Meet the Family

The People

Agrarian Roots That Date Back to the 1860s

We owe our way of life in large part to the generations that came before us. Our family is fortunate enough to have agrarian roots all the way back to those who ventured to the new world in the 1860’s. Today’s crew shares the same passion with modern challenges. 

Our Story

Don started farming in high school with 10 acres and joined the farm full-time after college. He earned a BS from Purdue University’s School of Agriculture in 2003 and a MBA from Colorado State in 2016. He oversees planting, harvesting and selection of ag inputs as well as daily work with the cow herd. He is hardworking, takes initiative, is always looking for a better way, charismatic, caring, and loves the land.Jennifer graduated from Franklin College in 2008 with a math education degree and a master's degree from Indiana Wesleyan. She taught HS math for five years before staying home with our first child. When she isn’t busy with the workings of four small children at home, she can be found helping at the farm with cattle, planting crops or running harvest equipment. She keeps everyone in our family on track and looks good doing it! Jennifer takes care of all customer contact and fulfills orders. Jennifer has a huge heart for her family and friends, loves to work out daily, and never backs down from a challenge.Eugene is Don’s dad. At 82 years young, he is at the farm daily to help wherever needed. He tracks markets, grinds corn and delivers feed rations. Eugene has been feeding cattle now for 72 years since he bought his first 2 head at age 10. He can be found on his Kubota ATV all around the farm, having snacks with the grand kids or playing Euchre with his various card groups.

The Place

Nestled between the busy cities of Indianapolis and Louisville, is Vallonia, IN. Vallon or “little valley” was the name given by the French who set up a trading post here in the late 1700’s. Forested hills rise up on the east, west and south sides of our rural community where agriculture is a mainstay. A variety of products are found growing here on our naturally rolling and sandy soils from vegetables and melons to grains, hay and cattle. The home place, as we call it, was bought by my grandpa, Louis Shoemaker in 1952. The property was in need of attention with many deteriorating buildings left behind from previous use. Luckily, he had six children to help with the restoration! Within a few years, a new cattle barn, corn crib and home were erected on the property. As the farm grew, silos and a machinery shed were later added.