Milton Farmers' Market

• Milton, DE
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It all began when an idea planted itself in the fertile brain of then-town councilman Norman Lester. And, like any well-tended plant in any fertile field, the idea took root and flourished, reaching full bloom as the Milton Farmers’ Market. 

Lester had long attended the many community festivals in the Town of Milton, and had noted their individual successes. He started thinking about how to build upon these experiences, to have an ongoing communal activity that would serve the people of Milton as well as draw others into town. He envisioned something useful, something to be offered in a friendly walking environment with live music and plenty of food. Thus, the seeds for Milton’s first farmers market were planted. 

Mentioning the concept at a town council meeting where he served as council member, Lester immediately received approval from people in attendance, and soon began getting phone calls of encouragement. From its inception, the idea of our own farmers’ market was embraced by the community. 

Encouraged, Lester researched the qualities of successful markets, put out a survey in town to elicit feedback regarding days and times, kept a list of desirable features and products, and then contacted various agencies to make sure the now-blossoming plans for Milton Farmers’ Market complied with all requirements of the Department of Agriculture, the Health Department, and the IRS. 

Norman’s warmest memory recalls the very first Friday market. “Everyone showed up! Spirits were high! There were lines of people waiting to buy asparagus, talking, visiting, listening to music!" That was the beginning of the Milton Farmers’ Market first season, named DDA’s “Most successful start-up market of 2011."Â 

And, it all came from the seed of an idea fostered and nurtured by Norman Lester!

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