HARDWICK – Young and old community members turned out in abundance for the Buffalo Mountain Co-op’s 50th Anniversary Party on a clear and comfortable Saturday, Sept. 13, at Atkins Field.
photo by Vanessa Fournier
The Miller Brothers, a local bluegrass duo who bring a contemporary feel to old-time and modern tunes, kicked off the festivities in the afternoon as guests had their choice of foods provided by the co-op, food to purchase from MexiRico Auténtico, Adobo Bowl and Stag and Thistle.
A welcoming information booth offered tee-shirts for sale and space for those so-inclined to add their co-op memories and well-wishes, plus a chance for members to update their memberships help others join the co-op. A bounce house and other activities were available for younger attendees.
The co-op, now operating on Mill Street as Buffalo Mountain Market, opened its storefront on Wolcott Street in 1975, in a building provided at no charge by four tenants sharing the upstairs space.
Tom Borrup, who traveled from Minneapolis for the event, said he signed the original articles of incorporation near the end of August in 1975, which others confirmed, as the current general manager, Emily Hershberger, said she encounters his name on co-op documents, even 50 years later.
photo by Vanessa Fournier
As the Miller Brothers wrapped-up before 6 p.m., current co-op board chair Annie Gaillard shared her experience as an early member of the original co-op, remaining on the staff until her retirement in recent years, when she transitioned to offering leadership on the board.
Gaillard introduced Stuart Weiss, who, along with a partner, purchased that original Wolcott Street building in the summer of 1975. Weiss went on to share his recollections of the co-op’s early history, which led to an introduction of Hershberger, who has presided over what she called, “one of our most significant changes yet: moving into this new space and expanding what we offer.”
Lynd, age 10, of Walden how to make apple cider during the anniversary celebration Sunday.
photo by Vanessa Fournier
She began, remembering recent losses in the co-op family, with the passing of Regina Troiano, who served as bookkeeper for over 20 years, as “Her sharp, perceptive wit kept the books in line and added some spice to our crew.” Then remembering organic farmer Bruce Kaufman, who served on the board and as its treasurer for many years. “His passion for feeding his community led him to be a mentor to many young organic farmers and people here at the co-op, including me.”
Hershberger also noted Barry Baldwin, “who is very much still with us, he just isn’t working at the co-op.” Baldwin was “our bookkeeper for over 20 years and a superlative collective coordinator. His warm smile and hug graced the co-op for many years, helping to create a loving and welcoming space.”
photo by Vanessa Fournier
Discussing the recent merger with the Village Market and move into its space on Mill Streer, Hershberger said, “What we’ve found is that this move allowed us to welcome more of our community into the co-op, while still holding true to our values, and we’ve been thriving ever since.”
“The spirit of care is what makes this co-op not just a store, but a community hub,” she said. “Our vision is to keep growing relationships, to keep nourishing our neighbors, and to keep this co-op rooted in the values of community care and connection.”
photo by Paul Fixx
Atom & the Orbits, a musical group assembled by Noah Hahn, who offered danceable rhythms in the form of short, old-school power pop songs in the mold of Chuck Berry.
A birthday cake was cut and served, disappearing into the hands of waiting celebrators quite quickly.
As Hahn’s line-up wound down with several slow tunes, allowing for gentler, more intimate dancing by some, a break for quieter conversation ensued during which Backline Collective got set up. Ben Dunham and this group rode a New Orleans flavored groove to close out the event’s mini-music fest.
