Windes family farm receives Century Farm dedication
By Adriana Keeton, [email protected]
October 9, 2024
The Windes family farm, in Washburn, recently received Missouri Century Farm dedication at this year’s Barry County MU Extension annual picnic. Shown above is Norma Windes (holding a picture of Bob Windes), Heather Windes, Bob Windes and Rhonda Windes.
The Windes family farm in Washburn, is more than just a piece of land; it’s a living testament to over a century of hard work, perseverance, and a deep-rooted connection to the land. Established in 1882 by Rob Windes' great-great-grandfather, the farm has evolved over generations from row crops to cattle. Today, it proudly holds the distinction of being recognized as a Century Farm, an honor bestowed upon farms that have remained within the same family for 100 years or more. For Rob Windes, this recognition is deeply personal. “I feel proud for all the sacrifices that were made by my great-great-grandparents,” he says. His father, who passed away in April, was a key figure in continuing the farm's operations, and Rob’s pride is compounded by the sense of responsibility he now bears. “It's all the hard work,” he adds, reflecting on the long line of family members who poured their lives into the farm to keep it going. The story of the Windes farm begins with Rob’s great-great-grandfather, who, like many pioneers of his time, had a vision of building a future through the land. In 1882, he established the farm, growing row crops and contributing to the local agricultural economy. He even was chronicled for his experiences in a book titled Orphan Hero, sharing stories about the farm and the family’s enduring spirit. Over time, the farm adapted to changing agricultural practices, moving from row crops to focusing on cattle, which remains the farm’s primary operation today. The shift in farming focus reflects the kind of adaptability that has kept the Windes farm alive for more than a century. But even with these changes, the core values of the family have remained the same: hard work, resilience, and a deep respect for the land. Farming in the 21st century is drastically different from the way it was when Rob's great-great-grandfather first broke ground in Washburn. Over the years, Rob Windes has witnessed firsthand the dramatic transformations that have taken place in agriculture. “The biggest changes have been in equipment, technology, and fertilizer,” Rob notes. From the advent of tractors and mechanical harvesters to modern GPS systems and precision agriculture, these innovations have made farming more efficient but also more complex. But it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Rob recalls the challenges his family faced during the economic turmoil of the early 1980s when interest rates soared to 18-19%. “That was the roughest spot,” he says, describing a period when many farmers struggled to stay afloat. But the Windes family persevered, a testament to their resourcefulness and determination to keep the farm running through the toughest of times. Over the years, farming has taught Rob many valuable lessons, which he hopes to pass down to future generations. Perhaps the most important of these is the need for careful financial planning. “Save back for the bad years,” he advises, echoing the wisdom passed down through generations of farmers who understand that success in agriculture is often cyclical. Seasons of plenty can quickly be followed by droughts, low market prices, or unexpected hardships, and only those who are prepared can weather the storm. Another key lesson is the dedication required to run a successful farm. “You have to commit to long hours,” Rob emphasizes. “It’s not an 8-5 job. You’re on call 24/7, and everything must be done—it can’t be put off.” Farming, he points out, is a way of life that demands passion, perseverance, and an unyielding work ethic. The Windes farm has been a fixture in the Washburn community for generations, contributing not just to the local economy but also to the town’s agricultural heritage. Rob is proud of the relationships his family has built over the years, particularly with local businesses and organizations. These partnerships, he believes, have helped the farm thrive and continue to play a role in the region's economic and social fabric. For Rob, Century Farms like his are crucial in preserving the history and culture of rural America. “They connect us to our past and remind us of the importance of family, hard work, and tradition,” he says. As Rob looks to the future, his hope is simple: to keep the farm in the family. “Hang on and take care,” he says, expressing his desire to see future generations continue the work started by his great-great-grandfather more than a century ago. The challenges are great, but so too is the reward of sustaining a legacy that has endured for over 100 years. To young farmers or those considering entering the profession, Rob offers this advice: “Be ready for the long hours and understand that farming is a full-time commitment. You have to be dedicated because it’s not something you can walk away from.” For those willing to embrace the challenges, farming can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling ways of life. The Windes family farm stands as a living testament to the power of perseverance, family, and an unwavering commitment to the land—a legacy that will hopefully continue for generations to come.