Abingdon: A Brief History
While this article is primarily about the Abingdon Farmers Market, we can’t discuss it without introducing the reader to Abingdon, Virginia.
Founded as Black’s Fort in 1774 and officially named Abingdon in 1778, its strategic location along the Great Valley Road made it a vital hub for pioneers. The town played an important role during the Revolutionary War, serving as a meeting spot for the ‘Overmountain Men,’ a group of frontiersmen from western Virginia. This gathering took place before their pivotal Battle of Kings Mountain, which is often regarded as a turning point in the Southern campaign of the war.
In the 20th century, Abingdon gained cultural significance with the founding of the Barter Theatre in 1933, which is recognized as America’s longest-running professional repertory theatre. During the Great Depression, actors famously exchanged performances for goods there. Visit historic sites like the Abingdon Muster Grounds and the Martha Washington Inn & Spa, and enjoy the art scene at the William King Museum of Art and Historic Downtown Abingdon, which features charming shops, galleries, and restaurants, such as The Tavern. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the Virginia Creeper Trail. This 34-mile multi-use trail winds through the scenic countryside, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Abingdon is a charming city, surrounded by farms and rural areas, so there is never a shortage of fresh, locally grown produce and meats to support a thriving Farmers Market.
The Abingdon Farmers Market
We met David McLeish, the Market Manager for Abingdon Farmers’ Market. He was very knowledgeable about the market’s history and operations. He shared the fascinating history of the market and its current location. Nestled in the heart of Southwest Virginia, the Abingdon Farmers Market has become a beloved community gathering spot, connecting locals and visitors with fresh, local produce from nearby farms and the creativity of regional artisans. More than just a place to buy fresh food, it’s a lively spot celebrated for its charm and wide variety of offerings. To say that the Abingdon Farmers Market is bustling is an understatement.
From Humble Beginnings to a Permanent Home
The Abingdon Farmers Market started in 2001 when a group of vendors, guided by Appalachian Sustainable Development, came together to organize the first event. They requested to use the Abingdon City property to host the market. Initially, the market was held in the parking lot next to the Fields-Penn House, but they quickly outgrew that space. For several years, the vendors gathered at the Latture Field parking lot.
The idea of establishing a permanent facility for the market gained momentum, with strong support from the Town of Abingdon, Washington County, and the Tobacco Indemnification Commission. Driven by a community passion for fresh, local produce, the market’s collaborative efforts culminated in a dedicated, covered pavilion. By mid-2007, the market proudly opened its current, purpose-built location, significantly boosting its growth and capacity to serve more vendors and shoppers.
A notable milestone in its history was becoming the first farmers market in Virginia to accept SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits in 2009. This move, demonstrating the market’s commitment to accessibility and support for all community members, marked a significant step toward making fresh, local produce accessible to everyone.
Current Location and Offerings
Today, the Abingdon Farmers Market is located at the corner of Remsburg Drive and Cummings Street in Abingdon, VA. Its physical address is usually listed as 100 Remsburg Drive, Abingdon, VA 24210. This permanent pavilion offers a welcoming and well-organized space for both vendors and shoppers.
The market operates year-round, making seasonal adjustments to its schedule.
Even in the off-season, the market stays active, with a “Holiday Market” starting in November and continuing through December, often opening on the third Saturday of each month from January to March.
Visitors at the Abingdon Farmers Market will discover a wide selection of locally crafted products. Including:
Fresh Produce: A large selection of fruits and vegetables, including many organic choices.
Meats and dairy: Grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb, pork, turkey, eggs, goat cheese, and milk.
Artisan Foods: Baked goods, bread, honey, jams, preserves, salsas, pickles, and even locally roasted coffee.
Plants and Flowers: Fresh potted herbs, bedding plants, and beautiful, fresh-cut flowers.
Crafts and Specialty Items: Handmade artisan crafts, soaps, candles, wool products from local alpaca and sheep farms, and more.
