News : Fisher Shares the History of Farmers Mercantile Hall

Nick Fisher shared with the Local Kiwanis a bit about the Farmers Mercantile Hall that he owns in Garrison. If you'll notice, each month you can find both his ad and a article concerning the shows that are scheduled for the month. Here is a link to his Facebook page. 

He said that he is unclear of the date of construction of the building and even the courthouse records disagree with what he's discovered. However, it looks like it was constructed around the early 1900s. The building was originally a store and housed a millinery shop in the balcony. An old article that he discovered said that when the hats were completed the owner would deliver them on a beautiful horse!

The building is now being used to host events for families including reunions, baby or bridal showers and basically anything you need a location with tables and chairs. The building was put to good use when the derecho damaged the Garrison Library. Nick opened the building for the library's use. All of the books were brought into the building while repairs were made. Since that time, the library has provided refreshments during the monthly shows. He said that the building was a great stop for RAGBRAI a few years ago.

The highlight is, of course, the concerts that he brings to town each month. One annual event that is held is the Idiot Jam. This is a special show organized and hosted by Todd Frank. It is a gathering of area artists who perform for the afternoon. A special feature that the singers and musicians bring is that their music is usually original and sounds that you won't hear anywhere else.

Over the course of the last 20 years in which Fisher has owned the building, he said that the largest crowd that has attended an event has been 125 but hopes for 50-75 at the concerts each month. 

He jokingly said that he is asked  is, "How do you get people to come to Garrison?" He said, "It's easy really. You pay them!" 

Be sure to check out his Facebook page and follow for concert events and updates!