An extraordinary tradition at the Indiana State Fair has been captivating audiences for an impressive nine decades. A dedicated farmer from Tippecanoe County has been proudly presenting his prized Hereford cattle at the fair since the 1940s.
Reflecting on the many generations of Hereford cattle showcased at the Indiana State Fair, the farmer expressed his genuine enthusiasm for the tradition, even humorously appreciating the uniqueness of his passion.
Back in 1953, as a young boy, the farmer's Hereford calf named "Walter" secured the coveted Grand Champion 4-H Steer title at the State Fair. At that time, the competition primarily featured Shorthorns, Herefords, and Angus cattle. Nowadays, the junior show presents a diverse array of black-hided cattle with various breeds.
The farmer's association with the Indiana State Fair's cattle exhibition traces back an impressive 75 years. His journey of exhibiting Herefords has continued over the years, with his calf this year being the remarkable 13th continuous generation of Herefords bred and raised on his farm.
The lineage of Herefords originated in the 1950s when the farmer acquired the first animal that set the foundation for this remarkable line. Since then, all the cattle have been bred and owned by the farmer, an achievement that he considers a rare occurrence, requiring many elements to align perfectly.
Notably, the farmer's late brother also took part in showing cattle at the Indiana State Fair for many years. Despite his brother's passing at a young age, the farmer continues to honor his memory through Hunt Brothers Herefords.
Reflecting on the evolution of cattle showcasing over the years, the farmer fondly recalls the days when everything was bedded with straw, which, unfortunately, led to an itchy experience due to a straw mite infestation for a few years. However, the process has significantly improved since then.
As the farmer approaches his 84th birthday, he contemplates how many more years he will continue bringing his prized Hereford cattle to the State Fair. Despite the hard work and dedication required, his passion for the tradition remains strong, leaving the decision open for the future.
This milestone achievement of showcasing prize-winning Hereford cattle at the Indiana State Fair for over 70 years is a testament to the farmer's unwavering commitment to his craft, inspiring generations to come.
Photo Credit: Indiana State Fair
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle