Hinsdale Farmers Market’s 50-Year Legacy

Sue Nibeck focuses on making improvements. This attitude led her to establish the Hinsdale Farmers Market in 1976. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the market operates every Monday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. until October 12, located on Chicago Avenue between Garfield and Washington Streets.

Nibeck, now 87, recalls moving to Hinsdale in 1973 from New York City and feeling disappointed by the produce quality at a local grocery store. This prompted her and a friend to buy bulk produce to distribute among friends, ensuring a selection of quality fruits and vegetables.

“We shopped alongside chefs and small grocers, forming great friendships,” Nibeck stated. Her fascination with local farmers markets in Chicago spurred her initiative to start one in Hinsdale. She began each Monday at 5 a.m. setting up and welcoming farmers, often with homemade coffee cakes.

Nibeck envisioned the market as a community event with a country feel, complete with handmade signs and cooking tips from sellers. It featured canning lessons, short concerts from middle school bands, and expert consultations.

For 25 years, Nibeck managed the market, receiving praise from Dakota Kolvitz, marketing director for the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce. “Her vision becoming a lasting community tradition is inspiring,” Kolvitz said. The market’s legacy is evident as it continues to connect local vendors, residents, and visitors.

Kolvitz explained that the market thrives because it’s more than a shopping venue. “It’s a community tradition tying residents with local farmers and businesses,” she noted. The market’s ability to adapt while staying true to its mission has been key to its longevity.

Though Nibeck moved to Darien in 2010, her impact on Hinsdale remains significant. Upon arriving in Hinsdale, she quickly became involved in various community initiatives. She joined the Library Moms, helped create a recreation program, and participated actively in local organizations.

Besides her market contributions, Nibeck was instrumental in Girl Scouts, launching Camp Lilac for young campers in her backyard. Her family was also involved with the Union Church of Hinsdale, where she still leads an online women’s discussion group weekly.

Nibeck’s 30-year real estate career coincided with active volunteer work in the American Association of University Women and the League of Women Voters. When a friend struggled with grief, she and her husband organized support dinners, eventually leading to broader community involvement through AARP.

“We aimed to meet needs and challenges we observed,” Nibeck remarked.

Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.