Arabbers

I first learned about arabbers in my community health class.  These street merchants, who were common in east coast cities, sell fruits and vegetables from a horse-drawn cart.  Today only a handful exist in Baltimore - I actually saw one the other day walking to my car after class.  

They were first seen in the late 19th Century and after the Civil War many African American men began arabbing.  Produce would come in from the ships and brought to local stables.  During WWII almost all the arabbers were African Americans, as white laborers moved to the factory.  Due to changing times (supermarkets, the close of public stables, zoning/vending regulations), the profession started to die out.

Today less than a dozen work in Baltimore, but their society is working to renovate and promote the preservation of their stables.  The majority of arabbers bring fresh produce to communities who are living in food deserts.  Each arabber has their own holler which helps to bring out customers to their carts; the jingling bells and bright colors also do not hurt.