Welcome to Howe Family Farms, a vibrant and exciting agricultural venture in the heart of Elgin County. The Howe brothers expertly operate this 5th generation farm - Ryan, Rick, and Kevin, blending tradition with innovation to create a truly extraordinary experience.

The Howe family's farming heritage dates back to the late 1800s, and their dedication to the land has been passed down through generations. As stewards of the farm, they have embraced modern farming practices while staying true to the crops cultivated by their ancestors. 

The brothers understand pollinators' vital role in the ecosystem and eagerly embrace initiatives to support their well-being. Each year, the farm's vibrant garden comes alive with a kaleidoscope of pollinator-friendly flowers, creating a buzzing haven for butterflies and bees. In fact, they've even participated in groundbreaking research programs, including tagging monarch butterflies to track migration patterns. Acts like this showcase their love for nature and their dedication to environmental sustainability.

Howe Family Farms stands as a beacon of fresh, local produce. They have everything from sweet strawberries to mouthwatering watermelons and vibrant raspberries to pumpkins and squash!

But Howe Family Farms is more than just a farm. It's a hub of community spirit and connection. The brothers have transformed their humble roadside stand into two bustling farm markets at 11143 Highbury Ave, St. Thomas, and 48556 John Wise Line in Aylmer, ensuring that the surrounding communities have easy access to their products. And let's not forget the infectious energy of the Horton Farmers' Market, "Every year, we are absolutely blown away by the support we receive from our community. Whether they visit our market, spend time Saturday mornings at the Horton Market, send us an encouraging message, leave us a review, or share something delicious from the market with a friend - we appreciate it!"

Their newest crop, raspberries, takes center stage this year. "Growing raspberries is newer to us, and we are so excited to share this year's crop with you! We've been trailing and growing more each year, and this year will be the most we've grown to date. It's a big learning curve trying something new, and we can't wait to hear what everyone thinks of them". 

Among their offerings, strawberries hold a special place in the hearts of the Howe brothers. "At Howe's, we take pride in everything we do, but strawberries are our #1. We have been growing them for over 100 years. Now we can offer our customers the finest-tasting strawberries from late May to early November. Throughout the summer, different varieties of berries offer different flavour profiles."

When making the most of their produce, the Howe brothers have a few tips and tricks up their sleeves. Take, for example, their beloved sweet corn. "We find fresh sweet corn is so flavourful it needs nothing (not even butter or salt!!); our favourite is keeping the husks on and roasting it over the fire. Then, we make sure to freeze (quick blanch, cut off the cob, freeze) for the winter! Nothing beats the winter blues like pulling out a bag of flavourful local corn from the freezer and making some creamy corn salsa for tacos in the wintertime!"

Above all, Howe's Family Farm cherishes the profound support they receive from the community year after year. The joy of interacting with individuals who share their passion for quality, flavour, and sustainable farming practices is a constant source of inspiration. Whether it's a visit to the bustling farm markets, a vibrant morning at the Horton Farmers' Market, or the heartfelt messages and reviews received, the brothers are deeply grateful for their community's unwavering encouragement and connection.

So immerse yourself in Howe's Family Farm, where tradition meets innovation. Your taste buds will thank you, and your connection to the land will grow stronger with each bite. 

​The Horton Farmers' Market is a beautiful place for local artisans, farmers and vendors to come together and share their hard work with the St. Thomas community. With so many unique and fascinating vendors and products, the Market always has something new to enjoy. From expertly grown fresh produce to handmade jewellery and crafts, each vendor brings something new. 

If becoming a vendor and part of the Horton Farmers' Market community sounds exciting, this article will briefly outline information about becoming a vendor, what to expect, and how to make the most of your time at Horton. 

If you're curious about what being part of the Market entails, you can expect a sense of community. Several vendors like Amelia of Wayward Creations exclaim how the sense of community and support brings them back. Sharon of Creations by Sharon states that she loves the atmosphere that the Market brings, having made several acquaintances and friends with other vendors like her. Through the years, great friendships have begun from the Market, uniting people from all walks of life and different careers and interests. 

To begin, the Horton Market is a producer-based market that draws vendors from within a 60km radius to keep things fresh and local. This also means that the available produce is seasonal as our farm vendors' products grow with the season. Some vendors are with us all season long, and others pop in and out as their growing seasons allow. For our non-farm vendors, the producer moniker still applies. While they may not be growing food, items sold must be goods primarily produced by the seller; no resale goods here.

