The Thomas Hometown Harvest Story
A Decades Deep Tradition
Our Story
In 1875, William “Doc” Thomas left his family farm and opened a small grocery and candy store in What Cheer, Iowa — a story you can still read in the original newspaper archives. A bee sting had left him partially disabled, but it never dimmed his spirit. With a crutch under one arm and a smile on his face, Doc served the town for decades — selling peanuts, popcorn, and penny candy, and becoming a trusted fixture in the community.
The store stayed in the family for generations, run by descendants who carried on Doc’s tradition of hard work, fairness, and neighborly care. Through floods, fires, and changes in the town itself, the Thomas name remained tied to serving What Cheer with honesty and heart.
Today, Andy and Nikki Thomas are writing the next chapter. With Thomas Hometown Harvest, they’ve traded the candy counter for mums, pumpkins, and honey from their own bees — a fitting nod to the insect that first shaped Doc’s life. While the offerings have changed, the values haven’t. Every sale, whether from a roadside stand or a school fundraiser, continues the Thomas legacy of community, quality, and care.
Our Values
Honesty and Fair
Pricing
Larger, healthier products at prices families can afford.
Community
First
Supporting local schools, small businesses, and fundraisers.
Quality Grown with
Care
Every bloom, pumpkin, and jar of honey nurtured on our own land.
Stay Connected and Get Involved
Want to know when mums are in full bloom, pumpkins are fresh from the field, or honey is ready to bottle? Follow us on social media for tips, behind-the-scenes updates, and early access to seasonal sales.
Thinking about running a school or community fundraiser? We’d love to work with you to help your cause bloom.