Country Market returns to mansion Sept. 22

Carroll Simmons used to sell produce and vegetables from his garden to sustain his family. He also acquired the LeDuc Historic estate and kept the hope alive for many that it someday would be open to the community.

For years, Simmons ran his antique business at the mansion on Vermillion Street. Then he donated the property to the City of Hastings.

The first Country Market at the mansion was held in recognition of Simmons’s donation of the property. That was four years ago. It continues to grow.

The LeDuc Simmons Country Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22. Friends of LeDuc of Historic Hastings, Dakota County Historical Society and Hastings-Prescott Area Arts Council (HPAAC,) are co-sponsors of the day.

The Country Market features a sale of unique antiques and collectibles, a plant sale, a sale of fresh produce and canned goods, and a bake sale. Matching funds will be provided by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.

“It is a fundraiser” said Margaret Goderstad, senior tour guide and communications manager for the LeDuc Historic Estate. “We also want to continue to honor the memory of Carroll Simmons who gave us the property. Of course, there is the fellowship.”

“With the produce and the gardening, it is not only about General LeDuc, but about Carroll Simmons who sold produce,” said LeDuc Historic estate tour guide Heidi Langenfeld.

About 15 Hastings area artists will be displaying their artwork on the grounds of the estate. Musician Pete Rivard will play his banjo, Andrew Fox will play the bagpipes, and the musical quartet Mysterio will entertain. The Black Dirt Theater Co. will offer some improv presentations.

Admission to the Country Market is free. Hot dogs, pop, chips and apples will be available for sale.

Regular tours of the mansion will be ongoing – 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. Tours are $5 for seniors and military personnel, and $7 for all others. Large groups are asked to call for reservations – 437-7055.

This is one of 50 events sponsored by Art Reach St. Croix and HPAAC. See www.hpaac.org for further information.

The LeDuc Historic Estate is owned by the City of Hastings and managed by Dakota County Historical Society.  For further information call 651-437-7055 or go to www.dakotahistory.org

Tags: area family events, events, entertainment