Laying Down Roots: The Memphis Farmers Market

- by Jenifer Prather

Seven years ago Sharon Leicham made an immense decision that would impact the rest of her life as well as the lives of the people of Memphis. This decision turned out to be an adventure, a move from Northern California to Memphis, Tennessee, to start a new life. The journey continues today, and Leicham’s impact on the Memphis community is just as fruitful as ever.

Leicham has a love and respect for the history of Memphis and the Mississippi River. “Growing up I heard songs about the river, saw movies and read books about it,” she says. “I thought it was magical. Now I’m actually living close to it and it is magical!”

When Leicham moved to Memphis she spent the first two years focusing on her work in California as a freelance writer and editor for a California-based publication and as co-chair for the Outdoor Industry Women’s Council. This left little time for exploring her new Memphis home. When she decided to finally separate her ties with California, she found work with the South Main Association, an organization which helped establish her commitment to the Downtown Memphis community. She served as secretary and two terms as president.

“My involvement in the South Main Association gave me important insights into community building,” she says. “My task was to build the efficacy of the South Main Arts community, promote its businesses and establish it as a sustainable neighborhood.”

During her terms as president, Leicham promoted what she knew best as a child -community, fresh produce and the love of the great outdoors. This focus became the visionary grounds which lay the foundation for the Memphis Farmers Market.

Leicham’s roots originate in the country’s most agriculturally productive state, California. Some of her most fond childhood memories are from growing up in the San Joaquin Valley where she learned the value of the earth and its ties to the community. One of her favorite memories is running outback to the tomato field to eat freshly picked tomatoes off the vine in the warm summer sun. A gift of California poppy seeds she received from a gas station might have solidified her love of the outdoors.

“I took that bag of seeds and planted them in the front yard,” she says. “I watched and watered them every day and finally they bloomed. That was such a delight. I’ve had gardens ever since.”

These memories are what prompted Leicham to join with others to promote the Memphis Farmers Market to the Center City Commission. Leicham now serves as vice-chair of the Memphis Farmers Market where she directs marketing and public relations. The MFM initiative was a year in the making, and as with any business, there were certain obstacles to overcome.

“Some of the vendors did not feel safe coming to the Downtown area; so I invited them to come and look at the market site,” Leicham says. “Once they saw how Downtown Memphis has changed and developed, they agreed to come.”

After a year of planning, the Memphis Farmers Market finally opened on Saturday, May 13, 2006 with 20 vendors. “Opening Day was the culmination of all our hard work,” she says. “As people streamed into the market, we knew it would be a success and an important addition to Downtown Memphis.”

Currently the MFM board is working on bringing in a wide array of vendors and entertainers. By bringing in more vendors, competition is accelerated, ensuring better price and variety of products for the customers. Specifically, the MFM is working on finding vendors specializing in eggs, chicken, seafood and dairy. The Health Department remains a consultant during this time to ensure that safety comes first when offering these types of goods. There are also plans to add an extra market day.

For Leicham and many others, the Memphis Farmers Market is more than an organization; it is a physical expression of community that succeeds due to its diversity. The market is a lifestyle shared by people from many varied backgrounds with a passion for purity and simplicity.

“When people visit the market, we want them to leave with a feeling of being connected, not only to the community, but also to a healthier lifestyle,” Leicham says.

Local restaurants are participating in this promotion of community and health. Restaurant Ciao Bella has begun to create and highlight dishes featuring Memphis Farmers Market produce. Robert Hayes Catering Services, Chef Ben Smith of Tsunami and Michael Patrick of EP Delta Kitchen all stop by the MFM for the best picks of local produce for their nightly menus.

“Overall, we see a microcosm supporting itself,” Leicham says. “How better to sustain your community than by the power of support - physically, emotionally, socially, mentally and financially.”

The next time you find yourself in the downtown area on a Saturday between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m., make time to visit the Memphis Farmers Market. If you see a white-headed woman, about 5 feet 2 inches tall, full of energy and a warm smile it is probably Leicham. Take a second to say hello and let her know what you think about the MFM. For more information and directions visit the website, www.memphisfarmersmarket.org.