Locally sourced foods a focal point for Market in the Mills

Written By MARNI WALSH

Market In The Mills, the first general store in Horning's Mills in four decades, held their Grand Opening on  October 19th with great success. Owners, husband and wife team, Kevin Turner and Connie Tunney say, “Locally sourced goods are a focal point of the market, including fresh, baked goods as well as a commitment to sustainability for our local suppliers of farm-fresh eggs and meat, Sheldon Creek Dairy, and Mochaberry Coffee as well as our local artisans' wares, crafts and goodies.”

The general store took prices back to the olden days of rural Ontario, for the opening day celebrations, with coffee, ice cream and pizza for just 25 cents. “It was a tremendous success,” say the owners. “The weather was near perfect as we welcomed over 100 friends, neighbours, travellers and well wishers to our market.”

Kevin Turner reminisced about Lewis Horning, who first cleared the way for several mills, shops and professional offices that became Horning's Mills in the mid to late 1800s.  “One of those shops operated from our very location,” he says. “Later, Horning's Mills was one of the earliest settlements in Ontario to have hydro due to its location surrounding the once aggressive Pine River.”

“This wonderful history is the reason Connie and I are excited to be a part of this beautiful area,” says Mr. Turner, “and to open, or re-open, the first general store in Horning's Mills in forty years.” 

Kevin Turner told the Free Press, he grew up on a farm in Melancthon, attended church in Horning's Mills, and went to school in Shelburne. “Fond memories remain of a simple, healthy life on the farm,” says Mr. Turner. “My brothers and I always had the country way of life instilled in us, which always included hard work, pride, honesty and integrity whether on the farm, in business or everyday life.”

Kevin Turner and Connie Tunney operated an East Side Mario's in Brampton for eight years before purchasing a century home in Horning's Mills. They say their focus for their new venture is “to take care of the needs of the village, not just groceries, snacks and ice cream, but to support and be involved in community events at our historic hall and at the local park.” Customers can enjoy takeout offerings at the store, including homemade chilli or soups, fresh sandwiches, and authentic style thin crust pizza, as well as fulfilling their grocery needs. 

“We want that early 20th century concept of community togetherness to mesh with the technology and lifestyles of the early 21st century customer,” says Kevin Turner. The couple are also hoping site seers, skiers, and travellers “will enjoy a stopover at Market In The Mills for a coffee, an ice cream cone or maybe just a rest to take in the beautiful country setting.”

Mr. Turner says, “It was overwhelming to see the wonderful support,”  at their Grand Opening, and extends “a special thank you to Mayor Darren White for a great Melancthon style ribbon cutting ceremony.” Market In The Mills is located on 164 Main Street in Hornings Mills. Call 519-925-6464.