The first bell of the Brackenmill Saturday Market season rang under two repaired vendor shelters, ending a nine-month effort that began after wind tore canvas and bent one of the frames last summer.
Volunteers straightened the reusable supports during the winter. A fundraiser covered new canvas, hardware, and a third rolling weight for each corner. Market coordinator June Latt said the sturdier tie-downs can be installed by two people without borrowing equipment from a vendor.
“It is not glamorous, but it means nobody is standing in the rain holding a pole,” Latt said as vendors set out early greens and bread before opening.
Two growers joined the regular row this season. Willow Cart Farm brought salad greens and herb starts from North Cressvale. Three Gate Orchard of Redfern began with preserves and expects to add early fruit later in the summer.
Both sellers completed the market’s normal vendor review. Their arrival brings the opening-week total to 18 farm, food, and craft tables, although attendance changes with the harvest and weather.
The market began raising shelter money last August after one damaged section had to be taken down. Small donations at the information table covered about half of the material cost. A fall supper and a contribution from the vendor association covered the remainder.
Returning shoppers found several familiar details unchanged: the hand bell at opening, chalkboard prices, and the narrow aisle beside Copper Kettle Bakery where the line briefly folds around the flower stall.
The market runs Saturday mornings through October, weather permitting. This article reports the opening and repair project; it is not a complete vendor directory.