Farmers' Harvest

This is one of a
series of paintings
by Robert Butler
that depict
turn-of-the-century scenes from twelve
of Florida's major
agricultural industries.

Local farmers' markets are a distinct part of our American culture and a unique feature of many Florida towns and cities. Each farmers market reflects the areas charm with locally produced specialties for sale directly to the public. Fruits, vegetables, nursery stock and other commodities are available on a seasonal basis reminiscent of a bygone era when local markets were the heart of commercial districts.

All narratives accompanying the paintings were written by Robert Butler.
All rights reserved by the artist.

Cracker Cowman

Golden Grove

Equine Splendor

Farmers' Harvest

Fern Garden

Timber Shadows

Shipping Cotton

Ocean Farming

Strawberry Patch

Sugar Harvest

Tomato Garden

Beekeeping in the Pines

Farmers Harvest

Tucked away beneath a sprawling oak beside the roadway of memory, images of the farmers market invades our past with all the subtlety of a freight train.

In the day of American adolescence, this form of agri-commerce played a vital role in American progress. Whether commercially grown or family farm, American farmers pushed the leading edge of agri-development and sustained a nation and its allies.

The roadside farmers market was Americas agri-address of the past. At the approach of the new millennium, science and technology have cast the American farmer into the role of world provider. Success has been no less than spectacular. But somewhere deep in the heart of the American countryside, you can still find the spirit that takes you back.

Next time you are traveling the back roads, stop and have a glass of lemonade from the stand by the roadside. The kid who owns it may charge you more than 5 cents a glass and give you a computerized receipt. But, its the memories that are priceless. Remember, youve changed too. To the kid, just say "thanks for the memories."