Within the Market Vendor Rules and Regulations, vendors follow a secondary guideline when deciding what to sell: "Don't sell anything you wouldn't want to buy."  This concept is simple, but it supports conscientious choices and consistently highlights high-quality goods on market day. Some non-food options for selling can include homemade items such as handmade clothing and accessories, decor and home care items. Think of how wide of an audience can use your item... A good example is Jancat Art; many people love cats and all things cute. Not only does she produce many different designs, but also different products. From stickers to hats, shirts to pins, bags and more, her products can be used by everyone!

It's also important that you are located within the Elgin County area. Our Market is committed to showcasing and providing local vendors, which in the regulations is defined as products and producers from Elgin County or within a 60km radius of the market location, occasionally an exception is made for certain produce items to increase available variety while maintaining a focus on Ontario produce. 

Vendors pay their fees if accepted under the application process. With over a dozen options of spaces available, both indoor and outdoor, the Market adheres to fitting a vendor and their products' needs. 

Most importantly, ask questions. Suppose something seems unclear to you, or you are curious. In that case, asking questions is critical to a great experience with the Horton Farmers' Market. The market staff is here to help in any way we can. You can find vendor, busker and volunteer information on the Horton Farmers' Market website. 

As we get farther into the market season, spaces for the current season are minimal. But announcements will come soon regarding future opportunities - so stay tuned!

​Near Port Stanley, Ontario, Gully Ridge Farms is found! Greg and Julie, their two children, and faithful canine companions, Willow and Mabel, embarked on a journey back to their roots in 2016. Driven by a shared desire to reconnect with the land and their community, they set out to establish a family business dedicated to cultivating fresh local food that would delight the taste buds of their surrounding communities.

At Gully Ridge Farms, their passion flourished, and they currently tend to three acres of Ontario's finest garlic, with dreams as vast as their fields to expand their offerings in the years to come. But what sets this farm apart is their innovative approach to preserving their precious garlic. They transform the bulbs into a finely granulated powder through a meticulous process of dehydration, ensuring their product's longevity without compromising on flavour.

Gully Ridge Farms infuses its garlic powder with a delightful twist of flavour and spice by introducing dehydrated Ontario peppers into the mix. And for those seeking the ultimate convenience, they also offer minced garlic, expertly blended with love and oil, to add a burst of flavour to their customers' busy lives.

Along their journey, Greg and Julie learned a valuable lesson – the tremendous amount of love and hard work required to bring a business to life. They discovered firsthand the unpredictable nature of Mother Earth, who held the key to their harvest's success, even if it occasionally meant getting stuck in muddy fields. But through it all, their unwavering passion and dedication fueled their growth, and they emerged stronger, ready to share their abundance with the world.

Gully Ridge Farms revels in the friendly atmosphere at Horton, "We love the feeling of working with a family community. Our customers bring us joy. It is always touching when they return and give us positive feedback on our product". It's a heartwarming experience to witness the smiles of satisfaction and the returning faces eager to taste the fruits of their labour once more.

​Gully Ridge Farms has a surprise for all the eager shoppers this year. Drumroll, please! They are planning to unveil another flavour of garlic powder. So, keep your taste buds primed and your senses on high alert because something extraordinary is about to hit the culinary scene.

When asked about Gully Ridge Farms ' favourite ingredient, Julie indicates the minced garlic and the renowned powder line steal the show. Customers can't contain their excitement and appreciation for the convenience and flavour these products bring to their home-cooked meals. In a fast-paced world, Gully Ridge Farms is on a mission to make life easier, one delicious garlic-infused dish at a time, and witnessing the smiles on their customers' faces makes it all worthwhile.

Now, let's indulge in some flavourful secrets! Gully Ridge Farms' products boast a robust and aromatic garlic essence. For those seeking an extra punch of garlicky goodness, add their powders at the end of your cooking ventures. Whether it's pasta, stir-fries, or sauces, prepare to have your taste buds dance with delight. And for a spicy twist, "add jalapeño garlic powder to your eggs in the morning," igniting your day with flavourful energy.

Brace yourselves for a crowd-pleasing sensation – garlic powder bread. Of course, unless you're feeling adventurous in your culinary escapades, embrace roasted garlic bulbs spread on a fresh, crusty baguette. The possibilities are endless, and Gully Ridge Farms invites you to explore the realm of roasted garlic with their delightful recipes, conveniently available on their website.

