MIDDLEBORO — Despite the cool, rainy weather, Williams Trading Post celebrated spring, Earth Day and 75 years in business at festivities Saturday, April 20.

Customers visited with neighborhood beekeepers from Blind Bee Apiary who demonstrated the importance of pollinators and a Proven Winner grower representative who shared his knowledge and tips for growing easy-care plants. 

Capeway Worm Farm had a display and offered packages for sale of worm castings as a beneficial garden nutrient supplement.

Children enjoyed a scavenger hunt as they searched for special plants with names such as “Hens & Chicks” while hand-crafted characters Betsy Begonia and Johnny Jump-up were watching over the festivities of the day.

Just as the rain subsided, Oxford Creamery in Mattapoisett rolled in, offering sandwiches and ice cream. Complimentary light refreshments including celebration cupcakes were available throughout the day.

From 1 to 4 p.m. the soothing sounds of dulcimer and flute performed by Patty and Barry Simon of Starry Night Band provided the finale to the day.

Established in 1949 by Harold and Florence Williams with a few boxes of pansies, the Williams family continues to provide gardening supplies and advice. Williams Trading Post is one of the few remaining local businesses along Route 28, the “old route” to Cape Cod.