Every Sunday in San Francisco’s Richmond District, rain or shine, the Farmers Market Clement Street comes alive, offering a vibrant tapestry of fresh, organic produce straight from local farms. This year-round market isn’t just a place to buy groceries; it’s a community hub where farmers and consumers connect over the shared love of healthy, farm-to-table nourishment.
One of the market’s most beloved figures is Jim Beckman from Feather River Farms in Yuba City. Representing a farm a couple of hours’ drive from San Francisco, Jim has become a fixture at the Clement Street market for a decade. He’s not just a vendor; he’s known by many as the unofficial “Mayor of Clement Street,” a testament to his warm personality and the connections he’s forged with the community.
Jim Beckman, 'Mayor of Clement Street', at Feather River Farms stall at Clement Street Farmers Market.
Jim’s dedication is remarkable. He juggles appearances at three different farmers markets each week – San Rafael, Oakland, and Clement Street. His Sundays, like his Saturdays and Thursdays, begin before dawn. Rising as early as 2:30 a.m. on Thursdays, Jim starts his day in Colusa, fueled by coffee and the anticipation of connecting with the Clement Street crowd.
“I love seeing all the wonderful people that come by [the farmers market] on Sunday,” Jim shares. “They really are so fun. Interacting with them is wonderful. The drive really is the only thing that isn’t fun.” His enthusiasm is infectious, and you’ll often find him sporting a sweatshirt proclaiming his “Mayor of Clement Street” status. He truly embodies the spirit of the market. On any given Sunday, you might even find him lending a hand to fellow vendors, once even hand-writing signs for a neighbor in need. “Sometimes you just have to do what’s necessary as the mayor of Clement Street,” he jokes.
Morley, a regular customer, fondly recounts a visit from San Francisco Mayor London Breed, who playfully acknowledged Jim’s mayoral title during a friendly exchange at his stand. This anecdote perfectly captures Jim’s local celebrity status and the market’s welcoming atmosphere.
As you approach the Feather River Farm stand, you’ll undoubtedly hear Jim’s booming voice greeting customers. His corner spot at Clement Street and Second Avenue is hard to miss, especially when it’s piled high with seasonal delights. In the summer, watermelons dominate, while fall brings the impressive Lunga di Napoli squash, each weighing around 50 pounds. Watching Jim expertly maneuver these giant squashes is a spectacle in itself.
Jim Beckman showcasing Lunga di Napoli squash at Clement Street Farmers Market in fall.
“I have the freshest, best food at my fingertips three days a week,” Jim proudly states. And the selection is truly impressive. Throughout the year, the Feather River Farms stall bursts with a seasonal array of apricots, broccoli, cabbage, cherries, grapes, melons, nectarines, peaches, plums, pluots, pomegranates, squash, stone fruits, tomatoes, walnuts, and watermelons. Each visit to the farmers market Clement Street offers a chance to discover new flavors and seasonal treasures.
Beyond the exceptional produce, it’s Jim’s connection with his customers that truly sets this market apart. He knows countless shoppers by name and delights in sharing his farming knowledge with children. Kids often reciprocate with homemade artwork, a testament to the warm relationships fostered at his stand.
Jim’s humor is legendary among vendors and staff from the Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM), the organization behind the Clement Street Farmers Market. Morley shares a classic Jim-ism: “I always like to watch when people ask Jim if his fruit or watermelon is good. His stock response is: ‘No, I only sell bad fruit.’” This playful banter is just part of Jim’s charm.
But what truly makes Jim special, as Morley observes, is “his amazing ability to find common ground and connect with people of all ages, all genders, all ethnicities, all religions and all colors.” His “encyclopedic knowledge” allows him to engage with anyone on a variety of topics, from local history and Santa Rosa plums to sports and travel. This genuine connection makes the farmers market Clement Street more than just a shopping trip; it’s an enriching community experience.
After a long day at the market, Jim’s work isn’t over. He returns home to care for his 95-year-old mother and his sister. His dedication extends beyond the market, reflecting a life committed to caring for others, including his beloved dog Bosco.
The farmers market Clement Street is more than just a place to buy groceries; it’s a vibrant community gathering spot anchored by dedicated individuals like Jim Beckman. It’s a place where you can experience the best of farm-to-table freshness, connect with local farmers, and enjoy the unique charm of San Francisco’s Richmond District.
Visit the Clement Street Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, check out the Agricultural Institute of Marin’s website: agriculturalinstitute.org/clement-st.
