Missouri Neighbors

In 1919 Alfred Friend bought a farm in Dade County, Missouri, bordering Stockton Lake, from the Sloan family. It was just under a section of land, at 640 acres. At Alfred’s side during the purchase was his son, J.A. Friend. Together the two began to farm the bottom land. They raised cattle, hogs and row crops of corn, wheat and beans. Alfred lived in one house on the farm and J.A. in another house down the hill.

Ask any livestock producer and most will tell you that they are familiar with Hereford cattle. These red and white faced bovine are a fairly common sight in the Ozarks. Another less known breed of Hereford comes from the swine family; the Hereford hog. Hereford hogs are an attractive red and white heritage breed originally developed in the Show-Me state. Aside from their color pattern, these hogs are also known for their gentle dispositions.

"It's all about Cody,” is the philosophy Brian and Melissa Jacobs use on their Hawk Shadow Farms, located on the Wright-Douglas county line. Cody is Brian and Melissa's 4-year-old son and they are evolving their goat and cattle operation to meet his interests and safety. For example, Cody attended his first goat shows this year at the Ozark Empire and Missouri State Fairs. Melissa said that since Cody showed an interest in showing goats, they plan to cut back on their commercial herd and purchase more full-bloods.

Collecting is a hobby for Neil Breshears. Initially it didn’t seem to matter what he collected guns, knives or pocket watches. He can tell you with lots of pride when and where he acquired each piece. Neil is very sentimental and almost everything is symbolic of a piece of his past. Walking on his farm he will tell you that this came from his dairy farm, or that his dad had a tractor just like that one. The memories they give him are important to Neil.

Scott and Pam Powers believe in supporting local agriculture, and in the process, they're growing the best tasting broiler chickens and meat rabbits in Ozark County, Missouri. Their method is to use no additives or preservatives in raising their animals, and they do it all on their small acreage.