The Harris Family Homestead Farm Stand at 25139 A U.S. Highway 395 opened early Wednesday and drew a steady stream of customers looking for warm sourdough bread, farm eggs and other homemade goods sold on the honor system.
Owner Jamie Harris said she spent the past three to four years planning the self-serve shed. After reviewing food-sale rules and following examples such as Laux Family Farm on social media, the family launched the stand over Memorial Day. “We wanted a way to serve the community even when our kids’ sports pulled us away,” she said. “Seeing other self-serve stands convinced us Modoc could support one, too.”
The display shelves feature sourdough, zucchini-banana bread baked by Harris’s mother-in-law under the label Gramma T’s, garden produce, cut-flower bouquets, lard soap rendered from the family’s pigs, dry baking mixes and hand-painted birdhouses. As fall approaches, the Harrises plan to add firewood bundles, scented wax melts, natural fire starters and T-shirts bearing the farm name.
Support has been swift. The family sold out of sourdough less than two hours after opening on its first weekend, and repeat customers track schedule changes through social media. A guest book shows visitors from Los Angeles, Red Rock and throughout Modoc County. “So far, everyone has been honest and trusting,” Harris said.
Running the stand has required some adjustments, including figuring out how much bread to bake and how long it takes to open and close each day. “Sourdough was supposed to be a once-a-month treat, but demand may push us to bake more often,” she said.
The family hopes to install a small refrigerator for eggs and produce and to collaborate with other local producers on items such as honey. The stand generally operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., although hours depend on farm chores. Payment is accepted by cash or Venmo, and customers are asked to record their purchases before leaving.
“We are grateful for every person who stops by,” Harris said. “Bring a friend and enjoy local food.”