The Abingdon Farmers Market is consistently praised for its friendly atmosphere, high-quality goods, and commitment to supporting local farmers and producers. It has been recognized as a top market in Southwest Virginia. It has even been called “The Best Small-Town Market in America,” highlighting its lasting charm and vital role in the Abingdon community.
Farmers and Vendors
Washington County, VA Master Gardeners
The first people we met at the Abingdon Farmers Market were the Washington County, VA, Master Gardeners: Susan Howard, Cheryl Sams, and Joanne Stanley. The Washington County, VA, Master Gardeners are dedicated volunteer educators who provide valuable horticultural resources to residents of Washington County, Smyth County, and the City of Bristol, VA, as well as those in Tennessee.
Based on science and in partnership with the Virginia Cooperative Extension (a collaboration between Virginia Tech and Virginia State University), their goal is to promote eco-friendly gardening practices and sustainable landscape management. They offer free expertise on many topics, including tree care, native plants, flower and vegetable gardening, pest and disease identification, and soil health.
They support the community through various channels, including farmers’ markets, email consultations via their “Ask a Master Gardener” program, and public events. These passionate volunteers participate in numerous community projects, utilizing their training to make a tangible impact.
One important annual event is the Abingdon Garden Faire. This popular event welcomes spring with vendors, educational activities, and workshops, with the proceeds benefiting scholarships and over thirty community programs. Master Gardeners also maintain demonstration gardens, lead educational workshops, and offer gardening advice at local events, showcasing their dedication to promoting science-based, sustainable gardening practices for all Virginians.
To become a Master Gardener, individuals undergo extensive training (usually 50 hours of classroom instruction) and contribute at least 50 volunteer hours to community service projects.
Happy Feet Homestead
Toni Darrington told us she started Happy Feet Homestead two years ago. I asked her what inspired her to open a bakery that offers a wide range of sourdough breads. She said she never planned to start a business and that she hated baking, but when she got a stand mixer, she began baking bread. Then someone gave her some sourdough starter, and that led her to where she is today.
At the market, she offered samples of several of her sourdoughs to guests. She had a plain, rosemary, and garlic country loaf, whole wheat, cheese pizza with sun-dried tomatoes, and jalapeño cheddar focaccia. Everything she had was delicious, but that jalapeño cheddar focaccia was absolutely out of this world.
Tumbling Creek Cider Company
We ran into Allison Cernoch from Tumbling Creek Cider Company, who proudly shared details about their ciders and taproom in Abingdon.
Tumbling Creek Cider Company, founded in 2018 by four passionate partners, embodies a commitment to crafting high-quality hard ciders from the rich resources of Southwest Virginia. Their approach combines traditional cider-making techniques with modern methods, with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients. All apples are pressed in-house at their Kelly Ridge Farm in Meadowview and fermented on-site, ensuring a “tree to glass” process that showcases the unique botanical diversity of the Appalachian region.
In addition to their production facility in Meadowview, Tumbling Creek Cider Company operates a welcoming taproom at 238 West Main Street in Abingdon, VA. This beautifully restored building, once a bank, provides a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of their handcrafted ciders, from dry to semi-sweet, including popular choices like “Moonshot” and “Hellbender Hopped”. The taproom also hosts events such as trivia nights, open mic nights, and live music, making it a lively community spot that celebrates local craftsmanship and Appalachian flavors.
White Birch Food and Juice
Next, we met Katlyn Almany of White Birch Food and Juice in Abingdon, VA. She told us that White Birch started in 2014 and was originally just a juice and vegan food spot, but has since grown. White Birch Food & Juice is a lively, health-focused place in Abingdon, Virginia, known as the town’s first and only cold-pressed juice and craft smoothie bar.
Located in a beautifully renovated historic building at 170 E Main Street, White Birch is committed to offering tasty, nutritious options with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Along with their signature cold-pressed juices and smoothies, they serve a full breakfast and lunch menu, and even stay open on Friday nights for dinner, offering wine, beer, and cold-pressed cocktails.
