April 18 was a Thursday evening long-awaited in the Village of Ferrum. Months upon months, to be exact.

It wasn’t a particular holiday, memorial or remembrance day, or seasonal tradition of the locality, yet its significance still remained.

It was the reopening of the Ferrum Farmer’s Market– a warm, crisp evening, with the sun showering the community and its many members with its vibrant rays, as the hours of 3:00-7:00 marked the grand event.

Attendance was innumerable, as countless locals ventured across the lot to the 44 different vendors throughout the afternoon and evening.

Vendors were divided into three broad selections–growers, bakers, and makers–with each group contributing exactly what they may seem.

Tents of diverse crafts and trades composed the large, green-grassy property, filled with loaves of sourdough, baked goods, natural soaps and scents, floral decor, jewelry, woodworking, and innumerably more.

The faint scent of fresh barbecue swept the air as children emitted giggles and laughter from the bouncy house.

Overall, it was an opportunity for all to enjoy, thanks to the mass efforts of a few and Ferrum Forward. 

For all to enjoy best defines what everyone did.

Rachel Atkins, a local and vendor, was ecstatic to have found herself at the market once more following its recent, and temporary closing. She is known for her baked goods.

“I sell out almost every time,” she said cheerfully. “And it’s only the beginning now, but with this great weather and such a beautiful day, I cannot wait to see what the evening holds.”

Bob Pohlad, professor emeritus, agreed, praising Atkins’ baking as an iconic taste in the Ferrum community.

With members of the community crowding the property, it was impossible to dismiss the satisfaction of those who attended.

Rose Weaver, local, made the reopening of the market a priority.

“I couldn’t miss it,” she explained. “And it met every expectation–so many vendors, familiar faces, scrumptious and unique goods, all of it.”

Kitty Martin, local and Ferrum Forward Member, could not have been more pleased, either.

“It’s been a great turnout, and a great day so far!” she eagerly exclaimed. “We’ve had even more vendors than we anticipated, and it’s been a revolving door of smiles all day.”

Another Ferrum Forward member, Rebecca Saunders, agreed.

“The only problem we are having is that we do not have enough parking!” she said.

And a great problem to have, as she considered it.

All in all, the reopening was a success, for the community, the vendors, and everyone involved.

Even organizations, such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, were able to promote their worthy cause.

The best part — it all comes back next week. Every week, until the end of the summer, for that matter.

The Ferrum Farmer’s Market is open from 3:00 and 7:00 each Thursday.

For more information, visit Ferrum Forward’s online webpage.