Marking an impressive milestone, the Harr family is set to celebrate a century's worth of farming and selling locally grown produce at Soulard Farmers Market this weekend. A hundred years have carved out more than just stories; they have dug deep into the traditions and the earth of the Millstadt, Illinois, farm that has fed and fostered a relationship with customers who've become neighbors and friends. The community is encouraged to join the festivities tomorrow from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at stand #13-17 in the northeast wing of the market.
Bryan Harr, current caretaker of the Harr family's farming legacy, is a testament to the value of persistence in an industry that's seen a sharp decline in recent years. "The history of Harr Family Farms is rooted in the history of Soulard Farmers Market, and we’re proud to be partners with the market," Bryan told the City of St. Louis. While the 2022 Census of Agriculture reported 141,733 fewer farms than in 2017, attributing the drop to, among other things, a lack of succession, the Harr Family Farms continues to bear fruit with the involvement of its fourth generation.
The Harr family's journey is marked by tales of the founding Harrs crossing the Mississippi River by ferry boat, and in winter's grip, by horse-drawn wagon across the iced expanse to reach their customers. Such dedication cannot be understated and is a hallmark of the family's storied resilience. The once humble offering grew to include a full-service butcher shop as the Harr family's commitment to quality and freshness never wavered. This is a narrative of evolution and adaption, of holding firm to a tradition that feeds not only the belly but also the soul of the community it serves.
Advocates for the importance of local farms like the Harr family highlight the undeniable connection people have to their food sources and the hard work poured into every item on their stands. "These family farms are dedicated to bringing our customers the freshest, highest quality food and making it available in a place that offers a historic and unique shopping experience," remarked Bob Ray, Soulard market manager, as per the City of St. Louis news release.
