Bushwick Commission and Dublin Farms Celebrate 150 Years of Virginia-Grown Potatoes with Special 250th American Birthday Event

Dublin Farms in Horntown is being featured in Bushwick Commission’s annual Virginia Grown potato promotion with Walmart.

Bushwick Commission announced the launch of the promotion on July 6, highlighting premium Virginia-grown potatoes produced at Dublin Farms. The annual campaign includes special product packaging, digital advertising, and social media support.

This year’s promotion carries added significance as it coincides with America’s upcoming 250th birthday and Dublin Farms’ 150th anniversary. Dublin Farms has been operated by the Hickman family since 1876.

The commemorative event at Dublin Farms is expected to bring together representatives from agriculture, higher education, retail, and government. Federal and state lawmakers, local district representatives, officials from the Virginia Department of Agriculture, the local Chamber of Commerce, and leaders from Virginia Tech are scheduled to attend. Representatives from Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and the Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center are also expected to take part.

Ken Gray of Bushwick Commission said the annual promotion with Walmart is designed to highlight local agriculture.

“We are thrilled to bring everyone together for this milestone celebration,” Gray said. “This annual promotion with Walmart has always been about highlighting the best of local agriculture, and tying it into America’s 250th anniversary makes this year truly special.”

The event will include remarks from Bushwick Commission, Dublin Farms, and government officials, followed by an educational farm tour and photo opportunities. Chef Jeff Landry is also scheduled to prepare custom dishes featuring Dublin Farms potatoes.

Mark Hickman of Dublin Farms said the family is proud to showcase its harvest and farming legacy.

“Our family has been farming this land since 1876, and we are proud to showcase our harvest on this stage,” Hickman said. “Partnering with Bushwick and Walmart allows us to keep local agriculture thriving while celebrating the rich history of our community.”

Walmart Regional Vice President Eddie Bostic said the company is proud to support local growers and bring high-quality produce to customers.

The promotion highlights the partnership between Bushwick Commission, Dublin Farms, and Walmart, while also recognizing the role of Eastern Shore agriculture in regional food production and American farming history.