Enjoy the adventures of one woman as she experiences the sites and sounds of Texas Forest Country. There's never a dull moment as each visit offers plenty to see and do, often with surprising twists!
Fresh Off the Vine…or Bush or Tree!
‘Tis time to reap nature’s bounty! If you don’t grow your own, there are plenty of Texas Forest Country farmers who put the “home” back into homegrown. There’s no better place to savor summer’s offerings than the Angelina County Farmers’ Market in Lufkin. This is not your typical roadside produce stand or truck farm. The short drive into the Market transports you back in time. My recent visit reminded me of a Sunday afternoon outing with my grandparents. When you enter the arched gate, you immediately pass over a covered bridge, circle an awesome climbing tree, glimpse a gazebo and the Stumpery (that’s a Master Gardener project in a shady creekbed) before you pull up to a beautiful tree-shaded building that houses a series of independently-operated markets. There’s plenty of friendly competition between the growers to see who has the sweetest watermelons, the reddest tomatoes or the plumpest peas.
Although she’s no stranger to gardens, this is Connie Patton’s first year working at the Market. “I was raised on a farm. There’s nothing that passes through here that I don’t take home first to taste. That way when I meet the people, I can speak firsthand about the fruits and vegetables we sell.” Mary Curry’s been working different stands for a decade. Need a watermelon? Let Miss Mary thump it and pick it for you! She picked one for me that vanished as soon as we cut it. Mike and Leslie Kennerly of Kennerly Farms manage the Angelina County Farmer’s Market. They are also sellers along with Arnold Farms, Helm’s and Jacksonville Peaches and Tomatoes. Did I mention the clematis that climbs or the plumbago that greets you? Blooming things of all descriptions are also yours for the asking! Right on Loop 287 just passed the 69 South exit, it’s a lovely spot and worth the drive (even with gas at $4 a gallon)!
Do you have a favorite place in Texas Forest Country that you love to buy fresh fruits and veggies? Share away!
2107 South Medford Dr.
Open Daily (Monday through Friday 8 am to 6 pm;
Saturday 8 am to 5 pm; Sunday 10 am to 4 pm)
(936) 632-2605