Trolley Stop Market

Jill and Keith Forrester, the ever so imaginative and industrious farming couple who own Whitton Farms, have come up with plans for a new market in Downtown Memphis. They are building the market in the heart of the Downtown Medical Center to serve the Downtown workers and residents of the rapidly growing, revitalized urban area. The market will offer fresh, locally grown produce and flowers. Local cooks, bakers, and artisans will be making foods, artwork, and gift items. They plan to have fruits, grains, nuts, mushrooms, beef, poultry, pork, and fish. The market will be a pick-up point for CSA customers. CSA stands for “customer supported agriculture,” a concept that allows individuals to participate in the production of their own food. People who join a CSA pay a prescribed amount to the farmer in exchange for a portion of the harvest throughout the growing season. Typically, CSA members pick up a package weekly. The CSA concept is rapidly gaining acceptance by the public; many enjoy the variety of produce that becomes available with the changing season. For the farmer, the CSA offers crop payments early in the year, helping pay for fuel, seed, fertilizer, and other crop expenses. The CSA is an attempt to bring sustainability to family farms and other smaller scale farming operations.

Jill and Keith have been joined by an eager group of farmers, friends, and supporters in turning the spacious building into Downtown Memphis’ first market of its kind. They have plans for the business to host a number of events. There is a stage for programs and musical events, a large bar to serve smoothies, and a kitchen to prepare meals from locally grown foods. The market is on the Madison Avenue trolley line which connects to the Main Street line just blocks away. The trolley stops right at the door. Peace Bee Farm pollinates produce at Whitton Farms. We will bring honey from their flowers to the Trolley Stop Market. Visit http://whittonfarms.blogspot.com/.
--Richard