I wanted to throw out this question...perhaps Betamike or Zephon or Copper can answer...but anyone else can, too: While visiting the famous Martin Greer Candy Shop at Gateway, AR today with my wife and grandkids, I got into a conversation with his son, a college age student. His son said Martin Greer helped set up the original candy shop at SDC, known way back in the early days as "Copper Kettle Candies." I asked if he trained June Ward, who is the resident Master Craftsman at the candy shop today. He said he didn't know. So, Betamike, or any one else, ever heard of Martin Greer? What do you know about his role in the candy shop in the early days at SDC? I can tell you that Mr. Greer, a retired educator and artist, has been working in the candy business in Arkansas for decades, and his family owned and operated shop is a place a traveler must stop at when they are going from Northwest Arkansas to Eureka Springs. All candy is handmade. The family uses equipment that ranges in age from 70 years of age to about 150 years old. They still use copper kettles everyday, and use the marble slab to roll out candy onto. As far as I know, the Greer family are the only ones in Arkansas that still practice the old methods of candy making. They do a killer business, and the prices reflect it, too. (As they should) Two moderate sized sacks of candy for us today cost $55.00! Well worth it though, from time to time. I highly reccomend a stop at his shop.
