mich. — August 1 through 7 is National Farmers’ Market appreciation week. To celebrate, we looked at the history of our very own market here in Alpena.

Current director JB Cook said his father founded the market in the late 1970s. Those were the days when big box stores hadn’t yet arrived in Alpena and local farmers had a larger share of the food market.

Cook said that, at its height, the market would host between 30 and 40 vendors.

And they sold more than produce.

“We had live animals at the Farmers’ Market, which we don’t have now. We had chickens and goats and pigs. And they were selling pigs and actually slaughtering them there at the Farmers’ Market.”

Cook said that when the big box stores arrived, the market faced stiff competition. People preferred the low prices and off–season produce. At one point, only three or four vendors set up shop.

However, Cook and his family persevered, and found a new niche for the market to fill.

“We’ve adapted, we’ve changed our products, we’ve learned how to provide fresh things with newer variety — things you can’t find at a grocery store.”

Cook said the market now acts as a tourist attraction, and broadened its appeal with pastry and art booths.

And through their collaboration with welfare programs, the AFM also provides fresh, healthy food to food–insecure people.

Even during the COVID–19 pandemic, they continue to turn out at Michekewis Park with crafts, pastries, and veggies.

We think it’s safe to say the Farmers’ Market will remain an Alpena fixture for a long time.