Their dedication to fresh, made-from-scratch food and a welcoming atmosphere has made them a favorite among locals and visitors alike who seek healthy, flavorful meals.
Rete’s Creations
Rete’s Creations, led by certified pastry chef Marguerite “Rete” Abril, offers a delightful selection of baked goods and confections in Abingdon, VA, with a focus on various fudge and brownies. She provides options for non-dairy and gluten-free diets.
In addition to her culinary skills, Rete is an accomplished fiber artist, creating crocheted items such as clothing, home decor, dolls, and sculptures to bring the beauty of nature into people’s homes through her creative designs.
Her delicious treats are available at the Abingdon Farmers’ Market and through her Etsy shop, which also features her unique, handcrafted crocheted pieces.
Goshen Homestead
We met Dwayne McIntyre and his daughter, Rachel, selling the meats they produce on Goshen Farmstead in Elk Garden, VA, and they were fascinating.
As a farming and travel journalist, I’ve seen my share of innovative agricultural methods. Still, Goshen Homestead in Elk Garden, Virginia, truly stands out. This isn’t just a farm; it’s a testament to the power of “Biblically Principled Sustainability,” a philosophy that guides every decision made by owners Dwayne and Stacey McIntyre.
In 2019, the McIntyres, motivated by a desire to raise their children on wholesome food, took a leap of faith. They purchased this 150-acre property, once a Devonshire beef cattle farm, and transformed it into a vibrant, chemical-free sanctuary. You won’t find any synthetic inputs here; instead, they work with nature, caring for their land and animals to produce food that’s not only healthy but truly good.
What makes Goshen Homestead so special? For starters, their Grade A “Micro” Dairy is outstanding. It’s the heart of their farm, producing rich, 100% grass-fed dairy products like creamline milk, Greek-style yogurt, and even chocolate milk for their “Herdshare” owners. Beyond dairy, they offer a wide selection: grass-finished beef, pasture-raised chicken, free-range eggs, and heritage turkeys. But it doesn’t stop there! They also create organic and non-GMO ferments, and you can find ancient grains, natural sugars, and freshly baked bread—all supporting a truly local food system.
Much of their tasty harvest is pre-sold through a subscription service, connecting them directly with families eager for quality, sustainably produced food. Goshen Homestead isn’t just about farming; it’s about a way of life, a dedication to wholesome food, and a strong connection to the land.
Pop’s Veggie Basket
For those looking for fresh, local produce in Southwest Virginia, Pop’s Veggie Basket is a name to remember, with stores in Rural Retreat and as a leading vendor at the Abingdon Farmers’ Market. Operated by Wilmer and Esther Zook, this business is renowned for supplying hydroponic lettuce, tomatoes, and sweet corn, thereby ensuring a consistent and high-quality supply of vegetables. Beyond their fresh produce, they also offer a delightful selection of eight flavors of glazed fried pies, giving an authentic taste of Appalachian tradition. Although they may not have a dedicated farmstand at a specific Rural Retreat address, their connection to the Abingdon Farmers Market and their general location in Rural Retreat make them a vital part of the local food network, offering delicious and sustainably grown options to the community.
River Valley Farm
Nestled on 12 acres just north of Abingdon, Virginia, River Valley Farm exemplifies a dedication to sustainable farming, passionately managed by David King and his family for over twenty years. King, who grew up on a dairy and produce farm, brings decades of agricultural experience to this scenic property along the North Fork Holston River. He employs natural growing methods, including cover cropping, the use of natural fertilizers, and composting, to produce a diverse range of organic vegetables, fresh herbs, and berries.
From staple vegetables like kale, lettuce, and tomatoes to specialty items and even flowers, River Valley Farm offers a diverse range of harvests. You can find their abundant produce at the Abingdon Farmers Market, where they are a regular vendor. They also run a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, directly connecting customers with their fresh, farm-grown products.
