Sue Nibeck: The Legacy of Hinsdale Farmers Market

Sue Nibeck isn’t known for complaining. She focuses on improvement, a mindset that led to the founding of the Hinsdale Farmers Market in 1976. This market has now reached its 50th year, operating every Monday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Chicago Avenue, between Garfield and Washington Streets, until October 12.

“We moved here in 1973 from the New York City area, and I was disappointed with the produce quality at the local grocery store,” said Nibeck, now 87. This dissatisfaction spurred Nibeck and a friend to buy cases of food from other places, distributing and selling them among friends. “We shopped alongside renowned chefs and small grocers and made great friends,” she added.

Nibeck always showed interest in farmers markets around Chicago. She believed it was time to establish one in Hinsdale. “By 5 a.m. on Mondays, I was setting up spaces at the market, welcoming farmers, sometimes with homemade coffee cakes,” Nibeck recalled. “Providing fresh fruits and vegetables to everybody was delightful. I aimed to create a community event with a country feel. We made patchwork signs, offered taste tests, used umbrellas for shade, and encouraged sellers to discuss cooking tips for new items. We also held canning lessons, brief concerts by the middle school band, and consultations with experts.”

Nibeck managed the market for 25 years. Dakota Kolvitz, marketing director for the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce, praised her efforts. “It’s impressive that her vision became a community tradition now celebrating 50 years,” Kolvitz remarked. “Creating an event that still unites local vendors, residents, and visitors is a significant legacy.”

The initial spirit of the market remains vibrant after 50 years. “It’s a place for community connection and local vendor support,” Kolvitz noted. “Its aim to support local businesses and foster community connections has not changed, even as it evolved.” She attributes the market’s success to its community-oriented nature. “It’s more than a shopping venue. It has linked generations of residents with farmers and small businesses, creating a community hub,” she observed.

Nibeck and her family moved from Hinsdale to Darien in 2010 after 37 years near Monroe School. Her son Chris was in 8th grade, and daughter Kim in third grade, across the street at Monroe. “I joined the Library Moms, read to younger kids, and helped out,” she said. Her proactive nature led her to address the lack of recreation programs at a Village Board meeting, resulting in a collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce to raise funds for these services.

Her extensive involvement went beyond the farmers market and library. Nibeck actively participated in the Girl Scouts, even starting Camp Lilac in her backyard for fourth graders’ first campouts. Her family joined the Union Church of Hinsdale, and she still coordinates an online women’s discussion group weekly.

Nibeck’s 30-year real estate career was paralleled by volunteering with the American Association of University Women and the League of Women Voters. She also supported a bereaved plumber and his peers through monthly dinners, leading to a role with AARP widows.

“We addressed needs wherever they arose,” Nibeck stated, capturing her approach to community service.

Chuck Fieldman writes for Pioneer Press.