EDENTON, N.C. – What started as an old gas station in a lot filled with rocks, dirt, and a little grass has blossomed into a beautiful community gathering space, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of donors throughout the Edenton area.
The Edenton Farmers Market celebrated the completion of its new pavilions on Saturday, October 18, during Farmers Market Community Appreciation Day.
The celebration featured the unveiling of Pavilion Supporter Plaques, recognizing the community members, businesses, and anonymous donors who made the project possible. The Town of Edenton and Edenton Chamber of Commerce assisted with the ceremony.
“The new pavilion construction marks an incredible transformation — what began as rocks and dirt with a little grass has now become a beautiful, inviting space featuring fresh lush sod in the yard, concrete pads under the pavilions, and refreshed gravel in the drive,” said Market Board President Mary Wolfe. “Once an uncovered area, it now showcases stunning cedar pavilions, a true reflection of progress, collaboration, and community pride.”
A Love Story in Cedar
Among the most touching dedications was the Janet Harding Pavilion, donated by 97-year-old Flint Harding Jr. in memory of his beloved wife. The pavilion holds special significance – it’s where the couple would sit together at a picnic table every Saturday, buying brownies from vendor Donna and flowers from Amy.
“She loved coming to the market every Saturday, and if she was going to be late, she would call me to make sure that they would save her stuff,” Wolfe recalled. “She was such a lovely and delightful person, and they were so cute as a button. They shared so many years of love together. It’s just such a love story and sweet.”
Janet Harding passed away last year, but her presence lives on in the pavilion that bears her name.
Community Effort
The pavilions along Gale Street have been collectively named the Community Pavilions to recognize everyone who contributed to the project. As a nonprofit volunteer organization, the Edenton Farmers Market completed the entire construction debt-free through community donations.
Individual recognition plaques were placed on columns throughout the pavilions, honoring both business and individual donors. Several anonymous donors also made significant contributions to the project.
The market has become as much of a draw as other icons that grace the town, featuring vendors selling fresh local produce, meats, baked goods, and other locally-made items from area artisans.
“We extend our sincere appreciation for your steadfast support and warmly encourage you to invite your friends and family to share in this special celebration,” said Wolfe.
The success of the market and the completion of the pavilions can be directly attributed to the diligence, focus, and hard work of Wolfe, the market board, and dedicated volunteers who continue to nurture this vital community resource.
The Edenton Farmers Market is located at 200 North Broad Street in Edenton and is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. During the winter months of January, February, and March, market hours are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For information, visit www.edentonfarmersmarket.org or email edentonfarmersmarket@gmail.com.
