Zern's Farmer's Market facts for kids
Zern's Farmers Market was a big, year-round market in Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania. It was like a huge indoor and outdoor shopping area where people could buy many different things. The market was located along Philadelphia Avenue, close to Pennsylvania Route 100.
The market had two main buildings. One was shaped like a "t", and the other was an "L" shaped building for a flea market. When the weather was nice, outdoor selling spots were set up between the buildings. This area was known as "the Midway." The main building was heated in winter and kept cool in summer with a special fan system.
You could find all sorts of items at Zern's. There were toys, collectibles, pets, clothes, and electronics. You could also buy fresh produce and prepared food. Many foods had a special taste from the Pennsylvania Dutch culture, which is a group of people with German roots living in Pennsylvania. The market also had two butcher shops, a deli, a barber shop, two bakeries, and a spice shop. There was even a place to get Hershey's Ice Cream and fresh chicken. It was a popular spot for people in the area to meet up. The only big chain store there was Auntie Anne's Pretzels.
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What Was Zern's Farmers Market?
Zern's Farmers Market was a very popular place for shopping and fun. It was open all year long, offering a wide variety of goods. The market was known for its unique mix of vendors.
What Could You Find There?
Inside Zern's, you could explore many different kinds of shops. You might find new toys or old collectibles. There were also shops selling clothing and electronics. Fresh fruits and vegetables were always available. Many food items had a special flavor from the Pennsylvania Dutch traditions. This means the food was often made with old family recipes. The market also had places to buy meat, fresh bread, and delicious ice cream.
Fun Events at Zern's
Zern's was more than just a place to shop. It also hosted exciting events. Every week, live auctions were held in the main building. You could also find a "silent auction" in the flea market building. This is where people write down their bids instead of shouting them out. Other special events included car shows and local wrestling matches. The market was usually open only on Fridays and Saturdays. However, its hours would sometimes change for holidays.
The History of Zern's
Zern's Farmers Market had a long and interesting history. It started as a small local event and grew into a well-known landmark.
How Zern's Started
William Zern (1883 - 1978) began Zern's in 1922. It was first called "The Sale." It started as a small auction for his family farm. Soon, neighbors and other people from town joined in. Before long, it became a famous spot in Gilbertsville. In the early days, farm animals were auctioned in a large barn. The market grew bigger and bigger. Many different sellers came to offer their goods.
In 1966, a big fire sadly destroyed Zern's. The market turned into a pile of burnt remains. But the community quickly worked together. Within days, they started building a new market. The new Zern's rose from the ashes. Philadelphia Magazine even once called Zern's "Best Of Philly."
Challenges and Closing
In December 2007, the economy faced a tough time. This made it harder for businesses everywhere. At Zern's, more and more shops became empty. Things got even harder because two new shopping centers opened nearby. These new centers had grocery stores and restaurants. They were only about two miles away from Zern's.
In June 2018, it was announced that Zern's Farmer's Market would close. It had been open for 96 years. Zern's stopped operating on September 30, 2018.
