|
By: Jim Fitzpatrick |
|
Email: jim@nunica.com |
|
Local Farmer in Polkton Township writes for the Coopersville Observer. |
|
Along Brandy Creek By Jim Fitzpatrick
The Coopersville Observer April 19, 2004- - No. 27 |
|
The lettering on the sign out front flat out makes it clear that the "Best Feed in Town" is made and sold right there on the premises. That tall white building along the South side of the tracks is where you can purchase some of the finest horse feed, chicken feed, cow feed or hog feed that money can buy. You won't find another place of business quite like it for miles around. That real home town feeling hits you square in the face as soon as you're out of your pickup truck and step inside. Tom owns, runs the place and does most of the work himself - oversees the feed making process from start to finish.
An array of machinery hums a constant rhythm of grinding, mixing, churning and blending that lends a life of it's own to the old mill. Conveyors, shoots and elevators crisscross the dust covered interior from top to bottom, end to end. Stacks of plump and bulging feed-filled bags create a maze of passageways through the work area. The smells of freshly milled wheat, corn and oats mingle with the dusky air. The sweet aroma of molasses will catch the attention of your snifter.
Tom is full of information in reference to the history of his mill, when he has the time that is. He can be a good listener too. You can't help but want to hang around some. But, if you do so for very long, you'll soon be in the way. Tom will need to be on the move again, get what you need out on the dock, take your money and move on to the next customer.
If you've got hardware needs for your horses or other pets it's all right there in the little back room just beyond the office. Squeeze your way through and have a look around. Don't forget that there is hay and straw for sale too, out front under the overhang.
That's what it is all about over there at Tom's Mill in downtown Coopersville. A good place to spend your cash, a pleasant and unusual atmosphere to experience while your at it. |
