OUR ROOTS
A bit of history…
The Ridgway Farmers Market began back in 2000 thanks to the vision and determination of Jane Bennett. That spring, a small group of local farmers and community leaders gathered to make it official — with Larry Cole elected as chair of the very first steering committee. The founding team included CSU Extension Agent Gary Rushing of Norwood, Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce president Garry Chronister, Guy Borden of Borden Farm in Pea Green, and Julie Bursi of Julie’s Orchids right here in Ridgway.
From the start, their mission was clear: to encourage and strengthen agriculture on Colorado’s Western Slope by creating an affordable, accessible place for local producers to sell their goods and connect with the community.
The first market took place on July 9, 2000, at the Ouray County Fairgrounds. Twelve years later, the market found its true home beneath the shade trees of Hartwell Park — where locals and visitors still gather every Friday to share fresh food, music, and connection.
Now more than two decades later, the Ridgway Farmers Market continues to thrive — a living example of what happens when a community grows together!
Meet Jessie, the maker and dreamer behind Winter Moon Gifts. She and her husband, Carson, have built a life in western Colorado where family and creativity are at the heart of everything they do. Jessie is a proud mom of two — her son, Ben, who’s thriving in college, and her daughter, Ellie, whose memory continues to inspire her every day.
Winter Moon Gifts was born out of loss and healing. After Ellie’s passing, Jessie found comfort in scent — blends that softened the sharp edges of grief — and in creating metal art that reflected light and movement. Candles became rituals of memory and calm; each metal piece, a quiet reminder of strength and renewal. What began as a way to find footing through heartbreak has grown into a business built on connection, nostalgia, and artistry.
Jessie’s journey with the Ridgway Farmers Market began in 2020 as a vendor, grew into service as Board Treasurer, and now continues in her role as Market Manager. She believes the market is more than a place to shop — it’s a gathering space, a support system for small businesses, and a reflection of the town’s heart.
Jessie Bergman
OUR MARKET MANAGER
OUR BOARD
Board Chair
Marietta Johnson
Co-Chair
Jenn Mueller
Treasurer
Jessie Bergman
Secretary
Brittany Duffy
Community Members
Michelle Montague
Stephanie Lauerman
Martha Lacy