Tailgate market opens under new shelter

Structure dedicated, market open for biz

Credit: photo Britt Combs

Dawn Hollifield (left) of Hollifield Farms makes a sale to Chelsea Lael of Nebo (right) were taking advantage of the selection of fresh local produce, flowers, honey and more.

By: Britt Combs | McDowell News
Published: June 30, 2009

Tuesday afternoon saw the end of a long wait in Marion and a new beginning, as the Historic Marion Tailgate Market opened with the dedication of the new shelter.
Mayor Everette Clark and the Marion Business Association's Freddie Killough were present to thank all involved in making the shelter a reality.
Plans were made months ago to provide a shelter for the market. Killough said the outlet was a vital link between area growers and the local market for fresh wholesome produce.
Heat, sun and sudden storms were all challenges last year, the first year of the market. The shelter will shade the vendors, keep their merchandise fresh and welcome more shoppers. It will, she said, be available for all sorts of groups and events.
The project suffered a major setback in May when, with trusses set but before the roof was installed, the trusses collapsed like dominoes. Even so, the project was completed in time for the market opening.
Clark spoke of the hurdles planners had to jump to fund the project. Generous donations came from the N.C. Rural Center, McDowell Farm Bureau, the Marion Rotary, the Marion Business Association, the McDowell Economic Development Association, Spencer's Hardware, Carolina Farm Credit and Killough's Music and Loan.
But the greatest contribution of all, he said, came from the N.C. Department of Corrections and the inmates who dedicated themselves to finishing the project. A plaque will be installed, he said, acknowledging their efforts in providing the labor the planners could not possibly have paid for.
Shortly thereafter, the market was open for business, with about 15 vendors present, and basking in the shade, offering some of the best produce in the county.
The growing season this year, many agreed, had been good – far more rain than last year and no devastating early spring storms or freezes.
John Whittemore, of Marion, was shopping the market for squash, zucchini and cucumbers. He said the selection and prices were very good.
Toni Atmore of Ol' Turtle Farm in Sugar Hill was a regular vendor at the market last year, and was back for the opening day of the 2009 market season.
Business was off to a good start she said, and shoppers were lining up, so the prospects were good for a great year.
The market is located in the city parking lot at the intersection of West Henderson and Logan streets. It will be open from 3 to 6 p.m. each Tuesday for the remainder of the growing season. Thanks to the new shelter, it will be open rain or shine.