History of Rosseau Farmers' Market

The Rosseau Market, like all good things, started as a little idea.

Lynnis Royea, pondering the new millennium back in 1999, saw a need for Rosseau to have its own market. She believed strongly in the need to foster local farmers. After all, we all like to eat, we need to keep Canada as self- sufficient as possible in food production. It would not be desirable to be dependent on other countries for our food. Lynnis believed that farmers' knowledge base and their respect for the land was being eroded by many things in this new century: developers of subdivisions, industry, or cottages —not only in Seguin, but also across Canada—leaving farmers with little sense of value or worth. Without an accessible, supportive, and local venue, local farmers and producers could not and would not thrive. The market would also supply a needed venue for crafts people and artisans.

During the first year of the Rosseau Market, with the help of Laurel Golle and Holly Southwell, Lynnis managed to put together $300.00 in seed money, which birthed the Rosseau Market. The Market insisted on quality from both the farming vendors and local arts and crafts vendors. Our vision was to create a unique market, one that would support local vendors.

The Market left Farmers’ Markets Ontario after the first year and is now an independent market. We needed the freedom to make our own decisions. This has proved to be a good decision. After the first year, Seguin Township was so impressed with what the Rosseau Market had achieved, that they were in 100% support. The Rosseau Market even turned the heads of the local Rosseau businesses, which benefited from the Market's additional draw of clients, customers, and cottagers into the village.

Subsequent years brought additional activities for the entire family to enjoy. We have live music at the gazebo and we choose our entertainers with care. We welcome the opportunity to help non- profit groups advertise and raise money. These traditions have set the Rosseau Market apart from other markets in the area.

The Rosseau Market expands and contracts like the breath of the seasons, allowing for change and growth. This is the little market that could and we have a lot to celebrate and be thankful for.

We invite everyone to come and celebrate with us!