Some of the older crowd in Battle Creek may remember the name Green Gardens. My grandparents, Don & Jean Thompson, ran a thriving produce business in Battle Creek in the 1950's and 1960's with the same name. There were up to five locations at the height of their business, geographically spread out across Battle Creek. It turns out Don's parents, John and Dora, also had a small grocery on Main Street in Battle Creek from 1912-1918. They sold produce from area farmers who brought produce into town on horse and wagon. Many groceries were even delivered by bicycle.

Working in the produce business in Battle Creek spans fours generations (almost 100 years) for the Thompson family. It came without hesitation to name the farm Green Gardens in 2008. It just made complete sense. I wanted to honor my grandparents and also wanted to make sustainability - "Green" - part of the farm's mission.

So, Green Gardens continues on. We hope that we can continue to serve the needs of Battle Creek community members for many years to come! Below are pictures of my great-grandparents' grocery (1910's) and Green Gardens from the 50's and 60's.

John & Dora Thompson in front of their grocery (dated 1912-1918). From the BC Enquirer in 1978.

Don & Jean Thompson at Green Gardens in mid 1950's.

Ruthie and Trent at market in Kalamazoo in summer of 2010