The "Global Market" Story

It was an ordinary day. My son Tad stopped by the house early this morning on his way home from work. Had a few things to pick up and also hit me with the big news that was on the front page of the local newspaper; "High honor for Central Market." Seems there is a global website, CNN GO, that is a global travel and lifestyle website of the Cable News Network. On the listing of the top 10 fresh markets in the world, Central Market in downtown Lancaster, PA was ranked #8. Wow! Central Market is a historic farmer's market located in Penn Square. It was established in 1730 and is the oldest, continuously-operated farmers market in the United States. Most of the market stands are held by food sellers, with merchants selling fresh fruits and produce, flowers, meats and cheeses, fish and seafood, baked goods and other foods. The first permanent building was erected in 1757 and the current building was built in 1889. It is brick with a hipped and gabled terra cotta roof, in the Romanesque Revival style and features twin towers measuring 72 feet tall. The interior structure has wooden pillars supportingthe roof with a grid of steel rod trusses. In 1972 it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The city-owned market fell between Singapore's Kreta Ayer Wet Market and the Marche Provencal which is located in Antibes, France. Only one other US market, The Union Square farmer's market in New York City, made the top 10 list. Years and years ago, my mom would push me from the 600 block of South Prince Street to market in a baby carriage when I was too young to walk. I can remember visiting both the central and the southern market at least one time a week to get fresh fruits and vegetables, especially in the summer months. After my kids were born I would do the same with them on market days. My wife often told me that her mom would force her to go to market with her and therefore stays away from the place unless it is absolutely necessary. I still love the place. Often would come home with fresh flowers for Carol or a sticky bun or "long john" for myself. Most days when I drop off my artwork at Strawberry & Co., which is located adjacent to the market building, I will walk through just to see if I can find any friends to talk with. One of the contributing factors to being on the top 10 list is the Amish. People flock to market to buy their fresh goods as well as just to see their straw hats and long black clothes. Matter-of-fact, I made a trip to market today just so I could snap a few pixs for this story. Picked up a box of tomatoes, corn on the cob, red beets and a peach pound cake. All from my favorite Amish lady. It was another extraordinary day in the life of an ordinary guy.

One of the many entrances to Lancaster's historic Central Market.

View of Central Market from the platform on the second level.

Willow Valley baked goods are sold at this Central Market stand.

Flowers for my honey!

Variety of cheeses line the aisle in the market.

Herbs and spices in Mason Jars. Lined up alphabetically.

Mr. Long and his famous Horseradish. Really smells good!