APPALACHIAN FAMILY - Coates Produce at the Western North Carolina Farmers Market. FOA Ep.16

In the mid 1970's, brothers Hoye and Luther "Cap" Coates quit their jobs and started a produce business together, along with their wives, Christean and Jolene. They ran their small, Coates Produce operation at several locations, over many decades, but settled into the WNC Farmers Market in the late 70’s where the store remains today. Recently they decided to retire and pass the business along to the next generation of two brothers. Michael and Myron Coates, sons of Luther and Jolene, bought out their parents and Uncle Hoye and Aunt Christean, and operate the produce stand today, along with Michael’s wife, Kim, and Myron’s son, Colby.

The Coates family has deep roots in their rural mountain community. For generations they have farmed, hunted, attended church, raised their children, and helped out their neighbors in the remote Grapevine section of Madison County, NC. The family is known for their engaging personalities, strong work ethic, fairness, and generosity, and have developed a loyal following since they began selling at the market when it first opened in 1977.

I’ve been a loyal customer and friend of their family for decades and always love visiting them at the farmer’s market. I go for the friendship and conversation and come away with some wonderful produce! I also get caught up on what’s happening with their family and the community at large, pick up some fresh produce, and get ideas and even recipes on how to fix what’s fresh and in season. We think you’ll enjoy getting these great folks as we have over the years!

Be sure to check out our other episodes and our books about the area at www.barnwellphoto.com