Locally grown and made items can make a place unique. Whether it is homemade soaps at the Farmer’s Market, homegrown flowers, artwork, or more, these items make a place more relatable. Visit the Belleville Farmer’s Market in the summer months to see all that Republic County has to offer. So, what are some examples of the in other communities?
In Seattle, Washington, art is in the eye of the beholder with the Gum Wall. The Gum Wall was started in the 1990’s when people leaving a production studio started putting their used gym on the alley walls. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gum Wall probably isn’t the most sanitary place, but it does draw tourists. While it might be considered gross by many, the Gum Wall proves that public and eccentric art can be a tremendous community draw. A small-town example of this is the Grassroots Arts community of Lucas, Kansas. With the bowl plaza winning the second most beautiful toilet in the United States, Lucas proves that investing in the arts can be beneficial.
The Depot Market in Courtland has grown flowers and had pick-your-own flowers for the past couple of years. Groups of people flock there not only to pick flowers, but also to pick blackberries, strawberries, and apples. Back to the Seattle example, Pike Place Market/City Market Center offers flower bouquets, ice cream, and bakeries.
Visitors love photo opportunities and Instagram-worthy spots. So, build and rebuild your rural community by emphasizing architecture, beautiful spaces, green spaces, and people-centered ideas. Locally grown and made items can be a visitor draw all their own.