Gully Ridge Farms extends its heartfelt gratitude, "Thank you to all our customers." Your unwavering support and passion for their products inspire them to keep growing, innovating, and spreading the joy of garlic far and wide. So, dear food enthusiasts, let Gully Ridge Farms transport you to a world where the love for nature, community, and incredible flavours intertwine in a symphony of taste.

The Horton Farmers' Market is a beautiful place to find produce, plants and pastries. But what if you're in search of something long-lasting? A gift or souvenir, perhaps? Luckily for you, the Market offers the opportunity to shop with handmade artisan vendors too, and we've got convenient access to an entire downtown of boutiques, shops and more just a short distance away!

If you are looking for adorable little keychains, stickers and textiles, Jancat Art is a must-see! With an assortment of cute mugs, embroidered clothing and pins, all donning her beautiful designs of flowers, little critters and more, her work will brighten your day, especially if you are a cat lover or kawaii fan!

Interested in jewellery? Wayward Creations has a beautiful assortment of earrings, necklaces and more, all handmade and one-of-a-kind! Their unique designs are sure to captivate your visit to the Market! 

​Downtown St. Thomas has you covered if you are still searching for afternoon shopping! Myrtle is a local go-to for everything women's apparel. From jewellery to jumpsuits and all the latest fashion, you'll be ready to explore St. Thomas in style. 

Crocker's is the place for you if you're more interested in an array of local vendors, products and merchandise in one location! Crocker's holds multiple local vendors and their merchandise in one location, acting as an indoor mini-market. It's the perfect place to find something for a friend, or even yourself, from beauty care to crafts and decor! 

​You may have brought your four-legged friend with you to the Market! The outdoor pavilions are dog-friendly, allowing customers to browse with their pups! Want to reward their good behaviour? Stop into Oh My Fur and Whiskers pet supply store at 257 Talbot for your companion's needs! Their large selection of pet foods, toys and accessories is a dream come true for man's best friend and feline alike!

If you're seeking a new style, try Hush Hair Boutique and Hush for Men. Located next door to each other, these salons will have you pampered and trimmed and have everyone looking their best. You'll be ready to hit the town with services including hair care, nail care, facials and more! 
 
With so many innovative retail options downtown, you'll be sure to feel good knowing your support goes straight to the owners, which feeds right back into our local economy, allowing our city to grow and prosper! 
​
On your next visit to the Market, take some time to revisit or discover some local businesses in our downtown! You'll be surprised by what you find, as we've only shared a small sample! 

Happy Shopping!

​Get ready to indulge in a bubbly tale of skincare bliss with Joy Soap Co.! This family-run wonderland of organic delights sprouted from a quest to heal dry skin and eczema. Frustrated by the lack of affordable options,  Marisa Kohler dove headfirst into soap-making research. After some sudsy experiments and a dash of magic, a recipe emerged—skin-soothing, bubble-filled goodness that would make anyone swoon.

With cheers from friends and family, Joy Soap Co. set sail on its business adventure in April 2018. But this is no ordinary enterprise. It's a whole family affair! Husband Jason and the three Kohler kids lend a helping hand, from packaging products to sales on the market scene. This partnership is running a business and raising entrepreneurs all at once. Talk about multitasking!

Joy Soap Co. isn't just about making folks feel fabulous. They're eco-warriors too. Their packaging game is on point with recyclable and compostable materials. No plastic here—Mother Earth approves! And to keep their goodies accessible, they keep prices as low as possible because everyone deserves a skincare treat that won't break the bank.

Oh, and did we mention the warm fuzzies? Joy Soap Co. has a heart of gold. Ten percent of their profits go to helping those in need, near and far. For Marisa and Jason, it's all about giving back and teaching their kids the joy of compassion. Pass the tissues—this story just got sweeter.

Lessons learned? Laughter is essential. When your lip balm melts in summer, you embrace the humour and make an announcement that leaves everyone smiling. And staying humble and teachable is the secret sauce for success and building customer relationships. Those relationships are built with speedy apologies and top-notch service. The small business community? They're the dream team—kind, supportive, and always there to lend a hand.

But let's not forget the star of the show—the Horton Farmers' Market! It's the place where magic happens. Get ready to meet your skincare soulmates, make new pals, and pet some adorable doggos along the way. Watch for exclusive market specials on soap galore and tantalizing combo sets. Trust us; you won't want to miss out!

