Ellis Family Farms, a six-generation family farm rooted in tradition

This week, we’re proud to spotlight one of our longest-standing vendors at the 61st Street Farmers Market, Ellis Family Farms. With deep roots dating back to the 1920s, this family-run farm has been growing produce in Benton Harbor, Michigan for over 100 years. Today, the legacy continues with René Ellis, who officially took over the 60 acre farm from her parents in 2005 and now runs it alongside her husband, Bruce.

Al and Sharlotte, part of the Ellis team, have been bringing their fresh produce to the 61st Street Farmers Market since day one—18 years ago!—and continue to be a beloved part of our Market family.

Ellis Family Farms is known for its wide variety of high-quality fruit—including blueberries, peaches, raspberries, strawberries, cherries, and apples—which are handpicked and grown sustainably. They even grow 14 varieties of peaches that ripen from summer into fall! Shoppers also love their delicious apple cider, honey, and small-batch fruit preserves—and let’s not forget their free range brown chicken eggs, which sell out every week!

What makes them special? Environmental stewardship is essential to their growing practices, as evidenced by their Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) certification. The whole family plays a role in planning, planting, and preserving the harvest. Their family recipes are shared with the community on their website.

“COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY, COMMUNITY” is how they describe 61st Street Farmers Market. And we couldn’t agree more!

As Al Michael says, “We wouldn’t exist without you. So please come out and see us—and come early to get the best of everything!”