Bob and Tonya Dodds are the owners of The Homestead Farm to Table Market in Belgrade. NCJ photo by Rick Holtz
What began as a vision to bring locally produced foods, homemade goods, and community gathering back to rural Nebraska has quickly become a reality at The Homestead Farm to Table Market in downtown Belgrade.
After completing its first month of operation, owners Bob and Tonya Dodds say the response from the community has exceeded expectations.
Located in the historic Farmers State Bank and former Belgrade Post Office building, The Homestead Market offers a unique farm-to-table shopping experience featuring locally raised meats, homemade products, specialty foods, and a growing selection of goods from Nebraska producers. The business also serves beer and other alcoholic beverages, creating a welcoming space for visitors to gather, shop, and support local agriculture.
Customers have traveled from surrounding communities; even as far away as Iowa to see what we’re building here and hear about the history. It’s exciting to see people supporting local producers and investing in smalltown Nebraska.
The building itself represents a significant restoration effort. What was initially expected to be a simple remodel turned into an 18-month renovation project. During construction, the owners uncovered historic elements of the building dating back to its early days, including original decorative ceiling tiles from when the structure served as a local bank more than a century ago.
Since opening, The Homestead has welcomed a steady stream of customers and continues to expand its offerings. The market is actively seeking additional Nebraska producers interested in selling shelf-stable products, homemade goods, and value-added agricultural products.
The Homestead also plans to host special events throughout the year, creating another destination for residents and visitors alike. You can find them on Facebook, if you’d like to keep up to date with current happenings and sales.
For a community of just over 100 residents, the market has already generated noticeable activity in downtown Belgrade. During opening weekend, traffic and parking stretched throughout town as curious visitors stopped to experience the new business.
The Dodds say their goal remains simple: create a place where local producers have an outlet for their products and customers can connect with the people who grow, raise, and make them.
“We believe rural communities are strongest when we support each other,” said Dodds. “The Homestead is about bringing people together, supporting local families, and showcasing the incredible products being produced right here in Nebraska.”
The Homestead Market is open Monday and Fridays from 4-10 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
As the business enters its second month, the owners remain grateful for the support received from the community and look forward to continuing to grow alongside the producers and customers who have made the venture a success.