So, what's the founder's favourite product? That's like asking a parent to pick their favourite child. It's an ever-changing affair, but for Marisa, the eye cream, Tutti Frutti lip balm, and Island Vanilla lotion and soap hold a special place in her heart. Although, she reserves the right to change her mind because variety is the spice of life!

Pro tip time! Want your soap to last longer? Cut that bar in half. Use one half now and save the other for later. It's like having a skincare stash that never runs out. And don't forget to snag a soap dish for your shower—they're affordable and make your soap happy.

So come to the market and introduce yourself to Joy Soap Co., where family love and organic goodness collide. Together, they'll make your skincare dreams come true, one lather at a time. 

​We've discussed the history surrounding our beloved Horton Farmers' Market over the past 140 years, but what about the history of the downtown we call home? Since its settlement in 1810, St. Thomas has expanded into a modern city and home to 42,000, with remnants of its history scattered throughout. 

If you're a local history buff, you will surely enjoy this walkthrough of St. Thomas' best downtown historic spots, with a first stop at the market. 

Continuing south down Manitoba, you'll arrive at Talbot Street, the city's heart. You'll notice the large, lengthwise building across the road from there- it's hard to miss. This is the Canada Southern Station or CASO Station. (pronounced kay-so.) Constructed between 1871-73, it was the largest of 31 railway stations built in Ontario throughout the 1870s. This station helped St. Thomas grow into the city it is today, gaining fame and attention through railway transportation. It currently holds several local businesses, an open area available to rent for events, and the North America Railway Hall of Fame, a small self-guided museum on the second floor open Monday-Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm.

​Just across the field, south of the CASO Station, lies a sizable building often overlooked or dismissed. This is the Elgin County Railway Museum! In its heyday, this rail shop held and maintained the rolling stock of railway vehicles that needed repairs. Today, it is a museum perfect for any train enthusiast. It currently houses the Hudson Steam Locomotive 5700,  one of only five owned by Canadian National to bear the 4-6-4 wheel pattern. 

​The next stop is the Railway City Tourism office, located a few blocks west of Manitoba Street on Talbot. The building is a 3/4 replica of the original L&PS Station, which manned the tracks you see outside, which were once part of the London and Port Stanley Rail (L&PS Rail). It was reconstructed on location in 2013 by the St. Thomas Elgin Homebuilders Association. Here, you can see artifacts loaned from the Elgin County Railway Museum, find events and things to do in the area, and purchase souvenirs. 

​This is a partial list of historical monuments within our city; the few pointed out act as starting points towards learning more about the past. As you go through St. Thomas and the Horton Farmers' Market, recollect the 200+ years of history surrounding you and those who lived, loved and lay in the city we call home. 

Historic Photos courtesy of Elgin County Archives

​Step into a world of turkey magic at the Turkey Shoppe, nestled in the heartland of poultry perfection. Since 1958, this family farm has been serving succulent turkey delights. In 1992, they opened their on-farm retail store to further spread turkey love. What started as a small venture has blossomed into a buzzing hub of turkey goodness!

What's their secret? They're all about turkey, all the time! The Turkey Shoppe covers every turkey craving, from plump breasts and sizzling sausages to mouthwatering deli cuts. They're the pros for making turkey a delicious part of your everyday meals. Whether you need a quick fix or plan a feast, they have just what you need.

But it's not just about the food—the whole experience sets them apart. With a team of friendly and witty staff, they'll have you laughing your way through the aisles. They love being part of the Horton Farmers' Market, "We love the interaction with our customers and being part of their healthy eating lifestyle." It's a community, and they're proud to be a part of it!

They're turning up the heat this year with their incredible chefs, Ben and Matt. They whip up exclusive heat-and-serve turkey meals every Friday to make your taste buds dance with joy. Follow their social media or website to stay in the loop and never miss a mouthwatering creation when it makes its Horton debut fresh on Saturday Morning!

​Now, let's talk about the star of the show: Turkey Schnitzel. "Turkey Schnitzel is always a favourite," this crowd-pleaser is quick, delicious, and oh-so-versatile. Whip it up for a gourmet sandwich, toss it on a bed of greens, or let it steal the spotlight in a fancy dinner. Here's the secret to perfection: preheat a lightly greased pan, sizzle it on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side, and voila! Crispy, tender goodness awaits.

So, whether you're a turkey enthusiast or just starting your poultry adventure, the Turkey Shoppe is your go-to destination for all things turkeylicious. Join the turkey revolution and experience flavour, fun, and a whole lot of gobble-tastic excitement at the Turkey Shoppe—where turkey reigns supreme!