River Mountain Farms
Nestled on 200 acres of scenic mountain land in Lebanon, Virginia, River Mountain Farms is the passion project of Dave and Cathy Cheek, who are dedicated to raising Heirloom Piedmontese cattle. This family farm specializes in producing naturally lean, tender, and flavorful beef, showcasing the unique qualities of the Piedmontese breed. The Cheeks are thorough in their methods, even supplementing their cattle with special vitamins and minerals before harvest to ensure the highest quality product. Their commitment to quality extends to processing, with their meat individually packaged and flash-frozen for easy meal prep. While their farm isn’t open to visitors, their premium beef can often be purchased through “truckload specials” and directly from their website, demonstrating their dedication to providing exceptional, locally raised meat to their customers.
Dreamland Alpacas
In the charming countryside of Meadowview, Virginia, you’ll find Dreamland Alpacas, a lovely farm at 13050 Bell Lane that offers more than just a glimpse into the world of these adorable animals. Owned and operated by David and Debbie McLeish, this active farm welcomes visitors from Friday through Sunday, between 2 PM and 6 PM. It invites them to meet their friendly alpacas and learn about their history and gentle nature. In addition to the charming farm tours, Dreamland Alpacas transforms luxurious alpaca fiber into a wide range of high-quality products. Their farm store and presence at the Abingdon Farmers Market feature everything from raw fiber and yarn to a growing selection of finished products like soft, warm, and hypoallergenic socks, hats, gloves, scarves, and even custom-made items. The farm also offers boarding, breeding, and birthing services, demonstrating its comprehensive dedication to alpaca husbandry.
TNT Farm and Greenhouse
TNT Farm and Greenhouse, situated in Meadowview, VA, is a “simple, radical, mini-farm” run by Tamara McNaughton and Tony Barrett, who have been farming together since 2012. The farm was Certified Organic from 2012 to 2020 and continues to practice farming in harmony with nature, focusing on ecological and biodynamic methods as well as regenerative practices. They specialize in heirloom varieties of vegetables and transplants, utilizing a quarter-acre field, high tunnels, and greenhouses to cultivate a diverse range of crops, including greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, squash, garlic, cauliflower, beets, and potted plants. TNT Farm and Greenhouse sells their produce and plants at the Abingdon Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays and supplies local restaurants. Tamara McNaughton, a greenhouse nursery grower with a background in applied anthropology and sustainable development, has extensive experience consulting for farms and nurseries, bringing a wealth of knowledge to their operation.
Red Tail Grove
Red Tail Grove, a veteran-owned, 10-acre regenerative farm near Abingdon, VA, is passionately managed by Trevor Hansard, who emphasizes intensive grazing, no-till gardening, and permaculture-based land practices. Committed to land conservation and animal welfare, Red Tail Grove aims to provide the local community with high-quality meat, eggs, and produce. They focus on improving soil health and fertility, increasing pasture density and diversity, and reducing off-farm inputs by leveraging the natural tendencies of plants and animals. Their farming methods strictly avoid the use of herbicides, pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics, and chemical fertilizers, instead relying on intensive pasture management, organic chicken feed, and natural fertilizers. Visitors can often buy products directly from the farm or through local stores. The farm has also been showcased in regional farm tours and culinary shows.
Whitesides Sweet Corn
Whiteside Sweet Corn, located in Southwest Virginia, is well known for its long sweet corn season, which highlights owner Jonathan Whiteside’s skill in specialized farming methods. By using techniques like planting in black plastic with canvas covers to warm the soil and carefully scheduling staggered plantings, Whiteside makes sure to have fresh sweet corn available throughout the summer, often starting as early as mid-June. This focus on reliable supply, consistent locations, and regular hours for customers has earned a loyal customer base, making Whiteside Sweet Corn a favored local spot in the Abingdon area.
