Plain Foods Co-op Records (S4950)

1980-1991 

Historical Sketch

The Plain Foods Co-op [Fargo, North Dakota] began in 1974 as a buying club, its members especially interested in organic foods and bulk samples. The club gradually evolved into a co-op business, “owned and operated by its customers,” for an individual had to be a member of the Co-op in order to purchase food at the store. Through the years, the Co-op published a newsletter and expanded its operations, although the membership still remained fairly small. 

Collection Description

The collection contains the Co-op’s constitution and by-laws, brochures and other advertising, membership information, meeting minutes, work schedules, and issues of the Co-op newsletter. All material is in good condition. 

Inventory

Box 1

  • Brochures and Advertising
  • Common Health Warehouse Cooperative Association Handbook. 1981
  • Constitution/By-Laws/Articles. 1988
  • Co-op
    • Management and Worker Schedule. 1987-
    • Restaurant Meeting Minutes. 1988
     
  • Core and General Membership Meetings. 1981
  • Democratic Management Seminar. 1988
  • Food Policy Survey
  • Membership manuals
  • Miscellaneous
  • Plain Talk (Newsletter). 1980, 1986-