Humble Farmer’s Market offers community fresh choices
Monday, March 01, 2010
David Stuhlmiller
Every Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m., the Humble Farmer’s Market is the place to go for those wanting fresh vegetables, fruit, artisan bread, flowers, or an array of other items. The Lake Houston Area Chamber’s Beautification Committee hosts the market, rain or shine, at 800 E. Main St. in the First Methodist Church parking lot.
The Humble Farmer’s Market came into fruition as an idea from Scott and Stacy Simonson of Chez Nous restaurant located in Humble. The Simonson’s worked with Tom Cook, the Beautification Committee chairman, as well as other committee members since last February to bring their idea to life.
“Before the chamber took over coordinating the market in October, I started and managed the market to help educate people on the benefits of using fresh and organic ingredients like we use at Chez Nous,” Stacy Simonson said.
“Since we took over the Farmer’s Market in October of last year, we have seen the vendor list grow from four to nine steady participants, and we have space to accommodate up to 20 vendors,” said Market Manager Lois Bean. “We had about five dedicated vendors that braved the cold and sometimes snowy weather over the winter, and we really appreciate their commitment to this market.”
Atkinson Farms, who grow and sell farm fresh produce, is one of the market’s original members. Mike Atkinson, who has been farming all his life, is a third generation produce farmer. His grandfather started farming in Spring, Texas in 1929 and the farm has been in his family ever since. Atkinson’s provides fresh produce to local businesses and restaurants in addition to participating in several other farmer’s markets in the Houston area.
“We like coming to the Humble Farmer’s Market because it is held mid-week and it fits nicely into our busy schedule, while also being close to our farm,” Atkinson said.
Other items that are currently available at the market include: plants, free-range chicken eggs, specialty pickles, honey, beeswax candles and body products, and organic meats and cheeses.
Wendy and Kenny Reed of Reed Family Honey and Bee Wilde Beeswax candles and body products, come to the Humble Farmer’s Market from Montgomery, Texas. After leaving their traditional jobs 10 years ago, the Reeds have dedicated their hearts and souls to their 1,500 hives of bees. Their bees are in high demand by local and distant farmers who utilize bees to ensure pollination of their crops. The honey that is harvested after their bees are finished pollinating is used by local restaurants and sold in stores around Texas.
“I truly enjoy talking to people who come to the several farmer’s markets that we attend. We have seen an increase in people who want to know where their food is coming from and being able to talk to the people who actually operate the business is another reason why people enjoy shopping at farmer’s markets like this one,” Wendy Reed said.
“I enjoy coming to the farmer’s market to buy fresh fruit and vegetables from local farmers,” she said. “It is great to see more vendors here each time I come.”
To learn more about the Humble Farmer’s Market, or to get information about becoming a vendor, visit the Lake Houston Area Chamber Of Commerce Web site at: www.humbleareachamber.org, or contact the Chamber by calling 281-446-2128.
To get more information about Reed Family Honey and their products, call 936-449-4188 or visit www.beewilde.com.
For additional information about Atkinson’s Farm, call 281-353-3236 or visit their Web site at: www.atkinsonfarming.com.
Photos (from top to bottom):
Market Manager Lois Bean talks with Mike Atkinson of Atkinson’s Farms as he sets up produce.
Kingwood resident, Sarah Bull purchasing a bag of fresh artisan bread.
Mr. Neal of Neal’s Berry Farm educating customers about his plants.
Examples of the fresh vegetables and fruit sold at the Farmer’s Market.





