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Dane County Farmers' Market History
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The Beginning of Farmers' Markets in Madison
Madison first holds farmers' markets starting in the 1950's in grocery store parking lots, however none were prominent or successful. Mayor William Dyke became interested in establishing a strong Madison farmers' market after being asked by a Madison resident at a town meeting. -
First Market Manager appointed
Mayor Dyke chooses his assistant, Bob Brennan, as the first Market Manager to plan the Dane County Farmers’ Market. Together with the Central Madison committee, their goal was to bring new life to downtown Madison. -
DCFM Finds a Home
The Committee is issued a “sales permit” by the Wisconsin State Capitol building, which allows vendors to sell on the Capitol Square. -
The Opening Day of DCFM
The first day of the Dane County Farmers’ market opens. Eleven vendors were packed onto one street close to Capitol grounds. Vendors are surprised by the popularity of their goods, and consumers show instant interest. Only a week after the first Market, an additional 84 vendors show up to sell their products. The Market expands to the Capitol Square. -
Successful Seasons
The DCFM’s full season is underway after two years of its opening. More than 300 vendors went to the Capitol Square to sell their products at the Market throughout the season. More than 200,000 customers attended throughout the season. -
Season Extended
The DCFM extends the length of the season from April – November. -
Seniority Rule Enforced
A “seniority process” is introduced to vendors of the DCFM. Based off the last 20 years of record, the more experience a business had at serving at the DCFM in the past determined their choice of their stand's location on the square. After this date, vendors would no longer spend the night to try to get the best spot. Instead, they would arrive at 6 a.m. each market Saturday. -
Producer-Only Rule Closely Monitored
The DCFM board of directors starts to watch the way vendors produce their products and require them to be apart of the production of the good. Only goods made by the processors may be sold at the DCFM. -
Vendor Waitlist Begins
At almost four hundred vendors during one season, the DCFM peaked and it became unrealistic to allow all hopeful producers to serve at the Market. Vendors now apply to be a vendor at the Market, and other hopeful vendors are put on a continuing waitlist. -
Winter Farmers' Market Opens
An indoor market during the winter season is held at the Monona Terrace based off the success of the summer market.
