What started as a produce stand 10 years ago in North, South Carolina, grew into one of the largest farms in the state. With 70 acres of produce including corn, okra, green beans, peas, squash, cucumbers, peppers, and watermelons, McCurley Farms is a hot commodity, especially at this time of year when families crave fresh fruits and veggies.
Customers were already coming from across the CSRA and from as far away as Atlanta. When ABD talked to owner, Paul McCurley back in April, he had just partnered with Southern Carolina Palms in Aiken to sell strawberries and other produce. He envisioned more.
“We started looking back last fall to buy some land in Aiken for a second location,” said McCurley.
He found what they needed at 949 Doughtery Road. The second McCurley Farms location opened on June 29.
As the love for farm-grown goodness grows, so does the farm-to-table trend. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the number of farms may have diminished, but existing farms are getting bigger, in part because chefs across the country are honing in on simple, healthy foods that also support local economies.
McCurley Farms is already feeling the love from area caterers and restaurants. Just down the road from their Aiken location is La Vita Bella. Owner, Angela Dragano is utilizing their produce for her catering business.
In another example of small business support, the Feed Sack restaurants and their newest addition, The Proper Plate, are supporting McCurley Farms through social media posts.
As Paul McCurley says, “The bigger you set the table, the more people come.”
The hours at both McCurley Farms locations are 10:00 am until 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and 9:00 am until 3:00 pm on Saturday. You can also follow them on Facebook.
Editor’s Note:
Mitzi Oxford is a veteran broadcaster and features writer who also worked at the same television station in Columbus, Georgia as Augusta’s Brad Means! If you have a South Carolina story idea for Mitzi, please email her at mitzioxfordcreative@gmail.com.
