Cherished Ice Cream Shop, Marble Farms, to be Demolished: A Look Back at a Beloved Local Landmark
By Victoria Kellogg
Posted: Oct 14, 2025
For many, Marble Farms was more than just an ice cream shop; it was a cherished local landmark that brought people together. For Beverly Peterson, it was the start of lifelong friendships and a pivotal part of her young adulthood. She recalls her first day on the job in the late 1970s, donning her apron and scooping bubble gum and peppermint patty ice cream alongside her sisters on Grand Avenue.
"We had a lot of fun, met a lot of great people, and made friends that have lasted till now," Peterson shared. "We still get together, some of us."
What began as a part-time job quickly became a defining experience for Peterson. She formed strong bonds with her coworkers, all of similar age, who she still considers close friends and family. "It was more than just working with other girls," she said. "We were all going through the same experiences at the same time."
Decades later, Peterson and her former coworkers remain in touch, gathering a few times a year to reminisce about their time at Marble Farms and share updates on their lives. For generations, Marble Farms was a staple known for its ice cream, milk, and special marbles handed out as "business cards" by Mr. Marble himself.
However, the ice cream shop's future is uncertain. Marble Farms Produce, the current owners, have announced that the building will be demolished. This news has sparked a wave of nostalgia, with many sharing their memories and stories from their childhood visits. Sheena Gaspaini, the current owner's daughter, expressed her hope to preserve the memories and history of Marble Farms.
"What is really special to me is everybody else's memories that they are sharing as a kid," Gaspaini said. "My family hopes to maybe one day bring back those memories that everybody had."
Despite the building's age and the uncertainty surrounding the property, Gaspaini is committed to preserving its history. They are salvaging nostalgic items and planning to incorporate the shop's legacy into future projects.
Marble Farms Produce will close at the end of October for their pumpkin season but will reopen shortly after to sell Christmas trees.
