About Bush's Farm Market
A Family Tradition Since 1969
Welcome to Bush's Farm Market, where fresh produce, local flavors, and family tradition have been bringing people together for more than 50 years.
Located in New Era, Michigan, our market has grown from a small family farm stand into a place where generations of customers have come for fresh apples, seasonal produce, and a friendly conversation.
How It All Began
Jim and Lois Bush — the beginning of a family farming tradition.
Our story began in 1969, when my dad, Jim Bush, decided he was ready for a change. After years of working at a local leather tannery, he wanted something different. He wanted to be his own boss, work the land, and build a farm of his own.
For the next couple of years, Dad worked two full-time jobs. He would spend eight hours at the tannery, then head to the farm he had purchased and put in another eight hours—or more. It was hard work, but he had a dream and was determined to make it happen.
One of the happiest days of his life was the day he was finally able to leave the tannery behind and become a full-time farmer.
Over the years, Dad purchased additional land, planted more apple and cherry trees, grew asparagus, and steadily expanded the farm.
The Apple Lady
Lois Bush, affectionately known as “the Apple Lady,” helped build the market into a local tradition.
Alongside my father was my mom, Lois Bush, whom many of our longtime customers fondly remember as “the Apple Lady.”
Mom helped establish the family market, beginning with apples and pears grown on our farm. For more than 30 years, she worked alongside Dad while managing the market and welcoming customers.
For many people, Mom was the face of Bush's Farm Market. Her dedication helped turn a small farm market into a familiar stop for families throughout the area.
The Next Generation
In 2007, more than 30 years after my father began farming, I took over the entire family farming operation, including Bush's Farm Market. It was an opportunity to carry on everything my parents had worked so hard to build while bringing some of my own ideas to the farm and market.
In 2016, we completely remodeled the market, creating additional space and opportunities to expand what we could offer our customers.
Over time, I introduced self-serve asparagus and cucumbers during the spring and summer months and expanded our selection to include squash, pumpkins, sweet corn, and other produce grown on our farm.
We also began offering more products from neighboring farms and local producers, including Fleming's Apple Cider and Lake Effect Honey, among others.
I've loved watching the farm and market continue to grow over the years. But what I enjoy most isn't simply growing and selling produce. It's meeting the people who stop by, catching up with returning customers, getting to know new ones, and providing the freshest, highest-quality produce I can.
More Than a Farm Market
Bush's Farm Market today — continuing a family tradition that began in 1969.
To me, Bush's Farm Market has always been about more than apples and vegetables.
It's about the hard work and determination of my parents, the traditions they started, and the relationships we've built with our customers over the years.
Whether you've been visiting us for decades or are discovering our market for the first time, I hope you'll always feel welcome.
Come Visit Us!
We invite you to stop by Bush's Farm Market in beautiful New Era, Michigan, enjoy some fresh produce, and experience a little of the family tradition that began back in 1969.
We look forward to seeing you!