The Food Mill, Inc. 75th Anniversary


by Madeline Smith Moore



Kirk with his two sons, Dan and Ken. Photo by Mark Wong

Click to enlarge.

One summer day in 1968, Art Watkins, older brother of Kirk, was "stomping up and down MacArthur looking for a job and stepped in here [The Food Mill] and met Mr. Denis." In 1933 John Denis had opened the first Food Mill at 2952 Hopkins as a general store including groceries, sold mainly in bulk. By 1939 The Food Mill had outgrown its original

premises and moved a block away to 3033 MacArthur (formerly Hopkins), its present address. In 1933 all food was natural. Mr. Denis produced and sold all natural foods, an ethic carried on until today by Art and Kirk Watkins.

Kirk soon followed his brother into The Food Mill and set about learning everything there was to know about everything—starting with cookies. Two years after the death of Mr. Denis in 1991, the Watkins brothers bought The Food Mill, which contributes in no small way to the health of the community, providing nourishment to the complete human system inside and out, while staying within the financial range of its community.

The original building included a three-story stone grinding mill with a grain elevator, bakery, juicer, and equipment for the manufacture of peanut butter—only made with peanuts, made fresh weekly, both for in-house and retail. While the mill has been replaced, the bakery is still in action as is peanut butter production.

The Food Mill carries over 800 bulk foods, including spices, herbs, maple syrup and honey, nut butters, nuts, and dried fruits. Supplements include vitamins and antioxidants, protein, and muscle builders. Products for weight loss and detoxification, as well as omega oils, digestion/enzymes, and probiotics are in stock.

The Food Mill offers complete grocery service as well as health advice and beauty products. The specialty of the house is Food Mill Brand Cookies, around eight varieties: chocolate chip, date nut, honey fruit, oatmeal raisin, super ginger, omega oat brand, and, of course, peanut butter.

Kirk's two sons, Ken and Dan, serving as General Manager and Assistant Manager respectively, are a good indication that The Food Mill will be here for at least another 75 productive years. Over time, the structure has tripled in size to its present 15,000 sq. ft., retaining much of the 75-year-old original building material, including hardwood maple floors throughout. The experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly staff contributes to the warm and relaxed ambiance. The Food Mill employs, full-time, a health consultant and a Spanish-language speaker; it recognizes, accommodates, and welcomes the diversity of the

community.

Kirk Watkins is optimistic about his, and therefore our, future. One of his doable dreams is to build a dwelling for seniors and lofts next door to The Food Mill. He'll name it Hopkins Street Loft to retain the old-time flavor. And, again—cookies: he and his brother, Art, would like to see their cookie business go nationwide. There is no doubt that they will be successful. And don't miss The Food Mill's 75th anniversary celebration October 4. See you there!