Our Story
Reed Dow, the property owner of the Farmhouse Carts location, has a long family connection to this building. As a young man in the early 60’s, Reed worked at his Father’s company, Dow Columbia, a reputable rug and furniture cleaning business.
The business which expanded into house cleaning, environmental restoration, and antique and art restoration was eventually sold in 2007. Reed remodeled the building in 2011 turning it into a retail space and established the Farmhouse Carts within the last year.
The vision for Farmhouse Carts stemmed from a desire to activate the space and to enhance the livability of the neighborhood. With the parking lot being underused and neglected, the idea to introduce food carts was born, with the aim to create a lively hub within walking distance that would appeal to residents and families within the neighborhood.
The 1980s marked a period when Division Street was scarcely developed, but the last decade has seen significant transformation contributing to the dynamic appeal of the Richmond neighborhood. The Dow’s family property was among the first to remodel, helping to rejuvenate the area and signaling a new era of community based development and engagement.
At its core, Farmhouse Carts is more than a food cart pod; it is a symbol of renewal and craftsmanship. Reed, inspired by carpenters he had worked with in his youth, eventually developed a passion for woodworking and became self taught in the craft.
When you visit the Farmhouse Carts, you’ll see custom tables and decorative carvings that Reed built himself. After a lifelong administrative career, he relishes the opportunity to work with his hand. These pieces contribute to the comfortable, welcoming vibe for those who frequent the carts.
Always looking to improve and cater to the needs of its visitors, Farmhouse Carts has recently added TVs for those that like to watch our local sports teams, and even a covered and heated area to provide warmth during the colder months.
Farmhouse Carts stands as a testament to the vision and hard work of the Dow family, who have transformed an underutilized parking lot into a beloved neighborhood fixture. By marrying their legacy of craftsmanship with a dedication to community development, they have created a space that truly enriches the neighborhood and keeps the community spirit alive.