Pre 1970

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Z. Martin (Miriam's parents) originally started selling produce in a roadside stand located in front of their home (now the home of the present owners, Marvin and Miriam Weaver). The stand, located under the large Maple Trees, is where the name Shady Maple Farm Market originated.

Early 1970's

The Weavers decided to take over the business for their occupation. In July 1970, at the age of 23, they opened their first block building, approx. 65' x 65' in which they planned to sell produce. However, they took the opportunity to go with IGA and installed a grocery department. They put overhead garage doors in the building to keep the "farm market" effect. There was also a large porch outside for selling bulk produce. They began this small operation with two cash registers, a few employees, and business was good the first year.

In the fall of 1971, the Weavers decided to expand to better serve their customers. The garage doors were removed and air conditioning was installed. By the fall of the following year, a stock room was added and twenty five people were on the payroll.

In each subsequent year, additions were added and by 1976 the Weavers had 45,000 sq. ft., ten cash registers, and 130 employees. In addition, a newly remodeled in-store bakery and large warehouse was added onto the facility.

2000 through 2009

In September 2000, the Weavers opened their fabulous brand new Smorgasbord. It is located in the same complex as the old Smorgasbord and Farm Market. Comparable to the old, the new building has two levels with the Smorgasbord on the top level and the 30,000 sq. ft. Gift Shop and Fast Food Dutchette located on the lower level. The Weavers can now seat 1,200 people which includes space for special occasions, special meetings, bus tours, etc., and they employ over 250 people in the new facility. The Fast Food Dutchette seats approximately 225 people. The old Smorgasbord is now a furniture store containing a wide selection of beautifully well-made pieces of wood furniture. Amish craftsmen make some of the furniture from as far away as Ohio and Indiana.

The Weavers anticipated the long lines for the Smorgasbord would be a thing of the past, but this was not the case. On Saturday evenings and special event times, there can be over an hour waiting line. Always looking for ways to better serve their customers, Marvin and Miriam saw a need to try to alleviate the long wait for dining. Marvin's vision for a banquet facility was birthed. The ability to accommodate larger groups would be an asset to their customers. The new addition, Shady Maple Banquets recently opened seats up to 1,000 people. September 8, 2009 brought yet another ground breaking for the Weaver family as expansion and renovations were begun to the Farm Market.

2010 through 2011

In September 2010, one year to the day, after ground breaking a Grand Re-Opening ceremony was held for the Farm Market. This remodeling project added 14,000 square feet of retail space, a carport, a new Cafe and a completely remodeled interior.

Today Marvin still believes in the time tested motto: "Give the customer quality food and service and you will have a customer for life." Marvin is quick to acknowledge that his management team and employees play a vital role in making the business successful. The employee's commitment to friendliness and service make Shady Maple Farm Market and Shady Maple Smorgasbord a positive event. The Weavers also feel greatly indebted to all the people from the local and distant communities for their faithful patronage.

Ultimately, Marvin, Miriam and their three married sons, Philip, Curtis, Linford, their wives and families (eleven grandchildren), give the Lord Jesus Christ the glory for any success that has been accomplished over the years. They invite all of you to a "Shady Maple shopping" or "Shady Maple dining" experience.