Bohicket Apothecary
Bohicket Apothecary, based in Abingdon, VA, is a handmade bath and body company that specializes in small-batch formulas, offering a wide variety of natural and indulgent products. Owner Treva, who started making soaps and candles in 2005, brings a culinary background from Johnson & Wales University to her creative process, which is reflected in the range of products. Customers can find handmade soy candles, laundry detergent, body lotion, salt and sugar scrubs, whipped shea butter, natural deodorant, and other bath and body essentials, all crafted with a focus on quality and natural ingredients. Bohicket Apothecary regularly vendors at the Abingdon Farmers Market and also operates an online store, making their unique, handcrafted self-care items accessible to everyone.
Grandview Farm
Grandview Farm is recognized for its commitment to organic farming practices. They grow a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, including garlic, peas, tomatoes, butternut squash, and blueberries. In addition to produce, the farm also raises livestock, with sheep that are pasture-raised without antibiotics or hormones, providing lamb for breeding, cuts of meat, and various wool products like yarn, fleeces, and sheepskins.
This commitment to sustainable and ethical farming practices makes Grandview Farm a valuable part of the local food scene and a symbol of the region’s lasting connection to the land.
In addition to its agricultural output, Grandview Farm engages with the community through events and its presence at the Abingdon Farmers Market. Their dedication to offering high-quality, locally grown food and fiber products helps consumers connect directly with their food source.
The farm also adopts a holistic approach to agriculture, prioritizing the well-being of animals and the health of the land. Through ongoing operations and community involvement, Grandview Farm not only provides fresh products but also helps preserve the farming heritage of the Abingdon area, serving as a model for sustainable agriculture in the 21st century.
Real Wood Designs
John O’Quinn specializes in creating a variety of functional and attractive pieces for the home, including butcher block tables, cutting boards, Lazy Susans, and serving trays. His commitment to quality is evident in his choice of materials, as he only uses the finest hardwoods available, much of which is directly sourced from Virginia. This focus on local materials and craftsmanship highlights the “Real Wood” in his business name, emphasizing the natural and authentic beauty of his products.
Real Wood Designs is based in Rural Retreat, and John O’Quinn offers his products to the broader community, especially through his participation as a vendor at the Abingdon Farmers Market.
Beyond his standard offerings, he also takes custom orders for furniture, showcasing his versatility and ability to meet various customer needs. His chess sets are stunning. His presence at local markets not only provides a venue for his handcrafted goods but also allows him to connect directly with customers who value locally made, high-quality wooden items. Through O’Quinn’s passion and skill, Real Wood Designs helps preserve the rich tradition of woodworking in Southwest Virginia.
Old Rich Valley Farm
Old Rich Valley Farm in Saltville, Virginia, is a family-run operation committed to providing high-quality, pasture-raised meats. The farm practices sustainable management, making sure their animals—including beef cattle, pigs, and chickens—live in environments where they can thrive naturally. For instance, their chickens are moved daily to fresh grass in “Salatin-style shelters,” benefiting from fresh air and sunlight while helping to enrich the soil.
Similarly, their pigs are raised in wooded and brushy areas where they can display their natural rooting behaviors, aiding in land clearing while enjoying a varied diet supplemented with non-GMO feed. This natural farming method results in healthier animals, which produce tastier, more nutritious products.
The Campbells, the family behind Old Rich Valley Farm, actively connect with their community by making their products easy to access. They offer a range of beef, pork, and chicken options, including convenient choices like “Herd Share” meat subscriptions and bulk boxes, which help customers keep their freezers stocked with local, high-quality protein.
Beyond raw meats, Old Rich Valley Farm also features a state-inspected kitchen where they prepare smoked meats and nutritious bone broth, offering convenient “heat and eat” meal options. The farm actively participates in local farmers’ markets, providing a platform for direct interaction with the community and showcasing its commitment to connecting with consumers who value knowing the source of their food and supporting local agriculture. Their online order system further enhances this direct connection, enabling customers to access their high-quality, locally sourced products easily.