Amish Produce Auction

Approximately 650 Amish families live in east central Illinois (Douglas, Moultrie, and Cole counties). More than 100 Amish families in the area produce vegetables, fruit, and ornamentals. Amish growers have made significant progress in production and marketing of agricultural commodities in the past 5 years. They have expanded their field production and established greenhouse production (including hydroponics) of vegetables and ornamentals. Few years ago, 12 Amish growers established a successful co-op marketing system. In 2004, 28 Amish growers and 2 non-Amish growers set up an auction center (Arthur Produce Auction, Inc., 354N CR 100E, Arthur, IL 61911; phone: 217-543-5100), which is located about half a mile east and half a mile south of Arthur. The auction center was inaugurated on May 27, 2004, and is open 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays. For list of upcoming produce, call 217-543-5100.