Pike Place Market in downtown Seattle was established in 1907 to connect citizens and farmers after booming population growth and sharply rising produce prices in 1906-1907 led to public outcry over wholesalers inflating food costs. Proposed by Seattle City Councilman Thomas Revelle as a place where farmers could sell directly to the public, the market opened on August 17, 1907, and its first farmer sold out within minutes. The market continues its "Meet the Producer" tradition through a year-round farmers market, owner-operated bakeries, fish markets, butcher shops, produce stands, specialty food stores, and a crafts market. Within its nine-acre historic district are more than 200 craftspeople, unique shops and services, low-income housing, and four social service agencies, making it a community within downtown Seattle.