“What if”
This simple question has been the steady compass and organic inspiration, guiding and shaping The Old Country Market from its beginning.
The original market was created in 1973 by Kristian Graaten. Kris and his wife, Solveig, emigrated with their children to Vancouver Island from Norway in the 1950s. Kris, who grew up in the small community of Lillehammer, was inspired to include a sod roof in his design of the market. Many Norwegian homes and farm structures are built directly into the hillside with the sod roof becoming an extension of the hillside. With the help of sons, Svein and Andy, and son-in-law, Larry, Kris unwittingly began to build what would become perhaps the most famous sod-roof building in the world.
The original market was created in 1973 by Kristian Graaten. Kris and his wife, Solveig, emigrated with their children to Vancouver Island from Norway in the 1950s. Kris, who grew up in the small community of Lillehammer, was inspired to include a sod roof in his design of the market. Many Norwegian homes and farm structures are built directly into the hillside with the sod roof becoming an extension of the hillside. With the help of sons, Svein and Andy, and son-in-law, Larry, Kris unwittingly began to build what would become perhaps the most famous sod-roof building in the world.
“What if we put goats on the roof?”
It was the weekend of the Coombs Fall Fair and the grass was getting rather long. Legend has it that, after a few glasses of wine, Larry suggested that they ‘borrow’ some goats to ‘mow’ the grass and perhaps provide some entertainment for passing cars. Needless to say, the goats became an instant hit with locals and tourists alike. Now, over thirty years later, the tradition continues with a trio of goats making their home on the roof from Spring to Fall each year.
“What if we put goats on the roof?”
It was the weekend of the Coombs Fall Fair and the grass was getting rather long. Legend has it that, after a few glasses of wine, Larry suggested that they ‘borrow’ some goats to ‘mow’ the grass and perhaps provide some entertainment for passing cars. Needless to say, the goats became an instant hit with locals and tourists alike. Now, over thirty years later, the tradition continues with a trio of goats making their home on the roof from Spring to Fall each year.
The Old Country Market is now owned and operated by Larry and Lene Geekie and their family. ‘Goats On Roof’ has become one of the top tourist destinations in British Columbia, an honour that we owe to our loyal customer base and to our dedicated staff (including the goats!). We are committed to providing a positive and respectful environment for both customers and employees alike. As both owners and employees, we continually strive to offer our customers a unique shopping experience with the best possible service. We hope that your experience with us will be an enjoyable one!
There is no place like The Old Country Market. As our visitors will tell you, it defies imitation and, in turn, inspires questions that, perhaps, begin with, “What if…?”.
